Coast Community News 391

Photo: CCM Media

crowd watched the Mariners defeat Adelaide United in

Water rates are set to rise by just over 14 per cent on the Central Coast from July 1, with an average increase of $169 per annum predicted.

While Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart explained at the May 23 meeting that the rise was in keeping with the four-year determination handed down by IPART in 2022, community activists are not happy, claiming a continuing deterioration of services and a rise in water quality complaints.

Hart told the meeting that the rise comprised seven per cent as approved by IPART and a rise of just over seven per cent in the CPI (Consumer Price Index).

In addressing concerns raised by

speaker Norm Harris at the May 22 public forum, Director of Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said the determination of water, wastewater and stormwater drainage charges for 2023-24, which was subsequently adopted by Hart, was not a performance update, with that information to be provided in the Operational Plan in June.

However, he did point out that since July last year 20km of sewer mains have been upgraded and 5km of water mains replaced throughout the region. Continued page 3

The Central Coast Mariners are in the Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final after a glorious

win

May 20.

FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, LIKE ...

Twitter: @CoastComNews

YouTube: Central Coast Community News

Instagram: @centralcoast.news

Facebook: @coastcommunitynews

SEND US A STORY

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

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

CCN reserves the right to use, or

Pelican saved for the second time

The Peninsula’s “Pelican Lady”, Wendy Gillespie has returned a one-year-old pelican into the wild following four days of intensive care.

“This immature male pelican has had his fair share of near misses,” she said.

“He almost passed due to ingestion of algal toxin from a stormwater drain which Central Coast Council hasn’t remediated in 25 years.

“However, this wasn’t his first rescue.

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 Material that is offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.

Editor: Ross Barry, David Abrahams (Digital Editor)

Journalists: Terry Collins, Sue Murray

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Phone: (02) 4325 7369

Email to: editorial@centralcoastnews.net

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

ABOUT US

Central Coast Newspapers

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

CCN publishes the Coast Community News weekly with over 28,000 copies available via more than 250 distribution points all across the Central Coast.

Most stories can be viewed on coastcommunitynews. com.au

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

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

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

Ross Barry, Publisher

“When he was five months old I rescued him with a very large hook in his foot joint which had obviously been in situ for months.

“Infection and other damage required 21 days of medication and specialist veterinary care.

“I hadn’t seen him since he was released seven months ago and had recently been wondering about his progress.

“Then I saw him sick from the toxin in Brisbane Water while surveying for injured and sick pelicans in my kayak.”

Gillespie said she had easily recognised him as the same pelican she had treated as a juvenile.

“He has very distinct colouring and is possibly the quietest and most gentle male pelican I’ve handled in my 25 years of rescues,” she said.

“Every pelican is unique in character and physical features just like humans.

“Apart from being fully debilitated from ‘blue green algal toxin’ he also had another light infection in the same foot joint first treated (when he was five months old) due to a second hook injury.

“Most foot and leg injuries in pelicans are due to paddling through fishing tackle and discarded fishing gear.

“Both health issues were sorted in his four-day stay and

when he was released he was greeted on the water by other young pelicans.”

Gillespie said her four-year recreational fishing study, soon to be published, flagged that young male pelicans were at higher risk from repeated recreational fishing interaction as compared to their female counterparts.

“They may not have a fast car or a jetski, but at year one their hormones kick into full gear with risk-taking a major issue that makes them more vulnerable to fishing interaction injuries,” she said.

“If you’d like to assist me with my self-funded rescue and research operations on the Peninsula and across the Central Coast, please contact me at pelicanladywoywoy@ gmail.com or at pelicanrescueandresearch@ gmail.com.

“My contact number to report any sick or injured pelicans is 0458 975 498.”

Lifeline needs more volunteers

In celebration of National Volunteering Week (May 15-21), Lifeline Central Coast has shone the light on the critical role its volunteers play in giving hope and connection to people in crisis across the region and calling for more people to join.

CEO Robert Sams said volunteers were central to the way Lifeline offered its crisis support, mental health counselling and other suicide prevention and suicide bereavement support services.

Lifeline has volunteers serving as local 13 11 14 crisis supporters, supporting its 11 op-shops and helping at fundraising and community events.

Graeme Wade has been a crisis supporter for more than 10 years.

The 63-year-old Berkeley Vale resident works full-time and his wife has also volunteered as a crisis supporter.

A passionate bushwalker, in 2012 he walked the Kokoda Track as a fundraiser for Lifeline.

Wade was motivated to do so after a work colleague took his own life.

“I decided then that I needed the skills to know how to approach someone who I saw was possibly struggling and to never be in the situation again where I wasn’t confident in reaching out and asking if they needed help,” he said.

Wade said being a crisis

supporter had taught him that listening was a powerful way to help someone who was going through difficult challenges in their life.

“We all walk with a limp,” he said.

“The wonderful thing about Lifeline is that we don’t try to provide the answers to every caller’s problem.

“To just be with someone is very special; having empathy is important.”

Wade said a quote from a book he was reading – Kindness by Kath Koschel – summed up his motivation to serve: “Not only does practising kindness help others, it also makes you feel really bloody good.”

He said a caller to 13 11 14 recently said to him, ‘you saved my life tonight’.”

“That was pretty special feedback,” Wade said.

Sams said the theme of National Volunteer Week was

“The Change Makers”.

“Our volunteers, like Graeme, certainly are that; helping to change lives and have someone there for people in the darkest moments,” he said.

“We urgently need more volunteers to help us, particularly as 13 11 14 crisis supporters where we are struggling to answer every call for help amid a rising number of calls.”

Sams said other charities and community and sporting clubs were facing issues because of a declining number of volunteers, exacerbated during the COVID 19 pandemic.

“Understandably, we lost some volunteers during COVID lockdowns and many people have other commitments or are working to stay ahead of rising cost of living pressures,” he said.

“If people are able to volunteer, even for a few hours, we’d love to hear from them.

Source: Wendy Gillespie

“It is a great way to give back and meet new people.

“We are very flexible in fitting people’s volunteering with us around their other work and family commitments.”

“Volunteering to become a crisis supporter does involve a serious time commitment and up to 170 hours of training.

“A shop volunteer makes a big difference because their support means more of our shop proceeds can go to funding local services.”

People wishing to find out more about volunteering with Lifeline should call 1300 152 854 or visit centralcoast.lifeline. org.au/get-involved.

National Volunteer Week started in 1989 and is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering.

Nine Australians die every day by suicide and more than 65,000 Australians make a suicide attempt each year.

Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44.

Calls to Lifeline are up 25 per cent since the start of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Lifeline offers 24 hour crisis support- phone 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online at www.lifeline.org.au.

For free Lifeline counselling appointment bookings call 1300 152 854 or email centralcoast.lifeline.org.au.

Wendy Gillespie returns the rehabilitated pelican into the wild

Source: Lifeline Central Coast

Graeme Webb walked the Kokoda Track as a fundraiser for Lifeline

Community advocates slam new public forum format

Community advocates have joined forces to slam Central Coast Council’s new trial format for its monthly public forums –holding them the day before each general meeting rather than immediately prior to the meeting itself.

The three-month trial of the new system kicked off this week, with one lone speaker registering to talk at the public forum on Monday, May 22, ahead of the May 23 meeting.

Norm Harris addressed the forum on the matter of water rates and has joined with seven other regular speakers to condemn the trial format, which Council says is intended to provide more time for public speakers and for staff to respond to matters raised at each forum before the following night’s meeting.

The eight activists, who have provided 12 of the 14 speeches given at the last three public forum meetings, have issued a joint statement criticising the

move.

They have spoken on a wide range of community topics and say they represent a diverse range of opinion and community interests.

Activists who have endorsed the joint statement are Norm Harris, Kate Mason, Kevin Brooks, Matthew Wells, Mark Ellis, Nicky Prescott, Joy Cooper and Matthew Low.

They say they have come together to “say enough is enough with the continuing erosion of democratic participation”.

The trial format was announced by Administrator Rik Hart at the April 26 meeting without any notice on the agenda and with no report, no recommendation and no formal resolution.

The joint statement says the change is designed to benefit the Council bureaucracy and not the local community and expresses wider concerns about the impact of “undemocratic local

government”on the community.

It says the main purpose of the move is to reduce the impact of the public forum on meetings.

“With local democracy suspended, the public forum held immediately before each Council meeting has provided a rare opportunity for residents to hold Council senior management accountable and seek to influence Council decisions,” the statement says.

“Now, Council senior managers want to undermine the effectiveness of the forum

by separating it from the Council meeting.

“They want the forum to be held on a separate day.

“Residents will have to attend two meetings rather than one, and the process will cost more.

“Council managers will also control the public narrative as their words will be the only words heard and reported on the night of the Council meeting.”

The statement says that in recent months, forum speakers have been critical that Council services continue to deteriorate despite massive rate hikes and

asset sales.

“In response, the Administrator and Council senior managers have at times appeared not across the detail of their own reports or briefs,” it says.

“That is why they want an extra 24 hours to respond to constructive criticism with Council spin.

“Rather than seeking to marginalise constructive public scrutiny, they should use it as a spur to improve performance.”

The statement criticises Council claims that the new format will possibly allow speakers to address items not on the next night’s agenda.

This was previously allowed but abolished by Hart himself in February, 2022, it says.

“Five-minute speeches have also been allowed in the past before being reduced to three minutes by Council,” it says.

“This shows that the only real purpose of the ‘trial’ is to reduce the impact of the forum by separating it from the

Council meeting.”

The statement says the trial is non-compliant with Council policy, not having been approved by formal resolution, and with the Public Forum Policy, which states that any forum should be held on the same day as the Council meeting.

“When those who govern us believe their own policies do not apply to them, this is a slippery slope towards arbitrary government,” it says.

“Sadly, this is all too common where democracy is absent.”

The activists claim community input to decision making is being increasingly marginalised and the absence of public accountability is leading to arbitrary decision making, with no effective checks and balances.

They say they will be seeking a meeting with Minister for the Central Coast David Harris and other State MPs to discuss their concerns.

Terry Collins

Concerns over anti-social behaviour at Lake Haven library

Central Coast Council will look at all options in relation to Lake Haven Library, including adjusted opening hours, as escalating anti-social behaviour rings alarm bells.

“I am increasingly concerned by the ongoing public disturbances outside Lake Haven Library that are risking the safety of community members and Council staff,” Administrator Rik Hart said.

“About two weeks ago, staff had to close the library early, due to a significant public safety incident outside the front door of the library involving around 40 people.

“A fight broke out and Council staff acted immediately as they helped to shelter a number of people in the library during this incident.

“Thank you to the security guards who helped contain the incident and supported library staff and members of the public to safely leave the library via an alternative exit.”

Hart said the incident was just one of 34 which have occurred over the past 12 months, with

70 per cent of incidents involving local high school students.

“Council staff have reported that these incidents are escalating and often move from outside the library to inside the library,” he said.

“Council has a number of measures in place to manage safety of staff and visitors to Lake Haven library.

“These include ongoing safety training for staff, daily security guard patrols from 1pm, close liaison with the surrounding shopping centres,

schools, local community and the police and public transport authorities.”

Hart said Council was working with the local bus companies to trial moving the existing bus stop at the entrance of the library further around the bus exchange, with disturbances

Water rates set to rise on July 1

Continued from page 1

He said next year’s $80M capital works program would see upgrades of treatment plants at Mardi, Charmhaven and Gwandalan and that current water and sewer upgrades currently underway to “future proof” Gosford were grant funded and not financed by Council.

He said in keeping with Council’s plan to ensure adequate water supply until 2050, $2M of a $9M water security allocation as

determined by IPART over four years would be spent in the next financial year on water security measures.

Community activist Kevin Brooks said the 14.13 per cent hike in rates, which follows a 17 per cent rise last July, was unwelcome news for ratepayers already facing cost of living pressures.

“Despite these massive rate hikes, Council services continue to deteriorate,” he said.

“At the same meeting where

the latest increase was approved, Council reported some shocking performance results.

“Complaints about water quality are running 28 per cent above target with more than one in 100 households making formal complaints.

“And 14.6 properties per 100 have faced unplanned service interruptions – 27 per cent worse than target.

“These are sharp declines in performance despite this year’s rate hike.”

Brooks said the Central Coast remained the lowest ranked water utility in IPART’s customer satisfaction survey published this month.

“Overall satisfaction has declined 10 per cent from an already low base since Rik Hart was appointed Administrator and David Farmer CEO,” he said.

“This shows that throwing more ratepayers’ money at poorly managed and inefficient organisations doesn’t necessarily lead to improved

performance.”

Brooks said IPART had made it clear in its four-year determination that the increase was approved so it could lead to improved services.

“There has been no improvement in Central Coast overall satisfaction since the water rate took effect in July 2022,” he said.

“Administrator Rik Hart and CEO David Farmer have still not addressed Council’s past and continuing performance issues caused by poor management,

often centred on people congregating at the bus stop.

“All these measures are a necessary response to ensure the safety of staff and visitors, however, they are at a cost to the community,” he said.

“It goes without saying that Council could otherwise be spending this money to improve its services to the community.

“I have asked Council’s CEO to look at all options in relation to Lake Haven Library, including adjusted opening hours.

“As this is a serious matter, nothing is off the table and although relocating or temporarily removing services is a last resort, safety is paramount for staff and library visitors.”

Source: Central Coast Council Administrator

bad culture, low productivity and inefficiency.

“Our community is fed up with paying higher rates for worse services.

“It is time to restore local democracy so that Council senior managers are accountable for their performance and responsive to the community they are supposed to serve.”

Terry Collins

Kevin Brooks is one of the endorsees of the joint statement

Norm Harris was the only speaker to register for the May 22 public forum

Photo: Central Coast Council Watch

Premier reaffirms funds for Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary

NSW Premier Chris Minns reaffirmed a $50,000 boost for Calga’s Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary during a visit to the Central Coast recently.

The government pledged the money prior to this year’s State election in support of the sanctuary’s work to rehabilitate rescued wildlife.

The money will go towards additional fencing, work and equipment to better protect animals on site and accelerate recovery of degraded areas.

The proposed program of work at the Sanctuary has been guided by the advice of ecologists, horticulturists, and the NSW Local Land Services (Greater Sydney) team.

The Calga Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 2005 in co-operation with private landowner Tassin Barnard and protects almost 69ha of private natural land. It is a natural fenced

environment where Australian animals move freely and

visitors can walk among the flora and fauna.

The sanctuary works cooperatively with registered regional species management programs, licensed wildlife rescuers and government agencies.

Minns met with the team to learn more about the sanctuary and how the government’s support could help.

“The work that Calga Wildlife Walkabout Sanctuary does to provide safe, lifelong care for rescued wildlife is irreplaceable,” he said.

“This sanctuary provides a safe home for those rescued animals that cannot be rereleased and has breeding and rehabilitation programs for endangered species for future release.

“Those native animals that

Safety upgrade for Ourimbah interchange

A major project to improve safety at the Ourimbah M1 interchange is now underway and expected to be completed by Novembers.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said the NSW Government was providing $5.2M from its Network Efficiency Program to provide a range of improvements at the site.

“Safety is the NSW Government’s top priority, and this work will improve safety for about 30,000 motorists who use the interchange daily,” Aitchison said.

“We are committed to ensuring every motorist and passenger experiences smoother and safer journeys

and makes it home safely to their loved ones.

“This project will also provide a welcome boost to the local economy by supporting up to 50 direct and indirect jobs during construction.”

Member for the Entrance David Mehan said many residents used the M1 to get to and from work and would welcome the safety upgrade.

The work involves widening the southbound and northbound exit ramps, installing signals at the western roundabout, line marking, asphalting, installing safety barriers and removable kerb, vegetation removal, utility and pavement drainage adjustments and other associated works.

It will also involve concrete grooving, which is a proven

method to reduce noise coming from the road surface.

Due to the large volume of traffic passing through the interchange, most work will take place when traffic volumes are reduced, from 7pm-5am up to seven days a week.

Some work will also take place from 7am to 6pm from Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays, weather permitting.

There will be some traffic changes to ensure the work zone is safe.

Motorists should follow the directions of all signs and traffic control.

Short-term lane closures and traffic control will be in place for some construction activities, which will result in minor

are so linked to our national identity – koalas, bilbies, Tasmanian devils, wallabies –they all have a home here, and the sanctuary itself is a wellloved Central Coast landmark.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, who accompanied Minns on the visit, said the investment would ensure that the facility could expand its capacity and improve its habitat.

“Ultimately, we would love to see the koalas roaming free within the 32ha of the park,” she said.

“This is just the start of creating a sanctuary that will continue to provide education, conservation and protection of our native animals right here on the Central Coast.”

Source: NSW Government

delays to traffic flow at the interchange, on the M1 Pacific Motorway, the Pacific Hwy and Burns Rd.

Lane closures are planned outside of peak periods to minimise impacts and access to the Ourimbah Rest Area will be maintained at all times, although four parking spaces will be closed during construction.

Traffic control and a 40km/h speed limit will be in place on the southbound and northbound exit ramps during work hours and may affect travel times.

The work is expected to be completed by November, weather permitting.

Alysse Mackay

Premier Chris Minns and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch take a tour of the park with owner Tassin Barnard

Source: NSW Government

A map showing the works

The region’s commuters are welcoming an announcement that the State Government will accept all 12 recommendations made by the Sydney Trains Review aimed at streamlining the rail service in and around Sydney, including the Central Coast line.

Passengers frustrated by ongoing interruptions to services are hopeful that measures suggested by the Review will lead to a more resilient, reliable service.

The Review’s recently released interim report reveals a great many deep-seated problems with the way Sydney Trains is currently operating, the Government says.

Major backlogs in maintenance resulting from the 2017 timetable changes brought in by the former Liberal government have led to network incidents and ongoing inconvenience to passengers, resulting in “a fragile rail network that does not recover effectively from incidents when they occur”.

An ongoing operational maintenance backlog presents a serious challenge to restoring a reliable network and has

Relief in sight for frustrated commuters

caused numerous system failures.

On-time running is at an alltime low and train service cancellation is at an all-time high.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen has instructed the Acting Secretary of Transport for NSW and the Chief Executive of Sydney Trains to begin work on implementing the recommendations from the report immediately.

These will include: an expanded passenger-focused team that can respond more flexibly and rapidly to disruption; mapping out an urgent and large-scale program of works to tackle the five-year backlog of system maintenance; and engagement with the workforce during the procurement, design and construction of new rolling stock.

The Chief Executive of Sydney Trains will report directly to the Secretary of Transport for NSW (TfNSW) and be directly accountable to the Minister on critical issues and responsibility for the Standard Working Timetable will be transferred from TfNSW to Sydney Trains.

The timetable team will report to the Sydney Trains Chief

EVERYTHING MUSTGO

rail network.

RTBU NSW Secretary, Alex Claassens, said the union looked forward to liaising closely with the Government to map out the detail of how the recommendations can be implemented in practice.

“This review provides a roadmap for getting things back on track, which is crucial if we’re going to provide the commuters and rail workers of the state with the world-class transport system they deserve,” he said.

“One of the biggest failings of the previous government was that it neglected to consult with industry experts, including its workforce, on key transport decisions.

Executive to ensure independence and transparency and Sydney Trains and TfNSW will undertake an audit of recertifications and training for rail safety workers.

The Government will also look at options in the short term including: plans for upgrading customer communication technologies; the implementation of multi modal customer information screens; a crewing app that will allow

faster response times for crew during disruptions; and improved rapid incident response capability that will make it easier to get the right message to the right people at the right time.

Longer term solutions to be investigated include: how major projects and proposed upgrades consider the ongoing operation of the rail network when they are being designed and built; how to best modernise the existing rail

network to deliver a world class modern railway into the future; training staff to help make the railway work best for passengers; and shaping the 2024 timetable review to strike the right balance between delivering great passenger service and allowing time to keep it running reliably.

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW says if implemented correctly, the measures will go a long way towards improving the troubled

“We’re glad to see that the new government is keen not to make those same mistakes.” Claassens said measures such as tackling the five-year backlog of system maintenance and forming a team to rapidly respond to disruption and engagement during the procurement, design and construction of the new rolling stock were particularly important in getting rail system moving properly again.

Terry Collins

REDUCED REDUCED

REDUCED

The rail network has been plagued by major disruptions in recent years

Mingaletta says thanks to Indigenous Minister

Mingaletta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation at Umina Beach has presented Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, with a certificate of appreciation.

The certificate was delivered recently to Burney by Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at Parliament House in Canberra.

It recognises the Minister’s “enduring support” for Mingaletta.

Elder Aunty Robyn said Burney was well loved by the people of Mingaletta.

“Linda is always there with a helping hand; we really admire her as a strong First Nations woman and politician,” she said.

”We wish her all the best in progressing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament and constitutionally recognising First Nations people.”

Fellow Elder Aunty Di said Burney had been a great supporter of the organisation.

“Linda has seen us come a long way, and we are so proud of her,” she said, adding that Reid was a“great representative for our people”.

Reid said Burney had been a huge supporter of First Nations people living on the Central Coast.

“It was an honour to have been asked by the Elders at Mingaletta to present the Minister with a certificate of appreciation to recognise her

Help protect Umina school’s trees

Umina Beach Public School’s plan to provide shade and shelter for students and parents has been thwarted by vandals.

In 2020 parents from the school organised for 10 mature Banksia trees to be planted on Melbourne Ave to shade classrooms and offer shelter for parents during pick-up times.

The group of parents, with help from Club Umina, coordinated watering and maintenance of the trees throughout the school holidays to ensure the plants survived.

Community group Grow Urban Shade Trees (GUST) provided oversight and information to the parents on caring for the trees.

But the trees have been subject to constant acts of vandalism.

The local Men’s Shed provided tree guards to prevent destruction of the trees, but during the recent Easter school holidays they were once again damaged.

The school is now calling on the community to help protect the trees by providing signage, replacing the damaged trees or joining the group caring for the remaining plants.

Parent Kelly Sunartha, who has been involved in the project, said the school community was devastated.

“We are so saddened that after our school community had gone to so much effort to raise funds (and) plant and

provide ongoing water for the trees (that they) have been intentionally vandalised,” she said.

“We’d really love to see our larger community get behind the project to help raise the money to replant more trees as well as join us in caring for them.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the project demonstrated what a community could achieve when they got together.

“It is a fantastic initiative started by the school and everyone involved should be proud of what they have achieved,” she said.

“This community project is a fantastic opportunity for kids to be educated on the importance

of planting trees and how to care for our environment.

“I would encourage anyone in the area who is able to get involved and help the school keep these trees alive and protected.”

If you would like to get involved in the project contact GUST via email on gust@peg. org.au.

GUST is a local community environmental organisation which helps plant and water trees in order to build awareness around the benefits of urban trees, especially around reducing heat and increasing shade.

Exciting news on World Turtle Day

support for Mingaletta since it has operated in Umina Beach,” he said.

Mingaletta provides support to First Nations people living on the Central Coast through a range of services, programs, and activities in health, welfare, education, and culture.

It is also a centre for youth and family support, including people who are experiencing homelessness, people who have been displaced, or are at risk of family breakdown.

The organisation welcomes all people from across the Central Coast, and Australia.

To contact Mingaletta, call 4342 7515 or visit 6 Sydney Ave, Umina Beach.

Aussie Ark and the Australian Reptile Park have announced the first ever mating within their population of critically endangered Manning River turtles.

Appropriately, the announcement came on May 23, World Turtle Day.

Ten sexually mature adult

turtles are housed at Aussie Ark’s facility Conservation Ark at the Australian Reptile Park.

The cohort is nationally significant, as a precious insurance population safeguarding the species from extinction.

Aussie Ark first started the program five years ago, after conducting triage operations to

collect wild eggs and turtles to save them from drought and fire, mostly notably during the Black Summer fires of 2019.

As its name suggests, the species is only found in the Manning River and its tributaries.

The species has suffered steep decline and faces extinction without intervention,

mostly due to fox predation and the damage of their shoreline nests by cattle.

Australian Reptile Park Operations Manager Billy Collett managed the breeding program, pairing genetically suited females with males in large tanks.

Over the course of a month he was thrilled to witness, and

document, the courtship and breeding of multiple pairs.

“This is a massive historical moment for Aussie Ark,” Collett said.

“This is the first time we’ve seen breeding behaviour with our Manning River turtles.

“It is so exciting and I just can’t wait to see those eggs.”

Last October – in a world first

– Aussie Ark released 10 captive bred turtles back into the Manning River. Collett said this year’s successful breeding is another huge step for the program; it’s hoped even more turtles can one day be returned to their homeland.

Source: Australian Reptile Park

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid presents the certificate to Minister Linda Burney

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Operations Manager Billy Collett with one of Conservation Ark’s baby turtles

Manning River turtles are facing possible extinction

The vandalism has continued despite the placement of tree guards

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Residents of Woy Woy and beyond are invited to have their say on three options for a new concept for Pelican Park Woy Woy with construction set to be completed before June next year.

Built in 1999, the popular waterfront playspace has reached the end of its design life and was slated to be closed two years ago because of safety concerns.

It received a last-minute reprieve due to community backlash, with the new design ensuring the much-loved park will remain in use for many years to come.

Central Coast Council has now developed three design concepts which will be on display for 28 days with residents encouraged to have their say before more thorough concept design can be actioned during the next stage of the project.

A full design of the chosen concept will be exhibited to the public early next year.

Option one uses the existing playspace with a nature play theme and retains all existing

Have your say on new look for Pelican Park

vegetation but does not include rubberised soft fall.

Option two retains the existing pirate play theme with a reduced playspace area to comply with standards for play equipment fall zones, and to keep clear of existing tree roots.

Again, all vegetation is retained with this option.

Option three proposes the removal of one Swamp Cypress which will enable a larger playspace footprint with climbing, spinning and sculptural elements

Due to the larger playspace proposed and the removal of a tree, additional funding would need to be diverted from the Woy Woy Lions District playspace upgrade project to deliver this option.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services

Melanie Smith said the feedback received during initial consultation with the community in 2020 had informed the design concepts this time around.

“It was very clear to us during the community consultation period that Pelican Park is

highly valued by the people of the Peninsula, and the broader community,” she said.

“We listened and we understand that it’s a very important playspace for families in the peninsula, and this is why we have gone back to the drawing board to develop workable options for the site to be both safe and fun into the future especially around the issue of the tree roots.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the upgrade to Pelican Park was just one of many exciting projects happening across the Peninsula.

“Over the next 12 months our draft Operational Plan highlights a number of projects on the Peninsula due for completion,” he said.

“This includes consolidating our Woy Woy Masterplan, upgrading crucial infrastructure

and ensuring young children’s needs are being looked after here at Pelican Park and also at Lions Park.

“I would encourage residents to have their say during this consultation process and vote for the concept that they would like to see in further detail.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, who raised more than 6,000 signatures on a petition to save the park, is urging

community members to have their say.

“With NSW Labor committing $180,000 to Central Coast Council for the upgrade of Pelican Park, news of the commencement of community consultation is welcome,” she said.

“Pelican Park is an icon of the Woy Woy town centre, bringing together families and community members to enjoy our beautiful Brisbane Water environment.

“I have spoken to community members across the Gosford electorate and beyond who speak of generations of memories at this park, and I am thrilled that generations to come will continue to enjoy this shared community space.

“I look forward to working with Council to improve community spaces across the Central Coast.”

To view the Pelican Park Concept Designs and register your vote, go online to Your Voice Our Coast before 5pm on Friday, June 16.

Terry Collins

Federal Government goes to bat for veterans

Veterans and veterans’ organisations from across the Central Coast had the chance to meet with Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh, State Minister for Veterans David Harris and Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at a forum on May 12 at Wamberal’s Breakers Country Club.

A range of issues was discussed including better support for veterans in healthcare and mental health services, veterans’ payments, and the upgrading of IT systems used by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Keogh said supporting

veterans was a key priority for the Federal Government.

“Our government is committed to repairing the damage done by the former government’s under-funding and under-resourcing of the Department of Veterans Affairs,” he said.

“That has had real-world consequences for veterans.

“One of our top priorities is eliminating the claims backlog … to make sure veterans receive the services and supports they need and deserve.

“It was fantastic to meet with veterans from across the Central Coast to share what the 2023 Budget will mean for them.”

Reid said the forum was the start of regular meetings to be organised by his office.

“The Central Coast has one of

the highest proportion of veterans across all age groups compared with any other region in Australia,” he said.

“All levels of government, particularly the federal government, must ensure we are doing all we can to assist veterans following their service to our nation.

“I am pleased that the federal government has already increased the TPI Payment and invested $87M into improving the claims processing system, but continued focus is needed across veterans’ issues.”

Reid said it was “quite special” to have both State and Federal Ministers for Veterans’ Affairs attend the inaugural forum and provide advice.

“During my term, I plan on hosting regular veterans’ forums to hear directly from veterans and veterans’

organisations about the issues affecting them and how we can address them,” he said.

“Veterans’ support is an issue close to my heart, and I plan on doing all I can to improve the quality of life for our veterans on the Central Coast.”

Reid’s office is available to assist veterans on the Central Coast with any issues or concerns relating to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Contact the office by calling 4322 2400 or emailing Gordon. Reid.MP@aph.gov.au.

stand in –

• Making a Will • Challenging a Will or defending a Will from challenge

• Making a Power of Attorney and • Making an Appointment of Guardian

Pelican Park will have a new look next year

Source: Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with Federal Minister Matt Keogh and State Minister Davis Harris at the forum

Riding for the Disabled at Somersby has received a major boost through the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program ($7,500) and Volunteer Grants ($2,000). Funding will be used to upgrade fencing at the Somersby riding centre and to buy a heavy-duty outdoor setting for volunteers.

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said Riding for the Disabled is an outstanding community organisation as he presented the cheques recently.

Become a volunteer, urges Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is calling on residents to give up their time and volunteer, with National Volunteer Week being celebrated from May 15-21.

Aimed at recognising the crucial role of volunteers in supporting the community and encouraging people to start volunteering, the theme for this years national week is The Change Makers, emphasising that volunteers are change makers who take action to make the world a better place. Tesch said volunteering could provide an individual with many benefits.

“Volunteering allows people

to develop skills that can translate into their everyday life,” she said.

“I know for a lot of our community a friendly smile and a conversation can make their day.

“There are so many amazing local organisations that are solely volunteer-run – without them our community would be lost.”

Executive Officer of Volunteering Central Coast, Dianne Moy, said volunteering was a fantastic way to strengthen the local community.

“Volunteering provides a way to strengthen communities and community resilience,” she said.

Riding for Disabled gets major boost

“Riding for the Disabled has been operating at its current site since 2002 and has become a highly cherished community organisation on the Central Coast,” he said.

“The funding that has been provided by the Federal Government will assist the organisation to continue providing high-quality riding sessions for people living with disabilities.

“Between 100 and 130 students from local schools on the Central Coast visit the riding centre each week, including from Woy Woy Public School, Aspect School in Terrigal, Ettalong Beach Public School, and Narara Valley High School.

“The students get so much out of visiting and by riding horses.

“These sessions help students develop confidence, independence, and body strength.

“I congratulate Riding for the Disabled, and I look forward to coming back soon.”

Riding for the Disabled on the Central Coast President, Gaynor Hobart, said the organisation was always looking for community support.

“We rely on community, corporate and government

“It’s a way to come together.

“National Volunteer Week recognises that volunteers contribute and support our community.

“The Central Coast is an ageing community surrounded by beaches.

“That means that all surf clubs are manned by volunteers, and our aged care sector relies on volunteers.”

Those who are interested in volunteering are urged to contacting Volunteering Central Coast on 4329 7122 to go to volunteeringcentralcoast.org.au.

support to keep our centre operating,” she said.

“If people in the community would like to volunteer their time or donate, it is always appreciated.

“We welcome students through the week on Mondays to Wednesdays, and sessions are up to an hour long.”

To contact or support Riding for the Disabled on the Central Coast, call 4340 0388 or email rdacentralcoast@gmail.com.

Mangrove Mountain leads the way in energy efficiency

The Mangrove Mountain Hall is showing the region how it is done when it comes to energy efficiency.

After receiving a grant from the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program Round 7, the community hall was able to purchase and install a Tesla battery to store electricity generated by its rooftop solar panels.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said it was outstanding to see community halls embracing renewable energy and battery technology.

“I applaud the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Group; the decision to install solar panels and purchase a Tesla battery has meant that the hall is now energy efficient,” Reid said.

“Since the installation of the Tesla battery in August 2022, $3,000 has been saved in energy costs.

“The money saved can now be redirected to other areas of the hall including maintenance and other projects.”

Mangrove Mountain and Districts Group Vice President, Ryan Howard, said the Tesla

battery has cut out energy costs altogether.

“The Tesla battery has wiped the hall’s energy costs completely and it has meant that the hall is energy selfsufficient,” he said.

“The Tesla battery has a lifespan of up to 20 years and takes about four hours to charge.

“From one charge, the hall has electricity for basic appliances for up to a week.

“The hall can now also better service the surrounding communities during natural

disasters, by providing refuge and electricity when utilities have been lost.”

The Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program is an annual grant opportunity open to not-forprofit organisations to build infrastructure and acquire equipment.

For more information, contact Reid’s office on 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph. gov.au.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Poore ready to take on Sydney’s steepest hill run

52-year-old Anthony Poore of Gorokan is dusting off his sneakers for this year’s Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn and even though he hasn’t been in a fun run since the 1990s, he’s ready to tackle Sydney’s steepest hill run for the first time.

Every dollar raised from the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn on Sunday, May 28, will help to provide essential, and often

lifesaving, medical equipment and health initiatives to about 500 hospitals and health services right across Australia including Gosford Hospital and Wyong Hospital.

Poore will be running with his fellow Hobson Engineering colleagues from the Newcastle branch in the Build & Construction Industry Relay 4 x 105m event.

For the first time, Hobson

Engineering is a Tier 1 sponsor of the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn with five teams in the annual milestone event which has raised more than $31M to date in its 21-year history.

Created by Wallaby great and Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn Ambassador, Phil Kearns, the Balmoral Burn is 420m worth of burn.

There are more than 20 different race categories in this

year’s event, including the return of the Celebration Run.

Registrations can be made at www.balmoralburn.com.au to participate in this year’s event as an individual, family, school, sporting team, community group, with your pet, or as a corporate team.

The first race starts at 8.20am from Awaba St, Mosman.

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with Central Coast SES volunteers

Sue Murray Anthony Poore to run in the Balmoral Burn

Source:

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Ryan Howard inspect the Mangrove Mountain Community Hall Tesla battery

Source:

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with staff at Riding for the Disabled, Somersby

New Marine Rescue vessel arrives at Toukley base

A new vessel for Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes is now in active service after being put through its paces in a sea trial and training for senior crew and volunteers.

The new 6.3m walk-through console Naiad boat, Tuggerah Lakes 21 (TL 21), is powered by twin Suzuki 115hp outboard engines and is capable of reaching speeds of 38 knots.

Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Unit Commander Bob Sutton and senior crew members were thoroughly shown how to operate TL 21 before the boat was delivered to its new permanent home at Toukley on May 18.

Sutton said Marine Rescue volunteers at the Tuggerah Lakes unit were excited about adding the new vessel to the fleet.

“The new Naiad has performed exceptionally this afternoon, it has done a great job,” he said.

“It’s going to replace a 10-year-old vessel, a Cobia that we’ve had, so technology is a big thing, and this will be certainly well received by our

members and also the community.

“Upgraded navionics, reliability, safety for our members plus being able to get to whatever jobs we need to do in a faster manner and then being able to get people back to safety.”

Since October 2022, volunteers at Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes have

completed 53 rescue missions including five emergency responses.

Sutton said the new TL 21 was a versatile vessel with wide-ranging capability.

“Being a rescue vessel, it’s not very prescriptive about what sort of work you’ll be doing, but we’ll be doing the routine tows where vessels break down to medical emergencies, people in the

water, kayakers,” he said.

“These things happen during daylight and also at night so our members are always ready to respond and this vessel will certainly help in that respect.

“We get a variety of craft and you’ve got to be able to respond to all sorts of issues.

“The Tuggerah Lakes system is over 80sqkm of the three lakes and the rivers and we’ve

got to be able to reach all those areas and this new vessel will be able to get into shallower water than our current vessel, which is berthed down at The Entrance.”

TL 21 is fitted with a full Raymarine suite of maritime navigation equipment. It also comes with a quick catch system on the trailer which makes launch and

Major boost for Wyong palliative care unit

A $10,000 donation from in-home care provider Home Instead will help to create a sanctuary of serenity for terminally ill patients at Wyong Hospital.

This July, work is scheduled to begin on a new 12-bed palliative care unit, which will be called Elsie’s Project and be modelled on a similar facility which opened at Gosford Hospital in 2020.

Catering for people aged 18plus, and incorporating family accommodation, it will increase the number of palliative care beds on the Central Coast to 24.

Its features will include a beautiful courtyard garden, complete with a water feature, which will be funded by the donation.

It will feature a brass plaque dedicated to Home Instead’s clients.

To mark the start of Palliative Care Week, Home Instead Central Coast and Newcastle representatives handed over the $10,000 on Monday, May 22, to the Elsie’s Project organising committee.

Special guest was Mary Ann Vale, whose father Peter – a long-time Home Instead client alongside wife Judith – directly sparked the generous donation. “My father battled cancer for about 10 years, and towards the end, he was in Gosford

Hospital,” Vale said.

“He was then transferred to Elsie’s Project for the last few days of his life.

“When we had his funeral service, we asked those who attended to make a donation to Elsie’s Project, rather than giving flowers.

“A little while later I received a phone call from our Home Instead Client Care Manager –who had attended the funeral with some of Dad’s carers –letting us know they wanted to make the $10,000 donation in his memory, which I thought was really lovely.

“It is very, very generous of them, and very kind.”

Home Instead Central Coast and Newcastle business operations manager, Amee Dawson, highlighted the importance of the Wyong Elsie’s Project as the missing piece of the puzzle for local palliative care.

“At Home Instead, we offer palliative care services inhome, with a focus on maintaining dignity and quality of life for people in their final days, whether it’s helping an older gentleman with a daily shave or taking someone outside to enjoy a little

sunshine,” she said.

“However, it’s not always possible for people to stay in their home, which is why it’s so important for them to have somewhere like Elsie’s Project – somewhere that echoes our focus on personalised care to give people dignity and quality of life as their time draws to a close.”

That commitment to people and personality is something Mary Ann Vale has firsthand experience of.

“When my dad was moved from the actual hospital into palliative care, it was Melbourne

retrieval safer and easier by driving the boat straight on to the trailer; it latches directly on to the trailer once it is in position and it can be driven away.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said it was important the service turned over its vessels regularly.

“What’s really great when we turn over our vessels is watching the unit members get out there, get engaged with the new vessel, train and practise so that when the call comes, our crews are skilled up and can go and render that assistance,” he said.

“It’s important for both the volunteers, and the boaters that we support, that the vessels they have are fit for purpose and can render assistance when assistance is needed.”

TL 21 is one of 38 new rescue boats in Marine Rescue’s fleet modernisation program, funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6M investment in 2019 to support the vital, lifesaving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.

Sue Murray

Cup day,” she said.

“And he enjoyed his red wine and he always enjoyed the action of the race day.

“So we got permission from the doctors to give him a glass of red wine and watch the Cup, and he was actually carrying that glass of red wine as they transferred him into palliative care.

“He even won the little sweep we had between us, so he was very happy about that.”

Margaret Pearce, chair of the Elsie’s Project organising committing, welcomed the donation.

She said the project had only been able to get off the ground with the integral support of backers like Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, who was also there on the day.

The idea for how to best use the $10,000 donation sprang from her vision of an accessible courtyard retreat steeped in beauty, peace and serenity.

“I asked Home Instead if they wanted to cover the water feature for the garden and was delighted when they said yes,” she said.

“It will be a beautiful feature and will be something everyone will be able to see and enjoy.”

It’s something of which Vale thinks her dad would have approved.

“He was very much a thinking

sort of person,” she said.

“And I know he would have really enjoyed the idea of contemplation and the peacefulness of that environment.”

For more information on planning for end-of-life care at home, visit Home Instead’s information portal at homeinstead.com.au/ resources/dying-at-home/.

Elsie’s Project is a major project of the Lions Club of Wyoming East Gosford Centennial.

Since it opened in 2020, more than 1,000 patients have used Elsie’s Project at Gosford.

It runs at 100 per cent capacity for its 12 palliative care beds and there is a permanent waiting list.

To date, more than 40 per cent of its clients have been from the northern end of the Coast.

It is envisaged the addition of the facility at Wyong will freeup beds at Gosford to accept more patients from the southern end of the Coast.

The project committee is also working to identify and fund 20 Registered Nurses who can undergo training – at a cost of $5,000 per person – to be ready to work at the Wyong facility when it opens.

Source: Home Instead

The new TL21 and its crew ready for action

From left: Elsie’s Project volunteers Melissa Jones and Caroline Cruise, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, Home Instead Central Coast and Newcastle business operations manager Amee Dawson, Mary Ann Vale, Elsie’s Project organising committee chair Margaret Pearce and Home Instead Central Coast and Newcastle community engagement manager Samantha Farham

Most older shoppers/ pensioners do their shopping several days of the week just buying a few items as they need them.

Checkout was possible through the Express Lane of 15 items or less.

Coles Woy Woy, in its wisdom, has now withdrawn that

FORUM

checkout.

The only options available are either through the self-service checkouts, which many older people don’t like or find difficult to use, or one of the only two staffed checkouts and queue

with other shoppers with full trolleys.

Bring back express checkout Overpopulation affects global warming

I think it shows total disregard for some of the population particularly in an area with a large elderly community.

Coles has lost me as a customer.

Email, May 17 Eduard Schmalek, Woy Woy

I came out of a shop in West Gosford, went to my car and as I always do I immediately locked the door and opened the windows only a couple of inches.

Luckily I always do that because a man tapped on my

In response to G Cameron (CCN 388) – Urgent action needed on global warming.

FORUM

ways of living cleaner and greener for the environment while stamping out species of plants, animals and fish on an almost daily basis, just so we can house everyone.

our lack of roads, schools, housing infrastructure etc just to appease big companies which will flourish and pay taxes to governments and make them look good – all the while destroying the planet just a little bit more.

window.

I looked up and it was a weird looking scruffy guy on a bicycle.

He handed me a card through the crack of the window and it had on it “I’m deaf. Please give

me 4 dollars and I will give you this card and it shows you how to do sign language”.

I just said no and handed it back to him.

Is this the latest scam on the Central Coast?

Email, May 18 Mutcer Suna, Woy Woy

It’s time to fix those bridges

I wish to congratulate Geoff Mitchell of Kariong (CCN390).

FORUM Beware the latest scam FORUM

He put the hammer on the nail when he pointed out that our infrastructure is so inadequate.

Over the past 30 years I have been asking our political masters and public servants about widening the three bridges near the Gosford area. The three that I name are over

the rail at Donnison St, at Etna St and at Manns Rd at Narara.

If you have a four-lane road (Etna St), why is it that the bridges are only one lane?

All I seem to get (in response) is that there is no money for (the work).

Does that mean there is

money for the public servants’ pay packets and no money for people’s rights to have safety on our roads?

Since living here from the 1960s we have (seen) very little finance being allocated from both state and federal governments for our region.

May 18

Yes, most of your comments are correct – however you overlook the most important issue in relation to global warming (as indeed most countries have), which is overpopulation.

You cannot keep inventing

We let the ” skilled” migrants come in their millions despite

Banks need to be more responsible FORUM

Unfortunately my husband and I recently became another sad statistic when sophisticated scammers initiated a fraudulent bank transfer from our superannuation account with NAB.

This was bad enough, but the bank’s response was in our view wholly inadequate.

First, they allowed the scammers to increase our daily withdrawal limit from $2,500 to $40,000 without any secondary verification.

Second, and more alarmingly,

they allowed $38,000 to be transferred to a brand-new payee at Macquarie Bank without any additional verification or placing the transfer on a temporary 24hour hold.

After an opaque fraud investigation that lasted six weeks with no updates of any kind, the bank wrote to inform us that no money had been recovered.

That NAB is making billions in

profits while delivering such inadequate protection for the important savings of long-term customers is a scandal.

Given older retirees like us are being increasingly targeted by this kind of fraud, it’s high time banks took more responsibility for protecting their customers.

Perhaps the only solution is to make banks liable for fraud losses like they currently are in other countries such as the UK.

Email, May 22 Ingrid Tristram, Holgate

Email, May 23 Campbell Black, North Entrance

Email,

Robert Findley, Point Clare

Chittaway Point man jailed over child abuse material

A man from Chittaway Point has been jailed for covertly filming children with a hidden camera.

He also shared child abuse material which he downloaded and received.

The 42-year-old was sentenced to a maximum of nine years and 10 months imprisonment for producing, possessing and sharing child abuse material.

An investigation codenamed Operation Tick began in September 2021 when the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, which is led by Australian Federal Police, received a report from the United States National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about the upload of child abuse material by a Kik user.

The AFP linked the Chittaway Point man to the Kik account, with further investigation revealing the covert filming.

The man was arrested at his home on March 16, 2022, and

charged with multiple child abuse related offences.

He pleaded guilty to nine child abuse related offences in Gosford District Court on February 9, 2023 and faced the same Court for sentencing on May 10.

The man will be eligible for release on February 15, 2029.

Detective Inspector Jeremy Staunton said the AFP investigators were relentless in their pursuit of anyone sharing or accessing child exploitation and sexual abuse material.

He said strong international partnerships were imperative to identifying offenders sharing child abuse material online.

“The prevalence of online child abuse is vast and it requires a global response,” Det Insp Staunton said.

“The AFP works closely with its international law enforcement partners to identify child predators and protect children from further

Thefts reported at Woy Woy and Ettalong

Brisbane Water Police are calling on public assistance to identify the woman pictured.

Police say she could assist in their inquiries in relation to alleged incidents of stealing.

The thefts occurred at Woy Woy on Wednesday, May 10, and at Ettalong on Tuesday, May 16.

Anyone with information about these incidents, or the woman, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers by phoning 1800 333 000 or online at nsw. crimestoppers.com.au and quote the reference number

E77078245 and E77859515.

Source: Brisbane Water Police

harm.”

The Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) brings together specialist expertise and skills in a central hub, supporting investigations into online child sexual exploitation and developing prevention strategies focussed on creating

a safer online environment.

Anyone who has information about people involved in child abuse is urged to contact the ACCCE at www.accce.gov.au/ report

If you know abuse is happening right now, or a child is at risk, call police immediately on 000.

The AFP is also urging the public to help it solve cold case child abuse investigations through its Stop Child Abuse –Trace an Object initiative.

The smallest clue can often help solve a case and this initiative is centred on publishing non-confrontational images that can be seen in

child exploitation online material such as pieces of clothing or bedding.

Australian investigators believe the images are linked to victims in the Asia Pacific region, including Australia, and are calling on the community to view the images and make a report at www.accce.gov.au/ trace

If you or someone you know is impacted by child sexual abuse and online exploitation, support services are available at www.accce.gov.au/support

Research conducted by the ACCCE in 2020 revealed that only about half of parents talked to their children about online safety.

Advice and support for parents and carers about how they can help protect children online can be found at www. thinkuknow.or.au, an AFP-led education program designed to prevent online child sexual exploitation.

Sue Murray

Be on the lookout for Jarla Elliot

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Jarla Elliot, or recognises her, is advised to not approach her but immediately contact police.

Brisbane Water Police are appealing for public assistance to locate Elliot, who is wanted on two outstanding warrants.

Elliot, aged 24, is wanted for resist hinder police, behave in offensive manner in public place and stealing.

She is of Caucasian appearance, between 165cm to 170cm tall, of solid build and with light brown hair.

Elliot is known to frequent the Brisbane Water areas,

particularly the Peninsula. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

Source: Brisbane Water Police

Help police identify this woman

Jarla Elliot

The man was arrested last year at his Chittaway Point home

Now in its third year, the Words on the Waves Writers Festival is set to welcome an impressive gathering of Australia’s best authors and journalists to the region from Wednesday, May 31, to Monday, June 5.

Close to 75 speakers across 65 free and ticketed sessions will explore the theme The Mind Swims.

The theme implies a state of restless inquiry, of roving exploration, both real and metaphysical.

It speaks to transitions: the rise and fall of the tides; from one phase of life to the next; from one way of being to another and playfully gestures at the human urge to move and explore.

Some festival highlights will include Robert Drewe talking about his book Nimblefoot and founder of the Kindness Factory Kath Koschel sharing tales from her epic trip around Australia relying on the generosity of strangers.

Frontier cameleers are tracked by Ryan Butta (The Ballad of Abdul Wade) and we follow refugee advocate Om Dhungel’s journey From Bhutan to Blacktown.

Bestselling author Pip Williams (The Dictionary of Lost Words, One Italian Summer), humourist Todd Alexander and

Huge line-up at Words on the Waves Writers Festival

Rachael Mogan McIntosh (Pardon My French) are all on the program.

Attendees will shift from present to imagined futures with the work of Claire G. Coleman and Inga Simpson, and from one stage of life to the next with lauded poet Sarah Holland-Batt.

They will swim through Sydney’s underbelly with acclaimed playwright Louis Nowra and award-winning novelists Mandy Sayer and Fiona Kelly McGregor (Iris).

They will also ponder the human capacity for change despite immense hardship with Miles Franklin Awardwinning author of Bodies of Light, Jennifer Down.

Other speakers will include: actor Heather Mitchell on her superb new memoir, Everything and Nothing; author of Jasper Jones and Honeybee Craig Silvey; music lovers Bertie Blackman and Jonathan Seidler and Holly Throsby each sharing insights into their latest releases; Burruberongal writer of Benevolence Julie Janson taking attendees into the world of her Indigenous crime fiction; and thriller writers JP Pomare, Dinuka McKenzie and Petronella McGovern keeping everyone on the edge of their seats.

The opening address will be held at The Art House, Wyong

from 7pm to 8pm on Wednesday, May 31, featuring Claire G. Coleman (Enclave), Diana Reid (Love & Virtue) and Tracey Spicer (Man Made) speaking to the festival theme. Festival highlights will include: Story Club at Ocean Beach Surf Lifesaving Club from 7.30pm on Friday June 2; day and weekend passes for two full days of author talks on Saturday and Sunday, June 3 and 4 at Ocean Beach and Umina Beach surf clubs; a Professional Development Day In Partnership with FABER CADEMY and WRITING NSW at Jasmine Greens on Saturday, June 3; and a conversation with Craig Silvey at the Naughty Noodle Fun Haus from 8pm to 9pm on Saturday, June 3.

A Family Fun Day will be held at Everglades Woy Woy on Sunday, June 4, including storytelling, author presentations, book launches and roving performers.

Words on the Waves is a notfor-profit literary festival, the first of its kind for the Central Coast region.

Its mission is to deliver an immersive annual festival of stories, ideas and connection to enrich the cultural landscape of the region year-round.

For full festival details go to wordsonthewaves.com.au.

Source:

Words on the Waves Writers Festival

The festival will feature panel discussions as well as individual author talks, book launches and other activities

Two great travel books with a difference

Two great travel books with a difference by Central Coast authors will be officially launched on June 8 at Woy Woy Library as part of the Words on the Waves Writers Festival.

Sally Jane Smith’s first book, Unpacking for Greece, follows the author’s journey as she sets out for Europe with her mother’s 1978 travel diary in her pocket.

Searching for the wanderlust she had lost in a devastating overseas road accident, Smith ventures into the heart of the Mediterranean – wandering volatile landscapes, exploring historical sites, pairing books with places and savouring the tastes of Greece.

The book is written in an easy-to-read style with warmth and humour, fully engaging readers as they accompany Smith on her adventures as she realises it is possible for a clumsy, out-of-shape woman on a budget to experience a life-changing journey.

Readers will identify with Smith as she connects with her past, overcomes her fears and falls in love with life again, one olive at a time.

They will also want to jump on to the first plane headed for Greece.

Born in South Africa, Smith has lived on five continents and visited 33 countries, but she gives credit to Greece for turning her into a writer.

She completed a Varuna residency in 2018 and has published articles in Gulf News, Women’s Ink! and Brevity Blog.

Her creative non-fiction also appears in Itchy Feet: Tales of Travel and Adventure and the Newcastle Short Story Award Anthology 2022.

Smith moved to the Central Coast in early 2008 and has lived here ever since – first at Calga and then in Gosford.

“For the first two years I worked at Walkabout Wildlife Park, which gets a brief mention in Chapter Two of Unpacking for Greece,” she said.

“While I’m a bit of an introvert – like many writers – I’ve been involved in a number of community initiatives.

“I started a book club that was based at Reviver; I was a volunteer dog walker before the local rescue centre closed

down; I helped out with the iconic Poppy Project; and I attended drumming classes at The Rhythm Hut for years (although I’ve never been much good at it!)”

After being a volunteer at the inaugural Words on the Waves Writers Festival in Umina, Smith said she was extremely proud to have been selected for local author launch program.

Zoe Farrell’s delightful book Daph and Ern’s AdventuresFinding Yourself on the Road, follows a cranky old couple (the alter egos of Farrell and her

husband Aaron) as they travel around Australia in a campervan.

This is a hybrid book of standalone funny stories of life on the road in a campervan, interlaced with a journey of self-reflection and discovery.

The journey leads to eight simple steps of self-change that could have dramatic effects on one’s life and the world and concludes with an experiment to prove how individual happiness can have collective consequences.

“Everybody loves a funny

story, and this book is filled with those,” Farrell said.

“It also has an underlying message that happiness is our birthright and it is easy to find it when you know where to look … within.

“Daph and Ern are relatable characters; readers will see themselves in the stories, laugh and learn, and begin to reflect on their own lives.

“I want my readers to above all, have fun.

“I am hoping that, as the book progresses, readers will hear the truth in my words, which will ignite their own spiritual journey.

“My aim is to inspire, intrigue and give them hope.”

Farrell is a nurse and midwife, wife, mother, and grandmother who lives at Ourimbah with her husband Aaron and their fur baby Frank.

The two books will be launched at Woy Woy Library from 6.30pm to 7.30pm on Thursday, June 8. Book your spot at wordsonthe waves.com.au/book-launches -2023

Cute story about not-so-scary Wizard Shark

Keep a lookout for Bridget Acreman at the Words on Waves family fun day –she’ll be the one dressedup as a shark and she’ll be telling a lovable story about a not-so-scary family of sharks.

“I love sharks and wanted to show another side to these amazing creatures that wasn’t so scary,” Acreman said.

So, the illustrator from Woy Woy put together a simple, cute rhyming story called The Wizard Shark – a tale about two young sharks who visit the wizard shark (grandpa) and all the fun things they get up to.

“I illustrated everything digitally in photoshop and had so much fun personifying the shark characters and using a number of texture brushes to

create a fun and organic feel,” she said.

“And the story itself is designed to be a quick and fun read that everyone can enjoy.”

This is Acreman’s first children’s book – a product of the COVID lockdown era.

“As an illustrator who has always wanted to write and illustrate my own books, COVID gave me the push to write, illustrate and then self-publish The Wizard Shark when I had a lot of spare time in lockdown,” she said.

“Getting traditionally published is difficult so I wanted to just bite the bullet and do it myself.

“I also really wanted to work on a book from start to finish and teach myself the main

fundamentals of the design and set-up process.

“I learnt so much about book design … I worked on it for almost a year on top of my fulltime job.

“When I finally got the printed proof from the printer I was so excited to see all my hard work in its physical book form.

“Self-publishing is really hard work as you have to do all the marketing yourself, but it’s also very rewarding.”

Acreman said there has been much good feedback about The Wizard Shark and people are loving it.

“From this project I have gotten a number of other children’s book jobs and have loved being able to illustrate and bring other people’s

amazing stories to life through beautifully coloured illustrations,” she said.

“Children’s illustrations are my happy place and I’m so excited to continue growing and expanding my skill set and continue creating awesome books.”

Acreman and her book The Wizard Shark will be one of the highlights of the Words on Waves family fun day to be held on Sunday, June 4, at the Everglades Country Club, 9 Dunban Rd, Woy Woy.

The full program and venues for the Words on Waves Writers Festival, from Wednesday, May 31, to Monday, June 5, is available online at https:// wordsonthewaves.com.au/.

Sue Murray

Terry Collins

Sally Jane Smith with her book Unpacking for Greece Zoe Farrell with her book Daph and Ern’s Adventures- Finding Yourself on the Road

Woy Woy illustrator Bridget Acreman

Comicon returns bigger and better than ever

Central Coast Comicon is set to return to Gosford on Saturday, May 27, for another exciting year of fandom celebrations.

The convention, to be held at The Entertainment Grounds, is expected to draw thousands of fans from across the regions.

An annual celebration since 2016, Central Coast Comicon

More than 4,000 people attended last year

2023 promises to be bigger and better than ever before, featuring a wide range of activities and attractions for fans of all kinds.

More than 4,000 people flocked to the event last year, as it returned following a COVID-induced hiatus of two years, with even more expected this year.

Attendees can look forward to

cosplay, panel discussions, pro wrestling, circus acts, light saber lessons, medieval battles, live performances, exclusive merchandise, gaming tournaments and much more.

All entertainment is included in the entry fee with funds raised through ticket sales to support Central Coast Youth Services and the event

organiser, Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS).

RYSS has pledged that the funds raised from the 2023 event will be dedicated to a Homeless Youth Campaign for transitional housing.

“We’re thrilled to be back at The Entertainment Grounds for another amazing year of Central Coast Comicon,” RYSS CEO Kim McLoughry said.

Many fans choose to dress up on the day

“This year’s convention promises to be our biggest and most exciting yet, with something for everyone to enjoy.

“Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, we’ve got you covered.”

Tickets can be found on the event website, or pay at the door on the day.

Gates will open at 11am. For more information on Central Coast Comicon, including a full schedule of events and entertainment, go to www.cccomicon.com.au. Follow Central Coast Comicon on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and news.

Source: Regional Youth Support Services

Young musicians shine at scholarship awards

Gosford High School

violinist Kaito Deed and Central Coast Grammar School flautist Elana Sydenham have won the top prizes at the Pearl Beach Senior Scholarship Awards.

Central Coast Conservatorium of Music student Kaito, 16, took out the Pearl Beach Scholarship and People’s Choice award, while Elana won the People’s Choice Runner-Up award.

The awards were handed out on May 20 at the annual Pearl Beach Music Scholarship concert hosted by Pearl Beach Progress Association and the Irvine family.

Held in partnership with the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music, the annual awards concerts – which include a Junior Showcase and Senior Finals competition – have been running since 2005, offering

performance opportunities to students who have excelled in their chosen fields.

Kaito wowed the audience and adjudicator Charmian Gadd with his virtuosic performance of Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso by Camille Saint-Saens.

The Year 11 student has been playing violin for 12 years and is a student of Karina Hollands.

He is currently concertmaster with Central Coast Youth Orchestra and NSW Regional Youth Orchestra, and was last year’s Pearl Beach People’s Choice winner.

The $1,000 2023 Pearl Beach Music Scholarship was presented by sponsor Pearly’s Cafe while the People’s Choice Award valued at $500 was presented to Kaito by Russell Grove in memory of his late wife Frances.

“Frances was an avid

5 Lands Walk 2023

The 18th anniversary of the 5 Lands Walk occurs this year, on Saturday 24 June 2023

With the expected volume of foot traf c and the associated safety concerns, the Council has agreed to alter the traf c arrangements for the following locations:

The Arena/Coast Road, North Avoca

Between the hours of 9am and 3 pm on the day of the event, all traf c on The Arena/Coast Road will be converted to one way, travelling north.

Residents will be able to reach John Gray Close during the 5 Lands Walk by turning into Coast Road off the Scenic Highway. Tramway Road will remain two-way during the event, and traf c will be able to continue down it and turn right into Elgata Avenue to reach the Surf CIub.

Del Monte Place, Copacabana

Between the hours of 8am and 2 pm on the day of the event, all traf c on Del Monte Place will be converted to one way, travelling north, between Segura Street and Del Monte Place Reserve. One lane will cater for pedestrians and the other for motorised vehicles.

Both Oceano and Segura Streets will remain two-way during the event, and traf c will be able to continue down Oceano Street into Segura Street then right into Del Monte Place to reach the Surf Club.

We would like to apologise for any inconvenience these temporary changes may cause you. At the same time, we hope that you, your family and friends will be able to join us and enjoy the day in what has become one of the Central Coast’s premier events.

musician all her life; she started studying piano at age eight and continued her love of music through professional roles in schools and private tuition,” Grove said.

“Whenever possible she fostered and nurtured that love of music with young people.”

The People’s Choice RunnerUp award of $250, sponsored by McGrath Real Estate Ettalong Beach, was presented to Elana who impressed the audience with her rendition of Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino by Paul Taffanel and an entertaining and energetic performance of The Great Train Race by Ian Clarke which closed the concert.

A student of Rosalie Bourne, 15-year-old Elana is also a member of Central Coast Youth Orchestra and is principal flute with NSW Regional Youth Orchestra.

The other finalists were 2022 People’s Choice winner, violinist Minjy Lee, flautist Emma Deed; bassoonist Xavier Cardozo and trumpet player Jacinta Boyd.

Acclaimed violinist Charmian Gadd, who adjudicated the awards, thanked the sponsors who donated towards the scholarships.

She said it was difficult to choose a winner from the violinists, flute players, bassoon and trumpet but students who played from memory and communicated well with the audience gave stand-out performances.

“Every one of those young players has a possible good future in music,” she said.

Also attending the event was special guest, former NSW Arts Minister Don Harwin.

“Thank you to the Pearl Beach Association and to the Central

Coast Conservatorium of Music for a great day of wonderful music,” he said.

“I am so impressed with the quality of the work we have seen.

“We’ve really had a special treat.

“There’s a great future ahead for Central Coast Conservatorium – both in terms of its students and the musical legacy it is going to leave but also as a great place we’re going to enjoy in its revamped home in Mann St, Gosford.”

Guest performers this year were 2022 Pearl Beach Scholarship winner Mia Cross and past Irvine Piano Scholarship winners Chris Chen and Aaron Carey.

In the morning, selected junior students from Central Coast Conservatorium of Music performed in the Pearl Beach Junior Showcase which this

year celebrated its 10th anniversary.

The showcase also included the presentation of the 2023 Irvine Family Piano Scholarship, which was awarded to Emily Robertson, who opened the Junior Showcase with her beautiful rendition of First Gymnopedie by Eric Satie.

The other junior performers were Tatiana Wang (violin), Onyu Grace Lee (flute), Daniel Zhang (cello), Grace Moura-Atkins (piano), Trinity Lee (violin), Caitlin Swadell (flute), Dana Hamilton (bassoon), Ehryn Bala (voice), Monika Sydenham (alto sax) and Krys Cox (cello).

Accompanist for the senior concert was Gareth Szakos, while Liisa Munnukka was accompanist for the junior concert.

Music a big part of 5 Lands Walk

Music, dance and performances have been hallmarks of the 5 Lands Walk since it first began and this year will be no different.

Bringing a refreshed energy to reflect the evolution of the 5 Lands Walk Winter Festival, this year’s Opening Ceremony on Friday, June 23, will be a collaboration between acclaimed and gifted Darkinjung elder Gavi Duncan and internationally renowned Central Coast based artist and composer, Dr Steven Stanke.

As former Director of Music for the Royal Australian Navy, Stanke directed the Invictus Games Sydney Opening and Closing Ceremonies and Australia’s contributions to the Edinburgh Tattoo in 2016 and 2017.

He will bring a fresh interpretation and new compositions as musical director of the 5 Lands Walk Opening Ceremony, informed

by Gavi Duncan’s deep spiritual knowledge and artistic insight.

Stanke is the Artistic Director and Chief Conductor for Symphony Central Coast, and his Celestial Emu concert will round off the weekend of the 5 Lands Walk on Sunday, June 25.

“We are thrilled and honoured to showcase the exceptional talents of Gavi and Steven during this year’s 5 Lands Walk Winter Festival, providing a

unique dimension to the event,”

5 Lands Walk President Pauline Wright said.

“It’s an opportunity to experience and enjoy at close range the amazing talent and wonderful community spirit of the Central Coast, set against one of the world’s most beautiful natural backdrops.

“I warmly invite you to register to be part of the 5 Lands Walk Winter Festival 2023 at www.5landswalk.com.au,

where you’ll find all the program details.

“Participation is free and fun for all your family and friends, no matter what age.

“A free shuttle service is provided by our wonderful supporter, Busways, between sites at MacMasters, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal on Saturday, June 24.”

Source: 5 Lands Walk

Source: Central Coast Conservatorium of Music

Kaito Deed won the Pearl Beach Scholarship and the People’s Choice award

Elana Sydenham was the People’s Choice runner-up award

Symphony Central Coast’s Celestial Emu concert will round off the weekend

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

After a three-year break due to COVID-19, Israeli folk dancing has resumed on the Central Coast.

Weekly sessions are held at Terrigal and newcomers are welcome, and dance experience is not necessary.

A spokesperson said most active people who could walk, hop, skip and do turns to a rhythm could learn the dances.

“Israeli circle dancing is a global phenomenon, being held in many cities and towns on most continents including Asia,” the spokesperson said.

“In Australia there are groups

Israeli folk dancing resumes on Coast

in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and even Tweed Heads

“ If you’re wondering what it looks like, think of Greek circle dancing.

“Israeli circle dances incorporate folk dance styles from eastern Europe and various middle eastern countries.

“Ranging in level from easy to complex and challenging, each new dance is taught from scratch in the beginner session and participants can progress to intermediate/advanced.

“Dancers report benefits such as increased fitness and

balance, improved mental capacity and sense of wellbeing, the development of a

Choirboys head for Laycock St

Formed in 1978 on the Northern Beaches, The Choirboys are still going strong and will bring their latest show, Run to Paradise, to Laycock St Community Theatre in June.

Named after the band’s seminal rock anthem, Run To Paradise is a “spilling of the beans” of sorts.

It’s part story and part song, chronicling some of the wildest, most risqué, outrageous, and downright hilarious stories of Australian rock.

“They didn’t call it Pub Rock in

those days, but we were there in the beginning and we’re still here now,” front-man Mark Gable said.

“Put it down to hearsay – it’s our opinion, it’s what we saw, it’s what people told us and most of it is extremely funny and incredibly interesting.

“Some of the stories are so funny and just plain stupid because back then, we could do things that nobody else could do because it wasn’t a normal job.

“There were no rules.”

Behind the narrative are the classic songs that define the

musical landscape of rock music in the ’70s and ’80s, including Deep Purple’s Smoke On The Water, Chuck Berry’s Never Can Tell, TMG’s Jump In My Car, Dragon’s Are You Old Enough, AC/DC’s Long Way To The Top and of course Choirboys hits such as Boys will Be Boys, Never Gonna Die and Struggletown.

The show will be at Laycock at 8pm on Saturday, June 24.

See the theatre’s website for details and bookings.

wider social group and the enjoyment of beautiful music.”

dancing was founded just over 30 years ago by former local high-school teacher, Avi Zohar,

and was held at Erina until 2020.

The weekly session is now held at Terrigal on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 7.45pm for beginners and from 7.45pm for more experienced dancers.

Cost is $8 per week with the first session free for newcomers.

Anyone interested in joining should contact co-ordinator Cathy Wright at coast.israeli. dancing@gmail.com.

Text or call 0433 674 686 for more information.

Central Coast Israeli folk

Source: Central Coast Israeli Dancing

The dances are easy to learn

Source: Mark Mancini

The Choirboys will bring Run to Paradise to Laycock St in June

The Sandman and Flacco are coming to Laycock St

Pioneers of Australian contemporary comedy, Stephen ‘Sandman’ Abbott and Paul ‘Flacco’ Livingston will present their new show Forevelyn at the Laycock St Community Theatre next month.

The pair say they will exhume the scattered remains of their own characters in a touching tribute to themselves, the men behind themselves, and the two women behind the men behind themselves.

Combining stand-up comedy and sit-down musings, the comedians will share share stories, readings and revelations regarding their fictional creations and the

never before revealed contribution of their deceased mothers, both named Evelyn. Their alter egos, The Sandman and Flacco, will be on hand to offer their advice to their ageing creators.

Abbott and Livingston will also present original songs “trumpeting their slow demise into irrelevance and beyond”.

“We are two senior men with immature hearts looking back over why we turned out the way we did,” they said.

Although best known for his character The Sandman, Abbott was a founding member of The Castanet Club, a 10-piece comedy group which burst on to the scene at the Adelaide

Festival in 1984 winning the inaugural Best of the Fringe Award.

Touring for six years in 1990 the Castanets made the feature film The Castanet Club, directed by Neil Armfield.

Abbott appeared from 1993 to 2000 on JJJ with his cult comic creation The Sandman, leading to regular appearances on Good News Week and The Fat – as well as three Flacco and Sandman comedy specials

for Channel 10 – then hosting his own comedy variety series

In Siberia Tonight for SBS TV. There is much more to Livingston than his beloved character Flacco.

He received an AFI nomination for his dramatic acting in The Navigator, co-wrote the international success Happy Feet Two, and is the recipient of five AWGIE awards for his contributions to the top rating and long running Australian satirical television series Good News Week.

As Flacco, he has travelled internationally over many years sharing the stage with Lily Tomlin, Jerry Lewis, Ray Romano, Jon Stewart, Steven

Enjoy a Taste of Toukley – and Wyong

Taste of Toukley was so successful last year that it is returning in June – along with a new Taste of Wyong community event.

Central Coast Council has partnered with 12 eateries to present the two events – with a limited number of free tasting boxes at each town up for grabs on the day!

Taste of Toukley will be held from noon-3pm on Saturday,

June 3, on the Toukley Village Green and Taste of Wyong will take place from 11am-2pm on Saturday, June 10 at Wyong Town Park.

Council Director of Community and Culture, Melanie Smith, said the events would be a treat for all the senses.

“There will be family friendly activities at each location, including workshops, craft activities, face painting, a

petting zoo with baby animal feeding, roving entertainment along with live entertainment and giveaways from local businesses,” she said.

“I encourage our community to bring your friends and family along to the Taste of Wyong and Taste of Toukley community events and support local businesses.”

Each eatery will manage its own distribution of tasting

Gosford Emergency Department OPEN MORNING

Wednesday 31st May 2023

8.00am – 12.00pm

Gosford Hospital Conference Centre

• Are you a Registered Nurse who has been considering a speciality change in your clinical experience?

• Are you currently studying and would like to know more about the emergency medicine career pathway?

• Are you an experienced Registered Nurse with emergency medicine experience and would like to stop the commute and work in your local community?

For more information and to register, please scan the QR Code below.

boxes and you will need to visit one of the participating restaurants on the day and use the codewords “I love Toukley” on June 3 and “I love Wyong” on June 10 to receive a free box (numbers are limited and conditions apply).

Taste of Toukley participating eateries are: Mexicoast Cantina, 243 Main Rd; Sorrisos by Dish, 268 Main Rd; Spices Indian Restaurant, 231 Main Rd; Noble Thai, 49 Canton Beach Rd; and What the Pho, 266 Main Rd.

Taste of Wyong participating

eateries are: Chapman Coffee House, 9/14-16 Alison Rd; Chick’n Korean Fried, 10/1416 Alison Rd; Eva’s Corner, 108 Pacific Hwy; Hungry Wolf’s Wyong, shop 14, 18-34 Alison Rd; Jerry Sent Me, 7/14-16 Alison Rd; Sirone’s Pizza by the Meter, 7/1-11 Alison Rd; and Woodblock Bar & Grill, 3 Hely St.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said placemaking events in town centres benefitted both local businesses and the community.

“The Taste of Toukley and

Wright, Penn and Teller, and Drew Carey.

More recently, he has toured across Australia and internationally with the reformed Doug Anthony Allstars. He is also the author of six books, including D.A.A.S Their Part in My Downfall (Allen & Unwin), a personal memoir documenting 25 years of live performance supporting Australia’s most controversial comedy export The Doug Anthony Allstars.

Forevelyn will be at Laycock St Community Theatre on Saturday, June 17.

See the theatre’s website for bookings.

Terry Collins

Taste of Wyong supports local businesses (and) contributes to the local economy, as well as creating vibrant hubs and experiences for locals and visitors to enjoy,” he said.

“This is one way that Council helps to improve, activate and maintain town centres.”

The Taste of Wyong is one of the event hubs of the 2023 Harvest Festival.

For all Council events, go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ events.

Source: Central Coast Council

De Vilder’s choir sings in a wave of change

Music and song have always heralded in changing times.

Sting’s music helped tear down the iron curtain, jazz paved the way for rock and roll and The Beatles sang in the shifting sands of the ’60s. Now a new wave of musical change makers is emerging from the hardships of the world’s recent experiences.

Avoca-based composer Yantra de Vilder has hit a high note with her Ephemeral Choir at this years 50th Aquarius Festival in Nimbin, held on Saturday, May 20.

The choir was undoubtedly the musical highlight of the counter-culture festival, which was first held in 1973.

The choir’s 12 original songs were composed by de Vilder during the pandemic and the following floods.

They sing of the hardship, isolation, division and the ultimate rise and unity of people and communities affected.

The Ephemeral Choir was originally assembled by de Vilder prior to lockdown. She held practices at her Avoca studios with an eclectic mix of singers.

In 2022 the choir and accompanying musicians opened the 5 Lands Walk. They later went on to perform in various locations around Sydney, often as part of de Vilder’s other initiative Pianos for the People. a project which restores old pianos and places them in public places in need of musical rejuvenation.

The Ephemeral Choir now has a branch in Mullumbimby, where de Vilder has a studio.

De Vilder was on her minigrand piano playing, leading the choristers accompanied by a themed light projection show. The capacity crowd was carried through the narrative of the songs, collectively called Credo, toward the crescendo of the song Freedom.

The crowd burst into spontaneous applause and foot stomping, as if heralding in the transition of a new age.

Stephen ‘Sandman’ Abbott and Paul ‘Flacco’ Livingston

Choir members from the Central Coast and Northern Rivers joined together in the old Presbyterian Church in Nimbin to perform.

David Abrahams

Yantra de Vilder conducts the choir in Nimbin

The Naughty Noodle Fun Haus is launching a new Restaurant Residency program and is inviting applications from aspiring or experienced entrepreneurs who dream of owning and operating a restaurant but find costs, space and logistics prohibitive.

The first-of-its-kind program is open to all food makers, food stallholders, professional chefs, and home cooks and creators.

The successful applicant will receive a three-month pop-up restaurant residency in the new

Business & Property

Applications invited for new Restaurant Residency program

venue Fun Haus Factory Gosford, set to launch soon.

It will offer the chance to hone in on cooking passion, build expertise, a menu and customer base and experiment with food as well as growing operational skills and a business model in a fully supported environment without the cost outlay and risk of starting a new business alone.

The organisation has been piloting food and culture popups for three years and the Restaurant Residency program incorporates experience and feedback from local foodies.

“We are thrilled to expand on

our emerging residencies programming offering food creatives a unique opportunity to invest in their potential,” Fun Haus Creative Director Glitta Supernova said.

“This is a celebration of Coastie food culture.

“We see foodmakers as creators and explorers; food brings us together and is a passion for the makers and receivers as well as being an immersive experience that connects people.

“For the Naughty Noodle, food is part of our organisation’s continued evolution and as we continue to lead the way with

innovative local solutions to real challenges we face as a community this program is an organic expansion of the creative definition.

“Food can transcend cultural borders and highlights creativity and ingenuity.

“This is the first residency of its kind and supports contemporary food practice by championing the experimental, the transitional and the interdisciplinary.”

Board Member Juan Iocco said the pandemic forced restaurants to halt indoor dining or even close their doors permanently.

“The effects of the coronavirus are still being felt by restaurant owners across the country as the industry, much like the arts, struggles to reset itself,” he said.

“As innovators and creatures, we have been forced into creating new ways to empower, engage and enliven community to meet the present local challenges as well as open up diversified revenue streams.

“This program is calling out to people who can excel at their passion and deliver excellence and we are backing that up with our restaurant start-up residency which will enable,

engage and kick start those local entrepreneurs.

“(It will also) increase Gosford night-time economy, foot traffic and contemporary options.”

The Restaurant Residency program welcomes innovative ideas and bold food projects from a diverse range of voices and is open to individual, collaborative and group proposals from applicants. Applications close on June 30. For more details and to apply go to naughtynoodle.com.au/ food.

Source: Naughty Noodle Fun

Linda Emery Lawyer

Photo: Lisa Haymes

How to be a charity event partner with Council

A busy program of five major community events planned for the next 12 months is an exciting opportunity for local charities and not-for-profit organisations to raise their profile and secure fundraising opportunities by partnering with Central Coast Council.

Expressions of interest are now open for key events in The Entrance, Gosford and Wyong for 2023-24 including ChromeFest, Light Up the Lake, New Year’s Eve, Australia Day and Love Lanes.

If selected as an official charity partner, charities and not-for-profit organisations will be invited to conduct fundraising opportunities at the event, taking advantage of the expected high attendance.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said it’s a great opportunity for charities to

connect with the community at a large-scale event.

“Attendance figures at community events over the past few years continue to grow and it’s important that we as a Council offer charities the opportunity to reach sections of the community they might not necessarily be able to target on a regular basis,” she said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart is encouraging charities to register their interest now.

“Charites and not-for-profits do an enormous amount of work for the community, much of which is in the background,” he said.

“As a Council we have positive relationships within the sector, and I am delighted that we offer this opportunity,

particularly to those smaller organisations, to become an official event partner.

“Many of our past partners have achieved very successful fundraising at our events and I have no doubt it will continue at what are very popular days out for our community and visitors to the Coast.”

Visit Council’s website and search for EOI Call For Charity Partnerships for further information and find out how to make an application and become Council’s official charity partner at an event in 2023-24.

Applications close at 5pm on Friday June 2.

Source: Central Coast Council

Gain valuable experience in tourism and marketing

A new pilot program set in motion as part of National Volunteer Week aims to provide young people with valuable experience through various volunteering roles in the tourism and marketing industry.

Expressions of interest are now open on the Central Coast Visitor Services Young Ambassador Pilot Program.

The 12-week-volunteer program has been designed to provide real industry experience and networking opportunities for 10 young people aged between 18 and 25 to help create pathways into the tourism industry.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the pilot

program was a great opportunity for young people studying tourism or marketing.

“Program participants will have the chance to meet experts and build on their educational experiences,” she said.

“One of the key aims of the program is to help the next generation break into the industry while also highlighting all that the Central Coast has to offer.

“As well as this exciting youth program there are also volunteer opportunities at the recently revitalised Visitor Information Centre at The Entrance and we’re encouraging residents to register interest in becoming a Visitor Service Volunteer Ambassador, which is a

wonderful chance for people to meet others and share their passion and love of the Central Coast.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said National Volunteer Week – held from May 15-21

– was the ideal time to reflect on the valuable contributions volunteers make to the community.

“There are thousands of Central Coast residents making a difference in our community

each and every day whether it’s helping out at school, doing a beach patrol over summer, improving our natural areas, or working with a charity,” he said.

“Council offers so many

different types of volunteering opportunities no matter what your interest whether its tourism or land care.

“Volunteering is a great way to get out and about and meet like-minded people, stay fit and healthy and promote the natural beauty of the Central Coast.”

To find out more about volunteer opportunities across Council including the 2023 Central Coast Visitor Services Young Ambassador Pilot Program or how you can volunteer at the new-look Visitor Information Centre, the Regional Gallery or join the Environmental Volunteer Program, visit Council’s website.

Source: Central Coast Council

More help needed to address cost of doing business

Business NSW Central Coast has welcomed costof-living measures in the recent Federal Budget, but says there is more to do to address the primary cost of doing business.

Business NSW Executive Director Regional NSW and Visitor Economy Paula Martin said a $20,000 instant asset write-off, energy bill relief and strong migration levels will give businesses some relief from the storm of high interest rates, rapid inflation and energy price rises.

She said Treasurer Jim Chalmers should be commended for delivering a projected Budget surplus of $4.2B for 2022-23 – a sizeable revision from the deficit of $36.9 billion estimated in the last budget.

“This budget shows there has

been a responsible approach taken to economic management to control spending and target relief for small businesses,” Martin said.

“While delivering the first surplus in 15 years is something to be commended, there will be much work required in the years ahead to control the deficit with gross debt forecast to hit $1T ($1,000B) by 202526.”

Martin said key budget measures which would impact businesses include a new $20,000 instant asset write-off for small business allowing those with aggregated annual turnover of less than $10M to immediately deduct eligible depreciating assets costing less than $20,000 and the introduction of practical measures to guard small businesses against cyber

threats through a $23.4M program to help them train inhouse cyber wardens.

She said almost all of NSW’s 840,000-plus small and medium businesses could be eligible for up to $20,000 in tax relief under the Small Business

Energy Incentive and one million small businesses nationwide will get power bill rebates through the jointly funded Energy Bill Relief Fund with NSW businesses to receive $650 in relief from July 1.

She also welcomed 300,000

new fee-free TAFE places to train Australians in critical and emerging sectors, a new focus on rent relief and unlocking additional funding to build one million new affordable homes and $2B in initiatives to simplify the interface between businesses and government services.

“Businesses are in desperate need of a break and these measures will provide welcome support for business hit hard by costs pressures,” Martin said.

“Business NSW welcomes the Energy Price Relief Plan, which will offer $650 for one million eligible small business to save on their energy bill.

“In the October Budget, the Federal Government announced that it would increase the 2022/23 permanent Migration Program planning level from 160,000 to

195,000.

“It has been revised down to 190,000 – which will still assist businesses being hit by an acute skills shortage.

“The Government will provide additional funding of $54.3M over five years from 2022–23 to introduce what it is calling a ‘new non-financial support model for Australian Apprenticeships from 1 July 2024’.

“Business NSW will work closely with government to ensure enterprises are still able to access the workers and skills they need.

“There is a cost-of-living crisis which is being addressed, but there is a cost-of-doingbusiness crisis that needs more attention over the coming 12 months.”

Source: Business NSW Central Coast

Business NSW Central Coast Regional Director Paula Martin

Gain industry experience by volunteering at the new visitor centre at The Entrance

Charities can get involved in large-scale events

How to play the credit card game – and win

Credit cards are back with a vengeance, with monthly purchases reaching a record high of $33.5 billion in January, according to a recent report from the comparison site Finder.

There are more than 13 million credit cards in circulation, with one in four Aussies admitting they can’t manage their finances without one.

While misuse and mismanagement of a credit card can lead to a downward spiral of indebtedness, there are some things you can do to avoid the fees and stay in the black.

Banking rules introduced in 2019 are designed to curb over-borrowing, with tighter rules on credit limits, balance transfers and charges.

Despite these, many users can be caught out by living well beyond their means: only 8% of respondents in a Finder credit card survey said that their application had been rejected.

If you are thinking of getting

a new card, here are some factors to consider to help pick the right one.

Have you calculated the fees?

Once upon a time, credit cards charged a flat annual fee that you had to pay regardless of how often you used them.

But with stiff competition from buy now, pay later schemes, the big four banks have launched a new type of card that rides off the BNPL model.

The NAB StraightUp Card, for example, offers lower credit limits of $1000 to $3000 with a fixed monthly fee ranging from $10 to $30.

Other banks have similar products, such as the CommBank Neo card or the Westpac Flex card, but the principle is the same: if you don’t use the card that month, then you don’t have to pay the fee.

This sounds really cool until you do the maths and realise it can cost you more than if you just pay the annual flat fee.

For example, if you use this kind of card every month and your credit limit is $1000 and the fee is $12, then you’ll pay $120 for the year, while other credit cards only charge an annual fee of $89 and sometimes as low as $59.

Some banks also waive this fee in the first year.

If your main concern is not the annual fee but staying on top of interest payments, then this type of card might suit your needs.

Be wary of cash advances

The worst thing you can do if you have a credit card is to use

it for a cash advance, because that’s when things can get hairy.

For example, with the ANZ Low Rate card, the interest rate on purchases is 12.49%pa, but you have an interest-free period of up to 55 days before it kicks in.

With cash advances, you don’t get an interest-free period and the interest rate is higher.

Depending on the credit card provider, you could be slapped with a flat fee or a 3% fee on the cash advance, plus 21% to 24% annual interest calculated from the day you make the transaction.

For example, if you take out

Wages are set to increase, but by how much?

The federal government is advocating a pay increase for workers on the minimum wage that is at least in line with inflation, but faces push-back from some industry groups.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has commenced its

annual wage review, ahead of determining the new rates.

They will come into effect on July 1 and impact the take-home pay of 184,000 workers on the minimum wage, which will flow on to 2.67 million workers on award wages.

In its submission to the FWC,

the Albanese government has argued that the commission should “ensure the real wages of Australia’s low-paid workers do not go backwards”.

But the government does not suggest that wages across the board should automatically increase in line with inflation,

which indicates that those on higher wages will receive a lower amount.

The government has not put a figure on an increase.

The annual inflation rate eased to 6.8% in February, the second month it has fallen after hitting a peak of 8.4% in December 2022.

a $500 cash advance on a Monday and the bank charges you $15 for it, you can expect to pay the interest on $515 from the day of the transaction.

Watch out for the promos Banks are regularly offering promotions to new customers and there may be one that suits your spending commitments for the year and allows you to save some dollars.

For example, some banks have cashback programs, which are typically capped, where they give you $80 to $250 for a certain amount spent each month on eligible purchases.

Check if your bank waives the annual fee if you meet certain terms and conditions.

For example, Commonwealth Bank has a credit card where you don’t have to pay the $89 annual fee if you have made a minimum of $10,000 purchases in the previous year.

There are also a variety of balance transfer promos, which can be a way for you to manage your debt over a longer period. Some banks offer balance transfers at no interest for 24 to 30 months.

Reward programs allow you to accumulate frequent flyer points or get discounts at major retailers.

However, these cards tend to come with higher annual fees and interest rates and are more suited to people who have a big list of expenses rather than those who just need a card for emergencies.

Whatever you do, read the fine print.

Different banks have slight variations in their interest-free periods, fees and balance transfer terms and conditions.

MICHELLLE BALTAZAR

Currently, the minimum wage is $21.38 an hour, after a 5.8% increase on July 1 last year.

The ACTU has called for the hourly rate to be raised by $1.50 to $22.88, with the union saying it’s for the survival of the public.

However, business is concerned it will have a negative

impact, with the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry calling for an increase of 3.5%.

It fears an increase higher than 4% would add to inflationary pressures.

The FWC decision is due in June. ELIOT

HASTIE

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

A bill being introduced to NSW Parliament to provide cost of living relief and better protection to NSW renters will come as welcome news to Central Coast tenants.

The legislation will eliminate the practice of secret rent bidding and begin development of a portable bond scheme.

The Bill will: close the loopholes in the existing ban on solicited rent bidding to include owners and third parties; eliminate secret rent bidding by requiring owners and their agents to notify

Good news for Coast renters

applicants of other offers from prospective tenants which are higher than the advertised price; and ensure appropriate powers are in place to design and enact a portable bond scheme that reduces the strain on renters.

With research by the Real Estate Institute of NSW indicating the Central Coast yields a 1.5 per cent vacancy rate, rent prices are soaring due to the low supply and high demand.

The government says this is the first step in its commitment to make renting fairer across the Central Coast.

Twenty-three per cent of houses across the region are being rented, with the reforms set to affect a large proportion of Coasties.

Member for Wyong and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the Government was determined to tackle the housing affordability crisis headon.

“These changes will make a tangible difference to rental prices across the Coast which will help thousands of Coasties make ends meet,” he said.

Member for Swansea Yasmin

Catley said the legislation would be a major support for renters on the Coast and Member for The Entrance David Mehan said making renting fairer was a priority for the Labor Government.

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch said protecting renters by levelling the playing field was key for the community.

“We took key reforms to the election, and we’re getting them done in our first week in Parliament,” she said.

Source: NSW Government

Planning panel knocks back affordable housing proposal

The Local Planning Panel has upheld a recommendation from Central Coast Council to refuse an application for a six-storey affordable housing development at 176 Gertrude St, Gosford.

The proposed development would have contained 16 residential units, comprising 12 two-bedroom apartments and four three-bedroom apartments, with 18 car spaces, nine bicycle spaces and a waste storage area.

At its meeting on May 11, the

panel refused the application for a residential flat building, noting that Council’s report detailed attempts to contact the applicant in February and March this year.

The applicant was notified of the upcoming panel meeting and given the opportunity to register to address the panel by letter on May 3 but did not respond to any of the letters, providing no opportunity to discuss any modification of the proposal which may have remedied Council’s concerns.

“The panel supports affordable housing in principle but agrees with Council that there are

unresolved matters with this application that prevent its approval,” the meeting minutes said.

Tourism promotion to boost region as winter hot-spot

The application was therefore refused on a number of grounds.

The panel said it did not comply with the State

Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021 in regards to nominated gross floor area, with no formal request to vary the development standard.

There were also concerns on significant variations to side setback controls.

“As a consequence the relationship of the built form to the street and the adjoining properties is unacceptable in terms of privacy, massing, overshadowing,and streetscape presentation,” the minutes said.

“Insufficient information has been provided to demonstrate

how the site will function, manage its impacts and address site constraints in terms of driveway/vehicle access, water management and stormwater, and impact on the sewer line.

“The applicant has also failed to demonstrate that waste trucks can safely access and exit the proposed waste service area given the steep grade of the site.”

The panel found the proposed development was not in the public interest and voted unanimously for refusal.

Discover delectable dining spots during winter

Destination Central Coast is calling on all local visitor businesses including restaurants, cafes, bars, visitor attractions, tour operators and accommodation providers to get involved in the Love Central Coast Winter Tourism Campaign.

Businesses are invited to put together a special winter offer, package, exclusive experience or menu deal that will help encourage visitors to choose the Central Coast for a winter break.

All offers will be listed on a

dedicated page on the website LoveCentralCoast.com and link through to the business website to book or find out more information.

The Love Central Coast Winter Tourism Campaign aims to grow off-peak visitation and encourage visitors to explore and experience a broader area of the Coast, not only the beaches and waterways but also into the lush hinterland.

The campaign promotion, from June 1 to August 31, will be funded by Destination Central Coast and include significant expenditure across

digital advertising, paid media partnerships and public relations.

It will showcase the Central Coast as an appealing winter holiday destination by highlighting a range of exciting seasonal activities, experiences and events over the winter months.

More information is available via email to Emma Perham, Industry Services at tourism@ centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Source: Destination Central Coast

Terry Collins

An artist’s impression of the proposed building contained in a Statement of Environmental Effects lodged with the application

Central Coast State Labor MPs (from left) David Harris (Wyong), Liesl Tesch (Gosford), David Mehan (The Entrance) and Yasmin Catley (Swansea)

NAISDA welcomes almost $1M in extra funding

NAISDA Dance College has welcomed Federal Government’s funding of $957,025 announced in the recent federal budget as part of its $9M commitment to eight national training organisations for next financial year, commonly known as the Arts8.

NAISDA is the only First Nations organisation within the prestigious Arts8 and the increased funding will support and build its capacity as Australia’s leading arts training organisation specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

Chairperson Mayrah Sonter said the funds help the organisation drive higher levels of national tertiary arts training education and career pathways through critical training courses and skills development.

“NAISDA’s First Nations students come from communities and regions across Australia to train towards careers which support our national creative economy,”

she said.

“Our success and reputation have led to an enviable challenge.

“We have more young people

seeking to join us than we can currently accept.

“Education is a pathway to change and we look forward to increasing curriculum and training resources to build

opportunity and equip more young people with skills to last a lifetime.”

As a training organisation, NAISDA’s outcomes are unique with its pre-COVID student completion rate of 75 per cent, double the national average of 36 per cent for accredited VET qualifications.

The results speak to the success of the NAISDA learning model which removes many of the barriers to tertiary training experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people through a program of cultural connection, wellbeing and holistic learning support.

“We would like to thank Minister Tony Burke and the Office for the Arts for supporting NAISDA’s unique role in nurturing and equipping First Nations artists, performers and innovators whose artworks,

Free skin checks on offer at Terrigal

Adore Beauty has launched its SPF365 campaign and will be offering free skin checks and sunscreen at the Terrigal foreshore war memorial from 8am to 2pm on Tuesday, May 30.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, but as the temperature drops so too does our interest in wearing sunscreen.

So the leading online beauty retailer has kicked off a NSWwide campaign to remind us all that even in the cooler months wearing sunscreen is essential.

A survey of more than 2,000 people conducted in May by Adore Beauty found that only 56.8 per cent of people wore sunscreen every day.

Adore Beauty will offer free skin cancer checks in partnership with Skin Smart Australia and sunscreens from its in-house brand AB LAB. Participants will receive a

free 10-minute skin check by a trained dermoscopist and some complimentary AB LAB sunscreen.

They will receive an individual results card and digital archiving of skin lesions.

There will also be a UV camera filter station for seeing SPF coverage in real time.

“In Australia, we’re often reminded to ‘slip, slop slap’ during the summer months, but the reality is it’s a yearround need,” Adore Beauty cofounder Kate Morris said.

“While attitudes towards sun protection and SPF are moving in the right direction, there is room for improvement.

In 2022, Adore Beauty launched its first in-house brand, AB LAB, with a range of skincare-led SPFs designed to suit different skin types and preferences.

The third sunscreen, Barely There SPF50+ with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E, launched in

April 2023.

The company found that while one-in-three Adore Society members say they don’t wear sunscreen daily, 80 per cent said they would if it included a cosmeceutical that

helped to improve the condition of their skin.

“We want to empower everybody to look after their skin, 365 days of the year because we live in a part of the world where applying

steps, sounds and creativity shape the fabric of our nation,” Sonter said.

The funding will enable the college to further deliver on Revive – the government’s five-year Cultural Policy and roadmap towards a strong, equitable and innovative arts sector.

“Revive is a powerful statement recognising that our creative and cultural sectors have been operating from a place of deficit for so long,” Sonter said.

“This new starting point firmly places arts training and cultural organisations at the heart of possibility and change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, artists and all Australians.”

Source: NAISDA

average UV index of three and above – even in winter.

“On days with a UV level of three or more, Cancer Council recommends wearing sunscreen.

“Some of our worst sunburns happen on dull and overcast days.

“In the past, we referred to these cases of sunburn as ‘wind burn’, but we now know that 80 per cent of the sun’s UV radiation can penetrate light cloud cover.”

Skin Smart CEO Jane Homberger said wearing sunscreen should be like brushing your teeth –an essential part of your daily routine to ensure your health is protected.

sunscreen daily is a nonnegotiable no matter the weather, or the season,” Adore Beauty Head of Brand Chelsea Healey said.

“In Australia, most of the country experiences an

Treasurer stops by to discuss budget

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers was on the Central Coast recently to discuss implications, especially in the area of health, of the recent Federal Budget with Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Dr Raymond Fam and his team from Providence Medical Umina.

Topping the agenda for discussion was the government’s record investment in bulk billing and other cost-of-living measures designed to take the pressure

off families and businesses.

Chalmers said people were under the pump and the Budget would really make a difference for many on the Coast.

“On the Central Coast we’re delivering cheaper medicines and making it cheaper and easier to see a GP for tens of thousands of locals at the same time as we deliver cheaper power bills and provide extra rental assistance to thousands more,” he said.

“Whether it’s cheaper medicines, more bulk billing or a bit of extra help to pay the rent – our Budget will help local

families and local businesses and create more opportunities for more people in this community to get ahead.”

Chalmers said Reid and Member for Dobell Emma McBride were proactive local representatives working hard to deliver policies that would ease the cost of living for people when they needed it most.

Reid said as an emergency doctor, he knows the importance of being able to see a doctor when you are sick.

“The government’s $3.5B investment in Medicare and

According to Cancer Council, around two in three Australians are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70.

Source: Adore Beauty

tripling of the bulk billing incentive will ensure people on the Central Coast will have greater access to their local GP,” he said.

“Around 73,000 people in Robertson will benefit from this investment in Medicare, and it will mean the incentive will increase from $6.60 to $20.65.

“The government is also reducing the cost of medicines by up to a half, which will benefit nearly 42,000 people in Robertson.”

Recent NAISDA graduates

Source: NSW Government Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Member for Robertson Gordon Reid discuss the budget’s health implications with staff at Providence Medical, Umina

It's disappointing that despite NSW Labor promising no cuts to the Active Kids Voucher program prior to the election, they are now refusing to rule out axing the program

When many families are already doing it tough with cost-of-living pressures, cutting the Active Kids Voucher program will not only hurt household budgets, we will see less kids involved in our local sports

Sign our petition today to stop Labor’s cuts to Active Kids Vouchers!

Footballers don special boots for brighter futures

Students from The Entrance Campus of Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College participated in the Boots for Brighter Futures Program and presented boots painted with Aboriginal designs to Sydney Roosters players for the Indigenous Round of the National Rugby League.

Now in its fifth year, Boots for Brighter Futures is an initiative of the Cultural Choice Association and supported by the NRL, helping to support young Indigenous people in establishing strong mental health and positive lifestyle habits.

It’s a program that celebrates culture, with Indigenous students sharing their stories

through their artwork designs painted on boots which were then presented to nominated

NRL players for them to wear during last week’s Indigenous Round of the NRL competition.

The Tuggerah Lakes students teamed up with others from Belmont High School and

together they designed and painted 24 pairs of boots.

The young artists were

Harris joins in walk to school

Hundreds of Central Coast children took part in National Walk Safely to School Day on Friday, May 19, joined by parents, carers – and even some community leaders.

The annual event encourages adults to walk to school with primary school-age children to promote the health and environmental benefits of walking and help develop healthy habits from an early

age.

Taking place during National Road Safety Week (May 14–21), the day also aims to help children learn vital roadcrossing skills.

Member for Wyong David Harris thought he would get in on the action and joined Warnervale Public School students and teachers for the event.

“Regular exercise, like walking to and from school,

School visits a priority for MP Gordon Reid

encouraged to share their stories and express their sense of pride and identity through their work on the boots.

Many elected to incorporate motifs that reflected a player’s journey to the NRL, as well as symbols that displayed their cultural heritage.

Students were thrilled to personally present their artwork-on-boots to Sydney Roosters players to wear in their May 19 match against St George Illawarra Dragons, who snatched a last-minute victory 24-22.

The boots will be auctioned through the Cultural Choice Association, which will invest all the proceeds into the Boots for Brighter Futures Program.

Sue Murray

has a positive impact on anxiety and depression which is why we encourage primary school aged children to walk for National Walk Safely to School Day,” Harris said.

“There has never been a better time to build walking into our kids’ daily routine, by walking to and from school, not just today but every day.”

Source: Member for Wyong David Harris

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid has been out and about visiting schools in the region to outline his educational background and give insights into the workings of Parliament.

Recent school visits included Kincumber High School and Our Lady Star of the Sea at Terrigal.

At Kincumber High, Reid gave a whole-of-school assembly some background and insight into his own education.

At Our Lady Star of the Sea, he gave Year 5 and 6 students a civics lesson ahead of their excursion to Canberra to learn

about Australia’s levels of government.

Reid said school visits were one of the many highlights of being a Member of Parliament.

“It is always a joy to visit local schools and speak with our younger generations about my education background and also about Australia’s levels of government,” he said.

“I was impressed by the students’ knowledge of government and how each level has responsibility for different areas in the community.

“The students have been paying good attention in class and that was evident in their

understanding.

“They were able to ask questions and pretend to be journalists at a news conference.

“It was quite nice to share a little bit about who I am, where I grew up, and importantly, what NRL team I support (The Rabbitohs).”

Schools wanting to organise a visit by Reid to discuss government in Australia should call 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au to arrange.

Source:

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid listens to questions from students at Our Lady Star of the Sea, Terrigal

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid gives an address at Kincumber High School

Member for Wyong David Harris walks to school with Warnervale Public School students and teachers

Lilliana Jarrett with Jared Waerea-Hargreaves

Kaitlin Guise with Nathan Brown

My daylight-saving evening gardening has also gone with the turning of the calendar page.

What I’d rather be doing at these times is curling up with a good plant book while I acclimatise to winter and save the gardening for the middle part of the day when I can feel my toes and fingers!

Here’s a roundup of my favourite plant books and why I love them.

Maybe you’ll agree with my pick or perhaps you will have a few of your own to suggest to me.

Cassell’s Popular Gardening

Edited by D.T. Fish

All ancient gardening and plant books are worth having, especially those hiding old newspaper cuttings of tips, daffodil bulb prices and interesting plant facts that I can’t live without.

While the books themselves do sometimes contain chemicalbased instructions that are not

suitable for the green-hearted, they still overwhelmingly share good down-to-earth wisdom that never goes out of fashion.

Leafing through the illustrations is something else again.

I want to frame every page but not at the expense of losing these gems of botanical history.

My edition of Cassell’s Popular Gardening was printed in 1900 and three other gardeners at least have owned this book.

I know because the Reverend Watkins, David Johnston and Grace Lee have all beautifully signed it.

This book also used to live in Port Stephens I think because there’s a xeroxed, typed copy of the Rose Farm care sheet for Proteas tucked inside.

I share the challenges of cabbage moth with one of the early book owners because I see they clipped out some good advice from a newspaper in 1941 but I don’t know where to find the suggested Lever’s Dry

Soap these days to spray on my plants to get rid of them.

Cassell’s Popular Gardening is a beautiful old weighty book that is filled with divine etchings of gardening techniques, plants, and horticultural structures.

There are whimsical colour plates throughout that hopefully your found copy will still have intact.

The Flower Hunter: The Remarkable Life of Ellis Rowan Christine & Michael MortonEvans

If you love art, true stories of daring and innovation and plants, then have I got a book for you.

Christine & Michael MortonEvans have done great justice to the retelling of this woman’s brilliant life.

At the age of 70 Ellis went to the New Guinea jungles to search out and document the 72 known species of the Bird of Paradise plant.

Easel, paints, sketch book,

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.

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

Help Make a Permaculture Sculpture with Bel - 9am – 3pm Saturday 27th May

Local artist and Permaculture Central Coast member, Belinda Buck, (Bel) is coordinating the creation of a wonderful sculpture on behalf of PCC for the Ephemeral Sculpture Exhibition that is part of the Five Lands Walk. The theme for the work is pollinators and the working title is “Aussie Beezy Bodies”.

For more details: events.humanitix.com/help-make-a-permaculture-sculpture-with-bel

Friends of COSS (Coastal Open Space System) Workshop and Community

Environment Network Plant Sale - Saturday 3rd June Plant Sale 9am – 12pm. COSS

Talk from 10am

Want to know more about our COSS lands on the Central Coast? Would like to help protect these important pieces of our environment? Come to Wildplant Community Nursery’s Sale and learn more. UoN Ourimbah Campus, Loop Road, Ourimbah.

Terrarium Workshop - Saturday, 10 June 2023, 11am-12.30pm at Burbank House & Garden, 443 The Entrance Rd, Erina Heights.

Learn to design and make a closed glass terrarium to take home, complete with living plants and ornament to create interest. You’ll learn how they work so you can make more at home, and how to care for them so they last. Everything you need to participate is provided on the day, along with a warming brew from our in-house cafe, The Leafy Green. This workshop is designed for beginners and for those who want to improve their processes.

To book, call 43 655 396

Australiana Trivia Night with East Gosford Community Garden - Saturday 10th June, 6:30pm at East Gosford Progress Hall

Support one of our wonderful community gardens. A fun night with cash prizes for winning table and other great prizes.

Tickets at door or book at: www.trybooking.com

journals, alone.

At 70. Oh, and it was during World War I.

Makes our weekend travels for rare houseplants seem not so outlandish at all.

She won the houseplant game decades ago.

Seriously, this is a wonderfully inspiring book of botanical adventures and the life of a plant lover very well lived.

While you will find images of some of Ellis Rowan’s artwork within, go and seek out collections of her work (online or in books) as they are stunning.

Often criticized for not being scientifically correct in her work at times, Ellis nevertheless had an eye for highlighting the drama of nature and it stirred a great interest in naturalism in her time.

The Little Veggie Patch CoHow to grow food in small spaces

Fabian Capomoilla and Mat Pember

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

cheralyn cheralyn.darcey

This wonderfully designed food-gardening book was a huge hit when it was released in 2011 and I am still in adoration with all its fans.

My copy from that year is falling apart, it is that well-loved.

A gardening book written by two friends, peppered with images, advice, recipes and tips from their family and friends, The Little Veggie Patch Co makes it feel as if you are having a conversation with your gardening neighbours. The layout is excellent, starting off with simple, good advice on how to look after and create soil, compost, and garden beds for the very beginner and to remind the more experienced of us of what we need to be doing. Then a large selection of vegetables is presented, each with an in-depth exploration of their gardening needs to ensure you get the very best out of every crop.

Flick through for inspiration

but it’s also the perfect edible garden manual.

Costa’s World: Gardening for the Soil, the Soul and the Suburbs

Costa Georgiadis

A relatively new book on the block, this gardening and earthcare resource from the beloved host of ABC TV’s Gardening Australia is for everyone who has even though about plants and the world around them.

I find it an excellent permaculture guide as it is filled with parallel thinking to this form of living and gardening.

A warm introduction to gardening, a heart-affirming resource for the more experienced and a book I truly believe should sit in every Aussie home.

As a snuggle-down read, it’s filled with delightful illustrations, lots of vinaigrettes of tips and thoughts all rolled together with Costa’s uplifting exuberance and cheerfulness.

Plants in 10“ Black Pots

Plants in 8“ Orange Pots

Plants in 6“ Yellow Pots

Plants in 4“ Brown or White Pots

I don’t know about you, but I take a while to get used to winter, especially gardening

Central Coast Council has put its support behind the national Sport4All program as the first local government area to sign up to the program in NSW.

Sport4All aims to help sporting clubs and schools become more accessible and inclusive to support people with disability to have choice and control over where and how they would like to participate in sport.

The program has been commissioned and funded by the Australian Government and is delivered by Get Skilled Access, a Disability Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) founded by Paralympian Dylan Alcott in 2017.

Alcott says sport not only changed his life – it saved it.

Keeping the Umina Bunnies bouncing

Umina Junior Rugby League Football Club has received more than $4,600 as part of the NSW Government’s 2022-23 Local Sport Grant Program to upgrade the club webpage and communication channels for the Bouncing Bunnies teams.

Umina Bouncing Bunnies is an early skills development program for boys and girls aged three to five.

It is an initiative by volunteer Dean Young, who is a local footy player and works with the Central Coast Roosters Development Program.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the funds would enable the Club to flourish with the creation of an easy-to useonline registration system.

“The Bunnies are so much more than the joy of the kids on the field,” she said.

“The happiness and pride on the parents’ faces watching their young Bunnies train is what sport is all about.”

Umina Junior Rugby League Football Club Secretary Melinda Michie said the club’s focus was to engage the community in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

“Our footy community is a diverse and inclusive one and

Council backs all-inclusive sports program

“I was just like my big brother Zack, who doesn’t have a disability, and wanted to play sport,” he said.

“That’s why we developed Sport4All so that people with disability can take part in sport when, where and how they choose.”

Alcott said participating in sport is every Australian’s right, not a privilege and this included the 4.5 million Australians who had a disability.

“That’s a lot of people who want to play or participate in sport and so your school or club needs to be inclusive and ready to embrace people with disability,” he said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said he was proud Central Coast Council was the first Council in NSW to support the

Pesticide Use Notice

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) advises that the following |pesticide is proposed for use in the Mangrove Mountain areas.

The pesticide fipronil will be used for the euthanasia of wild European honey bees within the Varroa mite emergency eradication zone in the Mangrove Mountain area during the period from early June 2023 for up to 12 months.

This work is strictly controlled by NSW DPI, in accordance with an Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority permit [PER84929v2].

The bait stations will be clearly signposted and all directions on these signs should be followed.

For further information regarding this notice visit dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa

program.

“This is something that’s reflected in our annual grants programs, where Council

NOTICE

supports clubs and community spaces to adapt their facilities and equipment to become more accessible and inclusive

Application AT36983 has been made by Kelly Marie Robinson and Shaun Anthony Robinson (‘Applicant’) for a title pursuant to Part 6A of the Real Property Act 1900 (NSW) (‘Act’) (possessory title) in respect of the undermentioned land:

• Property situate 19 Pandora Parade, Noraville

• Being land referred to in Folio of the Register 201/26394

• In the Local Government Area Central Coast, Parish of Wallarah and County of Northumberland. The Applicant claims title by possession adverse to Joy Eileen Florence Smythe, their successors and assigns. The Registrar-General intends to grant this application on the expiration of one month from the date of publication of this notice, unless before the expiration of that time period an objection is lodged in the form of a caveat pursuant to section 74F(3) of the Act.

Enquiries may be made at NSW Land Registry Services

Level 30, 175 Liverpool Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

Enquiries: Legal Registry Services, Tel: (02) 8776 3575

(Ref: JS LEG4 AT36983)

Email: ldr@nswlrs.com.au

for the community,” he said.

“This program is also in line with Council’s own Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2021-2025, which is about having a socially connected community.

“Council completely supports the benefits of enabling people with a disability to have choice and control on how they want to participate in sport.”

Also, in line with Council’s DIAP is increasing employment of people with disability in meaningful roles at Council and in the community, Hart said.

“A person with a disability and a connection to sport will be employed within Council part-time to help support the program by engaging with local sporting clubs and

welcoming families through this pathway is our hope,” she said.

The 2023 Program began early this month and runs for two terms.

Each 45-minute session includes skill, fitness and teamwork activities provided by instructors through Little Rugby Central Coast to keep the young ones active and improve their motor skills.

To register go to https:// uminabunniesjrlfc.com.au or Facebook www.facebook.com /uminabunnies2013 for details.

Source:

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

schools,” he said.

Council’s Director Community Recreation and Services, Melanie Smith, said the person who filled the role would bring their real-life experiences to the clubs and schools to create a strong link and help achieve the purpose of Sport4All and the benefits and opportunities the program could bring.

“We’re really excited to be taking part in the program of Sport4All and the change this will hopefully bring in removing barriers for people with disability wanting to participate in sport.”

For more information visit the Sport4All program webpage.

Source: Central Coast Council

Aerial Spraying of Bitou Bush

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning to conduct aerial spraying of Bitou Bush using Metsulfuron Methyl 600WG. This program will occur for one day (weather permitting) between Thursday June 1 and Wednesday June 28 2023, in Bouddi National Park along the coastline from Macmasters Beach to Lobster Beach.

Visitors are advised that the reserve will be closed from 6am till 5pm the day of spraying.

Signs will be posted notifying people of the exact date and time of closures.

For more information, please contact the Girrakool NPWS office on (02) 4320 4200.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with the Bouncing Bunnies

Dylan Alcott says sport should be accessible to all

UNDER SECTION 45E(2) OF THE REAL PROPERTY ACT 1900 (NSW) – APPLICATION FOR POSSESSORY TITLE TO LAND

Avoca wins match of day to remain undefeated

RUGBY

Following Round 6 action in the Central Coast rugby competition on May 20, Terrigal maintains a onepoint lead on the points tally over Avoca Beach and The Razorbacks, who are still tied for second place a third of the way though the season.

The match of the day at Heazlett Park saw Avoca Beach and Gosford play out a onesided contest which saw Avoca Beach defeat Gosford 43-10. It was the home team’s day, with Avoca Beach starting well and continuing to play good effective rugby for the entire 80 minutes.

Although Gosford scored the first try in the match, Avoca Beach broke away to lead 26-5 going into half-time.

Avoca Beach posted a further 17 points in the second half while Gosford was able to respond with only a single try.

Best players for Avoca Beach were centre Michael Houssenloge, who crossed for two tries, prop Matt Ritchie, halfback Mitchell Magrath and centre Alex Halls.

Gosford had several good performers but none were better than halfback Ben Shelley, lock Mitch Parker and five-eight Josh McGlynn.

Avoca Beach remains undefeated so far.

Terrigal recorded a huge victory at The Haven Oval, defeating Woy Woy 92-7.

Taking the lead very early, Terrigal continued to pile on the points for the entire match, maintaining its undefeated record.

The home team had leapt to

Ourimbah/Palm Grove Fox Control Program

Greater Sydney Local Land Services will be leading an integrated fox control program in the Central Coast with support from private landholders. This coordinated program is part of ongoing work to reduce pest animal numbers and their impacts on primary production and native wildlife in these areas.

1080 fox ground baits will be used on the listed properties below from 3 June 2023 to 18 June 2023

Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Please restrain all domestic pets and working dogs and ensure they do not enter the baiting locations during this time. In the event of accidental poisoning of domestic pets seek immediate veterinary assistance.

a 38-0 lead at the half-time break and posted a further 54 points in the second stanza while Woy Woy scored only one converted try.

Best players for Terrigal were lock Macklan Collins, winger Blake Irwin, who crossed for four individual tries, and fullback Frankie Webber.

Woy Woy had no answer to the home side attack but was well served by flankers Bruce Folau and Casey Woodford and five-eight Corby Delaforce.

The match at Woongarrah Oval saw home team Warnervale record a 47-24 victory over neighbours The Lakes.

The first half was an even struggle at first, with a converted try to each team seeing a seven-all scoreline.

But as the first stanza proceeded, Warnervale

crossed for two more tries to take the half-time score to 2112.

Warnervale scored again early in the second half to lead 28-12 and managed to maintain the lead, despite points scored by both teams in the last quarter.

Best players for Warnervale were props Jacob Gaul and Veipueki Siale, No.8 Tevita Piukala, and hooker Kye Haslam.

The Lakes were best served by No. 8 Geoff Hiku, lock Savenaca Tubudra, prop Connor Starkey and five-eight Damien Lawson.

The home team advantage did Hornsby few favours at Mark Taylor Oval, with The Razorbacks recording a 26-7 victory.

The teams were locked at seven-all when a serious injury

to a Hornsby player delayed the match for quite a while.

When play continued, The Razorbacks quickly dominated.

Best players for the Razorbacks were winger Jye Clack, prop Jordan Clark and No.8 Lachlan Peruch, while for Hornsby their best efforts were put in by flanker Harry Volemost, winger Jack O’Connor, who scored both of Hornsby’s tries, and lock Aaron Duncan.

The points table has Terrigal on 25, closely followed by Avoca Beach and The Razorbacks, both on 24.

Warnervale is sitting on 19, Gosford on 15, Woy Woy on six, Hornsby on four and The Lakes on two.

Women’s 10s matches saw wins to Warnervale, Hornsby and Terrigal.

In Round 7 on May 27, the match of the day will see home

team Warnervale take on Avoca Beach at Woongarrah Oval. Terrigal will host Gosford at The Haven Oval, Woy Woy will host The Lakes at Woy Woy Oval and Hornsby will travel to Walters Park, Boolaroo, to take on Lake Macquarie.

In the President’s Cup, the Bay Rugby Club meets the Razorbacks at Joseph Banks Oval, while Gosford/Kariong travels to take on Terrigal, and Warnervale is at home to Avoca Beach.

In the Women’s 10s competition Warnervale will host Avoca Beach at Woongarrah Oval, The Lakes meets Woy Woy at Woy Woy Oval and Hornsby and The Razorbacks will meet at Boolaroo.

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

If you would like to participate in future programs or have any questions regarding the

Source: Central Coast Rugby

Michael Houssenloge crosses for one of his two tries

Avoca Beach defeated Gosford 43-10

Terrigal recorded a huge victory at The Haven Oval, defeating Woy Woy 92-7

Photo: Scott Gardiner Photography

Photo: David Lyon

Photo: David Lyon

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners are in the Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final after a glorious 2-0 win at home in Gosford in front of a record crowd of local football fans on Saturday night, May 20.

The win in the second semifinal against Adelaide gives the Mariners a 4-1 win on aggregate after defeating Adelaide in Adelaide last weekend.

Mariners earn grand final berth in front of record crowd in Gosford

This will be the Central Coast team’s fifth A-league Grand Final appearance in the club’s history, a fact not lost on the thousands of loyal supporters who have followed the club since day one.

Local supporter Erin Morrow said in a tweet: “One of the greatest nights in Mariners history at Industree Group Stadium. So proud of the lads, this club and the 20059 Coasties who attended”.

The win also is a testament to the club’s new owner Richard

Peil and the culture he has nurtured since taking the majority ownership of the struggling outfit a year ago.

Peil backed the transition of former Mariners captain Nick Montgomery to the lead coaching position.

Montgomery was characteristically circumspect about the win, reminding commentators it was a result of the 193 training sessions the team had done to this point.

“We had a vision that we

could get to the grand final and believed we could challenge everybody in the league,” he said.

“We had people writing us off and we even sold some of our best players; it’s normal and is what this club is about.

“I think we’ve proved that it doesn’t matter what happens, we want the club to be sustainable [and] we want the fan base to grow.”

The fan base has certainly responded to the winning

culture of the team.

A record home crowd of over 20,000 people attended the home semi-final game giving all those associated with football a warm feeling for a code that is often ignored by the mainstream media.

The Mariners will now play Melbourne City on June 3 at ComBank Stadium following City’s 4-0 defeat of Sydney FC at AAMI Stadium.

The last time the Mariners were in the grand final was in

2013 when they beat Western Sydney Wanderers 2-0 at Sydney Football Stadium.

The A-League Mens Grand Final will be held in Sydney following the league’s controversial decision to stage the finals in Sydney for five years following a commercial deal done with the NSW Government.

For a full blow-by-blow match report see the Central Coast Mariners website.

David Abrahams

Natural bodybuilding the perfect stress relief

BODYBUILDING

Working with disadvantaged youth can have its challenges, but Central Coast resident Mani Olmedo has found Natural Bodybuilding to be the perfect self-care and stress relief hobby.

Olmedo, who has lived on the Coast for the past eight years, has worked with disadvantaged youth for more than 18 years.

He currently works in residential care, supporting young homeless teenagers who identify as high needs and is also a health promotion officer/support worker to NDIS clients who have limitations.

“I have been involved in the sport of Natural Bodybuilding

for over 13 years and represent myself as a life time natural bodybuilder,” he said.

“I have competed with natural bodybuilding federations such as ANB (Australian Natural Bodybuilding), INBA (International Natural Bodybuilding Association) and, more recently, ICN (IcompeteNatural).

“My trainer, friend and coach Sasho Ognenovski is both an international and national natural champion and well respected and recognised here in Australia.

“He supports me with diet, posing, training and contest preparation.”

In 2017, Olmedo won the ICN Northcoast Newcastle Classic Men’s Masters over 40 years

title, then the following year he won the same division with the ANB, first for the South Coast and then at the state championships.

“I also won the Men’s Open under 65kg weight class division, so I currently hold two NSW titles,” he said.

With his next goal competing in the Australian Natural Bodybuilding competition, Olmedo placed third at the national titles with the ICN federation in the Men’s Open division aged over 40.

Most recently, Olmedo took third place in the same nationals division this month. “I would like to continue to represent the Central Coast and its elite athletes and be a positive role model to our

youth,” he said.

“I am a strong advocate for natural healthy living and I always encourage and promote natural drug free sport.

“My achievements are proof that hard work, persistence and dedication is the only key to success and there are no shortcuts in life.

“I am fortunate in my role as a social worker (that I can) educate on the harms of using drugs and steroids, nutrition, health and wellbeing.”

Olmedo said he hoped his story would empower youth and help them to make good choices.

Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium before kick-off

Source: Manuel Olmedo

Mani Olmedo finds the sport ideal for self-care and stress relief

Photo: CoastFM Football