Coast Community News 392

Plugging those potholes

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty and Member for Wyong, David Harris, has urged Central Coast residents to stop and reflect during Reconciliation Week (May 27-June 3).

The dates of Reconciliation Week mark the successful 1967 referendum on May 27 and the historic 1992 High Court Mabo decision on Native Title on June 3.

The 1967 Referendum was to determine whether two references in the Australian Constitution, which discriminated against Aboriginal people, should be removed.

It saw the highest Yes vote ever recorded in a Federal referendum,

with 90.77 per cent voting for change.

‘It is interesting to note that because the majority of parliamentarians supported the proposed amendment,

a No case was never formulated for presentation as part of the referendum campaign,” Harris said.

The Constitution was changed,

giving formal effect to the referendum result, on August 10, 1967.

The theme for this year’s Reconciliation Week is Be a Voice for Generations, challenging Australians to find ways to support reconciliation in their everyday lives.

Reconciliation Australia outlines tangible ways you can promote reconciliation including incorporating Acknowledgment of Country into meetings, gathering or events, supporting First Nations businesses and learning more about our rich Indigenous history.

Continued page 5

Minister David Harris

with indigenous veterans Norman Moffatt, Avron Lincoln, Mick Pittman and Bob Williams in Wyong

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MPs have a cuppa to support Cancer Council

The Central Coast’s two Federal MPs were seen raising a cup together at Parliament House on May 25 – a cup of tea that is.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Member for Dobell Emma McBride were taking part in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, along with other Federal MPs, to support Cancer Council Australia.

The annual fundraising event raises money and support for Cancer Council Australia and its work.

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 Material that is offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.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

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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.

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Ross Barry, Publisher

This year’s goal is to raise over $12M to fund further research, prevention and support services for those affected by cancer.

Reid said it is a tremendous campaign to support those affected by cancer and their families.

“I wish to thank every person who has contributed to this year’s fundraising goal and those who have hosted a morning tea at their home, workplace, or community organisation,” he said.

“It is great to be able to bring people together, share stories,

have a laugh, and enjoy a cup of tea, while raising funds for an important cause

“One in two Australians are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, and funds raised for Cancer Council Australia go directly into research, prevention, and support

services for those affected.”

McBride was equally happy to take part.

“I am proud to support organisations like the Cancer Council who are strong advocates for research and awareness on the Central Coast and across Australia,” she said.

This year’s campaign has so far seen almost $4.7M raised through 21,712 mornings teas.

There is still time to play your part.

You can help support the campaign for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea by hosting a morning tea during May and June.

For more information and to register, visit: www. biggestmorningtea.com.au.

Terry Collins

Accolades for Marine Rescue volunteers

Two members of Central Coast Marine Rescue have been honoured at the Central Coast National Volunteer Week ceremony.

Unit Commander, Ian Morrow, was presented with the Volunteer Manager 2023 award, while youngest member, Will Shaddock, received a High Commendation in the Young Volunteer of the Year division.

When presented with the award in front of about 100 other Central Coast volunteers, Morrow paid tribute to “a great executive team at the unit who support me”.

“A successful unit commander is only as good as the support given by his management team and members, and I have been very fortunate to have a

IN MEMORIAM

CLARK, Joseph Sidney

15.02.1925 – 04.05.2023

Aged 98 years

Late of Kanwal

Loved husband of June (dec.). Father of Robyn, Jeff and Alison. Grandfather of 9, and Great-Grandfather of 28.

Family and friends of Sid are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the Rose Chapel at Palmdale Lawn Cemetery & Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, Palmdale, on Tuesday 06 June 2023, commencing at 11.00 am.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Guide Dogs Association of NSW & ACT.

wonderful and competent unit behind me,” he said. Shaddock, 18, who joined the local unit when he was 16, said

IN MEMORIAM

WRIGHT, William Loftus

18.01.1933 – 27.05.2023

Aged 90 years

Late of Peregian Springs QLD Formerly of Gorokan

Loved husband of Emilia (dec.). Father of Bernadette and David. Grandfather of Jessica, Ethan, Ruby, Tiason and Joey. Family and friends of William are invited to attend his funeral service to be held in the Rose Chapel at Palmdale Lawn Cemetery & Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, Palmdale, on Tuesday 06 June 2023 commencing at 10.00 am.

Marine Rescue’s motto is “saving lives on the water”, and, apart from great camaraderie, “it’s wonderful to know we’re helping local boaties.”

Executive Officer of Volunteering Central Coast, Dianne Moy, thanked all local volunteer organisations for taking the time to nominate

volunteers and teams for a Volunteering Central Coast Award.

“We are so impressed by the stories you have shared about some of the incredible volunteers we have here on the Central Coast,” she said.

Source: Marine Rescue Central Coast

AERIAL INSPECTIONS ALONG TRANSMISSION LINES USING HELICOPTERS

Transgrid will be carrying out aerial inspections using helicopters along transmission lines in the towns of and areas of Central Mangrove, Jilliby, Peats Ridge and Yarramalong for one day between 29/05/23 and 09/06/23

The team will take photos of transmission towers and conductors to record their condition. This work will result in increased noise levels, which may affect some livestock.

If you would like further information or to discuss these works, please contact our Community Information Line on 1800 222 537 or contact us via community@transgrid.com.au

Ian Morrow (third from left) and Will Shaddock (being held) celebrate the accolades with fellow volunteers

MPs Emma McBride (Dobell) and Gordon Reid (Robertson) enjoy a cuppa at the Biggest Morning Tea at Parliament House

“Sid”

Two-year wage freeze for state MPs and top executives

State MPs on the Central Coast, along with all NSW MPs and senior government executives, will see their wages frozen for two years as the State Government moves to fulfill a major election commitment.

The NSW Cabinet has approved two bills to freeze the pays for two years from July 1 this year.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the Government had acted quickly to prioritise investment into essential services such as schools and hospitals over the “ballooning wages” of government executives.

“Our front-line workers have suffered under wage caps while delivering the critical services that run our state and the Government has clearly shown its investment

priorities,” she said.

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said the Labor Government is looking for all the savings it can make to ensure it has more to invest in frontline public servants.

NSW Treasury estimates the move will save taxpayers around $260M over four years – funds that can instead be invested into essential services like schools and hospitals.

Senior executives covered by the freeze include departmental secretaries, agency chief executive officers, executive office holders, commissioners and judicial officers.

The senior executive and politician pay freeze was supported by both major parties ahead of the March 2023 state election.

One bill will enforce the pay freeze on members of the

Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council via the Parliamentary Remuneration Tribunal.

The Parliamentary Remuneration Amendment Bill 2023 will amend the Parliamentary Remuneration Act 1989 and effectively freeze the basic salary of all parliamentarians – regardless

of their political party – for two years.

The second bill will enact the senior executive freeze via the Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal.

The Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Amendment Bill 2023 will amend the Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Act

1975, and related regulations, to implement the pay freeze for senior executives.

The Statutory and Other Officers Remuneration Tribunal determines the remuneration for senior public servants as well as judicial and non-judicial office holders.

The Government’s bill will prevent the tribunal from awarding any increase in remuneration for two financial years.

Premier Chris Minns said the new Government had inherited a “challenging budget”.

“But budgets are about priorities,” he said.

“Our priority is rebuilding our essential services and investing in frontline workers.”

Special Minister of State John Graham said the bills were about capping the top end of the service to reinvest in front-

Residents ramp up opposition to feedlot

Mangrove Mountain residents have ramped up their opposition to a feedlot development proposed on the corner of Ironbark and Hershon Rds.

With submissions on the controversial proposal set to close on June 6, community members gathered at the Mangrove Mountain Hall on May 27 to reiterate their concerns and facilitate the lodging of submissions.

The Mangrove Mountain Computer Club opened to support community members to make their submissions online to Central Coast Council and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch dropped by to lend an ear and provide technological support to those who needed it.

In true community style, the CWA supplied scones and tea to keep hunger at bay.

The development would house up to 400 cattle in two sheds with many saying it would be unsustainable and unsuitable for the local

community.

Tesch said the community forum provided great insight into what the residents think.

John Dickinson, who owns the lot adjoining the proposed development site, has urged fellow residents to make submissions.

“It is essential that the community comes together and that these objections are put to Council,” he said.

The gathering followed a

community meeting held early in May, where business owner and meeting facilitator Alex

Stewart said the proposal was “completely unsuitable” for a rural and residential area.

“Many established surrounding houses and approved building envelopes would be severely and detrimentally affected by noise, water, dust and odour pollution,” he said.

“While we appreciate the

property owners’ right to lodge a development application, this particular proposal is completely unsuitable for this area and needs to be refused.

“Community members are very open to meeting with the property owner to see if we can discuss other viable options for this parcel of land.

“We wouldn’t put a rocket launching pad in a residential area, so why would we allow a cattle feedlot in one?”

line workers.

“This senior executive and politician wage cap will help us build capacity in the public sector and stop essential workers leaving the state,” he said.

“We value our public service leaders, and the work they do for our government and our state.

“This is a tough decision as we prioritise what is important.

“Twelve years of the Coalition created a ballooning executive wage bill yet a shortage of essential workers.

“The NSW Government offers some of the best pay for senior executives across the public sector nationally.

“Even with the wage freeze, NSW will continue to attract the best public service talent.”

Terry Collins

proposal

It says detailed drainage design and effective erosion and sedimentation controls would ensure all surface water runoff generated was effectively diverted, captured and released.

The SEE says the development proposal meets all recommended noise, dust and odour impacts to surrounding potentially sensitive receptors.

Concerns raised by residents included possible stench and the biosecurity risk of such a high density feed station.

A Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) lodged with the application says the development, on a mostly cleared and elevated vacant parcel of rural land, would have a design capacity for 400 head of cattle at a maximum pen density of about 6.5sqm per head.

A petition objecting to the proposal, which currently has more than 1,820 signatures, is available at https://www. change.org/p/stop-anintensive-cattle-feedlotproposal-mangrovemountain-nsw?source_ location=search.

The petition can also be hand-signed at the Mangrove Mountain chemist or saddlery. Submissions can be made at eservices.centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/ePathway/Production /Web/GeneralEnquiry/Enquiry DetailView.aspx?Id=1452859.

Terry Collins

The proposed development site Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch listened to residents’ concerns on May 27

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch says the Government is prioritising investment into essential services

Member for The Entrance David Mehan says the move will allow more investment in frontline public servants

Plugging those potholes

As complaints regarding the many potholes throughout the region continue to pour in, many are asking why Central Coast Council keeps filling holes on the same road instead of doing longerterm repairs.

A spokesperson said Council does both over the life cycle of a road and to manage the network in an economic and sustainable way.

“Basic pothole filling is the first level of maintenance to keep the road safe for the public,” the spokesperson said.

“Where potholes consistently re-occur or the road deteriorates further, a more substantial and longer lasting heavy patch repair is considered – based on what has been done to date, the risk profile and what renewal work is planned for that section of the road.

“Our annual road renewal program consists of various

treatments that complete the cycle – from lower cost resurfacing to higher cost road rehabilitation and reconstruction.”

As Council continues to try to keep up with the region’s deteriorating roads, recent pothole works have been undertaken at Blackwall, Dooralong, Gorokan, Killarney Vale, Lemon Tree, Terrigal, The Entrance and Warnervale.

Heavy patching has been undertaken at: Wisemans Ferry Rd, Central Mangrove and Mangrove Mountain; Ourimbah Creek Rd, Ourimbah; Peats Ridge Rd, Peats Ridge; Fleet St, Umina Beach; and Cary St/ Pemmell St/Kinarra Ave, Wyoming.

Road renewal has been taking place at: Bay Rd, Blue

Bay; Eloura Rd, Long Jetty; Glen Rd, Ourimbah; and Yarramalong Rd, Yarramalong.

Unsealed road grading has been undertaken at Mangrove Creek Rd, Green Grove.

Residents are encouraged to report any specific maintenance or safety concerns to Council, which will then be investigated and responded to.

You can lodge reports at https://www.centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/council/contact/onlineservices or by calling 4306 7900 during business hours.

Scheduled road maintenance works can be checked at https://www.centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/council/council-news/ roads-update.

Terry Collins

Reid highlights intersection concerns in Federal parliament

Member for Robertson has taken his campaign for a solution to hazardous traffic conditions at the intersection of Wards Hill Rd and Empire Bay Dr to Federal Parliament.

Reid gave a speech on the escalating issue in the House of Representatives and called on both Central Coast Council and the NSW Government to act.

“The Wards Hill Rd and Empire Bay Dr intersection is not safely managing the level of traffic that passes through it, during morning and afternoon periods,” he said.

“I have met with concerned residents on site and seen for myself the escalating issue.

“Both Central Coast Council and the NSW Government need to act to ensure safety is maintained at this intersection.”

Reid said the situation was creating unsafe driving conditions for many people and causing anguish for residents.

“I have heard and read reports from residents who have been directly involved in car

accidents and the long-term effect that this is having on their lives and on their families,” he told Parliament.

“Residents have also shared stories of their near collisions that have occurred because of the difficult and confusing design of the intersection.

“This intersection simply has become too dangerous for many residents to use.”

Reid said he had met with concerned residents on site during a peak period of the day.

“What I saw confirmed what residents had been telling me,” he said.

“The intersection is not managing current traffic levels and this is causing unsafe conditions for drivers.

“Following on from this meeting, I have written directly to NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison and Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart.

“Residents may not be aware that both of these roads actually

come under the responsibility of different levels of government.

“Empire Bay Dr is the responsibility of the NSW Government and Wards Hill Rd the responsibility of the Central Coast Council.”

Reid said he was determined to bring both of these levels of government together to find a long-term solution.

He said his online petition had been signed by close to 400 people from not only the

immediate surrounding communities but right across the Central Coast region.

“The … intersection handles traffic from residents from the south, including from the Peninsula—areas like Umina, Ettalong and Woy Woy – and residents from the north, including Erina, Terrigal and those central suburbs in Kincumber,” he said.

“The importance of this intersection cannot be understated.”

Reid also gave a shout out to community members who have highlighted residents’ concerns, including Bill Young, Helen Matthews, Jane Leivesley, Samantha Goode and Treveen Brown.

“These residents … have been absolutely outstanding in their advocacy for local issues, but in particular they’ve been outstanding in their advocacy to improve the road network right across the Central Coast, including this most dangerous intersection,” he said.

Reid said speaking about the issue in the House of Representatives would draw much-needed attention and send a strong message to the NSW Government and Central Coast Council.

“I continue to encourage concerned residents in the community to get involved by visiting my website and completing the petition,” he said.

Council is working hard to fill potholes all over the region

Source:

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at the dangerous intersection

Member for Robertson addressed Federal parliament about the Wards Hill Rd intersection

Accolade for off-duty lifesaver following daring rescue

The Entrance Surf Life Saving Club member, Patrick Jacob, has received Surf Life Saving NSW’s Rescue of the Month award following his courageous off-duty rescue of a teenage boy in April.

Jacob was working from home on Monday afternoon, April 17 , when his neighbour called and alerted him to an unfolding incident at the nearby North Entrance Beach.

A group of boys had visited the beach despite the gloomy weather and a 14-year-old was caught in a rip and struggling to stay afloat.

“I was working away in Excel when I got the call, so it certainly startled me into action,” Jacob said.

“I live quite close to the beach and my neighbour had called

her husband first, but he lives a few doors further down and she thought I’d be quicker.

“I grabbed a rescue tube I had at home and ran to the beach, past my neighbour whom I told to ring Triple Zero, towards where the boy’s friends were.

“I couldn’t see what they were pointing at but I went out to sea and followed their directions.”

Eventually, Jacob came across the boy being dumped by the surf and extended the rescue tube he was carrying, keeping a safe distance as the teenager was panicking by this time.

The rip had carried them into a precarious position, and it wasn’t going to be easy to get back to shore.

“I said we can’t go in, we’re going to have to go out, and he

wasn’t too thrilled by that but it was our best option,” Jacob said.

He flagged down assistance from lifeguards who were already on scene and co-

ordinating Rescue Water Craft to assist.

In short time, the jet ski collected them from the water, exhausted but okay, and delivered them back to the beach where the young boy was assessed by paramedics.

“It was pretty full on,” Jacob said.

“The lead lifeguard at North Entrance confirmed to me that the kid would have drowned.

“It was an overcast day, no one on the beach whatsoever.

“His friends didn’t call Triple Zero; they were in the water thinking about going in to save him, so it could’ve been so different.

“I’m so glad for the training I received from Janet Lindsay and Peter Cooper.

“They trained me to know what to do in that situation and

Time to stop and reflect, says Harris

Continued from page 1

Events will take place across NSW including community marches, film festivals and Indigenous art exhibitions with details on the Reconciliation Australia website.

“Reconciliation Week is a good time to stop and reflect on

the role each of us can play in creating a shared future of which we can be proud,” Harris said.

“How do we want future generations to remember us?

“Will they look at us and say, ‘they’re the ones who opened themselves up to truth-telling,

who moved us further down the path towards a more just and equitable Australia’?

“I hope so.

“Each of us has the power to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – bringing meaningful conversations and actions to

where we live, work and socialise.

“Your voice holds power.

“Be a voice for generations.”

The week follows National Sorry Day on May 26, when Harris joined Premier Chris Minns in laying a wreath at the Indigenous Veterans

Commemoration at the Anzac Memorial in Sydney.

“National Sorry Day provides us all an opportunity to reflect upon the trauma, pain and injustice caused by the policies of child removal and the ongoing inter-generational impacts of these policies,” they said in a joint statement.

I’m grateful for the support of the volunteers who came down to the beach as it was unfolding and were there as support once we got back to shore.

“Jesse Anderson and Czes Lawicki from North Entrance and Leigh and Dan, the Council lifeguards, were all great.

“It’s good to know within myself how I’d act in this situation as well.

“I’d always wondered if I’d hesitate if the waves were big or if there was no one else around, but I acted in the way I’ve been trained.”

Jacob now goes forward to be considered for the Rescue of the Year at the Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence in August.

Source: Surf Life Saving NSW

“We recognise the Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander peoples across NSW and the courage they show as they continue to lead selfdetermined healing in their families and communities.”

Terry Collins

Vicarious Trauma and Self-Care Workshop

Wednesday 7th June – Commencing at 1.00pm

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

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

Developing Emotional Literacy in Children

Wednesday 16th August – Commencing at 5.00pm

Learn practical tools and strategies to support children in developing the emotional literacy and self-regulation skills necessary to understand and manage their big emotions. This session is suitable for adults who regularly work with children who have experienced grief and loss, such as parents, carers, educators and clinicians.

This presentation will also include an overview of the programs run by Feel The Magic for bereaved children, and information on how to apply for or refer to their programs.

Patrick Jacob with the rescue tube he used on the day

Reid reflects on first year in office

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid has reflected on the performance of the Federal Government, as the Australian Labor Party marks one year in office.

Reid became Robertson’s first Labor MP in almost a decade after achieving a 6.9 per cent swing with preferences at the May 21, 2022, election to oust incumbent Liberal Member Lucy Wicks, who had held the seat since 2013.

The result echoed a nationwide swing of more than six per cent against the Liberal Party, with huge swings to The Greens and the “teal” independent candidates sending a clear message to both major political parties. He said the past 12 months

had seen the Government pass signature pieces of legislation to build a better future for Australians living on the Central Coast.

“The Albanese Labor Government is a government of purpose,” he said.

“We have hit the ground running and we are not slowing

down.

“(We have continued) on the commitments we took to the 2022 election.

“We are delivering cheaper

childcare, cheaper medicines and fee-free TAFE.

“The Federal Government has also legislated its ambitious climate change policy to ensure Australia reduces its greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent and net zero by 2050.”

Reid said the Government was also extending paid parental leave and easing the cost of living.

“Here on the Central Coast, 73,130 people will benefit from our record $3.5B investment in Medicare, by tripling the bulk billing incentive, making it easier to see a doctor when you are sick,” he said.

More locally-based projects were progressing, including the $100M upgrade of Avoca

Stay clear of whales on their way north

Marine Rescue is advising sea-going boaters on the Central Coast not to get too close to whales as they make their annual trip north to warmer waters.

Multiple pods of humpbacks have been spotted off the coast from the Royal National Park south of Sydney to Seal Rocks in recent days.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said boaters need to be aware of the marine mammals.

“As we are starting to see the whale migration along the NSW Coast, Marine Rescue is reminding boaters that there are rules and restrictions in

place for the wellbeing of the animal but also the safety of boaters,” he said.

“Boaters are not to come within 100m of a whale or 300m of a whale and a calf.

“If a whale does surface near your vessel it is important that you cut your motors and slow down to a safe speed.”

Barrell is also reminding skippers not to approach whales from behind or to wait in front of their path.

The Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner said no more than three vessels at a time should approach whales and skippers should wait their turn.

“There will be plenty of time

to enjoy these magnificent creatures during the migration season,” he said.

“As always if you are heading out on the water to view the whales please make sure that you Log On and Log Off with your local Marine Rescue base either via the Marine Rescue app or over VHF marine radio Channel 16.”

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

Dr through Kincumber and sporting facility upgrades, he said.

“The region is on track to receive two Medicare Urgent Care Clinics that will take pressure off our emergency departments and primary health network,” he said.

“Our region’s $40M local roads package is also steaming ahead and I looking forward to local roads receiving muchneeded renewals.”

Bill relief of up to $650 from July 1 and changes to the instant asset write-off threshold would help support Central Coast businesses, he said.

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

New book outlines history of CWA on Coast

As NSW Country Women’s Association (CWA) members all over the state celebrated 100 years of serving their communities last year, Woy Woy branch member Johanna Reygersberg was working on a history of the CWA on the Central Coast.

There are 13 branches in the Northumberland Group, incorporating the Central Coast, Hornsby and Morisset branches.

Some branches are small, with just over 10 members; others have more than 50 members.

As branches throughout the region celebrated the 100-year milestone, Lisarow/Ourimbah, Somersby, Tuggerah Lakes and Woy Woy branches also celebrated their 90th bithdays. Terrigal Branch is the oldest in the group and celebrated its 92nd birthday.

To celebrate the special centenary year Reygersberg

researched and collated the history of all the Northumberland branches; 26 in total, of which 13 branches are still blooming and growing.

“I became quite intrigued when I started reading about the beginning of some branches,” she said.

“There was so much going on in the early years.

“So I wanted to know more about the other branches’ beginnings.

“How did they start, and why?

“Who were those women who cooked and knitted, held craft or cooking demonstrations and card games afternoons, all raising money to start the branches?

“They often started Rest Rooms and Baby Health Centres as well.

“Ninety years ago there was … no help with baby care.

“Here on the Coast, transport was limited and women had to travel by foot or by boat to get to the CWA Rest and Baby Health Centres.

“Women were often very isolated and thus enjoyed the friendship of other members very much on these occasions.

“The mothers were taught baby health care and also learned from each other, sharing crafts and cookery skills.

“They liked social gatherings and knew how to throw a big party.

“Their stories are fascinating and my appreciation of what these women did over the years grew and grew.

“So, I began a two-year journey of research and writing.

“I do hope that reading the CWA branches’ history will bring insight and as much enjoyment as it did me.”

This group history book is available by ordering online at thejo@optusnet.com.au for $15 plus postage.

Delivery or pick-up could be arranged.

Source: Northumberland Group CWA

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid celebrates the anniversary of the 2022 Federal election

Source: Marine Rescue NSW

Whales heading north for warmer waters

Johanna Reygersberg signs copies of her new book

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Ladies learn to do it themselves

A three-hour do-it-yourself plumbing workshop for women was held at Mingaletta in Umina Beach on Friday, May 19, cohosted by Benchworks founder Jenn Rochford. Participants in the workshop learnt essential jobs like how to change a tap washer and how to stop a leaking cistern. They also learnt what questions to ask the plumber so that they know they’re getting the best bang for their buck.

“By learning to change their own tap washers the ladies can save $320,” said volunteer trainer Ian Campbell, who was accompanied by his son Shane. Rochford started the endeavour to provide a safe place for women who have

experienced domestic violence, but due to popular demand has now opened up the workshops to all women.

“Women are often lower income earners, time poor, have less access to resources, are mums and/or single

mums,” she said. “They want to feel empowered to fix things themselves around

their own homes.”

Benchworks also holds other DIY workshops including indoor painting and car maintenance. They are a safe space for women of all ages and backgrounds – a fun place to learn and explore.

Workshop participant Helen Stenbeck said she attended because she wanted to learn something out of her comfort zone.

“I also wanted to be a good role model for my daughter and show her that plumbing can be a life skill everyone can learn,” she said.

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch congratulated Rochford and the Umina Community group for the initiative.

“It is important to open up affordable opportunities for

Coast Shelter promotes reconciliation

Coast Shelter will host its annual reconciliation event to promote unity among the community at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium at Gosford on Thursday, June 1.

The event, open to all age groups and cultural backgrounds, will focus on the importance of cultural exchange, mutual respect and understanding and emphasise the vital role we all have in healing and building our communities.

It will feature a Welcome to Country by respected elder Gavi Duncan of Nyanga Walang Aboriginal Cultural Services, a smoking ceremony led by Tim Selwyn of Girri Girra Aboriginal Experiences and cultural

performances by The Glen and The Glen for Women.

There will also be a few moments of reflection from Coast Shelter CEO Michael Starr and Coast Shelter First Nations Co-ordinator Peter Downie.

The gathering aims to provide Central Coast residents with an insight into the culture of local Aboriginal communities while also creating an opportunity for all community members to come together and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage as a proud part of a shared national identity. Downie looks forward to bringing the community closer together through the event.

women to learn the basic skills to maintain their own homes to increase independence and not have to rely on others for assistance, especially when budgets are tight,” Tesch said.

“I am so thrilled to see community members grab these opportunities and happy that (people) are sharing their skills whilst empowering other women.

“This is what community is all about.”

For further information on coming workshops email benchworks@uminacommunity group.com.au or join the Facebook Group www. facebook.com/groups/709400 457515582.

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

“We’re so excited to be hosting this event and watching it grow over the years to come,” he said.

“We strongly believe that when we come together through events like this we can create a world with more understanding and unified communities.”

The day will start with a march from Coast Shelter’s Community Centre at 346 Mann St at 10am, through the streets of Gosford, to Industree Group Stadium. The reconciliation event will begin at 10.30am with members of the community invited to join in.

Photo workshop to express ‘disability pride’

People with disability are invited to join a unique photography project designed to capture their experience of the world and give others more understanding of living with disability.

Photovoice is a five-week photography workshop-project led by not-for-profit organisation, Social Futures –an NDIS partner in the community.

Social Futures Capacity

Building and Engagement Manager Lynda Hope describes Photovoice as a form of photographic storytelling.

“Photovoice explores the concept of ‘disability pride’ and each week participants take a photo connected to a theme that helps them express how they feel,” she said.

The topics the group will discuss include: I love being me

because…; inclusion; courage; and pride.

Photovoice will be run online, so all participants need is a smart phone or a camera and the Zoom video chat app.

“And you don’t even need to be particularly creative to participate,” Hope said.

“You just need to be

comfortable talking and sharing in a small group.

“You will also have the chance to make new friends.

“We will teach you how to use your smart phone or camera with tips and tricks on taking great photos.

“And you will need a

willingness to learn more about yourself and to share with others.

“Every week participants will then share their photos illustrating that theme and then explain their photo.

“We do this as a group.

“People will feel supported and safe to explore their

thoughts, feelings and perspectives about topics relating to disability that aren’t usually talked about.”

You can learn more about Photovoice by watching this video on the Social Futures website: https://socialfutures. org.au/service/photovoiceshare-the-world-through-

Source: Coast Shelter

your-eyes/ Hope said she wanted to organise a community exhibition of the photos participants were happy to share.

“Thought-provoking photos show the reality of the participants’ lives to the community – they illuminate challenges, celebrate triumphs and hopefully encourage the broader community to have a deeper understanding of the lives of people with disability and the issues that affect them,” she said.

If you are aged 18 years or older and interested in being part of Photovoice – Disability

Pride groups with Social Futures, call 1800 522 679 or email lac@socialfutures.org. au

Source: Social Futures

Volunteer trainer Ian Campbell with course participants

An image the photographer calls Gaslit

An image by one of the participants in Photovoice

Last year’s reconciliation event in Gosford

Coast Connect

Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

New plans for Pelican Park

We’re asking you to vote on the future design of Pelican Park, Woy Woy which has reached the end of its design life. You can have your say on three design concepts that include:

• Traditional play

• Pirate themed play

• Nature play

We want to hear from you on which design you would prefer to replace the current play space.

Vote for your favourite design by 5pm Friday 16 June at yourvoiceourcoast.com/ pelicanparkconcepts

Sewer works underway across the Central Coast

We have recently replaced faulty sections of the sewer rising main at Koowang Rd, Gwandalan to improve reliability and resilience of the sewer system. Our crews carry out water and sewer infrastructure work across our vast networks stretching the entire Coast, servicing over 345,000 residents.

To see further works search, ‘capital works program’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

The life cycle of our roads

You’ve asked us why potholes are filled instead of doing longer term repairs. In short, we do both over the life cycle of a road and to manage the network in an economic and sustainable way. Basic pothole filling is the first level of maintenance but where potholes consistently reoccur, longer lasting heavy patch repair is considered.

Read more FAQs on our website or follow facebook.com/centralcoastcouncil

Apply for a Community Grant program

$900,000 of funding is available across three Grant Programs for local community groups and organisations to deliver projects and events that benefit our community.

Hurry, applications close 30 June for two of the major grant programs. Info and drop-in sessions are also available this month.

To apply and learn more search, ‘grants’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Exciting new job opportunity

Dylan Alcott’s Sport4All program is coming to the Central Coast and aims to help sporting clubs and schools become more accessible and inclusive to support people with disability. We’ve teamed up with Get Skilled Access and are looking to employ a person with a disability and a connection to sport to help lead the program.

To find out more or apply, go to sport4all.com.au

The next Ordinary Council meeting will be held Tuesday 27 June at Wyong Council chambers.

To find out more or register to speak at the upcoming Public Forum on Monday 26 June visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ meetings

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

2023 Harvest Festival

Join us 10-11 June to celebrate the Coast’s hinterland through a range of unique events and experiences.

There are 32 event hubs to visit! See behind the farm gate, live music, paddock to plate experiences and lots more.

View the full program and plan your weekend now.

lovecentralcoast.com/harvest festival

Expressions of interest

Let’s chat about wrack

The Tuggerah Lakes estuary is a unique environment rich in biodiversity, with wrack being an important component of estuarine health – which you have told us is important to you. Join experts and other stakeholders in a reference group to help us develop a new Wrack Management Strategy. Submissions close 4 June.

Apply at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/eoi

Driver fled after Patonga car crash

On Saturday, May 27, a call came through saying people had been trapped in a car accident and members of Pearl Beach Rural Fire Service and Patonga Volunteer Rural Bush Fire Brigade sprang into action.

At about 9pm crews headed out to Patonga Dr, Patonga, the site of the reported crash. When crews arrived they found the vehicle empty and no sign of the driver or any passengers.

With police managing the investigation and recovery of the vehicle, RFS members established traffic control to prevent follow-on incidents or injury to the emergency workers.

Anyone with any information about the incident are urged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: Pearl Beach RFS

Assault at Mariners match

Tuggerah Lakes Police are appealing for community assistance to locate the man pictured who might be able to assist with their inquiries in relation to an assault.

The assault occurred at the Central Coast Mariners game held at the Industree Group Stadium, Gosford, on Saturday, May 20.

Anyone with information about this incident or the male, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

and quote reference number E167756302.

Source: Tuggerah Lakes Police

Police are looking for this man

Police officer charged

A police officer has been charged over alleged domestic violence-related offences.

At about 1pm on Monday, May 29, officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District commenced an investigation following reports of a domestic violence-related assault at a home on the Central Coast. Following inquiries, a 27-year-old man was arrested and taken to Wyong Police Station at about 7pm.

The senior constable, who is

attached to a command in the North West Metropolitan Region, was charged on three counts of common assault and stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm (domestic). He was refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on Tuesday, May 30.

The officer’s employment status is under review.

Source: NSW Police

M1 closed after vehicle caught alight

Two northbound lanes of the M1 were closed on Monday night, May 29, because of a vehicle fire at Jilliby.

The alarm was raised just after 9.30pm and Rural Fire Service crews from Tuggerah and Warnervale, as well as Fire and Rescue from Wyong, found the car well alight when they arrived, and spreading into surrounding bush.

Firefighters used breathing apparatus to safely extinguish the fire and remained afterwards cooling the vehicle before it was removed.

NSW Ambulance crews

Imperial Centre evacuated

Up to 500 people were evacuated from Gosford’s Imperial Centre into Kibble Park on Tuesday, May 30, after a small fire was reported in a stairwell just before 10.30am.

Among evacuees were students from the ET Australia

the centre.

Emergency services, including Fire and Rescue NSW were quickly on the scene, with no injuries reported.

Crews quickly made the scene safe and handed over to

police for investigation, with people allowed back into the centre just after 11am.

Police have commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident, which is being treated as suspicious.

attended and assessed the occupants of the car, with no reported injuries.

The following morning, Tuesday, May 30, Warnervale fire crews were called out again to another car fire on the M1, this time just before the northbound Morisset exit.

Soon after cleaning up, the Warnervale and Tuggerah Rural Fire Service crews were off again; to an accident where a car had driven into a power pole at Hue Hue Rd, Jilliby, causing power outages for several hours in the area.

Police are appealing for information about this accident

Up to 500 people were evacuated into Kibble Park

The driver was attended by paramedics and given the all clear and power was restored after Ausgrid replaced the

power pole.

Sue Murray

Fire crew at car fire at Jilliby

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!

I would like to respond to the articles on page six of CCN 390 – Info session on the Voice to Parliament deemed a success and Greens urge Coasties to vote yes to the Voice.

As I see it, an “information session” on the Voice to Parliament would have a panel representing both sides of the debate.

I can’t read of any “No” advocates being represented.

I wonder, in the discussion were the following points brought up?

There are already 11

The Voice; it’s OK to vote No

Aboriginal MPs in parliament, more than 300 Aboriginal organisations that receive millions of dollars to act (as a Voice).

What about the National Indigenous Australians Agency which says it exists “to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a say in the decisions that affect them”?

If all this hasn’t helped the true Aboriginal community I can’t see what the Voice will do – except fill the pockets of the Aboriginal bureaucrats; it’s unnecessary.

This Voice gives favour to

certain people based on race, separating us from one another.

It creates an “us and them” society; it’s divisive.

This Voice (would be) enshrined in the Constitution and be there forever.

Under freedom of information laws, The National Indigenous Australians Agency was forced to release secret government documents which say: (in simple terms); the Voice forces Australians into a “treaty”; the treaty means Australians pay a percentage of the GDP – that is, a percentage of the entire nation’s economy – to the Voice … every year; and Australians

(would be) forced to pay “rates/ land tax/royalties” to the Voice.

The documents further explain: “ … a Treaty could include a proper say in decision-making, the establishment of a truth commission, reparations, a financial settlement (such as seeking a percentage of GDP), the resolution of land, water and resources issues, recognition of authority and customary law”.

It also says they want to abolish the Australian flag, because it “symbolised the injustices of colonisation”.

A direct quote from these

documents says “Australia got a whole country for nothing, they haven’t even begun to pay for it”.

One of the key advocates of the Voice, and designer of the main Voice model, Tom Calma, said the funding put aside by states for any treaty-making would depend on the number of tribal groups in each jurisdiction, population size and land mass.

But on a national level, he said, the focus needed to remain on the Voice.

“Let’s get the referendum out of the way then focus on agreement making,” he said.

Deeply offensive act by Council

Thank you so much for all your coverage last month of the Anzac Day celebrations and services around the Central Coast.

This is a very important event in our national calendar and it is good to see a print newspaper reporting on it so well and so positively.

I was so disappointed to see that the Navy Veterans Memorial at Copacabana placed there for Anzac Day was vandalised but so pleased that it was cleaned up for the Anzac Day RSL service.

It was an even greater disappointment for me to see that this very classy looking

memorial provided by Roque Hammal and the Navy Veterans was slapped with a big fluoro orange sticker for removal the day immediately after Anzac Day.

While I don’t know all the background and details for the reasons for this I found the fluoro sticker from Central

Coast Council deeply offensive to those of us who have lost relatives or friends at sea or overseas.

Cenotaphs and memorials like this one take the place of the graves and places we can’t visit to remember our loved ones who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

I believe that our local government could have been more sensitive, respectful and discreet and simply asked in private for the memorial to be removed rather than have that ugly sticker placed disrespectfully on the memorial for all to see.

Grace and respect from our

Changing our constitution is a BIG deal and should be brought to the Australian public with intelligent reasoning, not emotive narrative—appealing to the public’s emotions and telling us we need to vote yes to demonstrate our virtue—or coercion from corporations and sporting bodies.

It’s OK to vote NO. We need action from the government for our Aboriginal people, not a Voice.

Email, May 24 Linda Telisman, Umina

local council is what I would like to see rather than heavyhanded over governance. Ignorant and foolish vandals are one thing but our Central Coast Council could do better.

Email, May 26 Stephanie Hall, Copacabana

Administrator and CEO determined to leave their mark

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart and CEO David Farmer are determined to leave their mark on the Coast before they go next year.

They are about to sell off the

last asset they can get their hands on (the former Gosford chambers site) and then will turn their attention to their swan song – the waterfront.

Fortunately the $8.5M the State Labor Government

promised for a feasibility study has not arrived yet.

If it does then it will mark the start of the spending of hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ and ratepayers’ money on a project that at best

No junk mail means just that

Does anyone else have this problem?

We have letterbox signage at our residences that clearly indicate that no unaddressed or advertising material or junk mail is to be put in our boxes.

Despite this, we regularly receive annoying flyers from real estate agents, pizza delivery companies etc on a regular basis.

Complaints to the relevant businesses always result in the pathetic excuse that the problem is with the independent delivery agent.

In Point Clare there is a

pamphlet delivery man who rides a motor bike who ignores the signage and continually puts promotional material in our boxes.

This week, it was for a local real estate agent.

I saw him in the act and attempted to speak to him about his disregard (and disrespect) to our letter box signs.

He knew he was in the wrong and refused to speak to me.

Instead, he accelerated his motorbike and took off around the corner … and in doing so, failed to deliver material to

other houses as he is paid to do.

I again contacted the estate agent who, despite being shown photos of our letterbox signs, offered the novel excuse that “no junk mail signs can be confusing and they can mean people will accept flyers but not bulky material”. Really?

So much for the local residents who are fed up with more useless and unwanted paper advertising being forced on them.

Email, May 26 Gary MacDonald, Point Clare

is laughable and at worst will put the Coast’s ratepayers in debt for many years to come.

Next year when the new councillors are elected, hopefully we will remember that the dire financial situation

which the waterfront will cause is not of their making.

The Administrator waxed lyrical recently that after a soccer match at the stadium the crowds would be able to swarm over to the new

waterfront and have a night of revelry.

Oh dear me, can you just imagine that.

Email, May 26 Geoff Mitchell, Kariong

I write in reference to the letter in Forum CCN392.

I am a disabled 80 year old living in Wyoming.

My local Coles has also shut its express aisle. There are four checkouts, one of which is blocked by a trolley and one (the disabled one) is usually unmanned.

So, the queues for the other two are long.

There seems to be only a few members of staff in the whole store.

What happened to the other members of staff? Have they been sacked?

I now only shop once a fortnight with my carer/ shopper, who will only go through a checkout, like me, and also refuses on principle, to go through the unmanned checkouts.

Life is not easier for the customers, it is very frustrating.

Email, May 26 Fiona Nicholas, Wyoming

ThursGAY celebrates its new home during Pride Month

June is Pride Month and Gosford’s most successful ongoing community popup, ThursGAY, will be celebrating on Thursday, June 8 with a new permanent home at the yet-to-be-opened Fun Haus Factory in the heart of Gosford.

ThursGAY will be a soft launch for a new community creative and social hub, which will

officially open in July – one of many arts programs and targeted activations to revitalise Gosford and support a growing night-time economy, increase spaces and access for creatives and build contemporary culture which is vibrant and engaging.

“ThursGay is the free monthly LGBTQIA+ and friends local social night which has over the past 18 months brought weeknight crowds to Gosford,”

creative director Glitta Supernova said.

“(We have) collaborated with half a dozen Gosford venues for a revolving door of paid artists, performers and DJs and been the training ground for artists working around venues on the Central Coast and beyond.

“Everyone aged 18 and over are welcome on Thursday, June 8 as we come full circle with ThursGAY finding its own

Special screening at ecovillage

Narara Ecovillage will host a special screening of The Giants in the village hall at 7pm on Saturday, June 3.

The film explores the intertwined fates of trees and humans in a poetic portrait of environmentalist Bob Brown and the forest.

It draws on Brown’s 50 years of inspiring activism, from the Franklin campaign for Tasmania’s last wild river, to today’s battle for the Tarkine rainforest.

Told in his own words, Brown’s story is interwoven with the extraordinary life cycle of Australia’s giant trees, brought to the screen with stunning cinematography and immersive animated forest landscapes.

The screening will be a benefit for the important forest conservation work of the Bob Brown Foundation.

Coffee Cart treats will be available from 6.30pm.

To book tickets go to https:// defendthegiants.org/event/thegiants-screening-narara-nsw.

home.

“The very special soft launch will allow the community to test drive the space with dinner options from local businesses and an extraordinary line up of performers including DJ Queerio serving up 100 per cent gay music from 6.30pm to

10.30pm.

“This will be an evening to enjoy epic drag, burlesque and art performances.”

The Pride Month celebration will feature an incredible array of professional, emerging artists including local legends Belle, MIDAS, Diva D-Lish, and

Proudly affiliated with the 5

MC Fox Pflueger. The night will also be a sneak peek into Coastal Twist 2023 branding.

The event will be held at the Fun Haus Factory, 124 Donnison St, Gosford.

Source: Fun Haus

Walk, this June ETTALONG BEACH hosts a

Sounds of live jazz @ Galleria Ettalong Beach

MIDAS (left) and featured artist Fox Pflueger (right) will perform on the night

Photography: Tim Levy

Source: Narara Ecovillage Bob Brown explores the intertwined fates of humans and trees in The Giants

Central Coast artist Minka Gillian is set to open her solo exhibition, Super Bloom, at Gosford Regional Gallery on Friday, June 2.

The Point Clare resident has been a full-time artist since 2004, specialising in textile techniques and having exhibited her work both in Australia and Japan.

“I like to use unusual materials in my work,” she said.

“They might be found objects – materials and household items people might normally throw out such as net fruit bags, cables, electrical wire and even fishing line.

“I also use a lot of second-

Super Bloom opens at regional gallery

hand haberdashery and am a frequent visitor to The Sewing Basket at Kincumber.”

For Gillian, the period of COVID lockdowns was an artistic boon.

“It was a depressing time, but art is something that really helped me through that,” she said.

“I found that the time where we all had to stay at home and think about our lives during the pandemic was actually a very fruitful time for me.

“The normal everyday routine was changed and I started being more playful, with some of the pressure off.

“I experimented a lot more

and took up painting more seriously.

“I found it very freeing.”

The result is Super Bloom –an exciting mix of sculptures, installations and paintings.

The name comes from a rare phenomenon where wildflowers in the desert bloom all at once after a long period of drought.

It is also the name of one of the featured pieces, which includes all manner of materials including some which were given to Gillian after one of her friends passed away from COVID.

“He was a bower bird and a fashion designer and had collected all sorts of things like the plastic rings you find around jars,” she said.

“I have included some of those in my sculpture as a nod to him.”

Also included in the exhibition is Mind Garden, an installation of more than 80 hanging sculptures which work together as a whole.

“It is a glimpse into my mind and some of my thoughts and feelings,” Gillian said.

“I have exhibited it previously but each time it changes and grows with new sculptures.

“I plan to keep adding to it through my lifetime, evolving it constantly.”

Super Bloom, in the gallery foyer space, will open at 6pm on Friday, June 2, and remain on show until July 18.

Long weekend fun at Pearl Beach

Pearl Beach has some special events lined up for the June long weekend.

Nestled between Brisbane Water National Park and Broken Bay, the village offers a variety of recreational activities from enjoying the beach to bushwalking and experiencing the natural bushland of Crommelin Native Arboretum. The beachside town holds regular community activities.

There will be a Garage Sale Market on Saturday, June 10, from 9am-2pm in the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall.

More than 20 stalls will be selling a variety of pre-loved vintage clothes, bric-a-brac, jewellery, collectables, furniture, homewares and toys.

There will also be a sausage sizzle, and raffle.

On Sunday, June 11, from 8.30am-10am the Monthly

Community Breakfast and local Growers Market will be held. Enjoy a sausage sizzle and buy from a variety of homegrown vegetables, fruit and pastries at the Memorial Hall. For more information on what’s happening at Pearl Beach check out pearlbeachprogress.org.au.

Terry Collins

Minka Gillian with some of her work

Source: Pearl Beach Progress Association

To celebrate Bastille Day, Avoca Beach Theatre will turn on An Evening in Paris featuring the romance of France with songs from Edith Piaf, Charles Trenet, Aznavour and many more.

A French/Australian chanteuse accordionist based in Sydney will be performing a repertoire from her sold-out London West End show.

Since the release of her debut album La Musique, Emma Hamilton has toured the world, not only opening for guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel, but enticing audiences with her own blend of French and jazz-

Romance of France comes to Avoca Beach

inspired music. Her raspy enveloping voice transports the audience to another era while her vocals dance and plays with her undeniably catchy, fresh songs, right through to French classics which she sings with luscious authenticity and passion.

Hamilton is accompanied by her brother Thomas, whose musical sophistication is showcased through outstanding musicianship on a number of musical instruments, namely piano.

Her original music is laced with retro undertones, world music and pop as it draws

inspiration from anything from Piaf to Dr. John.

The brother and sister mingle their honeyed vocal tones with harmonies that leaves you guessing which is which.

This show, bubbling with fun will elevate your senses, taking you to another time and place and leave you humming the songs for the rest of the week.

Bastille Day with Emma Hamilton will be on Friday, July 14, from 7.30-9.30pm at Avoca Beach Theatre.

The Coral Snakes drift into Gosford

Dave Graney has reunited with the original members of The Coral Snakes for a 30th anniversary tour of their 1993 hit record Night of The Wolverine and will appear at Drifter’s Wharf, Gosford, on Saturday, August 26.

Joining Graney an the 30th anniversary tour are Clare Moore on drums, Rod Hayward on guitar and Robin Casinader on violin and keyboards.

The four recorded Night Of

The Wolverine in 1993 and will be joined on the tour by Stu Thomas on the bass.

Dave Graney and The Coral Snakes made their own way through the 90s, producing four albums with wit, flash and weirdness.

They had ambition, power and style and were standouts of festivals happening at the time.

They were regular performers on national TV, sold enough for a Soft n Sexy Gold Disc and

were nominated for and won a couple of ARIA awards.

Coinciding with the tour, Graney is releasing a book of his complete lyrics covering his career and projects.

The tour will also see the first ever release of Wolverine on vinyl – the album was only released previously on CD.

The August 26 show will start at 8pm.

Book on the Drifter’s Wharf website.

Terry Collins

Dave Graney and The Coral Snakes

Source: Emma Hamilton

Emma Hamilton brings a touch of France to Avoca Beach

Philippa Kaye is one of three local authors who will launch their new books at Kincumber Library on June 1 as part of the Words on the Waves Writers Festival.

In 1984, hairstyles were big, skirts were short, and every girl – and some boys – was watching Michael Hutchence swing his gorgeous hips.

Kaye’s debut novel, Girl Detectives Just Wanna Have Fun, takes the reader back to the 80s when there was no COVID, no social media and the environment was nowhere near in crisis.

Life was all about reading Cleo magazine and having fun.

Girl Detectives Just Wanna Have Fun is a cosy mystery with romance and follows protagonist, Birdie Mealing, whose uncle goes missing.

Detective Herb Lawson would

Three new books to launch at Kincumber

like her to leave the serious investigating to him, but when it comes to Birdie and her determination, he’s got Buckley’s chance.

Birdie has to contend with shady council members, a sleazy film producer, an intriguing crime boss, a weekend stopover in Terrigal, shoulder pads and her own heart as she and her friends try and discover what happened to her beloved uncle.

Originally from southwest Sydney, Kaye has lived on the Central Coast for just over 20 years.

She lives with her husband and three children and has experience teaching in primary, secondary and tertiary settings.

She currently teaches secondary English and lectures at the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus.

Her great aunt was an

Olympian, her dad invented Pavlova Magic and in her spare time she paints pictures on the wall.

Her first published work, Jack’s Bike, featured in The NSW School Magazine and her

short story, And We Run, features in BAD Sydney WestWords Crime Anthology. “Because I have three jobs, I have to really focus on my writing, which I do, religiously, one day a week,” she said.

“I also write when I can on weekends and during the school and uni holidays.

“In the Christmas holidays I wrote 40,000 words, which is about half a novel.

“I wrote Girl Detectives Just Wanna Have Fun while we were in and out of lockdown, there were bushfires and Trump was in power.

“The world around us was overwhelming.

“I wanted people to be able to escape their troubles and get lost in a fun story, a slice of romance and a bit of a mystery to solve.

“Plus, the 80s was such a great moment in history to drop Birdie and her friends into.”

Also launching their books on the night are L.L. Hunter and Hazel Paton.

L.L. Hunter is the bestselling author of more than 50

Rocwater to headline at Brackets and Jam

published works.

Her novel House of Fire and Blood is an epic fantasy romance about two babies, born with the blood of witches – one of darkness, one of light.

A former high school teacher of English, modern history and languages, Hazel Paton but now turns her hand to storytelling.

Her novel, The Missing Years, tells the story of two brothers – a priest and a detective in the bleak famine of Paris and the relative abundance of rural France as they face two enemies – the occupying Germans and their own past. The launch will take place on Thursday, June 1, at Kincumber Library from 6pm to 7.15pm with doors opening at 5.30pm. For more details see the Words on the Waves website.

Terry Collins

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.

Brackets and Jam returns to Kincumba Mountain on Saturday, June 3, with the amazing Rocwater band to play two sets.

After more than a decade away, Rocwater returnsto the stage in 2023 for exclusive local shows.

Their spontaneous reunion show in February 2023 at Long Jetty was such a hit with fans, old and new alike, that they couldn’t stop at just one.

Where better to relive the

magic all over again than at their old “stomping” ground up Kincumba Mountain, where they spent a week recording their self-titled album back in 2007.

The band holds a deep connection with the beautiful surrounds and mud-brick hall atop the mountain.

With a unique blend of musical genres absorbed into their songs, Rocwater delivers homegrown music that’s both timeless

Tea Cosy Expo

and mature, while entertaining their audiences with an infectious energy and joy.

Their music delivers a sweet blend of flavours – a serve of Beatlesque melody, raw acoustic-rock and the texture of emotive folk ballads, all served on a base of locally-sourced Central Coast blues and roots.

The day will get underway at noon, with Kaijin Solo’s dream band, The Backbeats.

The Backbeats have a unique take on blues-based rock.

Formed recently by guitarist, singer and songwriter Kaijin Solo, the band also includes Rhys Meyer on vocals and keys and Ash Feder on drums.

The Backbeats offer an interplay between the keys and guitar, energised by the drum work of Ash Feder which brings a new fresh sound to the band.

Next on the bill will be Velvet Blue, with Corina Jones on vocals.

Jones has been singing since she was five. Her music teacher father taught her to sing harmonies with the whole family around the old-style piano.

With her mother being a highly talented dancer and singer and her parents performing together as professional entertainers, music was in her blood.

Jones went on to sing professionally with various bands, most notably taking over as a singer in the Rivershack Blues Band after Karise Eden left to go on ( and win) The Voice. She was with Rivershack for four years before forming her own band, Velvet Blue – a sixmember band with two girls on vocal harmonies.

Following COVID lockdowns, Jones formed the new Velvet Blue Trio, with Peter Kavanagh (Kav) on guitar and Larry Daley on percussion.

The Velvet Blue Trio is influenced by the blues, folk and rock traditions and love to throw in a few originals to add some spice.

Rocwater will round out the day with two sets.

Attendees should bring their own picnic, chairs and blanket, with the fun to move inside if raining.

Philippa Kaye with her debut novel

Source: Brackets and Jam

Rocwater is set to return to the mountain

Kaijin Solo and The Backbeats Velvet Blue

Edible garden trail funds community projects

Following the success of the 2022 Central Coast Edible Garden Trail, funds raised through ticket sales are now directly benefitting community projects.

After putting some funds aside for the 2023 Trail, organisers were left with $6,000 to invest back into the community.

“Our aim to help community gardens and disadvantaged young people on the Coast is being realised,” a spokesperson said.

“As a project of Permaculture Central Coast we’ve been able to draw on a wealth of knowledge and a healthy network to create an outreach program as well as give a direct donation to each community garden.”

The community outreach program has been designed by Sue Bradley of In8lygood and SWAMP Central Coast.

Collaboration has been key with 15 organisations involved, including the Central Coast Edible Garden Trail, Permaculture Central Coast, nine community gardens, You Connect, Options Disability and Synergy Permaculture.

It includes sessions at nine community gardens, with

permaculture teachers Kerrie Anderson and Matt Silavant facilitating hands-on workshops for You Connect and Options Disability participants.

The first session, held on Tuesday, May 2, took place at Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden, where participants built hugelkultur beds.

A hugelkultur bed is a gardening technique used to create raised beds using logs, branches and other woody material.

Starting with layers of wooden logs, then large sticks and branches then smaller sticks, participants layered mushroom compost, coffee grounds donated by local cafes, beautiful chunky compost made on-site by community garden volunteers and finally finished off with finely sieved compost to create a nutrient rich and free draining growing medium which was planted out with herbs and edible flowers.

“It was an engaging and lively session with lots of laughs and smiles as a diverse group of people built a productive growing space,” Anderson said.

“During a mid-session tea break, we enjoyed freshly squeezed guava juice made

from guavas harvested in the community garden, juiced by a volunteer and brought back to the garden to share.”

Participants said the skills and techniques they had learned could now be applied in their own gardens, especially as the hugelkultur beds had the benefit of requiring less soil to establish.

The second session was held at Wyoming Eco Garden on Tuesday, May 9.

“We had a great couple of hours refuelling a pre-existing raised bed, which was recently harvested with the no-dig gardening style,” Silavant said.

“The participants had great fun joking and laughing while they learnt the ins and outs of preparing and setting up a nodig garden, getting their gloved hands dirty throughout the workshop.

“No blood or tears were shed but a good time was shared.”

With seven more sessions to run across the Coast over the next eight weeks, Anderson and Silavant will be sharing more exciting skills and permaculture techniques.

Other community gardens involved in the program include Wyoming Eco Garden, Wyong Community Garden, Narara

Eco Village, SWAMP Central Coast, Bateau Bay Community Garden, Kariong Eco Garden, East Gosford Community Garden and Kincumber Eco Garden.

“Permaculture Central Coast is committed to caring for the earth, caring for people, and the fair share of resources,” CEO Clara Peto said.

“We are delighted to support this program which helps the participants connect with our environment and each other.

“The Edible Garden Trail and Permaculture Central Coast are not just about growing food but also about growing community and we are looking forward to seeing what other initiatives we can grow together next year.”

The Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden run by PEG at 85 Moana St has regular working bees every Thursday and on the second Saturday and last Sunday of each month, all starting at 8.30am with all welcome.

You Connect is a not-for-profit organisation which supports people who live with a disability, have complex behaviours and/ or have a mental health diagnosis that impacts their day-to-day functioning.

Options Disability Support offers flexible and structured living, work, social and recreational supports for adults with a disability.

Synergy Permaculture is run by Kerrie Anderson who is a permaculture and meditation teacher and is passionate about influencing others to make informed choices for a more sustainable future.

Matt Silavant is a site supervisor at Options Disability, focusing on connecting with community and nature to smash NDIS and personal goals.

Permaculture Central Coast is an enthusiastic group of volunteers who work together to encourage more people on the NSW Central Coast to learn, practise and teach permaculture.

The Central Coast Edible Garden Trail is a project of Permaculture Central Coast and is a ticketed, self-guided weekend event.

This year it will be held on October 21-22.

More details are available at centralcoastediblegardentrail. org.au.

Source: Permaculture Central Coast

The no dig garden beds workshop at Wyoming Eco Garden

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

Fill

Missing Link Solution:

The Central Coast’s inaugural film festival, Coastal Surge, is set to take place from 5pm on Thursday, June 29, at Avoca Beach Theatre.

Last year, five filmmakers on the Coast were awarded funding grants by Creative Art Central from Central Coast Council.

With those grants, three new films were created.

Each film was made by filmmakers local to the Central

Coastal Surge film festival coming to Avoca

Coast, shot entirely on the Central Coast, and with only a couple of exceptions, with Central Coast locals for the cast, the crew and even the musicians who scored the films.

The three films to be shown are Kaye Harrison’s documentary Music Central; Toni Houston and Sarah Beard’s documentary, Bouddi Wild Swim; and Amelia Foxton and Glenn Fraser’s comedic-horror film, Mother Tongue.

Breathing new life into classic hits of INXS

After years touring the globe, The Australian INXS Show is returning to home shores for an extensive run of concerts including The Art House at Wyong on July 27.

The six-piece outfit formed from the seed of an idea planted a decade ago and has since performed an INXS theatre experience in Dubai, India, Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand and Hong Kong.

Over the next year the show will play concerts in every state, bringing faithful recreations of INXS’s extensive back catalogue, ensuring that the spirit of the band lives on.

The legendary vocals of the late Michael Hutchence are channelled by the explosive and flamboyant Dellacoma Rio.

The globe-trotting singer is joined by the guitarist and saxophonist Rob Moody, who not only takes on the role of Kirk Pengilly, but first created The Australian INXS Show a decade ago as a tribute to his love of both INXS and the classic music of the 1980s.

The group’s decades of experience is rounded out by the addition of in-demand drummer Noel Tenny (as Jon Farriss), prolific bass player Sam McAinch (as Garry Gary Beers), veteran keyboardist

Adrian Sorgini (as Andrew Farriss), and guitarist Adam Heath (as Tim Farriss), who has not only toured with Eurogliders, but even opened for music

legend Elton John. Describing the band’s show as “energetic, breathtaking and packed full of fun times for all”, Rio recalls that his own

natural likeness to Michael Hutchence has been a constant source of inspiration.

“It’s been an absolute dream come true with this band,” he said.

“Playing the INXS songs, the way we do, to people who have connected so deeply with these songs is a real blessing.”

He and the rest of the band hope to provide and inspire the same level of amazement and excitement that INXS themselves did for more than 35 years.

“Michael and the band left such an indelible mark on Australian culture, so it just felt

at Avoca.

The films are each about 35 minutes long, and there will be live music by local musicians, red carpet photos, filmmaker Q&As and a mixer with the cast and crew following each film.

Tickets are available at https://www. avocabeachtheatre.com.au/ films-and-events/coastalsurge-film-festival/.

natural to work on a show that honours his memory,” Rio said.

“I often say from the stage that we want to make the audience feel how they felt when they first heard or saw INXS back in the day and that is truly what our aim is.

“We don’t just play the songs, we want to bring the same energy and passion that Michael and the band brought.

“We’ve been crafting this show for several years now and we’re excited to be able to bring it to so many INXS fans across the country.”

Source: On The Map PR

Playing conjurer Brian in Mother Tongue is Stephen Hunter, who played Bombur the dwarf in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit Trilogy and will take part in a Q&A following the screening

Source: Amelia Foxton

still from the comedic horror movie Mother Tongue featuring Stephen Hunter

The Australian INXS Show is returning to home shores

Lake House, a 1935 heritage-listed building, will present a dramatic contrast if plans are approved for a $102M development on adjacent land for 414 residential apartments and 11 retail spaces across six buildings ranging from six to nine storeys.

Now a restaurant café, Lake House was originally built as part of the Pinehurst Boarding House holiday complex but despite these development plans it will retain its prominence on the corner of The Entrance Rd and Oakland Ave as a freestanding architectural relic from the early family holiday phase of life at The Entrance.

Lake House is one of several heritage-listed sites considered in a Heritage Assessment Report accompanying a development application for the 19,294sqm site comprising 15 lots from 9-33 The Entrance Rd.

Others include the boat shed and Norfolk Island pines (10 The Entrance Rd) along the Tuggerah Lake foreshore which the report says have historical significance because of their long association to fish and fishing personalities since the establishment of the town.

Protection for an uncommon example of an inter-war

Business & Property

Dramatic contrast from old to new development

bungalow at 5 Bent St, about 90m southeast of the proposed development, has also been considered along with a shop and residence at 1 Coral St, which the report says is a rare surviving example in the area of a corner shop and residence on the same lot with distinctive original features.

Another consideration was the impact on the Oakland Avenue Heritage Conservation Area where there are good examples of mid-20th century cottages and gardens built up until about 1950 and still largely intact, retaining the historical setting and character.

The Assessment Report says “the proposed development will not result in any direct or indirect adverse impacts on the significance of the heritage items in the vicinity”.

“As no works are proposed to Lake House itself, the key issue to be considered in determining any potential impacts on the heritage item are those arising from the visual impacts of the proposed development within and adjacent to 11-29 The Entrance Rd.

“These principles are based on controlling the heights and horizontal separation for new buildings adjacent to and within the visual context of the heritage item to mitigate any scale disparity that would

compromise its heritage significance and setting.”

The mixed-use proposal consists of six buildings, five of which are residential and one comprising serviced apartments potentially for a hotel.

Plans include 414 residential apartments, 45 serviced apartments, 11 ground floor retail/food and beverage tenancies and a gymnasium, and 853 parking spaces across two separate excavated basements – one of which will be three level and the other two level.

The developer is seeking approval from Central Coast Council to vary the building height which is set at 28m under the Central Coast Local Environment Plan 2023.

The proposed buildings range from six to nine storeys across the project and overreach in parts to 30.9m (a 10.36 per cent variation) and 34.15m (21.96 per cent variation).

Public feedback on the DA/619/2023 closes on Friday, June 23. It can be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker website.

Sue Murray

Proposed traffic calming

PROPOSED FULLY MOUNTABLE ROUNDABOUT

Toowoon Bay Road and Watkins Street, Long Jetty

Central Coast Council advises that, pursuant to Section 116 of the Roads Act 1993 and in accordance with the authority delegated to it by Transport for NSW, it proposes to construct a fully mountable roundabout at the intersection of Toowoon Bay Road and Watkins Street, Long Jetty.

This traffic calming device is designed to encourage motorists to maintain reduced speeds, provide improved traffic circulation and a safer road environment for all road users. This proposal will also improve safety for pedestrians crossing each road by incorporating pedestrian refuges on each side of the intersection.

Members of the community are entitled to submit written comments relating to the proposed work, from 5 June to 2 July 2023. Submissions should be addressed to the undersigned, quoting Folder F2022/01146.

A plan of the proposed works will be available for inspection by members of the community, at Council’s Administration Building in Wyong, Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4.30pm (excluding public holidays), during the above 28-day period.

Your attention is also drawn to the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, which allows for public access to Council documents.

David Farmer Chief Executive Officer March 2023

The proposed development surrounding the historic Lake House

Location of the proposed development site at The Entrance

Land reclassification “last nail in coffin” of performing arts centre

Central Coast Council is pushing ahead with plans to reclassify the site of the former Gosford chambers to operational to pave the way for a vertical TAFE on the Mann St site.

Friends of the Performing Arts Precinct has described the move as the “last nail in the coffin” of a long-promised performing arts centre for the city.

Administrator Rik Hart resolved at the May 23 meeting to proceed with reclassifying the land, which incorporates the former chambers building and land behind it extending to Henry Parry Dr, to free it up for future development.

It was originally acquired early in 2019 to form part of a proposed Gosford Cultural Precinct which was to include a regional library and

performing arts centre on a huge site bounded by Mann St, Henry Parry Dr and Donnison St.

Later that year, Council announced plans for the cultural precinct would be abandoned and it would push ahead with a stand-alone regional library in Donnison St.

In 2020 as part of a review of assets, Council determined the land was surplus to its needs and determined it would need to be reclassified from community to operational land to facilitate non-Council uses.

In December 2021 it was announced the land would be bought by the State Government to house a vertical TAFE building in the heart of Gosford, with Council and the Government entering into a conditional contract of sale for the site on February 24 this

year, just prior to commencement of the caretaker period ahead of the NSW State election.

The new Labor Government, elected on March 25, is yet to confirm that it will proceed with the sale, saying only that talks are in progress.

In resolving to proceed with reclassification of the site from community to operational, Administrator Hart said if the TAFE project did not proceed, an alternative purchaser would be sought such as a government agency, a public institution or a developer committed to creating a landmark development to contribute to the revitalisation of the Gosford CBD.

Public exhibition of the reclassification proposal in March this year attracted five submissions of objection and

one in support.

Friends of Performing Arts

Precinct (FOPAP) has called on Hart to “be mindful of the needs of future generations on the Coast and stop the sell-off of the last remaining prime public land in the Gosford CBD”.

Chair Barney Waters said reclassifying the land would be the “last nail in the coffin of a long-promised performing arts centre for the city”.

“If Rik Hart doesn’t know the history of this community’s fight to have a performing arts centre in Gosford then he needs to do his homework,” Waters said.

He said Mann St was an ideal location for a future performing arts precinct and the perfect solution to breathing life into the CBD.

“Administrator Rik Hart will be leaving town in September

2024, but he should leave the community with at least enough public land in Mann St to develop into the performing arts centre we have long dreamed of and campaigned for,” he said.

“A performing arts precinct in the middle of Gosford is a nobrainer for the city’s day and night-time economy.

“It would be a wonderful legacy for future generations and is the cultural infrastructure that the population of the Central Coast deserves and needs.

“I have heard Mr Hart say that the Council’s finances are back in the black so why does he need to agree to reclassify and sell this land?

“It is a public asset.

“I’m not pretending that we will get a performing arts precinct in the next 12 months

Business awards nominations open

Gosford Erina Business Chamber (GEBC) is calling for nominations for its annual Business Awards.

“The 2023 Business Awards recognise growth, entrepreneurship and celebrates business success across NSW,” a spokesperson said.

“Entering business awards is a rewarding experience.

“It provides an opportunity for businesses to reflect on the goals, strategies and vision which have shaped business success, and the insights they gain will help drive growth and

Last year’s winners of the GEBC Business Awards

Up We Go Developments has submitted plans to Central Coast Council for six strata townhouses at 33 Greenacre Ave, Lake Munmorah.

The developer proposes the two-storey dwellings will be the traditional townhouse style – one with four bedrooms and three bathrooms and the others to be three bedrooms with two

but at least he could leave us with that option.

“The last thing Gosford needs is to have this prime land sold off to another private developer so it can sit and decay for the next 20 years.”

Hart said if Council’s lofty plans for revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront come to fruition, there was a space in the planning proposal which “could well be” a performance space.

Many community advocates have doubts about the future of the waterfront redevelopment project, with $8.5M having been pledged by the State Government for geotechnical and initial planning work, but the millions of dollars needed for the actual construction work are yet to be secured.

Terry Collins

the longevity of their business.”

GEBC is calling for nominations for the 2023 Annual Business Awards to recognise the achievements of businesses, employees and leaders.

“The Awards are open to all business in the Chamber’s service area, not just members as has been the process in the past,” the spokesperson said.

“This change will make the Awards process a genuine reflection of the quality and depth that businesses on the Central Coast provide in many varied categories.”

Categories for the 2023

Six townhouses planned for Greenacre Ave

bathrooms.

Each residence will have a single garage and there will be four visitor car parking spaces at the rear of the development.

The proposed strata subdivision of the development will include lots one to six comprising the units and courtyards and the remaining area of the 1,689sqm site will be common property, with

almost a third of the site being landscaped area.

A property adjoining the rear northern boundary – 17 Fay St – also forms part of the development due to stormwater disposal to the street via a stormwater pipe and easement along the eastern boundary.

The piped stormwater drainage system will run to the north through a new easement

created over 17 Fay St and discharge into Council’s piped drainage system at the pit in the front of 17 Fay St.

The DA/636/2023 is on public exhibition at Central Coast Council’s website and submissions will be accepted close of business on Friday, June 9.

Awards are: Excellence in International Business; Excellence in Large Business; Excellence in Small Business; Excellence in Sustainability; Outstanding Business Leader; Outstanding Community Organisation; Outstanding Employee; Outstanding Start Up; Outstanding Visitor Experience; and Outstanding Young Business Leader. Nominations can be made at https://gosford. awardsplatform.com/ and close on June 30.

Source: GEBC

Sue Murray Artist’s impression of the townhouse development

An artist’s impression of the proposed TAFE building – but will it go ahead?

A map showing the lots to be reclassified

Tips for prepping your portfolio for your tax return

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

Investors can minimise their tax bill through a variety of strategies.

However, Mark McShane, from Chrysalis Lifestyle Planning, says it’s important to consider whether your income in the following financial year is likely to be higher or lower.

He cautions against looking at tax savings in isolation.

“Consider the bigger picture of the planning pie.

"A strategy that provides a big deduction in one year may be questionable in terms of how it impacts your long-term goals.”

He recommends discussing investment-based tax strategies with both your financial planner and accountant.

If you own listed assets, such as shares and exchange traded funds, there may still be time for a portfolio review.

“Given the annus horribilis we saw across sharemarkets in 2022, now could be a time to restructure a portfolio,” says McShane.

“It’s not a strategy you may

want to use every year, but following a period of volatility it’s an opportunity to review gains and losses to see if you can make some desired portfolio changes tax-effectively.

"This allows the capital losses on any poor performers to be offset against realised capital gains.”

‘Wash sales’ cause trouble H&R Block's Mark Chapman cautions against selling shares at a loss and buying them back in the new tax year.

“The ATO takes a hard line against so-called ‘wash sales’.

"This refers to the sale of an asset before the year end and the purchase of a substantially identical asset immediately after the year end.”

The ATO regards the purchase and the sale as effectively the same asset, ruling that anti-avoidance provisions may be applied to cancel any tax benefits with penalties possibly applied.

All this highlights the need to

speak to a professional when it comes to making key portfolio changes with a view to managing tax.

If you’re thinking about joining a dividend reinvestment plan to reduce tax, think again. Dividends still need to be declared in your current year’s tax return even if you didn’t receive them as a cash payment.

“Dividend reinvestment is more of a compounding strategy rather than a way to trim tax,” says McShane.

Investors may be able to bump up a tax refund by prepaying expenses related to

investments, such as interest on a margin loan or investment property loan.

Crypto investors take care Research by Roy Morgan in 2022 found more than one million Australians own cryptocurrencies, with self-managed super funds collectively holding $1496 million

And it's very much on the tax office’s radar.

Capital gains tax applies to each disposal of crypto, calculated on the difference between the amount you paid for the cryptocurrency and the amount you disposed of it for.

Any profit is subject to

CGT, which can potentially be discounted by 50% if you hold your crypto asset for more than 12 months.

What constitutes a “disposal” can be a source of confusion – it’s not just about converting crypto back to Aussie dollars.

Chapman says a disposal can be triggered by exchanging one cryptocurrency for another, and even using cryptocurrency to pay for goods or services or simply giving it away.

If you buy and sell cryptocurrency on a regular basis with a view to making a profit, you could be regarded as a trader.

If this applies, the profits on

Dividends forecast to keep flowing into investors' pockets

Australian companies paid out a record $97.7 billion in dividends to investors during 2022, the latest Global Dividend Index from Janus Henderson has revealed.

While underlying growth in Aussie dividends was up 9.8% over the year, it lagged

the strong global underlying growth rate of 13.9%.

According to the report, growth was held back by a weaker performance among Australian miners, with the sector unable to replicate its record payouts from 2021 as a result of lower prices.

BHP was an exception on this front, though, notching an 8% year-on-year increase, which helped the company cement its place on the index as the world’s biggest dividend payer for a second straight year.

Meanwhile, fellow miner Rio Tinto came in as the seventh

largest dividend payer.

Looking forward into 2023, Janus Henderson client portfolio manager Jane Shoemake forecasts that global dividends could record further growth, even with the prospect of an economic slowdown.

“We do expect dividend

growth to slow from the exceptionally high levels enjoyed in 2022, but we believe dividends are still likely to edge higher in 2023,” she says.

“Energy dividends are unlikely to repeat the sharp increases of 2022, while mining payouts are likely to fall further.

disposal of the cryptocurrency will not be subject to CGT.

Instead, Chapman says it will be assessable income as you’ll be regarded as being in business as a buyer/seller of cryptocurrency.

It can be a fine line between being an investor and a trader.

Broadly, if you are turning over your crypto every few days chasing profits and are running a business-like structure (for example, with a registered business name and an Australian business number), you could be seen as a trader.

If you are holding the cryptocurrency with a view to long-term gain, you are likely to be viewed as an investor.

The ATO matches data from Australian designated service providers (DSPs) against its own records to identify people who may be tempted to fudge their crypto profits.

“If what you disclose on your tax return doesn’t match the data the ATO has received from DSPs, you can expect a ‘please explain’ letter at the very least,” warns Chapman.

“This makes it much harder to hide behind the anonymity that was previously one of the hallmarks of cryptocurrency.”

"Among financials, banks may benefit from wider margins, thanks to higher interest rates, so further dividend growth is certainly possible, subject to prudent planning for rising levels of bad loans as economic growth slows.”

NICOLA FIELD

ELIOT HASTIE

Help tackle the wrack

Central Coast Council is on the lookout for residents who would like to join a community and stakeholder reference group to help develop a new Tuggerah Lakes Wrack Management Strategy as part of the development of the Tuggerah Lakes Coastal Management Program (CMP).

Three reference group meetings will be held at Council’s Wyong administration building on June 14, July 5 and July 26, with participants needing to attend all three meetings.

Wrack is aquatic plant and vegetation material (including seagrass) which is moved about by wind and washes on to foreshores or collects in shallow areas.

A Council spokesperson said that in Tuggerah Lakes wrack was largely made up of detached seagrass leaves and macroalgae and was an important component of estuarine health.

Council has collected 5,621 cubic metres of wrack and algae from the shores of Tuggerah Lakes this year –which is equivalent to filling two Olympic-sized swimming

pools.

An approximate total of 100,000 cubic metres has been collected in the past 10 years.

Council’s wrack collection permit is strictly licenced by the NSW Government and does not allow for the harm or removal of live seagrass, protected foreshore vegetation or the disturbance of nutrient rich sediment.

During periods of low lake water levels, the tops of live seagrass can be seen floating across the water surface which can look like it is dead and in need of collection.

“There is a wrack collection program in place, but developing the new Wrack Management Strategy will help ensure Council applies contemporary practices for effective implementation of a holistic and strategic program,” the spokesperson said.

“Wrack management is complex and an ongoing priority for the community.

“A revised approach is required to balance community concerns, physical and financial constraints and environmental needs and challenges.

“Our new strategy will be

Picklum joins Industree Group

Currently ranked number three in the world, 20-yearold surfing prodigy from Shelly Beach is an elite athlete devoted to being the best surfer in the world.

“Industree Group is incredibly proud to support Molly on her remarkable journey and to have her on board as our new ambassador,” CEO Jon Fleming said.

Facing enormous eight-foot waves, Picklum won the prestigious Hurley Pro Sunset Beach event in Hawaii in February – her first World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour win.

On the Australian leg of the WSL Championship tour, wearing the yellow leader’s jersey, she placed runner-up to defending champion Tyler Wright at the Rip Curl Pro event at Bells Beach and finished in the quarter finals at the Margaret River Pro.

The next leg of the 2023 WSL Championship Tour was a big one for Picklum as she competed in the Surf Ranch Pro in California, a two-day wave pool event on May 27-28.

“Molly’s professionalism, passion and resilience is setting a new standard in the sport, while her down-to-earth and humble nature makes (her) a fan favourite on the surfing circuit,” Fleming said.

“The teenage surf prodigy’s trophy cabinet is filling up rapidly, despite her career having only just begun.

“As an Australian owned and operated, designer and manufacturer of premium Personal Protective Equipment, Industree Group is genuinely dedicated to supporting the local community and thrilled to have the talented surfer onboard.

“It is Molly’s strong sense of community and passion for the environment that makes this a natural partnership for Industree Group,” Fleming said.

Industree Group is the naming rights sponsor of the Central Coast Stadium, now known as Industree Group Stadium, demonstrating the company’s strong ongoing commitment to

supporting local sport and the community.

Now living at Terrigal, Picklum continues to support her local boardriders club and loves spending time with young surfers on the Central Coast.

“As a proud Central Coast girl, I am excited to become a brand ambassador for one of our local businesses, Industree Group,” she said.

“As I travel the world on my surfing journey, the support of my home community means so much to me.

“I’m looking forward to working together on projects to celebrate our shared passions of sustainability and supporting local.”

Source: Industree Group

developed collaboratively with a range of stakeholders including regulatory authorities, experts and the community to ensure a considered approach to wrack management.

“The process will include a review of current wrack management, procedures, costs and benefits, plus investigate potential opportunities and improvements.”

Proposed benefits of the new Wrack Management Strategy include: clearer, more open communication of wrack operations; measurable performance indicators to

evaluate success; adaptable strategy to allowing for variability in financial/ environmental factors over long term; investigation of wrack solutions in areas where collection has been unserviceable; and more engagement opportunities through focus groups and drop-in centres during development.

“We recognise that managing wrack is one of the priority issues for our community based on outcomes of a previous stakeholder risk assessment workshop, the findings of the expert panel, the

community survey and feedback during recent Estuary Management pop-ups,” the spokesperson said.

“Therefore, it is a priority for Council to work in collaboration with our community as we codesign this new strategy.

“Once the Coastal Management Program for Tuggerah Lakes (which will include the Wrack Management Strategy) is certified by the NSW Government it will strategically guide management actions for the next 10 years.

“Central Coast Council is completing this project with financial assistance from the NSW Government through its Coastal and Estuary Grants Program.”

Online applications for the new reference group will be accepted until 5pm on Sunday, June 4.

For more details contact Jenna Markwick on 0428 900 870 or by emailing Jenna. Markwick@centralcoast.nsw. gov.au.

Source: Central Coast Council

World champion surfer Molly Picklum has joined local business, Industree Group, as its brand ambassador.

Council has collected 5,621 cubic metres of wrack and algae from the shores of Tuggerah Lakes this year

Gold and bronze for Oak Haven Brewery

Gosford RSL Club’s Oak Haven Brewery has been awarded two gold and two bronze medals in the 2023 Australian International Beer Awards, the largest annual beer competition in the world judging both draught and packaged beer.

Oak Haven took home the gold for Sly Grog (pale ale) and Rusty Sail (mid) as well as the bronze for Dr. Paul’s Pils (pale ale) and Bolthole (porter-style dark ale).

The West Gosford brewery continues to develop different beers, available on tap for local members.

The ales are crafted by expert brewer Steve Morenos, who has 13 years’ experience in brewing American, British, European and Belgian beers.

The brewery has state-ofthe-art equipment, uses fresh

Four new members have been elected to the Board of the Central Conservatorium of Music, bringing a new wealth of experience.

They are former Chief Media and Digital Officer of New York’s Lincoln Centre for Performing Arts Elizabeth Scott, digital transformation leader Janet Attwood, magazine founder Catharine Retter and corporate finance expert Douglas Wallace. They join the following members who were re-elected; Claire Braund (President), Hilary Day, Rob Kitchen, Penny Lee, Bettina Pidcock, Kate McCallum and Paul A Murnane. Board President Braund, who is co-founder of Women on Boards, said both the new and re-elected Board members were a showcase of the depth of director talent now available on the Central Coast.

“This highly experienced and skills-based board will work

First home buyers on the Central Coast are set to save, with the NSW Government introducing legislation into NSW Parliament to deliver on its election commitment to create a simpler, fairer stamp duty concession scheme.

Under the changes, stamp duty exemptions for first home buyers will be lifted from $650,000 to $800,000 and stamp duty concessions from $800,000 to $1M. This means a first home

local produce where possible, no preservatives or artificial ingredients, supports farmers using ethical and environmental sustainable practices and utilises the world’s best, highpurity hops.

In naming the brewery and beer brands, significant consideration has been given to pay tribute to the history of Gosford RSL.

Oak Haven Brewery’s first pale ale has been named Sly

Grog in memory of the initial members who were a little cheeky in exchanging coupons for alcohol in the basement, to ensure no alcohol was technically being sold.

Brisbane Water was famous

for its shipwrights from the 1820s through to 1950s and the surrounding hills provided the hardwoods, demand for quality vessels grew, the old hands mentored the newcomers and family businesses flourished producing all manner of ketches, schooners, ferries, launches, barges and pearlers.

Rusty Sail is named in honour of this proud heritage and the fact that some locals say they still hear the rusty old rigging of the ghost ships plying these waters on a dark, windy night.

Dr James Paul owned the land which housed the original home of Gosford RSL Club as well as the Anglican church.

As a man of the highest morals and concerned for the health of the returned servicemen, Dr Paul decreed that “no intoxicating liquor would be sold” on that

Con’s four new board members

closely with our new CEO Lisa Barnes in our newly refurbished building to bring music education and performance opportunities to students across all walks of life,” she said.

Elizabeth Scott, who is also the former Executive Director of Create NSW, has been appointed Board VicePresident.

She also serves as Board member of the US’s largest artist peak body, Fractured Atlas, and as a Director of the Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra.

An accomplished performing artist who has freelanced as a conductor with opera companies, choruses and festivals across New York, her recent work in Australia includes conducting the Orange Symphony Orchestra and the East Sydney Chamber Orchestra.

She recently assumed the role of music director with the

Central Coast’s VERVE Voices.

Prior to her arts sector executive work, she ran the business of Major League Baseball’s film and television production for more than a decade.

Douglas Wallace is highly experienced in the fields of investment management and corporate finance.

Based on the Central Coast, he works remotely as a senior executive of an asset management firm in South Africa.

Prior to his move into investment management, he held various corporate finance roles, participating in numerous M&A and capital markets transactions.

He strongly believes in the long-term value of education in all spheres of life and that music education in particular provides unique benefits and transferable life skills.

Janet Attwood is an accomplished transformation leader with more than 20 years’ experience in the public sector.

premises.

Our crafty forefathers found a way around that but Gosford RSL Club owes a great debt to the generosity of Dr Paul, for allowing the use of his property, so his name has been immortalised with a loweralcohol beer – Dr Paul’s Pils.

The Bolthole, Oak Haven Brewery’s first dark ale, has been named to capture the essence of the basement bar in the original Gosford RSL premises.

In the early days the bar was nothing more than a basement full of beer.

Gosford RSL is very proud of the Oak Haven range and is committed to providing its members with the finest locally brewed beers on tap at Gosford RSL.

the arts to the local community and was grateful to be contributing to the Conservatorium’s next steps.

Catharine Retter is the publisher of Coast magazine and an experienced board director and CEO with a strong career background in management, marketing, tourism and publishing.

She specialises in digital transformation, strategic planning, regulatory policy, compliance, governance, and risk and has a deep understanding of work health and safety.

She is a Non-Executive Director and on the finance committee of the Central Coast Community Women’s Health Centre.

A born-and-bred Coastie, Attwood said she understood the key role the Conservatorium played in bringing music and

First home buyers set to save

buyer purchasing a $800,000 home will save up to $31,090. With the growth of house prices on the Coast slowing, the new scheme will provide additional relief to ensure more first home buyers have a chance of owning their home. The legislation will also improve the integrity and targeting of first home buyer assistance programs, increasing the requirement to live in the home from six months to 12 months and offering greater support to those living in regional NSW.

Premier Chris Minns said he understood the stress of buying a first home. “I want more singles, couples

and families realising this dream.,” he said.

“This is a fairer and simpler system to ensure more first home buyers have a chance of owning their first property.”

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the move delivers on a key election promise.

“This policy will deliver the most help to the first home buyers most at risk of leaving the housing market all together as interest rates go up,” he said.

“Now five out of every six first home buyers will get help to

She has been a senior marketer of some of Australia’s major events, including the bicentennial celebrations, Sydney 2000 Olympic Bid and Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Retter has been a member of the Central Coast Tourism Advisory Committee for Central Coast Council and similarly for the Gosford-Erina Business Chamber.

She is also the author of nine published non-fiction books, as well as being a closet novel writer.

Source: Central Coast Conservatorium

own the roof over their heads.

“It will benefit more first home buyers overall and more fairly goes to those who need it most.

“The new thresholds for stamp duty exemptions and concessions are a simpler and fairer way to help more first home buyers than the property tax, which helped a smaller cohort of first home buyers.”

Source: NSW Government

The Con’s new board members (from left): Elizabeth Scott, Douglas Wallace, Janet Attwood and Catherine Retter

There will be no stamp duty on first homes up to $800,000 in value

Source: Gosford RSL

Assistant Brewer Chris Taylor (left) and Head Brewer Steve Morenos celebrate the wins

In the wake of World Hypertension Day on May 17, Blooms the Chemist is urging residents to have their blood pressure checked regularly.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading chronic health conditions in Australia, responsible for the hospitalisation of more than 600,000 people each year.

High blood pressure is a common condition that affects an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 worldwide.

But an estimated 46 per cent of adults are unaware they suffer from the condition and only one in five adults with hypertension have their blood pressure controlled.

The year’s theme for World Hypertension Day was Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It and Live Longer, with a focus on combatting low awareness rates, particularly in low to middle-income areas, and greater education on accurate blood pressure

Get checked for hypertension

measurement methods.

Pharmacist Luke Owen of Blooms The Chemist at Erina Fair says untreated hypertension can lead to complications such as heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure.

“The complication that come from hypertension are what we are most concerned about,” he said.

“It is a silent condition, with many not recognising they have it until they experience symptoms such as a really high throbbing in the head.”

Owen said a range of things could cause the condition, including advancing age.

“Controllable factors include diet, salt intake, a sedentary lifestyle and stress,” he said.

“The test for hypertension is very simple and can be done at any pharmacy.

“You can even buy a test and do it at home.

“We would suggest a series of tests to establish if there is a trend and advise testing once

each year.

“If diagnosed, we would probably suggest a threemonth trial of lifestyle changes.

“These might include introducing a morning walk, looking at the sodium content in foods, using less table salt

Time to have a flu jab

With flu season in full swing as we enter into the colder months, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch is encouraging everyone to roll up their sleeve for an influenza/flu vaccination.

“This year flu season is expected to be more serious

than previous years, so that’s why it is important that we all roll up our sleeves for a flu vaccination,” Crouch said.

“The flu can be serious for children who are younger than five, those aged 65 or above, women who are pregnant and individuals who suffer from medical conditions such as

kidney and heart disease.” For more information on the flu and where you can get a flu vaccination visit www. healthdirect.gov.au.

Source:

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch

and mindfulness recommendations.

“If these don’t curb it, there is a range of medications which work on body systems to influence high blood pressure.”

Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist-owner Andria Aird

is passionate about addressing misconceptions that high blood pressure rarely affects women, who represent nearly half of all adults suffering the condition.

“Unfortunately, many of the common symptoms experienced by women who

may have hypertension are dismissed as something less concerning, such as assuming it’s a side effect of hormonal imbalances during pregnancy, menopause and postmenopause,” she said.

“Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to a range of serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye damage and pregnancy complications.

“Unfortunately, people are often unaware of what a normal blood pressure reading is, which in most adults should be between 120/80 and 140/90 mmHg.

“If a reading is out of this range, we can provide timely advice on changes in lifestyle habits and discuss current medication that may be causing high blood pressure.

“However, if we have concerns, we will recommend to a patient that they visit their GP.”

Morning tea raises more than $2,000 for cancer research

Residents of Blue Point Terrigal and their friends have raised more than $2,000 for breast cancer research.

More than 60 people gathered for a Biggest Morning Tea on Wednesday, May 24. Festooned with red bras and pink balloons, the poolside

setting was perfect under clear blue skies for a spectacular morning of cakes, scones and tasty morsels.

Tea was served in fine bone china.

Generous donations from local businesses encouraged interest in the raffles, enabling organisers Karen Harper,

Bobbie Ross-Edwards and Annette Podryhul to announce ticket sales and donations had raised more than $2,100 on the day.

Pink Day at Blue Point is now destined to become an even bigger event in 2024.

Source: Blue Point Terrigal

Terry Collins

Luke Owen checks the blood pressure of team member Zoe Katsafouros at Blooms the Chemist at Erina Fair

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has his flu vaccination

More than 60 people attended the morning tea

Federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy is encouraging local teachers, parents and students to have their say on the future of school education through a new national survey.

It is part of the Expert Panel Review into the next National School Reform Agreement. Survey participants can have their say on range of issues including improving education outcomes, supporting student

Walkathon to highlight pedestrian safety

Our Lady of the Rosary Shelly Beach will host a walkathon on Friday, June 2, at 10.45am to raise awareness of pedestrian safety and road safety at the school and in the community.

Special guest on the day will be Michelle McLaughlin, CEO of the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation which was created following the death of her son Tom at the age of four in a road accident on the Central Coast.

The campaigns – Hold my Hand and It’s Holiday Time, slow down kids around – were created to raise awareness and help save other children’s lives.

McLaughlin will speak with the children on road safety and present the school with the signs it has purchased to be displayed at the school.

“We are hoping to hold our ceremony with the first group of walkers where the sign will be placed on the school fence and our walkers will be off on

Have your say to shape education reforms

mental health and wellbeing and attracting and retaining teachers.

The Expert Panel, led by Dr Lisa O’Brien AM, will report to Education Ministers at the end of October on the practical reforms that should be tied to funding in the next National School Reform Agreement.

The survey is available to complete here or go to Australian Government Department of Education website and search Review to Inform a Better and Fairer

Education System.

The survey will be open until Friday, June 23.

Conroy said it was important to listen to the views and experiences of teachers, parents and students from the Central Coast to build a better and fairer education system.

“I am proud to have been educated at great local public schools on the Central Coast and I am pleased that the Albanese Labor Government is providing students an

opportunity to have a greater say in the future of school education,” he said.

“I regularly speak with local parents, students and teachers at the 56 schools in the Shortland electorate and know that their wealth of knowledge and experiences will be vital in helping to shape the future of school education in our country”.

Source:

their road safety walkathon, Parents Community Network (PCN) events co-ordinator Stefane Wilson said.

Our Lady of The Rosary has purchased a large banner to be erected at holiday time, when tourists and visitors flock to The Entrance, with the school located at a major roundabout.

Source: Our Lady of the Rosary PCN

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATIONS IN KOOLAWONG,

Optus plans to install new telecommunications equipment onto existing facilities at the addresses below: 104 Wondabyne Station Road, Wondabyne NSW 2256 (RFNSA No. 2256025) Gosford Quarries, Wondabyne NSW 2256 (RFNSA No. 2256027)

500m North of Wondabyne Station, Wondabyne NSW 2256 (RFNSA No. 2256028)

2 Iranda Avenue, Niagara Park NSW 2250 (RFNSA No. 2250097)

1 Brisbane Water Drive, Koolewong NSW 2256 (RFNSA No. 2250095)

Adjacent 437 Glenrock Parade, Tascott NSW 2250 (RFNSA No. 2250099)

48 Koninderie Parade, Narara NSW 2250 (RFNSA No. 2250094) 1005 Enterprise Drive, Ourimbah NSW 2258 (RFNSA No.2258010)

The proposal at 104 Wondabyne Station Road, Wondabyne consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 15m Telstra monopole;

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment.

The proposal at Gosford Quarries, Wondabyne consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 15m Telstra Lattice Tower;

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; two (2) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment.

The proposal at 500m North of Wondabyne Station, Wondabyne consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 15m Telstra monopole.

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment.

The proposal at 2 Iranda Avenue, Niagara Park consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 15m Telstra Monopole;

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment.

The proposal at 1 Brisbane Water Drive, Koolewong consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 25m Telstra monopole.

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment. The proposal at Adjacent 437 Glenrock Parade, Tascott consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 20m Telstra monopole.

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment. The proposal at 48 Koninderie Parade, Narara consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 20m Telstra monopole.

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment. The proposal at 1005 Enterprise Drive, Ourimbah consists of the installation of:

• Two (2) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the existing 30m Telstra monopole.

• One (1) new three (3) bay outdoor cabinets mounted at ground level adjacent to the monopole; and

• Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; three (3) new Radio Remote Units (RRU’s); steel antenna mounts, cabling; electrical works and other associated equipment.

1. Optus regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

2. In accordance with Section 7 of the Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code 2018, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to John Roelandts on 0406 680 068, or via the Service Stream Wireless Consultation inbox at optus.enquiries@wirelessconsultation.com.au or Zenith Centre, Level 5, Tower B, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW by Wednesday 14 June 2023.

3. If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from: www.rfnsa.com.au/2256025, www.rfnsa.com.au/2256027, www.rfnsa.com.au/2256028, www.rfnsa.com.au/2250097, www.rfnsa.com.au/2250095, www.rfnsa.com.au/2250099, www.rfnsa.com.au/2250094, www.rfnsa.com.au/2258010.

Federal Member for Shortland, Pat Conroy Students from St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School at Lake Munmorah meet Federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy at Parliament House last week

NARARA, NIAGARA PARK, OURIMBAH, TASCOTT & WONDABYNE

From left: PCN events co-ordinator Stefanie Wilson, Principal Yvette Owens and PCN secretary Jenny Grindall-Kruf at the school

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

Get Ready for Roses

WITH CHERALYN DARCEY

It’s

Bare-rooted rose time!

These are rose plants in their dormant state and are one of the best ways to purchase because stock and varieties will be more plentiful and it’s also a lot cheaper than container growing roses.

The pick of the bunch for Central Coast gardens in my books are: The new hybrid tea rose ‘Heaven Scent’ with a strong old damask rose fragrance and unusually shaped orchid pink petals.

The ‘Amazing Mum’ is a showstopper with its breathtaking dark pink- purple huge and very fragrant flowers with a lighter reverse.

For a delicately pretty rose, look out for ‘Earth Angel ‘with its creamy soft petals with touches

of blush.

Earth Angel also has a perfume to match that is soft and sweet.

For something different, ‘Coco’ which as the name suggests, displays velvety petals in cocoa shades.

The fragrance is spicy and warm with hints of vanilla.

Drop into any of the Central Coast’s local nurseries as bareroot stock is arriving now.

You may need to order in certain varieties and if your selection has already sold out this year, the friendly teams can also suggest similar roses.

Rose Planning

You can decide to grow a rose garden or, like I do, pepper the garden here and there with roses.

You might like a theme that is focused on a type of rose, a period of their history or of course colour.

I buy what I like, when I see it and tuck it in where it fits but then I have a garden that Freida Kahlo would be proud of.

It’s very colourful, rambling, and bright, but I’ve seen stunning gardens of very formal white roses or filled completely with only French Old Garden roses. With so many varieties, the longevity of the plant and this area being very suitable for all roses, you won’t be stuck for choice.

For your needs and garden design, there are climbing roses, bushy roses, ones that you can prune to look like little trees and

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

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

others that make great hedges.

Bare Root plants are available from late autumn until early spring, and they come wrapped in sawdust or peat moss and plastic bags and sometimes in pots.

These are usually far more plentiful and cheaper that potted growing roses.

These on the other hand are available year-round and are naturally covered in foliage and sometimes blooms if found in season, (usually spring through summer).

They are more expensive and there are not as many varieties available in most places.

Planting Your Roses

Under absolutely no circumstance can the roots of a rose be allowed to become dry. Get your planting position ready first so that there is limited disruption.

Roses will need full sun for most of the day and while some can tolerate shade, you will gain more blossoms in sunny positions of at least five hours a day.

They also prefer to be sheltered, with good air circulation and have cool earth plus space as roses do not like to have heated roots or competition.

This may sound like a fussy

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

contact@cheralyndarcey.com cheralyn.darcey

cheralyn

checklist but with roses, once you get the planting and position right, they are usually set for life.

Roses will grow in any soil, but it must be free-draining and deep so that the roots can stay cool and not become waterlogged.

The best preparation is to dig over your selected rose garden bed spot to at least the depth of a spade about six weeks prior to planting and add lots of organic matter and rotted manure.

Each plant will need an area of at least 3 meters in diameter.

Bare rooted roses need to be carefully unwrapped and washed of their packing material and nursery potted ones need the soil shaken gently from their roots.

Roses you are transplanting during this dormant period need to be treated the same.

I like to soak my rose roots in a bucket of plain water overnight to make sure they are nicely hydrated before planting the next day.

Into a hole that you have dug that is wide enough for the roots and deep enough so that the bud union will come to the soil level, make a mound of soil that your roots can sit upon.

Fan them out over this and then half fill hole with soil.

Next fill the hole with water and

once it drains away, top up the hole with soil firmly.

Rose Care

Mulch the rose plant with a layer about 6mm deep of organic materials such as sugar cane, general garden mulch and compost but, never use eucalyptus, pine needs or pebbles.

Keep the mulch at least 6mm away from the stem.

Roses like to be kept wellwatered but check in with your selections as some like to dry out a bit between watering.

Rainfall over 20mm during the week will mean that watering can be skipped.

This can be increased to twice a week during the summer months.

They are hungry plants and do so much better with natural matter as their food source.

In early spring, after gently forking over the surrounding soil spread well-rotted manure to a depth of at least 10cm and top this with compost to a depth of 5cm.

Late spring after this has worked its way down into the soil, add bone and bone and mulch and you might like to feed again with blood and bone midsummer.

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, bare-rooted roses, calendula, candytuft, Canterbury bells, carnation, cineraria, columbine, cornflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, honesty, larkspur, linaria, lobelia, nigella, pansy, poppy, primula, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower

Most happy with our emergency departments

Emergency departments at Gosford and Wyong hospitals have come in for quite a bit of criticism in recent years, but latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) survey results show a high level of satisfaction with the service.

More than 1,200 people who attended Central Coast emergency departments completed the survey between July 2021 and June 2022, with 88 per cent rating the care they received as very good or good. Ninety per cent also said they would rate the emergency department health professionals who treated them as very good or good.

Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) Chief Executive Scott McLachlan said the results were a testament to emergency department staff who continued to care for patients and their community during a particularly challenging period.

“This survey was undertaken during a time that included the Delta and Omicron waves of COVID-19, which presented

significant challenges to health services across NSW, including increased demand, additional safety measures and high numbers of staff furloughing,” McLachlan said.

“Despite these challenges, our staff have continued to provide high-quality, compassionate and respectful care for our patients, and I would like to thank them for their incredible efforts and dedication.

“A majority of patients surveyed recognised the dedication of staff, with 89 per

cent saying they were ‘always’ treated with respect and dignity and 84 per cent saying they were ‘always’ treated with kindness and care.”

Patients in ED are always triaged and seen according to the clinical urgency of their condition, McLachlan said.

“During busy times, those with less urgent conditions will experience longer wait times when there are high numbers of seriously unwell patients being prioritised,” he said.

He said the District has implemented a number of

strategies to improve the timeliness of care for patients, including: active recruitment campaigns to bolster the workforce; where appropriate, actively working to support patient discharges earlier in the day; and implementation of new models of care to support patients to receive the right care in the right place earlier. This includes: a new medical assessment unit model for Gosford Hospital; Elderly and Frail Connected Care Pathway including inpatient and community models to access

specialised staff; and increasing Hospital in the Home services as an alternative to admission.

McLachlan said the survey results also demonstrated that a number of initiatives implemented in local emergency departments in the past few years were helping to give patients a more positive experience.

“This includes the placement of Patient Experience Officers (PEOs) in our emergency departments who are dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of

patients, families and carers, helping them to navigate the emergency department,” he said.

“They are a consistent point of contact and are available to answer any enquiries or address any concerns that may arise.

“For our Aboriginal community, we have also introduced Aboriginal Liaison Officers to not only support patients and improve their health outcomes but support our staff to provide a culturally safe and respectful space for both patients and staff.

“Additionally, we are improving the experience for our patients by providing comfortable seating, clear signage, activities for children and installing a phone charging

Wyong Creek School turns it on for Harvest Festival

For the first time Wyong Creek Public School will be taking part in the hugely popular Harvest Festival being held in Central Coast’s hinterland over the June long weekend.

The school grounds will come alive between 10am and 3pm on Saturday, June 10, with a fun-filled entertainment program to suit all ages, a display of local artists and a program to inspire gardeners.

There’ll be good old countrystyle competition and entertainment in the cow pat guessing competition where participants can guess where

because there’s only 100 spots for $5 each.

Or try your luck with a $10 ticket in the raffle to win a grand finalist signed 2023 Central Coast Mariners jersey with the winner being drawn at 2.30pm on the day.

For gardening enthusiasts, the propagation station will offer valuable tips and tricks from gardening experts and there will be plant sale who want to take home a beautiful addition to their own gardens.

Live music will be provided by Primary Music Institute Central Coast and singer/songwriter Lucy Beveridge, and their enchanting melodies and

throughout the day.

At the heart of the event lies an art exhibition featuring extraordinary works from gifted local artists.

This school festival promises to be a fantastic opportunity for the local community to come together, have fun and support the school.

It’s also a great opportunity to take in the beautiful scenic hinterland along Yarramalong Rd on the way out to the school.

Information about other Harvest Festival activities over the June long weekend – June 10 to 12 – can be found on Central Coast Council’s

Most patients are happy with the performance of emergency departments at Gosford and Wyong

BASKETBALL

The halfway mark of the NBL 1 East season has officially come and gone and the Central Coast Crusaders are still within striking distance of a top eight finish.

A winnable matchup is on the cards for both the men’s and women’s squads with the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles crossing Broken Bay to take on the Crusaders at Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium in Terrigal on Saturday, June 3.

This round at home is a special one dedicated to the men and women who have made basketball on the Central Coast possible through their devotion of time and personal resources.

Crusaders still in with a chance

Tipping things off at 5pm, the women have an uphill battle against the 13-1 Sea Eagles especially with young superstar Sara Matthews still sidelined with a left knee injury.

All is not lost however with current Sydney Flames veteran Rachel Maenpaa coming on as a mid-season addition to the team.

Maenpaa, who started her long and storied basketball career with the Central Coast Crusaders back in the early 2000s, brings size and savvy to replenish what the Crusaders are missing without Matthews.

The last time these two teams faced each other was in Manly back in March and the Crusaders were able to put up the most points out of any team so far in the season against the

Sea Eagles on their home turf.

A break in the action at 6.30pm will see a special oncourt ceremony for the Life Members before the men’s clash at 7pm.

The Crusaders men’s squad continues to struggle, having managed only three wins for the season despite finally acquiring US import Ajay Lawton two weeks ago.

Lawton, who was a part of the 2019 championship winning Crusaders squad, has not disappointed in his two games this season so far, putting up 27 points on 50 per cent shooting in the Crusaders’ dismal road loss in Canberra recently.

The Sea Eagles men’s squad is facing difficulties of its own, notching up just two wins for

the season so far with one of them being against the Crusaders in Manly back in March.

This will be Lawton’s first game at Breakers Stadium since 2019 and he is eager to prove that his trip from the United States wasn’t all for nothing.

“This is my first game i Terrigal since that special season back in 2019,” he said.

“We lifted the hardware and it was a great milestone for myself and the team.

“We’re only a few games behind the eighth seed and it’s not too late to make a run for the title.

“That run starts this Saturday in front of the home crowd.”

New canoe for outriggers

Tarragal Outrigger Canoe

Club has conducted a blessing ceremony for its new canoe, obtained with thanks to $32,000 from the State Government’s Community Building Partnerships 2022 grants.

Club President Louise Vangestel said the grant had removed barriers for members of the club wanting to participate in paddling.

“It will enable the youth that we mentor from the Frank Baxter Centre, our Junior Program as well as ageing members of the club to participate in canoe paddling,”

she said.

“As an Aboriginal culturebased club, we are delighted to be melding cultures and honouring the Polynesian roots of a traditional outrigger canoe blessing to awaken the canoe’s spirit and keep all those who paddle in it safe.”

In February, the club announced its program to help Aboriginal youth in detention access new sporting pathways through good behaviour.

The program, run in conjunction with the Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre, with equipment donated by VERTO, also provides a sense of culture and belonging and a

pathway to improved mental health, while assisting with reintegration into society and reducing the probability of reoffending.

Vangestel said the club was pleased to offer the youth a sporting option outside of the usual rugby or ball sports.

“They feel that being on the water and learning about the ocean, the canoes and the outrigger family they are now a part of, will positively impact their mental health and motivate them to make better choices for the future,” she said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch attended the blessing

ceremony, held at The Haven.

“It is terrific that this local community organisation now has a much-needed, brand new lightweight canoe,” he said.

“Without the hard work of the Club President, Louise Vangestel, Vice President Kerry Miller and the team at the Club, this would not have been possible.

“Tarragal Outriggers are just one of the many success stories of these important grant programs like the Community Building Partnerships grant.”

Terry Collins

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and members of the club at the blessing ceremony

Stefan Kataric Ajay Lawton in action on the court

Photo: Discovery One Photography

First win of the season for The Lakes

RUGBY

The Lakes had their first win of the season with a tight victory over Woy Woy by 39-27 at Woy Woy Oval in Round 7 of the Central Coast Rugby competition on May 27.

Woy Woy took the early lead with a try but it was not long before The Lakes took over, with the lead changing on numerous occasions.

The Lakes went to the halftime break leading 19-10 but the match was still very much up for grabs.

The Lakes scored six tries to Woy Woy’s five, with centre Sione Vaenuku scoring three of The Lakes’ tries.

Other good players for The Lakes were lock Paul Wilson, prop Connor Starkey and winger Josua Camaasalia.

Best for the home team were lock Fe’iloakitohi Patrick

Tautua’a, who crossed for two tries, and flankers Bruce Folau and Casey Woodford.

Terrigal maintained its lead on the points table with a 41-7 victory over Gosford.

The home ground advantage at The Haven saw Terrigal get away to a good start with an early penalty goal and an early try.

The 8-0 lead set the pattern for much of the match, with Terrigal continuing to control the paddock and the scoreboard, going into halftime with a 34-0 lead.

The second half was a far more even battle but the first half performance by Terrigal secured the win on the day.

Terrigal maintains its unbeaten record this season while Gosford will need to regroup so it can return to the winner’s circle.

Best players for Terrigal were centre Jayden Woolley, who

crossed for two tries, five-eight Adam Danckert, who posted 16 personal points, and Edward Bookallil.

Gosford was best served by lock Taylor Mildren, five-eight Josh McGlynn and hooker Joel Wagner.

The match of the day at Woongarrah Oval saw Avoca Beach emerge victorious over Warnervale 31-19.

Warnervale got away to the better start and opened the scoring early on with a converted try.

Avoca Beach was able to reduce the gap by kicking two penalty goals, and then took the lead by 11-7 following its first try of the match.

Warnervale took the lead once again just prior to halftime with a second converted try to go to the break leading by 14-11.

Avoca Beach squared the match early in the second half,

evening up the score to 14-all with a penalty goal.

The contest remained close for much of the remainder of the match but Avoca Beach was able to score two tries to Warnervale’s one to grab the victory and remain undefeated for the season.

Best players for Avoca Beach were No.8 Matt Anderson, Tom Murphy and flanker Fionn Henderson-Foley, who posted 21 individual points.

Best for Warnervale were hooker Kye Haslam, prop Veipueki Siale, who crossed for two tries, and fullback Alfred Brown.

Hornsby travelled to Boolaroo to meet Lake Macquarie and the match proved to be a onesided contest, with Hornsby running out winners by 87-0.

Lake Macquarie gave it their all but had no answer to the continuous Hornsby attack.

It was one of Hornsby’s best

performances this year with the team crossing for 13 tries.

Nick Anderson posted a personal tally of four tries.

Hornsby led by 45-0 at the half-time break, posting a further 42 points in the second stanza.

Best players for Hornsby were centre Nick Anderson, hooker Jackson Cole and No.8 Hamish Perring.

Lake Macquarie was best served by centre Wayne Gorman and flanker Jarod Scott.

The Premier 1 points table sees Terrigal maintain its lead on 30, with Avoca Beach close behind on 28.

The Razorbacks are on 24, Warnervale on 19, Gosford on 15, Hornsby on 9 and Woy Woy and The Lakes both on 7.

Women’s 10s matches saw victories for Avoca Beach, Hornsby and The Lakes.

Pennants wins for Peninsula clubs

BOWLS

After 10 weeks of tough sectional Bowls Pennants rounds, Bowls Central Coast (Zone 15) held its 2022/2023 Pennants Finals at Ettalong Memorial Bowling Club on Saturday, May 20.

Several bowling clubs from around the Central Coast won their respective sections and competed in the finals.

Two of these clubs represented the Peninsula –Umina Beach and Ettalong Memorial.

Umina Beach finished up winning the Grade 3 Pennants Flag by 14 points over its nearest rival and Ettalong won the Grade 5 Pennant Flag by one shot, on the last bowl of an extra end.

Round 8 of the competition on June 3 will see the Razorbacks at home to Avoca Beach at Ourimbah Rugby Park in the matched the day.

Terrigal will travel to Mark Taylor Oval to take on Hornsby, Gosford will at home at Gosford Rugby Field at the Showground to take on Warnervale and The Lakes will host Lake Macquarie at Slade Park.

In the President’s Cup, the Razorbacks will host Avoca Beach at home, while Gosford/ Kariong will take on Warnervale at the Showground.

In the Women’s 10s competition, the Razorbacks will host Avoca Beach at Ourimbah Rugby Park, The Lakes will meet Woy Woy at Slade Park and Hornsby will take on Terrigal at Mark Taylor Oval.

Source: Central Coast Rugby

Woy Woy took the early lead but ultimately went down to The Lakes

Photo: Nick Friend Photography

Source: Bowls Central The Ettalong Grade 5 winning team The Umina Beach Grade 3 winning team