Coast Community News 396

Paddle-out protest over wind farm

More than 400 residents and surfers attended a paddle-out on Sunday, June 25, to protest the wind farm planned for an area 10km off the coast from Port Stephens to Norah Head.

Community groups Love Norah Head and Love the Coast organised the protest, which saw beach lovers line the Norah Head shoreline.

The Hunter Offshore Renewable Energy Area (HOREA) is proposed to be only 10km off Norah Head, Noraville and Budgewoi shores and around 17km from Bateau Bay, Shelly Beach, Wamberal and Terrigal.

“It was extremely encouraging to see the incredible turn out we had to

support protecting our coastline and our way of life,” group spokesperson Nick Anderson said.

“Many of the locals who attended had no idea about this proposal until

they heard about our event.

“On hearing some of the facts surrounding the giant turbines, they were completely horrified.

“To get an idea of the scale of this,

the HOREA will house hundreds of 350M high floating turbines, each taller than the Centre Point Tower.”

Anderson said many residents found the proposal very upsetting.

“While we fully appreciate the need to explore renewable energy options, our community has strong concerns regarding the sustainability and suitability of this massive project,” he said.

“It seems that Central Coast residents are being asked to give up their coastline to allow the industrialisation of the ocean for the promise of a few jobs for the Hunter Region.”

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Reid backs Wiseberry’s winter appeal

The Wiseberry Foundation has launched its 2023 Winter Appeal and is calling on the Central Coast community to get behind the campaign.

This year, Wiseberry Peninsula is supporting Mary Mac’s Place in Woy Woy and is asking for donations of non-perishable food items and warm winter clothing.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid is supporting the appeal for the second year in a row.

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Journalists: Terry Collins, Sue Murray

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“Last year was such a massive success, and the community really got on board,” Reid said.

“Wiseberry Peninsula is hoping this year is even bigger, and with the support of the community, we can achieve this.

“We all know how important

Mary Mac’s Place is and how amazing its volunteers are.

“I encourage the community to give generously.”

Wiseberry Peninsula Property Manager, Tammy Jackett, said this year people are doing it extra tough and need the support more than ever.

“With the cost of living really taking a bite, and more people than ever accessing support services, we need people to give generously,” she said.

“Mary Mac’s Place (does) a phenomenal job feeding people who are homeless or caring for people escaping

difficult circumstances.

“There is need in the community, and we’re calling on people to donate, if they can.”

To donate, people can visit Wiseberry Peninsula at Umina Beach or Reid’s office at West Gosford.

The 2023 Winter Appeal will run for the entire month of June. Wiseberry Peninsula is located at 264 West St, Umina Beach. Reid’s office is located at Riverside Building, Level 3/69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford.

For more information, contact Wiseberry Peninsula on 4344 1122 or Reid’s office on 4322 2400.

Guinea pigs on parade at Wyee

A pet show all about guinea pigs, or cavies, will be a great opportunity to learn all about them or to enter your beloved pet in one of the fun competition categories.

The event will kick-off with registration of entries at 9am on Sunday, July 30 in Wyee Hall at 114 Wyee Rd.

Champion breeder Michelle Parker of Bateau Bay is President of the NSW Cavy Club which has organised The Guinea Pig Pet Show and information day, in collaboration with Hunter Valley Cavy Clubs. “Our pet shows aren’t just fun events they can enter but also information and learning days with correct and up-to-date information on how to care and look after a pet guinea pig,”

Adorable guinea pigs make great pets

she said.

Registered cavy breeders will be available at the show to answer any questions, and there will be plenty of information to take and read.

There’ll be lots of different prizes and a great opportunity to become part of the cavy community.

“Guinea pigs make great pets, they’ve got great personalities, relatively easy to look after, don’t require a lot of space and as a whole they’re a low maintenance animal – just a joy to have,” Parker said.

There will be healthy guinea pigs for sale from registered breeders as well as supplies –

hay, dry feed, pellets, snacks, hay bags, hidey houses etc –and merchandise for owners and those who love guinea pigs, such as stickers, bags, earrings or badges.

For those who want to enter their pet into the show, registrations will be from 9am to 9.30am and judging will begin at 10.30am.

There are 11 fun classes: best adult boar; best adult sow; heaviest cavy; best young boar; best young sow; fancy dress; best diorama; best single colour; most colourful; craziest hair; and fastest muncher.

For more information go to NSWCCPetShows Facebook page or email NSWCC PetShow@gmail.com

Public forum trial abandoned

Just two months into the three-month trial of a change to the public forum held prior to each ordinary meeting, Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart has abandoned it.

The trial saw the public forum, traditionally held immediately before the Tuesday evening ordinary meeting, moved to the Monday evening prior to the meeting.

It began in May, with just one speaker registered to speak.

In its second month, again just one speaker spoke at the public forum on June 26 prior to the June 27 meeting – and that speaker was not addressing any of the items on the meeting agenda.

At the June 27 meeting, Hart announced the trial would be abandoned.

Hart said he had “heard what the community had to say” and had decided to cancel the trial in light of public sentiment.

Many residents had complained that holding the forum at Wyong on a separate night to the meeting was becoming increasingly difficult for those wishing to speak, particularly those from the southern end of the region.

Hart expressed regret that the community hadn’t responded to the “benefit” of a longer speaking time allocation.

But in reinstating the Tuesday public forum immediately prior to the ordinary meeting, he stressed that disruptive behaviour would not be tolerated.

“Having groups of people (at the public forum) before the meeting encouraged poor behaviour,” he said.

“It was much like Question

Time in Parliament – and that is the antithesis of what good governance is about.”

Hart also stressed that there are “clear boundaries” on his

Sue Murray

role and he could not personally intervene on operational matters.

Source: Central Coast Council meeting, Jun 27

Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

Schedule 1: Crown Road at Bushells Ridge; adjoining 555 Bushells Ridge Road. (File Ref: 23/00933, Cluster: 640794)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement. Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 For the Manager, Business Centre Newcastle

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Tracey Ward by email at tracey.ward@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 4904 2576 quoting file references above.

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with Wiseberry staff members Jye Dunn, Tammy Jackett and Kiara Kelly

Crackneck Lookout reopens following upgrade

Top whale-watching spot Crackneck Lookout has reopened with a whole new look and significantly upgraded facilities.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Central Coast Area Manager Steve Atkins said the upgrades have revitalised the stunning location, creating a more accessible and user-friendly visitor precinct.

“Crackneck Lookout in Wyrrabalong National Park is very popular with the local community and is one of the best locations to observe whales on the Central Coast,” he said.

“Visitors to Central Coast national parks contribute more than $1B to our local economy each year and help generate over 2,520 jobs for the region.

“It’s fantastic to see this national park project completed so that locals and visitors to the

Central Coast can enjoy the site’s unique vantage point as the annual humpback whale migration continues.”

The upgraded lookout includes new viewing areas and

wheelchair-friendly pathways to make the precinct more accessible for all visitors, as well as an expanded visitor precinct featuring a landscaped picnic area with timber and

sandstone seating.

The carpark has also been upgraded to improve safety and provide accessible parking, with the creation of 55 parking spaces as well as a formalised

minibus parking bay and a number of wheelchair friendly parking spaces.

“The new arrangement will improve visitor safety, provide universal access to the

Paddle-out protest over wind farm

spectacular ocean views, including for those in parked vehicles, and better manage the flow of traffic during peak periods,” Atkins said.

“For those whale watching enthusiasts, new information signage about humpback whales and their annual migration has been installed.”

The upgrade was carefully planned by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) team, considering both conservation and improving visitor infrastructure.

Following public consultation in September 2021, the concept design was adjusted to reduce environmental impacts. Works were completed by local Aboriginal-owned company Goanna Services.

Source: Department of Planning and Environment

From page 1

He said lack of notification and appropriate and meaningful community consultation were of large concern.

“There’s evidence suggesting that these monstrous turbines can directly impact the migration pathway of the humpback, southern right, minke and pygmy blue whales.

“Construction of turbines will require sonar floor mapping which is known to temporarily,

and in some cases permanently, impair the hearing of mammals using echo location.”

Anderson said strikes by vessels associated with the construction and maintenance of the turbines posed a great risk to wildlife, especially large and slow-moving fauna near the surface and other marine life including dolphins, turtles, seals and sharks.

“This, coupled with the impact on the migratory paths of critically endangered birds

when over 700 giant turbines are installed, makes this an environmental disaster waiting to happen,” he said.

“There are also known impacts of electromagnetic frequency (EMF) on critically endangered species including rays, white sharks and grey nurse sharks and other species that are important to our economy, such as lobsters and crabs.

“The northern end of the Central Coast is renowned for

its undeveloped visual beauty and pristine coastline.

“A major eyesore such as this will certainly reduce property value and severely affect commercial fishing due to loss of fishing grounds.

“Residents and tourists enjoy whale watching, swimming, surfing, boating and other recreational activities which are directly tied to the coastline.

“The installation of towering turbines will dominate the

landscape and ruin our way of life forever.”

Anderson said many were concerned about how the proposal would affect the area’s “amazing surf breaks”.

“Floating wind turbines have been identified to greatly reduce overall swell, causing surface water disturbance which will decrease wave speed and power,” he said.

“We are urging the community to write to their local political

representatives and politely but firmly demand that this is taken off the table.

“If we are going to protect our home from these kinds of threats to our environment, lifestyle, primary industries and local economy, this must be where we stand firmly together and draw a line in the sand.”

Source: Love Norah Head

Crackneck Lookout is one of the most popular whale-watching spots on the Central Coast | Photo John Spencer, DPE

Protesters conducted a paddle-out | Photo: Mac Snaps

Some came armed with protest signs

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A salute to Hayley on World Ranger Day

job in the world, working as Manager of Conservation for Aussie Ark.”

Shute has hand-raised more 50 orphan animals and is known as the koala whisperer, specialising in raising Australia’s most iconic marsupial.

Another career highlight is breeding and rewilding endangered species with the Aussie Ark team which enables animals to “live and thrive in the wild as they should”.

Employee of the Year.

On World Female Ranger Day, Shute said she wanted to encourage girls and women worldwide to become wildlife rangers.

“We need more passionate people, we need heroes, we need people who are going to be at the front of conservation and get bloodied and bruised… but the beneficiary is our wildlife,” she said.

paid work.

She hasn’t looked back since.

“I’ve been in this industry for almost 25 years,” she said.

“And today I’ve got the best

Shute’s dedication as ranger and conservationist was recognised at last year’s NSW Business Awards when she was won the coveted award of the state’s most Outstanding

Veterans encouraged to take part in survey

Central Coast veterans and their families are being encouraged to give their feedback as the NSW Government begin consultation on how their service can be further acknowledged.

The survey is an important step to hear directly from the veteran community in response to the proposal to establish a new memorial to honour their

service and sacrifice.

The NSW Office for Veterans Affairs is leading the consultation process which includes an online survey for veterans of recent operations, as well as forums to enable further discussion once the survey results have been analysed.

The information received from the survey and community consultation will complement

the current NSW Government Veterans Strategy and Actional Plan which is in place until the end of 2024.

Minister for Veterans and Member for Wyong David Harris said the Government is working hard to ensure that veterans and their families are acknowledged and supported.

“I encourage all veterans from recent conflicts and peacekeeping operations to

share their thoughts via an online survey so we can hear what the community values as an important way to honour their service,” he said.

“The survey is completely anonymous, and it is important that veterans and their families share their views with us.

“The results will be analysed, and the data will then help inform us about the needs and wishes of our

To learn more about the work done by Aussie Ark Wildlife Rangers and Manager of Conservation Hayley Shute please go to aussieark.org.au

Source: Australian Reptile Park

veteran community.

“This could be a new memorial to honour contemporary service, a living and interactive memorial space that veterans and their families can use, or other ideas.”

The survey closes on Sunday, July 9, at www.veterans.nsw. gov.au/survey

Source: Minister for Veterans Affairs David Harris

Changed traffic conditions at West Gosford

There will be changed overnight traffic conditions for another couple of weeks on the Central Coast Hwy between West Gosford and Kariong.

Geotechnical investigations began on June 18 and will be carried out for about one kilometre on the westbound lanes of the highway between 7.30pm and 5am Sunday to

Thursday until mid-July, weather permitting.

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

Oversize overmass (OSOM) vehicles with a load width more than 4m will not be able to travel westbound during work hours due to lane closures.

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

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Source: Transport for NSW

Hayley Shute with a squirrel glider | Photo Australian Reptile Park

Head Office Administration & Crematorium Chapel - 249 Pacific Hwy, Ourimbah

Minister for Veterans Affairs David Harris

Central Coast Hwy at West Gosford, looking up towards Kariong

Record numbers spotted on whale census day

More than 5,000 whales were spotted on their pilgrimage north on Sunday, June 25, as the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) held its 24th annual Census Day.

With 3,251 spotted during last year’s census, this year’s total of 5,092 represents a 57 per cent increase, with more expected to be added as a few last whale watchers log their sightings online.

The day saw hundreds of Central Coast whale watchers join fellow enthusiasts from Sydney to the Gold Coast from

The Empire Bay war memorial will undergo a major restoration, thanks to $8,500 in funding through Round 2 of the State Government’s Community War Memorials Fund.

Empire Bay Progress Association President Ken Shaw said the cenotaph was unveiled in 1947 and, over the years, various repairs have been undertaken.

“Even with ongoing attention, the base of the memorial had

as early as 5.30am.

Conditions were perfect, with the wind staying away until the late afternoon, and swell minimal at most coastal locations.

The ORRCA Census Day has been run every year since 2000, providing a valuable opportunity for members of the public to engage in citizen science, learn more about whales and their management, and to also learn about ORRCA’s work.

Due to the overwhelming response to this year’s event, a second census and picnic day will be held for the southern migration in September – giving

participants the opportunity to see whales and their calves travel south from warmer waters, with more details to be released in coming months.

As an all-volunteer

organisation focused on the conservation, protection and welfare of whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs in Australian waters, ORRCA relies on the support of the Australian

community, maintaining a network of trained rescuers who respond to marine mammal incidents around the clock, throughout the year.

ORRCA’s work is diverse, ranging from single rescue incidents in local areas to providing support during internationally recognised incidents in remote locations.

ORRCA is the only volunteer marine mammal rescue group licensed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to carry out rescue and research activities involving marine mammals.

It receives no regular

Upgrade for Empire Bay memorial

reached a significant state of decay,” he said.

Shaw said the funding would allow the memorial to be restored to as close as possible to its original condition.

He said the restoration would remain true to the original design and materials, producing a memorial the community could be proud of for generations to come.

“The memorial takes pride of place in the bay,” he said.

“The gardens, plinths and

honour rolls are lovingly maintained by local volunteers.

“Each morning and evening the flag is raised and lowered as a sign of remembrance.

“There is a significant Anzac Day commemoration which involves local, state and federal representation.

“Local schools the RFS and other community organisations are also represented.

“Approximately 500 residents from Empire Bay attend; this is a major event for the community.

“The Progress Association would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the funding including the Returned and Services League of Australia NSW (RSL NSW), Central Coast Council and heritage advisors.”

Shaw said the work was expected to be completed over the next three to four months.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the investment would be appreciated not only by the Empire Bay Progress Association, but by

the wider community.

“War memorials like the one at Empire Bay play an important role in our community, especially onAnzac Day and Remembrance Day services here on the Central Coast,” he said.

Minister for Veterans and Member for Wyong David Harris said the memorial was just one of 22 statewide to share more than $125,000 in funding.

“War memorials are a vital part of our community that reflect over 100 years of our

government funding, relying on community and business assistance to sustain its efforts.

For those wishing to become involved,a range of opportunities are available – including the opportunity to become a rescue trained member.

Details of ORRCA’s training season can be found at orrca. org.au.

ORRCA asks members of the public to report all injured, stranded, or entangled marine mammals to the Rescue Hotline on 9415 3333.

Source: ORRCA

veterans’ service and sacrifice,” he said.

Harris said 46 applications from 34 local government areas were received during Round 2 and were assessed by the State War Memorials Committee. Grants ranged from $1,600 to $10,000 to fund conservation projects in 18 local government areas.

Round 1 of the 2023/24 grant program is now open and closes on July 25.

Terry Collins

Where:

Dates:

• Monday 3rd July

• Tuesday 4th July

• Wednesday 5th July

10am until 3pm Daily

A humpback whale breaching | Photo: Brett Lobwein

Legacy torch relay comes to Gosford

The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay 2023, presented by Defence Health, will come to Gosford next month to celebrate Legacy’s 100th birthday.

The relay is a worldwide campaign to honour and acknowledge veterans’ families, saluting their sacrifice for 100 years.

It began its journey in Pozières, France on April 23 with an official opening ceremony, then travelled to Menin Gate, Belgium, and on to London before arriving in Australia where it will visit all Legacy Club locations around the country.

The Australian relay started in Albany, Western Australia, and then visited South Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland before coming to NSW.

After NSW it will continue its journey through Victoria and Tasmania, culminating in Melbourne, where the first

Legacy Club was established 100 years ago, on Friday, October 13.

The Central Coast leg of the relay arrives in Gosford on Saturday, July 15.

Brisbane Water Legacy CEO Peter Lawley said Minister for Veterans and for the Central

Coast David Harris will launch the relay at 10am at Legacy Village in Gosford.

It will then head to Lions Park next to Gosford Olympic Pool, then along the pathway edging Brisbane Water, under Brian McGowan Bridge, around Industree Stadium, into the

Gosford Waterfront park and up to the Gosford Cenotaph before returning to finish at Legacy Village.

There will be 15 torchbearers and six Legacy widows participating.

“Legacy Australia Inc was founded in 1923 on a promise

made to help veterans’ families carry on with their lives after the loss or injury of their loved one,” Lawley said.

“Brisbane Water Legacy on the Central Coast has been in existence since 1951.

“In addition to community welfare and advocacy support for our families and widows of veterans, we operate an affordable rental retirement village at Point Frederick, which we are about to redevelop.

“We currently have 800 enrolled beneficiaries.

“Legacy on the Central Coast spends almost $1M each year on providing support to our families of veterans through housing, medical and ancillary health financial support, social clubs and outings.

“We also fund scholarships for descendants of veterans in tertiary or other study.

“Since 1971 we have paid out $682,000 to more than 60 recipients.

“All this is funded by Legacy

Have a barbie in the winter sunshine

Many Coasties and visitors are taking advantage of the winter sunshine to enjoy picnics at the region’s many reserves and parks and there’s nothing quite like a barbecue to warm us from the inside out.

Central Coast Council has many barbecue amenities which are free to use and provide the perfect meeting place for family and friends.

Council staff have compiled a list of their own favourite barbecue sites to share with residents who may not be aware of them.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services

Melanie Smith said Council was delighted to provide so many free barbecue facilities for locals and visitors to use in the region.

“The diverse locations of the barbecues enable users to enjoy the surrounding parks,

ocean views and adjoining beaches around the Coast,” she said.

“While our Council crews check and regularly clean the barbecue facilities, we do ask that users are considerate to the next user and clean the hotplate after use.”

In Susan Fahey Park at Copacabana, the barbecues are nestled among the trees overlooking the playspace and grassed area next to the tennis courts.

At Ettalong Beach, you can have a barbie and take advantage of the adjoining

playspace and outdoor gym right on the foreshore.

Terrigal Haven has barbecue facilities close to the beach foreshore, with the adjoining playing field and off leash dog park added bonuses.

And Gosford Lions Park, set on the eastern side of Brisbane

on the Central Coast, through community donations, (a key annual donor is the Chapman Trust in Gosford), a strong investment portfolio and business activities from our retirement village, and previous aged care facilities (sold in 2015).”

Legacy Australia Chairman Eric Easterbrook said the torch relay was a fitting commemoration of a century of service.

“Over the decades, Legacy has had a significant impact on many spouses, partners and children of veterans in the state of NSW,” he said.

“We hope this relay will raise awareness of the important work Legacy does across the state in supporting our veterans’ families.”

To date torch bearers have raised more than $180,000 for Legacy.

Donations can be made at legacy.com.au/donate

Terry Collins

Heading further north, ocean and beach views are available while enjoying a barby at Jenny Dixon Reserve, Norah Head. The Entrance Memorial Park is always a good meeting place for a barbie and you can check out the new visitor information centre while you’re there. Braithwaite Park, at the corner of Yarramalong Rd and Old Maitland Rd at Wyong, is picturesque with its rural backdrop.

Water, is a great place to watch the sun set over the water while enjoying an early evening barbecue.

At Woy Woy Lions Park you can enjoy the foreshore reserve and playspace, with the local pelicans often popping by to say hi.

Solar panels for Davistown hall

Davistown Progress Association (DPA) is set to install solar panels on Davistown hall to ensure energy efficiency, thanks to an $8,500 grant through the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program Round 8.

Association President Jenny McCulla said the solar panel installation would save the community money in years to come and be a valuable contribution towards being

more energy efficient.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid popped into the hall to announce the funding and congratulate the association.

“I am a supporter of renewable energy and projects that aim to make our communities energy resilient,” Reid said.

“I know that with the addition of these solar panels, Davistown Progress Association will be able to reduce its overheads and carbon footprint.”

If it’s water views you’re after, visit the foreshore reserve in Tuggerah Pde at Long Jetty or the boat harbour reserve on Cams Blvd at Summerland Point.

Swadling Reserve at Toowoon Bay overlooks the beach and also has a playspace. Please report any barbecue faults to Council.

Source: Central Coast Council

The Stronger Communities Program is an annual Federal Government grant opportunity. It provides not-for-profit organisations with funding between $2,500 and $20,000.

To find out more go to www. infrastructure.gov.au/territories -regions-cities/regional-austra lia/regional-and-communityprograms/stronger-communities -programme

The boat harbour reserve on Cams Blvd at Summerland Point is a top meeting spot

In Susan Fahey Park at Copacabana, the barbecues are nestled among the trees

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with representatives of the Davistown Progress Association at the hall

The handover of the torch in Cairns

Coast Connect

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

12-month forward plan for community engagement

At the 27 June Council Meeting, I considered an Administrator’s Minute which aimed to increase transparency and foresight for the community on Council’s community engagement activities.

I requested that Council prepare a publicly available, 12-month forward plan for community engagement, which can help keep the community informed and will detail how the community can get involved.

Central Coast Council is about to begin its last complete financial year under the current period of Administration before Councillors return in September 2024.

During my appointment as Administrator, I have met with many individuals, community groups, resident associations, and committees to connect and engage with the community. During some of these conversations, people have expressed they’d like to be more involved in Council matters that impact them, or that they have a particular interest in.

At times, some community members have indicated they had not been aware Council was undertaking community consultation on a certain project or weren’t sure how to stay abreast of community consultation that may be coming up during the months ahead. While there may be instances when engagement projects arise during this period which were not determined at the time of this forward plan, I am seeking for the 12-month forward plan to present the most accurate picture of engagement for the year ahead.

I look forward to considering the Council’s report which I have requested be provided by the August 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting.

Did you miss the last Council meeting?

Re-watch the webcast on our YouTube channel at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ meetings

Maintaining communication in an emergency

Solar and battery systems have been installed at 20 local Rural Fire Stations, to ensure services can operate independently should a grid power fail occur during natural disasters. Council partnered with NSW Public Works to manage this initiative, which is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.

To see the list of fire stations, search ‘solar and battery project’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Weekly road works rolling across the Coast

Road works continue each week to fill potholes, and longer-term road repairs such as heavy patching or road renewals. Some of the suburbs you may have seen our crews’ undertaking works over the past few weeks include Berkeley Vale, Budgewoi, Erina, Halekulani, Forresters Beach, Lake Munmorah, Long Jetty, Umina, Wyongah, and Woy Woy.

For weekly road updates, search ‘road updates’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Were you affected by floods in 2022?

There are a number of flood recovery grants and payments available for property owners, renters, businesses and farmers by the NSW Government. In addition, Peppercorn Recovery Support Service has a designated team of local support workers who can assist residents impacted by the March 2022 floods.

To check your eligibility, search ‘flood support’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Supporting local creatives on the Coast

Congratulations to the five professional and two emerging local creatives that have been selected to deliver innovative and contemporary new works as part of our ‘Creative Art Central’ program 2022/23. Our successful creatives will now deliver their projects and share their talents with the wider community.

For more, search ‘creative art central’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

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

Check out our winter school holiday program

School holidays are almost here, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our winter school holiday program.

There’s lots of free or affordable events to capture the interest of all ages delivered by our regional gallery, libraries, leisure centres, theatres and youth services.

For all school holiday events, centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events

Did you know?

We offer BBQ and picnic facilities

We’ve compiled a list of our favourite spots for you to enjoy across the Coast, which have electric BBQs, picnic tables, and nearby public toilets.

Although our crews regularly clean the BBQ facilities, please be considerate to the next user and clean the hot plate after use.

To see full list, search ‘BBQ areas’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Central Coast Council news and community information

Member for Robertson

Gordon Reid is urging the State Government to ensure the Central Coast receives its fair share of $610M in funding for social housing.

The NSW Government is set to receive the money from the Federal Government through the $2B Social Housing Accelerator Fund Payment to help it deliver thousands of new social homes across the state.

All states and territories will have flexibility in how they permanently boost social housing stock, including through new builds, expanding existing programs, renovating, or refurbishing existing but

Push for fair share of social housing funds

currently uninhabitable housing stock.

Reid has urged the NSW State Government to not overlook the Central Coast region.

“On the Central Coast, we are experiencing high demand for rental properties, where supply is not keeping pace,” he said.

“This is putting upward pressure on rental prices and creating challenging conditions for young and vulnerable people accessing the housing market.

“The region is also suffering from an acute shortage of housing, including homes, townhouses, and apartments.

“I have written to NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson

to urge her not to overlook the region when it comes to distributing these funds across NSW.”

Reid said he would continue

to keep the community updated on the outcome.

“According to data from the Department of Families and Community Services, the

Central Coast has 1500 people on the waitlist, with an average wait time of 10 years to get a social housing property,” he said.

Reid said the Housing Australia Future Fund has been established by the Federal Government to address the housing crisis.

“Disappointingly, the Liberals and The Greens have formed a coalition to stall the legislation’s passage through the Senate,” he said.

“(They) are choosing to play political shenanigans rather than assist the Federal Government provide solutions for the nation’s housing crisis.”

Reid is encouraging Central

Coast residents to contact Liberal and Greens’ Members of State and Federal Parliaments to tell them to stop blocking progress and has established an online petition. It can be accessed at www. drgordonreidmp.com.au/ourcoast-community/housingfor-the-central-coast-petition/ or more information about the Federal Government’s Housing Australia Future Fund visit: ministers.treasury.gov.au/ ministers/julie-collins-2022 /media-releases/housingaustralia-future-fund-draftlegislation

New environmental group to protect Coast’s interests as Six Cities plan proceeds

A new environmental advisory committee has been formed on the Central Coast to protect the region’s interests as the Six Cities plan proceeds.

The move follows a recent meeting between community groups and Central Coast Cities Commissioner Robyn Parker hosted by Kariong Progress Association in May.

Parker spoke on the Six Cities Region plan under the Greater Cities Commission (GCC) and implications for the Central Coast .

The plan seeks to transform the Central Coast into a Global City and a SMART City.

Group spokesperson Kate Mason said the Central Coast Environmental Advisory Committee had been formed, including members of the National Indigenous Party, Coast Environmental Alliance,

Community Voice Australia –Central Coast, Narara EcoVillage and Traditional Custodians of the Central Coast.

“Our group plans on working closely with Ms Parker, whose role is to ensure local concerns are heard and addressed by Local and State Government and Government agencies, to ensure that our precious environment is well represented

as this moves forward,” Mason said.

“We are concerned that there are committees formed for various other aspects of the plan such as a First Nations Advisory Panel and a Youth Advisory Panel but nothing set up to ensure our environment is protected.

“So we decided to take that initiative and formed this group.

“While Commissioner Parker told the group that any development would be sustainable, the environmental impact of moving another 88 000 residents into our area needs to be looked at very closely.

“We want to understand what the Greater Cities Commission is referring to as sustainable and resilient housing, exactly what land will be targeted for

development, as well as the financial modelling of the Affordable Housing scheme and where profits will go.

“To think that 88 000 new residents won’t have an impact on already strained infrastructure would be naive.

“Our primary objective is to look closely at the environmental impacts of this plan and ensure that the community has a voice in decisions that are being made.

“The way it is currently set up, there are no official channels for the community to be heard and that’s really not acceptable.”

Mason said Chief Commissioner Geoff Roberts had made it clear in the draft GCC Community Participation Plan that there would be a focus on meaningful engagement, accessibility and inclusion and transparent

Brandon’s mission to help others

Young Brandon Keene loves dogs and he also loves helping people.

The 12-year-old Point Frederick youngster has found a way to combine the two by becoming an official fundraiser for Delta Therapy Dogs.

A junior with the Terrigal Roosters, Brandon decided to run a raffle and asked the Sydney Roosters to donate prizes.

The club was impressed with his mission and donated a jersey with 15 signatures for first prize and a family pass to one of its home games as the second prize, with the raffle to be drawn at a Roosters home game on July 15.

Delta Therapy Dogs aims to help animals and people bring

joy to each other, with a belief that the human-animal bond improves quality of life.

Its therapy dogs bring comfort to a range of people, including those suffering from anxiety and depression and/or ill health and the aged.

The organisation’s programs include visits to hospitals, aged care facilities, mental health facilities, dementia wards, palliative care, disability services, health clinics, schools, correctional facilities and workplaces.

Brandon’s rationale in becoming a fundraiser was simple.

“I love dogs and when I heard about Delta and found out they didn’t have many fundraisers I thought It would be nice to help,” he said.

“I think there is a strong connection between dogs and people and I just want to help give people an extra smile and a boost of happiness.”

He was motivated by the joy he finds in his own dog, Golden

Retriever Honey.

“Honey makes me so happy and I wanted other people to feel that too,” he said.

“I feel happy most of the time and am lucky to have a very happy family – I just want other people to feel the same as me.

“I don’t like the thought of other people feeling sad – it’s not a very nice feeling.”

Brandon is no stranger to altruism.

Two years ago he organised fellow students at Kariong Public School to compile a range of artworks for the children’s ward at Gosford Hospital.

Brandon’s Dad Phil said he was a mature and caring boy.

“He’s always looking for

opportunities to help others,” he said.

“When he came up with the idea of helping people through dogs he started researching charities that involved animals with my help.

“He found Delta is largely unknown and we realised any money he raised could be a huge help.”

Mum Christine said Brandon had even suggested the Roosters should have therapy dogs at their training sessions to help ease the stress associated with their disappointing season.

“Brandon knows that people are encouraged to talk about their depression and suicidal feelings but he thinks it’s also important to make them feel

decision making.

“We appreciate this sentiment and are ready to participate,” she said.

“Our next step is to ensure that groups such as ours are officially included in the decision-making processes.

“To this end, we have reached out a number of times to Ms Parker to arrange a meeting.

“She seemed open to the idea at the (meeting) but since hasn’t responded to our attempts at contact.

“We will persevere.”

The group will provide regular updates on the Community Voice Australia – Central Coast Facebook page and can be contacted at community voicecentralcoast@tutanota .com

Source: Central Coast Environmental Advisory Committee

happy and make them smile,” she said.

“He loves his footy and when his Dad told him recently that chess would help his on field strategic thinking he got serious about playing and in a short period of time became the best chess player at his school.

“He just played in his first external tournament and did very well.

“He’s a unique young man.”

Tickets for Brandon’s fundraising raffle can be purchased at the Terrigal Football Club home ground, Brendan Franklin Oval, on weekends.

Terry Collins

Brandon Keene with his dog Honey

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

More housing will be needed to cope with expected population growth

Concerned resident groups met with Commissioner Robin Parker in May

Access to the shared pathway from Adcock Ave to the pedestrian crossing west of the Brian McGowan Bridge in Gosford will be restricted until July 14 as Central Coast Council completes sewer work.

The construction of a Sewer Rising Main from the Sewer Pump Station in Adcock Ave to the crossing is part of Council’s program of works to support growth in Gosford, set for

Restricted pathway access in Gosford

completion next year.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the infrastructure will be critical as we move toward transforming Gosford into an iconic waterfront city.

“This program of works will prepare Gosford to meet the needs of our community and visitors for the next 30 years,” he said.

Council’s Director of Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said these works are a key part of

ensuring residents across the area have access to reliable water and sewer services.

“These works include the construction of a new Sewer Rising Main and a new Sewer Pump Station,” he said.

“Council has placed visual messaging signboards at the strip of road, encouraging people to use an alternate route on their morning walk, run or bike ride.

“It is important that the

community observes the signage and for their own safety, stays away from these works during construction hours.”

Work on the project will run between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

It is funded by the NSW Government in association with Council.

Talks on accessing state archives

Central Coast Family History Society will host a special series of talks on July 1 about the State Archives Collection presented by Fiona Sullivan, Manager Access Services at Museums of History of NSW (MHNSW).

Group spokesperson Marlene Davidson said the NSW State Archives Collection was a unique and irreplaceable part of Australian cultural heritage dating back to 1788.

“MHNSW is constantly exploring new ways to make it accessible,” she said.

“Family and local historians are always amazed at the

records hidden in the NSW Archives at Kingswood – 89 linear kilometres of records are filed, with many available online.”

The first session on July 1

will explore research methods and techniques for discovering the state archives collection via the MHNSW website.

“In the second session we

will highlight some of the new indexes, guides, digitised archives and copy services that have been made available online,” Davidson said.

The sessions will be held from 10.30am-3pm on July 1 at the Lions Community Hall East Gosford.

For bookings call 4324 5164

Tuesday-Friday or email:

admin@centralcoastfhs.org.au

Society

Source: Central Coast Family History

Robert Findley and Robyn Gregg conducting a State Archives search

89 linear kilometres of records are on file

Man trapped in car after accident

Illegal firearms found at Wyoming

An elderly man was trapped inside his car following a two-vehicle collision on Wednesday, June 21 at Lake Haven outside Bunnings.

Members of Central Coast VRA Rescue Squad and

Doyalson Fire and Rescue worked swiftly to remove the driver’s side of the vehicle while NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the patient inside the car to stabilise his

condition.

Chelmsford Rd outside Bunnings was closed for a short period while the extrication took place. Thanks to the combined effort of all services, the man was successfully released from the

vehicle and promptly transported to hospital for further treatment of injuries including broken ribs and a collapsed lung.

Source: Doyalson Fire and Rescue/VRA Rescue

Salute to workers in community policing

A man has been charged with several firearm offences following a police search.

Acting on information received officers attached to Brisbane Water Police District executed a search warrant on a residence in Japonica Dr, Wyoming, at about 2pm on Wednesday, June 21.

Police located several firearms hidden behind a wall which were seized for forensic examination.

Following the investigation police arrested a 38-year-old man in Wyoming who was taken to Gosford Police Station. The man was charged with possess unregistered firearm, possess unauthorised firearm and not keep firearm safely. He was granted conditional bail to appear before Gosford Local Court in August.

Source: Brisbane Water Police

Demerit points trial rewards safe drivers

Tuggerah Lakes Police

District 2023 Awards

Ceremony was held on Thursday, June 22, to recognise work in the community done by police, unsworn staff and Volunteers in Police.

This year’s annual awards were presented at the Council Chambers in Wyong to publicly acknowledge 54 people across 60 awards in front of colleagues, community leaders, family and friends.

Awards presented include The National Emergency Medal, National Medal and clasps, National Police Service Medal, Police medal and clasps, Region Awards, District Awards, and Volunteers in Police awards with three recipients honoured for their combined 7,000 hours of volunteering.

The Region awards included acknowledgements for the emergency response to an incident at Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre at Kariong; a long and complex emergency response to the COVID pandemic and, lastly, the initial police response to a very confronting crime scene which ultimately resulted in vital evidence being secured for a court matter.

District awards included the celebration of staff involved in strike forces and pro-active crime teams.

They were acknowledged as being at the forefront of the disruption of crime syndicates involvement in the manufacture and supply of illicit substances. Two civilians were acknowledged for their actions

involving CPR which ultimately saved the life of a young child who was pulled unconscious from a swimming pool. They chose to receive their awards privately.

Superintendent Chad Gillies said it was an important day on the policing calendar.

“Our police and unsworn staff work tirelessly day and night to keep our community safe and Tuggerah Lakes is a dynamic and challenging command,” he said.

“For us to take just a couple of hours for our men and women to be acknowledged in front of their peers, family, friends and the broader community is the least we can do.

“I continue to be amazed at the quality and volume of work being done here and I’m proud to be the Commander of these

dedicated professionals at Tuggerah Lakes.”

Students from MacKillop Catholic College at Warnervale performed the National Anthem and another piece to entertain the crowd at the awards ceremony.

Official guests included Acting Assistant Commissioner Tracy Chapman APM (Northern Region), Brisbane Water Police District Superintendent Darryl Jobson, Port Stephens Hunter Police District Superintendent Wayne Humphrey APM, Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart, Police Chaplain Reverend Aleks Pinter and Geoff Talbot representing the Central Coast branch of the Retired and Former Police Association.

Source: Tuggerah Lakes Police

Helicopter medics to the rescue

Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to Yaramalong on Thursday, June 22, to help a man in a motorcycle accident.

The accident was north-west of Wyong and the man, aged in his 50s, sustained shoulder and leg injuries.

He was treated at the accident scene by the Helicopter Critical Care Medical Team before being flown to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for further treatment.

Source: Westpac Rescue

Hundreds of Central Coast drivers will be eligible to have a demerit point scrubbed from their licence record as the NSW Government’s trial to encourage safer driving comes into effect six months sooner than flagged.

Drivers who have maintained a clean record since January 17 this year will need to continue that spotless behaviour until January 17 next year to qualify to have a demerit point removed from their record.

Announced during the March State election, the trial had originally been slated to start on July 1, but the Government has brought the date forward.

Transport for NSW will take a snapshot of the demerit point register as it stood on January 17 this year to identify all unrestricted and professional licence holders with active demerit points recorded against them.

Under the 12-month trial, eligible motorists who have at least one demerit point on their record from January 17 but remain offence-free for 12 months to January 17, 2024,

will have one demerit point removed from their driving record.

It normally takes three years for a demerit point to be expunged.

It is expected to take about three months to finalise offences, so eligible drivers will start seeing one demerit point removed from their records starting in mid-April 2024.

Learner and provisional licence holders are not included in the trial given they are subject to strict conditions of the Graduated Licensing Scheme.

Premier Chris Minns said the aim of the trail was to reduce the road toll and reward safe drivers.

“It’s time we put safety back at the centre of our road rules, not revenue raising,” he said.

“This is an appropriate way for good drivers to earn a point back.

“Our message couldn’t be clearer: drive safely and you’ll get a point scrubbed from your licence.

“The more people who qualify for a point, the safer our roads.”

Source: NSW Government

The injured man was flown to hospital

Recipients at Tuggerah Lakes Police awards ceremony

It was a joint effort from rescue teams

A cache of firearms found by police

DAVID

San Remo resident Cole Nocera will head off for the bright lights of Las Vegas on July 21 to compete in the Regency International Pageant (RIO).

Named Mrs Australia Regency International 2023, Nocera will compete along with other members of the Australian team for international honours.

“I am a youth homelessness case worker and a disability support worker here on the Central Coast, which is an absolutely blessing,” she said.

“It is such a fulfilling role for me and has helped me grow individually as well.

“I’m hugely involved in my community and volunteer a lot of time mentoring youth and women around life skills and self confidence.

“I love running charity events and fundraisers as well as volunteering with charities such as Starlight Children’s

Coast beauty queen is off to Las Vegas

Foundation, Pink Ribbon Day and White Ribbon Gay for domestic violence and advocating for peri and postnatal depression and anxiety.

“This is something I’m very passionate about spreading awareness of as someone who suffered both.”

Nocera has been competing in pageantry since 2015.

“I have learned so much about myself and gained immense personal growth through public speaking and self-love,” she said.

She enjoys promoting positive body image and representing diverse culture and ethnicity.

“I took a break two years prior to giving birth to my daughter in July last year,” she said.

“I had suffered peri-natal depression where I had suicide idealisations, chronic stress and fatigue.

“It wasn’t until afterwards

that the PNDA kicked in and I suffered a lot.

“I couldn’t figure out who I was now and felt (I had) a loss of identity.

“So I went back to what I knew was going to get me out

of this funk – and that was competing in a pageant.”

Nocera returned to take part in the National Australia Miss Pageant (NAMP) to score her first win after a weekend of panel interviews

and fashion shoots.

“Judging is strictly based on how well your personality comes through, grace in walking, how well you chose your clothing to fit and colour and engagement with the judges,” she said.

Having earned her place on the Australian team as Mrs Australia Regency International 2023, will take part in pageant week in Las Vegas from July 25, with crowning on July 29.

“Being a national title holder is amazing, because you (encourage) many others to take on the challenge to achieve those goals – to challenge society’s expectations around beauty, advocate for your groups and be the best version of yourself.”

Nocera is hoping to return to the Central Coast with the title of Mrs International Regency.

“There is a whole world out there that needs more inspiring,

More detail needed on proposed university

As a local who claims we need a truly Central Coast University, I note the proposal of the Chancellor Institute (CCN 395).

Perhaps it has the potential to be what I and others envisage.

But much more is required than a few undergraduate courses and Master’s degree provisions in liaison with industry.

If the Chancellor Institute is serious about creating a university, planning must acknowledge the differences between it and a tertiary

FORUM

college or special-purpose institute.

The concern of a university is knowledge—creating, critiquing, conserving and communicating it with students and with others nationally and internationally.

Money supports these endeavours, not the other way around.

Perhaps some research is in mind, but this is not clear, given that “Master’s degrees by

course work” are common practice these days.

Among the academic establishment, there is increasing concern that managerialism and vocationalism within universities are destroying the traditional “community of scholars”’.

This is acceptable if we want universities to be very efficient machines churning out people for narrowly-defined jobs.

Is this what is intended?

I claim that being a valued professional in this and future

Australia demands that we are comfortable interacting in diverse and unexpected ways, whether in our paid work or as community members.

A rich university education contributes, not just through some interdisciplinary studies, but also by informal interaction beyond one’s own discipline.

For me, though in a full-time job, as a Health Sciences student it was in drama, fencing, the canteen and attending public lectures.

There is no evidence in the article that such opportunities

are envisaged, nor that faculties will extend beyond Business and IT, Allied Health and Early Education.

Furthermore, as the result of research and critical thinking, a university has a responsibility to contribute to the world’s stock of fundamental knowledge, not just to sell its skills to industry.

The latter is perhaps implied; I see no evidence of the former.

COVID and increasing proportions of students in concurrent employment have made distance delivery the

More on the Voice to Parliament

Re Gary Field’s comments (Setting facts straight on the Voice to Parliament, CCN394).

Gary declares his intentions “to correct a number of errors of fact” contained (in) Linda Telisman’s published letter (CNN392).

His statement may itself be an “error of fact”.

In Gary’s extensive letter he identified and referred to just one supposed “error of fact” while predominantly concentrating on, overtly and tacitly promoting the Voice.

FORUM

Gary identified that single supposed “error of fact” by saying “Telisman’s falsely named secret government documents…”

Secret government documents may or may not be an “error of fact”, but it is a fact that those documents were only released by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, when forced to do so, under freedom of information laws.

Gary responded to that by

saying “They are individual views expressed during the 2016 National Indigenous Dialogue … leading up to the National Constitution Convention at Uluru.”

He went on to say “In fact, 97 per cent of the Convention delegates endorsed the Uluru Statement from the Heart.”

That should come as no surprise to anybody, considering that 100 per cent of delegates MUST be Torres Strait Islanders or Aborigines.

What is a surprise, three per cent of the delegates

rejected it.

It’s fair to suggest that these individual speakers in particular and indeed the overwhelming majority who attend any National Indigenous Dialogue meeting, would almost certainly be a Torres Strait Islander or Aborigine.

Just as surely, these same individual speakers will be saying the same things if the Voice is enshrined in the Constitution.

Some of those things which Linda Telisman has revealed include treaties, truth telling

strong women to step up and be a voice, to keep changing the narrative around beauty norms,” she said.

“Being a mother does not mean we are weak, being a woman does not mean we cannot do – anything is achievable.

“Sometimes you have to fail a couple of times before you succeed.

“I have been so lucky to be supported and sponsored by some Indigenous businesses.

“Koori Designs sponsored my national costume and Which Way Designs sponsored scrunchies for me to give the international delegates from Australia.

“Which Way Designs’ purpose is to help our mob wear our beautiful culture on a daily basis.”

preferred mode of provision for many.

It also aids in providers capturing distant enrolments. Is this what is meant by being a “life-style university”?

Let’s hope that such delivery would be only a part of course provision.

Otherwise the term “university” would be inappropriate and “Central Coast” irrelevant.

Email, Jun 24 Sonnie Hopkins, Tascott

commissions, rates/land tax/ royalties, reparations and more.

Furthermore, just last week in Alice Springs several delegates, who are all signatories to the “Statement of the Heart”, have revealed that they have been falsely named as supporters of the Voice (apparently by the Yes Vote Campaign).

These Aboriginal delegates were interviewed on TV saying “That canvas (document) is trouble”.

They denounced it and want nothing to do with it (the Voice).

In Gary’s letter he refers to his

and other Central Coast Aboriginal Organisations and some state governments currently working together to improve their lives.

For that I commend him. However, most of their plans and activities, as announced by Gary, concur with and confirm some of the things Linda Telisman has revealed, which I previously referred to.

Pro-nuclear brigade ignores inconvenient truth

The pro-nuclear brigade don’t give up, do they?

(Dark times ahead, CCN393)

Despite much correspondence published in the past, I have yet to hear of a realistic scheme to safely

dispose of not only the waste, but also the highly-radioactive reactor vessel once the plant has reached its commercial end of life.

Are these people deliberately ignoring this inconvenient truth, hoping that the sheep will not realise this obvious problem?

If and when a suitable scheme is developed then sensible people will no doubt support

nuclear energy; unless that happens then it will be the subsequent hazards of fossil fuels all over again. What exactly is wrong with renewable sources such as water, wind, solar, etc – all of which are free?

I am familiar with the tired old argument that “the sun doesn’t shine all the time”, but that’s why we have proven technologies such as highcapacity batteries (chemical energy), pumped water (potential energy), etc.

The way some of these proponents carry on, you’d think that they had shares in the nuclear industry.

Email, Jun 12 Dave

Horsfall, North Gosford

Email, Jun 25 Mark Duffy, Mount White

Source: Cole Nocera

Cole Nocera | Photo: Katherine Musgrave

Council has lots on offer during holidays

School holidays start next week and once again Central Coast Council has lots of free and affordable activities and events on offer.

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the popular school holiday program was delivered from a range of facilities including the Gosford Regional Gallery, libraries, leisure centres and theatres. “This winter we have a mix of activities to entertain and capture the interest all ages –

from a supersized gym room to a stop motion workshop, glow rooms, art and craft, gaming, indigenous virtual reality and lots more,” Smith said.

“One of the highlights of this holiday program is the celebration of NAIDOC week through virtual reality technology, as the Pamagirri group transports viewers (in a full 360-degree view) to Far North Queensland where they will demonstrate songs, legends and art.

“Gosford Regional Gallery events often book out fast, and

this winter program looks to be no different.

“Some events including expressive drawing for teens, Avatar mask painting, recycled paper weaving and patterns in nature workshops.

“Our leisure centres once again have learn-to-swim programs running and water slides open in our heated pools, and other activities to keep young bodies active.

“Our libraries are bringing back the ever popular glow room, gaming and crafts but this winter’s program is more

Bridge City Jazz Band comes to Gosford

Central Coast Leagues Club

Jazz League will present the seven-piece Bridge City Jazz Band this Sunday, July 2.

The Bridge City band is celebrating its 20-year anniversary this year and has visited the Central Coast on many occasions, several times for the monthly concerts of The CCLC Jazz League.

Leading the band this

weekend will be Geoff Power on trumpet, ably supported on the front line by Jack Wiard on reeds and Mike Hallam on trombone/harmonica.

Bradley Newman will be on the grand piano, Col Davies on bass, Dennis Quinlan on the banjo, and Joel Davis on drums.

CCLC Jazz League holds monthly jazz events in the Parkview Room of the Central Coast Leagues Club where

there’s plenty of room on the dance floor for lovers of ballroom, swing and jive. Proceedings kick off at 2pm and go until 5pm.

Tickets are $10 and all proceeds go to the CCLC Jazz Award Scholarships to help upand-coming young jazz musicians.

Source: CCLC Jazz League

than just fun and games.

“These holidays we are supporting students’ curricular activities by providing a range of STEAM programs, to bring an educational approach that combines science, technology, electronics, engineering, arts and maths with a mix of fun.

“We understand that students in Year 12 are likely to be focused on their studies these holidays, so our libraries have study spaces for students and a free HSC talk discussing strategies to boost results; presented by Dr Bruce Dennet.

There are lots of gaming options available

“He is co-author of 11 textbooks and has more than 45 years’ teaching experience.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the inclusive school holiday program had great activities without breaking the budget.

“With the cost of living a big concern for our community right now, I’m pleased that our school holiday events and activities are either free or affordably priced to help families entertain and keep their children busy,” Hart said.

“Council’s school holiday

program demonstrates the quality of Council’s community services that support families and foster creativity and community connectedness.”

View the full school holiday program on Council’s event web page at centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/whats-on (select ‘school holiday’ as a category to refine listings).

Source: Central Coast Council

A highlight will be the celebration of NAIDOC week through virtual reality technology

Maestros of comedy and family favourites The Listies are returning to The Art House Wyong with an hysterical new show for the July school holidays.

The Listies: ROFL (Rolling on the Floor Laughing) is a highlight of The Art House Presents school holiday program which is a brilliant introduction to theatre and theatrical experiences for children aged five and over.

Critical Stages Touring CEO Robbi James said it had been more than two years since they

5 Lands Walk basks in winter sunshine

The region’s largest participation event, the 5 Lands Walk held last weekend has been judged a success by walkers, volunteers and artists.

The official opening night concert was held at Avoca Beach that included original dance and music under the moonlight.

Earlier in the week a smoking ceremony was held at Kincumba Mountain, where this year’s message stick was entrusted to a young local Aboriginal man,

Lachlan Masters.

5 Lands Walk President Pauline Wright said the 5 Lands Walk was a truly a unique event in the country, developing from collaboration between Aboriginal peoples and the broader communities along the coast.

“The theme has always been connecting people to people, and people to place,” she said.

The original idea of the walk came after locals returned home from the famous north Italian walk the Cinque Terre.

Hilarious chaotic comedy a family favourite

were able to bring the fun of The Listies to audiences.

“It’s a delight to finally see Matt and Rich on the road again and after a sold-out season at the Sydney Opera House last summer, where thousands of young people got to enjoy their special brand of chaos and hilarity up close,” he said.

“I’m sure that families on the Central Coast will be genuinely rolling on the floor laughing when they come to Art House Wyong.”

ROFL is a bonkers sketch comedy extravaganza made

just for kids where The Listies tackle the most tortuous family situation of all – bed time.

Rich, the exhausted parental proxy, is trying to get an early night while his hapless,

hopeless housemate, Matt, deploys every trick in the book to stay up late.

Featuring toilet paper cannons, a real life Cowasaurus, lullabies of doom, detachable legs and a panoply of puns, ROFL is just as much fun for adults as it is children.

The multi-award-winning duo behind the show are Matthew Kelly and Richard Higgins, who united to perform absurdist comedy to adults but switched to full-time kids’ comedy in 2011.

To date, they have written and

This year’s walk followed the same formula as each year with a calling in of the whales at MacMasters Beach, leading to a day-long festival along 10km of the coastline, linking five villages from MacMasters Beach to Terrigal.

The walk has developed a sizable artistic showcase including art exhibitions at all the surf clubs as well as a sculpture exhibition on Avoca Beach.

produced nine critically acclaimed live shows, three “owl bums” and several books published by Penguin.

They can also be seen on ABC TV’s The Listies Work for Peanuts.

The Listies: ROFL (Rolling on the Floor Laughing) will be on stage at 10am and 6pm on Wednesday, July 5, with special Vacation Care ticket prices and family passes available.

Source: The Art House

Wednesday 16th August 2023

Commencing at 5.00pm (duration approx. 1 hour)

The Listies bringing their kids comedy to The Art House for the school holidays

The 5 Lands Walk kite flying at Avoca Beach

The Central Coast is once again gearing up for Chromefest – one of Australia’s biggest cars shows, set to return to The Entrance on October 27-29.

Classic show car owners of all makes and models pre1979 are invited to register their vehicle to be showcased at the annual event.

Council Unit Manager Community and Culture, Glenn Cannard, said no car show compared to the Central Coast’s home-grown ChromeFest where hundreds

Gearing up for Chromefest

of car enthusiasts, rock ‘n’ roll fans – including an Elvis cameo – come together for a threeday tribute to classic cars and everything 1950s and 60s.

“This year we’ve opened up ChromeFest car registrations to show car owners of all makes and models pre-1979 with a passion for car shining, and who have poured their blood sweat and tears into restoring their cars to deliver a work of art, ensuring a bigger and better event,” Cannard said. Show car registrations are

open until Monday, October 23, or until zone allocations are exhausted.

Cannard said the ChromeFest weekend had attracted more than 50,000 visitors in the past, so planning ahead was important for car show entrants.

“We encourage bookings for accommodation for participating car owners, general car enthusiasts and visitors to the Central Coast, to be made early,” he said.

“This is also an event for everyone, and we invite locals

and visitors to partake in a fun weekend that offers something for everyone.”

ChromeFest 2023 highlights will include: Show N’Shine and iconic classic car displays; retro market stalls, trade stalls and general market stalls; four outdoor stages with undercover dancefloors and live entertainment; a vintage glamour fashion parade; the Australian Pin Up Pageant NSW grand final; a hub at The Entrance Hotel; roving entertainment; a pop-up DJ; Paint N Chrome workshops;

and the ChromeFest Walk of Fame (a new area located in the Bayview Mall and Short St carpark).

Council Administrator Rik Hart said ChromeFest was one of the major events Council supported every year and generated significant economic and social benefit for the region.

“You can’t help but enjoy this nostalgic event with a walk down memory lane and soaking up the atmosphere at the outstanding cafes, restaurants and bars throughout The

Entrance over the ChromeFest weekend,” he said.

Car owners wishing to register their vehicle to be part of ChromeFest should visit chromefest.org for all information on eligibility and to register.

Community members and visitors can find out more information to plan their ChromeFest weekend by visiting chromefest.org.

FUN!

Source: Central Coast Council

Car owners should register their vehicles now

A range of vintage cars will be on show

2. Cancel (mission)

Shade plant

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

The life stories of the famers who call the Central Coast home have been highlighted in a special presentation, now available online following a launch at Mangrove Mountain hall on June 24.

When These Mountains Speak is an innovative series of pictures and stories highlighting the stories of seven farming families from diverse backgrounds.

They represent a range of cultures and generations.

Highlighting the region’s farmers

“The mountains and valleys have a strong and established tradition of farming that dates back across generations,” she said.

“It is wonderful these families have had their stories captured in photographs and I encourage the community to view these powerful images.

“There is an appetite in the community right now to learn more about farming.

“The Central Coast proudly welcomes people from diverse cultural backgrounds who choose to build a life here,” he said.

“At the two citizenship ceremonies already conducted this year, we’ve welcomed 600 new residents from countries including India, The Philippines, South Africa, Brazil, Iran and Egypt.

“This was clearly evident in the recent success of the Harvest Festival, so this exhibition is perfectly timed.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said community stories and exhibitions such as these enrich the culture of the Central Coast.

Council’s Director

To celebrate Refugee Week 2023, the community can go online to enjoy the images shot by local photographer Jeremy Hudson and accompanying stories by Adrienne Ferreiraat www.waysofseeing.au.

Spark Festival at Peninsula Theatre

The inaugural Spark Theatre Festival for 12-18 year olds will hold its first performance at The Peninsula Theatre, Woy Woy at 2pm on Sunday, July 2.

The performance will include two short plays as well as some improvisational theatre games.

Spark had its beginnings earlier this year, when longtime Woy Woy Little Theatre member Greg Buist introduced the program to open up the chance to learn and perform for younger people.

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

15 years.

He has had lead roles in a number of plays for Woy Woy Little Theatre (WWLT) including

Ben Hur, Four Flat Whites In Italy, Arsenic and Old Lace and Dial M For Murder and is currently in rehearsal for the

group’s next production – The Perfect Murder – to be presented in August.

Buist also has been in more

than a dozen musicals for Gosford Musical Society at Laycock St Community Theatre and was a member of the first

“While many of our new residents are migrants, some have a refugee background, and I am proud that Council is able to support excellent visual displays such as When These Mountains Speak to help their stories to be told.”

Source: Central Coast Council

committee which worked to create WWLT’s Flash Festival, which is now in its 10th year and will be presented this September.

Following an introductory session at Peninsula Theatre on April 30, the youngsters underwent a program of theatre games and rehearsal for performance pieces.

“(The program) will hopefully allow Woy Woy Little Theatre to cast shows we haven’t been able to do in the past as we see youngsters develop through Spark,” Buist said. There will be no charge for entry on July 2 and a kiosk will be open for tea, coffee and light refreshments.

Terry Collins

Entries open for busking competition

The Central Coast regional heat of the National Busking Championships will be held on Sunday, September 24, at The Entrance.

About 30 acts are expected to perform between 9am and 2pm and entries will be accepted until July 17.

Competitors will be stationed around Memorial Park and the Plaza and will perform a

succession of half-hour spots in different localities.

They will be judged by three judges, but also by a popular public vote.

To vote for their favourites to get through to the award concert, residents have the option to buy voting tokens during the competition phase. The concert will be held from 2.30pm to 4pm, during which time winners will be announced.

Anna shares love of fungi

Anna Durkin returns to address the Australian Plant Society Central Coast on July 8 with an address and slide presentation.

A society spokesperson said while Durkin worked as a bush regenerator, she discovered her love of fungi with all its

colourful, mysterious and intricate designs.

“She subsequently became a member of The Sydney Fungal Studies Group which consists of interested people of all ages and from all walks of life who aim to advance the study of mycology,” the spokesperson said.

“At our meeting, Anna will share her work as a citizen scientist in this field, educating us with her skill and knowledge and answering our questions about the fungal kingdom of the Sydney region.”

The meeting will be held at 2pm on Saturday, July 8 at Philip House, 21 Old Mount

Penang Rd, Kariong.

For more details go to https:// austplants.com.au/centralcoast-events

Source: Australian Plant Society Central Coast

The competition is associated with the Australian National Busking Championships.

Winners of each section will be eligible to compete in the national titles.

Last year’s winners, The James Brothers, went on to win the national championships.

Entry to the concert is free. Aimed at supporting local artists, it is organised by local Rotary Clubs.

Entry fees are $20 solo, $40 duos and $50 for groups of three to five.

All buskers will need to either have their own insurance, or a hold Central Coast Busking Licence.

For details email www. rotaryerina.org.au

Anna Durkin will give slide presentation to accompany her address

of Community and Recreation Melanie Smith said the photos provide a special insight into the farming way of life.

Clare and Paul Thornley of Fibre Arts Shed

Spark participants rehearse for the festival

The performance will include two short plays and theatre games

Source: Erina Rotary Club

Last year’s winners the James Brothers went on to win the national competition

Business & Property

Celebrity chefs try club fare

Celebrity chefs Matt Moran and Courtney Roulston were on the Central Coast on Monday, June 26, sampling some of the best club food available in the region.

As ambassadors for the 2023 Your Local Club Perfect Plate Awards, the two tried out the food at Gosford RSL, Central Coast Leagues Club, Diggers at The Entrance, Breakers Country Club and Ettalong Diggers. Members of the public are encouraged to visit any of the 130 participating NSW clubs, taste the Perfect Plate dish/es on offer, and give them a score

out of five by scanning each eatery’s unique QR code or filling out a simple paper form before July 9.

ClubsNSW Acting CEO Sallianne Faulkner said the Perfect Plate Awards were designed to showcase the incredible quality and diversity of food on offer in NSW clubs.

“Matt Moran and Courtney Roulston are Australian culinary icons and they both started their careers in clubs, so they are the perfect ambassadors for this competition,” she said.

“While diners can only vote for each Perfect Plate dish once, they are encouraged to

taste as many competition dishes at as many NSW clubs as possible to boost their chances of winning a prize.

“A $100 eftpos gift card will be given away every day of the competition and the two diners who vote for the most Perfect Plate dishes will win a ‘foodie getaway’ for two valued at over $3,000 each.”

The 13 clubs which receive the highest average score for their dishes based on patron ratings will be crowned the winner of their respective region.

There will also be three statewide winners announced

in the small, medium and large club categories.

Moran is a fourth-generation farmer and wants to see clubs utilise as much fresh, local produce as possible.

“Having started my career at what was then known as Parramatta RSL, I know there is a plethora of talent in club kitchens and Perfect Plate is a fantastic way for chefs to demonstrate their skills and really impress the public,” he said.

Roulston began her career at the “bowlo” in Putney, which she went on to manage for 11 years.

“Club food has come such a long way in the last 10 years or so — there are hatted chefs working in club kitchens and club restaurants that are consistently booked out every weekend,” she said.

“I think people are going to be blown away with the calibre of the dishes that clubs have entered in Perfect Plate this year.

“Clubs are the lifeblood of their communities.

“During floods and bushfires, it’s often the local club stepping up as an evacuation centre and looking after those in need.

“I’m looking forward to

offering my support to those clubs and I’m excited to see what their chefs produce.”

The Your Local Club Perfect Plate Awards are now in their third year, with a tofu dish taking out the top spot in the statewide large club category in 2022, challenging the notion of what many would consider a typical club meal.

To find out more about the Perfect Plate Awards, including details about participating eateries and competition dishes, visit perfectplate.com. au

Source: ClubsNSW

Celebrity chefs Matt Moran and Courtney Roulston

Changing of the guard at Delta Group

Richard Wrightson is the new Chief Executive of the Delta Group of companies including Delta Electricity and Delta Coal.

The Group encompasses Vales Point Power Station and Chain Valley and Mannering collieries, all on the southern shores of Lake Macquarie at Mannering Park.

Wrightson brings a wealth of experience to Delta, most recently as General Manager Strategy at Lochard Energy, and more than 30 years of operational and marketing expertise in the energy sector including his previous tenure as Executive General Manager of Wholesale Markets at AGL Energy.

He is a highly accomplished senior executive known for

driving significant growth in complex and dynamic environments.

“Joining Delta is an incredible opportunity, and I am honoured to lead an organisation which plays a critical part in delivering safe, reliable and competitive energy for NSW,” Wrightson said.

“I look forward to working

with the dedicated team at Delta and leveraging my experience to drive growth, provide stability, and capitalise on emerging opportunities in the transitioning energy market.”

A Delta spokesperson said they were confident that Wrightson’s extensive operational experience, coupled with his deep knowledge of wholesale markets and trading, would be invaluable in providing stability and maximising opportunities in the transitioning energy market.

“Wrightson is widely recognised and respected throughout the energy industry, government, regulators, and capital markets for his exceptional commercial and strategic insights, as well as his

ethical approach,” the spokesperson said.

He will take up the Chief Executive position from August 21 and in the meantime David Morris will serve as Interim Chief Executive.

Delta has expressed “heartfelt gratitude” to outgoing Chief Executive Greg Everett for his dedicated service to Delta and the broader energy industry during his impressive 13-year tenure.

“With a career spanning over 37 years, Greg has successfully navigated the transitioning energy market to ensure that Delta’s assets, such as Vales Point Power Station, continues to be a safe and reliable source of energy,”a Delta spokesperson said.

“Under Greg’s exceptional

leadership, Delta has emerged as a resilient and robust business, poised to provide essential services to the community for many years to come.

“He also played a pivotal role in the recent acquisition by Sev. en Global Investments.”

Everett said leading Delta had been an incredible journey and he was proud of the accomplishments he and the company had achieved together.

He said Wrightson’s appointment marked a new chapter for Delta.

“I’m thrilled he has joined the organisation and his proven leadership and expertise in the energy sector make him the ideal candidate to lead Delta into the future,” Everett said.

Bendigo Bank celebrates 25 years

Bendigo Bank, with branches at Ettalong Beach, East Gosford, Lisarow, Wyong and Kincumber, is celebrating 25 years of community owned and operated banking in Australia.

The internationally acclaimed model has grown from a concept designed to empower communities at risk of losing face-to-face banking services to a network of more than 300 branches nationally with $20B in loans and $31.3B in deposits.

Founded in 1998 with branches in Rupanyup and Minyip, the profit-with-apurpose model sees a majority of the profits generated by each independently owned and operated Community Bank directed back into the community.

Community Bank Ettalong Beach Chair Mick Gage thanked the bank’s customers for their support, its team members for

delivering quality service, local shareholders for backing their community and all the passionate locally-based directors for their hard work and dedication.

“We would like to congratulate Bendigo Bank and Community Bank Rupanyup and Minyip on their 25th anniversary,” he said.

“The important steps they took made it possible for communities like ours and many others to take charge of our future.

“In Ettalong Beach we were delighted to open our own Community Bank on April 5, 2005, building on the success of these early pioneer communities.

“Community Bank Ettalong Beach has returned $1.36M in sponsorships and grants to the community.

“These donations have supported initiatives such as PCYC, Umina Community

Group and local Surf Clubs.”

Collectively, the Community Bank model is on track to return a total of $300M in profits in its anniversary year since inception.

Community Bank funding often attracts co-investors such as local, state and federal

governments creating a multiplier effect on the capital raised which has enabled projects totalling more than an estimated $1B.

Bendigo Bank CEO and Managing Director Marnie Baker said the strength of the shared value model proved that Australians will support a

genuine alternative to the banking oligopoly if provided quality products and excellent, award winning service backed by a trusted financial institution.

“Bendigo Bank’s vision is to be Australia’s bank of choice and our purpose is to feed into the prosperity of our customers and their communities,” she said.

“The Community Bank model is aligned with both our vision and our purpose and we are immensely proud of its success.”

Community Bank National Council Chair Sarah Franklyn said the milestone was a ringing endorsement of the profit-with-purpose, social enterprise model.

“The internationally recognised Community Bank model has been embraced by more than 300 communities across Australia, where branches support economic growth and their grants and

NAB to close Gosford branch

Gosford’s National Australia Bank (NAB) branch is set to close its doors on August 31, the latest in a long list of bank closures on the region in recent years.

NAB Retail Customer Executive Jamie Apostolovski said over the past few years, fewer customers have been coming into branches to do their banking.

“Almost 60 per cent of our Gosford customers have only visited the branch once in the past 12 months, and more than 80 per cent are already using

other branches including our recently refurbished Erina branch,” he said.

“The Gosford team will be helping customers who need additional support with digital banking and also introducing them to the Bank@Post service around the corner on Erina St.

“It’s important to us that there will be no job losses as part of this change – our branch team will be provided new opportunities across NAB including additional support in the Erina branch.”

A NAB spokesperson said its renewed Bank@Post partnership with Australia Post provided the community with a face-to-face alternative at

Customers can conduct a range of banking services including cash deposits up to $9,999 per day, cheque deposits up to $999,999.99 per day and withdrawals up to $2,000 per day, as well as change/coin floats for business customers fee-free.

Under a 10-year agreement, both personal and business customers are able to access this service.

For business, small business and agribusiness customers, there will be no change to the relationship that they have with their existing bankers.

Customers in Gosford and

“I have full confidence in his ability to drive innovation and navigate the evolving energy landscape and I have no doubt that under Richard’s leadership, Delta will continue to thrive and provide essential energy services to the community while embracing the opportunities presented by the energy transition.”

Delta currently provides about 10 per cent of the electricity demand of NSW and says it is well-positioned for further growth as the energy transition progresses while remaining committed to delivering outstanding service, fostering innovation, and contributing to the energy sector’s progress.

Source: Delta Group

sponsorships underpin and strengthen the social fabric,” she said.

“As the custodians of one of Australia’s most successful social enterprise movements, we are pleased to celebrate the amazing outcomes achieved in the last 25 years and look forward to working together to evolve and adapt this unique model for the next generation.

“I especially want to thank our Community Bank directors, many of whom volunteer their time, for their hard work.

“The success of our Community Bank companies is a testament to their passion and commitment to the success of their local communities.”

Bendigo Bank and its community partners will mark the anniversary with celebrations at Community Banks around Australia.

Source: Bendigo Bank

surrounds will continue to be serviced by their agribusiness, business or small business banker, as they are today.

A bank spokesperson said more and more customers were choosing to do their banking online, over the phone or by video conference.

Full banking services will still be available at the recently refurbished Erina branch in Fountain Plaza, with a range of services also available at gosford Post Office in Erina St.

Terry Collins

Richard Wrightson

3,500 Australia Post outlets across the country.

The Gosford branch will close its doors on August 31

The Bendigo Bank branch at Ettalong Beach

When it's payday for income investors

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

For some sharemarket investors, dividends – regular payments from companies in which you are a part owner –are the main game.

Owning shares that pay dividends can be especially important for people, such as retirees, who don’t receive a regular income from work.

Dividends can help boost portfolio returns in good times and bad, says the investing advice company the Motley Fool.

“Cash payments aren’t subject to market whims like a share price is – meaning these payments can cushion the returns of a portfolio during a sharemarket correction or crash," it says.

So, how do you invest successfully in high-dividend stocks?

1 DO THE RESEARCH

Dividend yield is particularly relevant.

You work this out by dividing the previous 12 months of dividend payments by the current share price.

Many websites, including online brokers, give you this information.

The higher the yield, the better for income investors, but only up to a point, says the Motley Fool.

“Abnormally high yields can indicate heightened levels of risk,” it warns.

Australia’s four major banks have long been seen as a good source of sustainable dividends and at the time of writing had yields ranging from 4.2% to 6.4%.

The payout ratio is also relevant.

You work this out by dividing the dividend by the company’s earnings per share.

the better, with ratios above 100% worthy of additional research.”

The payout ratio can determine the sustainability of dividend payments, with lower ratios indicating more room for maintaining or growing dividends in future.

2 DIVERSIFY TO MINIMISE

THE RISK

income generation, says the business magazine Forbes

If your funds are limited, you could consider an exchange traded fund that invests in dividend-paying shares, such as Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (VHY), which gives you access to 72 companies.

KEY DATES FOR INVESTORS

• The ex-dividend date is the first trading day in which an upcoming dividend is not included in the share price.

If you buy the stock before that date, you get the dividend, but if you buy after you won’t.

• The record date is the day the company makes a list of all its shareholders to allocate dividend payments.

Even if you decide to reinvest those dividends into more shares through a dividend reinvestment plan (DRP), the ATO will still treat this reinvestment as if you’d received the payments in cash, so you still must pay tax on them.

When a company pays a dividend from profits, the government has already taxed them at the corporate rate –usually about 30%.

In Australia, shareholders receive this dividend payment with an acknowledgement of the tax already paid by the company.

This “franking credit” enables you to take the equivalent amount away from your taxable income as a deduction.

If you have no taxable income, you can receive these franking credits as a cash refund.

The payout ratio gives you an idea of how easily the company can afford its dividend, says the Motley Fool.

“The lower the payout ratio,

Dividends are decided by the board of a company, usually at annual general meetings.

Key dividend dates:

• The payment date is the day you will get your dividend (or shares in lieu).

Some companies with overseas interests will pay little, or no, tax in Australia, so these will pay “partially franked” or “unfranked” dividends.

If you spread your investments across different industries and sectors you create a well-rounded portfolio, which cuts risk.

This protects your investments and increases the potential for long-term, consistent

• The declaration date is when you find out how much you will receive in the next round of dividend payments.

Dreams of retirement come up against reality

Assess a company’s financial health and stability, considering factors such as dividend yield, growth history and payout ratio. Investment manager Vanguard has found interesting differences in what Australians believe is the ideal age to retire.

While the average ideal retirement age reported by respondents in its How Australia Retires survey was just over 61, it found workers aged between 18 and

34 hope to retire by 59.5, those aged 35 to 54 by 61.5 and those between 55 and 75 or older want to bow out by 64.9.

Superannuation tends to be the basis upon which we choose when to – or can afford to – comfortably retire.

With that in mind, the changes that treasurer Jim Chalmers

handed down in the federal budget will have an impact.

Aside from the concessional tax rate applied to balances above $3 million doubling from 15% to 30% from July 2025, the budget papers revealed the tax office would get a $40 million boost to help workers, particularly young and low-income

workers, reclaim underpaid or unpaid super.

The ATO estimates there was $3.4 billion of unpaid super in 2019-20 and the government says the initiative will improve the retirement outcome for around 8.9 million employees.

Then there was the announcement that employers

TAX TREATMENT

The tax office usually treats dividend payments as personal income on which tax is payable.

will be required to pay their employees’ super guarantee at the same time as their salary and wages rather than quarterly, as they do currently.

According to treasury, the switch would leave a 25-yearold median income earner about 1.5% – or $6000 – better off at retirement.

Which brings us back to age.

According to the Vanguard survey, perceptions of the

Many companies allow investors to set up a dividend reinvestment plan, enabling you to receive additional shares in lieu of a cash payment, which increases your shareholdings.

PAM WALKLEY

“ideal age” to retire did not vary significantly according to levels of affluence or gender.

One thing most working-age Australians have in common is that, when considering their circumstances, between 65 and 66 was seen as the realistic age at which to retire.

One thing that clearly changes as we age is the shift from idealism to realism.

HANNAH TATTERSALL

Central Coast Council is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for three community members to join the Chain Valley Colliery Community Advisory Panel.

The panel will help assess grant applications submitted within the Chain Valley Colliery Grant Program with applications being accepted until Friday, July 21.

Council is looking for community members who have a significant connection to the suburbs of Summerland Point, Gwandalan, Chain Valley Bay and Mannering Park to ensure a community voice is a part of the funding allocation process.

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie

Members sought for advisory panel

Smith said the panel was integral to ensure the community with a connection to these suburbs had a voice for the local community to be heard.

“Three community members will be appointed to the advisory panel and the new members will form part of the five-person assessment panel which will also include one representative from Delta Coal Pty Ltd and one Council staff member,” Smith said.

“The panel will separately assess and make recommendations on each grant application received and come together to review the applications based on their understanding of each project and its potential social, cultural, economic, and

environmental benefits.”

The Chain Valley Colliery Grant program was established in 2013 as a condition of consent for Delta Coal (formerly Lake Coal Pty Ltd) to extract coal.

The Voluntary Planning Agreement (CPA) requires $0.035 for each tonne of coal produced to be allocated to the grant program to develop community capacity within the suburbs of Summerland Point,

Gwandalan, Chain Valley Bay and Mannering Park.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the panel was one way to build community capacity and ensure decisions made for the community had

Ourimbah food hub close to fruition

Central Coast Council is set to finalise a business development lease with Central Coast Industry Connect for a Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub in Brownlee St, Ourimbah.

The maximum term of the business development lease will be 30 years inclusive of options.

Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC) has undertaken to employ a food manufacturing innovation and development officer to facilitate research and innovation in food manufacturing in the region.

The period allowed to transition to full market rent will be 20 years with Central Coast Industry Connect responsible for site outgoings on a pro-rata basis including but not limited to applicable waste, water and sewerage charges, rates and land tax (if applicable).

CCIC is a not-for-profit umbrella body for the manufacturing sector on the

Central Coast and has received government commitments of more than $17M to establish the Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub.

The facility will be a cooperative hub for food manufacturing research, innovation, promotion and education.

Council identified the Ourimbah site as being highly suitable for the Hub’s purposes.

The terms on which a lease will be offered over the site are outside the parameters of Council’s existing Leasing and Licensing Facilities Policy.

The development is in keeping with Council’s first Central Coast Economic Development Strategy for the region, adopted in September, 2020, a report to the June 27 meeting said.

“The strategy identifies that by 2040 the Central Coast will welcome nearly 88,000 additional residents and is targeting the creation of 72,000 new jobs,” the report said.

“Identified in that strategy are key sectors that the Central

Coast is strongly represented in, and emerging sectors that Council will support through its economic development activities.

“Food manufacturing is a key sector already operating on the Central Coast and is identified as a key growth sector.

“CCIC is a not-for-profit manufacturing sector umbrella body which maintains, grows and promotes manufacturing and other value-adding industries on the Central Coast and currently supports all of the

key growth sectors identified in Council’s adopted Economic Development Strategy.”

The report says establishment and operation of the Hub contributes to five of the strategy’s nine key deliverables.

“The Hub will be a purposebuilt facility designed to foster local business and promote the Central Coast as a nationally significant player in the food processing sector,” it says.

“It will incorporate a fully functioning and equipped pilot

influence from the community.

“Those interested in influencing funding allocation for community programs, activities and infrastructure in the suburbs identified are highly encouraged to put their hand up to be a member of the panel,” he said.

“It’s important we have a diverse range of voices and that can only happen if we have a diverse range of applicants.” Community members who are current residents or have a demonstrated community connection to the identified suburbs are invited to complete an Expression of Interest. For more information and to apply go online to: centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/EOI

Source: Central Coast Council

installation of pilot facilities.

The third stage will activate the pilot facilities for product development and contract manufacturing and extend its use to the skills centre.

The report says the economic impact of the project will be significant, with more than 200 direct jobs (and potentially 4,000 indirect jobs) being generated over time.

facility and skills development centre that drives industry collaboration and innovation and develops the skills of business owners, managers, employees and contractors.”

The Hub is expected to be operational by 2026 and will be developed in three stages.

The first stage will see the establishment of a skills centre and associated programs.

The second stage will see construction and fit out of a suitable building and

“The multiplier effect of businesses being nurtured and accelerated through the Hub are unknown at this stage but given that manufacturing is one of the largest employment sectors on the Central Coast the anticipated flow on employment benefits will be significant,” it says.

Ourimbah was identified as the preferred location because of its proximity to established food and beverage manufacturers and to the Central Coast campus of University of Newcastle.

Source: Central Coast Council meeting, Jun 27

Tenders for Niagara Park Stadium revamp too high

It’s back to square one for Central Coast Council in facilitating upgrades for the Niagara Park Stadium.

Council decided at its June 27 meeting to decline tenders for the work so far received and enter instead into private negotiations to reach a better price.

Work at the facility includes upgrades to the driveway, carpark, accessible ramp, building façade and amenities.

Niagara Park Stadium plays host to regional, state and

national sporting and community events.

It was built in 1999, and since that time, the accessible access leading from the stadium’s main car park has deteriorated.

Council received NSW Stronger Country Communities funding in November 2021 for the upgrade of the driveway, carpark, accessible ramp and building façade totalling $850,000.

Planned works will improve access to the facility for people with a disability through a new

pathway, carparking, wayfinding, lighting, covered access and further improvements internally to change rooms and amenities.

Between October 11 and November 8 Council sought community feedback on the concept plans for the accessibility improvements with 89 per cent of the community supporting the key features.

Council released an open tender on January 31, with eight contracting firms attending a mandatory

tender meeting.

The tender closed on March 21, with only two tenders received, both of which significantly exceeded the available budget and included items requiring further consideration and negotiation.

Council will now commence private negotiations with interested parties (whether or not they were a tenderer).

Source: Central Coast Council meeting, Jun 27

Summerland Point is one of the suburbs affected

The site of the proposed food hub

The two tenders received for improvement works at the stadium were too high

The Regional Library to be based in Donnison St, Gosford, is a step closer, with Central Coast Council finalising negotiations to accept a tender from North Construction and Building for an upper limit contract sum of $29.15M to undertake the works, with final commercial terms and contract sum yet to be determined.

A revised total budget of $32.7M includes $2.541M which has been spent to date.

Council has approved an increase of $5M to the capital budget to accommodate the proposed delivery program.

Council had previously declined all tenders and entered negotiations with North Construction & Building. A report to the Council meeting on June 27 said following an extensive negotiation process both parties are confident a contract will be able to be executed in the coming weeks.

“There are still some commercial terms to be determined and value management options agreed before a contract can be executed; however these

Regional library a step closer

outstanding items are considered minor and should not affect the upper limit contract value of $29,150,000,” the report said.

The library has been a long time coming, with a library levy introduced by the then Gosford Council as far back as 1996.

In 2015 Council engaged the State Library to assess five sites throughout Gosford for suitability.

For a time the library was to form part of a large cultural precinct between Mann and Donnison Sts, which was to also incorporate a performance centre and linking walkways.

In September, 2019, Council scrapped plans for the cultural precinct and resolved to pursue the development of the Gosford Regional Library as a separate project, first calling for tenders in December of that year.

A funding agreement for construction of the library was executed with the Federal Government in February, 2020, through the Community Development Grant Program, with the project to comprise a digitally enabled modern library with smart work hubs and meeting rooms.

Designs for the new regional library include a dedicated

library space, Council customer service centre, library administration, meeting rooms, flexible function spaces, maker/creator spaces and collaboration and innovation spaces for the community over four levels.

A construction budget was set and throughout the design development phase the design of the library was regularly benchmarked against this budget using quantity surveys undertaken by the design consultant’s sub-contracted quantity surveyor.

Approval to submit a Development Application was resolved by Council in February, 2021, with the report stating at that time that the design, including construction, demolition and fit out, were within the allocated budget for the project.

Subsequently, the design documentation was finalised, the DA was approved, and the tender process began.

The report said the budget for the project was initially developed in 2018, while various options associated

with the proposed Gosford Cultural Precinct were being considered and before a determination was made to proceed with a regional library on the Donnison St site.

The initial estimated cost of $27.7M developed in 2018 had been revised due to unprecedented market conditions that have led to increased construction costs and greater uncertainty by both contractors and clients in the market, it said.

“To further support the cause of these cost increases, the

Producer Price Indexes for Construction publicised by Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show a typical increase of 1 per cent to 2 per cent annually up until March 2021,” the report said.

“However, various external factors such as supply chain disruption and labour shortages have resulted in cost increases over the next 24 months closer to 10 per cent annually.”

The report said the current negotiated position with North Construction & Building was Council’s “best value option”. In accepting the staff recommendation to proceed, Administrator Rik Hart said although the latest pricing represented around an 18 per cent increase on the initial budget, prices were continuing to escalate.

“If we keep waiting, it won’t get built,” he said.

The meeting was told the lates cost estimate allowed for expected price rises over the coming year.

The library is set for completion by the end of next year.

Source: Central Coast Council meeting, Jun 27

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

Application for alternative school withdrawn

An application for a new alternative school for teenage school refusers on the Central Coast has been withdrawn following what the proponents say were unrealistic expectations by the NSW Education and Standards Authority (NESA).

Gab McIntosh, one of the lead teachers who worked on the application, said thousands of dollars had been spent on putting together a quality application with a team of six qualified and experienced teachers working on it for more than five months.

The new alternative school had been planned to open next year.

“It beggars belief that after

closing a school for school refusers on the Coast, Eagle Arts and Vocational College, and throwing our struggling teenagers onto the streets, the NSW Education and Standards Authority simply can stop its replacement with no regard to the views of the Central Coast Community,” McIntosh said.

“The Authority found

numerous problems with the new application despite strong support for the alternative school from the PCYC and lots of support from staff at Central Coast Council.”

McIntosh said highly experienced teachers, some of whom were from interstate, had worked hard on the application.

“I still receive phone calls from desperate parents who hope to place their son or daughter in an alternative school, which concentrates on getting the basics up to speed, with plenty of time for sport or the arts,” she said.

“Common sense suggests our local politicians should have a say in this, but they are excluded by NESA.”

McIntosh said the NESA’s

understanding of education is very limited.

“This became clear when NESA told our group’s representative that our very user-friendly curriculum must be dumped in favour of the same curriculum all teenagers must use in Years 9 and 10,” she said.

“How does that work when a good number of our rejected teenagers struggle to just read?

“We wanted to concentrate on getting their reading and writing up to scratch, but NESA thought that a silly idea.”

A NESA spokesperson stressed that the application for Aquilina Alternate School at Bateau Bay was voluntarily withdrawn by the applicant and not rejected by NESA.

“All new non-government schools seeking registration must demonstrate a capacity to comply with the registration requirements of the Education Act,” the spokesperson said.

“The aim of the requirements is to ensure all NSW students are safe and receive an education based on the NSW curriculum.

“NESA received an application for a proposed new school Aquilina Alternate School, Bateau Bay, and provided feedback on areas needing to be addressed by the applicant.

“The applicant withdrew the application voluntarily in writing on May 16.”

The spokesperson said an applicant must provide: written evidence that the proposed premises and buildings comply

with all legislation relevant at the time of occupation; written evidence that the proposed premises have approval to be used for their intended purpose; policies to assess and monitor the standard and state of repair of proposed premises and buildings, making reference to current building requirements; details of a fire safety statement of the proposed premises which demonstrates compliance with Part 9 Division 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 and policies and procedures to meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 in terms of the school’s buildings and premises.

St John the Baptist school celebrates 100 years

St John the Baptist (SJB)

Catholic Primary School at Woy Woy celebrated it’s 100-year anniversary, a huge milestone in the school community’s history, with a major celebration on June 22.

“We are filled with gratitude and pride after last week’s 100 Years’ Celebration and Mass lead by Bishop Anthony of the

Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay,” a school spokesperson said.

“Thank you to every single person who attended the event to mark this significant milestone for our brilliant school.

“Our deepest appreciation goes to the countless number of teachers, principals, nuns, staff, parishioners, parents, students and families that have

played a role in shaping the thriving school you see today.

“We know in our hearts, SJB will stand strong in the Woy Woy Peninsula community, well into the future.”

About 750 people (including students) attended the school’s centenary celebrations.

The day opened with a beautiful Acknowledgement of Country and Principal’s

Address, followed by a formal Mass Celebration, a band performance, memorabilia, photo displays, speeches in the school’s library and a catered lunch for all in attendance.

“Congratulations and well done on a great anniversary celebration SJB School,” parent and parish community member Jane Rutherford said.

“It was an honour to be a part of (the) celebrations.

“It sure brought back some memories for many of the teachers, principals, students and parents who have helped shape this strong school community over the past 100 years.”

St John the Baptist Church was first used as a school in 1922.

The school will continue celebrating it’s 100-year birthday with a fun day on the

Local students get Starstruck

Students from many Central Coast public schools recently performed at the regional music and dance extravaganza Starstruck in Newcastle.

Starstruck is an annual performing arts spectacular presented by Newcastle, Hunter and Central Coast schools as part of the NSW Department of Education’s commitment to the performing arts.

Like many schools across the Coast, Terrigal Public School has been a regular attendee, training, practising and building students up to perform each

year in June.

Terrigal teachers Courtney Barnett and Lisa Bolte took 32 students to Newcastle this year.

The teachers have been working with students on their respective performances for two terms in order to get things right over the two-day spectacular.

Both are great advocates for the Starstruck program and Bolte said they were proud of watching their students perform in front of a live audience.

“There were more than 3,500 students participating this year from schools across the Hunter

and Central Coast,” she said.

“There were dance acts, drama, band, a choir of more than 500 students who all put together an amazing showcase.”

Young Ashley Bagus Musdyantoko from Terrigal Public School was excited to be part of the weekend’s activities, which gave her a chance to see the performances of others in her age group and beyond.

Teacher Sarah Patterson from Lake Munmorah High School has been part of Starstruck since 2010.

“I used to conduct the choir and am now part of the vocal music team,” she said.

“(Starstruck) is an amazing opportunity for Hunter and Central Coast students to perform locally instead of having to go to Sydney for a mass production experience.

The two-day event of dance, drama and music was held over the June long weekend featuring students from Kindergarten to Year 12.

As one of the largest performance events presented in the greater region, it enjoys immense local support from the corporate and business sectors, the media and the community.

last day of school on June 29, where students have been invited to dress up as 100-yearolds for the occasion.

St John the Baptist Catholic Primary School is located at 21a Dulkara Rd, Woy Woy, and is enrolling now across all grades.

Source:

St John the Baptist Catholic Primary School

Terry Collins

Gab McIntosh

David Abrahams Teachers Courtney Barnett and Lisa Bolte with student Ashley Bagus Musdyantoko from Terrigal Public School at Starstruck

The day featured a formal Mass

Students were excited to get in on the fun

Health Minister drops by to discuss Voice to Parliament

Health Minister Mark Butler was on the Central Coast on Tuesday, June 27, to talk about the coming referendum on the Voice to Parliament and how it might affect health policy.

Accompanied by Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, he toured the Yerin Eleanor Duncan Service at Wyong.

Butler said the Central Coast had real challenges with the availability and the delivery of healthcare services.

“We can alleviate those challenges by, for example, allowing the entire region to recruit overseas trained doctors, a really important change that we made very soon after coming into government, a change that was strongly advocated by Gordon Reid,” he said.

“Also, policies that were the centrepiece of our Budget in

May to lift bulk billing rates (will help) because we know unfortunately, that the Central Coast, and the Hunter Valley for that matter, have some of the lowest bulk billing rates in the country.

“So tripling the bulk billing incentive, lifting the Medicare rebate by the highest amount in more than 30 years, all of these things are going to improve the availability and the affordability of healthcare services on the Central Coast.”

Butler said a Voice to Parliament would be especially important in the area of health.

“More than 30 years since the High Court first swept aside the legal fiction that this was somehow vacant land when Europeans arrived more than 200 years ago, recognition is long overdue in the country’s founding document,” he said.

“(This is a chance) to vote to give shape to that recognition

through a Voice to Parliament, to listen to allow the Parliament and members of the executive to listen to the voices of First Nations people about issues that particularly impact them.

“I can’t think of an area of policy where listening to those voices will be more important than in health.

“For far too many years, the Australian Parliament, Health Ministers of both political persuasions, and the community more broadly, have been confronted with frankly appalling statistics about the health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

“Indigenous Australians are seven times more likely to die of kidney failure than nonIndigenous Australians.

“The suicide rate among young First Nations people is twice that of young nonIndigenous people.

“And while we were able to get the rate of cancer deaths down over the past decade by 10 per cent across the country, cancer deaths rose by 12 per cent for Indigenous Australians.

“And with the best of intentions, substantial investment, terrific work by organisations like Yerin, still, we are not seeing the gap close at all.

“We have to be honest and say that the current approach just isn’t working.

“We can give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of our country longer, healthier and happier lives … and that means listening to First Nations people about ideas of prevention and early intervention that will be engaged by their communities.”

Butler said an audit was underway on the Closing the Gap initiative.

“A very clear commitment within that Plan was to ensure, as far as possible, that services for Indigenous Australians were delivered by Indigenous Australians,” he said.

“So that audit will allow us, as a government, to step through all of the services and where there’s an appropriate transition that can take place between a non-Indigenous service organisation to an Indigenous service organisation.”

Reid said the Voice would allow government to hear from Aboriginal communities about the laws and the issues affecting them.

“The team at Yerin do such fantastic work with Aboriginal communities here – the more than 17,000 people who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander here on the Central Coast,” he said.

“The work they do is

absolutely phenomenal in not just providing that frontline medical care, but also providing that preventative health, that social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing and support to make sure that people are cared for in a holistic manner.

“Speaking as a doctor, one of the most powerful things that people can do, whether it’s in the clinical setting or in the community setting, is listening.

“More often than not, you can find out what’s wrong with the patient and develop a preliminary diagnosis or provisional diagnosis through the patient history alone.

“And that’s what the Voice is all about: making sure we’re listening to community about the issues and the laws that will affect them and provide better outcomes.”

Terry Collins

Primary care award winners announced

Umina Podiatry has taken out the Patients First Award at the 2023 Primary Care Quality and Innovation Awards.

Presented in front of a full house on Friday, June 23, at Newcastle City Hall, the awards brought together a diverse range of primary care providers, professionals and practices from across the sector.

CEO of the Hunter New

England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (PHN), Richard Nankervis, said it was a great night celebrating the achievements of the worthy award recipients and finalists.

“The awards is the flagship annual event for the PHN and a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together to showcase the quality services and innovative practices happening every day across

our network,” he said.

“It’s an important celebration of the role of primary care providers and thank them for the value they add to the people living in the Hunter, New England and Central Coast regions.”

The Glen for Women was a joint winner in the First Nations Health Award category.

Other category winners were:

First Nations Health Award joint

winners, Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service; Technology in Health Award, Uniting NSW ACT – Telehealth4kids; Primary Care Innovation Award, EngAGE; Primary Care Leader Award – Organisation (joint winners) Parents Beyond Breakup and Raymond Terrace Respiratory Clinic.

Source: Primary Health Network

Funding extended for specialist children’s worker

A specialist worker for children and young people working on the Central Coast is one of 20 in NSW to be guaranteed employment for the next 12 months.

Following a Greens motion unanimously passed in the NSW Parliament Upper House last week, the NSW Government has confirmed it will extend funding for the 20,

who work in priority domestic violence refuges.

With current funding set to expire on June 30, The Greens spokesperson for Gendered Violence and Abuse – Central Coast’s MLC Abigail Boyd –called on the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault to urgently grant continued funding for the positions.

The move came after peak body Domestic Violence NSW

wrote to the Minister on June 1 seeking an urgent extension of funding to continue the employment of the important specialist workers, previously funded as a pilot program under the National Partnership Agreement.

Boyd said the pilot program had been hugely successful in supporting children and young people who had experienced domestic violence and the funding extension would allow

a formal pilot evaluation to occur.

Domestic Violence NSW has welcomed the announcement.

Boyd said women and children fleeing domestic violence needed vital services with secure long-term funding.

“The continuation of funding for these crucial workers is a heartening sign that the new Labor Government will finally take the epidemic of gendered

violence seriously,” she said.

“These specialist workers are so important because they support child victims of domestic violence as clients in their own right.

“These 20 workers losing their jobs would have meant thousands of young people not getting the support they need and deserve.”

Health Minister Mark Butler and Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at Yerin Health Minister Mark Butler and Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with staff members at Yerin

Source: The Greens MP Abigail Boyd Greens MP Abigail Boyd

Dwight Bilson of Umina Podiatry accepts the award

DOWN IN THE GARDEN: Citrus Growing at Home

WITH CHERALYN DARCEY

Everyone has room for citrus these days will a vast array of offerings to suit all garden sizes available from our local nurseries.

Select a tree that you know you will use and that will be compatible with your area and environment.

Grafted varieties will generally be hardier as they are clones of desirable plants that are grown upon strong, disease resistant rootstock that is suitable for your area. There are a large variety of sizes so make sure that your intended spot can accommodate the growth.

While you can grow a tree from a seed, they probably won’t grow true to the type of the fruit they came from and though you may be pleasantly surprised, you will probably end up with sometime inedible.

As it will take about seven years until you see the fruit, you will be better off having faith in a grafted tree of the type you are after.

A few of my juicy selections for Central Coast/temperate regions include Lemon: Eureka, Orange: Valencia, Lime: Makrut, Grapefruit:

Ruby Red Grapefruit, Mandarin: Imperial, Cumquat: Nagami.

Australian Native: Finger Lime (any they are all wonderful!) Something

Unusual: Buddha’s Hand

How to Grow a Citrus Tree

Citrus will require at least six hours of full sun every day.

The soil needs to be deep, rich and loamy, with free draining qualities being an absolute must.

It won’t want other plants, or a lawn, sharing its space at all and a sheltered spot is best as they don’t fare well in strong winds.

Planting time is early spring but planning time is right now, in the middle of winter, because a well-prepared bed will mean a happy, healthy long-lived tree.

Chose you spot and dig in.

If your soil is heavy, add compost and lots of it and some sand can help as well.

Dig your hole right out to three metres wide and as deep as you can manage.

Enrich the soil now with a little well-rotted manure if you feel your soil is depleted as fertilising during planting will burn the sensitive root

structure of citrus.

The preferred pH level for citrus is 6 - 7.5 and so you may need to toss in a little lime to bring up the level. When it is time to plant, ensure you mound up earth in the planting hole and spread roots out over it before filling. Water in well and mulch the surrounding area with an organic material and leave at least 12cm away from the trunk.

Citrus Care Citrus are hungry garden buddies, so you need to feed them well.

To leave no doubt there are specialised citrus fertilisers that are brilliant and take the guess work out of things for beginners.

The usual pattern for feeding is mid-winter, late spring and late summer.

Watering is essential once a week for newly planted trees and then only once every couple of weeks except if the weather is very hot.

Container grown plants will naturally need additional watering and just remember that they detest soggy feet.

Pruning may seem a bit daunting but in all honestly,

GARDENING PLANNER

it’s relatively easy with most citrus.

Just trim back after harvest should you wish to shape your tree and remove dead branches and any that may be diseased but never cut away more than 20% of your tree canopy.

You should be able to reach the trunk of the tree without being too obstructed by branches so keep the centre clear.

When it comes to harvest, leave fruit on the tree until they have fully developed to ensure best flavour.

What’s Wrong with my Citrus?

Holes in my Tree: Probably Tree Borers and they can be removed by digging out with a skewer and a pyrethrumbased spray can knock them down as well.

Wiggly Lines on Leaves: The Leaf Miner is usually the culprit and can be controlled with an organic pest oil.

8

Sooty Mould & Honeydew:

The sticky dew is created by insects, and it can lead to the sooty mould fungus issue. It can be controlled by washing the plant with a horticultural soap and then treating the tree with an organic insecticide.

Healthy Leaf Drop: This happens in most cases due to lack of water but can also indicate a health issue with the tree so give it a close examination.

Yellow Leaves: These will usually also drop and indicate too much water and poor drainage. Reduce watering and the tree should return to good health.

Stink Bug Infestation: This is a big one, and dreaded, as the fruit is punctured and drops off and tree slowly dies.

If they are known in your area, my advice is to get a jump on them by spraying your trees completely in early

spring with an organic horticultural oil but if they are already there then you will need program of organic insecticide as per the manufacture’s recommendations.

No Room Citrus Tips

Why don’t you try growing citrus in pots?

This is also brilliant for those who are renting as you can simply take your ‘movable orchard’ with you and there are lots of dwarf citrus available.

You will need as deep a pot as possible and repot every two years.

An old but clever way to grow citrus in limited space to train it to grow up a wall. Espalier style, as it is called, needs careful planning and constant maintenance, but if you have the time, it’s an easy way to make use of tight spaces and provide a stunning backdrop in a courtyard or garden.

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT & NATURE LOVERS

Long Jetty Produce Swap

138 Robina Town Centre Drive Robina Qld 4226 PO Box 3275 Robina Town Centre Qld 4230 Tel: 1300 36 0867 Fax: 1300 81 8962 email: artwork@localdirectories.com.au www.localdirectories.com.au

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

10 – 11am, Saturday 1st July, Bateau Bay Community Garden

Share excess (chemical free) edible produce and creations from your garden. Come together with minded locals and make some new friends. It’s an opportunity to share produce, knowledge, and skills locally - find out what grows best here. Make sure your garden produce does not go to waste. Find plants and produce that you won’t find in the shops. Feel free to drop in and have a chat to see what it is about. Haven’t got a garden? We usually have some cuttings/seeds/plants on offer or why not bake something and bring it along.

& LAWYERS

Christmas in July Workshop - Burbank at Saddles, Mt. White, 1pm, Sunday 2nd July Get into the festive spirit with our exciting and creative Kids Christmas Terracotta Pot Workshop! Let your little ones unleash their artistic talents and create beautiful, personalized Christmas decorations that will add a special touch to your holiday celebrations. All materials provided. Bookings a must phone 4370 1010

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business

• Retirement Villages

• AVO Matters

• Drink Driving

Cheralyn is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’

- 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3

Linda Emery Lawyer Since 1983 Hospital & Home Visits

Central Coast surfing sensation Molly Picklum has joined leading portable power and wireless charging solutions brand mophie as its Australian ambassador.

As the world number four professional surfer on the World Surf League’s (WSL) Women’s Championship Tour, Picklum brings a powerful presence to mophie, drawing synergies between her supercharged surfing career and the innovative products offered by the brand. Having secured a championship tour event win at the 2023 Hurley Pro Sunset Beach, Picklum is aiming to finish within the top five and

Picklum stays switched on with mophie

contend for her maiden world title at the Rip Curl WSL Finals in California this September.

She also hopes to represent Australia in the 2024 Olympic Games held in Tahiti.

“I’m stoked to join the mophie team and help lead the brand’s charge back into surf and action sports in Australia,” Picklum said.

“The products are amazing.

“I spend so much time on the road and the portable powerbanks and travel chargers add a lot of practical value to my lifestyle.

“They are also perfect for when I’m home and taking time out in-between events.”

Brad Bricknell, mophie’s ANZ Marketing Manager, said

aligning with an “exceptional young talent like Molly” was a tremendous honour.

“She represents a new

generation of extraordinary athletes challenging the existing establishment with humility, innovation and

unwavering professionalism both in and out of the water,” he said.

“It’s a rare combination for someone her age and mophie is privileged to be a part of Molly’s journey.”

Bricknell highlighted mophie’s prior involvement with professional surfing, action sports and athletes, making it a natural fit for the brand to re-engage with these authentic roots.

“mophie products seamlessly integrate into the surf and action sports realm, presenting an excellent opportunity for the brand to reignite its connection with this community,” he said.

As Picklum embarks on an extensive leg of the WSL

Silver for Australia in Oceania boxing titles

Samuel Whitehead of Woongarrah has won a silver medal for Australia in the 2023 Oceania Boxing Confederation Junior and Youth Oceania Boxing Championships held in Samoa.

After a close three rounds the bout went to review before the decision was given to the boxer from New Zealand in a

very close split decision.

“It wasn’t the result I wanted but it’s only the beginning and a silver medal at my first international campaign is a great start to my international career,” Whitehead said.

The 18-year-old has been boxing for just over four years and has been part of the NSW Futures program for the past three years.

Whitehead started his training at Central Coast Boxing gym in Budgewoi under Steve and Bailey Mannix who later introduced the team to a well-known local coach Dean Robinson.

Team Robinson trains out of Accolade Boxing Gym in Morisset with continued success and Whitehead is the third young boxer under

Coach Robbo to make the Australian team and compete at an international level this year.

Whitehead will go to South Australia next month as part of the NSW team and hopes to improve on the silver medal he won last year in his 63.5kg weight division at the Australian Titles.

“My amazing sponsors make it easy for me to travel the country and world to chase my goals and dreams,” he said.

“To my amazing family and coach Robbo, I am forever grateful for your support and encouragement”.

Championship Tour spanning California, El Salvador, Brazil, South Africa, and back to California, she will carry mophie devices in her backpack.

Among her favourites are the Snap+ Wireless Powerstation, Powerstation XL and the mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger. mophie is a leading manufacturer of portable power banks and wireless mobile chargers.

Portable power solutions from mophie are recognised for style and are engineered for performance, providing a seamless integration of hardware, software and design.

Source: mophie

Sue Murray

Samuel Whitehead with his silver medal in the Oceania boxing titles.

Molly Picklum

Avoca Beach tops competition ladder

RUGBY

A resounding victory over The Lakes on June 24 has seen Avoca Beach rise to the top of the rugby union points table as the season enters its second half and the race to the finals begins.

The Round 10 game saw Avoca Beach trounce the visitors 57-19 at their home field, Heazlett Park.

Avoca Beach took the early lead, scoring 17 points before The Lakes were able to respond with their first points in the match.

The Lakes managed to score two tries, but Avoca Beach went into the half-time break with a handy 24-12 lead.

The second half saw Avoca Beach post a further 33 points and although The Lakes crossed for a lone converted try in the second half, they were unable to make any inroads on the home team.

Best players for Avoca Beach were prop Matt Ritchie, winger Mitchell Briggs, lock Lachlan Sooialo and flanker Matt Anderson.

The Lakes were best served by prop Luke Clarkson, hooker Brandon Church and centre Ashton Hutchinson-Walters.

The respective five-eights, Sione Vaenuku (The Lakes) and Sam Evans (Avoca Beach) each crossed for three tries apiece.

Avoca Beach maintains its unbeaten record after 10 rounds.

The match of the day at

Gosford Showground between Gosford and Hornsby proved to be a nail-biter from start to finish.

Gosford won the match 2517 but the contest was an arm wrestle for the entire 80 minutes.

The opening minutes saw play move from one end of the field to the other, with several try scoring chances going by the board.

It was Hornsby who opened the scoring with a converted try in the 18th minute.

Gosford was quick to respond with its own converted try to level the scores at seven-all before kicking a long-range

penalty goal to take the lead by 10-7 going into half-time.

The second half continued in much the same vein, with Hornsby levelling the scores at 10-all early in the second stanza.

Gosford broke the deadlock with two quick successive tries to lead by 20-10, with both teams crossing for tries in latter stages of the match but Gosford hanging on for the victory.

Best players for Gosford were halfback Ben Shelley, winger Josh Parish and hooker Joel Wagner.

Hornsby had several good efforts from prop Russell Yates,

halfback Ben Astley, lock Dominic Cole, fullback Jack O’Connor and flanker Harrison Vollmost.

The win sees Gosford cement its spot in fourth position on the competition ladder.

Woy Woy travelled to Ourimbah Rugby Park to meet the Razorbacks, only to be trounced 120-0 by the home team.

The Razorbacks controlled everything from start to finish, posting points regularly and quickly throughout the match.

After leading 52-0 at halftime, they posted a further 68 points in the second half.

Woy Woy had no answer to

the Razorback onslaught.

Best players for the Razorbacks were No.8 Lachlan Peruch,hooker Jade Strongman and centre Owen Turner.

Flanker Rob Peden crossed for five tries for the home side.

Best for Woy Woy were centre Jarrod Olive, winger Max Stride and centre Ulysses Fotofili.

Warnervale met Lake Macquarie at Woongarrah Sports Field with Warnervale recording a 50-15 victory.

Warnervale got away to a great start, piling on points in the first half and going into the break with a 38-0 lead.

In the second half Lake Macquarie out-scored

Warnervale by 15-12, but couldn’t snatch a victory.

Best players for Warnervale were five-eight Isaiah Niumata, centre Sevanaia Nabetelevu and prop Taniala Tangulu.

Lake Macquarie was best served by halfback Matias Furno, five-eight Brendan Holiday and No.8 Vilikesa Ralagakali.

The Premier 1 points table sees Avoca Beach in the lead on 39, ahead of the Razorbacks on 36 and Terrigal on 35.

Gosford is on 29, Warnervale 26, Hornsby 14, The Lakes 12 and Woy Woy on seven.

The Women’s 10s competition saw The Lakes, Terrigal and the Razorbacks all record important victories.

In Round 11 on July 1, the match of the day will see Terrigal take on the Razorbacks at The Haven Oval.

The Lakes will host Hornsby at Slade Park, Woy Woy and Gosford will clash at Woy Woy Oval and Avoca Beach will travel to Boolaroo to meet home team Lake Macquarie.

In the President’s Cup, Terrigal will meet the Razorbacks at The Haven and Gosford/ Kariong and Warnervale will clash at Woy Woy Oval.

In the Womens 10s comp, the Razorbacks will travel to The Haven Oval to meet Terrigal, Avoca Beach and Warnervale will battle it out at Walters Park and The Lakes will take on Hornsby at Slade Park.

Avoca Beach had a resounding victory over The Lakes

Basketball challenge for Crusaders

BASKETBALL

Hopes for post-season play are all but gone for the Central Coast Crusaders men’s squad, but a new challenge has presented itself as relegation looms. The addition of two new teams into this year’s basketball competition saw a modification to the relegation rule and instead of one, the bottom two teams move back down to the Waratah State league.

The men’s squad sits tied

with Penrith for the second-last spot on the ladder and with only five games left in the season, time is running out.

The situation for the women is a lot less dire but still far from ideal as they failed to gain any momentum after the impossible feat of defeating the ManlyWarringah Sea Eagles a few weeks ago.

The women sit in 11th place, just three wins shy of the 8th seed and a spot in the playoffs, making winning the last string of games critical.

The Crusaders travel to Castle Hill to take on the Hornets this Saturday, July 1.

The men face their own impossible feat, not having defeated the Hornets in Castle Hill since 2019, while the women should have an easy victory on the road against a second-last placed Hornets side.

Coming off a double header on the road that produced two heartbreaking final moment losses last weekend the Crusaders found themselves

on the wrong end of a buzzer beater going down 81-82 to rivals Maitland on Saturday, June 24, followed by a missed go-ahead attempt going down 85-83 to the Comets on Sunday, June 25.

The last time the women’s squads faced off; the Crusaders put in an emphatic performance dominating the Hornets 76-61 at home on the back of a 29-16 double-double from Sara Matthews.

The Crusaders will have to make do this Saturday without

Matthews as it looks like her season is over due to an ACL tear, but ball movement and tight defence remain the aims of the game.

The Crusaders forced 19 turnovers in their last matchup and tacked on 20 assists and, with mid-season addition Rachel Maenpaa facilitating, the Crusaders shouldn’t miss a beat.

The men’s squad will have to dig deep, especially with last weekend’s crushing losses.

Coach Noman Shoaib will

have to find alternate methods of getting the team involved as Luke Cassidy and Ajay Lawton’s heroic efforts are just not enough to get the team over the line week in week out.

It’s possible that the Crusaders’ hole will become deeper after this weekend as their second-last placed counterpart Penrith have what should be an easy game at home against the Hawks.

Stefan Kataric

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

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

The women’s team in action on June 25 | Photo: Aaron Camua

The theme is to educate people about the options and choices available to them… alerting you to the pitfalls and procedures in dealing with Estate Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney & Appointments of Guardian and how you should best deal with them.

Brazel, Solicitor, will present the seminar on Wills, Powers of Attorney & Appointments of Guardian to help you through the maze of legal regulation.

2023 Brazel Moore Seminar Series, this free public seminar is being given by Brazel Moore Lawyers to help people understand what to expect so they know where they stand

Ajay Lawton on court on June 24 | Photo: Floyd Mallon