Coast Community News 401

News

No free parking for Gosford Hospital

The State Opposition has blasted the NSW Government over an announcement this week that while free parking was introduced at the state’s regional and rural public hospitals on August 1, it will not apply at Gosford Hospital.

The issue of parking costs at public hospitals was a major pre-election issue in March, with both major parties pledging to make it free at regional hospitals.

But Minister for the Central Coast David Harris advised CCN on July 31 that Gosford, along with John Hunter and Wollongong Hospitals, would not be included in the roll-out of free parking.

Bridgette Weekes is a regular visitor to the hospital

He said while the Labor Government made a commitment to extend free parking to staff, patients and visitors in regional and rural hospitals, Gosford, John Hunter and Wollongong Hospitals are principal referral

hospitals located in major centres.

“As such (they) are not covered by the recent announcement by the Minister for Health in relation to free parking,” he said.

“Gosford Hospital is close to public transport and the CBD, providing alternate access to the hospital, something that is not as readily available in the rural and regional areas of Tweed, Coffs Harbour, Maitland, Belmont and Shoalhaven.

“The removal of paid parking at Gosford would risk creating capacity issues, making it harder for patients to access the healthcare they need.”

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, who just last week renewed calls for free parking at Gosford Hospital, said the announcement was “yet another broken promise to the people of the Central Coast”.

Continued page 11

Fury over logging in Ourimbah State Forest

Out&About

Can you solve The Perfect Murder?

See page 13

Business

Be a part of next year’s Harvest Festival

See page 19

Sport

Waving Coast flag at Commonwealth Youth Games

See page 31

Puzzles page 16

STARR * JADE HURLEY * LITTLE PATTIE * DIGGER REVELL * DINAH LEE Pioneers

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All contributions should be emailed to: editorial@central coastnews.net

New publishing arrangements

Changes are upon us here at Central Coast Newspapers.

From this edition, a new local publishing company, Combined Coast News, takes over the reins from former publisher Ross Barry, who financed a restructure and took over the operations from founding publisher Cec Bucello five years ago.

The trading names CCN, Central Coast Newspapers and Coast Community News will remain the same.

The newspaper is not printed for nostalgia but for the important role it plays in informing locals and building trust in the community.

Most importantly we offer an excellent trusted advertising medium for local businesses, governments, agencies and organisations wishing to connect with the curious and resourceful people who favour newspapers over purely digital information channels.

with CoastFM 96.3 and Radio50+ recently.

Tens of thousands of listeners now hear a wide variety of great local news stories every weekday morning.

For the digitally enhanced, we offer a variety of platforms from which to receive news and information.

Be sure to sign up for the editor’s newsletter here: coastcommunitynews.com. au/editors-newsletter/

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

Managing & Digital Editor: David Abrahams

Print Editor & Senior Journalist: Terry Collins

Journalists: Sue Murray, Denice Barnes

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Contributors: Cheralyn Darcey, Stefan Kataric

Email to: editorial@centralcoastnews.net

Publisher - Combined Coast News

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

The new publishing entity is headed up by yours truly, David Abrahams, as Manager and Digital Editor.

Rest assured I am very committed to local independent news journalism and publishing.

We will retain our journalists and staff with a few minimal changes.

Indeed we welcome Denice Barnes, long-time local journalist, on board to assist Print Editor and senior journalist Terry Collins and journalist Sue Murray along with a handful of freelancers and correspondents.

CCN is still committed to maintaining the print edition of Coast Community News despite massive paper cost

increases recently, something that has sent many regional newspapers to the wall over the last few years.

Coast Community News will maintain its prime role as the region’s only remaining weekly newspaper with over 60,000 readers every week

In an era dominated by 24hour news cycles and social media feeds, local newspapers often find themselves overshadowed by sensational headlines and global events. However, the true value of local journalism is at the heart of our newspaper and cannot be underestimated, as we serve as the heartbeat of communities, an essential pillar of democracy and a watchdog holding those in power accountable.

As a locally-based organisation, we will be advocating and reaching out to the community more in the coming months.

The aim is to build an even better news service and secure a strong and sustainable business model.

Keep an eye out for ways to contribute and engage with us in future editions.

Of course, we won’t stop expanding our reach through other digital, social and broadcast mediums.

Our website remains one of the top regional news sites in the nation with over two million Google search results a month and over 100,000 loyal monthly readers.

Some may have heard of our successful new partnerships

If you love news on your mobile phone find us on your Google News and Apple News apps for fresh stories every day.

Subscribe, if you wish, to any one of our six social media channels for selected stories during the week, see details on this page.

On behalf of the team at CCN I would like to say we look forward to working with our readers in navigating the changing news landscape and thriving with them into the future.

David Abrahams Manager and Digital Editor

Tuggerah Tuffs get behind Guide Dogs support group

The Tuggerah Tuffs celebrated the 40th birthday of the Guide Dogs Central Coast Volunteer Support Group by handing over a cheque for $3,000.

The Central Coast support group was formed in 1983 at an afternoon tea organised by the Guide Dog’s head office at the Long Jetty RSL Club.

Over the ensuing years volunteers have been active in fundraising in the surrounding areas from The Entrance to the Peninsula.

The group continues to be visual and out and about in the community managing a number of fundraising stalls a year at shopping centres across the Central Coast.

READERS

Members are freely available to share their experiences with visitors and discuss how Guide Dogs provide free services to help people with impaired vision.

The Tuggerah Tuffs Winter Swimming Club competes at The Entrance Ocean Baths every Sunday from May to September and has more than 80 members ranging in age from 8 to 90.

The club was formed by members of the local surf clubs

and became officially affiliated with the NSW Winter Swimming Association on May 25,1967.

“Tuggerah Tuffs have been supporting Guide Dogs for many years and this year’s donation of $3,000 brings the total contribution to close to $70,000,” Patron Emma McBride said.

Angela Allen and her guide dog Piper accepted the cheque on Sunday, July 23, at The Entrance pool, prior to the Tuggerah Tuffs members entering the very chilli water for their morning swim.

She expressed gratitude to the Guide Dogs Central Coast Support Groups’ continued support and said she hoped it would continue for many more years to come.

Tuggerah Tuffs raise money by “dobbing in” their mates who have to add money to a “swear jar” for misdemeanours throughout the year.

Source: Guide Dogs Central Coast Volunteer Support Group

David Abrahams

Volunteer Group President Merran Rudder, Tuggerah Tuffs Patron Emma McBride and Angela Allen with Piper

Members of the community group Camp Ourimbah are calling for an end to logging in Ourimbah State Forest.

They gathered outside the office of Member for Wyong and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris on July 26 to voice their concerns.

Forestry Corporation NSW began logging the forest on July 12, triggering a groundswell of opposition from locals, amid fears for the area’s koala population.

“Currently Forestry Corporation is logging 350 acres of bushland,” a spokesperson said.

“Their entire plan encompasses an area of over 2000 acres.

“As our State member, David Harris could table a motion to

Fury over logging in Ourimbah State Forest

fires, koalas and other animals moved east to escape the inferno, and now live in the forest, seeking refuge in this sanctuary,” she said.

“We do not know how old Forestry Corporation’s surveys are, but certainly koalas would have migrated into unburnt forest such as Ourimbah after the fires.”

Group members say the forest also acts as a fire break, with its rainforest protecting a population of close to half a million people on the Central Coast.

“Logging will cause the forest to dry up and will remove this barrier,” a spokesperson said.

“Additionally, there is very little usable timber in (the forest) and it is mainly being used for pulp.

“They are killing our forests for pulp and we are paying for it.

“This is because as taxpayers we are subsidising this corporation to the tune of about $20M per year.

“Environment Minister Penny Sharpe refuses to impose a moratorium on logging operations in spite of the fact that targeted compartments in 20 state forests with koala hubs are destined to be harvested; a moratorium could be declared overnight.”

The spokesperson said failure to protect koala habitat was a

backflip on a pre-election promise from the State Government.

“To think this species could well disappear in my lifetime, facilitated by people who promised us otherwise, is both a tragedy and a disgrace,” the spokesperson said.

Resident Catrina Sturmberg

said piles of logs left behind create a “catastrophic fire risk”.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said Forestry Corporation of NSW has been appointed to manage State forests for a range of values including protection of cultural heritage, environmental conservation, tourism, and

After hours medical service set to close

profit service has been dependent on government funding, a dependency that has become greater and greater as the Medicare rebate has fallen further and further behind the cost of providing the service.”

Duff said he had been economising and cutting back to run the leanest service possible.

“We have been lucky to have had the support of one particularly dedicated volunteer, without whom we would have been lost,” he said.

“Even so, a reduction in our funding a couple of years ago has meant the service has been going backwards, only surviving by eating into contingency savings built up over many years.

“We have been telling the people who hold the purse strings for at least the last 12

Dr Paul Duff says the centre is no longer sustainable

months that the current situation is unsustainable.

“My understanding is that the funding being offered is not increasing at all and with the skyrocketing costs of insurances, software licences and wages we have no chance of making ends meet.”

Duff said he understood

PUBLIC NOTICE

Would any person or firm with knowledge of any will or document purporting to embody the testamentary intentions of PETER CHRISTOPHER HENRICKSON late of Wyong who died on 8 May 2023 please contact:

Adriana E. Navarro of Navarro & Associates Suite 502, Level 5, 105 Pitt St Sydney NSW 2000 Tel: 02 9166 2934

Email: navarroassociates@bigpond.com.

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negotiations between the services fund holder, Coast and Country Primary Care, and the Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (which distributes funds on behalfoftheFederalGovernment), have come to a standstill.

“It’s not just us caught up in this,” he said.

“The Bridges After Hours Services at Erina and Kanwal are in the same position we are.

“Unless extra funding can be found I can see no future for any of us.”

The Woy Woy After Hours Medical Service was established in 1972 when Woy Woy Hospital first opened.

It is a cooperative of local GPs who take turns to staff evening and weekend clinics and be on call overnight.

In a general practice landscape where bulk billing is becoming less common, the service almost universally continues to bulk bill.

“We don’t pretend to provide the continuity of care you would get from your usual GP,” Duff said.

“As a cooperative we don’t want to compete with GPs in the area and don’t try to offer

The NSW Government is currently seeking expressions of interest from people with diverse interests in maritime matters across NSW for appointment to the Maritime Advisory Council. Members of the Council provide advice on maritime legislation, commercial and recreational boating, safety, access, environment and sustainability, as well as the expenditure priorities for maritime infrastructure and research.

The Council is a diverse and inclusive advisory space, so if you’re female, a First Nations person, a young waterway user, a person with a disability or an older boater, we strongly encourage you to apply.

Applications are to be submitted to the Centre for Maritime Safety via email at maritime@transport.nsw.gov.au by 13 August 2023.

Please include a resume and cover letter detailing the reasons for your interest in the role and relevant experience.

For more information please visit: transport.nsw.gov.au/maritime-advisory-council SB0955

renewable timber production.

“Ourimbah State Forest has one of the oldest histories of routine timber harvesting in Australia and is a regrowth forest that has been harvested sustainably and regrown for over 150 years,” he said.

“Operations in native forests are always selective, with many trees set aside and the harvested area is regrown after every operation.

“Forestry Corporation must comply with detailed rules that are in place to protect koalas and other wildlife and their habitat and operations are independently audited by the Environment Protection Authority.”

Further information is available on the Forestry Corporation website at www. forestrycorporation.com.au/ operations/about-ourharvesting-operations/ ourimbah-harvesting-andregenerating

Terry Collins

many of the services that they do, like specialist referrals, pathology or x-ray requests or long term prescriptions.

“The vital service that we do offer is to ensure that the people of the Woy Woy peninsula can be looked after when they can’t see their usual GP without having to resort to a long drive and extended wait at Gosford Hospital Accident and Emergency.

“I think we will be missed.”

If the funding of the service cannot be secured in the next couple of weeks the service expects to see its last patient on Thursday, August 31.

Source: Woy Woy After Hours Medical Service

IN MEMORIAM

MALTESE, Josephine Faith ‘Josie’

Loved Wife of John (dec.). Loving Mum of Antonia, Fran, Patricia & Maria.

‘Fulfilling her wishes to the very end.’

Harris

HR_FRH0020_HP_[260x186]_Newsprint.pdf

Members of Camp Ourimbah rallied on July 26

Call for permanent fix to Waratah St

Residents of Waratah St, Bateau Bay, are calling for a permanent fix to the badly degraded road, amid safety concerns for children attending Bateau Bay Public School.

They complained last week that Central Coast Council had reneged on a commitment to look at urgent repair of crater-like potholes along the busy thoroughfare, advising that an inspection of the problem is not likely until next year with action unlikely to be taken before 2025.

After CCN asked Council for comment, crews moved in on July 26 to make pothole repairs.

But Fay Semple, who has been pushing for a permanent fix to the problem for more than a year, said she had no confidence the pothole repairs would last long.

“Last year, after we had all that heavy rain, the street was an utter mess and the potholes were quite deep,” she said.

“There is a school in the street so there are multiple cars using it every day to drop off and pick up children and it is also a bus route.

“As the potholes continued

to get worse, I contacted Council last year and was basically told it would cost too much money to fix them.

“So I canvassed residents and parents doing the school drop-off and collected more than 100 names on a petition and Member for The Entrance David Mehan came out to

take a look and support our calls on Council for action.

“Just days after his visit trucks were out there repairing the potholes but it was a superficial fix which wasn’t going to last and the holes soon reappeared.”

Semple said she feared the latest pothole fix would also

give way as soon as there was heavy rain. She said some parents had told her they had seen cars ignoring children on the crossing as they attempted to weave around potholes.

“I know there are many streets which need potholes repaired, but this is a major

safety issue with so many children crossing this street every day,” she said.

“It’s not just the potholes –other parts of the road are breaking up as well.”

Semple has lived in the street for 43 years.

“In all that time there has been no redoing of the road apart from one asphalt sprinkling, which again was a superficial job,” she said.

“In the past 18 months I have had to replace seven tires on my car.

“Four of them were perhaps getting a little old, but three of them needed to be replaced as a direct result of pothole damage.

“I understand this is a problem all over the region and there are probably roads in worse condition but when it comes to the safety of school children they should be taking more notice.

“To say I am disappointed is an understatement.

“I don’t know if Council realises just how many cars use this street on a daily basis.”

Mehan is calling on Council to provide a permanent fix.

“This isn’t good enough;

Council needs to … fix Waratah St this year,” he said.

A Council spokesperson said more permanent long term road rehabilitation of Waratah St, while originally to be considered for inclusion in Council’s 23/24 road renewal program, has been delayed.

“(This is) due to Council’s process of prioritising long term road rehabilitation based on site inspections and pavement modelling recommendations across the Central Coast,” the spokesperson said.

“Each year, a program of works is developed and refined based on available budget.

“Significant construction cost increases occurred in 2022/23 which meant some projects like Waratah St were then moved and listed for the following financial year.

“The Waratah St renewal is tentatively scheduled for 24/25, however should cost savings be achieved in 23/24, consideration will be given to bringing forward the Waratah St renewal project.”

Terry Collins

Life Your Way

Member for The Entrance David Mehan and Fay Semple on Waratah St

The Coast mourns a leading light

The Central Coast is mourning one of its leading lights following the death last week of Kevin Booth at the age of 92.

The mainstay of Booth’s Motor Group for more than six decades and a long-time member and former President of Gosford Musical Society, Kevin was loved and respected by generations of residents. He passed away on Wednesday, July 26.

Born in Gosford on August 13, 1930, Kevin attended Gosford Public and Gosford High schools, before joining his parents, Fred and Evelyn, in the business they had started in 1939.

“Dad was there the day the business opened, when he was just nine, and always knew that’s where his future would lie,” son David said.

He built it up to become a hugely successful business, overseeing it becoming a Rootes Group new car dealer in the 1940s and moving into car sales.

He was still seen at his desk daily until he was 90, even after sons David and Col and daughter Sandie took over the business.

A dedicated businessman,

Kevin also had a lifetime passion for musical theatre.

He was one of Gosford Musical Society’s first members, joining in 1947 when he was just 17, and was involved in numerous productions, both on-stage and backstage for many years.

He was a Life Member of GMS, was President of the group many times and also enjoyed the rare honour of being named a Life Member of the Committee.

“This meant he was always welcome at meetings and he continued to attend them until he was in his late 80s,” David said.

“He loved everything about GMS.

“He loved performing and

working backstage and just helping out anywhere; he was totally committed to it.”

It was a shared love of music which first drew him to his wife Nancye.

“Mum used to walk to her singing lessons past the dealership and Dad saw her and struck up a conversation,” David said.

“He invited her to a dance and mum tells the story that she left her earrings in his top pocket so he would have to see her again to give them back.”

Many find comfort in visiting a Memorial Site, especially at special times of the year like Father’s Day. It is a place to remain symbolically, emotionally and spiritually connected to our loved ones.

Join us this Father’s Day for a complimentary morning tea in the tranquil surroundings of our beautiful gardens to reflect and remember.

The romance flourished and the two married on October 12, 1957.

Nancye helped out in the dealership in the early years of the marriage and the couple worked together on many GMS shows as they raised their three children, all of whom followed their parents into the business and into GMS as well.

“Col and Sandie weren’t as involved with GMS in later years as I was, but we were all in shows and helped backstage from a young age,” David said.

Kevin is survived by his wife Nancye, sons David and Col Booth, daughter Sandie Parry, daughters-in-law Kate and Jacquie Booth, son-in-law Rob Parry, grandchildren Jake, Emily, Matt, Kelly, Sophie, Hamish and Hannah and greatgrandchildren Indi and Nixon.

“Sandie’s daughter Emily is due to have a baby at the end of August and only recently Dad was saying the baby might arrive on his birthday – August 13 – and should be called Kevin,” David said.

“Sandie replied ‘I don’t think so – it’s a girl’ and we all had a good laugh.

“Dad loved to laugh.

“He had a wonderful sense of humour and loved people playing tricks on each other.”

Awarded an OAM, Kevin was also nominated for the Community Theatre Association of NSW Hall of Fame and served on the Anglican Parish Council for more than 60 years.

He was also a past President of Gosford Rotary and Patron for Gosford Rugby Club after taking an interest in the game as he watched son David play.

“Dad was a hard worker and was dedicated to anything he took an interest in,” David said.

“He always wanted the best outcome for everything he was involved in.

“His interests were wide and varied – he even used to race speed boats on Gosford Broadwater in the ‘60s and ‘70s.”

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Kevin Booth OAM will be held on Wednesday, August 9, at 1pm at Gosford Anglican Church, 3 Mann St with all welcome to attend.

Terry Collins

Father’s Day

3rd September 2023

Kevin Booth in his younger days with his parents Fred and Evelyn at the dealership

The late Kevin Booth

Support your gender diverse child

A special information night on supporting your children who are gender diverse will be held in Gosford on August 12.

A spokesperson for PFLAG Central Coast said having a child come out as gender diverse can be a time full of uncertainty and questions.

“Parents learning about their kids’ experience and being able to understand what is happening for them is a huge part of supporting them,” the spokesperson said.

“All parents want to see their kids living happy, fulfilling, and authentic lives.

“Having your child come out as gender diverse can be a time full of uncertainty and questions.

“LGBTQIA+ youth experience higher levels of emotional distress than their peers, and

research tells us that the acceptance and support of their families can greatly reduce this.

“It can be challenging to understand what support and care is available.

“What is gender diversity?

“Where do you go for help?

“What support is available?

“What does the future look like for your child and your family?

“What can you do to keep your kid happy, healthy, and thriving?”

At the PFLAG: Gender Diversity Info Session, experts from headspace and Maple

Leaf House will share their knowledge and answering questions.

Attendees can learn about what gender diversity is, talk to experts about the support available and connect with other parents and carers.

headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, providing support to young people aged 12-25. headspace GPs based on the Central Coast will talk through gender affirming care options and what the process will be like to access support from the very first step at the GP appointment.

Maple Leaf House is a gender clinic based in Newcastle which provides specialist, multidisciplinary services for trans and gender diverse children and young people aged up to 24.

Aboriginal Advisory Committee confirmed

Central Coast Council has confirmed the makeup of its Aboriginal Advisory Committee which was officially endorsed at the Council meeting on July 25.

The Aboriginal Advisory Committee has a mandate to advise Council staff on identified issues that impact on local First Nations people, address relevant social issues identified in the Community Strategic Plan, and work to

address outcomes aligned to the recently developed Central Coast Council First Nations Accord.

Significant interest was received earlier this year when Council called for expressions of interest in a position on the committee with the following residents successfully appointed as members: Phillip Bligh, BJ Duncan, Steve Ella, Colleen Fuller, Vickie Parry, Jake McDonald, Monica McKenzie, Shahni Wellington and Wayne Merritt (alternate).

Council’s Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the committee will play an important role with providing advice to Council.

“The Aboriginal Advisory Committee is important in reconciling Council with our local First Nations People and will provide advice to us across a number of issues, but is not a decision making body,” she said.

Council Administrator Rik

Hart said he is pleased with the makeup of the committee and each member brings diversity of experience and knowledge.

“There was an outstanding pool of candidates who expressed their interest in being appointed to Council’s inaugural Aboriginal Advisory Committee,” Hart said.

“The appointed members represent significant experience and interests across a broad sector of our local Aboriginal community,

Deaf residents an inspiration

Two deaf residents at Peninsula Villages have inspired staff and other residents to learn Auslan, the Australian sign language, through regular language classes hosted at the aged care village.

Jan Morley and Maureen Stewart, aged 86 and 87 respectively, met at the age of eight at the NSW Institution for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind.

They have been close friends ever since and moved to Peninsula Villages in 2020 and 2023, respectively, to be together and support one another.

“We met our future husbands at the school,” Jan said.

“We both married deaf men, and we had wonderful marriages.

“We’re both widows now, but we still remain as close friends at the Village.”

Maureen said she decided to move to Peninsula Villages earlier this year so she could be close to Jan and they could

provide each other with a little extra support.

Both women are active members of the Peninsula Villages community, participating in weekly activities such as bingo, gardening and arts and crafts.

They communicate using Auslan and have been teaching staff and other residents how to sign since April, when they organised weekly sign language classes.

“We love using Auslan,” Maureen said.

“It’s our way of communicating and it’s a beautiful language.”

“We’re so happy that staff and other residents are learning Auslan too,” Jan said.

“It means that we can communicate with them better and they can understand us.”

The two women were born deaf and grew up in a world where sign language was not widely accepted.

They both faced challenges in their education and in their

personal lives, but have always been determined to live independent and fulfilling lives.

Leisure and Lifestyle Advocate, Karen Evans, and Care Worker, LeeAnn Medina, were inspired by Maureen and Jan’s determination and their love of Auslan.

They decided to attend the sign language classes so they could better communicate with residents who are hard of hearing.

“We’re so grateful to Maureen and Jan for teaching us,” they said.

One of Maple Leaf’s clinical psychologists will explain the support available from this service and how to access it.

The session will be held at the Fun Haus Factory in Gosford on August 16 from 6-8pm for parents and carers of LGBTQIA+ youth and children.

PFLAG Central Coast is a peer led support group for Parents and Carers of LGBTQIA+ people, established in March 2011, aiming to keep families together, happy and healthy and provide support and information to families, carers and friends of all same sex attracted and gender variant people.

The session is free but registration is essential at www.naughtynoodle.com.au/ yaas

Source: Naughty Noodle Fun Haus

with extensive experience in critical service provision such as health, education, housing, arts, culture and sport.

“I am confident that the appointed members share a desire to make our community a better place and will bring great credit to the role.”

For further information and to see the terms of reference the Aboriginal Advisory Committee Page on Council’s website.

Source: Central Coast Council

Deaf Connect is the largest whole-of-life service provider for Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing Australians.

“We believe that upskilling our staff is essential to providing the best possible care for our residents,” Villages CEO Colin Osborne said.

“By learning Auslan, our staff are able to better communicate with deaf residents and ensure that they feel included and respected.

“We are grateful to Jan, Maureen and Deaf Connect for their assistance in running the weekly classes and we are excited to see how this will improve communication between our staff and residents.”

“It’s a wonderful way to connect with them and other residents who are hard of hearing or deaf, and to make them feel more at home.”

In July Peninsula Villages engaged Deaf Connect to assist Jan and Maureen in running the weekly classes.

Peninsula Villages hosts Auslan classes every Thursday afternoon at 1.30pm for staff and residents.

Source: Peninsula Villages

Jan Morley and Maureen Stewart have inspired others to learn Auslan

The session will answer a lot of questions on gender diversity

Colleen Fuller is one of the members of the committee

Paving the way for return of councillors

In less than 14 months’ time, councillors will return to the Central Coast – the first elected body to run the region since former councillors were suspended in October 2020 and subsequently sacked in March 2022.

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart said the time leading up to the local government elections on September 14, 2024, will be critical in ensuring residents are ready and informed before casting their vote.

“I’ve been discussing the councillor return pathway with the Office of Local Government (OLG) and other administrators in NSW, with a view to developing a program for interested candidates ahead of the election,” Hart said. He has asked Council to prepare a series of public candidate information sessions to begin in October this year.

“I urge residents to start thinking about the type of councillor they want to elect to form part of the new governing body,” he said.

“The ideal candidate should be ready and willing to represent the entire Central Coast community – not just

their patch or ward – to work together with the balance of the governing body to uphold their responsibilities as outlined in the Act and to serve the Central Coast community to the best of their ability.

“OLG has explicitly indicated that administrators must play a key role in supporting their Council to transition back to elected leadership.”

The OLG says administrators should talk at candidate information sessions about the leadership failures of the former councillors and executive management which led to the previous Council’s dismissal and the steps taken

to address these failures while under administration.

This will contribute to the success of that transition back to an elected body, and ultimately, the successful future of the region, it says.

A report to the Council meeting on July 25 said once a councillor is elected, he or she immediately becomes part of Council’s governing body.

“The Act states that the role of a councillor is (in part): to be an active and contributing member of the governing body to make considered and wellinformed decisions as a member of the governing body, and to represent the collective

interests of residents, ratepayers and the local community,” the report said. It said good governance in local government should see councillors represent not just the ward in which they are elected, but the entire region.

The Central Coast community will also be asked a constitutional referendum question at the election regarding a proposal to reduce the number of elected councillors for the region from 15 to nine.

Community feedback on the proposal in March 2021 saw 78 per cent of 613 respondents in favour of the reduction.

We’ve moved.

Of those, 45 per cent favoured the existing five wards being reduced to three and 55 per cent preferred to abolish the wards and instead have nine councillors for the whole Central Coast.

The result of the 2024 referendum on the issue will be binding and apply from the following local government elections in 2028.

The public inquiry into Council specified that upfront and ongoing mandatory training, including training relating to financial management specific to local government, should be implemented for councillors to ensure that they are adequately

prepared for the obligations and responsibilities that come with the job.

Hart said he had advocated for tighter budget management controls, financial governance and financial reporting during his period of administration to ensure Council is in a sound position before the elected governing body takes over next September.

Council is developing a program of events to engage the community about the return of councillors.

An initial introductory public session for intending candidates will be held in midlate October this year, with formal sessions to be conducted between April and July 2024.

The disfunction of the previous council (both political and administrative) will be addressed in all sessions to ensure mistakes are not repeated.

It is proposed to also invite former independent Mayors from outside the Central Coast region who have held office successfully to present to the community at the sessions, providing

Terry Collins

From 31 July 2023 we’ll provide all Centrelink and Medicare services at: 173-175 The Entrance Road, The Entrance Services available at:

16-18 Fairview Avenue, The Entrance have moved on this date.

Opening hours at the new location are 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. We’re offering a range of options to do business with us. You can:

• use your myGov account, Express Plus mobile apps or phone self service to complete some of your business with us. To find out more go to servicesaustralia.gov.au/selfservice

• book an appointment for Centrelink services to minimise wait times

• have a one-on-one digital coaching session to help access our digital services.

To book an appointment call us on your main payment line or go to servicesaustralia.gov.au/phoneus

For Centrelink payments and services call 131 202 to speak with someone in your own language.

For Medicare call 132 011 and let us know if you need an interpreter. We will arrange one for free.

For Child Support call 131 272 and let us know if you need an interpreter. We will arrange one for free.

Central Coast councillors were sacked in 2022

Calls are ramping up to ban shark meshing on the Central Coast following the recent release of an annual performance report on the practice.

The Shark Meshing (Bather Protection) Program 2021/22 report, released by the Department of Primary Industries, has reinforced the concerns of local environment groups and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch.

The Community Environment Network (CEN) is urging the NSW Government not to award any tenders for the 2023/2024 shark meshing program in NSW waters and to discontinue the “archaic and ineffective” program.

“Shark meshing injures and kills more threatened and endangered species than it does the three types of sharks it is supposed to keep away from swimmers,” CEN Chair Gary Chestnut said.

“And that fact comes from data gathered by the NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries).

“The substantial and unjustifiable amount of bycatch killed or injured over many years means the shark meshing program is itself listed as a key

More calls to end shark meshing

threatening process in both the NSW Fisheries Management Act 1994 and the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

“How can the NSW Government continue the shark meshing program when it is known to be a threat to biodiversity and sustainability?”

Chestnut said the meshing is far from shark proof and CEN was shocked by the NSW DPI’s call for tenders for shark meshing for the 2023-24 season on the Central Coast and in the six other LGAs from Newcastle to Wollongong.

“This call for tenders, which closed on July 24, occurred despite strong community opposition to shark meshing in the winter of 2022 and the extensive and ongoing rollout of other shark mitigation strategies,” he said.

“We have written to the Minister for Agriculture (Fisheries) Tara Moriarty, along with all NSW parliamentarians who represent the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie, to urge them to stop the shark meshing program.”

Chestnut said in the most recent reporting period (202122) the program captured only 28 White Sharks representing

7.4 per cent of total catches.

The White Shark is now listed as vulnerable/endangered. Almost twice that number (42) of non-target species were caught in the same period, including 19 Green Turtles, 16 Leatherback Turtles, 6 Grey Nurse Sharks and 1 Loggerhead Turtle, all of which are endangered/vulnerable.

The shark meshing program has been used in NSW since 1937 and was designed at that time to protect beachgoers from predatory sharks including White, Tiger and Bull sharks during peak swimming season.

In its present form, external contractors set large-mesh nets at the beginning of the season and check nets every

three days for entangled animals, including the three target sharks but also significant amounts of bycatch. Entangled animals are often deceased, and their carcasses are dumped offshore.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has also renewed his call for the Government to shelve the nets and provide three S.M.A.R.T Drumlines to Central Coast Council.

Crouch said the performance report revealed only 38 per cent of marine life caught in the nets over the report period were released alive.

“(This) is frankly an appalling number,” he said.

“I am again calling on the Government to provide the last remaining S.M.A.R.T Drumlines

(needed) for Council to meet the minimum standards required to make an expression of interest into trialling the removal of shark nets on the Central Coast.

“Of the 228 marine animals caught in shark nets in NSW, only 24 were target shark species.”

Crouch said the Department’s recent report was “crystal clear” in its assessment and showed the lack of effectiveness of shark nets in the region.

“These survival statistics, tied in with six reports of damage to shark nets on the Central Coast, including holes large enough for sharks to swim through, show these relics were(are) no longer fit for purpose,” he said.

Crouch said he had written to the Minister for Agriculture in May seeking clarification on the future of shark nets on the Central Coast, but the government was still “dithering”.

Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast coordinator Ronny Ling expressed shock when tenders were called for the program last month, adding his voice to the call for a ban.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said at the time no final decision had been made about the installation of nets this summer but reiterated his commitment to see an end to them.

He told CCN that targeted consultation is being undertaken to coincide with the tender release to provide a fresh opportunity for the eight councils with nets to provide their position on shark nets, as well as other shark mitigation measures.

Feedback received through the consultation process will be considered and inform the development of the 2023/24 Shark Management Program, which will be announced in September.

Terry Collins

Dolphins often fall victim to shark nets

Dr Penny Newson has been appointed inaugural chief executive officer of the Central Coast Community Council (CCCC).

Having lived on the Central Coast for most of her life, Newson brings a wealth of experience to the role as well as a deep commitment to community development.

Her extensive background includes teaching at TAFE, lecturing at Newcastle

Coast Shelter sleepout getting closer

With less than a month to go until the Coast Shelter Sleepout 2023, the call is out for more Coasties to sign up to take part in the event.

More than $130,000 has already been raised with Coast Shelter well on the way to achieving its target of $200,000.

All money raised from the event, to be held on Friday, August 25, at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium, will go towards helping the most vulnerable people facing homelessness and domestic and family violence across the Central Coast.

Last year’s sleepout raised

more than $180,000.

Participants need to raise $1,000 to be eligible to attend.

Those opting to sleep rough for one night will be treated to dinner (sponsored by Mars Food Australia), live entertainment, a Coast Shelter beanie (sponsored by Eastcoast Beverages), a Keep Cup (sponsored by The Agency Real Estate), coffee, tea and water provided by CSespresso and breakfast (sponsored by MoovModular).

“It will be an eye-opening experience and a small insight into what thousands of vulnerable Central Coast community members experience every night,” a

New CEO for community council

University and actively engaging with various community organisations.

As the founder of the notfor-profit organisation Happiness Habits Inc, Newson has worked closely with community members to create positive change.

“I am honoured that the Board of Central Coast Community Council is trusting me to carry out important strategic initiatives we have identified,” she said.

“These initiatives will benefit local community service organisations and their workers and the wider Central Coast community.

“I will do my best over the coming year to foster collaboration and advocate for what our community needs.”

CCCC president David Mylan said the organisation was confident that Newson’s vast community involvement, coupled with her longstanding

local knowledge and connections, would greatly enhance and advance the council’s mission to improve the wellbeing of Central Coast residents.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr Penny Newson as our inaugural CEO,” Mylan said.

“With her extensive background in education, community engagement and not-for-profit leadership, we are confident that Dr Newson

will propel our organisation to new heights and ensuring that the Central Coast community thrives and prospers under her guidance.”

CCCC focuses on supporting community sector organisations and strives to create an inclusive and equitable society where all residents can thrive.

Source: Central Coast Community Council

Coast Shelter spokesperson said.

“You’ll be able to meet lots of like-minded people, connect with other Central Coast businesses, enjoy some light entertainment and hopefully you’ll catch a few hours’ sleep.

“We hope you can join us!”

Participants can join as an individual or sign up as a team and start fundraising with colleagues, friends, family or teammates.

You can sign up for the sleepout at https:// coastsheltersleepout.com.au/

Source: The Coast Shelter Events Team

Dr Penny Newson

Pat Farmer to pass through Coast on 14,400km run for the Voice

Ultra marathon runner Pat Farmer will pass through the Central Coast later this month as he runs 14,400km from Tasmania to Uluru in support of a Yes vote in the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum.

Farmer began his Run for The Voice in Tasmania on April 17, with a send-off from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and will end the run at Uluru in October.

As a proud Central Coast resident, the former Federal MP is passionate about

improving the outcomes for First Nations’ communities and is supporting constitutional recognition by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

Farmer served as a Member of the Australian House of Representatives representing the seat of Macarthur from 2001 to 2010, as a member of the Liberal Party.

He has since established reputation in international and national ultra-marathons.

Between April 2011 and January 2012, Farmer

successfully completed the world’s longest ultra-marathon, a Pole to Pole Run from the North Pole to the South Pole, raising $100,000 for Red Cross International.

Farmer trained for this latest endeavour by running 40km daily, with a gym session most afternoons.

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid is encouraging Coasties to cheer Farmer on when he arrives at the Ettalong foreshore on Monday, August 21.

Farmer will arrive on the

foreshore adjacent to The Box at 4pm on the day, where he will be met by family, friends and supporters.

“If you would like to be a part of this historic event, please come down to Ettalong Foreshore from 3.30pm to welcome Pat,” Reid said.

Residents can also register to join Farmer on the Central Coast leg of his marathon at www.runforthevoice.com

Terry Collins

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

You’ll be helped a lot in understanding the system and will then be able to confidently consider what steps you need to take to properly consider challenges to Wills.

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, and the team from O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing at last year’s sleepout

Pat Farmer sets off on his run from Hobart

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has vowed to work with Minister for Crown Lands Steve Kamper to salvage as much as possible of the historic Empire Bay boatshed and to commit to a more transparent process.

“The boatshed is a vital element of the Central Coast’s marine heritage as a symbol of the long history of boatbuilding on the Central Coast,” she said.

“Over a century old and owning the title of the third building ever built in Empire Bay, this important site has been left neglected by the previous tenants and has continued to decay.”

Tesch said it was “bitterly disappointing” that the former State Government did not take

Tesch weighs in on Empire Bay boatshed

advantage of the opportunity to salvage the boatshed during its 12 years in government.

Tesch said she had been in discussions with Minister Kamper.

“He understands the historical significance of the boatshed and the environmental and public health impacts it poses,” she said.

“Crown Lands has engaged a heritage consultant to document the site and work with the community to salvage part of this historically significant location.

“We are concerned about ensuring some historical value can be salvaged.

“The boat shed is listed on the Central Coast Local and Environment Plan as an

important element of our Brisbane Water marine heritage and our local community deserves proper consultation, including access to heritage reports undertaken.

“I am glad that Crown Lands has committed to make these reports publicly accessible.”

Despite a huge community campaign to salvage the original boatshed building, Crown Lands remains convinced it has to go.

Empire Bay Heritage Boat ShedAssociation spokesperson Errol Baker said the 300+ members of the group had held several gatherings on site, the latest of which was on July 22, and had had their own advice from a structural engineer that the boatshed could be saved safely.

He also accused Crown Lands of lack of transparency.

But a spokesperson said Crown Lands has met previously with the Empire Bay Boatshed Association and the Empire Bay Progress Association and had discussions and correspondence on why the boatshed needs to be removed.

“The community is regularly updated with fact sheets available on the Department’s website and with letter box drops,” the spokesperson said.

“Expert advice from structural engineers is that the boatshed is dilapidated, structurally unsound, in danger of collapse, and access should be strictly prohibited in and around it for public safety.

“The structure is defective,

does not meet Australian standards and needs to be removed to allow site remediation.”

The spokesperson said the marina site has been declared significantly contaminated by the EPA, requiring its cleanup.

“Contaminants onsite include tributyltin (TBT), hydrocarbons, metals (copper, lead, nickel, zinc and mercury) and asbestos warranting regulation under the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997,” he said.

“The dilapidated structures need to be removed to allow for full and safe access to the site to remove underground fuel tanks, undertake further contamination testing beneath the structures, and then associated remediation.

No free parking for Gosford Hospital

From page 1

“A commitment was made by the Coalition prior to the state election which was matched by the then Opposition,” he said.

“We have now seen this promise broken by the Minns Labor Government less than a month after the Minister for the Central Coast said they would

commit to free parking.

“This broken promise affects all of those patients and visitors to the hospital at a time when cost-of-living is at an all-time high and it is appalling the Government has broken its promise.”

The Central Coast is listed on the NSW Department of Health

website as one of the nine Local Health Districts in the state classed as regional. Shadow Minister for Central Coast, Scott Farlow, said the Government needs to come clean and explain why Gosford is being treated differently to all other hospitals in regional and rural NSW.

“If the Government is going to change the Central Coast’s classification as a region, what other programs will be impacted?” he said.

“This is another example of the Government saying one thing and doing another; the people of the Central Coast deserve better.”

Bridgette Weekes is one of many Central Coast residents who visit Gosford Hospital regularly.

“We were led to believe during the election that parking at Gosford Hospital was going to be free,” she said.

“It appears these were empty promises.”

“Crown Lands has engaged a heritage consultant to assess the heritage significance and document the boatshed and make recommendations on archiving, recording and identifying any items that could potentially be salvaged and made available for interpretive reuse or memorialisation.

“Once completed, this document will be made available on the department’s website.”

The spokesperson said engineers reports on the site were available on the department website at www. crownland.nsw.gov.au/whatshappening/notifications/ empire-bay-marina

Terry Collins

Harris said parking at Wyong Hospital would remain free, which he said would be a “welcome announcement for the community of Wyong”.

Terry Collins

During peak holiday season in January this year, I slipped down my very steep, and wet driveway, fracturing my ankle.

Six months on, most of my post-operative care has been completed. And now it’s time for me to say a big heartfelt thank you to all of the extraordinary people who helped me in my recovery.

First up is Terry Ford, a local

A big thank you to a great many people

FORUM

flooring installer. He picked me up (not an easy feat on a 45-degree angle), helped inside, elevated my ankle, applied ice packs and called an ambulance. And all the while he did his utmost to calm and comfort me.

The ambo arrived soon after and he too was exceptional, providing pain relief, a splint

and crutches, followed by transport to Gosford Hospital. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to get this veteran ambo’s name.

At the busy emergency department at Gosford Hospital,

I was acknowledged by friendly welcoming smiles and was swiftly attended to by a multitude of professionals. And the high level of care and attention continued after I was

transferred to J9 Ward: cleaners, catering staff, nurses, doctors, specialists, physios and volunteers all contributed to my wellbeing in their own way. The nurses, in particular, were outstanding, as I saw first-hand their extraordinary work ethic over the 11 days that I spent in hospital.

My home care by ADSSI was also very good, given this was the busy holiday season and

many staff were on leave. Finally, the bone health specialists at the Osteoporosis Re-fracture Prevention Clinic, along with the friendly and dedicated team who conducted physiotherapy and hydrotherapy sessions at Woy Woy Hospital Outpatients were excellent.

And while my surgery was delayed a few times and I had a couple of long waits in

Cheap energy an oxymoron

I am pleased that your correspondent in CCN 400 concedes that renewable energy is not free.

In fact, cheap energy is an oxymoron.

I would not consider Adelaide as a hot example on renewable energy use.

SA has an umbilical cord connecting it to the eastern (coal) states and its Premier would like to see nuclear investigated, but was overruled

by the big boy in Canberra.

Despite its drawbacks, nuclear could possibly be a viable option for Australia.

More work needs to be done to ascertain its value to us.

Mindlessly investing in largescale renewables and ignoring other options, as we have done, is a risky business – some would say insane.

So far as I am aware the

The No case public pamphlet (for the voice to Parliament) has been prepared by a majority of the minority in the Federal Parliament.

Outpatients on occasions, I am very grateful for the care and attention I received.

I also want to give a big shoutout to my wonderful neighbours at number 7, number 9 and number 13, who helped me in my recovery at home. You are awesome. Thank you all again.

largest storage to date is the Manatee Energy Storage Centre in Florida USA.

The Manatee Energy Storage Centre will have a 409-megawatt (MW) capacity with the ability to deliver 900 MWh of energy – enough to power 329,000 homes for more than two hours.

That’s the equivalent of around 100 million iPhone batteries,and when operational, it’ll be four times the capacity of the current largest battery

system in operation. Big deal; this is only token storage.

time outages.

membrane.

The Tesla in Adelaide has a capacity of 150MW and storage of 194MWh, quite feeble in comparison. No one to date is claiming that they can provide economic large-scale battery storage of energy.

Batteries so far have only been useful for helping to stabilise the grid or for small-

It is suggested that those who do not think that large-scale economic storage of electricity is a huge challenge should look at the electrochemistry behind the well-established (for small appliances) lithium-ion battery which is currently favoured for upscale development.

Lithium-ion batteries depend on the migration of lithium cations backwards and forwards (charge and discharge) through a permeable

The economics of this depend on the concentration and migration speed of the cations across the membrane as well as the area of the membrane.

The battery economics problem is an inconvenient truth for clean, green renewables die-hards.

A No pamphlet based on negatives Report those ugly signs

reason to find out what this is all about.

This means it is a majority pamphlet from the Opposition Party only, meaning an overall minority.

There may well be several Opposition MPs and Senators who actually support the Yes case.

The No pamphlet states: “if you don’t know, vote No”.

What kind of unhelpful advice is that really?

l would say that is the best

The pamphlet also claims: “It is the biggest change to our Constitution”. More nonsense.

The creation of a purely advisory body is a very important change, long overdue, but certainly not “the biggest change”.

In any case there certainly have been far too few changes to this now archaic colonial Constitution.

A real problem is that most

Australians know very little about it.

How can it be “risky” –another claim.

FORUM FORUM FORUM

There cannot be a lot of detail as it would be completely impossible to forecast what projects could be forthcoming and how to implement them. Another claim is that it would be “divisive”.

I suggest the opposite would be far more likely.

It most disappointing that this pamphlet is built on negatives. It looks like an exercise in fear mongering.

That is possible because many Australians are not

sufficiently familiar with the history and problems of the Indigenous people, representing the oldest culture in the world.

This referendum is the result of the Uluru Statement of the Heart, 2017 – a representative body of Indigenous people.

Therefore a major initiative by the Indigenous people themselves.

It would be completely nonsensical not to support this.

Email, Jul 29 Klaas and Aafke Woldring, Pearl Beach

I sympathise with Paul Croft’s concern about lots of illegal business advertising on power poles in Woy Woy and Umina (Forum CCN 400).

The brazenness of many of the offenders is truly remarkable.

However, I can understand why Ausgrid (which maintains the electricity network on the Central Coast) and Central Coast Council do not go around removing the signs.

They are under constant

pressure to deal with far more serious matters and do not have the resources to patrol the area looking for minor offences. But they will gladly remove signs if we report them on their website or by calling 13 13 65.

Signs on other public property can be reported to Central Coast Council via the Report an Issue program on its website or by calling 4306 7900.

Email, July 30 Tim Slocum, Umina Beach

Email, Jul 27 Charles Hemmings

Email, Jul 30 Carla Holt, North Gosford

Few authors can write murder/courtroom drama as well as Jeffrey Archer, so Hugh Janes was already on a winner when he decided to adapt Archer’s short story The Perfect Murder for the stage.

Woy Woy Little Theatre’s production of the fast-paced mystery thriller is set to open on Friday, August 4, for three weekends.

Set in England, the play centres around the murder of a young woman with the split

Can you solve The Perfect Murder?

stage alternating between the office of the policemen investigating the murder and the home of a middle-aged couple, John and Elizabeth Hoskins.

As the drama unfolds, it becomes clear that John is somehow involved in the grisly crime.

Did he commit it?

Elizabeth is determined to keep John out of prison, even if it means that an innocent man will be punished for the crime.

As the fast-paced action

continues, audiences are bombarded with clues as they try to decide just who did murder Carla Moorland.

Act II sees the police office transform into a courtroom as the murder trial proceeds.

Who has been charged?

Do the police have the right man?

You will be on the edge of your seat until the final denouement – with a final plot twist guaranteed to leave you gobsmacked.

With clever staging, lighting

and music, director Terry Collins is set to deliver a pacy, atmospheric production which will have you guessing until the very end.

Collins has directed many successful productions for the company, most recently Four Flat Whites in Italy and Ladies in Lavender.

“I loved this play as soon as I read it,” Collins said.

“The characters are nicely drawn, the action is fast-paced and the twists just keep coming.

“I have been very lucky to attract a top cast and crew.

“I really think audiences will love this production.”

A stellar cast includes some WWLT favourites along with a few newcomers.

It comprises (in order of appearance): Graham Vale, Yvonne Berry-Porter, Gordon Crawford, Scott Larimore, Chris Cherry, Greg Buist, Gerard Minogue, Andy Kabanoff, Darienne Knight, Karen Rowe, Michelle Wallace and Michael Sheather.

The Perfect Murder opens on Friday, August 4, and plays for three weekends, with performances at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays until August 20 (with a special Saturday matinee on August 19).

Book on the Woy Woy Little Theatre website - www. woywoylt.com

Clockwise from top: Chris Cherry, Scott Larimore and Gordon Crawford in The Perfect Murder; Courtroom action in The Perfect Murder; Greg Buist and Graham Vale in The Perfect Murder

The Tuggerah Art Society will present a special exhibition and expo at The Art House, Wyong, from August 4-30, accompanied by a series of related seminars in the conference room.

The Our Natural World Expo will showcase the collaboration

Our Natural World Expo at Wyong

The spotlight will well and truly shine a light on talented Central Coast students at this year’s Schools Spectacular, the world’s largest amateur variety show and one of public education’s flagship arts events.

With the Spectacular turning 40 this year, schools from across the Central Coast will join hundreds of students from right across NSW on the stage at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena when they perform in the Fabulous Party – this year’s theme.

Three students from Terrigal high School will be among more than 150 performing as featured artists.

Ken Griffiths and Sydney

between Charmhaven Lions, Your Guide Central Coast, Walkabout Sanctuary, The Crud Muffins, GNL Aboriginal Corporation and Tuggerah Lakes Art Society –organisations which are dedicated to protecting wildlife and raising awareness through art.

The exhibition will feature the cream of artists on the Central Coast and also some artists who have never exhibited previously.

The expo will be launched at 6pm on Friday, August 4, with free entry and all welcome.

The Art House will be serving a variety of finger food and

there will be non-alcoholic punch (café and bar will be open).

Central Coast-based flutist Pu-Yu Wu will play a selection of contemporary flute music and proceeds of a raffle held on the night will go to the Walkabout Wildlife Park at Calga.

Seminars will be held on: August 8 – What’s Happening to the Frogs in my Backyard with Sharon Ridsdale; August 15 –Safe Cat, Safe Wildlife Community Project with the Crud Muffins; August 19 –Dhinawan/Dinam (Emu) Painting at GNL; and August 22 – Saving Our Natural World

Singer songwriter sessions at The Entrance

After a sold-out launch event in June, Central Coast Acoustic Songwriter Sessions has announced tickets to the August event are now on sale.

The Entrance Lake House is hosting the bi-monthly singer/ songwriter night showcasing local upcoming musicians and the stories behind their original songs.

Supported by community radio station Coast FM and organised by local musicians, Michelle Murrell and Meagan Jane, each event will showcase three different songwriters from the Coast and surrounding

areas in an intimate dinner and show setting.

The next event will be on August 25 starting at 6.30pm, featuring Ruby Shay, Micelle Murrell and Suz Dorahy.

Shay is a Central Coast singer, songwriter and cover artist who writes well-structured, meaningful songs which draw the listener into a world of love, heartbreak, loss, selfexploration and humility.

As a cover artist, Shay has a diverse repertoire that will please audience members of all ages.

Michelle Murrell is an alternate country singer/

songwriter also from the Central Coast.

Murrell has a unique and distinctive vocal sound, showcasing a country folk twang mixed with a heavily influenced ‘90s grunge upbringing.

Often joined by her musician husband James on percussion, Murrell’s original mixture of melodic vocals, rhythmic guitar and well-crafted song writing is a journey audience members will remember.

Suz Dorahy has emerged as a singer songwriter of remarkable strength and presence and in her music, you will hear the

Coast students are simply spectacular

Mickle, both in Year 11, and Maddi Johnson in Year 9, successfully auditioned for their places in the featured ensembles and are very excited about the opportunity.

Ken is part of the Bangarra Aboriginal Dance Company and the boys’ hip hop ensemble while Sydney will feature as a member of the ballet ensemble and Maddi in the hip hop ensemble.

All three students said they were looking forward to developing their skills as dancers and performers and networking with other talented students to achieve performance excellence.

“Terrigal High School is very proud of these students’ talent and selection into the largest performing arts event in the southern hemisphere with over 5000 performers from public

schools across NSW,” Terrigal High School relieving principal Sharnee Klempert said.

“We can’t wait to watch them perform and represent themselves, their families and Terrigal High School.”

Other Central Coast schools whose students will be performing this year include Brisbane Water Secondary College Woy Woy Campus, Chertsey Primary School, Gorokan Public School, Kariong Public School, Narara Valley High School, Niagara Park Public School, Northlakes High School, Warnervale Public School and Woy Woy South Public School.

They will join a cast of thousands over two days, August 24 and 25, celebrating a show that has wowed audiences for 40 years since its first performance to celebrate the opening of Darling

influence of artists and styles that have influenced her including Sheryl Crow, Lucinda Williams, Joni Mitchell and Fleetwood Mac.

Dorahy is an authentic and nuanced singer and songwriter who grew up on the Central Coast, learning classical guitar as a nine-year-old, playing music into her 20s until an athletics career took over.

She rediscovered her passion for music after travelling to Tamworth to play with the Wayward Henrys which led her on her songwriting journey.

Source: Acoustic Songwriter Sessions

Harbour’s Entertainment Centre in 1983.

“The Schools Spectacular is just that – a spectacular display of the incredibly talented students and staff in our public schools,” executive director Richard Spiewak said.

“To be chosen to perform at this worldclass event is not only testament to their talent, but also an opportunity for students to nurture their love for performing while working alongside some of the finest talents in the entertainment industry.”

Tickets for the 2023 Schools Spectacular went on sale on July 28.

with Tassin Barnard of the Walkabout Wildlife Park.

Source: Tuggerah Art Society

Tassin Barnard of Walkabout Wildlife Park will present at the expo

There will be a variety of seminars

Ruby Shay, Micelle Murrell and Suz Dorahy

Source: NSW Department of Education Terrigal High School

Terrigal High School students Sydney Mickle, Maddi Johnson and Ken Griffiths

Bathtub Gin Orchestra heads for Pearl Beach

Described as two parts 1920s stomp, one-part early 1930s swing with a dash of Gypsy jazz thrown in, the Bathtub Gin Orchestra’s concert at Pearl Beach on August 12 promises to have all the good vibes of the party music of the early 20th Century.

The swinging sextet comprises Phoebe Haselden on violin/vocals, Dorian Mode on piano/vocals, Morgan Haselden on guitar/vocals, Brendan Berlach on clarinet, Fiona Lugg on double bass and Toby Hall on drums.

Dorian Mode is a multi-award winning jazz musician, composer and author who has lived and worked in London and

New York, performing at many jazz festivals and venues and on numerous television shows.

Morgan Haselden trained at the Sydney Conservatorium in classical music and as one half of the Mimosa Duo with his wife, violinist Phoebe Haselden, has performed on the Opera House main stage and as guest entertainer on luxury cruise liners.

In 2014, the couple spent six months living and performing in France and the two have toured extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand. With over 20 years’ teaching and professional performing experience, Brenan Berlach has performed jazz on television and stage and has regularly performed across the Central

Coast in a number of diverse ensembles.

Fiona Lugg has accompanied many of Sydney’s top jazz musicians including Bob Barnard, Sandy Evans, the late Roger Frampton, vocalist Lily Dior and Canadian cabaret artist Patricia O’Callaghan.

Toby Hall is one of the most highly regarded drummers in Australia.

The concert is on August 12 at Pearl Beach Memorial Hall. Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.Trybooking.com/ CJGXH with all profits go towards planned renovations to the hall.

Tea cup paintings on show

The Bay Gallery at Ettalong Beach is a hidden gem, featuring the work of six different artists.

It features landscape, abstract and digital art as well as realism and contemporary drawings. The variety and quality of artists is what makes this gallery so unique.

Princesses of pop coming to Wyong

Featured artist for the month of August will be Helen Mortimer. Her exhibition When There was Time for Tea features highly detailed teacup paintings, accurately capturing the intricate patterns and colours that make these cups and saucers so special.

These paintings evoke memories of times gone by when there was time to share a cup of tea with friends and family – particularly with older family members.

“People feel a sense of nostalgia and joy when they look at these paintings,” Mortimer said. Enjoy a glass of wine

and a chat with Mortimer and the five other Bay Gallery Artists on Friday, August 4, from 5.30-7.30 pm.

The gallery is at 29 Broken Bay Rd, Ettalong Beach.

Source: Bay Gallery

38th Annual Conference of the NSW & ACT ASSOCIA TION OF FAM ILY HIS TORY SOCIET IES

8th – 10th September 2023

Get ready for a huge night of entertainment at The Art House when singer and actress Nikki Bennett performs the Australian premiere of Princesses of Pop.

In what has been described as a powerhouse performance, Bennett will bring to the stage the stories of three of Australia’s international superstars – Judith Durham, Helen Reddy and Olivia Newton-John.

During a career spanning 35 years in the Australian entertainment industry, Bennett has starred in feature films, television dramas and musical theatre.

With her production company Divacorp, she has produced and performed shows in 52 countries and for 15 years was a favourite regular guest on shows including Midday, Hey Hey Its Saturday and Good Morning Australia.

In 2022, Bennett brought her production INVINCIBLE – The Helen Reddy Story to Australian theatres, telling the story of a single mother from Melbourne who became both queen of ’70s pop and an international feminist icon.

This year Bennett has expanded on that theme to include the stories of Australia’s two other trailblazers, Judith Durham and Olivia Newton-John.

In a beautifully crafted show, Bennett has woven the greatest hits of all three Australian legends and their extraordinary life stories resulting in a compelling and completely unique experience.

All their hits including Georgy Girl, I am Woman, Hopelessly Devoted, I Honestly Love You, the Carnival is Over and many, many more will be featured in the show.

See it at The Art House, Wyong, on August 4. Bookings on 4335 1458 or the theatre website.

Source: The Art House

Speakers include:

Jill Ball

Michael Bell

Mark Bundy

Kerry Farmer

David Harris MP

Gay Hendriksen

Kevin Ingle

Martyn Killion

Jeff Madsen

Michelle Patient

Geoff Potter

1 Hargraves

Jason Reeve

Dr. Richard Reid

Transcription trio forum: Joy Murrin, Marilyn Rowan, Laurence Turtle

Register and pay online – closing date 27 August 2023

Registrations for physical attendance will close at 200.

Cost: $175.00

Friday night Meet and Greet $25.00

Saturday night Conference Dinner $65.00

Virtual attendance $50.00

Group Virtual Attendance $150.00

We are holding a Friday Fair, free and open to the public.

Email: wfhgconference@westnet.com.au

Further details available:

Website: The Running Waters of History – Home (weebly.com)

Source: Pearl Beach Progress Association The Bathtub Gin Orchestra

Nikki Bennett as Olivia Newton-John, Helen Reddy and Judith Durham

ACROSS

1. Chores

4. Cleaver

8. Curly-horned alpine goat

11. Malaysian noodle dish

13. Helicopter vane

15. Beef cut (1-4)

17. Measure of resistance

18. Spirit contact board

20. Inebriate

21. Belonging to them

24. Firebug’s felony

27. How-to (book) (1,1,1)

28. Pet welfare society (1,1,1,1,1)

30. Positive (attitude) (3-2)

31. Cuba’s former president, ... Castro

33. Scream wildly

34. South American mammal

35. Disclaim

36. Plinth

39. Holds onto

42. Oodles

44. Reasons, ... & wherefores

45. Enthusiastic

46. Wise

48. Drilling insect

49. Ballroom favourite

50. Unspoilt paradise

52. Largest Bolivian city (2,3) 54. Lean

55. Did needlepoint

56. Skimpy pool outfit 57. Hardens

Fill

60. Starring role

62. Martial art

65. Weave (ropes) together

67. Bonnie’s crime partner

69. Function host

70. Choose (government)

72. Managing director (1,1,1)

73. Idolise

75. Exchange

77. Ugly old woman

79. Resonant bell sound 81. Mouse relative 82. Signalling flame 84. Sibling’s daughter 85. Medieval guitars 86. Extensive 87. Removed (fleece) 88. Not alive DOWN

1. Overhangs, ... out

2. Ink smudges

3. California’s ... Francisco

4. Build

5. Hooded jacket

6. War fleet

7. Love god

8. I owe you (1,1,1)

9. New wife

10. Skeleton photograph (1-3)

12. Two-masted vessel

14. Stimulant

16. Conveyed

19. Leaves in the lurch

22. Actor, Neil Patrick ...

23. Earth’s glacial period (3,3)

25. Castor

26. Family crest, coat ... (2,4) 29. Mentally ready, ... up 32. Apply gently 35. Indulges half-heartedly

Rep 38. Savoured 40. Harp-like instruments

Tossed greens 42. Detox (centre)

Shiny fabric

Grab

Biblical sea

Approached

Consonant or vowel

Dress fastener

Decluttered

Outdo

Wide blue yonder

Brackets and Jam will celebrate 25 years on the Central Coast on August 5 with an amazing lineup of talent including Woodie McClean, Dave Stone, the Dan Granero Band and The Moths.

The day kicks off at noon with a not-to-be-missed performance

Brackets and Jam celebrates 25 years

by Woodie McClean, whose rich vocals have featured on former Grizzlee Train frontman Brandon Dodd’s solo album and Molly Millington’s 2018 single Sinner.

Discovering a love for music at a young age, McClean immersed himself in soul, jazz, blues, country rock, Americana and pop, all of which underpin

his debut EP Words in Mind.

Dave Stone is regarded as one of Australia’s most dynamic and progressive Aussie blues and roots artists.

As an accomplished singer, songwriter and guitarist, Stone has toured extensively both in Australia and overseas. His signature guitar work,

Elaine’s gift to literacy

With over 40 years’ teaching experience, Elaine Alvin has put pen to paper and published a book on literacy especially aimed at helping young teachers and parents.

Now retired and living at Bateau Bay, Alvin took three years to write the book – The Gift of Literacy.

After a four-decade career specialising in both special education and the gifted and talented, Alvin was on a mission to provide more information about learning difficulties and how to address them in the classroom for both teachers and parents.

“This book is the product of recognition of the fact that there is so little information, even in teaching training establishments, and even less given to a parent who is coping with a child who has learning difficulties,” she said,

“While there are many books on literacy, many are tied to theory which is only as good as what will work in a classroom.

“I wanted to give something back after so many years because so many kids need help.”

Alvin’s work covered teaching at primary and secondary levels with many years spent in the field of special education as a special education officer-in-charge as well as a district consultant and tutoring at the Ourimbah campus of Newcastle University.

A highlight of her career was presenting a paper on gifted and talented students at a world conference in Germany.

She has also presented special education papers at both state and national conferences.

The book covers most aspects of the area of literacy including Alvin’s work in diagnosing learning difficulties in underachieving gifted and talented students.

The book is available through Amazon and Thrifty Books.

Barnes

Denice

insightful original songs and unique slide guitar skills have delighted audiences from Sydney to Shanghai.

Dan Granero is a blues/rock lead guitarists/vocalist from the Central Coast who performs with massive doses of energy, supported by two band members, David Hentzschel on

bass and James Grubisa on drums, who have performed and recorded together for over nine years.

The event takes place on top of Kincumba Mountain, the birthplace and spiritual home of Brackets and Jam on the Central Coast.

Since its inception 25 years

ago, Brackets and Jam has staged at least 10 events a year, translating to a thousand hours of live music and drum jams.

The day is BYO everything including a chair or blanket and a picnic.

Elaine Alvin with her book

Source: Brackets and Jam

Clockwise from left: Woodie McClean; Dan Granero Band; Dave Stone; Moths

Business & Property

Be a part of next year’s Harvest Festival

It’s time to express your interest in being an event hub for the 2024 Harvest Festival – one of the largest and most successful events on the Central Coast.

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the festival grows in popularity each year and attracts thousands of people to the region’s hinterland from near and far.

“The Harvest Festival event highlights the Central Coast hinterland, rural farming communities and their gorgeous heritage villages through the delivery of lively event hubs ready for everyone to explore,” she said.

“Locations span Dooralong, Jilliby, Yarramalong, Wyong Creek, Kulnura, Mangrove Mountain, Peats Ridge, Somersby and Calga.

“Developed to link with local

The festival will be held on June 8-9 next year

farmers, businesses and events in the hinterland area, the festival celebrates fantastic local produce from around the region.

“This year’s festival included 32 event hubs ranging from farm tours, fruit picking and produce markets to food and wine fairs, as well as live entertainment.

“I encourage any local farmers, businesses, organisations or community

groups located in the hinterland to get in early and submit their interest by September 1 to be a part of the Harvest Festival program on June 8-9, 2024.”

Event hubs could include: open farm gate sales; ticketed farm tours/talks; pick your own produce; tours and talks; Indigenous cultural experiences/bush tucker tours; cinema under the stars; art events/installations; live music events; family fun events; cooking demonstrations; food

experiences with local produce; and obstacle course races/fun runs.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the festival is successful because of the collaboration of all involved.

“Harvest Festival would not be possible without the contribution of local businesses, organisations, and community groups,” he said.

“We look forward to continuing to evolve our

Heritage backdrop for city hall wedding

An iconic heritage-listed venue in the heart of Gosford has been refashioned as a chapel of love for a city hall-style wedding.

Founder of City Hall Registry and authorised marriage celebrant, Tara Merillo, said that with the rise of micro and macro weddings and unconventional wedding ceremonies, more and more couples were looking for ways to celebrate their love in a unique, personalised and affordable way.

“Whether you are looking for a ‘quickie Viva Gos Vegas’ registry-style ceremony or a more grand celebration, City Hall Registry offers something for everyone,” Merillo said.

“Couples today are looking for ways to celebrate their love in their own way, without the pressure and costs of traditional vwedding norms.

“Our new on-the-steps of City Hall style wedding services are designed to meet the growing demand by providing a downscaled alternative to the traditional wedding – in a truly

iconic venue.”

The venue is located beside Lyons Den, in the iconic heritage-listed RH Creighton building in the heart of Gosford’s Mann St.

Built in 1938, the purposebuilt funeral parlour provides the perfect instagram-worthy backdrop including a grand central arch, lead-glazed windows and a trio of romantic balconettes.

“We wanted a space that is different from anything else out there – a place where couples could get hitched, have fun,

and let loose while still having a beautiful and memorable wedding ceremony,” Merillo said.

“We’re excited to join Lyons Den and offer a new type of wedding experience here on the Central Coast that is all about looking after couples and taking away the overwhelming stress so all that the day is all about having fun and making memories.

“Let’s put the love back into our CBD- Viva Gos Vegas style!”

relationship with existing partners and invite new businesses and groups to further enhance this celebration of farms, food, friends and fun while helping grow year-round tourism to the hinterland.”

Complete an Expression of Interest online by Friday, September 1, at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/EOI

Source: Central Coast Council

Source: City Hall Registry

Heritage backdrop ideal for wedding photos | Photo: Brooke Biro

Coast Shelter named Wyong business of the year

Coast Shelter has been named Business of the Year at the 2023 Business Wyong Awards.

Held on Friday, July 29, at Wyong Race Club, the awards celebrated exceptional business achievements in the northern growth corridor.

Organisers hailed the awards night, held at Wyong Race Club, as a “wonderful celebration”.

Taking out the top gong as Business of the Year was Coast Shelter, which was also named Outstanding Community Organisation.

Coast Shelter CEO Michael Starr said it was special to the entire team to be acknowledged by thecommunity.

“It gives us great encouragement to know we have support from local business leaders and community members in our mission to end homelessness and domestic violence on the Central Coast,” he said.

Marketing and Communications Manager, Erin Maxwell, said Coast Shelter staff were incredibly proud to have won the Business of the Year award.

“Our entire team at Coast

Shelter really do just get on with the job at hand, so winning an award like Business of the Year is the perfect opportunity to stop and reflect on how much progress we’ve made in recent years,” she said.

Other category winners were: Outstanding Employee –Thomas Spooner – Green Aspect Consulting; Outstanding Business Leader – Shaun Mielekamp – Central Coast Mariners; Excellence In Sustainability – Iris Lodge Alpacas; Outstanding Start Up – NeuroKind; Excellence In Micro Business – 5th Element digital transformation; Excellence In Small Business – Lift3 Central Coast; Excellence

In Large Business – The Art House; and Business Wyong Kevin Faulks Award – Paul Levick.

Co-founders Matthew Craig and Jaime Wroe were delighted when NeuroKind took out theTaking out the Start Up of the Year award.

NeuroKind is making remarkable strides in the field of psychology services as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity.

Craig and Wroe accepted the award on behalf of their team, highlighting the efforts of all who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

“This accomplishment stands as a testament to the relentless

dedication, passion, and significant contributions from every member of the NeuroKind family,” they said.

Amidst the challenges of the current economic state, NeuroKind, along with other local businesses, has shown resilience, adaptability and an unwavering commitment to its mission.

It was founded on the concept of embracing brain differences and empowering neurodiversity through understanding and support.

It offers specialised, evidence-based and empathetic psychology services for neurodivergent individuals, aiming to help

them discover their strengths, connect with their true selves, and belong to a caring community.

“Variations in the way we process information should never be treated as a deficit, but rather a unique part of our identity that makes us who we are,” Wroe, who is a psychologist, said.

“We work collaboratively with our clients to encourage autonomy and self-advocacy, where we provide the tools for them to build their neurodivergent identity, identify their specific needs and advocate for their required accommodations.

“Every single brain is valuable

Boost for female business leaders

Female led business startups in the region will have the opportunity to turbocharge their start-up thanks to a free Female Founders Program to be run by the University of Newcastle’s I2N.

The program, which opened for applications on August 1, will support a minimum of 10 female-led start-ups from the Hunter and Central Coast regions with training workshops, tailored mentoring and support through I2N’s network.

Otherwise known as the Integrated Innovation Network, the I2N network aims to connect innovators and entrepreneurs with the community, customers, coaching and capital.

Lisa Winn

Assistant Director of I2Nh Siobhan Curran said the program, supported by the NSW Government, will help women who are currently underrepresented in the entrepreneurial space to accelerate their innovation and learn the skills to create a successful start-up idea.

“Around 32 per cent of our

I2N program participants are female founded businesses,” Curran said.

“While this sits above the industry average of 20 per cent, we want to see this figure rise and level the playing field for female innovators and entrepreneurs in the region.

“It’s a great opportunity for local women who have that spark of an idea to give their for- profit or social enterprise start-up a boost and see where it can take them.”

Participants will take part in workshops to help them to understand their value proposition and the market for their business.

They will learn how to get traction as a start-up and gain the business skills to help them model cash flow projections

and structure their business as it grows – critical skills for a new business venture.

“The Female Founders Program will boost the volume of female led businesses in our regional ecosystem, creating positive economic and social impact.”

Pro-Vice Chancellor Industry and Engagement, Warwick Dawson, said the university’s role was uniquely positioned to support, connect and grow innovation in the region.

“Our university, through I2N, is incredibly proud to facilitate the Female Founders Program, which provides a boost to the volume of female led businesses in our regional ecosystem,” Dawson said.

“The Female Founders Program will help grow a

vibrant and connected innovation ecosystem that will generate mutually beneficial relationships between entrepreneurs, innovators and the people who support them.”

Central Coast based start-up founder, Lisa Winn, is a previous participant in Female Founders Program.

She created Ihydrate, a saliva-based personal hydration test that replaces intrusive blood or urine tests, and explained how the program helped her to build her network and develop a start-up mindset to help her business idea succeed.

“It’s different when it’s your own endeavour, it’s harder to be objective, so you need to surround yourself with a network of people that

and worthy of love and respect – which is what NeuroKind strives to embody.”

Craig said the award strengthened the company’s belief that it is on the right path.

“Our deepest gratitude goes to our outstanding team of associates, amazing partners and, most importantly, our trusting clients who are at the core of our mission,” he said.

He said the award was not just a celebration of NeuroKind’s accomplishments but also a symbol of the Wyong community’s commitment to support businesses that positively impact society.

Terry Collins

understand where you’re at and where you’re going,” she said.

“I had so many ‘ah-ha’ moments throughout the program, things I may have encountered in my corporate career but have a completely different application in startup.

“The advice I’ve had and connections I’ve made through this program have been incredible.”

Applications are now open with the program commencing in October.

Women who are interested in joining can apply now by visiting www.newcastle.edu. au/ffp

Source: University of Newcastle

Co-founders Matthew Craig and Jaime Wroe of NeuroKind with their award The team from Coast Shelter with Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong Coast David Harris

Central Coast Council’s Façade Improvement Support program opens on September 1 and aims to provide businesses and commercial property owners with the opportunity to access up to $5000 to enhance their building facades and improve accessibility.

To increase chances of funding success, Council is hosting two free information sessions this month to provide information on program guidelines, eligibility and timeframes.

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the support program piloted in November

Jazzing up business facades

last year was a success and will now include two additional town centres.

“Last year we saw 35 businesses and commercial property owners apply for support through this program, with 30 of these applications recommended,” she said.

“Due to its popularity, this year we’re expanding the program to include two more town centres, Terrigal and Woy Woy alongside Wyong, Toukley, The Entrance and Gosford.

“This program aims to help local businesses to enhance their offering and accessibility to assist with the revitalisation of our local town centres.

“By improving shopfront

accessibility and aesthetics we hope this will support local businesses in attracting visitors to spend locally and contribute to our economy.

“The dollar-for-dollar matched funding is provided for the cost of works, labour and materials to a maximum value of $5000 per

property in eligible town centres. This year’s program will open with $150,000 in available funding.

Smith said project ideas don’t have to be costly to make a large impact.

“Ideas can be big or small and can include, painting, signage,

updated awnings, installation of access ramps and more,” she said.

Administrator Rik Hart said Council’s Façade Improvement Support Program was a success in 2022, with the program contributing to the revitalisation of town centres.

“I’m pleased to see the program is continuing to support the improved amenity of our town centres, with the addition of Terrigal and Woy Woy to this year’s program,” he said.

“This funding is a great opportunity to support many local businesses while attracting more visitors to our beautiful region.”

Information sessions will be

Good Times come to Hotel Gosford

Hotel Gosford unveiled its new-energy party brand, Gossy Good Times, at a special launch event on July 29.

Hotel owner Jordan Harris said the event was a huge success, with the venue reaching capacity from 9pm.

“The party atmosphere was taken to the next level with attendees enjoying a full venue fit-out, including vibrant

2023

dancers, eye-catching signage, electrifying visuals and an aerialist show above the dance floor,” he said.

“We’re thrilled to see the overwhelming response to our first event.

“The launch of Gossy Good Times marks the beginning of an exciting new era of parties at Hotel Gosford.

“A few years in the making, we can’t wait to unveil our next

held on: Tuesday, August 15, from 5.30pm at Wyong Administration Building, 2 Hely St, Wyong; and Wednesday, August 16, from 5.30pm at Laycock St Community Theatre. The program opens for applications on September 1 and closes at midnight on September 30.

To register for an information session, review the funding guidelines and apply search Façade Improvement Support Program at centralcoast.nsw. gov.au

Source: Central Coast Council

themed party in the coming weeks.”

Gossy Good Times will take over Hotel Gosford every Friday and Saturday night from 9pm, with a line-up of marquee events scheduled throughout the year.

Keep updated on the hotel’s website.

Source: Hotel Gosford

Towards better water and sewer outcomes

To help improve Central Coast Council’s water and sewer services, a new water and sewer Customer Charter has been developed in partnership with the community.

A Customer Complaints Management Framework has also been developed to complement the charter, with a focus on better outcomes for customers.

The new management framework has been on public exhibition since July 27 through the Council’s Your Voice Our Coast website for 28 days as part of the final stages of an extensive community engagement program.

Council’s Director Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said the charter had been developed with the community based on the needs of the community.

The easy-to-read documents include a Customer Charter Summary and Council’s Water and Sewer Complaints Management Framework for prioritising and responding to customers.

“We value the community’s engagement with Council in developing these new mutual commitments for water and sewer services as we deliver on our promise to listen to our customers,” Loader said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the Customer Charter and Customer Complaints

Management Framework demonstrated Council’s continued commitment to its customers and operating in the best interest of the whole community.

“This is a collaborative effort, and Council values the opportunity to hear directly from the Central Coast community,” he said.

“I encourage community members to offer their feedback in the final stages of this project.”

Customers have until Wednesday, August 23, to give their feedback at yourvoice ourcoast.com/communitycharter

Source: Central Coast Council

Ideas to brighten up building fronts can be big or small

Sewer upgrades underway in Gosford

Five questions to ask yourself when buying a car

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

You’re ready to find a new set of wheels, but make sure you tick off these important considerations before you put down your money.

1. What is my budget?

Set yourself a firm budget before you start shopping for a car, whether it’s new or used.

This will help cut down the list of potential matches, save time and stop you overspending.

2. What type of vehicle do I need?

There's a lot to choose from, so it’s worth thinking about what you’ll use it for, where you’ll mainly drive it and what features are

important to you – not just whether it’s got mag wheels or a smartphone hook-up, but how big, how economical and how capable you need it to be.

3. How safe is it?

Your safety is important, right?

Ditto that of your passengers and even outsiders you might come into contact with.

So check the independent expert safety ratings on the ANCAP or “How Safe Is Your Car?” websites and accept nothing less than five stars, while for older cars, there’s the Used Car Safety Ratings by Monash University’s Accident Research Centre.

On the car itself, as a bare

Put extra cash into your pocket

If you have unloved or unused belongings – anything from clothing to investments – that could be turned into cash, here are a few ideas to beef up your bank balance.

• Trash can be treasure

According to eBay, there can be big money in selling collectibles, with the favourites being coins, toys and even sneakers.

Old or unregistered cars can also be a source of extra money.

eBay Australia’s managing director, David Ramadge, adds that “motorheads looking for rare car parts” are willing to part with hard cash for the right find.

It could be time to raid the kids’

toy cupboard, with trading cards and LEGO sets among the serious money spinners.

The Pokémon 2016 Evolutions Booster Box can sell for $1200.

LEGO sets are commanding big bucks, with the Grand Carousel 10196 set fetching up to $2100.

Sell unwanted clothing

Other eBay research shows we each own clothing and accessories worth an average of $3860, rising to $8003 among Gen Z.

Despite having wardrobes worth thousands, Australians typically wear less than two-thirds of their clothes.

That leaves us collectively sitting on $29 billion worth of

minimum, make sure it has electronic stability control (ESC), anti-lock brakes (ABS), a reversing camera, as many airbags as possible (say, four or six) and, if garments that could be traded for cash. eBay says online sellers make an average of $1231 selling pre-loved clothes.

If you have a few designer labels tucked in the closet, the price tags can be far higher – a second-hand Chanel tweed jacket sold online last year for $5500.

your budget permits, autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

4. What will it cost to run?

A high-maintenance chariot – like

• Cash in investments

If you’re strapped for cash, it can be tempting to sell investments, such as shares or exchange traded funds (ETFs).

It’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, though.

While offloading investments can bump up your bank account, it’s likely to be a short-term hit. It can mean missing out on future dividends and fund distributions – both of which can be lightly taxed.

On the flipside, selling can be an opportunity to cash in on gains.

"Over the past three to six months we have seen a huge comeback in some market sectors,” says Glen Hare, financial adviser and founder of Fox & Hare.

“Selling today can let you take advantage of that win, especially

a sophisticated European luxury car or a thirsty 4x4 ute or SUV –will eat into your bank balance. Nothing wrong with something basic, which you’ll come to love

as the market is volatile and the gains could be eroded quickly.”

Selling investments can also be part of a broader strategy.

“If you’re part of a couple, selling an investment can be an opportunity to buy back into the market and hold the investment in the name of the lower income earner,” he says.

There is another key issue to consider.

If the value of your investment has increased, there could be tax implications.

“You may, for example, get $10,000 in cash by selling your investment today, but you could lose some of that by paying capital gains tax tomorrow.”

As capital gains tax is based on your personal marginal tax rate, Hare suggests it may be worth

for its all-round goodness and its lower insurance, service and repair costs.

Also, if it's a popular model replacement parts should be affordable and in good supply.

5. How reliable is it?

It’s a great question that’s hard to answer, but asking around and doing some easy internet stalking can help you avoid buying a car with lots of previous owners. By all means, listen to your mates whinge about their cars and dive into online forums.

But don’t get too jaded, and put faith into trusted sources, such as Carsales’s “Buying a Used Car” library and the federal government’s Vehicle Recalls website (vehiclerecalls.gov.au), which will tell you what’s gone wrong and what should have now been fixed on the car you’re keen to buy.

CARSALES.COM.AU

holding off selling an investment if your marginal rate is likely to be lower in the future.

This could apply, for instance, if you plan to take parental leave next financial year.

There are other timing aspects to think about.

A 50% capital gains tax discount is normally available if you have held an investment for 12 months or more.

However, if you’re likely to lose money on the sale of an investment, the capital loss can only be offset against capital gains. It can’t be used to reduce assessable income in the way that work-related deductions can.

On the plus side, there is no time limit on how long capital losses can be carried forward.

NICOLA FIELD

What did Budgewoi and Long Jetty look like 100 years ago?

The two Central Coast suburbs are among 400 regional towns across the state to have their historic plans digitised and made available on the State Library of NSW’s website.

The library’s maps expert Maggie Patton said subdivision plans were an “absolute goldmine” for genealogists and local historians.

“They allow us to place ourselves in the past — on a street, in a town, where we once lived, where our ancestors established themselves,” she said.

Historic plans give a glimpse of the past

“What’s more, they are filled with fascinating details like property prices, town descriptions and sometimes a photograph.”

Patton said subdivision plans were ephemeral items, usually discarded once a development site was sold.

“Luckily, the State Library has acquired and preserved these 100-year-old plans for the people of NSW and beyond to access and use,” she said.

Dating from as early as the 1880s up to the 1930s, the plans were produced by real estate agents and auctioneers to advertise new subdivisions and land sales.

They range from hand-drawn

surveyors’ plans to beautifully designed colour posters.

“They provide a fascinating visual record of how your town was imagined by town planners of the past, and how it has developed and expanded over time,” Patton said.

“Some of the plans are annotated with sales figures, and you can see how public transport or access to shops, parks and local attractions influenced the popularity of a town.

“Estate agents used creative marketing strategies to entice people to regional locations by promoting special events with free transport, refreshments or entertainment for the kids.”

For the past 10 years the State Library has been progressively digitising its collection of 40,000 plus subdivision plans of suburban and regional NSW with funding support from the NSW Government.

They are now publicly available on the library’s website with residents able to order a print of their suburb.

To order a print, search your suburb name at sl.nsw.gov.au/ subdivision, copy the link and send an enquiry to order your print at library.shop@sl.nsw. gov.au.

Pay rise for ADSSI staff

Hunter and Central Coast home care and disability group ADSSI Limited is set to lift the wages of its aged care and disability support workers following The Fair Work Commission’s recent decision to increase minimum wages by 15 per cent for only some eligible aged care workers.

Approved by their Board of Directors last week, the group said the decision is testament to the organisation’s support of workers’ exceptional work and a show of appreciation for their contributions.

“As an organisation that

delivers home care services for both disability and aged care, we are incredibly proud of all our support workers and their positive impact on the lives of our clients and the broader community,” ADSSI Limited CEO Jenni Allan said.

“Their dedication, compassion, and professionalism embody the core values of ADSSI, and it is our honour to reward their efforts with this well-deserved pay raise.”

Earlier this year, the Fair Work Commission increased minimum wages by 15 per cent for some aged care sector

workers covered by specific awards.

The Federal Government then committed to fully fund the wage increase for the eligible aged care workers from July 1.

“ADSSI has taken it one step further and extended the

increases to our disability support workers as well as ensuring equitable pay for all our support workers whether they are delivering services funded under the Home Care Packages (HCP) or the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP),” Allan said.

“This is something we are proud of and consider it an investment in the future of our already hard-working support worker teams.

“Eligible nurses also received the 15 per cent increase under the Fair Work Commission’s increases.

“ADSSI also extended the increase to invest in our allied health staff including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and allied health assistants,by recognising them with a 10 per cent pay rise.”

ADSSI Limited is a prominent home care and disability

employer offering many support worker opportunities across the Hunter and Central Coast.

Among other benefits, it offers flexible work, paid time between clients and travel reimbursements and prioritises staff well-being.

Additionally, as a not-forprofit organisation, it provides salary packaging.

For more information on careers at ADSSI or to view current positions vacant, visit www.adssilimited.com.au/ careers

Source: ADSSI

New location for Services Australia at The Entrance

PANEL BEATER

We are looking for a fully qualified and experienced panel beater to join the team in a multi dealer approved shop that has stood the test of time in Hornsby.

The centre has a contemporary layout

The Entrance community can now access Centrelink and Medicare services in a newly relocated Services Australia service centre.

The new service centre, which opened on July 31, is located 190m from the previous site and offers a contemporary layout and facilities.

Services Australia General Manager Hank Jongen said residents will benefit from the new state-of-the-art service centre, which has been designed with the customers’ needs front of mind.

“We’ve tailored our services to better meet people’s circumstances,” he said.

“Customers who need extra support accessing and using their myGov online account or

Centrelink online account will benefit from digital coaching sessions.

“Customers can book these free sessions either at the service centre or by calling their regular payment line.

“For people who like to talk to a staff member at a time that works for them, they can also book an appointment in the office or by calling their regular payment line.”

The new service centre, located at 175 The Entrance Rd, is easily accessible by public transport and has ample parking.

The Entrance Service Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm.

Source: Services Australia

You must be fully qualified with a NSW Trades Licence and have first class attention to detail with good organisational skills and a “quality only” approach to work standards.

Valuable skills and attributes include:

• Speed

• Quality

• A keen eye for detail and finish

• Work well under pressure

• Weekend work available

As you will have direct contact others in the team, it’s important that you have good communication skills and an approachable manner.

Job Type: Permanent Full Time

Salary: Competitive salary

Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 to 4pm

Contact: info@srautobody.com.au

Phone: (02) 9476 2558

Source: NSW Government Historic plan of the Halekulani Estate at Budgewoi

Upgrade for Aspect Central Coast school

Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) celebrated new facilities at its Aspect Central Coast Senior College in Terrigal with an opening event on July 20.

The school teaches an autism-specific tailored curriculum, with huge support from the local community.

The Central Coast Senior Campus has seen a refurbishment of all existing classrooms, plus the addition of two new classrooms, all incorporating autism-specific design improvements.

There is also a new outside undercover recreational area for the students, ancillary facilities have been renovated and the carpark has been upgraded.

With 36 enrolled high school students, the substantial renovation provides a supportive learning environment where essential life skills including literacy, numeracy, social and emotional development are taught, along with core NSW curriculum outcomes in a hands-on, strength-centred individual way.

Principal Mark Rudd said the

refurbishment was very exciting.

“With a focus on personalised learning and a nurturing community, our senior college will provide a supportive environment where our students can flourish academically, develop their unique strengths and unlock their different brilliant potential,” he said.

“Our school’s ability to expand in so many ways is a testament to the unwavering support of our community.”

The school expressed thanks to: Waratah Education Foundation, VivCourt,

CompNow and Financial Reporting Specialists (FRS) who funded a coffee van enabling students to develop skills invaluable for postschool opportunities; Pinoak Fund for contributing to a trip of a lifetime for many of the senior students; Sargents Charity for providing funding for the school’s work education and employment skill program; Apex Foundation for donating funds for an outdoor exercise area and lawnmowing program; and the CommBank Staff Foundation for funding a vegetable garden set up.

“Our teachers are thrilled to

see students mature in their learning but also to watch their confidence grow as they step up to new challenges through the array of co-curricular experiences available,” Rudd said.

“For our younger students in Years K–4, Aspect’s educational focus strongly supports students’ social and emotional development and communication needs, based around their strengths; while for our students in Years 5-10 we focus on growing greater independence and building a pathway to post-school opportunities, that may include

further education and employment.

“It certainly takes a village, and Aspect Central Coast School is fortunate to have fostered genuine relationships with our community, teachers and families, enabling us to nurture the gifts and aspirations of our exceptional students.”

Student Hannah started at the school in 2020.

She said her favourite space at the school was the chillout room, where she enjoys hanging out on the lounge and beanbags and having some quiet time to relax.

“The teachers are very

helpful, more than other schools,” she said.

“They’ll give you more help if you need it and make everything easier for us.

“I’m sad that next year will be my last year; I just really like it here.

“We get lots of good opportunities in work education and agriculture and it’s always so nice here.”

For more information email lcooper@autismspectrum.org. au

Source: Aspect Central Coast Senior College

Science and engineering challenge sharpens young minds

The St Edward’s College Hall in East Gosford was abuzz with activity and sizzling with brainpower over two days recently as more than 400 Year 9 and 10 students from 14 Central Coast colleges and schools competed in the 23rd Science and Engineering Challenge.

The nationwide outreach program, which began on the Central Coast with Newcastle University and Gosford Rotary Club in 2000, inspires school students to consider a future in STEM.

It is now delivered through 30 universities and 120 rotary clubs and annually introduces over 30,000 students to practical, hands-on applications of STEM through eight design-and-build activities.

Students work in teams to

solve real-world science, technology, engineering and mathematics challenges, with a minimum of introduction and theory.

They explore scientific principles for themselves rather than being guided to a predetermined answer.

Challenges include building

an earthquake resistant tower, optimising networks for highspeed rail, designing and building a load-bearing bridge, building a buggy to transport loads over undulating Martian terrain and sending encrypted messages with light.

Students were presented with a range of challenges

The Challenge days foster teamwork, build problem solving and collaboration skills, and provide insights into future STEM careers to support the workforce needs of the future.

Sponsored by the NSW Government Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer, the event was attended by Federal

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch.

Project co-ordinator Barry Henwood, from Gosford Rotary Club, said the event was another great success story.

“Students had so much fun with each challenge and their feedback was really positive

and enthusiastic,” he said.

Henwood thanked major sponsor Star Scientific, a research facility and inventor of the HERO catalytic converter at Berkely Vale, the Combined Rotary Clubs of the Central Coast, which provided 63 volunteers over the two days, and St Edwards College for the free use of the hall and lunch and morning tea for volunteers and visiting teachers.

The overall winner, McKillop Catholic College won eight challenges on day one and on the second day Gosford High School was victorious.

McKillop Catholic College had the higher daily score, so it goes through to represent the Central Coast in the state finals in Newcastle in August.

Source: Combined Rotary Clubs of the Central Coast

Aspect Chief Education Officer Maryanne Gosling cutting the ribbon at the event Aspect student Hannah

Students from 14 Central Coast colleges and schools took part in the event

Lake Haven headspace expands

An upgraded and expanded service is now available for young people across the Central Coast following the official opening on July 26 of headspace Lake Haven as a full centre.

The service, originally funded as a three-day-week satellite site in 2015, recently received additional funding to upgrade to a full headspace centre.

Since its opening in 2015, headspace Lake Haven has provided over 17,500 occasions of service to more than 4,500 young people.

The enhancement will allow young people to access therapy indoors or in the outdoor therapy garden.

Among those who advocated for the centre’s expansion included Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Member for Dobell Emma McBride, who attended the official opening.

“The mental health of young people is a priority for the Australian Government,” McBride said.

“Support as early as possible can make all the difference for young people who are struggling.

“Making sure support is available close to home is vital.

‘I encourage young people to visit headspace Lake Haven for support with their mental health and wellbeing.”

Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (PHN) CEO Richard Nankervis said there has been an increased awareness and investment in youth mental health.

“The expansion of the headspace Lake Haven centre is the culmination of effective and ongoing collaboration between all levels of

government, the local community and stakeholders over the past eight years,” he said.

“We’re thrilled to see the service expand the provision of mental health support for young people in Lake Haven and the surrounding areas.”

Speaking at the official opening, headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said headspace wants all young people to have access to youth friendly mental health services no matter where they live.

“Young people are resilient and, given the right tools and

support, they can get through tough times,” he said.

“headspace Lake Haven has successfully delivered services to young people in this area as a satellite and we know the people in this community value headspace.

“This new centre will provide young people and their families with the opportunity to receive support in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

“We are especially excited to welcome the community into the new outdoor therapy space, named Gawal Matjarr, meaning Many Hands in the language of

the Awaba people.

“The space was co-designed and created by local Aboriginal Elders, young people, Central Coast Council, the headspace team and Central Coast Local Health District staff.”

A member of the headspace Gosford, Lake Haven and Wyong Youth Reference Group said the outdoor therapy space would be of special benefit.

“I think this will be really empowering for young people like me who haven’t often been given the chance to take action and make decisions about our own roads to recovery,” the

Tackling cancer one step at a time

In 2022, an average of 440 Australians were diagnosed with cancer each day and Central Coast emergency doctor Ash Bowden, also known as Doctor Do More, is calling on Coasties to help tackle the statistic one step at a time.

Bowden’s annual step challenge, #MoveAgainstCancer, encourages participants to join up in teams and track their steps throughout September, improving their own health and raising money for Cancer Council at the same time.

He said improving step count not only benefits physical and

mental health, but exercise is shown to lower a person’s risk of 13 types of cancer, some more than a 20 per cent, including colon, breast, endometrial, oesophageal, liver, lung, stomach, kidney, head and neck, rectal and bladder cancers.

“Moving more has unbelievable benefits on your health – reduced risk of cancers, reduced risk of cardiorespiratory disease, improved cognition and more,” he said.

“Importantly, it has a huge impact on our mental health, something we all need right now.

“The pandemic and current

financial climate have caused much stress and anxiety.

“With rising interest rates, people tend to cut ‘luxury’

spending and exercise is often seen as this.

“Getting outside and staying active can safeguard our

mental health, helping us to stay positive as we move forward.”

Cancer Council suggests up to one hour of moderate activity each day, such as a brisk walk, can reduce many cancer risk factors.

“It may seem like a small change, but it can have a profound impact on all aspects of cancer, from prevention to tolerating treatment to survivorship,” Bowden said.

#MoveAgainstCancer 2023 is the fourth annual step challenge organised by Bowden, who has so far raised over $165,000 and involved more than 2,000 people.

He is hoping participation this

member said.

“I believe young people will be very impressed with either option of spending their time in the indoor and/or the outdoor space.”

For more information about headspace Lake Haven visit headspace Lake Haven details: headspace Lake Haven | Youth Mental Health Centre & Services

For more information about headspace visit: www. headspace.org.au

Source: PHN

year will be the most it has ever been.

“It’s such a simple, achievable challenge for people to participate in,” he said.

All money raised by participants throughout the challenge will go to Cancer Council to ensure nobody faces a cancer diagnosis alone.

The challenge starts on Wednesday, September 1, and will run to Thursday, September 30, supported by Smile On Clinics and Industree Group Australia.

Register for #MoveAgainst Cancer at do-more.live/move againstcancer2023

Source: Cancer Council

The launch of expanded headspace services at Lake Haven Member for Dobell Emma McBride speaking at the launch

Ash Bowden is urging Coasties to step out against cancer

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid is urging Central Coast residents to have regular heart checks with 1.4 million Australians having a high chance of having a heart attack or stroke in the next five years.

Reid, who is a doctor, said many people were unaware they were at risk.

“There are many ways to reduce your chances of a heart attack or stroke, and your local GP can provide you with the best advice.

Cycling to encourage organ donation

Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) Donation Specialist Coordinator Yoni Hope-Hodgetts will ride more than 500km during Donate Life Week (July 2330) to emphasise the importance of becoming an organ donor.

She will ride in honour of the 71 people from the Central Coast who have become donors since CCLHD introduced its Organ Donation Service in 2009.

Hope-Hodgetts said there are

currently around 1,800 people on the organ waitlist.

This includes around 70 people waiting for a life-saving heart and 1,450 people waiting for a kidney.

“We know 80 per cent of Australians aged 16 and over support organ and tissue donation— yet only seven million are actually registered,” she said.

“Once you register it is important to let your family know of your decision.

“They will always be asked to support your decision before organ donation goes ahead.

“It is easier for a family to make a decision when they know the wishes of their loved one.

“Many of the families that I look after tell me that upholding the wishes of their loved one and helping other people provided them with solace during a very difficult time.

“I will spend each ride reflecting on each donor and thinking of their family who so

Look after your heart health says Reid

“Coronary artery disease is one of the underlying causes of heart disease, which is Australia’s number one cause of death.

“Coronary artery disease is caused when the arteries leading to the heart become hardened or narrow.

“To make sure you’re not at risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke, a simple visit to your local GP for a twenty-minute heart health check will give you a better understanding.

“It is also important to be aware of the modifiable and

non-modifiable risk factors that lead to heart disease, including your diet, exercise, whether you smoke or how frequently you drink alcohol, your weight, and family medical history.”

Reid said GPs could help patients manage factors that might lead to heart disease.

“If you are aged 45 and over, or 30 and over if you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background, you are encouraged to book a heart health check today,” he said.

Reid supported the

HeartScreen Australia pop-up stall at Erina Fair which provided free heart health checks on Thursday, June 29.

To learn more about heart health checks, visit: https:// www.heartfoundation.org.au/ heart-health-education/hearthealth-checks

To book a heart health check, contact your local GP to make an appointment.

generously said yes to organ donation at such a difficult time in their lives.”

Hope-Hodgetts said she hoped her ride would encourage people to think about organ donation, make a decision and then register their decision.

It takes a minute to register to be a donor at donatelife.gov.au or with three taps in your Medicare app.

Source: CCLHD

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid having a heart health check at Erina recently

Yoni Hope-Hodgetts will cycle more than 500km

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

Pet Safe Gardens

How do you keep pets safe in our gardens?

It can be hard to create a beautiful, bountiful garden filled with all the things our heart desires when we share our homes with curious cats and digging dogs, but it can be done with a little additional consideration and care.

Careful placement of toxic plants or foregoing them all together, while providing a wildlife-safe garden are obviously top of the list but also, what does your pet need from your garden?

A secure fence, run or enclosure, a warm, dry and shaded area to play and rest in and always access to water and food too if you are away for longer periods of time.

On that note, if you are to be away, you pet needs toys to help keep them occupied.

Toxic Plants

All plants are natural, that does not mean they are safe for our pet friends or even us for that matter.

This list is not at all definitive, but it contains a few of plants that are popular and dangerous. Before leaving any plant within reach of your pets, check it out via your local nursery or research using reliable internet sources.

The RSPCA recommends this website to cross check plants: www.petpoisonhelpline.com/ poisons/

There are lots of plants that fall into the mildly or moderately toxic category and these will generally cause digestive issues and skin problems, the following popular plants will cause death so should not be planted around pet areas.

Again, this is a tiny list and one to get your knowledge base started when selecting or creating a pet friendly garden.

Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum), Begonia (Begonia spp.), Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii), Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum), Elephant Ear (Colocasia spp.), Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrate), Painted Leaves (Euphorbia

cyathophora), especially to dogs: Grapes (Vitis vinifera), especially to cats: Lilies (Lilium spp.).

There is such a thing as a well-behaved pot plant.

Here are a few tried and true, easy to grow plants that will not only thrive indoors but will also pose no threat to your animal friends.

Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus),Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), Cast-Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior), Golden Cane Palm (Dypsis lutescens), Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum).

Ticks in the Garden

As ticks are a problem on the Central Coast, here are a few plants that you may consider adding to your garden as they are known to deter ticks.

These include rosemary, roses, lemon balm, sage, sunflowers, rose geranium and garlic.

If your pet does get bitten, act fast as this is a major concern. A pet that has been bitten by

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

a paralysis tick will usually vomit, you will notice a change in bark or cry, they become wobbly in the back legs then this moves forward in the body and breathing changes.

There is no time to lose, and your pet needs immediate, urgent medical attention. Take them straight to the vet even if you are unsure.

Other Insect Bites

Most insect bites will only cause localised swelling and although you must watch your pet for any additional signs that could indicate deeper problems, your pet usually only needs rest until the reaction settles down.

Sally said, “You will find that bees and wasps will cause a reaction that makes your dog look like they have been in the fighting ring with Mike Tyson with a big swollen eye or jaw. They may also have lumps all over their body that are itchy. Although it looks distressing, it just takes time for the swelling to go down.

If you have an event to share contact: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

Creating Backyard Frog Habitats - 1:30pm, Saturday 12th August Philip House, 21 Old Mt Penang Road, Kariong. $3 entry, includes lucky door prize.

Sam Willis has a background in Environmental Science and Education, is the CEO of the Community Environment Network (CEN) on the Central Coast and is the Presenter at the Australian Plants SocietyCentral Coast group’s next meeting where we’ll be shown how to set up a frog friendly garden habitat and how to identify different frogs by their calls.

We will also learn how to monitor frogs by becoming citizen scientists in our local area. Frog pond friendly plants also on sale.

More info - www.austplants.com.au/Central-Coast-Events

Gardens Hosts for Central Coast Edible Garden Trail 2023

Would you like to be a Garden Host for the 2023 Central Coast Edible Garden Trail on October 21+22? They would love to hear from you!

Do you have any friends you would like to put forward as Garden Hosts this year - we’re looking for more lovely gardens to join us.

Please send recommendations to: ediblegardentrail@permaculturecc.org.au

For more information visit: centralcoastediblegardentrail.org.au

GARDENING PLANNER

You can plant the following now: culinary herbs, artichoke suckers, asparagus crowns, beetroot, broad beans, cabbages, carrots, cress, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard, onions, parsnip, peas, potatoes, rhubarb crowns, silverbeet, African marigold, delphinium, dianthus, English daisy, gloxinia, gypsophilia, mignonette, spider flower, statice.

Cheralyn is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’

8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3

contact@cheralyndarcey.com

cheralyn.darcey

cheralyn

These types of stings don’t usually turn into breathing problems.

Pets often get bitten by ants on their feet and this can cause lumps and you will see them chewing their paws as they are itchy and sore.” Unless your pet is having other symptoms, they will be ok.

On this point I had to ask Sally if it was true that dogs and cats are immune to Funnel Webs bites and it is true!

She told me that it was 100% correct!

The venom is only a problem for primates and that all other animals neutralise the toxin in their systems.

Caring for Garden Visitors

We are surrounded on the Central Coast by an abundance of native flora and fauna and that also means that our gardens are habitats for creatures that we may find in distress.

While it’s important to care for our pets we also need to be careful our pets don’t

harm garden visitors.

Cats need to be indoor pets unless you can build an enclose run for them or take them out on a lead.

Finding a baby bird on the ground in our garden is something that may occur in the coming Spring months. Leave it for an hour but watch closely as it may simply be in training and a little slow on taking flight.

If, however it appears in distress, injured or is still there for more than hour, you need to ring Wildlife ARK for assistance. However, a fallen bird’s nest with chicks/eggs needs the help of wildlife carers.

You can’t just put it back in the tree as it won’t be secure, and the parents will often be either gone or no longer interested in the nest.

Wildlife ARK is a Central Coast group that is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help rescue and look after our precious wildlife. They can be contacted on 4325 0666.

WINTER SPECIAL 15% off all plants only! (not including items already on sale)

4362 2236

24 Burns Road, Ourimbah

WITH CHERALYN DARCEY

Civic reception to honour Mariners

A civic reception is to be held for the Central Coast Mariners at their season kick-off event on Saturday, August 5.

The public event, to be held at Leagues Club Park in Gosford, will be open to the whole community and will enable everyone to re-live the Mariners’ recent A-League Men’s Championship win.

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart said Council has been working closely with the Mariners to find a suitable date for the region to formally acknowledge the amazing success of the Mariners.

“This Civic Reception will be an opportunity for Council to

properly acknowledge the outstanding success of the Mariners, and for the Coast to

get behind the Mariners as they kick-off their next season – and I am sure they’ll be aiming for

back-to-back wins,” Hart said.

“The Mariners’ championship win sparked enormous joy and

pride across the Coast, and I’m pleased that Council is supporting the Mariners with an appropriate acknowledgement for their achievement that the whole community can get behind.”

Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp said the club was grateful to be honoured with a civic reception.

“This should be a great day with plenty on offer for members and fans to come along and thank the team for their awesome efforts,” he said.

“This will also be a great opportunity for us to showcase our upcoming A-League Women’s team under the backdrop of a fantastic FIFA

Split results for Crusaders youth teams

BASKETBALL

The Waratah Youth League Crusaders held their final home games for the season on Saturday, July 29, with mixed results.

Tipping things off first were the women, who faced off against the Maitland Mustangs – a team they had defeated convincingly back in April. Things started off well with co-captains Bronte Moore and Sammi McCubbin getting things going for the Crusaders out of the gate.

But in the second quarter Maitland began pulling away thanks to some well-placed shots from deep by Monique Rudder and Shannon Burton, with the score 27-35 going into half time.

The Crusaders corrected themselves on defense and began closing out, allowing just one three from Maitland in the third quarter.

The teams were neck and

neck with the Crusaders in the lead and looking set for the win with just three minutes remaining.

But the Mustangs scored at the 11th hour, snatching the victory 59-55.

The Crusaders remain tied for second spot on the table, with a chance to steal the minor premiership still on the cards as they take on the top-seeded Manly Sea Eagles in the final

round of the regular season on August 5.

The men started out red hot right off the tip against the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Spiders in the final matchup for the evening.

Back-to-back triples from team veterans Jamal Shoaib and Isaac Wooller gave the Crusaders a double-digit lead just five minutes into the game which set the tone for the rest

of the match.

The Crusaders’ energy on both ends of the floor was unmatched.

By the time the Spiders found their rhythm on offence, the lead was already out of hand.

The score was 49-24 coming out of the half.

The Crusaders gave their rookies a chance to shine and the crowd enjoyed some flashy finishes including a pair of

Women’s World Cup, all hosted in front of the spectacular Gosford waterfront that we call home.”

The civic reception will take place from 3pm on Saturday, August 5, at Leagues Club Park, Gosford.

Following the reception, the Mariners will host their season kick-off.

This will include a preview of both the men’s and women’s teams, player signings, family activities, food trucks and more.

The event will conclude at 6pm.

dunks from Haidyn Gunderson who contributed nine points off the bench.

It was the veteran trio of Shoaib, Wooller and captain Alex Bailey who held things down for the Crusaders, contributing a combined 51 points to the 93-50 victory. Nothing changes for the youth men on the ladder – they retain their third spot heading into their final match of the

regular season this Saturday, August 5.

They will travel to Blacktown to take on the Storm with first and second spots still up for grabs if they win.

It could also be a potentially historic night for Bailey, who sits on 468 points for the season – just 32 points shy of cracking 500 points.

This would be an incredibly rare feat as he would join some elite company but also a particularly difficult task as the Storm is among the most athletic teams in the league and especially dangerous in front of its home crowd.

The youth women travel to North Sydney to take on the Bears in their second last game of the regular season and while a win is not crucial, the game will be a true test of readiness with the Bears quite possibly being a playoffs matchup in the weeks to come.

Stefan Kataric

Ball in Government’s court over tennis club funding

Member for Terrigal Adam

Crouch has called on the State Labor Government to honour its election commitment of funding to Empire Bay Tennis Club, claiming the future of regional funding remains in limbo.

Crouch said that with the State Government remaining non-committal to regional programs like the Regional Seniors Travel Card and the Stronger Country Communities Fund, it needs to be held accountable for commitments on a local level.

“The ball is sitting in their court – that’s why I’m calling on the State Labor Government to

provide the promised $100,000 in funding to Empire Bay Tennis Club within this financial year,” Crouch said.

He said the tennis courts are a part of the fabric of the Empire Bay community and cannot afford to lose the much-needed funding.

“Our valuable community organisations need this funding, and that’s why I will continue to fight for not only this promised funding, but also all commitments promised by the State Government across the Central Coast,” he said.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the Government will deliver on all its commitments to the Central

Coast community, including funding to upgrade Empire Bay Tennis Courts.

“The funding of $100,000 is absolutely confirmed and will

be released some time after July 31, 2023,” he said.

“Unlike the previous government, which made many promises but kept very

few, we will be honouring our commitments.

“When we formed Government in March, we inherited the largest debt ever

passed on from one government to the next, with the state on track for a record $187.5B in debt.

“Incoming briefs have also uncovered a $7B black hole of unfunded programs.

“We’re undertaking a line-byline review of expenditure across the Government in order to restore fiscal responsibility to the NSW Budget.

“Of course, all the commitments need to go through a proper probity and approval process.

“Commitments that meet these guidelines will be announced in due course.”

Terry Collins

Youth men’s captain Alex Bailey Youth women’s co-captains Bronte Moore and Sammi McCubbin in action

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch with members of Empire Bay Tennis Club

Source: Central Coast Council

The civic reception will honour the Mariners’ recent A-League Championship win

Photo: Kye Santarossa - @santasmedia

Photo: Kye Santarossa - @santasmedia

Tightly bunched at top of ladder

RUGBY

The points table for the Central Coast Rugby comp has three teams closely bunched in the top three after Avoca Beach had a bye on July 29.

The match of the day at Ourimbah Rugby Park saw the Razorbacks outlast Gosford by 32-23 to cement third position on the competition ladder.

Gosford had the better start to take an early lead of 13-0 but the Razorbacks soon hit back to reduce the gap to 13-7.

Further scoring by both teams saw Gosford going to the halftime break leading by 2314.

But the second half saw the Razorbacks gain the ascendancy, crossing for a further two tries to snatch the victory.

Best players for the Razorbacks were flankers Rob Peden and Matt Martin, prop Jordan Clark, and No.8 Lachlan Peruch.

Gosford was best served by half back Ben Shelley, flanker Logan Campbell and lock Taylor Mildren.

Warnervale proved too strong for Hornsby in their clash at Mark Taylor Oval, running out victors by 47-12.

Warnervale opened the scoring with a converted try, followed by two more, to go into the half-time break with a handy 21-0 lead.

Hornsby responded quickly in the second half with two tries but Warnervale maintained the rage and went on to post a further 26 points in the second half.

Best players for Warnervale were No.8 Tevita Piukala,

flanker Kye Haslam and centre Zanian Theron.

Hornsby was best represented by fullback Jade Gillespie, No.8 Hamish Perring and flanker Cooper Davenport. Terrigal absolutely decimated The Lakes at The Haven Oval by 106-0.

It was all Terrigal from start to finish and The Lakes had no answer to the onslaught. After leading 40-0 at half time, Terrigal went on to record a further 66 points in the second half.

Best players for Terrigal were No.8 Salipopo Pamata, prop Antonio Cunha and winger Blake Irwin.

Irwin was able to cross for five personal tries in the match. Several players gave their all for The Lakes but none more than flankers Seth Olsen and Wiremu Pirini, and centres Iliesa Cama and Brad Hayes.

Due to the win, Terrigal will retain the Challenge Shield.

Lake Macquarie scored its first victory of the season, defeating Woy Woy 48-17 on

home turf at Boolaroo.

Lake Macquarie got away to a good start and scored four tries in the first half to Woy Woy’s one, going into the break with a 26-5 lead.

Woy Woy played some good rugby early in the second half, crossing quickly for three tries before Lake Macquarie had another burst and posted a further 22 points to seal the victory.

Best players for Lake Macquarie were Mark De Vries, winger Malu Fiu and halfback Matias Funo, who crossed for two tries.

Woy Woy’s best were prop Sione Fanua, flanker Casey Woodford, fullback Ulysses Fotofili and winger Max Stride.

The points table sees Avoca Beach on 54, Terrigal on 53 and the Razorbacks on 52 tightly bunched, followed by Gosford on 39, Warnervale on 37, Hornsby on 18, The Lakes on 13, Woy Woy on 7 and Lake Macquarie on 5.

In the Women’s 10s competition victories went to Terrigal, Avoca Beach and Hornsby, with Terrigal and Avoca Beach entrenched in

first and second positions respectively and Hornsby jumping into fourth spot.

In Round 15 on August 5, the match of the day will see Gosford host Avoca Beach at Gosford Rugby Field.

e Razorbacks and Hornsby will meet at Ourimbah Rugby Park and Warnervale will travel to Slade Park to challenge The Lakes.

Terrigal will travel to Woy Woy Oval to take on the home team.

In the President’s Cup, August 5 will see three games.

The Bay will host Terrigal at Joseph Banks Oval, Gosford/ Kariong will meet Avoca Beach at home and the Razorbacks will play Warnervale at Ourimbah Rugby Park.

In the Women’s 10s competition, The Lakes and Warnervale will clash at Slade Park, Terrigal will take on Woy Woy at Woy Woy Oval and Hornsby and the Razorbacks meet in a crucial game at Ourimbah Rugby Park as they battle it out for fourth spot on the ladder.

Waving Coast flag at Commonwealth Youth Games

Two young athletes are waving the flag for the Central Coast at the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games.

George Wells and Liliya Tatarinoff are two of a team of 76 athletes forming the Australian contingent for the games, an international multisport event organised by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).

The Games bring nations together in a colourful celebration of sport and human performance, giving young athletes aged between 14 and 18 a platform to develop their skills and gain valuable

experience on the international stage.

The event was first held in 2000 in Edinburgh, Scotland, and since then has been held an additional five times.

The Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games will see more than 1000 athletes compete across seven sports from August 4-11.

The sports will take place across Trinidad and Tobago, bringing a diverse perspective of the twin island country to the nations of the Commonwealth, as well as showcasing a festival of the country’s activities.

Seven sports will be featured, with 94 different medal events.

For the first time, paraathletics has been included in the Youth Games program.

Trinbago 2023 will also see

the debut of FAST5 Netball and both Individual and Mixed Triathlon events.

George Wells will compete in

the Men’s Discus Throw.

Representing Mingara Athletics Club, with ties to Gosford Athletics Club, George started in athletics when he was five years old.

His most recent achievements include setting a State Little Athletics record in Discus and winning the U18 Discus and Shot Put Australian titles.

His aspirations include success at this Commonwealth Youth Games and throwing the 1.5kg discus over 60m.

Liliya Tatarinoff, a member of the Central Coast Cycling Club, will compete in Track.

Liliya has been competing in Track Cycling since she was

seven and her most recent achievements include being crowned the U19 Women Sprints National Champion, 500m Time Trial National Champion and taking out the Team Sprint title.

She also holds the Australian record for the U17 500m Time Trial and Team Sprint and is the U19 500m Time Trial and Keirin Oceania Champion. Her future aspirations include representing Australia at the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

German media set up shop at Wyong Race Club for World Cup

Wyong Race Club is currently playing host to the German media for the duration of the Women’s FIFA World Cup.

The club’s permanent marquee has been converted into a dedicated media centre for FIFA-accredited journalists, with daily briefing sessions while the German team is in camp.

Workstations have been established for up to 30 journalists, with other rooms provided for interviewing purposes.

The German team is currently ranked two in the world and is

expected to be a major player in the World Cup.

Outgoing Club General Manager Robin Taylor said they were excited to welcome the German media contingent, who will utilise the facilities until August 17.

“The club is very familiar with television broadcasting through our racing operations but large-scale media operations and translating services is definitely new to us,” he said.

“The German media were impressed with our facilities and close proximity to Sydney, considering WRC their ideal

base.”

Taylor said they were fortunate the only Wyong race meeting to fall during the period – on Thursday, August 3 – was when the German team played the Korean Republic at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, avoiding any clash between the two operations.

The club’s event coordination, food and beverage and IT services will be engaged throughout the tournament, along with local company Lost Art Signs providing signage and JC Entertainment for AV and translation services.

The German team has

entrusted a team of suppliers from the Central Coast to safely deliver its World Cup Campaign. Hopefully, the staging of this event will send a signal to enterprises closer to home, that the Central Coast’s has the skills and capabilities to deliver.

Businesses don’t have to resort to Sydney and Newcastle venues for major event services.

With media content being beamed back to Germany and other countries, hopefully, there will be some flow-on benefits for the Central Coast tourism industry too.

Liliya Tatarinoff George Wells

Source: Wyong Race Club

Some of the German media contingent conducting an interview at Wyong Race Club

Source: Central Coast Rugby

Warnervale proved too strong for Hornsby, chalking up a 47-12 win

Heart shooter calls it a day

Madeleine Taylor is calling it a day after eight years

After eight very successful seasons holding the shooting circle for Central Coast Heart, Madeleine Taylor has announced her retirement from Premier League Netball.

The Opens Vice-Captain was the very first signing for the Heart franchise and was the

first Premier League player to notch up 100 appearances.

Her eight years in the Premier League were highlighted by significant personal success.

She received the Netball NSW Nance Kenny award, was awarded an OAM and was the Premier League Player of the Year in 2017 and 2019.

She was also named Central

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Coast Heart Athlete of the Year in 2021 and Central Coast Heart Player’s Player in 2016 and 2017.

Taylor co-captained her sides in 2020 and 2021 and was vice captain and co vice captain in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

These accolades were topped with significant team success, with Taylor on teams including

Netball NSW Premier League Opens Champion in 2018, NSW Premier League Grand Finalist in 2019 and 2022 and Central Coast Sports Awards Team of the Year in 2018.

The Hunter Netball junior will be remembered for her significant contribution to Central Coast and Hunter netball and her unwavering

commitment to Central Coast Heart.

Taylor said it had been a “long eight years” in the sport.

“I have had great fun playing with the younger girls as well as the more experienced players,” she said.

“But it is my time to stop.

“Playing is a big commitment physically and my body is

telling me it’s time.

“Also, there are new, young shooters emerging and they should have their chance to take that spot on the court.”

Taylor is doubtful that coaching is in her future.

“I will take a year off before I decide what comes next,” she said.

Terry Collins

NETBALL

Madeleine Taylor on the court | Photo: Cluster Pix Photography