Coast Community News 404

Ettalong channel to be dredged at last

Ettalong Channel is set to be dredged by the end of August, with work expected to start this week.

Sand build-up in the channel has seen Palm Beach Ferries services diverted from Ettalong and Wagstaffe to Patonga for months, with Central Coast commuters experiencing major inconveniences.

Fantasea first announced it would divert services early in June due to channel inaccessibility, with commuters thrown into chaos as they scrambled to arrange transport to Patonga to meet the ferry.

The Government subsequently introduced shuttle services, first from

Ettalong and later from Wagstaffe, to coincide with ferry arrivals and departures at Patonga.

Businesses and commuters have been anxiously awaiting news on

when the problem could be addressed. Transport for NSW Maritime has now received a Crown Lands’ licence to start dredging by the end of the month. McQuade Marine has been engaged

to carry out the work, which will see 30,000 cubic metres of sand removed.

A dredge was expected to be moved from Queensland to Ettalong on August 19-20, weather conditions permitting, with the goal of starting this week.

Dredged sand will be placed in the water on Ettalong Shoals, just off Ocean Beach.

This location is in line with previous dredging campaigns.

As part of the project, measures will be put in place to protect environmentally sensitive areas.

Continued page 8

Sport

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch at Ettalong Channel

Mother and calf off Soldiers Beach | Photo: ORRCA Member Daryn McKenny – CASA Licensed Drone Operator

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EDITORIAL

MPs and bureaucrats at odds over shark meshing

The decision by the NSW Department of Primary Industries to maintain its universally unpopular shark meshing program across the state is concerning –and not just for sea life.

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 Material that is offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.

All contributions should be emailed to the above email address.

Manager & 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

Local State MPs have been pointing fingers at each other over the destructive program for years without managing to stop the practice.

In the intricate dance of governance, the relationship between elected officials and bureaucracy is a crucial one.

The DPI has shown it holds the upper hand in the balance of power with this decision.

While elected officials are the embodiment of the public’s democraticwill,thebureaucratic machinery should serve as the operational backbone that translates policies into action.

However, this instance of the bureaucracy seemingly overriding elected officials in regard to shark meshing should spark important debates about the balance between expertise and representation.

Bureaucracies are designed to provide stability, continuity and expertise in the administration of public affairs. Their role encompasses a wide range of functions, from implementing laws to managing public resources.

Elected officials, on the other hand, derive their authority from the people’s trust and are responsible for articulating the collective aspirations of the citizens.

Instances where bureaucratic decisions appear to overshadow those of elected officials often stem from inherent complexities in policy implementation. Complex issues demand nuanced solutions, and the accumulated experience and expertise within bureaucracies can provide invaluable insights.

In such cases, it’s not necessarily an overreach but rather a manifestation of the technical and practical expertise that these agencies possess.

Furthermore, the relationship between bureaucrats and elected officials is not necessarily adversarial; rather, it is often

Cash boost for Avoca Beach SLSC

Avoca Beach SLSC has received $4,905 to buy eight new training manikins and three remote medical first aid kits through the Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants.

Club President Stuart Harvey said the much-needed training equipment would help upskill members in resuscitation.

“Each year we have hundreds of people training on manikins learning resuscitation and it’s great the Federal Government can assist our community in supplying money for the purchase of this equipment,” he said.

“The first aid kits allow us to renew and replace old equipment, so our lifesavers are at the ready.”

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid visited the club recently to announce the funding and congratulate its members.

characterised by collaboration and consultation.

A well-functioning government benefits from this synergy, where elected officials set broad goals and bureaucrats execute them with an understanding of the intricate details.

However, concerns arise when bureaucratic actions appear to disregarddemocraticmandates.

The Minister for the Central Coast David Harris must be embarrassed as must be Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch.

Both have been ignored by the DPI over the years on this issue.

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good governance and elected officials are entrusted with upholding these principles.

Bureaucracies must operate within the parameters set by elected representatives to ensure that the democratic will is respected.

Finding the right balance between these two pillars of governance is crucial.

Clear communication channels, periodic review mechanisms and increased public engagement can help bridge potential gaps.

Elected officials should maintain a proactive approach in understanding bureaucratic actions, while bureaucrats should respect the broader policy framework and the will of the citizens.

In conclusion, the relationship between our bureaucracies and elected officials is intricate and multifaceted.

Bureaucratic expertise is essential for effective governance, especially in dealing with complex issues. However, checks and balances must be in place to prevent any perception of elected officials being sidelined.

A harmonious collaboration between these two essential components of government is the key to achieving efficient and responsive governance that truly serves the people.

David Abrahams

Helicopter Patrol

Livestock Warning

“Our surf lifesaving clubs are always there for our communities,” Reid said.

“The club will use its grant funding towards increasing its capabilities by purchasing safety equipment to support its volunteers while they undertake duties.

“I wish to thank all members and volunteers of Avoca Beach SLSC and wish them well for the upcoming summer season.”

The Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants provide notfor-profit organisations with funding of between $1,000 and $5,000 to support the work of its volunteers.

The 2023-34 Volunteer Grants are now open, and organisations are encouraged to contact Reid’s office for an expressions of interest form.

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Ausgrid is conducting aerial patrols as planned maintenance for continuing reliability and safety across your local electricity network Our helicopter is scheduled to fly over the rural areas of Ourimbah, Kangy Angy, Berkeley Vale, Tuggerah, Alison, Jillyby, Wyee, Wyee Point and Mannering Park from Tuesday 29 August to Friday 1 September 2023.

The helicopter will fly close to overhead powerlines between 7: 30am and 5:00pm and may startle livestock

For more information, including detailed flight plans, please phone Scott Wedesweiler on 0417 683 102.

Dolphins are often caught and killed in the nets

Safety improvement work along Wilfred Barrett Dr funded by the State Government has been completed to the tune of $22.5M.

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said the project was part of the Government’s Safer Roads Program and was carried out along a four-kilometre section of the road between Wyuna Ave, Magenta, and just north of Pelican Beach Rd, The Entrance North.

Wilfred Barrett Drive upgrade complete

“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring all road users make it home safely to their loved ones,” Mehan said.

“The completion of this upgrade is a win for the 14,000 motorists who use Wilfred Barrett Dr every day.

“It will reduce the risk of crashes on this stretch of road.

“The construction work also had the added benefit of directly or indirectly employing more than 480 people.”

Mehan said major work included a number of safety improvements.

“The work involved widening the road to provide a one metre wide central median and three metre southbound shoulders, and the installation of right turn bays into Pelican Beach Rd and Red Gum Trail walking track car park,” he said.

“Transport for NSW also installed safety barriers and audio-tactile line marking, or

rumble strips, which provide a noise and vibratory warning to a driver or rider who has drifted from their lane.

“Motorists can now benefit from the newly completed safety improvements,with final finishing works to be completed within three months.”

Rare sighting of whale mother and calf

Central Coast whale watchers were treated to a rare sight last Thursday afternoon, August 17.

Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast (MWRCC) said a mother and calf Southern Right whale were spotted off Soldiers Beach, near Norah Head.

“National Parks and Wildlife Service had been tracking the pair since the calf was born, north of Coffs Harbour, on July 25,” spokesperson Ronny Ling said.

“They had previously visited Port Macquarie and Port Stephens on their journey south.

“MWRCC was able to obtain great footage of the whales to help authorities monitor the pair.

“The rare whales belong to a special population of Southern Right whale which is believed to number just 250.”

The pair continued to move south, thrilling crowds of people at Avoca, Copacabana, Macmasters Beach and Killcare on Friday, August 18.

“As these massive animals are shallow water experts, they entertained crowds from just 20m from shore,” Ling said.

“There was no need for binoculars (and) plenty of time to appreciate these wonderful leviathans.”

Ling said there is a 300m exclusion zone around all whales which have a calf present.

Spokesperson for ORRCA, the

Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia, Jacqueline O’Neill, reminded residents to keep their distance should they encounter the pair to allow them to rest and continue their migration safely.

“The species is easily stressed and need ample rest,” she said.

“Southern Right whales are considered endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, with this adult being one of only six sighted in NSW waters this season.

“Her calf is only the second to be sighted this year.”

O’Neill said the mother whale had first been sighted off Bermagui on July 15 and has

been frequently sighted since, with the first sighting of mother and calf together being on July 27 off Coffs Harbour.

“ORRCA members have been working with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to identify and track Southern Right whales off the NSW east coast as part of a NSW Government research project called Right Whale ID, which seeks to better understand the whales’ movements and improve protections for this threatened species, whose populations plummeted as a result of commercial whaling over 30 years ago,” she said.

“Southern Right whales migrate from Antarctica each year to breed and calve off the

east coast from May to around October and will give birth in and around the coastal bays of NSW – unlike their Humpback counterparts who travel north to Queensland.

“Southern Right whales are a rare and special sight – we see so few of them each year, particularly with newborn calves.”

To report a Southern Right whale sighting, or to report an injured, stranded, or entangled marine mammal, contact the ORRCA Rescue Hotline on 9415 3333or Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast on 0478 439 965.

Some Southern Right whale facts:

• Right whales were so named as

they were the “right” whales to hunt.

• They grow to around 16m and can weigh up to 80 ton.

• They move slow, travel very close to shore, float when they are dead and have the highest oil yield of any whale.

Calves are around 4-5m when born and weigh up to 1 ton.

• Gestation time is 12 months and mothers calve every 4-5 years.

• Whaling of these animals continued until 1978 and they are now listed as endangered

• The whitish lumps on the whales head are called “callosities” and are as individual as human fingerprints

Terry Collins

Source:

Member for The Entrance David Mehan

Member for The Entrance David Mehan with Transport for NSW District Works Manager Luke Skelton

Mild weather sees early start to snake season

The Australian Reptile Park has issued an urgent warning for residents to be on the lookout for venomous snakes with temperatures rising after recent rainfall – the perfect environment for snakes.

With the east coast of Australia currently experiencing one of the warmest winters on record, snake experts believe that snake season may begin earlier than expected.

As temperatures rise, snakes are emerging from their hiding spots earlier than usual, making it important for families to exercise caution.

Snake catchers have already reported a significant increase in callouts, a phenomenon rarely seen at this time of year. Typically, snakes do not come out of brumation until September.

However, due to the unseasonably warm weather, experts warn that snakes could be active much earlier this year.

Park Operations Manager Billy Collett said snakes do not go out of their way to harm people.

“Snake bites mostly occur when people are trying to catch or kill the snake, so if you don’t

do either of those things, there’s a greater chance that you’ll be okay,” he said.

“However, it is important to know snake bite first aid, so if the worst-case scenario occurs you are prepared.”

First aid for snake bites include keeping the bite victim calm and immobile, removing all jewellery/watches, applying a pressure-immobilisation bandage to the bite site, then bandaging the entire limb (not just the bite area) and seeking

emergency medical assistance immediately by calling an ambulance or going directly to hospital.

“By applying the pressureimmobilisation bandage, venom cannot easily spread through the body, slowing down the envenomation process by buying the bite victim more time to seek medical attention at the hospital,” Collett said.

“Anyone who visits us here at the Park knows our staff spend

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Central Coast Wetlands - Pioneer Dairy Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating? Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the benefit of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

There are seven board positions responsible for the overall goal of enhancing Central Coast Wetlands – Pioneer Dairy as an outstanding recreational, environmental and community parkland for the Central Coast. Applicants will need to be qualified to:

• Develop and consult on a masterplan for the site which involves a range of quality environmental, community and recreational uses.

• Investigate and scope out critical infrastructure upgrades required to implement the masterplan.

• Develop a business model for future use of the reserve, and funding sources for the infrastructure upgrades.

• Manage the ongoing short term uses.

• Engage and support volunteers in the ongoing maintenance and environmental management of the site.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Central Coast Wetlands – Pioneer Dairy Land Manager manages Reserve No. R1003002 at Tuggerah notified on 22 June 2001 for Public Recreation and Coastal Environmental Protection. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 21 September 2023.

For further information contact: Peter Draper on (02) 4937 9311 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

as much time as possible educating people on snake safety.

“While the Australian Reptile Park saves approximately 300 lives each year through our antivenom program,experience tells us basic awareness and safety can also help save lives.”

With the warm Spring weather approaching, there’s a greater chance that snakes will find a safe haven in people’s backyards.

To assist in deterring snakes from backyards, the Australian Reptile Park advises residents to keep grass areas around their house mowed and well maintained; also avoid piling up left over firewood or accumulating stick piles. Tin sheets or any household items like these that are piled up can draw in heat providing a perfect man-made habitat for snakes.

These areas provide a safe house for snakes as they sit in

stealth mode awaiting prey to feed, and if startled they will defend through biting.

Depending on the species of venomous snake, a bite could destroy blood cells, cause blood clots, or excessive bleeding and destroy tissue.

If not correctly treated with first aid immediately, a fatality can occur in as little as 30 minutes, depending on the amount of venom injected by the snake, toxicity level of the venom and the type of snake.

The Australian Reptile Park is the only facility in the world that milks Australian terrestrial land snakes for the production of antivenom.

With 2,000 reported snake bites occurring annually in Australia, having rookies undergo rigorous training to contribute to the venom program becomes crucial, as it directly translates to saving an estimated 300 lives each year.

This is done with the help of CSL Seqirus, where the raw venom is transformed into the final product of lifesaving antivenom.

Shark nets to return this Summer

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart have slammed a State Government decision to reintroduce shark nets at Central Coast beaches this Summer despite strong community opposition.

The Government announced this week it will continue the Shark Management Program in its current form for the coming Summer swimming season.

This includes installing shark nets at 51 beaches across eight local government areas, including the Central Coast.

It also includes SMART drumlines, tagged shark listening stations and surveillance drone patrols.

A spokesperson said continuing the full suite of measures for the 2023-24 season would help in gathering further data to make better informed decisions about possible changes for the following (2024-25) season.

“The shark meshing program is actively managed to minimise the impact on marine animals while protecting swimmers at some of NSW’s most popular beaches,” the spokesperson said.

“The safety of beachgoers is the Government’s number one priority.”

The Central Coast LGA has 32 SMART drumlines, three tagged shark listening stations and drone patrols are conducted at North Entrance, Avoca and Ocean Beach during the Spring, Summer and Autumn school holidays.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said the Government would continue to work with coastal councils and their communities to “ensure that local preferences are balanced against effective, evidence-based shark mitigation for beachgoers”.

But Crouch said it was appalling that the nets would once again be deployed on the Central Coast, with animal welfare and environmental groups united in their opposition.

They say the nets are ineffective, with varied marine life caught and often killed in the nets.

“It’s absolutely appalling that the Minns Government will introduce shark nets across the coastline of New South Wales, including the Central Coast,” Crouch said.

He said the Shark Meshing Annual Performance Report 2022/23 prepared by the Department of Primary

Industries proved that shark nets are an ineffective shark mitigation strategy.

Although the Central Coast LGA has multiple drumlines, Crouch said a request by Central Coast Council for three more at Killcare, Lakes and Ocean Beaches had been totally ignored by the Government.

He called on Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Member for Wyong David Harris to provide answers as to why the requests had been ignored.

At the Council meeting on August 22, Administrator Rik Hart said reintroducing shark nets this year was “not the right decision”.

“We have made it very clear we are opposed to shark nets and it is surprising we are still waiting for the State Government to act,” he said. “Council does not support shark nets and urges the Government to consider alternatives.

“We will continue to work with the Government to ensure the ongoing safety of residents but it is time for the Government to sit down with local councils to discuss transition away from shark nets.”

Terry Collins

Source: Australian Reptile Park

The King Brown snake is one to watch out for | Photo: Australian Reptile Park Tiger snakes are often seen |

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

David Harris: the Minister for Everything

Member for Wyong David Harris has attracted the unofficial title of the Minister for Everything as he juggles multiple portfolios following the election of the Labor State Government in March.

As well as being the first Minister for the Central Coast for some years, Harris is also Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, Gaming and Racing, Veterans and Medical Research.

Harris, who was on the Central Coast last week, said it was a “bit of a challenge” some days but he was supported by a strong team and was “working through issues one by one and kicking a few goals”.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch continues to apply pressure on the new Government to honour its election commitments, most recently urging action on a $10,000 pledge to the Macmasters, Avoca, North Avoca and Wamberal Boardrider Clubs.

Crouch has also been vocal demanding a statement on the future of regional funding programs such as the Stronger Country Communities Fund and Regional Job Creation Fund.

He has criticised the expected discontinuation the Active Kids vouchers and Regional Seniors Travel Card schemes and particularly the recent announcement that free parking at regional public hospitals would not include Gosford Hospital.

But Harris said the previous Liberal Government had left “no money” in the coffers.

“Various projects had ‘sunset dates’, meaning there is no money allocated in the forward estimates,” he said.

“We have only been in government for five months

and are working on prioritising actions.

“Wage increases for our frontline workers were top of the list and we will address other issues in our budget in September and the following budget next June.”

Harris said he had met with “lots of different groups” during his week on the Central Coast.

“We are making sure we have the best plans in place going forward,” he said.

He said a priority would be delivering on a pre-election pledge of $8.5M for the Gosford waterfront redevelopment.

Harris inspected the precinct last week to “look at what sort of development” would be viable.

“People have waited a long time for a good coherent plan and that’s what we’re set on delivering,” he said.

Harris defended the decision to retain parking fees at Gosford Hospital.

“We don’t want commuters parking there – we need to ensure the people who need (the hospital parking) are actually using it,” he said.

He said planning was underway for the next stage of

the widening of Central Coast Hwy to four lanes from Gosford through to the Ourimbah roundabout, with the Lisarow stage recently completed.

“The Minns Labor Government will deliver its commitments to the Central Coast community,” he said.

“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 processes.

“Commitments that meet these guidelines will be announced in due course.”

Terry

Collins

David Harris says the redevelopment of the Gosford waterfront will be a priority

An artist’s impression of proposed Gosford waterfront

Still time to support the sleepout

The Central Coast community is eagerly gearing up for the Coast Shelter Sleepout, set to take place on Friday, August 25.

The annual event aims to raise crucial funds and awareness to combat homelessness in the region while bringing the community together for a night of solidarity and compassion.

This year’s Sleepout promises to be bigger and better than ever and is proudly sponsored by local construction company Form Construction Group, a leading name in the industry known for its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement.

A highlight of this year’s event will be the introduction of the first-ever Charity Penalty Shootout, featuring Central Coast Mariners’ star goalkeeper, Danny Vukovic. With his incredible talent and dedication to the community,

Vukovic is excited to participate and support Coast Shelter’s mission to provide shelter, food, and support services to those experiencing homelessness.

Sleepers will have the

opportunity of attempting a goal against Vukovic to help boost the fundraising tally on the night.

The Sleepout will take place at Industree Group Stadium, where participants will experience a night of sleeping

rough, providing them with a glimpse into the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.

“We are honoured to be the major sponsor of the Coast Shelter Sleepout,” Director of Form Construction Group

Jarryd Sansom said.

“Supporting Coast Shelter’s cause aligns perfectly with our company’s values and our commitment to giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the years.”

Every dollar raised through the Coast Shelter Sleepout will directly contribute to providing vital services to those facing homelessness.

Other local companies supporting the cause through sponsorship or partnership include Eastcoast Beverages, MoovModular, The Agency Central Coast, Masterfoods, Wolfewise Creative, Kwik Kopy Gosford, Triple M Central Coast, Hit 101.3 Central Coast, Erina Fair, Kincumber Mitre 10, Eve Electrical and Industree Group Stadium.

As we went to press the event had reached its target goal of $200,000 raised, but donations are still welcome.

Residents are encouraged to register or donate to the Coast Shelter Sleepout at www. coastsheltersleepout.com.au to make a real difference in the lives of Coasties doing it tough.

Source: Coast Shelter

UN rep to meet with Coast community over coal ash dams

The United Nations Special Rapporteur, Dr Marcus Orellana, has agreed to meet with the Future Sooner group and interested community members on August 29 to discuss concerns over the environmental effects of coal ash dams in the region.

Future Sooner spokesperson Gary Blaschke said the group was pleased Orellana had agreed to the meeting.

“The UN considers the health issues that people on the Central Coast have to endure from coal-fired power stations like Vales Point and their ash dams important enough to allocate half a day from his busy schedule to come (and) talk to the community,” Blaschke said.

“The Central Coast has one major industry – coal fired power stations.

“Yet we have an abnormal number of lung diseases and cancers.

“This includes children as young as three years old with brain tumours and teenagers with spinal tumours.

“Along with Future Sooner, Environmental Justice Australia (EJA) and the Hunter Community Environment Centre (HCEC) will present their findings.

“There will also time for a Q&A.

“We’ll be covering everything from the air pollution to cancers, toxins in Lake Macquarie and the fish kill, exemption licences for coalfired power stations and what it means to the community.”

Blaschke said Future Sooner hopes the UN visit will galvanise the NSW government into implementing the 16

recommendations of the Coal Ash Inquiry (March 2021).

“They promised to do so (but) so far, have done nothing,” he said.

“This is an important event for the residents of the Central Coast.

“We encourage everyone to come along to meet the UN (representative) and take this opportunity to tell their story.”

The meeting will be held at Chain Valley Community Hall from 1-3.30pm on Tuesday, August 29.

Central Coast libraries evolve with new services

Council library services are continuing to evolve with extended services now including the introduction of new self-service lockers.

These allow customers to collect their online reservations at a time that suits them from Erina, Tuggerah and Umina Beach library branches and also from Wyong at the front of the Council building.

Central Coast Council Libraries and Education Unit Manager, Beth Burgess, said the new lockers were funded through the NSW State Government’s Public Library Infrastructure Grant program.

“The new lockers allow library members the

convenience of reserving items from our extensive online catalogue and selecting one of the four book locker locations to collect them from,” she said.

“Library members will receive a notification when their reservation is ready to collect, along with a code for the locker which is accessible 24/7.

“The lockers at each of these locations can also be used to return items.

“If people are enthusiastic about the new locker service, we will look at providing more locations in the future.

“Since the successful trial of Library@YourTime, at Council’s Toukley branch, library members are also now enjoying

the extended service at Bateau Bay and Kariong.

“To respond to the demand, we have recently increased the hours of Library@yourtime to allow access from 6am to 9pm, seven days per week.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said this was a great example of how Council was utilising technology to connect people, build capacity and create local solutions and initiatives that better serve the needs of the community.

“Extended library services are creating more opportunities for Council to continue to offer an inclusive library service with flexible and co-located community facilities,” Hart

said.

“This ensures people with different needs can participate and get more value out of their library service, especially commuters and students.

“Council libraries are continually reviewing their services and facilities to meet the changing needs of library users, including how people want to visit, borrow items and enjoy their library experience.”

To see what’s available to borrow from the Central Coast library catalogue visit libraries. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Source: Central Coast Council

This team, Doctors for Coast Shelter, was last year’s highest fundraiser with a total of $25,000

Source: Future Sooner Vales Point Power Station’s coal ash dam

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Community radio station 93.3 celebrates 30 years on air

Community radio station

93.3FM is proudly celebrating its Pearl Anniversary – 30 years on the air over the entire Central Coast region.

Thanks to a couple of dedicated radio buffs feeling a need for music for the mature listener on the Woy Woy Peninsula, Radio Five-O-Plus 93.3FM first began during Seniors Week in March 1993 – then broadcast two days a week from August that same year, with a 10-watt transmitter from a small room above a chemist shop in Umina.

Due to the great response from listeners, it was decided to move to the Gosford area, transmitting from Rumbalara Mountain at East Gosford with an increased power of 200 watts, broadcasting seven days a week by 1999.

From its modern North

Gosford studios staffed entirely by volunteers, 93.3M has grown remarkably since those humble beginnings and now broadcasts with a powerful 2000 watts from its Kariong tower all across the Central Coast, throughout the Hunter, Lake Macquarie, northern suburbs of Sydney and some

areas of the Blue Mountains.

The station’s live internet streaming service also reaches out to many new listeners –anyone with a computer!

Over six million Australians tune into the national community radio network each week because it provides a

unique range of services and programs, and contributes to media diversity with a high level of local content such as news, weather, traffic and commuter updates, and free community service announcements – which 93.3FM proudly embraces. Its unique easy-listening

music and songs evoke great memories, with playlists covering the 1950s to the ‘80s, and occasionally beyond, with at least 25 per cent Australian content.

93.3FM is also proud of its partnership with Central Coast Newspapers, which provides the station’s local news content three times a day for its Monday to Friday bulletins.

As well as revenue raised from sponsors and members, the station receives communityfunded grants which enable the upgrading of all its broadcast facilities to state-ofthe-art digital equipment.

The two presentation studios now have much improved audio quality, cabling and sound-proofing.

Radio Five-O-Plus boasts at least 700 members, with 14 on-air presenters, over 30 office and support staff and a

Robertson Voice forum a great success

The Robertson Referendum Forum held recently at Breakers Country Club in Wamberal was a success with close to 160 people attending the evening.

Panellists included Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, former ACT Chief Minister and Co-convenor of Liberals for Yes, Kate Carnell, and Barang Regional Alliance Operations Manager Gary Field.

Attendees heard from all three panellists about why it was important for Australia to

recognise First Nations people in the constitution and establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

Reid said the forum was a great way for people in the community to learn more about the upcoming referendum.

“The Robertson Referendum Forum was an opportunity for people in the community to hear information about the upcoming referendum and to have any questions answered,” he said.

“It was excellent to have the

knowledge and insights from both Kate Carnell and Gary Field on the evening.

“The upcoming referendum is an opportunity for our nation to recognise First Nations people through the establishment of a Voice.

“It will allow First Nations communities to have a say about the issues and policies that affect them.

“This will ensure better outcomes are achieved.

“We must be respectful of all

Killcare surf club all set for Summer

With the start of the Summer season imminent, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has welcomed the delivery of Killcare Surf Life Saving Club’s new allterrain response vehicle as a win for the community and the club.

“I had the great pleasure of heading down to Killcare to view the surf club’s brand-new all-terrain vehicle, which was funded under Community

Building Partnerships 2022 and is fully equipped and ready to go for the summer season,” Crouch said.

Crouch also looked over the new electric hot water system which was funded to the amount of $34,090 under the former Coalition Government’s Surf Club Facility Program.

“This investment into transitioning the club’s hot water system away from gas to electric will connect the system

up to the existing solar and battery system enabling a reduced reliance on gas usage,” he said.

Surf club president Craig Sheppard said the investment has delivered real results for the Club.

“It’s an exciting time for Killcare, albeit coming into what looks like a bit of a concerning summer, but due in no small part to the support of this grant funding, we are as

well placed as we can be to face it,” he said.

Sheppard said the club wanted to recognise the great work BRP Australia had done in fitting out the new ATV.

“We’re grateful to BRP who provided the ATV at a heavy discount and Beaches Sea-Doo and Can-Am who were fantastic in fitting it out for its life saving role,” he said.

Ettalong channel to be dredged at last

From page 1

This will include establishing buffer areas to prevent the disturbance of sea grasses.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the community has been crying out for the channel to be dredged for too long, laying the blame at the feet of the former Liberal State Government, which she says let the dredging backlog build up over 12 years.

“We are fixing the issues we inherited and getting to work, dredging the channel,” she said.

“I’m really pleased that the Minister is developing a 10year plan which will see Transport develop the necessary environmental assessments and approvals, including options for future dredging campaigns to place sand in areas along the Ettalong foreshore.

member-elected board of seven which meets regularly to monitor not only station quality control and audience feedback, but to remain abreast of all digital and associated platforms for continuous integration of automated programming.

To commemorate its 30 years of broadcasting, 93.3FM will present a one-hour show special, hosted by Allan Maddox, Kathy Patterson, Roy Bailleau, Wendy McRobie and Kevin Bullock, who will play some of their favourite tracks from the Radio Five-O-Plus library of great music.

Tune in to 93.3FM at 5pm this Saturday, August 26, for the Pearl Anniversary celebration program.

Visit www.fiveoplus.com.au, which has links to email, Facebook page, and Coast Community News.

Bryan Hall

people during this national debate.

“Australia is a diverse, inclusive and tolerant nation –we can have debates without resorting to Trump-style behaviour or scare campaigns.

“I am pleased that the Robertson Referendum Forum provided a place for people to understand the process in a safe and friendly environment.”

“That wasn’t possible this time around because it would have delayed the start of dredging, but we’ll do the work to explore if it’s possible in the future.”

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said the work would ensure the channel can continue serving as a vital transport link for years to come.

She said she had asked Transport for NSW to develop a

10-year plan for dredging.

“I don’t want this important work to fall behind again,” she said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said communities and businesses on the Bouddi Peninsula had been suffering since the ferry services were diverted.

Terry Collins

The cast of volunteers at a recent meeting of 93.3FM Community Radio Five-O-Plus, steered by Station Manager Allan Maddox (back row, end left) and Program Manager Mike Firth (back row, end right)

Source: Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Forum MC Jenni Neary, Gordon Reid, Kate Carnell and Gary Field

Source: Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch checks out the new response vehicle

The Palm Beach ferry at the Ettalong channel at dawn | Photo: CCN

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is urging residents to keep batteries out of household bins due to a growing number of batteryrelated fires across the state.

Numbers of lithium battery fires in homes and in garbage trucks and tips are increasing, with Fire and Rescue NSW responding to around three battery fires a week.

Fire and Rescue NSW data shows that so far this year, NSW has seen a 20 per cent increase in battery-related fire or explosion incidents when comparing the number of fires this year to the first half of last year.

Dispose of batteries safely, urges Tesch

“Batteries are vital to powering our day-to-day lives, but not enough people are aware of the dangers they pose when thrown into kerbside waste and recycling bins,” Tesch said.

“There has been a significant increase in fires in garbage trucks and waste facilities across the state, but we can avoid them on the Central Coast if we dispose of batteries properly.

“Batteries should never be put in household bins and should instead be dropped off at a battery collection site for recycling.

“When disposed of correctly, 95 per cent of battery

components can be recycled into new products.”

Batteries contain a range of metals including lead, mercury

and lithium which are hazardous when dealt with incorrectly. There are several recycling

options available to consumers.

The NSW Government has partnered with B-cycle, the national product stewardship scheme for batteries.

B-cycle drop off points are available at large retail outlets such as Woolworths Woy Woy, Bunnings Umina Beach and Officeworks West Gosford.

Community Recycling Centres (CRC) and Household Chemical CleanOut events also accept batteries so you can now drop off small household batteries at over 1,000 locations across NSW for recycling.

When a battery has reached the end of its life, the terminals should be taped with clear

sticky tape. Once taped, batteries can be stored in a cool dry place, out of reach of children, before being taken to B-cycle drop off point or CRC for safe collection and recycling. Find your nearest drop off point at www.cleanout.com or www.bcycle.com.au.

Products with batteries embedded in them, like phones, laptops and power tools, should be disposed of at an e-waste recycling facility or e-waste drop-off event.

To find out more about safe battery disposal, visit the EPA’s website.

Weekday walkers have a busy month ahead

The Weekday Walkers have issued their walk schedule for September.

On September 5, they will tackle Spion Kop, meeting at the corner of Woy Woy Rd and Bambara Rd, Kariong, at 9am.

It’s a 10.5km hard walk with steep ascent and descent.

September 12 will be the Katandra Reserve Circuit, meeting at Katandra Reserve carpark, at the end of Katandra

Dr, off Wattle Tree Rd, Holgate. Meet at 9.30am for an easy to medium 7km walk.

The group will follow Graves walk to the picnic area and St John’s Lookout, returning via Toomey’s rainforest walk and Seymour Pond.

On September 19, there will be a medium to hard 9km walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach.

Participants will meet in the

second carriage from the front of a train leaving Wyong at 7.54am, Tuggerah at 7.57am, Gosford at 8.15am, Woy Woy at 8.26am, changing at Redfern for the 9.46am service to Bondi Junction.

Walkers can bring or buy lunch.

On September 26, walkers will meet at 9.30am for an 8.5km medium to hard walk at Pearl Beach Arboretum carpark in Crystal Ave.

They will walk Postman’s track to Pearly Ponds, then follow the track up to the Waratah path, along to Waratah Trig Rd before lunch at Elephant Rock, returning via the fire trail to Crystal Ave.

Expect a few steep sections and a couple of rock scrambles.

Source: Weekday Walkers

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is urging residents to dispose of batteries safely

The Weekday Walkers in Rumbalara Reserve

Coast Connect

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

12-month community engagement calendar made public

At the Council meeting on Tuesday 22 August, I was pleased to finalise a public, 12-month forward plan for community engagement which outlines the key projects, initiatives, policies, strategies and plans that Council will be engaging the Central Coast community on this financial year. The Community Engagement Plan for 2023-24 was drafted in response to an Administrator Minute I tabled at the June 2023 Council Meeting and is now a public document which will soon be available to the community on Council’s engagement website, yourvoiceourcoast.com

I am pleased with this outcome, which means the Central Coast community now has a thorough list of projects and timelines that the community can expect to be engaged on during the course of this financial year.

The Central Coast has begun its last complete financial year under the current period of Administration before Councillors return in September 2024. This list of engagement projects can help the community stay abreast of community consultation projects that may be of interest to them which are coming up throughout the year.

Most importantly, this community engagement plan will become an annual fixture in Council’s yearly operational planning.

Did you miss the last Council meeting?

Re-watch the webcast on our YouTube channel. Links can be found on our website at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ meetings, along with meeting agendas, reports and minutes.

What’s On

Grandma Moses Art Competition is back!

Local artists aged 50 and over are invited to enter this annual competition, which is a great opportunity to brush up on painting or drawing skills, exhibit artwork and win prize money. Entry forms due by 30 August, but you have until 11 September to perfect your artwork before it goes on display.

To enter or find more information, search ‘grandma moses’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

2024 Australia Day Award Nominations open

Nominations for Central Coast Council’s 2024 Australia Day Awards are now open. Award categories include Community group, Community life, Volunteer, Young Person, Senior Citizen. Winners in each category will go into the running to be named Central Coast Citizen of the Year.

Nominations accepted until 5pm Sunday 24 September.

For more information, search ‘Aus Day Awards’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Improving our regional sports complex

We continue improvements to ensure the Regional Sporting & Recreation Complex at Tuggerah remains a high quality, multiuse facility that attracts and meets the requirements for high calibre events. Playing surface improvements, new shelters and high ball netting are just some of the upgrades. The facility was recently the base camp for the German team as part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™ To learn more, search ‘regional sporting complex’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Calling on local community flood knowledge

Do you live in Kariong, Somersby or surrounding areas? Your local knowledge is integral to help us understand, plan for, and manage the risk of flooding in the area - as we develop the Somersby and Kariong Catchments Overland Flood Study.

To have your say on flooding in these areas, go to yourvoiceourcoast

Colliery Funding Program closing soon

Don’t miss out on applying to the Chain Valley Colliery Funding Program. Applicants can apply for up to $30,000 to deliver community projects in Summerland Point, Gwandalan, Chain Valley Bay, or Mannering Park. Applications close on the Thursday 31 August.

To apply now, search ‘colliery funding program’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Did you know?

We have several hidden gems to explore across the Coast

There are several community gardens, dog parks, parks and play spaces, reserves and lookouts across the Central Coast which are waiting to be explored! Unleash your inner gardener, immerse yourself in over 260 play spaces, or simply bask in the natural beauty of our stunning region with your family of friends.

For outdoor spaces near you, search ‘parks and reserves’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Outdated laws need to change

Just because something is law doesn’t mean it’s right or that we shouldn’t stand up against it.

For example, if no-one ever stood up and said “this isn’t right”, there would still be no vote for women and Indigenous people in Australia.

At some point, if we are to grow as a community, as a nation, we have to say: “That may well be the current law of the land, but we want a better, a fairer, land for our kids to grow up in”.

Currently in NSW we have legislation that says if Crown Land is unused or not required for use it can be given to an Aboriginal Land Council.

Currently in NSW we have a law that allows an Aboriginal Land Council to crush and destroy vital bushland, native habitat and endangered wildlife inthenameofself-determination.

Currently in NSW we have a law that says Local Aboriginal Land Councils can be run by non-local Aborigines who can ignore the voice of local Traditional Owners.

Currently in NSW we have a law that says only Aboriginal Land Councils and those with Native Title can be regarded, spoken to and listened to by our politicians.

If you are a traditional owner with ties to the land, but don’t have the white man’s piece of paper you have no voice.

Ask our NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris; he will confirm this.

Currently in NSW we have a law that says if you want to bulldoze native habitat of endangered species, if you want to kill even more of our endangered species then that’s OK as long as you transfer the biodiversity credits to another bit of bushland.

Which of course you can bulldoze later down the track; just move those credits somewhere else.

I am saying there is something erroneous about these laws.

I am saying these laws need to be changed if we are to move on as a community united and as a nation that cares about the planet and our children’s futures.

(While housing may be) a priority over the natural environment, if we wipe out all our trees, housing will be irrelevant.

Australia has the worst record in the so-called first world countries for clearing bushland and extinction of our wildlife.

Buyback scheme not the answer

But how do our local members respond to this?

Stand behind legislation that promotes its further destruction.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty and Member for Wyong David Harris are both in a unique position to be our champions, to lead the way to a fairer, greener future.

The Central Coast could be a showcase of what can be done to preserve the natural environment while our population grows.

They could table a motion now to say: “No more destruction of bushland”.

Surely, we can find some innovative and creative ways to build the housing you say we so desperately need while still preserving our bushland. Or would that be unprofitable?

My question is, who benefits from these policies, these housing and industry developments?

It certainly isn’t those in need of affordable housing; it certainly isn’t the natural environment.

I say we need to change these laws and quickly.

Email, Aug 16 Lisa Bellamy, Central Coast Environmental Advocacy Group

For the debacle that is the Wamberal Seawall, one option needs to be completely discounted – a buyback scheme.

Reading the recent article on the seawall brought two things to mind, one being the silliness of a proposed buy-back scheme which is making rounds and supported by the petition sponsor Abigail Boyd and, two, the total abandonment of the NSW Government on the matter.

I, for one, do not think the taxpayer should pick up the tab for any solution at Wamberal. Why should we, the taxpayer, pay the landowners (whose houses would be worth squillions) to purchase their homes and demolish them?

Nor can we force them out of their homes, which would not only be socialist in act, but morally wrong.

Any solution to the Wamberal

question should discount buybacks, and it is silly for politicians to be peddling this rubbish.

Hopefully the review announced by the Government provides answers on this and discounts it completely, but I seriously doubt it, which sends me to my second point.

I note the complete disregard the new Government has towards Wamberal.

I remember very clearly the Labor candidate Sam Boughton waving placards on Terrigal Dr saying he would stop the wall.

David Harris recently said that the new review into the Wamberal Wall will not prevent DAs being lodged that will allow the building of the wall.

Well I ask why were they saying they would stop the wall in the first place?

They now say it is Council’s responsibility.

They have fled for the hills and, like typical politicians, promise the world during an election but once rubber hits the road they make for the first turn off the freeway.

This probably explains why the Greens are sponsoring the petition – the only ones prepared to take a stand (however I just cannot get onboard with their stance of a buyback).

The Save our Sand (SOS) group raises valid concerns on Wamberal and whatever happens at Wamberal, all options need to be on the table for consideration (except of course the silly proposal of a buyback) and the community’s concerns must be heard.

I for one would like to see more investigation into dune regeneration and potentially a breakwater.

Email, Aug 14 Sebastian Cheng, Forresters Beach

Voice would have negative consequences

Firstly, thank you CCN for having a platform where both sides of debates are published.

And thank you to Mark Duffy (CCN 396) for his response to my previous letter.

In response to Klaas and Aafke Woldring (CCN 401), the reason the No Pamphlet is filled with negativity is because everything about the Voice has a negative consequence for our nation.

And I think if one doesn’t know the composition, powers and function of this Voice (which Albanese/Burney won’t clarify) then it is wise to be cautious and vote No.

And if one does know what this Voice will bring to Australia (as has been stated by various Voice advocates/activists) then you would also vote No.

Below is a small sample of what has been put forward.

Ms Burney says the government is committed to all three parts of the Uluru Statement from the Heart including a truth and treaty process.

Mr Albanese has stated numerous times that his Government is committed to the Uluru Statement from the Heart in full.

The Uluru Statement talks about three things: it talks about an enshrined Voice in the Constitution but it also talks about the establishment of a Makarrata commission (that the Albanese Govt committed $5.8M to in the October Budget) that would have two jobs — treaty and agreementmaking, and also truth-telling.

Mr Albanese denies the Voice is

about a treaty yet stated in his victory speech that the Uluru Statement from the Heart will be implemented in full by his government – and wore a T-shirt to a concert reading Voice, Treaty, Truth.

The Uluru Statement is not a short paragraph full of niceties.

It’s a 26 page document about bringing a highly contentious grievance against the nation of Australia.

You can read it at https://bit. ly/3DOdYhT

Then you have Thomas Mayo (Voice architect and militant unionist) and Teela Reid (Uluru Dialogue leader and member of the Voice Referendum Engagement Group) who have said it’s about rent, reparations, abolishing Australia Day and punishing politicians.

They have said “it is powerful”.

Teela Reid says the Voice is about “the fight for compensation and reparations”, “the first step in redistributing power” and she wants to get back to the “radical roots of the Communist Party”. Also,theAlbanese Government’s latest emotive word is “recognition”.

The Voice is not about ‘recognition’ as is sprouted by the Labor Government, as the Aboriginal people are already recognised 24 times in the Constitution as an integral part of the “people” of the states.

Yes, we are all “people” together – not two separate groups with one having its own “power”.

Every state and territory, as well as the federal parliament, has a minister for Aboriginal affairs who

liaises directly with many Indigenous organisations which themselves liaise with Indigenous Australians on the ground.

So if the Voice is rejected at the polls, Indigenous Australians will still have many voices to parliament and voices in parliament including their own as individuals.

Given that many Indigenous Australians live in cities, some in suburbs, some in regional areas, some in the outback; given that they range over the socioeconomic landscape; given that their genetic make-up is diverse; given that their upbringings, beliefs, tribal allegiances and religions are diverse; and given that they disagree widely over the Voice to Parliament, exactly whose “voice” will be enshrined in our Constitution?

The Voice isn’t about helping the real Aborigines who need help, it’s about Indigenous activists finally having a body in place to negotiate a treaty and gain reparations at a very costly price to our nation and us, the people.

This is far from a “purely advisory body” as stated by Woldring.

This is about voting for our country not to be divided and suffer at the hands of a group of Indigenous activists.

Vote No.

It’s not racist or unkind.

It’s loving our nation and keeping it safe.

It would be completely nonsensical to support this.

Blues and Roots Revival set for Dooralong

The Blues and Roots Revival music event is set to be held at the historic Dooralong Hall and Recreation Reserve on Saturday, September 9.

On the bill will be acclaimed Blues Rock bands, Owen Campbell and the Cosmic People and The Jesse Redwing Band, plus 2023 Blues Award winners, Chloe Kay and The Crusade and Central Coast Blues and Roots artist, Niksta.

Owen Campbell has cemented himself as one of Australia’s premier alternative blues/rock exports with three best-selling studio albums, two Eps and more than 12 years of national and international touring including the USA, Ireland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Spain, The Netherlands, Japan, Hong Kong and India.

Campbell and the Cosmic People have even performed at the highest blues festival in the world, The Himalayan Blues Festival in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Campbell’s debut album, Sunshine Road, was released in late 2013, reaching Number 1 on the overall charts (Australia), knocking Adele off the top spot in 2014.

Jesse Redwing is one of the most soulful and authentic blues players in Australia.

As well as touring Europe and the USA with his band, he has supported such acts as Cedric Burnside, Jon Cleary, Cold Chisel, The Teskey Brothers and Ana Popovic.

Redwing has released two original albums, Comin’ on and Light My Way, as well as two live records, Live and Lascivious and Blues on the Mountain, recorded right here on the Central Coast.

Chloe Kay has been compared to Bonnie Raitt, Joss Stone and Leon Bridges by Rolling Stone.

With rave reviews from Triple J, American Blues Scene (US), Classic Rock (US), Blues Matters (UK) and more, Chloe Kay and The Crusade are one of the very few Gen Z female fronted blues, soul, rock n roll bands on the Australian scene.

Niksta moved to the Central Coast with her family at the age of 12 and has grown to become one of the Central Coast’s finest alternative blues artists, releasing eight critically acclaimed albums and touring around Australia with her own shows as well as supporting acts such as Jon Stevens,

Xavier Rudd, Eskimo Joe and Pete Murray.

Event organiser Ryan Howard said young music fans and families often miss out when touring acts perform on the Coast, with most events being 18+ only.

“When organising Blues and Roots Revival one of the key elements was to create a boutique community focused live music event for the Central Coast that every age group could enjoy in a relaxed family friendly environment,” he said.

“Featuring some of Australia’s top touring blues and roots artists, along with one of our best local talents here on the Coast, this year’s Blues and Roots Revival is a unique event where you can bring your own picnic, dance and enjoy a great day of live music with friends and family in a picturesque hinterland location.”

Gates will open at 2pm, with live music from 3pm.

Food will be available to purchase or BYO.

Tickets to the event are limited and pre booking is recommended at trybooking. com/CGIBF

Source: Blues and Roots Revival

The family-friendly day will feature a top line-up including Owen Campbell (bottom left) - one of Australia’s top blues/rock exports

Central Coast Music & Arts will partner with Central Coast Council to present a new 10-day festival in the heart of Gosford and surrounding areas in November, with expressions of interest open until August 31.

Tubular is set to take place from November 16-26 and will activate the Gosford CBD and surrounding areas.

Inspired by sound, art, food, light, connection and community, Tubular aims to celebrate the creativity and cultural identities of the region, with hopes it will become an annual highlight in the Coast’s events calendar, fostering community engagement and promoting tourism.

Central Coast Music & Arts is a not-for-profit organisation which aims to develop the Coast’s contemporary music and arts scene, with the festival

New 10-day festival planned for Coast

designed to unite local community groups to enhance their own businesses whilst also bringing new and interesting ideas to the region.

The collaborative effort promises to bring an exceptional and immersive experience.

Artistic directors, multi award-winning and former Springfield based artist Ngaiire and her longtime manager, award-winning sound designer Ben Pierpont, will curate a dynamic lineup of key marquee events while activating new and exciting spaces suitable for all ages and interests.

Attendees can expect live music performances by renowned artists and local bands, pop-up art exhibitions and interactive and educational workshops to inspire creativity and innovation.

In addition to entertainment and arts, the festival will prioritise sustainability and

environmental responsibility throughout all the offerings.

“The Central Coast was the first place I’ve really felt at home for a long time and home has always been a complicated thing for someone like me who has moved around a lot,” Ngaiire said.

“I owe that to the incredible

community we found living up there.

“There’s a willingness to connect and build things together whether it’s friendships or projects and you don’t find that too much in the city.

“This festival has the potential to showcase this through its

many artistic offerings.

“Having worked all over the world from Istanbul to New York to Sydney in order to pursue a life in the arts, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of bringing an event like this back to my home turf.”

Pierpont said the 2023 festival would be an is an

Crossroads Chamber Music Festival returns

The Crossroads Chamber Music Festival returns to the Central Coast from September 8-10.

Fresh from playing at King Charles’ coronation, Australian violinist Madeleine Easton will headline the festival, presented by Central Coast Conservatorium of Music.

Bringing together local and international chamber musicians for a weekend of performances, this year’s festival will feature an exciting program of five concerts featuring one of Australia’s foremost concert pianists Phillip Shovk, violinist and Bach Akademie founder Easton, the Phoenix Collective Quartet and Central Coast’s Concertante

Ensemble chamber orchestra.

“Chamber music is at the heart of music making, it is passionate dialogue and conversation embodied in music,” Easton, who is artistic director for the event, said.

“The Crossroads Festival of Chamber Music has, at its heart, the desire to present music of the highest international standard right here on the Central Coast.

“This year’s festival presents a feast of chamber music over three days in and around Gosford, taking you on a journey through music and time.”

The festival will launch with a special gala opening night at Central Coast Conservatorium

in Mann St at 6pm on Friday, September 8, featuring an intimate violin and piano recital by Easton and Shovk. On Saturday there will be two

concerts held in the Robert Knox Hall.

In the morning, at 11am, Shovk will present works by Scarlatti, Schubert and three

pieces arranged by legendary American pianist and composer Earl Wild, including Three Etudes on Gershwin songs.

In the afternoon, the Phoenix Collective take to the stage at 3pm with a program that will include Haydn’s String Quartet in D Major (The Lark) and Dvorák’s ‘American’ String Quartet.

On Sunday Bach Akademie will present Bach on Sunday in the historic St Mary’s Chapel at Gosford for a morning concert at 11.30am.

The festival will finish with a closing concert at Gosford Anglican Church featuring the Concertante Ensemble at 3pm.

“I am so looking forward to performing in the newly

appetiser of long-term plans to highlight the Central Coast as a leading destination for the arts.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said Council was committed to providing support and opportunity to Central Coast organisations which create and deliver events.

“Tubular Music and Arts Festival in Gosford CBD will continue to deliver on the positive outcomes of the inaugural Central Coast Music Festival held in September 2022,” he said.

Tubular is seeking expressions of interest from performers, artists, workshop operators and vendors wanting to engage and participate in the event. For details on how to apply before August 31, email programming@tubularfestival. com

Source: Tubular Festival

renovated Robert Knox Hall at the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music,” Easton said.

“It is now a state of the art acoustic (space) which the whole region can be proud of and will truly showcase the talents of the internationally recognised artists that the Crossroads Festival of Chamber Music will present.

“The stunning St Mary’s Chapel, which dates back to 1853, will also provide a beautifully intimate setting for our Bach on Sunday concert.”

Sunday 10 September

Tickets are available at www. trybooking.com/CKVKL

Source: Central Coast Conservatorium

The competition is open to all residents of the former Wyong Shire.

Preliminary Judging begins on Monday 4th September, with Final Judging to commence on Thursday 7th September.

There are 12 Sections in the competition this year, which gives everyone a choice to enter one or more sections.

There are sections for individual homes as well as to suit schools, villages, business premises, resorts and clubs. On Wednesday 20th September there will be a Presentation Day and a Horticultural Competition at the Wyong Council Function Room at 2pm. Bring in plants etc 9-11am.

There will be an Open Garden Day on Sunday 24th September from 9am -4pm. A list of the gardens open that day will be published in this paper, and also available at the email below.

Come on all you keen gardeners - Have a Go!

There are trophies and gift vouchers for each section as well as a Grand Champion and Reserve Champion.

The vouchers are donated by local nurseries, garden supplies and some local businesses as well as local garden Clubs. Any other businesses who would like to come on board and support this competition please contact us on the info below.

The Tubular organising committee | Photo: Hayley Sing

Violinist Madeleine Easton

CROSSWORD

SEE PAGE 23 FOR LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

Salt House Creative will present Sense and Sensibility

With 8 Actors and a Door –eight actors wearing blacks and using a single prop (a door) to tell the classic tale.

The unique, fast-paced and comically energetic interpretation has been imagined by Salt House

Creative Artistic Director Daniel Widdowson.

The ensemble includes Widdowson, Sophie Booth, Emily Gobbe, Jayden Gobbe, Jordan Blake Blundell, Ethan Dale, Jane Sackman and Isabelle O’Brien.

Widdowson is an Australian of the Year finalist, an Australia Playwright finalist and recipient of the Best Director award at

Get your Jake and Elwood on when the Blues Brothers Show – House of Soul hits Laycock St Theatre on September 22.

The exciting hyperactive production pays tribute to the unforgettable and infectious style of soul music featured in the classic movie along with a faithful recreation of the two soul brothers who donned black hats and dark shades and created what is now a musical institution.

The high energy show

the Florence Film Awards and Best Screenplay at the New York Film Awards.

He serves as an ambassador for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation and has received the Collins Booksellers Arts Award.

He is the longest-running male host of the high rating children’s TV show Saturday Disney (2000-2007).

While at Network 7, Widdowson joined the writing team for Home and Away, presented the backyard renovation show Ground Force and performed at the Melbourne and Perth annual telethons.

His controversial black comedy about the global refugee crisis, Worm Farming, premiered at the National Museum of Australia in 2017.

The play’s success prompted him to join the Australian Writers’ Guild, where he now

serves as a judging panel member.

Widdowson has written more than 30 original stage plays which are freely available for

The Sense and Sensibility ensemble

schools and community across Australia.

His acting credits include Last King of the Cross, Colin From Accounts, Reef Break and Royal Fling Doctor Service and

later this year he will be seen in Total Control Season 3 as well as the new Australian drama Strife.

Stage credits include Henry V, Pride and Prejudice, The

Blues Brothers fun at Laycock St

features the finest soul, rhythm and blues classics by such artists as Solomon Burke, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, The Commitments, Marvin Gaye, Joe Cocker and more.

The Blues Brothers Show has played sold out shows in some of Sydney’s finest theatres and venues including The Basement, The Vanguard, Lizottes, auditoriums across NSW and multiple cruise liners around the world.

Get your ’70s glam on and head to the Hali

The audience will be treated to all the memorable songs featured in the Blues Brothers movie including Riders in the Sky, Gimmi Some Lovin’, Everybody Needs Somebody to Love, Shake a Tail Feather, Jailhouse Rock, Sweet Home Chicago, Minni the Moocher, Peter Gunn Theme and the theme from Rawhide.

Fronted by Shane Peters (Jake) and Christian Clackson (Elwood), the production is backed by some of Sydney’s top musicians.

As they take to the stage they recreate an authentic tribute to the Blues Brothers featuring the songs, moves and energy which audiences remember from the classic 1980 film. You can catch The Blues Brothers Show – House of Soul at Laycock St Community Theatre on Friday, September 22, at 8pm. Book on the theatre website.

Source: Premier Entertainment

Tragedy of Doctor Faustus and most recently The Sound of Music at Red Tree.

Widdowson holds a doctorate in Creative Arts focussing on Shakespearean literature and theology.

He is also a Bachelor of Theology.

All profits from the production will go the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation.

Founded by the author’s niece, Jane Knight, the not for profit organisation connects a world-wide community of people who believe in the power of literacy.

Sense and Sensibility with 8 Actors and a Door will be performed at the Red Tree Theatre at 2pm and 7pm on Saturday, September 30.

Bookings can be made at redtreetheatre.org.au

Source: Salt House Creative

The Blues Brothers Show is coming to Laycock St in September

Charming Family Home on 1100sqm block

This property is more than just a house; it's a place where you can create lasting memories and build your dream lifestyle. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a growing family, or someone who values space and convenience, this home has something special to offer.

The Glam show is headed to the Hali

Ferry, Sweet, Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel, Blondie, Suzi Quatro, Status Quo, Skyhooks and Supernaut to name a few.

Glam Bam Thank You Ma’m’ was created with extraordinary attention to detail, combining boutique pedals, vintage amps, organic bass and drum feel with outstanding vocals andharmonies.

Imported glam fashion and makeup complete this ’70s dynamic package which allows the act to deliver charismatic stars like Bowie, T.Rex, Bryan

Make sure to bring your flares, platforms, glitter and all things ’70s glam fashion when you visit the House of 70s Glam at the Halekulani Bowling Club. There will be a prize for the most creative look.

Doors open at 7.30pm. The first set is at 8pm and the second set is at 9.30pm.

Source: City Vibe Marketing

43 63 Discover Vietnam evening The Travellers Hut Tuesday 12 September 5.pm

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to experience the charm of this Wyee gem for yourself.

• Situated on a generous 1100 square meter block

• Potential subdivision - subject to council approval

• Oversized garage with convenient side access

• 3 bedrooms provide ample space for the whole family

• Nestled conveniently to nearby Wyee Train Station and arterial roads

• The stunning Lake Macquarie is just a stone’s throw away

AUCTION – Saturday

Creative new take on Jane Austen classic

Eight actors are set to take the stage at Tuggerah’s Red Tree Theatre in September to bring one of Jane Austen’s most loved pieces to life.

Sydney’s ’70s Glam Band is set to return to the Halekulani Bowling Club on September 2.

Central Coast Council is calling on local amateur artists over the age of 50 to enter its popular Grandma Moses Art Competition and Exhibition, hosted at Gosford’s 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre.

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the long-standing fixture on the cultural calendar is now in its 39th year.

“The competition takes inspiration from the life and work of American artist Anna Mary Moses, affectionately

Calling the Coast’s older artists

known as Grandma Moses, who created over 1,500 artworks between the ages of 78 and 101,” Smith said.

“It’s never too late to expand or learn new skills, and this is a great opportunity for our older residents to brush up on their painting or drawing skills, exhibit their artwork and potentially win.

“I encourage our older residents to enter, come along to the exhibition and find out what else is on offer through our 50+ Leisure and Learning Centres.”

There is more than $3,000 in prize money to be awarded across five categories, including Open, Watercolour, Novice, 50+ Centre/Senior

Centre Art Group Member and Central Coast Inspired.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the calibre of entries the competition attracts each

year is exceptional.

“These Central Coast residents have a deep well of talent and creativity to dip their paintbrushes into,” he said. “We want to celebrate that, and all the ways older people contribute to the cultural life of our community.”

Entries close on Wednesday, August 30, but artists will have until September 11 to submit the artwork.

Entrants must be aged 50 or over and be a resident of the Central Coast Local Government Area.

Get ready for a night of classic folk songs

Audiences will be treated to the Great Folk Songs of the 20th Century and new classic originals at a special performance by Maurie Mulheron and Pat Craigie and Dennis Aubrey at the Everglades Country Club on August 26 presented by the Troubador Folk Club.

Maurie Mulheron and Pat Craigie are two of the most enjoyable exponents of folk music in Australia.

They have appeared regularly at Australia’s peak folk festivals,

folk clubs, theatres and concert halls here and overseas, as well as at protest marches and on picket lines for over 40 years.

They are particularly wellknown for their re-imagining of the protest songs, love ballads, union hymns and work songs that were discovered during the worldwide folk revival of the 1960s.

It came as no surprise that they were chosen to be the opening act for Peter, Paul and Mary on their final Australian tour.

Together Maurie and Pat perform original songs and new arrangements of classic Australian and international folk songs.

As experienced performers with a background in theatre, their ability to connect with audiences through song, humour and stories has made them audience favourites in venues across the country.

Dennis Aubrey is the singing, ukulele playing poet of the Sydney streets, well known by Troubadour afficionados and other music lovers.

All entries will be exhibited at the Gosford 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre in Albany Street North from September 12-14.

The winners will be announced at the centre on Tuesday, September 12, at 10.30am.

For more information, entry forms and competition guidelines, search Grandma Moses at centralcoast.nsw. gov.au

Source: Central Coast Council

He’s also a fabulous song writer and solo performer.

His song, The Bag Lady’s Waltz, is surely one of the great Australian songs, and has been picked up and sung widely by famous artists.

There are many more gems in his treasure chest.

He knows how to bring a tear to your eye and is sure to make you tap your feet and sing along to some of his great choruses.

The show starts at 7pm.

Source: Troubadour Central Coast

Maurie Mulheron and Pat Craigie will perform at the Everglades Country Club

Hawkesbury by Gay Pickering won the Open Category last year

Business & Property

More consultation on proposed reserve reclassification

Central Coast Council will put the contentious issue of the proposed reclassification of Austin Butler Reserve at Woy Woy from community to operational land back out for more public consultation.

A proposal to reclassify the land to facilitate the expansion of the adjacent Peninsula Plaza shopping centre has sparked the ire of environmental groups and a community campaign of opposition spearheaded by Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch.

Council Administrator Rik Hart decided at Council’s August 22 meeting to put the matter back out for more consultation, with residents to be given two options.

The first option would see the land reclassified to allow for the shopping centre expansion, with proceeds of any sale of the land to go towards a major greening program on the Peninsula.

The second option would be for the land to retain its community land classification.

The shopping centre owner

and major tenant, Woolworths, have expressed concerns about the viability of future operations in relation to current arrangements for the loading dock, with Woolies saying it will not reinvest in expansion unless the problem can be solved.

“This land is currently occupied by around 40 trees, some of which would need to be removed to mitigate these risks (and would be subject to a separate development assessment process),” Hart said.

He said he had received 28 emails on the issue in the 24 hours prior to the meeting, with 65 per cent of correspondents saying their major concern was around climate change and heat island impacts.

“I have heard from dozens of community members about the importance of the trees on this site, and more broadly, about the lack of mature shade trees throughout Woy Woy and the peninsula,” Hart said.

He said a greening program funded by any proceeds from

sale of the land could see thousands of trees planted in streets around the area.

“The community needs to decide if it wants to sacrifice 3040 trees (at Austin Butler Reserve) for thousands of trees,” he said.

“I would ask everyone to consider how future generations will view the decision made.”

Hart said he would be guided by public feedback.

“Considering the value of this land is in the millions of dollars, the resultant greening program (delivering thousands of trees) would be fully funded and could deliver a significant, long-term, and meaningful boost to canopy cover, shade, and mature trees in the local area,” he said.

“A greening program would go a very long way to offsetting the heat impacts associated with reduced tree canopy and climate change.

“In short, the proposal is to sacrifice a few dozen mature trees now, for the benefit of thousands of trees planted in the area over the next 10 years

which would provide a substantial benefit for future generations.

“I encourage the community to think about the short and long-term impacts of each option before having their say.

“This is a chance for the community to have a measurable impact on the future of their area.”

But Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch says the move is an attempt to “blackmail” the Peninsula community.

“The Peninsula has already been identified as the area of greatest heat impact on the Coast,” she said.

“Council already has a responsibility to re-green the area.

“Planting trees on the Peninsula should not rely on the sale of a public park.

“The community has already made it very clear they want to retain Austin Butler Reserve.”

Tesch said Council should be providing more support and communication for groups such as GUST in seeing more trees

planted in the area. She is urging community members to continue the fight to protect the significant stand of paperbark and she oak trees in Austin Butler Reserve.

“The Peninsula’s environmental problems are already well documented, as is ongoing tree loss due to development and issues such as the urban heat island effect,” she said.

“We need to continue working together as a community…to oppose the possible removal of this unique stand of trees – one of a dwindling number on the Peninsula.”

Tesch’s Save Our Austin Butler Trees petition can be found at https://www.liesltesch.com.au/ community/petitions/petitions/ The petition can be signed in person at Tesch’s office at 20 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy.

Save Central Coast Reserves founder Sue Chidgey said a huge diversity of bird life depends on the dozens of mature trees within the reserve.

“These trees also provide an

important place for local shopping centre workers to recharge in their breaks within nature,” she said.

“The Council’s plan to sell this reserve directly to the shopping centre for its development is against the core principles of protecting and maintaining community assets for the current and future well-being of residents and the vital importance of cherishing our local environment of both flora and fauna.”

The Community Environment Network has described the proposal to reclassify the land as “massive breach of the community’s trust”, saying its stand of paperbark and she oak is the last natural shade in the town centre.

CEN Executive Member, Joy Cooper, said Peninsula Plaza has had more than 30 years to fix its loading dock.

“It is not up to Central Coast Council to provide Woolworths with a cheap solution,” she said.

Terry Collins

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch says the reserve must remain in public ownership

Lighthouse reserve is back in business

Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve is ready to welcome visitors from all parts of the country following the completion of more than $400,000 in upgrades.

One of the Central Coast’s most iconic Crown land sites, the reserve’s most recent improvements were supported with funding from Crown Lands and its Crown Reserves Improvement fund.

They included repairs, maintenance and repainting of keepers’ quarters and installation of a new security gate.

The lighthouse, built for 24,000 English pounds in 1903, has had a distinguished life as a working lighthouse protecting coastal shipping, as well as being a popular tourist drawcard.

The lighthouse and its reserve attract more than 100,000 visitors each year for coastal sightseeing and whale watching, and it is a hot spot for weddings, having been previously named the Best DIY wedding venue at the Brides Choice Awards.

Visitors can sample life as a lighthouse keeper by staying in furnished keepers’ cottages which offer sweeping sea views a short walking distance from beaches and rock pools, located on almost 20 hectares of coastal nature reserve.

Norah Head Lighthouse is one of thousands of Crown land reserves across NSW which are supported by volunteers.

Reflections Holiday Parks will formally begin its role as Crown land manager of Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve in September, working with local

Flood study for Somersby and Kariong

Central Coast Council has commenced its Somersby and Kariong Catchments

Overland Flood Study and is calling on residents to participate in an online survey to help provide a better understanding of overland flooding in the area.

The survey is open until Sunday, September 22.

It asks for details, including photos and videos, of flooding experienced through: floodwater rising from a local creek/waterway; waters originating from local roads; overflow from local basins; water pooling in a low point; overflow from blocked drains; or other ways.

Council Director of Environment and Planning

Alice Howe said the results of the survey would help Council better understand, plan for, and manage the risk of flooding across the Kariong and Somersby catchment areas.

“Strategic flood studies and

plans are used by Council to appropriately manage development within Central Coast floodplains and to guide mitigation works (under the NSW Government’s Flood Prone Land Policy),” she said.

“We have engaged a specialist flood consultant to develop a Flood Study for the Kariong and Somersby catchment area, which will define the nature of overland flooding and provide a comprehensive technical understanding of flood

behaviours and their associated risks.

“The study area consists of the Kariong residential area, the Somersby industrial area and the rural residential area immediately to its north.

“Whilst these are elevated areas, they may still be susceptible to short intense bursts of rainfall that produce flash flooding which can impact road access, damage property, and hinder emergency response.

“There is limited flood information currently available for these areas, so this initial stage of engaging with our community to gather local knowledge of lived experiences is an integral part in the development of the Flood Study.

“The Flood Study around Somersby and Kariong is an important step in the floodplain risk management process.

“Once finalised, Council will use the study as a foundation

to develop a Floodplain Risk Management Plan and propose options to mitigate the effects of flooding in the area.

“More opportunities will be provided for the community to have their say on the best options for flood mitigation in their local area.”

Council recently adopted the Woy Woy Peninsula Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan following community review and feedback to the draft documents.

The final recommendations with the highest priorities are land use and development control planning, landform adaptation and flood education programs, plus additional recommendations.

Administrator Rik Hart said Council is invested in working with the community to build a more resilient region with improved flood risk management.

“Community involvement is essential to the success of the Somersby and Kariong

volunteers to protect and maintain the headland for continued community access and enjoyment.

“Powered by volunteers, Norah Head Lighthouse is of great historical significance to the Central Coast with 120 years of local history,” Member for Wyong David Harris said.

“It is loved by locals and visitors alike and we want to keep it in great shape so it can be enjoyed now and in the future.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said Crown land reserves play an instrumental role in supporting communities with everything from working lighthouses to parks, ovals, showgrounds and community halls.

floodplain risk management process,” he said.

“Community engagement will ensure that local knowledge of flood behaviour and community opinion will help guide future planning and mitigation works.”

The Somersby and Kariong Catchments Overland Flood Study is funded by the NSW Government and Council.

To have your say on flooding in the Kariong and Somersby catchment areas, go to yourvoiceourcoast.com by September 22.

To find completed Floodplain Risk Management Plans for the Central Coast Local Government Area, search ‘plans and strategies’ at centralcoast. nsw.com.au

For online flood risk tools and other resources and information to help plan and prepare for flooding, search ‘flooding’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Source: NSW Government

Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve has had a $400,000 upgrade

Source: Central Coast Council

The study will cover the Somersby and Kariong catchments

Nick Fagan

Top criminal lawyer returns to Coast

One of the Central Coast’s top and longest standing law firms, Tonkin Drysdale Partners, has welcomed back former team member and leading criminal lawyer Nick Fagan.

Fagan returns as Special Counsel and head of the Criminal Law Team.

He previously practiced at Tonkin Drysdale Partners for over three years prior to taking up a senior position at the

Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) in 2021.

Gaining invaluable experience during his time at the ODPP, Fagan worked across some of the most serious and highprofile criminal cases in NSW, including murder, manslaughter, sexual assault, and large-scale drug supply cases.

He now brings his extraordinary experience back to Tonkin Drysdale Partners, priding himself on providing

high quality legal advice and strong representation.

Managing Partner of Tonkin Drysdale Partners, Paul Tonkin, said Fagan embodies the values the firm prides itself on as a leading legal firm on the Central Coast.

“We look forward to using his expertise to continue to provide our clients with high quality representation at court,” he said.

Fagan said he was confident

that after working on both sides of the bar table, his knowledge and skills would be an asset to the firm.

“I am thrilled to be back at Tonkin Drysdale Partners, where I can use my experience from the ODPP to provide our clients with exceptional representation in Court to achieve the best possible outcomes,” he said.

Source: Brilliant Logic

Central Coast business delivers for Daffodil Day

Central Coast courier Waine Vella has a special motivation to help the Cancer Council with its annual spring fundraiser, Daffodil Day on August 31.

The day will be especially poignant for the 43-year-old Aramex courier franchisee who lost his wife Chelsea, aged just 43, to ovarian cancer in March last year.

Vella, of Kariong, and their two teenage children were devastated by the loss, which came four years after diagnosis.

“It’s been pretty tough, but

you have to find a way through it,” he said.

Aramex Central Coast regional franchisee Louie Dimitriv said he was glad to help the Cancer Council ensure thousands of the spring flowers were delivered to the charity’s supporters for Daffodil Day.

Having lost his dad to melanoma, Dimitrov said he was well aware of the terrible toll cancer takes on families and the community.

Aramex’s regional vice president (Oceania) Andy van der Velde said the company was absolutely delighted to

Public Notice

Fox Control Program 2023-24 in Council Natural Areas

once again partner with the Cancer Council to deliver flowers for Daffodil Day.

“I urge everyone to get behind Daffodil Day and send a message of hope to everyone affected by cancer, or working hard to make it history,” he said.

Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day site delivery lead Bobbie Crosland said it was hoped this year’s annual fundraiser would generate more than $2.5M in donations.

“For all that cancer takes, give all you can this Daffodil Day,” she said.

“The daffodil is the international symbol of hope for everyone impacted by cancer.

“A big thank you to Aramex for supporting us in delivering our daffodils across NSW.

“Every dollar raised through Daffodil Day helps fund worldclass cancer research, saving lives and bringing us closer to a cancer-free future.”

The Cancer Council will run a stall on August 31 at Erina Fair from 9.30am to 4pm

Call for businesses to enter window display competition

Central Coast Council will be conducting a fox control program in Council natural areas between 28 August 2023 and 28 June 2024 at the following locations: Picnic Point Reserve at The Entrance, Karagi Point The Entrance North, Magenta and Soldiers Beach and priority reserves in the following suburbs: Killcare, Bensville, Kincumber, Saratoga, Green Point, North Avoca, Springfield, Holgate, Matcham, Mt Elliot, Fountaindale and Berkeley Vale.

Additional priority reserves may be added to the program during 2023-24 if fox activity is confirmed. Adjoining residents will be notified in advance.

Predation by foxes is a key threat to many native animals and this program aims to reduce the impact on our local wildlife, including threatened and migratory species.

Warning signs will be placed at public access points to inform the community when operations are in progress. The community are advised to not enter any area, or allow pets to enter, when warning signs are in place.

Dog owners must comply with any signage indicating dogs are prohibited in an area otherwise enforcement action may ensue.

For further information, including a map of reserve locations, visit Council’s website centralcoast.nsw.gov.au and search ‘pest animals’ or phone 02 4306 7900

Council Office 2 Hely St / PO Box 20 Wyong NSW 2259

8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday | P 02 4306 7900

Chief Executive Officer David Farmer

The call has gone out for all local businesses with street frontage to join the Coastal Twist Festival window display competition for 2023.

The seven-day festival highlighting LGBTQIA+ arts and culture from across the region attracted more than 9,500 people to the Central Coast last year.

The theme for this year’s festival is Inclusion Means You – a call for all to join in nurturing

a culture of respect for a happier, healthier and more welcoming Central Coast.

Entering the competition is one way to show your customers and community that a business supports the inclusion of everybody, with some top prizes up for grabs.

First prize is a Hit101.3

Promotional Package valued at $1,500.

Second prize winner will take home an advertising campaign with Central Coast Newspapers

valued at $760 and third prize is Signarama printing services including outdoor signage valued at $500.

All you have to do is visit the Coastal Twist website by Friday, September 8, and dress your shopfront in your own unique rainbow/glitter/vibrant way from September 25-October 2.

For more information and to enter, go to https://coastaltwist. org.au/shopfront/

The rainbow window at Central Coast Antiques & Collectables last year

Source: Aramex Waine Vella with his late wife and their two children

Library contract awarded to local construction company

The construction contract for the new Gosford Regional Library has been awarded to local company North Construction & Building, with local sub-contractors to be employed, keeping money local and supporting regional employment.

The announcement was made by Central Coast council on August 21.

“The new Regional Library will be the first of its kind for the Central Coast and will offer an iconic building in the heart of the Gosford central business district, where the community can connect,create and collaborate,” Council Administrator Rik Hart said.

“To be designed over four

spacious levels, it is a truly modern facility offering more than essential books and literacy.

“It also will be very much the heart of an active and connected community, with spaces for children, for study and focus, dedicated meeting rooms, function space, innovation areas for creative work and much more.

“This next step is a celebration of the continuing growth and development of Gosford, and ultimately the Central Coast, to be a first-class region for employment, education, health and tourism.”

The project is jointly funded with $7M from the Australian Government’s Community Development Grant Program and Council’s collection of

developer contributions, special levies (collected by former Gosford City Council) and Council funds restricted to this project.

Hart said the project is still on track for completion by the end of 2024.

North Construction Managing

Director Matthew Cook said the Regional Library is a significant project for the local Central Coast community and one the company is very excited to be delivering.

“We appreciate the long history of this project and the high level of community interest and expectation involved,” he said.

“Our Tuggerah-based team and local trade contractors are looking forward to getting started and bringing this impressive development to completion.”

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the Australian Government was proud to help support the project.

“Construction of the new

Gosford Regional Library is another piece in the puzzle in getting Gosford’s revitalisation underway,” he said.

“Libraries are important community centres and provide access to information,education, entertainment and so much more.

“I look forward to watching this project progress and the impact it will have strengthening Gosford’s CBD.”

For more information including frequently asked questions (FAQs), concept plans and all updates on the project visit www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ council/council-news/gosfordregional-library-project

Source: Central Coast Council

Raising funds for seriously ill children and their families

MISSING LINK

Throughout the month of August, McDonald’s restaurants across northern NSW and the Central Coast will raise essential funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW (RMCH NNSW) by selling $2 charity bikes.

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

All funds raised will help RMCH NNSW support seriously ill and injured children and their families

by providing access to programs such as Ronald McDonald houses, family rooms, family retreats and the Ronald McDonald learning program. McDonald’s Wyong and Tuggerah are just two of the 76 restaurants across northern NSW calling on locals to show their support by purchasing a charity bike.

“Every year, we are blown

away by the generosity of our customers who passionately support Ronald McDonald House Charities and the work they do for seriously ill or injured children,” McDonald’s licensee Ron Mussalli said.

“Adding a $2 charity bike to your Macca’s order will go a long way in supporting RMHC, helping the charity to continue to provide a home away from home for

families during their time of need.

“So, head down to your local Macca’s this August and help us make a difference to seriously ill or injured children and their families across northern NSW.”

With the help of generous customers, McDonald’s has raised over $310,000 for RMCH NNSW over the past three years through the charity bike fundraiser.

This year, the charity bikes will also be sold in the lead up to RMCH NNSW’s annual Ride for Sick Kids, contributing to the event’s fundraising total. The fundraiser will see a team of up to 25 riders cycle over 500km from Grafton to Newcastle between September 5 and 9 with the aim of raising $200,000.

From left: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, Council Administrator Rik Hart, Council CEO David Farmer and North Construction Managing Director Matthew Cook at the announcement

‘Hawkesbury’ by Gay Pickering (2022 winner of the Open Category)

Source: McDonald’s Australia

Ron Mussalli

How investors can start small but think big

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

Investing in equities was once the domain of people with deep pockets and the knowhow to navigate the process.

But these days, technological developments such as online trading, coupled with lower investment costs and minimum investment requirements, have opened up the world of investing.

These developments have also helped pave the way for the emergence of micro-investing – a strategy enabling individuals to invest small amounts of money regularly over time.

“We’ve seen a big push towards democratising financial assets and different investment classes so that it’s not only the high-net-worth investors that are benefiting from the best financial products in Australia,” says Gaby Rosenberg, chief executive of micro-savings platform Blossom.

“We’ve seen that in Australian equities, global equities and even crypto and property, and it just means that people who have

smaller amounts can still participate in the best opportunities. How micro-investing works

These platforms allow users to invest in assets such as exchange traded funds (ETFs), fixed-income products and fractional shares with smaller than usual amounts of money – sometimes only a few dollars at a time.

Nick Nicolaides, chief executive of the investment platform Pearler, which offers both direct share purchases and a micro-investing option, says it potentially provides an earlier entry point to the market for some investors.

“From our perspective, we’ve always tried to focus on how we can make sensible investing more accessible.

“Our angle has always been that [micro-investing] is a fantastic tool to learn from because it enables someone to get in earlier – perhaps as they’ve just started earning money and potentially as their first investment.”

In a report last year, the invest-

ing service provider Cache Invest put the number of Australian micro-investing accounts at just over 2 million at June 30, 2022 –an 845,000 increase on 2021.

The number of providers is also growing. In the 2021-22 financial year, Cache Invest reports there were six new entrants in the micro-investing market, including both Blossom and Pearler Micro, which joined established players CommSec Pocket and Raiz. Investing on autopilot Convenience is another attraction of micro-investing.

In the way banks have made building up savings easier in recent years with automatic transfers and round-ups, many micro-investing platforms have rolled out comparable features.

For instance, Blossom users can link their bank and investing accounts and enable transactions to be rounded up to $1, $2, $5 or $10, with the difference then invested into the Blossom account once the cumulative round-up balance hits at least $5.

“We have set-and-forget functionality that we really see adds a lot of value to our users because it just helps to build good financial habits,” says Rosenberg.

“And then just the virtue of

It's critical for our green future

The new energy revolution is well under way, with countries around the world vying for control over one of the world's critical resources - lithium.

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in portable electronics, electric vehicles (EVs) and grid-scale energy storage systems.

These batteries are lightweight and rechargeable, and have a

high energy density compared to other types of batteries.

Density is an important consideration because it tells us how much energy can be stored in a given amount of space or weight.

Batteries need to store as much energy as possible in a small and lightweight package.

The higher the energy density of a battery, the more energy it can store per unit of weight or

volume, which means that it can power devices for longer periods or allow electric vehicles to travel further on a single charge. However, electric batteries require large amounts of lithium.

The average EV battery requires between 10 and 15 kilograms of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE), while grid-scale storage systems can require thousands of tonnes.

the round-ups being such small value means that people can get started with $5, $10 or $15.

"It’s simple, it’s convenient and it helps people save regularly in small but consistent ways.”

Glen Hare, a financial adviser and the co-founder of Fox & Hare, says he’s had a fair number of clients over the years who have invested through a platform.

While he believes platforms have made investing more accessible, he’s challenged by the idea of people entering the market without a sound knowledge of the assets they're investing in, or without any goals.

“In terms of the interfaces, the accessibility and the minimum trades, they’ve made it accessible

Reserves are concentrated in a few countries, including Australia, Chile, Argentina and China.

Lithium resources occur in two distinct categories: lithium minerals (largely from the mineral spodumene) and salts (largely from lithium-rich brines in salt lakes).

All of Australia’s current resources and production are from lithium minerals, chiefly spodumene, while lithium brine is produced predominantly in

for those in their 20s or 30s who want to start exploring options beyond just leaving their money in a bank account,” says Hare.

“[But] I’m a firm believer that you should be aligning investment strategies with goals and objectives, rather than just building wealth – which is obviously great – just for the sake of it."

Cost versus convenience

Micro-investing is not without its costs, which differ from platform to platform, but typically investors can expect to pay either a brokerage fee for each trade (for example, CommSec Pocket charges $2 per trade) or an account fee (Raiz charges from $3.50 a month).

These fees may not sound particularly high, but given the small

Chile, followed by Argentina, China and the US.

In Australia, Allkem (ASX: AKE) proposes to merge with Livent, a smaller US-based competitor. If the merger goes ahead, Allkem will become the third largest global supplier of lithium chemicals.

Livent's capabilities in direct lithium extraction (DLE) will add considerably to Allkem’s processing capability. This could boost the availability

amounts being invested, they can prove more expensive, relatively, than those for direct investing.

It’s just one of the trade-offs for the convenience and accessibility of being able to invest smaller amounts.

What’s more, some platforms charge higher fees or a higher percentage as the balance grows.

That’s why Hare suggests investors consider their options once they’ve built up a healthy micro-investment balance.

“Micro-investing might be a small component of someone’s broader strategy, but as the balances increase in these microinvestment platforms, so do the fees,” he says.

TOM WATSON

of lithium derived from brine, potentially close to doubling both the production and yield.

Investors can also gain exposure to lithium through a broad-based exchange traded fund, Battery Tech & Lithium (ACDC), which invests in companies throughout the lithium cycle, including mining, refinement and battery production.

MAX RIAZ, INVESTMENT MANAGER, BANYANTREE GROUP

Helping youngsters reach their Max Potential

The Gosford RSL Max Potential celebration event was held recently with hundreds of community member celebrating the achievements and personal leadership growth of the Coast’s future community leaders.

Facilitated by Gosford RSL Club, the Max Potential Leadership Development Program connected young adults from 14 schools on the Coast with local community and business leaders who have been trained as coaches.

Each young person has been on a transformative six-month personal leadership journey with Max Potential.

With the support of community coaches they have grown in their confidence, achieved goals and applied leadership principles to strengthen their thinking and develop good habits.

Each of them delivered a

Community Service Pitch developed during the program and in response to what each saw as a need in our community. Guest speakers included Gosford RSL Club CEO Russell Cooper and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, both of

whom encouraged students, coaches and the community to strive for their goals and dreams.

A personal reflection video from Lian Sequeira f Gosford High School titled I am a puzzle still in progress – not perfect

but getting there piece by piece was a highlight.

Sofia Harper’s Community Service Pitch outlined the development of an NFP organisation which crochets beanies to give to cancer patients.

Daniel de Lore of Green Point Christian College told of the incredible opportunity he has had to be a part of Max Potential, and how grateful and proud he is of his growth, learnings and the deep changes he has made.

UDIA welcomes new focus on housing

Chair of the Central Coast Chapter of Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), Caine King, has welcomed an announcement from the State Government that the Department of Planning and Environment is to become two new departments to better deliver on the Government’s priorities of addressing the energy challenges, climate change, the environment and housing.

From January 1, 2024, two new departments will come into effect: the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

King said UDIA welcomes the focus on housing delivery, and the acknowledgement that infrastructure must be planned

to enable housing that serves the community’s needs.

“We have a housing crisis on the Central Coast and solving this crisis requires us all to work together,” he said.

“NSW has accepted the challenge from the Albanese Government to build 75,600 new homes a year in NSW to meet the new national housing target.

“That target is 60 per cent higher than what was delivered last year.

“Unfortunately, on the Central Coast, we are well behind meeting even our current targets.

“According to the Central Coast Regional Plan, our current working target is 1,625 new homes per year.

“The Department of Planning reports we only delivered 1,169 new homes last year, and our approvals are tracking below

the previous five-year average.

“We caution that housing is not just the responsibility of the Planning Minister and the Housing Minister, but rather nine Ministerial portfolios have a role in city shaping and housing delivery, including the Minister for Environment.

“Our local Council also has an important role to play.

“We need Central Coast Council to work collaboratively with State Government departments and agencies, and also with industry, to meet the dual challenges of housing delivery and sustainability.

“For the Central Coast, we are pleased: that the Department of Planning has established a Central Coast Urban

AVOIDING ESTATE PLANNING TRAPS

Development Program (UDP) Committee which brings together state and local authorities to align infrastructure and environmental approvals to unlock more housing for the Coast; and that the State Government is investing in a Strategic Conservation Plan for the Central Coast, so we can ensure we protect our local biodiversity while also finding the right places to build new homes.”

King said the Government must now act quickly to turn on all the available mechanisms and get the policy settings right so industry can move quickly to build the houses needed.

“UDIA has consistently advocated for increased funding for enabling infrastructure like water and sewerage to unlock new homes and the $500 million Housing Support Program may provide

Community Coach Heidi Iveson has coached eight young adults over the years and has seen first hand their increase in confidence, organisational skills and improved leadership capability as they understand their selfworth and belief in themselves. She reflected on how privileged she has been to learn the art of coaching, receive personal coaching from a qualified coach, give back to the community and see young adults realise their potential and reach their goals and dreams.

Each school, sponsor, community coach and young adult was presented with a certificate.

Source: Gosford RSL

opportunities for Central Coast to kick-start housing supply locally,” he said.

“Both the NSW Government and Central Coast Council must ensure their very genuine commitments to deliver new housing aren’t undermined by unnecessary and ill-timed new housing costs which will simply put the great Australian dream further out of reach for prospective home buyers. Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the Government had inherited a housing crisis more than a decade in the making and the new departmental structure, together with new planning rules which encourage the construction of more homes and infrastructure contribution reforms would hone the housing delivery focus.

Terry Collins

WHERE: Mingara Recreation Club

WHEN: 29 August 2023

TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm

WHERE: Ettalong Diggers

WHEN: 5 September 2023

TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm

Caine King says the Central Coast is falling behind current housing targets

The theme is to educate people about the options and choices available to them… alerting you to the pitfalls and procedures in dealing with Estate Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney & Appointments of Guardian and how you should best deal with them.

Brazel, Solicitor, will present the seminar on Wills, Powers of Attorney & Appointments of Guardian to help you through the maze of legal regulation.

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

be helped a lot in understanding the system and

Each participant received a certificate

After seven years on a disability pension with NDIS supports, Central Coast resident Stephen Nisbet has transitioned to open employment with Aruma.

While current statistics estimate that 200 Australians join the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) daily, some, like Nisbet, are also exiting.

When the NDIS was created a decade ago, it was anticipated that some people with a disability would leave the scheme after they had gained the skills, confidence and external supports needed to live well without NDIS support.

The NDIS Annual Financial Sustainability Report 2021-22 outlines that on average, 2 per cent of NDIS participants were forecasted to leave the scheme. However, since 2018, exit

Improving mental well-being through art

Central Coast artist Angela Miller is on a mission to combat the negative effects of technology on mental well-being by reigniting the flame of imagination through her captivating artwork and online courses.

Described as a visionary artist and advocate for the transformative power of creativity, Miller believes art is the antidote to the monotony of daily routines and an overreliance on technology.

As a former university art teacher, Miller’s innovative approach goes beyond traditional art classes.

Miller said she used art as a

form of meditation and therapy, guiding participants on a transformative journey of selfdiscovery, emotional healing and rejuvenation in a safe and supportive environment – their own home with her expert guidance.

“Art has been my saving grace during the most challenging years of my life,” she said.

“I felt compelled to share it with others who may be struggling too.

“It’s not about the finished product, but the journey of selfdiscovery that art can take you one when used as a tool to heal and empower, especially when life may feel difficult.”

Miller said she never knew

Return to full-time work for Stephen

rates have been as low as 0.6 per cent; last year only 1 per cent exited the scheme.

“It’s been a journey to get to the point I’m at today,” Nisbet said.

“I did always want to get back into open employment but for a long time I didn’t know what that would look like.”

Stephen Nisbit

Aruma is one of Australia’s largest not-for-profit disability service providers, currently supporting 5,500 adults and children with a disability.

It provides a range of services, including supported employment, where around 500 individuals have found not just a job but an environment where they can learn new skills, make friends, and belong to a community.

After working 18-hour days for nine months in a highpressure strategic consulting, engineering and project

delivery role, Nisbet, who has bipolar disorder, suffered occupational burnout, leaving him unable to work.

In 2017, he began accessing social and community participation, as well as employment funding from the

NDIS.

This allowed him to attain a diploma in Information Technology and find supported employment at Aruma.

“I joined Aruma as a Supported Employee and started working two days a week in their

packaging business,” he said.

“Eventually, my colleagues heard about my finance and IT background, and I was offered a role in the IT department.”

As Nisbet felt more comfortable and the team’s workload expanded, he increased his hours and eventually began working three, four, and now five days per week.

“Aruma has supported me to reach my full potential and has enabled me to get to this point where I feel confident moving into full-time employment,” Nisbet said.

“I also feel ready to let go of my support pension and the employment parts of my NDIS plan.”

Aruma CEO and former NDIS Board Member Dr Martin Laverty said stories about people exiting the NDIS are not often heard.

“We’re thrilled for Stephen

Hospital Auxiliary does an amazing job

On the first Thursday of every month in the busy foyer of Gosford Hospital it’s hard to miss the tables piled high with colourful hand-stitched quilts, soft winter blankets and cute baby toys.

Not to mention the variety of home-baked goodies tempting passers-by with about 150 containers’ worth of food. These goods – along with beanies and tea cosies – are among the items lovingly produced and sold at Gosford Hospital by volunteers with Gosford Hospital Auxiliary every month.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch applauded the friendly atmosphere and enthusiastic

fundraising efforts of the Auxiliary, which began in 1944.

“The Auxiliary’s efforts in raising valuable funds for medical and therapeutic equipment at Gosford Hospital are truly outstanding,” Tesch said.

“Their ongoing contributions make a real difference to patients, to families and to hospital staff.

“If you’re going to Gosford Hospital, it only takes a second to stop by the Auxiliary’s stall and say hello to the ladies.

“You might even take home something special and unique for a family member or friend.”

The Gosford Hospital Auxiliary is currently on the hunt for volunteers who add a variety of

skillsets, spokesperson Brenda Hall said.

“We have skills such as sewing, knitting, quilting, but we also need people just to help man the stall, to come to meetings and to bring along a few fresh new ideas,” she said.

“Everybody’s welcome.”

The Gosford Hospital Auxiliary stall can be found in the Gosford Hospital foyer on the first Thursday of every month.

The Auxiliary meets on the third Thursday of every month.

Interested volunteers can contact the Gosford Hospital Auxiliary on 43202146 or email gosfordauxiliary@gmail.com

what she was going to paint when she started a work, instead beginning with a colour and style that felt right.

“Through my courses, I strive to help individuals reconnect with their innate creative brilliance, and in doing so, reclaim their balance and wellbeing,” she said.

Her online courses are accessible to anyone, and she also offers a monthly subscription package which allows self-paced learning and a connection to her community each week with video calls. For more information visit angemillerart.com.au

Source: CCN

and Aruma is privileged to be part of his journey to open employment and downsizing some of his NDIS supports,” Laverty said.

“Unfortunately, the reality is that the NDIS has become the only lifeline for Australians with a disability.

“It’s no wonder people are not exiting the scheme – they simply have no other place to turn to.

“This is something that NDIS Review needs to address.”

Nisbet said he was grateful to be able to access the NDIS when he needed it.

“The NDIS has been an amazing lifeline for me,” he said.

“It enabled me to do things I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do, and it supported me when I had no other options.”

Source: Aruma

Angela Miller with one of her artworks

Stephen Nisbet has returned to full-time employment

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with members of the Hospital Auxiliary

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

An Old-Fashioned Favourite Returns –Zinnias!

Small farms are gradually turning over to including cut flower crops as imported flowers first stopped due to the recent pandemic and then became very expensive due to rising shipping costs. Flower lovers too have become more responsible in their choices and the desire to source more sustainably grown produce as well as flowers rises.

The trickle-down effect has begun, and more home gardeners are dedicating beds to not only flower gardens for their in-garden aesthetic but also to producing armfuls of cut flowers ready for bunching up and using around the home or for giving. The more entrepreneurial gardeners are turning their cut-flower hobby into a side hustle.

The trick is knowing what’s hot in the flower world and the trends are leaning towards old-fashioned favourites that are now enjoying starring

roles in the latest seed catalogues. While Dahlias were all the rage for the past few years, another beauty is enjoying increasing popularity, the bright and bubbly zinnia!

Zinnia History

Native to North and South America zinnias are believed to have originated in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They were cultivated by various Native American tribes, including the Aztecs, who called them “Cacaloxochitl.” In Mexico, zinnias have a deep cultural significance and are often associated, along with the marigold flower, with Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) celebrations. Both marigolds and zinnias are used to decorate altars and graves as offerings to honour deceased loved ones.

Introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers and

conquerors in the late 18th century. The first known description of zinnias in European botanical literature was by the German botanist Johann Gottfried Zinn, for whom the plant was named. Zinn published his observations in 1757, which led to the scientific naming of the genus “Zinnia.”

Zinnias initially gained popularity as a garden plant in Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries due to their bright and attractive flowers. They continued to evolve through selective breeding, leading to a wide range of cultivars with varying flower colours, sizes, and forms.

Growing Zinnias in Your Garden

Like so most plants, you will always find far greater variety if you buy seeds rather than seedlings and right now is a good time to go zinnia seed shopping. To ensure a steady supply of blossoms through

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

Woy Woy Produce Swap 10 – 11am, Sunday 27th August

their season, try ‘successive planting’ by planting out a bed or area every 3 weeks. Although you certainly can sow your zinnia seeds directly in the ground a few weeks after the last frost, I’m more of a fan of sowing my seeds in biodegradable paper pots placed in trays first and raised in my little greenhouses or covers to avoid the danger of early spring pests as well as cold snaps.

Once the seedings are about a month old, I take trays out to their eventual planting spot and leave for a week or so to acclimatise. Either way, you will need to space them out at least 30cm apart in their final beds, depending on type, in well-draining soil. Zinnias prefer well-draining soil with a pH level around 5.5 to 7.5. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the germination period as they are prone to fungal disease.

Held in the Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden. 85 -87 Moana Street Woy Woy. Last Sunday of every month. A produce swap works by having a set time and place for backyard growers to bring the excess food they have grown to share with other growers. It is a very casual affair, and nobody keeps score. By bringing your produce you are saying that you are happy for other swappers to take what they need because it is excess to your needs. It is simply a way of sharing the food you have grown with the fellow growers in your neighbourhood.

Gwandalan & Summerland Point Community Garden

Open for visitors Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8am to 12pm (if not raining) or any time that there is someone in the garden. Plus this garden holds a monthly stall from 7.30am to 1.00pm on the third Saturday of the month at 32 Dulkara St Gwandalan: jams and pickles, local honey, lemon butter, a small amount of garden produce, and garden items, also some garage sale items.

Australian Native Plant Sale – 26th August – 6th September

Online at: austplants.com.au/central-coast-plant-sales

The time for growth is Spring and planting beautiful healthy natives give rewarding results for our gardens and the environment. The Central Coast District group of the Australian Plant Society is again holding its very successful online plant sale with the catalogue available and store opening from 9am Saturday 26th August. Plants can be ordered at website above. Collection will be between 10am and 12pm at Phillip House, Kariong on Saturday 9th September.

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

GARDENING PLANNER

The spring seed catalogues are out and your local nurseries are stocking up with seeds for your spring plantings. Make sure you keep seeds in a cool dry and dark place or an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to plant. 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

cheralyn

cheralyn.darcey

contact@cheralyndarcey.com

Once established, they are siomewhat drought-hardy. Once the first bud comes up, cut down the stems to just above a set of leaves to encourage the zinnia to branch out and produce more flowers. This technique is called ‘pinching out’. Don’t overdo the fertiliser, about half what is recommended for other flowering plants will be sufficient. When looking for a location to plant your zinnias it will need to be in full sun and protected from the wind. You will also find that these plant benefit from support and in larger scale operations, farmers use horticulture netting. While this may not be an option for you, using thin bamboo stacks for taller and heavier varieties will work along with string guides for your smaller zinnias.

If you aren’t harvesting all your flowers, make sure you are deadheading to encourage repeat flowering throughout

the season and set yourself up to save seeds for next year. Zinnias are relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids, mealybugs, and powdery mildew. If issues arise, treat them with appropriate remedies such as insecticidal soap or fungicides.

To harvest zinnias, wiggle the stem at about 20cm down and if it feels stiff, not soft, it is ready to cut. Zinnias living in vases really respond well to a bit of additional aftercare in the form of a flower preservative mixture. This can be store-bought, but you can make your own: to every 4 cups of warm water add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 2 teaspoons lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of either bleach or vinegar. Stir to dissolve the sugar and allow to reach room temperature before using.

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

Coast athletes shine at World Ninja Championships

Twelve Central Coast Ninjas have done the region proud at the Ninja World Championships in the USA.

The Championships comprised six events run over five days with some very impressive results from the young Coast athletes.

One of the standouts was Casey McLaren, who came second in the World Ninja Athlete Games (WNAG) Championships, second in the

World Ninja League (WNL) Tech Course and fourth overall in the WNL Championships.

Casey also came seventh in the FINA World Finals and ninth in the Ninja World Cup.

Amy Gorton competed in four events and achieved top 10 finishes in them all.

She came third in the Ultimate OCR 3k Championships, fifth in the UNAA World Series Finals, sixth in the FINA World Finals and ninth in the Ninja World Cup.

Hunter Hollingsworth also made the podium with a third place in the FINA World Finals, a sixth in the UNAA World Series Finals and a ninth in the Ultimate OCR 3k Championships.

Ally Rogers was the last Central Coast Ninja to finish on the podium with a third place in the UNAA World Series Finals and eighth in the Ninja World Cup.

Skye Warkotz competed in five events and finished top 10

in all of them, only missing the podium by one spot when she placed fourth in the FINA World Cup.

Skye also came sixth in the Ninja World Cup, WNAG Championships and Ultimate OCR 3k Championships.

Melody O’Donoghue scored a ninth place in the Ninja World Cup and was in the top 20 for two other events.

Oliver Maughan placed 12th in the WNAG Championships and Emilyclaire Bond placed

12th in the Ultimate OCR 3k Championships.

The Coast’s oldest competitor, Shayne Mclaren, 54, had his best result in the FINA World Finals where he placed 20th

Hunter Maughan also saw his best result in the FINA World Finals placing 26th.

Mitchell Townend placed 35th in the UNAA World Series Finals and Spencer O’Donoghue 92nd in the Ninja World Cup.

All athletes train at Obstacle

$5,000 grant for Southern Spirit

Southern Spirit Cricket Club has been awarded $5,000 to expand its women’s cricket program through the 2022-23 NSW Government Local Sport Grant Program.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the funding will allow female participation by subsiding fees for women and girls.

“The Local Sport Grant Program has a key objective to increase participation and

access for women and girls,” she said.

“Ensuring equal opportunities across the Coast to participate in all sports is so important to the community.

“This grant will allow more opportunities and improve opportunities for women and girls across the Central Coast to get involved in cricket.”

Senior Director of Cricket at Southern Spirit Cricket Club, Sean Dickson, said the club wants to double its number of

women and girls.

“This grant will help us achieve this by allowing us to subsidise registration fees,” he said.

“As a club, we would be unable to provide the adequate training and equipment without the help of funding through programs like the Local Sport Grant program.

“It’s going to allow us to build a more rounded community cricket club.”

Tesch said there were lots of

opportunities for residents to be part of the club.

“There’s more to a sporting club than just playing the game; there are lots of opportunities for people to get involved,” she said.

Those interested in getting involved should head to Southern Spirit Cricket Club’s Facebook at www.facebook. com/southerspiritcc.

Course Racing School at Tuggerah, run by Season 1 and 2 competitors Michael Gleeson and Gemma Rolfe.

Head coach Gleeson said the athletes had put in a huge amount of training and dedication over the past few months and he looks forward to watching them all represent Australia on the world stage again in the future.

Source: Obstacle Course Racing School

Prestigious bowls event contested at Everglades

LAWN BOWLS

The final of the Major Singles, the most prestigious event on the Everglades Men’s Bowls calendar, was contested on Saturday, August 19.

John Donahue, 25, defeated John McInnes, 20, in a contest which ran to 30 ends.

The Everglades Major Pairs commences on August 26 at the Everglades Country Club.

Anyone interested in bowls

can contact the bowls office on 4341 1089.

Source: Everglades Men’s Bowls

Amy Gorton had four top 10 finishes, one of them a third placing Casey McLaren had outstanding results

Skye Warkotz had five top 10 placings

John Donahue and John McInnes

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch presents the cheque to representatives of Southern Spirit Cricket Club

Central Coast Crusaders earn a place in semi-finals

BASKETBALL

The Central Coast Crusaders Waratah Youth League teams are tasting playoffs once again with both teams doing more than enough this season to earn themselves a spot in the semi-finals.

The Crusaders Women’s post-season spot was sealed a few weeks ago with a 3rd place finish, however last weekend saw them take on their potential grand finals match up against the first placed Manly Sea Eagles.

The Crusaders traveled down to the Northern Beaches to face the Sea Eagles for the second time this year, the first being at home in Terrigal where they suffered a 51-84 loss. Things were different this time though as the Crusaders held their own with co-captains

Bronte Moore and Sammi McCubbin lighting up the first half with the score locked in at 40-37.

It was the young rookies and

sophomores stepping up to bat for the Crusaders in the second half with Rubie Hassab going a perfect 3/3 from deep leading into the 4th quarter.

The Sea Eagles defence held the Crusaders to just 7 points in the final period of the game where they cruised to a 71-59 win.

The Crusaders have struggled with 4th quarter intensity dropoffs all year, an aspect which will surely be addressed heading into this week’s semifinals when they travel to Sutherland this Saturday, August 26, to take on the Norths Bears at 9am in what should be a very closely

contested affair.

The path to the semifinals has been a bit different for the Youth League Men who hosted the Sydney Comets in an elimination final last weekend.

The day started off sour for the Crusaders due to captain Alex Bailey’s ankle injury which he had suffered a few days

before and hadn’t progressed as they hoped.

The Comets matched the Crusaders bucket for bucket as Bailey limped from end to end looking for his shot; it was the big man in the paint Cody Wells who kept the Crusaders afloat in the first quarter.

By the second quarter Bailey

Major boost for Kincumber Colts

RUGBY LEAGUE

Kincumber Junior Rugby League Club has received $5,000 through the Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants program.

Committee Member Matthew McClean said with more than 560 players, the club would use the funds to help volunteers during weekly training and weekend games.

“Kincumber Colts has progressively grown, even during COVID-19, and the club is always welcoming of any new players,” he said.

“This season, we have 13 teams through to the finals out of a total of 36 teams.

“We are also celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2023, so this is a big year for our club.”

The money will be used to buy new iPads for canteen staff and to organise first aid training for club volunteers.

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid announced the funding recently at Mary Mackillop Oval in Kincumber.

“Kincumber Junior Rugby League Club is one of the largest junior league clubs on the Central Coast,” he said.

“This financial support from the Federal Government will help the club in its daily operations and assist with its continued growth.

“Safety is a very important priority of any sporting club, and I am pleased that around 40-50 volunteers will train in how to provide first aid in an emergency.

Mariners sign Taren King

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners have signed experienced defender Taren King for the upcoming 2023/24 Liberty A-League season.

The 26-year-old has spent the last three seasons with Newcastle Jets, playing 34 times for our rivals.

King started her A-League Women’s career with Canberra United, joining the club as a trialist at the beginning of the 2017/18 season.

She ultimately spent three

seasons with Canberra before making the switch to Newcastle.

The defender immediately became a crucial cog in their defence, starting in all of the 34 matches she played for the club.

King has currently featured in 66 Liberty A-League games, looking to grow that number this season.

She has also spent considerable time working under Central Coast Mariners Head Coach Emily Husband at Sydney University, winning the premiership with the squad last season.

Husband is extremely excited to

have King on board In the Mariners inaugural women’s A-League team, seeing the experienced defender as an extremely valuable addition.

“I am thrilled to have been able to sign Taren to the squad for the upcoming campaign,” Husband said.

“Having someone with the experience that Taren has in the A-League is really important to help guide the players around her as we join the competition this season.

“She will bring stability to the defence, she is good in the air and

reads the play well.

“She is also an awesome human and individual so she will bring loads of positivity into the group.”

King said she is keen to get started.

“I am extremely excited; obviously it is a new challenge with a brand new squad coming together as the Mariners join the competition,” she said.

“It is an exciting prospect for a player to make history with the team coming into the A-League Women’s.

“I have been in the league for

found his rhythm and propelled the Crusaders to a 13-point lead going into the half.

The Crusaders made light work of the Comets, stretching the lead by 21 points before easing off the accelerator in the final period, ending the elimination final 80-68.

Despite his injury, Bailey led all scorers and finished the game with an impressive 27 points.

The Youth League Men Crusaders will travel to Bankstown this Saturday, August 26, to take on the Hills Hornets in their semi-finals matchup at 3.30pm where Crusaders Center Cody Wells thinks defence will be the key factor.

“Hills are a solid team allround, they’re big and have got a couple of guys that can shoot the lights out,” Wells said.

“Our defence will be crucial to winning this game and they’ll be a good test for us as a team moving onto the final.”

“Canteen volunteers will improve point-of-sale transactions with the assistance of iPad technology, making transactions quicker, easier, and faster.”

To get involved with Kincumber Junior Rugby League Club, visit: https:// kincumbercolts.com.au/

The Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants provide notfor-profit organisations with funding of between $1,000 and $5,000 to support the work of volunteers.

The 2023-34 Volunteer Grants are now open and organisations are encouraged to contact Reid’s office for an expressions of interest form.

quite a few years now so I will bring some experience and communication skills from the back.

“With the Matildas doing what they have in the World Cup, people are more keen to play and watch women’s football.

“I can’t wait to get started with the team and get cracking.”

Source: Central Coast Mariners

Stefan Kataric

Cody Wells kept the Crusaders afloat in the first quarter

Rubie Hassab in action

Photo: Kye Santarossa

Photo: Kye Santarossa

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid presents the cheque to the Kincumber Colts

Terrigal and Avoca Beach battle for minor premiership

Terrigal and Avoca Beach are neck and neck at the top of the points ladder as Central Coast Rugby heads into its final round this Saturday, August 26.

The two top teams, each sitting on 66 points, are set to meet each other in the last round of the season in what is sure to be a nail-biting encounter which will decide the Minor Premiers for 2023.

The penultimate round on August 19 saw Avoca Beach defeat the Razorbacks at Heazlett Park 28-15.

Avoca Beach got away to the better start, scoring two tries quickly and heading into the half-time break with a 22-5 lead.

The second half was a far more even affair, with the Razorbacks outscoring the home team by 10 points to 6, but the damage for the visitors

had been done in the first half.

Best players for Avoca Beach were centre Liam Jenkins, No.8 Thomas Murphy, winger Shaun Townsend, who crossed for two tries, and lock Matt Anderson.

The Razorbacks had several good players but none were better than prop Mackenzie Zammit and flankers Matt Martin and Rob Peden, who crossed for two tries.

The win sees Avoca Beach maintain its undefeated record for the season with just the one match to go.

Gosford travelled to Woongarrah Oval to meet Warnervale in a match which was a hard-hitting affair from start to finish and saw Warnervale win the day 28-19.

Warnervale got away to a great start and took control of the match very early on, crossing for their first try within the first four minutes and

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following that up with two further tries in the first half.

Warnervale went to the halftime break leading 21-0. Gosford tried to bridge the gap in the second half, outscoring Warnervale by 19-7 in the final 40 minutes but it was all too late for the visitors.

The win more or less assures Warnervale fourth spot on the competition ladder

Best players for Warnervale were No.8 Tevita Piukala, fullback Isaiah Niumata, who was dangerous every time he touched the ball, and five-eight Sione Braxton.

Best for Gosford were flankers Hugo Pike and Jackson Steinbeck and halfback Ben Shelley.

Hornsby met Terrigal at The Haven Oval, with Terrigal running out victors by 45-5. Terrigal was in control right from the opening whistle, going

into the halftime break with a 26-0 lead.

The home team followed this up with a further 19 points in the second half while Hornsby was able to respond with only a lone try

Best players for Terrigal were centre Harry Hughes and flankers Sam Kenny and Elekano Laupolo, while flanker Chris James, winger Jack O’Connor and lock Blake Davenport put in the best efforts for Hornsby.

The Lakes proved too strong for Lake Macquarie at Walters Park, Boolaroo, running out victors by 47-19.

In their final match of the year, The Lakes had leapt to a 17-0 nil lead by half-time halftime and were able to maintain control throughout the match.

To Lake Macquarie’s great credit, the home team finished strongly and was able to cross

for three tries in the final periods of the match.

Best players for The Lakes were flanker Seth Olsen, hooker Navitalai Naduguduivalu, centre Lathan Hutchinson-Walters and prop Ben Kaifa.

Lake Macquarie was best served by halfback Matias Furno, prop Nathan Keogh and No.8 Ken Villamu, who crossed for two individual tries.

The points table heading into the final round sees Terrigal and Avoca Beach tied in first spot on 66.

The Razorbacks are on 57, with Warnervale on 47, Gosford on 42, Hornsby and The Lakes on 23, Woy Woy on 7 and Lake Macquarie on 5.

The Women’s 10s competition matches saw victories for Terrigal, The Lakes and Avoca Beach.

In the final round of the competition on Saturday,

August 26, Avoca Beach will meet Terrigal at The Haven, Warnervale will host the Razorbacks at Woongarrah Oval, Woy Woy and Hornsby will meet at Woy Woy Oval and Gosford will travel to Boolaroo to take on Lake Macquarie.

In the President’s Cup, Gosford/Kariong will meet The Bay on Friday night, August 25, at Joseph Banks Oval, while on Saturday, August 26, Terrigal and Avoca Beach clash The Haven Oval, and Warnervale will host the Razorbacks at Woongarrah Oval.

In the Central Coast Women’s 10’s competition, Warnervale will host the Razorbacks at Woongarah Oval, Terrigal will meet Avoca Beach in the top of the table clash at The Haven Oval and Woy Woy and Hornsby will meet at Woy Woy Oval.

Source: Central Coast Rugby

Shaun Townsend crossing for one of his two tries for Avoca Beach | Photo: Ian Cameron

Terrigal defeated Hornsby 45-5 |

Photo: Scott Gardiner Photography

Coast bids farewell to Lionesses

The English Lionesses have departed Terrigal and Gosford, heading home after their best-ever World Cup campaign.

The team was living at the Crowne Plaza, Terrigal, and training at Gosford’s Industree Group stadium during the FIFA Women’s World Cup, which concluded last Sunday.

Central Coast Council

Administrator Rik Hart has praised the team for its contribution to the area.

“While the Lionesses were no one’s favourites after knocking out the Matildas in the semifinal, they were a very gracious team to host, as were the German team,” Hart said at the August 22 Council meeting.

“We were very luck to have two international teams based

on the Coast.

“The English team is to be applauded for the way they behaved here.

“They also left gym equipment valued at more than $300,000 for the Central Coast Mariners.

“The Coast benefitted quite dramatically from hosting the overseas teams, with FIFA assisting Council staff to get the stadium and the Central

Coast Regional Sporting and Recreation Complex (where the German team was based) to perfect condition.”

Team members were also good customers at local businesses, using their off time to pick up a little bit of the Central Coast to take home.

Owner of The Beholder at Terrigal Leah Fotofilli was thrilled when some of the stars

of the team popped in to pick up some local gifts.

Hart also formally acknowledged the “outstanding” Matildas for their history-making performance in the World Cup.

“Their fourth-place finish is the highest achievement Australian soccer has ever recorded,” he said.

“The way they have united

and inspired us as a nation will never be forgotten.”

Hart said the World Cup would super-charge the future of women’s sport in Australia and acknowledged the fact that the Mariners will field a women’s team in the A-League competition for the first time this year.

Our Nicola set to take on the world

Nicola Olyslagers nee McDermott is set to take on the world’s best high jumpers in this year’s World Athletics Championships and fans can watch it live.

The 2023 World Athletic Championships are being held in Budapest, Hungary, this year.

Chair of World Athletics Sebastian Coe, himself a former world class athlete, said this year marked the 40th anniversary of the World Championships.

“Back then, few would have imagined that these championships would have gone from roughly 1500

athletes from 130 countries to tipping 2000 athletes and about 200 countries,” he said.

For Coasties who want to watch Nicola and others compete, streaming is available in Australia on the SBS Demand app.

Olyslagers is currently ranked number two in the world, just

behind Yaroslava Mahuchinkh. The Womens’ High Jump Qualification round is on Friday, August 25, at 6.20pm Australian Eastern Time.

The finals are scheduled for August 27 at 8.05pm in Budapest which is Monday, August 28, at 4.05am AEST.

The English Lionesses have left the Central Coast

Nicola Olyslagers