Coast Community News 406

Residents and environmentalist are applauding an announcement this week that the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is to prosecute Delta Electricity in relation to a fish kill near the Vales Point Power Station in September last year.

The EPA has commenced a prosecution against Sunset Power International Pty Ltd trading as Delta Electricity in the Land and Environment Court, alleging that Delta failed to maintain its chlorine dosing plant in a proper and efficient condition, resulting in a faulty valve which caused a discharge of concentrated sodium hypochlorite into waters leading to Wyee Bay.

NSW EPA Chief Executive Tony Chappel said the prosecution follows a comprehensive investigation using all available resources.

“Alongside the community, we expect Delta to meet high standards given the proximity of the Vales Point Power Station to Lake Macquarie,” Chappel said.

“Our investigation found that Delta could have prevented the fish kill if they had adequate equipment and processes in place.

“We’re pleased that Delta have

upgraded their systems and the water quality in the Lake has returned to normal levels.

“We will continue to ensure Delta acts in accordance with its environmental responsibilities to prevent future events and protect the environment in Lake Macquarie.

“We know this was a distressing event for the community and I want to

thank them for their patience as we worked through the investigation.”

The EPA alleges the incident is a breach of Delta’s environment protection license and an offence against section 64 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) which carries penalties of up to $1M.

Greens NSW MP and spokesperson for Energy and Hunter, Newcastle and Central Coast, Abigail Boyd, said the announcement was “hugely significant” for the people of the Central Coast.

“(It seemingly confirms) the suspicions of most of us that the owners of Vales Point Power Station have been acting without social conscience for years,” she said.

Continued page 6

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A season of renewal on the Central Coast

enjoying the great outdoors.

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 Material that is offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.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

As the last remnants of Winter quickly retreat and the days grow longer, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation in the air on the Central Coast.

Spring has arrived and, with it, a season of renewal and opportunity that will invigorate both the land and its people.

The Central Coast, renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant village communities, comes to life in Spring, offering a wealth of opportunities for locals to contribute to the region’s growth and vitality.

Of course, one cannot write of Spring without mentioning the breathtaking natural beauty that graces the Central Coast. Spring is the time when flora and fauna alike awaken from their winter slumber, reminding us of the precious biodiversity that thrives here.

The spirit of Spring is in our hearts, minds and hands too. Locals have a unique chance to engage with their environment by participating in conservation efforts, volunteering for local organisations, or simply

Whether we pitch in through sport, culture or volunteer participation in Surf Life Saving, the RFS, Marine Rescue or the SES, residents can harness the spirit of Spring to make a positive impact on their community.

Locally based community clean-up initiatives like Take 3 and Clean4Shore as well as tree-planting programs like Grow Urban Shade Trees provide meaningful ways to give back to the region while enjoying the stunning backdrop of the Central Coast in Spring. Spring on the Central Coast is also synonymous with festivals and cultural celebrations.

The warm weather and longer daylight hours encourage residents to come together and share their unique talents and traditions.

From the Coastal Twist Festival to The Entrance Buskers Festival as well as numerous local art and food trails, we locals are spoilt with events to participate in or attend.

Our local festivals are known to launch local artists, musicians and chefs, allowing them to gain exposure and connect with a broader audience.

These events not only enrich the cultural fabric of the region but also boost the local economy.

The Central Coast’s fertile hinterland soils and mild climate make it an agricultural paradise, especially during the Spring season.

Local farms and farmers’ markets come alive with an abundance of fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods.

Residents can take advantage of this seasonal bounty by supporting local farmers and producers, whether by shopping at the markets or participating in community-supported agriculture programs like the Sustainable Wetlands Agriculture Makers Project.

As our local gardening guru Cheralyn Darcy says – growing your own fruits and vegetables not only promotes sustainability but also fosters a strong sense of community as residents collaborate to nurture their shared garden spaces.

As the weather warms, tourists flock to the Central Coast to enjoy its natural wonders and vibrant culture.

This influx of visitors presents opportunities for locals in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Whether it’s working at a local cafe, guiding eco-tours or providing accommodation through platforms like Airbnb, residents can tap into the seasonal demand and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

Furthermore, the friendliness and warmth of the Central Coast’s residents play a significant role in shaping the experiences of visitors.

Engaging positively with tourists, providing recommendations and sharing local stories from our paper can leave a lasting impression and encourage repeat visits.

Spring is undoubtedly a season of renewal and opportunity on the Central Coast.

As nature awakens, festivals flourish, farms thrive, tourism surges and locals have numerous chances to contribute to the region’s vitality and growth.

Embracing the season’s opportunities not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens the Central Coast’s identity as a vibrant and welcoming place to call home.

David Abrahams

Pat passes through on his Run for the Voice

Ultra marathon runner Pat Farmer was joined by residents and supporters as he ran from Wyong to Ettalong Beach on Monday, August 21, as part of his 14,400km nation-wide Run for The Voice.

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

As a proud Central Coast resident, the former Federal MP is supporting constitutional recognition by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

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

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

He ran for seven hours and 12 minutes on the Central Coast, joined for the Tascott-Ettalong Beach leg by Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid.

“Pat is a phenomenal Australian, who is showing the nation how important this upcoming referendum is by running 14,400 kilometres around the country,” Reid said.

“He has already covered so

much distance across our vast nation and will run up to 80km a day to eventually finish up at Uluru.

“I ran with Pat because I think it is important that no matter your political stripes, this referendum is above politics and is about making our nation stronger.

“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.”

The referendum on the Voice to Parliament will take

place on October 14.

To follow Pat Farmer’s Run for The Voice, visit: www. runforthevoice.com

IN

MEMORIAM

Cherished

The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said and never explained. You

“Forever

Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate Joan’s life at the Greenway Chapel and Memorial Gardens, 460 Avoca Drive, Green Point on Friday 8 September 2023 commencing at 10:00am. Followed by a burial at Wamberal Cemetery.

Terry Collins

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid joined Pat Farmer on the Tascott-Ettalong Beach leg of his Run for the Voice

wife of Richard. Adored mother of Tony and Julie. Beloved Nan and Great-Nan. Loved sister of Ann and Tom. Friend to many.

More controversy over Dogs in Open Spaces plan

The latest iteration of Central Coast Council’s draft Dogs in Open Space Action Plan has certainly put the cat amongst the pigeons.

Although Administrator Rik Hart says he is trying to “look for an outcome that will satisfy everyone”, many dog owners are unhappy with the latest “compromises” suggested for off-leash dog areas at Pippi Point, Davistown, and The Haven at Terrigal.

Davistown residents are not happy with the suggestion of reducing the size of Pippi Point off-leash dog area, eliminating access to the beachfront.

Hundreds of dogs and their owners are expected to descend on Pippi Point on Sunday, September 10, at 10.30am, to hold a peaceful protest over the move, which is included in the latest iteration of the Dogs in Open Spaces policy, now on public exhibition.

“With placards and a lot of passion, the residents of Saratoga, Davistown, Yattalunga and beyond will gather to protest the Central Coast Council’s proposed shutting down of the dog beach, a vital part of the community’s social tapestry, a place where locals and their dogs can meet and connect,” a spokesperson said.

“Council is trying to (cut) down the dog park in a misguided attempt to protect a bird which has never nested, roosted or bred at this site.

“Three environmental reports have confirmed this.

“We have a petition with over 3000 signatures.

“By Council’s own figures (after the first round of submissions) 81.6 per cent of people are against the decommissioning of this dog park and this number continues to grow.

“Council has adjusted its position a little, but still plans on taking away beach access for people and their dogs.

“This will have a profound effect on people who use the park on a daily basis.

“For many who access with wheelchairs and mobility aids these changes mean they will no longer be able to access the beach at all and Council will be indirectly discriminating against people with disabilities and the elderly as a result.

“Despite the obvious opposition from the locals, plus no ecological evidence to justify its proposed decision, Council seems determined to continue with its plans.”

The spokesperson said the area is used by dog owners ranging from children to those in their 90s.

Resident Johnny Row gave an impassioned appeal at the public forum prior to Council’s last general meeting on August 22.

“There is a very strong community voice to keep Pippi Point as it is where it is,” he said.

“A reduction in size would result in more noise for neighbours as the dogs will be closer.

“There will also be more wear and tear on the ground surface and more fights between dogs.

“There is no evidence bush stone curlews are under any threat from dogs; it’s time to put people first.”

The Davistown petition can

be accessed at chng.it/ VNFwyGTyz6

Meanwhile, plans to cut down or remove the off-leash area at The Haven, Terrigal, have also met with community opposition.

Graham Hughes told the public forum prior to the Council meeting that he had been taking four dogs to the Haven for many years, all with different exercise needs.

“This is a microcosm of use of the dog park,” he said.

The Haven allows for all nature of off-leash activities graham hughes

“The Haven allows for all nature of off-leash activities and there is a greater risk with proposed alternative sites, with

their nearby properties and heavy traffic.”

Hughes said The Haven was geographically isolated from the neighbouring community and did not interfere with any properties.

“On weekdays there are very few people there other than dog owners,” he said.

“Even in peak holiday times, because of the size of the area everyone can co-exist.”

Hughes said a proposal to fence off a dog area could “mitigate problems” and that increased housing in the area calls for increased dog exercise areas.

But Council Administrator Rik Hart said suggested changes at

Have your say on the revised draft plan

Central Coast Council is inviting all interested community members to share their feedback on the revised draft Dogs in Open Spaces Action Plan (revised draft Plan) until Sunday, October 1.

The revised draft Plan has been simplified and refined in response to the extensive community feedback received during the first round of consultation, as well as further technical studies and community workshops on key issues of concern.

These key issues included seasonal and timed beach access and the suitability of off leash areas (OLAs) at Davistown, Terrigal and Hamlyn Terrace.

Council’s Director Environment and Planning, Alice Howe, said many safety, environmental, social and operational factors were considered when developing the revised draft Plan.

“Council received a huge response following the exhibition of the first draft Plan, and on July 31, 2023, released a Consultation Report which provided an in-depth analysis

of what we heard from the community during the exhibition period,” Dr Howe said.

“Council staff also recently held community workshops in August to share feedback about the first round of consultation, further refine the revised draft Plan and to explore potential solutions to the key issues identified.

“An example of this has been the removal of the proposal for seasonal or timed beach access.

“One of the key objectives of the revised draft Plan is to improve off leash infrastructure and increase the amenity at OLAs, while balancing safety, environmental, social and operational factors.

“Council proposes a net increase of seven OLAs, which would take the total number of OLAs across the Central Coast from 61 to 68.

“The revised draft Plan also identifies ways in which the off leash experience for dogs and their owners can be improved, such as providing additional bins, seating and shade, as well as play and enrichment opportunities.

“That said, we want to hear from everyone in our community on the revised draft Plan –whether you own a dog or not – as it’s important that all community members can access and enjoy our open spaces safely.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the best outcomes are generated when Council and the community work together.

“I understand the Central Coast community is passionate about dogs in their area, which can become a polarising topic for locals,” he said.

“Council has prepared this

revised draft Plan with this in mind, taking on board the various views from our community, together with a range of other factors, and is placing it on public exhibition for a second time.

“I encourage all community members to share feedback through the appropriate channels, however, I do ask that people remain respectful in their submissions to Council and in public discussions about this polarising matter, particularly on social media.”

The revised draft Plan has removed the proposal for seasonal and/or timed beach

The Haven were all about “managing risk” and an alternative site for an off-leash dog area had been proposed at Wamberal.

“There are more areas available for off leash dogs than in most other council areas,” Hart told the August 22 meeting.

“There are very, very strong views out there and there needs to be some compromise.”

Hart said The Haven was unsuitable for off-leash dog activity due to its popularity with families with prams and older people, car movements, sporting fields and cliff edges.

He said he had seen small children frightened by dogs and multiple videos of dog owners ignoring the signs around the area.

With The Haven one of the most visited spots on the Coast, he said investigating the possibility of a fenced-off dog area made sense.

Council’s Director Environment and Planning, Alice Howe, said the needs of dog owners had to be balanced with other users of open space.

She said the latest draft policy reflected expert advice and feedback from community workshops.

See more on the draft policy in the story below.

Terry Collins

access restrictions, proposes 13 more off leash areas at Bensville, Canton Beach, Davistown, Gwandalan, Killarney Vale, Mannering Park, Ourimbah, Point Clare, Wamberal, Watanobbi, Woongarrah and Yarramalong and recommends upgrades to most inland OLAs and all fenced OLAs (FOLAs), including proposed drainage improvements and redesign of the Tuggerah FOLA, as well as accessibility enhancements and landscape and sensory elements at Buff Point, Ettalong, Gorokan, Lake Munmorah, Narara and Tuggerah FOLAs.

The revised plan also proposes an expansion of the environmental protection area at Illoura Reserve, Davistown, so as to retain the existing OLA rather than decommission it, and provide an additional OLA at Memorial Park, the decommissioning of the Terrigal Haven OLA and conversion to an on-leash area with an alternate OLA proposed at Wiles Ave, Wamberal.

A potential FOLA at Terrigal Haven will also be explored during the consultation period to seek community input on potentially retaining the ability

to have dogs off leash while addressing safety and conflict of use issues (by fencing an area for dogs off leash at The Haven).

The revised plan also defines effective control and expectations of dog owners in public spaces, provides an increase in leash length limitations, proposes improved education initiatives for dogs in open spaces, proposes a review of resourcing of Ranger Services, and proposes improved signage and off leash mapping for Council’s website.

There are currently no changes to the management of Council’s open space network. Changes proposed in the revised draft Plan would not come into effect until a final Plan is adopted by Council and an implementation schedule is developed.

For more information on the revised draft Dogs in Open Space Action Plan and to have your say, visit ourvoiceourcoast. com/dogs

Public exhibition closes Sunday, October 1.

Source: Central Coast Council

Suggested changes to the off-leash area at The Haven are also causing concern

Have your say on Council’s latest amendments to the Dogs in Open Spaces Plan

Groups unite to save Austin Butler

An alliance of 13 community groups has reaffirmed its opposition to any sell-off of the Austin Butler Reserve at Woy Woy with the issue back out for public consultation.

The groups have written an open letter to Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart, Council CEO David Farmer and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris, to push for the land to remain in community ownership.

Residents are being asked to vote to either: keep the reserve as community land; or support its reclassification to operational so it can be sold to the adjacent Peninsula Plaza, with money raised from any sale to go into an “extensive street tree planting program” on the Peninsula.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has described the second option as “blackmail” and says greening the Peninsula should not be dependent upon the sale of community land.

The 4000+ square metre reserve includes 44 mature paperbark and she oak trees which are the last substantial area of natural shade in the Woy Woy town centre.

The groups which have joined forces to fight the sale of the flood-prone public land are: Peninsula Residents Association; Peninsula Environment Group; Grow Urban Shade Trees (GUST); Mingaletta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation; WIRES; Australian Conservation Foundation Central Coast Group; Community Environment

Network (CEN); Koolewong

Point Clare Tascott Progress Association; Save Central Coast Reserves; Save Our Woy Woy; Wildlife Arc; Residents for Responsible Ettalong Development (RRED); and Pearl Beach Progress Association.

GUST spokesperson Jennifer Wilder has written to Hart protesting the suggestion.

We don’t think an urban greening program should be conditional on getting rid of this rare remnant of native woodland

GUST spokesperson Jennifer Wilder

“We don’t think a muchneeded urban greening program should be conditional on getting rid of this rare remnant of native woodland,” she said.

“We have measured every single tree at Austin Butler using a calculator provided by the Australian Standard Protection of Trees on

Development sites (AS49702009) and an amenity value calculator used by Melbourne City Council.

“We applied the formula for trees with multiple trunks –which is the case with many of the trees in Austin Butler.

“The 44 trees in the reserve have an amenity monetary value of $1,478,369.02.

“We know the trees are worth much more to the community and the wildlife who live there but that figure should be added to the market value of comparable land for commercial use, which we estimate to be at least $20M.

“We don’t want council to sell this land at all but, if they do, its price should be no less than $21.5 million.”

Peninsula Residents Association spokesperson Julian Bowker said the community had been telling the Council since late 2020 that it did not want the land

reclassified, rezoned or sold.

“Pedestrian safety has been put forward as a reason for needing the land but there is no publicly available information about the dangers of the current loading dock, pedestrian safety or traffic hazards,” he said.

“Council says it is now in a financially stable situation after previous land sales and other measures so why does it need to sell more public land?

“We know some of the previous land sales have resulted in developers reselling land within months for massive profits so there is very little trust in the process.”

Chair of the Community Environment Network, Gary Chestnut, said Hart’s latest resolution not only went against the grain of the community but was probably in breach of the Local Government Act.

“This land was dedicated to Council for community

recreation and there has been no resolution to discharge that dedication, as required by the Local Government Act (Section 30-1),” he said.

“The land is zoned RE1 Public Recreation, so its sale depends upon Council amending the Local Environment Plan 2022 (CCLEP 2022).

“It is troubling that Mr Hart resolved in July 2021 that, subject to an executed Deed of Option to Purchase Agreement, Council would provide owner’s consent for Peninsula Plaza to apply for a planning proposal on behalf of Council to amend CCLEP 2022 and lodge a future Development Application (DA).

“It is far from best practice for a council to pre-empt the outcome of a community consultation on a reclassification or a rezoning of public land.

“These actions have created multiple conflicts of

Walk to mark World Suicide Prevention Day

Lifeline Central Coast will hold an Out of the Shadows Walk to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Sunday, September 10 from 8.3010.30am.

The 2.5km walk will start at North Entrance carpark on The Entrance foreshore and proceed to the nearby Sensory Garden before returning to the foreshore.

Lifeline is inviting people to come together to remember loved ones lost to suicide and show support for action to prevent suicide.

Lifeline Central Coast services manager Kelly Gavine said the walk is a powerful way to reflect on lived experiences relating to suicide or suicide attempts.

She said it will raise awareness about suicide and

its prevention as well as help to reduce the stigma that surrounds suicide.

“We call the walk Out of the Shadows because it helps the community to bring the important conversation about suicide prevention into the light,” Gavine said.

“Together we can learn from

other people’s experiences and be inspired by others.

“We can also support people bereaved by suicide or suicide attempts.”

Lifeline is partnering with local charity Iris Foundation, which will have a table at the Sensory Garden where people can write messages of hope

and remembrance, to be displayed at the Wyong Milk Factory during September.

The theme of this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day is “creating hope through action”.

Gavine said Lifeline is there to listen to people in times of crisis and to offer hope on World Suicide Prevention Day

interest for the council.”

The Australian Conservation Foundation Central Coast Community Group spokesperson, Mark Ellis, said the alliance had already held two events at Austin Butler to demonstrate opposition to the council’s position.

“Mr Hart’s offer of a street greening program makes us think he has forgotten about the council’s Greener Places Strategy, adopted in 2022,” he said.

“Keeping Austin Butler and street greening the Woy Woy Peninsula should not be mutually exclusive.

Keeping Austin Butler and street greening the Woy Woy Peninsula should not be mutually exclusive

Mark Ellis

“Council must implement measures to provide street trees and deep soil planting throughout the Peninsula in addition to protecting established trees, not instead of.”

The open letter (which will be published in Coast Community News on September 7) calls for Hart to rescind his resolution from the August council meeting; withdraw Austin Butler Reserve from sale; commit to keeping the reserve in public ownership; inform the owners of Peninsula Plaza and their key tenant, Woolworths, to use their own land to fix unverified ‘safety concerns’; and commit to street tree planting and deep soil provision to address its existing obligations to fix the “urban heat island effects on the Woy Woy Peninsula”.

Terry Collins

welcome at the event and the walk is accessible for all levels of mobility.

She said those who wish and are able can also fundraise or donate to Lifeline Central Coast to help it bring suicide out of the shadows and in support a local service supporting local people.

To register for the walk visit www.outoftheshadowswalk. org.au/fundraisers/oots_central coast2023 or get the link at centralcoast.lifeline.org.au

and every day.

She said Lifeline is still receiving around 25 per cent more calls to its 13 11 14 service than prior to the pandemic as people deal with cost-of-iving pressures, loneliness and other trauma.

Gavine said everyone is

Lifeline offers 24 hour crisis support on 13 11 14 (phone calls), 0477 13 11 14 (text) or chat online at: www.lifeline. org.au

For face to face and video counselling bookings call 1300 152 854.

Source: Lifeline Central Coast

The groups want Austin Butler Reserve to remain in community ownership

The walk will encourage dialogue around suicide

Protest over proposed Kariong development

private organisation which doesn’t have a good track record when it comes to conservation.”

Darkinoong/Yuin Elder Aunty

Colleen Fuller said while the groups appreciated the need for more housing, it should not come at the cost of ancient cultural heritage, endangered wetlands and threatened flora and fauna.

“There are known and registered Aboriginal engraving sites in the area,” she said.

“Removing all that sandstone will erase a significant part of our history.”

“DLALC is the biggest private land-owner on the Central Coast with over 1000 new land claims currently being assessed.

looking to our State Member to find a way to protect the land while ensuring that DLALC is duly compensated.

“This could be achieved by the State Government providing DLALC with land that can be developed without causing irreparable damage to our local environment, while preserving this part of Kariong Sacred lands in the surrounding National Park.”

French said the groups are calling on women of all ages and backgrounds to come to the peaceful, respectful and child friendly protest on September 8.

More information on the event can be found at https:// www.facebook.com/ events/274079042020983

“There are many strong and caring women in our community who have devoted their lives to caring for this area known as Kariong Sacred Lands.

“We are hoping Liesl will … choose protecting our most vulnerable local bushland over supporting this … development.”

Kariong resident and CCEAC spokesperson Lisa Bellamy said DLALC’s ‘cut and fill’ development would see the removal of trees, plants and

sandstone which contain endangered wetlands and threatened flora and fauna species.

The area is also officially listed as an Area of Regional Koala Significance (ARKS).

“As a local who regularly spends time in this beautiful place, I’m not willing to just sit back and let this go ahead,” she said.

“I’m really hoping our State Member will support us over a

“If DLALC can be supported by the Government in successfully claiming culturally and environmentally sensitive land, rezoning it and opening it up to these types of developments, it will set a dangerous precedent across the state.

“We need strong leadership here.

“With the rezoning proposal coming up for public submissions in October, we are

DLALC chair BJ Duncan has said previously that the planning proposal to rezone the land would see more than half the site safeguarded for environmental conservation.

He said DLALC was seeking the same rights as other nonAboriginal land-owners – to have self-determination for how they use their land.

Terry Collins

EPA to prosecute Delta Electricity

From page 1

“The decision to proceed to prosecution has come about thanks to immense community pressure that demanded a forensic investigation, in the face of an initially blasé regulator.

“Delta electricity recently announced their intention to keep Vales Point open for a further four years, to 2033.

“The allegations contained in the EPA announcement prove that this is untenable, and that in the sequencing of coal closures that Vales Point would ideally be the first to go.

“These aging coal power plants will continue to present an unacceptable risk to the health of local communities.

“It’s time we empowered the people of the Central Coast to help steer this transition out of coal and into a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable postcoal future.

“The NSW Government must intervene and set a clear schedule for coal closures.”

Community members were left devastated when two major fish fills occurred in August and September 2022, resulting in an estimated 15,000 dead fish and Whitespotted eagle rays washing up onto the shores of Lake Macquarie.

This is the first EPA prosecution against a NSW coal fired power station in more than a decade – with the only other being against Delta Electricity back in 2009 for its operations at Wallerawang power station, which has since closed.

Keep Lake Macquarie Clean Group member, Bruce Macfarlane, said residents have witnessed the gradual degradation of the lake over decades, with ever-reducing areas of seagrass and fish kills due to industrial activity around the lake.

“It’s not before time that companies that flout environmental licence conditions are called to account by the EPA,” he said.

Spokesperson from the Hunter Community

Environment Centre, Jo Lynch, said members welcomed the news that Delta Electricity “will have to face up to its negligence in court over this entirely avoidable incident”.

Mannering Park resident and first responder to the fish kill, Julie Hopley, said she was very concerned about the health of the lake.

“Someone needs to be made accountable for the damage and deterioration that we’ve witnessed over the decades and we must take steps to get back the beauty and health of these natural resources so they continue on for our children and grandchildren to enjoy,” she said.

More information is available on the EPA website.

Terry Collins

From left: Lisa Bellamy, Colleen Fuller, Emma French and Emily McCallum on the site

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

Vales Point Power Station

Coast Connect

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Moving forward on the Affordable Housing Strategy

I’m pleased that Council is pushing ahead to deliver the next stage of its groundbreaking Central Coast Affordable and Alternative Housing Strategy.

At the 22 August Council Meeting, Council staff prepared a report which outlined Council owned sites suitable for affordable and emergency housing, which was in response to the formal request I made late last year that Council explores what it can further do to address the housing crisis gripping the region.

I was pleased to resolve that Council will progress investigations on identified and suitably located Council owned sites to be utilised for affordable housing developments. These properties located at The Entrance, Toukley and Wyong are well-situated in terms of public transport and availability of retail, community and health services.

There is no quick fix for affordable housing, but the question of what role Council can, and should, play in the issue of affordable housing is a high priority for us. Through identifying surplus sites and land which can be used for affordable housing, Council is adding to the pipeline of building set in place to address the lack of affordable housing supply on the Coast. This decision expands on the pilot partnership with community housing provider Pacific Link, which is progressing well to deliver affordable housing at Ashton Avenue, The Entrance, and the four Councilowned dwellings which are currently formally managed by a community housing provider for community transitional housing.

I’m proud of Council’s resolve in tackling the issue of housing on the Central Coast through its Affordable and Alternative Housing Strategy.

What’s On

Free outdoor movie nights across the Coast

Join a free open-air cinema night at Toukley, Gosford and Wyong town centres.

• Toukley, Village Green – Saturday 23 September

• Gosford, Kibble Park – Friday 29

September

• Wyong, The Chapman LawnSaturday, 30 September

For more, search ‘movie nights’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Have your say on the revised draft Dogs in Open Space Action Plan

We’re inviting you to share your feedback on the revised draft Dogs in Open Space Action Plan – whether you own a dog, or simply enjoy using our open spaces.

Based on your feedback from the first round of consultation, further technical studies and community workshops, we have simplified and refined the draft Plan to address key issues of concerns. This includes the removal of the proposal for seasonal or timed beach access.

For more information and to share feedback by 1 Oct, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/dogs

Annual Community Engagement Plan making it easier to participate

We’ve launched our 2023-24 Community Engagement Plan on our engagement platform, Your Voice Our Coast.

This annual Plan seeks to address your concerns about having more awareness about our upcoming community engagement activities.

We believe that by showcasing our upcoming engagement activities will enable a more inclusive process for community engagement. For more information, search ‘engagement plan’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com

Get Ready Central Coast

This September in collaboration with local emergency agencies, services, and organisations we’re hosting six webinars to help prepare you, your loved ones, and your home for an emergency. Topics include preparing for storms, extreme weather, bushfires and heatwaves as well as how to prepare young children and seniors.

To register and prepare now, search ‘get ready’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Hybrid model for Pelican Park

Pelican Park, Woy Woy is getting a makeover, with more than 500 people sharing feedback on the future of the park during the consultation. Results were close with opinion almost equally split between Option 1 (nature play) and Option 2 (pirate theme play). As a result, a hybrid model featuring the best elements from both concepts will progress through to a design stage.

To stay up to date on this project, search ‘pelican park’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com

Did you know?

We have road safety videos available for older road users

Are you an older road user looking to learn more about remaining safe on and around our roads? Watch our series of road safety videos on Council’s YouTube channel today. Each video provides advice and tips on making safer choices when driving, riding, walking, catching public transport, or driving near (or riding) mobility scooters.

To watch our video series, search ‘road safety’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

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Less than a week after it began dredging the Ettalong Channel, the Faucon has been taken off the job, with operations paused while a replacement dredge was brought in.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the Faucon had experienced mechanical issues leading to a brief interruption in the work.

She said Minister for Transport Jo Haylen had quickly sourced a replacement dredge after Faucon sustained damage during the initial works.

But it’s full steam ahead once more with the arrival this week of the Faucon’s sister ship, the

Crackdown on vandalism at Pelican Island

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will install surveillance cameras and increase patrols of the Pelican Island Nature Reserve following a spate of vandalism acts.

In announcing an investigation, NPWS Central Coast Area Manager Steve Atkins said the illegal activities, including camping, lighting fires, littering, damage to park signs and destruction of native vegetation, had raised concerns about the conservation of the vital natural habitat.

“Pelican Island Nature

Reserve spans 40 hectares in the heart of Brisbane Water, protecting crucial estuarine vegetation such as the Swamp oak and the Saltmarsh Endangered Ecological Community,” Atkins said.

“This island offers sanctuary to native animals and birds, including white-bellied sea eagles, a threatened species in NSW.

“We’ve faced repeated challenges at Pelican Island, with the park sign needing to be replaced three times since January 2023, due to repeated removals by vandals.”

Atkins said a recent inspection

Dredging resumes in Ettalong Channel

Port Frederick, a new trailing suction dredge.

Tesch said the Port Frederick is a faster and more effective dredge, which is capable of completing in one day the work that Faucon was able to complete in two and a half days.

“I am glad to see Port Frederick arrive in the Ettalong Channel following a quick turnaround on the Gold Coast, with dredging now set to recommence,” she said on September 6.

During Faucon’s time in the Ettalong Channel, the dredge created a wider channel than was previously available.

Port Frederick was unable to

be used in the first instance as it requires a larger channel width than was initially available.

“I will continue to keep the community updated as dredging of the Ettalong Channel continues,” Tesch said.

She encouraged community members to visit Ettalong Channel dredging | Transport for NSW for further information, frequently asked questions and updates as dredging progresses - www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ projects/current-projects/ ettalong-channel-dredging

Time to get ready for fire and storm season

As bushfire and storm season approach, Central Coast Council is set to host a series of webinars and promote events to help residents better prepare themselves, their families and their homes for emergencies.

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said preparing for emergencies was an important and shared responsibility.

“Council works hand in hand with lead emergency agencies to share knowledge and resources to help our local communities prepare for floods, bush fires and other natural disasters.,” she said.

“We know a connected community is a resilient community – in the last three years, NSW has been impacted by multiple natural hazards and research has shown that the communities that are connected and help each other to prepare and respond in an emergency are more likely to

recover quicker and be more resilient.

“We are dedicated to fostering resilience and in partnership with various local emergency agencies, services and organisations we are hosting a series of free webinars from September 5-25.”

These webinars will cover

seven important topics including: preparing for storms and extreme weather; planning for emergencies for landholders and livestock owners; helping young children prepare for emergencies; emergency preparedness when you care for others; preparedness and emergency planning for

seniors; preparing for the bushfire season; and preparing for heatwaves.

“I strongly urge (members of) the community to register their attendance to these webinars and prepare for the upcoming season,” Smith said.

“Regardless of whether you have recently moved to the

revealed that more than 70 casuarina trees had been cut down, and the ground littered with broken glass bottles, rubbish and remnants of fires. The nature reserve is only accessible by boat.

Anyone with information about vandalism at Pelican Island Nature Reserve is asked to contact the local NPWS Girrakool office on 4320 4200 or email parks.info@ environment.nsw.gov.au

Source: National Parks and Wildlife Service

Central Coast or have been in the same house for decades –now is the time to understand your current risks and create an up-to-date plan.”

NSW RFS Get Ready Weekend will take place on September 16-17.

A number of Central Coast NSW Brigades will be out in the community holding events and opening stations to support with planning advice and tips to get properties ready.

Council is also promoting Red Cross Emergency Ready Week (September 18-24) and the ‘Get Prepared’ app.

The app serves as a valuable resource, providing information on disaster preparedness and access to a digital Rediplan.

Administrator Rik Hart said Council was invested in working with the community to build a more resilient region, especially with an anticipated dry season ahead.

“We encourage the community to continue building personal resilience towards emergency events and

disasters, which we know are difficult to predict or control,” he said.

“While emergencies and disasters are difficult to predict or control, our ability to adapt and respond to these experiences is something that we, as individuals and as a community, can actively work to develop.

“By sharing preparedness information this September, we hope the community will feel prepared when facing an emergency event.”

Council’s website outlines the 5 steps to Get Ready to help the Central Coast community know their risk, plan now for what they will do, prepare their home or business premises and connect with their community to look out for each other.

For information on preparedness and resilience and to register attendance to a webinar, search ‘Get ready’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Source: Central Coast Council

Source:

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

The Faucon has left the Central Coast, to be replaced by a faster, more efficient dredge

NPWS rangers inspect the latest acts of vandalism

Some experts are saying we are in for the worst bushfire season since the devastation of 2019

The long-awaited Woy Woy Ambulance Station is officially open, with a special ceremony on August 30 marking the occasion.

Health Minister Ryan Park said the new station would support the existing Terrigal and Point Clare ambulance stations to provide seamless 24/7 emergency coverage.

“This state-of-the-art ambulance station will support our highly skilled paramedics as they continue to provide high quality care for the region,” Park said.

“This is part of our commitment to invest in rural and regional health

Woy Woy Ambulance Station is finally open

infrastructure to support better health outcomes.”

The new station includes internal parking for up to 10 emergency ambulance vehicles, staff common areas, administration and office areas, logistics and storage areas, a vehicle wash bay and a Medic Fit gym.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the new station will serve the Central Coast community now and into the future.

“More than 378,000 people will call this region home by 2032,” she said.

“Nearly one in five of them will be aged over 70, which is why we need to invest in health

services to meet the needs of our growing and ageing community.

“I welcome the opening of this station and will continue to stand beside our community in working to deliver the best possible health services for the people of the Peninsula and the Central Coast.”

NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan said paramedics were excited to be operating out of a new high-quality base.

“This new facility at Woy Woy will benefit the Central Coast Peninsula community now and into the future,” he said.

“The station will not only provide a more comfortable

working environment for paramedics but also allow for training and development.”

Woy Woy Ambulance Station has been fitted with a solar panel energy system and an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) battery for essential building services.

The purpose-built facility on Ocean Beach Rd replaces the existing aging station at Ettalong and has been delivered as part of the $232M Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration (RAIR) program.

It is one of 54 new or upgraded ambulance stations being delivered across NSW as part of the RAIR program.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has also welcomed the opening of the new station.

“The former Liberal-National Government was committed to improving health services in our region, and it is great to see these projects go from being on paper to being ready to serve our community,” he said.

“Under the former government’s record investment into health services in our region, new ambulance stations were to be built in Woy Woy, Kincumber, Lisarow and Berkeley Vale.”

Crouch said while the opening of the Woy Woy Ambulance Station was a win for the region, the State Government

needed to provide answers on the future of the remaining ambulance stations.

“As of yet, we’ve heard nothing from the Government as to when locations for the new ambulance stations will be confirmed as well as when construction is due to commence,” he said.

“The community needs rock solid commitment from this government that these remaining ambulance stations will go ahead, building upon our local health infrastructure that the former Liberal-National government laid the groundwork for.”

Terry Collins

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with staff and guests at the opening

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch & NSW Ambulance Acting Director of Metropolitan Operations, Paul Tonge, cut the ribbon

Glen for Women officially opened

The Glen for Women, a rehabilitation centre run by Aboriginal women for Aboriginal women, was officially opened on Wednesday, August 30, by Federal member for Dobell Emma McBride.

Set in a picturesque Wyong Creek acreage, the centre provides a minimum 12-week residential program in a culturally safe and supportive environment and is the first Aboriginal communitycontrolled women’s rehabilitation centre in NSW.

The 20-bed centre offers holistic addiction treatment for Indigenous women to help them recover from addiction and build practical life skills. The program includes group counselling, purposeful life skills, sports, cooking, personal training, parenting programs, Alcoholic Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, community work and education.

“The Glen for Women is doing fantastic work and helping to turn around the lives of First Nations women struggling with drug and alcohol use in the Central Coast community and beyond,” McBride said.

“The facility is an important

addition to the number of beds available for women in residential rehabilitation centres and is one of the few which offer culturally safe support for First Nations women.”

The Glen for Women program manager Natalie Purchase said the official opening was an “amazing day”.

“It was a beautiful day with a lot of community representatives coming out to

support us,” she said.

Aunty Bronwyn Chambers performed the Welcome to Country while Aunty Leanne King led the smoking ceremony.

The Glen for Women was a 20-year-dream come true for the group of Indigenous women, all whose lives had been affected by addiction issues, including Coral Hennessey (whose late brother Cyril established the Glen for Men), Cheryl Baily, Gail Savage

and the late Jan McKinnon. Both Hennessy and Baily were at the official opening as were family members.

The event also attracted local dignitaries including local government representatives, Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Member for Swansea and Police Minister Yasmin Catley, as well as representatives from a number of community services and local Aboriginal health services.

The centre opened its doors to the first client 15 months ago and currently has 15 women in the residential program.

In that time, 84 women have been treated – 76 per cent of those Indigenous – achieving a very high success rate.

“They have been able to return home healthy to their families and communities,” Purchase said.

“We are doing really well.

“The community has been very supportive; we have a lot to look forward to.”

The Australian Government has continued an ongoing partnership with the Glen for Women with a $3.5M investment to support priorities under the National Drug Strategy.

“The amazing work of Glen for Women will go a long way in making a positive difference to the lives of women in the Central Coast region, their families and the wider community,” assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians and Indigenous Health Malandirri McCarthy said.

Who owns this plaque?

The Doyalson-Wyee RSL Sub-Branch is on the hunt for the owner of a plaque which was found at Budgewoi.

The plaque was handed in to the sub-branch after it was found near the bridge.

“The sub-branch would like to find the family who had placed the plaque in memory of Joe Billington, so that we can either present it back to them or find out where it was mounted and remount it in honour of Mr Billington,” President Bob Dokter said. If you can throw any light on the ownership of the plaque, please contact the sub-branch on 4390 9041 or 0417 616 404.

Denice Barnes

Cheryl Baily with Coral Hennessey and her grandchildren at the official opening

The sub-branch is looking for the owner of this plaque

As the national referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament approaches on Saturday, October 14, Coast Community News continues to receive dozens of letters each week expressing varying views on the topic. Here are just some of them. Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum

Read the full report to make a well-informed referendum vote

Over the past two issues you have published letters for and against the Voice. Neither side of this argument has mentioned the obvious.

It is true that the Statement from the Heart is one page. However it did not just appear, it was the result of years of negotiation between the various state Indigenous groups. Reading through the minutes of these meetings it was obvious that some of the suggestions could not be included in the final statement if the Voice was to get up. Demands for another state for Indigenous people or a percentage of GDP to be paid were non-starters from the beginning.

As were the very angry statements that were made.

Then came the 26-page report which is much talked about and from which the final single page was drawn.

Clearly when one reads the 26 pages there may be things in it that might not get through, so the convenors of the final conference had to be careful; that’s why some people walked out of the conference.

If one is to make a wellinformed decision as to which way to vote then they should read the 26 pages.

If on the other hand emotion is the decision for the vote do not bother.

In fact some people may not

‘Don’t know – vote no’ is not the answer

find anything difficult in those 26 pages.

What I find difficult to understand is that if the Government wants us to understand what we are voting for why not publish those 26 pages?

The same goes for the Opposition.

The same argument applies to the media.

As Linda Burney has said, the Voice is just the start.

If we want to know what comes next we need to read the documents and make our decision based on that, not on emotion alone.

Email, Sep 1 Geoff Mitchell, Kariong

Push for a Voice is divisive

I am really disappointed about the spate of letters you publish pushing the Yes campaign.

The number of times I see or hear the 65,000 years argument and we owe the First Nations people a Voice is absurd.

What do all the hundreds of First Nations groups already established and paid for by the taxpayer do?

Is the youth crime rate related to the lack of respect for the law?

Are the health issues of Aborigines related to the lack of

personal hygiene?

Young people seem to think we owe First Nations people a Voice.

But why?

They already have lots of advocates pushing their agendas.

Why has all the money that has been spent to date on First Nations people been so ineffective?

Nobody ever addresses that critical issue.

Why does the current Federal Government need a need a new Voice lobby group?

Have they not listened to them

since they have been in office?

First Nations people have been receiving and continue to receive many financial benefits, but it seems it is never enough.

They represent five per cent of our population but get a disproportionate amount of attention and funds.

The Voice push is divisive and totally unnecessary.

And I resent the amount of taxpayer funds being spent by the Federal Government pushing the Yes agenda.

Email, Aug 31 Garry Williamson, Narara

Why I will vote No

Imagine you are suddenly and compulsorily required to agree to purchase a house.

You don’t know the price you will pay, you don’t know what the house looks like, how big it is or where it is.

You have no option – you must buy it.

And when you’ve “bought” it you can’t sell it or get rid of it.

You live in it, with it, whether you like it or not.

You cannot ask for details, because the authorities will not, or cannot tell you.

It’s a case of “You’ll know later, after you sign on the dotted line to agree to the purchase. And besides, believe us when we say that it will be a great house, and any forward-looking person, keen to see the benefits of this house, will not hesitate to sign up”.

Me?

I’m forward looking – but I just see a lot of bulldust.

That is what the Yes campaign is asking of us.

“Don’t worry, we know best what’s good for you, and our Aborigines. Trust us, we’ll work it all out later. And don’t read the fine print about treaties and reparations – just ignore those things.”

Normally, referenda have a long lead-in, with lengthy consultations, a referendum commission to work out the detail of what will be achieved, etc.

Not this one.

It looks like some feel-good thought bubble with a gung-ho

“She’ll be right – everyone will be on the same page – our page”.

But, once you get past the touchy-feely, pie in the sky rhetoric, there is no substance, no plan, no detail.

Just a lot of waffle about better

Agree or disagree with the Voice, it is a real stretch for Linda Telisman (CCN404) to state that the reason the No Pamphlet is filled with negativity is because “everything” about the Voice has a negative consequence for our nation.

Proponents of the Voice to Parliament argue that the Voice will be a practical way to improve the lives of Indigenous people based upon the input from Indigenous people across Australia as to what will work for their local communities, particularly in the areas of health, education and housing.

This translates to a positive consequence for the Indigenous people and the nation.

It is also argued that the Voice

has the potential to reduce the cost of duplicated and uncoordinated programs funded by various government and non-government agencies.

Linda Telisman’s statement that Indigenous Australians disagree widely over the Voice to Parliament is also a stretch.

According to the proponents of the Voice, surveys indicate that around 80 per cent of them are in favour of a Voice.

We should not feel that the “Don’t Know, vote No” is our fall-back position.

Give us the credit of being able to read the AEC material and other news and social media to come to our own decision on balance as to whether the Voice is or is not in the nation’s overall interest.

It is not throwing caution to

the wind to at least consider the merits of a Voice that “may make representations” to the government and Parliament.

The Constitution is only 34 pages in length (plus the reference index pages).

It provides the basic rules for the government of Australia.

The wording of the composition, powers and function of the Voice would be put forward in due course as proposed legislation by the Government of the day.

The proposed legislation would face the usual democratic bargaining and amendment process involving all Parliamentarians from both Houses of The Parliament (representing us voters), before being finally enacted.

Email, Aug 25 Peter Tognetti, Budgewoi

Voting No would be a profound disrespect

Re the letter written by Nalini Padmanabhan (CCN 403) – with the greatest respect, you clearly haven’t read the Uluru Statement from the Heart, or understood the proposal.

This gracious invitation by the First Nations (people) of this country is a very modest proposal to be recognised in Australia’s Constitution as the people who inhabited this land when the settlers came.

an advisory group that would be called The Voice.

A very reasonable ask given the history of the interactions between first settlers and indigenous peoples.

Where on earth you got the nonsense about rights to land and GDP forcefully portioned out, I do not know; but this is rubbish.

And finally, this has nothing to do with Mr Albanese or the government.

Australian people.

If the referendum is defeated it will be a slap in the face to a whole generation of indigenous leaders.

It will be profound disrespect.

As indigenous leader Noel Pearson has recently said, they offered their hand to the Australian people, and if it is refused it will be a collective insult both devastating and unforgettable.

Vote Yes.

outcomes – idealistic, not realistic.

Better outcomes should have been achieved from the myriad programs, squillions of dollars, and too-many-to-list organisations dedicated to produce these “better outcomes” over many decades.

What special magic will make this Voice achieve what has not done so already?

“Oh, but we’ll work that out down the track … once you’ve committed.”

Do the proposers of this referendum take us for idiots?

Do they expect us to walk blindly and obediently into this thing with no information?

There are better ways, and any of them would be far less controversial, and with better prospects.

Email, Sep 1 Geoff Robertson, The Entrance

They are also asking that governments listen to them through the establishment of

This invitation was made by First Nations directly to the

Email, Aug 25 Susan Biggs, Pretty Beach

Why I will vote Yes

Fifty-six years ago, in the 1967 referendum, original inhabitants of this land, who had been here for 60,000 years or more, were formally acknowledged as part of our nation’s population.

I am not qualified to speak for Aborigines.

I have not experienced the pain, loss, pillage, stolen generation and lots of other criminal acts.

Hence I will vote Yes and will ignore some mealy mouthed politician telling me to vote No.

I find it strange – a race of people who has been on this

land for less than 300 years telling another race of people who have been here for 60,000 years or more how to vote.

Email, Aug 28 Richard Ryan, Summerland Point

Rederendum proposal so wrong

(I write regarding) the upcoming referendum.

The bones of the proposal are to include reference to less than four per cent of the population in the Constitution

when the other 96 percent of the population will remain not mentioned – (this) is wrong on so many levels.

In Australia the pursuit of unity, regardless of race, colour

or background, should always be the overriding objective.

Vote No to changing our Constitution.

Email, Aug 31 Mark Williams, Mardi

Spamalot comes to The Grove

No Monty Python fan can afford to miss Wyong Musical Theatre Company’s (WMTC) Spamalot, set to open at the Grove Theatre on Friday, September 8, for a limited season.

Monty Python grew to international acclaim in the 70s. Known for its irreverent satire and surreal humour, it grew a cult like following that would create a legacy for decades to come.

At the height of its popularity audiences could enjoy television shows, radio shows, live performances, books, films and albums.

In 2004, Monty Python member Eric Idle along with long-time collaborator John Du Prez brought to the stage a musical version of one of the troupe’s most beloved films –Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

They named the new musical Monty Python’s Spamalot and it has played worldwide to sellout audiences.

When WMTC was looking for a director to bring the comedic musical to Central Coast audiences, they wanted someone who deeply understood the legacy of Monty Python while also standing for its company values.

“This is what made Daryl Kirkness the perfect fit for this production,” a spokesperson said.

Marc Calwell as King Arthur

“Daryl has been involved in many productions on the Central Coast over the last few decades.

“Most recently he directed Priscilla Queen of the Desert at Laycock Street Theatre last year.

“He is well known for being boldly original, paying homage and creating iconic productions that audiences will remember for years to come.”

Kirkness has assembled a top cast including some of the region’s best-loved performers, spearheaded by Marc Calwell as King Arthur, Jess Ferraro as the Lady of the Lake and Andrew McLennan as the steadfast and every-loyal Patsy.

Caldwell is a veteran of numerous musicals and plays for various theatre companies around the Coast.

He was most recently seen in the wildly divergent roles of Bernadette for Gosford Musical Society’s Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Atticus Finch in Wyong Drama Group’s To Kill a Mockingbird.

Ferraro recently shone as Drowsy in WMTC’s The Drowsy Chaperone and then in I love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change.

She was also in the recent Attic Theatre Company production of Sweeney, Todd McLennan returns to the stage after a 34 year hiatus.

Monty Python’s Spamalot will play at Wyong Grove Theatre from September 8-23.

Tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/wmtcspamalot

CHRISTIE

THE WOLFE BROTHERS

VIPER

CREEK BAND

THE BUSHWACKERS

S E P T E M B E R EVERY SATURDAY FREE ENTRY STARTING FROM 8PM

ART EXHIBITION

TUES 26 SEPT - MON 2 OCT

A curated exhibition & celebration of LGBTIQA+ local artists to the theme “Inclusion means you” across multiple mediums.

Art Exhibition Loud Mouth

> Free Event, All Ages

DRAG BINGO

WED 27 SEPT

Naughty Numbers

Magical Tricksters

Join the hilarious June Richards for a night of frivolity, hilarity and slightly naughty entertainment at Ettalong Diggers.

> Free Event, 18+

TEEN DANCE PARTY

FRI 29 SEPT

Rainbow Youth get your magic tricks ready, conjure up your inner strength & lets PARTY!!!

> Free Event, 12-17

SOCIAL

SAT 30 SEPT

FOXY SILVERS 55+ PICNIC

COASTIE CARNIE FAIR DAY

Bring a rug, some nibbles and lunch to share. A lo-key social , catch up with old friends or make some news ones.

> Free Event, 55+

FESTIVAL

SUN 1 OCT

Everyone is invited to the absolute beating heart of the Coastal Twist Festival where everyone comes together to celebrate humanity and connection.

A fun and culturally rich day of art, entertainment with some spectacular headliners, curated food & bar, shopping, rainbow family zone, teen hangout and the iconic Pupparazzi pooch parade.

> All ages, Family friendly

THURSGAY

TWIST EDITION

Love Club

SUPERNATURAL SUPERSTARS

BAUHAUS SPELLBOUND

YOUTH VARIETY SHOW

WED 27 SEPT

Multi-arts showcase & celebration from 12-24 yr olds - Come along for a night of family entertainment and fun.

> All ages, Family friendly

BARS

THURS 28 SEPT

Queer club night - A community get together which hosts a revolving door of local DJs, Drag, Music & Performance artists.

> Free Event, 18+

CABARET

FRI 29 SEPT

A performance party featuring some of Australias most significant LGBTIQA+ artists hosted by Spankie Jackson.

> 18+

DANCE PARTY

SAT 30 SEPT

Everybody Dance Now! Magical surrealist costume ball. DJs immersive party vibe, Headliner performers.

> 18+

SHORT FILMS

SUN 1 OCT

SHORT SHORTS

QUEERSCREEN

Get down with some chill out tunes, meal & sunset drinks over the ocean with a curated selection of short films by Queerscreen.

> 15+

LIVE MUSIC

MON 2 OCT

Diverse lineup of music artists. Go on a musical journey, find a new earworm & celebrate LGBTIQA+ talent.

> 15+

Bouddi Arts Trail returns on October long weekend

The Bouddi Arts Trail will return this year on the weekend of September 30-October 1, with a record number of 29 artists set to open their studios from 9am on both days.

Following the trail map will lead you to the artists’ studios, where you can meet them and discuss what inspires them and how they create their works of art.

Many are inspired by the natural beauty of the area, with its sweeping coastal vistas and idyllic uncrowded beaches in surrounding national parks.

Inel Date is just one of the artists set to open her studio.

“Bouddi National Park, with its walking trails, secluded beaches and towering Angophoras provides inspiration for much of my work,” she said.

The artists will showcase a diverse range of art media including ceramics, leather and wood, sculpture, paintings

(including Indigenous), photos, paper and print, driftwood and found objects, fibre and woven material.

Co-ordinator Jean Scott said artists were excited to share their work.

“We have many new artists this year with a very high standard of work and the artists who have exhibited before have all created exciting new works,” she said.

“It will be bigger and better than ever.”

The Trail Map is available on the Bouddi Arts Trail Facebook page, at local shops and restaurants and in all studios.

The Arts Trail first began in the mid-1980s with around five artists but has grown in both size and substance over recent years.

This year will be the biggest ever with 29 individual artists showing their work out of 26 venues from Killcare Heights through to Wagstaffe.

Included among them are two

couples and two sisters.

“We are excited to have several newcomers this year, all showing exceptional work and adding to the already diverse range,” Scott said.

The Bouddi Art Show will also

be held at Wagstaffe Hall over the weekend, from 9am-4pm on both days, with many Arts Trails participants exhibiting their work on the theme Seasons.

All exhibitors are either residents of the Bouddi

Peninsula (including Macmasters Beach for the first time) or have close ties with it.

This year there are 26 exhibitors ranging from established artists to hobbyists.

The majority of works on

show will be paintings of varying genres but will also include sculptures.

Virginia Henderson will officially open the Show at 3pm on Saturday, September 30, and everyone is welcome, with drinks and nibbles to be served.

There will also be some craft demonstrations over the weekend and the famous Art Show raffle will be drawn at 3.30pm on Sunday, October 1.

Exhibitors are Merran Adams, Karen Adler, Ingrid Arnott, Leah Bennetts Helena Brunner, Margaret Crane, Berengere de Tarle, David Eddie, Virginia Henderson, Meg Lewer, Kay Linton-Mann Sherilyn Mahoney, Sherry McCourt, Bronwyn McKinnon, Kathryn Moore, Swan Nelson, Cathi Ogden, Glenys Plunkett, Sancha Prowse, Annie Reid, Jean Scott, Melinda Schneider, Colin Tapping, Debra Urquhart and Liana Zverina.

Source: The Bouddi Society

Central Coast local stars in Beauty and the Beast

Central Coast local Rodney Dobson has a starring role in the spectacular Disney Theatrical Production of Beauty and the Beast now playing in Sydney.

Dobson has had an incredible musical theatre career which includes most recently understudying the role of Harold Zidler in Moulin Rouge! The Musical.

Prior to that, his theatre credits include Chicago, Evita, Les Misérables (10th and 25 anniversaries), Singin’ in the Rain, Wickes, Miss Saigon, Legally Blonde, Annie, The Full Monty and Sweeney Todd.

In Beauty and the Beast, Dobson performs alongside Shubshri Kandia as Belle’s beloved father Maurice.

Dobson, who lives at Gosford

The Sunken Monkey at Erina is set to open up the world of night-time entertainment to people of all abilities, with the launch of EnAbles at 6pm on September 10.

EnAbles will provide a safe and enjoyable place for people to dance, meet other people and enjoy themselves.

“Everyone is welcome and invited – people of all abilities, friends, parents, carers, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunties, uncles – anyone and everyone,” EnAbles founder Sean O’Neill said.

“Security will be there on the

with his family, was born in Victoria, raised in Perth and moved to Sydney to pursue his

musical theatre dream. He moved to the Coast in early 2000.

“I am lucky to have worked so consistently, very lucky,” he said.

While he has enjoyed all the productions he has performed in, he singled Sweeney Todd out as one of his favourites.

“That was an Australia Opera production, which was both terrifying and wonderfully exciting,” he said.

Beauty and the Beast opened in June at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney and is expected to run through to Christmas.

“This is the first Disney production I have been and it’s an amazingly beautiful show, a real thrill to be a part of,” he said.

The enchanting and timeless tale has been brought to life in a re-imagined production boasting all the spectacle and grandeur audiences know and love.

The production features a

Inclusive fun for all at The Sunken Monkey

night to ensure the venue is safe and friendly.

“I’ve been keen to help set up a regular social event for people with a disability on the Central Coast for quite a while.

“When I met him, I couldn’t believe how keen Sean from The Sunken Monkey (yes we have the same name) was to get an event going as well.

“EnAbles will be a fun and safe place to hang out, dance and meet new friends.”

Sunken Monkey General Manager Sean Wagstaff said he hoped the whole community would get behind the event.

The EnAbles Launch Night will feature a DJ, free pizzas and prizes, including for best dressed.

“There are a lot of people who feel excluded from going to pubs and nightclubs and places like that,” O’Neill said.

“The Sunken Monkey is changing that.

“They are providing the venue to ensure people of all abilities can come along and have a really enjoyable night.”

The venue is accessible and has accessible toilets.

Enables will be held on the second Sunday of every second

month from 6pm, with the next event set for November 12 with the theme Glo Party.

EnAbles is made possible by the sponsorship from organisations including My Home Living care, a NDIS registered disability support organisation, and is seeking more sponsore.

Everyone who registers for the event through Eventbrite will go in the draw for a $50 gift voucher.

More information is available on the EnAbles Facebook page.

total cast of 34, backstage crew of 77 including musicians, 300 costumes and 80 tonnes of scenery and automation.

Based on the 1991 film – the first animated feature ever nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture – Beauty and the Beast opened on Broadway in April 1994 and garnered nine Tony nominations and one win.

It played for 13 years on Broadway before closing in 2007 and remains to this say one of the top 19 longest running shows in Broadway history.

Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster.

Source: CCN

Rodney Dobson stars as Belle’s beloved father Maurice | Photo: David Boud

Some of the artists who will open their studios

Source: EnAbles DJ Sean will keep the hits coming at the launch

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Schneider re-releases beloved song 21 years on

Acclaimed Central Coast singer-songwriter, Melinda Schneider, has celebrated the 21st anniversary of The Story of My Life with a rewrite and re-release.

The special edition of the beloved song features an alternate, happier ending that reflects Schneider’s current journey and personal growth and has been added to Apple Music’s Aussie Country playlist and is on high rotation on Australian Country Radio.

Schneider, who lives at Ettalong Beach, launched the single with her Legends at Sunset performance at the Gympie Music Muster on Friday, August 25, to a packed

crowd on the Optus Hill Stage.

Since its original release in 2002, The Story of My Life has become her most requested song and an integral part of her illustrious career.

The single, which won the CMAA Female Vocalist of the Year Golden Guitar in 2003, quickly became a charttopping sensation, capturing the hearts of country music fans everywhere.

Known for her emotive storytelling and heartfelt performances, Schneider’s music has touched the hearts of audiences across the country and this milestone anniversary provided an opportunity to revisit the song with a fresh

perspective that only years can bring.

It’s a poignant reflection of

Frantastics raise $500 for Elsie’s Retreat

The Frantastics Choir raised $500 for Elsie’s Retreat at Gosford Hospital through its annual concert on August 14.

Choir director Fran Kendall said some audience members arrived an hour early to be sure of getting seats at the sold-out event.

The $500 donation to Elsie’s

Retreat will be made in loving memory of much-loved former choir member Peter Whiteman.

The remainder of the proceeds will go toward the choir’s expenses.

The choir already has bookings for 2024 and is inviting more.

Its one-hour program consists of easy-listening music sung in

her personal experiences and the wisdom gained over the past two decades – everything

from sell-out seasons at Sydney Opera House with her Doris Day stage show and the brave choice to go public with her struggle with depression, to her marriage to Choirboys front man, Mark Gable, and the birth of their son, Sullivan.

“I am thrilled to share this updated version of The Story of My Life (the next chapter) with my fans,” Schneider said.

“It’s incredible to think that it has been 21 years since I first released the song and I wanted to celebrate this milestone by adding a new ending that truly represents where I am in my life right now.

“The journey continues, and all these years on, I am so

happy to share the unconditional love I have finally found and for the opportunity to share the real happy ending with the fans who’ve been there from the beginning.”

As one of Australia’s most respected country music artists, Schneider has amassed an impressive catalogue of hits during her career and The Story of My Life (the next chapter), will be the second single from her much-anticipated upcoming album, Tender.

The re-released single is available on all major streaming platforms.

Source: Bec Gracie Publicity

harmony, interspersed with solos and skits.

A short melodrama can be included on request.

New members are always welcome.

Visit www.frantastics.org for information on booking the choir or becoming a member.

Source: Frantastics

The Frantastics Choir

Lisarow Probus welcomes new members

The Lisarow Probus Club creates a welcoming environment for all and is always keen to welcome new members.

Inaugurated in 2019, the club currently has 25 members, mostly retired, who enjoy attending diverse and interesting outings and activities.

It meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month at Ourimbah RSL Club.

“As well as being an excuse to get together, meetings often consist of guest speakers who share their knowledge and experiences on a wide range of topics,” a spokesperson said.

“Probus gives people a

chance to engage with likeminded people and develop new friendships.

“Once a fortnight some members attend a trivia night, testing their wits across a wide range of categories and having a few laughs along the way.

“We are a very friendly bunch of people.”

The Club welcomes all potential members. Contact 0421 310 411 for details.

Source: Lisarow Probus Club

Melinda Schneider has re-released The Story of My Life

Lisarow Probus Club members on a recent outing at the Sydney Mint

Now in its ninth year, the Big Bike Film Night celebrates cycling in all its shapes and forms with a program proclaimed as a feast of short films devised and designed for the twowheel devotees to screen on September 13 at Avoca Beach Theatre.

With humble beginnings back in 2015, the Big Bike Film Night is now a now a muchanticipated film festival which brings a love of cycling to cinemas, presenting an array of international movies specifically selected by New Zealand

Big Bike Film Night coming to Avoca Beach

curator Brett Cotter.

“Each year I set out with just one goal – to bring together the best cycling short films from around the world for our audiences,” Cotter said.

“This collection is aweinspiring and celebrates the fun, the adventure, and inspiration that bikes enable.”

The 2023 compilation contains 10 mesmerising films which are as varied and diverse as you could hope for.

This global program contains a world premiere, two fabulous Australian films and an assortment of international

films, all having their premiere at the Avoca screening.

Return to Dilon Cone, set and shot in the rugged coastal

Kaikoura ranges in New Zealand, opens the film night extravaganza and follows a team which has spent five

years formulating a dream – an attempt to reach an unridden peak accessible only by river.

The expedition has only one option to get there, taking on the jagged gorges of the Clarence River (Waiau-toa awa) by packraft, and afterwards travelling by mountain bike, in their pursuit of summiting the steep shingle-laden slopes of the imposing Dillon Cone.

“It’s adventure and above,” Cotter said.

“The power of storytelling is at the forefront of what we offer, and the belief that the humble bicycle can improve our health,

inspire and uplift people with where it can take us.

“The event brings together communities with stories that captivate us, stories that make us think, and most importantly of all, inspire us to get out and ride.”

The Big Bike Film Night screens at the Avoca Beach Theatre on Wednesday, September 13, at 7pm. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. bigbikefilmnight.nz

Source: Big Bike Film Night

Celebrate the weekend with Jamie Lindsay’s latest single

Whether your weekend falls on the traditional Saturday and Sunday or you are like Ettalong singer-songwriter Jamie Lindsay and it falls on a Monday and Tuesday, he has a song for you.

His latest single, Here Comes the Weekend, is being celebrated after Apple Music and Spotify added it to Aussie Country and Happy Hour Apple playlists, and Country Temptations, Route 66 –Country Roads, Country Road

Country Music, Country Vibes and Easy on the Road Spotify playlists.

Lindsay says the single, released late last month, was inspired by the feeling of getting the chance to kick back and enjoy family time.

“Everyone enjoys their weekend differently,” he said.

“Some people go out and travel and explore and camp but for me, when I get to the end of my week, on a Monday and Tuesday, I don’t want to do anything.

“I want to kick back, relax, be a homebody and take it all in and shake off the world.”

The family man also used the new single to celebrate his days off with his children, creating a catchy chorus to sing along to with a good “weekend vibe”.

“If you heard that song on a Friday, I really hope it would rev you up to stick it through those last few hours and get to 5pm and go and have a great weekend,” Lindsay said. Here Comes the Weekend

sees a return to the country lane for Lindsay with plenty of pedal steel and country vibes. The new single comes in the wake of his latest singles, A Lifetime to Forget You and This is Who I Am. Mixed and mastered in Nashville by Billy Decker, Here Comes the Weekend is a great celebration of everybody’s favourite days of the week.

Source: Bec Gracie Publicity

Game day to support Central Coast Kids in Need

A huge board game event to be held at Central Coast Leagues Club on Saturday, September 9, aims to raise $1,500 for Central Coast Kids in Need.

Presented jointly by the C4 Tabletop Gaming Group and the Central Coast Board Game Club, the day will comprise a Twilight Imperium, which has already reached its participation cap, and mixed board games available for interested gamers.

All proceeds from the feature event will go directly to supporting Central Coast Kids in Need, with $975 already collected through a fundraising appeal being run in conjunction with the day and a raffle, along with entry fees for the Twilight Imperium.

Spokesperson Daniel Downing said interested gamers were welcome to arrive from 10am on the day to observe the Twilight Imperium gamers in action or join in a variety of other games.

The C4 Tabletop Gaming Group primarily organises tabletop tournaments and is well regarded across the NSW scene.

The Central Coast Board Game Club (CCBG) runs weekly

game nights on Wednesday and a monthly Saturday event.

While the C4 group mainly is involved in games like Star Wars: Legion, Shatterpoint and Twilight Imperium, the CCBG is an all-inclusive club where there are no real singular games that get played more than others.

The range on offer includes everything from DnD and RPG to social deduction, strategy, casual and economic games.

There is a large game library that club members can access.

“It’s a welcoming environment where attendees can rock up with a game they want to try or jump into one of the many

groups going on the day,” Downing said.

The game day kicks off at 10am with the main Twilight Imperium event starting at 10.30am and game play continuing throughout the day until around 10pm.

While the monthly Saturday meetings normally require a board game club membership of $10 per year, the fee has been waived for this charity event.

All gamers are welcome and donations to the special fundraiser can be made at www.paypal.com/pools/c/ 8WGzWUzjoj

This year’s Big Bike Film Night promises thrills and spills

Jamie Lindsay

Gamers at a previous event

Reflections Holiday Parks is the new manager of Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve and is inviting expressions of interest from the public to become members of the Community Liaison Group that will help ensure it continues to be nurtured for future generations to enjoy.

From September, Reflections, a Crown Land Manager, will work alongside the local Norah Head Reserve volunteers to protect and maintain the muchloved headland.

Reflections CEO Nick Baker said Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve is one of the most prominent Crown Land reserves on the Central Coast and in the state.

Business & Property

New management for lighthouse and reserve

“Located on Darkinjung Country, the architecturally significant Norah Head Lighthouse and its three accommodation cottages are located on almost 20 hectares of coastal nature reserve making it a significant landmark and a highly popular tourist attraction,” Baker said.

“Reflections manages public (Crown) reserves and reinvests any profits back into the land it manages, so the appointment will help maintain Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve as a shining jewel for the Central Coast.”

Reflections is inviting residents to apply for membership of the Community Liaison Group, which will have representation from a cross-

section of the community to ensure it has a voice in the ongoing efforts to nurture the reserve.

Reflections was appointed as an ex-officio board member by Crown Lands in late 2022 after some of the existing members of the Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve board decided to retire or step down.

Baker said Reflections, the only holiday park group in Australia which is a certified social enterprise, will be guided by the Management Plan for the site and continue to work with the dedicated local volunteers who care for the site in roles ranging from gardeners to tour guides.

“The Board and many passionate volunteers have

done a magnificent job in maintaining and protecting this special site, which is evident to anyone who visits,” he said.

“Our appointment is a privilege and, together with the reserve’s volunteers, we are committed to maintaining free public access to the reserve, helping volunteers deliver on the reserve’s future plans and building a strong relationship with the community, which is why we also encourage the public to be involved in the Community Liaison Group.”

Reflections Group Operations Manager Cameron Tynan paid tribute to the many hours that volunteers and the previous Board have dedicated to preserve the reserve.

“Having visited the site many

times, we know first-hand how much work they dedicate to it, and how precious a resource it is to the community,” he said.

“We are committed to working with the community to protect and preserve the environmental, cultural and heritage values of this important community asset.”

Outgoing Board Chair Neil Rose, who will continue to volunteer his time to maintain the reserve, said Reflections’ appointment to manage the lighthouse and reserve came at the right time.

“We are a voluntary board and the business is getting very demanding as the number of visitors coming to the reserve increases every year,” he said.

“It’s appropriate to bring the operations of this iconic site under increased corporate governance with a greater focus on the management of the reserve – it’s an exceptional site that should be maintained.”

The Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve offers three guest cottages which are popular accommodation destinations for wedding groups and families.

For more information on the Community Liaison Group and how to apply, go to norahheadlighthouse.com.au/ norah-head-communityliaison-group/

Clockwise from left: Norah Head Lighthouse and Reserve, the lighthouse is one of the state’s premier tourist attractions, Outgoing Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve Land Management Board chair Neil Rose and Reflections CEO Nick Baker at NHLR

New design for Pelican Park to incorporate best of previous options

Final designs for the revamp of Pelican Park at Woy Woy are set to be made public by the end of the year, incorporating elements from both options presented during the consultation period in May.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said survey results revealed the community is very invested in the park’s future, with more than 500 submissions received.

In one of the closest results to date through a public survey, opinion was almost equally divided between Option 1 of nature play and Option 2 of pirate theme play.

As a result, a hybrid model featuring the best elements from both concepts will now progress through to a design stage.

Built in 1999, the popular waterfront playspace was slated to be closed two years ago because of safety concerns.

It received a last-minute reprieve due to community backlash, with the decision made to instead revamp the

park and three design options put out for public comment earlier this year.

Option one incorporated a nature play theme and retained all existing vegetation but did not include rubberised soft fall.

Option two retained the existing pirate play theme with a reduced playspace and retention of all vegetation.

A third option, which would have seen the removal of one Swamp Cypress which to enable a larger playspace

footprint with climbing, spinning and sculptural elements, is now off the table.

“Council has listened to the survey results and noted community preference to ensure that the swamp cypress tree is maintained in its entirety, as well as the fencing which was seen as an important part of the attraction of the playspace for parents with young children,” Smith said.

“While the design has yet to be finalised, I can confirm that the materials will be as natural as possible, and we will retain the existing fence line and picnic tables.

“This playspace will be accessible for all ages and will be a safe and inclusive space for many years to come.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the upgrade to Pelican Park was just one of many

exciting developments in the pipeline for the Peninsula community.

“Since 1999 Pelican Park has been an important playspace for the community, and it’s pleasing that this makeover will allow that to continue,” he said.

“With construction on a district level playspace in Lion’s Park less than 1km away planned to start in 2024, it’s an exciting time for the community.”

Construction at Pelican Park is set to begin after the coming summer season.

Visit Your Voice Our Coast to read the community engagement summary and find out more information about the project.

Terry Collins

Time running out to apply for help in jazzing up business facades

Business and commercial property owners in Terrigal, Woy Woy, Wyong, Gosford, The Entrance and Toukley are reminded they have until the end of this month to apply for funding under Central Coast Council’s Façade Improvement Support program.

The council is offering dollarfor-dollar matched funding of up to $5,000 per property to support the enhancement of facades, improve access, aesthetics and overall visitor experience.

Businesses can freshen up their properties by painting, adding new signage, installing a new ramp, updating awnings, and so much more. It’s all about attracting new customers and revitalising our vibrant town centres.

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the support program piloted in November last year was a success and will now include two additional town centres.

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

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

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

“By improving shopfront accessibility and aesthetics we

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

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

value of $5000 per property in eligible town centres.

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

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

“Ideas can be big or small and can include, painting, signage, updated awnings, installation of access ramps and more,” she said.

Administrator Rik Hart said Council’s Façade Improvement Support Program was a

success in 2022, with the program contributing to the revitalisation of town centres.

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

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

Applications close at midnight on September 30.

To review the funding guidelines and apply search Façade Improvement Support Program at centralcoast.nsw. gov.au

Source: Central Coast Council

Sewage treatment plant upgrade aimed at controlling odour

Central Coast Council Water and Sewer will allocate $35M towards the upgrade of the Bateau Bay Sewage Treatment Plant to not only future-proof the asset but help address the presence of odour.

Director of Water and Sewer

Jamie Loader said the main goal of sewage treatment is to create a volatile-free effluent that can be safely discharged into the environment or reused as recycled water.

“Controlling odours can be one of the most important and yet most challenging aspects of sewage treatment,” Loader said.

“There are three main reasons why odours can occur, which include inappropriate chemicals entering the

sewerage system, operational breakdowns and ageing infrastructure.

“This funding will help us

future-proof the Councilowned asset, provide better services to our community and hopefully help identify the

sources of the odours so mitigation measures can be implemented.”

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart said work was anticipated to start in late 2023, with a proposed completion date of mid-2027.

“The Bateau Bay Sewage Treatment Plant currently services a population of approximately 40,000 people, bounded by the suburbs of The Entrance North, Killarney Vale and Bateau Bay,” Hart said.

“Across the Bateau Bay Catchment, Council is adjusting the odour injection facilities at various sewage pumping stations, to help improve the

quality of the sewerage entering the plant.

“However, there is a process, and this will take time.

“While the odour is unpleasant, there is no threat to public health from the sewage treatment plant odour … and we continue to appreciate the community’s patience while Council progresses these works.”

For more information on the eight treatment plants across the region, search ‘sewage treatment’ at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au

Source: Central Coast Council

The new design will incorporate the best features of two previous options

Bateau Bay Sewage Treatment Plant earmarked for an upgrade

Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW

Board members sought for Central Coast Wetlands

Central Coast residents with appropriate skills are invited to apply for a board position on one of the region’s most important Crown Land environmental and community assets, the Central Coast Wetlands –Pioneer Dairy.

Seven board members will be appointed for up to five years to help enhance the Crown reserve as an outstanding recreational, environmental and community parkland for the region.

Applicants will need to be qualified to help develop and consult on a masterplan for the site which involves a range of quality environmental, community and recreational uses; investigate and scope out infrastructure upgrades that are needed to implement the masterplan; develop a business model for future uses of the reserve; and source funding for infrastructure upgrades. They will also be involved in managing ongoing short-term uses of the reserve and

engaging and supporting volunteers in the ongoing maintenance and environmental management of the site.

Central Coast Wetlands –Pioneer Dairy has important heritage as the largest of more than 200 dairies operating in Wyong Shire in the 19th century and remains a tangible link with the agricultural heritage of the area.

Today the reserve is the region’s largest area of open space with public access with 155-hectares of woodland, wetland and open paddocks, making it highly popular for nature lovers, families and community groups for recreation, environmental education and celebrations.

The site is home to hundreds of bird species and an enormous biodiversity of plants

and animals, as well as historic buildings, licenced cattle grazing, a golf driving range, plant nursery, wetlands rehabilitation, community gardens and education activities.

Crown Lands Executive Director of Land and Asset Management, Greg Sullivan, said recruiting community members with the right skills and enthusiasm to the board

will help support the site’s long-term sustainability.

“While the role of board members will be voluntary there will be great personal rewards in knowing that you are managing public land and assets for the benefit of the entire community,” he said.

Applications can be made online until Thursday, September 21, submitted by email to cl.reserves@

crownland.nsw.gov.au or posted to NSW Crown Lands at PO Box 2155 Dangar, NSW 2309.

For further information contact Peter Draper on 4937 9311 or visit https:// reservemanager.crownland. nsw.gov.au

Source: Crown Lands

Council’s new Community Engagement Plan

Central Coast Council has launched an annual Community Engagement Plan 2023-24 which will include progress reports to Council as part of the Operational Plan.

The Community Engagement Plan seeks to address community concerns about having more awareness of

forward community engagement activities being undertaken by Council.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said Council has an Engagement Framework defining its approach to engagement to ensure accountability and consistent application.

“The annual Community

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Engagement Plan will be available for the community to view on Council’s Your Voice Our Coast website and will be updated quarterly in line with Council’s quarterly reporting cycle,” Smith said.

“Council’s engagement platform, Your Voice Our Coast, sees an average of 98,000 unique visits annually hosting a range of projects from infrastructure delivery to policy updates.

“While Council regularly informs the community and does see high engagement, we are always looking at ways we can improve.

“By showcasing our upcoming engagement activities, the annual plan will enable a more inclusive process for community engagement, as the community can view other projects that

have not yet commenced engagement activities and share a preliminary comment on or even opt in to stay updated.

“While this is an exciting step for our engagement with the community, it is also a timely

reminder that planned activities may change and additional engagement activities may be identified as we progress projects.”

Administrator Rik Hart said Council was committed to building strong relationships

and delivering a great customer experience in all interactions.

“This plan will help to engage and communicate openly and honestly with the community to build a relationship based on trust, transparency, respect and use community participation and feedback to inform decision making,” he said.

“This plan is a roadmap for the community to ensure a balanced and collaborative decision-making process between the community and Council is achieved.”

View the Community Engagement Plan at yourvoiceourcoast.com/ engagementplan and sign up to Council’s eNews to have your say.

Source: Central Coast Council

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The wetlands is home to a variety of birdlife

Many historic buildings are on the site

Disability groups at Wyoming now have a more modern community hub following a major refurbishment.

The Wyoming Hub, operated by Aruma Disability Services, re-opened with a new look on Tuesday, August 29.

Refurbishment works began last April and were completed in July 2023 thanks to $320,000 in funding from the Department of Communities and Justice.

Celebrations to mark the opening of the new-look hub began at 10am with an Acknowledgement to Country

New look for disability hub

from Nathan Dolin, an Aruma customer living with disability.

Also at the event were Aruma CEO, Dr Martin Laverty, senior stakeholders, Aruma customers and staff.

Laverty described the refurbishment as a significant investment which will continue meeting the needs and wellbeing of people living with a disability on the Central Coast.

“We take great pride in our hub which has been an active focal point in supporting the general health and wellbeing of our customers,” he said.

“For many years, this

community hub has delivered a range of innovative programs, educational and social

services and activities.

“The ‘new-look’ hub incorporates improved access

and space for people with a disability to create new opportunities that will continue

to meet their individual goals.

“It can continue its role as a vibrant social centre for our community in the Central Coast.

“We have to move away from this idea of accessing the community, but rather inviting our community to change, to enable sincere and genuine social inclusion.

“So no matter what your ability, you are recognised, your human rights are fulfilled within our society.”

The hub is located at 289 Henry Parry Dr, Wyoming.

Bunnings backs suicide prevention initiative

Bunnings stores on the Central Coast and nationwide have teamed up with suicide prevention organisation MATES in Construction to launch new limited-edition MATES x Bunnings Trade hoodie.

Last year’s partnership raised $500,000 for MATES in Construction with funds raised from the sale of each hoodie directly invested in critical services dedicated to preventing suicide and

improving mental health within the construction industry.

Bunnings West Gosford Complex Manager Josh Mahony said this year’s partnership was officially launched with a trade brekkie on Friday, August 18.

“It was awesome to have our customers lining up bright and early to get their hands on a hoodie for such an important cause,” Mahony said.

“All profits from the hoodies are going towards MATES to

help further their work improving mental health for construction workers and we’re proud to play a small part in supporting them.”

MATES National CEO Chris Lockwood said the organisation was immensely grateful for the overwhelming support received through last year’s hoodie campaign.

“The funds raised enabled us to recruit an additional four frontline personnel, expanding our reach and impact within

the construction industry,” he said.

“We are excited about the launch of this year’s MATES x Bunnings Trade hoodie and the opportunity it presents to further our work in the construction industry.”

Bunnings Trade General Manager Rod Caust said the company was proud to be once again helping raise funds and awareness for mental health support for the trade and construction community.

“Last year’s sell-out hoodie allowed MATES to expand resources for the important work they do in mental health and suicide prevention for our industry and this year’s partnership aims to continue building on this,’’ he said.

“We are really excited to be launching the latest limitededition version of the cobranded hoodie to raise awareness and funds and prompt our team and customers to check in on a mate.”

More than 200 Australians working in the construction industry lose their lives to suicide each year, equating to a construction worker taking their own life every second day. Suicide rates for male construction workers are approximately twice that of other industry workers and they are eight times more likely to die from suicide than from a workplace accident.

Terry Collins

Source: Aruma Disability Services

Left: Aruma CEO, Dr Martin Laverty, re-opens the refurbished facility, Right: Aruma customer Nathan Dolin gave an Acknowledgement of Country

Loads of ‘stuff’ keep the storage business booming

WITH Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

Self-storage is one sector of the commercial property market that’s booming.

A downside is that investors who want to jump on the storage bandwagon have limited options, but a new kid on the block will increase their access.

The sector proved to be one of the most resilient industries in Australia during the pandemic.

As more people worked from home, many needed to declutter to provide more space and some of this clutter was moved into self-storage units.

This came on top of the main driver of self-storage: people moving house.

There’s also been an increase in e-commerce businesses that use storage units to house their inventory.

All these factors have combined to drive up occupancy and rental rates.

In contrast to the US and UK, where there are multiple listed

self-storage investments, including exchange traded funds (ETFs), Australians have had few options.

Until recently, National Storage (NSR) was the only self-storage investment trust listed on the Australian stock exchange, with 230-plus facilities.

But that changed last month when a general real estate investment trust, Abacus (ABP), spun off its portfolio of Storage King self-storage properties.

Abacus Group also holds a $1.9 billion office portfolio and a $490 million retail portfolio.

Office values fall

As a standalone trust, Storage King (ASK) will comprise a $3.1 billion portfolio of 112 trading self-storage facilities and 23 future facilities, plus the Storage King operating platform valued at $100 million.

operating earnings – of 6.3 cents per security in the 2024 financial year, of which 6 cents per security will be paid out in distributions.

For Abacus (which has retained a 19.9% stake in the trust and generates fee income as its manager), the move into self-storage has become more attractive as office values continue to fall.

This is because of higher vacancy rates – partly sparked by a reluctance of workers to return to the office – and funding costs.

as a result of strong demand and high occupancy rates.

“The self-storage market has attractive market fundamentals supported by macroeconomic tailwinds, including an imbalance in supply and demand for selfstorage space, densification of residential property, and the growth of e-commerce,” said Abacus managing director Steven Sewell when the de-stapling was proposed earlier in the year.

of about $3.1 billion, it provides storage solutions to more than 90,000 residential and commercial customers.

In its 2022-23 results released in August, National Storage said its total revenue increased to $330 million, up $51 million (18%) on the previous year.

Total assets were valued at $4.48 billion, up $535 million (14%).

than $154 million ($142 million in 2022-23) and a distribution of 90%-100%.

It pays investors distributions twice yearly and the current dividend yield is about 4.7%.

Strong investor appetite

Highlighting investor appetite for the self-storage sector in contrast to other listed commercial property, National Storage completed a $300 million equity raising in March.

It has subsequently raised a further $600 million in new debt funding to drive its expansion.

National Storage has the largest market share (18%), followed by Storage King (14%) and Kennards (12%), shows the Self Storage Association of Australia’s 2022 industry report.

High occupancy rates

How your car can pay you back

Need some extra cash?

Here are five ways your car could help cover those ever-increasing bills.

Rideshare

Getting in on one of the rideshare outfits – Uber, DiDi or Ola – can help you earn extra dollars.

Some companies offer better benefits than others.

Aussie start-up Shebah

The Storage King REIT is forecast to generate funds from operations – the equivalent of involves women driving other women (and their children).

It requires rideshare insurance, a working-with-children check and, depending on which state you live in, a commercial driver’s licence to take passengers.

The upside? Drivers keep 85% of the fare.

Food delivery

App-based food delivery services

By comparison, the performance of self-storage assets has soared including UberEats, DoorDash and Menulog can also help you make some extra cash.

There are new app-based delivery services popping up all the time, so keep your eyes peeled.

Rent out your ride

Car isn’t getting used while you take public transport to work?

Why not rent it out?

Available in all capitals and

Its established competitor, National Storage, floated in 2013 and owns and operates more than 230 centres in Australia and New Zealand.

With a market capitalisation

major regional centres, Uber Carshare (formerly Car Next Door) allows you to hire out your vehicle to those in your neighbourhood who need to get from A to B.

There are no lock-in contracts or cancellation fees.

An instant digital key, enabling renters to access your car without needing you to hand over the keys, costs $19 a month.

Cars must have been manufactured since 2001 and the engine must be less than 200 kilowatts.

According to Uber, the average

It made 33 acquisitions totalling $234 million during the year, with 45 active projects providing a strong pipeline for growth.

Looking ahead, it expects to deliver a minimum of 11.3 cents in earnings per share with underlying earnings greater

annual income for casual sharing is $3396 for cars across Australia that are available more than 60% of the time.

Rent out your car space

If you’re on the road for a few weeks and your car space is empty, websites including Parkhound, Gumtree and Parkey let you list it for rental.

With 18 spaces listed, Parkhound member Venkata claims to have earned nearly $20,000 since joining in 2017.

Storage King plans to continue acquiring and developing self-storage centres, consolidating the fragmented industry, as well generating organic growth through dynamic pricing and occupancy management.

Investors can get a stake in both National Storage and Storage King with as little as $500.

PAM WALKLEY

Become an ad on wheels

OpenAds, Wrappli and Car Quids connect you to potential advertisers and invite companies to put ads on your car.

While it’s free to become a driver, you need to let them know about your driving habits, lifestyle and car, before they match you with an ad campaign.

The downside is that only becomes lucrative if you’re driving a lot, as it’s paid based on the time you’re on the road.

CARSALES.COM.AU

The Get Active San Remo and Blue Haven campaign will run again in October, with residents encouraged to get out and take advantage of the many physical activity options that exist in that community.

The initiative, which ran for the first time in 2022, is a collaboration between Central Coast Council, the NSW Office of Sport and Central Coast Local Health District’s Health Promotion Unit.

But local psychologist and exercise scientist Dr Gordon Spence is concerned about those who want to live a more active lifestyle, yet find it difficult to turn their desire for better health into action and will present a free program called Ready2Move in conjunction with the Get Active campaign.

“Whenever people try to increase their physical activity levels, they often have a tough

Free community fitness program

time jumping the gap between positive intentions and behaviour,” he said.

“This challenge can become more difficult for people in their 40s, 50s and 60s, when physical activity levels tend to drop, physical confidence decreases, negative age stereotypes develop and people begin losing interest in activities they used to enjoy.”

Designed for residents aged between 45 and 65, Ready2Move aims to help people address challenges that might otherwise stop them.

“As good as health promotion initiatives are, most don’t do very much to help people get ready to move,” Spence said.

“So, before Get Active starts in October, we want to offer people an option that will boost their physical confidence, improve their physical activity mindset and help them develop some positive social connections.”

To run the program, Spence is looking for 15 adults (aged 45-

65) who are otherwise well but, for one reason or another, have been unable to maintain an active lifestyle.

The four-week program will be conducted at Halekulani Bowling Club, with eight 60-minute group sessions conducted on four Tuesday

evenings and four Saturday mornings.

Each 60-minute session will include 30-minutes of “activity time” and 30-minutes of “chat time”.

The activity time will include some basic physical conditioning, using entry-level

exercises designed to help people ‘wake-up’ their bodies and develop a regular pattern of movement.

The chat time will focus on helping people identify enjoyable forms of physical activity, challenge unhelpful “self-directed ageism”, set

A new lease on life through free program

Patricia and Ross Leeder have found a new lease on life thanks to the support they received from a personal healthy lifestyle coach, offered as part of a free online service on the Central Coast.

The Point Clare couple, now in their eighties, signed up for the free Healthy and Active for Life Online program to kickstart themselves back into exercising and to learn more about healthy eating habits.

“We were out of our usual exercise routine, particularly after COVID-19, and wanted to get motivated and begin eating healthier,” Patricia said.

“And now six months later we’re still completing the home exercise circuits most days,” Ross said.

“I saw the program offered support over the phone from a

personal coach, and I knew that would be the motivation we needed.”

Healthy and Active for Life Online is a free 10-week program for people aged 60 and over, or 45 and over for people who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait

Islander.

It aims to support older people to live independently by increasing their knowledge, skills and confidence in how to lead active and healthy lives, while also helping to prevent falls.

As well as a personal

telephone coach, participants receive self-paced interactive healthy eating and lifestyle modules, along with exercise videos to do in their home each week.

Ross and Patricia’s coach was Lisa Buechel, and the three decided to meet in person

to reflect on the impact the program made on them all.

“After speaking to Patricia and Ross regularly over the program’s 10 weeks, it was great to put a face to the voice on the other end of the line,” Buechel said.

“I like helping people get more active and re-engaging them with healthy habits.

“I’ve always found if you give people the support, they will succeed.”

The Leeders believe the program can benefit many others on the Coast who need the motivation and support from a personal and devoted coach.

“It was really beneficial to receive that consistent, one-toone support,” Patricia said.

“Lisa was so friendly, devoted and professional – she really knew her stuff and helped us

some motivating goals and consider possibilities for participating in Get Active San Remo and Blue Haven.

“I felt it was important that Ready2Move should happen in an active community setting, and not in a gym,” Spence said.

“Whilst there is nothing wrong with gyms, they can be very intimating for some people.

“So, I wanted a place that was both naturally social and had physical activity as a core focus.

“That’s why I approached Halekulani Bowling Club, and why I’m delighted they said yes.”

Anyone who would like more information about the free Ready2Move program, or wants to register for it, should send an email to info@ drgordonspence.com before September 14 as there are limited places available.

Source: Gordon Spence

so much to keep us committed.”

“To anyone thinking about being healthier and signing up for the program, take the courage to give it a go,” Buechel said.

Healthy and Active for Life Online is an NSW Health statewide initiative facilitated on the Central Coast by the Local Health District’s Health Promotion Service.

Programs run four times a year, with the next program starting on Monday, October 9, with registrations closing on Friday, October 6.

To register, or for more information, visit www. activeandhealthy.nsw.gov.au or contact the Central Coast Health Promotion Service on 4320 9700.

Source: CCLHD

Gordon Spence and his son Riley with paddlers from Central Coast Dragon Boat Club at Toukley, which was featured in a book they co-wrote last year

Ross and Patricia Leeder with their coach, Lisa Buechel

New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) is offering a unique wellbeing initiative to help health professionals prioritise their mental health.

Significant workforce issues experienced within the healthcare sector nationally, in addition to stress from the COVID-19 pandemic, has affected the emotional and mental health of both clinical and non-clinical primary care staff.

The PHN’s 2022 Primary Care COVID-19 Impact Survey revealed workforce shortages, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, had resulted in the mental and physical exhaustion of many health care professionals.

This has directly impacted access to primary health care services which has flowed on to impact the region’s hospital

Giving our health professionals a Lift

emergency departments.

To help health care professionals develop resilience, feel good and function effectively, the HNECC PHN is inviting primary care professionals and their families to participate in a unique wellbeing initiative called The Lift Project.

The Lift Project is a premier, evidence-based wellbeing solution for individuals, groups, and organisations designed to help people prioritise mental health and wellbeing.

HNECC PHN Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nankervis, said one of the areas of most concern was the negative effect on frontline health care workers experiencing anxiety about being exposed to COVID-19 and the consequences of this for their families.

Many health care workers have also experienced long,

irregular hours and heavy workloads, contributing to increased stress which may cause or exacerbate mental health issues or burnout, he said.

“Commencing this October, the PHN is making the Lift Project available and free,” Nankervis said.

“It’s designed to bring people

together, so we encourage health professionals to invite a colleague or family member to join them on the adventure.

“We thank our health professionals for the work they do in providing care for people living in the Hunter, New England and Central Coast regions.

“This is our way of caring for

them and their families.”

The program uses scientifically proven strategies from research in the fields of neuroscience, lifestyle medicine and positive psychology.

Created by internationally recognised wellbeing expert, Dr Darren Morton, The Lift Project experimentally explores 10 wellbeing-enhancing topics over 10 weeks (with an emphasis on mental wellbeing and resilience) that are designed to lift individuals, groups, and organisations.

The Lift Project is accessed through an online platform and can transition to face-to-face delivery as needed.

Morton said it has never been more important to provide practical solutions to building resilience and wellbeing.

“The Lift Project can be provided to large groups in a fun way, and it is easy to

implement,” he said.

“Each module follows the LETS model – learn, experience, think, share.

“It takes 30 minutes per module online or 30/60 minutes in a group setting.

“Another important benefit is that participants’ family members will be offered access to the program.

“This will provide a whole of community approach.”

Benefits from participating in the Lift Project have been highlighted in peer-reviewed journals and presented at academic conferences.

They include: a 22 per cent increase in vitality; a 42 per cent decrease in depression; a 38 per cent decrease in anxiety; and a 31 per cent decrease in stress.

Registrations can be made at www.theliftproject.global

Source: PHN

Supporting domestic and sexual violence survivors

The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) is one of six PHNs selected to pilot a new model of care to support victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence commencing in 2024.

More than $103M is being invested in pilot programs to run through Primary Health Networks (PHNs) across Australia.

The $67M Supporting Recovery pilot program will focus on the long-term recovery of victim-survivors and those residing in pilot regions will have access to free, long-term trauma-informed mental health care.

A further $36.8M will build on a successful pilot, Supporting the Primary Care response to Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence PHN Pilot, already underway to increase the skills

of staff in primary care to better identify, care for and refer people who are experiencing family and domestic violence.

The Hunter New England and Central Coast region has one of the highest rates of domestic family and sexual violence in NSW.

It’s a serious public health issue which occurs across all socioeconomic and demographic groups –predominately affecting women and children.

“Our Safe and Healthy team has a vision that all children, young people, adults and their families are supported by the primary health system to live safe and healthy lives, free of violence and its adverse impacts,” HNECC PHN Chief Executive Officer Richard Nankervis said.

“Through this pilot program, HNECC PHN has introduced a number of initiatives to enable general practices to provide

more effective care and support for people experiencing family and domestic violence.

“This includes training for practice staff, a Primary Care Action Plan and Local Links providing a one-stop referral and advice point for patients impacted by domestic and family violence and clinicians.

“This new funding will allow the PHN to establish the Supporting Recovery pilot which will provide subsidised

trauma-informed mental health support and care coordination for victimsurvivors of domestic family and sexual violence.

“The PHN thanks the Federal Government for its investment in these important pilot programs run through PHNs across Australia.”

Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Rural and Regional Health and Federal Member for Dobell,

Emma McBride, said with one in three women having experienced physical violence by the age of 15, and one in five has having experienced sexual violence, domestic and sexual violence was a major health and welfare concern for the government.

“Existing support services are often focused on crisis support which, of course is critically important,” she said.

“But people who experience family, domestic and sexual violence can experience mental health conditions – like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic disorder – for many years, and often for life.

“The Supporting Recovery pilot recognises that victimsurvivors of family, domestic and sexual violence need support for their recovery long after violence has ended to truly recover and heal from their trauma.”

Specific to the HNECC PHN,

Challenging Wills Seminar

$10.6M of the funding will be allocated to Supporting Recovery and $3M to the extension of the Safe and Healthy program.

In addition to continuing the existing Safe and Healthy pilot, further funding has been provided to support people who have experienced child sexual abuse and or sexual assault.

Both pilot programs are priority actions under the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022–2032, established by the Australian Government together with state and territory governments in October 2022.

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family, domestic, or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org. au

Source: HNECC PHN

PHN Staff, Daniel Reynolds, Jane Mendelson and Stuart Donaldson

The Central Coast will receive funds for pilot programs supporting victims of domestic and sexual assault

The Woy Woy Peninsula can’t afford to lose one more mature tree. Our community is already recognised by Central Coast Council as a heat island. The Central Coast Council’s Greener Places Strategy, adopted in July 2022, states that “older trees have greater habitat value than younger trees in the urban forest”. Austin Butler Reserve was dedicated to council for the purpose of community recreation. It is a precious green space with 44 mature trees, providing habitat to many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, microbats and insects. Central Coast Council, in its efforts to sell off our public land has, so far:

1. Failed to discharge conditions or restrictions from the land’s original dedication to council.

2. Pre-empted the outcome of a proposal to reclassify the land from community to operational to allow it to be sold.

3. Pre-empted the outcome of an amendment to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) to permit commercial use of the land which is currently prohibited.

4. Entered an agreement to sell community land to the company that owns Peninsula Plaza.

5. Attempted to wedge the community by promising to use money from the reserve’s sale to buy trees.

6. Failed to get basic facts right – resolved to sell a non-existent lot 19 instead of lot 9; the land area is over 4000m2 not the claimed 2000m2

The combined community groups of the Woy Woy Peninsula and broader Central Coast request that Central Coast Council immediately:

1. Rescinds the resolution made at the August council meeting.

2. Withdraws Austin Butler AC from sale.

3. Commits to keeping Austin Butler AC in public ownership as valued community land zoned for community recreation.

4. Tells the owners of Peninsula Plaza and their key tenant, Woolworths, to use their own land to fix unverified “safety concerns” and not expect the community to lose its reserve.

5. Commits to street tree planting and deep soil provision to address its existing obligations to fix the “urban heat island effects on the Woy Woy Peninsula” (page 38 Greener Places Strategy) without selling our public land.

SIGNED BY:

• Australian Conservation Foundation Central Coast Community Group

• Mingaletta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation

• Residents for Responsible Ettalong Development (RRED)

• Koolewong Point Clare Tascott Progress Association

• Community Environment Network (CEN)

• Pearl Beach Progress Association

• Peninsula Residents Association

• Peninsula Environment Group (PEG)

• Grow Urban Shade Trees (GUST)

• Save Central Coast Reserves

• Save Our Woy Woy

• Wildlife ARC

• WIRES

We, the undersigned community groups of the Woy Woy Peninsula and Central Coast, DO NOT accept Mr Hart’s resolution to rezone, reclassify and sell AUSTIN BUTLER RESERVE in exchange for a promise to use the sale money for a “community greening program”.

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

Tomatoes

Now is the time to get your summer tomato crops started by seed and some of the hardier or early tomatoes seedlings can certainly go into your garden now as well.

You will find that as with all plants, there is a greater variety of seeds than seedlings available and for those wanting to try heirloom and the weird and wonderful, your appetite will be rewarded by hunting down seeds.

Everyone needs a ‘Tommy Toe’.

They are a sweet cherry tomato on the larger size and are very easy to care for.

Newbies to tomato growing should try Mama’s Delight as it produces lovely salad fruits and is another easygrow plant.

Looking for a tomato with a lower acidity?

Then try ‘Yellow Mellow’.

Extend your tomato harvest by popping in the much favoured ‘Apollo’ for an early crop and a ‘Grosse Lisse’ for a mid to late cropping tomato that also has a heigh yield.

Those planning on planting into pots could try the yummy ‘Patio Roma’ or for a burst of colour, the tiny ‘Tumbler Yellow’, which can also be successfully grown in hanging baskets.

Heirlooms that add variety and interest include the colourful ‘Brandywine’, smoky flavoured ‘Black Russian’ and ‘Jaune Flamme’ is a wonderfully rich flavoured tomato that has a long cropping season. For the tomato aficionados and foodies, you will adore the delightfully complex flavours of ‘Black Krim’.

Personally, I love growing the fascinating Reisetomate, also known as ‘Travellers Tomato’ for the first time.

This lumpy-looking tom can be snacked on by pulling off the bulbous sections, hence the name.

Top Tips for Tom Success

All tomatoes need a warm, full sun position and while they are not super fussy about soil type, they will do best in a free-draining soil which is high in organic matter.

Tomatoes cannot be grown in the same spot each season as they are heavy feeders, especially of nitrogen and attract diseases that can live on in the soil and effect the next crop.

Rule of thumb is to rotate these positions every three years and an in-between crop that will help your soil is beans as they are nitrogen-fixing.

I have a ‘three stage’ method of raising tomatoes from seed to avoid early spring pest problems and to save space for late winter

crops that may still be thriving.

Seed takes about 7 to 10 days to germinate and is best planted in a seed raising mix in trays.

Keep moist, but do not overwater as they are prone to root rot and place in a sunny, warm position.

Once germination occurs, move each viable seedling to its own small pot of 50% compost and 50% good quality potting mix.

Add about ¼ teaspoon of sulphate potash and do not fertilise with any nitrogen based fertilise as these can make the plant focus too much on leaf production and not on flower and fruit production.

Once roots have filled the new pot, let the soil become lightly dry and then transplant into the garden. Plant each 1 metre apart into position by covering the stem to just over the first

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

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

Deck to Dinner Workshop – Saturday 9th September 9:30 – 11am

Funhaus Factory - 124 Donnison St, Gosford

Come along to the Fun Haus Factory and get your hands dirty (or not) with the Deck to Dinner Urban Garden Workshop focusing on giving you the startup knowledge to grow your own herbs and veggies in pots. This workshop is also suitable if you simply want to know how to grow stuff successfully in pots.

Tickets & info: naughtynoodle.com.au

Your Permaculture Garden – over 6 weeks beginning 13th September

Grow your own nutrient dense food successfully!

In this course you will learn how to create your own edible garden and live more sustainably, using permaculture practices.

The course will be held on the teacher’s own productive property and will provide an opportunity for practical experience and to learn about the different permaculture strategies to create an abundant garden.

This course is designed for everyone, no matter what the size of your own space, from a balcony to acreage, for renters, community gardeners and homeowners alike.

The course is scheduled over 6 sessions of 3 hours each, delivered over consecutive weeks, with a break in the middle for school holidays.

Info and tickets: synergypermaculture.com.au

GARDENING PLANNER

While the temperatures are rising, be careful in frost-prone areas as it’s still a little early for some plantings. You can plant the following now: culinary herbs, artichoke suckers, asparagus crowns, beetroot, broad beans, cabbages, carrots, cress, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard, onions, parsnip, peas, potatoes, rhubarb crowns, silverbeet, African marigold, delphinium, dianthus, English daisy, gloxinia, gypsophilia, mignonette, spider flower, statice

Cheralyn is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’

8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3

contact@cheralyndarcey.com

cheralyn.darcey

cheralyn

two leaves as this will encourage deeper root growth.

Feed each plant with an organic fertiliser and water.

Provide support for each plant by either using a tomato cage or plant trellis or by surround with 3 to 4 wooden stakes.

These need to be at least 1.5m in length for most varieties and 2m is best.

Tomato stems break easily so as the plant grows, tie to stakes or trellis with a soft, flexible garden tie.

Something with a bit of give is best and old pantyhose is a brilliant eco solution.

Lastly, add mulch to the top of the soil as this will help retain nutrients and water and deter weeds and pests.

Snip off some of the lateral stems as the plant grows to increase air circulation.

Most tomatoes may be grown successfully in large

containers if you are prepared to keep an even closer eye on your plants as they will need greater attention.

Tomatoes in containers will dry out very quickly and as they are heavy feeders, you will need to ensure that you use a top-quality potting mix and enrich the soil regularly with an all-round organic fertiliser.

Try compact tomato plants for the best results and ensure your pots are at least 40cm in height and in width for each plant.

Lastly, don’t forget that when watering to avoid splashing on the leaves as this can encourage disease and pests; space at least 1 metre apart for good air circulation; wash hands and tools with a disinfectant between working with each plant to avoid the spread of pests and disease and treat problems quickly.

SPECIAL OFFER

Spend over $160 and receive a FREE BOOK

Tension mounts as major semis approach

RUGBY

As the Central Coast Rugby comp draws to a close, Terrigal will take on Warnervale in the Premier 1 minor semi-final and Avoca Beach will clash with the Razorbacks in the major semi-final on September 9.

The elimination semi-final at Woy Woy Oval on September 2 saw Warnervale outlast Gosford to score a 32-13 win.

The hard-fought contest saw Warnervale cement victory only in the last 20 minutes of the game.

The first half saw the lead see-saw between the two teams, with the score locked at 13-all going into the half-time break.

But early in the second half Gosford lost a player to a red card and Warnervale ramped up the pressure, crossing for

three tries, two of them in the last 15 minutes of the match.

Warnervale had some

standout players but none were better than No.8 Tevita Piukala, five-eight Sione Braxton and lock Enosi Falekaono, who

crossed for two tries. Gosford was best served by locks Mitch Parker and Taylor Mildren and five-eight Josh

McGlynn.

The match sees an end to the season for Gosford.

The qualifying semi-final between Terrigal and the Razorbacks was an enthralling contest, with the Razorbacks finally scoring a narrow 22-21 victory.

Terrigal had the better of the first half and went to the halftime beak leading by 15-0. Terrigal looked set for the win, but the Razorbacks found their stride in the second half, crossing for two tries at the 26th and 30th minutes of the second half to secure the victory.

Best players for Terrigal were Macklan Collins and props Harry Gray and Antonio Cunha while the Razorbacks were best served by Owen Turner, prop Mackenzie Zammit and flanker Matt Martin.

Gosford/Kariong took out the

President’s Cup minor semifinal, defeating Avoca Beach by the narrow margin of 10-9.

The Women’s 10s minor semi-final saw The Lakes defeat the Razorbacks by 2221.

Major Semi-final Day kicks off at Woy Woy Oval at 10am on Saturday, September 9, with the Razorbacks taking on Terrigal in the President’s Cup.

At 11.30am, the Premier 2 major semi will see Terrigal and Avoca Beach clash and at 1.10pm Terrigal and Avoca Beach meet again in the Women’s 10s major semi.

The Premier 1 action begins at 2.15pm, when Terrigal meets Warnervale in the minor semi-final.

At 4.15pm Avoca Beach and the Razorbacks will meet in the major semi-final.

Get excited about world water ski championships

Member for Gosford Liesl

Tesch is encouraging the community to get excited about the IWWF World Water Ski Racing Championships to be held on Brisbane Water in November.

She said the Australian Water Ski Championships, which were held on the Gosford waterfront on August 12-13, were a great “test event” for the world championships and an amazing spectacle.

During the competition, Australian water skiers battled to secure their place in the world championships, to be hosted on the Central Coast from November 9-19 in what is anticipated to deliver a real boost to the local economy.

Tesch said the Australian Championships showcased

everything the Coast has to offer.

“For those who watched the races from the various vantage points – Gosford waterfront, Drifters Wharf, Gosford Sailing Club, along Point Frederick and the marine rescue site at Point Clare, it was a sensational spectacle,” she said.

“The Australian championships were phenomenal.

“The Gosford waterfront was glistening and on the world stage all weekend, with water skiers bringing their craft, their support team and their families.

“We’ve heard about accommodation being booked up and a tremendous festival atmosphere over the two days that people of all ages were able to experience.

“We look forward to

welcoming people from interstate and all around the world to the world championships event this November and showcasing the very finest of our region– our

natural environment, our cafes, restaurant and of course our warm hospitality.

“This will be a great injection to the local economy over this 10-day event, showcasing the

Coast and our beautiful waterways to the world.

“There is still plenty of time to plan a fantastic weekend adventure around this event.

Help the Rebels get to the Nationals BASKETBALL

After a consistently dominant year of JPL basketball, the Central Coast Rebels Under 14 men have qualified for the National Club Championships to be held in Victoria from September 24-29.

The competition will see the best 48 men’s and women’s club teams from around Australia compete on the big stage.

Coached by NBL1 Crusaders Hammish Loader and Alex Bailey, this is the first Central Coast Rebels team to make the Nationals in eight years with Coach Bailey being a part of

that 2015 Under 14s team.

The Rebels’ path to the Nationals was paved with milestones and achievements including taking home the Coastal Classic and John Martin Country championships.

Attending a national competition involves a lot of expenses which is why the team has turned to the community for a helping hand in raising funds.

Their latest venture is a wine and beer tasting night to be held at Six String Brewing at 7pm on Friday, September 9. Six String Brewing Company and Henty Farm Wines will join forces to host the event and support the Rebels team.

“I encourage every Coastie to get down and show support for world-class sport right here on the Coast.”

During the IWWF World Championships events, competitors race four times over 10 days in classes for Open Men and Women, Formula 2 Men and Women and Junior Boys and Girls, with the World Champion obtaining the most points from three out of the four races in each class.

Races are timed over a 5km course with multiple laps run by competitors.

Water ski racing teams consist of a driver, observer and skier with boats reaching speeds of 120mph.

Tickets are $50 per person and include a wine and beer tasting, plus a grazing platter. Tickets can be purchased on Central Coast Basketball’s website with all proceeds going to help the boys make it to Victoria for a shot at a national title.

Tickets to the Under 14 Club Championships in Casey Victoria can be found on Intix and if you’d like to watch the Rebels online in their first matchup against the Warwick Senators at 9am on Sunday, September 24, links can be found on the Kommunity TV website.

Stefan Kataric

Source: Central Coast Rugby

Warnervale outlasted Gosford to score a 32-13 win in the elimination semi-final

The Rebels Under 14 team | Photo: Kristen Russell

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch at the Australian Championships

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners have signed Colombian forward Ángel Torres on a two-season deal.

The 23-year-old arrives at the club having most recently played for Maltese team Balzan FC, scoring 14 goals and assisting six in 22 Maltese Premier League appearances.

A highly technical player with fantastic dribbling abilities and an eye for goal, the forward was transferred from Colombia to FC Porto’s academy for almost $2.5M AUD in 2018. He immediately joined up with the Portuguese giant’s youth teams, scoring twice in the 2018/19 edition of the UEFA Youth League, helping the

Angel joins the Mariners

squad reach the final.

With Torres wearing the number seven, the team won the tournament and was crowned the best youth team in Europe after defeating Chelsea 3-1.

Off the back of this result there were extremely high expectations for Torres, with his performances demonstrating his clearly exceptional talent.

He played alongside numerous current Porto first team players in that youth squad, as well as Arsenal player Fabio Vieira.

After appearing in the Portuguese second division for FC Porto B, Torres was transferred to fellow Portuguese

club Alverca, before finding his way to Balzan in Malta.

After one successful season with the club, which included helping them finish fourth and secure a place in the Europa

Conference League qualifying rounds, Torres now heads to the Central Coast to continue his footballing journey.

The forward said he was thrilled to be linking up with the

Mariners, having seen what the club does to help young players reach their potential.

“I am very happy to be joining the champions of Australia and am very excited to work with all of the staff and my new teammates ahead of the upcoming season,” Torres said.

“It is a really nice and interesting project for me to join.

“I feel I am going to fit in with very well where they promote young players.

“It is a club that helps these players reach the highest level so I think it will be a great place for me.”

Coach Nick Montgomery has been a long-time admirer of the forward.

“Ángel is a player we have known about for a while since his days in Portugal, winning the Under 19’s UEFA Champions League with Porto,” Montgomery said.

“He is a very talented player who scores and assists, is good one on one and works very hard for the team.

“We believe Angel has the ability to play at the very top level and, as for many, the Central Coast Mariners can be the springboard for him to get there.

“We are really excited for him to join the squad in preparation for the upcoming AFC Cup and A-League competitions.”

Source: Central Coast Mariners

Mariners coaching staff additions are world class

The Central Coast Mariners have announced some exciting additions to the coaching staff for the upcoming season.

Former German international Nicolai Muller and former Leeds United and QPR analyst Andres Clavijo are both joining the coaching staff.

Muller, who has almost 200 games of experience in the Bundesliga, retired from professional football after playing for the Central Coast during the 2021/22 A-League season.

Müller was Nick Montgomery’s first ever signing as head coach of the Mariners.

The former midfielder joins

the Central Coast in his first coaching role, tasked with the job of helping develop individual youth players and run training sessions for those who do not travel away for AFC Cup games.

He will also be helping Montgomery and Sergio Raimundo at training with the day-to-day workings at the Mariners Centre of Excellence.

Muller said he was excited to be back working with the Mariners, having joined up with the coaching staff a few weeks ago.

“It is amazing to be back with the club, it feels very familiar being here,” he said.

“I know a lot of boys who were here when I was here as

well as Monty and Sergio, so it is great.

“When I left the club, I was still in regular contact with

Monty and Sergio all last season and watched the incredible journey.

“We had a little conversation

and Monty offered me a position in his coaching staff and I said yes straight away.”

Clavijo has spent much of his life in England and is moving to Australia for his first role outside of Europe after signing up as analyst and coaching assistant for the Mariners.

Fans of the English Premier League may recognise the Colombian from his highprofile stint with Leeds United. He said he was extremely excited to get started with the Mariners.

“I am super excited to be on the Central Coast,” Clavijo said. “It seems like an amazing place to work, and I cannot wait to get started with Monty,

Sergio and all of the boys.”

Montgomery said he was thrilled to have both Clavijo and Muller join the Mariners’ coaching staff.

He said Clavijo’s popularity during his time at Leeds spoke volumes about his character.

He said Muller was an extremely valuable addition to his coaching staff.

“It’s great to have Nico back at the club,” he said.

“He has so much knowledge and experience and was a very popular member of the squad in my first season as head coach.

Angel Torres, the Mariners’ latest signing

Source

Central Coast Mariners

Andres Clavijo with Nick Montgomery - Clavijo and Nicolai Muller are joining the Mariners coaching staff

Coast riders bound for top equestrian event

Gosford Race Club will sponsor three riders in Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia’s Equimillion Equestrian Competition at Sydney in October.

In its first year, the event will offer more than $1M in prizemoney, distributed across four disciplines for retired thoroughbreds; Eventing, Jumping, Dressage and Show Horse awarded to Junior, Amateur and Open Professional Competitors within each division.

The club received a huge response to its request for applicants, awarding two full sponsorships to local riders Skye Regan and Sally-Ann Gemenis. Regan will compete in Eventing and Show Riding with the former Kylie Gavenlock-trained Deangelo.

The gelding concluded his racing career at Gosford in 2018, before being re-trained by Regan at the beginning of this year.

“I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to compete in the Equimillion event thanks to the race club’s sponsorship,” she said.

“To be able to participate in an event with such high-level riders will be an amazing experience and one I’m sure I will take much wisdom from.”

Gemenis will be compete in Show Jumping, with Greg McFarlane’s Golden Tycoon.

The eight-year-old gelding’s most significant win was in 2019 when it took out the Polytrack Provincial Championships Gosford Qualifier at Newcastle, going on to compete in the final at Randwick.

“I feel honoured and privileged to have the opportunity to represent Gosford Race Club in the inaugural Equimillions with a horse that has meant a lot to me and my career in racing,” Gemenis said.

“Golden Tycoon has a very special place with me as I have been involved with him since he was a yearling and through his entire racing career through the trials and tribulations.

“I was blessed to have the owners retire him and give him to me.

“I have been re-training him for his new career in show jumping.”

The club has also offered Annie McDonald a part sponsorship for her horse, Lucky Dubleo.

McDonald currently works for Gosford’s Jake Hull who secured his first win as a registered

trainer in December 2022 and his first metropolitan win earlier this year.

Lucky Dubleo (known as Lacey) has previously been the face of The Coast campaign.

CEO of The Entertainment Grounds, which is the home of Gosford Race Club, Daniel Lacey, praised the inaugural event.

“It’s a great initiative, giving retired racehorses an opportunity for life after racing,” he said.

“Gosford Race Club is happy to support industry stakeholders, with two of the riders a part of trackwork here.”

The Equimillion will be held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre on the October long weekend.

Source: Gosford Race Club

Annie McDonald has received a part scholarship

Skye Regan with Deangelo

Sally-Ann Gemenis with Golden Tycoon