Coast Community News #410

Coastal Twist a raging success

Alarm bells ring over The Entrance channel

See page 3

Out&About

Bateau Bay residents want their stairs back

The case of the disappearing stairs leading to a popular Bateau Bay reserve has infuriated residents who are demanding Central Coast Council reinstate the stairs it took away.

The reserve, located between Blue Lagoon Caravan Park and Shelly Beach, was accessed via a staircase from Bateau Bay Rd.

Recently, members of the local Landcare group which had been working for years on clearing noxious weed to form a community path from Blue Lagoon to Shelly Beach were stunned to find the stairs to the reserve were missing.

Coordinator of the Save Our Stairs

Group Judy Townsend said the reserve

was extremely popular and used for birthday parties, weddings, family reunions and end of year sports days. But, despite boasting wellmaintained toilets and barbecues, without stairs the community cannot access the reserve unless people walk through the caravan park, onto the beach and across to the reserve. Townsend said the stairs were built in 1979 as a gift to the community from the caravan park in an agreement with Crown Land.

She believes following the recent discovery that the agreement was now invalid, and that Council was responsible for the maintenance of the stairs, a decision was made to remove them.

“We wonder at the haste of the decision once Crown Land informed Council that the previous agreement with the caravan park was invalid,” Townsend said.

She said Council also showed no local knowledge of the area in classifying the stairs as “beach access” which would require highly engineered stairs.

“These stairs clearly are not affected by tide, king tide, beach erosion – they are on grass and about 150m from the beach,” she said.

“There is a set of stairs on the eastern side of the reserve that fits that description, perhaps that’s where the confusion began.

Continued page 10

Mavis Bramston doco at Avoca Beach

See page 17

Business

Visitor centre rises from the ashes

See page 23

Sport

Thousands attend Rugby League Koori Knockout

See page 32

Puzzles page 16

Judy Townsend and The Entrance MP David Mehan at the top of Blue Lagoon Reserve, where the stairs used to be

The crowd at Fair Day

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Fire and storm season – a time for community cooperation

EDITORIAL

Last weekend’s record heatwave has the Central Coast bracing itself for another challenging bushfire and storm season, and the importance of community cooperation cannot be overstated.

form their own emergency responses in partnership with established authorities; this should be encouraged.

It is time to recognise that we are all in this together and that our collective efforts can make a significant difference.

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.

Managing Editor: David Abrahams

Print Editor & Senior Journalist: Terry Collins

Journalists: Sue Murray, Denice Barnes, Merilyn Vale

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee, Kirrily Dures

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Contributors: Cheralyn Darcey, Stefan Kataric

Publisher

In recent years, we have seen the devastating impact of these events on our communities, from loss of life and property to widespread power outages and disrupted services.

Central Coast Newspapers has for decades reported on the remarkable people, emergency services and community groups that tirelessly put in work to keep us all safe.

All these great people emphasise the critical need for a united front in preparing for and responding to the trials of bushfires and storms.

Some local community groups around the region have been collaborating to

Central Coast residents are no strangers to the destructive forces of nature; the 2019 fires and the subsequent Royal Commission and enquiries sharpened our planning approaches.

Though it is always the onground response that work the best.

First and foremost, preparedness is key.

This involves individual homeowners taking proactive steps to safeguard their properties by clearing debris, creating defensible spaces and having evacuation plans in place.

Equally important is community-wide cooperation in organising drills, establishing emergency response teams and sharing resources.

By pooling our knowledge and resources, we can better protect our neighbourhoods.

During a crisis, communication can be a lifeline.

Our authorities must invest in community alert systems, public education campaigns and neighbourhood networks to ensure that information flows efficiently.

Every resident must be aware of the latest updates and take appropriate actions, whether it’s evacuating an area at risk of fires or securing their homes against impending storms.

Supporting vulnerable members of our community is another crucial aspect of cooperation.

The elderly, disabled, and those with limited resources may require assistance in emergencies.

Neighbours helping neighbours can save lives and ensure that no one is left behind during evacuations or power outages.

In addition to individual and

community efforts, our local governments and emergency response agencies play a vital role.

Adequate funding, welltrained personnel and up-todate equipment are essential to effective disaster management.

We must hold our elected officials accountable for prioritising these needs and establishing clear disaster response plans.

Fire and storm season is a stark reminder of the shared vulnerability we face.

Community cooperation is not just a matter of convenience but a matter of survival.

By working together, we can mitigate the impact of these natural disasters, protect our homes and ensure the safety and well-being of every resident.

It’s time to unite, prepare and support one another through the challenges that lie ahead.

David Abrahams – Managing Editor

Donation for Allawah House

The Older Women’s Network (OWN) Deepwater Woy Woy has delivered goods valued at just over $650 to Allawah House at East Gosford.

The gift comprised 10 sets of quilt cover sets and doonas as well as a large laundry product donation.

Allawah House is a refuge accommodation centre for women over the age of 55, some of whom are victims of

domestic and/or family violence.

Deepwater OWN committed to the Allawah House Project after joining the Action on Housing for Older Women (AHOW) committee which was set up at the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdowns by Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch to address homelessness of older women in the community.

The AHOW comprises a number of philanthropic

charities such as the Elderslee Foundation, Mercy Foundation and community groups such as Deepwater OWN, Brisbane Water OWN, Zonta, Pacific Link and Coast Shelter.

Residents are assisted into affordable housing and committee members work hard to kit those residents out when they move out of Allawah House.

This allows new women to take up the rooms which have been vacated and the process starts afresh.

OWN Deepwater also recently undertook a project to reprovision the food larder at Mary Mac’s Place, Woy Woy,

after it was reported that food stocks were badly in need.

Project Officer Sally Baker assembled $500 worth of cereals, fruit poppers, milk, biscuits, baked beans, spaghetti, pasta, pasta sauces, tinned soup, tinned stews, up and go drinks, muesli bars, microwavable pastas and soups, noodles and jelly fruit cups.

Deepwater OWN will likely repeat its donation closer to Christmas, when the demand for hampers and meals is likely to rise.

Source: Deepwater OWN

Gail Lai and Jennifer Brown of OWN Deepwater at Allawah House

Alarm bells over The Entrance channel

Alarm bells are ringing for residents and businesses at The Entrance with many saying the channel and the lake are in the worse shape they’ve seen.

The channel is almost fully blocked, with water only able to get into the lake at high tide, and just a trickle getting out.

Many longtime residents say they can’t remember it being as bad as it is now and they fear a rain event will cause severe flooding.

“It is pretty bad at the moment, and I have lived here a long time,” resident Steve Stapylton said.

“Water can only just get in and hardly any is getting out meaning there is no flow, and there’s so much sand, it looks like another country.

“Nature put it there, and nature can take it away with rain, which at the same time could cause flooding.

“Fish and prawns can’t get into the lake to spawn – with no prawns, there are no fish and with no fish there are no tourists because they all want to fish.

“You can’t fix the problem; the only solution is maintenance.”

Stapylton said numerous reports and studies over the years showed there was no way of fixing the problem.

“What it needs is maintenance throughout the year – it needs

digging out three or four times a year,” he said.

“Put the sand in front of The Entrance North homes where they really need it, or in front of Dunleith Caravan Park and make a beach for the tourists.

“I think the Council has missed the boat now – the lake is very low at the moment, and it needs rain to move the sand, but at the same time rain could cause flooding.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said he would be seeking advice on what can be done to improve the situation.

“Council removed 26,650m3 of sand from the channel in May this year using funds provided under the NSW

Government’s Boating Access Dredging Program,” he said.

“The channel remains in a constricted state due to natural sand buildup and the current dry weather means there is little water outflow to push sand from the channel mouth.

“Council still has $163,174 in funding to undertake work in the channel, and I will be taking advice on what further can be done to provide a better exchange between the ocean and the lake.”

A Central Coast Council spokesperson said the gradual narrowing of The Entrance channel was a temporary phenomenon unique to Intermittently Closed and Open Lakes and Lagoons systems

(ICOLLs) like Tuggerah Lakes that are dynamic and constantly shaped by coastal and catchment processes.

“This natural movement is influenced by two opposing influences – freshwater from rainfall in the catchment area pushes sand out of the channel, whilst the relentless ocean waves deposit sand into the channel,” she said.

The spokesperson said in recent times, with a noticeable decrease in rainfall, the ocean’s waves have tipped the balance, causing an accumulation of sand on the berm.

“This constriction, while seemingly problematic, actually brings many benefits

for the overall health of the estuary,” she said.

“A narrower channel maintains slightly higher water levels within the lake, enhancing its ecological dynamics.

“The increased depth of water helps immerse the lake’s fringing wetland habitats, assists with the distribution of wrack and improves mixing of the water between shallow nearshore areas and deeper parts of the lakes, resulting in improved water quality, especially in the nearshore zones.

“Tuggerah Lakes are marginally higher than the ocean (currently about 29cm above mean sea level), perched

“uphill” above sea level like a bathtub perched above the floor.

“If the channel was kept wide open all the time the lake’s water levels would slowly drop during periods of reduced rainfall.

“Such a scenario would have a negative impact for water quality, wildlife, and community recreational activities.”

She said Council continued to monitor the situation and remained ready to implement the Interim Entrance Management Procedure in the event that a severe weather event is predicted.

She said works recently completed would help ensure the Council was prepared should intervention be required for flood mitigation purposes.

To learn more about Council’s procedure for managing The Entrance Channel, including water levels and intervention triggers, go to centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/environment/ coastlines/estuaries-lagoonsand-wetlands/tuggerah-lakesestuary

Council also encourages the community to visit https:// www.centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/plan-and-prepareemergency to be informed on the best way to plan and prepare for an emergency, including flooding, to help alleviate any impact.

Keeping Avoca Beach clean

About 10kg of rubbish was collected at Avoca Beach on Sunday, September 24, as part of Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup.

Plastic Free Avoca Beach, together with an army of enthusiastic volunteers, conducted the clean-up, with roughly half of the items recyclable.

Spokesperson Jan Aitchison said the number of plastic containers and glass bottles was noticeably less than in previous clean-ups but more

Roadworks at Kanwal

There will be changed overnight traffic conditions on Wallarah Rd at Kanwal for the next five weeks.

Maintenance work will be carried out at the Walker Ave intersection, including red light camera installation.

Beginning on Tuesday October 3, work will be carried

out from Monday to Friday between 7.30pm and 4.30am and is expected to be completed over five weeks, weather permitting.

A single lane closure with stop/go signage and a 40km/h speed limit will be in place during work hours.

Motorists are advised to drive

than 250 cigarette butts, five balloons and fishing wire and tackle were collected from rocks at the beach.

“Discarded fishing gear continues to be one of the major risks to marine wildlife,” Aitchison said.

“We urge people to be mindful of what they leave behind on the beach, and the danger it can pose for seabirds and other marine animals.”

International Coastal Cleanup partners with volunteer organisations around the globe to help remove rubbish from beaches and waterways.

The global organisation has been operating for more than 35 years, and in that time 17 million volunteers have collected more than 150,000 tonnes of rubbish.

“Even with these huge numbers, every small action can make a huge difference,” Aitchison said.

“Every plastic bottle, every plastic straw, every small piece of rubbish that is collected leads to a cleaner, healthier ocean.”

Plastic Free Avoca Beach encourages anyone who is passionate about clean, healthy

oceans to join the community organisation.There will be another beach clean-up on Avoca Beach on March 3, 2024, for Clean Up Australia Day.

More information about how to join Plastic Free Avoca Beach and details of future events can be found at plasticfreeavocabeach.org or email info@ plasticfreeavocabeach.org

Source: Plastic Free Avoca Beach

to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

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

Denice Barnes

Residents are concerned over the blockage of The Entrance channel Steve Stapylton is concerned a rain event could cause severe flooding

map showing the location of the roadworks Photo: Transport for NSW

Photo: Transport for NSW

Coast Connect

Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre officially open!

Over the October Long Weekend, the brand-new Mangrove Creek Dam Visitors Centre re-opened for the community to enjoy!

The new space offers stunning views over the pristine natural hinterland landscape and is packed with features including:

• a new interactive visitor education centre

• new accessible family-friendly amenities block

• new children’s play space, picnic tables, shelters, BBQs, bins and bench seating

• native landscaping to picnic areas

• wayfinding and interpretive signage

• improved pedestrian and vehicle access including new parallel bus parking for larger groups.

This new site was designed in partnership with our community and is a product of this successful community consultation and collaboration. I’d like to thank all those community members who took part in the process and shared their vision for the revitalised site.

For more information search ‘Mangrove Creek Dam Visitors Centre’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

The next ordinary Council meeting will be held at Wyong on 24 October 2023. Members of the public are welcome to attend, and these meetings are webcast live on YouTube. The Public forum starts at 5.45pm with the Ordinary Council Meeting commencing from 6.30pm.

For more information, search ‘council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s On

The Sustainable Future Festival is back!

This family friendly event offers a program filled with environmentally friendly activities, workshops and demonstrations.

• Saturday 14 October (12pm-8pm) Sunday 15 October (9am-2pm)

• The University of Newcastle, Ourimbah Campus: 10 Chittaway Rd, Ourimbah

For further information, visit sustainablefuturefestival.com.au

We’re listening to improve customer experiences

We have developed a new Water and Sewer Customer Charter and Customer Complaints Management Framework developed in collaboration with our customers. The Charter outlines Water and Sewer standards of service and our mutual responsibilities with customers as defined by our newly customerdefined water and sewer values.

For more information on these documents, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com

Community comes together in Ourimbah

Land at 1A Jaques Street Ourimbah, with a rich history of community use, has been formally transferred to Council and we are now asking you to share your thoughts, ideas and feedback regarding potential uses for the site.

You can participate in the community consultation via a short survey and our interactive ideas wall until 30 October 2023.

To share your feedback via this survey, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com

Support for creatives to deliver new and contemporary works

Registrations are now open for the next round of Creative Art Central commissions. The program has been designed to inspire local creatives to deliver new and contemporary creative work that demonstrates a strong connection to community and opportunities for participation.

To register for this program, search ‘creative art central’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Wyong Pool upgrades complete in time for new swim season

Swimmers are welcomed back to Wyong Olympic Pool, with recent upgrades now complete.

Expect a refreshed and upgraded facility worth over $100,000 in capital works expenditure. These works also include the construction of a new shelter over the pool’s 312 seating area for spectators to cheer on competitors.

For more information, search ‘pools’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Did you know?

The

2023 Beach Season has begun!

Welcome back to our Council Lifeguards and Surf Life Saving volunteers to our 15 patrolled beaches across the Central Coast. These popular beaches will be patrolled seven days a week from 9am-5pm.

Lifeguards and lifesavers are always happy to give advice about beach conditions.

To find a patrolled beach near you, search ‘beaches’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Pressure mounts over off-leash dog areas

With consultation on Central Coast Council’s revised draft Dogs in Open Spaces Action Plan now having closed, Terrigal Haven Dogs and Friends have issued a last-minute plea to Administrator Rik Hart to retain the off-leash dog park at the popular spot.

The draft Action Plan considered options to cut down or remove the off-leash area at The Haven, or replace it with a smaller, leashed area, much to the ire of local dog owners. With Council now set to consider feedback from the latest consultation period, Hart seems unlikely to be swayed after telling the August council meeting that suggested changes at The Haven were all about “managing risk” and an alternative site for an off-leash dog area had been proposed at Wamberal.

Hart said there were more areas available on the Central Coast for off leash dogs than in most other council areas and

there was a “need for compromise”, with The Haven unsuitable for off-leash dog activity due to its popularity with families with prams and older people, car movements, sporting fields and cliff edges.

But Terrigal Haven Dogs and Friends spokesperson Trish Stack said the proposal to decommission the space and make it on-leash only could have detrimental consequences

for residents and visitors as well as dogs.

“The proposed change to onleash only would expose pedestrians to multiple dogs on pathways, the beachside promenade and picnic areas,” she said.

“This increases the risk of entanglements, conflicts and accidents involving dogs, residents and tourists.

“Terrigal Haven’s off-leash

dog park has been a safe and enjoyable space for responsible dog owners to exercise their pets and socialise.

“Removing this space undermines the community’s wellbeing and quality of life.

“The off-leash area promotes responsible dog ownership, allowing dogs to socialise and exercise while under control.

“Removing this space will lead to more dogs being walked

off-leash in high pedestrian areas.

“On-leash dogs can be more vulnerable and reactive, potentially leading to increased conflicts.

“The proposed change could burden local authorities with more disputes and complaints.”

She said the group supported the retention of a safe fenced off-leash area at Terrigal Haven and urged Council to reconsider the proposal.

Council is also facing pressure to reconsider a proposal to reduce the size of Pippi Point off-leash dog area at Davistown, with more than 3,200 signatures on a petition calling for it to be retained in full.

Hundreds of dogs and their owners gathered on site on September 10, with a reduced off-leash area set to cut off beach access for owners and their dogs.

“Council is trying to (cut) down the dog park in a misguided attempt to protect a bird which has never nested,

Have input into Lions Park revamp

Next year is shaping up to be the year of the playspace as Central Coast Council gets set to deliver several new projects across the region and residents are being invited to participate in a survey to help shape the future of Woy Woy Lions Park.

The popular park has long been earmarked for an upgrade, and a new district level playspace will ensure that it remains central in the lives of Peninsula families for many years to come.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said with the

project about to enter crucial design work the time was right to find out more about what the community wanted to see in a future playspace.

“We have a fantastic response from the community who got very involved in the recent Pelican Park concept design survey, and what was indicated in their answers was a real passion for Lions Park as they didn’t want funding to be removed from the new district playspace,” she said.

“This survey will provide Council staff a snapshot of how Lions Park is currently used as we seek to understand the demographics of its users.

“We want to know who uses the playspace, why and how often they use it and what would benefit them.

“This feedback is important as it will inform the future

design and help us deliver a playspace that meets the diverse needs of the community.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said he hoped the

Sustainable Future Festival returns

The Sustainable Future Festival will return to the Central Coast on Saturday and Sunday, October 14 and 15, taking over the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus to celebrate all things sustainable.

The family-friendly event will offer something for everyone, with a jam-packed program filled with environmentally friendly activities, workshops and demonstrations.

Central Coast Council Director of Infrastructure Boris Bolgoff said the festival aimed to stimulate a new way of thinking about waste management and resource recovery, as well as inspire the community on how

to live more sustainably.

“Council is pleased to once again partner with its waste collection contractor Cleanaway to deliver an event that not only brings community members together to learn all about sustainability, but also offers handy tips and tricks on how we can all minimise our carbon footprint and keep the Central Coast as beautiful as ever,” he said.

“This year’s festival will host some very special guests including Triple M and Better Homes and Gardens star Rob Palmer on October 14.

“Rob will share practical advice on how you can restore old or used furniture at home.

“Australian cook, author, radio and TV personality Julie Goodwin will also join the festival on October 15, offering tips on how to cook local and in-season foods, with minimum waste and low impact on the environment.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said residents continued to show how passionate they were about reducing the amount of their household waste that ended up in landfill.

“This terrific event offers the perfect opportunity for locals to learn first-hand from the experts on how to live more sustainably, and what simple steps can be taken at home to reduce our carbon footprint,” he said.

“While Council runs different waste initiatives to help residents reduce the amount of household waste that ends up in landfill, real change can be made at home if we all work together to follow simple steps to reduce our global footprint.

“I encourage all community members to head down to this two-day event which is sure to offer something for the whole family.”

Highlights of the festival will include a dedicated Farmer’s Market on Sunday; a clothing swap to reduce fast fashion; learning about how creepy crawlies can help with waste management; workshops on using beeswax wraps, cultivating worm farms and

roosted or bred at this site,” a spokesperson said at the time.

“Three environmental reports have confirmed this.

“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.”

The draft Action Plan is expected to come before Council for consideration again in coming weeks.

community took advantage of the opportunity to have their voice heard in the brief survey.

“There has been a lot of consultation in the past around projects in the Peninsula,” he said.

“I want to reassure the community that we’re moving forward, and we will deliver this district playspace that the community told us they wanted back in 2020, and again during the Let’s Talk Woy Woy engagement process.

“Between Pelican Park and Lions Park, and the new skatepark at Umina as part of the Peninsula Sport and Recreation project, there’s a lot

to look forward to for local residents in 2024 and beyond.”

It is expected that the Woy Woy Lions Park district playspace upgrade will cost about $340,000 as outlined in the Central Coast Council 2023/24 Operational Plan. Designs and tender process will follow the close of the public consultation and it is anticipated that work will be completed by June 2024.

To participate in the online survey, visit YourVoiceOurCoast before Friday, October 27.

Source: Central Coast Council

Recycled creations from last year’s event furniture refurbishments; getting behind the wheel of a truck and becoming a garbologist; meeting the waste fighting duo The Super Sustainables; and making some noise with the fun recycled

instruments of Junkyard Beats. The festival will be held from 9am to 2pm on October 14 and 15 at the Ourimbah campus in Chittaway Rd.

Source: Central Coast Council

Terry Collins

Dog owners say an on-leash area could create more problems at The Haven

Woy Woy Lions Park is set for a revamp

Design work on a major upgrade of Kibble Park in the heart of the Gosford CBD is set to begin, after Central Coast Council adopted the Kibble Park Place Plan and Kibble Park Concept Plan at its meeting on September 26.

The Kibble Park Place Plan and Concept Plan design project commenced in 2020, with extensive internal and external consultation, but was paused due to Council’s financial crisis, as delivery of the Plan was dependent on funding.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the plans were re-exhibited this year, and now the community consultation report has been finalised.

“This project is a very important one for the Gosford CBD, as it looks at how Kibble Park can be improved for community use, including more green space,” she said.

“Also, with the construction of the new Gosford Regional Library in Donnison St now

Kibble Park redesign set to begin

having commenced, the redesign of Kibble Park will complement that new development.”

Smith said Kibble Park was the civic heart of the Gosford CBD, with the park widely utilised by local residents for leisure and play, businesses and workers on their lunch breaks and community groups and businesses running events and activations.

She said the park was in need of an upgrade due to dated infrastructure, to improve safety and functionality for activities and to improve connections to the new regional library development and Imperial Centre.

The Plan takes into consideration the feedback received during the Safer Cities Her Way project, where participants highlighted feeling unsafe in Kibble Park.

“Given the pause in the project, we revisited the plans to reflect what is achievable –then asked the community for feedback before finalising,” Smith said.

The Consultation Report

includes feedback on a key design recommendation – the removal of the existing Gosford library.

The community feedback on the removal of the library was split evenly between those in favour (29 per cent) and those opposed (29 per cent, with most responses neutral (42 per cent).

Smith said under the new Plan design, the current library would be replaced with an extended, dedicated turf events space with appropriate services and facilities to host a range of events.

It will also include a dedicated stage space with shelter, storage and services with appropriate vehicular access.

“A flexible amphitheatre will also be created, with a water cascade to provide visual appeal, wide seating will provide a raised view of the park and space to view concerts and events, and space will be provided for pop up events and stalls along the northern edge,” she said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said he was pleased to see the planning moving ahead.

“With the commencement

now of the new regional library, across the road from Kibble Park, which will provide an extraordinary facility for Gosford and the wider Central Coast community, we can now really envisage how a redesigned Kibble Park can look,” he said.

“The removal of the existing library will increase the green space on this site significantly, which, in light of the extensive accommodation development going on in Gosford CBD, will provide a wonderful open space for residents living in the vicinity.”

Newly elected member of Council’s Heritage Committee Gary Jackson addressed the public forum prior to the meeting requesting deferral of the Plan until the committee had a better chance to look at the heritage values of the current library which is to be demolished when the new regional library across the road is opened in 2025.

Jackson said he believed the library was of heritage significance and should be retained.

“We would like the chance to conduct a full review of its significance,” he told the forum.

He said there were mixed views but the committee would like to perhaps make suggestions for alternative uses for the building such as a tourist information centre, youth centre, or an internet hub.

For more information visityourvoiceourcoast.com/ kibblepark

Source: Central Coast Council

Camp Breakaway making a comeback after COVID

Programs at Camp Breakaway are resuming as normal after being hit hard by COID

After being hit hard by the effects of COVID, Camp Breakaway at San Remo is making a comeback with camp programs recommencing and social nights held once a month.

The camp, originally built by Rotarians and officially opened in 1982, specialises in providing respite care and programs for adults and children living with disabilities and suffered financially during COVID when no camps could be held.

“Even after COVID, it took some time to resume programs because people with disabilities were not comfortable leaving their homes,” Camp Breakaway chairperson Jenny Taaffe said.

“With the recommencement of camp programs and site hire

An afternoon with Tracey Howie

Tracey Howie Central Coast local and custodian Tracey Howie will provide some insights into the region’s traditional custodians and the land we live on at a special event on October 8.

Following the premiere of her captivating film, An Afternoon with Tracey Howie, she will outline the heroic journeys that her ancestor Bungaree took

with Matthew Flinders a few decades after the arrival of the first British ships.

A direct descendent of warrior Bungaree, Howie is the only civilian to have the map of Flinders and Bungaree’s circumnavigation of the continent.

Bungaree was born in the Broken Bay area and was a skilled mariner.

Howie will speak of bloodlines, her lineage, and Care for Country.

She will led a discussion on custodianship and Aboriginal lore. All questions will be welcomed.

The event will be particularly relevant, with voters set to go to the polls on October 14 for the Voice referendum.

It will be held at 2pm on

Sunday, October 8, in the Green Point Community Centre auditorium at 96 Koolang Rd.

Cost will be $5 per person at the door to go towards costs of room hire and film editing (correct change would be appreciated).

services this year, and the contribution of auxiliary and other grant fundraising activities, Breakaway is gradually recovering from its financial challenges.”

As a registered not-for-profit charitable organisation, Camp Breakaway relies on getting an income from programs and hiring the venue out for private functions including weddings.

As a registered NDIS service provider, the camp also provides emergency respite care and hires out the site and facilities to other respite care providers to raise additional funds for camp programs.

“Our monthly programs and recent quality program surveys resulted in a 90 per cent satisfaction rating by those who attended,” Taaffe said.

“We have also introduced social inclusion dances on a monthly basis for people living with a disability with many

coming with their carers and having a ball.”

She said the organisation was always on the lookout for more volunteers.

“We would welcome more volunteers to help with the programs and the Auxiliary fundraising.

“It’s a great way to help put something back into the community and have fun, meeting like-minded people where you support the carers and enjoy yourself as well.”

Taaffe site hire bookings were positively recovering and just recently a cultural wedding at the 24ha site was attended by nearly a hundred guests over one weekend.

For more information about Camp Breakaway and for those interested in volunteering contact Jenny Taaffe on 0407 400 507.

Source: Friends of Local Traditional Custodians of the NSW Central Coast Tracey Howie

CCN Programs at Camp Breakaway are resuming as normal after being hit hard by COVID

Planning for a redesign of Kibble Park has recommenced

Fresh from attending the recent Family History State Conference, author Danielle Lautrec will be the guest speaker at a Central Coast Family History Society (CCFHS) seminar on October 7.

“I love genealogy, history, research and problem solving (and) I would love to help you,” Lautrec said.

The morning will focus on research techniques, helping

Expert speaker on family history

you to think about the past, researching, sources and information. Practical problem solving strategies will be discussed in the afternoon.

“Family history needs to be accurate, otherwise the people you find will not be your family,” a CCFHS spokesperson said.

“Danielle has been helping so many find their family for years with SAG (Society of Australian Genealogy Sydney) as the Education Officer.

Danielle Lautrec

“Now she is here to help us – most practically too.”

Lautrec’s book, The Good

Genealogist: How to Improve the Quality of Your Family History is a practical guide for everyone researching family history.

It focuses on the importance of taking a systematic approach and introduces the concept of the research process cycle.

A short guide on how to use the book is supported by an index leading you to (specific) problem areas.

The seminar will be held from

10.30am-2.30pm on October 7 in the Lions Community Hall, East Gosford.

Numbers are limited for this day so contact Central Coast Family History Society so registrations are invited on 4324 5164 Tuesday-Friday.

Copies of Lautrec’s book will be available at the seminar.

Learn about CareFlight at free family day

Residents will have the chance to gain an insight into how CareFlight keeps the community safe at a special community event at Halekulani Bowling Club on Sunday, October 8.

The service operates with the support of Mounties Group. On October 8, emergency rescue service, the Mounties Care CareFlight helicopter will land on the club grounds at 11am with residents invited to inspect the state-of-the-art helicopter and meet the CareFlight team behind the controls.

The Mounties Care CareFlight helicopter is an Airbus H145 rapid response helicopter committed to saving lives across Greater Sydney, the

Central Coast and Blue Mountains.

It is one of the most advanced of its kind.

Not only can it be airborne and en-route to an incident in three minutes, it can also land in spaces as small as a tennis court.

“Our continuing partnership with CareFlight strengthens the Mounties Group ethos of improving the lives of our members and our community and this community event aims to showcase the wonderful work the CareFlight team does with locals,” Mounties Group President John Dean said.

“As one of the fastest services of its kind in the world, the

helicopter delivers a specialist doctor, highly skilled intensive care paramedic and hospitallevel equipment as close as possible to a patient anywhere in the Greater Sydney area within 15-20 minutes of a 000 call.”

The Mounties Care CareFlight Helicopter responds to accidents daily, varying from sporting accidents to motor vehicle collisions and house falls.

There will be lots of fun-filled activities for the entire family at the special event.

These will include live entertainment, face painting and an arts and craft section where kids can create a wooden CareFlight helicopter.

CareFlight CEO Mick Frewen says that the support Mounties Group has provided to CareFlight has been invaluable.

“Our partnership with Mounties Care is a true testament to the organisation’s unwavering commitment to care and health services,” he said.

Backing Yes vote

Newcastle Anglican has issued a statement offering its unequivocal support to a constitutionally enshrined Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

“The referendum offers us the opportunity to bring healing to our nation,” Bishop Peter Stuart said.

“It enables us to reset our relationship with First Nations peoples through deep listening.

“I encourage people to vote Yes”.

To read the full statement on behalf of Newcastle Anglican, visit: newcastleanglican.org.au/ voice

Fantastic Frantastics

The Frantastics have taken out two major prizes at the Norfolk Island Theatre Festival.

“Their continued support over the last year has certainly allowed us to grow our services and save even more lives, and for that we are truly grateful.”

For more information on the event visit halibowling.com.au

Source: Brilliant Logic

The Central Coast group won an adjudicator’s award for Best Ensemble and also the prize for Best Original Script for the melodrama Pirate Paella, written by group director Fran Kendall.

The cast comprised Roberta Boni, Pam Brown, Patricia Nissen and Ann Wilden with Wendy Whiteman, Helen O’Shea, Bev Jones, Douglas Kent and Christine Bryant also contributing.

Source: Central Coast Family History Group

The helicopter will arrive at 11am

Workshop on retaining surf life saving volunteers

Wamberal Surf Life Saving Club will host a not-forprofit workshop on October 12 to discuss volunteer retention in the organisation.

Examining the role of leadership and culture in volunteer retention, the workshop will be facilitated by Louise Cooke, General Manager Culture and Capability for Surf Life Saving NSW.

It will cover: Surf Life Saving NSW’s research into volunteer satisfaction and retention; interpersonal leadership skills to support satisfaction and retention; above and below the line behaviour in organisations;

and tools to support inclusive and respectful environments.

The day will begin at 7.50am and wind-up by 9am.

A grazing breakfast table and tea and coffee will be provided with all ticket proceeds to be donated as a lucky door prize to the winner’s nominated notfor-profit organisation.

To be eligible for the lucky door prize, attendees must be registered and present for the event.

Tickets are available by searching Central Coast at stickytickets.com.au

Bereaved families Choosing Hope

A special walk in support of families who have experienced infant loss will be held on the Central Coast on Sunday, October 15.

Choosing Hope is a walk of honour and remembrance, created as a space where bereaved families and their community can come together in support with others who understand, recognise their experience, support them and honour the lives of the children they never got to know.

The event also raises money for the valuable work of national non-profit organisation Bears Of Hope Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support.

Choosing Hope was created by Trish Thomas eight years ago after the loss of her infant son at John Hunter Hospital when he died from injuries sustained in a car accident.

“I was heartbroken and sad,

but also deeply moved to know statistically I was by no means a minority, even though I felt alone and unable to relate to others,” Thomas said.

“One of four pregnant women

will have a miscarriage and eight babies are stillborn each day in Australia.

“These statistics show that infant loss is a very widely felt and known experience, but

continues to remain not so talked about.

“I wanted to create a space where we could come together with other bereaved families and feel seen, our experience

acknowledged and the loss of our babies honoured.

“Taking the steps they never got to take may also in turn be a step forward in the healing journey too.”

Timed to coincide with the international day of pregnancy and infant loss remembrance, the event was first held on the Central Coast in 2016.

“The event I dreamt of in that hospital room not only became reality but has become so successful and well loved by many in the bereaved community that my Central Coast walk has continued to flourish and is replicated nationwide,” Thomas said.

“This year Bears of Hope will have eight locations where Choosing Hope will happen, with other walks taking place in Sydney, Tamworth, Canberra, Melbourne, Launceston, Brisbane and Perth.”

Fundraising through Choosing

Hope has raised more than $700,000 for the work of Bears of Hope in the past eight years. Money raised will go towards providing much needed resources, teddy bears, care packages in bags, counselling and support services across the country.

“I am expecting at least 500 at our Central Coast event this year, with many, many more to attend nationwide,” Thomas said.

The Choosing Hope walk will begin at 1.30pm on October 15 at the Long Reserve and proceed to Picnic Point at The Entrance.

For more information go to Choosinghope@bearsofhope. org.au

For tickets go to Choosinghope.com.au

Source: Trish Thomas

Anas finds a home and community at Peninsula Villages

Nestled in the heart of Umina Beach, Peninsula Villages is a leading aged care facility which is home to some of the most remarkable people in the community.

One such person is Anas Davis, an 82-year-old woman who has lived a life full of adventure and resilience.

Born deaf in Bourke, NSW, in 1941, Anas grew up on her family’s sheep and cattle farm, Bendemeer.

Despite her hearing impairment, Anas never let anything hold her back, learning to herd sheep on her motorbike, care for baby animals and even change the oil and check the tyres on her family’s motorbikes.

Anas had a close bond with her family, and she especially cherished her time with her sister Gae and nieces and nephew, Catherine, Susan, and Joseph, often taking them on picnics and motorbike rides.

In 1993, Anas’ father passed away and she moved in with her mother in Bourke, devotedly caring for her until she passed away in Bourke Hospital.

After her mother’s passing, Anas moved in with her sister in Sydney before settling into a retirement village in Merrylands.

Her sister Gae and niece Susan became her lifelines, making regular visits and taking her shopping.

But Anas missed her family on the Central Coast, especially her niece, Susan.

So, in June 2023, she made the heartwarming decision to move to Peninsula Villages to be closer to her.

Susan, who is a Leisure and Lifestyle Advocate at Peninsula Villages, was so confident in

the care at the facility that she encouraged her aunt to move in.

“I knew that Peninsula Villages was the right place for my aunt,” she said.

“The staff are amazing, and the facility is beautiful.

“I’m so glad that she’s here.”

Anas is grateful for her niece’s support and for the opportunity to live at Peninsula Villages.

“I’m so happy to be here,” she said.

“The staff are wonderful, and the residents are so friendly.

“I feel like I’m part of a big family.”

Despite facing many challenges in her life, Anas has always remained positive and upbeat.

She is an inspiration to everyone who knows her, and her story is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

Peninsula Villages is more than just an aged care facility; it is a family where residents are cared for with respect and compassion.

Source: Peninsula Villages

Anas Davis has found a loving community at Peninsula Villages

Last year’s Choosing Hope walk

Source: Surf Life Saving Central Coast

The workshop will be held on October 12

Facilitator Louise Cooke

Bateau Bay residents want their stairs back

From page 1

“We think it is readily achievable to rebuild a set of stairs that will easily last 40 years as the recently removed stairs have done.”

She said the group was hoping funding for the stairs would be included in the 2024/25 Open Spaces budget.

Residents were also offended by the lack of community consultation and were told that Council provided notification of the demolition works on its social media page.

“It’s certainly an inadequate response and quite condescending at best,” Townsend said.

She said residents were also mystified by the Council’s

statement that there were other beach access points.

“Our concern is the complete

lack of easy access to our reserve,” she said.

“Why was there no mention

of any attempt by the Council to repair the stairs while a plan of replacement was put in place?”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan described the Council’s decision as “sneaky” and “a huge disappointment”.

“My community has put in a huge effort to repair and rejuvenate the area around Shelly Beach and Bateau Bay,” he said.

“Council’s decision not to consult the community before the steps were removed is very disrespectful.

“Nobody believes Council’s claim that the steps were unsafe; they needed maintenance, not removal.

“I’ll now work with my

community to improve access to the reserve and ensure it is properly maintained.”

A Central Coast Council spokesperson confirmed the stairs were removed in early September.

She said an inspection revealed the timber stairs were unsafe and beyond repair due to vandalism and had been set on fire on two occasions.

“Unfortunately, no other options were available other than removal of the stairs, as they were no longer functional or safe,” she said.

“Council had provided notification of the demolition works on Council’s social media channels and liaised with the neighbouring tourist park and noted the other beach

access locations to the north and the south of the stairs.

“In response to local community concerns about future public access, Council staff will consider the merits of building a new stairway at this location in the future, which will include community consultation.

“This project is not currently listed in Council’s 3-year Delivery Program and so there is currently no funding budgeted to commence design and construction of new stairs.

“Council will however investigate if any government grant funding might be available for this proposed project.”

Could the next woman of the year be a Coastie?

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch reckons the next NSW Woman of the Year could be living right here on the Central Coast.

She is encouraging nominations for the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2024, which celebrate the achievements of incredible women and girls who are improving the lives of people in the state.

“The Central Coast is home to

countless women and girls who are making a positive difference to our community,” Tesch said.

“These talented and hardworking women don’t serve our community for accolades, and yet they deserve recognition from their community as a symbol of our appreciation of their efforts.

“Whether it’s the role models who inspire us, the unsung heroes who lift us up, or the big thinkers building a brighter

future, we all know a woman or girl who we can celebrate for all that they do.”

Nominations are now open in the following award categories: Premier’s NSW Woman of Excellence; NSW Community Hero; NSW Young Woman of the Year; and NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year.

People can nominate a woman or girl whose achievements and contributions should be celebrated and shared.

Self-nominations are also accepted.

Nominations are also open to recognise young girls in the Ones to Watch Showcase, shining a spotlight on 10 rising stars between the ages of seven and 15.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the awards recognised the invaluable contribution to community, industry and society that women in NSW have made through their hard work,

dedication and passion.

“The awards honour our inspirational women with the recognition they truly deserve,” she said.

“We want to continue to empower the next generation of young women to be limitless in delivering positive changes through fortitude in their fields of expertise.

“We can only achieve this by shining a light on the contributions and

achievements of women in our communities.”

The winners will be announced at the NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony on March 7, 2024, as part of NSW Women’s Week 2024. Nominations close at midnight on Sunday, October 8, and can be lodged at nsw.gov. au/women-nsw/awards-andevents/nsw-women-of-yearawards

Source: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Denice Barnes

These stairs leading from the beach to the reserve are now the only way to access the reserve from the bottom

Memorial for Tuggerah Lakes policeman

A bench seat overlooking Soldiers Beach with a memorial plaque for Aaron Dalla Costa will forever be a place for people to sit and remember him in one of his favourite spots.

It also will be acknowledgement for his extensive charity work and contribution to the community, including his service as an officer in the Tuggerah Lakes Police District based at Wyong police station.

Senior Constable Aaron Dalla Costa tragically passed away on August 7, 2022, in an accident on the M1. He was 38 years old.

He had spent family holidays at The Entrance since he was three years old and as a teenager Soldiers Beach at

Norah Head was his favourite beach where he learnt to surf.

By the time he was 23 Dalla Costa had joined the police force where he met his wife and they married in 2016.

They both transferred to Tuggerah Lakes Police District and set up their family home at Hamlyn Terrace after the birth of their first son in 2018; their second son came along in 2020.

Throughout his life Dalla Costa was accomplished in a variety of sports and in high school he started middle distance running and steeplechase, ranking 14th fastest runner in Australian and New Zealand when he was 15 years old.

He played soccer for NSW Police in the New York Police and Fire Games in 2011, played for his church teams and more recently was in the men’s over35s team at Kanwal Warnervale Rovers Football Club.

He also represented the police force over multiple years

in the annual Sydney City to Surf races, holding the record for the most victories in their 150-strong running team.

The central focus of their entry was raising funds for NSW Policy Legacy.

Dalla Costa spent many hours personally fundraising for the organisation and in other activities to support Legacy families.

Over the years he also spent time with his church charities and the Diamond Women charity through his participation in the Blackmores Marathon which is part of the Sydney Running Festival, as well as activities connected to Beyond Blue.

Public reports about woman driver

Police from Brisbane Water Highway Patrol stopped a woman driver at Somersby following calls from the public concerned about her driving with three young children in the car.

The 26-year-old woman was subsequently charged with high-range PCA and driving while disqualified.

At about 3pm on Saturday, September 30, Highway Patrol officers stopped the Kia Carnival being driven by the woman on the M1 at Somersby.

She returned a positive breath test result and was placed under arrest and conveyed to

Gosford Police Station where she returned a prescribed concentration of alcohol reading of 0.290.

Checks on her licence found she was disqualified from driving until 2028.

The woman was charged for Drive whilst Disqualified Second Offence and Drive with High Range PCA Second

Mountain bike fall

Earlier in the week, on the morning of Thursday, September 28, the Toll Rescue Helicopter was called to help emergency services at Kincumba Mountain.

A person, who was injured

during a fall off a mountain bike and went over a ledge, was winched out with a paramedic, loaded on to the helicopter and taken to Royal North Shore Hospital.

82-year-old pedestrian killed

A man has been charged with dangerous driving and highrange drink driving after an 82-year-old pedestrian was struck by a car and killed near Warnervale on Monday night, October 2.

Just after 7.30pm officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District were called to Sparks Rd at Halloran, following reports a man had been struck by a car.

Sue Murray

Offence and will face those charges in Gosford Local Court. For the safety of the public and the children her keys were seized and retained until a suitable person attended to collect them.

The 82-year-old pedestrian was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.

A crime scene was established and examined by specialist officers from the Crash Investigation Unit.

The driver, a 49-year-old man from Port Macquarie, underwent a roadside breath test, which

allegedly returned a positive result.

He was arrested and underwent a breath analysis test that returned an alleged reading of 0.173.

The driver was then taken to Wyong Hospital for mandatory testing, which he allegedly refused.

He was taken to Wyong Police Station and charged with aggravated dangerous driving occasion death – PCA; dangerous driving occasioning death-drive under influence; negligent driving (occasioning death); drive with high range PCA; refuse or fail to provide urine sample; and possess prohibited drug.

The driver was refused bail to appear in Wyong Local Court.

Senior Constable Aaron Dalla Costa

Yes signs defaced by No campaigners

Perhaps now that mining magnate billionaire, Clive Palmer, has pledged $2M to the No campaign, they’ll be able to afford their own coreflutes, rather than spray painting NO over

FORUM

VOTE YES ones.

Ironically, I took this photo in Hardys Bay on my return from three weeks in New Zealand,

Huge fine uncalled for

where Maori/Pakeha relationships put to shame indigenous/white relationships here in Australia.

Text message, Oct 3 Karen Adler, Wagstaffe

No government support for cancer patients

I would like to make the public aware of the absolute lack of support there is for cancer patients from the government.

I am a 53-year-old woman who was recently diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer.

My first disappointment with the lack of support was when I applied for the disability support pension (DSP). One of the conditions that needs to be met in order to be eligible for the DSP is that the applicant has a life expectancy

of less than 24 months.

Apart from the fact that there is no other diagnosis that has such a limited life expectancy, this is extremely prejudicial to a person’s mental health.

Another issue is that we are not entitled to any assistance at all from NDIS.

I was planning to ask for assistance with home help.

I was told by the NDIS agent at the Gosford Service Centre

that my condition was medical not a disability.

The agent didn’t even bother to ask what type of cancer I had or what kind of assistance I needed.

I would have explained to him that I have been informed by my oncologist that I will have cancer for the rest of my life and will need to have chemotherapy for the rest of my life.

I think this is disgraceful way to treat anybody.

I read with interest the story Disability driver urges council to show common sense (CCN 409) by Terry Collins.

I too have been fined $283 by Central Coast Council.

I was shocked to receive my fine in the post for parking not on a main road but in a no parking driveway at Shelly Beach.

My reason for parking there

was because there were only two disabled spots, already filled, and I needed to get my husband into his wheelchair in a safe place.

I was only there for about eight minutes.

I put my husband at one of the tables and immediately moved my car to a parking spot.

Shelly Beach is one of a few

places I can take my husband to be able to get him out in the sun and fresh air.

I did try to challenge the fine but no consideration was given.

We are both on a pension and we struggle with cost of living as it is without this huge fine. We do have a disability notice displayed on our car.

Hypocrisy of a Voice for one race only

The Voice has always been touted as necessary to eliminate racial inequality affecting the Torres Strait Island and Aboriginal people.

“Racial inequality ” became a popular cliche for the activists. Now these activists, and especially the Government, mention “racial inequality” far less frequently and not at all in the Government’s Yes case in the referendum booklet.

Perhaps that is because to do so would highlight the hypocrisy of a Voice for one race only.

In the referendum booklet the very first sentence of the Yes case says “Vote YES for a better future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and all Australians.”

How will that benefit all Australians if the Voice is for one race only?

FORUM

want those same things for ALL Australians.

The No case has been criticised by some people for being negative.

That is how debates work.

The Yes case present all the positive arguments and the No case present all the negative arguments.

To put this in context I quote Linda Telisman (CCN 404), who explains in response to a similar comment: “The reason the No Pamphlet is filled with negativity is because everything about the Voice has a negative consequence for our nation”.

lives, so Governments make better decisions”.

Albanese has already made some (better? ) decisions on at least three occasions.

Senator Jacinta Price took an Aboriginal teenage girl to Parliament House to get somebody to listen to the horror story of life in her NT community; nobody listened.

A delegation of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people from all over Australia went to Parliament House to ask Albanese to listen to them.

Albanese and his MPs disappeared somewhere in Parliament House to avoid listening to them.

Email, Oct 3 Mary

Dimech, Gosford

The Yes case states ” Voting YES is about: …Making practical progress in indigenous health, education, employment and housing…”.

If the Government already knows what (is needed), why didn’t they start that practical progress 15 months ago when they got into Government?

Incidentally, all Australians

I can only assume the Yes case had trouble filling the space allocated for their case. However, rather than leaving blank spaces they inserted comments from retired sports people.

Those comments essentially said nothing more pithy than they supported the Voice.

The Yes case also states” “Voting YES is about: Listening to advice from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about matters that affect their

After relentless pressure Albanese was forced to go to Alice Springs due to extreme social unrest in that town. He spent a few hours there before flying back to watch the tennis for three days.

During his visit he met with, spoke to and listened to not one Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal person other than the appropriate officials and elitist activists in meetings behind closed doors.

Email, Aug 29 John King, San Remo

A Yes sign defaced on private property at Hardys Bay

Photo: Karen Adler

Email, Sep 29 Lyn Barnett, Bateau Bay

Possum Magic comes to The Art House

Possum Magic, by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas, is arguably the most beloved Australian children’s book of all time.

With well over five million copies sold nationwide, the iconic tale is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and The Art House is set to host the award-winning stage adaption

created by Monkey Baa Theatre Company in October.

The Art House stage will be transformed into scenes straight out of the book and JulieVivas’ famous illustrations.

Using a clever combination of live action, stage magic, an original soundscape, elements of puppetry and projected animation, Monkey Baa’s

creative team has translated the whimsical world of the book into a live experience for all to enjoy.

Taking place in the Australian bush, Possum Magic tells the story of Grandma Poss and Hush.

Grandma loves making magic. She makes wombats blue and kookaburras pink.

She makes dingoes smile and emus shrink.

But one day, when danger arrives in the form of a snake, Grandma Poss uses her most magical spell to make Hush invisible.

Hush longs to see herself again, but there is just one problem.

Grandma Poss can’t find the

right spell. Following grandmother and granddaughter as they search far and wide for the perfect morsel of human food to turn Hush visible again.

The story explores not only famous Australian landscapes but the importance of identity, self-acceptance and the power of love and family.

The show is perfect for children aged 3-8.

Possum Magic will be at The Art House at 6pm on Monday, October 16 and 10am and 12.30pm (school performance) on Tuesday, October 17. Book at www.thearthousewyong. com.au or call 4335 1485.

Source: The Art House

Guitar prodigy Nathan Cavaleri headed to Central Coast

As part of a huge national regional tour, guitar prodigy Nathan Cavaleri is headed to the Central Coast to perform at the Ocean View Beach Club at Wamberal on October 7.

Having just released his new album Miracles – a sprawling 12 song LP that jumps genres from Indi-blues to Beatle-

esque ballads – Cavaleri is showcasing his incredible talent as part of his massive tour.

Celebrating the release of the album, Cavaleri will perform 26 shows, reaching all corners of the country.

Cavaleri, long regarded as an Australian guitar prodigy who signed to Michael Jackson’s

label, has acted in films alongside Jessica Alba, has appeared on American talk shows, guested on Baywatch as himself and has been featured on the ABC’s Australian Story.

Having beaten leukemia as a child, Cavaleri went on to great acclaim only to suffer severe stage anxiety, putting his whole career in hiatus.

In 2020, he came back and has now released his solo album Miracles.

The focus track Miracles is a blistering rock-n-roll infused single which exemplifies his incredible guitar talent and songwriting capabilities.

Source: CCN Nathan Cavaleri is hitting the road

Rocks legends to help Jo and Mercy get new wheels

Australian rock legends the Hoodoo Gurus have thrown their support behind a fundraiser aimed at getting a Bateau Bay mum and her disabled daughter a new car.

The extraordinary story of Joanne McSweeny and her daughter Mercy captured the hearts of many Central Coast residents after McSweeny was severely injured when she stopped to help a driver in a car accident.

After another car became involved in the accident – over 30 years ago – her life changed

forever and she was left a paraplegic, never to walk again.

Despite facing tremendous challenges, McSweeny has

since achieved many things including a university degree and raising three children as a single parent, the youngest being Mercy – who was born

with Koolen De Vries syndrome, cerebral palsy and a moderate intellectual disability.

Because of her physical limitations and impaired cognitive function, Mercy requires assistance with all daily activities such as personal care, dressing and hygiene, food preparation, 24-hour supervision and support to access transport, shopping and social and community engagement.

A very happy and social person, Mercy loves nothing more than interacting with people and keeping active on her scooter, walking, swimming,

bush walking and helping her mum with the shopping.

Unfortunately, their current predicament threatens their ability to live fulfilling lives and their ability to access essential services.

McSweeny’s car of 20 years has broken down and is inoperable.

As a paraplegic with a dependent child with a disability, she desperately needs a vehicle for independence, to attend medical appointments, programs and social outings with family and friends.

Friends have rallied,

organising a fundraiser to help her buy a new car and cover all the associated costs.

The event, Jo and Mercy’s New Wheels, will feature Australian rock legends the Hoodoo Gurus and will be held at The Entrance Leagues Club supported by Lions Club International.

It will be held on October 8 and doors open at 6pm with the Hoodoo Gurus taking the stage at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available at the venue or online at www. stickytickets.com.au/RM250

Source: CCN

Possum Magic will be at The Art House in October

Hoodoo Gurus will be performing at The Entrance Leagues Club

October program for Weekday Walkers

arriving at St Leonards at 9.23am and then the bus from St Leonards Stand A. Walkers will return to the city via ferry after the walk to catch the train home.

The month’s program will round-off on October 31 with the 9km medium/hard Mount Wondabyne Walk.

Meet at 9.30am at the start of the Tunnel Trail on Woy Woy Rd, then take the Trig Trail up to summit of Mount Wondabyne which is the highest point in Brisbane Water National Park.

It is sometimes necessary to change the program at short notice, so it is wise to check details beforehand with the walks co-ordinator David via email – centralcoastweekday walkers@gmail.com

Source: Weekday Walkers

An ASIO spy’s life revealed at Wagstaffe Hall

The secret life and times of one of Australia’s most enigmatic spies, Mercia Masson, will be discussed at Wagstaffe Hall on Sunday afternoon, October 8.

The event will celebrate the newly published book My Mother the Spy, co-authored by Masson’s daughter Cindy Dobbin and Freda Marnie Nicholls.

As you drive along Beach Drive toward Killcare Beach, you will be forgiven for overlooking the inconspicuous Masson Lane nestled to your left.

Yet within this narrow lane lies a house that is part of a captivating historical narrative—the life of Mercia Masson, a remarkable individual who straddled the worlds of journalism and covert espionage as an operative for the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).

Masson was handpicked in

1949 by the then newly formed ASIO to infiltrate the heart of the Australian Communist Party and unearth potential espionage networks.

Astonishingly, her dual existence remained shrouded even from her own daughter, Cindy Dobbin, until after Masson’s death in 1975.

The new book, My Mother, The Spy: The Daring and Tragic Double Life of ASIO Agent Mercia Masson, launched by Allen & Unwin in August, has earned acclaim from notable reviewers, including in The Australian and Sydney Morning Herald (Non-Fiction Pick of the Week).

It is an enigmatic chronicle of Mercia Masson, a tale that intertwines espionage, secrecy and a daughter’s resolute quest for truth.

Cindy Dobbin has spent years deciphering her mother’s labyrinthine life – a quest that eluded her for many years and is still opaque in certain aspects.

The Bouddi Society will host the extraordinary event at 2pm on Sunday, October 8, at Wagstaffe Hall.

It will feature Dobbin and coauthor Freda Marnie Nicholls, engaging in dialogue about the life of the enigmatic spy.

Facilitating the conversation will be David Abrahams, Managing Editor of Coast Community News.

The exchange will cast light on pivotal junctures in Mercia Masson’s journey, encompassing her outing as an ASIO agent during the 1955 Royal Commission on Espionage in the aftermath of the Petrov defection.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to secure signed copies of My Mother the Spy.

Tickets are available at Wagstaffe General Store or go to Eventbrite.com.au and search for My Mother the Spy.

Annual book fair at Budgewoi

There will be thousands of pre-loved books on offer at the annual Book Fair and Fete to be held at Halekulani Hall on Saturday, October 7.

The fair is the largest annual fundraiser for the 100 per cent volunteer-run Halekulani Community Library.

Books on offer will include novels from every genre as well as books on Australiana, biographies, children’s books, fantasy, general fiction, mystery, romance, sci-fi, sport, true crime, war chronicles and

There will also be reference books on cars, cooking, crafts, gardening, wellbeing and much

This year, in addition to the books on sale, there will be locally homemade cakes, potted plants and cuttings for sale and free live music at the

Also on offer will be CDs, DVDs and puzzles along with homemade crafts and bric-abrac.

New members can also sign up to the community library on the day.

The Book Fair and Fete will be held from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, October 7, at

Halekulani Community Hall in Noela Pl, Budgewoi. For more details call 0413 166 173.

Source: Halekulani Community Library

Some of the walkers on Elephant Rock

Source: Peter Park, The Bouddi Society

Mercia Masson at the cottage named Catherine in Killcare in the1940s.

Photo: Cindy Dobbin

Volunteer Kaye Leighton sorting through some books ahead of the fair

Office Administration & Crematorium Chapel - 249 Pacific Hwy, Ourimbah

Fabulous array of shows coming to Laycock Street Theatre

Laycock Street Theatre has a full and fabulous array of musical and comedy shows coming up that are sure to please all tastes and ages.

On October 11 at 11am, the theatre hosts The Dolly Show – Morning Melodies, a show that brilliantly captures the voice and verve of the little lady from Tennessee.

Kelly O’Brien transforms into an uncanny Dolly Parton and accompanied by her fantastic band, performs Dolly’s greatest hits including 9 to 5, Joelene and Islands in the Stream.

Fresh from a UK tour, this show is fantastic fun and popular with Dolly devotees and debutantes alike.

Broadway to Ballet is a break away from the Central Dance Company’s usual repertoire of a full ballet from the classics, opening with a toe-tapping Broadway trip down memory lane through some memorable musicals under the expert guidance of Darren Disney.

The journey from Broadway to Ballet sees some stunning and iconic pas de deux from two leading guest professionals,

Janae Kerr and Alex Cox, along with the CDC dancers who bring a Gershwin wonderland of dance to the stage.

Two performances will be held on October 7 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Based on the 2005 film of the same name and inspired by a true story, Kinky Boots tells the tale of Charlie Price, a young man who faces the unenviable task of trying to reverse the fortunes of his family’s flailing shoe factory.

Gosford Musical Society brings Kinky Boots to life with a show featuring an energetic pop score by Cyndi Lauper, fierce choreography and a tale of acceptance.

This musical is one for all ages with performances on October 20, 21, 27, 28, 29 and November 2, 3 and 4.

For one night only on November 11 at 7pm, the Lakes Festival Comedy gala will take to the stage in a celebration of non-stop comedy with an amazing lineup of Australia’s funniest stars, homegrown legends and nextbig-things in comedy.

Presented by Newcastle

Comedy Festival, the line-up includes Cameron James, Chris Ryan, Daniel Muggleton and Tom Cashman.

The content is suitable for ages 15 and over.

The 90-minute performance will be held in the Don Craig Room.

Some of the biggest names in Australian satire are once again joining forces for their annual assault on politics, current events and the absurdity of modern life in the War on 2023.

Join Mark Humphries, Charles Firth, James Schloeffel and musical comedy genius Gabbi Bolt as they dissect the best and worst bits of 2023 live on stage.

Featuring a non-stop barrage of one-liners, satirical sketches, musical numbers and the best headlines from The Chaser and The Shovel, the War on 2023 has become one of the mustsee shows of the year.

For more information on any of the shows visit laycockstreettheatre@ centralcoast.nsw.au

Source: Laycock Street Theatre

DAVISTOWN PUTT PUTT REGATTA AND WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL

HERITAGE FERRY & WORKBOAT CHALLENGE

Saturday 14th October 2023

Come and cheer on your vessel of choice as they challenge for position on Brisbane Water. Starting and finishing at Gosford Sailing Club with an anticipated start time of 12 noon. Limited spectator tickets will be available to accompany the fleet.

Ticket costs and details are available on our website.

DAVISTOWN PUTT PUTT REGATTA & WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL

Sunday 15th October 2023

This is our foundation event, and we invite you to celebrate the boating legacy of the Davistown area.

• 30-50 Wooden boats and Putt Putts

• The Putt Putt Challenge and Grand Parade

• Amusement rides

• Market stalls

• Premium food and much more

REGATTA CHARITY DINNER

Friday 20th October 2023

At the Davistown RSL starting from 6:30pm. Tickets are $60 per head and are on sale at the Davistown RSL. The evening will provide a 2-course meal + tea/coffee/cake and entertainment. There will also be raffles, auctions (both live and silent) and Lucky Draws.

Details regarding any of the events can be found at www.davistownputtputt.com All funds raised will be donated to the Kids with Cancer Foundation Australia.

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Kelly O’Brien stars as Dolly in the Dolly Show

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Coastal Twist a raging success

Despite temperatures soaring to 14 degrees above average on Sunday, October 1, for its signature Fair Day, the 2023 Coastal Twist LGBTIQA+ Arts & Culture Festival was a huge success with 15 events over seven days and nights.

The festival launched on Tuesday, September 26, with 70 per cent of ticketed events over the following week across Gosford, Ettalong, Woy Woy and Umina sold out.

Now in its third year, Coastal Twist is already enshrined as a unique and vibrant beachside experience that’s not to be missed.

It was selected by the State Government last year as one of a handful of festivals that have demonstrated early success, attracted good audience numbers and demonstrated exemplary local engagement and strong original programming.

With the aim of bringing locals together and encouraging visitors to the region, the festival this year saw attendees from more than 200 postcodes, a result Festival Director Glitta Supernova said was “mind boggling”.

“Fair Day was the only event with numbers slightly down due to Sunday’s extreme heat but still saw a phenomenal

6,500 + visitors braving the extreme fire danger, winds and sand storm to support a magical, dusty day of LGBTIQ celebration,” she said. From kiddie area drag story time and circus and sensory play to performances by mainstream musical artists Kira Puru and Cry Club, Fair Day had something for everyone. Multiple zones included a YAAS Central Coast Youth space, a food court, a bar and retail area and an additional community space.

Audiences took the opportunity to jump into the ocean to cool down and come back to dance, eat and enjoy the entertainment and retail.

Police reported no festivalrelated incidents but medics attended to multiple heatrelated events at Fair Day. The annual end-of-festival recovery and cool down party took place after Fair Day at the Ocean Beach Surf Club as the sun went down and the air cooled over Umina Beach. More than 90 per cent of attendees surveyed reported they would recommend the festival to friends and family, while up to 30 per cent of visitors surveyed reported they had come to the Coast for a one-night stay or more during the festival.

Terry Collins

Mavis Bramston doco at Avoca Beach

Local independent filmmaker Bob Fitzgerald and director Stephan Wellink will present a special screening of their award winning documentary Pushing The Boundaries: The Mavis Bramston Show at Avoca Beach Theatre on Sunday, October 22, at 3.30pm.

Immediately following the screening, TV historian Andrew Mercado will moderate a Q&A with the two men and special guests.

The Mavis Bramston Show (1964-1968) was a sensation from the very first episode, which aired on November 11, 1964.

Controversies abounded

especially in the first two years of the show when it was at its satirical best.

The bastions of virtue such as the Catholic Church, the RSL, royalty and politicians were targets of satirical sketches as every week,the show held up a mirror to Australians who, for the first time, saw who they were and what Australia stood for.

Nothing was sacred. Mavis Bramston was the mother of all Australian television comedy, and the standard by which it is judged, even today.

Further details and tickets for the event are available at avocabeachtheatre.com.au

Source: Bob Fitzgerald

WHEN:

Sunday 8 October, 2pm (film, conversation & questions)

Green Point Community Centre AUDITORIUM (96 Koolang Rd, Green Point)

Tracey Howie will speak of blood lines, her lineage from Warrior Bungaree, and Care for Country.

Bungaree mapped the continent with Matthew Flinders whilst warning tribes about the arriving British.

Enjoy our film screening and a 1 hour conversation with Tracey where she shares her knowledge as Custodian of the lands that form the ‘Central Coast’. There will be time for questions you may have about Custodianship, genealogy and on the upcoming Referendum too.

All questions welcomed.

COST:

$5 per person at the door

WHERE: (correct change appreciated)

Save Kariong Sacred Lands

Savekariongsacredlands.com

Gordon Chater, Carol Raye and Barry Creyton in the Mavis Bramston Show

Hollywould Star at Fair Day Photo: Syl Marie Photography

How can I help you?

Comedy hypnotist set to dazzle

Direct from the UK, international comedy hypnotist Peter Powers is back in Australia – and he’s headed for The Art House on Saturday, October 14.

Powers’ live stage show draws crowds much larger than any other hypnotist in every one of the countries he performs.

He featured in his own TV series, Mesmerised, on Channel 7 in 2015 and has been a regular guest on the Channel 9 Footy Show, where he will continue to appear this year.

Referred to as “a comedy

genius”, “a hypnotist without equal” and “the best in the business”, Powers delights in the antics of his hapless volunteers almost as much as his audiences do.

“Australia is my favourite place to perform,” he said.

“The people here are mad, outrageous and push themselves to the edge … thus providing great entertainment.”

While his volunteers live out their wildest fantasies or experience their worst fears, the audience is thoroughly entertained.

Powers is the writer, producer and star of seven successful TV

series and a number of TV specials which have been aired on more than 30 networks worldwide.

His ability to induce bellyaching laughter and hold his audience spellbound is the signature of his continued boxoffice success.

Peter Powers will perform at The Art House, Wyong, on October 14.

Details and bookings on the Art House website.

Davistown Putt Putt Regatta returns

The Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival will take place over the weekend October 14 and 15.

Celebrating the Central Coast’s culture, heritage and local character, the regatta will return bigger and better than ever with multiple events.

Many putt putt boats are still in use on Brisbane Water, with the Davistown area home to more than 30 classics, which can be seen on their moorings.

Heritage ferries and putt putts from Sydney and across NSW will travel to the Central Coast to take part in the festival.

Saturday will feature the Kids with Cancer Heritage Ferry and Workboat Challenge, where ferries, putt putts and other heritage workboats will make their way from Gosford Sailing Club down past Koolewong,

along the Woy Woy Channel and return via Paddy’s Channel while raising money for Kids with Cancer Foundation.

Boats can be viewed at Gosford Sailing Club at 11.30am, with the Challenge beginning at noon.

At about 1:30pm the boats will return, racing to the finish line of the Challenge.

Heritage ferries will remain on display at the sailing club until about 3pm.

Sunday will see the main event – the Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival.

Held on the Davistown waterfront, it will be a family friendly, fun day celebrating the boating legacy of the Davistown area.

Entry to the festival is by gold coin donation or card-tap, with all donations going directly to

the Kids with Cancer Foundation.

Vintage cars will be on show at the festival

Attendees at the waterfront festival area can watch a huge number of wooden boats, putt

putts and heritage ferries on the water, as well as enjoy free main-stage entertainment, kids amusement rides, vintage machinery and motor vehicle displays, along with more than 40 market stalls, a premium

food area, marine related stalls and displays, community service related stalls, and more.

The fun continues from 9am to 4pm at the Davistown waterfront.

Voice of Ireland heads for The Art House

Tommy Fleming is back in Australia to perform at The Art House Wyong on October 19, following soldout shows across Ireland and the UK over the past four years.

Often described as the “voice of Ireland”, Fleming is one of that country’s top entertainers with more than 6.5 million Youtube hits and more than 3.5million album sales worldwide.

Singing traditional Irish songs mixed with contemporary classics from Danny Boy and Raglan Road to You Raise Me Up, he has toured extensively throughout the UK, The Netherlands, China, the USA and Australia, which he refers to as his “second home”.

The 2023 Australian tour will be his sixth tour Down Under and coincides with the release of All These Years, a new album

reflecting the highlights of his 30-year career.

With a unique powerful voice, Fleming’s repertoire covers

everything from traditional Irish ballads to musical theatre.

Fleming lost both his parents on the same day in 2012 and

his song Be All You Can examines loss from the perspective of the person who has passed, looking back telling their loved ones that all will be well and to be the best they can be in life.

Roll Back The Clouds is the story of people trying to succeed at their profession, notably in the entertainment industry.

Just when Fleming was starting out in his career he had a serious car accident which put his career on hold for years while he recovered and started over again.

He is the only artist to perform in the world-famous Basilica in Knock, Ireland, where he recorded his first Voice of Hope album which

The festivities will wrap up on Friday, October 20, with the Putt Putt Charity Dinner – set to be a fantastic night of dining, entertainment and fundraising for Kids with Cancer Foundation.

It will take place at 6pm the Davistown RSL, with a twocourse meal plus tea/coffee and cake and entertainment by magician Marcus Luc and music by Budi Bone.

There will be raffles, auctions, silent auctions, other great giveaways and some surprise guest speakers.

Tickets are available from the Davistown RSL.

See the Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival Facebook page for updates on all the events.

Source

Davistown Putt Putt Regatta

went on to sell 1.5 million copies.

He has worked in Sudan and Rwanda, Africa, as an AID worker and on a recent trip to Rwanda he recorded a Christmas single with Rwandan teenagers.

Fleming has toured with Elaine Paige, Kenny Rogers, Phil Coulter and De Dannan and recorded duets with Vince Gill, Lucy Silvis and Christy Hennessy.

He often uses a unique instrument to provide a distinct Irish sound.

He will perform at The Art House on Thursday, October 19.

Tickets are available through the theatre website.

Terry Collins

Tommy Fleming

Spectacular heritage ferries and putt putts in action at the festival

Source: Lionel Midford Publicity

Peter Powers is headed for The Art House

Business & Property

New supported independent living homes at Gorokan

The new state-of-the-art Casa Capace residences in Gorokan opened on September 28, providing Supported Independent Living (SIL) for six individuals.

Designed by Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) provider Casa Capace, the development will enable leading disability services provider Coastlink, to provide SIL in two high-physicalsupport, three-bedroom villas. Coastlink Chair John Mouland said the development set the

standard in specialist disability accommodation anywhere in Australia and its official opening was an exciting milestone for the Central Coast.

“These landmark residences revolutionise how we think about permanent disability accommodation,” he said.

“As the latest addition to thegrowing disability accommodation options for Coastlink clients, these residences really set the bar for attractive, contemporary living for people of all abilities.”

Casa Capace CEO Michael

Fuller said the company was excited to create beautiful homes and living experiences for Australians with disabilities.

Coastlink Acting CEO Sharon Mansfield has been involved with the landmark project since its inception.

“Each villa is equipped with advanced assistive technology systems to ensure all residents can live as independently as possible, within a beautiful and welcoming environment that they can be proud to call home,” she said.

Kerry Laing, mother of resident

Michael Laing, says that as a parent, knowing her son is living in a residence such as Casa Capace gives her peace of mind now and into the future.

“Knowing Mike is living here (in Casa Capace) gives me peace of mind that if anything were to happen to me, he would be well looked after and cared for, and would not become the sole responsibility for my daughter,” she said.

“Most of us get to choose where we want to live and now I feel like Mike truly has another home that we would have

chosen for him, rather than living somewhere just because that is what is available to him.

“I particularly like the more intimate setting of only three residents per villa, so that carers can really get to know Mike and develop a great relationship with him.

“It’s such a lovely little home, with everything new and sparkling; anyone would be happy to live here.”

The launch event was attended by Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, Casa Capace and Coastlink

Have your say on region’s future

Central Coast Council is inviting feedback to help further inform the next iteration of the Central Coast Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS).

Director Environment and Planning Alice Howe said Council wanted to hear from all community members about their lived experiences, values, perceptions and desires for the Central Coast region.

“The current CSP was adopted in 2018 and provides the Central Coast community’s vision for the region and describes the key objectives we can all work towards to achieve that vision over the next 10 years,” Howe said.

“The current interim LSPS

was adopted in 2020 and frames the future land use direction for the Central Coast over the next 20 years.

“Together the CSP and LSPS help guide delivery of the social, environmental and economic aspirations of the community.

“The CSP is part of Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting framework, and is the key guiding document for Council’s service delivery program.

“Council’s contribution towards the CSP is described in our four-year Delivery Program and annual Operational Plan.

“We’re now seeking feedback as we prepare to update both the CSP and LSPS so that they continue to align with community values and aspirations.

“Both documents will be publicly exhibited and adopted after the next local government election.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the community’s input would influence any further changes proposed for the CSP and LSPS, to ensure

the community’s voice leads Council’s strategic and operational decision making.

“The CSP and LSPS represent the highest level of strategic planning undertaken by a local council, and are developed on behalf of the community, so it’s important they represent a

wide range of views,” Hart said. “Council plays a leadership role in initiating and developing the CSP, but it is not solely responsible for its implementation.

“Everyone can contribute to delivery of our community vision, including our partners in state government and nongovernment agencies, businesses and community groups and individual members of the community.

“We want to hear from all community members on the current CSP and LSPS, to make sure that the next iteration of these important guiding documents still aligns with what the community would like to see for the future of the Central Coast.

“This survey is the first step

representatives, participants and their families.

Learn more about Casa Capace’s skilfully designed residences for people living with disability at casacapacewelcomehome. com

Learn more about Coastlink’s wide range of disability, aged care and accommodation options at coastlink.org.au or by following the organisation on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

Source: Coastlink

in our engagement program and will provide us with meaningful data to help gauge what’s important to our community.”

Further consultation will be undertaken via community workshops and public exhibition of the draft documents in early 2025.

To find out more, share your feedback and stay up to date with future engagement opportunities, go to yourvoiceourcoast.com/CSP andLSPS

Feedback will be accepted until Monday , October 16.

Source: Central Coast Council

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, Casa Capace and Coastlink representatives, participants and their families at the launch

Community feedback will help guide future planning for the region

Three residents will live in each villa.

The new Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre is finally open to the public.

There’s a new interactive visitor education centre, accessible family-friendly amenities, a children’s play space and a revitalised picnic area with new picnic table shelters, bins and bench seating.

Central Coast Council Director for Water and Sewer Jamie said the new centre offered an exceptional visitor experience, providing educational insights into the water supply system, natural environment and cultural heritage of the area.

“Council provides a potable water supply service to about 350,000 residents across the region,” he said.

“Key components of the water supply system include Mangrove Creek Dam, Mangrove Creek Weir and their associated catchments.

New visitor centre rises from the ashes

“The new visitor space provides our community with the opportunity to come out and see the scale of this for themselves, taking in the serenity that Mangrove Creek Dam has to offer, all while enjoying the new family friendly facilities.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the Mangrove Creek Weir and Mangrove Creek catchments were significantly affected by the Three Mile Fire in December 2019, with the Mangrove Creek Dam Picnic Area being destroyed.

“Mangrove Creek Dam is the largest dam on the Central Coast and a key component of the Central Coast water supply system,” he said.

“With about 20,000 visitors a year, the provision of an enhanced visitor experience improves our tourism offering in the Central Coast hinterland.

“This project shows how

great things happen when different levels of government work together hand-in-hand with the community.”

The $3.2M project was boosted by $2.567M from the Federal and State Governments’

Bushfire Local Economic Recovery (BLER) Fund. Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the centre would educate the community on where their precious water comes from.

“From the ashes new tourism ventures have grown, with this project promoting the stunning natural landscape which lies in the Central Coast hinterland,” she said.

“The NSW Government is continuing to deliver the

Second year of budget surplus for Council

The 2022-23 financial results for Central Coast Council show a second year of budget surpluses following two years of losses during the financial crisis that put the Coast under administration in late 2020 and culminated in the councillors being officially sacked in March 2022.

Administrator Rik Hart adopted the draft financial statements at the September 26 Council meeting after CEO David Farmer outlined the highlights.

Council recorded a net operating surplus, excluding capital grants and contributions, of $28.5M, which was $21.5M more than budgeted in the 2022-23 financial year.

It was $12M less than the result in the prior year, but Council said it still represented a good result.

Farmer said it was bolstered by the early payment of the 2023-24 Financial Assistance Grant from the Federal Government.

“Remove that early payment and the surplus was about $10M and close to budget while the underlying surplus was about $20M which was close to budget,” he said.

Farmer said the surpluses from the two years were, in total, almost as much as the smaller of the deficits, in 2021, so the Council was still behind by about $90M or the equivalent of the 2020 deficit.

Council took out two emergency loans totalling $150M in December 2020 and Farmer said the larger of the

loans, $100M, was now down to about $80M and money was put aside to repay it in December when it is due to be refinanced.

The money put aside had reached about $40M by the end of the 2022-23 financial year and had grown to about $55M in the first two months of this financial year.

“We plan to retire most if not all of this loan in December,” he said.

He said that was important for two reasons: it removed the debt off the books and would provide free cash flow for other things but also the interest rate on that debt would“dramatically increase” if Council let that roll over in December.

“In summary, Council is in a sound and stable financial position,” Farmer said.

“It still has to deal with debt incurred during the financial crisis and it also has to deal with a range of other financial challenges, consistent with other local governments, for example, the rate cap for the past two years has been one

per cent and 3.8 per cent respectively which is significantly lower than inflation, building construction costs, or the Local Government Award.

“And so therefore we have to manage significant constraints but we’re in a position that is not dissimilar to most other local governments, moving from a position that was possibly the worst, one of the worst, in the country.”

Hart said Council had come an extremely long way in a short period of time.

“It does take time to get this organisation completely back on its feet,” he said.

Earlier, at the public forum held before the meeting, resident activist Kevin Brooks had criticised Council’s financial position, saying the ratepayers were to thank for Council’s financial turnaround.

“The August Consolidated Report forecasts that income from rates this year will be a whopping $421M; just three years ago, it was only $331M,” Brooks said.

support that communities need to keep moving forward in recovery and is ensuring noone is left behind.”

Community consultation was undertaken by Central Coast Council for the project with feedback informing design and construction planning process.

Construction commenced during November 2022, with works completed last month.

The Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day.

The site will be closed to the public during periods of extreme and catastrophic fire danger to manage public safety.

For more information on the Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre go to Council’s Your Voice our Coast website.

Source: Central Coast Council

“Over three budgets since democracy was suspended, income from rates has risen by an eye-watering $90M per year – close to a 30 per cent increase in just three years with more phased increases in the pipeline.

“To put that in perspective, the Administrator is on public record as saying he needed $11M per year to repay loans from the financial crisis.

“He is now raising eight times that in extra rates.”

Brooks said it showed that the burden of the financial turnaround had been borne almost exclusively by ratepayers.

“Even more so when you add asset sales on top,” he said.

The money “gushing into Council coffers” may have papered over the cracks of the financial crisis but it had not solved Council’s underlying problems in poor management, low productivity, poor culture, inefficiency and insufficient prioritisation, Brooks said.

“As at March this year, this

Council had the same number of staff as it did at merger in May 2016 based on the Administrator’s preferred measure of FTE including vacant posts,” he said.

“Given the service cuts and performance decline since then, this means the same number of people are producing less – which means productivity has fallen.

“This Council raises significantly more in rates, spends more, but does less and performs worse.”

The consolidated statements, including for Council’s water and sewer authority, will now be externally audited before being presented to the October Council meeting and are due to be submitted to the Office of Local Government by the October 31 deadline.

“No pressure,” Mr Hart said to the Corporate Services Director, Marissa Racomelara, whose department includes the chief financial office.

The new centre offers an exceptional visitor experience

Merilyn Vale

CEO David Farmer says Council is in a stable financial position

How scammers target our most vulnerable citizens

BALTAZAR Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

Fraudsters have already ripped off Australians by more than $368 million so far this year, according to the federal government’s Scamwatch website.

Top of the 209,000 reports it received were investment scams, followed by dating and romance and false billing.

Older people are particularly at risk: in 2022, those aged 65 and older made the most reports to Scamwatch (49,163) and claimed the highest losses ($120.7 million).

Losses reported by women increased by 76.5% in 2022.

Older people are targeted by the same sorts of scams as the general population, but some are aimed specifically at them.

1. Tech support

When an imposter from ‘tech support’ calls with a fabricated story about a computer virus, or claims that the elderly person

has been hacked, it is often a trick to get the person to hand over remote access to their device or computer.

According to Scamwatch, the average remote-access scam victim is likely to be a woman aged 65 or older living in NSW.

She will typically receive a phone call while at home and be scared or conned into providing remote access to her device.

Often, the call comes after a legitimate inquiry the victim has made about problems with, say, an NBN connection.

Once the scammer has accessed their device, they may get into a bank account and transfer money out.

Reported losses from remote-access scams were $229 million in 2022.

2. Home maintenance

My 92-year-old aunt, who lives in a retirement village, has recently been targeted by a

series of men wanting to check her bathroom's showerhead to see if it is water efficient.

She doesn’t believe their spiel and won’t let them into her small unit.

Scams generally involve promoting goods and services that are of poor quality or never turn up.

Scammers may try to sell tree trimming or roofing services, then bill for additional work that was not agreed to. They may also pretend to

Spot a fake odometer reading

Tales abound of used cars with odometers that have been around the clock. Fortunately, such horror stories can be avoided.

Get official help

NSW Fair Trading issued fines totalling $113,000 in 2021 and 2022 to those trying to rip off customers through odometer tampering.

If you live in the state, you can now use the Service NSW ‘check the registration’ function to access the previous three annual odometer readings.

Buy an independent report

You can purchase independent research such as a Carsales’s history report.

It uses the Personal Property Securities Register and other

external sources to report any odometer discrepancies, if money is owed on the vehicle, and if it’s ever been written off.

Ask to see the logbook

Check the vehicle's logbook history to make sure the odometer readings match the service receipts.

Look for inconsistencies in the paperwork, such as gaps

conduct a survey so they can get personal details.

3. Rebates

Another common scam is an email, call or text promising a refund or rebate from the government, bank or another well-known company.

4. Dating and romance

Lonely older people are perfect targets for romantic scams, often through dating websites, apps or social media.

in service history or sudden changes of mechanic by the same owner.

If the vendor claims to have lost the logbook, this may be a warning flag.

Use your eyes to save dollars

Check to see if the car is leaking oil and do a thorough visual inspection, including the paintwork and upholstery.

Look for signs that the dashboard has been tampered

Pretending to be in love, the fraudsters use emotional triggers to ask for money, gifts or personal details.

5. Inheritances

The false promise of an inheritance can trick people into parting with their money or sharing their bank or credit card details.

6. Prizes and lotteries

These scams operate by asking people to pay a fee to claim

with, such as screws that don’t match the rest of the interior.

Tally car age and mileage

On average, Australians drive 12,100 km a year, so if you’re buying a 2015 car that’s only done 30,000km, you probably want to know more about the former owner's driving habits.

Don’t try to be an expert

Spending a couple of hundred dollars on a pre-purchase

their prize or winnings from a competition or lottery they never entered.

7. Drug carriers

Older people are being tricked into acting as drug mules as a strategy to recover their losses from classic investment and inheritance scams, according to the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force.

“Criminal syndicates, by their very nature, exploit vulnerable communities and will undertake whatever tactics necessary to import drugs into our country,” says AFP Commander Kate Ferry.

She says the victims of these online scams are often elderly and under significant financial hardship when they committed the crime.

“These criminals prey on the vulnerable and, at times, naive, and further victimise them by banking on the fact that they will do whatever it takes to recover their funds.

“The consequences for these victims can be severe, including lengthy terms of imprisonment.”

SUSAN HELY

inspection could potentially save you thousands.

Newer cars can be scanned by a mechanic to make sure no fault codes are showing.

An expert from a company such as RedBook Inspect can also help you uncover inconsistencies with the car's condition and mileage.

If the seller seems reluctant to agree to this, walk away from the deal.

CARSALES.COM.AU

Changes to high-rise units at Long Jetty vetoed

Revised architectural plans for a high-rise residential development at Long Jetty have been knocked back by the Local Planning Panel.

The developer wanted to eliminate in-ground basement car parking and raise the height of buildings by five metres.

Back in 2004, the former Wyong Council approved the original development to construct seven buildings up to 10 storeys high with 217 residential units, a swimming pool and three basement levels including two levels of parking for 356 vehicles and a gym and meeting room on basement level one adjacent the car park entry.

There will be 61 threebedroom apartments and 156 two-bedders within the seven

multi-storey buildings linked by courtyards and communal open spaces.

The 12,026sqm development site is on a prominent corner position extending 108m along Kitchenner Rd, 67m along Toowoon Bay Rd and also taking in 11 Centennial Ave.

The development will be built in three stages with the first being a three-storey building facing Toowoon Bay Rd stepping up to a maximum five-storey building in the western portion of the site, as well as a four-five-storey building stepping up to a maximum seven storeys at the corner of Toowoon Bay Rd and Kitchener Rd.

In the second stage there will be a four-to-five storey building fronting Kitchener Rd stepping up to a maximum seven storeys

and another four-to-five storey building (with a three-storey component) fronting Kitchener Rd stepping up to a maximum seven storeys in the eastern portion of the site.

The third stage comprises three buildings – the 10-storey building central to the site

stepping down to six levels in the northern portion of the site; a two-storey building stepping up to five levels and another three-storey building.

Over the years there have been a few modifications to the original plans and in April this year the developer lodged

another set of alterations under Section 4.55 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act which allows for modifications as long as the development is substantially the same as the original consent.

When the Local Planning Panel met on September 14 it came to the conclusion that the application to modify the plans was not substantially the same development for which consent was originally granted.

Architectural drawings in the application showed the changed heights and levels but didn’t explain why the developer wanted to move two car parking levels to above ground.

The Panel said the Statement of Environment Effects didn’t provide adequate justification

for the increase to building heights, and the amended building height and large new podium structure wasn’t compatible with the zone objectives nor the desired future character of the locality.

There is insufficient detail about the modifications such as the building’s footprint, elevations, sections, floor space ratio, pedestrian access, landscaping and overshadowing of neighbouring properties to enable a proper assessment of the impacts of the modified proposal, the Panel said.

The Panel upheld Central Coast Council’s recommendation to reject the modifications as they were not in the public interest.

Brooks slams water and sewer performance

A performance report into Central Coast Council’s Water and Sewer organisation has been slammed by resident Kevin Brooks, who highlighted nine decreases in performance but a summary that talked about “some pleasing results” at the public forum prior to the September 26 meeting.

“If performance reports are to drive improvement then results must be honestly and objectively interpreted, with causes explained and solutions identified,” Brooks said.

At the meeting, Administrator Rik Hart adopted a raft of water and sewer initiatives including: a Performance Report; a Customer Charter; a Complaints Management Framework; and plans for Community Engagement and Education.

They are the result of recommendations from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) a year ago when it set four years of ongoing water rate rises.

Brooks said the water and

sewer performance showed: a more than 30 per cent increase in water quality complaints; unplanned service interruptions up 18 per cent; water lost to leaks increased almost 20 per cent; a spike in the volume of sewage overflows in the final quarter, and water main breaks up 13 per cent.

Council attributed the main breaks to expansion and contraction of soil attributed to a recent drier period of weather following the La Nina cycle.

“Council’s water main renewal program is forecast to significantly increase in scale from 2023-24 to address deteriorating asset performance over time,” Council said.

“Performance has not achieved the current target, however it remains better than the national average and other similar sized water authorities.”

Council said the total number of water quality complaints was heavily influenced by weather and water quality conditions during January and February 2023.

“These complaints typically peak in summer as demand increases, which results in faster moving water in the distribution network that can stir up accumulated particles,” Council said.

“A significant reduction in water network flushing and cleaning through 2019-20 and 2020-21 has likely contributed to the peak in discoloured water issues experienced last summer.”

Water quality improvements are underway across both the treatment assets that produce clean and safe drinking water

and the network assets that convey water to customers.

Council says a major upgrade to Mardi Water Treatment Plant will improve the filtered water turbidity and chlorine stability.

These works are due to be commissioned in late 2025.

“An ongoing program of removing ‘dead ends’ within the water network by building additional pipelines will minimise the potential for discoloured water accumulation,” Council said.

Brooks also noted that the number of wastewater

FREE SEMINAR WILLS & ESTATES

overflows reported to the environmental regulator remained above target and there was a spike in the number of days that beaches and lagoons were not swimmable because of sewer discharges.

Council said that while the number of overflows caused by tree roots had been decreasing, wet weather events continued to impact the network.

“Increased expenditure in gravity sewer main renewal programs is reducing the overall number of wastewater overflows,” Council said.

“Additional works to reduce inflow and infiltration into the sewerage network are commencing in 2023-24 including inspections, pipe relining and management of illegal stormwater connections.

“Upgrades of sewage pumping station mechanical and electrical assets are also ongoing to improve reliability of the sewerage network.”

In response to non swimming days, Council said sewer discharges included: failure of pipelines, due to age or

TRAPS

Challenging a Will or defending a Will from challenge • Making a Power of Attorney and

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

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

Sue Murray

damage; blockages caused by tree roots growing into the pipe or inappropriate materials being flushed such as fats and oils, wipes and cloth; high volumes of flow due to illegal stormwater connections to sewer; and inflow from floodwater.

Brooks said weather does not explain the scale of deterioration over a full year and called on Council to report quarterly so progress could be tracked.

“Council promised that rate hikes would deliver improvements, yet these shocking results show that services have deteriorated further from an already low base,” he said.

“Ratepayers deserve better. “There needs to be accountability, action and improvement.”

Residents can comment on Council’s draft Water and Sewer Community Engagement and Education Strategy at. yourvoiceourcoast.com/ watersewerengagement

Merilyn Vale

Making an Appointment of Guardian

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

You’ll be helped a lot in understanding the system and will then be able to confidently consider what Estate Planning steps you need to take to properly plan for your own Will, Power of Attorney or Appointment of Guardian.

Location of the high-rise residential development at Long Jetty

Kevin Brooks

JAX Tyres & Auto Gosford

franchisee Peter Bonvino and his brother-in-law, Nathan Metcalfe, are revving up to play their part in a nationwide effort to raise $2M in support of the Cancer Council’s fight against cancer.

Entrants in this year’s Shitbox Rally, the two will set off on October 13 as the Sons of AnaCamry as they attempt to complete a daunting 2,500km journey from Port Douglas to Adelaide.

They will travel on some of Australia’s most unforgiving roads and through towns including Einasleigh, Winton, Windorah, Birdsville, Marree and Rawnsley Park.

Revving up for Cancer Council fundraiser

The rules of the competition say that all competing cars must be purchased for $1,500 or less.

Bonvino and Metcalfe’s 2001 Toyota Camry wagon was taken off the hands of a Brazilian backpacker on his way to the airport for $1,400, back in February 2023.

With no access to the car’s locked-out radio and no aerial, the men are on the search for tapes to use in the auxiliary input cassette player, dating back to some point in the last century.

The rules also prohibit entrants from making modifications to the car (aside from tyres, wrapping, and some key safety elements) so

the men are focussed on fundraising, and making their beloved Camry as memorable as possible.

All donations of $100 or more to the Sons of AnaCamry will allow the donor to have the name of a loved-one lost to

cancer inscribed on the car.

“I lost my mother-in-law, Erin’s mum, to cancer back when our two little girls were one and two years old, and Nathan just recently lost his close friend, Michael, who he’d known since the age of 10,” Bonvino said.

“As well as helping to prevent future deaths, we want to honour the memory of people who’ve sadly already lost their lives to cancer, and we would consider it a huge privilege to carry the names of lost loved ones with us as we fly the flag for Gosford.”

Metcalfe said the two would make a top team.

Being part of the JAX Tyres & Auto team, Peter knows his

Caring for patients in their own homes

Gosford Hospital Auxiliary has donated a handheld doppler for the Hospital in the Home Service (HiTH).

HiTH Clinical Nurse Educator Marte Viljoen, said the doppler, which is worth $5,500, will greatly assist the team in providing clinical care to patients in the comfort of their own homes.

“The doppler is used for the assessment and monitoring of vascular pressures and toe pressures,” she said.

“It allows clinicians to accurately assess patients’ circulatory and vascular health, improving health outcomes and preventing the progression

of serious conditions such as peripheral artery disease, as well as assisting in improved healing and recovery.”

HiTH launched in July 2022 and is a model of care which allows suitable patients to stay at home and receive highquality, acute care while also freeing-up hospital beds for other patients.

Since 1998, Gosford Auxiliary has donated more than $436,000 to Gosford Hospital.

“This amazing sum has funded equipment and contributed to improvements in the care and comforts provided to patients,” Viljoen said.

“We are so fortunate to have

way around a car, and with me working as a paramedic for NSW Ambulance, we’d like to think we’ll be well prepared for whatever the rally decides to throw at us,” he said.

JAX Tyres & Auto Head Office has kicked off the fundraising with a $2,500 donation.

Donations can be made at spring2023.shitboxrally.com. au/sons-of-anacamry/donate

Anyone wishing to have a name inscribed on the car for a donation of $100 or more should enter the name of the person they’d like to be honoured in the message area of the above link.

Source: JAX Tyres & Auto Gosford

a dedicated group of auxiliary members raising money for Gosford Hospital.

“They are loved by staff and patients alike and we all look forward to their fundraising stalls.

“We are extremely appreciative and thankful for their time and efforts.”

The auxiliary’s next fundraising stall will take place in the foyer at Gosford Hospital on Thursday, October 5, with Christmas stalls to be held on Thursdays November 2, December 7 and December 21.

Peter Bonvino and Nathan Metcalfe with their 2001 Camry

Providence Medical Umina and Coastal Lakes Medical Practice Lake Haven will be the providers of two Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs) set to open in November.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Member for Dobell Emma McBride recently announced the two sites, which will see urgent care facilities servicing both the south and north of the region.

The new clinics, which will start seeing patients in November, are set to take the pressure off emergency departments at Gosford and Wyong hospitals, with more than half of presentations to emergency departments for non-urgent or semi-urgent care.

They will be open for extended hours, seven days a week, and offer walk-in care that is fully bulk-billed.

The clinics are two of 14 Medicare UCCs to be established across the state. Health Minister Mark Butler said the UCCs would make a big difference to patients on the Central Coast who would be able to get the urgent care they need when they need it.

Urgent care clinics confirmed for Coast

“The clinic will ease pressure on the Gosford and Wyong hospitals, so that hard-working doctors and nurses can focus on higher priority emergencies,” he said.

“The Labor MPs on the Central Coast went to the election and championed the Urgent Care Clinic model because they knew the difference that it will make; they are delivering for their communities.”

McBride said it had been increasingly difficult for Central Coast residents to see a doctor.

“Working at Wyong Hospital for almost 10 years, I have seen first-hand that for too long many people in our community have had to wait long hours at the emergency department,” she said.

“(The Lake Haven) UCC is going to offer the high-quality urgent care that our community deserves, open seven days a week and fully bulk-billed.”

Reid said many Coasties have had to wait long hours in the Gosford Hospital emergency department for non-lifethreatening issues, like sutures for minor wounds, imaging and pathology.

“The Peninsula Medicare

UCC will help ease the pressure on our local health services and be much more convenient for our community – and bulkbilled under Medicare,” he said.

Providence Medical Umina and Coastal Lakes Medical Practice were identified as the preferred providers through a comprehensive tender process run by Hunter New England and Central Coast (HNECC) Primary Health Network (PHN).

CEO Richard Nankervis said the PHN was pleased to partner with the established practices to provide the community additional alternative primary health care services.

“By establishing Medicare UCCs co-located with existing medical centres and nearby to pathology, radiography and pharmacy services, these clinics will deliver muchneeded care for people with urgent but not life-threatening medical conditions,” he said.

“Both Providence Medical and Coastal Lake’s teams of GPs, practice nurses, management and support staff provide professional and caring environments delivering high quality, best practice urgent care medicine in a modern setting to families and individuals.”

The UCCs will be equipped to treat minor illnesses (including respiratory illness, gastrointestinal illness, urinary

tract infections and sexually transmitted infections) and minor injuries including closed fractures, simple lacerations, simple eye injuries and minor burns.

They will also provide: wound management including gluing, suturing and dressings (including for minor burns); incision and drainage of abscesses; basic fracture management including application of back slabs and plasters; intravenous cannula insertion to allow for IV antibiotics and IV rehydration fluids; urinary catheter management and changes for males and females; and removal of foreign bodies from the ear and nose.

UCCs are not intended to treat potentially life-threatening problems (such as cardiac chest pain, severe shortness of breath or altered conscious state) or manage labour and birth.

The general practices will continue to provide ongoing management of chronic disease, routine medical examinations, vaccinations and childhood immunisation and mental health care plans.

Terry Collins

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Member for Dobell Emma McBride with Dr Raymond Fam at the announcement

Nursing services brought to your door

With more than 24 per cent of the population in and around Gosford over the age of 65 or living with a disability, a recent Roy Morgan survey demonstrates an overwhelming desire for Australians to keep staying in their own homes as they age.

New pilates class to support cancer survivors

A new Breast Cancer Support Pilates class will start in October at Reform Pilates Studio in Toukley.

The first of its kind on the Central Coast, the small class will be aimed specifically at supporting women who have been impacted by breast cancer.

It will be taught by Rebekah Reid, who has a decade of experience teaching rehabilitative Pilates and is a Cancer Exercise Specialist from the worldwide Cancer Exercise Institute.

“I want our Breast Cancer Support Pilates classes to be a

way for women who have experienced going through cancer treatments to feel confident in returning to exercise,” she said.

“The classes will be small five-person group sessions so we can get to know each other on a more personal level as each person’s journey with cancer has been entirely unique.”

Pilates is a low impact form of exercise which makes it a natural choice for recovery, she said.

The exercises repattern musculature in an effective but non-aggressive manner

resulting in increased strength, flexibility, and mobility.

“In the sessions we also do specific exercises to avoid lymphedema and rebalance the body after surgeries,” Reid said.

“Exercise in general has farreaching positive benefits for cancer recovery both physically and psychologically.“

Classes will begin at noon on October 12.

For more information go to reformpilatesstudio.com.au/ breastcancersupport

Source: Reform Pilates Studio

But many Coast residents find themselves at a crossroads as they seek additional medical or non-medical support.

Their options often appear limited, compelling them to turn to already under-resourced hospitals or residential care facilities.

Local doctor, Jesseca Bayona, witnessed these challenges first-hand during her tenure in hospitals and was determined to ease the strain on the healthcare system while giving residents the autonomy to stay in their own homes with adequate medical support.

Her solution was to launch Nurse Next Door Home Care Services in Gosford.

The business is grounded in the unwavering commitment to

deliver the highest calibre of personalised care to residents living at home.

Bayona has developed a comprehensive suite of caregiving and nursing services, meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Her team of dedicated and compassionate caregivers and nurses provides a wide array of services designed to enhance the overall wellbeing of clients.

“Each and every resident who is elderly or living with a disability deserves the opportunity to experience the highest quality of life possible,” Bayona said.

“My mission is to create a

profound impact on their lives by offering personalised care that empowers them to stay in their own homes, on their own terms and continue enjoying the activities they love.”

Nurse Next Door Home Care Services champions a constructive, inclusive, and fulfilling approach to aged care and disability support.

“My vision is to be known for Making Lives Better and creating memorable experiences through personalised support to people who are requiring some level of care in our community,” Bayona said.

“After all love is in the details.”

Source: Nurse Next Door

Margaret Clements, Kylie Goldie, Rebekah Reid, Corinne Simms and Kristel Aird try their hand at Pilates

Jesseca Bayona of Nurse Next Door Home Care Services

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

Grow Your Own Herbs

Growing your own herbs is one of the easiest gardening practices that you can undertake.

Not only that, the flavours of herbs, freshly picked from the garden is unbeatable.

Let’s not forget the costsaving because you will only ever cut what you need and never need to buy a few sprigs for a handful of dollars again.

Herbs also add their aromas to your garden and lend lovely textures and colour with their varying foliage and delightfully sweet flowers. So, let’s hop into the herb patch this week!

Which Herbs?

As with all plants, you will find a larger variety of seeds available than seedlings in the marketplace and this is simply because it would be impossible for the market to support hundreds and thousands of varieties of herbs in seedling form.

Grow what you know you will eat but this bunch is a great foundational start to your herb garden. Italian Parsley, Sweet

Basil, Perennial or ‘Slow Bolt’ Coriander, Rosemary, Garlic Chives, Jekkas or Creeping Thyme, Oregano, Dill, Mint (but keep mint in a pot or container garden as it will overtake your garden).

This foundation will set you up for a range of familiar flavours everyone will love and from here, start exploring for new additions to your growing herb garden.

Growing Herbs

Most herbs need at least six hours of sun every day to ensure strong, healthy growth and flavour.

While herbs such as mint, lemon balm and most parsleys can survive on less than six hours, others like rosemary, oregano and thyme need their full six-hour quota.

Drainage is also crucial as most will not survive getting their feet wet.

Soil that is friable (light and crumbly) is also needed and although most herbs do not require an over-rich soil, organic compost, and the

addition of well-rotted manure prior to planting will help them to thrive as will the addition of a light watering of a seaweed emulsion every month to encourage strong root growth and as a tonic against disease. If planting in pots, you must have lots of drainage holes and don’t allow water to pool in the bottom of any saucers you might want to use.

Grouping of plants with like needs will help create a microclimate that will protect your herbs from the extremes of heat and cold and make caring for them easier.

Growing herbs indoors is a little challenging but can be done if you have the right light conditions.

Just make sure that this position is not directly next to a closed glass window as there is a danger of the plant becoming burnt.

Some seeds do better if you sow directly in beds, while others can be raised up in starter pots to seedling stage before transplanting. Check information for each type.

TASKS & TIPS FOR YOU THIS WEEK

Many herbs die back over winter and will need replacing. Now is the time to renew your basil and pop it in this year next to your tomatoes as it will improve their flavour. This week you can plant the following: culinary herbs, bens, beetroot, cabbage, cape gooseberry, capsicum, carrot, celery, chicory, choko, cress, cucumber, eggplant, endive, leeks, lettuce, marrow, melons, mustard, okra, parsnip, pumpkins, radishes, rhubarb, rosella, salsify, silverbeet, spring onions, squashes, sweet corn, sweet potato, tomatoes, ageratum, alyssum, amaranths, aster, Californian poppy, carnation, celosia, coleus, cosmos, dianthus, everlasting daisy, gazania, gerbera, gypsophila, impatiens, marigold, nasturtium, petunias, phlox, portulaca, salvia, snap dragon, sunflower, verbena, vinca, zinnia

Help shape the future of the Central Coast

To grow from seed, dampen a good quality seed raising mix and lay this on top of your garden bed or use in seed pots. Plant your seeds and if there is still the danger of frost or cold conditions, cover with a cloche. This can simply be a clear bottom of a drink bottle.

Mulch around your plants, not too close to stems to help retain moisture and to keep soil temperature constant.

For tender herbs such as chives, parsley and dill I recommend sugar cane mulch as it will help reflect heat in summer and for more robust herbs like rosemary and thyme, straw mulch will work well. A lot more expensive, lucerne mulch is also an option for all herbs.

Seeds can be allowed to slightly dry out between

Cheralyn is a home and garden 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

watering’s to encourage root development, but new seedlings will require watering each day for the first week and then most will need to be watered once or twice a week depending on herb type and rainfall.

Feeding your herbs with a complete balanced fertiliser or a homemade organic mix every month will help boost the growth.

Herb plants need you to eat them! Harvesting regularly promotes them to grow healthier and bushier which means more herbs and less failure to pests and disease.

Australian Native Herbs Don’t stop at the old favourites, to add some real zing to your cooking and to make the local wildlife happy, pop in a few Australian Native Herbs.

Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is probably the most well-known native herb and works well in baking, teas, sauces and meat dishes that will benefit from its zesty flavour. As a bonus, this plant can live in part shade and indoors as it is a rainforest plant.

Native Thyme (Prostanthera incisa) has a warm pepperymint flavour and goes well with meat dishes or make herbal tea. It needs very good drainage and a full sun position to thrive.

Native River Mint (Mentha australis) will need to be grown in a pot as it will spread like its mint cousins, but it is a lovely local alternative that can be used in all the places of common mint in your kitchen.

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT PEOPLE

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

Matcham Holgate Produce Share

On this Sunday 8 October at 10am Fires Creek Winery 192 Wattle Tree Road, Holgate

Bring your homegrown vegies, fruit, herbs, eggs, plants, cuttings, seeds, and/or preserves along to share with our beautiful community and you’ll go home with some other beautiful homegrown goodness. Not yet growing enough to bring along? Please come anyway and donate to our local charity. Don’t forget to arrive on time, it all happens pretty quickly!

Central Coast Edible Garden Trail

21 & 22 October is a weekend of inspiration, connection and so much fun!

Grab your ticket early so you have plenty of time to peruse the huge range of gardens. Garden hosts will share their passion, wisdom and practical know-how to a steady flow of visitors. If you’re looking for in depth information on a particular garden be sure to arrive for a scheduled tour where the host will take a group through their garden and explain their systems, design and plant choices, what’s worked and what hasn’t.

We’re seeking your feedback to help inform the next iteration of the Central Coast Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS)! These documents help guide the delivery of the social, environmental and economic aspirations of the community – so it’s important they represent a wide range of views.

Since the adoption of the first CSP in 2018, the world and our communities have experienced a lot of change. Now, we want to hear from you to ensure these documents align with your evolving aspirations for our region and help guide Council’s strategic and operational decision making.

Scan the OR code to complete the survey or visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/CSPandLSPS

Feedback accepted until Monday 16 October

Two more signings for Mariners women’s team

The Central Coast Mariners are continuing to bolster their ranks ahead of the upcoming A-League Women’s seasons, with latest signings including Chinese International soccer forward Wurigumula and young goalkeeper Chloe Carmichael.

Wurigumula joins the club from the Chinese Super League Women’s competition, most recently playing for Changchun Jiuyin Loans in the 2022 league season.

A genuine goalscorer who is calm and composed in front of goal, Wurigumula signs with some serious international experience.

The 27-year-old featured for China in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, playing more than 100 minutes in their campaign.

She has since been a regular for the Chinese Women’s National Team, currently featuring for them in the 2023 Asian Games.

Mariners Head Coach Emily

Husband said the Chinese International would be an important player for the team.

“Wurigumula has so many great qualities, including her work in and around the penalty area,” Husband said.

“She has some top-quality experience having played in the Olympics and in and around the national team.

“To have someone to get on the end of passes (who) is

clinical around the box is brilliant for us.

“We know that she will bring that experience to the squad.”

Carmichael has been signed on a scholarship contract ahead of the upcoming A-League Women’s season.

The 20-year-old has most recently played her football for NSW League One Women’s side Nepean FC, having come through the Football NSW Institute as a junior.

Carmichael has also already had a taste of international football, having travelled away and played with the Junior Matildas during the 2019 AFC U-16 Women’s Championship Qualifiers in Laos.

An electric goalkeeper with sharp reflexes and quality ball distribution skills, the youngster now continues her footballing journey with her first A-League Women’s contract.

Carmichael is ecstatic to have been given the opportunity to be a part of the A-League Women’s squad and is eager for the season ahead.

“I am so excited to have received a professional contract from the Mariners and I can’t wait to be a part of the squad for the upcoming season,” she said.

“I am extremely grateful for the club for the opportunity, and

I cannot wait to give it my all.

“To be around the girls in a professional environment will be amazing.

“With the Mariners coming back into the competition this season, there is such a positive buzz around football on the Central Coast at the moment.

“To be a part of the Mariners A-League Women’s journey is exciting.”

Mariners Head Coach Emily Husband is pleased to be able to bring Carmichael into the squad ahead of this season, excited to watch her continue to grow as a goalkeeper.

“Chloe is another one of the players who have come through the Football NSW Institute and has been playing first grade for a while now,” Husband said.

“For her to be able to continue her journey of footballing development with the Mariners this season is great for us, and also great for Chloe.”

Boost for Peninsula Swans

The Woy Woy Peninsula Swans have received $2,500 through the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

The club will use the grant funding to buy canteen equipment including a chest freezer and barbecue utensils.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the Swans were an outstanding local sporting organisation.

“The Stronger Communities Program supports local organisations with infrastructure and equipment needs,” he said.

“I am pleased to see grant funding go towards supporting

volunteers at the Woy Woy Peninsula Swans.

“It is important that our local sporting clubs are well resourced so that they can continue supporting and encouraging younger Australians to be active and part of a sporting team. Swans President Lara Davis said the funding would help the club better manage its canteen.

“(The money) will be used to upgrade the canteen and barbecue facilities at our home ground at Rogers Park,” she said.

“The canteen forms a central hub for the club, part of the socialising for parents during training and a zone of excitement

for kids on game days”.

“The canteen and barbecue are run by our fabulous parent volunteers.

“A lot of the canteen equipment is old and required upgrading.

“More than one of our volunteers had made suggestions on what equipment we needed to upgrade.”

Davis said the purchases would include a chest freezer, needed to store ice in case of injuries.

To contact the Woy Woy Peninsula Swans, email: psjafl@gmail.com

Source: Central Coast Mariners

Chinese International soccer player Wurigumula Young goalkeeper Chloe Carmichael has signed with the Mariners for the A-League Women’s season

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid presents the cheque to members of the Woy Woy Peninsula Swans

Mark Jackson has joined the Central Coast Mariners as football manager.

The Englishman most recently managed Milton Keynes Dons, having developed as a coach through his time at Leeds United.

After a playing career spanning more than 15 years which included stints with Leeds and Scunthorpe United while also playing four times for the Under-20s English National Team, Jackson moved into football management.

Initially joining Leeds as an under-15s coach, Jackson worked his way through the ranks, achieving extremely strong results across the club’s academy system.

He took over the head coach role for the newly promoted

Coast women are U19 State Champs

The Central Coast U19s female cricket squad are the state country champs, after a recent victory at the NSW Country Championship.

Day one saw Central Coast defeat North Coastal after putting 189 runs on the board.

Ava Drury finished up on 57 runs and backed it up with her bowling with 4/8 off 6.

On the second day of competition, Central Coast went on to defeat Southern Districts with Scarlett Sheridan bowling 3/8 off 3.

The home team then chalked up another win on the afternoon by defeating Greater Illawarra with Eliza Thompson putting 46 runs on the board off 61 and Layla Graham taking three wickets in three overs.

On day three Central Coast defeated Newcastle in a close game with Ava Drury taking 4/7 off 3.

Having remained undefeated

New football manager for Mariners

Dons as the head coach.

Jackson spent six months with the club before leaving to join the Mariners.

He has the endorsement of former head coach Nick Montgomery.

Mariners Sporting Director Matt Simon said Jackson would be a fantastic addition to the club.

“After the very first conversation we had with Mark, it was very clear he is the right person to lead the club into the future,” Simon said.

“His experience and track record with youth development was a standout and fits in with exactly what we want to continue to do at the club.”

throughout the three days of competition, the Central Coast team faced-up to Western in the final.

After winning the toss, the home team elected to bat.

Captain Eliza Thompson put 26 on the board off 32.

Emily Humphreys followed with 21 off 30 with Layla Graham coming in with 15 runs.

Central Coast finished the overs on 6/85.

Western went out to bat with some incredible bowling from our Coasties winning the day.

Tara French took 2/18 off 4, Emily Humphreys 2/20 off 4 and Eliza Thompson 2/3 off 2.

Rejoice Mudavose came in with some textbook wicketkeeping taking a catch, run out and stumping with the Central Coast declared U19s Female NSW Country Champs.

U23s team as they moved into the Premier League 2 Division 2, earning promotion in his first

campaign with the squad. This success saw him move into the role of first team coach

Helping future proof Southern Spirit

The Southern Spirit Cricket Club at Umina Beach has had a major boost heading into the 2023 season.

The club will use $7,500 from the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program to buy sporting equipment including a mobile scoreboard and other items.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said sport was a huge part of Coasties’ lives.

“It’s important we keep healthy with regular exercise,” he said.

“When we have strong sporting clubs, we have healthy communities.”

Southern Spirit Cricket Club spokesperson Sean Dickson said the support would help future-proof the club.

“Grants like these are essential for local sporting clubs to help provide top quality

recreational services and experiences to its members and the greater community,” he said.

“The funds granted to us have been utilised for the purchase of assets which will go a long way in future-proofing our club for current and future members.”

of Leeds United under Jesse Marsch, a position he held until opting to move to Milton Keynes

Mariners Chairman Richard Peil said Jackson would fit seamlessly into the community

and was a great cultural fit for the club.

Jackson said he was proud and extremely excited to be joining the Mariners.

“To be a part of a club with a community and family feel, that wants youth players to come in … is really nice,” he said.

“I want to play front-foot football and dominate every part of the game.

“That is my philosophy, that is how I want my teams to play, and that is what I will bring to the Central Coast.

“The club is in a fantastic position, so I want to continue that good work and help the club grow and continue to move forward.”

Source: Central Coast Mariners

Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and members of the Southern Spirit Cricket Club

Mark Jackson has joined the Mariners as football manager

The victorious U19 female Central Coast team

Source: Central Coast Cricket

in partnership with the Newcastle All Blacks, the event

is one of the largest annual Indigenous sporting events in NSW.

Also referred to as the Koori Knockout, the event, last held on the Coast in 2019, once again showcased the outstanding talent and sportsmanship of both men and women rugby league players.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services

Melanie Smith said the 150 teams participating across the four-day event provided enormous entertainment for visitors who travelled from across the country to attend.

“We want to congratulate all the teams who participated, especially the winners of the

men’s and women’s competitions – the Walgett Aboriginal Connection and the Newcastle Yowies respectively,” she said.

“Council is proud of being able to provide a venue of such calibre, which of course is also of huge benefit year-round for the local community and sporting clubs.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said this year’s event involved a larger number of teams than participated in 2019.

“With so many more teams participating this year, the Tuggerah venue proved it is the best complex to cater for such large numbers, which in turn has delivered significant economic benefits to the

local community, he said.

“While the final economic benefit figures are yet to be finalised, we anticipate the event generated around $6M into the local economy, providing a direct benefit to our region’s small businesses and local employment.”

Source: Central Coast Council

Clockwise from top: Darkinjung Waters and Northern United after their round two game; Players in action; Darkinjung Waters women’s team members Donna Sutton Olivia Kernick and Mel Sutto