Coast Community News #416

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16 NOVEMBER 2023

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS • COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ISSUE 416

News

Water ski action builds to crescendo

Four events to help nail Net Zero See page 5

Out&About

E

A YEAR E S A L E

Have a musical adventure with Nicky Bomba See page 13 The 22nd IWWF World Water Ski Racing Championships is approaching a crescendo on the Brisbane Water, with each category appearing as though it may go to the final day to crown the best water ski racers in the world.

See page 3 and 31

Business

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Koolewong and Point Clare/ Tascott Progress Association is ramping up calls for a major fix for Glenrock Pde at Tascott after President Ken Janson was * INFINITY RANGE involved in a car accident in late October.

Coast Community News first brought the issue to light 18 months ago, at which time Janson said the road was full of huge potholes, had no drainage and the road surface and edges had deteriorated to such a point that they were extremely dangerous.

Nothing has been done to address the problem since and Janson himself fell victim to the continuously worsening conditions on October 29,

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Ken Janson will be in a neck brace for at least eight weeks

narrowly escaping with his life.

“I was just returning from shopping at West Gosford and coming up on the left-hand side of the road, with my indicator light on to turn (right) into my driveway in Glenrock Pde,” he said.

“Because I have to make a sharp turn and drive a manual car, I had slowed almost to a stop and was just starting to make the turn when I saw a flash on the right side of the car.

“It was a car set to overtake me and as it did, it clipped my car and sent it off the road into the embankment leading down to the railway line.

“The car flipped three times as it rolled down the embankment.

“My head hit the ceiling of the car and it fractured my neck in two places.”

When the car came to rest Janson, unable to get out of it, turned the ignition off.

“I was terrified it would burst into flames but couldn’t get out,” he said.

“I was very lucky I didn’t die on the spot.

“If my spinal cord had been severed I would have been paralysed or dead.

“Emergency service workers were on site within 15 minutes and they managed to get me out of the car and into an ambulance.”

Continued page 3

Read the paper online in flip book format at CoastCommunityNews.com.au (or scan QR code above) Curtains

Coast picks up three golds at NSW Tourism Awards See page 21

Sport

Mariners men defeated as women hold fast See page 32

Puzzles page 18

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EDITORIAL This week Council Administrator Rik Hart and CEO David Farmer attended the NSW Local Government Conference in Parramatta.

Here they mixed with mayors and councillors from across the state in deciding motions that will affect the local government sector in NSW. The irony is that the Central Coast has no elected representatives, but rather a State Government-appointed administration which has been in place for more than three years and will continue until September next year.

The justifications made for sacking all councillors and denying the community any new representatives were compelling at the time.

The sacked councillors had failed to see that Council’s finances were in a parlous state.

Yet to be fair the NSW audit office and a highly qualified internal risk and audit committee had also failed

to see the signs.

All the same Minister Wendy Tuckerman sacked the elected representatives and locals were denied any future say in the direction of the Council.

Simply put, we couldn’t be trusted to handle the difficult situation that was created by the amalgamation of Gosford and Wyong councils years before.

Our amalgamation should have delivered savings and increases in service levels, though we now know the exercise was woefully underfunded and hugely complex, as are most mergers in the corporate world.

This erosion of local democracy has been marked by a trifecta of challenges: no local representation, skyrocketing rates and charges and a decline in local services.

The most palpable manifestation of this decline is the relentless increase in rates and charges, burdening households and businesses alike.

Local government, once considered to be the voice of the

people, seems to have lost touch with the economic realities faced by constituents.

The imposition of higher rates without commensurate service improvements leaves taxpayers questioning the purpose of their hard-earned contributions.

Concurrently, the deterioration of essential services paints a grim picture of local governance on the Central Coast.

Residents find themselves contending with potholed roads and longer waiting times for development applications.

The services that underpin the quality of life on the Central Coast are succumbing to the strains of administration and priorities that have no oversight from elected leaders.

Equally distressing has been the trend of selling off valued community assets, a shortsighted approach that sacrifices long-term sustainability for immediate financial gain.

This not only alienates residents from their own shared spaces but also raises questions about the fiduciary responsibility of those

A fundraising bike ride organised by Central Coast-based group, Bikers for Legacy, will be held on Sunday, November 19.

MISSING LINK

The ride will raise funds for Brisbane Water Legacy, and Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only. with Legacy celebrating its Centenary this year, will be a B occasion.

S K T very special S Iraised Efrom the ride S O A L Money R V A X will go towards supplying food E families I K N T hampers to T veterans’ thisO Christmas.

I E R T I A A The bikers are set to ride on November 19 Registration E is at Heatherbrae A I Pies,E207 Pacific Hwy,E Ourimbah I C L OOurimbah E E where there will president Ty Coates said.

RSL at 8.30am, with stands up at D E F Ube raffles, E S prizes and “The planned route is only 9.30am. entertainment.

M U E S about an hour-and-a-half, a Participants are asked for a A K E “HopefullyS there will be pretty easy ride.” $20 donation per bike to join between 80 and 100 riders on S the ride which finishes at the day,” Bikers for Legacy The club formed about a year

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entrusted with safeguarding community assets.

Administrator Rik Hart has done what he has been tasked to do by the State Government professionally and responsibly with the limitations he has been given.

It is not his job to create and enact State Government policy; that is the job of our elected state politicians.

The demise of local democracy on the Central Coast demands urgent attention and corrective action.

It necessitates a return to the principles of transparency, community engagement and responsible fiscal management.

As one of the largest council areas in the state, the Central Coast should be leading the NSW Local Government Conferences, not just observing them.

Now is the time to take back local democracy by encouraging level-headed, well-qualified locals to organise themselves to do a great service to the community and become good councillors for the region.

David Abrahams - Managing Editor

Bikers set to ride for Legacy

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ago and is endorsed and supported by Brisbane Water NSW Legacy and sponsored by Ourimbah RSL Club.

“We’ve got nine members, so it’s a small club, but we are real givers and prepared to do the work to raise money for Legacy,” Coates said.

“We just love riding and supporting such a necessary cause as Legacy.”

Brisbane Water NSW Legacy CEO Peter Lawley said Legacy was extremely grateful for the continuing support.

“We are able to fund Christmas hampers that our Legatees (volunteers) will deliver to our most needy and vulnerable in the weeks leading up to Christmas,” he said.

THURSDAY, 16 NOVEMBER 2023

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Call for urgent fix on dangerous Glenrock Pde From page 1 After six days in hospital, Janson was told he would be in a brace for at least eight weeks and has to go to Royal North Shore Hospital in December for tests to make sure his neck is knitting satisfactorily.

He also has rib fractures and a nasty laceration on his head.

“It is difficult to sleep and I have a nurse who comes to help me shower,” he said.

He says the accident would not have been nearly as bad if the side of the road had not deteriorated to the point where it dips down sharply to the railway line and if there were some sort of safety fencing.

“When I moved here in 2009 there was a wide area between the road and the railway embankment,” he said.

“It has steadily deteriorated since.

“Last year a crack developed; they came any put bitumen over it which did nothing to solve the problem.”

Janson said the then Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks had secured $65M in black spot funding several years ago, some of which was to be used on Glenrock Pde.

Ken Janson’s car after the accident

“Council used the money to repair a section of the road near Koolewong railway station, which did not need fixing, and did nothing between there and Tascott station, where the problems really are,” he said.

“The state of the road is so bad now that buses can no longer pass each other.

“There should at least be a wire fence between the road and the embankment.

“The situation is increasingly dangerous with people forced to walk on the road itself when going to the station or shops.”

A Council spokesperson said

roadworks along Glenrock Pde were unlikely for at least four years.

“As part of Council’s annual Capital Works Program, funding is allocated to undertake an extensive Road Renewal Program,” the spokesperson said.

“This type of funding is designed to maintain and improve the condition of the road network by undertaking works such as crack sealing, road rehabilitation, resurfacing of the pavement and the like.

“It should be noted these renewal works do not provide

Ken Janson’s car flipped three times as it went down the embankment

new infrastructure, such as kerb and gutter or footpaths, where they currently do not exist.

“Council uses an advanced Pavement Management System to prioritise road segments, select treatment options and develop the Road Renewal Program.

“Roads considered for inclusion in the Road Renewal Program are objectively assessed and prioritised via application of a range of technical criteria within our road pavement management system.

“Projects with the highest priority are then considered for an allocation of funding.

“Based on the above criteria, no renewal works of Glenrock Pde are expected to be undertaken within the next four years, but they are likely to be undertaken within the next 5-10 years.

“Importantly however, until such time as further road renewal works are able to be done, Council’s maintenance staff will continue to routinely inspect the road pavement and schedule any maintenance repair works, such as pothole repairs, as required.

“Council has previously undertaken road upgrade works in Glenrock Pde between Koolewong station and Havendale Close with the provision of street drainage, kerb and gutter, new road pavement and footpath.

“Additionally, a landslip which occurred on the embankment opposite house number 310 has been investigated and made safe.

“Grant funding has recently been secured to carry out remediation of the area with Council awaiting receipt of a concept design.

“Following this, tender documentation will be released seeking a suitably qualified contractor to carry out the works.

“Updates on this project can be viewed by visiting Council’s website and viewing the interactive disaster recovery map by searching ‘disaster recovery’.”

Koolewong and Point Clare/ Tascott Progress Association says this simply isn’t good enough and will investigate starting a petition to urge immediate action.

Terry Collins

Water ski championships to bring huge economic benefit

The teams walked from The Haven to Terrigal Beach along the Boardwalk

The world’s leading water ski racers are on the Central Coast as the 2023 IWWF World Water Ski Racing Championships take place this week on the Gosford waterfront, with an expected boost to the local economy of up to $5M. Competitors gathered at Terrigal on November 10, walking across the Boardwalk from The Haven to Terrigal Beach, proudly displaying their national flags, for the opening ceremony.

After the athletes were welcomed to Darkinjung Country with a traditional smoking ceremony, they were greeted by the Chairperson of the IWWF Racing Council – Vera van den Bossche from Belgium – as the appointed

representative of the International Waterski and Wakeboarding Federation.

Current World Champion, Australian Carter Robinson, delivered the Athletes Oath and Australian representative Judge Janice Thurgar delivered the Judge’s oath.

Member for Gosford Leisl Tesch, a seven-time Australian Paralympian in sailing and basketball, officially opened the championships, with the races beginning on November 11.

“We’re proud to have welcomed competitors from around the world to the Central Coast for this world championship event,” Water Ski Racing World Championships Association Chairman, Stewart Smith, said.

“It has been over six months of hard work to get to this point and the feeling of excitement around Gosford and the impact of the internationals on the local community is hard to escape.

“The conditions are conducive to high speeds and fast racing with racers expected to reach over 100 miles per hour or nearly 180 kilometres per hour in the early stages of the race.”

“The anticipation about the event has been building since the teams started arriving early this week with the battle lines being drawn in the paddock before an engine has even been fired.”

Competitors range from the fastest men in the world to the event’s youngest competitor – 13-year-old New Zealander

The athletes gathered on Terrigal Beach after walking from The Haven

Ellison Hollands, who had to be given special dispensation to compete after only making age two weeks ago.

Multiple Australians are in with a shot of winning world titles and in some cases successfully defending, but stiff opposition will come from New Zealand, a youthful American squad, Great Britain and the Belgians.

Races continue on the Brisbane Water at Gosford on November 13, 15 and 18 with the closing ceremony to take place on Sunday, November 19, at Drifters Wharf.

Official live coverage is available at www.facebook. com/wwsrc2023 or www. skiracing.com.au Gosford Erina Business

Chamber President Peter Lawley said hosting the championships would have significant economic benefits for the local economy, with the Chamber’s organising committee linking local businesses to the event.

“With an estimated 1,500 visitors participating or supporting the event, the flowon to local business, accommodation providers and suppliers is expected to provide an economic boost up to $5M,” Lawley said.

The world-class event will be broadcast around the world, showcasing each of the four race days.

“This exposure of the magnificent Brisbane Water and Gosford to the world follows hot on the heels of the

English national women’s football team being based at Industree Stadium in August and also showcasing the Gosford waterfront,” Lawley said.

Race days are free for spectators, with minimal disruption to normal traffic flows around the waterfront expected.

“This event, to be followed by the Tubular music festival on November 24-25, finally sees Gosford waterfront being utilised for the community after many years of little action at a wonderful location,” Lawley said.

Terry Collins

PAGE 4

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Vales Point Power Station review open to public NSW Environment Protection Authority CEO Tony Chappel will address a public meeting of community action group Future Sooner at 12.30pm on Friday, December 1, at Chain Valley Bay community hall.

It is a timely visit as the Environment Protection Licence for Vales Point Power Station is due for renewal in December and Future Sooner has some submission ideas for residents to consider.

These include: Stricter limits on emissions to bring Australia up to best practices as per Europe and Japan; regular independent audits of power station operations and the studies and reports required by the licence conditions to be publicly available; air quality monitoring increased around power stations and included at local school playgrounds.

At the meeting Future Sooner

will present the air quality impacts from the coal-fired power stations on Lake Macquarie – Vales Point and Eraring – and Hunter Community Environment Centre Coordinator Jo Lynch will give a presentation on coal-ash waste and water impacts.

An Environmental Protection Licence is issued by the NSW EPA to every polluting facility in NSW and contains the conditions that an operator must adhere to, including limits on how much air and water pollution can be emitted from a facility, the frequency and nature of monitoring and reporting of contaminants, the kind of reports and information an operator must provide to the EPA and the public and other special conditions to ensure best practice and the minimisation of harm to people and the environment.

This review takes place every

Vales Point Power Station

five years and through community participation in the 2019 review, stricter limits were introduced on heavy metal/metalloid leachate pollution entering the lake estuary from power station discharges.

To learn more about this review process, or to get involved in keeping coal power accountable, Hunter Community Environment

Centre will hold a webinar on Monday, November 20, between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.

Registration is essential via the Centre’s Facebook page.

Conditions of the Vales Point Power Station Environment Protection Licence and the community’s access to information is open for public comment until Monday, November 27.

An amendment to the Vales

Point Power Station licence has now come into effect and is expected to be introduced for all facilities producing and dumping ash waste in NSW. The Coal Ash Monitoring condition increases the scrutiny and data available on coal ash waste deposits and is another step toward the safe and beneficial recycling of ash waste.

The EPA says that it requires

power station operators to meet legally enforceable conditions relating to air, water, noise, land contamination, waste and other operational matters designed to protect the community and the environment.

“The EPA has recently progressed a number of strategic initiatives across the operational power stations, to address air emissions and increase transparency around the generation and re-use of coal ash,” a spokesperson said.

“The EPA is inviting public feedback as part of our review to ensure we reduce risks to human health and the environment from coal fired power stations.”

To read more about the review and to submit your thoughts to the EPA go online to yoursay. epa.nsw.gov.au/review-ofpower-station-licences Sue Murray

Four events to help nail Net Zero Inspired by the actions of two Wollongong grandfathers who are sailing from the Illawarra to Newcastle to raise attention for the need to stop burning fossil fuels, Central Coast community groups will be holding four events from November 17 to 19 to Nail Net Zero.

“Dr Simon Leslie and Tom Hunt are sailing their kayak (it’s a sea kayak with a sail!) to Newcastle to participate in the largest peaceful civil disobedience protest for climate action in Australia’s history and they’re including a stop-over on the Central Coast,” Climate Future spokesperson Richard Weller said.

“We concur with Simon and Tom – there is still far too little being done in Australia to combat the climate crisis and we have no time to lose.

“As a coastal community with a growing population, the Central Coast is particularly vulnerable.”

Four events are planned for the Central Coast and

The men are sailing a kayak from the Illawarra to Newcastle to raise awareness

organisers – Climate Future, the Narara Eco Village, The Point ESG News Site, Future Sooner, the Community Environment Network and Rising Tide – are encouraging the whole community to join in.

“We will be welcoming Tom and Simon to the Coast when they arrive at Terrigal Haven at noon on Friday, November 17, and we want as many people as possible to gather at the boat ramp to let them know we support their efforts,” Weller said.

The Narara Eco Village (NEV) will then be hosting a Net Zero

Expo from 5pm – with community information stalls, a sausage sizzle and a display of electric vehicles.

“The Village wants to welcome the broader community to learn how we can all contribute to net zero solutions on an individual and household level,” NEV spokesperson Tanya Mottle said.

“Then from 6.30pm we have an excellent line-up of speakers including Dr Liam Phelan from the University of Newcastle, who will speak on the need for urgent cuts to emissions.

Dr Simon Leslie and Tom Hunt

“Tom Hunt will also be speaking about his journey and why he and Simon have decided to Sail 4 Sanity.

“The Expo will explain the best options for emissions reductions, solar installations, the smart grid power system at the Ecovillage (which includes a community battery) and the influence of the media on the climate crisis.

“There will be a panel session for questions after the presentations.”

On Saturday, November 18, from 11am there will be a Kayak for Climate on Brisbane

Water.

Community members are encouraged to bring their kayak and a picnic rug for a casual paddle and a chance to meet the visiting sailors.

Finally, on Sunday, November 19, the kayaking grandfathers will arrive at Cabbage Bay near Norah Head where they will be holding a discussion with two local doctors from Future Sooner about the health impacts of nearby coal-fired power stations.

They will come ashore at the boat ramp at Cabbage Tree Bay at 2pm.

Future Sooner spokesperson De Newton said it would be a unique opportunity for members of the public to hear three doctors talking about their experiences and concerns.

“The communities of Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast have been living with the health consequences of coalfired power stations for 50 years – asthma, cancer clusters, contaminated waterways and air pollution,” she said.

“It will be a refreshing opportunity for the community to hear directly from health experts about what needs to be done to save our children and grandchildren from the double whammy of health crisis and climate crisis.”

As the Central Coast bids farewell to the sailors on Sunday, November 19, the community groups involved hope their stay on the Central Coast will have been a catalyst for community education and activation towards nailing net zero.

Fashion parade raises $1,100 for disadvantaged Deepwater Older Women’s Network (OWN), Woy Woy, has raised more than $1,000 for Central Coast charities at a Spring/Summer Fashion Parade held on November 4 in conjunction with Sarongs Ladies Fashion of Ettalong Beach.

The sold-out event was held at the Umina Beach CWA Hall and money raised will help hungry, homeless and

disadvantaged people on the Central Coast through Mary Mac’s, Care4Coast and Allawah House, a refuge for homeless women over the age of 55 who have been victims of domestic and family violence.

“The event started at 2pm with guests signed in and given a glass of bubbly to set the mood,” a spokesperson said.

“At 2.30pm we got the party started with a couple of tap

dancing numbers performed by the Madeline Stephenson Troupe to everyone’s delight.

“The MC, Deepwater OWN Secretary Jennifer Brown, introduced Deepwater OWN Co-ordinator Genelle Solomon, who welcomed everyone and spoke about our chosen benefactors Mary Mac’s, Care4Coast and Allawah House.

“The models, Barbara

Stoddart, Mary Clark, Josephine Gann, Gay Smith and Lynn Jones, were adorned in stylish clothing for all occasions.

“Sarongs proprietor Leanne Kowalczyk, daughter Jemma and friend managed the back room professionally.

“At the conclusion of the fashion parade, guests enjoyed a sumptuous afternoon tea provided by Deepwater OWN Executive Committee.

“Genelle Solomon gave a vote of thanks to all.”

“Sarongs then brought in a couple of clothes racks for the ladies to sift through and also donated five $20 gift certificates for lucky attendees and 10 per cent off sales to attendees over the next fortnight.

“Around 3.30pm, the lucky door prize was drawn followed by the raffles with eight beautiful prizes

won by lucky ticket buyers.

“The five Sarong gift certificates were then drawn along with a special hairdressing voucher donated

by Umina Hair and Beauty.”

The event raised $1,100 for Mary Mac’s, Care4Coast and Allawah House.

The group’s next event will be a Christmas Raffle on December 13 and 14 adjacent Kmart at Deepwater Plaza.

PAGE 6

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Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Council continues to support the Coast’s Surf Life Savers

Council has presented a cheque for $116,000 to Surf Life Saving Central Coast (SLSCC) as part of their sponsorship partnership with us. This is in addition to $6,500 individual sponsorships to each of the 15 Surf Life Saving Clubs across the Coast.

The $213,500 total financial contribution was the second instalment of the two-year sponsorship and will be used to purchase vital rescue equipment and support the promotion of important aquatic safety messaging across the region this summer season.

Council and SLSCC work tirelessly to ensure locals and visitors to the Coast’s world-class beaches feel safe and supported by our high-quality lifesaving services available.

Last year, SLSCC and its 15 surf clubs delivered over 93,373 patrolling hours, completed 614 rescues and responded to more than 46 support operational rescues and callouts and delivered seven community rip demonstrations – a huge effort by all involved.

Council is proud to be supporting SLSCC Volunteer Lifesavers and their invaluable contribution to community safety, and this funding will continue to keep these safety measures in place and help to continue to foster its growth.

More improvements to popular park

2024 Central Coast Youth Week Award nominations

In this next stage of works, we will be replacing more of the existing crushed granite surfaces in and around the BBQ areas with concrete, as well as installing shade sails over the picnic tables either side of the BBQs.

Plus, there are three new awards including the First Nations Cultural Award, the updated Social Impact in Education / Community Award and Environment and Ethical Sustainability Award.

Work is underway to further improve the usability of Gosford Leagues Club Park.

Find out more under ‘Council News’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/news

Choose from 11 categories and shine a spotlight on a remarkable young Coastie who is making a difference.

Nominate by Sunday 25 February 2024 by searching ‘young people’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

New guide so everyone can enjoy beach life

Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline works underway

The brochure profiles 10 Central Coast beaches and includes information on accessibility features such as beach matting, free beach wheelchair hire, nearby public transport and accessible toilets.

The project involves extending the Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline to allow an additional 18ML per day transfer from Hunter Water to be distributed into our water network via Tuggerah reservoir.

We have developed an Accessible Beach Guide so people living with a disability, and access challenges, can easily plan and enjoy a trip to a Central Coast beach.

Read more by searching ‘accessibility and inclusion’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

The Horizontal Directional Drilling section of the pipeline, under the existing sludge lagoons at the Mardi Water Treatment Plant, is almost complete with the new section of the pipe instillation to be commissioned during mid-2024.

For more information search ‘capital works’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Next Council meeting will be held at Wyong on Tuesday 28 November.

Search ‘council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s on

Did you know?

Garage Sale Trail on this weekend

The Entrance North terns into a nesting site

It’s Australia’s biggest pre-loved treasure hunt and the ultimate guilt-free shopping fix that’s kind on the planet and your pocket.

Across the weekend of 18 and 19 November.

Plan your trail by visiting garagesaletrail.com.au/centralcoast

Our crews have begun their weekly monitoring keeping an eye on our annual visitors.

Every year the Little Terns migrate from East Asia to set up camp on Karagi Point to nest; and our staff are on hand to ensure they have another successful breeding season!

So far, we have counted 200 breeding adults arrive on shore.

To find out more seach ‘protecting our Little Terns’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council Office 2 Hely St Wyong | 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday | P 02 4306 7900 | W centralcoast.nsw.gov.au CentralCoastCouncil

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Hundreds attend Remembrance Day services Hundreds of residents attended Remembrance Day services all over the Central Coast, from the Woy Woy Peninsula to the northern reaches of the region on Saturday, November 11.

Central Coast District Council of RSLs President Greg Mawson said most services were well attended, although numbers were a little down on previous years.

“The usual Services such as Doyalson, The Entrance, Toukley, Gosford and the Vietnam Veterans Service on the waterfront at Ettalong saw good numbers of people come to pay their respects to those who paid the supreme sacrifice in World War 1,” Mawson said.

“It must be remembered that Remembrance Day is not exclusive to World War 1, but all subsequent wars, skirmishes and conflicts that have occurred since the ‘War to end all Wars’.

“It was particularly pleasing to see the younger generations attending these Remembrance

From left: The Toukley service was well attended; Gosford RSL Sub-Branch Vice President Derek Crawford, Sub-Branch President and Central Coast District Council of RSLs President Greg Mawson and Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid at the Gosford service

Day services and taking part (where possible) in the proceedings of the day.

“This year we were blessed with a beautiful day; sunny but not overbearing.

“Most sub-branches invited those attending their individual services back to their local club to reminisce with those who have served in modern times.

“These ex-servicemen and women are the future of keeping traditions like Anzac Day and Remembrance Day

alive for the future generations to appreciate.

“Pre- COVID, Services such asAnzac Day and Remembrance Day were seeing a surge in the number of the younger generation attending.

“This will keep the memory of those who gave their lives so that we may enjoy the freedoms today alive.”

Mawson said many wreath layers on Remembrance Day 2023 were younger people, a pleasing indicator that such an

important day would not “fade away into history”.

“The RSL movement here on the Central Coast would like to thank those who attended the various services as we now look towards the celebration of Anzac Day 2024,” he said.

At the Toukley service, more than 150 people attended – 50 per cent of them veterans attached to the branch.

Also attending were Pastor Don Hobbs from Marine Rescue, Warnervale School

Choir, Wallarah Community Band and Toukley Pipes and Drums.

VIP wreath layers included Colleen Michael for Member for Wyong David Harris and Theresa Lancaster on behalf Member for Dobell Emma McBride.

Toukley Sub Branch President Ian Collier was MC, Sub Branch Secretary Judith Walker presented the Remembrance Address and 236 Army Cadet Unit and Australian Cadet Corps

were Guards of Honor and Flag Bearers.

A spokesperson said organisers had expected attendance to be down, with many families committed to sporting activities and other activities on a Saturday.

At Terrigal Beach up to 300 people gathered to honour our servicemen and women, with around 50 kicking on at Breakers Country Club.

Around 150 people attended the Doyalson service, which was followed by some light refreshments and finger food.

Sub-branch President Bob Dokter said in keeping up with this years’ theme, ‘Remember to Remember’, the sub-branch would host a high tea for the widows of veterans on Thursday, November 16.

“We often pause to remember our veterans; however it is equally, if not more, important to acknowledge the contributions of a veteran’s loved ones,” he said.

Harry’s community service celebrated For over 14 years Harry Johnston-Lord religiously recorded daily rainfall figures from the Warnervale home he shared with his wife Helen.

It was an interest that would go on to help many hundreds of motorists in Warnervale who needed to know if the notorious Minnesota Rd would be passable or closed due to flooding.

Sadly, Johnston-Lord passed away on October 26 aged 80 after a short illness.

His wife of over 56 years, Helen, said his interest in recording rainfall figures had started around the late 1960s.

“It was just an interest, and then he got really into it,” she said.

“He just kept it going.”

However, on the Central Coast, those daily rainfall figures became important, as he discovered after getting involved with a Facebook group called Fix Our Roads.

The group was formed to lobby the local council and State Government to fix the roads around Warnervale where housing had boomed but supporting infrastructure had not.

“Initially some people asked why all the reports on rainfall, but people were looking at it to see if they could get through Minnesota Rd,” Helen Johnston-Lord said.

One community member behind the Fix Our Roads group, Sue Coleman, said the

Harry Johnston-Lord with his much loved dog Petra

members looked forward to reading his information.

“He recorded the daily rainfall statistics which he shared on a monthly basis to our community group,” she said.

“We also eagerly awaited Harry to put us in the know when we had an ad hoc crazy rain event or thunderstorms.

“Our success in achieving road upgrades was a result of

community involvement which Harry and Helen were very much the heart of.

“Our community misses Harry dearly and our thoughts are with Helen and family.”

Born in 1943 at Port Kembla, Johnston-Lord trained to be a fitter and turner, firstly at HMAS Platypus (torpedo factory) and later at Garden Island, but didn’t really enjoy this work.

He instead studied to be screen printer and went on to teach screen printing at Hunter’s Hill and other evening colleges.

He had a great interest in art, including pencil sketches and water colours, and worked with leather, often in miniature, as well as constructing and painting

traditional Japanese kites.

He was an excellent photographer, had a life-long interest in Egypt and steam locomotives and an interest in all things military.

He volunteered with Norah Head Marine Rescue as a radio operator and was a Justice of the Peace for many years.

However, his main passion was Rookwood Cemetery where he was a member of the Friends of Rookwood for 30 years and a tour guide for over 20 years.

A celebration of his life will be held at the 1st Wyong Scout Hall in Levitt St Wyong on November 21 from 11am.

Denice Barnes

Gratitude for Pearl Beach Rural Fire Service Pearl Beach residents and friends are being encouraged to attend a community afternoon tea to thank the Pearl Beach Rural Fire Service team.

The afternoon tea will be held at the Pearl Beach Progress Association Hall on Saturday, November 18, at 3pm.

Those attending will also have the opportunity to meet the newly appointed RFS president Andrew Leigh and members of the brigade.

Organisers ask attendees to bring a plate to share while tea and coffee will be provided.

“This is a great chance for everyone to get to know our local crew and what they actually do,” Pearl Beach Progress Association spokesperson Lynne Lillico said.

Bush fires were a major concern for the early settlers in Pearl Beach.

The formation of a brigade to fight bush fires came very early and for many years was a significant reason for the continuing existence of the progress association which formed in 1929.

In the early days the only water available for firefighting

Help say thank you to the Rural Fire Service team

was the water in the creeks, springs and wells and in private water tanks.

Mostly the firefighters cleared fire breaks using shovels, axes, hoes, mattocks and tried to

beat out encroaching flames with green boughs cut from the trees, or beaters made of canvas or hessian attached to pieces of wood and fitted with handles.

These beaters were soaked in water where possible to make them more effective and were later supplemented by knapsack sprays.

The fire brigade was composed entirely of local volunteers who lived in the valley or were visiting for the summer holidays.

At the first sign of a fire, an alarm was sounded summoning volunteers to gather, and as

there were not many vehicles available to transport them, some firefighters came on bicycles and others on foot.

“We now fortunately have well equipped vehicles and a support network, but we always need more,” Lillico said.

“The Pearl Beach Rural Fire Brigade, and all brigades, hold a special place in our lives, a place that we should as a community be proud of and support, and one that we appreciate every day.”

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Care for lighthouse still runs in the family

Norah Head Reserve Community Liaison Group held its first meeting on November 9

When it comes to understanding the significance of the iconic Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve to the local community, Matthew Smith and Jacki Lamphee simply think back to childhood.

They are both direct descendants of two of the previous lighthouse keepers at Norah Head, and put up their hands to join the Norah Head Reserve Community Liaison Group, which held its first meeting at the lighthouse on November 9.

The group was established by experienced Crown Land Manager Reflections, appointed in July 2023 by the NSW Government as the new caretaker of Norah Head

Lighthouse Reserve, which includes the lighthouse, three accommodation cottages and the nature reserve.

There are 14 members in the group including nine Norah Head locals and volunteers as well as representatives from Crown Lands and local government.

It will enable community input and two-way communication regarding the management of the lighthouse and reserve.

For Jacki Lamphee, who lived in one of the cottages in the early 1980s when her father John Byles was assistant lighthouse keeper, the reserve holds special memories.

“Dad worked there until I was

about 10 and my friends would always say it was so fun visiting our house – it felt like we were living in the middle of nowhere, but it was great,” she said.

“We used to come home from school and run down to the beach and swim and play and have free rein there.”

Matthew Smith’s great grandfather, Clifford, worked for more than three decades as a lighthouse keeper, the last 12 years of his career at Norah Head.

Smith’s father, Ted, also lived in one of the Norah Head lighthouse keeper’s cottages with his grandfather Clifford, in the early 1960s following the death of his mum.

He recently learnt that his

Matthew Smith and Jacki Lamphee

grandfather William (Bill) Smith was also a lighthouse keeper at Norah Head from 1966-1968 as a relief keeper.

Meanwhile, his great, great grandfather, William Smith Senior (Clifford’s father) was a lighthouse keeper at Norah Head twice – in 1905-1907 as assistant, then in 1922-1927 as head keeper.

Smith says Norah Head Lighhouse Reserve is unique because of its access to the community and he and his family visit regularly.

“It’s just amazing, and I was talking to Dad about it, that there are so few lighthouses today that are so publicly accessible,” he said.

“You can go to Norah Head

and have a picnic, or stay there and go to a concert, whereas so many other lighthouses are remote.

“To have that iconic location that is so beautiful and be able to go into the lighthouse and look at the photographs and the art deco tiles then climb up the stairs and look up and down the coast – it’s just magical.”

Smith said it was “emotional, humbling and special” to visit the lighthouse and see black and white photographs of his great grandfather on display.

Executive Director of Land and Asset Managementat Crown Lands, Greg Sullivan, said it was an asset to have Smith and Lamphee join the Community Liaison Group.

“We have gathered a group of people with different professional and life experiences, but they all share a passion to continue to maintain and nurture the reserve for the continued use of the NSW public and local communities,” he said.

Reflections is a Crown Land Manager which cares for more than 9,712ha of land belonging to the NSW public with 94 per cent being nature reserve and the remainder being where its holiday parks operate in coastal and inland NSW. Reflections is the only holiday park group in Australia that is a certified social enterprise and it reinvests profit back into the land in its care.

More funnel-web sacs needed In a video not for the fainthearted, the Australian Reptile Park has released extraordinarily rare footage capturing the opening of an egg sac, containing over 100 Sydney funnel-web spiderlings bursting from within.

With funnel-web spider season in full swing, the Park has seen an increase in spider donations from the public.

The egg sac featured in the video was handed in by a member of the public to support the Park’s funnel-web spider antivenom program.

Sacs often hatch between 50 and 150 spiderlings, making a wonderful source of healthy, robust spiders to

contribute to the program.

Now hatched, these spiderlings will be raised at the Park until they reach maturity.

Once mature, their venom will be utilised to produce lifesaving antivenom.

With this successful hatching of a donated egg sac, the Park is renewing an urgent call for more egg sacs to be handed in while breeding season is at its peak.

Park Director Liz Gabriel said 150 male spiders were needed to produce one vial of antivenom.

They have a short lifespan of about 12 months after they reach maturity, leaving a small timeframe to be able to extract the venom.

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

More than 100 spiderlings burst from just one sac

For over four decades, the Australian Reptile Park has been at the forefront of the antivenom program, being the sole supplier of funnel-web spider venom to make the

antivenom in Australia.

The Park is encouraging responsible adults to safely collect any funnel-web spiders and egg sacs they may come across and take them to the

Australian Reptile Park or their nearest participating spider drop off locations.

They also warn that breeding season is at its peak with a higher possibility of the spiders ending up in houses or residential gardens.

Backyards containing dense leaf matter, scrap material or simply backing onto bushland, make for the perfect environment for funnel-webs to burrow and safely breed.

“It’s important that Australians are across the correct first aid and know how to safely catch the spiders so that we can continue to extract their venom and save lives,” Gabriel said.

“During the collection of funnel-web spiders or their egg

sacs, it’s important to wear enclosed shoes and use a longhandled spoon to maintain a safe distance between yourself and the spider at all times.

“The spider or egg sac can then be carefully guided into a large jar with a lid and brought into the Australian Reptile Park or your nearest drop-off location.”

If bitten, it is important to stay as calm as possible and apply the correct first aid with a pressure immobilisation bandage and get to hospital as fast as you possibly can.

To find your nearest spider drop-off location, go to: www. reptilepark.com.au/animalsat-the-australian-reptile-park/ venom-program/spider-dropoff-points

Guide dogs to be at Kanwal market day

Guide dog Dasher

The Guide Dogs Central Coast Volunteer Support Group will hold a fundraising stall at the Her Cave market day at Kanwal on Saturday, November 18, from 9am-2pm.

The group formed in 1983 at an afternoon tea organised by head office at the Long Jetty RSL Club.

Ever since, volunteers have

been active in fundraising in the surrounding areas from The Entrance to the Peninsula.

The group continues to be visual in the community, managing a number of fundraising stalls each year at shopping centres across the Central Coast with members available to share their experiences with visitors and discuss how Guide Dogs

provides free services to help people with impaired vision.

“We look forward to participating in this special market day managed by Her Cave,” Central Coast Guide Dogs President Merran Rudder said. “(It is) an accredited community based non-profit charity where women are encouraged to come together

and enjoy creating things and sharing their skills, “Our fundraising stall will have a variety of Guide Dogs merchandise that will make great Christmas gifts – come along and say hello to members of our dedicated volunteer support group.”

The market day will be held at the Kanwal Community Hall in Pearce Rd.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Free microchipping Central Coast Council, in partnership with its contractor SoCares, will offer pet microchipping free of charge at SoCares facilities in Pateman Rd, Erina, and Depot Rd, Charmhaven, from 9am3pm on Saturday, 18.

Residents can also have their registration details updated and access responsible pet ownership advice, educational material and free products.

Cenotaph upgrade Toukley RSL Sub-Branch will receive $10,000 towards the refurbishment of its cenotaph as part of the State Government’s $37.2M Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

The sub-branch celbrates its 75th anniversary this year and the cenotaph has the ashes interred of 431 veterans from Toukley RSL Sub-Branch.

For more on these stories visit our website.

See front page for QR code and URL.

Bensville mum pushes for childcare reform Bensville mother of one, Jess Coulson, has launched an e-petition in the NSW Legislative Assembly sponsored by Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, calling on the NSW Government to take action to resolve the childcare crisis.

The e-petition calls on the NSW Government to take steps to increase funding and resources to expand childcare facilities, facilitate the hiring of more early childhood educators which will work to reduce early childhood waiting list.

Coulson said the childcare situation on the Central Coast was dire and required urgent attention, with waitlists in the region stretching beyond a staggering two years.

“Families are being advised to apply to upwards of 20 early childcare centres within a 60-minute travel radius for a chance in securing childcare,” she said.

“It is incredibly disheartening being told you’re on a waitlist behind at least 400 other families.

“It makes you think, what is the point?”

Coulson said the crisis was having devastating

consequences on local families.

“Families are being forced to make difficult decisions around delaying their return to work or giving up their jobs entirely to care for their children,” she said.

“It greatly impacts the financial stability of many households and is placing undue stress on parents and caregivers who are left in a constant state of anxiety and frustration as they struggle to secure safe and reliable childcare services.

“One of the leading causes of this crisis is the considerable shortage of early childhood educators.

“This means childcare centres are unable to function at full capacity, playing a major role in the placement shortages.

“There needs to be more funding urgently to support the centres in hiring more educators so they can take on more children and open more centres.”

Crouch acknowledged the difficulties of accessing childcare facilities on the Central Coast.

“On top of an already strained childcare sector, we have seen a massive increase in families with young children choosing

Jess Coulson has launched an e-petition in the NSW Legislative Assembly

to call our region home requiring early childcare services,” he said.

“Speaking with Jess on the issues facing her family, it’s clear that we still need to take greater steps to level-up our childcare sector and alleviate the pain families across the Central Coast are feeling.”

Crouch said the former Coalition government was committed to improving early childhood education in the state, passing landmark childcare reforms in 2022 to enable access to cheaper, high-quality childcare but there

was still more work to do.

“Even with the passing of these landmark reforms, we are still seeing childcare staff shortages due to the rate of the Children’s Services Award,” he said.

“I’m pleased that the Fair Work Commission announced a 5.75 per cent increase in the Children’s Services Award, but we still need to make early childcare an attractive career choice to help alleviate staffing issues.”

While landmark reforms have been passed, Crouch and Coulson say the NSW

Government has a responsibility to do more.

“Speaking with many parents in the community, there is a huge call to subsidise other childcare resources such as nannies until we have access to more placements in childcare facilities, as the cost is debilitating for households,” Coulson said.

“There is no unified structure or process to the current waitlist situation, with advice from parents in the community that have secured a placement being to harass the centres by calling every day.

“This is a ridiculous amount of administration for both the primary caregivers and childcare centre staff.”

Coulson said the petition had received an overwhelmingly positive response, attracting more than 800 signatures in the first five days.

“However, we still have a way to go and urge members of our community to come forward and sign so we can get the funding required,” she said.

To sign the petition, visit https://www.parliament.nsw. gov.au/la/Pages/epetitionslist.aspx and search for Central Coast Child Care situation

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National safety award for Red Bus

NEWS IN BRIEF

Trivia night Claws ‘N’ Paws will hold a trivia night at Grill’d West Gosford, 299 Brisbane Water Dr, at 6 pm on Tuesday, November 28.

For bookings, call 4325 5927.

Medical centre boost The Saratoga Medical Centre has received $25,000 from the Federal Government’s Strengthening Medicare – General Practice Grants Program to update its IT systems.

Centre General Manager Claudine Restom said the grant funding was a boost for the general practice.

“The grant has been beneficial in helping us … stay on the cutting edge of technology,” she said.

“Updating all our IT systems has given us an additional layer of cyber security.

For more on these stories visit our website.

See front page for QR code and URL.

Red Bus driver Stephen O’Brien with the School Safety Bus

Red Bus Services has taken out the 2023 Safety Award at the recent Bus Industry Association’s national conference in Adelaide.

The award was presented to Managing Director John Shore on October 30.

Sponsored by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, the award recognises bus companies which put the safety of their passengers first and is awarded to eligible bus operators across the country.

Red Bus, which has operated

out of Bateau Bay for many years, became eligible for consideration for the national award after receiving the safety award from BusNSW, the State Bus and Coach Association earlier in October.

The citation from BusNSW said the recipient of the Safety Award puts safety at the heart of its culture.

“Red Bus (has) been at the forefront of innovative safety programs for their drivers, mechanics and the travelling public,” it said.

“For two decades … Red Bus

Staff with the company’s Hydrogen Bus

has delivered a renowned School Bus Safety Program to schools in their area.

“Designed for preschoolers … infants … and Year 6 students entering high school, … the program emphasises road safety through the Stop, Look, and Listen technique.

“The Know your Bus campaign brings drivers and mechanics together in a social setting and helps drivers to understand the maintenance process and the challenges faced by mechanics in ensuring safe and efficient buses.

“To improve safety for drivers … the Stay Safe program teaches drivers to avoid and defuse potentially violent situations.

“Their 24 hour Back to Base CCTV displays a live feed when a driver presses the duress button … enabling Operations to view what is occurring and … if needed … to call for back-up.

“To assist public safety, the company has installed Mobileye on 25 per cent of its fleet.

“This technology alerts

drivers when pedestrians, … cyclists and motorcyclists enter the vehicle’s blind spot.

“This year Red Bus participated in a Zero Emission Bus trial with Transport for NSW and several partners that posed some unique challenges and required the company to develop robust safety procedures specifically tailored to working with ‘hydrogen’.

“These are just a few of the innovative safety programs introduced.”

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Alyssa Pratt and Joel Smeaton with the Health on the Streets van

Health on the Streets has launched its Christmas Appeal aimed at bringing joy and comfort to those in the Central Coast community who are facing challenging circumstances during the holiday season.

The appeal is more than just a campaign; it’s an opportunity for all residents to come together, make a real impact and share the true spirit of giving with those who need it the most.

Every gift donated, regardless of its size, will contribute to making this Christmas brighter for those in need.

Gifts can be dropped off at the Coast & Country Primary Care Erina office at 167B The Entrance Rd on weekdays between 8.30am to 5pm until

Friday, December 8.

The dedicated team of nurses and outreach workers from Health on the Streets will deliver the donated gifts directly to homeless and vulnerable individuals, between December 11 and 17.

Health on the Streets takes healthcare to vulnerable people on the Central Coast.

These individuals often face a range of barriers to accessing basic healthcare services, such as going to a GP. The team is committed to ensuring all people have a right to basic healthcare, safety and dignity and provides a range of support and services to those doing it tough.

Health on the Streets is delivered from a medical clinic

van which regularly visits community hubs or drives around the community seeking people in need.

It is staffed by healthcare professionals and outreach workers who offer immediate support to vulnerable people on the Central Coast.

Health on the Streets also links with other providers of housing and community services to offer as much support as possible.

For more information about the Health on the Streets Christmas Appeal, including details on how to participate or donate, go to healthonthestreets.org.au/ christmasappeal

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POLICE BRIEFS Theft at Gorokan supermarket Seven times over limit A 46-year-old woman has been suspended from driving after being caught driving seven times over the alcohol limit.

Tuggerah Lakes Highway Patrol arrested the woman in Marks Rd, Gorokan, at about 6.45pm on Friday, November 10, following several complaints from the community about the way a red Volkswagen Golf was being driven.

Police located the vehicle and spoke with the female driver who

they allege was clearly well intoxicated with a roadside breath test returned a positive result.

The woman was arrested and taken to Wyong Police Station where she provided a breath analysis reading of 0.356.

She was entered into custody, had her licence immediately suspended, and was bailed to appear before Wyong Local Court with conditions imposed to not to occupy the driver seat of any motor vehicle.

Mountain bike ride fatality A man has died while on a mountain bike ride at Mangrove Mountain over the weekend.

On Sunday, November 12, at about 11:30am emergency services were called to Dubbo Gully Rd, Mangrove Mountain, after reports of concern for the welfare of a 66-year-old man.

Toll Rescue Helicopter attended the medical emergency to assist NSW

Ambulance paramedics who treated the man, but he died at the scene.

Officers attached to Brisbane Water Police District attended and were told the man was participating in a group bike ride at the time.

An investigation into the incident has commenced and a report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Further information on these On the Beat stories and much more can be read on our website.

Scan the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/on-the-beat

Officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District are calling for community assistance in the investigation of a stealingrelated matter from a supermarket in Gorokan.

At about 1.05pm on Wednesday, August 30,

numerous items were removed from an IGA supermarket in the Gorokan area.

Pictures obtained from CCTV footage depict a person who might be able to assist police with their investigation.

Anyone who knows about this incident, or recognises or knows the person depicted in the footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or nsw.crimestoppers. com.au and quote the Police Report No. E 79116173.

CCTV footage

Search for good Samaritan surfer after scuba death Police are appealing for help to find a mystery surfer who pulled an injured man from the water at Terrigal last month.

The 51-year-old man died a few days later in hospital and detectives are now preparing a report for the Coroner.

At about 5.45pm on Friday, October 20, emergency services were called to The Haven, following reports of a man unconscious in the water.

Police were told the man was scuba diving with a friend before the weather changed and they returned to shore.

The man attempted to climb on to the rocks when he was hit by a large wave causing him to

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slip and hit his head, falling back into the water.

An unknown member of the public entered the water on his surfboard and retrieved the man before bringing him to shore, where CPR was performed until the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics.

The man was airlifted by Westpac Rescue Helicopter to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition; however, police were notified that he died in hospital a few days later.

Detectives attached to Brisbane Water Police District are investigating the matter on

Westpac Rescue Helicopter landing at Terrigal last month to assist the scuba diver

behalf of the Coroner and are asking for the community to assist in identifying the surfer who came to the man’s aid, as he may be able to assist with their inquiries.

As inquiries continue, anyone with information is urged to contact Gosford Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw. crimestoppers.com.au

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Ramps needed at East Bateau Bay shops Community battery a good thing

While some stairs to the local reserve at Bateau Bay are taken down, others are never removed.

The original buildings at the local shopping village have never changed.

The shops at East Bateau Bay are difficult to access for people

with mobility issues, parents with strollers and the general public.

Shops require managing stairs to gain entry.

This includes a doctor’s surgery, chemist and Beauty Boutique which assists with skin and body wellness.

Some owners have provided a small grab rail attached to the brick wall, which is difficult to navigate.

There should be ramped access for everyone to provide easy entry to local shops.

When the local MP was asked about the problems of access and the possibility of ramped

entry, the answer was not clear.

Apparently these buildings are privately owned and do not have to comply with disability access standards on the coast.

There needs to be some clarity on this issue.

Email, Nov 13 Marilyn Zaia, Bateau Bay

Real reason for dead birds Having had a bit to do with Mutton Birds (Short-Tailed Shearwaters) I feel I must respond to an article on the deaths of these creatures as printed last week in your newspaper (CCN415).

In my opinion these birds are not succumbing to our weather as reported.

This has been nothing and is ever nothing compared to the

elements they fly in below Tasmania and New Zealand or Alaska and the Siberian Coast as they migrate.

And in my opinion it certainly has nothing to do with changes in water temperature, where these birds cross the equator twice a year.

A shortage of food – sardines, whitebait, pilchards etc- is the prime reason for this event and

is nothing new (although) perhaps we haven’t seen it this bad for several years.

But it has been worse.

Any local ocean fisho will tell you how desperate these birds are for a feed – it’s almost impossible to drop a baited hook in the water without them attacking it.

They will dive down more than 10m to get your bait and

sometimes won’t let it go even if not hooked.

It is almost pointless to try to rescue these migratory birds when they appear sick on the beach.

The only thing you can do is leave a bit of fish beside them and hope they might eat it after you leave.

Email, Nov 13 Campbell Black, North Entrance

Beware cost of renewables Although Telstra has the most wide-ranging mobile coverage, I was surprised to hear that Optus has about 11 million customers – about half the population.

Lots of people were

inconvenienced on November 8.

Imagine what an outage of electricity could do to you?

If they close Eraring (power station) in 2025 as planned, get ready for blackouts which will

affect nearly everything you do as well as increased costs.

The authorities will blame it on the price of fish in inner Mongolia, or anything else they think you might believe.

Renewables are not cheap; I

am happy to provide evidence

It’s good to see that Narara has installed trusted technology like batteries instead of a dodgy nuclear reactor (Narara community battery switched on, CCN 415).

Who said that the Coast

is not progressive?

I’ll be keeping an eye on this one; as no doubt will the critics of renewable energy.

Email, Nov 13 Dave Horsfall, North Gosford

Parking problems overlooked I was appalled to read the recent letter by Lyn Barnett of Bateau Bay – (Huge fine uncalled for, CCN 410).

It highlights the deaf and dumb attitude of bureaucracy.

Most of us are law abiding citizens like Ms Barnett.

Yet, occasionally, circumstances force us into an action which might be considered illegal, but not in the realm of common sense.

Parking problems, especially for senior citizens and the disabled, are understated and overlooked.

My husband, who is 78, cannot ever find parking to collect our mail from Terrigal post office since the parking spaces have been limited.

I am not sure if there is a solution.

Email, Oct 14 Nalini Padmanabhan, Terrigal

from outside our insular islandcontinent (showing that).

Email, Nov 8

Read more Forum and much more can be read on our website.

Scan the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum

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Big weekend at Fun Haus Factory Donne Restrom

Just a month after its launch, the Coast’s newest funky Arts Bar the Fun Haus Factory has already established itself as an eclectic and vibrant space bringing contemporary arts, live music and culture to the region each week.

The new venue in Gosford offers everything from contemporary live music every Sunday to touring cabarets and

theatre on Fridays, resident DJs on Saturdays and locals nights on Thursdays with cheap eats.

This Friday, November 17, will see a global music treat with Hot Sauce, a Family friendly DJ Event with tacos, cheap drinks and a focus on contemporary sounds from across the planet with genres steaming from the Reggaeton, hip hop and Latin pop to Baile funk, Bossa Nova

and Afro Latin House tilting right through to Dancehall, Bollywood, Kuduro and beyond.

Saturday brings the already popular weekly Dogs on the Deck dog-friendly afternoon.

Dog owners are encouraged to take their pooches for a walk in Kibble Park and then drop in for cold bevy and a Mexican dinner on the deck from 5pm7pm (happy hour from 5pm with $10 cocktails) before the

Have a musical adventure with Nicky Bomba A Musical Adventure with Nicky Bomba will be presented by Central Coast Ukulele Club on Tuesday, November 21.

Bomba will run a ukulele workshop from 6pm to 7pm, followed by a concert at 7.30pm at the Naughty Noodle Fun Haus in Gosford as part of the Tubular Festival program.

Maltese-born, Bomba is an Australian musician and singersongwriter.

He has built a solid reputation in the music industry via many projects including writing and performing with his bands Nicky Bomba and the New Shangos, Bomba and the ARIA nominated Bustamento.

He has conducted the multiARIA award-winning Melbourne Ska Orchestra and played drums for the John Butler Trio, as well as guesting with many other artists.

A vibrant performer, he brings his knowledge and enthusiasm from working with artists from Africa and the Middle East to the Caribbean.

Bomba is committed to creating a sense of community and unity whenever he plays and it is not uncommon for him to go off on

Nicky Bomba

some magical tangent to really connect with an audience.

“I’m always aware of the active energy of a crowd,” he said.

“Believing in the moment and kind of steering that spontaneous beast can result in something really special – absolute positive vibrations.”

He will be supported by Bec Pap, who has been writing songs since she was eight years old and been a professional musician for more than a decade She has an angelic yet soulful voice which tells beautiful stories through her original songs.

At the workshop, you will learn the basics of the ukulele.

It is open to anyone wanting to

learn, aged 13 and up, regardless of experience.

You will learn some easy chords and how to strum and tune as well as different techniques and tips to make your songs sound great and, importantly, smooth.

BYO uke or hire one thanks to Central Coast Ukulele Club.

The workshop is most suitable for teens and adults.

Spaces are limited, and bookings are essential.

Food and bar service will be available from 7.30pm for the allages concert, although under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets for the workshop and concert are available through Eventbrite.

Central Coast House Music Collective with guest DJs Winston and Ferrero takes you into the evening.

Every Sunday sees free live music with the Sonic Sunday events exploring all music genres from rock, electro, punk, blues and swing to world and folk.

Kicking off from midday for lunch, this week’s event on Sunday, November 19, will

feature Donne Restrom.

The local young musician paints with vocals in broad, impressionistic colours that recall the golden era of jazz vocals as she blends jazz and pop.

Her smoky, evocative voice recalls modern greats like Amy Winehouse, though she is more enamoured with Nina Simone, Anita O’Day and the Mingus Big Band.

Mexican City Street food with Chilangos Hermanos is available Thursday to Saturday for dinner and Sundays for lunch with a fully stocked bar.

All events this coming weekend are free with tickets available at naughtynoodle. com.au/whats-on

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Album launch at Avoca Beach Theatre a familiar trip for Jules For singer/songwriter Jules a performance at Avoca Beach Theatre on November 19 will be personal – very personal.

The Sydney-based artist grew up on the Central Coast and her family, who are still living on the Coast, is sure to be front row at the launch of her latest album, Familiar Drama, named Record of Week recently

by Rolling Stone magazine.

“We will be bringing a full band to Avoca and be supported by a Central Coast local, Ella Powell, who is a star,” Jules said.

“The album is nostalgic and about memories, so I reached

out to Avoca Beach Theatre where I played over 20 years ago, and I am excited to go back.

“It is such a beautiful venue and there will be a lot of family and friends from the Central Coast; I’m still very attached to the Coast.”

Jules – real name Julie Kerr – moved to Sydney in 2002 to start writing, recording and gigging.

Around 2012, personal trauma struck.

“I was having a bad time, I was very sad and just didn’t want to do music anymore,” she said.

“And literally, in the middle of

the night, Jermaine Jackson called and said he really liked my song Papergirl.”

After that phone call, Jackson became a mentor and inspired Jules to write, record, and perform again.

She has been a guest at the Jacksons tour of Australia and Las Vegas and the pair are still in touch.

“He is a fantastic person, a really lovely guy, and I have done another two albums since that first meeting,” she said.

Her new album Familiar Drama was released on November 3.

Recorded at Studios 301, the album is produced by Jules,

Grammy nominated engineer and producer Simon Cohen, and John Lawrie.

Written over four years, Jules described Familiar Drama as an album filled with songs that explore the complexity of grief, redemption, and nostalgia.

It’s her fourth musical project following Ocean in 2003, Voiceless in 2011 and Carry On in 2016.

“The recording of this album has been a slow burn but an ongoing commitment to good craftmanship and artistry,” she said.

Denice Barnes

Jules will launch her album at Avoca Beach Theatre

Thought-provoking Aboriginal art at regional gallery A national touring exhibition featuring new and recent works by influential Aboriginal artists will be on show at Gosford Regional Gallery, East Gosford, from November 18-February 11.

The exhibition, OCCURRENT AFFAIR contains work by the artist collective proppaNOW, which was established in Brisbane in 2003 and is one of Australia’s leading cultural collectives.

Members Vernon Ah Kee, Tony Albert, Richard Bell, Megan Cope, Jennifer Herd, Gordon Hookey and Laurie Nilsen explore the politics of Aboriginal art and culture, rethinking what it means to be a contemporary Aboriginal artist.

Gallery members and the public are invited to the exhibition’s opening night activation on November 17 at 6pm.

It will be hosted by Central Coast Council in partnership with Awesome Black and will feature Richard Bell’s documentary Embassy with an in-conversation chat with trailblazing filmmaker Aunty Maddy McGrady and a performance from 2023 Australian Poetry Slam champion Uncle Rob Waters.

The evening will also see local Elders invited to collaborate with proppaNOW’s Tony Albert in the painting of his artwork Terra Nullius (with Scrooge).

Gallery Director Tim Braham said guests should expect to see art that raises awareness

BOOK REVIEW

with Julie Chessman

Three works of Richard Glover • The Land Before Avocado • Love, Clancy • Best Wishes

Photo: Rhett Hammerton

Some members of proppaNOW (from left): Gordon Hookey, Jennifer Herd, Tony Albert, Megan Cope, Richard Bell and Vernon Ah Kee

of Aboriginal urban expression which depicts a contemporary thought-provoking story.

“The collective dispels the notion that Aboriginal art needs to be from a remote area to be ‘authentic’,” Braham said.

“This is proppaNOW’s first

presentation on the Central Coast.

“Seeing this historically significant movement at Gosford Regional Gallery is an unmissable opportunity for the whole Central Coast and Hunter Region community and visitors.”

Most people living in Australia will no doubt have heard of Richard Glover – radio presenter, journalist and author.

For something a little different we aren’t looking at his media career, and we won’t examine just one of his books but instead take a meandering journey through three of them.

We will go from nostalgia to the depth of love for a dog and finally to a book so full of observational comedy it will make you laugh out loud.

In The Land Before Avocado, Glover takes a journey to an almost unrecognisable Australia.

It’s a vivid portrait of a quite peculiar land; a place that is scary and weird, dangerous and incomprehensible and, now and then, surprisingly appealing – it is the Australia of the late 1960s and early 70s.

This book is largely a brutal attack on the past, challenging us to overcome our nostalgia and instead be optimistic about how the world has changed for the better and

how it might continue to improve.

All of his observations are backed-up by research, anecdotal evidence, valid comparisons and, of course, memory.

It’s sociology at its best – accessible rather than academic, entertaining and substantive; some things made me laugh, many made me cringe and a few brought a tear.

Glover aims by the end to demonstrate that Australia has come a very long way in a short amount of time.

I believe that it’s a timely read and gives hope to Australians who might be feeling despair at where our country is headed.

Another of Glover’s books which is totally unexpected but delightfully received – Love, Clancy – is an hilarious series of letters by the clever Kelpie to his parents in the bush, and reviewed by his new owner, Man. The letters are full of musings and oddities as Kelpie grows from puppy to full-grown dog

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the Central Coast was proud to be included in the national tour and that not only regular art lovers, but also local community groups and schools on the Central Coast, would have the opportunity to engage with it.

“Conceived as a collaborative activist gesture, OCCURRENT AFFAIR connects with current socio-political, economic, and environmental issues, while celebrating Aboriginal culture,” Hart said.

“The exhibition from The University of Queensland Art Museum touring with Museums & Galleries of NSW will reflect on the ongoing situation affecting Aboriginal communities – issues that are relevant to all Australians.

“We are thrilled that the exhibition tour has been made possible with funding from the Australian Government, through the Australia Council of the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body and assisted by Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program.”

The exhibition will be open daily from 9.30am-4pm with free entry.

To RSVP for the opening night event, search East Gosford on the trybooking website.

First Nations visitors are advised that the exhibition may contain images, names, and voices of people who have died.

Permission has been granted from the family for all images and artwork to be shown.

– in reality it is Clancy asking for more attention to be paid to a dog’s view of the world.

Glover turns the torch on the reader in a subtle and very clever way, leaving us asking how we deal with and respect animals.

He also reminds us of Lord Byron’s quote: “Dogs represent all the virtues of man without the vices”.

This is as funny as Avocados, filled with Glover’s usual charm and comedy but with a much deeper purpose.

Glover’s latest foray into authorship, Best Wishes,

expresses 365 wishes for making the world a better place.

Do you think the world would be a better place if people got back their sense of humour?

Here’s proof you are not alone.

Heartfelt and hilarious, serious but sly, Best Wishes is the encyclopedia of ‘can do better’.

It’s a plea for a better world – one wish at a time.

This is why I absolutely cannot wait to see Richard Glover in person on the Central Coast on the November 24.

Central Coast readers can meet the author at a special event – An Evening with Richard Glover – to be held from 6-9pm on Friday, November 24 at the Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy. Tickets are available at The Bookshop Umina or email hello@thebookshop.info They can also be obtained online at www.thebookshop. info or RichardGloverWoyWoy. eventbrite.com

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Last Hoorah for Mountain Growers Market The Mountain Growers Market community in Peats Ridge is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration as they bid farewell to seven years of fruitful business at the Last Hoorah market and antiques auction on the weekend November 18 and 19.

The Last Hoorah Market will be held on November 18-19

It promises to be a weekend filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and the opportunity to bid on charming rustic antiques at a grand farewell auction of the contents of The Barn at 1109 Peats Ridge Rd.

For seven years the Mountain Growers Market has been a staple in the beautiful Central Coast hinterland, bringing together local farmers, artisans, residents, and visitors to the region in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

The final Growers Market runs from 8am to 2pm on Saturday, November 18, and offers the chance for the community to come together one last time to celebrate the market’s success and its impact on local agriculture and commerce.

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November 19.

Hannah Clayton Atkin of Swan Deverell Auctioneers will oversee the lively auction proceedings, commencing promptly at 10am at The Barn, 1109 Peats Ridge Rd, Peats Ridge.

This event is free and open to the public, and everyone is invited to come out and celebrate the legacy of the Mountain Growers Market and the sense of community it has fostered.

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It will present a great opportunity to stock up on the finest locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and more, purchase Christmas gifts from local artisans and craftsmen as they showcase their unique creations and share memories and stories of the Mountain Growers Market over the years.

The Last Hoorah market day is also a wonderful opportunity view the wide variety of rustic collectables, charming antiques, and selection of cafe equipment that will be offered for sale by auction on Sunday,

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Con celebrates 40th anniversary with gala dinner Tickets are now available for Central Coast Conservatorium’s 40th Birthday Gala Dinner on November 23, to be held at the new restaurant Kefi at Koolewong.

It will be an evening of music, song and performances from the Coast’s premier music school.

Guests will be entertained by ABC Classic broadcaster and Sydney Symphony Orchestra Principal Harpist, Genevieve Lang, who will perform a short piece on the harp and share her personal musical journey while highlighting the importance of providing quality music education to every child.

Enjoy arrival drinks and canapes on the deck of the new

Greek-inspired venue and an eight-mezze plate banquet for a night on the waterfront with music, song and performance featuring a Con faculty-inspired showcase with singer and vocal teacher, Michaele Archer and acclaimed guitarist Guy Strazz.

There will also be performances from top students of Central Coast Conservatorium, including 2024 CCCM Scholarship winner and guitarist Jerome Drobot and Central Coast Philharmonia Richard Newton Scholarship recipient, vocalist Mia Cross.

The 40th birthday gala dinner will include a live auction to raise funds to purchase musical instruments for students in the

From left: Vocalist Mia Cross; Harpist Genevieve Lang

CCCM Schools Program, the CCCM music therapy program and other important outreach activities.

Items up for auction include giftware from Georg Jensen, a

Kawai Australia keyboard, wines from Hunter Valley winery Briar Ridge Vineyard and more.

Local businesswoman and Non Executive Director, Claire

Braund, who is President of the Con, said the birthday celebration was an opportunity to pause to celebrate 40 awesome years of inspiring and nurturing many young (and not so young) musicians on the Central Coast.

“The board of the Con welcomes everyone to our celebration, which will be a feast of fine food, wine, performance and song – and support our work into the future,” she said.

Central Coast Conservatorium was established in 1983 as one of the NSW Conservatorium of Music’s Regional Music Centres, teaching classes out of the former Gosford Primary School plumbing workshop.

Over the following five years

student and teacher numbers grew exponentially, and it was clear that a larger, more permanent building was needed.

In 1987 the centre found its new home in the former police station and courthouse in Gosford and in 1993 its name was registered as Central Coast Conservatorium Inc. Forty years on, more than 50 dedicated faculty provide impactful music education for the community in the heritage building’s newly renovated studios and across the region’s schools.

Bookings for the anniversary dinner are available at www. trybooking.com/CMMCO

Blues on the Mountain set to return Two of Australia’s best female blues and soul artists will perform at the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall when Blues on the Mountain returns on Saturday, November 18.

The all-ages family event will feature the Queen of Oceanic Blues and Soul Karen Lee Andrews and her all-star band, plus 2023 Australian Idol finalist Piper Butcher.

Andrews will celebrate the release of her new EP Edin with her powerful vocals.

She has performed at Woodford Folk Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival and

Blues on Broadbeach and supported artists such as Jimmy Barnes and Gregory Porter.

Andrews will be performing on the Central Coast for the first time since 2019 with her band comprising Adam Ventoura and Yanya Boston.

Ventoura is widely regarded as one of Australia’s top bass players as well as an established vocalist, percussionist, composer, music director and producer.

He has played, recorded and toured with an array of worldclass artists and musicians including Kelly Rowland, Al Green, Jon Stevens, Guy

Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy, Stan Walker, Ian Moss, Kate Ceberano, and Vika and Linda Bull.

He has played to audiences in South America, the USA, the UK, Asia, the Middle East and New Zealand.

In a career spanning more than 25 years, Boston has played all over the world.

His work behind the drums has seen him perform with the likes of Tina Arena, Neo, Jesse J, Meghan Trainor, Human Nature, JOY, Thelma Plum, and Ronan Keating to name a few.

Piper Butcher, from Newcastle, was a top 24 finalist

in this year’s Australian Idol.

Her soulful tones are way beyond her years.

She has supported acts such as Kav Temperley (Eskimo Joe), Diesel, Kasey Chambers, You Am I, Robben Ford (USA), Mia Dyson, Ash Grunwald, Russell Morris, Casey Donovan, The Black Sorrows, Thirsty Merc, and The Screaming Jets.

The doors will open at 6pm on Saturday, November 18, with live music from 6.30pm.

Food will be available to purchase or BYO welcome.

Tickets to the event are limited and available at www. trybooking.com/CHXTN

Karen Lee Andrews

PHONE: 4393 0037

All female musical line-up Fade Into You is set to make waves on the Central Coast with an all-female musical experience over two nights this month at Avoca Beach and Mooney Mooney.

The special showcase, organised to celebrate the diversity and talent of women in music, will feature a solo set from internationally acclaimed artist Gordi,whose mesmerising vocals and evocative lyrics have captured hearts around the world.

Gordi is the musical moniker ofAustralian singer-songwriterproducer Sophie Payten, from the tiny agricultural town of Canowindra.

Since her globally acclaimed debut album Reservoir in 2017 and her anticipated 2020 follow-up, Our Two Skins, the ARIA-nominated artist has quickly become one of the most cherished indie/folk songwriters, recognised for her unique and progressive

Headline artist Gordi

approach to her craft, while anchored to a deep connection with traditional songwriting skills.

Gordi has collaborated and performed with international Grammy-nominated artists including Troye Sivan, Bon Iver, members of Sigur Ros, Sam Smith, Julien Baker and Missy Higgins.

Her work has won awards from triple j, FBi Radio, APRA,

PPCA, and the Australia Council for the Arts.

Joining her will be a handpicked line-up of some of the Central Coast’s most talented singer/songwriters, including Tessa Thames, Elaskia, Ella Powell and Scarlett at the Avoca event.

At the Mooney Mooney event she will be joined by Ruby Archer, NEAV, Chloe Louise and Summer Healey.

All acts will be performing in an intimate, stripped-back format.

The show at Avoca on Thursday, November 16, will be a special all-ages, family event, with concession tickets for under 18, and free entry for ages 12 and under.

Fade Into You is not just a concert; it’s a statement of empowerment, showcasing the incredible strength and creativity of female artists.

It will be part of Tubular Festival – the newest music and arts festival on the Central Coast, to run in Gosford and surrounding areas from November 16-26 (see separate story).

Fade Into You will begin at 6pm at Avoca Surf Life Saving Club on Thursday, November 16, and Mooney Mooney Church on Friday, November 117.

For more information email tubularfestival.com

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ACROSS 1. Rush (hour) 4. Shipping route (3,4) 8. Tug sharply 11. Breadth 13. Deep-pitched instruments 15. Fawning creep 17. What?

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(2,3) 27. Light touch 28. Fraudster 30. Preamble 31. Linger 33. Grunts like a pig 34. Salt solution 35. Hot water dispensers 36. Svelte 39. Curled (of smoke) 42. Hunting lure 44. Single entities 45. Rewrote (essay) 46. Profoundly wise 48. Reply 49. Large violin 50. Close (envelope) 52. Monitor 54. ... & that 55. Electroshock weapon 56. Nuns’ garments 57. Clasp 60. Commander

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23. Here 25. Frothed 26. Heavy horned animals 29. Gist 32. Zoo’s physician 35. Lie 37. Fishing spools 38. Travelled by car 40. Overthrow, coup ... (1’4) 41. Shut out 42. Trench 43. Masted vessel 44. Desert spring 47. Japanese hostesses 51. Crime fighters 52. Actor, Orson ...

53. NYC district 54. Glittery Xmas strip 58. Vary 59. See over (1,1,1) 61. Director, Woody ...

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20,000 flock to oyster festival After a three-year absence due to COVID-19, the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival returned on Sunday, November 12, with a massive turnout of more than 20,000 people.

“We were absolutely stunned with the community support for our festival,” Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Event Co-ordinator Debra Wales said.

“It is estimated that more than 20,000 people streamed into Lions Park at Woy Woy to enjoy the food, entertainment and art and craft.

“The Lions Park venue turned out to be a massive success

with plenty of room for all the activities and the huge crowd that filled the park and surrounds.

“The beautiful park on the waterfront was a magnificent setting for the food and wine festival and tasting the famous Sydney Rock oysters grown locally right here on Central Coast with 3,000 dozen consumed in quick time.

“We thank Hawkesbury River Shed and Davo’s Seafood for supplying the oysters, bearing in mind they had a week of closure on the river due to heavy rain.

“It’s always a ‘mother nature

game’ for our local farmers but these two oyster suppliers didn’t let us down.”

Wales said it was the festival’s 23rd year.

“Every year it has grown larger and more successful thanks to the support of our local community and all the visitors who come to the event, many for the first time,” she said.

“Of course the event would not be possible without our sponsors and we are very grateful for their support.

“Jenifer Green from G’day Hollywood Productions did a great job with live on-stage

entertainment including country music band Pure Nashville and rock band Pub Crawl.

“Proving forever popular, 24 contestants lined up for the How Many Oysters Can You Eat in 30 Seconds competition, with the winner consuming 20 oysters.

“The community should be very proud for supporting this Peninsula event which showcases many local talents such as Glampton Shells, who recycles oyster shells into beautiful bespoke creations; we’re very proud of them.”

Winner of round one of the oyster eating competition Chris de Haviland with Mrs Brown from Mrs Browns Boys and Peninsula Chamber of Commerce President Matthew Wales

Rick Price headed for Avoca Beach Australian singer songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Rick Price has released a new EP Wayfaring Stranger to coincide with a national tour that will see him perform at Avoca Beach Theatre on November 18.

Rick Price will be performing at Avoca Beach Theatre as part of his nation tour coinciding with the release of his new EP

Described as a gospel album of covers that span centuries and more recent tunes from the early 20th century, the album includes songs such as Wayfaring Stranger, Amazing Grace, Wade in The Water, and

Will The Circle Be Unbroken.

These have resonated and been covered by legends such as Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Eva Cassidy, Oliva Newton-John, Ray Charles, Ed Sheeran and now Rick Price.

Described as soul stirring, the EP is an uplifting journey with Price’s renditions of some of the most popular gospel tracks ever written.

He recorded and produced Wayfaring Stranger in Nashville with some legendary US musicians including Tom

Bukovac on guitar, Dennis Crouch on bass, Jimmy Wallace on organ/piano and Joshua Hunt on drums.

“I’ll be performing all the songs from my upcoming EP Wayfaring Stranger, a collection of some of my favourite last century gospel songs,” Price said.

“I’ll also be revisiting some of my own hits like Heaven Knows, Not A Day Goes By and River Of Love.”

His debut album Heaven Knows, released in 1992,

peaked at number three on the ARIA albums chart and won song of the year at the APRA music awards.

It provided two top 10 singles, Not a Day Goes By and Heaven Knows.

His second album in 1995,Tamborine Man, contained the single River of Love which peaked at number 18.

Price has worked with numerous artists as a vocalist, songwriter and record producer including Tina Arena, Tommy

Emmanuel, Mitch Grainger, Regine Velasquez and numerous others and recorded a duet album California Dreaming with Jack Jones.

A resident of Nashville, Tennessee, since 2009, Price, who began his career at the age of nine touring with his family band and performing at local bush dances in southern Queensland and northern NSW, said he was looking forward to performing in his homeland.

Source: CCN

Christmas MEMORIAL SERVICE

Saturday 2nd December Commencing at 10am

Hillside Chapel, Palmdale Lawn Cemetery and Memorial Park 57 Palmdale Road, Palmdale.

We invite you to attend a beautiful memorial service with our community to offer comfort and to show that we do not grieve alone.

Our service will include: Music, song, a candle-lighting ceremony, a Christmas ornament with your loved one’s name for you to take home and light refreshments to share. We invite you to bring a photo of your loved one for display during the service.

For further details, please enquire at the office

Phone 4362 1203

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Coast picks up three golds at NSW Tourism Awards Gold award winners from Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific, the Australian Reptile Park and Destination Central Coast | Photo: BusinessNSW

Three Central Coast businesses have taken gold in their categories at the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards for 2023.

Held on November 8 at the White Bay Cruise Terminal Sydney, the awards ceremony saw more than 500 industry representatives gathered to celebrate outstanding tourism businesses, with the Australian Reptile Park, Crowne Plaza Terrigal and Central Coast Council among the category winners.

The awards are managed by the NSW Tourism Industry Council powered by Business NSW, the state’s peak business organisation, and supported by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. “The NSW Tourism Awards celebrate those tourism experiences that inspire visitors to #feelnewsouthwales and recognise those businesses (which) exemplify outstanding tourism experiences,” Business NSW Executive Director, Regional NSW and Visitor Economy, Paula Martin said.

“These businesses provide leadership in innovation, marketing and in the delivery of quality products and services.

“They also advance and promote the NSW and Australian tourism industry through consistent customer service and quality experiences.

“The Central Coast smashed it out of the park with the Reptile Park wining Gold as a Major Tourist Attraction, Crown Plaza Terrigal wining Gold in Best Business Venue and Central Coast Council winning gold for Local Government Tourism.

“The region’s success in these highly competitive awards shows that the Central Coast can offer domestic and international visitors superior experiences and we should be very proud of our tourism industry.

“A highlight of this year’s awards program was the high number of first-time entrants (60), many of whom are new businesses to the sector.

“This level of representation from emerging businesses tells us that innovation is alive and well in tourism and we are proud of the resilience of the sector.”

Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said it’s an exciting time for visitors in NSW, with domestic and international visitor expenditure in NSW surpassing prepandemic levels.

“We know our visitors don’t just want a selfie in front of the Sydney Opera House, they want to be immersed in the culture of the place and to experience what’s happening in and around iconic buildings, secret neighbourhoods, and in our beautiful natural

environment,” he said.

“Cultural activity is so much of why we love our towns and cities and it’s a big part of what attracts visitors and what keeps them coming back.

“Congratulations to all the winners and the whole hardworking sector.”

A Central Coast Council spokesperson said the wins cemented the region’s place as a leading NSW destination.

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the gold award for Local Government Tourism was the third win for Council’s Marketing and Tourism team at the awards, after taking out Silver in 2022 and Bronze in 2021.

“The category is open to all local government authorities and recognises excellence in tourism planning, the provision of tourism facilities and services, marketing, event development and management, and the overall contribution made to the NSW tourism industry,” she said.

“We would like to extend congratulations to the Australian Reptile Park and Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific for their incredible gold win achievements last night, as well as Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures for achieving finalist status in the Award for Visitor Litter Prevention category presented by Long Jetty-based organisation Take 3 for the Sea. “We are extremely proud of this triple Gold win for the Central Coast and having our region recognised at a state level for quality tourism management, innovation, and exceptional customer service.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said recent rises in tourism numbers and the region’s triple gold win are major opportunities to the Coast businesses and the community.

“The Central Coast visitor economy is a major contributor to supporting the growth of the region, bringing in more than $1B in the last year alone, boosting local businesses as

well as providing employment,” he said.

“According to the latest visitation numbers released in March 2023 by Destination NSW, via Tourism Research Australia, the region saw 5.7 million visitors annually.

“With such incredible visitation numbers for the region and then to be recognised for our tourism team’s incredible efforts in destination marketing and management at a state wide level is something we can all be proud of.”

This is the second time the Australian Reptile Park has received gold as Major Tourism Attraction, having previously won at the 2019 awards.

The Park was also awarded NSW Business of the Year and Excellence in Business at the 2021 NSW Business Awards, as well as the silver award for Major Tourism Attraction at the 2021 NSW Tourism Awards It has also received several awards at a local level for business and tourism, every year for the last decade.

Executive Director Tim Faulker said the latest win was a great accomplishment for the hard-working staff at the Park, who thrive when the guests leave with a giant smile on their face.

“It’s truly amazing to be recognised for all of our hard work and efforts we put into

providing an incredible family day out,” he said.

“We love our animals and staff more than anything and awards like this are truly humbling.

“We provide excellence in wildlife tourism and conservation, and we’ve done that for the past 75 years.”

Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific General Manager Mark Roth said the resort was delighted to have been named the state’s top business event venue.

“To have done so on a night that saw three Central Coast businesses crowned best-inclass makes it especially meaningful,” he said.

“It’s a testament to the strength of the industry here on the Coast and the appeal of the incredible region we call home.

“The year has been an eventful one for our meetings and events team, which included hosting duties for Team England at the FIFA Women’s World Cup – an opportunity that put our region under an international spotlight.

“To cap it off in this fashion is a fitting reward for a team I am very proud of and yet more evidence of their tireless dedication to our clients.”

Winners in the designated national award categories will represent NSW at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Darwin next March.

Terry Collins

PAGE 22

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4id Solutions leading the way Member for Wyong David Harris popped in to visit local business 4id Solutions recently to congratulate owners and Managing Directors Bruce and Kath Hegan for their “ground-breaking” results in the past three years.

“Bruce and Kath Hegan, along with their team at 4id Solutions, continue to surpass expectations and excel in their radio frequency identification (RFID) manufacturing expertise,” Harris said.

“The rapid growth over the past three years and their passion for investing in research, development, and new technologies to support greater production efficiencies and customer demand has put 4id at the forefront of the RFID converting industry, particularly as a wholesale converter for local and international industry.”

The company specialises in the innovative manufacture of smart labels and tags using radio frequency identification (RFID) contactless technologies, shipping smart tags and labels to clients around the world.

Applications are unlimited, with supply chain, inventory

Member for Wyong David Harris with colleague Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley and staff at 4id Solutions

management, healthcare and logistics companies already reaping the benefits from implementing RFID technology to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and visibility.

“One of the key aspects which sets 4id Solutions apart from its competitors is its unwavering commitment to innovation,” Harris said.

“From their impressive 1,400sqm facility, it is evident 4id Solutions stands as a trailblazer in the global field of RFID technology, driving manufacturing efficiencies through its custom designed systems.”

Harris says the company is now turning its attention to the developing domestic market as it makes Australian businesses aware of its RFID converting capabilities, which are fortified by integrating advanced vision cameras, inline processors, robust reporting and data management systems.

“Their commitment to excellence is further strengthened with the implementation of SafeGuard, ensuring unparalleled quality and security at every step,” he said.

Managing Director Bruce Hegan said with its ability to

track and record every aspect of RFID products, right from their origin, SafeGuard ensured unparalleled compliance and conformance.

“Supported by real-time diagnostics and remote app accessibility, this systemsbased solution redefines quality control, transforming the way you perceive manufacturing processes,” he said.

Through these technologies, the company has optimised the RFID production process, resulting in a 40 per cent increase in productivity, advanced quality control, faster

turnaround times and a decrease in landfill waste by 24 per cent.

The company continues to explore new contactless technologies, including sensor enabled RFID technology.

Sensor-enabled RFID tags, also known as RFID sensors or smart RFID tags, are a combination of RadioFrequency Identification (RFID) technology and sensors.

The tags are designed to not only carry a unique identification number (like traditional RFID tags) but also to collect and transmit real-time data about

the environment or object to which they are attached.

This integration of sensor technology with RFID adds a layer of functionality beyond simple identification.

As the adoption of sensor enabled technology increases across various industry applications, 4id will host its inaugural Smart Sensing Summit in November, with industry leaders from around the converging to demonstrate and discuss all aspects of this technology.

Many of the employees from the local Central Coast area started with 4id untrained in printing, processing, and RFID technologies.

“We empower our employees through a customised leadership training program, enabling them to embrace ownership of their positions,” Hegan said.

“This symbiotic growth fuels our company’s progress and that of our invaluable team members.”

Source: Member for Wyong David Harris

New resource to protect business data Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging Central Cast businesses to take advantage of a new digital resource aimed at helping protect against identity theft and data breaches.

Launched by the NSW Government, ID Support is designed to support businesses of all sizes and features information and tips on how to stay cyber aware, as well as interactive learning modules and printable checklists.

Tesch said it was important for small businesses to be proactive when tackling cyber security issues and to remain vigilant.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

“Even minor cyber security Government – that it’s small-business. incidents can have lasting becoming easier for small Businesses requiring cyber impacts on small businesses businesses to locate and security support can contact ID – and sometimes the effects of access the information and Support NSW Advisors during these incidents can be truly resources that could make a business hours on 1800 001 devastating. real difference to cyber security 040.

“It’s important to recognise incident prevention.”

Alternatively, they can fill out that not every business is going An Australian Cyber Security an online contact form, to bounce back fromRobina the impactTown Centre survey released 2020 Qld 4226 138 Centre Drive in Robina available at https://www.nsw. of what might appear to be a found 62 per cent of small PO Box 3275 Robina Town Centre Qldgov.au/id-support-nsw/ 4230 minor cyber security incident. businesses across Australia contact-id-support Tel: 1300 36 have 0867 Fax: 1300 81 8962 experienced a cyber “In our increasingly digital Another initiative being security incident. email: artwork@localdirectories.com.au world, it makes sense that small businesses would want Almost half of those surveyed undertaken by the NSW www.localdirectories.com.au to safeguard themselves rated their understanding of Government to help protect against threats to their cyber cyber security as average or NSW residents online and build security by arming themselves below average and had poor cyber security awareness is the release of a new type of with information, skills and cyber security practices. strategies.

Small businesses seeking credential technology that will holders of “It’s really pleasing to see – information on how to stay benefit through initiatives such as ID cyber secure can visit www. MyServiceNSW accounts.

Support from the NSW nsw.gov.au/id-support-nsw/ This new feature informs

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“Cyber security is of real concern to Australian small businesses,” she said.

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This complements the new Password Strength Tester, launched earlier this month, which helps people create strong passwords and check whether their password has previously been disclosed in a data breach or leak.

Community members are also encouraged to visit Tesch’s office at 20 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy, to pick up a copy of The Little Black Book of Scams, an internationally recognised resource to help the community learn about scams.

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MONEY TALK Planning Your Retirement In 8 Steps

Brought to you by bishopcollins.com.au

Author: Phil Keenan, Company Director Most people don’t effectively plan their retirement.

Yet, the importance of preparing for retirement can’t be overstated, especially considering the extended lifespans brought about by advancements in medicine and living conditions. On average, individuals in Australia aged 65 can expect to live for another 20 to 23 years, highlighting the need for a well-thought-out retirement plan.

Here are eight concise steps to help you plan your retirement: 1. Assess Your Current Financial Situation Begin by taking stock of your current financial standing. List all your assets, including superannuation and their market values, and detail your liabilities, such as loans, specifying interest rates and minimum repayments. Identify sources of income, such as salary, interest, rental income, and dividends. This financial

snapshot will form the basis of your retirement plan.

2. Determine Your Retirement Age Your retirement age plays a pivotal role in planning. This is important for several reasons.

• Firstly, you cannot access the Federal Government age pension until you reach the age of 65 to 67 (depending on when you were born).

• Secondly, you cannot access your super until you satisfy a condition of release.

One of the most common conditions of release is reaching preservation age.

• Your preservation age will range from 55 to 60, depending on your birth date.

3. Consider Your Retirement Location Decide where you plan to live during retirement. Moving to a more affordable area can impact your available capital for investments and, subsequently, your retirement income.

4. Calculate Your Retirement Income Needs Determine your retirement income needs. According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia’s (ASFA), for a modest or comfortable standard of living, a retired single or couple around the age of 65, who is generally healthy and owns their own home, will need an annual income of: • $31,867 (single) and $45,946 (couple) for a modest lifestyle in retirement • $50,207 (single) and $70,806 (couple) for a comfortable lifestyle in retirement

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5. Optimise Debt Management Effectively managing your debt is crucial. Develop a debt management and repayment strategy, prioritising highinterest debt like credit cards or personal loans. Additional repayments will save you money and expedite debt clearance.

6. Understand Your Superannuation Superannuation significant part

forms a of your

retirement wealth.

It’s important to keep track of it and understand how it’s invested.

If you have multiple superannuation accounts, consider consolidating your superannuation into one account. The ATO can assist with this process.

Your superannuation fund’s annual return and thus your retirement savings will be impacted by how your superannuation money is invested between various asset classes (broadly cash, property, Australian shares and international shares).

Ensure that your investment strategy is appropriate for your age and retirement objectives.

8. Estate Planning and Professional Advice

7. Check Eligibility for Age Pension

Disclaimer: Each tax situation is unique, requiring tailored tax planning. While this article provides general advice, it should not be considered personal.

We recommend consulting professional advisors, such as those from Bishop Collins, before taking any action.

Review the age pension criteria, considering age, residency, assets, and income.

Your eligibility and entitlement to the age pension can provide valuable supplementary income during retirement.

Don’t overlook estate planning, gifts, financial dependencies, and professional advice. Update your will, consider powers of attorney, and consult with a solicitor to manage your superannuation benefits.

Initiating your retirement planning journey sooner rather than later is crucial. These eight steps provide a solid foundation for effective retirement planning. If you find the process overwhelming or confusing, seek assistance from accountants or licensed financial advisers to ensure a secure retirement future.

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Toukley restaurant named best in family dining What started out as a dream between two childhood best friends turned into Mexicoast Cantina Toukley, which was named the best in family dining at the 2023 NSW Regional Restaurant and Catering Awards of Excellence.

“We are so excited to have won … massive shout out to the whole Mexicoast team for making this possible, each and every one of you are such a valuable part of our success,” Mexicoast spokesperson Jazzy Constantinidis said.

“Another big thank you to our Mexi supporters, we appreciate you the most.”

With the support of their wives Linda and Yvette, Michael Cross and Jim Constantinidis opened the first Mexicoast

Cantina in January 2018 at Terrigal.

“We had two successful years across from the beach before the pandemic hit,” Jazzy said.

“During the down period of trade when there was uncertainty with what was to come next, we decided to move our little restaurant to Toukley in 2020.

“Bringing the restaurant to Toukley is something we are very proud of.

“We have been a part of the Toukley community since the 1970s and have a huge love and passion for the town and the people.

“Mexicoast is a very community oriented restaurant and our staff and customers become friends and family as

Jim Constantinidis (left) and Michael Cross

soon as they enter our doors.

“Our dream together has been to really put our love back

into Toukley and the northern end of the coast and do all we can to create a vibrant and

enjoyable meeting place for locals and tourists alike and for all to enjoy the wonderful food,

beers, cocktails and company that Mexicoast has become synonymous for.

“We thank our customers for their continuing support and without them would not have the opportunity to be a part of awards nights like the Australian Catering Awards, let alone winners.”

The Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence give restaurants, cafes and caterers well-deserved recognition for their hard work, exceptional food and outstanding service.

They recognise operators in metropolitan and regional centres and restaurants are assessed on the entire dining experience including food, beverage, service and restaurant presentation.

Industree Group is all about sustainability Dedicated to minimising its impact on the environment and seeking improved future outcomes, Central Coast-based company Industree Group has introduced a number of significant sustainability initiatives, with more to come.

CEO Jon Fleming said Industree Group believed sustainability was the key to a brighter future and understood its responsibility in reducing its environmental footprint.

“Industree Group’s recycling and recovery activities require water, energy and other resources to function,” he said.

“Industree Group deploys innovative technologies, processes, and initiatives to responsibly manage and proactively mitigate the environmental impacts of these operations.”

A number of practical

initiatives have been implemented by Industree Group including the installation of 96 solar panels at its warehouse, recycling all paper and cardboard products, reusing corrugated cardboard and cartons and reducing the use of stretch wrap with pallet bands and straps.

Industree Group has also partnered with TerraCycle, an international leader in recycling innovation to offer customers the opportunity to recycle PPE such as masks and protective eyewear.

Other initiatives include implementing energy-saving devices to reduce electricity use, minimising the use of water and carpooling among staff.

“We have also introduced an incentive program to encourage our workforce to purchase hybrid or electric vehicles, and we will install a charging

CEO Jon Fleming with Molly Picklum at Industree Group Stadium in Gosford

station once we have more electric vehicles in our fleet,” Fleming said.

Industree Group is also dedicated to gaining significant

accreditations and certificates.

Some of these highly sought after and prestigious awards and accreditations include Silver Status Ecovadis

certification as well as SCS Responsible Forestry Certified / Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifications.

Industree Group has been a carbon-zero-certified company since 2011, meaning that its entire carbon footprint/ emissions are offset to counter its impact on the environment.

“Our employees, customers and partners are our greatest asset,” Fleming said.

“At Industree Group, we continue to strive to provide a safe place to work.

“We have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and child labour and are fully committed to preventing slavery, human trafficking and child labour in our operation and supply chain.”

Over the next 12 months, Industree Group plans to roll out a staff wellness program and a new return to work program.

It is also a major sponsor for the largest step challenge #MOVEAGAINSTCANCER 2023.

Industree Group is involved in a variety of partnerships including Industree Group Stadium, Manly Sea Eagles and more.

It has recently partnered with world champion surfer Molly Picklum as a sustainability and brand ambassador.

Fleming urged the community to join the company in helping to make a difference.

“Whether it’s reducing your energy consumption, recycling more, or supporting sustainable-focused businesses, we all have a role to play in creating a greener future,” Fleming said.

“Together, we can make a difference and create a healthy, happy, and sustainable world for many generations to come.”

Governments unite to boost TAFE State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid have joined forces to tout a new agreement between the Australian and NSW governments to boost the state’s vocational education and training sector.

The agreement will see more than $3.81B invested, with the landmark five-year National Skills Agreement (NSA) placing TAFE at the core of the vocational education and training (VET) sector, providing funding certainty to ensure

quality training and necessary reform across the sector.

The investment will allow for significant reform, including investment in TAFE Centres of Excellence, boosting foundational skills in language, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy and Closing the Gap in educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Reid said that for too long the VET sector had been overlooked and under-funded.

“Through the Albanese and Minns Government’s historic National Skills Agreement, the

VET sector will see a record $3.81B support critical skill areas and ensure we are preparing our next generations for the jobs that are needed.

“I look forward to continuing to be a part of a Federal Government that is committed to addressing the skills shortage and improving the VET sector for all Australians.”

Tesch said the agreement would see the VET sector, and TAFE in particular, supported through strategic investment, which recognised the vital nature of the sector to the economy.

“Our TAFE staff throughout NSW and Australia provide fantastic vocational educational opportunities and this landmark funding will enable critical strategic planning to support educators in continuing to provide world-class education,” she said.

“The Albanese and Minns Governments are committed to improving outcomes across our education sector by embedding national cooperation at the core of VET investment.”

Source: Federal and NSW Governments

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

PAGE 26

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Merilyn Vale attended the NSW Local Government Conference on Monday, November 13, on behalf of Coast Community News. Here are the first of her reports

Councils call for change Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart threw his support behind calls for financial sustainability for councils at the NSW Local Government (LGNSW) conference this week.

Hart said it was great to hear from a broad variety of councillors, MPs, panellists and other speakers.

“It’s clear that the key challenges for councils are largely consistent across the state,” he said.

These included the challenge to address increasing demand for services and infrastructure with diminishing and/or inconsistent financial resources to do so.

Hart said reduced or inconsistent resources were due to a variety of external pressures such as inflation and cost shifting.

“The ability for councils to keep pace with these external pressures and the financial impacts of lifts in service provision is proving increasingly difficult for councils,” he said.

Hart voted in support of

Strathfield Council’s call for LGNSW to lobby the State Government to address the negative impacts of its cost shifting activities on local government finances.

Strathfield Council said “cost shifting” referred to the practice of the State Government transferring its financial responsibilities for services or programs to local councils without providing adequate financial support.

The conference agreed to ask the State Government to commit to fully funding the programs and services that it mandates local councils must administer.

It also wants the State to hold a comprehensive fiscal impact assessment before transferring any new responsibilities such as the recent increase in the Emergency Services Levy (ESL) which the Government imposed on all councils without warning this year.

LGNSW said the levy increase for the State’s 128 councils in 2023/24 amounted to almost $77M, increasing from $143M in the previous year to $219M

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart at the conference

in 2023/24 – representing a 53.1 per cent increase.

The conference agreed to lobby the State Government to provide funding for the Rural Fire Service annual repairs and maintenance budget for the firefighting fleet, including annual indexation based on the Consumer Price Index.

The conference also called for the establishment of transparent mechanisms for

revenue sharing between State and Local Governments.

Hart said the state of local government assets and the ESL were two key matters which have major impacts on councils’ bottom lines and long-term financial sustainability.

“Changes to how these matters are dealt with will hopefully bring positive changes going forward,” he

said.

Hart also voted in support of two motions which were adopted calling on the State to review the Local Government Act 1993.

He said he was pleased to see reform was proposed.

Both Newcastle Council and Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council called for a review of the 30-year-old Act. Newcastle’s motion

acknowledged the role played by metropolitan, regional and rural councils in servicing their communities and said the needs of each community were different and not currently reflected in the Act, in terms of both governance and funding.

The conference supported changes to the Act that would redress the imbalance created in 1993 by restoring functions to elected officials based on their metropolitan, regional and rural contexts.

Coota-Gundagai said the Act has been amended at various times over the years.

“At the very least, it would seem appropriate that the Act be reviewed to ensure that the intent of the principles that drove the development of a new Local Government Act in 1993 have not been unnecessarily offended with the various amendments to the Act and that the Act remains fit for purpose as a governance framework for local government in NSW,” the regional council said.

Merilyn Vale

Councillors are not like a board of directors Local councillors are not like a board of directors – that’s the word from Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig.

Hoenig, who was a councillor for more than 30 years before becoming a State Member of Parliament, was speaking to more than 900 councillors at the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) conference this week.

He told the councillors they were there to “meet the obligations, the hopes, the aspirations” of their community.

“Don’t ever forget that and don’t let anyone tell you that’s not your job,” Hoenig said.

“The next person who tells

you you are like a board of directors just put your fingers in your ears because that’s not what you are.”

His advice differs from that given by Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart at the October 18 candidate information night for potential councillors.

On that night, attended by about 50 residents, Hart likened the role of councillor to that of a board of directors.

Hart attended the LGNSW conference this week and heard Hoenig’s advice.

He told Coast News that the Local Government Act 1993 is clear in its

Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig speaking at the conference

direction to councillors.

“They are members of a governing body which is responsible for making

strategic decisions (including financial) on behalf of their entire local government area,” Hart said.

“Governing bodies are strategic in nature and set the vision and direction of the organisation, and the Local Government Act was updated in 1993 to ensure these responsibilities are clearly defined.

“A board of directors of a company is not the same as a governing body of a local government entity; however, there are some similarities between the two as they both focus on strategic and highlevel decision-making that is appropriately removed from the day-to-day operational activities of the organisation – matters which the CEO/General Manager is responsible for.”

Hoenig told the conference he had seen a general manager pointing to the photos of his council’s 15 councillors.

“He said, ‘see those people – they’re our bosses’ and he was right,” Hoenig said.

Hoenig also told the conference that councillors were a reflection of the community and so you couldn’t stop a “bad few” – there could be the “odd lunatic councillor”.

But he said he would be prepared to come out to the regions and campaign against them as the public should know about it and he was prepared to help.

Merilyn Vale

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Where to get help when parenthood is a challenge Perinatal Mental Health Week, November 12-18, is a national week aimed at raising awareness and destigmatising perinatal mental health issues.

Perinatal refers to the period of time when a woman becomes pregnant and up to a year after giving birth when up to one-in-five mums and onein-10 dads will experience perinatal depression and anxiety.

This means that across Australia up to 100,000 families are impacted each year.

Saratoga mum Lisa Fox, who also is a life and work coach who supports mums, has herself experienced anxiety

and depression during the perinatal period.

“The journey into parenthood while joyful can also be immensely challenging,” she said.

“PMH Week seeks to destigmatise the struggles of new and expectant parents by acknowledging that it’s okay to seek help and that they are not alone in their experiences.

“I know that the feeling of aloneness can be immense.

“I experienced depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum.

“At the time I carried a great deal of shame about not being the mum I thought I was meant to be.

Lisa Fox with her eight-year-old son Luca

“Eight years on I can now look back at that new mum with compassion.

“I was not aware of any specific perinatal mental health

services as a new mum in 2015.

“Today, as a life and work coach for mums, it’s encouraging to see what is

available, and I want to ensure others on the Coast know too.”

Fox said just three of the support services now available included PANDA – Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia which operates the National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline 1300 726 306; the GIDGET Foundation which provides free psychological services to parents through its Gidget House face-to-face services and Start Talking telehealth program; and the Centre for Perinatal Excellence (COPE) free app called Ready to COPE which helps parents understand the expected changes and challenges of each week of pregnancy, birth and the first 12 months.

This year’s theme – We’re here, uncover your village – is also encouraging family, friends and the broader community to understand that they can play a pivotal role in helping expectant and new parents navigate this challenging time by becoming part of a parent’s support network.

“Understanding the signs and symptoms of perinatal mental health issues, as well as knowing where to direct parents for professional help, are key elements to providing that supportive network,” Fox said.

For more information go to www.pmhweek.org.au

Raising awareness of lung conditions

Respiratory Clinical Nurse Consultant Darren Pulleyblank

With World COPD Day falling on November 15, Central Coast Local Health District is raising awareness of the symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Respiratory Clinical Nurse Consultant Darren Pulleyblank said COPD was a chronic lung condition that affected the airways, making it difficult to breathe.

“About one in seven Australians aged 40 and over have some form of COPD, but about half of them don’t know they have it,” he said.

“According to 2021 Census data, three per cent of people living in Wyong and 2.7 per cent of people living in Gosford reported having a lung condition, including COPD or emphysema.

“This compares to 1.7 per

cent of people Australia-wide.

“It is important people who suspect they might have COPD get tested, because while there is no cure, early diagnosis and management of the disease can slow its progression and improve quality of life.

“Please ask your doctor for a lung function test, which can assess how well your lungs are working and if you have COPD or another lung condition.”

If you do have COPD, there is a lot you can do to slow down the worsening of your symptoms and keep the disease well managed, including: quitting smoking; engaging in regular exercise and eating a healthy, nutritious diet; attending a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program (arrange on 1300 725 565); making sure you are using your inhalers correctly and knowing

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what they are used for; seeing your GP or respiratory doctor for a COPD action plan; and making sure your influenza, pneumonia and COVID vaccinations are up to date.

To recognise World COPD Day staff at Central Coast Local Health District will hold a COPD information stall at Erina Fair (outside Woolworths) on Wednesday, November 15, from 10am-2pm.

24 Burns Road, Ourimbah (at the M1 intersection)

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Cheralyn is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’ 8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

DOWN IN THE GARDEN: Time to Propagate How do you get your plants for almost free?

Propagate them yourself.

This simply means creating new plants from a parent plant or plants.

There are two types of propagation, the first being ‘sexual’ which is the creation of a third new plant from two parent plants, and this is probably familiar to most of us as through the process of seed creation through pollination.

The offspring is a combination of the traits of both parent plants.

The other type of propagation is ‘asexual’ and this is achieved via cuttings, division of plants, grafting, budding and layering of one parent plant and this will produce a clone.

The resulting plant is an exact copy of the parent plant in every way although mutations do sometimes occur.

Today we are talking about cuttings and those that you could take right now.

It’s not that all plants can’t be reproduced via cuttings, it’s just that some methods work better than others with different plants.

TYPES OF CUTTINGS Softwood Cuttings are taken from new growth and as the name suggests, they are very soft.

They take really well either in water for later transplanting or in cutting and seed raising mixtures but are rather fickle with a low survival rate after striking.

Greenwood Cuttings are created when the plant stems are a little past the softwood stage and can be recognised by firmer stems.

They have a better survival rate into maturity.

Semi-Ripe Cuttings work very well with conifers and most evergreens and are taken once the stems begin to bud.

Hard Wood Cuttings are made well before new growth begins when the plant is in a dormant phase.

These cuttings are slower to strike, don’t have as great a rate of striking but once they do take, have an excellent survival rate into maturity.

Leaf-bud Cuttings are a semi-ripe cutting with a single leaf still attached and these are an economical way of creating an increased number of

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contact@cheralyndarcey.com cheralyn.darcey cheralyn cuttings, especially from shrubs.

Leaf Cuttings are not for all plants but there are some that can regenerate easily from a part or a whole leaf.

Full leaves develop roots from the picked end of the leaf and part leave cuttings will develop roots from the wound created from cutting them up.

Root Cuttings are created from larger roots of suitable plants during their dormant phase.

Preparation When obtaining cuttings, most are taken from the stem just below a node.

These joints in a ‘nodal cutting’ hold a lot of vascular tissue and so the formation of roots is far more likely.

Other methods include ‘heal cutting’ which involves pulling away side shoots so that some of the bark from the main stem comes away with it, ‘wounding’ a cutting by scraping away a section of the bark to expose the inner tissue and ‘callusing’ which is also a form of wounding in which a callus is encouraged to form from a scraped stem.

Root Hormone To help your baby cutting along, you can apply a root hormone.

There are commercial preparations out there but I’m a fan of organic homemade so here are a couple of my recipes: Add one generous tablespoon of organic honey to 2 cups of boiling water and stir well.

Once it drops to room temperature it is ready.

Dip cutting end into the mixture and then plant in a seed and cutting soil raising mix.

Another recipe I have not tried as yet involves boiling 1.5 litres of water and then once cooled adding a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.

Use the same way as the honey mixture.

I have also tried dipping hardwood cuttings into Vegemite and had success as well.

As strange as it sounds it’s probably the Vit B boost that creates the magic!

Cutting and Seed Raising Mediums Many cuttings can be started in a clear jar of water that sits in filtered light and seeds can

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS List your event for free – gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com Woy Woy Produce Swap – 10 – 11am Sunday 26 November - 87 Moana St, Woy Woy A produce swap works by having a set time and place for backyard growers to bring their excess food to share with other members. It is a very casual affair and nobody keeps score. By bringing your produce you are saying that you are happy for anyone to take what they need because it is excess to your needs. It is simply a way of sharing your food with the people in your neighbourhood More info - www.facebook.com/events/158196294044771 Monthly Community Breakfast & Growers Market 8:30 - 10:30 am, Sunday 10 December - Pearl Beach Memorial Community Hall, Diamond Road, Pearl Beach Featuring a local produce market. On a monthly bases, on the second Sunday of the month there is a ‘Community BBQ Breakfast” featuring a local produce market, with fruit and vegetables, eggs, pastries, breads, jams and pickles.

More details: Phone 4344 2319 or www.lovecentralcoast.com/events/monthly-communitybreakfast-growers-market

be put straight into ordinary garden soil or a potting mix but planting straight into a speciality cutting and seed raising medium gives most plants the best beginning and makes transplanting into your garden or larger pots easier down the track.

Propagation mixes need to provide aeration, excellent drainage, and support.

Although bagged commercial mixtures can be purchased, a good example of a homemade mix is: 2 parts coir peat, 2 parts compost and 1 part course river sand.

Summer Cuttings It’s all about semi-ripe cuttings as your main propagation pals during summer.

This means the base is hard and the tip is soft of your cuttings.

Plants include: Evergreen shrubs, Boxwood (Buxus), Butterfly Bush (Buddleia), Coleus ( Soenostemon), Cherry Laurel (Lauraceae), Bay (Laurus nobilis), Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), Viburnum (Viburnum), Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), Geranium (Pelagonium spp.), Fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica), Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-

sinensis); Gardenia (Gardenia spp.), Ivy (Hedera) , Mock Orange (Philadelphus), Star Jasmin (Trachelospermum)

Australian Native Cuttings For these beauties, you will find good results using a propagation sand but propagation soil mixed in with additional propagation sand will help.

The aim is to have a well aerated medium.

Take the cuttings as outlined above but be prepared to wait a little longer for growth to occur.

You need to select plants that are in their growth period, not dormant for cuttings to be successful.

There are so many that fit this category but three worth noting are any of the Dwarf Gums, Native Frangipani (Hymenopsporum flavum), Ivory Curl Tree (Buckinghamia celsissima).

My advice?

Go out into the garden and if it is happily enjoying new growth now, it is fit for cutting!

An extra tip: if the stem bends to 60 degrees easily and springs back quickly, then it is ready to become your cutting.

TASKS & TIPS FOR YOU THIS WEEK

This week you can plant the following: Culinary herbs, beans, 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

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Safe haven for those with mental health issues The NSW Government has bolstered access to free mental health support on the Central Coast with the official opening of a Safe Haven at Gosford Hospital on November 7.

The new facility is staffed by peer workers with lived experience and offers immediate personalised support to people experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress.

The inviting non-clinical environment provides an alternative to presenting to the emergency department and allows people to drop in whenever they need support, without the need for

appointments or medical referrals.

The Safe Haven is located on the corner of Ambulance Rd and Holden St, Gosford and can be accessed from 9am-4.30pm Monday to Friday or by calling 4394 1597.

The Mental Health Line is also available 24/7 on 1800 011 511 to connect people to other mental health services.

In an emergency, people should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

The NSW Government has invested in the Safe Haven initiative and Suicide Prevention Outreach Teams, as part of a $143.4M investment over four

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch MP (left) and Member for The Entrance David Mehan (right) with Safe Haven peer workers

years in Towards Zero Suicides.

There are currently 19 Safe Havens open across NSW, with

another Safe Haven expected to launch at Wyong later this year.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the Central Coast had had a tough few years facing fires, floods and a global pandemic all of which had taken a mental toll.

“The Gosford Safe Haven couldn’t have arrived at a better time,” she said.

“It is important that Safe Haven is located at Gosford Hospital, near the town centre and close to both train and bus transport to allow access from all parts of the Coast.

“I know that this facility is going to be life changing for our community and I encourage anyone who is struggling with their mental health to drop in

and have a chat with the wonderful peer workers that have faced similar challenges.”

Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said Safe Haven was not just a name.

“These facilities are truly safe spaces where people struggling with their mental health can find solace and support,” she said.

“As Minister for Mental Health I am committed to increasing support in regional NSW including the Central Coast and this centre delivers exactly that, playing a crucial role in our aim to reduce the suicide rate across NSW.” NSW Government

Walking off mental health problems A new mental health and fitness support group for men has begun at The Haven, Terrigal.

Walk It Off offers support for people who need a place to connect with others and share in an accessible, casual, nonjudgemental setting.

Every Wednesday from 5.30pm, residents are invited to meet at The Trojans Clubhouse at Terrigal to get involved.

From here, the group will walk from The Haven to Wamberal and back, with walkers supporting each other through conversation.

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid MP recently joined the Walk It Off community to discuss the group.

“Walk It Off is an extraordinary organisation with success in regional areas like the Blue Mountains; now it has come to the Central Coast to support our community,” Reid said.

“As an emergency doctor, promoting mental health awareness is a priority, and Walk It Off provides an excellent platform for people in need of support.

“Not only does Walk It Off support mental health through a non-judgemental setting, but those who get involved are becoming physically active, which is so important for overall health.

“Walk It Off has my support and I look forward to helping support the organisation develop in our region.”

Walk It Off founder Phillip Dixon said the group was all about helping support men navigate life.

“Walk It Off is a grass roots, community-based men’s mental health support initiative that promotes awareness and provides a platform for men to share openly about the positive and challenging circumstances of their lives,” he said.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with the Terrigal Walk it Off group

“Back in 2020 I was suffering with my mental health and reaching out for help.

“I couldn’t see a way forward and experiencing immense pressure; I was on the edge of taking my life.

“It became apparent shortly after navigating the minefield of my crisis that there were limited face-to-face services available.

“The process to get urgent help simply wasn’t there.

“Confusing

recommendations and dead ends became my reality.

“What I needed was somewhere I could go for support that was informal, consistent, accessible, and most importantly, with men who had lived experience.

“Fast forward two years and in 2022, a work colleague of mine, who was facing similar adversities to what I had experienced, parked his car in the Blue Mountains National Park, went into the bush alone

and has never been found.

“Sam’s disappearance, among my own personal experience, launched me into action.

“Shortly after Sam’s disappearance, Walk It Off was founded by a group of men from the Blue Mountains.

“We felt deeply passionate about creating a space where men could connect in our local area, and it was agreed what better way to get through life’s ups and downs than to walk

and talk with a mate.”

Dixon would like to see Walk It Off grow across Australia.

“Walk It Off has two locations – Springwood and Terrigal,” he said.

“Both walks start at the same time on the same day – Wednesdays at 6pm.

“Our vision is to see many Walk It Offs helping communities right around the country.

“Anyone interested attending one of the walks can simply show up at Terrigal Trojans from 5.30pm on Wednesdays.

“We go on a short 3.5km walk that takes about 45 minutes.

“The only requirement for participation is the desire to make a positive difference to your own mental health and (that of) others around you.”

For more details go to www. walkitoff.org.au Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Students urged to apply for teaching scholarships Students starting teaching degrees in 2024 can now register for scholarships worth up to $40,000 designed to encourage more people to become teachers in places like the Central Coast.

The Federal Government initiative will see $160M delivered for the Commonwealth Teaching Scholarships Program.

In designing the scholarships, the Government consulted with school principals and teachers, who spoke about the scholarships they received and how they often included a requirement to teach for a period of time.

Based on this feedback, the scholarships will include a ‘commitment to teach’

requirement, which means recipients must be willing to commit to teach for four years (undergraduate) and two years (postgraduate) in governmentrun schools or early learning settings, in areas like the Central Coast.

The 5,000 scholarships will be available for new teaching students studying from 2024 and will be targeted at highachieving school leavers, midcareer professionals, First Nations peoples, people with disability, people for whom English is an additional language or dialect and individuals from rural, regional and remote locations or from low socio-economic backgrounds.

Central Coast students who are considering studying to

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with his former teacher Susan Braund

become a teacher should consider registering.

Scholarships of $40,000 each will be available for undergraduate teaching students over four years and $20,000 for postgraduate

students over two years.

To encourage more teachers to live and work in remote Australia, students completing their final year professional experience placements in these communities could

receive an additional top-up payment of $2,000.

This also builds on the Government’s program to cut HECS-HELP debt for teachers in very remote areas.

“The Albanese Government is committed to encouraging more people to study to become a teacher in places like the Central Coast,” Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said.

“This is one of the ways we are working to boost the teacher workforce in areas that need it the most.

“I encourage our best and brightest Central Coast students to register for one of these scholarships.”

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare said teachers did one of the most important jobs

in the world, and Australia needed more of them.

“I want more young people to leap out of high school and want to become a teacher, rather than a lawyer or a banker,” he said.

“And I want more people in the middle of their careers to consider becoming teachers.

“That’s what these scholarships are all about.

“Tying scholarships to a commitment to teach is an oldschool idea that will help tackle today’s teacher workforce challenges.”

Prospective teaching students can check their eligibility and register their interest at education.gov.au/ teaching-scholarships.

Applications close on January 14, 2024.

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Water ski action builds to crescendo The 22nd IWWF World Water Ski Racing Championships is approaching a crescendo on the Brisbane Water, with each category appearing as though it may go to the final day to crown the best water ski racers in the world.

Australia dominated the first two days of racing, winning every race but one and at the time of writing – heading into Race Day Three on Wednesday, November 15, – led the pointscore in each division.

One of the closest races will be the premier Men’s Open F1 category, with past World Junior Champion Carter Robertson taking Race One only to be eclipsed by a late race charge from veteran racer Daniel Graziano who took not only the win, but the

Championship lead.

The Junior Boys, which features athletes from the age of 13 to 18, is wide open heading towards the end of the event.

American Ryder Tovatt took Race One by a mere 0.1 second over Khodi Cartledge, but finished a lowly 10th in Race Two. A second placing from Sydneysider Jaali Walsh, finishing behind Zak Armstrong, saw him take the lead heading to Race Day Three.

Cartledge’s sister Leilani has been the dominant force in the Junior Girls category, taking the first two race wins and holding a 129-point advantage at the half way point – the biggest margin in any category.

Maddi Boyer has been another to win both races at the midpoint in the Open Women’s

Ryder Tovatt of the USA shows his style on the Brisbane Water

F1, but holds just a 22-point lead over current World Junior Champion Nellie McMillan – who miraculously finished second in Race Two after losing her spare ski rope, forcing her driver – father David – to slow drastically to get her back on

track.

Like Boyer, Emma Barnes has won both Women’s F2 races and holds a 39-point lead over Molly Palser.

American Sophia Rivera has built strongly, finishing the first two races third and second

respectively, and is bullish about her chances in the back half of the event.

The Men’s F2 race sees Brendan Tidswell in the lead after a Race Two win narrowly in front of Aiden Cuff – who took the first race.

Australians occupy the top four places, with Kiwi Mitch Horan the first of the internationals in fifth.

Racing continues Wednesday, November 15, and then is finalised on Saturday, November 18, with the Women’s races starting at 9am for 45 minutes plus one lap, the Juniors at 11am for 30 minutes plus one lap and then the Men at 1pm for one hour plus a lap.

They are supported on Wednesday by the International Challenge series, which is a pair of 20-minute plus one lap races at 3pm (Juniors) and 4pm (Veterans) respectively.

Live action can be followed through Ski Racing Australia – www.skiracing.com.au or on the official World Water Ski Racing Championships Facebook page (www. facebook.com/wwsrc2023).

Big wins in Round 3 of cricket comp Day 2 of Round 3 of the Diggers The Entrance 1st Grade Men’s Competition saw wins for Lisarow Ourimbah, Warnervale, The Entrance, Kincumber Avoca and Terrigal Matcham on November 11.

Wyong continued their batting innings on Day 2 chasing Lisarow Ourimbah’s 161.

Jack Harris top scored on 62 but the rest of Wyong’s batting succumbed with the bowling of Scott Burkinshaw 4/66 off 25, Daniel Thompson 3/58 off 15 and skipper Ben Sunshine 2/11 off 8.5.

Lisarow Ourimbah started their second batting innings and ended on 3/67, bringing them home the win.

Brisbane Water were all out on Day 1 for 177 with Warnervale continuing to bat on Day 2.

Aidan Letherbarrow out on 55 off 146 and skipper, Brett

Northern Power bowler Christopher Archer had a sensational day

Russell 40 off 63 along with Daniel Hill 25 off 34 took Warnervale to 246 where they declared and took the win seven wickets down.

After Day 1, The Entrance were all out for 196.

Narara Wyoming continued their batting innings on Day 2 but fell to The Entrance bowlers, Simon Keen 3/16 off 8.3 and Gregory Kitchen 2/11 off 8.

After just 35.3 overs, Narara Wyoming were all out on 74.

The Entrance went back in to bat to chase their required seven runs which made it an easy win.

Kincumber Avoca finished their batting innings on Day 1 on 8/197.

Southern Spirit took to the crease on Day 2 for their batting innings with top scorer Matthew Jones 43 off 103.

Kincumber Avoca skipper Dylan Robertson took down the team with his bowling of 4/39 off 15 with the help of Harry Woodhead’s keeping, taking three catches and a stumping.

Southern Spirit were bowled out for 147.

Northern Power were all out for 111 after 44 overs on Day 1.

Terrigal Matcham continued their battings innings on Day 2 and finished all out on 149.

Northern Power bowler Christopher Archer had a sensational day, taking 8 wickets for 47 runs off just 16.5 overs with five maidens.

Northern Power went back in to bat for their second innings with Matthew Clarke top scoring on 50.

Riecko Parker-Coles took 4/22 off 16.2 leaving Northern Power all out on 104.

Terrigal Matcham chased Northern Power’s 2nd innings and finished two wickets down on 67 earning them the win.

Round 5 of the Ibis Styles the Entrance 1st Grade Women’s Competition saw Wyong go up against The Entrance at Taylor Park on November 12.

The Entrance won the toss and elected to bat.

Skipper Jade Crook top scored in their batting innings with 33* off 19 leaving them 2/126 after their 20 overs.

Wyong went in to bat with every player putting runs on the board.

Skipper Ebonnie Leard was 30 not out off 28.

Arlya Leard hit the winning runs in the 19th over and was 13 not out after eight balls.

Wyong took the win 2/127.

At Carrington Street, Narara/ Terrigal and Northern Power Orange went head to head.

Narara/Terrigal won the toss and elected to bat with big wickets in the beginning by Northern Power after taking out Ava Drury and AlexBobbi Smith.

Dehann Richardson retired on 30 off 30.

Sam Thomas, with some incredible bowling of 2/12 off 4, left Narara/Terrigal 5/101 after 20 overs.

Northern Power went out to bat.

Top scorer Samantha Eggleton made 32 runs but

with Emily Humphreys’ bowling of 4/7 off 3.5 Northern Power were unable to make the runs after being bowled out for 93 with 1 ball to come.

Lisarow Ourimbah and Kincumber Avoca played at Rogers Park with Kincumber Avoca winning the toss and electing to bat.

Skipper Sophie McCrae top scored with 44 off 35.

After their batting innings, they were 8/102.

Lisarow Ourimbah went out to bat with opening batter, Michelle Pankhurst, being taken out with the first ball.

Aanya Siingh top scored the innings on 52* off 55.

With the bowling of Kincumber Avoca’s Sophie McCrae 3/21 off 4, Lisarow Ourimbah fought to take home the win 6 wickets down on 105.

Northern Power White had the bye.

Junior tennis champs crowned at Gosford The Northumberland Region Junior Tennis Champions were crowned on Sunday, November 12, as the area’s top talent travelled to Gosford Tennis Club for the end-of-season Champion of Champions event.

In an invitation-only close to the 2023 Regional Matchplay Series (RMS), the top pointscorers across the series played off for the title of Regional Champion.

The top two finishers at the Regional Champion of Champions will go on to represent the Northumberland Region at the NSW Champion of Champions in Springwood

Winners and runners-up of the 14s and 16s years with TNSW Country Tennis Chairman Brett Bevan

from November 25-27.

The Regional Matchplay Series has seen competitive tennis events played across numerous venues in the Hunter

and on the Central Coast, from Gosford to Singleton.

With events averaging between 80 and 100 entrants, the RMS has provided

opportunities for players starting on their competitive play journey, as well as more seasoned competitors with an eye on the

high performance pathway.

Results on the day were: 10/u boys Ashran Nur Rizal def Maxim Joyce 6-1; 10/u girls Cataleya Edwin def Hazel

Wright 6-1; 12/u boys Caleb Gwinnell-Sheather def Veljko Maksimovic 6-2; 12/u girls Shyla Kelly def Ocean Truesdale 6-4; 14/u boys Cooper Jenkinson def Kelly Ryan 6-0; 14/u girls Jessica Kelly def Bridget Broome 6-2; 16/u boys Isaac Elson def Lleythan Jenkinson 6-3; and 16/u girls Maria Binkovska def Ruby Pinna 6-2 6-3.

The 2024 Regional Matchplay Series is due to commence in February 2024.

Players interested in competing next year should speak to their local tennis coach about competitive play opportunities.

PAGE 32

THURSDAY, 16 NOVEMBER 2023

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Mariners men defeated as women hold fast A valuable point celebrated by Central Coast Mariners A-League Women’s | Photo: CCM Media

FOOTBALL The inaugural doubleheader at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium took place on the afternoon of November 12, creating a buzz among fans.

However, both the women’s and men’s teams struggled to find the back of the net in their respective matches.

The women’s game commenced at 2pm, drawing an impressive crowd of nearly 3,300 fans eager to witness coach Emily Husband’s squad

face-off against the seasoned Brisbane Roar.

Having not played for three weeks due to league scheduling issues, the Mariners women appeared a bit rusty. The first half saw Brisbane dominating with their physical style, literally pushing the Mariners aside.

Nonetheless, a brilliant corner from Martin resulted in Badawiya looping her header over the keeper, securing a goal for the home team.

Brisbane quickly responded

with an equaliser, and despite the Mariners’ second-half rally showcasing technical skills, the score remained tied at one all.

Following the women’s game, the men’s team took the field amid some optimism from the stands, having returned fresh from a successful match against Bali United in Bali.

Unfortunately, the Mariners men suffered their fourth consecutive loss of the season, falling 2-1 to their Queensland rivals.

The game showcased moments where the local team appeared both tired and inspired within minutes of each other.

Brisbane dominated the first 30 minutes, securing an early goal that made the Central Coast team seem tired and flatfooted.

Abul Koul managed to

equalise for the yellow-clad men after some inspired midfield play from Tulio.

A controversial penalty decision was made after Theoharous was taken down in the box, leading to protests from the Roar. A VAR review denied the penalty, sparking protests from the local crowd.

The remainder of the match

Mariners women get their own live radio call Local radio station CoastFM has come to the party for the Mariners women’s team with a new live commentary that started last weekend.

Katrina Ashley joined longtime CoastFM Football team commentator Daniel McClanly, Luke Byrne and Trent Dickeson in the Industree Group stadium’s media box to call the games on Sunday, November 12.

CoastFM football commentary is the longest serving live radio broadcast in the A-League men’s competition, having been there from the start of the competition in August 2005.

Speaking with Coast Community News about Sunday’s women’s match McClanly said: “I really enjoyed the game, it was an end-to-end affair and unfortunately they didn’t win outright, they should have taken all three points.

“There was a decent crowd in there to support the game and with this doubleheader, I think

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CoastFM women’s football commentators Daniel McClanly and Katrina Ashley

the crowd really helped the girls lift in the second half,” he said.

When asked about the new team and format, Ashley said it was “an absolutely lovely stadium to call at.

“I think the players and the fans really appreciate the atmosphere and the increased liveliness that’s been brought to women’s soccer,” he said.

“I think the fans really like to see the men and women

supporting each other and playing together, [while] having a great time out on the pitch.”

CoastFM management says that the women’s games, both home and away, will be broadcast for every women’s game in line with the men’s games.

Games can be heard on the FM frequency 96.3 or online at the CoastFM website and on the Community Radio mobile app.

unfolded as a pitched battle between the two sides, with the Mariners’ defence holding up until full-time, highlighting a need for more front-line firepower.

Despite the results, the 7,070 Mariners fans and the seven Brisbane fans certainly got their money’s worth with the double-header format.