Coast Community News #418 by Central Coast Newspapers

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30 NOVEMBER 2023

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS • COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

ISSUE 418

News

Controversy continues over state forest logging

Council joins the fight against domestic violence See page 5

Out&About

A YEAR E S A L E U BLINDS PRICE PROMISE WE WILL BEAT ANY WRITTEN PRICE BY One of many log piles in Ourimbah State Forest

Community group Camp Ourimbah has accused Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) of a lack of truth, transparency and respect shown to the community over the controversial logging of Ourimbah State Forest (OSF). See page 7

Christmas Fair returns – at a new venue See page 13

Business

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People power saves Austin Butler Reserve *for any comparable product

In what community groups are hailing as a major win for people power, Central Coast Council will abandon its plan to sell part of the Austin Butler Reserve at Woy *INFINITY RANGE Woy to the neighbouring Peninsula Plaza. Council Administrator Rik Hart adopted a staff recommendation to scrap plans to re-zone the site for the prospective sale at the November 28 meeting, after a community survey showed overwhelming support for Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch celebrates the decision at Austin Butler Reserve retention of the reserve in public with a re-zone and sale (with money meeting recommended the sell-off hands. In September, Hart announced the raised to be used for a greening plan be scrapped. issue would go back out for public program on the Peninsula), or the land While the report said an independent consultation, with residents asked to remaining in public hands. survey found the community quite choose between Council proceeding A reportCurtains from staff presented at the split over the mooted sale (49 per cent

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against, 46 per cent in favour), an open community survey conducted via the Your Voice Our Coast website produced a very different outcome. Held between October 16 and November 13, it attracted 2,000 users, almost 80 per cent of whom took part in the poll. A total of 1581 responses were received, with 92 per cent of these expressing a preference to retain the site in Council ownership. Thirty two letters were also received, 78 per cent of which opposed the sale. Hart, who had vowed to be guided by community feedback in the ultimate decision, had little choice but to scrap sale plans. Continued page 3

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Somersby company named Business of the Year See page 21

Sport

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Celebrating local excellence EDITORIAL In 2023, the Central Coast has once again proved that it is a hotbed of talent and achievement, with residents from various fields clinching numerous state, national and international awards. The region, often overshadowed by its metropolitan counterparts, stood tall as its residents brought home accolades across diverse categories, showcasing the depth of talent and expertise within our community. Individuals such as Nicoila Olyslaggers in international athletics, Dylan Littlehales in para-paddling, cyclist Nicole Duncan, Joanne McCarthy for national journalism and young Belle Norman in the national busking competition all highlight the spirit of friendly achievement the Coast is becoming renowned for. Businesses, too, have come to the foreground in the state’s tourism awards with three gold medalists

calling the Coast home. The region also hosts the state’s overall business of the year – ARC Ento Tec at Somersby – and has seen major achievements in the transport, legal and energy sectors. So-called mumpreneurs have made a real go of it over the last couple of years successfully balancing work and family in the online world. The arts community, in particular, emerged as a powerhouse of creativity and innovation, with international successes like The Little Quirks touring the world and past and present students of the local Conservatorium of Music winning praise. Local artists, sculptors and performers left an indelible mark on the national stage thanks in part to supporters like the Bouddi Society where international thespian John Bell is helping launch a new generation of artists. Their ability to infuse the essence of our unique coastal lifestyle into their work captivated audiences and judges alike.

It’s fair to say the Central Coast’s artistic identity is no longer a hidden gem; it’s a vibrant tapestry that has been recognised and celebrated across the nation. The academic achievements of Central Coast students have also garnered attention and acclaim. From scientific innovations to literary successes, our students have showcased their intellectual prowess on a grand scale. These young minds are not just the future but the present architects of change, shaping the narrative of a growing excellence that defines our region. In the realm of sports, Central Coast athletes have proved that they are a force to be reckoned with. From dominating fields to breaking records, our sportsmen and women have not just brought home trophies; they have brought a sense of pride and unity to our community thanks in no small part to years of dedicated work from outfits like the local Academy of Sport.

Moreover, the entrepreneurial spirit on the Central Coast is thriving. Local businesses and startups have been recognised for their innovation and contribution to various industries. These success stories not only boost our local economy but also serve as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, reinforcing the idea that greatness can be cultivated right here on the Central Coast. As we celebrate these achievements, let it be a reminder that the Central Coast is not just a picturesque destination; it’s a thriving hub of talent and potential. The national awards won by our residents and organisations in 2023 are not just accolades; they are milestones in the journey towards realising the full potential of our vibrant and diverse community. Congratulations to all the awardees for putting the Central Coast on the map and inspiring us all to aim higher. David Abrahams - Managing Editor

Students pitch in to keep waterways clean Students from Kincumber High School and Green Point Christian College have removed 1.64 tonne of rubbish from Kincumber Creek and the Broadwater through the Clean4shore program during three recent field trips. Clean4Shore spokesperson Graham ‘Jono’ Johnston said the students had put in a mammoth effort. “Even an office safe was pulled from Kincumber Creek,” he said. Johnston said the clean-ups had also unearthed a lot of material illegally dumped and oyster baskets dislodged during recent storms. Students from Kincumber High School joined two cleanup events – on October 16 and November 1. On October 16, Year 8 students attacked Kincumber Broadwater, with litter collected from around Davistown wharf and the mangroves at South Kincumber . “The mangroves adjacent the church had larger volumes of small litter collected with a full bag removed from the island at the end of the South Kincumber Channel,” Johnston said. “Davistown RSL mangroves had the usual bulk balls and toys all thrown over the fence from the public outdoor area at the RSL club.

Kincumber High School students were enthusiastic in cleaning-up the waterways

“The Broadwater mangroves only had scattered litter with several more oyster baskets removed. “A derelict vessel was found in the Broadwater mangroves, moved out into deeper water and towed back to Kincumber jetty. “This was loaded on top of the collected rubbish.” On November 1 students joined in a clean-up of Kincumber Creek, with a support unit student also attending as a team-building exercise. “Low tide restricted access to the main Broadwater with Kincumber Creek ideal in this tide,” Johnston said. “An office safe and two car tyres were spotted in the water with the students straight over the side to lift them into the barge.

“At the end of the creek illegal dumping has occurred with industrial product found and loaded on board. “Across the creek adjacent Frost Reserve a large pile of beer cans was found dumped.” Johnston said students walked both sides of the creek and filled 10 bags with soft and hard plastics and rubber balls. “At the mouth of the creek adjacent the oyster lease (we found) oyster plastic pieces and baskets,” he said. “Also recovered were four more car tyres, marine ply and timber products.” On November 2, it was students from Green Point Christian College who pitched in to clean up the foreshores of Kincumber Broadwater and Empire Bay Channel. “A keen group of Year 12 students used this field trip for

environment assessment,” Johnston said. “Ben Cuerel from Central Coast Council attended the field trip providing valuable information on this local eco system. “The mangroves behind the old Bouddi Pony Club have received extensive bush regeneration with much more work still remaining. “Two hundred metres of oyster pipe lays in the mangroves with Clean4shore to seek advice from local oyster growers on possible removal. “The small Island at the end of Empire Bay Channel has previously had extensive littering from poor camping practices. “Ben Cuerel placed three of our disposal bags for future use by campers.” Johnston said Empire Bay mangroves behind the Progress Hall appeared to be clean from the water, but larger items including drums, buckets, oyster baskets, derelict boating material, marine ply, bedding, treated pine and industrial plastic were found, along with plastic bottles, cans and rubber. “Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch was at the Kincumber jetty on our return following the field trip,” Johnston said. “Adam praised the students on their efforts and spoke of measures to control the entry of litter into the waterways.”

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War of words over PEP 11 Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has hit back at claims by Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch that the region’s State Labor MPs are sending the wrong message to the community on environmental protection. Crouch slammed the MPs for voting to again delay debate on an Opposition Bill which would prevent offshore drilling in NSW. “During a parliamentary sitting on Wednesday, the Labor Government moved that standing and sessional orders be suspended, delaying debate of the Environment and Planning Minerals Legislation Amendment (Offshore Drilling and Associated Infrastructure Prohibition) Bill 2023 to 2024,” he said. “Once again, the Labor Government and the Central Coast Labor MPs have shown their true colours when it comes to PEP 11; voting to

A PEP 11 protest held at Umina Beach in 2019

delay debate on a Bill that would make PEP-11 dead in the water.” The proposed renewal of the PEP 11 permit for off-shore gas exploration along the east coast of NSW, including the Central Coast, has been a point of controversy for several years, with numerous protests held in the region. “After kicking the Bill off to a stacked Labor Environment and Planning Committee with only one coastal MP, the Liberal Member for Vaucluse, this

government now wants to wait until March 2024 before debating the Bill, sending the absolute wrong message to not only our community but the proponents of PEP 11,” Crouch said. “The Opposition was prepared to accept all the amendments recommended by the committee, however even with these amendments Labor still didn’t have the guts to debate this important Bill.” Crouch said the community deserved answers from the

Labor MPs. “The local Labor MPs were quick to promise they would fight against PEP 11 at any cost, but it’s clear as day that they’re more interested in toeing the party line and can’t be trusted to stand up for protecting our environment,” he said. But Tesch said all Labor MPs on the Coast stood with the community in opposing PEP 11 and that would not change. “Sadly, we continue to see the

Liberal Party playing politics instead of following proper processes,” she said. “We have already seen what happens when Liberal governments don’t follow proper procedures, which is the reason there has been a delay in a resolution of the PEP 11 proposal. “This Bill is another example of politics over resolution. “On the advice of legal experts, the Committee has found that key aspects of this

Bill may be constitutionally invalid or have negative unintended consequences for NSW. “Amendments were considered, however (it was) found that these would substantially undermine the intent of the Bill. “We will not play games with the future of PEP 11. “We want to see this offshore mining process ended and unlike the former government, we will follow lawful process to do so.” Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the Labor Party refused to jeopardise the process by playing politics with the issue. “It is important we leave this particular decision with the Federal Government because we have seen what happens when populist conservative governments get ahead of themselves,” he said. Terry Collins

People power saves Austin Butler Reserve From page 1 He stressed that the findings of the independent survey varied greatly from the community poll, which he said had been successfully influenced by a “campaign group”. He said independent surveys were critical in obtaining the views of “more of a crosssection of the community” and mentioned that another survey independently conducted by Peninsula Plaza had seen a majority in favour of the sale. But at the end of the day, Hart said it was his opinion that the majority of the community was in favour of retaining the land and endorsed the staff recommendation. The decision has been welcomed by Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, activists and ecologists and 13 community groups which combined to oppose the selloff. Tesch said the decision reinforced that the people’s voice counts. “The community’s voice on this issue is clear and strong,”

she said. “In the online poll, Central Coast residents expressed their overwhelming preference to retain the site in Council/ community ownership. “I applaud Rik Hart’s commitment that the future of the site will be completely guided by the community’s response to the formal consultation process. “The community has said loud and clear that they oppose the destruction of this beautiful stand of mature trees. “As I said) earlier this year, I believe that investment in greening of our community should not be dependent on the destruction of dozens of mature trees, which are home to native birds and animals. “Greening of our community should not be contingent on the destruction of our mature natural landscape. “The choice is clear and the community has spoken loudly.” Community Environment Chair Gary Chestnut said the group was delighted that Hart had “finally accepted” that the community wants to keep the

Several on-site protests have been held over the past year

treed reserve in public ownership. “In terms of ecologically sustainable development, this is the best outcome for the Woy Woy Peninsula now and into the future,” Chestnut said. “The mature native trees on the land … are important habitat for birds and microbats; they provide shade for the community now.” Chestnut said the concept of sacrificing the reserve for a future greening project had never been a “fair exchange”. “Central Coast Council has an obligation to provide a liveable environment on the Woy Woy Peninsula into the future as it continues to allow high rates of tree removal as single dwelling

lots are redeveloped for multidwelling and medium density housing,” he said. “Mr Hart’s statements last night that one noisy group campaigned to stop the sale … were simply incorrect. “An alliance of groups including Grow Urban Share Trees, Peninsula Residents Association, Save Our Woy Woy, Wildlife Arc, WIRES, Residents for Responsible Ettalong Development, Koolewong Tascott Point Clare Progress Association, Pearl Beach Progress Association, CEN, Save Central Coast Reserves, and the Australian Conservation Foundation Central Coast Community Group hardly represents a

small squeaky wheel. “Those groups gathered over 3000 signatures; they even took out full page newspaper ads. “CEN would now like to see Council maintain the reserve properly as a reflection of its value to the community.” Environmentalist Joy Cooper applauded the decision but said Austin Butler should never have been part of the asset sell-off program. “It was community land, with mature native trees and flood prone,” she said. “Mr Hart and then interim administrator Dick Persson promised they would not sell community land so they immediately broke that

promise. “I believe Council staff and both administrators did not do their due diligence when they initially selected Austin Butler as an easy asset to get rid of. “The support for keeping the trees in Austin Butler has been long-running and strong.” Cooper said neither Peninsula Plaza nor Council had supplied evidence that there were safety issues in the plaza car park. “I believe the strong alliance of community groups who came together to protect Austin Butler will continue to work together to make sure the Council properly maintains this valued public asset and keeps its commitment to greening the Peninsula,” she said. Cooper also criticised Council for spending money on a community poll when residents had already made their feelings clear, with 3,000 signatures on a petition opposing the sale. Perhaps seeing the writing on the wall, Peninsula Plaza advised Council prior to the meeting that it had withdrawn its offer to purchase.

Copa Christmas collection The Copacabana community will once more pitch in to help the less fortunate over the Christmas period. A collection of new toys and items to be given to the Salvation Army for distribution

to the “not so lucky” will be held from 10am-2pm on Saturday and Sunday, December 2 and 3. Conducted by the Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association, the appeal will be held outside Copacabana Medical Centre.

Due to COVID-19, secondhand toys cannot be accepted this year. Roque Hammal has been coordinating the appeal for more than 16 years. “We have had an average of 150 people donating each year,

even during COVID,” he said. “We always collect at least a trailer full of goods and a few times we’ve had to deliver carloads as well.” For more information email roque.hammal@ymail.com

Some of the goods collected last year

Terry Collins

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Call for more action on climate change The Central Coast Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) is calling on Central Coast Council to be more proactive in addressing the threat posed by climate change. Convenor Mark Ellis said a recent report from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) into funding local councils highlighted climate change as an external factor that councils could not control. “The report states that climate change should be addressed in a manner that accepts the serious impacts on the communities’ health, infrastructure and housing,” he said. “Councils can have policies to mitigate their climate emissions

and increase the liveability of suburbs with increased tree plantings to reduce the heat island impacts. “The current business-asusual approach within the Council and the constant paralysis by analysis of how to fund flooding, coastal erosion and tree planting will not address the accelerating effects of the climate crisis. “To address climate change there needs to be deep structural changes to society.” Ellis said the UNEP emissions gap report highlighted the difficult job of reducing the required Co2 emissions. “IPART is correct to raise these concerns, as the question of funding is central to how climate adaptation is implemented,” he said.

Council should be putting more money into tree plantings, says the ACF

“The first step councils can start with is by focussing their budget on climate positive actions like increasing budgets on green infrastructure. “Central Coast Council only put forward $40,000 per

annum to tree planting programs yet committed over a million towards a climatedestroying airport master plan at Warnervale.” Ellis said numerous reports from the Lower Hunter and

Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy, Adapt NSW and Council’s own Greening Strategy over the past 15 years have highlighted impacts of higher temperatures across

the coast and the increasing urban heat island effect. “Although there has been no real action to address these reports, just more of the same development at all costs,” he said. “It is clear from the response to the Austin Butler reserve surveys the community wants Council to do better when it comes to reducing tree loss and increasing planting trees to ameliorate the increasing heat impacts on our towns and villages. “Will sanity prevail and more money be directed into climate adaptation, or will (it be) business as usual within the Council, continuing with the status quo of ineffectual planning laws that ignore the signs of increasing climate threats.”

Council joins the fight against domestic violence Central Coast Council is once again working with community leaders to initiate important conversations around domestic and family violence during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence campaign. The campaign runs every year from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), raising awareness and educating the community on the important issue. The Central Coast consistently has one of the highest number of incidences of family and domestic violence compared to any other local government area. Statistics show the Central Coast had the third-highest number of domestic violence related incidences in NSW from June 2022-June 2023, with the area also consistently overrepresented in statistics for Breach of Apprehended Violence Orders.

Participants in last year’s Walk Against Domestic Violence

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said Council was committed to working with the community to solve a range of social and health issues that impacted vulnerable people, such as victims of domestic violence. “The health and safety of others is everyone’s business,” she said. “Domestic abuse is not just a private matter and its impacts are felt across all levels of the community.

“Domestic and family violence is one of the largest threats to the safety of our communities. “Prevention initiatives are proven to help stop the violence before it starts. “We have been working with the community, local leaders and organisations to develop a range of programs, projects and activities in support of the national campaign to help strengthen our community.” Throughout the 16-day campaign a number of activities

A yarn bombing display will feature at the Kibble Park event

have been organised to create awareness, including Council’s annual support of the Central Coast Domestic Violence Committee’s Walk Against Domestic Violence. Starting at 10am on Wednesday, December 6, the event encourages supporters to wear an orange shirt for the walk beginning at Gosford Anglican Church, 7 Mann St, and finishing in Kibble Park Gosford. An event in Kibble Park will showcase guest speakers, live entertainment, information

stalls and more. Visitors to Kibble Park will see art installations during the campaign such as houses suspended in trees representing that a home should be a safe place and a Zonta Tree Yarn Bombing highlighting all the different forms of domestic violence and the support available for victims and bystanders. Council is also developing a children’s story book which aims to promote ageappropriate messages to

preschoolers about healthy relationships. The book will be launched in May 2024 as part of Domestic Violence Month, and a special preview of pages will be on show in Kibble Park. Council Administrator Rik Hart encouraged the community to get behind the campaign. “We must all speak up against family and domestic violence and encourage others to break the cycle in order to make the Central Coast a safe place for everyone,” he said. “We can all play a role in stopping violence by taking action if we see or suspect any form of abuse. “It can be as simple as providing contact numbers, educational material or when someone’s safety is at risk, reporting it to the police.” Find out more on the community events by visiting centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/16days or find out what help is available in the community by searching ‘family violence’ on Council’s website.

Reid calls for fairer petrol prices Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid is demanding an explanation on why petrol prices on the Central Coast are so high. Reid said people in the region were paying more for petrol than those in other regions and wanted an explanation for the disparity. “It is no secret that on the Central Coast, motorists here often pay 20-30 cents more per litre (than people in other areas),” Reid said.

“The people on the Central Coast deserve an explanation. “I have written to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and raised this issue. “I receive a high volume of correspondence about petrol prices and the disparity that occurs between our region and others. “It is time the ACCC investigates this matter appropriately and provides a detailed explanation.

“I will continue to raise this matter with the Australian Government and update our community on the response from the ACCC.” Reid said in his letter he had received correspondence claiming that petrol sold in Sydney and country towns such as Orange and Bathurst was 40 cents per litre cheaper than on the Central Coast. “It is not fair that some Australians are paying less for petrol while others are paying

ridiculously more,” he said. “Why are petrol companies charging higher prices to Central Coast motorists with no explanation? “I request the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission investigate and provide a response as to why this in equity is taking place.” Source: Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid is asking for an explanation for high petrol costs on the Coast

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Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Attending the 2023 LGNSW Annual Conference

It was great to attend this year’s Local Government New South Wales Annual Conference from 12-14 November alongside Council’s CEO, David Farmer. The conference saw a high turnout of council representatives where Councillors from all over the state debated and voted on key industry matters and observed presentations by Members of Parliament, panellists, and other speakers. It’s clear the key challenges for councils are largely consistent across the state. In particular, the challenge to address increasing demand for services and infrastructure with diminishing and/or inconsistent financial resources to do so due to a variety of external pressures (inflation, state government cost shifting etc.) has been a primary takeaway from the conference. During the conference, motions are presented for Council delegates to cast their vote on. I was pleased to support a number of items, including items 18 and 26 which were motions passed to review the Local Government Act 1993, as I’m pleased to see reform is proposed here. Other motions passed supported further investigation into financial sustainability of councils and moved to consider the state of local government assets and the emergency services levy – 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 for local government and ultimately, for you – the community – going forward.

North Avoca Path Project complete

Union Picnic Day closure

Residents and drivers through North Avoca will now benefit from new footpaths, street drainage, retaining walls, street trees, kerb and guttersing, as well as a new road pavement. The project was made possible by Australian Government funding and a Council contribution.

Find out more by searching ‘North Avoca path project’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Cleaning community water pipes As part of our ongoing maintenance works to improve water quality, we have completed a six-week intensive program of cleaning water pipes across the Coast.

The scheduled cleaning helps to improve water quality by removing any sediment and mineral deposits from internal pipe walls.

We appreciate your patience during these types of works. For more information, search ‘scheduled works’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council offices will be closed on Friday 1 December for a Local Government State Award approved Union Picnic Day. Some of Council’s services and facilities will be closed or have changes, however essential services will continue.

For urgent reports or issues, please call 4306 7900. Non-urgent reports or enquiries can be submitted via our online Customer Service Centre. For more information go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Christmas on the Coast

The magic of Christmas on the Coast returns, with Town Centre Carols, larger than life Christmas trees, lights and bauble displays, and visits from Santa to ensure the Coast sparkles with Christmas fun.

Discover a Christmas Wonderland in Gosford, Wyong, The Entrance and Toukley - designed to bring the community together and spread joy across the region.

To find out more about Christmas on the Coast and other festive activities taking place this December, visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/Christmas

Next Council meeting will be held at Wyong on Tuesday 12 December. Search ‘council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s on

Did you know?

Walk against domestic and family violence

International Day for People with a Disability

Wednesday 6 December 10am Kibble Park, Gosford

It’s International Day of People with Disability on 3 December. We are continuing to work with community and stakeholders to raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by people with a disability, to help create a more inclusive Central Coast.

Grab an orange shirt and show your support in the annual awareness raising walk.

To hear some local stories and highlights from our Disability and Inclusion Action Plan, search ‘International Day of People with Disability 2023’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Find out how at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/16days

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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Controversy continues over state forest logging Community group Camp Ourimbah has accused Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) of a lack of truth, transparency and respect shown to the community over the controversial logging of Ourimbah State Forest (OSF). Founder Ursula Da Silva said the community had campaigned for almost three years against logging in the native forest characterised by old growth rainforest remnants, sandstone rocky outcrops, shaded tributaries and riparian habitat. “There is a lot of glossy misinformation in (statements made) by Forestry Corporation in a Coast Community News article on October 26,” she said. “I don’t believe FCNSW will be replanting the recently logged 300 acres of forest as the areas they logged in 2020 were not replanted and now have lantana growing in them. “Instead, their logging compartments have been left as a giant fire hazard for the Central Coast strewn with discarded logging debris.” Resident Brian Davies, who was actively campaigning against logging behind his property along Toobys Creek in 2003, said FCNSW certainly did not engage in any replanting. “There are supposed to be rules to mitigate damage but

Drone footage showing the forest prior to and following this year’s logging operations

no-one seemed to check,” he said. “The roads along the creek banks were graded and dirt pushed over the edge into the creek. “Log dumps were built close to the creek and gullies that feed it. “Prior to logging we used to walk along the banks of the creek on a regular basis as it was a beautiful rainforest walk. “We were appalled by what happened during logging.” Another resident active in the campaign, Deb Chu, said Canada Drop Down Creek and Ourimbah Creek have already been damaged by logging activities. “These creeks are known habitat for platypus, and Canada Drop Down Creek is

also mapped Key Fish Habitat,” she said. “It is of sufficient complexity to support endangered ecological communities. “Unfortunately, the antisiltation runoff measures employed by FCNSW are inadequate. “Soil runoff is already evident after the relatively mild rainfall on the Central Coast in the past few weeks.” She said it was difficult to see how assertions that recently logged areas functioned as escape ‘corridors’ for wildlife, and staging areas for firefighting in the event of summer bushfires would work. “In Ourimbah State Forest many of the potential ‘staging areas’ and harvested ‘corridors’ contain enormous amounts of

logging debris,” she said. “Large thick piles of bark are pushed into ‘windrows’ skirting the ‘staging areas’ right on the edge of the surviving forest. “Huge mounds of tree debris, including large tree trunks and branches, are also pushed up against the forest edge. “Former fire trails have been blocked with felled tree debris.” Ecologist Sally Alldis said claims that logged areas also served as refuges and exit points for wildlife during bushfires were misleading. “Wildlife are more prone to take refuge in adjacent areas of rainforest, riparian or wet sclerophyll vegetation than they are in open disturbed areas that offer no standing habitat with limited food or water sources available,” she

said. “Additionally the forest was not burnt in the 2019-2020 fires and is therefore a vital habitat refuge within the greater landscape. “To continue to log Ourimbah State Forest is to diminish quality habitat for wildlife during the recovery of other areas.” Camp Ourimbah says recent logging operations have left the forest with an intensified risk of fire, with Professor David Lindenmayer from the Australian National University saying forests are more flammable for up to 70 years after they are logged. “The logging aftermath of FCNSW’s July-August harvest this year and from past years has added to Ourimbah forest’s

fuel burden,” resident Deb Chu said. “The areas that were logged in the forest in 2020 still have large debris piles waiting to be burnt.” A request that this logging debris be immediately converted to mulch in order to mitigate the current fire risk has been lodged with FCNSW by Camp Ourimbah to no avail. “If you wish to participate in the solution to a catastrophic bushfire please go online and fill in a form on the Rural Fire Service’s website,” Da Silva said. “It is a public hazard form and the area of concern is Middle Ridge Rd, Ourimbah State Forest.” She said the industrial-style modern logging practice of harvesting about every 20 years prevented trees from growing to the true maturity needed for a balanced and thriving forest ecosystem. “Logging over time reshapes the ecology of native forests such as our Ourimbah State Forest,” she said. “Instead of logging the forest for wood chips at taxpayers’ expense, we could conserve our forest for ecotourism, cultural heritage and conservation, meaning more jobs, a healthy, thriving forest ecology and community and a safer future.”

Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation welcomed On Tuesday, November 28, NSW became the final state in Australia to implement a Voluntary Assisted Dying Law. Dying with Dignity (DWD) NSW Director and Central Coast resident Dr Stephanie Short has welcomed the endof-life option for eligible, terminally ill residents of NSW who are experiencing intolerable suffering. Short said that after 50 years of lobbying the day was one of mixed emotions for most advocates. “There will be feelings of

relief, but there will also be a touch of sadness, as we remember all of the courageous individuals who worked so hard and shared their personal experiences during the campaign,” she said. To mark the historic milestone, Dying with Dignity NSW held a private gathering at NSW Parliament House to thank the dedicated members and supporters who worked so hard, for so long, to achieve law reform in NSW. “Our heartfelt thanks will, of course, extend to those members of NSW Parliament who supported this much-

needed legislation, and to the Voluntary Assisted Dying Implementation Team at NSW Health who have worked so hard over the past 18 months to prepare for this day,” DWD NSW President Penny Hackett said. Short said all five Central Coast State MPs had supported the Bill. “The Central Coast Members of Parliament worked as a team to get the legislation over the line in Parliament in May 2022: Liesl Tesch, Adam Crouch, David Harris, David Mehan and Yasmin Catley.

“We recognise and thank them all.” DWD NSW CEO Shayne Higson said the legislation would provide enormous peace of mind for many individuals. They can regain some level of control and if they choose to, they will have the option to die peacefully at a time and place of their choosing,” Higson said. NSW Health will integrate voluntary assisted dying for eligible people into end-of-life care in the NSW Health System. Further information can be obtained from the NSW Health Team.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch (front right) with Bill co-sponsor Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich (front left) and members of the Central Coast group of Dying with Dignity

Community garden continues to blossom

SWAMP members Sue Crough and Sue Bradley inspect the gardens with Member for Wyong David Harris

The Sustainable Wetlands Agricultural Makers Project (SWAMP) at Tuggerah is going ahead in leaps and bounds following receipt of a $12,000 grant through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program

which was used to buy raised garden beds and soil for the community garden. The raised garden beds are made for easy accessibility for more community members to enjoy gardening. The space has been created

for people to connect and grow a community whether they are new to the area or just want to learn ways to grow and eat food. Member for Wyong David Harris said the project enhanced the community with its access to local fresh produce and tips on gardening.

“SWAMP members have done an amazing job improving the space and continue to complete projects from the existing grant including an awning, frames and netting for the garden beds and timber to raise the existing garden beds,” he said.

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Funding for veteran and family hub RSL LifeCare has received $1.7 million in funding from the Federal Government’s Veteran Wellbeing Grants One-Off Program to establish a veteran and family hublike experience on the Central Coast region – home to an estimated 7,993 veterans. The significant grant will be put towards leasing and fitting out a purpose-built property in the Wyong area and is expected to be open by July next year. The facility will go a long way in expanding veteran support network in the Central Coast region, as well as enabling RSL LifeCare, with support from RSL NSW, to deliver dedicated services required by veterans and their families. “The Veteran Wellbeing Grants One-Off Program highlights the Albanese Government’s continued

commitment to veterans and their families,” Head of RSL LifeCare Veteran Wellbeing Centres James Dallas said. “This investment will enable RSL LifeCare to expand our network of Veteran Wellbeing Centres, addressing the specific needs of veterans and their families on the Central Coast.” The Veteran Wellbeing Grants One-Off Program was established to complement and build on the Government’s existing Veterans’ and Families’ Hub program. Through the grants, the Government provided almost $17 million in funding towards 21 projects that can be swiftly implemented to address the immediate needs of veterans and their families in critical areas. “The Central Coast is home to a significant veteran community, and this grant will

Minister for Veterans Affairs Matt Keogh and Member for Dobell Emma McBride

improve access to services and supports, close to home,” Federal MP for Dobell Emma McBride said. “RSL LifeCare has been delivering for our veterans’ community for years, and I’m

proud that the Albanese Labor Government is supporting their work here.” Minister for Veterans Affairs Matt Keogh said the program supported larger projects that could be implemented quickly

to deliver the services that veterans and families needed in area they needed it most. “The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has made it clear there is no time to waste in improving services and supports to the veteran community,” he said. He said the program demonstrated the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to providing support to established and innovative ex-service organisations and veteran service providers in the communities’ veterans live, to deliver a better future for veterans and families. Organisations like RSL LifeCare were invited to apply for funding for projects based on factors such as the nature and maturity of the project, the project’s ability to provide support to areas with significant Defence and veteran

populations, local needs and the availability or access to existing services. RSL LifeCare has served Australia for over 110 years with its origins at Bare Island at Botany Bay in 1911 and has been caring for Australia’s war veterans and seniors ever since. Presently, the organisation has over 3,500 team members providing care and services to over 13,000 community members with a purpose to enrich the lives of veterans and seniors. A leader in senior living, RSL LifeCare provides high quality personal home care, retirement living villages, and residential aged care homes in over 60 sites throughout NSW and the ACT, providing a holistic and veteran-centric set of services aimed at supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families.

Little Terns are coming back to nest As the Little Terns start to arrive at Karagi Point, The Entrance North, to begin nesting, Central Coast Council has issued a reminder about how residents and visitors can help protect the endangered species during this critical time. Little Terns migrate from South-east Asia to Australia each year and are protected under both state and federal threatened species legislation. In recent years Council, in partnership with the community, has carried out a number of activities to help support the Little Terns nesting at Karagi Point. These actions have resulted in record-breaking breeding success and significantly contributed to the long-term

survival of the species. Council Director Environment and Planning Alice Howe said she hoped the community would continue to work with Council to keep the Little Terns safe and ensure breeding success. “We have been working hard to ensure the nesting and breeding area makes the Little Terns feel comfortable and safe to breed and so have put a number of measures in place to assist in protecting them,” she said. “We know how exciting it is to see these rare birds nesting, but we ask visitors to the reserve to keep back from the fenced area as the Little Terns are highly sensitive to disturbance and can abandon their nest site if they feel unsafe.

Little Terns are returning to the Central Coast Photo: Andrew Robinson

“The best way to get a close look at the Little Terns is by visiting the Central Coast Visitors Centre at The Entrance and checking out our nesting display. “The birds we have on display at the Visitors Centre were

collected under licence last breeding season, and taxidermied so we could help the community to understand them just that little bit more.” In consultation with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW Biodiversity

and Conservation Division, Council has installed robust temporary fencing and signage around the breeding area to protect the eggs and chicks – but there’s more that can be done. Council needs the support of the community in keeping the area litter free, not feeding seagulls and other birds, avoiding unnecessary noise, not flying kites or drones over the area and reporting fox sightings to Council, as well as keeping cats in at night and dogs away from Karagi Point (dogs are prohibited in the area at all times). Council Administrator Rik Hart said the region was lucky to have the endangered species visit from as far away as East Asia every Summer. “It’s pleasing to see the Little

Terns continue to use this particular site for nesting, which is a reflection of Council’s management efforts over the past few years,” he said. “I want to thank the Council staff for their commitment to protecting these rare birds, as well as the community for being respectful of the nesting site. “I hope we can keep working together so we continue to enjoy these special visitors and their growing families.” Find out more about the Little Terns and how to help protect them by visiting centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/littleterns The project is also supported in part by the NSW Government’s Saving our Species program.

Trails for Change set for Putty Beach MedEarth will launch its annual charity fundraiser, Trails for Change, at Putty Beach on Sunday, December 3, as it makes strides to save lives and the planet. Starting from Puttys Beach in Bouddi National Park, walkers and runners will have the option of either a 11km or 21km course to help raise $80,000 for MedEarth, allowing the charity to continue to recover and redistribute lifechanging medical supplies and equipment to developing countries and disadvantaged communities across Australia. “Every year, millions of

children die before their fifth birthday – mostly in developing countries, and mostly because of preventable illnesses and the lack of resources to treat them,” MedEarth Co-Founder Laura Taitz said. “In our world, illness is universal but access to care is not. “Our annual Trails for Change event provides people with an opportunity to support MedEarth’s vital work by either running or walking one of the most spectacular trails in NSW. “Every dollar has a huge impact. “A donation of $200 supports

Competitors at last year’s event

the recovery of essential medical equipment, such as machines and items commonly

found in an ICU ward, that can help save the lives of many young children and babies.”

Trails for Change has a number of charity partners, including Australian B Corp and sustainable packaging enterprise, BioPak. BioPak CEO Gary Smith said the company was proud to support the incredible work delivered by the MedEarth team. “At BioPak, our vision is a world without waste,” he said. “MedEarth not only aligns with this core value by preventing medical equipment and supplies ending up in landfill but by further helping some of the world’s most vulnerable communities receive life-changing medical

support.” Smith said he and many others from the company would take part in the December event. “We encourage our wider community to get involved and help raise awareness and funds for such an important cause,” he said. As little as $10 can save about $1,000 of usable medical equipment and items that would otherwise end up in landfill. For more information or to register for Trails for Change, go to trailsforchange.com.au

THURSDAY, 30 NOVEMBER 2023

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Top environmentalists applauded by CEN

Council picnic day The Environment

Central Coast Council offices will be closed on Friday,December 1, for a Local Government State Award approved Union Picnic Day and will re-open Monday, December 4. Some of Council’s services and facilities will be closed or have changes, but essential services will continue to operate. Check out closures at www. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Surf club funding Surf Life Saving Clubs are being encouraged to apply for their share of $5.25M in funding for the upgrade, restoration or construction of facilities across the Central Coast. Category 1 for facility improvements under $100,000 closes on December 11; Categories 2 and 3 for larger projects up to and above $500,000 close on January 31. Details: visit www.sport.nsw. gov.au/grants/surf-clubfacility-program For more on these stories visit our website. See front page for QR code and URL.

Community Network (CEN) announced the winners of the 2023 BE A TEAM (BAT) Awards at its annual Networking Night on Friday, November 17, with Ursula Da Silva taking the top award. Deputy Chair John Asquith the awards used the terminology of cricket to emphasise the importance of teamwork and showing up when working to protect nature and advocating for sustainability. “I have observed over my career how many times just being there to say ‘hey … why is that wetland being cleared or filled in?’ can prick the conscience of those who are making the decisions,” Asquith said. “You can have a big influence if you are prepared to be there and you are prepared to speak out.” Ursula Da Silva was the winner of this year’s major BAT award as “a person who has put in a valiant effort on behalf of the environment/ sustainability”. “Ursula has led Camp Ourimbah, the group campaigning to stop logging in

BAT Award winner Ursula da Silva (centre) with CEN’s Sam Willis, Gary Chestnut and John Asquith; Special recognition for Richard Weller from Climate Future (centre)

the Ourimbah State Forest, for several years,” her nomination said. “She has been the leader caring for the state forest, its animals, plants and birds – the whole ecosystem. “She has been tireless in her devotion. “She has developed and educated a group of supporters and networked with other groups to end logging in native forests in NSW. “She is inspirational and effective. “She has been a beacon of inspiration – dedicated, focused, intelligent and effective.” CEN also presented a Special Recognition Award to Richard Weller, leader of Climate Future – a group dedicated to raising awareness about the climate

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crisis. The 2023 Best 12th Man or Woman Award was presented to Woy Woy Peninsula activist and President of the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) Central Coast Group, Mark Ellis, as “somebody who has worked quietly in the background to support others in the front line and help keep them afloat”. “Mark Ellis has been quietly ever-present at community meetings, council meetings, rallies, workshops, drop-in sessions and community consultations,” his nomination said. “His main interest has been the Wamberal seawall, a campaign he has been a part of since the 1990s. “He is convenor of ACF Central Coast and a member of many other committees,

working groups and community environmental initiatives. “Mark is not a grandstander; he works consistently and quietly and is deserving of being this year’s 12th Man.” The 2023 Rookie of the Year Award went to Woy Woy resident and member of the Mingaletta Aboriginal Corporation at Umina, Coral Roberts. “Coral has pulled out all stumps to campaign to protect the trees in Austin Butler AC at Woy Woy,” her nomination said. “She has letterbox dropped, handed out flyers at train stations, gathered thousands of signatures on a petition, lobbied the local MP, attended events, spoken at council meetings and even spontaneously interrogated the Administrator over tea and

bickies. “She is truly a champion of the Austin Butler trees; a grandmother and a First Nations elder, she ticked all the boxes for Rookie of the Year.” The Most Outstanding Community Organisation for 2023 was Future Sooner – a group that has worked tirelessly on behalf of the environment/ sustainability. CEN CEO Samantha Willis, said the Network congratulated all BAT Award winners on their outstanding achievements in support of nature. “Our BAT Award winners are extraordinary people and groups who work tirelessly to uphold the principles of ecologically sustainable development and we are so pleased to be able to recognise their efforts,” she said.

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Walkley award for Joanne McCarthy Central Coast journalist Joanne McCarthy has been recognised with an Outstanding Contribution to Journalism award at the annual Walkley Awards for Excellence in Journalism and dedicated her win to young climate change activists. “The great moral challenge of our time is climate change,” McCarthy said. “The point of view should (come from) the young – not bloody baby boomer politicians and the vested interests,” she said to applause at the awards ceremony in Sydney on November 23. “So I dedicate this to those young activists out there. “I also dedicate it to them because they are standing up for my grandchildren.” The Walkley is the latest in a series of accolades for the journalist whose two main bodies of work with the

Joanne McCarthy at the Walkley Awards

Newcastle Herald led to an inquiry into women’s health and a Royal Commission into child sexual abuse. McCarthy wrote more than 1,000 articles on Catholic Church child sex abuse cases from 2006 and won

the Gold Walkley in 2013. The Royal Commission ran for five years from 2012 and heard from 6,875 survivors of abuse, conducted 57 public hearings and held 444 hearing days. McCarthy said that every day

was a moral decision about what to do and as a journalist she loved that, but when there was no morality from the people who really should be doing things, that was corrosive. “It was systems and institutions that failed, men of

a certain ilk, who liked making decisions and calling the shots but weren’t crash hot on transparency and accountability,” she said. “Systems don’t fail, institutions don’t fail because of one decision maker. “They fail because of tons and tons, hundreds and thousands of bad decisions; people who could make decisions in the public interest – to do the right thing, to look after the vulnerable – don’t. “They make excuses and that is the easiest way to explain it. “They prioritise things that should not be prioritised like the reputation of the institution, their own personal ambitions, or they just don’t want to be involved. “If I had a dollar for every person who said they didn’t want to be involved – we all know them.” McCarthy joked that she used to write about coal mining in

the Hunter as light relief. “There’s nothing like having a blue with a multi-national mining company to put a zip in your step,” she joked. In 2017, McCarthy received the inaugural Walkley Public Service Journalism award for three years of work investigating the pelvic mesh scandal which led to an Australian Senate Inquiry into the devices and an apology to the women from the then Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt in 2017. McCarthy was one of eight women who received the award which the Walkley Foundation said was to redress the lack of honours given in the past to high-achieving women in the industry. A life-long resident of the Central Coast, McCarthy began her career at the Gosford Star and then the Central Coast Express before working for the Newcastle Herald.

Leadership change for River Cares After agitating for eight years to put the Lower Hawkesbury River District on the map and founding River Cares, Robyn Downham is handing over the reins of the organisation to someone new, although she will remain actively involved. “I am very proud of how River Cares has developed since its formation in July 2020,” she said. “River Cares is the point of contact for all the emergency services and other agencies and has earnt the respect of all three levels of government and established a strong relationship with the media. “River Cares has put the Lower Hawkesbury River District on the map – we are now no longer forgotten, excluded, omitted and ignored. “The boots on the ground during the March and July floods in 2022 can testify to

this. “One of the first of many River Cares achievements was fundraising for (2) AEDs ( automated external defibrillators) located at the now renamed Anchor Café in Spencer and at the Marlow Public Wharf, and subsequent funding by applying for a grant in conjunction with Sophie Wills from the Community Defib Project for an additional (4) AEDs located in Spencer at Cohens Creek and at the Malaluka Caravan Park, Oyster Shell Road in Lower Mangrove and at the bottom of the Divvy at Greengrove. “River Cares has grown far beyond anyone’s expectations but it is time for me to step down as President. “I have been the local activist since 2015 when I started campaigning alongside my counterpart Belinda Repton from Wendoree Park for a mobile tower (which was finally

Robyn Downham (centre) with new President Marlee Maxwell and Vice-President Rory Gibson

activated early in 2019). Downham also agitated to Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch in September 2017 for an upgrade of the Spencer public wharf (completed late October 2019), petitioned Central Coast Council in 2019 for new public toilets (completed January 25, 2023) and tackled countless other issues over an eight-year period, as well as being a voice

for the Lower Hawkesbury River District. Downham was named Central Coast Citizen of the Year at the 2022 Australia Day Awards ceremony conducted by Central Coast Council in recognition of her years of work for the communities of the Lower Hawkesbury. “It is time for me to hand the

baton over and it gives me great pleasure to announce that we now have a new President, Marlee Maxwell, and Vice-President, Rory Gibson, for River Cares,” Downham said. “Marlee and Rory have lived at Gunderman for over two years and have experienced first-hand the impact of extreme weather, losing property in the floods that ravaged their home located on the banks of the Hawkesbury River. “Marlee and Rory have supported River Cares and donated generously as they see the importance of the work that this community group has been conducting since its inception, not only for Spencer and Gunderman, but for the other river communities in the Lower Hawkesbury River District. “I will continue as a River Cares committee member as

Community Liaison Officer, Publicity Officer and Philanthropy Co-ordinator. “I will be assisting Marlee ease into her role as the new River Cares President especially as we move into a potentially worrying bushfire season. “River Cares still needs to continue its journey working to maintain the health, safety and well-being of the residents in this isolated part of the Central Coast LGA but we cannot do this work alone. “We still require more support and welcome new members to come on board to help us continue developing our Community-led Emergency Response Plan, participate in the CB radio project and help us build community connectivity and resilience. “I am very grateful that Marlee has agreed to carry the baton for River Cares and to Rory for his ongoing support as the new Vice-President.”

New welcome signs for Ettalong

Designer Rebecca Campbell with one of the signs

Visitors to Ettalong Beach will be greeted by new welcome signs as they enter the town centre, with Peninsula Chamber of Commerce revealing the design this week. “With an evolving town centre, a number of local Ettalong Beach business owners suggested we refresh the image of our town centre to more contemporary coastal colours and images,” Chamber President Matthew Wales said.

“The result is new welcome signs that reflect the changing nature of Ettalong Beach as new development provides more residential living in the town centre and increased business opportunities. “The original signs were installed by the Chamber of Commerce in 2000 as part of our heritage themed upgrade which has now evolved into a more coastal beach theme.” Wales said the new signs were designed by Rebecca

Campbell from Rebecca Campbell Creatives, who coincidently was the winner of the Chamber of Commerce’s logo design competition for Umina Beach in 1999. “Rebecca was only 17 years old when she was already showing great talent in graphic design,” Wales said. “She went on to study graphic design and recently started her own business locally. “Rebecca loves living on the

Peninsula and says it’s a wonderful community to raise her family. “We are very proud to have that talent available to create the new signs and mark a generational change in our community. “We thank our sponsors Ettalong Diggers Club and the Galleria Ettalong Beach as well as The Box on the Water Restaurant for their generous financial contribution towards the new signs.”

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POLICE BRIEFS Elderly assault victim dies A 90-year-old woman has died in hospital following an alleged sexual assault at an aged care facility at Bateau Bay on November 15. Police allege a man broke into the facility and assaulted and sexually assaulted the woman, who was taken to hospital suffering serious injuries. On Friday, November 17,

detectives attached to State Crime Commands Sex Crimes Squad charged a man who remains before the courts. Police have since been notified the woman died in hospital on Tuesday, November 28. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner as investigations continue.

Tragic death of young girl A five-year-old girl has died after being found unresponsive in a bathtub at a Forresters Beach home. She was found unconscious at about 5.45pm on Sunday, November 26. Westpac Rescue helicopter landed a critical care team at Pat Morley Oval to assist NSW

Ambulance Paramedics in treating the child before the ambulance took her to Gosford Hospital, where she died shortly afterwards. Officers from Brisbane Water Police District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident with a report to be prepared for the coroner.

Cars needed for rescue training The Central Coast Volunteer Rescue Squad has put out a call to the community for vehicle donations for road crash rescue training. They will happily take any vehicle, big or small, running or not from the North Wyong to

Charmhaven area, but it must have wheels, for collection purposes. Contact the rescue squad via the Facebook page – Central Coast Rescue Squad – VRA Rescue NSW.

Presentation on coercive control law The final meeting for 2023 of the Central Coast Aboriginal Interagency Network (CCAIN) was hosted by Tuggerah Lakes Police District at Wyong Police Station on Thursday, November 23. The CCAIN provides a forum to share information, strategies and programs, that empower the Aboriginal community to fully access all available services, programs, facilities and to achieve specific service provision which is culturally appropriate. CCAIN members comprise Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal government and non-

Last Aboriginal network meeting for 2023

government service providers, workers and community members, committed to sharing information to improve access to services and outcomes for the Aboriginal community.

More than 30 people attended last Thursday’s meeting. Sergeant Jerrod Luck of the Tuggerah Lakes Domestic Violence Team gave a presentation on the Coercive Control legislation that comes

into effect mid 2024, which generated a lot of discussion and questions. The next CCAIN meeting will be held in February, 2024.

Man in court over sex offence A Sydney man was refused bail to appear in Waverley Local Court over several alleged sexual offences on the Central Coast Detectives attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District, with the assistance of the State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad, established Strike Force Duros, following reports of an alleged sexual assault at Killarney Vale earlier this month.

Following inquiries, officers from Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command attempted to speak with a 48-year-old male at Roscoe St, Bondi, at about 3.45pm on Wednesday, November 22, over an ongoing investigation. It will be alleged that the man ran from police, before a foot pursuit commenced. Following a joint operation involving officers from multiple commands within the NSW

Police Force, the man was arrested on Curlewis St, Bondi, about an hour later. He was taken to Waverley Police Station where he was charged with the following offences: eight counts of stalk/ intimidate intend fear physical etc harm; four counts of aggravated sexual assault – deprive liberty; two counts of take etc person intend commit serious indictable offence; two counts of sexually touch

another person without consent; incite another to sexually touch them without consent; sexually touch another person without consent; take and drive conveyance without consent of owner; and negligent driving. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw. crimestoppers.com.au

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FORUM

Where are our Federal MPs? I am one of those people that still love to flick through a local newspaper (hard copy) and really appreciate your local paper. I was just reading the latest edition and it prompted me to reflect on the following. Upon reading Issue 417 of the Coast Community News, we could all be forgiven for thinking we only have one invested and visible Federal Member of Parliament on the Central Coast. There were no less than nine separate articles and photographs of Labor Member

FORUM for Robertson Gordon Reid, not including the full-page advert promoting his office. Now I am not suggesting Coast Community News has any particular partiality for Reid, but it certainly highlights the lack of visibility of other elected representatives at all levels on the Central Coast. As reported, Reid presents as an energetic Federal MP promoting his work in his elected area of Robertson. Which leaves me wondering,

where is everyone else? Where are the elected members for Dobell and Shortland? Do residents of the northern end of the Central Coast even know who their elected members are? Unfortunately, in my electoral precinct of Shortland our area does not seem to get a look in as we are on the very southern end of the electorate in competition with Lake Macquarie and lower Newcastle suburbs. Our area has a substantial and dire need for community/

social supports, including but not limited to, affordable housing, medical (bulk billing), mental health, youth support, training, employment, drug and alcohol supports, and public transport services. I know our elected MPs have other portfolios and roles that take their focus away from local issues; however I would ask them to take a leaf out of Gordon Reid’s book and be visible (not just preceding an election) and engage with constituents. Email, Nov 26 Trish Liddell, Budgewoi

A warning to shoppers I was doing my normal routine shopping on Saturday, November 11, at Deepwater Plaza. I had been to the ATM, returned some plates to Kmart and bought two t-shirts and then went to the newsagency to place my weekly lotto tickets, always hoping to win the big one. However it was the woman and her daughter behind me who hit the jackpot. I inadvertently left my purse on the counter.

FORUM After realising I had left it behind, I went back, but the woman and her daughter had already taken it - not realising they were on camera. I reported it to security on duty and the police and went home to cancel my credit cards, as I had a lot of ID in my purse. I rang Crime Stoppers; they showed concern. On Monday morning I went through all channels and cancelled everything that had a

cash value; Centrelink detail, Flybuys, Woolworths Rewards, licence etc. The local police returned my wallet on Wednesday, four days later (it had been dumped at the Reject Shop). They had taken all my Christmas money, totalling $400, or near to that amount. I hope they enjoyed spending it; I won’t have that choice now. I wish to thank the staff at the newsagency for their help and support. Also centre management,

staff at the Reject Shop for their honesty and the local police for being diligent and taking notice of my predicament. I know people are desperate and in need this time of the year, but does it excuse this kind of behaviour? The police have not closed my case and will be following it up via security cameras at the centre and the Reject Shop. Email, Nov 25 KMS, Woy Woy (name withheld for security reasons)

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What’s happening with intersection upgrade? I am writing with concern over the neglect of the upgrade to the intersection of Wards Hill Rd and Empire Bay Dr. It has been mooted for upgrade for some time, and it seems the current Labor governments, State and Federal, are withdrawing the funds to get it and other projects completed. I am retired now but when I was fortunate to be working, it was with the RTA and I helped design many a site for traffic lights, which was preferred for long-term safety. Also, I have found a lot of other projects started by the previous federal government, now finished, being solely credited to Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, which

FORUM See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper is not true. It would be nice if he acknowledged the previous member Lucy Wicks, who from memory got the funding for most projects; for example the Medical School and Medical Research Centre. Email, Nov 27 Gaye Clark, North Gosford

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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30 NOVEMBER 2023

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Christmas Fair returns – at a new venue Santa and friends will be there again this year

The Central Coast Christmas Fair is set to return on Sunday, December 3, from 9am2pm, at a new venue. Now in its 16th year, the huge outdoor event will this year be held at Mingara Recreation Club at Tumbi Umbi. The team at Hart Events is making the event free to encourage people to support the region’s small, local makers

and creators to end a rough year on a high. On offer will be local handmade gifts, arts, crafts, clothing and fresh produce from more than 160 vendors. Browse everything from summer sun dresses to outdoor furniture, from fresh cherries to handmade glass ornaments, from international pick ‘n’ mix lollies to handcrafted leather products.

While you’re shopping, catch a festive tune from buskers scattered around the site from Fairplay Entertainment. If you need a break from shopping, don’t forget to explore all the foods from the international food vendors on site selling gozleme, southern fried chicken, Greek food, dumplings and much more. Take a seat in the shade while watching some of the Coast’s best local talent on

SANTA SELFIE PHOTOS Say hello to Santa and take your Every child visiting Santa own photo! will receive a free gift!

the live stage. The children won’t be bored either with Party Chameleon providing free lawn games such as giant Jenga, bowling and giant blocks, running races, Christmas characters and free face painting all day. The Crud Muffins will curate a vibrant creative space for all kids (even the big kids), filled with nostalgic whimsy designed to indulge the senses and fill the heart with joy.

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there on an old-school fire truck and there will be delightful dancing and singing elves roaming the event spreading Christmas joy and handing out free candy canes. There is lots of free parking on site at Mingara, but premium parking right next to the entry is also on offer. All event information is available at www.hartevents. com.au or email info@ hartevents.com.au

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*Terms and conditions apply. Visit villagecentralwyong.com.au for details.

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Thousands flock to Lakes Festival More than 10,000 visitors helped inject more than $1.5M into the Central Coast economy during the recent Lakes Festival.

The Entrance came alive with music during the Lakes Festival

Not even the rain could dampen the spirits of attendees at the eighth Lakes Festival, which offered more than 30 exciting family activities, cultural and educational programs hosted by local organisations and businesses over 10 days. Central Coast Council Unit Manager Community and Culture Glenn Cannard said the festival had earned its spot on the calendar as an iconic Central Coast event. “The Lakes Festival is one of

our region’s biggest events, with this year’s festival injecting more than $1.5M into the local economy as a result,” Cannard said. “While there was the cancellation of some activations due to heavy rainfall, pleasingly our flagship event Light Up the Lake still went on and attracted nearly 5,000 people.” Council Administrator Rik Hart said the wide range of events that featured on this year’s festival program played a big part in attracting the crowds. “This family-friendly event continues to be popular among locals and visitors and wouldn’t be possible without the creative ideas from local businesses

who take part,” he said. “Council held the first Lakes Festival in 2015 and the response from the community has been extremely positive, so I’m sure it will continue to grow in the years to come.” If you would like to be part of the Lakes Festival in 2024, Council will be seeking Expressions of Interest from new and returning businesses, companies, organisations and community groups from January 29, 2024. To receive information about the Expressions of Interest, contact events@centralcoast. nsw.gov.au to join the mailing list and keep an eye out on Council’s website.

Christmas market set for Woy Woy Woy Woy CWA will hold its annual Christmas Market on Sunday, December 3, from 9am to 3pm in the grounds of the hall at 30 The Boulevarde, Woy Woy. Publicity officer Jane Bowtell said a Devonshire tea would be served in the front grounds of the hall.

“There will be market umbrellas with tablecloths, fresh flowers and proper china cups and saucers all serving freshly made scones, jam and cream,” she said. “As well as the Devonshire tea there will be market stalls full of great hand-made Christmas gifts; there will surely be a gift for everyone.

“We are also selling our jams and pickles along with such goodies as toffee apples, gingerbread, shortbread, miniChristmas cakes, date loaves and vegan scones and our delicious lemonade scones.” Bowtell said the main attraction would be Santa Claus. “Not the real one as he is way

avoca Xmas twilight market saturday 9 dec 4pm-9pm | Heazlett Park

Featuring neav dingo Uncle Jed Ruby & her groovy doobies

too busy with last minute orders so he is sending one of his Santa officers to sit and take requests from children and grown-ups alike,” she said. “You can take as many photos of Santa with your children, family members or furry family members for a gold coin donation.”

Branch trivia master Dinah Jopson and President Margaret Ure get set for the Christmas Market

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Speed dating takes off on Central Coast

Lisa Longobardi at a recent Over 60s speed-dating event

More than 1,200 Coasties have attended more than 100 speed-dating events conducted by Connect Social Central Coast since it was established 20 months ago. Founder Lisa Longobardi said single people were finding genuine friendship and real relationships were being started. “Lots of people have stated it’s better than internet dating and not as daunting as they thought it would be,” she said. Longobardi started the group after being single for six years

and finding a dearth of events on the Central Coast where singles could meet each other. “I sat on the idea for about three years then Covid hit – but once lockdowns were over I got started,” she said. “It’s not at all daunting … there is mingling first and we do some ice-breaker games to have a giggle before the dating begins.” “The morning after the event I send out any matches and that makes my heart full. “I don’t know where the relationships go after that initial meeting but even if people just

make new friends, anything else which might develop is a bonus.” The group has a number of events scheduled before Christmas: Friday, December 1All Ability Speed Dating – Central Coast Leagues Club; Saturday, December 2 – Speed Dating Double 50-60 years and 40-50 years – Bamboo Buddha; Sunday, December 3 – Singles Barefoot Bowls – The Ary Toukley; Thursday, December 7Over 60s Christmas Luncheon – The Ary Toukley; Saturday, December 9 – Singles Beer Tasting – Central Coast Brewery;

Friday, December 15 – Single Mingle Jingle Party – Davistown RSL; Saturday, December 16Singles Yoga – Komuniti Long Jetty; Saturday, December 16 – Paint and Sip Workshop – Village Cafe Noraville; and Sunday, December 17 – Newcastle Singles Mixer – Honeysuckle Social. For more details, visit the website at connectsocial centralcoast.com or the Connect Social Central Coast Facebook page. Tickets for all events are available through humantix.

Concert to celebrate joy of Christmas The Central Coast Chorale will present Christmas on the Coast on Sunday, December 3, reinforcing the season’s universal offer of hope, joy and love for all humanity irrespective of race or beliefs. “In this time of turbulence, suppression, hate and ‘alternative truths’, Christmas also offers us the hope of peace with one another and within ourselves,” a Chorale spokesperson said. “The Central Coast Chorale,

with Music Director Christopher Bowen, takes great delight in inviting everyone to their final concert in 2023.” Christmas on the Coast will be a festival of song celebrating the special season. Elke Hook will feature as soprano soloist and the audience will have the opportunity of joining in singing well-loved Christmas Carols. Hook will also perform at Christmas in the Sydney Town Hall on December 20. Music from all over the world will be performed, drawing

inspiration from many lands; Mexico, Canada, Germany and Britain as well as Australia. “Christmas on the Coast gives us all that rare opportunity to come together as one and share not only the Christmas message but also the gift of music and song,” the spokesperson said. “The symbols of Christmas have never been more precious or meaningful as in 2023.” The concert will be held at 2.30pm on Sunday, December 3, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, East Gosford.

Musical Director Christopher Bowen; Soloist Elke

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Christmas twilight market at Avoca Don’t miss the Avoca Christmas twilight market from 4-9pm on Saturday, December 9, at Heazlett Park. Fixx Events will present the free market under the stars overlooking Avoca Lagoon, with 90-plus bespoke stalls, seasonal gifts, yummy foods, desserts, live music and Six String Brewery Bars. “This event is now in its seventh year and continues to be the favourite place for your outdoor Christmas Party with the family and friends and all in a fun, inclusive, accessible, safe and family-friendly environment,” organiser Brad Cardis said. Entertainment will include Neav, Dingo, Ruby Archer and

Uncle Jed will perform

her Groovy Doobies as well as Uncle Jed, an Australian funk, reggae and jazz band. Formed in 2005 among family members, the line-up was Danny Stitt on bass and lead

Ruby Archer delivers husky vocals

guitars, his brother Shannon Stitt on keyboards and their cousin Laura Stitt on lead vocals. In November 2013 the trio won the seventh season of the

TV reality show, Australia’s Got Talent. A self-titled album was issued in May 2010 and three of Uncle Jed’s singles covers peaked in the ARIA Singles Chart top 50.

The group briefly changed the band name to Luna Grand in May 2015 and released an extended play, Patience Love, in June. Ruby Archer is a local

18-year-old singer-songwriter who creates angry, jazzy rock with feminist undertones and husky vocals with her band the Groovy Doobies. “I reckon the power of music is one of the few magics in this world, and the way it connects people is something sacred,” she said. “I like to use this gift of the groove to convey my subconscious to anyone who cares, or anyone who doesn’t and just likes the sound of my music.” Licensed bar areas at the event are 18-plus only and all event information is available on the Fixx Events Website and the Avoca Markets Instagram and Facebook pages.

Fun Haus kicks off the silly season The Fun Haus Factory in Gosford kicks off the silly season this Thursday, November 30, with the monthly feel good The Welcome Choir singalong. Best described as karaoke on steroids, the collective pub choir is founded on the principle that everyone can sing and that it feels good, especially when done in large groups with a cold beverage. Conductor Bek Jensen, who has recorded and toured nationally with Jimmy Barnes and a host of others, will lead choristers in singing the Fleetwood Mac song Say You Love Me from 7pm.

Sonido will play on Sunday; Memphis Mae will headline at the Goosybumps Sideshow

Friday, December 1, will see burlesque, circus and variety in the Goosybumps Sideshow starring the award-winning MC

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The Dogs on the Deck event continues to grow in popularity every Saturday from 5-7pm. It’s the perfect way to unwind

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Superstar Memphis Mae at 8pm. Also on the bill will be the hula hooper with two world records,

Telstra plans to upgrade a telecommunications facility at Rail corridor adjacent 437 Glenrock Parade, Tascott, NSW 2250 (RFNSA No. 2250099) 1. The proposed facility consists of: • Replacement of two (2) existing panel antennas with two (2) new panel antennas • Installation of two (2) new 5G panel antennas; • Installation of ancillary equipment including remote radio units, tower mounted amplifiers, cabling, and works within the existing equipment cabin 2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination based on the description above. 3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code (C564:2020), we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and comments should be directed to: Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra, via email to telstra.submissions@servicestream.com.au, phone: 0487 949 301, via post to Planning Consultant, Service Stream, 129 Pilbara Street, Welshpool, WA 6106 by 5pm Friday 15 December 2023. Service Stream Ltd ABN 46 072 369 870 Telstra Ltd ACN 086 174 781 Amplitel Pty Ltd ACN 648 133 073

on a Saturday arvo with the resident DJ playing contemporary dance tunes. This week, on December 2, DJ Joe Foxton will play deep house and elevated grooves. Winding the weekend up on Sunday, December 3, will be free all ages live music over lunch and cocktails from 1pm on the deck overlooking Kibble Park with five-piece Latino band Sonido up from Sydney. Chilangos Hermanos serves fresh, authentic Mexican family recipes four days a week. Tickets for all events are available at naughtynoodle. com.au/whats-on

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ACROSS 1. Shortly 4. Ignorant 8. ... & papa 11. Manicured items 13. Dresses in 15. Boxer’s weapons 17. Obtained 18. 2016 Olympic city, ... Janeiro (3,2) 20. Compass direction (1,1,1) 21. Deciduous tree 24. Stroke (guitar) 27. Convent dweller 28. Leather strip 30. Netherlands govt centre, The ... 31. Mutineer 33. Brazilian river 34. Street march 35. Bank machines (1,1,2) 36. Pant 39. Stick together 42. Outfit (3-2) 44. Athletic sprint 45. Tossed greens 46. Dismiss 48. Purloined 49. Meted 50. Right away (1,1,1,1) 52. Detox therapy 54. Factual 55. WWII German fascists 56. More titillating 57. Ballroom dance, ... doble 60. Prince Edward’s sister

62. Receded 65. Frankfurter snack (3,3) 67. Overhaul 69. Watergate president 70. Turn inside out 72. Christmas conifer 73. Actress, ... Witherspoon 75. Red clay soil, ... rossa 77. Chicken 79. Composer, Andrew ... Webber 81. Bawl 82. Heighten 84. Medicated 85. Actor, Errol ... 86. Cordon ... cookery 87. Splotch 88. Company heads (1,1,2) DOWN 1. Rescued, ... & sound 2. Commencement 3. Crooner, ... King Cole 4. Computer operator 5. Hunting hound 6. Behaves naughtily (4,2) 7. Washstand jug 8. Type of body scan (1,1,1) 9. United (2,3) 10. Prayer’s final word 12. Arab religion 14. Provided military hardware to 16. Magnified section 19. Blunts 22. N American tribe

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23. Singing groups 25. Joined forces, ... up 26. Saturn & Neptune’s neighbour 29. Rogues 32. Seek alms 35. Blimp 37. Foot joint 38. Farm crops 40. Marine world 41. Roof overhangs 42. Festive occasions 43. Soldiers’ chaplain 44. Lion’s calls 47. Nerve 51. Sense of taste 52. Becomes mature 53. Shoo! 54. Kindling 58. Fourth month 59. Lout 61. Lecture jottings 63. Flying creatures 64. Truck fuel 65. Breeding-ground 66. Female hormone organ 68. Grind down 71. White wine, ... Riesling 72. Unsightly fat 74. Terminates 76. Widespread 78. TV bulletin 80. The U of IOU 83. South African political party (1,1,1)

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Working towards a vibrant live music scene Musicians, artists and venue providers in the live music scene on the Central Coast are being encouraged to complete the State Of The Scene – Live Music Survey to help better understand the sector’s challenges and the initiatives that will help it to thrive. Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said more than half of the state’s live music venues have been lost in the past decade, with just 137 venues left and the new initiative is a positive step in support of those who work in the live music sector. “The State Government’s live music audit will be music to the ears of the live music community – our artists, managers, promoters, venue operators, roadies, audio engineers, lighting and technical teams,

ticket sellers, merchandise retailers, and more,” she said. “Their unique voices and perspectives – and that includes the good, the bad and the ugly – need to be heard, and their contributions to the vibrancy of our community acknowledged. “This survey will help shine a light on the roadblocks holding the industry back. “I applaud the NSW Government’s vision to revive the live music industry as part of its wider vision to grow and support a bold and exciting arts and culture.” Tesch said the anonymous Live Music Survey formed part of a wider research project that would combine economic analysis, venue mapping data and audience research to inform the NSW Government’s firstever strategic policy for

Adam Brzozowski at the Link and Pin

contemporary music, and creating a vision for a vibrant arts and cultural scene in NSW. Adam Brzozowski and his partner Milly, who own and manage the Link and Pin at Woy Woy, will take part. They bought the café, small

bar, beer garden and live indie music venue almost three years ago with the main intention of supporting live, original music. Brzozowski said the survey was a pleasing development. “This is a highly positive show of support as it gives us – as

venue owners, operators and booking agents – the opportunity to provide constructive feedback to the government on the future of the live music scene in NSW,” he said. In the three years since he and Milly took over the ownership of Link and Pin, the Woy Woy venue has played host to about 450 bands from a wide range of music genres, from Latin American to country and pub rock, as well as high school bands. Brzozowski said he would like to see greater co-ordination between liquor licensing authorities, Central Coast Council and the State Government. “The state laws for live music have never been better, but if Council is not onboard, it can create challenges for live music venues such as ours,” he said.

“We support the government’s focus on new live music venues, but we also believe support needs to be given to existing venues. “We are feeling confident about the future of our venue, and live music in general, and we know how much of a cultural impact our venue is making in our little region. “Venues like ours – and the artists and musicians we support here at Link and Pin – are good for the town. “We employ locals, locals attend the venue in support of local bands, and our venue attracts visitors to Woy Woy who end up staying the night and spending time here enjoying the Central Coast. “We feel like we’re a part of that.”

Author Ashleigh over the moon to finally be published Former Central Coast resident Ashleigh Mounser has been writing since she was five years old and now, at the age of 29, her first children’s book has been published by Ford Street Publishing. Hitting the bookstores on October 1, including Book Face at Erina Fair, How to Be Cooler Than the Moon follows 11-yearold Blair Moon who has been home-schooled in a nursing home surrounded by 90-yearolds before her mother decides to enrol her in the local primary school.

A barefoot bowls champion and a bingo expert, Blair is buoyed by a decade of praise from her close circle of 90-yearold friends. She’s never stopped to question if her lime green pantsuits, highfibre diet or lofty aspirations of being president are “cool”. But if she’s going to rule the school, she’s going to need to get cool – and fast. The book is aimed at the 10– 14-year age group and has received rave reviews, a thrill for Mounser who said that while the book only took a month to write, she spent four

years trying to get it published. Mounser grew up at Empire Bay attending Empire Bay Public School and Kincumber High. Now living in Wollongong, Mounser maintains close links to the Central Coast. “This is a coming-of-age story for kids that aren’t even near ‘that age’ yet, in that it articulates the vagaries of fitting in, beginning something different for the first time, and the complexities (and absurdities) of primary school relationships in a refreshing and frequently laugh-out-loud light,” Dimity Powell wrote in

BOOK REVIEW

The 2023 Booker Prize has been awarded to Prophet Song, a dystopian vision of Ireland in the grips of totalitarianism.

with Julie Chessman

Booker Prize 2023: Ireland’s Paul Lynch wins with

Prophet Song Author: Paul Lynch Publisher: Oneworld Publications Ltd

It was written by Ireland’s Paul Lynch, 46, who has won the prestigious fiction writing prize for the first time with his sixth novel. Set in Dublin, it tells the story of a family grappling with a terrifying new world in which the democratic norms they are used to begin to disappear. Lynch said Prophet Song was inspired by the Syrian war and refugee crisis. When receiving the award he said this was a very difficult book to write; he started before his son was born and by the time he finished, his boy was able to ride a bike. Lynch’s writing is raw and evocative, capturing the essence of the time period with vivid descriptions and strong character development. On a dark, wet evening in Dublin, scientist and motherof-four Eilish Stack answers

Kids Book Review,” she said. “Blair Moon is far cooler than the moon - and funnier to boot. “Put it on your recommended reading manifesto for higher thinking upper primary schoolers.” Mounser is a prize-winning writer of poetry, fiction and film. She has a Bachelor of Creative Writing from the University of Wollongong, a Graduate Certificate in Screenwriting from AFTRS and is the recipient of three arts grants from the Bouddi Foundation for theArts,presented by John Bell

her front door to find the GNSB on her doorstep; two officers from Ireland’s newly formed secret police want to speak with her husband. The story follows three main characters; Eilish, Mark and Aine. Eilish finds herself caught within the nightmare logic of a collapsing society – assailed by unpredictable forces beyond her control and forced to do whatever it takes to keep her family together. All three are complex and deeply flawed characters with inner struggles and external

Mounser has written many books, both for children and adults. “I write children’s comedy and adult horror – it’s not an odd combination when you think Shakespeare wrote comedy and tragedy,” she said. “To finally be published is massive, I have been trying so long.” The sequel to How to Be Cooler Than the Moon is already written and Mounser said she hoped getting published would be easier next time. Denice Barnes

Ashleigh Mounser is thrilled to have her first children’s book published

challenges, making their journey all the more compelling. This creates a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The central premise is that Ireland has elected a NeoFascist nationalist government. Union leaders and other enemies of the regime start disappearing, and the country rapidly descends into civil war and poverty. The premise takes a little swallowing, but everything that Lynch describes has

happened somewhere in the world in modern times, and that may be the reason you don’t want to pick this up as it has that all-too-familiar darkness we are seeing on the news today. Lynch has the ability to transport readers to the unforgiving landscape of Ireland with beautifully crafted prose, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities faced by the characters where poverty and desperation are rampant. The Prophet’s Song is a powerful and compelling novel that showcases Paul Lynch’s talent for storytelling with its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting and thought-provoking themes. It is a genre-crossing novel. This is a book that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page and we are certainly looking forward to this being our December Book Club choice which will stimulate many conversations in January.

PAGE 20

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MP MEMBER FOR ROBERTSON

CARING FOR THE COAST

MY OFFICE CAN ASSIST WITH: • Services Australia and Medicare

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Contact Dr Gordon Reid: Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250 on 02 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au reid4robertson Authorisation by Dr Gordon Reid MP, Australian Labor Party, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250

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Somersby company named Business of the Year Managing director Ramon Atayde and wife Annabelle accept the award

Ramon Atayde was “speechless” when his company, Somersby-based ARC Ento Tech, was named the state’s Business of the Year after first taking out the Excellence in Innovation award at this year’s Business NSW Awards. “It was the first time we have been nominated and to win was unbelievable,” Atayde said. The company started just three years ago when Atayde, a

mining engineer, and his brother Ricky, an entomologist, teamed up to create a business dedicated to sustainability. “I recognised a deep problem with sustainability going forward in the steel industry and saw an opportunity to create solutions,” Atayde said. The company uses food and other organic waste to create synthetic coal for use in the steel industry in a bid to reduce energy demand. It also uses insects to make a new sustainable protein

livestock feed and fertiliser. “We need a circular economy and this is where it starts,” Atayde said. “It’s not enough just to survive – we need to thrive and prosper and to do that we have to think differently.” Premier Chris Minns officially opened the awards event to an audience of 500 people representing more than 130 businesses at Sydney’s White Bay Cruise Terminal on November 9. Minns and Small Business

Minister Steve Kamper shared their experiences of running a small business and celebrated the state’s most innovative, forward thinking and courageous businesses. “The NSW Business Awards 2023 have shown that technology and innovation is at the heart of businesses across the state – from start-ups right through to huge corporates,” Business NSW Executive Director Regional NSW Paula Martin said. “ARC Ento Tech winning Business of the Year 2023

clearly demonstrates to the world that innovation is alive and well right here on the Central Coast. “The war on waste is a worldwide problem which current waste management solutions cannot keep up with. “ARC Ento Tech has created a combo bio process using soldier flies to consume organic waste, and technology to process inorganic waste to help resolve our plastics problem and repurpose the outputs into viable products like high-grade insect meal,

high-nutrient fertiliser and an innovative industrial reductant which can replace coking coal. “More than ever, the past few years have taught us that businesses in NSW have the passion, determination and resilience to face any challenge. “The achievements of the state’s 840,000 businesses have been especially impressive in the face of spiralling insurance and energy costs, skills shortages and the state’s housing crisis.” Terry Collins

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Empire Bay is one of the best places to raise a family Empire Bay has made it onto a list of the 20 top suburbs in NSW for raising a family. Coming in at number 19, Empire Bay was the only Central Coast suburb to make the list, which was included in an incisive report released on November 13 by Property Credit. Empire Bay Progress Association President Ken Shaw welcomed the news. “My wife and I purchased our property at Empire Bay in December 2019,” he said. “We had considered many areas both within the Central Coast and northern beaches (in Sydney). “Empire Bay appealed to us as it has a great community feel, great local shops including hairdresser, barber, dental clinic, delicatessen, general store, post office, tennis club and best pizza on the Central Coast – in my opinion.

“We have a very active community association, working on several initiatives to further improve our wonderful community. “It is also only just a short trip to the train station if you want to spend a day in Sydney – perfect location, great community and facilities.” The report – Family-Friendly Living: Top 20 Suburbs for Raising a Family in Australia – unveils the finest suburbs for family living which meet stringent, family-centric criteria balancing market accessibility, affordability, community structure and quality of life. The report says extensive market data had been sifted through to select 20 standout suburbs in each state and 20 nationwide that offer the perfect concoction of affordability, community ethos and access to urban amenities, conducive to family dynamics. Property Credit CEO Giordano

Empire Bay is one of the top 20 spots in Australia for raising a family, a report has found

Stepancic said selecting a family home was a decision that transcended the physical space. “It’s about choosing a community, investing in a lifestyle and considering the legacy we leave for our children,” he said. “Our report is meticulously designed to guide families towards suburbs that are not just places to live but spaces where life’s best moments can unfold.” At a pivotal moment in the real

estate market – transitioning from a seller’s market to one that’s increasingly accommodating for buyers – the report is particularly timely. “As the market shifts, the opportunities for families are expanding,” Stepancic said. “The suburbs we’ve highlighted are transitioning to a buyers’ market, presenting a prime window for families to find a home in a community where they can truly belong.” Stepancic said the chosen

suburbs exemplified an ideal mix of suburban tranquility and urban proximity, ensuring families could enjoy a peaceful lifestyle while remaining connected to the vibrant heart of nearby cities. The study further underscores the socio-economic benefits of these areas, suggesting a strong potential for both an enhanced lifestyle and investment growth, he said. “Our research goes beyond property metrics,”

Stepancic said. “It’s about the intangibles – the community spirit,the educational opportunities and the backdrop for family life. “This report is a foundational tool for families making a pivotal decision in a market ripe with potential.” The comprehensive report is now available on Property Credit’s platform, offering an indispensable resource for families navigating the property market in these dynamic times. Factors taken into account in compiling the lists included: assessing market favourability; considering the average number of listings to gauge market health; comparing median house price to annual household income; using Census data to select suburbs with at least 50 per cent family households; setting a minimum average of 2.5 persons per household; socio-economic measure rates; and distance from major cities.

Eight-storey building proposed for Terrigal A developer wants to change planning guidelines for land on the corner of Terrigal Dr and Charles Kay Dr at Terrigal to increase the allowed building height from 8.5m to 32m. The developer also wants to allow a cafe on the ground floor of an eight-storey building with up to 50 units and amend the maximum floor space ratio from 0.5:1 to 1.4:1. The site is a vacant triangular lot comprising a site area of 4,262sqm and is zoned

The proposed development site

R1 General Residential. The application to Central Coast Council says the Planning Proposal will enable better use of the site for a greater variety and diversity of housing choices in the Central Coast. “While the skyline of Terrigal is relatively low-density and the proposed building envelope is taller than buildings in the immediate surrounding area, the building sits below the existing tree canopy and the site’s corner location acts as a prominent marker and gateway

to Terrigal Town Centre,” the application says. The site is flood affected but the development is proposed to be built above the one per cent AEP flood depths range. The proposal is being discussed by the Local Planning Panel on Thursday, November 30, before being tabled at the Council-under-administration meeting on December 12 with the Panel’s thoughts. The report to the Panel includes a Council report endorsing the proposal.

138 Robina Town Centre Drive Robina Qld 4226 PO Box 3275 Robina Town Centre Qld 4230 Tel: 1300 36 0867 Fax: 1300 81 8962 the financial planning specialist retirement adviser. email: artwork@localdirectories.com.au He is the founder of Financial profession with his strong community engagement and Edge Group. www.localdirectories.com.au

Top accolade for financial planner An Erina-based financial adviser has been named financial Adviser of the Year by the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA). The FAAA is the highest body in Australia for financial advisers, with more than 10,000 members. Specialising in retirement,

certified financial planner Martin McGrath believes he is the first Central Coast resident to win the award. With a background as a chartered accountant and a master’s degree in financial planning, McGrath has more than 15 years’ experience in the financial planning industry and is recognised as a

FAAA CEO Sarah Abood said McGrath provided strong examples of his strategic and technical advice and how this led to strong outcomes for his clients. “Martin also showed how he has gone above and beyond for

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focus on improving financial literacy, as well as his tireless commitment to professionalism,” she said. “Martin is a very deserving winner of this year’s FAAA Certified Financial Planner of the Year Award.”

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Administrator Rik Hart will have to decide if the proposal should go to the Department of Planning with his support for a Gateway Determination on the change in the zoning. If the State allows the Gateway, which lists the matters that the proposal would need to address, the proposal will be open for public comment some time next year. After that, a final proposal would be submitted to the Department for approval.

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Martin McGrath accepts the award

CONVEYANCING • Purchase & Sale of Property • Refinancing Mortgages • Purchase & Sale of Business • Leasing • Retirement Villages COURT APPEARANCES • Criminal Law • AVO Matters • Traffic Matters • Drink Driving

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MONEY TALK Strategies to Reduce Taxable Income for High Earners Author: Juston Jirwander, Company Director Are you a high-income earner seeking ways to minimise your tax liability in Australia? Taxes are inevitable, but reducing your taxable income is a legitimate and essential financial goal. In this article we will outline key strategies for high-income earners to optimise their tax situation. 1. Structure, Structure, Structure: Employ Clever Tax Saving Structures Before engaging in any business, investment, or job opportunity, carefully consider the most advantageous entity structure for your circumstances. Options include operating as a Company, Trust, Individual, Partnership, or Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF). Each entity type has its own tax rate range, ranging from 0% to 47% for individuals and partnerships, 25% to 30% for companies, 0% to 47% for

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trusts, and 15% for SMSFs. Combining different entity structures can be beneficial to maximise tax benefits. 2. Timing is key: Utilise Timing Strategies to Reduce Tax Liabilities Effective timing of income and expenses plays a crucial role in minimising taxes. Consider the following timing strategies: a. Plan the Timing of Your Income: Delay income receipt until after June 30th to defer taxes to the next financial year, particularly if the following year’s income is expected to be lower. b. Time the Sale of Assets: Optimise Capital Gains Tax (CGT) concessions by timing asset sales appropriately, taking advantage of exemptions and discounts. c. Instant Asset Write-off and Allowances: Claim immediate deductions for asset costs within the specified thresholds.

3. Know what tax benefits are available There are a range of options that may be available to assist in minimising tax. Let’s look at some of the most common ones: Use Superannuation Contributions to Save Taxes For high-income earners looking to reduce taxes, superannuation contributions offer opportunities for taxefficient savings: a. Salary Sacrificing Superannuation: Contribute pre-tax earnings into your superannuation, taxed at the concessional rate of 15%, which is lower than personal

income tax rates. b. Unused Concessional Cap Carry Forward: Carry forward unused concessional contributions cap amounts for up to five years, enabling substantial tax savings. c. Understand Australia’s ‘Death Tax’: Plan for tax implications on super benefits paid upon death, especially if adult independent children are beneficiaries. Take Advantage of Salary Packaging in a Charity For those working for charities with Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption, you can save on living expenses, such

as rent, loan payments, and general living costs, up to $15,900 tax-free. Claim for Property Depreciation Property investors can reduce taxes through depreciation claims, including Division 43 capital works deductions and Division 40 plant and equipment depreciation. Engaging a Quantity Surveyor to prepare a depreciation schedule is advisable. Use Franking Credits Wisely Leverage franking credits to reduce income tax on dividends or potentially receive tax refunds by considering the tax paid by the company when a Franked Dividend is paid. A Word of Caution: Avoid Illegal Tax Reduction Strategies Illegal methods, such as offshore accounts, fraudulent returns, and elaborate tax avoidance schemes, are not

sound strategies and can lead to severe consequences under Australian tax law. In conclusion, effective tax planning is essential for highincome earners seeking to reduce taxable income in Australia. While these strategies can provide significant tax savings, they should be tailored to your unique circumstances. Consult an experienced tax accountant to design a tax plan that suits your specific needs and goals. As Thomas Dewar wisely noted, “The only thing that hurts more than paying income tax is not having to pay income tax.” Disclaimer: Each individual’s tax situation is unique, requiring tailored tax planning. While this article provides general advice, it should not be taken as personal advice. We recommend consulting professional advisors, such as those from Bishop Collins, before taking any action. Scan the QR code above for more detail on this article. ADVERTISEMENT

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Rates rise needs to stay: Council Central Coast Council has flagged a growing gap between recurring income and expenditure. In its long-term financial plan, which estimates the growth in income and expenditure for the next 10 years, a deficit kicks in 2026-27. The size of the deficit changes depending on four different scenarios. But the one scenario that Council Administrator Rik Hart adopted at the November 28 meeting retains the one-off rate increase of 13 per cent from 2021-22 that is due to expire in 2031. This would involve another Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) determination. “Whilst the temporary Special Rate Variation (SRV) has enabled Council’s financial recovery, the SRV was approved within the context of financial recovery, rather than being based on an analysis of financial settings required to achieve financial sustainability,” Council says. “It is further noted that upon

its expiry in 2031 Council’s revenue will drop significantly and to a point where minimum service levels will not be able to be sustained.” Council says that it is financially stable due to the successful execution of the financial recovery plan, put in place in October 2020, but that like most councils in NSW, it now needs to review its financial settings to ensure it can remain financially sustainable over the long-term. It says significant productivity improvements have already been implemented and processes are continually being reviewed but current financial settings will need more significant adjustments to secure ongoing financial sustainability. Cost shifting from the State Government costs Council about $45M per year. “Examples of cost shifting include contributions to the NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Rural Fire Services and NSW State Emergency Service, lack of adequate funding for public libraries and the failure to fully reimburse councils for

mandatory pensioner rebates,” Council says. The long-term financial plan details ways of cutting costs. These include investigating the divestment of discretionary and business activities that are not generating a benefit, financial or otherwise to the wider community. The plan also talks about “recycling assets”. “Through the review of Asset Management Plans and Asset Management Strategy, Council is likely to be presented with opportunities to recycle underutilised assets (eg; buildings and land) to obtain better utilisation and improve overall sustainability by reducing the cost of under-utilised assets and achieving commercial returns through asset recycling,” Council says. Council embarked on a $60M sale of assets during the financial recovery. It still has the former Gosford Council building on its list of assets but is hoping to sell that to the State Government as part of the TAFE precinct – a plan announced by the former State Government but with no

deal yet finalised. The Council report outlined four scenarios with number one being business as usual, which would see deficits that would not allow Council to continue to deliver services and works to the community. Business as usual would see the removal of $29.6M in 2031-32 reflecting the expiry of the temporary increase in rating income, implemented in 2021-22. This was the one off 13 per cent rate increase IPART allowed Council to dig itself out of its financial crisis. At the time, Administrator Rik Hart, in his capacity as acting CEO, said it was needed, in part, to finance the repayment of the $150M in emergency loans the Council acquired in December 2020. The Council is preparing to pay off $100m at the end of this year. IPART determined the increase should stay for three years in its first determination but Council went back and successfully argued it needed the increase to stay for 10 years.

Scenario two would see Council increase operating revenue by $1M and increase productivity but this would still give Council a deficit by 202627, though it would be a slightly smaller deficit than in scenario one. The third scenario builds in the savings from scenario two but doesn’t lose the income outlined in scenario one. The deficits would still kick in in 2026-27 but the underlying cash position would not go into the negative if a combination of the additional revenue and increased efficiencies were implemented. Under scenario four, Council would keep the rates increases from scenario three but it would spend an extra $10M on maintenance. “Under this scenario operating deficits are projected earlier than in scenario three due to the increased asset maintenance expenditure,” Council says. “The timing of the projected operating deficits allows limited time for Council to undertake the necessary actions to address the gap and

maintain a positive operating result over the 10 years of the Long Term Financial Plan. “Like scenario three, under this scenario projected deficits can be addressed through a combination of aiming for additional revenue and increased efficiencies through the implementation of the Strategy. “Service levels could also be reviewed, and priorities established in consultation with the community. “However, the magnitude of the projected operating deficits and the associated timing will require the required actions to commence as soon as possible.’’ Council will now use scenario three as the basis for the 202425 Operational Plan and Budget. “Each year Council will continue to implement actions identified in the Strategy to build capacity to increase its investment in asset maintenance as shown in Scenario 4,” Council said. Merilyn Vale

Chamber applauds changes to zoning laws

The Chamber wants Council to accelerate the Place Plan process for Woy Woy. Photo: Google Maps 3D

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has welcomed a State Government move to overhaul zoning laws to facilitate new housing, particularly around major transport nodes. “This is great news and comes in response to the Chamber’s recent calls for an overhaul of the NSW Planning system,” Chamber President Matthew Wales said. “We strongly support the overhaul of the Council zoning laws to allow dual occupancy developments and medium density housing across NSW

rather than continued expansion of greenfield development. “Whilst we welcome the fasttracking of mid-rise residential flat buildings, terraces, townhouses and dual occupancy, this can only come with streamlining the approvals process so that applications are not held up for months at a time. “The Chamber also welcomes the Labor Government’s pledge to fund infrastructure and cut red tape which further delays housing approvals. “This announcement has

important implications for the Woy Woy town centre where the State Government wants apartment buildings around transport hubs and town centres in R2 low-density residential zones. “We are now encouraging Council to accelerate the Place Plan process for Woy Woy and quickly move forward with the review of the planning and development guidelines for the town centre that have been promised for years.” Wales said it was also good news that the Government would amend the State

environmental planning policy to enact the changes and take the decision-making out of the hands of local councils. “The Government is absolutely right; we can’t keep building out,” he said. “The industry needs to focus on infill development with more diverse types of homes. “It is common sense in that town centres such as Woy Woy have the capacity to take more density if it is done well. “These locations already have the infrastructure and the services.”

Terrigal bookkeeper scoops major award Starting a new business and doubling growth in its opening year is a tough achievement for any entrepreneur, but Central Coast bookkeeper Summer To has defeated the odds and has been awarded the national award for Best Emerging Franchisee. After years of experience in the hotel industry and working in corporate finance travelling Australia, COVID restrictions prompted To to establish herself on the Central Coast and join the renowned First Class Accounts network by opening a franchise in Terrigal.

Since her relocation to the Central Coast and opening business doors a year ago, the community has embraced the bookkeeper’s services. She was awarded the accolade by First Class Accounts, the largest franchise in Australia. “The cornerstone of our growth strategy revolves around commitment to delivering exceptional services,” she said. “We firmly believe that by consistently providing outstanding services, word-ofmouth referrals naturally follow and that has

spurred our growth.” To’s team of two staff members is a tribute to the bookkeeper’s success in expanding First Class Accounts Terrigal, and the owner has plans for further growth. In addition to her dedication to her bookkeeping business To is a passionate traveller and has worked remotely from Hong Kong, Malaysia and Taiwan this past year. “The beauty of my business model lies in the flexibility it offers, enabling me to work from virtually anywhere.” While she attributes the company’s success to her

excellent services and value for authenticity, the franchisee encourages aspiring bookkeepers to be courageous in their career. “One enduring piece of advice I have adhered to is to embrace adventure,” she said. “Sometimes, taking that leap into the unknown can yield the most rewarding outcomes. “This award signifies the culmination of relentless effort invested in nurturing my fledgling business. “It imbues me with confidence and determination to continually strive for excellence.”

Summer To

THURSDAY, 30 NOVEMBER 2023

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Have your say on early childhood draft report Member for Robertson Gordon Reid has welcomed a draft report on the future of early childhood education and care (ECEC) in Australia. The draft report, A path to universal early childhood education and care, considers how to build an affordable, accessible, high quality, universal early learning system and includes a range of draft recommendations to achieve this. “This is a huge issue on the Central Coast, and we’re

getting on with strengthening childcare to make it cheaper and more accessible,” Reid said. “I have recently met with local childcare advocates Jess Coulson, Mandy Millan and Samantha Mann to discuss issues facing childcare in the region including availability of spots, staff burnout, long wait times and attracting more people into early childhood education. “I encourage those on the Central Coast to provide feedback on the government’s draft report.”

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with childcare advocates Jess Coulson, Mandy Millan and Samantha Mann

Reid said while there was more to do to establish a universal early childhood

education and care system, the Federal Government was already making progress on

some of the findings in the draft report. The government’s Cheaper Child Care changes have cut the cost of early childhood education and care by 13.2 per cent. Over the past 17 months, the government has announced funding to open 55 new early childhood education services in rural and regional communities, along with support to keep 441 existing services open. Additionally, the government’s Early Childhood Education

Workforce Package is helping to retain the existing highly skilled early learning workforce, with a focus on regional and remote services and First Nations organisations. The Productivity Commission will hold public hearings in early-2024 on the draft report’s findings, with a final report to be provided to the Government by June 30, 2024. The community can provide comment on the draft report by mid-February 2024 by visiting: www.pc.gov.au/inquiries/ current/childhood/makesubmission

Tyler pounds the pavement in honour of her Nan

Tyler Cosser and her friends will be pounding the pavement in honour of her beloved Nan Lola Call

A Central Coast high school student and her friends will be pounding the pavement this month, in honour of a much-loved member of the community. Seventeen-year-old Tyler Cossor is making great strides throughout November in a fitting tribute to her beloved nan Lola Call, who died from a stroke last month aged 78. “Nan was such a huge part of my life,” Tyler said. “She was one of my biggest influencers. I can’t imagine a time when she wasn’t there, she was such a special lady.

“Everyone loved her, and she touched so many people, she was really involved with sewing and golf, and she has passed on those passions to the rest of the family.” Tyler and her dedicated friends are participating in Stride4Stroke, Stroke Foundation’s major annual physical fundraiser which urges people to set an activity goal to increase their ‘moving minutes’ by walking, running, cycling, swimming or setting a goal in stroke recovery. The team has already smashed their $2,000

fundraising target. “Throughout November I’ll make sure I’m moving every day and running most mornings,” Tyler said. “I know Nan would be so proud of us. She was very popular and loved being the centre of attention. “Nan was a nurse, and I want to get into medicine after I finish school. “I did work experience at a hospital while she was here with us, and I know she would have loved to see me pursue a career where I am caring for others

the way she always did.” Stroke Foundation CEO Dr Lisa Murphy commended Lola and her friends for being active throughout November, and for helping raise awareness and funds for stroke. “We know that 80 per cent of strokes are preventable and taking steps to adopt a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk,” Dr Murphy said. “Stride4Stroke is a great starting point to make the changes that can reduce your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes which are all modifiable

risk factors of stroke. “Research tells us that just 30 minutes of exercise five times a week can reduce your stroke risk by 25 per cent.” Stride4Stroke runs throughout November. Every dollar raised will have an enormous impact by helping Stroke Foundation fight stroke, fund research and support survivors and their families at all stages of the recovery journey. Find out more information, or support Tyler at the website

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

30 NOVEMBER 2023

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: Growing Melons Growing your own melons is an exercise in patience but you will end up with the sweetness, most lovely fruit imaginable. The average watermelon or honeydew will take between 80 and 100 warm days, (not just any days, but warm days) to mature and rockmelons around 80 days. My take on this is to go with faster-maturing varieties or better yet, heirloom seeds. As melons do take a bit of space and time, why not try growing something a little unusual like the Australian Heirloom ‘Indian Cream Cobra’ Rockmelon with its lovely mild flavour or the ‘Candy Red’ Watermelon that grows in an elongated form. If you just can’t wait there are a few fast-maturing varieties, and these include the ‘Minnesota Midget’ and ‘Sweet Granite’ Rockmelons along with ‘Moon and Stars’ and the ‘Sugar Baby’ Watermelons which only takes about ten weeks until harvest time. Try these great Aussie suppliers for heirloom varieties: succeedheirloom.com.au or diggers.com.au. Growing and care advice is rather similar across types and

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contact@cheralyndarcey.com cheralyn.darcey cheralyn the most important things to note are that they need a rich soil, lots of water, warmth, sun, and space! Let’s dig in.

Growing Melons Your melons will need at least 1.5m of space around each plant and the position needs to be warm to hot and experience full sun all day. Soil needs to be very well draining, preferable a light sandy loam and they prefer a slightly acidic soil of around pH 6. Dig over the soil a few weeks before planting and improve with well-rotted manures (cow or poultry are preferable), compost, and worm castings. The last frost must of well and truly passed as they are not frost tolerant. When planting, create a mound of about 10 - 15cm high and 90cm wide to plant into as this will help with drainage because although melons love lots of water, they are still prone to fungal disease so this will assist water to drain away. You need lots of leaves on your vines so that your melons are large, healthy, and most importantly sweet. This is why it is often stated that melons are ‘heavy feeders’ it is because they have large

fruit but also because the mass of the living organism, (leaves, stems, roots and fruit), of the plant is large. To feed, use a balanced organic complete fertiliser every three weeks. Constant and deep watering is also needed and to limit the chances of fungal disease, water early in the day and don’t water the leaves. A few weeks before harvesting, cut back on the watering because too much water at this time will dilute the internal sugars of the melon and can lead to fruit that is not as sweet as it could be. Water just enough to prevent the leaves from dying but you can expect a few dying leaves at this time, just not all of them. Your melons are ready to pick when you notice the stem connecting them to the plant is starting to pull away and soften. The melon can sometimes also slightly crack around the stem and the area will have a musky aroma. To harvest, cut the stem leaving a short amount still on the melon. Mature the melons by leaving them in a protected place where they can still sit in the sun for a few weeks. They are ready to eat when you hear a hollow sound

when you tap on them.

Melons on a Trellis or in Pots If you are limited with space in your garden but still want to grow melons, then you can train the vines to grow up and around a trellis. The melons will need to either still rest on the ground and this can be done by ensuring that vines are trained back down to the earth when fruit setting is noticed. You could also support the fruit in expandable mesh bags, slings or if you are very handy, by building little platforms. I have also seen this done for melons and pumpkins that are grown on the ground to avoid any marking on the underside.

Try This - Square Watermelons Although there is a bit of debate about the origin of the square watermelon, many agree that in 1978 Tomoyuki Ono, a graphic designer worked out a way of perfecting what others feel is something Japanese farmers were already toying with. Popular in Japan’s markets, the more lovely of the melons can fetch up to $300AUD but they are not really meant for eating. They are regarded as a decorative item in Japan even though urban legend will have

us believe they are grown that way to fit into tiny Japanese fridges in their overcrowded cities. You can grow a square watermelon too! You need to affix a transparent tempered glass or plastic box around the watermelon while it is still small. There are now many types of plastic watermelon moulds on the market including heartshaped ones to try out. The watermelon will grow to fit the box/mould and will also stop possums from having a nibble.

When I say you can grow a melon in a pot what I mean is, you can grow one melon plant in a very large pot (over 60cm in width) and you will need to provide a trellis and slings or some way of holding the fruits as described above. Ensure that your pot is in full sun all day and that it drains well and is also filled with top quality vegetable-suitable potting mixture that is mixed with a slow-release fertiliser and something to improve water-retention and drainage such as perlite or vermiculite.

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS List your event for free – gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com Dried Flower Workshop at Coachwood Nursery, Somersby - Sunday, 3 Dec, 3-5pm Where: Rain, Hail or Shine! Held in the Dried Flower Emporium in the grounds of Coachwood Nursery, 900 Wisemans Ferry Road, Somersby. Create the most beautiful wall art wreath or a Driftwood & Australian Native table decoration. Your choice on the day. Includes 2 posies. Take home a gorgeous flower arrangement that you create on the day! Everything supplied. Just bring along: - your own drink bottle, box to take home your creation, pen and paper for taking notes as there is a lot to learn, a jacket as it can get cool in the afternoons at Somersby and comfortable shoes. TO BOOK: coachwoodnursery.com/flower-arranging--craft-workshops.html or www.facebook.com/ outingstolearn Monthly Community Breakfast Growers Market - Sunday 10 Dec, 8:30-10:30am Pearl Beach Memorial Community Hall, Diamond Road, Pearl Beach. Featuring a local produce market. On a monthly basis, 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 visit www.lovecentralcoast.com/events/monthly-communitybreakfast-growers-market

THIS WEEK’S GARDENING GUIDE Time to top up mulch in preparation for the coming warmer days to keep roots cool and to preserve water. This week you can plant the following: culinary herbs, beans, beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cape gooseberry, capsicum, carrot, cauliflowers, celery, chicory, cress, cucumber, eggplant, endive, leeks, lettuce, marrow, melons, mustard, okra, parsnip, pumpkins, radishes, rhubarb, rosella, salsify, silverbeet, spring onions, squashes, sweet corn, tomatoes, zucchinis, ageratum, alyssum, amaranths, aster, boronia, Californian poppy, celosia, cockscomb, coleus, cosmos, cyclamen, dahlia (seed), gazania, geranium (seed), gerbera, marigold, nasturtium, petunias, phlox, portulaca, rudbeckia, salvia, snapdragon, sunflower, verbena, vinca, zinnia

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How can I help you? As the State Member for Terrigal, I'm here to serve and assist you and can make representations on your behalf to the NSW Government and Central Coast Council. I can also assist with any state related issues you may have, such as:

Health and Hospitals

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Grant Alert! The 2023 Community Building Partnership grants program is now open! Applications are now open for the 2023 Community Building Partnership grants program. Apply for a grant and kickstart your community infrastructure project today! Scan here for more information

Need to contact me? 02 4365 1906

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Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250, funded using parliamentary entitlements

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Free gym pass for teens over Summer With school nearly out for the Summer and parents looking for activities to keep their teenagers busy, Planet Fitness at West Gosford is opening its doors for free with the launch of its Teen Fit Pass program. Dozens of teenagers converged on the West Gosford gym recently when the program, which offers free gym membership for teenagers aged between 15-19, was launched on November 22. Teen Fit Pass provides full access to high-tech gym equipment, skilled fitness professionals, training programs and teen-specific workout plans. It’s an Australian-first initiative aimed at helping households to make healthy

choices despite the rising cost of living. Recent data shows the cost of children’s sport is rising across the country. In 2022-23, the average Australian family spent about $1,300 a year on sport and fitness activities for their children, an increase of more than $200 compared to the previous year. Planet Fitness Australia Managing Director Danielle Monroy said the positive correlation that exercise could have on mental wellbeing was well recognised. “We believe working out should be accessible, easy, non-intimidating and fun for everyone,” Monroy said. “Our program is designed to promote healthy habits amongst teens, boosting

Dozens of teens converged on Planet Fitness at West Gosford to sign up for the free Teen Fit Pass

physical and mental wellbeing. “We know just how tough Australian families are doing right now, that’s why we are committed to providing fun and affordable fitness for all. “This program is all about creating an accessible and encouraging atmosphere for

young people to get fit with their friends these holidays.” Fitness Training Support Manager for Planet Fitness, Ashleigh Batcheler, said it was important for young people to establish a regular exercise routine and build healthy habits.

“Teenagers are spending more time in front of screens and on their phones than ever before and it’s having a negative impact on their mental health, with one in five Australian teenagers reporting high levels of psychological distress,” she said.

“Working out is an effective mood booster, relieving tension and increasing energy levels through the release of endorphins. “While many teenagers get exposure to physical activity at school during the term, they’re often left in the dark come summer holidays. “The Teen Fit Pass program offers teenagers a safe and convenient place to engage in physical activity at no extra cost to their family.” Registrations for the Teen Fit Pass program is now open to all Australian teens aged 15 to 19. The program will run from November 2023 to February 2024. To sign up for the program, visit planetfitnessteenfitpass. com.au

Helping students stay hydrated Kincumber High P&C President Lucy Wenzke said the new station would help cater for a growing school. “The P&C had installed a single filtered water bottle station several years ago and this had proved very popular,” she said. “But for a school of more than 1,000 students, it became impractical as there was often a long line of students trying to refill their water bottles after school sport or a game of lunchtime soccer. “The problem was exacerbated with the arrival of COVID-19, as the use of normal

Deputy Principal Brent Waters, Principal Brent Walker, Janet Broz, Lucy Wenzke, Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Renier van de Klashart at the new water station

bubblers also became less popular. “Therefore, for this project, the P&C not only installed a

triple water bottle refill station, but also replaced a bank of outdated bubblers with the original single refill station in a

different location within the school. “Students will now have access to a total of four refill

stations – three near the oval and one near classrooms at the higher end of the school. “This will provide them with quick and easy access to chilled, filtered water. “This is a benefit to their health and wellbeing, especially as it reduces the need for using outdated bubblers that may be less sanitary. “Having multiple refill stations will also mean that students will be able to access a drink and move back to class more quickly, which is great news for teachers.” Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the new station would help students

stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months. “I know that this water bottle refilling station will be put to good use by the students and school community,” he said. “It will also be convenient for the several local sporting clubs that use Kincumber High’s oval during the week for training.” The Stronger Communities Program provides not-forprofit organisations with grant funding of between $2,500 and $25,000. To learn more, contact Reid’s office on 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au

Young girls’ potential showcased in outreach program A school bathroom designed to combat vaping and vandalism and a website providing teenagers with information on quitting vaping were just two solutions Gorokan High School students developed after identifying issues that needed solving. The students were participating in the 2023 HunterWiSE Schools Outreach Program which concluded recently with a presentation night, bringing together 190 students from high schools across the region to showcase the potential and ingenuity of young girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). A 10-week program, HunterWiSE Outreach targets intervention for female students in Year 8 that aims to improve the perception of

STEM among young girls to encourage them to pursue STEM education in high school. During the program, students are supported by mentors and industry partners to first identify an issue of concern in their community, and then apply science, technology, engineering and mathematics to develop a solution. Gorokan High School was one of 11 high schools in the 2023 program and has participated in the HunterWiSE Schools Outreach Program since 2019. This year, students developed solutions for a range of issues, including a new school bathroom design to combat vaping and vandalism; a website that provides teenagers with information and support to quit vaping; and mental health apps aimed at teenagers, promoting mindfulness and providing

Gorokan High School students at the HunterWISE presentation night

positive affirmations. “By encouraging students to address the issues that are important to them, HunterWiSE emphasises the practical application of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to bring about positive change in communities,” HunterWiSE cofounder Professor Sarah

Johnson said. “We aim to promote the idea that STEM education is both relevant, and a gateway to careers where they can really make a difference.” Earlier in the year, the Gorokan students also had the opportunity to visit the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Campus,

providing students with the chance to gain a better understanding of some diverse career opportunities in STEM – particularly in the disciplines of chemistry, coastal and marine science, and exercise and sports science. The HunterWiSE Schools Outreach Program is made possible through financial and

in-kind support received from industry partners and the University of Newcastle. This commitment to providing opportunities for girls in STEM underscores industry and community support for investing in STEM education and empowering girls, ensuring that the future of STEM is more inclusive and diverse. HunterWiSE is an initiative founded by a team of female academics from the University of Newcastle. The initiative forges partnerships between women in STEM, industry partners, and Hunter high schools with the aim of developing positive collaborations, which encourage more young women to pursue careers in STEM. Expressions of Interest for the 2024 HunterWiSE Schools Outreach Program will be announced in December.

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New health platform for young people Your Road Starts Here is a new digital platform packed with resources, videos and advice to help young people leaving high school. It is a collaboration between the Hunter New England and Central Coast Public Health Network (PHN), Central Coast Local Health District,headspace and creative agency Lead by Story. Through a co-design process with mental health clinicians and local young people, the comprehensive platform has been developed to help young people manage life and expectations and build resilience. It is arranged into six key categories with topics including goals, money, friendships, career, community and support networks.

The platform also offers a journal filled with pages where young people can write their thoughts, and tools to assist with planning. PHN CEO Richard Nankervis says school leavers have been identified as a vulnerable cohort. “Research shows that young people finishing school often struggle with their mental health and suicide risk is heightened,” he said. “The pressure of the perceived level of expectation from friends and family can be overwhelming, particularly when the young person believes the expectations exceed what they are able to achieve. “Alongside the Central Coast headspace, the PHN identified a gap in the market for early intervention services for young

The new platform features a song by Fletcher Pilon

people and collaboratively the idea for the platform was born. “We are very proud of what has been achieved and look forward to expanding the program.” Founder and Director of creative agency Lead By Story,

Will Small, led the co-design process. “During the co-design process we quickly realised that there’s no ‘one size fits all’ path for young people after school, and it’s never too late to change direction,” he said.

“We used the imagery of the road to represent a sense of journey/adventure, which resonated with a desire many young people expressed to travel, to explore and to try new things after school. “Year 13, as it’s sometimes called, can be both overwhelming and exciting, and we wanted to communicate that it’s OK to feel all the big feelings. “Part of what is difficult about finishing school is the pressure young people can feel to have things ‘figured out’ straight away. “Affirming that it’s natural for transitions to take place over longer periods of time, and that it’s OK to make changes along the way and try different things seemed like one of the most helpful things we can do for young people.

“The song The Road We’re Making, performed by Fletcher Pilon addresses these things in an authentic way. “I hope the platform can become a tool that is used by schools and youth workers for many years to come as a ‘starting point’ to spark important conversations that go well beyond a website.” Further stages in the project will see Youth Access clinicians reaching out to local high schools to conduct group sessions, mental health presentations and counselling with young people. This will enable the clinicians to provide education and early intervention to young people and also advise on support available in the future. View the project at www. yourroad.au

New prostate cancer treatment option The Central Coast has come in at number five on a list of 20 regional and suburban “hot spots” across Australia where prostate cancer is diagnosed late, and men are detected with advanced disease at rates significantly higher than the national average. But a new government medicine subsidy will allow thousands of Australian men battling an advanced form of prostate cancer to launch a three-pronged attack against their disease. Medical experts are welcoming Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) access to the first and only medicine specifically registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for use in triple therapy to fight cancer in a number of different and complementary ways as soon as it has escaped the prostate. From December 1, men with

Men with prostate cancer often have a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test to monitor the progression of the cancer

metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (cancer that has spread beyond the prostate to organs such as the lymph nodes, bone, lung and liver) will receive subsidised access to NUBEQA (darolutamide) for the first time. It will form part of a threepronged treatment, used alongside chemotherapy and hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy or ADT).

1800 891 691 or 4324 7699 Suites 5 & 6, Fountain Plaza 148-158 Central Coast Hwy, Erina brazelmoorelawyers.com.au

Genesis Care Medical Oncologist Dr Laurence Krieger said NUBEQA worked to starve cancer cells of the hormones they needed to grow and divide, while androgen deprivation therapy blocks production of the cancer-stimulating hormones and chemotherapy worked to destroy cancer cells. “Sadly, prostate cancer remains the second greatest cancer killer of Australian

Prostate cancer can spread to other parts of the body

men,” he said. “New treatment options are desperately needed.” Through the PBS, eligible men will pay just $7.30 (on concession) or $30 (general patients) each month for NUBEQA. Without the PBS subsidy, the tablets could cost more than $42,000 each year in addition to the cost of other anti-cancer medicines.

The major funding announcement came just as Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) released its snapshot of advanced prostate cancer diagnosis across Australia. “Every year nearly 4,000 Australian men will be diagnosed with incurable Stage 3 or 4 prostate cancers,” PCFA CEO Anne Savage said. “The listing of medicines

such as NUBEQA for more men is an important development for thousands of Australian fathers and sons. “However, we need to continue raising awareness so that all Australian men get a fair chance of detecting prostate cancer early, so that we can beat it.” Bayer Australia and New Zealand Group CEO and Country Division Head for Pharmaceuticals, Ashraf AlOuf, said that timely access to additional treatment options could be a key moment for someone living with prostate cancer – potentially impacting their ability to live well alongside family and friends. “Bayer is proud to deliver NUBEQA as an additional treatment option for men with this form of advanced prostate cancer, as well as stand behind PCFA in its efforts to raise awareness of the disease and address barriers to early diagnosis,” he said.

FREE SEMINAR Challenging Wills Seminar

Experienced down-to-earth help and advice throughout the Central Coast This free public seminar is being given by Brazel Moore Lawyers to help people understand what to expect, so they know where they stand in: • Challenging a Will; or • Defending a Will from Challenge The theme is to educate people about the options and choices available to them if they have been

left out of a Will - or if you want to leave someone out of your Will - alerting you to the pitfalls and procedures in dealing with Challenging Wills and how you should best deal with challenges. Mr Geoff Brazel, Solicitor will present the seminar on Challenging Wills to help you through the maze of legal regulation

The seminar will be presenting in a friendly relaxed atmosphere and there will be plenty of time for your questions. You’ll be helped a lot in understanding the system and will then be able to confidently consider what steps you need to take to properly consider challenges to Wills.

WHEN: 5 December 2023 TIME: 6.45pm to 8.00pm WHERE: Gosford RSL Club Call 4324 7699 to reserve your spot now!

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Littlehales named Sportsperson of the Year Para-Canoe World Champion and gold medallist Dylan Littlehales has been named Central Coast Sportsperson of the Year at the Industree Group Stadium Central Coast Sports Awards, hosted by Sport Central Coast, at Mingara Recreation Club on November 23. Littlehales, who was unable to attend the evening due to training commitments on the Gold Coast ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and accepted his award via video, capped off an amazing year which saw him claim gold and silver medals at the world championships in Duisburg, Germany, in August and claim the titles of world, Australian and NSW champion in the KL3 200 during the nomination period. “I’d just like to say what a true honour this is to win Central Coast Sportsperson of the Year,” he said. “This is the first time I’ve won it and to think … it took me becoming a world champion to

win – it just shows the incredible calibre of athletes that we have coming through on the Central Coast. “As this award becomes tougher and tougher to win, it only makes it more worthwhile for everyone to win in the future.” Littlehales, who was also named Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability, beat a star-studded field including Nicola Olyslagers (athletics), Pat Farmer (ultra marathon), Nicho Hynes (rugby league), Trevor Kan (martial arts) and Matt Graham (moguls) to claim the major award on an evening which celebrated the outstanding achievements of local athletes, teams, associations and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide sport and active recreation opportunities across the Central Coast. More than 150 people were in attendance to see some of the Coast’s brightest stars receive their awards. The Central Coast Mariners was named Team of the Year for

Photo: Zsuzsanna Vekassy Dylan Littlehales was named Sportsperson of the Year

claiming their first A-League premiership since 2013 with a memorable 6-1 defeat of Melbourne Victory. Australian representative, gold medallist and Scratch Race World Champion Nicole Duncan won Junior Sportsperson of the Year. Killarney Vale Bombers and AFLHCC representative player Eliza Hand was named Community Sportsperson of

the Year. Surf Life Saving Central Coast’s Paul Lemmon was named Masters Athlete of the Year, having claimed 14 gold medals at the Australian championships. Frank Overton of Mingara Athletics and Felix Tebbutt of Peninsula Touch were named Coach of the Year and Young Coach/Official of the Year. International and state touch

football referee Kim Skelly of Peninsula Touch was named Official of the Year and Umina Surf Life Saving Club won Club or Association of the Year. Bay to Bay hosted by the Terrigal Trotters was named Event or Initiative of the Year and Wyong District Hockey’s Tiff Graham was named Volunteer of the Year. Sport Central Coast Deputy Chairman Ian Robilliard

acknowledged the diverse range of nominees on display across the 12 categories for the sports awards and thanked the many volunteers and sponsors who help to make the awards a celebrated night on the Central Coast sporting calendar. “We can’t function without the wonderful support we receive from our Board, sponsors and sport and active recreation community across the Central Coast,” he said. “We saw a record number of nominations this year and we thank our judging panel who had the unenviable task of sorting through many phenomenal nominations. “My final thanks go out to the sport and active recreation community of the Central Coast. “It if wasn’t for you playing, coaching, officiating, volunteering, or supporting, our community would not have the opportunities we do to participate in local activities and programs.”

Mariners men win F3 derby as women lose to Victory FOOTBALL The Central Coast Mariners men secured their first victory in the Isuzu UTE A-League this season, defeating rivals Newcastle Jets 3-1 in a thrilling derby at Industree Group Stadium on Saturday evening, November 25. Storm Roux’s late first-half goal and Will Wilson’s clinical finish in the second period gave the Mariners a commanding lead. Although Archie Goodwin pulled one back for the Jets on 76 minutes, Jing Reec sealed the victory in stoppage time. The Mariners dominated from

The Mariners men celebrate after their F3 Derby win

the start, with Angel Torres nearly scoring within the first minute.

The Jets struggled to register shots in the first half, and Josh Nisbet’s effort clipped the

crossbar on 41 minutes. The breakthrough came in added time of the first half

when Jacob Farrell’s cross was volleyed home by Roux. The Mariners continued their dominance in the second half, with Wilson scoring on 57 minutes. Despite a late goal from Goodwin, the Mariners defended well and secured the victory with Reec’s late goal. Meanwhile, the Mariners women narrowly lost their game against Melbourne Victory in Melbourne 2-1 on Sunday afternoon, November 26. The Victory scored first and looked likely to dominate the match. Even so, coach Emily

Central Coast loses out in Country Bash Central Coast lost the final against Riverina in the Southern Pool of the Plan B Country Bash on November 23. In Round 1, Central Coast competed against Western, winning the toss and electing to bowl. Robert Lavery took the first wicket of an opening batter followed by three more wickets by Scott Burkinshaw, who finished the innings 4/11 off four. Simon Keen took 2/21 off four, taking the side all out for 89 after 19.1 overs. Central Coast sent out Simon

Keen and Jake Hardy to open their batting innings and they didn’t disappointment with Jake Hardy putting 33* off 31 (4 x 4s and 1 x 6) on the board. But, it was Simon Keen’s 50* off 35 (4 x 4s and 3 x 6s) that brought the side home with a massive six to take the win. Simon Keen was 50 not out off 35 Central Coast reached 91 off just 10.5 overs, sending them to the final round. Riverina and Central Coast met in the final and Central Coast won the toss electing to bowl. Scott Burkinshaw 2/24 off four, Simon Keen 3/19 off four

and Jack Harris 3/16 off three took a share of the wickets and only allowed three of Riverina’s batters to get into double digits. After the innings, Riverina finished 8/124 and Central Coast took to the crease. The opening batters were taken out, Simon Keen for five and Jake Hardy for a duck. Brett Russell went out to steady the run rate hitting a quick 15 off 13 with 3 x 4s. Jack Harris went on to hit 19* off 25 but the final wicket was Jake Holmes on 14 off 14. After 15.5 overs, Central Coast were all out for 72.

The Central Coast team

Husband’s young team played their hearts out by fighting back and scoring the equaliser in the 71st minute with an incredible goal by Faye Bryson after some fabulous work down the left hand side from Wurigumula who found Bryson, who then slotted the ball into the bottom corner. With the score one goal each it looked likely a draw would result against the top form Victory side. However, it was not to be when the Victory scored in extra time to take the game to a 2-1 home side victory for Victory.

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Padding-up for disability awareness Last year’s Community All Stars team

Central Coast community leaders and media personalities will don their whites and head out to the green on December 6 for a game of blind cricket to celebrate International Day of People with Disability and raise awareness of disability sports. The Coast’s Community All Stars team will play Social Futures (the not-for-profit and NDIS partner in the community) at Gosford’s Adcock Park, with community invited to watch.

Player registration will start at 11am with a community barbecue at noon and play to start at 1pm. Former NSW Blind Cricket Captain Scott Jones, who is employed by Social Futures, last year led his side to victory. “From memory, there was only a couple of runs in it last year – 65 runs to 61 – so I know the All Stars will be hungry for a win this year,” Jones said. The match is organised to showcase blind cricket and promote disability sports.

Other disability sports on display will include AFL, soccer, cycling, golf, pickle ball and judo. Seeing Eye Dog puppies will also be there to welcome the community. “Another aim of the day is to build understanding of disability, inclusion and the benefits for people with a disability when they enjoy and play sport and connect with others,” Jones said. “Blind cricket is just like normal cricket but a plastic ball

is filled with ball bearings so players can hear it coming and it’s bowled underarm. “Also, players without vision impairment wear experiential glasses that attempt to replicate the different vision impairments. “There will be instructors and players there on the day to explain how the sports are modified to allow people with disability to play, improve their fitness, and of course to make new friends – because that’s what we love to do in Australia.

“There will also be a free community barbecue, so we are inviting people to come on down and be part of the day.” In his role with Social Futures, Jones delivers blind cricket sessions to Central Coast schools. “These sessions are great fun because the students try a new sport, and with the experiential glasses they find it challenging and we talk about the important role sport can have for people with disability,” he said. “Making sure people with

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Bateau Bay Women’s Division 4 team off to State Championships in May

Bateau Bay Women’s Division 4 team will be the sole representatives from the Central Coast competing in the Women’s Divisional Pennants finals in May next year. On November 12, four Central Coast Women’s District bowls pennant teams in divisions 1,2,3 and 4 played against four teams from the Women’s Lakes

District at Wyong Bowling Club for the opportunity to advance to the NSW Women’s State Pennant Championships. The only team from the Central Coast Women’s District Bowls to win on the day was the Division 4 Bateau Bay team. Playing against the team from Belmont, the Bateau Bay women proved too strong, winning comfortably 49-22.

Following unification of the Bateau Bay men’s and women’s clubs earlier this year, a feature of the women’s pennants for Bateau Bay was the inclusion of men as managers and coaches. Such is the co-operation within the club, the support from the men and vice versa is proving to be a contributing factor to the club’s pennant success.

disability are included in the community is everyone’s job. “A big thank you to the community members coming along to play in the second annual Central Coast community blind cricket match.” To talk to a NDIS local area co-ordinator email lac@ socialfutures.org.au or call the hotline on 1800 522 679 (8.30am-4.30pm Monday to Friday).