Coast Community News #424

1 FEBRUARY 2024

ISSUE 424

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS • COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

+ DIGITAL

News

Free parking for Gosford Hospital staff ends Thursday See page 3

Coasties recognised in Australia Day Honours List

Out&About

Fundraising soiree at Japanese Gardens See page 15

Business

See pages 10-11

Sara Lee saved by Aussie investors Over a decade after saving the Darrell Lea chocolate brand from the brink of collapse, a Gold Coast family has stepped in to rescue another beloved dessert brand, Sara Lee, from its financial woes.

The announcement of a buy-out by a private company owned by Klark and Brooke Quinn was made on January 29 by the administrators of Sara Lee, signalling a new chapter for the company’s operations in Australia and New Zealand.

This strategic acquisition is poised to preserve 200 jobs that were at risk following the company’s financial downturn late last year.

Outside the Sara Lee factory at Lisarow

While the financial terms of the deal remain under wraps, the move has been met with optimism.

Appointed by FTI Consulting on October 17, Vaughan Strawbridge, Joseph Hansell, and Kathryn Evans took on the role of voluntary

administrators for Sara Lee amidst its struggle with debts surpassing $50M. Known for its array of frozen desserts including cakes, pies, crumbles and ice creams available in supermarkets, Sara Lee has been a household name since its inception in 1971, with its

main production hub in Lisarow.

The company’s portfolio also extends to food service and catering operations.

Strawbridge said Sara Lee was an iconic brand and category leader, with the brand holding an esteemed position in the market.

He said there was a collective effort to sustain the business during challenging times and extended his gratitude towards the dedicated workforce and management team, whose commitment to excellence ensured the continued production of high-quality products throughout the administration period.

Water sniffer dogs help find leaks See page 21

Sport

Top basketballers head for Coast See page 31

Puzzles page 18

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More than just desserts In the sweet landscape of the Central Coast, desserts are not just a course in a meal, they’re a movement!

With the rollercoaster saga of Duff’s Ice Cream and the dramatic rescue of Sara Lee, our local confectionery scene could rival any soap opera.

The Central Coast is on the brink of a new transformative era in food manufacturing, underscored by a series of pivotal developments that herald a brighter future for the local economy.

The recent challenges faced

by Duff’s Ice Cream, juxtaposed with the rescue of Sara Lee by Australian investors, highlight the sector’s vulnerabilities and resilience.

EDITORIAL Moreover, the nearing completion of the Ourimbah Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub thanks to the significant $17M federal investment underscores the critical need for a unified and consistent commitment to nurturing the local food industry.

These developments are not merely isolated events but are emblematic of the broader potential for the Central Coast to become a nexus for food innovation and manufacturing.

The envisioned Ourimbah Hub, poised to create over 200 direct and 4,000 indirect jobs, is a testament to the transformative impact such

investment can have on the region.

It is a clarion call for stakeholders, from local councils, state and federal agencies and private investors, to recognise the strategic importance of the food manufacturing sector as a cornerstone of the Central Coast’s economic revitalisation.

To harness this potential fully, a collaborative approach is essential.

The experiences of local businesses like Duff’s Ice Cream illuminate the challenges that can arise from regulatory hurdles and administrative oversights.

As such, local governance frameworks must be aligned

A Point Clare retiree, who Photo: Salty Dingo 2023 volunteers as a presenter at Central Coast community radio station, Coast FM, is one of 100 amateur writers from across the state, who have been published in the 2023 edition of Seniors Stories (Volume 9).

Chris Maitland, who presents several programs on CoastFM963, mostly playing early rock ‘n’ roll from the late 50s and early 60s, has written of his career spent mostly in the and howofhis Fillmedia, in each letter thewheel alphabet once only. has gone full circle, now playing the same songs as oldies that A M he played in his first announcing ChrisE and Marion Maitland at the Parliament House reception N U Sin 1962.

D G E job in Wollongong M I D E D “As a teenager I wanted to be baseball and softball for the Seniors Card runs a P Rannouncer,” I LMaitland Seven B I Network S a radio at three competition each year for said.E T E NOlympics A – Atlanta, Sydney and stories of 500 words or less on Athens.

“I D got into radioCsales instead I S A RG I G seniors, encouraging them to where I workedAmost of my When and his wife Marion lead an active and healthy N he A life.”

E T N A GmovedEto the Central Coast 18 lifestyle.

Maitland said his most months ago to be closer to their A H O G This year’s theme was Ageing notable times in the media children and grandchildren, he O L E T T L E and Life Lessons. included 14 years at 2UE in was able resurrect his dream of X being S a radio T announcer.

About 280 entries are Sydney and E commentating

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with the broader vision for industry growth, ensuring that businesses are supported rather than hindered by bureaucratic processes.

In reality, the Central Coast stands at a crossroads, with the opportunity to redefine its economic landscape through strategic investment in food manufacturing.

The path forward requires a cohesive strategy that embraces innovation, supports local businesses and fosters an environment conducive to growth and development.

So, let’s rally for our desserts – because a future filled with sweet innovations is a future worth savouring!

Also see online at coastcommunitynews.com.au/

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J Q V A M U N U S E D G L E E M O I D E A D P R I M L Y I B I S E T E N A D I S C H A RG I NG C A R N A Z E S T N A GG E D B A T H P O G F OW L K E T T L E X E X S T

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received annually and members of the Fellowship of Australian Writers select the best 100 to be published.

The printed book is then distributed to all libraries throughout the state and all the stories can also be accessed on the Seniors Card website.

Maitland also had stories included in three previous volumes.

“Although I have had stories in previous volumes, I was very thrilled and excited to be selected,” he said.

A reception was held at Parliament House for this year’s top 100 where Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison complimented the successful writers on their efforts to encourage active lifestyles for seniors.

Three other Central Coast seniors had their stories published in this year’s book, Mavis Gunter, Brendan Horgan and Patricia Webb.

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Opal card system goes down at Woy Woy Travellers and commuters to and from Woy Woy station risk being penalised after the station’s opal card readers went down late on Tuesday night, January 30, due to a power outage.

Station staff were advising travellers on Wednesday to ring the Opal administration number 13 67 25 to register that they used Woy Woy station, or risk being overcharged for not tapping on or off the system while travelling.

Station staff have said that travellers on the Gold Opal Card do not need to register their travels as they are on a capped fee structure.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson confirmed that at around 10pm on Tuesday night an electrical issue caused the opal card readers to shut down at Woy Woy station.

“Teams have attended the station and are working to fix it as soon as possible,” the spokesperson said on Wednesday afternoon.

“Passengers are advised to continue to tap on and off at their end destination and to visit transportnsw.info/fareadjustments to request a fare adjustment.

“Transit Officers checking for valid tickets are aware of the issue at Woy Woy, so passengers who have been unable to tap on should let them know.”

As at 4pm on Wednesday, January 31, it was still unclear when the opal card readers would return online.

The cause of the electrical fault is being investigated.

IN MEMORIAM

COSTIN,

Joyce Helen 21-07-1921—22-1-2024 Joyce passed away peacefully at Wallarah Point At 102 she continued to bring joy to the lives of all she touched.

Living independently until she was 100, Joyce then moved to Wallarah Point Community Aged Care where they cared for her with grace and humour as she continued to make all those around her aware of her fun and enjoyment of life. Joyce will be remembered with much love by her son Wayne, daughter Gay, 5 grand children and 10 great grand children who loved her dearly.

Free parking for Gosford Hospital staff ends Thursday Free parking for Gosford Hospital staff will end on February 1.

A NSW Government spokesperson has confirmed free parking for staff, first announced in April 2020 in response to the COVID pandemic as a “temporary” measure, will end.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, who first raised concerns last week after hearing rumours, has slammed the Government for the move calling it a “massive betrayal to staff”.

“Just as this government was caught lying about providing free parking at Gosford Hospital for everybody, we have now seen that the Minns Labor government intends to rip away free parking for staff come February 1,” Crouch said.

“This is a massive blow and an enormous betrayal adding yet another cost-of-living pressure to Central Coast locals and shows the great hypocrisy of this government.

“It was only in 2021 that the now Premier Chris Minns criticised parking fees for staff at hospitals and was quoted saying “slugging them with this fee is a real slap in the face”.

A NSW Government

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has slammed the Government for reintroducing paid parking for staff

spokesperson said free staff parking was a temporary measure.

“We have delivered on our commitment to extend free parking to staff and patients in regional and rural hospitals,” the spokesperson said.

“We did this because we wanted to make it easier for patients to access healthcare and treatment and for frontline staff to get to work.”

Free staff parking was still available at other regional hospitals including Wyong – where paid parking for patients

is under review – Maitland and Belmont.

John Hunter, Wollongong and Gosford hospitals are principal referral hospitals located in major centres and not part of the free parking initiative.

NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association Assistant General Secretary Michael Whaites has called on the Government to reconsider the decision.

“The below inflation 4 per cent pay rise that public sector nurses and midwives received this year will be clawed back by this decision to rescind free

parking,” he said.

“Like all essential health workers, our members will understandably be upset about this, given the cost-of-living pressures they’re grappling with and the ongoing struggle to secure affordable housing near their workplaces.

“The majority of nurses and midwives are shift workers, so public transport is not always feasible for them.

“They work regular unsociable hours over their rosters to provide a high standard of care to patients,

and for a variety of reasons, including personal safety, they commute to work by car.

“These car parking changes have potential to further impact recruitment and retention of staff and we call on the government to reconsider this decision.”

The government spokesperson said most people would reasonably understand that there was a big difference between major hospitals which have access to public transport and regional and rural areas.

“Feedback from the community has raised concerns free parking for all staff at major hospitals is crowding out patients and carers from accessing parking,” the spokesperson said.

“Free parking for health staff was introduced at a time when we were trying to reduce health workers’ exposure to the virus through avoiding public transport.

“It was also a time when visiting loved ones in hospital was substantially limited as well as a period when elective surgery was paused.”

Denice Barnes

Concern over Long Jetty amenities upgrade Member for The Entrance David Mehan has called on Central Coast Council to review its plans for new public amenities buildings within the Long Jetty Foreshore Reserve.

Council has recently notified residents that two of the existing amenities buildings have reached their end of life and are due for replacement.

This work is due to commence in February.

Mehan said residents were pleased to hear Council was providing new amenities buildings to service the area and tourists who came from far and wide.

But they are concerned at the huge reduction in size of the proposed facilities, including the removal all changerooms and showers, he said.

Mehan wrote to Council voicing residents’ concerns and highlighting that the new buildings will provide half of the existing amenities at the current sites.

Residents have also been advised that Council will not keep the heritage signage at the building at the end of Archbold Rd, which displays and explains the history of the area.

“This upgrade and

revitalisation of the amenities blocks is welcome news,” Mehan said.

“Council does need to review its current plans, however, must provide a like-for-like replacement given the patronage Long Jetty now sees.

“The heritage signage of Long Jetty needs to be reinstated upon construction of the new building at Archbold Rd. “Council needs to do all it can to ensure we don’t lose the identity of our area currently imprinted on the building that makes for informative reading for tourists.”

Mehan said residents have started a petition they intend to present to Council urging a review of the current plans and asking that Council ensure that heritage signage is retained.

“The Community has really stepped up to ensure that Council hears its views on not only the significance of the heritage signage on the building at Archbold Road, but the fact that the amenities will be significantly reduced,” he said.

Mehan said Council had yet to respond to his representations and that more than 100 signatures had already been

Member for The Entrance David Mehan discusses the amenities upgrade with concerned residents

collected on the petition.

A Council spokesperson reassured residents that the four amenity buildings along the 3.5km pathway in Long Jetty would be retained.

“However two of the buildings are being renewed as they are at the end of life and in poor condition, and do not meet current codes and standards as well as subject to flooding,” the spokesperson said.

“The design of these two buildings will be more contemporary, incorporating technology, and allow for easier and safer access for all users and also enable better access for cleaning crews thus enabling them to work more

efficiently and quickly.

“The existing outdoor shower will not be removed; it will be reactivated and retained as part of the works and renewed buildings.

“There will be three new, modern cubicles in each of the two upgraded buildings.

“A review of usage was undertaken indicating that three cubicles in each renewed amenity block would meet visitor needs, remembering that there will still be a total of four public toilet buildings along the 3.5km stretch of walkway.”

The spokesperson said the renewed amenity blocks will also incorporate digital

technology in their daily locking and un-locking system.

“Currently security guards physically lock and unlock them every day at sunset and sunrise,” they said.

“By having an electronic locking and unlocking ability, it will save costs and generate consistency, and also mean they can be reprogrammed digitally to cater for community or private events which might be on in the area, requiring the toilets to be open for longer, or be opened earlier.

“Council is currently developing a Public Toilet Strategy for the entire Central Coast, which will be exhibited for public consultation in coming months.

“The aim is that the final strategy will guide the management and development of the public toilet network over the next 10 years.

“In relation to the historical signage, Council is not planning on removing the signage permanently, but rather (meeting) with representatives of the concerned members of the community to seek input on where is best to relocate the historical information signage within the vicinity after the new amenities buildings are completed.”

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Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Australia Day award winners

I was delighted to attend the 2024 Australia Day Awards ceremony last week, where an outstanding group of Central Coast citizens were awarded for their incredible contributions to the community.

These annual awards are a way for Council and the wider community to celebrate and recognise individuals and organisations who have positively impacted the community.

Our 2024 ‘Citizen of the Year’ was 18-yearold Matthew Blakemore, who was awarded for his advocacy and awareness-raising about the needs of young people with a disability. Matthew’s impact reaches far beyond our local government area, with Matthew appointed to the Research Board of the University of Technology Sydney to help ensure that research on young people is relevant, contemporary, accessible and inclusive. As a young person living with autism and an intellectual disability, Matthew has also been working with Next Level Inclusion to develop ‘Easy Read’ documents for organisations including St John Ambulance Service and the Government.

I would like to sincerely congratulate Matthew and thank all of this year’s winners for their outstanding contributions to the Central Coast community. Together, you are enriching the lives of the people who call this beautiful place home.

Award winners: Matthew Blakemore (winner – Citizen of the Year), 3 Villages Community Group and Elderslee Foundation (joint winners – Community Group), Doggie Dates NSW (highly commended – Community Group), Roberta Dixon-Valk (winner – Community Life), Regina Doyle (winner – Volunteer), Anannya Bandaru (winner – Young Person), Robert Mulvey (winner – Senior Citizen).

Water and Sewer unserviced properties

New community hall in Norah Head

Have your say before 14 February at yourvoiceourcoast.com

For more information, search ‘Norah Head community hall’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Do you occupy, own, or operate a business from an ‘unserviced property’ on the Central Coast? Have your say on the potential inclusion connection of ‘unserviced properties’ into our future plans. This follows earlier consultation which was open to customers who are connected to Council’s water and/or sewerage services on the Coast.

A new $1.7 million Community Hall has been built at Norah Head with facilities including a multi-functional hall, kitchen, storage, accessible family friendly amenities, a children’s playspace and picnic area. Community feedback from consultation activities guided the designs and helped us transform what was previously in place and create a fabulous modern facility for locals.

We need you to help shape the future of our region

Report outlines investment in our road network

See what’s open and have your say at yourvoiceourcoast.com

To read the recent Council report search ‘investing in our road network’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Last year over 175,000 people visited our 24/7 consultation hub online at Your Voice Our Coast to help guide projects, strategies and plans in our community. There’s a range of projects currently open for community consultation but closing soon, including Open Coast Coastal Management Program, Central Coast Airport Masterplan, Phegans Bay Waterfront Masterplan, Outdoor Trading, Local Approvals and more.

We invest a large percentage of our operating budget on our roads, and secure as much funding as possible from the Australian and NSW Governments. Over the last 2 years, we’ve secured approximately $235M of grant funding.

This has enabled the completion of many projects across the region already and many more this year and beyond.

What’s on

Did you know?

Mark your calendar for Wyong’s Love Lanes Festival!

We have developed multiple new online content hubs on LoveCentralCoast.com that showcase and promote a diverse range of Central Coast local tourism products, services and experiences to potential visitors. This project was co-funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

A free event with music, roving entertainment, food and market stalls, a kid’s zone, a circus precinct and more!

Saturday 10 February 2024 4-9pm Wyong Town Centre

To read more on this project, search ‘tourism content’ at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au and view the new content at LoveCentralCoast.com

View event program at lovecentralcoast.com/love-lanesfestival

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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Don’t miss out on Council news. Sign up for our weekly enews at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/enews

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NBN upgrades Concern over damage to cultural sites Department of Planning representatives and machinery available on The and Environment’s is fitted with GPS tracking to Biodiversity and monitor movements and Coast Conservation Division is ensure compliance with the Eligible residential homes and businesses in parts of the Central Coast can now place an order to upgrade their NBN connection to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

This includes parts of Erina, Erina Heights, Green Point, Holgate, Matcham and Springfield.

The upgrades will be available on demand where a customer in an eligible premises seeks a higher speed service through a retail service provider.

This will allow residents and businesses to take advantage of the faster speeds which are increasingly important in a digital society and economy.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the Federal Labor Government’s investment to expand NBN fibre access was a gamechanger.

“This announcement is an opportunity for eligible local families and businesses to enjoy the benefits of a faster, more reliable fibre connection,” he said.

“I welcome NBN Co’s commitment to supporting the families and businesses on the Central Coast and encourage the community to check the NBN website to see whether they are eligible for an upgrade.”

Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said the NBN was a key investment in the nation’s future.

“Since 2009, the network has kept Australians connected, supported telehealth and remote education and boosted economic productivity by expanding access to new customers for small businesses,” she said.

“The Federal Labor Government is committed to ensuring that Australians get the full benefit of the NBN’s potential by enabling as many NBN lines to access full fibre connections as possible.”

To further expand the benefits of fibre connections, the Government has invested $2.4B to enable an additional 1.5 million premises to transition from Fibre to the Node (FTTN) to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) by 2025 – more than 660,000 of which will be in regional areas.

For more information on upgrade eligibility, visit www.nbn.com.au/ fibreupgrade

investigating obvious signs of destruction at a cultural site in Ourimbah State Forest.

The Camp Ourimbah campaign against forest logging says the incident begs the question of how well sites on the Central Coast are maintained by the bodies that are charged to protect them.

Camp Ourimbah spokesperson Ursula Da Silva said in Ourimbah State Forest, numerous and obvious machine marks scar the surface of a rock platform that contains ancient axe grinding grooves.

“Motorbike tyre skids run along the rock face,” she said.

“There is graffiti all over paintings in a nearby cave and what appears to be more scratching and damage done near another grinding groove.”

The discovery of damage on the rock platform triggered the Indigenous Party of Australia to come to Ourimbah and visit the site in November 2021.

Their findings were “disturbing” and led to the party contacting relevant ministers, the EDO and the EPA. “The EPA has referred the matter to the Department of Planning and Environment’s Biodiversity and Conservation Division for investigation,” EPA Senior Media Advisor Andrew Thomas said late last year.

Darkinoong custodian Renee Sales doesn’t believe adequate protections exist at the site.

The rock platform has been scarred by machine marks

“Recent reports of vandalism at the nearby Bulgandry site and the slow response to create an action plan for prevention of damage to Bulgandry is distressing at worst,” she said.

“But to see the lack of proper care and protection of an already damaged site at Ourimbah shows me Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) is not taking adequate measures to protect our cultural heritage, which is heartbreaking.

“Signs exist at either end of this cultural site which sits in the middle of a logging compartment.

“These signs list forms of prohibited damage including damaging, scratching, driving vehicles over and impacting the fabric of the rock or artefact and altering the cultural values of the place.

“These offences can result in

fines of up to $1.1M and imprisonment.

“The irony is that every single form of damage listed in these signs has already occurred.

“While it is good that gates now exist to stop car dumping, there are no signs indicating areas of significance on the rock platform.

“There is no information explaining the significance of this area.

“There are no fenced-off areas protecting paintings or grinding grooves – not even from motorbikes.

“There is nothing to educate the public.

“The area is neglected and nothing is in place to encourage understanding of the cultural site.

“Delegates from the AsiaPacific Forestry Commission were given a tour of the forest

while the majority of the local community remains uneducated and unaware of the history and significance of this area.”

Da Silva said machine marks all over the rock platform contradicted FCNSW’s stated intention of exploring every avenue to avoid harming Aboriginal sites.

A Forestry Corporation spokesperson said Ourimbah State Forest, which was dedicated in 1916 and has been harvested and regrown for more than 100 years, has more than 100 recorded cultural heritage sites that are protected from forestry operations and in most cases not accessible to the public.

“Where forestry operations occur, cultural heritage sites are mapped and protected in consultation with the local Aboriginal community

marked protections,” they said.

“Sadly, damage to rock platforms in general may have occurred as early as the 1920s when bulldozers began to be used for track construction while rock damage and graffiti on this site seems to have occurred many years or decades ago, prior to the introduction or improvements to cultural heritage and environmental legislation, land management processes, and community awareness.

“The area has previously been assessed by the Local Aboriginal Land Council and other community representatives who shared their knowledge and experience by providing management and conservation recommendations.”

The spokesperson said while most forest users visited responsibly, previously parts of Ourimbah State Forest had been subject to substantial vandalism, including severe surface damage from fourwheel drives and motorbikes and dumping of vehicles.

“As a result, in 2020 Forestry Corporation, in consultation with the local police, RFS, Central Coast Council, the local Aboriginal community and residents, closed Wallaby Rd and Middle Ridge Rd and installed barriers to restrict access and help protect environmental and cultural heritage values in this forest.”

Terry Collins

New community hall for Norah Head Central Coast Council has officially opened the new community hall and playground at Norah Head, with a celebration event attended by members of the community.

The $1.7M project has been completed after Central Coast Council received $935,000 from the NSW Government, with Council funding the remaining $765,000 from planned capital expenditure.

Council Director for Community and Recreational Services Melanie Smith said the opening ceremony was attended by residents and community groups.

“Council undertook community consultation to inform the design and construction of the venue, which has resulted in a fabulous modern facility, transforming what was previously in place,”

she said.

Key features of the new facility include a multifunctional hall, kitchen, storage, accessible familyfriendly amenities, a children’s playspace and picnic area.

The project was completed

by North Construction and Building.

“Council worked with a community working group on the project including representatives from Norah Head Residents Association, Hockey Club and the Playground Association to make sure the facility was fit for purpose,” Smith said.

“The new facility replaces the dilapidated Norah Head Hall at 75 Bungary Rd and the ageing hockey building at Lawson St.” Council Administrator Rik Hart applauded the community groups and residents for their role in working with Council to

The new hall Photo: North Construction and Building

help design and plan the new community hall.

“The facility is one that Council and the community are proud of, and will be used for physical activity classes, meetings, birthday parties and much more,” he said.

“It is now available for the community to book and enjoy.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the new facilities were a great demonstration of what was possible when state and local governments worked together with communities.

“The community hall at Norah Head is a key piece of community infrastructure

which was demonstrated by the passion to save the old hall,” he said.

“This new facility will be a meeting place for the tight-knit community from young children in the playgroup to the excellent Norah Head Residents Association and Panthers Hockey Club.

“The new hall and playground are a celebration of community engagement.”

To view a summary of the community engagement visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/ norahheadcommunityhall Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch also welcomed the opening of the new hall, saying it represents the focus the former State Government had on the Central Coast, having been funded under the former Liberal-National government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.

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Coast celebrates and welcomes new citizens

Town Crier Stephen Clark with the Brink family: Tania, Kara, Andries and Andries

More than 200 new citizens were welcomed into the local community when Central Coast Council conducted a Citizenship Ceremony on Monday, January 29.

Held at The Art House at Wyong, the ceremony saw 220 new citizens from 41 different

countries take the pledge to become Aussie citizens.

It was a fitting conclusion to Australia Day festivities in the region, which saw 10,000 participate in events at Toukley, The Entrance and Gosford on January 26.

Around 5500 attended the Toukley event on Australia Day

eve which concluded with fireworks, with around 3000 at the Gosford Australia Day event which commenced at 4pm and concluded again with fireworks.

Several thousand people enjoyed the Australia Day activities at The Entrance during the day, particularly in the town and along the waterway, but the extreme

Hundreds gathered at Copacabana waterfront

heat no doubt did have an impact.

Meanwhile, hundreds of residents and visitors flocked to the Copacabana waterfront on January 26 despite temperatures of up to 37 degrees.

The Australia Day flag raising ceremony, conducted by the

Navy Veterans’ Welfare Association, commenced at 10am with the unfolding of the national flag by eight Copacabana residents.

“The flag was paraded around the green to the music of Waltzing Matilda and the National Anthem was played as the flag was raised to the top of the mast,” spokesperson

Roque Hammal said.

The Association gave away over 300 small Aussie icon koalas, kangaroos and 150 small Australian flags on the day and there was free ice cream for younger Australians.

Plenty of family photos were taken with a kangaroo wearing an Aussie flag.

Extended work hours on railway upgrade

Scaffolding is visible for platform 2 lift construction

How the upgraded railway station will look when complete in 2025

As part of ongoing upgrade work at Tuggerah Railway Station construction hours on Saturdays have been extended, starting in February until the project is complete in 2025.

Construction hours are now 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday and from 7am and 6pm on Saturdays.

Transport for NSW is planning to carry out electrical testing within the train station between 8pm and 2am on Wednesday, February 14, and Thursday, February 15.

Other work planned for February work includes: general construction works, including delivery and removal of plant and materials;

surveying and site investigations; and adjustments to hoardings and fencing to facilitate construction works.

Also low-growing shrub vegetation will be removed to enable installation of temporary ramps and there will be: formwork, reinforcement and concrete pours; crane movements to assist with construction; earthworks including waste classification; and removal of waste materials.

Other work during February will include: relocation of lights, cameras and signs on both platforms; completion of new structural supports under Platform 1; and installation of pits for utility connections for the station.

Time to nominate a local hero The 2024 Westfield Local Heroes program is now open with Tuggerah Westfield accepting nominations for unsung heroes in the community, who go above and beyond to make a positive change for the people around them, the environment or other important community causes.

Last year’s Westfield Tuggerah winner, Mirandra Browne of The Entrance Food Hub, won $20,000 for the community initiative.

With nominations open until March 18, the Westfield Local Heroes program celebrates the community’s positive role models by shining a spotlight on them and their cause offering $20,000 and $5,000 grants, totalling $1.26M annually, to provide vital support to community organisations and the work they do.

As the program enters its seventh consecutive year, its alumni have continued to benefit the community with contributions of $7.395M in

grants to more than 700 community organisations since its inception in 2018.

Westfield Local Heroes alumni represent a variety of fields, including family and youth support, health and wellbeing, inclusion and equity, community resilience and environmental sustainability.

Selected by a panel of Westfield team members and local community partners, the program sees a shortlist of three finalists selected for each Westfield centre, which will then be put to the community

to vote for their local hero for 2024 between August 20 and September 9.

The successful hero of each Westfield centre will be awarded a $20,000 grant for the group or organisation they represent, and the two other finalists will each receive a $5,000 grant.

Grant recipients will be announced on October 15.

For more information and to nominate your Westfield Local Heroes, visit www.westfield. co.nz/local-heroes

Last year’s Westfield Tuggerah winner Mirandra Browne

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Matthew’s our Citizen of the Year At the age of just 18, Matthew Blakemore has been named the region’s Citizen of the Year for 2024 at Central Coast Council’s annual Australia Day Awards.

A sports lover, Blakemore is a state representative for discus and shot put and is also a keen solo overseas traveller.

As he lives with autism and an intellectual disability, Blakemore is extremely focused with a strong sense of justice and works to build greater understanding of the needs of young people with a disability and the challenges and barriers they experience.

He works full time at Central Coast Granite and also does overnight weekend shifts at McDonalds.

Blakemore has been appointed to the Research Board of the University of Technology of Sydney to help ensure that research on young people is relevant and is inclusive with the current project being developed called Wellbeing of Young Autistic Australians.

He was asked to speak at Parliament House on his transition from school to work with the Prime Minister in attendance and has been working with Next Level Inclusion to develop Easy Read document versions for organisations including St John Ambulance Service and the government to make their information accessible for people with an intellectual disability or for those whose English might not be their first language.

Blakemore believes strongly that young people with disabilities need opportunities to be able to be successful and access the same information as everyone else.

Coast Council Director of Community and Recreation, Melanie Smith, said the annual awards were a way for Council and the wider community to celebrate and recognise individuals and organisations who enriched the community.

Central Coast Council’s 2024 Australia Day Award winners (from left): Robert Mulvey, Te’re Melrose (Doggie Dates NSW), Howard Oxley (Elderslee Foundation), Matthew Blakemore, Taia Sansom (3 Villages Community Group), Regina Doyle, Anannya Bandaru and Roberta Dixon-Valk

“The recipient of the 2024 Citizen of the Year award, Matthew Blakemore embodies the word ‘community’, and strives to build greater awareness around the needs of young people with a disability,” she said.

“Matthew’s contributions extend beyond the Central Coast community.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the awards were a fantastic way to shine a spotlight on worthy individuals working to make our community a better, more inclusive place to live, work and play.

“As well as congratulating this year’s winners, I would also like to congratulate all those who were nominated,” he said.

“Thank you all for the outstanding contribution you each make within our community every day.

“All recipients share important characteristics in serving the community, which include selflessness, commitment and generosity.

“Along with this, they all work to bring different groups together within our community.”

Joint winners of the Community Group award are the 3 Villages Community Group and the Elderslee Foundation.

The 3 Villages Community Group is a local based group working for and on behalf of Yattalunga, Saratoga and Davistown.

It works with other local

groups, residents and businesses to apply for funding and grants from local and state government, and other avenues where possible.

The group has successfully delivered many projects including: the replacement of park furniture and shade shelter at Lintern Reserve, Davistown; the supply and installation of sun lounges at Centennial Ave, Saratoga; and the creation of an accessible concrete pathway surrounding the play space at Jirramba Reserve, Saratoga.

The group’s involvement in the upgrade of play spaces and fish cleaning tables demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that residents have access to well-maintained and enjoyable open spaces.

The group aims to see the ideas and dreams of residents delivered where and if possible, to make enhancements for the whole community.

The Elderslee Foundation originated as a retirement village.

A significant shift occurred in 2012, when the Foundation divested itself of the retirement village and reinvested the funds into the Central Coast community, aiming to uplift and enhance the wellbeing of its older residents.

While initially concentrating on the elderly, the Elderslee Foundation soon expanded its reach to support projects across all age demographics.

This broader focus has

allowed the Foundation to significantly assist a multitude of Central Coast agencies.

The Foundation achieved another milestone in 2018, acquiring a warehouse at Tuggerah and ambitiously transforming it into the Red Tree Theatre – a vibrant arts and community centre.

Since its inauguration, it has attracted nearly 30,000 visitors, hosting a range of events from plays and musicals to conferences, and workshops.

Highly commended was Doggie Dates NSW, an inclusive, free, social dog walking group on the Central Coast that runs 20 dog walks per week.

Winner of the Community Life category is Roberta DixonValk, who has an extensive background in marine and coastal resource management and has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and innovation in her field.

She serves as the Co-Founder and Head of Research, Development and Innovation at Take 3 for the Sea and has spent more than 30 years working to look after the health of the oceans, estuaries, rivers, plants and animal ecosystems on the Central Coast.

In 2009, Dixon-Valk and friend Amanda Marechal had the idea to establish Take 3 for the Sea. The initiative hopes to inspire everyone, every day, to participate in the simple yet powerful call-to-action: take

three pieces of rubbish with you when you leave the beach, waterway, or anywhere, and you’ve made a difference.

The move was a proactive response to the ongoing issue of plastic pollution leaking into our oceans, choking marine wildlife and harming human health.

The message has spread to 129 countries, rallying participants from all corners of the globe to take part in the call-to-action.

Volunteer of the Year is Regina Doyle, who built Her Cave Incorporated.

After having to leave work due to illness, she sought out friendship and a place to meet new people on the Central Coast and found other women who were also experiencing loss, depression, loneliness, empty home syndrome and boredom.

She opened her own home to other women to connect and it wasn’t long before she built Her Cave Incorporated, located at Kanwal.

Not only does Doyle give up her time seven days a week, she oversees the day to day running of Her Cave Incorporated.

This includes organising members, running craft classes, setting up donations/ collections, applying for grants and most of all being a valuable friend to everyone.

Young Person of the Year is Anannya Bandaru, a Year 10 student at Gosford High School.

She is a part of Elite Leadership Force in her school and is a very kind and empathetic person, passionate about volunteering and bringing a change to the local community.

Anannya recently started her own initiative called KalpaVruksha – Zero Hunger Program, where she collects fresh food, toys, books and non-perishable food items to donate to people in need, including the Woy Woy Community Food Pantry and Coast Shelter.

Within this program she has donated cleaning and sanitary supplies, vouchers for single parents and Easter hampers, has run Mother’s Day drives and donates her own money to Gosford Hospital for cancer research.

Senior Citizen of the Year is Robert Mulvey or Bob as his friends know him.

He moved to the Central Coast in 1991 at the age of 58 and immediately established himself as someone who cares about his local community at The Entrance North and its surrounding areas.

He joined several community organisations including The Entrance North Progress Association, North Entrance Surf Club, The Entrance Lions Club and The North Entrance Land Care volunteers working in co-operation with Central Coast Council.

Mulvey is a tireless worker and inspiration to all citizens but especially to the elder members of the community.

At 83 years of age, he is still volunteering and has been the President of The Entrance North Progress Association for more than 20 years, where he has led works to improve local facilities including new children’s playgrounds and protection of North Entrance beach.

He also organises the Clean Up Australia event each year along the shores of Tuggerah Lake at North Entrance.

New tax cuts a “good thing” for Coast, says Reid Member for Robertson Gordon Reid says the Federal Government’s latest tax cuts, announced on January 25, were a good thing for the Central Coast.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese copped some flack from the Opposition for breaking a pre-election promise not to change planned stage three tax cuts, but Reid said the Government was

delivering a bigger cut for more people to help with the rising cost of living.

“Cost of living is a significant issue for our community on the Central Coast,” he said.

“A competent government listens and adapts to make things better, when needed.

“Addressing cost of living pressures is my number one priority and when economic

circumstances change, the right thing to do is adapt your economic policy.

“From July 1, every Australian taxpayer will get a tax cut.

“We will deliver a tax cut that benefits more Australians, and we are doing it in a way that is fair and responsible.”

The Government says the new tax cuts are designed to provide cost-of-living relief to

middle Australia while making the tax system fairer.

Every taxpayer on the Central Coast will receive a tax break from July 1, with the average cut being $1,580 in Robertson, $1,430 in Dobell and $1,551 in Shortland.

There are 56,000 people in Robertson, 61,000 people in Dobell and 57,000 in Shortland, or 85 per cent per cent of taxpayers in Robertson, 88 per

cent in Dobell and 85 per cent in Shortland, who will receive a bigger tax cut than they would have under the plan former Prime Minister Scott Morrison legislated five years ago.

The average Australian wage earner on $73,000 per annum will receive a tax cut of $1,504 which is more than $800 extra in their pocket each year than they would have received under the former proposal.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said delivering more relief for more workers without adding to inflationary pressures or burdening the budget was “the right thing to do”.

To find out how much you will benefit from Labor’s tax cuts, use the calculator on the Treasury website: www. treasury.gov.au/tax-cuts/ calculator

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NEWS IN BRIEF Special ceremony of remembrance and gratitude On January 26, Cancer descendants of the Broken Bay Tribe gathered with fundraiser community members for a

A dance spectacular with A Hat Trick of bands will be held on Sunday, February 24, at Wyong Leagues club to raise funds for Crestani Scholarships.

It will be headed by Mr James Band, Matchbox and Rave On with DJ Rina as the host with music of all types from rock n roll to cha cha and swing.

For bookings call 0439 806 548.

Activists meet The Central Coast Activist Collective will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, February 7, from 11.30am1pm at Ourimbah RSL Club All welcome.

New water tech Central Coast Council Water and Sewer is investing $200,000 into new technology which is set to improve water service reliability and enhance water conservation in the region.

Essential works, training and installation will start in February.

special ceremony, as they do each Australia Day. “It is not a protest, it is not about changing the day, nor is it a political platform for the debate as to whose country the Central Coast is,” a spokesperson said.

“It is a solemn ceremony of remembrance and gratitude.”

Around 300 people gathered at Alagai Bay (Copacabana beach) at 7am, sitting above ceremonial fires.

At 7.30am a Welcome and a song in the traditional language of Broken Bay Tribe called everyone together.

“The Welcome and the song were simple; come as you are, join us together as one as we pay respect and remember those ancestors who have bled for this country,” the spokesperson said.

“Ancestors who lost 80 per cent of their family and loved ones within 12 months of occupation due to a disease they had no way of fighting; ancestors who were massacred in places around the Central Coast and dispossessed of their tribal land; ancestors

Around 300 people gathered at Copacabana

whose spirit continues to live on today on the Central Coast through the remaining custodians who are keeping song, language and ceremony alive.

“We give respect to the sea, mother earth and sky father and ask for their protection and guidance as we continue to navigate continued dispossession and lack of recognition for our language and culture.

“As the song was sung, a pod

of dolphins who were in the area came close to shore to listen to the song and to connect with everyone on the beach; such is the power of language and song.”

The song was followed by a very simple message in English.

“We choose as a group of Aboriginal people not to stand in trauma but in the healing nature of connection to lore and to landscape,” the spokesperson said.

“While this is a day of remembrance it is also a day of gratitude for everything we have in this wonderful country today.

“Three hundred people then went through the beautiful healing smoke.

“Some went through quickly, others lingered, some cried and released whatever they were carrying.

“What was obvious is that this was a demonstration of

community spirit, togetherness and inclusion.

“This is what Blood Line custodians, the descendants of the Broken Bay Tribe, want for both the Aboriginal community on the Central Coast and the broader community.

“After the ceremony, it was wonderful to see so many families spend time together in the water laughing, talking and simply just being together, without any agenda.”

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Coasties recognised in

Eight Central Coast residents have been recognised in the 2024 Australia Day Honours List, one of them posthumously.

Governor-General David Hurley announced honours and awards for 1,042 Australians on January 26, saying they had all had an impact at the local, national and/or international level.

“Individually, they are inspiring and collectively they speak to the strength of our communities,” he said.

One Central Coast resident was awarded an AM, four were awarded an OAM and three received Australian Fire Service Medals (AFSM).

Here are the Coasties honoured:

Professor Brett Mitchell AM

said as far back as he could remember he had wanted to make a difference in people’s lives.

He has achieved that goal by becoming a major influence on the infection prevention and control agenda in Australia through his committee roles at such as on the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC), the first nurse to have chaired one of these committees.

Brett Mitchell AM An internationally recognised researcher in infection prevention and control, Professor Brett Mitchell of Green Point has been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to nursing.

With extensive clinical experience coupled with his academic and research skills, Mitchell has set his sights on addressing the serious issue of controlling infection in healthcare settings.

With one in 10 patients in an Australian hospital acquiring an infection during their hospital stay, Mitchell, an author and internationally renowned speaker, said finding solutions to preventing infections from occurring in the first instance was his area of concern.

Mitchell, who moved to the Central Coast about 10 years ago, said he was honoured by the award.

“I do believe we can make a difference with research – good research which would inform best practice,” he said.

“I believe there have to be better ways of preventing infection; for instance looking at environmental cleanliness and how important it is in a hospital setting.

“What we could do in clinical practice to prevent infection, from a care point of view.”

As an academic and researcher, Mitchell has more than 150 peer-reviewed journal and conference presentations, has authored several books and has been an invited speaker at numerous infection prevention and control conferences in Australia and internationally.

A Fellow of the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control and the Australian College of Nursing, Mitchell

carnivals since 2001.

She was named Club Person of the Year in 2017 and Volunteer of the Year in 2018.

Aside from surf lifesaving, Cole has been very involved with the Parents and Citizens Association and is a life member at Gosford and Wyong high schools, after acting as the P&C Federation’s State Treasurer from 2003 to 2005 and Central Coast Councillor from 1992 to 2003.

In 2005 she was awarded the Federation’s Distinguished Service Award.

She is a life member of Jilliby Public School P&C, was president in 2017-18, is a former treasurer and has been a member since the 1980s.

her future husband.

“I was 17 and was introduced to him at church in New Lambton,” she said.

“A voice in my head said this is the one, and it was.

“I knew him for 70 years and we were married for 65 years.

“He would be very shocked to get this award.”

Hazelwood remained chaplain at Ourimbah campus until 2022 and was an executive member of the Tertiary Campus Ministry Association (Australia) where he was treasurer from 2000 to 2017 and a member for 25 years.

The former deacon and parish priest with the Newcastle Diocese, was also active in the Anzac Day Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Doyalson Wyee RSL Sub-Branch.

Cathy Cole OAM

Yngling is pronounced ying ling and is Norwegian for youngster.

“It looks like a small sailing yacht with a keel separate from the rudder,” Harper said.

“It’s the biggest threeperson keel boast class of its size in world.”

Over 30 years he has watched the number of Yngling sailors rise from around 390 to 3500 boats racing.

He has a trophy named after him and helps structure championships all over the world.

He was also instrumental in getting international class rules changed to allow sailing in Sydney Harbour.

Harper was chairman of the NSW Yachting Foundation for nine years and co-ordinator of the World Youth Sailing Championships in 2001.

He has been chairman of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron publications committee since 2010.

Cathy Cole OAM When Cathy Cole of Jilliby was informed she would be awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to surf lifesaving and the community, her initial reaction was disbelief.

“I remember thinking I don’t deserve this, I was totally shocked,” she said.

“I was very surprised; it’s a huge honour.”

“It’s quite unbelievable.”

A member of Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club since 1992, Cole has her father, David Roberts, to thank for her dedication to surf lifesaving and the community in general.

“My father received an OAM for his involvement in surf lifesaving and played a pivotal role in many changes in the surf lifesaving movement,” Cole said.

While it’s about a two hour round trip from Jilliby to Terrigal, Cole is patrol captain and coach, particularly in what she describes as the more traditional aspects of the movement, including rescue and resuscitation and march pasts.

She has been an official and judge at the Australian championships since 2005, and judge at state and federal levels and has been an official and referee at competition

He is the current branch historian and has held various management committee positions over many years with Surf Life Saving Central Coast where has been patron since 2007 and a life member since 1998.

He is the former president of Shelly Beach Surf Life Saving Club, patron since 1990 and a life member since 1982.

He has also held various management committee positions with the club since the 1980s.

He has held various positions with Surf Life Saving NSW and has been a life member since 2004.

A founding member of the Tuggerah Lakes Winter Swimming Club and still an active member, Lupica got a 100 per cent attendance record for last season.

The first-generation Australian remains passionate about surf lifesaving.

“I always try to promote surf lifesaving because it is the Australian way of life,” he said.

“It has fresh air, sunshine and camaraderie.”

The late Roy Hazlewood OAM

The late Roy Hazlewood OAM The late Roy Hazelwood was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the Anglican Church of Australia.

Hazelwood lived with his wife of 65 years, Maureen, at Kanwal until his death at the age of 93 on New Year’s Day last year.

The couple moved to the Central Coast from Newcastle in 1995 when Hazelwood was meant to retire.

“The bishop knew he was too young to retire mentally, so he asked him to be the chaplain at the Ourimbah campus, and he had been doing that ever since,” Mrs Hazelwood said.

“He loved it.

“He loved talking to people and he did a lot of counselling.

“He would also fill in at Terrigal church.

“He was still working when he died, still reading and still studying sociology.”

Mrs Hazelwood clearly remembers the day she met

Chris Harper OAM

Chris Harper OAM Chris Harper of Gosford has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to sailing.

Harper said he was very honoured when he learnt of the award.

Formerly from Sydney, Harper moved to Gosford in 2019 and promptly joined Gosford Sailing Club after a lifetime of being involved with sailing.

A Life Member of the International Yngling Association and life member of Sailing Friends Worldwide, Harper was secretary, president, treasurer and chief measurer during various stages with the International Yngling Association and deputy chairman and organising committee member of the World Youth Sailing Championships in 2000.

The Yngling is a sleek small racing keelboat designed by Norwegian Jan Herman Linge.

Warren Lupica OAM

Warren Lupica OAM Warren Lupica of Berkeley Vale has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to surf lifesaving.

“I was very surprised to be nominated,” he said.

Over a 60-year period, Lupica has been involved in surf lifesaving and still visits his beloved Shelly Beach almost every day.

“I have definitely seen a lot of changes over the years like during the 1980s when the ladies were brought into the movement,” he said.

“I have seen a lot of changes in equipment as well; I’ve seen the old belt and line disappear, and now even the rubber duckie is starting to disappear, replaced with jet skis and drones.”

Jamie Loader AFSM

Jamie Loader AFSM When he’s not serving the community as Central Coast Council’s Director for Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader is captain of Wyong Fire Station, constantly on call as a retained firefighter.

Loader said he was “surprised more than anything” to receive the accolade.

“It was a real shock but obviously something I am proud of,” he said.

Loader joined Fire and Rescue 21 years ago.

“I was doing an office job at Council but I also wanted to use my hands – do some physical outdoor work to help the community,” he said.

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Australia Day Honours List “I lived close to the fire station and was able to give the availability and commitment needed.”

As the Captain of Wyong fire station, he is the officer in charge at emergency incident, responsible for the safety of all crew members and ensuring the safety of the community.

During the 2019-20 bushfires his decision-making helped save countless lives and properties.

He has gained wide operational and administrative experience within FRNSW, being a long-time advocate and participant in the FRNSW Firefighter Championships.

In recent years, this has resulted in numerous State and National Firefighting Championship successes for the Wyong Fire and Rescue crew.

Loader has faced some frightening scenarios during his firefighting career.

“During the Lake Munmorah bushfires in 2013 we were at the Big Prawn service station and overrun by a fast-moving fire,” he said.

“That was pretty scary.”“

Loader said seeing the station and other firefighters develop was one of his greatest pleasures.

John McGarvey AFSM

John McGarvey AFSM McGarvey, of East Gosford, has made a consistent, dedicated and selfless contribution to firefighting, community safety and mental health education since joining Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) in 2005.

“I always wanted to be a firie,” he said.

“I was working as a carpenter for a building company when Fire and Rescue advertised for staff and friends encouraged

me to apply.

“It’s been a wonderful career and I have enjoyed every second of it.”

He has attended numerous emergency incidents including hazardous material incidents, bushfires including 2019-20 black summer campaign and storm and tempest events.

He co-developed a peer led Good Mental Health for Fire Fighters presentation which was instrumental in promoting mental health awareness.

He also facilitated mental health first aid training for members of FRNSW and other external agencies in response to the 2019-20 bushfire emergency and rolled out a mindfulness and resilience program for first responders.

“Sometimes people forget our first responders have the normal challenges of life and then we ask them to turn up to a police, fire or ambulance station and they are often confronted with seeing people on the worst day of their lives,” he said.

McGarvey sees supporting the mental health of first responders as vital work.

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“We have a range of tactics we use to prepare people for the types of incidents they might be exposed to and programs for intervention after potentially traumatic events or critical incidents,” he said.

“I have been heavily involved in the peer support arena. ““It is very rewarding to be able to be there as a source of support and assistance and provide advice and referral options to others.”

Barry Myers AFSM

Barry Myers AFSM With a career spanning almost 30 years with the Rural Fire Service, Barry Myers said he felt “honoured, privileged

and overwhelmed” to receive the AFSM. “I had no idea I was going to get it and was blown away,” he said.

Myers was first introduced to the RFS when a friend invited him to think about joining in 1994.

“I started at Kariong soon afterwards,” he said.

“I joined to help the community I live in and have made many friends over the years.”

Myers has held the positions of deputy captain, senior deputy captain and captain.

In 2003, he was elected deputy group captain and he was group captain from 200818.

Following a short break after moving out of the area to Tamworth, he returned to a group officer position in 2020 and currently holds the rank of group captain (Central Coast District).

He also returns to Tamworth on weekends to help out and train others.

“It’s been very rewarding in one way and challenging in another but I have really

enjoyed my time with RFS,” he said.

In addition to operational leadership roles, Myers has held positions of president, vice president and brigade training officer, showing exceptional leadership skills in operations, brigade management and mentoring.

He held significant operational leadership roles in the 2001, 2002 and 2019 major bush fire events on the Central Coast, the 1998 Newcastle disease outbreak and the 2007, 2015, 2021 and 2022 East Coast Low weather and flood events.

He has also travelled around NSW, and to other states, supporting communities in need and supports members through the local Group Officer Mentoring Program.

For the past three years, Myers has provided significant logistics and maintenance support to the district, often volunteering five days a week in this role.

Denice Barnes and Terry Collins

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, 1 FEBRUARY 2024

FORUM & ON THE BEAT Change to Acknowledgement should be rescinded On Tuesday, January 23, I attended the Central Coast Council meeting … (and) a decision was made, it seems unilaterally, by Administrator Rick Hart without consultation or acknowledgement of the opposing speakers or the public attendees to the meeting.

This decision was made in haste without wider community consultation and was not conducted in a democratic (way).

(Of) concern was item 2.2 Changes to the Acknowledgement of Country.

At the meeting, there was strong attendance opposing changing the Acknowledgement.

Darkinjung is only a name for the land council formed in the eighties, not inclusive or acknowledging the existing local custodians of the Central Coast.

Almost all present (at the meeting) were opposed to the change.

Mr Hart needed to require all members of the advisory committee to publicly declare all their interests before the recommendation was put to Council.

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He needed to declare at the meeting how many emails he received prior to the Council meeting opposing this change.

There is no evidence (on which) to have based such a decision with researching Indigenous knowledge (and) genealogy.

This decision to adopt the change of is not inclusive of preexisting Central Coast Indigenous groups.

It is offensive, dispossessing local land tribes, and must be challenged, investigated and rescinded.

This decision was not inclusive or representative of the true local Elders.

Email, January 25 K. Erling, Woy Woy

Sensible balance needed Jared Wright’s letter (CCN 423 Councillors fundamental to a brighter future) suggests that apart from the “3 Rs” new councillors should be focused on fiscal and economic management and the social needs of the Central Coast.

I would suggest that as well as those issues, our elected councillors (will need) to focus on achieving a sensible balance

between development and our environment.

This is especially so as climate change continues its inevitable advance with more extreme impacts.

Tellingly, the article on page three of the same issue (Peninsula in crisis over lack of trees) predicts an unliveable Peninsula as a result of Council’s own failure to enforce its current planning provisions in regard to overdevelopment and continued loss of trees.

(This is) a failure that is already spreading across the Coast, threatening the same dismal outcome for more suburbs.

For me it would be a concern if the new councillors don’t have protection of the environment (in mind) as further development takes place.

Email, Jan 29 Carey Buls, Saratoga

Time for Council to wake up Central Coast Council should hang its head in shame (Toukley loses ice creamery to Newcastle, CCN423).

A young person has the

passion and skill to set up and run a successful small business from scratch.

Olivia Duff did everything that was asked of her.

Yet, Council decided to listen to one complaint, basically tore up their original approval, and told Olivia to shut her small business down immediately.

At a time when it is hard for youngpeopletofindemployment on the Coast, Olivia’s small business flourished and, as a consequence, employed five “young staff”.

The closure of a thriving small business under the most suspect of decisions will not encourage others to choose the Coast as a place to set up business.

The lack of consultation and total disregard for any form of mediation combined with uncertainty surrounding approvals compounds the wariness.

Furthermore, the temerity of the Council to say Olivia “could sue them” displays the arrogance of an unelected Council and how free it is with ratepayers’ money.

One way to tackle inflation and thereby ease the cost of living is to increase Australian-

Exploding cans spark bushland fire

Email, Jan 26 Rosalyn Childs, Gorokan

Setting the record straight I would like to correct some of the misinformation in the article entitled Toukley loses ice creamery to Newcastle published on January 25 (CCN423).

Council welcomes and supports small businesses operating across the Central

Coast.

Council also works hard to assist business operators to meet their obligations under NSW legislation.

Around 18 months ago, Council provided advice to Duff’s Ice Cream that development consent from Council was required, in addition to notification to Council under the Food Act and approval from the NSW Food Authority for the manufacturing of ice cream.

The development consent was not sought.

Subsequently, Council received complaints about amenity and safety impacts of the operation, which was located in a residential area.

After providing Duff’s Ice Cream with extensive opportunities to address those concerns, we made the difficult decision to require the shipping container to be removed from the site.

Council looks forward to the business returning to the Central Coast with appropriate approvals to operate.

Email, Jan 31 Alice Howe, Director Environment and Planning, Central Coast Council

POLICE BRIEFS Two serving police officers have been charged following an investigation into an assault incident on the Central Coast in December, 2020.

The two officers were issued court attendance notices on Tuesday, January 23.

A 49-year-old male senior constable, attached to a command in the Northern region, has been charged with

Firefighters at Avoca Beach bushfire

Pumper then responded to Killcare to assist NSW Ambulance with an injured bushwalker on the Maitland

Bay walking track.

The injured bushwalker was safely transported to an awaiting ambulance.

Killcare Wagstaffe Rural Fire Brigade and Fire and Rescue were also in attendance.

Caught speeding in new sports car A P-plate driver has been fined $3,740 and 21 demerit points after being caught speeding at Bushells Ridge.

At about 9:50pm on Sunday, January 28, Police attached to Tuggerah Lakes Highway Patrol were conducting speed enforcement on the M1.

An HSV Clubsport R8 sedan was detected at Bushells Ridge travelling at 160km/h in the 110km/h zone.

made products, and exports.

The RBA can only play around with interest rates, but federal, state and local governments have the ability to lower inflation by increasing manufacturing.

Australia needs to stop being turned into a consumerist nation and, instead, become a nation of producers.

Manufacturing needs to be increased and small businesses are one way in which this can be achieved.

To shut down a thriving small business after one complaint shows wokeism is rife.

Minorities rule while the majority pays the price.

Wake up Central Coast Council.

Officers charged

Copacabana Rural Fire Brigade was called out on Tuesday morning, January 30, after bushland caught alight near the scout hall at Avoca Beach.

Firefighters arrived on scene and found a bushland area of about 20sqm alight.

It appeared that the fire was started from exploding deodorant cans and firefighters quickly extinguished it with a hose line.

Officers from Brisbane Water Police District are investigating the incident.

Shortly after attending the bushfire, the Copacabana

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Caught speeding by highway patrol

The driver, a 21-year-old man, produced a P2 Provisional drivers licence which has a speed limit of 100km/h.

Also, the high-performance

vehicle was restricted for use by provisional drivers.

There were no P plates attached to the vehicle.

Police issued the driver with

penalty notices for the offences of: P2 driver exceeding speed limit more than 45km/h; noncompliance P2 licence highperformance vehicle restriction; and not complying with requirement to display P plates.

These offences attracted a $3,740 fine and 21 demerit points as well as loss of licence for six months.

The driver had purchased the vehicle earlier in the day from the ACT and was driving it home.

common assault; and a 37-year-old male sergeant, attached to a specialist command, has been charged on two counts of common assault.

They are due to appear at Gosford Local Court on Thursday, March 7.

The employment status of both officers is under review.

Learner suspended A 19-year-old learner driver instantly lost his licence and was issued several penalty notices when he was detected travelling at 157km/h on the M1 at Tuggerah.

Tuggerah Lakes Highway Patrol clocked the Hyundai Sonata at 6.17pm on Sunday, January 21.

When stopped the driver produced a learner’s licence which has a speed restriction of 90km/h.

There were two passengers

in the vehicle, one also holding a learner’s licence and the other not holding any licence.

There were no L plates attached to vehicle and the rear number plate was not affixed to the vehicle to be clearly visible.

The address on the driver’s licence was incorrect.

The young driver from Cameron Park was issued with a number of penalty notices and his driver’s licence was suspended for six months.

School zones Motorists are reminded that 40km/h school zones recommenced on Tuesday, January 30.

Driving at a lower speed can reduce the risk and severity of

a crash in school zones.

Signage, road markings, speed humps and flashing lights will help identify school zones.

1 FEBRUARY 2024

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Frantastics are back in business

The Frantastics Choir

Having entertained audiences on the Central Coast and beyond for more than 18 years, the Frantastics Choir is looking forward to another busy year bringing music and laughter to many.

Registration will take place at 12.30pm on Monday, February 5, at Walter Baker Hall on the corner of Victoria and Blackwall Rds, Woy Woy. New members are more than welcome.

No auditions are held and the

The choir’s initial repertoire can be found on the choir’s website www.frantastics.org together with an introduction.

back seat while talented members, Thayer Donaldson (director of GMS choir) and Catherine Broady take over Monday sessions and conducting performances.

This year will see founder/ director Fran Kendall taking a

Pam Brown and Helen O’Shea will be the choralographers.

ability to read music is not essential.

Kendall will enjoy accompanying soloists at performances while talented Lindy Nankivell will accompany choral items.

Performances are of one hour’s duration and are either full choir renditions in two-part harmony together with solos or

an hilarious melodrama and soloists.

Performances are already booked throughout the year but more are welcome.

For more information re becoming a member or making a booking consult the website.

Join me in September to experience Essential Vietnam.

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In the North you will stay 3 nights in Hanoi - 2 nights cruising in luxury around Halong and Lan Ha bays aboard “Y‘lang“ and relaxing while at the Legacy resort Yen Tu. We move onto central Vietnam for our 3 nights stay at the Ancient town of Hoi An - plenty of time for shopping.

While in the South you will explore the Mekong Delta with two nights in Can Tho plus an overnight stay on a fleet of private Sampans, concluding our journey with 3 nights in vibrant Saigon. Our 16 Night luxury journey includes all sightseeing, 5 star hotels, most of our meals, carefully selected experiences, tour guides, gratuities and Visa. I hope you can join me for our exclusive small group journey (maximum 12 guests) to see the timeless charms of Vietnam and to taste the delicious cuisine. Call me at The Travellers Hut for more details - Cheers Glenn.

Y’lang - Halong Bay

Sampan - Mekong Delta

Y’lang - Cabin Halong Bay

Private Sampan Lounge AO Bamboo Show - Saigon

Sampan - Mekong Delta Hoi An - Central Vietnam

THE TRAVELLERS HUT - 43 63 1699 - travel@thetravellershut.com.au - 5a 39 Avoca Drive Kincumber

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Mexican harpist at Fun Haus Factory One of Australia’s leading world music artists is coming to the Central Coast for one night only on Friday, February 2.

Victor Valdes’ powerful, compelling voice, magical harp and passion for storytelling will take you on a unique sonorous journey through the many emotions of the Latin American musical landscape as he performs with his mariachi band at Gosford’s Fun Haus Factory.

The virtuoso Mexican musician, singer and dancer has redefined the harp as a solo and lead instrument and is a walking encyclopedia of Latin music past and present in a

multitude of musical contexts.

He has played with everyone from Angus and Julia Stone and Los Lobos to Jimmy Barnes and The Wiggles and was named Director’s Choice at Bluesfest.

Steeped in the folkloric traditions of his native Mexico as a dancer as well as a musician, Valdes began his career as Mexico’s national folkloric dance champion three years in succession, and since relocating to Australia has taught Latin dance, including at the Sydney Dance Company.

He has been recognised as a Distinguished Mexican by the government of Mexico and by the Institute

of Mexicans Abroad.

Valdes brings with him all of the exciting and emotive colours of Mexico’s musical landscape with authentic and masterful interpretations of traditional Mexican and Latin music.

The event is all ages with children under 15 admitted free (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).

Doors open at 5pm with $10 cocktail happy hour and Colombian street food empanadas for supper with the show kicking off at 7.30pm.

Online bookings only at naughtynoodle.com.au/whatson

Victor Valdes and his mariachi band

Love in the air at Laycock St Love will definitely be in the air at Laycock St Community Theatre this Valentine’s Day, with crooner Rhydian Lewis set to perform two big shows on February 14.

Crooner Rhydian Lewis

At 11am, Lewis and his fivepiece band will present Love Songs as part of the Morning Melodies program.

The performance will

showcase timeless classics such as Unforgettable, That’s Amore, Feeling Good and Spanish Eyes as the music of legendary crooners fills hearts with joy.

Lewis’s entertainment history is a tapestry of richness and variety.

He has graced the pages of UK Vogue and the screens of television audiences across Europe and the USA.

Lewis will return to the stage at 7.30pm for Love is in the Air, a night of timeless romance and captivating melodies.

Once again backed by his band The Residuals, Lewis will transport you to a world of love and passion with songs made famous by some of the world’s greatest crooners.

Heralded as Australia’s answer to the legendary Frank Sinatra and the charismatic

Michael Bublé, Lewis has an irresistible charm that never fails to captivate.

Bookings for both shows can be made on the theatre website.

Coast Community News readers can receive a 50 per cent discount on up to 20 tickets for Love is in the Air by using the promo code DATE when booking.

Fundraising soiree at Japanese Gardens ~ Est. 1988 ~

Complete Funeral Services in our Woy Woy Chapel

from 6,380.00 (GST inc.)

Seniors discount applies to all traditional funerals

Lucky Starr will headline in That’s Entertainment

Crestani Scholarships will present its annual fundraising soiree at the Japanese Garden at East Gosford on Sunday, February 18, from 5-7pm.

That’s Entertainment will feature a line-up of artists headlined by Lucky Starr and presented by compere Clair Hayes.

Also appearing will be Mr James Band and the Ceroc Dancers.

Popular dance troupe the Variety Dancers will showcase their talents with dazzling

costumes and there will be a special appearance by singers Tim Page and Michaele Archer from the Central Coast Conservatorium.

Music and art will combine to complement the beauty of the Japanese Garden’s design and culture from the Heian period.

You will be able to explore creations of local artisans and savour the Taste of the Bush.

“Supported by Central Coast Council, Crestani Scholarships has for many years enjoyed this wonderful venue to welcome supporters who

return year after year to be entertained in the magnificent surroundings,”Yvonne Crestani said.

“Apart from raising funds to contribute to the best possible treatment for cancer sufferers, this relaxing annual event offers a most pleasant afternoon of entertainment for the community.”

For more information go to https://crestanischolarships. org.au/, call 0412 993 253 or follow Crestani Scholarships on Facebook.

Office and Chapel

19 Charlton Street, Woy Woy (opp. Coles Deepwater Plaza)

Ample off street parking 43443023 - All Hours

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

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Love Lanes Festival returns to Wyong Wyong’s popular Love Lanes Festival will return for its seventh year on Saturday, February 10.

The evening festival will be sprinkling love across four lanes, four stages and one park with plenty of entertainment for all to enjoy.

Central Coast Council Director of Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the festival was an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful history of Wyong and celebrate with friends and loved ones.

“Council has worked closely with Wyong businesses and much-loved local organisations to create a program that’s packed with activities for the whole family,” she said.

“The festival will include four stages, aerial acrobatics, live art, a rock wall, chillout areas,

Last year’s Love Lanes Festival

market and food stalls.

“Ultimately, it’s a festival that will have you falling in love with art, culture, music and culinary experiences.

“This year’s mural is a story of celebration, of community and of home, a vibrant love letter inviting the viewer to interact with the work.

“It is a nod to the historical town centre of Wyong and a reflection of the beautiful natural environment we call home.

“Festivities will kick off at 4pm and run until 9pm.

“We encourage the community to take advantage of public transport when travelling to the festival, so you can spend more time exploring laneways, and less time exploring car parks.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the festival transforms Wyong’s heritage laneways and town park into an abundance of colour, sounds and smells.

“Love Lanes Festival continues to be a popular event for the community and it’s a wonderful event for local businesses and organisations to showcase their talents and expertise, and to celebrate this beautiful place Coasties call home,” he said.

To see the full event program, accessibility, the line-up for each of the stages and road closure information visit lovecentralcoast.com/lovelanes-festival Love Lanes Festival is presented by Central Coast Council and major sponsor The Mounties Group.

Rock Show Oz Edition returns to Art House The Rock Show Oz Edition is set to return to The Art House at Wyong in February, after selling out the last time it appeared at the theatre in 2021.

The Rock Show Oz Edition was the last in a long line of rock shows produced by Coralea Cameron and the late rock icon Jon English.

“As Jon passed away before he actually got to perform this show himself we now do the show in his honour, which I think he would be thrilled about,” Cameron said.

“He always loved a full standing ovation – which we invariably get!”

The show features Steve

Catch the show at The Art House on February 10

Mulry from the Ted Mulry Gang, along with band members from English’s last rock show, Trilogy of Rock.

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“This show celebrates an outstanding repertoire of classic Aussie Rock from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s,”

Cameron said.

“As in previous rock shows, the multi-talented band members all sing, harmonise

This was the one book I read last year that I allowed to disturb my sleep.

I was that naughty child under the covers with a torch hoping I would not wake my husband as I wanted to reach the next chapter.

I am Pilgrim was first published in 2013 and although I was aware of it, I was never a big fan of books with main themes of espionage and counter terrorism, so I resisted for 10 years!

The the peer pressure began.

It was recommended to my husband who then went on to recommend it to practically every person who walked through the door.

It outsold all the best sellers and new releases,so I gave in and here we are.

This is a gripping thriller that

weaves a complex narative around a former intelligence operative tasked with stopping a deadly terrorist plot.

It is masterfully written as Hayes, who has written many screen plays including Mad Max, blends suspense, espionage and intricate plot twists.

Hayes crafts a compelling protagonist and keeps the readers on the edge with his meticulous storytelling.

The novel features a breakneck race against time and an implacable enemy.

An anonymous young woman murdered in a rundown hotel, all identifying characteristics dissolved by acid.

A father publicly beheaded in the blistering heat of a Saudi Arabian public square.

A notorious Syrian biotech

and swap an amazing array of instruments.”

Steve Mulry is the brother of Ted Mulry from hit ‘70s band the Ted Mulry Gang, and now fronts the reformed original band in his brother’s place.

“I was a big fan of Jon myself, and I remember how he was one of the first to come to the party and help out when Ted became ill,” Mulry said.

“I love every song we get to perform in this show, but I especially love that we are able to remember Jon and Ted.” The show features hits by Masters Apprentices, Billy Thorpe, the Bee Gees, LRB, Skyhooks, Aussie Crawl, INXS, Angels, JPY, Cold Chisel, Air Supply, Divinyls, Renee Geyer,

Russell Morris, Noiseworks, TMG, Stevie Wright, AC/DC, Peter Allen, Choirboys, Black Sorrows, Oils, John Farnham and, of course, Jon English.

“All our previous rock shows, including The Rock Show, Rock Revolution and Trilogy of Rock always sold out,” Cameron said.

“I was so happy when the The Rock Show Oz Edition did too, and that people seemed to enjoy it just as much.”

The Rock Show Oz Edition will be performed at the Wyong Art House on Saturday, February 10, at 8pm.

Bookings are available at www.thearthousewyong.com. au or by calling 4335 1485.

expert found eyeless in a Damascus junkyard.

Smoldering human remains on a remote mountainside in Afghanistan.

A flawless plot to commit an appalling crime against humanity.

One path links all the elements and only one man

can make the journey – Pilgrim.

Sometimes one gets really lucky.

You start to read a book thinking it might be an average read, then you complete five or six chapters and come to the realisation you’ve stumbled across one of the top five reads of your life.

Here are some of my favourite quotes that make this a truly memorable book.

“To find the light, we must first navigate through the darkness.”

“If you want to be free, all you have to do is let go.”

“The world doesn’t change in front of your eyes; it changes behind your back.”

I can’t really give you authors of the same ilk as this is truly unique.

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Be a part of this year’s Lakes Festival Central Coast Council is inviting businesses, community groups and event organisers to propose an event or activity to be a part of this year’s 10-day Lakes Festival program, to be held in November.

Celebrating the Coast’s diverse waterways, the festival will run from November 8-17.

Council’s Unit Manager Community and Culture Glenn Cannard said the Lakes Festival was one of the region’s biggest events which debuted every Spring and was made special by locals who hosted a variety of entertaining and innovative activities.

“The calendar of events linked to the Lakes Festival program last year attracted more than 10,000 festivalgoers,” he said.

“This year we are continuing to seek expressions of interests from new and returning businesses, companies, organisations and community groups who have a unique activity or event concept.

“No idea is too big or too small.

“Ideas can be anything centred on the theme, or location of our waterways – from festivals to sporting events, art events, outdoor installations, water education, workshops, and community events.

“So if you’re a local business with an idea, or you know of a business who would be perfect in this year’s program, make sure you reach out to our team and see if we can look at adding you into the festival.”

The successful applicants for 2024 will benefit by being

The festival is a highlight of the Coast’s events calendar

included in Council’s festival program and marketing campaign.

There is also the opportunity

to apply for funding as part of the expression of interest application under the Event Innovation Funding program.

The funding is aimed at assisting events that meet the criteria upon application.

Council Administrator Rik

Hart said festival was a fun occasion that played a significant role in teaching locals and tourists about the region’s waterways.

“I’m excited to see what this year’s program has in store as the Lakes Festival is celebrated across the Coast and is made possible by the ideas and contributions of so many amazing local businesses, groups, and organisations,” he said.

“Our waterways are part of the Central Coast’s identity and it’s important to continue to celebrate and educate the local community and visitors alike.”

Submissions will close at 2pm on Monday, March 11.

To find out more, view the full guidelines and get involved visit www.centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/council/eoi/expression -interest-lakes-festival-2024

Back to the good old days of jazz Remember the sounds of Benny Goodman, Teddy Wilson and Lionel Hampton back in the 1930s?

On Sunday, February 4, Central Coast Jazz Club will

help relive those heady days when Paul Furniss plays with a similar line-up in the Parkview Room at Central Coast Leagues Club.

Furniss on reeds will be supported by Kevin Hunt on

piano, Glenn Henrich on vibes and the great Lawrie Thompson on drums.

The bassist is Jaan Pallandi, a young man who is a member of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

Your genuine alternative to traditional aged care

The fun will continue from 2-5pm.

There will be plenty of room on the dance floor and the $10 entry includes a strip of raffle tickets.

Paul Furniss and his band

Live the life you choose at Glengara Care Glengara Care is nothing like traditional aged care, we allow our residents to remain in control of their care journey with our unique nurseled model of care.

We see wonderful stories of our residents living vibrant, purposeful lives every day at Glengara Care.

Discover the difference at Glengara Care for yourself.

But don’t take our word for it, see it for yourself! Scan here to watch Pat’s story, one of our happy Glengara Care residents.

Contact our friendly team on 1800 955 070 to book an appointment or tour today.

220 Hansens Road, Tumbi Umbi *You will have to pay a departure fee when you leave this village.

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CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Spicy honey liquor 4. Bleaker 8. Wading bird 11. America, ... Sam 13. Clay-based rock 15. Marine growth 17. Morning vapour 18. Betrays secret 20. Age 21. Unnecessary 24. Urge to action 27. Fah, ..., lah, te, doh 28. Sugar-coated 30. Pre-decimal coin 31. Bumps into 33. Skimmed 34. Rule (country) 35. Measure of length 36. Copenhagen native 39. Voguish fads 42. Pivot 44. Poke 45. Fast jet effect, ... boom 46. Apiece 48. Shoplift 49. Steers off course 50. Looked up & down 52. Coupled 54. Legumes 55. Long tales 56. Forcible restraint 57. Comfort 60. Frosted (cake)

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62. Rue 65. Draining tube 67. Chilli con ...

69. Crow relative 70. Avid 72. Soaked 73. Support garment 75. Publicist, press ...

77. Negative adverb 79. Greatly love 81. Morse Code distress signal (1,1,1) 82. Stringent 84. Fete, ... Gras 85. Cowboy’s noosed snare 86. Low cloud 87. Accomplishments 88. Slithered DOWN 1. Self-defence aerosol 2. Of the ear 3. Forensic ID check, ... test (1,1,1) 4. Castrate (horse) 5. Truly!

6. Cutting (grass) 7. Invitation reply (1,1,1,1) 8. Unwell 9. Monster 10. Silk band 12. Brooding hen sound 14. Cleverer 16. Heart or lung 19. Ship’s officer

MISSING LINK MISSING LINK

22. Approached 23. Overturns 25. Short-sighted 26. Materialise 29. Cigar receptacle 32. Demise 35. Tedious 37. Hurts 38. Lived 40. Movie parts 41. Fizzy drinks 42. Employed 43. Overhanging roof edges 44. Removes skin from 47. Stopping 51. Knife 52. Builders 53. All through 54. Peacock & ...

58. Formed a curve 59. Blunder 61. European money 63. Participate in (competition) 64. Cord fringe 65. Flavour with herbs 66. Promises 68. Tiny particles 71. Register 72. Quite hot 74. Military subdivision 76. Snake-like fish 78. Dull crash 80. Plague rodent 83. Donkey

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

P

V I S I S A S M A E G S A S X HU U I MP C T S I UD E B GUMT R E E O E S L R E U I Y B L I N UN P T

See page 2 for last edition’s solutions or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/puzzle-solutions

Bookings close 29 February.

© Lovatts Puzzles

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History of Pioneer Park in print It has taken Central Coast Family History Group (CCFHS) almost 50 years (1977-2024) to recognise and document all the people named on the tall memorial plaque at Point Frederick, but the job is finally done.

The plaque was erected after Council, Rotary and Apex created the current Pioneer Park in 1977.

“Point Frederick Pioneer Park stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these pioneers who laid the foundations of this city and who have now found their eternal rest amidst the peaceful surrounds and beauty of

Brisbane Water,” a spokesperson said.

The memorial plaque he society will launch its 514page book Point Frederick Pioneer Park – The Lives of the Pioneers at its meeting on Saturday, February 3.

It details those people interred in the original cemetery from the 1840s.

CCFHS editor Margaret Ertner will be the speaker and copies of the book will be available.

The meeting will be held at 1pm in the Lions Hall, East Gosford; all welcome.

The book is also available from Central Coast Family History Society in Russell Drysdale St, East Gosford.

Lorraine Greve and Laraine Goodworth taking a quick look before Saturday’s book launch; The memorial plaque

Enjoy A Kink in the Tale

Monica Rosenfeld; Peter Polites

This Thursday, February 1, sees the return of the monthly A Kink in The Tale sessions at the Fun Haus Factory in Gosford.

The live and local storytelling event for adults embraces diverse, sex-positive stories told live on stage and is open to all who appreciate a good bedtime story with a twist.

Get ready to laugh, gasp, blush and cry all at the same time.

This month a stellar line-up will feature Peter Polites, Monica Rosenfeld, Nicholas Brown, and host Donné Restom.

If you were at Words on the Waves’ last Late Night Lit event, you would have seen

Western Sydney novelist Peter Polites.

He has written two novels, Down the Hume and The Pillars, which won the 2020 NSW Premier’s Multicultural Literary Award.

His third novel, God Forgets About the Poor, is out now through Ultimo Press.

Monica Rosenfeld has been working in the media industry for more than two decades, helping people craft and share their story with millions through mass media exposure.

She is the co-founder of the Global Stories that Stir Movement, with a mission to facilitate human connection and healing through storytelling.

Nicholas Brown is an Australian playwright, screenwriter and actor who has worked in Bollywood and beyond and Donné Restom was sex advice columnist for Ralf magazine’s horny teens in her 20s, sex writer for the confused and exhausted mums of Kidspot in her 30s and host of Words on the Waves’ Late Night Lit. Enjoy dinner at the Empanada Bar for the flavours of Columbian street food and happy hour between 6pm and 7pm with $10 cocktails prior to the event.

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PAGE 21

Water sniffer dogs help find leaks

Winnie the astute Cocker Spaniel helping to detect leaks in the water and sewer network

Central Coast Council’s Water and Sewer division has embarked on an innovative journey with a trio of furry helpers to address the challenge of water and sewer leaks.

Enter Joey and Hydro, the spirited Springer Spaniels, and Winnie, the astute Cocker Spaniel, who have become the stars of a unique leak detection initiative.

In collaboration with the Sydney Water Lead Detection

Dog Team, these canine detectives embarked on an ambitious task, covering 25km of water mains and 10km of sewer rising mains across the Central Coast.

Their mission was clear: to use their exceptional olfactory abilities to sniff out leaks that elude human detection.

Over a span of five days, amidst varying weather conditions, Joey, Hydro, and Winnie showcased their remarkable talent.

Their keen noses led them to the exact spots of leaks by tracing the scent to its strongest point, allowing the Council to pinpoint and plan repairs with unprecedented precision.

The spectacle of these dogs at work left a lasting impression on Jamie Loader, the Council’s Director for Water and Sewer.

He praised their extraordinary capabilities, emphasising the economic and environmental advantages of integrating these canine experts into the

Council’s leak detection efforts.

The dogs’ ability to discover leaks early can prevent larger, more disruptive breaks, offering a proactive solution to maintaining the integrity of the water and sewer network.

Nicole Harvey, a trainer with Sydney Water Dog Detection, highlighted the dogs’ adaptability and precision, noting their success in locating over 354 leaks in the Sydney network, some buried up to two metres underground.

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The program, mentored by renowned canine detection specialist Steve Austin, not only showcases the potential of leak detection dogs but also underscores their contribution to significant cost savings and efficiency improvements in water management.

Central Coast Council CEO David Farmer expressed excitement about this novel approach, acknowledging the invaluable insights gained from observing Joey, Hydro, and

Winnie in action.

“Learning innovative, proven strategies from other water authorities demonstrates Council’s proactivity in seeking new ways to provide the Central Coast with a cost-efficient and sustainable water future,” he said.

Council anticipates ongoing collaboration with these canine helpers, integrating their unique skills into a comprehensive leak detection program.

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Controversial Terrigal development site up for sale A partially built block of units at 5-7 Church St, Terrigal, goes up for auction on February 10.

The site is being advertised as “a unique opportunity to acquire this partially completed blue chip development situated in the Terrigal CBD 50m to the beach”.

The advertisement goes on to say there are no inspections scheduled and to contact the agent to see the place which is listed as having 30 car spaces and 20 units.

The site has a long history.

It originally received development approval to go to five storeys when the guidelines for the area allowed only four storeys.

Then, once construction had started, the developers tried to get approval for a sixth storey.

The proposal eventually went to the Land and Environment Court which ruled against adding a sixth storey in July last year.

Applicant Angolet Pty Ltd was seeking consent for addition of a sixth storey, which would contain a single penthouse apartment, and enlargement to

The Church St site; An artist’s impression of the proposed development submitted in 2021

the approved terraces on level five.

In refusing the application, Land and Environment Court Commissioner Dickson said Terrigal Beach and the foreshore were “of high scenic value”.

“As discussed later in this judgement, views to the beach and foreshore are highly valued by residents and the potential

impact of the modification application on those views is a key issue in the proceedings,” she said.

She found the loss of views from a series of units at 15 Kurrawyba Ave, 10 Church St and 9-11 Cadell St were considered and the development modification that was proposed would have the effect of changing the nature of

the views by varying degrees for each of the apartments at the nearby addresses.

Also, the development was non-compliant with a number of controls both in LEP (Local Environment Plan) 2014 and DCP (Development Control Plan) 2013 which the Commissioner said tended away from a conclusion of reasonableness of the adverse

view impacts.

And the Commissioner said that despite the modification entirely breaching the maximum building height standard, there was no evidence in the architectural design to ameliorate this impact, for example, by facilitating a view corridor, or a section through which the total view of the sand to the horizon

would be retained by residents to the west and or south-west of the site.

Instead, the modification application sought to further reduce the approved side setbacks.

Construction stopped while the court case was held and never re-started.

Merilyn Vale

Water and sewer upgrade powers ahead Essential water and sewer infrastructure works continue in the Gosford CBD as Central Coast Council sets about catering to the growing needs of the city into the future.

Council’s Water and Sewer department is working with contractors to complete an extensive works program, ensuring reliable water and sewer infrastructure now and in the future.

Works will be commencing this week to install a new sewer rising main within the Gosford, East Gosford and Point Frederick areas and a new sewer pump station along the waterfront on Dane Dr. Director for Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said construction had already commenced, with

February and March.

“Later in the project works will be undertaken along Henry Parry Dr, Gosford, and Frederick St, Point Fredrick, with traffic management in place.

“Contractors will be working across a number of work sites at any given time during the course of this project.

“I encourage 138 Robina Town Centre Drive Robina Qld 4226 our community to allow extra travel time when PO Box 3275 Robina Town Centre Qld 4230 travelling through Gosford Tel: 1300 36 0867 Fax: 1300 81 8962 during this stage of the project email: artwork@localdirectories.com.auand thank them for their patience while we get these www.localdirectories.com.au essential works finished.”

Most activity will be carried out between 7am and 6pm The works will cater for projected growth in Gosford Monday to Friday with “Shortland Ave, Gosford, will “In addition, Gertrude occasional Saturday work the sewer rising main due for be between 8am and 1pm. completion mid-2024 and the be closed to traffic, with an Ave, Gosford, will sewer pump station to be expected reopening in late reduced to one lane and have The community will be complete early in 2025.

April,” he said. limited street parking during notified if weekend work is

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Council Administrator Rik Hart said the works were essential to ensure Gosford kept pace with expected growth.

“The project will provide a reliable sewer service to the Gosford CBD to meet the demands of new developments and deliver the vision of Gosford as the capital of the Central Coast,” he said.

The projects have been made possible thanks to $42.5M in funding through the NSW Government’s Housing Acceleration Fund and a further $4.6M through the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund.

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Feedback from “unserviced” properties wanted Central Coast Council Water and Sewer is seeking feedback regarding potential water and/or sewer connections from people who occupy, own, or operate a business from an “unserviced property”.

The second phase of consultation follows an earlier consultation phase which was open to customers who are connected to Council’s water and/or sewerage services on the Central Coast.

Director for Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said the community consultation ensured that Council developed knowledge and customer

interest for including connection of “unserviced properties” into future plans.

“There are approximately 7,500 unserviced properties that are not connected to the Council water and sewer network,” Loader said.

“Typically, owners of these properties store their own drinking water and collect, treat and dispose of their own sewage.

“This survey builds upon earlier engagement with the community.

“It ensures that we understand the interest of those who are directly impacted by not having a connection to the service

Council wants to hear from owners of “unserviced properties”

network.

“Feedback will inform development of our Water and Sewer Masterplan and future

investment in the water and sewer network.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart welcomed the second

phase of the consultation as another step forward in ensuring that customer expectations were met today

and into the future.

“This consultation process continues to place water and sewer customers at the centre of future works as we manage our region’s challenges and plan for a sustainable future,” he said.

The phase two survey is open from January 24 until February 14.

Feedback will help Council inform its planning and determine how best to manage these properties.

To have your say visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/ UnservicedProperties

Customers not too happy with water services Customers are not very satisfied with the services provided by Central Coast Council Water, a recent survey released by IPART reveals.

The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal conducts a customer satisfaction survey four times each year, with the latest coming out last November.

“We continue to survey Central Coast Council Water’s customers to understand their perspectives on the utility because its past performance has not been as stable as that of Sydney Water and Hunter Water,” the report says.

Customers were asked four questions: How would you rate the service on delivering value

for money? How would you rate your trust for the provider? How would you rate your provider’s reputation in the community? and overall satisfaction?

Responses for all four questions gave ratings of less than six out of a possible 10 points.

For overall satisfaction, Central Coast customers gave the water authority a score of 5.7; they gave 5.5 for value for money; 5.7 for trust; and for reputation customers scored it 5.3.

But the results indicate that Central Coast Council Water’s value for money, trust and reputation have gradually been increasing over the past year.

Customers’ overall satisfaction with Central Coast

Convenience & Coastal Allure

Council Water dipped between June and May 2023 but is beginning to return to April levels.

The quarterly review is in keeping with recommendations made by IPART Chair Carmel Donnelly when she approved a water rate rise for the Central Coast to be phased in over four years from 2022.

“Our role here is to protect customers from excessive prices but at the same time to recognise people do need good drinking water and good waste-water management,” Donnelly said at the time.

“The decision was made considering the minimum necessary for a water authority to meet standards.”

Donnelly said IPART had

found there was a genuine need for the Council to invest in its water and waste-water systems to improve performance, with the decision heavily influenced by customer feedback on problems with water quality and reliability.

“The tribunal decided it is crucial that CCC Water is more accountable and transparent and be held to account that it spends the increases on improving performance,” she said.

Donnelly said the draft decision was accompanied by several papers suggesting ways of monitoring Council’s performance in the area of water management.

The next quarterly review is expected to be released in March.

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STATION MANAGER Community Radio Station 93.3FM at North Gosford, on the Central Coast of NSW, is seeking the services of a Station Manager, to replace the retiring Station Manager.

93.3FM has been broadcasting easy listening music to the mature listener for over thirty years.

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Moderate decrease in region-wide land values Overall, the Central Coast local government area experienced a moderate decrease in land values between July 2022 and July 2023.

The NSW Valuer’s latest report, recently released, compares values as at July 2023 with values one year prior.

The downward trend was experienced by the residential market, which showed a moderate decrease, and the rural market which showed a slight decrease.

The residential market saw a 6.6 per cent decrease, from $79.22B to $74B. The rural market saw a 4.1 per cent decrease, from$2.59B to $2.49B. Commercial land values showed a slight increase overall, with a 3.2 per cent upward swing, from $2.75B to $2.85B. The industrial market continued a longer-term trend of increasing land values, showing a 7.5 per cent increase for 2022-2023, from $2.37B to $3.55B. Demand from purchasers migrating from Sydney to regional locations such as the Central Coast has softened, an

Land values at Umina Beach held steady

attributing factor being the value for money relativity between the Sydney and the Central Coast markets.

The downward trend in land values was driven by a reduction in demand, resulting in decreased sales transactions, coinciding with an increase in supply levels returning to longterm averages.

Areas where values remained steady included the rural/ residential lifestyle properties around Yarramalong, Central Mangrove and Mangrove Mountain.

These smaller rural properties have remained popular given

their relative affordability and added amenity of larger than residential allotments within the Central Coast.

Demand for these properties has come from both local residents upgrading and some migration from Sydney.

A wide range of other locations for standard residential allotments also held steady as a trend.

These included Gwandalan and Crangan Bay, Wadalba and parts of Wyong, Kanwal and Wyongah, Mardi, Ourimbah, Forresters Beach, Empire Bay, St Huberts Island, Umina Beach, the western portion of

North Avoca, larger residential lots within Narara, Lake Haven, Charmhaven, Warnervale, Watanobbi, waterfront properties within Booker Bay, Ettalong Beach and Umina.

Areas around the Wamberal Lagoon within Wamberal and Terrigal also remained steady.

Areas which experienced a slight increase included Lisarow, North Gosford, Wyoming, Gosford, West Gosford, waterfront properties adjoining the southern foreshore of Tuggerah Lake, Phegans Bay, Horsfield Bay, Woy Woy Bay, Blackwall, Booker Bay, Green Point,

Saratoga and Yattalunga, Avoca Beach lagoon area and The Entrance North.

The strongest performing suburbs showing a strong increase included Macmasters Beach, parts of Forresters Beach, Erina and Kincumber.

These increases are due to the local amenity of the beach side suburbs of Macmasters Beach and Forresters Beach and the relative affordability and convenience of the residential estates within Erina and Kincumber.

Mixed use properties in Gosford City Centre showed steady to slight increase in land values.

The location has a number of large scale projects currently under construction with a considerable pipeline of residential apartments to be completed over the next few years.

The majority of these developments are multi-storey and high rise developments.

Residential development land for subdivision generally remained steady or showed a moderate increase depending upon the location and zone.

BUSINESS BRIEF

Getting rid of plastics Members of the public are being invited to have their say on which plastic items the NSW Government should target to help minimise harm to the environment and human health.

The discussion paper Plastics: Next Steps, which is open until February 4, identifies and addresses items and materials that are frequently littered or release microplastics into the environment, contain harmful chemical additive, or are regulated or proposed to be in other states and territories.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said there were numerous items containing plastic that were problematic in the community.

“The Next Steps paper proposes to phase out the supply of some items and use suitable alternatives,” she said.

“The discussion paper, Plastics: Next Steps is available at yoursay.epa.nsw.gov.au For more details on on this story, visit our website.

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Encouraging more visitors to the Coast The Central Coast is set for increased visitation and a further boost to the local economy with new digital content to attract visitation to lesser-known areas of the region.

The grant-funded project, which began in 2021 led by Council’s Marketing and Tourism Section (Destination Central Coast), has enabled the development of multiple online content hubs on LoveCentralCoast.com.

These showcase and promote a diverse range of local tourism products, services and experiences to potential visitors – and aim to support the economic and social recovery of regional communities impacted by the bushfires of 2019-2020.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said many of the region’s unique offerings and experiences were on display to attract people from Sydney, other parts of NSW and beyond.

“The newly-launched content hubs on LoveCentralCoast.com offer locals and guests to the region the opportunity to explore areas of the Central Coast they may not be aware of,” she said.

The new hubs highlight the region’s many attractions

“Some of these include hidden gems in the hinterland, the wonders of our waterway network, the Coast’s fascinating UNESCO World Heritage listed walk, plus immersive art and cultural workshops, activities and events brimming across the region.

“The destination website’s new online hubs focus on key tourism themes affected by the bushfires and raises the profile of niche tourism products and experiences.

“This extends across areas

such as ecotourism and nature tourism, agritourism, Aboriginal tourism, self-guided trails, destination weddings, sports events and school excursions, providing inspirational content to explore where to stay, eat and drink and things to do on the Central Coast.

“Council collaborated with many local tourism operators, creatives and regional stakeholders including Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council, National Parks and Wildlife Services, Destination Sydney Surrounds

Darren celebrates 40 years at Doyalson Wyee RSL Doyalson Wyee RSL CEO Darren Thornton is celebrating his 40th year of service at the club, after beginning his career at the age of 16 as a greenkeeper.

Thornton moved his way up the ladder to become CEO in 2007, a position he still holds.

“It doesn’t seem like 40 years,” Thornton said of the milestone.

“It has certainly had its ups and downs, but it’s been a great journey seeing the club go from strength to strength.”

Thornton’s work ethic and loyalty to the club saw him promoted several times into various roles before his appointment as CEO. “The professionalism of the Board and the whole club has come a long way,” he said.

“It’s changed from back in the old days where anything would go.

“Now we are run like a real business.”

Thornton said his proudest moment was getting the club rezoned to enable development on the land next door, an exercise which was 20 years in the making.

Doyalson Wyee RSL CEO Darren Thornton

He said the team behind him is what has made his career so strong.

“I couldn’t have been here this long without great people around me,” he said.

“The current Board that I have has remained the same for 10 years and they are brilliant.”

Thornton’s career has seen him work in all aspects of the club.

After starting work in 1984 as a first year apprentice greenkeeper, he started casual bar work at nights and weekends in 1986, before being appointed assistant greenkeeper in January 1988.

In October 1988 he was appointed to the bar full time and in May 1989 he became head cellarman.

In 1991 he was appointed purchasing officer/supervisor and in 1993 gaming manager.

He became assistant CEO in 1996 and progressed to the top job in May 2007.

Thornton has also volunteered with and supported wonderful community organisations such as the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Camp Breakaway, Operation Christmas Hamper, Central Coast Kids in Need and We Care Connect.

North and Destination NSW to develop the project, which also provided the opportunity to support local travel writers, photographers, videographers, talent agencies and web developers, mapping and specialist trail consultants.

“The 14 new visitor information hubs on LoveCentralCoast.com are being actively promoted across multiple channels to raise the profile of a range of niche tourism products and experiences, which will directly impact the Central Coast visitor

economy by driving off-peak visitation, in diverse locations across the region and promoting an increased length of stay.”

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said helping to enhance Central Coast Council’s online tourism promotion was an example of the NSW Government’s commitment to building stronger more resilient regional economies.

“The NSW Government is backing community projects

that will boost preparedness for future disasters, encourage economic recovery, aid tourism and bring people together,” she said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the project was further developing the region’s tourism sector and was enabling an increase in yield from the Central Coast’s visitor economy for the benefit of local communities.

“The destination’s new digital hubs further confirm the Central Coast as a key region of growth in NSW and will continue to attract more sustainable visitation,” he said.

“This in turn increases local spending and jobs across the entire region, which generates opportunities, income and financial security for many in our community.”

The Destination Central Coast Tourism Content and Digital Product Development project has been funded under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, co-funded by the Australian and NSW governments.

Visit the Central Coast’s dedicated destination website LoveCentralCoast.com to explore the new content hubs

PAGE 26

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McDonald’s not welcome in Toukley McDonald’s wants to setup shop in Toukley, opposite the primary school, but the locals are making it quite clear that the fast-food chain is not welcome.

The community Facebook page has erupted with a thousand or more posts since the development application went public and the Central Coast Council website is being bombarded with submissions of objection.

McDonald’s is seeking approval to build a two-storey restaurant with playground on a 2,073sqm block on the corner of Main Rd and Evans Rd, currently occupied by Steve Kennedy Smash Repairs.

The plans include a dual-lane drive-through with capacity for 18 queuing vehicles on-site and 17 car-parking spaces with access to the business from Evans Rd. It will be a 24/7 seven days a week operation creating about 120 local jobs.

Some of the locals say they are totally opposed to having McDonald’s in town, while some say it is just the wrong location; but there are a few who want to see “progress”.

“Toukley needs more big

Plans for a McDonald’s at East Toukley have met with opposition

outlets for the town to grow,” one resident said.

Common themes of concern include traffic congestion turning quiet residential streets into busy detours, road safety and proximity to schools, environmental impact, community character, local economy and social harmony.

Tess Cowley, once a road safety officer at a Sydney school where she was a teacher, says the proposal represents an “accident waiting to happen”.

“This is one of the busiest and most dangerous intersections in the area,” she said.

“If you’ve ever been to Toukley at around three o’clock in the afternoon, it’s absolute gridlock, so adding a McDonald’s in just seems like the craziest idea for that location.

“From a town planning perspective, wouldn’t that just be an automatic no to put a McDonald’s in opposite a school, and there’s another primary school (St Mary’s) about 500m up the road.

“You’ve not only got the cars and traffic, but there’s pedestrians, kids on bikes, mums with prams, people already going in and out of Aldi next door, all making it a really

busy corner.”

The DA traffic study says access to McDonald’s would be via Evans Rd – including removal of No Stopping restrictions – but because of the existing left-turn ban for large vehicles (such as delivery trucks) from Main Rd into Evans Rd, those service vehicles would have to access the site through Clark Rd and Hammond Rd. “We have so many issues already on Hammond Rd with near misses, trucks flying up and down, and they’ll be using surrounding residential streets to avoid the Main Rd/Evans Rd corner,” Cowley said.

Local businessman Michael Cross said local cafes and restaurants, which are the backbone of Toukley’s emerging food scene, could face unfair competition from McDonald’s, leading to a decline in these local establishments and negatively affecting the community’s economic diversity.

“Our community is passionately working towards transforming Toukley into a bohemian-style culinary and café hub,” he said.

“This grassroots effort aims to create a unique locallydriven food culture.

“Introducing a fast-food giant directly opposes and potentially undermines these communityled initiatives.”

In a submission to Council, Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong, David Harris, said “the safety of our children should be a top priority” and “the introduction of a major fast-food chain could have adverse effects on the local community”.

“Supporting local businesses over large chains can have numerous benefits for our community,” his submission said.

“It helps maintain the unique

character of our neighbourhoods, promotes local entrepreneurship and ensures that profits stay within the community.”

Harris proposed an alternative location for McDonald’s in the main Toukley shopping area.

“Re-purposing one of the more vacant shopping malls in that area could not only be a more suitable location but also a means of revitalising those spaces,” he said.

His submission to Council said that this aligned with the idea of supporting local businesses while simultaneously addressing the need for economic development.

Harris also requested of Council that more efforts be directed towards revitalising the existing shops in the East Toukley area where McDonald’s is proposed.

“Strengthening the local economy through support for these businesses might prove to be a more sustainable and community-friendly approach,” Harris said in his submission.

Submissions for DA 2421/2023 close on February 9.

Sue Murray

Developers go to court as DA times drag A developer has used the Land and Environment Court to gain four development approvals after using the “deemed refusal” rule from Central Coast Council.

Three of the developments approved are on the Woy Woy peninsula and the fourth one is at Blue Bay. A deemed refusal means the Council has not made a decision on a development application (DA) within 60 days of the applicant lodging it.

An applicant can appeal the deemed refusal in the NSW Land and Environment Court within six months of the deemed refusal date.

But the window to take it to court closes after that date and so developers must act within the six months to use “deemed refusal”.

Council-underadministration is not meeting its targets in dealing with development applications.

The targets in this year’s operational plan call for all development application categories to be determined in less than 40 calendar days using median figures.

In March 2023, Council noted a 52 per cent increase in

community complaints compared to the same period a year earlier.

The main contributor was the Environment and Planning Department which deals with DAs. The planning department had a 155 per cent increase in community complaints.

A third of those were about development application assessments, in particular general delays and lack of communication.

In these four cases with the one applicant, the Land and Environment Court ruled on all four addresses separately but all went through the same process.

The parties underwent conciliation conferences late last year where amendments to designs were agreed upon between the applicant and Council.

Then four different commissioners dealt with the matters in November and December saying that the Court accepted the agreements.

“Based on the amended plans and supporting documents to the DA, the parties explained to the Court that there are no jurisdictional impediments to the making of

An artist’s impression of the development at 33 Burrawang St, Ettalong Beach

the agreement or for the Court in making the orders, as sought,” one judgement states.

All four cases had the same outcome.

The applicant, Andrey Vinogradov, was ordered to pay costs of $12,000 to the respondent, Central Coast Council, for costs on each of the cases.

The townhouses at 102 Bay Rd, Blue Bay The four outcomes saw: approval for the demolition of existing structures and the construction of three twostorey units at 33 Burrawang St, Ettalong Beach; and the same for 21 Burrawang St,

Ettalong Beach; approval for demolition of the existing structures and construction of a multi dwelling housing development, consisting of three dwellings, landscaping and associated works at 102 Bay Rd, Blue Bay; and approval for the demolition of existing structures and the construction of three two-storey units, including associated landscaping, at 34 Picnic Pde, Ettalong Beach.

Other developers are taking a similar route.

One applicant received permission for a dual occupancy at 100 Berkeley Rd, Fountaindale, after going to the Court with a deemed refusal.

Another got development approval for a two-storey 130-place childcare centre at 2 Wyreema Rd, Warnervale, after going to court with a deemed refusal.

Between April 20 and December 29, 2023, there were at least 17 appeals determined in the Land and Environment Court, of which 13 resulted in “agreement between parties”.

Typically, amended plans would have likely been submitted during proceedings.

For developers, the process means the Court sets the timetable that both parties follow.

On Monday, January 29, Council was scheduled for 20 time slots in the next three weeks in Land and Environment Court cases involving a number of different developers.

Developers have been public in their frustrations trying to get DAs approved.

One architect wrote to the Local Planning Panel (LPP) in April 2023 complaining about a development application that had been lodged more than two years and three months earlier. “….during that period numerous Council and consultant planners, including

the Department of Planning, started assessments, most of the time, it appeared, starting from scratch,” the letter to the LPP stated.

“A variety of feedback was provided by the varying assessing officers throughout the process.

“There were also extensive delays with the application because of the inability for the applicant to meet with Council staff, face to face, and the staff shortages within the Council framework.

“During the assessment process, we have made a genuine effort to address and resolve all issues raised by Council.”

Coast Community News asked Council what plans it had to stop applications becoming “deemed refusals”.

“Applicants can assist in the timely assessment of development applications by lodging high-quality development applications that contain all the required information, comply with the planning framework, and do not require redesign/ amendment to ensure the application is capable of being supported,” Council said.

Merilyn Vale

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

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Shirley Shuttle funding under a cloud The Shirley Shuttle Cancer Patient Transport Service could face withdrawing one of its four vehicles from service or increasing client costs with vital funding possibly to be withdrawn.

Financial support of up to $25,000 a year from Central Coast Local Health District will run out in 2025.

CCLHD has covered the cost of fuel cards for each of the service’s vehicles since 2008, when The Shirley Shuttle was founded by Barb Galvin in memory of her mother Shirley Galvin, who died of cancer in 2006.

Galvin kicked off the service with the donation of $50,000 for its first vehicle, a Toyota Minibus.

Since then the service has been expanded to include four

sedan vehicles, administered

by Community Transport Central Coast in conjunction with Coast Connects Operations.

They provide very low-cost access for transportchallenged Central Coast residents to attend oncology treatment centres within the Central Coast region at $10 per trip.

There is no means test, and if a client claims lack of finances there is no cost.

Vehicle replacement costs are met every two years or so via the generosity of the Central Coast community, and running costs are hopefully covered each year by client contributions.

The Shirley Shuttle currently delivers 380-400 trips per month thanks to 35 volunteer drivers, but the demand exceeds 1,250 trip requests each month.

Barb Galvin with a volunteer Shirley Shuttle driver

“Shirley Shuttle, in my opinion and according to my research, is one of a kind in Australia providing affordable transport to and from potentially life-

saving oncology treatments,” Galvin said.

“I believe it would be a disgrace for our Local Health District to divorce itself from

funding fuel cards.”

But a Central Coast Local Health District spokesperson said current funding would continue to provide fuel cards

for the next 18 months.

“Central Coast Local Health District values the Shirley Shuttle and is keen to continue support for the service that provides low-cost community transport to local cancer patients who have difficulty getting to treatments,” the spokesperson said.

“The District is already investigating the future funding options to continue the service once the existing funding ends in mid-2025.”

The matter will be on the agenda at a public forum to be held from 10-11.30am on Sunday, February 4, in the showroom at Mingara Recreation Club.

The forum will also ask for answers from local MPs on what is happening regarding a palliative care unit for Wyong Hospital.

Have a heart and wear red for research Jen O’Neill had no history of heart problems, nor did anyone in her family, yet by the time she was 42, she had suffered three SCAD heart attacks.

SCAD heart attacks – spontaneous coronary artery dissection – is an emergency condition that occurs when a tear forms in a wall of a heart artery and most commonly affects women in their 40s and 50s, though it can occur at any age and can occur in men.

Like most people who have suffered a SCAD heart attack, O’Neill, of Narara, did not have any risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes.

“That’s what is so concerning,” she said.

“It’s not like a traditional heart attack,there is no predisposition, it has nothing to do with diet and they don’t know what causes it which is why raising money for research is so

important.”

February marks REDFEB, Heart Awareness Month where all Australians are invited to wear red and donate to fund vital research to combat heart disease.

O’Neill was 36 when she suffered her first attack, breastfeeding a new baby with a three-year-old toddler in tow.

The second attack occurred while she was at work in 2020 and two years later, she suffered her third attack.

“Looking back there was probably a bit of stress around, like most women you put yourself last,” she said.

Each attack was a different tear in a different part of her heart.

And each time she was reluctant to call an ambulance.

“Lucky for me my husband is a cop and he has seen people have heart attacks and insisted on calling an ambulance,” she said.

Jen O’Neill with her sons Charlie and Lachlan

“I said I was fine, and I would just go to bed, but if I had, my cardiologist said I might not have woken up.

“During REDFEB people are asked to wear red to help raise money for research and awareness and to dispel the notion that heart attacks only happen to middle-aged men.

“If you’re having symptoms and signs, don’t dismiss them.

“There is no gold-star way of treating someone who has had a SCAD attack which is why research is so important.”

This year Heart Research Australia is aiming to empower Australians to take charge of their cardiovascular wellbeing

without straining their finances.

Regardless of income, prioritising heart health is not just a health imperative but also a wise financial investment.

Heart disease doesn’t discriminate based on income – whether you’re a millionaire or living on a tight budget, taking care of your heart is paramount.

“Heart disease affects two in three Australians and still remains our leading cause of death,” Heart Research Australia CEO Nicci Dent said.

“Prioritising heart health is an investment in your future, both health-wise and financially.

“The financial implications of heart disease are not just limited to medical costs.

“Recovery from heart attacks often leads to lost wages, reduced work capacity, and hindered career advancement, due to the physical and mental effects of the condition.

“Cardiovascular disease

affects more than four million Australians and is responsible for one in four deaths.

“Research is undeniably a life-saving endeavour.

“That’s why Heart Research Australia tirelessly supports world-class and emerging researchers in their pursuit of groundbreaking studies for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart disease.”

Heart Research Australia invites all Australians to explore their free online Heart Hub, where you can access a wealth of expert advice on cultivating heart-healthy habits.

The Heart Hub, provides information on mitigating risk factors, optimising your diet, embracing effective exercise routines, and mastering stress reduction techniques.

For more information on REDFEB and to donate, visit: www.heartresearch.com.au Denice Barnes

PAGE 28

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Donations needed for back-to-school packs

The packs will include a new backpack, lunchbox, drink bottle and school supplies

Not-for-profit organisation We Care Connect is making up back-to-school packs for students who need them the most going into the 2024 school year and is looking for donations.

The organisation has received more than 400 requests for the packs from sole-parent families and families which have experienced family violence, have long-term illness or disability or are facing

homelessness.

The back-to-school packs will include a new backpack, lunchbox, drink bottle and school supplies.

Member for Wyong David Harris said it was important for students to have the necessary supplies throughout their school years.

“We Care Connect volunteers are doing a great job in supporting those families in

need across the Central Coast,” he said.

New school items can be donated at any of We Care Connect’s drop off locations – Avoca Beach Bowling Club, Wyong Rugby Leagues Club, Bateau Bay Bowling Club, Budgewoi Soccer Club, Canton Beach Sports Club, Wyong Bowling Club and Wallarah Bay Recreation Club.

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

Free broadband connection for eligible families With the return of the 2024 school year Central Coast families are being encouraged to check if they are eligible for free home broadband through the Federal Labor Government’s School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI).

To ensure more Australian school students can enjoy the transformational benefit of broadband, the Government is investing $8.8M to connect up to 30,000 eligible families with school-aged children to the NBN. The affordability initiative has been extended through to

December 31, 2025, meaning even more families can benefit from a free home broadband connection for longer.

At present more 6,000 households have already been connected to free internet through the SSBI, and a further 18,000 vouchers have been issued to eligible families to get connected.

To be eligible, a family must have a child living at home and enrolled in an Australian school; have no active home broadband service over the NBN network; and live in premises that can access a standard NBN service.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with students at Pretty Beach Public School

Government understood that in order for students to experience the full benefits of 21st century learning, they needed

accessible and reliable internet access.

“The School Student Broadband Initiative ensures

students can access the internet if they cannot afford to,” he said.

“This initiative is about closing the digital divide and providing support to students to excel.”

Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said it was essential for students to have access to reliable, fast home broadband to fully engage in online learning and connect with teachers and peers.

“Not only does this initiative support educational outcomes, it benefits entire households who can access essential digital services like telehealth and banking from home,” she

said.

Families interested in the SSBI can contact the National Referral Centre on 1800 954 610 (Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm AEDT) to have their eligibility assessed.

The Government is considering options to further support participating families at the end of 2025, including asking the NBN Low-Income and Digital Inclusion Forum to examine discounted products.

For more information on the SSBI, visit: www.infrastructure. gov.au/SSBI

70 new medical interns for Coast hospitals The Central Coast will soon see a boost to its healthcare workforce, with 70 medical graduate interns to start work at public hospitals in the region this month.

The region’s four Labor State MPs welcomed the new graduates this week.

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to become independent practitioners.

The interns will work with and learn from NSW Health’s experienced and highly skilled medical staff.

The new doctors starting their

internship will be entering a training program with networked hospitals throughout the state, providing formal and on-the-job training.

They receive two-year contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience.

They also rotate across different specialties during the intern year, including surgery, medicine and emergency medicine.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the 70 new junior doctors would play an important role across the Central Coast in keeping communities safe.

The Coast’s four Labor State MPs: Liesl Tesch (Gosford), David Harris (Wyong); Yasmin Catley (Swansea) and David Mehan (The Entrance)

“It has been tough for our health workers who have been left under-resourced and the NSW Government plans to rebuild the health workforce,” he said.

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said the doctors would learn from the best and lift the standard of care for locals.

“It’s a huge step towards rebuilding our healthcare

workforce,” she said.

Member for the Entrance David Mehan said the past couple of years had been a challenge for health workers.

“We are investing and boosting our health workforce to improve health outcomes, it’s as simple as that,” he said.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said health workers had been left under-resourced and underpaid for 12 years.

“The simple fact is that when we have a well-resourced healthcare system, we see improved health outcomes across our community,” she said.

“Ensuring that our hospitals have adequate staff to do what

they do best is the absolute bedrock of ensuring these outcomes.”

The NSW Government is also: implementing safe staffing levels of nurses and midwives beginning in emergency departments; saving 1,112 temporary nurses by making them permanent; abolishing the wages cap and delivering record pay increases for nurses, paramedics and other health workers as well as salary packaging; beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities; and doubling the health worker study subsidies.

Reid welcomes report into early childhood education Member for Robertson Gordon Reid has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) final report on early childhood education and care (ECEC).

The Federal Labor Government commissioned the ACCC inquiry to get a greater insight into the factors driving fee increases in the sector, with the report finding that since the

introduction of the Government’s Cheaper Child Care measures, the average reduction in out-of-pocket expenses for centre-based day care was 11 per cent.

“The initial impact of the changes to the Child Care Subsidy rates has been positive for childcare users, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for all types of care,” the report says.

It also found that since

Cheaper Child Care was introduced, other average reductions in out-of-pocket expenses across the sector have been: 8.8 per cent for outside school hours care; 12 per cent for in-home care; and 13.8 per cent for Family Day Care.

The report also found more can be done to keep out-ofpocket costs down, especially for cohorts experiencing

vulnerability or disadvantage.

Among other things, it recommends changes to the existing hourly rate cap mechanism, and stronger price monitoring by government supported by a credible threat of intervention, including naming and shaming providers who massively jack up fees.

Reid said he looked forward to the Federal Government continuing to make positive

changes to the sector.

“On the Central Coast, we know that it is becoming increasingly difficult for families to access childcare services,” he said.

“I also look forward to listening directly to local families and the region’s childcare providers at the Robertson Childcare Forum on February 2, where I intend on taking issues that are discussed

to Education Minister Jason Clare and Minister for Early Childhood Education Anne Aly to address.”

The Government will consider the ACCC’s report alongside the Productivity Commission inquiry into ECEC, which is due to be finalised by June 30.

The ACCC’s final report is available on the ACCC website.

1 FEBRUARY 2024

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

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

contact@cheralyndarcey.com

A Healing Garden While the weather may be a little too hot at times for planting, you can certainly do some planning and I think one area of the garden that is often overlooked these days is simply a place to rest, to find peace and even to heal.

While no one can deny that such a place can bring benefits, the act of gardening too has it’s own gifts.

Healing while in the midst of creating a garden be it physical, emotional and/or mental healing and support is not confined to religious practice or the latest mind body soul fad.

Cultures throughout the world and time have practiced great value in gardening as a healing art.

An example is the Japanese art of Bonsai which teaches us to slow down and to focus.

Maybe it’s time to create a healing space and gardening practice for you with what delights and supports you.

I’ve listed a group of plants below, but you might find certain flower, houseplants or edibles are what you are drawn to.

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Mindful Pottering We say it, but do we really do it?

Pottering in the garden involves no plans, no trailer loads of mulch, plants, and expectations.

Just walk to your garden space (indoor or out) and wander around, pulling a weed here, plucking off a pest there and deadheading as you go.

Maybe even planting that packet of seeds which you forgot about in your last gardening blitz or repotting a botanical friend who needs a bit more space.

The point is that you are not goal or outcome driven.

This is like a walk in the park, observing, relaxing and just taking in the view.

In fact, bring a cup or glass of your favourite beverage with you, throw on some music if you like and potter away.

My favourite pottering time is mornings and yes, I do leave my PJs on.

Creating a Healing Garden I think seating in a garden or botanical spot with a peaceful vibe needs a seat of some sort.

While it is lovely to wander and to stand around a garden

cheralyn.darcey cheralyn created for calm, being able to sit is important.

To rest yourself physically as well as mentally and to just ‘be’ within the space for as long as you need is far better achieved with a seat.

While outdoor furniture is one answer, so are benches and stools created from old tree stumps and upcycled weather resistant materials.

My favourite bench in my garden is just an old sleeper bolted to a couple of tree stumps or go all the way with a lunge or day bed.

A created sculpture of any size or a nature feature that serves as a sculptural piece.

An interesting log, an old piece of machinery or equipment.

Sculpture in the garden rests our minds with something of beauty or makes us curious and in turn this takes our thoughts away from what may be disrupting our peace.

The elephant in the garden is probably garden gnomes and I am not about to comment on your taste so if you like them, if they or a 10-foothigh Buddha, collection of fairies or for that matter, an elephant figure are your idea

of peaceful bliss then, do it!

A great expanse of nothingness could also be your idea of Zen, but even if you find sitting in a jungle of green soothing, a small clear space within gives you a place to rest your gaze and is a design element that will enhance the garden by providing contrast between the full and the void.

You may also enjoy sitting, lying, or collapsing on the grass after a particularly stressful day.

Fountains, fishponds and water plant features are all such soothing and alluring places in gardens and if you have the space and the desire then you really should investigate.

Should you already have a pool or spa, consider surrounding with some of the plants listed below to add to the Zen. Why water makes us feel calm is not really known but it has been shown to slow our brainwaves and there is some evidence that the sounds we could hear in the womb, a time we would have felt safe, are reminiscent of other water sounds.

Calm Inducing Plants

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS Long Jetty Produce Swap: Bateau Bay Community Garden 10am – 11am Saturday 3rd February Come along and swap out your excess organic produce for something you need or desire. Produce swaps also accept organic homemade items like jams, preserves and other treats. Come along to the first Long Jetty Produce Swap even if you have nothing this time to get a feel for how your local produce swap works.

More info: www.facebook.com/longjettyproduceswap Your Permaculture Garden Course: Central Coast, address on enquiry Begins Saturday 10th Feb for 6 consecutive Saturdays (3 hours each session) Learn how to create your own edible garden and live more sustainably, using permaculture practices.

The course will be held on a productive property and will provide an opportunity for practical experience and to learn about the different permaculture strategies to create an abundant garden. This course is designed for everyone, no matter what the size of your own space, from a balcony to acreage, for renters, community gardeners and homeowners alike. Weekly attendance will allow you to put your learning into practice in your own garden and return the following week with any questions and to share successes.

Firstly, consider greening up areas with soft textured plants which are within reach that suit your environment, and this could include ferns, shrubs, and grasses.

The gentle movements in caught breezes will calm the mind and the greenness soothe the soul.

The following plants can all be grown inside or out and have additional therapeutic qualities for Zen living.

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) is known for its skin healing benefits but it also purifies the air of carcinogens and emits oxygen at night.

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) when grown near pathways and seating areas will enable you to brush past and release the aromatics that help bring clarity to your mind and feel less frustrated.

Been found to lower frustration and boost alertness.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is almost famous for its sleep inducing and relaxation characteristics when used in teas.

Cutting the flowers and drying to use in potpourris will bring the

same benefits into your home.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) contains within it a compound known as ‘linalool’ which has been found to reduce the activity of certain genes that are triggered during stressful situations.

The Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata) is one of the best plants for purification of the air, according to NASA and while they purify the air during the day, they emit oxygen at night.

Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a must in any garden as the flowers and the leaves contain the powerful aromatics.

By inhaling the scent of lavender, it has been shown to especially decreased feelings of depression and confusion.

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) fragrance is a super soother and anxiety reliever for many.

A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reported that the smell of Jasmine can be a soothing as Valium.

Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is not just for cats!

It not only sooths the nerves of our feline friends but of humans as well.

THIS WEEK’S GARDENING GUIDE 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

Information & Booking: https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-your-permaculture-garden

Central Coast Cactus & Succulent Club Autumn Sale Charmhaven Community Hall, Narara Avenue Charmhaven: 9am – 12pm Saturday 2 March Stick this one in your diary! Cash preferred but eftpos with fees is available. Please bring your own boxes/bags to take home your treasures. For more information about the club and its activities, head over to their Facebook page.

More info: www.facebook.com/cccscInc

List your event for free: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

PAGE 30

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SPORT

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Funding boost for three league clubs In a major vote of confidence in local rugby league, Wyong Leagues Group has taken its commitment to a higher level for three major clubs in the local competition.

The Toukley Hawks, Berkeley Vale Panthers and Ourimbah Magpies have current longstanding relationships with the Group,but the new arrangement sees a substantial increase in funding which will benefit all levels of competition from juniors right through to first grade.

Wyong Leagues Group CEO Ben Coghlan said it was an opportunity to provide tangible benefits to the great game of rugby league here on the Coast.

“It is a game that we understand; it is part of our DNA if you like,” he said.

Representatives of local rugby league clubs Toukley Hawks, Berkeley Vale Panthers and Ourimbah Magpies

“Our team, led by Sponsorship Manager Brock Molan, put forward such a strong case for proactively seeking out this opportunity; the decision to increase our involvement was

a very easy one for our Board to endorse.

“We are genuinely excited to be able to enter into agreements with these important local clubs.”

Toukley Hawks President Phil Gearside said the club was delighted that Wyong Leagues Group had chosen to continue the long-standing partnership and increase its commitment.

“We look forward to working with their Canton Beach Sports Club through this coming season and beyond,” he said.

Ourimbah Magpies President Warrick Faint also thanked the

Group for their commitment to rugby league on the Central Coast.

“As a foundation club, this partnership allows clubs like ours to foster and promote rugby league in the Ourimbah community,” he said.

“They should be recognised and celebrated by the whole of the Central Coast.”

Berkeley Vale Panthers Club President Matt Roberts said not only were they grateful for Wyong Leagues Group’s commitment to their community club they were greatly impressed with the Group’s passion and big-picture thinking for rugby league on the Coast.

“We look forward to again spending a lot of time at their Bateau Bay Bowling Club this year,” he said.

Boost for Southern Spirit Southern Spirit Cricket Club is set to receive $25,000 towards a new turf cricket pitch roller thanks to the State Government‘s $37.2M Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

The program will consist of more than 600 small community projects, ranging from capital works to services and programs, events, supplies and equipment, charitable donations and playground and park upgrades.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said community sport

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with Southern Spirit Life Member Jamie O’Donnell

held a special place in her heart.

“I know the joy that getting out and playing a team sport brings to our community,” she said.

“Southern Spirit Cricket is a fantastic community cricket club, bringing together Coasties through the love of cricket, on and off the pitch.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting our community sport clubs thrive and I am thrilled that this cricket roller will provide the club with a world-class field to play the game they love.”

Expressions of Interest Building Construction Head Contractor St Mary's Catholic Primary School, Toukley.

Notice of 1080 baiting

Replacement of demountable classrooms with six permanent classrooms. Refurbishment of five classrooms, student amenities, administrative and staff spaces. Construction of an outdoor learning space and undercroft.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting a ground baiting program in Bouddi National Park from Thursday 1 February until Thursday 28 March 2024.

The operation will use 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison for the control of foxes.

Project cost $8. 7M Provide capability and financial statements, relevant experience, referees, and proposed personnel details.

The program is designed to minimise predator impact on wildlife, especially threatened species.

Signs will be located at the entry to the baiting location. Domestic pets are not permitted into NSW National Parks managed land. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental

Tender will be early 2024.

Send EOI to RP Infrastructure at: stmaryseoi@rpinfrastructure.com.au Project funded by Commonwealth & State Governments and by Catholic Schools Broken Bay.

Please contact the Local Girrakool NPWS area office for further information on (02) 4320 4200.

LP1883

poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

EOI Closes: 19th February 9am

The new roller will be used at Umina Oval, giving Southern Spirit Cricket Club, which comprises men’s, women’s, juniors and veterans cricket teams, the ability to properly prepare a high-quality turf wicket right throughout summer.

Ensuring a high standard playing surface at Umina Oval will help foster and grow cricket on the Central Coast, Tesch said.

“This is a fantastic outcome for the people of Gosford,” she said.

Southern Spirit Cricket

Director of Cricket Sean Dickson said the funding was much appreciated.

“Grants like these are essential for local sporting clubs to help provide top quality recreational services and experiences to its members and the greater community,” he said.

“The funds granted to us have been utilised in the purchase of assets which will go a long way in the future proofing of our club for current and future members.”

Proposed Optus co-location works at an existing Telstra telecommunications facility located off Thomas Walker Drive, Chittaway Bay NSW 2661 (RFNSA #2661019) 1. The proposal involves the installation of: • One (1) new Optus headframe mounted on the existing Telstra 30m monopole at an elevation of 26.50m; • Three (3) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m long) mounted on the new headframe at an elevation of 26.50m.

• Three (3) new 6419 Antenna Integrated Radio Units (AIR) mounted on the new headframe at an elevation of 27.45m.

• Three (3) new 3219 Antenna Integrated Radio Units (AIR) mounted on the new headframe at an elevation of 26.38m.

• Six (6) new Remote Radio Units (RRU) mounted behind the proposed new antennas at an elevation of 26.50m; • One (1) new three bay outdoor cabinet installed at ground level adjacent to the existing monopole in the Telstra compound area; and • Ancillary equipment including, but not limited to, GPS antenna, cabling, cable trays, electrical works, and other associated equipment.

2. Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 ("The Determination") based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: John Roelandts on 0406 680 068, or via optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or ServiceStream Level 7, 2 King Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 by Wednesday 14 February 2024.

4. If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2261019

THURSDAY, 1 FEBRUARY 2024

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Huge win for Narara Wyoming CRICKET Day two of round seven of the Central Coast Cricket Competition on Saturday, January 27, saw a massive outright win for NararaWyoming over Wyong.

Narara-Wyoming was bowled out for 198, with Peter Cross top scoring with 72 and Andrew Ryan contributing 65 runs.

Lachlan Rainger was the pick of the bowlers finishing with six for 30 from 17.3 overs.

Wyong entered the crease for their second innings with the bat and were bowled out for just 67 runs, giving NararaWyoming the win.

Warnervale declared at 9/305 at the start of day two, which saw Southern Spirit openers Liam O’Farrell and Matt Jones come to the crease.

Jones fell in the second over which gave Warnervale the momentum taking a few quick wickets.

Liam O’Farrell was able to

reach 55 before being dismissed.

Southern Spirit was bowled out for 10/174.

Warnervale’s Harry Townsend was the pick of the bowlers, finishing the day four for 30 from 18.5 while Daniel Hill picked up three wickets.

Lisarow-Ourimbah finished their first innings declaring for 9/200, with Max Oteiwi top scoring with 51 not out.

Dave Molan led the bowlers, finishing with three wickets.

Northern Power’s top order batters were hit hard by Scott Burkinshaw’s bowling; he took five for 62 from 29 overs by the end of the day.

Ben Gillies was the top scorer for Northern Power, adding 46 to the total.

In an epic finish Northern Power were just three runs short of what LisarowOurimbah had set for the chase.

Brisbane Water had a big task

Photo: Trent Dickeson

John Thurlow of Brisbane Water at the bat

in front of them to chase down the 210 set by Terrigal at Duffy’s Oval.

The Brisbane Water batters fell just 15 runs short, with 31 being the top score from John Thurlow.

Terrigal Matcham’s bowling attack proved to be to strong

and saw Riecko Parker-Coles take five for 76 from 21 overs.

The Entrance were bowled out for 189 with Broc and Jake Hardy scoring a half century each and Kobe Allison scoring a quick 41.

Kincumber-Avoca bowlers Michael Pate and Liam Roche

finished with three wickets each.

Kincumber-Avoca entered the crease in what looked to be great match-up with The Entrance bowlers.

Kincumber-Avoca wicketkeeper Harry Woodhead put up a great fight, top scoring

with 37, but The Entrance showed why they are on top of the table, bowling out Kincumber-Avoca for 165.

The Entrance bowlers Gregory Kitchen, Kobe Allison and Jarrod Blackman all took three wickets each.

In the women’s first grade competition, Northern Power Orange 0/107 defeated Northern Power White 5/106 with Angela Wark top scoring on the day 31 not out off 21 with five fours and Emma Raychaudhuri 2/17 off three.

Kincumber Avoca 6/135 comfortably defeated The Entrance 5/59.

Layla Graham smashed 36 off 30, being the top scorer in the match, and Scarlett Sheridan yet again had great bowling figures of 2/6 off four.

Narara/Terrigal 1/59 defeated Wyong 9/56.

Emily Humphreys finished not out on 23 off 13 with four fours and skipper Alex Bobbi Smith took 2/7 off two.

Top basketballers head for Coast Central Coast Basketball is set to welcome teams from around NSW for the annual Coastal Classic Basketball Tournament this month.

Running over two weekends in February, Coastal Classic is the state’s premier pre-season competition for junior representative basketball.

The tournament is a great boost to the Central Coast economy, with teams coming from as far as Albury and Byron Bay to compete for the title of Coastal Classic Champions.

Kicking off the two weekends is the Division Two competition, commencing on Friday, February 2, from 6pm at Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium in Terrigal.

The tournament will run at multiple venues across the Central Coast including Niagara Park Stadium, Central Coast

There will be top basketball action on the Coast over the next two weekends

Adventist School, Central Coast Grammar School and Bateau Bay PCYC. Central Coast Basketball General Manager Matt Tredrea

BRAZEL MOORE

FAMILY

said Coastal Classic was a wonderful event for the organisation and for the greater NSW basketball community.

“Each year we look forward to

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Players will come from all over the state

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in the country,” he said.

“Along with showcasing our region, we are incredibly proud to promote our community partners, where visitors can

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experience some luxury stays, amazing food and outstanding Central Coast hospitality.

“With more than 140 teams coming to compete in the Coastal Classic again in 2024, we look forward to welcoming everyone to the region and watching some brilliant young talents on the court.”

There will be free entry across all venues.

Grand final matches will be played on Sunday, February 4, at Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium.

The Division One weekend will be held from FridaySunday, February 16-18.

For more information visit www.ccbasketaball.com.au/ competitions/coastal-classic -2024-2

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Mariners women bring home the F3 derby

Photo CCM Media

The Central Coast Mariners women celebrate winning the inaugural F3 derby

In a thrilling Liberty A-League match on Sunday afternoon, January 28, the Central Coast Mariners women showcased their dominance with a convincing 2-0 victory over their rivals, the Newcastle Jets.

From the onset, the Mariners displayed tactical superiority,

swiftly countering the Jets’ early attempts at goal.

The Mariners’ offensive prowess was on full display when Rola Badawiya delivered a masterful low cross to Wurigumula, who expertly navigated the ball past Nino, securing an early lead for the Mariners just two minutes into the game.

Despite the Jets’ persistent efforts to breach the Mariners’ defence, the Central Coast’s backline, led by the outstanding goalkeeping of Sarah Langman, remained impenetrable.

Langman’s exceptional save, deflecting Mindy Barbieri’s free-kick into a corner, was a testament to the Mariners’ defensive resilience.

The synergy between Melina Ayres and Sarina Bolden for the Jets posed little threat to the Mariners, who maintained control and composure throughout the match.

The turning point came in the 72nd minute when Paige Hayward brilliantly outmaneuvered the Jets’ defence to double the Mariners’ lead, leaving the Jets

scrambling for answers.

The Mariners nearly extended their lead even further when Shadeene Evans’ shot agonisingly struck the crossbar in the dying moments of the match.

This near-miss underscored the Mariners’ relentless pursuit of victory and their offensive firepower.

Ultimately, the Jets could not mount a comeback, solidifying the Mariners’ triumph and earning them the prestigious inaugural F3 Derby Women’s trophy.

This victory not only highlights the Mariners’ strategic and cohesive gameplay but also cements their status as formidable contenders in the league.

Mariners men silence Brisbane Roar Central Coast Mariners traditional fan photo after the game. Photo: CCM Media The Central Coast Mariners showcased their championship pedigree with a solid 2-0 victory over Brisbane Roar in the Isuzu UTE A-League Round 14, under the lights of Industree Group Stadium on Saturday evening, January 27.

Mark Jackson’s Mariners demonstrated tactical brilliance and resilience, with Miguel Di

Pizio and Angel Torres delivering the crucial goals that ensured victory.

The opening goal came from Di Pizio in the 38th minute, as he expertly finished a dynamic counter-attacking move by the Mariners, finding the bottom corner with precision.

While Brisbane Roar maintained control of the ball for significant periods in the first half, the Mariners’ defensive discipline and counter-attacking prowess were on full display.

Notably, a key moment was when goalkeeper Danny Vukovic was called into action, making a pivotal save against Roar’s Nikola Mileusnic, preserving the Mariners’ lead.

The Mariners continued to apply pressure and defend cohesively, ultimately sealing their win with Torres’ emphatic strike in the final minute of regulation time.

This goal, resulting from another swift counter, underscored the Mariners’ ability to capitalise on their

opportunities and secure a clean sheet against a persistent Roar side.

This match reaffirmed the Mariners’ status as a formidable force in the league, with their strategic approach and clinical execution on both ends of the pitch leading to a well-deserved victory.

Next weekend the Mariners men travel to Coopers Stadium to take on Adelaide United – a venue that has proven a real challenge for visiting teams over the years.

Photo: CCM Media

Central Coast Mariners’ traditional fan photo after the game