Coast Community News #428

Mariners CEO steps down

Shaun Mielekamp has announced he will step down from his position following almost nine years of dedicated service to the club.

See page 31

Rally airs grievances against Council

About 50 people representing various community groups gathered outside Central Coast Council’s Wyong chambers prior to the general meeting on February 27 to demand big planning decisions be left until after councillors are elected on September 14.

Rallying at 5.30pm, the combined group said its brief was to “stop unelected councillors wrecking the Coast” and demand proper consultation rather than “PR spin”.

Protesters said Council was the most complained about council in NSW and there had been a 52 per cent increase in community complaints and a 155 per cent increase in complaints to the Environment and Planning Department.

They said Council did not follow its own policies and there was a lack of transparency.

A major point of contention was a

“dubious” Wamberal Protection Association developer partnership to build a 1.3km seawall at Wamberal.

Protesters also bemoaned continued debt and broken rates promises and a decline in local services.

They are demanding more accountability from Administrator Rik Hart and senior Council officers.

Groups represented were Wamberal Save Our Sand, the Community

Environment Network, the Central Coast Community Better Planning Group, Gosford Politics in the Pub, Central Coast Australian Conservation Foundation (CCACF), Save Our Coast, and Stop the Sell-off.

Several people addressed the crowd, including Norm Harris from (CCACF), who said many residents wanted and deserved an ecologically sustainable future.

“(They want a future) that protects the beauty, amenity and biodiversity across the whole Central Coast and not developer profit margins aided and abetted by … directors who want to rezone environmental lands for development,” he said.

Harris spoke of systems failures within Council and said the Central Coast Regional 2036 Plan focused on safeguarding the environment as paramount.

“Yet there are too many inappropriate planning proposals and developments listed as State Significant Developments on important conservation lands that are to be rezoned,” he said.”

He called on the State Government to review and fix the CCLEP 2022 and place a moratorium on all rezonings, SSDs and developments that involve land zoned C2 and C3.

Terry Collins

Some of the protesters outside Council chambers on February 27

Shaun Mielekamp and his wife Lesley celebrating the Mariners’ A-League grand final win last year

Central Coast Mariners Chief Executive Officer

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Council should look to Mariners for leadership tips

The Central Coast presents a study in contrasts in a landscape where leadership can often be the difference between progress and stagnation.

The Central Coast Mariners, under the stewardship of CEO Shaun Mielekamp, have demonstrated the power of visionary leadership.

Mielekamp’s tenure is a testament to building from the ground up, fostering community connections and steering the club through significant achievements

despite major challenges.

In stark contrast, Central Coast Council’s journey since the troubled forced amalgamation in 2015 paints a different picture.

The initial division, followed by the sacking of councillors and the prolonged period under Administration, highlights an effective democratic leadership vacuum.

This administration period

has been marked by hard cost and service cuts and increased rates, fees and charges to necessitate a stronger financial position.

Though without a clear and engaging vision for the region’s future, the Central Coast will likely flounder.

The Mariners’ story, characterised by resilience and strategic growth, offers an inspiring way forward and a concrete model for effective leadership.

It underscores the potential for positive change when guided by clear goals,

NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers from the two Central Coast units – Wyong and Gosford – were recognised for their outstanding service at a special presentation on Saturday, February 24.

Twenty-six volunteers with a combined total of 275 years of service received awards, medals and clasps for their commitment to volunteering and supporting their communities.

Long service awards were

presented for five, 10, 15 and 20 years service.

NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin said at the presentation that the long-serving members were an example to all NSW SES volunteers.

“There’s nothing the NSW SES values more than our people,” he said.

“Those who are receiving awards today exemplify the standards by which we hold ourselves and the dedication to serving our community.”

community engagement, and steadfast commitment.

Over the coming months, CCN will support any group that uses its organisational capacity and goodwill to debate leadership options for the new Council.

As the region moves towards Council elections this September, the need for strong leadership in council governance is more pressing than ever, to navigate out of the current vacuum and towards a brighter, more united future for the Central Coast.

Wyong SES received the Commissioner’s Certificate of Recognition for support during the March 2021 floods.

“It was in these events that the SES volunteers of the Central Coast showed their character,” Deputy Commissioner Austin said.

“We have seen incredible acts of service, bravery and community spirit over the years, and I am pleased to be able to join in recognising and celebrating these wonderful volunteers.”

Other recipients included Andrew Warnest from the Wyong Unit, who received a National Medal.

He deployed to Eugowra in the aftermath of the record flooding that struck the town in October 2022 and was thanked for his service to the community.

Other officials presenting awards included Northern Zone Commander Andrew Cribb, Northern Zone Deputy Commander Ian Robinson and Central Coast Cluster Commander Rolf Garda.

Award recipients from Wyong SES (left); The Gosford SES award recipients (right)

Central Coast Council has received $40M for the Central Coast Road Upgrades project, as the Federal Government delivers on a 2022 election commitment.

Delivery of the funding package,which was announced on February 23 at Empire Bay, will see 46 individual projects carried out over a four-year period, from 2024-27.

Projects have been grouped into two programs and will involve road pavement upgrades and road and drainage revamps.

Member for Robertson

Gordon Reid said the government was getting on with its commitment to deliver safer and smoother roads for the Central Coast.

“When I am speaking with our community, one of the key issues raised is the condition of

$40M delivered for Coast road upgrades

local roads,” he said.

“These upgrades will improve safety and driving conditions for every Central Coast resident.

“I am committed to continuing to advocate for increased funding for our local roads.”

Central Coast Council Director Infrastructure Services Boris Bolgoff said the money would be added to already allocated funding from Council’s own operational budget, as well as other funding from both the Australian and NSW governments.

“Projects were identified by taking the current road condition and life-cycle costs associated with any proposed treatment/upgrade into consideration,” he said.

“Council has also recently carried out a comprehensive road condition audit of the entire local road network using laser technology, which

included visiting sites in person to validate audit findings.

“The focus of this program is targeted at asset renewal,

which primarily focuses on the structural integrity of the road pavement.

“The intent of the works is to

reduce ongoing maintenance costs and improve road safety where possible.

“By identifying issues early

on, and fixing them, we greatly reduce the maintenance burden and improve the user safety for perhaps the next 20 years for these upgraded roads.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said no council could entirely fund major capital works programs in their local government area.

“We thank the Australian Government for this important funding and look forward to continuing to work with both levels of government to identify future grants which will benefit the Central Coast,” he said.

For all information on the progress of Council road projects visit Council’s interactive Capital Works Map at www.centralcoast.nsw.gov. au/about-council/capitalworks-program

New Marine Rescue vessel for Tuggerah lakes

A new $355,000 Marine Rescue NSW vessel, commissioned at the weekend, is set to provide a significant boost for the Tuggerah lakes boating community.

Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris was joined by Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell to officially commission Tuggerah Lakes 21 to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet.

The new vessel, funded by the NSW Government and community donations, was also named the “Tony Younglove”.

Harris said the new vessel was a vital addition to support the lifesaving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.

“This rescue boat has the speed and technology to quickly and safely get rescue crews where they are needed when vital seconds count,” he said.

“This outstanding rescue vessel is a valuable investment in the safety of the region and the active users of our local waterways.”

A petition on change.org calling for jet skis to be banned at Ettalong and Umina beaches has attracted more than 1,500 signatures in just a month.

Started by an anonymous poster on January 23, the petition says Peninsula beachgoers are facing an escalating issue with the use of jet skis.

“These recreational vehicles, while enjoyed by a few, are causing significant noise

Harris said it was an honour to commission the Tony Younglove in recognition of Younglove’s commitment and contribution to the Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes unit.

“Tony is an extremely dedicated volunteer and was awarded the prestigious Emergency Services Medal in 2022,” Harris said.

“He has given so much to the community and it is wonderful that this new vessel will bear his name while it carries out its vital lifesaving work on the region’s waterways.

“On behalf of the people of Tuggerah lakes, and visitors to our local waterways, I thank Tony and all the dedicated, hardworking Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.”

Harris also encouraged all boaters to log on and log off with Marine Rescue NSW either by the free Marine Rescue app or via VHF channel 16.

“Using the Marine Rescue app or establishing contact through VHF channel 16 ensures that a search will be initiated for boaters who don’t return from a voyage

as planned,” Harris said.

Barrell said the new rescue vessel was a much-welcomed asset for the community.

“Boaters and paddlers at Tuggerah lakes can rest easier knowing that this state-of-theart vessel is at the ready should they run into trouble,” he said.

“Volunteer crew members at Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes have been fully trained on the operation of the new vessel and are ready to respond to people in need.”

Powered by twin 115 horsepower Suzuki outboard engines and with a specialist Raymarine suite of maritime navigation equipment and FLIR (forward looking infrared camera), the vessel is a 6.3m walk-through centre console Naiad.

Barrell said the replacement rescue boat was designed and built to meet demanding local operating conditions and would prove a reassuring presence for locals and visitors alike.

“As well as assisting boaters

and paddlers on Tuggerah Lake, Budgewoi Lake, Lake Munmorah and surrounding waterways, this vessel can also quickly deploy up to seven nautical miles out to sea to rescue boaters who find themselves in trouble offshore,” he said.

“The Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes unit had its busiest year ever in 2023, completing a unit record 65 search and rescue missions, 14 of which were emergencies.”

Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Unit Commander Bob Sutton thanked the local community for its generous support of the unit’s fundraising efforts to contribute 20 per cent of the cost of the new vessel.

He said the new vessel was a significant improvement over the unit’s former Cobia rescue boat.

“The upgraded search and rescue technology on board has improved our search capability, which is vital to our mission of saving lives on the water,” he said.

“The lakes are quite shallow and when the wind blows up

Call to ban jet skis on Peninsula

pollution that disrupts the peaceful ambiance of our beach areas,” it says.

“More importantly, they pose a serious safety risk to swimmers due to their high speed and potential for accidents.

“In addition to these concerns, jet ski users often bring food packaging which ends up as litter on our beaches or in our waterways, contributing to environmental degradation.

“Despite these negative

impacts on our community and environment, there is no economic benefit from their presence as jet ski users typically do not contribute to the local economy during their visits.”

The petition cites a study by Griffith University in Queensland (2019), which reveals personal watercraft like jet skis have been involved in numerous incidents resulting in injuries or even fatalities over recent years.

“This highlights the urgent need for stricter regulation or an outright ban on such vehicles,” it says.

“We urge local authorities to enforce a ban on jet skis (on) Central Coast Peninsula waterways in order to protect our community members’ safety and preserve the tranquillity and cleanliness of our beloved beaches.”

To access the petition, search jet skis Umina at change.org

these waterways become treacherous.

“This vessel has many important features including improved handling, manoeuvrability and greater volunteer comfort allowing our crews to operate more safely for longer periods and in a wider range of weather and conditions.

“Our crews cover an area of 80sq kms, assisting boaters, paddlers and users of our local waterways, and this vessel is a welcome addition to our fleet.

“Naming this vessel the Tony Younglove is a fitting tribute to much respected unit life member Tony Younglove.

“Tony was Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Unit Commander for six years from 2015.

“He is currently our training officer and is doing a wonderful job developing the unit’s next generation of volunteer crew.”

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

Call

Director of Infrastructure Services Boris Bolgoff, Member for Robertson Gordon Reid and Council Administrator Rik Hart at the announcement

From left: David Harris, Tony Younglove, Alex Barrell and Bob Sutton at the official commissioning of the new rescue vessel

Member for Robertson

Gordon Reid has put the big oil companies operating on the Central Coast on notice during a speech in the Federal House of Representatives.

Reid is continuing his campaign for more equitable petrol prices on the Central Coast in general, and the Woy Woy Peninsula in particular.

“I am committed to continuing to shine a light on the price of fuel on the Central Coast,” he said.

“I am also concerned about the variation in prices across the Central Coast, where fuel sold in Wyong can be 20-30 cents cheaper than fuel sold at Umina Beach.

“My speech in the House of Representatives was about calling out this issue and putting on notice the big oil companies for letting this happen.

“Motorists on the Central Coast should not have to travel to Wyong to buy cheap fuel.

“I have written directly to every oil company with service stations in the region and have asked them to explain why our

Mounties Group’s Central Coast clubs have joined forces with OzHarvest, Australia’s leading food rescue organisation, to contribute to its Central Coast Food Rescue program – a crucial initiative aimed at diverting food waste into providing meals for those in need.

In a country where 7.6 million tonnes of food is wasted annually, and 3.7 million households grapple with food insecurity, OzHarvest is making a significant impact.

In the Central Coast region, OzHarvest rescues an average of 4.3 tonnes of high-quality, surplus

The Voices of Central Coast (VOCC) will hold a Public Forum on Wednesday, March 6, with expert speakers in the lead-up to the Council elections in September.

Questions such as how local government really works and how we rebuild effective local democracy on the Central Coast will be addressed.

VOCC President Barbara Wills says this will be an important year for local democracy as elected representatives are returned to Central Coast Council.

Reid puts big oil companies on notice

region experiences higher fuel prices.

“To date, only two have responded and have blamed international events for causing higher fuel prices.

“I will continue to apply pressure on the big oil companies until our region is treated fairly and with respect.”

In his speech, Reid reminded fellow MPs that addressing cost-of-living pressures was the Government’s top priority.

After outlining cost-of-living savings delivered by the Government, including cheaper childcare, bulk-billed Medicare urgent care clinics, fee-free TAFE positions, cheaper medicines and tax cuts, he said another significant cost-ofliving pressure affecting families living on the Central Coast was the price of fuel.

“I continue to be a staunch critic of those big companies who operate on the Central Coast,” he said.

“Many are charging motorists in the region more for fuel than those in places further away such as Coffs Harbour or Dubbo.

“These places are hundreds of kilometres further away from shipping ports than the Central Coast is.

“However – and here’s the part that doesn’t make sense to me – our service stations sell this fuel for 20 to 30 cents more per litre compared with these places.

“Further to this, the discrepancy between fuel prices sold at any of the Central Coast service stations can vary substantially.

“Why is this the case?

“I’ve written directly to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to investigate this situation, and I received a very underwhelming response.

“In its response, the ACCC provided a bureaucratic explanation for why fuel on the Central Coast is routinely more expensive than in harder-toreach places and why prices vary inside the region.

“They also mentioned the Central Coast is susceptible to fuel price cycles influenced by the Sydney market.

“If this were the case, why are oil companies selling fuel cheaper in Sydney than in places on the Central Coast?

“The answers to our queries have not been making any sense to me, and they certainly have not been making any sense to the motorists and my constituents living on the Central Coast.

“Consequently, I’ve written to

Mounties Group backs OzHarvest

food each week, diverting it from landfill to feed those in need.

A ClubGRANTS donation of $15,000 from Club Wyong, Breakers and Halekulani Bowling Club has been given to OzHarvest to ensure the program can continue to thrive and will directly support the rescue and delivery of 30,000 meals for locals.

“The OzHarvest Central Coast Food Rescue program sees food delivered, free of charge, to 57 local charities, helping put 8,663 meals on the tables of vulnerable households every week,” Mounties Group President John Dean said.

OzHarvest’s Central Coast program has witnessed

remarkable growth in response to increased demand since it started in 2020.

Evolving from one van in 2021,

it now operates two vans four days a week, servicing 10 suburbs in the south of the region from Woy Woy to Somersby, and

15 in the north from Bateau Bay to Lake Macquarie.

“We started on the Coast in urgent response to the devastating food insecurity caused by COVID-19,” OzHarvest NSW Manager Richard Watson said.

“Three years on, families and vulnerable households are still struggling – with housing affordability, unemployment and rising costs of living.

“Without OzHarvest’s stable supply of nutritious food, an estimated 9,150 vulnerable community members would simply go without.”

Dean said the Mounties Group

Public forum ahead of Council election

“There has been a high level of community dissatisfaction with Council under Administration for almost five of the past eight years,” she said.

“There is also deep concern about the current Administrator’s efforts to influence the upcoming Council elections and promote the view that Council is a de facto Board of Directors – rather than representing the interests of residents, ratepayers and the community.”

Expert speakers will suggest some fresh thinking about the varied roles of councillors and

the underlying purpose and nature of local government in our region.

Speakers will include Managing Director of The Inglis Group, former Council CEO and former councillor Glenn Inglis; and Adjunct Professor, UTS Institute of Public Policy and Governance, Graham Sansom.

The event will have an independent facilitator in Coast Community News Managing Editor David Abrahams.

“This event will give community organisations and residents the background information that they need in the run-up to September

Council elections as they consider what kind of candidates they want to support,” Wills said.

“It will also be useful for anybody considering standing as a candidate.”

VOCC is a non-partisan community group that wants to improve our democracy.

The Public Forum will be held on Wednesday, March 6, from 6.30-8.30pm at Ourimbah Lisarow RSL Club.

Numbers are limited and bookings are essential at: www.voicesofcentralcoast. org/events

every major oil company operating on the Central Coast and requested an explanation.

“To date, only two companies have responded.

“In both responses, the companies have indicated that market forces are responsible for fuel prices on the Central Coast as well as international factors like the war between Ukraine and Russia and growing instability in the Middle East.

“But why is the Central Coast bearing the brunt of these factors?

“Why aren’t other regions?

“Why is Sydney escaping the pressures that these events are having on our fuel prices?

“These responses provided by the big oil companies leave my communities with more questions than they have answers to their concerns.

“I’m putting the big oil companies operating on the Central Coast on notice; stop these nebulous responses and stop leaving our people behind.

“Sell your fuel on the Central Coast in line with other regions.

“I will continue to hold these big oil companies to account.”

grant was not just a financial contribution, but an investment in the wellbeing of the community.

“By supporting OzHarvest, we believe in the power of collective action to alleviate hunger, strengthen community bonds with local charities, and build a sustainable future for generations to come,” he said.

The grant will directly ensure OzHarvest’s Central Coast Food Rescue program can continue turning its wheels and supporting vulnerable locals.

For more information on OzHarvest visit www.ozharvest. org

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid speaking in Federal Parliament

OzHarvest services 25 suburbs on the Central Coast. Photo: Nikki To

Facilitator David Abrahams

Coast Connect

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Central Coast Seniors Festival 2024

Our Central Coast Seniors Festival is back this year from 11 – 24 March with a full calendar of exciting events and activities which embrace and recognise the important contributions seniors play in our community. I’d encourage people to take advantage of the 70+ local events taking place over the two-week festival at 22 locations across the Coast, including at Council’s libraries, theatres, leisure centres, galleries, senior centres and more.

Local services and resources available to seniors will be on show at the annual Seniors Expo on Thursday 21 March at Wyong Racecourse, with a variety of stallholders from businesses, services, and community groups around the Central Coast. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak to organisations first-hand, ask questions and gather resources.

Council is committed to strengthening our diverse population by creating new opportunities for connection, creativity, inclusion, and opening the door to local sporting, community and cultural initiatives – our annual Seniors Festival is a commitment at the heart of our Community Strategic Plan.

Search ‘Seniors Festival’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au to download the full event calendar.

What’s on

• Sat 2 and Sun 3 March –former Kincumber Waste Facility (Cullens Rd, Kincumber)

• Sat 9 and Sun 10 March –Council’s Long Jetty Depot (1 Morris Place, Bateau Bay)

All events run from 9am to 3.30pm For full list of accepted items

Exciting new playspaces coming your way

We’re renewing ten playspaces across the Central Coast, unlocking the full potential of the facilities by making way for improved and accessible playspaces for locals and visitors alike.

Locations include:

• Applegum Park, Woongarrah

• Ben Davis Reserve, Bensville

• Lions Park, Gwandalan

• Maidens Brush Reserve, Wyoming

• Oregan Place Reserve, Hamlyn Terrace

• Parkland Gardens Reserve, Tumbi Umbi

• Pioneer Park, Kulnura

• Wamberal Hall, Wamberal

• Woodbury Estate Park, Mardi

• Young St Reserve, Norah Head

These renewals include innovative and inclusive recreational upgrades with sensory play panels, swings, nest swings, and park furniture. Plus, the inclusion of rubber softfall and new concrete pathways to connect the playspaces.

The $1.1 million of upgrades commenced in February and are expected to be complete by April.

To view the designs, search ‘playspace renewals’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Reclassification of community land to operational

There are 10 Council properties to be reclassified from community land to operational land, with most of the sites being retained by Council or transferred to local community organisations that provide recreational, sporting or accommodation facilities.

The properties are currently on public exhibition, with two public hearings also to be held on 9 and 11 April.

For more information, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com

Have your say about public art on the Central Coast

We’re calling on you to complete a short survey to help us understand your values around public art and inform the development of a new 10year Public Art Plan.

The plan will provide a cohesive vision, support local creatives, and the delivery of public art across the Coast for all to enjoy.

For more information, search ‘Public Art Plan’ online at yourvoiceourcoast.com

Expressions of interest

Attention businesses and community groups

Jump on the opportunity to advertise in the 2024 ChromeFest program for this year’s event in October. ChromeFest has become NSW’s largest rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly festival with last year’s event attracting over 55,000 people.

To submit your interest by 29 March, search ‘ChromeFest EOI’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Central Coast Council news and community information

Central Coast Council is calling on the community to complete a short survey to help inform the development of a new 10year Public Art Plan.

The survey is the first step in a community engagement program that will be rolled out in March and April, involving talks with community groups, artists and creatives, industry professionals and businesses.

Council says this is an opportunity to shape the approach to public art which will place the community, and its creative practitioners at the heart of the plan.

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said public art played an important role in the community.

“This survey is the first step

Have your say on Public Art Plan

in engaging with the community, understanding their values and seeking feedback on what should be included in a Public Art Plan,” she said.

“It’s important everyone has their say as this plan will outline how we can support the delivery of public art for the community to enjoy.

“We want the Central Coast to continue to be a place where people want to live, work and play.

“Public Art contributes to this by engaging communities, telling stories, evoking conversations and creating a sense of place.”

The 10-year Public Art Plan will outline: a cohesive vision that all public art projects can use as a conceptual foundation; opportunities for local artists and artists beyond the region to

develop public art on the Coast; and frameworks that identify and invest in the development of large-scale public artworks.

Administrator Rik Hart said the Public Art Plan was one example of how Council was growing and supporting local creatives and creative industries and fostering a sense of belonging.

“This is a great opportunity for the community to have their say,” he said.

“Public art contributes to local identity, tourism and increased social interactivity that leads to better social outcomes, education and community connections.”

The survey is open until 5pm on Monday, March 18, at www. yourvoiceourcoast.com/art to have your say.

Coast tops list of natural disaster risk areas

The Central Coast tops the state as the local government area currently at most risk of multiple natural disaster hazards including storms, floods, bushfire, coastal erosion and inundation.

But by 2060 the Coast will slip to second place, with the Northern Beaches moving to the top.

The NSW Government has released the two lists as part of the nation’s first State Disaster Mitigation Plan (SDMP), developed by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

The plan reveals the cost of building and infrastructure damage from natural disasters could hit $9.1B per year by 2060 if mitigation steps are not taken, as more frequent and severe events take an increased toll on homes, businesses and government infrastructure.

The 2023 average annual loss (cost of damage) from all hazards assessed in the built environment which includes residential, commercial and infrastructure assets was estimated at $3.1B per year.

Residents can safely drop off unused, out-of-date or unwanted household chemicals laying around the home, garage or shed for free at Central Coast Council’s Chemical CleanOut events in March.

The cleanups will be held over two weekends: on Saturday and Sunday, March 2 and 3 from 9am-3.30pm at the former Kincumber Waste Management Facility on Cullens Rd; and on Saturday

The report says the hazards that drive the largest potential damage to the built environment today are storm and flood, representing 77 per cent of this average annual loss.

“Natural hazard risk will continue to increase in the future due to both population growth and the impact of climate change, and the relative contribution varies according to the hazard,” the report says.

The Average Annual Loss (AAL) is the expected or average cost of damage to property and infrastructure arising from all occurrences or probabilities of a given natural hazard in any one year.

It is calculated for each hazard and quantifies the expected or average yearly damage to the built environment, which spans residential and commercial property, industrial facilities and infrastructure.

“While this metric is weighted to the built environment it is a useful way to compare the likely impact across different natural hazards,” the report says.

It identifies the top 20 LGAs affected by the greatest number of hazards and with the highest number and density of homes and infrastructure.

The State Disaster Mitigation Plan outlines how the rising costs of disasters can be addressed by refocusing government policy towards risk-reducing actions, and details how government agencies can work together to help communities prepare for worsening bushfires, heatwaves, floods, storms and coastal erosion.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority will help coordinate delivery of the actions to improve community resilience and mitigate against disasters.

Since 2019, NSW residents have endured over 65 declared disasters, costing taxpayers more than $6B, with more than 20,000 homes damaged in 2022 alone.

Climate change is expected to increase the severity and frequency of natural disasters.

The SDMP includes a toolkit of measures to reduce communities’ exposure and

vulnerability to disasters through awareness and preparedness campaigns, evacuation infrastructure and warning systems.

The actions include: building a new local government toolkit to guide councils in preparing for disasters and the impacts of climate change; developing local Disaster Adaptation Plans that will inform future planning processes and rebuilding and reconstruction efforts after a disaster occurs; developing early warning systems so communities are better prepared when disaster strikes; identifying mitigation infrastructure strategies and approaches to funding; working with industry to review building codes to factor in greater building resilience through materials and design; reviewing insurance levy arrangements and working with the insurance sector to factor in affordability in adaption planning; and assessing the feasibility of large scale off shore sand reserves and other sources for beach nourishment including locations

Free chemical cleanouts in March

and Sunday, March 9 and 10 from 9am-3.30pm at Council’s Long Jetty Depot, 1 Morris Pl, Bateau Bay.

Items that can be dropped off include paint tins, pesticides, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, fluorescent globes and tubes and any unknown or unidentified chemicals which are accepted for identification and correct disposal.

Only household quantities will be accepted.

This includes up to 100L of

paint in containers of 20L or less.

For all other items, up to 20L or 20kg will be accepted.

Transport material safely by keeping chemicals in the original container and remaining in vehicles when dropping off hazardous waste.

This initiative is run twice a year providing Central Coast residents with a safe and free disposal option for chemical waste.

The Household Chemical

CleanOut program is a NSW Government Waste Less

Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy, brought to you by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Paintback and Central Coast Council.

For the full list of chemicals that can be dropped off at the Chemical CleanOut events and information on storing and transporting unwanted chemicals safely, see the links on Council’s website.

where it might be suitable.

The 168-page report notes current challenges related to planning controls.

“The number of future assets and properties exposed to significant natural hazard projects will continue to grow under current planning controls,’’ it says.

“There is ongoing pressure for new housing in both regional and metropolitan areas, including housing required to support relocations for purposes of adaptation.”

The report says community awareness of natural hazard risk and preparedness for impacts is low across the state.

The SDMP will be supported by place-based, local and regional Disaster Adaptation Plans (DAPs).

A draft DAP Guideline and Framework will be available for consultation in mid-2024 and the NSW Reconstruction Authority will deliver the next State Disaster Mitigation Plan in 2026, which will identify projects for the longer term.

Merilyn Vale

A 2022 public art installation by artists Andi Mether and Leonardo Uribe (Zest Events) in collaboration with Toowoon Bay SLSC stingray participants

Storms and floods pose the greatest risk

Residents should remain in their vehicles and wait for chemicals to be collected

The Central Coast is the second highest recycling local government area under the Return and Earn scheme in the state, behind Blacktown.

As NSW celebrates the major new milestone of 11 billion containers recycled, it was announced that Central Coast residents have recycled 511,125,067 bottles, cans and cartons through their local return points since the scheme began in 2017.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said this had seen millions of dollars in container refunds go back into people’s pockets and $54M raised statewide for charities and community groups via donated refunds and return point hosting fees.

She said Return and Earn has

Coasties are recycling champs

become a leading contributor to the growing domestic circular economy.

“Coasties have well and truly made the Return and Earn program part of their regular

routine,” she said.

“It is thanks to your enthusiastic efforts that we have reached this milestone, creating a more sustainable future for all.

“The everyday actions of our community play an important role in the continuing growth of our domestic circular economy, achieving a more sustainable future.

“The Return and Earn program proves that sustainability does not have to be difficult, but can be as simple as small actions like recycling bottles, cans and cartons, with every little action combining together for a brighter, greener future.

“(This) is an easy way for all of us to help the environment and support the work of some amazing local charities.”

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the Return and Earn program was introduced under the former Liberal-National government in 2017.

“People right across the Central Coast embraced the Return and Earn program when it was first introduced and year after year the program has continued to pass milestone after milestone, which is proof of the community’s

commitment to the war on waste,” he said.

Crouch said it was encouraging to see so many people on the Central Coast using Return and Earn regularly and that not only the environment, but the community, was feeling the positive impacts of recycling.

“We’ve seen a massive reduction in beverage container litter in NSW thanks to Return and Earn, but we’ve also seen more than $54M raised for charities and local community groups thanks to donated refunds and return point hosting fees,” he said.

For more information about Return and Earn or to find your nearest return point visit www. returnandearn.org.au

Upgrade for Bushlands Reserve

Following collaboration with Central Coast Council to identify a local playground for an upgrade, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has announced Bushlands Reserve in Springfield will receive a $50,000 revamp.

“I’m pleased to be able to

announce that Bushlands Reserve will soon be home to a new flying fox and drinking fountain as part of a $50,000 investment from the NSW Government,” Crouch said.

“After speaking with Council and the community to identify a suitable playground for an upgrade, it was clear that Bushlands Reserve would be a

great investment for the Springfield community which is home to many young families.”

Crouch acknowledged the advocacy by the Springfield Residents Association in putting Bushlands Reserve forward for an upgrade.

“Without the strong advocacy

of the (association members), who have consistently lobbied for a drinking fountain at the park, this project would not have come to fruition,” he said.

“I also want to thank Brett Sherar from Central Coast Council for ensuring these funds are delivered to the Springfield community.”

Bushlands Reserve is set for an upgrade

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch at one of the Coast recycling outlets

Ten locations across the Central Coast are receiving playspace upgrades, making way for improved and accessible play areas.

Upgrades totalling $1.1M began in February and are estimated to be complete by April at a variety of locations.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Culture Melanie Smith said Council’s Playspace Strategy ensured playspace assets were maintained through a renewal program based on the age of equipment and its condition.

“Council’s 2020-2025

Playspace Strategy provides strategic direction for the development and sustainable management of playspaces on the Central Coast.” she said.

“Council’s planned upgrades ensure these community assets are maintained through a renewal program with regular reviews and a programmed schedule of works to maintain, upgrade and – where necessary – remove old, vandalised, or

Upgrades for 10 playspaces

broken equipment.

“We are excited to see the renewal of the 10 playspaces as they play an important role in our community and to visitors to the area as a place where children can develop physical, emotional, social and cognitive skills.”

The renewals have included innovative and inclusive

recreational upgrades including sensory play panels, swings, nest swings, park furniture, rubber softfall and new concrete pathways to connect the playspaces.

The playspaces to be upgraded are: Applegum Park, Woongarrah; Ben Davis Reserve, Bensville; Lions Park, Gwandalan; Maidens Brush Reserve, Wyoming; Oregan

Place Reserve, Hamlyn Terrace; Parkland Gardens Reserve, Tumbi Umbi; Pioneer Park, Kulnura; Wamberal Hall, Wamberal; Woodbury Estate Park, Mardi; and Young St Reserve, Norah Head.

In addition to the planned renewals, construction of the playspace at Kariong, next to the new skate park and pump track at Curringa Rd,

commenced on January 22.

The local level playspace was designed with input from the community and will include slides, climbing structures, a swing set, spring rocker play equipment (suitable for children aged up to 10) and seating.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said playspaces and parks

played an important role in the lives of the community and visitors.

“These renewals have been made possible thanks to Council’s forward planning with funding provided through Council’s capital works budget, with assistance of the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Grant Program helping to deliver Wamberal Hall and Maidens Brush Reserve Playspaces,” he said.

“I’m pleased to see the renewal of these playspaces which will be enjoyed by the community for years to come and will encourage active lifestyles for the children across the Coast.”

To view the Central Coast Playspace Strategy, playspace FAQs and the region’s playspace map visit centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/playspaces

To view concept images for all 10 playspaces search ‘Playspace renewals’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Cutting-edge drone keeps beachgoers safer

Central Coast branch of Surf Life Saving has been awarded a new state-ofthe-art drone as a prize for winning the prestigious Branch of the Year title at the 2023 Surf Life Saving Awards of Excellence.

The recognition highlighted the outstanding commitment and contributions of the branch and all the clubs, directors, staff members and club members who volunteer countless hours to the surf lifesaving movement on the Central Coast.

With 15 clubs and 8,332 members, the 2022-23 season saw more than 600 rescues and 42,600 preventive actions.

Event sponsor D1 Store, Australia’s home for DJI the global leader in drone

The Ninth Life Foundation officially opened a rescue cattery at Erina on February 17.

The charity, whose ambassador is comedian Kitty Flanagan, was started by Jules Dos Santos in 2021 with the help of Sydney veterinarian Dr Yvonne Van Der Veek and animal rescue veteran John Holland.

Its purpose is to care for, and eventually rehome, senior or high-care cats that have been displaced by changing circumstances.

Typically, their former owner

technology, donated a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal drone to the Central Coast branch as the prize for the prestigious award.

The DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal drone is a cuttingedge tool equipped with advanced thermal imaging capabilities and benefits for emergency response activities, playing a crucial role in enhancing beach surveillance, ensuring water safety at events, and improving search and rescue operations along the Central Coast.

“Receiving the Branch of the Year award is a humbling acknowledgment of the dedication and passion exhibited by our 15 clubs and volunteers,” Surf Life Saving Central Coast CEO Michael

Hyslop said. “We are committed to continually improving and innovating our lifesaving efforts, and the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal drone will

play a pivotal role in advancing our capabilities.”

Some of the key benefits of the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal drone for emergency response include enhanced

visibility, quick deployment, versatility, and precision search and rescue capabilities.

The Central Coast Branch with the assistance of the Australian Uncrewed Aerial

Finding homes for senior cats

might have died or moved to a nursing home, or their family is going through a break-up.

Many have simply been abandoned due to their high needs.

“As cats get older, their veterinary costs start to increase, and this puts additional pressure on their owners,” Dos Santos said.

“Despite this challenging environment, in the past two years, we have successfully rehomed more than 100 cats.”

The charity originally leased cattery space at two commercial catteries but

always planned to have a dedicated facility.

Last year the dream was given a fantastic boost when the foundation was awarded a grant by the NSW Government.

Donors stepped in with additional support and the facility is now a reality – with the appropriate name of Ninth Life House.

The ribbon was cut by Dos Santos’ daughter Skyler.

Inquiries about adoptions and donations, either individual or corporate, can be made at www.ninthlifefoundation.org

Vehicle Service (AUAVS) is well-prepared to maximise the benefits of this donation, boasting a strong base of more than 30 trained UAV operators. These dedicated individuals are equipped with the skills and expertise to operate the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal drone effectively in various emergency response scenarios.

Surf Life Saving NSW extends its sincere gratitude to D1 Store for their generous contribution, recognising the importance of cutting-edge technology in safeguarding our communities.

The Central Coast Branch is proud to lead the way in utilising such advanced tools to ensure the safety and wellbeing of beachgoers and residents.

The staff at the new cattery; Ambassador Kitty Flanagan

The concept design for Ben Davis Reserve, Bensville

State-of-the-art DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal drone

Officeworks appeal a bonus for Smith Family

The Central Coast community has helped raise more than $8,700 for The Smith Family through a major fundraising effort run by Officeworks Tuggerah.

The money will help provide essential education support to 13 children in the region impacted by poverty.

Held from December 26 to February 11, Officeworks Tuggerah’s fundraising contributed to $1.3M raised by Officeworks stores across the nation during the 2024 Back to School Appeal.

Funds raised will go to The Smith Family’s Learning for Life sponsorship program, helping 2,000 children and families impacted by poverty afford the cost of their child’s essential school supplies like uniforms, books and excursions, as well as providing personal support and extra educational programs to help students stay motivated and

connected to their learning.

Over the course of its decade long partnership with The Smith Family, Officeworks’ customers and team members have contributed more than $9M through the annual appeal, enabling The Smith Family to provide more than 14,000 oneyear Learning for Life scholarships for students across Australia.

“We are so grateful for the ongoing support of Officeworks, their generous customers and passionate team members, who have come together to support young Australians with their education,” Smith Family CEO Doug Taylor said.

“When young people start school without the essentials they need to keep up with their peers; they risk falling behind and disengaging from their learning.

“With this long term, wraparound support, even more students will be able to stay

Calling aspiring young photographers

engaged at school and make the very most of their education.”

Officeworks Tuggerah Store Business Manager Alice Baric thanked the community for its support.

“I would like to thank each and every customer and team member who contributed to this year’s appeal and supported The Smith Family’s Learning for Life sponsorship program and the vital work it does in enabling all Aussie children to have fair access to education,” she said.

The Back to School Appeal is part of Officeworks’ People and Planet Positive commitment to support 30,000 students by 2025.

Having already supported more than 40,000 students since 2020, and more than 16,000 Australian students in FY23 alone, Officeworks revised this goal to support 60,000 students by 2025.

If you’re a young aspiring photographer with a keen eye and a love for the world around you, Central Coast Council would love to see your work.

Entries for the second Your World Your Way youth photography competition are open until Thursday, February 29.

The free-to-enter photography competition is open to young people aged 1224, with judges especially looking for photographic content that includes local locations and young people.

The winner will receive $1,500, with $750 going to Highly Commended and $250 to the People’s Choice.

Award recipients will also

receive professional development and mentorship to produce a printed body of work, a four-week exhibition, and a 12-month magazine subscription (seven issues) to Australian Photography.

The top 20 shortlisted images will be printed, framed and showcased at the Erina Centre exhibition space and published on Council’s website during Youth Week in April.

During the Youth Week exhibition, the community is invited to participate in the People’s Choice Award by casting a vote for their favourite photograph.

Council’s Director of Community and Recreation Melanie Smith said this was an exciting opportunity for young

people to showcase their skills to a wider audience.

“This year we offered emerging photographers a chance to fine tune their skills during the school holidays with a development workshop which was an opportunity to meet other like-minded peers from around the area,” she said.

“I am proud Council is offering this opportunity for young photographers to have their work exhibited professionally and I am continually amazed by the talent of our local young people and can’t wait to see the entries.”

Council’s Administrator Rik Hart said Council’s Youth Development Team had worked hard to create opportunities for

young people to come together and be proud of their community.

“It’s a very easy competition to enter and I would encourage budding photographers to pick up a camera or phone and take a snapshot of what’s important to them,” he said.

The winner of the Your World Your Way Youth photography competition will be announced in the Erina Centre Exhibition Space on April 3 as part of the National Youth Week celebrations.

Further information and details on how to enter is available on Council’s website at www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.

au and search for ‘Your World Your Way’ youth photography competition 2024

Humidity sees funnel-webs out and about

The Australian Reptile Park is urging the public to exercise extreme caution as a surge in rainfall and sudden warm weather sees an increase in funnelweb spider activity.

The rise in humidity is bringing the spiders out of their hiding places, particularly during the peak of their breeding season as they emerge from their burrows in search of a mate.

There is a potential chance of encountering these venomous creatures within the confines of your home as they seek shelter from the scorching temperatures.

The Park is urging the public to safely collect live funnel-

web spiders and hand them in for its lifesaving antivenom program, in which the spiders are used for the collection of venom needed to make antivenom.

In an educational video of warning that every Australian must watch, Spider Keeper Emma Teni steps the average Australian through safely catching the venomous spider and contributing to the Park’s vital funnel-web spider antivenom program.

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

“We rely on public donations of funnel-web spiders to build up our milking individuals.”

The Sydney funnel-web prefers to make its home in sheltered, shady spots, which are always cool and humid.

This makes backyards containing dense leaf matter, scrap material or simply backing onto bushland, the perfect environment for the spiders to burrow and safely breed.

“When found inside homes, the spiders prefer cool, damp places like the laundry, garage or in shoes left out on the ground,” Teni said.

“It is best to ensure you are not leaving washing and

clothing on the floors.

“If you leave your shoes outside make sure you check them first before putting your foot in blindly as shoes can be the perfect little burrow for funnel-web spiders.

“Pool filters should also be checked and cleaned regularly.”

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

There are a multitude of participating spider drop-off locations.

To find your nearest location go to www.reptilepark.com.au

Last year’s winning image by Nathan Barwick

Officeworks Tuggerah staff members Rachel Peters, Melissa McMahon, Donna McArdle and Annika Lanham-Craine

The spiders are milked for the antivenom program

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

NEWS IN BRIEF Clean-up day

There will be a clean-up around the Avo a Beach foreshore on March 3 in honour of Clean Up Australia Day.

Sign in at the table in Hunter Park from 10am; the clean-up runs from 10.15-11am.

Bags and gloves provided but please bring spares if you have them, a reusable water bottle and closed shoes.

https://register.cleanup.org. au/fundraisers/avocabeach

Activists meet

Central Coast Activists will meet at Ourimbah RSL Club on March 6.

The meeting will go from 11.30am to 1pm and all are welcome.

Lagoon opened

In response to recent heavy rainfalls and rising water levels, Central Coast Council opened Terrigal Lagoon on Friday, February 16, to mitigate flooding by aligning with the low tide mark.

Council says it is remaining vigilant in monitoring all coastal lagoons and waterways in the area to ensure community safety and environmental health.

A special cake to mark radio milestone

Dot Woolmer of North Gosford is no “Swifty” but you would be hard pressed to find a more loyal fan.

Every Sunday for 28 years she has been listening to Mike Kennedy present the Australian Country Music Show on Coast FM 963.

And this year on March 13, Woolmer will be attending the Gosford-based radio station in person to present Kennedy with a cake to mark the 30th anniversary of his show.

“I think he is wonderful,” she said.

“He helps all the young Australian country singers coming through; well, he helps all the singers.

“He plays new artists and pioneer artists like Slim Dusty

or Tex Morton.”

Woolmer never misses a show, listening in every Sunday for 28 years.

“I might bake a cake or buy one and take it to the station,” she said.

“He has a lot of fans in Gosford.”

Kennedy is not surprised by Woolmer’s kind act.

“She is one of my regular listeners and brought me cakes for my 25th and 27th anniversary,” he said.

“I have some very loyal fans, many who have lost partners.”

While Woolmer is looking forward to the special occasion, Kennedy says it will be “another day at the office” for him.

“I don’t think we will be doing

anything special,” he said.

Kennedy has interviewed thousands of country singers in his time after studying speech and drama at the Australian

College of Music in London, and dabbling in singing, acting, and working as a sales manager before finding a passion in radio in 1980.

He has hosted various country music radio shows and was inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame in Tamworth in 2016.

Kennedy is also a long-time supporter of charities and many fundraising concerts over 40 years and is currently co-hosting the series of Australian Country Music Stars of Fame concerts to raise funds for Camp Quality.

Even though he turns 77 in April, Kennedy said he had no plans to retire.

“I don’t want to retire, what would I do?”

The Australian Country Music Show currently airs every Sunday from noon to 2pm and also streams across the world via the Coast FM website.

Special fundraiser at The Springs

The Springs Resort at Peats Ridge will host a very special morning tea on Tuesday, March 5, from 11am-1pm.

The town hall style meeting – Coffee and tea with your local MP – will feature State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Federal Member for Dobell

Emma McBride, who will chat to residents over a cuppa and cake made by Chef Dan about what is happening around the Central Coast.

The $20 charge for coffee and cake will be donated to the family of Matt Hall, who died following an accident on Peats Ridge Rd on February 6.

“Matt was on life support from the Tuesday of the accident but sadly passed the following Saturday,” a spokesperson said.

“He leaves behind his partner Jade and four little ones, aged five, three, two, and five months.

“The community is rallying to

do all we can for her.”

The family will also receive proceeds from the Table of Give and Take at the Mangrove Mountain Farmers and Artisans Market on March 3.

The Springs is at 1080 Peats Ridge Rd.

Matt Hall

Mike Kennedy has been presenting his Australian Country Music Show for 30 years

FORUM & ON THE BEAT

We must keep 15 councillors

Federal and State parliamentarians state consistently they cannot be removed from their elected positions because in a democracy they are elected by their constituents.

Fifteen democratically elected Central Coast councillors were suspended, then dismissed with a stroke of the pen by a Minister of the NSW State Coalition Government, (who then appointed) an Administrator who was not elected by the community from October 30, 2020.

On September 14, 2024, ratepayers will vote for 15 new councillors.

These 15 councillors will represent ratepayers across five wards.

Ratepayers will be asked to complete a constitutional referendum to determine if the number of councillors should

FORUM

be reduced to nine.

This will mean a 40 per cent reduction in ratepayer representation with the wards being reduced from five to three.

This referendum came about while the Council was under administration.

A community consultation was conducted online from the March 1-15, 2021.

A total of 613 rate payers responded with 478 indicating a change in councillors and wards is needed.

This was 0.1 per cent of the total Central Coast population at that time. (Census 2021: Central Coast Population approx. 346 000)

Federal politicians represent approximately 150 000 constituents; State politicians represent approximately 51 000 to 62 000 constituents; 15 Councillors represent approximately 69 000 constituents in each of the five

wards (part-time).

Nine councillors would represent 115 000 constituents in each of three wards (parttime).

It is for these reasons that ratepayers should vote a resounding No to the referendum on Saturday, September 14.

Please note: I have never been a councillor on any council.

Email, Feb 27

Allen Slater, Convenor, Central Coast Activist Collective

Search for Spoon Bay rescue heroes

On Sunday, February 25, at around 5-5.30pm my daughter and her friend were snorkelling at Spoon Bay and both got caught in the rip and almost drowned.

The friend’s mother and I are trying desperately to find the amazing men who rescued them, putting themselves in

danger in spite of the rip which was really strong and dragging towards the rocks.

We are two incredibly grateful mothers who would so love to thank the men involved in person.

If anyone can put us in contact with these men please email emmanuellehaworth@gmail. com

Email, Feb 26

Emmanuelle de Simone, Terrigal Good Samaritans save

the day

Even before the NRMA had a chance to intervene, the local community raced to our rescue recently.

We were out for a drive in our newly-acquired MX5, coasting down Empire Bay Rd, when the motor suddenly cut out leaving

us stranded by the side of the road.

Enter our first set of shining knights – a man and his two children from Kincumber High School.

They had seen us pulling over and offered their help.

As the NRMA was being rung for help, we thanked them.

After they went, Tom from Jim’s Dents and Repairs pulled up and offered his help.

He had previously owned an MX5 and suspected the immobiliser was the problem.

He had our car started in a few minutes.

After many heartfelt thanks, he went on his way.

A friend going past recognised our car and pulled up, offering assistance.

To say that we were impressed by this display of community

spirit is an understatement. We were floored.

The NRMA never got a chance!

Thank you again to all the above Samaritans.

Email, Feb 23

Peter Murphy, Ettalong

Where are the trees?

Good news: Council is upgrading 11 play areas around the Central Coast.

Yay.

Bad news: Council is NOT providing any shade at any of these areas.

Boo.

Email, Feb 26

Phil Morrison, Bateau Bay (skin cancer sufferer)

Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum

Intricate cliff rescue saves paragliders

Two paragliders stranded on a cliff face at Wybung Head were saved in a complex vertical rescue mission on Sunday, February 25.

A man and woman were stuck on a ledge after crashing

into the headland south of Frazer Beach in Munmorah State Conservation Area.

Multiple emergency and rescue crews converged on the area after the alarm was

raised at about 4.30pm.

Rural Fire Brigades from Lake Munmorah and Wallarah cut a route through the thick vegetation for rescuers to access the scene and set up lines to rescue the paragliders.

It took almost two hours and

a combined effort of police, special operations paramedics, firefighters and a Central Coast VRA Rescue Squad to pull off the rescue operation.

A medical team was winched down to the stricken paragliders by the Westpac Rescue

Helicopter and the pair was stabilised before being lifted back up to safety.

Both the man and woman sustained leg injuries and were taken by ambulance to John Hunter Hospital.

Inquiry continues into house fire death

Police have renewed their appeal for information as part of an ongoing investigation into a house fire at Lake Munmorah last year, where the body of a woman was located.

At about 10.25am on Friday, September 8, 2023 emergency services were called to Clarence St following reports of a house fire.

Officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District arrived to find a house well alight.

The fire was extinguished by

firefighters from NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW.

Following a search of the home, the body of a woman was located.

She has since been formally identified as 84-year-old Robyn Hough.

Two dogs were also located dead within the home.

A crime scene was established, and investigations commenced under Strike Force

Metzler led by Tuggerah Lakes Detectives and assisted by the State Crime Command’s Arson Squad.

As part of ongoing inquiries, the scene of the fire was forensically re-examined by specialist police on Tuesday, February 27.

As a result, several further items of interest were seized by police to be examined.

As inquiries continue, police urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw. crimestoppers.com.au

Dump truck stolen from Jilliby

Tuggerah Lakes Police District Proactive Crime Team is appealing for information that could assist in the recovery of a stolen dump truck that was recently stolen from a construction site in Jilliby.

It was stolen between 3pm on Sunday, February 25, and 6am on Monday, February 26, and driven from the site through adjacent bushland on to the Doyalson Link Rd.

The construction site is on the corner of Kiar Ridge and Hue Hue Rds, Jilliby, where Police believe the dump truck may have been loaded onto a waiting truck and driven from the location.

The yellow Thwaites dump truck has registration plates 98508D.

As inquires continue, police are urging anyone with information about this incident or might have dashcam footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au and quote the Police Report No. E 82141577.

The stolen dump truck

A Westpac Rescue Helicopter team was winched down to the stranded paragliders; Multiple emergency and rescue crews were involved in the cliff rescue

Police re-examine scene of house fire

It’s been 13 years since

The Wizard of Oz hit the stage at the Laycock St Community Theatre, but from March 1 the theatre will be transformed into the Emerald City for three weeks.

The well-known musical follows the enchanting storyline of young and spirited Dorothy Gale, who is swept by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the

magical land beyond the rainbow.

The journey to find her way back home leads the teenager to meet lifelong friends Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion as they all discover the power of friendship, courage and selfdiscovery.

L. Frank Baum’s classic novel has been faithfully adapted by the Royal Shakespeare

Company, featuring all the most beloved songs and moments from the 1939 film.

As Dorothy and her friends journey along the Yellow Brick Road to see the mysterious and all-powerful Wizard in Emerald City, they brave many dangers, including the Wicked Witch of the West, who will stop at nothing to get her hands on Dorothy’s magical ruby slippers.

Wizard of Oz opens at Laycock St

The cast and production team have been working on the show since October, with Director Chris King comparing it to the Ben Hur of musicals.

King has assembled a fine cast of 85, headed by Jessica King as Dorothy, Todd Key as the Lion, Cody Baldwin as the Scarecrow, Brayden MacFarlane-Walker as the Tin Man, Elizabeth Herd as Glinda, Karen Snook as the Wicked

Witch, Darryl Davis and Geoff Hay as Uncle Henry and the Wizard and Amanda Benson as Aunt Em.

He has family ties to the show, with daughter Jess playing Dorothy and granddaughter Willow Wilson portraying a munchkin in the Lullaby League.

It is also a family affair for Todd Keys, playing the Lion, who will bring his son Hudson

onto the stage for the first time.

The production features memorable songs, high energy choreography, dazzling costumes and stunning set designs and is one not to miss.

Tickets are already 65 per cent sold.

The Wizard of Oz is at Laycock St Community Theatre from March 1-17.

Book at gosfordmusicalsociety.com

The Bob Henderson Band will have people dancing in the Parkview Room at Central Coast Leagues Club from 2-5pm on Sunday, March 3.

The band comprises top Central Coast musicians with Henderson on trumpet, Ed Wilson on trombone and top

reeds man Paul Furniss.

They will be backed-up by Dave MacRae on piano, David Seidel on double bass and the always popular Lawrie Thompson on drums.

The musicians have a wealth of experience playing all eras of jazz, and collectively have worked with Graeme Bell, Bob

Barnard, Don Burrows, Warren Daly, Tom Baker and Galapagos Duck, to name a few.

The band presents familiar tunes, acknowledging Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Harry James, Louis Prima, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Bobby

Darin, Van Morrison, Harry Connick Jnr, and the compositions of Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, Hoagy Carmichael, and many more. There is plenty of room on the large dance floor and all are welcome.

From left: Cody Baldwin, Brayden MacFarlane-Walker, Jessica King and Todd Keys in The Wizard of Oz

Elizabeth Herd as Glinda

Bob Henderson

Central Coast Council is calling for artists to present and develop new performance work in its Performance Illuminated pilot program.

The program, to be run in Council-owned and operated theatre venues, is intended to support emerging works and performers at Laycock St Community Theatre, Wyoming, and Peninsula Theatre, Woy Woy.

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the theatres were piloting three approaches in the program to attract a diverse and vibrant range of uses for the intimate stages of Council’s theatre venues.

“By Council offering a range of supportive options for the performing arts industry to pitch ideas to use the space, we are increasing opportunities for arts on the Coast and fostering work in a variety of forms,” Smith said.

The successful applications will be selected via a panel assessment, which will make recommendations about the applications that qualify against the criteria in the assessment matrix provided

BOOK REVIEW

Council pilots new performance program

in the application process.

“Council is looking forward to seeing a diverse mix of performing artists from a cross section of the industry utilise these theatres and deliver works to help define our region as a

with Julie Chessman

cultural destination.

“Performance Illuminated will provide artists with opportunities to co-present new work, develop new work and the space to rehearse.”

There are three options supporting different stages of

Tony Curtis) and controversially RFK (the supposed commander of the sharpshooter sent to eliminate Monroe.

This is suggested to be Robert F Kennedy, brother of the then president, with inferences that he was involved in Monroe’s death following her alleged affairs with each of the brothers, but ironically the novel explores only a relationship with the president.

Why did Joyce Carol Oates write about Marilyn Monroe?

creative development. Greenlight Season is a program that supports artists to present new performance work through a door split model available at both Peninsula Theatre and Laycock St Community Theatre.

Flashlight Access will support artists to access rehearsal space in the Don Craig Room at Laycock St Community Theatre on dark days during staffed business hours.

The Pen Residency will

walk like that?

Author: Joyce Carol Oates

Joyce Carol Oates is an American writer who published her first book in 1963, and has since published 58 novels, a number of plays and novellas, and many short stories, poetry, and nonfiction – so we can say she is qualified to tackle the mystical, controversial, iconic figure that was Marilyn Monroe.

Oates insists that the novel Blonde is a work of fiction that should not be regarded as a biography, yet there are too many likenesses to the actor’s life not to take this with a pinch of salt.

Blonde was a finalist for the prestigious Pulitzer Prize (2001) and many influential sources have listed it as one of Joyce Carol Oates’ best books.

Oates herself regards Blonde as one of the two books (along with Them) she will be remembered for.

At more than 700 pages, Blonde is one of Oates’ longest works of fiction; even then some sections were shortened while others had to be surgically removed from the book.

Although many notable names are changed, Oates sometimes uses recognisable initials such as TC (presumably

Was it to give a voice to the woman who had become nothing more than a famous face?

Oates grew to understand her subject and to respect the woman who became Marilyn Monroe, knowing that she had no agency in the world; she was the perpetual victim

Marilyn Monroe was among the most legendary actresses the world has ever seen and was also the sex symbol of the industry in the 1950s and early 1960s.

She was known for her bold and stereotype-breaking personality and involvement in the era’s sexual revolution, being an emblem of the same.

As well as the being an enormous conspiracy theory topic, she was a cultural icon.

We are obsessed with her, often wondering how did she

How did she do her makeup?

Marilyn was born in 1926, and lived with foster families from babyhood.

The late actor’s mother was not working and did not take care of her well, which is why she was taken away from her. However, Marilyn did eventually regain contact with her mother.

Marilyn Monroe described her childhood as being that of a mini Cinderella.

The actor revealed what it was like to live with foster families; even though she was very little, she used to clean floors and do the laundry and dishes for the families.

Throughout her life, Marilyn did not go by rules but rather made her own.

Her journey has inspired actresses for generations, and

support artists to develop new creative work in the Peninsula Theatre.

Administrator Rik Hart hopes to see professional and emerging performers take up the opportunity to apply for the pilot program, helping promote and activate Council’s owned and operated community theatres.

“Fostering and investing in artistic endeavours will build the collective arts culture on the Coast and deliver social and economic benefits,” he said.

“The variety of options being piloted in the program are suited to different performers and works but they are all aimed to foster quality work, and boost performers’ bottom line while occupying our theatre venues with diverse and vibrant creative initiatives that shape our culture.”

Applications will be open throughout March, with the programs running from April to October.

To apply for Performance Illuminated visit theatres. centralcoast.nsw. gov.au/ performanceilluminated

illness, excessively seeing a psychiatrist five times a week.

Things you may not know that Oates explores:

Marilyn Monroe was inspiration for the Mattel doll Barbie – the company felt that she captured the essence of their doll.

while a simple thing like a pair of jeans was known to be comfort apparel for men, Marilyn Monroe inspired women to opt for them as casual wear.

In February 1954, Marilyn was on a trip to Japan with her then-husband Joe DiMaggio when she impulsively and without prior permission took a detour to Korea.

She entertained the troops by performing 10 shows in the course of four days, with 100,000 soldiers and marines attending

More importantly, while mental health was not widely discussed in the 1950s (we know that she was manicdepressive, which is now called bipolar), Marilyn Monroe did not shy away from talking about her struggles. She spoke up about it on various occasions and worked hard to overcome her mental

Monroe’s signature breathy speaking voice was actually a tactic the actress used to overcome a childhood stutter. Marilyn was supposed to play Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

The nude dress she wore to sing Happy Birthday in 1962 was so tight she had to be sewn into the dress.

Fans and stars alike were drawn to her with auctions of her dresses raising more than $3M.

Marilyn appeared in the very first edition of Playboy.

After a three-year investigation, Pulitzer Prize finalist Anthony Summers introduced a new timeline of events on the fateful night the actress died, with ambulance company owner Walter Schaefer stating that Monroe was alive when the ambulance arrived but died in transit.

Joyce Carol Oates herself is an enigma at 85 years of age; she is called the unruly genius and shows in this novel she is the perfect person to talk about Marilyn Monroe

The program aims to foster emerging works

It’s Mardi Gras month across Australia and on Thursday, February 29, the super popular Welcome Choir will return to the Fun Haus Factory in Gosford at 7pm.

The drop-in choir, with no auditions and no need to read music, sees each gathering learn a new song and deliver it karaoke style.

This week, in celebration of Mardi Gras, diversity and inclusion the featured song will be We are Family by Sister Sledge.

With a beer or mocktail in hand The Welcome Choir is an open, friendly, all ages singing group for all singing abilities.

Saturday night, March 2, is

Mardi Gras month at Fun Haus Factory

the Mardi Gras parade.

If you can’t make it to Sydney for the big event, be at the Fun Haus Factory viewing party live on the big screen with local DJ Ruby Red and drag performances from 5-11pm.

Sonic Sunday will feature Karl S Williams and Sally Wiggins bringing folk, blues and gospel inflected songs into fascinating new territory from 3-5pm.

This is an all ages/family friendly event where you can grab a Columbian Empanada lunch and a cheeky Sunday arvo drink.

Doors open 2pm.

Book or register for free events at naughtynoodle.com. au/whats-on

Laughs abound at Link and Pin

The laughs are flying thick and fast at the monthly Sink or Swim session at the Link and Pin, Woy Woy.

The evening presents some of the best comedy talent in Australia, with the audience deciding if each act should sink or swim.

On Thursday, March 7, top

comedian Eddy Rockefeller and Julia Wilson will appear.

Rockefeller is raunchy, irreverent and officially unemployed (she used to work for herself but got fired for sexual harassment).

During the past two decades she has performed to audiences all over the world, most recently returning from New York.

Known around the scene for her affable nature, she’s not afraid to tell you her deep dark secrets – in fact she has to, she can’t afford therapy.

She was nominated for a swag of categories at the Newcastle Fringe Festival in 2021 and 2022.

Julia Wilson has headlined comedy events all over the

world, thrilling audiences in Australia, Britain, South Africa, Croatia, Germany and Canada. Her humour is not for the faint hearted.

Sink or Swim will be held at 7.30pm on Thursday, March 7, at the Link and Pin.

Entry $10 at the door.

There will be a Mardi Gras viewing party live on the big screen; Karl S Williams and Sally Wiggins

Julia Wilson; Eddy Rockefeller

Monthly market launches at Mangrove Mountain

The Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group will launch a monthly market on March 3.

The grand opening of the Mangrove Mountain Farmers and Artisans Market will be held from 9am-3pm at the historic Mangrove Mountain

hall and recreation reserve and will return on the first Sunday of every month.

The market, organised and run by the not-for-profit organisation, was set up to give the hinterland’s wonderful local farmers, artisans and cottage industry an outlet to showcase and sell their wares, while providing a great day out

for visitors to the area and locals alike.

It will feature everything from farm fresh mountain fruit and vegetables, plants and flowers to award-winning cheeses, gourmet chocolates, local honey and, of course, CWA jams, preserves and Devonshire tea.

There will also be an array of local artisan and cottage industry stalls selling handmade pottery, macramé, woodworking, art, beautifully illustrated children’s books by local author Trish Flannery and more.

Adding to the market’s community focus will be the Community Treasure stall,

featuring a range of quality items including produce, jewellery, books and children’s toys donated to the table of give and take.

See something you like on the table and it’s yours for a donation of what it’s worth to you, with all proceeds going to the local cause or charity of the month displayed on the board.

For families, there’s also a playground for the children and a picnic area.

Don’t forget to check out the visitors information stand with lots of things to see and do as well as upcoming events in the area.

bus trips.

MUSIC

Tempo Terrific Community Concert Band. Rehearsals Monday 5-7pm, Kincumber Uniting Church New Members Welcome. Come join us! Follow us on Facebook.

Wallarah Community Band Inc Wallarah Community Band Inc (all ages) - Tuesday 6.30pm-8pm. Wallarah Junior Band (primary school age to under 19yrs) - Tuesday 5.30pm-6.30pm. The band performs in concerts in the community and competes annually at either the Australian National Band Championships or the NSW Band Championships.

PROBUS CLUBS

Rehearsals: During school term only from 7.11.2023 @ Kanwal Public School, Craigie Ave, Kanwal NSW

Probus Club of Wyong We meet on the 4th Monday of each month with interesting speakers, plus coffee mornings and outings. We’d love to meet you! To learn more and register for our next meeting contact us. Follow us on Facebook

SERVICE GROUPS

Lions Club of Woy Woy Make new friends & have fun while serving your community. 3rd Monday of each month at the Ettalong Diggers Club, Ettalong. 6PM for 6.30PM start.

WOMENS GROUPS

Community & Business Women's Network Looking for motivation, inspiration and a place to learn new skills to help your business grow? CBWN is a community for Central Coast Women just like you. A supportive network to connect, inspire, learn & grow together. Our monthly events cover the whole Central Coast Region.

Country Women’s Association Woy Woy 30 The Boulevarde, Woy Woy. Craft &

1300 650 594

www.tempoterrific.com

Email: tempoterrific@live.com

Facebook.com/Wallarahband

Call Sylvia 4351-8382 or Email probuswyong55090@gmail.com

0478 959 895

Website: www.cbwn.org.au

Email: Info@cbwn.org.au

Phone: 0414 341 010

Email: woywoycwa@gmail.com

Phone: 0411 434 785

Peninsula Women's Health Centre Councelling, theraputic and social groups, workshops, domestic violence and abuse issues. All services by women for women. 4342 5905

There will be a huge range of local produce

The market will be held at the Mangrove Mountain Hall and recreation reserve

An International Women’s Day Expo 2024 will be held at The Entrance Community Centre in Norberta St from 10am-3pm on Saturday, March 9.

Many prominent women’s organisations including CWA of NSW, Soroptimist International, Zonta Club of the Central Coast, Iris Foundation, Community and Business Women’s Network, Community Women’s Health Centre, Volunteers Central Coast, Better Hearing and TAFE NSW Aboriginal Engagement will be present with stalls to provide

International Women’s Day expo

information about their work in the community.

The prestigious Central Coast Women in Art Exhibition presented by Tuggerah Lakes Art Society will be launched at 6pm on Friday, March 8, at the centre and will run from March 9-24.

The exhibition highlights regional female artists with art, sculpture, and photography with all the exhibits available for sale.

An Artisan Market on March 9 will showcase local artisans.

There will be artwork, candles, diffusers, beeswax,

honey, jewellery and more.

CWA of NSW Tuggerah Lakes Branch will sell a selection of cakes, jams, pickles and their renowned Devonshire teas, as well as a selection of handicraft items.

There will be entertainment throughout the day and the very popular Yarn Bombing Art Installation will be present again this year throughout the complex.

Extra information is available on the Festival Facebook page: www/facebook.com/ccfestival women

Paint and sip to support sexual assault survivors

The Lyons Den in Gosford will host a Paint & Sip charity event on March 8 to support sexual assault survivors.

It will be held in conjunction with International Women’s Day.

In 2021, The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) released a report which showed that sexual assault was a significant problem for the Central Coast

local government area.

Last year, local author and advocate Renee Marie Simpson and counsellor April Rose Brophy decided enough was enough and partnered with The Survivor Hub to bring a monthly peer-led support group to Gosford.

At present, the Gosford MeetUp is funded by a ClubsGrant from Wyong Leagues Club and The Foundry Cowork but this event is to

support The Survivor Hub to expand its MeetUps online and in-person across NSW and Victoria.

Renee Marie Simpson will be the guest speaker and expert Paint & Sip facilitator. She will take participants on a creative self-empowerment experience in partnership with the Lyons Den, which will supply deluxe grazing platters and prosecco.

Ticket booking fees will

support children’s charities, thanks to a partnership with Humanitix.

The Paint & Sip event will be held at the Lyons Den Gosford from noon on March 8.

Tickets are now available for $105 with $20 of each ticket purchased donated to The Survivor Hub.

Donations can also be made via https://events.humanitix. com/international-womensday-paint-and-sip

CWA of NSW Tuggerah Lakes branch will sell a selection of goodies

Renee Marie Simpson will be the facilitator

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31.

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52.

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62.

73. Emerged

75. Common

77. Lout

79. Come in

81. Cheat

82. Poke fun at

84. Send (money)

85. Protector

86. One-on-one fight

87. Vulgar

88. Unchanged (2,2)

DOWN

1. Candle string

2. Do penance (for)

3. Barrel

4. Tiny landmass

5. Loved deeply

6. Pictorial symbol

7. Egg centre

8. Metal pen-point

9. About-face (1-4)

10. Biblical garden

12. Valuable possession

14. Coat with pan juices

16. Boughs

19. Unfortunately

22. Interrupt (speaker)

23. Prevents (disaster)

25. Bends to circumstances

26. Compositions

29. Discovered

32. Attach

35. Jumbled letter puzzle

37. Leg/foot joint

38. Perspired

40. Spooky

41. Keen

42. Country, ... Arabia

43. Rescued

44. Massage

47. Film theatres

51. Dealer

52. Planets

53. Reeks

54. Kimono-clad hostess

58. Once more

59. Clairvoyance (1,1,1)

61. Zones

63. Burglar deterrent

64. Builds

65. Leap

66. Valletta is there

68. 100 cm

71. Frog-like animals

72. Started golf match, ... off

74. Upon

76. Powerful need

78. Dues

80. Slippery fish

83. Age

Courtesy of Brad Storey

1. Taylor Swift grew up with her family running what type of business?

2. Mark Schwarzer is Australia’s most capped international male player in which sport, (1993 - 2013)?

3. A cartographer is someone who makes what?

4. What were the first names of Gough Whitlam and Malcom Fraser?

5. Where would you find an animals ‘dewlap’?

International Women’s Day will be celebrated across the Central Coast this year with three major events acknowledging the contribution made by women right across the coast.

In a collaboration between Community & Business Women’s Network and the Central Coast Festival of Women committee, the festival will celebrate and recognise the accomplishments of women in the community.

The festival kicks off with the annual International Women’s Day breakfast at Mingara Recreation Club on March 8.

Central Coast author Sally Jane Smith is set to publish her second novel in April.

Repacking for Greece is a follow-up to Smith’s 2023 book, Unpacking for Greece, which followed the author’s European adventures inspired by her mother’s 1978 travel diary.

Smith once again immerses the reader in Greece’s aweinspiring landscapes and fascinating heritage sites.

She delights in absorbing the country’s rich history and connecting the dots between legend, location and contemporary literature, recounting her experiences in an easy-to-read casual style.

Repacking for Greece travels from an initial flashback

International Women’s Day celebrations

Every year the event is a sellout and guaranteed to be filled with inspiration, connection and celebration.

Now in its seventh year of being hosted by the Community & Business Women’s Network, the 2024 breakfast promises to be an incredible community event.

The annual Central Coast International Women’s Day lunch will be held at the newly renovated Norah Head Sports Club on March 8, between 12 and 2pm.

As in previous years, there will be an inspiring guest speaker, entertainment and a delicious lunch.

The 10th annual International Women’s Day Expo will be held on March 9 at The Entrance Community Precinct

between 10am and 2pm.

The event will be family friendly celebrating the achievements of women on the

Coast and highlighting their participation in all areas of the community including local, national and international

Coast author’s fascinating take on Greece

chapter in 20th-century South Africa to 10 memorable Greek destinations: Athens and Delphi on the mainland; Nafplio, Mycenae, Epidavros and Methana on the Peloponnese Peninsula; and the islands of Hydra, Poros, Kefalonia and Corfu (with a side trip to Albania).

The book takes the reader from a glimpse of Mandela at his release rally to the sound of water splashing onto Greek stone.

The book can be read either as a standalone story, or as a sequel to Unpacking for Greece, which was named by Greek government website Greek News Agenda as Reading Greece Book of the Month in July last year.

Smith said this archaeological site was the setting for a significant moment in her internal journey from middleaged fear to mid-life fulfilment.

“Greece is the star of this story, but the narrative also follows my personal transformation while I was there,” she said.

“My first book was about letting go of personal baggage: regrets about my relationship with my mum, who died when I was in my 20s, and a deep fear of buses following a longago solo travel accident.

Point to Point Transport Commissioner

Travelling in Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles – information sessions

Date: Tuesday 5 March, 2024

Location: Wyong Race Club, 71-73 Howarth Street, Wyong

Do you, or someone you know, travel in a wheelchair accessible taxi? The Point to Point Transport Commissioner invites passengers, carers and anyone involved in booking wheelchair accessible taxi services, to one of two free sessions where you will learn more about how to stay safe while travelling with a wheelchair.

Session 1: 11am – 11:30am

Session 2: 1pm – 1:30pm

Take home information packs and light refreshments will be available for all attendees.

Information stand

In addition to these sessions, we will have an information stand in the Imperial Centre, Gosford. Staff will be available from 10am to 3pm to answer any questions you may have. Drop in anytime.

To secure a spot for one of the sessions, visit pointtopoint.nsw.gov.au/events

Drop ins welcome.

SB1424

Smith closer to her mother’s memory.

In the background stand the three remaining columns of Delphi’s Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, reaching up to dawnlit skies.

“The new release, Repacking for Greece, is about replenishment.

“It is about abandoning anxiety and finding joy.”

Smith has lived on five

women’s issues.

The event will also offer participants a chance to learn about community groups and other opportunities to get involved with stalls showcasing various organisations and businesses.

The aim is to unite not-forprofit women’s organisations, government, educational facilities and local businesses in a community-based initiative to celebrate all women on the Central Coast.

Tickets are essential for the breakfast and lunch events.

Visit www.cbwn.org.au

continents and visited 33 countries, but she gives credit to Greece for turning her into a writer.

She completed a residency at Varuna, the Writers’ House in the Blue Mountains in 2018 and has published articles in Gulf News,TripFiction,Women’s Ink! and Brevity Blog.

Her story of her great-greatgrandmother’s extraordinary life appears in the anthology Itchy Feet: Tales of Travel and Adventure.

Her exploration of travel and grief is included in the Newcastle Short Story Award Anthology 2022.

Repacking for Greece is available at bookstores and online retailers from April 20.

From left: Casey Squires, Shiralee McIntyre, Kylie Ciechanowicz, Arwen Williams, Tracy Dyer, Krystal Lucas, Kerri Bullard , Robyn Cruikshank, Samantha Nicholls at last year’s event

The cover of this latest travelthemed memoir features a very personal item: the scuffed red journal that has brought

Author Sally Jane Smith; The book cover features the author’s mother’s 1978 travel diary

Business & Property

A classroom of the former Wyong Public School classified as local heritage significance is likely to be knocked down because of fire damage.

It is within the Wyong Town Centre Heritage Conservation Area and the oldest surviving building in the town centre.

The building is at 8 Rankens Court, Wyong, where the public school ceased operation many years ago and the site is now used by Wyong Community Centre, the Men’s Shed and other community groups.

Building five, as the classroom is known, is in the western portion of the site and was significantly damaged by fire in May 2023.

Another building directly adjacent was also damaged by fire but to a lesser extent and Central Coast Council will investigate options to avoid complete demolition and reconstruction if possible.

A visual-only structural inspection and assessment of both fire-damaged buildings by GHD concluded that building five was severely damaged and would at least need to be

Old school to be pulled down after fire damage

demolished to floor level.

The GHD report said that fire damage to building six was predominantly in the eastern wall and about 30 per cent of the building and roof cavity damaged, with further investigation required to consider preservation options.

Council engaged Edwards Heritage Consultants for specialist heritage advice on the remediation and management options of the fire-damaged buildings.

“Based upon the extensive damage to building five,

retention and remediation does not appear feasible as the extent of damage would require aggressive intervention of remaining fabric to remove and replace structurally failed fabric including external cladding and internal linings … effectively constituting a near entirely new building,” the consultant’s report said.

“In our opinion, the extent of damage to building five has irreversibly compromised its significance … to justify demolition.”

Edwards Heritage Consultants have recommended

photographic archival recording of building five prior to demolition and interpretation of the building footprint through some form of suitable delineation on the ground, such as tactile pavement.

Plans to demolish building five of the old school does not involve the establishment of a new development.

The 6,978sqm site with frontages to Rankens Court, Church St and Margaret St is within the Wyong Town Centre Heritage Conservation Area – Precinct 1 Wyong Hill Community Area, centred on

Wyong Town Park.

Public structures of heritage significance include the former Wyong Public School which is the oldest surviving building in Wyong Town Centre, the former Court House, and WW1 and WW2 Memorial.

For more information about the demolition refer to the development application (DA/31/2024) on Central Coast Council’s website.

Sue Murray

The old school building to be demolished

Manufacturing, food production and related service businesses from across the Central Coast, Sydney and the Hunter regions will come together at the 2024 Central Coast Industry Festival on March 6-7.

Nearly 60 of the region’s most innovative and successful businesses will showcase their products and technologies at what will be 2024’s largest event held specifically for the manufacturing sector.

Organised by Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC), the festival aims to help local manufacturers and their service providers to ‘Connect to Grow’ by: strengthening local networks; nurturing relationships and connectedness; promoting and facilitating collaboration; and supporting capability building.

CCIC Executive Director Frank Sammut said the organisation’s main function was to connect manufacturers to government, research organisations, to the

The Edwards Family Butchery in the Peninsula Plaza at Woy Woy has changed hands and will soon have a new name.

The popular butchery, now owned by Kayla and Richard Frost, will be known as The Butcher’s Chop.

The business has been in the Edwards family for many decades but was sold in September last year.

Kayla Frost said nothing else would change.

“It will still be the same product, same staff, same service, same everything (except for the signage and

Industry festival set for March

education sector and to other manufacturers.

“These connections lead to solving problems, increasing productivity, building resilience and ultimately growing the manufacturing sector and jobs,” he said.

Global household names such as Mars and Sanitarium will exhibit at the festival alongside many of the Central Coast’s leading manufacturing businesses, including

Baltimore Aircoil, Trendpac, EastCoast Beverages, SpotGo, Herbie’s Spices, 4iD Solutions, Bioaction and more.

The full list of exhibitors will be available on the festival website.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore worldclass products and technologies that have been developed within the Central Coast and adjacent regions.

Displays will include a dedicated room featuring ground-breaking innovations of circular economy businesses that have earned international recognition and awards.

“We are excited to be hosting dynamic manufacturers such as Star Scientific, iQRenew, Arc Ento Tech, 4 Seasons Insulation, Hydrogen at Home and Mil-Tek in our circular economy display room,” Sammut said.

“These businesses will be

showcasing their gamechanging innovations and talking to the opportunities they have gained by being a ‘circular’ business.”

Each day of the festival will feature a series of speaker sessions on topics related to government procurement opportunities, exporting, sustainability, lean manufacturing, the food and beverage industry, online sales, wellbeing and more.

A full list of speaker topics can be found at www. centralcoastindustryfestival. com.au

There will also be: a onestop-shop for government agencies providing on-site advice and assistance through Investment NSW, Services NSW and Regional NSW; and a program of local student visitations to learn about diverse career pathways in manufacturing and food production.

The inaugural Central Coast Industry Festival attracted more than 800 visitors including

New owners for Woy Woy butchery

name) that you have become accustomed to,” she said.

“We have gained much positive feedback about the shop and the handover over the past months, and we thank our community and customers wholeheartedly for their business and support.

“We will have a huge promotional push once the signage is approved by the centre and rolled out, with letterbox drops and online promotions in order to inform our community.

“We thank Marc and JoAnne Edwards wholeheartedly for allowing us to use their family

name whilst we navigated the handover of the business with as little change as possible.”

The Frosts are a small local family.

Richard Frost has been a butcher for more than 2 years Richard, 39, is a country boy whose parents were farmers and he has lived on the Central

Coast since he was 15, and Kayla, 38, is a local teacher who was born and raised on the Coast and whose mum worked as a nurse and a local cleaner.

Richard is extremely skilled in his craft, known locally for his quality of product and individual service, and has been a passionate butcher since the age of 15, when he graduated with distinctions in his field.

They have two children and plan to keep the shop as a family and community-minded store.

“We (intend to) keep the quality service and

business leaders, suppliers, buyers, distributors, service providers, students and the general public over three days last year.

This year CCIC is expecting a higher attendance with representation from other clusters and business groups across Sydney, the Central Coast and Hunter regions.

Admission to the festival is free.

The business community, students and members of the general public are invited to attend.

Visitors can register online via the website or at the door on the day.

The festival will be held at Mingara Recreation Centre, Tumbi Umbi.

On Wednesday, March 6, it will open from 10am-6pm, with speaker sessions from 11am-4pm.

On Thursday, March 7, it will open from 10am-4pm, with speaker sessions from 10am1.30pm.

tradesmanship of the oldschool butchery alive while adding a few modern touches like an online store, click and collect, home delivery and more of a presence on social media,” the Frosts said.

“We are currently building an online store that will offer delivery for the Central Coast area, and our new website has just gone live at thebutcherschop.com.au/

“The gourmet sausages are still a store favourite, and all of the things that our community loved about Edwards are still an integral part of our business.”

Report compares Central Coast housing and rentals

Rent prices on the Central Coast are in the second highest bracket of all regional areas in NSW but according to a new property data report, rentals on the Coast have risen the least compared to other areas in that bracket.

The CoreLogic Regional Market Update released this week is the latest quarterly regional report analysing Australia’s largest significant urban areas (SUAs) other than capital cities.

It examines performance across dwelling values and rentals for the quarterly period up to January 2024.

Central Coast’s median rental value of $620 hovers in the second-highest rental bracket in NSW (the $600s), with the highest rents in the state being Ballina $731, BowralMittagong $710, Byron Bay $1,121 and Sydney $759.

The Central Coast is in company on the $600s scale with Coffs Harbour ($631), Newcastle-Maitland ($611) and Wollongong ($669) and other regional areas range in the $500s and $400s for median rental value.

Although Central Coast is in the second-highest rent bracket, it has recorded the least annual change in rent of only 2.6 per cent, compared to

surrounding regions such as Newcastle-Maitland (3.8 per cent rent rise), Wollongong (3.1 per cent) and Sydney (a

whopping 10.1 per cent annual rise in rents).

Quarterly change in rental on the Central Coast was 2.2 per

cent and the current gross rental yield is 3.4 per cent.

Buyers looking for a home are finding that dwelling values all across Australia are now rising faster in regional markets than in the capitals, with regional values up 1.2 per cent and capitals up 1 per cent over the three months to January.

Regional markets continue to see weaker sales counts than capital city sales over the 12 months to November 2023, and 42 of the 50 largest regional significant urban areas recorded a decline in annual sales compared to the previous year.

On the Central Coast the number of sales to November

2023 was 6,676, representing a 12-month change in sales volume (to November 2023) of 1.8 per cent.

The median property value was $919,461 – a quarterly change of 0.9 per cent and an annual change of 8.6 per cent.

Properties on the Coast, on average, remain among the highest priced in NSW with only Nelson Bay, Ulladulla, Byron Bay, Bowral-Mittagong and Sydney being more expensive, according to the CoreLogic report – and they are being snapped up quickly with a median 33 days on the market.

Sue Murray

Manufacturing, food production and related service businesses will come together

Kayla and Richard Frost bought the business last September

Latest property data for regional housing markets

Mountain bike plan and Winney Bay walk put on hold

Two controversial Central Coast Council projects have been put on the backburner – and will be dealt with after the September local government election puts 15 councillors back in control of strategic decisions on the Coast.

Administrator Rik Hart adopted a staff recommendation at the February 27 meeting to defer any work on a Mountain Biking Plan and any decision on the Winney Bay Cliff Top Walk.

In 2018, the then NSW Premier announced funding for Stage 2 of the Cliff Top Walk.

Council considered the matter on a number of occasions in 2018 and in September 2019 resolved to seek costings and community feedback on options.

The resolution called on Council to accept the funding offered from Infrastructure NSW – with the proviso that Council continued its plan to consult the community to see which proposal it preferred: Plan A, B or C.

But there was a problem with that.

Infrastructure NSW told Council on August 28, 2019, that the funding was for Plan A and some components were nonnegotiable.

It had already backed away from market stalls but still wanted to build a bridge and another lookout.

Councillors were split on going with the state’s plans or reducing the size and impact of the path.

Not long after the Council decision, the NSW Government withdrew the funding.

Despite that, community consultation on the proposed options was undertaken in 2020.

But that feedback – from four years ago – has never been tabled in Council.

“A diversity of opinion about the project was expressed during the 2020 consultation process,” Council says.

“Given this diversity of opinion, and that due to there being no current funding source for the project to proceed, it is proposed that an elected Council would be better placed to consider the outcomes of the community consultation.”

Diversity of opinion also arose with Council’s Mountain Biking Plan.

Back in December 2021, Administrator Hart resolved that Council-under-administration would develop a Central Coast Mountain Biking Plan.

Councillors, before they were sacked, had put off any decisions until a feasibility study was done.

By the time the study came

back for consideration, the Council was under administration.

Interim administrator Dick Persson put it out for public discussion which took place in 2021.

It brought out both supporters and critics.

Hart, who was the interim CEO under Persson, was the Administrator by the time a report on the public exhibition came back to a meeting.

He endorsed the development of a Mountain Biking Plan, adding: “Council recognises the risk of harm to the environment, heritage, and public safety from unauthorised trail construction

on Council land and that education, enforcement and trail closures will be an ongoing responsibility of Council in order to manage risks.

“However improved outcomes for reserve management will be reliant on a proactive approach to increase supply at suitable sites due to limited enforcement resources and the size of the region.”

Development of the plan was to be led by Council staff in collaboration with an “active stakeholder” working group. But that hasn’t happened yet. The plan was to establish a strategic framework and select suitable sites, including

investigating the feasibility of, and issues with, constructing dirt jumps on suitable Council land.

That also hasn’t happened yet.

Hart’s resolution stated that the project was to be considered for funding through Council’s budgetary processes.

The budgetary process “may include applying for external funding from grants, developer contributions or cost or service reductions”.

A Council update tabled at the February 27 meeting explained that work had not progressed due to the “unavailability of funding”.

Staff have put it up for consideration for funding in Council’s 2024-25 draft budget which takes effect from July 1.

Hart makes the final decision on the budget, which is usually adopted in June.

Meanwhile, the tabling of the airport master plan, which was supposed to be adopted by the end of 2023, is now running six months behind schedule.

The updates were presented as part of a new Council item to regularly update the administrator on the status of projects.

Merilyn Vale

Work on a Mountain Biking Plan has been put on hold; No decision will be made on the Winney Bay Cliff Top Walk until after the election

A call to action from CEN

Following a bumper attendance at the launch of its The Central Coast Deserves a Better Plan campaign on February 13, the Community Environment Network (CEN) has released a Call to Action.

It outlines steps for the community to take to make sure Central Coast Council and the NSW Government take urgent action to fix the region’s “broken planning and land use rules”.

“Over 70 residents and ratepayers attended our launch from across the Local Government Area and all were deeply concerned by our evidence of council’s adoption and implementation of planning and land use rules that are atypical from every other council in NSW and putting this region’s amenity, biodiversity, ability to cope with climate change and way of life at risk,” CEN Chair Gary Chestnut said.

“Now we are asking for the community’s help to tell the relevant NSW Ministers and local MPs that this is an urgent and important issue that the Central Coast community wants to see fixed.

“Throughout February and March, we will be encouraging the whole Central Coast

community to take steps in support of our campaign.

“We are welcoming invitations from concerned community groups and residents’ associations to attend their meetings and present our findings and we are asking individuals and groups to phone or email their local NSW state MP and to email senior members of the NSW Government to set out their concerns.”

CEN has produced an online fact sheet and information guide that residents can use to help prepare their own emails, which is available at https:// cen.org.au/resources/latestnews/new-campaign-thecentral-coast-deserves-abetter-plan

“We need as many members of the community as possible to ask Premier Chris Minns if he will look at problems with our council’s main planning instrument – the Central Coast Local Environmental Plan (CCLEP 2022) – and call for the suspension of the council’s strategic planning powers until the CCLEP is fixed via a process that includes extensive community consultation,” Chestnut said.

“The Central Coast community was promised a brand new, comprehensive Local Environmental Plan as an

outcome of council amalgamation almost eight years ago.

“We are urging the community to ask their Premier when they will be given a new, comprehensive LEP.

“The Central Coast Local Government Area has been under administration since October 2020 and all sorts of inappropriate planning decisions have been made without community representation.

“Will the Premier please authorise the Minister for Local Government and Minister for Planning to take steps to stop further inappropriate planning proposals, State Significant Developments and inappropriate uses on conservation land, at least until after the council election in September 2024?

“Will the Premier make a public statement to reassure the Central Coast Community that his government will review the inappropriate interpretations and uses of the Conservation Zones, C2, C3 and C4, on the Central Coast?

“Our online fact sheet and information guide includes similar questions that could be asked via email of Planning Minister Paul Scully.”

Chestnut said more than

$500M worth of development has been derailed because the Central Coast Local Environmental Plan 2022 (CCLEP2022) is not fit for purpose.

CEN is asking Planning Minister Scully to commit to an independent review of the CCLEP and suspend the approval of any C2, C3 and C4 rezonings and clearing of native flora on any development sites that may have been given consent under CCLEP2022 in the interim.

It will also ask Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig to investigate concerns over the Administrator’s failure to address major issues raised by a respected community group in a timely manner.

And it will ask Environment Minister Penny Sharpe to work with the other relevant Ministers to ensure Central Coast Council is using the Conservation Zones (C2, C3 and C4) in an appropriate manner.

Chestnut said he was concerned that habitat for threatened species, environmental corridors and even Aboriginal heritage could have already been lost in the northern parts of the Central Coast LGA as a consequence of the weaknesses of the CCLEP2022.

“We also believe that implementation of a planning proposal to rezone Deferred Matters Lands in the old Gosford Local Government Area could result in the catastrophic and irreversible loss of habitat and heritage and change the whole character of the area,” he said.

“We do not believe this should be allowed to happen until we at least have elected representatives scrutinising the actions of Council.”

Meanwhile Chestnut has accused Council of spreading “false and misleading information” in respect to its planning practices.

Chestnut said a recent comment from Council that it “does not agree with CEN’s characterisation of the NSW planning framework under which Council operates and has sought to clarify CEN’s understanding of the Central Coast Local Environmental Plan and proposed amendments to it a number of times” made him laugh so hard he wept.

“I’m not sure whether Central Coast Council has been watching too much Yes Minister! or reading too many George Orwell books,” he said.

“This is the same disingenuous and arrogant posturing that the Council exhibited to CEN

How to build a successful property portfolio

Author and podcast host

John Pidgeon, of Toowoon Bay, is releasing his first book in March titled Sort Your Property Out & Build Your Future.

In his book, the property coach and co-host of the top-rating my millennial property podcast, Pidgeon, who has built a $6M portfolio, unpacks how successful investors make money and provides a step-bystep guide for starting and building a portfolio.

“Despite higher interest rates, property remained an incredible wealth creation tool – all you need is patience and the right strategy,” he said.

The book provides a practical guide on how to build a financial future through property, drawing on Pidgeon’s 25 years as a sought-after property coach and investor.

It sets out his eight-step strategy covering everything a person needs to know about starting and building a property portfolio, from developing an

investor mindset through to finance options and how to choose the right properties.

“It’s about quality rather than quantity,” he said.

With his accessible, no-BS approach and plenty of realworld investor profiles, Pidgeon shows readers how to understand loans, grants, schemes, and taxes, and use smart strategies for putting together that essential deposit; learn the pros and cons of different property types and the signs that you’re looking at a hotspot; make a successful offer

and secure your ideal property (whether by private sale or auction) and how to utilise advanced strategies like reinvesting, joint ventures, residentialpropertydevelopment, and more.

“Ultimately, you’ll learn how to buy what’s right for you today and how to set smart, realistic goals for tomorrow,” he said.

“No matter if you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, Sort Your Property Out will revolutionise the way you think about property.”

representatives when we were finally given an opportunity to explain our concerns via a digital TEAMS meeting with members of the planning staff.

“I think the Central Coast community has had enough ‘council-splaining’ to last a lifetime.

“If anyone needs a better understanding of the NSW planning framework, it’s the team implementing the current Central Coast Council ‘model’.

“Our suggestion that Council had not fully understood the consequences of applying land uses that may have been acceptable for the flat, wetlandrich topography of the former Wyong Shire to the steep and undulating ridgeways and valleys of the former Gosford City LGA was rebutted in that TEAMS meeting with false and misleading information.

“CEN representatives were gob-smacked when Council’s attendees proclaimed that the former Gosford Council planning instrument (the GLEP2014) had never been accepted by the NSW Department of Planning and was always intended to be ‘interim’.”

Chestnut said GLEP2014 was gazetted and in use, effectively, until 2022.

Pidgeon, who is also the Director of Envisage Property, was recognised as one of the Top 10 Property Specialists in Australian Property Investor Magazine in 2018 and 2019. He has been investing, coaching and teaching people in property for more than 25 years and has a Diploma of Financial Planning under his belt, as well as being a qualified mortgage broker and buyers agent.

There was a bumper attendance at CEN’s ‘Better Plan’ gathering

CEN Chair Gary Chestnut addresses the crowd

John Pidgeon

Kariong records greatest house price rise in region

In the end, only nine properties went under the hammer at the first of two auctions for unpaid rates and charges at Central Coast Council chambers on Tuesday, February 27.

Another four were expected to be auctioned on Wednesday, February 28, when Coast Community News went to press.

When Council originally flagged its intention in April last year to sell properties on which rates or other charges had not been paid for more than five years, over 70 homes were on the list.

That number was whittled down to about 42 by the end of the year when the list of properties officially went on the market.

By auction day, the first tranche

Kariong has been named as the Central Coast suburb which has experienced the greatest rise in house prices over the past year.

Analysis of the latest valuation data, as reported by realestate. com, shows Kariong topping the regional statistics, with a median house price of $906,000, representing a 17.7 per cent rise over the previous year.

While values in many Central Coast suburbs grew over the past year, Kariong was the hotspot – with stronger growth than all other suburbs in the region.

The PropTrack data highlights the suburb with the strongest

growth in values over the past year in each statistical area 4 (SA4) region, which are geographical areas defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics with a minimum population of 100,000.

In dozens of top-performing suburbs, surging house prices have boosted values for property owners but made it harder for house hunters to buy in, especially in markets where demand outweighs supply, realestate.com says.

Interestingly Kariong’s growth was on a par with Sydney’s over-achieving suburbs which jumped in value by 10-20 per cent.

Nine properties sold at Council auction

for properties in the north of the Coast was down to 10 and one more was pulled just before the auction started.

More than 60 people attended the first auction.

An opening offer of $10,000 was not accepted when bidding opened for the first property at 39 Teragalin Dr, Chain Valley Drive.

After the real bidding started at $250,000 the three-bedroom, three-bathroom home was sold for $410,000.

Next came a block of land at 128 Emu Dr San Remo.

Bidding started at $120,000 and went up 21 times until it was sold for $365,000.

It took 24 bids before the hammer fell at $484,250 for land at 20 Mossman Ave, Bateau Bay.

At one stage it looked like the eventual owner had secured the property at $450,000 when the bidding faltered for a time but it picked up and the eventual owner seemed to have it in the bag at $470,000.

Agents checked with Council to see if the property was “on the market” at that price; it was. But another four bids saw the price climb to $484,250 before the hammer finally fell.

Next came 60 Glenning Rd,

Glenning Valley.

The write-up said it was both 8.39 acres and 8.39 hectares.

Someone in the audience noted the discrepancy.

The bidding started at $250,000 and climbed up and up to about $600,000 before it was clarified that the land was actually 8.39 hectares.

“That should immediately double the price,” the auctioneer said.

The property was on the market at $725,000 and eventually – after a total of 39 bids – sold for $780,000.

It still wasn’t 11am yet but about half the room left.

All that was left was three car parking spaces and a couple of slivers of land between properties.

The three car spaces in a block

PropTrack senior economist Eleanor Creagh said the suburbs where values rose the most in each region reflected stretched affordability following the jump in interest rates over the past two years.

“More affordable regions held up better in 2022 when interest rates were first rising, and in 2023 a lot of relatively affordable suburbs maintained this outperformance as interest rates continued to rise and housing affordability remained at multidecade lows,” she said, as reported on realestate.com.

The data uses PropTrack’s automated valuation model (AVM) to determine a suburb’s median property value.

of units at 18 Coral St, The Entrance, were sold to the sole bidder for $2,000 each.

The spaces could only be sold to residents of levels 4, 5 and 6.

The 56m2 sliver of land at 56A Pacific Hwy, Ourimbah was “likely to only have value to the adjacent properties” the marketing material said.

There were only three bids between two people and one conceded the battle at $5,000.

The last auction on Tuesday was for a 12m2 triangle of land at 77 A Swadling St, Long Jetty. Only one person bid.

They increased their original offer of $1,000 to $2,750 and it was accepted.

It was all over on day one by 11.05am.

Merilyn Vale

Council updates hardship and debt recovery policy

Central Coast Council has updated its Hardship and Debt Recovery Policy.

One person responded with criticisms when the policy was put on public exhibition for 60 days recently.

Council said the submission

said the policy did not reflect community expectation, making no reference to the conduct of staff or its contracted debt recovery agents in implementing the policy.

In response, Council said fairness and integrity guide the staff in their decision-making.

The Administrator adopted the policy at the February 27 meeting.

Council will now undertake a procurement process to engage a debt recovery agent.

The new policy will see a reduction in the number of

reminder letters issued before legal action is undertaken.

“This will result in reduced cost to Council, and consequently the ratepayer or customer, but more importantly it will also ensure that overdue amounts are addressed in a shorter

timeframe,” Council said.

“The streamlined process will provide the opportunity for ratepayers and other debtors to engage with Council from an early stage to discuss a suitable way forward to resolve the outstanding amounts.”

The new policy was adopted on the same day that Council held the first of two public auctions of properties for sale for unpaid rates and other charges that had accumulated over five or more years.

Merilyn Vale

An aerial view of Kariong. Photo: Airviewonline

Land at 20 Mossman Ave, Bateau Bay, sold for $484,250

CHERALYN DARCEY’S DOWN IN THE GARDEN:

Autumn Planning

This year we are experiencing a very hot end to summer but thought still needs to be given to getting our gardens ready for the cooler days ahead.

Autumn planting plans should be held off a little yet as cold weather crops are not going to cope with these heat spikes we are experiencing.

If you really can’t wait to get started, try providing additional protection by starting seeds off in cooler shaded positions.

Following are a big bunch of tips to get your garden and you ready for the chill that’s on its way.

Seed Collection

This is time of harvest but also of seed collection.

As summer flowering plants require dead heading, take the opportunity to save those seeds by leaving some on the plant to develop.

Other seeds can be removed from fruits and vegetables by soaking in water to remove the pulp for a few days.

Seeds should them be

naturally dried and placed into paper envelops, in airtight containers and then best stored under refrigeration.

General Gardening

Spring annuals can also be direct sown along with perennial plants, trees and shrubs.

Buy your spring flowering bulbs now in preparation for April planting.

Popular and new varieties sell out quickly so don’t be slow about it!

Perennial flowering plants like lavender and daisies and evergreen hedges such as viburnum should be pruned now, and clumping perennials including agapanthus and clivia, can be divided and replanted.

Prune those climbing and rambling roses now too.

Hibiscus should be in flower and a feed of a rose fertiliser will keep them blossoming for the next couple of months.

It’s a great time to transplant evergreen shrubs that have either outgrown their welcome or would do better in a different spot.

Vegetable Garden

The vegetable garden needs to be prepared for winter by clearing away old vegetation and digging over beds.

Summer crops need to be harvested and plants pulled up to make way for winter, but because the weather is unseasonably warm this year, take the time to really rest and rejuvenate hard-working veggie beds.

To kill off weeds in the soil, cover with thick layers of cardboard for a couple to few weeks.

Go over your herb garden and be ruthless.

Many of our culinary herbs only last a year or two so pull up those that are getting past their use-by date and replace with fresh, health young plants.

It’s time to plant citrus trees and treat any established citrus for scale.

Are you an artichoke grower?

Have a look at your plants as it may be time to divide and transplant suckers to increase your crop.

WHAT’S ON FOR PLANT LOVERS

List your event for free – gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

Central Coast Cactus & Succulent Club Autumn Sale

Lawn Work

Now is a good time to create a new lawn by laying turf or sowing lawn seed.

In established lawns, remove dead grass so that air, water and nutrients get to the roots.

This is done via scarification (raking out dead matter) and aeration which is achieved by piecing small holes into your lawn with a garden fork.

Your lawn needs a good feed now as well to strengthen it for the coming winter and slowing of growth ahead.

While there are many good commercial products out there, here is an organic homemade one you might like to try: Lawn Feed – (for an average sized suburban block).

Ingredients: a can or stubbie of beer, 1 cup of ammonia, 1 cup of baby shampoo (not antibacterial).

Mix together outside to provide ventilation for yourself.

Spray lightly and evenly over your lawn now and in a fortnight.

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 by scanning the QR code or visiting www.facebook.com/cccscInc

Central Coast Fungal Wizardry for Beginners Workshops

9:00 am – 5:00 pm (morning/afternoon sessions) Sunday 3rd March

Gosford Regional Gallery - Studio 2, 36 Webb St, East Gosford

Get ready! The Funguy of Urban Kulture (Aaron) is returning to Australia to host the 2024 East Coast Workshop Tour and deliver his 2 x beginner hands on mushroom cultivation workshops in person. Join Aaron for either the ‘5 Minute Mushroom Kit’ (Level 1) or the ‘5 Minute Grain Spawn’ (Level 2) or make the most of the value deal and attend both! Both workshops include take home kits.

For tickets and more info scan QR code or visit: www.urbankulture.co/event-details/central-coast-fungal-wizardry-for-beginners-workshops

Autumn Everlasting Flower Wreath Workshop

10am – 1pm, Sunday 17th March. House of Ellery, The Chapman Building, Alison Road, Wyong Come and create a stunning Autumn preserved and dry flower wreath with us. We will use dried leaves, fern, corokia, cherry blossom, statice, everlasting daisies and so much more, let your imagination run wild for a few hours and take some time for you. All workshop materials, tea/coffee/ hot chocolate and biscuits are provided on the day. If you have certain dietary requirements, please feel free to bring your own tea/coffee and snacks, there are also several cafes in the area. For more information scan the QR code or visit www.houseofellery.com.au

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 cheralyn.darcey

Pests & Diseases

Powdery mildew looks like white or grey dust on your plants.

With all the rain and the heat, we have been experiencing recently, powdery mildew is a huge issue so to treat, remove effected leaves and to prevent try this organic mixture: Milky Powdery Mildew DefenderInto a spray pump bottle add 40% milk to 60% water.

Shake well and then lightly spray onto plants as a preventative.

It can be sprayed on effected plants and will help somewhat.

This time of the year is also caterpillar time so pick off, try an organic product such as Yates Caterpillar Killer or provide a sacrificial border crop to send the caterpillars elsewhere.

Soft lettuce is ideal.

Sweet Peas

With St Patrick’s Day coming up on 17th March, it indicated that it’s time to plant your Sweet Peas, Lathyrus odoratus, in Australia.

Why this day?

Well, it’s early Autumn and seasonally that’s when Sweet Peas are best planted here.

The date is just a way to ensure we remember to do it.

Sweet Peas need a protected position with at least six hours of sun every day along with very good drainage.

Get your soil ready by improving it with well-rotted cow manure and compost.

Check the pH level as well because Sweet Peas do prefer soil slightly on acidic side.

If needed add dolomite or lime to get it to between pH 6.0 – 7.5.

Watch when feeding your Sweet Peas as they will not produce many flowers if your fertiliser is high in nitrogen.

Look out for potassium flower encouraging mixes instead.

Provide the plants with a trellis to grow upon and keep soil moist with balanced watering and mulch like sugarcane or pea-straw.

Flowers will start appearing from 12 weeks after sowing, depending on type.

To encourage repeat flowering, pick often.

THIS WEEK’S GARDENING GUIDE

This week you could plant: culinary herbs, beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, carrot, cauliflower, chicory, cress, endive, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mustard, onions, parsnips, peas, radishes, salsify, shallots, silverbeet, spinach, spring onions, swedes, turnips, ageratum, alyssum, calendula, candytuft, carnation, cineraria, columbine, coneflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, larkspur, linaria, lobelia, nemesia, nigella, pansy, polyanthus, poppy, primula, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower

New public preschools at Umina Beach and Tuggerawong will be two of 100 to be delivered by the NSW Government over the next four years, with 49 of them in regional and rural communities.

The new preschools will be located in the grounds of Umina Beach Public School and Tuggerawong Public School. Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said it was a “fantastic announcement” for the parents of the Gosford electorate.

“I recently ran an early childhood education survey, which heard from parents across the Coast who are struggling to access early childhood education and preschool, often waiting extended periods on multiple waitlists,” she said.

“It is clear that parents are crying out for spaces on the southern end of the Central Coast.

“Following this survey, I met

with Deputy Premier and Minister for Early Childhood Education, Prue Car, who shared my concerns with the availability of spaces on the southern end of the Coast.

“Early childhood education and preschool play a fundamental role in the development of our little learners, while allowing parents the economic freedom of returning to work.

Two new public preschools for Coast Marching for melanoma

“I have heard far too often that parents, particularly mothers, are unable to return to work because they don’t have a place for their little one in early childhood education.

“This is unacceptable.

“This announcement highlights that the NSW Government is listening.

“We are focused on delivering outcomes for our communities, and this is a significant step in

the right direction for providing preschool places in our community.”

Member for Wyong David Harris welcomed news of a preschool at Tuggerawong.

“Locally there is a heavy demand in preschool places and having a public preschool will provide more opportunities for working parents,” he said.

Co-locating public preschools with existing schools will

ensure children are ready for kindergarten and help busy working families with cost-ofliving pressures, and avoid the double drop off, making the transition to school as seamless as possible, the Government said.

Sites were selected by a NSW Department of Education Panel, overseen by an independent chair and probity advisor, based on rigorous

assessment criteria which considered multiple factors, including: educational need; child development and socioeconomic data; projected preschool demand; infrastructure feasibility; and insights gained through consultation with industry and stakeholders.

The NSW Government has also committed up to $29.4M to expand the number of early childhood workers in NSW through a scholarship program, which has seen a record number of applications.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the government understood the value of public education and believed that equity in education started in the early years.

“Postcodes should not act as a barrier to accessing the best start in life and every child should have access to high quality resources from a young age, including having access to preschool,” she said.

Melanoma March events will be held across the country for the 13th year to raise awareness and support Melanoma Institute Australia’s lifesaving research, with the Central Coast march set for Sunday, March 3.

Melanoma InstituteAustralia’s (MIA) Co-Medical Directors and

2024 Australians of the Year, Professor Georgina Long and Professor Richard Scolyer, are urging Australians to join the campaign to raise vital research funds.

Long and Scolyer were named Australians of the Year for revolutionising melanoma treatment and their advocacy for sun-safe behaviour.

During their emotional acceptance speech they called for urgent action to stop the glamourisation of tanning.

“There is nothing healthy about a tan – nothing,” Long said.

“Our bronzed Aussie culture is actually killing us.

“So we call on advertisers

and social media influencers to stop glamourising tanning, or using it to sell or entertain.”

MIA’s Melanoma March Central Coast will be held from 9-11am on Sunday, March 3, at Saltwater Creek Reserve, Long Jetty.

Nadine Martin will be marching in honour of her older sister Leah Martin who was

diagnosed with advanced melanoma in 2013 and passed away in 2017 at the age of 29.

“It is so important we continue to raise awareness about melanoma and the fact it isn’t just an old person’s disease,” she said.

“Australians need to be aware of their skin health and look for changes.

“If you see a change, don’t put it off; go and get it checked.

“I am marching for Leah and all the people who are going through treatments and fighting for their lives at the hands of this insidious disease.”

Register for the Central Coast march or donate at central coast.melanomamarch.org.au

Major boost for Umina Beach school

• Package up to $96K

• Location – Gosford

• x1 Ongoing and x1 Temporary until 30 June 2025

We are looking for the successful candidate to be undertaking or have completed tertiary legal studies or have previous experience as a paralegal. You will deliver work of a high quality within the timeframes imposed by the courts or the solicitors you are assisting. You will be focussed on the detail and proficient in all aspects of legal research, including the ability to locate relevant cases and legislation.

Apply Online: iworkfor.nsw.gov.au

Jobs NSW Ref. No. 0000AGSJ

Closing Date: Sunday 10 March, 11:59pm

Enquiries: Pia Birac on 1800 979 529 or pia.birac@legalaid.nsw.gov.au

Artwork: © Luke Penrith

LP2006

Umina Beach Public School has received $20,000 from the Federal Labor Government’s Stronger Communities Program to build a new outdoor barbecue kitchen and yarn up space.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the project would provide a tremendous outdoor barbecue and learning area for the whole community to use.

“The students I met with were very excited about the yarn up space and all the stories that will be passed on there,” he said.

Umina Beach Public School P&C Vice President Nellie Feeney said there was much excitement about the grant.

“The project will involve the installation of a large barbecue station, ample bench space and outdoor seating and tables to provide maximum potential for school and community involvement in an inviting and

inclusive space,” she said.

“The space will provide the opportunity for our students, and our wider community, to come together to participate in the preparation of food while gathering together to learn and share.

“It will be a place for our school community to create, connect and give back.”

Aboriginal Education resource teacher Julia Morgan said the

space will be alongside the school’s Ngayaran room (Darkinjung for “Meeting Place”), where Aboriginal students and families are supported.

“The extension of this room with an outdoor space will enable our students to be connected to country and for families to come together with food to connect with elders and establish a feeling of belonging

with each other as a mob,” she said.

The Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Program provides not-forprofit organisations with grant funding of $2,500 to $25,000 for small capital projects that deliver social benefits for local communities.

For more information, contact 4322 2400 or email Gordon. Reid.MP@aph.gov.au

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid with students, P&C members and teachers at Umina Beach Public School

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and members of the community welcome the announcement at Umina Beach Public School; The Coast’s second preschool will be at Tuggerawong

Paralegal – Clerk Grade 3/4 Family Law – Multiple Vacancies

Living Lab to support healthy ageing at home

A collaborative workshop has marked the launch of the first Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab – an innovative, reallife experimentation hub designed to support healthy ageing at home for generations to come.

The Living Lab, a collaboration between Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) and the University of Newcastle, will see older people work alongside academic institutions, healthcare and aged-care providers and businesses to identify challenges, needs and practical solutions to enhance their lives at home.

CCLHD Chief Executive Scott McLachlan said the Living Lab would offer solutions for holistic care and smart technology solutions that would support healthy ageing for generations to come.

“We are committed to providing health care that helps our older people to live happy, healthy and long lives on the Central Coast, in their own communities and homes,” he said.

“The Central Coast has one of the largest populations of older people in NSW, with more than one quarter of

residents aged 60 or over.

“As our population ages, there is a pressing need to deliver innovative health solutions that help people maintain satisfying lives at home and support choice.”

Living labs are real-life experimentation hubs that see community members and

stakeholders from a range of professions and lived experiences work together to identify challenges faced by older people and develop practical solutions.

Older people from the Central Coast community will provide real-time insight into challenges they face, from

166 more nurses and midwives for Coast

More than 166 graduate nurses and midwives will start work in Central Coast hospitals this year, providing a significant boost to local health services.

They will be among more than 3,400 graduates statewide.

The graduates will gain invaluable experience across a broad range of clinical settings, as well as in community healthcare.

The announcement comes as the NSW Government is undertaking an ambitious plan to strengthen the state’s health workforce.

Actions include implementing safe staffing levels of nurses and midwives beginning in emergency departments, making permanent 1,112 nursing roles temporarily funded by the former government, as well as abolishing the wages cap, delivering record pay increases for nurses, paramedics and other health workers and salary packaging.

The State Government also plans to start rolling out 500 additional paramedics in

regional, rural and remote communities, increasing the rural health workforce incentive scheme package from $10,000 to up to $20,000 for recruitment to hardest to fill roles, and introducing tertiary health study subsidies.

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said it was great to see so many young graduates wanting to serve the health needs of the Coast.

“There is a desperate need to increase the workforce in health across the Coast to fill

staff shortages – this is the NSW Labor Government getting on with the job,” he said.

“More than 166 graduate nurses and midwives will start work in Central Coast hospitals this year, providing a significant boost to local health services.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park said NSW hasdone of the best health systems in the world.

“Throughout their career I am determined to give these new nurses and midwives the support they need to make it even better,” he said.

feeling connected to their communities to accessing healthcare, maintaining independence and preventative solutions for maintaining good physical and mental health.

University of Newcastle ViceChancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said the Central Coast’s focus on integrated

healthcare made it the ideal location to test solutions that helped residents live satisfying, engaged and independent lives at home.

“What makes a Living Lab unique is that it puts the endusers in this case, older people, at the centre of the process, from defining challenges to

PUBLIC NOTICE

working together on possible solutions and it takes place in real-life communities and settings,” he said.

“The Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab will include a range of activities, from brainstorming sessions to community workshops to opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase and pitch ideas.

“This dynamic approach creates a new way to explore the challenges encountered by older individuals who want to live at home and presents an opportunity to co-create innovative solutions developed with and for our older citizens.”

The Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab will be based at the Central Coast Research Institute in Gosford’s Health and Education Precinct, with funding from Investment NSW.

It will test and deliver solutions to four core challenges our older people face: community connectivity, technologyenabled homes, care at home and preventative technology.

For more information, visit: www.ccll.com.au

Notification of project proposal and registration of interest under Heritage NSW Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents 2010 (Stage 1) – Proposed development at 100-1690 Thompson Vale Road, Doyalson McCardle Cultural Heritage (MCH) have been engaged by ADW Johnson on behalf of Scape Properties (PO BOX 1167 Terrigal NSW 2260) to prepare an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (ACHA) and Section 90 Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) application, if required, for the proposed development at 200-1690 Thompson Vale Road, Doyalson (Lot 762 DP746526, Lot 78 DP 755243, Lots 32, 31, and 33 DP 586913). The purpose of community consultation with Aboriginal people is to assist the proposed applicant in the preparation of the AHIP application if required and to assist Heritage NSW, Department of Planning and Environment in their consideration and determination of the application should an AHIP be required.

In compliance with the Heritage NSW policy - Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents 2010, MCH would like to extend an invitation to Aboriginal people who hold cultural knowledge relevant to the proposed project area and who can determine the significance of Aboriginal object(s) and/or place(s) in the area of the proposed project to register an interest in the consultation process for this project.

Written registrations must be forward to MCH (P.O. Box 166 Adamstown, NSW, 2289; penny@mcheritage.com.au no later than C.O.B. (Thursday 14th March 2024).

All registered parties will then be contacted to discuss the project in compliance with Heritage NSW policy. If you register your interest in this project, please also nominate your preferred option to receive the initial information. You may wish to attend a non-paid meeting and receive an information pack, or receive an information packet through the mail or e-mail.

Any parties who register are advised that, unless otherwise requested, their details will be forward to Heritage NSW and the relevant LALC within 28 days of the closing date of registration and in compliance with Heritage NSW policy.

Stakeholders at the collaborative workshop

The graduates will work across a variety of clinical settings

Erina Archery Club on the move

The Erina Archery Club is set to relocate to Peats Ridge after 41 years of being based at Erina Leagues Club.

With the leagues club expansion leading to a need to move to a new venue, a spokesperson for the archery club expressed its gratitude for the free use of the leagues club land over four decades.

Initially named Gosford Archery Club, the club formed in the early 1960s and after a few relocations found a home adjacent Erina Leagues Club.

“Today, with the support and generosity of Central Coast Council and the tireless amount of work by the archery members and committee, we have finally found a home at Fred Pinkstone Oval, located at Peats Ridge,” spokesperson

Frank Farrugia said.

“With a tremendous amount of work by both the committee and members, we have finally dismantled the archery club, and moved the three shipping containers to Peats Ridge.

“Archery is a weird and wonderful sport that has been ongoing for thousands of years.

“At the club the archers’ ages range from the early teens to the mid-80s and some are so proficient that they could hit a tennis ball at 70m while others couldn’t hit a barn at 20m.

“But like so many clubs enjoying sport in the Erina area, it is the fun and camaraderie that we thrive on.”

Archery is divided into three basic divisions; compound, recurve and longbows.

“I belong to the historic

Mariners men snatch Victory

FOOTBALL

The battle for the ISZUUTE A-league championships was well and truly on show on Sunday evening, February 25, at AAMI Park in Melbourne as the Central Coast Mariners snatched a 1-0 victory from Melbourne Victory.

Securing the victory saw the Mariners close the gap to just three points behind A-League leaders Wellington Phoenix, thanks to a pivotal moment when Angel Torres’ masterful

free-kick led to an own goal early in the second half.

The dramatic match saw the field reduced to 10 against 9 as the Mariners’ Ronald Barcellos was sent off in the closing moments, alongside Roderick Miranda and Jordi Valadon for the opposition.

Amid these challenges, Mark Jackson strategically rotated his squad, introducing fresh legs in response to recent suspensions and a tight game schedule, with Nathan Paull, Bradley Tapp, Torres, and Ryan Edmondson

stepping in to fill the gaps.

This win adds a significant chapter to the Mariners’ season’s narrative.

Meanwhile, in a heartstopping AFC Cup match in Campbelltown on February 22, the Mariners clinched a last-minute victory, showcasing their creativity and flair.

The initial half concluded without any goals, highlighted by Miguel Di Pizio’s attempt being thwarted by MacArthur keeper Matthew Jurman’s block.

longbowers (Robin Hood type bows) and our band of men look forward to our shoot every Saturday morning,” Farrugia said.

“There are about 164 sporting areas on the Central Coast which can cater for more than 20 different types of sport and archery is one just of them.

“But I can safely say that not only is archery the oldest of all sports but when the archer releases his/her arrow the satisfaction enjoyed is definitely outstanding.

“It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to our field at Erina and we look forward to enjoying our new home at Peats Ridge.”

Anyone interested in joining can sign up for a “newbie” class at erinaarcheryclub.com. au, with gear provided for a fee.

Brazilian talents Mikael Doka and Ronald Barcellos turned the game around in the second half with their decisive goals, continuing their streak as key contributors to the team’s success.

The win not only keeps the Mariners’ AFC Cup dreams alive, booking them a trip to India next month, but also highlights their remarkable fighting spirit and the important impact of their international players on the team’s culture and performance.

Cricket semi-finals this weekend

The Central Coast Cricket competition heads into its finals rounds this coming weekend, with Round 9 concluding on February 24.

At the end of the final round of the Men’s First Grade Two Day Competition the table saw The Entrance on top, closely followed by Terrigal Matcham, Northern Power and Kincumber Avoca.

In the final round, The Entrance took a massive win from Brisbane Water to secure its top berth on the table.

Top scorer of the match was The Entrance skipper Broc Hardy, out on 310, and the pick of the bowlers was Lochie Allison, 5/30 off seven.

The Entrance bowled Brisbane Water out on 84 and went back in to put on an additional 80 runs giving them the outright win.

Terrigal Matcham defeated Warnervale with a reverse outright.

Warnervale’s Kaleb Daley top scored the match out on 67 and the bowler of the match was Warnervale’s Daniel Hill who took 9/73 off 29.4 combined over both innings.

Terrigal Matcham finished on 184 with Warnervale falling short with 171.

Northern Power defeated Narara Wyoming in an outright, putting 147 on the board after Narara Wyoming put up 146.

Northern Power’s Joshua Abel top scored on 54.

Hayden Murphy was the best bowler finishing on 7/22 off 17.5 over the two days.

Kincumber Avoca defeated Lisarow Ourimbah at Erina Oval.

With Lisarow Ourimbah all out on 78, Kincumber Avoca went in to finish on 212.

Michael Williams top scored on 100 closely followed by Alex Cutting on 94.

Bailey Lidgard took 4/7 off 9.4 with five maidens.

Southern Spirit and Wyong took a draw with Jack Harris top scoring on 55 and Lachlan Cork and Hunter Tomlinson taking three wickets each.

The semi-finals will be held on March 2-3, with The Entrance taking on Terrigal Matcham at Baker Park and Northern Power fronting up against Kincumber Avoca at Jubilee Park.

Play gets underway both days at 12.30pm.

The preliminary finals will take place on March 9-10 and the grand final on March 15 and 17

Archers from the longbowers division

The Mariners celebrate the goal scored early in the second half

The preliminary finals will take place on March 9-10

FOOTBALL

Central Coast Mariners Chief Executive Officer Shaun Mielekamp has announced he will step down from his position following almost nine years of dedicated service to the club.

Mielekamp joined the Mariners in May 2015, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous role as General Manager of Commercial and Consumer Products at rival club the Western Sydney Wanderers.

Mariners Chairman Richard Peil expressed his thanks on behalf of the advisory Board for Mielekamp’s significant contribution to the club’s growth and development over the years.

“In my opinion, the Central Coast community have Shaun to

Mariners CEO steps down

thank for their beloved Mariners still being around,” he said.

“I honestly don’t believe it would still exist without Shaun’s dedication and skill set over the past nine seasons.

“On top of this, he is genuinely one of the nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of working with.

“He will be sorely missed.”

Mielekamp said he was honoured to have played his part in the history of the club.

“I am incredibly proud of the achievements that have been made over the past nine seasons where I have seen all the highs and lows that sport has to offer,” he said.

“I have achieved all I can for the club.

“This decision will help the club take the next step forward and reach new heights.

“Whilst this is a difficult time for me, I make this call with genuinely best of intentions for the club and the community at heart.

“Leaving the club when things are going so well was always

something that I wanted to do.

“We are now playing in Asia again, we now have a women’s team that we are all proud of and most of all we have a club that has showed Australian Football just how important the Central

Coast Mariners are and what we stand for.

“Winning the championship was special; and so was every win and every family photo that happened.

“I would like to pay special thanks to the Chairman Richard Peil and Mike Charlesworth, who I am extremely grateful for; without them our club would never have survived.

“Most of all I want to thank everyone in our Mariners family for your support over the years; members, sponsors, coaches, administration staff and players who have helped us build such an amazing culture.

“Anything is possible; we won’t back down and we believe.

“I look forward to seeing you all in Our Paradise cheering on the team from my new lucky

seats next to my family.”

Following Mielekamp’s decision, the Board confirmed that Director and Chairman Richard Peil will be temporarily stepping in to the daily operations of the business as acting CEO for the time being, while the club undertakes a search for a new CEO.

Mielekamp will continue to work closely with Peil on the Mariners Advisory Board for the next 12 months in a paid capacity.

Peil will assume the transitional responsibilities immediately.

The Central Coast Mariners extend their sincere appreciation to Shaun Mielekamp for his dedication and leadership and look forward to the continued growth and success of the club.

come the 2028 Olympics we could well be calling it from the rooftops.

And if the recent Brisbane Water Secondary College’s swim carnival is anything to go by, the Olympics could certainly be on the cards for the 17-yearold from Umina.

The morning of the swim carnival Falconer told his mum Kylie Lowe he would break every record of every swim he entered.

And he did.

Falconer swam in 10 events and broke the record in all 10

including 50m freestyle (24:87s); 100m freestyle (55:07s); 200m freestyle (2m:03s); 50m breaststroke (34:79s); 100m breaststroke (1m:22s); 50m backstroke (29:54s); 100m backstroke (1m:03s); 50m butterfly (27:59s); 200m medley (2m:20s) and 4x50m freestyle relay (1m:56s).

One record, the 50m breaststroke, was set in 2006 while Falconer broke another, the 50m butterfly, by 300th of a second.

“That’s the one I am most proud of,” Lowe said. “Jacob is not a butterflyer.”

Lowe has much to be proud of as her son has revelled in his passion for swimming since he was a small child when his mum decided he and his sister Ebony needed learn-to-swim classes.

“Because of where we live they needed to learn how to swim, but I always said that by the time they got to squad it was up to them if they wanted to keep going.”

Falconer joined Woy Woy Swim Club at 10 years of age where he has been coached by Graham Carroll ever since.

He has excelled at all levels of competitive swimming including making the National

All Schools meet last year swimming against the very best swimmers in Australia.

“It’s very exciting; he has big dreams,” Lowe said.

“He won’t be ready for Paris, but the 2028 games are definitely on his radar.”

Falconer is also a patrolling member of Ocean Beach Surf Club and teaches swimming at the local pool.

“He has such a passion for swimming,” Lowe said.

“The swim community is so supportive, I love it and the Coast community.”

Denice Barnes Jacob Falconer broke 10 records in 10 swim events

Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp is stepping down

ParaGolfer makes golfing more accessible

There are only five ParaGolfers available for public use in NSW – and one of them is at Gosford Golf Club.

The club is leading the region in making golf an all-inclusive and accessible sport as its allterrain ParaGolfer raises the user into a standing position to allow a more conventional golf swing, and its low-pressure tyres and wide stance allow it to be used in all areas of the golf course (including greens and appropriately designed bunkers).

Club Captain Bob Thomas

said the ParaGolfer was regularly used by people with high-level spinal cord injuries but could also be used by anyone with mobility or stability issues.

“A few months ago I was walking to the first tee and a young lady was riding up the path on a ParaGolfer,” he said.

“She had a big smile on her face after spending time on the course.”

Meg McIntyre, who travels to Gosford Golf Course from Port Macquarie for lessons in the ParaGolfer, said being able to play golf again was wonderful.

“Finding something to do, where I can actually improve, is also very exciting,” she said.

McIntyre was a regular golfer before MS made it hard for her to continue about five years ago.

“Since my mobility has deteriorated, my world has shrunk significantly,” she said.

“Returning to golf with the ParaGolfer has enabled me to get back amongst people, to rekindle old friendships, to have a laugh, to enjoy nature and to be part of normal life.

“I’m feeling the love!”

Another ParaGolfer at Gosford Golf Club, Jeannie Mansour, said she enjoyed just getting out on the course.

“I really enjoy the chance to get out and have a go,” she said.

“I’m not up to a game (even nine holes) just yet, although we currently try a couple of holes which is a start.

“I started late in 2018 and then in 2019 COVID arrived.

“That meant quite a break, as at first the courses were closed, and there were rules about social distancing and the like

which made using the ParaGolfer impossible.

“Then when we restarted there would be plenty of rain on the days I was to come; I’m a rain magnet.”

The ParaGolfer offers golfers with disabilities the opportunity to play golf on a regular basis.

“It may well sound silly, but it allows me to be able to swing to hit the ball without falling,” Mansour said.

“I can also hit straight (mostly), as when you’re strapped in, there is no body movement to worry about.”

Gosford’s PGA Professional staff encourage any golfers with disabilities to come and give it a try.

“Golf is an excellent sport and we are so pleased that the ParaGolfer makes it possible for people of all abilities to play,” Head Professional and Operations Manager Tom Ballard said.

“We offer a full range of coaching on the ParaGolfer; one-on-one coaching is a great way to get started on the course.”

Club Operations Manager and PGA Professional Tom Ballard gives Meg McIntyre some tips on how to use the ParaGolfer