Coast Community News #438

An energy rebate for every household, tax cuts for all and an increase in Commonwealth rent assistance are the big takeaways from this week’s Federal Budget for Central Coast residents.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said the region was set to benefit through targeted cost-of-living relief that would help ease price pressures on singles, students, families,

pensioners and self-funded retirees.

Cost-of-living measures announced in the Budget, handed down on Tuesday night, May 14, include $300 energy rebates for every household, $325 energy rebates for small businesses, and 29 new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics.

Those who receive quarterly power bills will see a credit of $75

each of their

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Does this budget do enough?

No-one is going to knock back a rebate of $300 on their energy bills, as announced in Tuesday night’s Federal Budget.

But one has to wonder if that, coupled with an increase in rent assistance for lowincome earners and the previously announced tax cuts for all wage earners, will be enough to appease suffering Central Coast residents weighed down by rising costs at every turn.

and $325 rebate for small businesses a “band aid on a bullet wound”, announced to appease voters for the Government’s failure so far to honour its pre-election promise of a $275 reduction in energy bills.

battling a brutal housing market.

sure to aggravate the Central Coast’s vast aged population.

With the next Federal Election due to be held next year, some have described the Budget’s tax cuts, rent assistance increases and energy rebates as vote sweeteners, with speculation Prime Minister Anthony Albanese could call an early election.

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The Budget has been talkedup by the Government for its cost-of-living measures, but Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor has labelled the $300 energy rebate for residents

Some have labelled a 12-month ACCC inquiry into supermarkets an inadequate move to combat rising grocery costs and Everybody’s Home, the national campaign to attack the housing crisis, says the Budget will keep pushing up housing costs for Australians who are already

The organisation says budget measures are nowhere near enough to shift the dial on the housing crisis, which has seen constant rental vacancy rates of about one per cent on the Central Coast. It says a rent assistance increase of 10 per cent for Centrelink recipients will provide some short-term relief but is not a lasting fix.

The Retirement Living Council says the Budget has forgotten about a large cohort of older people and the challenges associated with age-friendly accommodation and care, a situation which is

Killarney Vale family

A Central Coast family living with disability can now experience the joys of cycling together thanks to Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation and Freedom Solutions.

Killarney Vale mum, Meika Standish, said her family was overjoyed to receive new bicycles, giving them the opportunity to learn a new skill that had been out of reach up until now.

“This is such a dream come true for us and means we can enjoy getting out in the fresh air and sunshine to make special memories together as a family,” she said.

“Watching my sons Jett and Mack unwrap their incredible new bikes was so exciting and emotional.

“Freedom Solutions has done an amazing job at designing bicycles that support both of my boys’ individual needs so that they have the opportunity to learn to ride.”

Charitable organisation Freedom Solutions designs, builds and modifies custom equipment for people living

with disability of all ages throughout NSW and Victoria.

General Manager Mathew Williams said everyone deserved the chance to ride a bike.

“At Freedom Solutions, we believe that everyone should have the chance to experience the thrill and joy of riding a bike, which is why we feel it is so important to make this possible

for people living with disability,” he said.

“Riding a bike is a common childhood milestone.

“A disability can make it difficult or impossible to ride a standard bike, meaning missed opportunities for socialisation with friends as well as the many physical benefits that riding a bike can bring.

Will the cost-of-living relief measures in this Budget be enough to encourage struggling Coasties to return their three sitting Federal Labor MPs at the 2025 election? Only time will tell.

“We were very fortunate to receive funding from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation last year to gift customised bikes and trikes to children living with disability in the Hunter and Central Coast, enabling them the opportunity to experience the joy of freedom on wheels.”

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Partnerships Specialist Lanah Maruff said learning to ride a bike brought with it a real sense of independence, resilience, social connection and confidence.

“We are thrilled to help make this possible for Meika and her boys, who are bound to make the most of their new bikes,” she said.

“The Foundation serves to improve the health and wellbeing of the community by supporting organisations just like Freedom Solutions, who do such amazing work in delivering bespoke solutions to suit individuals and their needs.”

For more information about Freedom Solutions go to https://freedomsolutions.org. au

Terry Collins, Editor

Mack, Meika and Jett Standish with the new bikes

From page 1

This is on top of already announced measures including changes to student debt, paid placements for teachers, nurses midwives and social workers, and superannuation paid in parental leave.

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

“Our Budget is continuing our record of responsible fiscal management and helping ease the cost of living for all Australians without adding to inflation, including here on the Central Coast,” Reid said.

“Through our targeted cost of living measures, people living on the Central Coast will benefit from … energy rebates … on top of our already announced tax cuts for every taxpayer that will come into effect from July 1 this year.

“All 13.6 million taxpayers will receive a tax cut with 135,000 taxpayers on the Central Coast benefiting.

“The Federal Budget also mapped out our government’s vision to support Australian jobs and manufacturing through our Future Made in Australia policy.

“We will continue to do what we responsibly can to help people living on the Central Coast manage cost-of-living pressures.

“There is more work to do to ensure we tackle inflation, and address price pressures.”

Member for Dobell Emma

The Pearl Beach Memorial Hall has been upgraded to serve as a place of refuge in the advent of a bushfire.

Pearl Beach Progress Association received $91,000 funding from the Australian Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery grants to upgrade the hall with substantial bushfire resilience measures to offer significantly improved safety.

A spokesperson said the Central Coast Bushfire Management Committee and NSW Rural Fire Service had now approved the hall as a Neighbourhood Safer Place, following the installation of various measures.

These include active bushfire protection sprinklers to protect the hall buildings, independent water supply with 18kl steel rainwater tanks and a spearpoint pump and a backup power supply with solar,

A “cost of living” budget

McBride said the Government knew that people on the Central Coast are doing it tough.

“We are delivering cost-ofliving relief for Coasties with tax cuts, energy bill relief, more Fee-Free TAFE places, cheaper medicines and more rental assistance,” she said.

“It’s about the top priority that drives our government – acting on cost of living.”

McBride highlighted the wiping of about $3B from student HECS debt, set to benefit 15,404 residents in Dobell, and the expansion of fee-free TAFE with 20,000 additional places in housing and construction.

She said the Budget aimed to take pressure off people without adding to pressure on inflation; a Budget to train more

tradies, build more homes, boost bulk billing and give more Australians a crack at university or TAFE.

She also highlighted the Future Made in Australia; the transformative opportunities of clean energy, new technology, strengthening the defence industry and capability, and investing in strategic industries.

The Budget includes a 10 per cent increase in Commonwealth rent assistance, set to benefit 7,310 households in the Robertson electorate and 9,480 in Dobell.

This is on top of the 15 per cent increase announced in the last Budget.

Coasties will also benefit from a five-year price freeze on medicines for pensioners and concession card holders at

$7.70 and a one-year freeze for others at $31.60.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers says the “cost of living budget” reinforces that the Government wants to be part of the solution to inflation, not part of the problem.

Other measures announced in the Budget include cutting $3B in student debt for more than three million Australians and cheaper medicines through a new Community Pharmacy Agreement.

To tackle the housing crisis, the Budget includes: a new five-year National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness for states and territories to deliver crisis support and social housing; $1B to support women and children experiencing domestic violence, as well as youth;

Place of refuge for Pearl

batteries and generator giving highly reliable supply for 48plus hours.

The hall infrastructure includes an AED (automated external defibrillator), first aid supplies, toilet washroom facilities, NBN/phone and a functioning kitchen.

“The hall project has successfully created a substantially more resilient ‘last resort’ place for residents to shelter if unable to evacuate from a major fire,” an Association spokesperson said.

“It will also be an excellent resource in other catastrophic events such as major storms, road closures and power outages within the village.

“The project was designed, project managed and installed by community volunteers.”

The hall/Neighbourhood Safer Place (NSP) is also available for use by all NSW

training more tradies and construction workers to build more homes by boosting construction skills with feefree TAFE places; expanding the Affordable Housing Bond Aggregator program; bolstering community housing providers to support the first tranche of homes to be delivered under the Housing Australia Future Fund and National Housing Accord; and delivering funding for new and existing infrastructure projects.

The Budget will see $22.7B invested over a decade to build a stronger and more resilient economy powered by clean energy, create more well-paid jobs and facilitate private investment.

Along with 29 more Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, the Budget delivers: free access to mental

Beach community

Emergency Services as a hub during a fire or storm when power is out in the village.

The NSP Operations Manual is in place and physical training in the activation and operation of the NSP commenced in March 2023.

Further training, to refresh

and of new operators, will be held each year in September ahead of the start of bushfire season.

Pearl Beach is at high risk from both bushfire and severe storms and exacerbated because Brisbane Water National Park surrounds the

health care for moreAustralians; an additional 24,100 home care packages; getting the NDIS back on track; and provisioning for wage increases for aged care and early childhood education and care workers.

It also delivers better outcomes for women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, including through superannuation on Paid Parental Leave, support for victim survivors of domestic violence, and improved education, jobs, housing and essential services for First Nations people.

Following a surplus of $22.1B in 2022–23, the Budget is forecasting a surplus of $9.3B in 2023–24.

Fiscal pressures will intensify after that, with a deficit of $28.3B forecast for 2024–25.

Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor said the energy rebate was necessary because Labor has failed to deliver on its preelection promise of a $275 reduction in energy costs.

“It’s now admitting it’s failed and it’s putting a band-aid on a bullet wound,” he said.

“It hasn’t dealt with the underlying problems in the energy sector.

“What we needed to see in this Budget was a wholesale attack on inflation, beating the inflation dragon, and we haven’t seen that.”

Terry Collins

village on three sides with up to 4km of dense bush with bushfires being an everpresent risk.

The spokesperson said about 120 of the 660 properties in the village directly abutted the national park and all were within 500m of the bush.

“Many people in these properties may need to be evacuated.

“The village is heavily vegetated and vulnerable to prolonged ember attack.

“(It) is served by a single twokilometre road surrounded by dense bushland on either side.

“The risks of this road being cut off (could see) fire or fallen trees isolating the village for hours or possibly days.

“The single overhead powerline could be out for hours or days and many residents are elderly/frail, some requiring medical equipment or medicines which need refrigeration.”

The Hall/Neighbourhood Safer Place will primarily ensure the survival and refuge of not only Pearl Beach residents but also to the significant number of holidaymakers and visitors to the village.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid beside the “Budget Tree” in the gardens of Parliament House, which turns bright red around when the Federal Budget is handed down

Volunteers Ben Kearney, Paul Toohey and Warren Greenway celebrate completion of the project

See page 22 for the business community’s response to the budget

Coast Connect

Central Coast Council news and community information

Clean up from recent weather

Thank you to everyone who has worked to help keep our community safe, supported and informed during the recent heavy rainfall and flooding.

For residents impacted, here’s some advice for clean up and recovery.

Need support? For mental health, financial support and other clean and recovery advice and information, search ‘clean up and recovery’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Health and safety. Please avoid unnecessary risks during clean up by wearing suitable protective clothing, and practice basic hygiene.

Waste collection. Kerbside bin collections continue. Book bulk kerbside collections at 1Coast.com.au or drop waste at a Council waste management facility.

Wrack (seagrass). We continue to collect the wrack on public foreshore areas. For wrack located on private properties, we encourage residents to utilise wrack as mulch, otherwise it can be placed in your green bin, or book a collection through 1Coast.com.au

Waterways. Avoid swimming and recreational activities within our waterways for a few days after significant rainfall.

Roads. Crews continue to attend to potholes across the region, with repairs prioritised by level of safety risk and at highspeed and higher traffic roads first. Please report potholes via our online Customer Service Centre centralcoastcouncil. custhelp.com/app or call 4306 7900.

Keep up-to date. During and following extreme weather conditions, we regularly post important news and helpful information on our Facebook page. Visit facebook.com/ CentralCoastCouncil

The next Council meeting will be held at Wyong, 6.30pm 28 May.

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

What’s on

Sydney Writers Festival free live-stream

Enjoy live-streamed events of the Sydney Writers Festival.

Selected Central Coast libraries are streaming broadcaster and author Julia Baird.

You can also hear about the role of journalists in war, hosted by Hamish Macdonald.

Search ‘Sydney Writers Festival’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Securing the Coast’s water future

Shovels are officially in the ground and work has commenced out at Mardi Water Treatment Plant, with Council working with Abergeldie Constructions to complete the largest and most ambitious water infrastructure project the region has seen this decade. The upgrade is designed to help safeguard the region’s water supply now and into the future.

For more information, search ‘Mardi Water Treatment Plant upgrade’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Call-out for Creatives

Once again we are inviting emerging and established makers and creators to join Creative Spaces with the opportunity to occupy the program’s container activations.

The location for the popular gallery container will be at Toukley’s Village Green, with the opportunity for the creative community to deliver installations, exhibitions, and creative workshops. EOI is open to creative individuals, groups, or collectives.

To register your interest, search ‘creative spaces’ at lovecentralcoast.com

Start planning your Harvest Festival weekend trail

Celebrate the Central Coast’s spectacular hinterland communities and choose your own adventure at this year’s Harvest Festival over the 8 to 9 June weekend.

We have over 30 event hubs this year offering something for everyone.

Reserve your place to ensure you don’t miss out!

To view the event program and book, search ‘harvest festival’ at lovecentralcoast.com

Grant program opening soon!

Central Coast Council’s Grant Program is opening 1 June. Are you interested in applying but feel unsure about the process, your eligibility or are unfamiliar with the guidelines?

To help guide you, we are hosting a series of free information sessions and drop-in sessions this May and June. Places are limited, and all attendees must register to participate.

To register, search ‘community grant information’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Slowing down, saves lives

Speeding remains the number one contributing factor in road casualty crashes on the Central Coast.

We’ve partnered with police to help reduce casualties.

Remember, 50km/hour is the default speed limit in built up urban areas in NSW, unless sign posted otherwise.

Please slow down on local roads, which often have children, cyclists, older road users and pedestrians around.

More than 1,000 signatures have been collected on a petition to save the existing Gosford Library building after the new regional library opens.

Community activist Joy Cooper, who started the petition, has written to Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart asking him to review his decision on the building’s proposed demolition and consider repurposing it.

Cooper said the civic building had historic significance and historical association, along with architectural importance to the area.

“It is listed by the Australian Institute of Architects on a Register of Significant Buildings in NSW and is perfect for adaptive reuse to be used as an income stream,” she said.

Cooper said she was also concerned that there had been no published costing for the demolition and no cost benefit analysis for options.

“It is also my understanding

An environment presentation hosted by Coast4One Community on April 27 was a huge success, with 16 speakers from diverse environmental groups around the region addressing dozens of concerned residents.

Nina Angelo spoke of the Late Aunty Beve’s visions for the Central Coast and Darkinoong and Yuin woman Colleen Fuller outlined her involvement in the Coast Environment Alliance and the actions it has taken to save Bambara and Kariong.

She also spoke of her involvement on the Central Coast Council Aboriginal Advisory Committee and standing as an Independent at the last elections.

Dr Michael Feneley spoke on why NSW was the worst place

The NSW Government will future-proof Mannering Park foreshore at Lake Macquarie by investing $600,000 to renew part of its seawall.

Crown Lands in the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is funding and managing the project in partnership with NSW Public Works and has appointed Bridgewater Marine Pty Ltd as the contractors to do the work following a competitive tender process.

The major works will include removing a worn-out section of

Calls ramp up to save Gosford Library

the previous and current Council Heritage Committees recommended listing this building,” she said.

“Additionally the National Trust has heritage listed (it) and the building is also considered significant by the Australian institute of Architects.

“I’m also told Council has a responsibility to prepare a statement of heritage impact for non-statutory heritage listings and to date

this has not occurred.”

Cooper said consultation on the future of the building was “flimsy”, with the demolition proposal unclear.

“The demolition of this building is such a waste when the cost of building is so much higher than the cost of adaptive reuse,” she said.

“Especially when there are so many community groups who would benefit from this space.

“Additionally, I’m amazed

that this tender had been included with a building around the corner (the Broadwater Hotel site), and up the road.

“Surely for transparency and clarity the two sites need to be separate for tenders.”

Cooper said the State Government Architect had been clear that the Gosford library building was best to be retained and adaptive reuse considered.

“Finally, how can a tender be

agreed to when the costs and other variables that are entailed are not clear as there can be a number of conditions placed on the demolition which usually only become clear with a DA,” she said.

Council says the existing library, which has served the community well but is now past its life span, would require a significant investment to bring it up to current standards, as well as ongoing maintenance.

Uniting to save the environment

for offshore wind projects, Jacquelene Pearson spoke about the work of the Community Environment Network, and Lyndall Parris spoke on the history of Narara Eco Village and how it evolved to where it is today.

John Seed gave a brief overview of the many different campaigns he has been involved in and Corinne and Mark Lamont from Wamberal Save Our Sand discussed the campaign against a seawall.

Ursula Da Silva spoke on the recent destruction of sections in the Ourimbah State Forest and Save Kariong Sacred Lands was represented by Lisa Bellamy who discussed the planned proposal by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council to rezone E2/C2 environmentally protected

land into R2 zoning for housing.

Kate Da Costa from Central Coast Greens spoke about the party’s policies around the environment on the Central Coast and Michael Stevenson from One Nation also adressed the audience.

Central Coast Council Section

Manager: Natural Assets and Biodiversity Larry Melican spoke about the Council’s programs and encouraged residents to join the Volunteer Environment Program.

Kate Mason from Community Voice Australia discussed Eco System Services and Vicki

Burke finished by sharing information she had received from GIPA Act requests regarding the Memorandum of Understandings between Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council and Central Coast Council, Department of Planning and Lendlease.

Upgrade for Mannering Park foreshore

seawall, replacing it with a new 70m seawall of sandstone block design, and removing a dilapidated jetty.

The stabilisation of the foreshore will protect public reserve and recreational facilities including a cycleway, outdoor exercise station and benches from coastal erosion.

This will safeguard a popular outdoor recreation area adjacent the BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie Tourist Park.

The new foreshore structure will connect to the existing boat ramp south-east of the works,

with creek stabilisation to the north-west already completed by Central Coast Council.

Crown Lands, which owns the public land near the seawall, has consulted with Central Coast Council, BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Lake Macquarie Tourist Park and the local community on the project.

Temporary pedestrian access will be maintained along the foreshore, while direct access to the seawall will be temporarily closed for public safety as rebuilding of the seawall takes place.

Member for Swansea Yasmin

Catley said the Mannering Park foreshore was a Lake Macquarie gem, loved by locals and a drawcard for visitors.

“It’s fantastic to have these upgrades underway so locals and visitors can get out and enjoy our beautiful lake,” she said.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the significant investment would protect the Mannering Park foreshore from coastal erosion and make it safer and more accessible.

It says the building is not listed on any local or state heritage listings and will not be demolished until the completion and opening of the new Regional Library, anticipated mid-2025.

“The site of the existing Gosford Library is incorporated into the Kibble Park Place Master Plan, which will see more open green and play spaces, dedicated event spaces and cultural features,” a spokesperson said.

“Tenders are now being sought for the demolition of both the Gosford Library and the former Broadwater Hotel.

“No demolition works have yet commenced on the site but Council will ensure compliance with the requirements of the relevant State Environmental Planning Policies prior to demolition works commencing.”

The petition can be accessed at www.change.org/p/stopthe-demolition-of-thegosford-library-building

Most of the presentations will be available in video form on Facebook in coming weeks.

“Overall, we realised now is the time to stand up and take action,” a spokesperson said.

“It was suggested people start researching new legislation for rapid changes and follow Council elections to note who is taking care of our local environment, especially (the Kariong development), which is a ‘test case’ for future developments.

“It was also stated we need to unite now and realise future, fast-tracked plans for the Central Coast are going to impact us all.

“We need to have our say now or expect to lose a great deal of our beauty; this is time critical.”

The foreshore will receive a major upgrade

The library building is set for demolition next March

Dozens of concerned residents attended

Get behind Team Sparky driving across Australia

When Jade Waston and Narelle Finney take off on an adventure of a lifetime next month they will have the entire Central Coast barracking for them.

These friends also known as Team Sparky, have entered this year’s Sh*tbox Rally aiming to drive their bubblegum pink 1991 Mitsubishi Galant the 3,800km from Melbourne to Alice Springs to raise money for the Cancer Council.

Sh*tbox Rally is not a race, rather a challenge where entrants drive cars worth only $1,500 across Australia in the name of charity.

The trusty Galant will be sent by freight to Melbourne where the adventure begins.

Jade and Narelle, both small business owners, aim to raise $20,000 for the Cancer Council.

“Driving through the middle of Australia and raising money for the Cancer Council was on our bucket list,” Watson said.

“All the funds we raise go to Cancer Council and we are extremely proud to be doing our

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is disappointed over the little or no funding for reconstruction of local roads in Central Coast Council’s draft 2024-2025 Operational Plan.

“It is a constant source of frustration that despite more than 80 per cent of our Peninsula roads being without kerb and gutter, footpaths and adequate stormwater drainage, the Draft Operational Plan for 2024-2025 makes no allocations for road reconstruction,” Chamber President Matthew Wales said.

“Other than general allocations towards road

Member for Dobell Emma McBride has issued a warning that Australian 3G networks will be switched over to 4G this year, impacting different devices in different ways.

There are devices which rely solely on 3G, including 3G-only handsets, some Eftpos machines and medical alarms. 3G-only handsets won’t be able to make any calls after the switchover, and that will be apparent to users.

However, there’s also a subset of 4G handsets which use 4G for voice and data but are configured by the manufacturer to use 3G for Triple Zero calls.

part to support such a worthy charity.

“Fundraising is the hard part, so any donation you can give is greatly appreciated.”

As part of their fundraising efforts, the girls will host the Touch of Pink Trivia Night Fundraiser, their last push to reach their goal of $20,000, at Erina Leagues Club on May 18 at 6pm.

“This is going to be a great night full of fun, laughs and longlasting memories,” Finney said.

The dress-up theme for the night is A Touch of Pink with lots of raffles and prizes to be won.

Tickets are $55 per person which includes a welcome drink and snacks with bookings available through trybooking.

Watson works alongside her husband Gareth at their thriving business, Case Fabrication and Engineering at Berkeley Vale, while actively participating in charitable endeavours.

In addition to their professional and philanthropic pursuits, Watson is a devoted mother of two girls, expertly balancing her

roles in business and family life.

She said her decision to join the Sh*tbox Rally was deeply personal, driven by her desire to honour her mother-in-law, who tragically lost her life to skin cancer.

Finney is the owner of Eco Chic Hair with a heart dedicated to helping others.

She said her journey had been deeply influenced by her experiences, especially supporting her mother through the challenging battle with breast cancer.

As a hairdresser, she said she doesn’t just transform hairstyles; she also uplifts spirits and creates a safe space for her clients to share their stories.

She said she was excited about participating in the Sh*tBox Rally and having witnessed her mother’s journey, understands the emotional and physical toll that cancer takes on individuals and families.

For more information about Team Sparky and to donate visit www.teamsparky.com.au

Lack of funding for Peninsula roads

patching and resealing, the Council has no plans to reconstruct our key roads despite an increase in development and more people choosing to live on the Peninsula.

“The Draft Operational Plan cleverly defines road patching and resealing as road renewal.

“Council plans considerable resealing works for 2024-2025 including Rabaul St.

“But really, this is simply covering up the problem with bitumen without addressing the fundamental need to reconstruct our key roads with kerb and gutter, stormwater drainage and

pedestrian footpaths.

“No-one begrudges money spend on maintenance but reviewing the Council’s Four Year Works Program 2024-25 to 2027-28 is grim reading.

“Other than the promised federal government funding for the Ocean Beach Rd/Rawson Rd intersection, there are no Peninsula roads listed for reconstruction works.”

Wales said it was frustrating to see millions of dollars being poured into parks, reserves and community buildings across the city including $9.45M to refurbish the Wyong Council Chambers over the next four years.

“It would seem ironic that we are spending millions of ratepayer dollars on wonderful shiny assets but get lost in potholes trying to get there,” he said.

“What is apparent from the works program is the absence of Peninsula developer contributions for road works.

“At a time when we are seeing a resurgence in our Peninsula town centres, Council should be allocating more funding towards civil infrastructure in support of local businesses and residents,” Wales said.

Be prepared for 3G switchover

This category of handset is of more concern because it won’t be apparent to users their handset can’t call Triple Zero after the switch over; they would only discover this

during an emergency.

Recent industry estimates indicate that up to 740,000 devices currently in the market will not be able to contact Triple Zero post-switchover, as a result of manufacturer’s device settings.

McBride said the Federal Government takes the issue extremely seriously and will continue to monitor the switchovers.

She said options exist in law, including potential proposals to delay planned 3G switchovers, if that is in the public interest, and subject to consultation processes.

“The Central Coast is home to many older people with basic phones that they only use in

emergencies situations,” McBride said.

“Supporting access to Triple Zero is absolutely critical for these people.

“Our government understands that telecommunications services are vital, and we are making it a priority to keep Australians safe, connected, and informed.

“It is critical that telcos communicate clearly with customers ahead of the planned 3G switchover, particularly with more vulnerable Australians and regional communities like ours.”

The Government is investing over $2.2B to strengthen networks, including mobile

network resilience and much needed technology upgrades to the NBN – enabling speed boosts and helping ensure Australians get more for what they pay on their telco bills.

The government recently announced it was standing up a Working Group with all three telcos and the industry’s peak body to improve communications, reporting information, and advice to customers.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said while the Government supports the safe switchover from 3G, it is important Australians are aware that some devices in the mobile market are not appropriately configured to

contact emergency services on the 4G network.

“This new Working Group will ensure industry better coordinates efforts to identify and contact impacted customers, improves the accessibility of public-facing information and contact points, and provides regular advice to Government on the number of potentially affected devices and customers in the market,” she said.

To find out if their device is impacted, consumers are encouraged to contact their provider.

More information is available at www.amta.org.au/3gclosure

Rabaul St, Umina Beach, is one road in need of a complete restructure

Member for Dobell Emma McBride

Jade Watson and Narelle Finney are about to set off on an adventure of a lifetime

Doylo Doonas will keep the most vulnerable warm

As Winter draws near, The Doylo has announced it will continue its community driven initiative, Doylo Doonas, now entering its third consecutive year.

Teaming up with We Care Connect, The Doylo provides essential winter support to vulnerable local residents.

Last winter, We Care Connect was asked to provide winter essentials for 1,425 disadvantaged children on the Coast, including blankets, warm joggers, hoodies, slipper socks, oodies and dressing gowns.

With support from The Doylo, We Care Connect was able to distribute over 18,000 pieces of warm clothing, 1,700 blankets and doonas, and 92 pairs of mittens/gloves, ensuring that vulnerable children remained warm and protected during the cold months.

“The Doylo is immensely proud to partner with such a wonderful and purposeful organisation,” CEO Darren Thornton said.

“No-one, especially children, should go cold this winter.

“I ask all our members and our community to support this initiative.

“Every single item helps.

“With the cost of living demands and increasing housing shortages, those most vulnerable need our help now.”

In addition to Doylo Doonas, The Doylo actively collaborates with We Care Connect on various community projects throughout the year, including volunteer days involving staff members and initiatives like a recent nappy drive.

Thornton said the holistic approach demonstrated the club’s deep-rooted commitment to community engagement and support.

By buying new doonas (single or double) and dropping them off at The Doylo or Summerland Sporties before the end of May, individuals can make a significant difference by providing warmth and comfort to those in need during winter.

Join Volunteering Central Coast for the annual Central Coast Volunteer Expo, to be held at the Erina Centre on May 22.

The event connects individuals with a passion for helping others and supporting the community to a wide range of local community organisations in need of volunteer support.

Attendees can engage with numerous not-for-profit organisations and explore a vast array of volunteering roles, from driving community buses to administrative support, to enriching the lives of older adults.

The jobs board of current opportunities will be available to explore.

Attendees will also learn about the dual benefits of volunteering—helping the community and enhancing

Volunteer expo at Erina

their own skills and wellbeing.

“Volunteering benefits not only the organisations involved but also the volunteers themselves,” Volunteering

‘Volunteering is a fantastic way to connect and support community, learn new skills,

meet new people, create pathways to employment and improve your own health and wellbeing.

“This year, our focus is on

inclusivity, particularly inviting First Nation Peoples, newly arrived migrants, vulnerable women and unemployed individuals to discover how volunteering can play a transformative role in their lives.

“Volunteering Central Coast can help and support you to find the right volunteer role and organisation for you.” There will be valuable educational seminars such as Bridge to Volunteering and Wellbeing and Boundaries for Volunteers.

The Central Coast Volunteer Expo is a free event and will be held from 10am-2pm on Wednesday, May 22, at the Erina Centre, Erina Fair.

For more information go to www.volunteeringcentral coast.org.au

Barry takes out Gosford Seniors Award

Meals on Wheels volunteer

Barry Hyde has been named as the 2024 Gosford Seniors Award Winner, chosen from a number of high-calibre nominees.

He has been helping to feed the community three to four times each week for more than 21 years.

“In my life I have always been with elderly people more than young people,” he said.

“I have always had a lot of time for the elderly, and I like helping them out; any little thing that I can do for them.

“I love doing it.”

Hyde was nominated for the award by Meals on Wheels Central Coast Operations Manager Leesa O’Keefe.

“Barry always goes above and beyond for the clients of

Meals on Wheels, he is the first to jump in if we are short of volunteers, no matter what day it is,” she said.

“He comes in happy every shift, and many of our clients ask if Barry will be delivering their meals when they ring to place an order.

“He has a genuine joy in helping the vulnerable members of our community.

“This award is very well deserved.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said Hyde had given his time generously throughout the years.

“I congratulate all of the nominees, who have made our region a diverse, active and inspirational place to live for their generous and remarkable contributions.

“It was a thrill to join Barry

and the team at Meals on Wheels to present Barry with a certificate recognising him as the 2024 Gosford

Award Winner.

“Barry’s sense of community spirit and generosity is a true symbol of

Rotary gets behind Coast Shelter

The Rotary Club of Gosford has donated more than $7,500 from the proceeds of its annual Razzamatazz Show to help refurnish Coast Shelter’s men’s refuge in Gosford.

The refuge provides vital crisis accommodation and support services to men experiencing homelessness.

But after many years of constant use, the furnishings were worn and in dire need of replacing.

“When we had Coast Shelter’s Men’s Service Manager come and talk at one of our meetings we learned about the need to upgrade the living environment at the men’s refuge, and our

club members collectively decided that they would be one of the beneficiaries of our annual Razzamatazz fundraising,” Rotary Club Treasurer David Boardman

said.

“The timing could not have been better, as the NSW Department of Housing had also just completed some structural renovations to the

building, giving them a clean slate.”

The money raised via the popular variety show has allowed Coast Shelter to buy new beds, mattresses, lounges and armchairs, side and coffee tables, a dining setting, clinical office furniture, bookcases and a rug to significantly improve the living conditions for the refuge’s residents during their stay.

“Having never had brand new furniture in our men’s refuge before, this donation has not only blown our current clients away but also put huge smiles on our refuge staff’s faces,” Coast Shelter CEO Lee Shearer said.

the best of our community.

“It is people like Barry that make our Central Coast community such a beautiful place to live.

“I send my most heartfelt thanks, not only to Barry, but also to all our Coastie seniors, who look after our community each and every day.

“A special mention also goes out to the 2024 Gosford Seniors Award runners-up, Frank Wiffen, Bill Bollard and June O’Neill.

“Our community is so lucky that you call the Coast home.”

The 2024 Gosford Seniors Awards, held each year as part of the NSW Seniors Festival, highlight the diverse ways seniors support their families, communities and society more broadly across the Central Coast and beyond.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Rotary Club of Gosford for their amazing efforts in providing a fresh, comfortable and dignified environment for the men in our care as they work to get back on their feet.”

The Razzamatazz Show was funded through the generous support of local Central Coast businesses, making both the production and the fundraising possible.

The Rotary Club of Gosford has also provided support to Coast Shelter in various other ways over the years and continue to improve the lives of Coasties from all walks of life through their community fundraising and involvement.

The Coast Shelter team accepts the cheque from Rotary members

Central Coast Executive Officer Dianne Moy said.

Find out which volunteer role is right for you

Seniors

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with Barry Hyde and members of the Meals on Wheels team

Five Central Coast surf clubs are among 32 statewide to benefit from the latest round of the NSW Government’s Surf Club Facility Program.

The program helps surf lifesaving clubs develop facilities that encourage increased participation and facility usage as well as improve community safety.

Ocean Beach club was awarded $398,663 for the creation of an enclosed education and training space for volunteers and Soldiers Beach club has been awarded $33,000 for the installation of a battery storage unit.

North Entrance Surf Life Saving Club was awarded $32,727 for the installation of a new solar PV system and an upgrade to its changing facilities.

MacMasters Beach club receives $30,583.64 for an upgrade to its solar system which will allow for environmentally sustainable power supply and battery storage, while Wamberal Surf Life Saving Club receives $92,400 for the construction of an all-weather awning on the first floor of the Club.

Member for Terrigal Adam

Boost for Coast surf clubs

Crouch said the money will go a long way in supporting increased participation, facility usage and improved safety at the clubs.

MacMasters Beach Surf Life Saving Club president Alison McNeill said the solar system upgrade will allow for an environmentally sustainable power supply and battery storage.

“It will be of benefit to our whole community as we can provide power during outages and allow cost savings to be used in surf lifesaving activities,” she said.

Wamberal Surf Life Saving Club president Adam Phillips said the grant will have a significant impact on the way the club’s deck area is used.

“It allows not only the patrol members, but members of the community to be able to come

to the club and use the facility and be protected from the weather,” he said.

Minister for Central Coast David Harris, Member for The Entrance David Mehan and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said lifesaving volunteers were the unsung heroes of the community, protecting locals and visitors in the water.

They said the grants would contribute towards the development of modern, fitfor-purpose facilities that enables surf lifesavers to better protect the community and continue to deliver a world-class service.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said surf lifesavers never wavered in their commitment to protecting the community.

“That’s why we are providing $21M over four years to ensure

our surf lifesaving clubs have modern, inclusive and accessible facilities,” he said.

Ocean Beach Surf Club

Surf Life Saving NSW

President Peter Agnew said 20,000 active volunteer surf lifesavers had performed more than 4,600 rescues, a million preventative actions and nearly 20,000 first aid treatments during the recent beach season.

“It has been one of our busiest patrol seasons in years,” he said.

“The Surf Club Facility Program has always contributed greatly to the ongoing important community service our lifesavers deliver, through enhanced facilities to ensure our lifesavers are rescue-ready, trained, and equipped appropriately, and it’s excellent to see 32 clubs

benefitting from the latest round of funding.

“Our surf clubs also act as key community hubs, promoting inclusivity and social cohesion, so this investment benefits all the community.

“We have 129 clubs across the state, with 78,000 members, and this program allows those members, who do such important work volunteering at our beaches, to focus on saving lives.”

The NSW Government has allocated $16M to the program over four years.

This was boosted by an additional $5M in the 2023/24

NSW State Budget as part of a $23M funding increase to Surf Life Saving NSW to better protect beachgoers and reduce drownings.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Parents group

The Mainly Babies group at Erina Community Baptist Church has space available in its upcoming series running for eight weeks on Wednesdays from June 12. The group is for parents with a baby under 12 months old who might be struggling with social isolation, are new to the area, or are new to parenting. For more details call Lisa on 0408 165 690 or email at kids@erinabap.org.au

Activists meet

The Central Coast Activist Collective will hold its next meeting from 11.30am1pm on Wednesday, June 5, at Ourimbah RSL Club. Guest speaker will be Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart.

Busy season

The Central Coast recorded the second highest number of Marine Rescue missions in NSW during the recently completed boating season. The Lake Macquarie unit recorded the highest number missions with 441, followed by Central Coast with 201 and Port Stephens with 183.

you are an adult at higher risk of severe illness or are 65 years and over, a free COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you every 6 to 12 months.

your

or pharmacist about what is best for you.

Soldiers Beach Surf Club

Wamberal Surf Club

How many coffees can the baristas at Tommy’s Cafe in Gosford make in one hour?

They hope to be put to the test on Saturday, May 18, from 10am.

Anyone who buys a coffee will have that money donated to Gosford Fire and Rescue while the fire engine is outside Tommy’s.

A week after the official open days of the Coast’s fire and rescue services, the Gosford crew will take their fire engine to Tommy’s at 10am for about an hour.

Anyone will be able to check out the beautiful firefighting machine – and buying a coffee while the fire brigade is there will see their money donated to the firies’ favourite charity Beat the Burn.

Beat the Burn raises funds for Station 2 – which is the official firies’ name for the burns unit at the Children’s Hospital, Westmead. All stations in NSW have a station number.

Fire and Rescue stations across the Coast include Wyong, Kincumber, Wyoming, Umina, Toukley, The Entrance, Terrigal, Saratoga, Kariong, Hamlyn Terrace, Doyalson,

Budgewoi, Berkeley Vale, Bateau Bay and Gosford.

Staff donate to Beat the Burn in a number of different ways such as payroll deductions or participating in riding, running hiking and paddling challenges at a yearly beat the burn event held over four days.

Keep an eye out for the fundraising helmets scattered around the coast.

New Sikh temple opens in Gosford

Members of the local Sikh community welcomed one and all to experience a “glance of grace” amidst prayers and joyful feasting at the recent opening of a new Sikh temple at East Gosford on Sunday, May 12.

The opening of the Central Coast Sikh temple, the Gurdwara Sahib, was celebrated by local Sikh families, other residents and visiting dignitaries and their families.

Gurdwara Sahib means the doorway to God.

This doorway, or temple, is at 134 Erina St, Gosford.

The celebration began with prayers, and was followed by Kirtan which are prayers or praise for the divine, as well as a feast for all attending.

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris attended along with his family.

He was welcomed in a speech by Chetanpreet Singh Gill, eldest son of Central Coast Sikh Community President Arvendar Singh Gill.

“Your presence among us today is a great honour, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have you with us,” he said.

“May your leadership be guided by the principles of

justice, equality, and service to humanity.”

Chetanpreet also talked about the ethics of the Sikhs and the tradition of a community kitchen where everyone, regardless of caste, religion or status, is welcome to a free, nutritious meal.

“This tradition emphasises equality and the importance of sharing with others,” he said.

Also present were Ruoinder Kaur, Navroop Kaur, Simatjut Malhi and Lakshpreet Kaur, Manpreet Kaur and Taranbir Sing Gill.

The Sikh community has opened the space for both Sikh families and Central Central

residents to come together for prayer and afterwards to share a delicious meal every Sunday, free of charge.

Local Sikhs recognised the need for a local temple because the nearest alternative is more than 60km away in Turramurra. There are more than 300 Sikh families living on the Central Coast who recognised the need for a local temple because the nearest alternative is more than 60km away in Turramurra.

The new Central Coast temple will be open from 5am to 8pm daily and volunteers will look after the temple and provide the feast free of charge to all attendees every Sunday.

From left: Parminder Singh Gill, Minister for Central Coast Member for Wyong David Harris, and Arvendar Singh Gill

Naman Moss at Tommy’s with the fundraising helmet into which customers can donate to the firies any time

FORUM & ON THE BEAT

Dense housing will have consequences

I was intrigued to read that our State Member of Parliament, Liesl Tesch, thinks it’s wonderful that Woy Woy, and other parts of the Central Coast, will now be subject to high density residential developments.

Apparently, this will address the housing crisis – which I might add, both major political parties have caused due to their ongoing fascination with permitting extremely high levels of immigration and perpetuating a legal framework that permits foreign investment in land and housing.

I wonder if she has considered the negative consequences of high density developments on the Peninsula and surrounding areas?

Very high population densities will lead to: traffic gridlock on Woy Woy Rd, Ocean Beach Rd and Brisbane Water Dr and the

FORUM

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

See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper

Motorway, during peak hour and on weekends.

(There will be) parking chaos at our local beaches, Deepwater Plaza and Woy Woy station carparks and along with this will come metered parking.

(There will be) worsening wait times for the sick and infirmed at our local GPs clinics and Gosford Hospital – it’s bad enough, already.

(There will be) overcrowding at our local reserves, libraries, beaches, Deepwater Plaza, local schools and council leisure centres, higher levels of water pollution, due to the greater quantity of sewage discharges into our waterways, and reduced water pressure

and higher water rates (due to greater demand for drinking water, from a limited resource).

(There will be) more frequent, longer and more severe water restrictions during dry periods, severe crowding on intercity train services and local railway stations, higher levels of air pollution, due to more cars on our roads and, significantly, changes to the laid-back character, demographics and culture of the Peninsula.

So, what are the State Government and Council plans to mitigate each one of these readily forseeable consequences?

If comprehensive and effective plans and funding are

not in place, then these developments should not even considered or permitted.

Don’t bring inner city Sydney to the Central Coast.

Email, May 3

Julian Richards, Kariong

Toukley

McDonald’s a bad idea

The Council should not allow a McDonald’s restaurant at Toukley.

The traffic is already congested with the school, Aldi, Service NSW and the coffee shop right near the traffic lights.

There are already parking issues around the proposed site on the corner of Evans and Main roads.

At night we already have speeding cars around Noraville. The noise would increase and become unbearable.

Why not put it out on Wilfred Barrett Dr, where there is no residential housing.

$1.3M found in vehicle at Wyong

Organised Crime Squad detectives seized $1.3M during a vehicle stop on the Central Coast last week under Strike Force Mactier.

The Strike Force was established by State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad, working in collaboration with the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged

Having McDonald’s open late into the night only brings a bad element of person to the area.

There will be an increase in crime, muggings etc.

Not to mention the young people who will be working there, being at risk of being assaulted.

Council needs to re-think this proposal.

Email, Feb 2 Sandra Willmott, Toukley

Little has improved at Council

I liked the article by Kevin Brooks about Central Coast Council keeping the 15 per cent rate increase (CCN437).

(Administrator) Rick Hart was put into Council to improve the financial position of the Council. He has failed miserably and only increased the cost to ratepayers.

His contacts at IPART have given him everything he asked

money laundering offences by organised crime groups across Sydney.

At about 1.30pm on Tuesday, May 7, strike force detectives, with assistance from officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, stopped a Toyota SUV at a service station on the M1 Motorway, near Wyong.

During the stop detectives located and seized $1.3M of Australian currency in the vehicle.

The driver, a 40-year-old man, was arrested and taken to Wyong Police Station.

Later that day at 7.50pm, strike force detectives executed a search warrant at a home on Herring Rd, Macquarie Park, where they seized $4,700 and information detailing several

banks accounts containing a further $250,000.

The 40-year-old was charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime.

Detectives will allege in court that the man was involved in a significant money laundering operation working within Sydney.

He was refused bail.

Investigations under Strike Force Mactier are continuing.

Bike rider crashes into house

Late afternoon on Sunday, May 12, emergency services were called to Summerland Point after a motorbike rider crashed into a house.

The serious accident on the corner of Tradewinds Ave and Clipper St caused damage to the house and the road was closed to traffic for several hours.

A medical team treated a woman aged in her 50s at the scene before she was transported by NSW Ambulance to John Hunter Hospital.

Crews from Gwandalan Summerland Point Rural Fire Brigade were on-site to assist with site management, traffic control and clean-up.

for with no thought of the ratepayers.

From Kevin’s details it appears only months after Mr Hart leaves the Council will be back in financial disaster.

So sadly the only ones to lose, having had a financial manager running the Council, are the ratepayers and residents.

Mr Hart has achieved the record of most complained about Council in NSW, the worst roads and the most unprepared Council for the future.

From another article about a carpark at Saratoga, it appears Council management cannot even get car parking spaces correct, so there is little hope for real challenges.

Let’s hope the new councillors will have learnt something from the debacle of the last few years.

ON THE BEAT BRIEFS

Woman burnt

At around 4.30pm on Friday, May 10, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to Kincumber to attend to a woman in her 40s suffering burns.

The woman was treated by paramedics and the helicopter’s critical care medical team before being airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital.

Terrigal assault

Detectives are appealing for information as part of an investigation into a serious assault on the Central Coast last year.

Brisbane Water Police are investigating the assault of a man in the bathroom of a venue on Kurrawyba Ave, Terrigal, at about 1.30am on Sunday, October 8, 2023.

The man, aged 26, was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Gosford Hospital for the treatment of serious facial injuries.

As inquiries continue, police urge anyone who might have witnessed the incident or have any other information about the assault to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Recruitment drive

The NSW Government has announced new measures to further boost police recruitment as the state experiences a critical shortage of police officers.

Following an announcement last year that the Government would pay recruits to study at Goulburn Police Academy, two new programs are specifically aimed at attracting both experienced officers and regional recruits to the NSW Police Force.

A Professional Mobility Program (PMP) will incentivise officers from other Australian states and territories and New

Zealand to join the NSWPF while keeping their equivalent rank (up to senior constable level six).

And the You Should Be a Cop in Your Hometown program will ensure people from regional NSW serve in, or near, their hometown after they graduate from the Goulburn Police Academy.

While new recruits currently nominate several areas where they would like to serve, Be a Cop in Your Hometown will give appropriate officers from regional NSW the opportunity to request to return to their hometown or a nearby community.

Email, May 9 Phil Morrison, Bateau Bay

Gwandalan-Summerland Point crews at the crash scene

Money found by police in Strike Force Mactier

Ken Ludwig’s hilarious play Moon Over Buffalo is sure to have audiences laughing when it plays at Peninsula Theatre for three weeks from May 17.

The zany farce, to be presented by Woy Woy Little Theatre (WWLT), centres on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950s.

They are playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York, and everything that can possibly go wrong, does.

The great movie director Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if he likes what he sees, he just might cast them in his movie remake of The Scarlet Pimpernel.

Naked ambition takes over as George and Charlotte do everything in their power to make Capra love them.

Director Jan Grounds said the play’s references to the golden years of Hollywood immediately caught her interest.

Add to that the fact that she has actually been to Buffalo and previously directed Private Lives for WWLT – and Grounds was hooked.

“This is an over-the-top comedy,” she said.

“It has everything from laughout-loud moments to slapstick and elements of farce.

“But underneath it all is a message of how to be resilient when things go wrong, relationship ups and downs and a homage to theatre.

Madcap comedy sure to please

“Those involved with theatre will recognise a lot in this play, with its many references to various plays and its underlying theme of a love of the stage.

“It also examines a variety of relationships – from mother/ daughter to father/daughter and couple relationships and those outside family.”

Grounds said the play’s themes, highlighted by light comedy, provided a perfect vehicle for actors and she has assembled a fine cast,

spearheaded by Yvonne BerryPorter Larimore and Mark Austin as Charlotte and George.

She has worked with both actors before and is relishing the chance to collaborate again.

Also in the cast are Kassandra Brown as Rosalind, Darienne Knight as Ethel, Jake Cain-Roser as Howard, Samara Dawson as Eileen, Ryan Bates as Paul, and Scott Larimore as Richard.

Grounds has also worked with Knight previously, with CainRoser and Larimore known to

Peninsula audiences and Dawson making her debut in a full-length play for the group.

Newcomer Bates has seized his role with gusto.

“I’ve loved the rehearsal process and think the actors have really enjoyed discovering the indiosyncrasies of their characters,” she said.

The show opens at Peninsula Theatre on Friday, May 17, for a three-week season.

For session times and bookings go to woywoylt.com

The cast of Moon Over Buffalo on set

New single dedicated to singer’s mum

Meagan Jane

Central Coast singer Meagan Jane released her latest single on Mother’s Day.

Dedicated to her mother, Hey Mum blends the sweetest of memories into a beautiful country melody, set to touch the hearts of listeners.

Some of the lyrics say “You’re a keeper, my protector, my believer, you got my back when the world crashes down”.

Recorded and produced at Chambers Avenue Recording Studio by Bill Chambers, the single sees Jane’s mesmerising vocals and rhythmic guitar playing accompanied by a stellar ensemble, with Bill Chambers on bass, guitar and lap steel, Gabi Louise on fiddle and Tyler Chambers on vocal harmonies.

Meagan Jane draws inspiration for her songs from life experiences and memories.

She continues to push her creativity to new heights on the country music scene.

She adds a rustic undertone to her breathtaking vocal sound, creating a sense of warmth and home within her style.

Hey Mum is available on all major streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music.

Follow Meagan Jane on social media or visit her official website, www. meaganjanemusic.com

Book Review

with Julie Chessman

Umina Beach BOOK NOOK

We Care Connect will be the charity partner for a wedding expo on June 16 to support its mission of breaking the barrier of childhood poverty in the region.

For the past eight years, We Care Connect has been donating valuable items to local families less fortunate than others, with more than 30,000 children living under the poverty line across the Central Coast and Hunter and the number growing significantly each year.

The organisation provides disadvantaged children with preloved clothing, cots, prams and car seats, supporting families facing domestic violence, financial hardship, homelessness and chronic illness, and is the charity partner for this year’s Getting Hitched Wedding Expo.

“This event will help to provide much needed assistance so that this year, more than 7,000 children will receive the clothing, winter blankets and nursery essentials that they don’t have,” We Care Connect spokesperson Helen Barker said.

The Lions Club of Wyoming East Gosford Centennial Inc

Getting Hitched wedding expo

has proudly hosted the wedding exhibition for nearly two decades, raising more than $250,000 for the Central Coast community and growing the exhibition to be one of the largest of its kind statewide.

Lions Club President Melissa Jones said the change in charity came with a change in venue, bringing a

fresh feel to the exhibition.

“This year’s charity of choice will support all families on the Central Coast and we look forward to celebrating our 18th birthday at the brand new Gosford RSL Club,” she said.

JC Entertainment and Events Co-Owner and Event Director Emma Callaghan said Getting

Potters’ exhibition open until May 22

The Central Coast Potters Society’s Autumn Exhibition will be on show in the Gosford Regional Gallery’s Community Gallery until May 22.

More than 20 local ceramic artists are displaying their work, all based on the theme Repeat, Repeat, Repeat.

The theme is expressed in

As part of an initiative called Central Coast Reads, the brainchild of Words on the Waves, all the reading groups, book clubs and centres on the Peninsula will this week be reading Khaki Town by the wonderful effervescent Judy Nunn.

Author: Judy Nunn

It will all culminate in a special author session at the Words of the Waves Festival. Nunn is an incredible orator as well as one of the nicest, funniest and most generous authors with her time I have ever met.

She started her career on the stage, transitioning as a

repeated patterns, shapes, colours and anything else their creative minds envision.

The exhibition is open daily from 9.30am-4pm and will close at 3.30pm on Wednesday May 22.

The Central Coast Potters Society is a non-profit, community organisation of like-minded volunteers who love clay and has been

storyteller from actress to writer.

It all began with a casual conversation at a party in the early 1980s that led to a job writing for a new TV series called Neighbours.

It was storytelling with short, sharp twists and constant cliffhangers and Nunn was fascinated; she has never been afraid of hard work and wrote four books while still working on Home and Away.

Today, with more than one million copies of her books sold worldwide, Judy Nunn is one of Australia’s most successful authors.

Khaki Town is the first book by Judy Nunn that I have read.

She most certainly has a new fan – what an incredible book; I struggled to put this down.

The past few nights I have

active since 1968.

It runs courses for anyone interested in getting creative with clay, as well as memberonly activities such as raku and pit firings, member exhibitions and sales events.

Its workshop space provides the perfect environment for discovering and developing creativity in clay.

been immersed in the life of 1942s Townsville.

As you have probably guessed my preferred genre is crime and thriller but 2024 for me so far has been about branching out and reading different genres and definitely more Australian writers.

Khaki Town is an emotional book in so many ways; it made me cry, it made me laugh, it was inspiring and it made me so angry!

It is based on a true story, one that the government did not want told; the truth of what happened in World War II when Australia was on the brink of invasion from Japan, and Townsville in far north Queensland was a major hub for both Australian and American troops.

“Getting Hitched was our first ever wedding expo, so it definitely holds special meaning to us,” a spokesperson said.

“We love the fact that it is a Central Coast expo showcasing local wedding vendors, while supporting a local charity.”

This year Getting Hitched will welcome start-up Central Coast business, The Different Darling.

Milly Bakker-Meyers offers a unique style in wedding planning styling and coordination.

“Local expos allow couples to engage and converse with suppliers, without having to travel to Sydney or Newcastle,” she said.

Hitched was a gamechanger for planning a wedding, with 40 vendors expected to participate.

“With a wide variety of exhibitors, you can plan your whole wedding in one day,” she said.

Smithers Photography has been exhibiting since 2018.

“We’re excited to attend the Getting Hitched Wedding Expo this year to get to know other vendors in the area, as well as showcase our bold style to clients looking for a ‘different’ wedding.”

The Getting Hitched Wedding Expo will be held at The Gallery, Gosford RSL Club, on Sunday, June 16.

Vendor applications are still open and entry tickets including VIP packages are on sale at www. gettinghitchedexpo.com

The locals are loving the thriving economy, the Americans have plenty of money to spend on alcohol and girls and the local pub The Brown’s Hotel is packed to the rafters every night and day.

The owner Val Callahan is counting her money.

The Australians are accepting of all the visitors, although the Aussie men are jealous of the wealth coming from overseas

and the American military. Issues arise as racist leaders ensure that the black soldiers do not have an easy time of anything.

It is distressing to think that within this tale of war there were incidents around race relations, inequality, government policy and politics.

Khaki Town opens the reader’s eyes to a shameful and concealed chapter in our World War II history books.

Khaki Town is a historical tale told with conviction.

The authoritative voice of Judy Nunn reveals a story of inequality, racism, love, determination, personal strength and a closely guarded history from Australia’s wartime past and you can’t help but wonder why it isn’t yet on the big screen.

Khaki Town

Houses by Karin Krebs Photo: Chris Allen

More than 40 vendors will be at the wedding expo

Stunning collaboration at The Art House

Central Coast classical music lovers will be treated to a stunning collaboration by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, composer Nigel Westlake, award-winning singer/songwriter Lior, and vocalist Lou Bennett at The Art House in May.

Together they will perform Ngapa William Cooper, a composition paying tribute to the life of Yorta Yorta activist Uncle William Cooper

The Aboriginal activist played a pivotal role in establishing equal rights for Aboriginal

Australians and led the Australian Aborigines’ League protest against the events of Kristallnacht in Nazi Germany.

It follows the highly successful collaboration of Westlake and Lior on Compassion in 2013.

The new work is co-written and co-performed with Yorta Yorta Dja Dja Wurrung songwriter/composer Lou Bennett, who is also a direct descendant of Uncle William Cooper.

Sung in English and Yorta Yorta language, the story combines Westlake’s signature

Latin musical delight at Fun Haus

and energy of our music with audiences of all ages, creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty and diversity of Latin American culture.”

Born and raised in Mexico, Valdés is not only a master musician but also a distinguished ambassador of Mexican music and Hispanic culture.

Recognised with awards such as the Distinguished Mexican award from the government of Mexico and the Institute of Mexicans Abroad, his contributions to promoting

Latin music in Australia and worldwide have been lauded by the Embassy of Mexico in Australia.

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

Doors open at 5pm with $10 cocktail happy hour and Colombian Street Food Empanadas available for supper.

The show kicks off at 7.30pm.

Online bookings only at naughtynoodle.com.au/whats-

musical palette with moving vocals from Lior and Bennett to celebrate Cooper’s legacy of resistance, solidarity, and empathy.

These layers are all supported beautifully by the sounds of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

The Sydney Symphony Orchestra performs Ngapa William Cooper at The Art House at 7.30pm on Saturday, May 25.

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

The Victor Valdés Latin Quartet

Troubadour Central Coast will present two top Australian musicians at a special concert on May 25.

Ami Williamson and Nerida Cuddy will combine to delight audiences.

Williamson is the amazingly talented and very funny daughter of John Williamson, excelling in pretty much every branch of music you could think of.

Both her grandparents were classical singers and sang duets for ABC Radio in the 1930-60s.

She grew up listening to her

Two top Aussie songstresses

grandparents sing at home and on stage in musicals and classical oratorio.

Williamson pursued classical training as a singer/multiinstrumentalist, graduating from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and Ensemble Acting Studios.

She then won awards and scholarships overseas which led to her pursuing further classical studies in Germany and performing across Europe.

But it was her father’s songwriting that brought a creativity to the vocal tradition of the Williamsons.

She contrived a way of combining music and theatre.

Williamson has performed for the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and toured nationally with folk icon Eric Bogle.

She has played major festivals including Port Fairy Folk Festival, Woodford Folk Festival and the National Folk Festival as well completing several national tours and regular cruises.

Williamson will be supported by singer-songwriter Nerida Cuddy from Canowindra in the NSW central west.

Fresh from a tour of the NSW outback, she captures stories of our time in finely crafted lyrics and emotive melodies.

Performed from the heart with a social conscience and a sense of humour, her songs reflect emotional depth, breathing the landscape of rural Australia.

The concert will be at 7pm on Saturday, May 25 at the Everglades Club, Woy Woy.

For bookings go to www. trybooking.com/CQLCX

Details, performance videos and more are available at www. troubadour.org.au

Short+Sweet success for Copa playwright

Copacabana playwright

Sally Bartley has taken out the People’s Choice award at Short+Sweet 2024 with her play Three Sides to Every Story.

Thirteen short plays, each under 10 minutes in length, competed in the recent final of the competition in Sydney, now in its 21st year.

Directed by Daniel Maher and starring Ashley Fraser, Samuel Zerger and Henry Twomey, Three Sides to Every Story

showcased the uncomfortable and awkward side of adolescence and growing up in modern day.

Self-doubt and overthinking are experiences everyone goes through and the play shows how self-sabotaging these thought patterns can be.

It tackles the themes of fitting into a new crowd of people and struggling to come to terms with your sexuality, showing that people are not as alone and as

isolated as they think.

Bartley has been involved with community theatre on the Central Coast for more than 15 years.

A life member of Wyong Drama Group, she has performed in numerous productions, the most recent being To Kill A Mockingbird in 2023 where she played the adult Scout Finch narrating the play.

Her play Walk a Mile also featured recently in the

showcase final of Sage to Stage – a playwriting competition for seniors.

Bartley has had many of her short plays performed in festivals such as Short and Sweet (Sydney, Canberra and New Delhi), the Woy Woy Little Theatre Flash Festival, and the Port Players Festival of One Act Plays.

Her first full-length play, Illuminati, was recently presented by Uniting Productions in Gosford.

Ami Williamson; Nerida Cuddy

A scene from the play

5 Lands Walk returns in June

The 5 Lands Walk is set to return for its 19th year with activities from June 21-23 and the main walk on June 22.

Whether it’s a serious step out like the Camino de Santiago or the Kokoda Trail or simply a leisurely stroll through your local community along the beach or through a park, a walk gives you time to think, chat, reflect and to appreciate your surroundings.

Inspired by its namesake, Italy’s fabled Cinque Terra, the 5 Lands Walk is timed to correspond with the peak of the annual northerly whale

migration and is one of the Central Coast’s major annual events.

Each year the event attracts more than 20,000 participants including residents, families, groups of friends and visitors from across the state and overseas.

The walk celebrates all that is good about the Central Coast, from its rich cultural diversity to its stunning natural beaches and hinterland, along with talented artists and performers.

From humble beginnings the walk has grown bigger and better each year, thanks to hundreds of volunteer

organisers and sponsors.

“On behalf of the organising committee, I invite you to come along, hear the stories of our local indigenous and multicultural communities, be inspired, entertained and enlightened by our talented artists and musicians, and captivated by our stunning natural beauty,” 5 Lands Walk

President Pauline Wright said.

“Like so many thousands from previous years, you’ll be thrilled you took part, and we encourage you to bring your family, friends and community to share the experience.

“This amazing community

Central Coast writer repacks for Greece

festival is free, as is the public transport provided by Busways.

“It’s a stunning 10km coastal trek linking the 5 Lands of MacMasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal with art, music and culture.

“The Central Coast recently received a highly coveted global environmental tourism award.

“This year’s 5 Lands Walk celebrates and showcases that recognition, connecting people to people and people to place.”

The full program is available at www.5landswalk.com.au

Central Coast author Sally Jane Smith will launch her latest novel, Repacking for Greece: A Mediterranean Odyssey at a multi-author event on June 5 as part of the Words on the Waves Writers Festival.

A follow-up to her first novel, Unpacking for Greece, this latest book sees the author return to Greece with another amusing and insightful look at the country which has become close to her heart.

When a long-forgotten, apartheid-era arrest record derails her plans for a Canadian family holiday, Smith once again packs her mum’s 1978 travel diary and sets out solo for Greece.

As she journeys to the landmarks her mother once

visited — and discovers many more — the author immerses us in Greece’s awe-inspiring landscapes and fascinating heritage sites.

She delights in absorbing the country’s rich history and connecting the dots between legend, location and contemporary literature.

Repacking for Greece travels from an initial flashback 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 can be read either as a stand-alone 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 2023.

The cover features a very personal item: the scuffed red journal that has brought Smith closer to her mother’s memory. In the background stand the

Important changes in traffic conditions:

Please note on June 8 and 9 between 8am and 5pm there will be changes to traffic conditions including speed reductions in areas including Somersby, Kulnura, Peats Ridge and Wyong Creek for Harvest Festival 2024.

Please take care and drive safe.

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

“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.

“Repacking for Greece is about replenishment; it is about abandoning anxiety and finding joy.”

Smith has lived on five continents and visited 33 countries, but credits 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. The multi-author event launching Repacking for Greece will be at Tuggerah Library at 6.30pm on Wednesday June 5. It is a free event but registration is essential at wordsonthewaves.com.au/ book-launch-program-2024/

Notice of Aerial Spray Program

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting an aerial spraying program use Metsulfuron Methyl 600WG for the control of bitou bush. The program will be conducted between Monday 20 May 2024 to Sunday 2 June 2024 in Bouddi National Park and Munmorah State Conservation Area.

The operation is designed to control bitou bush infestations in remote and inaccessible locations.

Signs will be placed at the entry points to the spray locations and there will be no public access to these areas during the spray operation.

For more information please contact the local NPWS Girrakool office on (02) 4320 4200 or NPWS Munmorah office on (02) 4972 9000.

Sally Jane Smith with her new book

The event celebrates the region’s cultural diversity and stunning beaches

55. Racing driver, ... Mansell

57. Mouth-to-mouth, ... of life

60. One time

62. Birds of prey

65. Wax taper

67. Fall behind 69. Carreras or Domingo

70. Older person

72. I am, we ...

73. ESP, sixth ...

75. Leotard fabric

77. Visualise

79. In the neighbourhood

81. Pea shell

82. As a group, en ...

84. Proficient

85. Malaysia’s ... Lumpur

86. International trade fair

87. Approve officially

88. Positive votes

DOWN

1. Consumes food

2. By oneself

3. Human male 4. Indonesian isle

5. Undoubtedly 6. Ransacker 7. Moved in water

8. Annoy

9. Very angry

10. Electrical power unit

12. Horse’s cry 14. Four-door car

16. Holy book

19. Military trainee

MISSING LINK

MISSING

22. Scant

23. Roof channel

25. Cropped up

26. Strength

29. Frozen shipping hazard

32. Flavour enhancer (1,1,1)

35. Hanging bed

37. Spy, secret ...

38. Unattractive structure

40. Workers’ federation

41. Tennis ace, Rafael ...

42. Ancient artefact

43. Of warships

44. Billy & nanny

47. Roped (cattle)

51. Childish laugh

52. French caps

53. Bright hue, ... yellow

54. Noisier

58. Lead-in

59. Marine animal, ... urchin

61. Antidotes

63. Supermarket lane

64. Oozed

65. Chillier

66. Peruvian mammal

68. Summarise

71. Written composition

72. Cosmetics gel, ... vera

74. Brief letter

76. Coal residue

78. Congers or morays

80. Fuss

83. In the manner of (1,2)

Trevor Trumpet, A Tale of Biblical Absurdity

In today’s world of conflict and greed, could a random novice prophet, Trevor Trumpet, save humanity from itself?

Prophets have tended to focus on

and kindness towards other humans. So why is it that

abuse, and sheer exploitation of the vulnerable continue to persist?

This book introduces a new fictional prophet, Trevor Trumpet who gives it another go with the assistance of a NSW state premier, an expoliceman and a street woman, whilst being protected from above by Derek, The Foul Mouthed attack Dove.

Follow Trevor in his hilarious quest as he stumbles through media interviews, meetings with church leaders and visits to New Zealand and the US as he attempts to bring kindness to the world!

But will Trevor succeed? Read the book and find out!

Business & Property

A $90M development proposal to build Wyong’s first high-rise hotel tower to attract tourism of worldclass standard to the region will be heard for the second time in the NSW Land and Environment Court later this month.

Since the original proposal to build a 26-storey hotel was first lodged in 2022 the development has been met with opposition by most of the nearby residents, Central Coast Council, the Regional Planning Panel and the NSW Land and Environment Court (LEC).

The common objection is that the development is socially, aestheticallyandenvironmentally unacceptable, along with multiple issues of non-alignment with some planning controls.

There have been hundreds of submissions, with only a few

supporting the high-rise hotel, mainly for the viability and valueadd to Kooindah Waters estate as well as the potential for commercial enterprises and investment through tourism, events and conferences.

Following the LEC refusal in June 2023, amendments will be presented for another hearing set down for May 27-31.

Plans have been amended from the original 26-storeys with roof-top bar to a 23-storey building, including two levels of basement parking, restaurant, pool, bar and function centre with 80 serviced apartments and 83 residential units.

This is less than the original 97 serviced apartments and 98 residential apartments.

A new private road is also envisaged to deal with flooding evacuation access.

Carparking spaces have

• Divorces

• De facto

• Children's Issues

Plans for Kooindah Waters tower go to court

Artist’s

reduced from 453 to 209.

The overall Kooindah Waters estate at 50 Parry Pde and 40 Kooindah Bvde already comprises a championship golf course, Mercure Kooindah Waters Hotel with serviced apartments and more than 250 private homes.

Secretary of Kooindah Waters Community Association Jenny Walmsley says that the fundamental issues were the increase in population, flooding impacts, traffic and parking problems, and the massive height of the building not being in harmony with the surrounding low-lying residential area nor the bushland and natural scenic qualities.

“We always knew there would be development on lot 4 on the other half of the (existing) hotel and it would be all matched and low-lying with hotel accommodation only,” she said.

“A DA had been approved for a three-level place, and there was no opposition because that was all in keeping with what was planned.

“In about 2019 out of the blue we were approached with the notion of building a 28-storey building which threw everyone into a complete spin because of the implications for what was originally intended to be a residential estate with a boutique hotel catering for a golf course.

“We are opposed to building a massive high-rise in the middle of wetland … how do you build a 23-storey building on a swamp, because that’s what it is … everything (built) here was artificially raised by bringing in fill so the foundations are limited.”

Walmsley said flooding could be a problem and was concerned conclusions in the flood studies were based on modelling techniques.

• Property • Binding Financial Agreements WILLS & ESTATES

• Probate, Wills & Disputes

• Power of Attorney

• Enduring Guardianship

“Modelling is fine but you also need to have some actual observations,” she said.

“In the past two successive heavy downfalls there’s been particularly bad flooding at the peripheral areas like Pollock Ave and the water levels in the ponds (in the estate) are getting higher and higher when it rains.

“The same thing has happened with modelling in the traffic reports … they have totally under-estimated how the traffic is going to be controlled and when you live here you know what the problems are.

“There is no on-street parking, there is very limited space on the narrow estate roads … the development will have only the legal requirement in parking and that just won’t be enough, I think they’ll be short by about 100 spaces, so where are all those cars going?

CONVEYANCING

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business

• Leasing

• Retirement Villages

“If you put a big commercial entity right next to a quiet residential area there’s going to be an impact but it appears there is no social impact study (as part of the development application).

“This development is totally out of character with what we can sustain and what people living here are really comfortable with – already some people are saying that they’ll move if this goes ahead.

“Some people believe having this massive structure will increase their property values –I’ve got to say that the general view is that it would be nice to have our property values put up but not at the expense of quality of life and safety.”

Information about the Kooindah Waters tower proposal is on Council’s website (DA/1750/2022).

Sue Murray

COURT APPEARANCES

• Criminal Law

• AVO Matters

• Traffic Matters

• Drink Driving

Email: lemery@lindaemery.com.au

Web: www.lindaemery.com.au

Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford

impression of the hotel foyer

An artist’s impression of the proposed hotel

Moderate but welcome budget relief for small business

Further energy bill relief, a continuation of the instant asset write-off and a partial extension in employer incentives for apprentices are the most welcome short-term measures for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) on the Central Coast in the Federal Budget, says Business NSW Regional Director Scott Goold.

Goold said SMEs will receive welcome but moderate benefit from the Budget amid challenging business conditions.

“Business NSW welcomes the $325 in energy relief for small business owners on the Coast, who are struggling with spiralling bills,” he said.

“Business owners will also benefit from a continuation of the instant asset write-off of up to $20,000 and a partial continuation of apprenticeship rebates for employers.

“We know energy costs for Central Coast businesses pose a significant burden, ranking just behind insurance

and government fees and taxes.

“Most businesses on the Coast employ between one and 50 staff members and these businesses stand to gain the most from this initiative.

“However, the significant number of larger businesses with excessive energy costs and high payroll tax will be disappointed with the lack of structural reform.”

Goold said the modified stage three tax cuts commencing on July 1 offered

an average tax cut of $1,888 and should provide some positive relief for SMEs that had seen customers ease off on their spending.

“This tax cut relief will have an even greater impact on the Central Coast economy if consumers and businesses buy local, so let’s make sure we keep it on the Coast,” he said.

“Attracting and retaining skilled workers remains a key concern for businesses across the region so it is encouraging to see ongoing support for apprentices, essential workers and the construction industry.”

Goold said employers taking on apprentices in priority areas would be eligible for an additional $1,000 ($5,000 in total) to help subsidise costs associated with employing an apprentice.

Individual apprentices training in priority areas will be eligible for an additional $2,000 ($5,000 in total) to assist them to undertake and complete their training.

The Government will also

pay $8,300 for trainee nurses, teachers and social workers to do their six month mandatory training.

He said $90.6M had been committed nationally to boost the number of construction workers, including 20,000 new fee-free TAFE places and fast-tracked visa processing for about 1,900 potential migrants.

“The construction industry remains one of the largest employers on the Central Coast and demand for skilled workers will continue to grow given the surge in housing construction required,” he said.

“Central Coast businesses have also identified housing supply and housing affordability among the highest barriers to attracting and retaining skilled workers.

“Affordable housing close to where people work remains a critical priority for the Central Coast.”

Goold said it was encouraging to see $11.3B allocated towards building new homes. This includes $1B for roads,

sewers, energy, water and community infrastructure.

“It is essential local government works with the state and federal governments to ensure the Coast gets its share of infrastructure funding to support local housing growth,” he said.

Other infrastructure support specific to the Central Coast could come via the $40M regional airport incentive, Goold said.

Domestic manufacturing will also benefit through the Made in Australia initiative which involves a significant investment in local manufacturing capabilities ($22.7B over 10 years).

“The Made in Australia initiative focusses largely on incentives for the renewable energy sector and the diverse manufacturing base on the Central Coast, coupled with proximity to the Hunter region, may benefit our local economy through supply chain contracts for components, installation and servicing,” he said.

BUSINESS BRIEF

New real estate office

After adopting Avoca Beach as his forever home eight years ago, Chris Roumanous has opened his second real estate office in the region.

Just 14 months ago the team opened the neighbouring Ray White RPG – Saratoga office and it has quickly become one of the most trusted and successful businesses in the region.

“When I bought Saratoga, I knew early on that I wanted to expand into Avoca Beach,” Roumanous said.

“The sense of community here is unparalleled, and I am thrilled to be able to contribute to its growth and development.” Roumanous, who is raising his young family in the region, is actively involved in various local activities such as soccer, rugby and school events.

Ray White RPG – Avoca Beach will serve the needs of buyers and sellers, owners and renters in the community with a focus on strong communication and customer service.

ADVERTISEMENT

Business NSW Regional Director Central Coast Scott Goold

To some, it is a thin green line on a map but to the residents of Gwandalan that thin line defines their community.

Central Coast Council said 50W Parraweena Rd, Gwandalan, a strip of land running alongside Kanangra Dr and around the corner into Parraweena Rd, will be used to widen the road.

An area behind the strip is earmarked for Gwandalan Town Centre and residents believe that Council actually intends to sell the land to a developer.

Council paperwork states that a covenant on part of the land would be extinguished “via a separate process prior to proposed sale”.

Former school teacher Richard Miller spoke up for that thin green line at a public hearing on May 9 at Wyong Golf Club.

He said the land, actually 5,456sqm in total, was managed by the Gwandalan and Summerland Point Tidy Towns Committee and was a beautiful nature strip.

Picnic tables and open space is used by the community coming and going from the services within the so-called

A line that defines a community

industrial site in Parraweena St which houses 13 tenants including a gym, vet, doctor, and coffee.

The Tidy Towns volunteers look after 20 sites in the area with many gardens to show for their efforts.

“One of the things that sets us apart is our nature setback,” Miller said.

“It has been a feature for many many years; it is a

significant characteristic of the area and very very important to us,” he said.

He said if the town centre, the third such proposal, ever goes ahead, the entry to it should not be from Kanangra Dr which would be inappropriate.

He said entry would be from a new road to the south which has already been gazetted.

But if Kanangra Dr still needed to be widened, then the other

side of the road, which is home to council sewerage works, would be able to provide the space, he said.

Miller was one of a dozen people who attended the public hearing into seven parcels of land in the northern part of the Coast that Council wants to reclassify so the land can be sold or leased or used in ways not allowed under their current classification of “community”

land.

He also spoke on the reclassification of 20 Summerland Point Rd but was assured the land in question included only the area currently leased to the Sporties Club and not the entire area which included a heritage walkway maintained by the Tidy Town volunteers.

When Miller questioned those facts, Council conceded the

map on the website was incorrect and showed a much smaller area at the meeting.

“We’ve made a technical error; the heritage way is not involved,” Council said.

Another resident had questions about 13 Yaralla Rd, Toukley.

Council proposes to add the land to its affordable housing sites portfolio, either via sale or long-term lease.

It acquired the land for carparking in 1995.

The resident questioned where the local members of the senior citizens centre would park once that area was no longer available.

Another area, part of 6W Kemira Rd, Lake Munmorah, needs to be reclassified so it can become a road into a proposed development of 300 residential lots.

Residents were asked to put their concerns in writing ASAP to the council.

The meeting was the second held last week.

A meeting the previous evening dealt with two other lots of land, including the site of Gosford Bowling Club.

Merilyn Vale

Residents Scott Feneck and Richard Miller at the May 9 meeting; A map showing the strip of land in question

Medals galore for Yarramalong whisky distillery

Leading Australian whisky distillery, Amber Lane, has added two prestigious medals to its trophy haul, with major wins at the recent San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Yarramalong distillery received a Double Gold Medal for its soon-to-be-released Pineau 350 whisky and a Gold Medal for its Apera 100 whisky, due for release next week.

This is Amber Lane’s second consecutive stellar year at the San Francisco awards, with nods in 2023 for its Apera 87 (Double Gold medal) and Silk Road (Gold Medal), four gold medals from only four entries over the past two years; a 100 per cent gold medal success rate.

Founded in 2000, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition is the world’s largest spirits competition, recognising the best spirits globally.

This year, the competition attracted more than 5,500 entrants across 30 categories, which were judged by renowned experts with decades of industry experience.

Gold medals are awarded to “exceptional spirits that are near the pinnacle of achievement,” with double gold medals presented to entries that receive a gold medal by all members of the judging panel.

Amber Lane Distillery coowner Rod Berry said everyone at the distillery were absolutely thrilled with this year’s medals.

“It’s wonderful to be recognised on the global stage for our whiskies, particularly for the second year in a row,” he said.

“Every single Amber Lane Distillery release since September 2022 has won national and international gold medals.

“These new awards extend

our phenomenal record to the past nine distillery releases. I don’t know of another whiskymaker in the world with that track record.

“We’re incredibly proud of the calibre of whisky we’re making, and the feedback from both the public and the industry – it’s testament to our passion and dedication to producing high-quality whisky.”

Amber Lane Distillery is one of Australia’s most awarded whisky producers.

Since launching in-market in 2022, the distillery has quickly become renowned for its large premium barrels, longer maturation cycles and the careful application of principles learned from European distilling traditions.

Council’s DA approvals still lagging

Central Coast Council’s planning department still runs behind the state average in the time it takes to deal with development applications (DAs) despite a flying squad from the State assisting it.

Staff from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) sent to the Coast have helped with 200 homes but the funding for the dedicated flying squad is coming to an end, the department’s deputy secretary Monica Gibson said.

She was addressing the May 9 meeting of the Central Coast Chapter of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA).

Gibson said the state average as of February 2024 was 114 days for assessing DAs, up 11.8 per cent from January.

The average for Central Coast Council as of April 26 was 133 days.

For comparison, Lake Macquarie Council was 86 days and Liverpool was 266 days.

Gibson said the department would evaluate the flying squad program and discuss what to take forward with budget decisions to be made in

June for a range of high-DA councils.

Her comments to the UDIA came on the same day the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released the latest national Update of Building Approvals data.

In a press statement released after the meeting, the UDIA said the figures showed the Central Coast continued to fall short in delivering on its housing needs.

“The data also shows a worrying trend that building approvals are not improving and shows that all typologies are still well below their peak,” a UDIA spokesperson said.

Figures for the Coast showed 1,600 total approvals in the 12 months to March 2024 which was an eight per cent annual rise but a 31 per cent reduction compared to the January 2019 peak.

Of those, 800 were detached house approvals which was a four per cent annual rise but 29 per cent lower than the November 2021 peak.

Apartments rose by 31 per cent in the 12 months to March 2024 at 550 units but that was down 45 per cent compared to the May 2018 peak.

“The residential rental

A graph showing approval rates

vacancy rate is one per cent as of March 2024 (on the) Central Coast, well below the healthy 3 per cent target,” the UDIA spokesperson said.

“This indicates insufficient supply of housing to meet the current needs of the Central Coast community, which means the number the DPHI and Council are using to measure performance is too low.”

The UDIA says the DPHI has acknowledged that housing targets need to increase to meet the NSW Government’s commitments under the National Housing Accord.

DPHI will adjust the housing targets later this year, and the

UDIA expects the target for the Central Coast to go up.

The UDIA said its analysis of ABS data showed the Coast was capable of delivering more housing.

“In 2018 and 2021, the Central Coast saw higher building approvals across apartments and detached houses respectively, demonstrating the region is capable of performing well above current levels,” UDIA Central Coast Chair Allison Basford said.

“But today’s ABS figures … show we are no longer at peak housing performance on the Central Coast.”

The UDIA said it was working

to increase the attractiveness of the Coast for development investment.

As part of its advocacy with state and local governments to tackle the big issues to reduce the risk of investment, it has identified actions that will work to deliver better housing options when and where they are needed.

These include improving DA timeframes.

The time Council takes to deal with DAs has attracted a lot of criticism from the industry in recent years.

Some developers have DAs still with council after 300 to 600 days while others are taking their proposals to the Land and Environment Court after the “deemed refusal” period kicks in, meaning Council hasn’t made a decision after 40 days.

But if developers don’t take action within six months the window for a deemed refusal closes.

Council has also stopped regularly updating the community on DA times, arguing that the information is now available on the NSW Planning Portal.

Merilyn Vale

Community garden at Terrigal

Green Point Terrigal Community Services wants to establish a community garden on part of the 7ha at the intersection of Terrigal Dr and Duffys Rd,

A sub-group Terrigal Community Garden will form its own incorporated association prior to operation of the community garden.

It is likely to be located in a cleared lawn area next to the Terrigal 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre.

The community garden will comprise raised garden beds, composting areas, a small garden shed and a small water tank.

Members of Terrigal Community Garden intend that the project will encourage developing relationships with

Skin clinic

Dr Chaitanya Reddy wants to establish a specialist skin clinic to facilitate plastic surgery and related services at 27 Jarrett St, North Gosford. The development application (459/2024) being assessed by Central Coast Council says the clinic will operate for one to two days a week between 8.30am and 4.30pm.

The proposed specialist medical practice is surrounded by other healthcare services including Gosford Private Hospital, educational places and a childcare centre, multiple retail outlets and local shops, as well as residences.

Racetrack upgrade

The Entertainment Grounds has received $2M from Racing NSW to rebuild the “home turn” at the race track in Racecourse Rd, West Gosford. The work is aimed at making it safer and more conducive for racing, says a development application (557/2024) being assessed by Central Coast Council. A gradual gradient will be added to the home turn requiring the outside part of the turn to be filled in but there will not be any other alterations.

Public feedback about the project can be lodged on Council’s website until June 7.

Group home

Central Coast Council is assessing a development proposal to change a Mardi home into a permanent group home for four socially disadvantaged people or those with a disability. There will be extensive internal renovations to the property at 34 Woodbury Park Dr to provide multiple bathrooms and five bedrooms, including one for a live-in carer. An Operational Plan of Management and House Rules are in place which can be viewed on Council’s website (DA/433/2024).

The Rise

other community groups including local pre-schools, who have already expressed interest in the proposal, and there will be occasional information sessions coordinated through the 50+ Centre.

More details are available on the development application (485/2024) which is currently being assessed by Central Coast Council.

The Rise at Wood Glen retirement village in Karalta Rd, Erina, has been nominated for an award by The Property Council.

The Council’s National Retirement Living Conference 2024 will be held on the Gold Coast from June 26-28, where a range of awards will be presented.

The Rise at Wood Glen has been nominated in the category of Large Operator with 500 Independent Living Units.

Location of the proposed community garden

Amber Lane co-owner Rod Berry

Tripling the

Establishing two Medicare Urgent Care Clinics on the Central Coast. Medicare MRI license for Wyong Hospital. Securing the bulk billing incentive.

Our Medicare Urgent Care Clinics at Lake Haven and Umina are 100% bulk billed and open every day of the year.

The Labor Government secured a Medicare MRI license for Wyong Hospital. Locals now have access to subsidised scans closer to home.

We’ve tripled the bulk billing incentive –a $3.5 billion investment in Medicare. In just 5 months we’ve seen a 5.8% jump in bulk billing in Dobell.

Emma McBride MP Member for Dobell

204/1 Bryant

www.emmamcbride.com.au

Emma.McBride.MP@aph.gov.au (02) 4353 0127

DOWN IN THE GARDEN: Beginners Guide to a Garden

Everyone’s doing it so why not you?

This weekend may be the perfect time for you to get your hands dirty and start gardening or perhaps you are experienced and have an area that needs a new garden?

I’ve created a bit of a blueprint to lead any gardener, newbie to those needing a refresher, through the steps to start or start again.

Creating a garden is one of the great joys in life that bring so much more to the gardener than produce and beauty.

The health benefits are well known, all that fresh air and a healthy dose of physical exercise but gardening is also a good for the mind and soul.

I can’t tell you how many times I have buried my problems, metaphorically, in the earth at Lake Munmorah!

Gardening can sometimes seem hard, expensive, or overwhelming but if you plan, I promise, gardening will grow on you.

STEP ONE:

Assess the Lay of the Land

What have you already got?

Grab a note pad and roughly sketch up a plan of your garden area as it is.

Note the plants that you already have including trees.

Also sketch in areas that are

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established and include utility elements as well such as sheds.

If you already plan to remove anything, note that.

Work out the available light to all areas of your garden space.

Full sun means at least 6 hours of direct sun, part-shade is between 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight and shade will mean less than 4 hours of direct sun falling upon your plants.

The areas will change over the course of a year, so to get an accurate read you will need to create a sun map at least twice a season; around eight times a year.

To make things easier, there are phone apps or the free to use site - www.suncalc.org that will help you determine all the shadow and light areas right throughout the year in your garden.

Note other factors such as wind possibilities, the gradient, fences, other garden structures and the feeling you have about the garden now.

This is important to your final design.

If you already like the space then it’s a matter of simply adding what you need but if it’s not a part of your garden dreams, well there’s some additional design decisions you will need to make.

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

STEP TWO:

A Garden Wish List

What is it that you want in and from your garden?

Back to the note pad and create a list of what you want in and from your garden.

Here are a few ideas: a veggie patch, flower garden, a place to entertain, somewhere to read a

book and relax, a wildlife sanctuary, a beautiful view, a family/pet play area, a shed, compost & worm farm, chook run, trees, green/shade house, herb garden.

Write it all down for future reference.

This isn’t all going to happy this weekend or perhaps even

this month or even year but by noting all your wishes, you can decide what is a priority or achievable now.

Most importantly, this list will make sure that you leave room for additions later.

You don’t want to be pulling up a newish lawn to make way for a chook shed next year.

STEP THREE: Garden Style

Garden style is so often overlooked by beginner gardeners who jump in and quickly throw it all together.

Often, it’s in the second year or so, once the garden is getting established that they step back and notice that they might like a certain style to their garden.

A lot of time and money can be wasted if you don’t get a simple statement together that defines your garden style.

You may already know that you want a rambling cottage garden filled with traditionally perennial cut flowers, a kitchen herb plot, and a welcoming picket fence.

That’s great, write it down as this will make you think twice before purchasing those huge stunning sculptural cacti at the next plant fair.

If you can’t decide then pick up gardening magazines and books or hop onto the internet and create a collection of images that really make you feel ‘at home’.

Don’t collect images just because they are wonderful, but rather choose those that you can imagine living in.

Pretty soon a garden style will emerge, and you can use this when designing your garden, buying plants and other garden elements.

STEP FOUR:

Getting It All Together

First the soil will need to be assessed and improved if needed.

The greatest expense I have made in gardens has always been on soil and while it’s not as exciting as exotic plants, it shows down the track.

With a rich,healthy foundation, all gardens can grow to their potential.

Now you have your garden masterplan, start with one small area or task at a time.

If you are keen to grow edibles, pop in one garden bed or a couple of veggies and a few herbs.

Perhaps you need a hedge to define an entertainment area or provide a windbreak, start there or maybe this is the weekend you lay a lawn for the family.

At least with a plan and a wish list, you will stay on track while your ‘garden from scratch’ evolves around your home.

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

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

Lobelia

Vision impaired bowlers and other community groups who regularly use the facilities at Gosford Bowling Club will be severely disadvantaged if Central Coast Council reclassifies the site it sits on as proposed.

That was the very clear message to emerge from a meeting held at Erina on May 8, the first of two meetings to discuss the proposed reclassification of 10 parcels of Council land regionwide, with the second meeting held the following night at Wyong.

Council plans to reclassify the bowling club land to make it easier to sell to make way for “future development” of the waterfront precinct.

About 50 people attended, most of them friends of the bowling club, with 20 speaking up to urge Council to keep the site in community hands.

Dawn Moxham was one who spoke.

“It is my fervent hope that this reclassification does not go ahead,” she said.

“To say that the land will be rezoned for a higher purpose is insulting to the people who presently are using it.”

Urgent call to save bowling club

“Players come for fortnightly bowls days and other events from Epping, St Ives, Morisset, as well as all parts of the Gosford regional area,” he said.

“Research has shown that blind and low vision adults over the age of 65 are in greater danger of social isolation than non-impaired people.”

He said it could not be stated strongly enough how important this safe haven was to visually impaired members.

“Research shows that people over a certain age are more prone to falls and this worsens if their core body strength weakens,” he said.

“Visual impairment exacerbates this.

“Bowling requires balance and levels of mobility and activity which promote this body strength.

“If the present location of the bowling club is lost, it is very possible that this extremely important community hub will be broken up.”

The next speaker, Bill, explained that he was totally blind.

He lives at West Pennant Hills and comes to Gosford Bowling Club every fortnight to play social bowls and to practise for events such as state championships.

Her thoughts were echoed by another speaker, Jordan, who said Gosford was presently the biggest bowling club for blind and low vision people in Australia.

“I am able to travel unaided from my home at West Pennant Hills because the Gosford club is so near to the railway station,” Bill said.

“If this land is resumed by Council and the bowling club is closed down, I won’t be able to participate in the social activity which is so important for my physical and mental wellbeing.”

He said he would lose every important social contact he had formed over the past few years.

Another speaker, Margaret, said she knew no-one when she moved from Orange in the Central West 18 months ago after retiring.

“My next door neighbour is a volunteer at the Gosford Vision

Australia office and, because I was a teacher of visually impaired children for 15 years, and because I had no friends here I decided to offer to volunteer as well,” Margaret said.

“I was asked to help with the bowling group at Gosford Bowling Club and have been doing this now for 14 months.

“It is such a wonderful group of people – both visually impaired players and the members of the bowling club who offer their time and expertise unstintingly,” she said.

She said she looked forward to the fortnightly social games and had watched the skill levels of the players steadily

increase with the corresponding increase in feelings of social confidence and physical fitness.

“I cannot comprehend why Council would consider taking this wonderful resource away from the Central Coast when it is already lacking in sufficient green space,” she said.

Bowler Marc lost his sight in a motocross accident in Western Sydney when he was 14 years old.

He said if the club could not continue in its present location there would be many members who would not be able to attend blind bowls anymore and this would be very sad for all concerned.

“I hope Council reconsiders what they are doing,” he said.

“I also want to say that I’m a proud and committed member of the blind and visually impaired community here on the Central Coast and a volunteer for Gosford Vision Australia who do so much to improve the quality of life for its blind and visually impaired members.”

Gosford City Women’s Bowling Club president Heather McColl, who is also one of the co-ordinators of the all-ability bowls program, said Gosford had the largest group of vision impaired bowlers in any club in Australia.

Also Coastlink, Aruma and Life Without Barriers bring their clients for free weekly bowling activities, she said.

No other club on the Coast has a green that is accessible for standard wheelchairs.

A group of men with Down Syndrome and acquired brain injuries has been coming to the greens for the past eight years to play bowls at no cost.

Eight local high schools use the club for school sport and district competitions and barefoot bowls is offered to local businesses, families and community groups.

Last season more than 1,000 people came to the club to play barefoot football with many of the groups from businesses in the immediate area, McColl said.

A report on both meetings will be tabled at an upcoming Council meeting, possibly in June or July.

Under the Gateway determination from the State Government, which outlines the procedure for the changes, Council has until August to finalise its plans and submit them to the State for approval. With Council elections due in September, the Council will operate under caretaker mode from August until the elections.

Merilyn Vale

From left: Violeta Lucas and Debbie Moxon (back), Dawn Moxham, Margaret Ellis, Marc Tripolone and Jacqueline Batty (front)

Absolutions Group, a local construction company committed to community engagement and excellence, has completed upgrades to multiple communal Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) facilities areas at Gosford and Tuggerah.

Upgrades enhance internal functionality and revitalise external spaces, providing an inspiring environment for staff and visitors.

The Indigenous-owned and operated organisation, based at Erina, was tasked with upgrading the meeting room, group education room, external deck and consultation rooms within the Nunyara Aboriginal Health Unit in Gosford, along with the meeting room and waiting room within Ngiyang (The Aboriginal Pregnancy & Child & Family Health Service) at Tuggerah.

Indigenous artwork has been incorporated into the newly refurbished Nunyara Aboriginal Health Unit, underscoring Absolutions Group’s dedication to supporting local talent and

New look for health facilities

celebrating Indigenous culture.

Contemporary Aboriginal artist and Bidjara Gamilaroi woman Bianca Meiklejohn, who is also a valued member of the CCLHD at the Nunyara Aboriginal Health Unit, was selected to showcase her artwork within the facility.

“Bianca’s artwork adds a unique and culturally significant touch to the space,” Absolutions Group Managing Director Joel Singles said.

“We are honoured to have been able to work with her to

enhance the communal spaces at the Nunyara Aboriginal Health Unit.”

Meiklejohn’s artwork, carefully crafted to reflect her heritage and contemporary artistic vision, has been transformed into a huge stunning wall decal, becoming a focal point in the newly refurbished unit.

This collaboration not only highlights the importance of Indigenous representation but also fosters a sense of pride and belonging within the community.

Meiklejohn said her artwork, Together on Country, represents the Nunyara Aboriginal Health Unit’s connection to Darkinjung Country and our responsibility to care for the land, our community and our networks.

“The colours are a reflection on the land we work and live on, the ocean and coastal environment,” she said.

“Each handprint symbolises a unit member; we all come from different countries and now come to call this country our home.

“The centre circle embodies community, embracing families, children and educators, allowing us to connect to mob, yarn and unite.

“The green circles denote sacred meeting places between bushland and the lines illustrate our mob’s bond from bush to ocean.”

Absolutions Group has also sponsored Meiklejohn as a player for the Toukley Hawks football team.

The initiative aims to further empower Indigenous voices and promote inclusivity in sports.

The refurbishment project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.

“We are thrilled with the outcome of this project and proud to have contributed to the enhancement of the Central Coast Health District’s facilities,” Singles said.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work and collaboration of all parties involved.”

Helping students find future careers

As Australia celebrates National Careers Week from May 13-19, careers adviser Melissa Parrish from Lisarow High School features in a new promotional video compiled by the NSW Department of Education.

Parrish, who has been working in the field for about 17 years, said one of the main attractions of the role was how varied it was.

“You can be working with students one-on-one, you can be teaching careers education in the classroom or you can be delivering presentations to target groups,” she said.

“The thing I enjoy most is working with industry and community to give students opportunities to work in various industries to help them work out their future occupation.”

Parrish said she enjoyed helping to guide students in the right direction.

“Students might have specialised areas of interest, they might be creative or scientific, and I suggest careers linked to those areas –sometimes they are jobs they didn’t even know were available,” she said.

Also featured in the video is a former student, now a commissioned artist, who talks about how advice received from Parrish helped shape her career.

“I love collaborating and linking industry experiential learning to syllabus outcomes to enhance student engagement,” Parrish said.

She takes a highly collaborative approach to the career education program at Lisarow High School and has developed sustainable partnerships to deliver vocational and enterprise learning, career and transition, workplace learning and vocational education programs

for all students.

“With students unlikely to follow a single career trajectory across their lifetimes, it is paramount that we equip students with selfmanagement skills to enable them to meet the demands of the ever-changing workforce and promote lifelong learning,” she said.

“As a careers adviser, I love the fast-paced, dynamic

environment, which allows me to partner with and support faculty, teams, other schools and the wider community to benefit our students.”

Parrish currently leads the Central Coast Careers Advisers network and designs professional learning workshops for meetings based on her research around industry growth areas specific to the Central Coast region.

Being a careers adviser is a dynamic and demanding job.

Each day they navigate a myriad of tasks, from providing one-on-one student support to disseminating the latest career information, teaching career education classes, coordinating career events and facilitating education-to-work transition programs.

Careers Advisers are qualified secondary teachers who have completed an approved course of study in careers education.

National Careers Week celebrates careers, career development, career development services and career development practitioners and promotes career development’s economic, social, and personal benefits.

It is an initiative of the Career Industry Council of Australia.

For more information go to careersweek.com.au

GP issues warning to smokers

A Central Coast GP has issued a warning about the possible long-term effects of smoking and urged smokers to be tested.

Dr Ruben Karalasingham of the Entrance Medical Centre said the Central Coast has the highest smoking rate in NSW.

“It also has the highest

incidence of lung cancer in NSW,” he said.

“Due to smoking for over 30 years, people (can) develop chronic obstructive airways disease (COPD).

“There is a lot of undiagnosed COPD on the Central Coast.

“If they approach their GP, smokers can access spirometry

and be diagnosed with this condition and treated with good inhalers (puffers) early.

“Visiting professor Richard Russel from the UK emphasised this to us at Terrigal on March 21.”

Karalasingham said early diagnosis and treatment can give good quality of life and reduce mortality from COPD.

Nominate a Medicare champion

Nominations are open for the Australian Government’s Stronger Medicare Awards and Member for Dobell Emma McBride is encouraging Central Coast entries.

There are just under two months left to submit a nomination for the awards which recognise the contributions of people working in Australia’s primary care sector.

“Every day, there are Australians working in primary care who make a positive difference to our health, our lives, our families and our communities,” McBride ssaid.

“Nominating them for a Stronger Medicare Award is your chance to acknowledge their efforts and show them how deeply they are appreciated.

“This is our chance to say thanks to those frontline workers who go above and beyond and recognise these Medicare Champions.”

Primary care is the first port of call for Australians when they have a health complaint – from general practice to allied health, mental health and so much more.

If you know someone –working alone or as part of a team – who provides exceptional care or embraces innovation, nominate them as a Medicare Champion.

Since Medicare’s introduction in 1974, primary care workers have helped millions of people across the country and saved thousands of lives.

“There is a new treatment called triple therapy,” he said.

He also warned that lung cancer can be hidden as the chest is a big cavity and symptoms from lung cancer may not show up early.

“So, if one has smoked over 30 years, they need to see their GP and be screened for lung cancer,” he said.

Medicare Champions go above and beyond to improve the health of their patients and people in their community. Submit your nomination at www.health.gov.au/news/ nominate-now-for-thestronger-medicare-awards Nominations close on Sunday, June 30, with recipients to be announced at a ceremony in Canberra in November.

Melissa Parrish at Lisarow High School

New look for health facilities

Member for Dobell Emma McBride

Dr Ruben Karalasingham

Life-changing scholarships for three of Coast’s brightest

Three Central Coast students have been awarded life-changing Harding Miller Education Foundation scholarships.

Scholarships are awarded to students at the start of Year 9, and at the end of Year 10 the recipients are invited to reapply for another two years of support.

The four years of scholarship support is valued at more than $20,000.

This year’s recipients are Vivian Ding from Gosford High School, Jordyn Bailey from Northlakes High School, and Abby Peterson-Hampshire from Terrigal High School.

“As a young carer, this scholarship means so much to me,” Abby said.

“I’ve only been a part of this program for a few weeks and I already feel so supported.

“I’ve always been incredibly academically driven in all areas and I have huge aspirations for my future.

“I’m a public speaker and debater, and I love speaking and advocating for what I believe in, so becoming a lawyer or doing some other kind of role where I can improve the lives of others is a career goal.

“I’m currently preparing for the regional final for the Legacy Public Speaking Competition speaking on a topic I’m very passionate about.

“I love learning and my studies mean a lot to me so being able to have this incredible support system so that I can have the best chance of achieving my goals is incredible.”

Harding Miller scholarships are provided to female students who show high academic potential and who are currently experiencing low socioeconomic circumstances.

Each scholarship recipient

receives a new laptop, highspeed internet, face-to-face and online tutoring, online homework assistance, prepaid expense cards to cover school essentials such as textbooks and excursions, as well as study skills resources and a personal coach to guide them over the four years of the scholarship.

Harding Miller Education Foundation Chief Operations Officer Caroline Hill said the Foundation was proud to be providing vital support to help promising young girls reach their full potential.

“We are so pleased to

announce the Central Coast students as some of the scholarship recipients for 2024,” Hill said.

“The Foundation’s vital support for high-potential young girls experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage has become even more critical as our country faces increased pressures with higher costs of living.

“Our scholarship recipients are bright, talented and engaged but don’t currently have the resources they need to make the most of their educational opportunities.

“The scholarship provides

them with tangible items and practical things that give these young women a hand to complete their high-school education and take advantage of tertiary opportunities.

“Our scholarships offer more than just a financial boost.

“Our scholars are also paired with a volunteer coach who provides them with mentorship throughout the year.

“This support can often be the difference between continuing education or dropping out for an uncertain future.

“We encourage any other local young girls who may need support to consider applying for a Harding Miller Education Foundation scholarship this year.”

Since its launch in 2015, Harding Miller has supported more than 1,200 scholarship recipients in 350 plus public Australian high schools.

Applications for scholarships for 2025 will open from July 15 to September 18.

To find out more information, get involved, or support the Harding Miller Education Foundation, visit www.hardingmillereducation foundation.org.au

Flu shots for aged

Residents in aged care and disability homes are now eligible to have free flu and other National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines at the homes, administered by pharmacists.

The Federal Government’s National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy Program (NIPVIP) ensures more Australians have convenient and affordable access to lifesaving vaccines with no outof-pocket expenses.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid is encouraging everyone on the Central Coast, particularly those in aged care or disability homes, to get vaccinated against the flu.

The new support for pharmacists commenced on Monday, April 29, to enable vulnerable Australians to receive free vaccines to protect them from COVID-19 and influenza ahead of Winter.

Appointments can be booked with doctors, community health centres, Aboriginal health services and pharmacies. More information is available at www.health.gov.au

“We’re taking on the world in France”

Vivian Ding, Jordyn Bailey and Abby Peterson-Hampshire

Women’s soccer is really taking off on the Central Coast in the wake of the Matildas frenzy of last year.

Central Coast Football (CCF) CEO Alex Burgin said there had been “extraordinary growth” in registration numbers all over the region in the past 12 months.

“Certainly, the Matildas’ success in the World Cup had an effect, but there is a combination of factors here on the Central Coast,” he said.

“There was the Men’s World Cup and then we had the Mariners men coming into this year off the back of a win in the A-League last season and a women’s team rejoining the A-League for the first time in some years.

“All of this has combined to elevate interest in the game, especially at a junior level.

“Overall female participation in club soccer is up 20 per cent on last year and MiniRoos registration, for girls from Under 5 to Under 12, has risen by 28 per cent.

The Central Coast Crusaders hosted both the Canberra Gunners and Canberra Nationals on Saturday, May 11, and came away with split results.

The Crusaders men were up first at 5pm against the Gunners, who are historically one of the stronger teams in the league

They sit atop the ladder with eight wins and one loss.

It was an unusual first quarter for Robbie Heath, going just one of seven from the field, which allowed the Gunners to build up a big 41-24 lead going into the second half.

Things largely remained the same with captain James Trustum having his own

Women’s soccer taking off on the Coast

“Female only teams on the Coast have more than doubled, from 57 to 117, in the past year.”

Burgin said CCF had done much work, specifically on the women’s game, knowing there would be a boom off the back of the World Cup.

“We have implemented a few programs and initiatives this

shooting struggles.

year to help drive growth,” he said.

“We have expanded our girls’ only divisions from Under 5s all the way up to Over 35s.

“Every girl aged five, six or seven receives gear valued at $100 upon registration.

“More than 2,700 kids have so far received a ball, bag, shinpads and water bottle.”

CCF has also developed a Girls Development Program –an eight-week intensive training program for Under 9-Under 12 girls designed to bolster youth development in the region.

The program will run three times throughout the year.

“We had 100 girls for the first session and are expecting 120

for the next one,” Burgin said.

“It’s all about helping that next generation of talent develop through extra training and skill sessions with high level coaches.”

CCF has also introduced the first Over 35s women’s competition for the region.

“The Men’s comp for over 35s has been around for a number of years and we wanted to provide that same space for women wanting to play who might have family restrictions,” he said.

“We are running that comp on Friday nights.”

“We have six teams in the comp, with almost 500 players registered.”

For the 2024 season, all returning and new female referees received free registration, referee shirts, shorts, polo shirt and track pants.

“We are trying to build numbers of female referees,” Burgin said.

“Last year we had nine – this year there are 42; it’s the most we’ve ever had.”

Mixed results for Crusaders

Canberra took advantage of the Crusaders’ shooting woes with veteran William Bates being the only player on the home-side with a +50 per cent field goal percentage.

The game was never really in doubt, finishing with a 97-67 win for Canberra, a massive blow for the home fans as the Crusaders had the opportunity to deal the Gunners their second loss of the season.

The Crusaders remain in 12th spot with three wins and five losses, but with plenty of time left in the season, a spot in the top eight is absolutely viable.

Next up the Crusaders women looked to continue their dominant season with their matchup against Canberra

A move to cancel the women’s reserve grade competition attracted some flack after last season, but Burgin said it had been prompted by feedback from a lot of clubs struggling to attract enough women to field both first and second grade teams, prohibiting them from participating.

“We have introduced a Women’s Division 1 in addition to the Premier 1 in place of a reserve grade competition and this has seen an increase in club participation,” he said.

“Last year we had seven clubs registered in the top tier women’s comp – there are now 13.”

In terms of overall growth, Burgin said 2024 has the most players in Central Coast Football history, with 15,690 men and women registered. The number of teams has risen by 146 to 1,385 and 13,003 fixtures have been scheduled for the 2024 season – an average of 700 games per week.

Nationals tipping off at 7pm.

Debuting at the center position, new signing Kristina Moore, who had a stellar season last year with the

Boom in the first division in Belgium, quickly got to work for the Crusaders.

It was a tight match with the Crusaders taking a narrow 43-

39 lead going into the break which remained the narrative for the rest of the night as they fought hard to keep their lead.

The combined experience and veterancy of Mitchell, Dombkins and Forcadilla gave the Crusaders a mental edge as they fended off the Nationals and closed out a 92-79 win at home.

Moore’s debut was the key takeaway of the game as she dropped 23 points and grabbed seven boards on an efficient 52 per cent from the field.

Moore’s transfer to the Crusaders seems like the final piece in their bid to take home the championship this season as she rounds out the now loaded level of talent and experience the Coast team has.

The Crusaders women remain in fifth place with a six win and two loss record and they show no signs of slowing down as the season heads into full swing.

The Crusaders take to the road this Saturday, May 18, with their matchup against rivals Newcastle at Newcastle Basketball Stadium shaping up to be a big one.

The women tip off at 5pm as they take on the third placed Falcons with a chance to deal them their second loss on the season, while the men have a great chance to steal a win on the road with tip off at 7pm against 13th placed Falcons.

TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm

Phantoms

Stefan Kataric

Darneka Rowe in action

Interest in the game is escalating, especially among young girls

Photo: LookPro Photography

SPORT

BRIEFS

Rugby resumes

With all rugby matches cancelled on Saturday, May 11, due to wet ground conditions, Round 5 of the Central Coast Rugby Competition will now be played this Saturday, May 18.

The match of the day will see the Razorbacks travelling to Heazlett Park to take on Avoca Beach in what should be a closely fought match.

Gosford will host Lake Macquarie at the Gosford Showground.

Lake Macquarie lost in a close one two weeks ago against Warnervale, so they are a very tough opposition.

Warnervale will host Woy Woy at Woongarah Oval and go in as favourites.

Terrigal have the bye in Premier 1 rugby.

In the Central Coast Women’s 12s competition Terrigal meet The Lakes, Woy Woy and Warnervale play each other and Avoca Beach meets the Razorbacks at home.

In the President’s Cup, Warnervale meet Kariong, Terrigal play The Lakes, Avoca Beach and the Razorbacks meet and Lake Macquarie and The Bay face each other.

Young athletes awarded Commonwealth Games grants

Four young Central Coast athletes have been announced as 2024 Commonwealth Games NSW Athlete Grant winners.

A total of 40 athletes from 22 different sports will be awarded a $1,000 grant.

The Central Coast recipients are Ella Carr of Matcham, (Hockey NSW), Tara French of Forresters Beach (Cricket NSW), Levi Lipman of Blue Haven, (Judo NSW) and Abbie McTeare of Gorokan (Boxing NSW).

“These young athletes have demonstrated tremendous ability in their respective pathways,” CGNSW CEO Peter Tate said.

“Like many previous award winners, I’m confident quite a

few will be chosen to represent Australia in future Commonwealth games.”

Tara French, who was the sole recipient from Cricket

NSW, has represented NSW Country in National Youth Championship sides, and has again been selected into the U19 Female NSW Country

academy squad for season 2024-25.

French was also named as a Tier Two scholar in the Basil Sellers Emerging Player

Program for 2023-24.

“Tara is a talented athlete with great potential as a fast bowler,” Cricket NSW high performance coach – Female Pathways Sarah Aley said.

“Her progress over the past two years within the Cricket NSW pathway has been fantastic to watch and we hope that this grant will continue to help her grow and develop as an athlete and push for higher honours in the years to come.”

Athletes were nominated by their respective State Sporting Organisations from their talented programs.

Nominating criteria requires the athlete to be a resident of NSW and under 20 years of age.

Women bowlers converge on Bateau Bay Bowls Club

Bowls NSW has announced the NSW teams to contest the NSW State Division 4 Women’s Pennant Finals at Bateau Bay Bowling Club.

The teams coming to challenge the Bateau Bay Central Coast Champions are: Ballina, Westport, Gunnedah, Cabramatta, Portland, Hamilton North, Bowral, Mollymook Beach, Merimbula, Lake Cargelligo, West Dubbo. South Coogee, Belrose, and Toongabbie.

Bateau Bay Club has provided welcome packs for each of the visiting clubs to assist in finding accommodation, travel arrangements, meals and of

course the highlights of our wonderful Central Coast.

The Bateau Bay women have been busy training and practising for the games ahead as they prepare to take on the visitors.

Games begin on Tuesday morning, May 21 when Bateau Bay will face Ballina, Westport and Gunnedah in the preliminary rounds of section one.

Only the teams placed first and second will progress to the quarter finals on Wednesday afternoon which will be followed by the semi-final and final on Thursday, May 23.

Car Boot Sale

Tara French in action

Back row: Greg Larkin (Manager), Gloria Webb, Pauline Williams, Jennifer Bessant, Julie Larkin, Rhonda Barbat Front row: Jennifer Robertson, Rosie Moore, Maureen Jameson, Noelene Barkas, Kerry Davidson, Trevor Chalklin (Club Coach)

A Gosford grand final is now within reach

A home grand final in Gosford is now a distinct possibility, something that would undoubtedly lead to a massive sell-out crowd.

The Central Coast Mariners, in collaboration with the Australian Professional Leagues (APL), have confirmed that if the Mariners advance to the 2024 Isuzu UTE A-League

Mariners teammates celebrate their 2-1 win in the first semi-final leg against Sydney FC.

Grand Final, the match will be held at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium, marking the venue’s debut as a grand final host.

The Mariners face a challenging path through the semi-finals, meeting Sydney FC in a two-legged home and away showdown. With a hard fought 2-1 win

against Sydney FC in Sydney on Friday, May 10, the Mariners are now in a commanding position to win the semi-final on aggregate.

The outcome of the second leg of the semi-final series will be decided on Saturday, May 18, at 7.45 pm at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium. Should the Mariners succeed,

they will host the grand final on May 25 at 7.45pm in Gosford, with their opponents being either Wellington Phoenix or Melbourne Victory.

Should this occur, it will be the first time the region has hosted a national grand final in a professional sporting code, something that will have the eyes of the nation firmly focused on the region.

The Mariners will be hoping to take out the trifecta, having already been crowned 2024 A-League Premiers and clinching the AFC Cup 2023/24 title by narrowly defeating Lebanon’s Al Ahed FC 1-0 at Sultan Qaboos Sports City recently.

The Mariners are the second Australian team to win an AFC title, following Western Sydney

2024 Central Coast Volunteer expo

The Erina Centre, Erina Fair

Wanderers’ triumph in the AFC Champions League a decade ago.

This year’s final marked the end of the AFC Cup in its current form; it will be replaced by a three-tier competition structure next season - the AFC Champions League Elite, AFC Champions League 2 and AFC Challenge League.

10:00am - Doors Open

Wednesday 22nd May 10:00am - 1:30pm

Interested in volunteering?

Bookings NOT required.

Meet with a wide variety of not-for-profits who are looking to engage volunteers.

10:45am - Bridge to Volunteering Talk (45mins)

This session is aimed at those new to volunteering. Discussing the basics to set you up for success.

12:00pm - Wellbeing & Boundaries for Volunteers Talk (45mins)

1:30pm - Doors Close

Come to the FREE Expo and speak with local organisations about current opportunities to volunteer give back to your local community get on-the-job experience

Join our industry expert in discussing maintaining personal wellbeing and how to thrive in the not-for-profit sector.

Volunteering is a great way to...

earn new skills and meet people

improve your health and wellbeing

Photo: CCM Media