Coast Community News #457

Killcare brings in flexible rosters for surf lifesaving volunteers

page 10

The community is calling for a fast solution to the crisis created by Community Transport Central Coast Limited (CTCCL) ceasing operations.

The sudden closure on Friday, September 20 with less than 24 hour notice to both staff and customers includes the Shirley Shuttle which has helped more 4,000 customers over the years.

Local politicians are scrambling to try to assist the families who have been left in the lurch by the sudden demise of the not-for-profit company which gets two thirds of its revenue

from the State Government.

CTCCL said it would operate skeleton staff until September 27 to liaise with its customers to make alternative transport arrangements but its phone number is not answering and its website is down.

As well as paid staff, the operation had a team of volunteers.

“During the past year our volunteers contributed tirelessly driving for a combined 908 shifts, totalling 6,940 hours and travelling 113,052 km,” the CTCCL annual report for financial year 2023/24 states.

In a notice to community members on September 19, the company said it had been experiencing operational challenges which had placed significant pressures on the commercial viability of its services for some time.

Members Voluntary Liquidation from September 23, 2024 and to cease normal operations from September 20, 2024,” the notice said.

“The Board and management have been working tirelessly to address these operational challenges,” a notice to the community said.

Unfortunately, due to external factors it is apparent that CTCCL is not able to continue its operations.

“As such, the Board has made the difficult decision to place CTCCL into

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris, and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, said that Transport NSW was informed on September 19 that CTCCL would cease operations the next day, giving less than 24 hours’ notice.

They said there had been no indication beforehand that this would happen.

Rescue techniques from over the past 70 years were on display at the celebrations

Seven decades of surf lifesaving were celebrated last weekend when more than 400 past and present members and friends of Toowoon Bay Surf Club gathered to celebrate

Photo: Tc Nguyen

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Shock closure of Community Transport made worse by secrecy

The sudden and shocking closure of the Community Transport Central Coast (CTCC) service last Friday has sent waves of distress across the region.

Without any prior notice to staff or the hundreds of vulnerable residents who rely on this essential service for health appointments, grocery trips, and other vital transport needs, management abruptly decided to halt operations.

many affected individuals who seek answers.

Instead, they have issued vague and obtuse statements blaming workers’ enterprise bargaining issues and external financial difficulties for the sudden closure.

closure extend far beyond inconvenience.

For many, CTCC was a lifeline, especially for those with limited mobility or without alternative transport options. It is now critical for the State Government to step in and restore a fully operational service for our region.

CCN reserves the right to use, or not use, any material sent to us for publication and to validate, amend, update, expand or reduce the information provided at our sole discretion and in accordance with our editorial guidelines.

Material that is offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published. All contributions should be emailed to the above email address.

Managing Editor: David Abrahams

Print Editor & Senior Journalist: Terry Collins

Journalists: Sue Murray, Denice Barnes, Merilyn Vale

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Contributors: Cheralyn Darcey, Stefan Kataric

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This decision not only showcases a blatant disregard for the community but exposes a deeply concerning level of managerial incompetence.

CTCC’s management has made itself completely uncontactable, refusing to engage with the media or the

However, sources seen by CCN reveal that CTCC has been suffering financial losses for more than a year, making this abrupt shutdown seem more like a textbook case of poor and arrogant management.

Managers must manage, not abandon ship when the going gets tough.

The implications of this

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris assures us that Transport for NSW is urgently searching for a new operator, and we sincerely hope they find a solution quickly.

In the meantime, there is a glimmer of hope amidst this chaos.

The Shirley Shuttle, previously operating under

the wing of CTCC, has stepped up to fill some of the void. The Shirley Shuttle has demonstrated the true spirit of community service by reorganising its volunteerdriven vehicles. Their initiative is commendable and serves as a reminder that, in times of crisis, grassroots organisations often hold our community together.

This kind of selfless dedication keeps the Central Coast moving, even when larger systems fail. We can only hope that government action will be swift and decisive to restore this vital service to our community.

Renowned shipbuilder celebrates his 100-year milestone

Like the many metal-hulled yachts he has built Harry Westerdyk is still going strong as he celebrated his 100th birthday on Friday, September 20.

The retired boatbuilder still lives independently on his Wamberal acreage, accompanied by his dog Mater.

An unfinished Dutch canal boat in the yard, a retirement project, is a reminder of his exceptional skill working with metal.

Harry’s yachts were serious business, competing over the years in the Sydney to Hobart, Brisbane to Gladstone, Melbourne to Devonport and other ocean races.

His first yacht sold in the 1960s, now known as the Cadenza, is still at sea.

These days Harry’s mind is still sharp and he’s an avid

reader but he has mobility challenges and is restricted to a walker.

Harry’s son Robbert, of Terrigal, said his dad was a devoted family man who has three children, nine grandchildren and 20 greatgrandchildren with one more on the way.

Sadly his wife Vicky passed in 2002, aged 79.

“We all feel blessed to see him reach this milestone,” Robbert said.

“A few years back we thought we had lost him after a fall in the house.”

Born in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands, in 1924, Harry was jailed by the Nazis during World War II and suffered torture at the hands of the Gestapo.

In 1953 he left war-torn Holland for Burnie, Tasmania,

with his new bride Wietske, or Vicky as she became known, and little more than his panelbeater skills.

The couple had three children Robbert, Maryke of Perth, and Harry junior of Forresters Beach.

Robbert recalls that his father could fix anything, especially if it involved metal, and as a hobby Harry began building boats and selling them.

In the 1960s Gosford builder Peter Rysdyk, a fellow Dutchman who became one of Australia’s best-known yachtsmen, heard of Harry’s shipbuilding prowess and purchased one.

The red-hulled sloop designed by Frons Maas, named Onya of Gosford (now Akoona), became an entrant in the 1971 Sydney to Hobart race.

It changed Harry and his family’s life.

Rysdyk invited Harry to relocate his shipbuilding to West Gosford which meant his hobby could be a full-time job. Later the shipbuilding moved to a new site in Johnson St, Tuggerah.

By the time Harry retired in the 1980s he had fabricated about 30 hulls.

Harry was surrounded by plenty of family to help celebrate his 100th birthday he received letters of congratulations from the King and Queen, the Prime Minister and Governor General. There was a huge cake and a piano singalong of old favourites with his team of specialist care workers from HammondCare who make it possible for Harry to continue living independently in his own home.

Harry Westerdyk celebrating his 100th birthday; Harry Westerdyk building one of his early yachts with son Harry alongside

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Tidal terrace adventure play area to get $1.65M renewal

The tidal terrace recreation space in Leagues Club Park near the Gosford waterfront will undergo an overhaul with a $1.65M grant from the Federal Government.

This funding, together with Central Coast Council’s $165,00 contribution, will enable significant upgrades to the park, ensuring it remains a vibrant and inclusive space for local families and visitors.

Community consultation for Council’s renewal plans is open until October 21.

The entire Leagues Club Park precinct development was originally funded by the NSW Government and it has been a popular destination since it opened.

However, concerns about water quality in the original tidal terrace design have limited its use and led to the need to replace it.

Central Coast Council

Administrator Rik Hart said Council was keen to ensure Leagues Club Park would be a place where everyone felt welcome and could enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

“This grant allows us to further re-imagine this section of the park, incorporating the community’s ideas and ensuring it meets the needs of all visitors,” he said.

“Based on community feedback, a range of improvements have already been made to Leagues Club Park which include more inclusive play equipment, more shade sails and the addition of a concrete path for greater accessibility.”

Council Director of Community and Recreation Services

Melanie Smith emphasised the importance of community input in shaping the park’s future.

“We’ve had fantastic results with the current adventure playground, including the

Jail sentence for fraudulent tax agent

Former Central Coast tax agent, Gavin Swan has been sentenced to five years in jail with a nonparole period of three years for fraudulent behaviour and dealing with the proceeds of crime.

Swan was also ordered to repay $600,000 to victims.

Chair of the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) Peter de Cure said this case involved fraudulent activities including theft and money laundering of approximately $600,000 from more than 100 clients.

In 2022, following information received from the community, and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), the TPB took immediate action to protect clients and to investigate and address Swan’s misconduct.

The TPB’s investigation included Swan and an associated entity, Absolute Accounting Services, operating on the Central Coast.

The investigation found that Swan misled his clients, the

popular rocket slide, and we’re excited to build on this success,” she said.

“The community’s feedback has been invaluable, guiding us towards creating a destination play space that’s truly inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.”

Council is also consulting with the local Aboriginal community to ensure the park’s transformation honours the area’s cultural significance.

“This project is a collaborative effort, and we’re working closely with the Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council to create a space that reflects our region’s rich heritage and supports the broader transformation of the Gosford waterfront,” Smith said.

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said the Leagues Club Park was a phenomenal recreation space, close by Gosford waterfront and the CBD.

“The Federal Government is working with Council to ensure the park remains safe and accessible for everyone in our community,” he said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the new funding was testament to the importance of listening to residents’ needs and desires.

“With this grant and ongoing community collaboration, we’re confident that the park will continue to be a cherished space for many years to come,” he said.

Council is inviting everyone to participate in the consultation process which is open until October 21.

To participate, and for more detail, go online to: www. yourvoiceourcoast.com/ project-stage/gosfordleagues-club-park-upgradeshare-your-voice

TPB and the ATO, and he failed to meet his professional obligations.

Swan and Absolute Accounting’s registrations were terminated, and he was excluded from practice for the maximum five-year period.

Following a subsequent investigation by NSW Police, Swan pleaded guilty to fraud and money laundering offences.

TPB Chair Peter de Cure said tax professionals had a privileged position of service to clients and the community.

“We support timely civil action to protect clients and will continue to assist law enforcement agencies to stop fraud and money laundering from undermining integrity and trust in the system,” he said.

“Fraud thrives in darkness and deceit, that’s why the TPB supports reforms that enhance transparency in the tax profession,including significant breach reporting,whistleblower protections, and timely action to address false and misleading statements.

“The majority of the community, and their tax practitioners, do the right thing.

“The TPB is reminding tax practitioners and professional associations of the importance of engaging with them in a timely, co-operative and transparent way to address misconduct and improve professional standards ensuring a level playing field for all,” de Cure said.

Nurses from Gosford and Wyong hospitals were among more than 9,000 nurses who marched through Sydney on Tuesday, September 24 as they began a 24-hour strike across NSW, seeking a better pay rise. The Nurses and Midwives Association wants a 15 per cent pay increase in one year but the State Government has rejected that, instead offering a three per cent increase per year with backpay. The Nurses Association has not accepted that offer, saying it isn’t good enough and that the government was taking the nurses for granted.

Yes: Coast votes to reduce councillor numbers

The yes vote in the referendum asking residents if they were in favour of reducing the number of Central Coast councillors from 15 to 9 continues to out-poll the no vote and is now a certainty.

On Wednesday, September 25 the vote was almost 62 per cent for the yes campaign and 38.19 per cent for the no vote.

The total vote counted was 209,043 with a total number of both residential and nonresidential electors enrolled in the area being 260,408 people.

Total informal votes has been less than five per cent.

The referendum question also asked if residents wanted to reduce the wards from five wards to three.

The new ward system will take affect from the 2028 Council elections.

Between now and then the newly elected 15 councillors will have to oversee the arrangement of the five wards down to three wards and plan for their own reduction down to nine councillors.

The outcome of the referendum is binding on the Council.

Most candidates in the election advocated for a no vote but the Administrator Rik Hart said he considered nine councillors to be a much more effective number to govern the community.

“I strongly believe that reducing the number of councillors should lead to greater cohesion, less disruption and improved decision-making,” he said in August.

He also said that reducing the number of councillors would lead to at least $1.3M saved during the term of the Council.

“This is a significant saving that could be re-invested into community services,“ Hart said.

Meanwhile, counting for the 15 councillor positions continues.

Postal votes are still being received until 6pm Friday, September 27.

Merilyn Vale

Leagues Club Park is about to undergo revitalisation

Chair of the Tax Practitioners Board Peter de Cure

Marine Rescue chaplain celebrates 60 years of ministry

Father Carmelo Sciberras of Hamlyn Terrace, and the much-loved chaplain of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury, recently celebrated a significant milestone – his Diamond Jubilee marking 60 years of ministry as a Catholic priest.

Since 1996, he has been a devoted member of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury, serving not only as a crewman but also as the unit’s chaplain, offering spiritual support to the members and the wider community.

Born in Malta in 1938 during the onset of World War II, Fr Carmelo has vivid memories of living in underground shelters while Malta was heavily bombed by Axis forces.

“The war was a challenging time,” he recalled.

“We spent many nights in underground shelters, not knowing what the next day would bring.”

He and his family emigrated to Australia in 1956, where they settled in Sydney. Fr Carmelo completed his studies in philosophy and theology at the Catholic seminaries in Springwood and Manly, leading to his ordination as a priest.

Over the span of his career, he has served in 21 different

parishes across Sydney, including as parish priest at St Joseph’s in Narrabeen and Holy Name in Wahroonga.

Fr Carmelo’s service extended beyond his parish duties.

He was a full-time chaplain at Concord Repatriation Hospital and served for 17 years as a padre in the Army Reserve, retiring as Senior Chaplain with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

His military service included two years of full-time service at Kapooka, home of the 1st Recruit Training Battalion.

“Serving as a chaplain in the Army Reserve was incredibly fulfilling. The military taught me

discipline and the value of camaraderie,” he said.

In addition, he ministered as a chaplain for the NSW Police Service and various veterans’ organisations.

After retiring from full-time parish duties in 2007, Fr Carmelo relocated to Summerland Point and recently moved to Hamlyn Terrace but continued to support the Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay in a lighter capacity.

However, retirement did not slow him down – he remained an active member of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury.

He initially joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (which

preceded Marine Rescue) in 1996 after being invited by Terry Fox, a member of the unit, to become their chaplain.

Over the years he attended meetings, provided spiritual care and after retirement became more involved in operational duties, even completing training as a crewman.

“I wanted to be more than just the padre, I wanted to be part of the action so I did the training, learned the ropes and became a crewman,” he said.

Fr Carmelo vividly recalls a particularly challenging moment during his service when he

spent an entire night counselling a fellow member who was struggling after a difficult search and recovery mission.

“That night was tough, but being there for my fellow member was what mattered most. Sometimes, just being present can make all the difference,” he said.

In addition to his pastoral duties, Fr Carmelo has been involved in many other aspects of Marine Rescue, including blessing new rescue vessels for both his own unit and others in the region, such as Cottage Point and Broken Bay.

He also conducted the funeral of a former unit commander, Merv Collins, who had been instrumental in Fr Carmelo’s training as a crew member.

At 86, Fr Carmelo continues to be an active part of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury. He serves on the first watch team each month and is currently training to become an accredited radio operator, proving that age is no barrier to learning new skills and continuing to serve the community.

“I’m always learning – whether it’s operating the radio or tying a knot, I still feel there’s more to give,” he said.

Fr Carmelo’s remarkable life and dedication to both his faith and Marine Rescue Hawkesbury have earned him numerous accolades, including the National Medal and the Medal of the Order of Australia.

His lifelong commitment to service, whether through the church, the military, or Marine Rescue, has left a lasting legacy in the lives of those he has helped and continues to inspire.

“I’m not done yet,” he said.

“I’ll continue to serve as long as I can. It’s been a blessing, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Landslip repairs underway on Wisemans Ferry Rd

Repairs and betterment works are now underway for more than 40 landslip sites on Wisemans Ferry Rd in Spencer and Gunderman thanks to $28.3M in disaster recovery funding from the federal and state governments.

Wisemans Ferry Rd experienced widespread damage including embankments with landslides and rockfalls at multiple locations after major flooding and storms in 2022.

The road will be restored to its pre-disaster function and become more resilient to future

natural disasters, as part of Essential Public Asset Reconstruction and Regional Roads Transport Recovery Package initiatives.

These initiatives help local councils in NSW rebuild road and transport infrastructure projects in disaster-impacted communities.

Alongside current road pavement rehabilitation, over the coming months Wisemans Ferry Rd will see works across four interconnected segments to rectify several critical landslide and embankment erosion issues.

Completion of the Wisemans Ferry Rd project is anticipated

in June 2026, weather depending.

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid welcomed the collaboration between the federal and state governments to start these much-needed rehabilitation works.

“I know through conversations with my community that safety along Wisemans Ferry Rd is a top priority, being one of the primary roads in and out of the area,” he said.

“As an emergency doctor, it is vitally important that frontline services can access these communities easily and safely.”

Member for Gosford Leisl

Tesch said the local community “was very happy to see work progressing to not only restore the road, but ensure it’s improved for the long-term benefit of all locals and visitors”.

“The Central Coast deserves to have infrastructure that can recover more quickly from these types of disasters, allowing life to get back to normal more quickly,” she said.

“Simply repairing the damage without addressing the underlying problems would eventually be more costly for all concerned.”

Postal votes almost counted in Council Election

The NSW Electoral Commission is waiting on 3,206 postal votes to return by 6pm, Friday, September 27, before preference counting begins in the Central Coast Council elections to elect 15 councillors.

A total of 19,938 postal votes were given out and 16,732 have been returned and scrutinised.

Already, voting shows the Coast has elected four Liberals,

five Labor and two Team Central Coast councillors.

The voting in each ward will come down to preferences for the third councillor position while positions two and three are still unknown in the Budgewoi ward.

As at Wednesday noon, Labor’s Helen Crowley in Budgewoi ward had 36 per cent of the vote and will get elected.

Liberal Independent Doug Eaton is next on 18.63 per cent

of the vote, Team Central Coast’s John Mouland has 16.76 per cent of the vote and Greens candidate Sue Wynn is on 15.33 per cent.

In fourth position is Central Coast Heart with 10.34 per cent of the vote and below the line candidates make up 3.3 per cent.

In the Gosford West ward Lawrie McKinna from Team Central Coast had almost 34 per cent of the vote; Labor’s Sharon Walsh will get in with

28 per cent and the Liberal’s Jared Wright had 22.54 per cent of the vote so that ward is as good as finalised.

The four ungrouped candidates below the line have a total of less than 14 per cent of the vote.

In the Gosford West ward, the first two positions are clear with Liberal’s Trent McWaide and Labor’s Belinda Neal getting elected, both with almost 30 per cent of the vote.

The third position will be

determined by preferences between former mayor Jane Smith; Ratepayers’ Choice Kevin Brooks and Coasties Who Care’s Lisa Bellamy.

The Entrance ward will see Liberal Rachel Stanton and Labor’s Margot Castles take the first two positions.

The third councillor again will be determined on preferences between the Animal Justice Party’s Sarah Ryan, Corinne Lamont and Team Central Coast Sharon Brownlee

although she’s further behind at this stage.

The Wyong ward looks set to have Liberal John McNamara, Labor Kyle MacGregor and Team Central Coast Kyla Daniels.

The final election results will not be known until early October with the mayor election scheduled for October 8 at the Council Chambers.

The mayor is elected by the councillors.

Roadworks forging ahead after flooding and storms

Fr Carmelo in his Marine Rescue role; A toast to Fr Carmelo on his diamond jubilee

Merilyn Vale

Dr Gordon Reid and Labor are delivering

Central Coast Council is seeking feedback from the community to guide the development of a masterplan for the Hardys Bay foreshore.

Acting Director Environment and Planning Jamie Loader said the new masterplan would be developed in collaboration with the local community to understand concerns and opportunities for Hardys Bay.

“The objective of the project is to provide solutions to community concerns and develop a masterplan which outlines improvements to Hardys Bay foreshore amenities, access, safety and environmental integrity within the bay for use by the community and visitors.

“We have listened to the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association and

Drop-in sessions to discuss improvement plans for Hardys Bay foreshore

other residents who have raised concerns regarding the condition of Hardys Bay foreshore, including a deteriorating foreshore edge, potential damage to essential infrastructure and a lack of public amenity within the bay.

“There are also other concerns identified such as flooding and drainage issues, limited footpaths and public facilities.

“We’re inviting the local Hardys Bay and surrounding community to participate in the planning process, voice concerns and help to identify improvement opportunities,” Loader said.

Drop-in community sessions will be held at Hardys Bay Community Church where members of the public can meet Council staff and provide feedback on October 8 from 10am-12pm, and October 22 from 6pm-8pm.

An online survey and interactive map are available for community feedback at yourvoiceourcoast.com until October 28.

This masterplan, once

Hart said local knowledge, ideas and expertise from residents was important, especially when developing masterplans that shaped how the community would use and interact with their local environment.

finalised, will be a component of Council’s overall Coastal Management Programs (CMP) which is a long-term strategy for the management of the coastal zone and coastal environments.

The inclusion of the Hardys Bay Masterplan into the CMP will provide opportunities for funding through the NSW coastal and estuary grants program and consideration for capital funding in future Council budgets.

“By listening we will ensure local voices are reflected throughout our plans and the right balance is achieved between environmental and social and economic outcomes for this community,” he said. Once the feedback has been collated Council will be working with members of the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association to assist in the development of the masterplan on behalf of Council.

Council Administrator Rik

When complete a draft masterplan will be placed on public exhibition for further comment and feedback.

More counsellors to help combat domestic violence

West Gosford-based Peninsula Lighthouse, which provides support systems for those suffering the trauma of domestic and family violence, has secured $10,000 in Community Building Partnerships Program (CBP) funding from the NSW Government.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the funding would help Peninsula Lighthouse’s counselling team to continue their important work

“The day-to-day work of organisations such as Peninsula Lighthouse is critical in addressing family, domestic and sexual violence,” she said.

counsellors and social workers was exceeding supply.

“As we know, sadly, domestic violence is on the increase, across the state and within our own community,” she said.

“Peninsula Lighthouse helps families living in or leaving domestic violence.

“There are not enough counsellors and social workers that specialise in these issues to keep up with demand.

training and equipping new counsellors to help those in need, but it also benefits our community as a whole, as new counsellors are skilled to assist people in our local community who need crisis and traumainformed support.

“It will assist in improving the mental health of our helpseekers and provide them with practical support and pathways to transform their lives from simply surviving to thriving.”

“This funding goes towards the training and coaching of new counsellors to work with families to enable them to resolve conflict within the home, without the use of violence.

“It is simply unacceptable that a woman dies every four days on average at the hands of a partner.

There are 13 parks around the Central Coast Council which are designed in an accessible format so all children can participate in the joy of outdoor play. They are featured in a new Accessible Playspaces brochure released by Central Coast Council to provide more information for parents and carers of children with a disability when they are planning to take their children out.

The brochure is available both online and in print, listing the accessible features of each

“I am glad to see training and

coaching for counsellors securing CBP funding from the NSW Government.”

Peninsula Lighthouse founder Natasha Kelley said demand for domestic violence

“The funding not only benefits Peninsula Lighthouse in

Accessible outdoor play at 13 parks

playspace and designed in an accessible format including pictograms and a pin drop map.

Accessible playspaces are located at Berkeley Vale–Kurraba Oval, Kurraba Pde; Budgewoi – McKenzie Reserve, Weemala St; Buff Point –Edgewater Park, Narambu Rd; Canton Beach foreshore – cnr Beach Pde and Belbowrie St; Copacabana – Shaun Brinklow Park, Copacabana Dr and Susan Fahey Park, Peublo St; Ettalong Beach foreshore playground, The Esplanade; Green Point – Sun Valley Park, Sun Valley Rd; Gwandalan

Tunkuwallin Oval, Kanangra Dr; Long Jetty – Saltwater Creek Reserve, Tuggerah Pde; The Entrance, Memorial Park on Marine Pde and also on The Entrance Rd; Umina Beach –Peninsula Recreation Precinct, Sydney Ave.

The brochure was developed in response to community feedback gained during the public exhibition of Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan. In consultation with the Council’s Access and Inclusion Reference Group, input from Council asset managers and informed by the three principles of the Everyone Can Play

Guidelines, 13 local playspaces were profiled and selected for the Accessible Playspaces brochure.

The brochure can be downloaded online from Council’s website by searching ‘Accessible Playspaces brochure’ or picked up from Council’s customer service centres in Gosford or Wyong, as well as from local libraries.

This latest guide joins Council’s collection of resources for the community, including the Accessible Nature brochure and Accessible Beaches brochure.

Peninsula Lighthouse provides ongoing casework with community clients, referrals to other services (accommodation, food, legal, trauma assistance, care, counselling and job-seeking), information sessions and mentoring.

Council is developing a masterplan for Hardys Bay foreshore

at Sun Valley Park, Green Point

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch presents the cheque to Peninsula Lighthouse staff

From page 1

Community left in lurch with transport failure

“The NSW Government, through (Department of) Transport, are working to secure an alternative operator,’’ the post said.

“Central Coast MPs have been speaking to the Minister’s office about the importance of finding alternatives for this vital service as quickly as possible.

“We will keep the public updated as news comes to hand on possible alternative arrangements.”

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said he was deeply concerned by the situation and that he had written to the Department of Transport for information on alternative arrangements.

One community member summed up sentiment when they said on social media that they relied on the service desperately and “so do many other pensioners who cannot afford taxis to appointments and cannot use public transport as they are too old and fail”.

“There will be hundreds of appointments cancelled due to this service not operating,” the resident said.

Since 2013, CTCCL’s transport services had supported the frail aged, those living with a disability, and those who were financially or geographically isolated to remain engaged in their community.

The Shirley Shuttle had been operating for more than 15 years, started by Barb Galvin in 2008 as part of bequest from her mother, Shirley.

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) of NSW is urging CTCCL to pay workers what they are owed.

The TWU said workers were blindsided when they were informed by the company’s CEO of its immediate closure, stating financial strain due to ongoing Enterprise Agreement (EA) negotiations as the cause.

Upwards of 50 driving and 10 office roles have been lost.

“While workers have been told their entitlements will be

paid by the 27th of this month, no clear details have been provided regarding what those payments will include and if they will be paid in full,” a TWU spokesperson said.

“The TWU has made multiple attempts to contact CTCCL’s management since the collapse, but has only been met with automated messaging services and no direct response,’’ TWU State Secretary Richard Olsen said.

The union has written to the NSW Government requesting it

step in given the scale of job losses and the vital community service which the company provides.

“These workers have been let down in the worst way possible. They deserved better than a last-minute meeting and vague promises about entitlements,” Olsen said.

“Vulnerable community members, including cancer patients and people with disabilities, have also been left in the lurch, without the vital transport services they relied on from CTCCL.”

He said blaming the closure on workers’ reasonable requests in the EA negotiations is a complete cop-out.

“The truth is, this was a failure of management to properly run the business, not the fault of workers standing up for fair pay and conditions.”

In a media statement on Friday, September 20, CTCCL said all redundancy payments and entitlements were secure.

“Employees will also receive support through the Employee

Assistance Program, and Human Resources will be available to address any queries regarding termination payments,” the press release said.

“Our employees have been instrumental in delivering highquality services to the community, and this decision does not reflect their dedication or the quality of their work.”

CTCCL said it had identified an alternative services provider to support clients during the transition.

These included Transcare, Bungari (Gosford) Central Coast, Mercy (Newcastle), Hornsby Community Transport and Transport for NSW contacts.

“CTCCL will maintain limited emergency services until Friday, September 27, to assist clients in urgent situations.

“Clients are encouraged to contact us during this time, and we will do our best to assist where possible.”

Minister signs improvement order for new council

Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig has signed into action a Performance Improvement Order on Central Coast Council.

The PIO, first mooted on September 2, is meant to ensure the work undertaken in the four years of administration are not lost in transition to an elected council.

The new councillors will start their four-year term with rules and regulations holding them back from making any decisions outside the “guard rails” as Administrator Rik Hart explained it.

He said the PIO, which would be in place for one year, was like having guard rails in place in case the horse bolted.

sack the CEO or change any staff delegations.

Despite administration for four years, the new council has to implement any outstanding recommendations from the Public Inquiry which was held in 2021 and the findings handed down in 2022.

On the day it became public, March 17, 2022, the former councillors were officially sacked.

that changes are only made if they contribute positively to the operation of the organisation,” Hart said.

“This will maintain stability at the executive level and will foster constructive working relationships to be developed between councillors and Council’s leadership team.”

Community Strategic Plan,” Hart said.

The PIO restricts the councillors to implementing the current operational plan and budget and other potential actions have to gain the permission of the Office of Local Government.

Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden has secured capital works funding to the value of $14,500 under the 2023 Community Building Partnerships Program.

This funding will go towards the completion of capital works including fencing, gates, work benches and storage for the popular community garden at 85-87 Moanna St, Woy Woy.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch congratulated the volunteers for their successful application.

These include not being able to restructure the council or

In a letter to Hoenig agreeing with the need for the PIO, Hart said it would ensure that Council’s effective operation was not unnecessarily disturbed through changes at the executive level and delegations.

He said the requirement to implement ongoing recommendations from the Public Inquiry, and the involvement of Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) in governance oversight and changes to Council’s priorities was necessary.

“The actions regarding ongoing consideration of the relevant financial benchmarks, and the requirement to consider the impact of decisions on Council’s long term financial sustainability, will mitigate the risk of the incoming Council making short term financial decisions that impact on Councils’ ability to continue to deliver services and infrastructure to future generations.

ensure that Council remained accountable to the community regarding its financial position and any associated risks.

“Governance requirements under 2.1.3 will further support delivery of the of actions in the adopted Operational Plan and the maintenance of a sound financial position,” Hart said.

“The discipline regarding staff interaction and councillor requests will ensure that resources can remain focused on delivering adopted plans and not be unduly influenced by unreasonable councillor demands.”

The new councillors will be officially named in early October and their first meeting, where they will elect their mayor, is scheduled for October 8. Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig

“The requirement for concurrence of the Office of Local Government will ensure

“This approach will ensure that the incoming Council remains focused on delivering commitments reflected in the

“This is a particular challenge for most councillors as the focus tends to be on responding to the demands of their constituents during their term.”

He said the requirement for regular and transparent financial reporting would

Community garden gets a growth spurt

“This community garden facility and the gardening and growing projects within it bring immense joy to locals’ lives,” Tesch said.

“Members of our community from all walks of life are so very fortunate to have such a beautiful space in which to learn about the theoretical and practical aspects of growing and using food in a way that’s ecologically sustainable.”

The community garden’s public officer Tania Haydn said the funding would go towards improvements and upgrades which would benefit the community and its team of volunteers.

“Our focus is on enhancing facilities by installing workbenches and storage

units inside the existing building and creating a secure storage area outside for our

garden composting equipment,” Hayden said.

“The capital work improvements will help sustain our garden resources for the future and deliver positive social, recreational and safety outcomes at the garden for both the community and our team of volunteers.”

Join the community garden’s waiting list and learn about its projects and activities at www. pcg.org.au

Time for a chat: Tesch and volunteers at the garden

Merilyn Vale

Community transport buses are out of commission

Motorists are advised of changed overnight traffic conditions on Brisbane Water Dr at Koolewong to carry out maintenance work on the bridge over Woy Woy Bay.

Work started on Monday, September 23 and will continue for the next two weeks overnight on Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm to 5am.

Lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place for the safety of workers and motorists.

There will be no impacts to freight or oversize and/or overmass vehicles during this work.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Seven decades of surf lifesaving at Toowoon Bay club

Seven decades of surf lifesaving were celebrated last weekend when more than 400 past and present members and friends of Toowoon Bay Surf Club gathered to celebrate its 70th anniversary.

The day was a showcase of surf lifesaving over the past 70 years and included displays of reel rescues, board rescues, surf boats and “rubber duckie” rescues, a jet ski, drone, first

aid displays – all with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter hovering above.

The men who formed the surf reel team on the day were the only five members of the club who gained their bronze medallion by using the reel and belt rescue.

The club hall was packed with life members, past and present members and friends and family while a stage on the beach for local bands kept

beachgoers entertained throughout the day.

“It was a really great day,” immediate past president Phillip Raymont said.

“It took a lot of organising, and thank you to all the volunteers, work crews, the 70th Committee, participants, supporters, helpers and Central Coast Council.

“Without their help the day would not have been so memorable.”

The club has one of the largest nipper programs in NSW as well as the Stingray nippers program, a modified program for children with additional needs.

Boasting 60 patrolling members and 800 social members, Raymont said the club was a very communitybased club, running many programs in its hall including a men’s workshop, yoga, pilates and a choir.

A swim group known as the Buttercups meets every morning for either a quick dip or a full ocean swim.

The club foyer now boasts a patrol service board where members who have patrolled for 10 years or more are acknowledged, and a heritage walk which shows the evolution of the club.

From left: “patient” Ellie Syphers, and her rescuers, Mark Shearan, Ray Waldron, Chris Jones, Rod Wallis and Phillip Raymont; Most forms of rescue equipment and techniques from over the years were on show at the celebrations

Photo: Tc Nguyen

Photo: Tc Nguyen

With the arrival of the Little Terns expected to begin mid-October at Karagi Point, The Entrance North, Central Coast Council is once again undertaking works to help protect the nesting area.

Little Terns migrate from South-east Asia to Australia each year and are protected under both state and federal threatened species legislation, and Karagi Point is where the colony has historically chosen to nest.

Council’s annual management works, including temporary fencing at the nesting area, will commence this month and are designed to help protect the nesting birds.

In recent years these actions have resulted in recordbreaking breeding success and significantly contributed to the long-term survival of the species.

Council Environment and Planning Director Jamie Loader

Little Terns nesting season looming

said about 36 per cent of all Little Tern fledglings hatched in NSW last season have come from the nesting colony in Karagi Point at The Entrance North, making it the most successful Little Tern breeding

colony in the state in recent years.

“Last season, at least 134 chicks were confirmed as having fledged, which is an exceptional conservation outcome and the most

successful Little Tern breeding season on record at Karagi Point – the previous best being 96 fledglings in 2021/22,” Loader said.

“We know how exciting it is to see these rare birds nesting, but we ask visitors to the beach to keep well back from the fenced area as the Little Terns are highly sensitive to disturbance and can abandon their nest site if they feel unsafe.

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

“We are asking the community to help keep the area litter free, not feed seagulls and other birds, avoid unnecessary noise such as unauthorised fireworks, not fly kites or drones over the area and report fox sightings to Council.

“We also ask that the community keeps cats in at night and dogs away from Karagi Point.”

Find out more on the Little Terns and how to help protect them by visiting www. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ council/council-news/councilpreparing-nesting-areareturn-little-terns

This project is also supported in part by the NSW Government’s Saving our Species program.

Killcare brings in flexible rosters for surf lifesaving volunteers

Killcare Surf Life Saving Club has introduced a flexible self-scheduling model for its patrol roster that empowers each volunteer to choose when they want to patrol.

Recognising the evolving landscape of volunteerism, the club has moved away from the traditional model of being placed on a team and rigid rosters published months in advance.

Instead, patrollers can now indicate their availability, allowing for a more adaptable approach to scheduling that aligns with their personal commitments.

“Many of our dedicated volunteers are eager to contribute but struggle with the long-term commitment of a fixed roster,” Director of Lifesaving Kurt Vella said.

“By allowing patrollers to self-schedule, we’re not only accommodating their needs but also enhancing our overall operational efficiency.

“Simply, we’re putting our volunteers first by moving from us telling them when they’re on to them telling us when they can contribute.”

The new approach, a concept pioneered by Bermagui Surf Life Saving Club, ensures that the club can maintain a strong presence on the beach while

fostering a sense of ownership among volunteers. Patrollers can now take control of their schedules.

“Getting your bronze medallion is the first step in an incredibly rewarding pathway that can include boats and

rescue jet-skis, advanced first aid, piloting drones and so much more,” Vella said.

“The qualifications you can get through surf life saving, many nationally recognised through our own RTO that can be put on your resume, are so diverse.

“There are even paid opportunities through the commercial arms of Surf Life Saving NSW that take in event safety, UAV’s, education and of course lifeguarding.”

Surf Life Saving Australia’s National Coastal Safety Report released last week shows coastal drownings in NSW significantly up on the 10 year average.

Fight for motorcycle spots continues

“None of those were on a patrolled beach, highlighting that what we do has never been more important,” Vella said.

“If you’ve been a patroller in the past or are looking to pull on the iconic red and yellow uniform for the first time but were concerned about the time commitment, please get in touch for a chat.

We’d love to have you join us.”

Phone Kurt Vella on 0499 888 675 or email lifesaving@ killcaresurfclub.com.au

Keen motorcycle rider

Shane Peak has taken his appeal for three dedicated motorbike parking spots to be reinstated in the Terrigal CBD to Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch.

CCN reported a few weeks ago that Peak claimed removal of the dedicated parking spots by Central Coast Council was a severe disadvantage to motorcycle riders.

At the time, Council responded that there were 15-20 dedicated motorcycle parking spaces within the larger CBD area, with motorcyclists also able to use any available carparking spaces.

But Peak said suggesting that

riders should park at The Haven or the surf club is “not fair or equitable”.

“It assumes that all motorcyclists are fully mobile and can easily walk long distances, and have more time,” he said.

“This is not always the case, and it’s not acceptable to provide lesser facilities for motorcycle and scooter riders.

“With hundreds of car spaces available, why not allocate a few more for motorcycles and scooters?

“The current decision forces motorcycles to take up car spaces, which frustrates car drivers, even though we are legally allowed to do so.”

Further, Peak said, the new 15-minute car space in Pine Tree Lane is not even large enough to fit a car, rendering its

designation as a carparking space “misleading and impractical”.

“The decision to remove

parking that accommodated two or three motorcycles and replace it with an unusable car space is a clear example of poor planning,” he said.

“This not only inconveniences motorcyclists but also creates frustration for car drivers.”

He has urged Crouch to advocate for a more equitable parking policy that “truly meets the needs of all road users”.

Peak said removing spaces around the block encompassing Crowne Plaza – Terrigal Esplanade, Ash St, Pine Tree Lane and Kurrawyba Ave – had disadvantaged the many motorcycle and scooter riders in the area.

Peak said other councils, such as Willoughby City and North Sydney, had recognised the importance of maintaining or increasing motorcycle parking.

“Gold Coast City Council is investigating the potential for allowing motorcycles to park on footpaths, which could free up car spaces and further alleviate parking pressures,” he said.

Peak said such forwardthinking policies could benefit the entire community.

He said motorcycles and scooters were vital to alleviating traffic congestion.

Little Terns nesting season about get underway

Change to lifesaver patrol schedules for more efficiency

The new car parking space does not have room even for a small car

Photo: Andrew Robinson

Rabaul Ave upgrade welcomed

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid has welcomed a muchneeded resurface of Rabaul Ave in Umina Beach by Central Coast Council.

“Rabaul Ave is a major thoroughfare for morning and afternoon commuters and workers,” Reid said.

“It is often used as a secondary route if there are traffic delays affecting Ocean Beach Rd.

“It is also an important route for buses taking school students to and from school.

“When I am in the community, door knocking or hosting mobile offices, the condition of

Rabaul Ave is frequently brought up with me.

“I am pleased that our community’s advocacy has been heard by Council and resurfacing works are underway.

“I thank the Council workers involved to improve Rabaul Ave and commend Council on placing this project at the top of its priority list.

“I will continue to represent our community and advocate for improved road infrastructure, including making representations to all levels of government for increased funding for local roads.”

Special morning tea to pay homage to our elders

Central Coast Council is hosting a morning tea at Laycock Street Community Theatre to celebrate International Day of Older Persons on Tuesday, October 1.

Council Director Community and Recreation Service Melanie Smith said International Day of Older Persons was about honouring our older residents and paying homage to the contribution they make in our communities,while recognising their rights to age positively.

“We strive for a community that includes and values older people in all aspects of life and provides valuable opportunities for older people to participate and contribute fully within society,” she said.

“We want a society in which dignity, choice and freedom are achievable and in which older persons are supported in having independent, active and fulfilling lives.

“Older persons in our community are invited to come along to Laycock Street Theatre where guest speakers will be educating our older persons about their rights in all aspects

of ageing, such as residential retirement village living and aged care rights, online security and identity theft support.”

Frank O’Toole from Gosford Musical Society will be MC for the day’s events which will include speakers Jenny Samuels from Seniors Rights Services and Alicia Anderson from ID Support NSW. Also, there will be singing entertainment by Sunrise Michelle.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said Council had a key role to play in support our residents to live longer, healthier and

fulfilled lives on the Coast.

“Older persons make up the majority of the Central Coast’s population with 27 per cent aged 60 years and above,” he said.

“Each year we plan, develop and implement programs, activities, services and infrastructure to support our older persons to remain active participants in all aspects of community life, throughout all life stages.

“What we know from developing the Positive Ageing Strategy is that a major feature of retaining a positive attitude to ageing is a sense of

belonging, feeling part of a community and maintaining links with family and friends.

“We encourage older persons to connect with local community groups and organisations and discover the wide range of services, activities and events available, which will enable the development and continuation of meaningful work, leadership, self-worth and resilience for older people living on the Coast.”

To register to attend the morning tea at Laycock Street Theatre, search “international day of older persons’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid admires the new resurfacing work in Rabaul Ave

Litter bin plan needs modifying

In the article Call for litter bins at bus shelters (CCN 454), community activist Joy Cooper makes some good points about the problem of rubbish at bus shelters, and how a little rubbish breeds more rubbish.

She proposes that the best way to solve the problem is to install a bin at every shelter.

While I fully agree with this proposal in general, it does need to be qualified by a couple of conditions.

First of all, in the parts of the Central Coast that I regularly visit, mainly on the Woy Woy Peninsula, most bus shelters already have a litter bin.

However, those bins actually create more problems than they solve because they are large SULO bins, with large openings, like those used for the household waste collection service.

Instead of being used for genuine litter, they are mainly used by residents and some tradies for household and commercial waste.

So any bins that are installed need to be small bins with small openings to prevent such misuse.

The existing SULO bins need to be replaced with such smaller bins.

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

Secondly,it takes considerable Council staff time and resources to install, monitor, empty and maintain litter bins, so they should be installed only at bus shelters that have a sufficient number of users.

Some bus shelters have very few users.

Thirdly, we must all learn to take some responsibility for the waste we produce by being prepared to take it home with us or at least to a bin in the nearest CBD, and not expect Council to provide bins in every possible place where we might have litter to dispose of.

Finally, we must recognise

Joy Cooper

ON THE BEAT

Kincumber man charged over Erina stabbing

A 27-year-old man from Kincumber was arrested by investigators from Brisbane Water Police District last Friday in relation to a stabbing at Erina.

The arrest on September 20 came four days after emergency services were called to a shopping complex on Terrigal Dr just after 7.20pm on Monday, September 16.

The 39-year-old male stabbing victim was taken to

hospital suffering knife wounds to the left side of his chest and left arm after a fight in the carpark.

He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being transported by Toll Ambulance rescue helicopter to Royal North Shore Hospital.

The man arrested by police has been charged with wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and is currently refused bail until his appearance at Gosford Local Court on November 15.

that many litterers will continue to drop their rubbish on the ground even when bins are provided.

The best solution is to pick up any rubbish we see straight away ourselves, because, as Joy Cooper rightly points out, rubbish left on the ground breeds more rubbish.

Tim

Coast Community News has 10 complimentary tickets to give away to The Love Club Cabaret, part of the Coastal Twist Festival

For event details and how to enter, visit: coastcommunitynews.com.au/giveaways

The Coalition’s unrelenting decision to build a nuclear power plant in Australia’s “earthquake capital” of Muswellbrook, could well be Peter Dutton’s “On The Beach” moment.

Email Sept 18

Chris Castellari, Umina Beach

Regulating online games

Email, Sep 9

Slocum, Umina Beach

Thanks to Red Bus

I’d like to thank the staff at Red Bus for retrieving and delivering my shopping that I’d left outside Wyoming shopping centre. It would have been difficult for me to go back there a I no longer drive, so well done all.

Email, Sept 17

Dave Horsfall, North Gosford

‘On the Beach’ moment

In Nevil Shute’s apocalyptic novel On The Beach, some people await the arrival of deadly radiation spreading from the north following a nuclear explosion.

Yesterday while waiting for my bus I heard the familiar sound of an online poker machine game I regularly play.

On looking up I was shocked to see the player was a boy aged about eight or nine.

His apparent mother was standing nearby “smoking” in a no smoking area.

Sure, impose age limits and regulations on social media platforms but that won’t stop the misuse of these apps by misguided teenagers.

The real regulatory control should be the parents.

Good luck to any government who can alter “the not responsible” parenting of today.

Email, Sept 20 Barry Lloyd, Bateau Bay

Community response to transport shutdown

CCN’s online Forum and the stories on our website have been swamped with responses of dismay and disgust about the sudden shutdown of Community Transport. These are just some of the responses.

The effect of the closure is going to be an absolute disaster for those aged residents of the Coast suffering disabilities and/ or inability to drive etc, who have to rely on the services which have been excellent to date.

Personally, I believe a majority of them would have accepted an increase in their contributions if they knew of the negotiations with the Transport Workers Union were faltering.

I have always found the contributions to be more than reasonable (in this day and age) and would willingly accept an increase of some substance.

If the income to the company was not covering their outgoings then the management are to be held responsible for the non-action to save the company.

Michael Butcher

I’m a volunteer driver for CTCC and Shirley Shuttle and this announcement is very distressing for all our clients who for some we are the only contact they have.

We must find a solution quickly - for the community and the drivers who love doing what we do.

Jen Trigg

Community Transport is so necessary for a lot of people, me included.

Our local buses don’t run frequently and are hard to get on and off as there are a lack of decent pavements, our volunteer drivers come to the door and kindly help you into and out of the bus or car.

Most people would be prepared to pay more for this incredible and much needed service.

Shame on the people who shut it down with no warning!!

Patricia Stanford Where is the Labor government in this?

We need the service (because) the federal government took away a $250 travel pass which helped pensioners and concession card holders.

Dee Payne

Every person who has used this service has commented that they just would not be able to get out without us.

Man refused bail on sex assault charges

A man has been charged following an investigation into alleged historical sexual assault offences at different locations on the Central Coast.

In July 2023, detectives attached to Brisbane Water Police District commenced an investigation following reports of an alleged sexual assault occurring between 1970 to 2007.

Sometime in the 1970s, a boy aged 12 was allegedly sexually

assaulted by a man who was known to him at an address in the Sydney suburb of Telopea.

Between 2002 and 2003, two boys aged 12 were allegedly sexually assaulted by a man who was known to them on a yacht in the Killcare area.

In 2007, a boy aged 12 was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man while door knocking as part of a school fundraiser in Ettalong Beach.

It is alleged the assault lasted over a four-year period.

Following an extensive investigation, detectives went to a home in Ettalong Beach at about 3.15pm on Sunday, September 22, and arrested a 64-year-old man.

He was taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged on five counts of aggravated sexual assault –victim under the age of 16 years, three counts of indecent assault on male, and rape.

He was refused bail to appear before Gosford Local Court on Monday, September 23, when he was again refused bail. He appeared before Gosford Local Court on Tuesday, September 24, and granted conditional bail to reappear on Friday, November 15, 2024. Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw. crimestoppers.com.au

Police injured in Gosford crash arrest

Brisbane Water Police were patrolling along Benham Ave, Wyoming, on Tuesday afternoon, September 24, when they saw a man driving a stolen car.

The silver Mitsubishi Outlander had been reported stolen from White St, East Gosford, earlier that day.

When the vehicle failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated; however, it was terminated for safety reasons.

Soon after, police again attempted to stop the vehicle before re-engaging in a pursuit.

The vehicle drove into Mann St, Gosford, where it crashed into several vehicles including two police cars.

Police allege the car drove directly at two officers on foot, causing them to take evasive action, before coming to a stop after crashing into a brick wall.

After the collision the 22-yearold man driving the car ran off but was arrested at the scene by officers where he allegedly attempted to resist arrest that resulted in a senior constable

suffering minor injuries.

A woman and two young children in another vehicle involved in the crash on Mann St were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries.

The 22-year-old man from Gosford was also treated for minor injuries by paramedics before being taken to Gosford Police Station.

Inquiries established that he was the holder of a suspended learner driver’s licence and was also allegedly breaching bail conditions from an

unrelated matter.

He was charged with seven offences including: steal motor vehicle, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, drive motor vehicle while licence suspended, police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, use etc offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention, hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty, and breach of bail The driver was refused bail until his appearance in Gosford Local Court.

Experience world’s greatest stage musicals at local cinemas

A nationwide season of The World’s Greatest Stage Musicals in Cinema includes three Central Coast venues – Event Tuggerah, Hoyts Erina and Avoca Beach Theatre.

Whether a seasoned theatregoer or looking to enjoy a show with incredible music, drama and performance, The World’s Greatest Stage Musicals in Cinema has something for everyone, all in HD on the big screen with epic state-of-the-art sound.

The program includes three iconic theatre performances – the 25th anniversary show of the acclaimed Miss Saigon from London’s Prince Edward Theatre; the 25th anniversary spectacular of the worldwide phenomenon The Phantom of the Opera from the Royal Albert Hall; and from New York’s Broadway the Girl from The North Country, the lauded musical that marries the music of Bob Dylan with a compelling and raw human story.

In the New Year, a further three seminal productions hit the big screen; Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies, the incredible live arena production of Jesus Christ Superstar starring Tim Minchin and Mel C, and the 20th anniversary celebration

of one the most beloved musicals, Billy Elliot The Musical Live.

All screenings will be on a limited basis.

Miss Saigon 25th Anniversary Show showcases from September 19 with a spectacular, sell-out 25th anniversary gala performance of the global stage sensation also features appearances by the original cast including Jonathan Pryce and Lea Salonga.

The epic love story tells the tragic tale of young bar girl Kim, orphaned by war, who falls in love with American GI Chris – but their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall will screen from October 31.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera is a worldwide entertainment phenomenon, staged in 145 cities across 27 countries and its box office sales eclipse Avatar, Titanic and Star Wars.

To celebrate its 25th anniversary year, Cameron Mackintosh presented The Phantom of the Opera in a fully staged, lavish production set in the sumptuous Victorian splendour of the Royal Albert Hall.

Phantom Of the Opera at The Royal Albert Hall stars Ramin Karimloo as The Phantom and

Sierra Boggess as Christine. They are joined by a supporting cast and orchestra of more than 200, plus some very special guest appearances.

Girl From The North Country hits the screens from December 5.

Written and directed by celebrated playwright Conor McPherson and featuring Tony Award-winning orchestrations by Simon Hale, Girl From The North Country re-imagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan as they’ve never been heard before, including Forever Young, All Along The Watchtower, Hurricane and Like A Rolling Stone.

It’s 1934 in Duluth, Minnesota where a group of wayward travellers whose lives intersect in a guesthouse filled with music, life and hope.

Next year’s program includes Andrew Lloyd Webber’s – Love Never Dies from January 30, Jesus Christ Superstar Live Arena Tour from March 6 and Billy Elliot The Musical Live (20th Anniversary celebration) from April 3.

For screening times and dates, check the websites of Avoca Beach Theatre, Hoyts Erina and Event Cinemas Tuggerah.

Free wellbeing and mental health support for Veterans, their families and carers on the Central Coast

Veterans Connect is a recovery-focused program that will enable you to achieve your goals. Everyone is different, so we tailor our support to suit you. We help navigate access to the right services at the right time.

Your Care Navigator will listen to your story and identify needs, to help you find a way forward with support and referrals. They will act on your advice and provide choices, supporting you to: navigate financial assistance and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs connect with health and specialist clinical providers connect with social and community networks • connect with housing, education and employment supports.

Connect

The cast of the spectacular stage musical Phantom of The Opera

Coast artists feature in outdoor sculpture exhibition

Eleven Central Coast artists will have their works featured at this year’s Sculptures in the Garden exhibition, to be held in Mudgee from October 1227.

Regional Australia’s premier outdoor art exhibition will feature more than 250 artworks from 130 successful artists, along with works from local children.

“We’re incredibly excited about this year’s line-up,” founder Kay Norton-Knight said.

“The variety of work showcases the incredible range of creative talent in Australia.

“It promises to be an unforgettable event.”

Sculptures in the Garden is a

not-for-profit exhibition, with proceeds going to local charity partners and the acquisition of sculptures for the Mudgee community’s public arts initiative.

Since 1983 event founders Gerry and Kay Norton-Knight have worked tirelessly to develop the garden, gallery and surrounds of Rosby Wines, creating a magical setting for the iconic event, which began in 2011.

On Friday, October 11 from 5pm to 8pm there will be an exclusive opening night preview with exhibiting artists.

Attendees will be given the opportunity to purchase sculptures before the event opens to the general public the following day.

The exhibition then continues

with sculpture demonstrations, guided tours and other activities, with barista-made coffee, food and premium wines from the Rosby Wine Bar available each weekend.

There will be live music every Saturday and Sunday performed by Matt BoylanSmith.

The Central Coast sculptors whose works will feature are: Emilia Krumm (Lisarow); Gill McLaren (Holgate); Michael Vaynman (Springfield); Meg Woodhead (Point Clare); Colin Tapping (MacMasters Beach); Peter Waples (Green Point); Damien Nicholls (Umina Beach); Rhonda Castle (Wyong); Ian Dodd (Chain Valley Bay); Simon Reseder (Wamberal); and Boyd McMillan (Toukley).

Krumm said she finds sculpting in three dimensions a liberating experience.

She is inspired by the world around her and the characters that she has encountered in her life’s journey and enjoys working with form and textures and adding a touch of humour to her work.

McLaren’s ceramics and bronzes are inspired by the ocean and nature, capturing movement, strength and beauty.

Vaynman specialises in bronze and stainless steel sculpture.

Woodhead has been exhibiting her work and being commissioned for more than 25 years.

She was a recipient of the People’s Choice Award at the 5

Roy Orbison show comes to Laycock

The Roy Orbison Story is a brilliant theatrical portrayal of the man, his music, his voice and his life and it’s coming to Laycock Street Theatre in October.

From his initial success in the 1960s to the resurgence of his career in the 80s, Roy Orbison’s voice remained remarkable, communicating an emotional intensity not experienced in popular music before or since.

Songs such as Only The Lonely, Pretty Woman, Crying, Workin’ For The Man, Anything You Want, Running Scared, Sweet Dream Baby, Candy Man, Blue Bayou, In Dreams and Penny Arcade were conveyed with vulnerability, love, loss and fun.

Orbison’s life was littered with personal tragedy and career highs and lows.

His legendary Black and White Night concert, his solo album Mystery Girl and the

formation of the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys marked a fitting final chapter for such a creative genius.

Shelley not only has the vocal range and tone to honour Orbison’s songs; he also has the sensitivity and artistic ability to portray the man himself.

Bringing the hits to life will be Mark Shelley and his sevenpiece live band.

“I am both a massive fan and an admirer of Roy’s immense talent, singing and songwriting ability,” Shelley said.

“There has been no-one like him before or since.

“It is an absolute privilege to perform his songs, share stories and take the audience on a wonderful journey.

“His music is timeless.”

Catch The Roy Orbison Story at the Laycock Street Theatre at 2pm on Sunday, October 13. Book on 4323 3233 or at laycockstreettheatre.com

Lands Exhibition this year.

Her NSW coastal studio is surrounded by inspiring wildlife and waterways.

Tapping is an emerging selftaught wood sculptor.

Peter Waples uses metals, timber and found items, gaining inspiration from family, nature and photography.

Damien Nicholls’ postmodernist aesthetic transforms, repurposes and recontextualises found objects with a deliberate surrealist stroke.

Castle is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work integrates bronze, steel, timber and found objects.

Dodd is a retired signwriter turned sculptor who spent several years in Bendigo, Victoria, where he had a

successful joint exhibition at Dudley House and was involved in the Open Studios.

Treseder transforms scrap metals and tools into sculptures, keeping the rusted state to highlight the age and preserve the history of his pieces.

He also does stainless steel and fabrication pieces, all inspired by his love of wildlife.

McMillan makes sculpture and two-dimensional art in direct interaction with the natural world.

He is a professional member of NAVA and has continued to hold solo and group exhibitions, license images, and fulfil commissions.

For more information and to book tickets go to www. sculpturesinthegarden.com.au

Mark Shelley as Roy Orbison

A work by Emilia Krumm ; A sculpture by Peter Waples; A piece by Michael Vaynman

Play School concert headed for Mingara

The Play School Live Concert Tour is back with the all-new show Let’s Play Together and is heading to Mingara Recreation Club on Saturday, October 5.

The show is touring around the country with its two favourite presenters and the beloved toys – Big Ted, Little Ted, Jemima, and Humpty. Kids Promotions, in collaboration with the

Australian Broadcasting Corporation, is presenting the beloved children’s television program.

The audience is invited to step into the enchanting world of Play School’s games room and go on a journey filled with surprises hidden within colourful boxes.

Let’s Play Together is not just a show, but a celebration of the joy of fun and games with friends.

The audience will be immersed in the wonders of delightful games, catchy songs, and enchanting stories; this adventure is bound to create lasting memories for children and parents alike.

Just like the cherished television program, the concert is thoughtfully paced for children, offering a perfect blend of lively tunes to dance to and quiet moments for pure observation.

Rogue Traders head for Wyong

It’s been a huge year of live music at The Art House Wyong but it’s not over yet, with Natalie Bassingthwaighte and the Rogue Traders set to take the stage on October 3.

The pop rock band dominated the Australian charts in the 2000s with smash-hits like Voodoo Child and Don’t You Wanna Feel.

Reuniting after years apart to pursue solo projects, Nat Bass, James Ash, Tim Henwood and Cameron McGlinchey will be performing all the hits from their platinum album Here Come the Drums and maybe even a surprise or two.

The band will be the latest in a string of internationally acclaimed acts to stop in at Wyong, including David Campbell, Kate Miller-Heidke, Macy Gray, Eskimo Joe, Jimmy Barnes and Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows.

The Art House Executive Director Anne-Marie Heath said the decision to bring on more contemporary music acts was reflective of what audiences were asking for.

“Live music has consistently been at the top of our audience’s wish list and our team is constantly getting feedback on what acts people want to see on our stage, so we’ve consciously been trying to deliver on that.” Heath said.

The Life Impossible is a poignant exploration of existential themes wrapped in a compelling narrative.

Haig’s writing blends humour and profound insight, making complex emotional landscapes accessible to readers.

It is brave to make your main protagonist a 72-yearold lonely, retired maths teacher who’s grappling with the absurdities of life, weaving through moments of despair, guilt, loss, hope, and the search for meaning.

Grace is propelled to an odyssey of action and awe in Ibiza, the island of youth, raves and drugs and nude beaches, where she has been left a house by an old

acquaintance, and she arrives with a one-way ticket, no guidebook, and no plan.

It’s “Murder, She Wrote” meets “Under the Tuscan Sun,” or as Haig describes Grace: “Don Quixote dressed in Marks & Spencer”.

Haig’s style is engaging,

The Life Impossible

By Matt Haig

Heath and her team have leveraged The Art House’s intimate, almost boutique-

feeling theatre to coax bigger names to the Coast.

“From a patron perspective, obviously if you live on the Coast and can go see a show at your local theatre as opposed to travelling to Sydney or Newcastle, that’s a win,” Heath said.

“And from an artist’s perspective, there’s real appeal in performing to a more intimate house – particularly, when they’re touring through all these large-scale venues that are selling thousands of tickets.

“Performances here feel more personal.

The familiar faces of presenters and the beloved toys, combined with engaging content,promises an interactive experience that will have the young audience actively participating throughout.

Tickets for Let’s Play Together are $27 a person and children under 12 months of age are free.

For ticketing information visit www.kidspromotions.com.au

“It’s quite special for performer and punter alike; that’s the feedback we’ve been getting.” With Summer@ The Art House (the venue’s annual Summer extravaganza), creeping up fast, more shows are to be announced in coming weeks.

Natalie Bassingthwaighte and the Rogue Traders will play at The Art House at 7.30pm on Thursday, October 3. For tickets go on Encore Member pre-sale from 10am on August 5. Pre-sale access details at: www.theart housewyong.com.au

Colours of Australia exhibition a must see

with a conversational tone that invites readers into the protagonist’s journey.

Among the rugged hills and golden beaches of the Balearics Grace searches for answers about her friend’s life, and how it ended.

What she uncovers is stranger than she could have dreamed and to dive into this impossible truth Grace must first come to terms with her past.

Filled with wonder and wild adventure, this is a story of hope and the life-changing power of a new beginning.

The book delves into the importance of connection, the impact of choices, and the beauty found in life’s imperfections.

Julie Chessman

Pearl Beach artist Marijke Greenway is exhibiting her new art in the Colours of Australia exhibition at the Sydney Royal Botanic Garden Gallery from September 20 to October 20.

A professional artist for 40 years, Greenway’s new exhibition features work inspired by the colours of the Australian landscape.

“Last year, I was lucky enough to be on a 10-day small ship cruising Kimberley waters from Darwin to Broome,” she said. Despite previous extensive

travels around Australia with her husband John where she painted ‘en plein air’ every time they put up the tent in a new place, they had not done the Kimberley cruise.

“I was mesmerised by the reds of the rock faces and the colour of the water and so I started painting them from photos this time as soon as I got back,” Greenway said.

“Adding these new paintings to those that I still have from travels with John I felt that I should show them in a new exhibition.

“When I started putting them together all I could see was

colours, hence the title for the exhibition.

“After painting the new oils, I decided that my beeswax technique, encaustic, would show off the colours in great depth, so more new paintings were created.” Greenway will be at the exhibition each day from 10am to 4pm and said she hopes to see lots of Central Coast visitors.

Entry is free and the best transport option is the train to Epping and then the new metro to Martin Place with a short walk through the Domain to get to the Botanic Gardens.

The Rogue Traders

Play School concert is headed for Mingara Recreation Club

A feature painting Approaching Horizontal Falls, The Kimberley by Greenway

Bouddi Peninsula Arts Trail 2024

Seize

@bouddiartstrail

ACROSS

1. White House’s ... Office

4. Endures

8. Nasty

11. Panache

13. Walked in water

15. Document, Magna ...

17. Mildly sweet (champagne)

18. At an angle

20. Computer modifying key

21. US coins

24. Brown pigment

27. Washington-based spy group (1,1,1)

28. Relaxing soaks

30. Washing machine cycle

31. Expresses (anger)

33. Get-together

34. Sheathe

35. Kilometres per hour (1,1,1,1)

36. Partial darkness

39. Collision

42. Cried (of cat)

44. Unrestricted

45. Miscalculated

46. Exhale with feeling

48. Director, Ridley ...

49. Know-all, smart ...

50. American air force (1,1,1,1)

52. Waistcoats

54. Slander

55. Lounged

56. Most timid

57. Overtake

60. Thoughtfulness

62. Curved-bill birds

65. Japanese martial art

67. Of the countryside

69. Older person

70. Pompous young girl

72. Hankering

73. Leotard material

75. Grey

77. Batsman’s dismissal (1,1,1)

79. Masks

81. Authorise

82. Gander’s partner

84. Small crown

85. Grumble

86. Garden hut

87. Proposed job-holder

88. Violently tear

DOWN

1. Ocean predator

2. Main artery

3. Portion

4. Deliberately avoid

5. Organism’s petrified remains

6. Make allowances for

7. Surgical sponge

8. Assembled

9. Decree

10. The N of NB

12. Ultra-virile 14. Ventures 16. LP record

19. School rolls

22. Jailbreak

23. Hypnotic state

25. Patched

26. Sidesteps

29. Crew-necked tops (1-6)

32. Bushranger, ... Kelly

35. Blood relationship

37. Escort

38. Evict (4,3)

40. Copper or iron

41. Had a go

42. Thaws

43. Clock faces

44. Golfing wear, plus ...

47. Overfed

51. Close relatives

52. Surface wood layer

53. Removes fleece from

54. Magic saying, open ...!

58. Concur

59. Respectful address

61. Hair styling tools

63. Light timber

64. Skiing event

65. Actress, Diane ...

66. Ballroom favourite

68. Merge

71. Single-handedly

72. Couturier, ... Saint Laurent

74. Scottish tribe

76. Colossal

78. Wind (one’s way)

80. Frypan cover

83. Rowing blade

Rise and Shine for this year’s arts and culture festival

The Coastal Twist LGBTIQA+ Arts and Culture Festival is just days away and ready to light up the Central Coast from October 1 to October 6.

Since its inaugural event in 2019, Coastal Twist has grown into one of Australia’s most exceptional Pride festivals, celebrated for its bold embrace of diversity, creativity, and community spirit.

This year’s theme, Rise and Shine will be staged across Woy Woy, Ettalong Beach, Umina Beach and Gosford, and aims to symbolises resilience, renewal, and transformation, represented by the powerful image of the phoenix.

Festival organisers aim to unite the community in a vibrant celebration of queer expression, collective growth and a commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming Central Coast.

Over six days and nights, the festival will offer a rich line-up

of free and ticketed events, featuring live music, film, cabaret, art exhibitions, and dance parties – all contributing to the local economy and cultural landscape.

A key highlight is the return of The Love Club Cabaret on Friday, October 4, hosted by the legendary Fez Faanana.

This dazzling night of top LGBTIQA+ performers from across Australia will be an unforgettable celebration of connection, creativity, and unapologetic self-expression.

On Saturday, October 5, the Bauhaus Fire Birds surrealist dance party will light up the night with a stunning line-up of DJs, performers, projections, and go-go dancers, blending fashion, art, and untamed energy on the dance floor.

The festival’s crown jewel is the Coastie Carnie Fair Day on Sunday, October 6, promising an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

This year’s Fair Day will

feature ARIA-winning neo-soul artist Kaiit, whose smooth vocals have earned her comparisons to Lauryn Hill,

with more than 30 million streams and 90,000 followers on Spotify.

Other acts include soulful pop

A new theatrical show created, conceptualised and scripted from within Gosford launches at Laycock Street Theatre on October 5.

Described as a beautiful show made with love and passion, One Way Ticket Around the World is suitable for families, children and adults where they will be taken on a journey around the world with music, dance and non-stop high energy entertainment featuring diversity and a cast of multi-award-winning performers.

One Way Ticket Around the World takes the audience on a wonderful journey around the world, literally the next best thing for Australian families not able to afford to travel overseas presently.

star and viral sensation Greg Gould, pop-dance artist Vetta Borne, and local legend Shauna Jensen, alongside dazzling

Travel the world without leaving Gosford

Forget about your worries, close your eyes and step right into your very own one-way ticket across Paris, Mumbai, Puerto Rico, Athens, Rome, Barcelona, Beirut, Rio De Janeiro and many more other

world stops.

There will be two live stage shows extravaganza on Saturday, October 5, to kick start the holidays.

Shows are at 2pm and 7pm,

suitable for the whole family, and each show is 90 minutes, divided into two sessions.

Drawing on the current cost of living issues, the creators of One Way Ticket Around the

World believe Australians are being extremely careful with spending to the point where many have stopped travelling as the main priority at home is looking after the family budget.

They believe this family show will literally be the next best thing to being able to go on a holiday around the world.

Join a unique world party show made with pure love in a full all-inclusive journey featuring diversity, cultural positivity and a happy message for equality together as one living in perfect harmony.

Get ready to feel the passion running through your veins with some tropical salsa, mesmerizing belly dance, exotic bachata, majestic Bollywood, uplifting can-can, a hot sizzling samba and so much more.

Aside from the world buffet of

performances by drag and circus stars like RuPaul’s Drag Race top 4 Molly Poppinz and all-male burlesque troupe

BRIEFS superstar Captain Kidd.

For families, Fair Day offers a dedicated activity area, including a Circus Play Space by Roundabout Circus, interactive Sensory Play with Demi, and the eco-inspired Mini Beast Disco with Betty Grumble and Dandrogyny, blending performance and workshops to celebrate nature and community.

Families can also enjoy Aboriginal Storytime and Drag Storytime, making Fair Day a vibrant, inclusive celebration for all ages.

The Coastal Twist Festival is more than just a celebration, it’s a movement toward a more inclusive Central Coast where everyone is welcome.

For more information and to book tickets visit the Coast Twist Festival website.

entertainment presented on stage, the show is a feel-good educational journey with regards to both learning and matching various global rhythms with corresponding places of birth.

Dazzling costumes will represent each sizzling world stopover, transporting the audience to another time and providing inspiration for the next holiday destination.

One Way Ticket Around The World has been produced by Gosford artists and presented as part of the Performance Illuminated Greenlight Season that supports many other local creatives and performing artists.

Tickets are available now at laycockstreettheatre.com/ event/one-way-ticket-aroundthe-world/online or through Laycock Street Theatre box office via 4323 3233.

Bridie performs at Avoca Beach Theatre

Seven times ARIA-winning singer, songwriter, record producer and soundtrack composer David Bridie will perform a special show on October 5 at Avoca Beach Theatre.

Bridie’s career spans across his work with chart topping band My Friend The Chocolate Cake, as well as the influential Not Drowning Waving group, and his own slate of six solo albums.

His show at Avoca Beach Theatre will see him follow the geography of his deep catalogue of songs, playing material from all his various projects as well as a few new songs he has developed more recently.

This past year has been a busy one for Bridie.

He produced and co-wrote Christine Anu’s new album Waku, reigniting a partnership that began with Anu’s debut

album Stylin Up which Bridie also produced.

This year also saw him compose the soundtrack for the gripping documentary Killjoy due for release on Stan later this month.

2024 started for Bridie in Antarctica, where he was the Antarctic Artist In Residence, which he said inspired a whole new batch of songs.

Performing is Bridie’s first love, however, and he is keen

to play the Avoca Beach Theatre.

“I’ve heard so many great things about the venue, but I’ve never had a chance to play there,” he said.

“As a coastal picture theatre that also does music, it brings together two of my great inspirations.

“I can’t wait”

Tickets via www.avoca beachtheatre.com.au

See the world without leaving the Central Coast

Dandrogyny

Photo: Evan Fowler Photography

David Bridie

Folk club presents rare treats at Everglades

It’s a double rare treat at the Troubadour Folk Club on Saturday, September 28.

Troubadour Folk Club presents two of the most inspiring bands to have emerged from the fringe folk scene in Australia on the one night: Jack n Jel n Mac n Wal, and Rare Treats.

It will be a concert like no other, organisers say.

Jack n Jel n Mac n Wal is a

four-part harmony band full of rich vocals, original songs and covers that are a bit country, jazzy and prog rock.

From Newcastle and the Hunter, Mark Jackson and Jane Jelbart with Mac and Wal are a rare commodity: performers who can teach, teachers who can perform; multiinstrumentalists (guitar, bass, banjo, and trumpet) but particularly ukulele.

Their original songwriting is

tender, toe-tapping and often silly.

Rare Treats, from the Central Coast, is a four-piece, multi-instrumental band with four-part harmonies. Instruments include keyboard, guitar, mandolin, ukulele and suitcase percussion.

They will be presenting original material from their CD, On the Streets and other uncovered great music as a rare treat for listeners.

Band members are Greg Frohlich (Frohlich Brothers); Cec Bucello (Blues Angels, Usual Suspects, Slightly Off); Trudy van Laar (Treeth); and Dave Rowe (Summerland Kings, and too many more to mention).

The music starts at 7pm on Saturday, 28 September at the Everglades Country Club at 9-13 Dunban Rd, Woy Woy. Book tickets: www. trybooking.com/CTTMA

Fun club invites retirees to join

Retirees are invited to join Wyee Probus Club to expand their friendship circle.

The club which has been operating for seven years meets at Doyalson Wyee RSL Club every month.

Probus is an association of active retirees or semi retirees.

“The basic purpose is to provide opportunities to keep our minds active, expand our interests and enjoy the fellowship of new friends,” a club spokesman said.

“Discover the benefits of belonging to a fun group of people, who go on picnics, day

trips in and around the Central Coast, and occasionally to Sydney, maybe for a ferry trip to Manly or Watsons Bay.

“We also have quite a few days away during the year,” he said.

Recent guest speakers include bush poet Peter Mace and next month the founder of the Central Coast’s Wildlife Walkabout Park Tassin Bernard will talk about the feral-proof 32ha wildlife reserve.

To learn more about what members call the “Fun Club’’ and to get a copy of their newsletter, contact Jeff on 0416127148.

Christmas magic comes to San Remo

If you’re looking for a fun night out for the family, make sure you put December 7 in your diary.

Camp Breakaway is holding a Twilight Christmas Market from 4pm until 9pm with music and food and an entertaining time to be had by all.

Master of Ceremonies for the wide range of entertainment is magician Jamie Cartner of Vocal Events.

There will be a wide range of market stalls as well for you to do some early Christmas present buying, a spokesperson said.

“There are still some spaces for stalls to be booked, if you would like to apply, call 4390

7624 or go online at bookings@ breakaway.org.au

“As an additional treat for the kids, Mr and Mrs Claus are

coming to town with gift bags for all those kids who have been nice during 2024.’ Camp Breakaway was

Sink or Swim at the Link and Pin

The monthly Sink or Swim sessions at the Link and Pin at Woy Woy present some of the best comedic talent in Australia and the next showcase on October 3 will be no exception.

This session features Leo McBride, a computer nerd by day, comedy nerd by night and an absolute afternoon delight.

A finalist in NSW 2024 Raw Comedy, one of Australia’s biggest open mic comedy competitions, McBride is described as intoxicating mix of wit, whimsy and storytelling, which he swears are all true.

McBride will have you forgetting your troubles and laughing along at his.

Eddy Rockefeller was born on the mean streets of a private hospital, crawling her way through society to become the abrasive bogan she is today.

Described as raunchy and

irreverent, she’s officially unemployed with more than two decades of being a professional attention seeker, she’s performed to audiences all over the world and most recently returning from New York.

Known around the scene for her affable nature, she’s not afraid to tell you her deep dark secrets.

Her recent credits include Best Comedy nominee

Newcastle Fringe 2022 and Dubbo Fringe 2021; Best Performance nominee Newcastle Fringe 2022; Best Newcastle Show nominee Newcastle Fringe 2022; Best Show nominee Newcastle Fringe 2022; Best Premiere Show nominee Newcastle Fringe 2021 and Best Homegrown Talent nominee Newcastle Fringe 2021. Tickets are just $10 available at the door or online.

Exhibition showcases love and connection in natural world

Central Coast artist

established in 1982.

It’s a registered non-profit charitable organisation, a registered service provider to the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), and a member of the NDS (National Disability Services).

“We specialise in providing respite care for people living with disabilities, their families, and carers,” the spokesperson said.

“We also provide emergency respite care and hire our site and facilities to other respite care providers and the wider community to raise additional funds for our programs.”

Camp Breakaway is at 80 Highview Ave, San Remo.

Penelope Jayne is showcasing her beautiful artwork in an exhibition titled Love in the Wild at Bay Gallery, Ettalong Beach.

Opening night is October 4 with the collection featuring stunning pieces celebrating nature and wildlife.

Jayne is dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare through her art.

Her latest exhibition explores themes of love and connection in the natural world.

It features artwork depicting various animals, sea life and the nurturing bonds present in nature.

Jayne said her paintings celebrated the beauty and tenderness found in wildlife, making it a heartfelt tribute to love in its many forms.

“Love in the Wild features

paintings highlighting the deep bonds between animals and their young,” she said.

“Notable pieces include a protective mother elephant watching her baby play in the red sand, and caring flamingo parents tending to their baby called a flaminglet, which takes two years to develop its signature pink colour.” The exhibition also showcases a whale and its massive calf, among other animals like panthers, tigers and jellyfish.

Opening night is on October 4 at 6pm, 29 Broken Bay Rd, Ettalong Beach, opposite Mantra Ettalong.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Jayne, enjoy drinks, canapes, live music and learn fascinating wildlife facts.

Penelope Jayne

Members of Wyee Probus on a recent outing

Rare Treats

Jack n Jel n Mac n Wal

Magician Jamie Cartner

Business & Property

Development applications for all three sections of a proposed seawall at Wamberal Beach are now with Central Coast Council.

The combined applications envisage the construction of a Terminal Protection Structure, a vertical seawall, extending about 1.3km in length from 3 Pacific St at the southern end to 17 Calais Rd in the north.

Number 1 Pacific St is not included in the application.

Two DAs for sections A and C are currently open for public comment while the third DA for Section B of the wall has been closed for comment.

Public comment open for two sections of proposed Wamberal seawall

A perspective of the proposed seawall from Surfers Rd and the end of Ocean View Dr, looking north to Calais Rd

Community group Wamberal Save Our Sand (SOS) handdelivered to Central Coast Council about a 1,000 handwritten objections about Section B earlier this month.

A group spokesperson said another 700 had been lodged online and the group is urging its supporters to send in objections about sections A and C.

Council staff will write the reports that will go to the Regional Planning Panel which will decide on the DAs.

The regional panels have been without councillor representation since the

council has been under administration from late 2020 but that should change now the Coast has held elections and councillors will be declared early in October.

Waterfront residents with the Wamberal Protection Association (WPA) want a longterm solution to protect and defend their properties from the ongoing threat of coastal erosion, by permitting construction of a terminal protection structure, along their private land which backs on to Wamberal Beach.

The DA lodged with Council says the location of the

proposed structure outside of the active beach zone means that normal sand movement along, and on/off the beach will not be impacted by the proposal.

No works are proposed within 40m of the shore of the lake or the mean high water mark of the estuary.

Severe coastal storms in 1974 threatened all beachfront properties resulting in the State Emergency Services placing rocks and sandbags along the beach.

In the 1978 storm, two properties were lost to the ocean during a storm.

These properties were subsequently bought by the State Government and are known as “The Ruins”, and they are included as part of the proposed section C works.

The wall has been designed as far landward as possible, and within private property.

Exceptions to this design requirement are where it crosses over Council owned or controlled land such as the Remembrance Dr portion, and “The Ruins”.

“Property buy-back was raised by the community as a solution to address coastal erosion,” the DA states.

“There is no legal mechanism for Council to acquire these properties and buy-back could only occur on a voluntary basis.

“Over the past 50 years, only five properties have been purchased at Wamberal Beach as part of a buy-back scheme.”

The report states that in the current value of properties would likely cost $750M to purchase today.

“This cost does not include compensation to owners, demolition and disposal, remediation and rehabilitation making it an unrealistic and economically unviable option,” the report states.

Hawkesbury River and Brisbane Water under discussion

Community drop-in sessions are being held to discuss the Coastal Management Program (CMP) for the Hawkesbury Nepean River System which includes both Pittwater and Brisbane Water.

Central Coast Council is one of six councils involved in the CMP for the river system.

The CMP sets the long-term strategy for the co-ordinated management of the system with a focus on achieving the objectives of the NSW Coastal Management Act (2016).

The CMP will primarily focus on the coastal management areas within the tidal section stretching over 145km of the Hawkesbury River from Broken Bay up to Yarramundi near Richmond.

The CMP also covers the waterways of Pittwater and Brisbane Water which converge with the Lower Hawkesbury River at Broken Bay.

Drop-in sessions to learn about the project, and for residents to share their

thoughts, are being held across the Central Coast.

They are:

October 13, 9am-4pm, Woytopia at Woy Woy South School, 14 Waterloo Ave, Woy Woy;

October 20, 9am-2pm, Umina Beachside Markets, Sydney Ave;

October 24, 9am-9pm, Erina Fair, outside Shaver Shop; October 26, 9am-12 noon, The Bay RFS, 17 Wattle Cres, Phegans Bay;

November 2, 9am-12 noon, Patonga Wharf (Blue across the Bay), 12 Patonga Dr; November 10, 10am-4pm, Brisbane Water Oyster Festival, Lions Park, Burge Rd, Woy Woy; November 12, 9am-1pm, Lakes Festival Cleanaway popup, Kibble Park, 118 Donnison St, Gosford; November 16, 4pm-10pm, Lakes Festival Gather & Groove, Lions Park, Woy Woy; November 24, 9am-12 noon, Lions Park, 10 Masons Pde, Gosford.

Coast’s surf, skate and streetwear brand makes waves

Local surf, skate and streetwear brand drøm has been making waves across Australia thanks to its rapid expansion over the past few years.

After having to close their Woy Woy shop following COVID-19, founders Gary and Sheryle Berman hit the road, spending two years travelling the east coast of Australia and promoting their brand at

various markets, festivals, and events.

Their hands-on approach paid off, as they discovered the significant potential for growth by leveraging local distributors.

Their first distributor was a young family living in a converted bus in Queensland, who embraced the opportunity to sell drøm products as their primary source of income.

Following this success, the

couple expanded their distribution network further, appointing another distributor in Western Australia.

Returning to the Central Coast six months ago they began to search for a distributor for the NSW south coast region and were pleased to be contacted by a loyal customer from Wollongong who has now joined the drøm team as their third agent.

To support this growth, they have also hired a local couple to assist them with printing and running markets on the Central Coast, gearing up for a busy Summer season with the launch of their new range. The Bermans are thrilled to see their Central Coast brand now available throughout Australia, a testament to their hard work and the strength of their community-focused business model.

Minor changes as Grand Saddles Lodge takes shape

Amendments to a grand hotel at Mount White, across the road from the restaurant, Saddles, would see a wine tasting room replacing a Keg Room proposed in earlier designs.

But don’t panic: the keg room has simply been moved to another part of the building.

Grand Saddles Lodge is under

construction after approval was granted in April 2024 for an integrated development including accommodation, day spa, restaurants and bars.

The proposed amendments list a number of changes to the layout of the rooms and the addition of skylights.

The site at 231 Pacific Hwy, Mount White, used to be petrol station and later became the

Hawkesbury Inn in the 1960s.

It was demolished in 2021.

The new development will see improvements at the intersection of Pacific Hwy and Ashbrookes Road.

Public submissions on the amendments close on October 4. See Central Coast Council’s DA tracker for details.

Gary and Sheryle Berman

Artist’s impression of Grand Saddles Lodge

Hawkesbury River Bridge

Brisbane Water

Business survey to build prosperity

Local businesses are invited to take part in Central Coast Council’s Business Retention and Expansion Survey.

It is the first survey of its kinds for Council and will help to better understand the needs of local businesses.

Feedback from business proprietors will play a crucial role in the delivery of information about economic development support programs and resources available to businesses.

Participation in the survey will help Council identify barriers and challenges faced by businesses, as well as how to best deliver support resources and advocacy to other levels of government.

Information from the survey will contribute to creating a sustainable and prosperous business environment across the Central Coast.

The survey only takes 15 minutes to complete on Council’s website and closes on Monday, September 30.

Realtors start new business in Summerland Point and Charmhaven

Real estate experts Kurt Bratby and Sean Pratt have opened the doors to their new Ray White Summerland Point / Charmhaven office.

This move marks a significant step forward for the duo, who have long harboured the ambition of running their own real estate business.

Kurt Bratby, who began his career in real estate in 2011, spent his initial two years in sales support before transitioning into sales and management.

“Starting in sales gave me a strong foundation, but moving into management was a natural progression,” he said.

“Owning my own business has been a dream for a while, and joining Ray White felt like the perfect opportunity to make that dream a reality.”

Sean Pratt’s entry into real estate started at just 16 years old in 2015, and he quickly made his mark after being offered a job following only one week of work experience.

“I left school to dive into real estate full-time, and I’ve never looked back,” he said.

“Working alongside Kurt has

been an incredible journey. We’ve been a team throughout my entire career, and now we’re thrilled to bring that synergy to our own office.”

The decision to partner with Ray White was straightforward for Bratby and Pratt.

“When we met with the corporate team, it was clear that Ray White offers unmatched support and resources,” Bratby said.

And Pratt said the opportunity to connect with the Ray White office in Gorokan solidified their decision.

X Thinking of selling? Do you know what you are selling?

X Unsure if you have property issues that could be considered a buyers deal breaker?

X Have a pre-sale inspection report ready for your sales agent so they know what they are selling.

X Not selling, not buying, but would like to know if your property is falling apart or worse ... leaking!

X Not selling, maybe buying? Same report, same process. Don't get stuck with a lemon!

X Flat rate cost regardless of property size or condition.

Bratby and Pratt have set up business in Summerland Point on the shores of Lake Macquarie.

“Summerland Point has evolved from a holiday hometown in the 1980s, to a thriving lifestyle destination for commuters and families,” Bratby said.

“With the construction of a new 600-house estate underway and luxury waterfront properties, it’s a beautiful family area with a strong sense of community.

“The nearby suburb of Charmhaven is more established and provides a solid base as it is conveniently close to Wyong and has a more established feel, where we are looking forward to continuing servicing the region.”

Joining Bratby and Pratt at the new office are James McGuire, a dedicated sales associate, and Kay Saunderson, an established local agent bringing valuable insights.

Eve Muscat is the operations manager overseeing the dayto-day operations.

In their first year, Bratby and Pratt aim to establish a solid presence in the region.

“Our goals are to build a robust team, capture significant market share, and develop a comprehensive property management service,” Pratt said.

“We want to become a trusted name in the community and showcase what makes Ray White Summerland Point / Charmhaven stand out from the rest.”

Kurt Bratby (left) and Sean Pratt

From left: Eve Muscat, Sean Pratt, Kurt Bratby, James McGuire

East Coast Beverages, the farm that will host the Rock The Farm concert on Saturday, September 21, will upgrade its production capacity thanks to a lowinterest loan from the State Government.

The business will install automated technology including high speed conveyors, bottling equipment, and advanced line cleaning systems to increase production and reduce waste.

The farm at 993 George Downes Dr, Kulnura, has been supplying fresh fruit juice to the Coast and beyond since 1965.

Saturday’s Rock the Farm is the second annual concert-in-

Rock The Farm venue gets low-cost loan

the-farm extravaganza and general admission tickets were still available on the farm’s website on Friday, September 20.

It will feature performances by Daryl Braithwaite, Boom Crash Opera, and the Rebecca Johnson Band.

VIP tickets are sold out as are shuttle bus rides from Gosford station although the Wyong station shuttle bus is still available.

Between hosting music festivals and harvesting fruit, the Central Coast business is also one of seven regional food and beverage manufacturers which signed up for lowinterest loans as part of the NSW Government’s $5M pilot

Regional Development Roadmap to help boost productivity, create jobs, and deliver advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Loans are available of between $100,000 and $1M, and interest is charged monthly at a fixed rate of 2.5 per cent for the life of the loan.

Loan repayments are interest only for the first two years. The maximum loan term is seven years.

The food and beverage manufacturing sector is a major employer in regional NSW with an annual turnover of $42.5B in 2022/2023 and employed more than 66,000 people as of May 2024.

Central Coast restaurants scoop the pools at recent awards

Two Central Coast restaurants were named category winners in the recent Restaurant and Catering Australia’s 2024 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence for Sydney and Regional NSW.

The Cowrie Restaurant at Terrigal won the premium dining category after being named finalists in the previous two years.

“We have been finalist for the past two years with the Restaurant and Catering awards in the formal dining category but as a young

restaurant, three years old in October, we never expected a win,” owner Dimitris Aronis said.

“It was rewarding to be nominated at that level and alongside some great restaurants.

“This year there was the formal dining category and a premium dining category, and we were selected for both.

“The team has been working very hard and the awards were a good opportunity to get a night out together to dress up and go out.

“To win the category for premium dining was a huge

surprise and shock – a few tears were shed.”

The Cowrie Restaurant had been established for about 30 years before Aronis bought it following Covid, after it had been dormant for 12 months.

“On reflection, it was a great reward for the roller coaster year it has been,” he said.

“We are always striving to be the best restaurant dining on the Central Coast, but it continually has its challenges.

“It requires attention to detail daily without let up.

“Throw in the current economy crisis and to say it has

FAMILY LAW

• Divorces

• De facto

• Children's Issues

• Property

• Binding Financial Agreements

been challenging is an understatement.

“It was a good win for us but more importantly the Central Coast and the coastal community of people that support small businesses.”

The team from The Cowrie at Terrigal

Lago Cucina located on the first level of Budgewoi Hotel at Budgewoi won best restaurant in a pub/club.

Restaurant owner Sydney Restaurant Group director Daniel Drakopoulos said the award was testament to the passion and dedication of the Lago and Budgewoi Hotel

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• Probate, Wills & Disputes

• Power of Attorney

• Enduring Guardianship

teams combined.

The Sydney Restaurant Group also owns a number of waterfront restaurants in Sydney.

“Overseen by general manager and licensee Andrew Carson, Lago’s offering, service and overall experience has been elevated over the past year with a strong focus for customer satisfaction coupled with amazing quality, locally sourced produce,” Drakopoulos said.

“We opened Lago in March of 2023 and Budgewoi Hotel in 2022 respectively and have enjoyed success as one of

CONVEYANCING

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business

• Leasing

• Retirement Villages

Budgewoi’s favourite local restaurants for a cocktail and easy, honest Italian.

“We’re very proud of the award we have received and cannot thank all the staff enough for their hard work, dedication and commitment to what Lago has become.

“Not only are we extremely thrilled that we have won the award for Best Restaurant in a Pub/Club, but it is also especially great for Budgewoi as well as the wider Central Coast region to be acknowledged for its culinary landscape and dining.”

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• Criminal Law

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• Drink Driving

Email: lemery@lindaemery.com.au

Web: www.lindaemery.com.au

Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford

Rocco Mazziotta and Cesar Marchetti from Sydney Restaurant Group accepting the award on behalf of the team at Lago Cucina in Budgewoi; The team from The Cowrie at Terrigal Photos: Alps Creative

East Coast Beverages family hard at work during harvest

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2025 Terrigal Local Woman of the Year

Do you know a local woman who resides in the Terrigal Electorate who deserves to be recognised?

This award is a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution made by women in our community.

Need a nomination form? Contact my office today!

Dunny Do and Dunny Don’t campaign launched

Central Coast Council has launched a Dunny Do’s and Dunny Don’ts educational campaign to raise awareness about responsible toilet and sink habits.

The initiative highlights the dangers of flushing inappropriate items down the toilet, such as wipes and sanitary products, and the significant impact these actions have on the sewerage system and the environment.

In addition to promoting proper toilet flushing, the campaign encourages residents to be mindful of what goes down their sinks.

Items like food scraps, oils, fats, grease, paints, chemicals, and medications can cause blockages in the sewerage system and negatively impact the process at sewage treatment plants.

flushable materials has become a growing concern.

Council Director of Water and Sewer Danielle Hargreaves emphasised the importance of the new campaign, which urges the community to flush only human waste and toilet paper, commonly known as the 3Ps – pee, poo, and toilet paper.

“Our sewerage system is designed to handle only the 3Ps,” Hargreaves said.

impact of these blockages.

“These blockages can result in thousands of dollars in plumbing bills for Council and homeowners,” Hart said.

“On average, we handle over 600 sewer chokes and failures due to blockages in the system each year, with repairs costing Council around $500,000 annually.”

A free and fun after-school program to help children be more active and eat healthier will return at three locations across the Central Coast next school term.

Go4Fun will run for 10 weeks at The Entrance Community Centre every Wednesday evening from October 16 and at Gosford Olympic Swimming Pool every Thursday evening from October 17.

Aboriginal Go4Fun, a culturally adapted version of the program run by Bungree Aboriginal Association and available to all families, will take place at Lake Haven Recreation Centre every Tuesday evening from October 15.

Go4Fun is a free health and

Council is urging residents to take preventive measures by placing wet wipes and sanitary products in the bin, using sink strainers, composting food scraps, and safely disposing of hazardous materials through chemical cleanout events or at the Buttonderry Community Recycling Centre.

The Central Coast’s sewerage network spans more than 2,500kms of pipes, supported by more than 320 pumping stations.

These facilities are crucial for transporting wastewater to one of the eight sewage treatment plants in the region, where Council treats about 87 million litres of sewage daily.

“Flushing anything else can lead to blockages, commonly known as fatbergs, which result in costly repairs and increase the risk of sewage overflows into our environment and local waterways.

“By flushing only the 3Ps, we can help protect our environment and preserve our natural assets.”

However, improper disposal of items like wet wipes, sanitary products, and other non-

Council Administrator Rik Hart highlighted the financial

Kids get active and eat better just for fun

wellbeing program for children aged seven to 13 to enjoy together with their families.

The program was previously open only to families with children above a healthy weight, however, it is now open to any interested families.

Run by trained health and community professionals, the program is a fun way for children to build self-esteem and learn about eating well, staying active and living a healthy life.

Kids take part in group activities and games, receive rewards and prizes, while parents benefit from professional tailored advice to help make positive health changes for the whole family.

Families unable to attend the face-to-face programs can

register for Go4Fun Online to view weekly online sessions and receive personalised phone support from a Go4Fun

coach at times convenient for them.

Go4Fun is a NSW Health statewide initiative offered on

the Central Coast by the Local Health District’s Health Promotion Service. Health promotion officer Gina

The campaign will be delivered through educational posters on the back of toilet doors, animated videos, radio ads, and by Council’s Water Education Officers at pop-up events across the Central Coast.

For more information on the Dunny Do’s and Dunny Don’ts campaign including downloading your own poster for use by households or businesses visit lovewater. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Crowe said the program provided a positive environment to support children to be more active, reduce their screen time, eat better and learn to feel good with nutrition

“We’re really excited to be able to offer three face-to-face programs across the Central Coast in Term 4,” Crowe said.

“The program’s eligibility criteria changed recently, which means more families can enjoy the benefits of the program and spend quality time together.”

To register, or for more information, visit go4fun.com. au or call 1800 780 900 or text 0409 745 645 for a call back.

Mental health struggles in show business in the spotlight

A new documentary designed to educate young people about mental health struggles within the entertainment industry is being produced by Central Coast based Salt House Creative and set for release nationwide in February 2025.

The production of Mental Health & the Actor’s Life began in July and will be presented by Dr Daniel Widdowson, founder and artistic director of Salt House Creative, who interviews Australian entertainment professionals about their experiences regarding mental health journeys within the

entertainment industry.

Actors, directors, producers, agents, choreographers, dancers, psychologists, dramaturges and others share their mental health journey within the glamourised demanding workplace.

Widdowson said their openness and vulnerability offered guidance and wisdom for future artists who dreamt of pursuing a life and livelihood in the arts.

“Mental Health & the Actor’s Life will be a candidly raw, yet a hopeful journey that equips young people who seek a career in entertainment with the necessary tools to monitor

their mental and emotional health while simultaneously striving to be their best,” Widdowson said.

Widdowson, who holds a

Doctorate in Creative Arts, focussing on Shakespearean literature and theology and is based on the Central Coast, is an Australian of the Year finalist,

Australian Playwright finalist, recipient of Best Director at the Florence Film Awards and Best Screenplay at New Your Movie Awards.

He also serves as an Ambassador for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation and received the Collins Booksellers Arts Awards.

Widdowson has hosted and segment produced popular children’s television program Saturday Disney from 2000 to 2007.

He’s been on the writing team of the long-running television series Home and Away, presented Ground Force and performed at both Melbourne

and Perth annual Telethons. His controversial black comedy about the global refugee crisis, Worm Farming – endorsed by human rights and refugee advocate Julian Burnside – premiered at the National Museum of Australia in 2017.

The success of the play prompted Widdowson to join the Australian Writers Guild where he now serves on the judging panel.

His acting credits include NCIS, Colin from Accounts, Last King of the Cross, Strife. Plum, Home and Away, Reef Break, Harrow and Total Control.

Go4Fun is a free after school program for children

Central Coast Council has launched a campaign to prevent sewer blockages

Daniel Widdowson and Opera Australia actor Todd Keys

Fitting farewell for Gosford intensive care nurse

Gosford Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse, Julie Donaldson of Terrigal, has been acknowledged in the Australian Parliament in Canberra by Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid MP, following her retirement.

Donaldson has been a nurse for more than 40 years, starting her training in 1976 and commenced as a registered nurse in 1979.

She started working in the Gosford Hospital ICU in 1989 and has continued to work in this role up to the present day and her retirement.

During her time at Gosford Hospital, Donaldson was responsible for establishing the baby basket for babies who started their lives in the ICU.

She also initiated the 100 Club, which aims to support multiple charities on the Central Coast and across Australia.

“Julie is truly an outstanding local nurse, who has dedicated her working life to caring for our community,” Reid said.

“She always provided outstanding care and

in the ICU.

“Never losing composure, she was unfaltering and confronted any challenge with perseverance and a sense of calmness.

“Often a source of wisdom and knowledge, Julie would be sought out by doctors and colleagues for advice on all manner of circumstances.

“A facilitator of further training and education for fellow nurses, she was always looking for ways to strengthen the profession and build up the skills of her colleagues.

“A truly selfless public servant, always putting others first and never seeking recognition for all the amazing work that she has undertaken, Julie is the personification of humility and an inspiration to many who have known her and have worked alongside her.

“She has set the bar high, and I know that our community will miss her dearly in her retirement,” Reid said.

He presented Donaldson with a certificate of transcript of his speech at a special afternoon tea at Gosford Hospital with her colleagues.

Dracula cast and crew head off stage to give blood

As Wyong Drama Group prepares to stage a spinechilling production of Dracula, the cast and crew stepped off the stage to make a real difference in the community by visiting Lifeblood at West Gosford to donate their blood and plasma, highlighting the group’s deep commitment to community values.

In true Dracula spirit, the team embraced the power of giving blood.

“We thought we could do a great community thing, and all give some of our blood to the Red Cross for people who desperately need it,” cast member Sarah Brown said.

The cast and crew agreed that their collective effort to support Lifeblood, which can potentially save many lives, aligns with the core values of community theatre –

connection, support, and giving back.

“We invite everyone to come see Dracula,” production manager Tracy Pattinson said.

“But also, to be inspired by the heart of this cast and crew who are making a difference behind the scenes.

“Community theatre is all about community, and we’re so

proud to give back in such a meaningful way.”

The team encourages everyone who can to consider contributing, reminding people that one blood donation can save up to three lives.

“Dracula, blood? Blood, donation. Save lives!” said

Duncan Mitchell, who is playing Renfield.

“Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply looking to make a positive impact, remember that donating blood is a simple act that can change lives, and it’s something anyone can do.”

Join the Dracula cast in making a difference by visiting Lifeblood and booking an appointment to donate blood.

Wyong Drama Group is a community-focused theatre company dedicated to bringing high-quality, engaging productions to the Central Coast.

Their latest production, Dracula directed by Jane Sackman starts on November 1, combines gripping performances with haunting designs by Daryl Kirkness and original music composed by Australian icon Andrew Worboys for this specific production, ensuring an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Hydration the key for Steiner School

Member for The Entrance, David Mehan recently visited Central Coast Steiner School to see firsthand the benefits of $8,250 in funding provided to the School under the Community Building Partnership Program.

The funding allowed the school to install two triple nozzle wall-mounted drinking fountain and bottle refill stations, one at the primary school and one at the high school.

This project is one of more than 19,700 funded by the NSW Government Program since its commencement in 2009.

“Keeping hydrated at school is important and the drinking fountain and bottle refill

stations ensure that our kids have access to clean, fresh water throughout the school day, crucial for their health and wellbeing,” Mehan said.

David Mehan (left) with Deputy Principal Adam Carron

Central Coast Steiner School, located in Fountaindale, will also be the first school on the Central Coast to offer the International Baccalaureate IB Diploma Program. This program will mean that

4367 3880

Central Coast Day Hospital is a purpose-built ophthalmic centre of excellence, and currently the only facility specialising in all types of eye surgery within the Central Coast area.

Our Hospital provides customised, state-of-the-art ophthalmic facilities and instrumentation complimented by a team of well trained clinical and administrative staff who share the vision of an ophthalmic surgical centre of excellence

students in Years 11 and 12 have the opportunity to participate in a program that is widely recognised by universities and employers in Australia and internationally.

“The school’s decision to be the first on the Central Coast to offer an internationally recognised program also means that there is more opportunity for our children’s studies to be recognised internationally, should they wish to study or work abroad,” Mehan said.

Applications for the next round of the Community Building Partnership Program will open soon.

For further information visit: www.nsw.gov.au/grants-andfunding/community-buildingpartnership.

Julie Donaldson and Dr Gordon Reid

Tracy Pattison prepares to give blood

David Mehan (left) with Deputy Principal Adam Carron

So easy, so yummy and you can sow right now! Most beans go brilliantly all year round, especially on the Central Coast and even the changeable Spring weather won’t have too much of a negative effect as long as you prepare well.

They will prefer a deep soil that is rich in organic matter and digging through some blood and bone a couple of weeks before planting can give them a great start.

Beans don’t really like sandy soil so add lots of organic matter and make sure, as with most vegetables, that it is welldrained.

The biggest human-induced problem beans face is overwatering.

This leads to fungal issues and oxygen starvation so hold off on the hose.

Beans will like moist to topdry soil and you will find that they are rather hardy through summer.

You can mulch, but never allow the mulch material to touch the stems as this is another way to trap too much moisture close to the bean plant which will lead to plant death.

What beans really need is full sun and for climbing beans, a trellis of some sort to support them.

Once growing, beans really don’t need additional feeding

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

unless there has been a lot of rain and nutrient levels are low.

Then a liquid-based preparation or manure tea would work well.

Beans can get all the nitrogen they need because they fix it from the air around them.

Over feeding beans will upset this balance and cause damage to your plants so be very careful when making the decision to feed.

You can easily grow beans in pots as well.

You will need a container with at least 30cm in diameter and because of the issues that can quickly arrive if beans are overwatered, you must ensure that there are plenty of drainage holes and the pot is raised a little so that water can escape quickly.

Your pot must be in a full sun position as well and this means six hours of direct sun every day.

GARDEN PLANNER

This week you can also plant the following: Culinary herbs, artichoke suckers, beans, beetroot, blueberry, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, celery, cherry, chicory, chilli, choko, cress, cucumber, eggplant, endive, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, marrow, melons, mustard, okra, spring onions, parsnip, potatoes (tubers), pumpkin, radish, raspberry, rubarb, rosella, salsify, silverbeet, squashes, strawberry, sweet corn, sweet potato (shoots), tomato, zucchini, ageratum, alyssum, amaranths, aster, begonia (bedding), canna lily, coleus, cosmos, carnation, dianthus, everlasting daisy, gazania, gerbera, gypsophila, geranium, impatiens, marigold, petunias, portulaca, lobelia, love-ina-mist, lupin, nasturtium, nemesia, sunflowers.

If you have climbing beans, then you will naturally need a trellis handy for your plant and if it is a busing variety then stack well while plant is small.

While growing beans is relatively easy, they can fall

victim, to diseases like powdery mildew and halo blight.

Make sure that you are giving your plants plenty of air flow by spacing well and that you are not over-watering, watering during the heat of the day or letting water fall upon leaves or

pool around the plants.

All this increases humidity, and this encourages the growth of these fungal disease.

Be on the lookout for mice, rats and bandicoots as they love eating beans and you will also need to watch out for the usual vegetable-munching pests including bean fly, snails and slugs.

Interplanting with highly aromatic herbs like garlic chives, society garlic and basil, along with potted mints can help deter them all.

There is a lot of variety out there to choose from when deciding what to grow in your garden and you will find that the selection is divided between climbers and bushes.

Climbers can reach a height of 2 metres while bush beans get up to around 40cm depending on type. They grow.

As annuals in this area and you can expect to harvest between 10 to 14 weeks.

Make sure that you harvest as soon as they mature when they are still crisp and full because leaving too long will cause your beans to toughen up.

If you would like to collect beans to dry, allow them to do so on the plant.

These can be collected for culinary use or for planting in the future.

Here are a few bean types that will grow well on the Coast and can be planted right now. Dwarf Borlotti which can be harvested as a green bean or left to dry on the plant.

This is an excellent culinary bean and very popular.

Butter ‘Cherokee Wax’ is another lovely dwarf variety worth growing.

One of the most productive climbers is ‘Blue Lake Climbing’ bean and if you like your beans without strings then look out for ‘Lazy Housewife’ or Dwarf ‘Snapbean’.

For stir-fries you can’t go past ‘Snake Beans’ and if you like broad beans, ‘Coles Early Dwarf’; is a good one.

Beans love to grow with broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers, cucumbers, lettuce, potatoes, and sweet corn.

cheralyn

cheralyn.darcey

CoastFM Gardening Gang Returns to Coastfm - 8am

PCYC Umina one-stop shop for fun, safe and sporting activities

From Kindergym and gymnastics, to archery and women’s fitness, through to Safer Drivers courses for L platers, PCYC Umina in Osborne Avenue, Umina Beach, has so much to offer the community.

And manager Judy Tolhurst, manager since August, has even bigger plans for the club which has been part of the Umina community since 2001.

Tolhurst, a parent, gymnastics coach and judge for nearly 17 years, is relishing the opportunity to engage with the 1,000 or so members and extend the local PCYC’s reach and connections within the wider Peninsula community and further afield.

“I’ve been involved with PCYC Umina for almost a decade, and I am delighted to be the new manager,” she said.

“In my new role I am excited about how the PCYC can assist and grow with the local community.

“PCYC Umina is an amazing space that many in our community don’t know exists and I want to change that.

“I want to see the facility humming with activity – full of local children, their families and friends – come in and say hi and see this fantastic facility.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said members of the community of all ages could benefit from this sport, social and recreational space.

“PCYC Umina is where all members of the community can feel right at home, with countless fun, safe, social, sporting, and recreational activities for everyone from babies to seniors,” Tesch said.

“Being tucked away right down the end of Osborne Ave in Umina, in the beautiful bush and among the banksias, it is easy to miss, so I encourage people on the Peninsula with an interest in social, sport and recreational activities to walk, ride or drive down and take a look around.”

The main building houses a large, state-of-the-art

gymnastics facility, a space used by Holistic Health and Movement, a kitchen, meeting room, accessible bathroom, and bathroom with showers.

There are even spaces for hire in the main PCYC building and a meeting room that can be used to facilitate small groups for meetings.

The PCYC’s reception space opens onto a compact grassed courtyard and is ideal for small parties and fundraisers.

In a separate building there is a boxing shed, one of the best boxing spaces in the country, consisting of a ring, seven sparring rings plus a

cardio area.

Gymnastics, boxing, women’s fitness and archery are just some of the activities on offer to PCYC members.

“We are lucky that we have some great venue hirers here including Holistic Health and Movement, and Complete Boxing,” Tolhurst said.

An all-abilities Kindergym class will be held on Mondays in Term 4 and an All-Abilities afternoon recreational class for children aged five to 10 will start in Term 4.

For parents, carers and their babies, PCYC Umina has just started two new Kindergym

classes on Thursday mornings, 10am to 10.45am, for 2-3 year olds and 11am to 11.45am for 3-5 year olds.

“These classes, which require a parent/carer/grandparent in assistance, help our youngest with co-ordination, crossing the mid line as well as a hub of social interaction for children and adults,” Tolhurst said.

As an accredited provider of the Transport for NSW Safer Drivers Course, PCYC Umina is also helping provide learner drivers with the knowledge they need to reduce road risks and prevent accidents by becoming a safe driver.

Students will complete the course with a greater of understanding of how to be a safe P-plate driver.

“Statistically, the first six months after receiving your provisional license are the most dangerous,” Tolhurst said.

“New P-plate drivers can find it challenging on the roads without the support of an experienced instructor by their side.

“Our course equips young drivers with the tools they need to manage the transition to a full licence.”

In conjunction with local police, PCYC Umina runs programs aimed at helping young people change their lives and to break cycles of disengagement from education and employment and developing life skills that result in resilience and increased employment opportunities.

Participants are referred to these programs by local schools and there are currently two active programs.

IGA Umina supports the club by providing food for the participants.

People interested in finding out more about PCYC Umina’s facilities and programs can phone 4344 7851 or to email uminabeach@pcyc.org.au.

Tolhurst can be reached directly on 0418 491 298 or via email at jtolhurst@pcyc.org. au.

Pharmacists to be authorised to treat more conditions

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has welcomed news that Coasties will soon able to access treatment for a range of ailments at their local pharmacy.

Health Minister Ryan Park announced at the recent Pharmacy Guild’s Pharmacy Connect Conference that work was underway to expand pharmacists’ scope of practice. They will be authorised to handle: acute otitis media (middle ear infection); acute otitis externa (outer ear infection); acute minor wound management; acute nausea and vomiting; gastrooesophageal reflux and gastrooesophageal reflux disease (GORD); mild to moderate acne; and mild/acute musculoskeletal pain.

Subject to appropriate training and ongoing work in implementation work, the expanded service delivery could commence as soon as 2026.

NSW Health is consulting with universities on the development of suitable training as well as the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia on request supports for pharmacists including: condition specific training; and upskilling in clinical assessment, diagnosis, management and clinical documentation.

NSW Health has also agreed to authorise individual pharmacists who have successfully completed the Queensland pilot training to deliver selected services in NSW from January 2025. More than 490 pharmacies across the state have participated in the oral contraceptive pill trial since it began, delivering more than 1,800 consultations to women in NSW. This follows the successful completion of the first phase of the trial in May 2024, which

Pharmacies will soon be able to

saw more than 3,300 NSW pharmacists provide more than 18,000 consultations to women aged 18 to 65 with symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI).

practice of pharmacists forms part of the NSW Government’s broader efforts to alleviate pressure on GPs.

“I hear every day from our community about how hard it is to access a GP on the Central Coast and the flow on effect this difficulty is having on our hospital emergency departments as Coasties are pushed into the hospital as the only accessible form of care,” Tesch said.

“The NSW Government is committed to relieving the pressure on GPs in all areas under NSW jurisdiction to ensure that our community can easily access healthcare as soon as they need it.

The third and final phase of the trial allowing pharmacists to manage common minor skin conditions is underway and will be running until early 2025.

The UTI service transitioned to usual pharmacy care from June 2024.

A detailed evaluation of all three phases of the NSW Pharmacy Trial will be provided to NSW Health in 2025 and will inform future expansion of services.

Expanding the scope of

“By expanding the Single Front Door program, increasing the services of Healthdirect, while also expanding the services undertaken by pharmacies, we are committed to improving access to care and ending wait times.”

PCYC Umina manager Judy Tolhurst and Liesl Tesch check out the club’s facilities

Terrigal and Berkeley Vale claim titles in football grand finals

The grand finals of Central Coast Football’s men’s and women’s Premier League were played in glorious Spring weather last Saturday, September 21 in front of an enthusiastic football crowd of locals.

Women’s Premier League

In the Women’s Premier League (WPL) grand final, Terrigal avenged their 2023 defeat by edging out a resilient East Gosford side 1-0 in extra time, capping off an incredible treble-winning season.

After an intense, back-and-

forth battle, Terrigal’s Tahlor Thackray emerged as the hero, calmly chipping the ball over East Gosford’s goalkeeper Chloe Smith in the 105th minute to score the only goal.

Despite East Gosford’s multiple early chances, including shots from the Golden Boot winner Jessica Dominello, Terrigal’s goalkeeper Mackenzie Walker stood firm, making crucial saves and securing a clean sheet.

East Gosford were unlucky not to convert their early dominance into a lead, hitting

the woodwork and forcing saves from Walker. However, Terrigal gradually asserted control, with their solid defence and experience eventually prevailing.

The result sees Terrigal crowned 2024 WPL Premiers, adding to their impressive trophy haul this season. Coach Gab Blanch praised her side’s resilience, saying “we weren’t at our best, but we battled like soldiers until we got what we needed”.

Men’s Premier League

In the Men’s Premier League

(MPL) grand final, Berkeley Vale Soccer Club celebrated their 50th anniversary in style by securing their first-ever MPL First Grade Premiership, defeating Woongarrah 2-1 in an entertaining encounter.

After a tense start, Nicholas Trengrove’s header from a corner broke the deadlock, giving Berkeley Vale a crucial lead in the 35th minute. Conor Fitzpatrick doubled their advantage in the second half, volleying home after a precise cross from Ashton Hurley. Woongarrah fought back

valiantly, with Jacob Melling coming close on several occasions, but Berkeley Vale’s goalkeeper Steven Grimmitt made outstanding saves to protect their lead.

A late goal by Woongarrah’s AJ Henderson provided a glimmer of hope, but it was too late, and Berkeley Vale secured the historic win.

Berkeley Vale coach Mark Pratt expressed his pride in his team’s achievement, saying “to our boys in our club’s 50th anniversary, we finally broke the Berkeley Vale

grand final curse.”

Meanwhile, Woongarrah’s coach Luke Rogers praised his young side’s effort in reaching the grand final.

“What a fantastic year, league champions and being a part of the grand final, an unbelievable season for such a young club,” he said.

Both top league grand finals demonstrated the increasingly high level of football on the Central Coast, with Terrigal and Berkeley Vale deserving their crowns after hard-fought victories.

Killarney women victorious in soccer grand final

FOOTBALL

After finishing League Champions in what was the first year playing soccer for most of the team, the Killarney District Soccer Club’s Women’s All Age 7s team also took out a grand final victory to finish the season as Premiers.

In a tight and gripping encounter, neither team could find the net in the first half and scores were locked at nil-all at half-time.

In the end it was a handball by Barnstoneworth in their penalty area that broke the deadlock, with Bec Wales beautifully slotting the ensuing penalty to make it 1-0.

The irony was not lost on the Killarney girls, as they had themselves fallen victim to not one penalty from a handball in the box but three in one single match against Barnstoneworth in the regular season. The last 15 minutes saw Barnstoneworth launch a relentless raid of attack on the Killarney goal, only to be continually denied by an outstanding defensive unit courageously playing through injury and running on pure determination.

Vibes were sky high as the girls celebrated into the night knowing that what they had achieved was much bigger than just winning a game of soccer.

Club invites community to try dragon boat racing

Central Coast Dragon Boat Club has new a new vessel which accomodates 20 paddlers, a drummer at the front to help the paddlers keep in time and a steer person at the back.

Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris presented the $21,156 cheque to club President Donna Lerway and Registrar Carol Stowe.

“The grant supports the club of 70 members with a new boat and a boat trolley specifically handmade by dragon boat

member Bernie,” Harris said.

The club welcomes new members who are competitive in racing, looking for a hobby or a way to meet people.

Previously the club has achieved strong placings at the NSW and Australian titles.

Lerway invited anyone aged 14 and above to come and try this fantastic sport of dragon boating.

The club will hold a learn to paddle program on Sunday, September 29 at 9am.

Meet at the club which is located next to the Marine

Rescue Centre, Peel St, Toukley.

“Wear comfortable sporting clothing, water shoes or old sneakers, hat, sunglasses, water bottle and we will supply the paddle and boat,” Lerway said.

Harris encourages local community groups in the Wyong electorate to apply for the Community Building Partnership Program.

Sign up for alerts about the next round: www.nsw.gov.au/ grants-and-funding/ community-buildingpartnership/contact-cbp

Registrar Carol Stowe, David Harris and President Donna Lerway

Berkeley Vale took out the Men’s Premier League

Terrigal United Women’s Premier League winners

Killarney women’s soccer team celebrating their win with supporters

Soccer school holiday clinics kick off at Tuggerah

Central Coast United (CCU) Holiday Clinics and Youth Trials are on these October school holidays at Soccer5s Tuggerah.

Ages start from U8s to U16s. The football program is on between 9am and noon and children can be dropped off from 8.15am and picked up by 1pm.

Head coach is Dean Heffernan, a seasoned professional with a storied soccer journey as a former pro coach with Western Sydney Wanderers W league side and a holder of an A licence, who brings a wealth of experience to the holiday clinics.

Participants are asked to bring their own water bottle, appropriate football wear and a packed lunch.

Three day, two day or one day options are available.

Should a child excel, CCU coaches will be present to observe, potentially opening doors to the Foundation Program, a joint program with the Central Coast Mariners (CCM), the representative JDL program and the FNSW League Two Youth sides.

To register visit: https://bit.ly/ HeffOct

CCU and CCMA will also be holding joint youth trials as part of the official football Australia Pathway that could lead to becoming a professional footballer.

Trials are for U9s to U12s mixed (https://bit.ly/JDL25) and U13s to U18s boys (https:// bit.ly/CCMACCU25).

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Wyong Roos coaches prepare for 2025

Wyong Roos have appointed Troy Pezet as Head Coach and Jason Cashin as Assistant Coach of the first grade Central Coast Rugby League side for the 2025 season.

The men share a genuine passion for the Roos dating back to their playing days for the club with both winning premierships as coaches and players from first grade down to juniors with the Roos.

Both Pezet and Cashin say they’re 100 per cent committed to bringing the team sustainable

success in the coming seasons.

“We look forward to the challenge of developing the young talent we have at Wyong with a view to building players ready to compete and win at first grade and Denton Cup level,” Cashin said.

Pezet said he knew the club had a strong plan for how they wanted the club to look in 2025 and beyond.

“I really like where we are heading and I’m confident we will be well prepared when the season kicks off,” he said.

First Grade Coach Troy Pezet (left) and Assistant Coach Jason Cashin

Congratulations to the six Central Coast Mariners U16 team members, who have been selected in the Australian schoolboys side. They are (pictured from left) Jared Williams, Harrison Jablonski, Shumba Mutokoyi, Harper Ryles, Bowen Hine and Laurence Taylor. The Central Coast boys were part of the NSW squad who won the state titles held in Perth in early August. The NSW side went through undefeated, with no goals scored against them.

Terrigal and Berkeley Vale claim titles in football grand finals

grand finals of Central Coast

and women’s

were played in glorious Spring weather last Saturday, September 21 in front of an enthusiastic football crowd of locals.

See page 30

Wyong team contests Equimillion horse riding events

Wyong Race Club has increased their support for Equimillion 2024 with 27 riders and 35 retired racehorses competing under the #teamwyong banner.

An initiative of Racing NSW, Equimillion will run from October 4 to 7 at the Sydney Equestrian Centre, with riders

vying for $1M in prizemoney. The event will encompass eventing, jumping, dressage and show horse categories.

A number of local Wyong trainers have become involved in this year’s event, cosponsoring #teamwyong, with each entrant requiring a $1,100 nomination fee.

Domeland, Kim Waugh, Allan Kehoe, Kristen Buchanan, Damien Lane, Tracey Bartley, John Cooper and Rod Bailey are all getting behind the horses and riders, along with Stonewall Equestrian Centre and Portable Horse Stables.

Retired horses previously under the care of a number of these trainers, will compete in

this year’s Equimillion. Wyong Chief Executive Greg Purcell said the club was again excited to throw their support behind such a great incentive.

“Like all racing participants we are very much behind animal welfare, and getting behind retired racehorses and the people who rehome them is a priority for our club,” he said.

“In its inaugural year in 2023 we sponsored six competitors who successfully competed and this year we’ve increased that number significantly thanks to the support of our local trainers.

“We are thrilled to be supporting such a talented group of equestrian riders.

“It is a great concept and will

definitely create more awareness for people interested in rehoming racehorses.”

Among #teamwyong riders will be local trainer Tina Williams, Allan Kehoe’s 14-year-old daughter Mia and Sara Ryan’s husband Will Matthew.

Rachel Darby from Terrigal United goes in for a tackle against Aleah Soames, East Gosford

Jessica Rae is competing with three horses in eventing and show jumping Tina Williams and former race horse Garrison

Alex McKee, on My Rippa, will compete in novice dressage

The

Football’s men’s

Premier League

Photo: Oz Shots Photography