Coast Community News #460

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Changes to public transport services such as train timetables and some bus timetables will start on Sunday, October 20.

And Busways has indicated it is experiencing staffing shortages that could result in delays along some routes around the Central Coast. Also, there are traffic and parking restrictions along Brisbane Water Dr at Koolewong while the High Speed Rail Authority sets up for marine geotechnical investigations. (See full story p11)

Apart from commuters affected by these transport disruptions, Year 12 students sitting their HSC exams are

being advised to check timetables before setting off to attend their exams.

One mother already has contacted CCN to let us know her teenager on the way to an exam was left stranded at a bus stop.

Transport for NSW says that the adjusted timetables on public trains and buses are because of the final Metro conversion of the T3 Bankstown line in Sydney which is now underway.

Some parts of Sydney will see major timetable changes which will flow on to Intercity train services on the Central Coast, as well as some

changes to bus timetables on the Coast.

Intercity services on the Central Coast and Newcastle Line will be maintained at current service frequencies with some minor timing adjustments.

Some trains will overtake suburban trains at Epping in the off peak, improving journey times for longer distance passengers.

There will be more consistent stopping patterns on rail services.

Wyong to Narara train passengers will need to interchange at Gosford for services to Wondabyne, Hawkesbury

River and Cowan during the morning peak.

Bus timetable alterations in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie areas across a number of routes will align with the rail timetable changes.

This will maintain connections to Cardiff, Fassifern, Gosford, Morisset, Ourimbah, Tuggerah, Woy Woy, Wyee and Wyong stations.

For more information on the timetable changes visit transportnsw.info and search for 2024 timetable changes.

Passengers should plan ahead using Trip Planner at transportnsw.info/trip or a Transport App at transportnsw. info/apps

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Tough times for businesses calls for local support

The resignation of Mariners Chairman Richard Peil this week highlights the harsh realities many local businesses face. (See story p22)

After two-and-a-half years leading the club through its most successful era, Peil cited financial constraints as the main reason for stepping down.

EDITORIAL

challenges faced across the Central Coast.

Recently, Community Transport Central Coast ceased operations, and many local cafes and restaurants have either closed or are on the brink of closure.

closing are becoming unavoidable.

While these changes are painful, they’re sometimes necessary for survival.

Yet, there are things we as a community can do to help.

Buying locally isn’t just a catchphrase; it’s essential.

While economic challenges are unavoidable, recovery often follows. Businesses making tough adjustments now will hopefully find themselves on stronger footing when conditions improve.

Whether choosing a local restaurant for dinner, shopping at a nearby store, or attending a community event, every small act helps.

Material that is considered offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.

Please send contributions to the above email address along with a high-res image (if applicable).

We reserve 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.

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

The latest news at: 7:30am, 8:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am & 11:30am 96.3FM Coast FM www.coastfm.org.au For daily ‘long form’ news stories Mon-Fri at 10am, 1pm & 5pm Weekends at 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30am Sat, and 8:30 & 11:30am Sun Tune into Easy FM 93.3 www.easyfm.com.au

The Mariners’ funding from the APL has been slashed from $2.35M annually when he took the role, to $2M last season, and now just $530,000.

The financial struggles impacting the Mariners mirror

Even CCN has felt the pinch, with reduced cash flow as customers struggle to make ends meet.

Rising costs, reduced consumer spending, and limited funding are hitting businesses hard.

Tough decisions like cutting staff, reducing services, or

Even non-monetary support, like sharing positive experiences on social media or recommending local businesses, can strengthen our community’s resilience.

These tough times won’t last forever.

The resignation of Richard Peil serves as a wake-up call. Our local businesses need support to weather this storm. If we act collectively by buying locally and spreading the word we can help ensure that when better days come, the Central Coast’s business community is still standing strong.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Invitation from Toukley Lions Ladies

They might be a small group but Toukley Lions Ladies Auxiliary puts in a mighty effort to support the work of Toukley Lions in the area as well as supporting local causes in their own right. They raise money throughout the year from raffles and this year donated more than $8,000 to local charitable groups and causes, such as Shirley’s Shuttle, Wyong Hospital Cancer

Centre, Lions children’s cancer research, Toukley Neighbourhood Centre plus

supporting local people and families in need. The women meet regularly

for coffee mornings and lunch and are always looking to find other like-minded women to join them.

The group is a social project of the Toukley Lions Club and was formed from the now redundant Lioness Club. If you are interested in providing support or coming along to have some social interaction, contact Karin via email: toukleylions@gmail. com

Council defends decision to remove Long Jetty toilet block

Central Coast Council has defended its decision to remove a public toilet block at Long Jetty before a new one was built.

Bateau Bay resident Philip Morrison criticised the Council’s decision to remove the toilets in Tuggerah Pde, opposite Gladstone St, in a busy and popular part of the Long Jetty foreshore.

“Anyone with decent management skills would have ensured a temporary one was available or that replacement works would start on the day demolition was completed,” Morrison said.

“I can only hope with the new councillors that things will improve.”

A Council spokesperson said the Council was currently undertaking a significant public amenity renewal program in Long Jetty, including replacing the toilets located on Tuggerah Pde.

Council has recently completed the renewal of the Archbald Rd public toilets in Long Jetty as part of the program.

“The Long Jetty precinct has a number of public toilet blocks in close proximity, which was a consideration in Council’s renewal program,” the spokesperson said.

“This enabled Council to renew a facility, while still

ensuring the availability of other local public toilet blocks for use without the need to provide temporary toilets.”

The spokesperson said there were four other public toilet blocks in close proximity to this location, two just over a kilometre away and two 600m walk away.

She said it was anticipated the renewal works would be completed and available for community use in early November.

“We apologise for any inconvenience during the important renewal work and thank the community for their patience,” she said.

Signage indicating both the direction and distance to the nearest alternative toilet block is fixed on the temporary fencing at the toilets currently being renewed.

Fencing around the demolished public toilet block at Tuggerah Pde Long Jetty

Danger of ‘rat run’ at Lisarow falls on deaf ears

Member for The Entrance, David Mehan, along with Lisarow residents, have expressed their disappointment in Central Coast Council, Police, and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) who have not supported their call to make MacDonalds Rd, Lisarow safer.

Residents of MacDonalds Rd have been asking for the speed limit to be reduced from 60km/h to 50km/h to become consistent with surrounding roads in the area and improve safety for children and families around Lisarow Primary School.

Mehan said that despite speed reviews conducted along MacDonalds Rd and a sharp increase in traffic volume, Council, Police, and TfNSW had decided that the

road did not meet the criteria for a reduction.

“While MacDonalds Rd maintains a minimal crash history, residents are concerned for pedestrian safety, especially for school students who use the road to walk to and from school,” he said.

“MacDonalds Rd has become a rat run for motorists avoiding the traffic lights at The Ridgeway intersection with the highway.

“Waiting for a serious crash to prompt a speed reduction is unacceptable.

“Prioritising the safety of pedestrians and motorists by listening to local residents should come first.

“It’s inconceivable that such a decision can reasonably be made by the very departments and agencies that enforce the law.”

Michael Whittington lives on MacDonalds Rd and his child attends Lisarow Public School.

“I am shocked at the lack of duty of care shown by Central

Coast Council and Transport for NSW,” he said.

“They appear to be waiting for an accident to happen so their statistical data can

warrant a change in the conditions.

“We cannot wait for a pupil of the school, or any other member of the public, to be

killed or injured before steps are taken to make MacDonalds Rd safer for pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

“Proactive action is required now, not later,” Whittington said.

Another local and President of Lisarow Public School P&C, Hamish Neal, echoed Whittington’s comments.

“Safety is paramount for children and the community,” he said.

“It should be our first, second and third priority.

“We are seeking a slight adjustment in the speed and other traffic calming measures, consistent with the surrounding community roads.

“Like myself, most people would be shocked to find that MacDonalds Rd is 60km/h when surrounding roads are 50km/h” Neal said.

Prime Minister Albanese set to buy a local house

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is in the process of acquiring a clifftop property on the Central Coast, where fiancée Jodie Haydon’s family has deep roots.

The property, located in a beachside suburb, offers “uninterrupted ocean views from all levels” and has been described as “clifftop perfection,” according to 2GB radio host Ben Fordham, who first reported the story on Tuesday, October 15.

The home, which boasts four bedrooms and three bathrooms, was sold in September for an undisclosed sum, as reported by Domain.

A real estate listing for the property highlights its idyllic location, perfect for “sun, whale watching or spectacular sunsets year-round”.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister confirmed that

Albanese is planning to buy the home on the Central Coast, where Haydon grew up and where three generations of her family currently reside.

“When the process is complete, it will be declared on the parliamentary register.

Albanese, who previously resided in Sydney’s inner-west suburb of Marrickville before

moving into The Lodge in Canberra, commented on the upcoming purchase, saying, “Jodie’s a Coastie, and spending time there is awesome”.

This new property marks a significant lifestyle shift for Albanese, moving from the bustling city life of Sydney to the tranquil shores of the Central Coast.

He is also in the process of selling an investment property in Sydney’s inner west, with a price guide nearing $2M.

This property made headlines earlier this year when Albanese’s former tenant publicly spoke about being asked to vacate as the property was listed for sale.

Albanese cited personal life

changes as the reason for selling the investment home, which comes as he prepares for a “new chapter” with his fiancée.

The couple became engaged in February, making Albanese the first prime minister to get engaged while in office. However, he has made it clear that they will hold off on wedding plans until after the

next federal election, expected by May.

The decision to buy the coastal property reflects Albanese’s deepening ties to the Central Coast and his commitment to balancing both personal and professional milestones while leading the country.

Register for Gosford seniors forum on Tuesday

The Federal Assistant Minister for Women, Social Security, and Ageing, Kate Thwaites, will participate in a seniors forum on Tuesday, October 22 in Gosford.

Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid has organised the forum which will be an opportunity for the community to learn about the work being undertaken by the Federal Government to help seniors with the cost of living.

The Minister and Dr Reid will

also respond to questions from those attending.

Representatives from Services Australia will be available to assist with a range of matters and queries.

“I am focused on assisting our community with the cost of living and information about support is available,” Reid said.

“The Federal Labor Government is providing a $300 energy rebate to every household, making PBS medications cheaper, and have established Medicare Urgent

Care Clinics to make it easier to see a bulk-billed doctor.

“My office has been able to organise several successful cost-of-living and seniors forums across our community, providing up-to-date information and assistance to community members.

“Our next seniors’ forum will welcome Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing, and Women, Kate Thwaites, who will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

“If you are unable to make

this forum, you can contact my office for a cost-of-living kit to be sent to you,” Reid said.

The Robertson Seniors Forum will take place at Central Coast Leagues Club on Tuesday, October 22 from 10am until 11am.

Registration is essential: phone Reid’s office on 02 4222 2400 or visit his website: drgordonreidmp.com.au/ourcoast-community/robertsonseniors-forum

Dr Gordon Reid at a previous forum

From left: Hamish Neal, Michael Whittington, David Mehan and Lisarow Primary students at MacDonalds Rd, Lisarow

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in a backyard on the Central Coast

Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon

Photo: CCN archive

Turtles already nesting in new wetland habitat

Within 24 hours of a new turtle habitat being established at Springfield Wetland, a turtle was spotted sitting on the nesting box.

Members of Springfield Residents Association introduced the turtle island habitat last Thursday, October 10 as part of a citizen science project.

The concept, aimed at conserving threatened Australian freshwater turtles, was developed by the 1 Million Turtles Community Conservation Program in association with University of Western Sydney and partner universities and agencies.

Springfield Wetland was considered highly suitable for the 1 Million Turtles citizen science project due to its location, proximity to universities and schools and

community interest in the wetland.

And they were right. Glenys Ray, advocate for the

wetland and its inhabitants, said that within 24 hours of the turtle island habitat being put in place in the wetland, there

Nominations open for Wyong Woman of the Year

Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris is encouraging residents in the Wyong electorate to nominate outstanding women for the Wyong Woman of the Year Awards 2025.

Nominations are now open for women in the local community who go above and beyond across the Wyong

electorate to make the area a better place.

The awards recognise and celebrate women, who contribute to their community as businesswomen, role models, volunteers, leaders, and mentors.

“Let’s acknowledge the outstanding women who lead with passion and inspires others throughout the year,” Harris said.

“There are many amazing local women across the Wyong electorate working tirelessly and committed to improving the lives of many.”

Applicants must live in the Wyong electorate and be aged 18 and over.

For more information and to nominate visit www. davidharrismp.com.au

Nominations close 3pm, Monday, October 28.

was a turtle sitting on the nesting box.

“She was there for a number of extended periods during

Friday but then there was great excitement when she started nesting that afternoon,” Ray said.

Eastern long-necked (Chelodina longicollis) and Murray River short neck (Emydura macquarii) turtles call Springfield Wetland home and the hope is that they will not only be able to lay their eggs, but also have a ramped platform for sunning themselves.

“Habitat destruction and predation of eggs by foxes are the two biggest threats locally which is why efforts to ensure their survival are critical,” Ray said.

A community celebration will be held in coming weeks at the wetland where the community will have an opportunity to learn about the wetland and the turtle island.

Citizen science data will be easily provided through the use of TurtleSAT via a QR code by means of a mobile phone.

Mayor and Deputy to lead delegation to conference

Seven Central Coast councillors with voting rights will attend the annual NSW Local Government conference in November.

Council has submitted an Urgency Motion to be debated at the conference.

Two Liberal, three Labor, one Independent councillor and the mayor will make up the seven after Cr Belinda Neal questioned the original line-up which featured only two Labor councillors.

The seven voting delegates will be John McNamara (Liberal), Doug Eaton (Independent Liberal), Mayor Lawrie McKinna (Team Central Coast), Corinne Lamont (Independent), and three Labor candidates Neal, Kyle MacGregor and Margot Castles.

Two of the delegation are first-time councillors: Castles and Lamont.

Other councillors may attend but they will not have the right to vote on Motions put forward at the conference being held on November 17-19 at Tamworth.

The new councillors at their first meeting on October 8 voted to submit an Urgency Motion for debate at the conference about the Performance Improvement Order (PIO) under which the council is operating.

NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig imposed the Order during the election campaign to ensure the councillors were confined in their decisions in the first 12 months of their four-year tenure.

Among other restrictions, the

PIO requires Council to “obtain concurrence of the Office of Local Government to make major staffing decisions” including the termination of the CEO, the restructure of the organisation, or budget allocations.

The conference is an opportunity for the Coast to gain support from the 128 NSW Councils to question the PIO.

Central Coast is one of three councils emerging from periods of administration with PIOs in place.

Deputy Mayor Doug Eaton led the call at the October 8 meeting, the first meeting of the new council, to send an Urgency Motion to the conference condemning the PIO and calling on the Minister to withdraw it. His suggestion was adopted

along with Council seeking legal advice on the use of the PIO.

Funds have been allocated in the budget to reimburse the seven voting delegates the cost of registration fees, travel, accommodation, meals not covered by the conference registration, and the cost of the official conference dinner for an accompanying person of a councillor.

While it is open to a nonvoting councillor to attend the conference as an observer, approval to attend is subject to a written request to the CEO as outlined in the Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy. The next ordinary meeting of the new council is scheduled for Tuesday, October 29.

From left: Melinda Starr, Ricki-Lee Abrams who is Wyong Woman of the Year 2024, and David Harris

Mayor Lawrie McKinna (left) and Deputy Mayor Doug Eaton will lead the delegation

Associate Professor Dr Ricky Spencer from 1 Million Turtles giving the thumbs up to the turtle island habitat

High-tech specialist ambulance coming to Point Clare

The NSW Ambulance will roll out eight specially designed vehicles known as Hazardous Area Rescue Ambulances (HARA) and one is coming to the special operations team located at Point Clare.

These HARAs are the first of their kind in the world, optimising response capabilities during natural disasters and in difficult terrain.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the community would benefit from the specialist capabilities of the HARA Mercedes-Benz Unimog vehicles, as part of a major $14.8M funding package by the NSW Government to further build the state’s flood rescue capabilities.

improving the organisation’s capability to deliver the very best outcomes for patients.

They have been purpose modified by NSW Ambulance to withstand harsh environments with enhanced safety features including a reinforced exoskeleton to protect paramedics and patients from falling trees.

fleet giving clinicians greater access to patients during natural disasters, such as in fire grounds and floods.

“The 4WD vehicles will be operated by our highly trained special operations paramedics and have been specifically modified by NSW Ambulance to withstand harsh environments,” she said.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said NSW Ambulance service would be the first in the world to get these vehicles.

The HARAs are designed to drive through flood waters up to 1.2m and are equipped with safety features for operation in hazardous environments.

With youth crime continuing to be a significant concern for the community, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch renewed his calls in the latest sitting of State Parliament for the NSW Government to take stronger action on the issue.

Crouch highlighted the personal experiences of locals who reached out to him following a recent spike in crimes earlier in the year and called for practical responses to the increase in youth crime.

“It is the right of every individual to feel safe and protected in their own home, but unfortunately, a growing number of people do not feel this way following the recent spate of crimes of opportunity

The vehicles have also been made to operate around fire grounds, with the inclusion of a burn-over crew protection system, replacement of

flammable components, and by wrapping critical vehicle infrastructure in fire-retardant material.

The rear of the vehicle is a fully operational ambulance, with a specially designed

stretcher loading system to assist paramedics in patient handling and for patient comfort.

The HARAs are equipped with the latest technology and purpose-built features,

HARAs will be rolled out over the coming months, with the vehicles proposed to be strategically stationed at NSW Ambulance heavy rescue stations based in Tamworth, Rutherford, Cowra, Wagga Wagga and Bomaderry, as well as special operation team locations in Point Clare and Sydney.

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan said the HARAs were an essential addition to ambulance

Crouch calls for stronger, more practical response to youth crime

in our community,” he told Parliament.

“People in our community are demanding action, they want to be able to feel safe in their homes, and that is why it was so important to raise this issue in Parliament.

“The Minns Labor Government talks big on acting on youth crime and supporting young people at risk of crime, but as usual, there are only big announcements that are light on details and substance,” Crouch said.

He said that following months of government inaction, the NSW Opposition forced the Minns Labor Government to establish an inquiry into regional and rural crime to enable a whole-of-government approach to escalating crime in regions like the Central Coast.

“Frustratingly, this government had to be forced to the table after initially refusing calls to launch an inquiry into regional crime,” Crouch said.

“The inquiry will explore the root causes of youth crime,

examine services available for youth and families in the regions while also addressing pressures faced by law enforcement in tackling crime.”

During his speech in Parliament, Crouch recounted

the stories of locals who had written to him about their concerns, including a mother of three, Celeste, whose home had recently been broken into.

“These criminals had broken in, stolen butchers’ knives from Celeste’s kitchen and wandered around the family home while Celeste, her husband and her three young children were sound asleep,” Crouch said.

“The most concerning part of Celeste’s story is that six teenage boys were later arrested in relation to her case, aged between 14 and 17 – a frightening thought.”

Crouch said that he had written to the NSW Attorney General Michael Daley to raise the community’s concerns, and that he would continue to call on the Minns Labor Government to take concrete steps to

“These high-tech vehicles, will mean our world class clinicians will be even better prepared for any scenario they face – which could include floods or bushfires.

“Once they’re rolled out these vehicles will be an invaluable addition to NSW Ambulance,” Park said.

addressing youth crime.

“We need strong action on youth crime, but we also need proper investment into early intervention methods to prevent at-risk young people from becoming involved in a life of crime.

“The regional crime inquiry will be a significant step toward identifying effective measures to reduce youth crime in our region and address broader criminal activity.

“I want to express my deep thanks to the community members who bravely came forward to tell their stories, which have now been provided to the Shadow Minister for Police for the inquiry,” Crouch said.

Your next rates rise can’t go above 4.3 per cent

The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has set the maximum amount by which Central Coast councillors can increase next year’s rates.

The councillors can decide to set rates lower than 4.3 per cent but they can’t go higher than that.

Council’s decision to set the rates will not take place until late in the current financial year

and will take effect from July 1, 2025.

On October 1, IPART published its core rate pegs for 2025/26 range from 3.6 per cent to 5.1 per cent across the 128 NSW councils, with the Coast’s set at 4.3 per cent.

That included a core rate peg of 3.8 per cent and an extra 0.5 per cent for population factors.

IPART said the rate pegs limited the amount by which councils could increase their

rates income, while allowing them to meet changes in the cost of providing services.

The core rate pegs are based on employee cost increases, forecast inflation and councilspecific changes in emergency services levy contributions, and election cost estimates.

A population factor was also applied to 72 of the 128 councils with growing populations, increasing their final rate pegs.

“These councils will be able to spread the larger increase in general income across the increased number of ratepayers,” IPART said.

“The rate pegs including the population factors range from 3.7 per cent to 7.6 per cent.”

In response to Coast Community News, Council said the rate peg of 4.3 per cent for Central Coast Council was within the expected range that Council planned for next financial year.

“The resolution to adopt the 2025/26 rate in the dollar that is applied to each property land value, will be included as part of the adoption of the Operational Plan which is expected in June 2025,” Council said.

IPART has decided that no limit is to apply to the percentage by which NSW councils can vary their domestic waste management (DWM) annual charges for the 2025/26 financial year.

“This decision takes into account the NSW Office of Local Government’s regulatory approach for DWM annual charges,” IPART said. Under the Local Government Act 1993, councils must set DWM annual charges such that the income obtained from charges does not exceed the reasonable cost to the council of providing those services.

Merilyn Vale

NSW Ambulance will be the first in the world to get the high-tech HARA

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch in Parliament

Coast Connect

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Lawrie McKinna

To read more, search ‘bus stop improvements’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au Central Coast Council news and

Thank you to everyone who voted at the recent Central Coast Council elections. I’m honoured to be your Mayor for the next two years, and I’m committed to working hard to ensure Council delivers on community priorities.

Your confidence and trust in Council is my priority, and my focus will be on leading our new Councillors to work cohesively as a team as we determine important community matters. I appreciate the range of experience and diversity of perspectives they will bring to the debate.

The Central Coast’s population is growing, and we’ll continue to deliver the essential services and projects needed to support this growth. Engaging with residents in a meaningful way will be key to ensuring we deliver what our community needs, in a way that is future-focussed and financially responsible.

Community events bring our residents together to celebrate what’s great about life on the Central Coast. ChromeFest, a signature event in our local calendar showcasing vintage cars, retro fashion and great entertainment, is on from 25 to 27 October at The Entrance. I plan to be there on the Sunday, and looking forward to meeting many of you and hear what you love about coastal living and your ideas for the future.

As Mayor, I’m committed to advocating at both the State and Federal Government level for the things our community has told me are important to them, including improved transport infrastructure, better housing options, enhanced health services and more considered planning. I will do all I can at a local level to ensure our voices are heard and our residents are supported.

Our region has enormous economic and social potential to drive long-term prosperity. The Central Coast, with our sparkling beaches and lush hinterland is a destination of choice for tourism and I believe that by working collaboratively with other levels of government we will be able to grow our visitor economy.

I’m confident that by taking a proactive and progressive approach as a newly formed Council, engaging regularly with our community, and ensuring we have the right plans and processes in place, the Central Coast has a very bright future ahead.

Lawrie McKinna, Mayor

The next Council meeting will be held at Wyong, 6.30pm 29 October 2024.

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

Bus Stop Improvements help keep people on the move

Accessible bus stops are essential to make the Coast more inclusive and liveable. Council is continuing to improve accessibility for public transport users through our Bus Stop Improvement Program. We are improving access at 43 bus stops this financial year.

Turn the tap off and tune in on Water Night

National Water Week 2024, is happening from October 21-27, with the theme “Accelerating Action.” We encourage the community to participate in Water Night on October 24 and turn off their household non-essential taps between 5-10pm. The initiative aims to raise awareness about water conservation and inspire sustainable practices in response to climate change.

Learn more and sign up at waternight.com.au

What’s on

ChromeFest 2024

Calling all car enthusiasts and rock ‘n’ roll fans to come together for the 16th year of ChromeFest.

• 25 - 27 October

• Memorial Park, The Entrance View program at chromefest.org

Free microchipping for your four legged friends

Help your pet find its way home if lost! Central Coast residents can get their dog or cat microchipped for free at our special event. Come along Saturday 26 October, 8.30am-2.30pm, at Socares Central Coast Animal Shelters at Charmhaven and Erina.

For more information, search ‘Pet Microchipping Day’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Have

your

say

on

plans for Hardys Bay foreshore

Help us develop a Masterplan for the Hardys Bay foreshore, which will outline upgrades required to improve the amenity, access, safety and environmental integrity of this area. Two drop-in community sessions will be held at Hardys Bay Community Church on 8 October (10am-12noon) and 22 October (6-8pm).

To find out more and have your say online by 29 October, go to yourvoiceourcoast.com

Live and Local

Bring your friends, have a great night out and experience the revitalised nightlife of Gosford.

• 1-2 November

• Free live music with 40+ musicians at multiple Gosford venues

Search ‘Live and Local’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Lucky lottery winners on the Coast

For the third time in as many weeks a Coastie has had a big win in the lottery.

Earlier a Norah Head man won $100,000, a Kangy Angy man won $12M and now a Summerland Point woman has collected $1.2M from last Saturday’s Lotto draw 4511. And also this week, a Woy Woy woman quickly snapped out of her post-holiday blues after returning from an overseas vacation to discover she’d won $100,000 in a Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw on September 23 while she was away.

Only days before Saturday’s draw the Summerland Point winner was joking with her daughter that she was going to win big one day.

“I checked my ticket on Saturday night and I couldn’t stop saying, Oh my god! Oh my god! Oh my god!,” the woman said.

“I didn’t sleep that whole night. I’m so glad it’s real - I could see it on my app, but I’ve been stressing that it was some sort of trick.

“I’m feeling better now that you’re ringing,” she said to the The Lott representative who rang with the good news.

“It’s funny because we always talk about what we’d do if we won the lottery. In fact, I’ve been talking about it since I was 25.”

The Woy Woy woman who won $100,000 in the Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw on September 23 said she’d never won anything in her life.

“I’d only arrived home from holidays a few days, and when I was going through my mail, I noticed a letter from The Lott,”she said.

“The letter was telling me to check my tickets which I thought was odd, and then I couldn’t believe what I was seeing.

“I’ve never even won a chook raffle in my life, let alone anything near $100,000.

“It’s huge for me. I’m a retiree and I could really use the money to get a bit more comfortable.”

Calls to fix Eastern Road Oval flooding

Central Coast Council has prioritised work on a Killarney Vale oval following concerns children were at risk of injury or drowning.

Eastern Road Oval floods in time of big rain events, with water pooling at the end of the oval.

Bateau Bay resident Philip Morrison said he feared for the safety of children when the oval flooded and asked Council to address the issue.

“My concern is for the safety of the children playing in the water,” Morrison said.

“One mistake and they could have been injured or drowned.

“Why would the people responsible for looking after these areas think it was okay to leave an oval flooded with no drainage.”

He said Council staff had advised him to lodge his inquiries through the Council’s

online portal, which he did.

“I have done so, and they have acknowledged

my inquiry,” he said.

“The point is I should not have to do anything.

“They should have made sure there was adequate drainage at the oval and if blocked, do something about it.

“This needs to be fixed before a child drowns.”

A spokesperson for Council said they acknowledged the drainage issues in the area of Eastern Road Oval and Council was working as a matter of priority to resolve the issue.

“While the area in question is designed as a drainage retention basin, which is a key component of our stormwater management, we recognise the concerns about water pooling,” the spokesperson said.

“In the interim, we ask the community to exercise caution around pooled water, particularly following rain events.”

Ocean Beach lifesavers shine in marathon swim

People might have seen two very dedicated – or crazy – Ocean Beach surf lifesavers swimming all over Broken Bay in the winter months and wondered why.

Richard Grimmond and Mark Davis challenged themselves to complete the Montenegro UltraSwim 33.3, a marathon swimming event that ran between October 4 and 7 in the Balkan country.

They began their preparation in March starting with a couple of kilometres several times a week to larger distances in the pool and longer ocean swims on the weekend.

Grimmond said the UltraSwim 33.3 brought people of diverse backgrounds together to swim in open water locations around the world.

“The swimming is still tough

– you may cover more than 10km in a day,” he said.

“We loved the idea of taking a marathon swim where we could cover the distance over several days, six or seven

swims, in warmer water.

“Add to this, you would swim with other people rather than undertaking the challenge alone, all while staying in a luxury hotel and having

someone else take care of all the event logistics.

“‘Afterwards you can relax, have a sports massage, and loosen your muscles in a spa pool.”

The swim offered the Aussie swimmers the opportunity to talk with ambassadors Michelle Ford, 1980 Australian Olympic Gold medallist, Ivan Puskovitch, 2024 Olympian US team, open water swimming and Andy Donaldson, three-time world record holder, open water swimming.

“The formal sessions and informal discussions around the hotel or boat transfers were priceless with these legends,’” Grimmond said.

Champagne awaited everyone at the end of four days of swimming in testing conditions.

Despite the weather and scheduled plan changes, the 33.3kms was achieved for 150 of the 193 starters.

It’s a fact: our new 15 councillors are irreplaceable

If a vacancy occurs in the ranks of our Central Coast councillors, it will not be filled.

The Local Government Act says a council that has resolved to reduce councillors at the next election will not replace a councillor in the current term.

A council can lose a councillor for a whole host of reasons: they die, they resign, they are disqualified from holding civic office; they miss three consecutive meetings without prior approval; they become

mentally incapacitated, or bankrupt.

There is also another reason that covers every other possible reason: if they cease to hold the office for any other reason.

The Central Coast voted in a referendum at the September 14 council elections to reduce the number of councillors from 15 to nine and the wards from five to three at the 2028 elections.

Council has confirmed that the Local Government Act says that where a council as a result of a Constitutional referendum

has a reduction in councillors at the next election then casual vacancies are not filled until the number of councillors fall below the new total.

For the Coast, that means we would have to lose more than six councillors before a seventh one would necessitate a byelection.

The results of the referendum were announced on September 30, with Yes receiving 62 per cent of the vote and No receiving 38 per cent.

The newly elected Council is responsible for determining

how new wards will be created, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 which describes how councils can divide areas into wards and prescribes how this must take place not less than 12 months before an election.

The community will have an opportunity for input through a public exhibition process.

CEO David Farmer said the referendum results reflected consultation conducted in 2021 by the then Administrator, Dick Persson, and Acting CEO, Rik Hart, who believed that

larger wards could help councillors think of the whole community.

“A report will be prepared for Council to consider, with options for new ward boundaries proposed in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act,” Farmer said.

“Once Councillors have considered the report, there will be an opportunity for community input.”

Water pools on Eastern Road Oval at Killarney Vale after big rain events

It was champagne all round when Richard Grimmond and Mark Davis made it to the finish line

Merilyn Vale

Terrigal dancer to support world’s biggest stars

Terrigal dancer, Kyra Johnson, is packing her bags to travel to the US to join a dance group supporting the likes of Beyonce, Sabrina Carpenter, Jennifer Lopez and Tate McRae.

Bloc LA, the agency responsible for providing dancers to some of the music industry’s biggest mega-stars, signed the former Terrigal High School student to a three-year contract late last month.

Johnson is now moving to Los Angeles to train with the group and begin working on tours and music videos with some of the world’s biggest stars.

“Not dancing was never an option,” said Johnson, who has been dancing since she was two.

“I am most alive when the music starts, and it takes over my soul.

“I have chased my dreams to LA and won’t stop until they become a reality,” Johnson said.

“Creating content, entertaining and performance is my way of sharing my passion with the world.”

Johnson was attending a dance convention when Bloc LA scouted her out for a meeting.

That was a month ago.

Johnson returned to the Coast and held no great hopes but then the job offer came.

“The other day I signed the contract but I’m still pinching myself,” she said.

Johnson danced on the Central Coast with Art Dance Academy, Dance Energy and Milk Dance studios and has danced in Sydney with KCC elite hip hop Crew and was this year’s champion solo dancer at Danchello on the Gold Coast, among a host of dance and choreography prizes.

On Terrigal High School’s facebook page, where her new job was announced, Johnson wrote about her journey to

become a professional dancer.

“I am reminded that dreams are not just fantasies. They are goals worth chasing.

“Every setback, every late night rehearsal, and every moment of doubt was a stepping stone towards something greater.

“The path may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable,” she said.

Johnson left Terrigal High at the end of Year 10 in 2018. She said she would put her cosmetic and fine line tattoo business K Kollective Artistry on pause while she followed her dream.

The Wyoming Community Centre was at capacity on Friday, October 4 as Federal Member for Dobell Emma McBride hosted one of her regular seniors’ forums with Services Australia and the Seniors Rights Service.

The forum followed the September 20 increases to the Age Pension, Rent Assistance, and Home Care Packages, and expansions to income and asset tests for income support and the Seniors Health Care Card.

McBride also updated seniors on the Labor Government’s work to ease the cost of living, including tax cuts for every taxpayer, $300 energy bill relief for every household, cheaper medicines, and increases to bulk billing.

She said the Labor Government was easing pressure by freezing the maximum cost of PBS prescriptions and adding more medicines to the PBS.

Share your transport wish list Regular forum to update seniors about services

For the next five years, eligible cardholders won’t pay more than $7.70 for medications on the PBS.

Information Service staff from Services Australia and book face-to-face appointments to discuss their future.

This is the third seniors forum McBride has held in her community since July, following previous events in Long Jetty and Toukley.

“Over the past eight years as the Member for Dobell, I’ve held seniors’ forums across our community to keep local seniors up-to-date with the information and support,” she said.

“I’m working to deliver costof-living relief for local seniors, including increases to the pension, energy bill relief and cheaper medicines.

Transport for NSW wants to hear suggestions from Central Coast residents as it works on a Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) set to be delivered for the Coast in 2025.

The planners say they want to capture what makes the Central Coast unique, ensuring the transport infrastructure supports every resident’s way of life.

Some of the suggestions already submitted include a bicycle path from Kooindah

Representatives from Services Australia and Seniors Rights Australia gave presentations on the changes and the assistance they can provide.

Waters to Wyong railway station; a new freight siding at Berkeley Vale to help connect the food manufacturing precinct to Sydney and Newcastle ports; a boardwalk across Copacabana Lagoon and another one between Avoca and north Avoca to allow walkers, runners and cyclists access from MacMasters to Terrigal.

A light rail from Gosford to the beaches was another suggestion, along with diverting Central Coast Hwy away from Gosford waterfront,dismantling

Attendees took the opportunity to speak with Financial

“Expanding the eligibility for the Seniors Health Care Card means more people can access to cheaper medicines,” McBride said.

Brian MacGowan Bridge and allowing direct access to grassy areas between the water and the stadium.

These are a few of the two dozen suggestions given to Transport NSW on an interactive map but the Central Coast has more than 360,000 residents so there must be thousands more ideas on how to improve transport on the Coast.

A spokesperson for Transport NSW said they wanted to hear suggestions from residents.

“Before we draft the plans, your feedback is invaluable,”

the spokesperson said.

“Whether it is your daily journey, or the transport services you depend on, we want to hear from you.

“Tell us about your experiences, your challenges, and what you believe can make the Central Coast’s transport network better.”

You can submit your suggestion and use the interactive map to drop a pin to highlight a particular concern, insight or feedback at the website: www.haveyoursay. nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-coast

Kyra Johnson

Member for Dobell Emma McBride addressing the seniors forum

Traffic and parking at Koolewong

Temporary traffic and parking changes are expected this Thursday, October 17, and on November 1, at Koolewong Waterfront Reserve, Brisbane Water Dr between 7am and 6pm.

The entrance to the carpark and about 23 parking spaces, will not be available as the area is required by the High Speed Rail Authority to set up for marine geotechnical investigations in Brisbane Water.

An alternative entry to the carpark will be available and due to heavy vehicle movements expected in the area people should exercise caution, and follow all signage and traffic control direction.

Marine geotechnical investigations will be undertaken in Brisbane Water to assist with early planning and design for the proposed high speed rail network between Newcastle and Sydney.

Further traffic and parking changes are expected on Friday, November 1 between 7am to 6pm.

For more information: High Speed Rail Authority on 1800 958 562 or email info@hsra.gov.au

Coasties Who Care to continue their work

Coasties Who Care, a grassroots group focused on environmental protection, narrowly missed having their lead candidate, Lisa Bellamy, elected to the Central Coast Council.

Bellamy said she fell short by just 120 votes, with former Central Coast Council mayor, Jane Smith, securing the final seat in the Gosford West ward.

The group, consisting of Bellamy, Sarah Blakeway, and Tegan Mulqueeney, campaigned for the September 14 elections on a platform about protecting the natural environment, particularly the Kariong Sacred Lands, an area under threat of development.

Bellamy expressed disappointment at the outcome but remained optimistic about the impact their campaign made.

“We ran to raise awareness about the need to protect conservation bushland, especially Kariong Sacred Lands, from development,” Bellamy said.

“While we didn’t secure a seat, our message was heard loud and clear.”

Coasties Who Care’s second candidate, Blakeway, said they were surprised by how competitive their campaign became, highlighting how the group’s message resonated with voters.

“We stood firmly on protecting the Central Coast’s natural beauty, fostering community, and giving locals a voice in council decisions.

“The close result shows how important these issues are to the public.”

Coasties Who Care said they engaged other candidates to ensure their commitment to protecting Kariong Sacred Lands, which houses endangered species, wetlands, and culturally significant sites.

The land, located on 300 Woy Woy Rd, is zoned as C2, a

COPING WITH GRIEF

classification for high environmental conservation.

However, a rezoning proposal is under consideration by the State Government, which would allow for housing development.

Bellamy said they asked many of the council election candidates that, if elected, would they support a Motion for Council to write to the State Government and the private

land owner and developer, Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC), with a view to entering into negotiations to preserve the land at Kariong, which ensuring that DLALC was either financially compensated (under the Just Terms Compensation Act 1991) or given developable land of equal economic value.

“All candidates we spoke to agree to this action,” Bellamy said.

Mulqueeney said saving Kariong Sacred Lands was just the beginning.

“There are more conservation areas at risk, and we must act now to prevent future rezoning efforts,” she said.

“We are not anti-development and know we are going to need more housing, industry, and jobs on the Central Coast, but we believe there are other areas that could be used instead of conservation land.”

Despite the election outcome, the trio said they were determined to continue their environmental advocacy.

Saturday 16th November 2024

10.00am – 11.30am

Hillside Chapel

Palmdale Lawn Cemetery and Memorial Park, 57 Palmdale Road, Palmdale NSW 2258

Helping someone who is grieving NALAG Guest Speakers

We invite you to attend an informative session with guest speakers from NALAG – National Association for Loss and Grief (NSW) Inc with us to discuss Coping Strategies, Helping someone who is grieving, Christmas can still be special.

Coping with Christmas has much to do with challenging your expectations of the ‘perfect’ Christmas. It is important to acknowledge that you are not totally responsible for others’ happiness, but also that they cannot assist you if they are not aware of your pain or concerns. Be gentle with yourself, trying not to expect too much of yourself or those around you, makes good sense, but often needs planning.

From left: Tegan Mulqueeney, Lisa Bellamy and Sarah Blakeway

Cr MacGregor draws a long bow

In CCN’s issue dated October 10 Cr Kyle MacGregor criticised the referendum and compared it to ‘disgusting ideologies’ of ‘Reagan and Thatcher’.

The headline stated it was a ‘stirring speech in favour of democracy’.

Both councillor and headline draw long bows.

The referendum gave citizens a right to decide the size of council – that’s democracy and the people have spoken convincingly.

The councillor says voters didn’t know what we were voting on.

Yes we did – a majority said ‘no’ to big and dysfunctional committees.

Voters are not mugs.

The argument about reduced representation is weak.

State and federal politicians

Read

forum

represent electorates of 50,000-60,000 people with few personal staff.

Councillors have many council staff to assist them.

It’s also nothing to do with Reagan and Thatcher – both of whom were voted in more than once each.

Email Oct 14, Peter Bayley, Avoca Beach

Evident that party politics is entrenched

It was fascinating reading the Forum section (CCN October 10), in the fact that almost all letters were in regard to the recent local council elections.

I cast my vote pre-poll and while standing in the queue I canvassed the views of my fellow voters.

I asked how they were voting and in particular if they would vote Yes or No in the referendum.

Most were voting in accordance to major political party lines.

The most interesting facet was that if given the choice to vote for NO councillors at all the overwhelmingly majority was a yes vote.

The re-election of Lawrie McKinna as mayor and Doug Eaton as his deputy is evident that party politics is entrenched in local government.

We do not need nine let alone 15 second-rate party hacks

with their collective noses in the public trough.

There should be only one person elected by the people as mayor to act in honorary capacity to cut ribbons and open public buildings.

Email Oct 15, Barry Lloyd, Bateau Bay

Cannot justify spending for legal opinion

I read with interest your report on the first meeting of our new Council.

The proposal to use ratepayers’ funds to seek legal opinions when funds are at a premium cannot be justified.

The councillors provided no evidence how the PIO will unnecessarily restrict their performance of duties nor what it stops them from implementing.

It only lasts for 12 months and will provide them with an opportunity to fully develop

their policies and proposals (including associated budgeting) in the years ahead.

It is interesting though, that the Labor government in NSW put the PIO in place and the Labor members of Council oppose it.

Bureaucrats are not making decisions as is claimed, just putting a framework in place for the first 12 months for Council decision making.

Following the financial position the last Council left us in and the pain experienced to get us back on track, some training wheels are necessary to protect ratepayers.

As for the other article claiming a reduction in council numbers will limit ratepayers’ ability to work with Council, well all I can say is that the ratepayers have spoken and endorsed the reduction in councillors to nine.

Ratepayers are a perceptive lot and some may have formed the view that there were too many snouts in the trough.

Get on with the job councillors and prove to the ratepayers that you can do a better job than the administrator.

Email Oct 15

Peter Burfitt, Ourimbah A few spoil it for many

So the concerns of a handful of homeowners that purchased properties adjoining a sports field should come before the thousands of residents who would benefit from council upgrading the facility? (Kincumber residents concern over tree removal CCN Oct 3) We constantly criticise the council for wasting/spending ratepayers’ money on things and then when they have the opportunity to get a grant and contribute to the Coast without costing the ratepayer, we let a few people throw it away?

Woman sought over train incident Stealing and fraud offences at Toukley

The Police Transport Command is seeking assistance from the public to identify a female who could be able to help them with their investigation in relation to an intimidation incident.

It occurred on a train at Gosford at about 8am on Monday, August 26.

The female is described as Caucasian appearance, approximately 50 years of age,

Investigation into Kanwal assault

Tuggerah Lakes Police are currently investigating an alleged assault that occurred at a supermarket at Kanwal.

slim build with blonde hair in a bun, brown sunglasses, cream coloured shirt, blue jeans and carrying a brown coloured handbag.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or have knowledge of the identity of the person depicted to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers with reference number C100423086.

Tuggerah Lakes Police are calling on community assistance to identify a man who might be able to help their investigation into an incident at Beachcomber Hotel, Toukley.

Police are investigating alleged stealing and fraud related offences that occurred at about 2pm on Friday, March 22.

It was reported that a patron left his wallet in the gaming room at the hotel but a short time later when the person returned to retrieve their wallet it was gone.

It was reported that at about 4pm on Wednesday, October 9, a female was allegedly assaulted at the Kanwal Village Shopping Centre.

A teenage boy has been charged over alleged driving and property offences following a pursuit at Umina Beach in the early hours of Friday, October 11.

Images obtained from cctv footage around the time of the incident depicts a female person that police say might be able to assist them with their inquiries.

Anyone that has information about this incident or knows the person depicted in the footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Quote the police report No. E 177204902.

Credit cards within the wallet were later fraudulently used.

Images obtained from CCTV footage, around the time of the incident depicts a male person that police say might be able to assist them with their inquires.

Anyone that has information

Teen charged over Umina Beach offences

about this incident or knows the person depicted in the footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Quote the police report No. E 96163604.

Brisbane Water Police attempted to stop a vehicle on Trafalgar Ave, Umina Beach at about 2am.

before alcohol was taken.

Police allege that the vehicle - which had been reported stolen - was used a short time earlier in two break and enter offences in which liquor businesses were rammed

When the vehicle allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.

With the assistance of PolAir, police pursued the vehicle to a Umina Beach address where the driver fled into a home.

A subsequent search of the property was undertaken, with police allegedly locating and seizing several items of interest.

A 14-year-old boy was arrested at the scene and taken to Gosford Police Station where he was charged on two counts

of aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence, two counts of destroy or damage property, police pursuit - not stop - drive recklessly, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, and never licensed person drive vehicle on road.

He was refused bail to appear before a children’s court on Friday, October 11 where he was granted conditional bail to appear before the same court on Friday, November 22. Inquiries into the incident are ongoing.

John Smith Online Oct 11

you help police identify this woman

ChromeFest, one of Australia’s biggest car shows and community events is on again at The Entrance over the weekend October 25-27.

It’s also one of NSW’s largest rock’n’roll and rockabilly festivals, paying tribute to all makes and models of cars pre1979.

ChromeFest is in its 16th year and one of Central Coast Council’s major community events, attracting about 50,000 to The Entrance last year.

There will be an exciting lineup of more than 10 live bands across five stages –Chrome After Dark, a free Friday evening show in Memorial Park, a ticketed event on Saturday night at Mingara – as well as a Pin Up competition, fashion parades, stalls, displays, car cruises and much more over the three-day event.

Saturday night’s ticketed event, Saturday Night Jive, is back in full swing featuring USA band, Lance Lipinsky & the Lovers.

Lance is an unforgettable live entertainer with show-stopping boogie woogie piano antics that you don’t want to miss.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the annual ChromeFest attracted thousands of locals and tourists, fostering great community spirit and generating significant

economic benefit for the region.

“Last year, approximately 50,000 attended, injecting more than $11M into our local economy and we expect that this year will be even bigger,” he said.

“This major event with over 450 show cars, entertainment, and a retro vibe is a fun day out for all ages and provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many of our older residents.”

The festival will include Show N’ Shine and iconic classic car displays; retro market stalls, trade stalls and general market stalls; five outdoor stages boasting undercover dance

Get your motor running for ChromeFest

floors and live entertainment; vintage glamour fashion parade; the Australian Pin Up Pageant NSW grand final; The Entrance Social Hub; roving entertainment; DJ stage; Paint N’ Chrome workshops; and the ChromeBar located in the Bayview Mall and Short St carpark.

There will be some road closures in the area from 5am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Check out the program of events planned for ChromeFest weekend at chromefest.org or Council’s website at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

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 support 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.

The display of classic cars is the highlight of ChromeFest

The retro rockabilly vibe entices visitors to ChromeFest

Wayside Bride premiere at Red Tree Theatre

Red Tree Theatre at Wyong is bringing the regional premiere of Wayside Bride to local audiences from October 19 to 26.

Written by award-winning Australian playwright Alana Valentine, this heartfelt production first wowed crowds including the Prime Minister at Belvoir St Theatre in 2022, and now it’s Wyong’s turn to experience the touching stories that celebrate love, community, and the iconic Wayside Chapel.

Set in Kings Cross during the 1960s and 70s, Wayside Bride brings to life the real stories of couples who found love and sanctuary at the Wayside Chapel, often after being rejected by traditional churches.

Under the compassionate leadership of Reverend Ted Noffs, the chapel became a haven for those who needed it most—a place where love could thrive no matter the circumstances.

The production is directed by Rosie Ross, known for her previous work at Red Tree Theatre on Picnic at Hanging

Rock, American Idiot, and Space Cadets.

Bringing the iconic role of Ted Noffs to life is James Beggs, who will portray the pioneering spirit and empathy that made Noffs a hero to so many.

This play carries special meaning for more than just its characters.

Alana Valentine’s own mother was married at the Wayside Chapel, weaving a deeply personal connection into the fabric of the story.

Similarly, Kate Thomas, who plays Margaret Noffs, the wife of Ted Noffs, shares her own bond with the history of the chapel – her parents were married by Noffs in 1976 at his last “off-site” wedding.

“He felt like a part of my family growing up, as he was in my parents’ wedding photo,” Thomas said.

“’He has always held a special place in my heart, and I learned how special he truly was as I got older.

South Korean writer Han Kang won the 2024 Nobel Prize for Literature for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.

She is the first South Korean writer to win the prize, and only the 18th woman, of 121 winners to date.

Her best-known novel The Vegetarian, published in Korea in 2007, was her first to be translated into English in 2015, and won the Man Booker International Prize in 2016, equally with translator Deborah Smith.

The Vegetarian was her international breakout followed by Human Acts, The White Book, Europa and Greek Lessons and the short work Convalescence.

Her latest novel, We Do

“It’s such a beautiful fullcircle moment for me to be playing Margaret Noffs, as a tiny part of his story is a huge part of mine.”

Red Tree Theatre’s artistic director, Joshua Maxwell described Alana Valentine as one of Australia’s greatest storytellers.

“She finds the beauty and heart in some of this nation’s most brilliant yet often unsung heroes,” Maxwell said.

“Ted Noffs was ahead of his time – fighting for love, inclusion, and community when the world wasn’t always ready for it.

“We’re honoured to bring this beautiful piece to life.”

In Wayside Bride, Valentine blends humour, tenderness, and raw humanity, offering audiences a reflection on social justice, courage, and the power of love that still resonates today.

Performance dates are October 19 to 26, tickets sales at www.redtreetheatre.org.au

There is some coarse language, and it’s rated 13plus.

Han Kang wins Nobel Prize for Literature 2024

Not Part, about a writer researching the 1948/49 Jeju uprising against the Cold War division of the Korean peninsula and its impact on the family and her friend will be published in 2025.

The Vegetarian, a macabre tale of brutality, a novel in three acts, follows the choice of an unremarkable woman to give up meat, triggering unprecedented abuse from family.

The Nobel committee praised Han’s physical empathy for the vulnerable,

often female lives of her characters.

Greek Lessons is narrated by a woman who has lost her mother, and her son to the custody of his father, and is losing her ability to speak.

She becomes the student of a man who teaches ancient Greek, who is losing his connection to place and family, and his eyesight.

The autobiographical White Book is dazzling, touching, at times mystical, and shortlisted for the Man Booker International in 2018.

It is an art book, an extended poem, about all things white.

We could go on with musings on Kang’s writings, but instead we are going to read one of these novels in book club.

Julie Chessman

Gruffalo returns to Wyong from The West End

Take your favourite bedtime story from page to stage in the incredible family production of The Gruffalo, which is coming back to The Art House after sell-out seasons around the world.

Promising monstrous, musical fun for the whole family, this stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved picture book will dazzle little theatregoers and their adults too.

Join Mouse on a daring escapade through the deep, dark wood in this magical adventure.

Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl, and the party mad Snake.

Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures?

After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo, is there?

The Gruffalo is playing at The Art House Wyong from October 21 and 22 with morning and afternoon performances and a special after-school evening session.

For details go to:The Gruffalo | Whats On (thearthousewyong. com.au)

Film tour pushes boundaries of human achievement

The Radical Reels Film Tour, an exhilarating offshoot of the renowned Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival, is coming to Avoca Beach Theatre on October 24 featuring an Australian filmmaker for the first time in a long time.

Featuring breathtaking films including a 9,000km wilderness expedition and death-defying stunts from global and Australian athletes, it showcases the most heartstopping mountain sport films from around the globe.

The 2024 tour promises an unforgettable cinematic experience that pushes the boundaries of human achievement.

This year’s line-up features an unparalleled selection of short films, including one of the longest wilderness exhibitions ever recorded.

Audiences will be transported to the far corners of the earth, witnessing death-defying acts of pure genius on the edge of insanity, as elite athletes conquer their wildest dreams.

The tour offers breathtaking cinematography in some of the planet’s most spectacular

settings, from a 9,000km wilderness expedition combining skiing, canoeing, and mountain biking to free climbing in the Mexican desert.

Viewers will also embark on a journey along the ancient Silk Roads with nomadic peoples, experiencing the diversity of mountain cultures and extreme sports.

“The Radical Reels Film Tour embodies the spirit of adventure and pushes the limits of what’s possible in extreme sports,”

Australian Radical Reels tour director Jemima Robinson said.

From the comfort of their cinema seats, viewers will experience pulse-racing moments that showcase the very best in outdoor adventure filmmaking.

The Radical Reels Film Tour is a must-see event for outdoor enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and anyone who appreciates the raw beauty of nature combined with human determination.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit www. radicalreels.com.au

“This year’s selection will leave audiences inspired, amazed, and perhaps a little weak in the knees.”

James Beggs and Kate Thomas play Ted and Margaret Noffs

Proposals for Pearl Beach art trail close soon

Expressions of interest from artists, groups and community organisations wanting to take part in next year’s Ephemeral Art Trail at Pearl Beach (PBEAT25) will close at midnight on Sunday, November 10.

Those wishing to create an art installation for PBEAT2025 in the general category can check out the information sheet on the Arboretum website at www. pearlbeacharboretum.org.au/ pbeat-2025/pbeatforartists and lodge an EOI.

Proposals for ephemeral artworks are being sought for 15 artworks adult category, 10 artworks 16 years and under category, five local school group artworks, and five community group artworks.

All PBEAT2025 art installations and prizes will be approved by an experienced curatorial subcommittee which includes Biennale of Sydney board member Ann Flanagan.

There is a small entry fee which is waived for not-forprofit groups and schools.

entries: $500 for Years 4-6 and $500 for Years 7-10.

mentor the Local Emerging Artist.

no prize money will be awarded in the community category.

For the 16 years and under category the artist, or groups of artists, can also nominate an equivalent donation to their school.

Schools are also being encouraged to include a PBEAT2025 art installation in their art curriculum.

Prize money has been allocated to two winning school

Thanks to sponsorship from Belle Property Central Coast prizemoney includes $3,000 first prize (artist or group over 16), $1,500 highly commended (artist or group over 16), $500 young persons (artist or group 16 years and under) and $250 highly commended (artist or group 16 years and under).

A special part of PBEAT2025 will be two initiatives – Artist in Residence and Local Emerging Artist – made possible through Central Coast Council’s Creative Art Central program.

The successful artist in residence applicant will receive a $5,000 artist fee plus $2,000 towards two weeks accommodation in Pearl Beach. The Artist in Residence will run at least two community or school workshops and will also

The recently upgraded Crommelin Cottage at the Arboretum will be the PBEAT2025 Artist in Residence studio.

The successful Local Emerging Artist must live on the Central Coast and will receive a $2,500 artist fee in return for five days assisting the Artist in Residence and five days creating their own work.

Community groups are also encouraged to enter a proposal for an art installation, although

There will be a $1,000 People’s Choice Prize for any category awarded towards the end of the exhibition period.

Ideas for side events including environment themed community performances, workshops, and information sessions are welcome.

These could include art or craft making, poetry and prose, yoga, meditation, propagation, drumming, musical jam sessions, and/or an en plein air paint-in.

The organising committee is looking for additional sponsorship for PBEAT2025 to enable additional community events and is hoping to hear from prospective sponsors. The event will run for five weeks from March 29 to April 27.

See the Arboretum website for details or contact PBEAT2025 project manager Fiona Morrison by email pbeat@pearlbeacharboretum. org.au or by phone 0451 145 262.

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An installation from 2023 art trail called Where Seed Was Born by Kasia Neidzielak; 2022’s winning installation, Which Super Wildflower are You? by Anna Westcott and Cecile Ferguson

MISSING

MISSING

Wyong Drama Group scooped the pool at the Norfolk Island Theatre Festival held from September 21 to 29, walking away with six awards.

These included best actor for Laszlo Weidlich in the play

Allocateeism directed by Robyn Weidlich and best ensemble for It’s Complicated written by Sal Bartley with the cast of Sal Bartley, Julie Bailey and Helen Herridge, directed by Debbie Clark.

The play also received best original script.

Wyong Drama Group wins swag of awards

Best supporting male actor went to John Czerniecki in the play The Monologue directed by Ron Baker and best comedic performance went to Cathy DeVries also for The Monologue. Adjudicators Range Award went to Julie Bailey for her different performances in two plays, Allocateeism and It’s Complicated.

Gosford Frantastics also entered a musical one-act comedy play and received the Pure Enjoyment award for Positively Vile directed and accompanied by Fran Kendall.

Fun night out helps refugees settle on Coast

Following a very successful storytelling and live music event at the Gosford Fun Haus, Coastal CRISP has announced another live music event at Bay Rd Brewing Gosford on October 19.

Featuring the great party band, Dow Jones and the All Ordinaries, renowned for taking audiences on a best of the 80s, 90s and 2000s journey, there will be lots of great prizes to be raffled on the night

including dining and theatre packages, gift vouchers, handmade jewellery and ceramics from local businesses and artists.

The night is a fundraiser for Coastal CRISP, a nondenominational group of volunteers on the Central Coast whose aim is to enable a refugee family’s capacity to settle and thrive in our local community in a safe and supported way.

The Australian Government

Department of Foreign Affairs and Immigration is in partnership with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in promoting a nationwide Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP).

Hundreds of local groups across Australia have embraced this opportunity to make a practical and life-changing impact to individuals and families who have been approved a permanent visa to live in Australia.

Coastal CRISP has recently been matched with a young family who will arrive in Australia soon.

All of the group’s fundraising will support this family to settle into the community for the first 12 months while they develop their ability to speak English, enrol in social and community programs, find work, access childcare and any other support services where needed.

Tickets: www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1284789

Dow Jones and the All Ordinaries

From left: Cathy DeVries, Laszlo Weidlich, Sal Bartley, Julie Bailey, Helen Herridge, John Czerniecki

Woytopia Festival draws colourful crowds in Spring weather

Last weekend’s Woytopia Sustainable Living Festival at held at Woy Woy South Public School was a resounding success, attracting good crowds who enjoyed the cool sunny Spring weather.

The popular annual event featured a wide range of colourful activities, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Attendees were treated to performances by local bands and could participate in hands-

on activities, such as a circus school.

The festival also offered an array of food options and informative talks covering diverse topics like electric vehicles, land care, and local Aboriginal knowledge.

Organisers expressed their satisfaction with the day’s proceedings, noting that the event went off without a hitch.

Committee member Julian Bowker said they were pleasantly surprised by the large attendance on the day.

“We expected about 4,000 visitors yet we welcomed almost 7,000 according to our tally counters on the gates,” she said.

“The food vendors sold out, so that was good too.”

In addition to providing a fun and educational experience, Woytopia raised funds for local charities, further contributing to the community.

The festival’s success highlights the Central Coast’s strong support for sustainable living and community engagement.

Mimosa Duo set for Troubadour Folk performance

One of Australia’s most exciting, accomplished and original acoustic acts, the Mimosa Duo will make a very welcome and much anticipated return to Troubadour Folk on October 26.

Phoebe O’Shea on violin and vocals, and Morgan Haselden on guitar, are each brilliant internationally accomplished musicians in their own right. While they live on the Central Coast, their music is international – an individual and colourful collage of gypsy jazz with classy servings of French parlour, Argentinian tango, Celtic rhythms, son cubano and classical music –all served with truly creative originality and a healthy dose of humour.

Since they first teamed up while training at the Sydney Conservatorium in classical music they have lived and performed in France, where they were embraced into the heart of Gypsy Jazz, and toured

Australia, New Zealand and internationally.

They have entertained on luxury cruise liners, at the Sydney Opera House, numerous festivals and at literally

hundreds of events honing their craft.

O’Shea and Haselden are a couple in life as well as on stage, and they are now parents. They have performed with other top musicians over the

Food and Wine Fare in scenic Pearl Beach

past couple of years, including as part of the amazing Bathtub Gin Orchestra at the Troubadour.

This is their first show together as a duet at the club since 2019 and promise to bring their warm and rich program of song, gypsy jazz and Latin-inspired guitar and fiddle.

It’s uplifting and virtuosic music that leaves audiences calling out for more.

The Troubadour at the Everglades Club, Woy Woy, is a great folk music venue known for its warm and appreciative audience.

The show starts at 7pm.

Inquiries: 4342 6716.

More information is available on the Troubadour webpage: www.troubadour.org.au

Twist and Shout a delight for rock’n’roll fans

The Williams Brothers will be bringing their stage show Twist and Shout – A Salute to Rock and Roll to The Art House on October 27 as part of their 2024 Australian tour.

The show is a non-stop presentation of the greatest hits by the biggest artists of the 50s and 60s, with a nostalgic visual presentation of the brothers’ own journey as young boys growing up in one of the greatest eras of popular music.

Backed by their all-star band The Shy Guys, the show is full of energy from start to finish, hit after hit.

Highlighting the mega hits of Elvis, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers, Little Richard, Del Shannon, Jerry Lee Lewis, Australia’s Johnny O’Keefe, the show will take rock and roll

fans back to where it all began.

The Williams Brothers are the sons of one of Australia’s leading rock and roll pioneers Warren Williams.

The boys were born to carry on the tradition of one of the greatest eras in music history, recapturing the hit songs with

harmony that only brothers can produce together.

They have decades of experience behind them and a catalogue of music from all genres and on stage they have a natural chemistry of energy.

Warren Williams Jnr first graced the stage as a six-year-

old with his father on Brian Henderson’s Bandstand.

As the youngest member of the Bandstand family, he made several appearances both with his father and as a solo artist.

Throughout his teen years he continued to perform on

television and on stage, as well as acting in commercials, movies, and mini-series.

Darren Williams has an extraordinary five-octave vocal range extending from bass baritone to a female’s soprano which combined with his amazing showmanship resulted in him being named Australian Variety Entertainer of the Year and Best Make Vocal Performer by his peers.

Andrew Williams developed his musical skills from an early age leading his own rock bands in his early teens.

The guitar maestro has a diverse knowledge of popular music styles that is hard to match.

He has worked with a huge list of performers in major concert events, stage productions and recording studios.

Head off to the 17th annual Pearl Beach Food and Wine Fare and spend the day on Saturday, October 26, or even the weekend, to enjoy the natural scenic area nestled between Brisbane Water National Park and Broken Bay.

The Food and Wine Fare, hosted by Pearl Beach Progress Association, is a community activity that has been attracting large crowds for years to enjoy tasting and purchasing from a select range of Hunter and local boutique wines and gourmet foods.

This year the organisers are welcoming the return of wellknown favourites including award winning Little Creek Cheese, Hunter Olives, selection of chocolates from Sweet As, Natural Hive Honey, gluten-free products from Soul Free, organic homemade sauces from Enokido Miso, Spiralz Fermented Foods, For the Luv of Cakes, and the Original Smoke & Spice Co. Also, there will be a Pearl Beach selection from local suppliers including Mountain Pride Eggs, Margin’s Mushrooms, Crooked Creek savoury biscuits, and a selection of Burnt Honey produce.

Regular wineries at the Fare will be Old Inn Road Winery, and Millbrook Estate Winery, plus a new one this year, The Mulled Wine Co.

There will be refreshments and light lunches on the back deck of the memorial hall at attractive prices.

A hamper crammed with goods provided by the participants will be raffled to raise money to go towards the upkeep and management of the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall.

The Food and Wine Fare will be held between 10am and 4.30pm on Saturday, October 26 at Pearl Beach Memorial Hall, 9 Diamond Rd, and entry is free.

Some of the Woytopia entertainers

The Williams Brothers

Hunter Olives is just one of the all-time favourites returning to Pearl Beach Food and Wine Fare

Mimosa Duo

Photo: Lisa Haymes

Thrilling author talk at Erina

Ashley Kalagian Blunt, bestselling author of the psychological thriller Dark Mode, is set to visit the Central Coast for the first time, with an author talk at Erina Library on October 23 at 10.30am.

Blunt will discuss her gripping novel Dark Mode and share insights into its true crime themes and her research and writing process.

Dark Mode is partially set on the Central Coast, with part of its climax taking place at Pearl Beach.

The event promises an

engaging dive into the author’s exploration of the dark web.

After her own personal details were found for sale on the dark web, Blunt embarked on an investigation of this hidden world, experiences she will candidly share with attendees.

She’ll also delve into true crime obsessions and her research into the dark side of plants, including voodoo lilies, corpse flowers, and rat-eating pitcher plants, while offering practical tips on how to be safer online.

Dark Mode, published in multiple territories and

languages, was shortlisted for the 2024 ABIA General Fiction Book of the Year, the Ned Kelly Awards for Best Crime Fiction, and the Danger Award for Debut Fiction.

Blunt is also known for her memoir How to Be Australian, and her debut book My Name Is Revenge, a collection of fiction and essays.

She co-hosts the popular podcast James and Ashley Stay at Home, focused on creativity, writing, and health.

Her next thriller, Cold Truth, is highly anticipated and set for release in early 2025.

Not a run-of-the-mill comedy club

Get ready for an unforgettable night of laughter at the Gosford Comedy Club on Friday, October 18.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill comedy club—expect a night of conscious comedy with no low-hanging fruit or all-male line-ups.

Gosford Comedy Club at Funhaus Factory, 124 Donnison St, delivers fresh, diverse perspectives across gender, culture, and sexuality, featuring

five professional and emerging comedians ready to serve up sharp social commentary that makes you think and laugh.

Headlining the night is awardwinning comedian and writer Bec Melrose.

After winning Australia’s biggest comedy competition, RAW Comedy, Melrose quickly made her mark with her razorsharp wit and socially conscious edge.

The line-up also features Tavis Harrod, an up-and-

coming Sydney-based comedian known for his collaborative stand-up show Zinger Box and his laid-back, observational humour.

Kathryn Thomas, a recent RAW finalist, brings her relatable, witty style, while Bryce Lavery-Jacko, trained in improv at Chicago’s Second City, adds a theatrical twist with goofy characters and millennial humour with special guest MC. Online ticket sales: funhausfactory.org.au/whatson/

and

with your partner, friends or a

Bec Melrose; Bryce Lavery-Jacko

Ashley Kalagian Blunt

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Business & Property

Uncertainty over, and now another decade of milestones and memories

In a heartwarming turn of events, the Central Coast Council has granted Terrigal Bowling Club a 10year lease extension, securing the future of this beloved community hub.

This decision marks a triumphant chapter for the Club, which has been at the heart of Terrigal’s social and recreational life for more than 70 years.

Terrigal Bowling Club CEO and bowler, Craig Fairweather, expressed his gratitude over the Central Coast Council’s decision.

“We are profoundly grateful to the Council for granting us

this 10-year lease extension.,” he said.

“This decision not only secures our future but also ends a period of great uncertainty for our members.

“For years, our bowlers have faced the stress of short-term lease renewals, which cast doubt on the stability of our beloved club.”

Fairweather said this extension came after a turbulent few years for the club.

“In 2021 Central Coast Council considered reclassifying the land on which the club sits, with the intent to sell.,” he said.

CEO Craig Fairweather (left) and Board Chairman Alex Cameron

“This move was met with significant backlash from the club and community with a change.org petition campaign launched - “Council Cash Grab Threatens 70 years of History” - leading to a reversal of the decision within 24 hours.

“Club members were overjoyed by the news of the 10-year lease.”

Fairweather is now looking at installing a children’s play area – “a first in Terrigal for local families,” he said, “as no other pubs or clubs have a children’s play space – families currently have to go to Avoca, Erina or Kincumber”.

Chairman of the Board and

Bowling Club member Alex Cameron said the club meant a lot to him and the 10-year lease “means the world to all of us”.

“I’ve been a part of this place since my mum sent me down to get fish and chips in the 70s, and it’s where I met my wife, Aileen, through playing bowls,” he said.

“Over the years, we’ve celebrated, mourned, and supported each other like family.

“It’s more than just a club; it’s a small country town within Terrigal, where everyone knows your name and has your back.

“This 10-year lease extension

means the world to all of us,” Cameron said.

And women’s bowls president Lyndall Hegarty agreed, saying it was a very special place where people came from all over to play because of the community that’s been built there.

“For me, it’s all about the people - the friendships, the camaraderie,” she said.

“It’s a well-run club, and this lease extension is incredibly important to all of us who call this place our second home.”

Long-time bowler Ron Courts said “without this place, I’d go crazy; it’s my outlet and social hub having lost my wife who

was such a wonderful bowler herself”.

“We’ve all been through so much together and there really isn’t much else in Terrigal specifically for seniors,” said another long-time bowler since 1989 the locals fondly refer to as Noisy.

“Clubs like this are vital for both mental health and physical wellness,” bowler Robynne Small said.

Terrigal Bowling Club now looks forward to a bright future, continuing to serve as a vibrant hub for sports, social activities, and community events.

Bowlers (from left) Steve Howarth, “Noisy” and Ron Courts

From left: women bowlers Dianne Bailey, Robynne Small and Ladies President Lyndall Hegarty

Unrivalled opportunity to get business name up in lights

Central Coast stadium is back on the market with VenuesLive accepting proposals to become the new naming rights partner for the region’s home of live sport, entertainment and community events.

VenuesLive, the event and venue management company that operates the stadium on behalf of Central Coast Council, has commenced the search for a new partner beyond 2024 over the five to 10-year term.

Berkeley Vale owned and operated innovator, designer and manufacturer of premium personal protective equipment, Industree Group Pty Ltd, has had held the naming rights since 2022.

Industree Group has been a great partner who provided us with valuable support on the back of the challenging COVID period.

“Since then, the stadium has enjoyed two of the most successful years in its history and we are now ready to take it to the next level.

“Industree Group will remain one of our valued supporters going forward with plans already in place to host a special event here later this year,” Casey said.

Venue Manager Kath Casey said Central Coast stadium presented an unrivalled naming rights opportunity … a truly unique proposition for a prospective naming rights partner to increase brand awareness and the value of their brand.

“The stadium is one of the most picturesque properties

in Australian sport and entertainment and its location gives our naming rights partner access to the 350,000 residents of the Central Coast

and valuable exposure to the 5.8 million people living in Sydney and the Newcastle region,” she said.

“There will also be broadcast

and media exposure from up to 40 sporting, entertainment and community events held each year at the stadium.

“Locally owned and operated

The value of the stadium to the local community was recently highlighted by a Central Coast Council report that showed four huge sporting events smashed attendance and visitation records, creating scores of new jobs and pumping $9.76M in the local economy.

Peninsula chamber seeks early meeting with mayor

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the election of Councillor Lawrie McKinna as the new Mayor of Central Coast Council and the election of Councillor Doug Eaton as Deputy Mayor.

“The Chamber congratulates Mayor McKinna on his election in what appears to be the making of a very progressive Council”, Chamber President Matthew Wales said.

“It is extremely important that all councillors get behind and support the Mayor and the new Council to ensure that the city moves forward and continues down the path to financial stability”.

“Nobody should be under any illusions that whilst the Council is in a better financial position than pre-administration, it still has a long way to go before the burden of higher rates relaxes.

“This new Council and indeed the new Mayor has a heavy

burden to ensure that ratepayers are looked after and that basic services are maintained and infrastructure improved.”

Wales said that high on the Peninsula Chamber’s agenda was the upgrade of local town centres and ensuring that Council supported Woy Woy as a designated Transport Orientated Development node.

“It is imperative that Council support the State Government’s move to improve housing

supply in and around our town centres including affordable housing options,” he said.

“Therefore, it is crucial for the new Council to accelerate its Place Plan process and review the planning controls and management structures in the Woy Woy town centre and encourage redevelopment in both Umina Beach and Ettalong Beach.

“Also high on our list is the abysmal state of our local roads.

Mariners chairman Richard Peil hands the club back to Charlesworth

“It’s not acceptable to simply reseal sub-standard roads.

“The Council needs to invest in kerb and gutter, street drainage and footpaths on our key roads such as Rabaul St in Umina Beach.

“The Chamber will be seeking an early meeting with Mayor McKinna with the view to securing commitments to Peninsula-based projects that deliver outcomes that promote business activity,” Wales said.

In a heartfelt and concerning announcement, Richard Peil has officially stepped down as chairman of Central Coast Mariners, marking the end of a transformative era for the club.

Peil, whose leadership has been instrumental in orchestrating one of the most remarkable revivals in Australian football history, handed the reins back to former owner Mike Charlesworth, citing the financial challenges faced by smaller A-League clubs.

Peil’s decision comes after an impressive two-and-a-halfyear tenure during which he passionately financed and led the Mariners through their most successful period on record.

However, as Peil explains,

recent cuts to funding from the A-Leagues have made it untenable for him to continue alone.

“When I took over the club, funding from the APL was $2.35M per year,” he said.

“This was reduced to $2M last season, and now for this season, it has gone down to just $530,000,” Peil said.

“This drastic slashing has made it tough for me to improve the financial performance of the club to a position that’s sustainable for me to continue to fund solely by myself.”

These financial pressures not only complicated the club’s day-to-day operations but also derailed Peil’s ability to achieve key milestones that would have granted him the right to purchase a 50 per cent stake in the club – a deal originally agreed upon with Charlesworth

nearly three years ago.

Peil’s departure highlights the broader challenges within the A-League system, particularly for clubs that lack the financial muscle of larger teams.

Despite the financial hurdles, Peil praised the efforts of the A-Leagues Board, specifically

recognising the leadership of Stephen Conroy (A-Leagues Chair) and Gino Mara (Macarthur FC Chair).

Although Peil steps down with a “heavy heart,” he leaves the Central Coast Mariners in a far stronger position than when he first took the helm.

Under his stewardship, the club has achieved unprecedented success both on and off the field.

During Peil’s tenure, the Mariners doubled their corporate sponsorship income and reached record-high membership numbers, reflecting a deeper connection with the local community.

The club successfully launched a competitive A-League Women’s team, further expanding its footprint in Australian football.

The Mariners also secured a league-leading front-of-shirt sponsorship with Borg/Polytec, showcasing Peil’s effectiveness in attracting high-level corporate support.

On the pitch, the Mariners assembled the highest-valued squad in their history, while their academy, led by Matt

Simon and Cameron Stone, returned to producing top-tier talent.

Off the field, Peil helped secure more than $1M in government funding for domestic violence programs on the Central Coast, highlighting his commitment to using the Mariners’ platform for meaningful social change. The training infrastructure at the Mariners’ Centre of Excellence was vastly improved, ensuring the club’s long-term development capacity.

Peil’s tenure also saw the hiring of Mark Jackson as head coach, supported by club legends like Matt Simon, Danny Vukovic, and Josh Rose, ensuring that the Mariners have a capable and committed leadership team in place to guide the club through the challenges ahead.

Matthew Wales

One of the most picturesque venues in the country, Central Coast stadium on the Gosford waterfront

Richard Peil at Central Coast Stadium, the home of so many wins

Photo: CCN Archive

BUSINESS BRIEF

Demystifying Aboriginal land rights

The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) will be holding an online presentation entitled Demystifying Aboriginal Land Rights in NSW on Thursday, October 24.

It will unpack Aboriginal land rights and discuss working with First Nations groups in NSW.

The UDIA says that by 2030, some form of First Nations rights will be recognised in relation to 72 per cent of Australia’s land.

Collectively, NSW’s Aboriginal Land Councils are the largest private landholders by area in the state and the NSW Government recently announced that treaty consultations will commence in 2025.

On the Central Coast, Darkinjung is the largest nongovernment landholder, and one of 120 Local Aboriginal Land Councils in NSW.

The UDIA says that while the opportunities for First Nations groups and industry to partner are enormous, both sides need a better understanding of each

other to work effectively to deliver outcomes to benefit all.

Thomas Wright, Senior Associate of Chalk & Behrendt, will lead the UDIA TV event on October 24 from 1pm-2pm when viewers can learn about the social, political and legal history of Aboriginal land rights in NSW, the difference between Aboriginal land rights and federal native title, what connecting with Country and Aboriginal organisations means for development opportunities and challenges, and what all the legislation means for development and developers.

To register go to: udiansw. eventsair.com/utv20241024

Amber Lane among Australia’s most awarded whisky producers

Leading whisky distillery Amber Lane, in the Yarramalong Valley, is now one of the most decorated whisky distilleries in Australia, after taking out the Champion Small Batch spirit trophy at the 2024 Royal Australian Spirits Awards (RASA).

The distillery received the award - one of just two major trophies of the competition - at an award ceremony in Adelaide on Friday, October 4.

The Best Small Batch trophy recognises the best smallbatch spirit across the entire competition, spanning multiple spirit categories.

Amber Lane’s Apera 100 received the Best Cask Strength Whisky medallion, while its Alchemical Series - Fire and Silk Road expressions, came second and third respectively in the cask strength category.

The distillery also notched up gold medals for Alchemical Series - Air and Apera 100, along with silver awards for Alchemical Series - Water, Earth and Fire, Pineau 350 and Silk Road.

This is Amber Lane’s second consecutive stellar year at the

RASA following last year’s gold medals for its Silk Road and Noble Lane expressions, which also took out the category winner award.

The RASA aims to celebrate the success of the nation’s ever-growing craft spirits industry.

This year, judges blind-tasted 156 entries from both a technical and consumer appreciation perspective, noting each spirit’s appearance, aroma, flavour, and overall impression.

The award wins take Amber Lane’s 2024 gold medal haul to 10, including the champion trophy for the best Single Malt Whisky at the inaugural Sydney Royal Distilled Show, Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Australia’s equal best single malt at the International Wine and Spirits Competition.

Amber Lane Distillery coowner Rod Berry said they were overwhelmed with Amber Lane’s results at the 2024 RASA.

“To have our whisky named Best Small Batch Spirit means it has been recognised as the top spirit, across all spirit categories, in the competition - it’s an incredible honour,” he said.

“We are competing against some of the nation’s most iconic distilleries, who have been making spirits for decades, so it’s a testament to our whisky-making skills and the outstanding quality of whisky we’re producing.

“These awards take our gold medal tally for 2024 to 10 - we are now one of the most decorated whisky distilleries in the country and we’re just getting started.

“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved this year and we’re looking forward to what lies ahead on the Amber Lane journey.”

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

The distillery has become renowned for its large premium barrels, longer maturation cycles and the careful application of principles learned from European distilling traditions.

Amber Lane co-founder Rod Berry with the trophy

Thomas Wright

Renters can check if their rent is a fair price

Rent Check is a new free tool for renters to see whether the rent they are being asked to pay is fair.

Developed by the NSW Rental Commissioner, Rent Check delivers new transparency to renter and owners by providing updated, current data on rent prices for comparable properties in their suburb.

While some online real estate apps and websites are available to paint a picture of the rental market, they rely on advertised rent prices.

a particular location and if the price is above or below the median price for that suburb.

The new website will help renters compare pricing and identify excessive rent while also helping owners better understand the range of rent being charged for similar properties in an area.

AI marketing in spotlight at chamber lunch

Gosford Erina Business Chamber is inviting the business community to learn more about the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing strategies.

complexities of the AI revolution. He excels in identifying critical challenges within organisations and crafting customised AI solutions that are both effective and efficient.

Leading expert in AI-driven marketing Sean Chevall will share insights on how to effectively integrate artificial intelligence into a marketing plan at what promises to be an engaging and proactive networking lunch at The Sunken Monkey on Thursday, October 24.

Recognising the common challenge of knowing where to start with AI integration, he has developed the Are You AI Ready? review, a transparent, seven-step process designed to demystify AI adoption and highlight the most impactful areas for investment.

Rent Check compares up-todate weekly rents by NSW postcode across metropolitan and regional locations using rental bond data, ensuring the tool provides a realistic indication of rent prices.

Rent Check uses the latest bond data to provide a more accurate and comprehensive breakdown of market prices. This transparency helps renters better understand the market to make more informed decisions, while owners can set competitive, fair rents to attract and retain tenants.

Users enter a postcode and answer questions about whether the home is a unit or house, how many bedrooms it has and the current rent, or price they are willing to pay for a property.

The result will give them the median market rental range for

The free-to-use tool complements the NSW Government’s commitments to modernising the state’s rental market and making it fairer, including by ending no-grounds evictions.

The website will also provide links to further advice and resources for renters, owners and other users on the NSW Fair Trading website.

Rent Check is available at www.nsw.gov.au/rent-check

Steadfast in his role to improve council finances

Newly elected Central Coast Councillor Jared Wright remains steadfast in his view that improving Council finances must be a critical priority for all councillors this term, reiterating his election commitment to focus on returning the Council to surplus.

“Both monetary and fiscal measures will be needed in the quest towards budget surplus and all councillors will need to make tough decisions this term to deliver the long-term needs of the region,” Cr Wright said.

“The Central Coast community is at an inflection point as we leave administration behind and look forward to a brighter future.

Cr Wright said he was passionate about investigating ways to reduce Council expenditure and better utilising existing assets, such as Central Coast Stadium, to draw in further revenue and improve the overall financial position.

“By repairing the debt, we can better fund the infrastructure, services and facilities that our community needs from local roads to sporting fields,” he said.

This interactive session will cover practical ways to harness AI for market analysis, customer segmentation, content creation and campaign optimisation.

Attendees will walk away with actionable tips that can be implemented immediately.

Chevall is the owner and AI for Business Growth consultant with Kinektion, guiding business owners, founders and executives through the

This approach not only clarifies the pathway forward but also ensures clients can embrace AI with confidence, clarity, and a strong human connection.

The lunch is on from 12pm to 2pm and bookings are essential.

The chamber’s 77th annual general meeting will follow at 2pm and attendance needs to be registered.

Peninsula networking breakfast

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce extends an invitation from the Brisbane Water Secondary College (Woy Woy Campus) in Edward St to a breakfast function prepared by Year 11 students to be held on Friday, October 25 at 7.45am.

support to our local students many of whom will be a part of our future business community,” he said.

“Please take the morning to show our young people support and join us on Friday, October 25.

“There are a number of opportunities that lie ahead to reduce our expenses but to also bring in more money and we must work with council staff to help make this happen.”

increases was one of the best ways Council could support them at this time.

Cr Wright acknowledged that local families were doing it tough with the cost of living and said that limiting further rate

“To do this, we need to improve our overarching financial platform both in the short term and as we pen our plans for the future,” he said.

“I look forward to working with Council staff and my fellow councillors to deliver on this objective.

“As a young person, I am passionate about ensuring that my generation and our children have access to the same opportunities as our parents and that starts with good governance and strong financial management.”

Chamber President Matthew Wales said this would be a great opportunity to engage with local students, to recognise the young men and women who are moving on to further studies, training and careers with a spotlight on VET hospitality students who will cater for the event.

“We are very excited to be invited to participate and show

“College Principal Marisha Blanco has conveyed how excited the students are to be hosting a Chamber Network Breakfast.”

The event is free of charge.

To confirm attendance, contact Chamber President Matthew Wales at matthew@ walesassociates.com.au or the Chamber Secretary Katie Smith at katie@katiesmithsolicitor. com.au

Property Council keen to see improvement in planning processes

The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the return of a democratically elected Central Coast Council, with Lawrie McKinna as Mayor and Doug Eaton as Deputy Mayor, after four years of administration.

Property Council NSW Hunter and Central Coast Regional Director, Amy De Lore, said she looked forward to working with the new leadership to tackle key challenges around planning and development

across the region.

“The election of the new Council marks a pivotal moment for the Central Coast, with a clear need to accelerate housing and job creation to meet growing demand,” she said.

“As former mayors of Gosford and Wyong councils respectively, Crs McKinna and Eaton should be aware of the pressing need to address longstanding delays in the planning system and work more collaboratively with industry.

“The Central Coast will see significant population growth over the next two decades, and unlocking land for housing and industrial development will be crucial to delivering the homes and jobs the region needs.”

De Lore said that while the region offered enormous investment potential, it continued to face challenges such as land constraints, infrastructure access, and complex topography, all of which had hindered essential development projects.

“Planning on the Coast has been a roadblock for years. The new Council has a chance to improve the efficiency of planning processes and work with industry to drive investment,” she said.

“Faster planning approvals, better communication with applicants, a more strategic approach to land use, and improvements in transport connections are all critical to the Central Coast’s future success.

“The Central Coast has the

potential to become a thriving hub for both residents and businesses. By prioritising the right policies, we can stimulate growth, reduce commute times, and deliver more housing options.

“The Property Council looks forward to working closely with the new Mayor and with Council to help them navigate these challenges and realise the region’s full potential,” De Lore said.

Cr Jared Wright

Amy De Lore

Dr Gordon Reid and Labor are delivering

Air, food, water, and light are the staple elements your plants need and finding the correct amount of each will make the difference between life and death.

Getting it as close to ideal for each species as possible will make the difference between plants that are living and those that are thriving.

While the first lot of variables can be experimented with over the course of a plant’s life, ‘light’ really needs to be determined before planting.

The amount of light a plant receives over the course of a day, week and year, once in the ground will be set depending on the position it sits in.

How do you figure this out?

With Sun Mapping.

This simple (and rather fun) exercise shows where the shadows will fall over your garden.

When purchasing plants, this information can be found on labels or by asking your friendly garden centre team.

A good gardening or the internet can also lead you to the answer for established plants if you think this might be the reason they are doing well.

Direct sun means there are no shadows falling on the plant at all.

Full sun means at least 6 hours of direct sun, part-shade is between 4 to 6 hours of

CHERALYN DARCEY’S

DOWN IN THE GARDEN

direct sunlight and shade will mean less than 4 hours of direct sun falling upon your plant.

These are all indications of what is required for your plant, and you need to get this right.

The problem some gardeners have over light requirements is that they either ignore the guidelines or they plant in a position that has the correct amount of sun on planting day but roll forward a few hours, days or months and it’s a different story.

The main way to get this information for your garden is to ‘follow the sun’!

At least in your own backyard.

A Simple Sun Map

By creating a record of the shadowed areas throughout the day you can determine the classification of each area.

Whether it is sunny, partshade or shady.

Fill

You don’t need to even draw to scale for your Sun Map to work.

You will need: a sheet of paper (A4 or larger), 3 sheets of tracing paper the same size (or baking paper cut to size), a black marker and coloured pencils.

Onto a piece of paper draw out the outline of your garden with the black marker as if you were hovering in the sky directly above it.

Include the structures in and around it that will obviously

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throw some shade.

In a nice way!

Three times spaced over the day, go out and take a photo of the shadows in your garden.

You may find this easier as you can then do your Sun Mapping indoors, but you can simply get out there and draw the shadows on site.

Dedicate a different sheet of tracing paper and a different coloured pencil for each of the times that you choose to do this and note on the tracing paper the time.

You can do this more often and have more sheets.

(Especially if you are looking for a nice long project with the kids!)

Place the tracing paper over your original plain paper map and roughly outline the shadows and then lightly colour them in.

Use a different piece of tracing paper for each time.

Once your day is complete, sandwich the tracing papers together and place over the original plain paper map.

This is your completed Sun Map for that day and to read it, you look at the overlaps.

If an area is completely free

GARDEN PLANNER

This week you can also plant the following: culinary herbs, beans, beetroot, capsicum, carrot, celery, , chicory, choko, cress, cucumber, eggplant, endive, leeks, lettuce, marrow, melons, mustard, okra, spring onions, parsnip, pumpkin, radish, raspberry, rubarb, rosella, salsify, silverbeet, squashes, sweet corn, sweet potato (shoots), tomato, zucchini, ageratum, alyssum, amaranths, aster, California poppy, coleus, cosmos, carnation, dianthus, everlasting daisy, gazania, gerbera, gypsophila, impatiens, marigold, nasturtium, petunias, phlox, portulaca, salvia, snapdragon, sunflowers, torenia, verbena, vinca, zinnia

of shade all day, or has one shaded map layered upon it, then it is sunny.

An area that has two shaded sheets upon it can be determined to be part shade.

If the area has three to four shady sheets lying over it, then it is shady.

This equation is for three recordings of shade so you want to do more times through the day, I’m sure you will be able to determine what looks like shady, part shade and sunny.

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

Plantings also grow and if you have deciduous trees in or around your garden then they will also change the shade that is cast upon your map.

You will need to include their shade patterns.

All these things can be factored into your map and any map is better than no map.

Sun Mapping through the Year

What about the rest of the year I hear you ask!

The sun does slowly move across our sky at ever changing angles as the year rolls on and days become shorter or longer.

This will naturally change the length and hence the areas of

shadows in your garden.

What was once a sunny position may turn out to be part-shade in winter for example.

To help, there are a few different ways to create your Sun Map for different times of the year.

Online there are these free tools: sollimus.com; suncal. net; findmyshadow.com

Like most things in life, there is an app for Sun Mapping, a few actually.

The one I use in my gardening design adventures is the paid version of ‘Sun Seeker’.

You can stand at any spot of your garden and see the sun’s path for any given time.

There are a few free versions of similar sun path apps, and ‘Find my Shadow’ also has an app that is only $2.99.

There are also a few physical tools available that can help you determine the amount of light an area receives.

The first are garden light meters, aka sunlight calculators.

These just tell you how much light falls upon them and that’s not helpful over any area bigger than the device itself.

The only tool I have personally found that would be of benefit is the ‘Solar Pathfinder’ but unless you are a professional builder or landscaper it really is an unnecessary expense.

cheralyn

cheralyn.darcey

Cheralyn and Wayne host the Gardening Gang every Saturday 8-10am on Coastfm963

Health & Education Humidifier for Wyong hospital to help infants and children

The Humpty Dumpty Foundation and AVJennings are making a difference for baby and child patients at Wyong Hospital with the donation of an AIRVO 3 Humidifier valued at $8,820.

Humidification is important for babies and children suffering from respiratory problems, such as bronchitis, pneumonia and cystic fibrosis.

Humidified air and oxygen help them breathe restfully with the right level of oxygen and clears the chest for ongoing treatment and recovery.

AVJennings CEO Phil Kearns said he was proud of the team’s fundraising efforts which enabled donation of the lifesaving equipment for children at Wyong Hospital.

“It’s especially meaningful to be able to support the local hospital and communities in which we operate,” he said.

Humpty Dumpty Foundation CEO and Managing Director, Claire Reaney commended the partnership with AVJennings.

“Not only is this equipment state of the art and fit for purpose but it will help to continue ensuring that the most positive health outcomes

are achieved for children in Wyong and the surrounding community,” she said.

For more than 30 years, the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and its supporters have provided lifesaving medical equipment and healthcare initiatives for sick babies and children in about 500 hospitals and health services across Australia.

To date, Humpty Dumpty has raised almost $100M, provided thousands of pieces of medical equipment and funded many healthcare initiatives and services for paediatric wards, neonatal units, and maternity

and emergency departments across the country.

In NSW alone, this equates to more than 4,200 pieces of medical equipment worth about $39M to 94 per cent of public hospitals and health services across the state.

The Humpty Dumpty Foundation is the largest charitable supplier of children’s medical equipment and health initiatives behind state and territory governments.

Two-thirds of all funds raised by Humpty Dumpty Foundation and its supporters go to rural and remote communities.

• Divorces

• De facto

• Children's Issues

• Property

• Binding Financial Agreements

& ESTATES • Probate, Wills & Disputes • Power of Attorney • Enduring Guardianship CONVEYANCING

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business • Leasing • Retirement Villages

• Criminal Law • AVO Matters • Traffic Matters • Drink Driving

The donated Airvo 3 Humidifier

From left: Phil Kearns (AV Jennings), Sara Lewis, Layla Creamer (ED nurse educator), David Tripoussis (AV Jennings), Steven Johnstone (AV Jennings), Sindy Viney (ED nurse manager), Nicholas Spooner, Jing Pan (AV Jennings), Emma Bond, Peter Williams (Wyong Hospital general manager) with the humidifier

Day for Mates in Action at Doyalson

Men from across the Central Coast will come together on Saturday, November 2 for Mates in Action, a groundbreaking day designed to foster connection, build resilience, and support men’s mental health.

Importantly, the event will unite organisations working in the men’s space to share resources and knowledge.

Hosted by Iris Foundation in partnership with Doylo Lifestyle Group, Mates in Action plays a vital role in offering men the opportunity to connect with others, share their stories, and build resilience together.

Iris Foundation Executive Officer Sue Liptrott said this initiative, being driven by their Men’s Mental Health Advisory Committee, was about fostering mateship and resilience.

“The importance of men connecting, talking, and supporting each other cannot be overstated,” she said.

“Support provided by the

Doylo Lifestyle Group has made it possible to create an impactful day that offers more than just words.

“The combination of inspiring speakers, practical strategies to improve wellbeing, teaming up to test physical endurance on the Raw Challenge obstacle course, and a networking

barbecue, is designed to create a full-body and mind experience that stays with participants long after the event,” Liptrott said.

This year the Doylo Lifestyle Group is celebrating 60 years in the community.

“What better way to promote community life and spirit,

partnering with the Iris Foundation to host their wonderful new initiative Mates in Action,” Scott Purcell from the Doylo said.

“The Iris Foundation is a leader in mental health resilience programs and with Men’s mental health being very real and critical in our

community, this event is an opportunity to connect, raise awareness and support local men in a purposeful way,” he said.

Mates in Action is open to men of all ages (18-80), and with tickets priced at just $45 per person, this is an unmissable opportunity to be part of something special.

The event will be held between 9am and 3pm on Saturday, November 2 at Doylo and Raw Challenge, Doyalson. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged at: www.stickytickets.com. au/43NG4

For more information: irisfoundation.org.au or contact Sue Liptrott 0480 028609

The Iris Foundation is a Central Coast-based charity committed to promoting mental health and resilience in the community. Through initiatives like Mates in Action, the foundation strives to build stronger,healthier communities by fostering connection and wellbeing.

Reminder about free breast screen every two years

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, women aged 50-74 from Central Coast Local Health District are being urged to book in a free mammogram, with 50.4 per cent of women in the region overdue for their two-yearly breast cancer screening.

Meredith Kay, Director of BreastScreen NSW, Northern Sydney Central Coast Screening Assessment Service, said with more than 300 local women expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, now was the time to book in a free, life-saving breast screen.

encourages word of mouth and social media promotion among women to their friends, family and colleagues about the need to have regular mammograms.

NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of the Cancer Institute NSW, Professor Tracey O’Brien said if detected in its earliest stages, a woman’s five-year breast cancer survival rate was 98 per cent. This drops to 43.9 per cent if detected later, when it has spread to other organs.

to support women and encourage them to book in a life-saving breast screen,”

Professor O’Brien said.

“Early detection not only significantly increases a person’s chance of survival it can also greatly reduce the need for invasive treatment like a mastectomy.”

One-day workshop offers skills to help those in crisis

Lifeline is running a oneday workshop at Avoca Beach Surf Club looking at basic skills for dealing with people in crisis.

Accidental Counsellor Foundations will be on October 21 between 9am and 4.30pm. In community services work, people can often be the first point of contact for someone in crisis needing immediate assistance.

“For women aged 50-74, a breast screen every two years is still the best way to detect breast cancer early – before it can be seen or felt,” Kay said.

“If you’re aged 50-74, make breast screening a priority. It only takes 20 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed.”

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BreastScreen NSW is also encouraging women to Be A Friend, Tell A Friend about the importance of having regular mammograms.

Be A Friend, Tell A Friend

“More than 6,500 women in NSW are expected to receive a breast cancer diagnosis this year, and 1,000 women are expected to lose their lives to the disease in 2024, so we need to do everything we can

For more information and to make an appointment at a local BreastScreen NSW clinic or mobile van, call 13 20 50 or book online at www. breastscreen.nsw.gov.au

The mobile screening van visits various locations across the Central Coast including Bateau Bay, Erina, Woy Woy and Charmhaven.

Lucky Starr tours cancer institute in Gosford

Renowned Australian performer Lucky Starr has been honoured with a special presentation for his years of contribution to cancer patients.

Through his support of the Crestani Cancer Foundation’s fundraising, there has been significant advancements in education for students and medical professionals on the Central Coast.

Starr toured the University of Newcastle Research Institute in Gosford, which houses state-of-the-art learning areas including simulation wards and laboratories.

He met researchers who were pleased to discuss their current work.

With financial assistance from Bendigo Bank and Gosford Masonic Centre, the Crestani Cancer Foundation is funding research into pancreatic cancer by the Central Coast Cancer Research Group of the University of Newcastle/ Gosford.

Led by Dr Jude Weidenhofer and Professor Chris Scarlett, the research group is focusing on discovering new treatments for pancreatic cancer, “the most challenging of all cancers,” Dr Weidenhofer said. Also assisting the researchers

in their endeavours are three students currently doing their PhD, masters, or undergraduate studies.

This essential work is only

possible if funding is made available to “maintain the patient sample collection, purchase consumables and reagents required for the

work,” Dr Weidenhofer said.

“Funding is key to having skilled personnel to accelerate the research,” she said.

Simultaneously, the Cancer Research Group continues with its investigations into breast and prostate cancers.

These areas of research have also received significant financial support from the Crestani Cancer Foundation.

“We are extremely grateful to the Gosford Masonic Centre and the Bendigo Bank for making it financially possible for us to collaborate with the University Research Team,” Yvonne Crestani said.

Even without a formal qualification in counselling, this workshop provides the basic skills and tools to be able to step into the shoes of an accidental counsellor momentarily, to respond appropriately and effectively to people in crisis or distress when there may not be a professional immediately available.

Participants will leave with a toolbox of basic counselling techniques, frameworks on how to engage with a person needing support and how to provide the necessary support, and a greater understanding of how to communicate more effectively during a challenging time in someone’s life.

During the one-day workshop, participants are asked to reflect on personal values and beliefs and how they influence interactions with others. How people respond will create an impact on the person in need of support or assistance and often determine the outcome of those interactions.

Cost is $325. Inquiries to Kristina.lawrence@lifeline. org.au

Book a mammogram with the Breastscreen mobile van or at a clinic

Dr Jude Weidenhofer talks about cancer research with Lucky Starr

Iris Foundation volunteer Dan Westwood with Iris staff member Nikki Szabo

Lifeline will be running a one-day workshop at Avoca Beach Surf Club

Stories celebrate 50 years of Open Foundation at Ourimbah

The heartwarming stories of 50 Open Foundation graduates are now on display in a public exhibition at the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus to celebrate 50 years of the Open Foundation program.

The University of Newcastle is home to Australia’s oldest and largest ‘university ready’ pathway program, Open Foundation, which has seen 70,000 students undertake courses to gain entry to university.

The exhibition, 50 Years Fifty Stories, marks the milestone through a display of 50 photographs and stories of current and former students who are representative of the impact Open Foundation has had on individuals and the community.

The university’s Pathways and Academic Learning

Support Centre director

Associate Professor Anna Bennett said the stories showed the impact higher education could have on communities and people’s lives.

“The exhibition saw us interview and photograph over 50 graduates from diverse backgrounds, with each story highlighting the triumphs, challenges and achievements of our Open Foundation graduates,” she said.

“There are stories like Cav, who moved to Australia as a refugee and is now studying medicine, to Isabel who struggled in school and is now curating her own art exhibition.

“Every person who has gone through our pathway programs has taken a unique journey to achieve success and each story is equally heartwarming.”

One of the students showcased in the exhibition is Georgia Young, who came

through the Open Foundation program in 2017 and is now studying a degree in Social Work (Honours) and working at the Ourimbah campus.

Extremely passionate about the university’s enabling programs, she attributes the Open Foundation program for allowing her to realise she was able to and deserved to be in a university environment.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky said that what began with just 80 students had grown to see the university become the largest provider of alternative entry programs in Australia.

“I firmly believe in the transformative power of education,” he said.

“Our Open Foundation program was created to enable more people in our community to attend university and I am so proud to be celebrating 50 years this year.

“Everyone can thrive in the right environment and with the government’s goal for 80 per cent of Australians to have a tertiary qualification by 2050, programs like our Open Foundation pathways have never been more important.

“Nearly one in five of our undergraduate students has previously completed an enabling program at our university – that’s a massive impact for the individuals, their families and our whole communities and we are committed to continuing to provide more Australians with access to education.

The exhibition is open until December 16 at the Ourimbah Campus Library.

To read more about the pathway programs visit www. newcastle.edu.au/study/ pathways

Jamie recognised for excellence in national childcare awards

Gosford educator Jamie Thomas has been rewarded for her passion and excellence in early childhood education and care in the 2024 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.

In their 13th year, the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards highlight the benefits of family day care, utilised by 52,700 families across Australia.

The nationwide awards program is the only one of its

kind for family day care educators, who together form one of the largest national networks of women in small business, turning their passion and dedication for childcare into a rewarding career.

Thomas from Coastwide Family Day Care was named as the Gosford and Central Coast Educator Winner in the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.

“I am so incredibly thrilled and so proud of myself,” Thomas said.

She has been in the industry for 10 years and opened her own family day care service a year ago.

“It is so easy to doubt yourself, self-doubt is something I’ve been actively trying to overcome since beginning my family day care journey only last September.

“To receive this validation from my scheme and Family

Day Care Awards is just amazing.

“I am truly so proud of myself and all the other educators both winners and nominees, it’s just a great feeling to be recognised and to represent my fellow educators.

“Having two preschool aged children myself, I know how devastating it can be for some to be apart from their little ones, let alone have a not-sogreat early years’ experience with their alternative care on top of that.

“By having my own little service, I have been able to be the educator that I’d love my own children to have.

“I have been able to create an atmosphere that the children and parents step into and immediately feel safe and secure in my service, and what better feeling than that?”

Family Day Care Australia

Chief Executive Officer Andrew Paterson spoke to Thomas’ achievement of being named a Regional Award Winner.

“The incredible work and dedication to creating a unique and nurturing early learning environment for children by educators like Jamie is why family day care is the natural choice in early childhood education and care for so many Australian families,” he said.

“The Excellence in Family Day Care Awards showcase the contribution that family day care educators make to more than

74,000 children across the country each day.

“This year more than 5,000 nominations were placed, which is testament to the vital role that family day care educators play in the lives of families all across Australia and the unique benefits family day care offers.” Thomas is now in the running to be named as a national finalist for the 2024 Educator of the Year Award to be announced on November 23.

Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen for the school year commencing on Friday 4th February 2025 for a term of 3 years with an option to renew for 2 years. Annual school enrolments will be approximately 330. General enquiries and requests for a Tender Information Package should be referred to:

Amanda Malone

School Administration Manager 02 4325 2178 or amanda.malone1@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders must be sent electronically and noted in the subject line “Commercial in Confidence - School Canteen Tender” and sent to: Nicole Burgess gosfordest-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Tenders close at 3pm on 18th November 2024

All employees must hold a

with

Jamie Thomas with two of the children in her Family Day Care Service, Frederick and Kobe

Open Foundation graduate Georgia Young

Photo: Billy Callaghan

Mariners aim for historic A-League three-peat

Only three teams in A-League men’s history have managed back-toback championships: Brisbane Roar (2011 and 2012), Sydney FC (2019 and 2020), and Central Coast Mariners (2023 and 2024).

However, no team has ever achieved the elusive threepeat.

This season, the Mariners could be the first to make history as they chase a third consecutive grand final victory in the A-League’s 20th season.

Fresh off a triumphant grand final win at Industree Group Stadium in front of 21,379 fans, the Mariners are heading into the new season with significant changes to their squad.

Manager Mark Jackson, who guided the team to glory last season, will be looking to replicate that success despite a revamped line-up.

Gone are some of last year’s key players: Max Balard (NAC Breda), Jacob Farrell (Portsmouth FC), Dan Hall (Auckland FC), and Johnny

Warren Medal winner Josh Nisbet (Ross County).

Captain Danny Vukovic has also retired, leaving a leadership gap in the squad.

To bolster the team, the Mariners have made some notable off-season signings.

Trent Sainsbury, a former Mariners championship winner returns from Al-Wakrah SC in Qatar to take up the captain’s armband.

However, Sainsbury has been sidelined with an upper-body

injury that will keep him out for a significant portion of the season.

Other new recruits include goalkeeper Adam Pavlesic (Sydney FC), defender Lucas Mauragis (Newcastle Jets), midfielder Alfie McCalmont (Carlisle United), and attackers Vitor Feijao (Caxias-RS, Brazil) and Sabit Ngor (Heidelberg United).

This season is crucial, not just for their A-League ambitions but also as they compete in the Asian Champions League Elite,

Asia’s premier football competition.

Mark Jackson will need to integrate his new signings quickly to avoid a repeat of last season’s slow start, where the Mariners lost their first four games.

Key figures to watch:

Leader: Mark Jackson (Manager) – after last year’s heroics, the pressure is on Jackson to bring the new-look team up to speed. Another sluggish start like last season

could make it difficult to recover in a more competitive field.

Best Player: Mikael Doka –the dynamic forward played a pivotal role in the Mariners’ charge to the Premier’s Plate and AFC Cup success. With Josh Nisbet gone, Doka’s goals and creativity will be even more vital.

Rising Star: Miguel Di Pizio –last season’s grand final saw Di Pizio become the youngest goalscorer in A-League grand final history. At just 18, he is

expected to step up as a fulltime starter. His ability to handle the physical and mental demands of regular football will be key to the Mariners’ success.

Under Pressure: the strikers – Ryan Edmondson and Alou Kuol will need to improve on their nine-goal tally from last season. One of them must emerge as a reliable goalscorer if the Mariners are to contend for the title again.

A Thing to Watch: goalkeeping dilemma – with the retirement of Danny Vukovic, the Mariners have placed their faith in youth with Adam Pavlesic and Jack Warshawsky vying for the number one jersey. It remains to be seen how quickly Jackson will settle on his first-choice goalkeeper.

As the Central Coast Mariners celebrate their 20th season, Coast FM 963 will once again provide comprehensive coverage of every competitive match, led by the A-TeamTrent Dickeson, Luke Byrne, Daniel McCamley, and Katrina Ashleigh.

Wyong Lakes AFL players shine in Albury tournament

Two junior players from the under-13s Wyong Lakes AFL Club were recently selected to represent the Sydney Swans academy in the Super24 tournament in Albury where the Swans took on the GWS Giants.

Harry Cramer, who has made the transition from playing with the Gaelic Athletic Association in Ireland, showed a temperament beyond his years.

The centre half forward’s accurate kicking saw him scoring two goals in the tournament.

The Mackillop Catholic College student also finished third best and fairest this year and last year in the AFL Hunter Central Coast competition.

Azalia Arangio, a St Peter’s Catholic College student who also plays forward, revealed her amazing attitude and ability to believe in herself, making darting runs with an ability to dominate the forward line.

Wyong Lakes AFL, also known as the Magpies,was established in 1975, calling the Don Small Oval at Tacoma its home ground for more than 40 years.

The club fields teams in junior and senior competitions, including women’s and youth girls.

The junior teams play in the Central Coast Junior AFL competition which is part of Hunter Coast AFL for ages 5-17 years.

The two men’s and one women’s teams play in the

Black Diamond AFL (BDAFL) for 17 years and up.

The BDAFL is a Hunter and Central Coast based competition, which includes teams from the Central Coast, Greater Newcastle area and the Hunter Valley and as far afield as Muswellbrook.

Wyong Lakes prides itself on being a community focused club, helping to grow and positively influence the local community for the better. In recent years, the club has helped raise money for the Wyong Hospital cancer care unit and Beyond Blue.

For those looking to get involved and become the next Lance Franklin or Isaac Heaney, look for Wyong Lakes AFL on Facebook or Instagram.

Harry Cramer

Azalia Arangio

Luke Byrne

The Central Coast Mariners men are the 2023/24 Premiers

Photo: CCM Media

Northern Valleys triumph again at NSW netball Masters

The Northern Valleys netball team has solidified their dominance in the over-40s division, clinching the title at the NSW Netball Social Masters competition for the second consecutive year.

Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association hosted 55 teams from across the state for the annual NSW Netball Social Masters competition last weekend.

Northern Valleys continued their unbeatable run, remaining undefeated throughout the tournament and claiming backto-back championships.

“We’ve done it again!” said an

elated Carolyn Ormsby, the Northern Valleys team captain.

“I’m so proud of this team of legends. Winning back-to-back titles and staying undefeated is no small feat, everyone played so well.

“Our defence was formidable, we only conceded an average of seven goals per game.

“Well done, girls - See you next year.”

With their undefeated streak intact and another championship to their name, the Northern Valleys have firmly established themselves as the team to beat in the over-40s division, and they show no signs of slowing down.

Popularity of indoor bowls on a roll

Members of Central Coast Leagues Indoor Bowling Club (CCLIBC) recently competed in the Australian National Indoor Bowling Championships held in South Australia.

Recently celebrating its 70th anniversary, 12 players formed part of the 56 strong NSW team with two of the CCLIBC players, Anthony and Annika van Lierop, winning bronze medals in the

men’s and women’s singles respectively.

Club spokesperson Frank Wiffen said that while indoor bowls was often seen as the “poor relation” of lawn bowls in Australia, it had a lot to offer and was becoming increasingly popular.

“The club is open to everyone regardless of age, gender and ability,” he said.

“We have players under 10

years and over 90.

“There is a great social atmosphere, and everyone has a lot of fun.

“New members are always welcome, and we can be contacted via Central Coast Leagues Club.”

Regular bowling sessions take place weekly on Monday mornings and Wednesday evenings.

Central Coast Leagues Indoor Bowls Club members

From left, back row: Coach, Danielle Ryan, Lisa Leidich, Lisa Cahill, Judy Walter, Angela Coskerie, Prue Lamonte, Julia Brown; Front row: Vicki Stedman, Vanessa Bird, Carolyn Ormsby, Danni Valentine

Nippers back on the beach again for another season

Central Coast beaches are a little brighter as the Nippers season officially splashed back onto the sand last weekend.

On Sunday, thousands of kids from across the Coast threw on their signature pink rash vests and dived into another Summer of surf safety and fun, with Newcastle Permanent proudly supporting the program for another year.

Open to children aged five to 14, the Nippers program is designed to teach essential skills like CPR, rescue techniques, and surf awareness while giving participants the chance to enjoy fun, beachbased activities in a safe environment.

Last season, more than 3,000 young surf lovers joined the Central Coast program, and this season is set to be just as exciting as the last.

CEO of Surf Life Saving Central Coast, Michael Hyslop, said the program was designed to build both surf skills and confidence.

“We’ve seen so many children benefit from the Nippers program, gaining not only surf lifesaving skills but also a love for the beach,” he said.

“It’s rewarding to know that these kids are learning how to keep themselves and others safe in the surf.

Each season, the impact of the program extends well beyond the beach, shaping

confident, responsible young people.

“With the continued support of Newcastle Permanent – over 20 years strong – we’re able to

offer this valuable program to more families across the region.”

Nippers learn surf safety and a love of the beach

Michelle Densem, Branch Manager at Newcastle Permanent Morisset, said the organisation was thrilled to be supporting Nippers again.

“Our longstanding support of Nippers is something we take great pride in at Newcastle Permanent,” she said.

“Helping to get those iconic pink rashies on the sand means we’re investing in both the safety and wellbeing of our coastal communities.

“The kids are learning critical life-saving skills, all while having fun, and we’re proud to be a part of that journey”. Nippers is held across 15 clubs on the Central Coast, from Umina Beach to The Lakes and registrations are still open. For more information, visit slscc.com.au

Nippers learn surf safety and a love of the beach