Coast Community News #469

Get set for Summer fun as 2024 ends

As we get set for a new year, all at Coast Community News wish our readers a wonderful festive season and a joyous year to come.

Look out for our special Summer edition to be delivered to regular collection points from December 27.

Our first issue of 2025 will hit the streets on January 16.

Sunrise at Catherine Hill Bay

Maternity services in crisis

Fears are mounting that Central Coast women could be forced to travel out of the region to access maternity services with Gosford Hospital’s obstetrics and gynaecology services in crisis.

Just a month after Gosford Private Hospital announced it would close its maternity services in March next year, Gosford Hospital executives told the Staff Medical Council that its obstetrics and gynaecology services were at risk of going on bypass.

Women are to be notified if they cannot be supported at Gosford Hospital, the second-busiest maternity hospital outside Sydney.

Can you help us

Member for Terrigal and Shadow Minister for the Central Coast Adam Crouch is asking for answers from the State Government.

“A bypass of the only maternity service in the region would result in hundreds of expectant mothers needing to be diverted to hospitals in either Sydney or Newcastle,” he said.

“It was only a month ago that the Minns Labor Government assured our region that obstetric and gynaecological services would not be negatively impacted by the imminent closure of Gosford Private’s facilities.

Gosford Hospital is facing a crisis in its maternity services

Photo: Jim Picot Photography

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The Spirit of Christmas on the Coast

As the year draws to a close and the festive season envelops us, we are reminded that Christmas is not just a celebration marked by tradition or religion.

It is, at its heart, a time for gratitude, reflection and the recognition of the remarkable spirit that exists within our Central Coast community.

Across the Coast, the spirit of Christmas shines brightly in the actions of so many.

thread in the fabric of our community.

We see it in the carers and volunteers who give their time and energy to those in need.

Whether tending to the vulnerable, assisting in emergencies or supporting local causes, their selflessness and compassion are a beacon of hope for us all.

gifts that cannot be bought or wrapped.

Our pristine beaches, lush bushland and thriving wildlife are a daily reminder of the beauty we are privileged to enjoy on the Central Coast.

For this, we owe a debt of gratitude to the countless custodians, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, who work to preserve this precious environment for future generations.

are there to help and support you by telephone or in person. Likewise, if you are in a position to donate a little money or time reach out.

So, whether you find joy in the Christmas story, the warmth of a family gathering, or simply the slower pace of the summer holidays, take a moment to acknowledge the people and blessings around you.

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.

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).

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

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LISTEN IN

Tune into our local news:

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

It is embodied in the tireless work of individuals and organisations who, with little fanfare, go above and beyond to make this a better place for all.

We see it in our small business owners who open their doors day after day, driven not just by commerce but by a deep belief in the services they provide and the connections they nurture. They are the lifeblood of our local economy and an integral

We see it in the teachers, healthcare workers, first responders and essential service providers who keep the wheels turning, often sacrificing their own holiday time to ensure our safety and wellbeing.

They remind us that the true essence of Christmas is not about receiving, but giving, even when it comes at great personal cost.

And beyond the human touch, we are surrounded by

Christmas invites us to pause and give thanks, not just for the festive trimmings, but for the enduring goodwill, fairness and decency that define us as a community.

It is a time to celebrate the best of what unites us, across faiths and beliefs, across generations and cultures, both ancient and new.

If you find yourself disconnected this Christmas period, be sure to reach out to one of our local charities; they

Let us carry that spirit of gratitude and generosity into the new year, with a renewed commitment to care for one another and our beautiful corner of the world.

To all the Coast Community News readers, we say thank you for being part of this vibrant, resilient and remarkable community.

Wishing you all a joyous Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous new year from the CCN Team.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Hi Tide joins Fishing Fellas on Coast FM

For 20 years, Coast FM 963’s Fishing Fellas has been the go-to destination of all things angling on the Central Coast.

Now, resident fisherman and presenter Mal Poole will be joined by what’s said to be the longest running fishing and boating radio show in the world.

After more than three decades on air, the Hi Tide Fishing and Boating show, presented by Kieran Reekie, Alan Blake and Grant Boyden, will join Mal Poole and Coast FM 963 for the Fishing Fellas at Hi Tide.

“High tide is the peak of catching fish,” Poole said.

“And certainly, the Hi Tide team have been the peak of communication around recreational and commercial fishing for many, many years.

“I think that just brings the flavour to the Fishing Fellas.

“They’ll add a depth of extra knowledge around boating and fishing; those guys just kill it.”

Kieran Reekie said Poole is much respected in the world of fishing.

“That comes from being at the boat shows,” he said.

“People take on board what he has to say.

“He’s good to learn from.

“If you really want to understand what’s happening on the Central Coast, you listen to his advice.

“Mal is hands-on and that’s what you’ve got to appreciate about his information.”

David Golding from Central Coast Marine Rescue said the new show format would build a much wider audience, attracting people to the Central Coast from other areas of NSW and around Australia.

“It’s going to enhance the issue of safety on boating,” he said.

“Partnering with Coast FM and other media outlets is probably one of the most important things we’ve ever done.

“For example, 25 years ago we used to have 90 per cent of people logging on.

“Today it’s probably less than 10 per cent.

“So to get the message across not just from Marine Rescue but through the Fishing Fellas and Hi Tide, is just so important for people’s boating safety.”

Reekie said Hi Tide chose Coast FM as their new home because the Central Coast is the home of fishing.

“I think it’s a great spot; great spot to grow up,” he said.

“I think it’s a wonderful place for a family to grow up and learn about the lifestyle that is offered to you in this country.

“The Central Coast is as good as any place offered to you in this country.”

The new show, which will air from 6-8am Saturday mornings on Coast FM, promises to entertain and inform, while embracing the coastal lifestyle.

“We have a renewable resource called fish,” Poole said.

“We need to look after the habitat where those fish live.

“That’s paramount.

“Humans do too many things to our waterways, which can create problems in terms of the next season of fish.

“The best thing I think we can do is share our knowledge with the community and hopefully they will think twice about their litter. rather than just throwing rubbish in the water.

“I mean, that’s the thing: we need to be on top of our environmental stewardship.”

The Fishing Fellas at Hi Tide launches on January 11 on Coast FM 963.

Fishing expert Alan Blake

From left: Mal Poole, David Golding and Kieran Reekie

Council urged to take part in e-scooter trial

Long Jetty businessman

Peter Speir believes speeding e-scooters using the Tuggerah Lakes shared pathway are a “disaster waiting to happen”.

Currently it is illegal to ride an e-scooter anywhere in NSW unless it’s in one of the six trial areas being run by Transport for NSW in conjunction with councils, or on private property. With the final stage of the Magenta shared pathway now open, pedestrians and cyclists can ride/walk from The Entrance to Toukley as part of the Tuggerah Lakes loop under Central Coast Council’s Bike Plan.

As director of Thriv-E Sales and Hire Service Centre, Speir has applied to Central Coast Council to consider entering an e-scooter trial in conjunction with his business and Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Transport for NSW has been enabling local councils to run e-scooter trials across NSW since 2022.

Councils and local road authorities need to apply to run a trial, and TfNSW needs to declare selected roads or areas as an Electric Scooter Use Area under NSW road rules before a trial can start.

This makes it legal for people to ride shared e-scooters in these designated trial areas.

While Speir admits to having a vested interest, he said he was genuinely concerned a pathway user would be seriously hurt or worse by a speeding e-scooter, and that the Central Coast was missing

out on tourism opportunities.

His company has invested in Pathway Smart Safety Light (PSSL) technology, a system that allows real-time e-scooter monitoring of pathway use, controls speed and deters dangerous behaviour.

“This software is designed to enhance safety on shared pathways and the monitoring is a requirement of the e-scooter trial pack,” he said.

“It is designed to help create a safe environment that benefits everyone in the community in the long run.

“E-scooters can reach speeds of over 50km an hour and noone is monitoring them.

“The police can’t do anything about it.

“No-one is regulating their

use, and I really do believe it’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or worse.”

The Council has told Speir it had reviewed the opportunity to be involved in a trial but was unsuccessful in getting funding to carry out supporting road safety reviews and other requirements to participate.

“We cannot believe we have been shut down by our local Council to participate in a NSW Transport e-scooter trial pack, where we would be required to monitor shared e-scooters within a dedicated trial zone,” Speir said.

“It’s such a cool pathway, the Council has spent all that money building it but is not prepared to open it up to everyone.

“I firmly believe that the absence of e-scooters on shared pathways is akin to saying “no boarders” at a ski resort – it overlooks a potential market and the economic growth it can bring.”

He said the RMS-approved Pathway Smart Safety Light technology would allow the business to monitor and manage pathway use in real time, helping ensure a safe and responsible experience for all users.

“This solution will benefit all users of the pathway, regardless of e-scooter integration, especially given the current presence of illegal riders travelling at high speeds, often well over the 50km/h road limit,” he said.

“By implementing these measures, we can prevent dangerous behaviour and promote a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.”

Speir has been informed that Council is also waiting for a state-level regulatory framework before taking any action.

A Council spokesperson said Council reviewed the opportunity to be involved in a trial, which included submitting an expression of interest to participate in the original e-scooter trial, but was unsuccessful in attracting funding to carry out the trial, which also included undertaking supporting road safety reviews and other requirements to participate.

She said Council was always

Magenta pathway officially open

The highly anticipated Magenta Shared Pathway officially opened on Monday, December 16, with Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna and fellow councillors cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion.

The project was funded by Council through developer contributions and provides a safe and scenic route between The Entrance North and Toukley for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy.

Council Director Infrastructure Services Boris Bolgoff said the opening of the final stage of the 3.7km pathway was a significant milestone for the region.

“This pathway provides a vital link for active transport, connecting the popular town

centres of The Entrance and Toukley,” he said.

“It offers a safe and scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities, with stunning views of Wyrrabalong National Park and glimpses of Tuggerah Lake.

“It also completes a key missing link in the NSW Coastline Cycleway route which aims to provide a continuous cycling and walking route along the entire NSW coastline from Queensland to Victoria.

“The pathway features a mix of elevated and on-ground sections taking into account environmental considerations and accessibility.

“There are also viewing platforms, seating and a bicycle repair station located along the route, providing opportunities for users to pause and

appreciate the natural beauty of the area and carry out any emergency repairs.

“Whilst landscaping and planting has been undertaken, further planting will be undertaken in Autumn 2025

during a favourable season for planting success.

“The project aligns with Council’s commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable community by encouraging active transport

and promoting a healthy lifestyle.”

McKinna said he was honoured to cut the ribbon to signify the official opening of the pathway.

open to alternate transport modes and had been monitoring the trials being undertaken.

“Council was aware that the government was intending to develop new laws in relation to legalisation and use of e-scooters and would prefer to wait until such new laws are in place, rather than seek to undertake a new trial,” she said.

“Council has been receiving numerous complaints about e-scooter use, including safety aspects to both riders and other road and pedestrian traffic, and is looking forward to the release of the new laws to regulate e-scooter use in a safe manner.”

“The Magenta Shared Pathway is a significant investment by Council and a testament to Council’s dedication to enhancing our community’s quality of life,” he said.

“Designed with accessibility in mind, this pathway will benefit residents and attract visitors to our region.

“I encourage everyone to come out and experience this wonderful new pathway.

“Whether you’re a recreational cyclist, a runner or casual walker, it is available for all.” Council encourages all users to use designated access points (The Entrance, North Entrance,Toukley or designated carparks along the pathway).

For more information about the project, search ‘Magenta Shared Pathway’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

From left: Mayor Lawrie McKinna, Councillor Margot Castles, Councillor Rachel Stanton and Deputy Mayor Doug Eaton at the opening event.

Denice Barnes

Part of the Magenta shared pathway

One of the e-scooters Speir invested in which cannot legally be ridden

Christmas cards bring cheer to seniors

Central Coast schoolchildren are bringing Christmas joy to seniors this month as part of an intergenerational program designed to remedy festive isolation.

Home Instead is again teaming up with Meals on Wheels Australia to help deliver the cards to seniors around the

country – much like the man in the red suit does with his sleigh on Christmas eve – with the Central Coast among the stops.

Local school students are taking part in the initiative designed to combat loneliness and social isolation among seniors during the festive period, decorating 2,700 Christmas cards for older members of their community.

The cards are being distributed to seniors around the region, including patients in palliative care, rehabilitation and geriatric wards at Gosford Hospital, Woy Woy Hospital and Wyong Hospital.

They are also being handed out at Meals on Wheels

Christmas lunches, with local Scout Xavier Chapman hand delivering the cards to seniors

at lunches in Woy Woy and Tuggerah.

Home Instead Acting Chief Operating Officer Amanda Spencer said it was heartwarming to see the interactions between seniors and school children through the program, which is celebrating its 10th year.

“We know seniors in our

community are vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness, and that these risks tend to amplify at Christmas time,” she said.

“It’s incredibly important to make sure these individuals don’t feel like they’re forgotten – and a handwritten Christmas card can be a simple way to alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Council closures over Christmas period

“Having school students pen heartfelt messages in the cards helps promote intergenerational engagement, putting smiles on the faces of young and old.”

Meals on Wheels Australia Chair Paul Sadler said the organisation was incredibly proud to be part of the program.

Central Coast Council offices will be closed over the Christmas and New Year holiday period from Monday, December 23 to Friday, January 3, and reopen on Monday, January 6.

Council’s Administration Building at Wyong, customer service centres, Laycock Street Community Theatre, libraries and works depots will be closed over this period.

Upon return on Monday, January 6, Council’s customer service team will undertake a staff development and mandatory training day. Counters in the administration building in Wyong and the shopfront in Gosford will be closed to the public.

from close-of-business on Friday, December 20 and reopen to children on Tuesday, January 7. Woy Woy and Buttonderry Waste Management Facilities will be closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day and open other days.

Public toilet facilities will be open normal hours with regular cleaning services continuing.

The service desks at Woy Woy library and the visitor’s centre at The Entrance will also be closed to the public.

From page 1

“This news about the potential bypass of services reaffirms that the government is failing not only our local area health district, but young families right across our region.

“For the government to put additional pressures on expectant mothers to have to travel to Sydney or Newcastle to give birth is totally unacceptable.”

While the public health system is a state issue, Liberal candidate for Robertson in next year’s Federal election Lucy

Services will re-open on Tuesday, January 7.

An after-hours service is available on 4306 7900 to call in any urgent reports (such as water main breaks or sewer issues, and urgent road safety issues such as fallen trees over roads).

will be progressed from Tuesday, January 2.

Non-emergency enquiries, requests, reports or formal feedback can be submitted through the online customer service centre 24/7 and these

Many essential services will continue throughout the closure period.

Some of these include residential waste collection, water and sewer treatment,

lifeguard patrol of 15 beaches, animal care facilities, ranger services and a roster of staff available to respond to urgent issues that require immediate attention.

Early Childhood and Education and Care Centres will close

Maternity services in crisis

Wicks is also calling for answers.

“I’ve been out talking with women across the Central Coast, and a number of mumsto-be have told me that they are worried about the possibility of not being able to get the support they need at our local hospital when they give birth,” she said.

“Our community needs to be able to have access to birthing services locally, not in Sydney, and I’m calling on the Labor Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid to clearly tell us what his Government is going

to do to ensure that our community is not left without these services.”

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said he had strongly supported women’s access to healthcare since his election in 2022.

“I have spoken directly with my NSW State Government colleagues and conveyed the community’s concerns,” he said.

“I will also write to NSW Health Minister, Ryan Park, and formalise our community’s concerns in relation to

maternity services at Gosford Hospital.

“As a practising health professional, I will always stand up and advocate for access and equity in healthcare for our Central Coast community.”

A spokesperson for Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said Health Minister Ryan Park had advised that the Central Coast Local Health District was consulting with clinicians and RANZCOG (The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians

and Gynaecologists) on solutions to avoid a bypass of maternity services at Gosford Hospital.

The spokesperson said Harris had been advised that all steps were being taken to minimise any disruption of services, with plans in place to support women should any temporary changes be required.

“A comprehensive range of maternity services for Central Coast women, their babies and families is in place with capacity to support an anticipated increase in births at

Litter collection will continue at beaches, parks, reserves and playspaces and sportsgrounds along with the cleaning of Council’s outdoor electric barbecues.

Full details of closures are available on Council’s website, centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Follow Council’s Facebook or Twitter for community alerts or notices.

Gosford Hospital,” the spokesperson said.

“Gosford Hospital, like all maternity services in NSW is networked with other maternity services, ensuring women and their babies receive the safest care at the most appropriate facility.

“The Minister understands women will be contacted if there are any changes to their existing planned location of birth and should continue to present to Gosford Hospital unless otherwise advised.”

Terry Collins

Council chambers at Wyong

Laycock Street Community Theatre will be closed until January 6

Xavier Chapman presents cards to Pat Webb and Alice McGavghey

Mel Montgomery and Jason Millers from Meals On Wheels with Xavier Chapman and Home Instead’s Samantha Farham

Paula Nichols and Kathleen Cachia were happy to receive cards from Xavier Chapman

Coast Summer Safety

Summer on the Central Coast is a time to relax, recharge and create unforgettable memories. To help ensure your summer is safe and enjoyable, we’ve compiled essential safety tips covering a range of topics.

Beach Safety

• Always swim or surf at one of our 15 patrolled beaches (plus Budgewoi Beach during the summer holidays) or The Grant McBride Baths.

• Council lifeguards are on duty Monday to Friday and Surf Life Saving volunteers patrol on weekends and public holidays. Look out for Central Coast lifeguards in their new blue and white uniforms.

• No flags means no swimming. Always swim between the red and yellow flags and surf outside the black and white flags.

• If lifeguards can’t see you, they can’t save you.

• If you get into trouble, stay calm, float, raise your arm and yell for assistance.

• If you are unsure of conditions, ask the lifeguard in attendance.

• Read and obey the signs and directions from the lifeguard.

• Never run and dive into water, as the depth can change regularly.

• Supervise children at all times.

• Always ‘Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide’ to be sun safe.

Emergency preparedness

• Know your risk when you are at home or away on holiday.

• Develop an emergency plan for your family and discuss it with everyone.

• Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies.

• Get to know your neighbours and look out for each other.

• Stay informed about weather conditions and potential emergencies.

• Download these four apps: Hazards Near Me, Emergency Plus, Live Traffic NSW and BOM Weather.

Pet Safety

• Never leave your pets in hot cars.

• Provide plenty of fresh water and shade for your pets during hot weather.

• Avoid over exercising pets in hot weather.

• If the path or sand is too hot for your bare feet, remember your pets’ paws are just as sensitive.

• Ensure your pets scared of storms or fireworks are kept inside and comforted during these events.

• Always ask the owner permission before approaching a dog and never approach stray or unattended animals.

Pool Safety

• Always supervise children in and around pools, spas and inflatable pools.

• Ensure your pool fencing is compliant and childproof.

• Learn CPR and first aid to be prepared for emergencies.

• If you or your child do not know how to swim, enrol in swimming lessons. Learning to swim is a valuable life skill for everyone. Council offers affordable swimming lessons for all ages and abilities.

Road Safety

• Drive at or below the speed limit.

• If you’re drinking alcohol, don’t drive. What’s your Plan B?

• With more children and visitors out and about, remember to hold children’s hands and stay alert when driving.

• When enjoying our shared pathways, keep left when walking, use your bell when passing on a bicycle and keep dogs on short leashes.

• Double Demerits will be in force from 20 December - 1 January and from 24-27 January.

Waterway Safety

• If you’re going rock fishing, plan ahead. Wear appropriate safety equipment, let others know where you are going and carry a phone.

• Avoid swimming for at least one day after heavy rain to decrease exposure to stormwater pollution

• When out on a boat or jet ski, be sure to check your vessel, check the weather, wear appropriate safety equipment, prepare children, let others know where you are going and know what to do in an emergency.

Lifeline needs your help over Christmas

Lifeline Central Coast is calling for community support this Christmas, with more than 125,000 connections expected through their phone, text and webchat services over the festive season.

Christmas is traditionally a busy time of year for the crisis support and suicide prevention organisation as factors such as loneliness, financial pressure and relationships combine to see distress levels rise.

Lifeline is calling out to the community for donations to help cover the costs of

supporting people through challenging times.

For some, Lifeline represents one of the few if not only, connections they can access at a time when others are surrounded by friends and family.

Recently appointed as the new Chief Executive of Lifeline Direct, Luke Lindsay has a wealth of experience as a health executive and mental health clinician, coupled with a deep commitment to personcentred care.

“The holiday season can feel like a perfect storm of loneliness

and expectations for many,” he said.

“For some, it’s unbearable to face alone.

“But it’s easier to find hope when you have someone to talk to, and for many Lifeline is who they reach to for this support.”

Lifeline offers a free service that is accessible 24/7 for whomever might need it.

Every call, text, or chat is answered by a trained crisis supporter and provides someone with the connection they need in their darkest moments.

“Right now, Lifeline is experiencing unprecedented

demand for our services,” Lindsay said.

“On October 7 alone, we recorded the highest number of daily calls ever — 4,405 people reached out for help.

“Donations help ensure that our support lines stay open 24/7, so no one has to face their struggles alone.”

Donations to Lifeline Central Coast allow more crisis supporters to be trained and supported to answer calls in the region.

“There are 43 centres around Australia with volunteers who help answer calls to 13 11 14,” Lindsay said.

“This is a national issue and we all have a part to play to help make a difference to those who need us.

“We are proud to have a centre in Wyoming.”

Donations to the service can be made at centralcoast. lifeline.org.au

You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, chat to Lifeline online or access the Support Toolkit to selfmanage what you’re going through at www.lifeline.org.au (all services are available 24/7).

Environmentalist Mike takes out BAT award

Long-term Jilliby resident and lifelong environmental campaigner Mike Campbell has won Community Environment Network’s 2024 BAT (Be A Team) Award for 2024.

Community Environment Network (CEN) Deputy Chair John Asquith, presented the annual BAT Awards for the 25th consecutive year on Thursday, December 5.

“Our major award is the BAT Award, given to a person who has put in a valiant effort on behalf of the environment and sustainability, and I was very pleased to present this year’s award to Mike Campbell, a founding member of the CEN,” Asquith said.

“Mike’s first campaign was in 1977/78 as assistant secretary, then secretary of Central Coast Trades and Labour Council with Morry Breen and delegates and the saving of Riley’s Island with a Green Ban.

“It was one of the rare successful Green Bans outside of Sydney or Melbourne.

“Mike worked with the great Central Coast environmentalist Allen Strom on a campaign to save the Wyong valleys with a pivotal land study.

“He has been a long-term campaigner to protect Porters Creek Wetland, the largest wetland on the Tuggerah lakes.

“His environmental activism spans decades.

“In 1979 he was involved in the campaign to oppose the sewerage outfall at Norah Head called the ‘CRAP Committee’.

“Between 1980 and 1990 Mike led the campaign to oppose a power station at Mardi (CRIPS) and was involved in another campaign to stop the building of a chemical plant by Bayer at Wyong.

“In the late 1980s and early 90s he ran a successful campaign to save Pioneer Dairy, now Central Coast Wetlands, from development of the site for coal mining and power stations.

“He continued to be a member of the Pioneer Dairy Trust Board for a decade.”

Asquith said Campbell was a member of the Tuggerah Biodiversity Committee on a campaign to protect and restore the lakes and helped to produce a report on the Wetlands of Tuggerah Lakes.

“Mike’s commitment to CEN continues,” Asquith said.

“He was our treasurer for over 10 years, helped set up our old and new nurseries and continues to be active on the Central Coast Community Better Planning Group and with Future Sooner’s campaigns to close Vales Point and Eraring power stations.”

A special recognition award was given in memory of the late Boris Branwhite for his lifetime work on native orchids.

“Boris’s contribution to orchid research is recognised by the National Herbarium,” Asquith said.

“Thanks to his research the number of native orchid species recorded in the former Wyong Shire increased from 12 in 1996 to over 160 today.

“Boris discovered many new species of orchids and persisted in having them formally listed as endangered or threatened.

“A number of orchids carry his name – a high honour.”

Asquith said CEN would start a project fund for donations to produce a book on the orchids researched by Branwhite and photographed by his partner Debra Raymont.

Mehan joins push to save library building

Member for The Entrance

David Mehan has called on Central Coast Council to place the Gosford library building on its list of local heritage items and cancel plans to demolish it when the new regional library is complete.

Mehan has sought advice from the State Minister for Heritage, who advised the building has previously been considered for local listing by Council and the building remains on a provisional list of local heritage items which requires Council action to make the listing permanent.

“The Minister also provided advice on the circumstances which may allow an Interim Heritage Order to be issued,” he said.

Mehan said the Council proposal to demolish Gosford

library would leave Kibble Park without public toilets.

“I encourage Central Coast residents who are concerned about the future of the Gosford library to write to Council and the councillors,” he said.

The Best 12th Woman award goes to “somebody who has worked quietly in the background to support others in the front line and helps keep the team afloat”.

This year’s recipient was Eve Leeming of Spencer.

She has been a Land for Wildlife member since 2007, a National Parks discovery tour guide and a volunteer with the old Spencer School running Children’s Environmental Education activities for many years.

She is a current volunteer with CEN Green Teams, a Bushcare and a Waterwatch volunteer at Spencer.

Terrigal artist Isabela Sajdok was named 2024 Rookie of the Year as a newcomer to the conservation movement who has contributed to the improvement of the region’s environment/sustainability.

She is an enthusiastic diver, underwater photographer and ocean swimmer.

About two years ago, she and other Terrigal Ocean Swimmers formed the group Friends of Kurrawyba which joined CEN as a group member.

The group has run information nights on sharks and whales, beach clean-ups at The Haven and continues its campaign to permanently remove shark nets from NSW beaches along

with working towards a marine protected area.

Kariong Eco Garden was named Most Outstanding Community Based Organisation for its tireless work on behalf of the environment and sustainability.

It began when Lisa Wriley wrote to the CEN asking for support to establish community gardens as places to learn about composting, worm farming and permaculture.

A meeting was held at Kariong Neighbourhood Centre in 2001. Various clean-up days and other workshops were held over the following few years.

Kariong Community Earthcare became a project of the Community Environment Network.

An Earthcare garden or Eco garden was their first project. They met fortnightly at Phillip House, Mount Penang.

In 2004, the group looked at the Dandaloo St site as an alternative location for the garden.

In 2005 Council approval was received to establish a community garden on-site where it has remained ever since.

Kariong Eco Garden became an incorporated entity in March 2009.

From left: Mike Campbell, Gary Chestnut, John Asquith and Samantha Willis

New Chief Executive of Lifeline Direct, Luke Lindsay

Member for The Entrance David Mehan outside Gosford library

Christmas message from Dr Gordon Reid

Community Environment Network (CEN) was one of seven groups in NSW to be awarded a grant from Landcare Australia.

CEN will use the $14,000 grant to upgrade the Wildplant Community Nursery to help build the capacity of the community to support land care and biodiversity projects on the Central Coast.

Landcare Australia announced 26 recipients of the 2024 Landcare Australia Community Grants Program, with $300,000 being distributed throughout Australia for environmental volunteers to use in a huge variety of landcare activities.

Grants were awarded in every state and each of the projects supported will receive between $5,000 up to $20,000, directing funds right into the heart of grassroots Landcare groups across Australia.

CEN’s aim for this project is to improve the functionality of the wildplant nursery for their volunteers and increase the output of local provenance plants to supply to the community for ecological restoration projects.

As we approach the end of 2024, Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid has the following message for Coast Community News readers.

First and foremost, it is a privilege and an honour to represent you in our nation’s capital and to be your Federal Member of Parliament.

Throughout this year, I have met with many amazing Central Coast organisations and individuals, who are doing truly phenomenal work in our communities, and across Australia.

I am incredibly grateful to everyone involved in each

organisation and will always support these services, especially as they prepare for the Christmas and New Year period.

During 2024, the Federal Labor Government has been focused on assistingAustralians with the cost of living.

We have delivered a tax cut for every taxpayer, provided energy rebates to every household and to eligible small businesses, reduced medicine costs, strengthened free TAFE, wiped $3B in student debt with more to come, increased wages for millions of critical workers and helped thousands of people on the Central Coast access a bulk-billed doctor.

In 2025, there is more work to be done, and I am eager to keep delivering for our community on the Central Coast.

I have also held several forums across the electorate to provide information about available cost-of-living support and to connect people with government services, including Services Australia and Service NSW.

I have not stopped door knocking, holding mobile offices, and making calls to help people throughout the year.

My position is one of community service, and my energy has not changed since

Landcare grant for CEN wildplant nursery

The CEN Wildplant Community Nursery was established in 2009 as a not for profit, volunteer operated, native plant nursery specialising in provenance plants endemic to the Central Coast region.

It began as a plant rescue service, going into areas that had been earmarked for development, and rescuing native plants from certain destruction.

The plants were then looked after at the nursery until they

were able to be replanted in either their original location or for the beginnings of regeneration works on another site.

Volunteers meet every Friday at the nursery and are trained in everything from seed collection, seed banking, propagation and care.

The nursery has 16 regular volunteers who also attend during the week for watering and general maintenance duties.

A CEN spokesperson said the Landcare grant would go towards repairing and expanding the growing facilities with the aim of improving the functionality and space of the nursery to allow for more volunteers to attend our nursery propagation days and a higher output of plants from the nursery.

This year’s Landcare Australia Community Grants program, launched during Landcare Week, coincided with a big milestone for Landcare

Central Coast a blackout hotspot

The Central Coast has been ranked number five in a new report listing NSW local government areas (LGAs) most vulnerable to power disruptions.

The report by PSS Distributors, NSW’s Blackout Hotspots Revealed – Causes and Impacts, explores data for 34 LGAs across the state and unveils the blackspots where outages strike most frequently

and linger the longest.

Ausgrid outage data from April 2023 to March 2024 was used in compiling the report.

With record high temperatures predicted throughout Summer, power outages in NSW are becoming an increasingly urgent issue.

As multiple coal-fired power plants get set to close or undergo maintenance, the state is bracing for a record

number of blackouts in 2025 – a challenge that extends beyond just an inconvenience, but a serious risk to safety and productivity for residents and businesses alike.

The report says Hunters Hill was the most affected, with an average of 1,290 customers interrupted, followed by Lake Macquarie (834), Lane Cove (769), Ryde (754) and the Central Coast (753).

Residents in the Lower North Shore endured the longest disruptions, lasting more than six hours, on average.

The report also highlights environmental factors, equipment faults and thirdparty incidents such as maintenance work as the leading causes of the blackouts.

The report found disruptions on the Central Coast lasted an average of 146 minutes.

the day I was elected in 2022. I am committed to continuing to be a strong voice for you and our community in 2025. From my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas, and a safe and prosperous New Year.

My office will continue to assist our community over the Christmas and New Year period, if you require our services, please do not hesitate to get in touch on 4322 2400 or via email at Gordon.Reid.MP@ aph.gov.au

You can also contact with me via Facebook and Instagram.

Australia and landcare as a national movement.

More than three decades ago in Wentworth NSW, the late former Prime Minister Bob Hawke announced the Decade of Landcare and established Landcare Australia, and supported the national formation of the Landcare movement, bringing farmers and conservationists together to resolve environmental issues.

Landcare remains just as

relevant today as it was 35 years ago, continuing its mission to protect and enhance our natural environment and restore landscapes.

“The calibre of grant applications was exceptional – hand on heart – we were inundated with applications and could easily have awarded 10 or even 20 times the amount and still not met the demand to support vital Landcare activities across Australia,” Landcare Australia CEO Dr Shane Norrish said.

“Landcare also plays a vital role in building community connections.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to apply for funding.

“It clearly demonstrates that the Landcare movement is still as passionate and determined to restore and protect our nature and landscapes, as it was 35 years ago.

“The enthusiasm and energy underpinning every application was truly remarkable.

“I’d like to congratulate the successful groups and look forward to seeing what you achieve with the funding in 2025,” Norrish said.

Dr Gordon Reid, Member for Robertson

Nursery volunteers hard at work at the Wildplant Community Nursery

Dr Gordon Reid in festive spirit

NEWS IN BRIEF Fisherman rescued

A fisherman caught by rising rides at Soldiers Point on Friday, December 13, was the subject of a coordinated rescue operation.

The alarm was raised at around 7am, prompting an immediate response from the Surf Life Saving Central Coast (SLSCC) Rescue Services Team, NSW Police Force, NSW Ambulance and the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA).

With access by land impossible and the rescue was delegated and successfully completed by SLSCC.

Christmas services

St John the Baptist Woy Woy will hold several masses on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

On Christmas Eve a service will be held at 5.30pm on Christmas Eve at St John the Baptist School, 21a Dulkara Rd, and there will be masses at 7pm and 9pm at the church.

Christmas Day services will be at the church at 7.30am, 9.15am and 5pm.

See full stories online:

Folk club raises $2,000 for Mary Mac’s

Christmas is usually a time for celebration and happiness as family members and friends come together to celebrate the passing of another year.

But that is not how it is for some people – and that’s where Mary Mac’s Place makes a huge difference to some lives.

Close to 200 patrons attended the Troubadour Folk Club’s recent successful Bushwackers concert at the Everglades Country Club, with a raffle on the night raising $910 for Mary Mac’s.

Raffle prizes were supplied by Troubadour club members,

the Everglades and the mighty Bushwackers themselves.

Thanks to the generosity of members, patrons and performers through the year, the Troubadour Club was able to top it up, rounding the donation out to $2,000.

With little other funding except for the generosity of local folk, Mary Mac’s Place is always in need of such support as it goes about its business of helping anyone who is homeless, transient, hungry or in need of a helping hand.

If you have any dollars you can spare, think about tipping some into the coffers at Mary Mac’s.

Life membership for Di

Di Willard has been awarded Life Membership of the Ourimbah Region Residents Association (ORRA).

Willard received a commentative plaque and a bunch of flowers to recognise the award at the group’s recent

Willard has been a member of ORRA for 25 years and has always been part of the executive.

Her achievements included organising two Ourimbah Fairs and Carols by Candlelight events as well as championing development issue such as the

Ourimbah, the Glen Rd boarding house and the return of the Nissen hut space to the community.

ORRA members were joined by special guests, Member for The Entrance David Mehan and former Central Coast councillor

Di Willard

Troubadour Folk Club members hand over the donation to Mary Mac’s volunteers

Passion for guide dogs nets Angela life membership

Guide dogs are Angela Allen’s passion in life.

In her own words, the West Gosford resident “eats, drinks and lives” all things guide dogs. It’s a passion that saw Allen awarded an honorary life membership from Guide Dogs NSW/ACT recently at their annual general meeting in the St Leonards headquarters.

The award was in appreciation of her work over the past 15 years fundraising and supporting the Guide Dogs association and her endless promotion of the services the association offers people who are blind or have low vision.

The 75-year-old has been vision-impaired all her life, but it hasn’t stopped her living a full and very independent life, something she attributes to the support of the Guide Dogs.

When she decided to migrate to Australia from Ireland 16 years ago – along with her guide dog Hamish – it was the Guide Dogs who helped ensure the transition to a new country was a smooth one.

“It was an honour for me to accept this award from the chairperson,” Allen said.

“The Guide Dogs have given me my independence.

“When I came to Australia 16 years ago with my Irish guide dog Hamish, they absolutely supported me and made my move as easy as possible.

“It is now my passion.

“I have my independence, I am active in the community, I go to dance, I’m in a choir, in the CWA and go to clubs like Probus to help promote Guide Dogs.

“And I get there with the help of my working guide dog Jolie.

“I love being out there, representing the Guide Dogs association.

“I encourage other people with low vision to approach the Guide Dogs who can help you do whatever it is you want to do.

“They help you navigate whatever you want.”

Well known in the community, Allen has helped raise many thousands of dollars for the association over the years and said Central Coast residents were very generous.

“The people of the Central Coast are just brilliant and support us so much,” she said.

Christmas message from Liesl Tesch

As we approach the festive season, I want to extend my warmest wishes to the wonderful community of Gosford and the wider Central Coast.

2024 has been a landmark year for the Minns Labor government, making significant milestones to build a better NSW.

We were elected with a clear mandate to rebuild essential services, invest in our frontline workers, address the housing crisis and stop privatisation.

That is exactly what we are doing.

There is no denying that our community is faced with a crisis.

This year I joined hundreds of women who marched together at the Central Coast Walk for Women in a powerful display that enough was enough.

Following on from this, we

have introduced the toughest domestic violence laws in the country, making it harder for perpetrators to get bail, while making historic investments in education and supports.

We have made significant strides in rental reform, legislating against no-grounds evictions, limiting rental increases to one per year and making it easier to include our furry family in rentals.

This is providing greater housing security for the more than 40,000 renters in Gosford. In education, we’ve seen a 77 per cent reduction in the number of merged and cancelled classes in local schools.

We’ve also converted the roles of more than 16,000 temporary teachers across the state.

We have an ambitious agenda, which will not happen overnight, however, we are

committed to helping the people of NSW.

I also know that people across the state are doing it tough right now and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for families in NSW to make ends meet.

That’s why we’re addressing cost of living pressures by putting downward pressure on inflation, controlling spending through cutting waste and limiting any new spending to only the must-haves.

This festive season, I encourage everyone to shop local and support our small businesses, which are the backbone of our community.

The Central Coast is blessed with some of the best food and produce in our country, while being spoiled for choice at our local boutiques and retailers.

Please remember to support our local community while celebrating this year.

It is also a timely reminder to be kind to workers who are working hard to make our holiday season special.

As we celebrate this festive season, let us take the time to reflect on our achievements and recharge for an even better 2025.

As we enter a new year, I continue to be committed to making Gosford and NSW an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

This year has been one of significant progress and positive change, and it continues to be the privilege of my life to represent you in the NSW Parliament.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.

May this festive season bring joy, peace, and prosperity to every household in our community.

Prestigious award for Toukley’s Bronwyn Evans

Bronwyn Evans from Toukley Neighbourhood Centre has received the Not-For-Profit Voluntary Governance Award as part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.

As Chair of the Toukley Neighbourhood Centre, Evans has led a thorough overhaul of the organisation including its policy framework, strategic direction, and governance and operational efficiency.

The announcement was made in front of 300 volunteer and community leaders for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards run by The Centre for

Volunteering, the peak body for volunteering in NSW.

The awards celebrated the work and impact of volunteers across all corners of NSW and saw volunteers across seven award categories acknowledged at a gala ceremony in Sydney.

Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate congratulated all the award recipients and thanked them for their remarkable service to their local communities and NSW.

“I congratulate today’s award winners and all the finalists, nominees and their organisations for the

remarkable work they do every day across NSW,” she said.

The Awards are supported by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice and ClubsNSW.

Minister with responsibility for Volunteering Jodie Harrison congratulated all the winners and nominees of this year’s Volunteering Awards.

“You have been recognised as heroes by the people in your communities,” she said.

“Thank you for all you do to make NSW the best state to live and work in.”

CEO Rebecca Riant said volunteers helped enrich local communities right across the state, including within NSW clubs, and the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards celebrated their incredible contributions.

“We’re proud to partner with The Centre for Volunteering in honouring these inspiring individuals, and especially excited to present the Club Volunteer of the Year Award category, which highlights the outstanding efforts of volunteers within our industry.,” she said.

ClubsNSW

Bronwyn Evans from Toukley Neighbourhood Centre Centre with her award

Angela Allen received her award from Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Chair Jacqui Jones

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch in festive spirit

Failing basic maths on nuclear

Already I’m feeling lied to by the Leader of the Opposition who tells me that dirty nuclear power is cheaper than clean solar, wind and batteries.

His own costings say that wind power costs about a 10th of the cost of a nuclear power station to build.

Everyone from the International Energy Agency to the CSIRO scientists and even the Business Council of Australia agree that nuclear is more expensive and slower to build than renewable energy.

That’s why the private sector is largely paying for our clean energy revolution – because it makes financial sense.

(Which is) unlike nuclear which is so expensive that (Leader of the Opposition Peter) Dutton would have to use our taxpayer money.

For Dutton’s nuclear reactors’ price tag, we could install rooftop solar on every Australian home and still have billions left over to fund schools and hospitals!

So why is Dutton trying to

Boaters

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Terrigal safely returned two boaters to shore after their open runabout suffered engine failure, leaving them stranded three nautical miles off The Entrance near Tuggerah Reef.

The men on board the disabled vessel contacted radio operators at Marine Rescue Central Coast just before 10.30am on Friday, December 13.

Marine Rescue volunteers deployed on board Terrigal 30 for the eight nautical mile (15km) trip up the coast.

FORUM

Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit

convince us that spending billions of taxpayer money on nuclear is a good idea?

Perhaps it’s because it will prolong his Liberal Party donors’ coal and gas investments while we wait for the nuclear to eventually be built?

The Central Coast and Hunter region has dealt with pollution from coal for decades – we don’t want to add the evenmore-dangerous nuclear power and uranium waste to this deadly mix.

More clean solar, wind and batteries is what I want for our future.

Email, Dec13 Suzie Brown, Narara

Give nurses the pay they deserve

Was it coincidence or smart editing that I read on page three of CCN468 how nurses and midwives continue to rally and fight for improved

staffing and fair pay while the article below boasts of 10 new recruits to the Central Coast police districts as a direct result of the Minns Government’s focus “on retaining experienced officers and recruiting new ones”?

Whether coincidental or not, it’s time NSW nurses and midwives are given what they deserve – a 15 per cent pay rise.

Surely, if this current State Government can give “a historic pay deal” to NSW police officers of up to 39 per cent, a 15 per cent pay rise to nurses and midwives is not too much to ask?

I am a registered nurse and clinical educator at this district’s largest public hospital and it’s local university.

I can testify firsthand how this current State Government is failing on giving the public the best possible health care this country has to offer by neglecting to invest in its nurses and midwives.

The situation in our hospitals and public health clinics is dire.

It is estimated that eight out of 10 nurses and midwives are considering moving interstate in the next five years.

I personally know of more than a dozen nurses who have already left this local health district for better conditions and pay interstate.

One out of five of my nursing students have only applied interstate for new graduate jobs simply because living conditions and nursing pay is better.

It’s not a matter of if, but when, more nurses and midwives leave this state for better conditions and pay.

The NSW health system is crumbling and without an attractive rate of pay for nurses and midwives, it is only going to get worse.

We are exhausted and (Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong) David Harris and the Minns Government are simply ignoring us.

Try as we might, we physically cannot give our patients the care they need and deserve.

We need new money to attract more nurses and midwives so that we can provide the best

stranded off Tuggerah Reef

health care in this country.

It is against our ethos as nurses and midwives to completely walk out on our patients.

Can you imagine the chaos –and deaths – if all of NSW public nurses and midwives refused to provide any care, even for an hour as a way to fight for better conditions and pay?

We won’t do it.

It’s not our nature.

We can’t fight like public transport workers and public teachers and just not provide a service.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris and the Minns Government know it and bank on our compassion.

So we are calling on you, our past, present and future patients, to tell this State Government that nurses and midwives matter.

We urge you to write to your local MP demanding they give us the conditions and pay equality we deserve.

We fight for better pay; without it, we can’t give you the best care – we are too physically exhausted.

Email, Dec 16 Hayden Jaques, Toukley

What’s happened to the Labor Party?

Despite being an ALP supporter for many decades (but now no longer a member) I am disappointed in Premier Chris Minns’ performance of late.

He antagonised the nurses (underpaid hard workers with very little bargaining power) and now he’s sticking it to the transport union (More train delays as negotiations fail, CCN 468) – behaviour that one would normally associate with the LNP.

Funny; I could’ve sworn that he was an ALP member – the Party of the workers.

It is certainly no longer the Party that I joined in 1972.

As the LNP lurches increasingly to the right with the ALP happily following, the centre (and possible balance of power) is now left to The Greens and Independents; perhaps this is not such a bad thing?

Email, Dec 16

ON THE BEAT BRIEFS ON THE BEAT

Marine Rescue Terrigal Deputy Unit Commander Paul Barrie said conditions were favourable offshore.

“The disabled vessel was located anchored

approximately 200m off Tuggerah Reef which was breaking when Terrigal 30 arrived,” he said..

“It was wonderful that both men were wearing life jackets.

“A tow line was secured to the disabled vessel before the eight nautical mile tow back to Terrigal Haven where the men were safely returned to land.

“We encourage boaters to always wear a lifejacket and to log on with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16 so our dedicated volunteers can keep watch for their safe return.”

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

Boy injured in hit and run crash

Police are appealing for public assistance after a hit and run crash at Hamlyn Terrace.

At about 8.15pm on Thursday, December 12, officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District were called to Minnesota Rd, Hamlyn Terrace, after reports a cyclist was hit by a car.

Police were told a 14-yearold boy was riding an e-bike in a southerly direction in a bike lane when it veered into traffic and was struck by a white utility.

Ambulance paramedics and taken to John Hunter Hospital for treatment, where he

remains in a stable condition.

A crime scene was established and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash commenced.

As inquiries continue, investigators have released an image of a vehicle seen in the area at the time of the incident.

Police wish to speak with the driver of the vehicle, who might be able to assist with inquiries.

Anyone with information, CCTV footage and or dashcam vision in relation to the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Charges upgraded to murder

Charges laid against a Caves Beach man have been upgraded to include murder and manslaughter following the death of an elderly woman after an alleged sexual assault.

It was reported to police that at about 12.40am on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, an unknown man broke into an aged care facility at Bateau Bay where he allegedly assaulted and sexually assaulted a 90-year-old woman.

On Friday, November 17, 2023, detectives attached to

State Crime Commands Sex Crimes Squad charged a 34-year-old man from Caves Beach, who remains before the courts.

On Tuesday, November 28, 2023, police were notified the woman died in hospital as a result of her serious injuries.

As a consequence, the man’s charges were upgraded to include murder and manslaughter on Friday, December 13, 2024. He will appear before Gosford Local Court on Friday, February 21, 2025.

Charges laid

A man remains in custody over alleged drug and driving offences after crashing into a semi-trailer on the Mooney Mooney bridge.

Police attempted to stop a vehicle on Showground Rd, Gosford, at about 11.10am on Tuesday, December 10, but the driver failed to stop as directed and police started a pursuit.

A short time later, the vehicle crashed into a semi-trailer on the Mooney Mooney Bridge.

During a search of the driver

and the vehicle, police allegedly located and seized a number of suboxone strips, approximately 1g of heroin, and a prohibited weapon.

The truck driver was not injured.

The 33-year-old driver of the car was charged with various offences and refused bail to appear before Gosford Local Court on Wednesday, December 11, where he was formally refused bail to appear before the same court on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Dave Horsfall, North Gosford

The white utility failed to stop and left prior to police arrival. The boy was treated by NSW

Rescue Terrigal rescued stranded boaters

Christmas Eve carols in Kibble Park

Don’t miss the Christmas Eve Community Carols in Kibble Park on December 24.

The carols event has been running annually since 1961 with the main music provided by the dedicated members of the Gosford City Brass Band and the singing supplemented by members of the Central Coast Philharmonia choir.

The non-profit charity event runs from 6pm-9pm.

Since 2016, it has been organised by the brass band along with Gosford Wyoming Uniting Church.

The evening caters for young families and all those who make up the Gosford community with up to 500 people attending each year.

The free event is sponsored by Central Coast Council and local businesses.

In the event of heavy rain, the celebration will be moved across the road to the Gosford Wyoming Uniting Church’s Donnison St premises opposite the park.

The relaxed, informal familyfocussed event caters for all generations from young children to retirees.

People sit around on rugs or folding chairs in family groups and bring along a picnic-type dinner if they so desire.

Additional catering is provided by pop-up stalls with coffee,

ice creams and snacks available for purchase.

The event starts around 6pm with community-building games for anyone young or old who wants to be involved.

This is followed by a medley of Christmas songs and carols by the brass band at about 6.30pm and carol singing starts at about 7pm, led by an experienced MC.

a sense of community and belonging.

Gosford Wyoming Uniting Church extends a warm welcome to the entire Gosford Wyoming (and broader) community to attend one of its Christmas services or events.

There will be family entertainment in Kibble Park, Gosford

Each week, the church serves a community lunch that is open to anyone to attend.

At around 8pm there will be a short Christmas-themed address by the Minister of the church and at about 8.45pm Santa arrives to give out small gifts to the children.

The evening concludes around 9pm with the singing of We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

Afterwards a short evening service will be held at Gosford Wyoming Uniting Church.

The aim of the event is to provide a celebration of the Christmas spirit and to develop

This has been a valuable service to those experiencing hardship in the community and has run for many years.

Each year, this service extends to the provision of a festive Christmas lunch.

The Community Christmas lunch will be held on Sunday, December 22, at 12.15pm.

There will be a Christmas Eve (Holy Communion) Service at 9pm at the Gosford church, 129 Donnison St, and Christmas Day services at 9am at the Gosford church and at 10am at 91 Wyoming Rd, Wyoming.

DECEMBER 24

GAMES FROM 6PM CAROLS FROM 7PM

Carol singers at last year’s event

in conjunction with Gosford City Brass Band and Central Coast Philharmonia Choir

Gosford Wyoming Uniting Church

Memorial Park comes alive this Christmas Eve

The Entrance will once again come alive with colour, singing and holiday spirit this Christmas Eve, as Carols in Park returns to Memorial Park.

The event has been home to The Entrance for many years, developing into a full production spectacular with a more modern focus on the wellknown carols.

JC Entertainment and Events

Co-Director Emma Callaghan says each year welcomes a new addition to the event, keeping the magic flourishing

while maintaining the crowd’s favourite Christmas melodies.

“We like to book local artists for this event in particular, to really bring that family-feel to the community, through the beautiful sounds of everyone’s most loved carols”.

Joining the team of 10 singers along with the JC House Band this year is Todd Keys, who will bring his professional stage experience to the event through a unique rendition.

Keys has performed in many productions over the past 40 years, beginning his professional career in 2006

where he was a finalist in ABC’s Operatunity Oz, later employed by Opera Australia and even worked alongside Julie Andrews in the 2016/2017 instalment of My Fair Lady.

“As a long-time Christmas enthusiast, I’m excited to share my passion in singing with the community. Sharing the stage with so many talented performers, past and present students, dear friends and a sneaky little guest appearance from my son Hudson just makes this experience truly unforgettable,” Keys said.

Goosybumps rounds out year at the Fun Haus

Get ready to spice up your silly season with GoosyBumps, the ultimate Christmas Cabaret, to be presented by the Fun Haus Factory in Gosford on Friday, December 20.

This will be the last production of the year at the Fun Haus, which reopens its doors on January 16.

Hosted by the incomparable Memphis Mae, GoosyBumps is a holiday feast of burlesque, circus, sideshow and cabaret. Memphis Mae has captivated audiences worldwide, including at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas.

Known for her sharp wit, boundless energy and daring performances, she is the ultimate hostess to guide you through an evening of holiday mischief.

Joining her is Missy, a circus powerhouse whose breathtaking aerial and pole artistry will leave you spellbound and queer black artist Basjia.

Host Memphis Mae

Also on stage will be Jiggy, whose drag-infused physical theatre promises wild, high energy, and vocal powerhouse Shauna Jensen . Audiences are encouraged to dress to impress with a decadent, Christmas-inspired twist.

Alongside Keys will be Jessica King who is returning to the event for her fifth consecutive year.

“It’s such an honour to work with top tier musicians, who find the perfect balance of tradition and contemporary sounds,” she said.

“It’s really special watching people make core memories with their family and friends, and it never fails to get me in the Christmas spirit”.

There’s something for everyone this Christmas, with market stalls selling last minute gifts, food trucks, bauble

painting workshops and fireworks to close the night.

The crowd can also expect a visit from the big man in red himself, as well as dancing elves and The Grinch.

“For those feeling extra jolly, the 2024 event will welcome a children’s costume competition, with more than $500 in prizes to be won, all kindly donated by this year’s vendors,” Callaghan said.

Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the family-friendly event brought the community together on Christmas Eve, adding a

magical feeling and Christmas spirit to people’s holiday festivities.

“Council supports many wonderful community events during the holidays, with Carols in the Park being one that all ages can enjoy and participate in sitting under the stars,” he said.

The event is proudly supported by Central Coast Council, HIT101.3, The Greens The Entrance, Dunleith Tourist Park and Lakeside Shopping Centre and will commence at 6pm on December 24 at Memorial Park, The Entrance.

Start the night with $10 cocktails during Happy Hour from 6pm to 7pm and indulge in festive-themed burgers and empanadas from Beau’s Burgers.

Groups of five or more receive almost 20 per cent off tickets. Book at funhausfactory.org. au

Jessica King will perform at the Christmas Eve carols at The Entrance

The event is always a favourite with families

Fletcher Kent is having a moment.

Quite a few moments.

Central Coast residents will know Kent better as Fletcher Pilon, the young singer songwriter from Wamberal who won Australia’s Got Talent in 2016 when his song about his younger brother Banjo pulled on the nation’s heart strings.

Banjo, 10, was tragically struck by a car while skateboarding near his Wamberal home in 2015 and died from the injuries he sustained.

Before the Australia’s Got Talent win, Kent was busking around the Coast and following the win went on to do some tours, release an independent EP and formed a band.

“When I put out some music when I was 18, I just felt like that was the end of that time,” he said.

“It’s five years since I put music out, so I feel like I am going through a rebirth.”

Hence the name change from Fletcher Pilon to Fletcher Kent.

“Some people found my surname hard to spell and stuff

From New York to The Entrance, the spotlight’s on Fletcher

so I change my name to Fletcher Kent; Kent is my middle name and it’s easier.”

He recently won the Rolling Sets Festival Pro held at The Entrance where he beat 10 other artists to close out the Jim Beam Stage playing either side of The Wombats and Lime Cordiale.

“That was my first major music festival, and it was awesome,” he said.

His also recently released EP I’ll Be was produced and mixed by Grammy and ARIA winning Eric J who has worked with artists like Angus and Julia

Stone, Teskey Brothers, Chet fakeer and The Rubens.

The sound has a similar vibe to Noah Kahan, Briston Maroney, Matt Corby, Dean Lewis and Lewis Capaldi.

“I’ll Be seemed to just fall out,” he said.

“I didn’t even think it was a song at first: more of a poem, a personal manifesto.

“I feel there’s more of me in this song than maybe anything I’ve ever written.

“It’s about my life – all of it.

“Passion, purpose, family, love, grief, connection.

“It’s a look towards the future, a pledge to become the person I want to be, my intentions on how I want to live this life and exist in the world.”

The song has been added to Spotify and Apple Music and is attracting rave reviews.

His live performances are “next level” drawing on his busking background where he learnt early on how to capture and connect with an audience.

That raw, authentic spirit took him to stages supporting renowned artists like The Dreggs, Vera Blue, Kim Churchill, Winterbourne, Kyle

Lionhart, Noah Dillon, and Didirri.

In September he performed his debut show at The Mercury Lounge in New York and he hopes to return to America for more performances next year.

He is working towards an EP for 2025 and has recorded a song called Brother in memory of Banjo who continues to inspire him and to whom he remains “spiritually connected to”.

“He is ever present,” Kent said.

Just recently Kent and his mum Jilly returned to Wamberal Public School to present the annual Banjo Pilon Fun and Friendship Award.

In January, he will take up residency at The Royal in Bondi for a month where he will perform solo and with his band.

Signed to AWAL globally by US label President Pete Giberga & Kobalt Publishing, Kent said he was excited for 2025 which will see “more music with a larger project on its way”.

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Live jazz at leagues club

Carolyn Packer will perform live in the Parkview Room of the Central Coast Leagues Club from 2-5pm on Sunday, January 5.

With three decades of professional experience in piano playing, performing, recording, song writing, and supporting artists such as Junior Wells, John Hammond and Charlie Musselwhite, Packer has carved out a unique niche in today’s music scene.

Seamlessly blending blues, jazz, swing, funk, and soul in both traditional and contemporary settings, she pays homage to the boogie-woogie masters with a powerful left hand and unmistakable groove.

Carolyn’s authentic blues, profound jazz, and expansive repertoire are not just in demand – they’re celebrated and revered. Her performances are a testament to her exceptional entertainment skills,consistently leaving crowds in awe as her fingers fly effortlessly over the keys.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Fletcher Kent is looking forward to a big 2025

Skin cancer documentary at Avoca Beach Theatre

Conquering Skin Cancer is not your average documentary; it’s a compelling social impact film with a mission to prevent skin cancer.

Playing at Avoca Beach Theatre on January 7, the documentary weaves together compelling and emotional stories from survivors, advocates and world-leading experts.

In a country where the “bronzed Aussie” image has led to more skin cancer deaths than road accident fatalities, the World Health Organisation

predicts a staggering 68 per cent increase in melanoma deaths by 2040.

But this is not set in stone –and although Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, most skin cancers can be prevented.

Skin cancer is the world’s most common – and most preventable – cancer and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, accounts for one in five skin cancers globally.

In 2020 alone, there were 325,000 new melanoma cases and 57,000 deaths and the World Health Organisation

predicts a staggering 68 per cent increase in melanoma deaths by 2040 – unless we act now.

Nearly all skin cancer cases are due to harmful ultraviolet radiation, also known as UV exposure (ARPANSA).

The cumulative risk of developing melanoma is highest in Australia, where one in 20 men and one in 30 women will be affected by age 75.

Australia alone spends $1.7B annually on skin cancer treatment.

Conquering Skin Cancer

features prominent and beloved voices in this important space, delving into how everybody can live safely under the sun.

The documentary features many recognisable faces including 2024 Australians of the Year Professors Richard Scolyer and Georgina Long, Australian media icon Deborah Hutton, Olympian Cate Campbell, world champion surfer Wayne ‘Rabbit’ Bartholomew, and beloved Australian actor Hugh Jackman. Inspirational activists such as Jay Allen (Australia Skin Cancer

Foundation), Tamara Dawson (Melanoma and Skin Cancer Advocacy Network), Scott Maggs (Skin Check Champions) and Anne Gately (author of Sunburnt) also feature, sharing their personal stories in the pursuit of positive change.

The story explores the complex relationship with the sun; the good, the bad and the ugly.

Conquering Skin Cancer calls for an unprecedented push in prevention, greater access to life-saving care, and crucial investments in cutting-edge treatments and research.

Life-changing scholarship for Coast student

Wyong Christian Community School student Jonathan Wiltshire has been awarded a life-changing John Bell Scholarship.

Wiltshire was one of four talented young actors from regional areas right across Australia including Western Australia, Queensland and Canberra to be awarded a scholarship which gives the recipients the opportunity to work with some of Australia’s

most respected actors, directors, and educators.

He and three other recipients were selected by a panel including Bell Shakespeare Artistic Director Peter Evans and Founding Artistic Director John Bell, following auditions involving 91 students from across the country.

The scholarship program immerses recipients in a weeklong residency at Bell Shakespeare’s Sydney headquarters in January 2025.

During this time, they will participate in intensive acting masterclasses, train with Bell Shakespeare artists, undertake mentoring sessions, observe rehearsals for the Company’s first major production for 2025, Henry 5 – directed by Marion Potts and featuring breakout star JK Kazzi – and attend live performances.

The program culminates in a special performance where the scholarship recipients will present a Shakespeare

monologue to the Henry 5 cast, receiving expert feedback and invaluable career guidance.

Founding Artistic Director John Bell said he was very impressed by the intelligence and engagement of all the shortlisted students.

“I think the standard of performance is the highest I have seen in all these years,” he said.

“Choosing the top four students proved very difficult.

“Congratulations to all involved.”

Jonathan Wiltshire said winning the scholarship had encouraged his passion to embrace opportunities.

“Through Bell Shakespeare, I’m excited to explore human expression practically, through language and non-verbal communication,” he said.

The 2024 John Bell Scholarship residency will run from January 20-25,2025atBellShakespeare’s headquarters at Pier 2/3 in Sydney.

Infinite Aged Care Chamberlain Gardens

Care is about so much more than just meeting your physical needs!

At Infinite Care, we believe you don’t just join a home… you join an extended family circle! Our connections with you, and putting a smile on your dial are the best part of our day – it’s the reason we choose to work in aged care.

What matters to you, matters to us!

Jonathan Wiltshire

Hugh Jackman features in Conquering Skin Cancer documentary

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Montana rings in new year at Long Jetty Hotel

Montana Southern Country Rock and Blues Band will front the New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Long Jetty Hotel from 8.30pm on December 31.

This will be a free performance, with prizes for the best dressed country folk.

Montana was founded by Central Coast Local vocalist/ songwriter Jane StewartKemble and guitarist/vocalist Dan Granero.

Both are proud Australian

musicians who have toured the country and Europe for many years with their own successful careers.

Each has had vast live performance, touring and studio experience.

Granero has released successful albums worldwide that have charted on the ARIA and European charts.

Montana performs wellknown classic and modern covers in southern country rock style from artists such as Johnny Cash, Chris Stapleton,

Gretchen Wilson, Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, Slim Dusty, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Vince Gill, Alan Jackson, Allman Brothers, ZZ Top and many more.

Also in the band are Ricky Conning (bass guitar), Luke Mollica (drums), Brett Tierney (drums) and Steve Heard (piano/Hammond organ).

Montana has started to gain a solid following on the Central Coast and in the Hunter and has played venues to their full capacity.

Book signing to celebrate restaurant re-launch

A Greek-themed book signing will be held from 12 noon to 3pm on Saturday, December 21 to celebrate the reopening of the Ela Mesa restaurant at Woy Woy under new ownership.

Central Coast authors Sally Jane Smith and Ella McLaughlin will be on hand to sign copies of their Greek-themed books in a show of support for the new management.

Romance writer McLaughlin’s book Finding Me and You follows the adventures of Chloe Clarke, who finds herself alone on a two-week Mediterranean cruise which stops at a number of ports – including in Greece. The book cover features beautiful Santorini.

website Greek News Agenda.

Smith’s second book, Repacking for Greece, was published in April this year and shortlisted by the Society of Women Writers NSW for a nonfiction book award.

Together, the two-book series travels to 16 unforgettable destinations across the Greek mainland and islands.

Smith said that connecting with book clubs and other readers, including Greek readers, has become the most rewarding aspect of her writing. Meet the two authors from 12 noon until 3pm on Saturday, December 21 at Ela Mesa. To reserve a table for lunch, call Ela Mesa on 4339 7344.

All the Colours of the Dark

By Chris Whitaker

Every so often you are recommended a book and the cynic in you thinks –really, is it that good?

I did think that then berated myself after reading this book, because it is that good.

This is a missing person mystery, a serial killer thriller and an epic love story with a unique twist happening in each genre.

Late one summer, the town of Monta Clare is shattered by the abduction of local teenager Joseph ‘Patch’ Macauley.

Saint Brown is broken by her best friend’s disappearance; she is determined to find him

but when she does, it will break her heart.

Patch lies in a pitch-black room all alone for days or maybe weeks until he feels a hand in his.

Her name is Grace and though they cannot see each other she takes him from the darkness and paints their world with her words.

In this hopeless place, they fall in love; but when he escapes there is no sign she ever even existed.

Patch charts an epic search across the country, Saint shadows his journey.

This book explores friendship and love, unrequited and unrealised.

It’s perfect reading for the holiday period.

There is no questioning the beauty of Chris Whitaker’s prose, of his ability to recreate the setting of his imagination through words alone.

This is a story of friendship that spans decades and a connection that endures even when fate conspires to place people on entirely different paths.

It is a story of love that manifests itself in various ways. There is a deep vein of emotion flowing through the core of the book and you would have to be entirely hard of heart not to be moved by certain scenes, to not

feel the keen sense of loss that informs the story.

There are moments of light in the darkness – personalities who will make you smile just when the book heads towards the heaviest periods of melancholy and utter desolation. The highs and lows are worth it; ChrisWhitaker is a magnificent storyteller.

He is the award-winning author of adult fiction Tall Oaks, All the Wicked Girls and We Begin at the End.

Julie Chessman

SAIGON - MEKONG & TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

SAIGON (Ho Chi Minh City) CAN THO - MEKONG SAMPAN CRUISE CHAU DOC - PHNOM PENH

SIEM REAP (Angkor Temples)

Come along and discover more about our 16 night small group escorted journey to Southern Vietnam and Cambodia in September 2025.

hutTALK - Tuesday 21 January at 10 30 am at The Travellers Hut RSVP today on 43 63 1699 or email glenn@thetravellershut com au

For details contact your journey escort Glenn today on 43 63 1699

Dan Granero and Jane Stewart-Kemble

McLaughlin is currently writing her fifth novel, set in Greece. Smith is one of nine writers

recognised in the GreekAustralian Cultural League of Melbourne’s 2024 Book Awards.

Her debut travel memoir, Unpacking for Greece, was awarded first prize in the Prose in English category.

Published in June 2023, the book was also named a Reading Greece Book of the Month by Greek government

Sally Jane Smith with her latest book

Author Ella McLaughlin

LAKE HAVEN HEADSPACE

LAKE HAVEN

70 Chelmsford Road Lake Haven

Tue, Wed, Fri

8.30 am – 8.00 pm Mon, Thu 8.30 am – 5.00 pm

headspace.org.au/headspacecentres/lake-haven/

headspace offers free mental health support and care for young people aged 12 to 25 years old.

At headspace, supporting young people involves more than just counselling. It's about empowering young people to see their potential and build pathways to success. As a vocational specialist, I’ve seen how pursing meaningful employment or study opportunities can transform a young person’s outlook, giving them purpose, routine, and a sense of belonging. By working within an integrated team, we provide holistic support that addresses both emotional wellbeing and practical life skills. Together, we help young people to build their independence and reach their goals.

Samantha Bussenschutt

Senior Vocational Specialist headspace Work and Study

Business & Property

Old Pub reopens following major revamp

Woy Woy’s “Old Pub” reopened on December 13 following a major upgrade just in time for the busy festive season.

The multi-million dollar renovation has brought the historic building back to life.

The heritage 1897 pub has been a landmark in Woy Woy for generations and it has now been completely revamped to include a beer garden and

children’s playground, a restoration of the public bar, a bistro with boutique dining areas and a sports bar accommodating more than 900 people.

General manager Thomas Gurr said that bringing the pub into the modern day while retaining the special historic character of the building was of the utmost importance.

“You couldn’t recreate this character with an all-new build,” he said.

“The renovation has created unique spaces where you want to spend time with family and friends over a delicious meal.

“They feel cosy, elevated and distinctly part of Woy Woy.”

Local architects Fabric made every effort to retain the original timber cladding and cornice detailing which has been

painstakingly restored to its former glory.

With Summer now underway, the oversized beer garden is sure to be a drawcard for locals and visitors.

It is partially covered and designed with social gatherings in mind, overlooking a characterful children’s play area.

The new spaces give a restrained nod to Woy Woy’s

history as a fishing village with a tasteful colour palette of blues and white offset against tactile elements like recycled brick planters.

The menu also pays tribute to Woy Woy’s coastal origins with dishes designed around local seafood and produce.

There’s also an entire section of the menu dedicated to Detroit style-pizzas, beloved for their chewy crust.

And a kids health box is sure to be a favourite.

The new Woy Woy Hotel is owned and operated by Harvest Hotels, renowned for creating local and regional pub destinations with an unwavering commitment to the surrounding community. For more information on opening hours and menus, go to woywoyhotel.com.au

The revamp has retained the pub’s heritage feel

The Old Pub now features a playground

The new beer garden is sure to be a drawcard

I want to extend my best wishes over the Christmas break to people on the Central Coast and want to thank the local community groups, front line workers, the SES and volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout the year when we needed them most.

Central Coast Council has identified the top priorities for its water and sewer services, as outlined in 2024 Community Engagement Outcomes Report recently published on Council’s website.

Director of Water and Sewer

Danielle Hargreaves said the community-driven insights would play a key role in shaping services and guiding financial planning, including the 20262031 IPART water pricing submission.

“Over the past year, we’ve engaged with our community to better understand their values and expectations of our water and sewer services,” she said.

“This feedback has highlighted key focus areas that will support delivering a

Identifying water and sewer priorities

customer-centric service to our community.”

Key focus areas identified, in order of community preference, are: good quality water and quality sewage treatment; reliable service; affordability; environmental focus; effective planning; and transparency of information.

“This recent engagement with the community also specifically acknowledged the unique challenges faced by businesses which consume the most water on the Central Coast,” Hargreaves said.

“We are immensely grateful to our community for their ongoing participation and invaluable feedback.

“This report captures the voices and perspectives of a broad cross-section of our community, gathered through surveys, pop-up events,

deliberative forums, an online ideas wall, and targeted discussions with our diverse business community.“

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the recent

community engagement highlighted Council’s commitment to provide a community-centric water and sewer service, focused on preserving our environment

and maintaining the liveability and wellbeing of the Central Coast community.

“Water and sewer are critical services,and their management and usage are a shared

responsibility between the Council and its customers,” he said.

“The top priorities and other findings in the 2024 Community Engagement Outcomes Report will support Council to make decisions in the best interest of the whole community.”

The Report insights will inform the next stage of engagement which will focus on exploring service levels, impacts on future water billing and balancing customers’ preferred service levels with the associated delivery costs.

To read the 2024 Community Engagement Outcomes Report and a summary report which condenses the extensive feedback, search ‘Community Engagement Outcomes Report’ at yourvoiceourcost.com

A Council-led forum will focus on developers

Central Coast Council will host a Building a Strong Foundation for Future Growth forum in March 2025 for all stakeholders in the development sector who have an interest in the region.

The forum will identify barriers to development, discuss the burning issues around growth and explore how some of these can be resolved, Mayor Lawrie McKinna said.

He put the forum idea to the December 10 Council meeting as a Mayoral Minute.

‘’This forum will be the start of a journey,” he said.

“A journey that will lay down

the tracks for our train to leave the station, and ensure we are all heading in the same direction as we grow.”

He explained that he had recently attended an industry luncheon of the Urban Development Institute of Australia Central Coast chapter (UDIA).

‘’The event provided an opportunity to engage with leaders from the regional business community including the development sector, industry consultants and NSW government officials,’’ McKinna said.

‘’Growth on the Central Coast was a strong theme and the need to better plan for this was discussed.

‘’The current planning system, and the time taken to get projects through this system, was raised as a challenge.’’

McKinna said the council understood that the population was growing and community expectations were changing.

‘’As a new Council, we now

have an opportunity to show leadership as we engage with the development sector, form partnerships with NSW Government and build a positive foundation for the future,” he said.

Councillors expressed support for the forum but some wanted it widened to include more community representatives beyond developers.

Councillor Corinne Lamont said it should be open to everyone, and called for a Central Coast Forum; a bigger event broadening the stakeholders to community as well.

‘’We all campaigned on development so let’s showcase

the Coast to everyone, not just developers,’’ she said.

But she did not get have the numbers to get her idea up.

The councillors voted for the original idea.

After the meeting, McKinna spoke to Coast News.

“We say we are open for business, but delays in DA approval times are well documented,” he said.

“In this forum, Council can express some of the issues they have to developers and vice versa.

“It is also a chance for developers to hear what Council has been doing to speed up the DA process; it’s all about information sharing.”

Campaign to increase government funding for housing

Community housing provider Home in Place is urging people to join its online campaign to pressure the Federal Government to increase funding to help address the housing crisis.

Home in Place is a not-forprofit housing provider which manages The Meeting Place in Tumbi Umbi, offering a variety of community services and activities to low-income households.

The organisation offers affordable housing at a reduced rent that’s capped at 75-80 per cent of the market rate and manages Housing Pathways, the system for applying for housing assistance in NSW.

Campaign spokesperson Martin Kennedy said that at

Martin Kennedy

present the Australian Government allocated 0.6 per cent of its annual budget to housing.

Home in Place is calling for that figure to be increased to at least two per cent.

“A lack of federal investment over many years was one of the main reasons a growing share of middle Australia was being pushed into housing stress and homelessness,” Kennedy said.

“In the 50s and 60s governments built about 15 per cent of all new homes.

“In the 70s and 80s they were still building 10 per cent of all new homes.

“These days, they build almost none.

“It may have taken several decades, but the catastrophic consequences of that policy shift are now in plain sight.

“Home ownership is now basically impossible for anyone without access to intergenerational wealth.

“Rents have surged by about 50 per cent in the past three years alone.

“Social housing’s share of total housing stock is at the lowest level on record.

“The result is that severe housing stress and even homelessness are now impacting middle income households as well as those on low incomes.

“The new faces of homelessness are everyday people from all parts of society.

“They are people who are doing everything they can to keep a roof over their head but finding that the housing crisis is making it impossible.

“If we don’t deal with this issue, the fabric of Australian

society is going to be destroyed.”

Kennedy estimates spending two per cent of the Federal budget on housing will increase the share of total housing stock built by the government from less than two per cent to about 10 per cent.

“We are simply calling for a return to policies that have been proven to work,” he said.

“When the governments of the past wanted to increase home ownership, or give lowincome people access to decent quality rentals at an affordable price, they didn’t rely on the private sector.

“They understood that they had to get involved in the business of building homes and offering them to the public at prices people could afford.

“There is no mystery to the current crisis.

“The real mystery is why, for all the hand-wringing about the demise of the Great Australian Dream, we continue to ignore the policies that made that dream possible in the first place.”

To learn more about the campaign, visit www. homeinplace.org/modernhomelessness/ Home in Place is one of Australia’s largest nongovernment community housing providers.

It provides tenancy and/or property management at almost 10,000 social, affordable and disability housing properties in Australia and New Zealand.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna participated in a discussion panel at the UDIA meeting

Newbie councillor vindicated in seawall debate

Councillor Corinne Lamont was told she hadn’t done her homework during debate at the December 10 Central Coast Council meeting.

The discussion was about whether Council should prioritise sand nourishment over seawalls.

Lamont told the meeting that the councillors elected to the regional planning panel should not be present for the discussion.

She quoted the codes of conduct and meeting practices.

Deputy Mayor Doug Eaton said Lamont was a new councillor and obviously hadn’t done her homework too well.

He said Lamont was the one who had a conflict of interest since she appeared to be the person behind the Wamberal Beach Save Our Sand group.

Councillor Rachel Stanton said Lamont was trying to gag the Liberal councillors.

Councilor Jane Smith asked staff to explain what “beach armouring” meant – the words in the motion – but was directed back to the mover of the motion, Lamont.

Lamont said beach armouring meant seawalls and the biggest

of them all was a proposed 1.4km seawall at Wamberal.

At issue was whether four councillors – Eaton, Stanton, Jared Wright and Kyle MacGregor – should stay for the debate.

The four are either delegates or alternate delegates for the Regional Planning Panel.

Next year the panel will deliberate on three development applications (DAs) for the Wamberal seawall and one at North Entrance.

Lamont might be a new councillor, but it turns out she was right.

The Code of Meeting practice for the regional planning panel talks about avoiding perceptions of bias.

One sentence states that councillors should stand aside if a matter is related.

All four councillors left the chamber earlier in the evening during the public forum when two residents spoke about the item and referenced the Wamberal development applications.

But only MacGregor left the meeting when the sand nourishment item was debated about four hours later.

Lamont also questioned whether the CEO, in a written

Lamont might be a new councillor, but it turns out she was right.

response to the motion, should have noted that he had signed off on a land holders agreement as Council owns some of the land included in the seawall DAs.

Lamont’s motion called on Council to adopt a formal position of prioritising offshore sand nourishment over beach armouring in its coastal management plans, as a sustainable and environmentally sensitive approach to addressing coastal erosion.

The CEO’s written response stated that there were financial, legal and policy implications of the proposed motion but he did not say what they were.

He quoted part of a Council decision from October 2022 relating to the costs of construction works on private

land while dealing with the engineering design requirements for a Wamberal seawall.

Lamont said this showed the item was connected to the seawall development applications.

In the end, the councillors deferred a decision; leaving it to an as-yet unformed committee to deal with in the future.

The meeting ended at 10.13pm, immediately after this item.

But a week later, Lamont was vindicated.

All councillors will be excluded from the regional planning panel when it meets to discuss the Wamberal seawall applications.

A spokesperson for the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure said

the Hunter Central Coast Planning Panel is governed by the Sydney and Regional Planning Panels Code of Conduct.

The Code outlines that any sitting panel member who has an actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest in a matter before the panel must declare the conflict and excuse themselves from participating. Where the panel Chair considers that a conflict of interest has not been disclosed or appropriately managed by a panel member, the Chair may elect to excuse them from sitting on the panel for that matter.

“The Hunter Central Coast Planning Panel Chair has excused all councillors from the three Wamberal seawall development applications (DAs), citing a reasonably perceived conflict of interest/ conflict of duties as the three DAs include land to which Central Coast Council has an interest,” the spokesperson said.

Additionally, Council confirmed that there will be no Council staff representatives on the panel determining the seawall DAs as council has an interest in the matter.

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

Corinne Lamont

BUSINESS BRIEF

Accolade for Michael Seton

Michael Seton, Solicitor Director at Seton Family Lawyers at Erina, has been named Wellbeing Champion of the Year at The Law Society of New South Wales Awards.

The prestigious accolade recognises Seton’s dedication to enhancing physical and mental wellbeing within the legal profession.

The judges commended Seton for his innovative approach to workplace wellness, particularly through the Ironbark Initiative, which he developed with Kayla Seton in 2023.

Within its first year, the program achieved a 32 per cent reduction in stress-related absences, highlighting its impact.

Seton launched the Ironbark Initiative to address the unique mental health struggles faced by legal professionals.

Unlike traditional wellness programs, it is dedicated to promoting team wellness and family connections, with subsidies for activities like therapy and creative pursuits, along with paid time for volunteering or family support.

“The Ironbark Initiative is a flexible gratitude and wellbeing program that empowers our team to prioritise their mental health and thrive both personally, and professionally,” Seton said.

“Our goal is to reshape the legal profession, ensuring talented lawyers can build sustainable careers with the support they need to navigate its unique challenges.”

The award also highlights the collective effort of the Seton Family Lawyers team to create a supportive and forwardthinking workplace culture.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Confidence growing but small businesses need help

Despite concerns about wages and costs the latest Business NSW Business Conditions Survey reveals business sentiment on the Central Coast continues to improve.

“It’s encouraging to see such a strong improvement in the Business Confidence Index for the Central Coast,” Regional Director Scott Goold said.

“At the beginning of the year, we had the lowest score in the state at -70.6.

“We’re finishing the year third highest at -31.8.”

Goold said forecasted business confidence for quarter one 2025 was -6.8.

“The Business Confidence Index across NSW has not been in positive territory since June 2021 so this quarter one forecast for the Central Coast is very significant,” he said.

“Central Coast businesses continue to show a high level of resilience and optimism despite the increased cost and complexity of doing business.”

Goold said wages had overtaken energy costs as one of the top concerns for

businesses, highlighting the escalating pressure of rising labour expenses.

Coupled with rising insurance premiums and taxes, wage pressures have signalled a shift in priorities as employers grapple with a tight labour market.

The survey reveals the top three business cost concerns for Central Coast businesses are now insurance costs, wages and supplier costs.

Energy costs have slipped to fifth place – with taxpayer-

funded subsidies having an impact on energy bills.

“Businesses are also feeling the pinch as customers negotiate prices and cut back on spending,” Goold said.

The survey found 45 per cent of Central Coast businesses are facing increased price negotiations, 43 per cent are seeing a decrease in frequency of purchases, and 39 per cent are waiting longer for invoices to be paid.

“Businesses are already under pressure from rising

operational costs and now, with delayed payments becoming more common, it’s even harder for them to stay afloat,” Goold said.

“Nearly 40 per cent of businesses are now waiting longer for invoices to be settled, which means they have less cash flow to cover their own expenses.

“For small businesses, this delay could be the difference between staying open or closing their doors.”

The report says the top three business challenges are financial management, staff management and strategic planning.

Customer demand remains weak, with 43 per cent reporting fewer purchases and 41 per cent seeing smaller order sizes.

Additionally, 45 per cent are facing more price negotiation, and 16 per cent are seeing increased demand for lowercost substitutes.

As far as staffing goes, 39 per cent of businesses are maintaining the same headcount and 39 per cent

are hiring additional staff. Nearly 66 per cent of businesses are operating below full capacity, highlighting significant opportunities for improvement and efficiency gains.

Goold said the findings showed small and mediumsized businesses (SMEs) were facing significant challenges and needed more government focus.

Business NSW is calling on the NSW Government to: implement reforms to the Emergency Services Levy to reduce the mark-up on insurance premiums for SMEs; continue to remove barriers that prevent SMEs from dealing direct with the NSW Government; join the fight against inflation by ensuring public sector wage increases are matched to productivity gains; streamline the recognition of reputable qualifications attained overseas; and ensure that all invoices, both government and non-government, are paid within agreed timeframes.

Boost for Woy Woy business

Woy Woy partnership, Frontier Fabrication & Engineering, has received $22,487 from the Federal Government’s Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Program.

Owners Liam Crothers and Jake Wildschut said that the business had used the funding support to purchase two new energy efficient welders to replace their existing old and energy-intensive welding devices.

Crothers said he and Wildschut started the business three years ago and it had continued to grow each year.

“We have been working on helping improve accessibility at NSW public schools, building metal handrails and other metal structures,” Crothers said.

“The support provided by the Federal Government has helped our business improve its energy efficiency through two new energy-efficient welders.

“These new devices are half the size, are more powerful, and consume less energy.

“They have also made our business more productive.”

Wildschut said the business was very busy and they were looking for an apprentice who was ready to learn and be a

part of Frontier Fabrication & Engineering.

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said local manufacturing represented thousands of jobs on the Central Coast.

“Frontier Fabrication & Engineering is a metal fabrication specialist, crafting precision structures and components from a variety of materials,” he said.

“Recently, the business completed several projects to help improve accessibility at several NSW public schools.

“I look forward to watching their business continue to grow.”

Business NSW Central Coast Regional Director Scott Goold

From left: Jake Wildschut, Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid and Liam Crothers at Frontier Fabrication & Engineering Woy Woy

In the 16th Century in Germany people would bring in entire evergreen trees and decorate them to become ‘Paradise Trees’ for Christmas Eve.

This was symbolic of the tree from the Garden of Eden in Christianity.

Queen Victoria and her German husband, Prince Albert, raised the popularity of the Christmas tree in the UK after a newspaper illustration of them with their children around the palace ‘Christmas Tree’ inspired the people of the time.

From there, the modern-day Christmas tree as we know it was born and spread across the world.

So, what about growing your own Christmas Tree here on the Coast?

Australian native trees that will give you the Christmas look but will be far better suited to the environment here and fit in with the wildlife locals includes the magnificent, and large, Norfolk Pine (Araucaria heterophylla).

Woolly Bush (Adenanthos sericeus) is perfect for small gardens growing to about 5m and with bonus vivid orangepink flowers in spring and early summer this will delight both you and your local pollinators.

If you have a dinosaur lover or botanical history buff in your family, then try our Wollemi Pine (Wollemia nobilis) as your garden Christmas Tree.

DOWN IN THE GARDEN: A Gardening Christmas

One of the rarest and oldest trees on Earth, it will grow comfortably indoors and in sheltered spots in the garden.

How to Look after a Cut Tree

Firstly, look for a tree with pliable green needles and the least number of brown needles.

Give it a good shake and if a few needles fall off, that’s ok, but lots means it’s on the way to the compost heap too soon!

Once home, cut the end of the trunk off to ensure the free uptake of water.

Cut off at least a few centimetres to reveal a fresh surface.

The best practice is to use a tree stand as this enables the

base of the trunk to sit slightly off the bottom and will leave the cut surface free to drink.

For every 3cm diameter of trunk you will need at least a litre of water in your stand so for a bigger tree, place your stand in a larger container. Check water level every day and top up as needed.

Keep the Christmas tree away from heat sources.

Compost your tree either in your own garden, mulch up or take to your local green waste disposal centre.

Poinsettias

A native of Mexico, the poinsettia is a very interesting plant.

Firstly, they are not vivid red flowers that you are observing at all but the red ‘bracts’ of the plant, modified leaves that surround the true flowers.

Look closely \ and you will see that within this ring of festive red, tiny cream-coloured flowers that are the true blooms nestle within.

Poinsettia flower and display their colourful bracts, not only in red but pinks, oranges, creams, and whites, in the winter.

To supply the market in our Australian Summer Christmas, they are grown in cold rooms where winter is emulated.

Light is limited and they are kept cool.

After Christmas, you can plant your potted poinsettia out into the garden and while you won’t be enjoying their famous display next Christmas, you will have a ‘Christmas in July’ display.

Tip prune in late summer to encourage flowering and be warned they have a poisonous sap so protect yourself when handling and particularly pruning.

They also may not be suitable around young children and pets as they are toxic.

Australian Christmas Bush

Here on the Central Coast and across our state, NSW Christmas Bush (Ceratopetalum gummiferum) is our Aussie festive native.

GARDENING GUIDE

The sapsuckers are out and about. Make a note to treat your plants during the nymph stage in winter but now, hit with a strong jet from a hose, pick off by hand and drown in a bucket of soapy water. You can plant the following now: Culinary herbs, beans, beetroot, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbages, cape gooseberry, capsicum, carrot, cauliflower, celery, chicory, chilli, choko, cress, cucumber, eggplant, endive, kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, marrow, melons, mustard, okra, parsnip, pumpkin, radish, rhubarb, rocket, salsify, silverbeet, spring onion, sweetcorn, squash, tomato, ageratum, alyssum, amaranths, aster, begonia, California poppy, celosia, cockscomb, coleus, cosmos, cyclamen, dahlia (seed), gazania, gerbera, marigold, nasturtium, petunia, phlox, portulaca, rudbeckia, salvia, snapdragon, sunflower, torenia, verbena, vinca, Viscaria, waratah, zinnia

People in colonial times simply looked to flowers that reminded them of the key symbolism of the European Christmas of their birth places.

Christmas bush, with its bright red flowers in tiny bell shapes and its appearance at the ‘right time’ would of more than fit the bill.

Similar in ways to the poinsettia, the flowers are not the part of the plant that endear us to it.

The flowers are small creamy-coloured blossoms that fall away in spring to leave sepals that turn a gorgeous red by late December.

Find a full sun spot to plant your Christmas Bush and feed during spring with a nativespecific fertiliser only.

This is advised to increase the number of blossoms which will lead to a showier festive display.

When harvesting your Christmas bush, never remove more than a third of the plant and cut branches at an angle with sharp secateurs.

Remove all foliage that will sit below the waterline in your vase, change water every second day and snip drying bottom of stems as required.

Other Christmas Bush varieties include Victorian Christmas Bush (Prostanthera lasianthos) and South Australian Christmas Bush, also known as Tasmanian Christmas Bush (Bursaria spinosa), both of which will grow in Coast gardens.

Christmas Trees

Health & Education

Girls’ group shares the dignity

Girls of the GRACE group with their donation on December 7, 2024

Northlakes High School’s GRACE (Grow, Readiness and Creating Empowerment) girls’ group has donated 58 bags to the Share the Dignity: It’s in the Bag drive. The bags, filled with essential items, will make a real difference in the lives of women and children in need this Christmas. The group left the bags at the Bunnings Lake Haven collection point to be shared where needed. GRACE teacher Lara Jephson thanked community members for their generous donations. “This wouldn’t have been possible without your support,” she said.

New technology will aid cancer treatment

A major technology upgrade is helping to deliver shorter and more targeted treatment for people with cancer on the Central Coast.

Supported by a $6M grant from the Australian Government’s Radiation Oncology Health Program, two new recently installed linear accelerators at Gosford

Hospital’s Central Coast Cancer Centre are enabling faster radiation delivery, improved imaging capabilities and more advanced patient positioning. Improved imaging and patient positioning enables clinicians to target tumours more precisely, minimising surrounding healthy tissues being exposed to radiation and reducing side effects for patients.

Faster radiation delivery reduces the duration of each treatment session and increases the overall efficiency of the therapy process.

The new linear accelerators are able to support the capture of 4D imaging and for certain tumour sites, these machines can actively monitor the patient’s respiratory motion. This capability is particularly important for tumours in areas

affected by breathing, such as the lungs or abdomen, as it allows the radiation to be synchronised with the patient’s breathing cycle.

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said people could now access the latest radiotherapy equipment to ensure they got the essential treatment they needed close to home.

“The cancer services team plays a vital role in caring for our Central Coast community and the improved features of these new and upgraded linear accelerators will help them to enhance patient experiences,” he said.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said reducing the amount of time people with cancer needed to spend receiving treatment was vital in

supporting their overall wellbeing during such a challenging time.

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said the new linear accelerators would be crucial in supporting clinicians to improve patient care, particularly for more complex tumours.

Local MPs with medical staff

Medical staff demonstrate how the equipment will work for MPs Dr Gordon Reid, David Harris and Liesl Tesch

The fee-free TAFE scheme established by the federal Labor government two years ago could be axed if the Labor Party loses the next election, say Local MPs Dr Gordon Reid (Robertson) and Emma McBride (Dobell).

They say that since fee-free TAFE started more than 500,000 people have enrolled in a free course.

Almost half that number are in NSW, with 50,513 enrolments in the aged care and disability sector, 13,103 enrolments in early childhood education, and 10,831 enrolments in construction.

The number of people with TAFE qualifications is far higher on the Central Coast than nationally, with 30.8 per cent of people in the region holding a

Fee-free TAFE could be at risk

TAFE qualification compared to 25.5 per cent nationally.

Free courses are offered across the three TAFE campuses in Gosford, Wyong and Ourimbah.

The government recently introduced the Free TAFE Bill 2024 to make fee-free TAFE permanent and offer 100,000 places each year, but the Liberal Opposition has said it

will oppose the legislation, Reid and McBride said.

Deputy Leader of the Opposition Sussan Ley said it was a tenet of the Liberal Party that “if you don’t pay for something, you don’t value it”.

McBride spoke in support of the Bill during Parliament’s final sitting week of the year.

She and Reid joined fellow regional Labor MPs at a press conference to express concern that Free TAFE was at risk if the Liberals came to government.

“My Dad, Grant, was a TAFE teacher and my brother, Eddi, did his plumbing apprenticeship at Wyong TAFE, so I know the value of having a TAFE qualification and the difference it makes,” McBride said.

“On the Central Coast TAFE has always been a reliable pathway to gaining the skills needed to find a secure job,

while also filling local skills gaps and shortages.

“Peter Dutton (Federal Opposition Leader) needs to come to our community and tell the thousands of locals undertaking a fee-free TAFE course why he doesn’t think they deserve that opportunity.”

Reid said TAFE continued to be there for working families across the nation.

“We must never underestimate the power of TAFE and the role that it plays in supporting young people to achieve their dreams,” he said.

“The Federal Labor Government will continue to fight to maintain TAFE’s position as the leading provider of vocational education and training across Australia, including our Free TAFE positions in critical areas of the economy.”

Arthritis sufferers given fresh hope

People living on the NSW Central Coast suffering with pain from arthritis were given fresh hope this year thanks to the Arcare Family Foundation and Arthritis NSW (ANSW).

ANSW has developed a free Pain Pack that targets osteoarthritis pain using nonpharmacological options, and this year Arcare sponsored 500 packs to be given to residents who were willing to trial the contents.

The Pack contains strategies such as the Mediterranean diet to fight inflammation, exercise, weight management, mindfulness, assistive aids and thermotherapy.

It also contains a heat pack, topical heat cream samples, herb seeds, resistance bands and a squeeze ball.

A Central Coast resident Linda welcomed the Pain Pack trial as she is allergic to pain medication.

“I have osteoarthritis in my knees and ankles and the information in the Pack

encouraged me to increase my exercise classes from one to three times a week,” she said.

“I can do my own grocery shopping again.’

Arthritis NSW CEO Alex Green said that many residents had adopted the items and strategies, with 77 per cent using them at least three times

a week, according to user surveys.

‘We talk to people in pain every day,” he said.

“Many take medication because they aren’t aware of the non-pharmacological options or haven’t considered them.

“The Packs motivate people to try something besides medication to relieve their pain and encourage them to believe that their pain could be changed.

“Most users tell us the Pack has inspired them to take more interest in their health, ask more questions and seek

solutions such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy.”

The Pain Pack was designed by pain specialists in collaboration with people living with arthritis to provide services that directly impacted on pain management.

“Thanks to Arcare, ANSW was able to trial the Pain Packs on the Central Coast,” Green said.

“The feedback from users was invaluable and we are very grateful for Arcare’s support.”

Arcare Executive Officer Julia Edwards said the Foundation was happy to support ANSW.

“We are pleased to support Arthritis NSW’s efforts to help people living on the central coast self-manage their condition and ease the burden on the public health system,” she said.

ANSW aims to put 10,000 packs a year into the NSW community to share their potentially life-changing impact with NSW residents and enhance their ability to live well with arthritis.

HEALTH BRIEF Pay increase for educators

More than 17,000 Goodstart early childhood education and care workers will take home more pay this week as a result of the Federal Labor Government’s historic 15 per cent wage increase.

Federal Member for Dobell Emma McBride welcomed the pay increase, having voted in support of the legislation earlier this year.

This week, McBride visited Goodstart Early Learning at Woongarrah to speak with educators about what this will mean for them.

McBride visited children moving to primary school next year, where they performed their graduation song I’m on my way.

“Early educators do so much to support children in their formative years, educating and nurturing them,” she said.

“Labor delivered this pay increase because we value our early educators and the important work they do.

“Educators at Goodstart Woongarrah expressed the significant difference this pay increase will make to them and their families.”

Pay rises of 10 per cent above the award rate will start hitting the pay packets of Goodstart workers this week with a further 5 per cent increase in December 2025.

This means a typical educator who is paid at the award rate will receive a pay rise of at least $103 per week, increasing to at least $155 per week from December 2025.

A typical early childhood teacher will receive an additional $166 a week from December this year, increasing to $249 from December of next year.

Eligibility for the Worker Retention Payment is tied to a requirement for services to limit fee increases, making sure workers are paid fairly without the costs being passed on to families. See

Member for Dobell Emma McBride and Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid

Give a meaningful donation this year

Coasties looking to give a meaningful gift this Christmas can donate to Central Coast Local Health District’s Christmas Appeal.

The appeal is seeking to raise $50,000 to support outpatient paediatric services which would benefit from more donor support. These services include outreach and community services which care for vulnerable children experiencing poverty, domestic violence or living in foster care, children living with chronic and complex health conditions like cerebral palsy and congenital

heart disorders and Family Care Cottages which care for families with young children needing extra support and health advice.

Fundraising Director Kate Holloway said people often had a cause in mind when making donations.

“We receive great support for our hospital wards and areas close to our donors’ hearts, but our paediatric outpatient services aren’t as well-known even though they care for some of the most vulnerable children in our community,” she said.

“We would like to ask our community to support them through the Christmas Appeal.”

Heidi Mulder is a nurse in the Wyong Family Care Cottage and supports new parents who are struggling.

“Being a new parent can be hard enough, but some new parents are facing isolation, financial problems, lack of support or domestic violence,” she said.

“Our Family Care Cottages provide critical support to help parents succeed and their children to thrive.

“We aim to create an environment outside the hospital where people can receive care and feel safe.”

Mulder said the Family Care

Cottages were seeking funding to upgrade equipment and make the cottages a more welcoming and homely environment.

“For some, the clinical hospital environment can be traumatising,” she said.

“We create a safety net that wraps them up in a warm space that feels like home.”

Holloway said all donations would stay local to support patients, children and their families on the Central Coast.

Donate at www.shoutforgood. com/fundraisers/CentralCoast HealthDistrictChristmasappeal

Learning more about prostate cancer

The second Central Coast Big Aussie Luncheon and Men’s Health Forum was a success, with 150 people attending the event held at Gosford RSL Club on December 2.

The forum included presentations from representatives of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia.

Attendees participated in a Q&A session where they were able to ask questions and receive information about men’s health.

The event was organised by Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid following the success of last year’s inaugural forum.

“My position is one of community service, and I am passionate about improving health outcomes on the Central Coast,” Reid said.

“There were important messages being discussed including the importance of PSA pathological testing to examine for prostate cancer.

and informative presentations.

“I look forward to organising further health forums in 2025, and a special thank you to partner Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia for supporting men’s health awareness on the Central Coast.”

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia representative David Golding of Saratoga spread the health message.

encourage all males in your environment to also get checked.

“Seek professional help if you are concerned; take control of your life.

“Stay positive; survival rates for men over 80 have increased dramatically.

“Do yourself a favour and live a long and fulfilling life.

“Attendees also discussed Federal Government support for prostate cancer medications and greater community awareness campaigns for men’s health.

“I thank representatives from

the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, David Golding and Peter Casey, for outstanding

NDIS forum a success

An NDIS forum held recently at Blue Haven provided up-to-date information for participants, their families and carers.

The forum was hosted by Federal Assistant Health Minister and Member for Dobell Emma McBride, Minister for the NDIS Bill Shorten, and State Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch.

The Central Coast is home to more than 10,000 NDIS participants.

Attendees heard from Shorten on the significant reforms the Federal Labor Government has made to the NDIS, putting participants at the centre of all decision making and protecting the scheme for generations to come.

Tesch provided an update on the disability inclusion work of the NSW Government, such as upgrades to train stations such as Tuggerah and making

“If you are over 50, get checked; you may save your own life,” he said.

“Talk amongst your friends and colleagues and family and

“Men are finally listening.” For more information about the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, visit: www.pcfa. org.au

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community spaces more accessible.

Shorten took questions from attendees seeking updates and assistance, with a commitment to follow up each case.

Representatives from the NDIS and Services Australia were on hand to further assist with enquiries.

Since being elected, McBride has directly helped more than 800 NDIS participants and their families who have contacted the office seeking assistance.

CONVEYANCING

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business

• Leasing

• Retirement Villages

“The Central Coast is home to many NDIS participants, so it was important participants, their families and carers heard directly from the Minister and were able to ask questions,” she said.

“I was delighted that so many people could join the forum, and I thank everyone who shared their story.

“Since coming to government, we’ve worked to create a better NDIS for participants, their families and carers.”

Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford FAMILY LAW

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Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid with Peter Casey, David Golding and John Lindey of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

Member for Dobell Emma McBride chats to an attendee

Heidi Mulder at Wyong Family Cottage

Linda Emery Lawyer since 1983

Jets school program kicking goals on Coast

Nearly 250 students across the Central Coast are lacing up their boots this term as they take part in the Jets:LEARN program delivered by the Newcastle Jets in partnership with Greater Bank.

Among local schools involved are St Philip’s Christian College at Gosford and Mannering Park Public School.

Aligned with the NSW Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education (PDHPE) syllabus, the fourweek program includes football-based activities that teach vital life skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, and resilience.

This dynamic initiative is not just about learning football skills – Jets:LEARN is designed to keep children active, foster teamwork, and build selfconfidence in a fun and engaging environment.

Adding to its appeal are exclusive video tutorials led by Newcastle Jets players, bringing the excitement of professional football straight into the classroom.

Newcastle Jets Customer and Community General

Manager Matt Starr emphasised the broader value of the program.

“Jets:LEARN is about more than football – it’s about inspiring students to stay active, work together, and believe in themselves,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to see schools on the Central Coast getting involved and helping their students grow both on and off the field.”

Greater Bank’s Chief Distribution Officer Emma Brokate said the program

seamlessly combined the joy of sport with life lessons that stayed with students long after the final whistle.

“The positive impact

Jets:LEARN is having in classrooms across the Central Coast is inspiring, and we’re proud to partner with the Newcastle Jets to make it happen,” she said.

Jets:LEARN has become a highlight for schools across NSW with more than13,000 students statewide embracing the program this year.

The program is open to all primary schools across NSW at no cost.

Schools that register receive access to a comprehensive curriculum, video content, and supporting resources to enhance classroom engagement.

To find out more or register your school, visit https://www. greater.com.au/jetstearn.

Athletes do Coast proud

Two Central Coast athletes returned with medals from the Australian All Schools Athletics competition held in Brisbane from December 6-8.

Zahli Fisher of Narara Valley High School took bronze in under-14 women’s hammer throw with a personal best and distance of 42.62m.

Sienna Pitcher of Terrigal High School comfortably won her 3,000m under-18 women’s walk to bring home the gold with a time of 24:51.97.

Both athletes helped NSW bring home the Australian All Schools Trophy for the medal tally notching out Queensland and Victoria.

Mariners named state team of year

The Central Coast Mariners men’s team was named Team of the Year at the NSW Champions of Sport ceremony held at The Star Event Centre in Pyrmont on Monday, November 25.

The triple title winning Mariners denied the Penrith Panthers three successive Team of the Year awards.

After securing the A-League Men’s Premiership and AFC Cup last season, the Mariners went on to take the A-League trophy with a dramatic 3-1 win over Melbourne Victory in the grand final.

Mariners Men’s Head Coach Mark Jackson said it was a huge honour to receive the award.

“It is a credit to everyone at the club,” he said.

“The way that we work at the Mariners is that everyone plays their part towards the goal of success.

“To win the treble last season was a fantastic feat, and everyone who was a part in that needs to be proud.

“It is great to be recognised

against some top teams in different sports.”

The ceremony also saw Murray Braund from Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club inducted into the NSW Hall of Champions along with five others.

As a NSW Hall of Champions inductee, Braund joins the company of Sir Donald

Irish star joins Mariners

The Central Coast Mariners have signed Irish International and multisport superstar Sarah Rowe for the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season.

The 29-year-old arrives on the Coast from Collingwood FC, where she has been a player in their AFLW program since 2018.

Rowe began playing football at a young age, representing the Republic of Ireland at under-15s, under-17s and under-19s level.

After helping Ireland to the semi-finals of the 2014 UEFA women’s under-19’s championships, Rowe made her senior debut in 2015, getting an assist against Hungary in a 1-all draw after coming on as a substitute.

With a proud family history in Gaelic football she made the full-time switch, representing Dublin City University at club level and Mayo at inter-county level.

Playing as a forward for her county, Rowe featured in three Ladies’ National Football League finals, as well as the 2017 All-Ireland Senior Ladies’ Football Championship final.

She decided to move to Australia in 2018 to play her third professional sport, AFL, signing with Collingwood Football Club.

One of the first Irish women to sign for an AFLW team, she made her debut in early 2019, featuring in every edition of the competition since.

The multi-code star was not totally lost to football, featuring for Shelbourne Ladies in the Irish domestic league in 2021, before playing for Melbourne Victory during the back half of the 2022/23 A-League women’s season.

Rowe now joins the Central Coast Mariners in search of a new challenge, signing for the remainder of the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season.

Bradman, Sir Jack Brabham, Dawn Fraser, Marjorie JacksonNelson, Ken Rosewall, Louise Sauvage and others.

With a career spanning from 1969 to the mid-1980s, Braund is considered the best surf ski paddler of his generation, with victories in three World, seven Australian and 13 NSW championships.

A versatile footballer who can play as both a defender and a midfielder,the Irish International is ready to hit the ground running in yellow and navy.

Head Coach Emily Husband said Rowe would be a strong addition both on and off the field.

The Mariners were jubilant after winning last season’s grand final; Murray Braund was inducted into the Hall of Champions

Central Coast students enjoyed the JetsLEARN program

Sienna Pitcher with her gold medal; Zahli Fisher (right) on the winner’s podium with the second and first place winners

Huge fortnight in the water for Coast swimmers and surfers

It’s been a big couple of weeks in water with the Shaw and Partners Swansea Belmont Classic and Race One World Youth Championships clashing with the NSW Senior State Age Championships.

Held annually at Sydney Olympic Park, the State Age Championships are the premier event for pool swimmers, with it being one of the last meets to gain national times before the National Age Championships, which will be held in Brisbane next April.

The meet produced some outstanding results from our Central Coast swimmers, with Ashton Bone, Kye McDermott, and Bodi Bone all dominating in the long-distance events.

Ashton, swimming for the Gosford Stingrays, smashed his two-week-old PBs in the men’s 13 yr 1500m and 800m freestyle to bring home state gold in both events, and currently ranks number one in Australia for these two events.

Ashton finished up his medal run with a gutsy swim in the 400m Individual Medley, to claim a bronze medal.

Kye, of the Mingara Swim Club, also took home gold in the 14 yr men’s 1500m free in an unflinching swim that left his legs shaking.

He also took silver in the 800m and ended his 2024 Senior State run with a gold medal in the 400m free.

Other standout performances include: Jodie Mead, who won bronze in both the 16 yr women’s 50m free and fly, and the 800m free; Alexander Foreman for winning silver in both the 18 yrs and over 200m and 100m back events, and a bronze in the 50m back; Cash Milner, who won silver in both the 17 yr men’s 50m and 100m fly; and Bodi, who swam a strong 15 yr men’s 800m free

final to claim a bronze medal, then went on to defend his title in the 1500m free later in the week, bringing home silver.

In the multiclass events, Summer Klein of KPD came home with five gold medals, a silver and two bronze, out of a total of nine events that she competed in.

Aaliyah Currie of Mingara claimed bronze and two silvers in the 100m, 200m, and 400m

Family of League golf day a big hit

The Central Coast Family of League held its first fundraising golf day recently at the picturesque Gosford Golf Course.

The competition consisted of four-person Ambrose with a shotgun start with the field playing the challenging 18 holes.

Under overcast skies the players enjoyed a hearty

breakfast supplied by the Bendigo Bank, great supporters of Family of League.

The weather held off for most of the day with golfers making their way back to the clubhouse for a hot lunch washed down with a few cold drinks with some hard luck stories to be told.

Congratulations to all winners on the day with organisers

thanking the major sponsors for their magnificent donations for prizes and raffles.

Donations included accommodation at the Mantra Beach Resort, Ettalong, and Crowne Plaza Terrigal, golf at Kooindah Waters and Gosford Golf clubs.

Special mention went to Family of League Events manager Doug Keen for

supplying all the quality items that went under the hammer for auction.

Special mention went to two special guests, former NRL and Bears legends Greg Floriomo and Michael Buettner, for their expert thoughts of the game from the past, present and it’s future and who gave a very informative insight into the game.

distances, as well as a bronze and a silver in the 100m back and 100m fly events.

In surf, the Shaw & Partners Swansea Belmont Classic kicked off early Saturday morning at Blacksmiths Beach, with the iron heats running first and finals directly following.

Special mention goes to Tor Manser of Avoca Beach who took second place in the U15s men’s board race, and Kaelan Montgomery of Terrigal for taking out first place in the U17s men’s ski race, which also earned him a golden ticket to the Opens men’s ski final.

Terrigal also did well in the teams’ events, bringing home a third in the U17s mixed ski relay, and taking out gold in the U17s women’s board relay.

For the first time ever, Race One held their World Youth Championships the following day.

Billy McCarthy of Avoca Beach won one such board when he claimed gold in the U14s boys ironman final – he

also took home silver in the surf swim.

Also of Avoca Beach, Sadie Martin came second in her U13s girls ironwoman final, and Sonny Carmichael also ended up with a board for his third place in the U11s boys board final.

Finally, Lexie Eve Bush of Umina won gold and a board for her first place in the U12s girls ironwoman, and Lylah Glynn (also of Umina) took home a board and bronze medal for her third place in the U12s girls ironwoman.

To end the fortnight, the NSW Open Water Championships were held over the weekend at the Sydney International Regatta Centre - right on the tail of Senior State Champs. Levi Sinclair of Woy Woy Swim Club took second place in the 2.5km swim, whilst Bodi Bone claimed bronze in the 7.5km.

On the last day of competition, Ashton Bone took silver in the 5km swim.

Coach Ross Tait with Ashton Bone and his 1500m gold medal and Bodi Bone with his 800m bronze medal

At the fundraising golf day, Ed Johnson, Grace Vella, Chloe Minehan and Trevor Andrews

Double-trouble weekend for Mariners

The Central Coast Mariners endured a challenging weekend on December 1314, with the men’s and women’s teams falling short in their respective matches.

In Round Eight of the Isuzu UTE A-League, the Mariners men’s team faced a tough night at home at Industree Group Stadium against Adelaide United on Friday evening, December 13, suffering a 4-0 defeat.

An early goal from Adelaide’s Archie Goodwin gave the visitors the advantage heading into half-time.

Adelaide capitalised on their momentum early in the second half, with quickfire goals from Panagiotis Kikianis and Stefan Mauk putting the game beyond reach for the Mariners.

Substitute Yaya Dukuly added a fourth, sealing a dominant performance for Adelaide and leaving the Mariners searching for answers.

The Central Coast Mariners women’s team also faced difficulties, with their match against Brisbane Roar in the Ninja A-League initially abandoned on Saturday night, December 14, due to a waterlogged pitch at Perry Park.

Persistent rain made conditions unplayable, forcing the game to be rescheduled

for the following day.

When play resumed on Sunday, the Mariners fell just short in a closely contested match, with Brisbane Roar securing a 2-1 victory.

Matildas star Tameka Yallop proved the difference, her 80th-minute header clinching the win and propelling Brisbane to the top of the Ninja A-League standings.

Earlier in the match, the Mariners showed resilience, with teenager Tiana Fuller equalising after Deborah-Anne De la Harpe’s opener for the Roar in the second half.

Despite their efforts, the Mariners couldn’t contain Yallop’s decisive late goal.

The Mariners men’s team will look to regroup as they face a crucial match next week against Macarthur FC on Monday evening, December 23, while the women’s team aims to bounce back from the narrow loss and regain momentum in their campaign against Western United on Sunday, December 22.

Fans will be hoping for a reversal of fortunes as both sides strive to climb the league standings

The CC Mariners embrace. Photo: CCM Media

Mariners attacker Brooke Nunn. Photo: CCM Media