Issue 42 of Wyong Regional Chronicle by Central Coast Newspapers

FREE

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

March 21, 2014

Issue 42

Ourimbah protest rally well attended ver 200 people attended a rally in Ourimbah on Sunday, March 9, to protest against the proposed four storey, 101 unit affordable boarding house development in Glen Rd.

The rally was addressed by Member for The Entrance Mr Chris Spence, Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton, Senator Deborah O’Neill, Member for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara, representative of the developer Ms Katie Gregory and Resident’s Action Group chairman Mr Greg McGill. Mr Spence, Ms McNamara and Ms O’Neill spoke of the need for appropriate development in Ourimbah to maintain the present amenity for residents. Mayor Cr Eaton outlined the planning process involved with this development while Ms Gregory conﬁrmed the development application had been returned to the developer to address the 165 residents’ objections lodged with Wyong Council. Mr McGill said the rally was about saving Ourimbah.

“If this four storey boarding house development proceeds, Ourimbah is lost forever,” he said. “In the 150 year plus history of Ourimbah, this represents the largest single threat to our community lifestyle. “Ourimbah is the oldest town on the Central Coast with the post ofﬁce, railway station, public school and World War I monument all heritage listed. “Ourimbah is a country village servicing the surrounding semirural community and should remain that way to maintain the lifestyle which has attracted us to live here in the ﬁrst place. “Surely, the views of the 4,000 residents of Ourimbah must take precedence over one entrepreneurial developer. “Ourimbah will be left with the legacy and eyesore for the next 60

Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton speaking at the rally

plus years. “This will also set a precedent for more high rise development to follow. “If this development goes ahead, Ourimbah village will be gone forever,” said Mr McGill. A key provision in the Planning Instrument for Affordable Housing is the “Local Character Test” which takes into account such items

as physical impact, noise, overshadowing, overlooking, parking, trafﬁc congestion, surrounding streetscape, and the visual catchment of the building, including colour, style and size. “Objections about these issues will form the basis of the residents’ presentation to the Hunter/Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel,” said Mr McGill.

A spokesperson for the residents’ action group Mr Allan Benson said: “This successful rally demonstrates the community concern for the proposed development.” “These are only the ﬁrst steps of what we think, will be a long and drawn out campaign. “We want to assure the community we will be continuing the ﬁght on their behalf.

“We want to thank the residents of Ourimbah for their support and we will be keeping everybody informed of progress in the battle to save Ourimbah from inappropriate development.” Media release, 17 Mar 2014 Allan Benson, Stop Glen Rd Development Resident’s Action Group.

the Wyong Shire

Directory

P2 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014

Wyong services directory Ambulance, Police, Fire 000 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Organisations Aboriginal Legal Service 8842 8000 Community Options 4351 3388 Bungree Aboriginal Association 4397 7700 Mingaletta 4342 7515 Aboriginal Home Care 4352 1153 Drug & Alcohol rehab 4388 6360 Respite Care Options 4351 3388 Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Health 4351 1040 Darkinjung Local Land Council 4351 2930

Accommodation Dept. of Housing Wyong 4352 4400 Wyong accomodation support program 4351 0365 Paciﬁc Link Com Housing 4324 7617 Samaritans Youth Services 4351 1922 Youth Accom Hotline 1800 424 830 Temporary Accommodation 1800 152 152

Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321 Family Drug Support 1300 368 186 G-line - Gambling Helpline 1800 633 635 Credit Helpline 1800 808 488 Child Support Agency 13 12 72 Australian Injury Helpline 1800 223 363 Veteran Affairs Network 1300 551 918 Mens Domestic Violence 1800 000 599 Sexual Assault Resource 1800 199 888 Gay and Lesbian Counselling 1800 184 527 Gay and Lesbian Support 1800 249 377 Youth Sexuality Network 4320 2856 Vietnam Veterans 1800 043 503 Victims Support Services 1800 633 063 Translation and Interpreting Service 13 14 50

Parents Helpline 132 055 Oasis Youth Centre 4353 9799 Horizons (For families) 4333 5111 Interrelate - Family Relationships 1300 736 966

Wires 1300 094 737

Health Wyong Hospital 4394 8000 Cancer Hotline 131 120 Mental Health info Service 1300 794 991 Beyond Blue (Depression) 1300 22 4636

Counselling Mensline - talk with a bloke 1300 789 978 Lifecare Family Services 1300 130 225 CatholicCare: 4356 2600 Relationship Australia: 1300 364 277 Interrelate: 1800 449 118

Community Women’s Health Centre 4351 1152

Problems, Habits & Addiction

Emergency

G-Line Telephone Counsel 1800 633 635 Gamblers Anonymous 9726 6625 Alcoholics Anonymous 4323 3890 Narcotics Anonymous 4325 0524 Quitline 131 848

Police Assistance Line 131 444 Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 Wyong Police Station 4356 6099 Energy Australia 13 13 88 Gas Emergency 131 909 Wyong Shire Council 4350 5555 Marine Rescue - Central Coast 4325 7929 SES - Storm and Flood Emergency 132 500

Coast Community Centre 4325 3510 Horizons Family Services 4334 3377 Meals on Wheels Wyong - 4333 6942 Department of Community Services Wyong - 4352 6500 The Salvation Army 4325 5733 Samaritans Emergency Relief 4393 2450

Lifeline - 24 hr. 13 11 14 Suicide Helpline 1800 191 919 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Parents Helpline 13 20 55 Indigenous Call Centre 136 380

St Vincent De Paul Society HELPLINE 4323 6081

also, see the Not for Proﬁt organisations ons directory inside

Community Access

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

The pass permits entry of two adults and two children aged three to 15 years to the Australian Reptile Park until March 9, 2015. The Reptile Park has gone through a bit of a makeover, now housing bilbies and new komodo dragons. A brand new stand has been set up at Elvis the crocodile’s enclosure and the nature walk features a Noctarium and bush bird’s aviary. Also featuring through the holidays will be Kids to Keepers workshops and a VIP Behind the Scenes Tour on April 12 which gives youths from the ages of three to 18 the opportunity to discover what goes on behind the scenes at the zoo. To win one of the two double passes, write your name, address and phone number on the back of an envelope and send to Wyong Regional Chronicle Australian Reptile Park competition PO Box 1056, Gosford, NSW, 2250, by the close of business Thursday, April 3. The winners of last edition’s Wyong Regional Chronicle Central Coast Mariners competition were Ben Burnside of Mardi, Brian Goodey of Lisarow and Louise Seaborn of Wyong. Prize winners may be required to pick up their prize from our Gosford ofﬁce. Entries may be passed on to prize providers for marketing purposes.

Your independent community newspaper, published fortnightly on Fridays and focusing on issues speciﬁcally affecting post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263 Alison, Bateau Bay, Berkeley Vale, Blue Bay, Blue Haven, Budgewoi, Budgewoi Peninsula, Buff Point, Bushells Ridge, Canton Beach, Cedar Brush Creek, Chain Valley Bay, Charmhaven, Chittaway Bay, Chittaway Point, Colongra, Crangan Bay, Dooralong, Doyalson, Doyalson North, Durren Durren, Fountaindale, Frazer Park, Freemans, Glenning Valley, Gorokan, Gwandalan, Halekulani, Halloran, Hamlyn Terrace, Jilliby, Kangy Angy, Kanwal, Kiar, Killarney Vale, Kingﬁsher Shores, Lake Haven, Lake Munmorah, Lemon Tree, Little Jilliby, Long Jetty, Magenta, Mannering Park, Mardi, Moonee, Norah Head, Noraville, Ourimbah, Palmdale, Palmgrove, Point Wolstoncroft, Ravensdale, Rocky Point, San Remo, Shelly Beach, Summerland Point, Tacoma, Tacoma South, The Entrance, The Entrance North, Toowoon Bay, Toukley, Tuggerah, Tuggerawong, Tumbi Umbi, Wadalba, Wallarah, Warnervale, Watanobbi, Woongarrah, Wybung, Wyee, Wyee Point, Wyong, Wyong Creek, Wyongah, Yarramalong

Publisher/Editor: Cec Bucello Graphic Design: Justin Stanley

Journalists: Kaitlin Watts Patrick Hogan Pia Davids Kimberley Braddish

editorial@duckscrossing.org Ph: 4325 7369 Next Edition: Wyong Regional Chronicle 43

Deadline: April 2

Publication date: April 4

Contributions welcomed Letters to the editor and other contributions are welcomed and should be addressed to: Wyong Regional Chronicle, PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250. Contributions should be in Word format sent via email to: editorial@wyongnews.org, on disks or by handwritten letter if these facilities are not available to you. Contributions must include the date, your name, address and phone numbers. Name and Suburb will be published. Anonymous contributions will not be included. Submissions may be published in edited form.

FREE

March 12, 2014

Your independent local newspaper

Ph: 4325 7369

Camp Quoll members say no to expansion

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

ver 40 residents and Camp Quoll members from the Central Coast community braved the wet and cold conditions to gather at the front gates of Rocla Calga Sand Quarry at 11am on Saturday, March 1, to say no to the expansion that was approved by the NSW State Government on December 23.

Residents opposed to the proposed boarding house

Chamber says boarding house is inappropriate at Ettalong

“We are aware of comments by the applicant that they do not intend for the proposed boarding house to be used as a refuge or halfway house for welfare recipients,” said Mr Wales. “However, this would not preclude the development from being used for this purpose in the future or any subsequent owner utilising the boarding house for social housing. “It remains our position that boarding house accommodation should be located close to support services, social service infrastructure and major public transport nodes. “The applicant has also stated that the proposal will provide

when the rooms are relatively small being less than 25m2 in area. “It is also difficult to envisage what commuters might use the premises when any commuter from the area would already reside locally and even more difficult to envisage what students might reside in the boarding house when the nearest university is nearly an hour away at Ourimbah. “The applicant has also stated that the impact of the boarding house development will be no different to that of a residential flat building. “It is the Chamber’s view that the impacts are completely different. “Any residential development on the site would much be less intense and require less parking. “Nor could it possibly produce a 60 person population yield on the site. “By their nature, and coupled with bonus provisions for density under the SEPP (Affordable Rental Housing), boarding houses are intense developments that

generally have higher impacts than standard residential developments. “The applicant has also maintained that the development and proposed cafe is in keeping with council’s plans for the waterfront promenade. “The Chamber is not aware of any plans contained in the Ettalong Beach Foreshore Masterplan that includes cafes on the reserve front in this portion of the foreshore upgrade. “The foreshore reserve between Picnic Pde and Ferry Rd has traditionally been used for passive recreation with more active uses adjacent to the Ettalong Beach retail frontage. “The proposal would be incongruous with the passive uses traditionally attributed to this area. “The applicant has also stated that the development will be privately owned and operated and will not receive any government funding or subsidies. “That may be the case at the time of assessment, however,

should approval be granted the applicant is perfectly entitled to apply for a range of government subsidies including the Boarding House Financial Assistance Program together with government subsidised referrals from the Department of Housing or other departments. “This does not preclude subsequent owners of the boarding house to apply for subsidies or take on department referrals as part of any future business plan of operation”. “The Chamber is well aware of how business circumstances can change and whilst assurances can be made in the short term, this is no guarantee that the boarding house may operate in a completely different format in the future,” said Mr Wales. Media release, 6 Mar 2014 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce

Camp Quoll, named after the endangered Spotted Quoll living in the area, was set up to protect the local fauna and flora, which rely on aquifers for their survival. Camp Quoll member Ian Sutton, who is also the police liaison for the Peaceful Direct Action, said: “We are blockading the quarry in the hope that we can give a voice to the eleven known endangered and threatened animals that inhabit the proposed quarry site.” “The destruction of habitat and removal of the ridge top aquifers will dramatically alter the existing ecology and see a significant decrease in biodiversity. “With most of the country already degraded, and many of our fauna and flora species lost or endangered, the community must begin to take more responsibility and stand up to protect the last bastions of high biodiversity like that of the Central Coast.

“If the practice of quarrying these important aquifers to produce sand continues, the Central Coast can expect to see the drying out of the landscape causing a loss of biodiversity, creating catastrophic fire conditions and resulting in severe water shortages. “These aquifers provide much of our environmental flows, industrial water and drinking water, all mandatory for supporting our local economy, community and ecology. “The huge numbers of community members participating in these Peaceful Direct Actions, standing up for their local environment, is an exciting and promising prospect for a better outcome and future for the Central Coast communities surrounding Rocla Materials,” said Mr Sutton. Media release, 3 Mar 2014 Lynn Cowie, Our Land Our Water Our Future

and

ver 20 200 people attended a rally in Ourimbah on Sunday, March 9, to Ourim protest against the proposed four protes storey, unit affordable boarding house y 101 u development in i Glen Rd.

The rally was addressed by Member Me for The Entrance Mr M Chris Spence, Wyong W mayor Cr Doug Eaton, Eaton Senator Deborah O’Neill, Member for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara, Mc representative of the ddeveloper e Ms Katie G Gre reegg regory R Gregory and Resident’s Action on Group chairman on c M McGil M Mrr Gregg McGill. M Mr Speenc Spence, Ms Mc McN cNamara and cN a McNamara Ms O’Neill O ’ spok ppok okke of the oke spoke need for fooorr appropriate ap develop lop oopment op pm development in O uuri rrim riimbah i Ourimbah to maintain tthe hhee present amenity am for residents. Mayor Cr Eaton outlined the planning process involv involved with this developme development while Ms Gregory cconﬁrmed the deve development application had ha been returned to the developer d to address the t 165 residents’ o objections lodged with Wyong Council. Mr McGill said the rally was about abou saving Ourimbah.

EPA should come cleann T

he Community Environment Network (CEN) has corrected claims made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that only 555,616 tonnes of waste were dumped at Mangrove Mountain.

CEN chairman Mr John Asquith said the actual amount dumped is closer to 900,000 tonnes. Gosford Council approved dumping of 240,000 cubic metres (216,000 tonnes) in a development consent in1998. How and why there is such large discrepancies has not been revealed by the EPA. “This is important as the levy on dumping is usually $107/tonne and such a volume could be worth up

to $40 million to the NSW Government,” said Mr Asquith. “In their press release, the EPA conveniently ignore this discrepancy. “Excess dumping and instability of the waste heap is the reason council have needed to take court action. “The EPA must have known what was going on,” said Mr Asquith. Copies of the licence issued by the EPA and obtained by CEN show that in June 2008 (EPA Notice 1082616) the

EPA removed Condition M7 which limited the dumping to 240,000 cubic metres in total, in line with the Development Consent. “From weighbridge ﬁgures provided by the EPA, it is clear that this limit would have been exceeded within 4 months (ie October 2008),” said Mr Asquith. Another limit (Condition L5.4) in the licence of 250,000 tonnes per annum was removed later in 2008. “It is clear that, once the limit

is was removed by the EPA, this allowed the excess dumping to occur through to thee present time,” said Mr Asquith.. d come “The EPA should clean and tell the full story of who authorised the excess dumping, why the limit mit was removed and where ere the excess dumping in excess xcess of the consent conditions ns came from. “Locals have been complaining about excess dumping for some time, me, but their complaints have ve been ignored by the EPA,” said Mr Asquith.

Media release, 7 Mar 2014 John Asquith, ith, CEN

THIS ISSUE contains 31 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

Get the most out of your advertising dollar. www.duckscrossing.org

Issue 42

Ourimbah protest rally well attended

housing for aged and single person households together with students and commuters. “The fact remains that boarding houses are speciﬁcally for lodgers on a short-term basis. “Under the new Gosford LEP 2014, this precludes backpackers’ accommodation, group homes, hotel or motel accommodation, seniors housing or serviced apartments. “These uses are quite different. “Therefore, if the boarding house cannot be used for backpackers, cannot be used as a group home, cannot be used for motel accommodation, cannot be used to house seniors and cannot be used as residential serviced apartments, then the community has genuine reason to ask exactly what the development will be used for. “It is difﬁcult to envisage how the proposal can possibly accommodate seniors or single person households for any extended period of time especially

$4.90 Issue 93

Vol.13 No.3 17 March 2014

March 21, 2014

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales has described the proposed boarding house at Ferry Rd, Ettalong, as inappropriate, following further submissions by the applicant.

Sales Manager: Val Bridge Robert Sheild

Welfare Services

Crisis Services and Helplines

Peninsula

yong Regional Chronicle and the Australian Reptile Park are giving two readers the chance to win a family pass to the park valued at $75.

Family and Relationships

Animal Rescue

Edition 339

Chance to Win!

Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton speaking at the rally

the Wyong Shire

Australia’s No.1 monthly traditional and contemporary folk, blues, roots, alternative, bluegrass and world music and dance magazine

WWW.TRADANDNOW.COM

Rates from less than $2 a day!

Advertise in a Ducks Crossing publication for maximum exposure at a realistic price. Multiple booking and multiple publication discounts apply to all display advertisements. Enjoy the beneﬁts of being in a well-read publication with relevant news content. Contact us now for more information or visit our website.

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@duckscrossing.org - Website: www.duckscrossing.org

www.wyongnews.org

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 - P3 3

News

Seventy written submissions objecting to rehabilitation facility ertini Estate in the Yarramalong Valley, where a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility has been proposed utilising existing buildings on the site, has been sold for $3.6 million.

Formerly owned by Sydney developer, Albert Bertini, the property was purchased recently by an American group, The Association for Better Living and Education Inc (ABLE). This is the company responsible for lodging the development application for the rehabilitation centre and is wholly owned by the Church of Scientology. The application has caused a storm of protest with Yarramalong Valley residents rallying at a spill over meeting in the Yarramalong Hall and another at a nearby property, followed up by over 70 written submissions lodged with Wyong Council opposing the proposed development. Ya r r a m a l o n g Community Action Group chairman Mr Ron Lee said the angry residents want council to reject the application on the grounds that a drug and alcohol facility is totally

out-of-character and unsuited to the area; it does not conform to the rural residential zoning; there are undeniable access problems; there are flood prone sections in the Bertini Estate affecting buildings in the DA; and there is already a substantial drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility in the Wyong Shire at Dooralong operating with Government licences and regular Health Department audits. In their written submissions, the residents and their town planning and legal advisors claim the proposed development: is a threat to the peace, beauty and environment of their valley; is a high risk security hazard with unpredictable patients being treated and housed close to neighbouring properties and streets and free to wander in and out of the grounds at will; is an unacceptably intense commercial use of a residential property with 50 or

more addicts, staff and trainees occupying the premises full time; presents a danger of waste and sewage runoff into the Wyong River, the source of most of the Central Coasts’ water supply; will have, of necessity, the grounds and buildings floodlit like a stadium every night as a security measure; and will operate without any Health Department supervision. Mr Lee said the DA was lodged with Wyong Council last October but there is still no firm date for the application to be determined. “When the application was lodged, ABLE held a conditional contract and simply put down a holding deposit which was fully refundable if the DA was rejected, allowing the applicant to withdraw with minimal financial loss. “However, without waiting for council’s decision, the American company has decided to waive the condition and buy the property

The existing guest house which would be used as one of the accomodation buildings

outright. “Some residents are suspicious of this action and the speed at which the ABLE group moved to finalise the purchase. “Why would ABLE commit to spending $3.6 million before receiving the results of its development application? “Why is ABLE so confident its DA will be successful?” Mr Lee added that another matter of concern was that

the development application included a number of buildings and structures constructed by the previous owner without council building approval. “Some residents claim it was a calculated move to increase the volume and density of accommodation with a long term view of attracting a corporate buyer like ABLE. “While Mr Bertini erected some of these buildings and structures without seeking council

approval and has benefited enormously from them in the $3.6 million sale, the people of Yarramalong have been left with the stress and anxiety of a potentially dangerous drug and alcohol rehab centre within close proximity to nearby houses and streets with all the security problems that go with it,” Mr. Lee said. Media release, 16 Mar 2014 Ron Lee, Yarramalong Community Action Group

g D n ra g o n i k o m S When you need us! Ph 0424 202 560 or 4358 1957

We pick up anything that’s too big for your car SAVE TIME AND MONEY DRIVER AND TRUCK FROM $30

• Furniture • Electrical Goods • Landscape Requirements • Auction Items • Machinery • Building Materials • Party Hire Equipment • Pets • Garden Waste • Garbage • Laundry

CASH PAID FOR GOOD QUALITY SWORDS, KNIVES [not kitchen] WAR & MOVIE MEMORABILIA Shop 12 Ebbtide Mall - 150 The Entrance Road - The Entrance

4333 8555

News

P4 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014

Unfulﬁlled Bluetongue brewery promises leave rate payers short changed yong Council’s mayor and general manager met with Carlton and United Breweries (CUB) managing director of supply, Mr Grant Teck and other executives on Thursday, March 6, to discuss the future of the Bluetongue Brewery.

Council delegated authority to mayor Cr Doug Eaton and general manager Mr Michael Whittaker to negotiate with CUB in relation to this with the aim of retaining local jobs and the economic beneﬁt originally envisioned when the original brewery was proposed and ﬁnancially supported by both council and the state government. Council put to CUB that it had a moral, if not legal, obligation to recompense council and the community for some millions of dollars in subsidies that were given by council and the state government to assist in the establishment of the brewery.

“At that time, we were promised an iconic brewery that would brew 100 million litres of beer per annum at full production, employ 400 staff and include a signiﬁcant tourist element of cafe, beer tastings and tours,” said mayor Cr Eaton. “Sadly these promises were never fulﬁlled with limited production, just 60 staff and no tourism, and now the factory is to close after just four years. “CUB acknowledged the community concerns. “Discussion then focused on a possible reuse of the factory as a water bottling plant. “CUB did not rule out this future use but said at this stage they did not

have a detailed list of plant to be removed. “Accordingly the feasibility of a bottling plant could not be ascertained at this time. “CUB agreed to a meeting in late June on site to further explore this proposal,” said mayor Cr Eaton. Cr Bob Graham spoke at Wyong Council’s meeting on Wednesday, March 12, and said: “This is a sad time for us because it was a big hoo-ha when it was ﬁrst opened and when we turned the ﬁrst sod.” Wyong Council agenda 1.5, 12 Mar 2014 Email, 12 Mar 2014 Wyong Council media Kaitlin Watts, 12 Mar 2014

Community Access Edition 337

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

Peninsula Community Access 17 February 2014

Edition 337

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

Peninsula Community Access 3 March 2014

draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Wyong Council and Wyong Coal Pty Ltd has gone on public exhibition, outlining almost $20 million in public beneﬁts which would be provided if the NSW Government approves the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

Wyong Council is not the consent authority for the project, and has consistently opposed the development on the basis of its potential impact on the water supply catchment. However, if the project is given the green light by the NSW Government, the VPA would commit Wyong Coal to providing a monetary contribution towards the cost of key community infrastructure over the next three

decades. Council’s director of property and economic development Jari Ihalainen said it was important for the community to consider the draft VPA even if they are opposed to the coal mine. “Wyong Council is on the public record opposing the development of Wallarah 2 with two previous submissions expressing our concerns about water

supply security. “But given that we’re not in control of the decision, we want to make sure that if it proceeds, the residents of Wyong will not be burdened with the bill for infrastructure improvements. “The VPA sets out that infrastructure delivered as part of this agreement would be owned by council on completion.” Media release, 14 Mar 2014 Wyong Council Media

Funding received for Lakes ﬂood study yong Council will receive $60,000 for ﬂoodplain management, as announced by Environment Minister Ms Robyn Parker and Member for Wyong Mr Darren Webber on Tuesday, March 11.

Mr Webber said Wyong Council would use the funds to undertake a ﬂood study for various suburbs surrounding Tuggerah Lakes. “The ﬂood study will include catchments in the suburbs of Wyongah, Gorokan, Lake Haven,

Charmhaven, San Remo, Buff Point, Budgewoi, Halekulani, Lake Munmorah, Noraville, Toukley and Norah Head,” Mr Webber said. “Wyong Shire Council currently has minimal information on ﬂooding in these catchments and

the ﬂood study of these catchments will enable informed decisions to be made for existing and potential future developments.” Media release, 11 Mar 2014 Jim Lloyd, ofﬁce of Darren Webber MP

INSTEP FOOTWEAR

A Peninsula Peninsula newspaper newspaper A with in-depth in-depth with Peninsula area area news! news! Peninsula Peninsula

Wallarah 2 planning agreement on exhibition

Edition 339

Ladies Casuals $69.95

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

17 March 2014

New ferry timetable starts The inaugural ferry trip of the new Ettalong to Wagstaffe timetable took place last month on Monday, January 6. Some residents travelled over on earlier ferries, while others took the 10:50am from Wagstaffe to have a coffee at Ettalong and return on the inaugural departure at 12:20pm. Others took advantage of the departure at 4:20pm having enjoyed the movies at Cinema Paradiso. The inaugural trip was celebrated with balloons, tinsel, and much hilarity with bystanders joining in the fun, according to Ms Peta Colebatch from the Wagstaffe-Killcare Community Association. She said that the new service was the result of years of lobbying, starting in 2010. The two return trips per day have allowed residents to visit medical services, enjoy the pictures and wider shopping facilities at Ettalong and Umina, she said. Newsletter, 2 Feb 2014 Peta Colebatch, Wagstaffe-Killcare Community Association

An artist’s impression of the proposed boarding house

Hundreds object to boarding house proposal Hundreds of submissions have been lodged against an application to build a $2.6 million boarding house and cafe at 302 Ocean View Rd, Ettalong.

Residents celebrate the inaugural ferry trip of the new Ettalong to Wagstaffe timetable

Push for NBN rollout on Peninsula The Central Coast Broadband Alliance will seek to have the NBN rollout continued on the Peninsula. It will make an appeal to the Minister for Communications Mr Malcolm Turnbull, local members of parliament and NSW Senators. The appeal, which was supported by 260 local businesses, organisations and individuals, argued that a continued rollout would be cheaper to implement and offer an excellent cost-beneﬁt analysis for the nation. The Peninsula, together with Wagstaffe, Killcare, Tascott and other areas on the Central Coast,

were slated to have their NBN connections constructed this year and next. However, post-election the NBNCo’s new review had pushed the roll out to 2019. Woy Woy was previously next cab off the rank, with plans to begin construction later this year, immediately after Tascott. As it stands these areas are now ﬁve years away. The group stresses that they are maintaining a constructive and positive approach. “We claim to have well-reasoned case that shows that it would be cheaper and easier to maintain the

NBN rollout here on the Peninsula as there are many locals currently geared up and installing in and around Gosford and Berkley Vale,” said Central Coast Broadband Alliance’s Mr David Abrahams. “We know the Peninsula and surrounding areas have old, highly stressed telephone and broadband infrastructure and it should be prioritised for the NBN upgrade. “If the area is to attract more high paid jobs, infrastructure is absolutely essential in this day and age. “The NBN infrastructure will also support a high rate of telecommuting and reduce the

dependence on overloaded rail and road networks. “One area that the NBN is already assisting with is inhome care by using so called tele-health initiatives that allow medical specialists to consult and - or monitor people in their homes when they are ill, disabled or frail. “Trials in Queensland have shown a signiﬁcant increase in the quality of home care and a reduction in the cost of delivery to state and local government,” said Mr Abrahams. Mr Abrahams said the appeal group has approached Member for Robertson Ms Lucy Wicks and is

hoping to convince her to go into bat for the Peninsula on this issue. “It is understood Ms Wicks is considering working with Erina Chamber to advance their roll out as previously published. “We think that the Peninsula is an equally important area for these telecommunications upgrades and the government’s new rollout plan of 2019 will be way too late for many. “No formal reply has yet been received by the Minister,” said Mr Abrahams. Media release, 13 Feb 2014 David Abrahams, Central Coast Broadband Alliance

THIS ISSUE contains 58 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

Many objections are based on rumours and fears that the boarding house would accommodate drug addicts, alcoholics and people released from prison. In answer to questions from Peninsula News, Gosford Council stated: “There is no evidence that the boarding house will be used as a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre or similar operation as has been suggested. “At this stage, council does not have information relating to the likely occupants of the boarding house. “The DA has been lodged under Division 3 of State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009. “Under the SEPP, there are no requirements in relation the occupants of the boarding house, other than that each room will be occupied by no more than two occupants. “There is no requirement for affordable rental, or for the boarding house to be operated by a social housing provider.”

The development would include a cafe and outdoor seating area and the boarding house which would include a manager’s residence at first and second floor levels and a trafficable roof area. A Statement of Environmental Effects, prepared on behalf of the applicant Simon and Betty Elias - ADG Architects, stated that “careful consideration has been given to the design and layout of the proposed development to ensure that the amenity of the surrounding area will not be compromised and that the work provides a high standard of redevelopment, compatible with and sympathetic to the existing and likely future built and natural environment”. The ground floor would see a cafe on the corner of Ocean View and Ferry Rds, a reception and manager’s office and car parking for 14 vehicles including one disabled space. The first floor would have 14 boarding rooms with individual balconies, each with a kitchenette and bathroom facilities, a common area, terrace and manager’s unit. The second floor would have 15 boarding rooms with balconies, kitchenette, bathroom, common area and terraces. Each room would have a floor

area of approximately 16 metres square excluding the kitchen and bathroom areas. The roof would have a clothes-drying area and recreation area. It would require the demolition of a single storey building comprising three retail tenancies and a cafe and covered courtyard area with a garage and shed structures at the rear along with a clad house. The site is zoned 3(a) Business General under the Gosford Planning Scheme Ordinance, and according to the Statement of Environmental Effects, the development is consistent with the objectives of the zone “in that the development will retain and relocate the retail and cafe components respectively which will continue to provide for the shopping and service needs of the community at a regional district and/or neighbourhood level”. Under the provisions of the Gosford LEP, the site is zoned B2 with which, according to the Statement, the proposed development is consistent in that “it provides opportunity for a broad range of services and facilities to serve the local population”. The statement also claims that the design of the proposed development has had

appropriate regard to crime prevention. “There are limited opportunities for antisocial behaviour within the development and it is likely that the proposed development will present a low crime risk.” It also states that the development is not contrary to the public interest. “The proposed development is consistent with the relevant objectives of the zone and will not have any significant impacts on the environment. “Furthermore, the development is such that it will attract customers to the area, increasing the potential for increased clientele for the existing businesses.” Gosford Council has received hundreds of submissions against the proposal with many stating that the boarding house would provide accommodation for drug addicts, alcoholics and people released from prison who have no accommodation. A submission by Helen and Kelvin Gullivar of Killcare stated that the application was “completely out of context with the area which has developed a delightful village atmosphere over recent years”. A submission by Ettalong resident Catherina Anderson also objected strongly to the

“disturbing news”. Ms Anderson’s submission said she was “shocked that anyone with any brains would decide to build such a facility in Ettalong”. “The boarding house, as I read, will be housed for drug addicts, alcoholics and jail releases. “How am I meant to feel with this kind of element and my three daughters; can you assure their safety?” Killcare resident Mr Robyn Wilmot also lodged an objection and said that Ettalong had a “complete lack of services for these type of people”. “Ettalong itself is a sleepy, quiet retirement-holiday area with only, as far as medical support is concerned, two pharmacies and two local doctors. “The Central Coast itself struggles to meet the heath needs of the general population, with an acute shortage of doctors and other health professionals in most suburbs.” The DA is still being assessed and is on public exhibition for community comment until Monday 3 March. Website, 27 Feb 2014 Development application 44920/2013, Gosford Council

THIS ISSUE contains 37 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

Residents opposed to the proposed boarding house

Chamber says boarding house is inappropriate at Ettalong The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales has described the proposed boarding house at Ferry Rd, Ettalong, as inappropriate, following further submissions by the applicant. “We are aware of comments by the applicant that they do not intend for the proposed boarding house to be used as a refuge or halfway house for welfare recipients,” said Mr Wales. “However, this would not preclude the development from being used for this purpose in the future or any subsequent owner utilising the boarding house for social housing. “It remains our position that boarding house accommodation should be located close to support services, social service infrastructure and major public transport nodes. “The applicant has also stated that the proposal will provide

THIS ISSUE contains 31 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

Good old fashioned service with a smile Shop 136 - Imperial Shopping Centre - Gosford - 4324 2264

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 - P5

Federal parliament hears of Kulnura centenary

New GoPro camera inspected

esidents of Kulnura joined together on Saturday, March 1, to celebrate the township’s 100th birthday.

Member for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara spoke in parliament about the celebrations. “The name Kulnura is of Aboriginal origin and it means ‘in sight of the sea’,” said Ms McNamara. “Situated in the mountains of the beautiful Wyong valleys, Kulnura offers some fantastic viewing areas of the sea and the coastline of Dobell. “Home to just over 500 people, the Kulnura community represents everything great about this wonderful nation of ours. “Kulnura illustrates

the diversity of Dobell, from our tourist destinations on the coast to Wyong valleys and to towns such as Kulnura that support small fruit and poultry industries. “In celebrating Kulnura’s 100th birthday, local residents both past and present, spent Saturday catching up and reﬂecting upon the rich history and the town’s uniqueness. “Fortunately, we have insight into Kulnura’s early days through the family history of Mr George T Hunt, an early settler on the mountain. “Mr Hunt’s family recalls that at the time

MYOB TRAINING Got a Business! Got MYOB! Got Questions! Bring Your Books & Bring Your Laptop!

of settlement, there was a strong support to call the town Passiflora, but Kulnura was eventually agreed upon. “I am advised that to this day, Kulnura is the only place in the world named Kulnura, something the local residents are fiercely proud of. “On Saturday, I was honoured to attend the celebrations and to learn of the town’s history and of residents, past and present. “I was fortunate enough to meet Mr Gibson, a long-term resident aged 93, who spoke of his primary school years at Kulnura. “It was also my honour to present the community with an Australian flag. “With over 200 people attending the celebrations, it is a testament to the richness of this small community for keeping their heritage alive,” said Ms McNamara. Transcript, 6 Mar 2014 Karen McNamara, Member for Dobell MP

The Entrance Business Centre 217 The Entrance Road The Entrance NSW 2261 TF: 1300 881 435 Computers available if required Enquire as to how to bring your ﬁle on USB… Email your expression of interest to joy@booksinamess.com.au

ember for Wyong Mr Darren Webber visited Marine Rescue Norah Head on Monday, March 10, to inspect the new GoPro camera ﬁtted to its rescue vessel as part of the NSW Government initiative to have all Marine vessels ﬁtted with these cameras for search and rescue purposes.

The footage may assist in the investigations by police and may be used as vital evidence for the Coroner. The camera can also be used as a training aid so that video footage of local sea conditions, weather events or other incidents can be carefully analysed and reviewed. Mr Webber also took the opportunity, while visiting the base, to present the members with a new NSW State ﬂag Email, 11 Mar 2014 Jim Lloyd, ofﬁce of Darren Webber MP

$25 per hour – 7.00 – 9.00pm Every Monday Evening 20 Years’ Experience with Small Business Management Friendly Environment – Coffee Included!

Member for Wyong Mr Darren Webber presents new GoPro camera to Deputy Unit Commander Alan Bull and Skipper Ross Iserief at the Marine Rescue Norah Head Base

Let your community know about: • • • • • •

Weddings Engagements Special Birthdays Special Anniversaries New Born Babies Special Achievements

Send a photo and details to: editorial@ editorial @duckscrossing.org

ADVERTISEMENT Authorised by Darren Webber MP, Shop 4, 142 Paciﬁc Highway, Wyong NSW 2259. Produced using parliamentary entitlements.

News

Darren

Webber MP Member for Wyong We can assist you with queries about the following State Government issues:

h h h h h h h

Health Education Transport Fair Trading Ageing and Disabilityy Community Servicess Police and Emergency ncy Services

h Public Housing h Main Roads h Anniversary & Birthday messages

Shop 4/142 Pacific Highway, Wyong 2259 For help with these or any other State Government issue, please contact me by

P: 4352 2711 or E: wyong@parliament.nsw.gov.au

News

P6 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014

$4,200 in Quarterly community community grants ward forums allocated introduced

yong Council has introduced quarterly Community Ward Forums to improve interaction and engagement with the community, starting from May this year. Shire.

Councillors and senior staff will attend the forums to consult directly with the community on issues important to them, with forums being held in Ward A and Ward B. Mayor Cr Doug Eaton said council wanted to get a diverse range of views and opinions from the broader community to help in decision making, and he believed the forums would provide an effective way to do that. The community will have an opportunity to

suggest topics for each forum, and the format will include a roadshow display on current issues and projects. “We are passionate about our community and about engaging with our residents to help us make good decisions for the future of everyone in the Shire,” he said. “I think the ﬁrst forums are likely to discuss things like recent studies into a proposed breakwall at The Entrance and Warnervale Town Centre.

“The process will be reviewed again in 12 months’ time to see how well it is working and if it can be further improved.” The new Community Ward Forum model streamlines the way people engage with and advise council, offering direct councillor representation and access to information as well as allowing councillors to highlight local and Shire wide issues. Media release, 7 Mar 2014 Wyong Council media

yong Council has allocated $4,220 in community grants to a range of local community organisations that operate in the Shire or provide a beneﬁt speciﬁcally to the residents of the

First Tumbi Scout Group has been allocated $1,300 to clean out its dam; Ourimbah United Football Club was allocated $990 to purchase a PA system; Wyong Family History Group was awarded $180 to cover the cost of rejuvenating an old and valuable atlas; Central Coast Lakes District Scouts was allocated $250 for maintenance to the Scouts Saltwater Creek Boatshed at Long

Jetty; Toowoon Bay Surf Life Saving club received $1,300 toward its 60th anniversary celebrations; and Street Rats Hotrod and Kustom Club received $200 to assist with the Hotrod and Kustom Car Show. Provision has been made in Council’s Annual Plan for each councillor to recommend to Council the donation of funds to individuals, local service, charitable or community

organisations. Each councillor is allocated a one tenth share of a total amount identiﬁed annually in Council’s Annual Plan. The amount allocated in the 2013-14 Annual Plan is $130,000 with a reallocation by council of an additional $20,000 at its meeting held on July 24 last year. Wyong Council agenda 5.1, 12 Mar 2014 Email, 12 Mar 2014 Wyong Council media

Fire hazard burn conducted in Bateau Bay yong Council, Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service are working together to reduce ﬁre hazards on a reserve between Premier Way and Morley Ave at Bateau Bay.

A hazard reduction burn was conducted by Fire and Rescue NSW at the reserve on Thursday, March 20. The burn covered an area that had not burned for over 30 years. Council’s director of property and economic

development Mr Jari Ihalainen said the burn followed a series of Asset Protection Zone (APZ) works undertaken by council using funds from the special rate variation (SRV). “This is important work,

requested by the Rural Fire Service, and will ensure fire hazards in this area are significantly reduced,” said Mr Ihalainen. “Council is using integrated weed control to maintain the fire breaks and we are cleaning up

Empire Bay SUPER SPECIALS!

the rubbish dumped in the reserve. “This has also made it easier to undertake drainage maintenance. “We will be erecting interpretive signage about the APZs over the coming months and improve access management to prevent illegal dumping and unauthorised use by motorcycles. “This is one of the ﬁrst

AVAILABLE IN-STORE NOW!

$ 64 ea

$ 50 ea

Arnott’s Family Assorted Biscuits 500g $0.60 per 100g

Sorbent Toilet Tissue 8 Pack $0.35 per 100 sheets

W383938

Offers available from Wednesday 19th to Tuesday 25th March 2014, unless sold out prior. Limit rights reserved. Offers exclusive to FoodWorks Empire Bay.

FoodWorks at BP Empire Bay 308 Empire Bay Drive, Empire Bay Ph: 4369 8760

Media release, 17 Mar 2014 Wyong Council Media

Peters Original Ice Cream 2l $0.14 per 100ml

$ 79 ea

Rexona Deodorant 150g Selected Varieties $2.47 per 100g

Campbell’s Country Ladle Soup 495-505g

Arnott’s Tim Tam, Choc Mint or Choc Royals 160-250g Selected Varieties

and offenders will be prosecuted. “Anyone caught illegally dumping in Wyong Shire faces ﬁnes of up to $1,500 for individuals and $5,000 for businesses plus clean-up costs,” said Mr Ihalainen. “Fines can be as much as $1 million if the matter goes to court.”

Abbott’s Village Bakery Bread 680850g

Cadbury Chocolate Favourites 300g $2.00 per 100g

A2 Full Cream, Light or No Fat Milk 2l

OPEN: 24HRS

reserves where we are using an improved integrated approach to ongoing reserve management. “It is part of a new model we are developing that will be progressively rolled out across our reserves to drive efﬁciencies in our bush ﬁre and natural reserve management programs.” Residents are reminded that dumping rubbish on reserves is illegal

Kitekat Cat Food 410g $0.29 per 100g

$ 20 ea

$ 70 ea

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 - P7

aerial masters THROUGHOUT the 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, martial arts techniques—tempered on the battleﬁeld—were incorporated into classical Chinese dance in what has become a vast repertoire of jumps, spins, and tumbling techniques. Over the centuries, each dynasty instilled profound wisdom and different aesthetic principles into classical Chinese dance. Today, authentic classical Chinese dance is one of the most demanding and expressive art forms in the world. Experience what dance can be. Watch videos about classical Chinese dance: ShenYun.com/dance

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY

“Elegant—very athletic and very skilled!” — John McColgan, Riverdance producer

“Demonstrating the highest realm in arts, Shen Yun inspires the performing arts world.” — Chi Cao, lead actor in Mao’s Last Dancer, and principal dancer with Birmingham Royal Ballet

DAZZLING ETHNIC AND FOLK DANCES. From snowcapped Tibetan peaks down to lush tropical valleys and open Mongolian grasslands, ethnic groups in and around China exhibit a rich array of traditions. Timeless ethnic and folk dances ﬁll Shen Yun’s stage with color and energy, as resounding drums awaken the dusty plateaus of the Middle Kingdom.

ShenYun.com

Find us on:

Presented by: Falun Dafa Associations of Australia

MELBOURNE: 27–30 MARCH, ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE

ADELAIDE: 19–21 APRIL, ADELAIDE FESTIVAL THEATRE

CANBERRA: 4–5 APRIL, CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE

GOLD COAST: 24–27 APRIL, THE ARTS CENTRE GOLD COAST

Tickets: 1300 182 183 I www.artscentremelbourne.com.au Tickets: (02) 6275 2700 I www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

SYDNEY:

15–17 APRIL SYDNEY THEATRE AT WALSH BAY Tickets: (02) 9250 1999 | www.sydneytheatre.org.au

Tickets: 13 12 46 I www.bass.net.au

Tickets: (07) 5588 4000 I theartscentregoldcoast.com.au

PERTH:

1–4 MAY, THE REGAL THEATRE

Tickets: 13 28 49 I ticketek.com.au

Forum

P8 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014

What is being done to curb SkyDive noise pollution?

wish to log the following breaches by SkyDive Sydney North Coast over the weekend of March 8 and 9.

The planes and drops are too numerous to record during the week, however, I feel that as our weekends are important and special to us as working families in the Wyong Shire, I need to voice my strongest objection to the absolute blatant disregard this company has for Wyong Shire Council and the residents within this shire. I would really appreciate indication as to what Wyong Shire Council is doing to monitor and stop this noise polluting business. As a resident who pays their rates on time and who is also operating a conforming business within the shire, I find it hard to believe that it is as easy as this to disregard all recommendations and proceed with court activity. This weekend was obviously particularly busy for the business. There was nil variation in the flight paths and on certain flights they circled the area before finally dropping the noisy vile chutes, with screaming customers, that ripped open also causing excessive noise. As a family, we are sick of hearing them scream and then hear their conversations on the downward run.

Letters to the editor should be sent to: Wyong Regional Chronicle PO Box 1056 Gosford 2250 or editorial@wyongnews.org See Page 2 for contribution conditions

The plane drones, drones and drones and then it changes pitch when it is about to drop. Most early mornings it drops right above my home and all of the drops outside of the recommended times I have videoed. My family has a right to a life without the harassment of the continuous noise this company has brought to Wyong Shire. We have a right to live a life that is not mentally and emotionally draining and council has a right to help us live that life. As residents we have not been told of the court proceedings. We know nothing. There have been conversations that they are supposedly allowed to operate whenever they like while this is in court. Saturday, March 8:

operating times are 9am to 4pm. I have footage of chutes dropping at 8:20am after loud, loud and continuous circling. It goes on all day. Then there is a drop at 4:45 pm and another one at 5:36 pm. Each one of these drops outside the recommended times comes with a circling time of approximately 10 to 15 minutes. I have all of these drops on video. They scream, they yell as they drop and the chutes rip open. Sunday, March 9:– operating times are 10am to 3pm. What a joke; the ﬁrst plane started circling at 8:09am and dropped at 8:33am. Then another one at 9:30am; both before 10am and then the planes go all day. The ﬁnal insult is the continuation of the drops after 3pm. I videoed a drop at 4:21pm, another at 5:13pm, another at 6.01pm and then a drop at 6:35 pm with only three chutes. This is indicative of money grabbing tactics. The vans were heading

out again at 6:40pm and I can only assume that there was another drop after this one, however, as it was a Sunday night and we have a large family I was too busy and emotionally drained to contemplate their horrendous actions and concentrated on tending to my family. It is the constant noise and the no variation in the ﬂight paths. I have videoed all of the drops outside of the recommended hours by council. I want to know what is being done. I want to know how this can continue. I want to know about the court proceedings. This is unfair and a disgusting display by a business that has no regard for anyone but themselves. I want to know what money is coming into the community and I would like to know if there is going to be a cut in our rates for noise pollution. And lastly I can’t believe that tourists get into those death trap vans to travel to Warnervale. The one with the Queensland plates has no left tail light and plenty of rust to boot. Something needs to be done. Email, 10 Mar 2014 Cherie Torpy, South Tacoma

Autumn Fashions for the Mature Woman Bev Benson Fashions offer a wide selection of Fashions for all ages, but specialise in providing classic, affordable fashion for the Mature Woman. We stock Slade, Black Pepper, Jillian, Ricki Renee, Maglia, Kita Ku, Bluebells just to name a few. All major cards accepted and Lay By welcome.

Proper scientiﬁc analysis should be by scientists not committees r Chris Hartcher (‘Let the Assessment commission decide’, Wyong Regional Chronicle, March 7) assures us that he is committed to the protection of the Central Coast water catchment.

This protection will be best achieved, he asserts, by proper scientific analysis, resulting from consideration by a Planning Assessment Committee. We might note that, at the time before the last election when he donned the “Water not Coal” shirt, he believed, with his leader, that mining in our water catchment should be prevented - “No ifs, no buts, no maybes”. Now he believes in a scientific examination to be made by a committee. The trouble with committees is that they can readily be stacked to come up with any desired response. I have no wish to reflect in any way upon the integrity of any member of the current Planning Assessment Committee. I do, however, believe that if a scientific analysis is needed, the analysis should be made by those whose profession is science - including environmental science, not by a committee selected by politicians or

February 12, 2014

Your independent local newspaper

aterfront dining and shopping, along with new apartments and jobs, are the future of Gosford’s waterfront under plans ﬁnalised by the NSW Government on Monday, February 10.

Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Mr Brad Hazzard with Member for Gosford Mr Chris Holstein at the announcement

osford Council has welcomed several major announcements for the Gosford Waterfront that will drive the rejuvenation of the Gosford CBD, with beneﬁts to be felt across the entire LGA.

Fashions for the Mature Woman

163 Mann St - Gosford - 4324 9260 www.bevbensonfashions.com

Issue 76

Waterfront dining and shopping is the future for Gosford

Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Mr Brad Hazzard has declared an area of the waterfront a State Signiﬁcant Site (SSS), an announcement which recognises the site as being of major importance to regional development. On the back of this announcement, Member for Gosford Mr Chris Holstein has conﬁrmed that the gazettal of the citywide Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2014 will be imminent. This is expected to simplify planning processes across the LGA. Further support for development in the city has come in the form of an announcement by Member for Robertson Ms Lucy Wicks that a federal government agency would be relocated to the Gosford CBD, bringing with it local economic and employment opportunities.

Gosford mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna said the announcements were a major win for the local community. “Development of the waterfront will see positive ﬂow-on effects for our region, enhancing employment and recreation opportunities while also encouraging visitors to our area. “Council has worked together with the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC) in submitting the proposal for a SSS, which was guided by feedback from our local community. “With the SSS in place, the CCRDC can now initiate the ﬁrst stages of the redevelopment of the Gosford Public School site. “Council is supportive of the proposed multi staged development as it will allow each stage to be managed

in consultation with those involved and the broader community,” mayor Cr McKinna said. Gosford Council general manager Mr Paul Anderson said council welcomed the support from all levels of government in positioning Gosford as the capital of the Central Coast. “Declaring the Gosford Waterfront Precinct a SSS is further support from the State Government to position Gosford City as the capital of the Central Coast. “This classiﬁcation will assist in promoting appropriate development along the waterfront site; stimulating investment in new commercial and retail uses. “The commitment to relocate a federal government agency demonstrates the united vision of all levels of government for the

redevelopment of Gosford,” Mr Anderson said. Mr Anderson added that now is the time to seize the opportunity to reconnect the city with our picturesque waterfront. “These announcements, along with a newly gazetted LEP mean that a number of key factors are now in place to instigate real change in our region. “Council has been proactive about stimulating business and economic activity in the area and has also gone out for Expressions of Interest for use of land along the waterfront not included within the boundaries of the SSS. “I am excited to see these tangible steps being made toward the redevelopment of the Gosford Waterfront in support of our work to restore investor conﬁdence in our city,” Mr Anderson said. Media release, 10 Feb 2014 Gosford Council Media

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Mr Brad Hazzard said the NSW Government has approved the rezoning of 9.9ha on Gosford’s waterfront by the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC) to allow: a combination of commercial, residential, hotel and conference facilities stimulating commercial activity and creating up to 2,000 new jobs; new regional community facilities (including a proposed Regional Performing Arts Centre and Conservatorium); public spaces and recreational areas and; new waterside restaurants and retail facilities on an expanded Breakwater. “This is great news for the revitalisation of Gosford’s waterfront and will help boost the Central Coast’s economy by acting as a catalyst for the renewal of the Gosford CBD,” Mr Hazzard said. “As a further bonus, by creating facilities and public spaces that build communities, it will draw more visitors to the area.” Mr Hazzard said the plans effectively split the State Signiﬁcant Site into

FREE

Ph: 4325 7369

Council welcomes waterfront announcements

Show your Seniors Card to receive 10% off all New Season Fashions. Offer ends 23rd March 2014

Bev Benson Fashions

Email, 8 Mar 2014 James Thomson, Dooralong Valley

A free newspaper with in-depth Gosford Local Government Area news!

FREE

SENIORS WEEK SPECIAL

public servants. Planning assessment committees may come and go. What doesn’t change is the problem of what do we do for drinking water in the worst case scenario that our freshwater aquifers are contaminated by mining activities. Mr Hartcher is particularly short of answers to all sorts of questions. I wish that I could believe that he or his “scientiﬁc committee” has an answer to this one. I guess that I liked the answer he gave when he wore his red shirt better than the answer he gave in response to inquiries from the Wyong Regional Chronicle reporter.

a number of new zones, allowing residential and commercial development on the current Gosford Public School site, retail and commercial activities on an expanded Breakwater and public recreation. Minister for the Central Coast Michael Gallacher said CCRDC had signiﬁcantly revised earlier plans to redevelop the waterfront after taking on board community concerns raised during public exhibition. “These new plans ensure public space is protected and new buildings on the school site are properly scaled to minimise the impact on water views,” Mr Gallacher said. Member for Gosford Mr Chris Holstein said the community would continue to have a say in the redevelopment of the waterfront as development applications would need to be lodged with Gosford Council. View further information on the rezoning of the Gosford waterfront at www. ccrdc.nsw.gov.au. Media release, 10 Feb 2014 Chris Holstein, Member for Gosford

February 26, 2014

Your independent local newspaper

Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 77

March 12, 2014

Local members withdraw from NSW Parliamentary Liberal Party T

he Member for Terrigal Mr Chris Hartcher, the Member for The Entrance Mr Chris Spence and the Member for Wyong Mr Darren Webber have all voluntarily withdrawn from the NSW Parliamentary Liberal Party until the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) proceedings relating to them are determined. The members are still members of Parliament and the Liberal Party, however, they have resigned from the Liberal Parliamentary Party meaning they will now sit on the cross benches with any independents present. The ICAC is investigating allegations of whether corrupt conduct occurred between April 2009 and April 2012, where certain members of parliament, including Mr Hartcher, Mr Webber and Mr Spence, and others are alleged to have corruptly solicited, received and concealed payments from various sources in return for certain members of parliament agreeing to favour the interests of those responsible for the payments. ICAC is also investigating whether between December 2010 and November 2011, certain members of parliament, including Mr Hartcher, Mr Webber and Mr Spence, and others, solicited, received and failed to disclose political donations from companies, including prohibited donors, contrary to the Election Funding, Expenditure and Disclosures Act 1981

Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 78

Camp Quoll members say no to expansion O

and whether Eightbyﬁve, a business operated by Timothy Koelma, Mr Hartcher’s former senior advisor, and Australian Water Holdings Pty Ltd, through its CEO Mr Nicholas Di Girolamo, (currently a director on the board of the State Water Corporation) entered into an agreement whereby Australian Water Holdings Pty Ltd made regular payments to Eightbyﬁve, purportedly for the provision of media, public relations and other services and advice, in return for which Mr Hartcher favoured the interests of Australian Water Holdings Pty Ltd. As part of its investigation, the ICAC will hold a public inquiry starting on Monday, April 28, at Level 7, 133 Castlereagh St, Sydney. Mr Hartcher was contacted for comment but declined to comment on the matter. Media release, 19 Feb 2014 Alicia McCumstie, Liberal Party of Australia Kaitlin Watts, 19 Feb 2014 Website, 19 Feb 2014 Roy Waldon, Solicitor to the Commission, ICAC

Your independent local newspaper

EPA should come clean T

he Community Environment Network (CEN) has corrected claims made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that only 555,616 tonnes of waste were dumped at Mangrove Mountain.

was removed by the EPA, this allowed the excess dumping to occur through to the present time,” said Mr Asquith. “The EPA should come clean and tell the full story of who authorised the excess dumping, why the limit was removed and where the excess dumping in excess of the consent conditions came from. “Locals have been complaining about excess dumping for some time, but their complaints have been ignored by the EPA,” said Mr Asquith. Media release, 7 Mar 2014 John Asquith, CEN

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 - P9

How does purchasing a brewery ﬁt within Council’s Charter?

t is with disbelief that I read Wyong Council is considering the purchase of a brewery.

It is only 12 months ago that I received letters from council advising of the parlous state of affairs and, now with State Government approval, our rates have increased to overcome their ﬁnancial difﬁculties. The Local Government Act provides a council may invest money that is not required by the council for any other purpose. I understand council is shedding jobs and reducing its community activities, such as precinct committees and child-care centres. Is it the case that our increased rates have now provided the council with a surplus of funds to undertake such activity, while simultaneously reducing its community involvement? I am also at a loss to understand how the purchase of this brewery

accords with council’s Charter under the Act. Rather than big-noting himself with grandiose schemes, it would be preferable if our mayor complied with Council’s Charter; to exercise community leadership, inform the community how such a proposal is part of council’s business, how it would be funded, and the advantages and disadvantages. As a creature of the state government, it begs the question: “Does our state government or our local members of parliament have any view at all on council’s proposal, in light of the recent signiﬁcant rate increases?” Email, 12 Mar 2014 Trevor Drake, Long Jetty

Forum

Carbon tax costs greatly exaggerated yong Regional Chronicle (March 7, page 5) contained a transcript of a speech by Member for Dobell, Ms Karen McNamara, in which she blamed an increase in the cost of electricity due to the carbon tax for causing more businesses to shut their doors in Dobell than anywhere else in NSW.

Businesses in Dobell would have faced similar price increases to those in other electorates in NSW, so it would seem more likely that there were simply more marginal businesses in Dobell than elsewhere. As the effect of the carbon price makes up only 8% of the retail price of electricity and electricity represents less than 10% of the turnover of most businesses, the carbon price costs only about 0.8% of turnover. It would be a very marginal business that is forced to close because of a 0.8% cost increase. There are over two million businesses operating in Australia and historically about 15% of them close down each year.

More than 548,000 businesses closed in the two years to June 30, 2009, during the GFC period but this was fewer than the 585,000 that closed in the two years to June 30, 2005, under the Howard/Costello government (calculated from Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 8165.0). Ms McNamara claims 412,000 small business jobs were lost nationally during the six years of the previous government, but does not mention the number of jobs created. Total employment increased by 1,145,000 between August 2007 and August 2013 (ABS 6202.0). Having quoted the

412,000 lost jobs and 3,980 employing businesses in Dobell, presumably to indicate the size of the problem, Ms McNamara repeated the only example she appears to have – one business which claims not to have been able to employ one additional worker because of the increased cost of gas and electricity as a result of the carbon tax. This example implies that the carbon tax component is equivalent to the cost of the additional employee. According to ABS 6302.0, average full-

time adult ordinary time earnings were $1,437 per week in November 2013. That is $74,727 per year plus super plus workers comp insurance etc. So let’s be conservative and say this extra employee was only going to cost $50,000 per year. If this equals the cost of the carbon tax and carbon tax is 8% of the energy bill, it means that this small business has a total energy bill of $625,000 per year (or $52,000 per month). Hardly a typical small business. Email, 14 Mar 2014 Kevin Carson, Chain Valley Bay

A LITTLE HARD OF HEARING? AT ALLIED HEARING WE PROVIDE TO YOU....

!,,)%$

(%!2).'

)MPROVE HEARING IMPROVE LIFESTYLE

Aged T-Bone BBQ S Sausages Bangalow and New $7.99kg Sweet Pork or 2kg for $14 York Steak

Scottish fare is back Again! Sponsored by

• Haggis • Black Pudding • Tattie Scones • Square Sausages • FREE HEARING TESTS FOR SENIORS • FREE DIGITAL HEARING AIDS FOR APPROVED PENSIONERS • FREE HEARING AID TRIALS • SHOP AROUND OUR PRICES WONT BE BEATEN

ACCREDITED PROVIDER OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES * CONDITIONS APPLY

CONTACT YOUR CLOSEST OFFICE NOW WOY WOY - SHOP 10 CNR VICTORIA & GEORGE ST

PHONE 43442566 THE ENTRANCE - SHOP 12 LAKESIDE SHOPPING CENTRE THE ENTRANCE RD

PHONE 43346233

• Scottish Pies • White Pudding

Peter Hutton & Son Family Butchers 3/46 Picnic Parade | Ettalong Beach

4341 2293

Business

P10 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014

Commercial precinct proposed opposite hospital

yong Council has endorsed a proposal to rezone land located opposite Wyong Hospital to permit establishment of a commercial precinct.

The land around Craigie Ave, which is bordered by the Paciﬁc Hwy and Pearce and Wiowera Rds, was previously zoned as an Investigation Precinct. The new zoning allows building height bonuses to encourage health or health-related services in keeping with the existing health precinct. Council previously supported the rezoning of this site subject to a range of investigations, consultation and the meeting of statutory requirements which have now been met and addressed, and now seeks a formal amendment

of the Wyong Local Environmental Plan (LEP) to include the rezoning. At council’s meeting of Wednesday, March 12, mayor Cr Doug Eaton said the proposal had been over 10 years in the making. “Attracting quality health services to our Shire is an important priority for council and this decision is going to be a signiﬁcant and practical step in making that happen. “By 2030, we expect to see an extra 70,000 people call Wyong Shire home, particularly in the northern end, and we know that if we don’t expand our

health services we will not be able to keep up with expected demand,” said mayor Cr Eaton. Cr Adam Troy said he was “very excited” about the decision. “I believe it is a much needed area to complement the precinct.” Cr Greg Best agreed and said it was “great to see it ﬁnally happening; it’s been about 10 years”. Wyong Council agenda 2.1, 12 Mar 2014 Email, 12 Mar 2014 Wyong Council media Kaitlin Watts, 12 Mar 2014

Do beautiful business with Books Alive Bookkeeping and Xero Contact Kathy-maree on 0418 110 786 or email kathy-maree@booksalivebookkeeping.com

www.booksalivebookkeeping.com

$286,000 in export development grants our businesses in the Dobell electorate have been allocated funding as part of the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme.

$286,893 has been allocated from the program across Dobell to support local businesses including: the Palm Beach Motor Yacht company at Berkeley Vale, clothing manufacturer Floodlight distributions at Tuggerah and primary producers Sprint Horticulture and The Paradise Seed Company. Federal Member for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara said the Government was also seeking to enhance the way the EMDG scheme is administered after it was cut by $25 million a year by the previous Labor government. New legislation has been introduced into the parliament to give effect to the changes which will

also make the scheme more accessible to businesses looking to export. “Businesses looking to pursue their ﬁrst export sales will now be eligible for a $5,000 grant, if they spend $15,000 on export promotion, whereas previously they would have had to spend a minimum of $20,000 to be eligible,” Ms McNamara said. “Established exporters will also now be eligible for up to eight grants under the program whereas previously the maximum number was seven. “These grants assist small and medium sized businesses to enter new export markets and become self-sustaining exporters and employers. “We want to make

Dobell one of the best places to start and grow a business and these grants help in that pursuit.” Ms McNamara said the Government was delivering on its election commitment to support small business by driving growth and innovation. “Small business is the engine room of the Central Coast economy, small business is collectively the largest employer on the Central Coast. “Export markets are our future and these grants will help small businesses access markets they may not have thought possible,” Ms McNamara concluded. Media release, 14 Mar 2014 Luke Nayna, ofﬁce of Karen McNamara MP

Council owned land in Warnervale to become residential lots development application is currently being prepared to subdivide a 3.7ha site of Wyong Council-owned land at Warnervale, south of Sparks Rd and east of the Lakes Grammar School.

The site has previously been identiﬁed as surplus to current and future operational requirements and is currently vacant and costs $1,000 per year to maintain. Subject to the subdivision, the land would be sold providing signiﬁcant income that could be reinvested through Council’s Property Reserve. The subdivision and sale would see up to 40 residential lots of mixed sizes, created in the vicinity

of the Warnervale Town Centre. A central access road and small park are included within the subdivision, located within Precinct 7a. Mayor Cr Doug Eaton said the project was a perfect example of council using its extensive land holdings to work harder for our community. Cr Luke Nayna said: “We need affordable housing on the Central Coast and one of the ways to achieve that is to increase the supply of (land for) housing.”

“We are doing this in a sensible way. “The more land out there, the cheaper and more affordable it will be. “It’s a modest way to start and I think it is the right way to go about it,” said Cr Nayna. Planning for this project is expected to be completed by the third quarter of this year. Wyong Council agenda 4.1, 12 Mar 2014 Email, 12 Mar 2014 Wyong Council media Kaitlin Watts, 12 Mar 2014

Serviced Copying & Printing Minimum Transaction $2

Our Price

A4 Black & White A4 Black & White A4 Black & White A4 Black & White

1 - 10 11 - 100 101 - 1000 1001 - 5000

pages pages pages pages

20c per side 15c per side 10c per side 8c per side

A4 Colour A4 Colour A4 Colour A4 Colour

1 - 50 51 - 200 201 - 500 501+

pages pages pages

$1 per side 80c per side 70c per side 65c per side

A3 Mono A3 Mono

1 - 10 11 - 100

pages pages

35c per side 20c per side

A3 Colour

$1.40 per side

Faxing

$1 per page

120c Erina St Gosford NSW - 4325 7369

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 - P11

Waste Processing Solutions P/L win major tender

Lake Haven family lounge facility refurbished

yong Council has accepted a tender from Waste Processing Solutions Pty Ltd for $1.27 million over three years, to empty ﬁve sludge lagoons from council’s water and sewage treatment plants at Mannering Park, Gwandalan, Toukley and Mardi.

Council has ﬁve sewerage treatment plants (STP) with sludge lagoons, with Wyong South Treatment Plant having a permanent onsite sludge dewatering plant and Toukley Treatment Plant having a semi-permanent mobile dewatering plant that is near the end of its economic life. Gwandalan, Mannering Park and Charmhaven Sewage Treatment Plants currently have no permanent onsite dewatering facility with these plants having previously been serviced by adhoc contracts since 2002. Prior to 2001, two council owned mobile belt presses were used at Charmhaven, Mannering Park, Gwandalan and Toukley STPs and worked continuously to desludge the lagoons at the respective plants, with one plant being semi permanently located and operating at Toukley STP. With the continually increasing load on the plants, the rate of sludge production from the treatment processes reached a point where it exceeded the capacity of the mobile belt presses. As a result, the sludge lagoons at Charmhaven and Mannering Park STPs were approaching full capacity. The report to council by council’s technical ofﬁcer, assets and capital works, Mr Stephen Mauger stated that a number of options were considered to empty the

sludge lagoons. “These options included relocating council’s second mobile belt press from Toukley STP to service the other plants, transporting the sludge from Charmhaven, Mannering Park and Gwandalan STP to Wyong South STP for dewatering at the permanent sludge dewatering facility there, or the engagement of a specialist dewatering contractor to dewater the lagoons. “Regardless of the method of dewatering, all dewatered sludge cake would be transported to the Buttonderry Waste Disposal Depot for composting under existing contract arrangements with Australian Native Landscapes or an alternate provider. “Analysis of the various options indicated that the most cost effective means of emptying the sludge lagoons was to engage a specialist dewatering contractor. “An initial contract for emptying only one lagoon was let in February 2002 as a trial. “Subject to the satisfactory performance of that contract, a future contract would then be considered for the emptying of the second lagoon. “The result of this analysis was discussed with all council treatment plant staff including those currently operating

the sludge dewatering equipment as part of their employment. “All staff agreed with the proposal to engage sludge dewatering contractors where the use of specialised equipment offered a significant financial advantage over council’s current operational methods. “Following the Expressions of Interest and Tendering procedures for the appropriate sludge dewatering contractors, sludge lagoon No1 at Charmhaven STP was desludged in February 2002. “Due to the success of the initial contract, tenders were awarded in 2003, 2006, 2009 and 2011 for dewatering of sludge lagoons at Charmhaven, Mannering Park and Gwandalan STP’s. Mardi Water Treatment Plant was commissioned in 1982. “It has two sludge lagoons that receive the backwash water from the filters whereby sludge accumulates in the lagoons and the decanted water is pumped back to Mardi Dam.” Mr Mauger stated that these lagoons were nearing full capacity and needed dewatering as they had never previously been dewatered. Wyong Council agenda 3.2, 12 Mar 2014 Email, 12 Mar 2014 Wyong Council media

Business

ake Haven Shopping Centre has completed a major refurbishment and enlargement of its family lounge facility.

The upgrade is part of an ongoing program of improvements and enhancements at the centre. The family lounge upgrade includes new fittings, floor surfaces, finishes, lighting and a featured wall treatment, as well as an improved family play area.

Lake Haven Centre manager Mr Mike Cochrane said: “Our new family lounge looks and feels fantastic and the new layout is functional for families who are visiting the centre with small children.” “The family lounge complements the food court and restrooms

which were upgraded in 2012 and has brought an improved level of comfort and experience for our customers at Lake Haven.” Media release, 10 Mar 2014 Mike Cochrane, Lake Haven Shopping Centre

314 WEST STREET UMINA! 4341 2223 - www.seasprayjewellery.com.au - Like Us on Facebook and receive great rewards!

New Arrivals... Time Teachers & RM Williams Watches Back to School watches 100m Water Resistant

We buy GOLD! CASH PAID!

Proud Sponsors of

The Number 1 Independent Jewellery Manufacturer on the Peninsular - Your Diamond & Jewellery Specialist - Open 7 days

Registered National Council Jewellery Valuer

Health

P12 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 P

Nareen Terrace expansion Wyong Hospital lead design team appointed ofﬁcially opened

ealth Minister Ms Jillian Skinner has welcomed the appointment of the lead design team which will commence planning the Wyong Hospital redevelopment.

Member for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara, addresses the crowd Photo: C Gleisner

seniors grows,” mayor Cr Eaton said. The Central Coast is a popular retirement destination that currently has the third largest population of people aged over 60 years in NSW. “This will only increase as more people retire to our beautiful area from Sydney and other places,” mayor Cr Eaton said. “Our staff are working

WEIGHT LOSS Safe Easy Effective Including free MP3 files

Call NOW

1300 440 163

www.thejuliemacpractice.com.au

H Y PN OS I S

redevelopment of Wyong Hospital.” “It is what the community wants and it will also provide the staff with first-class facilities in which to work.” The Central Coast Local Health District Board will determine details of the redevelopment based on future clinical needs of Wyong Hospital. The planning process will involve consultation with local staff, clinicians and management to identify the key clinical priorities. It is anticipated the first stage of planning will be finalised by late 2014.

closely with the business and care communities to encourage more seniors’ living and aged care development and associated services, to Media release, 18 Mar 2014 support this growing group Liz Hannan, ofﬁce of of residents in Wyong Jillian Skinner Shire. “With funding from Local Government NSW and the NSW Ofﬁce for the Aging, we are also working with Gosford City Council on a Central Coast Positive Aging Strategy,” he said. “This will provide direction for planning he students of Gorokan Public School fundraised on Friday, and service provision to March 14, for Year 3 student Dezarae Jones who has just returned support older residents to school after receiving chemotherapy treatment for cancer. in our community to The event provided an Camp Quality, the show all day, students lead healthy, active and opportunity for Dezarae’s children’s cancer charity, were able to raise funds independent lives.” peers to raise money performed a puppet show themselves. Media release, 12 Mar 2014 through social media and, through donations Media release, 11 Mar 2014 Wyong Council Media or directly through the tied to the school’s Crazy Jesmond Zammit, Gorokan school. Hair Day which was on

Gorokan PS students raise funds

Public School

Henry Kendall Aged Care

s Respite Care (for emergencies, carer relief and short term stays)

s en aid M

s Sunlit rooms leading to secure garden areas

ad Ro sh u Br

Maidens Brush

Cary Str eet

Henry P arry

Drive

s Beautiful spacious gardens within a bush land setting North Gosford

Making every day the best it can be FOR MORE INFORMATION: Freecall 1800 243 2273 | www.allity.com.au

Holgate Reserve

Road

Kalawarr a Road

s Long term residential care available

Wyoming Reserve

Warrawi lla Road

Wyoming

s Care Solutions with qualified staff in a home like setting

Birch Ro ad

The expansion sees an extra 64 villas available for seniors in the Hamlyn Terrace area, including 30 rental homes for seniors under the Federal Government’s National Rental Affordability Scheme. “This is the kind of quality development we are going to need much more of on the Central Coast as our population of

and Nationals understand the Central Coast is a diverse, rapidly-growing community. “It is vital that we plan state-of-the-art health care services to serve it now and into the future,” she said. The redevelopment of Wyong Hospital will prioritise a new emergency department, increased operating theatre and ICU/ HDU capacity, expand mental health services, add additional inpatient beds for medical and provide acute services, clinical and non-clinical support, services and car parking. Minister for the Central Coast Mr Michael Gallacher said: “I am very pleased to mark another important step on the journey towards the

Pacific Highway

n expansion of Nareen Terrace, UnitingCare’s independent living village on the Central Coast was ofﬁcially opened by Wyong Shire mayor Cr Doug Eaton on Wednesday, March 12.

The state department of health’s infrastructure section announced the team which comprises McConnel Smith and Johnson (architect), Appian (project manager) and MBM Surveyors (cost manager). The appointment follows the NSW Government announcement in December of $800,000 to progress planning for the redevelopment. “It was just a few months ago that our Government announced $800,000 to progress planning of the redevelopment of Wyong Hospital, as well as a further $1 million to plan the redevelopment of Gosford Hospital,” Ms Skinner said. “The NSW Liberal

FIND US Henry Kendall Aged Care Kalawarra Road Wyoming, NSW 2250 Tel: (02) 4323 1922

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 21, 2014 - P13 3

Medicare ofﬁces to close on Saturdays edicare ofﬁces in the region will no longer be open on Saturdays with the changes beginning in Shortland on Saturday, March 22.

Federal Member for Shortland Ms Jill Hall said she had been notiﬁed on Wednesday, March 19, that Medicare ofﬁces around the country would no longer open on Saturdays. “This is very short notice as the government is announcing the change just three days out from when it will begin,” she said. “This will also be very inconvenient for many people. “Many people work full time during the week

so are unable to reach a Medicare ofﬁce except on Saturdays,” she said. “To close the Saturday service is to lock people out of Medicare – which is very unfair and inconsiderate. “I am very disappointed in this decision. “I am also very concerned that this is yet another cut to public services by the Coalition Government.” Media release, 19 Mar 2014 Lisa McDermott, ofﬁce of Jill Hall MP

Free Communication for Carers course free two day Communication for Carers course will be held on Wednesday, March 26, and Thursday, March 27, at Vinnie’s Regional Ofﬁce in Wyong.

UnitingCare Mental Health education and training ofﬁcer Ms Tanya Doyle said that the course aimed to assist carers and family members to meet the challenges of communicating with someone who has a mental illness. Topics to be covered include communication styles, goals of communication, communication partners, components of communication, impact of mental illness on communication,

empathic communication, boundaries and managing conﬂict. Participants can expect to obtain a number of key skills including active listening, empathy, verbal and non-verbal communication, constructive expression of feelings, appropriate boundary setting and effective communication with health professionals. Media release, 6 Mar 2014 Tanya Doyle, UnitingCare Mental Health

Health

Iris Foundation founders awarded N S W Community Service Award has been presented to two community members, Ms Bev Baldwin and Ms Dawn Hooper, to recognise their contribution made to the community, particularly for their work in establishing the Iris Foundation.

“These Community Service Awards are very prestigious, with only two awards being allocated in each NSW State electorate each year,” said Member for Wyong Mr Darren Webber who presented the awards on Tuesday, March 11. In 2003, Bev’s 21-yearold grand-daughter tragically committed suicide after struggling with depression. After working through the trauma of this loss, Bev said she wanted to do something positive. Bev and Dawn, friends for over 30 years, decided to take action. After a period of grieving and contemplation about how to turn such a tragedy into something positive, they started the Iris Foundation. “Iris” is the vision of light and the name commemorates their mothers who unselﬁshly nurtured their children

For FITNESS, FUN and FRIENDSHIP GOSFORD SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS hold a intermediate class every Wednesday from 7 to 10pm at the Church of Christ Hall, Henry Parry Drive, Wyoming

$5 per Night Come and join in on the fun!