Issue 86 of Wyong Regional Chronicle by Central Coast Newspapers

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February 16, 2016

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Issue 86

Mehan outraged at delay in storm damage repair esidents of the Bateau Bay area are still struggling to repair their homes following the violent hail storm that struck the area on September 17 last year.

Member for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan MP, visited residents of Lancaster Pde who have not yet moved back into their units and have been living in a variety of rental and shared accommodation since the September hail storm. The storm caused ceilings to collapse and extensive water damage to the properties with most units in Lancaster Gardens being completely gutted due to damage. Ms Barbara Champley said she had been living in her unit for the past 25 years and had never lodged an insurance claim in her life. “I do own my unit but I don’t know what I have got now, only an empty shell,” she said. “I was down at The Entrance that day and someone rang and said you’d better come home. “When I got to Bateau Bay the hail was like snow. “When I put the key in the door, there was water pouring through the ceiling, through the light fittings, so I went to get help, but by the time I got back, the whole ceiling fell in, and after that, everyone’s ceilings

David Mehan MP along with Barbara Champley and Phillip and Patricia Cupples view the damage

seemed to do the same,” Ms Champley recalled. According to Ms Champley, the insurer was “very slow from the beginning”. At first the residents were “stunned” and not sure who to turn to for help. Between September and December they mainly dealt with the

strata management company, according to Ms Champley. She initially stayed with her sister, then in a motel, then an apartment at The Entrance, and since Christmas she has been staying with a friend. The insurance company has helped with living costs, but at nearly 80 years of age, Ms

Champley wants to return to her own home as soon as possible, “I’ve lost nearly everything that I owned,” she said. “Before Christmas we had a meeting with everyone and the insurance company came out and it all looked very promising, then we had workmen cleaning out

the mould, but since then, nothing has happened. “There is no indication of when the work will be done. “I do have contents insurance as well, but that is with a different company, but it is not much use yet, because I haven’t got anywhere to put anything. “I have hardly even

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Media release, Feb 11, 2016 David Mehan, member for The Entrance Interview, Feb 12, 2016 Barbara Champley, Bateau Bay

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Issue 124

EPA accused of failure to regulate landfill run-off

Edition 385

January 19, 2016

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Storm water run-off from Mangrove Mountain landﬁll site into Stringybark Creek catchment on Wednesday, January 6

he NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has continued to fail to meet community expectations over the environmental management of the waste landﬁll site at Mangrove Mountain golf course according to Mountain Districts Association spokesperson, Dr Stephen Goodwin.

“Following the widely reported ‘uncontrolled discharge’ alleged to have occurred from the landﬁll site in 2015 and that subsequently appeared in Ourimbah Creek some 12 km downstream, the EPA said that it was conducting a criminal investigation,” Dr Goodwin said. “This has still not been resolved,” he said. “As a result of the discharge and following repeated requests from members of the community, in late September, some two months after the event, the EPA had science staff from the Ofﬁce of Environment and Heritage sample the water system in Ourimbah Creek and sources. “They also took foliage and sediment samples from

the area of the discharge. “A week later, the EPA waste environment officer for Gosford LGA sampled water and sediment from the various ponds and accumulated water within the landfill site.” Dr Goodwin said when he enquired about the results in January 2016, the environment officer told him the EPA was still trying to identify a correct method of analysis for the foliage. “As for the results from the water and sediment sampled from inside the landfill site, he couldn’t disclose these without seeking approval. “This is over three months after the samples were taken,” Dr Goodwin said. In late November 2016,

members of Mountain Districts Association met with Mr Scott MacDonald, parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast at the golf course. “During the conversation, a water cart appeared on the landfill site spraying discoloured water up into the air over the surface of the landfill,” according to Dr Goodwin. Dr Goodwin said periods of extreme rainfall, such as the 240 ml recorded by the official Bureau of Meteorology station on Bloodtree Oval at Mangrove over four days from January 4 to 7, resulted in significant run-off at the landfill. “When extreme rainfall events occur, such as recently occurred, any contaminants from such

Storm water run-off from Mangrove Mountain landﬁll from two directions meeting in gully leading into Stringybark Creek catchment on Wednesday, January 6

water will be washed off the surface and into watercourses and creek catchments,” he said. “Even EPA site inspections are worthless.” Following a recent community enquiry, Mr Rob Hogan, EPA director waste and resource recovery, reported that, following an EPA inspection of the Verde Terra facility (Mangrove Mountain landfill) on January 7, the EPA had found no storm water discharges at the time of the inspection. Dr Goodwin said “This is only part of the story. “The day before the EPA visit, storm water discharge was noted gushing down a gully from the landfill site through private property in the direction of Hallards Creek catchment. “It was also freely flowing under the boundary fence of the licensed area and downhill along a public fire trail towards the same catchment.

“There was also cloudy, foamy water gushing down another gully running alongside the boundary fence between the landfill site and national park. “When traced back, it was seen to be coming from within the landfill site. “This water met up with a separate flow of water running down from the landfill site from a different direction. “This joined up to rush down the gully running alongside the golf course fifth hole in the direction of the Stringybark Creek catchment. “Both Hallards and Stringybark Creeks flow into Ourimbah Creek, which feeds in to the Central Coast water supply. “Has the EPA sampled the run-off as it left the landfill site in the north east corner and if not, why not? “Clearly after such a major storm event, there is an expectation that there

may well be signiﬁcant run-off that could be contaminated. “Central Coast residents should be concerned at the inability of the Mangrove Mountain golf course waste landﬁll to adequately contain storm water, and to isolate leachate from other water sources,” Dr Goodwin said. “Mountain Districts Association is aware of the expectation of an 18 hole golf course from this activity, but clearly the emphasis is now on receiving large quantities of waste from Sydney and less about a new golf course and the failure of the EPA to regulate this, with any vestige of environmental safety, is a major concern for us all.” Media release Jan 12, 2016 Stephen Goodwin, Mountain Districts Association Landfill Subcommittee

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Mr Noble said he expected the parties to exchange contracts for the sale of the land within the next two or three weeks. Mr Noble said the contract is currently under construction. Mr Noble said he understood a Heads of Agreement to be an agreement to enter into a contract. “It sets out the key principles and terms around which the contract is likely to be based. “It is like a guiding document and expression of intent.” In this instance, Mr Noble said he could confirm that the Heads of Agreement was a written document signed by both Wyong Council and the Australia China Theme Park Pty Ltd. “Based on the discussions we have had with the company and the fact they have been prepared to sign a heads of

An artists impression

agreement as a precursor, I have no reason to believe they will not go ahead and sign a contract with us despite the delays that have occurred in the past,” Mr Noble said. “One of the aims that council had when it considered the letter received from the company early last November was to work with the company towards the possible creation of a new contract with new terms and conditions that would be more favourable and less risky and more on commercial terms than what had been the case previously,” Mr Noble said. “I can’t tell you about terms or money just yet, that will come out in due

course, but I can say that the proposed terms will be on a proper commercial basis and will be more favourable to council and the community and so in that way they will meet the requirements of the council when they looked at it in November,” he said. When asked if he, therefore, considered the previous contract to be deficient or less favourable to council and the community, Mr Noble said: “I would never say that. “I am not going to say anything about what may or may not have been wrong with the previous contract but I can say the new heads of agreement will result in a better

outcome, should it all proceed.” Mr Noble said he could not commit to a date for settlement of the transaction because those details were “all commercial in confidence at the moment but the proposed terms set out in the heads of agreement will be on normal commercial arrangements.’ In the event that ACTP Pty Ltd signs the contract and pays Wyong Council $10 million plus GST for the Warnervale land, Mr Noble said there were other steps the developer would have to go through before the Chinese theme park could be built. “There is a gateway approval by Department

of Planning that addresses rezoning matters so there is an in principle approval for matters to deal with rezoning subject to conditions. “Specifically the Department of Planning identified that there actually wasn’t a need to change the zoning itself but, subject to the company doing certain things and proposing those to the council, then there is a way suggested by the Department of Planning to allow what the company is wanting by making changes to the schedules in the Wyong LEP for that particular land.” The DA has already been received by Wyong Council for the first stage

of the development. “The proposed temple and ancillary buildings are covered in the initial DA and so yes there will be staging involved,” he said. According to Mr Noble, once stage one made its way through council processes, it would still need approval from the Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) because of the amounts of money involved (more than $20 million). “It will absolutely require JRPP approval; it is a very big development.” ACTP have re-engaged its key consultants, Cardno, who have been instructed to move forward as quickly as possible with the rezoning of the Chinese Theme Park land. ACTP has paid Wyong Council $100,000 out of the $10 million plus GST it owes to secure ownership of the land at Warnervale slated for the development of its $500 million Chinese theme park. A Wyong Council media release followed two recent articles in the Fairfax and Murdoch press pointing out “nonpayment and delays” had plagued the proposed development.

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Media release, Jan 15, 2016 Wyong Council media Emails, Jan 18, 2016 Interview, Jan 18, 2016 Rob Noble, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Gosford Council may be in breach of the Local Government Act and State planning policy in its management and proposed sale of council-owned land on the Peninsula, according to an East Gosford environmental consultant.

more significant.” Mr Conacher said the parcels of community land on the Peninsula that have been earmarked for reclassification and sale by Gosford Council should have management plans in accordance with the Local Government Act. Under the Act, all land owned by a local council that is classified as community land must have a management plan prepared for it. Mr Conacher said: “There was a plan of management for community land, natural areas and bushland prepared by council in 2002. “Under the Local Government Act, council can prepare a generic plan of management but must identify what land is included in it,” he said. According to Mr Conacher, the Gosford Council document has a schedule attached which lists which parcels of land were included. “None of the Peninsula lots appears to be on the schedule,” he said. All councils in NSW had to classify all their land holdings when the Act came into law in 1993. “All land had to be identified, even if it was a 1920 subdivision or a person may have gifted land and expect council to look after it as a reserve for the sake of that family, a management plan had to be put

in place,” he said. According to the Local Government Act, land owned by a council must be classified as either operational or community, Mr Conacher said. Operational land included any land used for the general operations of council and includes depots, roads, and other infrastructure. Community land was defined as land that was not operational and was generally public open spaces such as parks, reserves and conservation areas. Community land could come into council ownership in a variety of ways: Crown land transferred to council by the State government; land set aside for community use as part of a development approval; or bequeathed to council from families, individuals or community organisations. According to Mr Conacher, if Gosford Council failed to develop management plans for the Peninsula’s reserves, it could be in breach of the Local Government Act. Mr Conacher said that in reclassifying reserves the council had to pay regard to State Environmental Planning Policy 19 (SEPP 19), which covered the management of bushland in urban areas.

He said SEPP19 spelt out what Gosford Council must do if it intended to reclassify community bushland with characteristics of remnant vegetation. According to Mr Conacher, SEPP19 stated that councils should give priority to retaining bushland unless it can prove a significant social, economic or environmental benefit for reclassifying it. Its over-arching objective is to “protect and preserve bushland within urban areas… to protect remnants of plant communities which were once characteristic of land; to retain bushland in parcels of a size and configuration which will enable the existing plants and animal communities to survive in the long term”, he said. He said Gosford Council may also be exposing itself to compensation claims if it had acquired land at a price based on its unimproved value and then by rezoning, perhaps for residential development, its value per hectare is increased. He said the original vendor may have a case for being compensated for that valuation difference. Mr Conacher also questioned why Gosford Council has launched its land sale strategy now and not undertaken a review of its land holdings when the Local Environment Plan was drafted in

Issue 125

Andrew Church is Citizen of the Year

Edition 386

February 2, 2016

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2013. “The Gosford LEP was a 15year process. They had four or five goes at it so surely reviewing community holdings would have been part of that process,” he said. SEPP 19 instructs councils that, when drafting an LEP, council should have regard to the priority of retaining bushland, he said. “Why wasn’t it identified that they needed for residential purposes?” He also questioned whether the resale of the reserves currently listed would be viable. “If you were a private developer wanting to develop those lands for residential development, you’d first have to apply for rezoning and you would have to find biodiversity offsets. “You would have to find land of a similar nature and similar locality at a ratio of 10 to one. “It is usually the person applying for the rezoning that has to find those offsets and that is why if Gosford Council goes ahead to sell those reserves the person buying the land could do their due diligence and may find requirements of the Local Government Act haven’t been met.” Interview, 20 Jan 2016 Phil Conacher, Conacher Consulting

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Surf live savers and ambulance ofﬁcers set up a triage in the car park at Avoca Beach to treat casualties on Australia Day

t least 20 people were knocked off their feet and smashed against rocks near the cliffs at the southern end of Avoca Beach at lunch time on Australia Day.

Two people with critical injuries needed to be transported to hospital and another ﬁve, also with critical injuries required ambulance attention. Director of life saving for Surf Life Saving Central Coast, Mr Brett Beswick, who was ﬁrst on the scene at Avoca, described the incident as “carnage”. Mr Beswick said the incident occurred about 100 metres around the corner from the southern end of Avoca Beach on the ocean side near the spot known locally as the “mermaid pools.” “Three families had come up from Sydney for the day, they were picnicking near the pine trees near the car park at the southern end of Avoca Beach but they decided to go for a walk to give their kids a play in the mermaid pools,” Mr Beswick said. According to Mr Beswick, Central Coast

beaches are currently experiencing what he described as a “long interval swell” due to the prevailing cyclonic conditions off the Queensland coast. This means the lull between sets of waves can be very long and conditions may look ﬂat for 15 minutes or more at a time. “When the wave does hit, it can be unusually powerful because it has such a long time for the energy and power to build up,” Mr Beswick said. The wave that struck at Avoca on Australia Day was strong enough to knock at least 20 people off their feet and towards the cliffs. Fortunately, none were pulled back into the sea, although rescue craft were launched from the beach and several surf life savers reached the area on their rescue boards. Mr Beswick said it was fortunate that the incident coincided with a life-saver

shift change, which meant there were more life savers on hand than at other times. “Five people needed to be carried out on stretchers,” he said. The person with the most critical injuries suffered a broken leg and arm, another had a broken ankle and a dislocated elbow and a third had a dislocated shoulder. Others were treated for serious cuts with one man requiring 30 stitches to his leg and a 10-year-old boy was treated for concussion. Mr Beswick said those who sustained the most serious injuries were aged from 30 to in their 60s. “The junior life savers who were just out of nippers and doing their ﬁrst season of patrols did an amazing job of caring for and bandaging those with minor injuries and just comforting the people who were in pain,” he said. “Other families having picnics at the beach gave

up their chairs and towels and helped to comfort people with injuries.” Ambulance crews came from Terrigal, Bateau Bay and Point Clare to assist. “We were just thankful everyone got to go home,” Mr Beswick said. “It could have been a lot worse, we were lucky none of the children was seriously injured and there were no spinal injuries,” he said. Mr Beswick said the lesson to the taken from the freak accident at Avoca was to “always respect the ocean and never turn your back on it. “Stand and watch for 15 to 20 minutes so you can assess conditions properly, it all comes down to respect,” he said. Mr Beswick said Australia Day is always one of the busiest days of the year on Central Coast beaches and patrols will continue until the ANZAC Day long weekend in April. Interview, Jan 27, 2016 Brett Beswick, Surf Life Saving Central Coast Jackie Pearson, journalist

The Roving Rubies at their recent bikini pool party to celebrate Edna Fowler’s 92nd birthday

Edna celebrates 92nd birthday Cr Lloyd Taylor with residents who dug the channel on Australia Day

Media Release, Jan 25, 2016 Gosford City Council media

Cr Lloyd Taylor and residents with shovels in hand

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oung and old turned out on Australia Day at The Entrance to dig a channel at least one-metre wide from the ocean to the lake.

Wyong councillor Lloyd Taylor said: “It demonstrates the level of community commitment to get the channel opened and a break-wall built. “We have all had enough of talk; now we want action,” Cr Taylor said. “Before the last election, we had support from the local member, Mr Chris Spence and the Liberal Party, but that all seems to have faded,” he said.

“All too often we have flooding around the lake edge and opening the mouth of the channel will reduce the likelihood of the flooding we saw as recently as January of this year. “The community know what they want and we, as their representatives, need to support them in this. “Our lifestyle revolves around the lakes, foreshore and waterways, so it is only logical that

the better the health of the lakes, the better our lifestyle. “What we saw on Australia Day was the silent majority coming out in force for a solution to save Tuggerah lakes. “I call on the rest of the community to stand up and support this community initiative,” he said. Media release, Jan 27, 2016 Lloyd Taylor, Save Tuggerah Lakes Party

A local group of the Red Hat Society has celebrated the 92nd birthday of one of its members. The Roving Rubies celebrated the birthday of Ms Edna Fowler from Woy Woy on January 26. Edna has been a member of the Roving Rubies for the past seven years and officially turned 92 on January 31, although the Roving Rubies celebrated a few days earlier with a bikini pool party. She was recognised in the group as a talented cake decorator and for dress making, including hand smocking, and special dresses for deceased babies. More than 40 Roving Rubies attended the pool party at a member’s home for Edna’s

birthday. The founder of the group, Ms Marlene Klintworth, also known as Queen Lilimarlene, said she formed the group when she first moved to the Central Coast as a way of meeting people. There were now 130 Roving Rubies, women between the ages of 45 and 92 who wanted to “learn how to grow old disgracefully”. Edna is an excellent example of the benefits of being a Roving Ruby, said Ms Klintworth. She still lives in her own home and is fiercely independent. She walks without a stick, still has excellent hearing, plays lawn bowls and has a golf handicap of 22. Her three tips for longevity are healthy living, happy hour and

good friends. A little sip of brandy to ward off infection or a case of the nerves is a good practice, according to Edna. The Roving Rubies have so far knitted 267 rugs to foster children on the Central Coast. “Through Wesley Mission we have just about given every foster child on the Central Coast a rug,” Ms Klintworth said. The Roving Rubies have regular mufti Mondays for knitting and talking and also have lunch meetings. Ms Klintworth said new members were welcome. For more information email rovingrubies@optusnet.com.au Interview, 28 Jan 2016 Marlene Klintworth, Roving Rubies

See inside for full GosBlues Festival programme

Ms Edna Fowler, 92, from Woy Woy

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he Mountain D i s t r i c t s Association has called on NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird to hold a Commission of Inquiry into the Mangrove Mountain Golf Course Remodelling and Landﬁll Project.

ight of Gosford City’s ﬁnest citizens and community groups have been recognised at the annual Australia Day Community Awards on January 25, held for the ﬁrst time during special Australia Day eve celebrations in Gosford. community and nation, it’s also the perfect occasion to recognise these residents who are inspirational role models for the entire community,” he said. A Gosford City Australia Day Community Award is the highest civic award that a resident or community group can receive on a local level. Gosford City councillor, and chair of the Gosford City Australia Day Committee, Cr Jim Macfadyen said each of the awards recipients had tirelessly served the Gosford community. “Thanks to the efforts of these eight leading citizens and groups, our community is a more inclusive and better connected place for us all to live in,” Cr Macfadyen added. “Each award recipient prides themselves on getting involved in the community and they deserve to be publicly commended for their great work. “I would also like to once again thank our judging panel which is always faced with some very tough decisions,” he said.

Local military historian Mr Andrew Church was named 2016 Citizen of the Year for his tireless work to create a unique cultural and historical landmark for the Gosford City community. Opened to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing in 2015, Mr Church’s Central Coast Interactive War Exhibit at Gosford is the only heritage venue of its kind on the Central Coast and the largest in New South Wales. An active member of many community groups, including the Gosford RSL Club, Gosford Chamber of Commerce and Gosford RSL Re-enactment Group, Andrew is committed to keeping the ANZAC spirit alive in our community. Gosford mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna said the awards would make sure Australia Day is extra special for Mr Church and the other award recipients. “I’m always impressed by the calibre of the Gosford City residents who receive our Australia Day Community Awards, and this year is no different,” Cr McKinna said. “Not only is this time of year a great chance for us to come together as a

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Issue 126

Commission of Inquiry called for before Coast water supply is irreparably damaged

Issue 85

Community members dig channel

Jumbuck Reserve in Jumbuck Close, Woy Woy

Gosford Council land sale may breach Act, says consultant

THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Carnage at Avoca Beach

Mr Phil Conacher of Conacher Consulting said that it appeared that the council-owned blocks on the Peninsula were not covered by a management plan, despite the Local Government Act requiring such a plan. He said the council had also not followed the requirements of State Environmental Planning Policy 19 in its proposed sale of the land. Mr Conacher said Jumbuck Close reserve was a “classic example” of how, without a management plan in place or adherence to SEPP19, council could be damaging any endangered ecological species or remnant flora present on the site. “The appointment of councillors requires them to follow the rules and act just like we have to: follow traffic rules or get fined if we don’t,” he said. “They have possibly destroyed a lot of other vegetation on the Jumbuck Close site and others that could have made those sites

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January 28, 2016 25 January 2016

Chinese theme park Heads of Agreement signed y o n g C o u n c i l ’s acting CEO, Mr Rob Noble has confirmed that a new Heads of Agreement has been signed between the council and the Australia China Theme Park (ACTP) Pty Ltd concerning the $10 million purchase of land at Warnervale for ACTP’s proposed Chinese theme park.

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Issue 84

Ms Claire Podlich, president of Mountain Districts Association, wrote to Mr Baird on January 29 to formally request the Commission of Inquiry. The Association’s request for a Commission of Inquiry documents, in great detail, the history of the Mangrove Mountain landfill since it was first approved in the 1990s through to the current suspension of the operator’s licence. The EPA is currently working its way through the process of setting new licensing conditions that will allow the operator to resume dumping waste at the landfill. “We are concerned that both Gosford Council and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) have failed to exercise their respective statutory responsibilities regarding the Mangrove Mountain Memorial Golf Course Remodelling and Landfill Project,” Ms Podlich said. The letter to Mr Baird cited “27 unanswered questions relating to EPA licensing breaches and 12 issues of concern with Gosford Council actions resulting in a tangled and complex web of mismanagement and deliberate avoidance of legal responsibility. “The failure of both the EPA and Gosford Council has put the Central Coast water supply at great risk of serious contamination that could threaten the health of the Central Coast population,” Ms Podlich said in her letter to the premier. The letter to Mr Baird alleged that there had been: “Unlawful excavation into the sandstone groundwater aquifers

Mountain Districts Association has questioned the management of leachate ponds including those in the photo and run off

resulting in interference with groundwater flow and the high risk of contamination of ground water with potential contaminants such as arsenic and hexavalent chromium presenting a high future risk to the regional population.” It argued that another reason a Commission of Inquiry was needed was that: “Despite community concerns and despite concerns of officers of Gosford Council over time, the complicit involvement of Gosford Council with the landfill operator in a mutual agreement to add a further 1.317 million cubic metres of waste to the site in 2014 and of Gosford Council with the EPA in negotiating the terms of a revised licence 11395 with the operator to regulate this waste volume. “This will result in a total volume of waste 25 times the original approved volume.

“This waste will require the installation of a six million litre capacity leachate holding pond,” the letter contends. Ms Podlich’s letter was also critical of the agreement to approve the establishment of a new excavation pit for Virgin Excavated Natural Material (VENM) up to 955,448 cubic metres as part of the 2014 Land and Environment Court deal. “The excavated VENM will expand…will then occupy a volume of 1.137 million cubic metres outside of the regulated area and an undisclosed volume within the regulated area,” the letter said. “The landﬁll project is situated on top of a watercourse that is in the catchment of the Ourimbah Creek system. “This system is a major source of fresh water for the Central Coast.”

Ms Podlich’s letter and extensive supporting documents from the Mountain Districts Association contend that surface run off from the landﬁll runs into the creek system in two directions, via Hallards Creek and via Stringy Bark Creek. Wyong Council directly pumps out of Ourimbah Creek into Mardi Dam that supplies Wyong residents with potable water. Gosford Council pumps from Mardi Dam into Mangrove Creek Dam that supplies Gosford residents with potable water. The Mountain Districts Association has documented what it considers to be “unacceptable outcomes” that have occurred at the landﬁll site between 1998 and 2016. For instance, its submission states that 10 times the volume of waste

permitted under the original Gosford Council development consent (DA 23042/1998) was allowed to be deposited in the landfill licensed area under Environment Protection Licence 11395 between 1998 and 2012. The association’s call for a Commission of Inquiry is also based on what it considers to be a “lack of confirmed evidence that the original licensed landfill site was lined with an impervious membrane to prevent “leachate” (liquid leaking from the waste held within the landfill) from reaching groundwater aquifers. It also contends that an original pond used to capture leachate was actually buried (submerged) under the licensed landfill mass. Systems to manage leachate and storm water runoff that were designed for the original approved volume

of waste are “manifestly incapable of dealing with present amounts of waste, particularly during periods of high rainfall,” the submission said. The 13-page letter from Ms Podlich to the NSW premier was supported by two extensive appendices. The first was a 54-page photographic dossier of water and leachate management issues at the Mangrove Mountain landfill following a major rain event in January 2016. The second appendix provided Mr Baird with 96 pages of information in support of the association’s call for a commission of inquiry. The Mangrove Districts Association has also sent the premier draft terms of reference for the Commission of Inquiry. It has also called for interim measures to be put in place while the veracity of its claims is assessed and responded to. “We request that no further action be undertaken or approval given with regard to Environment Protection License 11395 by officers of the EPA,” it said. In support of its requests, the Mountain Districts Association has written a summary of the actions of the EPA in relation to its administration of the licence issued to Verde Terra Pty Ltd that it argued would justify the extension of the current suspension of the company’s licence to dump at the Mangrove Mountain landfill. It has also written an extensive list of what it alleges are failures by Gosford Council reaching back to the original development application received in 1998 and working through to the Land and Environment Court orders and settlement offer negotiated in 2014. Letter and supporting documents, Jan 29, 2016 Claire Podlich, Mountain Districts Association Jackie Pearson, journalist

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

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February 16, 2016

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Issue 86

had any clothes. “I want the work to start, there are 14 units in our complex and the whole 14 are affected by this and we want some communication to know what is going on. I am feeling very down about it all,” she said. Mr Mehan said he had been working with the local community and the strata company to see works completed and residents moving back into their homes. Mr Mehan threatened to name and shame insurance companies that are not giving the storm damaged area the attention it deserves. “It has been four months since the September hail storm and locals are still struggling to have their homes repaired,” Mr Mehan said. “All of the residents of Lancaster Gardens were fully insured, yet they are still waiting for their insurance companies to begin work on their homes. “These houses have been sitting empty since David Mehan MP along with Barbara Champley and Phillip and Patricia Cupples view the damage September with major management Champley wants to return the mould, but since then, repairs yet to begin. seemed to do the same,” strata “The insurance company, according to to her own home as soon nothing has happened. Ms Champley recalled. as possible, “There is no indication companies need to According to Ms Ms Champley. clearly She initially stayed “I’ve lost nearly of when the work will be communicate Champley, the insurer with residents and begin was “very slow from the with her sister, then in a everything that I owned,” done. motel, then an apartment she said. “I do have contents fit outs on the houses so beginning”. “Before Christmas insurance as well, but these people can get back At first the residents at The Entrance, and since were “stunned” and not Christmas she has been we had a meeting that is with a different to living their lives.” with everyone and the company, but it is not sure who to turn to for staying with a friend. Media release, Feb 11, 2016 The insurance insurance company came much use yet, because I help. David Mehan, member for The Entrance Between September company has helped with out and it all looked very haven’t got anywhere to Interview, Feb 12, 2016 and December they living costs, but at nearly promising, then we had put anything. Barbara Champley, “I have hardly even mainly dealt with the 80 years of age, Ms workmen cleaning out Bateau Bay

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

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

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P3 3

News

Forgotten North residents vote to join Lake Macquarie Council

round 140 residents from Gwandalan and Summerland Point attended a meeting on Monday, February 8 to discuss a proposal to alter the boundary of Lake Macquarie Local Government

Area.

Member for Swansea, Ms Yasmin Catley was at the meeting. The proposal would see the suburbs of Gwandalan, Summerland Point, Mannering Park and Chain Valley Bay incorporated into Lake Macquarie City Council. “Right now in NSW, local councils are undergoing sweeping reforms with the Government’s council amalgamation process,” Ms Catley said. “The proposal to amalgamate Wyong Council and Gosford Council and the subsequent consultation process has left residents feeling voiceless and that is a real concern,” she said.

“These Northern Lakes suburbs have not had any real opportunity to express their views and have their concerns addressed. “When I talk to people, they tell me they are worried about representation, service delivery and feeling like the ‘forgotten north’. “I share their concerns,” she said. Ms Catley facilitated the meeting at the request of the Gwandalan and Summerland Point Peninsula Improvement Group (‘GASPPIG’), who wanted to gauge the community’s view on the proposal. Residents present at the meeting overwhelmingly supported the changing

of Lake Macquarie LGA boundaries to include their suburbs, Ms Catley said. “This meeting was the first in a series of community meetings, where I will be undertaking genuine consultation with residents about what they expect from their local council. “Any proposal to alter local government boundaries involves a long process. “These meetings are the first step in that process.” Miss Catley said. Media release, Feb 9, 2016 Yasmin Catley, member for Swansea

Meeting at Gwandalan to discuss moving northern suburbs to Lake Macquarie local government area

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P44 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

The Entrance Motor Registry to close he Entrance area will be left without a NSW service centre or motor registry as a result of a new service centre opening in Tuggerah in March, according to member for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan MP.

Mr Mehan said he has stepped up his campaign to save The Entrance Motor Registry after parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald conceded the registry would close. Mr Mehan is encouraging residents to send emails to the minister for finance, services and property, Mr Dominic Perrottet if they wish to oppose the motor registry closure. “Even with the provision of new Service NSW offices on the Central Coast, closure of The Entrance Motor Registry would mean a longer journey for many residents of the electorate and a loss of passing trade for businesses in The

Tip Top Bakeries to invest millions in Charmhaven site ver 100 new jobs will be created in the Wyong local government area in the coming years following Tip Top’s announcement of their purchase of an existing manufacturing site in Charmhaven.

O David Mehan outside The Entrance Motor Registry

Entrance township,” Mr Mehan said. “The minister has ignored petitions tabled in parliament regarding the close of other registry offices on the Central Coast, so people should let him know directly what they think about the proposed closure of The Entrance Motor Registry,” he said. “Right across the state, this government has been ignoring the community and shutting down local state government services,” Mr Mehan said. “Shutting down The

Entrance Motor Registry is a slap in the face to the local community and will deprive The Entrance of one its most heavily-used government agencies,” he said. “Taking more jobs out of The Entrance is not viable. “We have small businesses here who benefit from having the motor registry. “These motor registry employees are going to have to re-apply for their jobs and fight for them, or risk being left in the dust by this Liberal government.

“It’s just not fair. “We have elderly people here on restricted licenses and immobile people who shouldn’t have to travel to Tuggerah or Toukley to access government services. “If this government is so committed to servicing the people of the Central Coast, they should either leave the The Entrance Motor Registry as it is or build a new service centre in its place.” Media releases, Feb 1 and 4, 2016 David Mehan, member for The Entrance

Tip Top will invest millions in the refurbishment of the vacant 25,000sqm site to extend its bakery and distribution network. Mr Andrew Cummings, managing director of Tip Top Bakeries said, “At a time when so many food companies are consolidating and closing sites, we are delighted to be adding to our bakery network and working to fulfil our ambition to become the leading bakery company in Australia and New Zealand. “We investigated a number of sites in different locations and Wyong came up on top with the best business case for our needs,” Mr Cummings said. “Our economic development team has worked tirelessly with Tip

Top’s parent company, George Weston Foods, to manage planning issues for the site and facilitate the deal,” Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton OAM said. Mayor Eaton said that Council is now in a position to offer incentives to companies where jobs will be created in the Shire. “We will continue to focus on pursuing new jobs for Wyong under our Economic Development Strategy, and hope to make several other announcements in the near future,” he said. Tip Top has three other NSW facilities at Chullora, Ermington and Newcastle and 11 manufacturing plants across Australia. Media release, Feb 11, 2016 Alexis Carroll, Tip Top Media release, Feb 11, 2016 Wyong Council media Jasmine Gearie, journalist

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News

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P5 5

Wyong Grove acquisition in the hands of the Finance Minister he bid to acquire part of the former Wyong Grove Public School acquisition I think we to keep it in community hands is now at the mercy of the NSW are at the minister’s mercy and currently the finance minister, Mr Dominic Perrottet.

Wyong Council determined in December 2015 to seek permission from the NSW Government to move to compulsorily acquire parts of the Wyong Grove School site so it could continue to accommodate the Wyong Drama Group and other community organisations and

activities. The entire school site was sold by the Department of Education in October to a private developer for $4.45 million, even though Wyong Council had bid for the site and already expressed a desire to compulsorily acquire it. Prior to the sale by

auction, Wyong Council had spent $100,000 upgrading the facility in the belief it would remain in community hands. The current owner has also lodged a development proposal to rezone the whole site so it can be used for residential development. “In terms of the

minister has not been too merciful,” said Wyong’s mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM. “I am disgusted at the length of time and apparent indifference of the state government about the compulsory acquisition,” he said. Interview, Feb 12, 2016 Doug Eaton, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

Wyong Drama Group members protest the sale of the Grove

Community Environment Network Our Volunteers help to make the Central Coast a better place. The Community Environment Network relies on volunteers to carry out the work that we do for our environment and communities on the Central Coast. Why not join us! It doesn’t matter what skills you have or how much time you can give - you can contribute in some way to improving your local area. Numerous studies show that volunteering is good for us too. It makes most of us healthier and happier. Volunteering offers many benefits, including opportunities to gain new skills and knowledge, enjoy a sense of achievement and fulfilment, enjoy better physical and mental health, connect to your community and meet new people and make new friends. Here are just some of the ways that you can volunteer for the environment: • What’s the water like in your local creek? - become a Waterwatch volunteer. We will train you to test the water. Our Waterwatch volunteers play an important role in monitoring water quality and have often identified problems that we work with local Councils to fix. • Want to get your hands dirty? - then help at the Wildplant Community Nursery. This is located at Wyong and grows local native plants. We need helpers for tasks like potting up plants, watering and propagating seed. • Interested in the marine environment? - then why not volunteer at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre at Terrigal. Volunteers help to keep the centre open and play a role in showing visitors around our displays. A little knowledge about the marine environment is helpful but not essential. We will train you! • Join your nearest Bushcare or Landcare group - often these groups only meet a couple of hours each month but they do important work in removing weeds and improving habitat for our wildlife. • Passionate about an issue - such as Climate Change - then contact us to find out if there is a group working on this? • Want to contribute specialist skills or expertise? - we welcome your help! There is something for everyone - so please visit www.cen.org.au to download a Volunteer Expression of Interest form and send it to us. We will be having Volunteer Information Sessions and will let you know when the next one is scheduled.

Climate Change: Action beyond Paris Agreement It is now 25 years since the first global reports warned us that greenhouse gas emissions were a serious problem. This is not some minor issue that will be easy to overcome. It is a massive juggernaut that will career faster and faster, crashing through human society with drastic consequences. We have already committed our children to a degrading planet with compounding problems. If we don’t stop emitting greenhouse gases (particularly CO2) they or their children may not have a livable planet at all. The tragedy is that we can do something to stop it. It is very simple – we must give up fossil fuels. We know how to do this. Solar, wind and other renewable energy sources are feasible and not overly expensive. It is not too late. In fact there is a driving moral duty to reduce emissions (and thus the impacts) as quickly as possible. The longer we wait, the harder it will become; until it is no longer possible to

the world. We have wide expanses of open land where solar energy would be ideal and a massive market to our north who need energy. Unfortunately, the agreement in Paris is not binding and the voluntary commitments made by all nations are not enough. Our ambition for reducing emissions must be increased to avoid the worst that is to come. There is no future in those who continue to deny this crisis. We must have leaders who are willing to make the sacrifices needed to reduce emissions. No-one can expect us to stop emissions immediately, but it is economically possible to replace our electricity system with currently available renewable energy plants in 10 years. Replacement of petrol would likely take longer. With an election pending this year, we should be asking candidates of all colours how soon they plan to transition to a low carbon economy. Richard Weller, Convenor, CEN Climate Future Committee

SUPPORTING WILDLIFE THROUGH IMPROVING HABITAT

What are you waiting for?.... Come on and join the team! Jane Smith, CEO, Community Environment Network

recover the Earth to a condition we have enjoyed through 5000 years of settled civilization. Every additional tonne emitted today will drive further warming over this and later centuries. Besides what we can do individually to reduce our fossil fuel emissions, it falls on our governments to put in place plans to build new renewable energy plants so that we can close down fossil fuels. Because we have delayed for 25 years, there is now no other way to do this than actively closing down our fossil fuel plants. Our government must: • Declare a climate emergency. • Ban any new fossil fuel industry or infrastructure. • Ban any new coal mines. • Set in place a plan to build new renewable generation capacity sufficient to close down our coal plants. • Found and organize our future carbon free industries. Australia is in a unique position for renewable energy resources. Solar, wind and wave plants are already being constructed around

CEN LFW Officer with a landholder

The CEN offers two programs to help landholders (both rural and urban) to improve the environment for wildlife. Both programs are FREE to join. Our Land for Wildlife (LFW) program is for landholders that have a minimum of 1/2 hectare of bushland on their properties. This is a voluntary, non-binding program that assists landholders to include biodiversity values in managing their properties. Our LFW Officer will assess your property and provide a report to the landholder with recommendations on how to manage the area. If you then choose to join LFW we

provide a sign, information pack and invitations to regular workshops. When funding is available, we can also assist landholders with professional bush regeneration. If you don’t have bushland, but are still interested in improving your backyard to attract wildlife - then our Habitat for Wildlife program is available. We provide members with an information pack, 2 free plants from our nursery and a sign (at a cost of $10). There are also workshops and field days. If you would like to find out more information visit our website: www.cen.org. au or phone 4349 4756.

Our Central Coast - Worth Protecting The Community Environment Network (CEN) is an alliance of individuals and groups that work for ecologically sustainable development.

Support CEN - Become a member - Volunteer - Make a donation

www.cen.org.au

Ph: 4349 4756

News Contracts exchanged for Australia China Theme Park land Wyong Council is already P66 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

acting as a pseudo Central Coast Council

W yong Council has exchanged contracts with the Australia China Theme Park (ACTP) for the sale of 15.7 hectares of land at Warnervale for $10 million plus GST.

The land is to be sold as two parcels under linked contracts. Deposits of $300,000 for each contract have been received in full, in accordance with the terms of the contracts. ACTP have a maximum of 12 months from the date of the contract to settle on the purchase of the first parcel. The first parcel of land is the site of the pending development application for stage one of the Chappy Pie Theme Park and the purchase price to be paid for this parcel is $3 million plus GST. The purchase price for the second parcel of land is $7 million, plus GST. ACTP have a maximum of two years from the date of the contract to settle on the purchase of this parcel of land. According to Wyong Council, ACTP intends

to develop the second parcel into the remainder of the theme park, the Meridian Gate, Treasure Ship, Panda Paradise and Spring Festival Square. Council’s only role in the development, apart from one as vendor, is to assist the NSW Department of Planning and Environment in its consideration of the pending proposal to amend the Wyong Local Environmental Plan 2013 in respect of the subject land, and to assist the Joint Regional Planning Panel in its consideration of development applications for the different stages of the proposed development. Mr Bruce Zhong from ACTP said they were pleased the purchase of the land was going ahead as the location made it an ideal place for the vision of a Chinese Theme Park to become a reality.

“Wyong shire is certainly an area on the move and an ideal place to invest, with its available land and proximity to Sydney,” Mr Zhong said. “It is a great place to realise our vision of showcasing the wonder of our Chinese culture to an Australian audience and we thank Wyong Council for the opportunity.” A development application for the first stage of the theme park has been submitted to build a Place of Public Worship (temple) and ancillary structures. That development application is currently going through the statutory process. The public exhibition for the development included the display of a scale model of the temple at Tuggerah Westfield. Media release, Feb 5, 2016, Wyong Council media

yong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM said he would be happy for the Wyong Regional Chronicle to report that Wyong Council is already acting as a pseudo Central Coast Council.

Both Wyong and Gosford Councils are currently in a ‘merger proposal period’ following the NSW State Government’s decision in January that they should be merged into one regional council. A delegate, Mr John Rayner has been appointed by the Office of Local Government to examine the merger proposal and report back. Three (non-advertised) public hearings have been held and, according to Cr Eaton, councilors from both Gosford and Wyong met with Mr Rayner on the evening of Thursday, February 11 at an informal briefing. “I certainly think the merger is inevitable, everyone thinks the same way, and I think we are wasting time and wasting resources in trying to still argue against it, so I am trying to expend my time and resources on getting the best outcome we can from it,” he said. According to Cr Eaton, Wyong councillors determined the issues council will include in its formal submission to the

delegate. Those issues included supporting a council that carves the local government area up into four wards, each with three councilors, and a popularly elected mayor. Its submission will call for both the Wyong and Gosford civic centres to remain, with meetings rotated in both locations. “Remuneration and resources for councillors need to be increased in line with the increased job,’ Cr Eaton said. “Many of those things Gosford have yet to, and may not, make a determination on,” he said. Cr Eaton said he had pushed his fellow Wyong councillors to get some of those decisions about the shape of the new council through. “I certainly advanced the model,” he said. “We had a good discussion about it in our weekend workshop, and what we agreed to was significantly the majority view, it wasn’t a five four vote.” Cr Eaton said the most likely break down of the

new local government area into wards would be to keep two wards in Wyong. “Leave A ward exactly as it is and bring B ward into Gosford to a small extent on the southwestern fringe, B ward is already the rural ward of Wyong.” As for Gosford, “my view is you would split it east-west pretty much up Brisbane Water, but I haven’t done the numbers.” Wyong Council has also resolved to complete a coast-wide survey that “asks people what are their priorities for the new council. “Wyong didn’t have to do it, but it would have to be done at some time, because some time after July, they are forming the new council, so you want that information at the time you are forming it. “I am not worried about spending Wyong money on Gosford, because soon, we will all be the one area,” he said. Interview, Feb 12, 2016 Doug Eaton, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P7 7

Merger

Mayor makes Acting CEO to remain presentation on merger until merger proclamation yong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM made a presentation on behalf of Wyong Council at one of the (non-advertised) public hearings into the merger between Wyong and Gosford

Council.

Cr Eaton called for the new amalgamated council to have wards, for current councillors to keep their positions, and for the abolition of the Central Coast Water Corporation. The public meetings were held in Gosford and Wyong on Wednesday, February 3, and were overseen by a delegate appointed by the Office of Local Government, Mr John Rayner, to hear the views of the public and affected Councils on the merger.

Wyong Council strongly pushed for a ward system “to ensure every area across the whole of the Central Coast is represented in the new Council,” Cr Eaton said. “We also want to ensure that the current councillors remain in power to ensure the community voice is heard as the new Council takes shape,” he said. In April 2015, Wyong Council surveyed 2,300 residents on a range of issues including their

view on a proposed merger. Eighty per cent of residents supported better community consultation on the plan to merge. In the same survey, 40 per cent of residents said they were opposed to the merger, with 30 per cent in favour and 30 per cent undecided. Cr Eaton spoke at the other Wyong public hearing in his capacity as a resident of Wyong. Media release, Feb 3, 2016 Wyong Council media

Projected merger savings based on incorrect formulas he Baird Government’s promise of savings through the amalgamation of Gosford and Wyong councils was dealt a blow with the news that the formulas used for calculations were incorrect.

According to member for Wyong, Mr David Harris MP, the technical paper by KPMG, ‘Outline of Financial Modelling Assumptions for Local Government Merger Proposals’, reveals that the wrong staff entitlements were used and could severely impact on predicted savings. Mr Harris said that the Government paid $400,000 to KPMG to produce the report and the Office of Local Government was not shown the full document. Mr Harris said: “Our local councils estimate that the cost of amalgamation will be between $100 million and $120 million. “This whole process has been a shambles from the start and now we find that their assumptions

are based on the wrong formulas. “Why won’t the government release the whole KPMG report and allow properly informed debate? “The whole process has been shrouded in secrecy from the start. “Residents should have all the facts about benefits and disadvantages, and it is they who should make the final decision; there should not be forced amalgamations. “I am receiving a large amount of correspondence from residents who think that their local area will be disadvantaged through a merger and it’s hard to disagree. “Since coming to office, the Liberals and Nationals have spent at least $10 million on

different reviews into local government. “This doesn’t include internal reviews, the recent Legislative Council inquiry, and the millions of dollars spent by local government itself producing reports to prove they were ‘Fit for the Future’. “The government also spent around $2.2 million in 2015 on its Stronger Councils, Stronger Communities advertising campaign; trying to convince a skeptical community that bigger was better. “Now they have launched another advertising campaign with the same message.” Media release, Feb 1, 2016 Jake Allen, office of David Harris

Rob Noble has been appointed acting CEO of Wyong Council for 12 months

r Rob Noble’s contract as acting CEO of Wyong Council has been extended until mid-June, by which time a merger proclamation is expected.

Wyong Council also voted, in a confidential session following its February 10 public meeting, to create a new position of operations manager. The operations manager will assist Mr Noble with the day-today business of council so that he can focus on the looming merger between Wyong and Gosford councils. When asked whether the creation of the new position was, in fact, a sidelining of Mr Noble, Wyong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM said that was not the case. “Rob Noble has been kept on and nothing has changed in the sense that he is still the CEO because the buck stops with him. “He will still be responsible for the meeting agenda and he will still be next to me at the council meetings,” Cr Eaton said. “The job of the general manager or CEO is huge, and we have added to that a merger, and the job has got to be 50 per cent bigger than it used to be. “And that is where he is especially useful to

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us, in the merger, so he needs to concentrate on the merger and we are worried as that happens, and this has always been a concern, that day to day business could suffer,” he said. Cr Eaton said the filling of the newly-created position of operations manager would be a sideways move or promotion for an existing staff member. Cr Eaton disputed the notion that the creation of the general manager’s position had anything to do with differences of opinion over operational matters between the mayor and acting CEO. “None of it is true; it is all lies,” he said. “There is no friction at all, or I should say, no

more than usual. “There is always a certain small amount of friction between a mayor and general manager. “I don’t think he is always thrilled by council decisions, particularly where his reports don’t get up.” Cr Eaton said: “Mr Noble is an experienced CEO and is proving a wise head on the merger. “The new Operations Manager will ensure day to day operations continue and allow even more devotion to the merger as the proclamation approaches.” Media release, Feb 10, 2016 Wyong Council media Interview, Feb 12, 2016 Doug Eaton, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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P88 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Burns Rd potholes require much more than a quick fix urimbah R e g i o n Residents Association’s Ms Di Willard said that it was “about time” that Wyong Council closed Burns Rd to repair potholes that have been getting worse since Australia Day.

Ms Willard said she had been in touch with the council several times about the state of the potholes on the road near the underpass that had been flooded during the January storms. She said the problem had been getting worse for months and council workers had been out several times to put heavy patches in the holes, but there was still water over the road so the holes came back within days, if not hours. “If I had driven my little car into one of the potholes that was hidden by the water, I do not know what would have happened,” she said. “People have been needing to stop dead and weave their way around the holes on a busy stretch of road,” she said. Ms Willard said she took photos of the potfoles on January 25 and sent them to Cr Bob Graham. “As usual, he responded immediately, and on January 26, heavy patching was done late afternoon. “On January 27, further heavy patching was carried out, but then we had more rain, so by the weekend, the potholes were back, even worse than before and much deeper.

Satisfaction survey coast-wide satisfaction survey of current Council services has been commissioned by Wyong Council to provide base-line data to assist in the formation of a new Central Coast Council.

“Most filled “M t fill d with ith water, so unless one took care driving through, the risk was wheel damage. “At approximately 1:30pm on February 1, council maintenance staff carried out ‘heavy patching again’. “I stopped and asked if this time they were going to do it properly and the response was - ‘just doing what we’re told, as sick of it as you are’. “As water sits over the road, patching is not going to work. “There is no point sweeping water away from holes, filling the holes with road base or whatever they use because when the water comes back, vehicles drive through and the potholes are back. “To do the job properly, the road has to be closed, but before that......there is something very wrong with the drainage. “Why has no investigation been done in relation to why water is consistently over this part of the road? “Why does WSC insist

on ordering d i staff t ff tto hheavy patch when it just does not work? “We, the Ourimbah residents and all those who use Burns Rd, are fed up with this ‘quickfix’ method. “Council has been lucky to date that there has not been an accident or damage to vehicles that they would likely be responsible for.” Ms Willard said she had attempted to contact staff four times in one day at the beginning of February, but the phone queue averages 17 to 27 minutes, so she left messages. A letter from Mr Daryl Mann, Wyong Council’s manager of roads and drainage to Cr Bob Graham, dated February 2, explained that the drains under the rail bridge were blocked and due to be cleaned out. “The issue with the seal under the bridge is more problematic,” Mr Mann’s letter said. “From initial discussion, the pavement under the bridge is

supposedd to t be b concrete. t “If so, the asphaltic fix will be deep, that then affects the trafficable height limits of the bridge that then require RMS approval and a change of all the existing signage. “We are talking about less than three metres that may prohibit taller vehicles, boats etc, equals more complaints. “I just wanted to ensure that you are aware of what the issues are, that there is no cost cutting and we are investigating the best fix that will take time with the issues,” the letter said. Ms Willard from ORRA also said she was relieved that the Burns Rd repairs were finally underway. “They should have done this ages ago, but better late than never,” she said. Emails, Feb 1, 2, 11, 2016 Interview, Feb 1, 2016 Di Willard, ORRA

Should the amalgamation of the Gosford and Wyong local government areas proceed, information in relation to the current services, the desired levels of service and the need for any new services, is considered beneficial for the new Council to enable it to set its organisational structure and best meet the needs of the community.

Wyong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM said, “The community should have a say on the priorities and direction of a new council. “They may in fact feel differently about what they want from an amalgamated council than what they currently get.” Media release, Feb 10, 2016 Wyong Council media

Council upset over “escort” allegation yong Council has confirmed rangers and other staff are present at Council meetings, to assist members of the public and for public safety.

A statement from council’s media unit stated that the front doors of the Civic Centre are closed at 5:00pm and rangers and other staff are present to let residents in and out of the building. “Two rangers were present for part of the Council meeting on Wednesday, February 10. “Those rangers and other staff allowed a number of residents, including one who sought to address the council, out of the building in

BECAUSE NO ONE SHOULD HAVE TO GO IT ALONE

accordance with normal practice as the front door of the building was locked. “Council strongly denies accusations published in another paper that they escorted a resident from the building. “No person was forcibly escorted from the building. “Council is seeking legal advice.” Media release, Feb 12, 2016 Wyong Council Media

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P9 W 9

Passenger fares set to rise ember for Wyong Mr David Harris MP said he encouraged the community to comment on the latest IPART report on Opal fares after it was revealed that Central Coast commuters face more fare hikes with no improvement in service.

“Commuters from Wyong Station to Central Station in Sydney look set to cop an extra $260 per year in fares, which is a $5 per week increase, representing an eight per cent jump in prices,” Mr Harris said. “Perhaps the most controversial element is that self-funded retirees will lose their access to the Opal Gold Card,” he said. “Holders of a NSW Seniors Card will no longer be eligible for a Gold Opal Card; instead they will be eligible for an Opal Concession Card, meaning they will pay more.

“NSW Senior Card holders who do not have a pensioner or war widow/er card will face a daily fare cap increase from $2.50 today to $9.00 in July 2016. “The Opal Card system is good concept, however, we have to ensure public transport fares encourage commuters to use the public transport system, not drive them back to their cars. “The draft fare changes discourage use of our public transport system, hitting seniors and low income earners the hardest. “Irregular users of trains and other forms of

News

Civil Mining Construction win Wyong Rd major upgrade tender

public transport will be losers under the proposal, how is that fair? “The very popular pensioners travel fare will rise from $2.50 to $4, something the NSW Government never flagged at the last election. “These increases are proposed without any service improvements including the fact that Wyong and Tuggerah Station do not even have Opal top up machines,” Mr Harris concluded. Media release, Jan 19, 2016 Jake Allen, office of David Harris

Wyong LEP to be amended

Wyong Rd roundabouts to be upgraded by Civil Mining Construction

he tender for major work on Wyong Rd between the Mingara Dve and Tumbi Rd intersections has been awarded to Civil Mining Construction.

planning proposal will be prepared to enable a suite of minor P a r l i a m e n t a r y Hansens Rd roundabout, providing amendments to the Wyong Local Environment Plan (WLEP). secretary for the and installing a pedestrian right-turn

These minor h o u s e k e e p i n g amendments would be aimed at ensuring Wyong Council’s local planning framework remained current, and at maintaining community

Peninsula Community Access Edition 384

confidence in how council regulates development throughout the shire. “These amendments will ensure our LEP continues to give us the flexibility and modern instruments we need

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

Media release, Dec 10, 2015 Wyong council media

Peninsula Community Access 11 January 2016

Peninsula Community Access Edition 385

to attract good quality development to our growing shire,” Wyong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM said.

Edition 386

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

8 February 2016

s News Ne Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

25 January 2016

Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald MLC announced the tender on February 2. Mr MacDonald said the NSW Government had allocated $7 million in 2015-16 to replace each roundabout with traffic lights along this section of Wyong Rd to improve traffic flow and safety for the 48,000 vehicles using it each day. “Roads and Maritime Services started preparatory work late last year for major work at the roundabouts. “Early work included re-surfacing the carpark behind the Tumbi Umbi shops, modifying the Mingara Dve and

bridge on Wyong Rd near Mingara Dve. “With early work now completed, major upgrade work can start at both intersections. “This project is one of a number of upgrades on Wyong Rd that will improve traffic flow and safety. “These include the Pacific Hwy and Wyong Rd intersection upgrade at Tuggerah, the Wyong Rd upgrade at the Enterprise Dve and Chittaway Rd intersection, and the upgrades at the Mingara Dve and Tumbi Rd intersections.” Mr MacDonald said the Tumbi Rd intersection upgrade includes

additional lanes from Wyong Rd into Tumbi Rd and improving access for vehicles into and out of Watson Ave. Mr MacDonald said: “Key features of the Mingara Dve intersection upgrade include widening Wyong Rd to four lanes in the westbound direction: two through-lanes, a leftturn lane into Mingara Dve and a right-turn lane into Tumbi Creek Rd. “Work will start early next year and the upgrade is expected to be completed before the end of 2018, weather permitting.” Media release, Feb 2, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald

Most Peninsula commuters make 10 trips a week by train according to Ms Kathy Smith

Public transport costs could rise by almost half Weekly public transport costs for Peninsula residents could rise substantially – in some cases by almost 50 per cent - if IPART’s proposed reforms to Opal transport fares are adopted by the NSW Government. The weekly fare from Woy Woy to Central could rise by 25 per cent over two years from $60 to $75 a week, while the weekly fare from Woy Woy to Tuggerah will increase by 48 per cent to $57 with the changes to be implemented in July. The current $60 per week cap will go up to $65 per week in July, meaning the maximum increase for commuters who already reach the cap would be $5 or eight per cent, according to IPART chairman Dr Peter Boxall. IPART proposes increasing the weekly cap to $70 in 2017 and $75 in 2018 – 25 per cent higher than the current cap. The draft reforms would apply a daily cap of $18 from July 2016, meaning that passengers taking a

one-off return journey from Woy Woy to the city who currently pay $15, would pay $3, which is a 20 per cent increase. A further increase of the daily cap is then planned, to $19 in 2017/18 and $20 in 2018/19. Central Coast Greens spokesperson, Ms Kate da Costa has described the IPART proposals as a mixed bag for the Peninsula’s commuters. “Moving to integrated multimode fares is long overdue but other recommendations might stop people using public transport which is the opposite to what government policy should be,” Ms da Costa said. “We have real concerns about increasing the prices for seniors and pensioners with fares rising from $2.50 to $3.60 and upwards,” she said. “Why is the State Government seeking to increase revenue from some of the most vulnerable public transport users? “We should be doing everything we can to get cars off the road

not be in the best interests of the no longer tracks passenger journeys. Peninsula community. “Instead a record is kept only of She said IPART assumed that only a minority of commuters make where people start their journey. “How can this possible help with 10 public transport trips per week. “To assume public transport future planning? users don’t travel for 10 trips per IPART is now seeking week is naïve or misleading,” Ms community feedback on its draft Smith said. fare reform package before a final “The majority of users are report will be released next year. commuting to work to five day a Submissions will be accepted week jobs hence they complete a until February 5, 2016. minimum of 10 trips per week,” she Any new fares would come into said. effect on 1 July 2016. She said the reforms also The Draft Report is available on appeared to give preferential IPART’s website. Jumbuck Reserve in Jumbuck Close, Woy Woy treatment to commuters using “We want to hear from more than one mode of public passengers and taxpayers about transport. what they want their fares to look According to Ms Smith this would like and how they prioritise different also disadvantage commuters in things where there are trade-offs to the Gosford electorate, many of be made,” Dr Boxall said. whom drive their own cars to Woy Media statement, 7 Jan 2016 Woy (or Gosford train station) and Jane Letteri, office of Kathy Smith then catch the train to and from Media releases, 21 and 22 Dec 2015 work. Julie Sheather, may Independent in place,” he said. He said SEPP19 spelt out ut Council be more significant.” “The majority of train travellers Gosford Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal Mr Conacher said the parcels of According to the Local what Gosford Council must do iff it of the Local also only use one form of transport. in breach Media release, 21 Dec 2015 community land on the Peninsula Government Act, land owned by intended to reclassify community ty and “Of particular concern to me is Government MehreenAct Faruqi, NSWState Greens that have been earmarked for a council must be classified as bushland with characteristics of policy inDec its the fact that the NSW Government planning Media release, 21 2015 and sale by either operational or community, remnant vegetation. Ryan Gibb,and Officeproposed of Ryan Park reclassification management According to Mr Conacher, er, Gosford Council should have Mr Conacher said. sale of council-owned management plans in accordance for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Operational land included SEPP19 stated that councils should ld land on the Peninsula, with the Local Government Act. any land used for the general give priority to retaining bushland nd according to an East Gosford nt Under the Act, all land owned operations of council and unless it can prove a significant environmental consultant. by a local council that is classified includes depots, roads, and other social, economic or environmental tal Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Mr Phil Conacher of Conacher as community land must have a infrastructure. benefi t for reclassifying it. Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Consulting said that it appeared management plan prepared for it. Its over-arching objective is to Community land was defined Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 that the council-owned blocks on nd Mr Conacher said: “There was a as land that was not operational “protect and preserve bushland E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net the Peninsula were not covered by plan of management for community and was generally public open within urban areas… to protect ct Website: www.centralcoastnews.net a management plan, despite the land, natural areas and bushland spaces such as parks, reserves remnants of plant communities es Local Government Act requiring prepared by council in 2002. which were once characteristic of and conservation areas. such a plan. els “Under the Local Government Community land could come land; to retain bushland in parcels He said the council had also not Act, council can prepare a generic into council ownership in a variety of a size and configuration which ch followed the requirements of State plan of management but must of ways: Crown land transferred to will enable the existing plants and nd Environmental Planning Policy 19 identify what land is included in it,” council by the State government; animal communities to survive in in its proposed sale of the land. he said. land set aside for community use the long term”, he said. Mr Conacher said Jumbuck cil He said Gosford Council According to Mr Conacher, as part of a development approval; Close reserve was a “classic the Gosford Council document or bequeathed to council from may also be exposing itself to example” of how, without a has a schedule attached which families, individuals or community compensation claims if it had ad management plan in place lists which parcels of land were organisations. acquired land at a price based on or adherence to SEPP19, included. According to Mr Conacher, if its unimproved value and then by council could be damaging any “None of the Peninsula lots Gosford Council failed to develop rezoning, perhaps for residential endangered ecological species or appears to be on the schedule,” he management plans for the development, its value per hectare remnant flora present on the site. said. Peninsula’s reserves, it could be is increased. “The appointment of councillors He said the original vendor may All councils in NSW had to in breach of the Local Government requires them to follow the rules classify all their land holdings when Act. have a case for being compensated and act just like we have to: follow the Act came into law in 1993. Mr Conacher said that in for that valuation difference. traffic rules or get fined if we don’t,” Mr Conacher also questioned “All land had to be identified, reclassifying reserves the council he said. even if it was a 1920 subdivision or had to pay regard to State why Gosford Council has launched “They have possibly destroyed a person may have gifted land and Environmental Planning Policy its land sale strategy now and a lot of other vegetation on the expect council to look after it as a 19 (SEPP 19), which covered the not undertaken a review of its Jumbuck Close site and others reserve for the sake of that family, management of bushland in urban land holdings when the Local that could have made those sites a management plan had to be put areas. Environment Plan was drafted in

including on weekends which are increasingly congested. “Removing reduced price or free trips and introducing a complicated fare credit scheme will not promote public transport use. “Coast users will be slugged again with increased fares for longdistance commuters. “If speeds can’t be improved because of the Cowan Rise, we are calling for the introduction of continuously available wiﬁ and charging points in trains, so that commuters can negotiate with their employers to take work time on the train into account to shorten their day in the ofﬁce, and gain back some valuable family time.” NSW Shadow Minister for Transport and infrastructure said a commuter travelling between 25 and 35km to and from work would face a yearly increase of $959. Mr Park said a daily train journey from Woy Woy to Tuggerah would fall into that category. Member for Gosford Ms Kathy Smith has said IPART’s proposed reforms to Opal transport fares will

THIS ISSUE contains 54 articles - Read more news items

The Roving Rubies at their recent bikini pool party to celebrate Edna Fowler’s 92nd birthday

Edna celebrates 92nd birthday A local group of the Red Hat Society has celebrated the 92nd birthday of one of its members. The Roving Rubies celebrated the birthday of Ms Edna Fowler from Woy Woy on January 26. Edna has been a member of the Roving Rubies for the past seven years and ofﬁcially turned 92 on January 31, although the Roving Rubies celebrated a few days earlier with a bikini pool party. She was recognised in the group as a talented cake decorator and for dress making, including hand smocking, and special dresses for deceased babies. More than 40 Roving Rubies attended the pool party at a member’s home for Edna’s

Gosford Council land sale may nt breach Act, says consultant

birthday. The founder of the group, Ms Marlene Klintworth, also known as Queen Lilimarlene, said she formed the group when she first moved to the Central Coast as a way of meeting people. There were now 130 Roving Rubies, women between the ages of 45 and 92 who wanted to “learn how to grow old disgracefully”. Edna is an excellent example of the benefits of being a Roving Ruby, said Ms Klintworth. She still lives in her own home and is fiercely independent. She walks without a stick, still has excellent hearing, plays lawn bowls and has a golf handicap of 22. Her three tips for longevity are healthy living, happy hour and

2013. “The Gosford LEP was a 15year process. They had four or five goes at it so surely reviewing community holdings would have been part of that process,” he said. SEPP 19 instructs councils THIS an ISSUE contains LEP, council that, when drafting should have regard to the priority of retaining bushland, he said. “Why wasn’t it identified that they needed for residential purposes?” He also questioned whether the resale of the reserves currently listed would be viable. “If you were a private developer wanting to develop those lands for residential development, you’d first have to apply for rezoning and you would have to find biodiversity offsets. “You would have to find land of a similar nature and similar locality at a ratio i off 10 to one. “It is usually the person applying for the rezoning that has to find those offsets and that is why if Gosford Council goes ahead to sell those reserves the person buying the land could do their due diligence and may find requirements of the Local Government Act haven’t been met.”

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55 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

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

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OnTheBeat

P10 P1 10 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Seventeen people arrested in major strike force operation e v e n t e e n people have been arrested and drugs, cash and prohibited weapons have been seized following an investigation targeting the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG) on the Central Coast.

Strike Force Gateley was formed by detectives from the State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad and Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command in January 2015 to investigate the criminal activities of Rebels OMCG members on the Central Coast. Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives executed multiple simultaneous search warrants within the Tuggerah Lakes and Brisbane Water local area commands on Tuesday, February 9 and Wednesday, February 10. More than 200 officers were involved in the operation, including strike force detectives, officers attached to the Northern Region, Public Order and Riot Squad, Polair, Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit and the Dog Unit. Eight warrants were executed on Tuesday, February 9 at homes in Budgewoi, Killarney Vale,

Hamlyn Terrace arrest

Lisarow and The Entrance, along with two homes each at Hamlyn Terrace and Mannering Park. One warrant was also executed on a tattoo parlour at The Entrance, while a Firearms Prohibition Order search was conducted at Tumbi Umbi. Four further search warrants were executed at homes in Kangy Angy, Wyoming and The Entrance on Wednesday, February 10. Over the two days, detectives located and seized a large amount of items including prohibited drugs, pill presses, a

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handgun and ammunition, along with a large sum of cash, Rebels OMCG paraphernalia and reptiles. Ten people, all members or associates of the Rebels OMCG, were arrested on Wednesday, February 10 and charged with various offences. A 52-year-old man, arrested in Mannering Park, was charged with habitually consort with convicted offender and was bail refused to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. A 26-year-old Hamlyn Terrace man was charged with affray; participate in a criminal group (two counts); reckless grievous bodily harm in company; assault occasioning actual bodily harm (two counts); supply prohibited drug (four counts); malicious damage; intimidation; and pervert the course of justice. He was bail refused to appear at Wyong Local Court on April 6. A 26-year-old woman was also arrested at a Hamlyn Terrace home and was charged with pervert the course of justice; and owner not disclose identity of driver. She was conditionally bailed to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. A 33-year-old man was arrested at The Entrance and charged with affray and participate in a criminal group. He was bailed to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. A 26-year-old man was arrested at Lisarow

Long Jetty arrest

arrested at Wyoming and charged with affray and participate in criminal group. He is due to appear at Gosford Local Court on March 15. A 25-year-old man was arrested at Kangy Angy and charged with habitually consort with convicted offenders after warning. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 16. A 46-year-old woman was arrested at The Entrance and charged with supply prohibited drug (x5), and ongoing supply prohibited drug. She has been bail refused and was due to appear at Wyong Local Court on February 11. A 46-year-old man was arrested at The Entrance and charged with enter enclosed lands, larceny and intent to pervert the course of justice. He has been refused bail and was due to appear at Wyong Local Court today on February 11. Approximately 40 taxation notices were also served. Strike Force Gateley continues its investigation and more searches and arrests are expected.

and charged with supply prohibited drugs (10 counts) and affray. He was bail refused and was due to appear at Hornsby Local Court on February 10. A 24-year-old man was arrested at Hamlyn Terrace and charged with possess unregistered firearm; possess unauthorised pistol; not keep firearm safely; supply prohibited drug (three counts); and participate in criminal group. He was bail refused to appear at Wyong Local Court on April 6. A 51-year-old man was arrested at Killarney Vale and charged with five counts of supply prohibited drugs and was bail refused to appear at Wyong Local Court on April 6. A51-year-old Budgewoi man was charged with do act to pervert the course of justice and was bailed to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. A 51-year-old man was arrested during the operation and charged with supply prohibited drugs; organises/conducts etc drug premises; and hinder investigation. He was bail refused to appear at Wyong Local Court on April 6. A 49-year-old man was also arrested during the operation and charged with supply prohibited drugs (two counts); and participate in a criminal group. He was bail refused to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. Seven more people were

arrested on Wednesday, February 10 and charged with varying offences. A 48-year-old man was arrested at The Entrance and charged with possess prohibited drug. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. A 31-year-old man was arrested at The Entrance and charged with an outstanding warrant. He was refused bail and appeared at Wyong Local court on Wednesday, February 10. A 30-year-old woman was arrested at The Entrance and charged with supply prohibited drug. She was granted conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on March 2. A 23-year-old man was

Media release, Feb 11, 2016 NSW Police media

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OnTheBeat

Blue Bay man charged with more than 20 offences 24-year-old Blue Bay man has been charged with more than 20 offences after police allegedly found prohibited drugs and an improvised explosive device in his vehicle.

Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command stopped a black Mitsubishi Triton utility on Oakland Ave, The Entrance on Wednesday, February 3 around 6:00pm. Inquiries revealed the driver was wanted in relation to the alleged production of counterfeit money. During a search of the vehicle, police allegedly discovered an amount of methylamphetamine (ice), an improvised explosive device, and

Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263. Given the advent of a Greater Central Coast Council in the near future, following is a summary of news articles

published in the most recent edition of each of our sister Central Coast publications. The full articles and more, as well as all previously published editions, can be seen on line on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net

Peninsula Community Access

items believed to be used in the production of counterfeit money. The driver was arrested and taken to Wyong Police Station. Specialist officers from the rescue and bomb disposal unit were called to the area to examine the suspected improvised explosive device, which was seized and rendered safe. The man was later

charged with dishonestly obtain property by deception (10 counts), possess counterfeit money, make counterfeit money, drive while suspended, possess explosive in public place, possess prohibited drug and further counterfeit money and drug-related offences. He was refused bail to appear before Wyong Local Court on Thursday, February 4. Media release, Feb 4, 2016 NSW Police media

Police uncover large quantity of Ice in vehicle man will face court charged over alleged drug offences following a vehicle stop in Wyong.

About 9:30am on Tuesday, February 2, police from the Tuggerah Lakes Target Action Group were patrolling Boyce Ave in Wyong. Officers sighted a black Holden Commodore sedan travelling in the opposite direction and when they turned around to stop the Holden, it allegedly drove away at speed. A short time later, officers sighted the Holden again in Panonia

Other Regional News - In brief

Rd and stopped the car. During a subsequent search, officers allegedly located a quantity of methyl amphetamine (ice) and amphetamine (speed) inside the car with an estimated potential street value of $9,000. The 26-year-old man driving the Holden was arrested along with a 28-year-old female passenger.

Both were taken to Wyong Police Station, where the driver was charged with several drug offences: supply prohibited drug; and possess prohibited drug (x2). The woman was released without charge. The man was refused bail to appear before Wyong Local Court on Wednesday, February 3. Media release, Feb 3, 2016 NSW Police media

Edition 385

Copies of these other publications may be obtained from our offices in Gosford, by subscription, or from a myriad of locations in the areas covered by each publication.

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

25 January 2016

Peninsula News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2256 & 2257.

Edna celebrates 92nd birthday

Smith seeks action on channel at Oyster Beach

A local group of the Red Hat Society has celebrated the 92nd birthday of one of its members.

Member for Gosford Ms Kathy Smith is seeking Ministerial action to dredge the channel off Oyster Beach.

The former chairman of the Ettalong Beach War Memorial Club, Mr Don Young of Woy Woy, has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his service to veterans ...

Council parking blitz was ‘un-Australian’, says bowls club

Council appoints consultant for land sale review

CDOs cost council $38 million

A parking blitz in Woy Woy conducted by Gosford Council on Australia Day has been described as shameful and un-Australian by the Woy Woy Bowling Club and local residents.

Gosford Council has commissioned an external consultant “to consider all aspects relevant to each parcel” of community land that it proposes to sell on the Peninsula.

Gosford Council could be $38 million better off if it had not invested in speculative instruments like Collateralised Debt Obligations (CDOs) in the market boom prior to the global ﬁnancial crisis.

Rescue for sinking vessel

Management plan does not list all council land for sale

Community Environment Network has urged community members to take further steps to encourage Gosford Council to “cease the sale and reclassiﬁcation...

Don Young receives OAM

Plan still applies to community land after 20 years

A management plan exists for 62 blocks of councilowned land on the Peninsula, according to Gosford Council chief Mr Paul Anderson

The Community Parks Plan of Management adopted by Gosford Council in 1996 still covers the management of community land, according to Gosford Council chief ...

The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net They can also be seen on www.PeninsulaNews.info

FRE

January 28, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 125

Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260

Commission of Inquiry called for before Coast water supply is irreparably damaged

Merger procedure is democracy in reverse

Councillors gagged over merger proposals

Eight residents registered to speak at the public hearing into the proposal to merge Gosford Council with Wyong Council.

Guidelines issued by the NSW Ofﬁce of Local Government appear to gag Gosford councillors from speaking out against the proposed merger with Wyong.

Council merger savings C will mainly be from job cuts to council staff

Erina Motor Registry to be replaced by a Service NSW Centre

The House of Representatives has been given an update on the creation of jobs in Gosford by federal member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wick.

The NSW Greens have set up their own council amalgamations website in response to the NSW Government’s refusal to release key...

NSW minister for ﬁnance, services and property, Mr Dominic Perrottet has announced a new Central Coast Service NSW Centre will open at Erina in...

The people have spoken but they’re not sure anyone listened

Councillors vote to C ill support merger after heated debate

C Cutting-edge technology installed at new eye care practice

The Mountain Districts Association has called on NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird to hold a Commission of Inquiry into the Mangrove Mountain Golf Course Remodelling...

Parliament hears about benefits of ATO building

councillors and Central Coast optometrist Gosford councillors have Liberal voted against a motion that Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie and advocate for preventative would have saved ﬁve parcels McKinna have voted in favour eye care, Dr Amanda Rungis, of community land from of a last-minute motion to recently established a new potential reclassiﬁcation and support the NSW minister for practice, Sure Eye Care, at local government’s ... Riverside Park... sale. The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.centralcoastnews.net Coast Community News articles can also be read and shared on your mobile phone by going to www.coastcommunitynews.com.au.

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P13 W 3

Chinese investment is, in effect, easily bought colonisation

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Chronicle more interesting than presentations

s the Wyong Regional Chronicle brave enough to publish this photo?

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egarding ‘Chinese theme park Heads of Agreement signed’ (WRC Jan 19), could we not just have Wyong’s mayor Eaton We were there. take on this project himself, for his own profit and investment, as My wife, Ms Jo Eyes, he so clearly has good friends in Shanghai who also want to move their presented, along with many others at the recent money offshore fast?

He clearly is a lover of Chinese State culture and business dealings pushing through an incredibly dodgy project (as I have explained in detail in a 100 page report on this silly idea already). It is absurd that masses of Chinese people are going to want to travel to suburban Warnervale, north of Gosford, to see more Chinese culture, especially given that hapless culture’s well known, and current, serious issues, environmental tragedies, neurosis, corruption, paranoia and sheer brutality. No, this is about real estate investment and moving money and people. Land and property sales to China are highly contentious and skyrocketing covertly at the moment in Australia and the Chinese are pressuring for more than the two million out of 25 million we already have as our biggest immigrant group. Tibet is just shaking its tortured head. Could we please slow down on the euphoria

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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

about being colonised by the Chinese State with land sales, trade and other deals? We have clearly already lost large slabs of our nation and key cities. The Theme Park has of course changed, even in its administration, as the Central Coast, and now Byron Bay, are two of the list of ‘targeted areas’ for mass Chinese immigration, land acquisition and what is in effect easily bought colonisation. This, I would remind you, is the same Central Coast of Craig Thompson and Belinda Neal fame, which now culturally boasts the first ‘world’s most offensive burger chain’, one of 300 planned for this hapless nation, signing absurd

trade deals which we can never get out of at Bateau Bay. Could we just slow down on the Chinese vision for Australia please, and stabilise again, beyond the Daily Tele world view? Australia is incredibly ungrounded, not helped by the Murdoch nonsense, rare decent quality media, now that the ABC is under attack again, a chaos that is causing suicides in our young, inciting violence in men, and tragedy for returned soldiers from refugee-causing wars we should not even be in. I think before we go on with this, the nation should look squarely at what is really going on here, because it’s not pretty. We need a serious rethink re the effect of endless corruption, waste and shocking sell-outs in this nation, and to have new forms of governance that have common sense principles and ethical innovation at the core. Canada has done it, and we need to do it. Email, Feb 3, 2016 Kerry Wright, Long Jetty

public hearing into the proposal to merge Wyong and Gosford Councils. Wyong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM ignored them all, took out his copy of the Chronicle and read it instead. How ignorant. Email, Feb 4, 2016 Laurie Eyes, Wyong Creek

(Ed: When we informed Cr Eaton that we would publish the photograph he said he was the only councillor who sat through both

Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton OAM reading the Wyong Regional Chronicle during one of the Wyong public hearings into the amalgamation

hearings and that he was listening; “so would you rather have someone there looking at stuff and

listening or would you rather not having anyone there,” Cr Eaton said)

Proposed up-front pathology fee a disgrace s a voter suffering from an incurable lifelong illness, I am disgusted and horrified at the callous proposal of the treasurer, in his Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO), to make people pay up-front for pathology testing designed to prevent complications caused by delayed treatment of preventable problems which would end up costing the health system orders of magnitude more.

Perhaps the treasurer is actually hoping those requiring health will just die off a bit quicker, thereby removing their increased demands on the health system and the budget as the population increasingly ages. This proposal must be

Forum

removed from the budget proposals immediately. Failing in his duty to the people who actually pay taxes in this country, as opposed to his corporate mates who he

proposes reducing taxes for; that is, when they actually bother to pay them, will be a complete and abject abrogation of his duty to the people of Australia. Email, Jan 23, 2016 Doug Williamson, Wamberal

Your local voices on the Central Coast!

DAVID HARRIS MP

YASMIN CATLEY MP

DAVID MEHAN MP

Ph: (02) 4352 2711

Ph: (02) 4972 1133

Ph: (02) 4334 1012

MEMBER FOR WYONG MEMBER FOR SWANSEA MEMBER FOR THE ENTRANCE Authorised by David Harris MP, Shop 4, 142 Paciﬁc Highway, Wyong NSW 2259

Health

P14 P1 14 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Research confirms ongoing effectiveness of traditional advertising Based on their research and worldwide experience, international marketing company NRS Media has provided the following 10 compelling statistics to help convince small to medium enterprises (SMEs) of the effectiveness of advertising in traditional mediums. As small businesses have a limited budget, they’re often cautious about investing in marketing, so having some real facts and figures can help them justify their expenditure. 1. spent on advertising benefits an SME 8x as much as a larger firm Small businesses are often wary about spending money on advertising, wrongly thinking it’s the sole realm of big companies. But even though they have less money to spend, they will see more impact when they do advertise.

2. An investment of $1 in newspaper advertising gives an average return of $11.89 in revenue According to research by the Direct Marketing Association, the return that small businesses can get when they invest in newspaper advertising is eleven times their expenditure. See the research by the DMA at http://printinthemix.com/fastfacts/show/414. 3. Advertising is the second most effective marketing method, behind word of mouth Some people think advertising doesn’t work, or that they’d be better investing their time in social media. But only 35% of small businesses think social media is successful. Advertising and word of mouth are both more effective. 4. 64% of SMEs say their advertising has been a success Small businesses might think advertising only works if you’re a big corporate but that’s simply not true. Even more small businesses could experience success if they had the support of a media partner who could guide them to create the most effective campaign. 5. 61% of small businesses with high levels of growth advertise, consult marketing advisers, or have their own marketing experts. Only 43% of small businesses not experiencing growth do If you need to grow their business, advertising is important. It’s actually one of three elements that marks out high-growth businesses from other SMEs. 6. An estimated 46% of digital ad impressions aren’t actually seen by people This shocking figure is a surprise to many people. Why pay for adverts that can’t be viewed? 7. Clickthrough rates from online ads are falling, from 9% in 2000 to just 0.2% in 2012 As we face more and more digital noise, online ads are becoming less effective. Not only are they less likely to be seen, they’re also less likely to clicked. That makes it much harder to reach out to people. The figure is likely to be less again in 2015. Traditional advertising can help. 8. TV, newspaper and magazine advertising is more likely to be noticed than online ads As we face more and more digital noise, online ads are becoming less effective. 9. Traditional media is also more likely to be trusted Newspaper, magazines and TV ads all have the highest level of trust, at 63%, 62% and 61% respectively. Radio and billboards aren’t far behind and are trusted by 58% and 55% of consumers. However, online ads are less trusted, with search ads coming in at 44%. That drops to 33% for banner ads. It makes sense for small businesses to place their budget into areas where they can influence people and grow trust. These statistics show that that area is traditional advertising. 10. 88% of consumers still use print to get information Despite what some people say, print is far from dead. So if you are worried that people don’t use print anymore, this research can help. It showed that 63% of people like print ads, compared to just 25% for online adverts. This information has been supplied based on newspapers of all types and sizes around the world. The trust and effectiveness factor will be far higher for newspapers such as those published under the Central Coast newspapers banner, as they are highly regarded for their content and are read from cover to cover because of their relevance to their readership and longer shelf life.

No risk of whooping cough outbreak at Wyong ollowing last month’s whooping cough incident which saw a mother and her newborn being exposed to the contagious disease in Gosford Hospital’s maternity ward, the Central Coast Local Health District has assured residents that there is no risk of an outbreak at Wyong Hospital.

Central Coast Local Health District communications officer, Ms Lauren Nicholls, said there would not be any cases of whooping cough, also called pertussis, being transmitted from Gosford to Wyong Hospital. “We don’t transfer maternity patients from Gosford to Wyong,” said Ms Nicholls. Ms Nicholls advised that all potential families that were at risk of last month’s whooping cough incident at Gosford Hospital have been notified. “All the families that were possibly at risk have been contacted, they are all aware,” said Ms Nicholls. Central Coast Local Health District advised that there is a procedure

and protocols that hospitals follow in regards to containing whooping cough and stopping an outbreak: “while there is a possibility that other mothers and babies were exposed during this period, the risk of contracting the infection is considered to be low.” “We have a whooping cough procedure,” said Ms Nicholls. “Within that procedure, patients are immediately isolated and appropriate precautions are taken until resolved,” she said. “If anyone was to be transferred and there were symptoms, the same procedure would occur.” The incubation period for whooping cough can range from seven to 21 days. The District recommended that

women in their third trimester of pregnancy get the free vaccination (preferably between 28 and 32 weeks) which will help protect their baby during the period they are developing their own immunity through the infant vaccination course which is given at six weeks of age. It is recommended that other household members such as fathers, grandparents and siblings think about pertussis vaccination and if they have not been vaccinated within the last 10 years, to get vaccinated at least two weeks before the birth. Media release, Feb 1, 2016 Interview, Feb 1, 2016 Lauren Nicholls, Central Coast Local Health District Thomas Birch, journalist

Guide dog fundraising stall he Central Coast Guide Dogs Volunteer Support Group will be at Lake Haven shopping centre selling merchandise and raffle tickets on Friday, February 26 to support those who are blind or vision impaired.

Members of the group will be available to share their experiences with visitors and discuss how Guide Dogs provide free services to help people with impaired vision. Margaret Grace, President of the Central Coast Support Group said, “Every dollar from the community counts as

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT only receives minimal government funding. “We appreciate the support given to us by Central Coast shopping centres who provide space for our fundraising stalls,” Ms Grace said. “Also the wonderful generosity of the local community and

supporters who continue to come along and purchase Guide Dogs merchandise and raffle tickets,” she said. The cost to breed, train and raise one Guide Dog is more than $35,000. Media release, Feb 7, 2016 Lynne Lillico, Central Coast Guide Dogs Volunteer Support Group

Demand for copies of Wyong Regional Chronicle has been extremely high lately. If you can’t wait to get your copy - read it online! If you lent yours to someone that won’t give it back - read it online! Missed an edi on or want to re-read something - read it online!

Simply go to www.wyongnews.org They’re all there and it’s FREE

P18 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P15

Venues Hotel Gosford 179 Mann Street Gosford Cnr. Erina Street

Friday 19 6pm - 7pm: 7.15pm - 8.15pm: 8.30pm - 9.30pm: 9.45pm - 10.45pm: 11pm - midnight:

Dust Digger Blues Sue Robinson Greg Bowles BluesAngels Muma Jane Blues Band

Sunday 21 2.30pm - 3.30pm: 3.45pm - 4.45pm: 5pm - 6pm: 6.15pm - 7.15pm:

1pm - 2pm: 2pm - 3pm: 3pm - 4pm:

4pm - 5pm:

Johnny Devilseed - Using a looper pedal Mimosa - Gypsy Jazz accompaniment Sue Robinson - Singing blues backing and harmonies Phil Hewitt - Blues harmonica

Saturday 20 6pm-7pm: 7.15pm - 8.15pm: 8.30pm - 9.30pm: 9.45pm - 10.45pm: 11pm - midnight:

Johnny Devilseed Greg Luland BluesAngels Phil and Trudy Edgeley Junkyard Cats

Hamish Baker Azadoota A Coupla Numbers Jessie Morris Band

Central Coast Leagues Club 1 Dane Drive, Gosford - Cnr Georgiana

Saturday 20 - Workshops upstairs

6.30pm - 7.30pm: 7.45pm - 8.45pm:

West Gosford RSL 26 Central Coast Highway - Cnr: Yallambee Avenue Ph: 4323 8391

1pm - 2pm: 2.15pm - 3.15pm: 3.30pm - 4.30pm: 4.45pm - 5.45pm:

Friday 19 Nasty Cloud Delta Blues Jugalug String Band Mimosa Big Band Obsession

Jugalug String Band Mimosa Slightly Off

Racecourse Road, Gosford Ph: 4337 3300

Sunday 21

Sunday 21 12noon - 1pm: 1.15pm - 2.15pm: 2.30pm - 4.45pm: 5pm - 6pm:

2pm - 3pm: 3.15pm - 4.15pm: 4.30pm - 5.30pm:

Greg Bowles BluesAngels Harry Harman's Gentlemen of Jazz Mimosa

1pm - 2pm: 2pm - 3pm: 3pm - 4pm:

Azadoota Assyrian culture and folk dance Paul Baker - Banjo setup for jazz Greg Luland - Guitar finger picking Greg Bowles - Slide guitar

Mann St, Gozford Ph: 4325 3371

Central Coast Hotel 108 Mann Street Gosford Cnr Donnison Street

Doggn It Johnny Devilseed Sugarcane Collins

Reviver Bar

Sunday 21 - Workshops upstairs 12noon - 1 pm:

Phil and Trudy Edgeley Colleen Fricker Paul Baker Trio Slightly Off

Gosford Golf and Function Centre

Saturday 20 7.30pm - 9.45pm: 10pm - 11pm: 11.15pm - 12.15am:

Blues, Jazz, and Roots Festival

Sunday 21

Terrace Ph: 4325 9895 7.30pm - 8.30pm: 8.45pm - 9.45pm: 10pm - 11pm: 11.15pm - 12.15am:

GosBlues

Two Buck Blues Band Azadoota

Sunday 21 3.30pm - 5.30pm:

Ph: 4324 1267

Dorian Mode

Saturday 20 4pm - 5pm: 5.15pm - 6.15pm:

Paul Baker Trio Slightly Off

Workshops and

any of the performers at GosBlues 2016 are specialists in a specific area of music Mand some of them have agreed to freely pass on their knowledge at workshops Sunday 21 to which everyone is invited. All workshops will be held upstairs at Hotel Gosford away from any noise created on stage on the ground floor.

Saturday 20 1pm - Johnny Devilseed - Using a looper pedal Johnny Devilseed has been using a looper pedal almost since they came out. The pedal enables him to record bass and rhythm backing to play lead over creating a one man band. 2pm - Mimosa - Gypsy Jazz accompaniment Morgan Haselden is a classically trained and professionally qualified guitarist. He heard Gypsy Jazz and was hooked. Morgan dedicated himself to play music like Django Reinhardt and has developed that skill to a world standard. Learn basic Gypsy Jazz from a real expert 3pm - Sue Robinson - Harmony and backing singing in blues Sue’s varied musical career encompassed providing studio backing vocals, singing in the original cast of Jesus Christ Superstar and Godspell, long-term residencies, huge concerts in front of thousands, and small folk clubs. Her workshop will cover the use of harmony in blues, when to join in, and how to use backing singing to make the band and the songs memorable. We will discuss how to use harmony to add ‘hooks’ and how to involve the audience. There will be lots of singing, so just bring your voices. 4pm - Phil Hewett - Blues harmonica Phil participated at the Hohner Harmonica Masters Workshops in Trossingen, Germany in 2007, 2010 and 2014, and for the past 5 years he has been a student of David Barrett of the School of The Blues. Phil is a competent player in traditional and post war Chicago style harmonica blues in first, second and third position diatonic harmonica, including advanced bending and over-bending and playing in minor and major. Bring an ‘A’ harmonica with if you can.

12noon - Azadoota - Assyrian culture and folk dance Robin Zirwanda is a native of Iraq and sings in his native Neo-Aramaic language. At his workshop Robin will talk about the disappearing Assyrian culture, their music and dance. It will include live music and demonstrations for people to join in. 1pm - Paul Baker - Banjo set-up for jazz

February 19-21

Paul has been playing banjo for 46 years and during that time has learnt a great deal about different ways to set up a banjo to give different tones as required for different music genres. Paul is keen to pass on his knowledge to anyone that is wanting to learn how to set up a banjo for different effects 2pm - Greg Luland - Blues fingerpicking guitar Greg plays blues the way the original masters played it and concentrates specifically on acoustic country blues styles of the 20s, 30s and 40s. He is keen to pass on some of what he has learned to anyone wishing to go down that same path 3pm - Greg Bowles - Slide guitar Greg is a multi-instrumentalist from Western Australia who specialises in 1920s and 1920s blues. His style punctuates his intuitive interpretations that show years of immersion in the blues and an infectious passion for the genre 5

www.gosblues.com 1

3 2 4

1 Hotel Gosford 2 Central Coast Leagues Club 3 Central Coast Hotel

6 4 West Gosford RSL 5 Gosford Golf and Function Centre 6 Reviver Bar

elcome to GosBlues 2016, free, three day event presenting quality Blues, Jazz and Roots music in multiple venues in the Gosford business district and surrounds.

GosBlues 2016 will be held over the weekend of February 19 to 21 in six venues, most of which are in walking distance from each other in the Gosford business district. Presented by Central Coast Newspapers and Trad&Now, GosBlues will start at 6pm on Friday, February 19 and will continue through to midnight. On Saturday, February 20, free concerts will commence from 4pm and continue through to midnight. Free entertainment on Sunday,

February 21 will commence at 1pm and continue until 7pm. Specially selected performers are coming to Gosford from many parts of Australia. Some of those with special expertise will also give free master classes and workshops in all aspects of blues, jazz and roots music, commencing at 12 noon on Saturday and again on Sunday. Entry to all venues will be free, but volunteer collectors will be seeking a gold coin donation for Coast Shelter at all venues. What could be more appropriate than Blues fans donating to Coast Shelter for the benefit of the many homeless people on the Coast? Blues helping people with the blues could very well become the event’s

motto. GosBlues 2016 is seeking to present a wide variety of Blues, Jazz and Roots music giving priority to the more unusual styles. Acts are being selected because they have something different to offer with many reproducing traditional forms of Blues and Jazz from the early nineteen hundreds while others will present music that has had a European influence on Jazz and Blues adding different rhythms. There will of course also be the more common blues bands for those that like it rocky and the Jazz component will include Gypsy Jazz, Trad Jazz, a Jug band and much more. See the following bios for a comprehensive list of the quality of artists

that have agreed to perform at the inaugural BosBlues festival. Each performer will have at least a one hour set to give fans the opportunity of seeing them at their best. All who are interested in music are encouraged to set this weekend aside as something special not to be missed. GosBlues is expecting to be an annual free event and to grow each year for as long as it is supported by large numbers of music fans and local businesses keen to see such an exciting event centred in the Gosford Central Business District, just one hour from major population areas in Sydney and Newcastle. Tell your friends and bring them along to this fantastic free event.

Free entry to all venues

P16 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P17

GosBlues Blues, Jazz, and Roots Festival

Hamish Baker

The Jugalug String Band

Nasty Cloud Delta Blues

Sue Robinson

Hamish played harmonica under Jim Conway and acoustic and resonator guitar under John Morris from the Blues Preachers for the past 8 years. Hear Hamish sing and play Fred McDowell, Big Bill Broonzy, Keb Mo, Robert Johnson and John Hurt classics. y 21,, Hotel Gosford,, 2.30pm p Sunday

The Jugalug Stringband was formed in 2005. Since then, Jugalug has performed regularly for the Sydney Jazz Club and at several Jazz Festivals. They have released three successful albums, “Waltz Mysterioso”, “Six Pack” and “Wabash Blues”. The Jugalug Stringband plays a repertoire of pre western swing music based upon the styles of early string and jug bands of the 1920’s and 30’s. The band is entertaining, engaging and swings like crazy and the instruments, dating back to the early part of the twentieth century, include National guitars, uke and lap steel, banjo, strohviol, mandolin, washboard and double bass Friday 19, Central Coast leagues Club, 8.45pm, Saturday 20, Central Coast Leagues Club, p 7.30pm

N.C.D.B are Brett Nasty old dog and Shane White Cloud Clarke. Yes we are brothers. Brett plays Harmonica and deep vocals while Shane is a Steel finger picker on a Mini Maton guitar and parlour size Dobro guitar. “Many of our fans say we are a unique Blues Duo,” Brettt said. “Shane plays many early traditional blues songs that have no harmonica in them so this is a challenge for me that I enjoy to complement the tunes with my own harmonica solos. “This, we believe, sets us apart from many other guitar and harmonica duos,” he said. Friday y 19,, Central Coast Leagues g Club,, 7.30pm p

Sue Robinson started singing traditional gospel and graduated from there to blues, jazz, rock and acoustic. She never lost the love of harmony and her subsequent career encompassed providing studio backing vocals, singing in the original cast of Jesus Christ Superstar and Godspell, long-term residencies, huge concerts in front of thousands, and small folk clubs. Sue has also arranged music for theatre. She has sung with numerous choirs and a-capella groups. Her workshop on Saturday will cover the use of harmony in blues, when to join in, and how to use backing singing to make the band and the songs memorable. We will discuss how to use harmony to add ‘hooks’ and how to involve the audience. There will be lots of singing, so just bring your voices Friday 19, Hotel Gosford, 7.15pm Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 3pm – Harmony g singing g g in blues workshop p and backing

www.gosblues.com Central Coast Newspapers and Trad&Now are to be commended for bringing such an event as GosBlues to the Central Coast. It is a welcome innovation that is bringing much needed entertainment into our community while raising funds for the ever worthwhile and valued Coast Shelter. I urge people to support this event and take the opportunity to become involved in the music and spirit of the weekend. Kathy Smith MP

Dorian has since recorded numerous jazz CDs with his last winning two ABC Music Awards for Best Jazz Composition and Best Instrumental. He also won Best Theatrical Score for music he composed for the Good German the following year. Sunday y 21,, Reviver Bar,, 3.30pm p

A Coupla Numbers

Big Band Obsession

Colleen Fricker

A Coupla Numbers are a “rockin’ blues band” playing in and around the Central Coast with influences from Bondi Cigars, Les Karski, Jimi Hendrix, Gary Moore, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Rolling Stones, Albert Collins and Charlie Musselwhite, all Aussie and American blues styles. Mark Bloor growls out the lead vocals and plays rhythm guitar. Dylan Bloor (son of) plays lead guitar with a style of his own and great blues /rock riffs. Mick Huxley is their energetic drummer/ vocals and a great part of the show. Wayne Lawler on Bass holds the rhythm section down with a great walking style blues feel. Phil Hewett on harmonica/vocals is being recognised as one of the top harp players on the Central Coast. Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 4pm - Blues harmonica workshop harmonica workshop Sunday21, y , Hotel Gosford,, 5pm p

Big Band Obsession, are a 17 piece band with a wide repertoire including Swing, Soul, Pop, Funk, Latin etc. The band was founded in 2013 by bandleader Peter Rohr. The band is based on the Central Coast and is made up of many professional musicians and music teachers. The line-up varies depending on availability. In a recent performance at Erina for example, they had 5 trumpets. Come prepared for a big sound. Friday 19, Central Coast Leagues Club, p 11.15pm

Colleen’s big, loud and emotionally raw vocals are reminiscent of Melissa Etheridge, Janis Joplin and Robert Plant. Couple that with addictive roots dance riffs under which runs a driving, foot stomping beat and you’ve got the prefect combination of blues and roots. With two albums under her belt and a slew of impressive support slots, Colleen is generating a big name for herself in the Sydney music scene. y 21,, West Gosford RSL,, 2.15pm p Sunday

Doggn It BluesAngels

Azadoota With the familiarity of pop-rock, the spicy heat of Latin rhythms and the mysterious sounds of an ancient language, Azadoota rouse unsuspecting pub-goers to their feet and onto dance-floors across the world. Pitching their music directly at a mainstream audience, Azadoota is one of Australia’s longest-established Worldbeat bands. Songwriter and front man Robin Zirwanda is a native of Iraq. He sings in his native Assyrian Neo-Aramaic language, now considered to be in danger of extinction. The band perform a repertoire of catchy originals, which extends from percussive dance tunes to sexy love songs, to solid funk, roots-rock and a touch of reggae always conveying an irrepressible sense of celebration. Saturday 20, Central Coast Hotel, 7.45pm Sunday 21, Hotel Gosford, 12noon, Assyrian Culture and Folk Dance Workshop Sunday 21, Hotel Gosford, 3.45pm

BluesAngels formed in 2008 to bring authentic and original acoustic blues to the NSW Central Coast and beyond. Exploring early New Orleans and Cajun blues, Appalachian through Mississippi delta, Piedmont, Texas, Memphis, Chicago, jump, British 60s, USA & Oz 70s, Newgrass, West Coast, and on into contemporary indie roots, beatnik jazz, backhills bluegrass and prog folk/ Americana-Australiana, BluesAngels are a total acoustic roots package top to toe, and then some. With multi vocals, guitars, banjo, harmonica, banjo mandolin, double bass, mandolin, saxophone, clarinet, tin whistle and percussion, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face and get your toes tapping. Friday 19, Hotel Gosford, 9.45pm Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 8.30pm Sunday 21, Central Coast Leagues Club, 1.15pm

Doggn It are a folk blues duo with players Graeme Druce on a variety of guitars and John Cupit on harp. They have played together since 1985 and won the Sydney Blues Challenge to represent NSW in Memphis in 2013. Competing with bands from 80 countries, they made it to the semi-finals with the top 28 bands in world blues. Doggn It sing and play their way through a commentary on Australian life. Sunday y 21,, Gosford Golf Club,, 2pm p

Dorian Mode is a multi award-winning jazz musician who is as well known for his funny novels as his cool music. After living in New York, he returned to Oz to sit for a degree at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. He continued his studies and has a Masters Degree (Hons) and in 2014 was awarded a Doctorate. He first hit the jazz scene with the mighty Hammond B3 Organ – one of the few exponents of this classic 60s jazz sound in Australia. It earned him a record contract with EMI Records – one of the few Australian jazz artists to be signed to a major.

The Gentlemen of Jazz are a six piece band of highly acclaimed musicians. Harry Harman founded the Sydney Jazz Club in 1953. Harry became the banjo player with the Graeme Bell All Stars in 1962 shortly after it was formed. Harry has performed in several bands and now fronts Harry Harman’s Gentlemen of Jazz and brings his wealth of jazz experiences to the Coast courtesy of the Central Coast Jazz League Sunday 21, Central Coast Leagues Club, 2.30pm p

Paul Baker Trio

Junkyard Cats A rollicking band covering blues from the 50s and 60s as well as acoustic blues from earlier times. Expect upbeat fingerpicking or slide National guitar mixed with banjo, bass, soaring harmonica and gravelly vocals. Saturday y 20,, Hotel Gosford,, 11pm p

Jesse Morris Band Dust Digger Blues Dust Digger Blues is a combination of Vanessa Adams and Michael Blue Dalton’s soulful vocals, harmonica, slide and resonator guitars. Vanessa has performed with a number of notable musicians including Mark Featherstone (Voodoo Chillies, slide guitarist), Keith Miles (Apparition, guitarist, jazz bass, songwriter), Pat Dow and Keith Hall. Blue contributed bluesy harmonica and slide guitar as a member of the Lighthouse Keepers, the Honeys, Blumenintahls as well as contributions to the Triffids, Killjoys and Eva Trout. Blue has now also returned to his first love of blues and blues inspired music playing harmonica and finger picking, bottleneck and lap steel resonator guitars. y 19,, Hotel Gosford,, 6pm p Friday

Greg Bowles

Dorian Mode

Harry Harman's Gentlemen of Jazz

Coming all the way from Western Australia, toe-tapping Australian singer and multiinstrumentalist Greg Bowles celebrates a spirited spectrum of authentic 1920s and ‘30s blues music with his rollicking renditions of tunes by his own personal Delta blues heroes such as Charley Patton, Robert Johnson and Mississippi Fred McDowell. Greg accompanies himself on guitar and slide guitar as well as banjo and mandolin in order to freshen up traditional blues melodies and rhythms and spellbind modern audiences through vibrant live performances and recordings. His emotionally-charged, authentic blues singing style punctuates his intuitive interpretations that show years of immersion in the blues and an infectious passion for the genre. Friday 19, Hotel Gosford, 8.30pm Sunday 20, Central Coast Leagues Club, 12 noon Sunday 21, Hotel Gosford, 3pm – Slide guitar workshop

Byron Bay based Jesse Morris Band are in Gosford travelling after doing shows in Coffs Harbour and Narooma on a very busy weekend. 2015 was a huge year for the Jesse Morris Band with over 140 shows across 6 states. 2016 will see a string of new releases including a new single in Feb, EP in April, and an album July as well as a tour of Germany, UK, NZ and Canada through July-August. The Jesse Morris Band present a positive, uplifting, energetic live show full of good vibrations and quality players. Jesse has also spent the last 12 months fundraising for an Island school off the coast of Cambodia, donating 50% of all CD sales and a portion of ticket sales towards the Island’s first school. See them while you can. Sunday y 21,, Hotel Gosford,, 6.15pm p

Johnny Devilseed Formed in late 2010 by guitarist Hayden Maskey and blues harpist Paul “Old Man Rubes” Rubie, this hard rocking duo have been doin’ the rounds about town, constantly blowin’ the doors off joints every time they perform. With a huge repertoire of songs from the old timey era, to the modern blues of today, their shows have been described by many as a, “ full on, hardcore, foot to the floor, theatrical blues extravaganza”. So come on down to a Johnny Devilseed show near you, and melt the soles off ya shoes with some good old fashioned rockin’ blues. Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 1pm – Loop pedal workshop Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 6pm Sunday 21, Gosford Golf Club, 3.15pm

Paul Baker is a soloist banjoist/vocalist specialising in old jazz tunes from the 20’s & 30’s---”the Great American Songbook”. He’s been doing this for 46 years, having toured China with Graeme Bell, played at jazz festivals in the US with Geoff. Power, and freelanced for almost 40 years. Paul has been a member of Paul Furniss’ San Francisco Jazz Band for 38 years and still plays with him in a trio every Sunday at the Gosford Markets. Paul will perform with Jim Elliott on bass sax as he has done for 26 years this way and will add a sax to the group for his performances at GosBlues 2016. Saturday 20, Central Coast Hotel, 4pm Sunday 21, Hotel Gosford, 1pm - Banjo set-up for jazz workshop Sunday y 21,, West Gosford RSL,, 3.30pm p

Mimosa Mimosa is a Sydney born and bred, guitar and violin duo that is of international standard. Its members, Phoebe O’Shea and Morgan Haselden, met whilst studying, with scholarships, at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Over time, Mimosa were not happy playing only classical music, and they now perform music from vastly different genres, most noticeably the gypsy jazz music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli, which now has a permanent place in the Mimosa repertoire and deep within their swinging hearts. Mimosa have performed in the highly esteemed Sydney Opera House main stage and on cruise ships around the Mediterranean, Caribbean and the rivers of inland France. They have lived in Paris, where their music led them to meet some of the gypsy jazz greats and to play in venues where the great Django Reinhardt used to regularly perform. Friday 19, Central Coast Leagues Club, 10pm Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 2pm, Gypsy Jazz accompaniment workshop Saturday 20, Central Coast Leagues Club, 10pm y 21,, Central Coast Leagues g p Sunday Club,, 5pm

Phil and Trudy Edgeley Coming to Gosford from country Victoria, Phil’s music draws upon influences ranging from Delta Blues masters such as Robert Johnson, Fred McDowell and Skip James, to contemporary artists such as Chris Whitley, Jeff Lang and Chris Smither, and of course, from his English background taking in the styles of Richard Thompson, John Renbourn, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. Now add Trudy Edgeley, an Australian Singer Songwriter, hailing from a rich musical background founded in both her family’s strong Gospel lifestyle and her rich heritage, which is a melting pot of cultures. Saturday 20, Hotel Gosford, 9.45pm Sunday y 21,, West Gosford RSL,, 1pm p

Slightly Off

Muma Jane Blues Band Muma Jane Blues Band has been around since 2000. They cover a wide selection of rhythm and blues performing material from Chicago Blues to blues rock. They pump out a big sound and create a great groove for dancing. “After all, isn’t that what music was designed for, created in juke joints and road houses, and matured in the urban club land, for people to let their hair down after a hard day’s work”, said lead singer Jane StewartKemble.. Friday 19, Hotel Gosford, 11pm

A refreshingly different Central Coast musical act. Come spend some time in the slightly off world of Slightly Off, where you can hear great old tales about great old whales, tango ’til you’re sore to the haunting sigh of an amplified saw, dance along with magically animated gypsy bones and listen in on the conversations of dead lovers. Add to that a selection of highly entertaining songs from the 1920s as well as contemporary artists such as Tom Waits and you’ll be thoroughly entertained. Saturday 20, Union Hotel, 5.15pm Saturday 20, Central Coast Leagues Club, 11.15pm Sunday 21, West Gosford RSL, 4.45pm

Sugarcane Collins - 2014 Australian Blues Singer of the Year From the cane field pubs of Queensland to the honky tonks of New Orleans and juke joints of the Mississippi Delta, Sugarcane performs his potent no frills blues with an emotional intensity and raw abandon that only the very best bluesmen achieve. He is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most distinctive and original blues artists. Playing dynamic hard driving guitar, he moves fluidly through an array of blues styles from down home delta to ragtime to swing to Chicago shuffles, but it’s his big soulful voice that will knock you out. When Sugarcane sings the blues you’ll see the passion in his face, the fire in his eyes, the veins in his neck! But it is not just as a singer and guitar picker that Collins has made a name for himself. Few songwriters can match his vivid storytelling. Not for him the simple blues love songs so regularly employed by others. The former Queensland Songwriter of the Year has so much more to say. Sunday, y, Gosford Golf Club,, 4.30pm p

Two Buck Blues Band Formed from members of the Central Coast Blues Society, Two Buck Blues Band play country and jazz oriented blues. The line-up varies and usually includes guitars, harmonica, drum and bass with a percussionist and a violin often joining the group Saturday 20, Central Coast Hotel, 6.30pm

GosBlues

2016 6 Venues Free Entry 26 Acts - 80 Artists

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P19 9

Students see consequences of risk taking behaviour

Health

New defibrillator for The Lakes Surf Lifesaving Club

tudents from Wyong High School were the first to attend a dynamic in-hospital trauma injury prevention program at Gosford Hospital in the second week of February.

The Prevention of Alcohol and RiskRelated Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y.) Program is a one day program that allows students to see firsthand the consequences of risk-taking behaviours in everyday life. During the program, students heard from doctors, nurses, allied health staff and paramedics on the harsh reality of poor choices. They spent time in intensive care and

rehabilitation areas to understand how it feels to have a severe injury or disability, and heard from a local 20-year-old man who sustained spinal injuries from a motor vehicle collision. “Too many families and young lives are affected by death and disability as a result of trauma that could easily have been prevented,” said Dr Reed. “As well as the trauma service, many

departments and services across the district from physiotherapy to organ donation, are supporting this program in the hope that it will make a positive difference. International studies have shown that exposing students to the consequences of risky behaviour reduces the number of risk-related injuries,” he said. Media release, Feb 5, 2016 Casey Virgin, Central Coast Local Health District

Grants to benefit residents with a disability

n allocation of $2,400 from Wyong Council’s annual Community Improvement Grants has been made to two local community groups to deliver enhanced services for residents with a disability.

The House with No Steps will use its funds to purchase a projector and screen to run a disability woodworking workshop. Disability access to the All Saints Anglican Church will be greatly enhanced when they build a new ramp with

funding of $1,600. Every year, council allocates an annual budget for councillors to recommend the donation of funds to individuals and to local service, charitable or community organisations, that operate in the Shire or provide

a benefit specifically to residents of the Shire. This year’s budget is just over $155,000 with each councillor getting an equal share. Media release, Feb 10, 2016 Wyong Council media

The grant will be used to replace the club's oxygen and defibrillator equipment

he Lakes Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) has received a grant from the Wallarah 2 Community Foundation.

The grant has helped to fund a new oxygen and defibrillator (AED) kit to support the surf club during the busy summer season. The new oxygen and defibrillator kit has replaced the club’s outdated equipment which was showing signs of significant wear. Sean Leicester, president of The Lakes SLSC said: “Our lifesavers have endured a busy season so far, having already conducted 33 rescues and prevented many more from getting into difficulty. “We’ve used the kit on a few occasions so far this season, including on a suspected spinal injury patient, a dislocated shoulder and a severe allergic reaction to a bluebottle sting. “Our members have also been tasked to four emergency response call outs that occurred outside of standard operating hours. “The members who respond to these incidents always ensure that they take the Oxy-Defib kit

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with them. “Thankfully, we have not needed to use the defibrillator yet,” he added. Lakes Beach is a hugely popular destination, attracting upwards of 1,000 visitors during a busy summer day. “Our lifesavers are committed to ensuring that members of the public can enjoy this public space safely and responsibly. “Part of this commitment requires access to cutting edge first aid equipment to ensure that we can provide the best support possible. “We would like to thank Wallarah 2 Community Foundation for providing

us with the funding to purchase updated equipment, this could truly mean the difference between life and death for some of the people we rescue,” added Mr Leicester. Community manager of the Wallarah 2 Coal Project Mr Peter Smith said: “It’s important to us that the community members that enjoy Wyong’s beaches remain safe when entering the water and the volunteer lifesavers at The Lakes SLSC play an essential role in ensuring this,” Mr Smith said. Media release, Feb 10, 2016 Katey Small, Brilliant Logic

Pilates Studio

BARRE CLASSES

Education

P20 P2 20 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Council welcomes scholarship Market forces should not apply and internship students to education Harris

cholarship students for 2016 were welcomed and 2015 scholarship and internship students were congratulated by Wyong Council at a ceremony on February 2.

Council’s education scholarship program, for local first and second year university students, provides $2,500 to four students, who also spend four weeks (140 hours) carrying out paid work experience in a range of council departments over 12 months. The intern program offers 12 months of paid work experience, 21 hours a week, for eight university students in the final two years of their degree. At the completion of the programs, students are required to put pen to paper and detail their

lacing vocational training in private hands could lead to future generations of Central Coast tradespeople being poorly qualified, according to member for Wyong, Mr David Harris MP.

P Wyong Council scholarship winners

time within the ranks of Wyong Council. Through these reports, Council identifies areas for improvement, not only for the programs, but in many functional aspects of Council’s day to day operation. The number of Wyong residents with university

qualifications is less than half the state average so the scholarship and internship programs are aimed to inspire locals to stay committed to their studies. Council’s human resources manager, Ms Kellie Reeves said the programs serve a dual

purpose of encouraging tertiary education while assisting students to get a head start in their chosen careers. “Open to local high school graduates and students who have completed their first year of university, this program encourages students to continue their education and look towards their future“, she said. “Our internship program differs in that it is open to third or fourth year students, helping to actively equip them with the skills and hands-on experience needed to get their foot in the door of a very competitive workforce. “Both programs provide financial support to pursue tertiary study which may otherwise be unattainable for individuals”, she said. Media release, Feb 9, 2016 Wyong Council media

Mr Harris condemned the NSW Government following news that private training colleges would be allowed to bid to deliver Vocational Education and Training (VET) HSC courses in NSW schools. The NSW Department of Education will put out a tender in April inviting private training colleges to bid for school courses in 10 areas, including business services, construction, environmental management, health services, tourism, and hospitality and recreation services. NSW TAFE has been delivering vocational training to HSC students, with 24,000 students completing a training course as a part of their studies in 2014 alone. “Allowing the privatisation of vocational training in our schools will only see profits being put before best quality training outcomes for our HSC students.” Mr Harris said. “The Wyong electorate has one of the highest proportions of construction workers in NSW and I’m concerned that if we let

our vocational training standards slip, our next crop of tradespeople could end up poorly trained”. “The fact that the education minister, Mr Adrian Piccoli has refused to comment on this matter speaks for itself”, Mr Harris continued. “The minister needs to reverse this decision to ensure that TAFE remains the priority VET provider in our high schools. “The decision to open up vocational education for HSC courses to private operators is purely ideological and a part of Mike Baird’s ongoing efforts to dismantle our TAFE. “This is not something driven by educators, or in the best interests of children. “It is driven by the obsession that market forces should apply to education. “With the number of private providers that have been deregistered, do we risk HSC students having their qualifications cancelled like we’ve seen in Victoria?” Mr Harris asked. Media Release, Feb 1, 2016 Jake Allen, office of David Harris

The Fletcher Gallery ART SALE 30% OFF ORIGINAL PAINTINGS

10am-5pm 17 Dolly Ave Springfield www.zoefletcher.com or call Zoe Fletcher on 0497 766 522

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P21 1

Education

Free permaculture seminar

Outstanding Aboriginal education program at Northlakes he Aboriginal Education Team at Northlakes High School, after listening to students, parents and community feedback, are working on some great initiatives this year.

Aboriginal dance groups will run for both boys and girls. “We are excited that we have grown to two very talented dance groups that practice every Thursday morning,” said Ms Simone Byrnes, Northlakes High School Aboriginal coordinator. The school’s Didge Group saw some of the boys take up the challenge of learning this difficult to play instrument. “The boys got a lot out of the classes and I’m told there were lots of great conversations that went along with the learning,” Ms Byrnes said. The group performed at many events and are highly sought after in the community. Brospeak will also be held on Tuesdays, alternating with guest speakers, information on culture, and hands on activities. Aboriginal Art groups have also grown, with

us now having a large boys group operating on Tuesdays. These groups are working on entries for the Reconciliation Art Competition at Gosford Regional Gallery. Competition between the groups is quite fierce. Junior Norta Norta Tutoring has started supporting Aboriginal students in literacy and numeracy from within the classroom. Quicksmart runs three days a week, with Auntie Jo Spain supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in years 7 and 8 in the Quicksmart Maths Program. Senior Norta Tutoring will continue this year for senior students. “Each of our senior students has been allocated about 50 hours each for individual tutoring for this year. “During term one, all Aboriginal students will

be invited to undertake leadership training and then our school will elect a Jnr AECG executive. “This is a great opportunity for all of our students to meet members of our community and learn valuable leadership skills so that they can lead in the future and have a stronger say in their own education. Other upcoming events this semester include a year seven site visit, Star struck Aboriginal Ensemble, I-Believe Program, NSW Aboriginal Dance Ensemble Auditions, completion of new Aboriginal spaces, (a senior study area and a new Aboriginal Community and Student room), sorry day assembly and a reconciliation art competition. Newsletter, Feb 12, 2016 Simone Byrnes, Northlakes High School

Student welfare worker to continue at Budgewoi

Michele Margolis

ermaculture Central Coast (PCC) will host a free seminar, ‘Saving Seeds the Basis of Food Security’, on Tuesday, March 15 at the Tuggerah Hall on ANZAC Pde.

Ms Michele Margolis will deliver the seminar which will cover the advantages of seed saving, the ways in which plants produce seed, and the best ways to harvest seed. PCC activities coordinator, Ms Alexia Martinez said: “Ms Margolis is a very active educator and mentor in Australian permaculture spheres and a strong voice and living example

for producing food from locally saved seeds. “Permaculture Central Coast is a not-forprofit, member-based organisation. “We educate, share experience and knowledge, and help develop a sustainable lifestyle using permaculture ethics and principles. “We hold monthly information evenings where we introduce a

range of guest speakers and permaculture activities. “Permaculture is a system that leads to positive environmental outcomes for the planet and its inhabitants, human or otherwise, and ultimately to a truly sustainable future. Media release, Feb 10, 2016 Alexia Martinez, Permaculture Central Coast

Road safety program for students in place he RYDA Road Safety Program commences on Monday, March 7 at the Wyong Race Club and will run until Friday, March 18.

This one-day per school operating for many years Munmorah (March 7); udgewoi Public School has been successful in applying for a specifically and are very appreciative Northlakes (March 9); student welfare worker, through the chaplaincy program, for program targets year 11 students of the assistance of McKillop College (March another three years.

Mr Brad Nelson will continue to work for 10 hours per week in this role, supporting students and families.

The school thanked Ms Caroline Richardson, former P and C treasurer, who volunteered to do all the administration for the

program at no charge to the school. Newsletter, Feb 1, 2016 Kerry Moore, Budgewoi Public School

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

$7 per Night Come and join in on the fun! No partner necessary No special clothes - just soft shoes Lively music New dancers welcome

Contact Janice on 4388 8 2253 Contact Sandra on 4392 8716

who are just beginning to drive to assist them in becoming safe drivers. All local high schools have been contacted and many have booked already. RYDA has been

Central Coast Rotarians who each year volunteer their time to help with the successful running of this program. The following high schools have already booked for 2016: Lake

14); Tuggerah Lakes (March 17); Wadalba Community (March 18). Newsletter, Feb 7, 2016 Chris Tyler, Central Coast RYDA Road Safety

In Australia, over 44,000 young people are homeless.* Young people under 25 make up almost 45% of the overall homeless population. ‡

Of this number, only 1 in 7 ZLOO ¿QG D EHG LQ D KRPHOHVV service system on any one night. Our young people need your support now! To reach out to a young person in need, please call our donation hotline on 1800 06 22 88 or donate online at www.youthoffthestreets.com.au. *ABS, 2008; Counting the Homeless, 2006; Australian Census Analytic Program. ‡ActNow.com.au, 2010.

Youth Off the Streets is a registered charity helping the nation’s most disadvantaged youth to turn their lives around.

www.youthoffthestreets.com.au

Out&About

P22 P2 22 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Speed limits reduced on Brush and Anderson Rds

180 attend Hollows for Habitat event reater Sydney and Hunter Local Land Services and Greater Sydney Local Land Services combined for a Hollows for Habitat event on Tuesday, February 9.

G From left Mr Eric Nelson and Ms Genny Nelson with Mr David Mehan member for The Entrance

peed zone changes along Brush Rd Ourimbah and Anderson Services recommended Rd Glenning Valley have been welcomed by member for The a significant drop in the limit. Entrance, Mr David Mehan MP.

The reduced speed limits took effect on February 1 and aimed to make the accident-prone roads safer. Two deaths along the roads in the past two

years, as well as multiple accidents and injuries, prompted residents to approach Mr Mehan’s office with a petition to see if improvements could be made.

Before the speedzone review took place, the road’s classification allowed for speeds of up to 100km per hour. The review conducted by Roads and Maritime

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The new limit varies between 60km per hour and 70 km per hour. In addition, Wyong Council agreed to renew signage and install raised pavement-markers along the road to better contain traffic within the lanes. New signage was to be installed throughout February. “This is a great win for the community,” Mr Mehan said. “I have been working with residents from Ourimbah and Glenning Valley since before the election to see these dangerous roads reviewed. “Brush Rd is being used by locals in growing numbers as a shortcut between Ourimbah and Killarney Vale. “With more use comes the need to focus on the road’s safety standards. “I’d like to thank Ms Genny and Mr Eric Nelson of Glenning Valley who originally approached me about this issue. “These works will go a long way to improving safety along this road and I will continue to work with council, RMS and residents to see improvements made.”

Media release, Feb 2, 2016 David Mehan, member for The Entrance

The event included live demonstrations of habitat creation, guest speakers and expert advice on the role of nest boxes in providing habitat for endangered wildlife. About 180 attended the event, ranging from members of council and professionals, to private land owners and university students. Ms Maree Whelan of Wyong Local Land Services described the event as a great outcome. “Key speakers included experts in habitat restoration and other areas. “There were two from the office of environment and heritage, a representative from the community group Cole Point from Lake Macquarie, and a few members of Wyong Shire Council,” she said. “The live demonstration was by an arborist who showed how

you can augment hollows into trees,” Ms Whelan said. Ms Whelan explained that hollows can take over 100 years to naturally form but a number of trees that age have been cleared because of development. “Gliders, possums and the powerful owl, which is threatened on the Central Coast, are some tree dwelling animals that need hollows or nest boxes,” she said. Ms Whelan said the event was held to raise awareness about problems in terms of how many hollow trees are left in the area and “how we need to protect what we have left to provide local habitat for local tree dwelling animals.” Media release, Feb 5, 2016 Local Land Services Sydney Interview, Feb 10, 2016 Maree Whelan, Local Land Service Wyong Victoria Power, journalist

Art showcase at Gorokan he Toukley and Districts Art Society will showcase the Wyong Shire art scene at the Federation Gallery and Information Centre, Gorokan.

Paintings in oil, acrylics, watercolour and pastel, as well as porcelain, hand painted silk, craft work, jewellery and original cards will be on display. The Federation Gallery and Information Centre is

open seven days a week with all artwork for sale. The gallery now has a coffee shop. Entry is free and donations are welcome. Email, Feb 9, 2016 Helen Morrison, Toukley Art Society

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P23 3

Out&About

Breakfast with the birds Free community family fair he Community Environment Networks (CEN) hosted a ‘Breakfast with the Birds’ to celebrate World Wetlands Day 2016 at the Central Coast Wetlands, Tuggerah on Saturday, January 30.

As well as enjoying a buffet breakfast, participants took part in activities such as talks about wetlands, water quality monitoring, a bird spotting walk, dip-netting for water bugs, nursery tours, native plant and weed ID walk, lucky door prizes and displays relating to the CEN’S many environmental projects. World Wetlands Day is celebrated on February 2 each year and marks the anniversary of the

signing of the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971. It was first celebrated in 1997. Wetlands are often viewed as wasteland with more than 64 per cent of wetlands disappearing since 1990. If managed well, wetland ecosystems and their biodiversity play a role in the mitigation of climate change, specifically in terms of their role as water storage

areas, and as buffers against storms, as they can sequester carbon dioxide. Wetlands also provide services such as filtering water, acting as nursery areas for fish, helping to control floods, and as places for recreation, with these services valued in the trillions of dollars by economists. Media Release, Jan 22. 2016 Samantha Willis, Community Environment Network

Car show at The Entrance

Families are getting ready for the Wyong Community Fair

yong Community Family Fair will be held on Saturday, March 12 at Wyong Christian Community School.

The day will include food stalls, entertainment, prizes, show bags and free rides. The event aims to provide an affordable and fun afternoon for all ages. Volunteers from the church and school are helping stage the event with creative performances from the

children also taking place on the day. Families pastor at Wyong Baptist Church, Ms Kirsten Long said that she wants the community to know they are always welcome on site and she understands the financial pressures many families face in trying to provide positive recreational

activities that allow for quality time together. “We just want to bless local families,” she said. Entry to the event, sponsored by Wyong Christian Community School and Wyong Baptist Church, is free. Email, Feb 9, 2016 Leigh Dart, Wyong Baptist Church

Photo: Brad Martin

he Summer City Rumble car show is expected to include 250 hot rods, rat rods, Harley Davidson motorcycles and other models of cars.

The car show, now in its eight year, will be held at The

Entrance Memorial Park on Sunday, February 14.

Japanese taiko + African djembe drumming. 2016 enrolments now open. Term 1 begins Monday 15th February www.therhythmhut.com.au

DJ Marty and the Flattrakkers will perform on the Memorial Park stage and a dance floor will be in place . Retro specialty stores will be selling memorabilia. A show and shine presentation will also be held. Media release, Jan 29, 2016 Donna Judge, The Entrance Town Centre The Greens The Entrance - Warrigal St, The Entrance NSW 2261 - 02 4332 5955 WEB - www.thegreenstheentrance.com.au FB - www.facebook.com/thegreenstheentrance

Not for Profit Organisations Animal Care Central Coast Cat Care $20 Desexing Special Cats only No Pedigrees 4388 6448 4325 3163

Bushwalking National Parks Association Central Coast Twice weekly bush walks on the Central Coast and further afield, varying distances and grades of difficulty. Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, floral, history. Keep fit and make friends. 4389 4423 & 4332 7378

Community Groups Bateau Bay Men’s Shed Environment for mature aged men to repair items, share and learn skills and socialize 9am to 1.30pm Tue to Thur 1 Bay Village Road, Bateau Bay 0435 807 633 bateaubayshed@gmail.com

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre Come and join our regular activities, indoor bowls, mahjong, walking for pleasure, slimmers support, hand and foot Bolivia cards, Toy library and community garden 4388 5801 manager@bvnc.org.au www.bvnc.org.au

Central Coast Community Legal Centre The Central Coast Community Legal Centre is a non-profit organisation located in Wyong that provides free legal advice to people within the Wyong / Gosford area. Intake times for legal advice Tue 10-12pm, Wed 10-12pm, Thur 2-4pm 4353 4988 Fax 4353 4680 admin_cclc@clc.net.au

PO Box 246 Wyong NSW 2259

rotarytheentrance@gmail.com

Central Coast Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Service Do you have issues with your landlord or real estate agent? Free telephone advice and advocacy for all tenants and residents in residential parks. 4353 5515 cctaas@hotmail.com

Gambling Solutions Gambling help counsellors providing free confidential professional service to gamblers, family and friends Available Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford and The Entrance 4344 7992

Lake Munmorah Senior Citizens Club Computer Classes for beginners and advanced. Come and join regular activities: dancing, exercise, pilates, yoga, craft, carpet bowls and Tai Chi. 4358 8390 Long Jetty Senior Citizens Club Beginner classes being held in computers, line dancing, tai chi and zumba gold. Contact the Club 4332 5522 M-F, 9am to 3pm for full list of activities Long Jetty Over 50s Club Come along and join in our activities, great for indoor bowls, computers, exercises, yoga, linedancing, tai chi and more 4332 5522 9am to 3pm Mingaletta Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Corporation The Mingaletta community centre provides its members and other community groups a meeting place and referral hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs through consultative services and community programs. Mon-Fri 9am 4pm 6 Sydney Ave Umina 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

Central Coast 50+ Singles Social Group Invites Ladies & Gents for dinner, dancing - BBQs & Socialising each w/e. Our friendly group can be contacted for our monthly programme all areas of the coast 4396 3640 0437 699 366 50pssg@gmail.com

Central Coast Over 30s Social Group Inc We offer social contact, entertainment events & new friendships for people in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s & 60’s etc. Our events range from; Live Music, House Parties, Restaurant Nights, BBQ’s/Picnics, Trips Away & lots more. For a FREE calendar call call 0422 243 101 email cco30s@live.com.au

benefits@nswja.org.au

The Rotary Club of the Entrance Inc. A small, friendly and effective club supporting many local organisations, and international Rotary Activities. Always welcoming new members, men and women, to help us to help others. Meetings 6pm for 6.30 pm each Tues – Mingara Recreation Club 4367 6540

4321 0275 www.centralcoast.betterhearing australia.org.au

Torchbearers for Legacy Toukley Raising funds for Brisbane Waters Legacy. Fundraising activities Harry Moore Golf Day, Garage markets and street stalls. Volunteers always needed to help. 2nd Mon 9.30am Norah Head Legacy Accure 0414 701 489

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Gosford) Meet last Friday Month Terrigal Uniting Church 380 Terrigal Drive, Terrigal 9.30am to 12 noon 4367 9600

hartas@bigpond.net.au

www.pcfa.org.au

Volunteering Central Coast Refer potential volunteers to community organisations and provide support to volunteers and community organisations. we also provide training to volunteers and managers of volunteers Information Sessions “Bridge to Volunteering” Held regulary across the Central Coast 4329 7122

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Wyong) Meet last Monday Month Toukley RSL Club, Holmes Ave Toukley 10.00am to 12 noon 4356 9300

recruit@volcc.org.au

Wrap with Love Knitting blankets for cold humanity. Knitted blankets warm the heart of those who give and those who receive. Donations of 8ply yarn gratefully received. Long Jetty: 4333 4353 Toukley 4399 3351 Wyong Neighbourhood Centre Supporting disadvantaged vulnerable and isolated members of our community offering a range of community services, events, projects, workshops, arts programs and an open community garden. 4353 1750 Wyong Toastmasters Club Come along, be part of a vibrant, progressive group. Conquer your fears of public speaking in a supportive learn-by-doing environment. 10.30am - 1st, 3rd and 5th Friday Wyong RSL Anzac Ave Wyong 1030am 4328 8297 j pp @ joppa@theorchards.com.au

The NSW Justices Association Inc Are you a JP? The NSW Justices Association is seeking volunteers for 6 community JP Desks in Wyong Shire Free Insurance and training provided 0418 493 388

P24 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

Garden Clubs Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Club Meets on the 3rd Sat each month from 1pm to 3.30pm Charmhaven Community Centre - Plants for Sale, Raffles, afternoon tea 0401 544 052 4399 2420

Health Groups Better Hearing Australia Central Coast Hearing loss management Support and educational group - 7 groups across the coast - Providing practical experience and confidence Learn the benefits to hearing aids - Better Hearing Australia Central Coast

www.pcfa.org.au

GROW - Free weekly 12 Step Self Help Group for people wishing to recover from anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. New group opening at Wyong, McInnon Hall, Bakers Lane on Tuesday 28 April, 11.00am to 1.00pm. All welcome. Phone 1800 558 268 or 0455 086 890 for more details or www.grow.org.au

Northern Women’s Health Centre We offer family law advice, counselling, therapeutic and social groups, workshops, domestic violence and abuse issues. All services are provided by women for women 4351 1152 www.cccwhc.com.au

ParaQuad Specialist healthcare products delivered to your door, for all your continence, wound care and respiratory and nutrition requirements Professional Clinic Support available 1300 886 601 www.brightsky.com.au g y

Music Doyalson-Wyee RSL Sub Branch Youth Club Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom Dancing classes from 4yrs old and up Classes held at the Youth Club - Monday afternoons 5pm mathewmoshou80@gmail.com

JAZZLEAGUE

Live Jazz Bands - Come to listen, Come to dance Free - Every Sun Central Coast Leagues Club Gosford 2-5pm www.jazzleague.net

Soundwaves Men’s acapella 4 part harmony chorus - all ages 7pm Mon Central Coast Leagues Club John 0413 276 698 jbthomson51@gmail.com

Tuggerah Lakes Showband An enthusiastic groupo of people who play brass instrumnts, meet every Tuesday and Thursday to rehearse their crowd-

pleasing music and play at communioty events

Service Groups

Band Hall located in Park Road The Entrance (north end)

Northern Settlement Services - Volunteers

Tues 7.30pm Thur 6.30pm 0407 406 669

Political Groups Australian Labor Party Ourimbah/ Narara Branch Discussion/action community issues 3 levels of Government Niagara Park Primary School 7.30pm 1st Mon each month 0410 309 494 kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com

NSW Labor Party The Entrance Day Branch is the local day branch for the NSW Australian Labor Party. Monthly meetings to discuss and debate policy as well as campaign for local labor candidates and Members of Parliament. We are always happy to welcome new members and guests. Come along and see for yourself. 2nd Tues 2pm The Entrance Leagues Club 4332 2907 Warnervale Branch - NSW Labor Party To support and promote NSW Labor within the Warnervale area to give a voice to those who find it difficult to use their own. 1st Tue 7pm monthly Hamlyn Terrace Community Centre 0419 128 497 warnervale.labor@gmail.com @g

Probus Clubs Bateau Bay Ladies Probus Club We offer a warm welcome, friendship and interesting speakers. 4th Mon every month RSL Hall Killarney Vale 4332 6625 Toowoon Bay Probus Club Come and meet new friends and enjoy the company of like-minded Seniors. Morning tea provided, guest speakers talking on topics relevant to Seniors, as well as regular exciting social events. 4th Thur each month 10am. Anglican Church hall, corner of Brooke Ave and Eastern Rd Bateau Bay New members welcome. 4334 3979 Tuggerah Combined Probus Club Inc 4351 0450 New to the Coast? If you would like to meet new friends and enjoy social events, a welcome awaits you at Tuggerah Combined Probus Club each 2nd Thur at 10:30am, where you will have the opportunity to hear various guest speakers and also join us in a social outing on the 3rd Thursday. We meet at Woodbury Park Community Hall, Mardi.

Volunteers needed for friendly visits to the elderly in nursing homes. People with a second language encouraged to apply. Training support provided 4334 3877 cvscc@nsservices.com.au

Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Volunteers wanted, challenging conditions, interupted meals, early starts, breathtaking tuggerah lakes views. Rewards: - Saving distressed boaters or maybe save a life 0488 442 051 uc.tuggerahlakes@ marinerescuensw.com.au

Special Interest Brisbane Water Caravan Club

Located on the Central Coast and looking for new members www.bwcaravanclub.wix.com/bwcc

4344 4363 Biz Plus Networking Association Attention business owners - are you keen to grow your business and in the process build worthwhile relationships? Then why not attend a Biz Networking breakfast? Every Thur 7:15am - 9am Erina Leagues Club Geoff Neilson network@bizplus.com.au Central Coast Lapidary Club Minerals & Gems Learn silverwork, Cabochons, Faceting, Enamelling, Stone Fieldtrips & fossicking Weekly Workshops Tues and Thurs 830am-230pm Thurs evening 6-10pm 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah 4362 2246 Central Coast Lapidary Club Minerals & Gems

Learn silverwork, Cabochons, Faceting, Enamelling, Stone Fieldtrips & fossicking Weekly Workshops Tues and Thurs 830am230pm Thurs evening 6-10pm 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah 4362 2246 cclapidary@optusnet.com.au

Central Coast Soaring Club Inc Gliding Club, Learn to fly, Instruction FREE to members Come and have an Air Experience Flight All Welcome 14 and up for Training Flying at Bloodtree Road Mangrove Mountain Thur, Sat, Sun (weather permitting) 0412 164 082 0414 635 047 www.ccsoaring.com.au

Bridge Club Bridge players can enjoy a game of social bridge on Tuesdays, 9.45am1pm The Greens The Entrance with or without a partner. Len 4332 6989 David 4392 0606 Tuggerah Lakes U3A Keep your mind active and learn something new! Come to one of our classes for a couple of hours and make new friends. Long Jetty Discussions, play reading, cryptic crosswords, talks, readers group, Mahjong Toukley - Creative writing, French conversation Berkeley Vale - Music Appreciation Chitaway Bay - Movies 4390 2451 www.tugglakesu3a.info

Mingara Indoor Bowls Club The play of Indoor (Carpet) Bowls - Daily competition (singles, pairs & triples) Winner’s Prize $5 - but strongly social - Sun 9.30am Noon - Mon 6.30pm–9pm Wed 9.30am-2pm (including lunch break) Ray 4389 2567 Mingara Club 4349 7799 raymurphy1935@hotmail.com

Wyong Drama Group Inc A friendly group, presenting 3 major productions a year. We welcome anyone interested in being involved in any area of production - Acting; Backstage; Front of House; Lighting/Sound etc Monthly meetings 1st Tues. 7.30pm in the new Grove Community Centre 1300 665 600 wyongdramagroup@gmail.com yo gd a ag oup@g a co

Sport Central Coast Potters Society Dedicated to increasing the ceramics knowlede, experience and skills of members and the general public. Running classes, workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and social events. Annual exhibitions in May and December Open Day in Sept 4324 5343 info@ccpotters.org

PO Box 4043 East Gosford NSW 2250

If you would like your Community Organisa on listed here, see www.duckscrossing.org or www. centralcoastnewspapers.com for the forms or contact Central Coast Newspapers on - 4325 7369

KI-DO Mingara Judo Academy Junior boys and girls Mon and Wed Two classes 6 to 8.30pm from 7yrs $5 Lessons Kangy Angy Near Westfield 0413 237 010 www.kidomingarajudo.com.au do ga ajudo co au

Womens Groups BPW Central Coast

Empowering women of all ages in the areas of work, education, well-being and friendship. All women welcome to attend monthly dinner meetings. Be enlightened. $40 covers two course meal and speaker. Community transport available to and from centre Chris Levis 0438 989 199 bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com www.bpw.com.au/central-coast

Entries in the Not For Profit Community Organisations Directory are free. However, we require each organisation to subscribe to each newspaper to ensure that someone from that organisation keeps their entry up to date. Australia Post is about to increase their postage rates by over 42% and we can no longer continue to absorb these increases. Subscription rates have therefore needed to be increased from $50 to $75 for 25 editions commencing from December 1, 2015.

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P25 W 5

Cigarette butts top list of items littered he NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has given Wyong council a Certificate of Recognition for leadership in litter prevention in NSW.

The award is in recognition of Council’s five pronged approach to litter reduction that involves installing infrastructure; raising community awareness and educating about litter; engaging people in a sense of pride and ownership of the environment through partnerships and local involvement; maintaining an enforcement profile with a zero tolerance on littering; and, maintaining/cleaning up locations. Council staff recently

travelled across the whole Shire to research the extent of littering in each major township and undertook cleanup events in Toukley and Budgewoi with environmental action group Take 3. This research and clean-up confirmed cigarette butts continue to be the item most frequently littered with 1,878 cigarette butts collected in Budgewoi and 1,223 in Toukley. Council has installed bins specifically for the

Media release, Dec 10, 2015 Wyong Council media From left, Adam Crouch, member for Terrigal, Sam Panetta from Pullman Magenta Shores, Robyne Abernethy, and Mr Stuart Ayres minister for tourism

Wednesday, Feb 17 Wyong Council Community Shark Forum, Civic Centre, 2 Hely St, Wyong, from 10:00am, bookings essential

Thursday, Feb 18 Strategic grant writing workshop for environmental groups, Civic Centre, 2 Hely St, Wyong, bookings essential via Wyong Council website, 5:30pm to 8:30pm

Saturday, Feb 20 Soulstation, Club Wyong, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Entrance, 11:00am to 3:00pm

Wednesday, Feb 24 Social Enterprise Information session, The Entrance Community Centre Building A Battley Ave, The Entrance, 8:30am to 12:00pm Royal Australian Navy Band, Memorial Park Stage, The Entrance, 12:00pm

Friday, Feb 26 Al Showman’s Rock n Roll Comedy Show, 2 course dinner and show, The Greens The Entrance Central Coast Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Volunteer Support Group fund raising stall, Lake Haven shopping centre, 9:00am to 2:30pm Slam Tango duo, Club Wyong, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Saturday, Feb 27 Sunday, Feb 21 Shawn Lidster, The Sails Stage, The

Business and Professional Women Central Coast Woman

entral Coast Tourism will receive $280,000 from the NSW Government after successfully applying for a Regional Visitor Economy Fund (RVEF) grant to help boost visitation to the

region.

For events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263

Smart Arts, grant writing strategies for professional practitioners, Civic Centre, 2 Hely St, Wyong, bookings essential via council website, 9:00am to 3:00pm

Additional funding sourced for Central Coast Tourism

disposal of cigarette butts at Picnic Point at The Entrance and is looking to roll them out more broadly across the shire. New signage has been installed at a number of prominent locations, including The Entrance Foreshore, warning of fines, and with Council officers taking a zero tolerance approach to littering, they will be enforced.

The Wyong Diary

Tuesday, Feb 16

Out&About

of the Year gala Award Night, Mingara, bookings essential, from 6:30pm Hope Global Walk of Hope, Picnic Point Reserve, The Entrance 8:00am to 1:00pm Paul Greene, Sails Stage, The Entrance, 11:00am to 3:00pm Daryl Buttler Project, Club Wyong, 7:30pm to 11:00pm Rolling Stones Revival, Bateau Bay Bowlo, 7:30pm The Blink 182 Show, Toukley RSL, doors open 8:00pm, DJ before and after

Sunday, Feb 28 Concert with The Lakes Singers at Toukley Presbyterian Church, cnr Hargraves and Victoria Ave, 2:00pm, all proceeds to missions

Friday, Mar 4 Fab 4 and 60s Chart Toppers, Club Wyong, 8:00pm to 11:00pm

See the Peninsula News for events in post code areas 2256 & 2257 and the COAST Community News for events in post code areas 2250, 2260 and 2251 If you’ve got something happening in the Wyong Region over the next few weeks, let us know about it and we’ll list it here for you, for free. Contact details are on page 2.

Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch MP and the minister for trade, tourism and major events, Mr Stuart Ayres, announced on February 8 that the funds would go towards the next phase of the Central Coast Short Breaks campaign, which will use various promotion channels, including social media, digital marketing, and video and non-local print advertising. Mr Ayres said: “The RVEF plays a major part in creating opportunities for tourism businesses in regional NSW and I am delighted to announce

that this funding boost will go towards increasing awareness of the Central Coast as a leisure, conference and events destination. Mr Crouch said the Central Coast has been a highly popular destination for short breaks as well as client retreats, business events, weddings and conferences. Central Coast Tourism CEO, Ms Robyne Abernethy, said that she was delighted with the announcement. The RVEF was launched in 2013 to address a range of issues affecting tourism

for regional NSW and identified in the NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Industry Action Plan of 2012. The RVEF is designed to contribute to the NSW Government visitor-economy goal of doubling overnight visitor expenditure in NSW by 2020. The RVEF is managed and administered by Destination NSW and the total funds available for the 2015-16 financial year are $7.2 million. Media release, Feb 8, 2016 Debra Wales, office of Adam Crouch

Classifieds

P26 P2 26 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

PRICES FOR CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS IN THESE PAGES COME IN THREE CATEGORIES

Not For Profit Organisations Not for profit organisations’ advertisements are subsidised.

events

A mono 5cm advertisement only costs $20 + GST. Each additional cm is only an additional $4 + GST, colour is $6 + GST and a photograph or logo is an additional $6 + GST.

Private advertisements Private advertisements only cost $33. Each additional cm costs $6.60 as does colour, and a photograph or a logo. Private advertisements need to be paid for at the time of booking.

Business rates A one off advertisement only costs $40 + GST in mono and an extra $8 + GST for colour, a logo or a photograph. Advertising on an ongoing basis attracts discounts if paid for in full in advance. 3 months $215 + GST, 6 months $385 + GST, 12 months $700 + GST – Approximately $14 per week. Having the same advertisement in one of the other Central Coast Newspapers as well attracts an additional 10% discount for those advertisements. If in the third paper as well, it will attract a 15% discount which drops to $11.50 + GST per week in that paper. Artwork is free and advertisers are encouraged to change their advertisements frequently.

Antennas

Entertainment

A Better Picture

BluesAngels

Antenna & Digital Installations & Tuning New home specialist Credit cards OK HAYWARD VIDEO All areas Gosford 4323 6367 Woy Woy 4344 4414 Warnervale 1800 244 456 0412 685 555

Dance Central Coast Bush Dance & Music Association Experience Folk Music at its best at East Gosford Progress Hall @ 7.30pm Henry Parry Drive

Admission $15 incl. supper

www.ccbdma.org for more information

Enq: 4344 6484

GosfordClassifieds.com.au is one of a network of 10 websites which form one of the largest independent online classifieds network in NSW with over 350,000 annual visitors, over 80,000 online advertisements and over 15,000 business advertisements.

YOUR LOCAL

Combined online and print advertising Combined print and online packages have been created providing further discounts. Having a Gosford classifieds premium on line advertisement plus a printed advertisement in one newspaper will only cost $495 + GST for 3 months, $695 + GST for 6 months and $999 + GST for 12 months. Having it in two newspapers as well as online costs $595 + GST for 3 months, $995 + GST for 6 months and $1499 + GST for 12 months. To be in all three newspapers as well as online costs $795 + GST for 3 months, $1395 + GST for 6 months and $1899 + GST for 12 months.

See page 2 for contact details. All newspaper advertisements have a minimum of two weeks’ shelf life.

GOSFORDCLASSIFIEDS.COM.AU FOR ONLINE CENTRAL COAST CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

tomflood@hotmail.com

4324 2801

Electrician

Want to have a lot of fun, unique music at your next event? Call Leila at 0423 147 797 or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ SlightlyOffMusic

ELECTRICIAN

Finance

Same day service Guaranteed

FAST DEBT HELP

Lighting, Power Points, Phone & Data, Fault Finding,

No job too small. Seniors Discount. Lic number 265652C

4308 6771 Entertainment The Troubadour Folk & Acoustic Music Club

SATURDAY 27th FEB 7.00PM

Scott Cook Tickets $10 CWA Hall The Boulevarde Woy Woy www.troubadour.org.au

4342 6716

corporate – website – events

Daihatsu Terios All Wheel Drive Goes Well Excellent Condition 225,000km 5 speed 10 months rego Manual, towbar, electric mirrors, sound system

3250 ono 0410 522 070

Do you or your family need help to get out of a financial hole? If you are worried about losing your home or car or getting a knock on your door from a debt collector,

FAST DEBT HELP could solve your problem through this stressful time. Our Central Coast counsellor is a semi-retired executive originally from Sydney and appreciates the difficulties facing local families coping with day to day living costs. Call Bill Starr today on

4369 2299 or 0418 613 864 for a confidential consultation before it is too late

a one stop solution for all your photographic needs

VALSPIX www.valspix.com

0418 600 436

Plumbing

Quality Laminate Benchtops supplied and seconds for sale

Slightly Off

Photography CENTRAL COAST EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER

Kitchen

March 13 Bush Dance

Online classified advertising rates Online only

A premium VIP online business advertisement on GosfordClassifieds.com.au only costs $299 + GST for 3 months, $399 + GST for 6 months and, $499 + GST for 12 months. It costs a similar amount to go on any one of the other nine Sydney based websites as well, or only $1699 + GST for all sites for 12 months. The other sites cover Bondi, Manly, Newtown, Cronulla, South Sydney, St George, West Sydney, North Sydney, Wollongong and suburbs surrounding those areas. All that we require for you to have an online advertisement such as this is: 1) Heading for the advertisement; 2) Text for the body; and, 3) Up to 3 images if required i.e. logos etc.

Your total acoustic blues/roots package, top to toe, and then some. Minnie the Moocher to Eagle Rock and on into indie roots, beatnik jazz, backhills bluegrass and prog folk. Available as duo, trio or band negotiable for your party, event or venue.

For Sale

R&J Benchtops

YOUR LOCAL PLUMBER Same day service Guaranteed Blocked drains, Leaking taps and toilets, Hot water and all aspects Of pluming drainage and gas fitting. Lic number 265652C

4346 4057 Positions Vacant

Gosford

0456 884 545

Experiend Lawnmowing Tilers Eyecare wanted! Lawnmowing and Stump Grinding Services Call Jamie

0413 088 128 www.eyecarelawnmowing.com.au

Painting BUCELLO’S COASTAL PAINTING SERVICES • Residential and Commercial • Interior and Exterior • New Work and Repaints Free Quotes All work guaranteed Quality’s my game and Ryan’s my name

Start Imediately 0439 589 426 Roofing Metal roofing All aspects Gutters, Downpipes Skylights Custom flashings Growe Installations P/L

0431 136 092 0404Lic 340 570 282094c

Tiling

0410 404 664

Have a premium VIP online advertisement in gosfordclassifieds. com.au and reach thousands of viewers for only $499 + GST for 12 months

Tiling Wall & Floor Property Maintenance 0439 589 426 homes2nv@gmail.com

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P27 W 7

News

Tuggerah flooding problems are a shared responsibility

R Photo:Australian Weather Forum

Flooding at Tuggerah

Subscribe now and don’t miss an edition Peninsula Community Access

News

1 Year (25 editions) to Peninsula News $75

1 Year (25 editions) to Coast Community News $75

1 Year (25 editions) to Wyong Regional Chronicle $75

Phone: 4325 7369 - Fax: 4321 0940 120c Erina Street, Gosford To order online

www.duckscrossing.org/shop Name: Ph: Email:

Tuition - Dance

Gosford Scottish Country Dancers hold an intermediate class on Wednesdays from 7 to 10 pm at Wyoming It’s an excellent form of exercise which brings men, women and young people together socially, learning new and old dances in a very friendly relaxed atmosphere No experience or partner necessary All ages welcome Cost $7.00 per week Contact Janice on

4388 2253

egular flooding of Tuggerah businesses will not be an easy problem to solve, according to Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton OAM.

The extent of the flooding and the ‘path’ it takes is the first obstacle to overcome, according to Cr Eaton. The water goes under the Tuggerah Straight, under the railway line, into the Pioneer Dairy and all along the creek within the dairy. “To fix the problem, we will have to get four different agencies involved -- council, main roads, RMS and Pioneer Dairy,” Cr Eaton said. At the moment,

according to Cr Eaton, Wyong Council “can’t get the others to do anything about it.” He said the area would not be likely to be zoned as an industrial park under modern planning laws, but the responsible planning authority in the 1960s (“which I don’t think was the council”, said Cr Eaton), allowed the Tuggerah industrial area to be built at a lower level to anything else. Cr Eaton said Wyong Council does, and is

attempting to, assist the business owners to come up with a solution between the four entities involved in the decision making. “I am trying to organise a meeting between all the relevant parties, but my PA has been working on that for a week now and we are not getting very much feedback,” he said. Interview, Feb 12, 2016 Doug Eaton, Wyong Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

Additional funding for the removal of potentially dangerous trees

Address:

Credit Card Number: ___________________/___________________/ ______________________________________/

Exp: ______/______ Please complete credit card details or send a cheque or money order payable to

Central Coast Newspapers, PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

The Shame File

Ducks Crossing Publications has a very liberal credit policy for advertisers and realises that from time to time, people, businesses and organisations get into financial difficulty and may need assistance and time to get things back on track. However, some people, businesses and organisations take advantage of this generosity they use advertising but simply don’t pay their account after several months and need to be taken to court to do so. From time to time, as necessary, we will name these people, businesses or organisations as a warning to our readers so that they will be wary when dealing with them.

• Golden Scissors Futuretek Roofing • David Hill, Long Jetty Hairdressing, Wyong • Jessica Davis of Erina • Bakefresh, Wyong • Frazer Park Pty Ltd formerly - trading as A1 cleaning trading as The Big Prawn at services Crangan Bay • Rattananporn Massage, • Tony Fitzpatrick trading as Wyong

Wanted Cash paid for good quality swords & knives. War & movie memorabilia also shop display units For large collections home visit available

Smoking Dragon Shop 12 Ebbtide Mall 155 The Entrance Rd The Entrance 4333 8555

yong Shire Council has allocated an additional $250,000 to prioritise the removal of potentially dangerous trees on public land, following repeated storms which led to a spike in the number of requests by the community to remove trees.

Council further called on the State Government to support public safety and match this initiative, dollar for dollar, and will be seeking the assistance of local state members to make it happen. The extra injection of funding will help reduce the backlog and considerably reduce the current list of priority works. Wyong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM said,

“Our arborists simply can’t keep up with the demand and we need this extra assistance to meet the backlog. “We know the damage trees can do all too well and are taking this positive step to help protect people and property,” Cr Eaton said. Residents are encouraged to report concerns about trees on public land to Council. Council arborists

will assess the tree and prioritise trimming or removal based on the potential of danger to the public. Council are committed to keeping the Shire green and are increasing the number of trees in the Shire – planting over 20,000 on public land each year. Media release, Feb 11, 2016 Wyong Council media

ATTENTION WINTER SPORTS ORGANISERS advertise you registration dates here

Call 4325 7369 now

News

P28 P2 28 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

A Central Coast Water Authority is important for many reasons ater rates could rise across the Central Coast and the quality to. “Operating licencees of the region’s drinking water could be jeopardised if the also get regular reviews by Central Coast Water Authority is axed as part of the current IPART, including public plans to amalgamate Gosford and Wyong into a super council.

Chairman of the Community Environment Network (CEN), Mr John Asquith said it would be in the best interests of the community if responsibility for the region’s water supply was held by a Central Coast Water Authority once the new council was formed. Although Gosford and Wyong Councils currently run a joint water operation, it exists within their overall organisational structures and is not independently licensed. Mr Asquith said it may be acceptable for smaller country councils to run their local water supply as a business unit within their overall structure, but a region with a population of 330,000 and growing should have a water supply authority licensed by the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). Water authorities regulated by IPART came out of the Council of Australian Governments’ (COAG) national water initiative. “Having a corporatised authority in charge of the region’s water supply is about service standards to communities from monopolies,” Mr Asquith said. “If the control of the water supply goes back

to just being a department within the council, then the next step is that council can determine the water price without needing to go to IPART,” he said. “We know that water rates would increase by at least $22 million because that is what Wyong Council already applied to IPART for last year and got rejected.” IPART does not dictate to councils about water infrastructure, according to Mr Asquith. However, IPART does keep an eye on claims made by water authorities to justify water increases when determining the maximum price it allows them to charge. Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton said the original independent inquiry into local council mergers did state that the Central Coast Water Authority should be put into abeyance. Mr Asquith said that recommendation was only until the new council was formed and its structure and boundaries settled. In addition to price, a water authority regulated under IPART would also ensure greater quality controls were in place. A Central Coast Water Authority would have its water quality set and monitored through an operating licence, Mr

Asquith said. Using Hunter Water as an example, he said the licence ensured the water supply met Australian drinking water standards and set limits on things like the number of sewerage outages allowed in a year. “Our water is not currently subject to those requirements,” Mr Asquith said. “The standards are much higher than water supplies that are regulated by a council. “You may be able to find out how much you are paying on the Wyong website but licenced authorities will also show things like service charges and they will have a dedicated complaints phone number because they are legally required

inquiries and hearings run by IPART,” he said. “IPART could turn around to the Central Coast Water Authority and say, for example, ‘What are you doing to ensure concerns over run off coming from the landfill at Mangrove Mountain?’ and its answers would be examined in a public forum. “People could make written submissions and be able to see in a written license how those concerns are being addressed. “We don’t currently have any of those checks and balances,” Mr Asquith said. Interview, Feb 12, 2016 John Asquith, Community Environment Network

Connecting NBN on the Coast is fraught with problems he National Broadband Network is “just one big mess on the Central Coast” according to Senator for New South Wales, Deborah O’Neill.

“I have received dozens of calls to my office from people who are frustrated and annoyed at the delays and problems with the network,” she said. “The longer this government’s mess goes on, the more calls my office is receiving. “It goes beyond a frustration. “We had elderly people whose phone was disconnected for days, that situation is just downright dangerous.” Sen O’Neill said Mr Barry Egan of Noraville had taken his complaint to the ombudsman when his landline was cut-off during work to connect the NBN.

Since the company said it has fixed the problem, he has experienced faults on his phone line that did not exist before the work was done. “He has told my office there is confusion between Telstra and NBN as to whose problem it is,” she said. Sen O’Neill said Ms Mary Smith of Canton Beach made two appointments in January but no one came. “These people are very frustrated and disillusioned by this mess. “It is just one disaster after another and it is story that’s being repeated around the country. “Malcolm Turnbull’s second-rate broadband network is being delivered for double the price and in double the time,” she said. Media release, Feb 9, 2016 Scott Coomber, office of Deborah O’Neill

Abigail Boyd to stand for Greens in Dobell s Abigail Boyd has won the preselection to contest the federal seat of Dobell for the Greens in the next federal election.

Ms Boyd said she will be lobbying for strong action on climate change and a compassionate response to the global refugee crisis. Ms Boyd is a specialist in global financial regulation, working primarily from home. Her family moved to Dobell 15 years ago and her two small children now attend school in the area. Abigail is focused on improving the availability and efficiency of the Dobell electorate’s public transport network to enable commuters to access a wider range of job opportunities and to alleviate high levels of unemployment. “I believe it’s too simplistic to divide people into ‘lifters’ and ‘leaners’,” Ms Boyd said. “We are each dealt a different hand of cards and we play them as best we can. “A society that removes as many obstacles as possible to allow people to heal, to learn, to participate fully, a society

that appreciates that we will all lift and lean to some extent at different stages of our lives, is not only a fairer and more equitable place to live in, but it also enables individuals to make a greater contribution to the economy to everyone’s benefit,” Ms Boyd said. Ms Boyd will hold her campaign launch at the Tuggerah Lakes Community Centre at Bateau Bay on February 16. Federal Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon will attend the Greens Party federal election campaign launch. Media release, Feb 4, 2016 Justine Suthers, Central Coast Greens Media release, Feb 9, 2016 Justine Suthers, Central Coast Greens

Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P29 9

Sport

Mariners outplayed but off-side goal cost them a point delaide United proved too strong for the Central Coast Mariners when the two sides clashed at Central Coast Stadium on Sunday, February 14.

Despite heading into the sheds at half time with a 1-0 lead courtesy of a Fabio Ferreira strike, Adelaide United FC bagged three goals in the final 45 to snatch all three points, despite a late goal by Josh Bingham. Intense heat saw the game delayed from the original 3:00pm kick off to 7:00pm, and the southerly change cooled players off enough to ensure the clash was physical from the first minute. Both sides took to the field with a four, three, three formation resulting in a mid-field gridlock, but the Mariners’ defenders were the strongest they had been for most of the season, managing to make it through the first 30 minutes without conceding a goal. The opening half hour was a stodgy affair with the Mariners’ trying to press forward and not succeeding, while Adelaide managed to keep most of the possession and appeared to have the favour of the referee, winning five free kicks within 20 minutes of the start. At around the 20-minute mark, Mitchell Austin took off for the Mariners down the left sideline and crossed to Ferreira in a hint of what might be ahead. Jake McGing managed to keep Adelaide’s brilliant young Bruce Kamau from scoring first into what was almost an open goal, and McGing remained steadfast in his defending throughout the match. Ferreira made a solid run towards goal at minute 29.

At minute 32, taking off from the half-way line, Fabio Ferreira became the man of the moment with a brilliant solo run and goal that had the Mariners up 1-0 and looking confident in front of their 5,000-strong home crowd. Adelaide had a chance to equalise at the 41st minute, when a sloppy tackle from behind gave them another free kick. The kick went up and over the Mariner’s defensive wall, but fortunately ended in the safe arms of Izzo. Shortly after, McGing saved the day again, and the Mariners played out the remainder of the first 45 minutes pinned down in defensive mode. After only one minute of extra time, the Central Coast side was able to walk to the dressing room knowing they were a goal ahead. The second half opened with the Mariners continuing to do most of the defending and Adelaide building from the back, regulating the pace of the game and playing some attractive one-touch

football. By the 50-minute mark, the pace of the game was slow, a pass to Bruce Djite is stopped with a tackle from Poscoliero that didn’t appear to deserve the whistle, but gave Adelaide a free kick, well within range of goal. Isaias Sanchez brought home the bacon and at minute 54, the score was levelled at one goal all. The Reds had not scored a free kick this Hyundai A-League Season and Isaias stepped up to the dead ball to score their first. With precision, his free kick nestled perfectly into Izzo’s side netting. Louis Garcia almost made it through the first 60 minutes of play before being substituted by Josh Bingham. The encouraging defensive work continued from the home team, but there were too few occasions of defence being able to be built into attack and, although the Walmsley game plan was to have the defenders pushing high, Adelaide continued to keep the Mariners pinned back most of the time.

The visitors appeared to dominate possession for much more of the game than the 56 per cent of the ball they reportedly enjoyed. The home team made its second substitution at the 62nd minute mark, replacing Mitchell Neill with Francesco Stella. Adelaide put their nose in front from yet another set piece, when a corner was headed on by Dylan McGowan connected with Djite’s boot and delivered a second goal into the corner of the far post. Replays on the big screen showed that Djite was offside, but this was not called by officials. Adelaide took Marcelo Carrusca off the park just before the 70th minute and replaced him with Stefan Mauk. Adelaide’s Jordan Elsey received a yellow card, and the free kick taken by Fabio Ferreira, was the closest the Mariners got to looking like scoring during the first 30 minutes of the second half. Galekovic managed to hit the ball away and it ended up at the opposite end in the arms of Paul Izzo

within seconds. The outstanding Bruce Kamau left the field at minute 76 to be replaced by Pablo Sanchez. The Mariners made their final substitution with nine minutes to go, replacing Liam Rose with the young recruit Trent Buhajiar. The final Adelaide United substitution came just before the end of the 90 minutes with Sergio Cirio making way for Mate Dugandzic. Bingham, Stella and Buhagiar certainly put some zest back into the home side, but sloppy defence allowed Adelaide to cement their lead. It was during the first minute of extra time that Mauk, with the help of Craig Goodwin. belted home Adelaide’s final goal of the match and secured the win. The Mariners did keep fighting through the dying minutes and Josh Bingham scored just before the final whistle. Adelaide looked tired, having played four games in 14 days, but they did fly home with all three points thanks to three

second half goals to cancel out Ferreira’s opener and Bingham’s late strike. The home side’s 18-yearold midfielder, Liam Rose put in an outstanding shift that included the assist for Ferreira’s opener. During the first half, Rose was strong in midfield and it was only fitting that his pass set up the opening goal. “There’s big room for improvement for us, we caused them some problems at times and we knew we were capable of that with Mitch Austin and Fab Ferreira,” Mariner’s head coach Walmlsey said. “My understanding is that [Adelaide’s second goal] was offside, but sometimes you don’t get those, and in the situation we’re in, you really need those kinds of things to be dealt with and today it didn’t happen. “We finished the game strong, Bingham came on and did a great job up front and he showed a lot of promise. “Their second goal definitely took the wind out of our sails, and once they got past it, they finished strong. “Fran Stella hit a 20-yard volley that sizzled just over the bar, if he sticks that in we’re 2-2 and who knows what might happen. “Luis Garcia’s leadership on the pitch was great. “It’s always harder to start a game and he had some good moments and good touches, but he will build from that performance, the players just lift having him on the pitch. “Luis is having an impact on a lot of players, even the older ones”, Walmsley said. Media release, Feb 15, 2016 Tyson Scott, Central Coast Mariners Match notes, Feb 14, 2016 Jackie Pearson, journalist

Sport

P30 P3 30 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016

$500 grants to two sportsmen

Kalik to play for Hajduk Split he Central Coast Mariners’ Anthony Kalik is off to Europe to join one of the most iconic clubs in Croatian football in what is a dream come true for the young attacker.

Bryce Calderon with Ms Jill Hall, member for Shortland

wo teenagers from the Wyong shire have received Federal Government grants in recognition of their high achievements.

Nathan Doyle Bryce Calderon, 16, are competing national level in chosen sport.

and both at a their

Nathan, of San Remo, competes in cricket while Bryce, of Mannering Park, competes in softball.

T ide Char T FORT DENISON

LAT 33° 51’ S - LONG 151° 14’ E - TIME ZONE - 1000 Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

Time - Height(m) Add one hour to the times below when Daylight Saving is in force

0446 1.63 0340 1.59 0231 1.58 1134 0.48 1025 0.53 0907 0.54 TUE 1505 1.27 WED 1625 1.25 THU 1733 1.28 2315 0.55 2212 0.57 2103 0.56 0058 0.47 0010 0.51 0545 1.68 0722 1.74 0637 1.72 1230 0.42 FRI 1829 1.33 SAT 1315 0.38 SUN 1355 0.35 1955 1.43 1915 1.39 0258 0.44 0220 0.43 0141 0.45 0915 1.69 0839 1.73 0802 1.74 MON 1430 0.34 TUE 1503 0.35 WED 1534 0.37 2141 1.50 2107 1.49 2032 1.47 0452 0.53 0413 0.49 0335 0.46 1058 1.49 1023 1.57 0948 1.63 THU 1604 0.40 FRI 1634 0.44 SAT 1705 0.49 2325 1.49 2248 1.50 2214 1.51 0053 1.44 0006 1.46 0534 0.58 0719 0.67 0623 0.63 1136 1.41 SUN 1740 0.54 MON 1219 1.32 TUE 1312 1.24 1909 0.66 1820 0.60

APPROX. TIME LAG AFTER FORT DENISON Ettalong 40 min, Rip Bridge 2hrs - Wisemans Ferry 2 hrs 30 min, Koolewong 2 hrs 10 min In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated

Federal Member for Shortland, Ms Jill Hall presented the two teenagers with a grant under the Local Sporting Champions program. “It is great to see these two young men achieve such a high standard in their chosen sport,” said Ms Hall. “I know they have worked very hard to get to this level and have committed many hours of training. “Their families have also spent considerable time and money to help them train. “This is not always easy and it is therefore great to be able to offer a grant to help offset some of the costs,” Ms Hall said. The $500 grants are available to young people aged 12-18 years who are competing at a state, national or international level. The funds are designed to help with training, equipment and uniform costs. Media release, Dec 17, 2015 Lisa McDermott, office of Jill Hall

Eighteen-year-old Kalik, who is contracted to the Mariners until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 season, will play for HNK Hajduk Split under a loan agreement until at least June 2016. An Australian Institute of Sport graduate, Kalik signed with the Mariners as the youngest ever Hyundai A-League recruit at just 15 years of age, alongside Liam Rose in 2013. Head Coach Tony Walmsley was excited at the opportunity for Kalik, and noted the value of regular game time for the development of young players. “Hadjuk Split is a big club with a great history,” Walmsley said. “This is a real growth opportunity for Anthony.

“Anthony “A th hhas so much h potential, but there just aren’t enough games for players not-selected for him to develop the way we would like. “He also needs the challenge of living away from home to understand that the demands on professional footballers are global.

“This agreementt works “Thi k for the Mariners. “Anthony will return for pre-season with a great life and football experience, while there is also the opportunity for a transfer should he impress,” Walmsley said. Media release, Feb 1, 2016 Tyson Scott, Central Coast Mariners FC

Under-17s boys and girls tournament added to Sevens he inaugural under-17s boys and girls tournament will be launched at the 2016 Central Coast Rugby Union Sevens tournament in October.

Several high-level nominations have already been received and the tournament is receiving

unprecedented interest. The 2016 event is scheduled for October 21 to 23 and nominations are

now open. Newsletter, Jan 20, 2016 UON Central Coast Sevens

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - February 16, 2016 - P311 W

Surf club lease procedures simplified urf Life Saving Clubs at The Entrance North, The Entrance, Soldiers Beach and Shelly Beach will no longer need to go through lengthy processes to renew their Crown Land leases and will have 20-year minimum leases, due to a new NSW Government package.

Parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald said he welcomed the agreement between the NSW Government and Surf Life Saving NSW to cut red tape for the surf clubs so they can focus on keeping beaches safe. The new club lease package removes the

need for clubs and councils to negotiate new lease arrangements and provides a 20 year minimum lease. “This is a massive win for surf clubs on the Central Coast,” Mr MacDonald said. “The agreement covers all surf life saving clubs on Crown land on the Central Coast.

Sport

Wyong lifeguards win Cook Cup

“It ensures consistency and fairness for club leases on the Central Coast and recognises legitimate fund raising activities by clubs to support themselves,” he said. Media release, Jan 25, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald

Grants made to sports stars alented locals will receive $4,000 from Wyong Council’s Sport and Cultural Sponsorship Program.

Representing Australia, Ms Jade-Anne Koremer from Wyongah is off to the Brazil Centre of Excellence Futsal Tour while Mr Ross Hamption from Shelly Beach is heading to New Zealand for the Australian TransTasman Oz Tag Tour. The Rebels Netball Club from Budgewoi will

have the trip of a lifetime to represent the Central Coast in the Disney International Youth Netball tournament in the USA. Ms Bree Akhurst and Ms Jemma Caldwell will be getting wet representing the Central Coast at national and state level respectively in

water polo. The Sponsorship Program assists Wyong residents to participate in sporting and cultural events of regional, state and/or national significance. Media release, Feb 10, 2016 Wyong Council media

Ourimbah runners-up in sevens gala day wonderful day of Sevens Rugby was held at Slade Park, Budgewoi on Sunday, February 14.

The weather was very kind, although a little warm, but the rugby was great. All Central Coast clubs were involved on the day, as well as teams from Sydney and Newcastle. The matches started very early in the morning, and went all day until the

final late in the day. The final was won by Southern Beaches from Newcastle, who defeated local team Ourimbah by 29 points to 24. Southern Beaches scored a try in the final few seconds of the match to cement the victory. It was a great day, both

on and off the paddock, and many thanks must go to the Lakes Rugby Club (formerly Northlakes) for all the work put into the event. Media release, Feb 15, 2016 Larry Thomson, Central Coast Rugby Union

Lifeguards from Wyong and Gosford competing at Shelly Beach

yong Council’s lifeguards have been victorious in this year’s annual challenge against Gosford City Council at Shelly Beach.

Now in its 35th year, competitors took part in four races, three team relays and one individual, to battle it out on the sand and in the surf to take home the prestigious Cook Cup. Council’s lifeguard coordinator, Mr Trevor Roberts, said he was proud of his team who won the challenge. “It was a great team effort from our Wyong

boys, but I have to admit both teams performed extremely well on the night,” Mr Roberts said. “It was neck and neck in the races until the final team Lifeguard Mission Relay – run, swim, board – where our three teams came home in first, second and third place taking Wyong to the top of the leader board. “This could be the last time the challenge is run

WAR MEMORABILIA WANTED

in this format as the two Councils go through the merger, so I’m stoked the Cook Cup will stay in Wyong,” he said. The Cook Cup is named in honour of Allan Cook, former Lifeguard Coordinator at Wyong Council and Surf Ironman Champion. Media release, Feb 4, 2016 Wyong Council media

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