Issue 112 of Wyong Regional Chronicle by Central Coast Newspapers

Issue 112 March 14, 2017

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Wallarah 2 gets draft consent but conditions could make it unviable T

he Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has issued draft development consent for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

The 78 conditions of consent echo the Department’s concern for the security of the Central Coast’s water supply. It has conceded that subsidence, caused by the Wallarah 2 coal project, would be massive, and would have an adverse impact on the water catchment, causing loss of drinking water. Under the draft conditions of consent, the Wallarah 2 coal project must provide compensatory water supply to any owner of privately owned land whose water supply is adversely and directly impacted (other than a negligible impact) as a result of the development. The compensatory water supply measures must provide an alternative long-term supply of water that is equivalent, in quality and volume, to the loss attributed to the development. Equivalent water supply must be provided, at least on an interim basis, within 24 hours of the loss being identified. Prior to the approval of any Extraction Plan that authorises extraction of Longwall 6N, the applicant must, in consultation with Central Coast Council and DPI Water, develop

a Central Coast Water Supply Compensatory Arrangement to compensate for the measured losses of water to the Central Coast Water Supply caused by underground coalmining on the site until the cessation of mining. Australian Coal Alliance Campaign Director, Mr Alan Hayes, said the compensatory water supply provisions would be impossible to achieve, except at enormous cost by the applicant, which makes the project unviable. “It would cost millions upon millions of dollars to try and achieve such a scenario with still no real guarantee of an adequate water supply,” Mr Hayes said. “We don’t have the luxury of a second water catchment on the Central Coast.

“The project was never viable and certainly this puts the nail in their coffin. “You cannot put the water supply of 330,000 people at risk, just so the South Korean Government can have a supply of coal for power generation,” he said. The draft conditions of consent also put the burden of all subsidence damage with the mining company. The M1 Motorway, Mardi to Mangrove Creek Dam Pipeline, Main Northern Railway and the electricity transmission lines and towers must remain safe and serviceable. Any loss of serviceability must be fully compensated, based on the conditions that accompanied the Department’s draft consent. No longer is the Mine Subsidence Board

responsible for damage to subsidence affected homes. Wallarah 2 would be fully responsible for costs, including any compensation, to privately-owned residences, including built features, improvements, including farm dams, swimming pools, tennis courts, roads, tracks and fences. “Just like the compensatory water agreement, the cost will be astronomical and certainly makes any consideration to move forward unrealistic,” said Alan Hayes. ‘It’s doubtful that the PAC, when it goes to review, will change their position. “In 2014, they would not approve the mine because of uncertainty in being able to guarantee the security of the water

supply. “Wallarah 2’s own EIS confirms there will be a negative impact. “It’s time that the State Government put its own citizens first and put a stop to this whole affair, and put in place the legislation they promised to protect the water catchment.” The state’s independent Planning Assessment Commission will now review the Department’s assessment report which finds that the proposed underground mine near Wyong could be approved but with the extensive 78 conditions recommended. Those conditions include some addressing the Central Coast’s water resources. A public hearing has been scheduled to be held at the Wyong Golf Club, 319 Pacific Hwy, Wyong, on Wednesday, April 5, from 9:00am. Dr Oliver Holm, Planning’s Executive Director of Resource Assessments and Compliance, said the Department has carefully considered the revised proposal along with the Commission’s first review of the original proposal in 2014, especially

recommendations regarding water and subsidence. “We support the Commission’s recommendations and have now strengthened the conditions in our current assessment,” Dr Holm said. “This is in direct response to the Commission’s review and the community’s feedback during the public exhibition period. “New conditions recommended to the Commission by the Department include intensive and comprehensive monitoring of water resources, as well as independent audits of subsidence, surface water and groundwater. “The company should also be required to closely monitor subsidence and be prepared with Trigger Action Response Plans for the proposed mine’s longwalls. “There are also a suite of conditions to manage air quality, noise, impacts to landscape views, biodiversity and Aboriginal heritage. Continued page 4

STOP PRESS Gosford books are history: new Council is ‘safe, stable and sustainable’ - PAGE 3

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March 14, 2017

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he Australian Reptile Park will be showcasing the thrilling and heart-stopping Deadly and Dangerous show series throughout the April school holidays.

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Central Coast Council has renewed its commitment to work with Transport NSW and the Roads and Maritime Services to achieve a “positive outcome” with the Rawson Rd rail level crossing. The level crossing was the site of a fatality on January 17 which highlighted the decision made by both Central Coast Council and Transport for NSW to shelve plans to replace the level crossing. The Central Coast Council released a statement renewing its commitment to ﬁnding a solution for the community. “The State Government originally committed $52 million in funding for the removal of the rail level crossing at Rawson Rd and to provide a new road underpass at the base of Bulls Hill,” the statement said. The plan was to connect Woy Woy Rd to Nagari Rd. The trafﬁc underpass was proposed in addition to the construction of a pedestrian underpass from Railway St to Waterview Cres. “The original design for the underpass was rejected by Transport for NSW, due to the impact the works would have on the northern rail line,” the statement said. “Intermittent closures were required for critical construction works scheduled over several weekends,” the statement said. “The pedestrian underpass was completed by Council as part of this project in 2015 and taken over by the Transport NSW to be managed by the RMS. “An alternate design, for the underpass was developed by Transport NSW and costed $115 million.” The Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, said the recent fatality on the level crossing would not affect what, if any, next steps would be taken by the NSW Government or Central Coast Council. A major stumbling block continued to be that both Railway St and Rawson Rd were not state but local roads. “In terms of any State roads, I

am happy to put my hand on my heart and say we will have more state road funding go into this area,” Mr MacDonald said. “But that was a local government road and the Council came to us for help and the costing went up to $115 million and that wasn’t satisfactory from any point of view,” he said. Mr MacDonald said in order to argue for any sort of upgrade to the intersection or solution for the level crossing within the NSW Cabinet, he needed to see leadership from Central Coast Council. “For me, it is very much about I need a helping hand from Council to say this is what we want to do and this is the final contribution we need from State Government and not something that is going to blow out. “I have not got a confidence about that figure of $115 million. “I don’t know whether the scope of works was final and I don’t know whether RMS has got any confidence about that figure.” It is unlikely for local roads to be reclassified as State roads, he said. He said the best strategy available to the Central Coast Council would be to strike up a memorandum of understanding with the State Government for funding based on the road being a significant transport and rail corridor. Mr MacDonald said it was Council’s responsibility to ensure adequate infrastructure was in place as the Peninsula’s population grew through the redevelopment of areas from low- to medium-density residential. “I would hope Council would be very mindful that they have adequate road capacity or that they have spoken to the State Government for support. “If they are local government roads then they have to have the developer contributions to build up that infrastructure. “If they haven’t got those developer contributions, it is a failure of planning. Media statement, 24 Jan 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Interview, 2 Feb 2017 Scot MacDonald, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Reporter: Jackie Pearson

FEBRUARY 9, 2017

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ISSUE 151

A report on the future of the Regional Library to be presented to February Council meeting Lawyers write to keep local court

Peninsula lawyers have written collectively and individually seeking the retention of the Woy Woy Local Court.

They wrote a joint submission to Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, following their meeting with him on January 19. Representatives from Coastlaw, David Kelly lawyers, Ryan and Seton, Tonkin Drysdale Partners and Central Coast Community Legal Centre, had earlier written individual letters in response to the proposal. Mr David Kelly from David Kelly Lawyers said: “The closure of Woy Woy Local Court will prejudice our clients who reside on the Peninsula. “The majority of our clients are based at the lower end of the socio economic spectrum. “The closing of Woy Woy Local Court will impact on their ability to access a proximate court and place further burdens upon them both ﬁnancially having to either travel to Gosford or Wyong Local Court. “The Woy Woy Local Court is a valuable and practical asset. “It should not be closed,” Mr Kelly said. Mr Michael Seton of Ryan and Seton Lawyers wrote to the Central Coast Law Society to state that his ﬁrm “wholly and unreservedly”

opposed the proposal. Mr Seton said he wished to clarify that his firm would financially benefit from the proposed changes but remained opposed to them. “The Peninsula community will lose its sole avenue for efficient, affordable and accessible justice,” Mr Seton said. “This will be the case for civil and criminal litigants, including victims, alike. “It is the vulnerable people in the community that will suffer first and suffer greatest with this proposal,” he said. Mr Paul Mereniuk from Peninsula Law wrote directly to the Chief Magistrate: “We would say that the proposal of cessation of the Adult List Day at Woy Woy Local Court will result in a 25 per cent increase in the work load at Gosford Local Court.” Mr Mereniuk said he disputed claims that the changes would result in 12 extra adult sitting days in Gosford, arguing instead that the total would be eight. “The Gosford Court House facility struggles to accommodate the stakeholders it currently services for both the District and Local Courts,” he said. “The proposed increase work load has not been met by any increase in rooms available for conferencing clients or for accommodating victims of domestic violence.

She said a development on the Broadwater site would be “in excess of what we’ve got funding for”. An alternative site is also under consideration for the library, according to Ms Vaughan. “This is part of consolidating a lot of the former projects,” she said. Ms Vaughan said a report would be presented to the February Council meeting, but that negotiations were still being ﬁnalised, and the high political interest in the project meant she needed to be cautious about what she could say publicly at this stage. “The $7 million Federal funding means the government requires us to deliver on this project, and there have been many promises for many years, but not much has been delivered.” Ms Vaughan said the $8.1 million raised via a rate payer levy was “still committed”. She said the draft designs put forward by Gosford Council were “pretty pictures, but not necessarily what was ever going to be an affordable design. “The report will identify the next steps, but we are still concurrently trying to keep the commitment of the Federal Government. “We don’t want to make any more broken promises and this review is part of the due diligence required,” she said.

Woy Woy Court House in Blackwall Rd

“This will also result in security issues and the need for conferencing of clients in public as opposed to private spaces. “This is totally inappropriate,” he said. The partners of Tonkin Drysdale also wrote to the Chief Magistrate and described his proposals as “unfathomable”, pointing to the Peninsula’s long history of a Local Court service to a growing population. “The cessation of the criminal, family and civil jurisdictions of the Local Court will be a great loss and shock to the community. “It will lead to signiﬁcant negative outcomes for the administration of, and access to, justice on the Peninsula. “The only argument that could realistically be claimed by our political masters to improve services to a community by actually taking away the service is a perception of cost-saving, perhaps more correctly described as cost-shifting. “It is a fallacy.” Letter, 13 Jan 2017 Darrell Pannowitz, Paul Tonkin, Paul Quinn, Lee Pawlak, Tonkin Drysdale Partners Letter, 13 Jan 2017 Paul Mereniuk, Peninsula Law Letter, 19 Jan 2017 Michael Seton, Ryan and Seton Lawyers Letter, 19 Jan 2017 David Kelly, David Kelly Lawyers

THIS ISSUE contains 46 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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he long-promised regional library for Gosford has been delayed again, putting at risk a $7 million Community Development Grant, and begging questions about the status of around $8.1 million raised over 15 years from a ratepayer levy. Prior to its dismissal by the NSW Government in May 2016, Gosford Council had resolved to build a regional library on the council owned Broadwater Hotel site, next door to Gosford Council Chambers on Mann St. Draft plans were drawn and a public tender was advertised (but not in this newspaper) for an architectural consultancy and detailed design services. In a confidential Central Coast Council meeting on January 24, Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, resolved to withdraw that public tender. The reasons for the withdrawal have remained confidential, but are understood to be “procedural”. “Council will now seek an extension for the $7 million grant under the Community Development Grants Program,” Central Coast Council confirmed in a written statement issued in response to questions from Coast Community News. “[This will] enable Council to settle on a suitable location for the Gosford Library site with a report to be brought back to Council on the matter,” the statement said. Gosford Councillors voted in 2015 to move ahead with plans to build a new library in Mann St after the State Library of NSW reviewed nine possible options. The draft design was described in February 2016 as a collaborative effort between Gosford Council and leading

The last concept plan for the regional library has been described as “pretty pictures” but not necessarily affordable

architects Clare Design and Hill Thalis, which Gosford’s former mayor, Mr Lawrie McKinna, said was a “concept plan that boasts something for everyone. “There are still plenty of details to work through, but this current concept truly captures our vision of having a state of the art community hub right in the heart of the Central Coast’s capital,” Mr

McKinna said at the time. The concept plan for the Broadwater site included a ground level café and children’s area, three levels dedicated to exhibitions, library collections and an auditorium, as well as four more levels devoted to a smart work hub, a seniors’ centre and a university presence.

It appears Council amalgamation also resulted in the development application to demolish the current Council-owned building on the site never being lodged. Council’s Group Leader Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the purpose of the report that was considered by Mr Reynolds in January was to “tidy up the tender process” which,

she said “fell way outside local government requirements” in terms of timing. Ms Vaughan said the work done by the NSW State Library was still being considered but questions remained about the suitability of the Broadwater Hotel as the best site for the state-of-the-art library that the region required.

Media statement, Jan 30, 2017 Central Coast Council media Interview, Feb 8, 2017 Julie Vaughan, Central Coast Council Media Release, Feb 22, 2016 Gosford Council media Jackie Pearson, journalist

Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net Mobile Website: www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

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Confidential airport feasibility study Berejiklian refuses to recommended sale confirm September council election of the land ew South Wales Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, during her visit to the region for a Community Cabinet meeting, was not prepared to confirm that the Central Coast would have a local election in September.

Mr Laurie Eyes attended the Wyong chamber to access the airport feasibility study

he former Wyong Council and the current Central Coast Council have continued to spend rate payer money on the expansion of the airport at Warnervale when a 2013 feasibility study recommended the sale of the land.

The study, which has been kept conﬁdential by both Wyong and Central Coast Councils since 2013, concluded that the sale of the airport land at Warnervale could fetch around $7.7 million, depending on market conditions. It also argued that the sale could result in an

ongoing revenue stream back to Council through land rates. The 2013 feasibility study concluded that an upgrade of the Warnervale airport was not viable, as the costs were considered “prohibitive” and signiﬁcant effort would be required by Council to attract aviation-related businesses to the site. Since abandoning its plans to develop an airport at Kiar Ridge, the Wyong Council and the Central Coast Council, have pursued an expansion of the airport into a general aviation hub. Since 2013, the former and current Council have spent at least $7

million at Warnervale airport, including on a runway upgrade without Ministerial permission, as is required by specific legislation, and on land acquisitions. At the same time, it has kept confidential the feasibility study which clearly showed the best course of action available to the Council was to sell the airport land and turn it into rateable industrial lots. Those lots would also generate employment as per the intent of its classification as a State Significant Site and the objectives of creating the Wyong Employment Zone (WEZ). Continued P3

Wyong Regional Chronicle asked Ms Berejiklian to conﬁrm that the ﬁrst election for the Central Coast Council would occur in September. The Premier said: “We know, the feedback I have been getting is, that people are so happy with the current arrangements up here on the Coast. “The merger has gone extremely well, that is the feedback I have been getting, not just from the local members, but also from the community, and people want to ensure that continues,” she said. When asked if she would rule out an extension of the current Administration period for the Central Coast Council, Ms Berejiklian said: “No, I’m not ruling anything in or out. “All that I am saying is the feedback we

Premier Gladys Berejiklian shakes hands with the Central Coast Photo: Noel Fisher

have had is that it is an extremely positive experience and we are seeing a difference on the ground. “We are seeing less time taken to approve developments. “You’ve got to remember this is about the local community, it is not about how governments work, and what I have seen is really positive.” Ms Berejiklian has been under pressure to reconsider the

Government’s position on Council mergers since taking over as NSW Premier from Mr Mike Baird. For example, the State Member for Wyong, Mr David Harris, who is also Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, has called for a plebiscite to give the Central Coast community the opportunity to decide whether or not it retains the two old councils or continues with a single Central Coast Council.

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

Continued P4

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Issue 111 February 28, 2017

Edition 414

20 February 2017

Kathy Smith resigns due to fight with cancer Member for Gosford Ms Kathy Smith has announced her resignation from NSW Parliament, because of her ongoing fight with cancer. The resignation was confirmed in a media statement from the NSW Opposition Leader Mr Luke Foley. He said that, against the odds, she won Gosford for Labor in 2015. Ms Smith was diagnosed with cancer in 2016 and doctors were confident at the time that she would overcome the disease that first struck her in 1996. Unfortunately the cancer had more recently metastasised and required further treatment. “There is no higher honour than to represent your community in Parliament and that is why it is with great sadness that I announce my decision to resign as your Member for Gosford,” Ms Smith said. “When I was diagnosed with cancer last year, my doctors were positive that with treatment I would win my second battle with this disease,” she said. “Unfortunately, the cancer has metastasised and will now require further treatment. “This was not the result any of us was hoping for. “It was my first battle with this disease that led me to become a cancer advocate, then Chair of Cancer Voices NSW and ultimately be given the privilege of representing my community in the NSW Parliament.

Ms Kathy Smith (front left) campaigning to keep the Woy Woy Motor Registry open in 2015

“I am proud of what we have achieved together on the Central Coast and I know that whoever comes next will continue the great work that I and the Foley Labor team have started. “I now look forward to spending more time with my family and continuing my treatment and recovery,” she said. Ms Smith thanked her staff, Ms Jane Letteri and Ms Amy Walsh, and her husband Peter whose dedication and support had made so much possible at this difﬁcult time. NSW Opposition leader Mr Luke Foley said: “I said when Kathy was diagnosed with cancer that she had all our heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery. “Now with her resignation, we

are losing a remarkable, resilient and admirable woman, mother and colleague. “Her spirit and outlook will be missed around Parliament and important though her work here was, she has a much bigger battle ahead. “She has our entire sincere good wishes for that struggle. “Please give her your best thoughts, and prayers. “She and her family will get strength from that.” Mr Foley said Ms Smith’s achievements during her time as Member for Gosford included her exposure of the dangerous condition of the Hawkesbury River Rail Bridge which led to an inquiry by the Ofﬁce of Transport Safety Investigations and forced the

Government to make repairs. She led the fight against the closure of the Roads and Maritime Services office in Woy Woy by collecting a petition with more than 15,000 signatures and forcing a debate in the NSW Parliament. Ms Smith was credited with stopping the proposed increase in train fares which would have almost doubled fares for seniors by 2018 and would have cost daily commuters from Woy Woy to Tuggerah an extra $386 per year. “She fought to keep our public hospitals in public hands because patients should always come before profit; campaigned to fix the $12 million maintenance backlog at Gosford schools; and championed Brisbane Water oyster growers in their continuing efforts to re-

FEBRUARY 23, 2017

establish a viable local industry.” NSW Labor Senator Ms Deborah O’Neill, former Federal Member for Robertson, released a statement following Ms Smith’s announcement. “I am very sad that my friend and colleague Kathy Smith has had to resign as the Member for Gosford,” she said. “Kathy has been a strong voice for our community for many years. “I first met Kathy when she was the chairperson of Cancer Voices NSW and she was fighting to secure funding to build the Regional Cancer Centre at Gosford Hospital. “Thanks to Kathy’s persistent and passionate advocacy on behalf of locals, the Cancer Centre was built by Labor and thousands of locals now receive their cancer treatment right here on the Central Coast. “Kathy has continued to be a strong champion for our community and has fought against the Liberal Government’s attack on our local services, while battling her own illness in the last 12 months. “My thoughts are with Kathy, Peter, her children, grandchildren and her close friends at this very difficult time.” Media statement, 14 Feb 2017 Maegen Sykes, Office of Luke Foley Media statement, 14 Feb 2017 Rhys Zorro, Office of Deborah O’Neill BY-ELECTION NEWS - Pages 8 to 12

Council withdraws Bullion St carpark from sale Umina’s Bullion Street community car park has been withdrawn from sale by Central Coast Council. The Central Coast Council called for expressions of interest last September from parties wishing to acquire and develop the Bullion St land.

At the time, the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce argued that the sale and development of the car park would cause trafﬁc chaos and damage the thriving Umina town centre’s economy. The community backlash has resulted in Central Coast Council pulling its call for expressions of interest off the agenda.

The Chamber of Commerce reports that it has been assured the sale will not proceed and that there will be no future review of that decision without the participation of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. Interview, 15 Feb 2017 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce

The Bullion Street carpark has been withdrawn from sale

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

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ISSUE 152

Billion Dollar

Waterfront Proposal markets,” he said. “We have the DA process and the public involvement process ready to go. “We have brought in the best architects and engineers Australia has to offer and this is about infrastructure; it is not a land grab. “We have done the 20-year plan. “As an international investment banker, I knew I had to secure the funding ﬁrst and that is what I have done. “We have asked Council to give us the green light to start working through all the issues with the community and the environment. “We will take the commercial

billion-dollar project that aims to transform Gosford into the infrastructure investment gateway to Asia is waiting for a stamp of support from the Central Coast Council and NSW Government.

Mr Steve Duncan, Chairman of the G5 Global Vision Foundation and Bensville resident, said the proposal had been presented to the NSW Premier and Cabinet and that he was hopeful of an opportunity to meet with NSW Government representatives within the next couple of weeks. The proposal, which includes plans to redevelop the Gosford waterfront, has been on the desks of senior executives at Gosford and then Central Coast Council for almost 12 months. Mr Duncan said the proposal involved waterfront retail and public space, hotel and conference facilities; mixed use residential, commercial and retail, a highspeed intercity ferry service and infrastructure; and much more. The Central Coast Council has asked the NSW Government to assist it to formulate a strategy and roadmap for the State Significant, world-class project. In briefing notes presented to NSW Government Ministers at a recent Community Cabinet meeting, the Central Coast Council asked for “an audience in confidence with the State Government to present this opportunity and formulate a strategy and roadmap for the realisation of the project with a view to it being a State Significant project. “Central Coast Council has been working commercial in confidence with a proponent on a proposal that has the potential

Gosford waterfront

to be a game changer for the Gosford Waterfront,” which the briefing notes described as the “gateway location to the Central Coast. “The proposed Gosford waterfront development will work within the framework and principles set out by the intended Gosford Masterplan undertaken by the former Gosford Council, the Gosford Challenge, and Our City, Our Destiny Gosford Masterplan,’ the briefing document said. “This State Significant project will require partnership with the NSW State Government across a number of portfolios including planning, lands and RMS. “It has the potential to change the face of the Central Coast region, bring significant employment and economic stimulus to the region and contribute to the social wellbeing of the community,” the Cabinet briefing said.

Mr Duncan, who has had a long career as a merchant banker, said the project had been years in the planning and also involved a much bigger picture for Gosford and the region. The G5 Global Vision Foundation owns a company called Cellate, which is an Australian building technology that dates back to 1964, and established landmark projects in Australia until it relocated to the United Arab Emirates in 1990. Mr Duncan said he had successfully convinced the company to relocate its headquarters to Gosford as a stepping stone to expanding into Asia, and that Cellate was also negotiating the acquisition of a number of sites to develop as housing on the Coast. “The Central Coast Council has been very meticulous in dealing with our proposal because they

want it to happen,” he said. “I would say they have been a lot more cautious than they have been in the past because they have been disappointed before. “We have got to get Australia back working again and the Central Coast has been neglected because the same people have been in the same positions for the past 20 years and nothing has happened,” he said. “Our group specialises in infrastructure capital raising and we have serious projects on the go in India, South Africa and Asia. “We have been in the Middle East and have done very well out of it, but we are pulling out because the current situation is too dangerous. “We believe the growth region in the future will be Asia, locations like the Philippines and Indonesia, and Gosford is perfectly positioned to be our gateway into those

risk; we just want to be able to lease the [waterfront] land on commercial terms.” Mr Duncan said he believed the proposal would create 3,000 long-term jobs in Gosford. “We are working with the University of Newcastle to bring a Centre of Engineering Excellence to Gosford. “The Australian Maritime College will have a presence on the Central Coast,” he said. The Gosford waterfront was described in the Council document as one of the most picturesque landscapes on the eastern shores of Australia. Continued P3

Member for Gosford, Kathy Smith, resigns from Parliament ember for the State Seat of Gosford, Ms Kathy Smith, has announced her resignation from NSW Parliament, due to her ongoing struggle with cancer.

Against all the odds, she won Gosford for Labor in 2015. Ms Smith was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, and doctors were conﬁdent at the time that she would win her second battle with the disease that ﬁrst struck her in 1996.

Unfortunately, the cancer has now metastasized and requires further treatment. “There is no higher honour than to represent your community in Parliament, and that is why it is with great sadness that I announce my decision to resign as your Member for Gosford,” Ms Smith said. “When I was diagnosed with cancer last year, my doctors were positive that, with treatment, I would win my second battle with this disease,” she said. Continued P4

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Environmental Justice Australia calls on EPA to act on serious air pollution at Vales Point o m m u n i t y groups have initiated an EPA investigation into air pollution from the Vales Point power station at Mannering Point.

It has been alleged that coal trucks dumping thousands of tonnes of coal outdoors at the power station have created clouds of dangerous coal dust, just hundreds of metres from residential Mannering Point. “We reported the pollution event immediately and looked forward to a prompt investigation by the NSW EPA to stop and remedy this serious air pollution problem,” said Dr James Whelan, researcher with Environmental Justice Australia. According to Dr Whelan, particle pollution from coal dust causes serious health impacts including respiratory and cardiovascular illness, asthma and hospital admissions. Under their pollution licence, the Vales Point power station operators must carry out all their operations and activities in a manner that will minimise the emission of dust.

Tip trucks (right) depositing coal on one of the outdoor mounds at Vales Point power station dumped by very large, pollution,” the power station. When community minimise members investigated, said local resident Mr The Vales Point power and often uncovered, coal trucks were Mike Campbell, who station was sold by the dump trucks at Vales uncovered and no water witnessed the pollution. NSW Government in Point. was sprayed to control “There are mountains “It’s shocking to 2015 to two investors in dust. of coal as high as threesee Delta Electricity a $1 million deal. thousands The Vales Point dumping It is expected to close storey buildings within a very short distance power station reported of tonnes of coal by 2022. emitting 34 million outdoors in hot windy Dr Whelan said the to the residential areas exposing EPA had responded of Mannering Point and kilograms of 30 conditions, substances in the 2014- our community to toxic to the Environmental Blue Haven,” Dr Whelan 15 National Pollutant pollution,” Mr Campbell Justice Australia said. Inventory, including said. “We were stunned by pollution report by 66,000kg of coarse The pollution was stating Vales Point was what we saw at Vales particle pollution. reported to the Chief using water trucks to Point. Elsewhere in NSW, Regulator of NSW, control the dust but, “It looks like they coal is transported into Mr Mark Gifford, and he said, on two out of have the same sort of power station furnaces Regional EPA Director, the three occasions he conveyor system as by conveyor belts that Mr Adam Gilligan, on visited the site, no water other power stations, the evening of Thursday, was being sprayed to but it is not being used. are entirely enclosed. contain the dust. “We expect a February 16. “The EPA said the The closest EPA air major polluter like “Tens of thousands of conveyors will be in use Delta Electricity to pollution monitoring is tonnes of coal are being by April, but that is still do all they can to more than 25km from

two months away, so we believe operations should be closed down until that conveyor is operational,” he said. Dr Whelan said it was his contention that Delta was not investing in the power station because it was due to be closed in 2022. “It is being run like you would run a second hand car: get another year out of it without spending any money or take it to the wreckers. “That is not what best practice looks like; it is not being a good neighbour,” he said. Delta Electricity has been asked to respond to Environmental Justice Australia’s claims about Vales Point. Dr Whelan said the latest report to the EPA was part of a 39-year history of campaigning by local politicians and community groups to get air pollution monitoring in place for communities living close to power stations like Vales Point. Media release, Feb 17, 2017 James Whelan, Environmental Justice Australia Interview, Feb 27, 2017 Mike Campbell, Community Environment Network Interview, Feb 27, 2017 James Whelan, Environmental Justice

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

Issue 112 March 14, 2017

Edition 413

6 February 2017

Council renews commitment to crossing outcome

e Frkeeone!

Issue 110 February 14, 2017

Edition 412

6 March 2017

Fast ferry service proposal presented to Premier A fast ferry service with an interchange at Ettalong is being proposed as part of a billion dollar business plan that Central Coast Council has presented to the Premier and Cabinet of the NSW Government. The proposal, presented to NSW Government Ministers at a recent Community Cabinet meeting, included the “construction of Ettalong Wharf and Pier including a transport interchange and parking facilities. “Council is seeking an audience in confidence with the State Government to present the opportunity and formulate a strategy and roadmap for the realisation of the project with a view to it being a State Significant Project,” briefing notes presented to the Ministers said. “This State Significant Project will require partnership with the NSW State Government across a number of portfolios including planning, lands and Roads and Maritime Services. “It has the potential to change the face of the Central Coast region, bring significant

An example of a high speed ferry that travels between Japan and South Korea

employment and economic stimulus to the region and contribute to the social wellbeing of the community,” the notes said. Mr Steve Duncan, Chairman of the G5 Global Vision Foundation, and one of the proponents of the project, said it had involved years of planning. Mr Duncan had also played

a part in previous proposals to develop a fast ferry service between Central Coast and Sydney. “The Central Coast Council has been very meticulous in dealing with our proposal because they want it to happen,” Mr Duncan said. “Our group specialises in

infrastructure capital raising and we have serious projects on the go in India, South Africa and Asia,” he said. “We have the DA process and the public involvement process ready to go. “He have brought in the best architects and engineers Australia has to offer and this is

about infrastructure. “As an international investment banker, I knew I had to secure the funding first and that is what I have done. “We have asked Council to give us the green light to start working through all the issues with the community and the environment,” he said. Another element of the proposal would be a privatelyowned dredge to keep the Brisbane Water channel at Half Tide Rocks navigable for the fast ferries at all time. “The actual channel into Brisbane Water has been filled up from reckless dredging and beach replenishment so Brisbane Water is under-utilised because the boating fraternity won’t bring their vessels in,” he said. The boats to be used are similar to those that are currently in use as ferry services between South Korea and Japan. Cabinet briefing notes, 9 Feb 2017 Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Interview, 21 Feb 2017 Steve Duncan, G5 Global Vision Foundation Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Centenarians celebrate birthdays Two Peninsula Villages residents are celebrating milestone birthdays this month. Ms Biddy Abrahams and Ms Eileen Banks marked their 100th and 103rd birthdays respectively with a special morning tea held in their honour. The centenarians were each also given birthday cakes and a bunch of flowers containing one flower for each year of their lives. “We love to celebrate our residents, especially when they reach such important milestones as the 100 club,” said Peninsula Village chief executive officer Mr Shane Neaves. “We now have three lovely ladies who are aged over 100

years living at Peninsula Villages. “Both Biddy and Eileen are much admired around the Village so we were grateful for an opportunity to spoil them,” Mr Neaves added. The newest centenarian at the Village, Ms Abrahams has lived a fascinating life. Born in 1917 in the throes of the First World War, she was brought up by her grandmother and later trained to be a nursery help for a nanny. Ms Abrahams joined the Women’s Land Army in 1941 where one of her jobs was to deliver the mail to different farms. Because she didn’t know how to ride a bike, she was given a horse to make her rounds. The Women’s Land Army is

one of Ms Abraham’s fondest memories, as it was an opportunity for her to be back in the bush, acting resourcefully and feeling valued. Ms Abrahams moved to Umina in the early 1980s with her late husband Eric and said she loved the Central Coast lifestyle. She’s been living in her own home at Peninsula Villages for two years where she can enjoy hobbies such as knitting, crochet and embroidery. “Both Biddy and Eileen have a wonderful sense of humour and enjoy their independence, perhaps pointing to some secrets of ageing well,” Mr Neaves said. Media release, 27 Feb 2017 Katey Small, Brilliant Logic PR Ms Biddy Abrahams joined the 100 club in style at Peninsula Villages

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

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Wallarah 2 gets draft consent but conditions could make it unviable T

he Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has issued draft development consent for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project. The 78 conditions of consent echo the Department’s concern for the security of the Central Coast’s water supply. It has conceded that subsidence, caused by the Wallarah 2 coal project, would be massive, and would have an adverse impact on the water catchment, causing loss of drinking water. Under the draft conditions of consent, the Wallarah 2 coal project must provide compensatory water supply to any owner of privately owned land whose water supply is adversely and directly impacted (other than a negligible impact) as a result of the development. The compensatory water supply measures must provide an alternative long-term supply of water that is equivalent, in quality and volume, to the loss attributed to the development. Equivalent water supply must be provided, at least on an interim basis, within 24 hours of the loss being identiﬁed. Prior to the approval of any Extraction Plan that authorises

extraction of Longwall 6N, the applicant must, in consultation with Central Coast Council and DPI Water, develop a Central Coast Water Supply Compensatory Arrangement to compensate for the measured losses of water to the Central Coast Water Supply caused by underground coalmining on the site until the cessation of mining. Australian Coal Alliance Campaign Director, Mr Alan Hayes, said the compensatory water supply provisions would be impossible to achieve, except at enormous cost by the applicant, which makes the project unviable. “It would cost millions upon millions of dollars to try and achieve such a scenario with still no real guarantee of an adequate water supply,” Mr Hayes said. “We don’t have the luxury of a second water

catchment on the Central Coast. “The project was never viable and certainly this puts the nail in their cofﬁn. “You cannot put the water supply of 330,000 people at risk, just so the South Korean Government can have a supply of coal for power generation,” he said. The draft conditions of consent also put the burden of all subsidence damage with the mining company. The M1 Motorway, Mardi to Mangrove Creek Dam Pipeline, Main Northern Railway and the electricity transmission lines and towers must remain safe and serviceable. Any loss of serviceability must be fully compensated, based on the conditions that accompanied the Department’s draft consent.

No longer is the Mine Subsidence Board responsible for damage to subsidence affected homes. Wallarah 2 would be fully responsible for costs, including any compensation, to privately-owned residences, including built features, improvements, including farm dams, swimming pools, tennis courts, roads, tracks and fences. “Just like the compensatory water agreement, the cost will be astronomical and certainly makes any consideration to move forward unrealistic,” said Alan Hayes. ‘It’s doubtful that the PAC, when it goes to review, will change their position. “In 2014, they would not approve the mine because of uncertainty in being able to guarantee the security of the water

supply. “Wallarah 2’s own EIS confirms there will be a negative impact. “It’s time that the State Government put its own citizens first and put a stop to this whole affair, and put in place the legislation they promised to protect the water catchment.” The state’s independent Planning Assessment Commission will now review the Department’s assessment report which finds that the proposed underground mine near Wyong could be approved but with the extensive 78 conditions recommended. Those conditions include some addressing the Central Coast’s water resources. A public hearing has been scheduled to be held at the Wyong Golf Club, 319 Pacific Hwy, Wyong, on Wednesday, April 5, from 9:00am.

Dr Oliver Holm, Planning’s Executive Director of Resource Assessments and Compliance, said the Department has carefully considered the revised proposal along with the Commission’s ﬁrst review of the original proposal in 2014, especially recommendations regarding water and subsidence. “We support the Commission’s recommendations and have now strengthened the conditions in our current assessment,” Dr Holm said. “This is in direct response to the Commission’s review and the community’s feedback during the public exhibition period. “New conditions recommended to the Commission by the Department include intensive and comprehensive monitoring of water resources, as well as independent audits of subsidence, surface water and groundwater. “The company should also be required to closely monitor subsidence and be prepared with Trigger Action Response Plans for the proposed mine’s longwalls. “There are also a suite of conditions to manage air quality, noise, impacts to landscape views, biodiversity and Aboriginal heritage. Continued page 4

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

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

www.wyongnews.org

Page 3 March 14, 2017

NEWS

Gosford books are history: new Council is ‘safe, stable and sustainable’ C

EO of the Central Coast Council, Mr Rob Noble, has reassured Central Coast ratepayers that the new Council is “safe, financially stable and sustainable” following a forum at which Gosford residents expressed their disbelief and anger at the state of the former Gosford Council’s finances.

The residents’ forum was held at the Gosford Chamber of Central Coast Council on Monday, March 13, prior to an extraordinary general meeting to consider a resolution to refer the 2015-16 accounts of the former

Gosford Council to Price Waterhouse Coopers and the NSW Auditor General for a further independent audit. The state of Gosford Council’s finances made the front page of the Sydney Morning Herald on Monday, March 13, as, although the Council recorded a surplus of $33.3 million for the year up to its dissolution on May 12, 2016, significant corrections had to be made due to errors discovered in previous years’ reports. Those errors resulted in a $1.39 billion write down of the value of the former Council’s fixed assets, including a $720 million write down for roads and drainage fixed assets. Water and sewer assets

had to be written down by $595 million to correct prior year errors. Significant weaknesses in fundamental information technology and other internal controls were also identified during the preparation of the draft financial reports. According to the report considered by Mr Reynolds: “Most notably those identified weaknesses included inoperative security controls that enabled a limited number of officers and software vendors to script changes, deletions or additions into the financial tables contained within the financial system of the former Gosford Council, without any effective control reporting or audit trail.

“In the absence of any reporting on changes made to the data, it is not possible to confirm of validate that no unauthorised changes were made. “These serious control weaknesses affect the ability for the Central Coast Council to attest to the completeness and accuracy of some balances contained within the financial reports of the former Gosford Council for the 2015-16 reporting period”. The Central Coast Council has referred these issues to external agencies for further investigation but would not confirm which agencies had been consulted.

However, in addressing the extraordinary meeting, Mr Noble said it was important for the new Council and the community to understand the financial reports referred to a “council that no longer exists. “We need to move forward based on that background, some of which is unfortunate but we sit here today with a fully functioning authority,” Mr Noble said. “I am very pleased to say in spite of all that has been reported, our organisation is safe, financially stable and sustainable. “We have managed to verify the value of assets as of the beginning of this accounting period and we are very clear we have

used all the appropriate methodologies to get that valuation right,” Mr Noble said. Central Coast Council’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr Stephen Naven said: “Central Coast Council is in a very strong financial position and our plan is fully funded. “Even after the adjustments detailed in the financial reports, Central Coast Council has fixed assets of over $9.5 billion.” He said Central Coast Council was on track to record a surplus of $10 million for the 22016-17 financial year. Agenda, Meeting notes, Mar 13, 2017 Central Coast Council Extraordinary Meeting Jackie Pearson, journalist

Wyong Farmers Market 1st & 3rd Saturday - 7.30am till 1.00pm DATES 2017- Feb 4th & 18th - March 4th & 18th April 1st & 15th - May 6th & 20th - June 3rd & 17th July 1st & 15th - August 5th & 19th September 2nd & 16th - October 7th & 21st November 4th & 18th - December 2nd & 16th

Farm Direct Produce:

VENUE: Wyong Racecourse Howarth Street, WYONG WHEN: 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month TIME: 7.00am till 1.00pm Rain, Hail or Shine

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WYONG Farmers’ Market will feature a wide range of fresh vegetables, fruits, primary produce including gourmet jams and preserves, olive oil products, pestos, macadamia nuts and fresh home made products.

The market will operate on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of the month from 7.00am till 1.00pm - Rain, Hail or Shine.

Wyong Farmers’ Market WYONG Racecourse, Howarth Street, WYONG

NEWS

Page 4 March 14, 2017

Wallarah 2 gets draft consent but conditions could make it unviable he Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has issued draft development consent for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

From page 1 “While the updated proposal changed the way the company plans

to transport coal from the mine site, the main elements of the original 2012 application remain the same. “The Department continues to support the project’s potential to create 300 operational jobs, 450 construction jobs, to stimulate the regional Central Coast economy, and to provide $5 million worth of contributions

to Central Coast Council for projects benefitting the local community and environment,” he said. More than 680 submissions were received by the Department during the public exhibition period in 2016. Mr David Harris, NSW Member for Wyong, said: “I think the Commission needs to say no again.

“We have now had three lots of draft determinations and it hasn’t got through, and the sticking point is that two of the conditions say there cannot be any harm to the water table, and the applicant’s own report says it will harm the water table.” Mr Harris said he moved a motion in the NSW Legislative Assembly on March 9 calling on the

State Government to “just say no to Wallarah 2 and not keep putting conditions on it”. He said he would be seeking to make a verbal submission at the Commission’s public hearing. Written submissions can be made to the Commission until 5:00pm on Wednesday, April 12.

Media release, Mar 3, 2017 Oliver Holm, NSW Department of Planning and Environment Media release, Mar 5, 2017 Alan Hayes, Australian Coal Alliance Interview, Mar 9, 2017 David Harris, member for Wyong Letter, Mar 9, 2017 Jorge Ven Den Brande, NSW Planning Assessment Commission Jackie Pearson, journalist

Community Environment Network The Value of Trees The Community Environment Network is pleased to support local groups that are calling for changes to Council’s Policy about trees. Many residents are concerned about the increasing loss of mature trees across our city and the lack of a substantial policy from Council to address this issue. Benefits of trees for our city and suburbs: • Trees beautify our streetscape, add value to property, provide shade, UV protection, absorb CO2 from car exhaust & replace it with oxygen, provide food and shelter for insects, mammals & birds and contribute to local biodiversity. There are many social, economic and ecological benefits. • Tree foliage softens hard fence lines and roofs, absorbs dust, reduces glare and provides privacy for residents. • Trees help absorb excess run off, protects waterways and helps prevent soil erosion. When mulched, trees act like a sponge that filters this water naturally and uses it to recharge groundwater. • Economic Value - a tree lined street is estimated to increase the value of houses by up to 30%. A street tree or tree in the front yard can add 5.4% to total value of a home. • Trees cool - shaded treed areas have been shown to reduce the surrounding temperature by 8 to 10 degrees.

Support the GUST group send a letter to Council The GUST group (Grow Urban Shade Trees) is asking you to support their call for Council to develop a substantial tree replenishment policy. We want Council to: 1. Adopt a "no net loss" policy in regard to trees 2. Establish a replenishment policy to address past losses. 3. See trees as a big picture issue providing a sense of place 4. Appoint an Asset Manager for trees. 5. Retain wildlife corridors – retain and expand COSS 6. Establish a street tree planting policy 7. Establish a development policy that ensures all developments include site landscaping that is meaningful, compatible and adequately redresses any loss 8. Limit the use of hard surfaces on properties 9. Encourage the protection and maintenance of vegetation on private land 10. Establish an ongoing education programme for residents 11. Investigate other local government areas

INVITATION

Mangrove Creek Catchment Crawl

Saturday 18th March, 2017 8:30am-3pm Join Central Coast Waterwatch for a fun and hands on tour of the Mangrove Creek Catchment. Participants will travel by bus and explore the creek for native flora and fauna, conduct water testing and learn about hanging swamps. Morning tea, lunch, bus travel and report of information collected on the day will be provided. Cost $10 Adult $5 Child Numbers are limited and bookings are essential - www.cen.org.au/ events or phone 4349 4756

More information - www.cen.org.au

• Trees help in combating climate change - trees absorb carbon dioxide, removing and storing the carbon while releasing the oxygen back into the air. Shade from trees can reduce the air conditioning costs of detached houses by 20% to 30%. A well treed city with a substantial canopy creates an aesthetic value to both the present and future generations. On 12 December, 2016 a submission was sent to Council asking for the development of a substantial tree replenishment policy across the Central Coast to increase our urban canopy. Council responded that they noted the comments and referred the matter to the Group Leader Environment and Planning “for consideration”. Almost 3 months later, there has been no further response.

The Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre is now open on Mondays! March Morning Special ! 1 Adult + 1 toddler (under 5 years) only $5 entry between 10-12:30 Lots of Kids activities and a nice place to catch up with friends.

www.ccmdc.org.au

Jane Smith, CEO

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

Page 5 March 14, 2017

NEWS

Council to build its own aviation hangar at Central Coast Airport C

entral Coast Council has lodged a $2.5 million development application to build an aviation hangar at its Warnervale airport.

According to the Statement of Environmental Effect submitted with the DA, the proposed aviation hangar would “specialise in full maintenance repair overhaul of amphibious planes, repair and body repair”. This specialisation implies the hangar could be used for similar activities to those proposed by AAI, which has also submitted a DA to build a much smaller hangar within the bounds of the airport at Warnervale. The Council’s proposed development is to be

located on 1.63 hectares of Council-owned land, at Lot 3 Jack Grant Ave, within the existing airport. According to the former Wyong Council’s DA tracker, no advertising of the application was required. According to the Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) submitted with the DA: “Council studies in 2015 into population growth projections, passenger demand forecasts and economic impact, have shown that a regional airport is essential infrastructure for the Central Coast’s growth. “After investigating a number of sites, Council decided on October 28, 2016, to progress with plans to establish a small regional airport, to be developed in stages, at Warnervale, now referred to as Central Coast

Airport. “The proposed hangar development is intended to provide a functional and economical design for general aviation businesses to conduct their activities.” The SEE described the scale and bulk of the building as “significant” with a maximum height of 16.1 metres, 4.1 metres over the maximum building height allowed on Council’s height building map. The proposed development would consist of a hangar with a floor area of 5.048 square metres, car parking for 59 vehicles, a oneway circular driveway of between 6.2 metres and 10.8 metres wide to allow for large, rigid truck movements, two amenities blocks, a 20,000 litre rainwater tank for amenities, firefighting infrastructure and

ENJOY COASTAL LIVING IN

associated landscaping and storm water detention. According to the SEE, the proposed hangar would be as flexible as possible, to allow various leasing options to be realised in the future, including subdivision to accommodate two independent operators. The SEE also states that “the subject site is fully serviced in terms of all infrastructure required to support the proposed aviation hangar with connections to those utilities to be created as part of the proposed development”. In conclusion, the SEE recommends that Council support the proposed change of use as a development consistent with the Central Coast Airport Development Guidelines. “The proposal is

generally consistent with the objectives of the zone and relevant development standards under Wyong LEP 2013. “Whilst the hangar exceeds the maximum building height limit… justification has been provided…to demonstrate that the proposed development is appropriate for the site, particularly in light of the development’s compliance with the Development Guidelines prepared for the airport”. An appendix to the SEE, which examines whether the 34 per cent exceedance of the Council’s own height limits is justifiable said: “The subject site is located within the Wyong Employment Zone (WEZ), an area Central Coast Council believes will help create 6,000 jobs and $1.5 billion in investment. “The site is currently

underutilised and the proposed aviation hangar is considered to support Council’s desired future growth in the area.” The dimensions of the Council hangar make it significantly larger than the hangar that is the subject of a DA from AAI although the AAI DA states its hangar will cost more than the substantially larger building proposed by Central Coast Council. In fact, the Council’s hangar is nearly twice the size of the AAI hangar at 2760 square metres. According to the SEE, the Council’s hangar is 16 metres high so that it can accommodate Dash 8 aircraft Bombardier 8-Q400. Website, Mar 10, 2017 Wyong DA tracker, DA223/2017

NEWS

Page 6 March 14, 2017

Back to the future with coal $50 million for mines and power stations food research M

r Mike Campbell, f o r m e r Secretary of Coastal R e s i d e n t s Investigating Power Stations (1985) and former President of Wyong Ratepayers Association, has given an overview of the history of power stations and public health on the Central Coast. In 1984, the then Electricity Commission of NSW (Elcom) had secretly planned for a further two power station complexes in the Wyong area. They were known as Mardi, which was to be placed next to the Mardi Dam at Wyong, and also Olney, to be placed near Dickson’s Rd at Jilliby. Each would have five underground coal mines to feed them. There had earlier been a proposed Chittaway station, which was pushed back by the Wyong community. In the huge community backlash that followed in 1985, we were able to establish that the pollution levels of Vales Point and Munmorah stations were already of great concern. “We had unearthed an academic model study that indicated Sulphur Dioxide levels as being critical around the

Mr Mike Campbell of Jilliby gave evidence at the Federal inquiry into the effects of coal-fired pollution Doyalson area. headlines, not only in The community were the local press, but were also able to obtain a report portrayed on the front prepared by a group of page of every city daily Lake Munmorah doctors newspaper throughout that said that levels of Australia in October, Asthma and Bronchitis 1985. were up to twice the The impact was national average in that widespread, and it had area.” also confirmed outcries A Commission of from the Hunter Valley Inquiry into Electricity area about pollution Planning, which was from power stations and triggered by an Ourimbah mines. landholder, was held. “In Sydney, during the When the local week of February 27, I residents presented the gave all this evidence pollution evidence, the to the Federal Inquiry Commission eventually into the effects of coalfound that no more fired based pollution” Mr stations should be built Campbell said.. on the Central Coast. This evidence of communities in NSW The Lake Munmorah for genuine residents came forward calling cumulative studies into with experiences they public health and the had to endure, particularly power/coal industry over with asthma in young more than 30 years, was children. The stories made presented by myself to

the Federal Inquiry on Retirement of Coal Fired Power Stations. The Area Director of Public Health, in his 2010 submission to the NSW Department of Planning in regard to establishing Wallarah 2 coal mine, also suggested that it is dangerous to simply add another coal mine into the region which is already affected by pollution without studying the air quality that already exists. Several pleas have been made since 1985 to successive governments to study the effects on the region of the power/ coal industry on human health, but like in the Hunter, there has been nothing forthcoming. I believe that the coal and power industry have had special protection from governments for too long, at the expense of human health. Due to the lack of Australian studies, the Climate and Health Alliance in 2015 can only estimate that the annual cost to health from these industries in the Hunter and Central Coast to be around $600 million. Research has to start somewhere and communities must be involved. Article, Mar 1, 2017 Mike Campbell, Australian Coal Alliance

at Campus R

e g i o n a l Development Australia Central Coast CEO, Mr John Mouland, has welcomed the announcement that the Food Agility C o o p e r a t i v e Research Centre (CRC) will be funded with $50 million over ten years, through the Federal Government.

“Regional Development Australia Central Coast is a member of the bid consortium, which was led by the Knowledge Economy Institute at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), together with QUT and Curtin University,” Mr Mouland said. The Food Agility bid has 54 partners, including 15 technology providers, 11 food production companies, seven service providers, seven research providers, six regional development agencies, five government agencies and three industry networks. “At its core, the Central Coast Food Innovation Region Initiative is about leveraging the NSW Central Coast’s underlying existing strengths and realising

economic benefit through growing the local food industry. “The overarching objective of the local initiative is to grow jobs, build regional business competitiveness and encourage national and international trade. “We’ll be able to achieve this through collaboration, tapping into best practice innovation, education and research capabilities. “The unique combination of partners committed to this initiative creates the opportunity to fast-track the transformation of Australia’s food and agricultural sectors that will directly assist the Central Coast in becoming known as a centre of food excellence. “Regional Development Australia is excited about the possibilities that will be delivered by the Food Agility CRC as it provides Australia and its participating regions with the opportunity to match and surpass the capabilities of our global competitors,” Mr Mouland concluded. Media release, Mar 7, 2017 John Mouland, Regional Development Australia Central Coast

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Page 7 March 14, 2017

NEWS

Community concerned over possible ash dam pollution T

oukley-based Northern Lakes Disability Tourism Precinct (NLDTP) has asked the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for answers to questions about ash dams within the Vales Point Power Station.

Mr Gary Blaschke OAM, said he first contacted the EPA in late August 2016 to discuss concerns about the Vales Point ash dams and their potential to leach into surrounding catchments. “The dams have been in existence since the 1960s with no linings, thus leaving the community needing some assurances that the dams pose no threat to human health or the environment in the region,” Mr Blaschke said. “Delta Electricity, the previous owners of the power station, has already admitted that during high flow periods, the water from the dams overflows into Lake Macquarie,” he said. Delta also breached their licensing conditions on six occasions, of which the EPA are well aware.” According to Mr Blaschke, the ash dams, which are located on the opposite side of the Pacific Highway to Doyalson RSL, are “twice the size of Sydney’s Centennial Park. “I believe they are

Gary Blaschke says the ever-increasing number of trees dying near the ash dams is an indicator of soil leaching leaching and the evidence of that leaching can be seen by the stand of dead trees at Doyalson that has been getting bigger and bigger,” he said. The ash contained in the dams is a by-product of burning coal to produce electricity and is known to contain heavy metals including cadmium. “The EPA replied that the trees died because of pooling from storm water affecting their root systems,” he said. Vales Point is one of the largest coal-fired power stations in NSW and was sold for $1 million, in 2015, to Mr Trevor St Baker, and coal baron, Mr Brian Flannery, who formed Sunset Power International. In January 2017, Mr Blaschke met with Ms Karen Marler, EPA’s Acting Director for the Hunter, and raised the

issue of pooling of surface water and Delta’s response by planting more trees to screen the visual impact. At that meeting, Ms Marler requested a list of specific issues and questions from the Precinct, which Mr Blascke sent to her, in writing, on March 6. In his letter to Ms Marler, Mr Blaschke pointed out that an audit of the Vales Point Power Station in August 2016, identified that: “Not all required information was contained in the licensee’s pollution incident response management report”. The audit also revealed that: “The approved methods for analysing water samples were not being used by the licensee’s laboratory”. “Does this not sound the alarm bells that all samples are invalid

because it contravenes a regulation, law or license?” Mr Blaschke asked. He has asked the EPA to explain how it accepted the pollution incident response when it had missing information and had used invalid analysis of water samples. The EPA has also been asked to provide information about how many times the former Delta Electricity exceeded their license requirements in the past decade. He has requested an aerial photograph of the entire Ash Dam region. “Has anyone overlaid any previous photographs to identify any erosion or breaching of the dam walls?” he asked. Mr Blaschke has asked the EPA to clarify whether or not it has conducted

environmental audits on all aspects of impact by the ash dams, including on the Tuggerah Lakes system. He questioned the decision to plant 25 Eucalypts as a measure to address surface water pooling. “Why not Melaleucas to better deal with surface water detention?” he asked. “Has the EPA changed the license requirements since Sunset Power International P/L took ownership of the site and if so why?” was another question put to the EPA by the Precinct. Mr Blaschke said he did not believe the strategy of capping the ash dams to 650mm was adequate and asked the EPA whether it agreed with that process. He asked the EPA to supply a map identifying

the monitoring points for Air, Surface water and Groundwater. “It is identified in the Audit report that testing of most issues is done on a yearly basis,” Mr Blaschke said, questioning again whether or not the EPA considered that frequency adequate. The EPA has also been asked to provide information about: what Environmental bonds or rehabilitation costs have been included in the license agreement for the entire site of Vales Point Power Station and its tailing dams; the results of seagrass monitoring over the past decade; and, hazardous substances exposed in all reports and processes. The Northern Lakes Disability Tourism Precinct has also requested a meeting with the EPA and Sunset International Pty Ltd, the current owners of the Vales Point power station. The community group also wants the EPA to conduct an onsite tour of the entire site for the community. The Wyong Regional Chronicle has requested an interview with the EPA’s Ms Marler and has also sent written questions to Sunset Power International. Letter, Mar 6, 2017 Interview, Mar 6, 2017 Gary Blaschke, Northern Lakes Disability Tourism Precinct Jackie Pearson, journalist

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NEWS

Page 8 March 14, 2017

Move rail Delta Electricity strongly rejects any pollution claims facility to pay D

elta Electricity has strongly rejected the claims by Environmental Justice Australia about the need for an EPA investigation into air pollution from Vales Point Power Station. Delta Electricity, the trading name for Sunset Power International Pty Ltd which acquired Vales Point from the NSW Government in 2015 for $1 million, labelled Environmental Justice Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s claims as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a gross exaggeration by a group of anti-coal activistsâ&#x20AC;?. C o m p a n y spokesperson, Mr Steve Gurney, said the Vales Point Power Station had been operating since the

1960s and was subject to strict environmental licence conditions with oversight by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is nothing new in this,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The current truck deliveries from a local mine are routed through internal roads. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a regular dust suppression regime for the stockpile roads, using recycled water where possible, with water then contained on site. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On this occasion, no dust left the stockpile site, and there was no licence non-compliance,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delta has consulted with the EPA about this particular event and will continue to work with the regulator to ensure

good environmental outcomes while meeting the electricity demands of the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Under its environmental licence, Delta also monitors local air quality, and these results are reported to the EPA,â&#x20AC;? he said. Mr Gurney rejected suggestions by Environmental Justice Australia that the nearest air quality monitoring was 25 kilometres away as being factually incorrect and deliberately misleading. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delta works with both the local mines and the local community on ways to improve operations on the site. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An example of this can be seen by the significant work that has been undertaken by Delta and the mine to have coal delivered by conveyor from April, 2017.â&#x20AC;? Delta also strongly rejected any suggestion about a lack of investment in the Power Station. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the next two years, Delta will spend in excess of $55 million on

plant investments alone,â&#x20AC;? Mr Gurney said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maintenance outages continue to be conducted on the same frequency as occurred in the past, and major projects that will continue operations beyond 2022 are underway.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delta takes its environmental responsibilities and its relationship with the local community very seriously. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delta maintains a constructive relationship with its nearby community, conducting quarterly forums which include inspections and information on plant updates. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delta has nothing to hide from the local community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An allegation from a Victorian based environment group with an anti-coal platform should not be taken to represent community sentiment.â&#x20AC;? Media release, Feb 28, 2017 Steve Gurney, Delta Electricity

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for Link Road

he State Government could move its proposed inter-city rail maintenance facility from the troubled Kangy Angy site to Warnervale as a way to fund the proposed Link Road from Watanobbi to Warnervale.

The Kangy Angy Residents Action Group (KARAG) has said it is not too late for the NSW Government to change its mind about locating the new inter-city train maintenance facility at Warnervale. KARAG Chairman, Mr Tony Caldersmith OAM, said a move to a site in Warnervale could also create an opportunity to fund the proposed Link Road between Watanobbi and Warnervale. â&#x20AC;&#x153;TfNSW (TfNSW) is currently struggling with the selection of Kangy Angy for the fast train maintenance site because its poor access and flooding problems have delayed the project,â&#x20AC;? Mr Caldersmith said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To solve some of their problems they intend to build an expensive bridge from the site over the main train lines to Enterprise Drive and connect to that road with a large roundabout. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is not an ideal solution because Enterprise Dve is a 90 km per hour road and the heavy trucks entering and leaving the site will then have to travel up to the new roundabout at Wyong Rd, then go west along Wyong Rd to get to the M1 motorway â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not a good addition to these roads that are already struggling with heavy traffic,â&#x20AC;? he said. Unlike the Kangy Angy site, the Warnervale location Mr Caldersmith wants the NSW Government to reconsider, was listed highly on the original TfNSW site evaluation list

but was excluded by the former Wyong Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property department in 2014 on the grounds the Council was going to build an â&#x20AC;&#x153;education facilityâ&#x20AC;? in the area and construct a Link Rd between Watanobbi and Warnervale. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Both those would actually have been somewhat west of the TfNSW maintenance site,â&#x20AC;? Mr Caldersmith said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Central Coast Council retains an interest in having the Link Road and it is in the new Central Coast Regional Plan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The problem with this is that the NSW Roads Department has rejected funding the $50 million road on the basis that it is not financially viable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The suggested TfNSW maintenance site at Warnervale would need a heavy vehicle road from the site to sparks Rd, probably around 2km which TfNSW would normally fund as part of this project. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If TfNSW were prepared to fund a proportion of the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Link Rd, it could make the Link Rd a viable proposition. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Council would, therefore, gain an advantage from having the TfNSW maintenance site at Warnervale as well as avoiding the heavy traffic increase on Wyong Rd. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Central Coast gets the Link Rd at an affordable cost and TfNSW gets a much simpler site, minimal flooding, good access, no residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interference and a site that was originally assessed very favourably by the evaluation team,â&#x20AC;? Mr Caldersmith said. Letter, Interview, Mar 10, 2017 Tony Caldersmith, Kangy Angy Residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Action Group Jackie Pearson, journalist

Page 9 March 14, 2017

NEWS

Compass Housing to deliver 600 new dwellings for Social and Affordable Housing Fund L

eading community housing provider, Compass Housing, has been awarded a major contract from the NSW Government to help boost social and affordable housing, including new dwellings for Wyong.

The Social and Affordable Housing Fund (SAHF) is a key component of the Future Directions for Social Housing in NSW strategy, that will result in more social and affordable housing dwellings linked to tailored support, to help households gain independence. The SAHF is the first initiative of its kind for the social housing sector, and will see Compass Housing deliver 600 new dwellings built across the Newcastle, Wyong, Lake Macquarie, Gosford, Maitland and Singleton local government areas. Eighty per cent of the new dwellings will be for people currently on the social housing waiting list in the Central Coast area. The remaining 20 per

cent will be allocated under an affordable housing model in which rent is capped at no more than 74.9 per cent of the market rate. Compass Group Managing Director, Greg Budworth, said the projects would help address shortfalls of housing which are driving affordability issues for key workers and low income families. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a shortage of social and affordable housing right across the country, and the Central Coast is no exception,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NSW Government deserves major credit for taking bold steps to increase supply. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Adequate housing is crucial to a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wellbeing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Without it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next to impossible to make a go of things in any other part of your life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Innovative solutions like the SAHF will be critical to addressing the current shortfall and allowing more vulnerable people to experience the stability that comes from having a suitable and

affordable place to live.â&#x20AC;? The 600 new dwellings will create approximately $200 million worth of activity in the construction sector and will support hundreds of local jobs in the process. The HIA estimates that the economic multiplier for housing construction is around 5:1, which puts the full economic impact of the new dwellings at around $1 billion in the Hunter and Central Coast regions. The SAHF is funded by the returns generated from $1.1 billion worth of seed funding invested by NSW Treasury Corporation. Under the new contract, Compass will manage the delivery of the dwellings and provide ongoing tenancy and property management, tenant support coordination services, and performance reporting on program outcomes for 25 years. As well as receiving tenancy and property management, tenants of the new properties will have access to Compassâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; community engagement

programs which promote tenant participation and wellbeing. The NSW Council of Social Service welcomed the announcement of projects to be delivered under the first phase of the Social and Affordable Housing Fund (SAHF). NCOSS President, Mr Tony Davies, said the projects showed that the SAHF was an important tool encouraging new strategies to boost social and affordable housing across the State. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With 60,000 households currently on the social housing waiting list in NSW, and households increasingly experiencing rental stress, we need to be encouraging all the new

thinking we can to boost social and affordable housing in NSW,â&#x20AC;? he said. Mr Davies said he now hoped a second phase of the SAHF could get underway soon to fund at least 5,000 additional units of social and affordable housing in NSW along with support services that build a truly holistic approach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The possibilities for combining boosts in housing stock with wrap around services are huge. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Future iterations of the SAHF should be looking to deliver targeted housing options that will meet the needs of particular groups experiencing disadvantage such Aboriginal people, older women, young people,

women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, and people in rural, regional and remote areas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And with the transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme underway, we are also keen for the SAHF to boost supply of housing that works for people with disability, as the private market is not well placed to respond, even with financial assistance.â&#x20AC;? Media release, Interview, Mar 10, 2017 Martin Kennedy, Compass Housing Media release, Mar 10, 2017 Laura MacLean, NSW Council of Social Service Jackie Pearson, journalist

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NEWS

Page 10 March 14, 2017

Coast Meals on Wheels pilots pet deliveries

Federal Parliament hears about inadequate emergency communication services F

ederal Member for Dobell, Ms Emma McBride, has renewed calls for an improved emergency broadcast service reaching the Wyong region following the February storms.

“Fortunately, the damage was not to the scale of the super storms of 2015 and 2016, but once again, we are reminded of the urgent need to boost our communications network,” Ms McBride said during a speech in Federal Parliament. “Emergency radio broadcasts provide vital information during extreme weather events and natural disasters such as weather and power updates, safety advice, information on local road closures and evacuation warnings,” she said. “Unfortunately, ABC Radio Central Coast’s reception is severely limited.

“Only the Gosford CBD receives a clear signal. “Many surrounding suburbs do not. “I am particularly concerned about residents who live west of the M1 motorway having little or no mobile reception and being in a flood and fire-prone area. “Their safety relies on effective communication in an emergency.” Ms McBride said the Central Coast must be recognised as a standalone region which requires a reliable emergency broadcast service. “In June 2015, the government announced funding for four new mobile phone base stations at Dooralong, Lemon Tree, Wyong Creek and Yarramalong. “At the time, residents were promised that: ‘these first bases will be rolled out in the second half of 2015. “It has not happened. “Telstra currently estimates that the tower

If you’re reading this, so could up to 150,000 other people

at Wyong Creek will be operational in 2018, with the others up and running sometime later in 2017. “Residents of Cedar Brush Creek, Dooralong, Jilliby, Kulnura, Little Jilliby, Wyong Creek and Yarramalong deserve accurate, up-to-date, information, and I am disappointed that they have not received it from this government,” she said. Ms McBride also criticised the rollout of new communication infrastructure on the Coast as being “equally disappointing”. “Residents in Wyreema Rd, Warnervale, have been badly let down. “They cannot get ADSL broadband and still have no NBN, despite their suburb being switched on a long time ago. “I raised this with the Minister for Communications and months later received this response from his chief of staff. “He said: ‘These residents should expect to be connected in February, 2017.’ “Well, time is up. “They are not connected.

“How much longer do they have to wait? “The government has confirmed that these properties, as well as other homes in Brush Rd, Wamberal, and Oak Rd, Matcham, for example, will be serviced by micronodes. “They say this is necessary for premises that may be unable to receive high-speed broadband by the local fibre-to-the-node network. “This is a startling admission from a government that backed fibre to the node as a viable alternative to Labor’s fibre-to-thehome technology. “The government has misled our community on fibre to the node and continues to bungle the rollout of its patchwork of technologies,” she said. Ms McBride asked Central Coast residents to share their experiences with the Joint Standing Committee on the National Broadband Network currently holding an inquiry. Transcript, Mar 2, 2017 Emma McBride, Federal Member for Dobell

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SW Minister for Ageing, Ms Tanya Davies, has announced a $17,980 grant to go toward a pilot program to enable older people to stay with their much-loved pets for longer. The ‘Meals on Wheels for Furry Friends’ pilot program, an initiative of Tuggerah-based Meals On Wheels Central Coast, will see volunteers deliver low-cost, nutritious pet food to elderly petowners across the region. “Some older people find the needs of their pets overwhelming, but pet ownership has proven health benefits, both physical and mental,” Mrs Davies said while launching the program at Tuggerah. “This funding will enable seniors in the community to better care for their pets, continuing the companionship for as long as possible.” Delivery will begin next month and initially reach more than 150 senior residents living in the Central Coast region. “Meals on Wheels work tirelessly to improve the lives of older people and their valuable contribution is highly deserving of this funding,” Mrs Davies said. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast,

Mr Scot MacDonald, congratulated Meals on Wheels for their contribution to the local community. “The ‘Furry Friends’ initiative is a brilliant idea which will make the Central Coast even more liveable for older people. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact the program makes,” Mr MacDonald said. This year, Meals on Wheels Central Coast are celebrating 50 years of providing nutritious meals to older people in the community, allowing them to continue living independently. CEO Dennis Taylor said he was thrilled to receive the grant. “The love and support that pets give is immeasurable and while our volunteers provide a great service they can’t be with our clients 24 hours a day. “It is important to our clients that their pets are kept healthy and this initiative shows we are here to serve the community and are more than just a meal,” Mr Taylor said. The funding was made available through the NSW Government’s Liveable Communities Grants. Media release, Mar 13, 2017 Elizabeth Williams, Office of Tanya Davies

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Page 11 March 14, 2017

NEWS

Calls made for traffic solution for Carters Road

Other Regional News - In brief Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263. Given the arrival of new Central Coast Council, 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 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.

e Frkeeone! Ta

Edition 414

6 March 2017

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

Council to spend $1 million Memorial erected to lone on Peninsula dolphin

Gosford by-election to be held on April 8

Shadow NSW Minister for Roads, Ms Jody McKay, with Member for Swansea, Ms Yasmin Catley, at Carters Rd, Lake Munmorah arters Road, Carters Rd as a priority and accessibility,” Ms project McKay said. Lake Munmorah infrastructure and called on the then “Two out of the 10 desperately needs a candidates at the 2015 projects that the former traffic solution to state election to support Wyong Council identified cater for the two these projects. as priorities involved Primary Schools, two Ms Catley said she upgrading Carters Rd. High Schools, an had written to the NSW “What we’ve seen is Early Childhood Government a number the chaos of Carters Rd Centre, a growing of times calling for a spilling out on the Pacific population and only solution to the traffic and Hwy, and creating serious one way in and out. safety issues at Carters safety issues,” she said. Ms Catley said: “We The NSW Opposition is Rd. Most recently, she know from Council’s now calling on the Roads wrote to the new Roads own fi gures that they’ve Minister to work with Minister, Ms Melinda earmarked $197 million Central Coast Council to Pavey, inviting her to a for key infrastructure fix Carters Rd. NSW Shadow Minister guided tour of Caters Rd. projects this financial Ms Catley, who has year, but Carters Rd isn’t for Roads, Maritime and previously met with one of them. Freight, Ms Jodi McKay, representatives from “That’s just not good joined the Member for Council, Schools and enough,” she said. Swansea, Yasmin Catley, Roads and Maritime “The community is sick for a tour of Carters Rd Education Precinct to Services (RMS) and the and tired of the blame better understand the Department of Education, game that is happening issues faced by motorists is calling for swift action between Council and the address growing State Government. and parents who have to community concerns. grown increasingly They just want to know “The Central Coast their kids can get to frustrated with the traffic is experiencing rapid school safely.” situation. growth, In the 2014 population Media release, so it’s imperative that Transforming the NSW Mar 9, 2017 appropriate plans are in Central Coast report, Matt Murray, office of Yasmin Catley the former Wyong Shire place to address issues Council (WSC) identified like traffic congestion

Two Peninsula Villages residents are celebrating milestone birthdays this month. Two Peninsula Villages residents Labor candidate for Gosford, are celebrating milestone Ms Liesl Tesch, has called the birthdays this month. chance to represent the people of her electorate a “beautiful opportunity”.

Centenarians celebrate birthdays

The Gosford by-election will be Three of Central Coast Council’s A permanent memorial has been held on Saturday, April 8. major projects will inject more erected and dedicated to the than $1 million into the Peninsula. memory of Elusive, Brisbane Water’s lone bottle nosed dolphin.

Woy Woy channel ‘worse Petrol prices skyrocket to 13 cents more than Gosford than halftide rocks’ The entrance to the Woy Woy channel between Lions Park, Woy Woy, and Pelican Island, is getting so shallow that it is becoming a hazard for both commercial and recreational craft.

Peninsula residents have continued to pay, on average more than 13 cents per litre for petrol than their Gosford neighbours.

Association writes to Premier about jetskis The Wagstaffe-Killcare Community Association has written to the NSW Premier and five NSW Government Ministers asking them to take action over the dangerous use of jetskis in areas adjoining Bouddi National Park and elsewhere on the

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

MARCH 9, 2017

YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

PH: 4325 7369

ISSUE 153

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

Remaining former school site Proposed Finance building on Gosford Waterfront Alliance land being sold with proposed former school site approved by disappointed at loss of former Finance Office space JRPP school site as an option Property NSW has confi rmed that the remaining 1.1 hectares of land from the former Gosford Public School, including the 7,000 square metre State Finance Offi ce building, is to be sold as a single parcel of land.

A new commercial building to house NSW Department of Finance workers is on the way for Gosford after receiving Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) approval on Thursday, March 2.

The Gosford Waterfront Alliance (GWA) welcomed the development of a State Finance Offi ce for Gosford, but remained extremely disappointed that the NSW Government went for the quick and easy option of putting it on the iconic

Council nominates Leagues Club Field as location for Performing Arts Centre

Leagues Club Park needs to be retained as open space say ACF

PAC site a reclaimed shale riverbed

Central Coast Leagues Club Field has been nominated as the Central Coast Council’s preferred location for the proposed Regional Performing Arts and Conference Centre (RPACC) for the region.

The Central Coast Branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation has called on the Central Coast Council to reassess their planned location of the Regional Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) in Gosford.

Sea level rise and traffic flow are the most important issues to address when considering any redevelopment of the Gosford Waterfront Precinct, according to local historian and spokesperson for community group, Crown Land Our land, Ms

ALP candidate selection undemocratic Mr John Della Bosca, former Labor Party (ALP) Minister for the Central Coast and a local ALP and community activist, has condemned as arrogant and anti-democratic the ALP National Executive’s decision to select a candidate for Robertson by

Leagues Club Field has for at Preferred location for least 10 years been earmarked a Regional Library and for a City Playground Learning Centre announced Not everyone is convinced the Central Coast Leagues Club Field is the best site for a Performing Arts Centre (PAC) in Gosford.

Central Coast Council announced, at its February meeting, that the Parkside Building on Donnison St, Gosford, is the latest preferred location for a Regional Library and Learning Centre.

The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.centralcoastnews.net Coast Community News focusses on news specifically related to post code areas 2250, 2251, 2260 and articles can also be read and shared on your mobile phone by going to www.coastcommunitynews.com.au.

FORUM Page 12

March 14, 2017

Airport does not serve community C

entral Coast Council’s secret Warnervale Airport Development Opportunities Feasibility Study asked “whether the current land use best serves the community as is, or should such a valuable asset be limited to a small sector of the community?”

The study found that a $5,000 income stream from a property worth $12.75 million represents a poor return on investment to Wyong Shire Council, that the airport would be a financial liability until it was developed or disposed, that an upgrade was too expensive, that it had specific constraints, such as weather, that cessation of operations would benefit surrounding properties and that the airport was rated a ten on the evaluation matrix – an industrial estate rates 19. The Feasibility

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

FORUM Study findings of financial liability have been vindicated by a succession of losses on operations at the airport. A $68,000 loss in 2013/14, $265,000 lost in 2014/15 and $635,000 lost in 2015/16. Add to this write downs in value of $458,000 over the last two years. The Study answers the question it was required to answer. No, the current land use does not best serve the community and such a valuable asset should not be limited to a small sector of the community - no matter how powerful they may be. Amphibian Aircraft International morphed

into the $120, Amphibious Aerospace International in May 2016 as a registered company, however despite the instant inclusion of Aerospace in its new name, AAI is not an aerospace company. AAI intends refurbishing 60 year old antique Albatross aircraft of which there are only 31 left flying in the world, with 53 in museums. Central Coast Council spruiked the AAI proposal as a $100 million, 240 job, 18,000 square metre factory on a 2 hectare lease site. AAI’s development application is for a $2.8 million, 27 job, 2,760 square metre factory occupying the entire 0.68 square metre leased site with no room for expansion. The AAI reality is only 10 per cent of the proposal spruiked by Council, AAI and ex-Premier Baird. NIMBY or pragmatic realist, you be the judge. Email, March 3, 2017 Laurie Eyes, Wyong Creek

Class divide alive and well

s it not strange that a judge, who, I believe, never works weekends and earns thousands of dollars per week, made a ruling that low-paid workers working on a Sunday deserve a pay cut?

FORUM As the old saying goes, ‘laws are always useful to those who have possessions, and harmful to those who have nothing’. The aim of the Coalition is to drive down wages of

low-paid workers, while they themselves gorge on political perks, thanks to the generosity of the Aussie taxpayer. Email, Mar 2, 2017 Richard Ryan, Summerland Point

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.centralcoastnews.net They’re all there and it’s FREE Want to share something you ﬁnd really interes ng, see www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

Still time to save Kangy Angy I

t is not too late to change the Kangy Angy Train maintenance site to a different location.

Since the changes in the Wyong (now Central Coast) Council, the Warnervale site listed highly on the original Transport for NSW site evaluation, but later excluded by the Council’s property department, Warnervale, could now be a potential site again, with a number of advantages over the complicated Kangy Angy location. Warnervale was excluded by the Wyong Council on the grounds that they were going to build an “education facility” in the area and construct a “Link Road” between Watanobbi and Warnervale. Both those would have been somewhat west of

FORUM the Transport for NSW maintenance site, but I guess the Council was wanting to protect their interests. The new Council no longer talks about the “educational facility” but retains an interest in having the Link Road. The problem with this is that the NSW Roads Department has rejected funding the $50 million road on the basis that it is not financially viable. The Council, however, is still keen to find a way to fund it to give a better access between Wyong and Warnervale. The suggested site at Warnervale for your maintenance site would need a heavy vehicle road from the site to Sparks Rd, probably less than 2km. However, if you

were prepared to fund a proportion of the Council’s Link Road (part of which would be used by your transport needs), the Council could well see the advantages of having your maintenance site at Warnervale. That site would eliminate your expensive need to build an over the railway bridge and roundabout as well as taking your heavy duty traffic off the Wyong Road congestion. Result: a much simpler site, minimal flooding, good access, no residential cost and originally assessed by the evaluation team as high on the list. There is still time to change, to everyone’s advantage. Worth a thought? Email, Mar 7, 2017 Tony Caldersmith, Kangy Angy

No apparent benefits W

here’s our plebiscite Gladys?

We at Mannering Park Progress would like to express our dismay at the latest ad hoc council amalgamation farce that now confronts this State. Wyong Council was economically sustainable. We had done the hard yards and now, for the next four years, we will have the privilege of paying 19 per cent per annum, on average, more than Gosford ratepayers, with no guarantee the rate monies collected will be used for works within the old Wyong boundary. The internal polling conducted by Council prior to the amalgamation showed overwhelming support to stay as a

FORUM stand-alone Council. The lack of consultation, and sham community meetings held after the decision to amalgamate had been taken, has left a sour taste in our collective mouths. One vote the other way by any of the five Councillors, Eaton, Best, Troy, Taylor or Webster and we would not be in this position. This amalgamation has been imposed on us. To date we see no discernible improvement in services; higher costs being imposed on not for profit community groups for hiring halls and community spaces; no recognition for the work community groups such as Tidy Towns and Men’s Sheds make to the overall

beauty, health and wellbeing of the communities in which they operate; less meetings and transparency, and policy disparity between the old Councils that will be difficult to resolve. So, we respectfully ask the new Premier to allow us, the community, to have a say in our future by way of a plebiscite before the next Council elections. This would settle once and for all the question about what the public at large think. It is certainly not too late and it might actually make us think the Government cares about us, values our opinion and will uphold its outcome. Email, Feb 15, 2017 Kel Wynn, Mannering Park

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Page 13 March 14, 2017

Strike Force Raptor makes several arrests number of outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG) members and associates have been charged after replica firearms, illicit drugs and cash were seized during an operation across the Central Coast.

At a home on the Pacific Hwy, Doyalson, police seized more than 30 vials of steroids, an amount of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a motorbike which was believed to be stolen. A 40-year-old member of Rebels OMCG was arrested at the scene and taken to Wyong Police Station, where he was charged with four counts of possess prohibited drug, and goods in custody. He was granted bail and is due to appear at Wyong Local Court on Wednesday, March 22. At Oakridge Pl, Woongarrah, officers located 10 cannabis plants, cannabis leaf, MDMA and a hydroponic set up. A 47-year-old member of Finks OMCG was arrested and taken to Newcastle Police Station, where he was charged with cultivate cannabis, possess prohibited

Anyone with information about these incidents should call

Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: http://www1.police.nsw.gov.au/ Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

drug, and use electricity without authority. He was granted bail and is due to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday, March 23. In September 2016, detectives from Brisbane Water Local Area Command commenced an investigation into drug supply and firearms offences in the local area. Following extensive inquiries, detectives executed four search warrants at homes in Umina Beach, Empire Bay and Tumbi Umbi, on Wednesday March 1. During the warrants, police seized two replica firearms, ammunition, more than $40,000 cash, methylamphetamine, cannabis, illicit substances, including steroids, human growth hormones, testosterone; drug paraphernalia, mobile

phones, computers, and electronic storage devices. Following the search warrants, and as part of ongoing strategies to target and disrupt criminal activities of OMCG, the Gangs Squad’s Strike Force Raptor conducted a high-visibility operation on March 1 and 2. With the assistance of officers from Brisbane Water and Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Commands, Strike Force Raptor conducted 21 Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) searches across the Central Coast. In addition to making a number of arrests, police seized cannabis, steroids, a knife, a cross bow, pills, powder, liquid, and a crystal substance, which will undergo forensic analysis. Inquiries are continuing and further charges are expected. Strike Force Raptor was established by State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad in 2009. It is a proactive and high-impact operation targeting outlaw motorcycle gangs and any associated criminal enterprises. Media release, Mar 4, 2017 NSW Police Media

ONTHEBEAT

Commercial drug supply arrests

A Coast-wide operation has resulted in the arrest of multiple gang members

wo men have been charged with drug supply offences as part of an ongoing investigation into criminal activity on the Central Coast.

Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad established Strike Force Dunwarin to investigate criminal activity, including the supply of prohibited drugs, on the Central Coast. Following extensive investigations, strike force investigators arrested a 28-year-old man at Jilliby and a 26-year-old man at Doyalson, about 8.45am on Friday, February 17. Both men were searched by police, and the 28-year-old man was allegedly in possession of

2,000 pills, believed to be MDMA, and the 26-yearold man was allegedly in possession of 294g of MDMA, 54g of cocaine, 1,820g of cannabis, and $21,400 cash. The 28-year-old man was charged with large commercial drug supply, commercial drug supply, three counts of supply prohibited drug, and knowingly deal in proceeds of crime. The 26-year-old man was charged with two counts of commercial drug supply, indictable supply cannabis, indictable drug supply (cocaine), and knowingly deal in proceeds of crime. Both men were refused bail and appeared at Wyong Bail Court on

February 18, where they were formally refused bail. Shortly after the arrests, strike force detectives executed five search warrants at Hamlyn Terrace, Gorokan, Kanwal, Charmhaven, and Woongarrah. Police seized cocaine, steroids, pills believed to be a prohibited drug, an electronic stun device, mobile phones, documents, electronic storage equipment, items consistent with the supply of drugs, clothing, jewellery, cash, and a money counting machine. Investigations are continuing and further arrests are expected. Media release, Feb 20, 2017 NSW Police Media

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HEALTH Page 14

March 14, 2017

Super Hollie holds super hero fund raiser A

Bateau Bay woman who survived stage four bowel cancer, is using her second chance to promote cancer awareness. Ms Hollie Fielder is raising awareness and funds for cancer by hosting a day of fitness challenges, and performing on Central Coast Dancing with the Stars. Four years ago, doctors gave Ms Fielder a five per cent chance of surviving bowel cancer and secondary liver cancer. She underwent chemotherapy and had part of her bowel, liver

and all of her gall bladder removed. Now the 28-year-old, who works as a personal trainer, is cancer free and an advocate for the Cancer Council NSW. She is particularly focused on spreading the word that bowel cancer can affect young people. On March 25, Ms Fielder will host a fundraiser called Be Your Own Superhero at Adcock Park Velodrome. The day of fitness challenges will run from 4:00pm to 7:30pm with profits from ticket sales going to Cancer Council NSW. She will later take part in Central Coast

Worsening of hospital waiting times disputed

Dancing with the Stars, a fundraising event held at Gosford’s Laycock St Theatre. Ms Fielder said she hoped her story would inspire people to take their health seriously. “I truly believe everything happens for a reason,” she said. “I have been given this second chance to make a difference, to inspire others and to help show that bowel cancer is not just an old person’s disease.” Media release, Mar 9, 2017 Cancer Council NSW media Interview, Mar 9, 2017 Hollie Fielder, Bateau Bay Tynan King, journalist

Independent external investigation into fake doctor’s activities needed

n independent e x t e r n a l investigation needs to be set up by the NSW Government to reveal the extent of the activities of a fake doctor who worked in Wyong Hospital for several years, according to NSW Shadow Health Minister, Mr Walt Secord. Mr Secord said NSW Health Minister, Mr Brad Hazzard, owed it to former patients at

Wyong Hospital to get to the bottom of the fake doctor’s activity. The fake doctor worked at Wyong Hospital from October 2004 until January 2005, and at Gosford hospital from February 2003 until June 2004, and then again, from January 2005 until April 2006. In addition, he worked at both Gosford and Wyong Hospitals from June 2004 until October 2004. Mr Secord said the fake doctor worked under 12 separate State and

Central Coast

Federal governments; however, the current State government had a responsibility to get to the bottom of this matter. Mr Secord said he offered his in-principle bipartisan support to any measures the State government was considering to tighten this area of health law. “The Central Coast community has a right to know if his activity led to deaths,” Mr Secord said. “It is perplexing as to why Mr Hazzard would not reveal whether the fake doctor performed procedures, or his activities as a doctor. “NSW Health and hospitals in NSW just lurch from crisis to crisis.” Media release, Mar 10, 2017 Walt Secord, NSW Shadow Minister for Health

Proudly catering to the Central Coast community for almost 50 years.

he NSW Opposition has attacked the Liberal Government over its failure to reduce the lengthy wait times in Wyong Hospital, as well as its plan for privatisation.

Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, and Shadow Minister for Health, Mr Walt Secord, said Wyong Hospital’s emergency and elective surgery wait times were unacceptable. Mr Harris and Mr Secord made the comments after the release of data from a recent Bureau of Health Information (BHI) quarterly report. They said the data, which they released to coincide with the visit to Central Coast by NSW Health Minister, Mr Brad Hazzard, on Friday, March 3, showed that Wyong Hospital’s emergency and elective surgery waits were some of the worst in the State. They said the report showed that almost one in three patients in the emergency department

waited longer than the national benchmark of four hours, with 798 patients waiting longer than nine and a half hours. They also claimed the report showed that response times in elective surgery were little better, with the wait for nonurgent elective surgery at 226 days, and with 10 per cent of patients waiting 341 days – almost a year. Mr Secord said Wyong Hospital was under enormous pressure and that under-resourcing by the Liberals at State and Federal levels, as well as population growth, had contributed to the above average wait times. “Under the Liberals, patients wait at every stage; they wait for an ambulance, they wait at the emergency department, they wait for a bed and then they wait for surgery,” he said. Mr Harris and Mr Secord also reiterated their opposition to the privatisation of Wyong Hospital, saying Labor “opposes the Americanisation of the public health system.”

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World first medical app local nurse who experienced vision loss as a result of her diabetes has become the inspiration for a world-first medical app.

A Berkeley Vale local, Ms Julia Clarke, was diagnosed with diabetic macular oedema (DME) two and half years ago. This resulted in vision loss caused by accumulation of fluid in the macula as a result of diabetes.

Following medical appointments and complicated treatments, Ms Clarke’s story became the basis for Diabetic Macular Oedema Xplained, a free app which aims to explain the complicated disease information to patients and their families through graphic storytelling. The app follows Ms Clarke’s journey and breaks down what diabetic macular oedema is, explains risk factors, treatment options, as well as side effects and

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Mr Harris said: “The community’s views are clear; Central Coast patients and families want a public hospital at Wyong not a private one. “We do not want to see a two-tiered system where your healthcare is determined by the size of your wallet.” However, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, said the wait times were better now than when Labor was in power. He said: “When Labor was kicked out of office in NSW in 2011, just 55 per cent of patients at Wyong Hospital left emergency within four hours. “In the last quarter of 2016, that has improved to 69.4 per cent of patients at Wyong Hospital.” He added: “The Liberal Government has committed $200million to Wyong Hospital.”

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psychological issues. Ms Clarke said she felt compelled to tell her story to others living with diabetes as her diagnosis is not an uncommon experience. The app has been developed with input from patients, ophthalmologists, researchers and nurses. It is one of many from Medicine X, a start-up founded by Australian medical professional, Dr Kim Chilman-Blair, that converts difficult to understand medical jargon around a range of diseases like diabetes and prostate cancer into engaging and easy to understand graphic narratives that users can download as apps for free. Media release, Mar 2, 2017 Aurelie Rimbaut, Hill+Knowlton Strategies

Page 15 March 14, 2017

School students get on track

New children’s programs r Andy Griffiths, author of the hugely successful Treehouse series, is just one of many Aussie authors and comedians who read stories on one of three programs recently acquired by Central Coast Libraries.

Central Coast Council is hosting several free workshops to help children learn how to use the new e-resources and the online catalogue. Story Box Library is an educational program for kids offering a selection of Australian children’s stories read out loud and on film. The two other programs are Rainforest Coding and Ten Monkeys. Council Group Leader Connected Communities,

Ms Julie Vaughan, said one of Council’s priorities for Coast libraries was ensuring the community had access to the latest technologies. “As we move further into the digital age these platforms are another great way to empower kids to learn, and are just a couple of the many learning tools our Council libraries have that foster digital learning and literacy in our youngsters,” Ms Vaughan said. “Council libraries are committed to investing in educational activities for children in order to make sure they are well equipped for life and ultimately the work force.” Rainforest Coding introduces the visual programing language ‘Scratch’ to children from 5 years of age, and is a

collection of adventures including Return to Crystal Rainforest and Echo Island. Ten Monkeys is a mathematical resource suitable for children aged 6-10 years. It offers mathematics learning content for primary school students in a fun and game-like environment. The new e-resources are free and are currently available at from Central Coast Libraries website for library members. The first workshop is on March 20, from 10am to 11am at Tuggerah Library, and the second workshop is on April 3, from 10am to 11am at Lake Haven Library. Bookings are essential. Media release, Mar 7, 2017 Central Coast Council Media

Ongoing issues around pedestrian safety L

isarow residents and members of the Lisarow High School P&C have met with Member for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan, to discuss ongoing issues around pedestrian safety at Lisarow Railway Station.

Residents from Lisarow said that they were unhappy with a lacklustre response from the NSW Minister for Transport, after amassing more than 1,000 signatures calling on the State Government to upgrade mobility infrastructure for the station. The Lisarow High

School P&C said upgrades to the Pacific Hwy next to the station had made pedestrian safety an issue, with a heavier load of traffic becoming a cause for concern, with students dangerously crossing the road due to the lights taking up to seven minutes to cycle through. Mr Mehan said the meeting was a fantastic example of people power from those who want to see change in their community. “A special mention would have to go to Ms Anne Love, who organised all of the residents to come out and battle the weather

to show that they are serious about seeing their station made more accessible to everyone,” Mr Mehan said. “Short of a slap of new paint for some of our stations, the State Liberal Government has done nothing to make significant upgrades to our stations across the Central Coast. “We have growth in both our ageing population and young families, and we need to ensure we have the infrastructure we need to accommodate them,” Mr Mehan said. Media release, Feb 28, 2017 Peter Duggan, Office of David Mehan

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EDUCATION

From left: Coast health workers with NSW Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian (front centre), Minister for Mental Health, Ms Tanya Davies, Member for Terrigal , Mr Adam Crouch with school representatives

oukley and North Lakes Public Schools will lead the region in trialling preventative disruptive behaviour program Getting on Track in Time (Got It).

Got It is an early intervention program aimed at helping children with disruptive behaviour disorders and $11 million in funding has been thrown behind the programs implementation on the Central Coast. The program was announced by NSW Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian, and Minister for Mental Health, Ms Tanya Davies, at Gosford’s Gateway Centre on March 6. “This program has significantly helped children aged 5-8 who have been experiencing behaviour difficulties,” Ms Berejiklian said. “Now it will be

benefiting children on the Central Coast, as well as families, teachers and staff who’ll be given the necessary skills and support,” she said. Ms Davies said the NSW Government introduced the Got It pilot five years ago to help children from Kindergarten to Grade 2 with emerging behaviour problems. “While conduct disorder is the most common childhood mental disorder with the greatest long-term costs to the individual, families and society, it also responds well to intervention,” Ms Davies said. “The Got It pilot has delivered real results, helping both children and their families in one of the most important developmental phases,” she added. Under the NSW Mental Health Reform, specialist mental health services in

Photo: Dilon Luke

the community are being enhanced, including a state wide roll-out of the Got It program. Got It is delivered over two school terms with clinicians working with parents/carers and the school to identify children who could benefit from early intervention. Children identified as at risk of developing further problems with emotions and behaviour attend a 10 week ‘Exploring Together’ group, with a parent or carer while the whole school benefits from the universal ‘Fun Friends’ program delivered by teachers throughout the year.

Media conference, Mar 6, 2017 Gladys Berejiklian, NSW Premier Tanya Davies, Minister for Mental Health Media release, Mar 6, 2017 Casey Virgin, Central Coast Local Health District Dilon Luke, Journalist

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OUT&ABOUT Page 16

March 14, 2017

Boardwalk to be built over Killarney vale saltmarsh L

a n d c a r e volunteers have started rehabilitation on an area where a boardwalk is to be built in Killarney Vale.

Three educational signs with information on how the community can help protect vulnerable wildlife that call Tuggerah Lakes home, will be installed as part of the project. A range of internationally protected bird species live at the Lakes, including resident waterbirds such as the chestnut teal and the near threatened bartailed godwit, famous for flying 11,500km in nine days, from Alaska to New Zealand, the longest nonstop flight of any bird in the world. Protecting this wildlife has been earmarked as an important part of the Killarney Vale project, which will see a 200m

The bar-tailed godwit Photo: Gerard Satherley

boardwalk constructed over an area of saltmarsh near Lucinda Ave, Killarney Vale, over the next few months. The signs will also provide educational information for the community about the

birds and other wildlife. Central Coast Council’s group leader of assets, infrastructure and business, Mr Mike Dowling, said protecting the wildlife of the Lakes was crucial in maintaining balance.

“For the many birds that call Tuggerah Lakes home, this is an important feeding habitat, which includes things like worms, molluscs and aquatic insects,” Mr Dowling said. “This wildlife faces

enormous challenges for survival due to pollution, loss of habitat from coastal and estuary development, threats from cats and dogs, and disturbance from foot and vehicle traffic, and we ask the community to do their bit to help. “We can make a big difference by doing simple things like keeping cats and dogs well away, choosing the opposite end of a sandbar to birds when fishing, and preventing pollution by remembering that almost all rubbish ends up in rivers, lakes and the ocean.” Council is currently undertaking a bush care program at the site that involves planting native food trees for the birds. The signs and boardwalk will make the area safer and more accessible, making it possible for school and

community groups to use it and learn about the environment. Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the project demonstrated Council’s commitment to a sustainable environment for the Central Coast. “The boardwalk itself is good for the environment as it will stop the saltmarsh from deteriorating further from human impact, and will make the area safer and more accessible for the community, including school groups and tourists,” he said. The project has been made possible due to funding from the National Landcare Program. Media release, Mar 3, 2017 Central Coast Council Media

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Page 17 March 14, 2017

OUT&ABOUT

Shelly Beach couple celebrates 60th anniversary

Vale Col Stephens

Col and Ruth Stephens

he Rotary Club of Northlakes Toukley has acknowledged the death of loyal and committed Rotarian, Mr Col Stephens.

Mr Stephens had been a Rotarian for many years before coming to Toukley Rotary Club, after his former club, Lake Munmorah Rotary Club, closed in 2002. He was a founding member of Lake Munmorah Rotary Club. Mr Stephens was President of Toukley Rotary Club in 2003 to 2004 and, during that year, the first female member was inducted, an historic moment in the life of the club. He was responsible for securing a major sponsor (Valhalla Village) for the annual art show, and the club was awarded the District Governor's trophy for small clubs.

During his presidency, Mr Stephens saw the rebuilding of Toukley Rotary Club after a number of members left the club. He was instrumental in welcoming nine new members to the club, a record number. “Col was a gentle man who contributed to our work with dedication and enthusiasm,” said Northlakes Toukley Rotary Club President, Mr Mitch Cowan. “Col was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship for his service to Rotary in 2011,” Mr Cowan said. “He will be greatly missed by all. “The Rotary Club of Northlakes Toukley sends our deepest sympathies to Col's wife Ruth, his children, Helen and Peter, and their families.” Email, Mar 7, 2017 Mitch Cowan, Rotary Club of Northlakes Toukley

Bill and Joan Kirby, celebrating 60 years

couple who left England for Australia in 1960 have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Mr and Ms Bill and Joan Kirby, of Shelly Beach, celebrated 60 years of marriage at their church in Kanwal. Surrounding them for the milestone were friends and members of their huge family. They have five children, 23 grandchildren and 44 great-grandchildren. But Mr Kirby, 82 and Mrs Kirby, 79, almost weren’t married. “The trouble was Joan’s mother used to read these novels

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about villains who wore tweed jackets and had moustaches,” Mr Kirby, who wore both, said. “So she obviously didn’t think too highly of me.” However, the affable Mr Kirby won over Joan’s mother and married the girl of his dreams in England in 1957. For the upbeat Shelly Beach couple, their anniversary on the beautiful Central Coast was a reminder that they were doubly lucky. Mr Kirby said they had dreamed of living in Australia, but when they were married and had children, they thought it would be impossible.

He said: “But one day, Joan came home and said: “do you still want to live in Australia? We can get there for ten pounds”. The two paid up and moved in 1960. Despite having two small children, no money and few job prospects, the Kirby’s were happy with their new life. They settled briefly in Sydney, where they lived in a hostel that was little more than a storage shed, before they moved to Queensland, where Bill found work as a prison guard and sign writer. In 1994, they purchased property at Shelly Beach, and when Bill retired in 2000, they moved in.

Once again, they reflected on how lucky they were. Mr Kirby said the highlight of their life together was the wonderful family they started in Australia. But he joked that there was so many of them that their anniversary had to be a potluck dinner party. Mr Kirby said he thought the teachings of the Church of the Latter Day Saints had helped their long marriage. He said: “Other than that, it’s just giving 100 per cent.” Interview, Feb 23, 2017 Bill and Joan Kirby, Shelly Beach. Tynan King, journalist

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

Page 18 March 14, 2017

Central Coast Volunteering Community Central Coast Legal Centre Central Coast Not for profit org in Wyong Refer potential volunteers Potters Society providing free legal advice. to community organisations Classes, workshops, and provide support to demonstrations, exhibitions Intake times for legal advice Monday to Friday 9am-5pm volunteers and community and social events. Annual Lorraine Stewart organisations. exhibitions in May and 4353 4988 Training for volunteers and December. centralcoast@clc.net.au managers of volunteers Open Day in Sept Information Sessions held 4324 5343 Central Coast 50+ regularly across the Coast info@ccpotters.org Singles Social Group 4329 7122 Invites Ladies & Gents for recruit@volcc.org.au dinner, dancing - BBQs & Socialising each w/e. Wrap with Love Central Coast Cat Care Monthly programme for all Knitting blankets for cold $20 Desexing Special areas of the coast humanity. Cats only 0412 200 571 Donations of 8ply yarn 0437 699 366 gratefully received No Pedigrees 50pssg@gmail.com Long Jetty: 4333 4353 4388 6448 Toukley 4399 3351 4325 3163 Central Coast Social Group Wyong Neighbourhood COMMUNITY GROUPS Social contact, Centre entertainment events, new Supporting disadvantaged ARPRA friendships, for 30’s-60’s vulnerable and isolated ARPRA is the peak body representing residents living Live music, house parties, members of our community offering a range of in Residential Land Lease dinners, BBQs, picnics, trips away etc. community services, events, Communities in NSW. Monthly Meet & Chat projects, workshops, arts We are a non-profit org 0422 243 101 programs and an open providing advice and email cco30s@live.com.au community garden. advocacy and training 4353 1750 4358 8246 Gambling Solutions arpranorthlakes@outlook.com.au Gambling help counsellors Wyong Toastmasters providing free confidential Club Bateau Bay professional service to gamblers, family and friends Vibrant, progressive group. Men’s Shed Woy Woy, Kincumber, Conquer your fears of public Environment for mature Gosford and The Entrance speaking in a supportive aged men to repair items, 4344 7992 learn-by-doing environment. share and learn skills and 10.30am - 1st, 3rd and 5th socialise Lake Munmorah Senior 9am to 1.30pm Friday Citizens Club Tue to Thur Wyong RSL Computer Classes, dancing, 1 Bay Village Road, Anzac Ave Wyong exercise, pilates, yoga, craft, Bateau Bay 4328 8297 joppa@theorchards.com.au carpet bowls and Tai Chi. 0435 807 633 bateaubayshed@gmail.com 4358 8390

ARTS&CULTURE

ANIMAL CARE

Bateau Bay Neighbourhood Centre Financial Counselling, Tool Library, Computer Hub and Computer Lessons, Private Art Therapy Sessions, Homework Help, Self Esteem Group, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group, EAPA-Energy Accounts Payment Assistance, Early Links Outreach Worker, Tax Help, Holiday activities for kids and young people, Community Garden, Events, Referral Services, Op Shop and Food Store. Community BBQ on first Thurs 4332 7450 http://bbnc.org.au

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre 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

Long Jetty Senior Citizens Club Computer classes, line dancing, tai chi and zumba gold - M-F, 9am to 3pm for full list of activities 4332 5522 Long Jetty Over 50s Club Indoor bowls, computers, exercises, yoga, linedancing, tai chi and more 9am to 3pm 4332 5522 Mingaletta Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Corporation Meeting place and referral hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs through consultative services and community programs Mon-Fri 9am 4pm 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

The NSW Justices Association Inc Seeking volunteers for 8 community JP Desks in Wyong Area Free Insurance and training provided 0418 493 388 benefits@nswja.org.au

GARDEN CLUBS Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Club 3rd Sat 1 to 3.30pm Plants for Sale, Raffles, afternoon tea Charmhaven Community Centre 0401 544 052 4399 2420 Central Coast Permaculture meet friendly like minded people at our information night held at Tuggerah Community Hall on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. 6:30 for 7pm start Bob on 0414 133 808

HEALTH GROUPS Better Hearing Australia Central Coast Hearing loss management Support and educational group providing practical experience and confidence Learn the benefits to hearing aids 4321 0275 www.centralcoast.betterhearing australia.org.au

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Gosford) Meet last Fri Terrigal Uniting Church 380 Terrigal Drive, Terrigal 9.30am to 12 noon 4367 9600 www.pcfa.org.au

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Wyong) Meet last Mon Toukley RSL Club, Holmes Ave Toukley 10.00am to 12 noon 4356 9300 www.pcfa.org.au

GROW Support Groups Small friendly groups formed to learn how to overcome anxiety, depression and loneliness and to improve mental health and well-being. Anonymous, free and open to all. Weekly meetings at Bateau Bay and Wyong 1800 558 268 www.grow.org.au

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

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

Central Coast Greens The Central Coast Greens For a fairer, more transparent and accountable government based on democratic principles Local, state-wide, national and international issues and campaigns - Council and parliamentary representation Developing a new economy Protecting our environment Peaceful conflict resolution Community participation We meet monthly every 3rd Thu - Details and info: centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au centralcoastgreens@gmail.com

NSW Labor Party The Entrance Day Branch Monthly meetings to discuss and debate policy as well as campaign for local labor candidates and Members of Parliament. 2nd Mon 2pm The Entrance Leagues Club 4332 2907

Politics in the Pub Central Coast Discussion of important political, social, economic, educational and philosophy issues in a non partisan manner. The Grange Hotel 4th Thur (ex Dec)

People with a second language encouraged to apply. Training & support provided 4334 3877 cvscc@nsservices.com.au

Thur, Sat, Sun (weather permitting) Bloodtree Rd Mangrove Mountain 0412 164 082 0414 635 047 www.ccsoaring.com.au

Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Bridge Club Warnervale Branch Volunteers wanted, Social bridge Tues, 9.45am- NSW Labor Party challenging conditions, 1pm To support and promote interrupted meals, early The Greens The Entrance NSW Labor within the starts, breathtaking (with or without a partner) Warnervale area. Tuggerah Lakes views. Len 4332 6989 1st Tue 7pm Rewards: - Saving David 4392 0606 Hamlyn Terrace distressed boaters or maybe Community Centre saving a life Tuggerah Lakes U3A 0419 128 497 0488 442 051 Long Jetty - Discussions, warnervale.labor@gmail.com uc.tuggerahlakes@marinerescuensw. play reading, cryptic com.au crosswords, talks, readers group, Mahjong SPECIAL INTEREST Toukley - Creative writing, Toowoon Bay Biz Plus Networking French conversation Probus Club Association Berkeley Vale - Music Morning tea, guest speakers Grow your business Appreciation talking on topics relevant to and in the process build Chittaway Bay - Movies Seniors, as well as regular worthwhile relationships. 4390 2451 exciting social events. 4th www.tugglakesu3a.info Biz Networking breakfasts Thur 10am. Every Thur 7:15- 9am Anglican Church Hall, Mingara Indoor Erina Leagues Club Cnr Brooke Ave & Eastern Bowls Club Geoff Neilson Rd., Bateau Bay Daily competition (singles, network@bizplus.com.au 4334 3979 pairs & triples) Winner’s Prize Strongly social. Sun Central Coast Tenants’ Tuggerah Combined 9.30am- Noon. Advice and Advocacy Probus Club Inc Mon 6.30–9pm. Service Meet new friends and enjoy Free telephone advice and Wed 9.30am-2pm social events. Ray 4389 2567 advocacy for all tenants 2nd Thur., 10:30am, guest Mingara Club as well as residents in speakers. 4349 7799 residential parks raymurphy1935@hotmail.com Social outings 3rd Thur. 4353 5515 Woodbury Park Community cctaas@hotmail.com Hall, Mardi 4351 0450 National Parks KI-DO Mingara Judo Association Academy Central Coast Junior boys and girls Twice weekly bush walks, Mon and Wed Two classes Inner Wheel Club varying distances and 6-8.30pm from 7yrs Kangy Wyong grades of difficulty. Angy Women’s club with the Explore, enjoy scenery, 0413 237 010 common interest of giving fauna, flora, history. Keep www.kidomingarajudo.com.au back to the community fit and make friends while developing lasting 4389 4423 & friendships. 4332 7378 WOMENS GROUPS 7.00 pm 3rd Wed Wyong BPW Central Coast Uniting Church Naval Association Empowering women of all 4393 2755 of Australia ages in the areas of work, iiw.au.wyong@gmail.com Tuggerah Lakes SS education, well-being and Meeting of serving and friendship. The Rotary Club of the ex-serving naval personnel Monthly dinner meetings, Entrance Inc. male and female who will two course meal and A small, friendly and have an interest in naval speaker. effective club supporting ways and discussing the Community transport avail. many local organisations, ways of the present Navy Chris Levis and international Rotary 2nd Sat monthly at Diggers 0438 989 199 Activities. Club, The Entrance bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com Meetings 6.30 pm Tues 4389 4004 www.bpw.com.au/central-coast Mingara Recreation Club 0409 449 498 Central Coast Lapidary Northern Women’s rotarytheentrance@gmail.com Club Minerals & Gems Health Centre Learn silverwork, Family law advice, Torchbearers for Cabochons, Faceting, counselling, therapeutic and Legacy Toukley Enamelling, Stone Fieldtrips social groups, workshops, Raising funds for Brisbane & fossicking Weekly domestic violence and Waters Legacy. Harry Workshops Tues and Thurs abuse issues. Moore Golf Day, Garage 8.30am-2.30pm All services are provided by markets and street stalls. Thurs 6-10pm 10 Ourimbah women for women 2nd Mon 9.30am Norah Creek Rd Ourimbah 4351 1152 Head Legacy 4362 2246 www.cccwhc.com.au cclapidary@optusnet.com.au 0414 701 489

PROBUS CLUBS

SPORT

SERVICE GROUPS

hartas@bigpond.net. aurotarytheentrance@gmail.com

Northern Settlement Services - Volunteers Friendly visits to the elderly in nursing homes.

Central Coast Soaring Club Inc Gliding Club, Learn to fly, Instruction FREE to members. 14 Y/O and up for Training

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

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.

Page 19 March 14, 2017

OUT&ABOUT

Danielle Habib is Classic book comes Wyong electorate local alive on stage woman of the year T

he Art House Wyong, will present a national tour of Australian children’s literature classic, Diary of a Wombat this April.

Produced by company, Monkey Baa, the production based off of the picture book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley, will show at the Art House on April 1. Millions of young people around the world have adored Diary of a Wombat, and now this iconic work has been adapted for the stage for the first time. This landmark Australian production will feature stunning puppetry, a live cello score and set design in

Monkey Baa’s signature style. Audiences aged three and over will meet Mothball, the naughtiest wombat in Australia. Bored with her daily routine, Mothball goes in search of shelter and food, creating chaos in the lives of the humans around her. Doormats, bins and washing lines are no match for this mischievous marsupial. Between a packed schedule of scratching, sleeping and eating, Mothball discovers that with a bit of persistence humans are quite easily trained. Director, Eva Di Cesare, said: “We've assembled an extraordinary team of artists to bring this iconic

picture book to life. “Diary of a Wombat is such an enduring childhood classic and audiences are going to fall in love with Mothball all over again when she burrows her way on to our stage.” Jackie French said: "What Monkey Baa has done is extraordinary. In fact, what they have done is impossible, but Monkey Baa has always done the impossible." Following its Sydney premiere Diary of a Wombat will tour 59 venues across Australia until November and will make its Central Coast debut at The Art House. Media release, Mar 6, 2017 Emily Carryer, The Art House

From left: Member for Wyong, Mr David Harris with Danielle Habib and her sister Claudette

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

Tuesday, Mar 14 Better Health Self Management Workshop, Lake Haven Shopping Centre, Goobarabah Ave, Lake Haven, 10:00am to 12:30pm

Wednesday, Mar 15 Waste Wise organize gardening workshop, Buttonderry waste facility

Gwandalan Bowlo, 7:30pm Crawfish Stew, Royal Hotel, Wyong, 8:00pm How to avoid being scammed, The Entrance Library, 10:30am to 11:30am

Saturday, Mar 18 Crawfish Stew, Lakes Hotel, the Entrance, 8:30pm

Community Hall, Cnr Wyee Rd and Hue Hue Rd, Wyee, 10:30am to 3:00pm Stormcellar, Coast Hotel Budgewoi, 3:00pm

Saturday, Apr 1 Diary of a Wombat, The Art House, Wyong, 2:00pm for ages three plus

Sunday, Apr 2 Thursday, Mar 16

Thursday, Mar 23

An evening with Suzi Samuel, Bateau Bay Square, 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Missing Chapter Book Club, Lake Haven Shopping Centre, 4:00pm to 5:00pm

Friday, Mar 17

Saturday, Mar 25

The Vicar of Dibley by Coast Theatre Company (Wyong Drama Group), the Art House, Wyong with Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances until March 25 Ben Woodham,

Harmony Day, Memorial Park, The Entrance, 5:00pm to 9:00pm

Sunday, Mar 26 Rose Growing Workshop by the Rose Society of NSW, Wyee

Happy Festival, free concert for veterans, seniors, families and volunteer groups who’ve suffered the effects of PTSD, depression or suicide, Doyalson RSL, 1:00pm to 5:00pm Central Coast BrickFest a lego event, Wyong Race Club, 10:00am to 4:00pm Wyong community Family Fair, Wyong Christian Community School, Alison Rd, Wyong, 1:00pm-6:00pm

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.

ember for Wyong, Mr David Harris, has confirmed his nominee for the Wyong local woman of the year as Ms Danielle Habib of Chittaway Point.

Ms Habib has been active in community organisations including White Ribbon, the Central Coast Domestic Violence Committee and the Central Coast Women’s Health Centre. She has sat on Wyong Council’s multicultural advisory committee and volunteers to assist migrants and refugees in

settling into communities. “Danielle is a thoroughly impressive woman, not many people can say they dedicate so much to people who have so little,” Mr Harris said. “Danielle is a wellknown Central Coast identity who doesn’t seek recognition for the important work she does. “This nomination is a chance to say “thank you” on behalf of the Wyong and wider Central Coast community.” Ms Habib said she was humbled to have been chosen for the award. “There are so many deserving women in our

community that give their time and energy tirelessly to so many worthwhile issues,” Ms Habib said. “It is important that we all stand up against violence in our community and see that through the use of sexist jokes and language, and the objectification of women, that it leads to a culture of violence against women. “As a community we can challenge these values and be a part of the changing attitudes towards women.” Media release, Feb 28, 2017 Zachary Harrison, office of David Harris

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Page 20 March 14, 2017

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Classifieds advertising rates - in print and on-line Classified advertising is the cheapest form of newspaper advertising. This newspaper is published on line on the night before publication date, and is read that way by hundreds of people. All advertisements, including these classified advertising pages, appear in full on-line as an additional benefit for free. See www.CentralCoastNewspapers.com www.CentralCoastNews.net

• Residential and Commercial • Interior and Exterior • New Work and Repaints Free Quotes All work guaranteed Quality’s my game and Ryan’s my name

Non Business and Not For Profit Organisations As Central Coast Newspapers are community newspapers, the cost of advertising not for profit organisations’ events is subsidised. This makes them the same rate as non business advertisements. A mono 5cm advertisement only costs $33. Each additional cm costs $6.60 as does colour, and/or a photograph or a logo. Private advertisements need to be paid for at the time of booking.

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Having an advertisement run for 3 months only costs $215 + GST, for 6 months it is $385 + GST, and for 12 months advertising, the total cost is only $700 + GST – Approximately $14 per week. Artwork is free and advertisers are encouraged to change their advertisements frequently

To advertise here call us on 4325 7369

Business rates The minimum size of 5cm X a single column only costs $40 + GST in mono and an extra $8 + GST for colour, a logo or a photograph, every two weeks. Most businesses choose to advertise on an ongoing basis and discounts apply for multiple bookings, if they are paid for in full, in advance.

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Central Coast Newspapers’ advertising rates are relatively much lower than in other newspapers and at the same time much larger than in other newspapers, with the minimum size being 50mm X 42mm. Approximately 16,000 copies of each newspaper are printed and distributed every fortnight.

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

Page 21 March 14, 2017

SPORT

Unlucky 13th loss for Mariners but not disgraced Ivan Necevski pulling off a one on one save against Bobo

he Central Coast Mariners have suffered their 13th loss of the season, this time to Sydney FC, thanks to an early goal from Filip Holosko in the eigth minute.

The Mariners were hoping to start off strong, but were dealt a blow early in the first half, when a pinpoint cross from Sydney FC left back, Michael Zullo, found its way to Holosko, who was able to volley the ball in from close range. Mariners’ Coach, Mr Paul Okon, showed his dissatisfaction of the condition of the pitch. “I think if you’re going to deliver a pitch like that, you’ve got bigger problems; that was embarrassing, I don’t think the game should have been held to be honest,” Mr Okon said. “I don’t think there was too much football played through the centre half of

the pitch,” he said. The Mariners were outclassed by the league leaders and struggled to register an attacking threat, with Kwabena Appia coming the closest on the night, after seeing his tame effort land straight to the gloves of Sydney keeper, Danny Vukovic. Ivan Necevski was hoping to cement his place as first choice goalkeeper after Paul Izzo was suspended after last week’s red card, and gave Paul Okon a welcomed selection headache, putting in a man of the match performance, as he kept the Mariners in the game, pulling off a variety of saves to keep the deficit at 1 to 0. Necevski was able to pull off a stunning one on one save to deny Sydney FC striker Bobo, thanks to the quick reflexes of the Former Sydney FC veteran goalkeeper. Sydney FC midfielder, Brandon O Neil, was hoping to increase the

The Shame File CENTRAL COAST NEWSPAPERS 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

Sky Blues’ lead after his team were awarded a free kick in front of goals. However, O’Neil’s curling free kick effort was saved by the outstretched arm of Necevski. Things didn’t go too well for the Mariners, and they only seemed to get worse when Liam Rose brought down former Mariner, Bernie Ibini, and received a yellow card and Sydney were awarded a penalty. Bernie Ibini stepped up to take the penalty, however Ivan Necevski was able to save the shot, after Ibini’s timid shot was guessed correctly by the Mariners’ Goalkeeper. Mr Okon praised his side’s valiant effort against the potential premiers, and praised Sydney FC’s defensive structure. “Sydney is the best structured team when they don’t have the ball. “It was always going to be difficult to make our

way forward” The loss sees the Mariners sit at ninth place, with 20 points on the table. “In the off season, we will assess our year and make the necessary decision where we believe we will strengthen.” “I said at the start that every player at the club will be given an opportunity. “We have a number (12) of players off contract and in the coming weeks we’ll look at what needs to be done. “I can guarantee we will be better next season, we will definitely be more competitive which is the minimum for us, said Mr Okon. Match notes, 10 Mar, 2017 Central Coast vs Sydney FC Press Conference, 10 Mar, 2017 Paul Okon Journalist, Satria DyerDarmawan

Let your community know about: • Weddings • Engagements • Special Birthdays • Special Anniversaries • New Born Babies • Special Achievements

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. James • Golden Scissors • Thomas Hairdressing, Wyong Clinton, Trading as TMA Products & • Bakefresh, Wyong AthroBalm & Effective • Frazer Park Pty Ltd Business Solutions of formerly trading as The Ettalong

Big Prawn at Crangan • Lee Critchley of Lake Bay Munmorah, currently • David Hill, Long Jetty trading at Lakehaven • Jessica Davis of Erina Shopping Centre - trading as A1 cleaning • Judy Callender, Phyllus Up Takeaway - San services Remo NSW • Rattananporn Massage, Wyong • Darren Rucker, Tiler Killarney Vale

Send us a photo and information Details on page 2 - 4325 7369

Community newspaper advertising vs online only advertising It seems like it’s almost every month that we hear about the death of an advertising medium. Over the years, we’ve all heard about the death of print, the death of radio, the death of traditional advertising in general. Of course it’s not true, but it can make it harder for businesses who might be thinking of turning to online advertising instead, to know what’s the most effective. Figures suggest that the most effective advertising campaigns are multi-channel, mixing social, paid search and traditional advertising to build awareness and generate leads and sales. The challenge comes when an advertiser has a limited budget and has to choose where to focus. Following are some facts and figures that can help advertisers understand the benefits of community newspaper advertising and what it could do for their business. • Research by Future Foundation for FEPE International found that 22% find press advertising ‘most trustworthy’ and just 3% find online advertising ‘most trustworthy’, so if advertisers want to build trust, then newspaper advertising is likely to be the best approach. • Research by Nielsen showed that consumers ranked print newspapers as an effective advertising source, and figures from Newsworks showed that 70% of people who read press ads said they would like to find out more. • Newspaper advertising was seen as being oldfashioned, but that’s changing. With the rise of online and tablet versions of newspapers running stories in print and online, newspaper advertising is embracing technology. It seems these new formats keep the same high level of engagement too. Research by GfK showed that tablet versions of ads had the same level of recall as print adverts. • We all know that there’s more and more content available online as time goes by. The rise of social media, content marketing and online advertising mean that there’s now more noise to cut through to get your message across. The situation doesn’t look set to improve either. Research from the eMarketer shows that digital ad spend was up 15% last year. That translates as more ads and more competition, or more expensive advertising. Either way, small businesses can cut through this by looking to newspaper advertising instead. • Figures from eConsultancy show that clickthrough rates from online ads is falling – from 9% in 2000 to just 0.2% in 2012. That means that online ads are becoming less effective for those businesses to generate leads or sales. The situation is unlikely to improve. The launch of iOS 9 came with a flurry of attention, as it now supports content blockers. That means users can choose to block online adverts, which includes paid search ads. That’s likely to have a big impact on the effectiveness of online ads. So if businesses want to ensure they reach their audience in a targeted area, community newspaper advertising is a good approach. • Central Coast Newspapers has been publishing community newspapers on the Central Coast for over 17 years, having started with Peninsula News in March, 1999. During that period, the focus on specific areas covered by each newspaper, the independent, balanced reporting style and the standard of journalism has built a huge loyal readership throughout the Coast. The 100,000 copies distributed each month are eagerly sought after. Advertisers have also seen the importance of this loyal readership and the high penetration to their target market and have chosen to associate themselves with it. Many advertise nowhere else and rely on the papers for their ongoing business.

If you have a business on the Coast and want to reach more customers, call 4325 7369 to see how inexpensive it is.

SPORT Page 22

March 14, 2017

he proposed CASAR Park c o m m u n i t y dedicated motor sport and recreation facility continues to make progress in gaining all the development approvals and signoffs on the way to building the facility.

PARKING

CASAR Park construction Academy could begin in early 2018 coaches are T also NSW state team coaches SHOWGROUND/ SPEEDWAY

MAIN RACETRACK

PITS

“While the speed of the process may not be at a pace that motor sport enthusiasts would like, the wheels do continue to turn behind the scenes at CASAR Park,” said CASAR CEO, Mr Brad Wilson. He said development application studies were continuing and the group had presented at the Investing for Good conference hosted by the NSW Council of Social Service. “As long-time supporters know, the evolution of the project has also coincided with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment’s drafting of the Central Coast Regional Plan,” Mr Wilson said. “While initially creating some mixed messages

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regarding ecology matters in the Bushell’s Ridge area, the release of the final report in October, 2016, has locked in the CASAR precinct as an employment zone,” he said. “With that uncertainty resolved, CASAR has commenced a new round of ecological studies which kicked off in November, 2016, and they will continue through to October, 2017. “We’re excited about finally getting a new national-standard motor sport facility in NSW, but we’re also a community organisation and we want

Tide CharT FORT DENISON

LAT 33° 51’ S - LONG 151° 14’ E - TIME ZONE - 1000 Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters Add one hour to the times below when Daylight Saving is in force

Time - Height(m) 0454 0.44 0414 0.41 1102 1.59 1026 1.67 TUE 1638 0.38 WED 1709 0.44 2324 1.59 2249 1.60 0615 0.54 0036 1.54 1216 1.41 0700 0.59 FRI 1812 0.56 SAT 1257 1.33 1847 0.63 0208 1.46 0309 1.43 0852 0.68 1001 0.68 MON 1445 1.19 TUE 1558 1.17 2029 0.75 2139 0.77 0522 1.49 0617 1.56 1208 0.58 1256 0.50 THU 1813 1.27 FRI 1900 1.36 2353 0.69 0131 0.50 0216 0.41 0748 1.72 0832 1.78 SUN 1415 0.34 MON 1454 0.28 2021 1.57 2102 1.67

0533 0.49 1139 1.50 THU 1739 0.50 2359 1.57 0118 1.50 0751 0.64 SUN 1345 1.25 1931 0.69 0417 1.44 1111 0.65 WED 1713 1.20 2251 0.75 0045 0.60 0704 1.65 SAT 1337 0.41 1942 1.47 0302 0.33 0916 1.80 TUE 1533 0.25 2144 1.76

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

to make sure that we’re setting the best example for how to create jobs whilst respecting, preserving and even improving the natural environment around us. “Knowing that we’ll be able to work through our ecological matters, we continue to develop our community partnerships, most recently with the Ability Links program. “Working with local Central Coast staff, we’ll be delivering best practice in venue design and operating policies to ensure an inclusive and accessible precinct for all forms of disability,” Wilson added. On the fundraising front, CASAR’s potential for significant social impact saw Mr Wilson invited to present at the recent NCOSS Investing for Good conference in Sydney. “With social impact investment holding incredible potential for the facility, it was encouraging to be the only social enterprise

invited to pitch at the event. “With the long term 12 month ecological study due to be completed in just over six months, it will mean that the DA for the facility should be completed soon after this, with the expectation that construction could begin sometime in early 2018.” He said a computer generated track simulation can be accessed on YouTube. Media release, Mar 8, 2017 Brad Wilson, CASAR Park

oaches from the Central Coast Academy of Sport (CCAS) have been appointed to lead three NSW state basketball teams. Tim Hudson, Matt Johnston and Will Granger are the current head coaches for the NSW U20s, U18s and U16s respectively. Mark Tipple, the CCAS Program and Communications Coordinator, said it was the first time that three state teams had been headed by their staff. “It’s a great reflection on the standard of our coaches,” Mr Tipple said. The three coaches

WAR MEMORABILIA WANTED

have a busy year ahead of them. Matt Johnston’s U18s are set to play in the National Championships in Bendigo in April, while Will Granger’s U16s have Nationals in July. In February, Tim Hudson’s U20s kicked off their year winning a silver medal at their National Championship in Bendigo. Mr Hudson said: “It was a tremendous experience with a great group of men. “I’m super proud of the boys.” Media release, Mar 3, 2017 Mark Tipple, Central Coast Academy of Sport

Page 23 March 14, 2017

SPORT

Young Roosters still perched at top of ladder

Second rower Oliver Clements looks to offload against the Bulldogs Winger, Tamani McInnes Cama, flies high for the Roosters Photos: Andrew Stark

he Central Coast R o o s t e r s ’ Matthews Cup team have extended their winning streak to four following an impressive 16 points to 6 victory over Canterbury at the Morry Breen Field, Kanwal, on March 12.

Led by powerful performances up the middle from Ryan Jones and Brae Verheyen, the Roosters managed to ground out a six point advantage by halftime against the physically imposing Bulldogs. A Canterbury mistake early in the second half Ball Cup skipper Elih Jackson runs into the Canterbury defence

gifted the Coast a fresh attacking set, and the Coast’s Verheyen, duly crashed over the try line to push the advantage out to ten. A spectacular leap and catch from left centre, Corey Fenning, with 12 minutes remaining, resulted in the Roosters third try, sealing a hardfought victory. The Shane Whitton coached team continue to sit perched at the top of the competition ladder alongside other undefeated sides from Newcastle and Cronulla. The Coast’s SG Ball Cup team could not replicate the feat of their younger counterparts as they ran headlong into an

athletic set of Bulldogs and a 30 to 12 defeat. An Elih Jackson try four minutes before halftime had the home team back within striking distance on the scoreboard, however, a hat-trick of second half tries to Canterbury’s right winger, Kytak Chan, ensured that the blue and whites would enjoy a cheery coach trip home to Belmore. The Central Coast teams travel to Seiffert Oval, Queanbeyan, to take on the Canberra Raiders in the next round of matches to be played on Saturday March 18. Media release, Mar 12, 2017 Andrew Stark, Gosford Kariong Storm RLFC

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Children’s Dentistry

A whiter brighter Smile in one hour

PHILIPS Zoom White speed in chair teeth whitening special - only $595 (normally $950) We Bulk Bill Under the New Medicare Child Dentals Benefit Scheme. NO OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE ($1,000 Free Dental Care for children age 2 to 17 - Ask us for the Details)

Interest FREE Payment Plans Available

• single tooth replacement • full mouth rehabilitation over 4-6 implants • implant supported dentures

Laser Dentistry

We provide reasons to smile

Dr. Meena Gambhir

Dr. Namita Mehta

Dr. Aditi Khamar

Dr. Jash Dhillon

Gosford Bondi

PORCELAIN VENEERS

FREE CONSULTATION

INVISALIGN

Saturday Appointments Available - We accept Veteran’s Affairs patients Shop 1, 201 Mann Street, Opposite Gosford Train Station, Gosford 2250 gosford@dentallifeline.com.au | www.dentallifeline.com.au