Peninsula News 383 by Mark Snell, Peninsula News editor

Peninsula Community Access Edition 383

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21 December 2015

Gosford and Wyong to merge The Peninsula is about to become part of a local government area double the size of the current Gosford City Council following an announcement by the NSW Government of its proposal to go ahead with the merger of councils throughout the state. NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird and minister for local government, Mr Paul Toole announced their proposal on Friday, December 18 to merge Gosford and Wyong Councils in order to create one of 15 new councils in the “Sydney region”. The announcement has been described as a “dark day for democracy” and one that will “set a number of communities on the warpath with the Baird Government,” by Local Government NSW president, Mr Keith Rhodes. “This bully-boy farce is about removing genuine local representation, and completely ignoring the expressed wishes of local communities,” Mr Rhodes said. “It’s a cruel joke, and unfortunately the joke is on the people of NSW, because they are the ones likely to lose any meaningful input on the issues that impact on their day-to-day lives.” Mr Baird and Mr Toole promised improved infrastructure and services and stabilised rates would make ratepayers the big winners under the proposal. They said the community would have the opportunity to have a say on the NSW Government’s vision for local government in NSW. The new, as yet unnamed, Gosford and Wyong council was included in ‘Greater Sydney’, where the government is proposing to create the 15 new councils “to help the city [Sydney] grow, which would bring the total number of metropolitan councils down from 43 to 25. “Fewer councils will mean a big reduction in red tape for the NSW community and the businesses that work with councils,” Mr Baird said. Mr Toole said under the proposal there will be no change to merged council’s existing rate paths for four years.

The NSW Government’s proposed Sydney region council mergers with Gosford and Wyong in blue

“This package provides ratepayers with certainty,” Mr Toole said. Mr Toole said each proposal was the result of careful consideration of all the evidence, including four years of consultation with every council in NSW, independent assessments, merger preferences submitted by councils, and feedback from communities and stakeholders. “There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, and we have recognised that each community area in NSW is unique,” said Mr Toole. “Through the Stronger Communities Fund, every new council that is established will be provided with up to $15 million to invest in community infrastructure,” Mr Baird said. “Each new council will receive funding of up to $10 million to ensure ratepayers do not bear the upfront costs of merging.” New councils will decide how to spend their Stronger Communities Fund allocation, which could include projects such as pool refurbishments, new sporting facilities, street beautification projects, car park expansions and library upgrades. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie

McKinna said he and council staff learned of the proposal via a live webcast with the premier and local government minister at 9:30am on Friday, December 18. Cr McKinna said he was expecting the announcement to have “a bit more meat” but was waiting to receive a more detailed document from the government. He said the local councils who were part of the webcast had been informed that the next local government election would be put back from September 2016 to March 2017. “Now we have to use that extra time to make sure the outcome is good for the community,” Cr McKinna said. “The one good thing is that it confirmed there will be a rate freeze for four years,” he said. However, Cr McKinna said he believed the process of combining the two Central Coast councils to form the new local government would be much more expensive than the $10 million provided by the state government to assist with costs. “I don’t know what the total amount is going to be but it is going to be far far more than that.” Cr McKinna said both councils

would have to draw on their surpluses and be “Scottish with their money” to cover the expense of amalgamation. However, he said he did not believe any associated cost cuts would have a negative impact on services. “We have been told that both council’s budgets and operational plans would run through until 2017, so it is business as usual. “Senior managers from both councils have been having regular meetings to sort out how it is going to happen and that will keep going now,” he said. Cr McKinna said he had heard rumours about NSW Government plans to sack councils or appoint panels to oversee mergers but was confident the two Coast councils would remain in place until the amalgamation was finalized and new council elections held. The NSW Government is using the existing process set out in the Local Government Act to consider council mergers. “Our process will provide an objective assessment of the merger benefits and impacts, and give the community a chance to have a say before a final decision is made,” Mr Toole said. Detailed merger proposals are now being finalised and will be referred to the Chief Executive of the Office of Local Government (OLG) for examination and report under the existing process set out in the Local Government Act. The Chief Executive will appoint qualified delegates, who will commence a public consultation process for all 35 proposals, including public hearings. Following this stage, final proposals will be referred to the Boundaries Commission for comment. Mr Toole commended councils for their leadership in submitting merger preferences to Government and for recognising the significant benefits mergers will bring to their communities. The public consultation process will commence in January, once detailed proposals are made available at www. councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov. au. A factsheet is also available to download. Both Gosford mayor, Cr

McKinna and shadow minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris said local residents should make submissions and let the state government know their views on amalgamation during the consultation process. Cr McKinna said he believed public consultations should have been held prior to the decision being made to go ahead with mergers but at least now those residents who were concerned about the lack of consultation could have their say. Mr Harris slammed Mr Baird and Mr Toole’s announcement as “undemocratic”. Mr. Harris said Mr Baird had disregarded community input and pushed forward with his Local Government reforms just before Christmas, trying to avoid serious scrutiny. “This decision will affect local residents, sporting and community organisations and above all hundreds of jobs without any real consultation,” Mr Harris said. “The government should be addressing the massive cost shifting from State and Federal Government to local ratepayers instead of its dubious policy of amalgamation,” he said. “Mike Baird has ignored the wishes of a majority of Central Coast residents and councillors. “The whole Fit for the Future process has been a multi-million dollar farce - it was a done deal from the start; “61 per cent of Central Coast residents with 59 per cent of small businesses strongly opposed amalgamations, yet this government claims to have a mandate. “Community voices were forced silent under Mike Baird and instead it was left to the politicians - there must be a Citizens Panel to ensure complete transparency and Community input into any new Council structure moving forward. “I strongly encourage people to write to the Boundary Commission delegate expressing their views about amalgamation. “They should indicate whether they support it or not.” Media releases, 18 Dec 2015 Mike Baird, NSW Premier Jake Allen, office of David Harris Keith Rhodes, LG NSW Interview, 18 Dec 2015 Lawrie McKinna, Gosford Council Reporter: Jackie Pearson

THIS ISSUE contains 54 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Community Access

Dry month in a wet year

eninsula News is a fortnightly community newspaper owned by Woy Woy Community Media Association Inc., an incorporated, non-profit association.

Its aims include providing a viable, non-partisan news medium and forum exclusively for the Peninsula and developing a sense of community on the Peninsula. See www.peninsulanews.info for all editions published

So far December has been a dry month in a wet year.

Editor: Mark Snell Commercial Operator: Cec Bucello for Central Coast Newspapers Journalist: Jackie Pearson Assistant Journalists: Dilon Luke, Thom Birch, Blake Camilleri, Jasmine Gearie, Victoria Power Graphic Design: Justin Stanley Sales: Val Bridge

Only one fifth of the average December rainfall has been recorded on the Peninsula as of last Friday, December 18. A total of 17.2mm has been recorded this month by Mr Jim Morrison of Woy Woy, 81.1 per cent less than the monthly average of 91mm. Nevertheless, the total for the year stood at 1477.4mm, 18.3 per cent more than the average annual rainfall of 1249mm. Spreadsheet, 18 Dec 2015 Jim Morrison, Woy Woy

Declaration of interests Honorary editor: Mark Snell Owner and managing director, Open Windows Consulting Pty Ltd Vice-President, Australian Conservation Foundation Central Coast branch

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Councillors bullied into amalgamation vote even out of 10 Gosford councillors have voted to inform the NSW Government they are willing to amalgamate with Wyong Council.

The NSW Government has required all NSW councils deemed “unfit” to stand alone to make 50-word submissions by November 18 outlining their amalgamation preferences. Gosford’s deputy mayor, Cr Craig Doyle moved that “… based on its understanding that continuing as a stand-alone Council is not acceptable to the NSW Government… Council’s first preference is that Gosford City Council voluntarily merges with Wyong Shire Council.” Cr Doyle went on to give Gosford’s second preference, which was for Gosford City Council to merge with the southern part of Wyong Council up to Sparks Rd and for the remaining northern part of Wyong Shire Council to merge with Lake Macquarie City Council. “I find it hard to believe that we haven’t been provided a choice as councillors,” Cr Doyle said in opening discussion on the proposed motion. “As a working party, we took the opportunity to meet with the minister to express our fears, and I must say, they were met with respect and concern,” he said. Cr Doyle said a meeting with the local government minister, Mr Paul Toole did allay his fears about having no say in the process “a little”. “I say a little, because I

From left: Cr Jim McFadyen, Cr Gabby Bowles, deputy mayor Cr Craig Doyle and Cr Jeff Strickson debate the future of Gosford Council

still have some concerns that a voluntary forced amalgamation is our ﬁrst choice,” he said. He said Wyong’s early move, by a margin of one vote, in favour of the formation of a Greater Central Coast Regional Council through a merger with Gosford, stymied the debate about options available to Gosford. “I really think we have been bullied and coerced

into a corner from which there is no recovery,” he said. Cr Hillary Morris said she would not vote in favour of the amalgamation. “I ﬁnd it incomprehensible that we have been told to amalgamate or else,” Cr Morris said, citing the fact that IPART had found Gosford to be ﬁnancially sustainable. “What happens if we stand alone?” she asked.

“I don’t agree that we don’t have a choice; we are denying our residents the right to a voice.” Cr Morris outlined the legislative process that would need to be followed if Gosford did elect to defy the minister’s advice and state a preference to stand alone. She questioned whether the $10 million funding promised to councils who volunteered to amalgamate

plus $10 million for infrastructure would come near to covering the costs of amalgamation. “In our submission we talked about ﬁgures of $37 million and $31 million, that leaves a shortfall of $48 million. “Where will it come from, the sale of assets, the sale of public land, a special rate variation? “I will refuse to succumb to the bullying of the state government for

a paltry $20m,” she said. Cr Gabby Bowles added: “It really does feel like we have been backed into a corner on this one. “I would ordinarily be putting up one hell of a fight but the State Government has been very clever and would not be heading into this situation if they were not confident of the outcome,” Cr Bowles said. “While amalgamation would not be my preferred situation under ordinary circumstances, I believe what we are facing now are exceedingly extraordinary circumstances.” Cr Bowles said she would support the motion on the basis that it meant Gosford’s elected representatives would remain in their roles until the September 2016 election. “I believe it is imperative our community has a voice throughout the process... Gosford’s assets, infrastructure and staff, we can’t fight for them if we are not here,” she said. Cr Jeff Strickson said the benefits of amalgamation could be as much as $196 million over 20 years and that was “too much to gamble”. Who is going to pick up the shortfall if we don’t amalgamate?” Cr Strickson asked. “I believe it is for the best intentions of the rate payers for the two councils that we do amalgamate and carry on so we can represent the people of the new area,” he said. Cr Bob Ward said he would support the motion because a single voice for the Central Coast would give the region strength on planning issues. Continued P3

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r Phil Walker, chair of Regional Development Australia Central Coast, has congratulated Gosford and Wyong Councils on their agreement to voluntarily merge as part of the NSW Government’s Fit for the Future reform process.

The seat of Robertson is currently held by Liberal MP Ms Lucy Wicks, who won it in 2013 from Labor’s Deborah O’Neill with a margin of three per cent. Former Member for Robertson Ms Belinda Neal lives in Woy Woy and has publicly announced she is running for pre-selection. Mr David Abrahams from Killcare has also announced his intention to stand for pre-selection. Pearl Beach resident Mr Van Davy has also announced he is running. Mr Davy said he did not belong to a local branch but was a member of the “central policy branch”. The non-Peninsula candidate is Ms Ann Charlton, who is a senior member of Senator Deborah O’Neill’s staff and lives in Wamberal. Mr Davy said he had been a member of the ALP for 50 years and wanted to represent the ALP because: “The ALP represents the best chance working Australians and their families have to achieve decent living standards and ‘people control’ over the shaping forces on society. “The Labor Party needs communicators who can engage with uncommitted voters, especially voters in Labor’s ‘lost’ heartland of centrist workers,” he said. “I do this well, as an educator who sketches the ‘big picture’ in ways that workers can understand,

Media statement, 17 Nov 2015 Van Davy, Pearl Beach Media statement, 20 Nov 2015 David Abrahams, Killcare Reporter: Jackie Pearson

“The decision to voluntarily merge will ensure that our community will now have an opportunity to have a say in how our new Central Coast Council will be formed and that the region will be able to access $20 million in support from the NSW Government, to assist offsetting a small portion of the total amalgamation costs that will occur,” Mr Walker said. “ R e g i o n a l Development Australia

osford and W y o n g Councils have agreed to an historic, voluntary merger as part of the NSW Government’s Fit for the Future reform package.

Gosford councillors vote for ‘voluntary forced’ merger Gosford councillors have voted in favour of “voluntarily” merging with Wyong Council, despite claiming they had been forced, bullied and coerced. Gosford’s deputy mayor Cr Craig Doyle said that his first preference was for a “voluntary” merger, but that “we haven’t been provided a choice”. “I still have some concerns that a voluntary forced amalgamation is our first choice,” he said. “I really think we have been bullied and coerced into a corner from which there is no recovery,” he said. Cr Hillary Morris said she would not vote in favour of the amalgamation. “I find it incomprehensible that we have been told to amalgamate or else,” Cr Morris said, citing the fact that IPART had found Gosford to be financially sustainable. Cr Gabby Bowles added: “It really does feel like we have been backed into a corner on this one.” But she said she would vote in favour of the merger. “I believe it is imperative our community has a voice throughout the process ... Gosford’s assets, infrastructure and staff, we can’t fight for them if we are not here,” she said. Cr Jeff Strickson said the

benefits of amalgamation could be as much as $196 million over 20 years and that was “too much to gamble”. Cr Bob Ward said he would support the motion because a single voice for the Central Coast would give the region strength on planning issues. Cr Deanna Bocking spoke briefly to thank the community for its support and passion along with the staff, CEO and fellow councillors. Cr Vicky Scott said: “I am not going to fall on my sword for peanuts”, comparing the $20 million funding on offer with the over $700 million turnover of the existing councils. Cr Jim McFadyen added: “I will not be supporting this motion or selling out the majority of the community or council staff.” Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna noted that during his three years on council its financial position had gone from an $8 million deficit to a $36 million surplus. “This council in my opinion is fit for the future, so I never thought we would have to worry about any amalgamation. “At the meeting last week, it was very clear they will force us which is wrong but looking at what is happening in Gosford, if

we do agree to amalgamation we can work with the Government to get the best outcome for the community.” The day after the Gosford Council vote, Dr Joseph Drew from the University of New England’s Centre for Local Government said NSW councils were being forced into amalgamations unlikely to benefit local communities on the basis of flawed methodology. Serious flaws in the methodology used by IPART to declare councils fit or unfit raised questions that were being ignored in the Government’s rush to amalgamations, Dr Drew said. “Why didn’t the Government or its independent experts at IPART see these obvious flaws which were pointed out on numerous occasions?” Dr Drew asked. “What will be the negative impacts on residents and ratepayers following decisions made on the basis of these flawed assumptions? Media release, 18 Nov 2015 Paul Anderson, Gosford and Wyong Councils Media release, Nov 17, 2015 Dr Joseph Drew: University of New England Gosford Council meeting 17 Nov 2015 Reporter: Jackie Pearson •More stories on Council merger page 8 and 9

THIS ISSUE contains 77 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Ofﬁce: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Both Councils submitted their merger preference to the NSW Government before the November 18 deadline – with it likely that a Central Coast council could be proclaimed late December and come into effect early next year. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna said the agreement was a deﬁning moment in the Central Coast’s history. “Although time was against us, I’m very pleased with how both Councils have worked hard to protect the interests of their communities and the Central Coast,” Cr McKinna said. “I’m conﬁdent that this monumental decision to voluntarily merge means that the community’s voice will not be lost, which is something the NSW Government couldn’t guarantee under a potential forced amalgamation. “We’ll also have access to $20 million in support from the NSW Government for the voluntary merger that will make sure funding from our recent operating surpluses is not diverted away from vital service, facility and infrastructure improvements.

“There’s no doubt that merging our two organisations will be challenging, but my fellow Gosford councillors and I are looking forward to working alongside our Wyong counterparts to achieve the best outcome for the residents of the Central Coast,” he said. Wyong’s deputy mayor, Cr Lynne Webster, said she was pleased Gosford Council was coming to the party and agreed voluntary amalgamation is the only way to go. “The only way now is forward. “We have to work together to ensure a Central Coast Council continues to deliver the best possible services our community need and want. “I believe we can do it and this decision means we have secured a much needed $20 million injection of funding for our

region. “This decision will put the Central Coast on the map as a region in its own right and I believe will ensure we get a lot more funding and recognition in the future.” Gosford’s CEO, Mr Paul Anderson and Wyong’s acting CEO, Mr Rob Noble will now meet to create a staff transition team and start on plans to amalgamate the two Councils. An informal meeting of the two councils will be held at Wyong Council chambers on Wednesday, December 4, which will be the ﬁrst time the two councils have met since deciding on the merger.

Central Coast’s board members look forward to working with all sectors to ensure that the best outcomes are achieved for the entire Central Coast,” he said. “ R e g i o n a l Development Australia Central Coast is conﬁdent the decision to form the one united entity will allow the Central Coast to proactively brand and market itself as a desirable region to visit, live and invest, which in time will greatly assist in

addressing the region’s higher than average unemployment rate. “We look forward to assisting all levels of government, business and the community to proactively work together to deliver the vibrant and successful future that the Central Coast rightly deserves,” Mr Walker said. Media release, Nov 18, 2015 Elizabeth Westrup, Regional Development Australia Central Coast

Splitting Wyong Council in two is delusional ne of Wyong’s Save Tuggerah Lakes Party councillors, Cr Lloyd Taylor, has accused Lake Macquarie City Council of wanting to steel Wyong Council’s money.

He has been critical of moves by Lake Macquarie Council to see the Wyong Local Government Area cut in half at Sparks Rd and absorbed into Gosford to the South and Lake Macquarie to the north. “Lake Macquarie Council is trying to dispense with the Wyong Local Government Area by making a recommendation to the State Government to cut Media release, Nov 16, 2015 Wyong in two,” Cr Taylor Gosford and Wyong Council said. media “Neither Lake Meeting transcript, Nov 25, Macquarie Council 2015 Wyong Council general nor Gosford Council meeting have any idea how the Jackie Pearson, journalist community thinks and I

am sure our community would not agree with the idea of a “forced retreat” from the waterfront,” Cr Taylor said. “Lake Macquarie City Council is ‘planning for increased ﬂooding and changes to the foreshore lines that may occur as a result of sea level rise’,” he said. “They want to develop an adaptation plan which is double speak for no more development on land at Pelican or Blacksmiths. “If a ratepayer wants to build a new home, they won’t be permitted. “I had a phone call from a local in Wyong

concerned if we were amalgamated with Lake Macquarie that many waterfront properties would have restrictions imposed on them which would affect their 149 certificates. “I am against and idea that either Lake Macquarie or Gosford lay a finger on Wyong. “They only want Wyong because our finances are in order and want to steal money from our region,” he said.

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Issue 122 Edition 382

14 storey development approved for Mann St

Issue 82

$20 million government

Cr Vicky Scott spoke against merging with Wyong Council at Gosford Council's extraordinary general meeting

can relate to their lives, that cuts through the neo-con and Green propaganda that ‘there is no difference between the major parties’,” Mr Davy said. “I want to see more parliamentarians in Labor’s leadership structure who have less interest in career, factional power, number-crunching and branch-stacking and more interest in, and with more demonstrated skills in research; identification of national concerns and national opportunities; genuine data-based collaboration with the membership and specialists; formulations of appropriate responses to national concerns; policy-development, political education of the Australian public; forward strategic thinking,” he said. He has urged branch members who consider voting for him to make Ms Charlton their second choice. Belinda Neal won the seat of Robertson in 2007 in a tight race but lost pre-selection to Deborah O’Neill in 2010. Mr Abrahams said he is running to offer members a communitybased candidate who wants to push for local policies, particularly around innovation and youth employment. As lead advocate for the early NBN rollout and as Chair of Regional Development Australia Central Coast I’ve assisted in attracting significant investments to the region,” he said..

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Historic forced support is a small portion of amalgamation costs voluntary merger M agreed to

Three Labor candidates are from the Peninsula Three out of the four Labor Party candidates running for pre-selection for the Federal seat of Robertson are Peninsula residents.

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December 2, 2015 23 November 2015

m a j o r development worth around $17.6 million in the heart of Gosford’s city centre has been approved by Council.

The 14 storey mixed use development comprising a ground floor tavern, 75 residential units and basement car parking level will be built on the current Duttons Tavern site in Mann St. This development will maintain and upgrade the tavern that currently serves the surrounding area, provide new residential opportunities that support Gosford’s development as a regional city and is located close to public transport. The maximum height of the development complies with the Gosford Local Environment Plan but a minor variation in the floor space ratio has been approved. Allowances have also been made for car parking. The existing tavern does have some ground level parking at the rear in Paul Lane and there will be one level of basement car parking. Earlier plans for the development included a level of parking above the ground floor but issues of overshadowing Kibble Park meant the plans had to be revised so the development will only provide 33 parking spaces. Two podium levels will include 15 residential units. Floors three through to 12 will house another 54 residential units and there will be two penthouse apartments on the top floor. The proposal includes 24 one bedroom units, 47 two bedroom units and four three bedroom units. The tavern will be a redevelopment of the existing Duttons tavern and the hours of operation will

be in accordance with the liquor licence for the existing tavern. The owner of the site, Mr Bob Bourne addressed the council meeting before the development was approved. Mr Bourne said the ﬁrst development application he attempted to get approved through Gosford Council in the early 1970s took eight years to get accepted. Mr Bourne said, on this occasion, the professionalism of council staff had been “breathtaking”. Mr Bourne suggested that the nature of the new Mann St development went handin-hand with the rejuvenation of Gosford hospital and could provide future homes for hospital staff. The owner of the building that adjoins the development site spoke against the motion. He complained that a quantity surveyor’s report had not been released and questioned how he could make comment on the development without seeing its contents.

He was informed the report could not be made public because of copyright. He said he had owned the property adjoining the development since 1995. He said he had been contacted by a party representing Mr Bourne in 2013 to offer around $2 million to purchase his building and land. “I have had some discussions with Bob over the years and I told him some months before he lodged this development I was prepared to sign as consenting owner if he wanted to include my property, if he would pay costs of DA approval and it would be adjusted on sale to any purchaser. “He did not accept my letter and I can’t sell to someone who wants to buy my property for only a fraction of what it is worth.” A report to the council meeting referred to the potential of the neighbouring property, which is located between the Bourne development site and the Imperial Centre, to become “isolated”.

He complained that Gosford Council had not sent him information regarding the redevelopment prospects of his site. Deputy mayor, Cr Craig Doyle questioned whether or not council had addressed all concerns relating to the neighbouring property. Director for governance and planning, Ms Danielle Dixon said Council did have an obligation to look at the adjoining property and make sure this site has acceptable setback and that staff were comfortable the site could be developed and the setbacks were adequate. However, Ms Dixon said

it was unlikely the adjoining property would be developed to the same scale. “If you only have one site then you are constrained, which is why we gave preferences and additional incentives. “We think there is a possible development than can occur on that site but not to the same scale,’ Ms Dixon said. Most councillors who asked questions about the Bourne development were mainly concerned with the issue of available parking. Mr Bourne was allowed to substitute some parking spaces by undertaking to run a mini bus for the tavern. It was resolved that the proximity of the building to Gosford train station and bus routes meant that some units could be sold without an attached car space. Cr Gabby Bowles said parking was her main concern but concluded that she didn’t think it was a bad thing to have reduced parking spaces. “We should be pushing people to more sustainable and public transport,” Cr Bowles said. “I think this is a positive and unique opportunity because it is in the heart of our city and will accommodate people who don’t necessarily want their own car,” she said. “Tying parking spaces to properties in the strata plan

gives price points that we may not otherwise have in our city and it will improve the city,” she said. “We need people living in our city if we want it to thrive. “This is a really creative and positive outcome to encourage those who do not want to own a vehicle.” Cr Craig Doyle also spoke in support of the development’s approval. He said making single units available in the heart of Gosford would give young professionals a good entry point to the property market. “Wouldn’t it be great to have some young professionals in the centre of Gosford creating more demand,” he said. Mr Bourne told the meeting he was eager to progress the development to construction certiﬁcate stage as early as possible in 2016. Almost $460 million worth of development has now been approved for Gosford’s City Centre by Council and the Hunter and Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel. Meeting transcript, Nov 24, 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting Agenda item gov.155, Nov 24, 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting Jackie Pearson, journalist

STOP PRESS s we were going to press, the Federal Senate had voted resoundingly in favour of a motion by Sen Deborah O’Neill

calling on the Federal Government to abandon the decision to build an Australian Tax Ofﬁce on the Gosford waterfront.

was carried 37 to 28 and also called for consultation with the community for any future federal infrastructure investment for the Central Coast.

Senator O’Neill’s motion

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Former Member for Robertson Ms Belinda Neal may be the only remaining Peninsula candidate for Labor pre-selection for the Federal seat of Robertson. The nominations of two of three local candidates, reported in the last edition of Peninsula News, have faced administrative obstacles. Killcare resident Mr David Abraham has withdrawn his nomination after being informed it was invalid due to what he described as “a small administrative anomaly”. “In the interests of unity and clarity, I will now withdraw from the Robertson pre-selection race rather than appeal this matter,” he said. Pearl Beach candidate Mr Van Davy has acknowledged he was unable to furnish the names of five supporting members required for nomination. He said he had requested access to a database of local ALP members so he could canvass them for support. He said that he would lodge an appeal if his nomination was not accepted. Describing herself as a community activist and former Gosford councillor, Ms Neal said she was the only Labor candidate ever to have successfully won the seat of Robertson from a sitting Liberal Member. “I have been a resident of the Central Coast and the Peninsula for 30 years and have raised my family here and run a business here. “I love this community and our environment, but we are not getting our fair share from either Federal or State government.” “I am very aware of both the benefits and challenges of calling the Central Coast and the Peninsula home, and I want to stand up and fight for our fair share of funding and resources.” Ms Neal said she believed most observers expected that

Ms Belinda Neal

an overwhelming majority of Peninsula Labor Party members would support her in the preselection. Ms Neal said she had always been a strong advocate for the local community. She claimed to have secured more Federal funding for the Peninsula and Robertson overall during her time as Federal Member than the Liberals had done in the previous 10 years. “As the MP for Robertson, I ran a successful campaign for a Regional Cancer Treatment Centre at Gosford Hospital with a Federal Government grant $28.5 million and negotiated the support of the NSW Government for ongoing operational costs.” She said she had “obtained Federal funding for our schools and hospitals, commuter car parks and a new freight rail corridor to reduce delays and disruptions for commuters, obtained CCTV in the Woy Woy, Ettalong and Umina CBDs to counter antisocial behaviour and secured funding for massively-improved water infrastructure for the Peninsula”. She said she was “passionately committed to securing more training assistance and new Youth employment programs to give our young people better opportunities”. “Whatever your politics, you have to agree that what has happened to TAFE under successive NSW and Federal

governments is a disgrace,” she said “I will fight to make sure our young people have access to the skills and learning they need to succeed in the future. “I will not rest until we have restored an affordable, high-quality TAFE system and ended the farce of $100,000 uni degrees.” Nevertheless, Ms Neal said she was not resting only on her record: “Ï want to achieve new goals for the people of the Peninsula and obtain the best results for our community. “Working as an MP is all about achieving for the community,” Belinda said. “I have spoken with many Peninsula residents, about local issues, and I have gained new insights on how to further improve our health services, enhance education, secure better infrastructure and encourage local jobs.” Ms Neal said she had worked in close cooperation with many Peninsula and Gosford community partners over the years, including church-based charitable organisations, social welfare organisations, disability services, youth support groups, mental health support groups, women’s groups, parents and citizens organisations, unions and the union movement as a whole. She said she had “a great record in Council and as an MP of standing up for sustainability, meaningful action on climate change and conservation of our natural and built heritage”. She said she had the trust of the environmental movement on the Central Coast, including the Greens. “At the next election, Labor must attract Green preferences to have any chance of winning Robertson,” she said. Media release, 30 Nov 2015 Belinda Neal, Woy Woy Bay Email, 1 Dec 2015 Dave Abrahams, Killcare Interview, 1 Dec 2015 Van Davy, Pearl Beach

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21 December 2015

7 December 2015

Fire brigades to get station improvements

Belinda Neal may be only Peninsula candidate

Both Pearl Beach and the Bays Rural Fire Brigades have been permitted to submit development applications to undertake projects to improve their stations. Gosford Council has agreed to donate the services associated with the applications. The project to be undertaken to improve the Pearl Beach RFS facility will be the construction of an additional tanker bay with a new office and new meeting room. The current station comprises of two bays. One houses a Category 1 heavy tanker and the other a Category 12 personnel carrier. The station does not have a meeting/training room and lacks appropriate storage space. If the brigade was to accommodate a second tanker it could not be stored in the current bay. The rear of the Bays RFS Station will be extended to house a meeting room, office, kitchen, amenities, change and store room. The improvements will align the station to the RFS building standard. The kitchen and amenities at the station were in poor condition and below the required standard, according to a report from council staff. Detailed drawings for Pearl Beach and The Bays Stations were

not available but similar projects to be undertaken at Wamberal and Mangrove Mountain indicated that Council would donate around $5500 to $6000. It said the Gosford Rural Fire Service was responsible for all bush fires, structure fires, motor vehicle accidents and other fire related incidents. This also extended to bush fire mitigation, planning and public education. Gosford Council has had a long history of working in partnership with the Gosford Rural Fire Service, according to the report. Under the Act, Councils have the responsibility and funding obligations for the establishment of a Fire Control Centre, the establishment of Rural Fire Brigade Stations, the supply of ancillary vehicles, the maintenance and repair of the vehicles, the insurance of all vehicles, the maintenance and repair of all buildings dedicated to the RFS, the insurance of all buildings dedicated to the RFS; and the general costs associated with the running of the RFS. The report stated that the existing Rural Fire Brigade stations at Pearl Beach and The Bays were aged and had limitations that required upgrading to meet Rural Fire Service and local brigade needs for kitchen and amenities. Gosford Council agenda CON.40, 24 Nov 2015

Neal alleges defamation Labor preselection candidate for Robertson Ms Belinda Neal has alleged Peninsula News has defamed her in a front page article published last edition. Ms Neal claimed the article was inaccurate and untrue, defamatory and damaged her reputation. She said that whether or not Peninsula News had the intention or reason to damage her reputation that had been its effect. Peninsula News does not believe the article was defamatory, but apologises for any hurt or

embarrassment it may have caused her. As a gesture of goodwill, further distribution of Peninsula News was stopped when Ms Neal raised her complaint and material in the article was deleted from online editions. Apart from the media release used in the lead article on this page, and seeking an apology and retraction, Ms Neal has not submitted any corrections of fact for publication. Peninsula News, 4 Dec 2015 Mark Snell, editor

December 16, 2015

December 11, 2015

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he Joint Regional Planning Panel is expected to approve a $298 million staged mixed use development at 78 to 118 The Entrance Road when it meets at Wyong on Monday, December 14. Wyong Council agreed at its December 9 meeting to make a submission to the JRPP endorsing the development. At this stage, the applicant is seeking ‘concept approval only’ for the works to take place in three operational stages, with subsequent detailed development applications being lodged for each future stage. The development would include demolition of existing buildings and construction of a shopping centre with a supermarket, shop top housing, hotel accommodation, restaurant, multi-purpose function space, and ancillary parking and other works. Moving a motion for Wyong Council to endorse the development and make a submission to the JRPP in support of the developer, Cr Lloyd Taylor said: “We need to support the applicant on this particular one because

A photomontage of the proposed development within its surrounding coastal context

it is a huge commitment, a commitment that very few developers can make. “This is a $300 million project that will kick start the Central Coast and The Entrance,” Cr Taylor said. “This will really kick start investment in this tourist Mecca. “It will be the highest building on the Central Coast but that is a good thing. “It will hopefully kick start other sites and other areas. “We want businesses to succeed and grow and employ more people and this development is going to deliver.”

Cr Adam Troy seconded the motion and said: “It is not every day you get a $300 million development in council chambers, it is a milestone on the Central Coast. “It is going to be one of those focal points, a pretty special place and I can’t wait to see it happen,” he said. The site covers 21,357 square metres and takes in the existing Lakeside Plaza Shopping Centre and surrounding sites. According to a report prepared by Wyong Council staff for the consideration of councillors at their

December 9 meeting, the project is expected to generate 660 full time jobs, post construction. The proposal includes a retail podium and two towers and seeks variation to a number of Wyong Council’s planning controls. The site is identified as a ‘key site’ under Wyong LEP 2013 which allows for a bonus building height of 113.8 metres. The bonus building height is provided in return for “significant public benefits to be provided to the community and to stimulate further development and

viability of town centres,” according to the report. The proposed shop top housing would include 478 dwellings. The development would also encompass a 108 room hotel and parking for 1,433 cars. The podium would make available 13,250 square metres of lettable retail space fronting Dening St, Taylor St and The Entrance Rd. There are two levels of retail ﬂoor space along The Entrance Rd frontage and ground ﬂoor retail space along the Taylor St frontage containing a supermarket and a major

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retail tenancy. The proposal includes two levels of basement parking and rooftop parking (179 spaces) with shade sails above the podium. Above the retail space, facing The Entrance Rd, shop top housing is proposed, comprising 48 residential apartments over three storeys. Within the northern (Dening St) end of the building is a restaurant and function/convention space (at the hotel lobby level). The next level up would be a landscaped level (referred to as the oasis level) which is located directly below the tower buildings and would contain two pools, landscaping, day spa, decks and a bar. Above this level, the development proposes two towers with 250 residential apartments (27 storeys) within a residential tower located on the corner of The Entrance Rd and Dening St. One hundred hotel rooms (6 storeys) and 110 residential apartments (11 storeys) would be located within a second tower building located on the corner of Taylor St and Dening St.

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lmost $700 million worth of development has now been approved in Gosford’s city centre after the Hunter and Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel gave the green light for another landmark development. The Panel approved a $234 million mixed use development opposite the Gosford City Council Administration Building in Mann St. The Waterside development on the corner of Mann St, Georgiana Tce and Baker St includes three towers rising up to 33 storeys, an 80 room hotel, two cinemas and a tavern as well as 500 residential apartments, over 600 car parking spaces and other commercial and retail premises. Gosford mayor, Cr Lawrie McKinna, said the JRPP decision would cement Gosford’s position as the regional capital of the Central Coast. “This is the second, vital game changer the panel has approved for Gosford this year,” Cr McKinna said. “For too long the site opposite Council’s administration building that used to house the Froggy’s skating rink has sat dormant. “But now it’s ﬁnally set to be reactivated and play a deﬁning role in the social and economic revitalisation of our city’s centre by delivering another much needed tourist facility and iconic structure only a stone’s throw away from Gosford’s waterfront,” he

said. Council’s chief executive ofﬁcer, Mr Paul Anderson, said the community’s dream of a vibrant and bustling city centre in Gosford was fast becoming a reality. “Gosford’s importance as a regional city has been recognised by the NSW Government and unlocking its potential means embracing new opportunities for stimulus and growth like the panel and Council has over the past year. “Along with the almost $460 million worth of development already approved for the city centre, today’s decision is set to ﬁll Gosford’s skyline with even more cranes to build a world-class city here on the Central Coast. “I would also like to once again thank the Council staff who have worked tirelessly to review this development and provide very comprehensive reports to the panel,” Mr Anderson said. Council had recommended that the Hunter and Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel approve the development. Media release, Dec 4, 2015 Gosford Council media

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1 9?

10? Development Address Description 1. Waterside Cnr Mann St and Georgiana Tce Three towers, Commercial, residential, cinema, hotel, tavern 2. Mariners Plaza Cnr Mann St and Donnison St Two towers, 26 storeys and 28 storeys, retail, hotel, residential 3. Mixed use 27A to 37 Mann St & 125 Georgiana Tce 16 storeys, retail, commercial, restaurant and residential 4. Quantum Towers Henry Parry Drive Two towers residential 5. Retail and Shop Cnr Erina St and Henry Parry Dve 2 x residential towers, 15 storeys and 12 storeys Top Housing 6. Telstra-Transfield 12-23 Mann St 15 storeys, 140 residential flats 7. Commercial and 43-45 Beane St 20 storey shop top housing plus 4 storey residential flat building on Keevers residential Land 8. Mixed use Duttons Tavern Mann St 14 storeys, residential flats with ground floor tavern 9. ATO Cnr Mann St and Georgiana Tce Commercial building 10. Performing Arts Location to be confirmed 1,000 seat theatre with studio and other facilities Centre Source: Hunter and Central Coast JRPP website, development and planning register, Dec 15, 2015

$ Value $230 million $157 million $50 million $50 million $37 million $34 million $26 million $18 million $? $30 million

Continued P3

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Peninsula to become part of a larger Sydney Region Council after consultation The Peninsula is about to become part of a local government area double the size of the current Gosford City Council following an announcement by the NSW Government of its proposal to go ahead with the merger of councils throughout the state. NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird and minister for local government, Mr Paul Toole announced their proposal on Friday, December 18 to merge Gosford and Wyong Councils in order to create one of 15 new councils in the “Sydney region”. The announcement has been described as a “dark day for democracy” and one that will “set a number of communities on the warpath with the Baird Government,” by Local Government NSW president, Mr Keith Rhodes. “This bully-boy farce is about removing genuine local representation, and completely ignoring the expressed wishes of local communities,” Mr Rhodes said. “It’s a cruel joke, and unfortunately the joke is on the people of NSW, because they are the ones likely to lose any meaningful input on the issues that impact on their day-to-day lives.” Mr Baird and Mr Toole promised improved infrastructure and services and stabilised rates would make ratepayers the big winners under the proposal. They said the community would have the opportunity to have a say on the NSW Government’s vision for local government in NSW. The new, as yet unnamed, Gosford and Wyong council was included in ‘Greater Sydney’, where the government is proposing to create the 15 new councils “to help the city [Sydney] grow, which would bring the total number of metropolitan councils down from 43 to 25. “Fewer councils will mean a big reduction in red tape for the NSW community and the businesses that work with councils,” Mr Baird said. Mr Toole said under the proposal there will be no change to merged council’s existing rate paths for four years.

learned of the proposal via a live webcast with the premier and local government minister at 9:30am on Friday, December 18. Cr McKinna said he was expecting the announcement to have “a bit more meat” but was waiting to receive a more detailed document from the government. He said the local councils who were part of the webcast had been informed that the next local government election would be put back from September 2016 to March 2017. “Now we have to use that extra time to make sure the outcome is good for the community,” Cr McKinna said. “The one good thing is that it confirmed there will be a rate freeze for four years,” he said. However, Cr McKinna said he believed the process of combining the two Central Coast councils to form the new local government would be much more expensive than the $10 million provided by the state government to assist with costs. “I don’t know what the total amount is going to be but it is going to be far far more than that.” Cr McKinna said both councils would have to draw on their surpluses and be “Scottish with

their money” to cover the expense of amalgamation. However, he said he did not believe any associated cost cuts would have a negative impact on services. “We have been told that both council’s budgets and operational plans would run through until 2017, so it is business as usual. “Senior managers from both councils have been having regular meetings to sort out how it is going to happen and that will keep going now,” he said. Cr McKinna said he had heard rumours about NSW Government plans to sack councils or appoint panels to oversee mergers but was confident the two Coast councils would remain in place until the amalgamation was finalized and new council elections held. The NSW Government is using the existing process set out in the Local Government Act to consider council mergers. “Our process will provide an objective assessment of the merger benefits and impacts, and give the community a chance to have a say before a final decision is made,” Mr Toole said. Detailed merger proposals are now being finalised and will be referred to the Chief Executive of the Office of Local Government (OLG) for examination and report under the existing process set out in the Local Government Act. The Chief Executive will appoint qualified delegates, who will commence a public consultation process for all 35 proposals, including public hearings. Following this stage, final proposals will be referred to the Boundaries Commission for comment. Mr Toole commended councils for their leadership in submitting merger preferences to Government and for recognising the significant benefits mergers will bring to their communities. The public consultation process will commence in January, once detailed proposals are made available at www. councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov. au. A factsheet is also available to download. Both Gosford mayor, Cr McKinna and shadow minister for the Central Coast, Mr David

Harris said local residents should make submissions and let the state government know their views on amalgamation during the consultation process. Cr McKinna said he believed public consultations should have been held prior to the decision being made to go ahead with mergers but at least now those residents who were concerned about the lack of consultation could have their say. Mr Harris slammed Mr Baird and Mr Toole’s announcement as “undemocratic”. Mr. Harris said Mr Baird had disregarded community input and pushed forward with his Local Government reforms just before Christmas, trying to avoid serious scrutiny. “This decision will affect local residents, sporting and community organisations and above all hundreds of jobs without any real consultation,” Mr Harris said. “The government should be addressing the massive cost shifting from State and Federal Government to local ratepayers instead of its dubious policy of amalgamation,” he said. “Mike Baird has ignored the wishes of a majority of Central Coast residents and councillors. “The whole Fit for the Future process has been a multi-million dollar farce - it was a done deal from the start; “61 per cent of Central Coast residents with 59 per cent of small businesses strongly opposed amalgamations, yet this government claims to have a mandate. “Community voices were forced silent under Mike Baird and instead it was left to the politicians - there must be a Citizens Panel to ensure complete transparency and Community input into any new Council structure moving forward. “I strongly encourage people to write to the Boundary Commission delegate expressing their views about amalgamation. “They should indicate whether they support it or not.” Media releases, 18 Dec 2015 Mike Baird, NSW Premier Jake Allen, office of David Harris Keith Rhodes, LG NSW Interview, 18 Dec 2015 Lawrie McKinna, Gosford Council Reporter: Jackie Pearson

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Gosford Council adopts beaches management plan The Gosford Beaches Coastal Zone Management Plan has been adopted by Gosford Council at its December 8 general meeting The plan aims to ensure management and protection of the coastal zone. “The aim is to reduce the risk to property and development from coastal erosion processes and to protect core ecosystem and community uses of Gosford’s coastline and beaches,” a report to Council recommending the plan’s adoption said. The coastal zone study area extends from Patonga Beach and takes in the Peninsula’s beaches and coastal zone. It then stretches north to Forresters Beach. Management actions have been recommend for each beach in the Gosford LGA for the implementation period to 2025. The management actions were identified based on the specific coastal hazard risk at each beach, the values in each beach precinct, the effectiveness of the existing coastal management measures, and specific issues of importance identify by the local community. Each management action was assessed based on a broad cost

benefit analysis (CBA) across economic, environmental and social considerations. The scope did not require detailed socio-economic or environmental analysis for all identified options, according to the staff report. More rigorous analyses may be undertaken in the implementation process for large-scale individual actions, it stated. Management actions were further refined based on feedback received during the public exhibition. The report stated that some options were removed due to a clear community preference, such as the relocation of the car park in front of the Patonga Beach Hotel. One option added due to community feedback was to increase interpretative information signage at surf clubs. “The following beach-wide management actions have been recommended for development and implementation: Beaches Water Quality Improvement Plan; Coastal Zone Education Program; Coastal Erosion and Inundation Emergency Response Plan; Geotechnical database; and a Beach Nourishment Strategy. The plan was informed by the Coastal Zone Management Study

adopted in 2015 and the Coastal Processes and Hazard Definition Study adopted in 2014. These studies identified coastal hazards and assessed management options for current and future conditions. “The aim of the plan is to protect the beach environment, including public access and amenity, whilst managing coastal hazard risks to people and the environment. “A range of management actions are recommended and detailed with an implementation timeframe, key responsibilities, indicative costs and funding sources over a ten year implementation period to the year 2025.” The report stated that the plan complemented other Coastal Zone Management Plans prepared for the Lower Hawkesbury River Estuary (2009), Brisbane Water (2012), Pearl Beach Lagoon (2014) and Gosford’s Coastal Lagoons (2015). “Overall, these coastal, estuary and flood focussed plans provide the strategic policy framework for the ecological sustainable development of coastline areas currently affected by hazards and the protection of fragile coastal environments into the future. An Open Coast and Broken

Bay Beaches Coastal Zone Management Study that was endorsed by Gosford Council in May presented a series of management options for the beaches. “Options were selected through consideration of coastal hazards, community feedback, and the requirement to achieve a reasonable balance between conflicting uses of the coastal zone. “Council actively sought input from affected property owners and the wider community into the preferred management approaches. “The plan represents the third phase of the planning process. “The primary purpose of this Plan is to outline management actions to address priority issues in the coastal zone to be implemented by Gosford City Council, other public authorities and other landowners between 2015 and 2025. “The priority issues to be managed are: risks to public safety and built assets; pressures on coastal ecosystems; community uses of the coastal zone.” The plan was prepared in consultation with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage. An implementation schedule is detailed for each beach precinct in Gosford LGA and includes: a description of the

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hazard/issue being addressed; a list and description of all management actions for each beach; allocation of responsibility for each management action; timetable for implementation (short, medium, long term); proposed funding arrangements for all actions, including any private sector funding; and cost for implementation (longer term options have no cost allocation within the next 10 years). The costs allocated for each management action include the planning and design costs, construction costs, and maintenance and/or recurrent costs up to 2025. The report said that a number of Government funding mechanisms were available to support the implementation of actions and to assist in recovery following storm events. The costs of coastal management actions often exceeded Council’s fiscal capacity, and currently there was no clear approach to identify who should be expected to contribute to those costs, the report stated. The plan will now be submitted to the NSW Minister for Planning for certification. Gosford Council agenda GOV.187, 8 Dec 2015

Page 4 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

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Action to be reviewed with The Brisbane Water Foreshore Floodplain Risk Management Plan has been adopted by Gosford Council at its final meeting for 2015 on December 8. The meeting also resolved that Council review the key management actions recommended in the plan for implementation within the constraints of Council’s available resources as part of Councils integrated planning framework. According to a staff report prepared for the meeting, the plan provides a framework to direct and coordinate the future management of flood prone land Key outcomes of the process include the recommendation of a series of flood mitigation actions to address the current, future, and continuing with flood risk within and around Brisbane Water. “The plan has been informed by a thorough floodplain risk management process and was preceded by the Brisbane Water Foreshore Floodplain Risk Management Study, prepared by Cardno and adopted in April 2015, and the Brisbane Water Foreshore Flood Study, prepared by Cardno and adopted in 2013,” the report said. “The recommended management actions proposed in the plan should meet this objective whilst still considering longer term strategies to address impacts of climate change.” A draft plan was placed on public exhibition for six weeks from August 21 to October 2, 2015. “The draft

Photo: Marissa Clohesy Sand blown across The Esplanade at Ettalong following the April East Coast Low

plan has now been finalised based on formal submissions and was endorsed by the Catchments and Coast Committee for adoption by Council. “It is acknowledged in the plan that the current level of flood risk can be managed to an acceptable level on the proviso that priority actions are implemented in the short to medium term. “As such, the flood risk is relatively low if measures such as the preparation of development controls and emergency response measures are implemented. “However, potential impacts posed by climate change, such as sea level rise, will need to be incorporated into

any future decision making process as this flood risk transitions from low to high over the longer term. “A majority of the management actions identified in the Plan should be achievable within current resources, such as preparing effective development controls and improvements in emergency responses in cooperation with SES. “Creating a more resilient community through the exchange of knowledge about flood hazards will empower individuals to take greater responsibility for their own safety and to act on advice or information during a storm event. “Major capital expenditure identified in the Plan, for instance

upgrading seawalls or road corridors, can be deferred until such time as the asset condition deteriorates or requires upgrade. “Further strategies recommended to be undertaken could be integrated within Council’s existing service delivery budget, such as climate change adaptation planning, review of planning instruments and development guidelines.” According to the report, in May 1974, residences of the Brisbane Water foreshore experienced the highest recorded flood at the northernmost point of Broadwater. The flooding was caused predominantly by unusually high tides and ocean wave set-up, commonly

referred to as an “east coast low”. The damage associated with this event, both direct and indirect, and major flooding events in NSW triggered a review by the NSW Government on development of flood prone land. In 1980, Council adopted a policy for development on flood prone land. Redevelopment of properties in and around Brisbane Water foreshore had required a minimum habitable floor level of 0.5 metres above the designated 1 in 100 flood level. This policy decision greatly reduced the estimated potential damages to residential and commercial buildings calculated for this study. Following the release of the NSW Flood Prone Land Policy 1984, State Government devolved the responsibility of floodplain management to local government. “In order to make balanced decisions, Council sought funding from the NSW Government to commission a study that considered flooding associated with coastal processes. In 2006, funding was secured under the NSW Government’s Floodplain Management Program to prepare a flood plain risk management study and plan in accordance with the NSW Floodplain Development Manual (2005). The first step in the flood risk process was the establishment of an advisory committee to act as a conduit for the dissemination of

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foreshore flood plan adoption information to the community and enable input from various agency and expertise to Council. The Brisbane Water Foreshore Flood Study (the BWFF Study), prepared by Cardno and adopted in 2013, provided the technical basis for the development of a floodplain risk management study and plan. The BWFF Study identified that peak flooding is primarily caused by severe coastal events, such as storm surge, and is not primarily related to heavy or prolonged rainfall stormwaters travelling downslope into the estuary. In April 2015, Council adopted the Brisbane Water Foreshore Floodplain Risk Management Study prepared by Cardno. This Study examined the potential flood risk across the Brisbane Water floodplain. It identified and assessed various management options to reduce the impact of flood and flood liability on individual owners and occupiers of flood prone property. A range of options were reviewed from property modification, such as house raising, to emergency response measures and flood infrastructure upgrades. The Study preceded the next and final phase of the floodplain risk management process in the preparation of the Brisbane Water Foreshore Floodplain Risk Management Plan. The Study evaluated management options to address the risk using a multi-criteria matrix assessment

(MCA). The MCA enabled a strategic assessment of the impacts of management options for existing, future and continuing flood risk on flood behaviour and hazard. “This was based upon a subjective but transparent quadruple bottom line assessment, incorporating: planning and governance; economic; social; environmental considerations. Management options were categorised into three broad categories: preventing and avoiding risk; reducing the likelihood or risk through flood modification actions and reducing the consequence of risk. Prevention strategies included informing strategic land-use planning on the capability of the land to support short term and long term development, limitations and controls without exacerbating the existing flood risk. A key component is the Flood Planning Level (FPL) and flood resilient construction. According to the report to council, prevention also involves informing emergency management planning on the limitations to, and constraints on, emergency response and the implications for the capability of the land to support future development. The approach to prevention that has been adopted by Gosford Council is to develop a management strategy that will consider the potential impacts of sea level rise at an early stage so that planning and some degree of readiness can commence

One of the many Peninsula streets swollen with floodwater

prior to any impacts occurring. The plan also commits it to continue to monitor properties that are affected by more frequent flood event and encourage house raising wherever possible. In terms of flood modification strategies to reduce the risk of flooding, the plan states that council will reduce the impacts of wave runup associated with ocean storm events around the periphery of the foreshore by maintaining public infrastructure and developing guidelines that will assist private and public landowners in designing and developing sea walls. Council will continue installing, maintaining and assessing floodgates on critical stormwater infrastructure to reduce the impact

of localised flooding during ocean storms. In terms of reducing the consequences of risk it will continue to work closely with SES to ensure that the wider community is informed and educated of the dangers associated with east coast lows. The plan provides for targeted programs with a particular emphasis on communities or senior living precincts where evacuation routes are inundated. It will review response plans, look at strategic land-use planning on the capability of the land to support evacuation and flood forecasting. None of the 16 submissions received by council during the public consultation process required significant changes to the document.

“The BWFFRM Plan has now been amended to address minor cross referencing issues and additional commentary relating to State government responsibilities for assets that are not owned by Council. “During the exhibition period, some concerns were raised in the media regarding publishing property floor levels. “Council has since conducted a review of the data provided and determined that key management actions contained within the Draft BWFFRM Plan would not be affected. “However, until such time as a separate report is considered by Council on the publishing of floor level data, it will be excluded from the plan.” “It is impractical to eliminate all flood risk from the Brisbane Water floodplain. “However, by implementing critical management actions effectively will reduce the potential damage to property and risk to life.” “The plan provides a practical framework for implementing management actions to address existing, future and residual flood risk. “The implementation of key management actions should minimise the impact of flooding and flood liability on individual owners and occupiers of flood prone property, and reduce private and public losses resulting from floods. Gosford Council Agenda GOV.185, 8 Dec 2015

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Gosford City 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 include other food related items as well as high quality “foodto-eat” vendors. Flowers, plants and trees will also be available for sale. Additionally the market will also feature hand-made products other than food such as artists, designers and other quality artifacts.

The market will operate each Sunday from 8.00am till 1.00pm Rain, Hail or Shine.

Gosford City Farmers’ Market Gosford Racecourse, 4 Racecourse Rd, Gosford West

Page 6 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

News

Notice of motion on council land sale withdrawn from agenda A notice of motion calling for the immediate withdrawal of 195 and 196 Brisbane Ave, Umina from consideration for sale by Gosford Council has been ruled unacceptable and was not debated at the final meeting for 2015. Cr Hillary Morris put a notice of motion based on the considerable number of residents who stated their opposition to a proposal to rezone, reclassify, subdivide and, once having maximized the value potential, sell parcels of operational land and community land throughout the LGA, including the Brisbane Ave lots. Cr Morris’ motion also called for council to work with the community to allocate a formal name, relevant to the history or geography of the area, to the Brisbane Ave site. She also wanted to debate a proposal that any funds raised from the sale of any land previously used as a playground be allocated

to the general playground budget. At the meeting, Gosford Council CEO, Mr Paul Anderson noted the item had, based on legal advice, needed to be withdrawn from the agenda. Cr Vicky Scott asked for an explanation of why the motion was illegal. Mr Anderson said he had advice that, under the Local Government Act, council could not reconsider an item they had already been reconsidered within a three month period. He said Cr Morris’ notice of motion had been received on November 25, which was within the three months, but it hadn’t been published in the agenda papers until December 3 or 4. “I did explore avenues to look at whether the notice of motion could have been used as a recision motion, but it could not have been considered because the [original] resolution was made as

a resolution and section 238 sub clause 2 [of the Local Government Act] deemed it to be an unlawful motion,’ Mr Anderson said. Cr Vicky Scott asked Mr Anderson to explain why the problem with the motion had not been picked up earlier. “The matter was picked up when the notice of motion was put in the agenda and it was my mistake, my bad effort,” Mr Anderson said. He said he had put the matter aside after receiving the notice of motion from Cr Morris and having legal discussions about it. “I was overcome with a whole range of work on the voluntary or involuntary merger,” he said. “It was my mistake and there was no one else to blame but me,” he said. Meeting transcript, 8 Dec 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Coastal framework may mean Gosford Beaches redraft The NSW Government’s new Coastal Management Framework may result in parts of the Gosford Beaches Coastal Zone Management Plan needing to be redrafted, according to Gosford Council staff. The draft management framework is currently on public exhibition. According to a staff report to the December 8 Gosford Council meeting: “The Stage 2 Coastal Management Reform incorporates a draft Coastal Management Bill, an Explanation of Intended Effect for the proposed new Coastal Management State Environmental Planning Policy, and a draft coastal management manual. “An initial review of this documentation indicates there will be changes to the way in which coastal risks are managed from a planning, legislative and resourcing perspective.

“Those Councils that either have a Coastal Zone Management Plan certified by the Minister or have submitted a Draft CZMP for certification will have until December 2021 to complete a revised Coastal Management Program to align with the proposed framework currently on exhibition. “The implication of the coastal management reforms on the Gosford plan is that it needs be presented to the Minister for certification as soon as possible. “If the plan is not submitted for certification then Council may be required to commence a review of the whole study and coastal planning process in mid 2016.” The Gosford plan has been developed in accordance with current policy and guidelines and is the culmination of years of sound coastal planning, the staff report stated. Gosford Council agenda GOV.187, 8 Dec 2015

Wishing you and your loved ones a very happy and safe Christmas! A special thank you to all of the primary school students for their inspirational ‘Christmas miracle’ card designs this year.

First Place Annie Lowbridge, Age 8, Avoca Beach Public School

Second Place Brendan Hattley, Age 10, Kariong Public School

Third Place Catherine Tran-Le, Age 8, Erina Heights Public School

Congratulations to all students including winning entries above and highly commended prize winners from Umina Beach Public School, Kincumber Public School, Central Coast Adventist School and Empire Bay Public School.

Lucy Wicks MP Lucy Wicks with some of the card design entries.

Federal Member for Robertson P. 02 4322 2400 E. lucy.wicks.mp@aph.gov.au W. www.lucywicks.com.au Authorised by Lucy Wicks MP, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford, NSW 2250.

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 7

News

Local bushland may benefit from COSS project The Community Environment Network (CEN) has received $453,000 funding for the Coastal Open Spaces System (COSS) Connections and Rehabilitation Project. CEN will be looking for expressions of interest from existing bushcare groups and landholders who are involved with the care of existing COSS land, land adjacent to COSS reserves or along COSS corridors. CEN had Mr Scot MacDonald MLC, parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast, visit Gosford on December 8 to announce successful funding for the project. The $453,000 funding is part of the NSW Government’s Bush Connect program through the NSW Environmental Trust and will be used to support landowners and landcare groups who want to care for and rehabilitate community land that forms the Coastal Open Spaces System. The Mount Ettalong Reserve is the main COSS site on the Peninsula. According to Ms Jane Smith from the Community Environment Network, land owners who back on to the Mount Ettalong Reserve or

CEN will be seeking local bushcare groups and landholders to work on the COSS Connections and Rehabilitation Project

who hold land that, for example, would connect the reserve with other areas of bush, may be entitled to assistance. Ms Smith said other bush regeneration projects would occur on public land and would involve providing assistance to bushcare groups and Gosford Council. The project has been developed

with a range of partners including Gosford Council, Greater Sydney Local Land Services, Greater Sydney Landcare Network and Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council. The Coastal Open Space System (COSS) is a network of reserves supporting natural vegetation that are managed by

Gosford Council for a number of environmental and community values. The COSS scheme is unique to Gosford Council and was established in 1984. Areas identified as having significant ecological, cultural and historical value were earmarked for

future protection and conservation by the council. Existing COSS lands have been voluntarily acquired by Gosford Council for the benefit of the community. “This project will aim to maintain and improve the environmental values of lands identified for COSS and the wildlife corridors that complement COSS lands,” said Mr John Asquith, CEN chairman. “The project will use the Land For Wildlife (LFW) program to engage landholders and support their efforts to rehabilitate natural areas on their properties. “Land for Wildlife is a voluntary conservation program that supports landholders who want to manage bushland on their properties for biodiversity values. “We are also aiming to incorporate landcare/ bushcare sites that occur within or buffer the COSS corridor.” “We will also engage landholders and encourage new LFW members through workshops, field days and education activities,” Mr Asquith said. Media release, Dec 9, 2015 John Asquith, Community Environment Network

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Page 8 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

News

Boundary realignment to allow for road access approved

General rate increase of 1.78 per cent Peninsula residents can expect their rates to go up by 1.8 per cent in 2016-17.

An application for a boundary realignment and resubdivision together with demolition of a garage at 5 Wagstaffe Ave, Wagstaffe has been accepted by Gosford Council. Council found that the development was principally the same as the development for which the consent was originally granted and the amended proposal does not raise any significant issues that warrant refusal. According to a report prepared by Gosford Council staff: “All relevant matters under Section 79C of the Environment Planning and Assessment Act, Section 89 of the Local Government Act, the objectives of the zone and the principles of ecologically sustainable development have been considered and no

objection is raised to the proposal subject to compliance with the conditions contained within the recommendation. The applicant was seeking to modify the consent for the development application by amending the subdivision layout to provide Lot 18 with unrestricted access to Wagstaffe Ave, in lieu of a previous Right-Of-Way arrangement. The amendment would also give the owner of Lot 18 the ability to locate a car and boat on Lot 18 adjacent to the street alignment. As a result the request for an amendment included the demolition of an existing garage. “Council’s Assessment Engineer has assessed the amended proposal and has advised by memo dated May 12, 2015, that no objections are raised to the proposed modification,”

subject to deletion of one condition and the amendment of another. It was acknowledged that the proposal didn’t comply with the minimum site area requirement prescribed by Gosford Development Control Plan (DCP) 2013. “However, as previously detailed, the original application contained an objection under SEPP 1 – Development Standards, and it was concluded that the SEPP 1 objection was consistent with the aims and objectives of SEPP 1 as well as the zone objectives. “In view of acceptance of the original SEPP 1 objection therefore, no further objection is needed, particularly as the subject application is made under S96 of the Act and the previous objection is still relevant.” Agenda item Gov.171, 8 Dec 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting

Increases in the general income local councils can earn will be capped at 1.8 per cent in 2016-17 reflecting minimal rises in council costs. The rate peg is determined by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) each year and sets the maximum general income NSW councils can collect. The main component of general income is rates revenue, but it also includes some annual user charges. It excludes storm water, waste collection, water and sewerage charges. Announcing the annual rate peg, IPART chairman, Mr Peter Boxall, said the rate peg is determined by changes in the Local Government Cost Index (LGCI) that measures changes in the average costs faced by councils, and consideration of a factor to capture improvements in productivity.

“The Local Government Cost Index increased by 1.78 per cent in the year to September 2015, reflecting the continuing low inflationary environment and modest rate of public sector wages growth since late 2012,” Dr Boxall said. “When costs are stable there is no justification to increase the burden on ratepayers beyond inflation. “Since the rate peg applies to general income in total, and not to individual rate assessments, it is up to each council to determine whether to apply the allowed increase in full and the impact on individual rate assessments. “Similarly, if councils want to increase their revenue by more than the rate peg they will need to consult with their communities before applying to IPART for a special variation,” he said. The deadline for that request has now passed. Media release, 4 Dec 2015 Julie Sheather, IPART

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 9

News

Five year old DA on privacy screens resolved A development application from 2010 has been amended by Gosford Council to provide alleviation of requirements for privacy screening at 42 MacDonald St, Killcare Heights. The Section 96 application to amend the original development application was referred to council upon the request of Cr Hillary Morris and Cr Bob Ward and due to the number of submissions received. The matter was the subject of a site inspection on December 1 that was attended by six Gosford councillors, three council officers, the property owner, their consultant and the objector via phone. Issues raised at the site inspection included the height of the privacy screen, the size of the gaps between proposed louvres and the impact of the recommendation on views from 42 McDonald St. The Section 96 application was to amend the privacy screen along a western elevation on a rear upper floor deck of the house. The applicant initially wished to remove the requirement for a privacy screen from the deck completely. Amended plans were then received with a modified privacy screen. Submissions received by council raised concerns about the

The view looking up to the balcony from the neighbouring property

adequacy of the privacy screen and also the use of the dwelling as a dual occupancy. The site is on the southern side of MacDonald St, bordered by a vegetation buffer strip and coastal cliff line to Bouddi National Park to the south, a uniformed extension of Babs Rd to the east and a residential dwelling to the west. The application for the removal of the privacy screen was advertised twice, first in February for 14 days resulting in the receipt of four submissions. The proposal was then modified to provide a partial privacy screen and was re-advertised in June resulting in another two

submissions. The original development consent granted by council on October 27, 2010 required privacy screens on the western elevation of the first floor deck and ground floor deck at the front of the building and at the rear, all requiring a minimum height of 1800mm and extending the full width of the decks (3600mm). The privacy screens were required to contain no opening and be constructed of solid opaque material. The modified privacy screen submitted by the applicant was a solid screen of 1500mm high for a distance of 1m including a 1m

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high horizontal louvred screen for 1400mm with the remaining distance of 1200mm clear glass balustrade at 1000mm high. Council staff recommended an acceptance of the modified proposal but an independent review recommended retention of a 1800mm privacy screen but to allow vertical louvres. “This recommendation is to ensure privacy is maintained to the adjoining properties whilst the louvres provide the applicant with the ability to have filtered views out to the water and headland,” the report from Council staff said. Council resolved to grant consent to the Section 96

application as it related to privacy screening. It ruled that privacy screens are required on the western elevation of the northern first floor deck and other decks and are required to be a minimum of 1800mm high and extend the full width of the decks. However, in terms of the western elevation of the southern first floor deck, the applicant was required to have 1800mm high screens for 1.2m at which point it reduces in height to 1500mm for the remaining length of 2400mm and they were allowed fixed vertical blades directed towards the south west. Council also ruled that the privacy screen on the southern first floor deck was to be certified by a structural engineer that it has been designed and constructed to withstand wind action. In terms of the concerns about the residence being used as a dual occupancy, the report said: “Council’s compliance staff have inspected the property and concluded that the property is being used as a single dwelling. “It is recommended that Council’s compliance officer monitor the property to ensure that it remains a single dwelling,” the report said. Agenda item GOV.167, 8 Dec 2015 Minutes, 8 Dec 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting

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Page 10 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

News

Planning controls for coastal frontage areas reviewed Site of proposed boatshed and studio

Boat shed and studio approved at Wagstaffe A development application for a boat shed and studio at Wagstaffewas approved by Gosford Council at its December 8 meeting. The subject site has a dwelling which was one of the original cottages in Wagstaffe and has 1970s additions. It was acknowledged that the boat shed was not intended to be other than contemporary in design. The council was told of concerns about the design of the proposal in relation to the properties either side of the site which have both been

identified as potential heritage items as part of Council’s Heritage Study. The heritage significance of the two properties could only be taken into consideration in this matter if they were already heritage listed. “Only at the time upon which the properties are identified in an exhibited planning proposal, then the heritage significance is a relevant head of consideration,” said a report prepared by Council staff that was presented at the meeting. The proposal was referred to

Council at its November 24 meeting for receiving five objections and a Councillor request. The owner of the property, who spoke at the Gosford council meeting, said he had taken on board a 42-page document from one of the objectors and made amendments to the plans. He expressed his respect for his neighbours and said he continues to talk to them civilly. Agenda item Gov.166, 8 Dec 2015 Meeting transcript, 8 Dec 2015 Gosford Council ordinary meeting

Preparation of the Gosford Beaches Coastal Zone Management Plan, which was adopted by Gosford Council on December 8, provided the basis for the preparation of planning controls for coastal frontage areas and triggered a review of Gosford’s Development Control Plan (DCP) 2013 Chapter 6.2 Coastal Frontage. “A review of the DCP Chapter involved revisiting concepts and rules for development footprints and engineering design. This was undertaken to improve development potential whilst minimising risks posed by coastal hazards. “A single coastal building line has been defined within the DCP.

“This applies a reasonable approach to balance competing interests in the coastal zone and establishes an acceptable level of current risk and future risk from sea level rise. “Some properties will be limited by the coastal building line and to address this, Council is proposing a flexible approach to development that allows for ongoing and safe development on the most severely affected lots. A separate report was adopted by Council to consider a revised Draft DCP Chapter. The report recommended placing the revised Chapter 6.2 of the Gosford Development Control Plan 2013 on public exhibition. Agenda item Gov 188, 8 Dec 2015 Gosford Council general meeting

CLEAN

meaning: honest, straight-forward, free of corruption. meaning: no connections with corporations, big donors, developers, financiers, or The Big End of Town. meaning: free of factional controls, factional deals, factional loyalties, secret plans. Meaning: I have zero interest in Party branch-stacking, number-crunching meaning: no ‘career politics’, just a focus on the needs of ALL workers, both young and aging. Liberal- voting workers & Labor-voting workers & Green-voting workers. All workers need: penalty rates; indexed pensions, good wages, jobs, Medicare, family assistance, child care, first-class NBN to generate jobs!!! meaning: immediate establishment of a NATIONAL Independent Commission Against Corruption [ICAC] ! Now!! meaning: no new coal-fired power-stations; 50% renewable energy by 2030; no toxic nuclear power stations. Lots of jobs from clean solar, wind, wave, hydro and hot-Rock!

INDEPENDENT LABOUR

pledge: I, Van Davy, owe no person, no corporation, no company, no Party, no faction, no organisation. I am free to speak, campaign, and vote the way I SAY I will vote, the way you KNOW I will vote.

All workers and their families deserve a decent ‘family wage’ and a strong ‘social wage’ [see below]. This is core business. Labor should be good at this.”. But, I also know that Labor is ‘on the nose’ … the same as the Liberals - and especially here on the Central Coast. Both Liberal and Labor need a democratic clean-out. WE, in Robertson, can do this. Can do!!! If ALL the workers in Robertson, the Liberal workers & Labor workers & Green workers … were to UNITE & put an INDEPENDENT into the Parliament, it would scare the pants off the Liberal and Labor parties and FORCE them to change … and quickly!

If you are a Liberal-voting worker - I can represent you better. I know the importance to you of both the “family wage” and the “social wage”. This is my core business. If you are a Labor-voting worker - I can represent you better. I know the importance to you of both the “family wage” and the “social wage”. This is my core business. If you are a Green-voting worker - I can represent you better. I know the importance to you of both the “family wage” and the “social wage”. This is my core business.

TOGETHER - we can show the parties that to win an election they must be: CLEAN + WORKER-FOCUSSED. SOCIAL WAGE - the ‘social wage’ is provided by government, from our taxes. The Liberals want ‘small government’. Small government means cuts/abolition of elements of your ‘social wage’. I am totally committed to strengthening and expanding the ‘social wage’. I will use my position in Parliament to speak for, to campaign for, to negotiate with other politicians, & to educate key public figures including reporters in the media. • Medicare … and public hospitals • Pensions … and indexation • Child care assistance • Family assistance • free public schooling

VOTE 1 VAN DAVY

FAMILY WAGE - the ‘family wage’ is protected by regulations [rules, Awards] usually negotiated by unions. Again, the Liberals want ‘small government’. Small government means less regulation. That is, Liberals love to “deregulate” [no rules, no Awards]. When they de-regulate, workers and their families, young and older, lose: • Penalty Rates • Decent hourly/weekly wage rates • Superannuation 9% to 12% • Loadings • Vacation & sick leave • Job creation - especially future-strong jobs • Job security

We can stop BigEnd Mal and his anti-worker GST !!! Right now, the Australian Government is controlled by THE BIG END OF TOWN which wants secrecy for the huge tax-avoiding corporations, more tax breaks for big corps and the already-wealthy, while really, really hurting ALL workers with an extra 15% tax on all food. Liberals don’t like raising money from the Big

End of Town. Here’s how we stop BigEnd: • Before we are asked to even consider a 15 % GST, all wealthy Australians must PAY THEIR TAXES !!! Tax dodges, and tax ‘havens’ as used by BigEnd o’Town Malcolm in the Cayman Islands, must be outlawed and seen as theft of public

monies because this is the money which pays for the ‘social wage’ and essential job-creating infrastructure • All corporations doing business in Australia must pay taxes in Australia! No need to raise the tax rate. We just need to get them to …… PAY THEIR FLAMIN’ TAXES!!!!! It is not important that BigEnd is wealthy, but

it is despicable that he [& much of the Big End of Town] can dodge taxes by placing his financial affairs in a tax haven !! • Superannuation … for the already wealthy, the 15% tax rate should be replaced with marginal tax rate. The 15% tax rate should remain for lowmiddle income earners.

• Negative Gearing … for the already wealthy, the negative gearing handout must be ditched. The incentive should remain, at least in the short term, for low-middle income earners. • Capital Gains … for the already wealthy, the 50% capital gains tax exemption should be ditched. It should remain, at least in the short

term, for low-middle income earners. • GST: When we get the Big End o’Town paying their taxes, THEN we can see if any changes need to be made to tax rates, Medicare levy, company and personal income taxes. Not before!

CONTACT Van Davy. • email: vandavy@hotmail.com • Facebook: Van Davy • Mobile: 0414 310 968 IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO SUPPORTERS: I need your help. I ask for zero campaign funds. But, I need ‘people power’ in the form of: on-the-job ‘smoko’ meetings with groups of workers at any time; house, hall, street meetings; before or after dinner chat/questions; prominent positions to display large banner signs. PLEASE PHOTOCOPY THIS HALF-PAGE and display it, or distribute amongst your work mates, friends, family. MERRY XMAS and a Happy New Year to you and your family, young and older. Authorised by Van Davy 40 Cornelian Rd, Pearl Beach NSW

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 11

News

From left, event organiser Ms Vicki de Carle with Ms Anne Charlton representing Senator Deborah O’Neill

Hospital Art volunteers

From left, Mr Tim McGavin CEO Ettalong Bowling Club, Ms Di O’Brien from Mingaletta, Ms Kathy Smith MP, Ms Vicki de Carle, Ms Anne Charlton and Laurie Maher from Coast Shelter

Mr Tim McGavin CEO of Ettalong Bowling Club with volunteers from Riding for the Disabled

Celebration of volunteers Ettalong Bowling Club hosted a lunch for 170 volunteers to acknowledge and celebrate their service to the Peninsula. Last year, only Umina Beach Men’s Shed and Hospital Art Australia volunteers enjoyed a combined Christmas party at the club. Event coordinator, Ms Vicki de Carle said the idea was discussed to extend the lunch to include many other groups who look after a wide range of needs and activities on the Peninsula. The Club’s Board were enthusiastic and agreed to fund the event. Over 20 groups were represented including Mary Macs, Peninsula Community Centre, Umina PCYC, Woy Woy Stroke Recovery Group, Mingaletta, Surf Lifesaving and Netball clubs, Riding for the Disabled, Umina

Beach Men’s Shed and Hospital Art Australia. In her welcome to the group, Ms de Carle reminded the volunteers about the role of clubs in the community. In addition to the financial assistance to local groups, local clubs provide a range of sporting activities and give our community a place to gather and have affordable meals and entertainment. “Clubs provide air conditioned, safe and comfortable cafes, restaurants and meeting places that can be enjoyed by all ages”, she said. Senator Deborah O’Neill was represented by Ms Anne Charlton who mingled and chatted with

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the volunteers and member for Gosford, Ms Kathy Smith MP gave a short speech thanking the volunteers for their hard work and dedication. “I was very excited to be part of this inaugural Celebration of Volunteers on the Peninsula,” Ms de Carle said. “Of course there are many more organisations and groups that we hope to include in future years,” she said. “It has been a real eye opener to me, researching so many wonderful groups looking after our community.”

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Page 12 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

News

Davy to run as independent for Robertson Mr Van Davy of Pearl Beach has declared he will run as an independent candidate for the seat of Robertson in the next Federal election, after his nomination for Labor Party preselection was rejected. Mr Davy described the ALP’s process for selecting its candidate as “rotten”. He has now resigned from the Labor Party and announced that he will run as an independent. In a letter to Mr Jamie Clements, general secretary of the NSW Branch of the Australian Labor Party, Mr Davy said the ALP preselection process for the seat had been marred by “unfair and unreasonable procedures which, in my view, corrupt the entire balloting process”. “You are aware of my attempted candidacy in the Robertson preselection, my request for access to the electoral roll so I could fulfil the requirements of nomination, my unanswered appeal, my rejection from the ballot, the rejection of another non-factional candidate, and the exclusion from the ballot of around 200 members,” Mr Davy’s letter said. He said all elections needed definite criteria, rigorous procedures and deadlines for opening and closing of nominations. “The seven day ‘window’ between open and close of nominations allows no time for any alterations, modifications, adjustments that may need to be

Neal is disappointed Belinda Neal has expressed disappointment at missing out on the opportunity to lead the campaign to take back the seat of Robertson from the Liberals at the next federal election.

Van Davy making a speech on Australia Day

made unless one has the benefit of an already organised, in-theknow, rules-savvy, communication networked, number-crunching faction. “In my view, the procedures surrounding the preselection ballot in Robertson are rotten procedures. “They have excluded two long-term and financial members from candidacy, and I have been informed tonight that around half the Robertson membership were excluded from voting. “I was one of them. “No reason has been given for me ‘not being credentialled’. “I was simply refused a vote because I was ‘not credentialled’. “I first joined the Labor Party in 1965. “I have carried the Labor flag throughout my life.

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“I retain my Labor values, I support most of Labor’s policies and, although critical of what I see as a soft and woolly leadership, I retain the view that the only Party with the capacity to deliver in Government the core policy sets of ‘family wage’ and ‘social wage’ so urgently needed by workers and their families, young and older is the Australian Labor Party. “But, Labor in NSW needs to be clean, and must be seen to be clean. “It needs to see policy and campaigning priorities through the eyes of workers. “Many workers have had a gutful and, while some have bled Left to the Greens, most are bleeding Right to the Liberals. Lots of them, workers, are voting Neo-Conservative, why? “Because Labor in NSW is not seen to be clean, and to many, it is seen to be weak in its advocacy and defence of workers, their families, young and old. “I have been denied all rights concerning the Robertson preselection despite 50 years of membership. “I therefore have no guilt in deciding to fight elsewhere for what I regard as clean politics and the needs of workers, their families, young and older,” Mr Davy said. Email, 13 Dec 2015 Van Davy, Pearl Beach

“We are not getting our fair share from Federal or State government and I don’t think the Liberal member is doing enough to look after the area,” she said. The majority of Peninsula Labor Party members supported Ms Neal in the preselection but areas further north supported the alternative candidate, said Woy Woy ALP president Mr Brad Ernst. Ms Anne Charlton will represent the ALP in the seat of Robertson at the next Federal election.

Ms Neal said: “We now have to band together and work hard to secure the seat of Robertson to prevent the continuing attacks on our schools, hospitals and health care by the present Liberal government. “I am particularly concerned about the attacks on the TAFE system and present government plan to university degrees to raise $100,000.” Mr Ernst said: “Belinda’s experience, track record and resilience mean that Belinda will continue to work for the Coast and the ALP. “She won’t be stopped doing her best to look after the Peninsula.” Media release, 15 Dec 2015 Brad Ernst, Woy Woy ALP

Community Building Partnership Grant recipients announced Five Peninsula based organisations have been recipients of Community Building Partnership Grants within the Gosford Electorate, according to member for Gosford Ms Kathy Smith. Ms Smith announced that the Umina Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) had received a grant to build safe and secure storage facilities at the club. Another recipient was the St Vincent de Paul Society of NSW for their Vinnies Woy Woy emergency

support and response centre. Mary Macs Place, also in Woy Woy and part of Catholic Care in the diocese of Broken Bay also received a grant. Gosford Council was also a recipient for its work on the major upgrade of the Trafalgar Ave playground. HammondCare also received a grant for its provision of dementia care in Woy Woy. Media release, 7 Dec 2015 Kathy Smith, member for Gosford

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21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 13

News

Development applications on USB sticks Gosford Council will accept development applications on USB stick or CD from January 1. Council chief Mr Paul Anderson said the move would streamline the DA process, make it easier for customers to do business with Council, and continue to foster growth and development across Gosford. He said: “We’re always looking for ways to improve our business processes. “This decision to go paperless is a great example of how we’re responding to feedback from the community and the development industry about making the DA process better. “Over the past two financial years, we’ve received almost 3000 DAs worth around $1.4 billion, so

it’s very important that we make sure the process is as simple and efficient as possible. “Moving to electronic submission of DA documents is set to save applicants and Council time and money, especially since there will no longer be duplication of paper plans or major printing costs. “Plus we’ve worked hard in recent years to reduce the average number of days taken to determine a DA by more than 20 per cent and I’m confident that our new paperless system will help us deliver even faster determination times. “As a bonus, it is also more environmentally friendly, reducing both printed documents and waste.” Media release, 09 Dec 2015 Paul Anderson, Gosford Council

Christmas Brekkie well attended The Bays’ Christmas Brekkie was attended by over 50 residents and visitors, some in Christmas costumes. “Our breakfasts have been very successful this year and are a major community event bringing neighbours together to make this a stronger community,” said the

Bays Community Group president Mr Bob Puffett. “This is the time of year to remember our neighbours who may need a hand to prepare for the bush fire season,” Mr Puffett said. Newsletter, 15 Dec 2015 Bob Puffett, Bays Community Group Inc

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NBN to be here in February The National Broadband Network will be rolled out around the Peninsula by February, according to NBN Co. Areas to be included in the rollout are Blackwall, Booker Bay, Daleys Point, Empire Bay, Ettalong, Hardys Bay, Horsfield Bay, Killcare, Killcare Heights, Koolewong, Patonga, Pearl Beach, Phegans Bay, Pretty Beach, St Huberts Island, Umina Beach, Wagstaffe, Woy Woy and Woy Woy Bay. An independent website, www. mynbn.info, lists the rollout date as February 6. “Construction is currently underway to connect nearly parts of Umina Beach, Pearl Beach, Patonga, Ettalong Beach, Woy Woy, Blackwall, Woy Woy Bay, Koolewong and Horsfield Bay,” said Ms Kelly Stevens of the NBN Co. “Pre-construction work is also being carried out in other parts of

Work on an NBN node

the area,” Ms Stevens said. “We expect that the areas under construction will progressively be able to connect to the NBN from the early part of next year,” she said. Using the map on the NBN Co website to check service availability, all locations on the Peninsula are currently listed as “build commenced”. As a wholesaler, NBN does not

sell directly to the public. Once the service has been switched on locally, residents will need to contact their preferred phone or internet provider and choose a new plan. Email, 17 Dec 2015 Tim Sowden, office of Lucy Wicks Email, 17 Dec 2015 Kelly Stevens, NBN Co. Nbnco.com.au Reporter: Jasmine Gearie

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Page 14 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

News

Astronomy for adults at Pearl Beach Tours of the Cosmos, Astronomy for Adults, will be presented by the Pearl Beach Progress Association on Wednesday, January 6. “Come along and enjoy a fascinating evening that will commence with a 45-minute talk and culminate with a viewing session through a telescope at the beachfront,” said Association communications officer Ms Lynne Lillico. “Local astronomy enthusiast Mr Paul Wickham will discuss the creation of the solar system, how galaxies form and current theories about the size of the universe,” she

100 solar panels installed at kiosk The kiosk at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct in Umina has had 100 solar panels installed on its roof. The 25kWh solar system installed will generate 32,850

kWh of solar power a year and will reduce the restaurant’s greenhouse gas emissions by 28,580 kilos of CO2 a year. “Our mission is to be a socially and environmentally sustainable business,” said kiosk business

owner Ms Gabby Greyem. “It’s vital that we, as a population, reduce our greenhouse gas emissions to protect the future existence of all species living on this precious planet earth,” Ms Greyem said. “We work to reduce our impact on the environment every day in every way we can and this solar system is another investment in our commitment to environmental sustainability,” she said. The system is set to reduce the cafe’s electricity bills by one third to a half. “We use a lot of electricity in our business, with fridges, ovens and coffee machines guzzling power.” “While the system won’t totally cover all power consumed by the business, it’s still a big step in reducing our carbon footprint”, Ms Greyem said. Media release, 17 Dec 2015 Gabby Greyem, Jasmine Greens Park Kiosk

said. The event is suitable for those aged from 15 years old, and numbers are limited to 25 participants. The cost is $10 to participate in the viewing which includes a welcome drink. Family members are welcome to come along for the presentation session, with additional drinks for a donation. The event starts at 8pm with registration at the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall and will conclude at 10pm. Media release, 16 Dec 2015 Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association

Couple to ride across Australia for Cerebral Palsy Two local Bays residents, Mr Paul Lepora and Ms Susan Douglas, are attempting to ride their motorbikes across Australia in December. The bikes left Woy Woy by road transport to Perth on December 1. Ms Douglas and Mr Lepora flew out on December 16 to collect them and have allowed a day for any last minute panics like flat tyres before leaving Perth early on the morning of December 18. The route they are taking is from Perth to Esperance (780km), then from Esperance to Madura

(750km). The next leg will be another 760km to Ceduna, then another 500-600km to Port Augusta, depending on the route. They will then decide on a northern route via Broken Hill and Dubbo or look for a southern option depending on the weather forecasts in each region. The complete trip will take in between 5200 and 5400km and they hope to arrive home on December 24. Ms Douglas is setting up a website to collect donations for Cerebral Palsy. Newsletter, 15 Dec 2015 Bob Puffett, Bays Community Group

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21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 15

News

Other Regional News - In brief Peninsula News focuses on news speciﬁcally relating to post code areas 2256 and 2257. The team from the 2015 Woy Woy Little Theatre Company's Flash Festival

Given the advent of a Greater Central Coast Council in the near future,

following is a summary of the first 9 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

Wave theme for Flash Festival Woy Woy Little Theatre’s 2016 Flash Festival will have the theme “wave”. Little Theatre president Ms Christine Vale said: “Writers are incredibly creative, so we’re really looking forward to seeing how writers can weave the theme into their short-play scripts for Flash in 2016. “Wave of light, wave goodbye, radio wave and catching a wave were just some initial thoughts the Flash committee came up when choosing the theme,” she said. The festival features 10 plays that run between five to 15 minutes over a three-day period. Scripts are to be submitted to the theatre before February 29 for

the judging panel to determine the 10 best entries. Directors will then be encouraged to nominate before April 4 in time for actors to audition on May 2. “It’s not too soon to start writing now,” Ms Vale said. “One of the things unique to the Flash is that in the last couple of years Woy Woy Little Theatre has also engaged professional writers, actors and directors to mentor those involved through Flash Creative Workshops,” she said. “So, high-quality support will be made available to budding artists.” Newsletter, 15 Dec 2015 Christine Vale, Woy Woy Little Theatre

Bridge Summer Pairs competition concluded The Woy Woy-based Brisbane Water Bridge Club held its Summer Pairs competition on November 27. The event consisted of twentythree contesting pairs. The winners, with 65.1 per cent, were Christine Hadaway and

Robyn Scahill. The runners up, with 57.9 per cent, were Janine Henry and Pam Gowthorp. In third place, with 55.6 per cent, were Judy Wulff and Robyn Lang.

www.peninsulanews.info and on 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 FRE

December 16, 2015 Your independent local newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369 Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260

Issue 123

Gosford’s city centre development approvals approach $700 million

Performing Arts Centre state funding and location still unclear

$10 million federal funding for Performing Arts Centre confirmed

Almost $700 million worth of development has now been approved in Gosford’s city centre after the Hunter and Central Coast Joint Regional Planning Panel gave the green light for another ...

Senator for NSW, Ms Deborah O’Neill, welcomed news the Federal Government had finally agreed to fund its one-third share of the construction of a performing arts centre in Gosford...

The Gosford Regional Performing Arts Centre is among three local projects to receive funding under the Australian Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund, boosting Central...

Quantum Towers gains Q t T i finance and work has commenced

Gosford Coastal G f d Beaches B h C t l Zone Management Plan adopted

Five storey building approved for Avoca Beach

Initial site preparation has commenced at the site of the Quantum Towers development at 7 Watts St, Gosford backing on to Henry Parry Dve.

Gosford Council adopted a key plan to protect the region’s vast coastline and many beaches at its last meeting for 2015, held on December 8.

A development application for a proposed five-storey mixed use building on Cape Three Points Rd Avoca Beach has been approved by Gosford Council at its meeting on Tuesday, December 8.

EPA directed to the wrong creek to do testing

Community C it groups angry over disallowance of notice of motion

Councillors C ill and d community it groups object to high handed actions taken

The NSW Environment Protection Save East Gosford Reserve and Councillors and community groups Authority (EPA) has declared two several other community groups have opposed the first actions creeks in the Central Coast water have expressed anger at a last- taken by a project control group catchment in good health and confi minute decision by Gosford Council (PCG) put in place to start work rmed that it continues to work with CEO, Mr Paul Anderson to disallow on the potential amalgamation of Verde Terra landfill.. a motion regarding the Wyong and Gosford Councils The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.centralcoastnews.net Coast Community News articles can also be read and shared on your mobile phone by going to www.coastcommunitynews.com.au.

Email, 7 Dec 2015 Albert Buckley, Brisbane Water Bridge Club

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Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 83

Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263.

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$300 million project recommended to Joint Regional Planning Panel

Councillors from both councils meet and form a joint transition team

Citizens’ panel recommended to determine new Council structure

The Joint Regional Planning Panel is expected to approve a $298 million staged mixed use development at 78 to 118 The Entrance Road when it meets at Wyong on Monday

Wyong and Gosford councillors held their first meeting on December 2 following the historic decision to voluntarily merge the two Central

Member for Wyong, Mr David Harris MP has said if the State Government moves forward with its undemocratic plans to merge Wyong and Gosford Councils without...

Joint submission to minister a matter of expediency

Councillors and C ill d community i groups object to high handed actions taken

A letter and submission sent to the NSW minister for local government, Mr Paul Toole MP, was intended to encourage him to consider issues of importance to the Gosford and Wyong councillors and their...

Councillors and community groups have opposed the first actions taken by a project control group (PCG) put in place to start work on the potential amalgamation of Wyong and Gosford Councils.

The councillors, executives and staff of Wyong Council are currently waiting for the NSW minister for local government, Mr Paul Toole MP, to announce their fate

New Chi Chinese Th Theme P Park N k agreement needed due to government delays

Council C il receives i report on breaches of confi dentiality and related matters

Private Members Bill introduced to stop Wallarah 2

Following a confi dential meeting of Wyong Council, its acting CEO Mr Rob Noble was authorised to attempt to negotiate a new contract for the sale of the land on ...

Issues relating to breaches of confi dentiality and the use of “closed” council meetings were again discussed at Wyong Council on November 25

Member for Wyong, Mr David Harris MP, has introduced a Private Members Bill called the “Wyong Special Area (Protection) Bill 2015” which actively seeks to block..

Councillors, executives and staff await their fate

Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263. The full articles and more can be seen on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net

Page 16 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Forum

ATO office unfortunate for Wicks What’s so bad about

our present system?

Member for Robertson Ms Lucy Wicks clearly believes in the old adage that, if one goes on repeating a lie often enough, people will start to believe it. Of course, craftily, original references to “600 local jobs” have subtly elided into “600 jobs in the Gosford CBD”, not exactly the same thing but sounding near enough for the unwary to be misled into thinking that 600 Gosford residents will get the opportunity to work in the new ATO office. In fact, as was always the case, the ATO office will house 600 existing ATO employees, and the only job opportunities

Forum LETTERS TO THE EDITOR should be sent to:

Peninsula News PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 or editorial@centralcoastnews.net

See Page 2 for contribution conditions created for Gosford residents will be in delivering take-out coffee or, perhaps, mopping floors.

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Proximity to the ATO office confers no employment benefit on Gosford residents, since the ATO is a Federal agency and recruits on the basis of national applications which any Gosford resident can make now. Ms Wicks also makes the point that “the Federal Government is not purchasing” the land on which the ATO office will stand, which is literally true but so disingenuous that it is difficult to believe that it will satisfy anybody. Perhaps Ms Wicks can tell us how a piece of public land passed into the hands of a private developer for the specific purpose of constructing an ATO office without the Federal Government’s intimate involvement in the process. What incentive was offered to the State Government to make this transfer which, on the face of it, offers little benefit to NSW taxpayers? It is easy to predict that any attempt to get to the bottom of this transaction will be met with a blank refusal to release any information on the grounds that is “commercial in confidence”. It is unfortunate for Ms Wicks that the Federal Government now admits that it lied about its documented involvement in this convoluted process. Perhaps, she should have checked with her political superiors before rushing into print with a defence of this whole sorry affair. Email, 11 Dec 2015 Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

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Beyond Federation from Klaas Woldring in the edition of November 9: What does it mean? What would we expect to follow from the abolition of State Governments and the breakup of the Australian Federation? Chaos? Anarchy? Revolution? A military dictatorship? And what is so bad about our present system of governance that would warrant such drastic measures to take place? We should be careful what we wish for, at the risk of meeting the consequences. We need to look around the world to view the mess that these republics find themselves in. Instead, we should be glad and proud to be Australian. So much good has been achieved in the shirt time since British settlement here in the 18th century. We have punched above our

Forum weight in so many areas. In government, in culture and sport and there is no good reason to radically overturn our system and start all over again. These were wise words written by Junius in the Public Advertiser, 1979: “We owe it to our ancestors to preserve entire those rights which they have delivered to our care, we owe it to our posterity, not to suffer the dearest inheritance to be destroyed.” If ever, in some future referendum we are called upon to dump our constitutional monarchy and opt for an Australian republic with a political president to rule over us. Shouldn’t we pause and ponder over this? In what way would we be better off? Letter, 16 Nov 2015 Don Parkes, Woy Woy

Will high rise mean a return of the ‘red rattlers’? With the approval of high-rise developments in Gosford, will it be standing-room only on trains at Woy Woy and a return of the “red rattlers”? The issue of transport needs a comment. How many additional rail passengers are there in Gosford with the 500 residential apartments of the Waterside development to be added to the 276 apartments of “the Twin Towers”? Gosford Council should have access to this information. What does this mean for railservice customers boarding at Woy Woy? What is the existing level of service and how will this change in the future? Will Woy Woy-boarding passengers be forced to travel to Gosford station to guarantee

Forum themselves access to the rail network? Approval of high-rise development prioritises infrastructure issues. If the Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge is closed for necessary structural repairs, which appears inevitable, what is Plan B? It seems that history is repeating itself. So much for learning from the past. Will it be bridge number three? Previous Gosford Council sustainability reports predicted an additional 10,000 residents for the Gosford CBD. How many of the 10,000 will be using the rail network? How many “red rattlers” are fit for service? I love progress. Letter, 10 Dec 2015 Norman Harris, Umina

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Page 18 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Health

Free post-breast cancer exercise program The YWCA NSW post-breast cancer exercise program, Encore, will run weekly in Woy Woy from January 29, 2016.

Fran Kendall (centre) performed with the Frantastics at the Peninsula Community Centre

Choir raises $950Health for leukemia research A recent Family and Friends performance by The Frantastics Choir has raised $950 for Leukemia Research. The main hall at the Peninsula

Community Centre was ﬁlled almost to full capacity as those in attendance enjoyed an hour of entertainment. Inquiries about booking or

joining the choir in 2016 can be obtained from the choir’s website, frantastics.org. Media release, 10 Dec 2015 Fran Kendall, The Frantastics

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Those wishing to participate in the free program will need clearance from a medical practitioner for the program’s individually-tailored exercise regime. The Encore program can be tailored to all ﬁtness levels and abilities, from the ﬁt to those with inhibited movement, and incorporates hydrotherapy as well as land-based exercises. The program will run weekly at Woy Woy on Fridays until March 18. The YWCA NSW post-breast cancer exercise program helps women stay well after experiencing the adversity of breast cancer. While the program has a strong focus on targeted exercise, the sessions also include information sharing through guest speakers, links to local community services and resources, and enabling participants with similar experiences to meet. In the last year alone, the YWCA NSW Encore program has worked with more than 500 women throughout NSW. Encore program coordinator, Ms Alison Todd said: “The program

really can change lives. “Many groups of women still regularly catch up, years after being involved in the program. “Many life-long friendships have been formed through Encore.” The NSW program manager, Ms Kate Guthrey said: “Exercise is one of the ways of supporting the body to recover after cancer treatment and it’s also a good way of keeping spirits up. “Encore not only offers women the proven beneﬁts of exercise but also allows them the opportunity to connect with others with a similar experience and to speak without judgement. “Understanding that there are others with similar thoughts and feelings has been shown to be very therapeutic and an important part of recovery,” she said. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Australia, excluding non-melanoma skincancer, and an astounding one-ineight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Women who have experienced breast cancer at any time in their lives are invited to register for the free post-breast cancer exercise program. Media release, Dec 14, 2015 Alison Todd, YWCA NSW

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21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 19

Health

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in Need. Central Coast Kids in Need raises money to assist families’ who have seriously ill children with prolonged illness. The money is used to defray the costs of accommodation for the families while their children are receiving their hospital treatment. Ms Jenny Simmons presented $120 to Kids in Need on behalf of Everglades golfers. Fundraising for 2016 has already begun with $1300 already raised. The next fundraiser will be held on Sunday, January 17. Newsletter, 15 Dec 2015 Ken Dixon, Sporties at Woy Woy

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put out by the children he ddear earr ch ea chil ildr dren en ooff the house, you might u mi i ht bbe offered cookies, milk and we hear in some places even beer. You don’t have to eat all that has been put out for you. A bite here and there and one sip will suffice (maybe pack a bottle of water to quench your thirst).

Be especially careful with those bags of coal – they can be heavy.

Travelling from the North Pole all the way to Australia involves a lot of sitting, which can be detrimental to your health.

If there are many presents in the same house, don’t carry all of them at once.

So please, dear Santa, take breaks and do some stretches at least every one – two hours.

Always bend your knees, so your legs can take the weight.

You might have to do a couple of trips to the sleigh and back. While Rudolph and the other reindeers will nibble on carrots

Tuck in your chin and roll your shoulders as that will help release the strain on your shoulders from steering the sleigh and controlling those

eexcited xci cite tedd reindeers. i d You might even want to consider a back support. That can be done easily by rolling up a small towel for your lower back. Lastly, we’d like to remind you, that we chiropractors, Dr Peter, Dr Prue, and Dr Michael, are here to help you stay healthy. Regular chiropractic care ensures you are on top of your game at all times. We sincerely wish you, your family, the elves, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph a peaceful and merry Christmas.

We look forward to seeing you in 2016!

If you have any questions, contact us at office@uminachiropractic.com.au or make an appointment for a preliminary consultation (N.B Answers to select question may be printed in the future articles)

Page 20 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Education

Starlight Foundation benefits from children’s cookbook Blackwall’s Wallaby Street Early Learning Centre has launched its first-ever cookbook: ‘Cook Share Belong’.

Support agencies speak to students Local support agencies have visited Umina Beach Public School recently to speak with years five and six. Ms Jamie Tommerup from the Brisbane Water Local Area Command and Martin Eddy from Umina PCYC spoke about cyber bullying, access to websites and legal rights and responsibilities for students. Parents were encouraged to

have follow-up conversations with their children after the presentation. Gosford Council Youth Services attended to speak about Regional Youth Support Services and Headspace and to provide the students with gifts. Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Lyn Davis, Umina Beach Public School

The project has already raised $6,500 for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Fundraising will rise with the book available to purchase. It has been described as a wonderful resource for time-poor parents who want to produce meals that their children will eat. The hefty 144-page cookbook is overflowing with recipes from families on the Peninsula, as well as the Wallaby Street favourites that children have been eating (and loving) for years. The recipes are collated simply into snacks, meals and sweets and every recipe has been tried and tested by the children and families of our community. Wallaby Street Early Learning Centre manager, Ms Danielle Leete said: “Children can be difficult eaters. “Time and again parents ask us for the recipes of our lunchtime meals that the children eat to their

fill, but won’t eat when Mum or Dad cooks at home,” Ms Leete said. “So we decided to act, and in doing so, came up with a truly amazing book and wonderful keepsake for families.” In keeping with Wallaby Street’s sustainability and garden-toplate philosophies, Cook Share Belong is also a reflection of the importance of gardening and meal times in a child’s personal development. “Cook Share Belong’ shares not just some fabulous familyfriendly meals, but also something very special about the children that we cherish,” she said. “It celebrates the way we come together at meal times, the way children learn and the sense of belonging that comes with engaging with each other at the table. “I believe we’ve captured our love of fresh food, the importance of food in our young people’s lives and an overwhelming sense of community spirit.” ‘Cook Share Belong’ was produced pro-bono by professionals from within the

Wallaby Street community and funded by the centre’s parent company, Guardian Early Learning Centres, and the generosity of the community via sponsorship and donation. “So far we’ve seen families ordering copies for grandparents, aunties, uncles and friends, and we’re so proud to have produced a keepsake that is also the perfect Christmas gift,” she said. Guardian Early Learning Group chief executive officer, Mr Tom Hardwick said: “The team at Wallaby Street have excelled themselves again. “Over recent years they have raised more money for the Starlight Children’s Foundation than any other of our 67 centres. “I think this is their greatest project yet, which truly captures the amazing community spirit of the centre, I am so proud of them.” During the past five years, Wallaby Street has raised over $20,000 for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Media release, 10 Dec 2015 Kristy Gorden, KS Word

Final development day held The academic school year for the Peninsula’s public schools concluded on Wednesday, December 16. All staff at Ettalong Public School attended a final school development day for the year on Thursday, December 17.

The development day included CPR training and anaphylaxis response and treatment training. Ettalong Public School principal Mr Colin Wallis said: “We will welcome back those in Years 1 to 6 on January 28 and those in Kindergarten on February 1. “I will be leading the deployment

of the Learning Management and Business Reform on the Central Coast for the first three terms of next year,” Mr Wallis said. “I know I am leaving the school in expert hands,” he said. Newsletter, 15 Dec 2015 Caolin Wallis, Ettalong Public School

Mini fete raised $5,500 Umina Beach Public School’s year six students recently demonstrated outstanding organisational skills recently when they ran a successful mini fete. Year six raised $5,500 in total. They have already made a donation to the library of two DVDs about the early days of Umina. “This will be a wonderful resource when studying the local history of our area,” said Umina Beach Public School principal, Ms Lyn Davis. Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Lyn Davis, Umina Beach Public School

Enjoy High Tea in The Courtyard bookings essential

18a Railway St Woy Woy Open 7 Days

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 21

Education

End of year farewell at Woy Woy Woy Woy Public School has said farewell to its Year 6 students with the principal sending her well wishes. “Enjoy high school and make sure you come back and visit us,” principal Ms Ona Buckley said. “We will miss you, but know you will make us very proud, best wishes from Woy Woy Public School,” Ms Buckley said. A number of students have also been congratulated after gaining eight stars this term with the lucky students rewarded with a picnic and day out to Lions Park. Ms Buckley added that students and families should enjoy the summer holidays and thanked

parents for their ongoing support. “May I take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing and wonderful support throughout 2015,” Ms Buckley said. “Here at Woy Woy Public School we have a close knit community and all of us always have the best interests of the children in our care, at heart. “Enjoy the summer break and time together as families, keep safe and happy,” she said. “We look forward to seeing you all back with us in 2016.” Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Ona Buckley, Woy Woy Public School

Arden tops the state at HSC Senior Science Gosford High School student Arden Hechenberger, 17 of Umina, has topped the state in the HSC’s Senior Science course. Ms Hechenberger said her incredible achievement is credited to working consistently throughout the year and doing well in school assessments with the help of her teachers. “I couldn’t have done it without them,” she said. Ms Hechenberger said her hopes for the future are to move on to study international affairs. She has applied to study at the University of New South Wales and the University of Sydney, though she’s thinking of studying in Vienna, Austria in 2016, where she lived for three years as a child. Senior Science encompasses Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and

Ettalong Public School students celebrate the opening of their new playground equipment

Ettalong’s new playground officially opened Ettalong Beach Public School officially opened its new playground equipment on Friday, December 4.

Earth and Environmental Science. Interview, 17 Dec 2015 Arden Hechenberger, Gosford High School Reporter: Jasmine Gearie

“It certainly is an impressive structure and the students are all very excited to play on it,” said school principal, Mr Colin Wallis. “The colours (school colours) chosen set our school playground off beautifully,” Mr Wallis said. “Over the last days of term, we will, for safety reasons, roster a grade per day. “This will give every student an equal chance to use the equipment. “Teachers are also taking their

classes out in PE lesson time to introduce them to the new equipment.” Many thanks must go to our P&C, both present and past, for their tireless fund raising efforts

and commitment -- a great community project with a great result for our children,” he said. Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Colin Wallis, Ettalong Public School

114 Araluen Drive, Hardys Bay Enquiries: 4360 1293 www.hbcc.com.au

Christmas Day Service 9am Weekly Sunday services 9.30am

Gosford City Council is calling on the Peninsula community to contribute stories, photos and images regarding sporting history and folklore that will form an art installation in the new Woy Woy Oval. • How are sport activities important to you? • Do you hold good memories of the Woy Woy Oval or other sporting facilities within the Peninsula? • Did you make life-long friends through sport? • How does the history of the oval benefit the Peninsula community? If you are interested in being involved in the project, or believe you have some information that would be relevant, please contact: Coralie McPhie, Project Officer on (02) 4325 8429 or email Coralie.mcphie@gosford.nsw.gov.au

Page 22 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Out & About

Progress association elects new committee The Pearl Beach Progress Association had another busy year with its finances continuing to strengthen and provide a capacity to survive lean times and to engage in improvements to the facilities at its hall. “The events program was again very active,” said president, Mr Ross Christie.

“Lynne Lillico continued to devote an enormous amount of time and skill, ably supported by her events team, to bring an extensive range of functions and entertainment to the village,” Mr Christie said. “A highlight of the year was the centenary of ANZAC. “As well as the usual commemoration, a team led by Di Swalwell put together a most

remarkable exhibition. “The 10/50 tree clearing rules became a heated topic early in my year as president. The association made an extensive submission to a review process undertaken in response to wide community concerns. “The rules have been tightened but concern still exists about the freedom to remove trees in some areas in circumstances where fire

protection is not the issue,” he said. Mr Christie said the recent annual general meeting passed a vote of thanks for the work of Roger Murray (president for three years) and Paul Barclaire, who retired from the executive after extensive periods of service. “Both will no doubt continue to be outstanding contributors to the community,” Mr Christie said.

A new executive has been elected consisting of: Ross Christie as president, Russell Grove and Carolyn Everett as vice presidents, Tony McGregor as treasurer, Gabby Crompton as secretary, Jane Clarke as assistant secretary; Lynne Lillico as publicity officer, and Malcolm Davidson, Elizabeth Nelson, Greg McPhee and Di Swalwell as committee members. Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association

Pets not welcome at Arboretum New signs have been erected at each entrance to the Pearl Beach Arboretum spelling out that dogs, leashed or unleashed, are not permitted in the Arboretum. “Unfortunately some people believe that it’s OK for dogs to be in the Arboretum if they are on a leash,” said Arboretum president, Ros Sumner. Ms Sumner said the key rationale for the Gosford Council requirement that no dogs were allowed in the Arboretum was that it is a designated fauna and flora reserve that includes a wildlife corridor linking it to the National Park. “These areas have a delicate environmental balance for the presence and breeding of native birds and animals and domestic animals can upset this balance,” Ms Sumner said. “It is hoped that dog owners and walkers will understand this issue,” she said. Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Ros Sumner, Pearl Beach Arboretum

Getting off drugs is torture. Three months in one of our beds gets kids clean. Please donate to buy more beds in our special residences to treat addicted kids. Call 1800 151 045 or visit www.noffs.org.au

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 23

Out & About

Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hat awarded to Pearls on the Beach Pearls on the Beach restaurant at Pearl Beach has been awarded a coveted â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the 2016 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. It is the only restaurant on the Central Coast with this accolade. Earlier this year, Pearls on the Beach was also included in the Australian Financial Reviewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top 500 restaurants. Newsletter, 8 Dec 2015 Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association

Free mosaic workshop Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden will be holding a free mosaic workshop on Sunday, January 17, 2016. Garden coordinator, Ms Jill Meredith, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are making the faces for our human sun-dial which is to be installed in our childfriendly whimsical garden later in the year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The numbers of the clock face will represent various community themes and groups.â&#x20AC;? No experience is necessary and all materials will be supplied. The workshop will be held at the

Peninsula Environment Group Hall on the corner of Blackwall Rd and Billabong Rd, Woy Woy. The start-time is 9:30am and the event will continue into the afternoon. Children must be accompanied by a supervising parent or adult. To reserve your place, register via the Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden Facebook page or call the Garden coordinator, Jill Meredith on 4344 2704.

KB THAI Traditional Thai, affordable Dine in Takeaway Everything cooked fresh to order. Online order download our App

Open 7 Days, BYO O Lunch - 11.30am to 3.00pm Dinner - 5.00pm to 10.00pm

Email, 17 Dec 2015 Jill Meredith, Woy Woy Peninsula Community Garden

www.kbthai.com.au - 4341 0441 - 4343 1392 Opposite Catholic Church at Woy Woy

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Inspections and Enquiries Jason McKay on 0432 055 804

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Page 24 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Directory - Not for profit Community Organisations

Art Ettalong Beach Art & Crafts Centre Adult classes in Pottery Watercolours, Oils, Acrylics, Pastels, Silvercraft, Patchwork & Quilting Children’s Art & Pottery Mon – Sat 10am – 3pm 4341 8344 madogis@hotmail.com

Central Coast Art Society Weekly paint-outs Tues 4369 5860. Workshops 9.30am 1st & 3rd Wed Gosford City Art Centre 4363 1156. Social Meetings 1.30pm 4th Wed for demonstrations publicity@artcentralcoast.asn.au

4325 1420 Point Clare Art & Craft Wed - Adult Art Class Wed & Fri - Adult Crafts Bunka Embroid, Cards, Crotchet, Cross Stitch $3 Point Clare Hall 10am - 12noon 4325 5007 Hospital Art Australia Inc. Meet every Tue and Fri 9am-2pm - 109 Birdwood Ave, Umina - Painting and Canvas drawing. Volunteers welcome hospitalartaustralia.com.au

0431 363 347

Bushwalking National Parks Association Central Coast Twice weekly bush walks, varying distances and grades of difficulty. Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, floral, history. Keep fit and make friends. 4389 4423 & 4332 7378 Community Centres Peninsula Community Centre Cnr Ocean Beach Rd & McMasters Rd Woy Woy Activities, programs and support groups for children, teens, adults and seniors including occasional care, playgroups, dance classes, karate, fitness classes, youth services, gambling solutions, internet kiosk and social groups. www.coastcommunityconnections.com.au

4341 9333 Ettalong 50+ Leisure & Learning Centre Mon - Fri - Cards, Computer Lessons, Dancing, Indoor Bowls, Fitness, Handicrafts, Leatherwork, Line Dancing, Painting, Scrabble, Table Tennis, Tai Chi, Yoga, Darts 4341 3222 Community Groups ABC “The Friends” Support group for Public Broadcaster. Aims: Safeguard ABC’s independence, adequate funding, high standards. Meetings through the year + social afternoons Well-known guest speakers www.fabcnsw.org.au

4341 5170 Central Coast Over 30s Social Group Social contact, entertainment events & new friendships for people in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s & 60’s etc. Live music, house parties, restaurant nights, BBQ’s/ picnics, trips away etc. Free calendar 0422 243 101 cco30s@live.com.au

Central Coast 50+ Singles Social Group Ladies & gents dinner, dancing - BBQs & socialising each w/end. Monthly programme for all areas 4396 3640 or 0437 699 366 50pssg@gmail.com

Mingaletta Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Provides members and other groups a meeting place and referral hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs. Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm 6 Sydney Ave Umina 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

Peninsula School for Seniors Community Centre, McMasters Road, Woy Woy Discussions, rumikin, craft, history, walks, & coach trips Tues, Wed, Thur 4341 5984 or 4341 0800 Peninsula Village Playgroup Carers, Grandparents, parents & children ‘Intergenerational Playgroup’ Tues 10-11.30am 4344 9199 Probus Club of Woy Woy Friendship, Fellowship, and social functions for active retirees. 1st Wed - 10am Everglades Country Club 4341 9195 Seniors Computer Club Central Coast Beginners Class PC or Mac, Mon or Tues. Other Classes Mon to Fri, 10am to 12 md or 1pm to 3pm. Mthly Meeting with Guest Speaker, 1st Mon. Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre 4369 2530 The Krait Club Community Centre Cooinda Village, Neptune St, Umina 10.30am For seniors. Gentle exercises, quizzes, games, social activities, guest speakers, entertainment and bus trips - 4344 3277 Umina Beach Men’s Shed Men share a variety of tools, pursue interests and hobbies, spend time with other men and learn new skills Darrell 4342 9606 Volunteering Central Coast Refers potential volunteers to community orgs. Supports both volunteers and community orgs. Training for volunteers & their managers. 4329 7122 recruit@volcc.org.au

Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Protect and preserve the environment & residential nature of the Bouddi Peninsula and to strengthen community bonds 2nd Mon, 7.30pm Wagstaffe Hall 4360 2945 info@wagstaffetokillcare.org.au

Environment Peninsula Environment Group Environmental projects, (incl. Woytopia), Woy Woy community garden, social events, workshops, organic food

buying group www.peg.org.au p g g

Health Groups Al-Anon If someone’s drinking is causing you problems... Al-Anon can help 4344 6939 1300 252 666 Meetings Sat 2pm Woy Woy Hospital Ocean Beach Road Arthritis NSW 3rd Tues 10.30am Peninsula Community Centre, Cnr McMasters Rd and Ocean Beach Rd, Woy Woy 1800 011 041 Better Hearing Australia Central Coast Hearing loss management support and education. 7 groups across the Coast Providing practical experience and confidence 4321 0275 www.centralcoast. betterhearingaustralia.org.au

BlueWave Living Woy Woy Community Aged Care facility providing residential aged care to the frail aged. Permanent and respite care accommodation available. Information 2nd and 4th Tues - 11am 4344 2599 reception@bluewaveliving.org.au

Gambling Solutions Gambling help counsellors providing free confidential professional service to gamblers, family and friends. Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford and The Entrance 4344 7992 GROW - Small friendly groups formed to learn how to overcome anxiety, depression, and loneliness and improve mental health & wellbeing. Weekly meetings at Bateau Bay, Woy Woy and Wyong. 1800 558 268 or www.grow.org.au

Meals on Wheels Delicious meals delivered free Join us for a midday meal Help with shopping and cooking classes 4341 6699 Mary Mac’s Place Providing hot, freshly cooked meals - Mon to Fri 11am-1pm with support, info & referrals 4341 0584 marymacs@woywoycatholic.org.au

Overeaters Anonymous (OA) 12-step fellowship for those with eating disorders. No dues, fees, or weigh-ins. Peninsula Com. Cntr, cnr. Mc Masters Rd & Ocean Beach Rd. Woy Woy, Fri 8pm www.oa.org

0412 756 446 ParaQuad Specialist healthcare products home delivered for all continence, wound care, respiratory and nutrition requirements Professional Clinic Support avail. 1300 886 601 www.brightsky.com.au

Peninsula Village Wellness Centre Offering holistic and complementary therapies including aromatherapy, massage and music therapy 4344 9199

Peninsula Village Meals Delivered daily to your door Nutritious, great for the elderly 4344 9199 Peninsula Village Carer’s Support Group For carers of loved ones with dementia - 1st Wed 10 to 11.30am Paula 4344 9199 Peninsula Women’s Health Centre Clinic sister; counselling; alternate therapists; groups and community education; drop-in; support for women in crisis; 4342 5905 Wed & Thur 9.30am-3pm 20a McMasters Rd, Woy Woy www.ccwhc.com.au

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

Riding for the Disabled Horse Riding as a therapy for those with intellectual or physical disabilities. Volunteers required. No previous exp. necessary School hours only. Mon to Sat 4340 0388

Soundwaves Men’s a-capella 4 part harmony chorus - all ages 7pm Mon. Central Coast Leagues Club John 0413 276 698

4344 4363

Troubadour Central Coast Folk, Traditional & Acoustic Music and Spoken Word Concerts, Ukulele meets, and Sessions 4th Sat 7pm CWA Hall Woy Woy 4341 4060 mail.info@ troubadour.org.au g

Biz Plus Networking Association Business owners networking group. Biz Networking breakfast every Thur 7:15am - 9am Erina Leagues Club Geoff Neilson

Politacal Groups Australian Labor Party Political discussions, national, state and local government issues Umina Ettalong Branch 2nd Mon Umina Beach Bowling Club 7.30pm 4342 3676 Ourimbah/ Narara Branch Niagara Park Primary School 7.30pm 1st Mon 0410 309 494 kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com

Woy Woy Branch Everglades Country Club 7.30pm 2nd Mon 0412 517 520 belindaneal@bigpond.com

Peninsula Day Branch 1pm 2nd Mon CWA Hall Woy Woy 4341 9946 Central Coast Greens Active regarding ecological sustainability, social & economic justice, peace & non-violence, grassroots democracy & getting Greens elected 3rd Thur, centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au centralcoastgreens@gmail.com

Woy Woy Public Hospital Alliance To restore medical services previously available & upgrade to a standard that meets with local needs. 2pm 2nd Sat St Lukes Church Hall, Blackwall Rd Woy Woy 4344 4811

Politics in the Pub Central Coast Discussion of important political, social, economic, education, and land philosophy issues in a nonpartisan manner - 4th Thur except Dec. g Hotel Wyoming y g Grange

Woy Woy Stroke Recovery Club Everglades Country Club 2nd Tues 11am Company, up-to-date info, hydrotherapy, bus trips 4341 7177

Lions Club of Woy Woy 1st and 3rd Mon. Woy Woy Leagues Club 0478 959 895 Make new friends and have fun while serving your community.

Marine

Service Groups

Central Coast Rescue Unit Marine Education Courses. Radio Licenses, Boat Safety & Boat License & PWC License Tests, Navigation, Seamanship and Meteorology. 4325 7929

Northern Settlement Services - Volunteers Volunteers needed for friendly visits to the elderly in nursing homes. People with a second language encouraged. Training support provided 4334 3877

www.vmrcc.org.au g

Rotary Clubs International service club improves lives of communities in Aust. & o/ seas. Fun-filled activities, fellowship and friendship. Rotary Club of Kariong Phillip House, 21 Old Mount Penang Rd, Fri 7.15am 4340 4529

Music Brisbane Water Brass Brass Band entertainment for the community playing all types of popular music. Rehearsal every Tues 7.30pm-10pm 0419 274 012 Gosford Musical Society Minstrels Entertain at various venues on the Coast seeking new members Thur Night Laycock St North Gosford 4341 4210 JAZZ LEAGUE Live Jazz Bands - Come to listen, Come to dance Free - Every Sun Central Coast Leagues Club Gosford 2-5pm www.jazzleague.net

www.bwcaravanclub.wix.com/bwcc

jbthomson51@gmail.com

stateoffice@rdansw.org.au

Schizophrenia and Bipolar Fellowship For Schizophrenia/Bipolar/ Mental Health sufferers, family, carers and friends. . 1st Thur - 1pm Room 3 Uniting Church Donnison St Gosford 4344 7989 or 4368 2214

Brisbane Water Caravan Club located on the Central Coast and looking for new members

cvscc@nsservices.com.au

kersuebay@philliphouse.com.au

Rotary Club of Umina Beach Wednesdays 6.30pm Everglades Country Club 0409 245 861 curleys@ozemail.com.au

0409 245 861 Rotary Club of Woy Woy Tues 6pm Everglades Country Club. Don Tee 0428 438 535

Special Interest

network@bizplus.com.au

Bridge Duplicate Bridge Mon Tue Thur Fri Sat-12.15pm & Wed 9.15am Brisbane Water Bridge Club, Peninsula Community Centre 93 McMasters Rd. Woy Woy www.brisbane-water.bridge-club.org

Cash Housie 50 Games every Sat night Peninsula Community Centre, McMasters Rd, Woy Woy, 7.30pm. Proceeds to Woy Woy Catholic Parish. wwcphousie@hotmail.com

Central Coast Handweavers, Spinners and Textile Arts Guild Spinning and weaving, patchwork and quilting, felting and other fibre and fabric crafts, community quilting bees Day and Night Groups 4325 4743 www.cottagecrafts.net.au

Central Coast Family History Society Inc. Resources, information & advice to study your family’s history. 1st Sat 1pm Lions Community Hall, 8 Russell Drysdale St, E. Gosford. www.centralcoastfhs.org.au

4324 5164 Central Coast Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Service Help with issues with landlords & real estate agents? Free telephone advice and advocacy for all tenants and residents in residential parks. 4353 5515 cctaas@hotmail.com

Central Coast Lapidary Club, Minerals & Gems Learn silverwork, cabochons, faceting, enamelling, stone fieldtrips & fossicking. Weekly Workshops Tues and Thurs 8.30am-2.30pm Thurs evening 6-10pm 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah 4362 2246 Central Coast Potters Society Running classes, workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and social events - Annual exhibitions in May and December info@ccpotters.org 4324 5343 Central Coast Soaring Club Inc Gliding Club, Learn to fly, Instruction FREE to members Come and have an Air Experience Flight All Welcome 14 and up for Training Flying at Bloodtree Road Mangrove Mountain Thur, Sat, Sun ( weather permitting) 0412 164 082 0414 635 047

Sport Woy Woy Judo Club 3 Classes every Tue & Fri 5.30pm to 8pm Ettalong Leisure & Learning Centre Min age 5 years old 0434 000 170 www.woywoyjudoclub.com

Veterans National Malaya Borneo Veterans Association 1st Sat (except Jan) 2pm Ettalong Beach War Memorial Club, 51-52 The Esplanade. 4342 1107 Vietnam Veterans’, Peacekeepers’ and Peacemakers’ Assist all veterans & families with pension & welfare issues. Mon & Wed 9am-1pm 4344 4760 Cnr Broken Bay Rd & Beach St Ettalong. centralcoastveterans@bigpond.com.

Woy Woy Ettalong Hardy’s Bay RSL Provide help with pensions and welfare etc. Shop 5/382 Oceanview Rd Ettalong. Tues & Thurs 9am to 1pm p 4341 2594

Women’s Groups BPW Central Coast Empowering women of all ages in the areas of work, education, wellbeing and friendship. All women welcome to attend monthly dinner meetings. Be enlightened. $40 covers two course meal and speaker. 0438 989 199 bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com www.bpw.com.au/central-coast

Country Women’s Association Woy Woy Opposite Fisherman’s Wharf Craft & Friendship 1st and 2nd Wed 10am Meetings 4th Wed 10.30am 4324 2621 Country Women’s Association Umina Branch meeting 1st Wed 10am Craft and Friendship Other Weds 9am 1st and 3rd Sun 12.30pm 0438 033 039 - 4344 1070 Endeavour/Woy Woy VIEW Club Lunch 1st Mon, Everglades Country Club, 10.30am Friendship Day 3rd Wed, Ettalong Diggers, 11am 4342 2283 Gosford RSL Women’s Auxiliary For women over 18 years. Raise money for welfare of veterans and their families RSL Club, West Gosford 4th Mon 2pm 4323 7336 Peninsula Women’s Health Centre Counselling, therapeutic and social groups, workshops, domestic violence and abuse issues. All services by women for women 4342 5905 www.cccwhc.com.au

WOWGIRLS Wave of Wisdom WOWGIRLS Wave of Wisdom connects women and local businesses around a common theme of wellbeing to share wisdom and explore life’s potential. Regular PowWows, WOW Wisdom gatherings, WOW days and WOW courses.

www.ccsoaring.com.au

www.wowgirls.com.au info@wowgirls.com.au

If you would like your Community Organisation listed here, call us on 4325 7369 or see www.centralcoastnewspapers.com 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.

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 25

Out&About

Adjunct professor Dr James Morrison OA to perform on New Year’s Eve James Morrison, Australia’s internationally-renowned jazz musician, music educator, and an allround entertainer, will be performing at Ettalong Diggers on New Year’s Eve. He is a virtuoso in the true sense of the word. Besides the trumpet, he plays piano, all the brass instruments, saxophone and double-bass. At the age of seven, he acquired his first instrument, at nine he formed his first band, at 13 he was playing professionally, and at 16 he debuted in the United States with a concert at the Monterey Jazz Festival. Performances followed at the big festivals in Europe, including Montreaux, North Sea, Nice and Bern. There he played with many of the legends of jazz and Blues, including Dizzy Gillespie, Cab Calloway, George Benson, Ray Charles, BB King, Ray Brown and Wynton Marsalis. Ray Brown referred to him as the genius.

There were also gigs in the world’s most famous jazz clubs, including the Blue Note in New York, the New Morning in Paris, and the Tokyo Blue Note. Now 52, James Morrison’s career has been diverse and perhaps not typical of most jazz musicians. He recorded Jazz Meets the Symphony with the London Symphony Orchestra and conductor, Lalo Schifrin. He performed concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Opera House, and Covent Garden and performed for Queen Elizabeth II and American presidents, including Bill Clinton. He has also guest-performed with artists as diverse as Phil Collins, Chaka Khan and INXS. In 2000, James composed and performed the opening fanfare for the Olympic Games in Sydney. When not writing film scores, composing or being patron of several youth orchestras, he relaxes in some fairly unconventional ways for a musician, such as flying his plane or driving in a rally championship.

As part of the Queensland Music Festival, of which he was appointed artistic director in 2012, he conducted the World’s Largest Orchestra, breaking a Guinness World Record, which comprised 7,224 musicians at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium. James now spends much time in education and teaches in master-classes and workshops around the world. He was recognised for his service to the arts in Australia by being appointed a member of the Order of Australia. Particular mention was made of his contribution to music education. He was made a Doctor of Music at Edith Cowan University and is an Adjunct Professor at the University of South Australia. The latest chapter in a diverse career involved establishing the James Morrison Academy of Music in Mount Gambier, South Australia. The academy is dedicated to teaching jazz and offers the Associate Degree in Music. Email, 17 Dec 2015 Joy Allen, Ettalong Diggers

The Peninsula Diary of Events For events in post code areas 2256 and 2257 Saturday, Dec 26 Jo Taylor, Bayview Hotel, Woy Woy, 5pm

Hardys Bay Club

Wednesday, Jan 6

The Hearing Bus, outside Woolworths, Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy

Peninsula directory of services, contacts and support groups

Ambulance, Police, Fire 000 memorial Club

www.jamesmorrison.com Emergency Ambulance, Police, Fire 000 Police Assistance Line 131 444 Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 Woy Woy Police Station 4379 7399 Energy Australia 13 13 88 Gas Emergency 131 909 Gosford City Council 4325 8222 Marine Rescue NSW Central Coast 4325 7929 SES - Storm and Flood Emergency 132 500

Mingaletta 4342 7515 Aboriginal Home Care 4321 7215 Drug & Alcohol rehab 4388 6360

Accommodation Dept. of Housing Gosford 4323 5211 Cassie4Youth 4322 3197 Coast Shelter 4325 3540 Pacific Link Com Housing 4324 7617 Rumbalara Youth Refuge 4325 7555 Samaritans Youth Services 4351 1922 Youth Angle • Woy Woy 4341 8830 Woy Woy Youth Cottage 4341 9027

Animal Rescue Wildlife Arc 4325 0666 Wires 1300 094 737

Jam led by Bob Jackson at Hardys Bay Club 3pm Suzette Bennett, Bayview Hotel, Woy Woy

Thursday, Dec 31

Saturday, Jan 9

Saturday, Jan 16

Counselling

The Rod Stewart Tribute Show, Ettalong Bowling Club, 8pm New Year’s Eve Party with Big Yellow Moon Band Hardys Bay Club James Morrison, Ettalong Diggers Memorial Club The Box on the Water New Years Eve Party, The Esplanade, Ettalong Beach Waterfront Reserve, bookings essential Greg Sherar, Bayview Hotel, Woy Woy

Mimosa Duo, Live music and tapas, Jasmine Greens Park Kiosk, from 6:30pm

Centacare: 4324 6403 Relationship Australia: 1300 364 277 Interrelate: 1800 449 118

Sunday, Jan 10

Sunday, Jan 17

Family and Relationships

Reece Mastin, Ettalong Diggers Memorial Club, doors open 7:30pm Island Drumming Workshop, CWA Hall Woy Woy, 1pm to 4pm, adults and teens, bookings essential

Mosaic Peninsula PEG hall, Billabong 9:30am

Centacare Gosford 4324 6403 Central Coast Family Support Service 4340 1099

Saturday, Jan 2

Kids Bingo and Karaoke, Ettalong Diggers Memorial Club, from 10am

Bouddi Blondes, 7pm

Wednesday, Jan 13

Sunday, Jan 3 Jam led by Top Cat 3pm at

Thursday, Jan 14

Friday, Jan 15 The magical world of crazy science, Ettalong Diggers memorial Club, doors open 10:30am

Community Centres

Workshop, Woy Woy Community Garden, Cnr Blackwall Rd and Rd, Woy Woy from

Wednesday, Jan 20 Kids Drumming Playshop, CWA Hall Woy Woy, 10:30am to 11:30am, bookings essential Twilight drum circle, grounds of CWA Hall Woy Woy, 7pm to 8:30pm bookings essential

If you’ve got something happening on the Peninsula 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. See the Coast Community News for events in post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260 and the Wyong Regional Chronicle for events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 & 2263

Health Poisons Information 131 126 Ambulance Text Mobile 106 Ambulance GSM 112 Gosford Hospital 4320 2111 Woy Woy Hospital 4344 8444 Sexual Health @ Gosford Hospital 4320 2114 After Hours GP Help Line 1800 022 222

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Organisations Legal & Financial Help

Tour of the Cosmos, Astronomy for adults, Pearl Beach Memorial Hall and beachfront, 8pm to 10pm Kids Drumming Playshop, CWA Hall Woy Woy, 10:30am to 11:30am bookings essential

Sunday, Dec 27

Horizons (For men with children) 4351 5008 Uniting Care Burnside Gosford 1800 067 967

Peninsula Community Centre 4341 9333 Men’s Shed Cluster Inc 0413 244 484

Financial Counselling Service 4334 2304 Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Service 4353 5515 Woy Woy Court 4344 0111

Libraries Gosford district: Umina Beach 4304 7333 Woy Woy 4304 7555

Problems, Habits & Addiction Alcoholics Anonymous 4323 3890 Narcotics Anonymous 4325 0524

Transport Taxi 131 008 Busways 4368 2277 City Rail 131 500

Welfare Services Gosford Family Support 4340 1585 Meals on Wheels 4341 6699 Department of Community Services Gosford 4336 2400 The Salvation Army 4325 5733 Samaritans Emergency Relief 4393 2450 St Vincent De Paul Society HELPLINE 4323 6081

No one should have to go it alone.

Please donate now salvos.org.au/hope 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)

Page 26 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Classifieds Prices for classified advertisements in these pages come in three categories

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

events

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

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

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

Online classified advertising rates

Online only GosfordClassifieds.com.au is one of a network of 10 websites which form one of the largest independent online classifieds network in NSW with over 350,000 annual visitors, over 80,000 online advertisements and over 15,000 business advertisements. A premium VIP online business advertisement on GosfordClassifieds.com.au only costs $499 + GST for 12 months.

ANTENNAS A Better Picture

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

BATHROOM TJM Bathroom Renovations Quality Workmanship at affordable prices Call Tony

0411 678 203 tjmbathrooms.com.au lic15642c

BOREWATER Bores and Spears Install high quality pumps and maintenance free spears, existing systems reconditioned, all work guaranteed. Ph: Warren Greenway Ph: 4341 7736 Mob: 0408 225 390 lic No. DL1960

Bore Water Pumps

Spear pump installations, repairs & maintenance for all types of pumps est 1978

It costs a similar amount to go on any one of the other nine Sydney based websites as well, or only $1699 + GST for all sites for 12 months.

John Woolley 4342 2024

The other sites cover Bondi, Manly, Newtown, Cronulla, South Sydney, St George, West Sydney, North Sydney, Wollongong and suburbs surrounding those areas.

BUILDER

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

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

GosfordClassifieds.com.au for online Central Coast classified advertisements

Carpentry - Building over 30 years experience Local know how working with pride and honesty Paul Skinner Lic 62898c

0432 216 020 or 4339 2317

CARPENTRY

Carpenter (Semi Retired) Lic 1355c - Fully Insured

For all your home maintenance repairs and small jobs contact Max Hull for a friendly reliable service 4342 5893 - 0413 485 286 All quotes obligation free

ENTERTAINMENT

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

CARPENTRY AJ Donnellan Carpenter & Joiner For all your carpentry needs Specialising in Joinery

DOORS&WINDOWS

Mob ile S ervic e

30 Years Experience

Security : Entrance : Interior :

Call Anthony

Alluminium Glass Sliding Doors and

0419 611 637

Alluminium Quickslat Screening :

Lic#R92786

MGL

CARPENTRY Carpenter & Joiner 40yrs Experience Decks, Pergolas, Doors, Windows etc Fully Insured - Call Gary

Bifold : Wardrobe Doors : Windows : Blinds : Awnings : Dog And Cat Doors : Fly Screens : Locks : Wheels And Tracks

ALL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS Unit 1/14 Alma Avenue Woy Woy

4339 2424 0402 186 546 POLICE MASTERS LIC 409982903 SECURITY LIC 2E409965334 CARPENTRY JOINER LIC 256823C

0458 130 829 4341 1346 ELECTRICIANS BKW CLEANING no labour & materials over $1000

Electrical Services

Weston & Wilson Cleaning Services Domestic, end of lease, holiday & vacate cleans. Regular or one off. Fully insured, WWC & Police check avail. From $35 hour.

Maryanne 0403 505 812

DANCE

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

Lic No:248126C

Lights - Fans Power - Reno's Switchboards Security lights No job too small Call Ben on

Students 13 to 18 $8 www.ccbdma.org for more information

Enq: 4344 6484

Folk & Acoustic Music Club

would like to wish all our audiences a safe and Happy Christmas and New Year. We will be back again early February 2016 to start the New Year with a special concert CWA Hall The Boulevarde Woy Woy www.troubadour.org.au

4342 6716 BluesAngels Your total acoustic blues/roots package, top to toe, and then some. Minnie the Moocher to Eagle Rock and on into indie roots, beatnik jazz, backhills bluegrass and prog folk. Available as duo, trio or band negotiable for your party, event or venue.

tomflood@hotmail.com

4324 2801 FOR SALE

0404 093 299

YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICIAN Same day service Guaranteed

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

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

4308 6771 ENTERTAINMENT

1998 Daihatsu Terios All Wheel Drive Goes Well Excellent Condition 225,000km 10months rego Manual, towbar, electric mirrors, excellent sound system

3250 ono 0410 522 070

February 13 Bush Dance with Snake Gully Admission $18 incl. supper Folk Fed Affiliates & Pensioners $15,

The Troubadour

HANDY MAN

Slightly Off

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

Handyman Gardening Also: Chimney sweeping Parts & repairs Fencing repairs House maintenance Bill Wilson

0434 259 901

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 27

Classifieds HOME HELP

PAINTING

Ned’s Domestic Bliss

BUCELLO’S

For a range of services Cleaning - Shopping Cooking Call Nerida to chat about your needs

0403 674 793

Pensioner Discount

Painting Services

PLASTERING

PHIL BOURKE PLASTERING

• Residential and Commercial • Interior and Exterior • New Work and Repaints

Gyprock, Renovations

Free Quotes

Small Jobs, Free Quotes

All work guaranteed

0410 404 664

Over 36 yrs exp

REMOVALS

Subscribe now Deliveries & Removals, Local Sydney, Newcastle & Country. Single items or a house full. Competitive rates.

and don’t miss an edition Peninsula

02 4342 1479

Community Access

0411 049 559

News

1 Year (25 editions) to Peninsula News $75

Reliable Service

0418 452 474 Licence No 2107c

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

KITCHENS Quality Laminate Benchtops supplied and seconds for sale

R&J Benchtops Gosford

0456 884 545

CMK Painting and Decorating abn 2342 9360 036

Home Maintenance Maintenance Scheduling Colour Scheming 38yrs on the Coast

4382 2817 0419 202 609 Lic 27261c

PLUMBING

Umina Beach Plumbing All aspects of plumbing: Drainage and Gasfitting, Domestic and Maintenance Works

Installation of

rainwater tanks

4344 3611 0402 682 812

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

TELSTRA WOY WOY Call into Your local Telstra Store Woy Woy and discover a better way to connect. We will provide the best advice and support for all your communications needs. We care about giving you personal service.

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

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

www.duckscrossing.org/shop Name: Ph:

Lic 164237c

LANWMOWING

PETS

Eyecare

Dog Walker / Minder Experienced Cheapest Rates 0413 808 936 Peninsula Area

Lawnmowing and Stump Grinding Services Call Jamie

0413 088 128

CLASSIFIED advertisements 4325 7369

www.eyecarelawnmowing.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY CENTRAL COAST EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER corporate – website – events

a one stop solution for all your photographic needs

VALSPIX

www.valspix.com

0418 600 436

PAINTING

MASTERPAINTER

Email:

YOUR LOCAL PLUMBER Same day service Guaranteed

Blocked drains, Leaking taps and toilets, Hot water and all aspects Of pluming drainage and gas fitting.

Visit Telstra Store Woy Woy Shop 24 Deepwater Plaza 24/26 Railway Street Woy Woy Ph: 4341 0061

Credit Card Number:

TILING

Great rates for pensioners Excellent workmanship is guaranteed All aspects of painting also interior plastering and Dulux Acra-tex exterior rendering Fully Licensed, Insured, Dulux Applicator qualitytradesman@hotmail.com

CONTACT JONATHAN Lic: 217611c

0466 966 547

___________________/___________________/ ______________________________________/

Lic number 265652C

4346 4057

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

POSITIONS VACANT

Central Coast Newspapers,

Experiend Tilers wanted! Start Immediately 0439 589 426 PUBLIC NOTICE

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

TV REPAIR

ULTIMATE TRADESMAN Car Boot Sale Proud member of Master Painters and Master builders

Address:

Woy Woy Peninsula Lions Club

Jan, 31 9am to 1pm m

Great variety of stalls ~ BBQ, Tea & Coffee. Vendors Welcome ~ $15 per car Now at Dunban Road Car Park NB stall sites not open until 6.30am Cnr. Ocean Beach Road Woy Woy Always Last Sunday (Except December)

Enq: 0478 959 895

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS 4325 7369

PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250

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

The Shame File

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 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. • Affordable Roof Solutions Brad Sedgewick Ettalong • Sharon Martin - Devine Image • Depp Studios - Formerly of Umina • Stan Prytz of ASCO Bre Concreting • Andrew and Peter Compton • Bruce Gilliard Roofing of Empire Bay • Jamie McNeilly formerly of Jamie’s Lawn Mowing, Woy Woy • William McCorriston of Complete Bathroom Renovations • First Premier Electrical Service of Umina Beach • High Thai-d Restaurant of Umina Beach • Bob Murray of Vetob P/L

trading as Browse About of Woy Woy • Mal’s Seafood & Charcoal Chicken of Ettalong Beach • Simon Jones - All external cleaning and sealing services • Erroll Baker, former barber, Ettalong • Tony Fitzpatrick, Trading as Futuretek Roof Constructions • Tye King - Formerly The Fish Trap Ettalong Beach • Jessica Davis of Erina - Trading as A1 cleaning services • Simon and Samantha Hague, Trading as By the Bay Takeaway Empire Bay • Rick Supplice of Ettalong Beach, Trading as Rick’s Flyscreens

Page 28 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Sport

New little athletics amenities block funded Woy Woy Peninsula Little Athletics are the recipients of $304,000 in funding under the federal government’s National Stronger Regions Fund. The funding will be used to knockdown and rebuild a new amenities block for the Little Athletics club at McEvoy Oval in Umina. Two other projects were announced in the Robertson electorate with the McEvoy oval improvements being the only one

located on the Peninsula. The funding was announced jointly by federal minister for major projects, territories and local government, Mr Paul Fletcher and member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks. “Projects funded under the national stronger regions fund are ones which have been identified as priority infrastructure by local communities,” Mr Fletcher said. Media release, 7 Dec 2015 Tim Sowden, office of Lucy Wicks

Umina Beach mixed fours final decided From left, Lindsay Hicks, Max Shelton, Brian White (Bendigo Bank) Terry Brown

Monthly two bowls triples decided The last monthly two bowls triples for 2015 was held at Umina Bowling Club on Wednesday, November 25.

would like to wish all our audiences a safe and Happy Christmas and New Year. We will be back again early February 2016 to start the New Year with a special concert

CWA Hall Woy Woy 4342 6716

Pla num Building, Ilya Ave, Erina Café & Restaurant Breakfast, Lunch Monday-Friday Open 6:30am ll 4:30pm Every Thursday evening free live music Doors open at 6pm Dinner menu & fully license bar available We also specialise in Weddings, Corporate events, Training nights. hello@quattrocatering.com Full range of menus from Cocktail food to Ala-carte cuisine www.quattrocatering.com

4367 8000

Competition was keen and the previous month’s winners, Joe Ednie, John Hall and Brian Broderick from Umina were unable to produce the form that got them home in October. The end result for the November carnival came down to a two horse battle between the Umina team of Terry Brown, Max Shelton and Lindsay Hicks and the composite side of Greg Shirley, Jarrod Bates and Lee Patterson. The result was not decided until the last ends. The final result was first place to Lindsay Hicks’ team on three wins plus 30. Lee Patterson’s team achieved second place with three wins plus 28. Third place went to the composite team of John Burns, Terry Murphy and Frank Powter with 2.5 wins plus 20. Email, 5 Dec 2015 Ian Jarratt, Umina Beach Men’s Bowls Club

Japanese taiko + African djembe drumming. 2016 enrolments now open. FREE open nights 2nd & 9th Feb, 6.30pm www.therhythmhut.com.au

ATTENTION all food outlets and music venues. Advertise in this directory, this size for only $60+GST in full colour!

The Umina Beach mixed four’s final was recently held between Pat Neal, Elaine Manning, Lindsey Adamson, Alan Rhodes and Darren Fleming, Yvonne Gordon, Dawn Burrows and Brian Burrows.

the last few ends clinching the match 20-14. Alan thanked his team and named Pat Neal as the standout in the match. Runner-up skip, Brian Burrows congratulated the winners and his team which had a new face as lead in Darren Fleming.

The match was balanced for the first 12 ends and then the team led by Alan Rhodes pulled away over

Email, 8 Dec 2015 Ian Jarratt, Umina Beach Bowling Club

The team at would like to take this opportunity to thank our thousands of readers and advertisers for your interest and support over the past 16 years. We would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. Our office will be closed on December 21, 2015 and will remain so until January 5, 2016

The Fletcher Gallery ART SALE

30% OFF ORIGINAL PAINTINGS

10am-5pm

17 Dolly Ave Springfield www.zoefletcher.com or call Zoe Fletcher on

0497 766 522

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 29

Sport

Tennis club is ‘about community not competition’ The Woy Woy Tennis Club has always been more about community than competitive sport according to two of its office bearers, Mr Tony Carey and Ms Sigrid Deutsch. “If you stay around as long as I have, you witness sports rise and fall as they follow the fashion of the times,” said Ms Deutsch. “Tennis has been one of our most popular sports for a long time,” she said. “Up until 30 years ago, having either a swimming pool or a tennis court in your own backyard meant you were a person of status. “Today things are different.” Mr Carey said the Woy Woy Tennis Club’s priority lay with community rather than competitive sport. “I joined the club to meet people and I am delighted that our members come from all walks of life,” Mr Carey said. “There are doctors, lawyers, teachers, tradies and cleaners, the employed and those who are temporarily in between jobs, everyone is welcomed,” he said. Further proof of this long standing commitment to community building came from the list of the club’s distinctions such as the appointment of the ﬁrst female president in 1986; the donations raised for the homeless, return servicemen, and breast cancer research amongst other charities; the development of the tennis courts from the original two hard surfaces to the current six courts of mix surfaces with considerable costs borne by the members; and, supporting cross-generational and cross-gender competitions so that the young meet the old and males play against females. “I remember when we had Wednesdays restricted to ladies only,” Ms Deutsch said. “Many of the ladies would come to play tennis with their little babies in tow.

“It was a social occasion, an excuse for getting out and about while enjoying each other’s company. “Today, families are all so busy. “Besides, many families have both partners working full time so there is no room for social gatherings. “We still have our ladies-only day, it’s on Fridays, however so much has changed,” she said. Sometimes managing a community based sport association means also coming to terms with these social and cultural changes. Mr Carey, who has already served three terms as president, is fully aware of the “politics on a small scale” as he puts it. Some members insist that nothing should be changed or else you break with tradition. Others argue that introducing changes is necessary for the survival of the group…and so the debate continues. However, if membership numbers are anything to go by, the Woy Woy Tennis Club went from 200 members in its heydays to 80 at its lowest point. Under the stewardship of Tony Carey, membership numbers are now back to 140 and rising. So what’s the secret? “The reforms I’ve introduced are all about supporting our members, their networks, their relationships… .I just want our members to know they’ve joined a community that cares,” he said. This interview is part of the collection of stories on the Woy Woy sport culture. If you are interested in being involved in the project, or believe you have some information that would be relevant, please contact: Coralie McPhie, project ofﬁcer on (02) 4325 8429 or email Coralie. mcphie@gosford.nsw.gov.au. Interview, 1 Dec 2015 Tony Carey and Sigrid Deutsch, Woy Woy Tennis Club Reporter: Jackie Pearson

From left Mollie Murphy and Savannah Paterson from Umina SLSC

Marathon four day paddle planned Umina Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) members, Savannah Paterson and Mollie Murphy, will embark on an ambitious sea-journey on January, 11 to complete their Gold Award for the Duke of Edinburgh’s international award. The two girls will paddle from the Lakes Surf Club, the northernmost surf club of the Surf Life Saving Central Coast Branch, to Umina Surf Club, the southernmost surf club of the branch. Using sea kayaks, they will endeavour to achieve this over four days and over 53km. Along the way, they plan to stay over-night at three different surf clubs. Both girls have been planning this trip meticulously for the past six months and have had to consider many factors, including training, food and hydration provisions at sea, tides, and contingency plans for nasty weather. Back-up crews and support vehicles are being organised and they are open to offers of support from other groups. The girls’ safety has been the primary concern. Umina SLSC will be supplying inﬂatable boats as well as several senior and experienced ski paddlers. A roster has been organised for

different paddlers to accompany the girls on different legs of the trip. Other clubs are encouraged to support them along the route. Umina SLSC Publicity Ofﬁcer, Christine Lavers, said: “This has been a huge team effort from many of our Umina SLSC members. “Both girls have given a lot of themselves to our club in the form

of competition, assisting young nippers and voluntary patrol duties. “So it is ﬁtting that many of our club members come together to help them achieve their goals. “We wish for good tail winds and smooth seas,” she said. Email, Dec 17, 2015 Christine Lavers, Umina SLSC

Scrumptious Meals Choose your favourite Affordable prices Free delivery Want to meet new friends and have some fun? We can Help! Join us for a delicious midday meal and transport can be supplied Need assistance with shopping, medical appointments or cooking classes? WE CAN HELP !! Just call 4357 8444

Mannings Sports SALE SALE SALE

20% OFF Gun Bags and Gun Cleaning Gear 20% OFF Lawn Bowls Clothing 20% OFF Football Boots (Nike & Lotto) AND MUCH MORE REDUCED SALE ENDS 23/1/16

WAR MEMORABILIA WANTED

172 Mann Street, Gosford - 4325 1617 www manningssports com au www.manningssports.com.au

Page 30 - Peninsula News - 21 December 2015

Sport

Memorial service held for George Evans A memorial service was held at the Woy Woy Bowling Club for George Evans, a Life Member and long-time bowler at the Club, on Friday, December 4. Mr Evans died at his home on Friday, November 20 at 96 years of age. He was a legend at the Bowling Club, winning many Club Championships and District Trophies. Before coming to the Coast, he won many championships in Sydney at the Five Dock Bowling Club. George was a very popular member of the Club and was well known on the Central Coast across the bowling fraternity. His good friend and fellow

bowler, 97 year old Mr Felix Seady was there on the day to say a few words about his long friendship with George. Men’s Bowls president, Mr Jim Cassidy also commented on the great work that George had done for the club over many years. “George will be missed by all who knew him at the club,” Mr Cassidy said. “We had on display some of George’s memorabilia from his long bowling career, including numerous Championship Medals.” His family was presented with a Club Shirt inscribed with ‘George Evans, Bowling Legend, 1919– 2015’. Email, 6 Dec 2015 Ken Dixon, Woy Woy Bowling Club Gromet Umina Junior Boardriders with their 2015 trophies

ide Char T T FORT DENISON

Grubs hold presentation day

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

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

0519 1.49 0600 1.57 0008 0.48 1142 0.60 1230 0.53 0640 1.64 MON 1730 1.32 TUE 1816 1.34 WED 1311 0.45 2330 0.50 1900 1.35 0045 0.47 0123 0.45 0201 0.45 0716 1.71 0754 1.76 0832 1.81 THU 1350 0.39 FRI 1430 0.34 SAT 1509 0.30 1941 1.37 2022 1.38 2104 1.38 0242 0.45 0326 0.46 0412 0.49 0913 1.83 0955 1.82 1039 1.79 SUN 1550 0.28 MON 1633 0.28 TUE 1719 0.30 2148 1.38 2234 1.37 2325 1.37 0503 0.52 0018 1.37 0116 1.39 1127 1.73 0600 0.56 0701 0.58 WED 1809 0.32 THU 1218 1.66 FRI 1316 1.58 1901 0.34 1957 0.37 0217 1.44 0320 1.51 0420 1.61 0812 0.59 0927 0.56 1040 0.50 SAT 1422 1.50 SUN 1531 1.45 MON 1641 1.42 2054 0.38 2151 0.38 2247 0.37 0519 1.49 0600 1.57 0008 0.48 1142 0.60 1230 0.53 0640 1.64 TUE 1730 1.32 WED 1816 1.34 THU 1311 0.45 2330 0.50 1900 1.35 0045 0.47 0123 0.45 0201 0.45 0716 1.71 0754 1.76 0832 1.81 FRI 1350 0.39 SAT 1430 0.34 SUN 1509 0.30 1941 1.37 2022 1.38 2104 1.38 0242 0.45 0326 0.46 0412 0.49 0913 1.83 0955 1.82 1039 1.79 MON 1550 0.28 TUE 1633 0.28 WED 1719 0.30 2148 1.38 2234 1.37 2325 1.37

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

Grommet Umina Boardriders, affectionately known as Grubs, concluded their surfing year with their annual presentation day on Sunday, December 6. President Glenn ‘Nitro’ Alston said he couldn’t be prouder of the level of surfing shown this year.

“We had 70 registered members this year, aged from four through to 15, all of whom have improved as the year has gone on.” This year’s club champion was awarded to Molly Sheppard, who surfed exceptionally well this year. Barrel magnet Darcy Roser was the Senior Boys champion, with Nate Saley taking out the Junior

Boys and Ella Francis taking out the Junior Girls. GRUBS wish to thank all their 2015 sponsors and volunteers and look forward to starting again on the 1st Sunday in February. Media release, 17 Dec 2015 Glen Bible, Grommet Umina Boardriders

UMINA BAIT & TACKLE

From 6am Weekends and 7.30am Weekdays

21 December 2015 - Peninsula News - Page 31

Sport

Umina well represented at branch and state level Eight of Umina Surf Life Saving Club’s top competitors were members of the Central Coast Surf LifeSaving Inter-Branch Team on the weekend of December 12 and 13. The team competed against other NSW branches at the carnival held at Cape Hawke Beach. The Umina SLSC representatives were Kiara Jack, Kirsten Miller, Lachlan Braddish, Bradman Best, Mimi Henderson, Jemma Smith, Harry Braddish and Rachel Wood. The Central Coast team placed third overall. As a result of strong performances, Umina’s Jemma Smith and Rachel Wood were

selected for the NSW Interstate Team which will compete in Torquay, Victoria on January 8. Other great competition results for Umina SLSC for the year were secured in the Sydney Water Series. The series was held over four rounds in the Illawarra Shire at various beaches and comprised water and beach events. In the Under 14s at the series, Lachlan Braddish secured first place; in the Under 17s, Mimi Henderson secured first place, Jemma Smith secured second place, and Harry Braddish also secured second place. Jemma Smith is halfway through the Surf Life-Saving 2015 Summer of Surf Series and is currently well

positioned. The series is comprised of eight rounds and is held at various beaches in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Jemma is competing against the top female “iron persons” in Australia and is currently ranked in the top four. The first round of the Central Coast Board and Ski Series commenced on December 19 at Terrigal Beach. The second round will be held at Avoca Beach on January 10 and the final round will be held at Umina Beach on February 6. Email, 17 Dec 2015 Christine Lavers, Umina SLSC

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

Simply go to www.centralcoastnews.net They’re all there and it’s FREE Want to share something you ﬁnd really interes ng, see www.peninsulanews.info Umina's Jemma Smith in action

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