CCBA April-May Edition 2021

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Business and Lifestyle April - May 2021

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New zoo set to open: 11

TERRIGAL BOARDWALK NOW OPEN

Looking out to sea from the new Terrigal Boardwalk.

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SW Premier Gladys Berijiklian officially opened the new Terrigal Boardwalk recently before leading hundreds of excited locals on the first walk to The Haven. She was accompanied by the man who led the campaign to have the Boardwalk opened, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and Central Coast Council Administrator Dick Persson. A link via the Rocks to The Haven has been talked about for years, but it was Mr Crouch who decided to push for it in 2018. His move was supported by Council who voted to become a 50/50 partner in the project.

See our special feature starting page 13.

THIS EDITION

NEWS: Beachie transformation planned: 2 NEWS: Avoca Theatre owners rejoice: 3 COMMENT: Next Budget a test: 6 TRENDS: Is love passing you by: 30

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, Premier Gladys Berijiklian and Council Administrator Dick Persson walk with local school girls along our new boardwalk.

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Above: The popular Beachie and below, John Musca.

Beachie transformation planned New owners create a hip weekend getaway way  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM OUKLEY’S legendary Beachcomber Hotel will be transformed into a ‘cool’ quality resort destination by its new owners who paid $20M for the unique property.

Set beside Budgewoi Lake, the Beachcomber- or Beachie- as it is known to locals, changed hands for the first time in 25 years.

Its new owners Oscars Hotel Group will relaunch the hotel as a “cool new beach club and resort venue.”

Sydney-based hotelier and former Rothschild managing director David Kingston sold the “Beachie” in Toukley in an off-market sale.

Given Australians are expected to

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holiday closer to home thanks to the global pandemic, Oscars Hotel Group will relaunch the hotel as a new beach club and resort venue, marketing the property as a “hip weekend getaway, less than 90 minutes from Sydney”.

Located between two great lakes and minutes from the Pacific Ocean, the Beachcomber has nearly 100m of lake frontage and its own private pier.

It will be relaunched as a 4-star, 80room resort offering indoor and outdoor bars, restaurants, six function rooms, gaming and bottle-shop facilities.

The property will also have guest facilities including a pool, sauna, gym and wellness services on its 1ha site.

JLL’s managing director John Musca, who managed the deal, said the pandem-

ic had generated trading rading challenges and opportunities.

“The weight and nd diversity of capital remains strong forr the hotels nationally at present and, although ugh not indiscriminate, suitors are evidentt across the board for investments within the highly protected and resilient asset class,” s,” Mr Musca said.

The Beachcomber mber was seen a major trendsetter er for the old Wyong Shire and was tipped to be the start of a rush ush of resorts for the area. Sadly,, the rush never came but the revamped evamped hotel will put Toukley back ack on the map as a tourist destination. estination.

Sources: Urban Developer, eloper, media releases

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Good news for Coast icon Plan to keep films rolling at Avoca Theatre  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE Central Coast’s iconic Avoca Cinema will benefit from a timely Federal Government plan to commit $20M to assist independent cinema operators.

It will ensure the unbeatable joy of going to see a movie at your local theatre remains a popular experience on the Coast, as it has for generations of residents and visitors.

The Coast has a proud tradition of cinema going, but has suffered a dramatic loss of many cinemas in the past half century.

Theatres at Terrigal, Long Jetty, Gosford, the Peninsula and Kincumber have all succumbed to change to newer facilities at major shopping centres.

The Avoca Cinema is one of a handful of independent cinemas operating in NSW. The program is aptly named SCREEN, which stand for The Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods Fund.

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Avoca Beach Theatre in 1984 and today.

Significant decline in revenue It is administered by Screen Australia and will assist independent cinema operators who have experienced significant declines in revenue due to the pandemic, with one-off business continuity grants of up to $85,000.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cites and the Arts Paul Fletcher said the SCREEN Fund was expected to support up to 390 cinemas across the country manage the significant economic, health and social challenges they are facing as a result of COVID-19.

“The pandemic has had a devastating impact on cinemas, who have struggled to

Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks with Avoca Cinema managers Norman and Beth Hunter.

recover due to circumstances that were out of their control, such as capacity restrictions and a reduced flow of new release films by major distributors,” Mr Fletcher said.

“Independent cinemas represent around 30% of the cinema exhibition sector in Australia and play a key role by providing a popular, low-cost and COVID-safe way for people to go out and enjoy a movie

as part of a community - particularly in regional areas.”

“We’re introducing this funding to help support the viability of independent cinemas during this period when their business circumstances are still returning to normality, as the vaccine rollout progresses and Australia moves towards higher audience capacities.”

Federal Member for Robertson Lucy

Wicks said the funding would provide critical support for Avoca Beach Picture Theatre and assist the local community and economy to recover from the pandemic.

The SCREEN Fund builds on the Government’s investment of $800m in additional arts and entertainment funding announced in 2020, on top of its annual investment of around $750m in regular funding.

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April-May 2021 ISSUE 34 

How to get CCBA Central Coast Business Access is available at strategic locations throughout the Central Coast. To find a location near you visit our website.

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New school in shopping centre

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Lederer group pioneers trendsetting education precinct

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OSFORD’S Imperial Centre now features Australia’s first ever high school in a shopping centre thanks to the Lederer Group.

And it could lead to an important career in business for many students at the new school.

Now, bringing schools and shops together has long been the dream of parents who like to shop or work close by, but it needed a major owner to act as the trendsetter.

The Lederer Group recently announced the establishment of the high school within Gosford’s premier shopping centre, attended

by Minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge.

ET Australia Secondary College, an independent high school, officially opened the new school campus in March within the Imperial Centre This development follows the recent spike in demand for quality education on the Central Coast.

The school has two new campuses in Gosford for up to 300 students across Years 7 – 12.

Students will have a unique opportunity to be able to participate daily in the retail environment of a shopping centre.

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Plans underway for hands-on experience Plans are underway for students to gain “hands-on retail and business skills” through the provision of work experience placements with retailers that may lead to part-time after-school jobs.

This will give students a competitive advantage in their education as a result of being located in the heart of the Imperial Shopping Centre retail precinct and being able to interact with the retailers. This opportunity will build an innovative and modern model that the Lederer Group is

proud to be a part of.

Chairman Mr Paul Lederer showed Minister Tudge around the new complex.

“The Lederer Group’s principle goal is to innovate and create the future and not solely build off existing ideas,” Mr Lederer said.

“A vital factor in all education and training that ET Australia delivers is for students to be job ready. There is simply no better way to provide this than by giving these students real world experience in a retail environment where many people start their working lives,” he said.

INDEX News .................................2 Emma McBride .................6 Adam Crouch ....................8 Lucy Wicks .....................10 Terrigal Boardwalk ..........13

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The new alligators are unloaded at the Reptile Park.

Unloading 10 alligators It’s all in a day’s work at Reptile Park  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM NLOADING a shipment of agitated alligators is all in a day’s work for the staff at the Australia Reptile Park in Somersby.

The Reptile Park keepers undertook the highly dangerous task with a slightly nervous smile for the assembled media.

Ten huge adult male alligators arrived from friends of the park, Australia Zoo. The alligators arrived via transport and required all hands on deck as keepers took on the physical task of introducing the alligators into their new home.

Already home to 45 adult alligators, the process is considered extremely dangerous and kept the hearts of staff racing.

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They had to keep their wits about them as they opened each box with hearts pounding, hoping the alligators turned to the water and not to them.

Australian Reptile Park Director Tim Faulkner said the park could “never have too many alligators.”

We were on edge “It was a crazy morning, with a few close calls. The ground is still wet and still slippery from recent rainy weather which added an extra element of danger.”

“We all were kept on edge all morning but are happy to report all of the ‘gators are safe in their new home,” Mr Faulkner said.

“We didn’t know what sort of alligator was going to come out of each box as we opened them. Was this one going to be

nice? Or was it going to come charging out with us being the first thing it sees? We were kept on our toes, that’s for sure.”

Head of Reptiles Daniel Rumsey said it took a lot of planning.

“One slight step out of place can cost you, so we were very careful to follow a well-thought-out plan and ensure the safety of all staff in such a mammoth task.

We’re so glad to see it was a success and all of the ‘gators have begun to settle in and are swimming around happily.”

Keepers will now keep a close eye on the new arrivals, ensuring they are continuing to settle in with the other alligators.

Just how you settle down an argument between two or three alligators remains to be seen.

Most of the new alligators have been named after famous rappers with Notorious B.I.G, Flavor Flav and Tupac being just a few of the new arrivals.

With another 10 alligators arriving recently, the Australian Reptile Park has 55 American alligators, the largest population living in Australia. Visitors will be lucky to catch them being fed in all of their prehistoric glory.

The Australian Reptile Park is a hands-on zoo where you can enjoy live entertaining shows, themed exhibits and interaction with many of the wildlife sanctuary’s residents. The Park is open daily from 9am-5pm, with complimentary parking and BBQ facilities.

More information at www.reptilepark. com.au

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COMMENT

6 | APRIL - MAY 2021

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with EMMA MCBRIDE

Next Budget a test for the Government  EMMA MCBRIDE HE 2021 Budget will be an important test for the Federal Government on its ability to deliver jobs, infrastructure and support to the people and businesses of the Coast.

Budgets are about priorities and this budget will be no different. The only question is whether the Government will choose the Coast or continue to leave it behind.

Disappointingly, it is well known that our community has been overlooked by the current Government.

The NorthConnex project, which has improved travel times for thousands of Coast commuters, was funded to the tune of $412.3M by the former Labor Government.

The Government has enjoyed the limelight when it recently opened, but the project would never have got off the ground without Labor’s initiative in 2013.

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Risk as vaccine roll out delayed

The Central Coast is a popular place for older people to live.

Major infrastructure will generate the jobs and opportunities to encourage more investment, training for young people and economic activity for local businesses.

However, there is not a single project on the Coast on the Government’s current infrastructure priority list. This is not only a lost opportunity for our community, but it means too many locals leaving the Coast to chase job and training opportunities elsewhere.

The Central Coast is also a popular place for older people to live, in fact one in five locals is aged over 65 years. It can also be a tough place to find residential aged care or more support at home when you need it most.

Two aged care homes on the Coast have closed their doors and there are currently 1,109 older people waiting for a home care package in our community, many who have been waiting for more than 12 months. This leaves older people, their families and carers at risk, especially as the vaccine roll-out has been delayed.

The Aged Care Royal Commission laid bare the neglect of older Australians and locals on the Coast deserve better. The Government must properly invest in aged care in the May Budget–no older Australian should die waiting for care.

If we are to successfully re-boot the local economy after the COVID recession

we must encourage businesses to invest and re-hire.

The withdrawal of JobKeeper and cuts to JobSeeker have not inspired confidence.

Business NSW Regional NSW Director Paula Martin has noted that more than 5,000 local businesses face uncertainty following the end of these two important schemes.

Many SMEs in retail, hospitality and tourism will be in limbo because the Government turned off the tap on March 31.

These businesses are yet to fully recover and remain vulnerable to closure. It has left many people struggling to afford rent, food and other essentials, stretching community services.

Unfortunately, most targeted industry support to date has neglected the Coast, with airlines and far-flung destinations enjoying favourable Government subsidies. Meanwhile most workers and businesses on the Coast have been left to fend for themselves.

This budget is an opportunity for the Federal Government to invest in people, infrastructure and jobs on the Coast. Let’s hope this Government gets it right for the first time in eight years.

Emma McBride is Member for Dobell. www.emmamcbride.com.au

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COMMENT

8 | APRIL - MAY 2021

with Adam Crouch

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$100 for every adult in NSW  ADAM CROUCH he Dine & Discover NSW program went ‘live’ on the Central Coast in March, offering four $25 vouchers to every adult in the State. Our region was included in the first two stages of the roll-out, and forms part of a $500 million package to support local businesses.

Every adult can receive four vouchers totalling $100, with two $25 vouchers to dine and two $25 vouchers to discover.

‘Dine’ vouchers can be used for eating in at restaurants, cafes, bars, wineries, pubs and clubs 7 days a week, excluding public holidays. The ‘Discover NSW’ vouchers can be used for entertainment and recreation, including cultural institutions, live music venues, arts venues and tourism operators 7 days a week, excluding public holidays.

The vouchers are simple and easy to use, with customers able to access them via the Service NSW app.

It’s easy to apply for Dine & Discover NSW through the latest version of the Service NSW app and website, and a non-digital solution is available at Service NSW Centres to customers who don’t have a smartphone or compatible device.

Whether it’s a café, restaurant, cinema or gallery, every industry has been hit hard by COVID-19 and these vouchers will encourage more customers to come through the door. That’s why the Dine & Discover NSW program is designed to not just keep business doors open, but to help them grow.

Hundreds of Central Coast businesses have already registered to accept the vouchers, and a full map is available at: www. service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/find-dinediscover-nsw-business. It’s not too late for businesses to register, with vouchers valid for use until 30 June 2021.

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Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch with their Dine & Discover NSW vouchers

Councillors should not return On 30 October 2020, following revelations of Central Coast Council’s appalling financial situation, the Local Government Minister made a difficult but necessary decision to suspend the Councillors from their positions for three months. In January, the Minister subsequently extended their suspension by an additional three months.

Dick Persson, the Interim Administrator, has since discovered that the Council’s debt totals $565 million.

When the Administrator’s term expires on 29 April, the Local Government Minister has two options: allow the Councillors to return, or hold a public inquiry.

CENTRAL COAST GROW & CONNECT

Under no circumstances should the group of eight Councillors, who went to every effort to conceal the Council’s true financial state from the community and the NSW Government, be allowed to return to their positions.

Our community rightly expects that those responsible for the appalling financial situation are held to account. It would be reckless to allow the Councillors to return to their former positions and potentially inflict more damage upon the Council’s financial situation.

Clearly, further investigations are required. We must ensure that the group of Councillors and Council senior staff

are held to account for what is the biggest financial disaster of any Council in Australian history.

That’s why I am directly petitioning the Local Government Minister for a public inquiry. Under the Local Government Act, this is the only option available to the Local Government Minster as an alternative to allowing the Councillors back. A public inquiry would expose who was responsible, and would help to ensure these terrible mistakes and failings are never repeated.

Adam Crouch is State Member for Terrigal and Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast

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Spectacular Mt Penang.

Gosford gets a new gateway Underutilised Mt Penang Parklands a community resource OSFORD will finally have an exciting new Gateway project after the announcement of a joint project involving major public and private enterprises.

The 19ha development at the underutilized Mt Penang Parklands will make the highlights of the site while enabling major new community and private enterprises.

The Borg Group, one of the great success stories of Central Coast business and manufacturing, will develop the site.

The company already has a major facility at Somersby.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the Borg Group was a major employer on the Central Coast.

“I’m very pleased to welcome Borg’s expansion into Mount Penang, a move which in the long-term will create thousands of permanent jobs for locals,” Mr Crouch said.

“This development will be the catalyst for economic growth and amenity at Mount Penang as a gateway to the entire Central Coast region.”

Mixed story so far “The Borg Group’s announcement marks the second significant sale at Mount Penang, with HCCDC also selling land to the locally-owned and operated Stevens Group for a staged development over a 5.7ha site,” Mr Crouch said.

“HCCDC has worked hard to secure proponents that will not only enhance the region’s economic opportunities but will respect Mount Penang’s unique heritage and natural surrounds.”

Borg Group Managing Director John Borg said company had a long history on the Coast and was excited to begin work at Mount Penang.

“It is a great location and the opportunities it presents for both our business and the broader region to thrive is something we are very passionate about,” Mr Borg said.

The announcement is great news for the Coast, along with the Airport project, which gives the region some positive news after the doom and gloom of the Central Coast Council debacle.

Mr Crouch has called for a public inquiry into the toxic Council’s meltdown and for the Council not to be allowed to resume in late April.

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Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC), a NSW Government agency, owns and operates the Mount Penang Parklands.

They have had a mixed story, with major events like the Garden Show drawing thousands on one weekend a year, but on other weekends and weekdays they were deserted.

Mr Crouch said the Parklands were already home to more than 30 local and international businesses, education tenants, world-class gardens and a popular event space.

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COMMENT

10 | APRIL - MAY 2021

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with LUCY WICKS

We’re investing in job opportunities  LUCY WICKS HE Morrison Government is investing in young people across the Central Coast. We’re creating opportunities for education, career pathways and apprentices.

We know that young people have been some of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s why the Morrison Government’s 2020/21 Federal Budget includes targeted measures that get young people back into jobs.

In the Budget 2020-21 we announced $1.2B Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements Program which is providing a 50% wage subsidy for up to 100,00 new apprenticeships and traineeships.

This means support for Electricians, Carpenters, Plumbers and other trades to bring on more apprentices, and represents a huge opportunity for young people across the Central Coast.

The highly successful program has been extended after becoming fully subscribed in less than five months, helping to create 100,000 apprenticeships across Australia.

The Program will now become demand driven and expanded for a full 12 months for new apprentices and trainees signed up prior to 30 September 2021.

It is estimated that this demand driven expansion will generate around 70,000 new apprentice and trainee places, with the Government investing around $1.2 billion.

Further information on the support available to eligible businesses and employees is available at https://www.dese.gov.au/ boosting-apprenticeship-commencements In addition to the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements Program, the

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$4B Jobmaker Hiring Credit will give local businesses incentives to take on additional young job seekers as the economy recovers.

The JobMaker hiring credit will be payable for up to twelve months and immediately available to employers who hire those on JobSeeker aged 16-35.

This credit supports Australia’s economic recovery by bringing forward the hiring decisions of our local businesses so young people can get back into employment as soon as possible.

It will be paid at the rate of $200 per week for those aged under 30, and $100 per week for those aged between 30-35.

In Gosford, we’re opening an Industry Training Hub which will provide new opportunities for senior secondary school students to develop skills and learn about local in-demand occupations.

The facility is one of 10 around the country that were announced as part of the Government’s $585M Delivering Skills for Today and Tomorrow package that is designed to strengthen the vocational education and skills sector.

Each Training Hub is managed by a full-time Career Facilitator, providing an on-the-ground presence and aiming to improve opportunities for young people including Year 11 and 12 students.

Career Facilitators will work with and encourage young people to build skills towards employment, creating better relationships and connections between schools and local industry and repositioning vocational education and training as a first-choice option for our students.

Kim McLoughry, CEO of Regional Youth Support Services on the Central Coast said this Hub was a great idea for our region and she was glad to see the project was industry based and future focused.

Kim said that it was increasingly important to support young people to navigate the jobs market and get the qualifications they need for not only now, but also in 5- and 10-years’ time.

Tony Mylan, CEO of ET Australia, a training organisation and independent Year 7 to 10 secondary college, said the industry training hub addresses an important gap in the current system and he especially appreciated that it would be based in Gosford.

He said that the hub will act as a facilitator between employers and industry, schools, higher educators and individual students to ensure our young people can explore all options available to them when they leave school.

Having a job means more than earning an income. It means economic security. It means independence. It means opportunity.

This Government is committed to ensuring young Australians can upskill and reskill to secure a job and we have a strong plan to address young unemployment.

We’re doing this by creating jobs and promoting investment and growth in regional Australia and by putting in place the right policy framework to facilitate stronger jobs growth.

Lucy Wicks Member for Robertson.

Support for Electricians, Carpenters, Plumbers and other trades to bring on more apprentices.

100,000 apprenticeships created since October 2020.

Extending the subsidy for 12 months for new apprentices and trainees who sign up before 30 September 2021.

The subsidy extension is set to generate around 70,000 new apprentice and trainee places, with the Morrison Government investing around $1.2 billion. a

LUCY WICKS MP

Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250 02 4322 2400

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR ROBERTSON Authorised by Lucy Wicks MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250.

lucy.wicks.mp@aph.gov.au LucyWicksMP

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Gosford Racecource hosts standalone event

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

11

BRIEFLY Administrator gives chamber address IN what was described as a “fantastic night”, Central Coast Council administrator Dick Persson gave a detailed account of problems facing the council at Wyong District Chamber of Commerce. The March dinner at Wyong Race Club drew a large crowd eager to hear about Mr Persson’s efforts on behalf of ratepayers. While it was not all great news for attendees, it was extremely interesting to hear Mr Persson explain his findings from the last six months.

New zoo set to open THE new Central Coast Zoo at the Amazement complex in Yarramalong Valley is expected to open for the July school holidays. It will feature Meerkats, Marmosets, Snakes and other exotic animals yet to be announced.

The Zoo reports ‘Rozzi the Meerkat’ is slowly settling into her new home at Central Coast Zoo, with the rest of her meerkat family. Central Coast Zoo is within the grounds of the Amazement Farm and Fun Park at Wyong Creek, situated in the beautiful Yarramalong Valley just west of the M1.

Popular shop hangs up their boots Gosford Racecourse.

LL eyes in the racing world will centre on Gosford racecourse on Saturday, May 8, when the Race Club finally hosts its inaugural Standalone Saturday meeting.

In 2019 it was announced that Gosford would host its first Standalone meeting in May 2020, however because of the pandemic it was ultimately conducted at Randwick.

With restrictions now eased Gosford is finally on course to host the meeting on May 8.

The program has been substantially upgraded from the 2020 fixture. The most significant addition is the debut of a new race called ‘The Coast’, an unrestricted quality

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handicap over 1600m for 3 and 4-year-old horses.

‘The Coast’ will offer a $500,000 purse, the highest prizemoney ever for a single race at Gosford. With a BOBS silver bonus of $38,500 available to qualified horses, the winning connections could potentially pocket over $325k.

The Gosford Gold Cup will receive another boost in prizemoney, with the listed race over 2100m now being worth $250,000.

The feature racing continues with the $150,000 Takeover Target Stakes over 1200m. Total prizemoney for the day exceeds $1.6M. This meeting will allow the Gosford Race Club to showcase a fantastic event on and off the track

as well as building on the emerging racing scene on the Central Coast.

Along with the proposed upgrades to the racing and training precinct, this annual race day will cement Gosford Racecourse as a centre of excellence in the NSW industry.

Not only will the increased media coverage raise the profile of the Central Coast but also the knock-on economic benefit will be substantial to local businesses including hotels, pubs, clubs, restaurants and clothing retail.

Club Chair and prominent local businessman Michael Cusick said: “Gosford Race Club has been in existence for over 100 years and this race day is the most significant in its history.”

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Feel good about who you bank with. Try Bendigo.

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Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178, AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879 A1455027 OUT_1824334, 08/02/2021

One of the Central Coast’s longest serving businesses, KV Shoes, has closed its doors at Toukley. The business was start by husband-and-wife team Bill and Sue Barrett 43 years ago. They started at Killarney Vale way back in the 1970s after Mr Barrett gave up his bank job. After a quiet start, the business took off and the duo opened a second shop in Toukley. That became the main store and its long time following of shoe buyers and wearers sent it off with a rousing closing sale.

Motor fans, start your engines The new experienced and professional team at Central Coast Motorsport Park (formerly CASAR Park) are confident in delivering a world class project that will significantly benefit the community and be an integral part of the Northern Growth Corridor in the coming years. Formed by a group of enthusiastic local businesspeople who love motor racing it will be Australia’s first community motorsport facility. It will be located just north of the Swansea to M1 link road, it has reached the next stage of raising funds for construction.

NEWS

12 | APRIL - MAY 2021

www.coastba.com.au

Chamber: End of JobkKeeper concerning HE end of JobKeeper poses significant risk for business closures and job losses according to a survey of tourism businesses by the state’s peak business organisation, Business NSW. “Our survey shows the NSW visitor economy is set for massive job losses, cuts to hours for existing staff and businesses permanently closing once the direct financial support provided by JobKeeper ends,” said Central Coast Business NSW Regional Director Paula Martin.

T Paula Martin.

“Without JobKeeper and without other meaningful support, tourism businesses will have no choice but to let staff go, with 42% forced to reduce headcount and 53% expecting to cut hours for existing staff,” Ms Martin said.

“Concerningly a third of tourism businesses anticipate they will need to close, either permanently or temporarily, following the end of JobKeeper.

“Of those who close permanently, 36% say they will leave the industry for good and 52%

simply don’t know what they will do.

“The loss of industry capacity stands to be much worse should no further support eventuate. Only 11% of those who will close temporarily believe they’ll be able to re-establish their business without financial support.

“The survey results underscore the massive risk to NSW, Australia’s largest and most valuable visitor economy. Not only will we see an immediate effect on jobs, industry capabil-

ity and confidence, there will be flow on effects to the deep supply chain that sustains the visitor economy.

“Without further support, these businesses face financial ruin due to factors totally out of their control.

“We know that once the vaccine has been rolled out and international borders reopen, the visitor economy will rebound strongly. In the meantime, we risk hobbling the recovery should people leave the industry permanently,” Ms Martin said.

Post lockdown resurgence for fitness LOCAL gem, Central Coast Leagues Fitness (CCLF) is tucked away within the Leagues Club on Dane Drive, Gosford.

CCLF prides themselves on an inclusive community vibe, with members spanning everyone from seniors in the morning to workers smashing it out on their lunch break and the die-hard yogis.

Following the 2020 Covid shutdown, they’ve returned with the largest group fitness timetable on the Coast with spacious amenities and competitive price points.

CLF is becoming one of the most wellknown and respected gym facilities on the Coast.

Being located in the heart of Gosford, the facility has had the support of the local community, businesses and members to bounce back from Covid with a mission.

They aim to deliver premium services, including high quality fitness

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classes, clean facilities and exceptional customer service.

CCLF is continually investing in the club facilities and staff to ensure our members receive the most value from their membership.

For the corporate partners, they offer a range of successful programs aimed at improving the overall health and fitness of their employees. This in turn, improves employees’ wellbeing, helping them get more out of both life and work.

Whether you’re looking for a fun and healthy team building morning, something to shake up the weekly routine, or a staff appreciation event, our options cater to a range of needs.

Join some of the Coast’s leading organisations working with CCLF to support their employees’ health and wellbeing.

Contact them on 02 4325 9879 to get started today.

Central Coast Leagues Fitness

When you apply and get approved for a Home Loan, Personal Loan or Car Loan with us, you will go into a weekly draw over 12 weeks to win up to $5,0002.

O T P U F O E R A YOUR SH

H S A C $60K

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Also, existing Members who refer a new Member to take out a Home Loan, Personal Loan or Car Loan will be entered into the draw!

Offer ends 31 May 2021.

Enquire Today!

Call Wyong 02 4350 5255 or Budgewoi 02 4390 7681 or go to unitybank.com.au Credit eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. 1. The Promotion commences at 9:00am AEDT on 1/03/2021 and entries close at 4:30pm AEST on 31/05/2021 and loan must settle within three months of the draw date. To enter the draw entrants must submit and be approved for a Personal Loan (minimum $10,000), Car Loan (minimum $10,000) or Home Loan (minimum $150,000 and includes home loan top ups of the same amount or greater) during the Promotional Period. 2. Only available for new loan applications and loan refinances from competitors. The first draw is at 3:00pm AEST on 31/03/2021 and will be drawn at Unity Bank Limited, Level 7, 215 Clarence St Sydney NSW. Each Prize Winner will be notified during business hours by telephone, email or mail within 7 days following the draw.

Commencing the 31/03/2021 the name of each Prize Winner will be published on the Unity Bank, Reliance Bank and Bankstown City Unity Bank websites and Facebook pages 24 hours after we have notified the Prize Winner. Authorised under NSW Authority Number TP/00808, SA Permit No T21/241, ACT Permit No. TP 21/00256. Full terms and conditions available at www.unitybank.com.au/winashareof$60kpromotion/T&Cs. Unity Bank Limited. ABN 11 087 650 315 | AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 240 399.

TERRIGAL BOARDWALK

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The public turn out for the openiong of Terrigal Boardwalk.

Premier opens Terrigal boardwalk New attraction for locals and visitors to enjoy for generations  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM SW Premier Gladys Berijiklian officially opened the new Terrigal Boardwalk recently before leading hundreds of excited locals on the first walk to The Haven.

She was accompanied by the man who led the campaign to have the Boardwalk opened, Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and Central Coast Council Administrator Dick Persson.

A link via the Rocks to The Haven has been talked about for years, but it was Mr Crouch who decided to push for it in 2018.

His move was supported by Council who voted to become a 50/50 partner in the project.

The Boardwalk and upgraded rockpool provides a new attraction for locals and visitors and significantly improving access between The Haven and Terrigal Beach promenade.

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Our new boardwalk.

Central Coast Council Chief Executive Officer, David Farmer said the boardwalk and rockpool would deliver many social, health and economic benefits for our community.

“The Terrigal Boardwalk and upgraded rockpool will deliver a great visitor drawcard to boost the region’s economy whilst providing a safe and inclusive space for social connection and to encourage active lifestyles,” Mr Farmer said.

“This infrastructure provides a place where everyone can participate and enjoy this popular ocean front area. I encourage our community to head to Terrigal to check it out, enjoy the fresh air and sample what local businesses have on offer.”

The 277m long boardwalk was designed to complement the natural environment and composed of materials that can withstand the elements to ensure longevity and ease of maintenance.

The boardwalk features a viewing platform, integrated seating, lighting, access to the rock platforms and smooth

integration with the existing walkways either end.

It creates an accessible continuous link from The Haven to Terrigal’s town centre.

The restored rockpool is sure to be popular with local families and is now easy to access. An access ramp leads to the water and new pathways link the rockpool area with the new boardwalk and beach promenade.

Continuous link from The Haven Mr Persson said the project with multiple benefits was the result of extensive community consultation with feedback leading the design.

“Community consultation was undertaken during the planning period and feedback from every participant was used to inform final boardwalk designs.

In addition, concept designs were led by studies and an environmental assessment to ensure all impacts and risks were considered,” Mr Persson said.

“I’m pleased that the opening of this

new attraction has come at a time when our local businesses need it most with effects from COVID still being felt. As a regional destination tourism is vital to our economy and these new attractions will provide an extra boost.

“Council was able to deliver this infrastructure for the community with the financial support of the NSW Government and we’re appreciative of the investment in our region.”

The Terrigal Boardwalk project is jointly funded by Central Coast Council ($2.9M) and the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Regional Growth Environment and Tourism Fund ($2.98M).

The Terrigal rockpool renovation project is supported by the NSW Government with a $250,000 grant from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund in addition to funding of $728,542 from Council’s operational budget.

For project background, consultation information and FAQs go to: yourvoiceourcoast.com

TERRIGAL BOARDWALK

14 | APRIL - MAY 2021

www.coastba.com.au

Now it’s up to us to make it work

Premier Gladys Berrijilian leads the public and dignitaries along the bowartdwalk.

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE opening of the spectacular Terrigal Boardwalk is the biggest event in the famous seaside tourist beach and resort town in the 21st century.

Only the opening of the original Peppers Resort, now the Terrigal Crowne Plaza complex, 30 years ago could match the positive impact on the town.

It will provide a new era of prosperity for Terrigal businesses with visitors from

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all over the Central Coast and Australia coming to take the walk from The Haven into town. Alternatively, they can take a leisurely walk out to the Haven and the Skillion.

Terrigal has been the premier beach on the Coast since Colonial times, with the famous Skillion and the Norfolk pines featured as the backgrounds in millions of tourist snaps and the media.

Now visitors have a brand new reason to return in vast numbers to experience the thrill of walking around the rocks

Chamber welcomes boardwalk opening HE opening of the Terrigal Boardwalk is welcomed

by Business NSW Central Coast.

“As the quieter months of the year quickly approach us, the launch of the Terrigal Boardwalk will provide local businesses a boost by providing another great reason to visit the Central Coast.” Business NSW Regional Director Paula Martin said.

“Typically we see a downturn in visitation following Easter so the Terrigal Boardwalk offers locals and visitors another way to experience the beautiful and natural endowments of our region.

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“This new experience will hopefully increase our visitation through winter and with that the potential for accommodation, food and retail spend.

“We need to remember that even though restrictions are easing, business conditions are still fragile and business confidence on the Central Coast has taken a downward turn in the last quarter.

“Combine with the stripping back of destination based activities due to the Council situation, our region stands to benefit from the opening of this new infrastructure.” Said Ms Martin.

suspended above the beautiful blue waters of the Pacific.

It is an exciting time for the Business Community of the area and for Tourism in general.

It’s no secret that the business community has struggled in recent times because of COVID-19 and its massive impact on tourism and life in general.

True, there have been some ‘naysayers’, but the Boardwalk is perfect for seniors, disabled visitors and young families who no longer have to battle the dangerous

paths over the headland.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch is the man who has led from the front in getting the project completed, in conjunction with the staff at Central Coast Council.

When the lights were tested at The Haven to show what it would look like at night, social media lit up with positive feedback. Almost 100% of 200 respondents were positive.

Now it is up to the Coast and Terrigal to start marketing our latest asset.

It’s a new era for Terrigal  ROD DEVER ERRIGAL has long been the destination of choice of many for holidays and short breaks.

In the residential markets, the accommodation has always been popular and in-demand owing to the location and beauty of the area and the recreational and entertainment opportunities which it offers.

2021 brings the Terrigal Boardwalk to link the recreational aspects of the area with the entertainment and residential services. And what a fantastic facility the Boardwalk is.

The Gosford Erina Business Chamber welcomes the construct of the new facility and is excited

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about the benefit of the new Boardwalk.

The economic opportunity this presents will be a value add for the region’s tourism and visitor economy and provide a resource that is for everyone.

What is more important is the accessibility the facility adds in allowing everyone an opportunity to wander the coastline and take in its beauty, connecting the town centre and the beach with the coast and linking the Skillion and parklands with an easy, level access.

It is an exciting time for Terrigal and a benefit to have this great new infrastructure project open and available for all.

Rod Dever is President Gosford Erina Business Chamber.

Rod Dever.

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

www.coastba.com.au

Calling for a

PUBLIC INQUIRY Into Central Coast Council

The Councillors were removed by the Local Government Minister last October, and unless a Public Inquiry begins, the Councillors will be allowed to return to their positions on 29 April.

I support the petition which is being presented to the NSW Parliament in May, but I am going one step further by directly petitioning the Local Government Minister for a Public Inquiry.

A Public Inquiry would expose who was responsible and ensure these terrible mistakes and failings are never repeated.

Please support my petition for a Public Inquiry by using the QR code.

I will be presenting this to the Local Government Minister in mid-April.

Adam CROUCH MP Member for Terrigal 02 4365 1906 adamcrouchmp

terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au adamcrouchmp

adamcrouchmp.com.au u

Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250, funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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2020

WINNER CENTRAL COAST

Congratulations LANGDON HAIR WYONG

Winner of Most Outstanding Hairdressers on the Coast Internationally trained staff Hair Extensions specialists Quality Italian Alfaparf colours Multi award winning owner Sean Langdon 61 HOWARTH ST WYONG 4353 6373

CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS

ACCESS Terrigal Sails serviced apartments feature spacious studio, spa and one-bedroom apartments. Ideal accommodation for couples, small families or corporate travellers.

Terrigal Sails is a leisurely 5-minute stroll to Terrigal Beach as well as the Esplanade, with its range of activities, restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy a getaway and experience the NSW Central Coast.

Congratulations

02 4384 7444 Ê reception@terrigalsails.com.au

www.coastba.com.au

6 Maroomba Road Terrigal NSW 2260 Ê www.terrigalsails.com.au

Central Coast Business Access congratulates all involved in the development and delivery of the Central Coast’s newest attraction and community asset The Terrigal Bowardwalk.

TERRIGAL BOARDWALK

www.coastba.com.au

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

GEORGE’S FRUIT BARN TERRIGAL 45 Years supplying the highest quality FRESH fruit & vegetables cuisines. We also offer plenty of organic, gluten-free, keto, paleo, vegan and vegetarian products to cater to a broad range of consumer needs.

George’s Fruit Barn maintains high standards in customer service and strives to exceed customer expectations on quality and service to ensure a positive consumer experience. We continually search for and introduce new products for our local and multi-cultural customers.

WINNER BUSINESS OF THE YEAR &

George’s Fruit Barn are proud to be a win- Outstanding Fruit ner of ‘Outstanding Fruit and Vegetable Shop’ and Vegetable Shop for 2019 and 2020, and are equally proud to also be a winner of ‘Business of the Year’ award 2020.

We offer a wide variety of products and groceries both local and imported that aren’t easily found on the Central Coast, to complement our fruit and vegetables produce. As they say, “If you can’t find it anywhere, GO TO GEORGE’S!”

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George’s Fruit Barn specialises in selling the best quality fresh fruit and vegetables at the best prices. We offer a broad range of groceries to suit a wide variety of growing consumer needs, both local and imported that are hard to find on the Central Coast.

We put our customers first by assisting them with their needs and providing them with only the highest quality produce hand selected by us.

We support local farm growers in the area by selling their farm fresh produce directly to our customers. We also support local suppliers and small businesses around the area and their products such as homemade jams, spices, honey, eggs, baked goods and more.

George’s Fruit Barn has been in business for over 45 years. Our range of products includes a wide array of groceries including flowers, continental delicatessen and other imported

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georgesterrigal@gmail.com

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WINNER FINALIST CENTRAL COAST

Green View Retreat The perfect getaway Green View Retreat is amazingly beautiful and has a lovely private entrance and relaxing bush outlook.

FREE wine & chocolate on arrival. FREE Wi-Fi. Green View Retreat Airbnb is right above the Green View Gallery and next to the Higher Grounds Cafe. The cafe offers delicious food and drinks and the art gallery showcases unique local artwork.

Listen to the bellbirds from this very spacious 2 bedroom apartment. It is only 5 minutes drive to Avoca Beach and 7 minutes to Terrigal Beach.

Call Marie 0412 437 006 or Kerrie 0416 225 675 https://www.greenviewgallery.com/green-view-retreat.html 263 Avoca Drive, Kincumber, NSW Australia.

Wander through the gallery at your leisure. $SSUHFLDWH WKH EHDXWLIXO ÀQH DUW IURP ORFDO DUWLVWV ORYHO\ ODGLHV IDVKLRQV RU EURZVH DPRQJ WKH KRPHZDUHV D JUHDW VHOHFWLRQ RI XQLTXH JLIWV KDQGFUDIWV DQG MHZHOU\ 7KH JDOOHU\ KDV D JUHDW YLEH D JRRG SODFH to be inspired in and a great selection of artists and VW\OHV LQ D YDULHW\ RI PHGLXPV IRU VDOH DQG WR EH DGPLUHG Marie George 4309 5818 0412 437 006 greenviewgallery2251@gmail.com www.greenviewgallery.com.au www.greenviewgallery.com 2/263 Avoca Drive Kincumber NSW 2251

FINE ART v CRAFTS v GIFTS

18 | APRIL - MAY 2021

TERRIGAL BOARDWALK

www.coastba.com.au

www.coastba.com.au

TERRIGAL BOARDWALK

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

Sails ideal for travellers ERRIGAL Sails serviced apartments feature spacious studio, spa and one-bedroom apartments. Ideal accommodation for couples, small families or corporate travellers.

Terrigal Sails is a leisurely 5-minute stroll to Terrigal Beach as well as

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the Esplanade, with its range of activities, restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy a getaway and experience the NSW Central Coast.

Visit: terrigalsails.com.au

0414965556 magicmumscleaning@gmail.com

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20 | APRIL - MAY 2021

AUTO

www.coastba.com.au

Coming in for its mid-life update SsangYong gives Rexton generous power bump  CALLUM HUNTER ESPITE the ongoing uncertainty of the brand’s future, SsangYong Australia has launched its updated Rexton large SUV with the seven-seat family hauler being gifted new styling, more power and torque and increased standard equipment while the base EX trim has been dropped from the range.

As one would expect, dropping the previous range opener has driven the Rexton’s starting price up significantly from $39,990 driveaway to $47,990 with the now entry-level ELX rising in price by $1000 as part of the facelift – the flagship Ultimate has risen $2000 to now start from $54,990.

The most obvious change to the Rexton is its new aggressive front fascia with the whole arrangement centred around a completely redesigned grille and front apron.

New LED headlights and tweaked daytime running lights flank the grille in the top corners of the fascia with plenty of angles and sharp contours filling the rest of the space.

Changes have also been made at the rear with redesigned tail-lights and bumper which is now largely free of the typical black cladding found on SUVs with a set of integrated chrome exhaust tips poking through.

The rest of the Rexton’s body has been left untouched save for some updated alloy wheel designs on both the ELX and Ultimate while the interior has scored a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, overhead console and a redesigned gear lever.

Still powered by the familiar 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, SsangYong has bumped the Rexton’s peak power and torque figures by 15kW and 21Nm respectively with the mill now churning out a healthier 148kW/441Nm, putting it well and truly on par with its Japanese rivals.

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Made no impact To extract the most out of the updated engine, engineers have paired it with a new eight-speed automatic transmission – still featuring high and low-range – driving all four wheels via a selectable 4x4 system.

Fuel consumption has increased as a result of the extra grunt and new transmission combination, rising from a claimed 8.3 to 8.9 litres per 100km.

The extra shove has made no impact on the Rexton’s already class-leading braked towing capacity of 3500kg, however trailer sway control has been added to its list of standard equipment and safety gear.

On the ELX, customers score the aforementioned digital instrument cluster and redesigned gear lever as well as 18-inch alloy wheels, LED head-, fog- and tail-lights, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, TPU leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with power adjustment, heated rear seats, a leather steering wheel and cruise control.

The Ultimate steps things up considerably with 20-inch alloys, sunroof, powered tailgate, 360-degree camera, premium leather seats, heated leather steering wheel, wireless phone charging, rear zone air

conditioning, interior mood lighting, front touch sensing door handles and memory function for the driver’s seat and wing mirrors.

Standard safety gear on both variants consists of autonomous emergency braking with forward collision warning, blind spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, trailer sway control, driver’s knee airbag, tyre pressure monitoring and parking sensors front and rear while the range topper also picks up speed-sensitive steering.

The automatic locking rear differential has also been carried over on both variants.

Given it shares its ladder-frame chassis and the vast majority of its running gear with the Musso/Musso XLV pick-up, it should only be a matter of time before an updated version of the workhorse emerges brandishing a similar face and matching power outputs at the very least.

SsangYong has undergone ergone something of a resurgence so far this his year ending February with sales up 98.9 per compared to the same period last year (368 vs 185) with the Musso/Musso XLV doing the bulk of the heavy lifting (279).

The Rexton meanwhile has had a far more conservative start to the year with just 37 units sold (+5.7%).

2021 SsangYong Rexton driveaway ay pricing ELX (a) Ultimate (a)

$47,990 990 $54,990 990 0

AUTO

www.coastba.com.au

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

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Alpina aims for the top as it debut its new 8 Series-based B8 Gran Coupe

 CALLUM HUNTER MW tuning specialist Alpina has turned its hand to the 8 Series Gran Coupe and come up with one of its most powerful models to date in the form of the new B8 Gran Coupe; a high-performance four-door coupe for those who want something a bit different to the established German heavyweights.

In classic Alpina style, the relation between the B8 and the M8 are clear for all to see with the bespoke tuning house only making the subtlest of styling changes to the elongated coupe with the biggest difference being its metallic green paint – Alpina Blue is also available.

As with all Alpina models, the brand has made some changes and applied its own unique engine mapping to the BMW powerplant, which in this case is the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 as found under the bonnet of both the B5 and XB7.

In M8 guise the bent-eight develops 460kW/750Nm; marginally more power than in the B8 (460kW vs 457kW) but far

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less torque with the latter developing an extra 50Nm (750Nm vs 800Nm).

As with its donor car, drive is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Performance-wise, the Alpina will sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds and push on to a top speed of 324km/h.

Mass of power Despite the mass of power and performance on hand, Alpina says the B8 will sip 11.9 litres of fuel per 100km on the combined cycle while emitting 270 grams of CO2.

Under the skin, the B8 Gran Coupe rides on Alpina’s tried and tested adaptive suspension system with the brand also adding its usual Comfort+ drive mode to the package to gift the B8 a more compliant ride than its BMW M counterpart.

Speed-sensitive four-wheel steering ensures a greater level of slow speed manoeuvrability with the rear axle counter-steering by up to 2.3 degrees before switching to provide enhanced stability at higher speeds by turning in the same direction as the front wheels.

Pirelli-sourced rubber encompasses the bespoke 21-inch alloy wheels, behind which peek out blue four-piston brake callipers courtesy of Brembo.

The four-pot grabbers act on Alpina’s own 395mm drilled front rotors and 398mm rear discs with the pads also coming from in-house.

Matching the exterior design, the cabin is also decidedly BMW save for a few Alpina touches here and there like the illuminated door sills, crystal glass iDrive Controller and the now familiar Walnut Anthracite high-gloss accents.

Standard equipment on the B8 is as expansive as it is on the M8 with highlights including heated multifunction sport seats, heated steering wheel, BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery, Harman Kardon surround sound system, BMW iDrive infotainment system and BMW Driving Assistant Professional.

According to Alpina, the first European deliveries of the B8 Gran Coupe will commence in July with the car flaunting a €161,200 ($A250,605) asking price.

GoAuto has contacted Alpina Australia for confirmation on the B8’s local timing.

TRAVEL

22 | APRIL - MAY 2021

with DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

www.coastba.com.au

WANDERING THE WARRUMBUNGLES App for little-known national treasure  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HAVE always wondered why the Warrumbungle Ranges are not more famous.

They vault up out of the endless plains in north western NSW, providing an amazing sight from a distance and are even more amazing up close.

And when you are sitting in amongst them with dozens of kangaroos grazing away without a care in the world, it takes your breath away.

The trails within this park are outstanding. Shady walks along lazy creeks bubbling along followed by sudden vistas of dramatic landforms like the Breadknife and Belougery Split Rock.

I guess the lack of coverage is the fact that we have a nation with outstanding rock features like Uluru with modern five-star resorts, live shows, unique dining and an airport. The Warrumbungles have none of that…and that’s what makes it so special.

Pitch your tent or pull up your caravan and you become part of a landscape of whispering trees and brilliant nights.

In fact, the nights are so clear that the Warrumbungles is the home of an international observatory which is used by ‘star experts’ from around the world.

But it is the stunning landform that is the real star attraction.

Now visitors can now journey into an ancient volcano in Warrumbungle National Park with the help of a digital geotrail that provides a first-hand look at the molten lava, fire fountains and mud flows which once covered a large part of north west NSW up to 18 million years ago.

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The picturesque Warrumbungles.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the Warrumbungle geotrail included fascinating findings from a new scientific paper prepared by the Geological Survey of NSW and revealed for the first time, a detailed history of the region’s violent volcanic past.

Mr Barilaro said the trail could be easily downloaded through a user-friend-

ly mobile app and was one of five in a network of digital geotrails allowing visitors to experience some of the most spectacular landscapes regional NSW had to offer.

“Our geological scientists have uncovered the shape, size and lava flows of what we can determine was a shield volcano that existed after the dinosaurs became extinct and before humans walked

the earth and now people can experience it first-hand,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Thousands of visitors come to Warrumbungle each year to enjoy the site’s natural beauty and star gazing opportunities and through this new geotrail, we can now explore the remains of the huge volcano that gave rise to the local landscape.

Continued on page 23

TRAVEL

www.coastba.com.au

with DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

Continued from page 22

Each trail is unique “There are trail options suited to a range of abilities including a self-drive tour, a leisurely stroll around what used to be the volcano’s main crater and an adventurous hike around the Grand High Tops Circuit with breathtaking views created by the volcano’s unique geology.”

Mr Barilaro said the NSW Government’s growing geotrail network would lift the lid on hundreds of millions of years of geological history behind the Warrumbungle Volcano, Newcastle and Port Macquarie coastlines, Mutawinji National Park and the Central Darling region in the west.

“We use handheld audio and visual guides in the world’s most famous museums and art galleries, and geotrails provide a similar experience accompanied by fresh air and unearthing facts about the rocks beneath our feet,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Each trail is unique, covering local geological highlights and historic and cultural facts that will intrigue families, encourage them to stay longer and spend with local businesses.”

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

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Visitors can install the GeoTours NSW app on iOS or Android phones and tablets to download the Warrumbungle Volcano, Newcastle and Port Macquarie geotrails.

About the NSW Geotrail network:

• Port Macquarie Coastline Geotrail, (launched in 2018) – shows rocks made by volcanoes, by microscopic marine creatures and by underwater gravity currents.

• Warrumbungle Volcano Geotrail – journey into an ancient volcano in Warrumbungle National Park where there is evidence of magma and what used to be the volcano’s main crater.

• Newcastle Coastline Geotrail – showcases how the Newcastle coastline has changed across 250 million years and includes facts about volcanoes, a fossilised ancient forest, as well as Australia’s split from New Zealand • Coming soon (within 12 months): • Central Darling Geotrail – includes Mungo, Kinchega and Paroo-Darling National Parks, taking visitors through geological history including an-

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$60 per person

cient dry lakebeds and fish fossils and details about Aboriginal culture • Mutawintji National Park Geotrail – journey through a 400 million-year-old seabed, learn about fossils and explore evidence of thousands of years of continuous Aboriginal occupancy and use of this rugged desert landscape.

24 | APRIL - MAY 2021

FILM with JACOB RICHARDSON

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French Exit – 5 Stars Odd, charming and immensely lovable, French Exit is a triumph

rances Price (Michelle Pfeiffer) is a Manhattan socialite known as much for her acerbic wit and unusual antics as she is for the rumor that she murdered her late husband. Her expensive taste is challenged, however, when her inheritance dwindles to almost nothing.

Faced with the prospect of poverty, Frances sells what she can and ups and leaves the city, travelling with her son Malcolm (Lucas Hedges) and her cat to a friend’s apartment in Paris. There, she seems intent on whiling away what’s left of her inheritance before eventually killing herself when the money runs out.

Directed by Azazel Jacobs, French Exit is undoubtedly a polarising film. There’s no question this movie won’t be for everyone, with it’s slow pace, it’s ad hoc indulgence in the surreal and strange, and it’s Wes Anderson-esque humor.

At the same time, however, for every viewer who can’t stand it’s style, they’ll be another so in love with it as to forgive the storytelling flaws in favour of what is a cohesive and engaging vibe.

The most impressive thing about this film is without a doubt Pfeiffer’s performance. Acerbic, antagonistic, utterly classy, and truly aloof, Pfeiffer’s Frances Price is a blend of drug-addled swaying a

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la Jack Sparrow, Miranda Priestly-esque one liners, and a wardrobe that screams colour blocked French Fashion Week haul.

It’s a character one could be utterly obsessed with, and it is elevated by a performance from Pfeiffer that screams her talent from the rooftop–one that makes the Oscar snub a truly abhorrent occurrence.

Hedges performs admirably too, bringing an disquieting strangeness, stillness and acceptance to his character that counterbalances Frances’ wilder impulses. The rest of the cast then starts to take on less complex, more one-dimensional characters–Madame Reynard (Valerie Mahaffey) is the overbearing, lonely widower, Madeleine (Danielle Macdonald) is the strange, street urchin medium, and Susan (Imogen Poots) is the commitment-seeking adorer of Malcolm. Alas, all of their performances are entirely outstripped and overshadowed by Pfeiffer’s, for better or worse.

There’s a peculiar and intriguing colouring to the picture, and sense of cinematography, that almost begins to mimic some of Wes Anderson’s pieces.

That’s not a bad thing, because while the first 40 minutes of the film are relatively standard storywise, the back half of the

picture truly takes on an absurdist lens–a talking cat, and odd bunch dynamic in the flat, and the final stroll from Frances, all have Anderson-esque overtones. It is also an engagingly funny film, and there are genuine laugh out loud moments strewn throughout.

This isn’t a movie for everyone, but for those with the taste for great scriptwriting, a showstopping performance from

Michelle Pfeiffer, and slightly absurdist and witty comedy, this could be the movie of the year. French Exit is unapologetically niche, but undeniably a gorgeous, hilarious and engaging piece of cinema.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

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FILM

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

with JACOB RICHARDSON

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Godzilla Vs Kong – 2 Stars Giant monsters fighting each other is let down by the hamfisted human stories interspersed throughout lene Andrews (Rebecca Hall) is a scientist in charge of working with King Kong.

They have him trapped on his island for his own safety, afraid that when Godzilla discovers there is another Titan on Earth, he will rip Kong to shreds.

Nathan Lind (Alexander Skarsgard), at the behest of an evil conglomerate led by Walter Simmons (Demian Bichir), convinces Ilene to bring Kong to Antarctica in pursuit of the Hollow Earth–a cavernous, monster-filled space in the middle of our Earth where Kong came from.

Their movement attracts the wrong kind of attention however, and it puts Godzilla on their tails. As Godzilla and Kong duke it out in the ocean, Madison Russell (Millie Bobby Brown), Bernie Hayes (Brian Tyree Henry) and Josh Valentine (Julian Dennison) are hot on the trail of a tech creation in Hong Kong– Mecha Godzilla is here, and draws the ire and rampage of both Titans.

The easiest thing to cover off about Godzilla vs Kong is what it does well–which is exactly what it says on the cover. The handful of fights between Godzilla and Kong in this film are great; giant spectacles that feel bodily, destructive and brutal.

There’s a lot of fun to be had despite the shaky physics, the ridiculous workarounds

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to make Kong remotely a match for Godzilla, and the seemingly constantly shifting size. When these guys duke it out, it feels visceral, and you’re sitting up in your seat loving every second.

It’s a shame, then, that this movie takes 40 minutes to get to any of that. The craziest thing about this film is how insistent they are on slogging through the most laborious plotting and workarounds to get these two Titans to fight one another.

It feels like someone should have sat down with them at the start and just said “No one cares–make the monkey fight the lizard”. Instead, we get endless exposition about another evil tech company, massive logic leaps, a ridiculous C-plot around the Hollow Earth theory, and ever more garbage dumped on us. You’re slogging for most of the movie through something that, without the monster fights, would be unwatchable.

Then you’ve got the people. This franchise has always struggled with the human element of these stories–ever since the 2014 Godzilla. This film is another level though.

We don’t care one ounce about any of the characters here. Dennison is unwatchable, Tyree Henry is laden with one of the shittiest characters ever written (by someone who maybe once heard at a great distance what a podcast is).

Millie Bobby Brown eviscerates any acting bonafides her time on Stranger Things gave her, Eiza Gonzalez does nothing with the most cliche character of the film, and even Alexander Skarsgaard is phoning it in here. Only Rebecca Hall brings any credibility to her role, but then again it could just be that she seems competent when compared to an entire cast that seems to be coasting through in the lowest gear just for the paycheck.

Nothing can save this actioner from the bland betrayal of its human elements– not even these two Titans ripping each other apart. Godzilla Vs Kong is a disappointing romp.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

26 | APRIL - MAY 2021

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Support for those hit by floods HEN the Central Coast region was devastated by floods recently, the Salvos were in the thick of the action giving out vital support to people going through the worst time of their lives.

We all saw the heartbreaking scenes of people who lost everything as the terrifying Hawkesbury in flood ravaged the region.

And the Tuggerah Lakes flooded again, inundating areas still recovering from the February 2020 devastation.

But, when the waters went down and the media spotlight moved on, people were left without hope, looking for an answer.

As usual, the Salvation team was there to take up the challenge of helping people in dire need.

The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams supported evacuees and first responders by serving more than 3500 meals at evacuation centres.

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The Gosford team packed hampers for delivery to the Hawkesbury River north of Sydney for NSW SES teams to deliver by boat to families cut off by floodwaters.

Major David Collinson, Salvos Public Relations Secretary for NSW, visited flood-affected areas and some people stuck in their homes or unable to get home.

“There is a lot of devastation as you drive to different places. You see cars on the side of the road that have obviously been flooded. And there are things floating down the river that shouldn’t be in the river! But the communities are holding together really well – Aussies supporting Aussies,” Major Collinson said.

More than 60 food and supply hampers were provided to those isolated and affected by the floods around the Spencer township alone.

David Collison helps a local affected by floods.

Volunteers needed for Salvos Red Shield Appeal HE Salvation Army is calling on the local community to volunteer with the annual Red Shield Appeal as they seek to recruit 10,000 collectors across the Central Coast.

Now in its 56th year, The Red Shield Appeal is The Salvos flagship fundraising appeal which aims to raise $7M to fund over 2000 centres and services across Australia.

In Central Coast The Salvos are aiming to raise $133 000, with funds raised locally staying local.

After the devastating impact of COVID-19 in 2020, The Salvos are seeing some of the greatest need in their history, making this year’s Red Shield Appeal vitally important.

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The Salvos need community members to volunteer for the Red Shield Appeal this May in their local area, where all local funds raised will stay in the community.

“The community in the Central Coast have always faithfully backed The Salvos, and this year we need people to volunteer and raise funds to ensure that we can continue the work in the community for years to come,” says Danielle Saines.

Money raised locally this year will help enable the continuation of community programs including the Dooralong transformation centre. Dooralong Transformation Centre is Australia’s largest drug, alcohol and gambling rehabilitation program. Based on the Central Coast, Dooralong provides resi-

dential support services in a drug-free environment to those suffering from addiction.

Donations will also support local Salvation Army Disaster Recovery and Emergency Services.

The Salvos are also in need in-person volunteers to collect at local shopping centres and roadside collection points, for this year’s Red Shield Appeal to collect in the community. To volunteer in-person, contact Danielle at 0435 967 885 or visit www.volunteer. salvos.org.au Last year, The Salvos across Australia provided over one million occasions of care to those in need, supported more than 40,000 people experiencing homelessness, distributed 1.5 million meals through our

homelessness services, gave over 43,000 occasions of care to those experiencing family and domestic violence, and distributed almost $100M worth of financial assistance to people doing it tough.* Danielle Saines says: “The Salvos cannot do what we do without the generosity of the public in our community. If you have the means, please consider donating to the Red Shield Appeal or become a volunteer this year. Your generosity and support will help us to leave no one in need.”

To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

An end to homelessness is achievable, and the Salvos will continue to live and breathe this mission in our work with individuals and families experiencing hardship and crisis in communities across Australia.

We are strongly committed to walking alongside people in need, providing vital support to overcome crisis and see a pathway to life transformation. By contributing to the Red Shield Appeal, you can support the ongoing work of The Salvation Army in the face of this crisis.

Together, we can help end homelessness.

COMMITMENT TO RECONCILIATION The Salvation Army acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to elders both past and present. Our vision for reconciliation is to be a faith movement committed to equity, freedom and the righting of injustice.

SALVATIONARMY.ORG.AU To find out more please contact Major David Collinson - PR Secretary or Greg Donovan – Relationship Manager or email PRNSWACT@salvationarmy.org.au

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

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“ I NEVER THOUGHT I’D BE HOMELESS.” Like many of us, Megan* never thought it would happen to her – she never imagined she would need to escape a violent relationship; she never imagined her own family would turn their backs on her; she never imagined she and her daughter would become homeless and have to live out of their car.

Right now, there are thousands of Australians like Megan* experiencing homelessness but going unnoticed. Couch surfing, living out of cars, staying in refuges or transitional housing and sleeping rough – they are often not represented in official statistics. In fact, for every person experiencing homelessness you can see, there are 13 more that you can’t see.

Together we can help stop the rise in homelessness.

Visit salvationarmy.org.au or scan the QR code *Name changed for privacy

27

NEWS EXTRA

28 | APRIL - MAY 2021

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Council’s new CEO settles in Saints fan from the Gong has the golden touch Council CEO David Farmer was that guy.

Sort of.

“I was the fat guy with the big hit or the clever pass. Then I’d have a little rest,” he says.

He still is the impact player, particularly if the analogy is a willingness to take on responsibility, looking adversity in the eye, and doing what it takes to win.

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM E’S a a St George Illawarra tragic, he has been through the harrowing tempests of corrupt, sacked councils and he favors business and tourism enterprises: meet David Farmer, the new Central Coast Council CEO. Mr Farmer has had the ‘golden touch’ in saving not one, but TWO disgraced councils in his career of 30 plus years.

And he grew up as a self-confessed ‘bogan’ from ‘frugal origins’ in the surf and footy mad Illawarra region and has a history of taking in charge of basket cases.

He was announced at a video linkup

by Administrator Dick Persson who said Mr Farmer’s appointment was the most important decision he would make during his time trying to work out the shambles that is Central Coast Council 2021.

A total of 29 people considered with just three interviewed.

David Farmer is currently CEO of Ipswich Council, a successful enterprise of similar size to the Central Coast version and an area going through the same throes of rapid growth. It was also sacked by the State Govt.

In fact, Council’s new boss has twice worked as the chief executive after a council was sacked; first in Wollongong in 2008 and then in Ipswich.

Mr Farmer said rebuilding ratepayers’ shattered trust in Council would be his most important challenge. He also said the trust and morale of staff also needed to be rebuilt after such a difficult time.

Before Wollongong, Mr Farmer was CEO of Cairns City Council for more than six years, from October 2000 until May 2007. He was involved in the development of the famous Cairns Esplanade, considered to be the best public tourist development ever.

Mr Farmer was in the top job at Wollongong council for 11 years before being ‘headhunted’ for the Ipswich challenge.

Wollongong Mayor Cr Gordon Bradbery said he was not surprised Mr Farmer had been “headhunted” by Ipswich Council because he was suited to the challenge of repairing the finances and reputation of the council.

“In the time I have worked with Mr Farmer, he has been an exemplary person and his skills and intelligence has been the subject of my admiration,” he said.

“The council has been fortunate to have him lead it.”

Mr Farmer started in the role in June 2007, a few months after the council offices had been raided by the Independent Commission Against Corruption and before the February 2008 public hearing that led to the dismissal of the council, the appointment of administrators and made headlines around the world.

He then worked with administrators and then elected councillors to rebuild the organisation’s governance, finances and service delivery capability.

“I had a rocky start but also a deeply satisfying journey at Wollongong,” Mr Farmer said.

“Ultimately success is a function of a team effort, and would like to pay my respects to the councillors I have worked with over the period and also to thank the 1000-plus staff at Wollongong City Council who make it happen every day.”

Mr Farmer’s appointment came after all Ipswich city councillors were sacked and an administrator put in place after damning allegations of corrupt behavior by several Ipswich councillors and executives spanning decades were revealed.

The former chief executive officer of Ipswich City Council and three others plead

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The hospital pass

David Farmer.

guilty to corruption charges in the district court in Brisbane following an investigation by the Crime and Corruption Commission.

“There were definitely some similarities in Ipswich, most importantly the need to restore public confidence and trust,” Mr Farmer said.

“I wanted a role where I could bring my skills to bear on something significant.

The combination of governance and growth issues in Ipswich presented that challenge.”

Tourism and cultural support Mr Farmer’s involvement in major, progressive tourist areas such as Cairns and Mudgee bodes well for the Coast’s booming tourist industry.

“Some of the major strategic and economic activities that occured during my time in the role at Wollongong included the West Dapto Urban Release area, the growth of the city’s evening economy and developments in cultural planning.”

“We saw a huge shift in the Wollongong’s nightlife over the past decade with many new small bars, restaurants and cafes opening up.

Mr Farmer said Wollongong City Council was dismissed in 2008 after a public meeting.

He said the incoming Wollongong council after 2008 had to work to restore confidence from the community.

“There were definitely some similarities in Ipswich, most importantly the need to restore public confidence and trust,” Mr Farmer said.

Mr Farmer said that in both Cairns and Wollongong he had worked on significant projects to restore identity to the cities.

“If I am to look back at my 11 years at Wollongong, there are some key projects I’m particularly proud of,” he said.

“The Blue Mile, a city foreshore project similar to the Cairns Esplanade — which I also worked on — and Grand Pacific Walk are two of them,” he said.

PROFILE OF DAVID FARMER IN IPSWICH: I found this excellent profile of Mr Farmer on the Ipswich First web site: ‘There’s a personality player in most good school rugby league teams, often a big guy who to the cheers of the crowd breaks the line and sets up scoring opportunities for his mates.

He’s also the guy who’s happy to take a few hits, to set an example, to ensure those around him are as committed to the cause as he is.

As a teenager, self-confessed “bogan from Wollongong” and now Ipswich City

In his professional life, Mr Farmer has taken on some big challenges. To continue the football metaphor, he’s taken what others might have seen as a hospital pass and turned it into a scoring opportunity.

As a 19-year-old accounting cadet, he pioneered the introduction of electronic spreadsheets for the equivalent “I come from a frugal upbringing,” he recalls.

“My dad was a manager in a large factory, he was involved in rugby league, and we had greyhounds in our backyard. I remember a time when I got to try Sustagen. Just once though, because dad had gotten a hold of some, and it was for the dogs.

“He was a successful man. He was reasonably high up the food chain at work for a tradesman, and the dogs held all sorts of track records around the place.”

“

I wanted a role where I could bring my skills to bear on something significant.”

– David Farmer Like his father, Mr Farmer – the junior version – also delighted in success. At school, he was among a group of high achievers. Some have gone on to manage high-end financial institutions. Others have done well in other areas.

The electronic spreadsheets, a 1980s corporate version of Excel, gave Mr Farmer and the team around him an opportunity to point out the value of public electricity assets which amounted to billions of dollars.

It resulted in asset sales which has funded new infrastructure like rail lines and roads in NSW. “There were thousands of sets of fingers in it over 40 years, but I was pleased to be at the front end of it all,” Mr Farmer says.

A move to councils He moved to Wollongong City Council where a couple of years managing budgets led to the perfect role to set up a corporate planning division. He became the corporate planner.

The skillset transferred to Cairns City Council, where he was strategic planner in the mid-1990s. The big win during that time, was raising enough money from the community to turn the city’s old courthouse into a public art gallery.

He sat through a merger of Cairns and Mulgrave councils, before taking a holiday and a punt. The holiday was a backpacking tour of Europe for three months. The punt was with a group of mates who wanted to make it rich in the wealth management game.

“They ended up making millions, but I wasn’t patient enough to wait,” he says.

Instead, he took a role as deputy CEO at Mudgee Council, a country area noted for its coal mining, good wine, hobby farms and tourism.

The boss moved on, and Mr Farmer found himself at the helm. That was, until he moved back to Cairns where he worked with Kevin Byrne, a strong-willed mayor and well-known businessman.

It was a period of considerable change for the tourism mecca.

Mr Farmer has three boys, aged 16, 19 and 21, “a couple bigger than me”. Back then, they were the ideal inspiration for a world-class playground which was built along the Cairns Esplanade.

The redevelopment of the foreshore featured a massive lagoon, not dissimilar to Ipswich’s own Orion Lagoon.

Like the art gallery project 10 years earlier, the people of the city embraced the project. Council staff volunteered time to show others around, and tourists had yet another reason to visit the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Almost too close to home Mr Farmer was in the far north from 2000-2007, until his hometown came calling.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) had launched an inquiry, later dubbed by the media as a “sex-for-development scandal” which resulted in 11 arrests and more than 100 charges.

Sex and money were being used as bribes. The city was broke, and administrators were wheeled in to replace a sacked council.

Sound familiar?

“Ipswich is a little bit different. It’s been a slow drip of arrests, charges, and now some convictions,” he said.

“Wollongong was my hometown, so you have roots which dig deep into the community, and you have a spiderweb of connections, which means you feel you own the issues.

“Also, I was in my mid-40s, in the prime of my career. I had a bit more to lose, and I really wasn’t sure what to do. This stuff was unprecedented. The staff were devastated. It was 16 pages every day in the local newspaper.

“But you have to keep your head, stay confident, and remain calm. You slowly build a team around you and work out how to save money and rebuild the place.”

Returning the council to elected representatives after three years of administration remains one of Mr Farmer’s proudest achievements.

The Ipswich challenge Now, in Ipswich, anybody might be forgiven for thinking Mr Farmer is a glutton for punishment. But he doesn’t see it that way.

“I wanted a substantial, meaningful role that I knew might be difficult,” he says.

Improvements will become evident in a series of governance systems and processes that show Ipswich City Council is at a better level, he says.

On weekends, Mr Farmer can be seen zipping around the inner suburbs of Brisbane on his Vespa, taking time out to read a good book or cheer on his beloved St George-Illawarra Dragons.

During the week, it’s back to the challenge of turning the operations of a council around.

How long will it take?

“I don’t know,” he says. “Three months, four months, five months. I’d like to see some real progress, then you start to build momentum.”

However long, he says he’s in for the long haul.’

www.coastba.com.au

CROSSWORDS/GAMES Solutions page 30

APRIL - MAY 2021 |

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CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Point on the earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake 6. The man who invented the cube that became a world hit, Hungarian designer, Erno ...

9. First person to circumnavigate the world in a balloon, ... Fossett 10. New York World Series baseball team 11. China's ... Zedong 12. West African republic with Conakry as its capital and chief Atlantic port 13. Sweet sparkling wine from the Piedmont area of northern Italy 15. Soviet statesman, ... Gorbachev 16. Wave-riding 18. Geothermal springs 20. Moving ice mass (Aletsch is Europe's largest) 21. US president's country home, ... David 23. London monument that stands close to the site of the Tyburn gallows, ... Arch 24. Flightless Australian bird 27. An ancient Greek one would have competed naked!

28. UAE sheikhdom, Abu ...

29. Tennis champion, Monica ...

30. Jazz legend, Duke ...

DOWN 1. English racing town or sort of salts used as a purgative 2. Fast and furious sport involving a puck (3,6) 3. Florida swamp region 4. World champion ice dancers, Jayne ... and Christopher Dean 5. Paris boulevard leading to the Arc de Triomphe, Champs ...

6. Cricket scores 7. Dutch word for 'farmers' used to denote Afrikaans-speaking South Africans 8. American statesman noted for his efforts in establishing a cease-fire in Vietnam in 1973, Henry ...

14. Final battle at the end of the world or the movie starring Liv Tyler and Bruce Willis 15. CS Lewis Narnia tale, The ... Nephew (8'1) 17. Door-to-door (hawker) 19. Term for conjoined twins first used to describe Chang and Eng Bunker 20. Archangel generally depicted in art blowing the trumpet that will announce the second coming 22. Mausoleum Shah Jahan built to commemorate his wife, the Taj ...

25. Workers' body formed to safeguard salaries and conditions 26. Followers of Judaism

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GAMES SOLUTIONS

TRENDS

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Is love passing you by?

The bad habits that may be ruining your love life  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM F you worry about love passing you by or your relationship has gone down the drain, the answer may be your own bad habits.

A million songs have been written about lost loves, broken hearts and cheating, but the three minutes of self-pity never explain why it all happened in the first place.

You see, negative self-talk and low self-esteem are two of the most common challenges people face when it comes to finding and holding on to love.

Never fear, help is here–renowned hypnotherapist Mark Stephens could be the answer to your ‘tragic’ love life.

He has developed practical techniques to help anyone, single or in a couple, break the bad habits of the past and attract healthy love into their lives.

By harnessing the power of the subconscious and changing deeply entrenched thought patterns, Mark’s hypnosis treatments can help:

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1. Heal a broken heart.

2. Have a healthy, baggage-free relationship.

3. Attract the perfect partner.

Heal your own broken heart: “Having your heart broken can trigger a range of negative emotions, sometimes years later, that affect every part of your day-to-day life, including feelings of worthlessness, despair, self-blame, loneliness, insomnia, lack of appetite and binge eating,” Mark said.

“By accessing your subconscious, you can process your heartbreak, break those negative thoughts and behaviors and move on to live your best life.”

Mark’s top five tips for healing a broken heart are: 1. Crying: Do not underestimate the power of crying – it can be a powerful tool to help you process and move on from pain.

2. Gratitude: Practicing gratitude helps you appreciate what you have rather than focusing on what you don't have.

3. Self-love: Create positive experiences for yourself by changing the story running through your mind.

Tell yourself – ‘I am enough, I am worthy and I am loveable’.

4. Acceptance: Accepting the situation will help you let go of the pain attached to it.

5. Mindfulness: After a breakup, many people will continually

replay events over and again in their minds. Practicing mindfulness can help break this pattern, bringing your attention back to where you are and what you are doing in the present moment.

Leave your baggage at the door “Many people will unconsciously bring baggage from their last relationship into their new one, eroding it before it’s even properly begun. The key is to face the issues from your past, rather than fear them, look at them clearly and objectively and learn from them,” he said.

Mark’s top five tips for leaving your baggage at the door are: 1. Stop comparing: Break the habit of comparing your new relationship with your past one.

2. Clear emotional baggage: Learn to let go of your past so you can cre-

ate healthy space for your future.

3. Reset your thought patterns: Replace negative self-talk with positive self-reinforcement.

4. Invest in the relationship: Do this with acceptance, compassion and mutual support.

5. Meditate: Learn to think away the stress that causes those everyday conflicts.

Attract the right partner “The most important relationship is the one you have with yourself. Getting that relationship right first and not relying on others for your happiness is key to attracting the perfect partner”, Mark said.

Mark’s top three tips to attracting the right partner are: 1. Release the past: Through meditation and self-hypnosis, learn to let go of the negative emotions and

pain of previous relationships in order to create space for a healthy new one.

2. Positive self-talk: Be open to attracting a wonderful new partner and know that you deserve it.

3. Learn from past lessons: Rather than turning away from past relationship pain, look back objectively and consider what went wrong.

Use these insights to inform your choices about what you want in your next relationship and what don’t you want.

Mark has created a meditation and self-hypnosis app titled MindFree with hundreds of sessions to help users change negative thinking patterns, feel happier and make healthier choices. For more information on Mark’s hypnosis and meditation sessions visit www.mindfreeapp.com.

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2021 Central Coast Local Business Awards

Awards Partners:

Central Coast

The support of the Local Business Awards sponsors helps bring a special program for local business people to life.

We thank them for this.

Media partner

2021 Central Coast Local Business Awards Presentation Evening - Wednesday 21st July. www.thebusinessawards.com.au