Issue 173 of COAST Community News

DECEMBER 14, 2017

YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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ISSUE 173

Mayoral minute calls for a new strategic approach

The sky of Gosford City Centre dotted with cranes Photo: Justin Stanley

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entral Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, wants a new strategic approach to the future development of the Gosford CBD that includes traffic management, transport and parking.

To that end, she has prepared a Mayoral Minute for the consideration of her fellow Councillors when they have their final 2017 meeting on Monday, December 18.

“I will be putting up a Mayoral Minute this week to ask that the Gosford CBD Local Environmental Plan goes back out on exhibition, with the Development Control Plan (DCP), in keeping with the Administrator’s decisions in that area that the new Council should have the opportunity

to have a look at some of that planning,” Clr Smith said.

“What I would like to see is some good strategic planning that looks at the capacity of the CBD in terms of its population and activity capacities, and looks at the transport needs of the population,” she said.

“That may mean improving cycleway access, enouraging public transport providers to improve services, and strategies around how we manage traffic flow,” she said.

“I am very determined that the transport issues need to go hand in hand with what we do in the CBD, it needs to be a liveable and sustainable city.”

According to Clr Smith’s Mayoral Minute, on July 26, the Administrator resolved that Central Coast Council support an amended planning proposal (78/83/2015) called Gosford

City Centre Commercial Core Bonus Incentives.

Mayor Smith, in an interview with Coast Community News, said: “Council staff are still working on the DCP for the Gosford CBD.” According to her Mayoral Minute: “The final planning proposal varies to the guidance provided in the Gateway Determination issued by the Department of Planning and Environment, specifically with regards to the application of Clause 4.6 and the provision of solar access to public spaces.

“As part of the resolution of July 26, the Administrator also resolved: “That Council request that the Department of Planning and Environment and the Minister for Planning not finalise their consideration of the matter until the newlyelected Council considers

its position in relation to the proposed Gosford Development Control Plan amendments to be exhibited.”

According to Mayor Smith, Gosford is located in a narrow valley bordered by two hills, Rumbalara Reserve and Presidents Hill, and the waterbody, Brisbane Water.

She said Direction 1 in the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036 was to “grow Gosford City Centre as the region’s capital”.

Gosford City Centre is also part of the “Southern Growth Corridor” linking Somersby to Erina in the NSW Government’s Regional Plan for the Coast.

“Although these priorities provide significant opportunities for the renewal of Gosford City Centre, they also provide challenges,” she said.

“The future development of Gosford City Centre requires strategic planning with regards to traffic management, transport and parking.

“It also provides an opportunity for Gosford CBD to become a case study in sustainability that could demonstrate best practice initiatives in the growth of an urban centre,” Mayor Smith said.

Accordingly, when Council meets on December 18, Mayor Smith will formally move that Council re-exhibit the Planning Proposal Report -78/83/2015 Gosford City Centre Commercial Core Bonus Incentives, with the draft Development Control Plan when it is finalised, for exhibition.

If carried, the minute will also result in Council preparing and

also exhibiting, concurrent with the LEP and DCP: a Traffic, Transport and Parking Management Strategy for the Gosford City Centre; an Emergency Management Plan for the Gosford City Centre; a City Activation Strategy considering incorporating the use of public spaces and Council assets; and, a report outlining sustainability initiatives to be incorporated into the Gosford City Centre, including, but not limited to, initiatives and benchmarks related to water, energy, waste and open space.

It is the Mayor’s intention, if her Minute is supported, to conduct at least two community presentationinformation sessions on the proposals, including day and evening sessions.

Continued P3

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

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DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Liesl Tesch talks about the main issues in her electorate support,” she said.

“So we want somewhere where families are supported and where patients are supported that is safe, so initially we are pushing for beds in the hospital as it is developed, but the long term solution is a stand-alone facility.”

Ms Tesch said there were no adolescent mental health beds in the public system anywhere on the Central Coast.

“Our young people on the Coast have to go to Hornsby, Sydney or Newcastle,” she said.

“I know that youth mental health on the Coast is in dire need of additional support,” she said.

Ms Tesch also discussed her transition from school teacher to local MP, the challenges presented by her vast electorate, and other issues.

n the latest Central Coast Newspapers Video News interview, Member for Gosford, Ms Liesl Tesch, said that she is fighting for both palliative care beds and youth mental health beds in Gosford Hospital.

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“To have a lovely place to die is a really important thing that we are lacking in our local community,” she said.

“At the moment we are pressuring the NSW Government to even get palliative care beds in Gosford Hospital.

“We’ve got five at Woy Woy, but none in Wyong and none in Gosford.

“Doctors have to put their patients in under the guise of something else to have that

Ms Tesch said there were currently “zero” beds at Gosford Hospital dedicated to either palliative care or adolescent mental health.

Ms Tesch said they were two of her highest priorities as the Member for Gosford.

She said a stand-alone palliative care facility would be a “really important resource, especially with the voluntary assisted dying bill not in place”.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

The complete video news interview including closed captions with Ms Liesl Tesch can be seen at coastcommunitynews.com.au/video-news/

About us Central Coast Newspapers is a local, family owned business that publishes and distributes three Central Coast Newspapers every fortnight.

All staff are also locals and between them, the three papers cover the entire Central Coast.

Each paper focuses specifically on an area bound by postcodes as follows: Peninsula News Post Codes 2256 and 2257; Coast Community News Post Codes 2250,

2251, 2260; and Wyong Regional Chronicle Post Codes 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263.

Coast Community News coverage takes in parts of Gosford West, Gosford East and Wyong Central Coast Council Wards. It also takes in parts of the State seats of Gosford, Terrigal and The Entrance, and parts of the Federal seats of Robertson and Dobell All articles are sourced and dated so that readers will know when and where the information came from and where they can perhaps get

oast Community News and Crown and Andrews have a Christmas treat to give away consisting of four fun new games: Zoom Ball Hydro, Rubik’s Race, Shark Bite & Googly Eyes.

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Zoom Ball Hydro provides H2OH so much summer fun.

Hold on to one set of handles, while your friend holds the other, then open your arms quickly to send the Zoom Ball over to your friend.

You never know when the balloons will pop, and soak you in water, suitable for ages 8+.

Rubik’s Race is a fun new puzzle game that combines the strategy of the Rubik’s Cube with face-toface play.

Shark Bite is the awesome new game where you need to snag the fish to be the winner, but if the shark jumps, you’ll be his dinner.

Googly Eyes has the perfect

formula for family fun as it is a twist on the classic game where a team member draws an object and the others guess what it is but it includes vision-altering glasses.

For your chance to win the Crown and Andrews four-game pack, write your full name, address and daytime phone number on the

Publisher: Cec Bucello Graphic design: Justin Stanley

more information.

All articles are edited and given a heading and are often quite different from what was originally received.

Contributions are welcome and are preferred in email form, ideally with any relevant photographs attached.

Contributions must include the contributor’s name, address and phone numbers.

This is not for publication but name and suburb will be published and anonymous contributions will not be included.

back of an envelope and mail it to Coast Community News Crown and Andrews Competition, PO Box 1056, Gosford, NSW, 2250 before 5pm on Tuesday, January 16.

The winner of the Coast Community News Celtic Woman competition was Elaine Kelly of Narara.

Editor: Jackie Pearson Journalist: Dilon Luke

Assistant Journalist: Satria Dyer-Darmawan Suzy Taylor-Monzer Olivana Smith Lathouris

Ph: 4325 7369 Email: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Next Edition: Coast Community News 174 Deadline: January 16 Publication date: January 18 2250 - Bucketty, Calga, Central Mangrove, East Gosford, Erina, Erina Fair, Glenworth Valley, Gosford, Greengrove, Holgate, Kariong, Kulnura, Lisarow, Lower Mangrove, Mangrove Creek, Mangrove Mountain, Matcham, Mooney Mooney Creek, Mount White, Narara, Niagara Park, North Gosford, Peats Ridge, Point Clare, Point Frederick, Somersby, Springfield, Tascott, Ten Mile Hollow, Upper Mangrove, Wendoree Park, West Gosford, Wyoming 2251 - Avoca Beach, Bensville, Bouddi, Copacabana, Davistown, Green Point, Kincumber, MacMasters Beach, Picketts Valley, Saratoga, Yattalunga 2260 - Foresters Beach, Nortfh Avoca, Terrigal, Wamberal ISSN 1839-9045 - Print Post Approved - PP100001843 - Printed by New Age Printing

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Issue 130 November 21, 2017

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Edition 432

Edition 433

NOVEMBER 16, 2017

Petitions call for improved safety around Umina oval A petition with 400 signatures has been presented to Central Coast Council and a further 740 signatures calling for improved safety at Umina oval and surrounds.

The playground area and car parks at the end of Sydney Ave and Melbourne Ave are not safe places to be at night, according to petition organiser Ms Gabby Greyem.

Ms Greyem, who operates Jasmine Greens Kiosk which is located in the precinct, said she presented a similar 400-signature petition to Central Coast Council in May 2016.

Ms Greyem has also documented “crime and vandalism” she has experienced since taking the lease to operate the precinct kiosk in June 2014 and the list included over 170 incidents.

“The ongoing break-ins of houses, local businesses and vandalism of park facilities is not acceptable and must be stopped,” Ms Greyem said.

“The violent fights, abuse of alcohol and illicit substances by minors, leading to the hospitalisation of young people after serious fights, is alarming and a damning reflection of the lack of activities for teenagers on the Peninsula and the lack of Police resources to curb this dangerous behaviour,” she said.

“We want to see the Peninsula Recreation Precinct become a safe and crime-free zone as soon as possible.

“We appeal to Central Coast Council to apply for $1 million in Federal Safer Communities Funding.”

She said the money should be used for flood lighting, CCTV cameras, random security monitoring and to refit the old football club building as a youth centre.

Ms Greyem said solar-powered

flood lights lit every night of the year would deter youth crime and violence.

CCTV cameras, together with random visits by a security contractor, could be used to monitor activity and catch vandals and perpetrators of crime and violence.

She said the abandoned football club on Umina Oval could become a youth centre and venue for teenagers to socialise and connect with community services in a fun and inviting way, especially on weekends and in school holidays.

Other initiatives could also be explored “to provide real lasting solutions to youth antisocial behaviour in Umina”.

“We appeal to the NSW Government to: increase funding and resources for Woy Woy police; install a 24-hour police station in Umina CBD; and provide additional police patrols to the Peninsula and Umina,” Ms Greyem said.

“Sadly to date the police have advocated for a dark Peninsula Recreation Precinct,” she said.

“The community and I believe this has been the case for too long and it’s not working.

“We believe it’s time for lights at the skate park and in the precinct to be on every night, to make the park safe for everyone to use at night.

“The precinct is a site for regular night time violence, youth drug and alcohol abuse, fight clubs, car-burn-outs and bashings,” Ms Greyem said.

“Just this year, two young men have been seriously bashed in the precinct, both hospitalised in intensive care.

“I have witnessed on multiple occasions, hundreds of young people coming to the park, the car park at the end of Sydney Ave, and the beach at night to hang out.

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Long Jetty Street Festival draws huge crowds T

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“The application for the redevelopment of Sporties at Woy Woy was renotified following preliminary consultation with Water NSW,’ according to a statement issued by the Council “In accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulations, submissions will be received up until December 11.”

The application to build seniors housing on the corner of Brickwharf Rd and North Burge Rd, Woy Woy, saw around 80 residents attend a public meeting at the Woy Woy Sea Scouts Hall on Saturday, November 4.

The plans would see the current Sporties Bowling Club demolished and replaced with a three-building, four-storey complex including seniors’ housing, retail outlets, a new club and basement parking, built over three allotments.

Mr Ross Cochrane, from the recently-formed Save Woy Woy Waterfront group, said the meeting was attended by residents, club members, bowling club members and fishing club members.

The site owner and developer Mr Tony Altavilla also attended and addressed the meeting.

“We collected 55 signatures from people who wanted more information about the features of the proposed development that they could object to and we intend to give personal assistance to those people who want to write an objection to Central Coast Council,” Mr Cochrane said.

“At the meeting, we reemphasised that we are not antidevelopment.”

He said the ground was opposed only to a four-storey development on a site that would result in the loss of a community facility and the loss of the bowling greens.

“Residents who have concerns regarding the application can make a submission which will be considered and addressed as part of the assessment process,” according to a statement issued

by Central Coast Council chief Mr Brian Bell.

According to the Council, the land is zoned both R2 Low Density Residential and RE2 Private Recreation under Gosford Local Environmental Plan 2014.

One of the sites has a height limit of 8.5m and a maximum floor space ratio of 0.5:1.

The remaining two properties have no maximum height or

floor space ratio under Gosford Local Environmental Plan 2014, according to the statement.

Central Coast Council confirmed the sites were flood-affected.

“Flooding will be considered further as part of the assessment process,” the statement said.

Local residents have questioned the ownership of a triangular area of the existing bowling greens that is shown on maps, including plans from a 2014 development proposal, as public reserve.

However, the council claimed: “The three parcels are all owned by a private company, none of the properties are owned by Council or are Crown Land.”

The council did not explain why the land appeared in the 2014 site plans as public reserve.

“Everything is commercial-inconfidence but, on the original DA from 2014, it was shown as council land which is why the proposed retail boatshed style restaurants were drawn on an angle,” Mr Cochrane said.

“The land has come to be privately owned since then and we would like to know how that occurred,” he said.

SOURCE: Interview, 9 Nov 2017 Ross Cochrane, Save Woy Woy Waterfront Reporter: Jackie Pearson

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

Rubble on the site of the former Gosford Youth Centre on the corner of Baker St and Georgiana Terrace where more asbestos has been found Photo: Justin Stanley

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entral Coast’s Deputy Mayor, Clr Chris Holstein, wants Council staff to explain why the demolition of the Waterside development site that spans Gosford’s Baker St, Mann St and Georgiana Terrace has continued to be such a stop-start affair.

“We are asking questions now on why, on the old Spurbest site, there is a stop and start on the demolition,”

Clr Holstein said.

“I saw a couple of months ago they started to demolish and that has now stopped,” he said.

“I have asked the staff why.

“Is this stop and go a delaying tactic to put back doing something with the site?” he said.

Mr Cain King from CKDS Architectural services said the demolition delays were due to the discovery of asbestos.

“It hasn’t stopped, but we have needed to attend to WorkCover and Council

requirements to remove the asbestos, and that has been causing the delays,” Mr King said.

“It seems like each step uncovers more asbestos on the site and I would not expect WorkCover or Council to behave with any less than due diligence about its removal,” he said.

“The demolition work has uncovered more asbestos in the Froggys site and in the former youth centre building,” he said.

Continued P6

Central Coast voters put in a 65.7 per cent yes vote compared to a NSW average of just 57.8 per cent, making both the Central Coast federal electoral divisions of Dobell and Robertson among the more pro-equality electorates in the State.

The largest pro vote in the state of NSW was Sydney CBD, where 81 per cent of voters voted ‘yes’, while, in a surprising result, Parramatta

was among the electorates that recorded a 61 per cent ‘no’ vote.

All states and territories recorded a majority ‘yes’ response: 133 of the 150 Federal Electoral Divisions recorded a majority ‘yes’ response, and 17 of the 150 Federal Electoral Divisions recorded a majority ‘No’ response.

Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, indicated that she would respect the vote of her electorate, despite voting ’no’ in the survey.

In a twitter question with local SeaFM radio journalist, Emma Horn, Ms Wicks tweeted: “Hi Emma, you’re right, I voted no.

“After 10:00am, if the Australian people say yes, I will respect and reflect the decision and say yes to facilitate a bill

through Parliament,” Ms Wicks said.

“I’d ask others to respect the result too - whatever way Australia decides.”

The national participation rate was high, as nearly 8 out of 10 eligible Australians (79.5%) expressed their view.

The survey was undertaken by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) rather than the Electoral Commission, as it is officially a non binding survey rather than a binding plebiscite.

The link to the ABS website for the marriage survey is marriagesurvey.abs.gov.au/ results/ Source: Website, Nov 15 Australian Bureau of Statistics Twitter account, Lucy Wicks Dave Abrahams, data analysis

The Human Rainbow at the Terrigal Skillion

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

Edition 434

NOVEMBER 30, 2017

65.7 per cent of Central Coast voters put in a yes vote

he results are in on the Same Sex Marriage Survey, with 61 per cent of Australians voting to expand the definition of marriage to include two consenting adults, regardless of gender.

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27 November 2017

ISSUE 171

How Central Coast voted An artist's impression of the new club building - (inset) The public meeting to discuss the planning process for the redevelopment of Sporties

Sporties redevelopment submission deadline extended

THIS ISSUE contains 47 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info

www.centralcoastnews.net

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Demolition work constantly delayed by asbestos removal

The closing date for submissions on the Woy Woy Sporties redevelopment plans has been extended to December 10, Central Coast Council has announced.

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Issue 131 December 5, 2017

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13 November 2017

he highly anticipated Long Jetty Street Festival was back for its third instalment on Sunday, November 19.

With the huge amount of support received to date from the local community and beyond, the organisers saw the need to extend the site to cater for extra festival goers, with more than 15,000 people in attendance.

There was plenty more in store for families, music and art lovers, foodies, skaters and so on, thanks to the creative network of folk from across the Coast that helped bring the event together.

Invited back for the second year in a row by Central Coast Council, #LJSF17 was proud to be the closing event of the The Lakes Festival Program.

Music and culture were at the very heart of the Long Jetty Street Festival (LJSF), with the Six String Stage again curated by local music scenesters, Mountain Sounds Presents, and headlined by the Central Coast’s own golden girl, Kasey Chambers.

Other popular acts on the main stage

Crowds at the Street Festival Photo: Satria Dyer-Darmawan

were Sydney girl gang, Rackett, and locals, The Sea Gypsies, Ivy and Tiger Town.

Local acts who took to the Lake Stage on the day included Little Quirks, Chelsea Berman and The Fields Project.

The Art Precinct once again offered a collection

of some of the Coast’s freshest and eclectic art, live art expos and performances, and featured works from established and up and coming local talents.

It was curated by, Ms Bonnie Gray, and Mr Grant Molony, both of whom created unique

moveable pieces within the Art Precinct on the day.

Central Coast alumni, Mr Brent Smith, ‘Welcome to Long Jetty’ mural co-contributor, completed the wall mural, as part of the official LJSF programme.

Other artists included:

Mr Jack Barnes, Ms Grace Agnus Vuetaki, Ms Diem James and Mr Joel Picklum.

The Kidz Zone upped the ante this year with Dress-Up Attack’s entertainment booker, Ms Loren McHenry, curating the festivities.

The Kidz Zone

kept young Coasties entertained with an array of hands-on activities including interactive instrument activation, courtesy of Bangin’ Buses, a Musical Sensory Tree, A really big lakeside Slide, Blackboard Draw Disco, Sand Art and a hay bale Bowling Alley.

New attraction, the “Book Nook”, featured a variety of local guest readers, including Melbourne based author, Mr Andy White, who presented his children’s books, ‘My Daddy’s Got Tattoos’ and ‘My Mummy’s Got Tattoos’.

The 2017 Green Zone, sponsored by Long Jetty and Avoca Produce Swaps, saw produce swaps, workshops and information sessions with local backyard BeeKeepers, Worm Farmers, Permaculturists and green-thumbs.

Foodies were also well catered to on the day with stalls from Gourmet Gozleme, El Poco Loco, Hunter Ice Cream, Fritz’s Weiners, Diego’s Donuts, Viet Yum, Donnie Eats and an abundance of other stalls and displays to enjoy.

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

Source: Website, Nov 20 Long Jetty Street Festival Facebook page

Woy Woy police station may get officerin-charge It is unclear whether Woy Woy police station will get its own officer-in-charge and local police assigned to the station under “a new policing model for regional NSW”.

Under the changes, the Brisbane Water Local Area Command will be renamed Brisbane Water Police District.

Police Districts will have a district superintendent with varying spans of control, while each district will incorporate an officer-in-charge model for each of its police stations, according to an announcement by NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys.

Deputy Commissioner Worboys said regional and rural communities wanted to know who their local police were and importantly who was in charge of their police station.

“We will see a return to the officer-in-charge model throughout

regional police stations overseen by a commander at the district office,” he said.

“This model allows for a more dynamic and flexible approach to investigations, proactive operations and focussing on important community issues like domestic and family violence and mid-level drug supply.

“Police who live and work in regional towns are often heavily involved in the local community.

“Their job is enhanced by being part of that community.”

Deputy Commissioner Worboys said he would detail local arrangements in each of the new Police Districts as they commence under the new structure.

Peninsula News has requested further information about how the new policing model will affect the Peninsula.

SOURCE: Media release, 23 Nov 2017 Gary Worboys, NSW Police

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ISSUE 172

Prime Minister inspects almost-complete Taxation Office P The land on the corner of Veron Rd and Hillview St, Woy Woy

Nursing home refusal to be reviewed A proposal to build a nursing home in Hillview St, Woy Woy, has been revived, with an application being submitted for the review of the Council’s previous refusal.

Central Coast Council refused the $27.8 million application that sought to modify a development approved over a decade ago.

Following a Land and Environment Court hearing in 2006, an application was approved in 2007 for a 37-unit seniors living development but the new “amended” proposal was for a 160bed aged care facility.

Council refused the latest application on the basis that it was not substantially the same development that had originally been approved and modified.

“The proposal involves radical transformation from that

approved,” an assessment report prepared by Council staff stated.

On November 22, three months after the refusal of the application, community members who wrote submissions received notification that Council had received an application “to review the determination of refusal” of the proposal.

“The applicant has submitted additional information aimed at addressing the previous reasons for refusal,” the letter stated.

Submissions can be made on the proposal from Thursday, November 30, until Thursday, December 21.

The application for the review was made by planning consultant Doug Sneddon Planning Pty Ltd under Section 82A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act which enables the applicant to ask for a review of Council’s “determination of

refusal to the proposed Section 96 Amendment – Building Modifications to Enable Use as Residential Care Facility and Section 96AB Building Modifications to Enable Use as Residential Care Facility”.

“If your submission is an objection, any grounds of objection must be clearly stated and should not include references of a personal nature,” the letter stated.

Although the letter stated the additional information would be available online it could not be accessed by Peninsula News at the time of going to press.

As previously reported in Peninsula News, the site of the proposed development includes a conservation zone for a gazetted Ecologically Endangered Community of Umina Coastal Sandplain Woodland.

SOURCE: Letter, 22 Nov 2017 K Common, Central Coast Council

rime Minister Malcolm Turnbull visited Gosford on Wednesday, November 29, to inspect progress on the Gosford ATO building and to meet with local business owners who have successfully expanded into the international market through the Coalition Government’s Free Trade Agreement with China.

West Gosford bedding manufacturer, Bambi Enterprises, was the Prime Minister’s first stop, where he was joined by Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks.

Mr Turnbull and Ms Wicks made the trip to West Gosford to meet with the local family behind Bambi Enterprises, the Witneys, tour their factory, and congratulate them on their successful deal with Chinese eCommerce giant, JD.com.

Through Bambi, Mr and Ms Peter and Jan Witney supply a range of luxury and natural fibre products to some of Australia’s leading retailers including Snooze, Harvey Norman and 40 Winks.

It is understood the Witneys had been in negotiations with JD.com for some time, having hosted a delegation from the Fortune Global 500 online retailer earlier in November.

Since that meeting, JD.com has ordered 1,500 quilts from Bambi and the Witneys have set their sights on further expansion into the Asian market.

Peter and Jan began Bambi

Above: office space on the first level of the new ATO building in Gosford.

Below: Prime Minister Turnbull and Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, pose for a photograph with an ATO employee

35 years ago, making seat covers in their garage in Tascott, and have since grown from strength to strength, employing over 30 people at their factory to deliver their luxury line of eco products, and are already planning to expand both their premises and their staff numbers.

“The Prime Minister has joined me here in Gosford today to talk about the importance of local jobs here on the Central Coast,” Ms Wicks said.

“People in my electorate always talk to me about the importance of local jobs, and we know this because one of our core commitments here on the Central Coast was the delivery of 600 new jobs, and today, the Prime Minister and I will meet some of these first

new employees.

“This is a fantastic example of how the Coalition has delivered on every single one of our commitments to the people here on the Central Coast,” Ms Wicks continued.

“But we know that at the end of the day, business creates jobs, and that is why fantastic local businesses like Bambi, and families like Jan and Peter’s, are so important.

“The Witneys are an example of how the Coalition’s policies can enable small businesses to grow to create more jobs and new opportunities right here on the Central Coast,” Ms Wicks said.

The Prime Minister then joined Ms Wicks at the new Australian Taxation Office building in Gosford, to meet

with new employees from the Coalition Government’s promised 600 new jobs to boost the Central Coast region.

“Lucy Wicks is a tireless advocate for the Central Coast, and together we are working to create jobs and grow the local economy.

“This new ATO facility is a vital part of that plan,” the Prime Minister said.

“Our policies are designed to get more people into work in this region, and put more money back into people’s pockets.”

Ms Wicks and Mr Turnbull met with the first group of recruits already in the building, with more staff starting in the coming weeks, while the bulk of new jobs will be flowing into Gosford throughout 2018.

“We are now seeing a real game changer for Gosford come to life, delivering opportunities for locals to be able to both live and work in the best region in Australia,” Ms Wicks said.

“These 600 jobs for the region will have a significant flow-on impact within the community, which is great news for local businesses like the many cafes that are just a short walk away in Gosford CBD. “We’ve also seen a boost of over $7.5 million dollars into the local economy, with most of the construction being done by local contractors,” Ms Wicks concluded.

Source: Press conferences, Nov 29 Malcolm Turnbull and Lucy Wicks, West Gosford Dilon Luke, journalist

THIS ISSUE contains 52 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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

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Council aims to change rail facility location to Warnervale despite key contract being let T

ransport for NSW will receive a letter from Central Coast Council requesting that the site of the rail maintenance facility for the Central Coast be changed from Kangy Angy to Warnervale.

However, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, said work on the facility at Kangy Angy would begin in early 2018 to prepare for the arrival of the state-of-the-art $2.3 billion New Intercity Fleet.

“We have awarded a key contract for the detailed design and construction of the new maintenance facility to service trains at Kangy Angy,” Mr MacDonald said.

“Infrastructure and property group, John Holland, will now begin pre-construction activities, with major construction expected to start early in 2018.”

“The project is expected to generate 300 jobs on the Central Coast, including local apprenticeships, during construction, and 200 jobs ongoing, once in

operation.”

In 2014, a Transport NSW consultant report recommended that land adjacent to Link Rd, Warnervale, was the ideal site for the facility instead of the current location at Kangy Angy.

Mayor Jane Smith said Council was supportive of a rail maintenance facility for the local jobs that it would create, but wanted to ensure that it was in the right location on the Central Coast.

“Warnervale is where the growth on the Coast

Flood prone land under water at Kangy Angy Ms Susan Zaranja said will be, where there is the space and industrial she believed the recentlyCouncillors land to accommodate elected a facility of this size and had been mandated to scale,” Mayor Jane Smith seriously consider the will of the electorate. said.

She said to have “The State Government has changed its mind on transparency of operation other key issues for the within Council was both State, and we are asking laudable and essential. for them to make the right With that in mind, she decision for the Central said she believed the Coast,” she said. community considered Two members of the it essential that the new Kangy Angy Residents’ Central Coast Council Action Group (KARAG) review the decisions addressed the Council of the previous Wyong meeting on November 27, Council, and called the in favour of the Mayoral selection of Kangy Angy for the proposed NSW Minute.

Government inter-city fleet rail maintenance facility a “hot spot” worthy of review.

She said the selection of Kangy Angy was riddled “with inconsistencies and obfuscations from the word go” and was “not fit for purpose, compared with the eminent suitability of Warnervale”.

Issues including unsuitable topography, the volume of infill required, flooding issues, the need to build a $50 million bridge, difficulties in finding a solid base for the required footings,

along with the threat to rare and endangered species, and the close proximity to existing residents, made the site unsuitable.

“Warnervale has none of these problems, so it beggars belief why Kangy Angy has favour over Warnervale,” she said.

“There will undoubtedly be serious repercussions for you to solve if this project goes ahead.”

“Right a terrible wrong that has been committed.

“We need you to stand up and take the necessary steps against this disaster.

“If you achieve nothing else in your tenure, you will be worthy of our vote.”

Mr Alton Caldersmith said: “Most of the Councillors here tonight were not part of the Council when the decision was made to recommend to the railways that they use Kangy Angy as the location.”

Mr Caldersmith said that before Wyong Council intervention, Transport for NSW had decided the maintenance facility needed to be North of Wyong and South of Wyee.

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

Continued P4

11 December 2017

Sporties advertises for merger, as developer joins board Sporties at Woy Woy has advertised through Clubs NSW for expressions of interest from registered clubs to explore the possibility of an amalgamation or merger.

However, the move was not mentioned at the Woy Woy Bowling Club’s annual meeting held just days earlier, where a second director of redevelopment company Woy Woy Holdings, Mr Tony Altavilla, was elected to the Sporties board, joining Mr Rod Chippendale.

It was described as “a complete surprise to club members” by Woy Woy Men’s Bowling Club life member Mr Ken Dixon.

“The Expression of Interest wasn’t even raised at the meeting, which is mysterious,” Mr Dixon said.

He said Sporties had circulated a statement on the back of the expression of interest document from its general manager, drawing members’ attention to the decision made by the Board of Directors to advertise for expressions of interest.

The Clubs NSW Circular calling for expressions of interest stated: “In accordance with regulatory requirements, initial preference will be given to expressions of interest received from registered clubs located within a 50km radius.

“However, this does not preclude expressions of interest from registered clubs located outside the 50km radius also being taken into consideration,” it said.

“The club leases the 7500 square metre property from a private owner.

“It currently has 900 members and 26 gaming machines.

“The club is about to enter a period of renewal with the landlord awaiting approval for a DA for the club site.

“The DA will turn the club’s current premises into an over55’s residential development with provision for a club.

“The proposed club house will feature a bar, function room, restaurant with kitchen, outdoor dining, outdoor and indoor gaming and administration offices.

“It is also proposed to have an eight-rink, fully enclosed and climate controlled synthetic green and parking for 130 vehicles.

“Construction, pending DA approval, is expected to commence within the next 12 months and be completed within the next two years.

“During construction of the new clubhouse, there will be no ability to operate out of the Brick Wharf Rd site and as such, an ideal amalgamation partner will be able to accommodate the club’s members during this time.”

Clubs interested in expressing interest were told to contact Sporties at Woy Woy general manager Mr Kevin Jenkins.

The closing date for expressions of interest was Sunday, December 31.

The annual meeting saw the current chair Ms Di Elsom, deputy chair Ms Gaye Scarfe and treasurer Mr Rod Chippendale reelected unopposed and two other nominees, Mr Eddie Burgess and developer Mr Tony Altavilla, elected unopposed.

Two other directors, Mr Jim Cassidy and Mr John Hughes, were elected from the floor.

Mr Cassidy was a former president of the registered club and current chairman and life member of the Men’s Bowls Club.

Mr Hughes was also a former director of the registered club.

The bid for election by Mr Ross Cochrane was unsuccessful, missing out by just three votes.

SOURCES: Interviews, 7 Dec 2017 Ken Dixon, Woy Woy Men’s Bowling Club Ross Cochrane, Save Woy Woy Waterfront Amalgamation EOI Circular, 5 De 2017 Anthony Ball, Clubs NSW Reporter: Jackie Pearson

DECEMBER 14, 2017

YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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ISSUE 173

Mayoral minute calls for a new strategic approach Aerial view of development site

Planning failure used to justify non-compliance An application to build three townhouses that do not comply with planning guidelines is being justified on the basis that the council has not followed the guidelines “on numerous occasions”.

“It is clear that the numerical standards set out in the Development Control Plan have not been complied with on numerous occasions as there is strong demand for the availability of more affordable housing,” the application for the development in Augusta St, Umina, has stated.

“There is a lack of large sites and development is constrained to smaller sites where setback requirements are difficult to achieve with economic yield of dwellings.

“Consequently, the numerical standards may be viewed as overly restrictive for satisfactory medium density development to take place.

“It is therefore argued that the proposed development should be considered an acceptable proposal as it is in keeping with the Plan objectives.”

The application claimed that the council had recently approved similar non-complying developments on the same basis.

“Recently, the adjacent property (DA52076/2017) has been approved for a multi-unit development with similar design, setbacks and site cover.

“This application relied on previous precedents, where the setback standards were not complied with in the Umina and Woy Woy areas.”

The three townhouses, costing $700,000, would replace a single brick house.

The first townhouse would include a side entry on the ground floor, which would also accommodate the kitchen, dining, living, master bedroom, laundry, guest toilet and storage.

The first floor would include a lounge room, three bedrooms, linen and bathroom.

A ground floor courtyard would be accessed from the living room and the townhouse would also have two covered car parking spaces in a double garage.

The second townhouse would have one less bedroom, all three bedrooms would be located on the first floor and there would only be a single garage attached.

Townhouse number three would have the same four-bedroom layout and the first.

The proposed development, according to documents provided

in support of the application, does not comply with the Gosford Development Control Plan 2013 for ceiling heights and setbacks.

The 2.7 metre ceiling heights on the ground floor were described as a “minor departure” from the DCP. The setback variances are of between 25 per cent and 40 per cent.

The developer has justified the variations by stating: “The proposal is in keeping with the DCP setback objectives, the LEP zoning objectives and Gosford Affordable Housing Strategy 2005.

“The proposed development will make available affordable mediumdensity residential housing for the community.

“The proposed setbacks are the most suitable solutions to the existing site constraints.

“The proposal will rejuvenate the site and complement the desired form, orientation and scale of surrounding properties.”

The documents submitted to Central Coast Council to support the construction of the townhouses also argued the proposed development was compatible with the predominant existing and desired character of the locality.

SOURCE: Gosford DA Tracker, 7 Dec 2017 DA5346/2017, Central Coast Council

THIS ISSUE contains 48 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Caption Photo: Justin Stanley

entral Coast should have the opportunity Mayor, Jane Smith, to have a look at some of that wants a new planning,” Clr Smith said.

“What I would like to see is strategic approach to the future development some good strategic planning that looks at the capacity of the of the Gosford CBD CBD in terms of its population that includes traffic and activity capacities, and management, transport looks at the transport needs of and parking. the population,” she said.

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To that end, she has prepared a Mayoral Minute for the consideration of her fellow Councillors when they have their final 2017 meeting on Monday, December 18.

“I will be putting up a Mayoral Minute this week to ask that the Gosford CBD Local Environmental Plan goes back out on exhibition, with the Development Control Plan (DCP), in keeping with the Administrator’s decisions in that area that the new Council

“That may mean improving cycleway access, public transport providers to improve services, and strategies around how we manage traffic flow,” she said.

“I am very determined that the transport issues need to go hand in hand with what we do in the CBD, it needs to be a liveable and sustainable city.”

According to Clr Smith’s Mayoral Minute, on July 26, the Administrator resolved that Central Coast Council support an amended planning proposal

(78/83/2015) called, Gosford City Centre Commercial Core Bonus Incentives.”

Ms Smith, in an interview with Coast Community News, said: “Council staff are still working on the DCP for the Gosford CBD.” According to her Mayoral Minute: “The final planning proposal varies to the guidance provided in the Gateway Determination issued by the Department of Planning and Environment, specifically with regards to the application of Clause 4.6 and the provision of solar access to public spaces.

“As part of the resolution of July 26, the Administrator also resolved: “That Council request that the Department of Planning and Environment and the Minister for Planning not finalise their consideration of the matter until the newly-

elected Council considers its position in relation to the proposed Gosford Development Control Plan amendments to be exhibited.”

According to Clr Smith, Gosford is located in a narrow valley bordered by two hills, Rumbalara Reserve and Presidents Hill, and the waterbody, Brisbane Water.

She said Direction 1 in the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036 was to “grow Gosford City Centre as the region’s capital”.

Gosford City Centre is also part of the “Southern Growth Corridor” linking Somersby to Erina in the NSW Government’s Regional Plan for the Coast.

“Although these priorities provide significant opportunities for the renewal of Gosford City Centre, they also provide challenges,” she

said.

“The future development of Gosford City Centre requires strategic planning with regards to traffic management, transport and parking.

“It also provides an opportunity for Gosford CBD to become a case study in sustainability that could demonstrate best practice initiatives in the growth of an urban centre,” Clr Smith said.

Accordingly, when Council meets on December 18, Clr Smith will formally move that Council re-exhibit the Planning Proposal Report -78/83/2015 Gosford City Centre Commercial Core Bonus Incentives, with the draft Development Control Plan when it is finalised, for exhibition.

If carried, the minute will also result in Council preparing and

also exhibiting, concurrent with the LEP and DCP: a Traffic, Transport and Parking Management Strategy for the Gosford City Centre; an Emergency Management Plan for the Gosford City Centre; a City Activation Strategy considering incorporating the use of public spaces and Council assets; and, a report outlining sustainability initiatives to be incorporated into the Gosford City Centre, including, but not limited to, initiatives and benchmarks related to water, energy, waste and open space.

It is the Mayor’s intention, if her Minute is supported, to conduct at least two community presentationinformation sessions on the proposals, including day and evening sessions.

Continued P3

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

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

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Mayoral minute calls for a new strategic approach

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entral Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, wants a new strategic approach to the future development of the Gosford CBD that includes traffic management, transport and parking.

From P1 A resolution supporting the Mayoral Minute will also see Council invite the Coordinator General, Ms Lee Shearer, and the NSW Government Architect, to be active participants in the processes outlined above.

It is understood that Ms Shearer has had a preliminary meeting with Mayor Smith regarding the future of Gosford CBD. Prior to her election to Council, Mayor Smith, in her former role as CEO of the Community Environment Network, spoke against the proposed changes to matters including height limits, in the amended planning proposal for the CBD commercial core.

The proposal considered by the Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, and adopted with a proviso for the newlyelected Councillors to have the

Another view of the Gosford CBD skyline which could be changed by future development controls Photo: Justin Stanley

opportunity for input, would see a maximum building height of 99 metres in the commercial core of Gosford City, along with bonus floor space provisions, for a period of two years.

The proposal that was conditionally endorsed by Mr Reynolds, and which Mayor Smith proposes to be reexhibited, would see parts of the CBD currently zoned B4 Mixed Use, the blocks bounded by Henry Parry Dve, Donnison St, Dane Dve and Georgiana Tce, changed to B3

Commercial Core.

Similarly, the area currently zoned B4 Mixed Use on the blocks bounded by Erina St, Albany St, Donnison St and Henry Parry Dve, would also be rezoned to B3 Commercial Core.

Conversly, the area currently zoned B3 Commercial Core between the railway, Erina St, Henry Parry Dve and Faunce St would be rezoned to B4 Mixed Use. In December 2014, the former Gosford Council

considered a Gosford City Centre Statement of Strategic Intent that recommended the redefinition of the CBD’s commercial core to refocus it towards the waterfront and to introduce a new bonus incentives clause for the new commercial core.

The former council subsequently started to prepare a Voluntary Planning Agreements policy for the commercial core.

According to the staff report considered by Mr Reynolds in July, “The Planning Proposal is

a strategic land use planning response supporting the revitalisation of the Gosford Commercial Core.”

The staff report also recommended amending the Gosford LEP 2014 so that clause 5.6, relating to architectural roof features, would not apply to developments using the bonus incentives.

It would also include “overshadowing objectives and controls”, a limited time period for consents using the bonus, and a transition/

savings provision.

The new provisions would offer a bonus 74,000 square metre “pool” of floor space within the B3 commercial core.

The bonus floor space would be available to developments to enable them to exceed existing height and/or floor space development standards if they meet certain requirements including: a minimum street frontage of 40 metres; a maximum site area of 2,800 square metres; a maximum height of 99 metres AHD; design excellence; and, the provision of significant public benefit.

Due to public submissions, a requirement was to be included to allow for merit based assessment to ensure reasonable solar access to Kibble Park, Graham Park and Leagues Club Field, to be measured during the winter solstice.

Source: Interview, Dec 13 Jane Smith, Central Coast Council Agenda item 2.2, Dec 18 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting Agenda item 2.5, Jul 26 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting Jackie Pearson, journalist

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New regional library and a regional perfor

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t has been a big year for the Gosford CBD and Central Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, has hinted that two major civic projects may take big steps forward in 2018.

The ATO building has officially opened, Froggys has nearly been demolished, there are multiple cranes in the air over Gosford, and it has been officially declared the Capital of the Central Coast by the NSW Government.

The two major community projects that residents have been campaigning for decades to achieve, a new regional library and a regional performing arts centre, are also closer to fruition, according to Mayor Smith.

Mayor Smith has confirmed the resolution made by Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, for the preferred site of the regional library to be in the Parkside Building in Donnison St. “That was the resolution of the administrator, and that is what staff are currently working

The new Australian Taxation Office building near completion in December Photo: Justin Stanley

towards,” Mayor Smith said.

“Staff have been talking to Councillors about different options, but it is looking very promising and very exciting for that site.

“We want to open up that conversation with our community, and our proposals will be known early in the New

Year,” she said.

When asked about the status of the monies gathered over many years in the form of a levy on rates specifically to fund a regional library, Mayor Smith said: “The money is still there, and certainly in the conversation that staff have been having with Councillors, that funding is part

of the consideration.”

Mayor Smith said she had not heard any proposals that would see Regional Youth Support Services and other tenants currently occupying the Parkside building moved into the existing Gosford City Library on the other side of Donnison St.

“I haven’t seen any proposals or information about that at this stage,” she said.

Mayor Smith said plans for the library were “part of bigger conversation about the Gosford CBD.” In her former role as CEO of the Community Environment Network, Mayor Smith had

commented on the problems caused by land owners “land banking” in the Gosford CBD. That practice includes buying properties at deflated prices, processing development applications, but never activating projects, resulting in the longterm stagnation of the CBD,

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DECEMBER 14, 2017

ming arts centre are closer to fruition

Demolition site on the corner of Baker St and Georgiana Terrace Photo: Justin Stanley

while land owners simply wait until values inflate to on-sell their vacant lots or decrepit buildings.

Coast Community News asked Mayor Smith what she intended to do with Council’s “bank” of CBD property, particularly the site of the former Commercial Hotel next to the Gosford Council Chamber in Mann St, which was acquired to be

redeveloped as the regional library.

“It is my understanding the levy funds purchased The Broadwater Hotel site,” Mayor Smith said, undertaking to confirm that statement.

She also responded to questions about why $100,000 of capital was being spent on upgrades to the existing Gosford Library in 2017-18 if it

was to be replaced “I know there has been some recent work on the roof on the existing library, and in terms of the future of the building, I don’t believe there are any plans to get rid of the building,” she said.

The total capital allocated in the 2017-18 financial year for expenditure on “development of the regional library and

commercial area” was $614,870.

A total of $1.5 million has been allocated in the current Council operational plan to “design” the regional performing arts centre to be located in Gosford.

“I would expect there will be a report come to Council in February that recommends a site,” Mayor Smith said.

“It is not confirmed that it is going to go on the Gosford Leagues Club Park, there is some consideration of other sites,” she said.

“We are certainly looking at and talking to the St Hilliers Group about the remainder of their land,” she said, referring to the remainder of vacant land at the former Gosford Public School site, which was

originally promised to the community for use as an arts and recreation precinct.

“There has been no resolution but discussions are ongoing.

“Council is very conscious that we have commitments of state and federal funds towards that, so we are very keen to get it moving,” she said.

One of the major private developments that would shape the future of Gosford, the masterplan for the former Gosford Marketplace/ Kibbleplex, that was purchased from the former Gosford Council by owners of the Imperial Centre, the Lederer Group, has not progressed, according to Mayor Smith.

“As far as I am aware there is no movement on those proposals at this point,” she said, adding that Lederer’s plans for the site were contingent on the Development Control Plan and Local Environmental Plans yet to be determined by Council for the CBD. Source: Interview, Dec 12 Jane Smith, Central Coast Council Jackie Pearson, journalist

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DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Selection process for new Council CEO underway

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he process has commenced for the selection of a new CEO for Central Coast Council.

It is understood that the Interim CEO, appointed by former Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, will remain in the role until a replacement is found.

“He was only ever here as a temporary appointment,” said Mayor Jane Smith, who said Mr Bell’s experience and guidance had been invaluable during the first few months of

the newly-elected Council.

“We are starting the process for recruitment of a new CEO,” she said.

Mayor Smith said the timeframe for the appointment was not locked in, but outlined the steps involved.

“We have started the process to tender a recruitment organisation to assist with the process,” she said, adding that she hoped that initial step would be completed by the end of January.

There will then be a call for applicants, vetting of written applications, creation

of a selection panel and the resulting interview process.

“It may well take six months, but you’d think at least between three and six months, and then there may be a period where the successful applicant will have to give notice before they are able to start,” she said.

“I think it is just a case of determining where, as an organisation, we need to go,” she said when asked why the recruitment process appeared to have commenced ahead of schedule.

“It is no reflection on Brian,

he has been a fantastic asset, and at this point in the organisation…he has been the right person in the role at the right time.”

She said she did not believe Mr Bell would depart before the recruitment of the new CEO had been finalised.

“Brian Bell will leave as soon as we appoint the new CEO,” she said.

Source: Interview, Dec 13 Jane Smith, Central Coast Council

Mr Brian Bell

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Community Environment Network Upcoming events

Kangy Angy Rail Yards .....

The frog gets it....

2017 BAT Awards

In frog circles the Ourimbah Creek Floodplain is known as “Frog Central”.

CEN is pleased to honour the efforts of a number of individuals and groups that have contributed to making the Central Coast a better place.

Each year, CEN calls for nominations and gives out the BAT Awards - based around a cricket theme that reflects the need for us to “Be A Team”.

Rockpool Discovery Walks

The extremely rare Mahony’s Toadlet is just 20mm long and lives on the flood plain of Ourimbah Creek along with another rare and endangered frog, the Wallum Froglet.

L to R: CEN Chairman, John Asquith, Giselle Coates, John Andrews, Stephen Goodwin (MDA)

Our Awards presentation was held on 23 November with the 2017 BAT Award going to John Andrews for his long-term commitment to the retention of Peat Island and associated lands as public lands for community use. He successfully led the submission to the National Trust to have the Peat Island Lands listed on the NSW Heritage Register. He has also been a past president of the Australian Plants Society (Central Coast Branch) and Deputy President of the Mooney Cheero Point Progress Association.

We now know that both occur on the Transport for NSW Rail Facility Site. Both are protected by NSW and Commonwealth Laws but this has not saved them. Transport for NSW, are planning to obtain offset land with similar habitat as compensation for the loss of the Kangy Angy habitat.

However, the chances of them

Become a marine biologist by discovering our local rock platform animals. You’ll be amazed at how special these creatures really are! finding habitat with the frogs is almost zero. The building of the Rail Facility will mean the loss of the frogs. Recently, Professor Mahony (pictured) spoke to locals about the Toadlet, his last words before departing were “Save My Frog. “

Does a frog really matter?

Other Award recipients included: • Rookie of the Year - Kangy Angy Residents Action Group. The KARAG has fought to protect the important floodplain, wetlands and waterways of Ourimbah Creek from inappropriate development by Transport NSW. This development will see 2 threatened species heavily impacted. These frogs are extremely rare - consequently they may join the every increasing list of frog species that are disappearing.

• Best 12th Woman - Giselle Coates. Giselle retired after a 20 year career and took up the reins of coordinating and supporting the volunteers at Take 3. Giselle's organisational skills have kept the Take 3 boat on a steady course. Giselles's wisdom, warmth, passion and attention to detail have been invaluable. Her knowledge, experience and energy, fuelled by her commitment to conservation, are worthy of recognition for her contribution to Take3 and the community.

• Most Outstanding Community Group - Mountain Districts Association. MDA, together with local experts, produced a comprehensive report to review the Mangrove Mountain Golf Course landfill. It highlighted the many failures in the process and the policy and statutory failures that led to the current situation which threatens the water quality of the drinking water supply for the Central Coast. This was a sustained effort involving detailed investigation and work. This issue was highlighted on the 4 corners report on 7 August, 2017.

We thank all our members, supporters and friends for their efforts throughout the year. We wish you all a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season!

John Asquith, Chairman

Why does it matter if we lose one more species?.....

The analogy of rivets in an airplane wing was used by ecologists Paul and Anne Ehrlich to show the importance of biodiversity. You can remove a few rivets and the plane will still fly. As more rivets go missing, eventually the plane crashes. Compare this to the loss of species.

The problem is –nobody knows when you have removed too many?.... or which ones are the important ones to keep?

On the IUCN Red List, Australia is in the top 5 for extinction of animals and plant species, and the top 10 for endangered and threatened species.....Nothing to be proud of!

All walks take place at Bateau Bay rock platform • Fri, 6 Jan: 8-9 am • Sat, 7 Jan: 8-9 am • Thu, 12 Jan: 2-3 pm • Fri, 13 Jan: 3-4 pm • Sat, 14 Jan: 4-5 pm • Fri, 20 Jan: 8-9 am • Sat, 21 Jan: 9-10 am Cost: Adults - $7, Child / Conc - $5, Family $20 (2A, 2C)

Bookings are essential FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK - VISIT www.ccmdc.org.au

What’s On at the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre these school holidays! * Displays * Aquaria * Wet Touch Table * Craft * Plasters * Rockpool walks * Junior Marine Scientist Quiz * Audio Visual Room * Whale bones, Shark jaws & more !!

More info: www.ccmdc.org.au Open most days in the School holidays (after Xmas) from 10am-4pm (last admission 3pm)

Admission: • Adults $10, • Child / Conc $6, • Carers with Carers Card = Free if with client.

• Family (2A, 2C) $26 • Family (1A,2C) $16

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

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

www.cen.org.au

Ph: 4349 4756

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A Christmas message from Senator Deborah O’Neill Dear Coasties, My family and I want to wish you a cheerful Christmas and a wonderful break with the people you love.

I want to particularly thank our local volunteers, our firefighters, nurses, carers, surf lifesavers, retail workers and police officers who will be looking after us over the Christmas break to make sure our holiday is safe and relaxing.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Senator Deborah O’Neill, Senator for New South Wales Shadow Assistant Minister for Innovation Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health www.facebook.com/SenatorDebONeill Email: senator.o’neill@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Senator Deborah O’Neill, 4 Ilya Avenue, Erina 2250

PAGE 7

DECEMBER 14, 2017

PAGE 8

DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Development at Mount Penang questioned in Parliament reens Member of the NSW Legislative Council, Mr David Shoebridge, has asked questions in Parliament about the proposed subdivision and development of land within the Mount Penang Parklands precinct at Kariong.

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Mr Shoebridge asked the NSW Minister for Lands and Forestry, Mr Paul Toole, for clarification of the ownership of the 6,000 square metre-plus land proposed to be subdivided into eight Torrens Title lots and developed by Parklands Kariong Development Pty Ltd. “Is the development site Crown Land?”, Mr Shoebridge asked.

If the land is not Crown Land, Mr Shoebridge has asked the Minister to clarify when it was sold and to whom.

He has also asked the Minister to report on the price paid if the land was sold by the Crown.

Mr Shoebridge also wants the Government to explain whether or not the dedication of the land has been lifted, and if so, when.

The questions were due to be answered by the Minister no

later than December 21.

In a written statement, the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC) said: “The land is currently under contract to Parklands Kariong Development Pty Ltd, following exchange of contracts in September, 2016.”

CCRDC did not answer several other questions put to it by Coast Community News, including details about the purchase price.

A NSW Title Search shows the owner of the land to be CCRDC, with leases to an assortment of community organisations, not for profits and businesses.

Parklands Kariong Development Corporation Pty Ltd, according to information obtained from ASIC databases, was registered as a company in NSW in September, 2016, as an Australian Proprietary Company limited by shares.

At the time of registration, its principal place of business was the Platinum Building, suite 304, 4 Ilya Ave, Erina.

Current directors were listed as Mr Phillip Brand of Erina Heights, Mr Tim Gunasinghe of Erina, Mr Michael O’Brien of East Maitland and Mr John Stevens of Wamberal.

Mr David Brand of Erina

An aerial view of the Mount Penang site

Heights and Mr Phillip Brand of Erina Heights were listed as Company Secretaries.

Central Coast Council has confirmed that the December 2014 Draft Development Control Plan (DCP) covering the proposed subdivision and development at Mount Penang was finalised in December 2014 when it was incorporated into the Gosford DCP as Chapter 5.3.

Based on publicly available information, it is unclear how ownership of the Crown Land at Mount Penang was transferred to the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation.

According to the DCP that is still on the Council’s website as opposed to the draft on the CCRDC website, the

development of new facilities for a Juvenile Justice Centre in 1999 meant that the NSW Cabinet agreed to the formation of a Development Corporation to manage the re-development of the excess land after the building of the Frank Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre.

In September, 1998 the NSW Government announced an initiative for Mount Penang to provide the Central Coast with long term economic benefits and jobs.

The key elements included the annual flora festival, sporting facilities, environmentally sustainable infrastructure and services, gardens, restaurants and hightech internet and interactive computer facilities, permanent

gardens, as well as community, cultural and accommodation facilities to attract tourism; and a commercial base for the development, securing private sector investment and sponsorship.

In November, 1998, the Festival Development Corporation was officially created by Government Gazette Notice to achieve the objectives of the Growth Centre’s Act as the majority of the Mount Penang site was, by then, classified as a growth centre.

In September, 2010, the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC) replaced the Festival Development Corporation and charged with the responsibility of promoting, coordinating, managing and securing the orderly economic development of Mount Penang.

The CCRDC was at that time subject to the control of the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure.

The original DCP 144 – Mount Penang Festival Development Site was incorporated into the Gosford DCP 2013.

It was adopted by Gosford City Council on March 7.

Work undertaken in 2000 to prepare the Mount Penang DCP

represented the culmination of an urban design and planning process that involved stakeholder and public consultation, specialist studies, and market feasibilities, all of which has been revisited and updated as part of the final DCP dated December 2014.

The 2014 DCP took into account major changes to the site since 2000, “as well as reflecting a revision of the master plan for the Mount Penang site that has been informed by a servicing strategy, transport assessment and heritage review,” the Draft DCP said.

It was to be applied to all land zoned SP1 Special Activities Mount Penang Parklands, as designated on the zoning maps in Gosford Local Environmental Plan 2014 and its status has now been clarified by Central Coast Council.

Source: Hansard, Nov 16 David Shoebridge, NSW Legislative Council NSW Titles Search, Nov 16 Lot 10 DP1149050 Kariong ASIC Current and Historical Company Extract, Nov 17 Parklands Kariong Development Pty Ltd ACN : 614915687 Website, Dec 12 Central Coast Regional Development Corporation Jackie Pearson, journalist

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PAGE 9

DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Eden Hamilton - Age 11 - Chertsey Primary School

Emma Woolley - Age 12 - Gosford Public School

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Merry Christmas Central Coast LUCY WICKS MP Federal Member for Robertson

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

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PAGE 10 DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Call centre staff will be the largest group of ATO employees

C

lient engagement and call centre staff will be the two main groups of ATO employees to occupy the new Gosford waterfront tax office, according to Deputy Commissioner, Ms Sue Sinclair.

Ms Sinclair was in town for the Hello Gosford event.

“Basically it is called Hello Gosford, and we have run similar ones to these around various Australian states, and they have proved very popular,” she said.

“We invite the community, including tax agents, businesses and individuals to give them information about the taxation office, our services and an idea of how we can help them.

“It includes information for new small businesses, we offer a lot of support on digital services that we can showcase to make their lives easier,” she said.

Ms Sinclair said it was 2014 when the Federal Government announced it would build a new federal office in Gosford, with the ATO as lead agency.

She said the site was chosen due to proximity of transport

Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, speaking at the Hello Gosford event at the new Federal Government building in Gosford

and the opportunity to forge strong connections with the University of Newcastle.

“It fits the bill for us,” Ms Sinclair said of the new location.

She said 80 employees would be working out of the office before Christmas.

“In January, there will be a surge of people joining us,” she said of the New Year intake of 260 employees.

Another 115 will be due to start in May, after which another 150 jobs will be advertised.

“The majority of the people who started with us are

actually the experienced people from the ATO, many of whom live locally, but some have been drawn from Parramatta and other localities in Sydney,” she said.

The ATO’s Gosford workforce would be a mixture of full time, part time, casual and nonongoing employees.

“Even though next year we will be getting up to 600 people, there will be a continual churn, and opportunities for the local community with casual and part-time positions coming up all the time.

“It is a very modern office and we have a big reliance on

being very well connected with technology.

“We’ve got a very sophisticated tele-presence site which enables us to do direct communication with all of our offices nationally via tele presence.

“We also have flexible working arrangements, so the office is geared up to enable different styles of work.

“We have areas suitable for working on projects, areas for collaboration and then some more traditional spaces.

“We will have a call centre operating here in Gosford.”

Ms Sinclair said she did

SCHOLTEN

not know the exact number of operators but they would be one of the biggest groups of employees based in Gosford, followed by the client engagement group.

Those two categories of employee would account for 45 per cent of the overall ATO workforce based in Gosford.

The ATO is sharing the building with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Group.

“We are taking the whole space except for the NDIS Group, which has a lower part of the building and a separate entrance to us,” Ms Sinclair

said.

“We are negotiating with another state agency, but I am not sure where that will land.”

She said the intake of new employees to the building was being staggered because they were mostly brand new employees who needed induction and training.

Ms Sinclair said she was unable to state exactly what percentage of employees would be local, but said they would definitely be the majority.

“The sort of work they are doing is customer service, dispute resolution, so we have a presence of legal teams, advice work and corporate advice, basically a replica of a traditional ATO office.

“Call centre and client engagement are the group that look after engagement with clients from an advice and help and assist point of view, and they are a big part of our organisation.

“They look after things like superannuation, small business and individuals.”

Source: Interview, Dec 12 Sue Sinclair, Australian Taxation Office Jackie Pearson, journalist

...reborn and now in Galleria Ettalong,

the former Ettalong Markets at Ettalong Beach

Jewellers

After retiring in June 2014, Henry Scholten has now opened a small shop in the former Ettalong Markets, only trading on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays.

The Ettalong market has been beautifully revamped to a luxury European Galleria style tourist attraction.

Established in 1988, Scholten Jewellers has been manufacturing fine jewellery on the Central Coast for 30 years, having had shops in Bateau Bay, Gosford, Erina and Tuggerah.

Scholten Jewellers is now in Ettalong, providing an excellent repair, design remodelling and manufacturing service.

The location is also an impressive showroom of unique, handmade rings, pendants, earrings, bangles, brooches, chains set with precious and semi-precious gems, and a huge selection of Australian Opal. All repairs and manufacturing is done on the premises in a fully equipped workshop.

Come and say hello to Nicola and Henry at their new Ettalong Beach store, or call them on 0431 670 033 or 0412 655 316.

PAGE 11 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Santa’s coming...

This December Santa is visiting Village Central Wyong on his travels around the world.

Saturday Sunday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

9th 10th 13th 14th 15th 16th 17th

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

18th 19th 20th 21st 22nd 23rd

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Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday

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PAGE 12 DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Financial reports for amalgamated Council referred to external audit

T

he financial reports for Central Coast Council, from amalgamation until June 30, were referred to external audit, following an Extraordinary Meeting held on Thursday, December 7.

Council’s total income for the 13.5 month statutory reporting period was $723.7 million, including $90.3 million of capital grants and contributions, and operating expenses of $568 million.

Council’s operating surplus before capital grants, contributions and gain on local government amalgamation, was $65.4 million.

Central Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, said Council had recorded a significant surplus and is committed to ensuring

that it is spent directly on the services and facilities that the community needs, wants and values.

“Key priorities will be to deliver those essential services that our community expects and have told us they want, including better roads, footpaths, drainage, recreational facilities and healthy waterways,” Clr Smith said.

“Now that our financial position is clear, I look forward to working with staff to better integrate essential service delivery and the growing infrastructure needs of the Coast, while protecting and enhancing our natural environment to create liveable communities.

“The community should feel confident that we have the funds in the bank and the

financial systems in place to deliver.

“I particularly want to single out the excellent work of the Chief Financial Officer, Ms Viv Louie, and her team, in working through the complexity of the finances and presenting these historic first reports of Central Coast Council.

“The reports will now be referred for external audit to the NSW Auditor General and we will await her advice.”

Once the audit is complete, the NSW Auditor General, via the Audit Office of New South Wales, will issue Council with an audit report.

The audited financial reports, including the audit reports, will be presented at a future Council meeting.

Source: Media release, Dec 7 Central Coast Council media

Revised Council Code of Meeting Practice on public exhibition

C

o m m u n i t y members have until January 22 to make comments on Central Coast Council’s revised Code of Meeting Practice.

The Code, which is currently on exhibition for public comment, sets out how Council meetings should run.

The proposed revised Code, if adopted by Council, will have Council meetings on the second and fourth Monday of the month, from February to November, and the second Monday in December.

Meetings are proposed to alternate between Gosford and Wyong Chambers, to start at 6.30pm and be livestreamed.

Central Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, said it was important

to hold fortnightly meetings for openness and transparency and to ensure decisions were made in the best interests of the Central Coast community.

“We have a big job to do, and an important one, and it is important that we all come together regularly to make the important decisions that will move the Coast forward,” Clr Smith said.

“Openness and transparency is the key, which is why we will continue to live stream all Council meetings, so that everyone can see decision making in action.”

Other changes include a simplified order of business (page 13 of the Code) and the removal of the need for Councillors to stand when asking a question at a Council meeting (page 14 of the Code).

As required by section 253

of the Local Government Act 1993, the amended Code of Meeting Practice will be on exhibition for a minimum of 42 days, in order to seek public submissions.

A copy of the Code of Meeting Practice and how to make submissions can be found at yourvoiceourcoast.com under Currently on Exhibition.

Submissions will be received up until 5:00pm Monday, January 22, by email (preferred) at : ask@ centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or post PO Box 20, Wyong, NSW, 2259.

Source: Media release, Dec 12 Central Coast Council media Website, Dec 12 yourvoiceourcoast.com/ projects/Code-of-MeetingPractice-amendments-onexhibition

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Preserves, Jacques Kitchen, Larry’s Free Range Eggs, Peats Rigde Produce, The Apple Man, Meltic Beef plus many others.

Gosford City Farmers’ Market will feature a wide range of fresh vegetables, fruits, primary produce including gourmet jams and preserves, olive oil products, pestos, macadamia nuts and fresh home made products. The market will include other food related items as well as high quality “foodto-eat” vendors. Flowers, plants and trees will also be available for sale.

Additionally the market will also feature hand-made products other than food such as artists, designers and other quality artifacts.

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

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

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Changes proposed include consolidating five existing SEPPs to a new Primary Production and Rural Development SEPP, and includes Sydney Regional Environmental Plan 8, Central

INSTA LL IN A D ED AY! *

Coast Plateau Areas.

Primary production is one of the biggest industries in NSW, and it is a significant contributor to the NSW and national economies.

The NSW Government is proposing changes to the planning system to further support sustainable agriculture, aquaculture and rural development.

These changes will help ensure planning proposals affecting rural land are properly assessed and provide greater certainty to farmers on the types of activities that will require development consent.

“Primary production is vitally important to the Central Coast and the food manufacturing industry,” Mr MacDonald said.

NEWS PAGE 13 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Lucy Wicks voted no in the plebiscite and yes for the legislation

Sydney Regional Environmental Plan 8, Central Coast Plateau Areas is under review arliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, is encouraging the Central Coast community to engage with the proposed State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), Primary Production and Rural Development 2017, which is currently being drafted.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU A

I

“The proposed SEPP aims to consolidate existing policies to support sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, including on the Central Coast, where agricultural production is valued in excess of $150 million a year.

“The proposed reforms are in line with the Central Coast Regional Plan directives to support priority economic sectors and sustain and balance productive landscapes,” Mr MacDonald concluded.

Submissions are currently open until December 18.

Source: Media release, Nov 13 Kit Hale, Office of Scot MacDonald MLC

n a speech to Parliament, following the results of the Same Sex Marriage Survey, Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, thanked Central Coast residents who reached out to her regarding the debate, and confirmed that despite voting ‘no’ in the plebiscite, she voted ‘yes’ to ensure the passage of the legislation.

During her speech, Ms Wicks did declare that she would not be supportive of legislation that “entrenched a new inequality against those whose religious or conscientious beliefs align with the centuries old framework of marriage”.

“While I will vote yes to the final bill regardless of which amendments are adopted by this house, it is now time to pass a truly inclusive bill, one that recognises the views of 100 per cent of Australians, and not just the 61 per cent,” Ms Wicks said.

“In closing, may I reflect on my first speech to this Chamber.

“I said that I have a strong belief that family is the bedrock of Australian society and that we need to do everything we can to support those families.

“I still believe that this holds true, and that by supporting our families, in whatever form they may take, as the most fundamental institution for the development of the individual, we are taking care of our nation’s future.

“It is my sincere hope that, with this legislation to allow same sex couples to marry, as enacted in the Australian Parliament, the focus for the Australian Parliament and, indeed, for our nation, becomes how we can continue to work on supporting and strengthening Australian families.

“In the future, when each one of us has long since left this place, my hope is that the mark of our maturity as a nation will be our emphasis on

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honouring and strengthening our families and defending the freedoms which are so deeply ingrained in our national identity.

“It is a hope that I believe we can build on firm foundations, and a hope in which I am personally convicted through my lifelong belief and faith in my God. “To those for whom the postal survey was not the outcome they voted for, rest assured that I will continue to fight that our freedoms are protected and our families are strengthened to benefit our Australian society and our future.

“This is indeed an historic moment wherever you sit on the spectrum of views on same sex marriage, and I thank the House for the opportunity to take part in this debate,” Ms Wicks concluded.

Source: Speech, Dec 6 Lucy Wicks, Member for Robertson Dilon Luke, journalist

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PAGE 14 DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Ripe for a population and commerce explosion

C

entral Coast property values will continue to rise in 2018, because of a significant investment in the region’s infrastructure, according to Raine and Horne.

Brett Hunter, Director of Raine and Horne, Terrigal/ Avoca Beach, said that the Central Coast is a key beneficiary of regional infrastructure projects outlined in the 2017-18 NSW State Budget, and this financial

injection will drive up demand for, and capital values of, real estate in 2018.

As a guide, $188.3 million has been allocated for the Central Coast’s roads, including widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway between the Kariong interchange and the Somersby interchange, and Pacific Highway widening between Lisarow and Ourimbah.

These developments represent a $6 billion injection of funds into the region, which will lend additional

support to local business and employment.

Additionally, there is a huge increase in apartments sold off the plan in and around Gosford, with over 90 per cent sold off the plan for many different developments, noted Mr Hunter, who is the Vice President of the REINSW. “The back end of 2018 and all of 2019 will see over 600 new families moving into the Gosford area, and this will drive up residential values,” he said.

“The Central Coast is ripe for a population and commerce explosion, and with infrastructure projects such as the massive Gosford Hospital refurbishment, extra trains to Sydney, the completion of the ATO building that is expected to house 600 employees, and other major projects, real estate markets such as Terrigal, Avoca, Copacabana and Macmaster Beach are set for a strong showing in 2018.”

In addition, NorthConnex, linking from the M1 to the M2 in Sydney, which is due

for completion in 2019, is propelling enquiries from Western Sydney residents seeking a lifestyle change to beachside suburbs.

“In combination, more jobs and improved infrastructure should help average Central Coast real estate values grow by between 5-8 per cent in 2018, and shield us from steadying conditions in Sydney,” said Mr Hunter.

“In the past, property markets in Terrigal, Avoca, Point Frederick and Macmasters Beach were highly dependent

on Sydney,” said Mr Angus Raine, Executive Chairman, Raine and Horne Group.

“However, the region’s property markets are now supported by a more diversified economy that will be enhanced by improved infrastructure and a growing population that is increasingly detaching it, to an extent, from the ebb and flow of Sydney real estate,” Mr Raine said.

Source: Media release, Dec 12 Brett Hunter, Raine and Horne Terrigal/Avoca

Domestic violence provisions

D

omestic violence provisions for Central Coast Council employees will be reviewed after the unanimous acceptance of a motion by Clr Jeff Sundstrom.

“I am aware that there is a genuine desire on the part of all concerned that employees that are victims shall be afforded support and guidance,” Clr Sundstrom said.

“I am also aware that, within the former Gosford Council, former Councillor, Vicki Scott, brought a motion on this subject with similar intent, which was accepted,” he said.

“My request is to uncover where we are now with the intention of coming back later with a motion that puts our employees in the best possible position if they should find themselves in this unfortunate circumstance.”

Clr Sundstrom’s motion stated: “The Council note with concern that the Central Coast region is approaching the highest level of domestic violence in NSW. “That Council acknowledge that a more community-wide, inclusive approach, which

includes all levels of government, is needed to take a stand and reject this unacceptable behaviour and provide suitable assistance to all Council employees.

“That Council request the CEO to undertake a review of the Council’s domestic violence (DV) provisions for employees and report back to Council on the following items and any other additional areas or relevance.”

In particular, CEO, Mr Brian Bell, has been asked to report back to a future meeting of Council on what leave provisions are in place now for employees that are victims of domestic violence, what support services Council offers to its employees in relation to escaping and recovering from DV, and what further support could be offered to employees that are victims of DV. All 13 Councillors at the November 27 meeting spoke in favour of the motion and wore T-shirts, caps or white ribbons in recognition of the issues surrounding domestic violence within its own workforce and the broader community.

Source: Item 6.2, Nov 27 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting

The team at would like to take this opportunity to thank our thousands of readers and advertisers for your interest and support over the past 17 years.

We would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Our office will be closed on December 22, 2017 and will remain so until January 10, 2018.

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NEWS PAGE 15 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Community members call for better access to Lisarow Station

Other Regional News - In brief Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260. Given the

advent of a Central Coast Council, following is a

summary of news articles published in the most recent edition of each of our sister Central Coast publications.

The full articles and more, as well as all previously published editions, can be seen on line on our website

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

Issue 131 December 5, 2017

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Council aims to change rail facility location to Warnervale despite key contract being let Transport for NSW will receive a letter from Central Coast Council requesting that the site of the rail maintenance facility for the Central Coast be changed from Kangy Angy to Warnervale.

Mr Scot MacDonald met with community members campaigning for a Lisarow Station upgrade

P

arliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, joined community members at Lisarow Railway Station on December 8, after receiving an invitation from Ms Anne Love.

This followed an inspection of Lisarow Station earlier in the year with the Hon Taylor Martin MLC, and subsequent representations by Ms Love on behalf of the community.

Mr MacDonald addressed

the meeting and undertook to follow up discussions he has had with the NSW Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, the Hon Andrew Constance MP, regarding access.

“Ms Love and the community have advocated strongly for lifts and improved access for the less mobile people using Lisarow Station.

“I appreciate hearing first hand again how important this issue is to locals”, Mr MacDonald said.

Mr MacDonald also said he undertook to report back to Ms

Love and others on the progress of his representations.

“There are a large number of infrastructure projects underway across the Central Coast after years of neglect.

“The significant investment in hospitals, roads, rail and other areas is welcome, and our Government is determined to deliver the infrastructure as is needed and on budget,” Mr MacDonald said.

Councillors vote down staff plans to expand Central Coast Airport Central Coast’s new Councillors have voted down staff plans to expand the Central Coast Airport at Warnervale.

“Save my frog,” said Professor Mahoney

34 memoranda of understandings signed by businesses wanting the airport to proceed

Professor Michael Mahoney, after whom the Mahoney Toadlet was named, has met with Kangy Angy residents in a last ditch attempt to stop the rail maintenance facility from being built at Kangy Angy.

A new community association will be established, supported by a facebook page, dedicated to winning public support for the expansion of the Central Coast Airport.

Vote on rejecting airport public exhibition was not to avoid transparency Independent Central Coast Councillor, Ms Louise Greenaway, has defended her decision to vote against publicly exhibiting a proposal to expand the Warnervale Airport.

Stop Glen Road Development Action Group calls for action from councillors The Stop Glen Road Development Action Group has decided to lobby Central Coast Councillors, as it has been two months since K and P Gregory submitted their latest development application for a

29 units residential flat Wyong Road upgrade has Elected Councillors have yet to building at The Entrance under deal with several critical issues been eight years in the making consideration The Land and Environment Court Member for The Entrance, Mr Central Coast Council is assessing (LEC) has made orders granting David Mehan said he welcomed an application to develop a conditional consent to a proposed the installation of traffic lights on residential flat building consisting residential subdivision at 79 Wyong Rd at Mingara Dve, Tumbi of 29 units at 6 to 10 Battley Berkeley Rd, Glenning Valley.

Umbi.

Avenue, The Entrance, under the Affordable Rental Housing State Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263. The full articles and more can be seen on our website www.centralcoastnews.net

e Frkeeone!

Source: Media release, Dec 8 Kit Hale, Office of Scot MacDonald MLC

SEE OUR WIDE RANGE OF QUALITY, SHOES, HANDBAGS & WALLETS

Ta

Edition 434

Sporties advertises for merger, as developer joins board

Planning failure used to justify non-compliance

Sporties at Woy Woy has advertised through Clubs NSW for expressions of interest from registered clubs to explore the possibility of an amalgamation or merge

An application to build three townhouses that do not comply with planning guidelines is being justifi ed on the basis that the council has not followed the guidelines “on numerous

Tesch backs dredge costsharing

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Dot Devine turns 104 Umina nursing home resident Ms Dot Devine turned 104 on Friday, celebrating with friends, family and staff. Dot has lived through the

King tides prompt renewed call Sporties proposal attracts more to upgrade wharf than 50 objections

Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch has called for costsharing between Central Coast Council and the State Government to keep the Ettalong Channel open.

Recent king tides which have left Woy Woy wharf under water have prompted Central Coast Ferries to renew calls they have been making since 2010 for the upgrade of the wharf.

More than 50 submissions have been lodged with Central Coast Council objecting to the proposal to redevelop Sporties at Woy Woy on the corner of Brick Wharf Rd and North Burge Rd, Woy Woy.

Umina oval community garden to involve students

Radiotherapy scholarships presented

Laine nominated as Volunteer of the Year

The operator of the kiosk at Umina oval has taken the initiative to involve young people with landscaping the area.

A Woy Woy resident has presented research scholarships on behalf of a foundation established by her father.

Woy Woy resident, Ms Laine Edwards, has been nominated for the NSW Volunteer of the Year Award for 2017.

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

PAGE 16 DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Systemic mismanagement of the Crown Lands Act found

T

he NSW AuditorGeneral has c o m m e n t e d upon systemic mismanagement of the Crown Lands Act over many years.

All across the NSW Central Coast, we find numerous examples of inside deals being done for lease or sale, with no public communication and no scrutiny.

In Gosford itself, the former public school (public land) was stealthily rezoned using a 24 hour State Environmental Planning Policy, then sold off, ending forever the aspirations of the local community for a Performing Arts Centre and community use of the site.

At this very moment, there is a proposal to sell a huge area of Crown Land zoned SP1 at Kariong for shops, a supermarket, a childcare centre and a service station, all developments which can be located in other zonings.

That proposal would forever kill off any large open space land for expos, concerts and the like.

It would be selling off public land to satiate developer greed.

The above examples That

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See Page 2 for contribution conditions demonstrate why public scrutiny of proposals in respect of Crown Land is needed.

Put simply, the government has demonstrated that it is incapable of acting ethically and responsibly.

In the words of the NSW Auditor-General from September 8, 2016: “The management of the sale and lease of Crown Land is not effective because oversight of decision making is inadequate and community involvement is limited.

“Decisions on the sale and lease of Crown Land are not transparent and the Department has not provided consistent opportunities for the public and interested parties to participate in decisions about Crown Land,” the Auditor General said at the time.

Between 2012 and 2015, 97 per cent of leases and 50 per cent of sales were negotiated directly between the Department and an individual, without a public expression of interest process.

The Department publishes limited information about decision making processes, policies, or plans for future sales and leases, the Auditor

General found.

Clearly this must change.

Openness and transparency are among the fundamental principles of democratic government.

Current use and enjoyment is the present trigger for community consultation.

It fails to embrace the principles of Crown Land Management that have been informing the management of Crown land for the past 150 years, that is that Crown Land should be used and managed in such a way that both the land and its resources are sustained in perpetuity.

It’s a vision for the future, and should be the criteria for community consultation, not just present use and enjoyment.

The renewal of leases, licences and enclosures should not be exempt from public exhibition, as observed by the NSW Auditor-General in October 2016.

It is simply not good governance when 97 per cent of commercial leases are approved through direct negotiations, which can create opportunities for dishonesty or bias.

The proposed renewal of leases without public scrutiny will perpetuate this.

The Auditor General’s report needs to be addressed and seen to be addressed and these exclusions removed.

An exemption, because consultation should occur elsewhere, is also a chance to push through changes that are damaging to the conservation of Crown Land.

If land is to be sold and then developed, it is not enough to invite consultation for the DA process.

The example at Kariong illustrates this.

A conditional purchase contract has been negotiated before a DA was even lodged.

Revocations of a reserve or dedication does not require community consultation under the NSW Government’s new framework for the future management of Crown Land.

Community consultation would only occur at the sale process or the awarding of a claim.

Public consultation should be mandatory in the initial stage and will help to engender public trust in the system.

Community engagement has clearly been just a tick the box affair for many years, yet the Minister has failed to require accountability from departmental officials.

The process needs to be accountable and responsive.

Crown land managers are legally required to consider community submissions when making decisions, to ensure that public participation is meaningful, trusted and accountable.

Just as with JRPP decisions, Crown land managers ought be required to give statements of reasons for their decisions on dealings and activities, and to state how public submissions were taken into account and influenced the outcome of a decision.

Email, Dec 10 Kevin Armstrong, Tumbi Umbi

Comments on key Council appointments needed correction

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refer to the article titled ‘Elected Councillors have yet to deal with several critical issues’, published on November 22, and need to correct a number of errors that are material, and may mislead some readers.

Mr Ian Reynolds appointed me to the position of CEO, in his then capacity as the Administrator of the Council.

Mr Rob Noble did not have any legal capacity to make that appointment, and did not purport to do so.

The current directors and executive managers of the Council were appointed by the then CEO, Mr Rob Noble, following an external meritbased recruitment process.

Each of those positions is a senior staff position under the Local Government Act 1993 and so their contracts of employment are in the form approved by the Chief Executive of the NSW Office of Local Government.

Mr Reynolds, as the then Administrator of the Council, did not have any legal capacity to make those appointments, and did not purport to do so.

Only the CEO can employ, manage and dismiss staff.

The administration of the Council ended immediately prior to the extraordinary meeting of the Council on September 22.

The words “the Central

Adam Crouch MP Member for Terrigal

“Working for our (02) 4365 1906

terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au

AdamCrouchMP

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

www.GarethWardMP.com.au

FORUM Coast Council was still under administration” that you attribute to Cr Best are incorrect.

The Council is under no legal obligation to discuss or review the selection or appointment to the position of General Manager within six months of the election.

The Council can review that appointment at any time, subject to meeting the relevant provisions of the Local Government Act 1993, and within the confines of the contract of employment with the person employed to that position.

The adopted Code of Conduct binds councillors and staff, and includes a prohibition on councillors contacting staff unless that contact is in accordance with an adopted policy and procedure authorised by the Council and the CEO. That provision of the adopted Code is consistent with the Model Code of Conduct prescribed under the Local Government Act 1993.

Councillors are able to contact the CEO, Directors, Executive Managers, Senior Managers, Unit Managers in the Environment and Planning Directorate, and Councillor Support staff.

Email, Nov 27 Brian Bell, Chief Executive Officer Central Coast Council

NSW Member for Terrigal

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Mount Penang Development Plan 2014 needs to be redrawn

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entral Coast Regional Plan 2036–Gateway to the Central Coast A person could not be forgiven for thinking that this is simply a local affair which only affects the people of Kariong, how wrong they are.

This plan, as it is in the early stages of implementation, will affect all the residents of the lower part of the Central Coast.

Any person who wants to enter or exit the Coast will have to drive through the Gateway.

Yet what do we hear from our Federal Politicians, State Politicians and our Local Councillors?

Nothing.

When, if the present plans go ahead as they very likely will, the traffic is in gridlock at Kariong, peoples’ travel times just to get through this mess double, people have to get up at 4:00am instead of 5:00am to get to work, and they are queuing for half an hour to get home in the evening, perhaps

FORUM they will think back to this time when they did nothing to protest.

Why should our elected representatives care?

By then, they will be out of office or retired and the ones that follow will have to clean up the mess.

We think we are electing people with vision as our leaders.

No we are electing small minded people with their petty ideas and self-interest.

The Mount Penang Development Plan 2014 needs to be redrawn in consultation with Plan 2036.

Woy Woy Rd needs drastic action taken again in consultation with Plan 2036.

How difficult can this be, and what kudos would the person who was instrumental in doing this have in the eyes of the people of the Central Coast?

Email, Dec 7 Geoff Mitchell, Kariong

FORUM PAGE 17 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Gosford Council’s accounts are now magically OK

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he draft consolidated accounts for the merged Central Coast Council (business papers, December 7 extraordinary meeting) leave a number of old questions unanswered and raise new ones for rate payers and their Councillors.

The new accounts combine the finances of the former Wyong and Gosford Councils and it is acknowledged that the two differing accounting platforms and policies presented a formidable challenge to consolidate and reconcile.

Nonetheless, before Council staff can declare the financial merger successful and complete, the aspect of the doubtful Financial Year 201516 accounts of the former Gosford Council needs to be closed out positively.

This closing-out should include obtaining an unqualified independent audit

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FORUM report to validate that the financial affairs of the former Gosford Council contain no material impairments and liabilities that could affect the bona fide accuracy of the new Council’s finances.

We should be mindful here that under the Reynoldsadministered Central Coast Council, the extraordinary meeting of June 19 resolved to note caveats to the financial statements and a further referral to Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) as external auditors, and that PWC had requested more time for testing in order to form an opinion.

The enclosed Statement from Management (Noble / Naven) to that Extraordinary Meeting’s business papers remains a source of considerable uncertainty and therefore concern.

These refer to the absence of evident controls and trackability of adjustments and changes made to account ledgers, including externally

restricted cash balances (read: trust accounts and statutory funds held by Council).

Accordingly, Caroline Mara, representing PWC as the nominated auditors, provided a statement that included a blanket disclaimer, a refusal to form an opinion on the accounts and the inability to comment on the operating result, cash position, working capital, financial position, performance indicators or books of accounts or records for the 2015-16 consolidated financial reports of the former Gosford Council.

We should also note that Central Coast Council now does not make any claim that these issues have been resolved, nor that PWC have been able to provide a positive audit report, but that, all the same, it now appears that in order to proceed with the presentation of 2016-17 consolidated financial statements for a new combined Council entity, albeit issued in draft format, the figures have been accepted as a fait accopli.

The significant impairment

risks inherited by the unreconciled Gosford finances are simply swept under the carpet of fresh reporting.

The 2016-17 draft financial reports make no provision for the significant uncertainties arising from the Gosford accounts; there are no itemised contingencies to cover any resultant risk and potential liabilities.

Sir Humphrey Appleby (Yes Minister) would have thought highly of Council staff and their courage to bring their reporting to an Extraordinary Meeting on December 7, considering the much-publicised accounting inconsistencies that they were incorporating and asking Mayor and Councillors to endorse.

It remains to be seen if the NSW Audit Office will be taken in by their legerdemain.

Meanwhile, our Central Coast Councillors would be welladvised to spare their quills lest they be held accountable later for any lack of due diligence and inquiry.

Email, Dec 11 Wolfgang Koerner, Point Clare

PAGE 18 DECEMBER 14, 2017 HEALTH

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Central Coast Ford makes a $15,000 donation towards domestic violence programs entral Coast Ford joined Coast Shelter in launching the White Ribbon campaign and the 16 Days of Activism against domestic violence, with a $15,000 donation towards Coast Shelter’s domestic violence programs.

C

The 16 Days of Activism

commemorate the massacre of 14 female students at a Canadian University on December 6, 1989.

“It is important that all men commit to ending genderbased violence by wearing a white ribbon during the 16 Days of Activism,” Mr Gavin Shepherd, President of Coast Shelter said.

“It is truly wonderful to have a high profile local business such as Central Coast Ford join

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the campaign,” he added.

In presenting the cheque, Mr Glenn Provis, Director of Central Coast Ford, stated that it was most appropriate that the company was able to join Coast Shelter in its efforts to end domestic violence.

“The money donated will go towards two of Coast Shelter’s domestic violence programs: Love Bites, which is a domestic and family violence and sexual assault prevention program taught to local high school students in years 9 and 10, and also to our Rondeley Domestic Violence Response Unit, which provides crisis accommodation and support to women, with or without children, experiencing or fleeing domestic violence.”

Mr Laurie Maher, CEO of Coast Shelter said.

Where: Nexus Smart Hub Business Centre: - 4 Amy Close, North Wyong 2259

Ph: 02 4955 6904

Source: Media release, Nov 30 Nemeesha Monagham, Coast Shelter

Additional funding for the Gosford Local Drug Action Team announced

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he Australian Government and the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) have announced $25,000 of additional funding for the Gosford Local Drug Action Team (LDAT).

With support from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, the Gosford Local Drug Action Team’s action plan centres around implementing activities that generate a sense of connectedness within the community, and foster health

Following seven years of publishing a separate newspaper focusing on postcode areas 2250, 2251 and 2260, Central Coast Newspapers has decided to take Coast Community News to its next natural stage, and set up a home delivery arrangement.

The program commenced on November 16, and the print run for Coast Community News increased initially to 24,000 copies. As more walkers come on board, the print run will increase by 300% to 44,000 copies, 42,000 of which will be hand delivered to letterboxes in 26 suburbs in those postcode areas.

This has made it possible to have brochures and catalogues included within the newspaper to help pay for the increased print run and high distribution costs.

Despite the 300% increase in the print run and associated distribution costs, advertising rates have remained unchanged, making advertising better value than ever.

Additionally, advertisers that take advantage of the new insert offer, receive a free advertisement in the paper to support their insert. A full distribution entitles the advertiser to a full colour, half page advertisement at no additional cost. A part distribution entitles the relevant business to a proportionally reduced

size advertisement.

Papers are not thrown into gutters or on driveways or lawns, but are being placed in letterboxes or, if delivering to a business, they are hand delivered to the reception area.

There should be no wet weather issues unless letterboxes are not waterproof.

he Central Coast region received over 6,000 reports of children at risk of significant harm over the last year, with three quarters of local children reported not receiving an assessment from a Family and Community Services (FACS) caseworker.

The latest FACS figures show that the Central Coast district

received 6,253 reports of children at risk of significant harm from July 2016 to June 2017.

This represents a huge 43 percent increase in reports from June 2015 to July 2016, and was the second-highest number of reports amongst the 15 FACS districts, according to NSW Shadow Minister for Family and Community Services, Ms Tania Mihailuk.

Despite these alarming figures, three out of four

As the newspaper is highly regarded, after having built a loyal following on the Coast over 7 years, it is not being seen as junk mail and therefore reaches more homes than other catalogue distributions in those same areas.

Inserts benefit from being included in such a highly respected publication.

In another novel move, the cost of inserts reduces for each other insert that is also included in the same distribution. This discount can be up to 33% off the single insert price.

At least 40 walkers are being employed to complete the distribution, as well as drivers to deliver bulk quantities to selected locations.

Veterans affairs card holders welcome

Well over 120,000 readers will now be better informed than ever by having this highly respected newspaper delivered to their home.

If you would like further information or wish to take advantage of this vast home delivery, feel free to contact me.

community,” she said.

“Developing and delivering local solutions is vital in addressing harm from alcohol and other drugs, including crystal methamphetamine (‘ice’),” she added.

The program builds the capacity of communities to create or strengthen partnerships and work together to produce evidence informed approaches to alcohol and other drugs-related issues.

Source: Media release, Dec 7 Carmel Green, Alcohol and Drug Foundation

The majority of children at risk of significant harm are not being cared for properly

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home and business deliveries have commenced – Inserts welcome

and wellbeing.

The project includes the delivery of a series of art workshops for young people aged 12 to 17 years old.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s NSW Manager, Dr Lisa Simone, says the Gosford Local Drug Action Team will play a key role in preventing harm from alcohol and other drugs in the local area.

“The additional funding gives further support to the Gosford Local Drug Action Team to deliver alcohol and other drug prevention projects tailored to the needs of the local

children in the district that were reported, did not receive a face-to-face assessment from a FACS caseworker during that period.

The Central Coast district’s face-to-face assessment rate of 26 percent was also the second-lowest of all FACS districts.

Rather than boost numbers of caseworkers, Minister Goward has presided over high numbers of caseworker vacancies, Ms Mihailuk said.

“It’s horrifying to think that the Central Coast receives the second-most reports of children at risk of significant harm, yet three quarters of children reported do not receive a face-to-face assessment,” she said.

“Despite a more than 40 per cent increase in Central Coast children reported to be at risk of significant harm, this Minister has failed to deliver more frontline workers”.

Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris said: “The Berejiklian Government’s priorities are all wrong, the children and families of our region deserve so much better.”

Source: Media release, Dec 4 Julian Lee, office of Tania Mihailuk

Dr Michael Kotis (BDS SYD UNI)

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“This is the highest bulk billing rate ever achieved for a September quarter, and significantly higher than Labor’s 82.2 per cent when they were last in Government,” Ms Wicks said.

In the electorate of Robertson, the bulk billing rate for patients visiting their GP is 86.2 per cent, which is higher than the national average.

In neighbouring Dobell, the figure is almost 91 per cent.

“We are spending more than ever before on Medicare, with record funding each and every year”, Ms Wicks said.

“It’s growing from $23 billion in 2017-18 to $24 billion, to

$26 billion, and to $28 billion in 2020-21.

“In my electorate, we can also point to the massive $45 million investment that this government has committed to the world-class Central Coast Medical School, and the Health and Medical Research Institute, which will be a game changer for our region, through an $85 million partnership between this government, the NSW Coalition Government and the University of Newcastle.

“The facts are that Australian patients received an additional 21 million bulk-billed visits compared with Labor’s last year in Government.

“We’ve established the Medicare Guarantee Fund to secure the ongoing funding of the Medicare benefits schedule and the PBS. “I thank the Coalition Government for their determination and commitment to delivering better quality health care for people on the Central Coast,” Ms Wicks concluded.

Source: Media release, Dec 4 Tim Sowden, Office of Lucy Wicks MP

HEALTH PAGE 19 DECEMBER 14, 2017

30 years of operating a manufacturing business that employs disabled workers

GP bulk billing rates are increasing atients in the R o b e r t s o n electorate are benefiting from the Coalition Government’s commitment to Medicare, with the national GP bulk billing rate for the September quarter increasing to a record 85.9 per cent, according to Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks.

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU U

West Gosford business, Lasercraft, supports local people living with disabilities to thrive

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asercraft Australia is celebrating 30 years of operating a manufacturing business in West Gosford that employs disabled workers.

Lasercraft makes and sells corporate recognition awards, plaques and business gifts to major companies and government departments.

It also makes survey pegs for construction firms and surveyors.

It is a not-for-profit company and registered as a charity.

Revenue from its sales goes toward employment of supported workers with disabilities.

It currently employs 23 supported workers and provides training and workplace skills.

General Manager, Mr Peter Britton, said: “I love working with the supported workers.

“It is a delight to see them

flower by gaining skills, having a normal work routine, increased socialisation and feeling accepted.

“Our aim is to create more

places for supported workers, but this is only possible if we increase sales revenue.”

The supported workers are paid wages, and all have NDIS

plans.

Source: Media release, Nov 14 Peter Britton, Lasercraft Sales, West Gosford

PAGE 20 DECEMBER 14, 2017

EDUCATION

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Rotary Club donates computers Songlines Summer Appeal launched AISDA has launched their for hearing impaired children Songlines Summer

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Appeal for 2017.

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other of two, Ms Amanda Harvey, has celebrated the donation of 17 computers from Gosford Rotary Club for hearing impaired children at Chertsey Primary School.

When Ms Harvey contacted the Rotary Club of Gosford to request some support for her children’s school, she had little idea of the sequence of events that she had set in train.

Amanda has two children who are both hearing impaired.

She contacted the Rotary Club, reasoning that early learning of computer skills would greatly enhance her children’s future development and employment opportunities.

President of the Gosford Rotary Club, Mr Barry Henwood, visited Chertsey Primary School to see for himself after Ms Harvey reached out to the club. “I was completely blown away,� said Mr Henwood. “Chertsey is in a beautiful bushland setting and I had no

idea it was the only primary school on the entire Central Coast that has specialist classes for the hearing impaired,� Mr Henwood said.

Chertsey Primary caters for students from kindergarten to Year 6 and their students come from as far as San Remo and Umina.

Chertsey has two special education classes for the hearing impaired and both teachers, Ms Linda Fantoni and Ms Kirsten Gorsky, have Masters Degrees in special education.

With further skills for the hearing impaired, Ms Fantoni takes the new arrivals for the first few years to establish a communication medium, then hands them over to Ms Gorsky, who sees them through to Year 6.

The initial approach to Gosford Rotary was for only one computer, but the need and the opportunity to help was just too much for the members of Gosford Rotary. “When I took the opportunity to the board and current President, Mr Jim Katrikilis, he

gave it his enthusiastic support as it was the easiest decision we’ve made in years,� said Mr Henwood. “Someone just said ‘why don’t we give them all a computer’ and we all put our hands up,� Mr Katrikilis said. “It’s good to build parks and shelters and to support bushfire appeals, but after nearly 20 years in Rotary, I can’t recall anything more satisfying as donating 17 computers to help these kids get a good start�.

While the Rotary Club had to dig deep for the money, their load was made much lighter with the whole hearted support of Harvey Norman’s Erina store and its immediate wish to help such a community project. “It might take a while, but with a computer for every child, I’m confident we can offer individual tuition....and they will love it,� said Ms Linda Fantoni.

Source: Media release, Nov 28 Barry Henwood, Gosford Rotary Club

Songlines is NAISDA’s annual fundraising campaign and aligns itself with their November performance season.

The season embodies the creative culmination of NAISDA’s developing artists’ journeys.

For graduating artists, it signals the start of a new adventure as they continue the

NAISDA legacy and embark upon careers that will see them performing to audiences across the nation and the world.

With a target of $100,000, Songlines recognises that each success, achievement, performance and graduating student has only been possible by virtue of someone else’s philanthropy.

Songlines invites you to be part of that lineage of ‘paying it forward’ and the next wave of people who make a difference. “That difference could be the

continuation of our outstanding education completion rate, which is more than triple that of the national vocational education and training average for indigenous students,� a spokesperson for NAISDA said. “It could be the 26,000 Australian school students and teachers across the country who take part in our program of performances and cultural education each year.�

Source: media release, Dec 1 NAISDA media

Erina Heights to have a Native Bush Tucker Learnscape

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rina Heights Public School has received a $3,500 NSW Government Eco Schools grant to rejuvenate a section of garden into a Native Bush Tucker Learnscape, Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, said.

The project’s aim is for all students to become informed global citizens, to take

ownership and be culturally aware. “By rejuvenating the garden, the project will provide authentic learning pathways to students, staff and the wider community,� Mr Crouch said.

The future-focused project has a whole of school approach, embedding Aboriginal perspectives.

All 345 students will take part in designing, implementing, caretaking, learning and producing.

This sustainability project will also enhance and promote healthy eating, community connections, and add an additional learning space to the school grounds. “Funding grassroots projects is about teaching kids how to live more sustainably,� Mr Crouch said.

Source: Media release, Dec 6 Donna Golightly, Office of Adam Crouch MP

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Winning student, Sophia Walcott, from Central Coast Grammar School, was awarded a cheque for $1,000 for her business, Sweet Surrender, a business in which she designs and hand paints original artworks on denim jackets as one-off pieces for her growing clientele.

Ms Walcott is already receiving enquiries about her product from overseas and has had her designs featured in a well-known swimwear brand’s modelling shoot.

Second place, and a cheque for $300, was awarded to, Amelia Hey, from Terrigal High School, for Pulpy Pineapple, a healthy alternative to sugary beverages sold via mobile vans at community events.

Third place, and a cheque for $200, went to, Kate Witham, from St Philip’s Christian College ,for IMUM, an innovative ‘virtual mum’ app delivery to assist when you’re unwell.

Students were judged on a range of criteria including creativity, passion, an understanding of what it

Help Ted Noffs Foundation get addicted children clean

takes to get a business off the ground, and their ability to pitch their idea to an audience.

Wild Fig Service Alliance is a not-for-profit organisation consisting of members representing a broad range of established businesses on the Central Coast.

The YES Awards was launched in 2013 as part of the group’s commitment to encourage entrepreneurial spirit in local youth.

Source: Media release, Nov 16 Phaedra Pym, A Way with Words

EDUCATION

PAGE 21 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Local students participate in Regional Youth Orchestra

Budding entrepreneurs win awards hree local girls won first, second and third place for their entrepreneurial submissions in the fifth Wild Fig Young Entrepreneur Support Awards on November 9.

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Riley Smith

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wo students from the Central Coast Conservatorium participated in the Regional Youth Orchestra (RYO) Lismore camp and concert in November.

Representing Central Coast Conservatorium were 18-yearold trombonist, Riley Smith, and 14 year-old flutist, Sophie Kelly.

Sophie Kelly

“Northern Rivers Conservatorium was thrilled to host RYO NSW in Lismore for a four-day music camp, ending with a wonderful free concert for all of Lismore to enjoy,” said Ms Anita Bellman, Director of Northern Rivers Conservatorium.

“We had young musicians coming from Dubbo in the Central West, Wagga and Albury south, and more from

Armidale, Tamworth, Coffs Harbour, Goulburn, Bathurst, Orange, Wollongong and the Upper Hunter, as well as our own Conservatorium students from Lismore, and of course, Riley and Sophie from the Central Coast,” Ms Bellman added.

The regional music students range in age from 11 to 18 years, and are all members of RYO, an auditioned

orchestra of talented young musicians from NSW Regional Conservatoriums, a network of 17 regional music schools funded by the NSW Government, through the Department of Education, to provide high quality music education in regional areas.

Source: Media release, Nov 30 Lisa Kelly, Central Coast Conservatorium

DECEMBER/JANUARY VACATION CARE Coast Community Connections has been delivering child care to local families for almost 30 years.

Our Vacation Care programs provide an array of different activities to excursions and day outings.

Book now for the next School Holiday Gosford program. Places are limited.

Week 1 Mon 18 Dec

Art Barn Plaster Painting

Tue 19 Dec

Awezone Trampoline Park

Wed 20 Dec

Ettalong Movies

Thu 21 Dec

Inflatable World

Fri 22 Dec

Splish, Splash Water Day

Week 2 Mon 8 Jan

Reptile Park

Tue 9 Jan

Inflatable Waterslides

Wed 10 Jan

Create Collective

Thu 11 Jan

Wannabees

Fri 12 Jan

Clip and Climb

Week 3 Mon 15 Jan

Niagara Park Stadium

Tue 16 Jan

Monkey Mania

Wed 17 Jan

Laser Blast Charmhaven

Thu 18 Jan

Slam Factory

Fri 19 Jan

Hunter Valley Ice Skating

Week 4

Please donate to buy beds for Ted. Call 1800 151 045 or visit www.noffs.org.au

Mon 22 Jan

Timezone

Tue 23 Jan

Alinta Gymnastics

Wed 24 Jan

Disco at Everglades Country Club

Thu 25 Jan

Maitland Gaol

Week 5 Mon 29 Jan

P: 0413 849 927 I W: coastcommunityconnections.com.au

Bateau Bay Bowling Sponsored by

PAGE 22 DECEMBER 14, 2017

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OUT&ABOUT PAGE 23 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Comprehensive guide to the Central Coast’s best Christmas lights

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n the countdown to Christmas, families all over the Central Coast are preparing to dazzle their neighbours as Christmas light displays go up, and locals embrace their festive sides in a friendly competition to be named the best and brightest house on the block.

An evening drive around the suburbs to take in all the grandeur and festive cheer has long been a tradition for families across the Coast, and now for the first time, Playing in Puddles, a one stop shop website, has put together a comprehensive guide to the Central Coast’s best Christmas lights.

Ms Katie Stokes, the mum and creative mind behind Playing in Puddles, said the map was all about helping parents and carers on the Coast find the best displays near them.

“Christmas is nearing and houses across the Central Coast will soon be getting dressed in their festive best.

“Strings of lights will adorn guttering, silver reindeer will nibble at sun-baked lawns, blow-up Santas will sway in the evening breeze and families will be driving very, very slowly through suburban streets pointing out lights to each other,” Ms Stokes wrote on Playing in Puddles.

“This is a map for all local families and we want you to

Lights on Birdwood Ave, Umina Photo: Steve Reilly

be involved.

“If you decorate your house, we invite you to include your place on the map.

“Know of a house in your street that puts on a great display?

“Add them too.

“We’ll be updating this map and feature often, so make sure you check back regularly,” she added.

“The whole reason I started Playing in Puddles was because I was finding it really difficult to find places to take my kids, or fun things for them to do on the Coast,” Ms Stokes said.

“I hope the Christmas lights map will help families find the

best lights near them and the idea was to take any stress out of planning what should be a fun experience with the kids,” she said.

For parents and carers on the Coast planning to tour the 2017 displays, Ms Stokes

had this advice: “I know from compiling this map that a lot of the really special displays always go that little bit extra on Friday and Saturday nights.

“Some owners are also supporting local charities through their displays, so it’s

always good to have a few gold coins on you when you’re out and about.

“Families planning a massive tour of the Coast should also lock in Saturday, December 16, as their night of choice, because the 16th has heaps

of one off events happening at displays all around the Coast, like free Santa visits, jumping castles and a sausage sizzle,” Ms Stokes continued.

Another insider tip from Ms Stokes for southern Coasties was to look north when planning their drives.

“Some of the biggest displays and best free activities on the 16th will be taking place at homes on the northern end of the Coast.

“It will be worth the drive,” she promised.

Locals wishing to plan their Christmas light drive can visit Playing in Puddles for a full guide of displays across the Central Coast, directions and additional information such as, if a house has a nominated best viewing time, a scheduled date for when the display will be erected, or whether or not the owners will also be having a special event or any additional activities that coincide with their display.

Source: Website, Nov 27 Interview, Dec 6 Katie Stokes, Playing in Puddles Reporter: Dilon Luke

Discover one of Sydney’s most historic sites, right on the Harbour

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coastcommunitynews.com.au

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Fifty three Drysdale works on exhibition G Curator of the Russel Drysdale Bouddi exhibition with one of the works at the Gosford Regional Gallery

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osford Regional Gallery is hosting a major exhibition featuring the original works of iconic Australian artist Russel Drysdale.

Curator for the Gosford Regional Gallery, Ms Sara Samild, has spent over a year putting together the exhibition, and believes that it is an exciting opportunity for the gallery and the wider community of the Central Coast.

The exhibition, titled ‘Bouddi’, after the name of Drysdale’s farm in Killcare, features 53 works inspired by the artist’s time spent living on the Central Coast. “It’s not the period he’s known for, and that’s one of the reasons we wanted to do this exhibition, because it hasn’t been done before, and we’re really keen to celebrate his connection with the Central Coast,� Ms Samild said.

It is the first time the works from this period will be exhibited together.

Most the works now belong to private collections and have had to be individually sourced to curate the exhibition. “The most exciting thing about this exhibition is seeing

all these works together in one room,� Ms Samild said. “It’s amazing. “Because so much of his work is in private collections, it’s rarely ever seen in public, so the opportunity to see some of these works in public, particularly together as a group, is really special,� she said. “The paintings are very precious because they are very rare and quite valuable, so we’re really happy to have the group of paintings that we have here. “The subtlety and the vibrancy of his colour, you just can’t get from a reproduction. “It’s another thing to see the works in person,� she said.

Most often recognised for his paintings, Bouddi features a significant number of drawings and other works such as etchings and book illustrations. “This isn’t what he’s known for, but it provides this really unique insight into his personal life and personality,�

Ms Samild said.

Often associated with his fascination with the Australian outback, ‘Bouddi’ highlights another one of Drysdale’s interests. “There’s definitely more of

an emphasis on people. “You see a lot of portraits and focus on the human figure, opposed to his earlier work, which was much more focused on the landscape and the outback land.�

Ms Samild believes the exhibition reveals a lot about Drysdale’s life on the Central Coast. “It was really quite a social time for him. “He loved having people over at the house, and he loved talking to people, and that really comes across in the kind of works that he produced.�

The exhibition holds special significance to the people of the Central Coast and Mrs Samild believes it is an important part of the community’s history. “It’s exciting for everyone on the Central Coast to be proud of the fact that he’s part of our cultural heritage,� Ms Samild said. “He loved being here and it was a really happy time in his life,� she said.

The exhibition opened to the public on December 9 and will be on display until February 4.

Source: Interview, Nov 30 Sarah Samild, Gosford Regional Gallery Olivana Smith-Lathouris, journalist

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Star 104.5 and Central Coast Stadium have announced that this year, Carols will be back in Gosford, on December 21, and they will be bigger and better than ever.

Central Coast Carols will make this premium Central Coast landmark its new home and will be making a difference in the fight against cancer at the same time.

Every dollar from ticket sales will be donated to Cancer Council NSW Central Coast to support local cancer patients and their families.

Ms Jaynie Moloney, Cancer Council’s Community Relations Coordinator, said that it is a fantastic way to spread joy at

Christmas time.

“Christmas is a time for family and giving, and we are so pleased that our amazing community can come together for a fantastic family event, and support local cancer patients,” she said.

Hosted by Star’s breakfast team, Rabbit and Julie Goodwin, featuring a lineup of local talent, national headliners, fireworks and of course Santa, the event promises to bring Christmas joy to a stadium filled with families.

Always big fans of the festive season, Rabbit and Julie Goodwin are delighted to be involved in this community event once again.

“We know that families want to enjoy an evening of carols that is easy and entertaining and we have just that.

“It’s a huge honour and so

exciting to bring Carols back to the Stadium.

“We’ve sent word to Santa that the venue has changed and have heard he’s pretty happy about it too.

“He’s even going to join us on stage,” Ms Goodwin said.

Over 3,500 people attended the first year of Star 104.5’s Central Coast Carols in the scenic Mt Penang Parklands.

The event was born of a partnership between Star 104.5 and the Cancer Council and is one that offers an authentic night of carols featuring invited guests like Paulini, Jason Owen and Greg Gould.

Source: Media release, Dec 1 Star 104.5 Media Cancer Council NSW Central Coast

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This is the second consecutive year the competition has been held across the Coast, creating a platform for local authors to be discovered and recognised whilst developing literary skills in the community.

Council Unit Manager Libraries, Ms Michelle SwanBeardmore, was at the ceremony to present the winners with their iPad to help cultivate their creative writing.

“With a record number of 234 entries, receiving an award is a noteworthy accomplishment”, Ms Swan-Beardmore said.

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esidents at Forresters Beach Retirement Village raised $2,600 for charity at their Christmas craft market in November.

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Short Story Competition winners announced he winners of the 2017 Central Coast Council Library Service annual Short Story Competition have been announced.

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Village residents raised $2,600 for charity

Christmas carols make their way back to Central Coast Stadium fter a four year gap, Central Coast Stadium will again host a Christmas Carols event.

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“We are incredibly proud of the Library’s role in nurturing and inspiring our amazing local talent to help not only boost the profile of creative writing across the Coast, but also encourage the development of literary skills within our community.”

The overall winners in each category were: Junior 5-8, Chase McGarvey for, Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover; Child 9-12, Isabella Pex for, Destiny’s Quest; Youth 1317, Sophie Miller for, Rising Sky; and Adult 18+, Mr Ryan Carson for, The Sculptor Council Director, Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the talent displayed this year was absolutely outstanding, making the judges’ decisions significantly challenging.

“This is such an incredible program and I commend our libraries for their part in cultivating creative writing in our local community,” Ms Vaughan said.

“With only 40 per cent of our population having completed Year 12 or equivalent, our libraries play an important role in encouraging education and learning, so it is fantastic to see all ages getting involved in this competition,” Ms Vaughan concluded.

Source: Media release, Dec 1 Central Coast Council Media

Hundreds of eager visitors snapped up a variety of Christmas and other gift items contributed by the village’s craft, sewing, jewellery and workshop groups.

Assistant Village Manager, Ms Julie Ramage, said residents had worked for months making items for the sale.

“It’s been a wonderful team effort by everyone,” she said.

“We have some very talented residents at our village.”

Resident, Ms Jacqueline Bunning, helped organise the event.

“The money will go to the Salvation Army, as well as a

taxi service that takes cancer patients to and from hospital,” she said.

“It was a good turnout, everyone was very happy and friendly, and we sold lots of raffle tickets.”

Ms Bunning said organising the sale brought residents closer together.

“It made for a friendly atmosphere in the village and we’re grateful to everyone involved.”

Source: Media release, Dec 5 Paul McBride, RetireAustralia

kim

churchill Live at The Rhythm Hut Sunday 14th Jan 2018, 6.00pm 135 Faunce St, Gosford

Tickets $20 pre sale On sale now

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PAGE 26 DECEMBER 14, 2017

NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS DIRECTORY

ARTS & CULTURE CENTRAL COAST ART SOCIETY

Tuesday Gosford Court 9.30am-1pm Thursday Kincumber Library 10am-1pm Free Insurance and training provided 0418 493 388

Lectures, demonstrations and discussion. Weekly paint-outs benefits@nswja.org.au Tuesdays 4349 5860 for locations Workshops - 4363 1156 U3A CENTRAL COAST 9.30am - 12.30pm 1st and 3rd Enjoy a diverse range of courses Wed Social Meetings 1.30pm and activities for seniors. Keep 4th Wed your mind active and make new Gosford City Arts Centre. friends. Your retirement years 4325 1420 can be the best years of all. publicity@artcentralcoast.asn.au 0408 704 701

CENTRAL COAST HANDWEAVERS, SPINNERS AND TEXTILE ARTS GUILD

www.centralcoast.u3anet.org.au

GOSFORD GUMNUTS

PLAYGROUP Spinning and weaving, patchwork Parents and children meet and quilting, felting and other fibre and fabric crafts, community socially. Make friends, learn more about parenting. 0 to 5 yrs quilting bees - Day and Night Wed - Fri 10am-12noon Groups Gosford Uniting Church Hall 4325 4743 129 Donnison St Gosford www.cottagecrafts.net.au 4325 3695

COMMUNITY GROUPS

gumnutsguc@gmail.com

ABC - “The Friends”

VOLUNTEERING CENTRAL COAST

Support group for Public Broadcaster.

Aims. safeguard ABC’s independence, funding, & standards. Meetings through the year + social afternoons Well-known guest speakers 4341 5170 www.fabcnsw.org.au

CENTRAL COAST COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE Not for profit service providing free legal advice.

Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm 4353 4988 centralcoast@clc.net.au

CENTRAL COAST 50+ SINGLES SOCIAL GROUP Invites Ladies & Gents for dinner, dancing - BBQs & socialising each w/e. Friendly group monthly programme all areas 0412 200 571 0437 699 366 50pssg@gmail.com

CENTRAL COAST SUNDAY LUNCH BUNCH (Singles over 55) Luncheons 1st and 3rd Sundays monthly at various licensed venues 43321 695 (after 2pm)

Refer potential volunteers to community organisations.

Provide support to volunteers and community organisations.

Provide training to volunteers and managers of volunteers Information sessions “Bridge to Volunteering” held regularly.

4329 7122 recruit@volcc.org.au

WILDLIFE ARC

We rescue and care for injured and orphan native animals. 24hr/day, 7days/ week. Come join us.

Gen Meeting 3rd Sun Wyoming Community Centre, Maidens Brush Rd Wyoming at 10am 4325 0666

COMMUNITY CENTRES COMMUNITY CENTRES provide the local community with a meeting place and hub for groups, services and information.

GOSFORD 50+ LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

KINCUMBER NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE • Exercise classes • Yoga for adults and children • Community eco garden • Room hire • Health support groups • Counselling • After school activities 4363 1044 www.kincumber.nsw.au

MINGALETTA ABORIGINAL TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CORPORATION A meeting place and referral hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs through consultative services and community programs.

Mon-Fri 9am-4pm 6 Sydney Ave Umina 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

TERRIGAL FIFTY PLUS LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE Activities include fitness, yoga, bridge, mahjong, zumba gold, line dancing, tai chi, painting, craft and computer classes.

43845152

WYOMING COMMUNITY CENTRE Yoga & Zumba classes, Art and Craft classes, Playgroup & Vacation Care, Support groups, Book Club, Community Garden, Rooms for Hire, Work Development Orders, Centrelink Volunteer hours 4323 7483 reception@wyomingcc.org.au

HEALTH GROUPS

GAMBLING SOLUTIONS Counsellors provide free, confidential, professional service to gamblers, family and friends.

Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford, The Entrance.

4344 7992

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

MEALS ON WHEELS Delicious meals delivered free Join us for a midday meal Help with shopping and cooking classes 4363 7111

BETTER HEARING AUSTRALIA CENTRAL COAST Hearing loss management Support and educational groups providing practical experience and confidence Learn the benefits of hearing aids 4321 0275

Handicraft, Painting, Knitting, Tai Chi, Scrabble, Darts, Table Tennis, Indoor Bowls, Patchwork, Yoga, Fitness, Gentle Swimming, Line CENTRAL COAST PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Dancing, Cards, Variety Social, (GOSFORD) Womens Group, Zumba, Crochet, GOSFORD NORTH Meet last Friday Month Computers PROBUS CLUB Terrigal Uniting Church 4304 7065 Meets 4th Tuesday at the Grange 380 Terrigal Dre, Terrigal Hotel Monthy meeting 4th 9.30am to 12 noon GOSFORD-NARARA Tuesday Grange Hotel 10am 4367 9600 43225560 NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE www.pcfa.org.au School Holiday activities, playgroup, multicultural PROBUS CLUB OF AVOCA programs, community activities - CENTRAL COAST PROSTATE 10.15am 3rd Mon CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Rooms for Hire Avoca Beach Bowling Club 4329 4477 4382 3372 (WYONG) www.probussouthpacific.org/ admin@gnnc.com.au Meet last Monday Month microsites/avocabeach Toukley RSL Club - Homes Ave GREEN POINT COMMUNITY Toukley - 10.00am to 12 noon 4356 9300 CENTRE www.pcfa.org.au TERRIGAL WAMBERAL OOSH cave, exersize classes, school holiday programs, RSL SUB-BRANCH At Breakers Country Club pension playgroup, arts & craft, room hire, DYING WITH DIGNITY NSW, and much more.

CENTRAL COAST and welfare officers available to 4367 7591 Working to give those assist with DVA compensation suffering unrelievedly from claims and benefits terminal or incurable illness Wed & Fri 10am – Midday KARIONG NEIGHBOURHOOD the legal right to request & Meetings 2nd Sat 10am CENTRE receive medical help to die 43842661 Early childhood clinic, free family Quarterly Meetings rsl@breakerscc.com.au law advice, active playgroup, 4369 8053 computer classes, OOSH services, The NSW Justices fitness classes, arts & crafts, over 50’s friendship group, youth Association Inc group, social groups and many Seeking volunteers for 8 more services. community JP Desks 4340 1724 Monday Erina Fair & Imperial wwww.knc.net.au Centre Gosford 9am-1pm

WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU

SYMPHONY CENTRAL COAST Community Orchestra welcomes new memberships to join our ranks Rehearsales every Wednesday 7.30 to 9.45pm at Erina

community involvment.

Wyong Club Meets 3rd Wed 6.30pm Terrigal Club Meets 3rd Mon 12 noon Gosford North 2nd Wed 7pm 0417 480 549 or 0407 008 555

info@sympnony centralcoast.com.au

LIONS CLUB OF WOY WOY

TEMPO TERRIFIC COMMUNITY SHOWBAND

Gliding Club, Learn to fly, Instruction FREE to members 14 and up for Training Flying at Bloodtree Rd Mangrove Mountain Thur, Sat, Sun ( weather permitting) 0412 164 082 0414 635 047 www.ccsoaring.com.au

1st and 3rd Mon. Woy Woy Leagues Club Make new friends and have fun while serving your community.

0478 959 895

CENTRAL COAST PENSION & WELFARE OFFICER NETWORK

www.gosfordrotary.org.au

NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION CENTRAL COAST

Active showband available to play at your community function.

Wide ranging repertuore. Always ROTARY CLUB OF seeking new members, come and GOSFORD have fun with music. Follow us on Gosford Golf Club 6pm Thursdays Facebook - Every Mon 5 - 7pm Supporting local and overseas Kincumber Uniting Church communities come along and 4365 4414 share fellowship and fun. www.tempoterrific.com 0414 777 748 tempoterrific@live.com

CENTRAL COAST SOARING CLUB INC

Group of Volunteers, trained by DVA, to look after servicemen & women. Ourimbah RSL Club 10:30am 2nd Fri - Feb to Nov 4322 1505

Twice weekly bush walks, varying distances and grades of difficulty.

Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, CENTRAL COAST GREENS CENTRAL COAST FAMILY Active community minded club. floral, history. Keep fit and make friends.

The Central Coast Greens Many projects focussed on HISTORY SOCIETY INC. 4389 4423 or 4332 7378 Open Tue to Fri 9.30am - 2.30pm For a fairer, more transparent and assisting youth. Support our great accountable government based projects, get involved with our First Sat 9.30 - noon on democratic principles fun club. New member enquiries SPIRITUALITY IN THE PUB Thur 7pm - 9pm Local, state-wide, national Ecumenical & Interfaith Speakers welcomed Other times by appointment. and international issues and Forum & Q&A with focus on Graham Black - 0410 509 071 4324 5164 campaigns - Council and developing understanding and grahamblack@outlook.com.au www.centralcoastfhs.org.au parliamentary representation encouraging dialogue about admin@centralcoasths.org.au Developing a new economy spirituality through people ROTARY CLUB OF Protecting our environment sharing their life journeys.

BRISBANE WATER KARIONG/SOMERSBY Peaceful conflict resolution 1st Tues March to October International service club HISTORICAL SOCIETY Community participation 2nd Tues November improves lives of communities • Coach tours • School We meet monthly every 3rd 7.30 to 9pm in Australia and overseas.

Funeducational tours • Annual Street Thu - Details and info: Grange Hotel Wyoming fi lled activities, fellowship and Stalls • Participation in History centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au 4328 2596 - 0498 588 261 friendship breakfasts. Phillip Heritage Week Celebration centralcoastgreens@gmail.com House, 21 Old Mount Penang Rd Margaret Pearce (opp Shell) - Fri 7:15am 4325 2270 AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY 4340 4529

HISTORY GROUPS

POLITICAL PARTY

ROTARY CLUB OF GOSFORD NORTH

WOMEN’S GROUPS

FELLOWSHIP OF FIRST ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS FLEETERS CENTRAL COAST meet every Wed 12.30pm Someone cares - Anglican Church 3 Mann St Gosford 4323 3890

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For anyone interested in early history or early family histories.

Don’t need to be a First Fleeter.

Point Clare Community Hall 2nd Sat 10:30am 4392 1926 4311 6254

OURIMBAH/ NARARA BRANCH

Discussion/action community issues - 3 levels of Government Niagara Park Primary School 7.30pm 1st Mon each month 0410 309 494

kersuebay@philliphouse.com.au

SPECIAL INTEREST BIZ PLUS NETWORKING ASSOCIATION

BPW CENTRAL COAST

Empowering women of all ages in the areas of work, education, well-being and friendship.

Monthly dinner meetings and speaker.

Community transport available to and from centre Chris Levis 0438 989 199

Attention business owners - if you keen to grow your business and in the process build bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com worthwhile relationships, attend a www.bpw.com.au/central-coast Biz Networking breakfast.

Develop confidence by improving Every Thur 7:15am - 9am BRISBANE WATER BRASS your speaking skills. Meetings are COUNTRY WOMEN’S Erina Leagues Club Brass Band entertainment for the entertaining and educational.

ASSOCIATION (CWA) Geoff Neilson community playing all types of Quilting, patchwork, spinning, network@bizplus.com.au popular music BRISBANE WATERS knitting, crochet and more Rehearsal every Tues.

9am-2pm BREAKFAST CCLC BRIDGE CLUB 7.30pm-10pm Every Fri, Opposite TOASTMASTERS CLUB Duplicate Bridge-partner not 0419 274 012 Terrigal Bowling Club 8:30am-10:30am required for most sessions.

4385 9503 or 4384 3696 2nd and Last Sat - The Hive and Central Coast Leagues Club COASTAL A CAPPELLA Library, Erina Shopping Centre 12.30pm Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri. Dynamic award winning GOSFORD RSL 0459 240 183 Sat 1.30pm Wed 7.15pm Mon women’s a cappella chorus SUB-BRANCH 4325 9854 new members www.cclcbridgeclub.asn.au BLUE GUM FLAT WOMEN’S AUXILIARY always welcome. cclcbridgeclub@westnet.com.au Music eduction provided Raise money for the welfare of TOASTMASTERS Lots of Performance veterans and their families. RSL Mthly meetings 1st and opportunities, or hire us Club West Gosford CENTRAL COAST 3rd Mon 7.15-9.30pm for your next event.

4th Mon 2pm Ourimbah RSL GOJU-KAI KARATE 0412 948 450 4323 7336 4362 7227 Traditional Karate & Self Defence coastalacappella@gmail.com for Teens & Adults CENTRAL COAST WOMEN’S No Contracts, Cheap Rates SOUNDWAVES Wamberal - Mon 630pm HEALTH CENTRE Men’s acapella 4 part harmony Kincumber - Thurs 715pm Counseling, therapeutic and GOSFORD WOLD VISION chorus - all ages 7pm Mon 0417 697 096 social groups, workshops, COMMUNITY GROUP Central Coast Leagues Club www.centralcoastgojudomestic violence and abuse Make new friends while helping Kieran - 0407 267 675 kaikarate.com.au issues. All services provided by your local world vision group khutton58@gmail.com women for women raise funds, monies raised jbthomson51@gmail.com 4324 2533 benefits Indigenious Australians CENTRAL COAST LAPIDARY www.cccwhc.com.au and families and communities CLUB MINERALS & GEMS SYDNEY WELSH CHOIR Learn silverwork, Cabochons, Cultural organisation performing world wide to overcome poverty SOROPTIMIST and injustice.

Faceting, Enamelling, Stone at various venues to promote INTERNATIONAL 4th Tue monthly 11am Field-trips & fossicking the Welsh culture with singing, Presbyterian Church Young St Weekly Workshops BRISBANE WATER Also performing for charity fund West Gosford Tues and Thurs 8.30am Making a difference in the lives raising.

0400 586 760 2.30pm. Thurs 6-10pm of women and girls through 4369 3378 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah Awareness, Advocacy and 4362 2246 Action by supporting local and INNER WHEEL CLUBS OF national projects CENTRAL COAST 2nd Thur 7 pm Breakers Country Wyong, Terrigal & Club, Dover Rd, Wamberal Gosford North Clubs sibrisbanewater@@siswp.org Women working together to make www.siswp.org a difference and imprive lives while making new friends.

Enjoy social outings and

MUSIC

kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com

PUBLIC SPEAKING

SERVICE GROUPS

If you would like your Community Organisation listed here, call us on 4325 7369 or see www.centralcoastnewspapers.com Entries in the Not For Profit Community Organisations Directory are free. However, we require each organisation to subscribe to each newspaper to ensure that someone from that organisation keeps their entry up to date.

Australia Post is about to increase their postage rates by over 42% and we can no longer continue to absorb these increases. Subscription rates have therefore needed to be increased from $50 to $75 for 25 editions.

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More than $17,500 in funding from the Coalition Government’s Stronger Communities Programme will contribute to the project, being run by the Rotary Club of East Gosford.

Ms Wicks said the funding will help bring the East Gosford community garden to life.

“This grant from the Stronger Communities Programme will help realise a vision to transform this community garden into a hub for local families, and people of all ages on the Central Coast,” Ms Wicks said.

“The funding will deliver a new shade cover, a bush tucker garden, and new timber furniture, including seating and a picnic table, to enhance the garden and the children’s play area.

“Around 30 locals are part of this community garden, and they all play a very important role in the garden, whether it be planting, weeding, bringing in cuttings, doing administrative tasks, making a cuppa for a fellow gardener,

or just enjoying the social interaction of being in the garden,” she added.

East Gosford Community Garden coordinator, Ms Vicki de Carle, said the garden has only been operating for a few months and has been growing quickly.

“Every member of our garden community is valued and welcome, as a gardener and a friend.

“From locals aged in their 90s, who’ve been coming along, to newborns who have been so eager to see the garden grow,” Ms de Carle said.

“It was Ms Vivienne Carroll’s vision that instigated the project.

“Vivienne saw the possibilities and encouraged the Rotary Club of East Gosford to commit to the garden project, and they have embraced every part of this initiative.

“Mr and Ms Joan and Rod Chippindale, from East Gosford Rotary, worked hard at obtaining quotes, negotiating and employing contractors, and encouraging the community to be involved.

“While Ms Margaret Berger from Rotary also worked tirelessly with Joan to get the garden established and

engage with the community through email and Facebook.

“Mr Dave Tanare, the President of the Rotary Club of East Gosford, has also been very involved,” Ms de Carle continued.

“Finally, we need to recognise Ms Helen Ingles, the granddaughter of G C Newman, who donated the land to the community.

“Helen has been involved since the opening of the garden and is a very keen and willing participant in the gardening activities.

“She is a true friend of the garden,” Ms de Carle said.

The garden is a reflection of the increased demand in recent months for community gardens.

Initiatives, including the Central Coast Community Garden Network, have recently been established to share ideas, knowledge and plants, and encourage sustainability, community, mental and physical health.

Other community gardens that have sprouted up include at Kariong, Kincumber, Woy Woy, Narara, Niagara Park and Wyoming.

Source: Media release, Dec 11 Tim Sowden, Office of Lucy Wicks MP

The Gosford Diary For events in post code areas 2250, 2260 and 2251

If you’ve got something happening in Gosford LGA area over the next few weeks, let us know about it and we’ll list it here for you, for free. Contact details are on page 2.

See the Peninsula News for events in post code areas 2256 & 2257 and the Wyong Regional Chronicle for events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 & 2263

Thursday, Dec 14 Christmas Art Sale and Exhibition, Art Studios Cooperative, Mann St, North Gosford, until Dec 22 Sing Sing Sing exhibition at Brisbane Water Historical Society Museum, Henry Kendall St, West Gosford until February 28

Friday, Dec 15 Ben Woodham, Kincumber Hotel, 6:00pm

Saturday, Dec 16 Central Caost Mariners versus Western Sydney Wanderers, Central Coast Stadium, kick off 7:50pm Twilight Christmas Fair, Dane Drive,Gosford from 6:00pm

Blue and the Doctor, Settlers’ Tavern, West Gosford, 1:00pm Concertante Ensemble, Sublime Sextet, Final concert for 2017, Greenway Chapel, Avoca Drive, Kincumber, 2:30pm, bookings essential

Christmas Carols, Kibble Park, Gosford Ben Woodham, Kincumber Hotel, 7:00pm

Thursday, Dec 28 Monday, Dec 18 Free ride-on reindeers and Christmas Arts and Crafts, Imperial Shopping Centr,e Mann St, Gosford, Reindeer 10:00am to 2:00pm and arts and crafts 9:00am to 3:00pm, until December 22

Thursday, Dec 21 Christmas Carols, Central Coast Stadium, gates open 4:00pm for show at 5:00pm, bookings essential

Saturday, Dec 23 Sunday, Dec 17 Christmas Fest, Kibble Park, Gosford, from 5:30pm

Sunday, Dec 24

Santa’s Christmas Disco, Central Coast Leagues Club, 5:30pm

Lost Paradise Glenworth Valley

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he Rhythm Hut is kicking off 2018 with international artists Rising Appalachia and Matiu Te Huki, on January 12.

Sunday, Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Festival, Gosford Waterfront and Central Coast Mariners versus Wellington Phoenix, Central Coast Stadium, kick off 7:00pm Terrigal Fireworks Festival, 5:00pm to 10:00pm

Wednesday, Jan 7 Didgeridoo and Flute Sound Healing, The Rhythm Hut, Faunce St, Gosford, 6:30pm to 8:00pm, bookings essential

DECEMBER 14, 2017

Rising Appalachia brings to the stage a collection of sounds, stories, and songs, steeped in tradition and a devotion to world culture.

Intertwining a deep reverence for folk music and a passion for justice, they have made it their life’s work to sing songs that speak to something ancient yet surging with relevance.

Whether playing at Red

Rocks or in rail cars, at Italian street fairs or to Bulgarian herbalists, this fiercely independent band has blazed a unique and colourful path across the globe.

Eleven years into their movement, Rising Appalachia believes that the roots of all these old songs are vital to our ever-evolving soundscape.

Led by the collective voice of sisters Leah and Chloe, and joined by their beloved band, percussionist, Biko Casini, and bassist/guitarist, David Brown, Rising Appalachia is a melting pot of folk music.

The soul stirring messages in Matiu’s music are positive,

inspiring and unifying.

Matiu’s soulful roots music has a strong Maori flavour, using haka, chants and traditional Maori instruments, backed by grabbing grooves, deep, beautifully crafted bass lines, funky rhythms and magical melodies that stay with you well after the show ends, all held up by a pillar of Pacific passion.

Matiu was the founding member of the popular NZ roots band, Homefire Burning, and now leads his current band, My Golden Soul.

Source: Media release, Dec 11 Bekk Moffitt, The Rhythm Hut

SERVICES DIRECTORY AMBULANCE, POLICE, FIRE 000 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Organisations Aboriginal Legal Service 8842 8000 Community Options 4351 3388 Bungree Aboriginal Association 4397 7700 Mingaletta 4342 7515 Aboriginal Home Care 4321 7215 Drug & Alcohol rehab 4388 6360 Respite Care Options 4351 3388 Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Health 4351 1040 Darkinjung Local Land Council 4351 2930

Accommodation Dept. of Housing Gosford 4323 5211 Regional Youth Support Services 4323 2374 Coast Shelter 4324 7239 Neleh House 4340 1052 Elandra Women and Children’s Refuge 4396 4263 Kara Women and Children’s Refuge 4323 1709 Coimba Mens Refuge 4324 7239 Rumbalara Youth Refuge 4325 7555 Wyong Youth Refuge 4351 1922 Youth Angle 4341 8830 Woy Woy Youth Cottage 4341 9027 Maya Young Womens Refuge 4323 1636 Pacific Link Com Housing 4324 7617 Rumbalara Youth Refuge 4325 7555 Youth Angle • Woy Woy 4341 8830 Temporary Accommodation 1800 152 152

Animal Rescue Festival,

OUT&ABOUT PAGE 27

A melting pot of folk music to feature at the Rhythm Hut

$17,500 in funding ederal Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, has announced funding for the East Gosford Community Garden.

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Wildlife Arc 4325 0666 Wires 1300 094 737

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

Emergency Police Assistance Line 131 444 Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 Woy Woy Police Station 4323 5599 Energy Australia 13 13 88 Gas Emergency 131 909 Gosford City Council 4325 8222 Marine Rescue - Central Coast 4325 7929 SES - Storm and Flood Emergency 132 500

Crisis Services and Helplines Lifeline - 24 hr. 13 11 14 Suicide Helpline 1800 191 919 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Parents Helpline 13 20 55 Indigenous Call Centre 136 380 Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321

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

Family and Relationships Parents Helpline 132 055 Central Coast Family Support Service 4340 1099 Horizons (For men with children) 4351 5008 Interrelate - Family Relationships 1300 736 966 Uniting Care Burnside Gosford 1800 067 967

Health Gosford Hospital 4320 2111 Cancer Hotline 131 120 Mental Health info Service 1300 794 991 Sexual Health @ Gosford Hospital 4320 2114 Beyond Blue (Depression) 1300 22 4636

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

Phone services: Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 Beyondblue 1300 224 636 Domestic Violence Line 1800 656 463 Lifeline 13 11 14 Kids Help Line 1800 551 800 Griefline 1300 845 745 Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467

Welfare Services Donnison St. Restaurant 4325 3510 Central Coast Family Support Services 4340 1585 Horizons Family Services 4351 5008 Meals on Wheels Gosford 4363 7111 Woy Woy 4341 6699 Department of Community Services Gosford - 4336 2400 The Salvation Army 4325 5733 Samaritans Emergency Relief 4393 2450 St Vincent De Paul Society HELPLINE 4323 6081

also, see the Not for Profit organisations directory inside

PAGE 28 DS S DECEMBER 14, 2017 CLASSIFIEDS

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

Personal and Not For Profit Organisations As Central Coast Newspapers are community newspapers, the cost of advertising not for profit organisations’ events is subsidised. This makes them the same rate as non business advertisements.

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Having an advertisement run for 3 months only costs $215 + GST, for 6 months it is $385 + GST, and for 12 months advertising, the total cost is only $700 + GST – Approximately $14 per week.

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Classifieds Classified advertising is the cheapest form of newspaper advertising.

This newspaper is published on line on the night before publication date, and is read that way by hundreds of people. All advertisements, including these classified advertising pages, appear in full on-line as an additional benefit for free.

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for home delivery of COAST Community News Earn decent money while keeping fit. Bonuses paid for inserts. Must be put in le er boxes and not thrown onto driveways, gu ers or front lawns. Need to be available fortnightly - Thursdays, rain hail or shine and possible Fridays - Email contact details to: manager@centralcoastnews.net or call 4325 7369

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Central Coast Newspapers has a very liberal credit policy for advertisers and realises that from time to time, people, businesses and organisations get into financial difficulty and may need assistance and time to get things back on track.

However, some people, businesses and organisations take advantage of this generosity they use advertising but simply don’t pay their account after several months and need to be taken to court to do so.

From time to time, as necessary, we will name these people, businesses or organisations as a warning to our readers so that they will be wary when dealing with them.

• Inspire

NSW Surf Life Savers descended on Stockton Surf Life Saving Club to contest the 2017 Interbranch Championship Photo: Surf Life Saving NSW

T

he Central Coast has taken out fourth place in the NSW Surf Life Saving Interbranch Championship.

• Thomas James • Coast and Country Clinton, Trading Removalists - Gosford trading as TMA Products &

P/L

RUN IT ‘TIL YOU SELL IT four speakers in each Prices 0418 973 177 condition EMI133 column $190 for the pair. $250 The lot 0410 511 694 BAT129/1 Ph: 0410 522 070 TWO 1987 GSXR 750CC BUC430/4 POOLRITE PM60 pool pump in good working order. $150 Ph: 0410 522 070

- Motor Cycles, Excellent SAVAGE 4mtr Alum, fwd POOL CARTRIDGE filter control, 25hp mercury, swivel holder Titan CL 160 $90 Ph seats, bimnj cover, boat trailer with covers, Excelent 0410 522 070 BUC430/5 condition $6500 ono 4358 3288 - 044302750

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DOLLS FOR SALE Celluloid, Porcelain, FULL SET BROSNAN BUC430/2 MCCULLOCH MT265 Petrol Accessories, Cots, Prams, brush cutter. Hasn’t been Dolls, Dressed Authentically. GOLF CLUBS, Extra Putter, 4342 1862 used for two years. $170 matkins274@optusnet.com.au Extra Driver, Buggy Ph: 0410 522 070 MAT133 BUC430/6 FISHER Paykel Upright $325 - 4340 5606 AQUAONE - tropical Freezer, Six slide out draws fishtank ANTIQUE colonial dining 0416 240 734 Good Condition. $130 200L tank and cupboard chairs 2 individual chairs DSM177 4390 0475 - 150Cm tall complete STHA134’ $150 each 2005 REGENT LIFESTYLE In very good condition PAIR Ballroom dancing Ph: 0410 522 070 BUC430/3 Including all equipment! shoes black, size 7, hardly CARAVAN $170 0410 511 694 worn, cost $165 sell $60 BAT129/1 Phone 0423 017 450 after 1 Owner, Island Queen Bed, WHITE OAK - High back 3pm Reg Sept 18, Well Presented dining chairs - Highest HHI176

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The Championship kicked off on December 8, and after two intensive days of competition, the Northern Beaches team emerged as the champions for 2017.

In the final wash-up, there was less than 50 points between the front runners, but the story of the championships was Hunter Branch landing a place on the podium, ending up third overall, behind Sydney Northern Beaches and Sydney, and beating the Central Coast.

While the Central Coast Branch slipped from third to fourth position this year, the team, consisting of some of the Coast’s biggest names in SLS, like Terrigal’s Tim Schofield and Umina powerhouses Rachel Wood and Jemma Smith, put in some commendable performances,

taking out the Open Mixed Ski Relay, Open Female Taplin, and the Open Female and Male Rescue Tube Rescue.

The NSW Director of Surf Sport, Mr Don van Keimpema, thanked the Stockton Club and the Hunter Branch for hosting the Championships this year, and congratulated all the athletes, team managers,

*To run in all three papers and on line for a maximum of 3 months if not sold before

*

coaches and officials for their efforts.

“We’re hoping to build this event to be one of the premier events in the State.

“The team environment we had at this event was absolutely fantastic,” he said.

Source: Media release, Dec 10 Don van Keimpema, SLS NSW

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DECEMBER 14, 2017

AthroBalm & Effective Business Solutions of Ettalong

as CUP Computers formerly of Gosford

• Michelle Umback - 2 Funky, Terrigal • Modern Asian Cuisine, Family • Tony Fitzpatrick trading Victoria Street East • Audrey’s Restaurant, Gosford Gosford as Futurtek Roofing George Nouri • Shelley Walker - • AAA Coastal Painting Greg • Decorative Fabrics & Previously trading as Service, Furnishings - Steve Sutherland, North Headmasters Hair McGinty Gosford Design, Park Plaza • Ezy Homes - Freddies • Dean Lampard Gosford Warehouse, Gosford Trading as Lampard • Jessica Davis - A1 Central Plaza Painting Cleaning Services, Erina

SPORT PAGE 29

Lifesavers miss out on podium championships

THE SHAME FILE

• Renotek, Tascott

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PAGE 30 DECEMBER 14, 2017

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Wade Carmichael qualifies for World Championship Tour

Tide Chart

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

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

14 THU

17 SUN

20 WED

23 SAT

26 TUE

29 FRI

0045 0.49 0716 1.62 1347 0.51 1934 1.33

16

0233 0.51 0159 0.50 0907 1.74 0832 1.71 1507 0.42 MON 1544 0.39 2135 1.33 2057 1.33

19

0422 0.55 1053 1.73 1732 0.40 2330 1.30

22

0002 0.49 0634 1.56 1300 0.56 1847 1.34

15 FRI

18

0345 0.53 1017 1.75 1655 0.38 2251 1.32

21

0013 1.29 0544 0.62 1209 1.64 1852 0.45

24

THU

SUN

7

0627 1.71 1257 0.42 1853 1.43

31

0233 0.32 0904 2.04 1544 0.12 2144 1.50

3

SAT

2 TUE

0419 0.34 1047 2.05 1728 0.12 2331 1.48

5 FRI

0514 0.38 1139 1.97 1818 0.18

0215 1.42 0120 1.44 0806 0.60 0706 0.52 1321 1.69 MON 1415 1.53 2049 0.45 2000 0.36

10 WED

13 SAT

16 TUE

0411 1.43 1023 0.68 1615 1.29 2230 0.56

11

0009 0.58 0647 1.57 1329 0.56 1913 1.24

14

THU

SUN

0213 0.53 0846 1.72 1525 0.39 WED 2116 1.33

17

0501 0.58 1130 1.69 1811 0.42

25

0532 1.58 1153 0.54 1751 1.40 2356 0.40

30

0309 0.52 0942 1.75 1619 0.38 2213 1.33

0147 1.29 0058 1.28 0722 0.69 0630 0.65 1251 1.58 MON 1338 1.52 2023 0.48 1936 0.47

8

SUN

FRI

0339 1.38 0930 0.69 1536 1.41 2208 0.47

27

0141 0.34 0812 1.96 MON 1451 0.19 2049 1.48

THU

TUE

0242 1.32 0822 0.70 1432 1.45 WED 2115 0.48

1

4

SAT

0122 0.50 0756 1.67 1430 0.46 2017 1.33

Council to spend $2.03 million of capital expenditure on the stadium

0508 1.47 1133 0.67 1720 1.23 2320 0.58

28 THU

SUN

WED

6 SAT

9 TUE

12 FRI

0437 1.47 1043 0.64 1644 1.39 2302 0.44

0326 0.32 0956 2.07 1636 0.09 2238 1.50 0025 1.46 0609 0.45 1230 1.84 1909 0.27 0313 1.42 0913 0.66 1513 1.39 2140 0.52 0600 1.52 1237 0.62 1820 1.22

0134 0.55 0053 0.56 0810 1.68 0730 1.63 1411 0.49 MON 1449 0.44 2038 1.30 1958 1.27

15

0250 0.51 0922 1.75 1559 0.37 2152 1.35

18 THU

T

he Central Coast Mariners have still been unable to secure an extension of their lease at Central Coast Stadium, despite protracted negotiations with Central Coast Council.

0048 0.37 0719 1.84 1356 0.29 1952 1.46

0327 0.50 0958 1.76 1633 0.35 2229 1.36

APPROX. TIME LAG AFTER FORT DENISON Ettalong 40 min, Rip Bridge 2hrs - Wisemans Ferry 2 hrs 30 min, Koolewong 2 hrs 10 min

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated

Avoca's Wade Carmichael has joined the World Surf League Championship Tour Photo: Keoki Saguibo WSL

A

voca’s Wade Carmichael has qualified for the 2018 World Surf League’s (WSL) Championship Tour.

The qualification is the realisation of a decade long dream for Carmichael, on the back of a third place finish at the Vans World Cup. “It’s a dream come true,”

Carmichael told the WSL. “I’ve been trying so hard, I finally got a real good crack at it, and it came true, I’m stoked.”

Carmichael will join fellow Acovcaite, Adrian Buchan, and Copacabana’s, Matthew ‘Wilko’ Wilkinson, on the Championship Tour next year.

Source: Media release, Dec 7 WSL Media

The Central Coast Council’s operational plan for the 201718 financial year includes $2.03 million of capital expenditure on the stadium.

Stadium projects to be undertaken included $80,000 on directional signage, $200,000 on food outlets, $250,000 on a sound system, $300,000 on two change rooms, $300,000 on public amenities on the East and West Concourse and $900,000 on new screens and a scoreboard.

Coast Community News asked Central Coast Mayor Jane Smith for confirmation that the Council had renewed the Mariner’s lease to secure its future A-League home games at the stadium.

“I don’t know the answer,” Mayor Smith said, and undertook to provide a formal response about the status of the lease.

“I think the critical thing is that the stadium is an asset for the Council and the community, and an asset that we see plenty of potential with,” Mayor Smith said.

“Council is committed to continuing management of that facility, and working with the Mariners, and making sure it gets its best use,” she said.

“It is looking like we are going to attract some more NRL games next year.”

Mayor Smith said a lot of the work that has been included in the Council’s operational plan at the stadium this year was “well underway”, however the tenure of its greatest, longterm anchor tenant remains uncertain.

Source: Interview, Dec 12 Jane Smith, Central Coast Council Operational plan 2017-18 Central Coast Council

Gosford, New South Wales December 2017 Daily Weather Observations Date

Day

Temps Min Max °C

°C

Rain

Evap

Sun

Max wind gust Dirn Spd Time

Temp

RH

Cld

mm

mm

hours

km/h

°C

%

eighths

1 Fr 18.0 28.8 0 2 Sa 21.4 30.1 0 3 Su 15.0 27.9 20.0 4 Mo 18.3 19.1 8.6 5 Tu 16.8 24.0 6.0 6 We 17.3 26.1 0 7 Th 14.5 31.8 2.2 8 Fr 17.9 28.3 0 9 Sa 18.4 23.6 5.8 10 Su 14.3 24.8 0 11 Mo 15.1 26.3 0 12 Tu 18.2 0 Statistics for the first 12 days of December 2017 Mean 17.1 26.4 Lowest 14.3 19.1 Highest 21.4 31.8 20.0 Total 42.6

ENE W WNW S SSE SSW W SSE ESE ESE ENE

W

43 54 28 33 41 41 37 39 28 31 35

54

local

13:56 15:07 07:01 05:52 16:26 14:06 10:47 13:44 15:37 12:27 16:02

9am Dirn

3pm Dirn

Spd

MSLP

Temp

RH

Cld

km/h

hPa

°C

%

eighths

Spd

MSLP

km/h

hPa

24.8 26.0 21.6 18.5 18.2 19.4 25.5 23.7 20.5 22.0 23.0 24.4

67 68 58 92 78 74 48 48 63 69 64 61

NE NE NW S SSW WNW N SSE S E NNE ENE

9 7 13 11 13 11 2 4 9 2 6 9

26.8 27.6 25.5 18.3 22.5 24.9 30.5 21.5 22.4 23.6 25.7

62 53 51 86 67 50 22 78 55 55 54

ENE NNW ESE SSW SSW NNW W SSE ENE E ENE

26 7 19 9 7 6 15 20 11 19 19

22.3 18.2 26.0

65 48 92

# #

8 2 13

24.5 18.3 30.5

57 22 86

NNW ENE

14 6 26

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Gosford included in the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay

T

he Central Coast is set to showcase its unique culture and landscape on the world stage as Gosford plays host to the 2018 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay on February 3, 2018.

A Commonwealth Games tradition, celebrating diversity and community spirit, this year’s Relay started on March 13, at Buckingham Palace, in London and will travel for 288 days and 230,000 kilometres, before making its way to the opening ceremony of the Games on April 4, 2018, at the Gold Coast.

Council Director, Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said 17 outstanding locals have been selected to proudly carry the baton when

it comes to the Central Coast in February.

“Council is honoured to host this event that gives our outstanding Coasties a chance to represent their community and get into the spirit of the Commonwealth Games,” Ms Vaughan said.

“This is a huge international event and gives the Central Coast a chance to shine on the world stage.”

The relay will start at 11:30am from Laycock Street Theatre, with baton bearers travelling down Mann St, through to a free ‘Family Fun Day’ event at Central Coast Stadium, before completing the final leg along the Gosford waterfront to the historic pool.

Central Coast Mayor, Jane Smith, said the event is a remarkable opportunity to showcase the wonderful

natural assets the Central Coast has to offer along with our world-class sporting facility at Central Coast Stadium.

“This is the first time the Central Coast has been a part of this international event and it is a real honour to be chosen,” Clr Smith said.

“I encourage our community to get behind this event and come along with friends and family to show their support.”

Coinciding with the Baton entering Central Coast Stadium, a formal ceremony will take place to welcome the baton as part of the Family Fun Day that includes free live music and interactive activities for all ages.

Source: Media release, Dec 4 Central Coast Council Media

Ladies League Tag Competition to commence in 2018

F

or the first time in the competition’s history, Central Coast Junior Rugby League (CCDJRL) will be introducing an Under 14’s and Under 16’s Ladies League Tag

Competition in 2018.

The Competition aims to provide an opportunity for female players on the Coast to participate in Rugby League in a non-contact format and provides a smooth introduction to the game.

Registrations are underway through each participating club in the CCDJRL for the new competition beginning in the 2018 season.

Source: Website, Dec 13 Central Coast Junior Rugby League homepage

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SPORT

PAGE 31 DECEMBER 14, 2017

Mariners keen to record another home win

U

nable to claim their third victory in a row against Melbourne City FC on Sunday, December 10, the Central Coast Mariners will be hoping for a win in front of their home crowd when they clash with the Western Sydney Wanderers at Central Coast Stadium on Saturday, December 16.

The Mariners have already faced the Wanderers this season where they locked horns in a hard fought 2-2 draw.

In that match, both Asdrubal and De Silva found the back of the net.

It was round two and the first real taste of Danny De Silva magic, who scored a wonder goal and earned man of the match honours.

Now in the middle of the Hyundai A-League table, with a goal difference of -1 and 12 points, the Mariners could easily move in either direction, so it will be important to come away from the pre-Christmas home game with at least a

point.

The statistics from the 18 games played between the Mariners and the Western Sydney Wanderers since 2012, when the Wanderers joined the competition, are reasonably even.

The Mariners have won five, drawn six and lost seven of the games against the Wanderers.

Overall, the Central Coast Mariners have been in better form than the Wanderers in the past five A-League rounds.

The home side has won three of its last five games and lost two.

The Wanderers, who are currently second last on the table, have lost three and drawn two.

At the time of going to press, Coach Paul Okon had not named his squad for the imminent clash, so it was not clear whether Storm Roux was fit for selection or whether or not Asdrubal would be back from injury.

Tom Hiariej’s absence in the game against Melbourne City was also pivotal and his status for the Wanderers’ match was unclear.

In the lead up to the match

Andrew Hoole commented that it would be his 100th in the A-League.

“Hopefully this weekend with Western Sydney we can get back to our winning ways,” Hoole said.

Hoole said he agreed that Tom Hiariej was an important player in the middle of the field.

“It comes around really quickly so soon it will hopefully be 150,” Hoole said of reaching the 100-game miletone.

“You just take each game as it comes, play each game and you don’t really keep tally itself but it is a nice achievement,” he said.

Hoole said he believed the Wanderers’ 5-0 loss against Sydney FC in round 11 was a “drubbing” and very difficult to come back from.

“So they are coming to the Central Coast to get three points and we are looking to get back to our winning ways as well so it will be a good game,” he said.

Source: Website, Dec 13 Central Coast Mariners Audio transcript, Dec 13 Andrew Hoole, Central Coast Mariners

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Laser Dentistry

Children’s Dentistry

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Packages on Dental Implants & Smile Designing NEW PATIENT OFFER - No Gap Exam and Clean appointment for Private Dental Health Insurance patients. Not with a Health Fund? Just pay $179 Includes FREE Xrays worth $160 The 60 minute appointment includes: Full Comprehensive Exam, Clean and Polish, OPG X-rays, Treatment Planning and Fluoride

A whiter brighter Smile in one hour PHILIPS Zoom White speed in chair teeth whitening special - only $595 (normally $950)

Dental Implants Free Assessment Improve your quality of life.

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

% INTEREST ON PAYMENT PLANS

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We provide reasons to smile

$1,000 Free Dental Care for children age 2 to 17 - Ask us for the Details

Gosford Bondi

PORCELAIN VENEERS

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FREE CONSULTATION

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INVISALIGN

Dr. Meena Gambhir

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

Dr. Namita Mehta