Coast Community News 375

27 JANUARY 2023

ISSUE 375

News

Our citizens of the year

13 Coasties recognised in Australia Day Honours See pages 8 and 9

Out&About

Free Trade Day founder Ryan Wilson has been named as the Central Coast Citizen of the Year at Central Coast Council’s 2023 Australia Day Awards.

High School Musical comes to Red Tree Theatre See page 13

Business

See page 4 Ryan Wilson accepts his award

Call to retain zebra crossing at Lisarow PS Member for The Entrance David Mehan is calling on Transport for NSW (TfNSW) to scrap plans to replace a zebra crossing at Lisarow Primary School with a pedestrian refuge.

“School access, via MacDonalds Rd, has always had a marked zebra crossing providing a safe option to cross,” Mehan said.

“We need a secure crossing to continue for our community at this busy location; one that prioritises children over cars.”

Mehan said both Central Coast Council and the school P&C have advised Transport for NSW that a marked zebra crossing outside the school is the preferred and safest option.

Member for The Entrance David Mehan outside Lisarow Public School

A Transport for NSW spokesperson confirmed TfNSW is undertaking a review of the proposed design to consider removing the painted zebra crossing and replace it with a pedestrian refuge.

“TfNSW consulted Central Coast

Council and Lisarow Public School during November 2022,” the spokesperson said.

“The consultation is ongoing.

“TfNSW is also reviewing school zone signage for Lisarow Public School.

“TfNSW will continue to keep Central

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Coast Council, Lisarow Public School, School Infrastructure and the Department of Education informed about the future of the painted zebra crossing.”

The spokesperson said no changes to the current painted zebra crossing will be made until the review is completed and key stakeholders and the community advised of the outcome, but Mehan said the review was taking too long.

“Transport for NSW doesn’t need a review, it just needs to listen to the community and provide the safe zebra crossing our children deserve,” he said.

Source: Media release, Jan 23 Member for The Entrance David Mehan

The perfect coffee delivered to your door See page 24

Sport

Charli Pascoe representing Australia in futsal youth team See page 32

Puzzles page 18

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After two nights jammed in a deep crevice after falling between huge boulders, the now-famous staffordshire terrier, Jax, eventually crawled his own way out early on Monday afternoon, January 16.

It wasn’t long before the local community rallied when the dog’s owner, Brian Barron, put out a call via Facebook for anyone with a jack hammer to help free the dog from the narrow crevice on his property at Wyong Creek.

Local animal rescue Facebook page, Millys Search and Trap Community Group, was bombarded with offers of help to pass on to Jax’s owner.

A two-day multi-agency and community rescue got underway in the difficult access location because of the inability to get large machinery in.

“I thought there was no way

Jax finally emerges from where he was trapped

they were going to get him out from where he was stuck,” Barron said in a television interview.

“It was a great relief, it was fantastic, I can’t be any more thankful and appreciative for all the people that came and helped.

“I think what happened is that

he’s chased an animal or something into a burrow and got stuck – all we could see was his eyes through a tiny little crack between the rocks.

“It was very lucky; I was out looking for him in the morning after I noticed him missing and I could hear him barking but couldn’t find where it was coming from.

“I went back out in the afternoon and followed the barking and actually heard the barking coming from inside a rock,” Barron said.

Early on Monday afternoon resilient Jax eventually emerged on his own through a dug out section to cheers and applause from a very relieved rescue team.

Jax has since been given the all clear from the RSPCA vets.

“Thank you to everyone who helped free Jax and all the offers of help from the community,” Barron said.

“Special thanks to Central Coast Asbestos removal, Caves Rescue NSW, Mines Rescue, RSPCA and all the tradies that came to help.

“I appreciate the amazing response from our community and relieved at the result,” Barron said.

Sue Murray

Be on the lookout for funnel-webs

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

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Community spirit saves dog trapped for two days

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A few days of rainfall following a short spout of hot weather will create the perfect conditions on the Central Coast for funnelweb spiders to emerge from their burrows in search of a mate.

The Australian Reptile Park has urged Coasties to be on the lookout for the deadly arachnids around their houses and gardens.

Operations Manager Billy Collett said the Sydney funnelweb prefers to make its home in sheltered, shady spots, which are always cool and humid.

The natural habitats are rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests; however, the shaded areas of well-vegetated private gardens are also readily colonised.

“When found inside homes, funnel-web spiders prefer cool,

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Humid conditions will see funnel-webs out and about

damp places like the laundry, garage or in shoes left out on the ground,” Collett said.

“It is best to ensure you are not leaving washing and clothing on the floors.

“If you leave your shoes outside – make sure you give them a tap on the ground before putting your foot in blindly as shoes can be the perfect little burrow for funnelweb spiders.

“Pool filters should also be

checked and cleaned regularly.”

Responsible adults are encouraged to catch wandering funnel-web spiders safely and take them to the Park at Somersby or one of the participating drop off locations to contribute to the lifesaving antivenom program.

The Australian Reptile Park is the industry leader in funnelweb spiders as it is the sole supplier of funnel-web spider

venom to make into lifesaving antivenom.

The program has saved countless Australian lives since the program’s inception in the early 1980s – there has not been a single death since the introduction of the program.

Collett said it was important for Australians to know the correct first aid and how to safely catch the spiders.

“We rely on public donations of funnel-web spiders to build up our milking individuals,” he said.

If you suspect you have been bitten by a funnel-web, stay as calm as possible, apply the correct first aid with a pressure immobilisation bandage and get to hospital as fast as you possibly can.

Source: Media release, Jan 20 Australian Reptile Park

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Future of iconic Ourimbah building under a cloud The future of the public amenities block at Ourimbah is under a cloud, with Newcastle University, which owns the site housing the building and the adjacent hangar building, yet to decide on its future.

Residents were dismayed to find the toilets on the corner of Glen Rd and Jacques St closed in recent weeks with no notice given.

And although they reopened last week, residents are still anxious about a possible permanent closure of the only public toilets in the area.

A Central Coast Council spokesperson confirmed the amenities had been temporarily closed so the water could be turned off for safety purposes to allow for the dismantling of the hangar building.

Since then, Council has negotiated with the University to have the amenities block returned to operational use until June and is continuing to have discussions with the University regarding the toilet facilities and the future of the site.

Council will also engage with the community on the future of public amenities at Ourimbah,

Member for The Entrance David Mehan and concerned residents met on site on January 13

the spokesperson said.

The hangar building itself (also referred to as a Nissan Hut) was originally to be dismantled and re-constructed at a (to be determined) site on the University’s Ourimbah campus.

It is now the University’s intention to dismantle and store the building.

Chief Operating Officer David Toll said the university would continue to work closely with Council on how community facilities can be best delivered

to the Ourimbah residents and community.

“The Nissen Hut will be dismantled and stored in accordance with the Development Application approval conditions while the university explores opportunities for adaptive reuse,” he said.

But residents are concerned not only at the prospective loss of public amenities, but by the removal of the hut itself.

Member for The Entrance David Mehan, who met on site

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with residents on site on January 13, said the hut is a World War II period structure which for many years was used as a community hall and was donated in the 1990s to Newcastle University by the Ourimbah School of Arts.

Mehan said the Ourimbah Masterplan recommended reuse of the Nissen Hut be considered to provide a new community centre as part of a new Main Street and Public Square for the town centre.

He said he had resolved to

write to both the University and Council seeking return of the land for community use and retention of the public toilet at the site.

“It would appear that Council and the University have conspired to remove another local heritage item and the only public toilets available at the local shopping centre,” he said.

“The land occupied by the hut should be returned to the community and the public toilet retained.”

The Ourimbah Region

Residents Association (ORRA) is also pushing for public retention of the land.

President Di Willard said there is great concern within the community that the only public toilet in close proximity to the Ourimbah shops will be permanently closed.

“The iconic Nissen Hut … was donated to the University of Newcastle by the Ourimbah School of Arts in 1995,” she said.

“Since then, the building has been allowed to deteriorate to the point where there is no choice but to demolish it.

“This property was given to the University by the people of Ourimbah and ORRA believes that the University and Council should come to some arrangement so that this site remains in public hands.

“We are suggesting that the site could be used as car park for overflow parking for the Ourimbah shops and/or a public recreation green space.

“The provision of public toilets is vital (to) any outcome.

“We believe there is a moral obligation on the University to return this land to the people of Ourimbah.”

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Our citizens of the year

Senior Citizen of the Year Warren Lupica

Free Trade Day founder Ryan Wilson has been named as the Central Coast Citizen of the Year at Central Coast Council’s 2023 Australia Day Awards.

Director of Community and Recreation Melanie Smith said the annual awards were a way for Council to celebrate those who enrich our community, with Wilson a worthy winner.

“Embodying the true meaning of community spirit and inspiring others across the Coast to follow suit, Ryan formed the Free Trade Day initiative after attending a typical household call out as a tradesman in 2017,” smith said.

“It came to Ryan’s attention the gentleman had been without hot water for some time due to a broken system that he could not afford to fix.

“Moved by the gentleman’s circumstances Ryan generously donated and installed a hot water system (and) wondered how many people were in the community without the means to access simple trade work.

“Ryan kickstarted Free Trade Day for locals in need by gathering and inspiring hundreds of trade businesses

to take part in the initiative.

“Today Free Trade Day conducts hundreds of jobs across the Coast each year with over 300 volunteers and more and more businesses coming on board every day.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said Australia Day Awards honour the work of individuals who have made a significant contribution to our local community.

“All recipients share common characteristics in serving the community, which include selflessness, commitment, and generosity,” he said.

“Thank you to all award nominees for supporting the Central Coast community.

“Each individual should be proud of their efforts, and we are honoured to have this chance to recognise the work they do “I would also like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and play.

“We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging and recognise their continued connection to these lands and waterways.

“We acknowledge our shared responsibility to care for and protect our place and people.”

Captain Peter Liston won the Community Life category

Brittani Presland is Young Person of the Year

Senior Citizen of the Year is Warren Lupica, who has been an active surf lifesaver on the Central Coast since 1957, seeing seven decades of service.

He is an active member and involved with a number of community service programs including running the Silver Salties Group at Shelly Beach and running tai chi classes.

He also organises free First Aid, CPR and Defibrillator courses for the local Probus club and Lions Clubs.

Highly commended in the Senior Citizen of the Year category was Gregory Mawson.

Brittani Presland has been named Young Person of the Year.

A financial analyst studying a Master of Business Administration and Master of Finance at Newcastle University, she serves on a range of community-based boards and committees, contributing sound financial and accounting knowledge to the table.

She is a member of the Wyong Neighbourhood board, Secretary on the Scouts NSW public fund committee, an assistant treasurer to Cooks Hill lifesaving, a member of the

Newcastle City Council Youth Committee and a member of the Gosford Preschool board.

The Young Person of the Year (Special Achievement) award went to Archer Pool, who at the age of just five, loves helping his friends, community and family.

Since Archer was two, he has helped his mother clean rubbish from parks and bake cookies for garbage truck drivers, postmen, teachers and front-line heroes.

During the floods, Archer jumped into action with his family to help people in the neighbourhood by supplying sandbags to protect their properties.

Community Group winner was Central Coast Kids in Need, a small volunteer group which has been able to assist families over the last 29 years with accommodation costs to stay with their children who are undergoing specialised treatments in Sydney and Newcastle hospitals.

The group also assists with high-cost prescription items, specialised formulas, qualityof-life equipment and travel expenses.

Over the years Central Coast Kids in Need has outlaid

Joint Volunteer of the Year Michael Sharpe

Representatives from Central Coast Kids in Need accept their award

$4.13M in assisting over 3,573 families.

Captain Peter Liston, Founder and CEO of the Veteran Community Business Chamber, won the Community Life category.

After a decade of military service – which later resulted in him being medically discharged from the Army – Liston reflected on how hard it is for military spouses to maintain a career or find meaningful work while their partner is still serving.

As a result, he now volunteers his spare time to develop the Chamber, while also serving as the conduit between members and government, as well as the Returned and Services League of Australia.

Joint winners of Volunteer of the Year were Michael Sharpe and Robert ‘Bob’ Ihlein.

Sharpe is an active member of the Central Coast community, a dedicated volunteer and a proven leader.

Throughout his life, he has supported several community organisations including schools, fire brigades and many charity organisations and has built a longstanding partnership with the Gosford Regional Gallery.

He has been involved with over 18 services and is a board member of many groups that support the community.

Groups he is involved with include Freemasons on the Central Coast Charity, Central Coast Australian Olympic Team Fund, Central Coast Local Health District and Lifeline Hunter and Central Coast.

Ihlein is a Vietnam veteran and was part of the RAE construction group during his military service in Vietnam, Papua New Guinea and Australia.

Over time he has held senior volunteer positions with the RSL and the Men’s Shed movement.

He has been a member of The Entrance Men’s Shed since before its official opening in 2009, holding the position of president.

He also volunteers his spare time coordinating Overwatch, a suicide watch program for current and former defence force personnel.

Julie Redfern was highly commended in the Volunteer of the Year category.

Source: Media release, Jan 24 Central Coast Council

Joint Volunteer of the Year Robert ‘Bob’ Ihlein

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Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

2023 kicks off with Australia Day Awards

Happy new year, Central Coast community!

I hope you were able to take a break over the holiday period and enjoy some time with your families and friends.

2023 is already in full swing, with this year’s Australia Day Awards held earlier this week. At the beginning of each year, Council celebrates the achievements and contributions of prominent local community members through these awards. On Monday 23 January, ten locals received Australia Day honours, including Mr Ryan Wilson, who was named Citizen of the Year.

Mr Wilson, a tradesman, developed the idea for Free Trade Day after attending a typical household callout and becoming aware that the gentleman had been without hot water for some time due to a broken hot water system that he could not afford to fix.

This thought kick-started Free Trade Day as a solution to supporting locals in need through generosity and community spirit.

Today, Free Trade Day conducts hundreds of jobs across the Coast each year with over 300 volunteers and countless more businesses coming on board every day!

The calibre of the 50+ award nominees this year was outstanding, which is a testament to the depth of talent and community spirit we have on the Coast.

To read about all the winners and nominees, search ‘Australia Day 2023 winners’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s on?

Draft Plan of Management for Community Land on exhibition

A draft Plan of Management for Council Community Land is currently on public exhibition.

Our community is encouraged to view the plans online at yourvoiceourcoast.com and have their say by 1 March 2023.

Koori Knockout returns to the Coast in 2023

Public hearings are also being held at Wyong (1, 8 Feb), The Entrance (2 Feb), Erina (6 Feb) and Woy Woy (7 Feb), with registrations now open.

We are pleased to have won the bid to host the NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout at the Central Coast Regional Sporting and Recreation Complex in partnership with the Newcastle All Blacks team, who took out the title in 2022. This is the state’s largest annual Indigenous sporting event, which will be held on the October long weekend.

To view the draft Plan, go to yourvoiceourcoast. com/POMcommunityland

To find out more, search ‘Koori Knockout 2023’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Program to improve sense of safety

Ready, set...play!

For more information, search ‘safer cities’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

For more information, search ‘playspace news’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council is to participate in Transport for NSW’s $30M Safer Cities program, to make public spaces, including streets and public transport hubs, safer for women, girls and gender diverse people. Have your say about the experiences that have affected your sense of safety in and around public spaces and transport hubs.

Go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events

Seniors Festival 2023

Celebrate seniors together! Meet new people and connect with local community groups, services providers, and more. There are plenty of activities, workshops and events across 1 to 12 February 2023.

A highlight of the Festival is Council’s FREE Seniors Expo, on Thursday 9 Feb at Wyong Race Club.

To see the schedule and find out more, search ‘seniors festival’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events

We have upgraded six playspaces with new and engaging equipment in 2022: Avoca Beach (Ross Park), Mardi (Woolmers Cres), East Gosford (Hylton Moore Oval), North Avoca (Palm Gully Park), Pretty Beach (Turo Reserve) and Saratoga (Jirramba Ave).

Hop around the coast and visit them all! Funding by the Australian Government.

Did you know?

School is back

Schools start to re-open from Friday 27 January 2023, which means that 40km per hour school zones will be back in force before and after school.

Please slow down around schools, and when you see the lights flash on the back of buses - as it’s a warning that they’re dropping off or picking up children.

For more information, search ‘road safety’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council Office 2 Hely St Wyong | 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday | P 02 4306 7900 | W centralcoast.nsw.gov.au CentralCoastCouncil

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New facilities at Macmasters and Wamberal Macmasters Beach and Wamberal Beach now boast better bathroom facilities thanks to more than $848,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch inspects the new facilities at Macmasters Beach

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said it was fantastic to see the community facilities up and running ready for the busy Christmas and Summer School Holiday period.

“It is important that beach goers right across our region have access to quality bathroom

facilities while visiting one of our fantastic beaches,” he said.

“I would like to thank Central Coast Council for taking the time to put in the applications and ensuring that these important works were complete ahead of the school holiday period.”

The upgraded facilities include three unisex toilets, a unisex accessible toilet and two unisex ambulant toilets.

One changeroom and a family room with a toilet and outdoor showers have also been added as part of the upgrade.

“Included in the upgrade, at Macmasters Beach we have

been able to include a new storage area for Macmasters Beach Boardriders Club, providing them with a space to store training and competition equipment on site,” Crouch said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the project was made possible by the Stronger Country Communities Fund, which continues to benefit the everyday lives of people living in regional NSW. “The Stronger Country Communities Fund is already making a real difference to people right across regional

NSW, with work commencing, underway or completed on more than 2,000 projects in every local government area across regional NSW,” Toole said.

“TheWamberal and Macmaster Beach toilet projects are the kind of projects that make our communities stronger by giving people the amenities that allows them to spend more time out and about.”

For more information, visit: nsw.gov.au/sccf.

Source: Media release, Jan 19 Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch

$70M more for Avoca Dr upgrade The Federal Government has announced $70M in additional funding for the Avoca Dr upgrade through Kincumber, in addition to the $30M it pledged in the lead up to last year’s Federal election.

With its total funding commitment now $100M, the Government will partner with the NSW Government to deliver the project.

The project will improve safety and reduce congestion on Avoca Dr including widening the section between the Carrak

Rd and Killuna Rd intersections.

This will create a safer road for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid announced the latest funding alongside Labor colleagues Federal Member for Dobell Emma McBride, State Shadow Minister for the Central Coast David Harris, Labor Candidate for the State seat of Terrigal Sam Boughton and Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King.

“Avoca Dri through Kincumber is an important arterial road for workers and families during busy peak-hour periods,” Reid said.

“The drive through this road becomes a slow crawl in those periods and this upgrade will allow for a widened road.

“Once the upgrade is completed, the road will provide safer and faster journeys for Central Coast residents in Kincumber and surrounding suburbs.

“I look forward to continuing to identify infrastructure across

the Central Coast that the Government can make important investments in.”

King said the government remained committed to working collaboratively with state, territory and local governments towards Vision Zero: zero deaths and serious injuries by 2050.

“Upgrading Avoca Dr will make this busy road safer for residents and visitors alike,” she said.

Verified source: Media release, Jan 20, 2024 Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

Federal Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, Minister Catherine King, State candidate for Terrigal Sam Boughton, Shadow Minister David Harris and Member for Dobell Emma McBride

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Busy year for sister city association After two years of disruption from COVID, the Gosford Sister City Association has a busy schedule for 2023 with two events planned to celebrate the close relationship between the Central Coast and Edogawa, Japan.

Both events will take place at the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, one in March and the other in October.

“We were pleased to receive funding from Central Coast

Council to deliver these community events,” a spokesperson said.

“Plans are well underway for our first event on March 26, with activities for all the family.

“Both events will showcase the Edogawa Commemorative Gardens which were gifted by Edogawa City to Gosford City in 1994.“ The garden is based on a traditional ‘shuyu’ (strolling style) garden, incorporating Japanese features.

With meandering pathways, a roofed Japanese pavilion overlooking the koi pond, raked dry stone garden and traditional Japanese teahouse, the garden offers a tranquil setting in which to relax and enjoy art and nature.

The Gosford Sister City Association will also support a Youth Wing visit from Edogawa City, with Japanese students visiting the Central Coast in August.

The first Gosford Sister City

Committee was established in 1985.

Over the past 35 years, the group has worked to support and foster Sister City relationships with Edogawa, Japan, and Nitra, Slovakia.

New members are always welcome.

For more information email gosfordsistercity@gmail.com.

Source: Media release, Jan 23 Gosford Sister City Association

The Edogawa Commemorative Garden

More than $780,000 for surf club upgrades More than $780,000 will be spent to upgrade, restore and improve six surf clubs on the Central Coast as part of the NSW Government’s Surf Club Facility Program.

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said money would help the clubs to create more modern, accessible facilities and ensure lifesavers have what they need to keep the community safe.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said a busy summer period highlights why our local surf clubs must be modern and fit-for-purpose.

“We have some of the most beautiful and popular beaches on the Central Coast, and it is crucial our surf clubs have the facilities they need to protect both visitors and locals on our beaches,” he said.

“Projects funded locally in this round include infrastructure redevelopments and amenity upgrades to surf club facilities at Copacabana, Avoca Beach, MacMasters Beach, Killcare, Toowoon Bay and North Entrance.”

Surf Life Saving NSW President George Shales said ensuring surf clubs across NSW are maintained and upgraded is vitally important.

“Our volunteers deserve safe, accessible, and secure facilities in order to train new lifesavers and support the community,” Shales said.

“Many surf life saving clubs have been on the frontline in the last year, responding to incidents and emergencies including the recent flood disaster, and they need to be able to safely store and access vital rescue equipment at short notice.”

Copacabana Surf Lifesaving Club will receive $386,554 for works including; a new, larger first aid room created under the existing patrol tower; a new multi-purpose room for

training, education and community meetings; and an expanded café.

Avoca Beach Surf Lifesaving Club will use its grant of $141,554 for upgrades include new basins, taps, benches, lighting, waterproofing, and an integrated baby change table.

It will also improve accessibility on the ground floor with a new auto door, nonslip foyer and stair flooring.

The club will also receive $31,364 to construct a secure awning over the club’s existing driveway and remove a temporary shipping container to provide sufficient storage space for the ABSLSC Nipper

program.

MacMasters Beach Surf Lifesaving Club has been granted $53,715 to: upgrade the sewer pump system in the bathroom; change to an electric hot water system to make use of solar panels on the roof; upgrade flooring; repaint the internal clubhouse; and install and cabinetry in storage areas.

Killcare Surf Lifesaving Club will receive $34,090 to replace its gas-boosted solar hot water system with an electric boosted solar hot water system.

Two shower mixers in the club’s disabled bathroom will also be installed to treat people for marine stings.

Toowoon Bay Surf Lifesaving Club has been granted $99,000 for the construction of a weatherproof awning over the kiosk, first aid room and designated emergency evacuation area to increase safety in all weather conditions.

North Entrance Surf Lifesaving Club will use its grant of $34,080 to replace the club’s rusted steel awning and repair the cracked concrete deck.

Exposed steel rods will also be removed, replaced and treated for rust.

Source: Media release, Jan 25 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch

Join us in celebrating World Wetlands Day 2023 at the Central Coast Wetlands

Breakfast with the Birds

A fun-filled day for the whole family. Enjoy a guided bird walk with Central Coast Group Birding NSW, followed by a delicious breakfast and wetland talks.

From 10am take part in a range of activities, including: Dip-netting for water bugs, tree planting and an indigenous workshop with local curator, Tracie Howie.

8am to 12pm Sunday 5 February 2023 Central Coast Wetlands, Pioneer Dairy South Tacoma Rd, Tuggerah

$8 incl. delicious breakfast (kids under 4 free) Bookings are essential (RSVP 5pm 31st Jan 2023) To register, visit: www.cen.org.au/events For more information, phone 4349 4757 Don’t forget to bring a fold up chair.

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13 Coasties recognised in Thirteen Central Coast residents were among 1047 people recognized in this year’s Australia Day Honours List for activities ranging from services to the disabled and the community to contributions to sport, veteran welfare and the law.

Governor-General David Hurley said all recipients have had a significant impact at the local, national and international level and were inspiring.

“They go above and beyond, are from all over the country, and contribute every day in every way imaginable,” he said.

“These are the people who see us through good times and bad.

“They’re the first to show up and the last to leave.

“They’re almost always humble to a fault … (but) it’s important they know how much they are valued.”

Anne Craig OAM of Ourimbah – service to the performing arts

Anne Craig OAM

Anne Craig is a former stage manager, production manager and producer for Laycock Theatre Productions.

She said she wanted to share the honour with her late husband, Don Craig, the initial manager of Laycock St Community Theatre. “(For 10 years) from 1988 the variety and standard of productions at Laycock Street Theatre remain extremely memorable,” she said.

“Included in that period were several ‘in-house’ productions (which) attracted a wide audience, were consistently supported and afforded local talent on the Central Coast an opportunity to develop under the guidance of professional directors, choreographers, set designers and musicians.

“Aside from Government Bicentennial Grants that financed the construction of the facility, the Central Coast community had a philosophical dedication to the theatre’s growth and success.

“We were all united in our endeavours to bring the best entertainment possible to the stage of Laycock St Theatre and, as a group, we were always inspired by the vision, enthusiasm, and dedication of Don Craig.”

Joseph Galea OAM of The Entrance North –service to the Maltese community of NSW

Joseph Galea OAM

When he was 10 years old Joseph Galea came to Australia from Malta and he discovered in later years that his prowess as a Maltese folk musician and singer was an entertaining way to bring the Maltese community together.

“It started back in 1975 when I had my own band and the Maltese Council of NSW decided to hold a concert and they asked me to play some Maltese folklore music on my guitar,” he said.

“When I started singing they stormed the stage, crying and becoming emotional, and it was obvious there was a lot of need for the people to connect again with their old country.

“In 1983 I was asked to help organise the musical entertainment for a gala concert at the Opera House to commemorate 100 years of Maltese migrants and also record a Maltese folklore song to tell the story of the Maltese migrant community in Australia.”

Galea is a member of the Maltese Historical Association and was Chair of the Maltese Cultural Association Choir from 1990 to 2003.

For 14 years he has been

Peter Simpson OAM

Dianne Lindsay-Simpson OAM

vice-president of the Past Pupils and Friends of Don Bosco NSW, named for the school he attended in Malta, and a fundraising organisation which donates directly to under-privileged overseas communities.

Fame – and in 2014 both Peter and Dianne were inducted to the Country Music Hands of Fame Park in Tamworth.

“I was in the military most of my life – Air Force from 1966 to 1997 – so I wasn’t able to do my music professionally all that time but in the past 20 years I’ve made up for that,” Peter said.

The lead guitarist songwriter represents balladeers as a Board Member of the Australian Country Music Foundation and took out the Australian Bush Balladeers Association’s bush ballad award in 2021.

Since 2015 Dianne and Peter have put together the Back to the Bush Spectacular at Tamworth, also available on Youtube, and for the past 12 years recorded The Australian Bush Ballad Show from their home studio in Gwandalan which is syndicated through a Gosford radio station around Australia and New Zealand.

“We’re very passionate about our Australian bush ballads and we think it’s very important to keep those rolling because they tell the story about people and their land, they record our history and help maintain our culture,” Peter said.

“The awards are just a lovely thing to happen to us and we intend to make sure that the wonderful genre of bush ballads doesn’t fade away and continue the stories of Australia in song and music.”

Dianne Lindsay-Simpson OAM and Peter Simpson OAM of Gwandalan–service to the performing arts as entertainers It’s especially fitting that Gwandalan husband and wife team Dianne Lindsay-Simpson and Peter Simpson have both been awarded Australia Day honours, as Australiana in music and song is their heart and soul.

“Australia Day is a very important day for us and music-wise as well, to promote Australian music especially traditional style music – it’s just so special that both of us have been awarded this honour at the same time,” Dianne said.

With several nominations over the years for a Golden Guitar at the Tamworth Country Music Festival the couple performed as one of five finalists in the Bush Ballad of the Year this year – a song called Family Tree about Dianne’s country music heritage, a three-way collaboration with fellow Central Coast country musician, Rob McCormack.

Singer songwriter Dianne is the daughter of Reg Lindsay and Heather McKean and the niece of Slim Dusty and his wife Joy McKean – all considered royalty in the country music business.

Heather and Joy were wellknown in their day as the McKean Sisters.

Dianne won the Tamworth People’s Choice Female Vocal Award five times; in 2011 she was inducted in the American Old Time Country Music Hall of

Pauline Maniskas OAM of Wamberal – service to the community of the Central Coast Pauline Maniskas believes that disabled people should enjoy full inclusion and has had a 22-year association with Camp Breakaway, where she has been a Board Director since 2019.

“I started as a personal carer and then moved on to

programming activities and organising campers,” she said.

“When the NDIS came in there was a lot of work and I’ve been there just about every day for the past three years.”

She is also a founding member and secretary of Central Coast Disabled Surfers Association of Australia, which started in 2005.

“I had never heard of the organisation, but I swim in the ocean most days and I thought disabled people should be able to do that too,” she said.

Maniskas is active at the group’s regular surf days and also travels to other branches to help out.

Pauline Maniskas OAM

She has volunteered with Our Lady Star of the Sea, Terrigal, for 30 years and is also a volunteer with Youth Off the Streets.

She said she was “dumbstruck” by the award and accepted it on behalf of every volunteer on the Coast.

Dr Michael Mitchelmore OAM of Copacabana – service to mathematics education and the community

work.

Born in the UK, Mitchelmore has lived in Australia for 32 years and said he was very excited at being awarded an OAM. At Macquarie University he has been an Honorary Associate Professor in the arts faculty since 2012, a Director, Centre for Research in Mathematics and Science Education, an Associate Professor of Education and a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics.

He has also been involved with numerous other organisations and the NSW Department of Education’s Count Me Into Space numeracy program and has been the lead author on 19 books.

Mitchelmore was also a Founding Board Member of the Kuringai Youth Orchestra, a member of the Sydney Philharmonia Choir, a performer with Central Coast Opera, treasurer of Central Coast Conservatorium (2015-2019) and a volunteer with Gosford Theatre Company since 2015.

He is especially proud of his work as leader of the committee which agitated for a Men’s Shed at Copacabana, which has just been built after six years of advocacy.

Anthony Mylan OAM of Wamberal – service to the community, to youth and to education For the Rotary Club of West Gosford, Anthony Mylan has held various roles since 1998 and for Rotary District 9680 he was Assistant District Governor from 2004-2006.

He has been a member of Terrigal Trotters Running Club since 1993 and was the Founding Race Director for the Bay to Bay Fun Run from 20042006.

His most proud achievement is being CEO of ET Australia since 1994 and Founding

Michael Mitchelmore OAM

A love of mathematics and music has seen Michael Mitchelmore enjoy an outstanding career in the mathematical field and a host of community involvement, particularly involving choral

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Anthony Mylan OAM

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Australia Day Honours Principal of ET Australia Secondary College in Gosford since 2013.

The college offers students a fresh start in a Year 7-12 independent high school which is different to traditional schools.

“Established a decade ago, the college is now a school of first choice, having many advantages over larger schools,” he said.

Other involvements include: Jobs Australia, CASAR Park Motorsport Precinct, Wheelchair Foundation Australia, Job Futures, Parkside Gosford, Central Coast Local Employer Council and Community Compass Incorporated.

He was Chair of the Wyong Local Advisory Group from 2010-2013.

Clint Newton OAM of Avoca Beach – service to rugby league

Clint Newton OAM

Clint Newton counts playing his first game in first grade as one of his career highlights.

“I always loved the game so much – I loved the camaraderie and I loved what it gave me as a person,” he said.

He went on to play 112 games for the Newcastle Knights, 15 games for the Melbourne Storm, including the

Premiership in 2007, 100 games for Hull Kingston Rovers in the English Rugby Super League and 46 games for the Penrith Panthers.

But it his work with the Australian Rugby League Players Association of which he is most proud.

He has been CEO and Managing Director since 2020 after holding several other offices and being and a Board Member since 2013 and from 2004-07 before going to England.

“It has been a good chance to give back – having the opportunity to give players and their families much improved terms and conditions not just financially but away from the field,” he said.

While being awarded an OAM was a “significant” achievement”, he said he acknowledged and understood the significance of January 26 for First Nations people.

“We have a responsibility to show our empathetic support towards Indigenous communities; for many it is a day of great sadness,” he said.

John Stavert OAM of Brooklyn – service to the communities of Hornsby and Brooklyn (Not available for comment) For Hornsby Diabetes Support Group John Stavert has been a member since 1993 and President and Coordinator for 20 years.

He has been a volunteer with Brooklyn Rural Fire Brigade since 19881, including stints as Deputy Captain and Senior Deputy Captain and served with Cowan Rural Fire Brigade in 1994-45.

He has received several awards from Scouts NSW and has been a volunteer piano

tutor with Wesley Mission since 2019.

He is also a former volunteer with Brooklyn Community Health Centre and Hawkesbury River Sailing Club.

Stuart Tipple OAM of Terrigal – service to the law

Stuart Tipple OAM

Stuart Tipple was a member of the legal defence team for Michael Chamberlain and Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton through several trials, appeals and inquests and was involved in the Royal Commission into the convictions of the Chamberlains in 1986.

He has been a Principal and Lawyer with Stuart Tipple Law since 2017 and was a Partner with Brennan Blair and Tipple Partners from 1980-2015.

He is also: a former President, Central Coast Law Society; Member, Law Society of NSW since 1979; Volunteer, Wills preparation, Wills Promotion Day, Salvation Army; Legal Advisor, Legacy NSW and War Widows Guild of NSW. He volunteered on humanitarian missions from 1991-2012 and has been a Board Member of the Adventist Development and Relief Association.

Despite receiving numerous accolades in the field of the

law, he said his greatest achievement had been being able to help people who can’t help themselves.

“I got so much satisfaction out of helping widows who couldn’t afford legal services,” he said.

“Sometimes they paid with a fruit cake, sometimes with a thank you letter.”

Tipple said his wife Cherie, family members and the people he works with have made his successes possible.

John Wade OAM of Terrigal – service to the community through charitable organisations (Not available for comment) John Wade has made his mark in the business world as: the owner of Sunpak Fruit Juice (1972-1988); owner/operator of Sunrise Juice, 1976; owner/ operator, Big O, 1977; owner, Castle Detergents, 1980-1986; and owner, Snackbrands Pty Ltd, 2008-2018.

He has offered philanthropic support to Vietnam Veterans of 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, and is a volunteer member of Brisbane Water Legacy.

He has also done philanthropic work with: Coachstop Caravan Park, Hunter New England Health; Rock Art Australia; and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute.

Peter White OAM of Wamberal – service to veterans and to the community Having been in the Army for 27 years, Peter White joined the Returned Services League of Australia in 1980, working initially with the Berowra branch.

For Terrigal Wamberal SubBranch he has been President

Peter White OAM

(2015-2020), Senior VicePresident, Pensions Advocate for 10 years and a member since 2004.

“I have been particularly involved with the dawn service at Terrigal and we have developed it quite a bit over the years; it is now supported incredibly by the community,” he said.

White has been President and Commandant of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport Association in NSW and the Australian Capital Territory.

A member of Matcham Holgate Brigade of the Rural Fire Service from 1989-2018, he has served as Vice-President and Deputy Captain.

“I first joined as a way to get to know people and being involved with a disciplined group helped me transition from the Army,” he said.

While his role was largely administrative, he was involved in hands-on activity in the large fires of 1994 around Somersby.

Peter Woodhouse OAM of Noraville– service to veterans Vice-president of Wyong RSL Sub-branch, Peter Woodhouse, has been recognised for his service to veterans.

The 83-year-old from Noraville has held various committee positions in the

sub-branch since he joined 24 years ago in 1999, including social secretary, trustee and now vice-president.

In his younger years Woodhouse was in the Army with the transport unit and catering corps and has been awarded the Australian Defence Medal for his service.

“I’ve been a member of the RSL Club for many years and I was always friendly with a lot of the old veterans there and then one day someone asked me to join the sub-branch,” he said.

Peter Woodhouse OAM

“I got really involved and it’s been very interesting and some of the things have been helping with the Anzac Day services and volunteering to go around to the schools.”

Before his involvement with Wyong Sub-branch, Woodhouse spent about 10 years from 1972 with Soldiers Beach Surf Life Saving Club where he was patrol captain for seven years and became a life member in 1982.

“This Australia Day award is very unexpected, I feel very honoured and quite surprised,” he said.

Terry Collins and Sue Murray

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Fire damage at Erina toy store Gosford Fire and Rescue crews were called out on Sunday, January 22 to extinguish a fire at Casey’s Toys in Karralta Rd, Erina.

Fire damage was contained to one side of the store and some furniture as well as smoke damage to the remainder of the building.

The store will reopen as soon

as possible following the clean-up.

This is only the second firerelated accident at Casey’s Toys Erina since it opened 40 years ago, with the other occurring in 2012 when fire razed the entire complex.

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Man in custody after dramatic police chase A dramatic road and air chase ended at Forresters Beach when a stolen vehicle hit a police car and flipped on Crystal St. The 33-year-old driver refused to get out of the car but after a short struggle, and the use of pepper spray and tasers, police successfully apprehended the man.

It all began at about 7.30pm on Saturday, January 21, when officers from Brisbane Water Police District were called to a shopping centre in Green Point

after a woman reported she’d been held against her will by a man who then stole her SUV. Acting on information provided, police saw the vehicle on James Sea Dr at Green Point, and a pursuit was initiated when the driver allegedly failed to stop when directed.

Police followed the vehicle through Central Coast suburbs where it allegedly reached speeds of up to 120km/h in a 60km/h zone.

The SUV allegedly struck a ute on Terrigal Dr at Erina a short time later; the female driver was shaken but not injured.

Police Airwing, PolAir 4, was called to assist and tracked the vehicle to a roundabout at the intersection of Central Coast Highway and Crystal St, Forresters Beach, where it hit a police vehicle and rolled on to its side.

The driver was taken into custody after a short struggle during which OC spray and a taser were deployed to affect the arrest.

The 33-year-old man was taken to Gosford Police Station, where NSW Ambulance paramedics treated him for minor injuries believed to have been sustained in the crash.

The man is being held in police custody while inquiries continue.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers. com.au.

Source: NSW Police Media

New squad to tackle organised crime The NSW Police Force’s Raptor Squad will now have a permanent base in the region to target and dismantle organised criminal groups.

Fire crews at Casey’s Toys in Erina

Investigation into sex offence at Gorokan Detectives from Tuggerah Lakes Police District are investigating an alleged sexual touching offence of a 74-year-old Gorokan woman.

It was reported that about 2.30pm to 3pm on Sunday, January 22, an unknown man entered a unit complex at the corner of Wallarah Rd and Dudley St, Gorokan.

Police said the man knocked on one of the unit doors and the 74-year-old woman victim opened the door to the unknown man.

He stepped inside the unit and inquired if a person by the name of Lyn lived there, and the woman said no one by that name resided there.

The woman told Police that the man said his name was Steven or Steve, offered some money, and then allegedly

touched her inappropriately before leaving.

The man was last seen heading away from the unit complex towards Dudley St, Gorokan.

He is described as Caucasian in appearance, 50-70 years old, medium build, bald head, with a large scar at his missing right ear.

The man was last seen wearing a long-sleeved grey T-shirt and blue jeans.

Anyone with information about this incident or knows the man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers. com.au and quote the Police report No. E75757325.

Source: Tuggerah Lakes Police

The squad will be based in the Hunter region, with capability to deploy throughout all Northern NSW, targeting criminal networks on the Central Coast, the Mid North Coast and Coffs Harbour and towards the NSWQLD border.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad has officially

launched Raptor North in response to operational needs and intelligence surrounding organised crime.

“Raptor North will comprise of 29 experienced staff – led by an Inspector with local knowledge – with assistance from investigators, Operations Support Group (OSG) operatives, and Traffic and Highway Patrol officers,” Crouch said.

“Since July, we’ve boosted total Raptor numbers by 30 with police now able to mobilise a Raptor North team of 29 dedicated positions and Raptor South of 25 positions.

“These squads are sending a clear message to organised crime networks thinking they can slip under the radar or spread their tentacles in the region: Raptor is watching and the only part of the regions they’ll see is the inside of one of our prisons.”

Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Police Paul Toole said Raptor North will continue to expand the proactive and disruptive tactics employed by the Sydneybased Raptor Squad.

“The Raptor name has become synonymous with dismantling organised crime in this state.

“Crime knows no boundaries,

and as our regional communities continue to grow, it is critical resources are directed to where they need to go to disrupt these networks,” he said.

Raptor North covers 11 police districts including Brisbane Water and Tuggerah Lakes.

The command conducts proactive investigations and intelligence-based, high-impact policing operations to prevent and disrupt conflicts, and dismantle any network engaged in serious organised criminal activity.

Source: Media release, Jan 23 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch

Double demerits in force until Sunday Operation Australia Day will see double demerits applied for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.

Traffic and Highway Patrol officers, with assistance from Police Area Commands and Police Districts, will be deployed across all metropolitan and regional areas in NSW, to keep the community safe over the busy period.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Trent King, said with Australia Day falling on a

Thursday, police expect a lot of people on the roads from Wednesday and across the weekend.

“With double demerits in place over five days we urge everyone to remember the consequences if you do the wrong thing behind the wheel,” he said.

“While police will be doing everything in their power to work with the community to keep our roads safe, we also want to advise motorists that everyone has a role to play.

“Inside each and every vehicle you pass on the road is a loved one: a mate, a mother, a father, child or a sibling – and we can all take steps to keep them out of harm’s way.”

Head of Safety at Transport for NSW Peter Dunphy said although the road toll currently stands at 13, which is seven less than for the same time last year, it is important motorists don’t become complacent.

“Keeping safe on the roads is everyone’s responsibility, so please make sure you’re well rested before you set off, stick to

the speed limit and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, put the phone away and never ever drive if you’re affected by drugs or alcohol,” he said.

“Motorists should also remember that school zones are back in force from Friday, January 27, and it is especially important to slow down and take care in school zones at school times – even if you cannot see children near the road.”

Source: Media release, Jan 24 NSW Police

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Adam CROUCH STATE MEMBER FOR

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This year, Round Two of this grant has invested $1.98 million into local businesses to create 128 new, ongoing, full-time jobs. Not only does this support our regional workforce, but it ensures the growth and longevity of local businesses.

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A total of $9.24 million has been invested across the first and second rounds, totalling to 553 new positions for the Central Coast, supporting our regional economy.

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Ratepayers prop up incompetent management I applaud Kevin Brooks’s letter (CCN374), “An Analysis of Central Coast Council Under Administration”.

It is excellent and truly reflects the sad state of our Council.

When the previous councillors were suspended and subsequently dismissed after the public inquiry, I naively thought that we would be better off under an administrator; alas, that has not happened.

I would have thought that Administrator (Rik) Hart would have tried to remedy the amalgamation mess not by slugging ratepayers with exorbitant rent increases (42 per cent for old Gosford shire),

FORUM See Page 2 for address and contribution conditions.

Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily of the newspaper but by increased productivity from the amalgamated councils.

However, he took the easy way out, succeeded with his IPART submission and slugged the ratepayers.

But now IPART states that only 41 per cent of the money

is earmarked for the debt repayment.

So where is the other 59 per cent going to?

Mr Hart and the CEO have now been at the helm for two years and the only thing they have to show for it is a reduction in debt not by skilful management but by increased rates to the detriment of the ratepayers.

In reality, the ratepayers are being used to prop up an incompetent management.

Mr Brooks has written a wellbalanced letter and should be applauded for speaking up.

Email, Jan 23 Mark Andrews, Wamberal

COVID death figure startling Watching a recent current affairs outline of the numbers of people being affected by COVID has been startling.

It was reported that during the first waves of COVID, 2000 people died.

This was considered a large number of people at the time and the reports seemed shocking.

FORUM Since the lifting of all restrictions, it has now been reported that 15,000 people have died from COVID. People are still getting COVID in large numbers and some people are also suffering from the effects of long COVID. Watching the tennis match between Novak Djokovic and

Alex de Minaur, one commentator announced that there were 15,000 people at the match.

Comparing that picture to the same number of people in Australia who have so far died from COVID was a sobering image.

Email, Jan 23 Wendy Baylis, Woy Woy

Council needs more investigation I refer to the excellent letter (CCN January 19) under the name of Kevin Brooks criticising Central Coast Council’s present administration.

Mr Brooks, whom I do not know, is right on the money.

The rates increase, supposedly temporary, and the

FORUM quantum of money approved

by IPART, certainly needs investigation.

Who is to do this? Ratepayers have to speak up.

Why were staff made redundant and now we are

employing more?

This … is typical Government bureaucracy at work; snow the ratepayers, feed them rubbish and continue to run an inefficient Council.

Well done Mr Brooks.

Email, Jan 22 Harold O’Keeffe, Avoca Beach

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Have your say on plan for community land

Austin Butler Reserve at Woy Woy - the pan covers ovals and parks

The Community Environment Network (CEN) is urging all residents to take a close look at Central Coast Council’s Draft Plan of Management (PoM) for community land and have a say.

The PoM, if adopted, will cover between 1800 and 2000 lots of land including playing fields, parks and bushland.

“The Council has said this is a housekeeping exercise but community land is our land and we think it is important that as many Central Coast residents as possible take the time to participate in this consultation,” CEN CEO Samantha Willis said.

“CEN will be preparing its own submission but we need as many individuals and community groups as possible to have a close look at the schedule of community land and make sure it is accurate and comprehensive.

“We are also encouraging our members to attend the information session and one of the public hearings.

“Central Coast Council under administration has already sold over $60M in assets since the end of 2020.

“That … was their target but they are continuing to sell assets.”

While it is illegal to sell

community land, Council is pushing ahead with the reclassification of community land to operational so it can be sold, Willis said.

“It has also said its review of property is ongoing and it will continue to sell property that is ‘surplus to needs’,” she said.

“We need you to let Council know how much we value our community land by participating in this process.”

Central Coast Council is required by the NSW Government to make sure that all the community land it owns is covered by a plan of management, with a need to update the plan in the wake of the 2016 amalgamation of the former Wyong and Gosford Councils.

Some locations will be excluded from the generic Plan of Management that is currently on exhibition and will have their own plans of management.

“CEN has already found it necessary to contact the Central Coast Council over its decision to withhold what we consider to be vital information from this consultation process,” Willis said.

“You will find a link to (the plan) on Council’s website that includes further links to all existing plans of management.

“When we returned to work on January 9 that link included

only those plans from the former Wyong Shire.

“Residents of the former Gosford Council (area) were told they would need to complete an informal Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application to get access to existing plans of management in their local area.

“We didn’t think that was good enough so we wrote to Council’s CEO David Farmer and we are pleased to report that all existing plans of management have since been made available, irrespective of whether you live in the north or the south of the Central Coast Local Government Area.

“However, members of the public are already alerting CEN to problems with the information currently on exhibition, including land missing from the schedule or not described accurately, so the community is encouraged to get involved in this process,” Willis said.

“Every little contribution helps.”

Council has extended the public exhibition period for an extra week until Tuesday, March 1.

Source: Media release, Jan 23 Community Environment Network

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High School Musical comes to Red Tree Theatre A scene from High School Musical

Jopuka Productions and Red Tree Theatre will launch the 2023 theatrical season with a coproduction of Disney’s hit musical High School Musical from January 2029.

Directed by Jopuka board and life member Tayah Blackman,

the production will be unlike version of the show you’ve ever seen before.

The show has been created over three weeks in January and will feature 70 of the Central Coast’s emerging artists.

“We are thrilled to be working with Red Tree Theatre on this

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exciting production,” Blackman said.

“Our version will create a fresh, modern take on this beloved classic, and we can’t wait to share it with audiences.

Red Tree Theatre board member Ruth Jordon said it was exciting to partner with Jopuka Productions

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“Tayah Blackman is an incredibly talented director, and we can’t wait to see what she, her team and the cast will bring to the stage,” Jordon said.

No stranger to the stage herself, Jordon will also be taking on the role of drama teacher Mrs Darbus in the

production.

The beloved story and iconic songs will have audiences of all ages singing and dancing along.

“Bring the whole family along for a fun-filled evening of entertainment,” Jordon said.

“Tickets are sure to sell out fast, so be sure to get yours

early.”

Performances will be held at the Red Tree Theatre from January 20-29.

For more information contact josh@jopuka.org.au.

Source: Media release, Jan 19 Jopuka Productions

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Celebrating life and career of Jeff Buckley World-class guitarist Gary Lucas is returning to Australian shores for a tour of his Jeff Buckley tribute show to be staged at The Art House in Wyong in March.

Buckley, 25 Years On is a celebration of and intimate insight into the music and life of one of music’s most cherished voices, Jeff Buckley.

Featuring close friend and collaborator, Grammynominated guitarist Gary Lucas, the show documents the story of a partnership which

Gary Lucas performing in Jeff Buckley tribute

resulted in the co-written anthems that form Buckley’s highly acclaimed 1994 debut album, Grace, a record which is still adored and played fullblast here on Australian soil.

The tour will take place off of the back of a similar run of shows across Europe and America in 2022, honouring the life and career of dear friend and collaborator, Jeff Buckley, who passed away in April of 1997.

Kicking off in March, Lucas, along with local Australian artists and guest vocalists, will

invite audiences to experience the music of Jeff Buckley, as well as the music that influenced his incredible yet too short a career.

Bringing together archival footage, stories, and performances, the show is an intimate celebration of a person, a musician, and the inspiration behind one of the most highly acclaimed albums of all time. Buckley, 25 Years On will be at The Art House, Wyong on Friday, March 3.

Source: The Art House, Wyong

Manpower at Central Coast Leagues Club Manpower Australia, Australia’s hugely successful male revue show also known as the Thunder from Down Under, will bring its Las Vegas stage show to the Central Coast in February.

The Australian phenomenon has been wowing audiences across the globe for over three decades.

The intimate stage production features chiselled bodies, seductive dance routines and cheeky humour.

From humble Queensland beginnings to international stardom the show has headlined on the Las Vegas strip performing nightly at the Excalibur Hotel and Casino.

Recently awarded the Keys to the City of Las Vegas, the show provides an unforgettable girls’

night out, hen’s party, birthday or celebration.

The tour kicks off on January 24, touring Queensland and various NSW venues before winding up with a huge night at Central Coast Leagues Club on February 19.

Booking details can be found at www.manpower.net.au.

Source: Media release, Dec 27 Manpower Australia

Manpower is headed for the Central Coast

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Frantastics back in full voice for 2023 The Frantastics Choir is set to begin its 2023 season with a repertoire including a Seekers medley, Puttin’ on the Ritz, I still call Australia Home, a Gershwin medley and an hilarious short melodrama.

Director Fran Kendall said the choir is back in full voice following three years of COVID disruptions and meets on Mondays during school termsfor socialising and singing.

“Many close friendships have developed over the years and new members are always welcomed warmly,” she said.

Kendall, who has been involved in local theatre both as an actor and director for many years, said audience involvement was her highest priority.

“Looking at folders with eyes down is definitely discouraged,” she said.

The Frantastics

“My mantra is ‘Mondays are for the choir, performances are for our audiences’.

“Many members live alone and the impact of COVID cut

them off from the warmth and stimulation of choir activities.

“Once restrictions eased a little, a monthly lunch at a local club and small-group afternoon

teas at my home were instigated.”

Kendall said choir members come from all over the Coast and the choir has been

entertaining for more than 13 years, with a couple of performances at Laycock St Community Theatre seeing full houses.

“Choir numbers have fluctuated over the years, but many members have been with the choir from the very beginning,” she said.

“All members are retired and have much in common, having reached their senior years.

“No auditions are held – everyone can sing.”

Kendall said the choir was eager to entertain residents at nursing homes and aged care facilities all over the Coast with a few bookings for entertainment at local venues/ facilities left for the year.

For more information go to www.frantastics.org.

The first meeting for the year will be at 12.30 pm on Monday, January 30, at the Walter Baker Hall, corner Victoria/Blackwall Rds, Woy Woy. Terry Collins

Badloves return to Avoca Beach Theatre One of Australia’s most renowned R&B and soul bands, The Badloves, will perform at Avoca Beach Theatre on Friday, February 3, with support band King Canyon featuring Jimmy Cupples.

Last October The Badloves were lined up to perform at the theatre with King Canyon when lead singer Michael Spiby tested positive for COVID-19 at the 11th hour.

“With almost no voice and obvious restrictions he was unable to fly from Melbourne

Lead singer Michel Spiby

and perform for his fans,” a band spokesperson said.

“The show went on regardless, with a movement of players and singers, including Peter Cupples flying in from Queensland to perform some of The Badloves songs for ticket holders who chose to see the show.

“Others were refunded their tickets.

“Now Michael and The Badloves are returning to Avoca, along with King Canyon, to give the locals the performance they have all been

looking forward to.”

“I felt so bad having to let our fans down with such short notice, due to testing positive 24 hours before the show date,” Spilby said.

“I will make it up to everyone and look forward to performing all of our chart hits including Green Limousine , Lost, The Weight, Caroline and Memphis.”

Tickets for the show are available via Humantix.

Source: Media release, Jan 25 The Badloves

Pets Day Out returns to Coast The Central Coast Pets Day Out event will return on Saturday, February 18, offering an exciting day out for pets, their owners and anyone considering pet ownership.

Last year’s inaugural event, Responsible Pet Ownership, was well received by the community and this year’s event is set to be even better, with over 20 local businesses hosting stalls and demonstrations on the day.

Highlights will include: free mini dog massages; doggie walking groups; low-cost vaccinations; free pet microchipping and vet checks; best dressed and best trick dog competition; pet treats, toys, outfits and more; and food and drink stalls.

Central Coast Council Director Environment and Planning Alice Howe said the event is a great way to celebrate pets, while remembering our responsibilities as pet owners.

“With a program of exciting stalls and fun competitions, as well as important demonstrations and access to expert advice around training, socialisation and preparing your pet for an emergency, we encourage pet owners and potential pet owners to attend,” Howe said.

“SoCares will attend the event once again to provide free microchipping and a check-your-chip service, while the Animal Welfare League will offer free health checks, lowcost vaccinations and pet care advice.

“By offering free pet

The event will include a host of free and low-cost activities

microchipping, we hope to continue to increase the number of microchipped pets across the Central Coast so we can continue to reunite pets with their owners should they become lost.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said pets play a huge role in many local families’ lives and provide companionship, social interaction and a sense of security.

“We know how much locals

love their pets and this event is the perfect way to celebrate how much they mean to us, whilst also socialising with other pets and pet owners from across the region,” he said.

“I encourage locals to come

down and take advantage of the important pet-related services on offer at the event, as well as those considering bringing a new pet into their home and wanting to gain practical information and advice about pet ownership.”

Residents are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends on the day, but dogs must be on a lead and cats must be contained.

The event will tgake place from 9am-3pm on Saturday, February 18, at Terilbah Reserve, Wilfred Barrett Dr, The Entrance North.

For further information about this event search ‘pets day out’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.

Source: Media release, Jan 23 Central Coast Council

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Catch Jamie Lindsay in Rockin’ the Puburbs grand final Central Coast performer Jamie Lindsay will be one of five acts to compete in the grand final of the Rockin’ the Puburbs band competition at Coogee on February 23.

Lindsay, who kicked off his career as one of the Top 10 finalists in the prestigious Tamworth Country Music Festival’s Star Maker competition, will be joined by Dande and The Lion from Manly, LamBros. From the Northern Beaches, Roar Sky Harvey from Marrickville and Wicked Things from Sydney’s Inner West.

As an industry, live music also accounts for 65,000 full-time and part-time jobs across the country and according to expert studies, for every dollar spent on live music, three dollars of benefit is returned to the wider community.

With COVID-19 costing the live music industry around $1.4B,local pubs are supporting its resurgence.

This year, the Australian Hotels Association NSW has taken a new approach to its Rockin’ the Puburbs band comp, including a live grand final at Selina’s Entertainment

Jamie Lindsay

Centre within the Coogee Bay Hotel.

“We felt it was important this year to make sure that the connection between live music and local pubs played an

important role in the campaign,” AHA NSW Director Liquor and Policing John Green said.

“In past years the competition has been mostly online but post-pandemic, it’s never been

more important to support our live music industry in every way possible.

“One of the best ways to do that is with boots on the ground – turning up at gigs.

“So for us, it made sense to do this live and what better place than Selina’s which has been showcasing some of the country’s best live music acts for decades.”

Sideliners

“Get yourself back in the game!”

A wellbeing program for young people when suspended from High School

RYSS One 3 One Youth Hub is dedicated to helping improve the lives of vulnerable young people and families by supporting their wellbeing, mental health, resilience, and employability for individuals living on the Central Coast.

A place for community engagement while also allowing RYSS and partnering services to better connect with young people through early intervention RYSS One 3 One Youth Hub is dedicated to helping improve the lives of strategies

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DO YOU KNOW A YOUNg PERSON WHO IS REQUIRING WELLBEING SUPPORT?

vulnerable young people by supporting their wellbeing, mental health, resilience, and employability. The Youth Hub runs FREE programs that provide opportunities for young people to engage in their community, gain skills and information and build their capacity and resilience.

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ELECTRONIC MUSIC & PODCAST PRODUCTION

Come along and learn the art of electronic music and podcast production under the guidance of an industry professional

The five finalists were selected after a grueling statewide search, with hundreds of submissions received from some of the state’s most talented musos.

“We have been thrilled by the level of talent and diversity of our Rockin’ the Puburbs entrants,” Green said.

“These five finalists represent a number of musical genres from indie to country, rock, and folk.

“While these are very different styles of performance, they are a perfect representation of the diversity of music found in pubs right across NSW.” The five finalists will battle it out live on stage at Selina’s from 7pm on Thursday, February 23.

The winner will take home a $15,000 prize package including an East Coast pub tour, dedicated tour publicist and cash.

Limited free tickets for the Grand Final are available to the public via https://www. eventbrite.com.au/e/rockinthe-puburbs-grand-finaltickets-483537743407.

Source: Media release, Jan 22 AHA

BUILDING Up, RISING UP

Building Up Rising Up supports young people in building their employment skills, understand the job seeking process and get ready for their employment journey

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reachout@ryss.com.au

For more information or to express interest in any of our programs or Scan for more info about services please theHubQR code below.

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grant funding from the Australian the Safer Communities Fund ntion grants stream

RYSS - One 3 One Youth Hub 131 Erina Street, Gosford 2250

This project received grant funding from the Australian Government through the Safer Communities Fund Round 6 Early Intervention grants stream.

Youth counselling

We offer free face-to-face youth counselling service for vulnerable young people

OPEN SUPPORT SESSIONS

A safe and supportive space to talk to a Youth Worker for practical help, guidance, advocacy, resources and access to Wi-Fi, amenities, and laptops

NAME.NARRATE.NAVIGATE

This is a program exploring trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive responses to family and domestic violence by young people

Employment skills cafe

In the One 3 One Youth Hub we are operating an employment skills cafe where young people can gain valuable hospitality and customer service skills

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Gary Puckett and the Union Gap head for Coast They produced some of the hits which defined a generation in the 1960s and ‘70s and now Central Coast fans will have the chance to see Gary Puckett and the Union Gap live next month.

soon back performing, with a variety of backing line-ups over the years reverting to the original name The Union Gap. “When I first started out I didn’t really think about how long I would last (as an artist),” he said.

“I just knew I wanted to make music a career and didn’t want to end up in nightclubs.

“Success was something we were hoping for and working towards but you just can’t know what’s going to happen.

“I never thought I would still be touring and performing live 55 years later.”

Puckett attributes the hits which made the band’s name to “a great team of people”.

“I had a very talented band, a great record company and producer – a top combination of voice, songs, band and production; I was very lucky,” he said.

As the band launched, Puckett decided it needed a visual identification.

“We needed a look of our own that would set us apart,” he said.

“Psychedelia was very big but we thought if we could be different that might have some impact.

Front man Gary Puckett is one of the few elite artists whose first five album releases went gold - not even the great Elvis accomplished this.

The band sold more records in 1968 than any other recording act, including The Beatles.

Following the release of their debut single, Woman, Woman, in 1967, the band went on to record a string of hits including Young Girl, Lady Willpower, Over You, Don’t Give In To Him, This Girl is a Woman Now and Keep the Customer Satisfied before disbanding, with Puckett pursuing a solo career.

He had some success as a solo artist with the Gary Puckett Album in 1971 and took a break from the live music scene while he studied acting and dance and performed in theatrical productions in and around Los Angeles.

But the lure of the band scene was too strong and he was

Gary Puckett and the Union Gap

“I have always loved the history of the US civil period and decided we’d all wear Union soldier outfits, basically the same but differentiated with ranks, hats and so on.

“I grew up in Washington state and in the south-east corner was the town of Union Gap; we had our name and our look.”

In a career spanning more than five decades, Puckett said there had been many highlights.

“I got to work with some of the greats,” he said.

“The Beach Boys, Chicago, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Nancy Sinatra- so many greats through the years.”

A career highlight was a

performance at the White House for Prince Charles and Princess Anne in the days of the Nixon presidency.

“It was fabulous,” he said.

“We met the prince and princess, the president and many of his cabinet; I am one of few Americans who can say I have met King Charles.”

Another favourite memory is being presented with four gold singles all at once.

“They were all lined up at CBS Records- it was amazing,” he said.

Like many other artists, Puckett was caught up in the COVID pandemic.

“I got it fairly early on but fortunately had no lasting

effects,“ he said.

“That whole time was very frustrating.

“I spent a few months homeschooling my six-year-old grandson and I found myself learning a lot about how they teach children these days, which is very different from when I was at school.

“But I practiced every day and kept writing new songs.”

Puckett has kept up a gruelling performance schedule over the years, playing to sell-out audiences in more than 150 performances each year.

He still delivers the raw sixties sound which made him famous.

Puckett has made more than

50 television appearances and the Union Gap’s Greatest Hits album is one of CBS’s bestselling Collector’s Series albums today.

He also toured with the Monkees on their national reunion tour, which established itself as the major box office success of the 1986 touring season.

In August 2001, Puckett released his first ever Christmas CD, At Christmas.

These days, he is pleased to see audiences of all ages coming to his shows.

“The younger people tell me they love the music of our era; it crosses generations and that’s a great feeling,” he said.

Following an extensive Australian tour in February/ March, Pucket will return to the US for a national tour with five other acts of the era covering 53 cities, with every show already sold out.

Abstract Touring will present Gary Puckett and the Union Gap at Ettalong Diggers on Sunday, February 19, and The Art House, Wyong, on Wednesday, March 1.

For bookings, see the venues’ websites.

Terry Collins

RYSS Abilities GROUP Programs - Term 1 2023 RYSS Abilities Group Programs are 8 week social engagement and living skills based programs open to young people aged 12 and over who are eligible for NDIS funding in a rage of core and capacity building areas.

Term 1 Starts Term 1 commences the week starting Monday 6th of February and the program will run for 8 weeks.

THE SOCIALITES Mondays | 10:30 - 1:30pm

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Places in all groups are limited. Register your interest today as places will fill up fast!

Scan the QR CODE

Be a “Socialite” and get out and about in the community with likeminded people visiting some exciting venues and attractions.

Community Based

COOKING

Mondays & Tuesdays

Have fun learning basic cooking skills, a variety of easy to cook at home recipes and getting to know each other

RYSS Wyoming

Abilities X-Fit Fun

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Have fun getting fit participating and learning new skills with sporting, recreation and leisure activities

Get creative on canvases and in the kitchen making crazy shakes for afternoon tea and carry the inspiration through to painting colourful designs.

Mondays | 5:00 - 7:00pm

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Tuesdays | 3.30pm - 5.30pm

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For more information or to enrol.

Call our Abilities Groups Coordinator on 4325 0661 for more information or to discuss individual needs.

Regional Youth Support Services Wyoming Youth Skills Centre 9 Warrawilla Road, Wyoming NSW 2250 ndis@ryss.com.au 4325 0661

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Photography

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Wednesdays & Thursdays

Wednesdays | 4:00 - 6:00pm

Thursdays | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Community Based

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Participants learn how to use power An introduction to digital photography.

Get out and about in the community tools and hand tools while creating fun photographing different subjects, woodwork projects under the guidance while getting hands-on experience. of a trained educator in carpentry.

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Thursdays | 5:30 - 7:30pm

Your Gaming experience will be elevated - show off your skills with likeminded gamers, while refining healthy gaming habits and strategies, all while using the very latest in gaming gear.

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Fridays | 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Work Readiness is a weekly program to help young people develop skills to get ready for the workforce.

RYSS Wyoming

Karaoke & Komedy Thursdays | 3:30 - 5:30pm

Learn the art of music production with industry professionals. From writing the rhymes, mixing the beats and recording tracks all will be covered in this weekly program.

Come along to a fun-filled group where you can sing your heart out try out your very own comedy bit in a safe and supportive group.

RYSS Wyoming

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School Leavers Employment Supports

Fridays | 3:30pm - 5:30pm & 5:30 - 7:30pm (18+)

Bring your creative mind and your best story line to help us create a social game we can get ‘lost’ in a role-playing adventure!

RYSS Wyoming

Our RYSS Employment Support staff are available to deliver an exciting range of supports for young people funded with School Leaver Employment Support (SLES) funding in their NDIS plan.

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MP MEMBER FOR ROBERTSON

CARING FOR THE COAST

MY OFFICE CAN ASSIST WITH: • Services Australia and Medicare

• Defence and Veterans Affairs

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• Telecommunications and the NBN

• Immigration and Passports

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Connect with Gordon on Facebook

Contact Dr Gordon Reid: Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250 on 02 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.MP@aph.gov.au reid4robertson Authorisation by Dr Gordon Reid MP, Australian Labor Party, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW 2250

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CELEBRATING SENIORS! Join us for free entertainment and morning tea* with Tony Remedios from the FAB Four & The 60s Chart

27 JANUARY 2023

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Rodwells celebrate 70th wedding anniversary with a special visitor When Thomas and June Rodwell of Niagara Park celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on January 17, Member for Robertson Gordon Reid decided to pop in to wish them well.

Reid delivered a special marriage anniversary certificate from his office.

“70 years of marriage truly is a remarkable milestone, and it is beautiful to see true love endure the test of time,” Reid said.

“Being able to recognise anniversary milestones like (this) is one of the highlights of being a member of parliament.

“I wish Mr and Mrs Rodwell many more years of marriage and send my best wishes to them in this joyous year.”

Mrs Rodwell had some advice to offer on enjoying a long marriage.

“It is important that you are kind and understand each other,” she said.

“You must do things together; that is what holds you both close to each other – sharing and enjoying life as a couple.

Thomas and June Rodwell with Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

“People who dance together, stay together.”

The couple met in Cooma, married in 1953, and have raised two children together.

Both have a passion for AFL

and have enjoyed their lives on the Central Coast.

Source: Media release, Jan 25 Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

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Known as Gosford City Council Speakers until the merge of Gosford and Wyong councils in 2016, the club meets at Central Coast Leagues

V I S A M A E G S A S X H U TheI environment friendly MP Cis T S and supportive and the self-E U D paced program GU M T isRpressureE free.E S L R E ULearning I to speak Y confidently in public can also held build L I N U N leadership skills.

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Business & Property

Business grants could boost Coast’s productivity

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch with Eastcoast Beverages GM Samuel Lentini

Businesses across the Central Coast could benefit from the State Government’s $100M Regional Job Creation Fund Round Three, which aims to enhance job opportunities, boost staff retention and grow and diversify business in regional NSW. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member

for Terrigal Adam Crouch said Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for applications which attract investment through co-funded projects and initiatives to support economic growth, productivity and diversity across the region.

“Businesses across the Central Coast contribute greatly to our economy and the Regional Job Creation Fund continues to support regional business by co-funding

projects that drive investment, create jobs and boost economic growth,” Crouch said.

“On the Central Coast we have seen a number of businesses supported through this initiative including Eastcoast Beverages, Hawksbury Brewing, The Cordina Food Co. and Krumbled Foods.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said previous rounds of the

Regional Job Creation Fund provided $140M to close to 200 regional projects, enabling more than $360M of private investment into regional NSW and creating 6,500 new jobs in key industries.

“We’ve already seen the difference this fund is making to regional businesses right across the state – and now we want to build on that by opening Expressions of Interest (EOI) for our next round of funding,” he

said.

Eligible businesses can apply for grants of between $100,000 and $10M for projects such as replacing plant equipment, upgrading technology and ensuring businesses that might otherwise have to relocate can remain operational in regional areas.

Expressions of Interest for Round Three of the Regional Job Creation Fund close 5pm on Monday, March 6.

Successful EOI applicants will be invited to submit detailed applications from May. For further information about the Regional Job Creation Fund, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to: www.nsw.gov. au/RJCF. Source: Media release, Jan 23 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY

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Labor plan to abolish stamp duty for many Member for Wyong and Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris, says thousands of first home buyers in the region could benefit from a new Labor plan to expand the number of first-home buyers paying no stamp duty or who can claim a steep discount.

Announced on January 9 by NSW Labor Leader Chris Minns in the lead-up to the March state election, the plan would see a Labor Government abolish stamp duty outright for first homebuyers buying a home worth up to $800,000 while offering a concessional rate to first-home buyers purchasing a property up to $1M. Harris said the majority of suburbs across the Central Coast have properties for sale under $1M which means they would be attractive to first home buyers with savings on stamp duty of up to $30,000.

Labor says the plan is much more user-friendly than the Government’s First Home

Shadow Minister for the Central Coast David Harris

Buyer Choice legislation which will give first home buyers the choice between paying a large upfront stamp duty and a smaller annual property fee.

“In the upcoming NSW Election, people have a real choice – A Fresh New Plan for housing/rental affordability or a tired 12-year-old government that has introduced a new tax for First Home Buyers which

they will have to pay every year they own their property,” Harris said.

“Labor’s approach is to address inequities in the rental and housing markets (and) make reforms that benefit, particularly, our younger generations that are struggling to afford to leave home.

“Housing and rental

affordability have spiralled out of control under the Perrottet Government’s watch, and they have failed on every level to intervene on behalf of families and individuals.

“NSW Labor, if elected in March, will bring a fresh approach to this important policy area with a real plan to make a difference.”

The announcement of Labor’s initiative comes as concerns rise that rapidly rising interest rates and tumbling real wages are combining to force firsthome buyers out of the property market altogether.

The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that the number of first home buyers in NSW approved for a home loan has halved since the most recent peak in December 2020.

With the market tipping interest rates to rise to their highest level in more than 10 years, Labor’s plan is directed towards giving help to the firsthome buyers most at risk of losing their foothold on the housing ladder.

With more housing policies still to come, a Minns Labor Government has already committed to: removing or reducing the stamp duty tax burden from 46,500 first home buyers over the next three years; abolishing the NSW Government’s forever land tax on the family home; creating a Rental Commissioner; protecting tenants from unfair

evictions by requiring them to be given a lawful reason for terminating their lease; banning the practice of secret rent-bidding which pits tenants against each other in bidding war; implementing a Portable Bond Scheme to allow tenants to apply their current bond to their next lease; making it easier for renters to have pets in their homes; hosting a renters’ roundtable to hear from stakeholders and community groups; charging the Greater Cities Commission to rebalance population and housing growth by setting new housing targets on Metro lines to the city; introducing a mandatory requirement for 30 per cent of all homes built on surplus government land to be set aside for social, affordable and universal housing; and providing longer term funding certainty for homelessness and housing support organisations and tenancy advocacy services dealing with the fall-out from the housing crisis.

Source: Media release, Jan 9 Member for Wyong, David Harris

Launch Pad program back in 2023 Central Coast Council’s popular Social Enterprise Launch Pad Program is back for an eleventh straight year with the community encouraged to register for an online information session to find out more about the exciting project.

The annual program supports the development of innovative new enterprise models within the region and helps to turn community focused business ideas into a reality.

An online information session will be held on Friday, February 10, where participants can learn more about the free program, and about a series of workshops running from February to May. Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services

Melanie Smith said the program has an emphasis on encouraging ideas from those with a lived experience of a disability to become involved this year.

“The free program provides a step-by-step guide to research, plan, seek funding and establish a social enterprise that benefits our community – whether it be social, environmental or creative,” Smith said.

“This annual program has helped start-ups, entrepreneurs, not for profit organisations and new businesses with a social vision go on to successfully launch community focused ventures.

It has created a sense of community which is so important for the Central Coast.”

138 Robina Town Centre Drive Robina Qld 4226 PO Box 3275 Robina Town Centre Qld 4230 Tel: 1300 36 0867 Fax: 1300 81 8962 email: artwork@localdirectories.com.au www.localdirectories.com.au

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The Iris Foundation’s Because We Care Boutique was a participant in 2021

and individuals wanting to use Council Administrator Rik importance.

DQCW & LAWYERS Hart said theSOLICITORS continued growth “There has been a major shift their skills and talents to help of the program highlights its

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community,” Hart said.

“The increasing number of participants and their diverse professional background is impressive, and I look forward to seeing what social enterprise ideas will come to the table for the benefit our region in 2023 and beyond.”

This year’s development program will be delivered in partnership between Council, The Business Centre and Community Compass.

For more information search “social enterprise” at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au To secure a spot for the online information session on February 10, email Gregory.

Combes@centralcoast.nsw. gov.au.

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others

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Source: Media release, Jan 19 Central Coast Council

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Draft plan for managing flood risk on Peninsula on exhibition A draft Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan for the Woy Woy Peninsula is now on public exhibition, with submissions invited until Wednesday, February 15.

The plan considers several flood risk management options to reduce risk to life and damage to property.

The options, identified in consultation with the Woy Woy Peninsula community in the first round of consultation held in March 2021, have been assessed against a range of criteria: economic, environmental and social.

The best options form the recommendations and strategic program presented in the draft plan and include such measures as increasing the number of flood warning signs, drainage improvements, improvements to flood warning systems, flood risk education programs and a review of flood evacuation centre locations.

Central Coast Councill Director Environment and Planning Alice Howe said the community has already played an integral role in shaping many exciting projects, plans and strategies to benefit and enhance Woy Woy.

Increased flood warning signage is among the recommendation

“Community feedback has and will continue to play a vital role in helping shape the future of not just Woy Woy, but the entire Central Coast,” Howe said.

“The exhibition of the draft Woy Woy Peninsula Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan is the next step in securing the future of the area, with the focus on benefits for people and the environment of reducing flood risk.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said Council is committed to delivering services and infrastructure that secure and support Woy Woy’s identity as an important economic centre for the Central Coast, and which reflect the needs of the community both now and into the future.

“The Woy Woy Peninsula Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan is also key in creating a safe and sustainable

environment for the community to live, work and play in,” he said.

Hart said all comments and submissions received during the exhibition period will be analysed and where relevant, incorporated into the final study and plan which will be considered for adoption by Council later this year.

The final plan will serve to inform relevant government

information systems, government and strategic decision makers on flood risk and flood risk and emergency management planning for existing and future development.

The draft plan examines: variation in flood behaviour, flood function, flood hazard; impacts and costs for a range of flood events or risks on the existing and future community; the impacts of changes in

climate on flood risk; the emergency response situation and limitations; the effectiveness of current management measures; and options to mitigate flooding impacts.

It looks at factors which contribute to flood risk including storms, drainage, climate change, tidal inundation and rainfall.

In the 2021 questionnaire, most respondents largely attributed flooding problems to the deficiencies in the drainage systems, particularly poor maintenance, insufficient capacity and lack of kerb and guttering on roads.

The draft study and plan and supporting documents can be viewed at yourvoiceourcoast. com/woy-woy-floodplain or at Woy Woy Library.

There will be a drop-in session from 4-6.30pm on Wednesday, February 1, at the Country Women’s Association Hall in Woy Woy. Residents can also book a call-back with a project officer to discuss project information and make a comment on the plan.

Terry Collins

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The perfect coffee delivered to your door

Lance Witham has had a passion for coffee all his life

Lance Witham grew up climbing over coffee sacks and tea chests and now, as the owner of Witham’s Coffee at Hornsby, is looking to expand his sales market on the Central Coast.

The specialty coffee roasting company is passionate about delivering the finest quality, freshly roasted coffee direct to cafes and private householders.

“I was born on my parents’ coffee farm in Zimbabwe and was immersed in the coffee business from a very young age,” Witham said.

“When my family lost its farm in a hailstorm, we moved to

town and my father ran a co-op for other coffee farmers before relocating first to Malawi, where Dad was involved in the coffee and tea trade, and then to the company’s South African head office.”

When the family emigrated to Australia in 1983, Witham decided he wanted to follow his father into the industry.

“I did a season in far north Queensland learning that side of the industry and then I worked for Dad, selling bags of coffee out of a truck,” he said.

“I decided that was the side of the industry I wanted to be involved in and worked with a small roasting company in

Sydney for 18 months learning the retail side of the business.

“When I was 25, my wife and I started a small coffee shop at Waverton.”

At that time there were very few coffee brands in Sydney of a boutique quality and the business exploded.

Press officer Simon Robotham said Witham’s Coffee at Hornsby was gearing up for a busy year with an increasing demand for coffee delivered direct to the customer’s home or café.

“At Witham’s Coffee we roast to order and can therefore supply you with freshest premium roasted coffee,” he

Witham’s Coffee at Hornsby

said.

“At our Roastery we have an Espresso Bar Café as well as a showroom full of coffee supplies and equipment.

“We have an extensive range of coffees to try, whether they be Single Origin or Master Roaster blends.

“We can offer fresh whole beans or professionally ground to suit your own method of making coffee at home.

“You might be interested in one of our commercial quality coffee machines for domestic use or a stove-top, plunger, or coffee filter system that best suits your requirements.

“We can show you how to use

espresso machines at home to give you the best possible result.

“In addition, we provide machine servicing to ensure your machine performs at its best and real coffee enthusiasts might like to enrol in one of our barista courses.”

Witham said the company could supply everything needed to produce delicious coffee in private homes or cafes.

“We are looking to expand our online ordering service into the Central Coast,” he said.

“We already have a couple of clients there; it’s actually quicker for us to get deliveries

to the Central Coast than to North Sydney.”

Stocking single origin coffees from 18 different regions as well as organic coffees and 1520 blends, Witham’s can advise café owners or householders on the best type of machine for their use.

“Anything you want to buy for your own kitchen or cafe we have it all; we sell everything you need around coffee,” Witham said.

For full details visit withams. com.au, call 9482 1122 or email coffee@withams.com. au.

Terry Collins

Dated medical centre project to be modernised

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View of the updated medical centre from the plaza

New plans for a medical centre in Hamlyn Terrace have been lodged with Central Coast Council, 17 years after it was first approved, to modernise the building and bring it up to building code standards.

In 2005 Council approved a combined nursing home and medical centre project at 88102 Louisiana Rd with Hakea Grove Aged Care opening in 2015 and the medical centre planned as stage two.

Since then, surrounding sites in the health precinct have evolved, including a major upgrade at Wyong Hospital, and Austvina Education & Immigration Services Pty

believes their original medical centre design is now less than the highest standard for market expectations.

A report in the development application says that changes to the relevant Australian Standards and Building Code of Australia provisions over the past 17 years render parts of the original approved design non-compliant and impractical.

The report says that modified plans are a result of detailed design development but retain the same approved use, general built form, 16.8m building height, access and parking provisions.

The internal floor plan has been revised for increased

functionality and flexibility for future tenants, the exterior façade of the building will be modernised including passive solar design elements and there will be improvements to basement and external parking provision.

There will be 238 car parking spaces allocated to the medical centre as well as a pedestrian link to the adjacent Wyong Hospital.

The modified development application (236/2005/F) can be viewed on Central Coast Council’s website and submissions will be received until Monday, February 20.

Sue Murray

FRIDAY, 27 JANUARY 2023

PAGE 25

BUSINESS & PROPERTY

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‘Good’ investment is in the eye of the beholder WITH

Michelle BALTAZAR Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine Extreme weather around the globe, the threat of pandemics such as Covid and a decline in corporate governance in some sectors are reminders that risks abound and pose a threat to our future prosperity and sometimes our very existence.

There is a consensus that global warming is posing a significant risk to economic growth and by extension our savings, prompting super fund members, especially younger generations, to pay more attention to environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues.

Super fund trustees have a fiduciary duty to maximise their members’ retirement savings and consequently manage the risks that lie ahead.

“Running a big super fund is a tough job,” says Alex Dunnin, executive director of research and compliance at Rainmaker Information.

“Sometimes you’ve got to

make long-run decisions with incomplete information and investment bets about what might be happening over the next 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years.”

Renewables challenge For example, transitioning to a decarbonised future will be challenging and won’t happen overnight, which means a more nuanced, pragmatic approach is required, says Dunnin.

“Sometimes a fund is criticised because it’s got BHP exposure.

“If you do not want your super fund to have any investments in fossil fuel or resources companies, that’s fine – there are specialist funds like that.

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“While people might not like BHP, it’s one of the biggest investors around the planet in renewable energy, so does that make BHP a bad or a good company?

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And if we want to electrify the country and have everyone driving EVs, we’re going to have to dig up more rare earth minerals than ever before.

“And to produce all those EVs, all those batteries, all those rare earth minerals, is going to take so much energy, maybe it’s counterproductive.

“There’s a lot of nuance everywhere you look.”

Adding to the complexity, there are no official standards on what a green investment is.

“The regulator is saying, we’re not going to judge you on a technical definition of what an ethical investment is,” says Dunnin.

“We’re going to do it the other way around: you can invest in anything you like, but if you say

that you’re going to have this social impact, you’ve got to be able to demonstrate it.”

are committed to ESG principles.

“If you look at the ESG investment indexes compared to the regular investment indexes, there’s not much difference.

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Council finances continue to improve Central Coast Council’s financial performance is continuing to improve, with the financial report presented at the January 24 meeting showing a strong financial position to kick off 2023 and reinforcing Council’s ongoing long term financial sustainability strategy.

Council CEO David Farmer said the organisation’s financial performance continues to exceed planned forecasts.

“As reported at Council’s December 2022 meeting, and reinforced at last night’s meeting, our strong financial performance means that we can allocate surpluses to pay down some debt earlier than originally forecast and set aside funds for future needs, while we continue to prudently manage other financial challenges such as rising costs due to inflation,” Farmer said.

Due to the early scheduled timing of the December 2022 Council Meeting, the Financial Report presented at the January 24 meeting was the November 2022 monthly financial report.

The December 2022 monthly financial report will be

presented together with the January 2023 financial report in February.

Farmer said for the month of November 2022, Council reported an operating result surplus of $17.5M, before capital income, which was favourable to budget by $5.5M and a net operating surplus including capital income of $23M which was favourable to budget by $8.4M. Year-to-date, Council reported an operating result surplus of $28.4M, before capital income, which was favourable to budget by $13.8M and a net operating surplus including capital income of $51.1M which was $13.1M favourable to budget.

“As reported in December, the improved financial position means $50M has been allocated to early repayment of the emergency loans which were taken out in late 2020,” farmer said.

“This will be used to pay down a portion of the emergency loans when they reset in December 2023.

“The second emergency loan taken out in December 2020 will have an outstanding balance of $82.6M in December

AUSSIE GROWN AUSSIE OWNED

Central Coast Council CEO, David Farmer

2023.

“Council secured $150M in emergency loans in late 2020 to reimburse restricted funds unlawfully accessed and to provide liquidity while Council’s financial recovery plan was implemented.

“These external loans, the first $50M and the second $100M, are required to be repaid within 10 years from forecast surpluses as outlined in Council’s Long Term Financial Plan.”

Farmer said $5M has been allocated to a Future Projects Reserve building a fund to apply to initiatives for the future.

“We will continue to review our financial position and consider additional transfers to the internal restrictions on a quarterly basis,” he said.

“This is to ensure we can repay the emergency loans as soon as is practical and free up cash flow that we can direct into services that our

community want.

Farmer said while Council is planning to pay down emergency loans early, the improved financial performance of the water fund also means that Council can now consider taking out additional specific loans for improvements that benefit the community, such as the Mardi Treatment Plant upgrade.

“We are very comfortable to take a loan to upgrade a major infrastructure asset such as Mardi Water Treatment Plant, which is crucial to the Central Coast community,” he said.

“This upgrade will allow the filtration of blue green algae which has been a common problem over recent years and will also provide for an increase in volume to service our growing community.

“This project was a key part of Council’s water submission to IPART – and the funding is built into the current water pricing.

“Improvements to Mardi Dam are improvements to the quality of life for our community through long term water security and secure water quality and also provides cost effective outcomes for the

community by deferring investments in additional drought infrastructure.

“The accelerated reduction in General Fund emergency loans, while retaining the flexibility to borrow for major assets which are supported by long term income streams in areas such as water, sewer and waste, are key parts of Council’s financial strategy which was adopted last year.”

Administrator Rik Hart said Council’s strong financial performance was another sign the organisation is well and truly moving ahead in a positive way.

“Our focus now will continue to be addressing those areas of concern where we are not meeting our community expectations on service delivery, as well as now looking at other pro-active measures to improve infrastructure assets,” he said.

To stay up to date with information about Council finances go to centralcoast. nsw.gov.au and search ‘Financial Monthly Reports’.

Source: Media release, Jan 25 Central Coast Council

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

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Lachlan and Janine join Youth Taskforce Janine Southwell of Terrigal and Lachlan Middlemiss of Umina Beach will represent the Central Coast as members of the 2023 Regional Youth Taskforce, providing operational advice to the NSW Government to advance the needs of young people in the regions.

Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin said 18 new young leaders from across regional had been selected from more than 140 applicants and include two young people from each of the state’s nine regions.

They will meet throughout the year to focus on the NSW Regional Youth Framework pillars: work readiness, wellbeing, connectivity and community, Franklin said.

“Throughout the year the taskforce will join me and senior representatives from Government and its agencies to have their say about services, programs and infrastructure that is important to them,” Franklin said.

“The Government knows there’s no better way to be informed on the issues that

Lachlan Middlemiss

matter to young people in regional and rural NSW than to hear them directly from this exceptional group of young people.

“In the role, our 18 new members will hone their skills in driving policy change, advocate for real outcomes for young people, and provide a voice for regional youth within the NSW Government.”

Lachlan Middlemiss, who attends St Philip’s Christian College in Gosford, said he had applied to join the taskforce because he wanted to advocate for issues important to the

Janine Southwell

youth of the Central Coast.

“My biggest issue is mental health support – making sure it is accessible for everyone,” he said.

“I feel very strongly about inclusion and that the emotional and mental needs and issues of young people are met.

“I especially want to see changes around waiting times.

“I have head of some people having to wait three months for an appointment with headspace.

“A lot of young people are struggling with their mental

health, especially in the wake of the COVID lockdowns.”

Lachlan also hopes to advocate more more career guidance for young people.

“A lot of people are concerned about this,” he said.

“In schools, there is not much guidance on what people should be doing to align with their career pathways and I’d like to see that change.”

For Janine Southwell, who attends Central Coast Grammar School, said she had a passion for youth advocacy.

“I do a lot of debating and

public speaking and last year participated in the Youth Parliament program,” she said.

“I thought being on the Youth Taskforce would be a great opportunity.”

Like Lachlan, Janine believes mental health support is one of the largest issues affecting youth on the Central Coast.

“Regional and rural areas are having difficulties in assessing long-term mental health care, especially since COVID,” she said.

“I also think it is important to try to keep young people in regional areas by making sure

they are not forgotten.

“A lot of people, when they finish school, move to Sydney or Newcastle.

“We need to work to keep them so regional areas can be developed.

“I am really excited for the opportunity to speak on behalf of my peers and regional youth in general.

“This is a unique opportunity to work alongside members of parliament who will actually listen to what we have to say about policies affecting young people.”

Franklin thanked the outgoing 2022 Regional Youth Taskforce for its input guiding major NSW Government policy decisions.

“Some of the 2022 Taskforce’s achievements include raising awareness of the need for more mental health support for regional young people, improving messaging to youth about the harms of vaping and inclusion and awareness for LGBTQIA+ young people living in the regions,” he said.

For more information on the Regional Youth Taskforce, visit: nsw.gov.au/ RegionalYouthTaskforce.

Terry Collins

Men stepping out to boost wellbeing An increasing number of men are discovering the body and soul benefits of a new men’s walk and talk group at Tuggerawong.

There was a strong turnout for the first walk in December and more men are joining in every Thursday to leisurely walk and chat along the 5km round trip between Saturday St and March St on the foreshore Tuggerawong pathway.

Organiser and mental health speaker, Craig Ball, is a veteran who’s lost a lot of mates to suicide over the years and decided to do something about it.

“The walk is intended to get

men out to talk, get some fresh air and work on their mental health,” he said.

“It’s about having a conversation, ending isolation and doing something good for our health, both mental and physical – great for the soul, great for the mind.

“If you don’t think you can make the full 5km distance, don’t let that discourage you, just walk as far as you can and come along anyway to meet the guys, have a chat and get some fellowship that way.

“There’s an increasing number of men each week, it really feels like a community, a safe and open environment

completely free of judgement where all of us are here to listen.

“Ending isolation and improving our health starts with each of us.

“Bring a mate, bring your dog, and remember no one walks alone so join in and meet some friends,” Ball said.

He’s at the Saturday St meeting place at about 6.30pm every Thursday and the walkers set off at about 7.05pm for the hour long amble.

More information is available on the Facebook page Central Coast Men’s Walk and Talk.

Sue Murray

Some of the men walking along Tuggerawong pathway

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE VODAFONE & OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION (INCLUDING 5G) ON THE MONOPOLE LOCATED AT: 10-16 MINGARA DRIVE, TUMBI UMBI, NSW, 2261 RFNSA SITE NO. 2261006 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new Optus and Vodafone equipment and associated works (including 5G), as follows: • Replace the existing Triangular Headframe with a Square Headframe at 24m • Removal of six (6) Vodafone/Optus panel antennas • Installation of three (3) twin beam passive antennas (no more than 2.8m in length) • Installation of three (3) single beam passive antennas (no more than 2.8m in length) • Reuse of one (1) Nokia GPS Antenna and one (1) Ericsson GPS Antenna • Removal of fifteen (15) existing remote radio units • Installation of twelve (12) Nokia and thirteen (13) Ericsson remote radio units (maximum size 560mm X 308mm) • Installation of six (6) Ericsson and three (3) Nokia active antenna units • The reconfiguration of existing technologies and addition of new technologies for 3G/4G/5G systems • The installation of ancillary equipment including but not limited to: new mounts, fibre and electrical cabling, and reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and in the existing equipment shelter 2. Optus & Vodafone regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

Lic: 173676C

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal.

Further information and/or comments should be directed to: communityconsultation@ventia.com, telephone (+61 2 4904 5507) or postage to Level 1, South Tower, 10 Browning Street, West End QLD 4101 Australia by COB Friday, 10 February 2023.

FRIDAY, 27 JANUARY 2023 FOLLOW US

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

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Stay alert to meningococcal symptoms Central Coast Local Health District is urging people to be alert to the symptoms of meningococcal disease and act immediately if they appear.

Since the start of December 2022, there have been two cases of meningococcal on the Central Coast.

Children under five and 15-25-year-olds are at the greatest risk of contracting the disease.

District Director of Public Health Dr Kathryn Taylor said early intervention can be lifesaving.

“Meningococcal disease symptoms can appear suddenly and become very serious very quickly,” she said.

“If you suspect meningococcal disease, don’t wait for the rash – see a doctor immediately.”

Meningococcal disease can be fatal within hours if left untreated.

Indicators of serious illness include fever, a fast heart rate, cold hands and feet or a mottled look to the skin, difficulty waking or increased lethargy or confusion.

Knowing the symptoms could help prevent premature death or life-long disability.

They include: severe, unexplained limb pain; difficulty waking up; high pitched crying in babies; severe headache; upset by bright lights; stiff neck; and red-purple rash which doesn’t disappear when

pressed with a glass.

“While it is a well-known symptom of meningococcal disease, the rash does not always occur, or may present late in the illness,” Taylor said.

“If symptoms rapidly worsen, or if your child is very unwell, call Triple Zero (000) or go straight to your nearest emergency department.”

Taylor said vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and community from the harmful effects of meningococcal disease.

Under the National Immunisation Program, meningococcal ACWY (Men ACWY) vaccine is provided free for babies at 12 months, adolescents and people of all

ages with certain medical conditions.

In NSW, the adolescent dose is delivered through the school vaccination program in Year 10.

Aboriginal children up to the age of two and people with certain medical conditions can also access free meningococcal B (Men B) vaccine.

All children from six weeks of age can have the Men B vaccine to reduce the risk of infection.

For more information on vaccination or symptoms, transmission, risks and treatment of meningococcal, see the NSW Health website.

Source: Media release, Jan 24 Central Coast Local Health District

Children under five are among those at greatest risk

Free program tackles problematic gaming and screen usage A new free program aimed at teenagers with problematic gaming and screen habits will get underway in February at Wyong.

Macquarie University Psychology Honours student Emily Kopp has been working with Associate Professor Wayne Warburton to develop the program.

The program is called RES@T-A and is for teens whose gaming interferes with at least one important area of their life such as schoolwork, relationships, mental health or physical health.

“In brief, the program was developed and refined over the

The program is for high school aged students who struggle to manage their video game play or general screen use

past two years by teams from Germany and Australia and has

Hamburg,” Kopp said.

“It is for high school aged

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students who struggle to manage their video game play or general screen use and is designed to be fun and engaging.

“It involves nine group sessions and three-six one on one sessions, to be held at Wyong.

“We have nearly finished with the first offering of the program, which began in mid-October last year, and from what we have seen it seems to be working as intended.

“We have 11 impressive teens who have completed the bulk of the program and have all reported benefits in at least one area of their lives, including physical health, schoolwork

and sleep hygiene.

“Now we are looking for participants to undertake the second offering of our study, beginning in the first week of February.

“We believe there would be a lot of Central Coast parents struggling with their teenagers’ screen use.”

The sessions will be held at the Mind and Me psychology clinic at 33 Margaret St, Wyong.

More information on the program and registration details can be found at www. resataus.com.

Source: Media release, Jan 19 Emily Kopp

AUTHORISED PERSON FOR THE PURPOSE OF HOME SCHOOLING REGISTRATION Upper Hunter Region, NSW and Central Coast Region, NSW NESA is seeking expressions of interest for the role of Authorised Person for home schooling registration from persons based in the Upper Hunter and Central Coast region of NSW. Authorised Persons assess and make recommendations regarding applications for registration for home schooling in NSW. Successful teaching experience and curriculum leadership is required. A Working with Children Check number is also required for this position.

Information regarding the application process can be accessed by following the below stated relevant link: Upper Hunter Region: https://iworkfor.nsw.gov.au/job/ authorised-person-for-the-purpose-of-home-schoolingupper-hunter-region-379162 Central Coast Region: https://iworkfor.nsw.gov.au/job/ authorised-person-for-the-purpose-of-home-schoolingcentral-coast-region-379174

NSW Education Standards Authority educationstandards.nsw.edu.au

Applications close 6 February 2023. Further details can be obtained by contacting (02) 9367 8403

ON

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DOWN IN THE GARDEN: GETTING INTO BUSH TUCKER winter and then come back in spring.

WITH CHERALYN DARCEY

Apart from gaining a great tasting harvest, growing an Australian Bush Tucker Garden will help provide food and shelter for local wildlife.

These plants are naturally suited to the local environment and so will generally need less watering, no or very little fertiliser and not much in the way of soil improvement.

Eaten and used by Indigenous Australians for centuries as a food source and in some cases as a medicinal aid, it is only fairly recently that these powerhouses of flavour and goodness have been considered as a regular addition to the home garden by most.

Some plants, like Lily Pilli, Davidson Plum and Lemon Myrtle have enjoyed wider spread moments of popularity but there is so much more to discover and a whole banquet of Bush Tucker that you can plant and cultivate at your place to bring life to the environment as well as your table.

Here is a sample of the plants

that you can grow at your place right now.

For more information I highly recommend the classic: ‘Wild Food Plants of Australia’, Tim Low and for a complete growing, buying and cooking guide, ‘First Nations Food Companion’, Damien Coulthard and Rebecca Sullivan is brilliant.

Warrigal Greens (Tetragonia tetragonioides) Eat as you would English spinach but raw it can be a little bitter for most so blanch first.

The tiny flowers are also edible and look pretty sprinkled on baked goods.

Although tolerant of most soils, it will do far better in a moist loamy free-draining medium.

Growing to only 20cm in height and spreading out to over 2m, it will do well in either full sun or part shade.

Warrigal greens die back in

FLOWER G I B

Old Man Saltbush – Tjilyi-tjilyi (Atriplex nummularia) The seeds and the leaves are the harvestable part of this plant and as the name suggests, imparts a salty flavour to your cooking.

Use the leaves like you would any leafy vegetable.

A hardy shrub, it will grow 1 to 3m in height and 5m wide and prefers full sun to part shade.

Tolerant of most soils and

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Finger Lime (Citrus australasica) You will need patience as it can take up to 15 years until you are enjoying the caviar-like inner of this delicious fruit if grown by seed and although they can grow from cuttings, the success rate is very low.

Most home gardeners fall back on grafted stock obtained commercially which also only attain a height of about 3m.

Grow in a wind-sheltered location in full sun to part shade.

Most soils are tolerated and fertilising requirements are minimal.

Regular citrus feeding at half strength every 3 months will be sufficient for grafted varieties.

Keep moist during fruiting and flowering times.

requires no feeding and only regular watering until established.

Midyim Berry – Midgen (Austromyrtus dulcis) Growing up to 1m in height (sometimes 2m) and 150cm in width these easy to grow plants are gaining popularity as a super food with their high antioxidant properties.

You will be harvesting delicious tangy berries after the first year.

Does well in most soils and in full sun or part shade.

Watering only required to established and when fruiting and flowering.

Feed with a native specific fertiliser as per directions during fruiting and flowering.

Pigface (Carpobrotus glaucescens) If you go down to the beach today, you will probably see these gorgeous bright flowers and their juicy foliage but you can easily grow Pigface at home as well.

The leaves can be eaten raw or roasted and used as a salt substitute.

Look out for the fruits that give this plant it’s ‘Pigface’ name as they are delicious with a salty strawberry flavour.

The flowers too are edible and look fabulous in savourybased dishes and drinks.

It will grow up to 20cm in height and to around 2m in width so makes a fantastic rockery or edging plant.

It can be easily propagated

w

Photo: Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

from cuttings, loves a welldrained soil and it will tolerate both full sun and part shade.

Water until established and you can hold back on feeding.

Bush Tucker Foraging I spoke with local Bushcrafter Jake Cassar about the possibility of foraging our own bush tucker.

While it seems like a natural thing to do there are a few cautions to be aware of.

“There’s heaps of Aussie Natives you can eat when you are out and about and there’s also a lot of introduced plants.

As always, you need to be 100% sure of the identification of plants before you eat them as some can make you very sick or even cause death.”

Although there are books, phone apps and websites that can assist with this identification process, mistakes can still be made, especially by the inexperienced.

As Jake points out, a lot of plants, their fruit included, can look very similar to each other.

Additional care must be taken

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to ensure plants have not been sprayed with chemicals and when collecting you have to be aware of spiders and snakes.

Attending bushcraft training or foraging with a guide is a good way to educate yourself about plant identification and safety.

“You have to be aware also that it is illegal to forage, even for food, in our national parks.”

Jake also cautioned and while you can forage on private land, permission must be granted.

With a passion for our environment, he prefers to focus on foraging for introduce species like blackberries, as this helps regenerate our local bush.

Some of the local edible natives that are found across the Central Coast include Lilli Pilli, Sour Current Bush, Yams, and Native Raspberries.

Jake as a lot of resources on his website and social media and his local bushcraft courses are a great way to learn more about experiencing our Australian bush safely.

Find out more at: Jakecassarbushcraft.com

Our Garden and Flower Clubs need us.

Many are in danger of folding as the average age of members now stands at 76.

Without younger people joining it is feared that these once popular clubs will be a thing of the past.

Garden and Flower Clubs are keepers of plant knowledge, a lot of it local and not found elsewhere so losing them will leave a huge hole in our resources.

Most members spend no more than a couple of hours a month on club activities and all skill levels are always very welcome.

To find out more about these clubs go to gardenclubs.org.au you might just find one that interests you!

GAR DENING PLANNER Funnel web spiders are on the move and we are expecting higher than average numbers due to weather patterns we have been experiencing.

Shake those boots before you put them on and be aware when working in the garden.

This week you could plant: culinary herbs, beans (dwarf and running), beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, carrot, cauliflower, celery, chicory, cress, cucumber, endive, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, marrow, mustard, onions (spring), parsnips, potatoes (tubers), radishes, rhubarb (crowns), salsify, silverbeet, swedes, sweetcorn, turnip, zucchinis, ageratum, alyssum, boronia, calendula, cineraria, cleome, cyclamen, forget-me-not, linaria, lobelia, lupin, marigold, nasturtium, pansy, poppy (Iceland), primula, stock, verbena, vinca, viola, wallflower

Phone: 4362 2236 24 Burns Road, Ourimbah (at the M1 intersection)

Cheralyn Darcey is a horticulture author and along with Pete Little, hosts ‘At Home with The Gardening Gang’ 8 - 10am live every Saturday on CoastFM96.3, on air locally or streaming by asking ‘play coastfm963’ Don’t forget to mention codeword “HEDGES” at the counter for the month of January only and get 15% discount on all hedging plants.

Archived articles: florasphere.com Send your gardening questions, events, and news to: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

FRIDAY, 27 JANUARY 2023 FOLLOW US

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Pro surf series heads to Avoca Beach SURFING The fourth and final leg of the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series 2023 will head to the golden shores of Avoca Beach in March.

Both the Men’s Vissla Central Coast Pro presented by Mad Mex and Women’s Sisstrevolution Central Coast Pro presented by Mad Mex will run simultaneously from March 13-18.

The elite four-event Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series 2023 is made up of two QS1000 events (Port Stephens and Maroubra) and two QS3000 events (Great Lakes and Central Coast).

The Central Coast event will be the last chance in the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series QS events for competitors nationwide to secure ranking points and position themselves in a safe spot on the leaderboard ahead of the Challenger Series set to commence internationally in May. Competitors will have one final opportunity in NSW to gain QS points with the Newcastle Surfest, which is separate from the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series

2023, scheduled for the end of March.

Surfing NSW CEO Luke Madden said the Central Coast Pro has produced a plethora of past, present and future talent.

“I am so excited that the Pro Surf Series is headed back to Avoca Beach in 2023,” he said.

“It’s one of the most iconic beaches in the region and the town itself is home to an entire underground world of talented surfers that live and breathe the lifestyle, as well as elite surfers such as Adrian Buchan, Wade Carmichael, Matt Wilkinson and Macy Callaghan who have gone on to do incredible things in the surfing community.”

Avoca Beach has become a breeding ground of passionate, stylish surfers, such as goofyfoot Adrian Buchan who has been part of the WSL Championship Tour for more than a decade.

Macy Callaghan, who grew up on the shores of Avocadominated local, national and international surf events, cementing herself as one of the fiercest competitors on the

the world’s best athletes including Joel Parkinson and Gabriel Medina.

Lennox is looking forward to competing on his home turf.

“There’s nothing better than competing in your backyard against your best mates from town and the country,” he said.

“I’m super excited to have my local boardriders crew supporting me and definitely have my eyes set on increasing my QS points.

“I will definitely use my local knowledge to my advantage; I’ve surfed Avoca my entire life and feel like I could surf the waves with my eyes closed.”

Pictured at the announcement (from left): Lennox Chell, Kiah Tebb, Avoca Boardriders President Anthony Love, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch, Talia Tebb and Finnley Hill

current World Tour.

Managing Director at Vissla and Sisstrevolution John Mossop said he looked forward to watching the next generation of athletes battle it out at Avoca Beach heading into the Challenger Series.

“It’s an honour that Vissla and Sisstrevolution can play a massive part in supporting

such an important event and stepping stone for the athletes,” he said.

The Vissla Central Coast Pro presented by Mad Mex will run over a six-day period, offering keen spectators and the local community ample opportunity to head down to the beach with their families and enjoy the fierce competition.

Local athlete Lennox Chell, 20, exemplifies the raw talent and grit that Avoca Beach continues to breed.

After taking out his first major Pro Junior event at the end of 2022, Lennox qualified and recently competed in the ISA World Junior Championships in Seaside, San Diago California.

This event has hosted some

The Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series 2023 is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. The Vissla and Sisstrevolution Central Coast Pro presented by Mad Mex will also be available to watch via live webcast through worldsurfleague.com and the WSL App. Source: Media release, Jan 19 Surfing NSW

Grants for Coast football clubs FOOTBALL Central Coast football clubs will receive more than $60,000 from the NSW Government’s NSW Football Legacy Fund.

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said more than $3.1M will be invested in projects and programs to ensure the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 leaves a lasting legacy for football across the state.

“Having the World Cup on home soil is a once-in-alifetime opportunity that will inspire young girls and boys to lace up the boots and emulate their football heroes,” Henskens said.

“With six months to go before

the tournament kicks off, there is already an enormous buzz around football and this program will help local clubs capitalise on excitement by running programs that will boost participation in the sport.

“It will also deliver funding to improve infrastructure, creating more modern and accessible facilities for communities across NSW.” The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will feature 32 teams competing in 64 matches across Australia and New Zealand during July and August .

Football NSW CEO John Tsatsimas said the NSW Football Legacy Fund will have a massive impact on the state’s community football clubs and

associations.

“Community football facilities are a key priority for our game with infrastructure improvements and upgrades allowing more people of all ages to engage in the largest participated sport actively and safely across NSW,” Tsatsimas said.

Northern NSW Football Interim CEO Peter Haynes said having inclusive facilities will help to boost participation for women and girls.

“Funding these projects will significantly improve the experience of women and girls within our game which is a huge win for our football community,” he said.

Under the Infrastructure

stream, East Gosford Football Club will receive $41,000 to improve an unsafe sloping area of approximately 200M2 adjacent to playing field No1 at Hylton Moore Oval.

By terracing this area with sandstone blocks, concrete stairs and paths, the club will provide safe and accessible seating and pathways with a link to a Council footpath.

In the Participation stream, Central Coast Football will receive $10,214 to start a Referee Development Program where referees, both future and present, will be nurtured and encouraged to develop skills that will aid in increasing referee retention.

The club will also collect $7,500 to buy INSPIRE FC

DRIVERS NEEDED CENTRAL COAST AREA

subscriptions for coaches of the female game.

INSPIRE FC is an online coach education platform that provides tips, hints, session plans, activities, and professional development videos to grassroots coaches.

Wyoming Football Club will

pocket $3,168 to provide custom-fitted female-specific uniforms for four of the club’s current competition female teams spanning age groups from Under 16s up to all age.

Source: Media release, Jan 20 NSW Government

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PAGE 32

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WWW.COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM.AU Photo: Central Coast Mariners

Mariners succumb to Wellington FOOTBALL The Central Coast Mariners suffered a 1-2 defeat against Wellington Phoenix on Sunday January 22 at Sky Stadium.

After conceding two early goals, the Mariners turned up the pressure in the second half but were unable to bridge the gap without prolific goalscorer, Jason Cummings who

was out due to illness.

Wellington were awarded a penalty in the 20th minute, with Storm Roux taking down a Phoenix forward, but after a VAR review, the foul was judged to have taken place outside of the penalty area and Wellington awarded a free kick only.

Despite missing this opportunity, Wellington eventually opened the scoring

in the 32nd minute with a goal to Phoenix captain, Alex Rufer, after a strong build up from midfielder Clayton Lewis.

One soon became two eight minutes later, with Callan Elliot crossing to Oskar Zawada free at the back post.

A few late chances from Wellington almost handed them the third before half time.

Beni N’kololo almost pulled

one back in the 50th minute, after a brilliant cross from Sammy Silvera 35 yards out found the head of the Frenchman directly in front, but he hit it over the bar.

New signing Christian Theoharous almost pulled off a spectacular goal after coming on for the mariners in the 75th minute, unleashing an effort from an acute angle that

unfortunately found the woodwork.

The Mariners finally got one goal back through N’kololo in the second minute of stoppage time after a long ball from Tulio.

With every Phoenix player behind the ball and the entire Mariners squad pushing forward, chances continued to come, but the Central coast side was unable to produce the

equaliser.

The match was marred by a heated incident at the end of the match.

The win lifted Phoenix to fourth place of the A-League ladder, while the secondplaced Mariners will turn their focus to their home match Western Sydney this Saturday night, 28 January.

CCN

Representing Australia in futsal youth team FUTSAL Charli Pascoe has been selected to represent Australia as goalkeeper in the Australian School Futsal under-19s youth team which will be touring USA in July.

Charli Pascoe

The 16-year-old will go into intense training in Portland before heading to Las Vegas for the three-day US championships.

It’s a self-funded opportunity of a lifetime and Charli’s Mum, Kellie Bush, is hoping for support from the community.

“We’ll be holding a trivia night in February to help fund the trip, so she is able to live her dream – this is a lifetime experience,” she said.

Also, Northlakes Toukley Rotary Club is backing Charli through its Community Raffle

program – www.raffletix.com. au/?ref=kduzb&sref=gzdb6hzh – and donations can be made on the Australian Sports Foundation page – https://asf. org.au/projects/to-makecharlis-dream-come-true Charli found her way on to the national team when The Australian Futsal Association held trials for 2022 School State Championships under16s, and as there was no Central Coast women’s team, she trialled with Northern NSW team.

She was selected to play goalie, followed by training in Newcastle for competition in Brisbane last September where she earned her spot in the Australian team.

Charli also made it into the under-16s Northern NSW team for the National Club Futsal

Championships held this month in Sydney.

The student at Tumbi Umbi campus of Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College has a deep passion for sport and over the years she’s represented schools in soccer, rugby union and netball.

When she was 14 Charli was the youngest player to take field when she was goalie in the under-19s soccer team for The Entrance campus of the College.

She was then introduced to Futsal and has been playing for the past three years in her school team.

In 2020 and 2021 the school made the state finals but due to Covid the competitions were cancelled, but in 2022 made it through to the second round.

Charli was recognised and

asked to trial for the Central Coast school state team.

For the past four years she’s played netball on Saturdays and coached an under-8s team for two years, umpired for three years and won a grand final in 2022.

On Sundays Charli played goalie in club soccer, being runners-up in the 2020 and 2022 grand final.

Apart from Charli’s sporting prowess, she’s also had great achievements in public speaking and was a student leader in Year 6 at Brooke Avenue Public School.

She took dance lessons from age three to 12 and performed in many concerts, eisteddfods and national dance competitions, winning multiple awards over the years.

Sue Murray