Coast Community News 381

9 MARCH 2023

ISSUE 381

News

Changing of the guard at Lighthouse Reserve

Council forges waterfront plan

ahead

with

See page 3

Out&About

Reflections Holiday Parks has been appointed by the NSW Government to manage Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve from September 2023.

See page 22 Norah Head is a crown reserve

Rayon Riot at the Naughty Noodle See page 13

Council’s partial backflip on Peninsula carpark sale Business Central Coast Council has done a partial backflip on its decision to sell the commuter carpark in Rawson Rd, Woy Woy, to the prospective new owner of Deepwater Plaza following backlash from the community and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch – but will proceed with selling its option to buy 220 spots in the adjoining plaza carpark in 2032.

Business and resident groups joined Tesch on site on Thursday, March 2, to demand a reversal of the decision made at the Tuesday, February 28, Council meeting.

Administrator Rik Hart had resolved for Council to enter negotiations to sell the commuter carpark, which it leases to Transport for NSW for $1 a year until 1965, along with Council’s option to buy half of the car spaces in the adjoining Deepwater Plaza carpark, to the plaza’s new owner Raptis

Protesting the sales on site on March 2 were (from left): Michael Wilder of the Peninsula Residents Association, Former Member for Gosford Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Peninsula Chamber of Commerce President Matthew Wales

Investments.

Council has an option to purchase the 220 spots in the plaza carpark in December 2032, for a peppercorn fee of $1.

Tesch said the decision was bad for

commuters, shoppers and the community.

“It is short-sighted to hand a hugely valuable publicly-owned asset and our rights to its expansion over to a private developer for a short-term

revenue hit,” she said.

“Our community stands in opposition to this and we call upon Rik Hart to reconsider this short-term decision on a long-term community asset.

“We know that putting a public asset into the hands of a private provider (can) have disastrous consequences.”

Tesch cited the example of the Kibbleplex site in Gosford, once promised as commuter carparking but later sold by Council.

“Parking in Gosford is now an absolute disaster and we don’t want that for the Peninsula with its growing population,” she said.

“We are also very concerned about Council’s lack of communication.”

Tesch said there was no guarantee the private company would not install a boom gate and start charging for parking in the future.

Continued page 4

For comprehensive election coverage go to CoastCommunityNews.com.au/election

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Pearl farm bounces back after devastating floods See page 24

Sport

Holly on target to represent Australia See page 32

Puzzles page 18

PAGE 2

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Berkeley Vale Scouts ridding environment of trash

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1st Berkeley Vale Cubs and Scouts clearing Bluebell Park of litter

Cubs and Scouts from the 1st Berkeley Vale group have been doing their bit for Clean Up Australia, clearing their locality of unsightly rubbish and learning about the environmental impact of litter.

Armed with gloves and bags, they set off with their Scout leaders during their usual Wednesday evening session to walk from their hall in Panorama Ave and down to Bluebell Park on Lakedge Ave.

They broke off into groups of three children and one adult with a few parents assisting Scout Leader Jarrad Jones, Cub Scout Leader Beverley Gray, Assistant Cub Scout Leader Kimberly Smith and Adult Helper Matthew Abbot.

“They scoured the park from the back to the front and we were pleasantly surprised that there was not as much rubbish as anticipated,” Smith said.

“We did find some cigarette butts, paper wrappers from straws and lollies, a pizza box,

“Scouting is all about learning in the outdoors. We learn by doing. We care for our environment and endeavour to leave no trace of our presence,” Smith said.

Clean Up Australia Day, on March 5, is not just about picking up rubbish, but also helps to involve children in education about sustainability and learn about the impact of rubbish on their local environment while playing an active role in their community.

Sue Murray

Fashion parade raises $1,500 for needy Deepwater Older Women’s Network (OWN) Woy Woy raised more than $1,500 for hungry, homeless and disadvantaged people on the Central Coast at a fashion parade held recently in conjunction with Sarongs Ladies Fashion of Ettalong Beach.

Held at the Mingaletta hall at Umina Beach, the event raised $1,562.63 but with Sarongs set to donate 10 per cent of any sales generated through the

fashion parade until March 18, organisers are hopeful of topping $2,000 in profit.

The money will be used to help Mary Mac’s at Woy Woy and Care4Coast as well as Allawah house, an initiative to house homeless older ladies in the community.

A spokesperson said more than 100 people attended, with a Welcome to Country given by community Elder, Aunty Diane O’Brien, the backbone and driving force behind Mingaletta.

MC and OWN Secretary Jennifer Brown gave a brief talk on the group’s purpose, philosophy and community projects.

Models were Genelle Solomon, Sybil Ker, Barbara Stoddart and Fay Maitland from OWN and Michele from Sarongs and were dressed and styled by Sarongs proprietor Leanne

Kowalczyk and her daughter Jemma.

Local hairdresser Melissa Gregory volunteered her services and Samantha Paton helped with makeup and music for the parade.

IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM

HILL,

MCKENZIE,

Ronald Keith 19/5/1936 – 2/3/2023 Late of Lisarow, formerly of Ourimbah & Gosford.

Reading this? So are

Devoted husband of Wendy (dec).

Loving father of Tonia & Steven and their families.

200,000

The funeral for Ron will be held in its entirety in Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 92 Serpentine Road Terrigal on Thursday 16 March 2023 commencing at 11:00am.

OTHER PEOPLE Call - 0493 641 652 Email - sales@centralcoastnews.net or see the website for rates www.coastcommunitynews.com.au

random pieces of plastic but we were very happy that there wasn’t any sharps in sight, although there were a few broken glass alcohol bottles found in the garden behind the toilet block,” she said.

“After we returned to our hall, we sat down and discussed why it is so important to look after our environment and to make sure that the rubbish goes into the right bins rather than ending up in our waterways where they can harm the wildlife.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at the service to The Samaritans.

More than 100 people attended

Mackay Family Funerals (02) 43 622 733

Source: Media release, Mar 5 Deepwater Older Women’s Network

John Richard Late of Diamond Beach and formerly Tascott Beloved Husband of Judy, Adored Father of Janine, Robert, Michael and their families.

Aged 85 years Forever in our Hearts A funeral service will be held at Manning Great Lakes Memorial Gardens on Monday 13th March 2023 commencing at 11am followed by a private cremation.

Allan Pearse Funerals 02 6554 5433

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Council forges ahead with waterfront plan Central Coast Council will forge ahead with early works on its redevelopment plan for the Gosford waterfront, despite not having yet secured any State Government funding to see the project through.

Council says there is “strong support” for a revitalised waterfont, with a report on community response tabled at the February 28 meeting following a preliminary engagement summary in December.

Council’s Director Environment and Planning Alice Howe said the community consultation provided important feedback, including good suggestions to improve on the Concept Plan.

“Feedback received during the public exhibition of the Gosford Waterfront and Stadium Concept Plan opt-in consultation and independent market research survey, revealed 81.5 per cent and 93 per cent positive feedback, respectively,” she said.

“The feedback included comments and suggestions on the need for additional parking, support for increased recreational opportunities along the waterfront, how to

address the Central Coast Hwy ‘barrier’ to ensure easy connections to the waterfront from the CBD, and also the question of public land being used for residential development.”

Howe said feedback received through the initial consultation phase and subsequent phases will inform the next level of detail for the initiative, which is a detailed masterplan and business case, down the track, with further opportunities for community input as the project progresses.

“Without a doubt there is strong support for a revitalised waterfront – which will form an anchor of a revitalised Gosford CBD,” she said.

Council CEO David Farmer said the re-imagining of the Gosford waterfront is a longterm project which will stimulate significant employment and economic activity through the planning, development and operational phases.

“Gosford is recognised as the Central Coast’s principal city in the NSW Government’s vision for Greater Cities region.

“For Gosford to realise its potential, it must be connected to its waterfront, and the

waterfront must be a place for people,” he said.

He said a revamped waterfront precinct would integrate with the new University of Newcastle Gosford campus and TAFE and more than $1.3B in mixed use development approvals in the Gosford CBD. Farmer said Council would fund early works elements required to support a business case with $2.2M from its Land Development Reserve, established through the sale of Kibbleplex, as it continued to advocate for NSW Government funding.

“The application of funds from this reserve to the waterfront project is consistent with the intended reserve purpose,” he said.

“Should Council receive funding from the NSW Government for the waterfront project, it is intended that the Land Development Reserve would be reimbursed.”

Farmer said while Council would complete early works the early work, the intention to hand the project over to the State Government remained.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the project was not

only a major opportunity for the city’s renewal, but would see Gosford City join the great waterfronts of the world.

He urged the State Government to provide the $8.5M needed for a business case and master plan, saying the Labor Party has committed $8M if elected on March 25.

The item attracted one speaker at the public forum prior to the meeting – activist Norm Harris, who said the report contained an “embarrassing number” of errors and was “unaccurate and misleading”.

He called for another report and said a lot more studies needed to be done.

Harris said the figure cited by Council of 93 per cent in favour included responses which were neutral and the actual figure for support was 77 per cent.

“The report is obviously providing the narrative the Council wants,” he said.

“The highest feedback rating across all channels including attractor, neutral and detractor, was 21 per cent for views.

“Surely this should be taken into account in relation to whole development and people’s affinity with the natural views that currently exist from the water’s edge and the stadium.”

Harris said using the funds from the Kibbleplex sale for a study for the Gosford waterfront development was not a suitable or consistent use of the funds.

He said as Council continues to sell public land and carparks there should be no allocation of funds to studies for the Gosford waterfront, with State Government funding for the project not guaranteed.

Terry Collins

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Council’s partial backflip on Peninsula carpark sale Continued from page 1 Former Member for Gosford and for Peats Marie Andrews said that in 2012 the then NSW Labor Government invested $19.9M into the expansion of the site to increase its capacity, including an additional 11 disability spaces.

“I am outraged about the suggestion that this carpark be sold off,” she said.

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce President Matthew Wales said it was the lack of community consultation which was especially concerning.

“This matter should have been up for public discussion before it ever made it into the business papers,” he said.

“There has been no transparency, no discussion.

“Discussions on the sale are being kept confidential and that is of deep concern.

“We need to know how a price is being determined and that the ratepayers will get value for their dollar out of any sale.

“Administrator Hart seems to have forgotten who he is responsible to – he should have realised this would be a sensitive issue.”

Peninsula Residents’ Association was blindsided by ADVERTISEMENT

the announcement, along with the rest of the community.

Spokesperson Michael Wilder said the group would be looking for further information.

“We just want to know what’s going on,” he said.

In response to feedback, Hart announced on Thursday evening he has asked CEO David Farmer to pause negotiations between Council and any prospective owner of the commuter carpark until after the March 25 State election.

Once negotiations resume, he has asked the CEO to ensure the community’s perspectives are considered before any agreement is finalised.

Hart said he has taken on board the concerns of community members and Tesch.

“I understand the sale of a public asset to a private owner can raise alarm bells for the community, regardless of the fact that safeguards remain in place to protect parking in Woy Woy for decades to come,” he said.

“I agree with the community that commuter car parks at public transport hubs on the Central Coast are essential.

“However, Council does not

Council will pause negotiations on the sale of the commuter carpark

need to own rail commuter car parks to achieve this outcome, just as it doesn’t own schools, hospitals or police stations, which are also essential to the community.

“Commuter car parks are the responsibility of the State Government and the Council does not own any other commuter car park on the Central Coast.

“Council’s preference was to align the Woy Woy commuter car park to these traditional ownership structures and transfer the site to Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

“However, to date, TfNSW has declined to take on this responsibility, despite TfNSW owning another commuter car park adjacent to Woy Woy station, with plans for expansion.”

Hart appealed to Tesch for her

support in encouraging TfNSW to buy the carpark should she retain her seat on March 25.

He said Council is responsible for renewing the car park, at an average cost of around $270,000 per year, receiving a peppercorn rent of $1 in return.

Transferring the site off Council’s books would save this amount plus any eventual replacement costs.

Negotiations on selling Council’s Option Deed to acquire 220 car park spaces in the Deepwater Plaza carpark will remain unchanged, with assurances from Hart that any profit from the sale would be allocated for community infrastructure projects in the Woy Woy area.

Tesch said the statement “clearly indicates” that Council is forging ahead with the privatisation of the section of

the shopping centre carpark.

“This means the community’s rights to own the 220 additional car spaces in the centre of the Woy Woy CBD for $1 in December 2032 will be privatised,” she said.

“Unless Council is fully compensated for the loss of all potential revenue it would receive above $1 in 2032, this decision makes very little economic sense.

“If you were to inherit a property in the centre of Woy Woy for $1 in nine years’ time, you would have to be a foolish to throw that away for the price it’s worth today.

“I am also deeply concerned that there is no guarantee that this sell-off (wouldn’t) provide a catalyst for the developer to introduce fees for shopper parking.

“Council’s confidential negotiations between CEO David Farmer and Raptis blocks any ability for community input or accountability into a decision which may have a long-lasting economic impacts on our family budgets.

“This decision doesn’t make any economic sense and I doubt that our community will be fairly compensated for the rights Council is willing to

throw away for a cheap revenue hit.

“I continue to call upon Central Coast Council to reverse its decision to private our community assets”.

Chamber of Commerce President Matthew Wales said while the decision on the commuter carpark was welcome, the situation should never have arisen in the first place.

“For such an important sale of a community asset, the Council should always have consulted the local community in the first instance and fully explained the Council’s position,” he said.

“Regardless of whether or not people agree with the sale, the views of the community are paramount so that the Council can make a balanced decision.

“Above all, open and free access to car parking spaces for both shoppers and commuters is extremely important and any discussions on a sale of the asset need to provide these guarantees.”

Tesch has set up a petition opposing the sales and is urging the public to sign it at https://forms.gle/ kVMFARudVFiCi1Dr9.

Terry Collins

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Central Coast to trial hydrogen powered bus The state’s first hydrogenpowered electric bus will soon take to the streets of the Central Coast in a local trial of the technology.

Treasurer and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said the trial was one of many that were paving the way to a zero emissions future by bringing together industry and the transport and energy sectors.

“These hydrogen buses are the first step in growing our green hydrogen industry which is estimated to grow the NSW economy by an extra $600M each year from 2030 onwards and attract $80B in investment by 2050,” Kean said.

Minister for Regional

Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the trial is an important milestone in the plan to transition the state’s 8000plus public transport buses to zero emissions technology.

“The Government is keeping our state moving forward by investing in the technology that will deliver widespread benefits to our communities, commuters and our economy,” he said.

“The new hydrogen bus is believed to be the first of its kind manufactured in NSW and we know this trial will be key to supporting the development of the hydrogen industry right here.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member

The trial will take place from Monday, March 6, until the end of June

for Terrigal Adam Crouch said unlocking hydrogen use in the heavy transport sector will ensure investment in clean technology, grow the economy and support regional jobs and manufacturing.

“This state first trial will help determine the most suitable zero emissions technology to deliver the best services for our regional and rural communities,” Crouch said.

“Hydrogen may have the

potential to travel longer distances without refuelling and have faster refuelling times, which is an important factor in regional NSW. “Red Bus has already conducted a trial using a

battery electric bus so this trial will allow for a direct comparison between how electric and hydrogen perform in the same location.”

The project is a partnership between the Department of Planning and Environment, local bus manufacturer ARCC, Central Coast operator Red Bus, and Origin Energy.

The new hydrogen bus will be in service from Monday, March 6, until the end of June.

More information is available at https://www.transport.nsw. gov.au/projects/currentprojects/zero-emission-buses.

Verified Source: Media release, NSW Government

Upgrade for Narara Community Centre The Narara Community Centre has received almost $11,000 for its Community Support and Outreach Services (Community SOS) as part of the 2022 Community Building Partnership Program.

The centre, which aims to promote inclusion and community interaction, will use the funds to fix draining and extend the outdoor paved area.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the funding will allow the centre to be more practical and accessible.

“It is fantastic to see the work that Community SOS do, and I am glad this funding can allow them to create a functional space for the kids to do hands on activities in the fresh air,” she said.

“The upgrade will make the centre more accessible and practical, creating a community

hub for the area.”

Community SOS CEO Vivian Muraahi said the funding will go a long way to ensuring a quality facility.

“The funding allows us to create a practical functional space for people that use the facility, especially the children,” she said.

“Our focus is on bringing the community together and providing a safe space.

“We can’t do that if we do not have adequate facilities.”

Tesch said Community SOS was the first non-government community organisation on the Central Coast.

“I am glad to see that after more than 50 years they are still serving the community,” she said.

Source: Media release, Feb 24 Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch celebrates the funding with Community SOS

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Call to keep control of wetland in community hands The newly formed Protect Central Coast Wetland Alliance has called on the NSW Government to provide assurances that the Central Coast Wetland, located on the former Pioneer Dairy at Tuggerah, will not be placed under an administrator.

“We have written to the Minister for Lands and Water, Kevin Anderson, seeking his assurances that the Crown Lands Trust for the Central Coast Wetland will not be placed under the control of a NSW Government-appointed administrator,” spokesperson Anne Craig said.

Craig, who has been involved in the protection of this site for over 30 years, said the NSW Government needs to take urgent action to retain a committee of management for the site, comprising suitable community representatives.

The Central Coast Wetland

“Crown Lands recently advertised for expressions of interest to recruit new trust committee members for the site and they can expeditiously repeat that process to fill recent vacancies on the committee of management,” she said.

“We are certain that if more vacancies are advertised there will be more than enough suitably qualified applicants to ensure the trust continues to benefit from a strong community-focused committee of management.

“The Central Coast community is tired of being placed ‘under administration’ by the NSW Government and we cannot find a reasonable explanation for the Government wanting to take yet another of our natural

assets out of our community’s caring hands.”

Mike Campbell, who campaigned to stop the former Pioneer Dairy from being the site of a coal mine and coalfired power station in the 1980s, said Minister Anderson may not have been aware of the site’s history and its importance to community wellbeing and to biodiversity on the Central Coast.

“The Central Coast Wetland was protected and placed under the management of a community committee after a concerted, long-term campaign by a dedicated group of residents,” he said.

“Since then, countless hours have been spent by local volunteers regenerating the site to a point where it is now a thriving and viable wetland environment, attracting significant migratory bird species, providing habitat for

threatened and endangered species and contributing to the health of Wyong River and the Tuggerah Lakes system.

“At a time when Central Coast Council is under administration we are urging the government to keep the iconic Central Coast Wetland under the management of a community committee.

“There is no reason for Crown Lands to place this site under administration – all it needs to do is advertise another EOI and recruit new committee members.

“We are asking the Government to have a little faith in the people of the Central Coast to fill the committee vacancies and get on with protecting and promoting this magnificent natural asset.”

Source: Media release, Feb 16 Protect Central Coast Wetland Alliance

Coast commuters could save thousands under toll cap scheme Central Coast residents could save thousands of dollars in tolls if the Labor Party wins government at the March 25 State election.

Labor will introduce a $60 weekly toll cap to help combat skyrocketing toll charges.

Coast commuter who travels to Sydney each day Monday to Friday would save over $8,000

per year in tolls under the scheme, with some drivers paying up to $47.76 every day - or $238.80 per week – to get to work.

The cap would be on top of

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Vote 1 Aunty Colleen Fuller for the Upper House Vote 1 Lisa Bellamy for Gosford • Save Kariong Sacred Sites for all • Recognize Guringai as a true coastal tribe

the existing toll rebate and M5 cashback schemes.

Drivers would not pay more than $60 a week in tolls under the cap, which would be in place for two years beginning on January 1, 2024 It would be administered by Service NSW, with any tolls charged above the cap refunded on a quarterly basis.

A Labor Government would also appoint Professor Allan Fels, former chairman of the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), to lead an overhaul of the toll network.

He would be responsible for negotiating with tolling operators to drive a good deal for motorists; and look at longterm reform options to overhaul the tolling system in NSW. His review and recommendations would be made public, wold be open to submissions and consult with

the transport sector and the toll paying public.

Central Coast Labor MPs say the plan would get the balance right between short-term, immediate toll relief over the next two years and long-term reform.

Shadow Minister for Roads John Graham joined local Labor MPs on February 27 to announce the move, saying the Liberals’ “toll mania policy” is hurting the family budget.

“We recognise that people right across the Central Coast are paying thousands of dollars in tolls (and) only Labor has a plan to combat rising tolls,” he said.

Shadow Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the move would provide relief to those people who are forced to use toll roads for their daily commute and Member for The Entrance David Mehan said the tolling system is way out of

touch.

“Capping these costs makes sense and will mean more money for the family budget,” he said.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the plan would put more money in the pockets of commuters immediately and put downward pressure on the ballooning cost of living.

“Coasties are paying out of their noses to get to work; we will end this huge cost to families,” she said.

Candidate for Terrigal Sam Boughton said everyone on the Coast has family or friends who have to commute to Sydney for work or study.

“Labor’s policy will help to ease the rising cost of living pressures for Central Coast households,” he said.

Source: Media release, Feb 28 Central Coast Labor MPs

• No logging in Ourimbah • No Juveniles in detention • Stop taking Indigenous kids off their families • More alternative schools. Reform the NSW Education and Standards Authority • Massive boost to social housing to end rental crisis • Lands Councils are meant to protect Indigenous land - not sell it off.

Authorised by Gab McIntosh / Friends of Guringai 2 Dandaloo St, Kariong Indigenous Party of Australia

From left: Member for The Entrance David Mehan, Shadow Minister John Graham, candidate for Terrigal Sam Boughton, Shadow Minister for the Central Coast David Harris and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch (front) at the announcement

THURSDAY, 9 MARCH 2023

PAGE 7

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Central Coast Council news and community information

ADMINISTRATOR MESSAGE

Rik Hart

Moving ahead on Gosford waterfront’s revitalisation

At the 28 February Council meeting, staff provided an update on the Gosford waterfront’s revitalisation project with a comprehensive engagement report – which has been extensive.

In addition to the previous community feedback received on the Gosford waterfront’s revitalisation (including the Gosford Challenge), Council staff sought community feedback through: •

multiple drop-in information sessions

•

meetings with key government stakeholders

•

• • •

$2.44m funding for beach access projects

Have your say to help shape Wyong and Tuggerah

For more information, search ‘beach access projects’ online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Have your say by 10 March at yourvoiceourcoast.com

Vehicle and pedestrian access points at Soldiers and Jenny Dixon Beach, that were damaged by severe storms in 2021 and 2022, will be replaced or repaired with the $2.44million in funding provided by the Australian and NSW Governments as part of the 2021 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Program.

Wyong and Tuggerah are growing and we’re putting in place a district plan to shape the area’s future. We want to ensure The Wyong District Place Plan reflects the aspirations of our community.

Participate in the online survey and tell us your ideas on how we can create better places and an even stronger community.

business leaders and operators forums

written feedback

detailed information on the interactive concept plan on YourVoiceOurCoast.com independent market research.

I have also had many conversations with the community about this key project, most recently at the Australia Day community event where I hosted a pop-up stall. People were overwhelmingly keen to see this project progress.

Such extensive community engagement on this key enabling project for the region has given me great confidence in allowing its progression by resolving to allocate $2.2M to enable key elements of the project to progress.

I urge whoever forms government after the March 2023 NSW state election to provide $8.5M to undertake a business case and Master Plan for the Gosford Waterfront precinct, to unlock Gosford’s full potential.

Exciting new skate park being built at Kariong

Crews cleaning beaches at the crack of dawn

For more information, search ‘kariong skate park’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

For more information on beaches, go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

A new skate park and pump track, designed for a range of ages and abilities is under construction of Kariong Oval. Community engagement activities resulted in 302 online survey submissions, which guided the concept designs and planning of this project, which also includes seating, shade, water re-fill station, waste bins and new landscaping.

Rise and shine! Council staff have been busy keeping our beaches pristine before sunrise, so you can enjoy the best of the beaches on the Central Coast. Our Beach Cleaning Program is rolled out across all of our patrolled beaches and a number of other locations during the patrol season (September to April each year).

Did you miss the last Council meeting?

Re-watch the webcast on our YouTube channel. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/meetings

What’s on? Go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events

Did you know?

Chemical CleanOut this weekend

Discoloured water can occur at any time, but it is most common in early spring and summer when water use increases. Increased use of water causes more water to flow through the water network which can stir up sediment that has settled during winter.

In the event of discoloured water, residents are advised to run the front garden tap for 60 seconds every half an hour to check if the water has cleared.

Clear out your unwanted and out-of-date residential hazardous items.

• Sat 11 and Sun 12 March • 9am to 3.30pm • Council’s Long Jetty Depot (Cnr The Entrance and Wyong Road, Bateau Bay) For the full list of chemicals that can be dropped off call 131 555 or visit cleanout.com.au

Learn more, search ‘discoloured water’ 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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The go-to guide for community services across the Coast A new comprehensive guide to community services on the Central Coast was launched last week by The Entrance Rotary Club.

The club’s Director of Community Services, Joe Scicluna, said it was often difficult for people to find information about where or how to seek help at a time when they needed it most.

“We are trying to support and empower people through their journey, no matter what type of adverse life event they are experiencing,” he said.

The Directory of Community Services Central Coast is a useful resource for individuals as well as community advisors or service providers needing to find services and programs on the Central Coast to meet their needs.

“We are trying to make it easy to seek suitable help by not having to navigate through complex websites,” Scicluna said.

“You can access each website or email address by just one click on the item if you are viewing the Guide on a digital device.”

The Directory of Community Services Central Coast is a collaboration of The Entrance Rotary Club and Freemasons

on the Central Coast and will be available in booklet format and online.

The 102-page guide contains

thousands of entries with phone numbers, email addresses and click-on web links on the digital version, as well as a short description of each service.

Topics covered are: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders; Accommodation/housing; animal shelters and services; community meals; disability services and carer respite; domestic violence; drug and alcohol services; emergency relief services; family and parenting support; financial and gambling services; health services; Helpline/Lifeline;

legal support; LGBTIQA+; Central Coast Council libraries; low-cost groceries; men’s services; mental health services; migrant and refugee services; Police, op shops; seniors; shower and laundry facilities; veterans’ services; women’s services; youth.

You can download the Directory at https://issuu.com/ apmgraphics/docs/ ccservicesdirectory2022 or to receive a hard copy email admin@rotarytheentrance. org.au Sue Murray

Parklands upgrade to be completed this month Major infrastructure works are set to be completed at Mount Penang Parklands this month.

The works mark the final stage of the $16M upgrades delivered by the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC).

They include infrastructure and service upgrades and rebuilding and landscaping on Frank Rd (formerly Baxter Track) and Parklands Rd. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the works will help Mount Penang reach its potential as

Students from Kariong Preschool give tradies a hand on site

an active and sustainable place for recreation, education and work.

“These works will not only support future investment and activity but they’re also making the Parklands easier to navigate, safer and more attractive for the hundreds of people who use them every day,” he said.

“The Frank Rd upgrade has created a much-needed second entrance to the precinct, including reducing traffic bottlenecks during peak school times and improving access for Riding for the Disabled visitors and the Department of Community

Justice facilities.”

Works were undertaken by Bolte Civil, a Central Coast company with a focus on providing opportunities for Aboriginal workers and supporting women in construction.

HCCDC Chief Executive Valentina Misevska said users of the Parklands were already taking advantage of the improvements.

“The new roads and landscaping around the café look amazing and I’m particularly happy to see more than 30 additional droughtresistant trees, improved lighting and more than 100

new parking spaces,” she said.

“It’s also easier to walk and cycle through the parklands, with new shared pathways and pedestrian safety features installed.

“We were thrilled to have some pre-schoolers from Parklands Community Preschool help us plant some of the new trees this week.”

Final works on Parklands Rd and additional works to adjoining internal roads are set to be completed this month.

Source: Media release, Mar 2 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch

Funding for two major road repair projects Two major road repair projects on the Central Coast will receive funding under the NSW Government’s $312.5M Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said $8.458M would be provided for major repairs along Wisemans Ferry Rd and $2.6M would fund work along the Old Pacific Hwy between Mooney Mooney and Calga.

The first-of-its-kind package will allow roads and transport assets to be built back better enabling them to withstand future extreme natural weather events.

“Our region and (regions) further across northern NSW have endured unprecedented hardships and devastation,” Crouch said.

“Getting these betterment projects underway is something we all can’t wait to see.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the projects are

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Repairs along Wisemans Ferry Rd will be funded under the package

among 57 rolling out across the state.

“The NSW Government is

moving our state forward by building back better the infrastructure projects needed

to withstand future extreme weather events and emergencies,” he said.

“This program is just one part of the Government’s plan to build our transport infrastructure to withstand future disasters, reduce recovery costs, keep our communities and our supply chain connected.

“A re-elected NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will commit a further $300M for a Build Back Better program to invest in more resilient state, regional and local road and

transport infrastructure across regional NSW.” The Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package is equally co-funded by the Federal and NSW governments.

Further information about the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package, including the full list of successful projects, is available here: https://nswroads.work/rrtrp.

Source: Media release, Mar 1 Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch

FREE SEMINAR CHALLENGING WILLS

This free public seminar is being given by Brazel Moore Lawyers to help people understand what to expect, so they know where they stand in: • Challenging a Will; or • Defending a Will from Challenge The theme is to educate people about the options and choices available to them if they have been left out of a Will - or if you want to leave someone out of your Will - alerting you to the pitfalls and procedures in dealing with Challenging Wills and how you should best

deal with challenges.

Mr Geoff Brazel, Solicitor will present the seminar on Challenging Wills to help you through the maze of legal regulation The seminar will be presenting in a friendly relaxed atmosphere and there will be plenty of time for your questions.

You’ll be helped a lot in understanding the system and will then be able to confidently consider what steps you need to take to properly consider challenges to Wills.

WHERE: Mingara Recreation Club WHEN: 21 March 2023 TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm WHERE: Gosford RSL Club WHEN: 4 April 2023 TIME: 6:45pm - 8:00pm

Call 4324 7699 to reserve your spot now!

Experienced down-to-earth help and advice throughout the Central Coast

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Progress association reaffirms opposition to Kariong development Kariong Progress Association (KPA) has reaffirmed its opposition to a proposed development on Woy Woy Rd in the wake of a statement from Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) implying the association was on board with the project.

The statement said that a meeting between DLALC and KPA in December concerns had been addressed by both parties relating to the the Land Council’s proposed 70-house development on the the Kariong site, leading to a better mutual understanding.

“Many who oppose what we are trying to achieve for our people and the broader community with this site would not know of the excellent work of the Kariong Progress Association and DLALC with regards to progressing the proposal,” the statement said.

But KPA say this is misinformation.

“While the recent stakeholder meeting with DLALC was indeed open and frank, and KPA now has a better

Residents and activists gathered on February 17 to protest the development.

understanding of the objectives of the land council, KPA is most certainly not on board to help move the Kariong housing development proposal forward,” spokesperson Geoff Mitchell said.

“Kariong ProgressAssociation does not support the proposed development of Kariong Sacred Lands and calls for its continued protection for its ecological and cultural significance as well as its lack of suitability for a housing development.”

Mitchell said the overwhelming feedback received from KPA members and residents is that the proposed development, on the site known as Kariong Sacred Lands, is highly unsuitable for the estimated 70 houses planned.

He said the development would be a huge strain on already overused local services and resources, such as roads and water, the safety issues around fire hazards, increased

litter, damage by domesticated pets to wildlife in bordering National Park, and the loss of habitat and natural bushland in a site currently zoned as E2, Environmental Conservation, by the NSW Government.

“This E2 zoning is the highest protection, outside of a National Park, due to its ‘ecological, scientific, cultural or aesthetic value’,” Mitchell said.

“As such KPA does not condone or understand how

rezoning can be allowed to make way for a housing development, regardless of the developer.

“Woy Woy Rd is a council owned road and KPA has received confirmation from Central Coast Council it has no intention, or budget, to upgrade Woy Woy Rd, and (we) are extremely concerned for the consequences of the increased traffic flow.

“Woy Woy Rd is already

congested during peak hours and the result of up to 140 more cars accessing the road is a safety, road overuse and congestion issue.”

Mitchell said the site, which is in a high-risk fire zone, was inappropriate for a suburban housing development.

He said KPA has also met with the local Traditional Owners of Kariong Sacred Lands, who present a strong opposition to the proposed development due to the cultural and environmental significance of the area.

With the overwhelming feedback from locals opposing the proposed development due to environmental, cultural, aesthetic, traffic, real estate and community health and safety reasons, KPA has joined calls for the NSW Government to permanently protect the land by maintaining its current E2 zoning or including it in Brisbane Water National Park, on which it borders, and compensate the Local Aboriginal Land Council accordingly.

Source: Media release, Feb 22 Kariong Progress Association

ERINA HEIGHTS CHAPEL Creightons Funeral Service (part of the Palmdale Group) invite you to tour and book our Erina Heights Chapel at 376 The Entrance Road, Erina Heights.

This conveniently located chapel offers the latest in audio-visual services and facilities for memorial and funeral services.

For a complimentary Pre-Paid quote or assistance, please call our 24 hour careline on

4324 1533 creightonsfuneralservice.com.au

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Camps back in full swing at Breakaway Camp Breakaway at San Remo is going through a reset after the Covid downturn, starting with 40th anniversary celebrations, a dance night for the disabled last Friday and four camps coming up this year.

“Covid affected us pretty harshly and donations dried up a bit but now we’re coming out the other side and have four camps in the pipeline to start up again,” Manager Dean Grant said.

The first camp will start on March 20 with a four-day program for adults living with disabilities.

Breakaway held its first camp

The vast grounds of Camp Breakaway offer plenty of activities

for people with disability back in September 1982 with the aim of enhancing the lives of children and adults with disabilities and their families.

To celebrate the 40th

anniversary, special events were held to thank volunteers, sponsors and donors who have helped the organisation to grow into one of the most successful and enduring small charities in

Australia.

Just before Christmas, a Twilight Market was held with craft stalls, entertainment, food trucks and a gathering of the Classic Ford Owner’s Club who

made a generous donation to the charity on the night.

The evening was judged to be a huge success with hundreds attending and even Santa managed to squeeze in a visit, with presents for the children.

“The two events showed what support there is in the community for the unique service we provide for people with disability, and we always welcome any new volunteers to help,” Chairperson Jenny Taaffe said.

“We have also become very popular with people celebrating significant events in their life by hiring our fantastic facilities and have received awards for the best wedding venue on the

Central Coast.”

Camp Breakaway is a not-forprofit organisation run by volunteers, providing camps and other programs for the disabled, senior citizens, frail aged, along with supporting families with children or adults with a disability.

The camps offer respite for families and carers and provide campers an opportunity to meet new people, encourage selfreliance and independence, and helps them to become less conscious of their disability while facilitating a better understanding of their situation.

Sue Murray

CEN to host two candidate forums The Community Environment Network (CEN) will host two candidate forums at the Ourimbah Campus of the University of Newcastle (UoN) in the leadup to the March 25 State election.

Residents living in the electorates of Wyong, The Entrance, Terrigal and Gosford will have a chance to find out how candidates standing in those seats will work, if elected,

to protect the Coast’s lifestyle, natural and cultural environments, biodiversity, sustainable development and local infrastructure needs and respond to the climate crisis.

The first forum, covering candidates standing in the electorates of Wyong and The Entrance, will be held on Wednesday, March 15, from 6.30-8.3 in Lecture Theatre 102.

The second, covering

Comprised of three stunning retirement villages and one affordable housing village, Peninsula Villages offers retirees and those with care needs a fresh approach to supported living.

candidates standing in the seats of Terrigal and Gosford will be held on Thursday, March 16, at the same time in the same lecture theatre.

Residents wishing to ask questions during the forum will be required to submit them via email to cen@cen.org.au before the forum.

Moderators will then select questions to ask the candidates in a Q&A style forum.

Members of the public can

register to attend the forum via cen.org.au/events with registrations open from Wednesday, March 8, until 9 pm on Tuesday, March 14.

“We know that most Central Coast residents love our local area and care deeply about protecting our lifestyle and the environment, but these topics have hardly been discussed as part of this election campaign,” CEN Chair Gary Chestnut said.

“We have spent the past five

Offering distinct levels of care including aged care, dementia care, palliative care and respite care as well as independent living, there is something to suit the needs of every senior community member on the Central Coast.

out of seven years with our Council under administration, we have been told we are now one of Six Cities and that our population must grow by 88,000 by 2040 but we are one of the regions most impacted by the climate crisis in Australia.

“This is the community’s chance to find out what the local NSW election candidates will do for sustainability on the Coast if elected to the state parliament.”

The events will be run in a Q&A

style with Chestnut and Willis putting a selection of questions to candidates.

Candidates will also be given a three-minute opportunity to make opening remarks and closing remarks.

Registrations can be made at cen.org.au/events before 5pm on Tuesday, March 14.

Source: Media release, Mar 7 Community Environment Network

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Policy statements give food for thought The policy statements by Adam Crouch and David Harris (CCN380) in the runup to the election were an interesting contrast.

It was also significant that they chose to deliver their addresses in front of the UDIA, rather than in a public forum where they might have been asked a few pointed questions.

They could, obviously, count on the UDIA not to put them in too embarrassing a spot about their policies, as the UDIA seems to be a favoured body with the government these

FORUM days.

Obviously, Mr Crouch had the harder task of the two, as he had to explain how, after 10 years or more of making a shambles of planning on the Central Coast, the Government has suddenly seen the light and is going to overcome all difficulties in the term ahead.

He emphasised the importance of the Six Cities concept, which is highly gratifying, since no government has given it the slightest

attention, since it was put forward in 1968.

After a 55-year delay, our politicians have suddenly discovered it as the way ahead, so, perhaps, we’ll really see some action on it in, say, another 55 years’ time.

Other than that, he could only point to such mammoth achievements as Rugby League Park and the so-called university campus in Gosford – not an inspiring record.

Mr Harris didn’t bother with the big picture.

He went straight for the

jugular with a call for “reversing the neglect of the past 12 years” in the housing sector.

He touted “Labor’s comprehensive plan to address housing supply, deliver a fairer deal for renters, and make regional housing more affordable”, although this comprehensive plan was actually conspicuous by its absence.

The creation of Housing NSW “to better direct resources to where they’re needed” sounds distressingly likely like the much-vaunted appointment of our modern Coordinator-

General a few years ago, and we’ve all seen what a resounding success that has been.

Mr Harris did reflect the view of many that there needs to be “less time spent developing new plans and glossy brochures and more purposeful time given to delivering important projects”, so he deserves credit for that, if not a vote.

However, UDIA got right to grips with the most urgent concerns of every Central Coast resident – “reduced development assessment timeframes at Council, the

delivery of infrastructure to unlock the existing (development) pipeline and the delivery of a sustained pipeline of development”.

It is reassuring that a member of our new Developers’ Committee has the basic interests of residents at heart and can be counted on to represent community values when decisions on our future are being made for us by our betters.

Email, Mar 4 Bruce Hyland, Woy Woy

Nuclear power is a possibility Your front page coverage of (the super battery) project at the site of the old Munmorah coal fired power station made me smile (CCN380).

By 2035 NSW will lose between 10,000 and 12,000 megawatts of coal fired

FORUM stations base load power and Eraring (2,680Mw) will close by 2025.

This Waratah project is a super battery only; it stores whatever is generated only and

has a capacity of only 850Mw. Do you think anyone from State or Federal Government would be able to estimate what the volume of intermittent renewables will be operational by this very early date?

It has to be higher than 10,000MW due to its

intermittent operation.

Do you think our Federal Energy Minister could provide an estimated cost of buying the necessary wind farms and solar panels from China and in addition the cost of 10,000km++ of new ugly transmission lines to achieve

this goal?

Nuclear power reactors (SMRs) with an operational life of at least 60 years (Sellafield UK) ran for 66 years relatively trouble free and contributed to a reduction of carbon emissions of 2.3 billion tonnes over its lifetime.

Renewables have a lifespan of 20yrs maximum, To my simple logic , blind Freddy could decide the most effective course of action, no more comments required.

Email, Mar 3 Rod Fell, Kincumber

How about a community forum?

So the “Major parties outline plans to take the region into the future” (CCN issue 380).

I haven’t seen any talk of community forums for voters to attend to hear, and comment on, these plans (or even quiz pollies about their “plans”), but the major parties-(ALP/LNP) are courting the Urban

FORUM Development Institute (UDIA) as if the UDIA has the sole right to comment on the environmental disaster pending for the Central Coast.

If one reads the article it was about “finding a balance” but that balance was lost in the breathless “major growth

priorities”, land rezoning for “thousands of homes”, “infrastructure to open up the land” and the only moment of fact in the whole article (was)”we have lots of issues with roads”.-.stating the bleedingly obvious.

Reading on I learned that the Central Coast “is becoming more and more significant in

the Sydney story, and that’s great for the region”.

What’s not great for the region will be the import of development practices from western Sydney where the destruction of great swathes of bushland will beget rows and rows of house with nary a space for a tree or bush to live, but lots of concrete, asphalt,

heat and pollution.

Finally, right near the article end, to give us succour, there is talk to “enhance lifestyle” whilst “the manifesto supports improving environmental outcomes” (a bit of greenwashing snuck in?).

The environmental outcomes, however, will be supporting growth.

The environment is now something to exploit, not protect.

To quote Joni Mitchell “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot” – or soon will be in a suburb close by.

Email, Mar 4, 2023.

Michael Chamley, Entrance

The

We need details of parties’ plans for future Make your vote count I was reading my Coast Community News last week and came to Adam Crouch’s full page ad listing his achievements.

Pretty Beach Public School $40,00, Copacabana Public School $40,00 Erina Tennis Club $5,878 and what appears to be Fairhaven for an indecipherable amount.

Then I started thinking about the promises his boss (Premier Dominic Perrottet) is

FORUM making for residents of Western Sydney.

Hundreds of millions for new/upgraded hospitals, millions for new/renovated schools, hundreds of millions for roadworks and upgrades and billions of dollars for new train lines.

While I am very happy for the lucky people out west I am just wondering why some

of this largesse can’t be splashed about here on the Peninsula?

Then I received (Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch’s) flyer in my letterbox.

It sets out details of the $2.3M delivered to the local community since 2017.

That equates to about $500,000 a year.

That is very good and the recipients are very grateful, I am sure.

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What I was really hoping for was details of her plans for the next four years.

Perhaps she could have a meeting with us (so we can) and let her know what we would like to see happen around here.

It is after all taxpayers’ money they are spending.

Email, Mar 5 Laurie Powell, Woy Woy

Here we are again with an optional-preferential NSW election, in contrast to last year’s Federal election which employed its exhaustive preferential system.

It saddens me, when scrutinising, to see that some people in effect exclude themselves from making an effective vote because they fail to put a number against at least one of the two final count contenders.

On the Central Coast, it is almost certain that each seat

FORUM will go again to a Labor or a Liberal candidate.

So if we choose to put our lowest number(s) against other candidates, we need to remember to put the next number against one of the two major parties.

Personally, I still like to play safe and number the lot!

Email, Mar 1 Sonnie Hopkins, Tascott

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Rayon Riot at the Naughty Noodle

Tabby Katz (left ) and Corrie Hodson

The Naughty Noodle fun Haus will present Rayon Riot on March 11 in honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, which this year has the theme of embracing gender equality.

Sold out annually for the past four consecutive years, Rayon Riot is one of the largest International Women’s Day events on the Central Coast

and this year Naughty Noodle will once again shine a spotlight on the breathtaking diversity of women’s voices.

Creative Director and previous NSW Woman of the year finalist Glitta Supernova will present a multi-generational line-up of female artists exploring resilience, empowerment and liberation through live music, storytelling, burlesque and cabaret.

Performers will include jazz musician The Magical Ms G, internationally renowned feminist performance artist Betty Grumble, aerialist Tabby Katz, local singer songwriter and proudWiradjuri/Ngunnawal woman Corrie Hodson and performance maker Carlee Heise.

“This is an opportunity to challenge your assumptions, bust apart stereotypes and

celebrate in a fun and vibrant way with an evening of original, contemporary, cutting-edge theatre performance,” Supernova said.

“This year’s International Woman’s Day theme is #EmbraceEquity and we would love for everyone to come join us and celebrate women’s achievements while we also raise awareness of bias (even our own).

“Expect the unexpected, expect diversity as the norm, expect to hear, see and feel the revolution.

“It’s all about fun and selfexpression at the Noodle and we strongly encourage dressups, so adorn yourself as your favourite Shero.

“Grab your partners, Grandmas, sons and daughters or your entire gal pal crew for a

wild and special evening celebrating all things women.”

Rayon Riot will be at the naughty Noodle Fun Haus, Ettalong Beach, at 6.30pm on Saturday, March 11.

Online bookings only at naughtynoodle.com.au/whatson.

Source: Media release, Mar 7 Naughty Noodle Fun Haus

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NAISDA dancers collaborate with NIDA A weeklong collaboration between the Central Coast’s own NAISDA Dance College and the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) recently brought together aspiring designers, directors, dancers and choreographers for an intensive exploration of creative partnership, cross cultural storytelling and multidisciplinary approaches to performance.

The unique program of collaboration first began in 2019.

This year Wakka Wakka and Kombumerri dancer, choreographer and performer Katina Olsen led the invaluable learning experience Crossing the Line at the NAISDA campus on Darkinjung Land at Kariong.

Leading First Nations artists and cultural contributors also included Dr Nerida Blair, Nardi Simpson and Uncle

Participants in the collaboration

Gavi Duncan.

The program of on Country learning, workshops and sharing encouraged students to consider cross cultural arts practice and explore the space between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowings and

non-Indigenous perspectives.

The week culminated in a creative showing of works developed by the students during the collaboration.

Olsen said there was no way to write a formula for collaboration.

“You learn to collaborate as you’re collaborating,” she said.

“The week was about getting to know each other, how to relate to each other, how to bring your skills to the room, how to give space, take space and share space – which are all

incredibly valuable learnings for those pursuing a career in the arts.”

The week also gave students the opportunity to step into different roles, learn about multi-disciplines and build pathways and networks.

“The week gives students the chance to work intensely alongside people from diverse practices,” Olsen said.

“They’ll carry this understanding and respect of different creative disciplines with them into their professional careers.”

This was the first year NIDA design students took part in the collaboration.

Course Leader in Design at NIDA Bob Cousins said the focus of the week was on the process, not the outcome. “(It was about) how we work together, develop ideas and collaborate,” he said.

“We’ve seen dancers contribute incredible costume designs and design students

really embedded in the movement of pieces.

“It was beautiful watching the collaboration unfold.”

The collaboration has grown into an important and established part of the NAISDA and NIDA annual programming.

NAISDA Unit Manager Angie Diaz said it enables students from both organisations to refine skills, build relationships and prepare for careers in the creative industries.

“It was wonderful to see NIDA directors and designers collaborating with NAISDA First Nations dancers and gain insight into creating with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists,” Diaz said.

“This is an important platform towards building culturally safe and supportive creative spaces and conversations to navigate that space between Indigenous, non-Indigenous and diverse communities.”

Source: Media release, Mar 2, 2023, Brilliant Logic

YIPA auditions coming up Youth in Performing Arts (YIPA) will hold auditions from March 20-April 6 and is on the lookout for talented Central Coast residents aged 12-21.

Set to be staged at Laycock St Community theatre in May, the series of various concerts, now in its 32nd year, showcases the region’s best young talent.

“For our auditions, we are

Keeva Brodt-Fisher performs at the 2022 concerts

looking for vocalists, dancers, instrumentalists, bands, actors – basically any young performer that has something entertaining to share,” YIPA Director Gary Jackson said.

The YIPA auditions will be held at various locations across the Central Coast between 20 March and April 6.

There are weekend auditions and the YIPA team will also be visiting a number of local high

schools, dance and music studios across the region.

If you would like to know more about Youth In Performing Arts and how to audition, go to the Youth in Performing Arts Facebook and Instagram pages, the Laycock Street Community Theatre Website or call 0449 295 051.

Source: Media release, Mar 2, 2023, YIPA

Take a trip back to the ’70s with BABBA For years BABBA has been thrilling audiences worldwide with its superb re-creation of 70s super group ABBA and its legacy of hits and Central Coast audiences can see the tribute band live at The Art House, Wyong, on March 12.

In 1994 a plot was hatched at a pub in Richmond, Victoria, to create the best ABBA tribute band in Australia and BABBA is still wowing crowds all over the country and internationally.

The show is more than the songs of ABBA – it is about memories, songs that take us

another place and remind us of people and places and times that have touched our lives..

From the glitz and glamour of the costumes and dance moves, all served up with a Swedish accent, to the precision and expert delivery of the music; every element of the show will transport audiences back to 1977.

Not a single hit is missed, with audiences encouraged to sing along.

From the gentle ballads with angelic harmonies to some rock and roll excitement, musical finesse of the show is polished and precise.

The show will include such hits as SOS, Waterloo, Fernando, Thank You For The Music, Money Money Money, The Winner Takes It All, Does Your Mother Know, Take A Chance On Me, Dancing Queen, Ring Ring, Mamma Mia and many more in the two-hour concert spectacular.

Just as ABBA rose from Eurovision winners to winners taking it all, the show builds and climbs.

Book for the show on the Art House website or by calling 4335 1485.

Terry Collins

BABBA with original ABBA band member Benny Andersson

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Weekend of festivals in the north This weekend, March 11 and 12, is festival time at two waterside suburbs in the north, kicking off with the Lighthouse Festival on Saturday night and Long Jetty Festival on Sunday.

Now in its sixth year, the Lighthouse Festival has cemented itself into the Australian festival landscape as a premium music, food and wine experience bringing together a collection of the best local producers and an enviable live music line-up, all set against the picturesque coastline at Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve.

The handpicked selection of incredible Australian musicians who will take to the stage from

The Rubens will be playing at Long Jetty Festival

5pm includes Pete Murray, Pierce Brothers, Garret Kato, Darren Middleton (Powderfinger) and D’Arcy Spiller, Jye Sharp, David McCredie and Bree Rusev.

On Sunday, from 10am to 6pm, the Long Jetty Festival will set the lakeside suburb abuzz showcasing all things art, culture, music, good food and more than 250 local artisan market stalls.

With music an integral part of the event, Aussie rockers The Rubens will headline as well as performances by Meg Mac, Little Quirks, Tropical Zombie, Sam Windley, The Rams, Punk Rock Hillbilly and there’ll be local buskers and musicians roaming the foreshore throughout

the day.

The Jetty will be bustling with an array of various zones and activations including the Craft Bar area with small batch brews on offer, the Street Art quarter, the eco-friendly Green Zone with organic fruit and vegetable producers and speakers or drop by the Kids Corner for endless fun for the young ones.

Also, there will be cultural and educational talks, workshops and masterclasses and dedicated chill-out zones to throw down a blanket overlooking the famous long jetty for sunset to round off the weekend of festivals.

Sue Murray

Lisarow Country Fair on March 18 Lisarow Public School P&C will present the school’s biennial fair on March 18.

Held every two years to raise funds for the school’s technology and infrastructure needs, the Lisarow Country Fair always attracts large crowds.

This year’s fair, to run from

9am-3pm, will appeal to all ages with carnival rides, showbags and a variety of stalls.

The last fair, in 2021, attracted large crowds There will a barbecue on the day, along with street food vendors, local crafts, kids’ games, a sideshow alley, raffles, an auction and

entertainment.

Stalls will include plants, books, white elephant and cakes.

More information can be found on Facebook – search Country Fair 2023.

Source: Media release, Mar 6 Lisarow Public School P&C

Temporary road closures in Terrigal

Carnival rides will feature again this year

Calling all photographers

A temporary road closure will be in place from 5am - 5pm on Saturday 25 March 2023 for the Flavours by the Sea event.

The Terrigal Esplanade, between Campbell Crescent and Kurrawyba Avenue, will be closed with no vehicle entry or movement between 11am-3pm.

Disabled parking is available in the Wilson Road multi storey parking station as well as specified parking locations in Terrigal.

The bus stop along the Esplanade will be relocated to Kurrawyba Ave between Hudson Lane and the Esplanade.

There will also be no parking on the eastern side of Ash Street for the duration of the road closure for the Flavours by the Sea event.

A FREE shuttle bus service will be in operation for the event.

For the full schedule, please visit lovecentralcoast.com/flavours-by-the-sea David Farmer Chief Executive Officer March 2023 Central Coast Council Office 2 Hely St Wyong 8.30am - 5pm, Monday to Friday | Ph 02 4306 7900 Chief Executive Officer David Farmer

Member for Robertson Gordon Reid wants established and developing photographers to get snapping

A competition to recognise established and developing photographers has been launched by Member for Robertson Gordon Reid.

The competition will identify striking photographs of the Central Coast region, with three winning photographers receiving prize vouchers for their work.

Reid said he looks forward to receiving some breathtaking entries.

“The Central Coast is home to beautiful landscapes, and we are so lucky to live in such a stunning region of our country,” he said.

“I want our home-grown

photographers to capture just how special our region is.

“I am launching this competition to recognise striking photographs of the Central Coast region, by established and developing photographers.”

Reid said as well as attracting prizes, the three winning entries would also feature in his electorate office and his office in Parliament House, Canberra.

The competition opened on March 1 and will end at 5pm on May 31.

The winning photographers will receive gift vouchers to John Ralph’s Camera House

in Erina.

To enter, interested photographers will need to take a striking photo of a landscape on the Central Coast.

There are no limits on how creative you wish to get with your photograph.

Entrants must live in the Robertson electorate and be aged 16 years or older to enter.

For further information or to submit your entry, call 4322 2400 or email Gordon.Reid.

MP@aph.gov.au.

Source: Media release, Mar 1 Member for Robertson Gordon Reid

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Enjoy some comedy for a cause

From left: Tommy Dean Daniel Townes Mat Wakefield and Bruce Griffiths

The Rotary Club of Gosford City will present a night of laughter at Central Coast Leagues Club on Friday, March 31, to raise money for Care 4 Coast and other charities.

Half of the proceeds will go to Care 4 Coast, with the remainder going to support local groups Top Blokes and

Pacific Links Tenant Support Programs and international projects supporting high school students in the Philippines.

Appearing on the night will by top comedians Tommy Dean, Daniel Townes, Bruce Griffiths and Mat Wakefield.

Dean has been seen on Spicks and Specks, Good News Week and Rove Live and has

appeared at the Sydney and Melbourne International Comedy Festivals.

Townes has appeared at various comedy festivals around the world, including Just for Laughs in Montreal and the Edinburgh comedy festivals, as well as in Melbourne and Sydney.

Has appeared on Good News

Week, The Footy Show, and Stand-up Australia.

Griffiths is a Triple J Comic of the Year winner and an Aria award winning writer for Good News Week and The Glasshouse.

Wakefield has appeared at the Sydney Comedy Festival and the Sydney Fringe Festival.

Care 4 Coast is 24/7 support

for people in need, supporting vulnerable people with meals and services in Gosford CBD. “Every laugh we get at our Comedy For A Cause Event will put a meal on a plate for someone struggling with the cost of living on the Central Coast,” Rotary club President Peter Clarke said.

“Get your friends together for

a great start to a Friday night.”

The show will begin at 7pm on March 31 at the Central Coast Leagues Club, with general admission and VIP Dinner + Show - tickets available at Comedyforacause. net/RCGC. Source: Media release, Mar 7 Rotary Club of Gosford City

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A PINCH OF SALT

Brazilian chicken stroganoff

Chef Daniel with Brazilian striker for the Central Coast Mariner’s - Moresche

Chef Daniel’s next guest is the young Brazilian striker for the Central Coast Mariner’s - Moresche.

Moresche, aged 24 (whose full name is Matteus Celestino Moresche Rodrigues) moved to the Central Coast nearly 2 years ago to play for Mariners after playing football professionally in Singapore and Brazil.

He damaged his ACL in 2022 and after much rehabilitation.

After a two month trip back to Brazil for rest, Moresche is happy to be back on the Central Coast and played his first game back with the Mariners this year (2023).

In this episode, Chef Daniel makes Brazilian chicken Stroganoff with the ‘no vegetables’ preference of Moresche.

Moresche admits that he isn’t much of a cook, but with this simple recipe he thinks he might even be able to impress his chef girlfriend and his mum one day.

If he can do it, we can too!

Stroganoff was first thought to be heard of in 1891 when a French chef cooked Beef stroganoff as a winning dish in a cooking contest, supposedly naming it after the wealthy Russian family he worked for.

However, when you dig deeper, it seems like Stroganoff is a fusion of flavouring dishes with mustard as purely French,

crossed with cooking meat in sour cream as famously Russian.

Whoever it is named after, it became synonymous with the rich and elite and was even adopted as a favourite in China in the 1920’s.

Scan the QR code or see our website for full video

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Visit Chef Daniel’s pages: https://chefdaniel.com.au/about-chef/ https://www.facebook.com/chefdanielaus https://www.instagram.com/chefdanielaus/ https://www.youtube.com/c/chefdaniel

Recipe Ingredients: • ½ large diced brown onion • 8 cloves of garlic peeled and chopped • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • 300ml of cream • Tablespoon of vegetable/cooking oil • 1kg Chicken breast • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper • Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: 1. Add oil to hot pan and fry the onion and garlic cook for 1 minute on high.

2. Add chopped chicken cook for a further 2 minutes on high.

3. Add tomato paste and cook on high for a further 2 minutes.

4. Add a cup of water and turn down to medium heat for 10 minutes.

5. Add salt and pepper to taste and half a cup of cream.

Cook on medium for 4 minutes or until sauce thickens.

6. Add lemon pepper and stir. Ready to serve.

Serving suggestion: Serve with rice.

Tips: For true Brazilian style garnish with parsley and add fried potatoes into the mix.

Free writing workshops this month Local libraries will host a series of free writing workshops this month as part of Central Coast Writes, a community project which develops true stories from local writers and connects them with emerging artists to illustrate.

Presented by Adrienne Ferreira of Bravewords, and supported by Central Coast Council and 5 Lands Artists Collective, Central Coast Writes is cultivating a stronger writing community on the Coast by encouraging more people to build writing skills, form writing groups, and connect across the generations through storytelling.

Erina resident Faye Kepper was nervous when she first signed up for Central Coast Writes last year, but from the first workshop she was delighted to discover her creative capabilities.

Since then, her writing has gone from strength to strength.

“Coming together with likeminded local residents, making new friends and sharing skills I didn’t know I was capable of — I have achieved so much and it has given my life a new sense of value and enjoyment,” she said.

“Adrienne has given me the confidence to write from my heart; a whole new world has opened up to me.

“Some of us have gone on to

form our own writing groups and taken part in other Bravewords classes to work on longer pieces.

“My goal is to leave my family some stories from my most fortunate life.”

The first life writing workshop will be held on Monday, March 13, at Tuggerah Library, followed by the Erina Centre on Wednesday, March 15, and Woy Woy Library on Friday, March 17.

To register for a workshop and discover more about Central Coast Writes, visit bravewords.com.au Source: Media release, Feb 27, 2023, Bravewords

Faye Kepper developed a story for the Central Coast Writes project, which was illustrated by emerging artist Ben Stewart

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Business & Property Mudtec leads the way in sustainable building materials

Owners of Mudtec Will Eastlake and Kenney LeMire The blocks are unfired and have many environmental benefits

Compressed earth blocks are the key to sustainable construction in the future and Somersby company Mudtec is making inroads into the relatively new market.

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Owned and operated by Kenney LeMire and Will Eastlake, the company had its beginnings in 2019 and has survived two years of COVID lockdowns to stay afloat.

“Will and I are both building designers and studied architecture together,”LeMire said.

“We designed a couple of houses for Narara Ecovillage and specified compressed earth blocks as ideal building materials.

“But when they went to go to construction, these blocks weren’t accessible on market.

“Another couple of men from the village also wanted compressed earth blocks for their homes so the four of us joined forces to create Mudtec in July, 2019.

“We set up at Somersby in an open-air hardstand which we have since covered with a shade structure and bought some equipment.

“We were lucky that a suitable machine popped up on social media and it seemed like everything was aligning.

“The machine was 30 years old but we still use it today.”

When the two home owners dropped out of the enterprise,

LeMire and Eastlake decided to persevere with Mudtec.

“The business went through a few different phases,” LeMire said.

“We almost morphed into a construction company and hired a block layer as part of the team as well as some other staff.

“But we eventually decided against moving in that direction and started to down scale and focus on producing the blocks.

“It was slow going during the pandemic but we have a renewed focus this year and are planning a marketing push.”

LeMire said the blocks had been used on many homes in the ecovillage and around six homes outside it.

“These blocks have many advantages,” he said.

“They are unfired with hugely reduced embodied energy and all soil used is local.”

The earth blocks, 250 cm x350 cm, are roughly equivalent in size to four and a half normal bricks.

They are either solid or with two holes for electrical wiring or plumbing work to pass through and are made from a mixture of special soil, brickies’ sand, clay, lime, water and oxide to colour.

The mixture is compressed and allowed to dry in the sun on pallets and plastic to slow the drying process with no baking ovens used.

“They use only 6-7 per cent cement as opposed to up to 30 per cent in concrete Besser blocks and being unfired they breathe, take on water vapour, purify air, reduce internal humidity and create nice internal comfort level,” LeMire said.

“The blocks are big and heavy with a lot of thermal mass – when used correctly they can really help the solar passive qualities of a house.

“This is one of the tools we should be using in construction – the blocks have a lot of benefits over other products on market.

“They are essentially rammed earth walls but in brick form, a fraction of the price of other materials and can be laid by bricklayer.”

The blocks are not only used for architectural walls in domestic application but are also being used for landscaping and retaining walls.

They are strong and solid and environmentally conscious.

They are also fire resistant like stone which is a great choice for building in bush fire prone areas or where fire proofing is essential.

They are natural in colour and complement architectural façades when used beside timber on sandstone.

To find out more go to https:// www.mudtec.com.au/.

Terry Collins

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Delivering affordable rental housing at The Entrance Pacific Link Housing will partner with Central Coast Council to deliver more affordable rental housing at The Entrance.

The project is a key initiative from Council’s Central Coast Affordable and Alternative Housing Strategy, which was published in 2019.

Pacific Link Housing has been working with Council for many years on developing the strategy with an objective to build new, much-needed housing on the Central Coast, including on Council-owned land.

Council will transfer land at 23-25 Ashton Ave to Pacific Link for $1 for the project.

Pacific Link Housing Chairman Wal Edgell said he looked forward to progressing the development pipeline and working with Council, local architects, consultants, contractors and the local community in developing affordable housing and potential community space.

“The proposed development will benefit all of the community, from both a social and economic perspective, and provide secure housing to those in greatest need in our community,” he said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the strategy was a comprehensive plan addressing initiatives across the housing continuum, from homelessness through to home ownership, providing pathways for a range of households, from very low through to moderate incomes.

He said Pacific Link Housing demonstrated a strong understanding and empathy of requirements in line with the strategy.

Pacific Link Housing CEO Ian Lynch, said the proposal would have an integrated tenancy mix, largely comprising affordable housing for key workers, with other tenancies along the housing continuum.

“The partnership will be a positive step forward to help address the acute shortage of

Pacific Link Housing Chairman Wal Edgell and Council Administrator Rik Hart

affordable rental housing we are experiencing on the Central Coast,” he said.

“We are pleased to see progress made since the inaugural Central Coast Housing Forum held in September 2022, which brought together over 100 business leaders from industries affected by the housing shortage.”

In addition to its core tenancy management services, Pacific Link Housing is committed to delivering a continuous development pipeline of mixed tenancy housing.

Council CEO David Farmer said the three parcels of land that comprise 23-25 Ashton Ave have a current book value of $2.1M and are classified operational; the transfer will

result in an asset disposal loss in the 2023/24 financial year.

“Council is in a position to be able to do this due to (its) improved financial performance,” Farmer said.

“Council has received higher than anticipated income on its investments which can be used to offset this loss on asset disposal.

“Council strongly believes that this decision is the one which is ethically responsible and will be of great benefit to the Central Coast community which is key to Council’s overall commitment.

“The desired outcome of this project is to create an affordable housing development that offers social and affordable housing to 70 per cent of the tenants and limits private tenancy occupants to 30 per cent.

“It should be noted that it is typical for grants of land at nominal prices to be awarded in circumstances of developments of affordable homes.”

Farmer said the contract for sale will include a sunset clause for substantial completion to be completed within three years of the transfer, or the land to return to Council ownership.

Administrator Hart said there was a common misconception that affordable housing refers to social or community housing.

“This is not true - affordable housing is much more than this and a diverse mix of housing types is required to meet the needs of our community,” he said.

“Over half (63 per cent) of all households on the Central Coast earn below $2000 a week and need affordable housing.”

Pacific Link Housing will own and manage the property in the long term, providing asset and tenancy management as well as the coordination of wraparound support services as needed.

Terry Collins

A new voice for women lawyers in the regions Central Coast-based lawyer Michelle Meares is one of four founding members of a new organisation which aims to give women lawyers in regional, rural and remote NSW a new voice.

NSW Regional Women Lawyers (NRWL) has been formed to ensure current and future women lawyers in those areas have the same benefits and opportunities as their Sydney CBD colleagues.

Meares said the new body is about inclusion, consultation, diversity and increased regional representation for all NSW women lawyers.

“We will provide support to women lawyers in regional, rural and remote NSW and advocate on key issues

impacting them,” she said.

“There is a serious shortage of lawyers in regional and rural NSW. “Our group will work with all legal groups including the NSW Law Society and regional law societies, the Women Lawyers Association of NSW, regional law schools and the Law Council – the latter having a national attrition and retention strategy.

“There is interest from women lawyers to make the move to regional areas for reasons including lifestyle and a better work life balance.

“But they can experience unique issues such as distance and resulting lack of collegiality, isolation, lack of critical services for their clients, impacts of climate and, in some areas, significant socio-

Michelle Meares speaking at the group’s first event

economic disadvantage.

“Women lawyers in the regions play important roles in their communities and undertake significant probono work.”

More than 50 people attended the group’s first event in

Stop consider and

Newcastle last month.

Guest speakers were chief integrity officer and former dean of the School of Law at the University of Wollongong Trish Mundy and lawyer and academic turned business consultant Dr Natasha Cica.

The pair discussed the challenges and opportunities of being a woman lawyer outside Sydney and how women lawyers can influence justicerelated change.

They were introduced by Professor Tania Sourdin, dean and head of the Law School at the University of Newcastle.

Mundy’s academic areas of interest are gender issues and regional legal practice.

She co-authored the book Place of Practice – Lawyering in Rural and Regional Australia.

Cica studied law and worked as an academic at ANU. For the past 20 years, she has been working to design and deliver change and has a business developing the capacity of individuals, teams and organisations.

She studied law and worked as an academic at ANU and has worked as a political adviser.

A second event – a one day conference – will be held in Orange on March 24.

It will cover topics including attracting and supporting more women lawyers in the bush as well as ways the legal sector can assist in addressing the health crisis in regional and rural NSW. NSW Regional Women Lawyers is now welcoming members, with chapters being established across NSW. For more information go to www.nrwl.org.au.

Source: Media release, Mar 3 NSW Regional Women Lawyers

Check the facts this State election elections.nsw.gov.au

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Raise a glass to Six String’s 10th birthday Six String Brewing at Erina celebrated its 10th birthday with a birthday bash on March 5 and a 10 year limited release can for its Pale Ale. “In 2012 when we were setting up the brewery there was only really a handful of breweries in NSW and even fewer outside of the Sydney area,” owner Chris Benson said.

“Selling the idea of the local brewery took some convincing for Central Coast locals but one schooner at a time we’ve changed a few opinions and hope that Coasties are proud to be able to call us their local.

“With an industry that has grown faster than we can keep up with sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in trends, but we

Six String Brewing owner Chris Benson

have some strong flagship beers that we proudly stand behind.

“Beers like our Dark Red IPA, our very first brew, which was pretty unique at the time.

“While Red IPA’s are now fairly commonplace we think this brew still holds strong in

the market 10 years later.

“We love pushing the boundaries with our beers but have also learnt (sometimes the hard way!) where our strengths are.

“With an AIBA Champion Lager and an Indies Champion Pale Ale over the last few years, we must be doing a few things right.”

Benson said appearing at community and music events had seen the company grow faster than it had planned.

“We are so excited for the next chapter for Six String to start,” he said.

“2023 will see Six String relocating to a new venue, just up the road, with a greater brewing, seating, and storage capacity.

“We have absolutely been

bulging at the seams for the last few years.

“Coming out of a few years of uncertainty with lockdowns and the changing landscape, our sales and distribution networks are starting to build back up.

“This move cannot come soon enough as we are at absolute capacity where we are.

“The building is about to go ahead and … you should be able to visit us by October.

“It’s 10 years on and we are only really just getting started and cannot wait to jump into the next 10.”

Source: Media release, Mar 3 Six String Brewing

Changing of the guard at Lighthouse Reserve Reflections Holiday Parks has been appointed by the NSW Government to manage Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve from September 2023.

As a Crown Land manager, Reflections has Social Enterprise Certification as a profit-for-purpose organisation which re-invests all its profits back into the care, environmental and social benefit of the 43 community Crown Land nature reserves and 36 holiday parks it manages across NSW. It is the only holiday park operator in Australia that is certified as a social enterprise and in 2022 Reflections contributed more than $83M in economic value to regional NSW communities.

Chair of the present Norah Head Lighthouse Land Management Board, Neil Rose, said it was an exciting new chapter for the reserve with a bright future to continue prospering as one of Central Coast’s most prominent Crown Land reserves.

“It’s only a small reserve but has four main business activities – tours, accommodation, weddings

Greg Sullivan (centre) represented the Minister for Lands and Water in February to present Service Recognition Awards to members of the Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve Land Management Board (from left) Ken Greenwald, Colin Paulson OAM, Neil Rose, Ian McNaught and Doug Darlington

and the little tourist shop – and I think it will continue much the same as it is now,” he said.

“The number of activities connected to those is quite huge, as well as the grants and projects already on the go, so in the coming months we will help make it a smooth management transition to Reflections.

“They’re a big company and they generate a lot of income … I feel pretty good about it, time moves on.

“I won’t be disappearing, work by Minister for Lands and had all worked tirelessly in the 138around Robina Centre Drive Robina Qldto4226 maybe I’ll stay as aTown Water, John Anderson, who past nurture the lighthouse volunteer or put hand3275 up for Robina said he was “rapt and very POmyBox Town Centre Qldreserve.

4230 the advisory Tel: committee and 36 a appreciative”.

“Having visited the site many 1300 0867 Fax: 1300 81 8962 few of the other volunteers say The five Board members - times and spoken with the email:too,” artwork@localdirectories.com.au they’d be interested Rose Ken Greenwald, Colin Paulson volunteers, we know first-hand www.localdirectories.com.au said.

OAM, Neil Rose, Ian McNaught how much work they dedicate A Norah Head Reserve and Doug Darlington - were to it and how precious a Community Liaison Group will presented with the Minister’s resource it is to the community,” be formed later to provide local Service Recognition Award. he said. knowledge and input on Reflections Group Operations Reflections CEO, Nick Baker, management of the reserve.

Manager, Cameron Tynan, said sees their appointment as new In February, Board members his organisation was dedicated managers of the lighthouse were recognised for their to working with the volunteers reserve as a “privilege”. dedication and outstanding and the existing Board which “Together with the reserve’s

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volunteers we are committed to maintaining free public access to the reserve, helping volunteers deliver on the reserve’s future plans and building a strong relationship with the community,” he said.

2022 was a year of achievements for Reflections $3.5M was re-invested in Crown Land reserves managed by councils and community groups, $2.6M to Reflections Crown Land nature reserves and $3M to cross-subsidise the operation of inland parks and reserves - in turn creating and maintaining jobs in regional communities.

Reflections invested $16.9M in park developments and upgrades, with a further $34.8M planned for 2023 to grow regional NSW tourism, and $9.1M was re-invested into their parks and community Crown reserves, which are vital habitats for animals and plants, as well as being treasured playgrounds for regional communities and visitors.

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Pearl farm bounces back after devastating floods For the past two years, Broken Bay Pearl Farm has been on the road to recovery from the devastating effects of three major flood events, following unprecedented bushfires and a global pandemic.

A spokesperson said the culmination of the three floods led to the biggest hit the pearl farm has experienced since it began in 2003, wiping out its total population of adult and juvenile pearl shell.

And now Broken Bay Pearl Farm has reached a major milestone in its recovery with the first seeding of pearl shell in many years.

After opening its doors to the public in 2018, Broken Bay pearl farm was on the brink of major expansion.

Set to increase its production of seeded pearl oysters from 30,000 per year to more than a million, NSW’s only pearl farm as poised to expand its offerings of locally grown pearls and immersive pearl farm experiences from its Shellar Door on the banks of the Hawkesbury River.

This was to include the introduction of an entirely new seafood delicacy to the local market – Akoya pearl

James Brown

oyster meat.

All this changed after the three flood events.

The pearl farm took the main hit from the first flood in 2020, losing almost all breeding, juvenile and harvest-ready pearl shell for both seafood and pearls.

“It was heartbreaking for our team to see years of hard work go down the drain and literally wash out to sea with the remarkable plume of freshwater that is reported to have gone 30kms out into the Pacific Ocean,” owner James Brown said.

“A small number of adult pearl shell, which are found in the wild and collected by pearl divers for broodstock, miraculously survived those floods.

Akoya seeding taking place

“This created the chance to start over again with the next generation of baby pearl shell nurtured by a team who have worked tirelessly to rebuild the pearl farm from scratch.”

During the second and third floods, Broken Bay pearl farm had less to lose, and it seems that new ways of dealing with these extreme events may be paying off.

“Somehow today, with the passage of time and a massive team effort, we find ourselves with surviving pearl shell that are stronger and healthier than ever, ready to be cultured for a pearl that we hope to harvest in a few years,” Brown said.

As it can take four to five years to grow a pearl shell and then a pearl, natural disasters such as floods can wipe-out a

pearl farm, setting it back many years assuming it is even able to get back on its feet.

Brown said pearling is a longlead game with best efforts ultimately resting in the hands of Mother Nature.

“We learn from each major blow how to prepare for and better handle our pearl shell and farming infrastructure in extreme and sometimes catastrophic environmental strikes,” he said.

“Perhaps these disasters will help people understand the true value of a pearl – the massive effort, huge risks and ultimately, the offerings of our natural world.”

In April last year, Brown woke to the news of a third flood about to hit the pearl farm, the same night a cyclone was

bearing down on his WA pearl farm north of Broome at Cygnet Bay. “I am not sure it gets any more stressful than this as a pearl farmer – but our teams on both sides of the country responded incredibly well and I am proud to say that both pearl farms are well and truly on the road to recovery,” he said.

The team at Broken Bay Pearl Farm is celebrating the start of pearl seeding this month with the ultimate goal – a beautiful gem harvested from local waters - now only a couple of years away.

In more good news, Broken Bay Pearl Farm, in collaboration with the James Cook University genetics team, is set to announce the start of an important Akoya pearl shell

breeding program.

While it will take years before the farm is cultivating large numbers of shell again, the building blocks to revive the business are in place and James Brown is confident Broken Bay pearl farm can bounce back.

In 2020 James Brown was the first pearl farmer to be named Australian Farmer of the Year, in recognition of his innovation and resilience after surviving the devastating effects of climate change and the global financial crisis.

Ironically, the honour was bestowed just as the first flood event hit.

Like his pioneering grandfather Dean Brown, who established the company 77 years ago, he knows that through hardship and adversity you need to innovate and adapt, find a new way forward, and learn to do things better.

“I am confident that everything we were working towards prior to the floods will pay dividends and believe it or not, after overcoming all these challenges, I can actually see light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

Source: Media release, Mar 1 Pearls of Australia

Have your say about offshore wind farm Submissions will be accepted until Friday, April 28, on a proposed offshore wind farm 10km off the Hunter coast between Port Stephens and Norah Head.

Feedback from the community and other stakeholders will help the Federal Government decide if the proposed area is suitable for offshore renewable energy.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen says about 3,000 engineering and manufacturing jobs are expected to be generated through a new offshore

renewable energy industry off the coast.

“The Government is working to unlock renewable energy jobs, energy security and job security and the establishment of an offshore wind industry along the Hunter coast could support the decarbonisation and future of onshore manufacturing powered by cheaper, cleaner energy,” he said.

“The Hunter is already known for its strong industrial base, with mining, manufacturing and agriculture, proving this region already has the skill

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base for the new industry.

“The world’s climate emergency is regional Australia’s jobs opportunity, and the Hunter is uniquely placed to capitalise on this.

“Aninoffshore windof zone Fill each letter thealong alphabet once only. the Hunter coast presents significant opportunities to S L create new energy sector and E E jobs, S drive OO E S manufacturing L growth A and reduce A The SFederal Government economic emissions.”

E MS I Rpreviously A E announced another The Hunter coast is one of six four regions earmarked for T A O G S T priority E regions around offshore wind zones – off the N G A Australia with world-class Illawarra coast, the Southern I A L L E ON M offshore wind potential, with Ocean off Portland in Victoria, C H E P E A Gippsland off the La Trobe the Bass Strait off northern A region S in Tasmania and the Indian Ocean Valley E the first I home R Sto a new off Perth/Bunbury.

K AustraliaAto be offshore wind industry.

E M “We H have some of the best

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wind resources in the world – just one rotation of one offshore wind turbine provides as much energy as an average rooftop solar installation generates in one day,” Bowen said.

Offshore wind turbines are the tallest renewable energy option being proposed in the area, with current heights of up

to approximately 250m above sea level. The relative height and visual effect decreases with distance, especially due to the curvature of the earth.

“I’m looking forward to hearing from the community about the best way offshore electricity can be harnessed in the region and I encourage locals to engage with community discussions and online submissions,” Bowen said.

Submissions can be made through the Have Your Say online portal at consult. dcceew.gov.au until Friday, April 28.

Sue Murray

9 MARCH 2023

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CREATING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Brought to you by moneymag.com.au

Weatherproof your home before winter strikes WITH

Michelle BALTAZAR Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine Before too long winter will be upon us, and that usually means an increase in the cost of running your home.

Autumn presents a great opportunity to tackle some simple projects before the chill sets in, ensuring you address essential jobs and also protect you from costly repairs.

Check your water heater Is your hot water system operating well? If you have any concerns, call a plumber to check it out before it fails and you are facing cold showers.

Fill those gaps Inspecting your home for gaps and cracks that allow draughts to enter is time well spent.

Give windows and doors a thorough wash inside and out, taking care to clean out the seals and locking functions.

Replace rubber seals and seal cracks with gap filler to eliminate draughts.

Even simple “snake stoppers”, placed along the bottom of interior doors, are an effective

way to make your home more energy efficient.

Mould and mildew During winter, damp and dark environments can cause mould and mildew to thrive.

Both are harmful to your health and cause significant damage to your home.

Concentrate on bathrooms and wardrobes by going over the areas thoroughly with your choice of bacteria cleaning product or your homemade ecofriendly cleaner.

Moisture-absorbing agents can also help in preventing the growth and spread of mould and mildew.

Cleaning your bathroom exhaust fan is one of the most overlooked areas.

An enormous number of particles can build up on the blades, vents and filters.

Review your laundry Now is the time to regain control of your laundry. Assessing the areas that are simply dysfunctional, and coming up with a

fresh layout, will make your everyday life so much easier.

Storage is the key to a perfectly functioning laundry: make the most of walls and ceiling space by adding shelving or cupboard systems; prioritise access to products by how regularly they are required; set up individual baskets for laundered clothes for each person.

Warm up your décor Timber, tiled and polished concrete floors during winter months benefit from the addition of a stylish rug or two.

Not only does the textural feel underfoot add to your creature comforts, but rugs improve your

home’s efficiency by insulating your floors.

If your curtains failed to keep the light out on a sunny summer morning, they will certainly fall short in keeping the chill of winter at bay.

Adding an extra layer of lining to your curtains will go a long way to keeping the heat in and the chill out!

Check garden furniture Assess whether it would be best to clean and pack away your outdoor furniture to ensure longevity of your investment.

At a minimum, outdoor cushions can be packed away so they do not deteriorate.

When you can gain early access to your super If you suffer a serious injury, illness or financial hardship and have no funds to fall back on, you may be able to withdraw some of your super to pay your bills.

Super’s governing rules allow for early access to your savings in very limited circumstances.

Eligibility will depend on whether you qualify for access to your super on compassion-

ate grounds or due to severe financial hardship.

Both “conditions of release” have different sets of rules and processes.

Compassionate grounds include needing money to pay for medical treatment, making a payment on a home loan or council rates so you don’t lose your home and palliative care for you or a dependant.

Approval for early access on compassionate grounds is the responsibility of the Australian Tax Office.

To apply under compassionate grounds, log-in to your MyGov account: select the heading option super, then manage, then compassionate release of super. Alternatively, ask the ATO for a paper form.

For early access to super due

to severe financial hardship, you will need to contact your super fund directly.

You may be able to withdraw some of your super if you’ve received government income support payments continuously for 26 weeks and you are not able to meet reasonable and immediate family living expenses.

You will also have to pay tax

Also consider thoroughly cleaning cooking equipment, pressure-cleaning furniture and covers and checking soft furnishings for signs of mildew before packing away.

Switch fan to winter mode Switching your ceiling fans to winter mode is a great function that reverses the direction the blades turn.

This draws warm air up to the ceiling and returns it back down the walls to the floor, circulating warmth throughout your home.

By using your ceiling fan in conjunction with your heating system you can warm your home and distribute heat evenly. on the withdrawal: if you’re under preservation age, which for most people is 60, double-check what tax will be applicable because it’s 20% plus Medicare on the taxable component of your super.

Most people have most of their super in the taxable component – that’s where your employer’s SG contributions, salary sacrifice contributions and earnings go.

Before embarking on any early access applications, also

Using your fan with your air conditioner, fireplace or heater will make your room feel warmer for longer.

Air conditioning Keeping your air conditioner in tip-top share ensures the unit works efficiently and quietly, heating your home throughout the winter months.

Areas to be checked and cleaned include the filter, evaporator coil and condenser coil.

Although cleaning the air conditioner is a job most homeowners can tackle, it is important to remember that it should also be serviced at least once a year by a qualified technician.

Fire safety According to Fire and Rescue NSW: “Every winter, there are more than 1100 home fires, from which around 100 fire-related injuries occur.”

This highlights the importance of addressing home fire safety measures, such as smoke alarms, during the cooler months when many homes rely on heating equipment and systems.

Another fire hazard is your clothes dryer: cleaning the lint filter and vents is important, and is a job that should be undertaken each week.

TRACIE ELLIS

check whether your total and permanent disability (TPD) and income protection cover would offer financial relief.

Also be aware of the impact of withdrawals on your insurance, because some funds need a minimum amount to maintain your cover.

Some older style funds don’t allow early access withdrawals, in which case you can always roll over your super to a fund that does.

SUSAN HELY

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

Be on lookout for symptoms of heart disease With Heart Health Awareness Month having drawn to a close on February 28, Blooms The Chemist is urging Central Coast residents to be on the alert for possible symptoms of heart disease Heart Research Australia has found that deaths from heart disease are two times as high in Australian women than breast cancer, with many episodes occurring without prior warning and symptoms often to those experienced by men.

While men experience wellknown symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath or nausea, women may experience additional symptoms that can be dismissed as something less sinister, like back, neck or jaw pain, dizziness, fatigue, light headedness and sweating.

A survey conducted by the Heart Foundation Heart Watch

Luke Owen and a staff member try out the BP equipment at Blooms the Chemist, Erina Fair

found that despite over one third of Australian adults living with high blood pressure, just five per cent of adults nominate that as a key risk factor for heart disease.

While blood pressure may not have any obvious symptoms, it forces the heart to work harder

to pump blood to the rest of the body and Coasties are being urged to visit their local pharmacy for regular blood pressure checks.

Luke Owen of Blooms The Chemist at Erina Fair said the pharmacy was getting behind the push for more BP tests.

“Some patients can get anxious about a visit to the doctor and often a pharmacy visit is more comfortable for them,” Owen said.

“Our doctors on the Central Coast are challenged by time constraints and a lot of our customers come in for a BP

check on a doctor’s referral, often from GPs who require more regular BP checks for their patients.

“We also have a booking system for customers to arrange a BP test on their own.

“We usually do a string of readings over a number of days – the test is quick and easy and all our team members are trained in the simple, noninvasive procedure.

“We get our customers to sit quietly for a few minutes prior to each test so they have a relaxed heart rate and the results are recorded digitally.”

Owen said while sometimes results are forwarded direct to GPs, it was important for patients to be aware of their BP levels and what they mean so they can take that information to their doctor.

“High blood pressure is one of the main risk factors for heart disease and we particularly encourage regular testing for people with other risk factors

such as smoking, being overweight and/or inactive and those who have a diet high in saturated fats or salts,” he said.

“Family history can also be taken into account.”

Owen first started working at Erina in 2017, before the COVID pandemic saw him help Blooms The Chemist nationally for two years prior to his return to Erina last May. Blooms The Chemist can also make recommendations for lifestyle changes that may support a better blood pressure reading.

Every day, 110 Australians have a heart attack, making it the leading cause of hospitalisation, claiming the lives of 19 people, on average, every day.

To find out more about where blood pressure checks are available see the Blooms The Chemist website.

Terry Collins

Spreading the safety message across Australia Continuing the legacy created by his dad and uncle when they started their family first aid company, Survival on the Central Coast more than 35 years ago, Mike Tyrrell of North Avoca has taken his young family on the road to ensure all corners of Australia have access to life-saving first aid supplies.

Tyrrell is now CEO of the company, which has its headquarters and warehouse at Erina.

He and his family began their odyssey, the Great Aussie GiveBack, in January and are now travelling around the country to connect with community members and spread Survival’s important safety messages where they are needed most.

Established in response to personal tragedy, Survival is

now a globally recognised brand intent on creating a safer world for all.

Tyrell said the Great Aussie Give-Back aims is to continue the principles of giving on which the brand has been built.

“Over the past three decades, Survival has given away more than 50,000 first aid kits and educated countless individuals from Mumbai to Mudgee in proper first aid practices,” he said.

“We also make regular donations of pre-loved kits and first aid supplies to charity organisations and orphanages in Australia and overseas, as well as to first-on-ground emergency responders in all types of disaster situations.

“This trip is about taking my family on the road to help ensure even the remotest parts of our country have access to potentially life-saving first aid

The Tyrell family started its nationwide odyssey in January

resources and education around what to do in an emergency situation, which in many cases could mean the difference between life and

death.”

Having pioneered a number of life-saving products, from the award-winning First Aid Emergency Handbook to the

Smart Bandage and Snake Bite Kit, Survival partners with prominent organisations and individuals including Guy Leech, Pat Callinan, Coyote

Peterson and most recently Bondi Rescue’s Anthony ‘Harries’ Carroll, to help share its important safety messages.

Throughout 2023, Tyrell, his wife Bianca, and their three young children will be visiting every Australianstate and territory to: give away hundreds of First Aid Kits and Smart Snake Bite Bandages; educate the nation on lifesaving first aid practices, including how to effectively treat a snake bite; partner with likeminded organisations to reach every corner of the country; spread Survival’s safety message; and donate first aid supplies to remote, regional and rural communities.

You can follow the family’s journey on Instagram.

Source: Media release, Feb 27 Survival

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HEALTH & EDUCATION

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College goes from strength to strength Brisbane Water Secondary College Woy Woy Campus has been recognised as one of the top-performing schools in the state, following significant improvements in its HSC results.

The school achieved some of the strongest growth in top bands results across all NSW secondary schools.

The achievement was recognised by Executive Director of School Performance, Tim McCallum, who praised the school for its “stunning rise in Average HSC Course Mark” and by the Director of Educational Leadership, Kylee Owens, who reflected on the school’s outstanding results.

“Brisbane Water Secondary College Woy Woy Campus achieved some of the strongest

School Captain John Lennard, Director of Educational Leadership Kylee Owen, Deputy Secretary of Education Cathy Brennan, Principal Rebecca Cooper , School Captain Charli Grant and School Vice Captain Ava Lynn

improvement in Top 2 Bands and Top 3 Bands HSC results across all NSW secondary schools,” she said.

“This is the result of

outstanding leadership, deeply committed teachers and students who value their learning opportunities - not to mention a massive dose of grit,

steel and determination.”

Deputy Secretary of Education Cathy Brennan visited the campus to meet with the school’s leadership team and

congratulate them on their achievements.

“Clearly, all the right ingredients are in place so that every student is supported, connected, engaged and experiencing success each day – no easy achievement,” she said.

Principal Rebecca Cooper said the school’s success was built on the hard work, dedication, and resilience of its students and teachers.

“We have worked hard to drive school improvement as a collective over the last five years,” she said.

“Last year’s HSC results were amazing and are a testament to how hard we have all worked to focus on growth and student success.”

She said the school’s holistic approach to education,

combined with the hard work and resilience of the students and teachers, has culminated in the school’s outstanding achievement.

The Woy Woy Campus’s wrap-around support teams in Aboriginal Learning, Student Services, COVID Tutors, Wellbeing and learning support have also played a vital role in helping each child in need.

Cooper said Brisbane Water Secondary College Woy Woy Campus is an innovative school which delivers quality education, a diverse curriculum and exceptional support for its students.

Source: Media release, Feb 20 Brisbane Water Secondary College Woy Woy Campus

New MRI services at Wyong Hospital A new MRI machine now operational at Wyong Hospital means these Medicare-funded scanning services are available at the hospital for the first time.

Assistant Chief Radiographer Matthew Swift (from left), Clinical Director of Medical Imaging and Nuclear Medicine Dr Rajiv Rattan, Acting Director of Medical Imaging Aidan Hardy and MRI Senior Radiographer Nathan Coutts

The Federal Government has made good on its pre-election promise to make sure Wyong Hospital patients can get a Medicare rebate for MRI scans.

Having onsite MRI services at Wyong Hospital will reduce the need for patients to be transferred to Gosford Hospital or a private provider for diagnostic imaging, enabling treatments to commence sooner and faster diagnosis.

The new MRI machine will complement the additional CT scanner, X-ray machine and

ultrasound rooms which were included in the newly expanded Wyong Hospital medical imaging department as part of the $200M redevelopment, funded by the State Government.

Parliamentary Secretary for Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said the Central Coast Local Health District was looking forward to an expanded Imaging Team to support patient’s medical Imaging needs at Wyong Hospital.

“A senior radiographer has already commenced and has been working on the commissioning of the new machine, including work to calibrate and test the machine,” he said.

“Recruitment is now underway for another

radiographer, a radiologist to perform the reporting for the new service, a nurse to supervise the use of IV contrast used during the scans, an administration officer to facilitate the bookings and a Patient Service Assistant (PSA) to transfer patients to the machine from their hospital ward.

“These important roles are all new positions for Wyong Hospital, and we are looking forward to having them on board,” Crouch said.

The design phase for the final stage of the refurbishment of the existing hospital building is underway, with works expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Sue Murray

Push for new alternative school on Coast A group of four teachers, led by Gab McIntosh, is trying to re-establish a new alternative school for school refusers on the Central Coast following the closure of the Eagle Arts and Vocational College at Kincumber four years ago.

Gab McIntosh

McIntosh, who hopes to run

as an Independent candidate for the seat of Terrigal in this month’s State election, said the documentation to establish a new school for vulnerable teenagers is extraordinarily complex.

She said when the Eagle Arts and Vocational College, of which she was the Principal, was closed by the State

coastcommunitynews.com.au

Government at the end of 2018, 30 high risk teenagers trying to give school another were “simply tossed onto the streets” McIntosh said the group of four would email Central Coast MPs in coming days looking for support but were not hopeful of a positive reaction.

“There is a crisis happening

in education but no one seems to do anything about it,” she said.

“Teachers are drop-dead exhausted and our politicians are afraid of the bureaucrats who run education.

“Fingers crossed we make it and our struggling teenagers on the Coast get another chance at a school with no

exams but lots of art and sport and much help with reading and writing too.

“It will be the kind of school that really struggling teenagers can thrive in.”

Source: Media release, Feb 22 Gab McIntosh

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DOWN IN THE GARDEN: WORKPLACE PLANTS Planning on a home office?

Going back to work soon and want to take a green friend with you?

Indoor plants can make us healthy, happy, calm, more focused and breathe a little easier, science has proved it, but can you plonk any old plant anywhere?

The secret is, there is no such thing as an ‘indoor’ plant, just ones that usually live in the understories of forests and jungles, the shadier side of life on rocky outcrops, caves and cliffs and ones who are simply good at adaptation.

While you must ensure that your indoor environment matches your plant’s needs to thrive there are also meanings and energies that many cultures across the world attribute to plants.

Here are some of my suggestions for plants that will not only match your workspace but will bring with them some interesting and helpful energies.

Survivors These are the tough guys of the plant world, but you can also use self-watering pots and devices to do the work for you and slow-release fertilisers

w

if you want to try other plants.

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) is almost indestructible.

It adapts, half dies and revives but if you treat it nicely this plant will love you back.

It is said that this plant brings good work ethics and increases productivity.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) can handle just about whatever you can dish up and still look amazing.

Low light is also no problem for this stunner either.

Said to increase security and smooth negotiations.

An honourable mention goes to Spider Plant because while not as tough as most, they are easy to grow.

Spider Plants (Chlorophytum colosum) are enjoying a big comeback from their 1970s heyday and why not? They are also very easy to propagate from their ‘jumping spiders’.

It is said they boost mindfulness.PLANT NAME POSITION Low light Lovers Goldfussia 1P 12 Grevillea 3P 3-4 You will need to find plants Groundcovers N4 that can survive Gymea and Lilly 3Phopefully 11

Lots of Light Lovers Care needs to be taken if you have a lot of light and placement of your plants.

Do not sit them on windowsills or next to window if they don’t open as it will be akin to sticking it in an oven.

Move the plants into the middle of rooms.

Light loving plants: Swiss Cheese Vine (Monstera obliqua) likes to be in the light and makes a lovely desk plant on a trellis or even left to run along PLANT NAME POSITION surfaces.

NZ Flax 2P 4-6 Can help boost opportunities Orange Trumpet Vine 3P 9-10 and helps others your Parlour see Palm 3P 12 point Paulownia 4P 8 of view.

Peace Lilly GH Outside

Hebe 1P 11 Philodendron GH Outside Hibiscus N 11 Photinia N 18-20 Hydrangia N14 Pittosporum 3P 20-21 Ixora 1P 17-18 Plumbago 1P 14 Jacaranda 4P 3 Polygala N 17 Jasmine 3P 9-10 Ponytail GH Outside Kangaroo Paw 3P 3 Doyalson Community Garden Market Day - 1pm 11th MarchPotato Vine 3P 9+10 Kentia Palm 3P 8am 12 Protea 3P 06 Lavender 2P 7 Rhaphiolepsiscakes, 3P 02 Come along and support the garden. Plants, ‘Ken Mar’ wooden crafts, homemade Leptospermum 3P 20-21 Rhoeo GH Outside Lilly Pilly 3P 17-19 candles, ladies new & pre-loved clothing, baby clothes and Breakaway Auxiliary.

Rosemary 2P 02 Liriope GH Spirea 1P 9-10 357 Wyee Road, Doyalson, next to the church Lomandra GH + 4P 27-30 Syzygium 3P 17-19 Loropetalum N05 Tibouchina 4P 21-24 Permie Kids - Killcare, Wednesdays 3.30 - 5.30pm Magnolia 4P 17, N 17 Tiger Grass 4P 15 Melaleuca 3P 21 Tricolour-N$25 3 M 15-17 Nature based activities in the garden forMichelia 8–12-year-olds.

Bookings Essential per Viburnum 4P 1+2 Monstera GH Outside class - SMS Anna 0407 591 278. Coming up: 8 March Create a Permie Kids Edible Garden; Yucca 2P 1 Mop Top N 21 N 5-7 - Worm Farms; 29 March - Building 15 March - Exploring patterns in nature; Murraya 22 March N4 habitats for native animals; 5 April - NaturalMyoporum decorations - egg blowing and decorating.

Nandina N 10 Native Frangipani 4P 10 Bush Tucker & Gardening Responsibly - 1:30pm NSW Xmas Bush 1P 12 Saturday 11th March

Wax Plant (Hoya spp.) can be trained to climb up or along a support or left to cascade over an edge.

They also do not need much water, preferring things on the dry side.

This plant brings with it protection and prosperity.

We Like it Hot Beware, all the ways you try to cool yourself will not be taken as well by the plants but if the area is hot, try these.

Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) prefers things on the warmer side and humid side so make such you mist, mist mist! In winter they can survive with a drink every few weeks.

They boost interest and help those learning.

Succulents and Cacti are both warmth lovers and enjoy light so don’t keep these babies in the corner.

Don’t overwater as this is the usual cause of death.

With various meanings, most will bring longevity and ingenuity.

Cool Area Plants Chilled environments also usually have dry air.

If your workspace is just a touch on the cooler side, then you can try standing pots on trays filled with pebbles that

BI G

GAR DEN NEWS

GAR DENING PLANNER This week you could plant: culinary herbs, beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, carrot, cauliflower, chicory, cress, endive, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mustard, onions, parsnips, peas, radishes, salsify, shallots, silverbeet, spinach, spring onions, swedes, turnips, ageratum, alyssum, calendula, candytuft, carnation, cineraria, columbine, coneflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, larkspur, linaria, lobelia, nemesia, nigella, pansy, polyanthus, poppy, primula, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower 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’ Archived articles: florasphere.com | Send your gardening questions, events, and news to: gardeningcentralcoast@gmail.com

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The Australian Plants Society Central Coast March Meeting features a talk presented by Samantha Newton of Tonbo Garden Design. She will share news of the ‘Gardening Responsibly’ science-based initiative and give her tips on growing a bush tucker garden. $3 entry. Lucky Door prize and plants are available for sale.

Philip House, 21 Old Mt Penang Road Kariong. www.austplants.com.au

are kept moist.

Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) does need bright light, but it can live happily in cooler temperatures and as a bonus, it can stay alive for weeks without watering.

Jade Plant brings luck and financial gains.

Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginate) is a ‘false palm’ meaning it looks like a palm but is not one and this leaves us with the palm feel but a plant that can tolerate cooler spaces.

This plant will help heal relationships.

Desk Mates I’ve had a few accidents with water and plants on my desks so while you can forgo flowers

FLOWER

and plants around electronics and paperwork all together, these two can work well with you.

Painted-leaf Begonia (Begonia rex) are great substitutes for flowers with their pretty colours, but they will need to be watered with rain or distilled water.

These plants boost creative thinking and set a firm boundary.

Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.) are the perfect desk mates because there are no pots of dirt or saucers of water to tip onto your electronics.

They do need good airflow, just like you! They bring calm and peacefulness.

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thrive in these low light conditions or place a few strategic grow lights over them.

Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum) will grow in filtered light to shade and can handle the top few centimetres drying out.

In the Language of Plants, they are thought to build prosperity and block unwanted visitors.

Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa) is a shady lady as well and only needs watering once a week.

Thought to help stimulate new ideas and encourage communication.

Radiator Plant (Peperomia spp.) suits a desk but will tolerate a bit of shade.

They are very easy to grow with a huge number of beautiful varieties available.

This plant brings with it the ability to see the facts and truth.

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Little Ruby (alternanthera)

Little Ruby or Little Maroon is the perfect mounding ground cover that has stand-out deep burgundy foilage with a compact, spreading habit.

Loves humidity and can tolerate frost better than most forms.

Uses: Ground cover, border containers and green walls.

Full sun to part shade

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Crusaders teams to host Hornsby in NBL 1 East comp opener BASKETBALL The Central Coast Crusaders tip off in their sophomore NBL 1 East season this weekend with a bang, hosting rivals Hornsby Spiders at Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium.

After a less than stellar inaugural season in the newly formed NBL 1 East program, the Central Coast Crusaders come into this year with revamped lineups for both the men’s and women’s teams.

With the NBL1 still in its infancy in NSW, teams are working hard on building depth in their rosters and establishing themselves as powerhouses within the NBL realm.

Kicking things off this Saturday at 5pm, the Crusaders

women’s squad are eager to test out their new starting lineup which boasts the likes of FIBA Oceania gold medalist Maddison Penn who is coming off a back injury which halted her rise in the Australian Basketball scene.

Around Penn is a great cast of the Central Coast’s own emerging talent who are eager to prove themselves on a bigger stage.

“This year we had a really large group trial with us on both the men’s and women’s side.

We have been strong in the U23 Youth League competition and those athletes are starting to emerge in our NBL1 program.” Mikko von Lueders the Coaching Director at Central Coast Basketball said.

The men’s squad are enjoying a selection of young talent too

Photo: LookPro Photography

Jasmine Forcadilla (right) returns to the Crusaders

with last year’s squad lacking size and with the departure of Crusaders legend Callum Jenkins, the young guys have some big shoes to fill.

The most exciting news coming out of the men’s camp according to Representative Coordinator Killi Akamarmoi, the return of American import

Ajay Lawton who was a stand out in the Crusaders 2019 Waratah State Championship run.

“He’s a high energy athletic player on the court and a great guy off the court too and most importantly he knows a lot of the guys on the team he’s played with a lot of them and he knows what we’re all about here on the Central Coast.

It wouldn’t be out of the question to expect Ajay and this squad to go pretty far this year.” Akamarmoi said.

Central Coast Basketball has been working hard behind the scenes too with the goal of building the game day experience on the agenda and so far, they have not disappointed. General Manager Matthew Tredrea believes that fans can continue to expect

more from the organization this year.

“We made huge strides last year; we welcomed local institution Six Strings Brewery as our beverage sponsor and reworked our café to provide fans with stadium food staples.

We will continue to build on the game day experience and provide the Central Coast Community a great family allweather evening of entertainment.” Tredrea Said With rivals Hornsby looking to carve out their own trail in the NBL1 this season, this tip off is a perfect storm of intensity so expect a high energy atmosphere this Saturday at the Central Coast’s own, Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium.

Stefan Kataric

New ultra-light canoe for outrigger club Central Coast Outrigger Canoe Club has received nearly $30,000 for a new ultra-light canoe as part of the NSW Government’s 2022 Community Building Partnership Program.

Club President Jennifer Norris said the new canoe will allow the club to grow and continue to provide a range of different paddling experiences for members.

“With the wide range of ages and training needs at the club, the ultra-light canoe will cater for the diverse requirements of our non-competitive and

competitive paddlers,” she said.

“The new canoe is a different style of racing canoe and will assist outriggers who may need a lighter canoe to get out in the water.

“The carbon-fibre material, compared to the traditional fibreglass, means that the canoe weighs 70kgs compared to the regular 130kg.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the club had been connecting locals to the region’s waterways for 25 years.

“The funding will meet the

needs of the growing members with (this) new Ultra-Light-OC6 canoe,” she said.

“The canoe opens more opportunities for the community to get involved.

“As someone who enjoys exploring the local waterways, any opportunity to attract new members is welcomed.”

Those who want to get involved are encouraged to email centralcoastocc@gmail. com Source: Media release, Mar 1 Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch presents the cheque to club members

Mariners head to Mudgee in hunt for points

Photo: CCM Media

FOOTBALL The Central Coast Mariners team heads to Mudgee this Saturday to take on MacArthur FC at Glen Willow Stadium.

The Mariners are on the hunt

for a win and three match points after a series of draws and losses that have them stagnating coming into the last part of the regular season.

Last week’s loss against Western Sydney Wanderers was disappointing for the team

and fans. Coach Montgomery said he was obviously not happy with the result though was impressed by the spirit of the team’s play and noted that nine Academy players made up the team last week. The Mariners have slipped to fourth

position on the ISUZU UTE A-League ladder.

The Club are again putting on a bus for fans to get to Mudgee for Saturday’s game. Contact the club for details.

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Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch presents the cheque to club members

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Reid to represent Australia on international hockey stage FIELD HOCKEY David Reid of Wadalba has been selected to play for the Australian country hockey team during its tour of Singapore and Malaysia in April, following his captaincy of the NSW country state team which competed at the national challenge in Albany WA last August.

After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-10, the Hockey Australia Country Challenge returned in 2022, with the best 18 players from all states and the Australian Defence Forces selected to compete internationally.

Reid, a goalkeeper, had played for the state in the previous seven challenges, with NSW winning on each occasion.

Unfortunately, with COVID knocking out six of the team’s players, NSW came fourth in 2022, but Reid’s captaincy was

David Reid in action on the hockey field

impressive enough to land him a national berth.

This will be Reid’s 10th year playing in the Australian team overseas – he has previously competed in New Zealand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Argentina, South Africa and Fiji.

Reid currently plays in both Sydney and Newcastle hockey

competitions.

An added bonus for Reid is that he will be accompanied on the overseas tour by his partner Simone Williams, who has been selected as the Australian men’s country physiotherapist for the tour, and their 18-monthold son.

It will be third time Williams

David Reid and Simone Williams on a previous tour of New Zealand

has represented the country as a physiotherapist.

“Hockey was the beginning of our love story,” she said.

“We met when I was the women’s state team physio Townsville five years ago.

“We saw each other on the next tour and what started as a friendship blossomed.

“We were married two weeks ago.

“This might be my last tour for a few years now we have a small child – we are taking him with us this year and that will be very interesting.”

Williams has been working on the Central Coast for the past 10 years and recently opened

her practice, The Physio Rooms, at Tuggerah “We both play and support the local hockey community at the fields in Wyong,” she said.

Terry Collins

New defibs for three sporting groups Three sporting groups on the Central Coast are set to benefit from the latest round of grants through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.

Tarragal Outrigger Canoe Club, Wamberal Surf Life Saving Club and Erina Junior Rugby League Football Club are set to receive new defibrillators under the scheme.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the grants covered the full cost of the equipment, enabling more sporting organisations to benefit from the program.

“These new life-saving devices will have a big part to play in keeping players, spectators and volunteers in

our grassroots sports organisations safe,” he said.

“With more and more people of all ages participating in sport across our region this funding will equip our local sporting organisations to respond to life-threating emergencies.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said there was record demand for the devices in the latest round of the program.

“Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time and we want the same number of players that start a game to finish it,” he said.

“This program provides sports with early access to a defibrillator and ensures they are better-equipped to respond to life-threating emergencies.”

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Holly on target to represent Australia

Photo: Mike Baker Holly Parker will represent Australia in the 2023 World Archery Oceania Championships

ARCHERY

Championships.

Umina Beach High School student Holly Parker has been selected to represent Australia in the 2023 World Archery Oceania Championships to be held in Adelaide from April 1316 and also the Trans Tasman, a team event against New Zealand which precedes the

Aged just 15, Holly has been shooting arrows since she was seven years old, having initially learnt how to shoot at the Umina Beach PCYC She is no stranger to representative archery, having represented NSW twice before, as part of the state team for outdoor target and also indoor target archery – both times the

NSW Compound Bow team came first in Australia.

Holly has won countless medals and trophies and just recently was named the best all round under 16 Compound Bow Archer by the Archery Society of NSW. “I am so excited that I have been chosen to represent my country,” she said.

“I have worked so hard to achieve this.

“Representing NSW is a huge honour, so to be selected to wear Green and Gold is another level.

“But I’m not just excited to shoot arrows; I’ll also be meeting and competing with youth archers from other countries.

I have made great friends in this sport and to make friends from overseas is something else.”

With archery not being a wellfunded sport in Australia, competitors need to pay their way and Holly’s family has set up a Go Fund Me Page to help pay the costs of getting to Adelaide and for accommodation.

“My Dad is a single parent and is right behind me, extremely proud, and will do whatever it takes to help get me there, but it is a big expense to take on by

himself – so any donation will help.,” Holly said.

Holly is a member of Coast Archers at Erina.

Her Go Fund Me page can be found at https://gofund.me /09778e0c.

Source: Media release, Mar 5 Barry Parker, Youth Coordinator, Archery NSW

Local boy Max Mason gets a EURO NASCAR season debut in Europe NASCAR Central Coast student Max Mason 16, has been selected for a driver’s spot for the EuroNascar season 2023 after a drivers recruitment day held at EuroNASCAR’s test track in Fontenay le Comte, France in February.

The 16-year-old Coastie who grew up in Killcare began his formal motorsport career in Formula Ford. He’d previously raced go-carts when attending the Central Coast Sports School.

Last year Max competed in the EuroNASCAR Club Challenge in Racingfuel Motorsport’s number 58 Chevrolet Camaro at Zolder, Belgium making a stunning impression on race organisers.

The cars in the series house 5.7 litre naturally aspirated V8 engines with a power output of 450 hp or 340 kW.

Up and coming racecar driver Max Mason

Talking to media after trials Max said “The car’s super fast and super fun, it’s a great experience and it’s something new as I’m not used to this kind of vehicle, “I’ve had a little bit of experience in the EuroNASCAR car before, but this circuit is really fun and it suits the car very well.” said young Max.

Mason is a new breed of driver who uses simulated digital racing technology to enhance his driving skills.

He reportedly uses high-end simulators many hours a day to get used to a track before jumping into the super highpowered cars he now drives.

Max follows in the footsteps of the only other Australian

The Chevrolet Camaro supercar driven by Max Mason at the trials

driver to compete in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series after Josh Burdon, who finished second in the EuroNASCAR 2 championship in 2013.

The 2023 season begins on May 6th with the Valencia NASCAR Fest at Spain’s Circuit Ricardo Tormo.

The young upcoming racing star is currently negotiating

with various professional teams that are keen to sign him up. Though thanks to his outstanding track times his season selection is assured.

In his spare time, the young driver hosts a motorsport podcast called Path to the Podium (podcastpathtothepodium. com), featuring interviews of

drivers and engineers and organisers.

Local motorhead fans can watch the series as all the qualifying and race sessions for the 2023 season will be broadcast live on EuroNASCAR’s YouTube channel, Motorsport. tv and select TV channels around the world.

David Abrahams