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The Federal election is officially to be held this Saturday, May 3, but here on the Coast, it feels like the main event may have already happened.
Thousands have cast their ballots early at pre-polling stations across the region.
The Coast remains a political battleground, with the seat of Robertson, held by Labor’s Dr Gordon Reid, firmly in the spotlight.
announcements and surprise appearances.
But the story doesn’t end with the major parties.
If history is anything to go by, up to a third of Coast voters are likely to back independents or minor parties.
promises, the players, and what it all could mean for life on the Coast after the booths close.
Thanks must go to our dedicated local journalists who have been trawling the promises and commitments during the campaign.
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Whether it’s convenience, habit, or just wanting to avoid the Saturday sausage queue, early voting has become the new norm.
Which does beg the question; will there be too many democracy sausages and not enough democracy left to go around this weekend?
Both major parties have thrown their weight (and wallets) behind big promises: upgrades to roads, improved health services, expanded sporting facilities, support for domestic violence victims, and investments in youth programs.
It’s been a week of
There’s a growing appetite for alternatives – candidates who might not have the same budgets, but who offer something different from the party lines and well-rehearsed slogans.
Our election coverage on CCN’s Election Hub at coastcommunitynews.com.
au/election/ dives into the
Whatever the outcome, we hope Saturday brings a little clarity, fewer corflutes and perhaps, just perhaps, a calmer political climate ahead.
And yes, there will still be sausages a plenty.
David Abrahams, Managing Editor
Thousands of residents and visitors flocked to Anzac Day services all around the Central Coast on April 25.
Gosford RSL Sub-branch
President Greg Mawson said the Gosford dawn and morning services saw the biggest crowds in over a decade.
“The interesting part was the huge numbers of younger people attending both services
which augurs well for the future of Anzac Day celebrations as we move on,” he said.
Both services saw the Gosford Cenotaph reach maximum capacity.
“I was amazed when I called for any schools wanting to lay a wreath that every school in the area was represented and laid a wreath, almost covering the whole cenotaph,” Mawson said.
At Terrigal, numbers were also up on previous years, said Terrigal-Wamberal RSL Subbranch President Scott Warr.
“The dawn service commenced with a very moving tribute in song by Ron Sinclair to one of the soldiers killed in Afghanistan,” he said.
“The mother of the deceased veteran was present.
“We had nine surf boats from the Central Coast and Sydney
landing and delivering a wreath.
“We were blessed with weather, so the helicopter got up and did a great fly past and around the beach.
“At the conclusion of the dawn service a Gunfire Breakfast at the Terrigal SLSC was very well attended.”
Two major events over the past week have brought the Central Coast community together to honour the memory of Audrey Griffin, who was murdered on March 23, and to call for urgent action against violence towards women.
Audrey, 19, a former vicecaptain at Central Coast Sports College, was reported missing after a night out at the Gosford Hotel on March 23.
Her body was discovered the next day, partially submerged in Erina creek.
Initially treated as nonsuspicious, her death was later reclassified and 53-year-old Adrian Noel Torrens was charged with her murder, as well as with multiple unrelated domestic violence offences.
Corrective Services NSW staff found Torrens unresponsive in his cell at about 4.50pm on Thursday, April 24.
Paramedics were called, but despite efforts by both staff and
A rate rise of 4.3 per cent is on the cards after Central Coast Council adopted the rate rise to go out on public exhibition at its April 29 meeting.
Councillors did not mention the rate rise or the proposed increase in fees and charges when they adopted the draft operational plan and budget which will now go on public exhibition from this Thursday, May 1.
After hearing from the public, the councillors will then make a final decision in June. While the rate increases for next financial year were not mentioned, the plan to increase rates in 2030 was raised.
emergency responders, he could not be revived.
A remembrance vigil was held in Audrey’s honour at 5pm on Thursday, April 24, at Terrigal, with locals gathering at the waterfront in support of her family and to reflect on her life.
Friends, neighbours and local community groups came
together in quiet reflection, sharing memories and lighting candles in Audrey’s memory.
The vigil offered a deeply personal space for mourning and solidarity, giving those closest to Audrey a way to grieve and support one another.
On Sunday, April 27, hundreds marched in rainy weather through the Gosford city centre
in a louder, more public show of resistance to gender-based violence.
Organised by locals and supported by advocacy groups, the march attracted participants from across the Central Coast.
Carrying signs and chanting for change, the crowd made its way through the streets before gathering for speeches from
community leaders, activists and some who had known Audrey.
Speakers stressed the urgent need for systemic change and greater protections for women.
Local woman Bri Harvey, who is the local convener of a national campaign against violence, said: “Everyone showed up; they showed up in
Councillor Corinne Lamont asked her fellow councillors to reject the suite of documents which included the Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program, Operational Plan, Fees and Charges, and both the
Workforce and Asset Management Strategies.
Lamont said all the documents were built around Scenario Two in the long term financial plan (LTFP) which assumes Council will keep the temporary rate increase (known as a special rate variation or SRV) imposed for 10 years in 2021.
The 15 per cent SRV is supposed to drop off in 2030 but Council is planning to ask the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) to allow Council to keep it.
“Let’s not endorse plans that assume another SRV as inevitable,” Lamont said.
“Let’s send these back for a version that reflects full
exhaustive reform, not deferral.”
Lamont said councillors had not voted on a preferred scenario but most of them had campaigned on no further rate rises.
She said it also ran directly against Council’s Financial Sustainability Strategy, “which clearly states” that Council should reduce its reliance on SRVs to avoid long-term structural imbalances.
“It also assumes financial stability that, in reality, is being propped up by a future decision from IPART, one that hasn’t happened yet, and may not,” Lamont said.
“And here’s the issue we’re not talking about clearly
Tens of thousands of local Catholics are still mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21.
Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay Anthony Randazzo said Pope Francis was a faithful servant of the poor and protector of Creation, and will be remembered for his humility, mercy and parity.
In a post on social media the Bishop wrote that Pope Francis was a courageous leader, whose papacy will be remembered for its call to reform, to embrace mercy, and to build bridges of understanding.
“A champion of humility, simplicity was a hallmark of his papacy,” the post said.
“Well before his election to
the head of the Catholic Church, he was well-known for his simple lifestyle, living in a small apartment when he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires, cooking his own meals and taking public transportation.
“He also sought to open the Church’s arms wide to embrace people from all walks of life, particularly those who had historically felt neglected by it.”
The Central Coast Fraternity of St Joachim and St Anne also joined millions around the world, praying for the soul of 88 year old Pope.
“His life and papacy reflected the example and teachings of Jesus and Francis of Assisi - a non judgmental and inclusive love of all, especially the poor, the marginalised and all creation, a spokesperson said.
solidarity with the 24 women who have been killed so far this year [in Australia]”.
Co-organiser Lauren Gumbs welcomed those who have been personally affected by violence and those who simply want to see real change.
“Let’s stand up for those who no longer can, and make sure those in power hear us loud and clear,” she said.
The two events, while different in tone and scale, shared a common purpose: to honour Audrey Griffin’s life and to demand an end to violence against women.
Together, they underscored the Central Coast community’s grief, resilience and energy to drive social change.
People are being urged to support a petition calling for urgent domestic violence law reform in NSW started in Audrey’s memory.
To find the petition, search “Justice for Audrey’ at change. org
enough: we are not just facing a one-time funding gap, we are staring down the path of future structural deficits.
“That means, even if we balance the books in the short term, our cost base and service expectations will continue to outpace our income unless we make real changes.
“Scenario 2 delays that reckoning but it does not solve it.”
She asked if de-amalgamation needed to be “seriously revisited”.
“Our current service footprint, governance complexity, and financial stress raise legitimate questions about whether the amalgamated model is delivering value, or whether it
has locked us into a structure that is unsustainable for the long term, making us unfit for purpose, especially long-term purpose,” she said.
Lamont urged residents to speak up during the period of public exhibition.
“Please engage,” she said.
“These plans will shape your roads, your rates, and your services.
“Pay attention, ask questions, let Council and councillors know what you think, because what we’re really debating here is not just a budget, it’s your future cost of living.”
The budget should appear on public exhibition from May 1 at www.yourvoiceourcoast.com/
The Central Coast remained on high alert on April 30, with king tides overnight expected to exacerbate flooding issues experienced region-wide since April 26.
Days of heavy rains saw many areas of the Coast inundated, with road closures in place and escalating concerns over flooding around the Tuggerah Lakes.
State Emergency Services (SES) Local Commander for Gosford and Wyong Rolf Garda said around 200 calls had been received since the weekend, mostly involving leaking roofs and calls for sandbags.
“There is still a minor flood warning in place around Tuggerah Lakes and much concern over erosion issues at Wamberal and North Entrance beaches,” Garda said on April 30.
The Bureau of Meteorology said surf and swell conditions were expected to remain hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating and swimming until midnight on Thursday, May 1, with more flash flooding likely.
Passengers travelling from the Central Coast towards Newcastle Interchange were warned trains would terminate and start at Fassifern with a shuttle train service operating between Newcastle Interchange and Cardiff, stopping at all stations.
Check the latest railway line conditions on the Transport NSW website or by calling 131 500.
As erosion fears escalated, State Member for Terrigal and Shadow Minister for the Central Coast Adam Crouch called on the NSW Government to declare a State of Emergency for the Central Coast on April 30.
From page 1
“Had she waited even a few more seconds, this could be a very different news story.”
Chadwick said when she realised two people were caught in a strong rip – a young boy and a man further out, both clearly in distress – she quickly passed her dogs to a friend and ran to the shore.
“Bystanders were standing still in shock screaming; I didn’t think twice and entered the water fully clothed with my phone in my pocket,” she said.
“I had no choice but to grab a nearby stranger’s boogie board but decided to swim out without it to get there faster.
“I reached the boy first, who looked to be around nine years old.
“I made the quick call to save the boy first.
“I was able to guide him back toward the shore, where someone was waiting to take
A sandbag collection facility was set up at Sunrise Reserve in Geoffrey Rd, Chittaway Point, as residents scrambled to protect their homes.
Central Coast Council has been constantly monitoring the situation, opening The Entrance channel and having machinery in place to continue removing sand to enhance channel flow.
Residents living around Tuggerah Lakes are encouraged to continue to check how conditions might affect their property at hubs.la/Q03j_N0D0 Council has opened Terrigal Lagoon, with water levels expected to continue falling and continues to monitor all lagoon levels, with intervention to occur as required.
Meanwhile, commuters were thrown into chaos as trains on the Central Coast/Newcastle line were affected by flooding at Cockle Creek on April 28.
“It’s time that the Minns Labor Government stepped up and declares a state of emergency for our region and provides support to Central Coast Council,” Crouch said. “It’s been weeks and we have seen increased coastal erosion in our region and zero support from the Government.”
him in so I could turn around and swim back out for the man.
“By the time I got to him, he had been pulled further out and was unresponsive, facedown and briefly submerged.
“I managed to get him onto my shoulder and, after striking his upper back three times, he vomited water and began breathing again.
“With the help of another man on a kneeboard, we got him safely back to shore.
“Once on the sand, we placed him into the recovery position, where he vomited smaller amounts of water.”
Lifeguards rushed to assist once they were back on the beach, and paramedics quickly took over medical care.
A second man, thought to be another family member, who had briefly entered the water to help, also needed help after swallowing water and was placed into the recovery
position as a precaution, allowing him to cough up any water if needed.
“It was an awful situation and so sad to see the young boy scream for his father as he was swept away,” Chadwick said.
“Turning my back on the dad
was such a hard moment but getting back to him (in time) was rewarding.
“I’m incredibly thankful both people survived.
“I’m relieved I got to them when I did, and grateful for the team of people on the beach
who helped bring them safely to shore and continued to support until emergency services took over.”
The Sydney family members were holidaying on the Central Coast when the near tragedy occurred and have since been in touch with Chadwick.
“The father has thanked me and said we will catch up next month for a coffee where he wants to thank me properly,” she said.
“They are a lovely little family and I’m so glad they’re okay; the family would have been devastated if they lost their father and son.
“It’s very rewarding and feels good to have been raised by such a supportive family and one that is so strong in surf lifesaving.”
As for calls for her to be formally recognised for her bravery, Chadwick said it was “nice” the community was showing its support.
“This community cares so much about their community members, it’s such a good community to be part of,” she said.
A celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe) will be held at the Gosford cenotaph at 11am on Thursday, May 8.
Central Coast Town Crier Stephen Clarke will make a proclamation at the ceremony, which will be attended by representatives from the Gosford City Sub-branch of the
National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates, and Gosford RSL Sub-branch.
David Myers of the National Servicemen’s Association Reenactment Unit will attend as Guard Commander, along with rifleman Graham Felton, two nurses and a medic.
Similar celebrations will be held throughout Australia and around the world on May 8,
marking 80 years since victory in Europe was announced by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill at the end of WWII.
Pageant master Bruno Peek, who has successfully led many national commemorations including D-Day 80 and the late Queen Elizabeth’s golden, diamond and platinum jubilees, along with her 90th birthday, will spearhead the worldwide celebration from England.
“We, as a nation and alongside our allies, are committed to making this the largest celebration of the victory in Europe since the day it was announced 80 years ago,” he said.
“It’s a time to pay tribute to the many millions who sacrificed so much for the freedoms we all enjoy today.”
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About 30 members of Animal Liberation NSW and collaborating partner, the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds, rallied outside the Wyong office of Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris on Thursday, April 24.
The group is asking for immediate action from Harris, who is also the Member for Wyong, and Premier Chris Minns to end commercial greyhound racing in NSW.
Animal Liberation’s Regional Campaigns Manager Lisa Ryan said the peaceful protest delivered a clear message to Harris and Minns.
“The community demands an end to the inherent cruelty of commercial greyhound racing, an industry built on gambling revenue at the expense of dogs’ lives,” she said.
“Our campaign and our
steadfast commitment to protect greyhounds from this industry will not falter.
“We will relentlessly expose the ugly truth of this industry and hold the government accountable for its continued failure to protect these vulnerable animals from exploitation and harm.”
Ryan said the protest served to highlight the tragic reality faced by dogs in the industry, saying that already in NSW this year 15 young greyhounds had died (six on-track, nine offtrack) after serious racing incidents, with another 1,220 injured.
“The statistics are horrifying – week after week dogs are suffering catastrophic injuries or dying – purely so bets can be placed and the government can collect revenue,” she said.
“This state-sanctioned animal cruelty must stop.”
Ryan said concerns raised during the ongoing NSW parliamentary inquiry into greyhound racing, also known as ‘the Drake Inquiry’, were a key focus of the demonstration.
“The ongoing Drake Inquiry has already revealed a systemic failure,” she said.
“Despite receiving $30M in public funds supposedly for safety, official testimony confirms that no NSW track currently meets even the minimum standards.
“Where has that money gone?
“We may be up against powerful vested interests, but our strength lies in the ethical imperative to protect animals and the growing number of Australians who are sickened by this industry and demand change,” Ryan said.
More than 110 concerned residents gathered on Thursday, April 24, to protest a proposed Woolworths development which they say will pose a threat to the ecologically sensitive Kincumber Wetlands.
Woolworths is considering plans to construct a new supermarket on the site, which is owned by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC).
Among the crowd at the rally were elders from nearby residential villages, many of whom have enjoyed the tranquillity and biodiversity of the wetlands for decades.
“We walk here daily and to consider that it might be destroyed for another shopping centre is devastating,” one resident said.
Locals also expressed concerns over increased traffic congestion, an unnecessary commercial development, but, most critically, the threat to
endangered species that call the wetlands home.
Residents argue that a new Woolworths is not only redundant – with a Coles located just across the road –but that it could easily be built on an alternative, non-native site such as a disused or abandoned location.
A spokesperson said some of the species that have been recorded on the site include Bush Stone-Curlew, Osprey, Powerful Owl, Bar-tailed Godwit, Grey-headed Flyingfox, Eastern Curlew, Varied
Sittella, Little Lorikeet, and Barking Owl which are considered either vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered.
The vegetation on the site is Swamp Sclerophyll Forest, Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest and Coastal Saltmarsh which are all considered Endangered Ecological Communities, the spokesperson said.
The site also contains Mangroves Protected Marine Vegetation and is home to the critically endangered plant, Scrub Turpentine.
“Residents can’t understand why the Land Council or Woolworths would consider destroying such an environmentally important site,” the spokesperson said.
“The Kincumber Wetlands are not just a haven for native flora and fauna, they also play a crucial role in the health of the broader ecosystem.
“These wetlands act as a natural filtration system for runoff and are vital to the health of Brisbane Water, a significant estuarine waterway in the region.”
Narara Ecovillage will hold a Sustainable House Day event on May 4 and will open some of their lovely homes to visitors.
The popular Australia-wide event is organised by Renew and focuses on houses built using environmentally sustainable materials and incorporating exceptional energy efficiency.
Event co-ordinator Janet Ellis said everyone was welcome, including designers, architects and builders.
“If you’re curious about different types of buildings and how to build or renovate for energy efficiency, this is a great place to see seven of these homes in one place and to talk to owners, owner-builders and experts,” she said.
“This year hempcrete, earthship and natural build homes and a townhouse will be open, plus two homes that have been upgraded for increased energy efficiency –reducing energy bills and increasing wellbeing.”
There will also be two free talks by experts (registrations essential): 9.15am-11.30am, Retrofitting sustainably for energy efficiency and comfort
including a visit to retrofit Queenslander “Dorothy”; and 1.30pm-3.30pm, Setting up a Microgrid and Community Battery – challenges and benefits, including a visit to the Ecovillage’s community battery and microgrid.
For more information and to register go to https://events. humanitix.com/sustainablehouse-day-2025
One Aboriginal Elder advised that the totems for the area are the Black Swan and the Ibis.
“They are a part of this environment and if this land is developed flood mitigation will be a real issue,” he said.
Independent candidate for Robertson Lisa Bellamy said the land used to be Crown land and was given to DLALC under the Land Rights Act.
“But nobody thought it would mean the bulldozing of this land.,” she said.
“I totally understand self-
determination, but not at the expense of ecologically sensitive areas.”
Central Coast Greens party member, Kate Da Costa said residents should not have to argue that this wetland and others should be saved due to the endangered species.
“We do not have enough wetlands left on the Central Coast,” she said.
Sue Chidgey, who founded Save Central Coast Reserves in 2015 to save 25 local reserves from the then Gosford Council’s plans to rezone and sell-off the land for development, said the protest was about protecting what can’t be replaced.
“Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever,” she said.
The Save Kincumber Wetlands Facebook group has grown to more than 940 members in just over six weeks.
For more information and updates, visit the Save Kincumber Wetlands Facebook page.
With just a few days to go until Australia votes to determine the nation’s 48th Parliament, the polls continue to point to an ALP win.
The national Resolve and Morgan Polls both have the ALP in front 53-47 on a two-party preferred basis, while the latest Essential and DemosAU Polls both have the ALP leading 5248.
Unless they are missing something, the big question now, it would seem, is whether Labor can form a government in its own right, or whether they will need to negotiate a working arrangement with crossbenchers to establish a minority government.
We’ll come back to that in a moment, but first let’s reflect on what has happened since our last update.
Among many developments, three things stood out most to us.
Firstly, the debates.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has now squared off in four debates with Opposition leader Peter Dutton.
After appearing to gain the ascendency in the first two debates, in which the two leaders traded details of their respective ‘policies’ (we use the term lightly), the third debate got personal.
Albanese looked shaky when Dutton accused him of blatantly lying about the Coalition’s
The main candidates for the seat of Robertson were invited to speak to the community at the Wagstaffe Hall on Monday, April 28, but only The Greens’ Cheryl Wallace and Pauline Hanson’s One Nation (PHON) candidate, Matthew Lloyd, fronted the people.
record on Medicare and health spending.
“You couldn’t lie straight in bed, Prime Minister,” Dutton said.
“You can go to personal abuse, it’s a sign of desperation Peter,” Albanese responded.
AAP fact checks later showed Albanese’s claim that the former Coalition government had cut $80B from federal health spending to be a fabrication and our own fact checks (previously reported) show that bulk-billing rates have fallen significantly under the current ALP administration.
Both continued to talk up their suite of tax breaks, rebates and debt forgiveness.
Channel Nine moderator, Ally Langdon, probably summed it up best when she concluded: “I’m not sure that anyone at home is feeling that either of you are being fiscally responsible at the moment, and we’re really concerned about the level of debt we’re
going to be leaving our grandkids.”
Dutton was voted the winner, 2 to 1, by the panel.
The final debate drew out an unexpected focus over the Welcome to Country and, you got it, the price of eggs.
Dutton caught many people by surprise by giving his honest (personal) view that the Welcome to County was “overused” and that to do it at the start of every meeting or football game “cheapens its significance”.
Albanese dodged the question.
Any points for honesty Dutton gained, however, were quickly eroded in an ensuing quick-fire Q&A in which he said the price of a carton of eggs was about $4.20.
Albanese reckoned it was about $7.
Clearly, neither man does the shopping.
Albanese then faltered when asked to name three things that would become cheaper in a second term under the ALP. Answer? We’re still waiting. In the end, Albanese won over 50 per cent of the audience, Dutton 25 per cent and 25 per cent remained undecided.
The second thing to stand out was the record level of prepolling.
According to Nine News, of the 18 million people on the electoral role, a recordbreaking 2.4 million had cast
their ballots by Monday, April 28, reportedly 400,000 more than the same time in 2022.
This has been widely attributed to Easter and Anzac Day falling in the three weeks prior to election day, however it is often thought that a surge in pre-polling indicates more voters have strong, active views.
If so, it’s hard to see what may be driving this given the copycat approach of both major parties.
Fear over the growing costof-living crisis? A Trump factor perhaps? Or is it the nearcomplete absence of climate change in the debate, a topic that dominated at the last election.
In any case, the high level of pre-polling seems to have been largely anticipated by both major parties who finished articulating their main policies (again, we use the term lightly) over a week ago.
So, what has filled the silence since?
Well, that brings us to the third stand-out development –the attack on the TEALs.
Climate 200 founder Simon Holmes a Court appealed to TEAL supporters to dig deep to top up a $1M fighting fund to save four high-profile teal MPs – Monique Ryan (Kooyong), Zoe Daniel (Goldstein), Sophie Scamps (Mackellar) and Kate Chaney (Curtin) – who were being “outspent and outnumbered”.
Media reports have indicated several unidentified groups putting up billboards and posters and handing out disparaging flyers at pre-poll booths – some of these suggesting that TEAL is, in fact, just another shade of GREEN.
This begs the question of whether such material is helping or hindering TEAL candidates.
Recent Vote Compass data shows the majority of women under the age of 29 are identifying with the political left, but not necessarily with the ALP.
With The Greens backwatered by both major parties, we may well ponder if these GEN-Zs are looking at the emergence of strong TEAL women in politics and feeling inspired.
And just in case you’re wondering what happens if neither big party wins enough seats to form a majority
government, here’s how (we understand) it works.
Technically, the ALP is still in government and, as such, will have the first opportunity to present a case to the GovernorGeneral that it can continue to effectively govern with the support of a sufficient cohort of cross-benchers.
If it can’t, then the LNP coalition will have an opportunity to do the same; albeit if it wins fewer seats than the ALP, any such minority would likely be unstable and therefore very unlikely.
Any arrangement seems fraught however, in light of the vicious attacks on the TEALs of late.
So what if neither major party can convince the GovernorGeneral?
Well, then it gets messy.
The most likely scenario would be that we would have to have another election.
Another scenario, however unlikely, would be the formation of a ‘grand coalition’ between the ALP and the LNP (or either of the Liberal or National parties).
Let’s face it, stranger things have happened recently. We’ll all know soon enough.
Postscript: My iphone has been constantly dinging since our last update like the sound of a patriotic trumpet – can anybody help me with that?
Ross Barry
He acknowledged Pauline Hanson could be ‘polarising’ but said she had been consistent in her policy prescriptions.
Lloyd said that many of the major parties’ policies were in fact lifted from PHON, notably the removal of alcohol excise, a 50 per cent cut in fuel excise and providing better access to housing for youth, including the
Lloyd, a resident of Bateau Bay who has lived on the Coast for 30 years, has a background in manufacturing.
Pledges for specific spending on the Central Coast have been coming in thick and fast in recent weeks as the major parties compete for the seats of Robertson, Dobell and Shortland.
Here are the local pledges from the ALP and the LNP Labor has pledged: A new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in
ability to access their super for a home deposit.
A core focus of PHON however, according to Lloyd, is to address the spiralling level of public debt, which already posed an incredible burden on future generations.
Lloyd said he believed it was important to ensure taxpayers’ money was not being wasted.
This included abolishing the Department of Climate Change
and the National Indigenous Australians Agency.
With respect to housing, One Nation is committed to reducing the cost of new homes including a five-year GST moratorium on building materials used in new homes and a review of excessive government charges that it claims make up to 44% of the cost of new homes.
Not surprisingly, Lloyd was challenged over PHON’s position on climate change.
He argued that Australia could be considered “better than carbon neutral” because our natural forests absorb more carbon than we emit.
The most important initiative for the Central Coast, Lloyd said, was to ensure the provision of a local Maternity Ward.
Cheryl Wallace reiterated The Greens mantra, “if you want change, you need to vote for it”.
the Terrigal district to service surrounding communities; $10M to improve maternity services at Gosford and Wyong Hospitals; $115M to upgrade Terrigal Dr at Erina and Terrigal; delivery of the $93M Central Coast Roads Package; $1.8M to upgrade Ettalong Beach foreshore; $4.77M for new links on the Tuggerah Lakes loop at Tuggerawong and Canton Beach; upgrade of the
Medicare Mental Health Centre in Tuggerah to a full service and Headspace in Gosford upgrade to a Headspace Plus; $2.1M towards the construction of the Beaches Shared Pathway at Avoca Beach; $325,000 to improve irrigation and drainage at Slade Park and $35,000 to install new fencing at Halekulani Oval – both Budgewoi; more funding to the Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Charlestown
and Lake Haven to boost capacity; and $985,000 to upgrade Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium at Terrigal.
The Liberal/National Party Coalition has pledged: $544,000 to upgrade the Berkeley Vale Panthers’ home ground; $10M to expand and resurface Warnervale airport; $90,000 to upgrade Charmhaven base of The
Biker’s Hand; $112.5M to upgrade Terrigal Dr; $2.227M to Regional Youth Support Services; a $2M upgrade for Watanobbi Oval; a $1M upgrade for Don Small Oval at Tacoma; $450,000 towards construction of a clubhouse for Empire Bay Tennis and Community Club; $800,000 to revamp Salt Water Creek Reserve at Long Jetty; $1M for new fun feature at The Australian Reptile Park; $1.8M
She added that the two major parties were both beholden to large political donors.
Wallace advocated for a more proactive approach to tackling climate change – including stopping all new coal and gas developments.
She also advocated for the removal of negative gearing.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
to redevelop amenities at Hylton Moore Oval 7 at East Gosford; $1.2M to redevelop amenities at Erina Oval; and $500,000 for Patrick Croke Oval in Kincumber.
Both major parties have pledged: $20M to establish The Coast Women’s and Children’s Trauma Recovery Centre at East Gosford; and $15M for road upgrades at Empire Bay.
Lawrie McKinna
We recently asked people about their water and sewer service and learned that quality and reliability are important priorities.
Your feedback is now needed to guide the next steps in our water and sewer pricing journey. We’re holding a series of information sessions to ensure you have a say on how we balance future water and sewer service improvements with costs, reliability and service quality.
Your feedback will help shape Council’s submission to the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), who will set the prices for water and sewerage services that will come into effect from 1 July 2026. You can pop-in to one of our stalls across the Central Coast to have your say.
Council staff will be available for consultation at Westfield Tuggerah on 1 May from 1pm to 8pm, Bateau Bay Square on 3 May from 8am to 3pm, Deepwater Plaza Woy Woy on 6 May from 12pm to 5pm, and Lake Munmorah Shopping Centre on 8 May from noon to 6pm.
To learn more about our future water and sewer service options, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com
Mayor Lawrie McKinna centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/mayor
We are inviting local makers or creators to be part of our Creative Spaces 2025-26 program.
To submit your EOI by 26 May, search ‘EOI’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
The next Council meeting will be held at Wyong, 6.30pm 27 May 2025.
Search ‘council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Want to increase your tech skills on your own device? Come along to our four-week beginner course to learn how to stay connected and build technology confidence. Sessions are held throughout May at The Erina Centre and Lake Haven Library.
Book your place now, search ‘tech savvy seniors’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
To make decisions that genuinely reflect your needs, open, honest and ongoing dialogue between us and our community is essential.
At our 25 March Council meeting, our Community Engagement Strategy was adopted - reinforcing our commitment to strengthening communication and collaboration with the community.
To understand the commitments set out in the strategy, search ‘community engagement strategy’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com
Get ready to explore this year’s Harvest Festival program! Start planning how you will discover Central Coast’s spectacular hinterland and rural communities over the June long weekend. There’s over 35 event hubs and experiences on offer – for every taste and interest.
Don’t miss our Taste of Wyong event to try local cuisines and Dam Day Out at Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre.
To book ticketed events, visit lovecentralcoast.com/harvestfestival
Picnic Point new district-level playspace open!
Central Coast’s new district-level playspace at Picnic Point, The Entrance, is already proving popular with locals and visitors!
Officially opened on 15 April, the design of the project reflects a community-driven and inclusive approach. The playspace features swing sets, slides, a multi-level climbing structure, an obstacle course, a flying fox, a junior climbing unit, shade and is fully fenced.
To view photos and read more, search ‘playspace renewals 2024-25’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
The annual Little Tern breeding season at Karagi Point has seen a record breaking 228 fledglings recorded – the most ever recorded on the NSW coast.
Little Terns migrate from South-East Asia to Australia each year to breed and have historically chosen to nest at The Entrance.
Our annual program of work in collaboration with NSW Government agencies and community members, this endangered species continues to thrive!
To learn more about Little Terns, search ‘terning it on’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Free Pet Microchipping Day this Saturday!
Registering your pet is the best way to keep your pet safe.
Get your pet microchipped for free this Saturday 3 May from 8.30am2pm at Central Coast Animal Shelters in Charmhaven and Erina.
Just walk in – no appointment needed!
For more information, search ‘free pet microchipping’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
CCN invited all candidates to submit bios and pictures.
Below is a full list of candidates for each of the three electorates covering the Central Coast as listed by the Australian Electoral Commission, including all bios and pictures as provided.
Matt Llolyd – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation (no information supplied)
Cheryl Wallace - The Greens
After 45 years as a Registered Nurse, Wallace has real insight into the healthcare system’s challenges and the urgent need for reform to ensure equitable access for all Australians.
Since retiring and moving to the Coast 10 years ago, she now spends her time volunteering for Oz Harvest and is well known in her local area as the Director of Education at the Terrigal Surf Club.
Previously, she was a Rural Fire Service operational firefighter and for six years, a local Landcare co-ordinator.
“I will campaign to get dental and mental health into Medicare – in a country like ours, people shouldn’t have to choose between rent and their health,” she said.
Climate change is also high on her agenda.
“We have to transition to a clean renewable energy base,” she said.
“Pie in the sky nuclear plans are just a delaying tactic to benefit the fossil fuel industry and ignore the issue of managing radioactive waste.”
Lucy Wicks - Liberal Wicks says the one thing on
everyone’s mind is the cost-ofliving crisis.
“The Central Coast needs someone who will fight for real solutions; that’s why I’m stepping up again,” she said.
“I will tackle the cost-ofliving crisis by halving the fuel tax to bring petrol prices down by 25 cents per litre.
“We’ll take action on out-ofcontrol power prices with a balanced energy approach that ensures affordable, reliable and clean energy for homes and businesses.
“And we’ll support our local small businesses with a permanent $30,000 instant asset write-off to help them invest, grow and create jobs.”
Wicks said other priorities would include building enough homes to keep up with population growth and urgent investment in local infrastructure.
“We need better and safer roads - and I’m ready to fight for every dollar we deserve,” she said.
“This is my home; it’s where my partner and I are raising our children.
“I care deeply about our future — and I know we can do better.
“Together we can get the Coast and Australia back on track.”
Tom Lillicrap - Legalise Cannabis Australia (no information supplied)
Lisa Bellamy – Independent
Lisa Bellamy
A mother and grandmother, Bellamy’s background spans small business ownership, community advocacy and environmental conservation.
An accountant, she has managed Revenue Accounting at the University of Newcastle, currently serves as President of Kariong Progress Association, and volunteers with a wildlife rescue organisation.
She said she has rented publicly and privately on the Central Coast and owned a home as well as feeling the struggles of running a small business and raising children on her own.
She said a strong future for the Central Coast must balance economic growth with protecting the natural environment, community health, and food security.
“For too long, politicians have traded away our community’s future for quick profits that benefit a select few,” she said.
“We should be leading the way in responsible development—not allowing reckless expansion that destroys our natural surroundings and creates more problems than it solves.”
She said the growing issue of traffic congestion, loss of bushland and skyrocketing housing costs were all symptoms of a political system that prioritises corporate donors over everyday Australians.
Bellamy is committed to tackling the housing crisis and holding major parties accountable.
She said decision-makers should prioritise redeveloping underutilised spaces rather than bulldozing the country’s last wild places.
“A healthy community starts with a healthy environment,” she said.
“We need fresh air, clean water, and local food that isn’t genetically modified or controlled by big corporations.”
David Borg - Trumpet of Patriots (no information supplied)
Gordon Reid - Labor
Gordon Reid
Sitting Member and a local emergency department doctor, Reid said he had delivered a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Umina Beach, supported tax cuts for every taxpayer on the Central Coast, and made PBS medicines cheaper.
“There is more work to do, and I want to keep delivering for our community, including a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic to service the northern part of our electorate, provide $10Mto improve maternity services at our public hospitals, and make more visits to the GP free,” he said.
“A re-elected Federal Labor Government will also deliver more Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across Australia, new tax cuts, $150 energy bill relief, cap the price of PBS medicines at $25, more free TAFE places, wipe 20% from student debts, and keep the NBN in public ownership.
“I want to also continue to invest in local infrastructure with our $115M upgrade to Terrigal Dr and our $15M package to fix intersections in Empire Bay.
“Our investments also include our $93M Central Coast Roads Package which is rolling out across the region.
“We’ll also make improvements to Ettalong Beach foreshore, and deliver a shared pathway in Avoca Beach, to improve safety and accessibility.
“I need your support to continue to deliver for our community.
“Thanks for all your support these past three years, regardless of the outcome, it has been a pleasure working with you.”
Simon Cooper - The Greens
Simon Cooper
Cooper is committed to putting dental and mental health into Medicare, building more genuinely affordable homes and freezing rents for immediate relief, making education free from early childhood through to TAFE and university, and acting on climate change to reduce the costs that will come with extreme weather.
He has firsthand experience of the harsh realities of the rental market, including periods of homelessness, and uses his art practice to teach and support individuals who have encountered barriers to accessing further education.
He is fiercely passionate about justice, affordable housing, free healthcare and free education.
“We must stop logging native forests,” he said.
“The Forestry Corporation is
cutting down habitat trees in Ourimbah State Forest to sell for 20c a log; it’s criminal.
“In a country famous for sunshine, we should be doing more to expand publicly owned renewable energy generation and batteries, so that we can all have access to clean energy.
“We know that education costs are a strain on many families, and public schools are having to charge parents money for activities that would be free if public schools received adequate funding.
“We want everyone to have the benefits of free early childhood, school, TAFE or university education so that they can flourish and benefit society.”
Brendan Small - Liberal
Brendan Small
Small has a passion for the local community and says Labor has left the Central Coast behind.
“The Liberal team is committed to getting inflation under control; we can reduce the immense pressure on hardworking families by cutting out wasteful federal government spending,” he said.
“We’ll boost housing supply with a $5B investment in infrastructure to build up to 500,000 houses and cut demand by banning foreign investors from buying existing homes for two years.
“We will back small businesses by cutting red tape, providing tax relief, and creating a favourable environment for growth and job creation.
“I’m keen to get more funding for community groups that support our most vulnerable residents.
“I’ve already secured a promise from the Dutton Liberal Government to spend $90,000 upgrading the home of the Bikers Hand, a local charity, and I’d continue to advocate for further funds if I am elected.”
Martin Stevenson – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation (no information supplied)
Anthony Tawaf - Trumpet of
Patriots (no information supplied)
Tim Claydon - Legalise Cannabis Aust (no information supplied)
Patrick Murphy - Animal Justice Party
Murphy is a passionate advocate for animals, people and the environment.
He believes that real, lasting change comes through strong political representation.
“I’ll fight to end the barbaric live export trade, protect kangaroos, koalas and our unique wildlife, stop the destruction caused by coal seam gas, and push for urgent action on the climate emergency,” he said.
Murphy said he would put people and the planet before corporate profits.
He supports stronger whistleblower protections and an end to the influence of fossil fuel companies and taxdodging corporations over policy-making.
Murphy has a history of campaigning across a wide range of issues, not only those related to animals.
Isaac Chalik - Libertarian Party
With a background in economics and property finance he moved to the Central Coast with his wife
He is a solicitor and enjoys helping people.
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From page 1
Chalik believes Australia is being strangled by regulations and taxes and is concerned about the creep of socialist ideas into Australia.
“(Once) Labor and the Liberals had clearly different policies; Greens cared about the environment.
“Now both major parties are driven by woke nonsense and climate change fearmongering.
“The Greens seems to care more about foreign wars and the Teals are just Labor/Greens in disguise.
“Democracy only works if there is genuine political opposition and free speech.
“I ask for your vote in the sincere belief that we can do better for our children and grandchildren.”
Emma McBride - Labor McBride has served as the Member for Dobell since 2016.
Before that, she was the Chief Pharmacist of Wyong Hospital for almost a decade.
She brought the community together in 2017 to stop the State Liberal Government privatising Wyong Hospital.
She said she has delivered the free, walk-in Lake Haven
Medicare Urgent Care Clinic and Tuggerah Medicare Mental Health Centre as well as a tax cut for every taxpayer and energy bill relief for every household.
If re-elected, McBride said she will deliver an extra Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, more tax cuts and energy bill relief, cap the cost of PBS scripts at $25, and boost bulk billing so more people can see the GP for free.”
Geoffrey RobertsonLibertarian Party (no information supplied)
James Pheils – Independent (no information supplied)
Pat Conroy - Labor
Sitting Labor Member Pat Conroy is a father of two and the husband of a nurse.
“I understand that cost of living is the number one issue
facing our local community and like all parents, I want local families to have access to the services they need,” he said.
“That’s why I have always fought for better health and education.
“I saved the Hunter’s GP Access After Hours service, restoring the funding cut by the Liberals.
“I also delivered two new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Charlestown and Lake Haven.
“I was first elected to Parliament in 2013 and am now serving in Cabinet as Minister for Defence Industry
and Capability Delivery as well as the Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
“Having a strong voice for our local area at the Cabinet table ensures we receive our fair share.”
Barry Reed – Pauline Hanson’s One nation (no information supplied)
Pietro Di Girolamo - Family
First (no information supplied)
Emma King - Liberal
Emma King
King is a mum of two whose husband is a tradesman with a small business .
She worked for 15 years in mining and heavy industry.
“My focus is on delivering real cost of living relief, supporting small businesses and jobs, strengthening
Medicare, and backing a balanced energy mix to help bring prices down,” she said.
“I’ll be a strong, local advocate for Shortland, campaigning for increased investment for better facilities and enhanced infrastructure.
“I am running to deliver a better, brighter future for our kids.
“I want to be part of the Liberal Team in Canberra that will deliver real cost-of-living relief with a 50% fuel excise cut, lower energy costs and tax deductable mortgages for firsttime buyers.
Therese Doyle - The Greens
Therese Doyle
Doyle is an experienced educator and campaigner, who served as a Newcastle City councillor from 2012-2017
and at Concord Council in Sydney from 1995-2000.
“I will be a fierce advocate for Shortland residents’ rights to a decent standard of living and a healthy environment, along with urgently needed public services such as housing, healthcare and free public education, which should be available for everyone in a wealthy country like Australia,” she said.
She calls for a decisive shift in Federal Government priorities away from privileged private interests and towards urgently needed public services.
“Australians need equal access to free, high-quality public education, healthcare and housing,” Doyle said.
“As a Greens councillor for many years I worked on urban renewal with local community groups and council committees to uphold residents’ rights and needs over developers’ profits.
“I am ready to do so again in Shortland.”
Doyle said The Greens campaign for environmental safety was strongly linked with the need for international peace to support climate action.
The battle for Robertson continues to rage between the two major parties, with tit-for-tat announcements on huge commitments being a feature of the 2025 Federal election campaign.
This week, both the ALP and the LNP pledged $20M to establish a new trauma recovery centre at East Gosford if elected.
The Coast Women’s and Children’s Trauma Recovery Centre will be a new frontline domestic, family and sexual violence service which will help up to 500 women and children to recover from violence and abuse and provide much needed crisis and transitional accommodation.
The community-led initiative will offer a wraparound, trauma-sensitive approach to support recovery from domestic, family and sexual violence trauma – with a focus on working with children to help break the cycle of violence.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese popped into the Central Coast on Monday, April 28, to make the announcement.
“We must end the scourge of violence against women,” he said.
“We know we have a great deal more work to do and we
cannot be satisfied until the violence stops.
“Investing in centres like this is crucial, so women know they have a safe place to go.
“This builds on what we’re already delivering – more than $4B in our National Plan, 33 new shelters for women and children, bringing together states and territories, as well new approaches to target perpetrators and early intervention to stop violence.”
Minister for Social Services
Amanda Rishworth said if a woman knew she had a safe place to go and take her children, she was more likely to take the steps to leave a violent relationship.
Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said providing a safe roof over the heads of women and children fleeing domestic violence was “absolutely vital, in what is one of the most difficult moments of their lives”.
“This will provide wraparound services – which is why we’re committed to this investment on the Central Coast,” he said.
Not to be outdone, the LNP announced that a Dutton Coalition Government would also commit $20M for the centre.
Opposition Leader Peter
Dutton said the announcement highlighted his personal commitment to address family and domestic violence in Australia.
“As a former police officer who attended numerous domestic violence call-outs, I know the trauma and lifelong impacts that can occur as a result of these horrific crimes,” he said.
“A government I lead will be focussed on delivering real change so that families, women and children are safer and we work toward reducing the impact of family and domestic violence.”
Dutton said the centre would
mirror successful models in Sydney and Wollongong and would provide one and twobedroom accommodation options to support women and children leaving a traumatic situation.
The centre will be developed by Pacific Link Housing, in partnership with the Central Coast Women’s Health Centre.
Pacific Link Housing Group CEO Ian Lynch said such a project should not be needed, because domestic and family violence should not exist in this country.
“However, the alarming statistics demand an immediate and drastic response,” he said.
“While this centre addresses the critical need for posttrauma care, we remain hopeful that there will also be funding announcements of greater proportions for prevention and education efforts in the future.
“Community housing providers are uniquely equipped to bring together possibilities that benefit local communities
“Pacific Link Housing is incredibly proud to be doing just that with the Central Coast Women’s and Children’s Trauma Recovery Centre in partnership with the Central Coast Community Women’s Health Centre.”
Central Coast Community Women’s Health Centre CEO Sara Foster said domestic violence on the Central Coast is a whole-of-community crisis that can no longer be ignored.
“Our local services are at breaking point and we know that women and children in our community are not receiving the critical wrap-around supports that are essential to breaking these cycles of violence and assisting in their long-term healing and recovery,” she said.
“Funding for a trauma recovery centre is a win for the Coast but makes it more important than ever for investment in specialist DV service providers to adequately support and nurture the women and children accessing these services.
“This funding is the result of ongoing advocacy from multiple organisations and as a sector we are strongest when we work together on behalf of women and children everywhere.
“By investing in the safety, health and healing of women and their children, we address the impacts of trauma and work toward breaking pervasive cycles of violence and abuse.”
Ocean lovers are invited to attend the inaugural Love the Ocean Whale welcome event at North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club on Sunday, May 4, from 10am-1pm.
Friends of Kurrawyba spokesperson Izabela Sajdok said the free event was a way to celebrate the approach of the whales’ winter northern migration.
“It’s an opportunity for everyone who loves the ocean to come along, meet likeminded people and hear some great speakers,” she said.
“Our guest speakers will include Ronny Ling – well known for his love of and knowledge of the humpback whales migrating along the east coast in record numbers.”
Ling, who is Marine Mammal Specialist for Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast, said a few whales had already been showing themselves off our coastline with many more to be sighted in coming weeks.
“The northern migration starts when the whales start
heading north from the Summer feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean in February,” he said.
“They are heading north to breed and give birth, with the total migration being about 10,000km.
“On the Central Coast we get to see these amazing creatures, heading north, from around May to August.
“They often travel close to shore and are wonderful to watch from some of our great local vantage points.”
Ling said the best whale watching spots were Bouddi boardwalk at Putty Beach, Captain Cook Lookout at Copacabana, The Skillion at Terrigal Haven, Wyrrabalong National Park lookout at Forresters Beach, Crackneck Lookout at Bateau Bay, Soldiers Beach carpark at Norah Head, Norah Head Lighthouse and Wybung Head in Munmorah State Conservation Area.
“For those who are more adventurous and wanting the
chance of a more up-close and personal experience, Terrigal Ocean Tours will start their whale watch cruises from Terrigal Haven on May 15,” he said.
“Being the local whale tour operators, they offer professional guides with local knowledge.
“The tours operate during both the northern and southern migration and are a great way to view these incredible animals.
Significant vandalism has destroyed public toilets in Terry Oval at Springfield and the community is being called upon to help apprehend the vandals by reporting any witnessed antisocial behaviour or vandalism to police or Crime Stoppers.
The senseless vandalism occurred during the school
holiday period and has forced the full closure of the amenities, including the disabled toilets.
The vandalism included smashing all toilet bowls with large rocks, ripping sinks off the wall and smashing plumbing.
Central Coast Council’s Facebook page said mindless attacks such as these cost ratepayers money, Council
staff time and disrupt the availability of these facilities for public and visitors on the Coast.
“The cost of repairing these will be approximately $10,000, with repair works commencing shortly, and hopefully completed by mid-May” the Facebook post said.
Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers.
Any crimes in progress should be reported immediately by phoning 000 (triple zero).
Community members can also report to Council damage to public toilets, sports facilities, community recreation spaces and facilities by calling customer service on 4309 7900, or via our online customer service centre.
Tuggerah Lakes Police are seeking information relating to the current whereabouts of Scott Burrell, who is wanted on an arrest warrant.
with information about
1800 333
The 39-year-old could be in the Wyong area and police are strongly suggesting that he present to the nearest police station to have the warrant promptly dealt with.
Police are urging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au
“Around early September, we are fortunate to get mother whales bringing their new calves close to shore on their way back south.
“This is a wonderful time watching little whales learning from their mothers and often putting on a quite visual show.
“It’s time to dust off your binoculars and get prepared to enjoy the greatest show on Earth.
“If you see entangled, injured or distressed whales, dolphins,
seals or other marine wildlife, please call Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast straight away on 0478 439 965.”
Also speaking at the welcome day will be Ali Beikzadeh, well known for his environmental activism including the need to permanently remove shark nets from our beaches.
“Sarah Han-de-Beaux will also join us to share stories about her wonderful underwater adventures, photography and activism,” Sajdok said.
“We will also have an array of community groups participating with market and information stalls about everything related to loving the ocean from seabird and turtle rescue, through to plastic pollution and everything in between.”
There will also be a coffee cart, face painting and loads of fun for everyone available on the day.
Follow Friends of Kurrawyba on Facebook or check their website for more information: www.friendsofkurrawyba.com
A woman was critically injured in a crash along Budgewoi Rd at about 6.45pm on Friday, April 18.
The 53-year-old male driver of one vehicle and his two passengers, a 47-year-old man and the critically injured woman, in her 50s, were
treated at the scene before being taken to hospital.
A 64-year-old woman who was the driver of the second vehicle was also taken to hospital.
Anyone with information or footage should contact Crime Stoppers.
Tuggerah Lakes Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage, in relation to a serious assault on Dudley St, Gorokan, in February.
An elderly man was assaulted on the corner of Dudley St and Robson Ave by another male who fled the scene at about
7.10am on Saturday, February 22.
The offender is described as a male Caucasian aged in his 40s, of medium build, with short brown curly hair, and he was in the company of an unknown female.
Anyone with information should contact Wyong police on 4356 6099 or Crime Stoppers.
Three teenagers have been charged following a police pursuit of a stolen vehicle from the Central Coast and across Sydney’s northwest.
Officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command responded to reports of a vehicle driving at excessive speed along the M1 Motorway at Tuggerah at about 8am on Wednesday, April 16.
Police eventually located the vehicle abandoned in Gollan Ave, Oatlands.
Three boys, two aged 15 and one aged 16, were arrested in a shed on Charles St, Oatlands, and taken to Parramatta Police Station.
They have all been charged with various offences and refused bail until their appearance before a children’s court.
April 28, 2025
The LNP candidate for the seat of Robertson, Lucy Wicks has pleaded to her constituents for their trust.
When last elected most of us would recall that Lucy was a devoted, loyal member of the Morrison Government.
(It was) a government that became so unpopular it was dumped by the voters of Australia.
At a meet-the-constituents meeting in Copacabana prior to the last election I asked Lucy Wicks if she was sorry or would like to apologise for any of the policies or the performance of the Morrison Government.
No apology and no sorrow was forthcoming.
Not once did Lucy publicly speak out or criticise a Morrison Government policy or procedure on behalf of the constituents of Robertson.
Many of them disadvantaged many of our Central Coast residents.
Lucy does not speak for Robertson citizens.
If Peter Dutton is elected and Lucy was to become part of the government, we could anticipate more of the same ‘yes sir’ responses.
Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum
Lucy Wicks did not earn our trust last time.
She does not deserve our trust this time.
Her volunteer base does not demonstrate anything better by littering our community with corflutes in many places where they are not meant to be displayed.
Lucy Wicks, the LNP candidate for Robertson does not deserve our support.
Please vote for a better candidate.
Email, Apr 25
Brian Sawyer, Copacabana
Remember a vote for Dr Gordon Reid (Robertson) is a vote for Anthony Albanese; is a vote for Labor; is a vote for The Greens.
We cannot risk a Labor/ Greens government. Vote them last.
The good ol’ Ozzie is not safe – thanks to the most expensive
Voice (referendum) we are now divided.
Not one under one flag. Our wonderful history is being cancelled.
We now have the ‘oppressed’, the ‘victim’ and the ‘entitled’.
The Greens even reject our flag.
Our babies are not safe –abortion.
The elderly are not safe –easy access assisted suicide.
Our children are not safe –radical gender ideology taught in schools, gender transitioning of our kids (without parental consent), drag queen story time.
Our women are not safe –men in women’s sport and personal spaces.
Our economy is not safe –overspending and broken promises.
Our environment is not safe – net zero climate alarmism killing our energy capacity and our forests and farmland (with no real effect on the world’s emissions).
Our free speech is not safe –
attempting a mis/ disinformation Bill, appointing an e-safety commissioner with power to censor social media.
Our faith is not safe –cancellation of SRE (special religious education), chaplains, scripture deemed ‘hate speech’, Christian schools forced to conform to radical gender culture.
Our safety is not safe – weak stance against riots, crime, antisemitism.
Our money is not safe –millions of taxpayer dollars given to radical abortion lobbyists and LGBTIQ activist groups.
Our standard of living is not safe – power bills up, cost of living up, housing crisis up, government spending up by $315B in three Budgets, including hiring 36,000 more public servants.
Our borders are not safe –nothing said to China about the shots fired or the circumnavigation of our country.
Email, Apr 22
Linda
Judging by the number of print ads in our local
papers of late, the Liberals seem to be outspending Labor three to one in the campaign to win the seat of Robertson.
But repeating statements without factual evidence doesn’t make a playground taunt true, no matter how often you say it.
Mr Dutton’s tactic of continually sledging Mr Albanese as ‘weak’ on a variety of issues doesn’t mean the Prime Minister is.
To my way of thinking Mr Albanese is simply more careful in his responses to domestic and international developments (than) Mr Dutton (seems) to be.
For example, there are many situations where the Prime Minister and his government cannot openly respond to ‘Great Power’ provocations in our area of the world because to do so may reveal what the government and the Australian Defence Forces already know and to which they are already quietly reacting.
Similarly, given the immigration deficit Australia was suffering from as we emerged from the Covid epidemic (when Mr Dutton’s party was still in power remember) and the lead times required to manage migration
adjustments, these inflow fluctuations can’t easily be made to fit within an election cycle.
They can’t be turned off and on at will without significant disruption to our economy.
Who we elect to govern us on May 3 is a serious business and our votes need to be cast in a considered light, not on a whim. Our voting decisions need to be evidence based.
The current Federal Government is to be commended for its measured approach to the provision of economic relief, wherever it can, to people suffering most from the cost of living crisis.
But it can’t be held to account for the rise in international oil prices which has been the main source of our inflation over the past three years.
Mr Albanese’s Government is also to be commended for the significant repair of Australia’s relationship with our Pacific neighbours.
But it can’t be held to account for the impacts in Australia of recent American government decisions.
Mr Dutton’s political ally in the White House will be responsible for those.
I would like to draw to her attention several untruths in the letter from Lucy Wicks to Robertson residents.
The letter says inflation has been consistently higher than comparable economies (during the current Labor term of office).
This is false.
Official data shows inflation has been routinely higher than Australia in several advanced economies since May 2022.
In Australia, rising grocery and insurance costs are driven by factors like global supply chain disruptions, increased raw material costs, higher energy and fuel prices, and increased labour costs, all impacting production, freight, and distribution.
Global events and geopolitical tensions have disrupted supply chains, leading to shortages and higher costs for raw materials and transportation.
The cost of ingredients, packaging, and other inputs has increased, impacting the final price of groceries.
Increased energy and fuel prices contribute to higher transportation and production costs, which are passed on to consumers.
Rising wages and labour costs for supermarket employees and those involved in the food supply chain contribute to higher grocery prices.
Extreme weather events, such as droughts or floods, can negatively impact crop yields and increase food prices.
Some reports suggest that while grocery prices have risen sharply, major supermarket
chains have also increased their profit margins.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has conducted inquiries into the supermarket sector to investigate pricing practices and the impact on consumers.
Higher claims costs due to natural disasters, such as floods and bushfires, have pushed up insurance premiums.
General inflation, including rising costs for repairs and materials, contributes to higher insurance premiums.
Competition among insurance providers and the overall economic climate can also influence premium rates.
Higher interest rates can increase the cost of borrowing for insurers, which can lead to higher premiums.
The peak in Australian inflation, which reached 7.8%
in December 2022, was driven by a combination of factors, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, post-pandemic stimulus effects initiated by the Liberal Government and heightened demand due to the easing of restrictions.
Specific contributors included supply chain disruptions, rising corporate profits and increased demand for goods and services after lockdowns.
Additionally, high energy and food prices, along with the accumulation of household savings during the pandemic, played a significant role.
The profits made by large corporations during this time are huge.
And don’t get me started on housing affordability.
We have watched changes to taxation arrangements introduced by the Howard Government move housing as
shelter to housing as wealth generation.
Then, after introducing the Capital Gains Tax Discount (a discount on the tax wealthy people pay on the wealth their investments have generated) the Howard Government pushed demand and prices further by introducing the First Home Owners Scheme and overseeing a decrease in Commonwealth funding to the supply of social, subsidised, affordable, secure, rental housing for low income earners.
The Liberals aim to reduce inflation by cutting services.
Their nuclear energy plan will not provide cheaper energy. It will rely on continuing to support the fossil fuel industry and the mine owners.
The Liberals do not have a good record on quality affordable healthcare, having
frozen the Medicare Rebate for many years, forcing GP clinics into mixed billing and overseeing a reduction in the number of students studying to be GPs.
Is it that the Liberal Party can only use misinformation to get people to vote for them?
Email, Apr 14
I’d like to thank the staff at Gosford Hospital for looking after me when I fell and broke my left wrist the other day.
Despite (them) being shortstaffed I was still well cared for. The hospital food was good too!
As the Words on the Waves Writers Festival approaches, the Ripples short story competition for the budding writers and dreamers of the Central Coast is now open for the second year.
Students in primary and high school are encouraged to submit a short story, make
some waves and go into the running to win prizes for both themselves and their submitting adult.
Celebrating the fifth anniversary of the festival’s Ripples Schools Program, which is geared towards fostering literacy for the next generation of readers and writers on the Central Coast,
this year’s competition theme is centred on wood, the traditional five-year anniversary gift.
The theme – Into the Woods – represents stepping into the unknown, perhaps the dangerous or the exciting. What experience will send young imaginations soaring?
Kate Englefield of Let’s Dance Central Coast has introduced a new community dance class to Kincumber.
In a world where loneliness and disconnection are quietly on the rise, Englefield is stepping up to bring joy, movement and connection … with a soundtrack.
The new weekly dance class launched on Tuesday, April 29, at the Kincumber School of Arts.
The one-hour class, to be held from 10am every Tuesday, will offer a low-impact, all-inclusive dance session set to songs from the 60s to now.
Englefield said the class was thoughtfully designed with older adults and retirees in mind, though it’s open to anyone who wants to move, connect, and enjoy an hour of uplifting music and movement, no matter their age, experience or ability.
“Community isn’t just something we have to build from scratch,” she said.
“It’s something that already lives inside of us and we just need places to remember how to find it again.
“I created Let’s Dance to be one of those places.”
Englefield has been dancing since the age of three, training professionally in London before spending more than 20 years performing on stage and screen.
Now based on the Central Coast, and with two small children of her own, she’s turned her passion for creativity into a tool for connection and wellbeing.
“There’s so much pressure in our society to be productive, competitive and perfect,” she said.
“But that’s not what this is about.
“This is about joy.
“It’s about moving your body in whatever way feels good, having a laugh, and sharing
space with people who are just happy to be there with you.”
The class is ideal for older participants, or anyone looking to bring more movement into their life in a fun and lowpressure environment.
Each session is $15, or $50 for a four-class pass.
No experience is required, no bookings are necessary, and all you need is comfortable clothing, a water bottle, and a willingness to have fun.
Join the low-impact dance class from 10am-11am each Tuesday in the Kincumber School of Arts Hall.
For new details email letsdancecentralcoast@gmail. com or see the Let’s Dance Central Coast Facebook page.
The inaugural primary school winner last year was Coralie Allen.
“Winning the writers’ festival short story competition felt great,” she said.
“Not only was it confirmation that other people liked what I had written, but it was also a great opportunity for me to
outside of family and friends, and be given tips and feedback about my writing.
“It opened new doors into what my future could be like; will I be a writer? a poet? a director?
“The Ripples Short Story Competition made me step outside my comfort zone and
matter to people other than just me.”
Find out more information about submitting a story and the prizes on offer at wordsonthewaves.com.au/ ripples-short-storycompetition Entries close on May 9.
This Sunday, May 4, the Central Coast’s iconic grassroots arts event Brackets & Jam kicks off a vibrant new chapter with a monthly residency at the Fun Haus Factory in Gosford.
Set to happen on the first Sunday of every month, it promises to be a lively afternoon filled with live performances, creativity, and connection.
Grab a delicious burger, sip on
Sink or Swim returns to the Link & Pin at Woy Woy on Thursday night, May 1, with a top lineup of comedians.
Ruven Govender is a South African Indian raised in New Zealand.
He has performed around the world and is a hit at festivals such as Edinburgh Fringe, Perth Fringe, Sydney Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
He has performed as part of TedX and featured on multiple Netflix series.
a bevy, and soak up an eclectic mix of music, rhythms, storytelling, and vibrant performances — all set in the warm, welcoming space of the Fun Haus Factory.
For more than 25 years, Brackets & Jam Central Coast has been a beating heart of the region’s creative scene, celebrating local talent and the power of expression.
From live music and drum jams to poetry, dance, comedy, and open mic sessions,
Brackets & Jam has nurtured generations of artists and brought people together through the arts.
Now, that legendary spirit is finding a new home in Gosford.
Whether you’re an artist looking to road-test new work, a storyteller ready to share your voice, or someone who simply loves good vibes and great company, Brackets & Jam Sunday Sessions at the Fun Haus Factory will be for you.
He is also the world’s only fully professional comedianstuntman and has three black belts.
Also on the bill will be Marty Bright, whose up-beat brand of physical and observational hybrid comedy has become popular across Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, the USA and Canada.
He has performed at some of the top clubs including Sydney’s Comedy Store, LA’s Comedy Store, Broadway Comedy Club (NYC) , Montreal’s Comedy Works and The Classic (NZ).
He has also been part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Sydney Comedy Festival, where he was hand-picked for the roadshow showcase tour, Fresh program and Breakout program.
MC for the evening will be Evan Ferguson, who started Sink or Swim in 2023 after relocating to the Central Coast.
The night will kick off at 7pm on Thursday, May 1, at the Link and Pin.
Tickets are just $10.
You are invited to a special eventHear Olympic and World High Jump Champion
are
Nicola Olyslagers’ story and be inspired!
You are invited to a special eventHear Olympic and World High Jump Champion Nicola Olyslagers’ story and be inspired!
You are invited to a special eventHear Olympic and World High Jump Champion Nicola Olyslagers’ story and be inspired!
Join Living Waters Hope Central Church to hear Nicola Olyslagers share her story about what it’s like to be on the world athletic stage.
Join Living Waters Hope Central Church to hear Nicola Olyslagers share her story about what it’s like to be on the world athletic stage.
Join Living Waters Hope Central Church to hear Nicola Olyslagers share her story about what it’s like to be on the world athletic stage.
She had a dream from 8 years of age to become an Olympian and be the first woman in Australian history to jump over 2 metres. Since then, Nicola has surpassed those dreams, becoming a global medallist on every major stage, and innovator of the high jump game through her journaling
She had a dream from 8 years of age to become an Olympian and be the first woman in Australian history to jump over 2 metres. Since then, Nicola has surpassed those dreams, becoming a global medallist on every major stage, and innovator of the high jump game through her journaling
She had a dream from 8 years of age to become an Olympian and be the first woman in Australian history to jump over 2 metres. Since then, Nicola has surpassed those dreams, becoming a global medallist on every major stage, and innovator of the high jump game through her journaling
Kick back with friends, enjoy delicious eats and a few cheeky drinks, and immerse yourself in an afternoon where creativity thrives, and community comes alive.
The magic starts at 1pm this Sunday, May 4, at the Fun Haus Factory, Gosford, and continues every first Sunday of the month. Online bookings funhaus factory.org.au/whats-on/ brackets/2025-05-04/
Nicola’s walk with Jesus in her approach to sport is not only engaging, but also transformative. Her life story and key lessons learned through her humble progression will inspire you to think outside the box. They will highlight current weaknesses as opportunities for growth and breakthrough
Nicola’s walk with Jesus in her approach to sport is not only engaging, but also transformative. Her life story and key lessons learned through her humble progression will inspire you to think outside the box. They will highlight current weaknesses as opportunities for growth and breakthrough
Nicola’s walk with Jesus in her approach to sport is not only engaging, but also transformative. Her life story and key lessons learned through her humble progression will inspire you to think outside the box. They will highlight current weaknesses as opportunities for growth and breakthrough
You will also hear about Everlasting Crowns, Nicola’s vision to equip champions, elevate character and empower communities through the love of Jesus
You will also hear about Everlasting Crowns, Nicola’s vision to equip champions, elevate character and empower communities through the love of Jesus
You will also hear about Everlasting Crowns, Nicola’s vision to equip champions, elevate character and empower communities through the love of Jesus
This is an event not to be missed. And - just like salvation - it is free.
This is an event not to be missed. And - just like salvation - it is free.
This is an event not to be missed. And - just like salvation - it is free.
Waters Hope Central
St Joseph’s Spirituality Centre at Kincumber South will hold a Biggest Morning Tea in support of Cancer Council from 10.30am on Thursday, May 22. All welcome.
Older Women’s Network
Deepwater will hold an Autumn/Winter fashion parade at Ettalong 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre, Broken Bay Rd, Ettalong, from 1.30-4pm on Saturday, May 17.
To be held in conjunction with Sarongs Ladies Fashion the event will include a Prosecco or non-alcoholic beverage on arrival and afternoon tea. There will be a performance by the Madeline Stephenson Tap Dance Troupe and music by noted local musician, Lony Edge. All money raised will support food pantries at Mary Mac’s Place, Woy Woy Community Food Pantry and Community SOS, the Meals-on-Wheels 365 Club, Allawah House and the Ettalong+50 Leisure and Learning Centre.
Bookings are essential; call 0417 205 377.
An Evening Without Kate Bush – a dedication to one of the most influential voices in pop music – will play at The Art House, Wyong, on May 8.
Performed by multi-awardwinning performer SarahLouise Young, the show includes all the quirky costumes, choreography and phenomenal vocals audiences have come to expect of Kate Bush, as well as some hilarious and prompt improvisation work.
The real Kate Bush might not be there, but this show is the
next best thing to seeing her live, as she no longer tours.
This production has been extensively researched and is fully supported by Kate Bush herself.
Sarah-Louise Young is an admirer of Bush and her work and the wonderful eccentricities that made her famous.
She leads a wonderful cabaret adventure.
An Evening Without Kate Bush will play The Art House at 8pm on Thursday, May 8.
Book at www. thearthousewyong.com.au
Coastal a Cappella will present Voices in Harmony at 2pm on Sunday, May 4, at the Erina Centre, Erina Fair.
The event will feature Coastal a Cappella, Umina Beach Public School Choir, Treble Maker and Rise Quartets.
Coastal a Cappella will be representing the Central Coast in the Sweet Adelines Australian
annual competition in Hobart in May.
It is currently ranked in fifth place in Australia, attaining the ranking in Fremantle in 2024. There are 30 choruses in Australia and most of these choruses will be heading to Hobart.
Coastal a Cappella has been in existence for 33 years and currently has 40 members.
Events co-ordinator Jennie Harrison said their aim was to pursue musical excellence through inspirational harmony, enriching the lives of members, audiences and the wider community.
“We regularly perform at Central Coast Council citizenship ceremonies, Camp Breakaway, Mingara Recreation Club, corporate and private functions,” she said.
WAR MEDALS& MILITARI A WANTED
CRICKET + FOOTBALL
ALL MEDALS & MILITARY ITEMS WANTED FOR PRESERVATION & RESEARCH BY PRIVATE & PUBLIC MUSEUMS & COLLECTIONS
DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL ($500+ BRITISH) ($1000+ AUSTRALIAN)
MILITARY MEDAL FOR BRAVERY-MM ($300+ BRITISH) ($500+ AUSTRALIAN)
WW1 MEDALS $50+ each medal, WW2
$20+ each medal AUST. DEATH
PLAQUE WW1 $100+ each, BOER War STH AFRICA 1899-1902 $100+ EGYPT, CHINA, KOREA, VIETNAM, LONG SERVICE, POLICE + FIRE MEDALS PHOTOS, UNIFORMS, BADGES, ALL ITEMS RELATING TO AUST. LIGHT HORSE, CAMEL CORPS, AUST. FLYING CORPS & WW1 NURSES.
AGRICULTURE + SPORTING MEDALS BEFORE 1930, TROPHIES
VINTAGE WATCHES (before 1980)
OLD POCKET WATCHES & WATCH CHAINS VINTAGE WRISTWATCHES ANY CONDITION
GENTS OLD OMEGA $100+ needed for Parts ROLEX, BREITLING, LONGINES, PATEK, JAEGER, DIVERS,
WATCHMAKERS PARTS & TOOLS, OLD STOCK & REPAIRS
UNION BADGES
ARMY BADGES
BUTTON DAY BADGES
Opal Specimens Loose + MOUNTED STONES RINGS, BROOCHES Bangles
COINS& BANK NOTES WANTED
1966 ROUND 50 pieces $10+each
1925 & 1946 AUST PENNIES $20+each
1923 AUST HALF PENNY $500+
$200 GOLD COINS $700+
Gold Sovereigns $500+, Half Sovereigns $250+each PRE DECIMAL SILVER COINS - FLORINS, SHILLINGS, SIX PENCE, ETC. PROOF SETS + UNCIRCULATED DATE SETS
AUSTRALIAN PRE DECIMAL BANKNOTES & PAPER
MONEY. WORLD BANKNOTES AUSTRALIAN BANKNOTES WITH STAR OR ASTERIX AS LAST NUMBER $100+ INTERNMENT CAMP COINS & BANK NOTES
VINTAGE JEWELLERY
MARCASITE AND COSTUME JEWELLERY VINTAGE RINGS, BROOCHES, ETC. JEWELLERS PARTS AND OLD STOCK FOR REPAIRS
POSTCARDS & CIGARETTE CARDS BEFORE 1930
CHINESE & RUSSIAN SILVER, ESPECIALLY BOXES AND ENAMEL ITEMS.
OLD FOUNTAIN PENS WANTED
ALL GOLD JEWELLERY PURCHASED
DIGGERS THE ENTRANCE
ADMIRAL MOTOR INN - ROSEBUD
315 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty (Norfolk Room)
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MONDAY 24TH, TUESDAY 25TH & WEDNESDAY 26TH MARCH
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Little theatregoers will be inspired with live classical music from Australian Chamber Orchestra when The Princess, The Pea (and The Brave Escape) comes to The Art House in May. It was written by awardwinning playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer (Magic Beach, Are We There Yet?), with an original score by Bryony Marks (Barracuda, Summer Heights High).
A prequel to Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale
The Princess & The Pea, it is a whimsical and fantastical adventure about celebrating the little things in life as a sensitive princess is turned into a rebellious one, who longs to leave behind the glittery trappings of royalty to truly see the world.
Princess Isabella must find the courage to leave behind everything she knows to discover the things she doesn’t.
“The fact that this show is about the small things in life –and celebrating those small things to the point that the more you look for them, the more fascinating they become – is guiding all of our creative decisions,” Kruckemeyer said.
Marks said audiences could
expect to hear a variety of different music styles in the page-to-stage adaptation.
“We start with a concert string quartet sound, so something that’s taking itself as seriously as you do when you go and hear chamber music in a concert hall, and then we splinter off into a variety of genres that are
Author talk Sarah Barrie and Tea Cooper in conversation: Lake Haven Library 6.30pm
Michael Kopp: Gosford RSL Club 5.30pm
CENTRAL COAST POTTERS
SOCIETY’S SURF & TURF: THE COMMUNITY GALLERY, GOSFORD REGIONAL GALLERY 11AM * TO 7 MAY
Outdoor movie night and free family fun: Kibble Park, Gosford 4pm
The Burt Bacharach
Songbook: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 7.30pm
Blondie vs Pretenders Tribute Show: Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm
Voxneon: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 8.30pm
The Crucible: Red Tree Theatre, Tuggerah * to 17 May
Montana: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm
Fairhaven All Inclusive Bush Dance: Fairhaven, Point Clare 5pm
Safe cycling: Jenny Dixon Reserve, Bungary Rd, Norah Head 9am
Central Coast Mariners FC: A-League Mens: Vs Brisbane Roar FC: Industree Group Stadium, Gosford 7:35pm
Central Coast Regional Show: Gosford Showground 9am *
Raising Ravens: Central Coast Single Launch: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 12pm
Reggae Night: Afro Moses Spirit Band Celebrating Bob Marley: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 7.30pm
dictated by the sensations of the different scenes in the story,” she said.
“In one particular scene, for example, there’s a frenetic train sequence, and the music sketch that I’ve written for that scene is in a modern music style in that it’s frantic and arrhythmic.
“And then that evolves into a
VISION AUSTRALIA SEEING
EYE DOGS STALL: CENTRAL COAST REGIONAL SHOW: GOSFORD SHOWGROUND 9AM + 4 MAY *
CENTRAL COAST EDIBLE GARDEN TRAIL: VARIOUS GARDENS + 4 MAY 9:30AM
Outdoor movie night and free family fun: The Chapman Lawn, Wyong 4pm
The Robertson Brothers’ 1960’s Variety TV Show: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 7.30pm to 4 May *
BritPop 90’s: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm
Friendlyjordies – Alien Hunter: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 7pm
Bethany Pike & DJ Simon Pugsley: Gosford RSL Club 3pm & 8pm
sizzling-hot lazy day at the seaside, and the music becomes almost jazzy.
“So different genres will brush up against each other.”
Marks said she was very aware of a short attention span in enthusiastic young audiences and the show contained lots of action and excitement.
The show was programmed
Australian Heritage Festival - Wyong Heritage Tours: Various by Wyong Family History Group 11am *
Words on the Waves book launch: Casey Gray: Erina Library 1.30pm
Brackets & Jam: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 2pm
Brothers In Arms - A Tribute To Dire Straits: Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm
Rumours - A Tribute To Fleetwood Mac: Avoca Beach Theatre 1.30pm
Sustainable House Day 2025: Narara Ecovillage 9am
The Pearl Jam Experience: Celebrating The 30Th Anniversary of Pearl Jam’s
8-6pm on Saturday
Coast Community News (CCN) brings you a selection of events happening across the region this week. While we strive for accuracy, please check with organisers for updates. Have an event you want listed? Email whatson@centralcoastnews.net with your event name, location and start time.
as part of the theatre’s 2025 Education Program and caters to school groups (though general public seats are available).
The performance also includes a post-show Meet The Musicians session where audience members can ask questions about the
1995 Australian Tour: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 5pm
Be Bop A Lula Duo: Gosford RSL Club 1pm
THE ACO COLLECTIVE QUARTET: THE ART HOUSE STUDIO, WYONG 7.30PM
The Princess, The Pea (and The Brave Escapee): The Art House Theatre, Wyong 10am to 7 May *
Talking with Seniors Roadshow - Health topics: North South Road, Erina 9.30am
Moss and Succulent Vertical Garden Workshop: Kariong Library 10.30am
Plot Play: Erina Library 11am
The Worst Show Ever: Central Coast: Drifters Wharf, 6pm
WED 7 MAY
Creating art on holiday with local artist Julie-Anne Rogers: Erina Library 10.30am
performance, music and instruments.
The Princess, The Pea (and The Brave Escapee) will be at The Art House at 10am on Tuesday, May 6, and Wednesday, May 7. It is recommended for ages 3-10.
Book on the theatre’s website: thearthousewyong.com.au
Toukley Cycle Club: Osborne Park, Peel St, Toukley 9am Book club for tweens: Hedgewitch by Skye McKenna: Umina Beach Library 3.30pm
Live Music by the Sea at Killcare Beach: Killcare Surf Club 10.30am
AN EVENING WITHOUT KATE BUSH: THE ART HOUSE THEATRE, WYONG 8PM
Tech Savvy Seniors for Apple iPads and iPhones Users: The Erina Centre 10am
Author Talk: Peter Fisher presents ‘Wish You Were Here: A History of Tourism on the NSW Central Coast’: Umina Beach Library 10.30am
Tech Savvy SeniorsFor All Devices: The Erina Centre 1pm
Be Connected Webinar: Safer online shopping and banking: Toukley Library 3pm
Nurse Georgie Carroll: Infectious: Laycock St Theatre, Wyoming 8pm
Want even more exposure for your event? See our advertising opportunities by either scanning the QR code or visiting: coastcommunitynews.com.au/whats-on
A walking tour on May 4
will explore the historical remains of Dubbo Gully when Mangrove Creek was a thriving community with wharves, inns and slab homes.
Secrets of Dubbo Gully is one of the local events in the National Trust 2025 Australian Heritage Festival (NSW).
Walkers will visit hidden sites of a former community, former orchards, and Fairview homestead and St Thomas Cemetery.
The expert guide will bring to life the histories of settlers from the 1830s and 1840s.
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness for the 10km walk mainly along fire trails.
It will be held on Sunday, May 4 from 9am to 4pm.
The meeting point is The Hub of Mangrove Mountain, Waratah Rd, on the corner of Wisemans Ferry Rd.
Pre-booking is required at www.heritageadventures. com.au
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Nathan Foley will bring his show Unforgettable to The Art House, Wyong, on May 11.
Accompanied by a a sevenpiece band, he will showcase the best of the 50s and 60s from the era of big band, soul and rock ‘n’ roll.
With classics from Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Elvis Presley,Roy Orbison and Tom Jones, Foley will perform such
classics as Twistin’ the Night Away, Proud Mary, You Can’t Hurry Love, and Dancing in the Streets.
Foley first became a household name as an original singer/presenter on Channel 9’s hit children’s show, Hi-5, and has been wowing fans young and old for 35 years on both the stage and television.
A role on Channel 10’s I Will Survive took him around
Australia and to Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York and in 2019 he hit the screens again on Channel 9’s The Voice.
Most recently he landed a lead role in the independent psychological horror/thriller film The Banshee.
Unforgettable plays at The Art House at 2pm on Sunday, May 11.
Book at thearthousewyong. com.au
The Burt Bacharach Songbook, honouring one of pop music’s greatest composers, will be performed at two Central Coast venues in coming weeks.
Bacharach wrote enduring and memorable hits for such iconic artists as Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, Tom Jones, Perry Como, and many more. This celebration honours his remarkable legacy, featuring unforgettable hits like What The World Needs Now; Walk On
By; Promises, Promises; What’s New Pussycat; and Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head.
Over his illustrious career, Bacharach’s notable songs in association with Hal David also included The Carpenters’ Close To You, Gene Pitney’s 24 Hours To Tulsa, Cilla Black’s Alfie and many others.
His music has featured on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts, and won Oscars, Tony Awards and Grammies.
The songs will be performed
Both individually and together, they have become two of the most sought-after singers in the US.
They will be accompanied by a live band.
The Burt Bacharach Songbook will play at The Art House Wyong on Friday, May 2. Book at thearthousewyong. com.au
It will also play at Ettalong Diggers on Sunday, May 18. Book at diggersettalong.com
Central Coast based author Lauren McKellar’s latest book, The Calendar Mums, has been described as a warm, funny and heartbreaking book about what it means to be a mother.
The Calendar Mums, published by Harper Collins, aims to balance light and dark, touching on issues of identity, postpartum mental health and community, and is a reminder to mothers that they were women first, women who are strong, capable and not to be underestimated.
The book centres around the Hickory Creek Community Centre, a lifeline for new mums. When a bad case of black
mould threatens to end the only women’s services available in their small town, a new mothers’ group bands together to save it.
The plan is to create a
fundraiser calendar featuring themselves – in the nude.
As the mothers bare all, it doesn’t take long for them to start baring their secrets too.
“While I have never been brave enough to pose for a nude calendar, there are pieces of me in each of the mothers in the book,” McKellar said.
“(There are) a lot of the themes, including loss of identity and that worry that you’re not good enough as a parent, or the concern that maybe the parenting choice you’re making isn’t the right one.
“Absolutely, I felt those feelings and asked those questions, and I still ask them every day.
“There’s no guidebook to being a parent that caters for every child and every situation
– and The Calendar Mums certainly isn’t one either!
“But I hope that all mothers see a part of themselves in one of the three protagonists and that it helps them make difficult conversations easier.”
The mother of three grew up in Kincumber and Avoca Beach and now lives at Berkeley Vale.
“In typical Coastie fashion, I’ve also lived in North Avoca, Ettalong and Wamberal; this area has always been my home,” she said.
When she’s not writing books, McKellar edits fiction and is also Managing Editor for Paper
Pocket, a range of calendars and diaries, and the Bookazines program at Universal Media Co.
She was inspired to write The Calendar Mums based on her own experiences.
“I was desperate to have a baby once my husband and I were married,” she said.
“We tried to conceive for quite a long time, and then the day came, and my son was born.
“He’s a beautiful boy now, but he was challenging when he was younger.
“He was one of those ‘doesn’t sleep/must always be nursed and rocked vigorously’ babies – and I really struggled.
“One day, as I was heading
along the M1 on the way back from Sydney, I was driving over the bridge just before the Gosford turnoff and I thought: what would it be like to just drive off?
“That was a trigger for me; thoughts like that are not okay.”
“When I fell pregnant with my second child, I knew I needed coping mechanisms in place.
“Writing has always been there for me during challenging times, so I promised myself I’d write from the day I came home from the hospital.
“And, as I wasn’t exactly feeling romantic – romance being my previous genre of choice – creating a story about motherhood seemed the perfect fit.”
On the eve of a major national decision, there’s only one vote that truly matters on the Central Coast – Blondie vs Pretenders.
It will be the ultimate showdown of the goddesses of rock lands at Avoca Theatre on May 2, and everyone is invited to cast their allegiance through song, style and pure swagger.
Presented by Access All Eras, this high-energy tribute show brings the hits and the stories
By Sally Rooney
Readers of Rooney’s fourth novel, Intermezzo, are at risk of developing the false impression that it is, at its heart, a romance - as it is touted with love as its central theme.
It does contain the romantic relationships of two brothers: Peter, the former a lawyer in his early 30s who uses work, drugs, and alcohol to avoid his emotions; and Ivan, a chess champion in his early 20s with braces and no romantic experience.
Peter has lingering feelings for his ex-girlfriend Sylvia and is now in a new relationship with a 23-year-old student and camgirl named Naomi.
Ivan falls for Margaret, a 36-year-old divorcée; the age difference matters not to him.
The relationships seem to mirror the intertwining romantic relationships present in Rooney’s first three novels, yet the central relationship in this book is familial.
Intermezzo moves into new territory for Rooney, blending her characteristic emotional
depth with a fresh focus on a different type of relationship.
An element missing in Rooney’s other novels is the violence in this one.
Although the novel is a step forward thematically and stylistically, Intermezzo shows off what Rooney does best and that is writing complex, resonant characters and confronting the intricacies of human connection.
One slight negative – I was disappointed by how stereotypical Ivan’s implied neurodivergence was.
If Rooney was aware of this, instead of fixing the problem and diving into some research for Ivan’s narrative, she focused on what is so obviously her favourite character – Margaret.
Julie Chessman
behind the songs, from two of the most iconic bands in rock history.
With a powerful video backdrop and a killer live band, audiences will be transported to the wild heydays of the 70s and 80s –where glam and guitars reigned supreme.
Starring Amanda Easton as the dazzling Deborah Harry of Blondie, and Sarina Jennings as the fierce and fearless Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders, the
show features an elite line-up of musicians with Mike Caen (guitar – Mental as Anything), Tim Wedde (keys – Jenny Morris), Lloyd Gyi (drums – The Atlantics) and Steve Bull (bass – Icehouse).
From Brass in Pocket to Heart of Glass, every track is a hit, every story is wild, and every moment is steeped in rock ‘n’ roll history.
And while the Federal election is on May 3, this is a chance to
warm up those decision-making muscles in the most fun way possible.
Forget the polling booth drama – enjoy the queens of rock the night before, with a soundtrack that defined generations.
It’s on Friday, May 2, at 7.30pm at Avoca Beach Theatre.
Tickets available online by searching for Blondie vs Pretenders at humanitix.com/ au/search
Life, Luck and Lessons Learned is a poignant and humorous tale starting against the backdrop of rural New Zealand, written by Ettalong author John Burgess.
It’s his fifth book and third published; his first being Life, Luck and Liaisons and the second What’s the Story?
His latest offering tells the tale of a determined father who buys a farm in the heart of Northland, little knowing where that will lead.
In time the son becomes disillusioned with life on the farm and in 1965 he leaves the family farm to gain experience in international meat trading.
He goes to work first in Liverpool, and then in London.
In 1970 he emigrates to Montreal, Canada, where he becomes familiar with the intricacies of the North American meat trade.
Those experiences lead to the establishment of his own meat trading company in Sydney in 1971.
Eventually his company becomes one of the largest meat exporters in Australia.
The narrative weaves a tapestry of life’s trials and
Author John Burgess
triumphs, highlighting the bonds forged through hard work and shared experiences.
Burgess, 88, was born in New Zealand at the outbreak of WWII.
Upon leaving boarding school he undertook farming apprenticeships.
Later, he made his way to London, where he discovered he had a talent for international trading.
The meat industry gave him a new career in an office environment.
While in London, he married Jenny, a fellow Kiwi.
After a few years in England and Canada, they moved to Australia, where John established his own meat
trading enterprise, which required extensive travel at home and abroad.
Through a series of autobiographies Burgess has shared his life experiences offering insight into a time of immense change and freedom following WWII and well into the early 2000s.
Starting in rural New Zealand and following Burgess’ travels through the Pacific, Asia, Europe, Canada and eventually settling in Australia, his experiences capture the wonders of a bygone era as well as the trials and tribulations of a career in the meat and livestock industry and their characters – the good, the great and those from which a lesson or two could be learned.
Step into the shoes of Wyong locals from the 19th century by joining one of four Wyong Heritage
Guided Walks being held throughout May.
The tours are being run by the Wyong Family History Group as part of an annual celebration of the National Trust Australian Heritage Festival.
They will showcase local buildings and highlight their longstanding historic significance with visits to such locations as The Chapman Building, Alison Homestead Museum, Wyong Milk Factory, Central Coast Wetlands Pioneer Dairy, The Royal Hotel and Turton’s Corner.
There will be an array of photographs showing how the town looked in its earliest days.
Free self-guided audio tours and virtual reality experiences are also available.
To find more information, search ‘wyong heritage walk’ at lovecentralcoast.com
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Get ready for another great night of blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll at the historic hall among the gumtrees on Saturday, May 3, as Blues on the Mountain returns to Mangrove Mountain Hall.
The stellar lineup features the Queen of Oceanic Blues and Soul, Karen Lee Andrews with her all-star band plus rising star, Cormac Grant.
Great food and light refreshments will be available for purchase on the night or BYO welcome.
Karen Lee Andrews, fresh off the back of touring with seminal Aussie rock band Cold Chisel on their 50th anniversary tour,
is widely regarded as one of Australia’s best female blues and soul artists.
The commanding woman of soul is set to launch her new album Survival at the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall.
The album sees Andrews reconnect with her guitar and her roots and setting the festival scene alight with new original music with an all-star band featuring renowned bass player, Adam Ventoura and drumming ace, Yanya Boston.
Her shows around the country have received rave reviews.
Hailing from Newcastle, Cormac Grant is a talented young singer songwriter and guitarist, winning new fans
wherever he plays with his smooth vocals and a sound reminiscent of artists such as James Blunt and Pete Murray. Don’t miss this rising star making his Blues on the Mountain debut.
Blues on the Mountain is an all ages, family friendly event.
Doors open at 6pm and food will be available, BYO drinks and snacks.
Camping sites are also available, so why not make a weekend of it with the Farmers and Artisans Market on Sunday. Tickets are limited. To book visit events.humanitix.com/ host/blues-on-the-mountain
Charismatic comedian
Darren Sanders will bring his highly anticipated show, Confessions of a Comedic Mind, to the Central Coast this month. Performances will be on Saturday, May 3, at Ourimbah RSL Club and Toukley Golf Club on Saturday, May 31.
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The event promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, relatable anecdotes and unexpected twists.
Sanders’ journey from humble beginnings in Adelaide to pursuing his acting dreams in Hollywood has been described as nothing short of remarkable.
However, it was in stand-up comedy that he truly found his calling, captivating audiences across Australia and beyond with his unique brand of humour.
A comedy show with heart and hilarity, Confessions of a Comedic Mind offers a hilarious and raw glimpse into Sanders’ perspective on life.
Covering everything from everyday absurdities to modern societal quirks, his comedic confessions resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. Expect big laughs, candid stories, and plenty of surprises in this 60-minute comedic masterpiece. Bookings are available on the club websites.
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Private care apartment
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Phegans Bay artist Leonardo Uribe, who uses hair in his artworks, has placed second in the Dobell Drawing Prize.
Australia’s leading prize for drawing, the biennial Dobell Drawing Prize highlights the enduring relevance and changing role of drawing in contemporary art practice.
This year’s prize showcases the work of 56 finalists, selected from 965 nationwide entries with the winners selected by the judging panel led by artist Vernon Ah Kee.
Uribe’s piece, Dad’s Last Portrait, uses the hair of his father to recreate his death certificate.
Uribe’s father died in Colombia during the pandemic lockdowns.
salon and his older sister worked in the salon, standing on a stool to cut hair as a child.
“She was 10 years old with regular clients,” Uribe said. He “draws” with hair by cutting the material into fine pieces.
He then painstakingly glues the hair to paper, a process that takes many hours; individual artworks take more than 20 hours to complete.
Uribe recently created a side business making portraits of pets using their fur.
“It’s an incredible honour to receive this recognition from the judges of the Dobell Drawing Prize,” he said.
“I have long admired Vernon
Living in Chittaway Bay at the time, he was unable to travel to Colombia to say goodbye which plunged him into depression.
Voting for the PBEAT2025 People’s Choice Award closed on Saturday, April 26, with the tied winning entries announced at a community morning tea at Pearl Beach Hall.
The two winning entries received an equal number of People’s Choice voting and also received the highest number of eligible votes.
Both works involved the careful application of creativity, skill and time in their creation.
The winners, Andrew Alter and Kristen Erling, will split the prize and receive $500 each, thanks to the sponsorship by Belle Property Central Coast.
Alter’s A Stretch of the Imagination allowed viewers to imagine a giraffe, made from
paperbark mâché and palm fonds, in Pearl Beach.
Drawing inspiration from local materials, Alter crafted larger than life forms that explore unreal possibilities.
His interest in conservation across international borders help shape his approach to seeing and hearing old things in new ways.
Erling’s Goddess Worships Sun and Moon is derived from the harmony of nature’s revolutions of the sun and moon, vital to sustaining earth’s own cycles.
The colours of the three pieces symbolises the energy of powerful forces.
Erling, a local emerging artist, used repurposed satellite dishes, mosaic and natural materials.
Ah Kee’s work which makes this even more special.
“It has been humbling to see other people connect with the artwork and share their stories of loss with me.”
In 2023, Uribe’s piece
Immigration Form 80 was highly commended by the art prize.
The artwork used Uribe’s hair and recreated one of the numerous documents required
during the arduous process of becoming an Australian citizen.
Uribe uses hair as a marker of identity but it also has deep emotional ties.
He grew up in Colombia, where his mother ran a hair
Separated from his beloved cat Cookie during an art residency in Spain, he used some of her fur to create a portrait to remember her by.
Ever since, friends and family members have been asking him to make portraits of their pets which led him to start Hairloom Pet Portraits.
Anthony Albanese and your local Labor MP Gordon Reid have failed the Coast:
Electricity, childcare, food and insurance prices are up
Broken promises including $275 off power bills
Housing crisis, with 12 interest rate rises and 16% increase in rents
$450m referendum that divided Australians
Weak leadership
A Central Coast Film Production Precinct has been lodged as a State Significant Development for a 20 hectare site at Calga.
The proposal for 49 Jones Rd consists of film production studios, education facilities, workshops and warehouses, tourist and visitor accommodation.
It includes a multi-storey 180-room hotel, parking for more than 700 cars, an entertainment quarter for cafes, restaurants and bars, a 1000-seat performance centre, production spaces and a variety of supporting infrastructure, including a helipad.
The proposal comes at the same time as a Bill is progressing through the NSW Parliament aimed at reducing red tape and maximising opportunities for filmmakers of screen and digital games production in NSW.
The bill proposes associated amendments to the Local Government Act to allow local councils to be accredited as “screen production friendly”.
The Calga proposal comes from Central Coast Studios Pty Ltd.
Directors Heath Bonnefin and Craig Giles spoke to Coast Community News.
“Our vision for Central Coast Studios is to put our beautiful region on the map – globally – as a leading destination for film, television and gaming production,” they said.
“The proposed studios precinct will not only create hundreds of professional roles in film, television and gaming here on the Coast, but will create a host of new opportunities across tourism, education and small business while future-proofing and showcasing Greater Sydney.
“For us, this is a gamechanging investment in the Coast’s creative and economic future.”
A horse training business currently operates on the Calga site which is less than a kilometre from the freeway and only about 10km from Gosford.
The estimated cost of the project is $240M excluding GST and it would create thousands of jobs for NSW creative industries artists and other ancillary jobs, the scoping report says.
“Currently, close to 50% of the film and television industry is based in NSW, with over 2,300 screen production businesses employing over 15,000 people,” the report says.
It says almost 4000 jobs were created in Sydney when The Fall Guy was filmed.
But it says there is a distinct skill shortage in highly skilled technical roles across Australia that is inhibiting the state’s ability to raise further revenue.
“To allow NSW to remain competitive as a market leader for the growth and employment of talent in this industry, the proposal offers direct pathways
for workers to engage in industry-ready training through strategic partnerships with tertiary education providers within the precinct, whilst also generating thousands of jobs through the attraction of major productions being filmed at the studios,” the report says.
It says the development will contribute to a competitive and resilient economy by diversifying local enterprises.
“By establishing a major creative industry hub, Central Coast Studios will attract film production companies, media professionals, and associated businesses to the Central Coast, generating employment and fostering skills development in the region,” the scoping report says.
It says that environmental protection remains a core priority, particularly in safeguarding the Central Coast’s drinking water catchments.
The next step in the plan is for the State Government to publish its Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirement (SEARS).
SEARS essentially is a list of all the documents and consultation needed to assess the project before a decision can be made on the concept.
If approved, there is then a whole lot of detailed work before development applications (DAs) can be lodged for each building.
Central Coast Councillor John McNamara, Chair of Council’s
Economic Development Committee, has written a letter of support and commended Central Coast Studios for the “visionary project”.
“The various productions and events hosted by your studio will draw visitors from outside our region, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of our community,” McNamara said.
“I am particularly impressed by the educational initiatives that Central Coast Studios will implement.
“By offering workshops, internships, and mentorship programs, you will empower aspiring filmmakers, writers and artists to pursue their passions and develop their skills.”
McNamara said it would
inspire a new generation of creatives.
“Your collaborations with local schools, non-profit organizsations, and community groups will foster a sense of unity and pride,” he said. He said the outreach programs and community events would bring people together, creating a shared sense of purpose and belonging.
“In conclusion, I wholeheartedly support Central Coast Studios and this incredible project.
“Your contributions to the arts, the economy, education, and the community will be invaluable.”
Gosford locals know it as the Gossy Good Times site.
Or maybe as Frogys, even though the skating rink has long been demolished.
Or, if you’re really old, the site of the Brisbane Water County Council building, still there but derelict, with the words Gossy Good Times graffitied on the back of the building, easily read by anyone wandering along Baker St.
But drive past the site now and the signs on the new fencing tells you that “Almalfi” by developer Aland is coming. And now Aland has lodged its development application (DA) for the site with Central Coast Council.
But the plans are not new. They are a modification of plans approved in December 2015 and modified in May 2017.
The concept proposes three towers rising from a three to four storey podium level.
The L-shaped site takes in 50-70 Mann St and 114
Georgiana Terrace, Gosford.
It’s a mere stroll from where the other Aland development of two towers on the corner of Mann St and Donnison St is nearing completion.
The Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) states that fundamentally the proposed development is largely unchanged from the approved DA of 2015. It generally retains the footprint, height floor space ratio and sets.
“Most changes are largely internal and the form and presentation of the building is largely maintained as approved which is clearly seen on the submitted elevations that
demonstrate that the presentation of the building, its key design elements and overall height and massing are largely unchanged from the prior approvals on the site,” the SEE says.
The modifications would yield 507 residential apartments in three towers ranging from 20 storeys to 25-28.
The proposal adopts the following mix: 50 x 1 bed units; 304 x 2 bed; 153 x 3/4 bed including 8 x ‘sky homes’.
We are inviting residential and business customers to have your say on future water and sewer service improvement options and what you would be willing to pay for those services. Have your say now! Community pop-ups – chat with our team to find out more:
• Outside Erina Library: 9am-2pm, 29 April
• Tuggerah Westfield: 1pm-8pm, 1 May
• Bateau Bay Square: 8am-3pm, 3 May
• Deepwater Plaza Woy Woy: 12pm-5pm, 6 May
• Lake Munmorah Shopping Centre: 12pm-6pm, 8 May
Complete the survey before Sunday 11 May at yourvoiceourcoast.com or scan the code
Eight levels of parking would provide 964 car spaces and 42 motorbike parks.
The mixed use development includes future plans for a childcare centre, gym, supermarket and specialty shops.
“It is noted that this proposal nominates uses for the gym, child care and supermarket proposal to enable a suitable assessment of the whole project- particularly as it relates to traffic and parking
demand and to incorporate the necessary built form elements for these uses,” the SEE says.
“However the detailed fit-out and formal approvals for use of those tenancies will be carried out under a future application.”
The heritage of the county council building has been addressed in the SEE.
The SEE lists: the original foyer staircase including terrazzo treads; three timber doors, joinery and entry doors; elements from the front timber
foundation
a
as relief by local sculptor Leroy Staley; and the clock town as elements that “would be retained, restored or rebuilt/ reinstated”.
The development application was lodged with Central Coast Council on April 2 and will go on public exhibition at some stage of the assessment process.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against the former operator of a vehicle smash repairs shop in Gosford.
Facing court is sole trader Stuart Angel, who formerly operated Angel Smash Worx.
A Fair Work Inspector issued a Compliance Notice to Angel in August 2023 after forming a belief that a worker he employed on a full-time basis between 2018 and 2022, including a period when the worker was engaged as an adult apprentice, had not received his minimum entitlements.
The inspector formed a belief that Angel had not paid the worker’s minimum wages and annual leave entitlements, and failed to reimburse the worker for training costs associated with his apprenticeship.
It is alleged the entitlements were owed under the Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Services and Retail Awards 2010 and 2020 and the Fair Work Act’s National Employment Standards.
The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges Angel, without a reasonable excuse, failed to comply with the Compliance
Notice, which required him to calculate and back-pay the worker’s entitlements.
It is also alleged Angel breached the Fair Work Act by failing to issue the worker with pay slips during his employment.
Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said the regulator would continue to enforce workplace laws and take employers to court where lawful requests are not complied with.
“Where employers do not comply, we will take appropriate action to protect employees,” she said.
“A court can order an employer to pay penalties and make payments to workers.
“Any employees with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact us for free advice and assistance.”
The FWO is seeking penalties in court.
For the alleged failure to comply with the Compliance Notice, Angel faces a penalty of up to $9,390.
For the alleged pay slip breach, he faces a penalty of up to $13,320.
The regulator is also seeking an order requiring Angel to
comply with the Compliance Notice, including rectifying any amount owed under the Compliance Notice in full, plus interest and superannuation.
A directions hearing is listed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Sydney on June 12.
Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance.
An interpreter service is available on 13 14 50. Employees can also seek information from their employer or their union, if they are a union member.
The FWO provides a free online course to help employers understand what a Compliance Notice is and how to respond if they get one.
The Compliance Notice course, among a suite of free interactive courses on offer for employers, managers and employees, is available in our online learning centre.
Small businesses can find targeted resources at the Small Business Showcase and information is also available on the website for apprentices and trainees.
Central Coast Council is calling on event organisers and businesses to bring their creativity and expertise to the region, with funding available for five community events in The Entrance and Toukley during the 2025-26 financial year.
Council is committed to fostering a vibrant and engaging community by supporting events that celebrate life on the Coast for both residents and visitors.
It is now inviting interested parties to become involved.
Events Council is seeking proposals for: Christmas Carols at The Entrance (December 24); Toukley Event (June 2025June 2026); Toukley/Norah Head Event (June 2025-June 2026); Christmas at Toukley (December); and Australia Day Eve at Toukley (January 25, 2026).
To view the criteria and apply, search ‘community event proposals’ at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au
Submissions are due via email by Sunday, May 4.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Sand nourishment has not become the priority of Central Coast Council but it will lobby for it.
And the message from councillors and CEO David Farmer, and apparently in a letter from Premier Chris Minns to Council, off shore sand nourishment as a way of protecting coastal beaches is not going to happen quickly.
The issue was the first item dealt with at the April 29 meeting of Council after four community members addressed councillors at the public forum immediately before the meeting.
Two speakers spoke for sand nourishment and two spoke against it.
Councillor Corinne Lamont brought the matter to Council, asking her fellow councillors to “adopt a formal position of prioritising offshore sand nourishment over beach armouring and seawalls in its coastal management plans, as a sustainable and environmentally sensitive approach to addressing coastal erosion”.
She also asked for Council to lobby the NSW Government for access to offshore sand nourishment opportunities and
for the upcoming Coastal Management Plan (CMP) to reflect this position, with a focus on integrating offshore sand nourishment into future coastal erosion mitigation strategies.
Councillor Jared Wright moved an amendment which basically asked Council: to continue to lobby the NSW and Federal Government for access to offshore sand nourishment opportunities for Central Coast beaches; to advocate for
funding; and for the CMP draft to be brought forward as soon as possible.
This was the motion that was adopted.
It included an amendment from Councillor Jane Smith that the CEO gauge the interest of other coastal councils in a taskforce for beach nourishment to explore the approvals and infrastructure that would be needed and the potential for sharing of costs with a further report back to Council in three months.
The report to the meeting said the Mayor had recently written to the Premier to seek further information on the NSW Government’s approach to offshore sand nourishment, following his recent statement at the Terrigal Community Cabinet on April 1 that the State Government would not participate in an application for a seawall on its properties along Wamberal beach.
CEO David Farmer said the approach to sand nourishment would need to include all three levels of government.
In response to a question from Smith, he said the dredge for offshore sand nourishment would be beyond a single council and would need a whole of coast approach.
The draft CMP is expected within six weeks, with Wright suggesting a brief summary to the planning and environment committee.
Earlier, the CEO had explained in the Council report tabled at the meeting that the CMP for the Open Coast will assess a range of options to address coastal erosion threatening public beaches.
“Solutions are based on site specific locations, beach dynamics and land tenure,” the CEO said.
“All recommended solutions outlined in a CMP must be legally and economically viable.”
The vote for Wright’s amendment was 7-7 with Team Central Coast and the Liberals voting for it and Labor and the two independents voting against it.
Councillor Rachel Stanton was not in the room.
The Mayor used his casting vote to make it 8-7.
How much are you willing to pay for improved water and sewer services?
Central Coast Council wants to know before it submits its next pricing proposal to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
“This is your opportunity to influence your services and future water rates for our next pricing structure,” a Council spokesperson said.
“Community feedback will also help inform what optional investment projects are included in the next IPART pricing proposal impacting services in 2026–2031.”
Council will submit its pricing proposal in September 2025.
In the meantime, residents recently have been asked to register their interest to attend a community forum in either Wyong or Gosford.
customer values and desired outcomes, engagement preferences and appetite to pay for improved service levels.
Residents in phase three responded to the question “imagine” with ideas such as a “water usage app that provides notifications and allows you to track your usage” and complained about the smell around Kincumber treatment plant, especially on Fridays.
IPART set the current prices in 2022 from a council submission: water bills increased by $80 (6%) in 2023-24, $106 (8%) in 2024-25 and $9 (1%) in 202526, as well as by inflation.
Then in March 2026, IPART will release a draft decision on the proposed price increases.
The Central Coast has a population of 348,930 people and the water and sewer system includes three dams, three weirs, three water treatment plants, more than 50 reservoirs and more than 5,010 kilometres of pipeline.
The sewer network consists of over 2660km of sewer mains connecting houses, businesses and public facilities to 324 pumping stations and 8 sewerage plants.
Council services more than 139,000 homes and businesses.
Also coming are community pop-ups where residents can talk to council staff.
The pop-ups are planned for:
Tuggerah Westfield from 1pm8pm on May 1; Bateau Bay
But if you missed that, you can complete an online survey, which started on Tuesday, April 22.
With construction booming on the Central Coast, TAFE NSW Ourimbah is set to launch a new, fee-free preapprenticeship program.
The Statement of Attainment in Pre-Apprenticeship in Construction will teach students practical, hands-on skills and basic theory, while earning industry recognised credentials that can lead to an apprenticeship and future employment.
With the region’s population expected to increase by more than 26,500 people over the next 10 years, the course will stimulate career pathways and build a pipeline of skilled tradespeople to meet growing infrastructure demands.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the introduction of the new
MacRae of 24/7 Care Disability Services & Activity Hub at Tuggerah has been named Diversity Award winner at the 2025 Women Changing the World Awards.
The awards celebrate and recognise women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, tech, product development, education, health and innovation. They are designed to recognise the growing number of women who are leading the way in making the world a
Square from 8am-3pm on May 3; Deepwater Plaza Woy Woy from noon-5pm on May 6; and Lake Munmorah Shopping Centre from noon-6pm on May 8.
“To help ensure we’re hearing from across our community,
industry and consumer groups have also been invited to participate in targeted consultation as part of phase 4 of this project,” Council said.
A report from phase three noted that community input was required to help understand
The current community consultation will help Council with its submission for the next price rise.
In October, IPART will provide feedback on Council’s proposal and in November residents will be able to attend a public hearing about the proposal.
course was a welcome step forward in training the next generation of tradespeople.
“As our regions grow, so does the pressure on our building and construction industry,” he said.
“Removing financial barriers to training attracts new talent to the sector and boosts the number of people taking up careers in the trades.
“We know that apprenticeships lead to jobs.
“This course will not only teach essential skills; it will provide an opportunity for students to go on to secure apprenticeships, and longterm employment.”
Daniel Burg, TAFE NSW Team Leader – Construction, said the Statement of Attainment in Pre Apprenticeship in Construction is a great opportunity for
anyone interested in learning a trade.
“The course will give students an entry point into the building and construction industry and equip them with essential skills that will take them to the next level,” he said.
“Students will complete six nationally recognised units that can contribute to gaining an apprenticeship in their chosen trade and get one step closer to a rewarding career.
“Whether you’re looking for a career change, interested in turning a passion into a career, or eager to get back into the workforce, we encourage you to enrol.”
The Statement of Attainment in Pre-Apprenticeship in Construction will commence at TAFE NSW Ourimbah on Monday, May 5.
The latest on-line survey closes on May 11 at www. yourvoiceourcoast.com/ future-water-and-sewerservice-options
better place for all and inspiring other women to answer the call to act.
Learning adaptability and the importance of hard work and structure by working on her family’s oyster lease from a young age, MacRae developed a talent for leadership, problem-solving and resilience.
The Berkeley Vale resident founded 24/7 Care Disability Services, focused on community, inclusivity, and support for marginalised individuals.
She was excited to win gold in her category in the 2025 Women Changing the World Awards.
“Who would’ve thought a small-town girl like me would
be standing on a global stage, getting recognised for something I’m so passionate about?”, she said.
“It’s surreal and humbling.
“This award means so much because it’s proof that hard work and staying true to yourself can take you places you never imagined.
“It’s a reminder that dreams, no matter how big, are always within reach.
“I was truly inspired by the incredible women in my category; each of them has such a unique story, and their strength, resilience, and
achievements are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
“Being surrounded by such powerhouse women made me realise how much we can lift each other up and push boundaries together.”
In the past 12 months MacRae has continued to grow 24/7 Care Disability Services and has been a finalist and winner across multiple national and global business awards, including the AusMumpreneur Awards and Australian Small Business Champion Awards.
She is co-author of Purpose and Passion and Women Living Fearlessly, sharing the story of
how she went from young single mum to successful founder, inspiring others globally.
She attributes her successes to resilience, lived experience, a fierce love for her daughters, and an unshakable belief that everyone deserves a place where they belong, are seen, and are heard.
The complete list of winners can be found at: wcwawards. com/winners
Myrtec has appointed David Hasell as its new Business Development Manager for the Central Coast region.
Hasell has almost a decade of experience in the IT industry but has spent the past five years running a local gym. He brings a unique blend of
Since commencing his new role, Hasell has launched the Central Coast UnProfessionals Run Club, a new initiative aimed at fostering genuine connections among local business owners. He said that unlike traditional networking groups that could often feel clicky, forced or
offered a refreshing alternative by combining his passion for fitness with his love for meeting new people.
“I wanted to create a space where business owners can come together, enjoy a run, and build meaningful relationships without the pressure of a typical networking event,”
UnProfessionals Run Club is all about promoting a healthy lifestyle while also providing an opportunity for business owners to get to know each other in a relaxed and informal setting.”
Myrtec opened its Central Coast office last year and has a team of 15 dedicated staff members who are committed
to supporting Central Coast businesses.
Director Tristan Hough said Myrtec was thrilled to welcome more Central Coast locals to the team.
“As a partnerships-driven organisation, Myrtec supports our team to explore creative new ways to give back to our communities and we can’t wait
to watch the UnProfessionals Run Club grow,” he said. Through initiatives like the Central Coast UnProfessionals Run Club, Myrtec aims to encourage business owners to get a second opinion on their IT setup and explore how Myrtec can add value beyond the typical IT experience.
For more information go to www.myrtec.com.au
I’ve spent a lot of time in my garden replacing expansive lawns with vegetable gardens and flower beds, but I do see their use and their desirability, particularly for those who have a young family, enjoy outdoor games and for those who like a bit of manicured green lushness as a design feature.
If starting from scratch, you can either grow from seed or lay turf to start your green oasis.
Turf can pretty much be laid at any time of the year while seed sowing should be done either in spring or early winter.
WHICH GRASS?
For the Coast and similar climates, Buffalo Grasses are recommended as they are very hard-wearing, shade tolerate and do well in hot conditions.
A vigorous grower, (something that may or may not appeal to you), is Kikuyu.
It is also a little shade-tolerant, withstands dry periods and it stays very green in winter.
A newer grass is Zoysia which requires less water and mowing and along with being very soft in texture, is a lovely darker green.
These are just a few of the many grasses that could suit your needs.
macra) and Wallaby Grass (Austrodanthonia spp.).
Have a chat with the team at one of our wonderful local garden care centres to find the exact match for your garden and you.
STEP BY STEP TO LAYING TURF
Weed and rake over the soil and make sure it is level.
Roll out the turf and stagger your edges but make sure they are firmly butted up against each other.
Sprinkle a top dressing over the turf and using a broom work it gently into the turf.
Water in well.
STEP BY STEP TO SOWING SEEDS
Weed and rake over the soil and make sure it is level.
Measure the area you are sowing and following the seed supplier instructions for amount to sow for your area.
Sow as evenly as possible.
Rake over the seeds gently and then cover with 2mm of soil.
Water in well.
CARING FOR YOUR GRASS OASIS
Whether growing from seed or laid turf, lawn needs lots of water until it is very well established and has attained a height of 2cm.
Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.
Other alternatives that are rising in popularity include Australian Native grasses such as Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra),RedGrass(Bothriochloa
Water again very deeply and then hold off on the water for a few days so that roots will start seeking out water at lower levels.
Now you can settle into a deep
L
BY CHERALYN DARCEY
½ cup ammonia - contains nitrogen which leafy plants love 1 can lemonade - not diet as its included to provide sugars to feed the soil microbes
1 can beer - feeds the microbes and bacteria in the soil
1 cup baby shampoo - assists in absorption of fertilisers, don’t use antibacterial, 40 litres water
Spray lightly and evenly over your lawn evenly once a week and water in well.
watering every week when there is no heavy rainfall, but you may find that it needs additional watering during the height of summer or very hot dry periods. Lawns are also hungry and there are many commercially grown fertilisers on the market specifically catering to them or you can make your own.
Whatever you use, do not use too much or use it too often as you can ‘burn’ and even kill your lovely lawn.
Weed lawns by hand as soon as you see them pop up and ensure that you have lifted their roots out.
Pests can be troublesome, and, on The Coast, we experience more than our fair share of curl grub and the best way to prevent them is by ensuring your lawn is healthy and doesn’t dry out as they much prefer a poor lawn to a well maintained one.
An organic treatment is ‘Neem Oil’ and it is easily obtained commercially, follow the supplier’s instructions.
To keep lawns healthy, you do need to mow them regularly as it encourages the grass to develop stronger root systems
and it prompts new growth.
Your lawn is made up of lots of tiny plants that run and multiply, and this means it will become compacted by too many plants trying to fit into your defined area.
To help it, aerate your lawn in spring and autumn by spiking it with a garden fork every 10cm all over and wiggling it back and forth to create holes.
There are also spiked sandals and other ingenious gardening contraptions that can help with this process out there.
In autumn you should also ‘top-dress’ your lawn to add to the quality of the hard-working soil.
Do this a few weeks after autumn aeration.
Use a mixture of three parts sand to three parts loam to one part organic matter.
Spread evenly across the lawn to about 10mm in depth and work in with a broom.
Scarifying your lawn sounds scary but it is a way to remove build-up of dead grass in your lawn.
In spring and autumn, rake over the lawn to pick up this ‘thatch’.
Go in one direction and then
the opposite with a spring-rake to encourage the dead grass out.
GARDENING PLANNER
Now is the best time to plant for Spring colour and lawns can do with a feed.
This week you could plant: culinary herbs, artichokes, broad beans, broccoli, cabbages, cress, endive, leeks, lettuce, mustard, onions, peas, radishes, shallots, spinach, spring onions, turnips, ageratum, alyssum, calendula, candytuft, carnation, cineraria, columbine, coneflower, delphinium, dianthus, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, foxglove, godetia, gypsophila, hollyhock, honesty, larkspur, linaria, Livingstone daisy, lobelia, nemesia, nigella, pansy, polyanthus, poppy, primula, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower
Immediate relief. The Liberals will halve the petrol tax, saving you 25 cents every litre.
Low inflation. The Liberals will rein in wasteful spending that fuels inflation, reduce red tape and taxes on small businesses and stop supermarkets exploiting customers.
Cheaper energy. We will reserve more natural gas for Australians as part of a balanced energy mix, including more renewables and zero-emissions nuclear energy.
Affordable homes. We will fund infrastructure required for housing, assist first home buyers, and place a two-year ban on foreign investors and temporary residents purchasing existing homes.
Shirley Shuttle Cancer Outpatient Transport Service Central Coast, aka Shirley Shuttle, has celebrated 17 years of service having completed 9,200 individual trips during 2024 to ‘transportchallenged’ clients in its four sedan vehicles and thanks to dedicated volunteer drivers.
Shirley Shuttle survived the liquidation of Community Transport Central Coast (CTCC) during late September 2024 and was only off the road for
five days when client bookings and schedules recommenced with the dedication of the volunteer drivers and founder Barb Galvin until administration could be taken over by Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport managed by Helen Crouch.
Galvin quickly registered Shirley Shuttle Inc as a registered charity with a strong management team constitution and business plan to ensure continuation of the service via the generosity of the Central Coast community.
Shirley Shuttle celebrated the replacement of Shirley 1 thanks to a $15,000 donation from the Lions Family Central Coast with a matching grant from the Australian Lions Foundation (ALF), the third replacement of that vehicle since 2019.
Shirley 2 was replaced thanks to the Freemasons on the Central Coast with an extra donation of $7,500 towards vehicle maintenance costs of both vehicles.
Shirleys 3 and 4 will be replaced within the next few months at the cost of $35,750
each as they are overdue for replacement.
Michael Bell from Bendigo Bank provided $28,000 to keep one of the soon-to-be-replaced vehicles for use as a back-up vehicle when other vehicles are off the road for maintenance and to keep that vehicle maintained for up to three years.
Since 2008 Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) provided fuel cards to the four Shirley vehicles at the cost of $28,600 a year.
During late 2023 CCLHD indicated that fuel cards would not be continued as at June 30, 2025.
When Victoria and Christopher Logan from Wideline Windows and Doors heard the news, they deposited that amount into the Shirley Shuttle Inc account with no expectation of recognition.
Galvin founded Shirley Shuttle in March 2008 in memory of her mother Shirley who died of cancer in 2006 in recognition of other outpatients who struggled to get to treatment.
She said the Shirley Shuttle was truly one of a kind and could only continue with the support of the Central Coast community and the dedicated team of volunteer drivers.
Donations and speaking requests: barb@ shirleyshutleinc.org.au and shirleyshuttleinc.org.au or 0418 286 192.
Volunteer driver inquiries: volunteer@shirleyshuttleinc. org.au
Central Coast Council is calling on locals with lived experience of disability to share their ideas to improve access and inclusion for people with disability who live, work and play on the Central Coast.
Feedback from a range of inperson and online engagement activities will be used by Council to develop the next Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 2026-30.
Council Director of Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the Disability Inclusion Action Plan set out achievable and practical steps to make our community more accessible and inclusive.
“The action plan aims to create positive community attitudes and behaviours, more liveable communities, meaningful employment opportunities, and accessible
systems and processes for those living with disabilities,” Smith said.
“Community input is an integral part of developing a Disability Inclusion Action Plan and helps us understand what’s working well and what can be improved.
“We encourage people living with disability, their family, carers and advocacy groups to join the conversation, share their knowledge and experiences by participating in one of our online forums, community workshops or popups, or by completing our online survey.
“All feedback and ideas will play a crucial role in helping us to draft our new Disability Inclusion Action Plan.
“This will ensure the Plan reflects the needs and aspirations of people with lived experience of disability in our community.
“We will come back to the community to present the draft for further feedback before being adopted by Council later this year.”
Community consultation will be performed through an online survey where people can learn
more and provide feedback by Friday, May 9 at yourvoiceourcoast.com, a community workshop on Thursday, May 8, 5pm to 7pm at the council administration building, 2 Hely St, Wyong and a shopping centre pop-up on
Wednesday, May 7, 10am to 12:30 pm at Tuggerah Westfield.
Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said there were approximately 24,000 people living with a disability on the Central Coast.
“This diverse group of people with varying types and levels of disability, needs and circumstances are an integral part of our community and contribute to the social, cultural, and economic life of the region,” McKinna said.
“Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan details the strategies and actions that Council is implementing to create positive outcomes for people in our community.
“The delivery of the Plan, in collaboration with our community, local disability advocacy groups and organisations, and other levels of government, helps people with disability to have improved access to mainstream services, information, facilities, and open spaces.
“Council is committed to making meaningful progress in creating a more accessible and inclusive Central Coast.”
Asthma Australia is urging all political parties to prioritise the health of children on the Central Coast by supporting the Healthy Futures for Kids with Asthma program, which aims to reduce hospital admissions for children with asthma and improve their quality of life.
A study from the University of NSW has identified several areas within the Central Coast as childhood asthma clusters; groups of neighbouring areas where the proportion of children up to the age of 14 years asthma is higher than the national average of 6.3% reported in the 2021 Census.
Asthma Australia has reached out to Coast MPs highlighting the need for targeted support and intervention.
Areas specified as having a high prevalence of asthma among children aged up to 14
include: Gorokan-KanwalCharmhaven (10.66%); Blue Haven-San Remo (10.37%); and Warnervale-Wadalba (9.67%).
The Healthy Futures for Kids with Asthma Program is designed to provide additional,
The Australian Air League Doyalson Girls Squadron enjoyed a visit to Parliament House in Sydney recently, hosted by Member for Wyong David Harris.
Members of the only female squadron learnt about the procedures and roles in parliament, including Question Time where visitors can observe how questions are posed to government officials, the dynamics of debate and the accountability mechanisms at play.
Harris then gave the girls a private tour, sharing the history and guiding the group into historic architectural styled rooms.
He also presented Sally Cisek
targeted support for families and children with asthma, aiming to reduce hospital admissions and improve health outcomes.
Asthma Australia is calling on all political parties to include funding for the program in their healthcare policies.
The program aims to: strengthen connections between hospitals, general practitioners, schools, and families to provide better follow-up care; improve asthma education for children, parents, carers, and schools to prevent flare-ups and hospital
visits; and ensure children in high-risk areas have better access to affordable, quality asthma care.
Asthma is the most common chronic respiratory condition affecting children in Australia, with nearly 400,000 young people living with the condition in 2022.
It is also the costliest respiratory disease for primary healthcare with costs rising 50% from 2018-19 to 202223.
Managing a child’s asthma can be a huge financial strain on families, with the cost of doctor visits, medicines, and time off work adding up.
“Many neighbouring areas in the Central Coast have a higher proportion of children living with asthma compared to the national average, which increases demand and cost on the healthcare system,” Asthma Australia CEO Kate Miranda said.
“Our program is designed to meet this need—helping families manage asthma more effectively and keeping kids out of hospital.
“We urge all political parties to recognise the importance of this issue and commit to funding the Healthy Futures for Kids with Asthma program.”
Other asthma statistics on the Coast include: Wyoming 9.29%; OurimbahFountaindale 9.19%; TuggerahKangy Angy 8.66%; The Entrance 8.19%; ToukleyNorah Head 7.89; Wyong 7.86%; Niagara Park-Lisarow 7.67%; Narara 7.9%; Kariong 7.96%; Saratoga-Davistown 7.75%; Erina-Green Point 7.62%; Calga-Kulnura 7.54%; Woy Woy-Blackwall 7.06%; Kincumber-Picketts Valley 7.05%; Gosford-Springfield 6.92; and Point ClareKoolewong 6.43%.
Internationally renowned breast cancer specialist and radiation oncologist, Professor John Boyages, who is radiation oncologist at Icon Cancer Centre in Gosford, has released his latest book –Lymphoedema: Taking Control.
The comprehensive guide empowers patients and healthcare professionals with the latest insights on preventing, diagnosing and managing lymphoedema.
An honorary professor at Macquarie University, Boyages is also founding director of the
ALERT Lymphoedema Program and divides his time between Sydney and the Central Coast.
He has dedicated years of research and clinical expertise to helping patients understand breast cancer treatment and its complications, including lymphoedema.
With more than 40 years of experience, he brings worldclass expertise to patients diagnosed with breast cancer, often with the hidden challenges of lymphoedema.
From risk factors and early detection to treatment options and emotional wellbeing, Lymphoedema: Taking Control
is an essential guide for patients, caregivers, lymphoedema therapists and clinicians alike.
The plain-English comprehensive guide combines expert insight with evidence-based prevention, diagnosis, and long-term care strategies.
Also featured is the work of dedicated Central Coast-based occupational therapist Kate Perkins, who specialises in cancer rehabilitation and lymphoedema management.
“This is a valuable resource for both patients and practitioners – especially those
with her new rank as Second Officer Australian Air League Doyalson Girls Squadron.
Cadets Olivia Murray and Diana Paterson have progressed into their flying careers and are soon to hold their licence and the squadron has welcomed its youngest cadet, who is just eight years old.
Wing Captain Pam Price has been serving as a volunteer in the Air League for more than 35 years at Doyalson and in roles for the NSW Girls Groups.
She organises and hosts camps, excursions, flying experiences and educational activities.
Australian Air League Doyalson Girls Squadron is welcoming new cade
navigating or recovering from breast cancer treatment and at risk of developing lymphoedema symptoms,” she said.
“Knowing where to look for support is the first step.
“Understanding how to reduce and manage symptoms, and what to look out for, is powerful.
“John draws on the experience of experts in the field, as well as his own vast knowledge, to present the latest evidence-based information in a way that’s clear, practical, and easy to read.”
AI-powered scribing in 14 general practices in the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) will take part in an AI-Enabled General Practice Initiative.
This ground-breaking initiative, designed to integrate and test AI-powered scribing in general practice, aims to automate documentation, improve operational efficiency, and reduce administrative tasks for clinicians, ultimately enhancing primary care delivery.
The Ambient Scribe Pilot is the first phase of the AI-Enabled General Practice Initiative.
This phase introduces ambient scribe technology to selected general practices to assess its impact on clinician workload, patient experience, and service provision.
Selected for their diverse teams of general practitioners, 14 practices were selected via an Expression Of Interest process and will serve as flagship sites, setting new standards in both patient care and practice management.
“This initiative ultimately aims to establish a scalable framework for adoption of AI Scribing in general practice, supporting long-term sustainability and viability across the region,” HNECC PHN chief executive officer Richard Nankervis said.
“The selected practices will lead the way by sharing their experiences with other practices, showcasing the value of AI scribing, and serving as beacons of innovation.
“This initiative underscores the transformative potential of AI in healthcare,” Nankervis said.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Humpty Dumpty Foundation has sprung into action to help Central Coast Local Health District provide seven breast pumps for its midwifery and Aboriginal health services.
The Pumped For Life Mother’s Day Appeal aims to provide urgently needed, hospitalgrade breast pumps to hospitals and health services across Australia from now until May 12.
A Foundation spokesperson said a lack of access to hospital-grade breast pumps in neonatal clinics put newborns at risk, particularly premature or critically ill babies.
“For many new mothers, watching their baby fight for life in an isolated humidicrib is an unimaginable challenge,” she said.
“Expressing milk is one of the few things they can do to nurture and connect with their baby.
“Across Australia, almost one
in five babies require admission to Special Care Nursery or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the hospital.
“This is 17% of babies born who require specialised care.”
The spokesperson said a hospital-grade breast pump became vital when physical contact wasn’t possible, ensuring newborns received the essential nutrition and antibodies they needed to survive and thrive.
“Mother’s milk for premature babies is crucial to improve digestive function, reduce infection, improve brain and eye development and improve bonding between mother and baby.”
The Humpty Dumpty Foundation’s Pumped For Life appeal first launched for Mother’s Day in 2024 as a response to the urgent need to support new and nursing mums in every state and territory.
You can donate at www. humpty.org.au/pumpedforlife
Kelly Drover of Terrigal has been volunteering for Feel the Magic since 2016, after losing her 33-year-old husband in 2013 to cardiac arrest.
Their son James was only two at the time of his father’s sudden and unexpected death and has also become involved in fundraising activities over the years.
And now the mother and son are planning their biggest challenge yet as they head out in September to tackle the Kokoda Trek.
“James was only two when I lost my husband Matthew,” Drover said.
“Sadly, one in 20 Aussie kids experience the death of their mum or dad before they turn 18.
“To put this into perspective, there is most likely a child grieving the loss of a parent in every class at school.
“In addition to this, children also experience sibling and legal guardian loss.
“Studies also show that unresolved childhood grief increases the risk of suicide by six times.
“Feel the Magic is an
Australian charity providing early intervention grief education programs for kids aged seven to 18 who are experiencing pain and isolation due to the death of a parent, guardian, or sibling.
“Their aim is to create a
•
community where grieving kids and their families feel supported, empowered, and can begin to move forward with their lives.
“I trekked Kokoda in 2017 for Feel the Magic, and along with other fundraising endeavours James and I have undertaken, together we have raised $15,047 for the charity.”
In September Driver and James, 14, will fly out to Papua New Guinea to trek Kokoda.
“James will be giving up his school holidays and with me by his side will be completing an eight-day historical trek, trekking 124km, climbing 6,576m and descending 5,990m,” Drover said.
“We want to raise money to help the camps to continue and allow other grieving children to receive the support that James has.
“Our minimum goal is $20,000 but we’d love to raise
a lot more than that so we could fund a few extra camps and support even more children on their grief journey.”
James was recently a finalist in the Central Coast Youth Awards for the Community Service and Activity Category recognising his fundraising activities, beginning when he was eight and summited Mount Kosciusko to raise $4,270 for Feel the Magic. He has since completed numerous fundraising activities for Feel the Magic and other charities including Kids Cancer, Cystic Fibrosis Australia and Trek for Vets.
He also speaks at public events to promote Feel the Magic.
To donate to the Kokoda trek fundraiser go to kelly-andjames-kokoda-trekadventure.raiselysite.com/ and follow the mother and son on Facebook and Instagram (search James and Kelly).
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Email: lemery@lindaemery.com.au Web: www.lindaemery.com.au
Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford
Round 3 of the WLG Central Coast Rugby Union competition on Saturday, April 26, saw Premier 1 wins to Warnervale, Terrigal, the Razorbacks and Lake Macquarie.
Terrigal continued their winning ways with a 37-7 victory over beach rivals Avoca thanks to a clinical and dominant display.
Terrigal’s structure and control around the park proved too much, as they crossed for multiple well-constructed tries to secure a statement win.
The front row controlled proceedings in the earlier passages of the game, allowing Terrigal to expand their game in spades through the latter part of the fixture.
Jayden Woolley’s goal kicking ensured the hosts edged further away in the second half which saw them get home comfortably.
Josh Parish played his 50th
game for Avoca Beach and was the sole try scorer for the visitors in the clash.
Lake Macquarie delivered another blistering performance, running in a flurry of tries in a commanding 67-14 win over Gosford/Kariong. The tries were spread across
the park, reflecting their depth and attacking flair.
They continue to look dangerous as the season progresses.
Rameo Bainivalu managed to cross for his first hat-trick of the season.
Gosford showed late promise in the second half, but the
damage was done in the first 50 minutes of the match.
In a tight and hard-fought contest, Warnervale held off a spirited Woy Woy side to register their first win of the season with a 24-19 scoreline.
The match was a genuine tussle from start to finish, with momentum swinging both
ways, but Warnervale’s grit in the final stages saw them clinch a crucial five-point victory.
After two heavy defeats, the win should lift Warnervale’s spirits, while Woy Woy will look to return to a winning formula when they take on Avoca Beach next week at Woy Woy Oval.
The Razorbacks extended their unbeaten run with another powerful victory, brushing aside Northlakes/The Bay 46-5 to remain on top of the ladder.
Leading the charge once again was Jake Hubbard, who bagged another hat trick, cementing his place at the top of the Premier 1 try-scoring leaderboard after three rounds.
Northlakes/The Bay have had opportunities in the opening rounds but remain winless.
The team has the skill and creativity to turn their season around quickly.
Mia named one of state’s top two junior lifesavers
Mia Jamal of Avoca Beach
Surf Life Saving Club has been named as one of two 2025 NSW Junior Lifesavers of the Year, along with Max McDermott of Warriewood Surf Life Saving Club.
The accolades followed three days of team building and leadership development on Sydney’s Northern Beaches in April.
Despite the disruption, the Mariners showed trademark determination to come from behind and win in front of a vocal home crowd.
Canberra struck first just before half-time, with veteran striker Michelle Heyman finding the net in the 43rd minute, assisted by Sofia Christopherson. But the Mariners responded almost immediately after the half-time break.
The Central Coast Mariners women’s team has secured a place in the Ninja A-League Women’s semifinals after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Canberra United at Industree Group Stadium in Gosford on Monday evening, April 28. The match was originally set for Sunday afternoon but was pushed back to Monday evening and played in wet conditions following heavy rain.
A dangerous cross from Tiana Fuller caused chaos in the Canberra defence, and English import Jade Pennock was on hand to level the scores, slotting home a goal after a deflection.
With momentum building, the Mariners pressed for the lead.
The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Pennock unleashed a brilliant long-range strike, curling the ball past Canberra goalkeeper Sally James to spark celebrations around the stadium.
Canberra fought hard in the dying minutes, but the Mariners’ defence held strong through seven minutes of added time to seal the win.
Jade Pennock, who scored both goals, praised the team’s character after the match.
“It was a tough game, Canberra is a quality side, but we showed real spirit to come back and get the win in front of our home fans,” she said.
“That second goal was pretty special.”
The Mariners women will now face Melbourne City in a twolegged semi-final, with the first match to be played at home at Industree Group Stadium next Saturday, May 3.
Meanwhile, the Mariners men play the last game of their season against Brisbane Roar on Friday evening May 2, at home in Gosford.
The premiership-winning men’s team languish in 10th spot on the A-League ladder, well outside finals contention.
More than 100 athletes, coaches and managers from Central Coast Academy of Sport travelled to Tamworth to join the state’s most promising young talents at the 2025 Your Local Club Academy Games.
This year’s event from April 1113, organised by the Northern Inland Academy of Sport, marked the beginning of a threeyear tenure in Tamworth, with competitions held across multiple venues throughout the town.
More than 1,500 athletes participated from 11 regional sport academies across NSW.
Central Coast Academy of Sport (CCAS) stood out as a top performer, demonstrating exceptional talent and skill across all their squads despite facing tough competition.
Both the CCAS boys and girls basketball teams secured first place.
Logan Tupaea and Rasmus Borg were named in the All-Star
Five team for boys, and Zali Heffernan and Grace Garwood were named in the All-Star Five team for girls.
Ava Prince showcased her exceptional talent to take out first place in the girls golf competition.
Mia Harris from CCAS was named an MVP (most valuable player) for Division 1 netball, and
Ava Maher was named an MVP for Division 2 netball, highlighting their outstanding performances.
The CCAS hockey squad worked incredibly hard throughout the tournament, showcasing their dedication and effort.
Their perseverance and teamwork was evident and they gained valuable experience for future competitions.
The softball girls joined Sydney Southern Metro and CCAS boys teamed up with Hunter Academy of Sport,facing tough competition against regional counterparts.
Despite the challenges, both the boys and girls squads put in a great effort, showcasing their skills and determination throughout the tournament.
Thomas Rice secured second
place in the triathlon Youth Male category.
The CCAS triathlon team of Skye Dowey, Thomas Rice and Ezra Dowey finished third in the YouthTeam Event,demonstrating their strong performance and teamwork.
Full results from the tournament can be found on www. academygames.com.au.
Mia and Max were two in a group of 22 eager teenagers who came from each of the 11 branches across NSW, after each being acknowledged in their own regions as Junior Lifesavers of the Year.
“There’s a lot of thought going through my head, mainly excitement and pride,” Mia said of the award.
“I think I was even a little stressed beforehand but just super happy to be in this position.”
A reserved but clearly passionate and personable lifesaver, Mia impressed the panel of judges with her vision for more resources to support all abilities in engaging with surf life saving.
“I was really happy to get such great feedback; I just think it’s so important to build up the platform for people with disabilities and grow their confidence around the water,” she said.
“I’ve had friends, buddies in school who love the water and surf life saving and I just want to help them and everyone who might not be able to get everything they need.”
Junior lifesaver finalists engaged in a three-day team building and leadership development program at Collaroy, which culminated in Mia and Max being selected as the NSW Junior Lifesavers of the Year.
“Obviously at the start there’s a little bit of nerves, maybe some awkwardness, but that passed so quickly, and we all had so much fun,” Mia said.
Central Coast Waves Basketball won both categories at the first walking basketball tournament of the year, held at Niagara Park stadium on April 11.
The increasingly popular program saw nine teams taking part from as far away as the Illawarra.
Two categories were contested, over 60s and under60s, with an even mix of both men and women.
Basketball took out both categories.
Waves operations manager Matt Smith said the aim of the program was to open the sport to as many people as possible by making the competitiveness of the contest take precedence over the physical aspects of the traditional game.
“Days like this are extremely rewarding as our basketball club continues to build strength around community interaction and inclusion for all,” he said.
“To have over 120 participants
Wyong Race Club’s ongoing support for community charity partners recently led to a successful Charity Golf Day, held at Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club and Golf Course on February 28.
Organised by the Mountains and Valleys Community Race Club, the event raised more than $9,000 for the Iris Foundation which was recently named Outstanding Community Organisation at the 2024 Business Wyong Awards.
“The funds received today are amazing and will help us to deliver our programs, continuing to build strength within the community,”
Executive Chair Sue Liptrott said at the event.
Chairman of the Mountains and Valleys Community Race Club and Wyong Race Club
taking part in the tournament was great to see.
“The feedback has been overwhelming.
“We are looking forward to bringing the Waves Walking Basketball tournament back in April 2026.”
To find out more about participating in walking basketball contact Chris Collins (email c.collins@ wyongleagues.com.au) or go to the Central Coast Waves website: centralcoastwavesbasketball. com.au
Board Member, Pat Coen, presented the cheque.
“The Iris Foundation does a wonderful job in our community, dedicating so much time to
suicide prevention through early intervention,” he said.
“Sadly, it is such a widespread issue in our community, so it’s great to be able to assist.”
For more information about
the Iris Foundation, visit irisfoundation.org.au.
EMeanwhile, the rescheduled Chocfest Race Day on April 17 was a huge success.
Coinciding with Tradies Day,
the event saw a fantastic crowd pack the track, with kids diving into the fun through an Easter Hunt, Kids Fashion Parade and disco party.
“It was incredible to see so
many happy faces enjoying the day,” Wyong Race Club CEO Greg Purcell said.
“Events like Chocfest are a big part of how we connect with the community — and there’s no better way than through the laughter and excitement of children.
“Along with our Christmas at the Races, Chocfest is one of our most-loved events.”
The meeting also saw Wyong Race Club host its first Tradies Day, bringing together tradies from across the Coast for an afternoon of racing, catching up with mates, and connecting with industry peers — all while raising valuable funds for the day’s Charity Partner, MATES in Construction.
For upcoming race dates and corporate hospitality packages, head to wyongraceclub.com. au.
