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The Rime of the Ancient Mariner made famous the phrase “Water, water, everywhere”.
From the pipes beneath our streets to the sand dunes at our shoreline, water is shaping up to be one of the greatest challenges facing the Central Coast, and our Council.
consultation as “biased and manipulative,” with residents told the increase is a given and only feedback about paying even more would be considered.
unlock powers to act decisively.
That didn’t happen, but the Government HAS agreed to a meeting on May 15 between relevant Ministers and the Council CEO and Mayor.
unique in facing water-related pressures, but we are unusually vulnerable.
Our sprawling coastline, creeks, estuaries and lagoons make us both a water-rich and water-threatened region.
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Managing Editor: David Abrahams
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This week, two seemingly separate stories highlight how difficult managing the watery element has become for local government: the proposed 20% hike in water rates, and the coastal erosion emergency at Wamberal and The Entrance North.
On the one hand, residents are being asked to pay significantly more for their water services, up to 22% more in 2026–27, plus inflation, regardless of what they say in Council’s consultation process.
Long-time Council critic Kevin Brooks described the
Brooks also noted that water rates on the Central Coast have already risen by 51% over the past three years, without corresponding improvements in service.
Indeed, independent surveys show customer satisfaction is flatlining.
On the other hand, at the shifting shores of The Entrance North and Wamberal, rising seas and crumbling dunes are threatening homes and infrastructure.
In response, following an extraordinary meeting on May 6, Council called for the NSW Premier to declare a state of emergency, which would
The seeds of sustainability and community connection were planted on Friday, May 9, as local residents gathered for the opening of the new Mannering Park Community Garden located in the grounds outside Vales Point Power Station.
The event brought together volunteers from Mannering Park Community Garden Inc, staff from Delta Electricity and Bunnings Lake Haven, local school students and members of the community to celebrate the start of thes vibrant community initiative.
The garden will be a space for growing organic fruits and vegetables, and is designed to be inclusive and accessible for people of all ages and abilities. Adding a splash of green to the day, the community planted a new garden bed and enjoyed a gardening talk from a Bunnings Lake Haven horticulturalist, who shared tips on growing healthy organic produce, sparking ideas about the possibilities ahead for the space.
Mannering Park Community Garden Inc president Sue Wynn talked about the community’s vision for the garden.
“This garden is about more
than just growing food – it’s about creating a welcoming place where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can come together to learn, enjoy being outdoors and eat locally grown organic produce,” she said.
“We’re thrilled to have the support of Delta, Council and our local residents.
“Together, we’re building something really special.”
Community members are being encouraged to get involved by reaching out to Wynn on 0434 151 537 or Marie Brown on 0413 854 796 at Mannering Park Community Garden Inc.
“We are looking for new members and encourage anyone of any age or ability to join; it’s a great learning experience for the kids and whole family to enjoy,” Wynn said.
The garden was made possible by $13,600 in grants from Delta’s Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program which is a joint initiative between Delta, Central Coast Council and local communities to improve community infrastructure and services in Mannering Park, Chain Valley Bay, Gwandalan and Summerland Point.
Meanwhile, Council held a second extraordinary meeting on May 13, voting to put in place a plan allowing beachfront home owners to carry out emergency protection works without lodging a development application if Thursday’s meeting comes to naught.
The contrast is stark.
In one case, Council is asking households to dig deeper into their pockets for basic water services.
In the other, it’s grappling with a literal land loss emergency, without the legislative or financial backing needed to respond.
The Central Coast is not
It’s a complex challenge that stretches beyond the remit of local government alone.
This is where the State Government must step up, not just with approvals, but with expertise and financial backing.
Likewise, federal agencies should be engaged.
Whether it’s ensuring fair and transparent water pricing or defending our coastlines, the Central Coast deserves coordinated, well-funded solutions.
Because while water may be everywhere, accountability and real assistance still seem to be in short supply.
David Abrahams, Managing Editor
Delta Company Secretary Steve Gurney said the project reflected Delta’s ongoing commitment to local community partnerships.
“Delta has a long-standing relationship with the Mannering Park community and surrounding areas,” he said.
“We’re proud to support grassroots initiatives like this that promote sustainability, healthy living and inclusivity in our community.
“It’s also exciting to see this garden trialling recycled concrete made from ash from our power station – a great example of innovation meeting community needs.”
The Mannering Park Community Garden initiative joins the nearby Kingfisher Shores Community Garden, as part of a growing movement of sustainable, community-driven spaces in the local region.
Kathleen Anne Little
26.3.1930 - 8.5.2025
Aged 95
Kathleen passed peacefully with son Rod and daughter Vicki at her side, in Killarney Court Nursing Home. Beloved wife of Arthur (dec.), devoted mother and mother-inlaw to Vicki, Rod and Nicolette, grandmother to Jonathan, Cameron and Anna, sister and sister-in-law to Robert and Anne, and favourite aunt to Karen, David and Ian.
Principled, Caring, Creative, Faithful and Fun-loving, she will be loved and remembered by family and friends in Australia, England and Canada.
A Prayer Service will be held at Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Terrigal on Wednesday, 21st May, followed by private Cremation.
The NSW Government is investing $7M in a new Core and Cluster refuge by CatholicCare on the Central Coast, which will include up to 10 self-contained units, with at least one unit being wheelchair accessible.
The site will also feature a central hub with communal spaces to promote healing for women and children, pet friendly spaces, and private meeting rooms for the delivery of on-site support services.
Other features of the purposebuilt facility will include vegetable gardens, a children’s playground, a sensory garden and space for outdoor cultural activities.
The Core and Cluster model ensures privacy and independence for victims escaping domestic and family violence, with a central hub of services to support women and children recover and heal.
CatholicCare has more than 20 years of experience in delivering homelessness and
The annual Little Tern breeding season at Karagi Point, The Entrance North, concluded in February, with Central Coast Council reporting another recordbreaking outcome.
Little Terns migrate from South-east Asia to Australia each year to breed and have historically chosen to nest at The Entrance.
Protected under both state and federal threatened species legislation, Little Terns are sensitive to a wide range of threats, including native and introduced predators, crushing and disturbance from vehicles, humans and domestic dogs, inundation of nesting sites and adverse weather conditions.
Council’s Director Environment and Planning, Jamie Loader, said that with support from the community, Council worked hard to create the right
domestic violence services on the Central Coast and in surrounding areas.
It is committed to providing safe short-term accommodation while supporting people towards achieving more long-term, stable housing.
This is part of the government’s response to domestic and family violence that includes crisis response, justice reforms, earlier intervention and primary prevention.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson
said there was a need for more and better crisis accommodation for women and children fleeing violent situations and abusive relationships in NSW.
“This latest refuge on the Central Coast will offer women and children escaping violence a safe and secure place to stay, while also providing on-site support to help them heal from trauma and get back on their feet,” she said.
Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said it was critical that victim survivors of
domestic and family violence had a safe place to go.
“This refuge will be a muchneeded place of safety for women and children in our region fleeing violent homes and abusive relationships,” he said.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said the model not only provided a safe place for women to recover, but also ensured they were supported as they healed and rebuilt their lives.
Executive Director of
CatholicCare Diocese of Broken Bay Tim Curran said the Central Coast had one of the highest rates of domestic and family violence in the state, highlighting an urgent need for safe crisis accommodation.
“To address this, the innovative Core and Cluster design offers brand-new independent units, moving away from traditional shared refuge spaces,” he said.
“This model allows women and children to retain their dignity and privacy during a difficult time.
environment for nesting and ongoing breeding success and put in place a range of measures to protect the colony.
“Over the past five years, Council has carried out best practice management to protect the Little Tern breeding colony, which has included fencing and signage installation, mitigating the threat of human disturbance and nest site inundation, nest monitoring, fox and avian predator control, environmental education, community engagement and site closures during large events,” he said.
“It is so satisfying to see that these actions have once again resulted in record-breaking breeding success with an incredible 228 fledglings recorded – the most ever recorded along the NSW coast and nearly half of the total NSW fledgling count last season.”
Monitoring over the past five years has now shown Karagi
Point to be the most important nest site in the state and is significantly contributing to the long-term survival of the species.
“In consultation with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Council staff were well prepared ahead of the breeding season – a key to the success achieved,” Loader said.
However despite the success seen, a range of unauthorised activities were still observed at the nest site.
“This included large amounts of rubbish being left on site, discarded fishing line, people entering the fenced nesting area, unnecessary noise, flying of drones over the area and the presence of dogs – which are actually prohibited at Karagi Point,” Loader said.
“We will continue to work with our partners to look at what more we can do for the next season.”
NPWS Threatened Species
Project Officer Katherine Howard said as most beach-nesting birds were threatened and declining, it was very encouraging to see the Little Tern starting to recover in NSW.
“We could not be happier with the results at Karagi Point this past season, which was the most successful breeding season ever recorded in NSW,” she said.
“These incredible numbers would not be possible without the unwavering dedication of Central Coast Council, with support from the NSW Government’s Saving our Species program, NPWS and the Conservation Programs, Heritage and Regulations team, and most importantly, from the
“Onsite support services are available, ensuring that living spaces remain private while offering assistance with rapid rehousing and recovery, helping families heal more quickly and effectively.”
The government has invested $426.6M over four years in the Core and Cluster program, which provides women and children fleeing violence with crisis accommodation and onsite support services.
More than an additional 2,900 victim-survivors of domestic violence will be supported through this program each year.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.
local community and beach users.”
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the region was lucky the birds had chosen North Entrance as a breeding site.
“Beach-nesting birds like the Little Tern lay eggs directly on the sand, and eggs and chicks are so well-camouflaged they are almost invisible,” he said.
“So, this record-breaking breeding success is testament to the significant work Council and the NSW government agencies have done.
“I want to thank the community for being respectful of the nesting site.
“It is my hope that together we can protect this endangered species long-term.”
Find out more on the Little Terns and how to help protect them by visiting centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/littleterns
Councillor Jane Smith will conduct a community workshop on Sunday, May 18, to discuss important Central Coast Council documents now on public exhibition.
Smith stressed that this was not an official Council event, but was aimed at encouraging community engagement and would be run in partnership with the community.
It will be held from 2pm-4pm at Peninsula Community Centre, 93 McMasters Rd, Woy Woy.
The documents to be considered, all on exhibition until June 2, are: Community Strategic Plan – a 10-year plan that outlines the community’s vision and priorities; Delivery Program and Operational Plan – Council’s priorities, actions, and budget for the next four years; Fees and Charges – to be charged in 2025-26;
Workforce Management Strategy – four-year strategy; Long-term Financial Management Plan – 10-year financial projection; and Asset Management Strategy – 10year strategy.
They can be found at www. yourvoiceourcoast.com/plan ning-our-future-2025-2035
A number of community groups will speak briefly (5-10 minutes) about the documents
they have looked at and any concerns they have.
The workshop will then be open for general discussion at different tables – looking at the various documents.
“My goal is that community members/groups go away with a better understanding of the role of these documents, some ideas about issues they support or disagree with and some points that they might want to
include in a submission,” Smith said.
The workshop will begin at 2pm with a welcome and outline from Smith, followed by presentations until 3pm.
Following a short break, the general discussion will be conducted at various stations.
The workshop is free but registrations are essential at events.humanitix.com/ community-workshop-haveyour-say-ipr
Central Coast Council is joining forces with NSW Police to tackle speeding on local roads and increase safety in residential areas throughout May.
The focus is on improving safety in 50km/h and 60km/h zones – areas where children, older adults, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are often present.
Speeding continues to be the primary contributing factor in fatal crashes across the Central Coast.
NSW Police Acting Inspector, Brendan Gregory said that while local streets may feel safer and familiar, they are no place for complacency behind the wheel.
“We want to remind the Central Coast community and
Fishers on the Central Coast are doing their bit to keep the ocean safe for pods of whales set to migrate north through our waters in coming months.
Mitch Sanders said he had been around the ocean his whole life.
“My dad was a recreational fisher, and I grew up fishing with him – joining local comps, hanging around fishing clubs, even working in seafood shops,” Sanders said.
“Eventually I got my own licence.
“I’ve been at this for over 30 years and I’ve been a part of OceanWatch Australia’s program since the beginning.
“We know there are concerns with commercial fishing and the impact it has on our marine life.
visitors to slow down and take care on local roads,” he said.
“Even a few kilometres over the limit can be the difference between a near miss and a serious crash.
“Police will be out in full force across the Central Coast throughout May, targeting speeding motorists and encouraging safer driving behaviour – especially in areas where people walk, ride and live.”
Every K Counts and Stop it … or cop it – that’s the clear message from Police and Council, reminding drivers that slowing down can save lives.
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said Council was taking a targeted approach and reinforcing safe driving habits to help drivers make better choices.
“Council is working in partnership with NSW Police and Transport for NSW, under the Local Government Road Safety Program, to improve safety on Central Coast roads,” he said.
“Every kilometre over the limit increases both your stopping distance and your risk of a crash.
“We want to see everyone in our community make it home safely – every trip, every time.”
The initiative includes heightened police presence on local roads and the delivery of educational messages to residents and visitors across the Central Coast.
For more information on Council’s road safety initiatives and projects, search ‘road safety’ at centralcoast.nsw. gov.au
“We don’t want to see whales entangled.
“This is a particular concern during whale migration season … so we’re prepared to do everything we can to help try to reduce the risk.”
Sanders said OceanWatch workshops were a great way to bounce around ideas with other fishers and government.
“We’ve made a lot of changes in how we operate, and it’s important we continue to trial new methods and gear,” he said.
“We’ve switched to gear that’s designed to break free if it gets caught.
“I use lighter ropes that sit at the top of my gear near the float so if a whale gets tangled, it breaks off and the whale swims free.
“We also changed the shape
Two new district-level playspaces are on the way, with construction progressing at Tuggerawong Rd and works at Illoura Reserve in Davistown scheduled to follow.
Commencement of works follows the recent completion and opening of the new Picnic Point playspace at The Entrance.
Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said playspaces were always a welcome addition to local communities, providing safe, vibrant spaces for children of all ages to enjoy.
of our floats and made them football shaped.”
Sanders said he had a close call a few seasons ago when a whale was briefly caught on a rope.
“But because of the shape of the float and how it was rigged, it popped out right behind its fin
and the whale swam off,” he said.
“The trap stayed in place, completely intact.
“While we want to see the incidents of whale entanglement decrease, progress with this type of
equipment is definitely a step in the right direction.
“We’re also trying things like single floats, ropes that sink in a U-shape and negatively buoyant ropes.”
Sanders said Ocean Watch had helped fishers get permits from the NSW Department of Primary Industries to be able to use galvanic time releases (GTI), which previously haven’t been permitted for fisheries.
“GTRs release fishing gear at a set time, minimising the time they remain in the water and reducing the potential for whales to become entangled,” he said.
“At the end of the day, none of us want to harm the animals we share the ocean with.
“We want to keep fishing, but we want to do it the right way.
“This financial year, the community will see Council’s investment in the renewal of 10 local-level playspaces, two fitness equipment parks and one nature playspace – as well as the development of districtlevel playspaces at Picnic Point, Davistown and Tuggerawong,” she said.
Smith also confirmed that a new toilet amenity block would be constructed at the Tuggerawong playspace in the 2025/26 financial year.
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the designs of the three playspaces, including the recently opened park at The Entrance, reflected the community’s aspirations, vision and priorities.
“I was at the opening of the Picnic Point playspace and saw first-hand the joy and delight of children enjoying the new play equipment,” he said.
“It is pleasing to see that community feedback informed
the overall design and choice of equipment, meeting the needs of local families.
“Council is committed to continuing to deliver these important community assets,
shaped by input from the very people who will use them.”
Construction commenced in April on the new district-level playspace on the vacant lot formerly occupied by the Tuggerawong Community Hall.
The playspace will feature swing sets, including a pendulum swing, slides, a multi-level climbing structure, nature play and a mouse house.
It is expected to be completed this month (May) at a cost of $330,000, funded by Council.
Construction of a new playspace at Illoura Reserve, Davistown, is scheduled to commence soon to replace the existing playspace with a new, fully fenced area featuring
“Programs like this help us to do that,” Sanders said.
OceanWatch Australia is urging more fishers to join its innovative program aimed at reducing the risk of whale entanglements.
Run in partnership with the fishing industry and federal and state governments, the program trials practical fishing gear modifications to make waters safer during the peak migration period.
OceanWatch Australia is already working with 81 fishers across the coast to trial 15 gear alternatives.
But with no one-size-fits-all solution, more participation is crucial to ensuring the program’s success and adaptability across diverse fishing operations.
For more information email OceanWatch@decpr.com.au
traditional play equipment, including swing sets, slides, a pirate ship climbing structure, a rock and net climbing structure, a flying fox and shade.
The project is funded by the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Community Fund ($311,000) in association with Villages Community Group ($18,000).
Both playspaces will deliver enhanced recreational and accessibility features, promoting healthy, active lifestyles for the local and wider community.
For more information, search ‘playspace renewals 2024-25’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Uniting NSW.ACT will partner with local community organisations to host the Central Coast Homelessness Day in Gosford on Thursday, May 15.
Homelessness is a critical issue affecting people across Australia and specifically the Central Coast.
The region has been identified as one of the country’s toughest places to find stable housing.
About 23% of all people experiencing homelessness in Australia are 12-24 years of age and 19,378 people aged 55 years and over have experienced homelessness, according to the latest Census in 2021.
Uniting runs two programs supporting people who are experiencing homelessness on the Central Coast; one for
young people aged 16-24; and the Housing Connector program for anyone who is over the age of 25.
The programs help people find ongoing and appropriate housing and access to wraparound services such as mental health treatment and services to help them avoid becoming homeless in the first instance.
They offer information, advice and referrals to people who are experiencing homelessness on the Central Coast.
There is a hub in Wyong where people can drop in and use the services available.
Juliette Kratochvil, Youth Caseworker/Community Engagement at Uniting NSW. ACT’s Doorways program on the Central Coast says homelessness is on the rise in the region.
“Safe, affordable housing is the cornerstone for a people to live a good life and reach their potential,” she said.
“Our event supports people who are at risk or who are homeless with information, advice and referrals.
options, they were at risk of falling between the gaps and not accessing crucial housing and other support services.
“We need more local services here on the Central Coast so every young person seeking housing assistance can receive the help they need, while increasing targeted early intervention so we can reduce the number of young people experiencing homelessness over time.”
The community event is led by Uniting Doorways on the Central Coast with support from Bungree Aboriginal Corporation, St Vincent de Paul, Central Coast Tenants Advice, Central Coast LHD and Central Coast Council.
Charlie Chubb, Head of Northern and Western NSW Communities at Uniting NSW. ACT said when people had limited or poor-quality housing
“This event is here to provide a ‘one stop shop’ to gain support and access services including Services Australia, ID support, Health Hub including immunisations, homelessness services, domestic and family violence support, neighbourhood centres, mental health support, and NDIS information.”
The Gosford Homelessness Event will take place from 10am-2pm on Thursday, May 15, at Gosford Showground.
Nestled within Tuggerah Business Park lies Wyong Community Corrections, a space few Coasties know exists.
However, quietly working behind the scenes are those dedicated to the not-so-tiny task of rehabilitating offenders.
David Dallinger and Emma Roberts are two of the team’s stellar Community Corrections Officers whose work supervising offenders on courtbased orders, including parole, mostly goes unseen but is paramount to keeping the Central Coast community safe.
Dallinger, aged 46, left a career as a disability support worker, as well as 20 years in instrumental music education, for his current gig which is all about helping offenders to reintegrate safely into the community and be prepared for life after supervision.
“During my time with Corrective Services NSW, I’ve discovered that no-one in the community seems to know what we do, just as I had no idea before I started working here in 2021,” Dallinger said.
“Yet we’re responsible for supervising around 35,000 offenders in NSW who are
Louise Sawilejskij of Umina Beach has received the Community Engagement Award at the 2025 AAM Awards conducted by the Association of Artist Managers.
The AAM Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of Australian artist managers, spotlighting the global impact, dedication and passion of those driving the success of Australian talent, both at home and abroad.
Sawilejskij has spent more than 12 years championing live music, festivals and artist growth.
As a fierce advocate for gender and cultural diversity, she has worked diligently to build a thriving and inclusive scene across the Central Coast.
She was the General Manager of The Rhythm Hut from 2013 to 2018 and has played a key role at Central Coast Music & Arts, currently as the Executive Director.
In 2018 Sawilejskij established Nala Music, specialising in roots and world music and working with names such as Tijuana Cartel, Declan Kelly, Rhythm Hunters, Rem Stone and The Melbourne Ska Orchestra.
serving community-based court orders, including parole, which includes reporting to one of 58 Community Corrections offices across the state.
“While supervising offenders, we link them with services to address things like dependency issues or ill mental health, all while helping them to develop the skills and insights to navigate their lives in a safer way – I love the psychological and intellectual wrestle that comes with challenging offender attitudes.
“Success is ultimately when an offender completes their order and never comes back, but day to day it can be as small as an offender attending the office on time, providing a clean drug test, managing to complete an interview without storming out, or walking away from an argument without resorting to violence – it’s as
varied as our offenders themselves.”
Dallinger and Roberts are among 10,500 Corrective Services NSW staff being celebrated on National Corrections Day (NCD), Friday, May 16, for their commitment to community safety and reducing reoffending.
NCD takes the community behind the prison walls and Community Corrections office doors to hear the stories of staff and learn about the important work they do, which mostly goes unseen.
Roberts, 36, joined Corrective Services NSW after working in child protection and has never looked back.
“I have met some wonderful people who have been down on their luck and have persevered through adversity and it is heart-warming when I get to
“I’m very honoured to receive this award,” she said.
“The Central Coast has an incredibly talented and fast
see them finish their orders,” she said.
“Some of our clients have never had anyone in their corner, and it’s amazing to see those who commit to their supervision and the programs run by Corrective Services, and how they change the old,
growing music and arts community.
“Doing what I love by working in the music industry is such a dream and indeed lots of fun, but working with the community is really what drives me.
“I am also so excited for some of the projects Central Coast Music & Arts are set to deliver in the coming 12 months.
“Watch this space.”
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said Sawilejskij’s passion, persistence and contribution to the music and arts scene had made a profound
dysfunctional behaviours that would get them into trouble.
“There’s often public outcry when an offender is released on parole, however it’s incredibly important in supporting them to reintegrate into society and reducing their risk of reoffending.”
To mark National Corrections Day, prisons and community corrections offices around the state will host celebratory events, including morning teas, barbecues, and staff awards ceremonies, to honour the contributions of correctional staff.
The Corrective Services NSW workforce includes about 5,300 custodial officers working in prisons, 2,100 Community Corrections staff supervising offenders in the community, and more than 3,000 psychologists, programs, education, industries, and corporate professionals.
impact on the Central Coast and beyond.
“The Central Coast has always had a creative heartbeat, and Louise’s work is a shining example of what the Coast is capable of,” she said.
“The Minns Labor Government will continue to support the arts and investing in local creatives, ensuring passionate individuals like Louise have the opportunities to flourish.” More information of the awards and winners can be found at www.aam.org. au/2025aamawards.
A service was held at the Ourimbah Wall of Remembrance on Monday, April 28, to mark International Workers Memorial Day.
Member for The Entrance David Mehan said family and friends paused to reflect on the loved ones lost due to workplace death or occupational illness whilst at work.
“The service provides an opportunity for our community to remember those we have lost, but also reminds us to recognise the importance of work, health and safety conditions in our workplaces and that we can always do better,” Mehan said.
“Residents who have lost a loved one because of work are welcome to have that person’s name recorded on this wall, to honour their work and remind us of the loss to our community and can contact my office for this to be arranged,” Mehan said.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
The new Marine Rescue NSW base at Point Clare has been officially opened and will now be known as Marine Rescue Brisbane Water.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch joined Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW) Commissioner Alex Barrell to officially open the new $3.36M facility, which was funded by the NSW Government.
“It is important that the dedicated volunteers here at Marine Rescue Brisbane Water have a state-of-the-art facility to continue their vital lifesaving work on local waterways,” Tesch said.
“This impressive new facility means members now have an operations base specifically designed to support them in their vital work of keeping watch over the local boating community.
“The NSW Government is proud to support Marine Rescue NSW volunteers by providing them with the facilities they need to deliver lifesaving services to the state’s boating community.”
The new 600sqm base stands on the same site as the previous facility, which was no longer fit for purpose.
The two-storey building features training and meeting areas, a crew readiness room, radio and communications
areas, offices and storage.
It can also serve as a command centre during multiagency operations.
Commissioner Barrell said the project was delivered on time and within budget by familyowned,NSW-based construction company Cowyn Building Group.
“Communication between the builder, Marine Rescue NSW and volunteers here at Brisbane Water was seamless, leading to an optimal outcome for the unit,” he said.
“This unit was the fifth busiest of our 46 across the state in 2024, with volunteers completing 240 search and rescue missions, including 43 emergency responses, safely
returning 538 people to shore.
“Already this year, volunteers at the unit have performed more than 100 missions.
“Brisbane Water and the surrounding waterways are busy all year round, and the volunteers here are rescueready 24/7.
“Their dedication and commitment to local boaters and paddlers is greatly appreciated, and I thank them for their service.
“The unit’s name has been changed to reflect the area’s beautiful waters and to ensure that all five Marine Rescue NSW units in the Central Coast local government area have their own clear identity.”
Marine Rescue Brisbane Water Unit Commander Ian Morrow said he had been looking forward to the opening since plans for a new base were first discussed eight years ago.
“Our new name and new base are both warmly welcomed by the 142 volunteers at the unit, and I am confident the local community will embrace Marine Rescue Brisbane Water just as they did our former name,” he said.
“I hope this new facility leads to increased volunteer enquiries.
“We are always looking to recruit vessel crew, radio operators and fundraisers to support our mission of saving lives on the water.
“After working out of a temporary facility for nine months,
we are delighted to now be operating and training from our new home.
“Our members have shown incredible patience and dedication during the transition and construction period.
“This new facility is better integrated into our existing infrastructure, with easy access to the jetty allowing for rapid rescue response.
“The state-of-the-art training area is crucial to ensuring our volunteers remain rescue-ready.”
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
From page 1
“The motion includes some significant thresholds to be reached before issuing orders under Section 124, and the individual circumstances of each property and the proposed solution need to be assessed,” Farmer said.
“Additionally, the combined impact of works in a location needs to be assessed before giving any orders.
“Council will ensure expert advice is considered before taking any action.”
Wamberal Protection Association president Chris Rogers said immediately after the meeting that it was the right decision for the safety of the whole community.
But the decision doesn’t allow any emergency works to proceed just yet.
There is a process to follow.
First, Council will wait until the meeting on Thursday before acting on the adopted motion so it can pursue a unified response and clarify responsibilities and support from the State Government.
Despite that, CEO David Farmer has been given the direction to “immediately” commence engagement of suitably qualified professional
experts including a structural engineer and a coastal engineer.
Farmer said not much would happen before the 9am meeting on Thursday.
The suitably qualified experts, once engaged, will undertake assessments of impacted properties and identify any that may be subject to imminent structural failure or pose risk to human life now or in the event of further coastal erosion.
These experts will recommend any temporary emergency protection works.
Then the CEO will consider giving “appropriate orders” under a section of the Local Government Act (s124) for
emergency coastal protection work.
But those works would only be ordered if a series of conditions were met, including that the proposed works were in accordance with expert advice and not likely to adversely impact other properties.
Also included in the conditions were some legal parameters such as “Where the proposed works extend to other land that is not the subject of an associated s124 notice, the owner of the other land has provided an irrevocable authority in writing to the owner of the property to be protected to carry out the proposed works on the other land”.
Farmer made it clear during the meeting that the work on private property would be done at the cost of the landowners.
The gallery included rowdy supporters of the WPA and Wamberal Save Our Sand (SOS).
When one group applauded a councillor comment or speech, the other side was quiet and visa versa.
Some residents were quite vocal in giving councillors unsolicited advice with Mayor Lawrie McKinna, who chaired the meeting, asking for silence at least once.
All the procedural votes and the main decision at the meeting fell 8-7 or 7- 8 as has become common for most contentious
issues faced by this Council since the 15 councillors were elected in September 2024..
The eight are made up of Liberal and Team Central Coast councillors and the seven are Labor councillors and two independents.
Labor’s Councillor Belinda Neal put up an amendment to wait until after Thursday’s meeting before any decisions were made but she didn’t get the numbers.
Councillor Jane Smith talked about the cost of paying the experts who would do the assessing.
The money will come from the CEO’s special projects budget, referred to by Smith as the CEO “slush fund” before she corrected herself.
The Council agreed that up to $50,000 could be spent from the $95,000 in the fund.
Councillor Corinne Lamont wanted a way to give the public some information about the legal advice Council had been given on the issue.
Smith said the motion flew in the face of good advice that had been provided to councillors.
It was revealed during the meeting that councillors had attended a two and a half hour briefing on Monday night.
Staff attending the Tuesday meeting included three from Council’s Governance Unit, one if them a solicitor.
In speaking to the motion before the final vote was taken, Councillor Trent McWaide said it was about safety and he mentioned the “clear and imminent threat” coming.
He was referring to information in the report tabled at the meeting.
“The current predictions indicate that the highest tides of the year will occur from 25 – 29 May 2025,” the report said.
“If these high tides correspond with large easterly swells, there may be a significant risk to coastal erosion areas considering the current vulnerable state of these locations.
“Swell forecasts will be monitored over the coming months to assess the risk of erosion impacts on the Central Coast beaches.”
The extraordinary meeting followed one the previous Tuesday, May 6, where the councillors called on the NSW Premier to call a state of emergency for all Central Coast beaches.
Local community champion Dianne Greening has been recognised as The Entrance Senior of the Year for 2025 in honour of her outstanding dedication to volunteer service.
Greening has been a tireless volunteer across multiple community initiatives, including working as a Justice of the Peace, being an active member of a Probus group and acting as a dedicated police volunteer.
But it is her contribution to Parkrun that has left a lasting impact on the community.
With an impressive 184 volunteer appearances at Parkrun, Greening has donated hundreds of hours of her time to ensuring the much-loved community event continues to thrive.
Her efforts have helped create an inclusive and welcoming space for the hundreds of people who attend each week, fostering fitness, social interaction and community spirit.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
While 3,187kms separate Gwandalan and Nubuyanitu in Fiji, a remarkable charity drive that saw a shipping container loaded with 6,500kg of pre-loved goods delivered to Nubuyanitu’s school has resulted in ties that are closer than ever before.
Led by Lions Club of Gwandalan Inc, the project was the brainchild of Jade Mifsud and her husband Atu Katonitabua, who spent some of his early life in Nubuyanitu.
Their connections in Fiji had conveyed just how povertystricken and in need Bainimarama Vatutoko School and the local area was and how the most basic essentials would be completely transformative.
Based in Gwandalan, Jade and Atu were already connected to the local Lions Club via Jade’s sister Jackie, who is a Lions member.
A casual conversation between the trio with the club’s secretary Michelle Terry was the impetus for Jade, Atu and Atu’s cousin Manoa to join the Lions and with the practical know-how and commitment of the Club, bring the shipping container project to life.
“Our connections in the area, through family and friends, told us that Bainimarama Vatutoko School was in great need of basic supplies,” Jade said.
“As a Lions member, I knew we could come together to achieve something greater than the sum of its parts.”
Lions Club of Gwandalan Inc President Charlie Claxton was thrilled with the level of buy-in and commitment from the Club and community.
“It was definitely a mission, with many challenges and details, but I knew it was something we could achieve, and it fit with our remit to not just look after those around us,
but also those in need overseas,” he said.
The project was 15 months from conception to delivery, beset with administrative hurdles, exporting and importing challenges and broken-down vehicles.
The top end of the Central Coast moved fast, and the container was quickly filled with generous donations: clothes, shoes, linen, laptops for the teachers, two TVs, two overhead projectors, medical supplies, ladders, fishing gear, school supplies, whiteboards, a defib machine, an array of footballs, soccer, tennis and basketballs, sports equipment and much, much more.
A ride-on mower to keep the school’s football field trim, and a saddle for the Head of School to ride his horse to school on also made it inside.
Jade, Charlie and Manoa managed the transportation of the container Fiji-side from the port to the village: a nail-biting journey that involved a 24-hour waiting game with Customs in a bid to prevent them from having the arduous, if not impossible, task of completely unpacking the container to be searched, and repacked for the truck to Nubuyanitu.
They got the all clear to go ahead, then the truck to Nubuyanitu broke down.
“That is a whole other story
that is just too anxiety-inducing to relive,” Charlie said.
The container arrived on June 7, 2024, to bright sunshine and an audience of elated, excited and joyous students, parents, teachers and locals.
“Even the smallest item, such as a football, or a pair of soccer boots, brought so much joy to these kids,” Jade said.
“They were overwhelmed and so grateful for it.
“We too felt the same joy.”
Over the course of the next few days, the Lions were drowned in thank yous, warm smiles, generosity and kindness for all involved in the project.
The Lions on the ground saw just how lacking the school environment was – the floor of the shower in the girls’ school dorm is collapsing, there’s an urgent need for an incinerator and the village area is heavily flood prone and the school grounds and village would seriously benefit from drainage. They’re big projects.
For now, the Lions of Gwandalan have retired to their sheds, brainstorming what is possible for the future.
Nicola Riches
Dancing In the Shadows of Motown returns to The Art House, Wyong, by popular demand at 2pm on Sunday, June 1.
The 10-piece powerhouse
band features internationally acclaimed artists who faithfully recreate the dynamic live performances of The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye,
Martha and The Vandellas, The Four Tops, The Jackson Five, and many more Motown legends.
Audiences will enjoy classic hits including: Reach Out, Stop
In The Name Of Love, Ain’t Too Proud To Beg, Heatwave, Get Ready, I Heard It Through the Grapevine, Dancing in The Streets, Uptight, Signed Sealed Delivered, You Can’t Hurry
Love, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Standing On Shaky Ground, My Girl, and Can You Feel.
The dynamic all-singing alldancing band has performed at
Central Coast couple David and Tracey Hambly are making waves in the independent film world, having recently wrapped filming on Echo 8 Beyond, the latest feature from award-winning Western Sydney filmmaker Maria Tran.
The couple was part of a diverse cast and crew of more than 200 people involved in the ambitious production, which was filmed across more than 20 locations in Western Sydney. With a combined budget of just $50,000 for both Echo 8 Beyond and its prequel Five By Five, the film is being hailed as a landmark achievement in ultra-low-budget Australian filmmaking.
The project marks a major milestone for the Hamblys, who have built their creative careers later in life, all from their home base on the Central Coast.
Tracey Hambly began her acting journey in her late 50s, proving that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Now in her 60s, she has appeared in major Australian productions including Last King of the Cross and ABC’s Total Control, but Echo 8 Beyond marks one of her most significant roles to date.
“It was both fun and challenging, and a fantastic learning experience,” she said.
“Everyone was supportive and encouraging and I’d jump
at the chance to work with the team again.”
Her husband, David Hambly, brings his own remarkable story to the screen.
Friday 20 June
Masquerades and Melodies is a must-see event for any musical theatre lover!
After a motorcycle accident ended his long-time career in the prison and security sector, he turned to the arts.
Since then, he’s written for local newspapers, supported
community film projects, and even landed a role in Thor: Love and Thunder, appearing alongside Russell Crowe and Chris Hemsworth.
“This film had no egos, just a
passionate team from all walks of life,” he said.
“It wasn’t about money or prestige.
“It was about proving what’s possible when a community of creatives comes together.”
Known across the Central Coast for their creative involvement and love for storytelling, the Hamblys are passionate about supporting community-driven film and television, particularly those with inclusive, diverse voices.
Echo 8 Beyond is currently in post-production, with a crowdfunding campaign launching this month to support music, editing, and marketing. The film is slated for worldwide release in December.
After a sell-out debut festival in Newcastle in 2021, Naturellement is coming to the Central Coast on May 17-18.
The two-day event showcasing the best artisan, natural, organic and smallbatch drinks producers, local food purveyors and awardwinning Aussie chefs is headed to the quirky Galleria Ettalong Beach.
The festival, which aims to redefine how to experience food and drinks, is the brainchild of drinks guru and P&V Merchants’ owner Mike Bennie and founder of we are neighbourgood events and experiences Kristy Austin –both Central Coast residents.
Bennie has brought together more than 30 of the most exciting producers from the Central Coast, NSW and further afield, including SABI-WABI, Majama Wines, Harkham, Ten Minutes by Tractor, Jilly Wine Co, and Meredith by Mem, to offer tastings of more than 120 wines, beers, spirits and nonalcoholic drinks, as well as meet and greets with those championing the ethos of sustainability, creativity and regional identity.
Sydney-based importers
Giorgio de Maria and Andrew Guard will also be showcasing their array of drops.
The festival’s culinary program is just as heavyhitting, thanks to Austin’s 20year career in food programming, including senior roles at Nine’s Good Food Events, Margaret River Gourmet Escape and on the Australasian Taste brand.
Renowned Aussie chefs and sustainability advocates Alanna Sapwell-Stone (The Eltham Hotel) and Matt Stone (Ciao Mate, You Beauty), as well as the acclaimed Jake Kellie of flame-fuelled Adelaide restaurant Arkhe, will all be on the tools.
Kellie, the former head chef at Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurant Burnt Ends, will bring the thrill of fire and his award-winning food back to his hometown.
They’ll be collaborating with Central Coast culinary legends
Nico Coccia (El Bulli), John Ralley (Textbook Patisserie), Cameron Cansdell (Saddles Mount White), Joshua Mason (Atelier Crenn) and many more, as well as Merimbula’s Ash Cotter (Valentina) and Ryde Pennefather (Bar Superette), to create a series of one-off
dishes, with the full menu and line-up to be announced shortly.
Austin and Bennie teamed up about five years ago to create a touring festival that would highlight the great things smaller, low or no intervention producers were doing, and shine a spotlight on different regional areas.
“We sold out the first Naturellement in Newcastle in 2021, but unfortunately due to
continuing COVID lockdowns, we had to press pause,” Austin said.
“We’re so excited to be back and embarking on the next stop of our regional tour.
“The Central Coast is a special place for both of us, as it’s where we both now call home.”
Bennie, whose wine writing credentials include the James Halliday Wine Companion, Winefront and the magazine
delicious, said Naturellement wasn’t a typical wine festival.
“This is a celebration of NSW and the ACT’s artisan, boutique and avant garde producers,” he said.
“It’s also an opportunity to introduce Australians, particularly those in our large cities like Sydney and Melbourne, to regional centres like the Central Coast.
“They have a bounty of incredible food, wine, beer
spirits and non-alcoholic drinks on offer, so why shouldn’t there be a festival that showcases and shares it with the rest of the country?”
As well as the plethora of food and drinks on offer, there will also be an educational element.
A series of fun-filled masterclasses will cover everything from introductory wine education to Amber and Orange Wine 101, Lambrusco tastings and a Wild Food Wild Wine session with Bennie and Ralley.
The Good Farm Shop’s Matilda Brown and Scott Gooding (My Kitchen Rules) will also headline a dedicated talks program, featuring inspiring conversations with local farmers, producers and wild food cooks and foragers on sustainability, regenerative farming and the future of Australia’s food scene.
Visit events.humanitix.com/ naturellement-a-festival-ofdrinks for more information and to book tickets.
The region’s biggest celebration of all things pop culture returns as Central Coast Comicon 2025 takes over The Entertainment Grounds in Gosford this Saturday, May 17, with a jam-packed day of fun for fans of all ages.
The vibrant, all-inclusive event is set to transform
Gosford into a playground for superheroes, sci-fi fans, gamers, cosplayers, comic lovers and pop culture enthusiasts alike. With the majority of entertainment and attractions included in the ticket price, it’s the ultimate family-friendly experience that brings imagination to life.
The day will include celebrity guests, Q&A panels, game shows, cosplay, costumes, comics, Anime, Star Wars lightsaber lessons, Lego displays and workshops, a medieval battle re-enactment, video gaming, virtual reality, tabletop games, circus shows and workshops, merchandise and live music.
MARK VINCENT, THE BEST SO FAR: LAYCOCK STREET COMMUNITY THEATRE 2PM
Ethan Beckton: Gosford RSL Club 3pm
Ed Kuepper - Solo: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm
Jason Hicks: Gosford RSL Club 5.30pm
Author Talk: Sara Powter: Toukley Library 11am
David Bowie Tribute - The Man Who Souled The World: Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm
Preparing Ground: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm
Kings of Country Rock: Laycock Street Community Theatre 7.30pm
WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION: WOY WOY LITTLE THEATRE to 25 May *
Tom Hutchin: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm
Rock N Roll: Birthdays And Beers: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm
Gemma Glendenning: Davistown RSL Club 6.30pm
Alpha Wolf ‘Terrible Days Across Australia’: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 7.30pm
Comicon Game Show: Bar Toto, Ettalong 7pm
SAT 17 MAY
Comicon: The Entertainment Grounds, Gosford 10:30am
Alliance Francaise French conversation: Erina Leagues Club 10am
Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm
Telita Lee & The Huskies + Lujza + Salt Skin: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6.30pm
Naturellement: A Food, Drinks & Culture Festival: The Galleria, Ettalong Beach 12pm to 18 May *
Ice Hockey: Central Coast Rhinos vs Adelaide Adrenaline: Erina Ice Arena 3:30pm
Danny Marx Young Trio: Gosford RSL Club 8pm
Whether you’re a seasoned com-goer or attending for the first me, Central Coast Comicon offers something for everyone. It will take place from 10.30am-4.30pm on Saturday, May 17, at The Entertainment Grounds, West Gosford. Proceeds from the event will support Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS), helping
ELECTRIFY BOUDDI: BELLS AT KILLCARE 11AM
Ironic: Hardys Bay Club 6pm
Chloe Louise: Davistown RSL Club 6.30pm
Burt Bacharach Songbook: Ettalong Diggers 4pm
Simon Tedeschi and George Washingmachine: Avoca Beach Theatre 1.30pm
Tribute to Roy Orbison – Aaron Mansfield: Laycock Street Community Theatre 2pm
Sweet Remedy Duo: Hardys Bay Club 1pm
Was Beethoven Romantic?: Central Coast Conservatorium of Music, Gosford 2.30pm
Montana Duo: Gosford RSL
provide vital programs and support for young people across the Central Coast. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the biggest popculture events on the Central Coast calendar. Tickets and full event info are available at www.cccomicon. com.au
The Filthy Darlings: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 2pm
Sunday Sessions - Live Music: Macs Beach Cafe, MacMasters Beach 4.30pm
PWA (Pro Wrestling Australia): Drifters Wharf, Gosford 5.30pm
Writers Club: Erina Library 10.30am
Law Week Webinar: ‘Parenting and the law’: Erina Library 12pm
You Are A Doughnut: Laycock St Community Theatre, Wyoming 10am & 12.30pm
Author Talk: Rosemary Gattuso presents It’s Not You It’s Me: Erina Library 10.30am
A special annual mass was celebrated by a small group of Central Coast Secular Franciscans at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, The Entrance, on April 10.
The mass was celebrated by Rev Fr Anthoni Selvaraj OFM (Order of Friars Minor) who is parish priest at the Sydney churches of St Francis of Assisi in Paddington and St Joseph in Edgecliff.
Each year the small local Central Coast Franciscan Fraternity celebrates the Anniversary of Profession as Franciscans and Commitment of Renewal to follow the Franciscan Rule as set down by St Francis of Assisi 800 years ago.
Members are lay men and women who gather regularly. For information visit ofsaustralia.org.au
The local fraternity meets at 1pm on the second Friday of each month at The Entrance Catholic Church in the Reynolds Room.
All welcome.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
WED 21 MAY
2025 CENTRAL COAST VOLUNTEER EXPO: ERINA CENTRE, ERINA FAIR (NEAR THE LIBRARY) 10AM
THU 15 MAY
Markus Zusak Live Stream from Sydney Writers’ Festival: The Hub Erina Fair/Toukley Library/Umina Library 10am
Biggest Morning Tea: The Cove Village, Daleys Point 10.30am
David Nicholls live stream from Sydney Writers’ Festival: The Hub Erina Fair/Toukley Library/Umina Beach Library 9.30am
David Nicholls live stream from Sydney Writers’ Festival: Umina Beach Library 2pm
Umina Library has launched an engaging exhibition highlighting the rich history of local tourism through an extensive collection of souvenir wares.
The display features a variety of ceramics, artwork, postcards and teaspoons, inviting community members and visitors to explore the region’s past.
Complementing the exhibition is the newly released book, Wish You Were Here: A History of Tourism on the NSW Central
Coast, by local historian Peter Fisher.
The groundbreaking publication offers an in-depth look at the evolution of tourism in the area, revealing untold stories that have shaped the Central Coast into a beloved holiday destination.
“The history of Central Coast tourism is fascinating and often overlooked,” Fisher said.
“This exhibition not only complements the book but also highlights the tangible artifacts that tell these stories.”
Among the exhibition’s standout items are contributions from Mitchell Gordon, owner of Central Coast Antiques & Collectables, who has amassed a remarkable collection of souvenirs via the home clearance arm of his social enterprise.
“These collectable pieces offer a glimpse into the past and illustrate how tourism has evolved in this region,” he said.
“Each item carries a narrative reflecting the community’s heritage and the experiences of countless visitors.”
The display features handpainted ceramics and vintage postcards that capture the region’s iconic landscapes.
Rotary Brisbane Water President Jayne Mote said she had not realised how rich the history of local tourism was.
“This exhibition is a wonderful way to connect with our community’s past,” she said. Fisher’s book can be obtained by emailing peterfishercentralcoast@gmail. com
Central Coast Council is on the lookout for artists to connect with the community through creative workshops, talks, collaborations with other artists and installations throughout 2025-26 at the popular Gallery Container located in Toukley Village Green.
Creative individuals, groups and collectives are urged to express their interest by May 26.
In previous years, workshops and installations have offered a variety of activities from painting, sculpture and drawing
to knitting, stained glass, creative writing, wet felting, upcycled jewellery,watercolour, pottery, patchwork, candle, silver craft and more.
The space will need to be open for a minimum of four days per week for a minimum of four hours per day and will be available for use in 2025-26 in the following blocks: July 1-September 12, 2025; September 15-November 28, 2025; January 12-March 27, 2026; and March 30-June 26, 2026.
Creative Spaces is designed to foster and develop creatives, makers and artists through the
use of Council-owned places and spaces in creative ways.
The Gallery Container is available for the creative community to make, create, connect and activate the space including exhibitions, installations, workshops, creative demonstrations, artist talks and so on.
The program is also intended to increase visitations to the Toukley town centre for the benefit of our local businesses.
The converted 12m shipping container is decked out as a gallery, workshop and office space which is suitable for
exhibitions, workshops and interactive community engagement.
Electricity is available, but there is no access to water within the container.
Council provides the space and all associated equipment including electricity, promotional support, funding support of $5,000 per block and maintenance to successful artists.
To submit an expression of interest, complete the online form by searching ‘creative spaces’ at www.centralcoast. nsw.gov.au by May 26.
55. Light beams (6)
57. Accumulate (7)
59. Astonishes (8)
63. Hearing organ (3)
64. Obtain (7)
66. Eggplant (9)
68. Become liable to (5)
70. End (9)
71. Scottish landowner (5)
72. Sapient (9)
73. Hates (7)
74. Longing (8)
75. Postponed (8)
1. Declination (7)
2. Variety of mandarin orange (9)
3. Svelte (5)
5. Root vegetable (6)
6. Breed of dog (9)
7. Empowered (7)
8. Surpassed (11)
9. Gratify (6)
10. Illustrious (7)
11. Welsh canine (5)
12. Tryst (11)
13. Singing voice (4)
15. Large church building (9)
23. Merit (7)
26. Sentiment (7)
27. Exemplify (10)
28. Fraudulent scheme (4)
30. Light (9)
32. Unforseen (10)
34. Goes on (9)
35. Nemesis (4)
38. Deduct (5)
41. Milliners (7)
43. Keeps back (7)
44. Arrow (4)
45. Increased speed (11)
46. Scintilla (4)
47. Intricately (11)
49. Waving (9)
52. Musical instrument (9)
54. Atificial lake (9)
56. Dried grapes (7)
58. Herbaceous plant (7)
60. Lauded (7)
61. Part of a flower (6)
62. Concealed (6)
65. Unit of weight for precious stones (5)
67. Direction (4)
69. Hoard (5)
Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.
Preparing Ground, a powerful new First Peoples’ dance work, is coming to The Art House Wyong on May 16.
The first dance work to grace The Art House stage in 2025, Preparing Ground is an allfemale First Nations-led dance work that brings together community, climate, and culture.
Through movement and compelling imagery, it explores relationships with Country, each other, and the future — offering a call to community, grounded in hope.
Co-directed by Marilyn Miller, Jasmin Sheppard, and Katina Olsen – with support from
Central Coast Music & Arts (CCMA) is proud to partner with Musicians Making A Difference (MMAD) to present this month’s special Mix & Master event on Tuesday, May 20.
The monthly events focus on professional development for creatives across all platforms.
Each month, the Mix & Master event will feature a session on a key topic designed to help participants level up their creative career.
These sessions will include expert insights, practical tips, and real-world advice from industry professionals, followed by a short networking
BlakDance, QPAC, Brisbane Festival, NAISDA Dance College and The Art House – the work was developed over six years through collaboration with the performers’ communities on their Countries.
A slow, deliberate process grounded in cultural time and collective decision-making, Preparing Ground invites audiences to consider what it means to belong to a land that remembers, while simultaneously acting as a call to join First Peoples’ care of land as an urgent act for our shared future.
Exploring themes of community, colonisation, language, and land care, the contemporary work weaves
intricate choreography, vivid projections of Country, and a dynamic, transformative set in a feat of First People’s storytelling and ingenuity that beckons us all to come together in care for the land and each other.
In a time of environmental and social upheaval, Preparing Ground offers a message of hope, resilience, and collective responsibility.
Preparing Ground opens at The Art House at 8pm on Friday, May 16 and continues The Art House’s longstanding tradition of bringing First Nation’s art and culture to the Central Coast.
Tickets are on sale now.
opportunity for attendees to connect with fellow creatives.
Whether you’re a musician, visual artist, writer,
dancer, or part of any other creative field, these monthly sessions will provide valuable tools, inspiration, and
professional growth. Join in to gain knowledge, expand your network, and become part of the thriving
Red Tree Theatre and Wyong Drama Group will combine to present an inaugural weekend venture called Wyong Writes from May 23-25, designed to promote local playwrights.
This year’s event will feature two one-act plays written by Sal Bartley – Walk A Mile, and One Crowded Hour.
Walk A Mile, to be directed by Ron Baker, was a finalist in Scene Theatre Sydney’s 2024 Stage to Stage festival.
One Crowded Hour, to be directed by Sancia West, was performed in 2023 at the Port Macquarie One Act Festival where it won the award for Best Ensemble.
Bartley has written many
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award-winning one-act plays for other festivals, including the Norfolk Island One Act Theatre Festival where her two plays received several major awards including one for Best Original Script.
She has also had success at Short And Sweet and Woy Woy Little Theatre’s Flash Festival.
Bartley has also written a
creative community on the Central Coast.
Registration is essential, and spaces are strictly limited.
Please ensure you fill out the details of all attendees when registering.
As part of the networking, there will be contact sheets on the night.
If you’re ready to expand your creative circle and spark meaningful collaborations, join Creating Connections, an engaging networking event designed to bring musicians, artists and other creatives together with industry professionals.
Things will kick off with a fun
icebreaker to warm up the room, followed by a fast-paced “speed dating” style session where participants can meet potential collaborators, mentors, and partners.
Whether you’re looking to team up on your next project, get insider advice, or just grow your industry network, this is your chance to make real connections that can elevate your creative career.
It’s on at Musicians Making A Difference, 342 Mann St, North Gosford.
Tickets are free with registration via centralcoastmusicarts.com
Six months into the job and three-and-half years to go; how are Central Coast councillors coping with their new roles?
Coast Community News asked the councillors to tell us how much time their role was taking, after a councillor at another NSW council last week resigned saying the hours were too much.
Bellingen Shire Council’s deputy mayor, Councillor Ellie Tree, stepped down citing workload with being a single mum of three, study and a fulltime job.
It was her second term.
Former Central Coast Administrator Rik Hart spoke at candidate information nights before the Coast elected councillors in September last year and made it sound like the role would not take up much time, maybe eight hours a week, and that it was like being a director on a board.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig disagreed with the director description, as noted when he spoke at a local government conference and told councillors to close their ears when someone said that to them.
We asked our councillors how much time was involved.
Here’s what five councillors who responded said ( in order of response).
Councillor Margot Castles:
“From my experience to date, I would estimate it to be at least 25 hours a week at a minimum.”
Councillor Jared Wright: “I would say at least 20 hours per week on average and that’s across meetings, workshops, briefings, reading and getting across material, liaising with local residents, community engagement at local meetings and events, plus any social media, and media.
“I like to make myself open to the community, so I make an effort to respond to every social media comment, email and phone call.
“That’s what the community expect so it is my job to deliver on that.
“Most days I will try and flick through the local community Facebook pages and that’s often where I uncover local issues.
“The need to repair Tramway Rd in North Avoca this week is a good example of that.
“Above all, I think to be seen and heard you have to put in the time.
“It’s certainly not all ribbon cutting; in fact, I am yet to do that.”
Councillor Trent McWaide:
“I’m doing between 20 and 30 hours per week; if I’m honest.
“It’s more when you consider attending public events, meetings, briefings, meeting ratepayers (travel), reading (takes the most amount of time) then researching.
“I’ve currently got my emails down to 477 unread.
“Managing your own calendar is even hard.
“It is a lot.
“I’m not whinging because I love it.
“But the structure needs to change if they want the best results.
“I’m of the opinion they should have a one civic staff member dedicated to each ward and they can help with admin etc.
“In 3.5 years when we move to nine councillors, good luck finding appropriate candidates unless they make it full time.”
Councillor John McNamara: “I spend an average of about 20 hours per week (two to three hours per day) on Council matters and I choose to do that amount of time and I love it.
“I am retired and understood the time commitment before I put my hand up for the election, as I was a Wyong Shire Councillor back in 2008-2012.
“I knew the time commitment was not just for the short term but over the full four-year term.
“When you have a Council meeting once a month it is not just about reading and understanding the 1,000 pages of agenda items and reports.
“There are briefings and workshops to attend and also travelling to meet with ratepayers who have site issues like dangerous trees or road repair requests in their street.
“I also put up my hand to be the Chair of the Economic Development Committee because of my background in Global Business and I had the time to commit to the role.
“Being Chair of a Committee probably adds two hours a week to my Council work time.
“Thankfully we can now use the online Teams software to attend meetings if we cannot make it into the chamber or briefing room for personal reasons.”
Councillor Helen Crowley: “I spend about two hours per day on reading emails from Council
and constituents, then on various days I would add to that another 4-6 hours either at community meetings and/or Council meetings.
“We all have a lot of reading when the business papers are released; recently one had 1,000 pages to get through.
“So I spend between 14 and 24 hours per week which is an average of 3.5 hours per day and the remuneration we receive is approximately $9 per hour before tax.”
No other councillor replied.
Councillors at different councils get paid different rates depending on the size of the council.
On the Coast, councillors get $35,620 at present and that will rise by 3% maximum next financial year depending on what the councillors decide.
The community voted at the last council election, in September last year, to reduce the number of councillors on the Coast from 15 to 9 and the corresponding wards from five to three.
The make-up of those three wards is yet to be determined.
Ausgrid is seeking community input on the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (HCC REZ) network infrastructure.
The historic investment aims to ensure a cheaper, more secure and less impactful energy transition in the region.
As part of the HCC REZ planning process, the draft Review of Environmental Factors (REF) is now out for public exhibition until June 9. Group Executive Transmission Development and Growth, Kelly Wood, said the public consultation was an important milestone.
“This review assesses the potential environmental impacts of the project and how Ausgrid intends to reduce these, including impacts on the
landscape, noise and vibration and biodiversity,” she said.
“It also assesses any potential effect on local Aboriginal heritage, and the social and economic impacts.
“This is a key part of our planning process, and we want to ensure the community can have their say.
“We will be holding a number of community drop-in sessions, as well as online webinars to allow the community to learn more about the findings of the review.”
The HCC REZ is a key pillar of the NSW Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, ensuring the energy potential of the region can be harnessed to deliver a reliable and sustainable energy supply.
Ausgrid’s proposed infrastructure includes two
new substations, a major upgrade of two existing substations, and upgrading of approximately 85km of existing powerlines between Kurri Kurri and Muswellbrook.
“By enhancing our existing
network, we are driving a cheaper, less impactful transition for the HunterCentral Coast, and we are also reducing our environmental footprint,” Wood said.
“The proposed upgrades will
Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services has lodged a development application with Central Coast Council to establish a group home at Summerland Point.
The service provider for medical, health and wellbeing programs for Central Coast Indigenous people is planning to invest nearly $1.7M into the urgently needed group home project at 30 Summerland Rd, opposite Naroo Ave.
Previously the 2.63ha site was an educational establishment and at present it contains various dwellings, classroom-type structures, sheds, hardstand surfaces, a basketball court and dam.
The development proposal includes the retention and repurpose of the existing seven-bedroom dwelling to provide a permanent residence.
An additional eight bedrooms for a permanent and or transitional group home will be provided by way of the installation of moveable dwellings.
The existing four-bedroom dwelling will be retained and used as ancillary offices and consulting rooms which will provide support services and allied health programs to the residents of the group home.
enable at least one gigawatt of new energy to be delivered to Ausgrid customers.”
Drop-in sessions will be held:
from 4-6pm on Thursday, May 15 at Singleton Library; from 2-6pm on Wednesday, May 21 at Muswellbrook Library; from 4-6pm on Thursday, May 22, at Branxton Community Hall; and from 10am-2pm on Sunday, May 25, at Valley Markets in Singleton.
Online webinars will be held: from 6.30-7.15pm on Monday, May 19; and from 12.301.15pm on Tuesday, May 20.
For the REF planning documentation, the supporting technical documents, and the opportunity to give feedback until June 9, go to the Ausgrid website at yoursay.ausgrid. com.au/hccrez
Offices and consulting rooms will be used for the physical, social, cultural and intellectual development and welfare of residents only and will not be offered to the broader community.
Six structures will be demolished including two existing sheds, four structures historically used as classrooms, and the basketball court.
Two other sheds will be relocated and two unhabitable buildings will be used for storage.
Other work on-site to bring the project up to standard will include a new on-site sewer management system, extension and connection of services, site earthworks, pathways, carparks, driveways, a new internal bushfire access trail and landscaping.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
As the popularity of gardening blossoms across the country, another naturebased passion is quietly growing beneath our feet— mushrooms.
From forest foraging adventures to cultivating your own gourmet fungi at home, mushrooms are capturing the attention of nature lovers, foodies, and curious gardeners alike.
Autumn, with its damp earth and cooler temperatures, marks the ideal season for mushroom activity.
Many are venturing into the bush, camera or basket in hand, in search of these fascinating fungi.
While wild mushroom hunting may sound like a romantic,
BY CHERALYN DARCEY
earthy activity, it comes with serious risks.
Of the more than 10,000 mushroom species identi ed in Australia, only around 25 are poisonous—but those few can be deadly.
Every year, Australians fall ill—and in some tragic cases, die—after consuming wild mushrooms.
Unless you’re trained in mycology (the study of fungi), it’s safer to treat wild mushrooms like you would rare owers: admire them, photograph them, but leave them be.
Still want to explore mushroom hunting safely?
You’re in luck.
Across Australia, there are guided foraging experiences
and courses that include expert-led identi cation sessions and even tastings.
A great place to start is the community at www.facebook. com/groups/AustralianWild MushroomHunters
WHY GROW YOUR OWN?
While only about 30 varieties of mushrooms are commercially available globally, the avour and freshness of homegrown mushrooms are unmatched.
Even the humble white button mushroom tastes far better when it’s harvested fresh from your own setup.
Unlike plants, mushrooms are fungi.
What we harvest is just the fruiting body; the main organism lives underground or
inside decaying matter as mycelium.
These thread-like structures develop from spores and, under the right conditions, fruit into mushrooms.
The good news? Growing mushrooms at home is not as dif cult as you might think.
MUSHROOM GROWING BASICS
Home cultivation usually begins with “spawn”—a starter culture of the mushroom species you want to grow.
Spawn is a mix of spores and a nourishing medium like grain, and it looks a bit like gravel.
This is added to a “fruiting substrate”—think of it like soil for fungi.
The type of substrate varies depending on the species and may include straw, sawdust, hardwood chips, or coffee grounds.
Once set up, your mushrooms will need a cool, damp, dark environment—ideally between 13°C to 21°C, depending on the stage of growth.
A basement, cupboard, garage, or even under the house could work.
During colonisation, when the mycelium is spreading through the substrate, a temperature of around 21°C is ideal.
After two to three weeks, you’ll drop the temperature to around 13–16°C to trigger fruiting.
Light misting with water helps maintain humidity, and soon—often in less than a
month—you’ll see mushrooms ready for harvest.
A popular and sustainable method involves using fresh coffee grounds from local cafes as the substrate.
This works well, but be sure the grounds haven’t been contaminated.
Providing your local barista with a clean, lidded bucket is a great way to ensure quality.
MUSHROOM KITS FOR BEGINNERS
For those dipping their toes into mushroom growing, boxed kits are an excellent place to start.
Available at many nurseries and major garden retailers, these kits require minimal effort—just place them in the right spot, keep them moist, and wait.
While a bit more expensive than buying spawn and substrate separately, the simplicity and neatness of these kits make them perfect for small spaces or beginner growers.
DON’T WASTE THE WASTE: MUSHROOM COMPOST
When your mushroom kit has stopped producing, don’t throw it out.
The leftover material— known as mushroom compost—is rich in organic matter and makes an excellent soil conditioner for the rest of your garden.
You might even get a surprise ush of mushrooms as a bonus!
Just like garden plants, some mushrooms are more beginnerfriendly than others.
Here are three great options for home growers:
Pearl Oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus) Fast-growing and forgiving, Pearl Oysters are perfect for impatient growers or kids.
They thrive indoors on sawdust or straw and outdoors on hardwood logs.
Garden Giant (Stropharia rugosoannulata) Also known as the Wine Cap, this mushroom can take up to six months to fruit but is easy to cultivate outdoors.
It loves moist conditions and thrives on hardwood chips, making it an attractive and edible garden feature.
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
For those ready for a challenge, Shiitakes grow best on hardwood logs and can take up to a year to fruit.
However, once established, they can be reinoculated yearly and provide long-term yields.
If you’re in a hurry, they also grow on sawdust blocks in just a few months.
Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, expand your gardening horizons, or simply grow delicious, nutritious food at home, mushrooms offer a fascinating and rewarding journey.
From wild foraging to kitchen bench kits, there’s a mushroom path for everyone.
As the cost-of-living crisis bites, packing a nutritious school lunch is tougher than ever.
Ultra-processed snacks dominate shelves, but smart swaps can save money and boost children’s health.
Box Divvy, a communitydriven food network, helps families access fresh, whole foods and pantry items up to 30% cheaper than supermarkets.
The organisation has many hubs across the region run by community members including the Fountaindale hub run by Christy Passlow.
“As a mum of four I know how challenging it can be to create healthy lunchboxes without spending a fortune,” she said.
“Box Divvy allows me to access a wide range of healthy products, including great value fresh fruit and vegetables.
“By shopping seasonally, I can make our budget stretch further, plus our hub community is a great source of recipes and ideas.
“My children love vegetable sticks and dip, honey popcorn and cheese with crackers.
“They also enjoy homemade sushi – I cook the H2G sushi rice from Box Divvy the night before then just put together in the morning.
“At the moment whole watermelons are such good value, I freeze slices so that on hot days it can be put into lunchboxes frozen.
“By crunch and sip time it’s defrosted and ready to eat, although still cold and refreshing.”
Research shows that diets high in processed foods are linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and mental health challenges, particularly in children.
“Families are feeling the pinch, but healthy lunches don’t have to cost a fortune,”
Box Divvy co-founder Jayne Travers-Drapes said.
“Simple swaps, like using fresh, whole foods instead of processed snacks, can save money and boost nutrition.
“Community food networks can help parents access quality produce at fair prices, ensuring kids get a balanced, nourishing lunch.”
Some simple and nutritious lunchbox ideas include:
Keep it colourful: Bright, fresh foods are naturally more appealing and require little preparation – just wash and chop ahead of time for graband-go options, think carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and berries.
Make protein fun: Quick options like cheese cubes, boiled eggs, or pre-cooked chicken strips make lunch packing faster and more
Central Coast residents are being urged to get the flu shot ahead of the peak influenza months.
The call comes in the wake of expert warnings of low vaccination rates across the nation.
Despite being eligible for free flu vaccinations, only 32.5% of patients aged over 65, and fewer than one in three children, have been vaccinated so far in 2025.
Already, there have been more than 71,000 labconfirmed flu cases reported to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS).
Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) Director of Public Health Dr Kat Taylor said the northern hemisphere experienced a particularly
challenging flu season, with the southern hemisphere likely to mirror that.
“Generally on the Central Coast we have enjoyed high rates of vaccination in the past, particularly among the older population,” she said.
“Bit we have noticed a bit of a decline since the pandemic.
“This could be due to vaccine fatigue, but also barriers to access.
“Cost of living pressures are seeing competing priorities.
“But we especially urge those aged over 65 and those at risk of complications to be vaccinated.”
Taylor said the vaccine was free for those aged six months to five years, those aged over 65, Indigenous people aged over six months, and pregnant women.
“We have an extended pharmacist program now, with pharmacists able to deliver the vaccine to children as young as two,” she said.
For those who have to pay, the vaccine is low-cost, she said.
“But other factors such as the costs of getting to appointments (can be a deterrent) and sometimes a service fee is involved,” she said.
“But complications can be very serious and can include hospitalisation, pneumonia, multiple organ failure and even death.”
Taylor urged those feeling unwell to stay home and avoid contact for others.
“Have a plan – chat to your doctor or health care professional for a plan in the event you do get sick in Winter,” she said.
Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) President Dr Michael Wright said that now was the time to get vaccinated.
Toukley Lions Club and Toukley Lions Ladies
Auxiliary will host a Kidney Awareness Week fundraiser on Saturday, May 31, to support Lake Haven Lions Renal Unit.
All proceeds of the event at the Bunnings Lake Haven warehouse will be donated to the Renal Unit.
Medical staff will be on hand to provide the community with information about kidney disease and encouraging support for those undergoing
dialysis for end-of-stage kidney disease.
Toukley Lions Club will also have on display a model of the Lions Big Red Bus, which is a mobile dialysis unit.
Patients who find it hard to organise holidays or short breaks away from home can take advantage of the mobile dialysis facility and organise their holidays around the location of the bus.
More than 200 Lions Clubs in NSW and other participants raised more than $300,000 to provide the Big Red Bus.
nutritious. Consider healthier alternatives to processed meats like salami, hotdogs, and sausages, which are high in harmful chemicals like N-nitroso compounds, nitrite, and nitrate preservatives, linked to cancers. Opt for tuna, turkey, beef, cheeses, tempeh, or lunch box tofu instead.
Skip the pre-packaged snacks: Save time and money by preparing batches of homemade popcorn, energy balls, or yoghurt and fruit in reusable containers.
Get creative and involve children: Transform lunchtime into a fun and engaging activity by involving children in the process. Set a project like buying a scrapbook to collect lunchbox ideas and recipes they enjoy – adding comments or drawings for each entry. Websites like Pinterest can be a treasure trove of inspiration. Think leftovers: Cook once, eat twice. Pack last night’s roast chicken, pasta, or rice bowls for a no-preparation nutritious school lunch.
“The flu must be taken seriously, and these low vaccination rates should be ringing alarm bells,” he said.
“We’ve already seen a very early start to the flu season, and we’re set to see a surge in flu and other respiratory diseases in the coming Winter months.
“So, now is the perfect time to get vaccinated; it’s a decision that could save your life.”
Wright urged state and territory governments to follow the lead of Queensland and Western Australia and institute free flu vaccination programs for all.
“The number one step people can take to help keep themselves, their family, and their community safe, is to get vaccinated,” he said.
“Influenza is a serious illness, and the vaccine saves lives.
“Unless we’re prepared, our health system will come under tremendous strain, including our hospitals potentially being pushed to the brink.
“Please be patient when trying to book in your vaccination with your regular GP clinic.
“Practice team members, including reception staff, will be doing their best to get you vaccinated as soon as they can, so I urge all patients to be courteous and respectful.
“Spread the word – the flu is a serious illness, and this year is looking especially dire, so get vaccinated right away.”
Bells at Killcare Saturday 17 May, 11.00am–2.30pm
Want to reduce your emissions and your energy bills? Come to Action Day!
• Talk to solar and hot water installers
• Induction appliance cooking demo
• Learn how locals are reducing emissions
• Check out electric vehicles and ebikes
The Regional Academies of Sport Ltd (RAS Ltd), the parent company of the Hunter Academy of Sport (HAS) and Central Coast Academy of Sport (CCAS), has renewed its partnership with Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) for a further three years.
The continued collaboration reaffirms a shared commitment to supporting the development of young athletes across the Hunter and Central Coast regions and strengthening community ties through sport.
SCA, home to Triple M and Hit, has been a key supporter of the Academy’s mission to nurture emerging talent and promote sporting excellence.
The renewed agreement will see SCA continue to provide vital media exposure, promotional support and community engagement opportunities for HAS and CCAS programs and athletes.
The partnership will continue to deliver a range of initiatives, including exclusive media coverage of Academy events, athlete storytelling and joint community outreach programs.
RAS Ltd CEO Brett O’Farrell welcomed the renewed agreement.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
On the second anniversary of the sudden death of superbike racer Dustin Goldsmith, a collection of vehicles, racing memorabilia, workshop equipment, and personal items he left behind is set to go to auction from May 12-19.
The online auction, run by Pickles.com.au, offers a rare and deeply personal glimpse into the world of one of Australia’s most admired privateer riders.
A familiar face on tracks around the country and a beloved member of the Central Coast community, Goldsmith’s reputation as a racer, tinkerer, and mentor still resonates today.
From high-performance vehicles and bikes to go-karts, tools, vintage parts, and motorsport collectibles, the items in the collection paint a vivid picture of a life defined by passion and precision.
For those who knew Goldsmith, every car and bike tells a story; for those who didn’t, this is a chance to connect with a legacy built in the garage and on the track.
Project Manager at Pickles Lee Pulbrook said the auction was about more than what’s for sale.
“It’s about honouring a man who gave everything to his sport and lived every moment at full throttle,” Pulbrook said.
“We’re honoured to help share that story.”
The collection is being offered across four simultaneous online auctions, featuring: a fleet of custom superbikes, go-
karts, and classic cars; a treasure trove of mechanical tools and workshop equipment; rare parts, motors and racing accessories; and personal memorabilia and items curated over a lifetime in motorsport.
The assets will be available for public viewing at 649 Pacific Hwy, Narara, from 9am-4pm on Friday, May 16.
Bidding opens at 9am on Monday, May 12 – exactly two years since Goldsmith’s death – and closes Sunday, May 19. All auctions are open to the public.
View the full collection and auction details at pickles.com. au/campaigns/dustingoldsmith-estate-sale
Central Coast Council has launched its Girls’ Futsal Program as part of the Girls in the Game initiative in Term 2 2025.
The free 10-week program for girls aged 10-16 starts on Wednesday, May 14, at Peninsula Leisure Centre.
Program highlights include free futsal sessions with subsidised equipment and uniforms, training for coaches, referees and officials to support program sustainability and a supportive, team-building environment that promotes confidence and connection. Sessions will run every
Wednesday from 3.30pm4.30pm until July 16 and are limited to 20 participants. They are funded by the Australian Government’s Play Our Way program.
Register now by searching ‘girls futsal’ at www. centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
The Central Coast Mariners women have secured a place in the A-League Women’s Grand Final for the first time in club history, following a dramatic 1-0 extra-time win over Melbourne City on Saturday, May 10.
The result, played out in front of a vocal crowd at Melbourne’s ctrl:cyber Stadium, sees the Mariners take the two-leg semi-final 3-2 on aggregate and sets up a blockbuster Grand Final clash with Melbourne Victory on Sunday, May 18, at AAMI Park.
The match was filled with drama from the opening whistle.
Melbourne City’s star striker Holly McNamara was forced off injured inside 20 minutes, and minutes later her teammate Lourdes Bosch was shown a straight red card after an offthe-ball incident involving Mariners forward Brooke Nunn.
Despite being a player down, City defended resolutely for much of the game, with neither side able to find the net in regular time.
With penalties looming,
121st minute after a clever assist from substitute Peta Trimis.
While City protested for
“This team just doesn’t stop fighting,” head coach Emily Husband said after the match.
The result is all the more remarkable considering the Mariners only rejoined the A-League Women’s
return with championship glory, the yellow and navy will now prepare for next Sunday’s Grand Final against Melbourne
and
