The State Government has announced a shared pathway from Point Clare as the first step in the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront precinct, but Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch says the plan fails the people of the Central Coast.
In September 2022, Central Coast Council unveiled a mammoth revitalisation plan stretching along the entire waterfront from the railway line to beyond the sailing club and including a mix of commercial, retail and accommodation options, along with a ferry terminal, outdoor recreational areas and even an amphitheatre. The plan also
a public building (with a purpose yet to be identified); multi-storey buildings jutting into Brisbane Water to house residences, retail, and dry boat storage; a ferry terminal over by the rail bridge; a walkway atop a seawall encircling the development; a pedestrian bridge over Dane Dr for access from Leagues Club Park to the waterfront; and an expanded water playground outside Gosford Pool.
The Council was to conduct preliminary works and then hand over management of the project to the Government.
Ensemble Offspring - Lamorna Nightingale, Jason Noble and Claire Edwardes
MPs Liesl Tesch and David Harris at Gosford waterfront on July 17
Photo: Keith Saunders
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Managing Editor: David Abrahams
Print Editor & Senior Journalist: Terry Collins
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Cheralyn Darcey, Skaie Hull, Julie Chessman, Ivona Rose
A region that forgets its history risks losing its soul
History is not a luxury; it’s a foundation.
And this month, the Central Coast has seen just how fragile, and fiercely valued, that foundation is.
When wild weather tore through West Gosford in June, it damaged the roof of Henry Kendall Cottage, the modest sandstone building which was once home tof one of Australia’s most celebrated poets.
However, what followed was a powerful display of community care: members of Rotary clubs from Brisbane Water, The Entrance, Gosford, and Kincumber stepped in to secure protective tarps, ensuring the historic site was preserved while more
EDITORIAL
permanent repairs are planned.
The Brisbane Water Historical Society, which manages the local history museum, is now working to replace the traditional shingled roof, and, remarkably, the cottage has remained open to visitors throughout.
It’s a living link to both our literary past and to a time when this region was at the cultural edge of a growing nation.
Meanwhile, in Gosford, the community’s passion for heritage has again come to the surface.
The old Gosford Library,
once a civic and cultural hub, is now at the centre of a growing campaign calling for its preservation or thoughtful reuse.
And in a rare win for conservationists, the old Gosford Courthouse home of our Conservatorium of Music has at long last been officially listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, recognition of its lasting historical and architectural value.
But perhaps no story captures the enduring legacy of this region more than that of Bungaree, born near Broken Bay.
Bungaree was one of the first Aboriginal leaders to engage directly with colonial officials.
He circumnavigated Australia with Matthew Flinders, was recognised by early governors as a man of intelligence and standing, and remains a powerful symbol of resilience, diplomacy and reconciliation.
These are not relics of the past; they are reminders of who we are as a region.
The Central Coast is central to the nation’s modern and ancient history.
As our towns change, let’s make space not only for progress, but for memory.
Because a region that forgets its history risks losing something far more valuable than real estate, it risks losing its soul.
David Abrahams, Managing Editor
CoastAbility scholarships announced
Local Central Coast charity CoastAbility recently held its annual Volunteers and Scholarships Awards Night, with members and volunteers receiving recognition for their contributions and the winners of multiple academic and sporting scholarships announced.
Entirely volunteer-run since its establishment in 1932, CoastAbility offers academic and sporting scholarships to young people who are living with a physical disability and studying at a tertiary institution or competing in sport at a high level.
CoastAbility supports Central Coast young people with physical disabilities from birth to age 25 by providing financial assistance towards the costs of disability-related needs not covered by NDIS funding.
This may include mobility, access and therapeutic equipment, assistive technology, daily living aids and activities to empower the young people and promote wellbeing.
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Each scholarship is for up to $5,000 and can be used to cover expenses for items such as equipment, transportation, accommodation, training and general education needs.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch was in attendance on the night to celebrate their outstanding efforts.
“This is a fantastic achievement for our wonderfully talented young people, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the amazing scholarship recipients,” Tesch said.
“Their achievements are a testament to their determination, talent, and the incredible potential within our diverse community.
Clarification
Coast Community News reported from an outdoor Land and Environment Court hearing held at Killcare on Monday July 14.
“As Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion and a former ambassador for CoastAbility, I am thrilled that more tremendous young people living with a disability will be able to pursue their goals and excel at their passions.”
The 2025 Scholarship Recipients were successful across a number of fields.
Adam Deas received a Continuing Academic Scholarship for a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management.
Riley Smith also received a Continuing Academic Scholarship for a Bachelor of Media and Communications.
Mikaela Magro was awarded both an Academic Scholarship
In our article published last week we attributed local Rodney Dawson as saying: “He also questioned the ‘overblown claims’ of locals who were advocating for it based on utility.”
Dawson has said he did
and a Continuing Sporting Scholarship for a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science and Women’s Football.
Aiden Knevett received a Sporting Scholarship for karate and Chloe Karsten was also awarded a Sporting Scholarship for equestrian.
Tesch spoke with Adam Deas, who received his scholarship to continue his studies in Environmental Science and Management at the University of Newcastle.
“Not just for me but for all recipients, this scholarship means we can either continue or start degrees that otherwise would be even more difficult to do, and it keeps everything manageable and affordable,” Deas said.
not say “overblown”.
While our reporter asserts those words were said CCN has, as a result of the request, corrected the article online, and now wishes to retract and correct the report.
You can find more information about CoastAbility, its history and its support for young people at www.coastability. org.au.
Registration with CoastAbility is free, and registration forms can be found there.
Ethel ‘June’
Late of Wyoming Formerly of Niagara Park Passed away peacefully on 15th July 2025
Aged 100 years
Beloved Wife to Thomas Much loved Mum to Thomas Jr, Shelley and Gary Cherished Nanny to her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren
Forever In Our Hearts
Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend a celebration of June’s life in the Hillside Chapel at Palmdale Lawn Cemetery and Memorial Park, 57 Palmdale Road, Palmdale on Tuesday 29th July commencing at 10:30am
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with the recipients
North Entrance Surf Club remains in limbo
North Entrance Surf Life Saving Club remains without a plan or timeline for repairs to its damaged emergency access ramp, despite being among the original calls for urgent action on coastal erosion four months ago.
While temporary erosion works are starting to move forward at The Entrance North and Wamberal, the surf club – a vital community-owned facility sitting on Crown Land and managed by Central Coast Council – has been left in limbo, with no clear path forward.
“It’s a crucial community asset,” resident Paul Green said.
“It’s Winter now, but if this isn’t sorted soon, we’ll be back in peak season with the same problem.
Twenty-five diverse community groups have signed up to the Central Coast Community Better Planning Group’s campaign to save the existing Gosford library building in Kibble Park.
The mid-20th century architecturally designed building has been slated for demolition by Central Coast Council to make way for a concrete amphitheatre, but a growing chorus of local voices wants the building kept for future generations.
“The community outcry to save this significant midcentury nuts and berries architectural gem is deep and wide,” Central Coast Community Better Planning Group spokesperson, Joy Cooper, said.
“When we initiated our Open Letter to Central Coast Council, we had 12 community groups on board.
“That has now more than
“We need action, not more delays.”
Fellow resident Scott Laing is a long-time member of the club.
His father helped found the club in response to the need for stronger safety services at the northern end of the channel following high demand at The Entrance Beach and he says the issue goes far beyond inconvenience.
“The access ramp isn’t just for volunteers,” he said.
“It’s used to get emergency vehicles onto the sand and down to the channel, which is one of the most dangerous swimming spots on the entire Central Coast – and without it, lives could be at serious risk.”
Despite ongoing meetings with Central Coast Council and State Ministers, the club’s
future remains uncertain, even as other erosion-hit sites begin to see some traction.
At The Entrance North, residents met with Council last week in an effort to resolve ongoing delays, following the recent approval of a scope of works by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.
Some of the red tape holding up progress was reportedly raised with Council months ago, well before the approval was granted.
“There have been a few hurdles we’ve needed to cross, and these were raised early on,” one resident said.
“We hope they can now be resolved to benefit all residents along the 250-metre stretch.”
Another local said there is now cautious optimism.
“It’s been an anxious time for us,” they said.
“We just want to protect our properties.
“It looks like we may finally be able to move forward, with the last hurdle addressed last week and updated documents expected shortly.”
Central Coast Council confirmed in a statement that property owners at The Entrance North have six months from the date of Ministerial Authorisation to commence physical works.
“Council issued draft plans for work to property owners at Wamberal on 30 June,” the statement read.
“Council is consulting with owners on the draft plans and working to have amended plans incorporating owner
feedback where practicable by early next week.
“Council appreciates the diverse needs of owners at both locations and is working with owners and their technical representatives to find solutions that address their unique needs and preferences.”
Meanwhile, Wamberal residents are becoming frustrated at the lack of action and say the Reconstruction Authority is not fulfilling its legal obligation to negate risk by making the beach safe so it can be reopened.
Impacted residents say the response remains limited and serious safety issues further north along the beach have not been addressed in the scope of works that are yet to be put forward to the Reconstruction Authority (RA) for approval.
Push to save library building ramps up
doubled, and the groups are eager to speak publicly about why they want the building saved for adaptive reuse.”
Trustees of the A I Chapman Estate and the E H Chapman Estate are on board.
Trustee David Booth said the trust was happy to support the retention of the library building.
Kariong Progress Association has also signed the Open Letter to Central Coast Council calling for the building to be saved.
“As a community, we know how important it is to have places where people can come together – to connect, learn, create and support each other,”
President Lisa Bellamy said.
“Gosford is crying out for more of these kinds of community spaces, not fewer.
“Knocking down the library might look good on a glossy flyer, but it does nothing to meet the real needs of locals.
“We should be building on what we already have, not tearing it down.”
Allan Benson of the Ourimbah Region Residents Association (ORRA) said the association recognises the historical and architectural significance of Gosford Library and urges Council to retain the building for future community use.
Local resident and convenor of the Urban Sketchers Central Coast Group, Jen Charlton, said
she was sure the 210 members in the group “appreciate that this architecturally significant building would make a great place for community art exhibitions or other cultural or educational or community use”.
Rhonda McCormack, Advocacy Convenor for Soroptimist International
Brisbane Water, has also joined the campaign.
“Soroptimist International Brisbane Water would like to see the Gosford Library building in Kibble Park preserved,” she said.
“It is considered to be an architecturally significant building and invaluable for continued community use.
“The works are minor and limited – and there remains a serious public safety risk which still hasn’t been fixed,” one resident said.
With warmer weather around the corner and beach usage set to rise, residents say the delays can no longer be justified.
“Just because the swell and bad weather has gone away –it doesn’t mean the emergency and risk isn’t still there,” one said.
“We are one bad storm away from being back in the same situation.”
Minister Janelle Saffin and the NSW Reconstruction Authority were contacted for comment, but no response was received by the time of publication.
“Regional Youth Support Services have stated that it is a suitable venue for their organisation, with minimal expenditure needed for upgrade.
“It is a building in a central location, near public transport facilities and other services.”
Also joining the campaign are Phillip Morley, president of The Wyong District Museum & Historical Society, Wyong Family History Group and Zonta Club Central Coast.
Cooper said the Central Coast Community Better Planning Group is proud to be leading a campaign that represents such a diverse cross section of the community.
“The Central Coast sees the value of the Gosford library building,” she said.
“Let’s hope Central Coast Council listens to the views of its residents and ratepayers when it comes time to decide the fate of this landmark.”
Skaie Hull
North Entrance Surf Club still has no access ramp
Wamberal residents are becoming frustrated at the lack of action
More groups are joining a community campaign to save the library
Coast Connect
Central Coast Council news and community information
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Volunteers are the force behind National Tree Day
We’re hosting two community planting events this National Tree Day, Sunday 27 July, and everyone is invited to help plant trees and shrubs and enjoy free community festivities.
But did you know about the work that goes on behind the scenes to prepare for National Tree Day?
Each month, a volunteer seed collecting group gathers seeds and cuttings from local bushland and coastal reserves for use at Council’s Erina Nursery.
Nursery volunteer groups then work alongside environmental officers to sort the seeds and store them in the nursery’s seed bank. They process cuttings, pot up seedlings, and water and weed the new plants.
Our volunteers spend more than 400 hours working at the nursery and produce over 20,000 plants for ecological rehabilitation projects, landscaping in public spaces, and of course, National Tree Day.
As well as nursery volunteers, we’re fortunate to have approximately 650 volunteers who give their time, enthusiasm, and skills to restoring our local environment and many of those people will also be volunteering on National Tree Day.
Enormous thanks to all our environmental volunteers for your commitment and dedication to this cause – we couldn’t do it without you.
I encourage everyone to get involved on National Tree Day and help to plant the trees of the future.
For event details, or if you’re interested in finding out more about our Environmental Volunteer Program, search for ‘Environmental Groups’ on Council’s website.
Mayor Lawrie McKinna
Interested in what was resolved at this week’s ordinary Council meeting? Replay the webcast on our YouTube channel.
The next ordinary Council meeting will be held 6.30pm Tuesday 26 August at Wyong Council chambers. To view agenda, reports, live webcast and minutes, go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/meetings
What’s on
Join in this National Tree Day
Attend a free community planting event at Killcare Beach or Porters Creek Wetlands, Wyong from 9am to 1pm to take part in National Tree Day this Sunday 27 July – helping to preserve our natural environment.
Register to attend at ‘National Tree Day’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Sportsground upgrades across the Coast
Three well-used sportsgrounds on the Coast have recently been upgraded. Rogers Park in Woy Woy and Don Small Oval in Tacoma now feature improved car parks, enhancing safety and access. Patrick Croke Oval in Kincumber has new lighting and amenities, making it a safer, more welcoming and year-round space for local sport and recreation.
For more information search ‘sportsground upgrades 2025’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Chemical CleanOut is back this August
Clear out household chemicals at our Chemical CleanOut events – a safe, free and environmentally responsible way to dispose of hazardous waste. Join us in Charmhaven 2 and 3 August or Kincumber 9 and 10 August between 9am-3.30pm. Remember to keep chemicals in their original container and remain in your vehicle during drop-off.
For more information search ‘Chemical Cleanout’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Children’s book receives Local Government award
‘Every day I like to play’ book received the top honour in the ‘Community Partnerships population over 150,000’ category at the 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards in Sydney. The book promotes respectful relationships and breaks down gendered stereotypes of traditional roles within the home. Fostering inclusion and understanding across diverse family dynamics.
For more information search ‘2025 Local Government Award’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Emerging 2025 award winner announced
Gosford Regional Gallery has announced Madi Feist as the winner of the Emerging 2025 gallery event for her artwork called ‘Bag Lady’. The art piece is a playful and poignant installation examining femininity, cultural and social identity. Emerging 2025 features eight exceptional early career artists from across NSW, reflecting our diverse and vibrant arts community.
For more information search ‘Emerging’ at gosfordregionalgallery.com
Love Your Local Village
From parks and libraries to leisure centres, galleries, theatres, childcare, cemeteries, holiday parks, halls and community centres – these aren’t just facilities, they’re where we live, learn and connect.
Explore local places at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/loveyourlocalvillage
Lawrie McKinna
Fire and Rescue services on the Central Coast are set to be enhanced by a $1.8M refurbishment of Umina fire station and the acquisition of a new million-dollar rescue truck, to be stationed at nearby Gosford.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch and Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib visited Umina fire station recently to check out the refurbishment.
It will include upgraded facilities for the station’s 36 firefighters and the introduction of designated protection zones in line with Fire & Rescue NSW’s (FRNSW) Clean Fire Station Program.
This will reduce exposure to potentially contaminated material which can be brought back to stations from fires and emergency scenes.
Other upgrades will include: the creation of new rest areas; separation of work and living spaces; upgraded storage; a new gym supporting staff health and wellbeing; new toilet and shower facilities; and
Improving the region’s fire response
new male and female locker rooms.
The works are expected to be complete by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, at Gosford, crews are set to welcome a new Rescue Pumper, a truck specially designed in consultation with firefighters.
Valued at more than
A training seminar to help boaters and jet ski riders acquire the skills and knowledge they need to stay safer on our waterways is scheduled for Saturday, August 2.
The certified Marine Rescue Boat Licence Theory Course will be held at the new $3M state-of-the-art Marine Rescue Operations Centre at Point Clare.
The theory course will be conducted by trainers and assessors Jane and Raymond Lewis.
Only 10 applicants will be accepted for the five-hour course, which starts at 8.30am.
To gain a full boat licence,
$900,000, the truck will provide Central Coast communities with an enhanced rescue capability.
It also has updated storage allowing firefighters easier access to their most used tools, vastly improving operational response times.
The NSW Government is investing an additional $17M
over two years into the renewal of the state’s firefighting fleet.
The investment will deliver more than 15 new fire trucks to replace ageing vehicles, with initial funding part of a $98.7M capital program over the next year which also funds new and upgraded fire stations.
Dib said the refurbishment at Umina would bring the station
in line with modern standards and ensure a safe, clean work environment for firefighters.
“Gosford’s new fire truck will enhance response times and provide protection for Central Coast communities for years to come,” he said.
Tesch said as the region’s population grew, it was
Training course for boaters and jet skiiers
participants will also need to complete the Practical Handbook.
They are required to take a minimum of three trips with an experienced skipper, who has held a licence for a minimum of three consecutive years.
Marine Rescue Brisbane Water is a Registered Training Organisation with members professionally trained to national standards for their roles, both on and off the water, but does not offer the practical component.
“Courses are designed to teach you the ins and outs of safe boat handling and help build your confidence in local navigation, boating safety and
the marine environment,” Jane Lewis said.
In addition, a PWC (jet ski)
licence course will be available on the same day.
Should a person wish to
undertake both a GBL (Young person or Adult) and a PWC, they will need to enrol in two
important that the capacity of emergency services also expanded.
“The refurbishments at Umina are significant and the changes will be very much welcomed by Central Coast communities,” she said.
“Our local firefighters serve our community every day, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our community.
“Along with Gosford’s new truck, Umina’s modern and safety-focused upgrades showcases the Government’s commitment to putting the wellbeing of local firefighters serving the community front and centre.”
FRNSW Acting Commissioner Paul McGuiggan said firefighter input had been sought to ensure the facilities and new equipment suited their needs.
“These upgrades will ensure we’re prepared for anything here on the Central Coast,” he said.
FRNSW Acting Area Commander Matthew Waldon said Umina Fire Station was last upgraded in 2001 when it was converted from an indoor sports centre.
courses.
The course costs $165 adults, $145 young person (12-15 years old with parent of guardian), and the PWC (jet ski) licence is $50. No deposit is required.
Book online via the Marine Rescue website or phone the base on 4337 9600.
Marine Rescue NSW is approved by NSW Maritime to provide theory training and knowledge testing for the NSW general boat driving licence and PWC driving licence.
The Marine Rescue Brisbane Water Operations Centre is located at the northern end of Kurrawa Ave, Point Clare.
Huge effort to protect Henry Kendall Cottage
Members of Rotary Brisbane Water have stepped in to help protect one of the region’s most cherished landmarks.
Volunteers from the club recently secured protective tarps to the roof of the historic Henry Kendall Cottage at West Gosford after the building suffered damage during the severe weather conditions that swept through the area in June.
Past President Mitchell Gordon praised the collaborative effort that saw Rotarians from multiple clubs come together for the important preservation work.
“It was a wonderful team effort, with members from The Entrance, Gosford and Kincumber clubs joining forces to tackle the job,” he said.
Henry Kendall Cottage, a much-loved tourist attraction that draws visitors interested in
the region’s rich heritage, has been temporarily protected while more permanent repairs are undertaken.
The Brisbane Water Historical Society is currently working through the process of replacing the cottage’s traditional shingled roof.
Tourists can still tour the cottage and discover its historical significance throughout the renovation.
Trainer Jane Lewis
Volunteers put protective tarps on the roof
Liesl Tesch and Minister Jihad Dib with Fire and Rescue Umina’s crew
Central Coast Council has two weeks to make public two draft documents about Wamberal Beach after the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) ruled in favour of their release.
The ruling was made on Monday, July 14, after Corinne Lamont applied for the documents before she became a councillor and while Council was under administration.
Once she became a councillor after the elections in September of 2024, Lamont was given access to the documents but under confidentiality obligations.
This meant that as a councillor she was not allowed to make them public.
As a resident, Lamont had submitted Government Information Public Access (GIPA) requests, asking for copies of draft reports of stage
From page 1
Wamberal documents to be made public
six of a six stage report into the cost benefit analysis (CBA) into different options for Wamberal Beach.
Unlike Stages 1 through 4, the Stage 6 Final Report was never issued in draft form.
Lamont told the Tribunal she wanted the documents at the time to make a submission about a development application (DA) for a seawall when a proposal from
Wamberal Protection Association was on public exhibition in mid 2024.
The Tribunal outlined both the public interest for and against disclosure of three documents.
“Regardless of whether that DA process has moved on, I find that the underlying reason was to obtain more transparency over the matters considered by the Council in conjunction with other parties in the absence of councillor oversight at the relevant time the drafts were in the course of preparation,” the ruling said.
“The evidence also establishes that there were no councillors appointed at the relevant times the drafts were prepared.
“I also find that her (Lamont’s) past associations with community groups establish her strong interest in the matter for the purpose of such dissemination.
“I find these public interest considerations in favour of disclosure to be of significant weight.”
The judgement found there was a strong public interest in contributing to positive and informed debate on issues of public importance including, broadly, the issue of how to protect a community against the effects of climate change and/or coastal erosion.
“Recent ‘record breaking’ storms along the Australian eastern coast, and their devastating consequences, further heighten community concerns,” the judgement said.
It said the competing views and interests have continued unabated since the CBA prepared back in 2017 and noted the following comments included in a council staffer’s affidavit:
“The CBA concludes that one of the engineering options
considered (Options 2-7) are expected to provide a net public benefit for the local community and for visitors to the area, under base assumptions,” the affidavit said.
“Only a Planned Retreat (Option 8) provides greater benefits than a continuation of the current approach of no specific managed intervention (Option 1, maintaining current, status quo approaches).
“The analysis concludes that the net costs imposed on residents, visitors and other parties from the loss of the beach and construction of a seawall, exceed the net benefits stakeholders would receive from the effects of a seawall.
“The key beneficiaries from construction of a seawall are the approximately sixty owners of beachfront properties at Wamberal.”
The judgement stated that the requested documents “fit squarely within this area of public concern, where it is also acknowledged by the Respondent’s witnesses that there are highly contested community views on the building of a seawall”.
The NCAT decision means Lamont will get public access to the “Draft 01” and the “Draft Final” versions of the Report titled “Stage 6 Cost-Benefit Analysis of Wamberal Terminal Coastal Protection Options” dated 26 June 2021 and 27 April 2021 respectively.
Parts of the reasons for the decision were marked not for publication and remain confidential.
A third document was mentioned by Cr Lamont and it was the initial draft document with numerous comments and markups.
It was kept confidential.
Controversy over waterfront revitalisation plan
State Government MPs gathered on the waterfront on July 17 to say its initial focus is on enhancing public space and improving connectivity in the short term while providing opportunities for longer term investment.
Following market sounding and feasibility studies on how to best revitalise the area in line with its $8.5M election commitment, the Government is designing and costing an active transport shared pathway between Gosford and Point Clare.
This would cut the time to cycle and walk between the two destinations and improve connections further south to Tascott, Koolewong and Woy Woy via the Brisbane Water cycleway.
The Government will also prepare a targeted public domain plan and deliver improvements to the public domain in the next 18 months. It is inviting the community to have a say on what features and projects they would like to see in the public domain plan and help prioritise their delivery. This could include features like better lighting and visibility, fitness equipment, children’s playground equipment, picnic tables and seating, or a boardwalk.
The Government is also identifying projects that can be delivered in the longer term.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the Government was making sure it got things right in enabling the waterfront to
continue to evolve into a vibrant destination linked to the city and its surrounds.
Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said Gosford was finally fulfilling its enormous potential.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said after years of glossy plans with no certainty over what could be delivered along the waterfront, the Government was planning for Gosford’s future, informed by detailed market sounding and feasibility studies about the realistic short and long-term outlook for the city.
“Gosford is quickly transforming into a city that we can be proud of and it is important that our waterfront reflects Gosford’s place as the heart of the Central Coast,” she said.
“It is particularly exciting to see funding allocated towards design and costing for a shared pathway between Gosford and Point Clare, recognising our
community’s vocal support for this vital active recreation link.”
But Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch says the Government is axing plans for a bold vision for the waterfront re-development in favour of bushes, benches, barbecues, and bike paths.
“The Government promised $8.5M in October 2022 for a business case to enable Council’s ambitious redevelopment plan for the Gosford waterfront but will now spend the funding on a shared pathway and minor beautification of the waterfront,” he said.
Crouch, who is also Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, said the decision was shameful and would see the region continue to go backwards.
“(This) announcement is a complete joke and disappointment,” he said.
“The redevelopment of Gosford waterfront was the opportunity of a lifetime to unlock the city’s potential; the
Premier himself said Gosford needed to transform from a city with a waterfront into a waterfront city.
“Sadly, this announcement shows (the Government is) merely paying lip service about visionary opportunities for Gosford and the Central Coast.”
Crouch said the decision to focus on short-term improvements rather than pursue a longer-term vision was a short-sighted blunder.
“This decision will stand as a reminder that after more than two years of nothing, the Government has no plan for any long-term vision for Gosford and the Central Coast,”
Adam crouch mp
Chair of Council’s Governance and Finance Committee
Councillor Jared Wright said it was fundamental to have recreational opportunities in Gosford for people to enjoy.
While a shared pathway would certainly help with connectivity for people wanting
to head into Gosford, there needs to be a reason for people to want to go there in the first place, he said.
“At the moment, people are not excited about heading into Gosford; we need the restaurants, cafes and entertainment opportunities to make that happen,” he said.
“The precinct needs to be a priority and we must look at what we can do to kickstart that space as soon as possible.
“I’m not opposed to the shared pathway, but the larger piece of the puzzle is creating a community hub that brings people to Gosford.
“If we are to prioritise a shared pathway for transport connectivity, we also need to prioritise the end destination as well.
“Our NSW Government housing target has us set to build 9,400 new homes on the Central Coast by 2029, with Gosford anticipated to take the lions share.
“After thorough community consultation from Central Coast Council in 2022, the general consensus from local residents and the business community was that a revitalised waterfront precinct would form an anchor of a revitalised Gosford CBD.
“It noted that it would be a catalyst for local education and employment opportunities across the Central Coast.
“The overarching message from the community from the consultation period was to ‘just get on with it’.
“The Gosford waterfront has enormous potential to serve as a broader community and economic hub that brings people into the city from all areas of the Central Coast for cafes, restaurants and entertainment.”
The community can have its say at www.hccdc.nsw.gov.au/ gosford until Sunday, August 17.
Terry Collins
Councillor Corinne Lamont
Central Coast Council announced a bold plan for the revitalisation in 2022
Frantic search for emergency beacon
When an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) was activated on Friday night, July 18, Marine Rescue NSW units on the Central Coast, Hunter and Mid North Coast sprung into action, eventually locating the beacon and confirming that no-one was in danger.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said he was notified just before 8pm that a beacon signal had been received by the Australian
Maritime Safety Authority’s (AMSA) Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Canberra.
“Marine Rescue Norah Head was tasked to search for the EPIRB,” he said.
“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled, and rescue vessel Norah Head 20 was deployed.
“The crew searched waters up to five nautical miles off Norah Head but were stood down after two hours due to deteriorating sea conditions.
“There was a two-and-ahalf-metre swell and strong winds offshore.
“Marine Rescue Terrigal was placed on standby to assist the AMSA jet, which also searched offshore.”
At 10am on Saturday, July 19, the JRCC received another location signal from the EPIRB, indicating it could be in Forster.
“Volunteers from Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry responded,” Murray said.
“Without launching rescue
vessel Forster 30, the crew used the onboard radio direction finder and identified a bearing to the possible location of the EPIRB.
“The identified location was not in the water — it was actually at a nearby caravan park.
“Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry volunteers immediately went to the caravan park and located the EPIRB in a toolbox inside a small runabout.
“It was deactivated, and it
McBride returns to parliament
As the 48th Federal Parliament convened on July 22, Member for Dobell Emma McBride was sworn in to serve her fourth term representing the electorate.
McBride was returned at the May election, securing 59.4% of the two-party preferred vote.
As well as serving as the Member for Dobell, McBride was also reappointed by the Prime Minister as Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health.
Returning to Canberra, as part of the Labor Government, McBride will be focused on supporting more cost-of-living relief and delivering better healthcare for Coasties.
The Prime Minister announced
Historical signage returns to Long Jetty
Historical signage along Archbold Rd at Long Jetty has been returned, after previous signage was removed by Central Coast Council during renewal works to the amenities block at the location in February last year.
Member for The Entrance David Mehan said Council had not originally intended to maintain and keep the historical signage but agreed to return
the signs following community outrage and a petition.
Mehan said the signage was an important part of Long Jetty’s history and Council had now improved the design, the look and the location.
“The historical signage plays an important part in illustrating the heritage of our region, and its return should never have been a point of contention,” he said.
“I’m glad that Council has finally returned the signage which allows local and visitors alike to enjoy reading about the heritage of our region.
“I commend the community for their tireless advocacy, which continues to confirm that as a joint voice, we can achieve anything.”
Laurette Rose, who campaigned for return of the signs, said she was happy with the result.
that the first piece of legislation to be introduced in the new Parliament would be to reduce student loan debt by 20%, delivering on a key election commitment.
From July 1 key changes came into place including an increase to the minimum and award wages, additional paid parental leave and superannuation on paid parental leave, and $10,000 incentives for apprentice tradies.
From November the bulk billing incentive will be tripled for every Australian, making it easier for more people to see a GP for free.
In the coming weeks legislation will be introduced to Parliament to reduce the cost of general PBS prescriptions to $25, delivering on a
was confirmed that no persons were missing.”
Murray said a lot of time and resources could have been saved if the EPIRB had been registered.
“It is vitally important that all EPIRBs are registered with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority,” he said.
“Registering an EPIRB allows authorities to quickly identify the owner and their vessel in an emergency, significantly reducing response times.”
NEWS IN BRIEF Feedback on ferry fares
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) is calling for feedback on its review of fares for eight private ferry services in Sydney and on the Central Coast and the NSW North Coast.
Tribunal member Sharon Henrick said IPART was setting maximum fares to apply from January 1, 2026, and was interested in hearing from passengers and the wider community.
“We’d like to know whether any increase or decrease in fares would change the way people use private ferries, whether the current fares are seen as good value and how the ferry services compare to alternative transport options” she said.
commitment from the government which McBride championed as the only pharmacist in the Parliament.
“I’m honoured by the trust and confidence the people of the Central Coast have placed in me to continue serving as their representative,” McBride said.
“Coming back to Canberra, my focus is firmly on easing pressure on locals with targeted cost of living relief, including energy bill rebates and tax cuts.
“As a healthcare worker, I know the importance of affordable care close to home, which is why work is already underway to deliver an additional local Medicare Urgent Care Clinic and triple the bulk billing incentive for every Australian.”
The private ferry services covered by the review include the Brooklyn Ferry Services –Brooklyn to Dangar Island; Central Coast Ferries – Woy Woy to Empire Bay; Church Point Ferry Service – Scotland Island and western foreshore of Pittwater; and Palm Beach Ferries – Palm Beach to Mackerel Beach and the Basin and Palm Beach to Ettalong and Wagstaffe.
Henrick said in setting maximum prices, IPART would also consult with the operator of each service and consider the efficient costs of running it.
“We will also look at how these costs should be shared between fares paid by passengers and any subsidy paid by taxpayers,” she said.
“People can download the Call for Submissions paper from our website and can give us feedback by making a submission online or completing our passenger survey.”
IPART’s Call for Submissions paper and passenger survey are available from www.ipart. nsw.gov.au.
Submissions and the survey close on August 18.
Stakeholders will also have the opportunity to attend a public hearing and make submissions to a Draft Report with the Final Report and Determination to be provided to the Minister for Transport in November this year.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Member for The Entrance David Mehan with the new signs
Marine Rescue Norah Head was the first unit to be despatched; The beacon was eventually located and deactivated
Emma McBride being sworn in as an Assistant Minister by the Governor General Sam Mostyn
Coast Shelter launches wellbeing centre
Coast Shelter has launched The Retreat, a new wellbeing studio designed to support vulnerable individuals in the community.
The innovative space offers targeted programs and services to promote wellbeing and resilience.
The Retreat was made possible through $800,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund, enabling Coast Shelter to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness, domestic and/ or family violence, and other trauma.
The Retreat will host a range of programs, including Step Forward and Respect and Reflect, which have been funded by the Federal Government’s Strong and Resilient Communities grant program.
These programs aim to empower individuals and provide them with the tools and support they need to thrive.
Coast Shelter Co-CEO Crystal Lindsay welcomed the funding commitment.
“After more than three decades of serving this community, we know firsthand the challenges our young people face,” she said.
“We must support their futures and provide safe, purpose-built spaces that promote wellbeing, education, and personal development.
“This crucial funding will allow us to expand our services at a time when they’re needed most.
“We’re deeply thankful for this recognition of our work and the ongoing needs of our community.”
The Retreat was officially launched in the presence of community members, local leaders, and representatives of peak bodies, including Federal Member for Dobell and Assistant Minister for Mental
Health and Suicide Prevention Emma McBride.
Also on hand were State MPs Liesl Tesch (Gosford) and David Mehan (The Entrance).
“The Retreat is an important investment in the wellbeing of our community,” Mehan said.
“It will give vulnerable young people a safe space to get support and build the skills they need.” Tesch thanked the Coast Shelter team for their tireless work for the community.
“It is fantastic that The Retreat is officially open; it will offer a range of empowering programs designed to equip young people with the tools they need to thrive,” she said.
Tree planting rounds out wetland restoration
On Sunday, July 27, 50-60 volunteers will plant the final native trees at Pioneer Dairy Wetlands, capping off a long-term habitat restoration project for the critically endangered swift parrot, regent honeyeater and squirrel glider.
More than six hectares have been restored, with close to
3,000 native trees and shrubs planted through the project.
It has involved local schools, non-government organisations, contractors and community volunteers.
These have included the Community Environment Network and Central Coast Wetlands Land Care Group.
site
successful model for
recovery and community engagement.
The greatest Sydney Swift parrot habitat restoration project has seen 60 years of conservation work at Central Coast Wetlands Pioneer Dairy and surrounding areas along Pioneer Creek.
Launched under the Federal Government’s National Land Care Program, it is now supported by NSW Treasury. There has been a wide range of events and outreach activities from workshops to birdwatching walks engaging the local community during the course of the project.
The
now serves as a
habitat
An aerial view of the wetlands area
Liesl Tesch and Emma McBride cut the ribbon, along with Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch
Drones to help fast response to M1 traffic snarls
The M1 Motorway at Mooney Mooney will be one of the first two locations to have new drone-in-a-box technology installed to help respond to emergencies and traffic snarls.
The NSW Government is working to get an eye in the sky faster in response to problems on key road corridors in the Greater Sydney area, all controlled remotely with the push of a button from a central control room.
In an Australian first, Transport for NSW will be able to fly drones alongside and across highways for remotely piloted scheduled flights, without spotters, enabling them to rapidly respond to incidents near traffic hotspots.
The first drone-in-a-box units will be installed along the M1 at Mooney Mooney and the Hume Highway at Narellan.
The initiative falls under the Drones for Roads Program, announced by the Government in 2024.
From the Transport Management Centre (TMC) nerve centre, accredited pilots will deploy and supervise drones housed more than 50km away, slashing the time
it takes to get eyes on an incident.
In a first of its kind approval by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, teams will be able to carry out beyond visual line-ofsight operations beside traffic travelling at highway speeds of more than 100km/h.
Every flight is fully supervised by an accredited TMC pilot, and the drones are equipped with extra fail-safe measures, approved fight areas, and onboard diagnostics.
The TMC has reported a significant reduction in
disruption recovery times when a drone has been deployed to help get people moving faster after a traffic disruption on NSW roads.
In the past year drones have responded to about 150 incidents, more than 120 where there have been full lane closures.
Transport for NSW currently has a fleet of about 80 drones with five pilots based out of the TMC, and 100 accredited pilots across NSW.
Drone live streams provide critical real-time situational
awareness to Transport teams, helping push timely information to drivers through variable message signs and apps, such as Live Traffic.
In the recent Budget, the Government announced $2.8B over the next four years to deliver road safety initiatives.
These include: expanding road safety infrastructure statewide; trialing a demerit point return program to reward safe driving; publishing more safety ratings through the bicycle helmet star rating system; doubling mobile speed
data sharing and safety outcomes.
Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said Drone-in-a-box was a smarter, safer way to bust congestion on some of the state’s busiest roads after crashes or other incidents.
“This program … will cut response times, helping keep our roads and highways moving,” she said.
camera enforcement locations with 2,700 new sites; using mobile phone detection cameras to also catch seatbelt offences; closing a loophole so foreign license holders must switch to a NSW licence within six months; tightening requirements for international drivers to convert to a NSW licence; rolling out a trial of average speed cameras for light vehicles; and signing the National Road Safety Data Agreement with the Commonwealth to improve
“Drones are already helping us guide emergency responders through traffic to reach those who need help, set up detours, and get an overview of the situation streamed directly to those who need that information, the drone-in-abox makes the response quicker.
“Each drone-in-a-box will be able to cover a distance 8km from its home – so 16km of road.
“They can charge in just over half an hour, so it’s a very quick turnaround until they’re ready for their next mission.”
Transport for NSW Executive Director of Operations Management, Craig Moran, said they will enable quicker clearing of hazards and facilitate a return to normal operation much faster.
Enjoy the good life
What better way to open your next chapter than settling into a brand new apartment at Tarragal Glen Retirement Village. With every detail purposefully designed and quality finishes at every turn, Tarragal Glen Apartments offer a living experience without compromise.
Book your private tour of our stunning display apartment today!
One of the Drone-in-a-box units
NEWS IN BRIEF Community funding program
Central Coast Council and Delta have announced the Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program will open on August 11.
This program offers up to $30,000 per project for not-forprofit organisations to improve community infrastructure and services in Chain Valley Bay, Gwandalan, Mannering Park and Summerland Point.
Those unsure of their eligibility or how the process works can join free information sessions to be guided through the grant management process, with information on guidelines, eligibility and timeframes.
The information sessions will be held online on July 24 between 2pm and 3.30pm and at the Mannering Park Community Hall on July 30 between 10am and 11.30am.
Registration is essential as spots are limited.
For more details and to register contact the grants team on 4325 8861 or email grants@ centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Swampies do their bit for Coast Shelter
The Swampies Social Golf Club, also known as the Swampies, donated $5,000 to Coast Shelter at a special presentation at Everglades Country Club on July 8.
Service Evolution Manager of Coast Shelter, Kyleigh HollandQuinn, was on hand to accept the cheque from Swampies president Rod Blake.
Also in attendance were 26 members of the Swampies who heard from Holland-Quinn
about the work the charity does in the local area.
“Thank you, Swampies Social Golf Club, for choosing to support Coast Shelter,” she said.
“This donation will help us to support more Coasties experiencing or at risk of homelessness, or family and domestic violence.
“It takes a village”
Blake said the Swampies were pleased to help and
praised the work Coast Shelter did in times of need for the local community.
“The Swampies have a proud history of donations and assistance that has continued over many years,” he said.
“In fact, over the past 25 years or so, the Swampies have donated more than $32,000 to local causes, most of which has been donations to the Children’s Ward at Gosford Hospital and the Cancer Ward.”
Time to get rid of unwanted household chemicals
It’s time once again for Central Coast residents to safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals at two free Chemical CleanOut weekends to be run by Central Coast Council.
These events offer a safe and environmentally responsible way to clear out hazardous items from your home, shed, or garage.
The first will be held at Council’s Charmhaven Depot from 9am3.30pm on Saturday, August 2.
The depot is at 137 Chelmsford Rd, Charmhaven.
down the drain or placing them in the bin – is illegal and can harm the environment,” he said.
“These free Chemical CleanOut events are a great opportunity to safely and conveniently dispose of hazardous items – mark your calendar.”
Council’s Acting Director Infrastructure Services Andrew Pearce said a wide range of items would be accepted.
quantities are accepted.
“A limit of 20 litre or 20 kilogram applies per item, except for paint, which is accepted up to 100 litres in containers of 20 litres or less.”
The Chemical CleanOut program is a NSW Government Waste Less, Recycle More initiative brought to you by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Paintback, and Central Coast Council.
The facility remains closed to the public except for this event.
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said proper disposal of
The second event will take place at the former Kincumber Waste Management Facility in Cullens Rd from 9am-3.30pm on Saturday, August 9, and Sunday, August 10.
household chemicals is essential for community safety and environmental protection.
“Keeping old chemicals in the home can increase the risk of poisoning, while improper disposal – such as pouring them
“Residents can bring paints, pesticides, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, fluorescent globes and tubes – even unknown or unlabelled chemicals can be dropped off,” he said.
“Please note only household
For the full list of accepted and information on storing and transporting unwanted items safely, go to the NSW Household Chemical CleanOut webpage or search ‘chemical cleanout’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
A variety of chemicals will be accepted
Kyleigh Holland-Quinn received the cheque from Rod Blake
Time to fix
Wyoming Rd
Philip Morrison (CCN 494) – I hear you.
I too am hoping the current Council can do a better job of improving the Coast’s roads.
However I have a particular project to push – the southern end of Wyoming Rd, Wyoming.
Those who use it, including the passengers and bus drivers on Route 37 up and down the road, will know how shocking it is; pothole after pothole.
Local residents had been assured the southern end would be upgraded, including a footpath and kerb and guttering, after the northern end of the road was upgraded in the early 2000s.
Despite plans for the work being drawn up in 2012, we are now told the work will not
FORUM
Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum
happen in the foreseeable future – certainly not in the next 10 year program.
The “rehabilitation” work flagged in the map for 2027/28 at a cost of $280,053.00, is only another pothole filling exercise.
The road leads to the shopping centre, hotel and bistro, dental and medical surgeries and other conveniences.
It is a busy road – dangerous for the many pedestrians who use it, for many reasons.
Try as I may, I cannot discover why the upgrade is not considered a priority by Council.
Residents have been asking
for an upgrade for many years – some for over 50 years.
Email, Jul 15
Rosemary Long, Wyoming
Time for
government to stand up for Australia
After all the good work by our government to reduce medicine costs, Trump is now kowtowing to the big US pharmaceutical companies to gouge our health system.
This is the red line that Trump
has crossed and it is time to reciprocate as appeasement does not work with their administration.
I suggest temporarily shutting Americans out of Pine Gap and closing their businesses here including their fast food operations.
Email, Jul 10
John Strang, Woy Woy
Nuclear fantasy is dead
May I remind your correspondent that the Australian voters have twice rejected his nuclear fantasy, first with Morrison and then Dutton (“Society wants reliable energy”, CCN 494).
Furthermore, he also seems to have forgotten that the CSIRO, our peak scientific body, has declared nuclear
ON THE BEAT
Ourimbah notorious for speeding in school zones
The Pacific Hwy at Ourimbah – northbound and southbound – has been named as two of the worst five locations in regional NSW for motorists speeding in school zones.
During 2024/25 northbound drivers clocked up 2,970 fines, ranking them as the second worst speedsters in a school zone.
Police issued 929 fines to southbound drivers at Ourimbah, making it the fifth worse location in regional NSW for speeding in school zones.
Drivers are being called on to slow down as school zones are now back in operation as school resumes after the holidays.
School zones are active from 8am to 9:30amand2:30pm to 4pm on school days.
New government data reveals that more than 183,000 school zone speeding offences were
recorded in NSW in the past financial year.
Nearly 70 per cent (125,000plus) occurred during active school zone hours – that’s more than 340 drivers every day choosing to speed past schools and young children.
Since 2019, 106 pedestrians aged five to 16 have been hit by vehicles in active school zones.
Two children have been killed and 38 seriously injured.
The State Government says it prioritises safety outside schools with more than 6,800 school zone flashing lights now installed across NSW, and an ongoing commitment to have at least one set of flashing lights at every school zone.
About 1,500 school crossing
supervisors support more than 980 schools.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the data showed that too many drivers hadn’t heeded the safety message.
“Over 125,000 people made the decision to speed in an active school zone last year,” she said.
“That’s 125,000 drivers who made the selfish decision to put children’s lives at ris.
“We need motorists to be alert and to slow down; there’s no excuse for speeding around schools.
“As we head into the second half of the school year, I’m calling on every motorist to put safety first.
“Any death on our roads is one too many, and being a good role model around kids is the first step in shaping safe drivers for the future.”
Wanted on two arrest warrants
The Domestic Violence Team attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District is seeking information to locate
He is wanted on two arrest warrants issued by Wyong and Gosford Local Courts respectively.
McGee is described as being 28 years old, of Aboriginal appearance, 165cm tall, with medium build and short brown hair.
He is known to frequent the Ourimbah and Gosford areas.
Anyone with information about the whereabouts of
energy to be more expensive than the alternatives.
Finally, he has still to explain just how the radioactive waste products will be disposed of; dump it in the outback as once proposed, for the next generation to solve?
Nuclear energy (i.e. fission) is dead; get used to it.
Email, Jul 15
Dave Horsfall, North Gosford
Filling in potholes is not the answer
After waiting several years for South St at Killarney Vale to be repaired, I saw two Council people with a bucket of gravel and a shovel filling in the potholes on Saturday, July 19.
This street needs to be ripped up and a new surface installed, not more potholes filled in.
I thought with the new Council there might have been a chance of improving the Central Coast in the way we had expected.
If filling in potholes is councillors’ answer to our disgusting roads they should go.
Council has a 10-year plan and if this type of repair is what they propose, they will soon be so far behind there will be no hope.
Repair the roads properly and they might last 10 years; do what you are doing and they might last 10 months.
I am disappointed with the Council and can only hope things will change for the better and not continue the way they are.
ON THE BEAT BRIEFS
Ourimbah collision
A man aged in his 30s was flown to hospital by Westpac Rescue Helicopter after a collision between a motorbike and a car near Ourimbah.
The accident happened at about 3.30pm on Sunday, July 13, northbound on the M1 Motorway just north of the Ourimbah interchange.
NSW Ambulance paramedics stabilised the rider’s condition on-site before he was transported to Bill Sohier Park where the rescue helicopter landed.
The helicopter critical care team treated the man for his injuries before airlifting him to John Hunter Hospital for further treatment.
Facing six warrants
Tuggerah Lakes Police have extradited a man from Queensland to face six outstanding warrants in NSW.
He will face Downing Centre Local Court on July 30 on charges related to sexual assault without consent, possess/use prohibited weapon without permit, aggravated break and enter, stalk/intimidate cause physical harm, larceny and supply prohibited drug.
Queensland Police arrested
McGee, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers. com.au
The community are also advised not to approach this person, if seen to simply contact Crime Stoppers.
the 34-year-old man on July 11 and he appeared before Gladstone Magistrates Court on July 14 when an extradition order was granted to NSW.
On July 15 the man was flown back to NSW where he was taken to Mascot Police Station and charged with six outstanding warrants for the above-mentioned offences. He has been remanded in custody until his appearance in court on July 30.
Nabbed at Wyong
General Duties Police from Wyong Police Station arrested a man from Orange who was reported breaking into cars at Wyong.
Police responded to Triple Zero reports on July 16 that the 30-year-old was breaking into cars parked behind businesses on the Pacific Hwy at Wyong and making threats of physical
harm to people who approached him.
He was apprehended and arrested following a foot pursuit.
He was in possession of goods taken from the vehicles and had an outstanding arrest warrant.
He Was charged with various offences and held in custody until his court appearance.
Email, Jul 19 Phil Morrison, Bateau Bay
Jesse McGee.
Jesse McGee
Plea for motorists to slow down around schools
Birdsong brought alive in music
After making a stunning debut in 2023 with their eccentric techno-classical ode to the 90s, The Surge, Ensemble Offspring are set to take the Central Coast to new heights when they perform their concert Songbirds at The Art House on August 2.
Evoking the weird and wonderful sounds of the Australian Bush, Songbirds brings the sounds of nature to you.
The musical guest list includes the pied butcherbird, magpies, a laughing kookaburra, a frenzied flock of rainbow lorikeets, and even a nightingale, captured through a trio of flute, clarinet and percussion.
Songbirds feature Ensemble members Lamorna Nightingale (flutes), Jason Noble (clarinets) and Claire Edwardes (percussion).
Ensemble Offspring is one of Australia’s leading music groups, standing at the forefront of musical innovation.
Led by internationally acclaimed percussionist Claire Edwardes, it unites the country’s most fearless and virtuosic instrumentalists.
Edwardes says Songbirds is a celebration of Australian birdsong and of nature’s original musicians, with every piece an original Australian chamber work commissioned by the Ensemble.
“Our composers have woken
CLASSICAL MUSIC
up with birds, hung out with them on their balconies, and documented their songs,” she said.
“Their scintillating and playful music captures virtuosic avian displays, Indigenous perspectives and the sounds of the bush.
“Nature comes to you as we literally riff with the birds.”
All tickets include a complimentary drink to enjoy while watching the show, served upon entry.
Songbirds by Ensemble Offspring will play The Art House, Wyong, at 7.30pm on Saturday, August 2.
To book go to thearthousewyong.com.au
The Art House Presents SONGBIRDS By Ensemble Offspring SAT 02 AUG 7:30PM
Be transported to the Australian bush as a trio of clarinet, flute and percussion evoke the weird and wonderful sounds of our native birdlife. A must see for classical music fans.
Ensemble Offspring - Claire Edwardes, Lamorna Nightingale and Jason Noble
Claire Edwardes and Jason Noble Photo: Victor Frankovski
Comedy Club time in Gosford
The Gosford Comedy Club returns on Friday, July 25, putting women front and centre with a firecracker lineup at the Fun Haus Factory.
The monthly event has become a staple on the Aussie comedy circuit, showcasing not only the biggest and boldest touring talent to the Central Coast but also the best midcareer misfits and emerging funny folk.
Every show is a mixed bag of diverse genders, cultures, sexualities, and perspectives – all firing on full absurdist, observational, and occasionally political cylinders.
This month’s headliner is Julia Wilson.
An Aussie comedy queen and ex-bouncer/truckie with a degree in accounting she swears she’ll never use, Wilson is a wild force of nature.
She’s headlined across six continents, survived a lion bite, and made thousands laugh.
If you like your comedy full throttle and your stories slightly terrifying, she’s your woman.
Hosting the night is awardwinning comedian Jen Carnovale, whose razor-sharp observational humour and laidback wit have taken her from Comedy Central to the Edinburgh Fringe.
Joining them are three standouts from Sydney’s thriving scene: Lily Starr, a rising talent known for turning
personal mayhem into glorious, sell-out solo shows; Joshua Khoury, a warm and quickwitted comedy curator championing inclusive grassroots laughs through shows like Big Ed’s Comedy; and Mitch Garling, a dry, sharp storyteller whose awardwinning short film One Up and work with Fox Sports and Stan Sport prove he’s as comfortable behind the camera as he is behind the mic.
Doors will open at 6pm with $12 cocktails, $6 schooners, and Beau’s Burgers . The comedy kicks off at 7.30pm.
Get your tickets at funhausfactory.org.au
Little Locals Facebook page for families proves popular
Central Coast mum Belinda Reid has launched a new Facebook page, Little Locals Central Coast, to help families discover kidfriendly events, school holiday activities, and local attractions around the Central Coast.
The page, which already has a growing following in its first two weeks of release, features
reviews of family experiences and a calendar of what’s on for kids from toddlers to tweens across the Central Coast.
Reid is the mother of two very active young children who all love getting out and about and spending time doing activities as a family.
She found that there are so many great events happening all across the Central Coast, but
they can be hard to find and often people are not discovering them until they have already passed.
To make life easier, she created Little Locals Central Coast to share the kind of events that she was already looking for herself and said she was proud to see it beginning to resonate with other families.
“I’ve had a really pleasing
Book Review by Julie Chessman
Fierceland
By Omar Musa
This selection had a welldeserved 5/5 on goodreads and there is a reason for that.
Fierceland, the latest poetry collection by acclaimed Australian writer Omar Musa, is a bold and electrifying exploration of identity, resilience and social justice.
Musa, known for his dynamic voice and ability to blend poetic lyricism with raw storytelling, delivers in this collection a powerful testament to the experiences of marginalised communities in contemporary Australia.
The poems pulse with urgency and passion, addressing themes such as race, class, masculinity and cultural heritage.
Musa’s work is deeply rooted in his own background as a Malaysian-Australian with Indigenous heritage, and
this intersectionality informs much of the collection’s emotional and political force.
Throughout the volume, Musa grapples with systemic injustice while also celebrating the strength and diversity of his communities.
One of the collection’s strengths is its ability to fuse the personal and the political seamlessly.
Musa’s use of vivid imagery and rhythmic language heightens the impact of his messages.
Stylistically, Musa blends contemporary spoken word influences with traditional poetic forms, making Fierceland accessible yet sophisticated.
His background as a performer is evident in the rhythm and cadence of the poems.
Fierceland serves as a call to action, urging readers to reckon with histories of oppression while imagining more inclusive futures.
Musa is a former winner of the Australian Poetry Slam and the Indian Ocean Poetry Slam.
He has released three hip hop albums and two poetry books.
Julie Chessman
See the full book review and lots more book reviews on our website scan the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/book-reviews
start to the page, I’ve had 326 followers in the first two weeks and my reels are getting between 200-500 views,” she said.
The page has quickly become a go-to guide for time-poor parents looking for accessible, affordable outings, particularly during the school holidays.
Followers can expect engaging reels, helpful reviews,
and even the occasional ticket giveaway in partnership with local businesses and event organisers.
Reid said she hoped to continue building the page into a trusted community hub, shining a spotlight on the many hidden gems the Central Coast has to offer families.
To follow or get your event featured, visit littlelocals.au
Craig McLachlan live and intimate at Avoca Beach
Get ready for a night to remember as Australian singer, songwriter and actor Craig McLachlan brings his exciting Live and Intimate- Six String Stories stage show to Avoca Beach Theatre on July 25.
McLachlan has entertained millions of people for more than three decades and his successes include The Doctor Blake Mysteries, The Rocky Horror Show, CSI Los Angles, Packed To The Rafters, McLeod’s Daughters, Grease, Bugs, Catherine The Great, Superfire, Hating Alison Ashley, Chittty Chitty Bang Bang, City Homicide, The Cut, Special Ops, Redfern Now, Deep Water, Restoration, Home and Away, Neighbours – the list goes on and continues to grow.
McLachlan is a Gold Logie and ARIA winner, three-time Silver Logie winner and Helpmann Award winner and has several Australian and UK hit singles to his name along with gold and platinum records.
Join McLachlan as he takes the audience on a strange musical journey, playing, singing, riffing and chatting his way through the stories behind the stories.
Having entertained audiences the world over for almost 40 years, McLachlan is one of Australia’s most beloved and versatile performers.
As a screen actor, McLachlan has starred in more than 40 television and film projects, from drama to comedy, he has honed his skills alongside some of the world’s greats including Jeanne Moreau, Sir Ian Richardson, Omar Sharif, Catherine Zeta-Jones and John Jarratt.
Whether tackling lead roles in emotionally complex real-life stories like Heroes Mountain,
the moving story of Stuart Diver and the Thredbo disaster, or playing the late Michael Chamberlain in the gripping mini-series Through My Eyes based on the book of the same name by Lindy ChamberlainCreighton or creating wonderful characters like Dr Lucien Blake, the mystery solving medico at the heart of the internationally acclaimed The Doctor Blake Mysteries, McLachlan approaches every role with energy and enthusiasm.
Catch the show at Avoca Beach Theatre, July 25, from 7.30pm.
Belinda Reid
Craig McLachlan
Julia Wilson; Jen Carnovale
OUT&ABOUT BRIEF
Join the fun club
Wyee Probus Club, which calls itself the Fun Club, is celebrating eight years of friendship, laughter and good times.
“Fun is our middle name,” a spokesperson said.
“From scenic picnics and Opal Card adventures to places such as Manly, Watsons Bay, Newcastle and elsewhere, to our annual getaway in a cabin, caravan, or tent — we know how to make the most of our retirement.
“We also enjoy regular lunches at local clubs and cafés, and at our monthly meetings, we celebrate birthdays, welcome entertaining guest speakers, and share a great meal together.”
Anyone who is retired or semi-retired and aged 55 and over is invited to join the fun.
For more information about the club, call or text Jeff on 0416 127 148 or email wyeeprobus@gmail.com
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Thought-provoking comedy hits the Woy Woy stage
Woy Woy Little Theatre (WWLT) is set to bring the Tony award-winning comedy Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike to the Peninsula Theatre for three weeks from July 25.
It has been the cross to bear for the Hardwicke siblings that their theatre-mad parents named them after characters in the works of Russian playwright Anton Chekhov.
But that is the least of their concerns.
Now in their sixties, brother and sister Vanya and Sonia have settled into a humdrum existence following the deaths of their parents, for whom they were carers.
Breaking the peaceful if boring routine, their sister Masha arrives for the weekend with her much younger lover Spike – the latest in a string of men in the life of the exotic theatre and movie star.
With dire predictions of calamity to come from psychic housekeeper Cassandra and the arrival on the scene of the Hardwickes’ attractive young neighbour Nina, the stage is set for much hilarity and a good deal of soul searching.
Director Terry Collins has been wanting to present the
play since she came across it some five years ago.
“When I first read it, I thought it was one of the funniest plays I had ever read,” she said.
“Every time we applied for the rights they weren’t available – until this year.
“The name of the play might not be well known but I think it is going to delight our audiences.
“What appealed to me most was that although it is a comedy with some hilarious lines, it is also a beautifully crafted look
at the relationships of three siblings who are getting older and the various people in their lives.
“It is a touching and poignant examination of sibling relationships as we get older.
“An added bonus for me was the Chekhov references sprinkled throughout; these are sure to delight anyone who knows his work.
“But even if you’ve never heard of Chekhov, there’s plenty to please audiences of all ages from 16 up.”
Collins has assembled a topnotch cast to bring Christopher Durang’s award-winning script to life.
Durang is known for his outrageous comedies that, underneath the absurdity, have profound searches for optimism and connection with others.
The story told by the endearingly eccentric characters in this play show us why Durang is a member of the American Theatre Hall of Fame.
Playing Sonia and Vanya are
Due to a cast injury, director Collins stepped into the role of Masha less than three weeks from opening.
Versatile favourite Chris Cherry plays the wacky Cassandra and regular audiences will also remember Jake Cain-Roser as he plays a character unlike any he has played before in Spike.
Rounding out the cast is a delightful newcomer to WWLTNAISDA student Alicia Medbury, who brings a freshness and delightful naivety to the role of Nina.
With a stunning set by Steve Pembroke, complemented by clever lighting by Lloyd Grounds and a music track featuring the music of Rachmaninoff (plus one surprise which audiences will just have to wait for), the show promises a hilarious and thought-provoking theatre experience.
Audiences will be the first to experience the theatre’s new carpet and seating, with more accessibility seats available. There will be 10 performances, including four matinees, over three weekends from July 25, with bookings available at woywoylt.com.au
WWLT stalwarts Darienne (Daz) Knight and Andy Kabanoff.
Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s welcome return
Popular Hardies Archies exhibition makes a return
There was an amazing turnout for the opening night of Hardies Archies 2025 held at Hardys Bay Community Club on July 12. This exhibition was the brainchild of a group of local artists known as the Garage Girls and involved local artists
THU 24 JUL
Belle Phoenix & Jeffrey Wegener (Duet): Link & Pin, Woy Woy 9pm
John Power | Wander and Dwell Exhibition: Gosford Regional Gallery * to Aug 29
Emerging 2025: Gosford Regional Gallery * to Aug 24
FRI 25 JUL
THE SOUNDS OF SIMON & GARFUNKEL: LAYCOCK ST COMMUNITY THEATRE, WYOMING 7:30PM
Beginners Chess Class: Kincumber Library 10.30am
Disco Revolution –Night Fever: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 7pm
Mates With Anita And Loomis: Hardys Bay Club 6pm
Masif Takeover: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 8pm
painting a local people, but remaining anonymous.
It is sponsored by local businesses, Fat Goose, Ray White Real Estate and Mooch Inside.
A panel of judges selects first, second and third prizes and the community votes for the ever-
popular People’s Choice award.
The highly anticipated awards night will be held on Friday, August 22, and the exhibition closes on August 31.
It is open for viewing when the club is open, Thursday from 3pm and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon.
MEL BUTTLE: LAYCOCK ST COMMUNITY THEATRE, WYOMING 7PM
VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE: WOY WOY LITTLE THEATRE * 10 AUGUST
DJ Simon Pugsley: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm Gosford
Comedy Club: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 7.30pm
Craig Mclachlan Live & Intimate - Six String Stories: Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm
Lion Island Single Launch + Fear Of Horses: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm
Sylvia (romantic comedy) by A.R. Gurney: Red Tree Theatre, Tuggerah * to 2 August
Dirty Deeds - The AC/DC Show: Gosford RSL 8pm
SAT 26 JUL
Book Launch: Janice Morris: An Educators Handbook (on Childcare): Gosford Leagues Club - Piano Bar (18+) 11am
The Art House will welcome back long-time friends the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for one night only on August 8 at 7.30pm.
Featuring beautiful music by two of the great Romantic composers, Dvorák and Richard Strauss, the performance will also shine a spotlight on the world-class woodwind section of the orchestra.
The orchestra will perform Strauss’s Wind Serenade and Suite for Wind Instruments as well as Dvorák’s Wind Serenade.
Audiences will be delighted to sit back and enjoy this sensational auditory experience in The Art House’s 500-seat proscenium arch theatre.
Richard Strauss’ two early masterpieces for wood instruments are full of colour, contrast and lots of fun in the characterful music.
Antonín Dvorák’s Wind Serenade builds over four gorgeous movements, from lyrical to lively and rhythmic.
Central Coast classical music aficionados can expect to hear the extraordinary range of tones, colours and textures of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s woodwind section.
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra is committed to touring regional venues to ensure that all can have access to such calibre of fine music and The Art House will continue to be a part of that mission.
The Beautiful Girls: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 8pm
Retro DJ Show - “Groovy Gregg”: Elanora Hotel, East Gosford 8pm
STUN Magazine presents Electric Disco: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 6pm Luke McGregor – Okay, Wow!: The Art House, Wyong 8pm
Bathtub Gin Orchestra: Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm
Harrison Hoven / Kimberlee Sings Vintage: Gosford RSL Club 3pm / 8pm
Ruby and the Red Horse: Hardys Bay Club 6pm
SUN 27 JUL
Pete Ross & The Sapphire: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 2pm
National Tree Day 2025: Killcare Beach & Porters Creek, Wyong 9am
The Remedy: Hardys Bay Club 1pm
Daniel Friend Duo: Gosford RSL Club 1pm Simone
Waddell Presents: Great Ladies Of Jazz: Avoca Beach Theatre 1.30pm
MON 28 JUL
Shed Social - Berkeley Vale: Women’s Shed Central Coast, Berkeley Vale 10am
TUE 29 JUL
Bolton Clarke talk: First Aid: Tuggerah Library 10am
WED 30 JUL
Chain Valley Colliery Community Grants Program Information Session: InPerson: Mannering Park Community Hall 10am
An Evening with Dervla McTiernan: Author talk livestream: Umina Beach Library 7pm
Oh Bee Three Jazz & Blues featuring Phoebe Haselden: Old Pub Woy Woy Hotel 7pm
Lady Lyon - Cub Tour: Mumbo Jumbo’s Beachhouse, Terrigal 5pm
THU 31 JUL
OUT&ABOUT BRIEF
Mega guinea pig show
The NSW Cavy Club will present its 2025 Mega Show at Wyee Community Hall on Sunday, July 27.
There will be a huge raffle table, healthy cavies for sale from registered breeders and feed, hay, supplies, merchandise and gift items available to buy.
Entries will be taken from 9am with judging to begin at 10.30 am.
Award categories will include best adult bore, best adult sow, heaviest cavy, best young bore, best young sow, fancy dress, best diorama, best single colour, craziest hair, fastest muncher, and most colourful.
Gain gain up to date and correct information on caring for guinea pigs.
If they don’t own guinea pigs but are thinking about getting some, this is the place to be.
Lunch will be catered by local business Marshy’s Munchies. See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Author talk: Peter Grose presents Yvon’s Great Adventure: Erina Library 10am
Teen Lego Club: Erina Library 11am
General First Aid Course: Women’s Shed Central Coast, Berkeley Vale 11am
Artist Talks: Sculptor & Artist Maksim Kuznetcov: Deep Water Plaza, Woy Woy (near Reject Shop) 6:30pm
FRI 1 AUG
Central Coast Heart (Netball) Sport Luncheon 2025: Wallarah Bay Recreation Club 11am
Pen Pushers writing group: Toukley Library 10am
Author Talk: Dianne Yarwood presents The Wakes: Erina Library 2pm
SAT 2 AUG
SONGBIRDS BY ENSEMBLE OFFSPRING: THE ART HOUSE
WYONG 7:30PM
Portrait of Trent Botfield and the real Trent Botfield
Sydney Symphony Orchestra makes welcome return to The Art House
Art Hall 25 is the latest exhibition heading to the Gosford Regional Gallery’s Community Gallery.
Set to open on Thursday, August 21, the annual show brings together a curated collection from 20 accomplished local artists, showcasing diversity in style, medium and subject.
Paul Haggith, a founding member of the Art Hall Group, says the collective formed over 30 years ago through a shared commitment to figurative drawing and pooling resources.
“Hiring halls and models is cheaper as a group, but the main driver is the art,” he said.
Known for his large-scale cityscapes and water scenes,
Art Hall 25 comes to regional gallery
Haggith often paints en plein air.
“Painting outdoors gives immediacy, but if you haven’t studied life drawing, figures look stiff,” he said.
Many of his works feature people immersed in water.
He regularly exhibits in the Gosford Art Prize, Sulman and Wynne prize exhibitions.
Haggith also embraces digital painting on iPad as a way to make art more accessible.
“They still take hours and multiple layers, but I’m happy to print these,” he said.
“Prints are more affordable; I don’t like photographic reproductions of my traditionally painted pieces.
“I want to make art that
people can live with and sit with.
“Like classical music—you can return to it again and again.”
Also on show will be work by
newcomer Angela Brennan née Lysytsya, who was welcomed by the collective.
“This group is so kind,” she said.
“Even as a new member,
Time to look into your own story
You’ve seen shows such as Who do you think you are?, Long Lost Family and DNA Secrets – and now it’s time to investigate your own story.
August is Family History Month and Wyong Family History Group will open its
If you have ever wondered what your family’s history is, this is the day to start the process of finding out.
Experienced members will be available to help with the process of research from 10am-3pm.
Normally there is a cost for
Email Wfhg06@gmail.com
with a suggested one-hour time slot, and an indication of your area of interest.
You will be paired with a member who has experience in that research.
The cottage can be found
at 6 Ranken’s Court Wyong, just off Alison Rd.
Parking is available behind the main building and there are a couple of disability spaces at the front.
There will also be activities happening throughout the day.
For more information call 4351 2211 from 10am-3pm Tuesday-Thursday.
they’ve encouraged my painting and drawing.”
Brennan brings a rich background as a fashion designer, costume designer and stylist in Ukrainian film, theatre, and music video.
She ran a successful studio in Kyiv, with clients such as Ukraine’s Eurovision and Miss Universe competitors.
“I worked with a lot of Russian stars and Ukrainian stars, at a time when the countries were friendly,” she said.
Now living on the Central Coast, Brennan said her recent painting, A Tired Young Mom’s Dream, offers a poignant blend of figurative art and allegory.
“There’s always an element
of fantasy in my work,” she said.
“I want people to see the world as their creation.”
She paints with gouache, often referred to as opaque watercolour.
“I love the colours, but it is a challenging medium as it dries very quickly,” she said.
Art Hall 25 runs from Thursday, August 21, to Wednesday, September 3, with an opening night celebration on Friday, August 22, at 6 pm.
Throughout the free exhibition, the Art Hall Group will also present public demonstrations and artist talks.
The Wyong Family History Group cottage
Ivona Rose
Paul Haggith is a founding member of the Art Hall Group
59. Everlasting (7)
63. Trace (7)
65. Surpass (5)
67. South American rodent (5)
68. Enclosures (5)
70. Stuck (7)
72. Core (7)
74. Pilot (7)
75. Sign of assent (3)
76. Tooth (7)
77. Morning repast (9)
78. Contemplated (8)
79. Let in (8)
80. Emphasis (6)
1. Stylish elegance (7)
2. Cloistered (9)
3. Fate (7)
5. Bottomless pit (5)
6. Spears of frozen water (7)
7. Luxury (8)
8. Voter (7)
9. Valuable quality (5)
10. Seabird (7)
11. Precipitation (8)
12. New (5)
13. Festival (8)
14. Part of a parachute (6)
23. Countries (7)
25. Outstanding (5)
MISSING LINK
MISSING LINK
27. Wrong (9)
28. Steps (5)
29. Halo (4)
31. Straight away (9)
33. Forestalled (9)
34. Foster (7)
36. Paddle (3)
37. Appease (7)
38. Beverage (3)
40. Villainous (9)
41. Glowing (7)
47. Garden with shaped shrubs (7)
49. Decoration (5)
50. Lair (3)
51. Plunge (4)
52. Pull (3)
54. Thicket (5)
59. Schooled (8)
60. Talk terms (9)
61. Sere (8)
62. Guitar pick (8)
63. Empty (6)
64. Before (7)
66. Card game (7)
67. Pharmacist (7)
68. Field sport (7)
69. Fairies (7)
70. Sound (5)
71. Cut into cubes (5)
73. Fur of the marten (5)
Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.
Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.
To celebrate World Snake Day on July 16, the Australian Reptile Park proved that when it comes to snakes, size absolutely matters.
The Park has gone large scale, weighing and measuring its two biggest and most impressive reptiles: Fang the reticulated python and Jockey the Burmese python.
These colossal snakes were carefully carried from their enclosures into the sunshine for their annual health checks, an effort that took four experienced keepers due to their sheer size and strength.
While basking in the sun is great enrichment for the snakes, it’s no easy task.
As powerful constrictors, a
When it comes to snakes, size matters
single misstep during handling could result in a potentially fatal situation, making safety and precision absolutely critical.
Jockey was up first, measuring 3.7m and weighing in at a hefty 56kg, a solid 4kg heavier than last year.
His size was calculated using a piece of twine and a tape measure, a gentle method designed to minimise stress.
Next up was Fang, the Park’s rapidly growing reticulated python, and she lived up to her name, stretching out to a jawdropping 5.7m and weighing 48kg, up 3kg from the previous year.
As the largest snake species in the world, reticulated pythons like Fang can reach
“Fang is especially impressive.
“She’s packing on size fast, and I have no doubt she’ll overtake Jockey in the near future.
“When it comes to pythons, size really does matter, it tells us they’re thriving.”
Regular measurements like this are key indicators of a snake’s health, helping the team track diet, growth, and overall wellbeing in these magnificent reptiles.
Exciting double bill for folk fans
beautifully, which is exactly what we like to see,” Head of Reptiles Dylan Wallis said.
Together, the duo creates truly beautiful music in the style of such greats as Tommy Emanual, Chet Aitkins, Ry Cooder and Leon Redbone.
Their debut album Peddling Rag, recorded in the Blue Mountains, will be available on
The second half of the afternoon will see Bruce
He may be a solo act, but you
Over the past 30 years he has appeared at almost 200 folk festivals across the country.
Many of his original songs have been recorded by artists such as Eric Bogle, Joe Dolce
This World Snake Day, the Australian Reptile Park invited Aussies to look beyond the fear and into the fascinating world of snakes, from the small and venomous to the long and powerful.
and a host of other Australian and international acts.
His act includes plenty of audience involvement and usually a few surprises. He will make you laugh, cry and think with his keen sense of humour carefully capturing the absurdities of life.
His serious songs are both moving and challenging – he is not afraid to tackle the hard issues.
The concert will take place at 2pm on Sunday, July 27, at the Everglades Country Club. Bookings are essential at www.trybooking.com/DCULK or via the link on the Troubadour web page.
Annika Barker was one of a team from the Australian Reptile Park to weigh and measure the park’s big snakes
Bruce Watson; The Paper Collar Pickers
Education and schools
Education and schools
Transport and state roads
Transport and state roads
Police and emergency services
Police and emergency services
Health and hospitals
Health and hospitals
Congratulatory messages Congratulatory messages
Business & Property
Wyong a top 10 performing postcode in property sales
Postcode 2259 encompassing Wyong and surrounding suburbs has made the list of top 10 performing postcodes for all of NSW from April to June.
Property tech firm InfoTrack has released its latest data showing the postcodes with the greatest volume of property sales last quarter.
Postcode 2259 joined only two other regional areas on the list – Jervis Bay (making its
Postcode 2259 which encompasses Wyong and surrounding
debut) and North Wagga Wagga.
Liverpool has retained its crown as the most popular location for first homebuyers for the fourth consecutive quarter.
InfoTrack’s Head of Property Australia Lee Bailie said the postcode of 2170 (Liverpool) maintained its position in number one spot last quarter, cementing its dominance for an entire year in the first homebuyer market.
“Postcode 2170 encompasses over a dozen suburbs, including Liverpool, Moorebank, and Prestons,” Bailie said.
“It forms part of a key growth corridor in Sydney’s southwest, driven by major infrastructure projects, such as those linked to the Western Sydney Airport, and strong employment prospects.”
The postcode of 2112, covering Ryde, Putney and Denistone East, made its first
appearance on the top 10 list for first homebuyers last quarter, coming in in 10th position.
Sales data across all buying cohorts showed that while Greater Western Sydney dominated the list, the idyllic Jervis Bay made its debut on the list, in ninth position.
“The postcode of 2540, which primarily covers areas in and around Jervis Bay, is a coastal location which has long been
popular as a holiday destination,” Bailie said.
“That single postcode encompasses 70 suburbs, including the well-known locations of Hyams Beach, Callala Bay, and Huskisson.
“This regional location appeals to those seeking natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, whilst still maintaining a close community connection.
“Buyers are looking to those areas outside of the major
cities where they can get higher value for their dollar, be it more bedrooms or added land.
Interestingly, the data revealed a shift in preference for property types, with vacant land proving a popular choice last quarter.
“Vacant land was the only property type to record an increase, rising to 9.45% last quarter compared to 8.33% at the start of the year,” he said.
suburbs is a top 10 performer
Local clubs serve up perfect plates
The Ary at Toukley and Budgewoi Soccer Club have scored major wins in the 2025 Your Local Club Perfect Plate Awards.
The Ary Toukley took top gong in the Central Coast category and Budgewoi Soccer Club was victorious in the Newcastle category.
Five statewide winners and 13 regional winners were announced at the Perfect Plate Awards Night at Panthers Penrith on Tuesday, July 15.
The Ary Toukley has now taken out first place in the Central Coast region for four out of the past five years.
The Ary CEO Trevor Haynes
said the winning dish was barramundi topped with zucchini flowers filled with king prawns.
“Food has been very important for us in our community,” he said.
“We really respect the competition and we particularly like that it gives us opportunity to show off our great team and the opportunity to really talk to our community.”
He said members were very excited about the win.
Budgewoi Soccer Club was successful with a fragrant curry broth.
Brandon Lim, Angkasa restaurant manager at the club,
said the win was exciting for such a small club.
Eateries from 171 clubs across the state created special competition dishes for the 2025 Awards, with members and patrons invited to score the meals out of five and cast their votes between May 2 and June 15.
More than 98,300 Perfect Plate dishes were purchased by hungry diners, with the competition’s ambassadors –celebrity chefs Matt Moran and Courtney Roulston, and NRL legend Nathan Hindmarsh –visiting more than 60 participating clubs to meet the competing chefs and taste their creations.
“Every year, clubs continue to take it up a level when it comes to the quality of food, and this year was no exception,” Moran said.
“I was really impressed with the enthusiasm of the chefs I met as part of my Perfect Plate road trip.
“They were so passionate about what they created and I love how many of them chose to highlight local produce.”
Roulston said the diversity and creativity of club food has come a long way since she began her career working at Putney Bowling Club.
“You can walk into your local club these days and find the
A partnership made for business
sorts of dishes that in years gone by could only be found in a top-end eatery – and they are at a price point that people can afford,” she said.
“I loved getting out to clubs in Sydney and across regional NSW to taste their competition dishes.
“I was blown away by the originality of club chefs.”
Hindmarsh taste-tested up to eight Perfect Plate meals in one day.
“It was a tough job, but someone had to do it,” he said.
“The calibre of competition dishes this year was outstanding.”
ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca
and
A $100 dining voucher was given away every day of the competition, while the two diners who voted for the most Perfect Plate dishes will each win a ‘foodie getaway’ for two valued at $3,500.
The two winners will be announced later this month.
To find out more about the Your Local Club Perfect Plate Awards visit perfectplate.com. au.
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Riant said Perfect Plate, now in its fifth year, was an opportunity to shine the spotlight on the quality and diversity of club dining,
the dedicated chefs who worked in the industry.
The team from The Ary accept their award
Budgewoi Soccer Club representatives at the awards
BUSINESS BRIEF
Free tax help
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) Tax Help program is to low-income workers who have not earned any income under an ABNand have earned $70,000 or less.
It is run by accredited volunteers with appointments to be held at the Gosford CBD Community Hub every second Thursday from 9.30am to 1.30pm from August 7 through to October 30.
For appointments, participants will need to bring their myGov details from any one of the past five years, income statements or payment summaries from all sources, receipts for gifts, donations and work-related expenses, details of any child support payments and details of spouse’s (married or de-facto) taxable income or a reasonable estimate if you had a spouse at any time during the financial year.
For appointments call 4326 7359.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Hobbies factory is more than just a shop
The Hobbies Factory, the only hobby shop on the Central Coast, is celebrating its fourth anniversary this month.
The small family-run business was opened at Ourimbah during the COVID pandemic by hobby expert Sacha Meale.
He and his two staff members have a collective experience in hobbies of more than 100 years.
More than just a shop, The Hobbies Factory offers many services including scale plastic build kits, cars, trucks, planes and tanks and also services and stocks radio control cars.
With a background in toy retail, Meale decided to combine his passion and his expertise to provide a unique service that not only sells products, but is also home to community events including school holiday workshops.
“I realised the Central Coast needed a hobby shop,” he said.
“We offer more than just selling products.
“We are very community minded and for the past two years, every school holidays, we’ve held in-store workshops where the kids can learn how to build and paint plastic kits.”
One extremely popular workshop sees children customise Hot Wheels cars by stripping them down before adding their own touch with acrylic paints.
The shop is also used by members of the Central Coast
Makers
for their monthly meetings.
“We have two fold-out tables that are free and used as workspaces for many different people that walk into the shop,” Meale said.
“It’s an active work space
where people can come and fix things or just have a chat.
“We do it all, we have a spray booth, a compressor and drills.”
The shop also offers online workshops for building plastic kits and instore airbrush courses.
It also does radio control car repairs and stocks remote control car tools and spares. The
is open seven days a week between 10am and 4pm at 3/53 Pacific Hwy, Ourimbah.
Model
Men’s Shed
Hobbies Factory
The Hobbies Factory at Ourimbah offers the lot
The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the recent release of the NSW Government’s Housing Pattern Book designs and new fast-tracked approval pathway, highlighting the opportunity to unlock highquality, well-designed homes across the Hunter and Central Coast.
Property Council Hunter and Central Coast Regional Director Nuatali Nelmes said the Pattern Book puts good design front and centre – a crucial step toward lifting housing standards while helping meet demand in the region.
Praise for new NSW housing design book
“This is about delivering better homes, not just more homes,” she said.
“The Pattern Book gives us architect-designed options that will elevate the quality of housing across our communities.
“We’re ready to build – and these new tools will help us do it better and faster.
“From Newcastle’s urban infill suburbs to new growth areas across Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Warnervale, pattern book designs offer practical, pre-approved options that make good design more
affordable and easier to deliver.”
The Pattern Book includes eight architect-led designs for terraces, townhouses and manor homes, now available for just $1 for the first six months.
A dedicated fast-track Complying Development pathway will also commence from July 30, reducing approval timeframes to as little as 10 days.
The Property Council played a key role in shaping the Pattern Book and supported the NSW Government Architect’s 2024 regional engagement
roadshow, including hosting a well-attended Newcastle forum in August last year.
“This reform reflects genuine collaboration between industry and government, including deep engagement with our local development community here in the Hunter,” Nelmes said.
“People want timeless, wellplanned homes that fit in and function beautifully.
“It’s not just about getting approvals faster, it’s about lifting expectations and raising the standard for what low and medium density housing looks like.”
Uniting to help fight cost of living challenge
As Central Coast families continue to feel the pinch of rising living costs, two local stores are stepping up to provide both affordable goods and charitable support to the community.
Bowerbird Recycling and Central Coast Antiques & Collectables have become unlikely heroes in the fight against financial hardship, offering quality secondhand items at prices that won’t break the bank whilst simultaneously supporting local charities.
“We’re seeing more families coming through our doors looking for affordable furniture and household items,” Mitchell Gordon from Central Coast Antiques said.
He said he had noticed an increase in customers since inflation began impacting household budgets.
“It’s not just about recycling
anymore – we’re helping people stretch their dollars further,” he said.
Bowerbird Recycling operates as a not-for-profit, while Central Coast Antiques & Collectables functions as a social enterprise.
Both shops run on a model
that benefits the entire community.
Excess stock is donated to local charitable organisations rather than ending up in landfill, creating a cycle of giving that extends far beyond their shop floors.
The timing couldn’t be more crucial.
With grocery prices up significantly and rental costs soaring across the Central Coast, many residents are being forced to make difficult choices about where to spend their money.
Secondhand shopping has shifted from being a lifestyle choice to a necessity for many families.
“People are discovering that pre-loved doesn’t mean poor quality,” Carmen Cooper from Bowerbird said.
“We’re seeing young families
furnishing homes, and retirees finding unique pieces – all while supporting local people experiencing hardship.”
The Gosford-based shops work with several local organisations, ensuring donated items reach those most in need.
From clothing for job interviews to furniture for women fleeing domestic violence, their charitable partnerships address real community needs.
For Central Coast residents facing financial pressure, these recycling enterprises offer a practical solution that benefits everyone involved.
Customers save money, useful items avoid landfill, and local charities receive ongoing support – proving that sometimes the most effective community initiatives grow from the ground up.
Last chance to have a say on transport options
Residents are being reminded that submissions on the NSW Government’s Draft Central Coast Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan close on Sunday, July 27.
So far, more than 500 locals have had their say, with over 300 survey responses, seven submissions, almost 100 quick poll answers and over 100 interactive pin drops, with residents offering localised feedback on different aspects of the plan.
The draft plan outlines a vision for a vibrant and connected Central Coast served by a high-quality transport system that enables people to safely get where they need to go by walking, riding, catching public transport or using their private vehicle
throughout the geographically diverse region.
About 45 short and mediumterm initiatives have been identified to help address challenges faced by the region and improve transport options for the region’s residents, workers and visitors between now and 2041.
The initiatives will support projected population growth and enable improved access to employment areas, health and education precincts and tourism, while maintaining a connection to the highly desirable and valued natural attractions of the area.
They include: more services to more places; better utilisation of existing infrastructure including road and rail; improved public transport services for smaller communities and their ageing
populations; and targeted upgrades to improve connections between homes and jobs, education, healthcare services and entertainment precincts.
The Central Coast Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan is one of nine SRITPs
being developed as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing transport infrastructure and services across regional parts of the state.
to essential services such as healthcare, education, employment, social services and significant cultural locations, as well as goods that are critical for consumers, businesses and supply chains,” he said.
“By improving connectivity and ensuring transport is accessible, inclusive, reliable and safe within the fastgrowing Central Coast, we are working to help improve the wellbeing of our communities and ensuring an even brighter future for our region.”
Minister for the Central Coast
David Harris said the plan is a blueprint for change.
“Transport connections play a crucial role in providing access
Building on previous strategic plans, the SRITPs focus on delivering integrated solutions that will drive economic growth, improve connectivity and enhance the quality of life.
The draft plan and related documents are available at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au /sritp/central-coast with submissions invited until midnight on July 27 via that page or by emailing engage. sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au.
Nuatali Nelmes
The plan is a blueprint for future transport options
Jane Hillyard from Bowerbird delivers household items to a local resident in need; Rob Marshall from Central Coast Antiques delivers furniture to Allawah House Women’s Shelter
Every garden needs a tree.
Even the smallest of green spaces can bene t from the shade, structure, and serenity a tree brings.
With a little thoughtful planning, you’re sure to nd one to suit your patch of paradise.
The rst step in choosing the right tree is to understand its size potential.
Know both the minimum and maximum height it can reach.
It’s not wise to rely on “just trimming it down later”—trees thrive when allowed to grow as nature intended.
Regular heavy pruning can cause stress and shorten their lifespan.
Speaking of lifespan, that’s another consideration.
Are you planting in a space that suits a fast-growing but short-lived tree?
That may be ideal for quick impact in a home garden.
Or are you planning longterm, such as on a verge or in a larger landscape?
In those cases, a slowgrowing, longer-living variety may be best. Roots matter.
Different species have very different root systems—some stay shallow and close, others travel deep and far, and some can even cause issues with plumbing, foundations, or paving.
DOWN IN THE GARDEN A Tree for Your Garden
BY CHERALYN DARCEY
Cheralyn hosts The Nightline, weeknights, on 2HD Newcastle across Australia on the Super Radio Network. Listen on your local SRN station or stream at 2SM.com.au
www.cheralyndarcey.com
Do your homework, or ask your local nursery or horticulturalist about what’s best for your space.
It’s equally important to consider what’s above and below, plant away from both overhead power lines and underground services.
Wondering where that lovely shade will fall during the year?
Websites such as Find My Shadow can help you plot how the sun will interact with your tree’s canopy across the seasons.
The ‘canopy width’ is the spread of the branches from the trunk and tells you how much shade the tree will
provide and where it will land in summer versus winter.
You’ll also want to choose between deciduous and evergreen varieties.
Deciduous trees lose their leaves in winter and are perfect for spaces like patios or windows where you want warming sunlight in winter and cool shade in summer.
Evergreens provide yearround coverage, which is great for privacy or consistent shade.
TREES THAT GROW FAST
If you’re a bit impatient and want your shade quickly, here are some faster-growing options.
Keep in mind that fast growers are often not as long-lived.
Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus) – A coastal beauty, ideal for frost-free areas. It can reach up to 9 metres with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and a sunny position.
Evergreen Ash (Fraxinus grif thii) – A popular street tree with a beautiful canopy. It grows up to 8 metres tall with a 5-metre spread. Hardy and easy to care for.
Dwarf Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora)
– A more manageable
version of the towering original. Grows to around 7 metres high and 5 metres wide. Fragrant and fast.
Weeping Lilly Pilly (Waterhousia oribunda) –Soft, cascading foliage and edible berries. It can grow to 8–10 metres and makes a great screen or feature tree.
DECIDUOUS
DELIGHTS
If you want that winter sun and summer shade balance, a deciduous tree is the way to go.
Red Cedar (Toona ciliata) –A native rainforest giant. One of the few Australian deciduous species, it grows very fast but needs lots of room, as it can reach up to 60 metres!
Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei) – This showstopper bursts with colourful blooms and offers great deciduous coverage. I’m personally a fan of the vivid pink ‘Tuscarora’ variety. These grow best in full sun and reach about 8 metres.
Chinese Poplar (Populus simonii) – Tall and narrow, great for screens or slim spaces. They offer brilliant yellow autumn leaves and grow around 8–12 metres high and just 2–3 metres wide.
LOCAL LEGENDS
Planting trees that are native to your region not only makes gardening easier—it also supports the regeneration of your local ecosystem. Here are a few native standouts for Central Coast gardens:
Coast Wattle (Acacia sophorae) – A tough shrub that can grow to a small tree around 3 metres. It features dense foliage and cheerful yellow owers and loves sandy soil.
Willow Bottlebrush (Callistemon salignus) –Gorgeous yellow blooms and attractive red-tinged new growth. It grows up to 5 metres and does well in both dry and wet periods. Just watch the roots—they can be assertive.
Cheese Tree (Glochidion ferdinandi) – Versatile and hardy, it thrives in sun or shade and most soils. Birds love its fruit. Depending on conditions, it can grow between 8 and 30 metres.
Native Frangipani (Hymenosporum avum) –Not related to the traditional frangipani, but just as lovely. Scented yellow owers bloom in spring. Expect a mature height of 6–8 metres.
HOW TO PLANT A TREE
Once you’ve picked the perfect tree, give it the best start you can.
A good rule to remember: “Spend three times as much on your hole as your tree.”
Here’s how:
1. Check your soil’s drainage. Improve clay-heavy soils with compost.
2. Dig a wide hole - three times the width of the pot your tree came in.
3. Enrich the hole with compost or fertiliser suited to your tree type.
4. Soak the tree’s pot in water until bubbles stop rising—this ensures the root ball is fully hydrated.
5. Plant the tree at the recommended depth. Don’t plant too deep!
6. Straighten and support. Use soft, flexible ties if staking is required. Allow for gentle movement to strengthen the trunk.
7. Backfill firmly to eliminate air pockets.
8. Water deeply to help establish deep, healthy roots.
9. Keep the soil moist during the establishment phase (usually a few weeks).
10. Mulch generously - about 6cm thick, but keep mulch 10cm away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Whether you’re dreaming of a shady summer haven, a colourful autumn show, or a tree that brings birds and bees to your backyard, there’s something out there for every garden.
Just a bit of research and preparation will help you plant a tree that not only thrives but becomes a beloved part of your home’s story for many years to come.
So, dig deep, choose wisely and grow well.
Health & Education
Hundreds gathered at the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus on July 16 to celebrate NAIDOC Week, an important date on the national Indigenous calendar.
This year marked a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating
Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience.
The 2025 theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates not only the achievements of the past but also the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of young leaders, the vision of communities, and the legacy of ancestors.
Hundreds gather to celebrate NAIDOC Week
The Wollotuka Institute Student Advancement Manager Codie Neal said the event complemented the NAIDOC Week theme.
“We had a mix of young and old sharing their cultural knowledge with the community through dance, song, and food, as well as hands-on workshops such as didgeridoo playing,
boomerang and spear throwing, art and more,” Neal said.
“Knowing the importance and significance of this week, our day brought the community together on campus to not only celebrate our culture but also highlight the pathways available for our mob to receive a higher education.
FAMILY LAW
• Divorces
• De facto
• Children's Issues
• Property
• Binding Financial Agreements
WILLS & ESTATES
• Probate, Wills & Disputes
• Power of Attorney
• Enduring Guardianship
“It also gave our students the added bonus to connect with community.”
She said the day was all about understanding, acknowledging, recognising and learning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, as well as showcasing what the university has to offer.
CONVEYANCING
• Purchase & Sale of Property
• Refinancing Mortgages
• Purchase & Sale of Business
• Leasing
• Retirement Villages
“As the number one university in Australia for Indigenous enrolments, the University of Newcastle is deeply committed to improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, wellbeing, and educational opportunities,” Neal said.
COURT APPEARANCES
• Criminal Law
• AVO Matters
• Traffic Matters
• Drink Driving
Email: lemery@lindaemery.com.au
Web: www.lindaemery.com.au
Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford
Hundreds gathered at the Ourimbah campus of the University of Newcastle to celebrate NAIDOC Week
Cancer patients urged to seek rehab treatment
A Central Coast clinic is urging Australians with head and neck cancer to seek rehabilitation earlier in their treatment journey, a move they say could drastically reduce longterm side effects and improve quality of life.
Head and neck cancers are the sixth most common cancer worldwide, yet the lasting effects of treatments like surgery, chemotherapy and radiation often go unrecognised and undertreated.
Occupational therapist and founder of Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions (CRLS) Kate Perkins said the answer was in early, proactive rehabilitation, ideally starting alongside treatment, not after.
“Cancer treatments save lives, but they can also take a toll on a person’s ability to speak, swallow, eat, or even smile,” Perkins said.
“With early intervention, we can reduce that impact and help people maintain function and confidence through every stage of recovery.”
Perkins, along with colleague Caitlin Hobday, is one of the few qualified Head and Neck Lymphoedema Therapists on the Central Coast.
The pair are part of a small group of specially trained practitioners across Australia working in this highly complex area, offering dedicated care for patients with head and neck cancer.
Their patients often experience the following after undergoing cancer treatment: Lymphoedema (swelling in the neck and jaw); Radiation fibrosis (hardening of tissues); Trismus (jaw restriction); Chronic fatigue and postural dysfunction; Swallowing or speech difficulties.
CRLS, based in Erina, offers a
NOTICE OF ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION –THOMPSON STREET, BELMONT SOUTH
Baker Archaeology, on behalf of Kado Belmont Pty Ltd, is preparing an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment at the eastern end of Thompson Street, Belmont South (Lot 301 DP1292390) for the purpose of an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) application relating to the development of a seniors living facility. The AHIP applicant is Kado Belmont Pty Ltd of 1/54 Doggett Street Newstead QLD 4006. The contact person is Emile Fourie, phone 1300 523 647.
Aboriginal organisations or Aboriginal persons who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the cultural significance of Aboriginal objects in the area are invited to register an interest in consultation.The purpose of community consultation with Aboriginal people is to assist the proposed AHIP applicant in: 1) assessing the Aboriginal heritage values of the area, 2) preparing an application for an AHIP, and 3) to assist the Executive Director of Heritage NSW to consider and determine the AHIP application.
Registration should include the name of a contact person, address and other relevant contact details. The names of registered Aboriginal parties will be passed on to the Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council and Heritage NSW unless a request to the contrary is made.
Registrations must be submitted in writing within two weeks to:
comprehensive rehabilitation model that includes OncoLaser™ Therapy, a noninvasive laser therapy codeveloped by Perkins, targeting inflammation, scarring, and swelling.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage and SOZO bioimpedance monitoring detects and manages lymphoedema before visible symptoms arise.
Exercise prescription and scar therapy restores movement, mobility and confidence.
“The sooner we start, the better the outcomes,” Perkins said.
“Most patients have never heard of lymphoedema or fibrosis until they’re already struggling.
“That needs to change.”
Perkins is an internationally recognised occupational therapist, accredited lymphoedema practitioner and is also the founder of Coastal Rehab Hub Wellness Centre, and the Bounce Back From Breast Cancer online recovery program.
With more than a decade of
clinical experience, Perkins is widely regarded as a leader in cancer rehabilitation and lymphoedema management, both in Australia and abroad. She is regularly invited to present at industry conferences across Australia, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific.
Her expertise spans handson rehabilitation, lymphatic therapy, exercise prescription, and the integration of emerging technologies, including codeveloping the OncoLaser™ treatment model using MLS® Laser Therapy.
In recognition of Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, Perkins is calling on both patients and referrers to include rehabilitation as part of the standard cancer care pathway, not an afterthought. For more information, or to book an assessment, contact CRLS on 4312 7033 or visit www.crls.au.
Donate at Diggers to those in need
The Ettalong Diggers Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its July Donation Drive in support of Escabags, an Australian charity dedicated to providing free ‘Escape Bags’ to individuals fleeing domestic and family abuse.
In partnership with Escabags, Ettalong Diggers is now a registered stockist, making these life-saving resources more accessible to those in
need within the Central Coast community.
To further support the initiative, the Foundation is calling on members, guests, and the wider community to donate essential items throughout the month of July.
Donation bins are now located in the foyer of Ettalong Diggers, where people are encouraged to contribute new and unopened items suitable for the Escape Bags.
Items requested include: travel-sized shampoo and conditioner; soap or shower gel; facecloths; toothbrushes and toothpaste; deodorant; sanitary items; small first aid items; notepads and pens.
“As a community-focused organisation, we believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone,” the club’s Community and Tourism Manager Kim Cole said.
“This drive is a way for our members and guests to actively
contribute to helping survivors take their first step toward safety.”
The Ettalong Diggers Foundation invites all locals to play a role in helping Escabags continue its mission to empower and protect vulnerable individuals.
Every donation, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference.
Find out more at escabags. org
Caitlin Hobday and Kate Perkins from CRLS
Kim Cole with the donation bins
HEALTH BRIEF Clarification
In an article published in Coast Community News on page 28 on July 17, about a thesis published by Dr Ryan Stewart titled Writing the History of Contact on the Central Coast of New South Wales, an error was made.
The article said one of the biggest revelations for Stewart was the discovery of the extent of violence in the late 1920s and early 1930s, which should have read the 1820s and 1830s.
It also said he uncovered two articles written by poet Henry Kendall about the Central Coast that had not been previously discovered.
Stewart said his thesis wasn’t the first to report Kendall’s articles, rather his research and that of Dr Laurence Allen were among the first to acknowledge Kendall’s authorship of these articles. He said one of Kendall’s articles about Central Coast history and violence towards First Peoples had been reported in local histories, but his authorship of the article wasn’t known until recently.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Ballerina Supertees for Gosford Hospital
Volunteers from across the Central Coast came together at Gosford RSL recently to pack the latest ballerina themed Supertee medical garments before delivering them to Gosford Hospital.
This is the first time the ballerina Supertee has been distributed in Australia, and children at Gosford Hospital are among the very first to receive them.
The Supertee is a medically functional garment designed to look like a costume, ready to bring joy, comfort and
imagination to children undergoing treatment.
It was designed by tradie Jason Sotiris after his own daughter battled a rare and aggressive form of cancer in 2018.
Since then the charity has donated more than 25,000 garments to children in hospitals across Australia.
“The ballerina edition marks our first dance-inspired design, after we had requests from families who wanted an alternative to superheroes for their child,” Sotiris said.
“With every Supertee, there’s a story to tell and this one
invites children into the world of imagination and dance.
“It’s about helping them feel like a ballerina, not just a patient.”
Designed as a costume first and a medical garment second, each ballerina Supertee includes a tutu, a hand written card from their ‘biggest fan’ and an invitation to dance.
The Supertee is specially designed to bypass medical lines and tubes, provide access to underarms for temperature checks while also being MRI and PET scan friendly.
“This is more than a costume,
it’s a moment of joy during a very hard time,” Sotiris said.
“Our hope is that kids will not only wear their ballerina Supertee but dance in it in their hospital rooms.”
Parents can scan a QR code included in each pack that links to a personal message from Jade Wood, Supertee ambassador and former senior artist with The Australian Ballet, inviting children to take part in a specially created dance experience.
“I am inviting families to be part of the moment where a hospital bed becomes a stage,
and a child’s imagination takes over,” Wood said.
“As a dancer, I’ve seen firsthand how movement can uplift and inspire.
“I’m so proud to be part of a project that gives children a reason to smile and move, even from a hospital bed.”
Supertee has partnered with Rise & Shine Education, who are helping fund and distribute the first wave of ballerina Supertees.
Individuals and businesses wanting to support the ballerina Supertee rollout can visit www. supertee.org.au for more information.
Volunteers packing the garments; The new Ballerina Supertee
The 2025 Splitfire Spark Plugs and Field Furnace Refractories Central Coast Cup dirt track meeting came to an exciting and dramatic, and some might say controversial, conclusion on the weekend of July 12-13.
The Senior Cup was won by a previous winner, Luke Bush, while Tommy Wright is now added to the honour roll of Junior Cup winners – with both finals providing plenty of talking points for onlookers.
Racing for the Junior and Senior Cup was the culmination of the two-day meeting which had already provided some top-flight action to resolve the various classes of competition.
The majority of classes were decided over five point-scoring rounds and there were some where a dominant performer emerged while others were only resolved very late in the last round.
The MX Open was one of the last gasp deciders when a passing move on the final corner left Cody Lewis with a one point advantage over David Smith, with Canberra teenager Thomas Gotts claiming third
Race is on for trainers premiership honours
With just one week left in the racing season, the race for the Wyong Trainers Premiership is set for a thrilling conclusion.
Kim Waugh, who has remarkably won the last nine successive Wyong Trainers Premiership titles, is once again in contention, sitting on 22 wins alongside Kristen Buchanan and just one behind current leader Sara Ryan.
Damien Lane remains a live chance on 21 wins, setting up a thrilling four-way contest to close out the season.
Wyong Race Club CEO Gregory Purcell says it’s a fitting end to what has been a remarkable season.
“I hope it’s a four-way tie,” he said.
“All of our trainers work incredibly hard.
“There’s a lot of travel, long hours, and sometimes it comes down to a bit of luck.
“No matter who takes out the title, it’s been an outstanding season, and we wish them all the best for the final week and for the 2025/26 season ahead.”
Meanwhile, the countdown is on for one of the most anticipated events on the local racing calendar — the Wyong Cup Carnival.
Day One kicks off with the Wyong Cup Prelude on Sunday, August 17, followed by the ever-popular Star 104.5 Ladies Day on Sunday, August 31, and culminating in the prestigious Wyong Cup Day on Friday, September 3.
If you love fashion, fun, and a fabulous day at the races, don’t miss the Ladies Day Pavilion on Sunday, August 31.
Top action at dirt track meeting
overall as he looked right at home in his first open meeting as a senior.
It was a similar story in the Pro 250 class where the John Wilkes Memorial Trophy was up for grabs as Lachlan Emms needed to win the last round to seal the overall victory.
In contrast David Smith dominated the over-35s winning all rounds.
The Pro 450 class was decided by a final with an identical top three to the MX Open class – Cody Lewis on top of David Smith and Thomas Gotts – in a race restarted after
several riders fell leaving Mitchell Watson suffering a serious leg injury.
Across the 10 classes for junior age divisions, three riders managed to claim two class wins – two of them having travelled from the Albury Wodonga club.
Tommy Wright was the standout in the oldest age bracket, winning four of the five rounds to claim overall victory in the 2-stroke class, and he then won the 4-stroke final, again after winning four of the five rounds.
Wright’s clubmate Oscar
Ryan, riding in the youngest age bracket, was just as dominant with his two class wins achieved by winning nine of his 10 races.
Host club rider Cohen McCosker went one better, winning all 10 races for his two class victories.
Among the other class winners was Levi Meyn, who was one of a number of riders whose weekend performance looked to be a considerable step-up from their last appearance at the Somersby track.
Other class winners were
Queenslander Kru Tulloch, Evie Wiggins and Braxsen Jones.
Saturday action was completed by Clock on the Wall competitions decided by a series of elimination one lap dashes, with Cody Lewis in the seniors and Tahj Edwards in the juniors taking the honours.
The Central Coast Cup races invariably produce some memorable action and the 2025 version was no exception.
In the Junior Cup a coming together on the last corner of the eight-lap race saw one rider fall, which changed the order by the checkered flag.
For a limited time, take advantage of the early bird offer — just $150 until midnight on August 11.
Your ticket includes: a delicious three-course lunch; a five-hour beverage package; and access to one of the most stylish events of the year.
Last year’s Pavilion sold out — and 2025 promises to be even bigger and better. Head to wyongraceclub.com. au for full details and to secure your spot.
A protest was entered and a subsequent hearing declared the finishing order as Tommy Wright winning from host club rider Tahj Edwards and Zac Brady from the Kurri Kurri Junior Club.
The first attempt to run the Senior Cup final only got to the first corner where several riders tangled, including fourtime Cup winner David Smith, who initially lined up for the restart but pulled away just before the tapes rose – just as well he did as he later went to hospital and was found to have multiple injuries.
Defending champion Cody Lewis led the race but had no answer to 2022 winner Luke Bush, who rounded Lewis and in the end was a comfortable winner, with Thomas Gotts again third.
The Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club was again thankful for the effort of all the volunteers including members of the Gosford District Motorcycle Club who did all the corner flagging duties over the weekend.
Joel needs help to fulfill dream of playing on world stage
Joel Blanchfield-Keane, a 16-year-old goalkeeper from the Central Coast, has earned the incredible honour of being selected to represent Australia at the 2025 Deaflympics in Japan this November.
Currently playing for East Gosford FC, Joel’s football journey has included playing for the JR ZL Central Coast Mariners and the APIA U15s Development Squad. Unlike other national sporting bodies, Deaf Football Australia is not sponsored, meaning all
athletes must fundraise to cover their own travel, training, and competition expenses.
Joel needs the help of the Central Coast community and local businesses to turn this dream into reality. To help make his participation possible, Joel is seeking sponsorship from local and national businesses.
A sponsorship of $2,500 will not only help cover significant costs but will also offer businesses valuable exposure, with the company’s logo proudly displayed on the sleeve
of Joel’s playing kit throughout his training, matches, and media coverage leading up to and during the Deaflympics.
For sponsorship enquiries, contact secretary@ deaffootballaustralia.com.au
Joel is also holding a Krispy Kreme Donut Drive, with donut pickup on Saturday, August 30 from 10am and 2pm, at Hylton Moore Oval.
Joel is also seeking donations for raffle prizes and silent auction items to assist with his fundraising efforts. Interested people can also
support Joel by donating directly through his GoFundMe page, https://gofund.me/ cf231e7c or by scanning the QR code on posters and donation boxes around the coast.
Joel’s commitment to his sport and the deaf community is an inspiration and the community’s support will help him achieve his goal of representing Australia on the world stage while showcasing the talent and resilience of young athletes from the Central Coast.
Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club
It was a top day of dirt track racing
Joel Blanchfield-Keane in action
Clockwise from top left: Kim Waugh,Damien Lane, Kristen Buchannan and Sara Ryan
Photos: Phillip Faulkner
SPORTS BRIEF
Oberoi
chalks up 50 games
The Central Coast Rhinos ice hockey team has paid tribute on its Facebook page to Anand Oberoi, who chalked up his 50th game in the AIHL (Australian Ice Hockey League) on Sunday, July 20.
The post said each game was a “testament to (Oberoi’s) grit, dedication, and undying passion between the pipes”.
“From jaw-dropping stops to unwavering composure under pressure, (he has) been the backbone of our defence week in and week out,” the post said.
“You have been absolutely incredible and we are so happy your home is with the Rhinos.
“Thank you from your team and your fans.
“Here’s to game 50, and to the many more to come.”
Fans were quick to comment on the post, with one saying Oberoi had saved at least 2,000 goals.
See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au
Action heats up in rugby union comp
RUGBY
Warnervale defeated Avoca Beach 46-38 in the Wyong Leagues Group Premier 1 Rugby Union competition on Saturday, July 19.
In a crunch clash between the teams ranked fourth and fifth on the points table, both sides ran in six tries.
However, two yellow cards to Avoca proved decisive, and Warnervale’s Bennett Gillies made the difference with the boot.
These two sides could meet
again in the finals – if this match was anything to go by, strong.
a free-flowing game between two lower-table sides.
Both teams turned on the attacking flair, with Onisimo Bose and Onorio Natavo among
This was a great spectacle which highlighted how both teams have improved across the season.
The match showed why both sides are in finals contention and highlighted Terrigal’s ability to weather pressure. Gosford/Kariong went down to Northlakes/The Bay 39-22 in
Woy Woy fought hard, but went down to the Razorbacks 52-22.
The Razorbacks’ outside backs were again the difference – the pace and width of their
attack was too much, and Woy Woy now face an uphill battle to secure a finals spot despite what’s been a promising season in their rebuild.
In the Women’s Premier League, Gosford/Kariong scored a forfeit victory over Northlakes/The Bay at Gosford Rugby Field.
Avoca Beach also scored a forfeit victory over Warnervale at Heazlett Park.
Terrigal defeated Lake Macquarie 43-7, showing their class with a commanding performance at home.
Sophie Dryden was electric, scoring a hat trick, as the Trojans sent a strong warning to the competition ahead of finals.
Woy Woy went down to the Razorbacks 53-0.
It was a comprehensive win by the Razorbacks, who are now piling pressure on Warnervale for fourth position. The home side was relentless and controlled the match from start to finish.
Central Coast Rugby Union
Woy Woy went down to the Razorbacks 52-22 PhotoS: Ian Clift
Top action at dirt track meeting
Celebrating women in sport
Celebrate women in sport at the Heart Sports Luncheon, to be held at Wallarah Bay Recreation Club from 11am-2pm on Friday, August 1.
The event will be hosted by former World Champion water polo player Kerry Turner, who is the driving force behind the NSW Government’s Her Sport Her Way strategy.
Turner has had more than 25 years of experience in Australian sport and will be sharing her remarkable journey.
She will also lead a panel discussion on the rise of women’s sport.
Guest panelists will be Jordan Kiss and Jemma Smith.
Kiss is a Central Coast Heart
Alumni and elite Suncorp Super Netball umpire.
A proud Wiradjuri woman, she offers valuable insights into the national and international netball scene.
Smith is a Surf Life Saving champion and Olympic kayak hopeful.
She will share a compelling story of perseverance, achievement and her recent victory at the 2024 Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold.
The event will include a high tea–style luncheon and exciting prize opportunities.
Organisers say it will be a landmark event for the Central Coast – a wonderful opportunity to celebrate women in sport, connect with the local netball community, and support emerging talent.
Book your tickets by searching ‘Central Coast Heart’ at www. ticketebo.com.au
