Coast Community News #507

Gosford lights up to remember Audrey

A proliferation of electric bikes and scooters being ridden illegally in public spaces has residents throughout the region fearing for their safety.

This is despite numerous pleas to Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid and to Council.

Residents are calling for police to be more active in enforcing legislation which bans riding e-bikes and e-scooters in public areas and for Central Coast Council to erect more signage informing riders of the law.

John Burgess of Ettalong Beach is pushing for the erection of signage along The Esplanade announcing that that e-bikes and e-scooters are prohibited, but his pleas have so far fallen on deaf ears.

Burgess, whose home is on The Esplanade, said e-bikes and scooters were constantly ridden recklessly on the two pathways running along the waterfront and he fears for walkers’ safety.

“Council actively promotes this area as a walk-friendly zone, and has erected various signs, including one warning against leaving dog poo in the area, but will not provide signs saying e-bikes and scooters are not allowed,” he said.

The stadium was filled with light, love and unity Photo: Mike Wolfe

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The Coast is once again Lighting Up the way EDITORIAL

More than 4,000 people filled Gosford’s Polytec Stadium last weekend for the Light Up Concert, a heartfelt memorial to murdered local woman Audrey Griffin.

What could have been an event of sorrow instead became a glowing statement of unity, hope and resolve.

Locals from across the Central Coast came together with a clear message: We insist on safety on our streets and in our cities – for women, for girls, and for everyone.

The message was loud, peaceful, and deeply felt.

The community’s call went far beyond words of sympathy.

It demanded visible, practical change – better lighting in public areas, safer late-night transport options, improved education around respect, and stronger legislative protections.

The concert’s sea of lights symbolised not only remembrance but also the illumination of a path forward, one guided by empathy and shared responsibility.

This was a moment when a community decided it would not let fear, apathy, or bureaucracy dim its resolve.

Audrey’s legacy has already become a movement for

change with the organisers, attendees and supporters carrying a light of hope.

What makes the initiative stand out is not only the size of the crowd but the spirit it carried – calm, determined, and full of love.

In a world where anger and division too often dominate the headlines, the Central Coast once again showed a different way.

While global conflicts rage and a violent crime spree grips Sydney, our community chose connection over confrontation.

Where others lash out, we light candles.

Where others build walls, we

build stages for music and healing.

It’s a reminder that real safety comes not just from policing or policy but from people; from neighbours who look out for one another, from councils that listen, from governments that respond, and from communities that refuse to be silent.

The Central Coast is leading the way in community-led positive change.

Showing that when locals come together like this, in compassion, courage, and solidarity, they shine a light that no act of violence can extinguish.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Our very own Monopoly edition

The Central Coast has joined the world-famous board game ranks with the launch of Monopoly: Central Coast Edition, revealed on October 1 at Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific.

Australian Monopoly Manager Louisa Grundy said the edition was designed to capture the Coast’s natural beauty and community spirit.

“I personally love the Central Coast, and it was so much fun to work on this muchanticipated edition,” she said.

Winning Moves – under licence from Hasbro – spent nine months consulting with Council, businesses and the community to decide which landmarks and institutions would take their place.

“It was special to hear stories such as how locals helped animals during the last bushfires,” Grundy said.

Each community board showcases a diverse range of landmarks like beaches and parks, retail, hospitality, and public attractions.

Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary, which looks after rescued wildlife, was selected among the region’s wildlife and outdoor category.

General Manager Tassin

Barnard said they were proud to feature with The Skillion and Treetops Adventure.

“It really is a unique experience at the sanctuary,” she said.

“You meet the animals in the bush, in their natural home.”

Representatives from local businesses welcomed the recognition.

Among them was Karl Schlothauer from The Esplanade Terrigal, a collective promoting the uniqueness of the Coast through the NSW Government Uptown Program.

“It’s a worldwide renowned game which is great exposure for the region and for our businesses,” he said.

Before the reveal, Felix Mayes, owner of The Games Shop at Erina Fair, said he was expecting a couple of beaches to feature on the board.

“And it would be great to see Erina Fair take a square,” he said prior to the launch.

Having been part of the community for 14 years, he was thrilled to see the shopping centre and Long Jetty cafes and restaurants feature in the classic game.

For Six String Brewing Co the invitation, alongside Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific and The

Archibald Precinct, came as a surprise.

“We grew up on the Coast and have been around for 10 years,” Marketing Director Sharon Benson said.

“We’re honoured to be recognised as a local hospitality institution and to show off our new site building.”

Other regional features include Somersby Falls and Bouddi National Park as natural attractions.

The Entrance Ferris Wheel, The Entrance Boat Shed and The Chapman Building are the cultural icons.

Leagues Club Park, Gosford Waterfront and Central Coast Markets stood out as a locally adored hotspot.

MacMasters, Terrigal and Avoca represent the region’s beaches.

Norah Head Lighthouse and the Australian Reptile Park were named as the two Central Coast icons.

Special spaces include Tuggerah Lake Preservation and Central Coast Waterways Conservation, with community cards highlighting events such as the 5 Lands Walk.

The Central Coast edition launches in the 90th anniversary year of Monopoly. The game began life in 1904 when Elizabeth Magie Phillips created The Landlord’s Game to warn against the dangers of wealth concentration.

During the Depression, it was reshaped into the competitive property-trading version known today and is played by more than a billion people across 114 countries.

Now, local families can battle it out with a unique Coastie design.

The Central Coast board is available at Big W, JB Hi-Fi, QBD Books, The Games Shop Erina, The Gamesmen, Gameology and Casey’s Toys.

Ivona Rose

Gina and Adam from Star FM with the Monopoly man at Terrigal; The Central coast Monopoly board

Endangered flower could threaten development

A native flower only found in the Charmhaven-Wyee area has been given emergency status as a critically endangered species.

The NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee says the plant is eligible to be listed as Critically Endangered as, in its opinion, it is subject to an immediate and significant threat of extinction.

The independent committee of scientists is appointed by the NSW Minister for the Environment.

The threats to the flower come largely from proposed development on privately owned land.

The flower is named the Patersonia rosea Branwhite and was only officially recognised and registered two years ago in the State’s National Herbarium journal.

Local man, the late Boris Branwhite, was one of the

people who discovered the plant.

All known populations of the flower occur in the CharmhavenWyee area while a single specimen was recorded more than a century ago 200km further north at Laurieton.

“Further field work in the NSW north coast region is required to determine whether the species persists at Laurieton and whether it occurs between there and the Charmhaven-Wyee area,” the committee said.

It says none of the four populations currently known in the Charmhaven-Wyee area occur within a conservation reserve.

Some populations are currently under imminent threat from development.

“There is an urgent need to undertake further searches in suitable habitat to gain a more comprehensive understanding of distribution, abundance and

threats,” the committee said in its September 26 announcement.

“The current level of knowledge of the species precludes a confident assessment of conservation status and therefore it is best treated as data deficient.”

At one location Patersonia rosea occurs in a power line easement where the vegetation is periodically slashed.

The committee says the species may be present within the nearby Lake Macquarie and Munmorah State Conservation Areas, and Colongra Swamp Nature Reserve, but all known populations are small and the total number of plants of the species observed in the field to date is in the low hundreds.

The emergency status as a critically endangered species could affect two current

proposals; a development application for homes and a school on a site at Charmhaven; and the details of a draft Central Coast Conservation Plan currently on public exhibition.

Central Coast Council has raised a number of concerns over the proposed $1.6B mixed-use development which is currently being considered by the State Government as a State Significant Development.

The plan would deliver more than 2,000 homes, a school catering for 1,500 students from K-12, and a new business park.

“The removal of over 21 hectares of native vegetation as a result of this proposal is inconsistent with Council’s strategic planning for the area which to date have supported managing the area for its biodiversity values,” Council said in July.

It said threatened species and vegetation integrity had not

been adequately assessed, citing Diuris praecox, Cryptostylis hunteriana, the Large Forest Owl, the Squirrel Glider and the Swift Parrots as being of particular concern.

It can now add the Patersonia rosea Branwhite to the list.

Also, this week Central Coast councillors were briefed by representatives from the State Planning Department on a draft Central Coast Conservation Plan which is meant to provide certainty to developers on what land is to be certified “urban capable”.

The presentation included information about free surveys the State Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is offering developers this spring and summer to protect four critically endangered flora species.

It can now add the Patersonia rosea Branwhite to the list.

Coastal Twist a huge success despite red tape

The community was the big winner on the October long weekend as the much-loved Coastal Twist Festival Fair Day went ahead — overcoming unprecedented Council red tape to join the state’s blockbuster weekend economy, which injected more than $50M into NSW.

Despite just three weeks of promotion — a process that normally takes four months — thousands attended Fair Day on Sunday, October 5, cementing Coastal Twist as one of the region’s most unifying, joyful and inclusive events.

“After months and more reams of red tape and diversion than any producer should ever have to deal with, it sometimes felt like the life and joy had been drained from the process,” Festival Director Glitta Supernova said.

“More money and time went

towards Council than community building — a broken system working against the people it’s meant to serve.

“But when I saw the participation, the smiles, and the magic our volunteers and artists created, my cup refilled instantly.”

With a 492% increase in Council compliance costs and administration demands, the festival still achieved 23% national visitation — slightly down on previous years but balanced by an unprecedented surge in local attendance.

Hundreds of visitor surveys showed 99% of attendees would recommend Coastal Twist to friends and family next year.

Supernova said the 10-month battle to secure approval for Fair Day highlighted extraordinary community backing.

Local businesses and Sydney-based engineers and traffic firms contributed more than $25,000 of pro bono reports to meet unprecedented Council scrutiny, she said.

“Despite being faced with what organisers dubbed a ‘Clayton’s DA’ — a 13-page approval document with just 14 days to meet extensive conditions — the team

persevered,” one organiser said.

“We had to fight for the life of this festival at levels none of us have seen before.

“Coastal Twist 2025 simply wouldn’t have happened without the support of dozens of people, including Central Coast councillors, engineers, and the NSW Rural Fire Service, which helped save more than

$10,000 by clarifying that Council’s demand for a certified bushfire consultant was unnecessary under Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019.”

Fun Haus Factory Chair Juan Iocco said Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna and supportive councillors were instrumental in ensuring the festival went ahead.

“Having councillors back has restored transparency, accountability and local leadership,” he said.

“On stage, Mayor McKinna told cheering crowds: ‘Through our community plan, people told us they want to feel celebrated and connected to life on the Central Coast — and Coastal Twist truly delivers that vision’.”

Aligned with the NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve

Kamper reinforced the state’s support.

“Our strategy provides a clear mandate for a year-round calendar of world-class events that drive visitation, support jobs, and boosts the businesses that rely on our growing visitor economy,” he said.

Organisers said in the final 24 hours before the event, Council hurdles continued — including a failed key lockbox causing a three-hour delay to accessing stage power and site gates. Council eventually resolved the issue.

Coastal Twist Fair Day 2025 went ahead anyway — fuelled by community resilience, volunteer power, and clear backing from the State Government and local leadership.

“We will be back next year with a focus on community and delivery,” Supernova said.

Thousands attended Fair Day on October 5

Merilyn Vale

The flower is only found in a certain part of the Central Coast

Calls for dredging support from State Government

The NSW Government’s Maritime Infrastructure Plan supports maintenance of important infrastructure at 14 locations on the NSW coast – sadly The Entrance isn’t one of them.

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said funding provided by the NSW Government under the plan had enabled other locations to plan with certainty the maintenance and enhancement of their coastal environment including the dredging of key waterways.

Currently, Central Coast Council’s maintenance of The

Entrance Channel and surrounds is largely selffunded and often reactionary.

Mehan said developing a dredging program for Tuggerah Lakes and The Entrance Channel was a key recommendation in the Tuggerah Lakes Expert Panel Report.

He is calling on Central Coast Council to seek dredging support by listing The Entrance and Tuggerah Lakes as a ‘key investment location’ in the current review of the Maritime Infrastructure Plan being conducted by Transport for NSW.

A Council spokesperson said Council had finalised and lodged its submission to the Maritime Infrastructure Discussion Paper and confirmed the submission strongly recommended The Entrance and Tuggerah Lakes be considered a key investment location.

The submission also supported the ongoing inclusion of Brisbane Water and Ettalong Channel as a key investment location and supported calls for improved transparency around the criteria and selection process of key investment locations

Landcare group celebrates 25 years

Palm Grove Ourimbah Creek Landcare celebrated its 25th birthday on October 2.

Situated on Ourimbah Creek Rd just after the M1 Motorway overpass the combined 24ha Central Coast and Transport for NSW Reserve is on Ourimbah Creek.

On October 2, 2000, it was handed over to the stewardship of the Landcare Group who set about turning back time to restore the rainforest from degraded agricultural land with weeds, dumped items and stray cattle into an oasis of biodiversity and a haven for wildlife.

At night there are wandering

wombats, wallabies, bandicoots, timid platypuses and echidnas.

In the early morning birdsong fills the air.

Many individuals and organisations such as the Wyong and then Central Coast Council, Local Land Services (LLS), NSW Environmental Trust, Bangalow Bushland

and how funding was prioritised.

“Tuggerah Lakes, and specifically the entrance compartment of Tuggerah Lakes, represents a high-value coastal asset with significant recreational, economic and environmental importance to the region,” the spokesperson said.

“The entrance to Tuggerah Lakes is a critical asset that requires ongoing maintenance in support of flood mitigation, waterway amenity, public safety, recreational usage and environmental management.”

Management and WIRES have contributed to the site on an ongoing basis.

Birdwatchers, environment and conservation students, runners, fishers and dog walkers enjoy the site now.

“We thank our Mayor Lawrie McKinna, Council Staff, LLS representatives, past and present land carers and other

Coast FM’s Cameron Horn up for international award

COAST FM Production

Manager Cameron Horn has been nominated for an Excellence in Production award at the 2025 Australian Community Broadcasting Association Awards, with the winner to be announced later this month.

The nomination follows a Best Use of Music award at the New York Advertising Festival Awards, and three gold and six silver awards at the International Communicator Awards.

“The awarded commercials were produced for a Pet Crematorium and feature dogs, cats, birds and an elephant, singing Morning Has Broken at a pet funeral,” Horn said.

“I wrote and produced the campaign, while COAST FM’s David Horspool, (producer and sound engineer, for Your Home with Sarah King) provides the voice of the church minister; definitely not typecasting for Dave there.

Horn was also inducted as an official honoree at the prestigious International Webby Awards.

This was for the Central Coast comedy podcast, Hangin’ Out With the Old Fellas.

The podcast, which has been going since 2021, has been a regular national and international award winner.

“This year, Hangin’ Out with the Old Fellas has been recognised internationally, for

the episode Faster Higher Stupider – Festival of the Five Rings,” Horn said.

“It’s a comedy take on the 2024 Olympics and has been adjudged in the top seven comedy podcast episodes worldwide.”

The podcast was recognised as Best Comedy Podcast in Australia and New Zealand in the 2024 Radio Today Awards.

“The podcast features the Attrick Brothers, Barry and Jerry, giving their somewhat confused twist on current affairs, all broadcast live from Spindly Pines Nursing Home sick bay,” Horn said.

“Nothing is off-limits and nothing is accurate – and that’s a promise!”

Recorded on the Central Coast using local talent, Hangin’ Out with the Old Fellas can be searched on Spotify and Apple Play.

Coast FM General Manager

Sarah Warry says that the awards come as no surprise

“Cameron’s achievements this year follow on from 11 ACRAs and four previous New Yorkers awarded to him during his commercial radio career,” she said.

“Cameron’s talents are internationally recognised year after year; we’re so thrilled to have him at Coast FM.”

Horn’s radio production work can be heard every day on COAST FM 963.

friends of the site for joining us for this special day,” Chairperson Colette Livermore said.

“We thank our four pioneering members – Eileen and Brian Paterson, Ray Galway and Ian Playford – for their hard work, vision, love and knowledge of nature and friendship over the 25 years.”

Anyone wishing to join Council’s Environmental Volunteers Program could join the group.

For more information go to sites.google.com/site/palm groveourimbahcreeklandcare or follow the group on Instagram.

Cameron Horn at the International Communicator Awards

David Mehan calls on Council to seek dredging support

Members of the group with Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna in Ourimbah State Forest; The group received a Community Landcare award in August

From page 1

Illegal e-scooter riders spark public safety fears

Burgess said he believed many youngsters were not aware they were breaking the law by riding along the pathways and always carried a document outlining legislation when walking to show offenders.

“At the age of 85, I have various health conditions and walk along the pathway every day for the mental and physical health benefits,” he said.

“Just recently I challenged five youngsters who were chasing each other at speed towards me on the path.

“These paths are used widely every day by many elderly residents and visitors, young mothers with prams, joggers and social walkers.

“I believe this is a major community welfare issue.”

Burgess said many people had indicated they would sign a petition if he started one.

“But at my age, that’s not something I am going to do,” he said.

While he is aware that enforcing the law is the province of police and not Council rangers and that police response times make apprehending perpetrators unlikely, he would like to see

police conduct a weekend blitz at the tourist hotspot.

“The longer this continues without any consequences, the worse the situation will get,” he said.

“I have seen a marked increase in illegal e-scooter and bike activity over the past couple of years.”

At the other end of the region, residents at Bateau Bay and The Entrance have also reported concerning incidents.

One reader said he and his wife were parking in the basement carpark at Bateau Bay Square on October 2 when two young boys came riding through parked vehicles on an e-scooter and then across potential traffic lanes where cars may have been moving in either direction.

“My vehicle was also moving, though slowly, to straighten up in the parking lanes,” he said.

“Had I been moving faster, or my wife getting out through the passenger door, or other vehicles moving in the driving lane, these boys at least would have been injured.”

Encountering the same boys with three or four others on the shopping level, the reader called security, who took one boy to the side.

“Presumably (they) either lectured him or at least called his parents or the police,” he said.

“I was informed by management that the child was well known to them and had been admonished before, but that they had no authority to do anything and if they rang The Entrance Police Station, their requests for assistance would be ignored.

“My question is why?

“If I had injured or killed the child the place would have been overrun by police.”

The same reader was also intimidated by three young girls all on one e-bike several days later at Shelly Beach.

He is calling for shopping

centres to self-police what goes on within their property and for police to be more proactive.

A second reader said riders continued to ignore clear signage in The Entrance town centre and on shared pathways in the area.

“They overtake pedestrians without warning, fail to wear helmets, and show blatant disregard for others,” he said.

“Their behaviour is not only dangerous – it’s arrogant and increasingly aggressive.”

He urged: weekend patrols in the town centre; active enforcement of signage and penalties for non-compliance; more installation and monitoring of CCTV cameras in

high-risk zones; advocacy for mandatory registration or number plates for highpowered e-bikes; and collaboration with NSW Police linking dangerous bike behaviour to driver licence eligibility.

A Central Coast Council spokesperson said the use of e-scooters currently remained illegal in NSW, unless ridden on private property.

“The use of e-bikes must be in accordance with the NSW Road Rules,” Council said.

“The NSW Government is continuing (its) review of the road rules relevant to the use of e-scooters and e-bikes, and it is anticipated that we will see amendments to the rules once their review is finalised.

“The policing of the rules in relation to the use of e-scooters and e-bikes is a police matter.

“In relation to Council erecting signage, it is not practical, nor feasible, to signpost the vast number of footpaths and shared paths across the local government area.

“Users are expected to abide by the relevant road rules, and if any incidents occur, police should be notified by the public.

“Council encourages residents to report any

interactions with these electric devices to the NSW Police to assist in allocating appropriate resources, if deemed warranted.

“Council does share educational material across various channels including social media and print in relation to the use of e-scooters and e-bikes with our community, including etiquette for cyclists using our pathway network.”

A spokesperson for NSW Police said police enforced legislation as far as they were able.

They said if no-one was injured in a reported incident, a team might not arrive on site “for some hours”, dependent upon other priorities, with police relying on intelligencebased proactive responses.

“People need to report incidents to Crime Stoppers so they can be used as intelligence,” police said.

“This way police can build up a pattern of behaviour and maybe identify perpetrators.

“Resources are tight, but that is not to downplay the intimidatory aspect of these incidents.”

Terry Collins

The two shared pathways on The Esplanade at Ettalong

NEWS IN BRIEF

Big weekend for Marine Rescue

Volunteers at Marine Rescue Brisbane Water were kept busy on Central Coast waterways over the long weekend.

Crews from Brisbane Water and Broken Bay were called to the assistance of a 5m open runabout experiencing engine problems after travelling to Pittwater.

A Kellyville skipper with six adults and three children aboard his 22’ bow rider developed engine troubles just south of the Rip Bridge and a 30’ cabin cruiser suffered engine failure on Brisbane Water.

In other incidents, one adult and three children in a 5 metre Haines runabout experienced a flat battery near Point Frederick.

Engine difficulties caused problems for three young people in a tinny at Booker Bay and a 10m motor cruiser experienced engine failure minutes after launching near Koolewong Marina.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Gosford lights up to remember Audrey

Gosford’s heart was glowing on Saturday night, October 4, as thousands gathered at Polytec Stadium for the inaugural Light Up Gosford.

It was a powerful community event honouring the memory of Audrey Griffin and demanding safer streets and a justice system that truly protects everyone.

The event, hosted in partnership with Stand With Audrey, filled the stadium with light, love and unity, transforming heartbreak into hope.

Families, friends, and complete strangers stood sideby-side dressed in white, united by a shared message: that Audrey’s legacy must spark lasting change.

For Audrey’s mother, Kathleen Kirby, the turnout was both emotional and empowering.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who came and supported Light Up and got behind this important event,” she said.

“To see close to 4,000 people, all wearing white, embrace a truly beautiful community movement is super powerful and will help in our journey to bring justice to Audrey’s life.

“Thank you to the bands, the sponsors and businesses, and for the whole community for making this event happen.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the evening was “absolutely amazing”, describing it as one of those nights that captured the true spirit of the Central Coast.

“It was such an incredible night – emotional, powerful and full of love,” Tesch said.

“You could really feel the strength of the Coast coming together.”

Premier Chris Minns was among those in attendance, joining Tesch and community leaders in reflecting on Audrey’s life and the movement her family has inspired.

“The Premier spent time speaking with people, having good, big conversations about what needs to change, and it gave everyone real hope that our voices are being heard,” Tesch said.

She said hosting Light Up in the heart of Gosford showed the potential of the city centre to unite people around meaningful causes.

“Bringing Light Up to the stadium really demonstrated what our community can do

when we stand together,” she said.

“It’s about more than remembrance — it’s about activating our city with purpose, and that purpose is safety, compassion and change.”

The Stand With Audrey initiative was founded following the tragic death of Audrey Griffin earlier this year.

It has since become a rallying movement calling for law reform, safer streets, victim support and community education.

The organisation works across four key pillars –advocacy and law reform, family-inclusive justice and victim support, education and

systemic change, and community safety and infrastructure reform.

Saturday’s event was a defining moment for the campaign, transforming collective grief into a call for systemic action.

The night featured an impressive lineup of artists, headlined by Birds of Tokyo, whose performance lit up the stadium and brought thousands to their feet.

The atmosphere was electric – both a concert and a vigil, blending joy and solemn remembrance.

Stalls, food trucks and information tents filled the precinct, while messages of

support and pledges for safer communities were written across a large memory wall in Audrey’s honour.

“You could see people of all ages, from children to grandparents, sharing in the same message of love and accountability,” Tesch said.

“That’s what made it so special – it wasn’t just an event, it was a community movement.”

Central Coast Councillor Jared Wright said the turnout showed the depth of local solidarity.

“The number of people in attendance showed that we are a tight-knit community here on the Central Coast, and we want to do everything we can to ensure tragedies like this never happen again,” he said.

As the night drew to a close, the stadium glowed with a powerful display of phone torches – a symbol of unity, resilience and hope shining over the crowd.

What began as heartbreak is now a growing movement for change, turning pain into purpose.

Skaie Hull

From left: Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, Lana Ratapu of Stand With Audrey, Light Up co-founder Greg Carey, Premier Chris Minns, Kathleen Kirby of Stand With Audrey, Member for Roberston Dr Gordon Reid and Member for The Entrance David Mehan

Fairhaven celebrates 100 years of op shopping

Fairhaven Op Shopping Village at Point Clare will host The Secondhand Social on Saturday, October 18, in honour of the inaugural World Op Shop Day, marking 100 years of op shopping in Australia.

This historic occasion commemorates an Australian tradition that began in Melbourne in 1925, when Lady Millie Tallis opened the nation’s first “opportunity shop” near St Vincent’s Hospital to fundraise for the x-ray department.

Her vision was to give secondhand stores a more dignified image while highlighting the wonderful opportunities they provided for both donors and buyers.

The concept quickly spread across the country, with

Residents will be consulted on a drainage price to be included in residential rates after Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig refused to allow Central Coast Council to simply transfer the charge from its water rates, no questions asked.

The drainage charge is $130 a year for properties less than 1000m2 up to $3,251.85 for properties more than 45,000m2 according to FAQ answers on Council’s website.

The charge is worth almost $20M each year and Council says it needs it to deliver essential services to the community.

It could opt to levy a stormwater charge as some councils do but at $25 a pop, it would not bring in as much money as the current drainage charge.

To keep the charge, Council will now have to ask the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a rate rise to take effect in 202627.

Authorities are investigating a series of acts of vandalism in recent months on Saratoga Island Nature Reserve, a small sandy spit surrounded by mangroves in Brisbane Water.

There will be increased patrols and surveillance after more than 50 native swamp-oak trees were cut down on the island, which is across the water from Woy Woy.

Saratoga Island Nature Reserve is also being damaged by illegal bonfires and dumped rubbish including shopping trolleys, unauthorised camping and broken glass.

charitable organisations everywhere embracing op shops to fund vital community programs.

Today, the term Op Shop remains distinctly Australian, shared only with New Zealand.

“This first World Op Shop Day

gives us the perfect opportunity to showcase what makes Fairhaven special and celebrate the incredible legacy of op

shopping in Australia,” Fairhaven Retail Manager Hannah Atkin said.

The event, from 9am-3.30pm will include entertainment throughout the day and food available at the on-site Fare Cravin’ Café.

A qualified appraiser will offer professional insights into how to value your antiques and behind the scenes tours will outline the journey donations take from arrival to the shop floor.

There will be extended stock displays on beautifully decorated tables with festive bunting.

The event promises to be a day of discovery, community connection, and celebration of sustainable shopping practices

Minister blocks drainage pricing plan

It is already asking IPART for an 8% water rate rise to take effect from 2026-27.

Minister Hoenig said Council has been advised that its request has been declined and advised its financial situation should continue to be managed according to the regular processes within the Local Government Act and in consultation with the local community.

Council’s water business was simplified in 2024 so it was no longer regulated by two different and at times conflicting pieces of legislation.

The NSW State Government passed the Water Management Amendment (Central Coast Council) Act 2024 and repealed The Central Coast Water Corporation Act 2006.

“Transitional arrangements were put in place as part of the Amendment Act to provide Council sufficient time to act under these regular processes,”

Hoenig said.

“Further, Council has been

advised that the following options are available to it in relation to the levying of a drainage charge after 30 June 2026: 1) Council can fund some stormwater drainage works by levying the Stormwater Management Services Charge under section 496A of the LG Act, without impacting the rate cap limits on General Income; and/or 2) Council can pursue a special variation to introduce a drainage charge reducing other general income.”

“If transfer of drainage costs requires an increase in general rates, it should also mean an equal decrease in water rates,” he said.

“That’s why public consultation is so important – so the public can gauge the combined effect across both general rates and water rates.”

Council has already increased its income from combined rates

by about 39% in the four years up to 2024.

IPART told council in 2022 that it could no longer include a drainage charge in its water rates from 2026.

IPART said the stormwater services provide benefits to the entire community not just specific customers and therefore should be funded through local government rates like other services that benefit the whole community such as maintaining public parks, roads and bridges,

In March of this year, councillors voted to ask the Minister to allow Council to simply move the charge to its residential rates.

The decision noted that there was no intent to raise additional general rates income from residents – apart from the annual rate cap indexation- as a result of the proposed change.

In April, Council adopted its long term financial plan to go on public exhibition with options to go to IPART in coming years for permission to retain a temporary

Crackdown on nature reserve vandals

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is working closely with the Brisbane Water Maritime Police and NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers to address the issue and help stop further vandalism.

Saratoga Island Nature Reserve is a popular spot for boaters and fishers with shallow shores and expansive water views.

Nature reserves like Saratoga Island are important to protect threatened species and vegetation communities to ensure they survive into the future.

The nature reserve safeguards endangered swamp-oak floodplain forests and coastal saltmarsh, seagrass beds and intertidal flats.

It is used by threatened birds including the white-bellied sea eagle, pied oystercatcher and crested tern.

Damaging vegetation, lighting fires or dumping of rubbish in a national park or nature reserve is an offence and heavy fines can apply to offenders.

NPWS Acting Area Manger Andrew Bayley said it was extremely disappointing to see the vandalism, particularly the

loss of 50 native swamp-oak trees.

“We have zero tolerance when it comes to the wilful destruction of our nature reserves that play a critical role in safeguarding important vegetation and threatened species,” he said.

“Dedicated NPWS staff work hard to preserve these areas as part of our conservation efforts.”

Anyone with information about the vandalism, or anyone interested in helping clean up or restore the island, can contact NPWS Central Coast Area office on 4320 4200 or email npws. centralcoast@environment. nsw.gov.au.

that have served Australian communities for a full century.

Fairhaven Op Shopping Village is at 209 Brisbane Water Dr, Point Clare, Fairhaven Op Shopping Village Fairhaven Op Shopping Village is a community focused op shopping destination supporting Central Coast people living with disability. Through the sale of quality second-hand goods, Fairhaven funds important community programs while promoting sustainable shopping and environmental responsibility. For more information email retail@fairhaven.org.au or call 0407 757 866.

rate rise of about 10 per cent that is due to expire in 2030-31.

In June, Council adopted the long-term financial plan, keeping that option open.

Then in September, Council voted to seek an 8% water rate rise to take effect in the financial year 2026-27.

Council has said nothing publicly about the Minister’s decision but Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid notified ratepayers after he advocated on their behalf by writing to the Minister.

The Minister replied to Reid on September 15.

His decision does not mean Council won’t be able to transfer the charge; it means Council will have to go to IPART for permission to transfer the charge.

As part of that process, residents will be asked for their input on the proposal.

The event will celebrate 100 years of op shopping in Australia

Resident Kevin Brooks says the Minister’s decision is a win for the community.

Merilyn Vale

Dr Gordon Reid in his Parliament House office Photo: Noah Secomb

More than 50 native swamp-oak trees have been cut down

Photo: NPWS

NEWS IN BRIEF

Who will be next Woman of the Year?

The search is on for the next Gosford Local Woman of the Year.

Newly crowned world high jump champion Nicola Olyslagers took out the award in 2025, and water safety advocate Louise Lambeth was named in 2024.

The Gosford Local Woman of the Year celebrates progressive thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates and community role models

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the award recognised remarkable women in the Gosford electorate whose efforts should be celebrated.

“The Awards are such a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on women who make significant contributions to our community,” she said.

Nomination forms can be found online at liesltesch.com. au, or at the Gosford electorate office at 71 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy.

They should be completed by 5pm on October 26.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

The Australian Reptile Park is celebrating the arrival of its newest resident, a ninemonth-old Eastern Grey Kangaroo joey named Milo, currently being handraised by dedicated zookeeper Annika Barker.

Milo came into Barker’s care when his mum wasn’t ready for the responsibility of raising him and tossed him from her pouch.

This is a very normal behaviour for kangaroos in the wild.

Park zookeepers were quick to step in and ensure Milo got the second chance he deserves.

“This is my first time handraising an animal and it has definitely been stressful,” Barker said.

Applications for the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program are now open, aiming to improve safety at community sport by increasing access to lifesaving equipment.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has emphasised the importance of the funding for the Central Coast community.

Second chance for joey Milo

“But I’ve been under the wing of our Head of Mammals, Seleena, who has been incredible in helping me feel comfortable and making sure Milo receives the very best care.”

Hand-raising a kangaroo is no small feat.

Joeys like Milo require around-the-clock care, including five bottle feeds a day, close monitoring, and plenty of comfort.

Barker has taken Milo everywhere with her to ensure he feels safe and secure.

Despite the demanding schedule, Barker said the experience has been more than rewarding.

“Milo is an absolute joy to have at home,” she said.

“Every time I finish bottle feeding him, he hops around behind me and eventually gets the zoomies.”

When Milo is strong and independent enough, he will join the kangaroo mob in the main park area, where visitors will be able to hand-feed him along with the rest of the kangaroos.

Meanwhile, visitors have until October 12 to meet Bluey and Bingo with daily live interactive shows and meet and greets and enjoy inflatable obstacle course, face painting and more as the school holidays draw to a close.

For more information visit www.reptilepark.com.au

Apply for a defibrillator now

“We know that the chance of survival following a cardiac arrest is as high as 75% when defibrillation is applied within four minutes, making the timely availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in our community so important,” she said.

“This program will save lives.

“The cost of an AED can be

out of reach for many of our grassroots sporting organisations and this program aims to improve safety in our community by increasing access to life-saving equipment when you need it most.”

Eligible sport and active recreation organisations across NSW can apply for grants of up to $3,000 to

purchase and install an AED at their facilities.

Tesch called on all local clubs to check their eligibility and apply without delay.

“This funding could save a life, so don’t delay in getting your application in,” she said.

Applications will close when funds are exhausted or by 1pm

on December 1 (whichever comes first).

With demand high and funding allocated on a first-in first-served basis, local sporting organisations are encouraged to apply now. Those interested in applying should visit www.sport.nsw. gov.au/grants/local-sportdefibrillator-grant-program

Annika Barker says hand-raising Milo is rewarding

Photo: Australian Reptile Park

Two leading community care organisations, Meals on Wheels Central Coast (MoW) and Catholic Healthcare’s Warnervale Wellness Centre, joined forces in a heartwarming collaboration recently to ensure vulnerable clients remained nourished, supported and socially connected during a temporary relocation.

For three months, clients of the Wellness Centre were temporarily relocated while the facility underwent refurbishments.

To maintain continuity of care, Meals on Wheels Central Coast stepped in to provide nutritious meals for the social group.

Joining forces to protect vulnerable clients

“This partnership demonstrates the power of community organisations working together with a shared commitment in supporting older people to stay connected and well,” Operations Manager of Meals on Wheels Central Coast Campbell McArthur said. “We were honoured to support Catholic Healthcare’s clients during this transition, making sure they could continue enjoying nutritious meals and meaningful social connections.”

The initiative ensured that dozens of Catholic Healthcare clients were able to enjoy nutritious meals and shared social time, preserving their health, wellbeing and routine while away from their regular centre.

Catholic Healthcare’s

Wellness and Respite Coordinator Michelle Webb praised the partnership.

“The temporary relocation could have been quite disruptive for some of our clients, but thanks to the support of Meals on Wheels Central Coast, their nutritional

needs were met without interruption,” he said.

“This collaboration exemplifies the power of community organisations working together with compassion and purpose.”

With the Wellness Centre now

reopened and ready for Spring and Summer programs, both organisations are looking forward to further opportunities to collaborate for the benefit of local residents.

If you are looking for out of home respite for the person you care for, contact Michelle Webb at Catholic Healthcare on 0498 011 516 or email michelle.webb@chcs.com.au for more information.

If you need extra support at home with cooking, you may be eligible for subsidised, nutritious meals delivered straight to your door by Meals on Wheels Central Coast, through My Aged Care or the NDIS.

Whether you need a break from cooking or simply want to supplement your weekly meals, Meals on Wheels Central Coast can help with affordable and convenient options. For more information go to www.ccmow.com.au or phone 4357 8444.

Start a water safety conversation, says Wright

With beach season now officially underway, Central Coast Councillor Jared Wright is urging beachgoers to be especially careful.

“Standing on the shoreline recently at North Avoca with the family of Luca Bennett, a young boy who tragically passed away at the beach last Summer, was a firm reminder of the need for each and every one of us to be vigilant and look out for each other,” Wright said.

“Sadly, 357 people fatally drowned in the water last year across the nation; that is almost one person each day in what was Australia’s most dangerous year in the water.

“With drownings becoming more prevalent, we all have a role to play in keeping our friends, family and community members safe.

“It can often start with a conversation, as simple as letting someone know where you are headed, encouraging people to swim between the flags and reminding those

around us to do the right thing and act safely.

“This is something we can all do.

“Every life we save as a community is another person that can go home to their friends, family and loved ones.”

Wright said the most moving thing about being at North Avoca with the Bennett family was that even in the face of unimaginable grief, they were actively using their experience to help others in the Central Coast community who had lost someone of their own.

“This enshrines the spirit of what it means to be Australian,” he said.

All levels of government have been working on increasing education around water safety and increasing measures to keep people safe.

“At a Council level for example, we have been looking at improving signage to make it readable for multiple languages with a focus on image-based messaging.

“Anything we can do to keep people safe is something worth looking at.

“Each drowning is more than a story; it is a person who is loved by those around them.

“Already this year, we have seen the tragic passing of Mercury Psillakis at Dee Why beach, an incident that has rocked the entire beach community and one that highlights what each of these incidents means to us.

“No-one is immune to the dangers of the water and it is important we all remember that.

“Whether you are a champion surfer or a first-time swimmer, we need to look out for everyone, because we never know when incidents will occur.”

Wright said that last year, less than a quarter of drownings occurred at beaches, with more than half occurring in regional and remote areas, in

places like rivers, creeks and dams.

“We also have a common misconception that it is young people who are most likely to drown, when in fact, the largest age group of individuals who drowned last year were people aged between 65 and 75,” he said.

“One of the most important things that we can all do is assess the conditions before entering the water.

“Taking just a few extra seconds could be critical.

“The more we take the time to do it, the more others around us will do the same.

“I think as a community, we also cannot be afraid to politely step in when we see or hear something that is not quite right.

“It could be anything from seeing someone rock fishing without a life jacket, to a young child wandering too close to the shoreline.

“When tragedy strikes, we often hear the stories of

onlookers who thought about acting, but these statistics highlight that thinking about acting is not enough.

“When I was younger, I did nippers at MacMasters Beach and one Sunday morning, a parent had fallen off his bike.

“He came to the beach, showing the remains of his helmet, and told the group that if he had not been wearing one, he would have died.

“I have never forgotten that and my parents and friends still recall it as one of the best displays of community spirit and education they have seen.

“Moments like this matter and it is a decision for action that all of us can take.

“If we each take one moment of action this beach season, we could potentially save many more lives and we cannot put a price on the value that would have for our community.

“This beach season, start that conversation, you just might save a life.”

Council wants to hear from youth

Central Coast Council is developing a new Youth Strategy for 2026–2030, and wants to hear directly from young people aged 12–24 who live, study or work in the region.

A Council spokesperson said with more than 50,000 young

people calling the Coast home, their voices were vital.

“We’re asking through an online survey: What’s great about living here? What’s working well? and What needs to change or could be better?”

Council said.

“Feedback will help us

understand what matters most to young people and how best to support them – guiding youth-led programs, services and opportunities for the next five years.

“Parents, carers, and youth sector professionals are also welcome to take part in the survey.

“Let’s make the Coast an even better place to live, connect and thrive for every young person.”

Those who complete the survey also have the chance to win a Beats Solo 4 headphone. Fill in survey by October 31 at www.yourvoiceourcoast.com

The survey is open to young people aged 12–24 who live, study or work in the region

Councillor Jared Wright is pushing the water safety message

MoW Relationships Manager Jason Millers (far left) with Operations Manager Campbell McArthur (far right) and Wellness Centre clients and staff

NEWS IN BRIEF

Christmas appeal to businesses

Challenge Community Services is calling on Central Coast businesses to step up this festive season and support children and young people in foster care through its first-ever Christmas Appeal.

With more than 450 children currently in Challenge’s foster care program and an office at Tuggerah, the appeal is seeking cash donations from businesses to help provide meaningful gifts and grocery vouchers for foster families this Christmas.

Executive Director Julie May said Christmas can be one of the hardest times of the year for children and young people in foster care,

“While our incredible foster carers provide love and stability, Christmas often heightens feelings of sadness and loss for children separated from their birth families,” she said.

Donate online via challengecommunity.org.au

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Supporting Coast’s emerging musical talents

Winners of the Central Coast Council’s flagship youth music competitions, Discovered and Battle of the Bands, have been announced.

Part of the 2025 Creative Engineers program, the awardwinning initiative continues to invest in the creative future of local young people, supporting emerging talents of vocalists, songwriters and musicians and connecting them with the Central Coast’s vibrant arts sector.

After a series of exciting heats, semi-finals, and a spectacular final at the recent Creative Engineers Showcase event, the following talented young artists have been crowned this year’s winners:

Children’s division (7-12 years): Discovered winner –Pixie Minerva; Battle of the Bands Kids Clash winner –SoulVessel; Vocal Development Prize – Evelyn McKim; MMAD Merchandise Package, including band development evaluation and opportunity –Coastal Chimps; and Inspiration Award – Mia Gordon.

Teens Division (13-17 years): Discovered Teens 1st Place –Pandora Moran; Vocal Development Prize – Ayva

McKim; Artist Development Prize – Maverick Leslie-Fitch; and Vocal Scholarship Prize –Shalais Guthrie.

Youth Division (18-24 years): Discovered winner – Paul Hagistefanis; Battle of the Bands winner – Chaos Vinyl; Studio Recording/Mixing Prize – Alana Suzanne; Songwriter Development Prize – Kassidy Lalor; Artist Development Prize, Songwriter Development Prize, Music Pathways Performance Prize – Kuthula; Creative

Engineers Personalised Development Package –Unprotected; and Creative Engineers Development Prize – 7 Car Pile-Up and The Leftover Z.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith congratulated all participants and highlighted the importance of the competitions in nurturing the next generation of creative leaders.

“The Creative Engineers

the winners and all entrants for their passion, dedication and talent.

“The energy, creativity and music on display through Discovered and Battle of the Bands was inspiring,” he said.

“These competitions showcase the incredible musical talent we have on the Central Coast.

“It was a privilege to present the awards and celebrate the achievements of such passionate young artists.

Program continues to provide meaningful opportunities for young people to develop their artistic skills and gain realworld experience in the creative industries,” she said.

“We are incredibly proud of all the participants and congratulate this year’s winners on their outstanding achievements.”

Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna shared his admiration for the young performers and congratulated

“I congratulate the winners and thank everyone who took part. You’re the future of our performing artist community.” Council extended its gratitude to the Creative Engineers Program sponsors including Damien Gerard Studios, Musicians Making a Difference, Maheraw Vocal Coaching, The Skill Engineer, Gina Jeffreys PL, and Central Coast Music and Arts Inc. for their ongoing support in making the competitions possible.

For more information about the Creative Engineers Program and to see photo highlights from the showcase event, search Creative Engineers 2025 at centralcoast.nsw.gov. au

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!

Mayor Lawrie McKinna with Battle of the Bands winner Chaos Vinyl

Ratepayers should come first

Central Coast households are being asked to tighten their belts yet again, while Council’s leadership takes home more.

At the same meeting where councillors approved an 8% increase in water rates, they also endorsed a 3.5% pay rise for the CEO, lifting his salary from about $543,000 to more than $562,000 a year.

Families across the Coast are already stretched by rising costs in food, fuel, and housing.

An extra hit to water bills will be felt immediately in the household budget.

To see this delivered alongside a $19,000 pay increase at the top shows how out of touch Council has become with the pressures their own residents face.

Leadership deserves fair pay, but timing and priorities matter.

Right now, ratepayers should come first.

Kameron

Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum SCAN ME

The community deserves confidence that Council is focused on easing cost-ofliving pressures, not compounding them.

Email, Sep 27 Evan Schrei, Niagara Park

No enforcement for e-cig bans

How long would a corner shop be operating if it decided to import cheap duty-free alcohol and sell it without a liquor licence?

Not long, and yet more than a year after the retail bans on e-cigarettes were introduced in Australia we still see retail tobacco shops blatantly advertising illicit vapes and selling them in plain sight of the law.

Same goes with illicit tobacco which can sell for as low as $2 a pack.

What impact does this have on youth uptake of tobacco products given the massive gains we have made in past years to get smoking prevalence down to around 8%.

Since the ban went into effect, l note a tobacco and vape store has been operating in my area within 150m of the Terrigal Police Station.

When l went to complain the constable at the station appeared to not even be aware that e-cigs had been banned from retail sale.

It’s baffling to those of us working in public health, trying to reduce the harms and health care costs from tobacco, to see the disaster that has been

created by allowing the tobacco gangs to undermine legitimate taxed retail tobacco sales.

The ATO estimates that Australia has lost an estimated $31B in tobacco excise revenue due to the rise of illicit tobacco and vape sales over recent years.

You would think NSW Health and the Police would have figured out by now that a small investment in proper enforcement would generate billions in lost revenue for the state.

Email, Sep 27 Tahir Turk, Wamberal

Athletic activity for all

Congratulations to both Coast Community News and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch for the article in CCN 506 promoting athletic activity for all.

While we acknowledge the place of competitive sport in Australian culture, we should

Wanted for public transport offences

Police have issued an arrest warrant for Kameron Ross and are appealing for public assistance to locate him.

see that as secondary to athletic activity/sport for the purposes of contributing to the physical and mental wellbeing of each of us, through exercise, social interaction, co-operative activity and enjoyment.

Such activity should be regardless of athletic ability or age, and where ‘winning’ is not the primary aim – or sometimes, even an aim at all.

Email, Sep 30 Sonnie Hopkins, Tascott Homeless

deserve real support

Recently, Central Coast Council cleared Memorial Park (at The Entrance) of homeless individuals to host a movie night.

Long-standing occupants were moved on – some reportedly (had been) there for months.

Yet just down the road at Picnic Point, a much larger and more entrenched homeless

encampment remains untouched.

The contrast is staggering. Council acted swiftly when its own event was at stake, but has failed to respond with the same urgency to the worsening situation at Picnic Point, where dozens of vulnerable people live in unsafe, unsanitary conditions.

Locals have raised concerns for months, yet nothing has changed.

This double standard deserves public scrutiny.

If Council can clear Memorial Park for popcorn and a projector, why can’t it address the growing crisis at Picnic Point with equal urgency?

We need consistent action, not selective enforcement.

The community deserves safe public spaces, and those experiencing homelessness deserve real support -not just displacement when it suits Council’s schedule.

Ross is known to frequent areas of the Central Coast and Ku-ring-gai, often travelling between these locations by public transport.

District, Tuggerah Lakes Police District and Kuring Gai Police Area Command.

He is wanted in relation to serious offences on public transport networks and has previously come under notice in the Brisbane Water Police

Anyone who has seen Ross or know of his whereabouts call PoliceLink 131 444 or Crimestoppers 1800 333 000.

Expensive trip for P plate driver

On Friday, October 3, at about 4.30pm the Traffic Response Group

motorcycle police detected a P2 driver driving a silver Hyundai i30 at 164 km/h in the 90km/h zone on the M1 Motorway at Mooney Mooney.

When stopped, the driver told

police that he was going around a slow car.

He produced a NSW Provisional P2 driver’s licence to police but the vehicle wasn’t displaying any P plates.

A $3054 fine was issued and 12 demerit points (doubled because of long weekend) for driving more than 45km/h over the speed limit, with a further

$330 fine and two more demerits for not displaying P plates.

His driver’s licence was confiscated on the spot and suspended for six months until April 2, 2026.

The driver tested negative for both alcohol and drugs and no vehicle sanctions were imposed.

Fined for driving 45km/h over the speed limit

Be prepared for bushfire danger

Charmhaven Rural Fire Brigade was quickly on the job to put out a fire that had spread into bushland from a pile burn at Woongarrah on Sunday, October 5.

Crews from Warnervale Rural Fire Brigade and Hamlyn Terrace Fire and Rescue assisted to extinguish the fire and cool the pile.

Firefighters said it was a timely reminder that we are now in the bushfire danger period and all pile burns required a permit prior to lighting.

“Know the conditions and don’t be the fire risk in our community,” a firefighter said.

For more information on safe burning, visit www.rfs.nsw. gov.au/safeburning

Also, be familiar with the fire danger rating system that will help keep you informed of fire risk throughout the danger period.

Prepare your home for bushfire and have your bushfire survival plan in place.

Call 000 immediately if you see an unattended fire.

Long weekend traffic incidents

Officers attached to the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were conducting stationary random breath testing on the Central Coast Hwy, Budgewoi, on Sunday, October 5, when a Toyota Corolla failed to stop as directed at about 1.40am and a pursuit was initiated travelling through local streets.

Shortly after, the Toyota came to a stop on Weemala St and the driver, a 40-year-old, man was arrested.

During a search of the vehicle, officers located cannabis.

The man was charged with various offences and granted conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court

on Tuesday, October 14.

In a separate incident at 8.30am the same day, a Subaru Impreza failed to stop at the Tuggerah Lakes Police stationary random breath testing on Central Coast Hwy, Bateau Bay.

Later, police went to a home in Tumbi Umbi and arrested the driver, a 39-year-old man.

He was taken to Wyong Police Station and charged with: drive motor vehicle during disqualification period; not obey direction of police/ authorised person; and use vehicle with defective body or structural member.

He was granted conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on Monday, October 27.

Ride to live a vital message

Central Coast Highway Patrol will hold a Safe Riders event promoting motorcycle safety as part of Motorcycle Awareness Month during October.

The community event will be on Saturday, October 18, at the Oak Milk Bar, Freemans Dr, Freemans Waterhole.

It will be a chance to chat with

Traffic and Highway Patrol officers and people from Transport for NSW and the Motorcycle Council of NSW. Motorcycle Awareness Month is held every year in October to raise awareness of the role that both drivers and riders play in improving motorcyclist safety.

For more information about safe riding tips visit www. ridetolive.nsw.gov.au

Email, Sep 29

Jim Boyd, The Entrance

Ross

Swan Lake reimagined in Duck Pond

The world’s most romantic ballet Swan Lake has been reimagined as a circus spectacular in Duck Pond by Circa, set to hit The Art House on October 30.

The classic tale of swans and hapless princes takes on quirky touches like the sequinned flipper-wearing ducks, a burlesque black swan, sumptuous aerials, jaw-

dropping acrobatics and of course feathers.

Circa is one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies known for pushing boundaries, and blending

Pseudo Echo comes to Laycock Street

Due to high demand, and the success of their previous tour run, iconic Australian band Pseudo Echo has extended its national tour to include regional shows, including one at Laycock Street Community Theatre on October 10.

Fans can relive the songs and sounds that defined an era with the Love An Adventure tour.

The Love An Adventure album saw the band gain worldwide success and a global fan base spanning Australia, the USA, Canada, Europe and Asia.

The band spent more than six months on the US Billboard charts.

The album, packed with hits including Don’t Go, Love An Adventure, Living In A Dream and the blockbuster Funky Town spent seven weeks at number one in Australia, six weeks at number one in New Zealand, topped the charts in Canada, and hit the Top 10 in the US, UK, Sweden and South Africa.

To coincide with the album’s 40th Anniversary, the band released a new remix of Love An Adventure – a dark rock remix from the forthcoming Machine Remixes album, slated for release late this year.

It was produced by lead singer Brian Canham.

“We incorporated elements of techno and industrial as well as the featured dark low-tuned guitar … in contrast to the original which had no guitar,” Canham said.

“There is a homage to the original version, incorporating the disco style string stabs originally recorded using the MSO.”

Pseudo Echo brings its Love An Adventure tour to Laycock Street Community Theatre on Friday, October 10, with support act Chris and Jaron Natoli opening the show at 7.30pm.

To book go to www. pseudoecho.net or laycockstreettheatre.com

circus with dance, theatre and movement.

Duck Pond as a cocommissioning partner.

The family friendly

acrobatics, and classical music.

Duck Pond by Circa plays The

24th October | 10:00AM – 2:00PM Evergreen

Swan Lake as you’ve never seen it before

Pseudo Echo

Two not-for-profit organisations have raised $20,000 for food relief on the Central Coast.

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre Inc (encompassing Bateau Bay Neighbourhood Centre), and The Bikers Hand created the Feed The Need Food Relief Concert on September 5, bringing the community together to raise much needed funds for locals struggling with food insecurity.

“A sell-out crowd filled the auditorium at Mingara and were begging for more as our fabulous community made the night a huge success,” a spokesperson said.

“Thank you to all the volunteers who worked hard for months to pull off this wonderful concert.

This year’s Art At Work Festival of Creativity event is expected to be bigger than ever.

It will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Friday, October 10, to Sunday, November 2, at the Red Tree Theatre on Tuggerah Strait.

Concert raises $20,000 for food relief

“Unfortunately food insecurity is growing every year.”

Artists donating their time for the concert were Adam Harvey, Bill Chambers, Duncan Toombs, The Rams, Sounds of Oz, Ron

Sinclair and King Rhythm, Kassidy Lalor and Ultra Violet.

MC Wayne ‘Ossie’ Osborne held the night together and photographer Mick Oliver captured the night on film.

Prizes for raffles and silent

auctions were donated by E Bisglobal Tuggerah, We Love Terrigal, Wamberal Pharmacy, Fresko Fruit Kincumber, JT Providore Tuggerah, Art of Hair Bay Village, Crown Plaza Terrigal, Cue and Crew Tuggerah, Ming Dragon, Mingara, Lawrie McKinna, Tricia Fortier, Matt Bendt, Karate Mingara, Stephanie Burns, Erina Men’s Shed, Lanas Café Berkeley Vale, Bamvino Erina Heights and Hello World Erina and Sandra Casey.

Festival of creativity at Tuggerah

This year’s festival will showcase the works of over 20 local artists exhibiting everything from traditional fine arts such as paintings, printmaking and sculpture to more niche offerings such as textiles, ceramics, wood and metalwork – coupled with a

range of events and competitions.

Art At Work is an organisation dedicated to fostering collaboration between local artists, businesses and the Central Coast community.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna will open this year’s leading local

Book Review by Julie Chessman

This is an engaging retelling of Homer’s epic journey.

Building on his previous retellings of Greek myths and legends, Stephen Fry’s The Odyssey is the second in his celebrated trilogy of Greek retellings, following Mythos and preceding Troy.

Being known for his wit, erudition, and gift for storytelling, Fry brings Odysseus’ perilous journey vividly to life, making the classic accessible and appealing to modern readers while honouring its ancient roots.

Transforming Homer’s epic poem into modern prose with humour, clarity and warmth, his version is not a translation in the academic sense, but rather a retelling, a reimagining of the ancient tale for today’s readers.

Fry approaches the tale of Odysseus with a storyteller’s

The Odyssey

By Stephen Fry

flair, blending traditional elements with fresh insight and humour.

He explains Greek customs and divine politics in a way that feels like a conversation with a witty friend rather than a lecture.

His encyclopaedic knowledge of mythology shines through, yet he never loses sight of the story’s emotional core.

Fry is not afraid to poke fun

at Odysseus’s hubris or the gods’ pettiness, so the narrative begins where the Iliad ends, following Odysseus as he attempts to return to Ithaca after the fall of Troy.

Along the way, he faces a series of daunting challenges: the wrath of Poseidon; the lure of the Sirens; and the menace of the Cyclops which balances terror with comic absurdity.

Stephen Fry’s Odyssey is a triumph of storytelling, making a cornerstone of Western literature both enjoyable and meaningful for a contemporary audience.

Whether you are a long-time lover of Greek mythology or coming to the story for the first time, Fry’s retelling is a rewarding, enlightening, and thoroughly entertaining read – a fresh perspective on a timeless classic.

Chessman

Julie

See the full book review and lots more book reviews on our website scan the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/book-reviews

community art event from 6-8.30pm on Friday, October 10.

“There are many quality artists and creative businesses with limited opportunities to show their work to the community and Art At Work aims to facilitate this,” founder Marion Mikkelsen said.

“It will not just be an art exhibition, with art for sale, but also an event that has interactive art activities and demonstrations.

“This year’s Festival of Creativity includes not only the visual arts but also Billy Elliott, the musical, which will be performed in the theatre.”

The exhibition will also delve into fashion, with local designer Rosemary Armstrong set to present at the art extravaganza.

She founded the Australian fashion label Tea Rose in 1981 and has been featured in Australian Vogue (including the 50th Anniversary Edition}, In Style and Madison magazines and participated in Australian Fashion Week.

Events this year will include featured weekends.

The Stone Real Estate Artist Challenge from October 10-12 will see artists are invited to create a time capsule that captures the essence of an aspect of life in 2025 for future generations to discover.

There will be cash prizes for winners.

Couture and Creativity: A vision in Fabric will take place from October 17-19.

See how Rosie Armstrong creates her work from ideas, fabric creation, design and completion.

Interactive Art will be handson creating led by Art At Work

The Bikers Hand supports 115 not-for-profit charities to help those struggling in the region to put food on the table. They need a bigger warehouse to house these food items, nonperishables and some frozen meals.

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre Inc helped 27,000 residents struggling with food and material aid in the past financial year.

The year before it was 24,000 and this year is expected to be higher again.

All monies raised at the concert will be spent on food and plans are already underway for a 2026 Feed The Need Concert.

If you would like to help/ participate see the Feed The Need Facebook page.

One of Marion Mikkelsen’s artworks

Cuvee by Bronwyn Hunter

Sounds of Oz performed on the night; Ultra Violet was popular with the audience

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Halekulani Book Fair

The Halekulani Community Library Annual Book Fair and Fete returns on Saturday, October 11, from 9am to 1pm at Halekulani Hall in Noela Place.

It will feature thousands of pre-loved books from crime and romance to fantasy, history, sport and children’s stories.

Stalls will feature homemade cakes, potted plants, DVDs, puzzles, and crafts.

New members are welcome to join the voluntary library on the day.

For more details, follow Halekulani Community Library on Facebook.

Friends of ABC

Claire Stuckey the singing librarian will be special guest speaker at the next meeting of Friends of the ABC at 11am on Thursday, October 16 at the Eleanora Hotel East Gosford.

As a postgraduate qualified librarian, she performed all professional activities at Gosford library until 2018.

She continues to work in professional roles on international bodies promoting children’s and young adult literature, writing and presenting internationally.

The event is free but registration essential - search Claire Stuckey at humanitix.com

See full stories online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Putt Putt Regatta returns to Davistown

The Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival returns on Sunday, October 19, with a Charity Dinner at the Davistown RSL on Friday night, October 17.

The state’s biggest family-fun watercraft event, the Davistown Putt–Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival celebrates the Central Coast’s culture, heritage and local character.

It has been held since 1996/97, with the Rotary Club of Kincumber an early organiser.

This year that Club returns to manage the event.

Rotary Kincumber has a strong link to various local heritage projects including the Shipbuilders Memorial Path, the 4 Villages Heritage Walk and Australia Day heritage events.

This year, as has been the case since 2019, all funds raised at the Regatta and the Charity Dinner will go to the Kids with Cancer Foundation, with over $60,000 so far raised to support children with cancer and their families from the local area and surrounds.

davistownputtputt.com/ charity-dinner/

On Sunday, October 19, the Davistown Waterfront will come alive with the Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival from 9am.

It’s all designed to provide family fun with market stalls, free centre-stage entertainment, children’s activities, heritage models, marine and motor vehicle displays and more.

There will be fabulous views of the heritage boats in action on the water including rides on the historic ferry Codock II, the ‘Putt About’ and the Grand Parade.

There will be raffles, auctions, both live and silent, and lucky draws.

For more information go

The Regatta Charity Dinner at Davistown RSL on October 17 costs $70 per head and includes a two-course meal and entertainment.

Rick Price heads for Avoca

Back in April 1995, Australian singersongwriter Rick Price released River of Love, the first single from his muchloved album Tamborine Mountain, which followed in July of that year.

The single, along with the album, made an instant impact on the ARIA charts.

In celebration of Tamborine Mountain’s 30th anniversary, Price is hitting the road for a very special national tour across Australia, with an appearance set for Avoca on October 11.

Produced by Price and acclaimed New York producer Ben Wisch, Tamborine Mountain featured an impressive line-up of collaborators including guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel on Foolish Heart and pop powerhouse Tina Arena, who joined Price for the moving duet Trust Me This Is Love.

The album’s title pays tribute to the stunning rainforest region in the Gold Coast hinterland near Beaudesert –Price’s childhood home and the inspiration behind many of the songs.

For more details see davistownputtputt.com or www.facebook.com/ davistownputtputtregatta

Bridge Building Man was written as a touching tribute to Price’s father and grandfather. Along with chart-topping classics like Heaven Knows, Not A Day Goes By, and Walk Away Renée, it continues to be a staple in Price’s shows. Fans will have the chance to relive the soundtrack of the mid-90s as Price performs the iconic album in its entirety, along with fan favourites from his extensive catalogue. Rick Price plays at 8pm on Saturday, October 11. Book at avocabeachtheatre. com.au

Rick Price

The Davistown waterfront will come alive at the Putt Putt Regatta on October 19

Sarah J Hyland vocals, Bobby Singh tabla, Damian Wright guitar

Children’s book company helps sisters process grief

After the passing of her son Logan in 2024 and his cousin Millie just 10 months ago, Holly Canda and her Central Coastbased sisters Nina and Georgia Wilson processed their grief by establishing an independent children’s book publishing company, Logi Bear Books.

Their debut book Where’d You Go? will launch on October 14 based on the true story of the family through the eyes of Diego, the pet dog, who embarks on a physical journey where he discovers that their love and presence lives on forever.

The aim of the book is to help siblings understand and process the big and confusing emotions and concepts that come with loss.

“As an educator for 10 years, I have used my knowledge of child development and psychology to write Where’d You Go? to be much more than a loving tribute, but a resource to families facing loss or just simply help answer children’s curious and emotionally difficult questions,” Canda said.

Logan was born at full term on November 21, 2024, but as

he was being born, for reasons unknown, his umbilical cord was clamped, cutting off his air supply and causing him to be born not breathing and with a low heart-rate.

He was resuscitated but he suffered severe brain damage.

“The doctors struggled to stabilise and stop his seizures,

however they continued to get worse,” Canda said.

“The MRI confirmed that all parts of his brain were affected by cerebral hypoxia and he passed away at 11 days old on December 2, 2024.“

When Logan’s second cousin Millie wasn’t making her milestones, specialists

Art at Work Festival of Creativity: Red Tree Theatre, Tuggerah * to Nov 2

when Logan was born, myself, my husband Kevin and our immediate family read picture books to him every day,” she said.

“We were amazed by the way picture books could make us smile, even laugh at a time that it didn’t seem possible.

“After Logan passed, writing short stories became my therapy.

“I started writing stories about what happened through the eyes of my pet dogs, Zuko and Korra.

“Then when Millie passed, I was struggling to sleep, tortured by the thought of Millie’s parents Lachlan and Catherine, having to explain to Hartley, their four-year-old son, who for the first time was learning about the complex and scary concept of death, what had happened.

Lisarow, and Nina, from Buff Point, both wanted to be part of the journey with Georgia illustrating the book and Nina becoming the business director of the independent publishing company.

“The name of our business was obvious to us: Logi Bear Books after our beloved Logi Bear (Logan),” Canda said.

“It all seemed to be coming together perfectly.”

“Millie’s mother Catherine used to be a junior editor and helped Canda develop the story with endless helpful feedback.

“We have all found the process extremely healing, by facing it head on, wrapped in love,” Canda said.

SHP = School Holiday Program

Central Coast Library School holiday programs:

- Fantasy RPG Experience: Gosford Regional Library *

- All Ages Lego challenge: Erina Library 2:30pm

- Zine-spirational Zine Making: Tuggerah Library 10am

Human Nature – Motown 20th Anniversary Regional Tour: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm +10 Oct

Toshy’s Jam Nite: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

SHP: Kids Pizza Making: Davistown RSL 10:30am

Permission to be Silly: Circus Camps: Roundabout Circus, Gosford 9am + 12:45pm

SHP: Kids Pizza Making: Kooindah Waters Golf Club 5pm

Central Coast Library School holiday programs:

- Painting With Broccoli: Bateau Bay Library

- Super Babies and superheroes w/ SJ Richold: Erina Library 2pm

- Grow a Grass Head, Tuggerah Library 11am

HSC Lock-In: Gosford Regional Library 4pm

Ivan Aristeguieta – All Bangers, No Mash!: The Art House Studio, Wyong 7pm

SHP: Tales at the Theatre: Laycock Street Community Theatre 10.30am

SHP: Whale Talks: The Skillion 2.30pm

Pseudo Echo – Love an Adventure Tour: Laycock Street Theatre 7.30pm

Kurt Sterling: Quiet I’m Having a Vision: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 7.30pm

Lennon/McCartney - The Album Show: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

Heads Talking: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 7pm

SHP: Macrame / Decoupage / Manga: Gosford Regional Gallery *

Crosstown Killers, The Silver Dragons, Dwayne Octane & The Premiums: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

suspected mitochondrial disease, but diet and physiotherapy things were looking up, which Canda said made her sudden passing in her sleep 10 months ago at only 14 months of age so shocking.

“I was studying novel writing through my pregnancy but

Brisbane Water Aboriginal Cultural Tour: Patonga, Warrah Trig Road 10am

Walking Cane: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

Jenny Marie Lang: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm

Central Coast Reads: Author Talk: Tank Water by Michael Burge: Brentwood Village Auditorium, Kincumber 10am

SAT 11 OCT

Fiji Day Central Coast: Memorial Park, Marine Pde, The Entrance 10am

Central Coast Oktoberfest: Polytec Stadium, Dane Dr, Gosford 11am + 5pm

Rick Price - Tamborine Mountain 30th Anniversary: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

Halekulani Community Library Annual Book Fair and Fete: Halekulani Hall, Noela Pl 9am

Central Coast Skatepark Series: Spring Fling: Bato Yard Skatepark, Bateau Bay 9am

Peter & The Wolf: Avoca Beach Theatre 11am

“While sitting in Logan’s bedroom at 3am in the morning I wrote the first draft of Where’d You Go?

“A story of their pet dog Diego who doesn’t quite understand where Millie has gone embarks on a physical journey to find her and bring her home, but on his journey he realises that she was with him all along.”

Canda’s sisters Georgia, from

Gillian Cosgriff – Fresh New Worries: The Art House Studio, Wyong 8pm

The Great Pretenders: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm

Lachie Gill – Give Me A Little Tour: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 8pm

4 Blokes + A Sheila: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

Dean Jenkins / Gyrate: Gosford RSL Club 3pm / 8pm

Dead Pennies, Time Wasted, Cynical Noise Freaks: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

The Great Pretenders: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 8pm

SUN 12 OCT

Come Clown Around With Us: Circus Workshop: Roundabout Circus, Gosford 10am

Mega Jam: Fun Haus Factory, Gosford 1pm

Mirusia – Celebration Tour: The Art House, Wyong 3pm

Canda is pregnant again and Logan’s little sister is due the November 25, only four days after Logan’s birthday.

“This is a beautiful surprise and gift from our Logi,” she said.

The book will be available on Amazon from Tuesday, October 14, and the in-person book launch will be on Sunday, November 2, in Sydney.

For more information visit the website logibearbooks.com.au

Tribute Concert - Paul Kelly vs Neil Finn: Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm Sweet Remedy Duo: Hardys Bay Club 2pm

Be Bop Lula Duo: Gosford RSL Club 1pm

The Ritzy Kids Live: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

Birds of the Central Coast: Erina Library 10am

Talking with Seniors Roadshow - Keeping your identity safe: 3 Literary Close, Kanwal 9.30am

Central Coast Choral Festival5: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 3pm & 7pm * to 16 Oct

The Roslyns – Vintage Harmony Queens: Laycock Street Theatre 11am

Nina Wilson, Holly Canda and Georgia Wilson

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Author talk at Brentwood

There will be an author talk by Michael Burge at 10am on Friday, October 10, at Brentwood Village in Kincumber, with morning tea to follow.

Burge will discuss his latest book Tank Water, a coming-ofage story and crime thriller with a large and gentle heart.

James Brandt didn’t look back when he got away from his rural hometown as a teenager.

Now, he’s returned to Kippen for the first time in 20 years because his cousin Tony has been found dead under the local bridge.

Burge is an Australian author and journalist who lives at Deepwater in the New England region.

The event is hosted by Words on the Waves Writers Festival and supported by Brentwood Village and Keyton.

Brentwood Village is at 1 Scaysbrook Dr, Kincumber

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

The West Coast 70s will have Pearl Beach rocking at 2.30pm on Saturday, October 11.

Presented by the Pearl Beach Progress Association and The Pearl Beach Arboretum the day will feature a two-hour concert showcase of the period in the arboretum.

A six-piece show band of experienced and accomplished musicians/singers will play a set list of bonafide hits from one of the most significant periods in the development of

Relive the hits of California 70s

contemporary pop music – the California scene from the 1970s.

Showcasing the biggest hits of The Eagles, James Taylor, Fleetwood Mac, Linda Ronstadt, The Doobie Brothers and many many more, the show features a band of vocalists (including Sophie Jones and Michael Carpenter) and first rate musicians.

It will take you on a journey where you’ll see how interwoven the paths of these artists were, and hear a timeless catalogue of material.

The Pearl Beach Progress Association and the Pearl Beach Arboretum are not-forprofit community-based organisations which rely on revenue from events and activities to manage overheads and community environmental initiatives

Put your dancing shoes on and come early bring a chair, picnic and drinks.

There will be ample parking available near the tennis courts, with access via Tourmaline Rd.

Smith Street Band plays Drifters Wharf

The Smith Street Band has just released a new track – Once I Was Wild – and will play Drifters Wharf in Gosford on October 12 ahead of the release of the album by the same name on November 21.

Once I Was Wild is the third release from the album, following on from earlier releases This Is It and Star Child.

The new track captures a bittersweet nostalgia.

“I’ve been writing this song for years,” lead singer Wil Wagner said.

“The verses came to me pretty immediately while on tour in America but I’d never really worked out how to use it until I came up with the line and the idea of ‘once I was wild’ and everything fell into place.

“It’s a very nostalgic song; we tried to make it feel bittersweet and wistful but ultimately hopeful.

“It’s about being innocent, stupid and free.”

The album was recorded at the band’s own solar-powered Bush House Studios in regional Victoria.

From their ARIA #1 record Don’t Waste Your Anger to 2022’s Life After Football (triple j Feature Album), the band has continued to evolve while fiercely maintaining their independence through Pool House Records.

The Smith Street Band plays Drifters Wharf at 6pm on Sunday, October 12.

Buy tickets at drifterswharf. com.au

Since forming in 2010, The Smith Street Band has carved out a singular space in Australian music, combining raucous punk spirit with raw emotional storytelling.

REGATTA CHARITY DINNER

Friday 17th October 2025

Davistown RSL

Starting from 6pm.

Tickets $70 per head

On sale at Davistown RSL

2-course meal Entertainment

There will also be raffles, auctions (both live and silent) and Lucky Draws.

DAVISTOWN PUTT PUTT REGATTA & WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL

Sunday 19th October 2025 from 10am

This is our foundation event, and we invite you to celebrate the boating legacy of the Davistown area.

• 30-50 wooden boats & Putt Putts

• The Grand Parade

• Putt Putt Challenge

• Amusements & Rides

• Market Stalls

• Premium Food

• Heritage Maritime Model Display and Much More

The crowd will rock put to The West Coast 70s

The Smith Street Band Photo: Ian Laidlaw

Body lump, lymph ...

Reception area

Fall (over)

Pancake day, Shrove ...

Premonition

Nursery rhyme, Old King ...

Diner

The Feds (1,1,1)

Nobleman

For keeps

Lending

A big weekend line-up at Gosford’s Fun Haus Factory starts with Kurt Sterling presenting his new one-man comedy show, Quiet, I’m Having a Vision - a razorsharp hour of storytelling, satire, and unfiltered wit –on Friday, October 10.

Known for his surreal, offbeat humour and brilliantly unpredictable delivery, his new show takes aim at the absurdities of modern life with a keen eye and a deeply local heart.

Sterling’s journey from a Woy Woy Roosters footy kid to a global comedy name is a story in itself.

A St Peters High School graduate, his roots run deep through the Central Coast — from his first job at KFC Woy Woy to training at the world-

Big week at Fun Haus Factory

renowned École Philippe Gaulier in France.

A fixture at major festivals including Sydney Comedy Festival, Adelaide Fringe and Edinburgh Fringe, Sterling is also the creative force behind

viral sketches like If Squid Game Was Filmed in Australia, which helped propel his unique brand of Aussie satire to millions.

Now, he’s bringing it all home.

In-house restaurant Beau’s

Burgers, will be serving up eats from 5pm alongside happy hour drinks, before Sterling takes the stage at 7.30pm.

On Saturday, October 11, Lachie Gill presents his acclaimed Give Me A Little Tour.

in 2022, his soulful voice and magnetic presence earned him the title of The Voice Australia winner.

Following an 18-month hiatus, Gill returns with a collection of raw and heartfelt

songs that reflect a new chapter in his musical journey.

Audiences can expect an intimate, emotionally charged performance as he shares both his hits and new work, alongside the stories behind them — a glimpse into the artist he’s become since stepping out from the national spotlight.

Joining Gill on tour is fellow rising talent Reuben De Melo, with Pace Randolph opening the evening, setting the tone for a night of moving, contemporary Australian music.

Enjoy Happy Hour cocktails and local eats from Beau’s Burgers from 5pm, before the music begins at 7.30pm.

The Fun Haus Factory is 141 Mann St, Gosford. Bookings at funhausfactory. org.au/whats-on

Two Coast artists take out top awards in art prize

Two Central Coast artists have won major awards in the prestigious 2025 Hornsby Art Prize.

Rachel Lucas of Killcare won the Sculpture Award for her sculpture The Survivor, a stoneware ceramic, with glaze and copper wire.

Claire Tozer of Yattalunga won the Drawing Award for her photographic print Flow, an ink pen and pencil on paper artwork that is inspired by her local area.

“Hand built to a complete form, torn apart and partially reconstructed with copper wire, The Survivor expresses faith in human endurance despite the ravages of time,” Lucas said.

Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre recently.

“Thank you to all the artists who entered the Hornsby Art Prize and to the judges who had the difficult job of selecting the winners,” Hornsby Mayor Warren Waddell said.

“Congratulations to our winner, award recipients and finalists.

“Hornsby Shire Council is committed to supporting arts and culture and it is fantastic to come together and celebrate local and Australia-wide talent.”

Tozer said living near the ocean, lagoons, rivers and bushland on Darkinjung Country inspired her.

“There is so much to paint and draw here,” she said.

“It balances mass against negative space, that which survives against that which has been lost, to evoke perfection, still fully realised, seen clearly in the mind’s eye.”

`Get ready to raise a stein and celebrate Coastie style when the region’s first major Oktoberfest festival lands at Polytec Stadium on Saturday, October 11.

Brought to life by a powerhouse collaboration of local brewers, food vendors and event partners, Central Coast Oktoberfest promises a massive day of beer, food, music, and community. It will showcase a carefully curated lineup of the region’s best craft breweries, including Six String Brewing Co, Bay Road Brewing, Block n Tackle Brewery, Big Little Brewing, Goons Brewing and Oakhaven Brewing.

“After recent rains, the clouds parted, and the sky and water were bright again.

“It was such a joy to see I wanted to draw a watery landscape in blue.”

Entries to the categories of painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and sculpture

competed for a total prize pool valued at $23,000, with the major prize worth $10,000.

This year’s judging panel were Director of Gosford Regional Gallery Tim Braham and artist Stephen Hall.

Hosted by Hornsby Council in partnership with the Hornsby

Get set for Oktoberfest

From crisp lagers to bold IPAs and true-to-style Oktoberfest

Art Society, the Hornsby Art Prize is a national art prize and exhibition promoting and celebrating outstanding Australian contemporary art.

The winners were presented their awards by Hornsby Shire Councillor Janelle McIntosh at a special ceremony at the

Session one, from 11am4pm, will feature Bootleg

and

The exhibition is being held at the Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre until September 28, Tuesday through to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Entry is free.

For more information, visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au/artprize

Session two, from 5pm10pm, will see Beddy Rays, The Good Kids, Chaperone, and the Oompah Loompah Band take the stage.

“This is the beer festival the Central Coast has been waiting for,” event organiser Chloe Smith said.

“It’s about bringing together local brewers, great food, incredible live music, and our community, all in one iconic location.”

The event is strictly 18+. Tickets are on sale now via Ticketek.

For updates, follow @ CentralCoastOktoberfest on social media or visit central coastoktoberfest.com.au

Kurt Sterling

Lachie Gill

Steinbok and East Coast Juices. There will be a stacked live music lineup across two ticketed sessions.

Rascal, Hot Potato Band, The Punk Rock Hillbilly

The Cat Snatchers

Oktoberfest will take place at Polytec Stadium on October 11

Bootleg Rascal will play during session one

Claire Tozer with her work Flow; Rachel Lucas with her work The Survivor

Business & Property

During the pandemic lockdown, Ben Robinson picked up scraps of timber in a friend’s garage and built a wine rack for fun.

Five years later, the Central Coast small business owner has turned that hobby into Ben’s Got Wood.

“It’s not foreign to me as I have been entrepreneurial since I was young,” Robinson said.

Before starting the business, he ran a sales company, but after the pandemic, he needed a new direction.

“I fell into something I really

enjoyed doing and decided to see if I could turn it into a business,” he said.

The name Ben’s Got Wood was first dreamed up as a joke with a mate, but it stuck.

Robinson’s first major project was a chicken coop for friends, later dubbed Cluckingham Palace.

The humour carried through his designs, inspiring other tongue-in-cheek names such as Coop De Grass, The Old Yolks Home, The Lay a Day Inn and The Egg Factory.

Behind the playful branding is a serious commitment to sustainability.

“Most of the coops you can buy are flat-packed, and they’re not durable, whereas my coops will last 10-plus years,” Robinson said.

Using quality timber, he helps families interested in keeping chickens at home.

Backyard flocks provide fresh eggs, natural pest control, organic fertiliser and less reliance on food systems.

Even bedding and eggshells can be reused in the garden.

“Owning chickens is great fun for kids too,” Robinson said.

As his skills grew, Robinson expanded to more complex

From chicken coops to tiny homes

builds, achieving his original goal – designing tiny homes.

From his 120sqm West Gosford workshop, he now leads a team of tradespeople creating custom builds, including his own Shepherd’s Hut.

Originally from England, Robinson is inspired by popular English designs, with curved roofs and timber finishes.

Tiny homes, he says, are not just about downsizing.

With fewer materials, solar or rainwater integration, and efficient use of space, they significantly reduce environmental impact.

Robinson adapts designs to client needs, whether that means on or off-grid systems, compostable toilet compatibilities, accessible design, or multi-generational spaces.

“We put in handrails and fully tiled floors for one elderly gentleman,” he said.

He also embraces quirky requests.

“I didn’t know what it was when I was asked, so I had to learn how to build a goat milking station,” he said.

For Robinson, that flexibility – meeting customers’ specific

needs – is central to his business model.

“My goal has always been to provide a high-quality product at an affordable price, supporting the Central Coast community that’s become my home,” he said.

This October 18-19, visitors to the Morisset and Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show will see two of his standout creations on display: the

Shepherd’s Hut – already showcased at the Sydney Tiny Home Expo – and his largest chicken coop design.

From a Christmas tinkering project to a sustainable buildings business, Robinson’s journey shows how creativity and long-term thinking can reshape the way people live. For more information visit facebook.com/bensgotwood

Ben Robinson at a tiny homes expo

Ivona Rose

Ben Robinson inside his Shepherd’s Hut

More kudos for Council’s green initiatives

The Central Coast has secured a place in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories for the fifth consecutive year, gaining international recognition.

This year’s finalist story, The Green Dream: Conscious campaigns unearthing an Eco Destination, celebrates a region where nature, culture and community are at the centre of both the visitor experience and local pride.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the Central Coast’s fifth consecutive year in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories Competition was a proud moment for the community.

“The Central Coast is blessed with more than 40 beaches along an 87km coastline,” he said.

“Receiving global recognition for the fifth year running highlights our commitment to sustainability and strengthens our appeal to eco-conscious travellers.

“It’s a win for local businesses and a step forward in preserving the region’s natural beauty for generations to come.”

The ECO campaigns positioning the Central Coast as an ECO Certified Destination

include a four-day itinerary featuring certified operators such as Iris Lodge Alpacas, Firescreek Botanical Winery and Treetops Adventure.

The itinerary also spotlights operators progressing on their ECO certification journey, including Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures and Girri Girra Aboriginal Experiences.

Building on these efforts,

Council partnered with local non-profit Take 3 for the Sea to host the Ground Swell Litter Lab Masterclass, equipping local tourism operators with practical waste reduction strategies.

“Through initiatives like the Ground Swell Program, we’re reminded that as custodians of our beautiful land and community, tackling litter is a shared responsibility,” one attendee said.

“Together, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable environment that supports not only our businesses but also the wellbeing of future generations.”

Following a rigorous audit, the Central Coast has now progressed to Ecotourism level certification with Ecotourism Australia – reinforcing its commitment to preserving natural assets for future generations.

Now in its 11th year, the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories competition celebrates sustainable tourism good practice stories from destinations around the world.

The Central Coast’s continued inclusion reflects its leadership in sustainable and responsible tourism.

To learn more about Council’s ECO Destination journey, visit www.lovecentralcoast.com/ ecotourism

BUSINESS BRIEF Upgrade for Ourimbah service station

The Metro service station and workshop on the Pacific Hwy at Ourimbah will be redeveloped pending approval from Central Coast Council.T

The servo is located opposite the Tall Timbers Hotel and has long been a fixture in the area. It will be a total overhaul for the longstanding aged and outmoded station and workshop which has become cluttered and has haphazard parking. The servo will be rebuilt from the bottom up.

Plans include demolishing all on-site structures and installing new underground fuel tanks with a total capacity of 220kl.

The sales building and canopy will be reoriented for better vehicle manoeuvrability for fuelling and delivery purposes. There will also be improvements to stormwater drainage, site security and external presentation.

The redeveloped service station will feature new Metro branded signage. See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Captain Cook Lookout Photo: Remy Brand, Destination Central Coast

Blue Lagoon top holiday destination

Blue Lagoon Beach Resort was proud to be named Most Outstanding Family Holiday Destination at the inaugural Central Coast Visitor Economy Awards on September 12, saying the awards program had been transformative.

Designed to unite and strengthen the region’s visitor economy by celebrating individual successes, amplifying ideas, fostering

collaboration, and inspiring growth, the program saw finalists take part in a six-week professional development program which included masterclasses with industry mentors in marketing, content creation and public speaking.

The journey culminated in a Regional Showcase Day, where each finalist presented live on stage to peers, industry leaders and a panel of expert judges.

“To be recognised as the

Central Coast’s Most Outstanding Family Holiday Destination is an incredible honour,” Amy Luttrell, who was a member of the park’s marketing team participating in the program, said.

“The awards program has been a rewarding journey that not only celebrated our business, but also gave us the tools and confidence to continue growing and innovating.

“We’re proud to represent the Central Coast and to play our part in the region’s thriving visitor economy.”

With cabins, caravans, and campsites located right on the sand, Blue Lagoon Beach Resort is committed to supporting local partnerships and ensuring that the Central Coast remains a leading destination for visitors of all ages.

Learning about careers in water industry

Central Coast Council recently partnered with The University of Newcastle, GHD, Rumbalara and the Central Coast Academy of STEM Excellence to deliver an engaging and educational event for high school students across the Central Coast.

The H2Kn0w STEM Day, which took place on September 23, aimed to inspire young minds by showcasing the diverse and exciting career opportunities available in the water industry through hands-on learning.

Seven Central Coast high

schools participated in the event, with students rotating through five interactive stations designed to spark curiosity and build practical skills.

Activities included creating a water reservoir and pipeline, analysing aquatic ecosystems, building water filters, experiencing infrastructure planning through VR and drones and exploring the impact of weather on water quality.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the program reflected Council’s commitment to supporting young people and helping them thrive.

“The H2Kn0w STEM Day gave students a hands-on look at how science and technology are transforming the way we care for our most precious resource, water,” he said.

“It’s about inspiring young people and showing that our region is a place where they can use their skills and creativity to make a real difference for our community and environment.”

Council’s Director of Water and Sewer Jamie Loader said engaging students in STEM was essential to ensure the future security of the region’s water supply.

“The challenges of climate change, population growth and infrastructure renewal mean we need the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators to join the water industry,” he said.

“The H2Kn0w STEM Day gives students a first-hand look at the real world applications of their learning and why it matters for our community’s future.

“By supporting these skills early, we’re helping to build a pipeline of talent that will protect and secure the Central Coast’s water future for generations to come.”

Amy Luttrell from Blue Lagoon Beach Resort, Ellen Suarez from Central Coast Council and Ines Machuca-Sharpe from Blue Lagoon Beach Resort

Students taking part in the educational day

Do you know a local woman who resides in the Terrigal Electorate who deserves to be recognised?

This award is a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions made by women in our community.

To nominate, contact my office using the contact details below Hurry, nominations close Friday, the 25 o October! th

Tammy Jackett, 2025 Terrigal Local Woman of the Year

Heritage home saved as high-rise units proceed

A heritage-listed residence at 5 Bent St, The Entrance, will be retained, refurbished and repurposed for community or residential use as part of a new nine-storey apartment complex.

The residential block, to be built across 5, 7, and 9 Bent St, consolidating a total 1,577sqm, will comprise 45 apartments over two levels of basement parking with 78 spaces.

There will be a mix of one, two and three-bedroom units with private open spaces in the form of balconies or terraces, along with communal open spaces at ground and rooftop levels.

A notable feature of the development proposal is the careful relocation and integration of the heritagelisted dwelling at 5 Bent St.

This early 20th century cottage, recognised for its

historical and architectural significance, will be carefully dismantled, catalogued, relocated within the site and integrated into the overall residential scheme, including new elevated foundations to comply with flood planning requirements.

Characteristics of the Federation-era timber cottage

include a gabled roof, timber weatherboard cladding, and detailed verandah features.

Houses on the remaining two lots at 7 and 9 Bent St will be demolished.

Bent St and the wider Entrance precinct are undergoing a significant shift from low-density housing

toward higher density, mid-rise residential character.

This transformation is driven by recent rezonings and updated planning controls under the Central Coast Local Environment Plan 2022 and Development Control Plan, which encourage greater building heights, increased floor space ratios, and high-

quality urban design in key centres like The Entrance.

Recent approvals in the immediate area reflect this trend.

Notably, a comparable multistorey mixed-use residential flat building of a similar height and scale has been approved at 1–3 Bent St.

Help shape future of our lagoons

Larger scale developments, such as the Bathla Group’s proposal for 414 apartments at 9–33 The Entrance Rd, further demonstrate growing investor confidence and the precinct’s evolution into a higher-density residential hub.

The development application (DA/1069/2025) can be viewed on Council’s website.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to have their say on the future of four local lagoons (Avoca, Cockrone, Terrigal and Wamberal) until Wednesday, October 29.

The draft Coastal Lagoons Coastal Management Program (CMP) presents a list of proposed actions to improve water quality, manage flooding and erosion, protect biodiversity and enhance recreational access.

This will ensure the lagoons remain healthy, accessible and resilient for

generations to come.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the CMP was a great example of Council’s commitment to sustainability and community-led planning.

“Our lagoons are part of what makes the Central Coast so special,” he said.

“The draft Coastal Lagoons Coastal Management Program is about protecting them for generations to come.

“I encourage everyone in the community who swims, walks, paddles or simply enjoys our coastal lagoons to have a say.

“Your input will help shape the document and the actions Council will take to protect the health of these important waterways.”

Residents are invited to view the draft actions and background studies, complete the online survey and attend one of four in-person drop-in sessions at each lagoon.

The Cockrone Lagoon drop-in will be held from 8am-noon on Sunday, October 12, at Bonnie lookout – 2358 Del Monte Pl, Copacabana.

The Terrigal Lagoon session will take place from 8am-noon

on Tuesday, October 14, at Terrigal Rotary Park, 11 Terrigal Dr.

To find out more about plans for Wamberal Lagoon, attend a session from 8am-noon on Sunday, October 19 at the lagoon in Remembrance Dr, Wamberal.

The Avoca Lagoon session will be held from 2-6pm on Tuesday, October 21, at Jack Muller Picnic Area, 1 Ficus Ave, Avoca Beach.

Council Director Environment and Planning Luke Nicholls said local input was important to ensure the CMP reflected

community priorities.

“The Coastal Lagoons CMP is focused on protecting and enhancing the health, resilience and enjoyment of the Coast’s four lagoons,” he said.

“We know healthy lagoons mean thriving ecosystems, safer recreation and better water quality.

“The actions in the CMP have been co-designed with the community and developed

based on scientific studies and expert advice.

“Now we’re asking for broader feedback to help prioritise what actions matters most.

“This is your chance to influence the draft plan by completing the online survey.”

To have your say and for more information, search ‘waterways’ online at youvoiceourcoast.com

NSW NATIONAL PARKS & WILDLIFE SERVICE

Notice of 1080 baiting

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting an aerial baiting program in Popran, Brisbane Water and Watagans National Parks.

Aerial baiting is scheduled for 13th October 2025 to 27th October 2025

The operation will use 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison for the control of wild dogs and foxes.

The program is designed to minimise predator impacts on wildlife, especially threatened species, and to minimise the impact of wild dogs on neighbouring stock.

Signs will be placed at all authorised entry points to the baiting location.

Domestic pets are not permitted in National Parks and Wildlife managed lands. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Land managers and landlords, please notify tenants or visitors to properties adjoining the proposed baiting location.

Please contact the NPWS Central Coast Area Office on (02) 4320 4200 for more information or check the NPWS web page alerts.

Montage of the proposed apartment block in Bent St; The heritage-listed house at 5 Bent St

BY CHERALYN DARCEY

Propagation is one of the most rewarding ways to grow new plants from the ones you already have.

It is nature’s version of recycling and renewal, and gardeners have been using it for centuries to expand their gardens and share their favourites.

There are two main types of propagation: sexual and asexual.

Sexual propagation occurs when seeds are produced from two parent plants, creating a new plant with its own unique mix of traits.

Asexual propagation is different.

It uses cuttings, division, grafting, budding, or layering to create an identical copy of the parent plant.

DOWN IN THE GARDEN How Do You Propagate?

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

If you would like to try growing from seed, begin with quality seeds and follow the directions carefully.

Always check the “sow by” date before buying, and store packets in a cool, dry, dark place.

Avoid opening the packet until you are ready to plant and use all the seeds once opened. Some varieties need soaking before planting, while others must be sown at a speci c depth or in certain soil types, so always read the instructions rst.

Saving your own seeds can be exciting, especially since the results are often a surprise. Choose healthy, strong parent plants and wait until seed pods turn brown or black before harvesting.

Dry the pods indoors in a bright spot out of direct drafts.

Once dry, they may release the seeds on their own, or you can gently break them open.

Store your collected seeds in a labelled envelope or paper bag somewhere cool, dry, and dark until planting time.

Many gardeners prefer to grow new plants from cuttings. Each plant type responds differently, so experiment with various approaches.

 Softwood cuttings come from young, soft stems and can root in water, although they need careful attention.

 Greenwood cuttings are slightly rmer and more reliable.

 Semi-ripe cuttings suit conifers and evergreens and should be taken once stems

begin to rm up.

 Hardwood cuttings are best taken when plants are dormant. They take longer to root but produce strong, long-lived plants.

There are also leaf-bud cuttings, where a single leaf with a bud is used, and leaf cuttings, where a whole or partial leaf is planted.

Some species, such as African violets, can regenerate from just one leaf.

Root cuttings are taken from larger roots during dormancy and work well for plants like poppies and mulberries.

When preparing a cutting, the technique you choose matters.

A nodal cutting is made just below a node where roots are most likely to form.

A heel cutting includes a small piece of the main stem pulled away with the side shoot.

Some gardeners encourage roots by slightly scraping the bark to expose inner tissue, while others allow the cut end to dry and form a callus before planting.

To encourage root growth, use a rooting hormone or a homemade alternative.

A simple mix of one tablespoon of honey in two cups of boiling water, cooled before use, works well.

Another option is a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in 1.5 litres of water.

Some old-school gardeners

even swear by a dab of Vegemite on hardwood cuttings because its vitamin B content seems to help!

The right growing medium is vital.

While some cuttings can root in water or garden soil, most do best in a mix designed for seed raising and cuttings.

You can make your own by combining two parts coir peat, two parts compost, and one part river sand.

This blend offers good drainage, air circulation, and stability.

Some plants multiply through underground stems such as bulbs, corms, tubers, and rhizomes.

These store energy for new growth and can be divided to create new plants.

If you grow agapanthus, daylilies, or daisies, you have probably already used this method without realising it.

Simply dig up the clump, separate the sections, and replant.

Layering is another simple and reliable method.

Some plants naturally form roots when a stem touches the ground.

You can copy this by bending a stem to the soil and pegging it in place.

For plants that cannot reach the ground, try air layering by wounding a small section of stem, wrapping it in moist

moss and compost, and sealing it until roots appear.

Once they do, you can cut and plant it as a new specimen.

Grafting is used when two plants are joined together at the stem.

This is common with apples, citrus, and other fruit trees and is often used to create dwarf or hardier varieties.

Grafting allows gardeners to combine the best traits of two plants in one.

If you are wondering which method suits different plants, here are a few examples:

Seeds: grevillea, avocado, most annuals and perennials.

Stem cuttings: rosemary, pothos, geranium, wattle, lemon, mulberry, fuchsia, hibiscus.

Leaf cuttings: African violet, aming katy.

Division: peace lily, Boston fern, snake plant.

Soil layering: spider plant, string of pearls, ivy.

Air layering: g, magnolia, camellia, rose.

Propagation is a wonderful way to expand your garden and learn more about how plants grow.

Experiment with a few methods and nd what works best for your favourite plants.

The results will not only ll your garden with life but give you a deeper connection to the natural cycle of renewal that every gardener treasures.

Health & Education iContact supports Coast surf lifesavers

Volunteer surf lifesavers across the Central Coast will be seeing summer in a whole new light this season thanks to a generous local initiative from iContact Optometrists at Erina Fair.

The family-owned practice has announced it will provide free prescription sunglasses to all active patrolling members from the Coast’s 15 surf

lifesaving clubs, from Umina to Soldiers Beach.

Co-owner and optometrist Deborah Feng Yu said the program recognises the vital community role lifesavers play in keeping local beaches safe.

“Our surf lifesavers spend countless hours under the harshest glare imaginable,” she said.

“Protecting their vision isn’t

just about comfort, it’s also about safety.

“This is our way of giving back to the people who give so much to our community.”

The sponsorship was launched at this year’s flagraising ceremony held at Terrigal Surf Club.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna welcomed the sponsorship, saying the idea of helping local volunteers with high quality

glasses was a perfect example of local businesses supporting the region.

The initiative is open to all patrolling members who hold current credentials with Surf Life Saving Central Coast. Recipients can visit iContact at Erina Fair to be fitted with prescription sunglasses tailored to their eye health and sun exposure needs.

Surf Life Saving Central Coast President Matt Slatery

welcomed the innovative sponsorship gesture.

“It’s rare to see a local business support every club right across the region,” he said.

“This partnership directly improves the wellbeing of our volunteers and recognises their year-round commitment to beach safety.”

With more than 2,000 volunteer lifesavers patrolling

Workshop for mental health and resilience

Mental health advocate and motivational speaker Craig Ball has secured two significant grants to deliver his Mental Health and Resilience Workshop across the Central Coast over the next 12 months.

One grant, awarded by Central Coast Council, will support delivery of the program as part of Mental Health Month in October, in partnership with Toukley Neighbourhood Centre.

The second, from the Hunter, New England and Central Coast

Primary Health Network (PHN), places Ball as one of three finalists in a competitive pitch event at which he will present his program for the chance to secure additional funding beyond the minimum grant allocation.

Both grant opportunities will be delivered in conjunction with Toukley Neighbourhood Centre, ensuring the workshops reach deeply into the community and provide accessible, practical training for people from all walks of life.

The PHN “Change Makers: Pitching for Prevention” event will be held on Thursday, October 16, at the Beachcomber Hotel, 200 Main Rd, Toukley, from 5.30-8.30pm.

Members of the community are encouraged to attend and support the important initiative.

For more information and to register visit thephn.com.au/ news/change-makerspitching-for-prevention.

Ball’s workshop is the result of 20 years of experience delivering cognitive

• Divorces

• De facto

• Children's Issues

• Property

• Binding Financial Agreements

psychology-based training across diverse groups.

One blue-collar team he worked with in 2016 credited his program with helping them achieve more than 1,000 days without a lost-time injury.

He also credits the principles within his program for helping him manage his own psychological injuries after his military service.

“My mission is to reduce the suicide rate and raise the level of emotional competency and psychological wellbeing for

WILLS & ESTATES

• Probate, Wills & Disputes

• Power of Attorney

• Enduring Guardianship

everyone on the Coast,” Ball said.

“This is about giving people the skills to build resilience, manage stress, and support each other in times of need.”

Ball said that with suicide continuing to be a leading cause of death among Australians under 45, he was determined to spread awareness and provide practical tools that made a difference in everyday life.

CONVEYANCING

• Purchase & Sale of Property

• Refinancing Mortgages

• Purchase & Sale of Business

• Leasing

• Retirement Villages

the Central Coast each summer, the program represents one of the most extensive local sponsorships of its kind.

iContact plans to run the initiative through the 2025–26 patrol season and hopes it will inspire other local businesses to look after those who keep the Coast safe.

Patrolling members can drop into iContact’s Erina Fair store to be fitted for the glasses.

Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt St Gosford FAMILY LAW

COURT APPEARANCES

• Criminal Law

• AVO Matters

• Traffic Matters

• Drink Driving

Email: lemery@lindaemery.com.au

Web: www.lindaemery.com.au

Deborah Feng Yu and Mayor Lawrie McKinna; Young surf lifesavers are eligible to receive high-quality sunglasses

Craig Ball

Northlakes students give a bit back

Students from Northlakes High School spent a day giving back to the community during their last week of school.

The week is always full of fun both inside the school gates and out in the community.

On Wednesday, September 24, the Class of 2025 popped on their gardening gloves and high vis workwear and ventured up to Camp Breakaway to volunteer their services, led by Year 12 Advisor Blake Dawkins.

Staff at Camp Breakaway greeted the students and gave them jobs to do around the grounds.

They weeded, mulched and did a general tidy-up, also managing some free time to enjoy the facilities at Camp Breakaway.

The staff provided them with

Staff at Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) have been named finalists for the 2025 NSW Health Awards for their extraordinary contributions to the NSW public health system.

Now in its 27th year, the awards showcase the excellence delivered by so many people and teams across NSW Health every day.

Two local projects are among 41 finalists from across the state.

CCLHD public health clinicians are competing for the Excellence in Multicultural Healthcare Award for their project Increasing Vaccination Access for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities, an outreach program which took education and free vaccines to TAFE campuses on the Central Coast.

Meanwhile a local cardiology team is behind Enhancing Guidewire Efficacy for Transradial Access (EAGER), an

morning tea and cold drinks and the school rewarded them with pizza for lunch.

“Volunteering is an incredible way to make a positive impact and your efforts have contributed meaningfully to the wellbeing and strength of your

community,” a school spokesperson said.

“By giving your time, you have developed valuable skills such as teamwork, communication, empathy, and problem-solving.

“These experiences not only

benefit those you have helped but also enrich your personal growth and future opportunities.

“Your selflessness and dedication during such a busy and important year in your education are truly commendable.

Recognition for health staff

innovative contender for the Health Research Award.

The EAGER trial was designed to test whether heart procedures performed through the wrist (transradial access) could be streamlined and made more efficient by using a smaller Baby J guidewire to reach the heart.

NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce said she was incredibly proud of the staff, volunteers and health programs that made up another

remarkable group of finalists.

“The NSW Health Awards recognise the great work our staff do every day to improve the lives of our patients and the communities they serve,” she said.

“I congratulate all the finalists, but I also want to acknowledge the exceptional work being done across the system every day by their colleagues – our teams of doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health and support staff.”

“You have set a positive example for your peers and demonstrated the powerful role young people can play in creating a better society.

“We are incredibly proud of your achievements and the positive impact you continue to make.”

CCLHD Chief Executive Scott McLachlan said he was proud of the achievements of the local finalists, who had been recognised for their passion and commitment.

“It’s wonderful to shine the spotlight on our local finalists and celebrate their achievements,” he said.

“Across every corner of our organisation, our staff are giving their all – researchers are pushing boundaries, clinicians are reimaging care,

teams are developing new services – and we’re very excited to showcase these efforts and the innovation happening right here on the Central Coast.”

The finalists and winners will be celebrated at the NSW Health Awards ceremony on October 30 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.

The full list of finalists is available on the NSW Health website.

HEALTH BRIEF

Latest health spend “reactive”

With emergency departments at Central Coast hospitals remaining under stress, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has labelled the NSW Government’s announcement of a $30M investment in short stay surgery as another example of “reactive health funding”.

“While any effort to improve access to care is welcome, without long-term planning, workforce investment and structural reform, this will be a temporary solution to a permanent problem,” a spokesperson said.

“This announcement reflects a familiar pattern.

“A crisis builds, the NSW Government makes a small investment and our doctors, nurses and allied health staff are left to urgently fit in additional patients.

“This is not reform; it’s damage control.

“The health system is in chronic distress, and one-off injections do not fix the underlying issues.

“We need a sustained, system-wide strategy.”

The spokesperson said emergency departments remain overwhelmed, with only 33.1% of patients leaving withing six hours according to the latest Bureau of Health Information report.

Only 66.1% of non-urgent surgeries were performed on time, down from 82.4 per cent in the same quarter the previous year.

“These figures are not just disappointing; they are dangerous,” the spokesperson said.

“Delayed surgery means delayed recovery, prolonged pain, and worsening health.”

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Dr Kathryn Taylor, Donna Moore and Monique Feeney from the Increasing Vaccination Access for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities; Dr Adam Bland, Amy Kelty and Assistant Professor Tom Ford from Enhancing Guidewire Efficacy for Transradial Access

Students from Northlakes High and teacher Blake Dawkins at Camp Breakaway

$20,000 raised for Prostate Cancer Foundation

A Central Coast family has rallied the community to raise more than $20,000 for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), while honouring the life of much-loved husband and father, Mike Berton, who died from prostate cancer in 2021 at the age of 53.

The 4×4 Prostate Cancer Awareness Fundraiser was held on Saturday, September 20, during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month at the Watagans National Park. It attracted supporters from across the region who came together for a day of four-wheel adventuring.

Mike’s wife, Jen Berton, said the family launched the event to shine a light on the risks of prostate cancer and ensure more men knew the importance of early detection.

“Mike was fit, healthy, and in the prime of his life,” she said.

“None of us ever imagined that prostate cancer would take him so quickly.”

In 2019, the diagnosis came as a shock.

“He had no symptoms,” Berton said.

“His cancer was detected late and had already advanced.

“Despite treatment, he passed away in 2021, just 22 months later.

“One minute, my kids had a fit, healthy and fun-loving dad, and the next he was gone.”

Berton said that watching someone you love to go through prostate cancer was devastating.

“We felt helpless at times, but after Mike’s passing, I knew we had to do something positive in his name,” she said.

Bridge Club donation goes to Wyong Cancer Day unit

Members of the Central Coast Bridge Club recently visited the Wyong Cancer Day Unit where Nurse Unit Manager Tracey Strong-Wilbe demonstrated the new equipment and explained its benefits for patients and staff.

The funds have been used to purchase vital equipment for the unit including a medical trolley and a patient chair scale.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support from the Central Coast Bridge Club,” she said.

“Their generosity has made a

real difference to our unit, and it was a pleasure to show them how their contribution is helping us deliver better care.

“On behalf of Central Coast Local Health District I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Bridge Club and all who contributed to the fundraiser.”

“This fundraiser is our way of giving back, raising awareness, and making sure no other family has to go through the same pain without knowing the risks.”

transformed their grief into lifechanging results for other families impacted by this disease,” Savage said.

“They are not only raising vital funds, but they’re also helping spark much-needed conversations about prostate cancer and the importance of early detection.

“Funds raised from the event will help PCFA drive forward new research and provide lifechanging support to men and families affected by the disease.”

Berton said the 4×4 Prostate Cancer Awareness Fundraiser was a way to honour Mike’s memory whilst raising awareness and funds for prostate cancer.

“If sharing Mike’s story means one man gets tested earlier, or one family is spared the pain we went through, then it’s all worth it,” she said. You can still donate to the family’s fundraiser by searching ‘prostate cancer’ at fundraise. pcfa.org.au

PCFA CEO Anne Savage said the family’s fundraising efforts were both inspirational and lifesaving.

“Jen and her family have

Across the Central Coast alone, more than 3,400 men are living with prostate cancer, and more than 300 are newly diagnosed each year.

Public Notice

Fox Control Program 2025-26

For more information about prostate cancer and to find a local support group, call 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.prostate. org.au.

Protecting Native Species on the Central Coast

Central Coast Council will be conducting a fox control program in Council natural area reserves from 14 October 2025 until 30 June 2026 in the following areas.

East Gosford, Fountaindale, Glenning Valley, Gosford, Holgate, Matcham, Mt Elliot, North Gosford, Springfield, Tumbi Umbi, Wamberal and Wyoming,

Bensville, Davistown, Empire Bay, Erina, Green Point, Kincumber, Kincumber South, Macmasters Beach, Picketts Valley and Saratoga, Blue Haven, Jilliby, Warnervale and Wyong.

Predation by foxes is a key threat to many native animals. This targeted fox control program aims to reduce the impact of predation by foxes on native animals.

Methods utilised for this control work include ground shooting, trapping, den detection (using detector dogs) and den fumigation.

Warning signs will be placed at public access points to inform the community when operations, involving the use of firearms, are in progress. For your safety, members of the community are advised to not enter any area, or allow your pets to enter, when warning signs are in place.

Pet owners are encouraged to keep their pets safe and prevent them from entering natural areas at any time. Dog owners must comply with any signage indicating dogs are prohibited in an area otherwise enforcement action may ensue.

For further information regarding the program and specific reserves involved in this program, visit Councils’ website centralcoast.nsw.gov.au and search ‘pest animals’ or phone 02 4306 7900.

Supporters came together for a day of adventuring and fundraising

The Wyong Cancer Day Unit has received a generous donation of $7,000 from the Central Coast Bridge Club raised during their successful Girls Night In fundraiser held earlier this year.

Members of the Central Coast Bridge Club with Wyong Cancer Day Unit Nurse Unit Manager, Tracey Strong-Wilbe

Wyong Roos to exit Newcastle comp

The Wyong Roos have made the decision to exit the Newcastle competition.

At season’s end, it is customary for Wyong Leagues Group Board and Management to reflect on the year that was, to develop strategies for the future.

As part of this planning, views are gathered from key stakeholders, namely the club’s coaches, managers, players and support staff.

This year, after due consideration of the feedback received, the viability of continuing to field teams in both the Newcastle and Central Coast competitions emerged as an important consideration.

The decision to re-enter the Newcastle competition in 2020 was made at the height of COVID, when the future of league going ahead was very uncertain.

The Newcastle competition at that time provided a ready-

made opportunity to continue to compete at a high level.

Since then, the Roos have participated strongly in both competitions and have achieved many great results, however the challenges of competitively fielding sides in

two high-quality competitions are immense.

It has therefore been determined that the Club’s best interests will be better served by exiting the Newcastle competition and consolidating its efforts solely on the Central

Coast competition from next season.

Chairman of Wyong Leagues Group Board, Anthony Newell, said the decision was made with all due consideration to what is best for the club and supporters.

Disabled surfers return to Umina

The Central Coast branch of the Disabled Surfers Association (DSA) returns to Umina Beach on Saturday, November 22, with free volunteer training.

Following the success of last season, the group needs to build on its volunteer base.

“Without volunteers we cannot run our events, so we need your help,”a spokesperson said.

New volunteers or returning volunteers wanting to refresh their skills can register by

searching ‘DSA Umina’ at humanitix.com

Sign in on the day upstairs at Umina SLSC from 8.45am for a 9am start.

There will be a theory session followed by in-the-water training.

DSA provides an opportunity that allows those with a disability to experience the quintessential Australian pastime of surfing, a pastime that able-bodied often take for granted.

Volunteering consists of helping participants to and from the beach, and assisting

“By focusing entirely on our local competition, we believe that it will allow us to channel our resources far more directly and effectively,” he said.

“We also believe that it is giving the supporters what they want.

“In essence we have concluded that the current situation where we are straddling two demanding rugby league competitions, we are diluting our opportunities.

“Importantly, we were also pulling our supporter base in two directions when trying to support their club.

“This move to one competition will allow us to return to our roots and assist through all grades in player growth and junior development programs through our Academy.”

In a further commitment to the game on the Coast, the Group has also just announced that it has commenced work on over $3M worth of upgrades to the playing amenities at its home ground this season.

Jodie does Coast proud

from September 26-28.

The three-day championships saw athletes from all over New Zealand compete, along with two Australian clubs, one NSW state team, and one Australian national lifesaving team.

Mead came first in the U17 female 200m swim with obstacles, the U17 female 100m rescue medley manikin and the U17 female 100m manikin carry with fins.

She also came second in the U19 female super lifesaver event and was part of the winning medley relay teams and mega relay for Australia.

them in and out of the water, including tandem boardriding.

“We always need help with setting up and packing down too,” the spokesperson said.

“Smiles are always encouraged.”

Volunteers do not need to know how to surf, they just need to be willing to get wet and have some fun.

A rash shirt will be provided on the day but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own wetsuits.

For more information on DSA, go to disabledsurfers.org.

Fundraising bowls day at Ettalong

Bowlers from Pearl Beach, Ettalong and visiting clubs are inviting community members to have a bowl or support bowlers and enjoy the facilities at Ettalong Bowling Club facilities on Sunday, October 12, to raise funds for the volunteer group Guide Dog Handlers.

The group formed in 1983 and over ensuing years volunteers have been active in fundraising in the surrounding areas from The Entrance to the Peninsula.

In addition to raising vital funds, the group has been involved in community education and awareness campaigns including

International Guide Dog Day and White Cane Day.

Members with low vision or blindness have shared their experiences, helping to educate the Central Coast community about Guide Dog access rights, etiquette and how best to assist a person using a white cane.

Support group President Merran Rudder said it cost more than $50,000 to breed, train and raise one lifechanging Guide Dog.

“Every dollar from the community counts as Guide Dogs NSW/ACT only receives minimal government funding,” she said.

“We appreciate the Central Coast community who continue

to visit our stalls and the generosity provided to us by Central Coast shopping centres

who allocate space for our fundraising activities.

“We acknowledge the

wonderful support that the Ettalong Bowling Club and their members continue to provide as we are a small group of highly dedicated people who are passionate about the work that Guide Dogs NSW/ACT undertakes.

“We look forward to meeting visitors and members at the charity bowls day at the club.”

Bowlers pay $10 and must register at 11am; visitors can simply come and enjoy the club facilities.

There will be Guide Dogs merchandise on sale, an auction and raffle with a number of donated prizes.

For more information, visit www.guidedogs.com.au

Taylor Ray a huge loss

Taylor Raywill leave the Mariners upon the expiration of her contract.

Ray joined the ahead of the 2024/25 season on a one-year contract, after spending the previous seven seasons with Sydney FC where she amassed more than 60 appearances, won three A-League Championships and earned her first Matildas cap.

She quickly became a favourite with not only her teammates but with the wider Mariners Family.

Ray impressed in the early stages of the season as a midfielder but played the majority of the season out of position as a centre-back due to injuries in that area.

She played every minute of the regular A-League season, missing the semi-final first leg clash with Melbourne City due to injury, but retuning for the second leg and the grand final battle with Melbourne Victory.

Pearl Beach bowlers with some of the members of the Dog Handlers support group

Volunteers do not need to know how to surf

Wyong Roos home ground, Morry Breen Oval at Kanwal

Jodie Mead has done Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club proud at the NZ Pool Rescue Championships, held in Auckland

Central Coast teenager Liliya Tatarinoff has been selected to race for Australia in the women’s sprint squad at the Track Cycling World Championships to be held in Santiago, Chile, from October 22-26.

The selection follows her success at the 2024 Junior Track Cycling world championships in Luoyang, China, where she came fourth in all three events she raced: Sprint, Keirin and the 500m Time Trial.

“NSWIS pulled the funding for track cycling sprint earlier this year, effectively shutting the door for developing sprinters in NSW,” her father Mark Tatarinoff said.

“This is a sport that Australia is traditionally successful at in international competition, so

Sprint rider Liliya bound for Chile

this decision still makes no sense.

“With no access to an international level coach and former world champion Sean Eadie, as well as access to the Dunc Gray velodrome and all the other sport support mechanisms that NSWIS had supplied, our young sprinters have had to look elsewhere to continue their development.

“Liliya and her life-long sport sister Maya Dillon were eventually accepted by Shane Perkins (former World champ in the Keirin) and the Western Australian Institute of Sport.

“After six weeks of training there, she rode exceptionally well at the Australian sprint team trials camp in Brisbane in August, surprising the coaches – who were cognisant of the upheavals this year has brought.”

Tatarinoff joins 27 other riders

in the ARA Australian Cycling Team bound for Chile.

It is the largest Australian team assembled for a Track Worlds since 2017 and

comprises five endurance men, five endurance women, four sprint men and four sprint women.

AusCycling Executive General

ACCESS PEST CONTROL

Manager of Performance, Jesse Korf, said the team represented a great blend of experience and fresh talent –Olympic medallists, seasoned campaigners, athletes on the rise and those making their debut.

“After the intensity of the Olympic year, the World Championships this year are our first real step on the road to LA 2028, and they will also serve as an important marker on the way to next year’s Commonwealth Games,” Korf said.

“It’s an exciting moment to see this group come together and test themselves on the world stage.”

Tatarinoff, 19, earned her debut selection in her first year racing as an elite.

AusCycling Head Coach of Acceleration and Action, Eric Haakonssen, said the sprint

squads “reflects our strategic priorities – building a worldclass sprint program capable of contending for medals now while laying the foundation for LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032”.

“For the women, this balanced squads sees Kristine Perkins returning as a steadying force alongside Alessia McCaig and Molly McGill, with Liliya Tatarinoff earning selection in her first year out of juniors,” he said.

“This mix gives us both immediate podium potential and an eye on fast-tracking the next generation through a clear technical and physical development plan.

“The excitement is not just about Santiago – it’s about the breakthrough moments and the progression these athletes will carry forward into future campaigns.”

Liliya Tatarinoff competing in China last year

Coasties shine despite Roosters’ loss

It was heartbreak for the Sydney Roosters in the NRLW grand final on Sunday, October 5, as the Brisbane Broncos stormed home in the dying minutes to snatch a 22-18 victory –ending the Roosters’ unbeaten run and denying them back-to-back premierships.

said they had their hands under the ball and it didn’t touch.”

However, several Central Coast stars have capped off their standout seasons with national call-ups, earning selection in the Australian Jillaroos squad for the upcoming Pacific Championships.

For the many Coast players in John Strange’s Roosters side, the loss was tough to take after a remarkable campaign built on talent, teamwork and local pride.

The decider turned on a moment of controversy, when Broncos powerhouse Mele Hufanga crossed for the matchwinning try with just minutes to go.

In a desperate tackle, Central Coast stars Olivia Kernick and Jasmin Strange appeared to hold Hufanga up, but the onfield referee sent it upstairs as a try – a call that many fans and pundits still believe was wrong.

“Did you see it touch the grass?” coach John Strange asked post-match.

“There’s probably a bit of guesswork – the girls in there

Despite the heartbreak, Strange was full of praise for his players, who fought until the end of an 18-game winning streak spanning two seasons.

“I’m just really happy with the effort and the fight of the girls,” he said.

“That’s all I can control – our team and what happens with decisions out there, that’s out of our control.”

The Roosters had hit the lead 18-12 midway through the second half thanks to two quick tries – both converted by Central Coast sharpshooter Jocelyn Kelleher, who was flawless with the boot.

But the Broncos rallied late, with Hufanga’s barnstorming run sealing the result before full-time drama saw players from both sides square off in a fiery exchange.

The grand final was another showcase for the Coast’s influence on elite women’s rugby league.

Strange’s lineup featured

Taina Naividi, Eliza Lopamaua, and Aliyah Nasio — all with Central Coast ties, alongside the coach himself. Kelly again led from the front as captain, Kernick was tireless in defence, and Kelleher’s composure under pressure highlighted the Coast pathway’s success from grassroots to NRLW.

Isabelle Kelly, Olivia Kernick, and Jocelyn Kelleher have since been named in the Jillaroos squad, joining teammates Rima Butler, Keeley Davis and Jess Sergis.

For the Central Coast trio, it’s another proud milestone – one that reinforces the region’s growing reputation as a women’s rugby league powerhouse.

More than 40,000 fans packed into Accor Stadium for the NRLW decider – the biggest attendance in the competition’s history.

Isabelle Kelly in action on the field

Isabelle Kelly, Olivia Kernick, Jasmin Strange, Jayme Fressard,

Skaie Hull

Jasmin Strange