Coast Community News #516

Fight to save iconic amusement park

Residents in shock after Koolewong fire claims 16 homes

The community is still reeling after a devastating bushfire destroyed 16 homes and damaged a further nine at Koolewong on Saturday, December 6.

Specialist fire investigators continue to look into the blaze as fire crews remain on the ground making the area safe and ensuring remaining trees are structurally sound.

News of the fire first broke at around 1pm on Saturday at which time four homes had been lost, with reports of more homes destroyed surfacing during the afternoon and early evening and the fire jumping Woy Woy Bay due to a northerly wind and putting homes

at Phegans Bay and nearby suburbs at risk.

A downpour of rain at around 7.30pm, along with a reduction in wind, gave a blessed reprieve to firefighters and residents but concerns remained that more fires would flare up with 103 hectares burnt at that stage.

A spokesperson for the Rural Fire Service said there were around 250 firefighters on the scene at the height of the blaze, along with multiple aircraft, and although the fire was declared contained on Tuesday afternoon, crews would remain on site in coming days.

Cr Rachel Stanton with ferris wheel owner Brenton Pavier and Johanna Haas

Crews from Avoca Beach Rural Fire Brigade were among those battling the blaze

Photo: Captain, Avoca Beach Rural Fire Brigade

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Fires, community strength and a system that must catch up

The bushfires at Koolewong this past week were a sobering reminder of how quickly danger can descend on our coastal communities.

EDITORIAL

It was, in every sense, the Coast at its best.

Here on the Central Coast, the picture is very different.

The company has been attempting to improve its infamously patchy coverage in the Bouddi area for years.

objectors, is a system out of step with the reality we now face.

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They were also a powerful reminder of the strength that exists here on the Coast.

As smoke rose across the bay, our first responders moved without hesitation.

The RFS, Fire and Rescue NSW, Police, paramedics, Red Cross volunteers, Council crews, neighbours and local businesses all stepped up in a coordinated and humble show of service.

Neighbours checked on one another, evacuation points were readied, and information was shared at speed.

These events have again highlighted our increasing reliance on mobile phone coverage during emergencies.

Alerts, evacuation messages, weather updates and coordination between agencies all depend on stable telecommunications.

Yet for many on the Bouddi peninsula, coverage remains unreliable.

Optus has faced plenty of criticism in the national media for outages and 000 access issues.

Its efforts have repeatedly hit a wall due to a planning system that simply isn’t fit for the modern age of connectivity.

Residents deserve robust debate about towers, locations and design.

That debate must not, however, drag on for years at the cost of community safety.

A planning regime that effectively prevents the installation of vital communications infrastructure, while offering no timely alternatives or clear guidelines to industry or

Koolewong showed us what works; quick response, trusted information, community solidarity.

But it also exposed what does not work.

When phone signals falter and warnings struggle to get through, lives are placed at unnecessary risk.

As we enter hotter and more unpredictable Summers, government at all levels must confront this gap.

The Coast deserves a planning system that reflects the world we live in, not the one we left behind.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Christmas has arrived on the Coast

Council has announced the return of their Christmas on the Coast program this December, with a festive series of events and activities ready to delight residents and visitors alike.

Parts of the region will become a coastal Christmas wonderland, featuring twinkling tree lights, holiday window displays, carol singing and visits with Santa.

From browsing Christmas markets and savouring traditional holiday meals to participating in interactive workshops, there’s an activity for everyone to enjoy.

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Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the Christmas on the Coast program had become one of the region’s most anticipated annual traditions, helping bring communities together during the holiday season.

“Christmas is a special time for families, and Council is proud to deliver a program that brings joy to our town centres and creates opportunities for people to connect,” he said.

“Christmas on the Coast continues to grow each year, and in 2025 we’re looking forward to a bigger, brighter and more inclusive celebration for all ages.”

The town centres will host larger-than-life Christmas installations, with Christmas trees in Gosford, The Entrance and Toukley, and wreaths in Wyong and Terrigal.

Free Santa photos, live entertainment and Christmas carols will also be available across the region.

Council Director of Community

and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said this year’s events program reflected the Council’s strong commitment to creating inclusive and memorable experiences for everyone in our community.

“We’re dedicated to delivering events that bring people together and make lasting memories across the Central Coast,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to all the festive events and activities taking place across the Coast this December, including the much-loved Christmas window display competition.

“Local businesses in Gosford, Terrigal, The Entrance, Toukley and Wyong will be getting into the festive spirit by decorating their shop windows.

“People visiting these town centres can explore the window displays and vote for their

favourite via QR codes in the windows for a chance to win a $250 gift card.”

Voting opened on December 1 and closes on January 2, with winners to be announced on January 14.

Council’s dedicated destination website, Love Central Coast, features a family-friendly guide with all the festive events and activities taking place.

Town centre Christmas decorations were unveiled at Gosford, The Entrance, Wyong, Toukley and Terrigal on December 1 and on Friday, December 10, a giant present photo installation opens at The Entrance.

Each Friday-Wednesday until December 24, a giant Santa chair and Christmas wonderland for DIY family photos will be available at the Gallery Container, Toukley, between 9am and 4pm.

From 9am-1pm on December 20, 21 and 22, photos with Santa will be available at the gallery container; pets welcome.

On the Village Green at Toukley, there will be Christmas Craft at various times throughout December and from 5.30pm-8.30pm on December 5 it will be Tinsel Time.

Wyong Community Carols with fireworks will take place from 5.30pm-9pm on Saturday, December 6, weather permitting, at Wyong High School.

Christmas Eve Carols at Kibble Park, Gosford, and Carols in the Park at Memorial Park, The Entrance, will be held on December 24. Explore the full program and plan your Central Coast Christmas adventure at lovecentralcoast.com

Decorations have gone up in major town centres

NEWS IN BRIEF

Lottery

win

An Ourimbah couple nailed a $100,000 win in the Lucky Lotteries draw on Friday, December 5.

When an official from The Lott confirmed their prize, the winning pair shared moments of stunned silence, confessing they couldn’t find the words to share how much the windfall meant.

The winning entry of two consecutive numbers was bought at Ourimbah Newsagency, 37 Pacific Hwy, Ourimbah.

Traffic changes

There will be changed overnight traffic conditions on Wyong Rd between Berkeley Rd at Glenning Valley and Mingara Dr at Berkeley Vale for maintenance work from Thursday, December 11. Work will be carried out from 7pm-5am and is expected to be completed in two nights, weather permitting.

Traffic control, single lane closures, alternating stop/slow and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place.

Planning panel meets to consider Maccas plan

Members of Central Coast Local Planning Panel will meet in person – for only the second time in five years since it has been operating – to discuss the controversial proposal for a McDonald’s restaurant at Toukley.

Plans to establish McDonald’s on the corner of Evans Rd and Main Rd fired up the community and there has been more than 400 submissions in opposition registered with Central Coast Council, which meant the DA moved to the Local Planning Panel for deliberation.

The Local Planning Panel meeting at 12 noon on Friday, December 12, will also be livestreamed on Council’s YouTube channel, and is open to the public who will have an opportunity to speak.

Administrators who created a Facebook page, Maccas Toukley Wrong Location, to oppose the development are urging those who made submissions to attend the meeting.

They say the development would be located at Toukley’s busiest intersection and have concerns about traffic congestion and safety for nearby school children,

pedestrians and local residents, noise from a 24/7 operation, air quality impacts from cooking fumes and vehicle emissions, anti-social behaviour and loitering.

A recent community protest on November 23 staged at the site of the proposed development on the corner of Evans Rd and Main Rd attracted hundreds of residents including Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris who voiced his opposition to the plan.

“This is absolutely the wrong spot,” he said.

“Traffic on the already congested Main Rd intersection,

a school across the road and new preschool opening 50m away – that’s even before we talk about destroying the East Toukley vibe created by some amazing small business owners.”

A McDonald’s spokesperson said the proposal represented an $8.6M investment in the area and would create 100 new jobs.

Central Coast Council staff have recommended approval for the two-storey fast food outlet in a report to the Planning Panel.

The development application meets most of the Council’s development guidelines.

&

A list of seven variations from the Central Coast Development Control Plan include three parking variations, reduced ceiling height, limited outdoor spaces and landscaping.

But overall, Council says the proposal is consistent with the objectives of the E1 Local Centre zone for these reasons: it is a type of retail premises which will serve the needs of people who live in, work in and visit the area; it will generate employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth; it is within an accessible location and near multiple bus stops; it is compatible with the commercial character; it will

not impact on the amenity of residences; and it will not result in conflicts between existing land uses.

“While an extensive number of submissions have been received, as previously considered in the report, a number of the issues raised in the submissions are not a planning consideration or have been considered to be satisfactorily addressed and will be appropriately managed during the operation of the business so as to not have an adverse impact on the surrounding area,” the report says.

An artist’s impression of the proposed McDonald’s at Toukley

Fight to save iconic amusement park

Central Coast Councillor

Rachel Stanton is fighting to save the much-loved amusement park at The Entrance, after it emerged that a new Plan of Management is likely to prohibit permanent structures in Memorial Park — effectively forcing the longstanding ferris wheel, carousel and other rides to leave the site.

Memorial Park at The Entrance is situated on Crown Land and managed by Central Coast Council.

As part of a new Plan of Management, the Crown Lands Office plans to restrict carnival and showground operations with a land classification which limits permanent structures, but an alternative “General Community Use” classification would allow the amusement park to remain permanently in its historic waterfront location.

Cr Stanton said the amusement park is a key pillar

of The Entrance town and provides broader economic and social benefits.

“The Entrance Amusement Park is more than just rides — it’s a tradition that has brought joy to generations of local families and drawn people from across the Central Coast and beyond,” she said.

“Attractions like these serve an important purpose.

“They enliven the local area,

drive foot traffic to surrounding businesses, and help to create much needed recreational opportunities.

“Losing them would be a great loss to The Entrance.

“With regular events and festivals in Memorial Park, the amusement park enhances The Entrance’s popularity as a tourist attraction which encourages people and business to the area.”

Cr Stanton has been working closely with the ride operators, including ferris wheel owner Brenton Pavier and carousel owner Johanna Haas, to advocate for a solution.

Mr Pavier said the ferris wheel is a fan favourite and lights up the entire town at every event held in the park.

“We were even featured on the new Central Coast

Monopoly boardgame which shows how iconic it is,” he said.

“These rides are simply too big and too expensive to truck in and set up every weekend.

“Without permanent approval our business is at risk.

“Cr Stanton has been a fierce advocate for us during this uncertain time and we’re incredibly grateful.”

Carousel owner Johanna Haas said the potential loss would end almost a century of history.

“Our carousel has been spinning at The Entrance since the 1930s and being over 150 years old, it’s classified by the National Trust as one of the oldest operating carousels in Australia,” she said.

“Every weekend we see parents bring the next generation to share the same magic they experienced as kids.

“It’s not practical to bring in a heritage-listed carousel to the park every few days.

Social media ban for under-16s begins

A world-first social media ban for under-16s comes into force across Australia this week, a move expected to affect around 60,000 children and teenagers on the Central Coast and their families.

The new federal laws place the responsibility squarely on major platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and YouTube, to verify users’ ages and remove under-16 accounts.

Companies that fail to comply face significant penalties.

Local parents told Coast Community News they are “overwhelmingly relieved” that the onus has finally shifted from families to the tech giants themselves.

Many say the change removes years of pressure to battle addictive apps and enforce age rules that platforms have rarely upheld.

One Kincumber mother

described the reform as “a breath of fresh air,” adding that social media companies had “profited handsomely from young people without taking responsibility for the harms”.

Others echoed concerns about bullying, sleeplessness, attention issues and exposure to inappropriate content, saying the ban offers a longoverdue circuit-breaker.

The Federal Government argues that early and unregulated access to social

media has contributed to declining mental health outcomes among teens.

The legislation was supported by all major parties in the Federal Parliament, though it will be challenged in the courts. By delaying the age of entry, the Government hopes more children will spend time on offline activities, sports, study and face-to-face friendships.

Some critics, however, say the reforms may push some

teens toward unregulated platforms or fake accounts, warning that education and digital literacy still matter.

For now, today marks a significant shift in Australia’s approach to online safety.

And on the Central Coast, where tens of thousands of families are navigating the digital world together, many say the law offers something rare, a sense of support from the system, not just stern advice to parents.

“If we’re forced to leave, this piece of living history will be lost forever.

“My family sincerely thanks Councillor Stanton for fighting so hard to keep us here.”

At Council’s meeting on December 9, Cr Stanton’s motion calling on the Crown Lands Office to recognise the significant community benefit provided by the longstanding amusements and to retain the amusement park under a suitable classification was successful.

“The community has already shown overwhelming support for the amusement park and I’m hopeful Crown Lands will listen,” she said.

“I have launched a petition so everyone can have their say.

“If you love the rides at The Entrance, please sign and share it widely.”

You can sign the petition, search ‘The Entrance” at www. ipetitions.com

Optus challenges council over Killcare tower as locals question planning process

A decade-long battle over mobile coverage on the Bouddi peninsula has returned to the NSW Land and Environment Court, with Optus Mobile Pty Ltd challenging Central Coast Council’s refusal to support a telecommunications tower development proposal at Killcare.

For more than 10 years, CCN has reported on persistent mobile blackspots across Killcare, Hardys Bay, Wagstaffe and Pretty Beach, with many residents experiencing unreliable reception, dropped calls and, in some locations, no access to 000 at all.

Locals have long warned that no access to emergency services, such as ambulance GPS access, remains a major risk in the bushfire-prone area.

Optus is seeking to overturn Council’s decision not to recommend its tower be constructed on Council-owned land at the Killcare water reservoir, arguing that the planning assessment process has been clouded by local government’s evaluation of the development application.

Around 140 residents attended last week’s on-site court hearing, the second held at the location within a year.

The session unfolded beneath trees thick with cicadas, making it difficult for the public to hear proceedings.

Four people spoke against the tower, citing broad concerns about mobile towers and electrosmog, visual amenity and tree removal, with a traditional custodian reminding the commissioner that the

whole area is rich in cultural significance.

One frustrated attendee was removed after calling out that a speaker was misrepresenting the community.

Questions were also raised about procedural fairness after at least two people who said

they had registered to speak were left off the list.

Commissioner Porter allowed one additional speaker to present a submission in favour of the tower, citing the peninsula’s dire emergency service access and questioned if a bushfire such as the one at Koolewong on December 6

would leave many people in a dangerous position.

The local progress association has formally backed the tower.

President Mike Alsop urged the Commissioner to disregard objections over visual amenity and electromagnetic radiation, saying the overwhelming membership view prioritised safety and reliable coverage.

Resident and mental health professor Dr Liz Hickey said the continued lack of connectivity was causing anxiety by limiting access to telehealth and preventing many local professionals from working productively from home.

The case has also exposed broader concerns about whether the planning system is equipped to deliver essential telecommunications infrastructure.

A spokesperson for Optus said: “It is important to recognise that while Optus and the majority of local residents want improved mobile services in the area, lengthy planning and assessment processes outside of our control can significantly delay critical infrastructure projects, ultimately impacting the very communities we’re trying to serve.”

CCN understands the Federal Communications Minister has powers to intervene, but is reluctant to override state and local processes.

With hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on legal proceedings rather than infrastructure, locals say the system is overdue for reform.

A court decision is expected in the coming months.

Social Media access will be delayed for teens under 16 in Australia.

Photo wikicommons

Locals gathered for the second time in 2025 for a court hearing Photo: CCN

Cr Rachel Stanton with carousel owner Johanna Haas and Brenton Pavier

Ingenia Lifestyle Archer’s Run

Airport’s invaluable role in firefighting

Community leaders have reinforced the valuable role played in the community by Warnervale in the wake of Koolewong’s tragic fires on December 6.

Central Coast Aero Club President, Andrew Smiththe RFS supplemented the airport’s permanently based helicopter with an additional aircraft, supported by fuel tankers and Fire Brigade units on-site throughout the day.

“These two helicopters and their crews worked tirelessly to contain the Koolewong fire,” he said.

“Tragically, many homes were lost—but without aerial support, the outcome would have been far worse.

“Warnervale Airport’s role in emergency response cannot be overstated.

“It is the only facility on the Coast capable of accommodating both rotary and fixed-wing firefighting assets, as well as aeromedical transfer flights.

“Its strategic importance ensures fast, safe, and efficient access for emergency services

when lives and homes are at risk.

“Emergency services were able to refuel at Warnervale in quick succession, rather than to Sydney or Newcastle, which allowed for a faster turnaround time to fight these fires.

“The CCAC has worked alongside the RFS during the Summer months for many years at Warnervale – sharing resources when required.

“We are very happy to see the airport being utilised in this manner.

“The Council has an area perfectly suited to the operation of these aviation assets and all the support they need in a secure environment.”

Mr Smith said the fire served as a stark reminder of the critical importance of adequately resourced emergency services in the region, with our unique geography creating significant challenges for ground-based firefighting units.

“Aerial firefighting resources have become indispensable in

overcoming these obstacles, enabling rapid response and containment of fire fronts,” he said.

The airport site includes two large tanks for water and retardant storage, as well as fuel, and has supported RFS aerial bombers – both rotary and fixed-wing – for training and operational purposes.

During Summer, the RFS stations a specialised Bell 214B helicopter at Warnervale 24/7.

Derived from the iconic

Vietnam War “Huey,” this aircraft is the largest and most powerful single-engine twinblade helicopter ever manufactured, capable of lifting up to 3,000 kg and operating for 3.3 hours without refueling.

These helicopters can draw water from lakes, rivers, swimming pools, or the ocean using a snorkel system, allowing them to remain close to fire zones.

Warnervale Airport provides the necessary space for fuel tankers and support vehicles to operate safely, and it is the only location on the Coast where fixed-wing RFS bombers can land and reload with water and retardant.

With a cruise speed of 240 km/h, the Bell 214B can reach most parts of the Central Coast within 5–10 minutes of takeoff.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the region’s landscape makes aerial firefighting essential.

“Warnervale Airport is vital for getting emergency aircraft into the air within minutes, and I want to thank the firebombing crews for their courageous

work protecting our community during the tragic Koolewong bushfire,” he said.

“The Central Coast Airport Master Plan supports moving the Rural Fire Service and other emergency services onto the airport site, improving coordination and ensuring Warnervale Airport remains a key base during emergencies.”

Deputy Mayor John Mouland said facilities like Warnervale Airport would continue to be an indispensable part of the emergency management framework as the region faces more frequent and complex natural hazards.

“The airport provides the only location on the Coast that can safely accommodate both rotary and fixed-wing firefighting and other emergency aircraft,” he said.

“Its availability during critical incidents ensures emergency services can operate efficiently, safely, and without delay.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch both agreed that the fire reinforced the necessity to retain a regional airport on the Central Coast.

From left: Deputy Major John Mouland, helicopter pilot Justin and Andrew Smith discuss the fire-fighting effort

NEWS IN BRIEF

Waste levy waived

The waste levy has been waived for the Central Coast LGA, with residents impacted by bushfires able to dispose of damaged items at landfill sites for free until April 30, 2026.

The exemption applies to bushfire-related waste on public and private land, including damaged building materials, furniture, carpet, fallen trees, garden debris and other items.

Free legal aid

Legal Aid NSW is urging anyone impacted by the bushfires to seek free legal help early.

Drop into a Community Recovery Hub being established by the NSW Reconstruction Authority for free legal help from 1-5pm on Friday, December 12, at the Peninsula Community Centre, 98 McMasters Rd, Woy Woy; call the Legal Aid NSW Disaster Response Legal Service on 1800 801 529 to make an appointment or visit the DRLS website.

Appeals launched to help victims

Family members and friends of some of the victims of the Koolewong fires have started gofundme appeals to help them get back on their feet.

One of them is Shelley Murcott, long-time friend of Brooke (surname withheld), whose home in Glenrock Pde was razed.

“Brooke was out and about on Saturday when someone mentioned there were fires at Koolewong, so she raced back home,” Ms Murcott said.

“She raced up the 96 steps to her home, with fire on either side of her and firefighters urging her to get out, but she was determined to save her animals.

“She managed to rescue her beloved pig Pumba, but he ran off once outside, so she grabbed her dog and drove off with just the clothes on her back.”

Ms Murcott said Brooke made it to a friend’s place, distraught over her missing pig.

“Thankfully she received a message from some neighbours saying there was a pig on their veranda, so she got

Pumba back and has since taken him to a sanctuary for now,” she said.

“I think she is still in shock but she’s doing what she has to do before she looks at rebuilding.

She wasn’t able to salvage anything from her home but the animals – I think it is the personal items she is grieving the most.”

Ms Murcott said Brooke had touched countless lives through her volunteer work with Marine Rescue and her support for Camp Quality programs.

To donate search ‘Brooke’ at

www.gofundme.com

Another gofundme has been established for Hannah, a single mother of two teenage daughters.

The family and their pets were evacuated with only moments to spare and are now trying to process the enormity of what has happened.

You can donate by searching ‘Help a mum’ at www. gofundme.com

Siew Lee has faced many battles if the past 10 years, including thyroid cancer and has learnt to be brave.

She was out in the city at the time of the fire, but one of her cats managed to escape and is currently receiving vet treatment but could still be lost due to an initial high fever and extensive burns.

Her other two cats remain missing

To donate, search ‘Siew Lee’ at www.gofundme.com

Elyse, her boyfriend, her mother, her one-year-old son and their greyhound luckily escaped the flames but have lost their home and every belonging inside it.

“Elyse has lost her house, furniture, clothing, baby essentials, important documents, and precious personal items that can never be replaced,” a family member, who started the gofundme appeal, said.

“She is now facing the painful and overwhelming task of rebuilding her life while caring for her little boy and supporting her family through this traumatic experience.”

Donate by searching “Help Elyse rebuild’ at www. gofundme.com

Nothing is left of Elyse’s family home Photo: Elyse Guevara-Rattray; Brooke was reunited with her pet pig Pumba after the fires

KOOLEWONG FIRES

Caring community rallies ’round

Businesses and community organisations sprang into action as the drama unfolded on Saturday, with an evacuation centre quickly established at Gosford RSL.

Rotary Brisbane Water quickly mobilised a coordinated community response to support firefighters and residents.

Joining forces with Gosford Catering Captain Ben Bird and his team, Lions of Woy Woy Peninsula, CWA Umina Beach and IGA Umina Beach, they prepared and delivered meals to Rural Fire Service crews. When the club contacted the owner of IGA Umina Beach asking if they had sufficient stocks of certain foods to the value of $250 available for immediate collection, the response was an instant yes with IGA matching the $250 contribution.

Business NSW and the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce have expressed their deepest sympathies to residents affected by the fire and commended the tireless efforts of emergency services in responding to the disaster.

“Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by these devastating fires,” Business NSW Regional Director Scott Goold said.

Volunteers then packed and prepared the food supplies for firefighters from Kariong RFS, who were joined by other brigades including some from Sydney, all operating out of the Kariong base.

Club members Mark and Margaret Simpson and Jayne Mote dedicated many hours at the Kariong base alongside

Tony Griffith from Lions of Woy Woy Peninsula and Lyn Griffiths from CWA Umina Beach.

Rotary Brisbane Water Past President Mitchell Gordon said the club stands ready to provide additional support as needs emerge throughout the recovery period.

Rotary Australia World Community Service has

approached the club with an offer of multiple $500 relief cards for victims who have lost homes in the Koolewong area.

The club is now exploring collaboration with Umina Rotary Club, Lions and other local groups to verify recipients and ensure assistance reaches those most severely affected.

GIVIT has been identified as

the official donation partner for bushfire recovery: www.givit. org.au

Angel Irwin from Golden Mane Hair Salon in West St, Umina Beach, immediatley offered her business as a drop off point for good quality clothes for men, women and children who lost everything.

“With more than a dozen homes lost to the fires on Saturday, there are many families still in shock who have lost everything,” she said.

“As a way to help, I am offering my place of business as a drop off point for those Koolewong families who literally have nothing.

“All donations can be delivered to Golden Mane Hair Salon at 206 West St, Umina Beach.

Business community offers support

“The strength and resilience shown by the Koolewong community is inspiring, and we commend the extraordinary efforts of emergency services.

“Business NSW is committed to ensuring that affected businesses receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.”

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce President Matthew Wales said the tragedy has

touched every corner of the community.

“While we rally to support families who have lost their homes, we also want to remind self-employed residents and local business owners that help is available,” he said.

“Together, we will rebuild stronger.”

Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding

Arrangements (DRFA) help available includes: concessional loans up to $130,000 for small businesses and primary producers to assist with recovery and rebuilding; free replacement of licences and business documents lost or damaged during the disaster; and personalised support through the Service NSW Business

Bureau for grants, financial advice, and recovery planning.

For details and eligibility, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit Service NSW Disaster Assistance.

Residents impacted by the fires can access emergency accommodation, essential items, and grants for uninsured households.

Mental health support is

Ms Irwin grew up on the Woy Woy Peninsula and like many others, was shocked and heartbroken when watching the images of homes burnt to the ground.

She has run her business for the past five years at Umina Beach, where she employs six local young women who are all willing to give a hand to assist the Koolewong families.

Peninsula Chamber President Matthew Wales is encouraging other local businesses to follow her example by providing clothing donations.

“This is what local businesses do well,” he said.

“We support our local community in both the good and bad times.”

“At this difficult time for those families, both my staff and I would encourage Peninsula residents to help out and rally round our community.”

available via NSW Mental Health Line (1800 011 511) and Lifeline (13 11 14).

Businesses and individuals wishing to assist those affected are encouraged to donate through the official disaster relief partner www.givit.org.au Both households and businesses should review their insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for future events.

Residents in shock after Koolewong fire claims 16 homes

From page 1

A containment declaration confirmed the fire was no longer directly impacting on properties, but smouldering material and hot spots could still remain, she said.

A Natural Disaster declaration was issued on Sunday morning, unlocking a range of State and Federal Government support measures for affected residents, local businesses and Central Coast Council.

NSW Minister for the Central Coast David Harris made the announcement at midday, confirming that those whose homes have been damaged may be eligible for immediate financial assistance, as well as support for clean-up, rebuilding and long-term recovery.

The assistance available to impacted communities includes: support for eligible residents to meet immediate needs such as emergency accommodation and essential items; grants for low-income,

uninsured residents to replace essential household items lost in the fires and maintain a basic standard of living; grants for low-income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to make their homes safe and habitable; and assistance for Central Coast Council to remove debris and restore essential public infrastructure.

Community members who have been impacted are encouraged to contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit service.nsw.gov.au for detailed information.

The most effective way to support those affected is through GIVIT, the official disaster relief partner.

A dedicated Koolewong donation portal has been set up.

Brisbane Water Police District has established Strike Force Inola, supported by the State Crime Command’s Arson Squad, Forensic Evidence Technical Support Command,

and specialists from the NSW RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW, to investigate the cause and origin of the fire on behalf of the State Coroner.

As at Wednesday, December 10, investigators had determined that while the fire is likely to have originated in bushland on Nimbin Ave, the cause remains undetermined at this stage.

Forensic examinations at the point of origin have not identified any evidence suggesting the use of ignitable liquids or a deliberate act.

Examinations also indicate the likely cause of a fire near Koolewong Railway Station was a spot fire from the original fire in bushland on Nimbin Ave. Investigators continue to collect and review CCTV footage and recordings, and conduct inquiries with affected homeowners and witnesses.

As part of those inquiries, a secure community portal has been established for members of the public to upload any relevant footage.

If you have footage that may assist, please upload it directly

via the Evidence Request portal: nswpf.au.evidence.com/ axon/community-request/ public/koolewongbushfire (or scan the QR code below)

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna acknowledged the heroic efforts of emergency service personnel and volunteers who “went above and beyond during an extraordinarily difficult time”.

In a Mayoral Minute submitted to the December 9 Council meeting he extended sincere thanks to Gosford RSL Club for establishing an emergency evacuation centre and supporting those in crisis.

“I am deeply grateful to the many Central Coast residents who have offered donations and practical assistance; your generosity and community spirit reflect the very best of our region,” Cr McKinna said.

“I also appreciate the support of NSW Premier Chris Minns, who visited our region on Sunday to express his concern

and solidarity with the community.

“We are now entering the recovery phase, with preparations underway for handover to the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

“Council will work closely with residents who have lost homes and other structures to ensure rebuilding and demolition processes are as streamlined as possible.”

Cr McKinna warned that with Summer only just beginning, the region may be facing a challenging bushfire season and encouraged all residents in fire-prone areas to ensure their bush fire survival plan is up to date.

Community volunteers pack supplies for delivery to firefighters and residents; IGA was quick to offer support

Terry Collins

Homes ablaze at Koolewong

Coast Connect

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Devastating Koolewong fires

On Saturday 6 December 2025 a devastating bushfire swept through Koolewong, Phegans Bay and Woy Woy Bay. The blaze was fuelled by extremely hot and windy conditions, spreading with alarming speed and burning more than 129 hectares. Tragically, over 16 homes were destroyed, with many others damaged.

I acknowledge the heroic efforts of our emergency services personnel and volunteers who went above and beyond during an extraordinarily difficult time. I also extend our sincere thanks to Gosford RSL Club for establishing an evacuation centre and supporting those in crisis.

And I appreciate the support of NSW Premier Chris Minns, who visited our region to express his concern and solidarity with our community.

The Central Coast has now received a natural disaster declaration. This means residents whose homes have been destroyed or damaged may be eligible for immediate financial assistance, as well as support for clean-up, rebuilding and recovery.

We’re now entering the recovery phase, with preparations underway for handover to the NSW Reconstruction Authority. Council’s website and Facebook page will continue to provide updates and links to relevant agencies.

With summer only just beginning, we may be facing a challenging bushfire season. I encourage all residents in fire prone areas to ensure their bushfire survival plan is up to date. The NSW Rural Fire Service website provides helpful resources and a free guide to assist with planning.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna

The next Council meeting will be held at Wyong from 6.30pm on 27 January 2026. Search ‘council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s on

Get festive with Christmas on the Coast!

Discover free holiday fun: twinkling tree lightings, Christmas markets, festive dining and meet Santa. Vote for your favourite festive shop window display created by local businesses. Enjoy the holidays with a huge range of local festivities!

Check out the full program of events at lovecentralcoast.com/christmas-onthe-coast

Creating a greener, cooler Central Coast

Every year we plant street trees to create greener, cooler suburbs and make our communities better places to live and work. This year, we’re investing an additional $150,000 focused on the Peninsula – an area with some of the lowest canopy cover and highest urban heat. To learn more, search ‘street tree planting’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Make memories and explore the region this summer

Discover family-friendly fun across the Coast! Play at your local park or playspace, cool off at one of our pools or patrolled beaches, enjoy a picnic with BBQ facilities on offer or explore a nearby lookout or reserve.

Plan your next adventure, search ‘recreation’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Save the date and plan your activities:

NYE (Wednesday 31 Dec at The Entrance and Gosford) with fireworks displays, live music and roving entertainment. Check out the program at lovecentralcoast.com/newyearseve

Summer school holiday program with activities for all ages and interests. From 22 Dec. Discover the range of activities at lovecentralcoast.com/ news/summer-school-holiday-fun

Reminder to keep beach safety front of mind

Did you that that 100% of all coastal drownings last summer were outside of patrol times or areas and 73% were less than 1km from a surf life saving service? Be safe this summer. Drive the extra five minutes to a patrolled beach, and always swim between the flags.

Explore our patrolled beaches, search ‘beach safety’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What makes you proud to live on the Coast?

We’re building the Central Coast’s Place Brand Strategy – and we want your voice in it. What do you love about your neighbourhood? What makes you proud? What should the Coast be known for? Let us know!

Fill out the survey, search ‘place brand strategy’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com

Council offices will be closed from 24 December 2025, returning 5 January 2026. For full details, search ‘Christmas closure’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Lawrie McKinna

Warnervale airport rezoning will go ahead

Central Coast Council will go ahead with Action 7 in its Airport Masterplan to “protect environmentally sensitive lands and support the ongoing operations of the airport”.

A staff report to councillors at the said legal advice had suggested they could avoid the rezoning pathway, and to simply rely on the masterplan as sufficient pathway planning. But then the staff had meetings with State planning department officials and now the rezoning will go ahead.

Action 7 in the masterplan to rezone the land will go ahead in parallel with Action 4 which will see Council submit a Biodiversity Certification Assessment Report (BCAR) on the area to the State Government this month for approval.

The airport is surrounded by wetland.

The masterplan states that an environmental study highlighted the need for ecological offsetting and played a significant role in shaping the priority actions for the project.

The councillors discussed the matter at the Economic Development Committee meeting on December 2. They asked how much the legal advice had cost and why Council had asked for it.

The staff said the advice was for a lot of technical advice but

couldn’t advise how much it cost.

Staff were also asked about the four secret reports outlining Warnervale airport financial assumptions for the masterplan which had been the subject of a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) request.

Had the four reports now been made public?

Council staff said that was a question for Governance and the question was not answered any further.

The Information and Privacy Commission recently revealed that Council had asked for an extension of time to fulfil the GIPA request to check with external sources but then did not actually talk to any external sources before telling the applicant it still would not release the four reports.

But that information was not shared with the councillors at the committee meeting.

Staff were asked if Council was going to have to continue to pay to keep lopping the tops off trees on land it did not own near the airport.

Staff replied that yes, even though Council did not own the land, it was Council that wanted

to keep the trees lopped for safety reasons – to keep the Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) defined.

Before the meeting, some councillors had received a press release from the Community Environment Network (CEN) which said not rezoning was not an option, it would be sidestepping due processes.

“To see a local government seeking to bypass a lawful requirement is, frankly, the worst example of procedural avoidance,” CEN Chair Gary Chestnut said.

“Sound governance requires commitment to legislative integrity and community engagement, not strategies designed to circumvent them.” Council is on track with all 14 Actions in the masterplan.

Case of four secret airport documents continues

Central Coast Council has once again been caught out in relation to four secret documents outlining financial assumptions for the Central Coast Airport masterplan business case.

In the latest decision by the Information and Privacy Commission (IPC), Council has been told – yet again – to improve its training of staff on GIPA (Government Information Public Access) requests.

In the latest development, Council had told an applicant who had asked for the release

of four documents about airport cost assumptions that it needed extra time to discuss the request with third parties.

The extra time was taken –but the third party consultations never took place.

The IPC said Council had acknowledged the error and would apologise to the applicant.

This comes after Council originally failed to disclose that the documents even existed, after the applicant initiated the original GIPA application.

The applicant said that only

after IPC intervention did Council finally admit the documents ‘ought to have been captured and considered as part of (Council’s) decision’.

“Nor has Council ever explained why they didn’t mention or consider these documents in their original decision despite admitting they ought to have,” the applicant said.

“For these reasons, it is difficult to be confident that Council is acting in good faith with respect to this GIPA application, and its stated

reasons for refusing access should therefore be taken with a pinch of salt.

“I will therefore be considering my options under external review.”

The applicant had asked for “revenue and cost projections” Council supplied to the consultants writing up the airport business case.

These included a breakdown of costs, the sources, assumptions, and calculations supporting the numbers.

Council still will not release the documents, saying it would

undermine “competitive neutrality”, contains costing information on private land holdings and could unduly influence the market.

It said the market analysis included business names and prospective concepts and ideas and related investment information that would reasonably diminish the commercial values of those businesses if released publicly as it would make their proprietary business information known to competitors.

“This could lead to direct financial harm for the businesses, such as loss of investment opportunities, decreased property values, or weakened negotiating positions,” Council said in its decision.

In July, councillors agreed to employ two extra staff to improve its GIPA team. At the time Council said two GIPA officers had considered and completed decisions on 92 formal GIPA applications, and 957 informal GIPA applications so far this calendar year.

Protected Blue Groper killed at Terrigal Haven

The killing of a Blue Groper recently at Terrigal Haven has sparked calls for better educational signage and the launch of a community petition calling for the establishment of a marine reserve at Toowoon Bay.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is investigating the death of the protected fish after a spear fisher was seen dragging it up the boat ramp at the Haven on Sunday, November 30.

Local resident Steve Farthing witnessed the incident and said other bystanders immediately confronted the man.

“He looked quite proud coming out with the fish and didn’t realise what he’d done,” Mr Farthing said.

“[Other people] were telling him what he’d done was wrong.”

Mr Farthing photographed the fish on the boat ramp before the man’s demeanour changed.

“He appeared to panic and went and dumped the fish in the carpark and took off down the boardwalk,” he said.

“He looked quite shocked by it all.”

The man later returned to speak with NSW Fisheries officers, who seized both the dead fish and his fishing gear.

A DPIRD spokesperson said the circumstances surrounding the Groper’s death remain under investigation.

Blue Gropers have been NSW’s state fish since 1996 and are now fully protected from all forms of fishing, including spearfishing and line fishing.

Spearfishing for the species has been banned since 1969 due to their friendly, inquisitive nature making them easy targets.

A complete prohibition on taking Blue Gropers by any method was introduced in March 2024 following community outrage over illegal killings in Sydney and Jervis Bay.

The ban was extended for a further three years from March 2025 to enable continued research and monitoring of the species, particularly regarding climate change impacts.

Penalties for taking a Blue Groper include a $500 on-thespot fine, with maximum courtimposed penalties of $22,000 or six months imprisonment for a first offence.

The incident has prompted fresh calls for improved signage at Terrigal Haven to educate fishers and the public about the area’s protected marine life.

Blue Gropers are long-lived fish that can grow up to 1m in length and 15kgs.

They are known for establishing territories on rocky reefs and becoming familiar with regular divers and swimmers.

The incident has also prompted an e-petition on the Legislative Assembly website calling for a marine reserve to be established at Toowoon Bay.

“After the killing of the blue groper at Terrigal we were determined to find a way to make them safer,”

spokesperson Nicole Conroy said.

“We figured the Haven with its strong fishing history may not be the best option, but Toowoon Bay, slightly north, would be wonderful as a marine reserve.

“Toowoon Bay is full of young fish, Blue Gropers and turtles

that use the bay to rest and grow

“I work in Gosford public hospital ICU and we all come down each morning to swim with the turtles and de-stress after work, the thought that they aren’t safe hurts my soul.

“The Central Coast has so many kilometres of beautiful coastline — we’re simply asking that this one small, sheltered bay be kept safe for future generations.

Ms Conroy said she recently saw a spearfisher walk past a group of young children playing in the shallows.

“It felt a bit like having an armed hunter walk through a playground,” she said.

“Families deserve to feel safe at the beach.”

The e-petition can be accessed by searching ‘marine reserve” at www.parliament. nsw.gov.au/la/pages/ epetitions-list.aspx

The death of a protected Blue Groper at Terrigal Haven Photo: Steve Farling

Merilyn Vale

Central Coast Airport

IN BRIEF Anti-scams forum a success

More than 200 people attended the recent third Robertson Anti-Scams Forum with the new Federal Minister for Financial Services, Daniel Mulino, held at the Central Coast Leagues Club on December 2.

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid, who hosted the forum, said the Minister spoke about how the Government is tackling scams and the measures that can be used to detect and avoid scams in all their forms.

“Many people appreciate the opportunity to receive information directly from the Minister for Financial Services about measures that can be implemented to identify and avoid scams,” he said.

“The forum is also an opportunity to link people to the appropriate reporting authorities.

“It has never been more

Deb named our latest community champion

Deb Christian has been named the latest Central Coast Community Champion by Mayor Lawrie McKinna.

The initiative was introduced by the Mayor shortly after he was elected to shine a light on those who dedicate themselves to making the Central Coast a better place.

“These are truly exceptional people in our community, the quiet achievers whose actions speak louder than words,” Cr McKinna said.

Ms Christian was nominated for her voluntary support of women doing residential programs at The Glen.

She became involved with the rehabilitation centre in Yarramalong after her daughter completed the program there.

She said the greatest gift was having her daughter home, safe, healthy, and thriving.

But that experience ignited a deep connection to The Glen and its mission to empower women to be leaders in their own lives.

is a trusted confidante, and a fierce advocate who stands beside people.

Her unwavering support and warmth have earned her the

The Glen’s values include honesty, respect, love, transparency, accountability and that actions are louder than words.

honours people who, through exceptional effort and commitment, make a difference to the lives of others,” Cr MCKinna said.

locals each making a lasting difference through their commitment, compassion, and hard work; Alison Heathcote, Sheridyn Fisher, Kylie Nicholson and Donald McMurray; Catherine Deblaere, Nicole Jackson and Lauren McDonnell; Matthew Hindson, Kerry Langdon-Down and Adam Yager; Lachlan Hobman and Elijah Rea; Paula Hardwick, Billy Isaacs, Carmen Cooper and Jane Hillyard; Roslyn Greener, Marion Dreyer, Saia Latu, and now Deb Christian.

“This initiative is about gratitude,” Cr McKinna said.

“It’s about saying thank you to those who give so much of themselves to others and to the community we all share.

“Our Community Champions embody the very best of the Coast, and I’m proud to honour them.

“If you know someone who deserves to be recognised, I invite you to share their story with me at themayor@

Deb Christian with Mayor Lawrie McKinna

We don’t really need council

The ever-escalating rates (imposed) by Central Coast Council are now affecting our home budget in the area of purchasing food.

The CEO is on $500,000 per annum and the new councillors have just given themselves a raise – they have only just begun their tenure.

I was discussing the costs with my wife and she said “we don’t need them”.

I laughed at the prospect but she was right.

The potholed, skinny roads are unchanged; the nonexistent kerb and gutters now being repaired by myself with old cement; and the future stormwater pipes are a nonevent.

We are paying for nothing, so we may as well have no Central Coast Council.

FORUM

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

I think we will need a Food Stamps program … if the Council keeps to its track record.

Rates here have jumped another $50.

Email, Dec 4 John Strang, Woy Woy

E-bikes a continuing problem

At about 5pm on November 24, near The Entrance Surf Life Saving Club, I was nearly struck again by two riders using e-bikes on the footpath.

There was no warning, no

bell, no notice — I had to jump back to save myself and my dog.

This was not an isolated incident.

It is happening regularly, and it is only luck that has prevented tragedy so far.

This is not a nuisance; it is a fatal epidemic.

Children are riding petrolpowered and high-speed electric bikes — unregistered, uninsured, and unlicensed — often without helmets, lights, or brakes.

Riders are texting while riding, weaving through traffic, ignoring road rules, and treating footpaths like racetracks.

These are not accidents — they are the predictable result of zero enforcement, zero deterrence, and a culture of impunity.

Parents are negligent — either by purchasing these vehicles or turning a blind eye to the trouble they cause.

They must also be held accountable, with fines and penalties that make it clear this behaviour will not be tolerated.

With Christmas approaching, The Entrance and surrounding areas will be crowded with families, children, and tourists.

Without immediate action, we are staring down a perfect storm of chaos, injury, and death.

What will it take for authorities to act — a toddler killed on a footpath, a grieving family on the front page?

Government and Council are sitting on their hands.

The NSW Government talks of

Public information can make a difference

Brisbane Water Police are seeking information to locate people who have domestic violence related warrants issued by the Court.

“Our Police are out making inquiries to locate them and we don’t stop until they are placed before the Court, but information from the public can be that difference that helps us locate these people,” a spokesperson said.

Parents are being warned to do their research and buy only legal e-bikes for their children this Christmas, as police crack down on modified bikes and dangerous riding.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, has urged people to be aware of what type of e-bike they are buying and to check the rules to ensure they are purchasing a legal e-bike.

“If you are considering buying an e-bike for Christmas, make sure it complies with NSW law,” he said.

future reforms, but there is no immediate crackdown.

Councils focus on infrastructure but lack enforcement powers.

NSW Police are responsible, yet visible action is virtually non-existent.

There is no public reporting on injuries or deaths linked to illegal e bike use – why?

This is not about demonising kids — it is about saving them, protecting the public, and forcing a system that has failed to wake up before more lives are lost.

Email, Nov 24

Jim Boyd, The Entrance

Inconsistency in decision making

A recent media statement from Central Coast Council says: “We are planting more trees to help reduce heat stress, improve air quality,

and make our suburbs more enjoyable places to live, work and play”.

“This pilot will deliver muchneeded shade and support Council’s liveability and sustainability goals.”

I’m struggling to understand the inconsistency between these statements and the vote last Tuesday endorsing the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure proposal to clear some 1,800ha of vacant environmental land, including thousands of trees.

I don’t expect to always agree with decisions taken by councillors; however, I do think it’s reasonable to expect consistency in decision making.

I’d appreciate a brief explanation.

Email, Nov 24

Kevin Armstrong, Forresters Beach

Man critically injured in hit and run

Police have started an investigation into a suspected hit and run incident at Long Jetty in the early hours of Sunday, December 7.

scene and treated the man aged in his 30s for head injuries while awaiting the Westpac rescue helicopter, which landed at Jubilee Park.

Both Kristy May-Lee OSullivan and Mark Gregory Riddle have two DV warrants each issued by the Court.

Tierney and Steven Mark Evans.

There are three separate warrants for domestic violence related offences for each of the wanted men Clayton Alan

Anyone with information that can assist Police can contact PoliceLink 131 444 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000, nswcrimestoppers.com.au

Emergency services were alerted at about 2.15am that a man had been found unconscious in the middle of the road on a stretch of Toowoon Bay Rd.

NSW Ambulance arrived on

The critically injured man was transported to the landing zone to meet with the Westpac critical care medical team who treated him there for about an hour before he could be stabilised for transport to John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.

Two charged following police chase

arrested and taken to Gosford Police station.

“We have seen more modified bikes and powerful motors fitted.

“Parents must remain vigilant and be aware of how easy it can be to modify the bike.

“Police don’t want someone to make a mistake that costs them their life or causes them serious injury.”

Assistant Commissioner Driver said parents had a responsibility to ensure the bike was not modified and urged parents to make sure their child could ride the bike safely before they went onto the road or footpath.

“We need riders to

“An e-bike is illegal if it has a greater power output than 500 watts, even if it is limited by software.

understand the dangers of riding on one wheel, without a helmet or in the dark with no lights,” he said.

The E-bike rules include: rider must primarily propel the bike with the pedals; motors are intended to assist when riding uphill or into headwind, not as the primary source of propulsion; an electrically power-assisted cycle can only have a maximum power output of 500 watts; the electric motor must cut off when the bicycle reaches 25km/h; the electric motor should not assist the rider when travelling more than 25km/h but does not prevent the rider travelling faster with their own pedalling or going

downhill; and the motor can be used up to 6km/h before the rider must pedal.

Illegal e-bikes cannot be registered in NSW and are therefore unregistered and uninsured motor vehicles.

All riders and passengers must wear approved helmets that are securely fitted and fastened.

Only children under 16 years of age or adults accompanying a child under 16 can ride on a footpath, unless there are signs prohibiting bicycle riding.

Riders need to keep to the left and give way to pedestrians on shared paths or footpaths.

Visit Transport for NSW e-bike website for more information.

Two young men have been charged on multiple offences, including breach of bail, following a police pursuit starting in Woy Woy on December 2.

Brisbane Water Police were patrolling Brisbane Water Dr at about 8pm when a vehicle failed to stop on police instruction, sparking a chase through Woy Woy, Blackwall and Ettalong Beach.

During the pursuit the vehicle collided with a trailer causing minor damage and in Macleay Ave, Woy Woy, and two men and a woman allegedly ran from the vehicle and fled on foot.

A short time later they were

A 21-year-old man was charged with: police pursuit –not stop – drive recklessly; unlicensed for class; not give particulars to owner of damaged property; hinder or resist arrest; and possess prohibited drug (two counts).

A 20-year-old man was charged for breach of bail conditions.

Both men were remanded in custody until their court appearances in the bail court on December 3.

The 20-year-old woman was released without charge. There were no reports of injuries.

Kristy May-Lee OSullivan Clayton Alan Tierney Mark Gregory Riddle Steven Mark Evans

Coastal Twist float headed for mardi gras parade

The Coast’s own Coastal Twist Festival community will take its parade entry It’s Raining They/Them to the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday February 28.

The float flips the classic weather report on its head: LED-lit umbrellas, drifting rainbow clouds and a fullspectrum rainbow rolling through the crowd in a wave of queer exhilaration.

It’s Raining They/Them honours trans and genderdiverse communities while creating a joyful space for connection.

Float co-organiser Leigh Rijff said gender was expansive and personal, welcoming everyone across the spectrum — cis and

trans people, non-binary and gender-diverse folks, and anyone still discovering who they are.

The float invites the crowd into that shared energy where being correctly seen and named is an act of care, not a debate, Rijff said.

“Our Central Coast LGBTQIA+ community is as vibrant as it is diverse, and it deserves a parade entry that celebrates the whole sweep of gender and sexual identities,” Rijff said.

“The float spotlights gender identity in a way that speaks to people’s lived realities and celebrates everyone as they are.

“It centres pronouns as something powerful, not optional.

“Seeing your pronouns lit up on Oxford Street is not a gimmick — it’s a way of saying you are real, you are visible, and you deserve to be recognised.”

Tapping into this year’s Mardi Gras theme ECSTATICA, the float becomes a rallying call: pronouns hold power, gender is expansive and there is ecstatic freedom in showing up as your whole self at Mardi Gras.

Co-organiser Aaron Millerand said for many LGBTQIA+ people on the Central Coast, Mardi Gras was one of the few moments their identities took centre stage beyond day-today Coast life.

Millerand said the project strengthened solidarity across the rainbow through

float-building, creative workshops and costumemaking, centreing trans and gender-diverse people while building community pride.

Marchers include people of diverse genders, sexualities, ages and abilities, with leadership that includes lived experience of cerebral palsy — keeping equity and inclusion at the heart of the story.

“Mardi Gras still matters on the Central Coast because it shows our communities that the story doesn’t stop at the Sydney city limits,” Millerand said.

“When a float from the Coast turns up and proudly centres gender diversity and pronouns, it tells the people watching at

home that we are not just spectators.

“Our lives, our pronouns and our futures belong in the parade too.”

Coastal Twist Festival Creative Director Glitta Supernova said trans and gender-diverse people were being targeted globally, creating division fuelled by misinformation, even within gay and lesbian communities.

“Across countless cultures, gender diversity has always existed; only the language has changed,” she said.

“Moving forward means choosing respect, acceptance and genuine dialogue so we can continue to evolve together.”

To join the parade group and register to march with It’s Raining They/Them register at coastaltwist.org.au/event/ mardi-gras-float-2026

Coastal Twist Festival is the Central Coast’s LGBTQIA+ Arts and Culture Festival, dedicated to meaningful visibility and community inclusion. Using arts and culture as a “weapon of mass construction,” the festival works toward a happier, healthier and more welcoming Central Coast.

Coastal Twist has marched in Mardi Gras every year since 2019, receiving a finalist nomination for Best Float Design in 2021, and continues to advocate for LGBTIQA+ rights, safety and visibility across the region.

Law

Matters

Driving

Web: www.lindaemery.com.au

Ground Floor, Suite 6, 22 Watt

Gosford

Coastal Twist Festival’s float headed to 2026 Mardi Gras parade

Amy Shark one night only at The Art House

One of Australia’s most formidable songwriters

Amy Shark will be hitting the road again this October through to December performing an additional 26 shows on The Solo Acoustic Songs and Stories tour.

Extended due to popular demand these final dates on the tour kick off on October 30 and will include a performance at The Art House Wyong on December 17.

Shark performs the entire set acoustically, with supporting, emotional and honest stories for every song.

The last Central Coast Music and Arts Mix and Master event for the year will be held from 6pm-8pm on Thursday, December 11, at the Link and Pin in Railway St, Woy Woy.

After a successful first round, Creating Connections is back by demand.

This time, just before the holiday season, it will be a relaxed, small-group format designed to help creatives meet other creatives in a genuine, low-pressure way.

After bursting onto the global music scene in 2016, Shark’s six-time platinum single Adore put her on the map.

Shark’s debut #1 ARIA album and platinum-certified Love Monster was recognised in 2018 with four ARIAs, Album of the Year, Best Female Artist, Best Pop Release, Best Producer and was nominated for another five. Love Monster went on to become the highest-selling album by an Australian artist in 2018.

In 2020, Shark released her ARIA-winning, two-time platinum-accredited single, Everybody Rise, which is nearing

50 million streams globally and spent 12 weeks in the Top 10 Australian airplay chart.

Shark’s sophomore album, Cry Forever, was her second #1 ARIA debut, holding the top spot for two weeks consecutively.

Shark teamed up with blink182’s Travis Barker on goldaccredited single C’Mon and global superstar Ed Sheeran to co-write the two-time platinum single Love Song’s Ain’t for Us featuring Keith Urban.

In 2023, she released now gold-accredited single Can I Shower At Yours, graced the cover of Rolling Stone Australia, supported Coldplay for their

stadium shows in Perth and made her debut as a judge on Australia Idol for which she picked up her first Logie, winning the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent.

2024 saw Shark return to her judging role for a hugely successful second season of Australian Idol and release her third #1 ARIA Album Sunday Sadness, as well as embarking on her Australian and New Zealand tour, The Sadness Tour.

She hit the road again early 2025 performing shows across Australia on a sold-out 20-date Solo Acoustic ‘Songs and Stories’ regional tour.

Creatives meet at Link and Pin

Throughout the evening, there will be a series of casual group rotations where you can chat, share your work, and discover

Get into Christmas spirit and support Coast Shelter

This Christmas, families on the Coast have the perfect excuse to get into the Christmas spirit while supporting a truly worthy cause.

The beloved Pearl Beach Santa Photos are back, and all profits from the event will go to Coast Shelter, helping those experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, and families affected by domestic violence in our region.

Local professional photographer Lisa Haymes will be capturing magical moments with Santa every Saturday and Sunday from 8.30am to 1pm until December 22, near the amenities block on Pearl Pde.

Each session, priced at $85, includes at least six beautifully edited photos, perfect for Christmas cards, gifts, or just great memories.

“Pearl Beach Santa Photos isn’t just about having some fun,” one of the volunteer organisers Karina Stafford said.

“It’s an opportunity for our community to come together and give back.

“Every session booked contributes directly to Coast Shelter, supporting families and individuals in need, including those impacted by domestic violence.”

The event is open to everyone and bookings are essential to secure a spot with Santa.

Families including pets, friends, and even local businesses are encouraged to

join in the festivities and make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

For bookings and more information, visit www. pearlbeachnsw.com.au/santa

Celebrate the season, capture great memories, and spread some Christmas cheer all while supporting a cause that truly matters.

new collaborators in a friendly, easygoing setting.

No stress, no speed rounds –just real conversations with fellow musicians, artists, and industry folk.

To make connecting even easier, everyone who preregisters will have personalised contact cards printed for the night, so swapping details and keeping in touch is simple.

Whether you’re looking to find your next project partner, make new creative friends, or broaden your community on the Coast, this event is all about building meaningful connections.

Stick around afterwards for the CCMA Christmas party and the Link and Pin jam night.

Pre-register to make sure your contact card is printed and ready to go, and to help with catering numbers.

Light refreshments provided. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult aged over 25. For more information and free registration go to community@ centralcoastmusicarts.com

Book Review by Julie Chessman

I was quite awed by this biography.

I thought it may be a little stuffy, from an author who has won not only the acclaimed Pulitzer Prize for fiction by also the Carnegie medal, but it was readable and relatable and thoroughly enjoyable.

It is a luminous, deeply human meditation on time, place and the bewildering beauty of early parenthood, and living in the present.

I was surprised to learn that Doerr was American; I thought he was European.

I am not sure why exactly; his of style writing?

By Anthony Doerr

It recounts a year of astonishing upheaval and chaos as Doerr and his wife move to Italy just as they bring premature twin boys into the world.

Written during the year Doerr spent in Rome after receiving the Rome Literary Award, the book blends travel writing, memoir and cultural reflection into a narrative that is as tender as it is observant, with a lyrical style the same as his fiction.

The tension between the city’s vast, ancient historical grandeur and the intimate urgent world of infants becomes the book’s animating contrast. Doerr wanders through Rome’s labyrinthine streets, its sunstruck piazzas and shadowy basilicas, even as he stumbles through sleepless nights, endless diaper changes and the raw anxieties of new fatherhood. Deeply touching, though not overly sentimental, Doerr’s writing brings you right into that first year of parenthood. This memoir is incredibly satisfying with its reflections on parenting, writing, living in a new place and life.

Meet other creatives in a relaxed setting

Amy Shark Photo: Cybele Malinowski

Pearl Beach Santa Photos are back for another year

Julie Chessman

Four Seasons in Rome

Trans comedy hits the Fun Haus

Australia’s trans and gender-diverse comedy talent is set to take centre stage this week as Gosford’s Fun Haus Factory presents Trans Christian Anderson and Friends, fresh off its standout success at the Sydney Fringe Festival.

Audiences can now catch this hilarious showcase – hosted and curated by Chris McAllister and headlined by Drew Bowie – proving that trans people can take a joke and make a joke.

It’s an uplifting night of sharp wit, good humour and unapologetic queer joy.

While touring the solo show The Trans Comedian internationally, Chris McAllister

has been running five-week comedy workshops for emerging trans and gender-diverse performers, shaping a polished, punchy lineup of new comics ready for the spotlight.

McAllister is a Sydney-based comedian and writer known for sharp observational humour, heartfelt storytelling and a global online following built around their posts celebrating trans joy. Their popular hashtag #ICanTell invites audiences to uplift queer stories and has fostered a thriving community.

They have performed across Australia and the UK, and in 2025 becomes the first trans masc comedian to tour regional Australia.

Don’t miss Troubadour Folk Club’s

Christmas concert

The Troubadour Folk Club will hold its Christmas concert from 7pm-10pm on Saturday, December 13, at the Everglades Country Club in Woy Woy.

Entry is just $10 per ticket, with all welcome and funds raised on the night to go to Woy Woy’s Mary Macs Place, the

not-for-profit support service in Woy Woy that provides food, meals and all sorts of special support for those in need.

The show this year has the theme of ‘international music’ and ‘Christmas Around the World’.

Artists and musicians from the Troubadour Club will be

What’s On What’s On What’s On What’s On

THU 11 DEC

Games in Libraries: Spirits of Christmas: Tuggerah Library 4pm

Guitar Department Concert –Term 4: Robert Knox Hall, Gosford 7pm

Encore by Wil Sabin Dance Academy: Laycock St Theatre, Wyoming [+ Dec 14]

Evolve 2025 Soloist Showcase: The Art House, Wyong 5.30pm

Electrify Bouddi AGM/ Christmas Drinks: Hardys Bay Club 6.30pm

Gingerbread House Decorating

Night: Women’s Shed Central Coast, Berkley Vale 6.30pm

December Mix & MasterCreating Connections: Meet, Mix & Mingle + Chrissy Party: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

FRI 12 DEC

Football: Central Coast Mariners Mens Vs Aukland FC:

polytec Stadium, Gosford 7:35pm

Christmas on the Farm: Eastcoast Beverages, Kulnara [* various + Dec 13 & Dec 14]

L&P 5th Birthday Show 8Lion Island ‘Heavy Lifting’ Album Launch + Drugs In Sport + Rackham: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

Trans Christian Anderson And Friends - Comedy: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 7pm

The Album Show: Tom Petty & Stevie Nicks Tribute: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

Regurgitator: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 8pm

CHOICES by Michelle Maree’s School of Dance: Laycock Street Theatre 6.30pm

Mad Cow – Short Chops: The Peninsula Theatre, Woy Woy *various to Dec 13

Kool Katz: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

donating their time and will search out songs that have either some foreign language in the lyrics, or have some sort of international connection.

“It’s going to be a fascinating collection of musical styles and taste and a highly entertaining night,” a spokesperson said.

“The Troubadour has had

Ourimbah Christmas Twilight Market: Rustique on the Coast, Ourimbah 4pm

Jenny Marie Lang: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm

SAT 13 DEC

Troubadour Central Coast: Christmas Around the World: The Everglades, Woy Woy 7pm

Family Christmas Card Making: Erina Library 10am

The Playful Plate: A Restaurant With Nothing to Eat: Near the Water Playground, The Entrance Rd 3pm [+ Dec 14]

some absolutely wonderful acts this past year … and Troubadour artists have learnt from watching these great performers, and that will be on show at the Christmas party concert.”

Bookings can be made at www.trybooking.com/DHHSJ

Ebb & Flow Vocal Ensemble’s Christmas at the Library: Gosford Regional Library 1pm

L&P 5th Birthday Show 9: Beefweek + Pilots Of Baalbek + Simon Chainsaw + Crapulous Gee Gaw: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 1pm

Tex Perkins and Matt Walker Back Again: Avoca Beach Theatre [+ Dec 14]

String Ensembles Concert: Robert Knox Hall, Gosford 2pm

Community Christmas Party with Micky G and Mates: Hardys Bay Club 5pm

Headliner Drew Bowie brings a singular comedic voice shaped by a life that has taken her from infantry soldier to film-set armourer to cult LEGO webcomic creator.

A long-time stand-up, she has appeared on Hard Quiz and Think Tank, and has worked on major films including The Matrix and Revenge of the Sith.

Offstage, she creates her LEGO webcomic The Studwall Riot and helps run trans community events in the Blue Mountains.

The showcase also features a mix of local and Sydney talent, including two Central Coast performers – Aaron Miller, a local queer emerging comic with lived experience of cerebral palsy –

alongside Senan Gill, May Tran, Nate Murray, Phoenix Frost, Bryson Douglas and Criss Portilla.

Together they bring a night that champions queer joy,community pride and the next wave of trans and gender-diverse comedy.

The event takes place at Gosford’s Fun Haus Factory on Friday, December 12.

Doors open at 6pm with a $15 cocktail happy hour and food from Beau’s Burgers, followed by an energising evening of trans and queer comedy. Book at funhausfactory.org.

BMANZ “No way out” EP Release Party: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

Van-Anh Nguyen plays Chopin, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninoff, Hans Zimmer: Avoca Beach Theatre 1.30pm

Adult Soirée Evening: Central Coast Conservatorium of Music 7.30pm

Ethan Beckton / Baxter’s Revenge: Gosford RSL Club 2pm / 8.30pm

Young Archie: Gosford Regional Gallery *various to Jan 14

SUN 14 DEC

Create For Charity - Sewing and Yarn Craft: Women’s Shed Central Coast, Berkley Vale 9.30am

Mega Jam: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 1pm

Bathtub Gin Trio: Gosford RSL Club 1pm

The Christmas Wonder Show By Jonas Jost: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 2pm

Giraffe Band: Hardys Bay Club 2pm

MON 15 DEC

The Edge Dance StudioUnder The Light: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 5pm Road to Bethlehem: Karalta Lane, Erina 6:10pm

TUE 16 DEC

Preschool Christmas Craft: Umina Beach Library 10.30pm

WED 17 DEC

Amy Shark – The Solo Acoustic Songs & Stories Tour: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 7:15pm The Album Show Christmas Celebration: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

THU 18 DEC

Puzzle Swap And Morning Tea: Toukley Library 10am

Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Race Day: The Entertainment Grounds, Racecourse Road, West Gosford 12pm

The Academy - Melody In Motion: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 6.30pm

Trans Christian Anderson

Cia

End the year with some trivia

Confronting screening

The movie Gaza Nippers: hope amid devastation will be shown at 6.30pm on Saturday, December 13, at Woy Woy Sea Scout Hall.

The documentary follows the inspiring story of two young men who trained as surf lifesavers in Manly and returned to Gaza to set up the first Gaza Nippers program, offering the children a lifeline and moments of joy and resilience amid the devastation.

Tickets can be purchased for $10 (with an option to donate more) at events.humanitix. com/ccfp-film-fundraiseror-gaza-nippers-hopeamid-devastation with limited tickets at the door if not sold out.

Funds raised will go directly to Gaza Soup Kitchen and Central Coast Safelink Alliance.

Central Coast Friends of Palestine (CCFP) holds a fortnightly vigil on Tuesday afternoons from 4pm near Kibble Park, where Safelink works to support the homeless.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

If you’re searching for the perfect work Christmas party idea or a fun way to wrap up the year with your mates before the family chaos takes over, then gather your crew for the hottest and most unhinged trivia night on the Central Coast at the Fun Haus Factory.

Brain Power Trivia is back, with the final showdown of the year landing on Thursday, December 11, just in time for those end-of-year celebrations.

This cheeky, high-energy

night promises laughs, blushes, and fierce battles for bragging rights as teams dive into outrageous in-house games like Celebrity Six-Pack, Musician or Serial Killer, and Martial Arts or Kama Sutra.

With wild twists, full onscreen visuals, and questions designed to test both your brain and your poker face, this is trivia reimagined for the modern mischief-maker.

The room is set for killer vibes, silly competitions, and prizes worth talking about long after Christmas — including

the coveted winner’s trophy and the iconic wooden spoon for the last-place legends.

Happy Hour from 6pm features $15 cocktails and Beau’s Burgers and street eats, full AV production, followed by classic pen-and-paper play. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year with friends or colleagues, flex that weird knowledge, feel good about where your money goes, and enjoy one last big laugh before the holiday break. Register your team at funhausfactory.org.au

Writers group winds up year with haiku competition

`The Wyong Writers Group’s 2025 in-house haiku competition was won by Maureen Trotter with Keith Brady named as runner-up.

A haiku is a three-line poem with 17 syllables focusing on a brief moment in time, often with nature images, and a sense of sudden enlightenment. Trotter’s winning entry was: glimpses through; bare limbed hedge; homestead Brady’s runner-up entry was: flashing in the late sun;

sardines; fresh from the Bosphorus

The club hosted a workshop by haiku specialist Vanessa Proctor as a lead-in to the competition to help members understand haiku poetry.

The club’s 2025 anthology Moonlight and Shadows with a theme of moonlight can play tricks on your eyes was completed in November.

A workshop on writing a children’s story will be conducted by group member Patricia Webb on February 28

as the club’s in-house prose competition 2026 gets underway.

Visitors are welcome to attend the workshop.

For detail of meeting times, venue and more information visit the club’s website www. wyongwriters.org or call president Lorraine Munt on 0409 600 963.

“We look forward to seeing you there to develop your writing skills, share your writing journey and also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee,” she said.

Wrap up the year with some trivia

Photo: Syl Marie Photography

Wyong Writers president Lorraine Munt (left) with Haiku winner Maureen Trotter

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

Feeble

Speech

Pronounced

... of Troy

Built-up (zone)

Lament for the dead

Genetic code carrier (1,1,1)

Beneath 20. Aegean or Caspian

Household job

Light-ray tool

Cane spirit

Love

Prank

Rage

Mother

Sexually pure 35. Use computer keyboard

Exam 39. Affixed with spikes 42. Lower leg joint

Gain (respect) 45. Seeking damages from

US university

Allege

Windmill blades

Forest plant

French hat

Religious offshoot

Is brave enough

Tardiest

62. Whichever

Admires grudgingly

Muddle

Bring about

(1,2)

Cooking herb

Proper name

Medicine portion

History of tourism author on hand for book signing

Central Coast Antiques & Collectables will host acclaimed local author and historian Peter Fisher for a book signing event on Saturday, December 13, at 3 Watt St, Gosford.

Fisher will be there from 10.30am to noon signing copies of his book, Wish You Were Here: A History of Tourism on the Central Coast, which documents the evolution of tourism in the region from its earliest days up to the 1970s.

The book, which took four years to complete, reveals fascinating untold stories about how the Central Coast became the beloved holiday destination it is today.

“The history of Central Coast tourism is fascinating and often overlooked,” Fisher said.

“Central Coast tourism first

got its start when the railway went through.

“In an era when relatively few Sydneysiders had witnessed the Hawkesbury River firsthand, much less knew about or visited the Central Coast, the ability to hop on a steam train at Central station and arrive here within a few short hours was considered absolutely amazing.”

Originally from Canada, Fisher has called the Central Coast home for 38 years since arriving in 1987.

The retired language teacher is also the author of Tales from the Rainforest: History and Heritage on the NSW Central Coast, which detailed the region’s natural heritage and proved an instant success upon its release.

The book signing event takes on special significance given

the venue’s connection to the book’s content.

Central Coast Antiques & Collectables proprietor Mitchell Gordon has contributed significantly to preserving the region’s tourism history through his remarkable collection of local souvenir ware.

“These collectable pieces offer a glimpse into the past and illustrate how tourism has evolved in this region,” Gordon said.

The souvenirs featured in Fisher’s book were collected via the home clearance arm of Gordon’s social enterprise, which clears up to three houses per week in partnership with organisations including the Public Trustee, Living Choice, and JL Property Co.

Gordon founded Central Coast Antiques & Collectables

during the COVID-19 pandemic as a social enterprise to assist local charities.

The store, which has been operating for more than four years at its current Watt St location, continues to support charitable organisations including Allawah House Women’s Shelter, Lifeline Shop Gosford, The Entrance Hub, and Coast Shelter.

Copies of Wish You Were Here: A History of Tourism on the Central Coast will be available for purchase at the event for $35.

The book is also available at the Locomotive Café at Tascott, The Book Nook at Umina, and directly from the author via email at peterfisher centralcoast@gmail.com

Central Coast Antiques & Collectables is open seven days a week.

Spice it up with Ian’s new cookbook

The Friends of the ABC held their annual Christmas lunch on November 27 and are looking forward to 50th anniversary celebrations next year.

A spokesperson said guest speakers Rob Carlton and Adrienne Ferreira addressed a gathering of about 60 members and visitors.

“Rob and Adrienne spoke about the importance of the arts and imagination in our lives, to build community and strengthen well-being and mental health,” the spokesperson said.

“In a response to what they described as a ‘writing wasteland’ on the Central Coast, they introduced their

Ian Hemphill from Charmhaven’s Herbie’s Spices has published an innovative new cookbook, written in collaboration with his daughter Kate McIntosh.

How To Add Flavor teaches home cooks which spices to use and when to use them.

Australia’s premier spice expert presents recipes that brings the simple art of spicing meals within everyone’s reach.

For many home cooks, the biggest challenge isn’t cooking itself but knowing which spices and herbs to use to transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals.

How To Add Flavor offers a

practical solution to this common culinary dilemma.

“Cooks in the know understand that spices don’t necessarily equate to heat,” Hemphill said.

“Rather, use spices and herbs to enhance food flavours and to create new taste combinations and sensations.

“This book completely demystifies the art of combining herbs and spices so home cooks can meet and enjoy a world of flavours previously found only at internationally inspired restaurants.”

This cookbook is shaped by the authors’ exceptional credentials and passion for culinary excellence.

Hemphill is Australia’s most

well-known spice connoisseur, having worked in the industry for decades.

His masterwork, The Spice & Herb Bible (third edition), was a finalist in the Reference and Scholarship category of the James Beard Awards in 2015, which many consider to be the Oscars of the food world.

The second edition was joint winner of the award for Best Reference Book at the IACP (International Association of Culinary Professionals) Cookbook Awards in Chicago in 2007.

Kate McIntosh runs her own food consulting business in the UK and contributed 125 new recipes to the third edition of The Spice & Herb Bible. Together, they bring a wealth

Friends of ABC wind up for year

unique storytelling project, Bravewords Live.

“Bravewords helps ordinary people to write and share their own true stories.

“More than 150 stories have been written and shared so far in monthly performances at Gosford’s Fun Haus.

“A podcast is coming to share the stories more widely.

“Rob also read from a speech that his father, former Liberal MP Jim Carlton, made to parliament in 1982.

“The speech spoke of the importance of the ABC and of the government’s responsibility to protect its independence and to ensure funding provided for excellence in broadcasting.”

of experience and knowledge in the culinary use of herbs and spices.

With a basic pantry of just 15 herbs and spices, all clearly described, readers can easily master the art of seasoning and transform their everyday cooking.

The book is organised into three practical sections designed for maximum learning and confidence building.

How To Add Flavor is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks who want to master the art of seasoning and transform their everyday cooking. Published by Robert Rose it is available from all good book retailers and online

Peter Fisher

Rob Carlton reads from his father’s speech; Adrienne Ferreira addresses the gathering

Ian Hemphill with his new cookbook

Help with Services Australia & Medicare

Business & Property

Accolade for regional gallery

Gosford Regional Gallery has received a highly commended award at the Museums & Galleries of NSW annual IMAGinE Awards, which took place in Sydney on Wednesday, November 26.

The significant accolade shines a spotlight on the exceptional 2025 DandhiGrounded First Nations Residency Exhibition and Banner Project, a remarkable initiative paying tribute to the richness of First Nations

culture, creativity and the spirit of community collaboration.

The Dandhi – Grounded First Nations Exhibition and Banner Project marked Gosford Regional Gallery’s inaugural residency program for First Nations artists.

Developed and presented in partnership with Ethan-james Kotiau, the exhibition was about being connected to the land, the waterways, and culture – encouraging diverse voices and creative expression.

This recognition arrives as Gosford Regional Gallery

celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of nurturing artistic talent and fostering cultural connections on the Central Coast.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the award reflects Council’s commitment to celebrating and supporting First Nations people in the community.

“We are fortunate to have such a strong and vibrant arts culture on the Coast,”

Mayor Lawrie McKinna

“Initiatives like the Dandhi-

Grounded Project highlight how the Gosford Regional Gallery is creating meaningful opportunities for First Nations artists to share their stories, traditions and creativity with the broader community,” he said.

“The IMAGinE Awards commendation is not only an achievement for Gosford Regional Gallery, but a proud moment for the wider Central Coast community as we come together to celebrate shared stories, traditions and creative excellence.”

The impact of the DandhiGrounded project has extended far beyond the Gallery’s walls.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said that the recognition exemplifies the Gallery’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, community involvement and the amplification of diverse voices in the arts.

“Art has the power to unite communities and honour every voice,” she said.

“By embracing diversity and fostering inclusion, we

More women are breaking the grass ceiling

Recent data has revealed more Australian women are breaking the “grass ceiling” by swapping the laundry and cooking for mowing and maintenance.

Umina Beach single mother of two Melissa Chandler is one such Aussie and says she’d much prefer to be outside on the tools in the garden and perfecting a lawn, rather than being cooped up inside doing house chores.

She loved maintaining her own garden so much, she now looks after other people’s lawns and has run her gardening business in Pearl Beach for the past six years.

Yates horticulturalist Angie Thomas said in Australia men had traditionally held the role of taking care of the backyard, but

that was changing with women increasingly breaking the ‘green gender gap’.

It’s also playing out professionally, with latest skills insight data showing women accounted for 22% of the broader horticulture, landscaping conservation and ecosystems management, which is up 8% in five years.

It’s a statistic that does not surprise Ms Chandler, who is a gardener and “on the tools” day in and day out.

“I’m not a landscaper, I’m a gardener and I do everything like hedging, weeding, fertilising and mowing,” she said.

Originally, she studied to be a teacher and has a background in marketing, media and working on super yachts.

Then she got into property staging when her two children were small.

“I realised after about two years that a lot of those properties needed their gardens fixed up,” she said.

With a lifelong interest in gardening thanks to her mum who studied horticulture, Ms Chandler made the leap and started her own gardening business.

“Often people assume I’m the

designer when I turn up,” she said.

“I’m very much not that person – I am the person on the tools who gets dirty every day.

“The feedback I get from my clients is very positive.

“They like dealing with a woman.

“I think they appreciate the care, attention to detail, time management skills and clear communication.

“I feel privileged to be doing the work and I’m always interested in getting feedback from clients – they’re paying for it and they should get what they want.

“It is very physically demanding and as a single parent of two children, they know that when I first walk in

celebrate the strength and richness that each culture brings to our shared story.

“Central Coast Council warmly congratulates the Gallery team for their continued commitment to inspiring and strengthening community connections through arts, culture and inclusion.”

For more information on upcoming exhibitions and events, visit the Gosford Regional Gallery website.

the door, I need 15 minutes to calm down.

“It’s like running a marathon every day, you have to be a person who thrives on that.” She works in Pearl Beach with word-of-mouth recommendations keeping her extremely busy.

“The Pearl Beach trees certainly keep me employed,” she said.

“It’s a very tight community and I think a lot of women feel comfortable with a woman.

“For women who have semiretired or were stay at home mums looking for other work, don’t be a cleaner.

“Get into gardening; it’s great for your mental health and great for your physical health.”

The Dandhi-Grounded exhibition drew large crowds in February

Melissa Chandler thrives on hard work

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch says new strata laws being introduced by the NSW Government will better protect owners.

Consumer protection measures now in effect will help owners pay off their strata debt by requiring owners corporations to offer a payment plan before taking debt recovery action and prohibiting blanket rules to refuse payment plans.

Practical assistance is now available for owners in financial stress; a Financial Hardship Information Statement is to be sent with every strata levy notice to make it easier for owners to stay on top of their levies and get help faster when they need it.

New strata laws provide protection

New accountability and transparency standards for strata managing agents require them to act in the best interests of their clients, with penalties of between $11,000 and $22,000 for breaches, and to disclose any conflicts of interest or kickbacks.

NSW Fair Trading now has the power to issue compliance notices and enter enforceable undertakings with owners corporations that do not meet their duties to maintain and repair common property. These changes will ensure serious maintenance issues and defects can be fixed without expensive and timeconsuming litigation through the courts or tribunal.

Ms Tesch said new measures

also included; increased penalties for strata agents who don’t disclose conflicts of interests or kickbacks; a ban on unfair contract terms in strata or building management,

cleaning and gardening contracts; making it easier for owners to do minor renovations; and removing barriers to the uptake of sustainability measures such as solar panels

Separate female amenities at footy club

A proposal is being considered by Central Coast Council to construct an amenities block for females at the Ourimbah Sporting Fields.

The fields, at 10 Chittaway Rd, Ourimbah, are occupied by Ourimbah United Football Club.

The development application is for a single-storey amenities

building directly to the east of the existing clubhouse to accommodate separate female changeroom facilities for both home and away teams.

Each changeroom will comprise an open change area, two toilets, and two showers.

The building will also include a surrounding concrete

pathway and concrete stairs to facilitate access.

The existing clubhouse currently provides only male and referee changerooms, which are also used by female teams.

The football club said this arrangement is inadequate, and it wants to provide dedicated female changeroom

December 2025 Public Exhibition Notification of Herbicide Use

Central Coast Council will be applying Glyphosate 360 and Metasulfuron-methyl between 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026 to specific waterways and drainage lines within the local government area for the purpose of waterway, ecosystem and asset protection. Glyphosate is registered for use in Australia by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. Non-chemical methods of weed control are also utilised wherever practicable. During application, signage will be clearly displayed to notify application of herbicides to waterways and will include information on the herbicide being applied, the location details, the dates and the weed Council is managing. During signposted periods, the public is advised not to use, drink or swim in the water until signage is removed.

For further information or to obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the product, please contact Council’s Environmental Infrastructure Section on 02 4306 7900.

This notification is provided in accordance with Council’s Pesticide Use Notification Plan and the Environmental Protection Licence 7643 which can be viewed by visiting the Wyong Administration Building or search ‘Herbicide Spraying Program’ online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

David Farmer Chief Executive Officer

December 2025

and electric vehicle charging by prohibiting bylaws that block the infrastructure due to external appearance.

“The effective management of strata communities is a significant part of the Government’s plan to increase housing in Gosford and across NSW, with more than 50% of Sydney’s total population predicted to live in strata by 2040,” Ms Tesch said.

“These new laws mean you can access practical financial assistance in times of stress, and have confidence in the transparency and accountability of your strata managing agent.”

The new laws are part of three tranches of strata reforms the Minns Government has

introduced since November 2023.

These reforms have been designed to restore consumer confidence in strata living which is vital to the Government’s housing agenda.

More than 1.2 million people already live in strata, with that number set to rise under the Government’s strategic planning reforms.

Compliance with the reforms will be led by the $8.4M Strata and Property Services Taskforce within NSW Fair Trading, which has dedicated inspectors and investigators who examine issues across the real estate industry including strata.

facilities to ensure appropriate accommodation for all players.

Ourimbah Sporting Fields are owned by the NSW Department of Education and leased longterm to Central Coast Council to ensure the land is maintained and available for ongoing recreational and community use, supporting the activities of the Ourimbah United Football Club and other local groups.

Point Clare base offers the perfect meeting room

The meeting room at the new $3.26M Marine Rescue Brisbane Water base at Point Clare is now available for hire to those looking for the perfect meeting room with plenty of sealed car parking spaces.

The meeting room, capable of comfortably seating 60 people in theatre-style rows or 40 with supplied tables and chairs, has excellent audio-visual equipment, an ideal kitchen for catering light suppers, and all other standard amenities.

The venue has already been used by several local groups, including the NSW Police and service organisations and received a unanimous a thumbs up.

The meeting room and facilities are available for casual or regular hire to any professional organisation on the Central Coast.

The venue is perfect for product launches, regular team meetings, group activities or classes, club meetings, educational lectures, or training

courses, all for a nominal fee of $350 a day between 9am and 5pm weekdays.

The room is not available on weekends, no alcohol is allowed, and users will need to make their own catering arrangements.

For more information or to arrange an inspection contact Ian Leafe on 0409 877 429. General enquiries can also be made through the Marine Rescue Brisbane Water base on 4337 9600.

The site for the female changerooms

The meeting room in the new Marine Rescue Brisbane Water base can hold up to 60 people

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch chats to strata residents

BUSINESS

BRIEF Return and earn boasts latest

technology

The Bateau Bay Square Return and Earn machine has been upgraded to the latest ‘takes all’ technology.

This means all eligible containers can be returned through any of the machine’s four chutes without the need to pre-sort glass containers from plastic and aluminium.

The new technology is set to make recycling easier for eager recyclers.

The machine has been relocated onsite as part of this upgrade, making parking and access easier for recyclers.

It is now located at the rear of the shopping centre, near the Kmart loading dock.

Central Coast Council residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned more than 671 million drink containers through local return points since the scheme began in 2017.

For more information about your nearest return point, visit www.returnandearn.org.au

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Severe weather can cause havoc for small businesses

New data has revealed the rising toll severe weather is having on businesses with insurance claims almost doubling over the past three years.

One of NSW’s leading pearl and oyster producers, Broken Bay Pearl Farm, knows full well the impact severe weather can have on business after losing its entire stock worth millions of dollars during back-to-back floods in March 2021 and July 2022.

Owner James Brown said the business was only just getting back on its feet, taking more than two years to re-harvest the first pearls.

The full recovery of the hatchery and production is expected to take four to five years.

BizCover general manager Brad Miller has warned sudden weather events can take a real toll on businesses like Broken Bay Pearl Farm.

Power outages, fires and storm damage rank as the top threats to operations nationwide, with damage from fallen trees or flash flooding and damage to equipment the most common claim, with the damage bill typically around $39,000 and as much as $200,000.

Mr Miller said Australian small businesses were being hit harder than ever by costly disruptions with data showing claims resulting from severe weather events jumped from 9.6% in 2023 to 16.8% in 2025.

“Severe weather events and unexpected power outages can take a real toll on small business owners,” he said.

“It’s a wake-up call for businesses to assess their risk exposure and ensure they’re adequately protected against these sorts of business interruptions.

“Even a relatively short interruption can lead to lost revenue, supply delays and costly repairs.

“These are the kinds of impacts some small operators often can’t absorb without the right insurance cover in place.

“If you’re a retailer such as a butcher, a power outage can mean losing your cool room and thousands of dollars’ worth of stock in a matter of hours.

“A fire or flood could be even more devastating, potentially shutting down a business for weeks or months.”

Mr Miller said businesses in

Queensland and NSW were hit the hardest by weather events over the past three years, with Queensland seeing the biggest increase with severe weather events making up 20.6% of all claims, the second largest category behind theft.

In NSW, severe weather events made up 13.3% of all business claims and in Victoria accounted for 8.2% of claims.

Mr Miller urged business owners to look beyond immediate risks and consider the broader impact of disruptions beyond their control.

“Business insurance can act as financial protection against unexpected claims,” he said.

“Too many businesses underestimate their exposure or carry inadequate cover, leaving themselves vulnerable when disaster strikes.”

“It’s not just about repairing damage.

“It’s often about keeping your business running.

“The right cover, including Business Interruption insurance, can help replace lost profits and support recovery after a shutdown.”

James Brown from Broken Bay Pearl Farm Pearl Farm Hub Brisbane Water

It’s been a tough year for many people.

Community Contact List I want to extend my best wishes over the Christmas break to people on the Central Coast and want to thank the local community groups, front line workers, the SES and volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout the year when we needed them most.

The Gosford Erina Business Chamber has paid tribute to long-time businessman and publisher Edgar Adams, hosting its annual Christmas meeting in his honour on the 28th floor of the newly opened Archibald development in Gosford.

Adams, who retired earlier this year after more than 35 years at the helm of the Central Coast Business Review, was joined by family, friends, colleagues and a notable assembly of political allies and adversaries.

The sweeping views from the top-floor venue provided a fitting backdrop for a man whose commentary helped shape the region’s business conversation for more than three decades.

Speakers reflected on Adams’ reputation as a “publishing boxer,” a title earned through

Tribute to Edgar Adams from the top floor

his sharp, uncompromising editorials and unwavering commitment to holding decision-makers to account.

Among those offering personal congratulations was well-known local furniture

businessman Nik Poulos, of Nik and Jane’s Furniture and

Bedding Express, who credited Adams with “lifting the business bar on the Coast” and giving small operators the confidence to push harder and think bigger.

“Edgar kept us all honest, but he also inspired us to back ourselves,” Mr Poulos said.

“This region is better for his voice.”

Guests throughout the room shared similar sentiments, recalling a publisher who championed local enterprise, challenged bureaucratic inertia and consistently pushed for the

Central Coast to be recognised as a serious economic centre.

Even long-standing political opponents acknowledged the value of his fearless advocacy, with several noting that while Adams often sparred with them, he did so with integrity and purpose.

Family members spoke warmly of his dedication to the craft of publishing, noting the long hours and resolve that shaped CCBR into a trusted chronicle of the region’s commercial life.

Chamber representatives emphasised that his editorials influenced debate across boardrooms, council forums and community organisations. As glasses were raised above the city he advocated for and wrote about for decades, the mood was both celebratory and reflective.

Adams’ retirement marks the end of an era for business journalism on the Central Coast, but his legacy, a more confident and better informed business community, remains firmly in place.

Luxury apartment development sets new standards

A luxury development at 117 The Esplanade, Ettalong Beach, is tipped to set new standards in apartment developments on the Central Coast.

Developed by Gene Property and designed by True North Architects, the apartments are introducing a new level of luxury living and design to the quiet beachside town.

“We’re offering the opportunity to secure the penthouse set within the boutique complex of just four bespoke coastal residences,” head of Project Marketing for Highland Luke Barbuto said.

consists of four exclusive three-bedroom, two bath beachfront residences, each with private single-level layouts, three-metre-high ceilings and direct lift access to each residence.

Broad roofed terraces extend outward to sea and sun decks, while floor to ceiling windows take advantage of the panoramic sea view to Ettalong Point.

The complex also provides secure basement parking and EV charging provisions.

local boutiques and wellness destinations create an ideal setting for those seeking a permanent sea change, a turnkey holiday home or a highcalibre short-stay investment along the Central Coast,” Barbuto said.

A Gene Property spokesperson said interest at the top end of the market was driven by multiple factors including location, lifestyle, and luxury and the focus had been on delivering all three, delivered seamlessly in every aspect of the development.

And the opportunity is proving to be popular.

“Combining sophisticated design, custom-crafted interiors, premium finishes, and sweeping views over Broken Bay, this penthouse delivers a standard of coastal luxury that is truly one of a kind.”

According to Barbuto the first open house held recently was flooded with buyers looking to view the beachfront penthouse which is priced at just over $4.5M.

“Buyers were a mix of Central Coast downsizers as well as investors from the eastern suburbs looking to purchase a second home,” he said.

The new development

Positioned to enjoy the best of Ettalong Beach and surrounds, the development is located within walking distance of both the elegant waterfront dining spots and casual cafe lifestyle.

“Ettalong Diggers, Mantra Ettalong Beach and a host of

“Every detail reflects the highest standard of design excellence, from its Sydney Eastern suburbs build quality, to its serene beachfront setting,” the spokesperson said.

Fair Trading blitz on real estate and property services

NSW Fair Trading (NSWFT) recently undertook unannounced visits to 64 real estate and property services businesses on the Central Coast resulting in on-the-spot fines, warning letters and the opening of an investigation into a real estate agent for repeated under-quoting breaches. Fair Trading deployed 12 inspectors for five days as part of its Anywhere Anytime audit program to enforce NSW strata and property laws by targeting regulatory priorities including underquoting, misrepresentations and fair contracting.

The Strata and Property

Services Commissioner and Fair Trading inspectors visited 33 real estate agents, 13 retirement villages, seven residential (land lease) communities, six strata agents and five conveyancers in Gosford, Terrigal, Erina, Bateau Bay and Avoca.

During the visits, inspectors issued seven penalty infringement notices to real estate agents and strata agents for breaches of under-quoting, rules of conduct and supervision regulations, while one strata agent was fined for failing to have their accounts audited. A further real estate agent is now subject to ongoing investigation for under-quoting offences.

A further 20 education and warning letters were issued to real estate and strata agents and one warning/education letter was issued to a retirement village operator.

While some audits were conducted randomly, others were targeted through intelligence-led data collection, including reviewing recent sale prices, fines issued and complaint data to target consumer harms in line with Fair Trading’s compliance and enforcement priorities.

From 2024-2025 NSWFT received 42 complaints in the Central Coast region’s property sector with 16 relating to the management of strata schemes.

Property sales complaints related to misrepresentation and underquoting, while NSWFT also received 26 complaints relating to residential land lease communities.

There are more than 2,400 real estate licences in the Central Coast Council area, including more than 1,300 people holding a property licence allowing them to work as a real estate agent, while there are more than 700 individuals with property certificates allowing them to work in the industry.

Strata and Property Services

Commissioner Angus Abadee said the $8.4M Strata and Property Services Taskforce

within NSW Fair Trading allows specialised inspectors to undertake meaningful compliance and enforcement while lifting standards through proactive education.

“Our targeted compliance of licensees who had been known to NSW Fair Trading through previous enforcement outcomes showed there had been improvements to practices and record keeping, however, across the board there was room for improvement,” he said.

“While the majority of real estate agents were found to be complying with their obligations, the message is clear – you can expect a visit

from Fair Trading anytime and anywhere.

“NSW Fair Trading is planning further unannounced inspections across the state and will be targeting operators who have a compliance history, with inspectors to revisit the Central Coast in the coming months to ensure education and warning letters have been complied with.

“As we move into the peak of Spring auction periods, Fair Trading will be undertaking proactive compliance and enforcement activity to continue to combat underquoting.”

Luxury development at Ettalong sets new standards in apartment developments

David Abrahams

Edgar Adams with family members at the event Photo: CCN; Nik Poulos and Edgar Adams (right) on the 28th floor

Across Australia and around the world, walls are slowly turning green.

What once served simply as bare boundaries are now living, breathing gardens.

These living walls, sometimes called green walls, have become the answer for gardeners with little space, architects looking to soften hard surfaces, and designers wanting to introduce biodiversity into urban areas.

Yet there is more to these structures than decoration.

They represent a shift in how we garden, how we use our residential spaces, and even how cities think about air quality and insulation.

A true living wall is more than a trellis with vines planted below.

If the plants are rooted in the ground and use the wall for climbing, that is a vertical growing system, not technically a living wall.

A living wall contains plants that are supported by the wall itself, usually housed in containers or pockets that attach directly to the surface.

The plants are grown above the ground, supported physically by the structure.

In many cases, the entire living wall is fed by its own integrated watering system, making it surprisingly low maintenance once established.

The popularity of living walls has grown rapidly because they solve a number of modern gardening problems.

They allow people with little yard space to grow herbs or vegetables.

DOWN IN THE GARDEN Living Walls

They cool hot walls and provide insulation, which can lower energy use. They are also visually striking.

Gardens are no longer limited to soil surfaces and garden beds.

With creativity and the right structure, almost any wall can become a productive garden.

GETTING STARTED

The simplest way to think about a living wall is to treat it like a collection of potted plants.

After all, each plant is essentially living in a container, even if that container is part of a larger structure.

That means the same rules apply.

Plants need the right light, the correct growing medium, and suitable drainage.

Unlike a pot plant, however, a wall cannot be moved, so choosing the right location is crucial.

A sunny wall will suit Mediterranean herbs and vegetables while a shady wall will be more suited to ferns and foliage plants.

The growing medium can be ordinary potting mix, although many gardeners lighten it with perlite to reduce overall weight. Others prefer hydroponic systems, which remove soil altogether and feed plants through a nutrient rich water solution.

These systems are common in large commercial walls but can easily be adapted for home use.

Irrigation is also worth considering from the beginning. While watering by hand is

possible, a drip system makes the entire wall self maintaining, especially during summer.

STRUCTURES AND MATERIALS

There are three main types of living wall systems.

The rst are mat systems made from fabric or coir with pockets cut into them for planting.

These are inexpensive and easy to install, but the fabric eventually breaks down, especially outdoors, and is better suited to small areas rather than large installations.

Next are block systems made from plastic, berglass, or even brick.

These are durable and long lasting and are often seen on commercial buildings and large public installations.

They require more planning but offer a structure that will survive years of weather.

Finally there are free form systems, which are popular in community gardens and suburban backyards.

They rely heavily on recycled materials and imagination.

A simple example is a series of shelves attached to a fence, holding rows of potted plants.

Hanging baskets mounted against a wall also count as a living wall and are one of the easiest ways to begin.

Years ago, while living in a tiny rental in Sydney, I attached rows of window boxes to a sunny timber fence and grew a thriving herb garden.

Even the smallest space can offer opportunities once you start thinking vertically.

best life, with care at home

Whatever structure you choose, the strength of the supporting wall and the ability to withstand moisture are essential.

Even small systems carry surprising weight, especially when watered.

Ensure your wall is solid, waterproofed if necessary, and safely secured before you plant the rst pot.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Because living walls are vertical, they can heat up quickly.

Metal fences in particular absorb heat that can transfer to plants.

This suits many vegetables but it does mean watering needs increase.

Living walls also often sit under eaves, which means they may miss rainfall entirely. Install irrigation or water

regularly and use slow release fertiliser to maintain soil nutrition.

Trim plants as needed and watch for pests, just as you would in a traditional container garden.

WHAT TO GROW

Almost anything can be grown on a living wall if the container is large enough and the conditions are right.

For edible gardens, consider arugula, basil, beetroot, chillies, chives, kale, lettuce, microgreens, mint, mustard greens, oregano, parsley, rocket, spinach, strawberries, tarragon, and thyme.

Dwarf tomatoes, cucumbers, or squash varieties are also suitable with larger containers.

Ferns, succulents, and many houseplants thrive on vertical walls, provided the aspect suits them.

If you prefer owers, choose

perennials rather than annuals for a more sustainable wall with less seasonal replanting.

Local garden centres are valuable when selecting suitable species and varieties. Their staff know the microclimates of your area and can suggest plants that will thrive in your speci c position.

Living walls bring gardens into new spaces.

They soften our buildings, feed our families, improve air quality, and provide beauty in places where traditional gardens cannot go. When we begin to garden vertically, we change not only our own backyards but the possibilities for our towns, workplaces, and public spaces. In a world where outdoor space is shrinking, living walls are helping gardens climb towards the sun.

Health & Education Young science whizzes do us proud

Two local public school students made their mark at the 2025 NSW Young Scientist Awards ceremony, taking home awards across scientific investigation categories.

Natalie Gilmore of Gosford High School received an award for her scientific investigation, The Prevention of Zinc Dendrite Formation and Hydrogen

Evolution in Zinc Batteries. Natalie has been selected to take her project to represent her region in the National Science Awards.

In the Primary division, Georgia Fitzpatrick of Holgate Public School took a K-2 Scientific Investigations Award for her project Bubbly Bubble Trouble, investigating bubble mixtures.

Held at The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) on November 28, the awards ceremony marked 33 years of the Young Scientist Awards Program, which celebrates scientific and technical innovation of K-12 school students around the state.

Winning students received awards and monetary prizes for their innovative science projects.

This year’s competition attracted more than 500 project entries from across the state, with the prestigious titles of Young Scientist of the Year and Rural Young Scientist of the Year awarded alongside category prizes.

Vice-President of The Science Teachers’ Association of NSW, Dr Lauren McKnight, said the awards provided a platform for students to showcase their

Plan ahead for those hot Summer days

As the mercury rises, we know the festive season is on the horizon.

Whether you’re gearing up for a month of social catch-ups or planning a quieter festive season at home, support from Adssi In-home Support can help you or a loved one stay safe, independent, and cared for through the hotter months.

Hot weather can cause serious health problems, and advice from NSW Health suggests some people are more at risk than others: those over 75, living with chronic or acute illness, overweight, less mobile, not drinking enough water, living alone, or taking

medications that affect heat tolerance.

If any of these fit you, speak with your GP about managing hot days.

Adssi’s teams can implement plans based on GP advice, providing the best support for you or a loved one at home through additional guidance and regular check-ins. At home, small habits make a big difference.

Keep hydrated throughout the day.

Dress in light, loose-fitting clothing, and try to do chores or errands early in the morning before the temperature peaks. When it gets hot, use fans or air conditioning, rest in the

coolest room of the house (often the east or south-facing room), use pre-prepared cool packs, and choose quiet activities like reading or watching TV.

Be prepared by refreshing your emergency kit in case of a power outage, and if you live near bushland, review your bushfire survival plan.

If these tasks seem challenging, a support worker from Adssi could help make things more manageable.

If you’re having a quiet day without family and friends, consider arranging calls or visits, or drop in to local community events to stay connected.

Adssi’s activities team manages an extensive social support calendar of outings and events with something for everyone.

If you’re missing that face-toface connection, consider joining Adssi In-home Support, and they can help you get out and about in 2026.

With a little planning and the proper support, you can enjoy a safer, happier Summer at home.

Speak with the local Adssi team today on 1300 578 478 to explore its services and next steps.

Live your best life with care at home.

scientific curiosity, thinking and creativity.

“Through the Young Scientist Awards, students engage with authentic practices of science,” she said.

“They ask questions, test ideas, and put their scientific skills into action.

“In doing so, they create something genuinely unique, driven by curiosity and the

desire to explore the unknown.

“These experiences help young people see science not just as a subject, but as a way of understanding and shaping the world around them.

“By celebrating their achievements, we’re also recognising the creativity, persistence, and critical thinking that fuel Australia’s future innovation.”

Natalie Gilmore of Gosford High School; Georgia Fitzpatrick of Holgate Public School

Adssi In-home Support Social Support Coordinator Naomi and client Beryl dressed up for Halloween Trivia recently

New Medicare urgent care clinic opens at Erina Fair

Erina Fair Medical Centre has been selected to operate the new Erina Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) following a competitive tender process led by the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network.

Located in The Hive at Erina Fair, the clinic will be open seven days a week operating extended hours and will begin delivering urgent care services for the community over the coming months.

The aim is to ease pressure on Gosford Hospital’s emergency department where about 44% of presentations in 2023/24 were for semi-urgent or non-urgent conditions.

The Erina Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is the third on the

Central Coast, joining existing clinics at Lake Haven and Umina Beach.

There are now 91 UCCs operating across Australia

Life Medical Imaging has officially installed the Central Coast’s first GE Revolution Apex Elite CT scanner at its Erina clinic, setting a new benchmark in diagnostic imaging for the region.

The next-generation technology promises exceptional image quality with greater comfort, faster scan times, and lower radiation doses, all while expanding diagnostic capabilities for patients and clinicians.

With practices located at Erina, Umina Beach, Killarney Vale, and Bateau Bay, Life Medical Imaging claims it leads the way in bringing world-class technology and care to the Central Coast community.

The GE Revolution Apex Elite combines cutting-edge features designed to transform both the patient and practitioner

which have already seen more than 2.2 million presentations since the first sites opened in June 2023 including more than 452,000 presentations to the existing NSW UCCs.

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said the new clinic in Erina would be open seven days a week, extended hours and most importantly will be fully bulk billed.

“This clinic will take pressure off the local hospitals, including Gosford Hospital, and will fill an important gap in services across extended hours and over the weekend,” he said.

Federal Member for Dobell and Assistant Minister for Regional and Rural Health Emma McBride said the Lake Haven and Peninsula Medicare Urgent Care Clinics have had more than 50,000 visits since opening in 2023.

“The new Erina Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will provide Coasties greater access to urgent care, seven days a week, over extended hours,” she said.

“The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Medicare by delivering more fully bulk-billed healthcare, close to home.”

New high-tech CT scanner

experience: 80cm bore size with whisper drive technology offers a quieter, more comfortable experience by significantly reducing audible noise during gantry rotation; smart MAR (metal artefact reduction) delivers exceptional image clarity for patients with metal implants such as hip replacements, neuro clips, or spinal fixations; TrueFidelity™ deep learning image reconstruction enhances image sharpness and reduces noise; unlimited 1-beat, motion-free cardiac imaging enables motionfree, high-definition CTCA imaging at any heart rate; and hyperdrive scan mode offers ultra-fast scanning of up to 523.5mm per second. These features combine to deliver high-definition images with less radiation exposure to

help even the most challenging clinical cases, supporting earlier and more confident diagnosis while improving patient safety and comfort.

Specialist radiologist at Life Medical Imaging Dr Mark Cooper said scanner’s deep learning reconstruction and metal artefact reduction technology gave unmatched clarity and diagnostic confidence.

“It’s particularly transformative for complex cases such as cardiac, neurological, and postsurgical imaging, helping us deliver more accurate results, sooner,” he said.

For practitioners, the innovation provides sharper, more detailed images that enable greater diagnostic precision and faster reporting turnaround.

For patients, the experience is faster, quieter, and safer, meaning

less time in the scanner and more confidence in results.

Director of Life Medical Imaging

Jacob Wasef said the investment underscored the company’s long-term commitment to innovation and community care:

“At Life Medical Imaging, we’re passionate about bringing the very best in diagnostic imaging to the Central Coast,” he said.

“The new GE Revolution Apex Elite CT scanner allows us to offer faster, safer, and incredibly precise imaging right here at Erina.

“Patients no longer need to travel to Sydney for advanced cardiac or full-body imaging; it’s a major step forward for local healthcare.”

Find out more at lifeimaging. com.au

International Day of People with Disability on Wednesday, December 3 was welcomed by Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, in line with NSW Government’s four-year plan to build a more inclusive, accessible state.

Ms Tesch, who is Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion, said the plan would foster more disability inclusive communities and was set to improve the lives of the more than 1.5 million people with disability in NSW.

“Designed and developed alongside people with lived experience and disability advocacy organisations, the

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said the community had fought hard to secure the additional Medicare Urgent Care Clinic for the Central Coast.

“We launched a community petition several months ago calling for another Medicare Urgent Care Clinic to service our region and help take more pressure off our hospital emergency departments,” he said.

“With the Peninsula Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Umina Beach, and our new clinic in Erina, this will mean even more people will be able to access urgent care for those times when you are too sick for the GP but not sick enough for the emergency department.”

Tesch welcomes new disability plan

plan sets targets to promote the abilities and contributions of people with disability,” Ms Tesch said.

“It empowers people with disability to exercise their rights through the government’s $29M investment in the Disability Advocacy Futures Program.

“Increasing the employment of people with disability is a priority, so the plan demands more public sector employment of people with disability and backs a disability inclusive private sector through improving government procurement from disability enterprises.

“To make more government services more accessible, the

plan expands information in Easy Read, explores emerging technologies and increases opportunities for students with disability to learn at their local schools.

This plan builds on the Minns

Government’s significant achievements to date in building a more inclusive and accessible NSW, including: more than $800M invested in safe and accessible public transport; more than $5B to deliver fully accessible social

housing; and an extra 260 support classes in public schools,” Ms Tesch said.

Ms Tesch said the Government was delivering on its commitment to people with disability.

“People with disability across the state should be able to go to school in their local area, access transport, jump on a government website or find meaningful and ongoing employment when they’ve got the right skills for the job,” she said.

Disability Council NSW Chair Jane Spring said the plan built on the work delivered under the previous strategy and served as a blueprint to shift attitudes, remove physical and

digital barriers, and create meaningful opportunities for people with disability across the state.

“It aligns with Australia’s national strategy and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, sending a clear message that inclusion is not optional – it is foundational,” she said.

“As Chair, it is my privilege –and our collective responsibility – to guide and hold accountable both government and community sectors in embedding disability access as a fundamental right.”

To learn more, visit the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 20262029 website.

The new scanner will benefit both practitioners and patients

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch

From left: Peter Carr, Kirsty Till, Dr Gordon Reid, Emma McBride and Megan Yu at the Erina Fair urgent care clinic

HEALTH BRIEF

Book a free hearing test

Hearing Australia is urging Central Coast residents to take action now and book a free 15-minute adult hearing check as the festive season approaches.

With Christmas gatherings, noisy lunches and long-awaited catchups already underway, a quick hearing check can identify if you might have hearing loss and if it’s impacting you feeling connected or missing out on the moments that matter most.

Recent findings show that six in 10 Australians have a lived experience of someone with a hearing difficulty and experienced frustration and communication breakdowns as a result, highlighting that hearing loss doesn’t just affect the individual; it has ripple effects across relationships.

Partners, family and friends often feel the strain as communication becomes harder, conversations become tiring, and connection gradually slips.

Additionally, almost one in two have admitted that they do fewer social activities due to hearing loss.

To help families start the festive season on the right foot, Hearing Australia hearing centres on the Central Coast are offering free 5-minute hearing checks for adults every week. Options range from fully subsidised devices for eligible pensioners to accessible payment plans to approved applicants.

For self-funded clients purchasing a hearing device bought from Hearing Australia comes with a five-year care commitment.

To book a free 15-minute check, find your nearest Hearing Australia centre at hearing. com.au

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Woy Woy CWA was recently presented a certificate of appreciation from Woy Woy Public School acknowledging the group’s support for the school breakfast program.

Principal Sandy Knowles and Deputy Principal Blake Rosewarn handed the certificate to CWA President Margy Ure.

“We donated food and fruit every two weeks so that children would start their school day with a good breakfast,” Ms Ure said.

“With the high cost of living impacting all aspects of family life, particularly the ever increasing cost of putting food on the table, ensuring that all

Woy Woy school thanks CWA

children start their day with a healthy and nutritious breakfast can be the difference between being able to concentrate on their class work and being distracted.

“Our donation and that of others goes towards supplying breakfasts and lunches for the children who do not bring their own or not enough.

“No questions are asked and no stigma is attached to those who avail themselves of this food.

“Woy Woy Public School is one of many on the Central Coast that is impacted and is not an isolated case.

“We, as a community, need to help where we can.”

Member Margaret Tabone said CWA Woy Woy had a close connection with the school for the past four years.

“Last year the school identified an increased need for pantry items for their Breakfast Club which provides

for children who present to school without breakfast,” she said.

“CWA Woy Woy Branch has proudly been providing supplies of devon, cheese, margarine, vegemite, jam, muesli bars, and seasonal fruit on a fortnightly basis since mid2024.

“Breakfast helps give the children a good start to the day.

“It helps maintain blood glucose levels within a normal range, important for brain and body function, integral for learning and development.

“Profits from the monthly Devonshire teas held every second Sunday helps to support the cost of the pantry donations.”

First Mental Health Kids Hub opens in Tuggerah

Central Coast families now have access to free, walkin mental health support and care for their children at the Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub in Tuggerah.

The Central Coast Kids Hub was officially opened recently by Federal Member for Dobell and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Emma McBride and Minister for Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris.

The Tuggerah hub is the first of four Kids Hubs being rolled out across NSW as part of a $35.8M joint investment of $17.9M from the Australian and NSW Governments to support children’s mental health through the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

Kids Hubs provide free mental health and wellbeing services for children aged 0-12 and their families, carers and kin.

These services support children who may be experiencing mild to moderate developmental, emotional,

social or behavioural challenges.

You don’t need a diagnosis or referral to access services or support at a Kids Hub.

Mental health clinicians, allied health professionals, care navigators and peer workers at the service will tailor care to the needs of each child and family who visits.

The partnership forms part of a national initiative, with the Australian Government investing nearly $85M over four years to work with all state

and territory governments to create a national network of 17 Kids Hubs.

“The Albanese Labor Government is putting mental health at the heart of Medicare and quality care in the heart of communities like the Central Coast,” Ms McBride said.

“The Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub in Tuggerah is providing a safe and welcoming place for children and their parents, carers and kin.

“Local access to free mental health information and clinical

services together with the support of multidisciplinary teams will make sure kids on the Central Coast thrive.”

Mr Harris said the new facility would ensure young families in the region had specialised mental health care services available for their children.

“We know that early intervention is best and the new Kids Hub is a vital addition to the health services offer in Tuggerah, giving mums and dads an accessible, safe and trusted space to get care for

their child when facing mental health challenges,” Mr Harris said.

“This hub is a great example of what can be achieved through a joint investment by the Minns and Albanese Labor Governments.”

The Central Coast Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub at 2 Reliance Dr, Tuggerah, is open from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

People seeking information or support can call 4394 1799.

The official opening of the Central Coast Mental Health Kids Hub

Sandy Knowles (left) and Blake Rosewarn with Margy Ure

Matt Graham takes gold in Finland

Central Coast mogul skiing star Matt Graham has kicked off the Olympic season in extraordinary style, taking gold alongside teammate Jakara Anthony at the FIS World Cup in Ruka, Finland.

The double victory has electrified Australia’s winter sports community, with Graham, 31, describing the result as “wild” given the country’s reputation as a beach-loving nation rather than a skiing powerhouse.

“Australia is a beach nation, so how the hell does this happen?” he said after claiming the top podium spot.

For Central Coast locals, Graham’s latest triumph is another chapter in a remarkable story they have followed for more than a decade.

Coast Community News has documented his rise from a young local talent to one of the world’s most consistent mogul skiers, charting his Olympic campaigns, World Cup podiums and his resilience through injury and recovery.

Each step has strengthened his reputation as one of the region’s most quietly determined athletes.

Back home, his father Steve was awake at 3am AEST to watch the finals live.

He said he wished mainstream media understood just how extraordinary his son’s journey has been, yet he praised the Central Coast community for recognising and celebrating Matt’s achievements year after year.

“The locals have always backed him,” he said. With the Olympic qualification season now underway, Graham’s golden start signals a strong campaign ahead.

For the Central Coast, it is another proud moment from an athlete who continues to punch above his weight on the world stage.

Inspiring Lalie aims to become world number one

Lalie Conway, 14, of Terrigal, is passionate about tennis, but probably more passionate about getting more people with disabilities playing the game.

Lalie is autistic and is doing a young leadership program with Tennis Australia and as her project, she has chosen to organise a free tennis day for people of all abilities.

It will be on December 13 between 11am and 1pm at Terrigal tennis courts in Duffys Rd.

The inclusive session has been designed for people with disabilities of all ages and all levels.

There will be a barbecue on the day and a gold coin donation will go to the Special Olympics national team.

Lalie will supply all the equipment herself and is paying out of her pocket money with a generous company donating money to pay for the courts and the barbecue.

Lalie’s proud mum Nicole said her daughter, ranked number three in Australia in the women’s autistic division, aimed to prove there were people with a disability who wanted to access tennis – training, playing and good coaching.

Lalie first picked up a racquet

at the age of four and hasn’t looked back.

Despite new health issues developing this year, she continues to dominate the court and is heading to the Australian Open next year.

“She is nervous but very excited,” Nicole said.

“Lalie’s main goal is to get more disabled people into tennis and make it more accessible for people with disabilities to train and find places to hit at and have fair competitions.”

While she is busy on the tennis court playing and training, Lalie is also doing a Master’s degree with the Australian Institute of Fitness in personal training to

help people reach their fitness goals – and goes to school fulltime at Kincumber High.

Lalie is aiming to become world number one in autism and encourages as many disabled people to try and play sport and to spread the word that any dream is achievable.

Her special day is being backed by Tennis Australia and she has leaders from all leagues coming to help.

“It’s all about inclusion and fun and locals can come check it out and support them by buying a snag,” Nicole said.

No registrations necessaryjust turn up on the day.

Change of guard for Academy of Sport as founder retires

Luke Tucker has been appointed Regional Academies of Sport (RAS) General Manager –Commercial & Community.

His appointment follows the pending retirement of longserving director and founder of Central Coast Academy of Sport Ian Robilliard. Robilliard, who has played a central role in helping shape the centralised management of the RAS network while setting up the commercial foundations of the network, will conclude his tenure in mid-December.

Luke Tucker

Tucker’s appointment ensures a seamless transition as the organisation continues to strengthen its impact and brings a strong and diverse commercial

background to the position, underpinned by extensive experience across regional sport, national brands, and elite sporting organisations.

His career includes commercial and leadership roles with Central Coast Academy of Sport, Kia Motors, and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, and most recently as a consultant to both brand and rights holders across a multitude of industry sectors.

Selected from a highly competitive field, Tucker distinguished himself not only through his commercial expertise, but also through his intimate knowledge and

understanding of how regional academies operate, and the critical role they play in developing pre-elite and elite athletes across NSW and beyond.

Tucker’s appointment enhances the commercial capacity of RAS at a time of growing opportunity and demand.

“Our work in the commercial market remains critically important to the ongoing success of our network; securing someone of Luke’s calibre is a tremendous result for the RAS network,” RAS CEO Brett O’Farrell said.

“His experience, energy and understanding of the academy system position us strongly for the future.

“Luke steps into this role at a special moment for our organisation – while we celebrate his appointment, we also prepare to farewell Ian Robilliard, a leader who has always driven impact from behind the scenes.

“Ian’s influence has been profound, and Luke’s arrival ensures we continue that legacy with confidence and excitement.”

Tucker said he was excited to be rejoining the RAS network,

where he started his career in 2007 under the mentorship of Robilliard.

“To have the opportunity to contribute back to an organisation that helped shape my career is a great full circle moment, and a real-life example of how Regional Academies of Sport develop sports administrators as well as athletes, coaches, and officials,” he said.

“Brett, Ian and the team have built very strong foundations and a fantastic commercial platform that I am delighted to now lead into an exciting next phase of growth for RAS.”

Mariners men buckle as women turn up the heat

It was a challenging weekend at Central Coast’s Polytec Stadium, with extreme heat and the prevailing bushfire activity forcing late changes to both A-League fixtures.

The women’s match was shifted to Sunday evening, December 7, to avoid the worst

of the conditions, while the men’s game on Saturday, December 6, was pushed back by more than an hour.

The disruptions didn’t faze the Mariners women, who powered to a dominant 4–1 victory over the Newcastle Jets in their first F3 Derby of the season.

In front of a small home crowd, the Mariners women controlled the tempo throughout, finding plenty of energy despite the postponed start.

Their win cements their strong early-season form and adds another chapter to the

fast-growing F3 rivalry between the two clubs.

The men were less fortunate in their clash with Sydney FC. Despite creating chances and lifting late in the match, the Mariners went down 1–2 after the delayed kick-off.

The adjusted schedule and

smoke haze hovering over the region added to the challenge, but the squad battled to the end.

Attention now turns to this Friday evening, December 12, when the men host league leaders Auckland FC at Polytec Stadium in what looms as a major test.

The women hit the road to face Western Sydney, looking to carry the momentum of their derby win into another important early-season fixture. The players will be hoping for cooler conditions, clearer skies, and another strong turnout from the home faithful.

Matt Graham (centre) on the podium. Photo: FIS Freestyle

Lalie Conway

Junior golfers do us proud

The Central Coast District has emerged the winner at the 2025 Eric Apperly Regional Playoff, Golf NSW’s competition for players aged under 21, held in Mittagong on November 22-23.

The Central Coast players won 16 of their 18 matches, sealing the title with victories across all three final-round contests.

Their consistency saw them edge out Illawarra by just 1.5 points in a tight finish.

Ava Prince was a standout for the Central Coast, closing out all three of her matches before the 14th hole — an impressive effort given the cold, wet and windy conditions.

Teams from the Central Coast, Murray, Illawarra and ACT districts competed in a roundrobin format, with players handling the weather well to produce competitive matches throughout.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Powerhouse Jai retains world title

Central Coast superstar Jai Opetaia has strengthened his reputation as the most feared boxer in the world after brutally knocking out German contender Huseyin Cinkara in the eighth round of their world-title clash on Saturday night, December 6, on the Gold Coast.

Opetaia’s KO was so destructive that Cinkara was taken to hospital with a brain contusion, a small brain bleed, and a fractured C1 vertebra.

The victory marks the champion’s third world-title fight on Australian soil in just 12 months, making him the first fighter in history to bring three world-title bouts down under in a single year.

Cinkara became the fourth straight opponent to require hospital treatment after facing Opetaia.

Tasman Fighters Promoter Mick Francis says the pattern speaks for itself.

“The last four opponents of Jai have all gone to hospital in ambulances – it’s starting to become a bit of a pattern,” he said.

Even after such a violent

finish, Opetaia was typically focused on what comes next.

The southpaw reminded fans that Saturday night was part of a much bigger mission – one that leads straight back to the Coast.

“Cinkara was next – but my goal has always been to take home glory in Gosford at Polytec Stadium,” Opetaia said.

“I’ll be making that happen – tonight was the next step.”

He said nothing would ever match fighting in front of his own community.

“I’ve fought on big stages around the world, but nothing would compare to walking out

in front of my own people,” he said.

“The Central Coast deserves that moment.”

For Opetaia, the drive is deeply personal.

“I grew up here, I trained here, and the community has backed me since day one,” Opetaia said.

“A world title fight at Polytec Stadium would be historymaking.”

Saturday’s KO improved his record to 29-0 (23 KOs) –making him Australia’s only undefeated world champion, and a man whose power is beginning to intimidate the global division.

Francis said even when Opetaia is dominant, he still criticises himself.

“He puts a lot of pressure on himself because he wants to deliver for his fans,” Francis said.

“He came from nothing and now he’s one of the best fighters in the world.”

Francis also revealed how close Cinkara came to scoring a shocking upset early.

“He got a good shot in that second round and that shot would’ve knocked down a horse,” Francis said.

“Jai just stood his ground and it woke him up.”

With attention now turning to

March, April or May.

“If Mikaelian wins, he’s happy to go straight into Jai,” Francis said.

“They want the fight and they’re realistic.”

For the cruiserweight division, the warning is unmistakable.

Jai Opetaia didn’t just win –he sent a message and the world is finally starting to fear the boy from the Central Coast with a big dream for global dominance.

the Noel Mikaelian vs Badou Jack fight in Los Angeles, Opetaia’s next world-title defence could come as soon as

Skaie Hull

Jai Opetaia in action on Saturday night Photo: Getty; Jai Opetaia after the fight Photo: Getty

Elite cricketers headed for Coast

Australia’s brightest emerging female cricketers will take centre stage across the Central Coast, Newcastle and Hunter region when the Cricket Australia Under-19 Female National Championships take place from December 15-22.

The tournament will bring together nine teams competing across eight premier venues, with Newcastle to host the championship final.

Each side will contest six round matches – four T20s and two one-day fixtures.

Teams competing will be ACT, NSW Country, NSW Metro, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, VIC Country, VIC Metro and Western Australia.

This diverse and passionate cricket region has long been a nursery for elite women’s talent, boasting icons such as Belinda Clark and Leah Poulton, WBBL Thunder title-winner Samantha Bates, and rising NSW and Sixers star Caoimhe Bray.

Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon said it was a privilege to welcome Australia’s emerging female talent to a region that

had produced some of the greats of our game.

“We’re grateful for the efforts and commitment of volunteers, officials and our local cricket communities who make events like the U19 Female National Championships possible,”

Germon said.

“To the players, congratulations on your selection.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your game, compete with spirit and enjoy representing your state.”

All matches of the National U19 Female Championships

Jodie excels at nationals

Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club member Jodie Mead represented Australia as part of its youth team at the recent 2025 International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC) held in New Zealand.

The Youth Life Saving Australia team, of which Mead was a member, came first in the beach relay and mixed surf events and secured a second place in the rescue tube rescue event and fourth in the surf race mixed event.

Overall, Australia placed second at the event.

Mead also braved challenging conditions to come third in the surf race; other races were cut short due to the conditions.

will be live streamed via FrogBox, with coverage accessible through the PlayCricket app (under ‘Cricket

Australia State Competitions’) and the Cricket Australia YouTube channel.

10 JANUARY 2026

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Gates open at 11am

Meanwhile OBSLSC and member Louise Lambeth have featured in a video as part of Surf Life Saving NSW’s Big Beach Week, which was held from December 1-4.

that can be shared with students in the lead up to the Christmas holidays.

The program provides a teacher guide and resources

The information is also valuable for the general public at beachsafetyhub.org.au/ teaching-resources

The 2024/25 NSW Metropolitan Team, current reigning champions

Full fixtures and the competition ladder are available online and through the PlayCricket app.

Jodie Mead in action at the Challenge