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New Blue Lagoon stairs officially opened

EDITION #550 THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 2026

SEE PAGE 10

Out&About

P13 Celebrating the jazz classics

Business

P4 Community members gathered for the official opening of the new Blue Lagoon Reserve stairs

Hundreds rally to oppose Kariong rezone The community came out in force on Sunday, August 23, to show its opposition to a proposed housing development in bushland zoned for conservation at 300 Woy Woy Rd, Kariong. Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) plans to build 50 houses on an area zoned C2 Environmental Protection due to the endangered wetlands, the presence of cultural heritage on and around the site, and that the site is habitat for many threatened species including the critically endangered Swift Parrot. The community gathering at

Lisa Bellamy addresses the crowd

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Bambara Rd was led by Traditional Custodians Aunty Tracey Howie and Renee Sales, with locals participating in a traditional smoking ceremony. Coast Environmental Alliance spokesperson Jake Cassar said hundreds of people attended over the duration of the three-hour event, with about a dozen guest speakers including local conservationists, elders and members of the Aboriginal community. Guest speaker Ursula Da Silva, said the proposed 50 houses might not seem like a substantial amount.

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CONTRIBUTIONS TO CCN Coast Community News (CCN) encourages ‘community journalism’, including story leads, citizen reports, media releases, photos and letters to the Editor (forum). We reserve the right to use, or not use, any material sent to us for publication and to validate, amend, update, expand or reduce the information provided at our sole discretion and in accordance with our editorial guidelines. Material that is considered offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.

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Knife crime, policing and responsibility The death of a 22-year-old man following a stabbing in Gosford three weeks ago, and last week’s serious stabbing of a 15-year-old boy in Terrigal, have brought the consequences of knife carrying painfully close to home. Both matters are now before the courts, and guilt must not be assumed – though the issue demands an urgent response. A knife carried for protection, intimidation or status can turn a fleeting confrontation into an irreversible tragedy. Young people need to hear that message clearly – at

EDITORIAL home, at school, from community leaders and across the online spaces they inhabit. Social media companies cannot be allowed to dismiss this as somebody else’s problem. Their algorithms amplify violent imagery, antisocial behaviour and weapon culture because outrage generates engagement. Those profiting from young people’s attention must be held accountable for the consequences. NSW Police have recently

gained expanded powers to use handheld metal-detecting wands, but restrictions remain on where and when they can be deployed. Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch has advocated “anywhere, anytime” wanding powers, allowing officers to scan people in public without first establishing a designated zone. In light of recent events, that proposal seems entirely reasonable. Wanding is quick and noninvasive. It is fundamentally different from the contentious stripsearch powers that have led to unnecessary and

humiliating invasions of privacy. Sensible safeguards and oversight should remain, but police should not be hampered by cumbersome procedures when trying to remove knives from our streets. Greater powers alone will not dismantle this culture. Families, schools, youth services, platforms and governments all have a part to play. But local police should have the tools to intervene before a knife is drawn, a life is lost, and another family is left asking how an argument became a tragedy. David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Donate an object and share its story Fairhaven Services has launched Central Coast Stories, a new community project inviting locals to donate an object with a Central Coast connection, and share the story behind it, as part of the revamp of the antiques department at its Op Shopping Village in Point Clare. The idea is simple. Donate an object that carries a Central Coast story, tell Fairhaven the history behind it, and the two will be displayed together: the teapot from a grandmother’s kitchen in Woy Woy; the fishing reel that came out every Summer at Terrigal; the vase from the windowsill of a first home in Umina. Each donated piece will be displayed alongside its story and offered for sale, so someone new can take home both the object and the history that comes with it.

Proceeds will support Central Coast people living with disability. “Every object has a story, and we want to hear yours,” Retail Manager at Fairhaven Hannah Atkin said. “The Central Coast is full of quiet histories sitting on windowsills and in kitchen cupboards. “This project gives those objects and the people they belonged to a moment to be seen, and it turns that history into direct support for people living with disability in our community.” Donating is straightforward: bring an item to the Op Shopping Village at 209 Brisbane Water Dr, Point Clare, and leave your contact details. The Fairhaven team will be in touch to collect the story behind it.

Fairhaven Op Shopping Village supported employee Jade

GOSFORD 5 DAY FORECAST

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Helicopter Patrols Livestock Warning

We’re conducting helicopter patrols as planned maintenance for continuing reliability and safety across your local electricity network. The helicopter will be in the air during daylight hours (weather permitting) and often flying at low altitude, which can startle livestock. Property owners may want to secure livestock during the patrols.

Flights are scheduled to fly over rural and bushland areas from Tuesday, 1st September to Monday, 7th September (excluding Saturday and Sunday) in the following suburbs: Mooney Mooney Creek, Mount White, Mooney Mooney, Bar Point, Cheero Point, Somersby, Calga, Ourimbah, Kangy Angy, Tuggerah, Mardi, Alison, Jilliby, Mannering Park, Narara, West Gosford, Berkeley Vale, and Fountaindale. For more information, including detailed flight plans, please phone Scott Wedesweiler on 0417 683 102.

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Call for stronger knife controls

NEWS IN BRIEF

Uni open day Member for Terrigal Adam University of Newcastle’s new Gosford Central will host its first Central Coast Open Day from 10am-2pm on Saturday, August 29. The day will showcase the new learning facilities and the expanded offering of degrees made available to those on the Central Coast. The day will activate both the Gosford campus and Ourimbah, with guided tours of the new state-of-the-art facilities, info sessions running throughout the day, live student performances, creatives and an all-day expo at Gosford Central. Hundreds of prospective students are expected to attend.

Join activists The Central Coast Activists will meet from 11.30am1pm on Wednesday, September, 2, at the Ourimbah RSL Club and all are welcome. Guest speaker will be Richard Weller, who will outline his passion for the environment and the impact of climate change.

Justices meet

The next meeting of the New South Wales Justices Association Central Coast Branch will be held on 43 Thursday, September 3. The meeting will begin at ber you through shared Bayside View room ns and 2pm acts inofthe kindness of the Central Coast Leagues hout your lifetime. Club. Free Justice of the Peace (JP) ces orservices in thearecomfort available across the Central Coast. resentatives. Details at nswja.org.au

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Crouch has renewed his calls for stronger knife wanding powers for NSW Police following a recent serious incident at Terrigal involving a knife attack. Mr Crouch said the latest incident was deeply concerning and came amid an alarming number of knife-related incidents across the region and statewide. “Unfortunately, the serious knife incident in Terrigal is a stark reminder of why our

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch

community is so concerned about this issue,” he said.

“It’s particularly alarming that some people view carrying a knife in public is somehow normal, acceptable or necessary. “We need to send a very clear message that carrying a knife does not make you safer and has no place in our community.” Mr Crouch said earlier this month, the NSW Liberals proposed legislation which would have allowed police to conduct knife wanding operations anywhere, anytime, by removing the requirement

for a formal declaration before an operation could commence. The proposed changes would have retained existing safeguards, including requirements for police to identify themselves and explain the search. Mr Crouch said recent incidents reinforced the need for the Labor Government to listen to the community and support stronger knife wanding laws. “We know these powers work, with a recent knife

wanding operation in Gosford resulting in police seizing several large knives,” he said. “We’ve put forward a commonsense solution to give police greater flexibility to use these powers, yet the government refuses to back stronger powers to protect our community. “The government needs to listen to our police and listen to our community and give officers the practical powers they need to help keep people safe.”

Hundreds rally to oppose Kariong rezone From page 1 “(But) the flow-on effect of having rubbish, pollution, weeds, cats and dogs accessing the reserve, graffiti and potential vandalism to the cultural sites, will seriously impact the surrounding National Park forever,” she said. “The Central Coast’s environment is being chipped away piece by piece; meaning that if we don’t do something, it could eventually be left unrecognisable from the place we all know and love. “An option could be to end house hoarding as seen with the thousands of empty houses currently sitting on the Central Coast. “We certainly care about providing affordable housing, it just needs to be done in the right places where the impacts on our environment won’t be so devastating and irreversible.” Kariong Progress Association President Lisa Bellamy was also a guest speaker. “All we are asking is for the government to abide by the

Hundreds of people turned up to oppose the development

laws (it) created to protect our most vulnerable wild places and to not offer special concessions to private developers,” she said. “We’ve had absolutely no support from our State Labor Member Liesl Tesch on this matter, and we are hoping the community will remember this at the State election next year. “I plan on taking this to the State election again next year

by running as an Independent for the seat of Gosford. “When the elected leaders stop listening to the public, the public must step up and become leaders.” Mr Cassar said residents had been advised that a decision on the rezoning which was needed to make way for the housing would likely be made at the end of September.

“We decided to bring the community together in solidarity to show that we are still here fighting for a fair go for our wildlife and irreplaceable cultural heritage,” he said. “We believe the cards have been well and truly stacked against us from the start, with it likely being decided long ago that Land Councils across NSW will have a separate set of rules applying to them when it comes

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THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 2026

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New Blue Lagoon stairs officially opened Almost three years to the day after Central Coast Council demolished access stairs to Blue Lagoon Reserve at Bateau Bay, new stairs were officially opened on Friday, August 14, in front of community members and Central Coast councillors and staff. The event followed a hardfought battle headed up by community group Save Our Stairs (SOS) led by Bateau Bay resident Judy Townsend backed up by a strong committee. The finished project has restored safe access from Bateau Bay Rd to the reserve and to popular Blue Lagoon beach. The total project cost was $650,000, made possible with $245,000 from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund in partnership with Central Coast Council. Member for The Entrance David Mehan, who supported the community group’s effort to

Mayor Lawrie McKinna with Member for the Entrance David Mehan and councillors officially opened the new Blue Lagoon beach access stairs with SOS community members

get the stairs reinstated and facilitated the State Government grant, said he was pleased to see the important community project to restore safe access to the reserve and beach was completed. “This outcome could not have been achieved without the

advocacy of the Save Our Stairs Committee and funding via the Minns Labor Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of government investing in local infrastructure and delivering

durable and practical outcomes for our community.” SOS member Lee Mowbray recalled how council made the decision to demolish the stairs three years ago with no public consultation. “The community was dismayed that their public

space was suddenly no longer accessible,” she said. “Judy Townsend rallied the Bateau Bay community and the Save Our Stairs group was formed, jumping into action with emails, phone calls, and a petition.” Within weeks, the petition had over 1600 signatures and a large collection of photos and stories as evidence of how the space was treasured by the local community. “Following SOS’s successful campaign, Council agreed to apply for a State Government grant for funding to go towards constructing new access stairs,” Ms Mowbray said. The toilet block on the reserve has also been refreshed with minor repairs and paint surrounded by new turf and some landscaping for slopes and dunes. Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the completed Blue Lagoon beach access works was a win for the local community. “It’s fantastic to see the two

sets of stairs at Blue Lagoon Beach restored,” Councillor McKinna said. “Blue Lagoon Beach is a special place for so many people. “This project is all about reconnecting our community with one of our most loved beaches and making sure it remains accessible into the future. “I’d like to thank the NSW Government for its support through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. “This funding partnership has helped deliver a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone who enjoys this beautiful part of the Central Coast.” The stairs have been constructed from durable materials including concrete, fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) and stainless steel, and have been built to withstand erosion and severe weather events to ensure this beach access is able to be used for many years to come.

Coast beaches miss out on drone surveillance NSW Liberals and Nationals have criticised the State Government’s expanded $34M drone scheme for delivering scheduled monitoring at just four Central Coast locations, all of which already had regular monitoring in previous drone schedules. They say this means that 40 beaches across the region have missed out including Terrigal, Wamberal, North Avoca, Copacabana, MacMasters Beach, Umina, Soldiers Beach, Shelly Beach, Toowoon Bay and Budgewoi.

Shadow Minister for the Central Coast Jacqui Munro condemned the selective nature of the program. “The Government must explain to the people of the Central Coast why two thirds of their coastline won’t be covered under the new drones program,” Ms Munro said. “Locals and almost six million visitors each year enjoy more than 40 beautiful beaches across the Central Coast, yet the Government has forgotten about the region when it comes to this important shark safety measure.

“The Central Coast boasts two national parks in the top 10 most visited national parks across the state. “Because of the Government’s decision to leave the region out of an expanded shark drone surveillance schedule, visitors are not as safe in the water as they could be.” Central Coast Councillor Jarrod Wright said the community rightly expected a wider rollout of this program across the region’s beaches. “While the operating hours of the shark drone surveillance

have increased at beaches which have an existing program, no new beaches have been included as part of the NSW Budget announcement,” Cr Wright said. “Having spoken to local stakeholders and beachgoers, it is clear that Terrigal Beach in particular needs shark drone surveillance. “The additional funding is going towards increasing coverage over Winter and yet it doesn’t include our busiest beach for recreational swimming outside of the beach season.”

Terrigal Beach has missed out on drone surveillance

Improvements on the way for Avoca Dr roundabout

Adam Crouch and President of the 3 Villages Community Group Taia Sansom at the Davistown Rd roundabout

Traffic improvements are on the way at the Avoca Dr and Davistown Rd roundabout, following a successful campaign from the 3 Villages Community Group and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch. Mr Crouch welcomed news that Transport for NSW will make changes to line marking and permitted traffic movements on Davistown Rd to increase capacity for motorists approaching Avoca Dr. The changes will see the existing right-turn lane converted into a lane allowing motorists to turn either left or right, while the existing left lane will remain left-turn only.

This will provide two lanes for motorists turning left onto Avoca Dr towards Gosford and Erina, helping more vehicles move through the intersection during busy periods. “This intersection has been a daily frustration for thousands of residents, with traffic regularly backing up along Davistown Rd during the morning peak hour,” Mr Crouch said. “Davistown Rd is the only way in and out for the residents of Davistown, Saratoga and Yattalunga, so when traffic banks up at this roundabout there simply isn’t another option to get out of the area. “After raising this issue with the Minister for Transport and

in State Parliament, we’ve been able to secure a sensible change to get more vehicles through the roundabout and reduce queues on Davistown Rd. “I want to thank the 3 Villages Community Group and local residents who have continued to advocate for action on this traffic problem.” President of the 3 Villages Community Group Taia Sansom said the changes were a welcome step towards improving journeys for residents. “The school term morning traffic at this intersection has significantly and consistently impacted everyone in the three

villages community,” Sansom said.

“We have advocated strongly for a solution to improve traffic flow, so we are pleased to see action being taken thanks to our advocacy. “We look forward to seeing how these changes operate once they are in place and will continue to advocate for a long-term solution to improve traffic flow across our community.” Transport for NSW is expected to carry out the line-marking works over two nights in coming weeks, weather permitting.

THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 2026

EDITION #550 - PAGE 5

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Shark net threat to Terrigal’s resident seal The Animal Justice Party says Terrigal’s new resident seal could face real danger with shark nets set to be installed at 11 Central Coast beaches on September 1. For the past month, the adolescent seal has been resting at Terrigal Beach and regularly heading out to sea at night to feed before returning to the sand. “People have really fallen in love with the seal, known by some as Terri,” the Party’s candidate for Terrigal Simone Cooper said. “The seal has become a bit of a local celebrity, and volunteers have been keeping a careful eye on him and making sure people give him the space he needs.” And it’s not just seals that are at risk, she said. During the 2024/25 season, 223 marine animals were caught in NSW shark nets. Of those, 89% were nontarget animals, and 22% were

The adolescent seal has been a regular visitor to Terrigal since July

threatened or protected species. “Shark nets don’t just catch sharks,” Ms Cooper said. “They catch seals, turtles, dolphins and other marine

animals, including threatened species. “We already know that fur seals have been caught and killed in nets on the Central Coast.”

Last year, the NSW Government proposed a trial allowing one shark net to be removed from each of the Central Coast, Northern Beaches and Waverley areas,

but the trial was abandoned following a fatal shark incident in Sydney. “That death was an absolute tragedy, and we need to do everything we can to prevent further tragedies occurring, but putting more shark nets in the water isn’t the answer,” Ms Cooper said. “Modern shark-spotting drones enable experts to detect sharks and warn people in the water when a shark is sighted, allowing people time to leave the water when sharks are around. “No nets should be going back out this year. “They are outdated and indiscriminately kill our marine life.” Ms Cooper said the NSW Government recently invested $34M to expand shark-spotting drone surveillance, including increased year-round protection at all Sydney beaches. “At the very least, the Government should reinstate

the trial offered last year, and Terrigal should be first on the list,” she said. “Terri shouldn’t have to pay the price for an outdated shark management system. “If we have the technology to spot sharks without putting marine animals in nets, why wouldn’t we use it? “ Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst, who has been campaigning for the removal of shark nets since entering NSW Parliament eight years ago, said that for decades successive NSW Governments had relied on outdated and ineffective shark nets from the 1930s, and had failed to invest in modern technologies to keep beachgoers safe. “To genuinely keep beachgoers safe, the NSW Government must further invest in non-lethal alternatives and stop using old, outdated methods that don’t work and put the lives of animals like Terri at risk,” she said.

Concern over future of Blackbutt trees Residents are concerned about the future of two large, healthy Blackbutt trees on the verge in Sycamore Ave at Bateau Bay. While Central Coast Council has given assurances that there are no plans to cut the trees down, confusion arose recently when one resident was informed by a Council representative that the trees would be felled the next day to enable works to be undertaken on a broken water main. Residents were alarmed, with critically endangered Swift Parrots often observed foraging in the trees. “Blackbutts provide crucial Winter flowering and lerp resources that these migratory birds rely on for survival,”

resident Heather McCubben said. “(Any) planned removal directly contradicts the Council’s own public exhibition of the Draft Swift Parrot Species Management Plan, which explicitly states that impacts on the species’ habitat must be avoided or mitigated. “The SMP outlines the approach that Council must take in relation to the assessment of planning proposals, local development and Council works to avoid, minimise and mitigate impacts to the swift parrot.” She said residents were demanding Council evaluate non-destructive engineering alternatives to protect the active habitat. Ms McCubben said there

were further concerns that the pipes Council was trying to access were of ageing asbestos cement infrastructure. “I have received correspondence from the Council stating that there is no order at this time to cut down the trees,” she said. “Our main concern is that considering they were willing to push this through so quickly (initially), they will do it again.” A Council spokesperson confirmed that a break occurred on the water main servicing the location in Sycamore Ave. “The break was isolated by Water and Sewer crews, with a temporary water main currently in place while longer-term repairs are assessed,” the spokesperson said.

“Preliminary investigations indicate there have been approximately four to five previous water main failures in this location, with tree root intrusion identified as a contributing factor. “The tree’s root system is also impacting surrounding infrastructure. “At this stage, Council officers are reviewing options for the replacement of the main while considering asset, environmental and infrastructure implications before determining any future course of action. “Council can confirm that no tree removal works are currently in place or approved to proceed.”

The trees are a popular haunt for Swift Parrots

Just what can be recycled?

Residents are often confused about what can go in the recycling bin

If you have ever stood over your recycling bin wondering “can this go in?” you are not alone. Pearl Beach residents will have the opportunity to get some answers when Kristina Arthur from 1Coast presents a practical community education session on recycling at the Pearl Beach Memorial Community Hall from 4pm5pm on Saturday, September 5.

The session will focus particularly on paper and plastic, providing residents with a better understanding of what can be recycled, what cannot, and what happens to recycling once it leaves the kerb. Ms Arthur will explain how valuable materials are recovered and reused, how the recycling process works, and the simple things householders can do to reduce waste and

pollution and keep resources circulating rather than ending up in landfill. There will also be plenty of opportunity to ask questions about those tricky items that leave you standing in front of the recycling bin wondering which way to go. Got something at home that you’re never quite sure about? Bring it along and Ms Arthur will explain which bin it belongs

in, how it is processed and what it could potentially become. The free community session is a great opportunity for Pearl Beach residents to learn more about recycling, avoid common mistakes and discover how small changes at home can make a genuine difference. Can I Recycle This? will be held at the Pearl Beach Memorial Community Hall and everyone is welcome.

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PAGE 8 - EDITION #550

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Understanding nesting plovers With magpie and plover nesting season upon us, one Central Coast woman has made it her mission to educate the public about exactly what plovers are, their behaviour, how they protect their young, and that no one needs to be afraid of them. The woman, who would prefer not be named, said it’s a myth that plovers (masked lapwings) swoop and strike and try to peck your eyes out. “I grew up believing that but I have since found out that it is not the case,” she said, “They are just protecting their eggs and babies as any good parent would.” Growing up with a love of the local wildlife, her interest in plovers grew after she watched a pair of plovers successfully raise their chicks in the grassed area in her street.

There are many nesting plovers on the Central Coast right now

“My interest really sparked a few years ago when a pair nested in my street and I saw how misunderstood they were by passers-by,” she said. “I became fascinated by their resilience.”

With nesting season here, the woman wants to raise awareness about plovers and how they protect their babies. “There are plovers nesting and young babies visible all

over the Central Coast right now,” she said. “Because they lay their eggs in open, low-vegetation ground areas, like lawns, roundabouts, and sports fields, they are

incredibly vulnerable to foot traffic, cars, and domestic pets. “Crucially, many residents do not know that plovers are a protected native species. “It is illegal to harm, harass, or relocate adult plovers, their babies, or their nests. “Any illegal interference or acts of cruelty can result in severe criminal convictions and hefty court-imposed fines.” She said some common misconceptions included the myth that plovers have venomous or dangerous spurs on their wings that they use to attack people. “The fact is that while they do have yellow spurs, they are used for defending territory against other animals,” she said. “They rarely make contact with humans; their swooping is

entirely a bluff to scare people away from their young.” Another myth is that plovers are aggressive birds looking for a fight. “The fact is plovers are fiercely protective parents and only swoop for a few weeks of the year when they have eggs on the ground or young chicks to protect,” she said. Another myth is they nest in dangerous places like the middle of roundabouts on purpose – the fact is plovers evolved to lay eggs in wideopen areas so they can spot predators coming from a distance. “Human development has simply replaced their natural grasslands with urban lawns,” she said. “I think it is very important that we get this information out into the community.”

Join Scouts to build confidence, skills and resilience As concerns about children’s screen time continue to grow, Scouts NSW says it’s crucial for families to turn to outdoor, screen-free activities to help children build confidence, resilience and social skills. According to Scouts NSW Chief Commissioner Bel Howell, parents are increasingly concerned that too much time on devices is affecting children’s confidence, communication skills and ability to form meaningful relationships. “Confidence can be taught, but it’s not a natural feeling for pre-teen,” she said. “Resilience comes with trying, failing, learning and trying again and being supported along the way. “Scouts is a safe place to fail and an exciting place to learn.” Cub Scouts is increasingly becoming part of the solution, offering children opportunities

to spend time outdoors, make friends and develop resilience through adventure, teamwork and hands-on activities. On the Central Coast, there are 20 scout groups with 707 members including members and volunteers. The largest groups are 1st Gosford Scout Group with 101 members, 1st Woy Woy Scout Group with 86 members and 1st Kanwal Scout Group with 63 members. Twins Serene White and Jasmine Davar are both Gosford District Leaders (Special Projects). “Currently I hold two roles in Scouting; my first is Gosford District Leader for Special Projects, where I work alongside my sister to run whole Gosford District events, such as our annual Founders Day event,” Jasmine said. “My second role is the Leader-in-Charge of creating our newest Scout Group in the

Serene White and twin sister Jasmine Davar say joining Scouts was the best decision of their life

region, the Kariong Mountains Scout Group.” She and Serene both joined in 2011 after a high school friend invited them along one night. “I went along to trial, and never looked back,” Jasmine said. She said she noticed

incredible changes in her confidence, resilience and independence after joining Scouts. “When I started, I was a shy reserved teenager, who struggled even getting in front of the class to do a speech,” she said. Now she runs her own Scout

group and manages a largescale production nursery. “Scouts are active – you’re hiking, learning practical skills, playing games, and often finding yourself outdoors,” she said. “Scouts are social; face-toface, you’re making new friends. “You’re usually too busy to stop and scroll on your phone. “Joining Scouts will be the best decision you ever make in your life. “It will give you great purpose, direction and friends for life.” Sister Serene agreed. “I’ve grown immensely in confidence, resilience and independence,” she said. “In particular I’ve had the opportunity to develop my leadership skills in all different scenarios, even overseas in Africa. “One highlight of my personal growth in Scouting was working towards my BadenPowell Scout Award which is

the peak award for Rover Scouts. “This award involved a lot of effort to achieve and I got to build on my outdoor skills, event organisation, community engagement and more. “Scouts gives you so many opportunities you could never dream of doing elsewhere. “It gets people out and about and meeting like-minded people all around the world. “I’ve made friends in Kenya, Canada, New Zealand and more. “Although Scouts has adapted to utilise technology in their program you still get to do fun activities from a range of things such as arts, sports, camping, and cooking. “Scouts has absolutely changed my life for the better. “Even being an adult in Scouting is great as you still get to do training as well as fun activities, whilst also giving priceless opportunities to the next generation.”

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Celebration of our South Asian community Sydney Bollywood will perform on the day

Colour, music, dance, food and celebration will fill Gosford’s William Street Plaza on Sunday, September 6, as Monsoon Mela transforms the city centre into a vibrant outdoor experience celebrating the rich cultures, traditions and creative talents of the Central Coast’s growing South Asian community. Presented by Fun Haus Factory and supported by Central Coast Council through the NSW Government Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government Program, the free community event invites people of all ages and backgrounds to gather, connect and experience a day of live entertainment, cultural discovery and family-friendly fun.

Inspired by the energy and abundance of the monsoon season, Monsoon Mela is a celebration of belonging, diversity and cultural exchange, creating opportunities for people to share stories, discover new traditions and connect with neighbours through music, food and creativity. The festival comes at a time when the Central Coast’s South Asian community continues to grow, particularly across Gosford, North Gosford, Wyoming, Narara and Wyong. Monsoon Mela celebrates the cultural richness these communities bring to the region while creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to come together in a spirit of friendship, understanding and connection.

At the centre of the festival is a dynamic program of live music, dance and cultural performances headlined by special guest Aadesh Poudel, the acclaimed Nepali singersongwriter and former Nepal Idol contestant. Known for his powerful vocals and heartfelt performances, Poudel has built a devoted following in both Nepal and Australia and will perform with his band for what promises to be a memorable afternoon of music. Audiences will also experience the distinctive sounds of Project Beyond, an Australia-based collective of international musicians whose work blends Nepali folk traditions, Hindustani classical music and contemporary rock. The festival will also

showcase acclaimed sitarist and educator Rishta Dyall, who brings more than a decade of experience in Hindustani classical music to the event. Adding to the festival atmosphere will be VBM’s 3-Piece Live Bollywood Band, bringing an energetic mix of Bollywood, Punjabi, Sufi and contemporary Indian favourites to the stage. Dance will play a major role throughout the day, with performances from Sydney Bollywood, one of Australia’s leading Bollywood dance companies. Celebrated for its inclusive approach and vibrant performances, the company will also host a free Mini Bollywood Dance Class from 2.30pm-3pm at the Fun Haus Factory, giving festivalgoers

New venue for Show ‘n’ Shine Day After 19 years, this year’s Chrysler Wake Run’s Show ‘n’ Shine Day has a new venue and will be held at Norah Head Sporties Club on August 30 from 8am to 12.30pm. Hosted by the Hunter Valley Chrysler Club, the show features Chryslers, Valiants, Dodges, Plymouths, DeSotos and Hillman badged vehicles. It costs $20 to enter a car or free for those just coming for a look. There will be raffles, a coffee truck and a barbecue breakfast cooked by Special Olympics Central Coast who will also be selling cold drinks.

the chance to learn some moves, join in the fun and experience the joy of Bollywood dance firsthand. Local artist, choreographer and founder of Rhythmic Soul Dance Academy, Solanki Das, will also present a special dance showcase inspired by both traditional Indian and contemporary dance practices. Visitors can also experience the beauty of traditional South Asian body art, with a henna artist offering henna designs from 1pm-3pm.

Combined with South Asian street food, children’s activities, live entertainment and cultural experiences throughout the afternoon, Monsoon Mela promises a rich and immersive celebration for the whole family. Monsoon Mela: A Celebration of South Asian Culture, Creativity and Community will take place from noon-5pm on September 6 in the William Street Plaza in Gosford.

STARRING

NONI HAZLEHURST ‘...a masterclass in the power of theatre.’ - scenestr

WED 9 SEP 2PM & 8PM SCAN QR FOR MORE INFO

A variety of vehicles will be on show

DJ Marty will be the MC and lunch can be purchased at the Lighthouse Restaurant inside the club from midday. The event will raise money for

Special Olympics Central Coast to assist in sending their chosen athletes to the national games held later this year. For more information call

Julie on 0409 454 734 or Graham on 0409 583 680. Online entries at www.HVCC. org.au

www.thearthousewyong.com.au Box Office: 4335 1485

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THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 2026

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Lots happening at the FunHaus Music lovers, Beatles fans and curious audiences are invited to the opening night launch of Every Beatles Beat, a world-first cinemascale audiovisual installation by celebrated drummer and producer Luke Herbert, at Gosford’s FunHaus Factory on September 2. The show takes audiences on a sonic pilgrimage through the complete Beatles studio catalogue. A continuous film presents a performance excerpt of every Beatles studio recording in strict chronological order, bringing the band’s extraordinary musical evolution to life from behind the drum kit through the perspective of Ringo Starr, performed by Herbert. The launch celebration will feature special guests Murray Cook, the original Red Wiggle, and Lizzie Mack of Mack & Cook, performing some of their favourite Beatles songs live alongside the exhibition opening. Guests will also hear directly from Herbert during an artist talk and Q&A exploring the remarkable two-year journey behind the work. Herbert has spent more than

Toastmasters workshop Galaxy Speakers Toastmasters Club will hold a workshop on September 1. The two-hour Speak with Confidence workshop will be held at 6.45pm at Gosford RSL Club. Become the speaker you’ve always wanted to be and learn to speak with confidence and develop leadership skills. Luke Herbert

two decades performing and recording with artists including Paul Kelly, Kasey Chambers, William Crighton, Brian Cadd, Stevie Wright and Murray Cook’s Murray & The Movers. A respected educator on the Central Coast, he teaches at Music Works Erina and through school band programs with the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music, sharing his passion for drumming with the next generation of musicians. Beyond the music, Every Beatles Beat features rare archival photography by renowned Australian rock photographer Phillip Morris. Woven through the installation

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

FRI 28 AUG

Friends of the ABC Central Coast: Remembering James Valentine and Learning about Voluntary Assisted Dying: Elanora Hotel, East Gosford 11am

SAT 29 AUG Central Coast Wetlands Forum: Gosford Library 9.30am

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Hardys Archies Awards Night With Joint Pain: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

Jasmine Sparkes and her band

is a deeply personal story of four generations of Beatles fans in one family, reflecting the enduring power of the band’s music to connect people across time, place and memory. Presented as part of From Gosford with Love, the Every Beatles Beat exhibition launch will take place from 5.30pm7.30pm on Wednesday, September 2. The exhibition will continue until September 25 during Fun Haus Factory opening hours. Register for opening night by searching ‘art exhibition’ (location Central Coast) at events.humanitix.com

Then, fresh from Tamworth success and set to deliver a full-scale Nashville-style party, Jasmine Sparkes and her band will be at the FunHaus on September 4. The Central Coast singersongwriter is quickly establishing herself as one of the region’s most exciting country music talents. or one special night, the Fun Haus Factory will transform into a Nashville-style honkytonk, bringing together live music, country glamour and dance floor energy in a celebration of everything audiences love about country music.

Sparkes has been performing since childhood. Her upcoming EP, Sparkes Road, follows a string of successful singles including Country to Coast, 6 Dinners, Sparkes Road, and You’ve Got Time to Kiss Me, which have attracted radio support and helped build a growing fan base across Australia. At High Heel Honky Tonk Night audiences can expect an evening of modern country hits, timeless favourites, singalong anthems and bootscootin’ classics delivered by Sparkes and her full band. Book at funhausfactory.org. au

Pearl Jam + Powderfinger Tribute!: Ourimbah-Lisarow RSL Club 8pm

Gerard Masters: Avoca Beach Hotel 1pm

FREE MAHJONG CLASSES: CENTRAL COAST LEAGUES CLUB 10-12PM rmsawtell@gmail.com

Tourmaline: The Ary, Toukley 8pm

SUN 30 AUG

Gia Darcy: Avoca Beach Hotel 6pm

STAR 104.5 - LADIES DAY: WYONG RACE CLUB 11:30AM

New Noise Underground Wrestling: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 7pm

Chrysler Wake Run 2026: Shine ‘n’ Show: Norah Head Sporties Club 8am

Ash Morse - Nowhere Land: Avoca Beach Theatre 7:30pm

Ethan Beckton: Diggers The Entrance, Bateau Bay 12:30pm

Ourimbah Brickfest: Ourimbah Public School 10am Coast Swap - Community Clothes Swap: San Remo Neighbourhood Centre 11am The Older Women’s Network Soup Kitchen Lunch: Ettalong 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre 11.30am John’s Last Hurrah!!: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 7pm Room On The Broom: Laycock Street Community Theatre, Wyoming 12pm

HAVE AN EVENT YOU WANT LISTED? Find out how, by visiting coastcommunitynews.com.au/whats-on While we strive for accuracy, please check with organisers for details. * Various times and/or dates. See the venue’s website for more details.

Mirrabooka: Hardys Bay Club 1pm Michelle Murrell: Gwandalan Bowling Club 1:30pm Joeys Coop Arvo: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 2pm Bravewords Live at the Funhaus: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 5pm Buddy’s Back! The Buddy Holly Show: The Art House 2pm

MON 31 AUG Classes: Intro to Latin Dance! / Line Dancing! (August/Sept Edition): FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm / 8pm

TUE 1 SEP James Morrison Quintet featuring Patrick Bartley (Direct from the USA): Avoca Beach Theatre 7.30pm Galaxy Speakers Toastmasters ClubWorkshop: Gosford RSL Club 6:45pm

WED 2 SEP

Flower Stem Holder Workshop: Gosford Regional Library 10.30am Storyquest: Connection To Country: Umina Beach Library 11.30am Young Writers Club: Tuggerah Library 4pm Art Exhibition Launch: Every Beatles Beat: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 5.30pm Meditation For Beginners: Gosford Regional Library 6.30pm

THU 3 SEP Words on the Waves Festival presents Late Night Lit: Bar Toto, Ettalong 7pm Exercise your Brain: Erina Library 10:30am Father’s Day: Bird Feeder Building Workshop: Gosford Regional Library 4.30pm Young Adult Book Chat: Gosford Regional Library 5.30pm

Father’s Day market The Gwandalan Lions Father’s Day Village Market will take place from 7.30amnoon on Saturday, September 5, with market stalls, food vendors, community groups, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Browse and support local businesses and community organisations while enjoying a relaxed morning by the lake. The market will be held near Gwandalan Scout Hall on the corner of Koowong Rd and Winbin Cres. Funds raised will support Gwandalan Lions Club’ work in the community. MakerSpace: Crochet Foundations for Beginners Part 1: Gosford Library 5.30pm Karaoke: EnAbles Spring All abilities Karaoke Night: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 6pm Quiets Blues Night - Sad Blues: Hardys Bay Club 6.30pm

FRI 4 SEP WYONG LEAGUE’S GROUP CUP DAY: WYONG RACE CLUB 11:30AM Then, Now and When: Gosford Regional Gallery [* to 13 Sep] Outtaspace Weekender 2026: 5th Annual Rock & Roll Party!: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm Live Music: Jasmine Sparkes: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 7.30pm Feed The Need - Food Relief Concert: The Entrance Leagues Club, Bateau Bay 7:30pm The Mixed Tape: Gosford RSL Club 8pm Daniel Muggleton: White Here, White Now: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

GIVE YOUR EVENT EVEN MORE EXPOSURE!

Advertise with us and your event will be bolded and capitalised. See our advertising opportunities by either calling 0493 641 652, scanning the QR code or visiting:

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Two top authors to share their wisdom The Words on the Waves festival will present its first post-festival event, Late Night Lit, at Ettalong on September 3. It will be a trademark evening of spoken word, poetry, literary readings and other surprises. Settle in to hear two very different but equally brilliant guest authors share words firsthand from their latest works. Born in the US and raised between Indonesia and Singapore, Tiffany Tsao is a former academic turned

award-winning translator.

literary

Her latest novel But Won’t I Miss Me is already a fiction favourite for 2026. Part feminist horror, part speculative fantasy, the book is utterly original. Grace Rouvray is a writer, actor, producer and podcast host. Her debut memoir Is It Too Early To Bitch? is a love letter to life-changing friendship. Grace and Katie are best

friends for 13 years – until tragedy strikes. The book asks what if the rarest thing we’ll ever find is a soulmate in a friend and the results are hilarious, heartbreaking and deeply honest. Late Night Lit Spring Edition will be held from 7pm on Thursday, September 3, at Bar Toto Ettalong. Signed books will be available to purchase. To register your attendance, go to ‘coming up’ at wordsonthewaves.com.au

Tiffany Tsao; Grace Rouvray

Joeys Coop comes to Link & Pin Joeys Coop – a supergroup comprising members of great 80s/90s Sydney bands like Died Pretty, Decline of the Reptiles, and Glide – will launch its new album at the Link & Pin, Woy Woy, at 2pm on Sunday, August 30.

Joeys Coop

The band includes Brett Myers of Died Pretty, Mark Roxburgh of Decline of the Reptiles, Marc Lynch of Glide and Lloyd Gyi of Perry Keyes and Dave Warner, amongst others.

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With new single In The Pines recently released and new album Sawdust Memories released on July 3, the band is lifting its profile. Joeys Coop’s music is everything anyone could hope for from a combination of its two founding members and songwriters. With Died Pretty, Brett Myers was responsible for the rich, melodic and incandescent sound guitar that bedded Ron S. Peno’s otherworldly vocals. With Joeys Coop, he does

much the same for Mark Roxburgh, who came out of the same Sydney inner-city scene that nurtured Died Pretty in the mid-1980s with the likeminded Decline of the Reptiles. Decline of the Reptiles was a Triple J fave, Waterfront Records recording artists, and, like Died Pretty, took influences from the late 1960s through to the late 70s and created something both startlingly original and contemporary. Before DOTR, Roxburgh had fronted the heavily Detroit influenced ME 262, and around

the same time, in Brisbane, Myers fronted the heavily Velvets/Television influenced The End. Both had shaken off their teenage proto-punk roots by the mid-80s and now, 40 years later, they’re making some beautiful noise together. After two albums on the now inactive seminal Sydney indie Citadel Records, Joeys Coop has decided to do it all themselves this time, with Sawdust Memories delivering 10 new songs.

PAGE 12 - EDITION #550

PUZZLES

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See page 20 for the previous edition’s puzzle solutions. The puzzle solutions for the last 4 editions can always be found on our website. Scan the QR code or visit:

coastcommunitynews.com.au/puzzle-solutions ACROSS 1. Crustacean with nippers 4. Distended 8. Magic stick 11. Jewish teacher 13. Circle (Earth) 15. Flavour 17. Misery 18. Great pain 20. Self-esteem 21. Brazilian dance 24. Lawn tools 27. Sin City, ... Vegas 28. Cherub 30. Egged on 31. Domain 33. Be present at 34. Forcible restraint 35. Loosen 36. Mixer drink 39. More considerable (of size) 42. Proclaim 44. Fish traps 45. Speed contests 46. Hessian bag

48. Open to view 49. Fly without power 50. China & Vietnam are there 52. Wild 54. Blood vessel 55. Fragrant timber 56. Natural world 57. Potato cake, ... brown 60. Shipshape 62. Crops up 65. Didn’t remember 67. The Press 69. Socially unacceptable 70. Supermarket lane 72. Spider’s lair 73. Dental thread 75. Angry growl 77. Scientist’s workplace 79. Take in (child) 81. That man’s 82. Rub out 84. Chicks’ homes 85. Dear Sir or ... 86. Tofu bean 87. Wrestles vigorously 88. Hospital dormitory

SCAN ME!

DOWN 1. Commend (for bravery) 2. Firebug’s felony 3. Vampire beast 4. Thailand’s former name 5. Ahead 6. Stared 7. Cosy corner 8. False hair 9. Ring-shaped coral isle 10. 24-hour periods 12. Besieged 14. Headquarters 16. Ditto 19. Titled 22. Communion tables 23. Bomb shelter 25. Grown-ups 26. Builds 29. Penitentiary guards 32. Donkey 35. Uncivilised 37. Closest relative, next ... (2,3)

38. Try 40. Room within roof 41. Not as common 42. Family vehicle 43. Enthusiastic 44. Approaches 47. Customers 51. TV reception pole 52. Sides 53. Coastal lake 54. Foul-mouthed 58. Bearing weapons 59. Possessed 61. Districts 63. Gaps 64. Waist bands 65. Petrified remnant 66. Lubricated 68. Jet black 71. Peruvian pack animal 72. Methods 74. Displace 76. Bank cash dispensers (1,1,2) 78. Flex 80. Legume 83. Uncooked

MISSING LINK MISSING LINK

Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only.

C B K DO O E S L B U E E A O T A E U L A R E S T OO G O A E OM I N L L R E N O N G O U F O R U A K T D T © Lovatts Puzzles

Evergreen Village Open Day Saturday 12th September Discover Retirement Living in West Gosford Missing Link Solution:

Y C B P K UDOS OO Z E S L B J U E F E A R O T A K E U L A RGE S T X MOO G OV A E NOM I N A L L

Saturday 12th September | 9:30AM – 1:30PM Evergreen West Gosford, Yallambee Ave, West Gosford • Wander through our open homes • Free transport to explore the village • Treat yourself to a coffee and cake at our café • Enjoy our free sausage sizzle • Soak up the live entertainment • Browse market stalls and chat to service providers • Visit our pop-up museum with local historian Peter Fisher 02 4349 2300 | evergreenliving.com.au

RSVP NOW

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Help Feed the Need at special concert Don’t miss the Feed the Need food relief concert at The Entrance on September 4. The 2025 event raised $26,000 for those experiencing food insecurity on the Central Coast, with this year’s concert set to be even bigger and better. Presented by The Bikers Hand and Berkeley Vale and Bateau Bay Neighbourhood Centres, the event is a perfect chance for the community to come together to help those who need it. The entertainment lineup will feature Lyn Bowtell, Bryce Sainty, Therese Proust and the Denim Duo with MC Wayne ‘Ossie’ Osborne sure to keep the night pumping. From the country music clubs of the Darling Downs to stages across Australia and the world, Lyn Bowtell has earnt her place as one of the country’s most accomplished musical artists. She was a founding member

Bryce Sainty will be one of the featured artists

and songwriter of the awardwinning trio Bella. Since then, she’s carved out a stellar solo career, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums. She was also founding member of Australian ‘Supergroup’ Bennett, Bowtell and Urquhart, who achieved multiple Golden Guitar Awards. With influences spanning country, blues, jazz and pop, her rich, emotive vocals and

soul-stirring songwriting set her apart as a powerful musical force. Sainty is considered to be one of the best emerging country artists in Australia. He followed his breakout single Never Going Back with Do You Remember, a uniquely upbeat country pop Summer anthem, Nervous and On The Weekend. In 2021 he released Just Chillin’, co-written with The

Wolfe Brothers and featuring Nick Wolfe on guitar, followed in 2022 with This Summer’s The One and the EP Hometown. He played with Andrew Farris (INXS), Tim Freedman (The Whitlams) and Rod McCormack as part of a songwriters showcase at the Tamworth Country Music Festival before joining the Wolfe Brothers on the NSW Leg of their national tour. All artists have donated their time and talent and The Entrance Leagues Club has provided its auditorium to host the concert. Radio Coast FM 96.3 has provided funds for a sound technician and local businesses have raffle prizes for the night. The Feed the Need food relief concert will be held at 7.30pm on September 4, with tickets $60 each. To book search ‘feed the need’ on the Central Coast at humanitix.com

Celebrating the jazz classics The Natalie Claire Jazz Band will present its Celebrating the Classics show at Laycock St Community Theatre on Saturday, September 5. With Natalie Claire on vocals, Miroslav Galcynski on keys, Jason Smith on double bass and Steve Ley on drums, the band will present jazz standards, swing, bossa nova and samba. Hear songs made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee and more in an afternoon of world-class jazz. The Natalie Claire Jazz Band delights audiences with timeless swinging jazz standards, tender ballads and upbeat Latin rhythms. Natalie Claire was exposed to jazz from a young age through her mother’s music collection which featured Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee and Nina Simone.

The Natalie Claire Jazz Band

Her smooth silky voice is full of warmth. She perfected her jazz technique with various singing teachers and obtained a deep understanding of jazz through her study of music at UNSW. Her finely tuned sound coupled with her band’s musical expertise creates a sophisticated and elegant vibe. Mirek Galcynski started his

studies as a classical pianist and then broadened his repertoire by mastering jazz. He also studied percussion, where he was influenced by the Latin sounds of Cuba, and completed a Masters Degree in Music Performance and Teaching at the University of Poznan. He has worked with many great artists such as the Nelson

Brothers, The Temptations, Charo, Kenny James and the Australian International Ballet Academy. Jason Smith studied music at the Australian Institute of Music and has played in multiple bands. “But my true love is jazz, and I’ve been jamming on the upright bass in some of the best venues in town,” he said. Steve Ley completed jazz studies at the Canberra School of Music (ANU) before making his home in Sydney in the mid ‘90s. Since then, he has performed at hundreds of venues and festivals and has toured with rock, blues and ‘world music’ groups around the east coast of Australia. Celebrating the Classics plays at 4pm on September 5. Book at laycockstreettheatre.com

MATCHMAKER What real compatability actually looks like One of the biggest misconceptions about modern dating is that compatibility means having everything in common. It does not. You do not need identical personalities, hobbies or interests to create a strong relationship. In fact, many successful couples are surprisingly different in the way they approach life. As a matchmaker working across the Central Coast, I meet people from all walks of life. Some are highly social, others are quiet and reserved. Some love adventure, while others enjoy a slower pace of life. Yet the couples who tend to succeed long-term are not necessarily the ones who appear perfect on paper. They are the ones who create emotional ease for one another. Real compatibility is not about surface-level similarities. It is about how two people function together emotionally and practically in everyday life. Do they communicate openly? Do they respect each other? Do their values align? Do they bring consistency into one another’s lives? One of the most overlooked signs of compatibility is emotional steadiness.

Amy B

You are not left secondguessing how they feel about you. Their words and actions align; they follow through. They create trust through consistency rather than intensity. Many people mistake emotional highs and lows for passion, but emotional unpredictability is not the same thing as connection. Healthy relationships are often far calmer than people expect them to be. The strongest couples are not usually the loudest ones. They are the couples who quietly build trust, emotional safety and respect over time. Because lasting relationships are not built purely on attraction. They are built on consistency, emotional maturity and genuine connection.

matchmakerandco.com.au

CCN Local Entrepreneur Partner Program

Don’t miss the EnAbles karaoke night

The night promises fun for people of all abilities

Spring is the best time to sing. Don’t miss the EnAbles Karaoke Night at Gosford’s Fun Haus Factory on September 3. Sing your favourite songs all night long as DJ Psylent Bob plays some awesome music. The night will also feature a CEO Sing Off Challenge, where invited CEOs and their supporters will compete to see who has the most fun singing and dancing to a tune of their choice.

The winner, as decided by the audience, will get to take home the EnAbles CEO Sing Off trophy, and have bragging rights for the next 12 months. As always there will be free snacks and prizes on the night, including for having the most fun, and for best dressed. EnAbles events are held on the first Thursday of every second month. They are made possible by the support of sponsors: My Home Living care, an NDIS

registered disability support organisation providing high quality SIL accommodation services; Plan Tracker, an NDIS Plan Management organisation; Focused Primary Care, an NDIS disability support organisation providing in home and community access staffing; and Fairhaven. More information and photos from previous events are on the EnAbles Facebook page at facebook.com/EnablesEvents “EnAbles is place where

everyone is welcome – not only people with a disability,” a spokesperson said. “It’s about fun, meeting new and old friends and dancing the night away. “It’s the most fun you can have on legs and wheels.” The Karaoke EnAbles event takes place from 6pm-10pm on Thursday, September 3. Get your free tickets at www. funhausfactory.org.au

PAGE 14 - EDITION #550

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Business & Property Talk directly with tour and cruise operators

Discover ancient wonders in Cambodia like the statues at Angkor Thom (south gate)

The Travellers Hut gives clients the opportunity to talk directly with their preferred tour or cruise companies at its regular HutTALKS held at its Kincumber office. “We hold our morning tea and information sessions usually twice a month and invite a guest speaker,” a spokesperson said. “(This enables clients) to talk with them for in depth details regarding the tours or cruises that they offer. “It allows our clients to ask questions about the finer points of their holiday directly with our

SALA Lodge Siem Reap in Cambodia

guest speakers and being in a small environment allows plenty of chatter and brings up questions (others) may not have thought to ask.” Walter from Bunnik small group tours will be at The Travellers Hut on Wednesday, September 16, to discuss their tours available to the UK and Ireland, Europe, South America, Asia, Egypt Africa and Japan. Bunnik offer tours with a maximum of 20 guests in a normal coach, so there is plenty of space to spread out while on tour. On Thursday, September 17, Travellers Hut owner Glenn Jarvis will talk about

independent holidays to Vietnam and will also feature his next escorted journey for September 2027 to Southern Vietnam and Cambodia. “Our maximum 12 travellers journeys try to and steer clear of mainstream where possible, seeing places that many of the larger operators do not even know about,” he said. “We stay in luxury accommodation, include amazing experiences and of course enjoy the delicious cuisine.” To book your place at one of the hutTALKS call the team at The Travellers Hut on 4363 1699.

Trainees will help address skills shortage Amelia Tisdell and Sophie English are just two of 114 apprentices and trainees across the public sector in the Central Coast and Hunter regions who have benefitted from the NSW Government’s push to tackle the skills shortage. The women have learnt skills in their chosen profession of pathology while undertaking TAFE courses and applied them in real time, working in the lab at Gosford Hospital. The government has committed to employing an extra 1,000 trainees to tackle skills shortages across essential services and create paid career pathways throughout the state. Member for Gosford Liesl

Tesch said more than half of the cohort is based in regional NSW. “This is keeping students in the region where they want to live and stopping the brain drain to the cities,” she said. Sophie English said this had allowed her to build her skills, continue her studies, and learn from experienced professionals within the industry. “The program has given me a strong foundation for my future career and the confidence to grow and develop within the pathology field.” Amelia Tisdell said the on-site training had helped progress her career. “Being able to know how behind the scenes of treatment works helps me to appreciate

the job all health professionals do and the way they care for their patients; doing this has made pathology have a place in my heart,” she said. The traineeships have been offered in critical skills areas including electrotechnology, civil construction, plumbing, health services, IT, early childhood education, and more. Hunter and Central Coast recorded the highest participation of apprentices and trainees, followed by North Coast and Mid North Coast (110), Western NSW (109), and the Riverina (96). Women account for 45% of the cohort, reflecting growing participation across apprenticeships and traineeships in a broader range of industries.

Amelia Tisdell, Sophie English and Liesl Tesch

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BUSINESS & PROPERTY

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3,000+ short term rentals at our beaches The number of homes on the Coast used as short stay rental accommodation (STRA) such as Airbnb and Stayz is 3,166, according to a report to Central Coast Council. “As of April 2026, there are 2,000availablepropertieswith AirBnB and 1,166 Stayz propertiesavailableasSTRA,” thereportsaid,bringingtothe total to the 3166. STRAs are concentrated around coastal areas on the Central Coast such as Avoca Beach, Copacabana, Ettalong, Pearl Beach, The Entrance and Umina Beach. “Although listing rates are high in coastal areas, occupancy rates are not necessarily high,” the report said. “For instance, there are 343 active STRA listings in Terrigal with an occupancy rate of 19%.” Official figures state that the

Most short term rentals are near the beach.

Coast had 146,248 dwellings in 2021, with no updates since then so STRA make up a little over 2%. Measures being investigated or implemented to encourage a transition of some properties back into the long-term rental

market include caps on days homes are allowed to operate as STRA and the Tasmanian Government is considering a 5% statewide levy. The majority of metropolitan Sydney has a 180-day limit

under the State housing provisions. But the report noted that with occupancy rates at 19% for example, caps may still allow sufficient STRA utilisation to remain financially attractive. “Consequently, these controls

may reduce activity within local tourism economies without materially increasing longterm rental supply,” the report said. Monitoring and registration of STRA in NSW is undertaken by NSW Fair Trading, with councils playing a secondary role focused on amenity impacts such as noise and fire safety rather than direct regulation. All STRA premises must be registered via the NSW Planning Portal prior to operation. The register monitors day limits and provides data to councils on active STRA listings. The report said that transitioning a proportion of short-term rental accommodation into long-term rental housing can support permanent population growth and retention by increasing housing availability,moderating rental price pressures, and improving access for local workers.

“This, in turn, potentially strengthens local labour markets, supports year-round economic activity, and enhances community cohesion,” the report said. “At a strategic level, it enhances community cohesion, improves infrastructure efficiency, and contributes to a more resilient and diversified local economy.” The report comes in response to a May decision from Council calling for statistics on the number of short-term rentals on the Central Coast and legal implications. Council’s Economic Development Committee wants more detail on the trends and State Government decisions and changes for the sector, with options for possible actions locally. The next report is due on December 1. Merilyn Vale

Why we need more cycleways The average cost of a car in regional Australia is 15.7% of the average yearly income or $22,759.14 a year, according to figures from the Australian Automobile Association Transport Affordability Index March Quarter 2026. The total includes car loan repayments, fuel, tolls, insurance, services, rego and CTP slip. Central Coast Council says the costs of cars is one reason why the Coast needs more cycleways. It says that in some parts of the Central Coast, up to 14% of households don’t own a car,

and up to 54% of households have one car. Gosford, Woy Woy, Wyong, Erina and The Entrance all have low car ownership. Council says this is due to the high number of apartments and, for some, access to train stations. In other areas, as few as 1.4% households live without a car. ”This shows that there is a large spread of car ownership across the Central Coast LGA, with very different needs,” says a report to Council outlining its walking, wheeling and cycling strategy. “The Central Coast covers a large area, with its best public

transport access along the railway line to the west, the largest shopping centre at Erina, and the beaches along the coast. “This means it’s hard to access daily needs without having to travel. “Increased usage of our pathway networks won’t solve all of our travel needs, however it will help more of our residents and visitors to access local destinations more easily.” Council’s network includes: 271km of shared paths for people walking, wheeling and cycling, 695km of footpaths, and 150km of separated cycleways and on-road cycle lanes.

Programs planned for delivery include replacing existing pathways that are in poor condition and completing local missing link pathways and new shared paths at Mannering Park Foreshore, Avoca Dr, Avoca; Tuggerawong Foreshore; Sparks Rd, Warnervale; Pacific Hwy, North Wyong; Marine Pde, The Entrance; Malinya Rd, Davistown; The Esplanade, Ocean Beach and Barrenjoey Rd, Blackwall. The full Council will consider the report at the August meeting later this month. Merilyn Vale The Coast needs more cycleways, a Council report says

Recognition for Frank Sammut A leading advocate for manufacturing, skills development and industry collaboration on the Central Coast has been recognised as part of Business NSW’s 200th anniversary celebrations. Frank Sammut, Chief Executive Officer of Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC), has been named the Central Coast recipient of the 2026 Business NSW Service to the Region Awards, which recognise individuals making a lasting contribution to regional communities across the state. For the past decade, Mr Sammut has led Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC),

Central Coast Industry Connect Executive Director Frank Sammut

fostering strong partnerships between industry, government, education and research to drive regional growth.

He played a key role in establishing the $17M Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub, a landmark project that positions the region as a leader in food production and skills development. With nearly 20 years of involvement in the Central Coast business community, including serving as Regional President for Business NSW, his dedication and achievements have made a lasting difference to the manufacturing ecosystem and economic vitality of the region. Business NSW Regional Director Central Coast Scott Goold said the award recognises an individual whose

commitment and leadership have helped shape one of the region’s most important economic sectors. “Frank has been a tireless advocate for manufacturing, innovation and workforce development across the Central Coast,” Mr Goold said. “Through his leadership of Central Coast Industry Connect, he has brought together businesses, educators, researchers and government agencies to create opportunities that benefit the entire region. “The development of the Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub is a lasting legacy that will continue to strengthen local

industry, build skills and create jobs for years to come. “Frank’s contribution to the Central Coast extends well beyond any single project. “His dedication to collaboration and economic development has helped position our region for future growth, making him a deserving recipient of this recognition.” Business NSW Executive Director, Regional NSW and The Visitor Economy Paula Martin said Mr Sammut’s recognition reflected the important role regional leaders play in building stronger local economies. “Frank’s work is a powerful

example of what can be achieved when industry, government, education and research work together with a shared regional purpose,” Ms Martin said. “His leadership has helped strengthen the Central Coast’s manufacturing capability and created practical pathways for innovation, skills development and long-term economic growth. “As Business NSW celebrates 200 years of supporting business communities across the state, it is fitting to recognise leaders like Frank who have made a lasting contribution to the regions they serve.”

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BUSINESS BRIEF

New Red Cross shop A new Australian Red Cross Shop has opened at 82 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal. The shop offers quality, affordable new and pre-loved fashion and accessories while keeping items out of landfill. Shop sustainably while supporting vital Australian Red Cross humanitarian work, supporting people facing vulnerability, disaster and crisis in Australia and across the world. “In the past year alone, our impact has contributed approximately $9M to help deliver emergency assistance, migration support, community resilience programs and international humanitarian services,” a spokesperson said. “Our retail stores play an important role in reducing textile waste. “Over the past year, 5.88 million items of clothing were made available through Australian Red Cross Shops and merchant suppliers.” The new shop is open from 9.15am-5pm on Saturdays and 10am-3pm on Sundays. See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

EDITION #550 - PAGE 17 www.coastcommunitynews.com.au | ccn@centralcoastnews.net

BUSINESS & PROPERTY

Who will deliver our high-speed rail? Three of the world’s leading high-speed rail manufacturers and suppliers will vie for the right to deliver the Newcastle to Sydney High Speed Rail project. The first stage of the project is expected to cut travel times from the Central Coast to Sydney or Newcastle to just 30 minutes, with trains operating up to 320km/h. Three global rail proponents have been shortlisted for an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process following a competitive process. They are: Alstom/UGL Joint Venture – Alstom Transport Australia, UGL Engineering; ARC Joint Venture – Siemens Mobility, Siemens Mobility GmbH, Mott MacDonald Australia; and Hitachi Rail STS Australia. The three will compete with each other to design and develop Australia’s first highspeed trains and systems, with the competitive approach expected to deliver the best outcome on construction costs and program timeframes. They will base their work on proven trains and systems already operating successfully around the world, supported by internationally-experienced

The High Speed Rail project will cut travel times from the Coast to Sydney and Newcastle to 30 minutes Photo: High Speed Rail Authority

designers, systems integrators and engineering firms and adapted to Australian conditions. The three proponents are part of the High Speed Rail Authority’s ECI process, which will refine and integrate mature, proven train and rail technologies for the project rather than develop a bespoke system from scratch. It will also explore

opportunities for Australian manufacturing, industry participation and workforce development as part of adapting the proposed solutions to Australian conditions. The Trains, Systems and System Integration contract package includes: the supply of Australia’s first high-speed trains; the design and delivery of rail systems, the depot and operations control centre; and

the integration, testing and commissioning of the Newcastle to Sydney highspeed rail system. The proponents will also consider how advanced manufacturing can support the efficient delivery of high-speed rail. An Advanced Manufacturing Facility proposed by the Authority would use automation, robotics and precision

manufacturing to deliver the railway more efficiently. The facility would create skilled jobs and more opportunities for Australian manufacturers and suppliers to help deliver the project. No major construction contract will be awarded until a government decision-making process is complete following the end of the development phase. One of the three proponents will then be selected by the High Speed Rail Authority. High Speed Rail Authority CEO Tim Parker said the project uses tried and tested highspeed trains and systems already operating successfully around the world. “Our partners will work with us to adapt proven technology for Australian conditions, Australian safety requirements and the needs of Australian passengers,” he said. “High-speed rail is about much more than speed. “We want a reliable, accessible, comfortable and digitally-connected service that transforms the way people travel between Newcastle, the Central Coast and Sydney.” ADVERTISEMENT

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FORUM & ON THE BEAT Dogs a menace at Terrigal Haven I concur with the sentiments raised by Joy Cooper (CCN 548) about non-compliance of some residents allowing their dogs onto Terrigal Haven, threatening wildlife and in many cases leaving behind their ablutions. I have written to Central Coast Council on numerous occasions to have extra No Dogs signage erected either side of the boat ramp where people are entering with their dogs onto the Haven beach. Council reaction has been nought. I have also submitted over the past couple of years Freedom of Information requests to ascertain how many infringement notices have been issued by Council rangers for non-compliance of taking dogs onto the Haven beach. It has also come to nought. At any given time, there are

FORUM More forum? Scan the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum least six dogs on the Haven beach. It could be a tidy revenue earner for Council, but alas, it is easier to just to hike up rates and do nothing. Email, Aug 17 Name withheld, Narara

Relocating bus stop a good idea I have noticed on several occasions when bussing to Erina Fair (that) it is common for buses to hold at the intersection lights of Central Coast Hwy and Ernest St. The bus stop in question is across that intersection and buses departing there need to wait for passing traffic to cross onto the right turn only into Karalta Rd. My suggestion is that the bus

stop be relocated to 155 Central Coast Hwy to set down-pick up, then move on to the control lights at the intersection. There could be a B-Light allowing buses to cross over to the left turn lane without the delays being experienced. Email, Aug 11 Dave F. Ryan, Gosford

Cap Mingara development to three storeys The McKell Institute’s push to fast-track high-density housing on “surplus” club land (CCN 548) is dangerously blind to the reality on the ground in Tumbi Umbi. Our political representatives have surrendered to the developer’s narrative, but a look at our current local healthcare infrastructure

reveals a looming public health crisis. This is no longer a theoretical debate about zoning; it is a matter of community survival. Right now, medical practices closest to the proposed Mingara development have completely closed their books to new patients. Furthermore, Gosford Hospital has been forced to issue urgent community alerts begging people not to attend the emergency department unless their condition is critical because the facility is entirely over capacity. Despite this catastrophic strain, the approved plan forces hundreds of vulnerable, elderly residents into a massive, highdensity complex. Urban planning data from the Urban Development Institute of Australia shows that 33% of new housing supply is already crippled by a lack of supporting infrastructure like medical services . To ram a massive mini-city into Tumbi Umbi when seniors

will have zero access to a local GP and our regional hospital is failing to cope is height-ofscale negligence. This overdevelopment also targets the vital 150+ space overflow parking zone for the Central Coast Regional Athletics Track. Erasing this space triggers the irreversibility principle tracked by Community Housing Industry Association: once public-use land is sold to a private developer, it can never be bought back. Our local youth are permanently losing their regional sporting future to line a developer’s pockets. The human data is even worse. Macquarie University wellbeing research explicitly proves that forcing vulnerable seniors into towering complexes devoid of groundlevel green space causes a dramatic spike in clinical social isolation and pedestrian hazards.

This isolation has a literal health cost. Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute data proves lonely individuals use emergency medical services 60% more frequently – the exact services that Gosford Hospital cannot currently provide. The community supports sensible seniors housing, but we demand a realistic compromise: the development must be capped at a maximum of three storeys. A strict three-storey cap scales back the population influx to a level our local doctors might actually be able to manage, while preserving the ground-level green space and athletics track parking required to keep Tumbi Umbi liveable. The battle is not over—the developer must still satisfy strict post-approval conditions. We must hold the line and demand a three-storey limit. Email, Aug 11 Christine Hennig, Tumbi Umbi

ON THE BEAT

Woman injured in ON THE BEAT BRIEFS fall from horse In court over carpark crash

The critical care team on-site

A woman aged in her 60s was injured after falling from a horse at Kulnura on Sunday, August 16. At about 11.30am, a Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to the McPherson State Forest. The woman had fallen from a

horse in remote, steep bushland. The helicopter’s critical care medical team was winched into the scene and treated the woman for back injuries before she was winched out with the medical team and airlifted to John Hunter Hospital.

Police find cannabis worth $215,000 A man will face court after cannabis worth $215,000 was allegedly seized during a vehicle stop on the Central Coast recently. At about 3.30pm on Tuesday, August 11, police officers attached to Northern Region stopped a van travelling northbound on the M1 Pacific Motorway at Alison near Wyong. During a search of the vehicle, police allegedly located and

seized four large bags containing 44kg of cannabis. The seized drugs have an estimated potential street value of $215,000. The 39-year-old male driver of the van was arrested and taken to Toronto Police Station. He was charged with supply prohibited drug greater than or equal to commercial quantity. The man was granted conditional bail to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday, October 7.

The cannabis found in the man’s vehicle

Boat on fire at Wyee Bay Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie volunteers assisted a multi-agency response to a vessel fire at Wyee Bay on Lake Macquarie on August 10. Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Jane Shirriff said NSW Police Marine Area Command requested assistance shortly after 9pm.

“A crew was assembled and deployed on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Lake Macquarie 30,” she said. “Lake Macquarie 30 headed to the Mannering Park boat ramp to collect four Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters and their hazardous materials equipment before transporting them to the vessel fire.

“The Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters worked from on board Lake Macquarie 30, but unfortunately the vessel could not be saved. “Thankfully, the lone person on board was able to swim to shore, but the vessel was destroyed by fire and subsequently sank in approximately 4.5 metres of water.

“Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie radio operators broadcast safety messages to advise boaters of the hazard and urge them to keep clear of the area. “The Lake Macquarie 30 crew returned the firefighters to the Mannering Park boat ramp before returning to base just before 1am on August 11.”

A man will face court next month following a crash in a carpark at a Central Coast beach. At about 3.40pm on Tuesday, June 23, emergency services were called to Soldiers Beach Car Park at Norah Head following reports of a crash. Police were told a Toyota Corolla had reversed out of a parking space at speed before colliding with a utility. The Corolla was then allegedly driven forward at speed, colliding with a parked vehicle which struck a pedestrian, throwing her several metres. The pedestrian – a 76-yearold woman – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital for the treatment of serious injuries.

The driver of the Corolla – a 95-year-old man – was not injured but was taken to Wyong Hospital for mandatory testing. The driver of the utility – a 66-year-old man – was not injured. A crime scene was established, and an investigation commenced by Tuggerah Lakes Police District and the Crash Investigation Unit (CIU). At about 11.50am on Saturday, August 15, CIU officers attended a home in Bateau Bay, where a 95-yearold man was issued a Court Attendance Notice charged with five offences. He is due to appear before Wyong Local Court on Monday, September 28.

Teenage boy charged after stabbing A teenage boy has been charged over the alleged stabbing of another teen at Terrigal on Friday night, August 21. Emergency services were called to Painters Lane at about 9.45pm after reports that someone had been stabbed. NSW Ambulance paramedics

treated a 15-year-old boy for a stab wound before he was taken to Gosford Hospital in a critical condition. At about 3pm the next day – Saturday, August 22 – a 15-year-old boy was arrested at Gosford Police Station where he was charged with wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Anyone with information about any incidents should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online nsw.crimestoppers.com.au Information will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

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Health & Education Auxiliary celebrates 80 years

Auxiliary members with some of the equipment they have funded

Ourimbah Auxiliary is celebrating 80 years of fundraising and support for local healthcare. Members of the Auxiliary recently visited Gosford Hospital for a demonstration of equipment and resources purchased through donations made during the 2025-26 financial year.

Last year, the auxiliary donated over $17,200 to fund a range of equipment and resources. Donations included: furniture, children’s toys and aTweetycam monitor for the Gosford Family Care Cottage; a Sara Stedy patient lifting device for the K1 Geriatric Inpatient Unit; a computer on wheels for the H3 Medical Assessment Unit; and

a vital signs observation machine for the K2 Geriatric Inpatient Unit. Central Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive Jude Constable said the equipment is helping improve patient experience and supporting clinical care. “The Ourimbah Auxiliary is a passionate group of volunteers

whose support makes a real difference to our patients and staff,” she said. “We are truly grateful for their longstanding commitment to local health services and helping us to enhance the delivery of quality healthcare on the Central Coast.” To mark the 80th anniversary, the Auxiliary has produced a

ADAM

CROUCHMP 02 4365 1906

terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au adamcrouchmp.com.au Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250, funded using parliamentary entitlements

special booklet showcasing eight decades of history, fundraising achievements, friendships and community service. The booklet is available for purchase for $10 from Ourimbah Newsagency, with all proceeds supporting future equipment purchases for Gosford Hospital.

Ourimbah Auxiliary is always welcoming new members. The group meets on the second Monday of each month at 1pm at the Christadelphian Bible Learning Centre, 26 Pacific Hwy, Ourimbah. For more information, contact Auxiliary President Beverley on 0409 247 706.

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Down in the Garden Spring is Coming: Quick Jobs to Do in the Garden Now You can feel it happening. The mornings might still have a chill, but the days are stretching out, buds are swelling and gardens across the country are beginning to wake. Spring is almost here, and a little work now will put you ahead before the season really takes off. Here are some quick jobs to tackle over the next couple of weeks.

Start with a garden walk. Before buying anything, wander around and really look. Check for winter damage, broken branches, struggling plants and empty spaces. Notice where weeds are appearing and which areas could use more colour. A tenminute inspection can save plenty of unnecessary purchases.

Get on top of the weeds. Those tiny weeds appearing now will become enormous surprisingly quickly once warmer weather arrives. Pull them while the soil is moist and before they flower and set seed. Future you will be very grateful. Refresh your mulch. Check garden beds and top up mulch where it has broken down or become thin. Mulching now helps suppress spring weeds and conserve soil moisture as temperatures rise. Keep mulch away from trunks and plant stems.

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fertilise everything, though. Australian natives, for example, may require a lowphosphorus native fertiliser.

Check your irrigation. Turn irrigation systems on before you desperately need them. Look for blocked drippers, leaking connections and sprinklers watering the driveway instead of the

by CHERALYN DARCEY Cheralyn hosts The Nightline, weeknights, on 2HD Newcastle across Australia on the Super Radio Network (SRN). Listen on your local SRN station or stream at 2SM.com.au www.cheralyndarcey.com

garden. Replace damaged hoses and fittings now.

Clean up your pots. Remove dead growth, weeds and fallen leaves from containers. Check drainage holes and refresh tired potting mix where necessary. Plants that have completely outgrown their pots can be moved into something larger.

Feed hungry plants. As plants begin actively growing again, they’ll need nutrients. Add compost around garden beds and start feeding appropriate plants as growth resumes. Don’t automatically

Prepare the vegetable patch. Remove finished winter crops and weeds, then replenish beds with compost and organic matter. Start planning tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, zucchini and other warm-season favourites, but remember that frost can still be a risk in cooler regions. Start seeds. Late winter is a wonderful time to get a head start on spring and summer crops. Seeds can be started in a warm, protected location and grown into sturdy seedlings ready for planting when conditions are suitable. Inspect your tools. Clean secateurs, sharpen blades and check the mower. There’s nothing more frustrating than discovering your equipment isn’t working

Book Review by Julie Chessman

It was self-published in 2023 after being rejected by publishers, it became an Amazon sensation and was later republished by Simon and Schuster and made it on to The New York Times Best Seller list. Theo of Golden is a warm, reflective novel that celebrates the extraordinary impact of ordinary lives. It is written with compassion,

wisdom and understated humour, exploring themes of kindness, memory, grief, and the ways in which people leave lasting impressions on those around them. This story is about a mysterious older man who moves to the small town of Golden for one year. Theo asks a lot more questions than he answers; his gentle presence becomes the thread connecting a community of people, each carrying burdens, regrets, and hopes.

Look for pests. New spring growth is irresistible to aphids, snails, slugs and other garden visitors. Start checking tender shoots and the undersides of leaves now. Early intervention is much easier than dealing with an established infestation. Finally, don’t try to do everything in one weekend. Spring gardening should be something to enjoy, not another exhausting list of jobs. Choose two or three tasks, make yourself a cup of tea and head outside. The garden is waking up, and this is one of the loveliest times of the year to wake up with it. Cheralyn Dacrey

See the full book review online and lots more book reviews on our website. Scan the QR code or visit:

Theo of Golden By Allen Levi

This month’s book club book is Theo of Golden by author Allen Levi – what an utter treat this book is!

when the garden suddenly begins growing at full speed.

coastcommunitynews.com.au/book-reviews

The novel unfolds through He writes with remarkable What makes Theo of Golden interconnected stories, restraint; his prose is elegant especially memorable is its allowing readers to glimpse without becoming ornate, celebration of everyday the lives of characters whose allowing emotion to emerge goodness. Fill in each letter of the alphabet once only. paths cross because of Theo. naturally rather than through Warm, wise, and quietly and every This gives the book a rich, melodrama, inspiring, Theo of Golden is a O feels authentic, almost mosaic-like quality, conversation I F reflection F Y earned.I O Unovel to savour rather than illustrating how the individualsJ every L to I rush. are connected in unexpected NThere is a musical rhythm ways. A his writing E thatE encourages N T ItEis likely to resonate with who appreciate This novel is a feast for the readers U Nto Tslow down I S and T readers X senses, focusing on light and R savour the quietImoments –Ta Ethoughtful literary fiction and colour for the heart with R a shared cup of coffee, GU T R aEwalkE believe L that kindness remains delightful array of characters. through a familiar street or the one of the most powerful E E N G T Levi suggests that the comforting presence of a forces we possess. A P G D greatest legacy lies in the faithful dog lying at someone’s K N E L E L L S kindness we extend to others. feet. Julie Chessman

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Amy’s journey for her rainbow baby With Rainbow Baby Day being celebrated on August 22, Amy Healy is on a mission to let people experiencing fertility issues know there are services that can help. Rainbow Baby Day is about recognising that after every storm, there is a rainbow. It’s a celebration of children born healthy after a previous miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss, while also honouring the siblings who came before them and didn’t survive. Ms Healy and her husband Tim’s own long road to parenthood included two miscarriages and a successful IVF treatment. At the age of 28, the San Remo couple had spent five years trying to fall pregnant, as Ms Healy lived with

endometriosis, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and painful cycles. She eventually conceived naturally, only to miscarry. “I lost a baby at seven weeks in May 2024 and it was devastating and heartbreaking and I thought I didn’t want to go through that again,” she said. Just days later, a fertility ad for Adora appeared on her Facebook feed. She reached out and began IVF with treating specialist Dr Paul Atkinson. Her first embryo transfer resulted in a positive pregnancy test but sadly ended unsuccessfully. Then, after collapsing at work, Ms Healy discovered a mass on her fallopian tube. Within three weeks, Dr Atkinson had organised an

Amy Healy with her rainbow baby Roman

emergency referral and Ms Healy underwent surgery to remove the mass along with one of her fallopian tubes. After recovering, she went through a second embryo

transfer – and this time, it worked and her son Roman was three months old on Saturday, August 22. The couple still has four embryos in storage and hopes

to have more children. “I needed that extra assistance to find out why I was miscarrying,” Ms Healy said. “My fallopian tubes were repaired and two months later

I was having an embryo transfer.” Ms Healy said people were surprised to learn IVF did not mean spending your life savings, estimating the process cost the couple around $3,500 and much of it was eligible for Medicare rebates. “I want to let people know that if you are struggling with fertility, there are low-cost IVF treatments and services out there that can help without charging you your life savings,” she said. ‘They have given me the love of my life and I can’t talk more highly of them.” It is estimated as many as 110,000 Australian women will experience a miscarriage each year, with up to 2% suffering through three or more miscarriages in a row.

Gina and Matty urge blood donations Star 104.5’s Gina and Matty broadcast live from the Bateau Bay Lifeblood Mobile Donor Centre on August 14 to raise awareness around the importance of blood donations, especially during the Winter season, which typically sees a drop in donations. The two popular radio presenters rolled up their sleeves to donate their own blood live on air, helping to encourage 68 people to come

Gina and Matty both gave blood

down and give blood too, helping to save 200 lives. Usually by 9am the centre only has five donations. The morning also saw listeners come down to watch the show, support the cause and enjoy a free barbecue breakfast. It was a fitting finish to the pair’s Bloody Legends campaign, which saw them use their show as a platform to have much-needed, important conversations around blood donations and the importance

it can have in changing lives and treating cancer patients, reminding their listeners why just one donation can have such a profound impact. Blood donation numbers on the Central Coast reached record highs in December and January, with about 1,600 donors per month following the Bondi attack. But donations have since declined, with about 1,300 donors in June, below the target of 1,500 donors per

month needed to maintain supply levels. Winter colds and flu are impacting donor numbers, along with some donors not returning after donating around the time of the Bondi attack. Nationally, about 3% of the population donates blood, with the Gosford region sitting around the national average. Lifeblood is currently experiencing high cancellation rates due to illness, with about 40% of appointments resulting in an empty donor bed.

More mental health support Coasties experiencing a mental health emergency will soon be connected to more appropriate, healthled support under a new health-led response model backed by more than $270M in NSW Government funding over 10 years. The new model, designed in consultation with NSW Health, NSW Police, unions and advocacy groups, will mean people who call Triple Zero (000) during a mental health crisis can be connected with a new dedicated team of mental health experts who will assess their needs, provide immediate support, and connect them with the care that’s right for them. That could include being connected to counselling, local mental health services, or the new specialist Mental Health Acute Assessment Team within NSW Ambulance. Community and staff safety will remain the highest priority in all emergency situations.

Minister for Police and Counterterrorism Yasmin Catley

NSW Police will continue to attend mental health incidents and emergencies where the police are the most appropriate agency to attend. The funding will establish a statewide Virtual Mental Health Hub within NSW Ambulance, along with eight Mental Health Acute Assessment Teams which will be based across areas of high need in NSW operating 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. The NSW Government has

been designing the new healthled response model following a series of mental health emergencies that highlighted the need to strengthen the way responses are coordinated across emergency services. Consultation has been done with NSW Health, NSW Police, unions and advocacy groups, including families who have experienced the devastating impacts of mental health emergencies. It responds directly to recommendations from the Bondi Junction Coronial Inquest, the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into community mental health care and the NSW Police Force review of mental health incident responses, all of which called for stronger health-led responses and better coordination between services. The new Mental Health Acute Assessment Teams will include a paramedic and specialist mental health nurse who will provide, in-person support for

people experiencing a mental health crisis. They will assess people’s needs, connect them with ongoing care where needed, and help arrange transport to a NSW Health facility if required. A Virtual Mental Health Hub will also provide real-time clinical advice to frontline responders attending mental health incidents, helping them make safer and more informed decisions. More than 100 new full-time roles will be created as the model is rolled out, ensuring the service can be expanded safely and sustainably. The new health-led model will complement existing services, including the Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (PACER) program, which will continue supporting police and paramedics responding to mental health incidents in the community. The approach has been

shaped by the UK’s Right Care Right Person Program. Member for Swansea and Minister for Police and Counterterrorism Yasmin Catley said police have worked cooperatively with NSW Health to develop the model of care. “It is critical that people experiencing mental health emergencies get the care they need,” she said. “Police will always respond when a police response is required to ensure public safety and the safety of those responding; that does not change.” Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said the move marked a major milestone for NSW. “When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, they need the right care from the right people and that’s exactly what this new healthled responder approach will do,” she said. “We know this reform has

taken time, and that’s because it really matters. “We have worked carefully with consumers, carers, clinicians, industrial bodies, and partner agencies to design a model that is safe, effective and equitable to ensure it meets the community’s needs. “The important thing to remember is that there is no change for the community; you should still call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. “The difference is that now when people call Triple Zero (000) during a mental health crisis, they can be connected with clinical support earlier and cared for in the least restrictive way possible. “Our goal is simple; increase access to mental health care, improve outcomes for affected individuals, reduce pressure on our hospital emergency departments, and reduce stigma when it comes to asking for help across the community.”

PAGE 22 - EDITION #550

THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 2026

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Tigers to face Roos in semi-final Photo: Andrew Stark

Kincumber’s Lahni Moore throws herself into a tackle on Brittany Starr

RUGBY LEAGUE The Entrance women’s team has rounded out its home and away rounds in the Central Coast Rugby League competition with a hard fought 36-14 victory over Kincumber on August 23. The Jamie Forbes coached Tigers will next face minor premiers Wyong in a keenly anticipated grand final qualifying semi-final. The Roos have edged the Tigers by just two points in both games played between the sides this season and another nail-biter is expected in the

clash to be played at Toukley on September 5. The Entrance’s powerhouse prop Anita Faimasui Brown skittled the Colts defenders early on during the win at Kincumber, scoring the opening two tries of the contest. Her second four-pointer came as a surprise even to her. Thinking the ball was heading out the back, she gave an audible yelp when the Steeden unexpectedly landed in her arms as she seemingly ran a decoy. Clinging to the ball, Brown duly proceeded to crash through the wall of scarlet jerseys in front of her to once again find the try line.

The mid-season addition of 18-year-old right side half Meg McPhail has added an extra dimension to the Tigers attack and she now forms a dynamic halves pairing with chief playmaker Kate Goodhand. Fifth placed Kincumber fought back gamely to trail 1210 midway through the opening half. After the break however, the visitors were able to pull away on the scoreboard, with former Western Rams representative hooker Xanthe Booth notching a double from close range. In other round 18 results: Wyong proved too strong for the third placed Terrigal running in three tries to one to win 14-6

at Kanwal; Ourimbah guaranteed their place in the final’s series with a 38-0 victory over Woy Woy; and Budgewoi ended its season with 26-14 win over the Panthers at Berkeley Vale. In the men’s competition, all four of the semi-final bound teams had wins: Erina defeated Kincumber 56-6; Wyong triumphed 40-10 over Terrigal; Toukley beat Woy Woy 34-16; and The Entrance accounted for this season’s wooden spooners Berkeley Vale winning 32-0. Andrew Stark: Magpie Memoir Magazine

Waves gave their all in spirited game BASKETBALL The Central Coast Waves finished the 2026 representative season as runners-up in the Women’s Youth League Basketball after going down 67–81 to the Canberra National Academy at Sutherland Basketball Stadium on Saturday, August 22. It was a spirited game that saw the Waves give their all

against heavily favoured opposition, fighting right down to the final buzzer. The girls from the Coast fought gamely the whole game through, but sadly, in a grand final there can only be one winner, and Canberra National Academy showed why they have gone through the whole season undefeated. The Waves have had an incredible year, with plenty of

strong, memorable performances to be proud of and more importantly, plenty to give them hope of going one better in 2027. Supporting the girls on Saturday, just like they have done all season, was a big contingent of families and supporters who made their way to Sutherland to cheer the girls on and make their presence felt.

2026 Waratah Women’s Youth League Basketball runners-up

Heffernan to coach Mariners women FOOTBALL (SOCCER) Dean Heffernan has been appointed head coach of the Central Coast Mariners women’s team, with Oliver Bozanic returning to the club for his second season as assistant coach. The appointment marks a homecoming for Heffernan, who has a long and proud history with the Mariners, having represented the club from 2005 to 2010. A key member of the Mariners’ early A-League era, Heffernan enjoyed a distinguished playing career on the Central Coast, including being part of the Mariners’ 2007–08 premiership-winning side as well as earning international honours with the Socceroos. He has also established himself as an accomplished coach in the women’s game. He took charge of Western

Dean Heffernan returns to the Mariners to coach the women’s team

Sydney Wanderers’ W-League team in 2019, and in his first season led the club to an historic first-ever finals series appearance, with the Wanderers finishing fourth before progressing to the semifinals. This achievement saw Heffernan deliver the Wanderwomen their first taste

of finals football, further establishing his credentials as a coach at the highest level of the domestic women’s game. Now returning to the club where his professional playing career began, Heffernan brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience, a strong understanding of the game and

a deep connection to the Central Coast. His appointment represents an exciting new chapter for the Mariners women as the club looks to build a strong culture, develop players and compete at the highest level. “It’s a major coup to have Dean back,” the club’s new

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Director of Women’s Football Matteo Maiorana said. “We are trying incredibly hard to ensure the Mariners women’s team is a team that the whole Central Coast community can get behind and support. “Having someone who is so deeply embedded in the fabric of the club, who knows what wearing that yellow and blue jersey means, was integral as we establish the team within our new ownership structure. “Putting aside his history with the club, Heff is a fantastic coach.” Heffernan said it was a proud moment to be back coaching at the Mariners. “I had some of the best years of my playing career here, and I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to create some special memories again – this time as a coach,” he said.

“I saw the incredible response from the Central Coast community when the future of the women’s program was uncertain. “Now, that future is clear with the support of HBG, we want to build something the whole Coast can get behind.” Oli Bozanic returns to the Mariners for his second season in an assistant coaching role. A former Mariners captain, Bozanic made more than 100 A-League appearances for the club, winning the 2012–13 A-League championship and playing a leading role in some of the most memorable moments in Mariners history. His transition into coaching provides the women’s program with an experienced football mind, strong leadership qualities and someone who understands exactly what it means to represent the Mariners.

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Top recognition for cricketer Ava

Ava Drury

CRICKET Terrigal-Matcham cricketer Ava Drury has capped off a stellar 2025/26 Summer of cricket by being named as a Basil Sellars Scholarship recipient by Cricket NSW. The program, made possible by the generosity of Cricket NSW Vice-Patron and Life Member Basil Sellers, provides 12 of the state’s most promising players with skills and opportunities to further their transition to elite cricket. Scholars will receive support across a range of areas, including leadership and mindset development, access to Cricket NSW highperformance facilities, financial support and an equipment sponsorship offer from Kookaburra Sports. “Of the 179 scholars who have participated in the program, 99 have gone on to play professional cricket, with 26 representing Australia, including some of the sport’s biggest names – Pat Cummins, Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry, and Steve Smith,” Cricket NSW Chief Cricket Performance Officer Greg Mail said. The scholarship announcement comes on the back of Drury representing the Australian U19s and being named the Country Cricket NSW Youth Female Cricketer of the Year. “I feel very honoured and proud to be able to play in the country pathway and to have been recognised with this award,” Drury said. The Cricketer of the Year award reflects not only her performances for NSW Country and Australia, but also the

dedication, professionalism and work ethic she has displayed throughout her cricket journey. Those qualities have long been evident to coaches, teammates and volunteers at Terrigal-Matcham Cricket Club, where Drury developed her passion for cricket before progressing through the representative pathway. “My love for the game and learning about it started in a TMCC shirt,” she said. “The club always has, and continues to, support me and all its female players. “I was lucky enough to be coached by Grace Dignam, who taught me so much about the game, and always inspires me to keep working hard, as did my coach Michael Phillips who played a huge role in my cricket development at the club. “I also had girls a few years older than me, like Emily Humphreys and Tara French, who guided and looked out for me.” For a community club, there are few greater rewards than seeing a junior player progress to the international stage while remaining a wonderful ambassador for grassroots cricket. Drury represented Australia on multiple occasions in 2025/26 after initially being selected for an U19 tour of Sri Lanka in September 2025. She impressed against quality international opposition on the multi-format tour, showcasing the composure and skill that have become trademarks of her game. As a left-arm off-spinner, she

consistently challenged batters while demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure, including impressive bowling figures throughout the series. Drury was among Australia’s standout performers during the under-19 tour of Sri Lanka, claiming nine wickets at an outstanding average of just 13.22, underlining her growing reputation as one of the country’s most promising young spin bowlers, and earning Player of the Match honours. Drury said the international tour would aid her development for future series. “Always being open to trying new things and taking every piece of advice or opportunity that came my way, even if I was unsure about it, was really important,” she said. “I also think it was pretty cool to experience playing in different conditions and having to adapt to them, as well as understanding how my role in the team could change from game to game.” Her performances led to selection in the 2026 Under-19 Women’s Tri-Series hosted in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, where Australia faced England and Sri Lanka in preparation for future international campaigns. The squad featured many of the country’s most exciting young players and was guided by an experienced coaching staff led by Kristen Beams, with Australian greats Lisa Keightley and Meg Lanning also involved in player development. Throughout the tournament, Drury continued to contribute with both her bowling and her energy in the field, further

strengthening her credentials as one of Australia’s emerging prospects. “It was quite surreal,” she said. “Wearing the Aussie uniform is definitely not something I

ever thought I would be lucky enough to do. “I think I was in disbelief most of the time but loved every second of it.” The international representation, and recognition through awards and

scholarships, has Drury firmly on the pathway to becoming a professional cricketer, following in the footsteps of Terrigal-Matcham alumna Grace Dignam (ACT Meteors) and Tara French (NSW Breakers).