Issue 65 of Wyong Regional Chronicle

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March 13, 2015

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Issue 65

Wyong projects gain support from both sides of politics

Wyong Hospital

yong Council’s vision to transform the Central Coast was for Wyong Ms Sandra announcements at the party leaders there today given strong endorsement by local state election candidates at Kerr gave a personal forum included: Two new say they are impressed by commitment to push NSW Service Centres Council’s vision and are its election forum held on Wednesday, March 4.

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Council has developed 39 projects and initiatives to transform Wyong Shire, create jobs and build vital infrastructure.

Mayor Cr Doug Eaton, who hosted the forum, said Council has been working tirelessly towards achieving its vision but there is only so much that Council can do alone.

“We need more jobs and infrastructure for our community and we need serious commitments

from the state government to make them a reality,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

O p p o s i t i o n Spokesperson for the Central Coast Ms Linda Burney said a Labor Government would commit to a $141 million infrastructure fund, support the Link Rd Project and an upgrade to Wyong Hospital.

Minister for the Central Coast Mr Rob Stokes reconfirmed a commitment for a $600

million infrastructure fund for the Central Coast and hinted Wyong Shire would receive at least half of those funds.

“We are expected to take the overwhelming majority of growth in the Shire, 70,000 by 2031, so we should get the lion’s share of the infrastructure spend and it was encouraging to hear Minister Stokes acknowledge that,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

Liberal candidate

for a key project in Wyong Shire, CASAR Park, which Council has identified as a key vision project for jobs and needs a $14 million injection of funding from the State Government.

“This great community project will inject $10 million into the local economy, create 100 full time jobs and attract 70,000 visitors a year and it is great to hear it is on the State Government’s agenda,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

Other key

(community hubs) for Toukley and Wyong

by Minister Stokes; $130,000 for Warnervale Community Centre by Ms Burney; $100,000 for a skate park in the Shire by Ms Burney; and $2 million for the Tuggerah Lakes Estuary

by Labor candidate for The Entrance Mr David Mehan.

“This process has been worthwhile and has now delivered results for our community.

“It was heartening to hear all candidates and

looking closely at our 39 projects.

“Our projects are shovel ready now and will kick start the local economy and with State Government support, they will deliver jobs and opportunities for our community, and at the end of the day, that is what we are all here for,” said mayor Cr Eaton.

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Media release, 4 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

Directory

P2 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

Wyong services directory

Chance to Win! yong Regional Chronicle and Circus Royale are giving three lucky readers the chance to win a family pass to the circus at Mingara Recreation Club.

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The family pass, valued at $100, will permit two adults and two children entry to the circus and grandstand seating.

Show times are 7:30pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Saturday at 4pm and 7:30pm and 11am on Sundays from March 19 to 29. Winners can pick from shows from March 25 to 29.

As entertainment goes the Circus Royale, featuring international acts at Mingara Recreation Club, is as traditional as it gets. The steel Globe of Death is four metres wide and motorbikes are maneuvered around the cage at speeds of up to 80km/h. It’s nail-biting stuff!

To win one of the three family passes, write your name, address and phone number on the back of an envelope and send to Wyong Regional Chronicle Circus Royale competition PO Box 1056, Gosford, NSW, 2250, by the close of business Monday, March 23.

Winners will be notified by phone on Tuesday, March 24.

The winners of last edition’s Wyong Regional Chronicle Australian Reptile Park competition were Colleen Goodhew of Narara and Elissa Jack of Wyong.

Ambulance, Police, Fire 000 Family Drug Support 1300 368 186 G-line - Gambling Helpline 1800 633 635 Credit Helpline 1800 808 488 Child Support Agency 13 12 72 Australian Injury Helpline 1800 223 363 Veteran Affairs Network 1300 551 918 Mens Domestic Violence 1800 000 599 Sexual Assault Resource 1800 199 888 Gay and Lesbian Counselling 1800 184 527 Gay and Lesbian Support 1800 249 377 Youth Sexuality Network 4320 2856 Vietnam Veterans 1800 043 503 Victims Support Services 1800 633 063 Translation and Interpreting Service 13 14 50

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Organisations Aboriginal Legal Service 8842 8000 Community Options 4351 3388 Bungree Aboriginal Association 4397 7700 Mingaletta 4342 7515 Aboriginal Home Care 4321 7215 Drug & Alcohol rehab 4388 6360 Respite Care Options 4351 3388 Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Health 4351 1040 Darkinjung Local Land Council 4351 2930

Accommodation Dept. of Housing Wyong 4352 4400 Wyong accomodation support program 4351 0365 Pacific Link Com Housing 4324 7617 Samaritans Youth Services 4351 1922 Youth Accom Hotline 1800 424 830 Temporary Accommodation 1800 152 152

Prize winners may be required to pick up their prize from our Gosford office. Entries may be passed on to prize providers for marketing purposes.

Family and Relationships Parents Helpline 132 055 Oasis Youth Centre 4353 9799 Horizons (For families) 4351 5008 Interrelate - Family Relationships 1300 736 966

Animal Rescue

Your independent community newspaper, published fortnightly on Fridays and focusing on issues specifically affecting post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263 Alison, Bateau Bay, Berkeley Vale, Blue Bay, Blue Haven, Budgewoi, Budgewoi Peninsula, Buff Point, Bushells Ridge, Canton Beach, Cedar Brush Creek, Chain Valley Bay, Charmhaven, Chittaway Bay, Chittaway Point, Colongra, Crangan Bay, Dooralong, Doyalson, Doyalson North, Durren Durren, Fountaindale, Frazer Park, Freemans, Glenning Valley, Gorokan, Gwandalan, Halekulani, Halloran, Hamlyn Terrace, Jilliby, Kangy Angy, Kanwal, Kiar, Killarney Vale, Kingfisher Shores, Lake Haven, Lake Munmorah, Lemon Tree, Little Jilliby, Long Jetty, Magenta, Mannering Park, Mardi, Moonee, Norah Head, Noraville, Ourimbah, Palmdale, Palmgrove, Point Wolstoncroft, Ravensdale, Rocky Point, San Remo, Shelly Beach, Summerland Point, Tacoma, Tacoma South, The Entrance, The Entrance North, Toowoon Bay, Toukley, Tuggerah, Tuggerawong, Tumbi Umbi, Wadalba, Wallarah, Warnervale, Watanobbi, Woongarrah, Wybung, Wyee, Wyee Point, Wyong, Wyong Creek, Wyongah, Yarramalong

Health

Wires 1300 094 737

Wyong Hospital 4394 8000 Cancer Hotline 131 120 Mental Health info Service 1300 794 991 Beyond Blue (Depression) 1300 22 4636

Counselling Mensline - talk with a bloke 1300 789 978 Lifecare Family Services 1300 130 225 CatholicCare: 4356 2600 Relationship Australia: 1300 364 277 Interrelate: 1800 449 118

Community Women’s Health Centre 4351 1152

Problems, Habits & Addiction G-Line Telephone Counsel 1800 633 635 Gamblers Anonymous 9726 6625 Alcoholics Anonymous 4323 3890 Narcotics Anonymous 4325 0524 Quitline 131 848

Emergency Police Assistance Line 131 444 Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 Wyong Police Station 4356 6099 Energy Australia 13 13 88 Gas Emergency 131 909 Wyong Shire Council 4350 5555 Marine Rescue - Central Coast 4325 7929 SES - Storm and Flood Emergency 132 500

Publisher/Editor: Cec Bucello

Journalist: Kaitlin Watts Sales: Val Bridge Matthew Miller

Graphic Design: Justin Stanley

Welfare Services

editorial@centralcoastnews.net Ph: 4325 7369

Coast Community Centre 4325 3510 Horizons Family Services 4351 5008 Meals on Wheels Wyong - 4333 6942 Department of Community Services Wyong - 4352 6500 The Salvation Army 4325 5733 Samaritans Emergency Relief 4393 2450 St Vincent De Paul Society HELPLINE 4323 6081

Crisis Services and Helplines Lifeline - 24 hr. 13 11 14 Suicide Helpline 1800 191 919 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Parents Helpline 13 20 55 Indigenous Call Centre 136 380 Family Relationship Advice Line 1800 050 321

Assistant Journalists: Madeline Parker Victoria Power Caitlin Reid

Next Edition: Wyong Regional Chronicle 66

Deadline: March 25 - Publication date: March 27 Contributions welcomed Letters to the editor and other contributions are welcomed and should be addressed to: Wyong Regional Chronicle, PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250.

Contributions should be in Word format sent via email to: editorial@centralcoastnews.net, on disks or by handwritten letter if these facilities are not available to you. Contributions must include the date, your name, address and phone numbers. Name and Suburb will be published.

Anonymous contributions will not be included. Submissions may be published in edited form.

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February 13, 2015

Paul Tonkin is Citizen of the Year Woy Woy lawyer Mr Paul Tonkin was named Gosford Council’s 2015 Citizen of the Year on Australia Day, January 26, for his dedicated and passionate advocacy to ensure the Central Coast community has the best possible public health services.

Gosford Council general manager Mr Paul Anderson said Mr Tonkin was a dedicated and passionate advocate for the Central Coast community, giving his time and support to numerous organisations.

Mr Tonkin, who has been chairman of the Central Coast Local Health District Board for the last four years, first became a member of the Board in 1994.

Since that time, he has also served on the former Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service Board.

“Over those 20 years, Paul has strongly and effectively represented the Central Coast

community in order to achieve the best possible public health services,” said Mr Anderson.

“He has been instrumental in many major milestones including the opening of the Woy Woy Hospital Rehabilitation Unit, Cancer Centre at Gosford and the recently announced funding for the redevelopment of Gosford Hospital.”

Mr Tonkin is also a director on the Board of Woy Woy Community Aged Care, deputy chair of ET Australia and was the founding director of the Central Coast Regional Chamber of Commerce.

He has a strong link to the Peninsula, joining the Tonkin Drysdale law firm in 1991.

Mr Tonkin has been involved in coaching for junior cricket and soccer at both club and Central Coast representative level for many years, and also had involvement in the development of the Central Coast Mariners.

Media release, 26 Jan 2015 Paul Anderson, Gosford Council

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Issue 63

New owners plan $100 million investment at Kooindah Waters

February 18, 2015

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Issue 102

Edition 362

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Community Access

An artist’s designs of part of the development

The offical welcoming ceremony at Kooindah Waters

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he new owners of Kooindah Waters, Harman Global Holdings, were officially welcomed to Wyong Shire by Council’s mayor Doug Eaton at a ceremony on Saturday, January 31.

This was the first time any local residents had been in the underpass, which is decorated with names of historical significance referring to the Aboriginal first people, to the settlers, boats and some of the local streets.

Email, 4 Feb 2015 Ina Fine, Woy Woy Members of the Mingaletta community at the smoking ceremony for the Woy Woy railway underpass

THIS ISSUE contains 30 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

The Harman Group residential and resort of the resort means have plans to add a state- development and is hundreds of local jobs of-the-art hotel, more pleased to welcome them will be created during housing and a conference to Wyong Shire. construction alone with centre to the resort.

“Tourism is one of many more to follow Mayor Cr Eaton, who the major planks in our once completed. was at the official ground- Economic Development “It is great to see a breaking ceremony on Plan as it is a big job company of such high Saturday, said the Sydney generator, especially for standing believe in the based company have a our youth. potential of our area and proven track record in “Further development are willing to invest over

$100 million here – this is great news for our community.”

The CEO of Harman Group, Mr Ethan He, applauded Council for its help during the due diligence process and for their enthusiasm for the project.

“Mayor Doug Eaton met with us personally and has impressed us with his vision for the area,” Mr He said.

“We love Wyong, its The resort will beautiful environment continue to be managed and great location, close by the Accor group under to Sydney, made the the Mercure brand and decision to invest here Troon Golf will continue pretty easy. to manage the golf course.

“We are looking The 18 hole golf course forward to working was designed by Ross with Council and the Watson and Craig Parry community through the and is currently ranked in future development of the Top 100 golf courses Kooindah resort and in Australia. establishing Wyong Media release, 4 Feb 2015 Shire as a true tourism Wyong Council media destination.”

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

The proposal includes a total of 572 residential units within three towers, erected on a podium level which itself will offer a hotel, shops, restaurants, a tavern, and cinema, all accessed via a public thoroughfare which will be created through the site linking the City Centre to the Waterfront.

The podium level will also incorporate several levels of commercial office space.

The towers have been labelled the Mann St Tower, Baker St Tower and the Georgianna Terrace Tower.

The 33 storey Mann St Tower will include a ground level mixed use space and four levels of commercial space, with the tower comprising 29 levels of apartments.

It would comprise five retail units, one commercial tenancy, a cafe/ restaurant and a residential commercial foyer, as well as two cinemas and amenities, all on the ground floor.

Levels one to four would comprise commercial space with the applicant suggesting the Australian Tax Office as a potential tenant.

Levels five to 33 would see 58 one-bedroom apartments, 116 twobedroom apartments and 58 three-bedroom apartments.

The 32 storey Baker St Tower will include a ground level mixed use space; two levels of retail/commercial space, and four levels of hotel rooms, with the tower comprising 26 levels of apartments.

The ground floor would comprise a residential/hotel foyer, hotel kitchen and administration and serving facilities, while level one would house a supermarket and five retail units.

Level two would provide commercial floor space and levels three to six would provide 80 hotel rooms.

The remaining 26 tower levels, from seven to 32, would comprise 52 onebedroom apartments, 104 two-bedroom apartments and 52 three-bedroom apartments.

Finally, the 22 storey Georgiana Terrace Tower will include a ground level

mixed use space and two levels of retail/commercial space, with the tower comprising 22 levels of apartments.

The ground floor would see two retail units, a residential foyer and servicing facilities, while level one would see further retail floor space, including a cafe/restaurant and bar/ tavern, and level two would comprise commercial floor space.

Levels three to 24 would comprise 88 two-bedroom apartments and 44 threebedroom apartments.

In addition to this, the development will include four levels of basement parking accommodating 678 cars, as well as significant open space and landscaping.

According to the development application, submitted by New Hong

Kong Macau Australia, Pty Ltd, the development stems from Gosford Council’s eagerness to revitalise the City Centre.

The site itself, which comprises the former Brisbane Waters County Council Building, the former Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), and Froggy’s, a former skating rink, has had a chequered history, with several proposals having been considered in the past which evoked considerable controversy.

In 2005, development consent was issued by the Department of Planning for a mixed commercial and residential development.

This consent was commenced via the partial demolition of some of the existing buildings on site.

Under a separate consent, initial works began on the temporary

dismantling of the clock tower, with the material from that work now being stored within the building.

Since the time of these initial partial demolition works however, the site has been deserted, with the buildings and the site subsequently being boarded up and becoming a target for vandalism and graffiti.

The heritage listing of part of the site is recognised in the design, with the front portion and first floor staircase of the former Brisbane Waters County Council building being incorporated within the design.

A number of public submissions have already been lodged in support of the proposal.

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

DA47046 2015, 30 Jan 2015

Issue 64

Land and Environment Court conciliation conference fails to reach agreement

Minister for Roads and Freight Mr Duncan Gay and Gosford Council mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna at the official opening of the pedestrian underpass at the Rawson Rd level crossing

Members of the Mingaletta Community held a smoking ceremony on Saturday, January 31, at the Woy Woy railway pedestrian underpass to cleanse the earth and help the underpass become part of the Peninsula.

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$180 million development application has been lodged with Gosford Council which would see the construction of three towers comprising retail, residential and commercial space on the former Spurbest site at 50-70 Mann St, Gosford.

Rail underpass second stage funded, but not third The State Government has committed an extra $7 million to allow the completion of the second stage of the Woy Woy Rd railway underpass project to be completed.

However, the Government appears to have abandoned any commitment to funding the third stage of the project – the realignment of Woy Woy Rd through the Bays area, now describing the project as a twostage project.

The commitment was announced at the opening on Thursday, February 12, of a pedestrian underpass at the Rawson Rd level crossing, which cost $6.2 milllion alone.

At the opening, Minister for Roads and Freight Mr Duncan Gay

said the project would eventually close the existing level crossing at Rawson Rd. “Gosford Council has completed stage one work, which included providing a new pedestrian and cyclist underpass alongside Rawson Rd and below the railway tracks,” Minister Gay said.

“Pedestrian access to the underpass has also been upgraded along Waterview and Railway Sts. “The NSW Government provided funding for the work as part of the $45 million commitment to build an underpass to replace the Woy Woy rail level crossing.

“But we have committed an additional $7 million to fulfil our commitment to remove the existing crossing and replace it with a safer option.

“That is a total of $52 million

to deliver the two stages the community has been waiting for,” Minister Gay said.

Mr Holstein said the completion of stage two work would enable the full closure of the Rawson Rd level crossing.

“Stage two work involves upgrading and extending Railway St and Nagari Rd and a new vehicle underpass and bridge over Woy Woy Creek at Bulls Hill,” Mr Holstein said.

“Four years ago I stood here and said the NSW Government was committed to this project and I am so proud to see stage one completed.

“For too long our community was neglected under former governments and I am so proud the NSW Government is listening and delivering what our community

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Issue 103 Edition 363

February 27, 2015

n on-site h e a r i n g of a Land and Environment Court conciliation conference was held on Tuesday, February 17, between lawyers representing Wyong Council and the Association for Better Living and Education (ABLE), a Church of Scientology offshoot.

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March 4, 2015 23 February 2015

Three towers planned for former Spurbest site

Gosford City deputy mayor Cr Jim Macfadyen, Gosford City's 2015 Citizen of the Year Mr Paul Tonkin and Gosford City mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna

Smoking ceremony for underpass

www.centralcoastnews.net

Peninsula

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expects and deserves.”

Mr Holstein said that the Government had not committed to stage three because stage two would not be started until the West Gosford intersection had been completed.

“We can’t really commence major works there until we’ve got West Gosford well in control and a lot of the burden has eased there.

“We wouldn’t want to have both major roads leading into the Peninsula clogged with road works.

“I will be pushing for stage three funding nearing completion of stage two,” he said.

“Even when Minister Gay was up the other day making this announcement, he knows that I’m going to be looking for the next stage as this progresses.”

Gosford Council’s director of Construction and Operations Mr Stan Antczak said local artists had been invited to carry out an art installation within the tunnel and access ramps with a focus on ‘names’ and their connection to people and places of the Peninsula.

“The first phase of the art installation is expected to be completed mid next month with phase two due for completion in March next year,” Mr Antczak said.

Media release, 12 Feb 2015 Siobhan McCarthy, Office of Duncan Gay MP Media statement, 20 Feb 2015 Chris Holstein, Member for Gosford

THIS ISSUE contains 51 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Ya r r a m a l o n g Community Action Group media liaison Mr William Love said Yarramalong residents were given another opportunity to condemn the scientologists’ attempt to establish a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre within existing buildings in the Bertini Estate.

When the plan was first submitted to Council, it caused a furore in the community and resulted in more than 80 submissions being lodged with Wyong Council by angry ratepayers.

After analysing submissions from both sides, Wyong Council last year refused the application to conduct the rehabilitation clinic.

ABLE appealed the decision and the matter is currently before the Land and Environment Court.

Local residents who had prepared written submissions were invited into the grounds

The existing guest house which would be used as one of the accommodation buildings

of the Bertini estate for the conference to air their views to the Court Conciliation Commissioner.

Flanked by barristers and solicitors from both parties, Commissioner Brown took notes while standing in the estate’s driveway as speaker after speaker presented their case.

First was Yarramalong Community Action Group chairman Ron Lee who said he hoped the NSW Land and Environment Court would follow the lead given by the Victoria Court of Appeal Tribunal which recently upheld the Yarra Ranges Council decision not to approve a Narconan drug rehabilitation facility in the Victorian town of

Warburton.

This plan was proposed

by ABLE, the same group that had made the Yarramalong application.

“A substantial reason for the Tribunal’s decision was concern for public safety,” Mr Lee said.

“In a 16 page submission, Warburton police detailed scores of incidents involving patients, including extensive property damage, assaults on staff; in one instance a patient threatening a staff member with an axe, addicts escaping from the centre and being rounded up in the streets, and ambulances refusing to enter the premises without a police escort.

“The ABLE security

measures had failed miserably.

“There is no doubt that if the Yarramalong rehab facility was given approval, the same sort of thing would happen and this is causing enormous concern,” Mr Lee said.

An immediate next door neighbour Mrs Julie Blair, whose house is within 50 metres of the Bertini Estate gates, told the Commissioner she was terrified at the prospect of the clinic obtaining permission to operate, especially with patients receiving detoxification treatment so close to her home.

“My young children walk past the Bertini Estate gates every day to look after their horses in our paddocks.

“With drug addict patients wandering around the rehab clinic grounds and possibly in and out of the property there is every reason to fear for the children’s safety.

“Hopefully the Court will reject the ABLE appeal.”

Bill Love, a Yarramalong property owner for 42 years, said one of the biggest problems for the proposed scientology rehabilitation centre was the danger of major flooding of access roads and on the river flats that are part of the Bertini Estate.

“Bunning Creek Rd is very flood prone and it is the only vehicle access into the ABLE premises.

“The last big flood

in 2012 resulted in the road being closed and telephone and computer communications being cut for almost a week.

“The flood waters swirled a meter deep through buildings in the Bertini Estate.

“We are told that up to 50 people will be occupying the Church of Scientology rehab centre full time and part time.

“In a flood, what would happen if an ambulance was required in an emergency?

“Police cars, evacuation vehicles and rescue teams would not get through.

“Nor would staff or supply vehicles be able to get in and out of the property,” he said.

Other residents opposing the clinic put their views to Commissioner Brown for more than an hour, after which he asked the legal teams of both Council and ABLE to attend the Conciliation hearing inside the premises.

The next day, February 18, the council lawyer issued a statement that the conciliation conference did not lead to a resolution of matters between the parties.

The hearing will reconvene in Sydney on April 2.

Media release, 24 Feb 2015 William Love, Yarramalong Community Action Group

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Mountain Districts communities reaffirm Gasfield Free stance

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March 13, 2015

Council to expand Bullion St carpark Gosford Council has agreed to acquire and incorporate two house blocks into the adjacent Bullion St carpark in Umina.

It will prepare a planning proposal to include the house sites in Alfred St and Bullion St in the land reservation acquisition map of Gosford LEP 2014 so the land can incorporated into the existing council car park.

A report by planning staff to the council said that the proposal was recommended in a transport plan for the “Umina Beach Village Centre”, which had resulted from the Peninsula Urban Directions Strategy.

According to the report, it was necessary to develop plans to

maximise the benefits this new development can bring to centres like the Umina commercial area.

“Such plans have the aim of integrating building design, traffic management and public domain improvements; improving sustainability outcomes and achieving good quality community planning.

“The goal is to provide attractive development and, importantly, the physical and commercial renewal of the centres.”

The strategy “recommended the extension of the business zone that applied to the Umina Beach Village Centre”.

“It was identified that the extension of the business zone would result in associated changes

to landuse patterns and the addition of floor space potential in the village which will alter the traffic and pedestrian usage patterns and levels within the centre.

“Infrastructure changes were identified to accommodate the growth potential of the centre.

“Council resolved to prepare a Transport Management and Accessibility Plan for the Umina Beach Village Centre.”

The Plan recommended two properties, which adjoin the northern side of the large Council carpark located between Alfred St and Bullion St, be used for car parking purposes.

Gosford Council Agenda GOV.15, 24 Feb 2015

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Issue 65

Wyong projects gain support from both sides of politics

Candidate forum held by environment network The Community Environment Network, together with the Total Environment Centre and Nature Conservation Council of NSW, held a candidates forum in Woy Woy on Wednesday, March 4.

Photo: Harry Stranger

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ver 400 residents of the Mountain Districts and the Central Coast joined together on Saturday, February 28, to declare the Mountain Districts communities Gasfield Free.

Sydney Morning Herald journalist and former rugby player Peter FitzSimons and Wyong Council Cr Greg Best spoke in support of the community’s intent to keep the coal seam gas industry out of the area’s water catchment and aquifers.

During the event, held at Neills Park in Kulnura, declaration documents were handed through the assembled crowd until they reached community elders Ed Morris and

Betty Bromfield, before being handed to youth ambassadors Leilani Healey and Jake Bright.

Gasfield Free Mountain Districts co-convenor Simon Perry said: “Residents of the Mountain Districts recognise that we have an intergenerational responsibility for the stewardship of this land and our water.”

“The passing of the declaration statement through everyone’s hands, to our respected elders

and onto our area’s young ambassadors represents this shared responsibility.”

The Gasfield Free Mountain Districts Declaration states: “We, the residents of the Mountain Districts declare this district is Gasfield Free.”

“We recognise that our districts are protected by the will of the community.

“We made this decision through community consultation and engagement.

“We recognise that our best defence is by standing together.

“If we detect any activity by gas companies here, we will raise an alert and ask their representatives to leave.

“We are committed to stopping gasfield industrialisation in our communities.

“In doing this we protect our water, soil, air and future.

“We will protect our communities from the destructive impacts of the coal seam gas industry.”

Mr Perry said: “Thank you to everyone who came

to the event from the area, including Cr Hillary Morris, Cr Gabby Bowles, Greens candidate Kate da Costa and Labor candidate Kathy Smith.”

“With the NSW State election now just a few weeks away, it is time for all standing candidates to take heed of the wishes of the community, and if elected, to support legislation that permanently protects our aquifers, water catchments, farms and areas of environmental importance.”

The Declaration ceremony reiterates the united will of the community

against coal seam gas, after a house-to-house survey conducted during 2014 found that 98.2% of the area’s residents oppose coal seam gas activity.

Recently both Wyong and Gosford Councils unanimously passed twinned resolutions reaffirming the respective council’s stance against coal seam gas, and standing in support of the Mountain Districts’ residents.

Media release, 3 Mar 2015 Simon Perry, Gasfield Free Mountain Districts The audience at the candidate forum in Woy Woy and (inset) some of the candidates

Around 60 people attended to hear the candidates and to ask questions.

All lower house parties were represented with Kate da Costa and Doug Williamson representing the Greens, Jake Cassar attending as an independent, Kathy Smith and Jeff Sundstrom for Labor and Minister for the Environment Rob Stokes representing the Liberal party.

Opening speakers included Gasfield Free Mountain Districts Committee co-convenor Mr Simon Perry who spoke on coal seam gas and protecting the Central Coast’s drinking water; and Nature Conservation Council of NSW CEO Ms Kate Smolski who also spoke on Planning Issues and the need for integrity

and community involvement in planning.

Community Environment Network chairman Mr John Asquith chaired the forum.

“The candidates responded to a range of questions on the environment and sustainability from the audience,” Mr Asquith said.

“This included; coal and coal seam gas, planning, corruption, climate change, the Wallarah 2 mine and biodiversity.

“Candidates provided thoughtful answers and we were very grateful for their attendance.

“The biggest issue for the Community Environment Network is planning, as locally we see an increase in spot rezoning, which raises questions in regard to corruption and donations,” Mr Asquith said.

Specific local issues such as council amalgamations, Bambara Rd in Brisbane Water National Park and freight rail noise at Koolewong were raised by locals.

Media release, 5 Mar 2015 John Asquith, Community Environment Network

THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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yong Council’s vision to transform the Central Coast was for Wyong Ms Sandra announcements at the party leaders there today given strong endorsement by local state election candidates at Kerr gave a personal forum included: Two new say they are impressed by commitment to push NSW Service Centres Council’s vision and are its election forum held on Wednesday, March 4.

Council has developed 39 projects and initiatives to transform Wyong Shire, create jobs and build vital infrastructure.

Mayor Cr Doug Eaton, who hosted the forum, said Council has been working tirelessly towards achieving its vision but there is only so much that Council can do alone.

“We need more jobs and infrastructure for our community and we need serious commitments

from the state government to make them a reality,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

O p p o s i t i o n Spokesperson for the Central Coast Ms Linda Burney said a Labor Government would commit to a $141 million infrastructure fund, support the Link Rd Project and an upgrade to Wyong Hospital.

Minister for the Central Coast Mr Rob Stokes reconfirmed a commitment for a $600

million infrastructure fund for the Central Coast and hinted Wyong Shire would receive at least half of those funds.

“We are expected to take the overwhelming majority of growth in the Shire, 70,000 by 2031, so we should get the lion’s share of the infrastructure spend and it was encouraging to hear Minister Stokes acknowledge that,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

Liberal candidate

for a key project in Wyong Shire, CASAR Park, which Council has identified as a key vision project for jobs and needs a $14 million injection of funding from the State Government.

“This great community project will inject $10 million into the local economy, create 100 full time jobs and attract 70,000 visitors a year and it is great to hear it is on the State Government’s agenda,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

Other key

(community hubs) for Toukley and Wyong

by Minister Stokes; $130,000 for Warnervale Community Centre by Ms Burney; $100,000 for a skate park in the Shire by Ms Burney; and $2 million for the Tuggerah Lakes Estuary

by Labor candidate for The Entrance Mr David Mehan.

“This process has been worthwhile and has now delivered results for our community.

“It was heartening to hear all candidates and

looking closely at our 39 projects.

“Our projects are shovel ready now and will kick start the local economy and with State Government support, they will deliver jobs and opportunities for our community, and at the end of the day, that is what we are all here for,” said mayor Cr Eaton.

Media release, 4 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford - Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 - Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 - E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net - Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

www.wyongnews.org

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P3 3

Neighbour consent no longer required for minor developments change to the way Development Applications are publicly notified has been endorsed by Wyong Council

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Some housing developments in urban release areas or rural areas and secondary dwellings will now no longer have to be notified to surrounding residents They will still need to come to Council for approval and must meet the requirements of the relevant Development Control Plan (DCP).

If the application is seeking a variation to the DCP it will be publicly notified.

More intensive forms of development will still be notified including residential flat buildings, boarding housing, subdivisions, heritage items and commercial or industrial developments near residents.

Mayor Cr Doug Eaton

said: “This is actually an incentive for developers to get the design of their new housing estates right, from the start – as we will approve it faster if it meets the planning requirements.

“We need more housing to meet our growing population and we are sending a clear message that we want quality developments here.

“Homeowners now won’t need their neighbours consent to build a granny flat or garage on their land.

“If the design is good and the impact is minimal, it will be approved.”

Media statement, 11 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

News

Unused facilities left vacant despite urgent need ince the closure of Wyong Grove Public School as a result of its to be neglected.

“We want Wyong amalgamation with Wyong Public School at the end of 2013, Shire Council to know Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council has awaited the that there are options for opportunity to tender for use of the unused school space.

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Darkinjung CEO Mr Sean Gordon and The Salvation Army’s Major Gavin Watts met recently to discuss the lack of action, lamenting the fact that services for disadvantaged young people are under considerable threat at the same time as a suitable facility sits vacant.

“In mid-2014, Member for Wyong Darren Webber provided an undertaking to both of our organisations that the public school would be available for use by appropriate community groups under a tender situation,” Mr Gordon said.

“We have had no such notification and the school sits abandoned.

“At the same time, I

understand that Wyong Council will shortly close the doors on the building being utilised by the Salvation Army to provide services and facilities through its Oasis program to disadvantaged young people in Wyong.

“We are incredibly frustrated as both Gavin and I have a number of programs which would be ideal for the vacant school, offering real assistance to disadvantaged youth here on the Coast,” he said.

The Oasis Youth Support Network has been supporting disadvantaged and marginalised young people since 1992.

“We believe the old Wyong Grove Public School would be perfectly suited for some of our youth programs including

an Oasis Education Centre and our Pathways to Employment course,” said Major Watts.

“Oasis will continue to operate from Wyong servicing disadvantaged young people until October, when we will be forced to shut our doors with no alternative premises available at this point,” concluded Major Watts.

The State Government entered into an agreement with Wyong Council for a two year period for exclusive use of the site.

With no action taken

by Council to make use of the closed school, Darkinjung and The Salvation Army are calling for steps to be taken to ensure that the space does not continue

the school that would positively impact on our community.

“It is astounding that with social issues affecting a significant number of young people and families, both indigenous and nonindigenous, Council can be so callous and slaphappy in their approach,” said Mr Gordon.

“Services for our young people, particularly those most disadvantaged, are simply unacceptable and we are prepared to stand up and fight for those who cannot fight for themselves.”

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News

P4 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

Three Women in Local Government recognised

Council seeks greater contribution from coal mine akeCoal Pty has submitted an offer to Wyong Council to enter into a voluntary planning agreement relating to the approved mine under Lake Macquarie.

L Kirily Sheridan, Sara Foster and Jenna Hedge

hree Wyong Council staff have been recognised in the Minister’s Awards for Women in Local Government.

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Project Officer (Contracts and Project Management) Sara Foster, Environmental Management and Projects Officer (Open Space and Recreation) Kirily Sheridan and Team Leader Catchment Maintenance (Catchment Operations) Jenna Hedge were nominated for their outstanding contributions to local government and demonstrate the success of women in leadership roles.

Wyong Shire Cr and Chair of Council’s Status of Women’s Advisory Group (SOWAG), Ms Lisa Matthews, said these women set a high standard for Council and cement the intention of the Advisory Group.

“SOWAG aims to encourage more women to take on leadership roles in local government, by identifying strategies to develop leadership opportunities,” Cr Matthews said.

“Sara, Kirily and Jenna are great representatives of the face of women at Wyong Shire Council and are blazing the trail for more women to move into senior roles.

“They have been recognised for producing beneficial outcomes, providing inspiration, innovation and leadership and challenging gender stereotypes and conventions.

“Sara was a recipient of a scholarship from SOWAG to complete

a Springboard to Leadership Program for women, developing skills and knowledge that has empowered her to progress her career goals and inspire others.

“Given this, we are especially thrilled that Sara won the ‘Women in a Non-Traditional Role – Metropolitan’ category.

“She is one of four women, making up 13% of the workforce in a work area traditionally dominated my male employees,” she said.

The awards formed part of Local Government’s celebration of International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8.

Media release, 6 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

The draft voluntary planning agreement provides a legal framework to guide the collection of contributions from LakeCoal Pty Ltd toward community projects and establishment of a community advisory panel.

In December 2014 the NSW Minister for Planning approved the Chain Valley Extension Project to extend the current underground mining operations at the Chain Valley Colliery – 1.5 million tonnes of coal per year.

The project has approval for 14 years, represents investment of $105 million into the local economy and will provide $64 million to the State Government in royalties.

Under the agreement, LakeCoal will have to provide financial contributions, of around

$50,000 a year towards community projects, including parks, playgrounds, roads and other associated infrastructure for the benefit of the communities of Summerland Point, Gwandalan, Chain Valley Bay and Mannering Park.

Council resolved to amend the planning agreement in order to seek a greater contribution to fund community projects than the amount of $750,000 originally offered.

A Community Advisory Panel will also be established.

The agreement will now go out on public exhibition for 28 days and call for Expressions of Interest for two community members to sit on the Panel.

A third delegate will be a councillor who will help guide the panel in its decision making regarding the allocation

of funds.

A report detailing the comments received during the exhibition period will return to Council for review.

Mayor Cr Doug Eaton said: “I understand there is a lot of concern about the impact of mining in the community but as it has been approved by the State Government it is our role to ensure it delivers real benefits for our community.

“Jobs are our number one priority and this extension will ensure there are 120 jobs for another 14 years – which is great news for our Shire.

“LakeCoal will contribute at least $750,000 to infrastructure projects and the community will have a direct say on where this money will be spent.”

Media statement, 11 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

Every three minutes there are two reports of child abuse/neglect.* In 2008-2009, more than 930 new reports of child abuse per day. This means that there were two reports of abuse or neglect of a child for every three minutes of a day.

Our kids need our protection now!

Peninsula Community Access Edition 363

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News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

9 March 2015

Council to expand Bullion St carpark Gosford Council has agreed to acquire and incorporate two house blocks into the adjacent Bullion St carpark in Umina.

It will prepare a planning proposal to include the house sites in Alfred St and Bullion St in the land reservation acquisition map of Gosford LEP 2014 so the land can incorporated into the existing council car park.

A report by planning staff to the council said that the proposal was recommended in a transport plan for the “Umina Beach Village Centre”, which had resulted from the Peninsula Urban Directions Strategy.

According to the report, it was necessary to develop plans to

maximise the benefits this new development can bring to centres like the Umina commercial area.

“Such plans have the aim of integrating building design, traffic management and public domain improvements; improving sustainability outcomes and achieving good quality community planning.

“The goal is to provide attractive development and, importantly, the physical and commercial renewal of the centres.”

The strategy “recommended the extension of the business zone that applied to the Umina Beach Village Centre”.

“It was identified that the extension of the business zone would result in associated changes

to landuse patterns and the addition of floor space potential in the village which will alter the traffic and pedestrian usage patterns and levels within the centre.

“Infrastructure changes were identified to accommodate the growth potential of the centre.

“Council resolved to prepare a Transport Management and Accessibility Plan for the Umina Beach Village Centre.”

The Plan recommended two properties, which adjoin the northern side of the large Council carpark located between Alfred St and Bullion St, be used for car parking purposes.

Gosford Council Agenda GOV.15, 24 Feb 2015

Candidate forum held by environment network The Community Environment Network, together with the Total Environment Centre and Nature Conservation Council of NSW, held a candidates forum in Woy Woy on Wednesday, March 4.

The audience at the candidate forum in Woy Woy and (inset) some of the candidates

Around 60 people attended to hear the candidates and to ask questions.

All lower house parties were represented with Kate da Costa and Doug Williamson representing the Greens, Jake Cassar attending as an independent, Kathy Smith and Jeff Sundstrom for Labor and Minister for the Environment Rob Stokes representing the Liberal party.

Opening speakers included Gasfield Free Mountain Districts Committee co-convenor Mr Simon Perry who spoke on coal seam gas and protecting the Central Coast’s drinking water; and Nature Conservation Council of NSW CEO Ms Kate Smolski who also spoke on Planning Issues and the need for integrity

and community involvement in planning.

Community Environment Network chairman Mr John Asquith chaired the forum.

“The candidates responded to a range of questions on the environment and sustainability from the audience,” Mr Asquith said.

“This included; coal and coal seam gas, planning, corruption, climate change, the Wallarah 2 mine and biodiversity.

“Candidates provided thoughtful answers and we were very grateful for their attendance.

“The biggest issue for the Community Environment Network is planning, as locally we see an increase in spot rezoning, which raises questions in regard to corruption and donations,” Mr Asquith said.

Specific local issues such as council amalgamations, Bambara Rd in Brisbane Water National Park and freight rail noise at Koolewong were raised by locals.

Media release, 5 Mar 2015 John Asquith, Community Environment Network

THIS ISSUE contains 53 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

A Peninsula newspaper with in-depth Peninsula area news!

To reach out to a young person in need, please call our donation hotline on 1800 06 22 88 or donate online at www.youthoffthestreets.com.au. *AIHW, 2008-2009.

Youth Off The Streets is a registered charity helping the nation’s most disadvantaged youth to turn their lives around.

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P5

Unresolved State charge issue holding up development

News

Upgraded Ridgeway officially opened

he State Infrastructure Charge (SIC) in relation to new development proposals for new subdivisions continues to be unresolved.

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According to Highlight Consulting director Ms Helen Monks, it appears that high-level discussions are occurring from time to time within the relevant departments but the difference between an affordable charge per lot (eg. $30,000) and a realistic (i.e. financially accurate) number (eg >$58,000) is too great.

“In this region of NSW, $58,000 as a State contribution is simply not recoverable due to the relatively low value of land at retail level,” Ms Monks said.

“The indecision is now causing significant delays in land being produced for housing.”

According to a statement by Wyong Council in response, “Council and developers are experiencing delays (and additional holding costs) in cases where

DAs which propose subdivision cannot be approved until the SIC is determined by the Department of Planning and Environment”.

“Developers are required to pay SICs to help pay for new infrastructure such as roads, parks, playgrounds etc. needed for new or growing communities.

“Within a tight development market (which we have) developers need to maximise certainty in terms of the true cost of development.

“The fact that the SIC is unknown is stifling investment and local development potential, as it is a large unknown in terms of both time delay and financial value.

“The State Infrastructure Contribution (SIC) varies depending on the development – for

example the Warnervale Town Centre will be different from Precinct 7A. “The biggest problem to date with the SIC from our perspective, is the following: the NSW Department of Planning and Environment has not detailed what the actual SIC levy will be for certain areas such as Precinct 7A, and that is holding up development; the SIC in other areas is considered excessive and not feasible for development to occur in areas such as the Wyong Employment Zone; and there is no transparency in terms of SIC amounts collected, no auditing nor any funding of projects for Council to date.”

Media statement, 9 Mar 2015 Wyong Council Media Newsletter, 9 Mar 2015 Helen Monks, Highlight Consulting

Roundabout being improved

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hanged traffic conditions will be in place at night from Monday, March 16, for safety improvements on the Wyong Rd and Pindarri Ave roundabout at Berkeley Vale.

Roads and Maritime Services is installing kerbside safety barriers for around 45 metres and a retaining wall on the south east corner of the intersection.

The work also includes minor line marking improvements to improve safety at the roundabout.

Work will be carried out at night from Sundays to Thursdays

between 7pm and 5am and is expected to take three weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Media release, 9 Mar 2015 Roads and Maritime Services

Wyong Council deputy mayor Sue Webster, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Jamie Briggs and Member for Dobell Karen McNamara

heAssistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Jamie Briggs joined Member for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara recently to officially open the newly upgraded Ridgeway.

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“For too long local residents had to endure a bumpy ride along the Ridgeway,” Ms McNamara said.

“I’m pleased that the Government has delivered upon our $2.4 million commitment to upgrade this heavily used local road.

In less than 12 months, local residents have seen the Ridgeway transformed from ‘pothole alley’ into a safer road and smoother ride for motorists.

“The Ridgeway is a classic example of where our local infrastructure has not kept up with

population growth.

“With Lisarow rapidly growing, an increasing number of local motorists are using the Ridgeway to get from our inland suburbs to our coastal suburbs.

“The road had become unsafe and extremely dangerous in wet conditions.

“These works have significantly improved the condition of the road and will allow safer journeys.

“Last year I welcomed Minister Briggs to inspect ‘pot-hole alley’ and stressed the need for these works to be completed as

quickly as possible.

“I would like to thank Wyong Shire Council for partnering with the Federal Government to deliver these works,” Ms McNamara said.

The upgrade of the Ridgeway delivers on an election commitment to the electorate of Dobell.

The $2.4 million investment is part of over $72 million of projects and programmes delivered by Karen McNamara in the seat of Dobell in the last 17 months.

Media release, 27 Feb 2015 Luke Nayna, Office of Karen McNamara MP

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News

P6 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

New 52 guestroom hotel officially opened

Residential approvals simplified etting approvals to build a new home or ancillary structure has become easier now that Wyong Council has adopted Wyong Development Control Plan – Housing and Ancillary Structures following the public exhibition period.

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Diggers@theentrance chairman Peter O’Grady, Accor chief operating officer Simon McGrath, Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton and Liberal candidate for The Entrance Michael Sharpe

he Entrance has its first new hotel in over a decade with the Ibis Government who funded Styles hotel officially opening its doors at Diggers on Tuesday, it to the tune of $430,000 from the Destination March 3.

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Diggers have invested $8 million in the project and have entered into an agreement with The Accor Group to run the 52 guestroom hotel.

Accor Pacific chief operating officer Mr Simon McGrath spoke about his confidence in the Central Coast tourism and hospitality scene and congratulated Ibis Styles The Entrance hotel manager Christine Haynes and her team for an outstanding launch of the hotel.

“We are proud of the new relationships that Accor have formed with the team from Diggers and are absolutely delighted to be involved with this outstanding organisation that has been able to turn a project like this ibis Styles hotel from

a dream into reality,” Mr McGrath said.

“We congratulate Diggers@theentrance on the hotel opening and wish the team every success,” he said.

Wyong Council mayor Cr Doug Eaton, who was at the official opening, said the project aligns with Council’s Economic Development Plan to boost tourism in the Shire and was made possible with changes to the Local Environment Plan (LEP).

“Under our new LEP, we widened the permissible uses of club land to include tourist accommodation and retirement living,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

“We did this as we know how important tourism is to our economy in creating local jobs,

particularly for our youth, with this development alone creating 40 jobs in construction with eight ongoing.

“This hotel will draw even more people to the already popular tourist mecca of The Entrance and ensure those vital tourism dollars continue to flow into the Shire.”

Diggers CEO Mr Stephen Byfield said the project was originally conceived in 2010 and was completed in the last week of December 2014.

“The hotel opened on Christmas Day and to this point has exceeded all expectations and budgets with occupancy levels topping out every Saturday night,” said Mr Byfield.

The project has the support of State

NSW Regional Visitor Economy Fund.

Central Coast Tourism’s CEO Ms Robyne Abernethy said the project received State Government funding as it will contribute to the objective of doubling overnight visitor expenditure by 2020.

“With its magnificent views over Tuggerah Lakes, this new hotel fills a gap in the supply of quality, reasonably priced accommodation in this area,” Ms Abernethy said.

“The Entrance is a major drawcard for the Central Coast and needs more accommodation options like this to secure those vital tourism dollars that will benefit us all.”

Other key projects soon to get underway are a $40 million redevelopment of a key site at The Entrance and the $300 million redevelopment of Lakeside Plaza – the largest development ever seen in the Shire.

“The Entrance is literally being transformed and is fast becoming the economic and tourism centre of the Central Coast,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

Media release, 6 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media Media release, 3 Mar 2015 Ginni Post, Accor Pacific

Wyong is a key growth area, with a lot of new homes to be constructed over the coming years.

The Central Coast Regional Strategy (CCRS) identifies that by 2031, Wyong LGA needs to accommodate 70,000 more people; 39,500 new homes; and 27,000 new jobs.

The new housing controls seek to increase flexibility while protecting amenity for residential neighbourhoods.

The controls seek to increase the range of homes and designs which can be developed and allow merits of the development to be considered.

The quality of residential development in the Shire will be maintained – the main change is the application process will be simpler, and more flexible.

Mayor Cr Doug Eaton said: “We need to provide a lot of housing for the expected growth in our population and know there are many smaller lots of land going unused.”

“We are cutting red tape to allow for flexibility so we can provide a wide range of housing to support our growing population.”

Media statement, 11 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

Commuter car parking at Tuggerah is at a premium yong Council will look into providing extra temporary parking at Tuggerah Rail Station to address the current shortage while continuing to lobby RailCorp for a permanent solution to this ongoing problem for commuters.

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Mayor Cr Doug Eaton “Parking is at a premium at this station and current arrangements simply cannot cope with demand – our commuters deserve better.

“We have spent the last three months lobbying the State Government for 39 projects that will transform the Central Coast and a 250 space multi-level carpark at Tuggerah Station is one

of them.

“We will continue to push for this as we do need a permanent solution to this problem.

“We will not sit back, but will see what can be done by working with nearby landowners about increasing parking options in the short term.”

Media statement, 11 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P7

Labor commits to Warnervale Community Service

Election candidates confirmed

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andidates for the State Election to be held on Saturday, March 28, have been confirmed for the seats of Wyong, The Entrance and Swansea.

Seven candidates will contest the seat of Wyong comprising Berkeley Vale resident Vicki Dimond for The Greens; Stevan Dragojevic of Allambie Heights for the Christian Democratic Party; David Harris of Hamlyn Terrace for the Labor party; Sandra Kerr, of Bateau Bay for the Liberal Party; Annie McGeechan of Erskineville for the No Land Tax party; Berkley Vale’s Noel Holt will stand as an independent; and Alex Norwick of Bumbaldry will stand as an independent sponsored

by the Australia First Party.

Eight candidates will stand for the seat of Swansea comprising Nords Wharf resident Joshua Agland for the Animal Justice Party; Yasmin Catley of Swansea for the Labor party; Luke Cubis of Speers Point for the Christian Democratic Party; Paul Doughty of Balmain for the No Land Tax party; Garry Edwards of Belmont will stand as an independent as will Waitara’s Chris Osborne; Phillipa Parsons of Charlestown will stand for The Greens and Johanna

Uidam of Wangi Wangi will represent the Liberals.

Five candidates will contest the seat of The Entrance comprising Bateau Bay resident Hadden Ervin for the Christian Democratic Party; Sonia Lopreiato of Cecil Park for the No Land Tax party; Ourimbah’s David Mehan for Labor; Scott Rickard of Kanwal for The Greens; and Umina Beach based Michael Sharpe will represent the Liberals.

Website, 12 Mar 2015 Electoral Commission NSW

Phillipa promises to continue the good fight reens candidate for Swansea and high school teacher Ms Phillipa Parsons said that as an active member of the community, she would continue to fight against the government’s privatisation

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agenda.

From 2008 to 2012, Ms Parsons served as a Greens councillor on Lake Macquarie City Council.

“Throughout that term, I advocated for the community on a diverse range of issues, and successfully worked to bring policies protecting our environment and local heritage to fruition,” she said.

As a high school teacher, Ms Parsons said that she understands the value of public education, from preschool through to TAFE.

“Our youth unemployment rate is at 19% yet without affordable and accessible TAFE how will young people gain the skills and qualifications they need to get a job?” Ms Parsons said. “ S u c c e s s i v e governments, both Labor and Liberal, have slashed funding to TAFE. “The current Baird government is sounding a death knell in a bid to completely privatise it and only the Greens are fighting back,” she said.

Election

Ms Parsons states that a strong TAFE system will be integral in skilling up workers for new industries in renewable energy.

Ms Parsons described herself as passionate about caring for the environment and our communities.

“I will work for a kinder, more just and ecologically sustainable world for our children and grandchildren to inherit.”

Email, 11 Mar 2015 Phillipa Parsons, Greens candidate for Swansea

hadow Minister for the Central Coast Ms Linda Burney has announced that a Foley NSW Labor Government would commit $130,000 to keep Warnervale Family and Community Service operating for another year, whilst new funding sources are investigated.

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“ T o d a y ’ s announcement of $130,000 to be allocated for Warnervale Family Community Service is a great win for the local community and I commend Labor candidate for Wyong David Harris for his strong advocacy on this issue,” Ms Burney said.

Mr Harris said: “This organisation provides an outstanding service to the Warnervale community, with local welcome packs for new residents, a playgroup, successful community activities and a monthly edition of the ‘Wagtales’ magazine to

keep everyone informed of what is happening in the area.”

“The work carried out by the staff and volunteers is too important to lose and would be very difficult to replace.

“The community were very concerned and large numbers of residents attended meetings and signed a petition to try and save this important service – I was proud to stand with them on this issue,” Mr Harris said.

The Warnervale Family and Community Service lost its funding after an unsuccessful application to the Federal

Government.

“The social infrastructure of growing communities is so important – these connections must be maintained,” Ms Burney added.

“A NSW Labor Government will always put people and services first, making sure that communities are the focus of good governance.

“Not a single cent of this funding is dependent on the sale of the state’s electricity network.”

Media release, 4 Mar 2015 David Harris, Labor candidate for Wyong

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Election

P8 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

Dredging to commence in The Entrance Channel yong Council has been successful in securing a $200,000 state government grant towards dredging The Entrance Channel, according to an announcement by Minister for Natural Resources, Lands and Waters Mr Kevin Humphries on Wednesday, March 11.

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Liberal candidate for The Entrance Mr Michael Sharpe welcomed the news and said Council undertakes periodic dredging of the channel east of The Entrance Bridge, and when last done in 2012, removed approximately 30,000 m3.

“This is a great outcome for Wyong Council and the residents of The Entrance.

“The dredging is needed, it makes for a safer environment and

helps restore the natural beauty of the area.”

Council continues to monitor the tidal range in the lake at Long Jetty and the width of the channel.

Over the last 18 months, the channel has maintained a reasonable width and volume of water, despite some shallow shoaling upstream of the throat of the channel.

Late last year Council noted a slow reduction in width/tidal influence and set the wheels in motion

to commence dredging operations after Easter and for a program to run through the winter months.

Mr Sharpe said Council has all the approvals in place and equipment ready to go with works planned to commence in late April.

Predicted volumes are expected to be in the order of 40,000 - 60,000 m3.

Media release, 11 Mar 2015 Kerry Ruffels, Office of Michael Sharpe

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Pacific Highway to be upgraded if poles and wires are leased $100 million NSW Liberals and Nationals Government commitment to upgrade the Pacific Highway at Ourimbah has been announced.

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The announcement was made by NSW Premier Mike Baird, Roads Minister Duncan Gay and Minister for the Central Coast Rob Stokes on Thursday, January 29, with Member for Gosford Chris Holstein and candidate for The Entrance Michael Sharpe.

“Rebuilding NSW is our plan to unlock $20 billion in funding from the long-term lease of 49% of the poles and wires,” Mr Baird said.

“This will turbocharge NSW, with the Central Coast being a key focus for investment.

“The NSW Liberals and Nationals will be announcing a complete Central Coast Roads package under Rebuilding NSW shortly, but today I am delighted to announce we will reserve $100 million to duplicate the Pacific Highway to two lanes

in each direction from Ourimbah St, Lisarow to Glen Rd, Ourimbah.

“I’m proud that today’s announcement comes on top of already historic levels of funding for the Central Coast under the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government since March 2011,” Mr Gay said.

“We have invested $400 million to upgrade and repair state-owned roads in the region including the Central Coast Highway and Sparks Rd. “This project is essentially shovel ready which means that as soon as Rebuilding NSW is in place, we can get the diggers and grinders to work,” Mr Gay said.

Mr Stokes said the NSW Government was working to ensure the Central Coast receives the necessary infrastructure investment to support the

region’s growth.

“The NSW Government’s investment in the Central Coast from Rebuilding NSW also extends to funding under the Regional Schools Renewal program for education infrastructure to service growing student populations.

“The Central Coast is also eligible for funding under the funding reserved for investment in both environmental and tourism related assets, supporting regional heritage and the visitor economy.”

“I look forward to returning with the local MPs to mark the start of construction on this essential upgrade,” Mr Stokes said.

Media release, 29 Jan 2015 Mark Tobin, Office of Mike Baird MP

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8pm 27th March - Gosford Railway Cafe Central Coast’s first official Arts Party Meeting

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P9

Election

Foley makes major policy announcements for the Coast

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SW Labor Leader Mr Luke Foley ofďŹ cially launched Labor’s Central Coast campaign in Gosford on Monday, March 9.

Major policy announcements at the launch were highlighted by a record investment of more than half a billion dollars to redevelop Central Coast Hospitals for the future and boost ambulance services without privatising the electricity network.

As part of the plan to cater for the region’s future population growth, a Foley Labor Government would invest $200 million to redevelop Wyong Hospital and create 79 new acute adult inpatient beds, four new intensive care unit

beds, four new acute stroke patient beds, new emergency department treatment spaces, resuscitation rooms and two additional operating theatres.

The upgraded hospital will also feature an expanded paediatric unit, chemotherapy, medical imaging capability and mental health services.

Policy announcements also included: a brand new Nurse Walk-in Centre on the Coast that would be open seven days a week from 7.30am to 10pm and take some of the pressure off Gosford

and Wyong Hospitals; an expanded Ambulance Service on the Coast; $100 million to upgrade the PaciďŹ c Highway between Ourimbah and Lisarow and $45 million to complete the Warnervale Link Rd – without privatising electricity; intersection upgrades to Wyong Rd; $12 million for a Gosford Performing Arts Centre; racing tax relief for clubs at Wyong; Central Coast Jobs Summit in view of the 28% teenage unemployment rate; investigate bringing a new Government Department

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to the Central Coast; an immediate moratorium on coal seam gas activity on the Central Coast – extending to cover Mangrove Mountain; a permanent legislated ban on the Wallarah 2 mine; $2 million to clean up Tuggerah Lakes, mitigating stormwater pollution, foreshore erosion and loss of wetlands and marine life; and commitment to preserve and enhance Peat Island as public space. “Labor will invest in the local hospitals and schools of tomorrow on the Coast – and we won’t privatise the electricity network,� Mr Foley said. “Labor’s vision for

the Coast is simple – we don’t want people to feel forced to travel down to Sydney every day. “We want them to be able to live, study, work and achieve their dreams right here. “At this election, we’re proposing an unprecedented plan to invest in the Central Coast. “Labor will keep the electricity network in public hands “We’ll use the proďŹ ts our electricity network makes to fund improved services on the Coast. “A Foley Labor Government will rejuvenate Wyong and Gosford town centres. “The Liberals took

away scores of jobs at WorkCover, I’m interested in bringing a Government department or agency back. “Labor will legislate a permanent ban on Wallarah 2, we’ll preserve Peat Island from overdevelopment and we’ll impose a moratorium on coal seam gas activity on the Coast – covering Mangrove Mountain. “This is the strongest environmental platform Labor has ever put to the people of this region at an election,� Mr Foley said.

Media release, 9 Mar 2015 Alan Mascarenhas, OfďŹ ce of Luke Foley

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David Harris Labor for Wyong

Michael Sharpe and Mike Baird W r The Entrance

Building the roads, rail, hospitals and schools our community needs What The Entrance still needs A strong effective voice representing us in Government. I will fight for The Entrance electorate and our region.

Wins on the board • $2 million to improve traffic flow and ease congestion on the Central Coast Highway at Long Jetty [The Entrance] • $50,000 to improve safety for pedestrians and resident at the intersection of the Central Coast Highway and Coral Street

Commitments • $200 million toward Wyong Hospital • $100 million to upgrade the Pacific Highway at Ourimbah

Major Projects achieved by the Baird Liberal Government • Supported frontline services with an additional 315 nurses for Central Coast Hospitals, 128 new teachers and 61 new police officers for Central Coast Local Area Commands • $1.3 million to establish a new Satellite Dialysis and Training Unit on the Long Jetty Health Care site.

L The Entrance

I’m new to politics but I’m not new to working for our community.

Long time surf life saver, member of Apex and Rotary and fundraiser for many charities.

Putting the Central Coast ďŹ rst (\[OVYPZLK I` 9\[O 7\UJO >VSSLTP 9VHK >VVUNHYYHO 5:> 7YPU[LK I` 1LɈYPLZ 7YPU[PUN H 4PSWLYYH 9VHK 9L]LZI` 5:>

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News

P10 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 P1

2031 Your Future Central Coast The Environment

he Central Coast is known Wyong Council has prepared a comprehensive response to the discussion for its natural beauty, from coastline paper titled ‘2031 Your Future Central Coast’. The following is the seventh to shimmering and final chapter from the submission, focusing on Environment. waterways and unspoilt mountain centres. population, the following development needs to corridors, it is considered backdrop. the proposed should be be informed by a clear that Into the future, the matters

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The community is made up of families and retirees and attracts many because of the opportunities for commercial investment, relative affordability and ease of access to nearby large employment

Central Coast will continue to attract people, development and investment, with Wyong facilitating the greater proportion of growth.

To support the needs of the growing

GRANT APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR WALLARAH 2 COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

During 2015, up to $80,000 in grants will be made available to community organisations and groups through the Wallarah 2 Community Foundation.

Now in its third year, the Foundation is proud to have supported a variety of worthwhile local initiatives.

It looks forward to supporting further programs and initiatives that assist or benefit the environment, community wellbeing and education within the Wyong Shire LGA in 2015.

To view application criteria and download a grant application form, visit www.wallarah.com.au.

Applications close at 4pm on Monday 23rd March 2015.

addressed: Develop a clear understanding of the development / environment outcomes which will be supported for the region. Wyong needs to deliver houses, jobs and economic growth and in order to do so, the environmental outcomes need to be considered, agreed upfront and secured.

Extensive areas of biodiversity certification should be pursued similar to the process adopted for the North West and South West growth centres; Investment in State Government facilities e.g. schools, hospital expansion, public transport, road improvements, to match population needs; Provision of better pedestrian and cyclist facilities particularly serving recreation, tourist destinations and centres; and, Support for site specific development proposals where the private sector proposes significant local investment (spot rezonings).

Protecting our Environment and Heritage and Building Resilience to Natural Hazards Council values its natural environmental and heritage asset base and is keen to see key links and areas of highest value retained.

As mentioned previously however, the need to provide for orderly and economic

determination of the conservation outcome.

As such, a biodiversity certification process delivered by the State government (similar to that operational for the North West and South West growth centres) should be pursued to provide a clear direction for developers /Council and the community.

The absence of a detailed conservation plan leads to uncertainty with regard to future development and environmental outcomes.

This leads to frustration within the general community as there is no clarity as to the future purpose of their land, and provides uncertainty for developers.

It is essential that the major wildlife corridor planning issues be identified and resolved to inform expanding development footprints for the region.

Supporting state funding and incentives for private landholders should also be developed at this point in time to ensure that the regional biodiversity aims can be achieved.

It is therefore recommended that the draft Central Coast Regional Conservation Plan be released for comment, and the outcomes of such be incorporated into the RGIP. With regard to the location of biodiversity

vegetation corridor which traverses the northern part of the shire (eastwest) is not feasible, given that the majority of future residential and employment development is also expected to occur in this area.

The corridor as proposed includes large tracts of land which will require extensive rehabilitation.

Further, the fragmented ownership patterns in the east will make it difficult for future management.

Better conservation outcomes would be achieved through the embellishment and better maintenance of the existing north/south connections.

Protection and Opportunity for Productive Rural and Resource Land Rural and resource land is of importance to the region, not only for its food production potential, but also for the employment opportunities it creates.

The Wyong area has substantial areas which are of agricultural value, particularly in the valleys and on the plateaus to the west of the M1.

Council’s settlement strategy focusses most growth potential east of the M1 to limit impacts on the productive agricultural viability of these areas.

SREP 8 Central Coast Plateau Areas (now repealed) previously

established considerations for land of agricultural value.

Controls protecting agricultural outcomes are now embedded within the WLEP 2013.

Council is committed to undertaking a Rural Lands Study for rural land and rural land uses within Wyong Shire, the majority of which occur west of the M1 Pacific Motorway and south of Tuggerah Lake.

The Rural Lands Study will establish a clear framework for assessing development proposals in these areas.

This review will determine the extent and viability of existing agricultural production operations.

Having regard for the outcomes of this analysis and consideration of other various factors and constraints (mine subsidence, water supply, infrastructure provision, demand etc), will identify the suitability and feasibility of alternate land uses within these localities.

Such uses could include (but are not limited to) existing village/ hamlet expansion, ruralresidential development, tourism related industry and facilities or alternative /augmented /intensified agricultural land uses.

It is expected that the review of existing land uses, constraints and demand analysis will be completed by the end of June 2015, with the final Rural Land Strategy being completed by December 2015.

Your Future: Central Coast Wyong Council’s Submission, Dec 2014

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Wyong y g Regional g Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P11 11

Gateway Determination Process decision made without all the facts being disclosed he Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) appears to have been quite selective in what it has divulged in its media statement in the Wyong Regional Chronicle (Friday, February 13) regarding its business plans for value adding via upzoning some of its environmental land holdings in the Wyong Shire.

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Wyong Shire Council presided over a flawed business paper in November 2014 marking the commencement of the Gateway Determination Process for the DLALC, by omitting any reference to figures for current population and lots, and future land releases already approved in the same planning district.

A further serious omission by Wyong Shire Council was the failure to recognise and disclose some 1,750 existing leasehold residential park lots on its own land map for this planning district alongside the more traditional existing subdivisions.

Councilors approving the commencement of this Gateway Determination Process appear to have followed blindly.

Why might this be?

Well, because there is an apprehension of bias perhaps, on the part of Wyong Shire Council, considering the desire on the part of some councillors in a bygone era, to extinguish rates exemptions on the DLALC lands.

Might this be the real objective behind this Gateway Determination Process for the DLALC? Also, understanding or

Your independent local newspaper

-

Wyong Regional Chronicle PO Box 1056 Gosford 2250 or editorial@wyongnews.org See Page 2 for contribution conditions

omitting to show a true statistical position in such a major town planning matter fosters a strong perception of either, poor lack of knowledge, deception or negligence.

Additionally, the DLALC makes no reference to its devaluation of the North Wyong Shire Council Structure Plan 2012, nor its lack of respect for environmental zonings, specified green corridors, and the risk that their proposal creates in the incremental breakdown of related buffer zones.

The DLALC wrongfully states that the Halekulani Club is rezoning.

It is not.

They have a development application, previously refused by Council, for extensive residential housing, once again in an environmental zoning.

Such development

Letter, 1 Mar 2015 Graham Hansen, Lake Munmorah

Ph: 4325 7369

Photo: Harry Stranger

“We recognise that our to the event from the area, against coal seam gas, after ver 400 residents of the Mountain Districts and the Central Coast joined together on Saturday, February 28, to declare the best defence is by standing including Cr Hillary Morris, a house-to-house survey Cr Gabby Bowles, Greens conducted during 2014 together.

Mountain Districts communities Gasfield Free.

Sydney Morning Herald journalist and former rugby player Peter FitzSimons and Wyong Council Cr Greg Best spoke in support of the community’s intent to keep the coal seam gas industry out of the area’s water catchment and aquifers.

During the event, held at Neills Park in Kulnura, declaration documents were handed through the assembled crowd until they reached community elders Ed Morris and

Betty Bromfield, before being handed to youth ambassadors Leilani Healey and Jake Bright.

Gasfield Free Mountain Districts co-convenor Simon Perry said: “Residents of the Mountain Districts recognise that we have an intergenerational responsibility for the stewardship of this land and our water.”

“The passing of the declaration statement through everyone’s hands, to our respected elders

and onto our area’s young ambassadors represents this shared responsibility.”

The Gasfield Free Mountain Districts Declaration states: “We, the residents of the Mountain Districts declare this district is Gasfield Free.”

“We recognise that our districts are protected by the will of the community.

“We made this decision through community consultation and engagement.

“If we detect any activity by gas companies here, we will raise an alert and ask their representatives to leave.

“We are committed to stopping gasfield industrialisation in our communities.

“In doing this we protect our water, soil, air and future.

“We will protect our communities from the destructive impacts of the coal seam gas industry.”

Mr Perry said: “Thank you to everyone who came

candidate Kate da Costa and Labor candidate Kathy Smith.”

“With the NSW State election now just a few weeks away, it is time for all standing candidates to take heed of the wishes of the community, and if elected, to support legislation that permanently protects our aquifers, water catchments, farms and areas of environmental importance.”

The Declaration ceremony reiterates the united will of the community

I

note that monthly reports will now be provided to Wyong Council detailing the number of jobs created by development applications (DA), council projects and other government projects.

Jobs are not actually created by approving DAs; a more relevant report would be actual construction starts and on site jobs.

Despite numerous media releases announcing multi-million dollar DA approvals, I don’t believe even one major DA-approved project has actually started yet, other than the

found that 98.2% of the area’s residents oppose coal seam gas activity.

Recently both Wyong and Gosford Councils unanimously passed twinned resolutions reaffirming the respective council’s stance against coal seam gas, and standing in support of the Mountain Districts’ residents.

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Media release, 3 Mar 2015 Simon Perry, Gasfield Free Mountain Districts

A free newspaper with in-depth Gosford Local Government Area news!

ratepayer-funded Metro cinema and the Performing Arts Centre.

Given Cr Best claims 4,000 young people are registered with Central Coast Group Training (CCGT) for jobs and training, maybe he, both

as chair of Council’s Employment and Economic Development Committee and as CEO of CCGT, could explain why two rooms in the new $ 2.8 million Skills Centre at Tuggerah remain unused after eight months?

Email, 3 Mar 2015 Kevin Armstrong, Tumbi Umbi

Long Jetty man charged over serious assault man has been charged following the alleged serious assault of a man in Erina on Saturday, December 27.

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Emergency services were called to a car park near a hotel on Bonnal Rd, Erina, at about 12:45am where they found a man unconscious.

Officers from Brisbane Water Local Area Command attended and were told the 24-yearold was punched in the back of the head by a man following a verbal argument.

The punch caused him to fall and strike his head on the pavement.

The Wyong man was taken to Gosford Hospital

Issue 103

Mountain Districts communities reaffirm Gasfield Free stance

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Job count should be for real jobs started

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com

FREE

March 4, 2015

Letters to the editor should be sent to:

is prohibited by State Environmental Planning Policy number 36 Manufactured Homes Estates, which, with full marks to Wyong Shire Council, was a reference item in the relevant business paper.

Land and Environment Court NSW costs are borne by the Wyong rate payer.

The DLALC should reassess its own credibility in many respects.

However, on the Gateway Determination Process for rezonings at Lake Munmorah, it has some excuse for the extremely poor governance demonstrated

by Wyong Shire Council.

Given the absurdity of Wyong Shire Council’s failure to identify some existing major residential park developments on its own land map, evidence based, Wyong Shire Council has no alternative but to fess up and report the indiscretion to the Department of Planning at Gosford, rather than continue to fudge the Gateway Determination Process.

Forum & On the Beat

is printed on 100% recycled paper products, even the ink is made from vegetable matter.

So when you’re done reading this paper please recycle it or give it to someone else to read

with serious head injuries.

He was later transferred to Royal North Shore Hospital where he was in a critical condition.

F o l l o w i n g investigations, at around 2:30pm the same day, a 22-year-old man was arrested at a home on

Nirvana St, Long Jetty.

He was taken to Gosford Police Station, where he was charged with cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent.

The man has been refused bail and appeared at Gosford Local Court on Sunday, December 28.

Media release, 27 Dec 2014 NSW Police media

Health

P12 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 P

Parliament hears about The Glen

Community hub officially opened emberforDobell Ms Karen McNamara attended the official opening of the Sunnyfield Charmhaven community hub recently and spoke about her experience in Parliament on Monday, February 23.

M Joe Coyte of the Glen, Member for Dobell Karen McNamara, Minister Sussan Ley and Dr David Gillespie MP who was assisting the Minister with her consultation

ember for Dobell Ms Karen McNamara has spoken in parliament about the Minister for Health Ms Sussan Ley’s recent visit to The Glen, a leading alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre for men.

M

“I would like to thank Joe Coyte, manager of The Glen Central Coast Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre, for hosting the Hon. Sussan Ley, Minister for Health, during the minister’s recent visit to the Central Coast,” Ms McNamara said.

“The minister gladly accepted an invitation to tour the facility and to learn about the programs

offered by Joe and his team.

“I have been actively working with The Glen for a while and recently had the pleasure of announcing $157,000 of federal government funding to enable the construction of two new houses to accommodate participants in The Glen’s rehabilitation programs.

“This funding will deliver 12 new beds

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as well as some muchneeded building works, including plumbing, construction of footpaths, and landscaping.

“The Glen offers a long-term residential program based on the 12-step programs of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, with consistent and achievable outcomes.

“I am proud to say that, from 1 July 2015, there will be more beds at The Glen for men who suffer from substance abuse and associated issues.

“The Glen does tremendous work in our

local community, and I was proud to showcase this outstanding facility to the Minister for Health, enabling her to experience their work first hand.

“I also want to congratulate the local Bunnings store, who have worked in partnership with The Glen in offering these men opportunities to get back into employment.

“They are doing fantastic work, working with Bunnings.

“I also thank the corporate members, who have made more funding for The Glen possible,” Ms McNamara concluded.

Transcript, 3 Mar 2015 Karen McNamara, Member for Dobell

Sunnyfield Disability Services have operated on the Central Coast for over 14 years and provide programs designed to enrich the lives of people with an intellectual disability.

Based at Woongarrah, the Sunnyfield community hub provides a user-friendly environment where clients and carers can receive the support they need to achieve their goals, dreams and aspirations.

“I had the pleasure of meeting clients as well as the remarkable carers, families and staff members who make an everyday difference to those with a disability,” Ms McNamara said.

“Sunnyfield Disability Services provides a variety of programs to approximately 160 people on the Central Coast, including

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transition-to-work, school-leavers and community-based programs.

“The community hub offers a variety of development activities including fitness, music therapy, gardening, woodwork and cooking.

“With a growing demand in Dobell for services that address the increasing need for child, ageing and disability programs, it is heartening and inspiring to meet the people involved with Sunnyfield, who are dedicated to making a difference.

“An organisation such as Sunnyfield Disability Services, which makes such an impact to the lives of people who need it most, is the sign of a selfless and noble cause that deserves as much support as possible.

“I am privileged to provide support as the Federal Member for Dobell” Ms McNamara said.

Transcript, 23 Feb 2015 Karen McNamara, Member for Dobell

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P13 3

Steel Magnolia goes to Blair’s Wish founder

Sensitive skilled reliable listeners wanted he Central Coast Palliative Care Service is looking for volunteers to provide support for patients and their carers who are living with a terminal illness and for former carers facing bereavement.

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Palliative Care Volunteer Services coordinator Ms Linde Davis said volunteers would receive training to work with palliative care patients and carers, and develop skills to support those who have been bereaved.

“Our palliative care volunteers may assist patients by transporting them to and from appointments, providing much needed respite care in the patient’s own home or visiting the patient’s home to provide listening support,” Ms Davis said.

Bereavement Care Volunteers provide support to those who have lost a loved one.

“Volunteer support for people who have been bereaved may involve phoning people who have

been recently bereaved, visiting clients at home for one-on-one support and assisting in the running of bereavement support groups,” Ms Davis said.

Ms Davis said all volunteers would be supported with extensive training, support and ongoing supervision by the Palliative Care team.

“If you are someone who is a skilled listener, sensitive, and reliable please contact us to find out more about volunteering,” Ms Davis said.

Training would be held in the Palliative Care administration building at Long Jetty.

Media release, 27 Feb 2015 Sharna Ryan, Central Coast Local Health District

Health

Photo by Sally Williams from She Shoots

ifeline Central Coast hosted the annual Steel Magnolia and incapacitated.

Being the eldest of Young Achiever Award at Mingara Recreation Club on Friday, three siblings, Mikalah March 6.

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Central Coast woman Julia Sawer was recognised as this year’s Steel Magnolia and Mikalah Harnett received the Young Achiever Award.

Catherine Bowley, Heather Crawford, Stephanie Van Leeuwen, Cathy Zernos, Michelle Fenton, Ella Whelan, Sharni Stuart and Sharney Charters were also recognised for their contribution to the community despite challenges they each face.

Julia gave birth to her youngest child Blair in 2008.

At 18-months-old, Blair was diagnosed with quadriplegic cerebral palsy.

Blair was put on a waiting list for his custom made wheelchair, which

took two years, and when it arrived he had outgrown it.

It needed to be returned which meant another nine week wait.

Julia said she wondered why there wasn’t a service that allowed you to hire equipment for children with special needs.

From this identified need in the community, in 2011, Blair’s Wish was born.

Blair’s Wish began to collect, store and loan specialised equipment to children at no cost, made possible by Julie’s determination and willingness to approach companies to source demonstration models and specialised equipment.

Families soon heard about her work and also

started donating second hand items.

Blair’s Wish is now a registered non-profit organisation supporting many local families.

Young Achiever Mikalah Harnett was recognised for being an integral member of the Young Carers Group for the area, ensuring that she can be a support for other young carers in the same situation as her.

She is also endeavoring to create a Young Carers’ Support Group at Narara Valley High School, where the group will meet once a fortnight to provide a support network for other students in similar situations.

Mikalah’s mother suffers from a degenerative condition that can at times leave her

has taken on the role of carer in the home, along with the help of her younger brothers.

Despite the fact that Mikalah cannot lead the life of a normal teenager, she eagerly throws herself into her studies, currently working towards obtaining her HSC. The event was a great success and over $8,500 was raised to help support the services of Lifeline Central Coast.

Special guest speaker Dr Ibtihal Samarayi, author of ‘Refugee to Resident’, shared her journey of arriving in Australia after seeking asylum in Iran and Turkey, escaping from the troubles arising in her home country of Iraq.

Media release, 10 Feb 2015 Katie Allen, Lifeline Central Coast

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Education

P14 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

Buddy benches at Budgewoi

Budgewoi Public School students on the Buddy Bench

udgewoi Public School has installed buddy benches into its playground.

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The buddy benches are a great intuitive for children looking for someone to play with, and are working effectively throughout the school.

The benches were donated by last year’s Year 6 students as their gift to the school.

Positive Behaviour for Learning lessons have

Newsletter, 2 Mar 2015 Kerry Moore, Budgewoi Public School

taff members of Northlakes High School are this year implementing educational programs they underwent training for during the final week of term 4.

One of the courses to be implemented is Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) which will be introduced in classes in Years 9 and 10 as well as to seniors in a study skills

program.

Principal Ms Merrilyn Rowley said: “We are continuing to expand the role of our house system and positive behaviour for learning.”

“All these programs are

driven by our exceptional staff and aim to improve all students’ high school experience.”

Newsletter, 30 Jan 2015 Merrilyn Rowley, Northlakes High School

For FITNESS, FUN and FRIENDSHIP GOSFORD SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCERS holds a class every Wednesday from 7 to 10pm at the Church of Christ Hall, Henry Parry Drive, Wyoming

$5 per Night Come and join in on the fun!

No partner necessary No special clothes - just soft shoes Lively music New dancers welcome

Contact Janice on 4388 8 2253 Contact Sandra on 4392 8716

W

yong Christian Community School will participate in two chess challenges this year.

The school will first be competing in the Interschool Chess Challenge, with heats starting on Friday, March 20, at Green Point Christian College.

The competition is played in two divisions, Primary and Secondary, with seven individual swiss rounds, meaning that no one is kicked out of the tournament.

The winning school will be determined by adding the four highest scores from each school.

Chess clocks will be used in the event, with a time limit of 15 minutes per player, per game.

Trophies will be awarded for the top scoring players, from first to fifth place, as well as to the top three placed schools.

The top three schools from each heat will then qualify for the Regional Semi-Finals, to be held in Term 3.

Wyong Christian Community School will also be participating in the 2015 Metropolitan Secondary Schools Chess Teams Competition, a competition for state and private schools in the Sydney metropolitan and surrounding areas, conducted by the NSW Junior Chess League.

Matches take place after school on Fridays during Term 2 on a home and away basis.

The competition is divided into regions and divisions, with regional finals and then an overall competition final.

The three grades for competition include Juniors, being Years 7 and 8, Intermediate, being Years 9 and 10, and Senior, being Years 11 and 12.

Each team will consist of four players.

Newsletter, 4 Mar 2015 Ian Linley, Wyong Christian Community School

Free technology training for seniors

also been developed to support their use.

New educational programs at Northlakes

S

Students to compete in two chess competitions

uggerah Lakes Community College and Central Coast Community College are two of the 71 community colleges across NSW offering low cost or free training for seniors to learn how to use technologies such as computers, tablets and smart phones.

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Telstra and the NSW Government have announced the expansion of the popular Tech Savvy Seniors program, with a goal to reach 20,000 seniors over the next 18 months.

Telstra Country Wide area general manager for Hunter Central Coast, Mr Chris Cusack said that Telstra is committed to helping all Australians enjoy the benefits of being connected.

“New communications technology gives people the opportunity to be

more connected than ever, whether it be staying in touch with family and friends on social media, or connecting with people and services in your local community,” he said.

“Developing the confidence and skills to use technology and participate in the digital community and economy is increasingly important for seniors.”

“We know that most seniors who participate in the Tech Savvy Seniors training are keen to

integrate technology use into their lifestyle and almost 90% of participants found the training to be helpful in increasing their knowledge or confidence in using new technologies,” said Mr Cusack.

Tech Savvy Seniors training has already started running at Tuggerah Lakes Community College on Mondays and will run at Central Coast Community College on Wednesdays and on Saturdays.

Media release, 3 Mar 2015 David Taylor, Telstra

The Fletcher Gallery Monthly Art Class Sunday March 22 Private Tuition Available 17 Dolly Ave Springfield www.zoefletcher.com or call Zoe Fletcher on

0497 766 522

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P15 5

Gorokan PS is a Book Bank School

Education

Family day care facility nominated olistic Approach Family Day Care in Killarney Vale has been nominated for Service of the Year in this year’s Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards.

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Book Bank was launched at Gorokan Public School by international best-selling authors Jacqueline Harvey and Belinda Murrell

orokan Public School has become the ninth Book Bank School in the state.

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Book Bank is sponsored by Dymocks’ Children’s Charities and supports students developing a love of books and of reading.

Every term, students in Years 3-6 select a book from the Premier’s Reading Challenge list.

The students get to share their books with their peers at school and then get to keep them at the end of the term.

Gorokan Public School principal Mr Jesmond Zammit said that Book Bank is successful in improving students’ love of reading and of books,

because it is based on student interest.

Representatives from Club Toukley RSL who support Gorokan Public School, along with children’s authors Ms Belinda Murrell and Ms Jacqueline Harvey, attended the official launch of the program, held in February.

The students were able to engage in workshops with the authors where they could question what it really takes to become a successful author.

Email, 6 Mar 2015 Jason Clenton, Gorokan Public School

The peak awards for the early years education sector, the Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards are now in their 11th year of celebrating and acknowledging the commitment, hard work and passion by outstanding leaders and services in the community.

Overseen by judging chairman and Australian Family managing director Mr Paul Clancy, the Australian Family Early Education and Care

Awards are judged by a distinguished panel of professionals from the early childhood sector.

Through a rigorous judging process, the judges seek individuals and services that best reflect the highest of quality in their everyday work with young children.

Each received nomination is reviewed by the judging panel to determine the Australian Family Early Education and Care Awards finalists on May 6.

Each finalist will need to demonstrate their achievements in practice and commitment to five key areas aligned with Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority’s National Quality Standard which are federal governmentmandated professional standards for children’s services.

Media release, 9 Mar 2015 Adele Feletto Publicity

A HIT TO YOUR WEBSITE IS NOT A SALE!

DON’T BE FOOLED Why pay for a paltry 20 hits to your website, when for the same average price per hit, your information can be put before over 15,000 local potential customers?

What’s more, that information will be out there in hundreds of locations for two weeks and it is on line indefinitely, not just a few seconds.

It’s a no brainer!

Advertising in your local, well read and loved newspaper has to be much better value.

Central Coast Newspapers are locally owned and locally staffed.

We care about the Coast!

See www.centralcoastnewspapers.com for more information or call 4325 7369.

Out & About

P16 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

The circus comes to town

Anne Frank exhibition at Tuggerah he prominent international exhibition ‘Anne Frank – A History for Today’ has been shown in over 50 countries and is now on display at Tuggerah Library until Monday, March 16.

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ustralian owned Circus Royale featuring international acts will be performing at Mingara Recreation Club from Thursday, March 19, to Sunday, March 29.

The circus acts include motorbike stunts, football playing dogs, clowns, dancing horses, baby camels, a ringmaster and acrobatic artistry.

Motorbike riders will perform in the steel Globe

of Death, where they will reach speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour.

Weeknight shows commence at 7:30pm with two shows on Saturdays, one at 4pm and another at 7:30pm

and one show on Sundays from 11am.

Onsite tickets are available from 10am daily.

Flyer, 11 Mar 2015 Barry Nixon, Circus Royale

National Valiants rally at The Entrance

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Coordinated by the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, this free exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to experience WWII and the horrors of the Holocaust through the eyes of a child who lived through this defining moment in history.

Wyong mayor Cr Doug Eaton said he was thrilled that residents and visitors of the Central Coast had the chance to view this culturally significant exhibition.

“We are honoured to have such a prestigious exhibition on display at one of our libraries,” mayor Cr Eaton said.

“This acclaimed exhibition provides a dynamic and unique experience, engaging

participants, through the eyes and voice of Anne, a much respected figure and symbol for the countless stories lost throughout this period of history.

“This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I would encourage everyone to view this incredible exhibition.”

Council’s section manager of Library Services Ms Andrea Edwards said the exhibition featured family photographs alongside quotes from her famed diary, which allowed the world to share in her musings and day to day struggles.

“Anne allowed the world to partake in her life story of a Jewish girl forced into hiding in Nazi

occupied Holland, but this exhibition goes deeper, also delving into the events that occurred after the Nazis came into power,” Ms Edwards said.

“The history of the Frank family is the common thread of the exhibition, which challenges visitors to think about tolerance, mutual respect, human rights and democracy in our own society.

“Visitors are also encouraged to look at the effects radical decisions can have on individuals on a world scale, while also reflecting on our right to be treated equally despite our cultural differences; something which is still very relevant today.”

Media release, 4 Feb 2015 Wyong Council media

Change at the top for 50+ social group

he Central Coast NSW 50+ Singles Social Group celebrated its 17th anniversary recently with a combined annual meeting and and S Series Valiants from all over Australia will be displayed in birthday at Meander Village in Wyong, with over 30 members in Memorial Park at The Entrance on Saturday, March 21. attendance.

The display is part of the sixth National Rally, attracting owners of 1962 Australian built Chrysler Valiants as well as the similarly styled imported Q and R Series Plymouth Valiants and Dodge

Lancers.

The day will include judging of the entrants.

Along with the regular awards, trophies will also be awarded to the longest distance travelled and another for the entrant

Mingaletta

Garage Sale 6 Sydney Ave Umina Saturday 21 March and Sunday 22 March All Welcome 6am Start Assorted Goods Come and Grab a Bargain.

Ph: 4342 7515

with the hardest luck story.

The awards will be given out at a presentation dinner to be held at Magenta Shores Resort that evening.

Also taking place on the night will be an auction, raffles and the handing over of the banner to the South Australian Club who will be hosting the seventh National Rally in 2018.

Media release, 1 Mar 2015 R and S Series Valiant Car Club of NSW Inc.

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The past president Ms Lorraine Doyle from East Gosford and the new president Ms Jean Crosland from Mardi, cut the large birthday cake much to the delight of the attendees.

Lorraine held the position of president for three years and, under her stewardship, the Group has grown with over 50 active members.

Jean will continue to expand the Group’s activities with new members welcome at any time.

With over 12 years industry experience. Enjoy the ultimate in personal, convenient and professional travel planning with Mary Pritchard, your local mobile travel agent, who comes to you!

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During the Group’s 17 years, many men and woman from all over the Central Coast have joined the Social Group.

The Social Group provides an answer to those who seek something to fill the void over the weekend and to make new friendships by

attending a 50+ function.

The Group’s functions are held in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and include dances, dinners and outings on Fridays and over the weekend.

Media release, 2 Mar 2015 Jean Crosland, Central Coast NSW 50+ Singles Social Group

Out & About

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P17

Creative workshop welcomes visitors

Air League Squadron achieves several ďŹ rsts

he Creative Workshop Central Coast Inc. will be operating a PopUp creative workspace and shop located at WestďŹ eld Tuggerah in the outdoor dining precinct.

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The Pop-Up creative workspace and shop will open daily from Tuesday, March 3, to Saturday, March 28.

On offer at the Pop-Up will be a range of creative workshops, meet the maker

events and handmade local products and artworks.

Visitors will be able to enjoy half-day or full day workshops in Shibori fabric dyeing, screen printing, printmaking, millinery, felting, sewing, paper

crafts, and kids’ crafts.

Local makers will demonstrate their techniques and creative processes.

A range of ďŹ ne art, ďŹ bre arts, ceramics, jewelry, millinery, homewares and fashion will also be for sale.

The Creative Workshop Central Coast Inc. is a not-for-proďŹ t Association established to promote the appreciation, practice and development of Arts, Design and Crafts on the Central Coast.

The Association is working towards establishing the Central Coast’s ďŹ rst open-access creative workspace equipped for specialised Arts, Design and Crafts for the beneďŹ t of the entire community.

Media release, 11 Feb 2014 Jessica Gledhill, Creative Workshop

t the recent National Competitions held in Canberra, the Cadets of Doyalson Girls Air League Squadron brought home well deserved awards for their months of hard work and preparation to compete against Squadrons from all round Australia.

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The Cadets in Doyalson Girls Squadron achieved ďŹ rst place in OfďŹ cer Section Drill (NSW Girls Group), Ball Games (NSW Girls Group), Junior Section Drill, Squadron on the March, Flag Party on the March, Education

Display, Senior Essay, Junior Essay, Plastic Model eight to 11 years and Diorama 12 to 14 years.

The Cadets also received second place in Grand Aggregate (NSW Girls Group), Plastic Model eight to 11 years,

CENTRAL COAST

Festival Packs A Punch! “Bellisimo� is the general comment when asked “did you enjoy the food at the Italian Festival?� said Alex Quinn, Festival co-ordinator! The festival now in its sixth year, was the result of residents encouraging the owner of Ettalong Beach Tourist Resort, to showcase this unique venue, with an annual event.

Built by an Italian family, this unusual resort contains a 40 room boutique motel, the stunning Cinema Paradiso complex with 6 theatres decorated in Italian, Moroccan and Art Deco themes and a bustling European style village market with fresh produce, locally made crafts, and five cafes – one roasting their own coffee. In addition to the weekend market, ten restaurants surround the exterior of the resort, offering traditional Italian, Spanish, Turkish, Chinese, Japanese and contemporary Australian cuisine, all week.

Situated only one hour by road from Sydney or a short ferry trip from Sydney’s Northern beaches, the festival fun starts onboard FantaSeas’ vessel from Palm Beach with captain and crew dressed as Italian sailors and an accordionist serenading the passengers!

During the Festival, sponsored by the National Australia Bank and Campbell’s Home Timber and Hardware, who supplied every screw, nut and bolt in the resort, a plethora of stalls fill stunning piazzas adorned with Italian Renaissance Art, offering authentic homecooked Italian cuisine such as pasta dishes,

wood fired pizzas, gnocchi, arancini, canolli, biscotti and other Italian pastries, at the Mediterranean inspire venue.

To experience Italian culture barista’s will demonstrate how to “express� a good coffee and a cooking show by our Italian chef will give you some handy hints. Sample Italian wines and beer and taste some of the best Italian liqueurs! If you are planning a trip to Italy, talk to the Italian State Tourism Board, presenting a travel showcase. Ladies - don’t miss our pop-up Fashion Show by designer Clara, on the balconies of Piazza Giulietta and check out the Italian Murano glass jewellery.

Explore our function room displaying an Italian photographic exhibition, or catch an Italian film in the cinema.

Italian cars line up for viewing and our own “Michael Angelo� local artist Simon Sawell, will be on site with paintbrush in hand, adding to the collection of Italian Renaissance art found throughout the resort.

Punch & Judy (originating from Italy) and the Pinocchio puppet shows will entertain the kids, along with Piccolo the Clown and Benino the Donkey. Or introduce them to the Italian breed of Maremma dogs. Last but not least, our popular Italian singers, George Vumbaca, Sam Pellegrino and Nata Forte will have the crowd on up its feet.

Enjoy the fun of the festa! Ph 0424 644 448 or www.ettalongbeachmarkets.com.au

Diorama 12 to 14 years and Diorama 18 years and over, as well as third place in Section Drill, Flag Party Drill and Diorama 15 to 17 years.

Email, 27 Feb 2015 Pamela Price, Australian Air League

6th

Celebrate all things Italian

Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015 Culture on the Coast

7JOP CJSSB DVJTJOF DPČFF USBEJUJPOBM GPML EBODJOH NVTJD TPOH BSU QIPUPHSBQIZ DBST GBTIJPO ĕMN QVQQFU TIPXT USBWFM BOE MBOHVBHF Ettalong Beach Tourist Resort will be transformed into a bustling hub of Italian culture, when the annual Central Coast Italian Festival returns to the coast. t ćF MBSHFTU VOEFSDPWFS NBSLFUT PO UIF $FOUSBM $PBTU t " TDSFFO TUBUF PG UIF BSU DJOFNB DPNQMFY t SPPN CPVUJRVF NPUFM t 0WFS JOUFSOBUJPOBM SFTUBVSBOUT t 'VODUJPO 3PPNT JODMVEJOH UIF TUVOOJOH 1JB[[B 4U 1BOP 4U 7JUUPSJOP MAJOR SPONSORS: /BUJPOBM "VTUSBMJB #BOL BOE $BNQCFMM T )PNF 5JNCFS BOE )BSEXBSF

Ettalong Beach Tourist Resort Complex,189 Ocean View Road, Ettalong Beach 5FM t XXX FUUBMPOHCFBDINBSLFUT DPN BV

Not for Profit Organisations Animal Care Central Coast Cat Care $20 Desexing Special Cats only No Pedigrees 4388 6448 4325 3163

Bushwalking National Parks Association Central Coast Twice weekly bush walks on the Central Coast and further afield, varying distances and grades of difficulty.

Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, floral, history. Keep fit and make friends.

4389 4423 & 4332 7378

Community Groups Bateau Bay Men’s Shed Environment for mature aged men to repair items, share and learn skills and socialize 9am to 1.30pm Tue to Thur 1 Bay Village Road, Bateau Bay 0435 807 633 bateaubayshed@gmail.com

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Center Come and join our regular activities, indoor bowls, mahjong, walking for pleasure, slimmers support, hand and foot Bolivia cards, Toy library and community garden 4388 5801 manager@bvnc.org.au www.bvnc.org.au

Central Coast Community Legal Centre The Central Coast Community Legal Centre is a non-profit organisation located in Wyong that provides free legal advice to people within the Wyong / Gosford area. Intake times for legal advice Tue 10-12pm, Wed 10-12pm, Thur 2-4pm Ph 4353 4988 Fax 4353 4680 admin_cclc@clc.net.au

PO Box 246 Wyong NSW 2259 Central Coast 50+ Singles Social Group Invites Ladies & Gents for dinner, dancing - BBQs & Socialising each weekend.

Our friendly group can be contacted for our monthly programme 4344 5556 4396 3640 50pssg@gmail.com

Central Coast Over 30s Social Group Inc We offer social contact, entertainment events & new friendships for people in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s & 60’s etc.

Our events range from; Live Music, House Parties, Restaurant Nights, BBQ’s/ Picnics, Trips Away & lots more.

For a FREE calendar call call 0428 461 188 email cco30s@live.com.au

Central Coast Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Service Do you have issues with your landlord or real estate agent?

Free telephone advice and advocacy for all tenants and residents in residential parks.

4353 5515

Recreational Club 4th Tuesday 4324 4244

to Volunteering” Held regulary across the Central Coast 4329 7122 recruit@volcc.org.au

Gambling Solutions Gambling help counsellors providing free confidential professional service to gamblers, family and friends Available Woy Woy, Kincumber, Gosford and The Entrance 4344 7992

Gurdjieff Society I AM LOST Deep Conversations & systematic exercises for understanding my self & my place in life. - Gurdjieff Society - Ancient and modern knowledge. Thurs evening fortnightly 0425 296 783 www.gurdjieff.org.au

Knitted Knockers Australia Free knitted prosthetics for women who have undergone a mastectomy 100% cotton, lighter, cooler/ warmer and easy care.

Available by emailing cup size to Jill Richards wyeeclevercrafters@gmail.com

PO Box 9096 Wyee NSW 2259

Long Jetty Senior Citizens Club Beginner classes being held in computers, line dancing, tai chi and zumba gold.

Contact the Club 4332 5522 M-F, 9am to 3pm for full list of activities Long Jetty Over 50s Club Come along and join in our activities, great for indoor bowls, computers, exercises, yoga, line-dancing, tai chi and more 4332 5522 9am to 3pm Mingaletta Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Corporation The Mingaletta community centre provides its members and other community groups a meeting place and referal hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs through consultative services and community programs.

Mon-Fri 9am 4pm 6 Sydney Ave Umina 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

The NSW Justices Association Inc Are you a JP? The NSW Justices Association is seeking volunteers for 6 community JP Desks in Wyong Shire Free Insurance and training provided 0418 493 388 benefits@nswja.org.au

The Rotary Club of the Entrance Inc. A small, friendly and effective club supporting many local organisations, and international Rotary Activities. Always welcoming new members, men and women, to help us to help others.

Meetings 6pm for 6.30 pm each Tues – Mingara Recreation Club 4367 6540

cctaas@hotmail.com

rotarytheentrance@gmail.com

Community Care Services - Central Coast Memory lane - Doing things together Café For people with memory loss & their carers to enjoy a relaxing coffee morning with others experiencing similar circumstances Wallarah Bay

Volunteering Central Coast Refer potential volunteers to community organisations and provide support to volunteers and community organisations. we also provide training to volunteers and managers of volunteers Information Sessions “Bridge

Wrap with Love Knitting blankets for cold humanity.

Knitted blankets warm the heart of those who give and those who recieve.

Donations of 8ply yarn gratefully received.

Longjetty: 4333 4353 Toukley 4399 3351 Wyong Neighbourhood Centre Supporting disadvantaged vulnerable and isolated members of our community offering a range of community services, events, projects, workshops, arts programs and an open community garden.

4353 1750 Wyong Toastmasters Club Come along, be part of a vibrant, progressive group.

Conquer your fears of public speaking in a supportive learn-by-doing environment.

10.30am - 1st, 3rd and 5th Friday Wyong RSL Anzac Ave Wyong 1030am 4328 8297 j pp @ joppa@theorchards.com.au

Garden Clubs Central Coast Cactus and Succulent Club Meets on the 3rd Sat each month from 1pm to 3.30pm Charmhaven Community Centre - Plants for Sale, Raffles, afternoon tea 0401 544 052 4399 2420

Health Groups Better Hearing Australia Central Coast Hearing loss management Support and educational group - 7 groups across the coast - Providing practical experience and confidence Learn the benefits to hearing aids - Better Hearing Australia Central Coast 4321 0275 www.centralcoast.betterhearingaustralia. org.au

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Gosford) Meet last Friday Month Terrigal Uniting Church 380 Terrigal Drive, Terrigal 9.30am to 12 noon 4367 9600 www.pcfa.org.au

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Wyong) Meet last Monday Month Toukley RSL Club, Holmes Ave Toukley 10.00am to 12 noon 4356 9300 www.pcfa.org.au

GROW - Free Weekly 12 Step Mental Health Self Help Group - Helping thousands to recover from mental health challenges for more than 55 years to find a GROW group near you call 1800 558 268 www.grow.net.au

GROW Groups meet weekly all year round Multiple Sclerosis Limited Gentle exersice class at Tuggerah on Mondays. To improve strength, balance, endurance and help reduce fatigue and stress.

02 9646 0962 tracy.martinuz@msaustralia.org.au

PO Box 210 Lidcombe NSW 1825

P18 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 P1 ParaQuad Specialist healthcare products delivered to your door, for all your continence, wound care and respiratory and nutrition requirements Professional Clinic Support available 1300 886 601 www.brightsky.com.au g y

Music Soundwaves Men’s acapella 4 part harmony chorus - all ages 7pm Mon Central Coast Leagues Club John 0413 276 698 jbthomson51@gmail.com

Tuggerah Lakes Showband An enthusiastic groupo of people who play brass instrumnts, meet every Tuesday and Thursday to rehearse their crowdpleasing music and play at communioty events Band Hall located in Park Road The Entrance (north end)

Tues 7.30pm Thur 6.30pm 0407 406 669

Political Groups Australian Labor Party Ourimbah/ Narara Branch Discussion/action community issues - 3 levels of Government Niagara Park Primary School 7.30pm 1st Mon each month 0410 309 494 kyle.macgregor@hotmail.com

Probus Clubs Bateau Bay Ladies Probus Club We offer a warm welcome, friendship and interesting speakers.

4th Mon every month RSL Hall Killarney Vale 4332 6625 Toowoon Bay Probus Club Come and meet new friends and enjoy the company of like-minded Seniors.

Morning tea provided, guest speakers talking on topics relevant to Seniors, as well as regular exciting social events.

4th Thur each month 10am.

Anglican Church hall, corner of Brooke Ave and Eastern Rd Bateau Bay New members welcome.

4334 3979 Tuggerah Combined Probus Club Inc New to the Coast?

If you would like to meet new friends and enjoy social events, a welcome awaits you at Tuggerah Combined Probus Club each 2nd Thursday of the month, where you will have the opportunity to hear various guest speakers and also join us in a social outing on the 3rd Thursday.

We meet at Woodbury Park Community Hall, Mardi.

4388 1841

Special Interest Central Coast Potters Society Dedicated to increasing the ceramics knowlede, experience and skills of members and the general public. Running classes, workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and social events.

Annual exhibitions in May and December Open Day in Sept info@ccpotters.org

4324 5343 PO Box 4043 East Gosford NSW 2250 Central Coast Lapidary

Club Minerals & Gems Learn silverwork, Cabochons, Faceting, Enamelling, Stone Fieldtrips & fossicking Weekly Workshops Tues and Thurs 830am230pm Thurs evening 6-10pm 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah 4362 2246

Diggers Bridge Club Bridge players can enjoy a game of social bridge at Diggers The Entrtance (downstairs) on Tuesdays, 10am-1pm with or without a partner.

Len 4332 6989 David 4392 0606 Tuggerah Lakes U3A Keep your mind active and learn something new!

Come to one of our classes for a couple of hours and make new friends.

Long Jetty - Discussions, play reading, cryptic crosswords, talks, readers group, Mahjong Toukley - Creative writing,

French conversation Berkeley Vale - Music Appreciation Chitaway Bay - Movies 4390 2451 www.tugglakesu3a.info

Mingara Indoor Bowls Club The play of Indoor (Carpet) Bowls - Daily competition (singles, pairs & triples) Winner’s Prize $5 - but strongly social - Sun 9.30am Noon - Mon 6.30pm–9pm Wed 9.30am-2pm (including lunch break) Ray 4389 2567 Mingara Club 4349 7799 raymurphy1935@hotmail.com

Wyong Drama Group Inc A friendly group, presenting 3 major productions a year.

We welcome anyone interested in being involved in any area of production Acting; Back-stage; Front of House; Lighting/Sound etc Monthly meetings 1st Tues.

7.30pm in the new Grove Community Centre 1300 665 600 wyongdramagroup@gmail.com

The Wyong Diary For events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 2263

meeting room, Wyong, The Entrance 10am-12:30pm Camera Club monthly Friday Mar 20 meeting, Long Jetty Women’s Retreat, CWA Hall, Rainbow Beach Retreat, Wyee, 4pm Saturday Mar 14 Autumn Family Saturday Mar 21 Fun Day Fair, Toukley Summerland Kings, Anglican Church, Canton Beach Sports 10am-2pm Club, Toukley, 8pm Central Coast Grass Sixth National R and Volleyball Classic, The S Series Valiants Rally Entrance Memorial display, The Entrance Club Memorial Park

Friday Mar 13

Sunday Mar 15

Sunday Mar 22

Central Coast Grass Black Dog Ride 1 Volleyball Classic, The Dayer, The Entrance Entrance Memorial Leagues Club, 8am Club

Tuesday Mar 17

Monday Mar 23

Wyong Circle Time out For Carers of Women, Wyong course, St Vincent de Women’s Health Paul meeting room, Centre, 1pm-2:30pm Wyong, 10am-12:30pm

Wednesday Mar 18

Tuesday Mar 24

Seniors Week Concert, Wyong Shire Council Civic Centre, 10am

Transition to Retirement strategy seminar, Mingara Recreation Club, 6:30pm, free

Thursday Mar 19

Wednesday Mar 25

Communication Johnny Devilseed, for Carers course, Ourimbah Campus St Vincent de Paul Café Bar, 11am See the Peninsula News for events in post code areas 2256 & 2257 and the COAST Community News for events in post code areas 2250, 2260 and 2251 If you’ve got something happening in the Wyong Region over the next few weeks, let us know about it and we’ll list it here for you, for free.

Contact details are on page 2.

Wyong y g Regional g Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P19 9

Out & About

Tilda crosses the Equator ateau Bay’s Tilda Michalski is one of 24 young Australians who recently crossed the equator on Australia’s national Sail Training Ship (STS) Young Endeavour.

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The Young Endeavour is now in the Northern Hemisphere for the first time since 1992.

The majority of the crew who are sailing Young Endeavour across the Atlantic Ocean were up on deck at 2:32am on Monday, March 2, to celebrate the ‘Crossing of the Line’.

The traditional celebrations included a visit from King Neptune and his entourage to commemorate what was for many of the crew their first crossing of the equator.

These ceremonies are thought to have origins in the middle ages, and are now carried out on many civilian sail training ships, ocean liners and cruise ships, as well as Naval vessels from around the world.

Young Endeavour

captain, Lieutenant Commander Gavin Dawe OAM, RAN said: “Our young mariners crossed the Equator, met King Neptune and his Queen, enjoyed a swim in the Atlantic Ocean, caught two fish and enjoyed a sunset pizza dinner up on deck, all in one day!”

The 24 young Australians and 12 Royal Australian Navy staff crew on board Young Endeavour set sail from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on February 18 for a 46 day passage across the Atlantic Ocean.

They will visit the Cape Verde and Canary Islands before their arrival at Cadiz, Spain, on April 1.

Eighteen-year-old Tilda has just finished high school and will soon start university

studies in forensic science and criminology in Victoria.

She joined an 11 day voyage on Young Endeavour in 2014 while still at school, and said she enjoyed the bonding the crew experienced together in challenging conditions, as well as learning sail theory and the historical aspects of life at sea.

On applying for the World Voyage, Tilda said: “I thought that participating in such a magnificent experience was an opportunity too exciting to miss.”

“I had such a fantastic experience on the first trip I went on, and the idea of participating in such an epic journey appealed directly to my adventurous soul.

“I’m looking

Getting off drugs is torture.

Three months in one of our beds gets kids clean.

Please donate to support our live-in programs, giving addicted children their lives back.

We’ll buy more beds in more residences to take in more kids. It’s as simple as that.

Call 1800 151 045 or visit www.noffs.org.au

forward to learning all the terminology and skills to sail a tall ship on the open sea, all while bonding with the youthies and staffies on board Young

Endeavour,” Tilda said.

STS Young Endeavour is the gift given to the government and people of Australia to mark the Bicentenary in 1988.

Media release, 6 Mar 2015 Jennifer Reilly, Young Endeavour Youth Scheme

Classifieds

P20 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS cost only $30 plus GST for 5 cms, and will be working for you in your local community for TWO WEEKS

Phone: 4325 7369 - Fax: 4321 0940 E-mail: manager@centralcoastnews.net or download a form from

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com Ad a logo or photo only $6 +GST Ad full colour only $6 + GST

Antennas A Better Picture

Antenna & Digital Installations & Tuning New home specialist Credit cards OK HAYWARD VIDEO All areas

Entertainment

Massage

25th March

Bathroom / Laundry Renovations

Dingos Breakfast

Odyssey Custom Kitchens

Mintra Thai Massage

Bob Fox 28th March

Carpenter

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Folk & Acoustic Music Club

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Quality Laminate Benchtops supplied and seconds for sale

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Painting

7PM CWA Hall The Boulevarde Woy Woy

$12 General $10 Concession www.troubadour.org.au

4341 4060 BluesAngels

FREE colour consultancy service available and for pensioners only a free hour of labour painting plastering or rendering

Dance

tomflood@hotmail.com

4324 2801 Central Coast Bush Dance & Music Association Experience Folk Music at its best at East Gosford Progress Hall @ 7.30pm Henry Parry Drive

March 14 Jane Austen Regency Themed Dance Admission $18 incl. supper Folk Fed Affiliates & Pensioners $15, Students 13 to 18 $8 www.ccbdma.org for more information

Enq: 4344 6484

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Swimmers who have qualified for the state carnival are Bluebell Merchant, Ariella Zofrea, Annissa Zofrea, Ebony Nolan, Jessica Joester and Amelia Greeff.

Ariella Zofrea has also qualified for the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) swimming carnival after placing

second in the 11 Years Girls Breaststroke.

School principal Mr Ian Liney said: “Good luck to Ariella as she competes at the CIS swimming carnival on the 19th of March.”

Photography

ABC Friends Central Coast

ACRYLIC COATING Leading the Industry

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Gardening

Newsletter, 11 Mar 2015

Public Notice

EMMA ALBERICI (Late Line)

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hirty-five Wyong Christian Community School students competed in the zone swimming carnival on Tuesday, February 24, at Newcastle University.

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Finest quality custom built kitchens & laundries Also Home renovations & quality fit-outs Free measure & quote to suit your needs Ph Elton

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4346 4057

Central Coast Leagues Club

Wednesday 8th April 6.00 PM (door open 5.30 PM) Finger Food Buffet Bar Open $15

Pay: Greater Building Soc. BSB: 637-000 Account No: 781348279

Ph. 4341 5170 or 4341 0918

Please book by lst April

FREE! Seniors Week Inspiration Concert

19th March 10am-12.30pm

Local Artists, Legal Aid, Sing Along, Morning Tea Gosford Uniting Church Hall 129 Donnison St Gosford

4321 0275

Position Vacant

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Then your local Girl Guides would love to hear from you!

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Ongoing training and development, complementing your professional CV, including externally recognised leadership and workplace skills is provided.

Don't miss out on this rewarding opportunity! Further information via Region's Membership Advisor helenEG2@live.com.au

The Shame File

Ducks Crossing Publications has a very liberal credit policy for advertisers and realises that from time to time, people, businesses and organisations get into financial difficulty and may need assistance and time to get things back on track.

However, some people, businesses and organisations take advantage of this generosity they use advertising but simply don’t pay their account after several months and need to be taken to court to do so.

From time to time, as necessary, we will name these people, businesses or organisations as a warning to our readers so that they will be wary when dealing with them.

• Golden Scissors Hairdressing, • Tony Fitzpatrick trading as Wyong Futuretek Roofing • Bakefresh, Wyong • David Hill, Long Jetty • The Big Prawn, Frazer Park pty ltd • Jessica Davis of Erina - trading as formerly trading at Crangan Bay A1 cleaning services

Ian Liney, Wyong Christian Community School

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Sport

Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P21

Coast Sevens score on two fronts he Central Coast Sevens have recently achieved success both on and off the sporting field.

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Central Coast Sevens were named as a finalist at the Sport NSW Sports Awards.

The Central Coast Sevens were judged in the Sports Event of the year category, placing the Central Coast Sevens Tournament as one of the top five sporting events in NSW. Furthermore, the

NSW Youth Boys and Girls Central Coast Sevens team took out the Boys and Girls National Youth Sevens Championship over the weekend of February 28 to March 1, at Australian Sevens Headquarters in Narrabeen.

Newsletter, 2 Mar 2015 Central Coast Sevens

Grass Volleyball Tournament he Inaugural Central Coast Grass Volleyball Classic will be held at The Entrance Memorial Park over the weekend of March 14 and 15.

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This Grass Volleyball Tournament is the only formal grass volleyball event held in Australia.

The Men’s Doubles category is full with eight teams and the Mixed Fours category is filled with six teams.

The tournament was also able to attract two former Women Olympians and numerous Australian and State representatives to The Entrance.

This year’s entries are from Sydney, Newcastle and the surrounding Central Coast.

The event is held over two days to attract interstate participants to stay overnight and access The Entrance local hospitalities.

The Central Coast

Gunners receive $2,000 from A-League Grassroots program

Volleyball Club has been pro-active in promoting volleyball within the schools and the community.

It is currently working with the MacKillop Catholic College, Erina High School, Central Coast Grammar, Henry Kendall and St Philip’s Christian College (Narara).

The 2015 Central Coast Grass Volleyball Classic is the ‘Test’ event for a much bigger volleyball event planned for the summer of 2015-2016, the Volleyball Triathlon.

This event will see participation from international teams at The Entrance.

Media release, 5 Mar 2015 Donna Judge, The Entrance Town Centre Management

Toste Productions Presents On behalf of The Humour Foundation

oukley Gorokan Gunners Football Club has received $2,000 from Hyundai Motor Company Australia as part of the Hyundai Goals for Grassroots program

actively encouraging and nurturing the community team players and their families.”

“The heart-and-soul of all communities is linked to the kids, and we are delighted to be able to participate in

Media release, 9 Mar 2015 Lesa Horntvedt, Wicked Smart

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As the selected Hyundai Goals for Grassroots junior team, Toukley Gorokan Gunners automatically received $1,000, and for every goal Central Coast Mariners scored during their Round 20 match, the club received an additional $1,000 bonus.

By virtue of Central Coast Mariners scoring one goal in Round 20 of 2014/2015 Hyundai A-League, the junior club has scored a $2,000 Hyundai Help for Kids grant.

The junior grassroots club also received 20 complimentary tickets to attend the match against Melbourne City on Sunday, March 8, an on-field official cheque presentation, and the filming of a professional one-minute video to help promote their club.

“We will use these Hyundai Goals for

Grassroots funds to support our volunteer mum and dad coaches to ensure they can attend at least one accredited training course,” said Toukley Gorokan Gunners Football Club president Teena Markulin.

“The club will now be able to offer to pay for our volunteers to attend these courses, and improve the standard of coaching for our young players.”

Now in its eighth season, the Hyundai Goals for Grassroots program was initiated to support the growth of football in Australia by nurturing the game at its grassroots level.

“We are very proud to be playing a part in Hyundai’s Help for Kids initiative through the Goals for Grassroots program,” said Central Coast Mariners defender Josh Rose.

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Sport

P22 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015

Moss gets the boot two Multi-purpose courts to days before match day be built in Gwandalan

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ew multi-purpose courts will be built in Gwandalan near the Tunkawallin Oval at a cost of $250,000.

There are currently 12 netball clubs in the area and only two courts to accommodate them, highlighting a need to increase the access to playing courts in this area.

The courts will be designed for multipurpose use to meet the high demand for suitable playing courts, from a range of sporting groups

in the Shire’s north due to the increasing population.

The courts will also be used for overflow car parking when the playing fields and community hall are in use.

Mayor Cr Doug Eaton said: “We need more sporting infrastructure for our growing population and to make sure our young people remain active and can participate

in sport close to home.”

“This is just the beginning of what will be needed there in terms of sporting infrastructure, and Council will be doing everything we can, including seeking support from other levels of government, to make it happen.”

Media statement, 11 Mar 2015 Wyong Council media

Surprising win is a glimmer of hope for the finals hil Moss has been stood down as head coach of the Central Coast Mariners, effective immediately.

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The Mariners are in negotiations with Moss in regards to his position and have wished him all the best for his future endeavours in football.

Stepping in as interim head coach for the

remainder of the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 campaign is Central Coast Mariners newly appointed technical director, Tony Walmsley.

The club will soon commence the search for

LAT 33° 51’ S - LONG 151° 14’ E - TIME ZONE - 1000 Times and Heights(m) of high and low waters

Time - Height(m)

Time - Height(m)

Time - Height(m)

Add one hour to the times below when Daylight Saving is in force

FRI - 13 0055 - 1.50 0730 - 0.61 1326 - 1.24 1915 - 0.65 MON - 16 0416 - 1.61 1100 - 0.44 1704 - 1.35 2251 - 0.53 THU - 19 0047 - 0.32 0708 - 1.88 1334 - 0.17 1941 - 1.71 SUN - 22 0329 - 0.19 0941 - 1.78 1549 - 0.23 2204 - 1.85 WED - 25 0615 - 0.41 1218 - 1.38 1807 - 0.56

SAT - 14 0156 - 1.50 0842 - 0.60 1438 - 1.22 2026 - 0.66 TUE - 17 0518 - 1.72 1156 - 0.33 1801 - 1.47 2351 - 0.42 FRI - 20 0142 - 0.24 0800 - 1.90 1419 - 0.14 2029 - 1.79 MON - 23 0422 - 0.24 1032 - 1.66 1634 - 0.33 2253 - 1.82 THU - 26 0034 - 1.66 0717 - 0.51 1316 - 1.27 1900 - 0.66

SUN - 15 0306 - 1.53 0955 - 0.54 1556 - 1.25 2142 - 0.62 WED - 18 0615 - 1.82 1246 - 0.23 1852 - 1.59 SAT - 21 0235 - 0.19 0850 - 1.86 1504 - 0.17 2116 - 1.84 TUE - 24 0517 - 0.32 1124 - 1.52 1719 - 0.44 2343 - 1.75 FRI - 27 0132 - 1.57 0824 - 0.58 1424 - 1.21 2003 - 0.73

APPROX. TIME LAG AFTER FORT DENISON Ettalong 40 min, Rip Bridge 2hrs - Wisemans Ferry 2 hrs 30 min, Koolewong 2 hrs 10 min

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation.

Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated

a new permanent head coach with Walmsley to remain as the club’s technical director.

The decision is part of stage two of executive vice chairman Peter Storrie’s restructure that will also see Hyundai A-League assistant coach Wayne O’Sullivan offered a new role at the club.

Stepping into a player/coach role will be Central Coast Mariners club Captain, John Hutchinson, who will take on the dualposition until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 campaign.

The specifics of Hutchinson’s coaching contract are yet to be finalised but the club has confirmed that he will remain with the Mariners in a coaching capacity beyond this season.

The next phase of the Central Coast Mariners restructure will also include a fresh look at the operation of youth football that will be made evident in the near future with further statements.

The club has declined to make any further comment regarding the Phil Moss matter.

Media release, 6 Mar 2015 Central Coast Mariners media

thunderbolt strike from a Fabio Ferreira dead ball provided the Central Coast Mariners with a valuable win and continued the club’s domination over Melbourne City with a 1-0 win at Central Coast Stadium on Sunday, March 8.

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The goal saved Tony Walmsley’s men from what would have been a cruel draw after largely dominating the fixture, especially a strong second half from the yellow and navy.

City never seemed to find their feet on the immaculate Central Coast Stadium turf, but could have stolen a point late in the clash if not for the reflexes of Mariner’s custodian, Liam Reddy.

Walmsley can celebrate a successful start to his stint as the interim Central Coast head coach, with seven games remaining until the Hyundai A-League

finals series.

“Under tonight’s circumstances it was more about engaging the players, trying to get them aligned to the approach we needed to take and credit to them because they took it on exceptionally well,” Walmsley said.

“I’m very proud of how they went about their business, they’ve dusted themselves off and did what was required.

“To be fair it took time, Melbourne City were the better team for the vast majority of the first half, they’ve got a lot of power, a lot of money and Liam Reddy was outstanding

in the first half and again in the last minute of the game as well.

“We needed to polish things up a bit after the first half, but all in all, half time was a tick for a satisfactory performance but room for improvement.

“I said to the guys before the game, I already know when my end is up and that’s eight weeks from now - unless we get into the finals and I get an extra couple of weeks which would be nice,” he said.

Media release, 8 Feb 2015 Central Coast Mariners media

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - March 13, 2015 - P23

Sport

Eight players on track for State selection ido Mingara Judo Club p l a y e r s competed in the ACT International Open Championship held in Canberra recently and brought home three gold, three silver and two bronze medals.

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The Championships attracted teams from all states and were hotly contested due to it being a senior national points tournament for players seeking selection and funding for this year’s international events and inclusion on the national team for the Rio Olympics.

The juniors and cadets were positioning themselves for their respective World titles and the Oceania Championship held later this year in New Caledonia.

In the 48kg junior women U21 category, Caroline Hain showed how both her groundwork and strong command of submission techniques are winning her bouts.

In the finals she met and defeated her Queensland arch rival and last year’s Commonwealth Games medallist with a convincing performance and throw for a gold medal.

In the senior division she dominated the bout, winning against the number two ranked Amy Myer easily with shime waza submission.

This again saw her face off against Queensland in

the final.

Caroline looked strong, with her opponent barely surviving two armbar submission techniques.

The five minute bout was extended to ‘golden score’ as it often is, however, this time Caroline eased on the attacking and received a penalty, resulting in a silver medal.

She still gained vital National points and remains in the sights of National selectors.

Daniel Villani made a confident strong showing disposing his first three opponents with shoulder and hip throws for full point.

At times he had to modify his entries but won all his preliminaries in less than two minutes.

In the finals, he had to work harder and switched from good left attacks, which only amounted to

low scores, to the right.

With this approach, Daniel seized full control and threw for ippon [outright win] and a gold medal.

Angelina Yokoyama is finding her way up in her new 57kg U21 division.

Although she lost her first bout, she had strong attacks with good entries in all bouts.

In the repechage she gave nothing away, following up minor throws with strong groundwork, winning two bouts for a bronze placing.

Her challenge is to work on her fitness and a powerful completion of her throws.

Harrison Lambley showed great speed and balance while moving his opponent into a top scoring foot sweep position in less than 20 seconds.

His strong command of newaza [ground work]

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com

stood out, with coaches commenting on his control.

Harrison moved up to the finals with ease, winning gold in the junior boys division for KIDO. No wonder Neeson Naidoo felt under pressure since many eyes were on him after a year training in Japan.

He didn’t disappoint in his quality execution of throws.

It was, however, apparent that he had difficulties adapting to the new rules and ran up a series of penalties which he has to adjust to.

He worked his way through the field only narrowly losing in the 60kg cadet finals for a silver medal.

Although Neeson’s marathon series of 11 bouts on the day, many back to back, were sapping his strength; he worked his way up in the senior men to the bronze medal bout.

His coach decided to withdraw him and settle for fifth after assessing an injury that had flared up.

Natasha Lynch had a mighty day reaping the rewards of her committed training.

This was her first attempt in the senior girl 57kg division at a selection event.

She surprised her coach by unleashing more powerful committed attacks than she had previously displayed.

With speed, she was able to apply her hip entries and ouchi > kouchi [foot-sweep] combination with perfection.

Natasha’s feint takeback throw in the second bout was outstanding and showed her potential.

She was only stopped in the finals and was awarded silver.

Alex Lynch competed in the senior boys U55kg event and his improvement was apparent from the moment he stepped on

Home Publications Advertising Forms Contact Us PO Box 10 1 1056, 056, 056 6, Go Gosfor Gosford sford sfor f d 22 2250 2 50 0 120 Erina Ei S f d - e-mail: il editorial@centralcoastnews.net ditt i l@ di t l t t 120c Stt G Gosford

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editions of Peninsula News, Coast Community News and Wyong Regional Chronicle.

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the mat, even though his good entry to kouchi was countered in his first bout.

Since his shoulder throw entries were not deep enough to score, he changed to Ouchi [reaping] leg throw, landing his opponent perfectly on the back.

He had to summon all his strength to hold down his opponent to win the bronze.

Bryce Leckie changed weight groups into the faster 81kg division from last year.

He used his groundwork techniques well, obtaining a submission win in his first bout.

He thought he had secured the bronze medal bout with another groundwork submission, but it was stopped by a referee’s call.

A subsequent counter relegated him to fifth place.

Coach Pete Acciari said: “This was the best ACT medal result in 10 years, with the club getting closer, but still short of building a junior boy and girls team.”

“On the day, I was assisted by Liam Yokoyama, Caroline Hain and Bryce Leckie, who did a great job in the group’s preparation.

“All eight players are well on track to be selected on the State team and this event was part of their preparation for the Queensland International in three weeks and this year’s Nationals.”

Media release, 25 Feb 2015 Pete Acciari, Kido Mingara Judo Academy

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DELTA ELECTRICITY

COMMUNITY

NEWS Vales Point l Munmorah

Central Coast and Lake Macquarie – March 2015

Locals Celebrate

Message from the Chief Executive Welcome to the first Community News for the year.

Delta Electricity was proud to kick-off 2015 by celebrating Australia Day with more than 600 neighbours at our annual Big Breakfast at Mannering Park. Thanks to the Gwandalan Lions volunteers, the event was again a great success.

The end of January marked a major milestone for Delta, with the sale of the gas-fired Colongra Power Station to Snowy Hydro. The sale has no impact on Delta’s buffer zones and community access areas as only a small footprint of land around the station was sold. A map can be viewed on de.com.au.

Delta retains ownership of Vales Point Power Station and the Government is considering future sale options for this asset. In the meantime, it’s business as usual for Delta and our employees. Vales Point remains a well-maintained station and an important generator in the National Electricity Market.

Delta will also continue to manage the decommissioned Munmorah Power Station.

Wyong Shire Council approved an application for the future demolition of the site last year. Scoping activities for the demolition project will begin soon and updates will be shared with the community closer to the demolition, which is not expected to start for at least another 12-18 months.

Celebrating our history is important to us and I’m pleased to share that the Vales Point ‘A’ Station heritage interpretive panel commemorating the story of the original station has been installed and can be viewed in front of the visitors’ car park at Vales Point.

On a final note, I would like to thank former General Manager Central Coast, Glenn Sharrock, for his outstanding contribution to Delta since it was formed in 1996. Glenn retired from the business last month and will be remembered for his enthusiasm in environmental protection and engaging in community matters. We wish Glenn all the best for his retirement.

COMMUNITY

Each year Delta holds a free Australia Day Big Breakfast at Mannering Park as a thank you to locals for their ongoing support.

This year the Australian spirit was on display as more than 600 Aussieflag-flaunting locals – many also dressed in green and gold – tucked into a great spread, which included bacon and eggs rolls. The lively atmosphere and sense of community goodwill continued throughout the morning, with the ever-popular Duck Race raising funds for the Manno Mens Shed. A big thank you goes to the volunteers from the Gwandalan Lions for their help on the day, especially behind the BBQ.

New Decking for Breakaway Cabins

Environment Update Sediment control works have been carried out at the former Munmorah Power Station coal stockpile to prevent erosion of the land after several heavy rainfalls in the area.

Representatives from Delta, together with Tuggerah Local Area Command Youth Liaison Officers, recently presented to students at Mannering Park Public School and NorthLakes High School on how to be safety smart around power stations.

The primary school sessions introduced students to how electricity is produced at power stations and how Delta keeps its employees and neighbours safe while the high school students were warned that entering privately-owned land is against the law.

Based on the success of the presentations, Delta plans to present to other local schools. Schools should email Hayley.Berg@de.com.au if they are interested in Delta visiting their school.

Delta Electricity has assisted Camp Breakaway purchase materials to replace the timber landings on its eight A-frame cabins.

The sponsorship reflects a long-standing partnership between Delta and Camp Breakaway, which has been providing respite care for children and adults with disabilities and their carers since 1982.

New Apprentices

LOCAL ECONOMY

Fundraising Co-ordinator Denise Pastor thanked Delta for their support.

Delta Electricity continued our long tradition of supporting local youth employment on the Central Coast by taking on five new apprentices in January.

“The new landings look ‘very schmick’. Without Delta’s generosity we would not have been able to cover the costs of materials to replace them. A huge and sincere thanks for Delta for the wonderful donation.”

Thanks also goes to the local volunteers who donated their time and labour to the building project.

Four first-year apprentices attended Vales Point Power Station before starting their courses at the new Hunter Valley Training Centre at Rutherford.

Scholarships Closing Soon

There they will join 23 other electrical and mechanical apprentices from the power generation and mining industry to learn essential workplace and safety skills before returning to site in July, joining a second-year mechanical apprentice who is already working at Vales Point as part of the coal team.

EDUCATION

The scholarships offer financial support to young undergraduate students who have successfully completed their first year of study.

ENVIRONMENT

EDUCATION

COMMUNITY

Applications are now open for three Delta Electricity University of Newcastle scholarships.

Greg Everett Delta Electricity Chief Executive

Schools Safety Program

Applicants must be under 21, reside on the Central Coast or Lake Macquarie and be enrolled as full-time in any undergraduate program at Ourimbah Campus.

One scholarship is specifically for an Indigenous student. Selection will be on the basis of academic merit. Applications should be made to the University of Newcastle and close on 15 March 2015.

The project is a temporary solution to enhance existing sediment control measures before the site demolition project, which is tentatively scheduled to start in 2016. New erosion control measures include laying down several 100m long compost filter “socks” to absorb and reduce the flow of rainfall run-off in the area.

Vales Point Power Station

Munmorah Power Station

T 02 4352 6111

T 02 4352 6111

Delta’s apprenticeship program provides valuable industrial experience and is a great start to a career.

What’s On?

al GOATS Festiv ay Join in the all-d this at ns io at br le ce family S year’s GOAT ld at he be y, 12 April. festival to emo on Sunda R an S k, ar P Centre Koala eighbourhood San Remo N d led an fil ty y ci da tri t ec ea Delta El d enjoy a gr an g on alls. al e m and market st invite you to co t, rides, food en m in rta te en with music, more Electricity for sored by Delta on cases the sp ow ly sh t ud ro en P hol-free ev co al e th ians. s, ar l young music than 10 ye range of loca e rs ve di a of talents nteers. pends on volu de t en ev e th se call the Each year t involved plea ge e lik ld 90 7888. ou w If you Centre on 43 od ho ur bo gh ei San Remo N