Issue 99 of Wyong Regional Chronicle

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August 30, 2016

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Issue 99

Developer goes to Land and Environment Court because Council was too slow

Members of the Say No to Glenning Valley Development group held a peaceful vigil after learning the DA was now in the hands of the Land and Environment Court

the proposed be a Class One and will “Even if the council to he developer of a proposed 264-lot residential subdivision at be dealt with, at least Glenning Valley has lodged a Deemed Refusal application with was going to refuse or development. initially, by a mediator, “The community at pass the development all the NSW Land and Environment Court.

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The developer has taken the step because Central Coast Council took longer than the 40 to 60 days it is legally given to consider a development application.

By dragging its feet, Central Coast Council has given the developer, GV Nominees, the opportunity to ask the Land and Environment

Court to consider the DA. Ms Kylie Boyle from the ‘Say No to Glenning Valley Development’ group said the first Land and Environment Court date was September 29.

“We found out about the Deemed Refusal directly from the Central Coast Council Adminstrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, when we met

him at a Community Environment Network meeting,” Ms Boyle said.

The Central Coast Council has not announced any intentions in relation to the position it will take on the future of the development when it reaches the Land and Environment Court.

“They are sitting on the fence,” Ms Boyle said.

along, they can look like the good guys if the Land and Environment Court makes the decision,” she said.

Following the announcement of the Deemed Refusal application, protestors and residents again rallied peacefully at the edge of Glenning Valley’s bushland on August 14 to show their opposition

Glenning Valley will not stand down,” Ms Boyle said.

“We are prepared to fight and do whatever it takes to stop this development.

“We are hoping that Council will represent us and stand with us in saying no at the meeting with the LEC,” she said.

According to Ms Boyle, the matter will

but the community group has been given no details about what will take place on September 29.

“I have had other developers tell me they would not touch that land because it is so ecologically sensitive,” Ms Boyle said.

Media Release, Aug 15, 2016 Kylie Boyle, Glenning Valley

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July 28, 2016

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Council election needs to be held before September 2017 - Primrose

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council election needs to be held on the Central Coast before the September 2017 date currently put forward by the NSW Government, according to the state’s shadow minister for local government, Mr Peter Primrose.

Mr Primrose was responding to questions about how residents could ensure the Central Coast Council administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, could be accountable to the community for issues such as building a regional performing arts centre and regional library in Gosford, cleaning up the Mangrove Mountain landfill, reclassification and sale of community land, or progressing other major developments in the Gosford CBD. “How could you possibly expect one person to be administrator and still apply the same level of oversite and consultation as nine councillors and a mayor,” Mr Primrose said.

“We have been finding that councils under administration have been putting their business papers out late, there has been far less business discussed at meetings and the administrator can’t possibly go to the dozens of meetings and talk to community groups and constituents that former councillors would have gone to.

“That is where things that the community was concerned about would have been flagged and where elected councillors would have been able to test out opinions about things and know what to raise,” he said.

“Those are the sorts of things that make local government local and whether or not you support the amalgamations, why on earth are the administrators continuing until September 2017?”

Mr Primrose said he had made formal requests to the Electoral Commissioner and the premier, Mr Mike Baird, under the Government Information Public Access Act 2009 (GIPA) asking them to show reasons why the elections for merged councils can’t be held until September 2017.

back to the premier.”

Mr Primrose said the NSW Government and Central Coast Council could also provide the community with more information about the cost of the council merger.

“We know from the past the costs and outcomes of previous mergers, so the

“How could you possibly expect one person to be administrator and still apply the same level of oversite and consultation as nine councillors and a mayor,” Mr Primrose said.

“They won’t tell us…they have refused my application stating it is not in the public interest to tell me why we can’t have elections earlier so I am going to the administrative appeals tribunal,” Mr Primrose said.

“Why can’t the continuing merger happen with the oversite of an elected council and mayor?

“Be they sinners of saints, the administrators are not representatives of the local community,” he said.

Mr Primrose said although the administrator was paid out of council (ratepayer) funds, he was accountable to Mr Baird, not the community.

“They are obliged to provide voluminous reports back to the premier; initially it was weekly, but they’ve now scaled that back to fortnightly, but it is not about financial details, it is only the good news stories, so the state government can create positive headlines about its mergers,” he said.

“There cannot be proper scrutiny when all the gatekeepers are reporting

department of Premier and Cabinet should be able to give estimates of current merger costs now,” he said.

Mr Primrose also addressed questions about how long the community should have to wait until Mr Reynolds had received and analysed reports on controversial issues such as the former Gosford Council’s proposed Land Sale Strategy that could result in twenty five community reserves being reclassified as operational land and sold off for development.

“If it was a full council, I would say a month, but you have got one individual, and it is very difficult to expect one person to do the job while they are also engaging in staff reviews and writing reports for the premier,” he said.

“The proper solution is to let the local community elect its own local council,” he said.

Interview, Jul 20, 2016 Peter Primrose, NSW shadow minister for local government Jackie Pearson, journalist

August 2, 2016

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An artist’s impression of the mixed use development approved for 155 to 161 Mann St Gosford

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section 96 application is being considered by Central Coast Council for the $17.6 million redevelopment of the Dutton’s Tavern site at 157 to 161 Mann St Gosford.

The application will see a reduction in the number of units, increased basement parking and the inclusion of the land at 163 Mann St, located between the development site and the Imperial Centre.

The former Gosford Council approved DA47056/2015 in December for a 14-storey mixed use development comprised of a tavern and shop top housing.

The development was subsequently acquired from Mr Bob Bourne by Mr John Singleton and the adjoining property at 163 Mann St

was acquired.

The latest application to modify the development, now called Bonython, was received by Central Coast Council on May 27 and is currently working its way through a consultation process.

Council granted the development a two-year consent, so work will need to be underway before December 2017 to ensure the approval for the project does not lapse.

The development will include a tavern, provide new residential opportunities and has the

advantage of being located close to public transport.

Gosford Council approved a minor variation in the floor space ratio for the development and made allowances for car parking.

Two podium levels will include 15 residential units.

Floors three through to 12 will house another 54 residential units and there will be two penthouse apartments on the top floor.

Website, Jul 27, 2016 Central Coast Council Find an application, DA47056/2015

The existing Tavern

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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Issue 97

Wallarah 2 coal mine decision now only a few weeks away he Australian Coal Alliance is organising a public meeting to inform the northern Central Coast community about the latest developments in their long-running campaign to stop the Wallarah 2 coal mine.

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Edition 399

Issue 138

Director of the alliance’s Water Not Coal campaign, Mr Alan Hayes, said the meeting would be held at Wyong RSL on August 10.

The Korean mining company KORES has lodged an amended development proposal that includes plans to build a conveyor belt and alter the route of the rail spur to avoid having to reach an agreement with the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Plans have been modified relating to the rail loop, rail spur line and train load out facility.

The project has been modified to realign the sewer connection.

The State Significant Development was recently lodged with the Planning Assessment Commission and is on public exhibition (but not advertised in this newspaper) for six weeks, with a closing date of September 6.

According to Mr Hayes, the Planning Assessment Commission did not approve the coal mine in 2014, but stated that there may be justification to approve the mine if all the commission’s

The Greens NSW mining spokesperson, Mr Jeremy Buckingham, has called on NSW premier, Mr Mike Baird, to intervene to stop the Wallarah 2 underground coal mine project.

“The Coalition made a solemn promise not to allow the Wallarah 2 coal mine to go ahead,” Mr Buckingham said.

“Former premier, Mr Barry O’Farrell, told a crowd that the mine would not go ahead ‘no ifs, no buts, a guarantee’.

“Yet years later, the NSW Coalition Government has failed to implement this promise,” Mr Buckingham said.

“This coal mine is a risk not only to the water catchment of the The latest plans include a relocated rail loop (shown in purple) Central Coast, but to the the main access to the credibility of the Liberal other concerns could be plans.

Party when it makes Mr Hayes said the new development. addressed. proposal Mr Hayes said that in commitments to the Those concerns development included the mine’s would see the conveyor 2014, Dr Peter Lewis, electorate.

“It should fulfil those impact on the Central belt transporting coal 200 the clinical director of the Coast’s water supply, metres from the south- Central Coast integrated commitments and reject subsidence and the health western boundary of the care program, said the the mine.

“The Korean Blue Haven residential expected mortality rate effects of coal dust. has The Darkinjung Local area and as far north as for coal dust related to the Government Wallarah 2 mine could be announced a restructure Aboriginal Land Council Wyee. of its state owned resource “Tooheys Rd would one on 100,000. took the matter to the “Wyong CBD is five companies that will see Land and Environment disappear because that Court, which ruled that road does not have a wide kilometres from the them withdraw from resource the mine could not go verge on either side and proposed coal handling international ahead without permission KORES doesn’t own any facilities, Blue Haven projects, so it is unclear to utilise Darkinjung land in that area, so they and Lake Haven are why the government would be wanting the even closer, and there should approve a mine land.

The new proposal does conveyor to run along the are schools, hospitals and plan for a company likely not include Darkinjung carriage way,” Mr Hayes aged care facilities,” Mr to leave the market.

“There is no need to said.

Hayes said. land.

The Darkinjung “The Planning build this coal mine.

CEO of the Darkinjung “The community are LALC, Mr Sean Gordon, Local Aboriginal Land Assessment Commission bitterly opposed. declined to comment Council already has has rejected four coal “The company doesn’t on the impact the latest approval for a 500 lot mines already this year Wallarah II proposal may residential sub-division because of their proximity want to build it, it just have on the Darkinjung that would be impacted to residential areas,” he wants an approval to sell.

“It’s a dud mine, with land and development because Tooheys Rd is said.

no future, that Mike Baird should knock on the head.

“The proposed coal conveyor belt and coal loading area are unacceptably close to the existing residential neighbourhood of Blue Haven and may impact on plans by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council for residential development in the area.”

Central Coast Council concerns about the effect on the drinking water catchment, environment and residential areas, will be central to its review of modified plans for the Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

The former Wyong Shire Council opposed the mine in February 2014 due to the potential impacts on the drinking water catchment areas.

The former Gosford City Council also opposed the project in March 2014.

Council has stated it intends to closely review the revised plans with a view to lodging a submission.

Council has also encouraged community members to take this opportunity to have their voice heard.

Information regarding the project is available from NSW Planning’s major projects website.

Media release, Jul 26, 2016 Central Coast Council media Media release, Jul 26, 2016 Max Phillips, office of Jeremy Buckingham Interview, Jul 29, 2017 Alan Hayes, Australian Coal Alliance Jackie Pearson, journalist

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

8 August 2016

The Peninsula is becoming the granny flat capital of the Central Coast, according to Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales.

At the same time, during the past two years, it has experienced a medium density development slowdown, he said.

Mr Wales said onerous mediumdensity development control plans were the reason for the trend.

He said the evidence was that council had reported no increase in Section 94 contributions during that period.

“Most unit developments on the Peninsula are from older approvals before the Development Control Plans were changed for medium density requirements,” Mr Wales said.

He said he believed investors were finding it more lucrative to build granny flats than to build units for sale.

According to Mr Wales, granny flats on the Peninsula were generating investment returns of between five and six per cent.

In most locations a home on the Peninsula with a granny flat would achieve a sale price of around $800,000, Mr Wales said.

High demand for rental properties made it possible to purchase a granny flat, have it constructed and tenanted within 10 weeks.

The investment outlay for an attractive granny flat would be between $120,000 and $140,000 and weekly rentals can vary from $300 to $450 per week.

Weekly rental income on a Peninsula investment property with a granny flat in the back garden could be as high as $800 – a much better return than currently on offer from term deposits or shares.

The popularity of granny flats

did have its down side, according to Mr Wales.

It was possible to construct a granny plan without lodging a development application with council under State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009.

By providing a granny flat that would be deemed to be affordable housing, all that was required was a complying development certificate, which meant no council involvement.

The need for a development application could be triggered if the person building the granny flat needed to remove a tree or put in drainage, Mr Wales said.

The granny flat tenants put pressure on local roads, town centres, infrastructure and amenities but the development “did not put a single cent into council coffers”, he said.

A granny flat was not rated separately, the council did not earn any Section 94 contributions from its development and the developer did not have to provide any parking, he said.

As a snapshot, applications for 20 granny flats on the Peninsula were determined during July 2016.

That’s around 240 additional dwellings on the Peninsula per year that did not pay rates.

If council was to introduce a Section 94 contribution of $5000 per granny flat, they would earn $1.2 million per year to reinvest in Peninsula infrastructure.

Interview, 3 Aug 2016 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Reporter: Jackie Pearson Peninsula News has asked council for verification of the level of Section 94 contributions and medium density development applications and will report its response in the next edition.

August 11, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

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ocuments obtained by the Mountain Districts Association from the NSW Office of Water, show the landfill at Mangrove Mountain has flouted legal requirements necessary to protect natural water resources, since at least 2005.

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New safety warnings are difficult to miss when using the rail underpass

Rail underpass re-opened The Woy Woy Road rail underpass re-opened on August 1, following the completion of emergency repair works by Sydney Trains over the last three months.

Sydney Trains finished constructing protection columns around the rail bridge’s support structures and installing new, 2.5

metre height restriction bars on both sides of the underpass.

Central Coast Council was putting the finishing touches on Sydney Trains repair works over last weekend (August 6-7) by installing median strips on the approaches to the underpass.

The council has asked motorists to be aware that the underpass’ height limit has been reduced to 2.5 metres.

Anyone towing a caravan, carrying oversized objects on roof racks or driving a truck must use an alternate route.

Sydney Trains closed the underpass in April after a large truck attempted to use it and became wedged underneath one of the previous height restriction bars.

Media release, 1 Aug 2016 Ron Noble, Central Coast Council

The association used the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 to access documents that tell a damning story of malfeasance by two landfill operators, the Gosford Council and the NSW Environmental Protection Authority, in relation to their responsibility to keep the Central Coast’s water supply safe.

The documents show that officers from the NSW Office of Water, within the Department of Primary Industries (and its former equivalents), have been raising concerns about the operation of the landfill for at least 10 years (2005 to 2015).

Despite concerns raised by the Office of Water, Gosford Council, as consent authority, and the EPA as the licencing authority, continued to allow the landfill to operate.

The Mountain Districts Association has been requesting a meeting with the former Gosford Council, and the new Central Coast Council, since January 2016.

The new Central Coast Council has finally agreed to meet with the Mountain

An Office of Water photo from 2012 showing poor management of ground and surface water at the landfill

Districts Association on August 23 to discuss the landfill.

The EPA, although it has agreed to an independent review of the landfill’s operations, continues to work with the operator to apply new licencing conditions which would allow the site to recommence taking waste.

The EPA has informed the Mountain Districts Association that, during the week from August 1 to 5, the EPA and Office of Water met the landfill operator at the site to again discuss water licencing and approvals.

The GIPA documents outlining past failures to deal with water licencing and approvals are extensive and detailed.

This article includes only key points in the documents,

but the facts uncovered support the Mountain Districts Association’s call for a full commission of inquiry by the NSW Government, the immediate closure of the landfill and full remediation of the site.

2015 Documents from 2012 to 2015 relate to future activities proposed at the landfill if the EPA issues new licencing conditions.

The most recent document from the Office of Water was dated September 2015, following an inspection of the landfill site by officers which confirmed recent construction work undertaken to reshape a sediment dam wall and construct a new spillway.

“Recent works are not to an acceptable standard and

likely to fail,” the document said.

This work was subject to the Land and Environment Court Consent of 2012 but, according to the document,

unsatisfactory.

According to the report: “It appears that no formal …review has been required to consider the potential groundwater impacts of this development.

“The nature of the activity, and the magnitude and sensitivity of the location warrant an assessment of the potential impacts against the Aquifer Interference Policy ‘minimal impact considerations’, should the development proceed [under yet-to-be finalised new EPA licencing conditions],” the document said.

In terms of whether the existing landfill has had any impact on groundwater, an August 2012 site inspection by the Office of Water concluded: “Evidence gathered onsite indicates that the groundwater table has been intercepted by excavation with seepages noted up to approximately half the height of the pit.

“Recent works are not to an acceptable standard and likely to fail.” had been carried out without Controlled Activity Approval being granted by the Office of Water.

2014 In January 2014 the Office of Water commented that proposals for groundwater monitoring at the site were

“Inspection of the river and the waterfront land along the northern boundary indicates significant harm caused by sedimentation and uncontrolled runoff.

“The wall of the basin appears likely to fail and cause additional major harm to the river.

“Leechate seepage entering surface water stormwater drains

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Issue 139

indicates high potential for contamination of surface waters and groundwaters.”

The officer who completed the site inspection recommended immediate compliance action for the extraction of groundwater, damage to waterfront land and to refuse an application for controlled activity approval.

The “waterfront” referred to was described by the Office of Water as “forming part of the headwaters of the Wyong River”.

The landfill operator (Verde Terra) responded by supplying the Office of Water with information that Gosford Council had granted a Section 96 amendment to its original development consent and an addendum to a Landfill Environmental Management Plan.

Verde Terra was told they had no consent under the Water Management Act 2000 to undertake proposed works.

2012 According to the Office of Water documents, Gosford Council did not express concerns to the Office of Water about the landfill’s activities being potentially in breach of its development consent until August 2012.

The years 2011 and 2012 represented a period of heightened correspondence between the Office of Water, Gosford Council and the landfill operator.

Continued Page 8

THIS ISSUE contains 69 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Documents obtained under Freedom of Information reveal damning evidence of neglect

Peninsula becoming ‘granny flat capital’, says Chamber

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Dutton’s Tavern redevelopment update

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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August 16, 2016

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Issue 98

Wallarah 2 seen as a threat on many levels ember for W y o n g and NSW Shadow Minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, will speak at a Water Not Coal meeting to be held at the Blue Haven Community Centre on August 18, following his call for the NSW Government to buy back the Wallarah 2 exploration licence.

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The latest proposal from South Korean mining company KORES could see a coal conveyor belt, rail spur, and coal stock pile, located within 200 metres of Blue Haven homes.

A nine-storey coal loader would also be visible from Blue Haven and would come within 300 metres of houses in the new residential suburb to be developed by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council.

The amended development application and Environmental Impact Statement are currently on public exhibition.

Mr Harris said he called on the NSW Baird Government to buy back the Wallarah 2 exploration licence after the government confirmed they would pay BHP $220 million to buy back their mining licence for the proposed Caroona mine in the Liverpool plains.

“The Baird /O’Farrell government promised to stop Wallarah 2 in 2011 as an election commitment,” Mr Harris said.

“The proposed Wallarah 2 project would be beneath our water

An underground shearer that grinds coal from the seam, dumps it on a conveyor and lets the roof of the mine fall down behind it that could cause subsidence and damage to the water aquifer

catchment, a catchment that supplies water to 320,000 people,” he said.

He said KORES, the Korean Government owned mining company that holds the mining exploration licence, is reportedly suffering financial issues, raising more doubts about the viability of the proposed project.

“The Wallarah 2 mine proposal has been a major election issue since 2011 at both a state and Federal level.

“It featured heavily most recently in the 2016 Federal election, when Labor won the seat of Dobell on a platform opposing the mine.

“Mike Baird was the Shadow Treasurer in 2011, and must have supported the infamous Liberal ‘No ifs, no buts, a guarantee’ election

promise.

“If the Baird government can … use taxpayers’ money in Caroona, then we have every right to expect the same here, particularly given their previous election promises.

“To continue to ignore their solemn commitment is nothing more than political bastardry.”

An earlier Australian Coal Alliance meeting was held at Wyong RSL on August 10 to update the community about the latest attempts by KORES to have the Wallarah 2 underground coal mine approved by the NSW Planning Assessment Commission as a State Significant Development.

The meeting was attended by around 180 locals who came from as far afield as The Entrance and Terrigal.

Spokesperson for The Greens Central Coast, Ms Kate da Costa, who attended the meeting, said: “The proposal is that the conveyor belt and stock pile will be operating 24 hours and seven days a week for 30 years, so freight trains will be loading coal from an un-covered conveyor belt around the clock.”

According to Ms da Costa, the only part of the development application that KORES has changed is the mechanism for getting the coal from the mine to the train.

She said the NSW Government’s requirement for the Planning Assessment Commission to “prioritise economic outcomes” when assessing developments, meant the mine’s approval was still a possibility.

“But the commission even found KORES’ economic argument for the mine overblown and not particularly compelling,” she said.

The clincher, for Ms da Costa, was that KORES’ own Environmental Impact Statement conceded that a coal mine in such a populated area “could increase mortality by one in 100,000 people per year.

“There are over 300,000 people living on the Central Coast so that is three deaths per year,” she said.

According to Ms da Costa, community members at the August 10 meeting expressed a sense of frustration that they had been fighting the Wallarah 2 coal mine for 11 years.

“This is an important fight to win, and the Blue

Haven meeting is an important step, because I am sure that there are many people in Blue Haven and other nearby areas that do not know this thing is going to be on their doorstep,” she said.

The Australian Coal Alliance has also raised concerns about mine subsidence, air extraction from the proposed mine and that approval of the project could allow dumping of water into local lakes and/or the ocean.

“The best analogy I can come up with is that it would be the same as allowing an underground coal mine in the Sydney Hills District with a coal loader in the middle of Castle Hill,” said the Australian Coal Alliance’s Water Not Coal Campaign Director, Mr Alan Hayes.

“When you talk about coal dust, you are talking about fine micro particles (micron) that can’t be seen by the naked eye but are carried many kilometres by the wind and will get into your lungs and cause all sorts of respiratory problems,” Mr Hayes said.

“The NSW Government wants the whole northern area of the Central Coast zoned for housing, but if you had a young family, would you go to coal mine central to raise your children?” he said.

Media release, Aug 12, 2016 Zachary Harrison, office of David Harris Interview, Aug 12, 2016 Kate da Costa, Central Coast Greens Interview, Aug 12, 2016 Alan Hayes, Australian Coal Alliance Jackie Pearson, journalist

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

22 August 2016

A survey of fuel prices has shown Peninsula prices are comparable with the rest of the Coast.

Prices collected by Mr Rod Munson of Ettalong have provided a comparison of Peninsula priceswith the lowest prices available on the Coast and in Newcastle and Sydney.

The most expensive fuel on the Central Coast was found in Woy Woy at Shell and BP with E10 costing 119.9 cents per litre, 16 cents more per litre than Woolworths Umina.

Woolworths Umina and Caltex in Blackwall did have some of the

Prices gathered by Rod Munson on August 13 at midday and from comparethemarket and NRMA on August 15

cheapest E10 prices on the Central Coast in the 104.9 cents per litre or less.

Only six petrol stations across the Central Coast had E10 petrol at less than 104.9 cents per litre.

Caltex Foresters Beach, Caltex Star Mart Long Jetty, 7 Eleven The Entrance and BP Tumbi Umbi also had E10 prices at 104.9 cents per litre and under.

For all fuel types, Caltex Blackwall had the best average prices on the Peninsula.

Caltex appeared to offer the best priced fuel anywhere on the Central Coast.

Mr Munson conducted his price checks on August 13 at around midday.

The cheapest E10 fuel was located at Woolworths Umina, priced at 103.9 per litre.

The cheapest regular unleaded was an eight- minute drive away at United in Empire Bay priced at 110.7 per litre.

Since the survey was undertaken, the price at Woolworths Umina dropped to 99.8 cents last Friday.

The cheapest diesel on the Peninsula was at Caltex Woy Woy and Blackwall at 116.9 per litre.

However, Empire Bay’s regular unleaded is seven cents cheaper than any of its competition.

Peninsula drivers appear to be paying the highest fuel prices on the Central Coast but the whole Coast is still paying more than its northern or southern city neighbours.

Newcastle and The Hunter, for example, had over 20 fuel options at under 103.9 a litre.

Newcastle residents, by comparison, have the potential to fill up at under 98.9 per litre for E10 at some stations, with the maximum price compared to the Central Coast six cents cheaper at 113.9 cents per litre.

As of August 15, Sydney had the cheapest fuel prices in NSW according to the NRMA with Newcastle coming in at fifth.

The Central Coast was ranked 10th, up six places since August, 7.

Email, 15 Aug 2016 Rod Munson, Ettalong Websites, 18 Aug 2016 Comparethemarket.com.au Nrma.com.au Reporter: Cole Newman

August 25, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

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Issue 140

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis with no plan in place

Peninsula fuel prices comparable with Coast

osford City is facing a parking crisis, with uncertainty, confusion and c o n g e s t i o n surrounding the city’s major car parks.

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Residents of Empire Bay gathered to discuss key infrastructure issues

Residents gather for action on roads More than 70 residents from Empire Bay and Bensville attended the inaugural meeting of the Empire Bay and Districts Roads Action Group to participate in a Future Directions Workshop on August 2.

The workshop discussed the major issues residents wanted addressed by governments.

A Residents’ Committee was formed to work on a document to present to Member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch, at the bi-monthly Empire Bay Progress Association meeting.

“All of the views expressed at the meeting will be included in the report under main headings.

“Long term residents explained that, over the last decade or so, they had been frustrated by Council not doing work to remediate the terrible condition of the roads and stormwater drainage or to invest in pedestrian safety improvements such as pathways, even though studies had been made and money allocated to do much of the work,” Mr Olsen said.

“During the meeting we split into

small groups to discuss the main areas of concern and each group was invited to report to the whole assembly.

“Very soon three main issues appeared namely, the non-existent drainage, poor and dangerous condition of our roads neglected over many years and the need for safe pedestrian access to the Empire Bay Public School via Greenfield Rd.” Mr Olsen said, as the meeting progressed the general mood became one of hope.

“Residents came away from the meeting with the understanding that we need to be a strong and committed community, determined to get the change we want,” he said.

According to Mr Olsen, the group agreed that their vision was for a wider coalition of the geographically-linked communities of Empire Bay, Bensville, Daleys Point and South Kincumber and that each locale needs to put before Council their specific needs and be supported by the other areas.

“We see ourselves in cooperation not competition for the resources required to improve the

amenity of our district, going into bat for each other when the need arises,” Mr Olsen said.

The Empire Bay Progress Association is having its bimonthly meeting on August 16, at the Empire Bay Progress Hall from 7:30pm.

Mr Crouch, will be attending.

“The first meeting highlighted that we really need to have a member of Council attend the bimeeting because the matters that need addressing require the cooperation of both State and Local Government,” Mr Olsen added.

Mr Olsen also said the Action Group would be requesting the attendance of a Council representative at the bi-monthly meeting.

“A document outlining the residents’ concerns will be presented to Mr Crouch and we expect action for these matters,” Mr Olsen said.

According to Mr Olsen, many of the issues raised by residents had been known to Council for decades without appropriate responses.

Interview, 2 Aug 2016 Gregory Olsen, Empire Bay and Districts Roads Action Group Reporter: Dilon Luke

With the fate of the 400 free car parks atop Kibbleplex (formerly Marketplace) unclear, commuters already fed up with Gosford’s parking situation are concerned about the city’s lack of dedicated free parking.

The potential loss of the free Kibbleplex parking is not the end of Gosford’s parking woes, with commuters questioning the safety and useability of the Baker St car park, and outright dismissal of the free commuter parking opposite Gosford Train Station, which is nonexistent after 6am.

To make matters worse, with the controversial ATO building poised to begin construction on the waterfront, the political promise of 600 jobs may prove disastrous for commuters when an army of temporary workers and the building’s permanent staff descend on the city’s highly sought after parking spaces.

The ATO, which has already soured residents who believed the former Gosford School site was better suited to a Performing Arts Precinct, was revealed to have a shortfall of onsite parking for future employees.

In June, the Joint Regional Planning Panel found that the ATO’s developer, Doma, would need to add 13 extra parking spaces for the public in Baker St. Despite the JRPP’s findings, it is unclear whether this will be enough to accommodate the dramatic increase in activity and traffic to and around the site, and according to former Gosford Councillor, Ms Vicki Scott, the ATO is

The commuter car park opposite Gosford Train Station

not the only development in the city that has the potential to tip the parking issue over the edge.

Ms Scott said the CBD and the immediate surrounding areas of West Gosford, North Gosford, East Gosford and Point Frederick, are definitely facing a parking shortfall, and that residential developments approved, despite not providing adequate parking allocation, were to blame.

“Parking issues are more than just availability of commuter parking.

“Many of the residential developments that have been approved in the CBD and immediate surrounds are for two or three bedroom units, but the parking allocation has only been one per unit, not one spot per bedroom.

“So if a three-bedroom unit becomes share housing, one resident will have a car park within the development but where will the other two residents park?

“They will be looking for spots on the street,” Ms Scott said.

Ms Scott also said that the problem is already evident in areas like Point Frederick and East Gosford, where flat buildings have come online and street parking is still an issue.

“Although the former Gosford Council discussed and intended to come up with a CBD parking strategy, I have checked and there isn’t one.

“There is nothing in place.

“What will happen when all the big developments come online and what will happen to parking if they all start at the same time?

“Where will the parking be?” Ms Scott questioned.

According to Ms Scott, during discussions with the former Gosford Council, she brought up issues of traffic and parking management multiple times, including: “The acceptance of a number of large developments in the CBD without having adequate

parking for residents of those developments and others; cramped parking around developments in Point Frederick (Lynn Ave) and other sites in North and West Gosford; the lack of common sense in agreeing to allow developments of two and three bedroom apartment buildings to be constructed with only one car space per unit at best (Ms Scott said there was an expectation that people will walk or take the bus to the station); the narrow streets in some of these areas and the existing parking problem; and, consideration for the huge impact when the new developments are completed.

“I had suggested we should do a traffic management study for the area with these concerns in mind, but there appeared to be minimal interest in my concerns,” Ms Scott added.

On the concerns surrounding Baker St car park, Ms Scott said the former council had

endeavoured to add more floors onto the car park but said there were issues with the building being able to support extra floors and that she was unsure as to whether or not any further action surrounding Baker St car park occurred after the initial idea tanked.

However, Ms Scott said she could understand commuter concerns over the safety of using Baker St car park, especially after hours.

Ms Scott also said that aside from the future of Kibbleplex, no other discussion took place amongst the former Gosford Council in regards to parking in the CBD and that despite her own questions about the future of parking in Gosford City, there has been no satisfactory response.

The issue is further complicated by the interrelation of parking as a social issue and a State Government responsibility.

“There is an element of responsibility for the State

August 30, 2016

Government in this.

“Rail transport, as a form of commuter travel, is the responsibility of the State Government and there is some expectation that that government takes an active interest in the problem.

“However, socially, it is seen as a Local Government matter, and the public expects Local Government to play a part in it as well.

“To my knowledge, there were no plans or strategies discussed between the last council and the State Government to address the issues of commuter parking,” Ms Scott said.

“I hope the current council takes these concerns and acts on them before any more development is approved.

“The city CBD and the surrounding suburbs is a small area.

“The CBD has three streets taking the traffic through it.

“These streets are cramped between a mountain and the water.

“There is no apparent way to solve the problem, and increased parking demand is just exacerbating it.

“The fact that the DA for the ATO was allowed without sufficient parking is also going to exacerbate the problem,” Ms Scott continued.

“I don’t know what the council can do about this, but it certainly seems that the Federal and State Governments are failing in their responsibilities in this matter.

“I think, if the commuter car parking at Kibbleplex is stopped without a solution from the State and the council, and the ATO and other developments are actually built, car parking in the CBD, including commuter car parking, will be a disastrous problem that will take far too long to solve, if ever,” Ms Scott concluded.

Continued Page 8

THIS ISSUE contains 71 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

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Issue 99

Developer goes to Land and Environment Court because Council was too slow

Members of the Say No to Glenning Valley Development group held a peaceful vigil after learning the DA was now in the hands of the Land and Environment Court

the proposed be a Class One and will “Even if the council to he developer of a proposed 264-lot residential subdivision at be dealt with, at least Glenning Valley has lodged a Deemed Refusal application with was going to refuse or development.

“The community at initially, by a mediator, pass the development all the NSW Land and Environment Court.

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The developer has taken the step because Central Coast Council took longer than the 40 to 60 days it is legally given to consider a development application.

By dragging its feet, Central Coast Council has given the developer, GV Nominees, the opportunity to ask the Land and Environment

Court to consider the DA. Ms Kylie Boyle from the ‘Say No to Glenning Valley Development’ group said the first Land and Environment Court date was September 29.

“We found out about the Deemed Refusal directly from the Central Coast Council Adminstrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, when we met

him at a Community Environment Network meeting,” Ms Boyle said.

The Central Coast Council has not announced any intentions in relation to the position it will take on the future of the development when it reaches the Land and Environment Court.

“They are sitting on the fence,” Ms Boyle said.

along, they can look like the good guys if the Land and Environment Court makes the decision,” she said.

Following the announcement of the Deemed Refusal application, protestors and residents again rallied peacefully at the edge of Glenning Valley’s bushland on August 14 to show their opposition

Glenning Valley will not stand down,” Ms Boyle said.

“We are prepared to fight and do whatever it takes to stop this development.

“We are hoping that Council will represent us and stand with us in saying no at the meeting with the LEC,” she said.

According to Ms Boyle, the matter will

but the community group has been given no details about what will take place on September 29.

“I have had other developers tell me they would not touch that land because it is so ecologically sensitive,” Ms Boyle said.

Media Release, Aug 15, 2016 Kylie Boyle, Glenning Valley

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 - August 30, 2016 - P3 3

News

Pacific Hwy upgrade reaches major milestone major milestone was achieved during August on the $84 million Pacific Hwy and Wyong Rd upgrade at Tuggerah.

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The third of 10 bridge girders installed as part of the new bridge across the railway line on Wyong Rd

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, said 10 bridge girders were successfully installed as part of the new bridge across the railway on Wyong Rd. “This work is the largest of three upgrades on Wyong Rd, where major work started in January this year to improve traffic flow and safety,” Mr MacDonald said.

“The 10 girders, each weighing 48 tonnes, were transported on trucks up

to 30 metres long.

“A special 350 tonne crane, which was delivered on 23 separate trucks and took two days to set up for operation, was used to lift each girder into place.”

Mr MacDonald said it was a complex operation which required close collaboration with Sydney Trains to ensure work was completed during a planned shutdown of the railway line.

“Wyong Rd is the major road linking the Pacific Motorway with

Wyong, Tuggerah, The Entrance and surrounding coastal suburbs and the bridge is a key part of this upgrade, with completion expected in 2019, weather permitting,” Mr MacDonald said.

Work is progressing well on the other upgrades of Wyong Rd, with the intersection upgrade at Enterprise Dve expected to be finished at the end of 2016, weather permitting.

Media release, Aug 26, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald

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News

P44 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Warnervale Airport is now Central Coast Airport

Tenders called for major M1 upgrade he M1 Pacific Mtrwy upgrade between the Tuggerah and Doyalson interchanges is progressing, with tenders now invited to carry out major building work.

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Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, said Roads and Maritime Services is planning to rebuild and widen the M1 Pacific Mtrwy between the Tuggerah and Doyalson interchanges to improve traffic flow and safety as part of the $400 million Australian and NSW government funded M1 Productivity Package.

“The 12 kilometre section of the Mtrwy between Wyong Rd at Tuggerah and Doyalson Link Rd, is two lanes in each direction, and it has

he name Warnervale Airport has been changed to Central Coast Airport.

According to Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, the name change was in keeping with the newly-formed local government area known as the Central Coast Council.

“Warnervale Airport is the only airport in the newly-formed Central Coast local government area and is owned and operated by the Central Coast Council,” according to a report to the August 24 meeting of Central Coast Council.

“The Central Coast region is one of New South Wales’ largest local government areas without a recognised airport,” the report to council said.

Council took over the management and operation of Warnervale

Airport in March 2015 from the Central Coast Aero Club, who had previously managed the aerodrome for 25 years.

The Central Coast is recognised as the ninth largest region in Australia, yet it remains the only major population centre without a recognised airport, according to the report to council.

The name “Central Coast Airport” best reflects the identity and location of the airport.

C o m m u n i t y consultation was deemed unnecessary because the new name reflected the new local government area and the name that the community had given to the region.

Mr Laurie Eyes from the Central Coast Regional Airport Action

Group said he was concerned the airport name change could be a “way around the Warnervale Airport Restrictions Act 1996”, which has been the subject of a NSW Government review.

The Act places restrictions on the expansion of the airport.

“I put the proposition that the name change to Central Coast Airport … waved through council… may be a clever way to circumvent the current law of NSW,” Mr Eyes said.

Agenda item 3.2, Aug 24, 2016 Central Coast Council ordinary meeting Email, Aug 25, 2016 Laurie Eyes, Central Coast Airport Action group

and 7,000 freight vehicles each day.

“The successful contractor will be responsible for widening the motorway and upgrading interchanges at Sparks Rd and the Doyalson Link Rd. “Pre-qualified contractors are invited to submit tenders for major building work, which is scheduled to start in early 2017,” Mr MacDonald said.

Media release, Aug 4, 2016 Mitchell Cutting for Scot MacDonald MLC

Animal welfare facility upgraded

The runway at the newly named Central Coast Airport at Warnervale

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the highest volume of traffic of the remaining four lane sections between Sydney and Beresfield,” Mr MacDonald said.

“The upgrade involves widening the motorway to provide three lanes in each direction and rebuilding the concrete section of the road to provide a more durable and safer road,” he added.

Mr MacDonald said the upgrade is expected to increase traffic capacity on the M1 Pacific Mtrwy, which is one of the busiest transport corridors in Australia, used by more than 65,000 motorists

$100,000 upgrade to the animal care facility in Charmhaven has been completed.

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Council owns the building with the facility being operated by The Society of Companion Animal Rescuers, a not for profit organisation that connects Australian rescue groups with potential adopters in the community.

Council’s Manager of Building, Certification, Compliance and Health, Mr Jamie Loader, said that with the number of animals being abandoned on the Central Coast on the rise, it is important to have a facility that can cope with the demand.

“These improvements not only created safer and more comfortable accommodation for the visiting animals but

enhanced amenities for staff and visitors,” Mr Loader said.

“Funding has been used to replace the roof of the main building, upgrade security fencing, install air conditioning units, upgrade the security system and build retaining walls on the property of this facility.

“We understand the importance of this type of facility in our community and recognise the importance of companion animal welfare,” he added.

Spokesperson from the Society of Companion Animal Rescuers, Ms Marilyn Jurlina, said this upgrade was making a real difference to their work

and thanked Council for making animal welfare a priority.

“We are especially thankful for the new roof, the retaining walls and the concreting,” Ms Jurlina said.

“This work has greatly improved the comfort and safety of all animals, staff, volunteers and visitors to the facility.

“At the moment we have 65 cats and 35 dogs looking for a home and with this upgrade we are able to cope better with the demand.”

Anyone looking to adopt a pet should contact the facility or visit it at Depot Rd, Charmhaven.

Media release, Aug 18, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P5 5

News

Local Representation Committee met behind closed doors embers of the Lake Munmorah Progress Association were disappointed to find that they could not attend a meeting of Central Coast Council’s Local Representation Committee held at Gwandalan Community Hall on August 17.

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“Most of the former councillors were in the meeting but, to our surprise, it was closed to the public,” said association secretary, Mr Stuart Durie.

“We’ve got a few local issues up here and we just wanted to know how to get those issues in front of the committee,” Mr Durie said.

“I was representing the Lake Munmorah Progress Association with the intention of raising numerous local issues which appear to have gone off the rails since the council amalgamation,” he said.

Members of the Lake Munmorah Progress Association staged a protest outside the Community Hall

“We were told the meeting was not open to the public and asked to leave.

“Thankfully we were able to get an audience with the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rob Noble, who undertook to act as a conduit to have our issues heard.

“Councillor Best, who has represented this area for the past 20 years, was also supportive.”

Mr Noble has asked the association to liaise with him regarding local issues and, at this stage,

Mr Durie is hopeful of being allocated a date and time for a meeting with the Central Coast Council’s CEO. “We are hoping Mr Noble and, or Mr Reynolds, will come up to our next meeting, our door is always open, we are more than happy to consult,” he said.

“We want to make sure this area is not disadvantaged by the council amalgamation, but since amalgamation, it seems that some of the goalposts have moved.”

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In particular, plans to establish a permanent council hub or kiosk at the Lake Munmorah Woolworths Shopping Complex appear to have been taken off the drawing board.

“Wyong Council had plans for, and had chosen a location for, a permanent kiosk or hub where locals could do council transactions and the council would have a permanent presence, but it seems to have stalled,” he said.

Residents of suburbs

such as Lake Munmorah, Summerland Point and Gwandalan can perform some transactions at Lake Haven library or they need to drive to council’s chambers at Wyong to do their business, Mr Durie said.

The association had also been working with the former Wyong Council for a shared pathway to be built along the western side of the highway between the Woolworths centre and Carters Rd. “The pathway was to be funded by Woolworths under a Voluntary Planning Agreement but not until stage two of the development went ahead, and now it is uncertain that stage two will go ahead,” Mr Durie said.

He said the pathway was an important public safety issue for the local community as currently Lake Munmorah Public School students walk along the unpaved shoulder of the highway to get between their school and the shopping

centre.

Another high priority issue for the Lake Munmorah community was the $1 million skate park that the Wyong Council had resolved, prior to being dismissed in May, to build for the community.

The skate park was earmarked for construction on the corner of Colongra Bay Rd and the Pacific Hwy across from Woolworths.

“We want to know if it is still on the drawing board or whether it can be located at another site,” Mr Durie said.

“The other big issue is the Lake Munmorah Master Plan, which we believe is still critical, and we are keeping a watching brief at the moment, but we want to know that it won’t be drawn out for years,” he said.

Email, Aug 18, 2016 Interview, Aug 25, 2016 Stuart Durie, Lake Munmorah Progress Association Jackie Pearson, journalist

News

P66 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Rail Maintenance Facility angy Angy residents d o n n e d snorkels and masks for their latest protest against the inter-city train fleet maintenance facility proposed for their neighbourhood by State Rail.

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The protest, held on Sunday, August 21, was to show State Rail that the site selected was not the right choice.

“Transport for NSW (TfNSW) have signed off with Central Coast Council to build a huge 24/7 operational Intercity Rail Maintenance Facility in the quiet, rural valley of Kangy Angy,” according to long-term resident, Ms Tracey Stewart.

Residents fear that the NSW Government has not properly taken into account the severity of the flooding that occurs in the area, when other sites are readily available.

“I had to tell the first community liaison officer

Kangy Angy residents continue to protest against the proposed development of the inter-city rail maintenance fleet Photo: Noel Fisher

that it floods here,” Ms Stewart said.

“The former Wyong Council told TfNSW that it is a flood free area when it is actually known as the Ourimbah Floodplain.

“TfNSW believe that with the flooding, it’s

their issue, their problem, and I’ve said to them, it’s not your issue, it’s our issue, because we are the people who live here, and it’s not just us, it’s the people upstream and downstream who will be affected.

“It will be detrimental.”

According to the Kangy Angy Residents Action Group, if the development goes ahead, it will have a negative impact on Fountaindale, Palmdale, Palm Grove, Lisarow, Tuggerah

Lakes, Chittaway and the University of Newcastle Campus in Ourimbah, as well as on Kangy Angy.

“I have a son who has lived here since he was five.

“He’s learnt to live with flooding.

“He knows you don’t drive when it’s flooding.

“We’ve lost a cow through flooding, the current neighbours have lost livestock, losing quite a lot of cows and horses.

“People nearly lost their lives here in 2007, one neighbour had to be rescued, it was that bad, and there’s no doubt it will happen again.

“I hate to think of people losing their life because of what TfNSW are proposing to do.”

According to Mr John Asquith from the Community Environment Network, NSW Transport’s proposal to use hard-stand fill to fill in the wetland in order to make the proposed development possible “will displace flood waters and push them to other places.

“It’s going to have a much wider impact than just the facility,” Mr Asquith said.

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P7 7

News

looks like a done deal “State Rail is saying that the effect will only be on the place where it will be built.

“If they’re going to affect a wider area and a lot of people, by law, they are required to do an EIS…they’ve failed in their duty to look after the environment and the residents by not doing one,” he said.

Residents believe they have been excluded from the whole process.

Ms Michelle Nicholson’s front door could be as close as 110 metres away from the facility.

“We first found out about this project when our neighbour received a letter in their letter box saying there was something going to affect their property,” Ms Nicholson said.

“I attended a meeting that one of the neighbours was having with TfNSW the following week and they were actually quite surprised that I turned up to the meeting,” she said.

high price for this land?”

“In fact the site itself has steeply escalated in its predicted costs as flooding has had to come into consideration.

“It could cost $50150 million more than the other sites originally listed.”

Mr Asquith said the public had been refused access to the budget for the project.

“There’s not normally anything secret about the budget.

“Questions have been asked in Parliament about it and why there has been so much secrecy,” Mr Asquith said.

“They’ve really only shown us half the size of the project.

“They’re not Kangy Angy residents donned snorkels and flippers to demonstrate against nearby land being selected for an intercity rail maintenance committing themselves to Photo: Noel Fisher facility Stage Two. she could go speak to the “I was devastated.

“I was told I am not “If they committed, we “I can’t believe how animals and tell them that NSW -- three times its directly affected by what have no doubt they would is going on with the unfair this whole dealing they need to find a new market value. be required to do an EIS. home,” she said. maintenance facility even has been.”

He said residents have Mr Asquith said the little to no compensation Ms Nicholson has three thought I live right next small children under the land was acquired for heading their way if the door to it. $12.3 million dollars facility goes ahead.

“I got up from that age of 10.

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P88 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Rail Maintenance Facility looks like a done deal From Page 7 “They’re doing this limited development now and then they’re going to come back and say we are going to do a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) here to avoid the EIS. “There is quite a game going on here.

“If they are going to do the construction on the north side, there are going to have to be some compulsory acquisitions of private land, and they don’t want to reveal that yet.

“We think they need to be upfront, they have a responsibility as a public body to be honest with the local community, not to play games with them.”

An unidentified frog has also been discovered two nights consecutively by a scientist brought into the area.

Ecologists are alarmed that the facility’s construction could lead to the frog’s potential extinction before it has

been properly identified.

The federally-listed vulnerable species Melaluca biconvexa thrives in the area.

Other species seen in the area include the Powerful Owl, the echidna, the GreyHeaded Flying Fox, the Green and Gold Bell Frog and the platypus.

Residents are not opposed to the development itself, they are just asking for it to be relocated to one of the more appropriate sites originally proposed.

The undisclosed budget, an unidentified frog, an apparently flood free flood plain and a lack of transparency in community consultation has left the local community continuing to question what is really going on in their backyard.

An artist’s impression of the proposed train maintenance facility

Email, Aug 23, 2016 Ursula Da Silva, Kangy Angy Residents Action Group

If you’re reading this, so could up to 50,000 other people A detailed concept plan from the Review of Environmental Factors

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P9 W 9

News

Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Camp could be privatised he Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Camp, near Gwandalan, is reportedly on a list of eight camps to be privatised by the NSW Government.

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According to shadow minister for the Central Coast, Mr David Harris, just three centres, in Lennox Head, Jindabyne and North Narrabeen (Sydney Academy), will remain publically owned.

The others may be leased to private operators, Mr Harris said.

“All 11 centres across the state are an important part of their surrounding communities who rely on them to provide

Point Wolstoncroft Camp near Gwandalan

affordable outdoor spaces for school students to play before, during and after school sport, for school camps to be held, for aspiring athletes to train, for

corporate groups to hold leadership and team building exercises and for community groups and charities to hold a variety of events,” Mr Harris said.

School bus drivers take strike action

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chool transport services were interrupted on the morning of Monday, August 29, due to a stoppage by Busways bus drivers who are members of the Transport Workers’ Union of NSW.

Government and independent schools were alerted to the stoppage “to enable schools to get messages out last week”, according to Mr Richard Olsen, Secretary of the TWU. “ B u s w a y s management ignored all requests to negotiate with drivers regarding Enterprise Agreements,” Mr Olsen said.

“Busways also ignored the NSW Minister for Transport’s request last week for a speedy resolution to the issues,” he said.

“Member drivers tried very hard to send a message to Busways Management, avoiding inconvenience to commuters.

“Drivers are also objecting to the management of Busways attempting to drive home an Enterprise Agreement that had no input from members across depots.

“Busways continue to pursue their own version of an agreement rather than work with the agreement used widely

across the industry.

According to the union, some of the conditions that concerned drivers in the agreement proposed by Busways included: no guarantee of permanent work; drivers forced to answer anonymous complaints; no representation allowed at disciplinary meetings; company only to appoint workplace representatives; drivers will be forced to take leave when it suits the company; and, no company provided wage increases until 2018.

The stop work decision came shortly after the incident that had taken place on August 25, where plain-clothed driver’s disabled opal card reading machines allowing patrons on that day to travel by bus for free.

On the same day, Busways attempted to prevent Drivers taking legal industrial action in an application they made before the Fair Work Commission.

The case was

dismissed.

Secretary of the Transport Workers Union of NSW, Mr Richard Olsen, said the Union saw the stoppage as a last resort.

“Busways could have prevented the stoppage by agreeing to do what they should have done in the first place, negotiate with their drivers.

“Drivers do not want to inconvenience the public.

“The days where the ticket and Opal Card machines were not operating were aimed at providing a level of inconvenience to Busways management and the NSW Government.

“The NSW Minister for Transport, Mr Andrew Constance, suggested last week that Drivers are seeking to have the issues resolved quickly.

“It appears that Busways are not,” Mr Olsen concluded.

Media Release, Aug 26, 2016 Colin Henderson, Transport Union Workers Media Media release, Aug 28, 2016 Colin Henderson, Transport Workers Union NSW

“Privatising sport and recreation centres would mean private owners could price out schools and the community groups, limiting access to lower-income families,” he said.

“The Baird Government must rule out any privatisation or leasing of the public land these sport and recreation centres occupy to private

developers which would allow the devastating loss of vital facilities to eight NSW communities.

“This decision from NSW Premier, Mr Mike Baird, puts at risk a formative and important experience that many kids in our region cherish,” Mr Harris said.

“As a former teacher and principal, I have attended many camps

and know first-hand the important role they play in developing young people’s confidence and skills in an affordable way.

“For many children, it’s their first time away without family,” he said.

Media release, Aug 25, 2016 Zachary Harrison, office of David Harris

News

P10 P1 10 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Commercial fishermen visit NSW Parliament to air their views

Robson Civil Projects win Wyongah road works tender

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Member for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan, convened an open meeting for commercial fishers at NSW Parliament

ember for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan, took close to 100 commercial fishermen to NSW Parliament on August 25 to air their views about the NSW Government’s Business Adjustment Program.

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According to Mr Mehan, the forum gave the opportunity for fishers to talk directly to MPs, and for MPs to ask questions.

The meeting was attended by MPs from Labor, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers, Christian Democrats and The Greens political parties.

No MPs from the Liberal or National Parties turned up to listen to the fishers.

“Labor has repeatedly called on the Minister for Primary industries to hit the pause button to allow better information flows and address the concerns

over the availability of shares,” Mr Mehan said.

“The Minister recently made several small changes to the restructure, as well as granting the industry an extra month to consider the package on offer,” he said.

“Labor is concerned that if the restructure process goes wrong, countless small businesses will exit the industry and leave NSW consumers with less locally caught seafood.

“Hearing the stories from commercial fishermen from the Central Coast and across the state about how these

reforms are going to impact the industry was eye opening,” Mr Mehan said.

“This industry is going to be torn apart by these reforms and the Baird/Grant government couldn’t even send a single representative to meet with these people.

“This is another arrogant decision from a government who seem to jump from one issue to another leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.”

Media release, Aug 29, 2016 Peter Duggan, office of David Mehan

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obson Civil Projects has been chosen as the successful tenderer for road and drainage upgrade work and water main relocation construction works at Murrawal Rd and Kilpa Rd, Wyongah.

The works include new kerb and gutter, medians and a raised intersection at Kilpa Rd and Cottam Rd. The objective of the work was to improve safety for road users through the installation of traffic calming devices, as well as to improve the condition of the road and the flow of storm water.

The project was developed in response to ongoing community concerns and representations to council regarding safety in the area and, particularly, speeding.

A concept design was prepared and community notification letters were issued in April and July 2015, with the concept design presented to the community at a public meeting in August 2015.

This was to allow the community to have input into the final designs.

The concept design depicted traffic calming devices to improve the safety of Murrawal and Kilpa Rd and to moderate traffic speed in the area.

Council received a number of comments and concerns from the community relating to the project that were taken into account in the preparation of the final design that was completed in May 2016 for tender in June.

The invitation documents called for lump sum tenders based on a detailed technical specification and approved construction drawings.

A compulsory pretender meeting was held at 11am on Friday, July

8, at the cul-de-sac of Coolabah Rd, Wyongah, to allow tenderers to become familiar with site conditions.

Tenders were received from Delcare Constructions, Robson Civil Projects and Scape Constructions.

The advised completion date for the work is December.

Sufficient funds were allocated in the current year’s program for Capital Local Roads Rehabilitation in the drainage budget and the road budget.

The contract has been assessed as low risk and construction is expected to commence on September 1.

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P11 W 1

News

Aboriginal Land Council unable to assess Wallarah 2 development application arkinjung L o c a l Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) has demanded details on the amended Development Application for the Wallarah 2 coal mine.

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The demand followed myriad unanswered emails and a lack of any detailed response from the Wyong Areas Coal Joint Venture in relation to the development.

Darkinjung LALC has reached out to Wyong Areas Coal Joint Venture, along with the Department of Planning and Environment numerous times, but its requests for sufficient detail to properly consider the impact of the amended DA have remained unanswered.

Mr Sean Gordon, Darkinjung LALC’s Chief Executive Officer, said he was fed up with the blatant lack of cooperation from Wallarah 2.

“We have been sending letters to the Department of Planning since April 16 stating that Wallarah 2 is not allowing DLALC and the broader community access to adequate information to properly assess its proposal,” Mr Gordon said.

“I lodged a complaint with the Department of Planning on August 18, and within hours, I received a request for an urgent meeting from Wallarah 2, but we will meet with them on September 7, after our submission is in the public arena, and they will have a full list of our concerns.

Darkinjung LALC is one of the biggest landholders in the area surrounding the proposed coal mine

“We met with Wallarah 2 in February, but they have not consulted with us at all since.

“The team from Wallarah 2 and the Wyong Areas Coal Joint Venture have refused to provide any further detailed information to Darkinjung on the amended Development Application (DA) for the proposed coal mine at Bushells Ridge,” he said.

The amended Development Application is currently on public exhibition (but not advertised in this newspaper) and is open for responses from the community.

“Darkinjung intends to make a submission in relation to the amended DA, however at this stage there is insufficient detail on the proposed infrastructure in the documents which have been provided,” he said.

“The information currently provided is

FREE

February 16, 2016

Issue 86

March 15, 2016

Mehan outraged at delay in storm damage repair esidents of the Bateau Bay area are still struggling to repair their homes following the violent hail storm that struck the area on September 17 last year.

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Member for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan MP, visited residents of Lancaster Pde who have not yet moved back into their units and have been living in a variety of rental and shared accommodation since the September hail storm.

The storm caused ceilings to collapse and extensive water damage to the properties with most units in Lancaster Gardens being completely gutted due to damage.

Ms Barbara Champley said she had been living in her unit for the past 25 years and had never lodged an insurance claim in her life.

“I do own my unit but I don’t know what I have got now, only an empty shell,” she said.

“I was down at The Entrance that day and someone rang and said you’d better come home.

“When I got to Bateau Bay the hail was like snow.

“When I put the key in the door, there was water pouring through the ceiling, through the light fittings, so I went to get help, but by the time I got back, the whole ceiling fell in, and after that, everyone’s ceilings

had any clothes.

“I want the work to start, there are 14 units in our complex and the whole 14 are affected by this and we want some communication to know what is going on.

I am feeling very down about it all,” she said.

Mr Mehan said he had been working with the local community and the strata company to see works completed and residents moving back March 1, 2016 into their homes.

Mr Mehan threatened to name and shame insurance companies that are not giving the storm damaged area the attention it deserves.

“It has been four months since the September hail storm and locals are still struggling to have their homes repaired,” Mr Mehan said.

“All of the residents of he GardensNSW Lancaster were Branch yet of they the fully insured, u s t r aforl itheir an are stillAwaiting Labor will insurance Party companies soon calling to begin be work on their for homes. nominations houses have to “These preselect a been sitting empty candidate for since the David Mehan MP along with Barbara Champley and Phillip and Patricia Cupples view the damage SeptemberElectorate with major Federal of repairs yet to begin. following management Champley wants to return the mould, but since then, Shortland seemed to do the same,” strata insurance Ms“The Jill Hall’s decision company, according to to her own home as soon nothing has happened.

Ms Champley recalled. companies need to to nominate. as possible, “There is no indication not According to Ms Ms Champley. clearly “It has been an absolute She initially stayed “I’ve lost nearly of when the work will be communicate Champley, the insurer with residents and begin honour and privilege to was “very slow from the with her sister, then in a everything that I owned,” done. fit outs onthe the wonderful houses so motel, then an apartment she said.

“I do have contents represent beginning”. these people get back of canShortland “Before Christmas insurance as well, but people At first the residents at The Entrance, and since their lives.”

Federal Parliament were “stunned” and not Christmas she has been we had a meeting that is with a different into living 1998 as well as with everyone and the company, but it is not since sure who to turn to for staying with a friend.

Media release, many Feb 11, 2016 of The insurance insurance company came much use yet, because I representing help.

David Mehan, member for Parliament Entrance Between September company has helped with out and it all looked very haven’t got anywhere to them in State The as Member forFeb Swansea Interview, 12, 2016 and December they living costs, but at nearly promising, then we had put anything. and in Lake Macquarie Barbara Champley, “I have hardly even mainly dealt with the 80 years of age, Ms workmen cleaning out Bay as a councillor,”Bateau Ms Hall said.

“As the first woman elected to any state or Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford federal lower house Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 seat in the Hunter, I am Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 pleased to see so many E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Labor women now Website: www.centralcoastnews.net representing electorates,” she said.

“The people of Shortland have been my inspiration, and to be their voice in Canberra has been extraordinary.

“I want to put on record my thanks to my husband Lindsay and the rest of my family for supporting me while I took on this amazing job.

“I know they have also made many sacrifices along the way.

“After 18 years as a Federal Member of Parliament, I believe it is the right time to retire and

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

August 2, 2016

Issue 88

EThe club sees the Erezoning EE FRREE FRE as an opportunity

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

to ensure its long-term viability and to give back to the community by investing $14 million.

Wyong Council has also stated it is committed to providing a range of housing types.

“This includes Issue 87 promoting more affordable housing options on sites which are well located in terms of public transport, shops and services,” said Wyong mayor, Cr Doug Eaton OAM. A report to the March 10 council meeting concluded that an assessment of the application considered: the existing strategic framework; potential impacts the proposed with use disability as well as land may have on the the great Labor idea of land; and relevant policy equality ofof council. opportunity, resolutions in “This everything assessment from has education to healthcare. identifi ed that the request party Jill has“Assuffi cient whip, strategic carried out herthe duties with justifi cation,” report to good humour and great council said. patience, striking that Councilbalance between resolved delicate to accept thediscipline report’s maintaining recommendation to prepare and encouraging acamaraderie. planning proposal to amend the Wyong Local Media speculation Environmental about the preselectionPlan of (LEP) and send it started to the Hall’s replacement before she hadofannounced Department Planning her Environment. retirement. and The population Australian “Our is set Electoral Commission’s to grow by 50,000 over the federal next 15 years andboundary we really adjustments do need to deliver ahave lot abolished the Cr seatEaton of more housing,” Hunter, currently held said. by the ALP’s Joel The development Fitzgibbon, shadow proposal to land minister applies for agriculture

Coast’s longest serving State ate or Federal politician to retire ire

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Jill Hall with her extended family on the announcement of her retirement

move on to the next stage of my life.

“I have made this decision in consultation with Lindsay and my family and it will be wonderful to spend more time with them in the beautiful area where we live,” she said.

In addition to her achievements for the Hunter Region, Ms Hall listed the highlights of her career in Federal Parliament as: being part of the Parliament during Kevin Rudd’s historic Apology to the Stolen Generations; securing Federal funding to

expand local GP clinics; and securing funding for a new Headspace service in Lake Haven.

“I will continue to work hard in Parliament and in the electorate right up until the next election, whenever that is called.

“I remain passionate about a number of national and local issues and I will keep fighting for justice and fairness wherever I can.

“There will be a rank and file pre-selection in the Shortland Electorate and local branch members will determine who will be the next Labor party

candidate.

“I am sure the membership will elect an outstanding candidate for the next election.

“Labor can win the next election and Australia will have a government lead by Bill Shorten which will deliver a fair and equitable society where every child can have access to a quality education and where your access to health is determined by your need and not your ability to pay.

“Labor believes in equality of opportunity and protecting the rights

of workers and the living ng standard of pensioners ers and families,” she said.

Parliamentary leader of en the ALP, Mr Bill Shorten said the party offered its er thanks to Jill Hall for her service to the people of nt.

Shortland and parliament. rty “In more than thirty years of service as a or, rehabilitation counsellor, ate a local councillor, a State er MP and the Member as for Shortland, Jill has [strived] every day for nd a fairer, more equal and more inclusive Australia.

“She has been a formidable champion for the rights of Australians

and a key power broker of the party’s NSW right faction.

There have been reports that the ALP has planned to ‘parachute’ Fitzgibbon into either Shortland or that he will be moved into the seat of Charlton and its sitting member, Labor backbencher Pat Conroy, would be moved to Shortland.

Anne Charlton has already been preselected to stand for the ALP in the seat of Robertson and Emma McBride has been preselected for Dobell.

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, Feb 28, 2016 Lisa McDermott, office of Jill Hall Jackie Pearson, journalist

recommendations that directly related to promoting caravans and manufactured homes as affordable housing options.

None of those recommendations was approved when the report was considered by the Economic Employment Development Committee (EEDC) in 2013.

A l t h o u g h recommending that council moved ahead with seeking a gateway determination for the rezoning, it noted that the proposal was April pril 12, 2016 201 016 inconsistent with the North Wyong Shire Structure Plan “as it is proposing residential development on land that has been identified for employment in the long term.

“The timing of the rezoning of the land for employment purposes will be impacted by future coal extraction.

“This has an indeterminate timing but is likely to be longer than 15 years.

The assessment concluded that the site could accommodate a MHE in the short term provided that the land has the potential to be used for future employment purposes … once mining has been completed in the area.

“The proposal does not involve community title subdivision which means that the existing land holding will not be further fragmented.

Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 97

Wallarah 2 coal mine decision now only a few weeks away

Doyalson RSL to develop a 139 site manufactured home estate he DoyalsonWyee RSL is seeking to rezone nearby vacant land so it can develop a 139-site manufactured home estate.

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not include detailed drawings, particularly of the 27 metre high coal loader, that will be only 260 metres away from the proposed Darkinjung residential development and existing Blue Haven homes, where Darkinjung is a significant property owner.

“No consideration has been given to Darkinjung being the largest land owner in the area when they have a conveyor system running parallel to our land and a siding parallel to our land,” Mr Gordon said.

If the amended development application was approved, two parcels of Darkinjung’s industrial land at Bushells Ridge, along with another parcel of land subject to a current land rights claim, would be landlocked on three sides, Mr Gordon said.

“What Wallarah 2 is failing to inform the broader community about

impact is that we will not be able to deliver that affordable housing or home ownership to our members if our residential development is impeded

by Wallarah 2,” he said.

Mr Gordon called upon the NSW Government to consider the negative economic impacts of Wallarah 2, in addition to the obvious environmental and social impacts.

He said the current projects that DLALC has in play in the area could produce the same number of jobs and the same level of economic stimulus for the region with none of the negative environmental, social or health impacts of the Wallarah 2 coal mine.

D a r k i n j u n g Chairperson, Ms Tina West, said: “We have a right to fully understand the impact that this proposed development will have on the community both socially, economically and environmentally.

“Darkinjung’s land surrounding the site will bear the brunt of the impact from the coal mine and therefore we are entitled to make an informed decision on how our land is impacted.

“In order to do this we demand more information from Wallarah 2,” concluded Ms West.

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insufficient to understand how significant coal loading infrastructure can be contained within a 20 metre wide corridor, but also provide continuous and unimpeded access, passing bays, water quality devices and retaining works.

“The Land Council has sent a number of letters and emails over the last month requesting further information on the development to ensure that we are able to consider the material in preparation for a submission.

“With the closing date looming, we are now demanding a response from Wallarah 2.

“How is the general public going to be able to respond to the amended DA when there is a severe lack of information provided by Wallarah 2?”, said Mr Gordon.

Mr Gordon said the information in the amended DA did

is by moving from a rail arm to a conveyor system, they will be building a rail siding that will have 64 carriage movements four times per day,” he said.

According to DLALC, the amended DA for the coal mine does not include an explanation of noise mitigation measures.

They’ve also failed to produce an Asset Protection Plan even though the infrastructure is in a bush fire prone area.

“Wallarah 2 has done an Aboriginal Impact Assessment, but they’ve only assessed the project from a cultural heritage point of view.

“They have not assessed the economic impact on one of the last remaining industrial sites in the area on our residential lots or our existing housing in Blue Haven,” Mr Gordon said.

“If the amended DA is approved, the rail siding will take away any opportunity for us to have rail access from our industrial land and that will have a significant economic impact.

“There has been no consideration of our rezoning applications for 700 residential lots at Wyee.

“The impacts on housing projects at Jilliby were considered, but they didn’t mention the Darkinjung residential development 260 metres away.

“In our residential estates we retain 10 per cent for affordable housing for our members, so the broader social

The Greens NSW no future, that Mike mining spokesperson, Baird should knock on Mr Jeremy Buckingham, the head. has called on NSW “The proposed coal premier, Mr Mike Baird, conveyor belt and to intervene to stop the coal loading area are Wallarah 2 underground unacceptably close to coal mine project. the existing residential “The Coalition made neighbourhood of Blue a solemn promise not to Haven and may impact on allow the Wallarah 2 coal plans by the Darkinjung mine to go ahead,” Mr Local Aboriginal Land Director of the Buckingham said.

Council for residential alliance’s Water Not “Former premier, Mr development in the area.”

Coal campaign, Mr Alan Barry O’Farrell, told Central Coast Council Hayes, said the meeting a crowd that the mine concerns about the effect would be held atIssue Wyong89 Your Y Yo ou our ur independent community c newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369 would not go ahead ‘no on the drinking water August 16, 2016 Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369 Issue 98 RSL on August 10. ifs, no buts, a guarantee’. catchment, environment The Korean mining “Yet years later, and residential areas, will The proposed concept plan for the Doyalson manufactured home estate (left) and it’s location (right) company KORES has the NSW Coalition be central to its review options and increase the directly north of the the long-term intended and site office. lodged an amended Government has failed to of modified plans for the “The proposal will mix of housing types Doyalson-Wyee RSL Club. purpose. development proposal implement this promise,” Wallarah 2 Coal Project.

It is currently zoned In the case of Lot 7, enable Doyalson-Wyee available for the area,” the that includes plans to Mr Buckingham said.

The former Wyong RU6 Transition and would that long-term purpose is RSL Club to better utilise report said. build a conveyor belt and “This coal mine is Shire Council opposed Wyong Council had be rezoned to RE2 Private a development precinct its existing land holdings,” Haven meeting is an ember alter the route of the rail a risk not only to the the mine for in February taken actions to minimise Recreation, which would within the North Wyong the report said. important step, because W ydueo ton the g potential spur to avoid having to water catchment of the 2014 The RAW challenge is the opportunity for caravan permit a Manufactured Shire Structure Plan I am sure that there are and on NSW reach an agreement with The latest plans include a relocated rail r loop (shown in purple) Central Coast, but to the impacts the drinking proposed to be relocated to parks “to become a more Home Estate (MHE).

(NWSSP). many people in Blue the Darkinjung Local other concerns Minister for areas.

Liberal water catchment the main access to the credibility of the Shadow oncerns could be plans.

The site (Lot 49 DP The landowner has the existing playing fields dominant part of the local Haven and other nearby Aboriginal Land Council. addressed.

Party when it the makesCentral The Coast, former Gosford Mr Hayes said the new development. ed. housing offer by limiting 707586 and Lot 7 DP previously investigated (subject to consent). areas that do not know Plans have been Council also DavidCity Harris, will Mr Hayes said that in commitments toMr the proposal Thosee concerns development “The use of the site as the creation of additional 240685) comprises 21.69 development opportunities this thing is going to be on modified relating to the includedd the mine’s would see the conveyor speak at opposed a Waterthe Notproject in 2014, Dr Peter Lewis, electorate. c hectares on the Pacific but “due to future an MHE may be an interim non-tourist caravan parks their doorstep,” she said. rail loop, rail spur line impact on the Central belt transporting coal 200 the clinical director of the March 2014.

“It should fulfiCoal l those meeting to be Hwy at Doyalson. subsurface mining of the use until mining constraints and MHEs in Wyong The Australian Coal and train load out facility. Coast’s water supply, metres from the south- Central Coast integrated commitments andheld reject Council has stated at the Blue Haven Lot 49 currently area for coal, the Mine have been resolved and Shire.”

Alliance has also raised The project has been subsidence it intends to closely boundar of the care program, said the the mine. nce and the health western boundary Community Centre on In 2003, for instance, contains two buildings: one Subsidence Board has this use has been given ‘in concerns about mine modified to realign the effects off coal dust.

“The Korean review the revised plans expected mortality rate Blue Haven residential re August 18, following subsidence, air extraction is leased to an independent objected to each proposal,” principle’ support from the Wyong Council resolved: sewer connection. has with a view to lodging a The Darkinjung Local area and as far north as for coal dust related to the Government his call for the NSW from the proposed mine Mine Subsidence Board, “That Council records its party; the second contains the report explained.

The State Significant Aboriginal submission.

Wallarah 2 mine could be announced a restructure nal Land Council Wyee. and that approval of Government to buyhas also opposition as a matter of amenities.

Options already according to the report.

A view of Turpentine Rd, Kangy Angy under water in January Development was took thee matter to the of its state owned resource Council “Tooheys Rd would one on 100,000. the project could allow Future plans for the policy to the creation or The lot also has considered: residential back the Wallarah 2 “Wyong CBD is five companies that will see encouraged community disappear because that becau dumping of water into cricket nets and remnant subdivision; retirement Doyalson-Wyee RSL will expansion of further nonlicence.to take this from members road does not have hav a wide kilometres from the them withdraw exploration local lakes and/or the vegetation. facility; tourist be centred around health tourist caravan parks or The latest proposal opportunity to have their resource verge on either side and proposed coal handling international ocean.

Lot 7 contains no accommodation; mixed associated uses with manufactured home estates from South Korean voice heard.

KORES doesn’t own any facilities, Blue Haven projects, so it is unclear “The best analogy I mining company KORES regarding buildings and the site tourist and residential the recently constructed within the shire.”

Information land in that area, area so they and Lake Haven are why the government can come up with is that could see a coal conveyor The resolution also of the proposed home accommodation; and a gymnasium. would be wanting the even closer, and there should approve a mine the project is available want it would be the same as belt, rail spur, and coal The club intendeds to sought to limit conversion village is generally clear of motel. conveyor to run along the are schools, hospitals and plan for a company likely from NSW Planning’s a allowing an underground stock pile,major located withinwebsite.

The concept shows the expand the function room. of tourist sites to permanent vegetation and is used for projects carriage way,” Mr M Hayes aged care facilities,” Mr to leave the market. coal mine in the Sydney 200 metres of Blue Haven It also intends to add a accommodation, which manufactured home estate the RAW Challenge.

“There is no need to Hayes said.

Hills District with a coal homes.

Media release, Jul 26, 2016 reduced the number of The site adjoins Delta located within Lot 7 with ‘pop-up’ library.

“The Planning build this coal mine.

The Darkinjung Da loader in the middle Central Coastcoal Council media ot all Kangy Angy residents are opposed The RE2 Private tourist accommodation land to the east (Munmorah a lit pathway linking it to “The community Aarenine-storey Local Aboriginal Aborigina Land Assessment Commission of Castle Hill,” said Mediaalso release, loader would beJul 26, 2016 to the development of an inter-city train Power Station) and a existing playing fields and Recreation permits caravan sites in the shire.

Council already has has rejected four coal bitterly opposed. alread Max Phillips, office of the Australian Coal Media release, Mar 10, 2016 visible from Blue Haven maintenance facility in the area. parks and therefore However, in December hydroponics establishment club facilities.

“The company doesn’t Jeremy Buckingham approval for a 500 lot mines already this year Wyong Council media Alliance’s Water Not An underground shearer that grinds coal from the seam, dumps it on a conveyor and and would come withinJul 29, 2017 to the north.

The concept plan also manufactured home estates 2012, a report on Planning Interview, because of their proximity want to build it, it just residential sub-division sub Agenda item, Mar 10, 2016 TThe he pro proposed sed interci intercity int rci ciiity fleet maintenance site duri during local floods lets the roof of the mine fall down behind it that could cause subsidence and damage to the water aquifer Coal Campaign Director, 300 metres of houses Coal RU6 zoning is a holding included walking and as well as a variety of other Controls to Support 2.1, Wyong Council ordinary One such resident, solution to some of those to residential areas,” he wants an approval to sell. Alan Hayes, Australian that would be impacted i ission Mr Alan Hayes. a catchment promise.

Spokesperson for The “But the commission decision cisionmeeting to sell s land ndd at a Kangy Ka gyy Angy to Transport for NSW that the proposal would Alliance in with the new residential catchment, Housing Affordability zone providing a limited cycling tracks, a games uses.

“It’s a dud mine, Mr Dean Innes spoke problems. because Tooheys Toohey Rd is said.

“When you talk about Pearson, journalist ORES’ that supplies water to “If the Baird Greens Central Coast, even found KORES’ hass been deferred defer eferred edd by Wyong W Wyon Council Co Coouncil for two months month to allow significantly impact on at Wyong Council on suburb to beJackie developed “These housing forms and Choice in Wyong range of uses to ensure room, indoor swimming In responding to by the Darkinjung Local 320,000 people,” he said. government can … use Ms Kate da Costa, who economic argumentt for coal dust, you are talking further representations Transport for NSW endangered ecological March 23 in favour of the questions from Cr Doug resideents too make residents maakee furth furthe er re repres seentations to Transpor se the land remains fit for pool, a manager’s residence offer lower cost housing Shire included nine communities, PCTs blown about fine micro particles He said KORES, the taxpayers’ money in attended the meeting, the mine overblown Aboriginal Land Council. rdding possible alternate alteernate alter nate locations lloccations loca oons for ffooor the facility. regarding proposed sale of council Vincent, a representative that contain threatened ularly (micron) that can’t be Government Caroona, then we have said: “The proposal is and not particularly The amended Korean Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Spokesperson for the Spokesper t e rezoned rezo d to t make mak ake way for wildlife to be railroaded.” species habitat, areas land to Transport for of the Kangy Angy seen by the naked eye d. application owned mining company every right to expect the that the conveyor belt compelling,” she said.

NSW. Residents Action Group, Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321development 0940 Kangy Angy Residents Resident Re nts ts the the rail ra facility. faci faacilit ility. ity. ty.

According to the that contain habitat for The clincher, for Ms da but are carried many and Environmental that holds the mining same here, particularly and stock pile will be Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford “There is a group of Mr Tony Caldersmith Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 Action n Group, Mr Tony y le ess ss s t tha an “No less than four Environment Environmental Issues vulnerable, endangered kilometres by the wind ORES’ exploration licence, is given their previous operating 24 hours and Costa, was that KORES’ Impact Statement are Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 people in the north of the said Transport for NSW E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Caldersmith C aldersmith ld th spoke endangered end endange ndangered ndanger angered flflooodplain Report prepared pr by or critically endangered mental and will get into your suffering election promises. seven days a week for own Environmental currently on public reportedly Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 street who would like to had said it was too early Website: www.centralcoastnews.net against ag gainst instt the th sale of the la nd ecological ecologica communities c mm com munities Conacher land Consulting, threatened species, ement lungs and cause all sorts financial issues, raising “To continue to ignore 30 years, so freight trains Impact Statement exhibition.

E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net see it proceed,” he said. to discuss community at the Wyong y g Council Counc occur within with the he site and December 2015, 20 the Land wildlife habitat linkages Mr Harris said he more doubts about the their solemn commitment will be loading coal from conceded that a coal mine of respiratory problems,” Website: www.centralcoastnews.net meeting oon Wedne Mr Innes said the benefits.

Wednesday it provides Wednesday, p foraggging and and Environment foraging Environ Court and a riparian area and Mr Hayes said. d area viability of the proposed is nothing more than an un-covered conveyor in such a populated called on the NSW would “The railway people March ch 23, 23, describing d it habitat for a range raange of would be likely li to find watercourse of fourth development “The NSW rtality political bastardry.” belt around the clock.” “could increase mortality Baird Government to project. create the opportunity for said it was all too early; as ecologically l i ll sensitive sensitiv it thhr hreatenedd and andd critically c threatened that the site is unsuitable order and an important eople Government wants the “The Wallarah 2 mine An earlier Australian According to Ms da by one in 100,000 people buy back the Wallarah a new land bridge to deal they were not going to flfloodplain oodplain ain land to be sold olld engendered engender ered species for the proposed wetland area. whole northern area of the 2 exploration licence proposal has been a major Coal Alliance meeting Costa, the only part of the per year. with flooding and even a talk about that yet, we too makee wayy for f a ra railw railway rail y includingg yell rai y yellow-bellied development development.

It further states that over Central Coast zoned for election issue since 2011 was held at Wyong RSL development application “There are after the government children’s playground. are not down to that fleet maintenance facility. gliders, squirrel gliders a presents alternative sites for the The site also ng on housing, but if you had a confirmed they would pay at both a state and Federal on August 10 to update that KORES has changed 300,000 people living According to Mr Innes, level of planning,” Mr “There is compelling and the powerful owl. considerable constraints proposal which would the community about the is the mechanism for the Central Coast soo that young family, would you BHP $220 million to buy level. evidence that the site “Also, a tributary in terms of flooding result in a reduced impact Transport for NSW had Caldersmith said.

“It featured heavily latest attempts by KORES getting the coal from the is three deaths per year,” go to coal mine central to Mr Caldersmith also back their mining licence is unsuitable for the of Ourimbah Creek and bushfifire and a on local biodiversity promised a landscaped raise your children?” he she said. buffer to make sure the confirmed that Wyong for the proposed Caroona most recently in the 2016 to have the Wallarah 2 mine to the train. proposed development flowing through the site development of the should be investigated.

She said the According to Ms said. facility was permanently Council had not, at mine in the Liverpool Federal election, when underground coal mine given the flooding and is a known biodiversity type and scale sca proposed munity Labor won the seat of approved by the NSW NSW Government’s da Costa, community hidden. any stage, approached plains. environmental constraints ‘hot-spot’ for rare and would be likely lik to have Media release, Mar 21, 2016 Media release, Aug 12, 2016 Assessment requirement for the members at the August “We’ve also engaged residents about the idea “The Baird /O’Farrell Dobell on a platform Planning of the land… alternative threatened amphibian an unaccep office fice of Zachary Harrison, offi unacceptable and Environmental Issues Report Summary, Dec 2015 our own planner to look of selling the land to sed a Commission as a State Planning Assessment 10 meeting expressed government promised to opposing the mine.

David Harris sites without those species such as the green significant impact on a Michelle Nicholson, at various ways to get Transport for NSW. “Mike Baird was the Significant Development. Commission to “prioritise sense of frustration that Interview, Aug 12, 2016 stop Wallarah 2 in 2011 as constraints are available and golden bell-frog and number of species or their Kangy Angy Residents Kate da Costa, around development The meeting was economic outcomes” they had been fighting the an election commitment,” Shadow Treasurer in and should be taken up,” the green-thighed frog,” habitats.

Action Group Central Coast Greens restrictions in the area 2011, and must have attended by around 180 when assessing Wallarah 2 coal mine for Mr Harris said.

Mr Caldersmith said. he said.

The report found Continued page 3 Interview, Aug 12, 2016 and this development is a 11 years. supported the infamous locals who came from as developments, meant the “The proposed The land would be “We don’t want our Alan Hayes, Australian Coal “This is an important Wallarah 2 project would Liberal ‘No ifs, no buts, far afield as The Entrance mine’s approval was still Alliance a possibility. fight to win, and the Blue Jackie Pearson, journalist be beneath our water a guarantee’ election and Terrigal.

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

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he Australian Coal Alliance is organising a public meeting to inform the northern Central Coast community about the latest developments in their long-running campaign to stop the Wallarah 2 coal mine.

FREE

Land Lan La nd ssale alle for railway al r facility deferred faci fac ffa cililiittty defe

REE RE FRE FR

Wallarah 2 seen as a threat on many ny levels

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Kangy Angy land sale supported by some

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Media release, Aug 19, 2016 Ashleigh Milne, Brilliant Logic Interview, Aug 26, 2016 Sean Gordon, Darkinjung LALC Jackie Pearson, journalist

News

P12 P1 12 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Train maintenance facility to have over 200 employees ransport for NSW will determine, in September, whether to build a maintenance facility at Kangy Angy for its new inter-city train fleet.

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It is currently considering submissions on the proposal and preparing a report.

According to Transport for NSW’s own documentation on the proposed facility, if the project goes ahead, a 33-month construction program would commence in early 2017, for the facility to be complete and operational in 2019.

State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (the Infrastructure SEPP) applies, and Clause 79 permits development on any land for the purpose of a railway, or rail infrastructure, to be carried out by, or on behalf of, a public authority without consent, so development consent from Central Coast Council was not required.

The development is subject to Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

A Review of Environment Factors (REF) has been completed under Part 5 of that Act and Transport for NSW was both the proponent and the determining authority for the REF. The proposed project involves clearing around 37 hectares of native vegetation including habitat for threatened species.

P r e l i m i n a r y investigations identified significant impacts to biodiversity, particularly on the Endangered Ecological Community Melaleuca Biconvexa, Swamp Mahogany, Cabbage Palm Forest, listed under the Threatened

A typical wheel lathe facility at Auburn

Species Conservation Act of 1995.

Due to those findings, the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage issued Chief Executive Requirements for the preparation of a Species Impact Statement (SIS) and became a concurrent determining authority, along with TfNSW, for the SIS. A referral was also made to the Commonwealth Minister for Environment due to the potential for significant impacts on Biconvex Melaleuca, which is also listed as a vulnerable species in the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

The project will involve the direct removal of almost 4,000 Biconvex Melaleuca.

The development will also have potential impact on around 33 hectares of groundwater dependent ecosystems due to changes in hydrology.

Five threatened fauna species were also recorded during the REF: Varied Sittella; Little Bentwingbat; Eastern Bentwing Bat; Southern Myotis and

Grey-headed Flying Fox. An Environmental Impact Assessment was not required because: “With the implementation of suitable management and mitigation measures, the remaining impacts associated with the project are not anticipated to be substantial”.

Mitigation measures identified in the REF included: the investigation of opportunities during detailed design to reduce native vegetation clearing; an experienced fauna ecologist to implement pre-clearing and clearing protocols; and, implementation of flora and fauna control measures.

Other impacts identified in the REF related to: noise and vibration exceedances; landscape and visual; traffic and transport; hydrology and flooding; Aboriginal heritage; and, socio-economic.

In terms of flooding, the REF states potential impacts would relate to the one in 100 (year) flood event level.

It also identified water quality impacts from spills or sediment runoff from construction,

operation and erosion, and sedimentation impacts, including potential changes to stream flow impacts to fauna, and water contamination due to land clearing during construction.

“A detailed flood impact assessment on the site would be undertaken to provide greater certainty regarding the impact of the project on the regional flood and local drainage processes as part of the detailed design process,” the REF said.

“All project elements would be required to be designed above the one in 100 flood event.

“A hydrologic and hydraulic assessment would be undertaken to confirm that additional structures within the project area would not have substantial adverse effects upon existing drainage,” it said.

“Water quality impacts would generally be managed in accordance with an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan for the project.”

According to Transport for NSW, the new facility will be designed to hold four trains, each of up to

205 metres in length.

If required, the design will provide the ability to expand to five trains in the future.

However, in its own REF, Transport for NSW acknowledged that it has spare capacity to look after around 780 cars at its existing maintenance facilities, including spare capacity at Hornsby, when it only plans to have 500 new intercity carriages built, and will be retiring the oldest electric sets on the network.

TfNSW has stated that new jobs will be created during the construction phase of the project.

“Flow-on economic benefits are expected for the local community during the operation of the facility.

“Apprenticeships and strategies on how to support local small to medium enterprises and social not-for-profit enterprises will be put in place.”

Information provided to the public from TfNSW has indicated that the maintenance facility will include: a maintenance building including a stores area for carrying out general maintenance and to hold the necessary spare parts to maintain the new trains; offices and amenities to house maintenance and office staff, including staff parking areas; a wheel lathe building to maintain the train wheel sets; train decanting and cleaning facilities; an automated train wash building to wash trains; a yard area with tracks to allow for the efficient movement of trains within the site for maintenance activities; and, power supply equipment for the facility.

Associated project elements to support the new maintenance facility include the construction of three track bridge structures for train entry/

exit from the main line and a new bridge over the railway to provide road access to the facility.

“The bridge will connect Enterprise Dve to Orchard Rd and offer an alternative access for local residents in times of flood,” TfNSW has stated.

Upgrades are planned to the Enterprise Dve and Catamaran Rd intersection and TfNSW will also need to revise access to Chittaway Rd from Enterprise Dve. The installation of high voltage power, stormwater detention, sewer, water and fire services infrastructure will also be required.

The existing Ausgrid 33 kilovolt feeder line currently running through the site will need to be relocated along with some existing RailCorp 11 kilovolt and 66 kilovolt feeders.

Approximately 200 to 300 construction staff would typically be required on site during construction, with 200 on a typical working day and up to 300 during peak times and rail close down periods.

Plant required for construction will include: Cranes for seven out of nine phases of the project; front end loaders for seven phases; trucks for four; a concrete truck for seven; pumps for five; dozers for four; excavators for nine; compressors for seven; vibratory rollers and compactors for eight; and semi trailers for six.

The proposed facility would have up to approximately 200 employees over a 24 hour period once operational, with potentially another 10 office staff.

Website, Aug 24-26, 2016 Transport.nsw.gov.gov/ projects-intercity-fleet/ maintenance-facility Report of Environmental Factors Jackie Pearson, journalist

News Jobs for the Future Report outlines government’s plans to create jobs August 30, 2016 - P133

arliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, has announced on August 19 that regional NSW, including the Central Coast, would be a key focus for jobs growth, under a plan to create an additional one million new jobs over the next 20 years.

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Mr MacDonald said Premier, Mr Mike Baird, released the Jobs for the Future Report outlining how NSW can harness opportunities and respond to challenges to create one million new, rewarding jobs by 2036.

“NSW leads the nation when it comes to job creation, but we know the world is changing and we must keep adapting with it,” Mr MacDonald said.

“While it is pleasing that regional NSW currently leads all other regional areas across Australia when it comes to job creation, there is no question that workplaces are rapidly changing and will continue to do so over coming decades.

“This strong focus on jobs growth is great news for the Central Coast,” he continued.

Mr MacDonald said

the release of Jobs for the Future had been supported by the announcement that a $30 million funding program will be established to specifically grow jobs in regional NSW. Other state-wide funding programs will: Help fast-growing, small-to-medium size companies, known as gazelles, to access the funds they need to grow jobs through a $50 million loan guarantee program and a $3.5 million direct loan pilot program; assist start-up companies to flourish into the gazelles of tomorrow by setting aside $10 million to grow the State’s network of incubators and accelerators; $3 million in 2016-17 for direct grants to startups; and attract large and international companies

to base their headquarters in NSW through use of a $30 million fund.

Minister for Regional Development, Mr John Barilaro, said the announcement was an important part of the Government’s ongoing support for regional NSW. “This includes $6 billion for regional infrastructure from the Rebuilding NSW plan, along with $39 million to fix mobile black spots and $110 million to boost regional tourism.

“The Jobs for NSW Fund will now provide an additional opportunity to help deliver our number one priority to grow jobs in NSW, including regional NSW,” Mr Barilaro concluded.

Media release, Aug 19, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, Office of Scot MacDonald

Former airport site land not expected to be sold at a loss

Other Regional News - In brief Wyong Regional Chronicle focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262, & 2263.

Given the arrival of new Central Coast Council, following is a summary of news articles published in the

e Frkeeone!

Ta

Edition 400

22 August 2016

Peninsula News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2256 & 2257.

Peninsula fuel prices comparable with Coast

Residents gather for action on roads

Chamber calls for Ocean Beach masterplan

A survey of fuel prices has shown Peninsula prices are comparable with the rest of the Coast.

More than 70 residents from Empire Bay and Bensville attended the inaugural meeting of the Empire Bay and Districts Roads Action Group to participate in a Future Directions Workshop

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has renewed calls for the preparation of a Foreshore Masterplan for the beachfront between Ocean Beach and Umina Beach surf clubs, similar to the Ettalong

Administrator calls for urgent Brisbane Ave report

Vets hold memorial service

Local anglers support research program

A report on the former Gosford Council’s land sale strategy is to be prepared as a matter of urgency and placed on the agenda for the Central Coast Council meeting scheduled for Gosford on September 28

The Vietnam Veterans Peacekeepers and Peacemakers Association of Australia’s Central Coast Sub-Branch held a memorial service to mark the 50th anniversary of the Battle

Anglers on the Peninsula could be some of the first fishermen in the state to record their recreational catch data for the Department of Primary Industries.

Property prices could increase with tunnel -

Peninsula excluded from disability inclusion talks

Cake stalls and community talks

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has stated that the NorthConnex road tunnel will be a “game changer” in providing access to the Woy Woy Peninsula from the Sydney CBD and Western

Expressions of Interest to be part of a Disability Inclusion Reference Group will close on August 25.

The Killcare-Wagstaffe Rural Fire Brigade has had a busy month with its regular cake stall and Fire in the Home community talks.

The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.CentralCoastNews.net They can also be seen on www.PeninsulaNews.info

iar Ridge land, which is the former regional airport site, is expected to be sold for a profit, according to the Central Coast Council.

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Council has confirmed that the land for sale, which the former Wyong Council resolved “at an open council meeting in November 2015” to sell, is the former regional airport site.

In a written statement, Central Coast council said it expected to recoup the price it paid for the land in 2014.

“As the value of industrial land has

increased over the last few years, … we are confident of finding a suitable buyer due to an increased demand for development land on the Central Coast,” the statement said.

“It is a prime piece of industrial land in a prime spot close to Newcastle, Sydney and right next to the M1 motorway,” it said.

“Our agent says there

has already been strong interest due to its prime location.

“The land already has a Part 3A approval for an industrial subdivision of 69 lots and the Expression of Interest will explore with suitable parties options for kick-starting development of the site.

Media statement, Jul 28, 2016 Central Coast Council media

www.CentralCoastNews.net Copies of these other publications may be obtained from our offices in Gosford, by subscription, or from a myriad of locations in the areas covered by each publication.

most recent edition of each of our sister Central Coast publications.

The full articles and more, as well as all previously published editions, can be seen on line on our website

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FRE

August 25, 2016

Your independent local newspaper

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Ph: 4325 7369

Issue 140

Coast Community News focuses on news specifically relating to post code areas 2250, 2251 & 2260

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis with no plan in place

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis, with uncertainty, confusion and congestion surrounding the city’s major car parks.

New council Community License Agreement results in Saratoga tennis courts being abandoned

The first community organisation to be offered a new council Community Licence Agreement, Saratoga and District Sport and Recreation Association, has labelled the document

Senator calls for Royal Commission into the banks

DOMA and Council summonsed over JRPP approval of ATO

Senator Deborah O’Neill has joined what she has called a “groundswell of Parliamentary colleagues” in calling for a Royal Commission into the banks, after research by the

The Gosford Waterfront Alliance Inc (GWA) has formally lodged a challenge in the NSW Land and Environment Court to the development consent for Doma to build an Australian

Merindah Apartment All community facilities to building come under new community could be the first to start licence agreements A new policy will be put in place to manage all Central Coast Council community facilities, but there is no timeframe for that policy’s development or implementation at this stage.

The $72.16 million Merindah Apartment building, at 21 to 23 Mann St Gosford, is the development we have chosen to profile in this edition of Coast Community News as part of our ongoing series on

100th day of operation Long term hall management Mysteriously controversial creek naming has shows projects completed group unsuccessful in bid to chequered history continue but nothing new in place August 20, marked the 100th In response to an article day of operation of Central published on page 12 of Coast Community News on Coast Council.

August 11, Central Coast Council advised that they had called for expressions of interest to manage the

It has taken Central Coast Council seven months, instead of the usual one month, to agree to refer a request to name a previously unnamed creek at Central Mangrove, to the

The full articles and more can be seen on line on our website www.centralcoastnews.net Coast Community News focusses on news specifically related to post code areas 2250, 2251, 2260 and articles can also be read and shared on your mobile phone by going to www.coastcommunitynews.com.au.

News

P14 P1 14 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Bill to ban greyhound racing passes through lower house arliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, has condemned Labor MP for Wyong, Mr David Harris, and Labor MP for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan, for voting against legislation to ban greyhound racing in NSW, calling it a “vote to extend animal cruelty.”

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The bill to ban greyhound racing in NSW from July 1, 2017, passed 48 votes to 35 despite a push back from Labor and a number of National Party MPs crossing the floor.

The vote was taken after a marathon session in Parliament that concluded at 4:15am.

“In his speech, Mr Mehan stated ‘there is much more we can do to improve animal welfare in this state.’

“If Mr Mehan is truly concerned about animal welfare in NSW, why did he not vote for this legislation?” Mr MacDonald said.

Mr MacDonald also said that Mr Harris had said he would never condone cruelty to animals.

“By voting against this legislation, Mr Harris has condoned and voted to extend cruelty to animals.

“This includes the death and injury of thousands of dogs each year and the use of live animals as bait in training.

“The community has no tolerance for

politicians who say one thing to their community but do the opposite when given a chance to do something about it in Parliament.

“Mr Harris and Mr Mehan could have stood up for their beliefs and helped end animal cruelty in the greyhound industry but instead they voted to continue it,” Mr MacDonald said.

Echoing the sentiments of NSW Premier, Mr Mike Baird, Mr MacDonald said it was not an easy decision to close the greyhound industry, but it was the right one, given the overwhelming evidence of systemic animal cruelty presented by the Special Commission of Inquiry into Greyhound Racing in NSW. The Commission concluded that there is widespread support for the practice and that Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) knew about the practice and did nothing about it.

The inquiry also found that of the 97,783 greyhounds bred in the last

12 years, between 48,891 and 68,448 dogs were killed because they were deemed uncompetitive as racing dogs, equating to a “wastage” rate of 50 to 70 per cent.

The Government’s focus is now getting the necessary support for those affected in communities, especially in regional NSW. “We’re committed to leaving no-one behind in the transition to an orderly and humane industry closure and will announce details of the package, which will include financial assistance, in coming months,” Mr MacDonald said.

Member for Wyong, Mr Harris MP has said Labor wanted to give the industry another two years under strict supervision to reform their practices.

“In no way do we condone any of the appalling practices that have been exposed but, according to the NSW Government’s own report, only 10 to 20 per cent of operators were

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responsible for those practices; 80 per cent of participants in the industry were doing the right thing,” Mr Harris said.

According to the inquiry, evidence of live baiting extended as far back as 2009, and around 10 to 20 per cent of trainers were engaged in the practice.

“The NSW Government has outlawed an industry overnight and not told anyone how it will be compensated,” Mr Harris said.

And according to Mr Harris, the Central Coast would feel the after effects of the industry’s collapse.

“The Greyhound Breeders Owners and Trainers Association (GBTOA) have told us that the cost of all this to the Central Coast will be $79 million per annum,” Mr Harris said.

Mr Harris said the decision of three National Members of the NSW Parliament to cross the floor and vote against their own government’s bill, while another two abstained from voting, was because they were aware of the consequences of the ban on regional communities.

“It isn’t just the owners

and breeders, it is all the other suppliers, pet food suppliers, vets and so on,” he said.

Mr Harris also questioned the impact the passing of the bill would have on the Gosford Showground which is heavily funded through Greyhound racing and believes many dogs will be put down because of the bill.

“Even the veterinarians are calling the bill an evil created to fix an evil,” Mr Harris said.

Mr Harris also argued that the decision to ban one industry was a missed opportunity to tackle wider issues of animal cruelty.

Mr Harris even called out the Coast’s own issues with the pet industry and insisted that there were facilities here on the Coast that have traditionally euthanased far more dogs and cats each year than the greyhound industry.

NSW Natural Resources Commissioner, Dr John Keniry AM, has been appointed coordinator general of the Greyhounds Transition Taskforce that will guide the industry to a humane and orderly closure.

“The NSW Government is determined to put a stop to

the systemic mistreatment of greyhounds in NSW,” Mr MacDonald said.

“But we are well aware this brings challenges for the industry and communities across the state,” he said.

“That is why the NSW Government has committed to investing every cent it receives from greyhound betting between now and July 1, 2017, to funding the industry’s transition.

“The proceeds from betting through the NSW TAB on interstate greyhound races will also contribute to feeding and caring for ex-racing dogs.

“The NSW Government is committed to an orderly and humane closure of the industry and providing support for all greyhound owners who have done the right thing,” Mr MacDonald said.

Media release, Jul 14, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald Media release, Aug 24, 2016 Mitchell Cutting, office of Scot MacDonald Interview, Aug 24, 2016 David Harris, Labor MP for Wyong Factsheet, Jul 7, 2016 Special Commission of Inquiry into the Greyhound Racing Industry in NSW Jasmine Gearie, journalist

Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P15 W 5

Grants approved for twenty one organisations

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entral Coast Council has provided 21 northern organisations with $30,000 in funding in the latest round of Community Subsidy and Neighbourhood Activation Program grants. ($1 110); and the Central Coast Mountain Bike Club ($1 722) Gwandalan Earth Care Group will be able to purchase cultivator forks and a lawnmower with the $497 it received The Uniting Church of Australia Tuggerah Lakes South Parish received $1 935 for its New Connections Project Toukley and Districts Art Society will use its $2 000 grant towards art and craft lessons for teenagers The Shoebox Revolution will receive $1 973 for a Family Fun Day subject to the applicant working with council staff to finalise its concept prior to funds being released The Mannering Park Precinct Committee Inc has been given $416 as a contribution towards operating costs for hall hire and printing Volunteering Central Coast will use its $1 912 grant to assist in the commencement of an outreach centre in Lake Munmorah Applications from 11 other organisations were declined for being ineligible not meeting the objectives of the program or requiring further concept development

empoweringcommunities to take control of their own destiny and be proud of their local area ” he said “It is fantastic that council can provide these grants to help make that happen Eighteen grassroots programs shared a total of $28 073 in funding from the 201516 Neighbourhood Activation Program including: $2 000 to San Remo Tidy Towns for a graffiti removal group; $1 532 to Suzanne Bridge to start a drop-in centre at Gwandalan; and $2 000 to the Catholic Parish of St Cecilia’s Wyong for a luncheon for the homeless The Probus Club of Lake Munmorah received $1 505 to purchase equipment to assist deliver programs with a community benefit Toukley and District Senior Citizens received $1 986 also to purchase equipment to deliver programs with a community benefit and National Seniors Australia Central Coast Wyong received $1 619 for the same purpose Other groups receiving funding to purchase equipment were: The Entrance Camera Club ($520); Yarramalong Valley Community Inc ($1 988); Lakes Concert Band ($1 998); Permaculture Central Coast Inc ($1 360); Food Integrity Group Coop

The Toukley Branch of the Country Women’s Association Wyong Family History Group and Toukley Art Society have received funding under the Community Subsidy Program Toukley CWA received $774 as a rates subsidy for 2015-16 The Wyong Family History Group received $1 627 for the hire of a council-owned property and the Toukley and Districts Art Society received $725 for hire of a council-owned property An application from the Central Coast Mariners Foundation for the hire of athletics ovals was declined because it did not meet the objectives of the program In April the former Wyong Council launched the new Neighbourhood Activation Program to benefit grassroots groups that may not have qualified for other grant programs Central Coast Council Administrator Mr Ian Reynolds said council received a positive response and a large number of applications for the program targeted at local neighbourhood projects undertaken by one street or a small volunteer group “This was about finding projects that bring neighbours together to make a real difference in their local area ” Mr Reynolds said “It was about

Med a re ease Aug 10 2016 Ian Reyno ds Cen ra Coas Counc Agenda em 2 1 Aug 10 2016 Cen ra Coas Counc ord nary mee ng

News

Mannering Park man arrested 54 year old man has been charged with allegedly producing child abuse material after being arrested by police in his home in Marmion St, Mannering Park on Wednesday, August 17.

A

At about 11:30am, officers attended the home and a search was conducted at the premises with police allegedly seizing electronic storage devices, mobile phones, unregistered firearms and ammunition.

All items seized will undergo further forensic examination.

The man was taken to Wyong Police Station where he was charged with producing child

Anyone with information about these incidents should call Crime Stoppers on

1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: http://www1.police.nsw.gov.au/ Information provided will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

abuse material, filming a person in a private

act without consent aggravated, possession of three unregistered firearms, not keeping firearm stored safely, possession of ammunition without holding licence/ permit, handling explosive/precursor without authorising.

He was refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on August 18.

Media release, Aug 18, 2016 NSW Police Media

Free Tax Help service in Bateau Bay ith tax time well underway, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has opened its Tax Help service in Bateau Bay.

W

A s s i s t a n t Commissioner, Mr Graham Whyte, said that about 300 volunteers from 240 community centres across New South Wales will be supporting people who need assistance completing their tax returns this year.

“We know that for

many Australians, doing their own tax return can be a bit difficult, that’s why we have Tax Help,” Mr Whyte said.

“Tax Help is a free and confidential service provided by ATO-trained and accredited local volunteers.

“Tax Help volunteers can help you complete a simple tax return online with myTax, claim a refund of franking credits, or notify the ATO if you don’t need to lodge a tax return at all,” he said.

Mr Whyte said the

Tax Help service was available to people earning around $50,000 or less each year, with straightforward tax affairs.

“There are several criteria that you need to meet to be eligible for Tax Help.

“These include not having worked as a contractor, run a business, or sold shares,” he said.

A full list of criteria is available on the ATO website.

Media re ease Aug 25 2016 Aus ra an Tax O fice

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June 2, 2016

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June 30, 2016

Issue 134

Your independent local newspaper

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$100,000,000 $90,000,000

and Sydney and building new road from M1 to Woy Woy Langford Dve-Woy Woy Rd intersection

$1,100,00 00

$-

Footpaths

$2,500,00 00

$-

$500,000

$50,000,000

$40,000,000

Your independent local newspaper

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$20,000,000

“This gross mismanagement continues to this day.

“Everyone except the community up here has turned a blind eye,” he said.

“It beggars belief that an environmentally unsafe waste landfill of this size could be permitted to continue operating,” Dr Goodwin said.

“The EPA and the minister for the environment might like to say otherwise, but they have no data to back up their assertions of no harm.

“Occasional selective water sampling is not proof of no impact.

“Everyone knows leachate entering the drinking water is a health issue.

“Would you knowingly drink the stuff?” he said.

“Worse, despite being warned, the NSW premier, continues to ignore the call to shut it down, clean it up and repatriate the site, and hold a commission

of inquiry into what went wrong,” he said.

The public meeting at the Central Coast Leagues Club on Thursday, June 16 from 7:00pm aims to alert Gosford and Wyong residents to the risks and what needs to be done about it, Dr Goodwin said.

“The appointment of new Central Coast Council administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, gives the community an opportunity to provide a detailed briefing of the facts and to seek action and support for appropriate measures,” Dr Goodwin said.

“Mountain Districts Association will be seeking a meeting with Mr Reynolds at the earliest opportunity.

“He has also been invited to the public meeting.

“This will give him a firsthand opportunity to hear the facts and the community’s opposition to the dump.

“There needs to be a Commission of Inquiry into

According to Dr uncovered legal grounds Goodwin, despite EPA initial for a new DA process in its assertions that it did, the he investigations.Joint mountain of waste does not R e “The g ilaw o isn the a llaw and this cannot be ignored,” Dr have an impervious lining Planning Panel underneath it capable(JRPP) of Goodwin said. its deferred capturing all of the toxic also wants decisionThe on group whether leachate flowing from it and questions answered or not to approve the diverting it into a holding about whether former development of the pond for proper treatment Gosford councillors were Australian Taxation and disposal. fully advised of critical Officeinformation building on part to the “Most of the leachate relating the landfi former is going straight down of into ll. Gosford Public School site. councillors the groundwater aquifers “As a result, The may JRPP,not including its in a and into the catchment for have been two new delegates the a fully the Ourimbah Creek system position to for make Central Coast Council, that supplies drinking water informed decision on how Mr Bob Ward and Mr Ken to Central Coast residents. council might proceed in Greenwald, held its public “On top of this, even if dealing with this matter meeting in the former the period when the waste mound was lined, Gosfordduring Council’s chambers the current leachate pond council was in theon Land and in Mann St Gosford of 100,000 litres is Thursday, only Environment Court with the June 9. three per cent of the correct Landfi ll Operators.

Eleven people addressed design capacity for a pile theofpanel, “This most to would express appear waste this size. to contravene their opposition to the the former “And it will get far worse.

Gosford Council’s code development.

“A six million litre conduct and is a major Mr ofDavid Abrahams, former chair of concern Regional leachate pond is planned to public that Development Australia be sited on the golf course. demands investigation.”

Central Coast, said: “Themeeting “How will this huge The community in commence this room atare 7:00pm. volume of toxic liquidpeople be will Gosford’s champions, continually accessed, The Doma design for the ATO building right of the historic Arts School be release, Media emptied and treated?”they Dr are no rabble to building looking from the corner of Mann St and Georgiana Tce dismissed.”

May 30,that 2016the building was to be Goodwin said. e “This building will not link location in the Gosford CBD spoke as a representative He said hundredsGoodwin, Stephen located at the “front door the CBD to the waterfront would have had the same of the Gosford Waterfrontt Dr Goodwin said he Mountain of residents had beenDistricts of Gosford and the Central … it will create an area of impact on employment to Alliance Inc. believed the Mountain Association involved in two processes As an architect, Ms Terazz Coast. isolated and lonely street the area.

Districts Association had

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to articulate a vision for the waterfront (Our City Our Future) “and I think we

“What is located on that site has clearly got to

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford “This is a loss of crown land by Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 stealth to private ownership” E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net W b it t l t nailedt it”.

According to Mr Abrahams, the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation then chose to set aside the documents that articulated that vision and focused on selling the land of the former Gosford Public School on behalf of the state government.

He said Gosford Council’s executive had also set aside the documents that articulated the community’s shared vision for the waterfront.

Mr Jack Lloyd of Umina said his concerns were

be a building that gives something to the character of the city and has to be incorporated into the planning of the city,” Mr Lloyd said.

Mr Lloyd also questioned whether the allocated 106 car spaces were enough.

“The 106 car spaces is nothing like the provision allowed in other cities for mixed developments, it is way short of the parking provision that is normally made.

Ms Joy Cooper called the proposed development an “ugly box of building.

frontage.”

She said the building could be reduced in floor space to comply with parking requirements.

Another speaker, Ms Power, said that as a resident of Gosford, she was interested in its future and had read as widely as she could.

“All documents for the school removal clearly show the site as intended for a cultural and performing arts precinct,” she said.

This is a loss of crown land by stealth to private ownership.

“In reality this site is iconic and a local significant site at the very least,” she said.

Mr Kevin Armstrong, representing Crown Land Our Land, Gosford, said an ATO building on any other

He called the proposed extension of Baker St: “Something that is not at all certain at this current time”.

Mr Armstrong said ownership of the site remained “somewhat in doubt”.

e outlined areas where the development application did d not meet the requirementss of the Development Control ol Plan and considerationss of the risk ground waterr could pose to the building’ss basement and structure.

“How did the site undergo the process of going from being a state significant site to having no master plan at all?”

“The best information I can find is that it was dedicated and supposedly removed in the 1970s using the Just Terms in Compensation Act that didn’t come into place until 1990s,” he said.

Ms Angelique Teraz

She questioned how the e development’s disruption n to ground water would be e managed and its impact on n surrounding properties.

“How did the site undergo the process of going from being a state significant site to having no master plan at

$-

$560,000

New Local Environment Plan

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$2,500,000

Central Coast Roads

$60,000,0 000^ $18,850,000

Banjo's Skatepark Wamberal

$500,000

$500,000

Central Coast Medical School and Medical Research Institute

$32,500,0 000

$32,500,000

Total commitment

$87,100,0 000

$54,910,000

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all?” she asked.

She said Gosford Waterfront Alliance Inc. called for “an entire analysis to retain delivery of an active mixed use precinct, to promote the waterfront and Gosford as a destination

Robertso R on n seatt of Robertson pa k at her local park n Sprin field on n in Springfi dnesday, nesday July nesday, J Wednesday, 6.

Performing Arts Centre funding no longer in state budget

that he would include 2016-17 NSWaBudget has invested in health facilities, schools, regionaltransport performing and arts roads to ensure the Central Coast remains a great centre, regional park and place to live and work, according to parliamentary secretary for public wharf facilities.” theA Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald. barrister, Mr Matthew

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Mr MacDonald said Fraser, who principally the Central Coast was a practiced in the NSW Land growing region andCourt, the and Environment NSW Government spoke against the DAwas on committed it the basis to thatensuring it underreceived developeditsthefair site.share of quality and I “Whatinfrastructure struck me, when services to supportreport, its read the assessment growth. was that there was 24 Key ofhighlights from undeveloped metres air the 2016-17 NSWsaid.

Budget space,” Mr Fraser included: He said $118.1 that air million space to continue Gosford could be usedthe for additional Hospital redevelopment development or to makeand up $15 million to shortfall. commence the car parking theAccording Gosford Hospital Car to Mr Fraser, Park; completion of one of and, the objectives of the the upgrade to Point Clare current B4 mixed use zoning Public School, with $7 for the site was to enliven million allocated. the Gosford waterfront.

“I suggest to the panel that that objective is not met by this development, throwing away air space when this site has uninterrupted views of waterfront.

“I suggest it would be of great diffificulty for you to conclude this development was in line with the objectives of the zone.”

Mr Fraser said extending overflflow Baker St for overflow parking was not in the public’s interest.

“It does not behove a public department, in endorsing a proposal by a private developer, to endorse non-compliance, when you could have compliance so easily by better design of the development,” he said.

“This budget demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to delivering the best patient care on the Central Coast, with a huge $133 million towards the $348 million redevelopment of Gosford Hospital – the biggest budget investment in regional health infrastructure across the State,” said member for Terrigal, Mr Adam Crouch.

Other infrastructure projects funded in the 2016-17 Budget include: $5.9 million for local road upgrades and improvements; $1.5 million

to continue planning the upgrade of the intersection of Empire Bay Dve and Scenic Rd and Cochrane St, Kincumber; $500,000 to plan a future upgrade to Terrigal Dve between Chetwynd Rd and Duffy’s Rd; $400,000 design of traffic lights on Terrigal Dve and Tarragal Glen Ave, Erina (current roundabout at Erina Fair/McDonalds), to improve local connections and support active transport; and, $500,000 drainage upgrade on Central Coast Hwy at Wamberal.

However, according to the shadow minister for the

The Robertson vo vote proved to be e a close los rrace, race “There not a margin single with ith aisssmall gincent o of 2093 for votes Hunter TAFEthe Central incumbent, otes tes putting incumbent incu Coast Ms campuses Wicks, icks, ahead ahein this of the he year’s budget,” Labor Party’s candidate, arty’s Mr candid candHarris Ms said.Anne Charlton. harlton rlt “TheMsBaird Government Wicks ks won 51.18 per has broken 2015 election centt ofitsthe two-candidate two-ca twowo promise ofed$12 million preferred vote, whichin was wa funding for theofdevelopment a swing 1.91 per cent wing ce t of the Gosford Regional against compared gainst her when c Performing Centre,” with 2013 result. ith theArts re lt Mr Harris said.

The Labor bor Part Party’s Ms Charlton won on 48.82 per Media Jun 21, cent cent of release, the two-candidate two-candidat two-candi 2016 preferred ed vvote. vot Mitchell Cutting, office of The Greens candidate, cand Scot Macdonald MsMedia Hillaryrelease, MorrissJun w won21,8 per cent of tthe first st preference prefere 2016 ce count electorate, nttKerryanne for the Delaney, electo electorate elect which hich h Electorate was a 2.4Offi per c nt cercent swing to theJun Greens Gre Green Media release, 22, 2016 compared mpared with ttheir resu result David in n 2013.

0 3. Harris, shadow ministerIndependent, for the Central Coast ndependent, dependent, Dr Van Va Van Davy, who ran on a “clean “clean labour” bour” ticket won 2.81 per p cent ent of tthe first preference preferen ence count unt in his first attempt at Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford winning ng the seat. sea He was followed follow

by Mr Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Robertt Stoddart of the Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 Democratic Party hristian Dem E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Christian (Fred Nile Group) on 2.66 2.6 66 Website: www.centralcoastnews.net perr cent. cent c

Central Coast, Mr David Harris, crucial projects on the Central Coast have been ignored in the NSW Government’s latest budget.

Mr Harris and member for Gosford, Ms Kathy Smith, have criticised the budget’s lack of funding for key Central Coast infrastructure.

“Mike Baird has shown the Central Coast is not a priority for his government by failing to fund upgrades to local schools, TAFEs and train stations,” Mr Harris said.

According to Mr Harris: “The NSW Government continues to over promise and under deliver when it comes to providing for the families on the Central Coast, despite the rivers of stamp duty gold flowing into

treasury coffers from the property boom.

“The Budget fails to address elective surgery waiting lists or cut waiting times in Central Coast emergency departments,” Mr Harris said.

“In the January to March 2016 quarterly reporting period, 830 patients waited longer than seven and a half hours in the Gosford Hospital emergency department.

“There was no mention of funding for the most rundown schools on the Coast including: Kincumber High School with a maintenance backlog of $1.38 million; Erina High with $1.35 million; and Henry Kendall High with $1.11 million.

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Website, Jun 14, 2016 Joint Regional Planning Panel meetings Meeting notes, Jun 9, 2016 Joint Regional Planning Panel meeting Jackie Pearson, journalist

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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Issue 138

August 25, 2016

Dutton’s Tavern redevelopment update

Mr Primrose was ose said he had back to the premier.”

Mr Primrose responding to questions made formal said the al requests to the Mr Primrose sa ommissioner and NSW Government and about how residents could Electoral Commissioner ensure the Central Coast the premier,, Mr Mike Baird, Central Coast Counc Council could e Government also provide the com Council administrator, under the community Mr Ian Reynolds, could Information Public Access with more informatio information about be accountable to the Act 2009 ((GIPA)) asking the cost of the council ow reasons ns why merger. community for issues them to show ns for merged ged “We know from tthe past such as building a regional the elections n’t be held until the costs and outcomes outco performing arts centre councils can’t of Issuein137 previous mergers, so the and regional library September 2017.

Gosford, cleaning up the Mangrove Mountain landfill, reclassification “How could ould you possibly possib bly expect one per person and sale of community to be administrator same dministrator and an nd still apply the sa land, or progressing other level of oversite and consultation nine as nin major developments in the councillors llors and a mayor,” mayo or,” Mr Primrose said. s Gosford CBD. “How could you possibly expect one person to be on’t tell us…they department of Prem administrator still apply Premier and future, Iand believe, of life here “They won’t for independent, Dr Davy, d my application Cabinet should be able to level of oversite have refused on the Central Coast.” was Wyoming, wherethehesame stating it is not in the public give estimates of current Ms Wicks as saidnine 600 new secured 3.87 per cent ofand the consultation councillors and abemayor,” he said. to tell me why merger costs now,” h jobs would available interest in vote.

Mr Primrose Mr Primrose said. area by the end also we can’t have elections the Gosford “My pledge to the people question about finding earlier so I am going to addressed questions 2017, been creating many more of Robertson will be that“We I ofhave strative appeals how long the com people the in administrative will continue to listen, that I will opportunities councils forunder community continue to advocate administration and this region.have been tribunal,” Mrr Primrose said. should have to wait wa until She rmed her “Why can’t I will continue to fightputting for n’t the continuing Mr Reynolds had rreceived their reaffi business to there fund ahas medical every single person here on promise ppen with the and analysed repo papers out late, reports on merger happen the heart oversite of the Central Coast to make of an elected controversial issues such as been campus far lessin business Gosford and saidand it was sure that we build a better the former Gosford C discussed at meetings Council’s council and mayor? “a game changer for this “Be they sinners of saints, proposed future,” Ms Wicks said, Land the administrator can’t Sale when claiming the victory in region”. strators are not Strategy that could result possibly go to the dozens the administrators Ms and Wickstalksaid the seat. ves of the local in twenty five of meetings to she five com community representatives intendedgroups to oversee “It is an extraordinary reserves being recl community and the reclassified community,”” he said. privilege I have to say, to plans for rimrose said as operational land a constituents thata “world former class Mr and sold Primrose put yourself forward to sit performing arts centre in he administrator off for development. councillors would have although the Above, A Ab bov ove, o ve, Ms Lucy Wicks MP with her daughter d Molly-Joy and son Oscar to serve the community, so Gosford.

Photo: Noel Fisher “If it was a full council, co gone to.

I was paid out of council “We have a great couple there was a 3.97 per cent I thank all of the candidates “That is where things (ratepayer) funds, he was would say a month, but you up of years to look forward to,” swing away from Ms Wicks who ran and who gavethat individ and e to Mr Baird, have got one individual, the community was accountable this Ms Wicks said. and Ms Charlton gained a their time and efforts toconcerned mmunity. it is very difficult ficult to expect about would diffi not the community.

“I just love this job and community,” she said. swing of 11 per cent. have been flagged and and “They are obliged to one person to do the job I love this community uminous reports while they are also en where now elected councillors engaging provide voluminous we can actually fight would to have to back to the premier; initially in staff reviews and writing “I do pledge to continue to work every seebeen that able the projects ekly, but they’ve reports for the prem test out opinionsareabout premier,” he it was weekly, underway actually single day to fight with every fibre things of completed,” d that back to said. and know she what to now scaled said.

“The proper solution solu raise,” he The said.seat of Robertson is fortnightly, but it is not about my being for a better future for the etails, it is only to let the local com are the sorts community financial details, had 108,509 people enrolled people of the Central Coast.” of “Those things thatformake council,” the good news stories, so elect its own local c to vote the Julylocal 2 federal government and the election local and achieved a state government can he said.

- Lucy Wicks 86.1 per cent create of sitive headlines whetherturnout or notofyou support positive Interview, Jul 20, 2016 which, just overwhy five on per cent ergers,” he said. the amalgamations, about its mergers,” Primrose, NSW Peter Primros “I do pledge to continue voted annot be proper earth are theinformally administrators “There cannot Kariong was another shadow minister for local to continuing until September scrutiny when all the strong booth for Ms to work every single day Above, Abov ove, e final n two-candidate two-c o-ca caandidate preferred result for Robertson R gov government Media conference, fight with every fibre of2017?” my gatekeeperss are reporting appear Posta votes Postal vote app ap ppear pp p to per cent to the Liberals Charlton, where she grew Jackie Pearson, journalist jo Jul 6, 2016 being for a better future for with 2013, the Labor Party’s vote by 9 have a e favoured favo favoure f ed d M Mss Wicks compared w Lucy Wicks, member for the people of the Central who attained attai ttained d5 52 2 per pe err cent of followed by a swing in her per cent.

Robertson Some of the strongest Coast.”

Caitlin Lavelle, Emma preference postal posta p po stal firstt pref pre prefe eferenc ference rence e votes. favour of 6.72 per cent at “I would like to let people Hawes, journalists booths for The Greens were strongest individual The stro onges onge gest est ind in dividual Pretty Beach. know their votes do count, Australian Electoral booths polling boot polling oths ths hs for fo orr Ms Ms Wicks The result was less Copacabana and Avoca their votes do matter and Commission Tally Room where were ere Terrigal, T Terriigal, wh Terriga w he ere she favourable at booths such and Gosford City.

Robertson, Jul 12, 2016 One of the best booths their votes will change the Gosford where achieved h a swi swing o of 8.49 as West Gos

Ph: 4325 7369

Labor La Lab bor concedes b co defeat

s Anne Charlton, Labor Party candidate for the seat of Robertson in the July 2 federal election, conceded defeat d in a media statement on Wednesday, July 6.

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“This morning I called Lucy Wicks to congratulate her on winning the seat of Robertson,” said Ms Charlton.

“For more than nine months, months I have had the privilege of being out and about in the community I love, speaking with

thousands of locals about the issues that matter to them,” she said.

“The Central Coast is my home, and I will always work to make our region an even live, work better place to live and raise a family.

“Thank you to the people of Robertson who voted

for me, and p put their trust in me to stand up and be their voice in the federal parliament. showed their “Locals sh support for our campaign by protect Medicare, voting to prote support increased education funding, and create steady and secure job.

“I want to thank my dedicated and tireless campaign team, and the passionate members of the union movement who spent every day speaking with locals about how this Liberal Government has hurt the Coast.

“It has been a great honour to represent the Labor Party, and stand with a movement that has for

READ

Media release, Jul 6, 2016 Anne Charlton, Labor candidate for Robertson Anne Charlton

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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With the fate of the 400 free car parks atop Kibbleplex (formerly Marketplace) unclear, commuters already fed up with Gosford’s parking situation are concerned about the city’s lack of dedicated free parking.

The potential loss of the free Kibbleplex parking is not the end of Gosford’s parking woes, with commuters questioning the safety and useability of the Baker St car park, and outright dismissal of the free commuter parking opposite Gosford Train Station, which is nonexistent after 6am.

To make matters worse, with the controversial ATO building poised to not the only development begin construction on the in the city that has the waterfront, the political potential to tip the parking promise of 600 jobs may issue over the edge. prove disastrous for Ms Scott said the commuters when an army CBD and the immediate of temporary workers and surrounding areas of the building’s permanent West Gosford, North staff descend on the city’s Gosford, East Gosford highly sought after parking and Point Frederick, unsatisfactory. spaces. indicates high potential for are definitely facing a According to the report: port: contamination of surface The ATO, which has parking shortfall, and that “It appears that no formal ormal waters groundwaters.” already souredand residents developments …review has been required uiredbelieved The the former offi ficer residential who who despite not to consider the potential ential completed the approved, site Gosford School site providing adequate parking groundwater impacts of f this better inspection recommended was suited to a allocation, were to blame. development. immediate compliance Performing Arts Precinct, “Parking issues are more “The nature of was therevealed action toforhave the aextraction than just availability of activity, and the magnitude tude of groundwater, shortfall of onsite parking damage commuter parking. and sensitivity of forthe waterfront land and to futuretoemployees. of the residential location warrant an refuse an application “Many for In June, the Joint developments that have assessment of the potential ential controlled activity approval.

Regional Planning Panel been approved in the CBD impacts against the Aquifer uifer The “waterfront” referred found that the ATO’s andthe immediate surrounds Interference Policy ‘minimal nimal to was described by developer, Doma, would are for two or three Offi impact considerations’, ons’, Office fice of Water as “forming need to add 13 extra should the development ment part of the headwaters of bedroom units, but the parking spaces for the proceed [under yet-to-be o-be the Wyong River”. parking allocation has only public landfi finalised new EPA licencing ncing in Baker The St. landfill fill operator been one per unit, not one Despite the Terra) JRPP’s conditions],” the document ment (Verde responded spot per bedroom. findings, by it supplying is unclear Offi said. the Office fice if a three-bedroom “So whether will be with enough In terms of whether r the this of Water information unit becomes share to the existing landfill has had d any accommodate that Gosford Council had one resident will housing, dramatic increase inaactivity impact on groundwater, r, an granted Section have96a car park within the and c to and around August 2012 site inspection ctiontraffiamendment to its original development but where site, development and accordingconsent to by the Office of the Water willand the other two residents former Councillor, Landfi concluded: “Evidence ence Gosford an addendum to a Landfill park?fill Ms Vicki Environmental Scott, the ATOManagement is gathered onsite indicates cates that the groundwater table Plan. has been intercepted d by Verde Terra was told excavation with seepages ages they had no consent under noted up to approximately ately the Water Management Act half the height of the pit. t.

2000 to undertake proposed works.

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August 2016 An artist’s impression of the mixed use development approved11, for 155 to 161 Mann St Gosford

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section 96 application is being considered by Central Coast Council for the $17.6 million redevelopment of the Dutton’s Tavern site at 157 to 161 Mann St Gosford.

The application will see a reduction in the number of units, increased basement parking and the inclusion of the land at 163 Mann St, located between the development site and the Imperial Centre.

The former Gosford Council approved DA47056/2015 in December for a 14-storey mixed use development comprised of a tavern and shop top housing.

The development was subsequently acquired from Mr Bob Bourne by Mr John Singleton and the adjoining property at 163 Mann St

Documents obtained under nder Freedom of Information reveal glect damning evidence of neglect

was acquired. advantage of being located The latest application to close to public transport. modify the development, Gosford Council now called Bonython, was approved a minor variation received by Central Coast in the floor space ratio for Council on May 27 and is the development and made currently working its way allowances for car parking. through a consultation Two podium levels will process. include 15 residential units.

Council granted the Floors three through to development a two-year 12 will house another 54 consent, so work will need residential units and there to be underway before will be two penthouse December 2017 to ensure apartments on the top floor. the approval for the project Website, Jul 27, 2016 does not lapse.

Central Coast Council The development o c u m e n tFind s an application, will include a tavern, obtained

by DA47056/2015 provide new residential opportunities and hasthe the Mountain

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istricts Association rom the NSW Office f Water, show the andfill at Mangrove Mountain has flouted egal requirements ecessary to protect atural water esources, since at east 2005.

The association used the overnment Information ublic Access) Act 2009 access documents that ll a damning story of alfeasance by two landfill perators, the Gosford ouncil and the NSW Protection uthority, in relation to eir responsibility to keep e Central Coast’s water Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford upply safe.

Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 The0940 documents show Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford at 2250 officers from the NSW E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net ffice of Water, within the Website: www.centralcoastnews.net epartment of Primary dustries (and its former quivalents), have been ising concerns about the peration of the landfill for least 10 years (2005 to 015).

Despite concerns ised by the Office of Water, Gosford Council, s consent authority, and e EPA as the licencing uthority, continued to allow e landfill to operate.

The Mountain Districts ssociation has been questing a meeting with e former Gosford Council, nd the new Central Coast ouncil, since January 016.

The new Central Coast ouncil has finally agreed meet with the Mountain The existing nvironmental Tavern

An Office of Water photo from 2012 showing poor management of ground and surface water at the landfill

Districts Association on August 23 to discuss the landfill.

The EPA, although it has agreed to an independent review of the landfill’s operations, continues to work with the operator to apply new licencing conditions which would allow the site to recommence taking waste.

The EPA has informed the Mountain Districts Association that, during the week from August 1 to 5, the EPA and Office of Water met the landfill operator at the site to again discuss water licencing and approvals.

The GIPA documents outlining past failures to deal with water licencing and approvals are extensive and detailed.

This article includes only key points in the documents,

SHARE ARE EW WW WWW WW COASTCOMMUNITYNEWS CO COM AU

more than 120 years fought for a better deal for working people.

“I will continue to stand against threats to privatise Medicare, cuts to education, and tax cuts that will only benefit big business while working families get left behind,” Ms Charlton said.

Ph: 4325 7369

osford City is facing a parking crisis, with uncertainty, confusion and c o n g e s t i o n surrounding the city’s major car parks.

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council election needs to be held on the Central Coast before the September 2017 date currently put forward by the NSW Government, according to the state’s shadow minister for local government, Mr Peter Primrose.

Your You Yo ou ur independent indepen p ndent local newspaper

Your independent local newspaper

Issue 140

Gosford City is facing a parking crisis with no plan in place

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Wicks W Wi ks w win wins iinnns Rob Robertson by 2093 votes

To make it easier for voters to see the totals pledged and what they are for, Coast Community News has put together a spend-o-meter to illustrate the value of pledges made by both major parties since the election was called eight weeks ago.

The Robertson spend-o-meter will also give readers a list of what to look out for in the future to keep track of how many promises have been kept by the winning party. s Lucy ucy Wicks Wi Our major election coverage, including candidate profiles, general information about the Robertson electorate, the s nounced location of polling booths as well as the latest and final information from all the parties as they relateatonRobertson her err win in the begins on page 10.

Area excavated in 2012 destined to be lined and filled with more waste

the activities of Mangrove Mountain Landfill.

“It is the only way all of the facts can come out into the open.

“While we know a lot about what has gone on, we also know that there is a lot of other damning information not in the public domain for reasons of confidentiality, that needs to come out.

“This must have an opportunity to be made public and a commission of inquiry is the only way this can happen.

“The EPA and the former Gosford Council are both guilty of failing to meet their statutory obligations with regards to the Landfill.

“They have sat and watched the pile of waste grow to mountainous proportions way beyond what council approved.

“They have turned their backs while illegal waste was dumped there so that we now have a major environmental problem.

“This is the Central Coast’s major environmental and public health issue,” he said.

Your independent local newspaper

$10,000,000* $$12,000,000**

oth major parties, Liberal and Labor, have been making promises to spend money on key projects for Robertson throughout the election campaign.

Development approval of Australian alian Taxation Office building deferred red

$10,000,000

Some of the exposed waste at the Mangrove Mountain landfill

public meeting will be held at Gosford Leagues Club on June 16 to alert Gosford and Wyong residents to the risks associated with the Mangrove Mountain landfill.

$-

$30,000,0 000 $-

* $10 million already in Federal Budget for regional performing arts centre ** To be shared between all Central Coast train stations and mobile blackspots along Coast to Sydney rail corridor ^ Funding to be shared between Robertson and Dobell but predominantly for Robertson NB: We have excluded commitments that relate to unspecified shares of state-wide or nation-wide programs

$30,000,000

Ph: 4325 7369

$20,000,0 000

Commonwealth Institute of Higher Education at Gosford Continuous in-train mobile wi-fi from Central Coast to sydney New and upgraded CCTV cameras in Copacabana and Terrigal

$60,000,000

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The Mountain Districts Association community group has called the meeting as part of its campaign for a public inquiry into the operation and regulation of the “huge leaky waste dump that has the potential to poison the water supply to over 300,000 residents of the Central Coast.”

The group’s primary aim is to see the dump closed and the site cleaned up, “rather than put the community at even greater risk by allowing substantially more waste to be dumped on the site over the next 10 years.

“We have absolutely no confidence that EPA and Council oversight will be any better than it has been over the past 15 years,” said Mountain Districts Association spokesperson Dr Stephen Goodwin.

“Successive dump operators ran amok and broke all the rules and guidelines without any substantial penalty,” Dr Goodwin said.

July 28, 2016

Council election needs to be held before September 2017 - Primrose

Liberal

$80,000,000

Performing Arts Centre Gosford

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Issue 136

La abor Scope feasibility of straightening railway line between Coast

$70,000,000

June 16, 2016

E FRE

Ph: 4325 7369

Robertson Spend-O-Meter

Public meeting called over Coast’s major environmental and public health issue

but the facts uncovered support the Mountain Districts Association’s call for a full commission of inquiry by the NSW Government, the immediate closure of the landfill and full remediation of the site.

2015 Documents from 2012 to 2015 relate to future activities proposed at the landfill if the EPA issues new licencing conditions.

The most recent document from the Office of Water was dated September 2015, following an inspection of the landfill site by officers which confirmed recent construction work undertaken to reshape a sediment dam wall and construct a new spillway.

“Recent works are not to an acceptable standard and

likely to fail,” the document said.

This work was subject to the Land and Environment Court Consent of 2012 but, according to the document,

“Recent works are not to o d an acceptable standard and likely to fail.” had been carried out without Controlled Activity Approval being granted by the Office of Water.

2014 In January 2014 the Office of Water commented that proposals for groundwater monitoring at the site were

“Inspection of the river and the waterfront land along the northern boundary dary indicates significant harm caused by sedimentation ti and uncontrolled runoff.

“The wall of the basin appears likely to fail and cause additional major harm to the river.

“Leechate seepage entering surface water stormwater drains

The commuter car park opposite Gosford Train Station

“They will be looking for spots on the street,” Ms Scott said.

Ms Scott also said that the problem is already evident in areas like Point Frederick and East Gosford, where flat buildings have come online and street parking is still an issue.

“Although the former Gosford Council discussed and intended to come up with a CBD parking strategy, I have checked and there isn’t one.

“There is nothing in place.

“What will happen when all the big developments come online and what will happen to parking if they all start at the same time?

“Where will the parking be?” Ms Scott questioned.

According to Ms Scott, during discussions with the former Gosford Council, she brought up issues of traffic and parking management multiple times, including: “The acceptance of a number of large developments in the CBD without having adequate

parking for residents of those developments and others; cramped parking around developments in Point Frederick (Lynn Ave) and other sites in North and West Gosford; the lack of common sense in agreeing to allow developments of two and three bedroom apartment buildings to be constructed with only one car space per unit at best (Ms Scott said there was an expectation that people will walk or take the bus to the station); the narrow streets in some of these areas and the existing parking problem; and, consideration for the huge impact when the new developments are completed.

“I had suggested we should do a traffic management study for the area with these concerns in mind, but there appeared to be minimal interest in my concerns,” Ms Scott added.

On the concerns surrounding Baker St car park, Ms Scott said the former council had

endeavoured to add more floors onto the car park but said there were issues with the building being able to support extra floors and that she was unsure as to whether or not any further action surrounding Baker St car park occurred after the initial idea tanked.

However, Ms Scott said she could understand commuter concerns over the safety of using Baker St car park, especially after hours.

Ms Scott also said that aside from the future of Kibbleplex, no other discussion took place amongst the former Gosford Council in regards to parking in the CBD and that despite her own questions about the future of parking in Gosford City, there has been no satisfactory response.

The issue is further complicated by the interrelation of parking as a social issue and a State Government responsibility.

“There is an element of responsibility for the State

Government in this.

“Rail transport, as a form of commuter travel, is the responsibility of the State Government and there is some expectation that that government takes an active interest in the problem.

“However, socially, it is seen as a Local Government matter, and the public expects Local Government to play a part in it as well.

“To my knowledge, there were no plans or strategies discussed between the last council and the State Government to address the issues of commuter parking,” Ms Scott said.

“I hope the current council takes these concerns and acts on them before any more development is approved.

“The city CBD and the surrounding suburbs is a small area.

“The CBD has three streets taking the traffic through it.

“These streets are cramped between a mountain and the water.

“There is no apparent way to solve the problem, and increased parking demand is just exacerbating it.

“The fact that the DA for the ATO was allowed without sufficient parking is also going to exacerbate the problem,” Ms Scott continued.

“I don’t know what the council can do about this, but it certainly seems that the Federal and State Governments are failing in their responsibilities in this matter.

“I think, if the commuter car parking at Kibbleplex is stopped without a solution from the State and the council, and the ATO and other developments are actually built, car parking in the CBD, including commuter car parking, will be a disastrous problem that will take far too long to solve, if ever,” Ms Scott concluded.

Continued Page 8

Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Fax: 4321 0940 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250

2012 According to the Office Offi fice of Water documents, Gosford Council did not express concerns to the Offi Office fice of Water about the landfi fill’s activities being potentially in breach of its development consent until August 2012.

The years 2011 and 2012 represented a period of heightened correspondence between the Office of Water, Gosford Council and the landfill operator.

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Continued Page 8

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 free e nnewspaper ewsp ew spap sp aper er w with itithh in in-depth de Coast Local Government Area news!

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Health

P18 P1 18 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Community feedback sought Relief for Type for Disability Action Plan

yong region residents suffering from Type 2 diabetes could be in for a dramatic change in their healthcare according to Minsiter for Health, Ms Sussan Ley.

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entral Coast Council will present two community forums in the Wyong area to promote community feedback for its Disability Action Plan.

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From accessible events and amenities through to beach wheelchair access and other social or economic opportunities, Council is working hard to remove the barriers people with a disability face each and every day.

Council is developing a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan to identify the barriers people with a disability face in the community when accessing services and facilities, and to find the right solution.

The overall aim of the plan is to create a more inclusive community for people living with disabilities on the Central Coast by: developing positive community attitudes and behaviours; creating more liveable communities; achieving a higher rate of meaningful employment participation through more inclusive employment practices; and, ensuring more equitable access to all services delivered to the community.

Council’s plan will support the

The Central Coast Council is seeking the Wyong community's feedback into its Disability Action Plan

NSW Government’s commitment to change attitudes and remove obstacles, so people with a disability have a better opportunity to live a meaningful life and enjoy the full benefits of being a community member.

An important part of developing the plan is to talk directly to, and seek feedback from, people with a disability about what they think will make their community and council more accessible and inclusive.

Council is hosting a number of community forum events to discuss the Disability Inclusion

Action Plan across the Central Coast in September.

The first Wyong forum will be held at The Blue Haven Community Centre on September 13.

The second will be at Wyong Civic Centre (in Central Coast Council’s Wyong Office) on September 15.

Guest speakers at the forums will include NSW Disability Council’s Ms Leigh Creighton, and the Central Coast ‘Living Life My Way’ ambassador, Ms Alanna Julian.

The forums are wheelchair accessible

and have accessible amenities, a hearing loop, Auslan interpreters, a quiet zone, and accessible parking.

A Disability Inclusion Reference Group is also being formed, which will involve a blend of community members who live on the Central Coast and have a disability, carers and family members of those with disability, along with representatives from organisations providing services to people living with a disability.

Media release, Aug 25, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

Ms Ley said as many as 20,000 Australians living with Type 2 diabetes will find it easier and cheaper to manage their condition every day thanks to the Turnbull Government subsidising another $70 million round of new revolutionary medicines that will also help save the lives of women with advanced cervical cancer.

Ms Ley announced the September 1, listings on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which take the Coalition’s total investment in listing new medicines to $4.5 billion since coming to office.

Ms Ley said the listing of revolutionary new diabetes treatment Exanatide (Bydureon) would see patients only having to inject themselves once a week, rather than twice a day, meaning they will avoid up to 13 injections per week.

Patients will also save over $1600 per year, she said.

“As one of our most prominent chronic diseases, Type 2 diabetes is placing a significant cost on the nation’s health and finances at nearly $1 billion per year,” Ms Ley

said.

“According to Diabetes Australia there were about 4000 amputations last year that could have avoided with better daily management of a patient’s condition.

“Our hospitals also saw over 900,000 diabetesrelated admissions.

“Subsiding innovative medicines like these makes it easier for thousands of patients to keep on top of their diabetes and better manage their medication, while not only saving them time and money, but also the health system.

“It will particularly benefit indigenous Australians, who are five times more likely to die from diabetesrelated causes than nonIndigenous people.

“These new diabetes treatments complement our commitment to improving primary care through our landmark Health Care Homes initiative, a better way of delivering Medicare for Australians with chronic illness,” Ms Ley said.

Linagliptin (Trajenta) and linagliptin with metformin (Trajentamet) as well as vildagliptin (Galvus) and

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P19 9

Relay for Life aims to raise $250,000

2 diabetes sufferers vildagliptin with metformin (Galvumet), for use in triple oral therapy, will also be made available under the new September listings, providing patients with additional treatment options for Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

These drugs are used to lower blood sugar levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes and can be used on their own or in combinations.

Ms Ley said in further good news for taxpayers, these new diabetes treatments were all expected to be cost neutral as they were an alternative to existing treatments, demonstrating the Coalition’s commitment to also ensuring medicines on the PBS are kept as up-todate as possible.

However, Ms Ley said the Turnbull Government was also balancing this innovative approach with continuing to list expensive medicines without “fear or favour”,

including $60 million to list Bevacizumab (Avastin) on the PBS for the treatment of persistent, recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer where surgery or radiation is not a viable treatment.

“This announcement will help save the lives of over 200 Australian women who aren’t responding to conventional treatments for their cervical cancer and therapy and was previously out of reach at $55,000 per course of treatment.

They will now pay just $6.20 per script if they’re a concessional patient or $38.30 if they’re a general patient.

“It is the same for patients suffering from Acromegaly, a rare condition caused by an overproduction of growth hormone by the pituitary gland which can lead to abnormal growth of the hands, feet and face, with our $10 million investment in listing Pasireotide (Signifor) helping subside

Health

a treatment that would otherwise cost them $50,000.

“However, these breakthrough medicines also come at a significant cost to taxpayers and we must be able to pay for them.

“Australians must never forget Labor blocked access to millions of dollars of breakthrough medicines because they couldn’t afford to the list them on the PBS. “We must avoid Labor’s critical error at all costs.

“That’s why we must undertake improvements to the health system. Every dollar spent on inefficiency in the health system is a dollar we cannot invest in cures like these,” Ms Ley said.

The above medicines will be available on the PBS from September 1.

Media release, Aug 14, 2016 Steven Block, Office of Sussan Ley MP

Participants in the 2015 Relay for Life at Mingara

he Annual Mingara Relay for Life event to raise money for the Cancer Council is on again at the Mingara Athletics Track from October 8-9.

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The event is aiming to make over $250,000 in donations to help further cancer prevention research and is calling for Central Coast residents to come along and donate as well as have a good time.

“Relay for Life is a chance for communities to recognise and celebrate those who have overcome cancer or are undergoing

treatment, as well as the people who care for them,” a Cancer Council spokesperson said.

Participants are encouraged to get creative and dress up in costumes as well as organise themes within their teams to add colour to the event.

Each person on the team pays a registration

fee.

Participants receive a t-shirt and breakfast in the morning.

“There are no age limitations or fitness requirements, Relay for Life is suitable for everyone, to join in the fun,” the spokesperson concluded.

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Education

P20 P2 20 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

2016 Schools’ Spectacular at new venue

Gorokan students to present debut mega-musical orokan Public School will be holding three performances of their new mega-musical “Oz” from September 14-17.

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Deputy Principal, Mr Jason Clenton, said: “Three captivating performances will showcase the students’ talents in the creative and practical arts including writing, acting, singing and dancing.”

The script was written eachers from Gorokan, Warnervale and Wyong Public Schools, by students and staff, and Northlakes High School, were the only schools in the former and includes musical Wyong Shire to be part of a “sneak peek” at the new home of the

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numbers created by each grade from Kindergarten to Year 6.

“The show has been four years in the making and has involved a mammoth effort, not just by the staff and students, but also by the countless parent and community volunteers, especially in creating the spectacular

costumes and sets,” Mr Clenton said.

All 560 students and staff helped put this musical together and tickets are now on sale at the Gorokan Public School office.

Media Release, 19 August 2016 Jason Clenton, Gorokan Public School

Schools’ Spectacular.

Teachers from schools across the Hunter and Central Coast will get to preview the QUDOS Bank Arena at Sydney’s Olympic Park on November 19.

The arena will host the largest-ever event in the Schools’ Spectacular’s 33-year history on Friday and Saturday, November 25-26.

Schools’ Spectacular Creative Director, Ms Sonja Sjolander, said teachers are the backbone of the Schools’ Spectacular.

“These enthusiastic teachers are dedicated to nurturing the talents of our huge cast,” Ms Sjolander said.

“They not only devote countless hours to rehearsals, but also put immense energy into facilitating every aspect of the students’ involvement in the buildup to the November shows.

“Without the commitment of these wonderful teachers there would be no Schools’ Spectacular,” she said.

Ms Sjolander said the teachers will be excited to discover which segments their students will feature in, and their role behind the scenes in the immense

show.

“It will be the first time that the show rundown has been revealed beyond the production team,” Ms Sjolander said.

“There will be some surprises,” Ms Sjolander promised.

“Our move west to Sydney Olympic Park has opened a wealth of possibilities.

“We’re living up to this year’s theme ‘Think Big’.

“This year’s show is certainly a hot ticket item.

“It’s a chance to see the stars of the future and to marvel at the talents that abound in our NSW public schools,” Ms Sjolander concluded.

A spokesperson from the Department of Education’s Media Unit confirmed that multiple schools participated in the “sneak peek” either by physically visiting the venue or through a webcast.

However, the spokesperson could not outline how schools were selected to be a part of the “sneak peek” over other schools involved in the School Spectacular.

When questioned about the fairness of certain schools being given extra exposure and familiarity with the

venue through the “sneak peek” the spokesperson insisted there was no issue of fairness as the Spectacular was not a competitive event.

“Those schools and teachers who were not involved in the “sneak peek,” teachers meeting and/or any future rehearsals at the site are not really disadvantaged because it is not competitive, so there is no element of advantage through familiarity.

“The Spectacular also brings together students from far flung schools and organisers are experienced in gearing practice and preparation to accommodate remote participants.

“Prior to the performances, during Spec week, everyone comes together to block and rehearse the dancers as a single performance group.

“Over the many years that I have been involved in the Spectacular I am amazed at how well that comes together,” the spokesperson said.

Numeracy session for parents and carers at Budgewoi

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udgewoi Public School will hold a Parent Numeracy Session on August 30, in its AV Room.

The session will involve demonstrating some of the strategies used to teach mathematics in the classroom to K to 6

students, to parents and carers.

These may assist with helping their child with mathematics at home and

all parents and carers are welcome to attend.

Newsletter, Aug 22, 2016 Kerry Moore, Budgewoi Public School

PDHPE curriculum needs reviewing ember for The Entrance, Mr David Mehan, said reports of a website containing pornographic images of school students, including references to local schools, are of great concern.

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Mr Mehan said the Department of Education is providing him with regular updates about the site and he said that he was confident in the abilities of the Media release, Aug 15, 2016 Coast’s public education Media statement, professionals to deal with Aug 26, 2016 Grant Hatch, Department of the matter as it unfolds.

Parents and students Education Dilon Luke, journalist who need support or advice should, in the first instance, contact their

school principal.

People with information should contact Police on the Crime Stoppers number on 1800 333 000 Mr Mehan noted the PDHPE curriculum currently includes only one component on respectful relationships and this is only a voluntary subject for senior students.

“We need to give students the support and the knowledge they need, to know that social media can be used for exploitation,” he added.

Mr Mehan will be writing to the Minister to ask that he review the PDHPE curriculum accordingly.

Media release, Aug 18, 2016 David Mehan, Member for The Entrance

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

www.youthoffthestreets.com.au

Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P21 1

Couch Project helps fight homelessness

100th anniversary of the naming of ANZAC Ave commemorated

eenagers and young adults in the Wyong area have been urged to be part of a vital Salvation Army project to fight youth homelessness.

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Money raised by simply spending one night sleeping on a couch can be directed to Oasis Youth Services in Wyong or to any other Salvation Army youth service.

Registration involves setting up your own team or joining another and the Salvos have a fund raising target of $120,000.

The Couch Project is for high school and primary school students as well as adults.

Top causes of youth homelessness are family violence and family breakdown.

Latest figures show more than 44,000 young people aged 0 to 24 are homeless.

“The issue is simply massive and is happening on a disturbing level,” said the Salvation Army’s Territorial Youth Coordinator, Mr Jason Poutawa.

“The Couch Project is a great way for people in the Wyong area to fundraise to help young people in crisis,” he said.

The project asks people to spend a night on their couch to raise money for Salvos’ Youth Services.

The project raises critical awareness about youth homelessness and offers information about how to help young people who may be experiencing homelessness.

People taking part can do it any time between August and October, but the official date of the sleepover fundraiser is Friday, September 16.

“We are asking people to host a sleepover and raise money to provide a safe refuge where young Aussies can sleep,” Mr Poutawa said.

“Together we can give young people who are experiencing

homelessness food, blankets, counselling and support to get them out of danger and back on their feet.

“It’s not a sleepover if you cannot go home.

“If you are getting by in somebody else’s lounge room, it is a huge struggle.

“Friendships can get burnt.

“There is a powerful story behind every person.”

Once people are involved in the initiative, they set up a personalised fundraising page and start promoting their sleepover with a mate or group. “$10 raised helps provide a warm nutritious meal for a young person experiencing homelessness,” Mr Poutawa said.

Media release, Aug 10, 2016 Jason Poutawa, Salvation

Major upgrade and expansion of The Entrance playground underway

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entral Coast Council will close the playground at The Entrance Waterfront to undertake a major upgrade and expansion to the play area.

A new larger play area will be installed over the coming months as part of the $3.5m upgrade of The Entrance Waterfront.

As part of this project, the nearby Sails Stage has already been removed, however the much loved Vera’s Garden will stay, as will the existing large pine trees in the area.

Manager of Strategic and Environmental Planning, Mr Phillip Loone, said that the upgrade is about Council investing in creating great outdoor spaces to enhance the area’s natural beauty.

“The new play area will be a larger, more diverse, more colourful

and interactive play space that will cater for children of all ages,” Mr Loone said.

The playground upgrade is estimated to be completed before Christmas but is dependent on both the weather and the sites condition after the demolition of the existing playground, according to a Council spokesperson.

While the playground transition is underway, families can use the nearby playground on the other side of Memorial Park, next to the Visitor Information Centre.

Weekly musical entertainment at The Entrance Waterfront will

be temporarily suspended and resume once the demolition and related site works are finished.

Upcoming festivals and events such as the Country Music Festival, the Ukulele Festival and Chromefest will continue as usual in other venues around the Waterfront such as the main stage in Memorial Park.

Mr Loone said that Council’s contractors were working tirelessly to complete the overall upgrade of The Entrance Waterfront.

Media release, Aug 1, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

Out&About

Ms Evelyn Gordon unveils the commemorative plaque for the centenary of the naming of Anzac Ace in Tuggerah

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t was 100 years ago that residents of Tuggerah gathered at the Public Hall to support the renaming of a local road, that ran from the railway station to the former post office, as ANZAC Ave.

It was also declared that 37 trees would be planted along the road in honour of local service personnel gone to fight in the First World War. The Wyong Family History Group held a service at the Tuggerah Community Hall to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the naming of ANZAC Ave. Local resident, Ms Evelyn Gordon, unveiled a plaque in honour of the occasion.

Evelyn’s grandfather, Mr Joseph Preston, planted the 29th tree on the avenue that she and her family have lived in for many years.

Federal Member for Dobell, Ms Emma McBride, said support for the monument was provided through a $3,700 Federal

Government grant as part of the ANZAC Centenary Local Grants program.

This was in addition to a grant of $7,000 which the group used to produce commemorative banners for 12 local servicemen who served during WWI. “The Anzac Centenary grants program was designed to support community projects that commemorate the service and sacrifice of servicemen and women in the First World War,” Ms McBride said.

“When this street was renamed and the avenue of trees established, every resident in Tuggerah was involved,” she said.

“People were searching for a way to honour their loved ones who had left to fight in the war.

“This was a symbol of their sacrifice, but also

of the impact it had on the community they left behind.

“A lot has changed here in ANZAC Avenue and buildings have replaced the trees, so it’s important that we continue to commemorate this aspect of our history.

“The Wyong Family History Group have worked really hard to bring these projects to fruition, and I would like to congratulate John Selwood from the group who led this process.”

The ANZAC Centenary Local Grants program provided up to $125, 000 per electorate for projects that commemorate WW1.

Media release, Aug 26, 2016 Heather Robinson, office of Emma McBride

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

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

Janice on 4388 2253 Sandra on 4392 8716

$7 per Night Come and join in on the fun!

Out&About

P22 P2 22 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

The 2016 Chinese Cultural Festival is set to be bigger than ever he colourful C h i n e s e c u l t u r a l festival is to be held on Sunday, September 18, at the Memorial Park at The Entrance.

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With 20,000 first and second generation Chinese immigrants and descendants living on the Coast, the community is encouraged to become Chinese for the day to celebrate the Chinese Moon Festival.

Held in mid-autumn in China, the Moon festival is celebrated by families by admiring the beauty of the full moon and eating moon cake, which will be featured at the festival, with free moon cake tasting and sampling of a variety of Chinese tea.

The annual event is organised by the China Australia Friendship Association and aims to promote harmony and embrace the strong Chinese community on the Coast, as well as provide a platform for other local cultural groups living in the area to come together.

For four years running, the Wallarah 2 Community Foundation Grant program has provided funding to ensure the event has the resources it needs to celebrate multiculturalism across the region and this year is

Central Coast,” Ms E Eaton C t lC t”M t said.

“The funding of $2,000 will play an important role in enabling us to make this year’s festival an enjoyable event for locals of all ages, with entertainment, family activities, cultural performances, lion dancing and eye drawing, as well as an abundance of cultural stalls,” she said.

“We are adding a new element to this year’s festival and have organised the Qipao flash mob for the day.

“Qipao is the Chinese famous traditional lady dress, which is very colourful, elegant and

no exception. ti The Chinese Cultural Festival has become an integral part of the Central Coast calendar, but relies heavily on inkind support and grant funding.

Ms Ruby Eaton, President of the China Australia Friendship Association and Festival Convenor, said she was delighted to have the continued support of Wallarah 2 and the local community.

“This is the fourth year Wallarah 2 has sponsored this special event and the sixth year that the Chinese Cultural Festival has taken place on the

graceful, and will be an exciting new addition to the entertainment line-up.

“We are also excited to have an artistic troupe from Guilin Guanxi province who will be performing at the festival,” Ms Eaton said.

Mr Peter Smith, Environment and Community Manager of the Wallarah 2 Coal Project, said: “Events such as this are important for sharing the unique characteristics of the varied cultures and backgrounds of locals in our community.

“Our support through the Community Foundation aims to bolster programs and initiatives such as this, which benefit the Wyong and wider Central Coast community.

“It is wonderful to see the myriad of cultural offerings planned for the festival as locals join together to experience Chinese dancing and cultural performances, art showcases, amazing food as well as stalls displaying modern and traditional products,” Mr Smith said.

For those wishing to experience the festival, it will run from 10am-3pm with free entry.

Media release, Aug 29, 2016 Katey Small, Brilliant Logic Email, Aug 28, 2016 Ruby Eaton,

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P23 3

Out&About

Wyong region takes out six Central Coast Business Excellence Awards

C

Excellence entral Coast Council has congratulated the winners and all the Australia; finalists in the 2016 Central Coast Business Excellence Awards in Business won by Job Centre Australia; Local announced on Saturday August 27 at Mingara.

“We’re proud to sponsor these awards and it is clear from the quality of Central Coast businesses recognised that excellence and business go hand in hand on the Central Coast,” Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said.

“Excellence in business involves focusing on results, thirsting for innovation, cultivating a positive reputation and overcoming resistance,” Mr Reynolds said.

“The hard work and diligence of these business operators and owners has helped shape the Central Coast as a key New South Wales growth centre.”

Mr Reynolds said the newly-amalgamated Central Coast Council is now one of the largest Councils in NSW, with a strong regional voice.

“Council is committed to supporting economic growth on the Coast”, he said.

“We are committed to supporting local business by championing projects which support economic growth and lobbying state and federal governments strongly for this region,” he said.

“We want to make sure that the Central Coast prospers as a place to do business and remains a great place to live.”

Winners from the Wyong area included: Young Entrepreneur won

by Jared Hirst of Servers

Chamber of the Year was won by the Wyong Regional Chamber of Commerce; TrendPac won Excellence in Manufacturing; Mercure Kooindah Waters was recognised as Employer of Choice; and Reliance GP Super Clinic was crowned Business of the Year.

Winners will go on to compete in the NSW Business Excellence Awards later this year.

Media release, Aug 29, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

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Melbourne Cup Lunch $25 See website for details

SEP 3rd - 7pm till 11pm The Greens The Entrance - Warrigal St, The Entrance NSW 2261 - 02 4332 5955 WEB - www.thegreenstheentrance.com.au FB - www.facebook.com/thegreenstheentranc

Out&About

P24 P2 24 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Spring Festival underway arramalong Valley’s annual Spring Festival kicked off on August 27 and will run until September 11.

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The Festival has been running since 2008 and is staged on behalf of the Communities of the Yarramalong Valley,

by Yarramalong Valley Community Inc., with the support of the Wyong Regional Chamber of Commerce.

2016’s event will again be part of the “Australian Springtime Festival”.

The Festival is designed to bring the Community together and introduce the magnificent hinterland of the NSW Central Coast to the general public, while at the same time, providing the various community groups within the Valley the opportunity to raise funds for their causes.

Everybody is welcome to join in the fun of the various events, whether it be entering a scarecrow in the Scarecrow Competition, one of the Valley’s biggest tourist attractions, or simply enjoying a pleasant drive through the Valley to view the fantastic scarecrows entered by others.

The grand finale of the Festival will be the Yarramalong Valley Spring Show held on September 11.

Now upgraded to be part of the Wyong

Shire Agricultural Show, this event will include a number of attractions synonymous with agricultural shows, such as a Wood Chopping competition, an Animal Farm Nursery and a children’s Pet Competition.

Others attractions will include a variety of market and food stalls, a barbecue, a classic car display, fun games such as egg and spoon races, a free jumping castle for the kids, and the inaugural Wife Carrying Competition.

Live music and entertainment will be provided throughout the day.

The Wyong Shire Agricultural Show comprises of five event categories, which will be held at various venues.

These categories include a horse (HACK) event at Morisset Showground, an orchid show at the Wyong Race Course, a cake and biscuit baking competition at Wyong Creek Hall and the Yarramalong Valley Spring Show at Jack Gear Reserve, Yarramalong.

Past entries from Yarramalong's iconic Scarecrow Competition

Media release, Aug 25, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P25 5

Out&About

Clans to gather once more at Norah Head he 20th Annual Gathering of the Clans will be held at Norah Head on September 3.

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With the support of Central Coast Council, Greater Toukley Vision, Norah Head Sporties Club, Brackets and Jam Central Coast Inc, local businesses, residents and community groups, this iconic event will be held at the Norah Head Sports Oval, Bungary Rd. The Parade of the Tartans begins at 9:45am on Saturday at Lawson Lane and ends in front of a Castle Façade where a mass pipe band display opens the day’s celebrations.

The bands will perform throughout the day and at the closing ceremony.

We will have a blessing of the tartans during the ceremony and anyone who has a family tartan is encouraged to take it along and hold it during the blessing.

In the opening ceremony there will be a tribute to the gathering’s

Scottish Country Dancing demonstration

matriarch, Ms Kathy Marvel OAM, who passed away earlier this year.

“Without Kathy this event would not have made it this far,” said Ms Julie Smith, Gathering of the Clans Event Manager.

“Kathy’s son Neil will present the Ken and Kathy Marvel Award Trophy to the winner of the Best Traditional Pipe Band on the day,” Ms Smith said.

Throughout the

day there will be live entertainment, including pipe band performances and medieval displays.

“We have many craft stalls showcasing Scottish and local handicrafts, clan stalls for those who would like to know their Scottish heritage, activities for the lads and lasses, with food and drink from many cultures available at the oval.

“The ladies and gentlemen from Danelaw Medieval Re-enactment

group will be there with the Little Knights School teaching the kiddies what it is like to be a knight in days of olde.

“Have you ever wondered what is under the boys’ kilts?

“Well come along and watch the Highland Games Competition and you will definitely see what is there, while the boys toss the caber, wrestle with a large log and an opponent.

“This year we have

The Stones of Manhood to sort the boys from the men.

“This will be our fourth year with women competitors.

“These female athletes have competed in Scotland along with our male athletes and are definitely worth watching as they compete for trophies and prize money.

“There will also be audience participation throughout the day, so why not get up and

see how far you can toss the caber or test your manhood with the Stones?”

Central Coast Highland Dancing will present the Inaugural Scottish National Dancing Titles to be held during the Gathering of the Clans in Norah Head.

The Scottish National Dancing Titles will seek the dancers best depicting the spirit of Scottish National Dancing.

Similar to Highland Dancing, the dances depict a traditional story and are from the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing Technique.

This competition includes dancers who have competed in Scotland in August and then flown back to compete again for trophies and cash prizes.

The competition will be presented by Mr. Doug McFarlane.

Email, Aug 11, 2016 Julie Smith, Gathering of the Clans

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Adults $5.00 Conc. $3.00 Under 12 free Saturday 9:00-5:00pm Sunday 9:00-4:00pm Crystal Festivals Australia

crystalfestivalsaustralia@gmail.com Local Central Coast Business

www.mrcurtainsandblinds.com.au

Phone: 0405904881

Not for Profit Organisations Arts & Culture Central Coast Potters Society Classes, workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and social events. Annual exhibitions in May and December.

Open Day in Sept 4324 5343 info@ccpotters.org

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

Monthly meetings 1st Tues. 7.30pm Grove Community Centre 1300 665 600

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre 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 Non-profit org in Wyong providing free legal advice.

Intake times for legal advice Tue & Wed10am12pm, Thur 2-4pm 4353 4988 admin_cclc@clc.net.au

wyongdramagroup@gmail.com y g g p@g

Animal Care Central Coast Cat Care $20 Desexing Special Cats only No Pedigrees 4388 6448 4325 3163

Community Groups ARPRA ARPRA is the peak body representing residents living in Residential Land Lease Communities in NSW. We are a non-profit org providing advice and advocacy and training 4358 8246 arpranorthlakes@outlook.com.au

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

Bateau Bay Neighbourhood Centre Financial Counselling, Tool Library, Computer Hub and Computer Lessons, Private Art Therapy Sessions, Homework Help, Self Esteem Group, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group, EAPA-Energy Accounts Payment Assistance, Early Links Outreach Worker, Tax Help, Holiday activities for kids and young people, Community Garden, Events, Referral Services, Op Shop and Food Store.

Community BBQ on first Thurs 4332 7450 http://bbnc.org.au

Central Coast 50+ Singles Social Group Invites Ladies & Gents for dinner, dancing - BBQs & Socialising each w/e.

Monthly programme for all areas of the coast 4396 3640 0437 699 366 50pssg@gmail.com

Central Coast Social Group Social contact, entertainment events, new friendships, for 30’s-60’s Live music, house parties, dinners, BBQs, picnics, trips away etc.

Monthly Meet & Chat 0422 243 101 email cco30s@live.com.au

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

Lake Munmorah Senior Citizens Club Computer Classes, dancing, exercise, pilates, yoga, craft, carpet bowls and Tai Chi. 4358 8390 Long Jetty Senior Citizens Club Computer classes, line dancing, tai chi and zumba gold - M-F, 9am to 3pm for full list of activities 4332 5522 Long Jetty Over 50s Club Indoor bowls, computers, exercises, yoga, linedancing, tai chi and more 9am to 3pm 4332 5522 Mingaletta Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Corporation Meeting place and referral hub for education, health, well-being and cultural programs through

consultative services and community programs Mon-Fri 9am 4pm 4342 7515 admin@mingaletta.com.au

The NSW Justices Association Inc Seeking volunteers for 6 community JP Desks in Wyong Shire Free Insurance and training provided 0418 493 388

P26 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

hearing aids 4321 0275 www.centralcoast.betterhearing australia.org.au

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

benefits@nswja.org.au

Volunteering Central Coast Refer potential volunteers to community organisations and provide support to volunteers and community organisations.

Training for volunteers and managers of volunteers Information Sessions held regularly across the Coast 4329 7122 recruit@volcc.org.au

Wrap with Love Knitting blankets for cold humanity.

Donations of 8ply yarn gratefully received Long Jetty: 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 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 4328 8297 j pp @ joppa@theorchards.com.au

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

Health Groups Better Hearing Australia Central Coast Hearing loss management Support and educational group providing practical experience and confidence Learn the benefits to

Central Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group (Wyong) Meet last Mon Toukley RSL Club, Holmes Ave Toukley 10.00am to 12 noon 4356 9300

Members of Parliament.

2nd Mon 2pm The Entrance Leagues Club 4332 2907

Moore Golf Day, Garage markets and street stalls.

2nd Mon 9.30am Norah Head Legacy 0414 701 489

Politics in the Pub Central Coast Discussion of important political, social, economic, educational and philosophy issues in a non partisan manner. The Grange Hotel 4th Thur (ex Dec)

hartas@bigpond.net.au

Warnervale Branch - NSW Labor Party To support and promote NSW Labor within the Warnervale area.

1st Tue 7pm Hamlyn Terrace Community Centre 0419 128 497 warnervale.labor@gmail.com @g

www.pcfa.org.au

Probus Clubs

GROW Support Groups Small friendly groups formed to learn how to overcome anxiety, depression and loneliness and to improve mental health and well-being.

Anonymous, free and open to all. Weekly meetings at Bateau Bay and Wyong 1800 558 268

Bateau Bay Ladies Probus Club Warm welcome, friendship and interesting speakers.

4th Mon, RSL Hall, Killarney Vale 4332 6625

www.grow.org.au

ParaQuad Specialist healthcare products delivered to your door. 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 Play brass instruments, meet every Tues & Thurs.

Play at community events Park Road The Entrance (north end) 0407 406 669

Toowoon Bay Probus Club Morning tea, guest speakers talking on topics relevant to Seniors, as well as regular exciting social events. 4th Thur 10am.

Anglican Church Hall, Cnr Brooke Ave & Eastern Rd., Bateau Bay 4334 3979 Tuggerah Combined Probus Club Inc Meet new friends and enjoy social events.

2nd Thur., 10:30am, guest speakers.

Social outings 3rd Thur.

Woodbury Park Community Hall, Mardi 4351 0450

Service Groups Inner Wheel Club Wyong Women’s club with the common interest of giving back to the community while developing lasting friendships.

7.00 pm 3rd Wed Wyong Uniting Church 4393 2755 iiw.au.wyong@gmail.com

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

NSW Labor Party The Entrance Day Branch Monthly meetings to discuss and debate policy as well as campaign for local labor candidates and

The Rotary Club of the Entrance Inc. A small, friendly and effective club supporting many local organisations, and international Rotary Activities.

Meetings 6.30 pm Tues Mingara Recreation Club 4367 6540 rotarytheentrance@gmail.com

Torchbearers for Legacy Toukley Raising funds for Brisbane Waters Legacy. Harry

Northern Settlement Services - Volunteers

Friendly visits to the elderly in nursing homes.

People with a second language encouraged to apply. Training & support provided 4334 3877 cvscc@nsservices.com.au

Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Volunteers wanted, challenging conditions, interrupted meals, early starts, breathtaking Tuggerah Lakes views.

Rewards: - Saving distressed boaters or maybe saving a life 0488 442 051 uc.tuggerahlakes@ marinerescuensw.com.au

Special Interest Brisbane Water Caravan Club

Looking for new members www.bwcaravanclub.wix.com/bwcc

4344 4363 Biz Plus Networking Association Grow your business and in the process build worthwhile relationships.

Biz Networking breakfasts Every Thur 7:15- 9am Erina Leagues Club Geoff Neilson network@bizplus.com.au

Central Coast Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Service Free telephone advice and advocacy for all tenants as well as residents in residential parks 4353 5515 cctaas@hotmail.com

Central Coast Soaring Club Inc Gliding Club, Learn to fly, Instruction FREE to members.

14 Y/O and up for Training Thur, Sat, Sun (weather permitting) Bloodtree Rd Mangrove Mountain 0412 164 082 0414 635 047 www.ccsoaring.com.au

Bridge Club Social bridge Tues, 9.45am-1pm The Greens The Entrance (with or without a partner) Len 4332 6989 David 4392 0606 Tuggerah Lakes U3A Long Jetty - Discussions, play reading, cryptic crosswords, talks, readers group, Mahjong Toukley - Creative writing, French conversation Berkeley Vale - Music Appreciation Chittaway Bay - Movies 4390 2451 www.tugglakesu3a.info

Mingara Indoor Bowls Club Daily competition (singles, pairs & triples) Winner’s Prize Strongly social. Sun 9.30am- Noon.

Mon 6.30–9pm.

Wed 9.30am-2pm Ray 4389 2567 Mingara Club 4349 7799 raymurphy1935@hotmail.com ay u p y 935@ ot a co

Sport KI-DO Mingara Judo Academy Junior boys and girls Mon and Wed Two classes 6-8.30pm from 7yrs Kangy Angy 0413 237 010 www.kidomingarajudo.com.au do inga ajudo co au

Womens Groups BPW Central Coast

National Parks Association Central Coast Twice weekly bush walks, varying distances and grades of difficulty.

Explore, enjoy scenery, fauna, flora, history. Keep fit and make friends 4389 4423 & 4332 7378 Central Coast Lapidary Club Minerals & Gems

Empowering women of all ages in the areas of work, education, well-being and friendship.

Monthly dinner meetings, two course meal and speaker.

Community transport avail.

Chris Levis 0438 989 199 bpwcentralcoast@hotmail.com www.bpw.com.au/central-coast

Learn silverwork, Cabochons, Faceting, Enamelling, Stone Fieldtrips & fossicking Weekly Workshops Tues and Thurs 8.30am-2.30pm Thurs 6-10pm 10 Ourimbah Creek Rd Ourimbah 4362 2246

Northern Women’s Health Centre Family law advice, counselling, therapeutic and social groups, workshops, domestic violence and abuse issues.

All services are provided by women for women 4351 1152

cclapidary@optusnet.com.au

www.cccwhc.com.au

If you would like your Community Organisa on listed here, see www.duckscrossing.org or www.centralcoastnewspapers.com for the forms or contact Central Coast Newspapers on - 4325 7369 Entries in the Not For Profit Community Organisations Directory are free.

However, we require each organisation to subscribe to each newspaper to ensure that someone from that organisation keeps their entry up to date.

Australia Post is about to increase their postage rates by over 42% and we can no longer continue to absorb these increases.

Subscription rates have therefore needed to be increased from $50 to $75 for 25 editions.

Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P27 W 7

LALC has two finalists for the Executive of the Year Awards he Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC), situated in Watanobbi, has had two of its members announced as finalists for the 2016 Executive of the Year Awards, presented by CEO Magazine.

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Darkinjung LALC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sean Gordon, has been honoured as a finalist in the Energy and Resources Executive of the Year category, whilst Chairperson, Ms Tina West, is one of four finalists in the Chairperson of the Year category.

Discussing his nomination, Mr Gordon said he was thrilled to be recognised amongst such distinguished

counterparts.

“It was such an honour to be nominated for these awards, and it is incredibly humbling to be announced as a finalist alongside so many recognised names in the Australian business industry,” Mr Gordon said.

Ms West said she was excited and surprised to be announced as a finalist.

“I was really proud to be nominated and then to find out I am a finalist is

very exciting.

“I do have some tough competition, but I am honoured to be the only woman nominated in my category,” Ms West added.

The 2016 Executive of the Year Awards will be held on November 24, at Four Points by Sheraton, Darling Harbour, Sydney.

Media Release, Aug 26, 2016 Ashleigh Milne, Brilliant Logic PR

For events in post code areas 2258, 2259, 2261, 2262 and 226 2263 63 Carlton Mid Wyong Gold Cup Day at Wyong Race Club

Saturday, Sep 3 20th Annual Gathering of the Clans, Bungary Rd, Norah Head from 9:45am to 4:30pm South Indian Harvest Festival will be held at Wyong District Youth an Community Centre from 10:00am to 2:00pm Fire Brigade Trivia Night, Yarramalong Hall The Leadbellies, Coast Hotel in Budgewoi from 8:00pm

Rewbies at Wallarah Bay Rec from 8:00pm

Crafts Extravaganza, Yarramonlong Hall from 10:00am to 3:00pm

Walk for a world without Type 1 Diabetes, Davistown Waterfront from 10:00am Yarramalong Spring Show, Jack Gear Reserve from 9:00am to 4:00pm S p r i n g b a k e Competition, Wyong Creek Hall from 8:30am

Children, Disability and Community Expo 2016, Mingara Recreation Club, 12-14 Mingara Dve, Tumbi Umbi, 10:00am to 2:00pm Wyong Orchid Show, Wyong Race Club from 9:00am to 4:00pm till Sep 11

Tuggerah from 7:00pm

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A Central Coast Council initiative, organised in conjunction with Uniting Care, The Benevolent Society and Horizons Family, Dad’s Day Out is a family friendly and community safe, alcohol free event that celebrates the role men play in the lives of their children.

This year’s event will feature many free activities including: face and plaster painting, badge making, sports, story tent, spray tattoos, the fun engine, Mannering Park Men’s Shed and a barbecue.

There will also be various stalls on the day for parents and carers to

Friday, Sep 16 Ben Woodham at Gwandalan Bowlo from 7:30pm Wyong Show Horse Program at Morisset Showground

Media release, Aug 26, 2016 Central Coast Council Media

arnervale Regional Uniting Church volunteers have put together the bulk kits for community groups and individuals to make into white ribbons for White Ribbon Day on November,

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White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end men’s violence against women and girls, promote gender equality, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity.

Warnervale Regional Uniting Church has been involved with White Ribbon Central Coast for several years.

Each bulk kit contains enough supplies to make 230 ribbons, and there are enough bulk supplies

DG Bruce Lakin meeting with Upper Central Coast Clubs at Gosford Leagues Club Norah Head Surfing Fraternity 40th Anniversary Reunion including a surging expression session at Soldiers Beach from midday and reunion at Sporties Norah Head Central Coast celebrations of the Foundation 100 years at Breakers country club Terrigal

Email, 24 August 2016 Lynne Matson, Warnervale Uniting Church

he Annual Wyong District Garden Competition is under way, and as the two Central Coast Councils have amalgamated, it is possibly the last competition.

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Entries close on September 7, with preliminary judging beginning on September 12 and final judging beginning on September 15.

The presentation day will be at the Wyong Council Chambers on September 22.

Winning gardens will be open on September 25

and there will also be an organised bus trip on that day to view these gardens at a cost of $20 per head.

There are 21 sections in the garden competition ranging from whole gardens, native gardens, over 75 gardeners, pot plants, school gardens, community gardens and business premises.

The competition is

Saturday, Nov 12 Wyong Lakes Festival at assorted locations

Friday, Oct 7 Serendipity at Intuition Music School,

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.

to make a target of 10,000 ribbons, in time for this year’s 16 Days of Activism that coincides with White Ribbon walks and activities.

Wyong District Garden Competition under way

Saturday, Oct 15

Thursday, Nov 24 Free Family Fun Day at Toukley Presbyterian Chuch from 10:30am to 2:00pm Beachletics, Athletics on the Beach, Shelly Beach

enjoy.

Dad’s Day Out kicks off from 10am to 2pm and will run rain, hail or shine.

The event is about celebrating the special men in your life and is open to all forms of family.

Ribbons ready for White Ribbon Day

Mingara Relay for Life, Mingara Athletics track from 3:00pm to 9:00am Sunday

Saturday, Oct 29

Saturday, Sep 24 Saturday, Sep 10

ake Munmorah Reserve will be the site of 2016’s Dad’s Day Out, a special community event to celebrate dads and their impact on their loved ones lives, on September 25.

Saturday, Oct 8 Sunday, Sep 11

Sunday, Sep 18 Sunday, Sep 4

Dad’s Day Out at Lake Munmorah

25.

The Wyong Diary Friday, Sep 2

Out & About

TO DONATE GO TO SALVOS.ORG.AU/SAFE

run for and on behalf of the former Wyong Council by a dedicated group of volunteers who rely on Council grants and donations from local garden clubs and businesses to run the competition.

Media Release, Aug 11, 2016 Errol Grace, Wyong

Classifieds

P28 P2 28 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

PRICES FOR CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS IN THESE PAGES COME IN THREE CATEGORIES

Not For Profit Organisations Not for profit organisations’ advertisements are subsidised.

events

A mono 5cm advertisement only costs $20 + GST. Each additional cm is only an additional $4 + GST, colour is $6 + GST and a photograph or logo is an additional $6 + GST.

Private advertisements Private advertisements only cost $33.

Each additional cm costs $6.60 as does colour, and a photograph or a logo.

Private advertisements need to be paid for at the time of booking.

Business rates A one off advertisement only costs $40 + GST in mono and an extra $8 + GST for colour, a logo or a photograph.

Advertising on an ongoing basis attracts discounts if paid for in full in advance.

3 months $215 + GST, 6 months $385 + GST, 12 months $700 + GST – Approximately $14 per week.

Having the same advertisement in one of the other Central Coast Newspapers as well attracts an additional 10% discount for those advertisements.

If in the third paper as well, it will attract a 15% discount which drops to $11.50 + GST per week in that paper.

Artwork is free and advertisers are encouraged to change their advertisements frequently.

Online classified advertising rates Online only

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Tilers wanted!

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It costs a similar amount to go on any one of the other nine Sydney based websites as well, or only $1699 + GST for all sites for 12 months.

The other sites cover Bondi, Manly, Newtown, Cronulla, South Sydney, St George, West Sydney, North Sydney, Wollongong and suburbs surrounding those areas.

All that we require for you to have an online advertisement such as this is: 1) Heading for the advertisement; 2) Text for the body; and, 3) Up to 3 images if required i.e. logos etc.

Having a Gosford classifieds premium on line advertisement plus a printed advertisement in one newspaper will only cost $495 + GST for 3 months, $695 + GST for 6 months and $999 + GST for 12 months.

Having it in two newspapers as well as online costs $595 + GST for 3 months, $995 + GST for 6 months and $1499 + GST for 12 months.

To be in all three newspapers as well as online costs $795 + GST for 3 months, $1395 + GST for 6 months and $1899 + GST for 12 months.

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Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P29 W 9

Sport

Tender to be awarded “very soon” for Tuggerah Regional Sport and Recreation Complex he Central Coast Council has confirmed it expects a tender to be awarded “very soon” for work on Stage 1 of the $34 million Regional Sport and Recreation Complex at the Pioneer Dairy in Tuggerah.

T

Tenders had been advertised and closed before the dismissal of Wyong Council in May. The former council had hoped to award the tender and commence the project before it was merged with Gosford Council.

Three months later, the tender report has still not made it to a Central Coast Council meeting.

The new Federal Member for Dobell, Ms Emma McBride, said: “The Tuggerah Regional Sporting Complex was a project that was pursued by the former Member for

An artist's impression of the Tuggerah Regional Sporting complex

Dobell.

“As the new MP, I am seeking updates on its progress from all agencies involved.

“While there is a need for enhanced sporting facilities on the Coast, I will be working to ensure the needs of the community are best met,” Ms McBride said.

Subscribe now and don’t miss an edition Peninsula Community Access

News

1 Year (25 editions) to Peninsula News $75

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Phone: 4325 7369 - Fax: 4321 0940 120c Erina Street, Gosford To order online

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Credit Card Number: ___________________/___________________/ ______________________________________/

Exp: ______/______ Please complete credit card details or send a cheque or money order payable to

Central Coast Newspapers, PO Box 1056, Gosford NSW 2250

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

Former Federal Member for Dobell, Ms Karen McNamara, had suggested to Wyong Council that federal funding could be available for the facility.

Wyong Council applied for the funding and was successful in attaining a $10 million federal contribution.

Grants awarded under the Stronger Regions Fund come with strict requirements including co-funding of projects to at least match any Federal Government contribution.

Milestones are usually written into funding agreements that grant recipients have to meet.

If the Central Coast Council failed to meet one of those milestones, there would be an expiry date on the $10 million funding.

Any proposal to reallocate the funding to another Central Coast project would need to be the subject of a brand new application to the Stronger

Regions Fund.

The Central Coast Council could not simply request that the $10 million granted for the Tuggerah Regional Sport and Recreation Complex be diverted to another local project.

Unless the council meets all milestones under the current funding agreement, the $10 million would be negated.

Wyong Council acquired 18.28 hectares of the land from the Crown at the southern end fronting Lake Rd in 2014 and proposed to rezone the Pioneer Dairy land to RE1 – Public Recreation, so that part of the land fronting Lake Rd could be developed as the regional sporting facility.

The remainder of the Pioneer Dairy land is Crown Land partly managed by the Tuggerah Lake Reserve Trust and partly by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

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 • David Hill, Long Jetty Hairdressing, Wyong • Jessica Davis of Erina • Bakefresh, Wyong - trading as A1 cleaning services • Frazer Park Pty Ltd formerly trading as The • Rattananporn Big Prawn at Crangan Massage, Wyong Bay • Darren Rucker, • Tony Fitzpatrick Killarney Vale trading as Futuretek Roofing

“Council intends to facilitate the development of this area of land for a regional sporting facility in two stages,” a report to the September 9, 2015 meeting of Wyong Council said.

“Stage 1 would consist of nine playing fields including a premier field and cricket pitches, public amenities, including change rooms, canteen, public toilets and store rooms, as well as bus and car parking.”

When the federal funding was announced in December, Wyong Council said the total project would create 70 new full time positions during construction and 28 after five years of operation.

Stage 2 would require RE1 zoning and would provide a large indoor facility and 3,000 seat grandstand on the main field.

Additional funding from both State and Federal Government would be required for Stage 2 of the development to come to fruition.

The site is the subject of land claims lodged with NSW Crown Lands under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council, dating from 2004.

The claims are current, so Crown Lands or any other body must engage the land council prior to granting any consent for improvements.

The September 2015 report to council said: “Further investigation would be conducted

with future development application assessment requirements (for the playing fields).”

The former Wyong Council’s vision for the complex was to create a dedicated facility capable of hosting large-scale, regional, state and national sporting events.

There are currently 36 sporting complexes in the former Wyong local government area and they are already operating at capacity.

None is at a regional level, other than the netball facility, which limits the areas ability to attract regional sport and recreation events.

Current sporting infrastructure is used by 15,500 seasonal users, 21 local schools and 575 hours per week of hired use.

According to Wyong Council’s key milestones for the project, the Stage 2 design was due to be complete in April and Stage 1 construction complete and fully operational by December 2017, followed

by Stage 2 complete and fully operational in December 2018.

Agenda item, Sep 9, 2016 Wyong Council ordinary meeting Website, Aug 26, 2016 Central Coast Council: Tuggerah Regional Sporting and Recreation Complex Email, Aug 26, 2016 Central Coast Council media Guidelines, Aug 26, 2016 National Stronger Regions Fund, Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development Jackie Pearson, journalist

Let your community know about: • Weddings • Engagements • Special Birthdays • Special Anniversaries • New Born Babies • Special Achievements

Send us a photo and information Details on page 2 - 4325 7369

Sport

P30 P3 30 - Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016

Ourimbah lose one and win one while Lakes also lose a semi final

Daniel Villani wins gold and silver medals at International Open event

urimbah was defeated by Woy Woy in the Premier 2 Major Semi Final in the 2016 Central Coast Rugby Union on Saturday, August 27.

O

Daniel Villani in action

ido Mingara Judo Academy’s 14-year-old Daniel Villani returned from the Melbourne International Open Judo Championships with a gold medal in the Cadet Men’s under-18 years division, and the silver medal in the Junior Men’s under-21s.

K

True to his 2016 form, Villani, who is current Oceania Champion, won each bout in the Cadet (under-15 to under-18) division with a convincing full point (ippon seoi nage) shoulder throw.

The first place gold medal will join a clutch of colour adorning Villani’s shelf from a very successful start to his judo cadetship.

The Junior Men

division presented a greater challenge with more experienced, older and, in some cases stronger, opposition.

Daniel was not daunted, engaging in lengthy bouts and calling up a variety of skills including shime-waza (submission) techniques.

The number one seeded favourite was caught off guard by underestimating Daniel on this first time

T ide Char T FORT DENISON

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

Time - Height(m) Add one hour to the times below when Daylight Saving is in force

0211 0.29 0133 0.31 0052 0.35 0819 1.51 0739 1.47 0655 1.41 TUE 1233 0.49 WED 1320 0.45 THU 1403 0.44 2023 1.78 1944 1.81 1900 1.80 0349 0.37 0318 0.33 0245 0.30 1008 1.55 0933 1.54 0857 1.53 FRI 1444 0.45 SAT 1522 0.47 SUN 1601 0.50 2210 1.58 2135 1.66 2100 1.73 0528 0.54 0452 0.48 0420 0.42 1159 1.51 1119 1.53 1043 1.54 MON 1642 0.55 TUE 1725 0.59 WED 1815 0.64 2325 1.40 2246 1.49 0209 1.18 0102 1.23 0009 1.31 0756 0.70 0656 0.66 0608 0.60 THU 1245 1.48 FRI 1339 1.46 SAT 1442 1.46 2133 0.66 2020 0.69 1912 0.68 0530 1.30 0433 1.22 0325 1.17 1108 0.60 1010 0.67 0904 0.71 SUN 1546 1.50 MON 1645 1.57 TUE 1737 1.66 2330 0.50 2238 0.59

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3

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5

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8

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13

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

encounter and was thrown with full control

by Daniel in a matter of seconds.

Unfortunately, Daniel lost the final bout by momentarily looking up at the referee, a lapse giving an opening to the grappling specialist.

Villani secured an important silver medal, gaining vital National ranking points in this division.

Given his current form, he is sure to be in the sites of the selectors.

He now has to focus and prepare for the last major tournament of 2016, the Sydney International Open in September.

Media release, Aug 16, 2016 Pete Acciari, Kido Mingara Judo Academy

The final score was 13 points to 9 in the match played at Woy Woy Oval, but there was absolutely nothing between the two sides.

The match went right down to the wire.

It was locked up at six points apiece at halftime, and it was the only try of the match, in the second half, that saw Woy Woy home.

Flanker Damien Fleming capped off a great game when he scored the try after a strong run to the line.

Both teams put on a display of structured rugby where defence proved to be the key to the match.

Both teams knew they could have won this clash, but it was the Woy Woy team who go straight through to the

Grand Final in 2 weeks’ time while Ourimbah will meet Avoca Beach on September 3 in the Preliminary Final.

In another close match, The Lakes were also defeated in the President’s Cup Major Semi final by Gosford, by one point (13 to 12).

The match was so even that the win could have gone either way.

In fact, The Lakes did score two tries to one, but the goal kicking of Damien Montgomery got the Gosford team home.

This was a very physical clash and both teams certainly threw everything at each other for the entire match.

Gosford go straight through to their second successive President’s Cup Grand Final while The Lakes and Terrigal

will meet on September 3 to see who gets the chance to take on Gosford in the Grand Final.

In a one-sided game of rugby, Ourimbah defeated Terrigal in the Under 19 Major Semifinal by 45 points to 13.

Ourimbah totally dominated the match from start to finish.

They led by 33 points to 3 at the halftime break and the match was all but over, even then.

Ourimbah Number 8, Rob Peden, was outstanding and crossed for three personal tries.

Terrigal did score two late tries, but the win had already been secured by Ourimbah.

Media release, Aug 27, 2016 Larry Thomson, Aug 27, 2016

$450,000 in prize money up for grabs yong Racing Club’s annual Carlton Mid Wyong Gold Cup Day on September 2, will boast more than $450,000 in prize money.

W

Wyong Race Club CEO, Mr David Jewell, said: “The club has increased stakes for their biggest meeting of the year by $60,000, with the $160,000 Gold Cup and the $120,000 Winning Appliances Mona Lisa Stakes, the two feature races on the programme.”

Champion Sydney trainer, Mr Chris Waller, is expected to have a strong hand again in 2016 after having won five of the last six Gold Cup races.

Club officials are expecting another big crowd in 2016 where ladies can dress for the

Fashions on the Field competition, with over $10,000 in prizes to be won across six categories.

The carnival commenced with Ladies Day on Sunday, August 28.

Media release, Aug 19, 2016 Bronwyn Nicholls, Wyong Race Club

UMINA BAIT & TACKLE

From 6am Weekends and 7.30am Weekdays

Wyong Regional Chronicle - August 30, 2016 - P31 1

Postecoglou applauds Paul Okon signing as Mariners’ head coach

Sport

Brad Pemberton wins Sydney Half Marathon

ormer Socceroos’ captain, Paul Okon, has been appointed the Central Coast Mariners’ Head Coach ahead of Hyundai A-League season 12 and the club has parted ways with John Hatchinson.

F

Okon has signed a two-year-agreement with the Yellow and Navy and will run his first training session with the Mariners on Tuesday at the Central Coast Mariners’ Centre of Excellence in Tuggerah.

With his previous role as the Australian under20s Head Coach for the past four years, 44-yearold Okon has been at the forefront of youth development in a period that has seen 11 of his players go on to make their senior Socceroos debuts.

Having played internationally throughout Europe and the UK, Okon has previous ties with Leeds United, Club Brugge and Middlesbrough.

In 2008, Okon served as an assistant coach to Miron Bleiberg at Gold Coast United in the Hyundai A-League, and was also inducted into the Football Federation Australia Hall of Fame in 2009.

Central Coast Mariners Executive Vice Chairman, Peter Storrie, said he endorsed Okon as the most impressive candidate during the recruitment process.

“The club had over 60 first-class applicants from around the world, which is a testament to the draw power of the Hyundai A-League,” Storrie said.

“The process allowed us to look at one of the club’s most important policies, giving youth a chance, which Paul fits

Peninsula Community Access Edition 393

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

Peninsula Community Access 16 May 2016

Edition 395

Minister for Local Government discretion to determine “any matter or thing requiring determination” referred by the administrator.

In turn, a wide range of matters can be referred to the NSW Office of Local Government for determination, according to the proclamation.

After the initial period the new council will, in accordance with the Local Government Act, be able to make changes to matters such as how the new mayor is elected, changes to wards or changes to councillor numbers.

Joint Regional Regional Planning Panel appointments have been scrapped.

Edition The 394 proclamation gives the Local Government Minister power to hire and fire administrators up until the September 2017 election.

In turn, it gives the administrator has the power to hire and fire the general manager and deputy general manager, should the need arise and within the terms of their employment contracts.

Staff members transferred from Gosford Council to the Central The Peninsula will transferred have a Coast Council were voice Central Coast under onthethesame employment contract of employment.

Council during the next 16 Therethrough will bea committee no onus on months the first elected Central Coast structure, according to Council to stick with the staff council administrator Mr Ian organisational structure set out in The Peninsula (dark purple) is now part of the Gosford West Ward of the new Reynolds.

Central Coast Council. The Gosford West Ward boundaries are shown in purple, the Peninsula marked in dark purple the proclamation.

Mr Reynolds said all the Anything commenced but not of the former Gosford government has been scant,” he I went to school 2017-18 wasn’t local and state government with committees completed by Gosford Council no longer existed and said. three years away from 2016,” he responsibility for urban planning, Council may or may not be completed by had asked for a report from “I received an email from the said. public infrastructure and financing, hethe new council.

Mr Rob Noble by June 8 to mayor,” he said.

“Rate equalisation is going to public policy development, CEOThe codes, plans, strategies what the new council’s The proclamation said that it be a very provocative thing when it rezonings and land development determine and policies of the new council committee structure will be. didn’t apply to rates in the 2016- happens,” he said. processes. are to be, as far as practicable, a Wyong Council’s committees 17 rating year but it did not specify The proclamation said the rating The new council will be composite of the corresponding also been dissolved, Mr a three-year rate freeze, as structure is to be reviewed within run under administration until have codes, plans, strategies and Reynolds said. promised by the NSW Government the first term of the new council September 2017, when the first polices of each of the former “There were stacks and stacks prior to Gosford councillors making following the first election of the local government election for the councils. across the north their decision about whether council. new local government area will be of committees The code of conduct for a new and the south of the new LGA,” Mr to vote in favour of, or against, Mr Ian Reynolds has been held. council is to be the model code said. amalgamation. appointed as the administrator of The number of councillors to be Reynolds in the Act (within the meaning to a register of the Mr Doyle said he was part of a the newly-formed Central Coast elected at that time will be 15 and ofAccording section 440 of the Act) until a of the former Gosford joint delegation that met with NSW Council. the first mayor will be elected by committees code of conduct is adopted by the Council, the council had 29 Premier Mr Mike Baird and Local Mr Reynolds is a local councillors. council in accordance with the Act. Government Minister Mr Paul government consultant based in Local Government (Council The code of meeting practice committees.

Wyong Council had Proclamation a different Amalgamations) Toole late last year.

Castle Hill. to be adopted by the new ve 2016, 12 Mayfi2016 “It wasn’t until I eyeballed the He established Ian Reynolds Central Coast Council is to be structure with 12 committees, parties and 2016 12 Interview, 12 May Minister face-to-face and received and Associates in 2012 after the Wyong Shire Council code groups, two working Doyle, Gosford Council bodies or groups. a couple of assurances that I voted working in the government sector “until it is amended or replaced external Craig Reporter: JackieCouncil Pearson The register of Gosford for amalgamation,” he said. for 30 years. in accordance with the Local committees lists the names of “One of those assurances was Since 1994 he has held a Government Act”. a three-year rates freeze and when range of senior executive roles in The proclamation gives the NSW community representatives, who appear to have been included on the vast majority of the former contains 60 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info council’s committee.

The database of Wyong Council committees lists community Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford representatives on only one Phone: 4325 7369 committee, the Tuggerah Lakes Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 estuary.

E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net It is uncertain which, if any, of the committees of the former Website: www.centralcoastnews.net Gosford Council will be kept.

“We need data first,” Mr Noble said.

“Ian will get the list of committees and review it with senior staff but right now we don’t know what it is

Peninsula residents wanting to buy local seafood from local retailers may soon not be able to do so, as changes to commercial fishing in NSW cut in, according to a Patonga fisherman from a family with more than 40 years in the industry.

The Peninsula is now under the new Central Coast Council.

THIS ISSUE

News

Peninsula Community Access

Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

14 June 2016

Edition 397

Med a re ease Aug 29 2016 Tyson Sco Cen ra Coas Mar ners

Peninsula Community Access

Committee structure to give community a voice

From left: Central Coast Council administrator Mr Ian Reynolds and chief executive officer Mr Rob Noble discuss their plans for the new local government area with media

going to look like,” he said.

Mr Noble’s recommendation to the first Central Coast Council’s meeting stated: “There is a need to urgently review those committees and other groups, and to identify opportunities for improved engagement with the community of the Central Coast.

“That review must carefully consider the current legal status of those committees and bodies, the potential legal consequences of any alteration to the constitution or membership of those committees

and other bodies, and ensure that future committees of the Council are directed to addressing the needs of the whole community of the Central Coast.”

“We are now the Central Coast, we are all part of a big new thing,” Mr Reynolds said.

“Part of my role is to make sure the council reaches out to the whole Central Coast,” he said.

In addition to getting committees up and running, Mr Reynolds said he had already changed the NSW Government’s decision to have all

Central Coast Council meetings held in the former Wyong Council chambers.

“The government proclamation meant all meetings would be held in Wyong and I think that is inappropriate so I changed the rules so we can meet in Gosford and Wyong,” Mr Reynolds said.

“I don’t expect people to come from Patonga to Wyong, for instance, unless they want to come to speak and I would encourage that,” he said.

All Central Coast Council

The Woy Woy rail underpass will be open to traffic by the end of August, according to the latest update from Transport for NSW.

to complete.

The department still has not confirmed the cost of the repairs to the underpass: “We will confirm the costs within the next few weeks, following further planning,” the department

said in a statement issued on May 13.

“This cost will be for the new bridge protection, which will include clearance frames on both road approaches to the bridge, designed to act as early warnings

to high vehicles as well as crash beams on either side of the bridge, designed to protect the bridge from potential vehicle collision,” the statement said.

“The underpass will be open to traffic by the end of August.

Community Commun Commu Comm ommunit mmunit unity ity ty y Access Access

“The safety of our customers and people is our number one priority.”

Media statement, 13 May 2016 Scott Gillespie, Transport for NSW

THIS ISSUE contains 54 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Ms Charlton has announced a $60 million roads package.

She said the Peninsula would get the most benefit from the Roads Rescue Package, with more than 40 roads in Woy Woy,

A member of the Mingara Athletics Club, Mr Pemberton completed the 21.1km circuit in 1:08:45, well ahead of his closest rival, Jonathan Tang, from Sydney University, who finished

From e Sco Wes co

in a time of 1:23:17.

His time was very close to the winner of the overall event, Matthew Cox, running the course in 1:06:26.

No stranger to competing, Mr

$438,5549 will be spent on Ettalong’s talong’s Ferry Rd Wharf

8 August 2016

Community Access

Federal member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks, has promised Peninsula rail commuters free wifi at Woy Woy train station and continuous mobile coverage all the way to Sydney if she is re-elected and the Coalition Government is returned.

“We will invest to upgrade and build telecommunications infrastructure to improve the lives of one in four of the adult workforce who commute long distances by train each day,” Ms Wicks said.

More than 30 kilometres of rail between Wyong and Hornsby are black spots where commuters currently face little or no mobile data coverage, according to Ms Wicks.

The Coalition would invest $12 million to provide continuous intrain mobile coverage along the rail corridor between Wyong and Sydney as well as wifi at each train station.

“This will improve the lives of thousands of Peninsula residents who leave home before dawn each day and return after dark,” said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

“It will make work time more productive, enhance leisure time and help families and friends connect,” Mr Turnbull said.

“And it’s happening because local Member Lucy Wicks, after spending hundreds of hours talking to commuters, told me this was one of the most practical things we could do for families on the Central

Edition 398

$540 540 million in services and $183 million in infrastructure – a total expenditure xpenditure of $724 million across the he Central Coast.

Total income, however, is expected xpected to be only $598 million, with $556 million in council income from om rates and charges and the like, ke, and $42 million from grants.

Budgeted spending has been een focused on roads and drainage, rainage, water and sewerage, waste management, waterways and nd playgrounds and sporting fields, according to the council’s administrator, dministrator, Mr Ian Reynolds.

The budget included funds for road oad and drainage upgrades at Horsfi orsfield Bay and Umina and the upgrade pgrade of Umina’s McEvoy Oval.

The budget and operational plan lan priorities for the Peninsula were set by the former Gosford Council.

Reviews will be undertaken during uring the next 12 months to bring the he plan “into greater alignment o represent the Central Coast to Council”. ouncil”.

“This may result in a change to ctions, projects and programs,” actions, he operational plan said. the It is unknown whether those eviews and changes would result reviews n more or less infrastructure in unding for the Peninsula. funding The progressive construction off Murray St, Booker Bay, is the argest capital works item in the largest perational plan for the Peninsula. operational The work, from Eastern Rd to lathead Rd, will cost the council Flathead 939,379 in 2016-17. $939,379

The budget includes a total of $7.79 million in capital projects for the Peninsula, but only $3.61 million – less than half – comes from council revenue.

The majority comes from Coast,” he said. government grants.

The Federal Minister for Outside the Peninsula, the Communications, Mr Mitch council contributes moreFifield, than said understood $3.35the for Coalition every dollar of grant that reliable coverage was money spentmobile on capital projects. crucial productivity.

Thefor council contribution to “The Coalition understands Peninsula projects represents less the mobile thanimportance one per centofofreliable its consolidated coverage commuters income ofso $556 million. can get workAtdone and stay in the touch with the same time, council family or the office,” Mr Fifield said. expects Peninsula ratepayers will Wicks saidinthe commitment beMs paying more rates, with many was a game-changer paying an increase which greaterwould than directly benefi t thousands inflation (see separate report). of people day.budget does not Theevery council “Thisanticipated is a major, innovative show income from the commitment Peninsula,. from the Turnbull Government mean more However,which if the will Peninsula pays ofrates, our charges hard-working commuters and other council can stay at connected for longer on income the average per capita the commute, be ratedaily for the council which area, can it would abefourcontributing to five hour$76 round trip toto million Sydney Newcastle,” Mrs Wicks council or coffers. said.The 2016-17 budget and The $12 plan million operational werecommitment adopted at was expected togeneral leverage an an extraordinary meeting additional $4 million of the council held investment at Wyong from thechambers NSW Government, council on June 29. Ms Wicks Thesaid. plan and budget will deliver There would be an expression of interest process for mobile THIS ISSUE contains ainss network providers to bid for the funding.

“A re-elected Turnbull Coalition will work with the NSW Government to provide in-kind assistance to deliver the wifi and improved mobile coverage, facilitating access to land along the rail corridor and helping facilitate planning approvals for new infrastructure,” Ms Wicks said.

roads that Labor funded. ro “Lucy Wicks has not listened to the concerns of locals about the th state of their roads and only came st up with $2.75 million for Peninsula ro roads,” she added.

According to Ms Charlton, the co commitment by Labor recognised the neglect of important issues that the people of the Peninsula have endured at the hands of successive Liberal representatives at local, state and federal levels.

“Labor will fix what has now

become a patchwork of badly maintained roads,” Ms Charlton said.

“This significant investment will keep motorists, cyclists and pedestrians safe.

“The flood-prone Peninsula is beset by a backlog of legacy roadworks further exacerbating safety problems and congestion in the area.

“These issues must be fixed and only Labor will take action on the Peninsula to grow jobs and the

A total of $543,707 will be spent on the ongoing Cockle Bay sewerage project. sewe Wharf safety improvement Wh works will be undertaken at Ferry Wharf in Ettalong including the Rd W replacement of deck, pylons and replac fenders for $438,549. fende The council will improve Th sporting field drainage at Rogers sporti Park ground 2 and 3 in Woy Woy which will cost $400,000.

Another capital works project An earmarked for the Peninsula will earma the final capping of the Woy be th Woy ttip external cells with clay or geo-textile to meet Environment geo-te Protection Authority requirements Prote at a ccost of $350,000.

Works will also be undertaken Wo Mt Ettalong Rd from Sylvania on M Rd towards Berrina Crescent for a total of $420,853, of which $229,853 will come from council $229, coffers. coffer The McEvoy Oval upgrade is Th another large Peninsula capital anoth works project. will include the replacement It w of the amenities building, impro improvements to the car park and sporti sporting field surface.

Th The total cost will be $756,000 with $ $220,000 from council funding and $536,000 from the federal gover government.

Th The $1 million progressive recon reconstruction of Umina’s Lone Pine Ave will be advanced with $180, $180,000 of council funds spent on the p project between Haynes Ave and O Ocean Beach Rd. An Another $180,000 will be spent

on improvements to Springwood St, Umina, between Albion St and Lagoon St. The progressive reconstruction of the intersection at Woy Woy Rd and Banyo Close Horsfield Bay will continue.

The total project cost is $810,000 with $675,000 from Roads to Recovery government funding and council budgeting $135,000.

In other measures for the Peninsula, the operational plan undertakes to identify an alternative management and operations plan for the Peninsula Theatre to increase future usage and community engagement.

The performance measure is that the Peninsula Theatre will have improved business operations and increased usage by June 2017.

A disability inclusion action plan is also to be developed by the end of 2016-17 along with a Positive Aging Plan and an Aboriginal Development and Reconciliation Plan implemented to facilitate the former Gosford Council’s Aboriginal Employment Strategy.

The council also expects to achieve 85 per cent direct expense recovery from the Peninsula Leisure Centre while providing low-cost services and programs to the community.

It also aims for 75 per cent of leisure centre users to be satisfied in the level of service and quality of facilities.

The Patonga Caravan and Camping area is to be managed

Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

and maintained to meet the NSW Crown Lands requirement of a 30 per cent net profit by June 30 each year.

The Brisbane Water Floodplain Risk Management Plan Action Plan should be completed by December 1, according to the operational plan.

The current first phase of the Central Coast Council is the “merger period” which will end when councillors are elected in September 2017, the operational said.

Aplan commercial fisher from During the merger period the Umina has been apprehended Reynolds, and inadministrator, possessionMr of illegallychief lobster executive cer, Mr Rob taken andoffimulloway.

Noble, are expectedof toPrimary ensure NSW Department that the council is able to maintain Industries Fisheries acting seamless service to the compliance director,delivery Mr Tony community.

Andrews, said the Central Coast alsoby expected teamThey was are joined Statewideto embrace opportunities to improve Operations and Investigations services and infrastructure Group officers in June in while an bringing together and down buildingonon operation to crack the strengths of staff, systems, compliance within the “estuary strategies and off structures. general fishery” Patonga.

The 36-year-old community, commercial staff and “The other partners supposed fisherman was found are in possession to be engaged in planning and of 44 live Eastern Rock Lobsters implementing change during the and 12 prohibited size mulloway,” period Mrmerger Andrews said.through information and “Heinvolvement. also admitted to oversetting plan aims to ensure his The meshing nets, which “ethical, is a open and offence accountable separate as governance Estuary and administration.

General Fishers are prohibited

Commercial fisher apprehended with illegal catch

unlawful use of a net or trap,” Mr Andrews said.

The fisherman was apprehended and the Eastern Rock Lobsters were returned to the water by officers.

Under the Fisheries Management Act 1994, the fisherman faces maximum penalties of between six months and 10 years imprisonment and up to $44,000 in fines.

“Stealing fish and black marketing, as well as damage to fish habitats are serious problems that can impact on the sustainability of our fish stocks across NSW. “We encourage anyone who sees illegal fishing activity to report it to their nearest Fisheries office, phone our hotline or make an online report,” said Mr Andrews.

Commercial fishers in the Operational Plan 2016-17 region were reminded to adhere to from retainingCentral Eastern Rock Coast Council the fishing regulations for Eastern Lobster caught in meshing nets,” Reporter: Jackie Pearson Rock Lobsters and estuary fish he said.

Photos: Noel Fisher “This fisherman has breached species.

Media release, 19 Jul 2016 rates rise five regulations of Peninsula the Act, including Mel Hamling, NSW Department - Page possessing illegallyexpected taken fish and 4 of Primary Industries

68 articles arrtiicle es - Read Read d more mo news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

Media release, 23 Jun 2016, Tim Sowden, Office of Lucy Wicks

economy, to improve the efficient movement of small business, to meet tourist expectations, boost the local economy, and keep our pedestrians moving safely around our beautiful suburbs.

“Only Labor is listening to the people of Robertson to make investments that put people first,” Ms Charlton concluded.

Media release, 21 Jun 2016 Rhys Zorro, Australian Labor Party

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

www.centralcoastnewspapers.com

The Peninsula is becoming the granny flat capital of the Central Coast, according to Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales.

$939,379 will be spent on improving Murray St, Booker Bay

27 June 2016

The Peninsula will receive less than five per cent of the new Central Coast Council budget for capital expenditure, despite representing 15 per cent of the council’s population.

Wicks promises continuous mobile coverage on our trains

Seized Eastern Rock Lobsters

did have its down side, according to Mr Wales.

It was possible to construct a granny plan without lodging a development application with council under State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental At the same time, during the Housing) 2009. past two years, it has experienced By providing a granny flat that a medium density development would be deemed to be affordable slowdown, he said.

25 July 2016 housing, all that was required Mr Wales said onerous medium- was a complying development density development control plans certificate, which meant no council were the reason for the trend. involvement.

He said the evidence was that The need for a development council had reported no increase application could be triggered if in Section 94 contributions during the person building the granny flat that period. needed to remove a tree or put in “Most unit developments on the drainage, Mr Wales said.

Peninsula are from older approvals The granny flat tenants put before the Development Control pressure on local roads, town Plans were changed for medium centres, infrastructure and density requirements,” Mr Wales amenities but the development “did said. not put a single cent into council He said he believed investors coffers”, he said. were finding it more lucrative to A granny flat was not rated build granny flats than to build separately, the council did not units for sale. earn any Section 94 contributions According to Mr Wales, granny from its development and the New safety warnings are difficult to miss when using the rail underpass flats on the Peninsula were developer did not have to provide generating investment returns of any parking, he said. between five and six per cent.

As a snapshot, applications for In most locations a home on the 20 granny flats on the Peninsula Peninsula with a granny flat would were determined during July 2016. achieve a sale price of around That’s around 240 additional $800,000, Mr Wales said. dwellings on the Peninsula per High demand for rental year that did not pay rates. properties made it possible to If council was to introduce a purchase a granny fl at, have it The Bullion St car park Section 94 contribution of $5000 constructed and tenanted within per granny flat, they would earn 10 weeks. $1.2 million per year to reinvest in The investment outlay for an Peninsula infrastructure.

Anyone towing a caravan, The Woy Woy Road rail metre height restriction bars on attractive granny flat would be carrying oversized objects on roof Interview, 3 Aug 2016 underpass re-opened on both sides of the underpass. between $120,000 and $140,000 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Central Coast Council was racks or driving a truck must use August 1, following the and weekly rentals can vary from Chamber of Commerce putting the finishing touches on an alternate route.

Reporter: Jackie Pearson completion of emergency Sydney Trains repair works over $300 to $450 per week.

Sydney Trains closed the repair works by Sydney Weekly rental income on a last weekend (August 6-7) by underpass in April after a large Peninsula News has asked council Trains over the last three Peninsula investment property with installing median strips on the truck attempted to use it and for verification of the level of region’s population by 80,000 ain granny the option doing the whole months. flat inof the back gardenof the became wedged underneath one approaches to the underpass.

Section 94 contributions and two decades,” he said. underground and then Sydney Trains finished couldcar be parking as high as $800 – a much The council has asked motorists of the previous height restriction medium density development According to Mr Martin, 40 per three handsome towers betterbuilding return than currently on offer applications and will report its constructing protection columns to be aware that the underpass’ bars. cent of those new residents will thedeposits site,” heorsaid. from on term shares.

Media release, 1 Aug 2016 response in the next edition. around the rail bridge’s support height limit has been reduced to want to live on the Peninsula, in The “Or they may decideflats to put structures and installing new, 2.5 2.5 metres. popularity of granny Ron Noble, Central Coast Council the area between Umina and Woy parking in one area and then build Woy. two mixed use towers towards the That is one of the reasons why West St THIS end of the land.” contains 69 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info ISSUE the Gosford Local Environment The closing date for expressions Plan of 2014 reviewed all zoning, of interest is September 16, to including in town centres and give prospective purchasers the Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford CBDs, to allow mixed use. opportunity to view the land, work Phone: 4325 7369 In the town centres of Umina, out affordability and work with Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 Ettalong and Woy Woy, this could planning consultants and council E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net result in in-fill developments representatives to put a proposal that included a ground floor of forward.

Website: www.centralcoastnews.net Mr Martin said he was very commercial and retail premises with up to five storeys of residential optimistic about the current attitude of the new Central Coast Council. accommodation above, he said.

“They are displaying a very According to Mr Martin, the Bullion St car park is one of the futuristic attitude that is a 100 only consolidated pieces of land degree turn around on what we in the Umina CBD that could had five or 10 years ago.

“They are starting to speak the accommodate a larger mixed-use right language. development.

“The way the council is “When you look around the Umina CBD, just about all of the approaching the future is that allotments are the regular 560 we have got to move forward square metre blocks so you can’t to mobilise all centres on the get the height to build anything Peninsula.

“We can’t be dogmatic and lofty around that area,” he said.

Even though the Bullion St land the council is wanting to see nice includes 10 individual titles, Mr developments for the area,” he Martin said the council’s intention said.

Website, 14 Jul 2016 was to sell it as one parcel to Realcommercial.com.au accommodate a development Interview, 19 Jul 2016 with the potential to “revitalise the Jim martin, Wilsons Real Umina CBD”.

Estate Woy Woy “Essentially the developer has Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Rail underpass re-opened

For sale: Bullion Stt car park The Bullion St car park in Umina is for sale.

Expressions of interest have been called for the 0.53 hectares of land between Bullion St and Alfred St. Described by Wilsons Estate Agency at Woy Woy as: “A landmark opportunity in the Umina CBD”, the land is zoned B2 for “mixed use” which means it can be developed for a mix of commercial and residential purposes under the 2014 Gosford Local Environment Plan.

Wilsons selling agent Mr Jim Martin said the council had the community’s interests at heart by putting a “positive covenant” on the land to ensure that any new development included 160 public car spaces.

Mr Martin said the impetus behind council’s decision to sell the land for development was coming from the NSW Government’s vision for the Central Coast over the next 20 years.

“The NSW Department of Planning released a document about the rapid increase in population that is going to occur between Sydney and Newcastle over the next 20 years,” Mr Martin said.

“It will be one of the most popular residential corridors in Australia where people will want to live and that will increase the

THIS ISSUE contains 69 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford Phone: 4325 7369 Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net Website: www.centralcoastnews.net

A free e nnewspaper ewsp ew sp pap a er w with itithh in in-depth de Wyong Local Government Area news!

Pemberton, who suffers Spina Bifida, also competes in the Bay to Bay each year.

Article, Aug 29, 2016 Noel Fisher, photo journalist

2016 Aus ra an O ymp c eam w h Brad Pember on and Dav d Saad rom Grea er Bank Ha Mara hon sponsor

Peninsula News ews Council News Ne s uncil milks m Peninsula

Elec Election E Elect le ecti ction ctio ion n promises promi ttabulated tab ta abu bu b u ulated

Umina, Ettalong and Booker Bay funded under a Labor Government compared with the Liberal’s commitment of $2.75 million for just three roads: one in Umina and two in Booker Bay. “This announcement is proof of Labor’s commitment to not only improving infrastructure on the Peninsula but also creating jobs to drive the economy for the next generation,” Ms Charlton said.

“In three years, all the Liberals have done is cut the ribbon on

B

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Edition 399

Labor bor prom promises pr m major infrastructure upgrades ma The Peninsula could see major infrastructure upgrades if Labor was elected to government, to Labor’s according Candidate for Robertson, Ms Anne Charlton.

rad Pemberton, aged 15 from Rocky Point, took out first place in the 2016 Sydney Half Marathon wheelchair category at Olympic Park on August 28.

11 July 2016

Reporter: Jackie Pearson

Underpass open by September, says ys dept.

Previously, it had stated the work could take up to six months

Peninsula Penin Pen P nsu sula

Brad Pember on rom Rocky Po n

Peninsula becoming ‘granny flat capital’, says Chamber

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scot MacDonald, has said the changes would support local fishers and ensure the supply of locally caught, high quality seafood continued into the future.

However, fisherman Mr Dane Van Der Neut said the opposite was true and he believed the changes could be the death knell Phone Pho 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940 for local operators.

He said at least four of six operators in Patonga were under threat.

Mr Van Der Neut said he had Patonga commercial fisherman Mr Dane Van Der Neut on Broken Bay been fishing for a living for 10 years about the amount of fish we take be established to determine how day. and his father had been working in “Then they’ve redistributed the out of the ocean. many boats should be left fishing,” the industry out of Patonga for over efforts of those active fishers in a “That is the worst type of he said.

40 years.

“There are different issues with Communist way over all the shares management we can do.

“He spent the past three in a share class so now the active “The public does not understand different governments,” he said. decades fighting for his job through “Labor Governments are fisher’s shares have a lot less that every time you have a shower, consecutive governments,” he meetings will be audio recorded predominantly green, whereas the value,” he said. wash up, wash clothes that have said. and the public will be able to Liberal and National Governments Mr Van Der Neut uses the micro plastics in them, that all goes Mr Van Der Neut said the access those recordings using the are more about corporatising, example of a five-member family in the drain and into fish habitat so latest NSW Government reform Libe and incumbent Federal Lucy Wicks, Liberal Government Information Public removing the smaller operators who operated as a combine. while we are restricting what we package was about corporatising Memb for Robertson Member Access Act (GIPA).

Their combined catch in the last can take out of the water we are who support the local communities the industry and targeting export Mr Reynolds is also moving and turning them into larger year was 25 tonne of mud crabs. still impacting on fish productivity. markets. ahead with the creation of a Local businesses, moving them into Under the new rules their quota “Commercial fishing is one of Mr MacDonald said the key Representation Committee that will larger ports and starting to work on has been capped at 1400kg per the only user groups of the marine Promises 2016 changes would see the NSW be made up of former councillors export deals.” fisher or a combined quote of environment that have a fishery Candidates Government investing in fishing from Wyong and Gosford as According to Mr Van Der Neut, seven tonne which means their management strategy underpinned businesses and providing local A nne Char Anne Charlton Lucy Wicks another way of ensuring all the latest NSW Government business is no longer sustainable. by environmental impact studies. fishers with the tools to better communities within the new LGA reforms “were asked for by a If that family is forced to sell its “We’ve got all that.

Labor Liberal manage their business and ensure have a voice.

“We also have the tick of minority group in the industry who shares and exit the industry, there’s what is caught continues to be $60 $2.75 million $60 million* millio “I have already spoken with wanted to link their shares to the nothing stopping someone with a sustainability. done so sustainably. all the councillors bar one,” Mr amount they could catch. latent endorsement from buying up “The only thing we don’t have $ 2.5 5 millio $2.5 million “The changes will provide more Reynolds said.

“Some of that minority group their shares and then profiting from the tick for is export which is a certainty and support for fishers $ 2 millio $2 million “The best way to keep them had good intentions, they wanted the demise of the active fishers. good thing from my point of view to invest in their businesses, involved is to give them a seat at to buy more shares and run more “At this point of time, we import because it keeps seafood in the $500,000 $ 50 00,00 and cement the future of the the table,” he said.

87 per cent of the fish products local community.” traps or more nets. commercial fishing industry for $1.2 million** Mr Noble said the NSW According to Mr Van Der Neut “Ultimately what happened we eat but I will be shocked if in years to come,” he said.

Government had provided the is the process got hijacked by a 10 years’ time you will be able to around six commercial fishers are $60 million# Mr Van Der Neut, who fishes administrator with a template terms smaller minority group who had purchase locally caught seafood. still operating out of Patonga and Hawkesbury River squid and of reference for the establishment been buying up shares for years.”

“This sort of reform has already most are sole traders.

Broken Bay school prawns, said of the Local Representation “My dad got shares a long time He said the industry was now happened in the lobster industry $12 million^ estuary prawn trawl fishers have Committee and that Mr Reynolds split between active fishers and in NSW where you already have ago because he was in business been given until July 2017 to raise was expected to make a decision “latent endorsements” who may catch shares linked to a quota. pre-dating any reform. their minimum shareholding to 200 at the next council meeting about hold a certain class of shares “I have already read reports “With most businesses you can *Funding nding ng to o be shared be between b betwee Robertso Robertson Robe ertso n an and nd Dobe Dob Dobell b ell ll but b predominantly Roberts Robertson Media release, 31 May 2016 or they will not be able to access the terms for the committee. (such as for crab pots) but are not from places like Columbia and make an educated gamble on the Hannah Eves, offiding ceng offor Umin their fisheries.

Umina statewide ** Unspecified share of funding fund Um U ina from in m statew state atewide ewide ew e allocation All former councillors have been actively fishing. smaller fishers are forced out of the business, on what you are buying, Scot MacDonald “There is no guarantee that Peninsula # Unspecified share are of funding fund2016forr Pen insula in nsula a fro from statew sstatewide ew wide allocation w given written notice that they will He said the NSW Government industry through increased prices there are no guarantees out of this.

Interview, 7 Jun those shares will be available. be invited to express interest in has used the catch history of active and after that it gets consolidated.

“It is just a gamble that we will Derbetween Neut, Woy ^ Dane To be eVan sshared all a Woy Central Centra Coa Ce Coast C st train rain ain sta stations at ns from Woy Woy to Wyong a and all mobile blackspots along “We have been given no Reporter: Jackie Pearson being part of the committee.

“When governments start to talk be buying more or less guaranteed fishermen to come up with its caps rrail ail corridor rid guarantee of any access at all However, Mr Reynolds would on kilos allowed to be caught per about sustainability we are talking access until 2019 and in 2019 because, in 2019, a committee will not comment on the number of positions available.

THIS ISSUE contains 59 articles - Read more news items for this issue at www.peninsulanews.info “Yes, we are a new council, but there are issues north and south that have a history with them Office: 120c Erina Street, Gosford and the former councillors will Phone: 4325 7369 still have their contacts within the Mail: PO Box 1056, Gosford 2250 Both (above) lists Our election coverage, including (above ove) ve) lis ists ts pledges made by th L Liberal and nd La Labor (ab community,” Mr Reynolds said.

E-mail: editorial@centralcoastnews.net candidate profiles, general both major ma maj ajor or parties o p since the ca Parties ies have been making mak a “The purpose of the committee information about the Robertson cti wa was ccalled. a alled. in Website: www.centralcoastnews.netpromises tto spend is to get feedback,” he said. d money money election allows electorate, the location of polling The table all lows readers a list to el Interviews, 26 May 2016 on key projects for fo f the booths as well as information from kkeep track of w which promises have bo Ian Reynolds, Central Coast Council Peninsula during duri the elec election Rob Noble, Central Coast Council the parties begins on page 8. been kept byy the winning party th b campaign. p g Central Coast Council agenda after th the he electio ctio io on. election.

The election The e promise table item 3.5, 25 May 2016

News Ne s Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

we may have to do it all over again and the difference will be the Government in 2019 won’t need new regulations to make the changes, they will already be in place.”

“My belief is it is all about export and I feel what is happening is other countries overseas want our product to be on their tables and I don’t blame them because we have the best seafood.

“But the consumer is going to lose if they don’t wake up and do something about it.

“Commercial fishermen per electorate are in minute numbers so we don’t stand a chance politically so we need to tell the consumers to tell their MPs to look after our seafood.

Edition dition ition 396 3 6 “In 2017 we won’t know how many commercial fishers will be endorsed because we don’t know how many shares are available.

“There are only two fishers in Patonga as we speak with enough shares.

“So if the shares are available we might see those existing fishers continue, that is of course if they can access the funds to buy those shares because what this will do is increase the share price beyond our range.”

According to Mr MacDonald, Anne e Charlton, Charlton C candidate andidate for f r Robe Ro Robertson obe ertson rtson the new program will giveLabor fishers the option to grow their business or choose to exit the industry “through a range of supportive measures Pen Peninsula ninsula Election ninsula E ec Ele ecttion including: low-rate loans; grants Promise m seor for independent for retraining business advice; subsidies for buyers and sellers of shares; or fixed payments of $20,000 for fishing business Road upgrades oad upg upgbuyouts.” rrades rade ade The NSW Government has also gits e 2cap offon Ettalon Etta tta tmanagement g For Foreshore eshore e Project Pro ojectt Stage Stag Sta Ettalong extended fees. Satellite e Primary Care a faci ffacility facility Assistance is also available for Scoping Scopi Scopin oping g study tudy Woy y Woy Wo W to M1 M llin linkk fishing cooperatives.

The NSW will and na youth y Government h programs prog programs ams and PCYC PC Umina also invest $400,000 as part of ackspot ot Fundin Killc Ki care Blackspot a campaign to Funding promoteg Killcare NSW caught seafood as sustainable Wii Fi at train stations and statio i an nd d continuous continuou con uss mobile mo m bile mob and fresh and work with industry e for com Sydn Sydney ey coverage commute to implement an originlabellinge to Sydney scheme forncooked seafood across ootnotes Footnotes: the state.

Pho os Noe F sher

e Frkeeone!

News Phone 4325 7369 Fax 4321 0940

Local fishing operators may close with law changes

Peninsula comes under Central Coast Council Gosford Council no longer exists.

The change took place on Thursday, May 12, with a proclaimation by NSW Governor General David Hurley.

The new council will be run under administration by Mr Ian Reynolds.

The interim general manager is Mr Rob Noble, acting CEO of Wyong Council.

Gosford Council chief Mr Paul Anderson has been named his deputy.

The Peninsula will become part of the Gosford West Ward which will remain unrepresented until elections in September next year.

The Gosford West Ward covers the area from the northern side of the Hawkesbury River in the south to Buckety in the north-west.

It includes communities as diverse as Mangrove Mountain, Gunderman, Peats Ridge and the Gosford CBD. The three councillors who will eventually represent the Gosford West Ward will be required to live in the Ward.

Areas to the north of the Rip Bridge will be included in the Gosford East Ward as the southern shore of Brisbane Water is the boundary for Gosford West.

The Gosford West Ward is, geographically, the largest of the five wards that will make up the new Central Coast Council.

Under the Local Government (Council Amalgamations) Proclamation 2016, Gosford City Council ceased to exist and Gosford with Wyong Shire Council areas were amalgamated to form the Central Coast Council.

Elected councillors reported different interpretations of whether they had been stood aside or sacked.

Former Gosford deputy mayor, Mr Craig Doyle, said he believed all councillors, including the former Gosford mayor, Mr Lawrie McKinna, had been sacked.

“I can’t even say I received a bluey in the mail,” Mr Doyle said.

“The information we have received from the Minister and the

and play football again.

“The biggest enjoyment I’ve had over the past four and a half years is seeing young players develop, and this is something I plan to do at the Mariners.”

Head Coach of the Caltex Socceroos, Ange Postecoglou, said it was important to develop young coaches in the Hyundai A-League.

“I’m not only a big believer in Australian players, but also Australian coaches, and it is important that as we grow as a football nation, we give opportunity to young coaches in the Hyundai A-League and I applaud Central Coast for considering a few young Australian coaches for the role ” Postecoglou said “Paul is a good young coach who has spent time in the National Team system and deserves a chance to grow as a coach in the Hyundai A-League Hours after announcing Okon’s appointment the Central Coast Mariners also announced they wer parting ways with assistant coach and long-term player John Hutchinson “I have been really happy and grateful to be part of the Central Coast Mariners for the past 12 years it’s something I will treasure for a long time ” Hutchinson said

perfectly.

“Paul is dedicated to fan engagement and installing a brand of exciting football that will bring more fans to Central Coast Stadium.”

Okon spoke about his determination to energise the Central Coast Mariners’ supporters and what he brings to the table as the club’s new Head Coach.

“We want to give our supporters, the people who have been loyal to this club, a reason to keep coming back to Central Coast Stadium, and we want to give new people a reason to come and watch this team play football,” Okon said.

“After a disappointing season, we want to grow our supporter base, and the only way we can do that is by playing a brand of football that’s going to excite people and get people talking about our club again.”

Following the Central Coast Mariners’ disappointing run, Okon said he was hoping to get the team back to winning football games.

“The Mariners have been one of the most successful clubs in the history of the Hyundai A-League, the last two seasons have been very challenging for the club, but the opportunity to work with a club that has a really patriotic following is really exciting.

“I want to make Central Coast Stadium a difficult place to come

WAR MEMORABILIA WANTED

27 AUGUST - 11 SEPTEMBER

WWW.YARRAMALONGVALLEYSPRINGFESTIVAL.COM.AU Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/YarramalongSpringFestival www.facebook.com/Wyong-Town-Centre

For all festival events inquiries Wyong Regional Chamber of Commerce 0243511762 manager@wyongchamber.com.au

PROGRAMME OF EVENTS FOR THE FESTIVAL Scarecrow Competition - Sat 27 Aug to Sun 11 Sept Enjoy a drive through the valley & expect to be surprised by the fascinating roadside creations.

Contact Paul 43561502 Pastures field day & Cattle Competition - Sat 27 Aug Enter your best 5 commercial cows & calves or steers & Heifers to win the "Best Butt" trophy & many more terrific prizes. See results of our pastures trial & catch up with like-minded producers at the end of tour BBQ. Contact Time 0406360588 or email tim.eyes@hotmail.com A service of thanksgiving - Sun 28 Aug 11am For the pets & animals of the Valley & those who care for them. All creatures

SCARECROW COMPETITION & ROADSIDE EXHIBITION

Wyong Orchid Show - Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sept Huge Orchid displays. Orchids for sale from vendors, potting demos and more.

The Valley Art Show - Sat 3 & Sun 4 Sat 9am to 4pm. Sun 9am to 3pm.

Wyong Race Club.

Sept The work of local artists, sculptures & Contact George 43442495 quilts on display & for sale. Sausage sizzle & refreshments. Wine tasting- Yarramalong Spring Show Sun 11 Sept 9am to 4pm Robert Oakley Wines.

Jack Gear Reserve Yarramalong.

Wyong Creek Hall Contact Lesley 0409675294 Contact Di Salmon 43561502 Fire Brigade Trivia Night - Sat 3 Sept Springbake Competition - Sun 11 Tickets available at the shop.

Sept Yarramalong Hall.

Amateur baking competition. All ages Contact Julie 43561178 welcome.

Entries open 8.30am. Open judging Craft Extravaganza - Sun 4 Sept Crafts displays & demos. Stalls available. 10am Wyong Creek Hall.

Kids activities. 10am to 3pm Contact Mary-Anne 43511762 Yarramalong Hall.

Contact Cherie 43561196 great & small are invited to attend.

St Barnabas Church Contact Jackie 43561895

YARRAMALONG VALEY SPRING SHOW 11th September - 9am - 4pm

The annual festival invites the community to create a scarecrow, and people have until Sunday 11th Sept to go online and vote for their favourite creation.

Independent judges wi;; also pick the best traditional, humorous and creative categories, with the winners aanounced at the Yarramalong Spring Festival.

The "crows" are on display along Yarramalong Cedars Brush and Ravensdale Roads Take a drive and see the "crows"

Jack Gear Reserve, Linga Lona Road Adult entry $5 - C Children hild hi ldre renn ac re acco accompanied comp co mppaannied ieed by an adult free

Wood Chop Competition - 11am Farm Animal Nursery, Variety Market Food Stalls & BBQ, Pet & Produce Competitions - 2pm, Wife Carrying Competition - 11.30am, Billy Boiling Competition - 10am, Fencing Competition, Live Music & Dancing all day, Polish Dancers, Classic Car Display, Kids Puppet Show, Activity Tent, Children’s Amusements, FREE Jumping Castle, Vintage tractors

WYONG SPRING TIME ORCHID SHOW COMPETITION AND EXHIBITION

10 - 11 September Saturday 9am - 4pm Sunday 9am - 3pm Wyong Race Club - Entry $2 Huge Orchid Displays, Potting demonstrations, Orchid Vendors, Cake decorating display, Honey display, Wood turning display All inquiries 43442495

Wyong Show Horse Program - Sun 18 Sept Hosted by The Hunter Show Horse Association.

Morisset Showground.

SPRING BAKE COMPETITION Entry is only open to AMATEUR cooks of any age including divisions for Under 13 and Under 18 Learn the secrets of award winning baking from our open judging process, where the audience will be able to hear the reasons for selecting the winning entries. The judging will commence at 10am and all are welcome to attend and learn the secrets of award winning entries.

Australian Springtime Festival will offer half of all exhibits for sale to the public, with the proceeds of the sales being donated to Wyong Creek Hall Restoration fund.

Entries Open: 8.30 am, Sunday 11 September 2016 Entries Close: 9.30 am, Sunday, 11 September 2016 Exhibit Delivery: Wyong Creek Hall Exhibit Judging From 10am Sunday, 11 September Entry Fee: All Classes $1.00 Prize Cards: Will be issued only in accordance with Judges Awards Ribbons: 1st and 2nd place ribbons will be awarded for all Classes along with Highly Commended ribbon Judge/s reserve the right not to award prize where exhibit/s is not deemed worthy Masterfood Product Hampers will be provided to the highest point scorer in section.

More information and entry forms are available by contacting the Cookery Steward of the competition at springbake@outlook.com or www.yarramalongvalleyspringfestival.com.au/ spring-festival-events/spring-bake/

The 20th Annual Gathering of the Clans will be held at Norah Head on September 3.

The Gathering was originally conceived as part of the celebration of the Wyong Shire’s 50 Year Jubilee.

The first Gathering was held in 1996 and held at Harry Moore Oval, Toukley.

It was a two-day Gathering with Highland Games, Scottish dancing, stalls, pipe and drum bands and more.

Over the years the Scottish flavours and sounds have evolved into the festival that it is today, with some of the old traditional customs being revived and presented in a modern theme.

The gathering is now only held for one day, usually the first Saturday in September at the Norah Head Sports Ground, Norah Head.

The event continues to enjoy the support of Central Coast Council, Greater Toukley Vision, Norah Head Sporties Club, Brackets and Jam Central Coast Inc, local businesses, residents and community groups, this iconic event will be held at the Norah Head Sports Oval.

Parade of the Tartans The Parade of the Tartans begins at 9:45am at Lawson Lane and ends in

front of the Castle Façade where a mass pipe band display opens the day’s celebrations.

The bands will perform throughout the day and at the closing ceremony.

The opening ceremony will include a blessing of the tartans and anyone who has a family tartan is encouraged to take it along to hold during the blessing.

The 42nd Royal Highland Regiment Australia (1814) starts the parade of tartans with a shot from one of their muskets and escorts Chieftain, Mr David Harris, to the castle.

The Highland Regiment will display a camp setup to show how they lived and protected Scotland’s borders in 1814.

They also have a collection of Dental Tools that were used in 1814 and can provide information about the use of each tool.

Tribute The 2016 opening ceremony will include a tribute to Matriarch Ms Kathy Marvel OAM, who passed away earlier this year.

Without Ms Marvel the annual Gathering of the Clans would not have made it to the event it has become today.

Kathy’s son, Neil, will present the Ken & Kathy Marvel Award Trophy to the winner of the Best Traditional Pipe Band on the day.

E ntertainment Entertainment Throughout the day there will be live entertainment, including pipe band performances and medieval displays.

Many craft stalls will showcase Scottish and local handicrafts.

Clan stalls will also be present for those who would like to find out about their Scottish heritage.

Entertainment will also include activities for the lads and lasses, with food and drinks from many cultures available at the Oval.

The ladies and gentlemen from Danelaw Medieval Re-enactment group will be there with the Little Knights School teaching the kiddies what it is like to be a knight in days of olde.

They will have a camp set up with shields, swords, axes and many other objects useful for protection from any predators lurking in the shadows somewhere.

It’s never clear where those predators might be or when an attack is imminent as will be shown throughout the day.

Highland Games The Traditional Highland Games, where men will compete to show their strength and agility in six different events over the day will include the Caber Toss.

The Chieftain will then pick the

strongest and bravest to protect his land and the people who lived on it.

Under the Kilt Have you ever wondered what is under the boys’ kilts?

Watch the Highland Games Competition to find out while the boys toss the caber, wrestle with a large log and an opponent.

This year’s event includes the Stones of Manhood to sort the boys from the men.

This will be the fourth year to have women competing in The Games.

The female athletes have recently competed in Scotland along with the male athletes and are definitely worth watching as they compete for trophies and prize money.

There will also be audience participation throughout the day, so attendees can see how far they can toss the caber or test their manhood with the Stones.

The Highland Muscle boys and girls are only too willing to demonstrate how it is done.

N ational D ancing National Dancing Titles Central Coast Highland Dancing will present the Inaugural Scottish National Dancing Titles.

To be held during the Gathering of the Clans in Norah Head, the Scottish National Dancing Titles will seek the dancers best depicting the spirit of Scottish National Dancing.

Similar to Highland Dancing, the dances depict a traditional story and are from the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing Technique.

This competition has dancers who will have competed in Scotland in August and they will fly back the Australia to compete again for trophies and cash prizes at the Gathering of the Clans.

The Titles will be presented by Mr Doug McFarlane.

Stall and parade information and applications are now available, contact gotc@optusnet.com.au or call 02 43261709 or 0402 059009.

The official website can be found at gatheringoftheclans.weebly.com.au or visit the facebook page.

The 20th Annual Gathering of the Clans will take place at the Norah Head Sports Gound, Bungary Rd, Norah Head on Saturday, September 3.