CC SUCCEED 2026

The Magazine for Local Business Awards Finalists and Winners | 2026

Agency built on values

She’s the queen of pilates

Hassle free pink slips

Founder Steve Loe’s book launch

2 | July 2026 www.centralcoastsun.au www.facebook.com/CoastBA www.youtube.com/user/AccessNewsAustralia

LBA Succeed 2026 How to get Sun Central Coast Sun is available at strategic locations throughout the Central Coast. To find a location near you visit our website.

Digital Edition Each edition of Sun can be read 24/7 and downloaded in digital format at our ISSUU platform: www.issuu.com/accessnews

Contacts Publisher: Michael Walls michael@accessnews.com.au Admin and General:

EDITOR’S PICKS

www.centralcoastsun.au

CENTRAL COAST'S TRUSTED

LOCAL MEDIA VOICE

Read the digital edition 24/7 at our website

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Sarah’s success at global awards.

Heart of Tuscany to the Central Coast.

New magazine for best senior’s living.

info@accessnews.com.au

Newsroom Travel Editor: Emma Wilson travelwellwithemma@gmail.com

Advertising sales Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au Colin Links colin@accessnews.com.au

Administration

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Rebecca Swaleh rebecca@accessnwes.com.au

BEAUTY

Design and production Design2Pro, Ju Ju Graphics.

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This salon is now one of the best.

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Platinum Media Partner

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Media Partner Central Coast Local Business Awards

Supporting Coast businesses The Central Coast Sun is the proud media partner for the Gosford Erina Business Chamber.

Visit: :www.gebc.com.au

TO ALL FINALISTS AND WINNERS The Central Coast Sun is the proud l;ong standing media partner for the Central Coast Local Business Awards. We congratulate all finalists and winners.

This edition and all LBA special editions are hosted permanently at www.centralcoastsun.au

Central Coast Sun

2026 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

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preparingfor for the event NowNow preparing thegala gala event

ONINATIONS for this year’s Central Coast Local Business Awards have now closed, and an outstanding number of votes have been placed by the local community.

The Precedent team has tallied the votes and are busy notifying finalists of their success and sending out finalist packs in the mail.

Precedent Productions Managing Director and Awards Founder, Steve Loe would like to congratulate each and every finalist and thank them for the exceptional goods and services they provide for the Central Coast community.

Mr. Loe said: “Being selected as a finalist in the Local Business Awards is a phenom-

enal achievement and can provide a huge psychological and practical boost for local businesses owners and their staff”.

Business finalists are now able to complete their online finalist questions and submit any additional information they feel may be relevant to judges.

Mystery shoppers will be sent out to each business to assess goods and services from a customer’s point of view, evaluating product range, value for money, and quality of service.

This information is judged by a panel of anonymous, impartial representatives who will select category winners.

The winners will be announced live at the Awards Presentation Evening held on Tuesday, 19 August at Mingara Receation Club.

The Presentation Evening grants a night

of celebration for business owners, their staff, and their loved ones, as well as an exceptional networking opportunity for all businesses, partners, and dignitaries involved.

Mr also trhanked this year’s Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partner: NOVA Employment, and Support Partners: North Lakes Shopping Centre, Bx Networking, and Kincumber Village who have thrown their support behind the local business community and the Central Coast awards program.

Mr Loe also thanked Central Coast Sun for their support as long standing media partner.

Sun publisher, Michael Walls, congratulated finalists and winners in the Central Coast’s premium local business awards.

To view the 2026 Central Coast business finalists or secure tickets to the Awards Presentation Evening, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au

NDISNDIS SERVICE PROVIDER CENTRAL COAST LAKE SERVICE PROVIDER CENTRAL COAST LAKE MACQUARIE ANDAND NEWCASTLE REGION MACQUARIE NEWCASTLE REGION

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0240675287

info@247careservices.com.au

www.centralcoastsun.au

CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

July 2026 |

PROUD TO BE A CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

FOR VOTING FOR US! We're honoured to be a finalist in the 2026 Central Coast Local Business Awards.

A massive thank you to our amazing customers and community for your support.

We couldn't do it without you!

From rare finds to your everyday favourites, we're here to help you discover something different.

LOCAL. INDEPENDENT. PASSIONATE.

That's Oldfield Cellars.

57 Central Coast Highway West Gosford NSW 2250 (Beside the Metro)

P: 02 4339 8728

OPEN 7 DAYS Mon-Sat 10am-8pm Sun 10am-7pm

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CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

SugarTimeAUS sugartimeaus 112 Pacific Highway, Tuggerah, 2259.

02 4353 1888

www.centralcoastsun.au

Open 9-4 weekdays, 9-1 Saturday for all your home cooking and CAKE decorating needs Looking to take your baking to the next level?

Look no further!

Our store in Tuggerah offers everything you need to complete your baking projects, whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro.

With a wide selection available both in-store and online, you're sure to find the perfect ingredients and tools tailored to your needs.

But that's not all—we pride ourselves on providing specialist supplies too! Whether you're interested in pickling, fermenting, or mastering sourdough, we have the kits and accessories to help you succeed. Come and explore our comprehensive selection for all your home cooking and decorating needs—everything you could possibly want is conveniently available in one place! Join us today and unleash your culinary creativity!

Welcome to Saddles and Sunsets Horse Riding!

Located in beautiful Summerland Point, we offer a safe, welcoming space for riders of all ages and abilities to build confidence, create lasting memories, and connect with our wonderful horses L BUS I N S ES

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Haus of Kelmila At Haus of Kelmila, we believe confidence is the ultimate luxury.

ABN: 41 514 068 836 Shop 1 302-306 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty 2261 Ph: 02 4305 8808 info@hausofkelmila.com.au

Combining premium hair, beauty, advanced skin, body sculpting and luxe makeup services, we deliver personalised transformations in a sophisticated,

www.hausofkelmila.com.au

results-driven space.

TikTok: www.TikTok.com/hausof_kelmila Instagram: www.instagram.com/hausof_kelmila

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At Renae Blackmore Pilates Studio (RBPS) we pride ourselves on offering individually tailored Pilates programs to enhance and empower your wellbeing. RBPS is a fully equipped Pilates studio set in a peaceful and tranquil se ng allowing clients to grow, move more efficiently and enrich their way of life. For 19 years RBPS has been opera ng on the Central coast building your confidence to become both physically and mentally strong, enabling you to get the most out of your life.

RBPS aims to help clients create a balanced body and calm mind through quality movement. Our highly trained staff promote emphasises on posture, breathing, increasing one's body awareness, injury preven on, rehabilita on, and long-term physical wellbeing. The studio focuses on delivering personalised programs rather than a one-size-fits-all class approach for people of all ages, fitness levels and movement abili es.

At RBPS our goal is to help clients move more efficiently, improve mobility and strength, reduce pain, enhance balance, and leave each session feeling energised, revitalised and empowered.

RBPS is a host site for Na onal Pilates Training (RTO 21719) of which Renae Blackmore is a Faculty Educator and Assessor. This is exci ng for RBPS and Renae as we can ac vely further the growth and development of Pilates teachers on the Central Coast with na onally recognised government accredited qualifica ons.

CATEGORY - FITNESS SERVICES CENTRAL COAST Local Business Awards Renae Blackmore Pilates studio 10 Dashwood Close Wamberal 0412492196 www.renaeblackmorepilates.com.au renaeblackmorepilatesstudio renaeblackmorepilates

8 | July 2026

CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

www.centralcoastsun.au

Sarah’s success at global awards

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ARAH MacRae of 24/7 Care Disability Services and Activity Hub has been named the third-place recipient in the Diversity and Inclusion Impact Award at the 2026 Women Changing the World Global Awards.

This year's awards saw over 1,500 nominations from 97 countries, highlighting the extraordinary global impact of women leading change across industries and communities.

These Awards celebrate and recognise women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, education, health and innovation.

The awards are designed to recognise the growing number of women who are leading the way in making the world a better place for us all, and to inspire other women to make a difference.

Sarah MacRae is the Founder and CEO of 24/7 Care Disability Services and Activity Hub, a registered NDIS provider on the Central Coast.

Drawing on nearly three decades of frontline experience and her own lived experience as a parent, Sarah built 24/7 Care around a simple but radical philosophy: accept the complex, high-needs participants that other providers turn away, and design environments that adapt to the person rather than forcing the person to adapt.

Today her organisation delivers centre-based day programs, community access, short-term accommoda-

tion and respite, and support coordination to participants across the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and the Lower Hunter.

This work is so important because too many people living with disability are told, in ways spoken and unspoken, that they are “too much” — too complex, too high-risk, too hard to support. Sarah refuses that message. Every program 24/7 Care runs is built on the

belief that no one is unsupportable, and that dignity, inclusion and genuine belonging are not privileges to be earned but rights to be protected.

Sarah MacRae says: “Winning this award broke me open in the best way. I sat there thinking about every participant who was told they were too complex, too hard, too much and I realised this bronze belongs to them, not me. It’s proof that the people the world overlooks are worth fighting for, and that’s why this matters more than any trophy ever could.”

The vision for these awards is to empower women everywhere to step into their power and call in women across the globe to pave the way towards a better future for all.

Sarah MacRae is proud of her achievements. In the last 12 months she has grown 24/7 Care to support 66 participants with a team of 46 staff and launched the Phoenix Grind participant-run café social enterprise.

She is committed to continuing to make an impact through her work, and her vision for the future is to expand pathways into meaningful employment and community life for people with disability, and to build 24/7 Care into a model that proves inclusive, person-centred care can be delivered at scale without ever losing its heart.

The complete list of winners can be found at: wcwawards.com/winners-regionals

Taking the hassle out of pink slips

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OR many NSW motorists, renewing vehicle registration can be an inconvenient chore.

The Pink Slip Guy is changing that by bringing professional pink slip inspections directly to customers, saving valuable time while delivering honest, reliable service.

Specialising in mobile pink slip (e-Safety Check) inspections, The Pink Slip Guy travels to homes, workplaces and other convenient locations across Sydney, eliminating the need to wait in busy workshops.

Whether you're a busy professional, a family juggling commitments or a business managing a fleet of vehicles, the service is designed to make registration renewals simple and stress-free.

What sets The Pink Slip Guy apart is a commitment to transparency and customer service. Every

inspection is carried out by licensed and experienced inspectors under the NSW Authorised Inspection Scheme, with straightforward advice and no unnecessary upselling.

If a vehicle requires repairs before passing inspection, customers receive a clear explanation of what needs attention, allowing them to make informed

decisions.

Convenience is at the heart of the business. Flexible booking options, prompt service and digital submission of inspection results to Service NSW mean customers can complete the registration process with minimal disruption to their day.

Built on the principles of honesty, reliability and convenience, The Pink Slip Guy has earned a strong reputation among Sydney motorists looking for a faster, easier way to complete their annual vehicle inspection.

By taking the workshop to the customer, the business has transformed what was once a time-consuming task into a straightforward, customer-focused experience.

Visit: www.thepinkslipguy.com.au

Salon is now one of the best

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The team at Indulge Hair and BNeauty.

ISA Hands has owned the Coast’s award winning Indulge Hair & Beauty for three years now.

“This beautiful little salon has been alive as long as I can remember,” Lisa said after winning the Best Hairdressing Salon category at the recent business awards,.

“I believe our level of customer service is next level. We go above and beyond for each and every one of our clients and we truly believe everyone is important and should be treated with the same level of care.

“From taking over the business three years ago as a single mum at 29 with only three staff including myself, I have now doubled my staff and been able to put on first year apprentice.

“I really believe our passion, quality of work, knowledge, professionalism, dedication, time management, creativ-

ity, customer service and satisfaction and cleanliness are so important and I believe we do this so well.

“I have managed to freshen up the salon replacing the salons 20 year old mirrors with beautiful big wall mirrors, freshly painted the salon, 10 brand new chairs, replaced the basins that are modern and now comfortable and replaced all front signs and front stickers.

“I have put so much time and effort into bringing this salon back to life.

“I see Indulge Hair to be bigger and better than ever and known as one of the Best Hair Salons on the Central Coast.”

And Lisa has just opened a new Barber Shop next door to her salon at Chittaway Shopping Centre. Called The Barber Shop Net Door, no appointment is needed to get a trim.

Visit: www.facebook.com/indulgehairandbeauty

www.centralcoastsun.au

CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

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WE SPECIALISE IN ALL ASPECTS OF METAL ROOF PLUMBING, GUTTERING & DOWNPIPE'S.

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Call for your free quote

Unit 5/9 David Street, Doyalson, NSW, Australia, New South Wales

0431 827 217

s.and.n.roofinginfo@gmail.com

Muse hair co is a boutique salon located in the heart of east Toukley, we specialise in all things hair and continue to grow and stay well educated in the hair industry.

Your experience at Muse is our priority we strive to maintain a peaceful calm

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atmosphere whilst creating your dream hair.

0401818600 3/315 main rd, Toukley, NSW, Australia, New South Wales (02) 4307 7958 Musehairco1@gmail.com

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CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026 www.centralcoastsun.au

Time to recognise business dedication ADAM CROUCH

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MALL businesses are the backbone of our region’s economy.

They create local jobs, support community groups, sponsor our sporting clubs and provide the services we need to make our region a great place to live.

Behind every small business is someone who has stepped out and taken a chance, working long hours, managing rising business costs and navigating increasing red tape to build something that benefits our community.

The Central Coast Local Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise these local business owners and celebrate their dedication, resilience and contribution to our region.

As the cost of doing business continues to rise, it's more important than ever that governments back the people who create jobs rather than make it harder for them to succeed.

That's why the NSW Liberals have announced a plan to create the most competitive payroll tax regime in Australia by: • Raising the payroll tax threshold from $1.2M to $1.5M.

• Reducing the payroll tax rate from 5.45 per cent to 4.75 per cent for businesses with a total Australian payroll below $10M. • Introducing CPI indexation to payroll tax thresholds to eliminate bracket creep.

For many businesses, this will mean annual savings of up to $75,850.

Congratulations to every business recognised in this year's Central Coast Local Business Awards and a big thank you for everything you do for our community.

Adam Crouch is NSW Member for Terrigal.

Visit: www.adamcrouchmp.com.au

Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the Central Coast Local Business Awards!

ADAM CROUCH

MP

02 4365 1906

terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250, funded using parliamentary entitlements

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Chittaway Bay Shopping Centre | Chittaway Centre, Shop 6, | 100 Chittaway Rd, | Chittaway Bay NSW 2261 | (02) 4388 3635

www.centralcoastsun.au

CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

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FINE DINING WITH VIEWS OVER TERRIGAL BEACH Dt Reid at the recent Big Aussie BBQ.

(02) 4384 3016

109 Scenic Hwy, Terrigal NSW 2260

reservations@thecowrie.com.au

thecowrie.com.au

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www.centralcoastsun.au

Allcare Nursing & Community Services LOCALS CARING FOR LOCALS YOUR CHOICE, YOUR WAY, YOUR HOME SINCE 1986

Supporting clients through Support at Home, Veterans' Care, icare Lifetime Care, Workers Compensation, NDIS and other funding programs

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• Home Nursing • Personal Care • Social Support

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GET IN TOUCH

Step Into Beauty & Confidence

Contact Us 0481 124 166 admin@ellelafemme.com.au

Shop 4a / 12 Campbell Crescent, Terrigal, NSW 2260

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Treat yourself to the elegance you deserve. Whether it’s a quick polish, a full pamper session, or your first digital nail print. Ella La Femme is here to make you shine.

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www.centralcoastsun.au

CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

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- 5-STAR RATED BUYER'S AGENCY

Book a free consultation.

Australia's 5-star buyer's agency.

Unmatched price outcomes & access to off-market properties.

As one of the most experienced and wellconnected buyer's agents in Australia, we're driven to save you time, money and stress by taking away the hassles that come from buying property.

Director & Buyer's Agent

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EMAIL amir@etherpropertyhub.com.au PHONE 0452 633 252 OFFICE 60 Mooramba Ave, North Gosford, NSW 2250 NSW: 400086989

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Discover new ideas, products and child friendly options across Australia.

Parentopia  Australia’s number one marketplace for products, services and resources for children, parents and families.

www.parentopia.au

FINALIST CENTRAL COAST

GEORGE’S FRUIT BARN TERRIGAL

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2020 & Outstanding Fruit and Vegetable Shop 2019 : 2020 : 2021 : 2023

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LONGEST RUNNING FRUIT SHOP ON THE CENTRAL COAST SINCE 1965!!

WINNERS

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CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

Clearing the way for new projects

HETHER preparing a site for a new family home, commercial development or major infrastructure project, Demo Australia has built a reputation for delivering demolition and site preparation services with professionalism, precision and an uncompromising commitment to safety.

With more than 20 years of industry experience, the company supports builders, developers, councils and property owners across Sydney with dependable, end-to-end solutions.

Demo Australia offers a comprehensive range of services including residential and commercial demolition, excavation, licensed asbestos removal,

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hazardous material remediation, tree removal, vegetation clearing and complete site preparation.

By providing every stage of the process under one roof, clients enjoy a seamless experience from initial planning through to a construction-ready site.

What sets Demo Australia apart is its commitment to quality, compliance and customer service. Every project is managed by experienced professionals using modern equipment and proven safety systems, ensuring work is completed efficiently while meeting strict Australian standards and regulatory requirements.

The company is also licensed to undertake ASP Level 2 electrical disconnections, enabling safe coordination of utility services before demolition begins.

As a family-run business, Demo Australia believes in building lasting relationships through honest advice, transparent pricing and reliable workmanship.

This customer-first approach has earned the company a loyal client base and strong word-of-mouth referrals throughout Sydney.

From single-home demolitions to complex commercial projects, Demo Australia continues to help shape new beginnings by safely clearing the path for the next stage of construction with expertise clients can trust.

Visit: www.demoaustralia.com.au

Creating stronger bodies, healthier lives

OR almost three decades, Renae Blackmore has been helping people move better, feel stronger and enjoy healthier, more balanced lives through the transformative benefits of Pilates.

Based in the peaceful surrounds of Wamberal on the Central Coast, Renae Blackmore Pilates Studio has become one of the region's most respected destinations for personalised Pilates instruction and professional training.

A highly qualified instructor since 1996, Renae's journey into Pilates began during her professional dancing career, where she discovered the method's remarkable ability to prevent injuries,

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improve strength and enhance performance.

Her passion for movement has since led her to train with internationally recognised Pilates educators and become a Faculty Educator and Assessor for National Pilates Training, helping shape the next generation of Pilates professionals.

What sets Renae Blackmore Pilates apart is its personalised approach. Every client begins with an individual consultation, allowing a tailored program to be developed based on their goals, fitness level or rehabilitation needs.

Whether clients are recovering from injury, preparing for motherhood, improving posture or simply

seeking greater wellbeing, each session is carefully supervised to ensure safe, effective progress.

Operating from a fully equipped purpose-built studio since 2007, Renae and her experienced team welcome people of all ages and abilities.

Their philosophy extends beyond exercise, focusing on creating stronger bodies, calmer minds and lifelong movement habits that enhance everyday living.

With a reputation built on expertise, genuine care and exceptional instruction, Renae Blackmore Pilates continues to inspire clients to discover just how powerful mindful movement can be, one personalised session at a time.

Visit: www.renaeblackmorepilates.com.au

Heart of Tuscany to the Central Coast

UTHENTIC Italian dining is about more than exceptional food, it's about family, tradition and bringing people together.

That philosophy is at the heart of Il Toscano, where every meal celebrates the flavours, hospitality and culture of Tuscany.

Founded by Tuscan-born chef and owner Matteo, Il Toscano was born from a desire to share the genuine Italian dining experience he grew up with. After moving to Australia, Matteo recognised an opportunity to offer something different on the Central Coast, fresh, handmade pasta, traditional recipes and warm hospitality that transports diners straight to the Italian countryside.

What began as a home delivery service during the COVID-19 pandemic has since grown into three thriving restaurants in Terrigal, Long Jetty and Gosford.

Every dish reflects Il Toscano's commitment to

quality and authenticity. Pasta and sauces are made in-house using carefully selected ingredients, while recipes remain true to traditional Tuscan cooking.

The restaurants are designed to recreate the at-

mosphere of a classic Italian trattoria, where sharing good food, fine wine and conversation is all part of the experience.

Backed by more than 20 years of hospitality experience, Matteo and his passionate team have earned loyalty by consistently delivering outstanding food and friendly, attentive service.

Whether guests are enjoying a relaxed family dinner, celebrating a special occasion or discovering authentic Italian cuisine for the first time, every visit is designed to feel welcoming and memorable.

With a passion for preserving Italian culinary traditions and sharing them with the local community, Il Toscano has become one of the Central Coast's favourite destinations for authentic handmade pasta, exceptional hospitality and a true taste of Tuscany.

Visit: www.iltoscano.com.au

Boutique agency built on family values

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UYING or selling a home is one of life's biggest decisions, and having the right team by your side can make all the difference.

At Whiteman Property, clients receive the expertise of an experienced real estate agency combined with the personalised service only a family-owned business can provide.

Founded by Brian and Jennifer Whiteman, the boutique agency has been proudly serving the Central Coast since 2013, earning a reputation for exceptional results and genuine client care.

Unlike traditional franchise agencies, Whiteman Property is independently owned, allowing the team to focus solely on achieving the

best outcomes for buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants across the entire Central Coast.

Every property is supported by innovative marketing, leading technology and a tailored strategy designed to maximise its value in today's competitive market.

The agency's success is built on more than impressive sales records. At its core are the family values of honesty, integrity, persistence and always putting clients first.

Whether helping families find their dream home, assisting investors with expert property management or guiding vendors through the sales process, the experienced team is committed

to making every property journey smooth and rewarding.

Based in Wamberal and backed by a highly experienced team of property professionals, Whiteman Property continues to set new benchmarks for customer service, local knowledge and outstanding results.

By combining boutique service with modern marketing and a genuine passion for the Central Coast community, the agency has become a trusted name in residential sales and property management throughout the region.

Visit: www.whitmanproperty.com.au

Why WISB?

ABS data shows a 46 per cent rise in the number of female business owners in the last 20 years. Female small business owners represent a formidable economic force.

Women in Small Business (WISB) is an empowering online resource that champions the female entrepreneurial spirit in all its forms and stages.

WISB covers the diverse and rich world that is the women in small business ecosystem, with profiles and back stories of success and innovation.

Inspire | Influence | Succeed Maggie

Kylie Madleine

Genene

Theresa

www.womeninsmallbusiness.au * info@accessnews.com.au www.facebook.com/Womeninsmallbusiuness

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CENTRAL COAST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS 2026

www.centralcoastsun.au

Leading with Heart:

Building a Business That Strengthens a Community When we founded The Heart & Mind Collective, we set out to build more than a psychology practice—we wanted to create a business that would strengthen the wellbeing of our community.

Leadership in healthcare isn't just about growth—it's about responsibility. It's about creating an environment where people feel safe to seek support, where clinicians can do their best work, and where collaboration replaces competition. We believe mental health care should be evidence-based, trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming and centred on genuine human connection.

As a locally owned practice, we're proud to invest back into the Central Coast through community education, professional development, partnerships with local health providers, schools and community organisations, and by mentoring the next generation of clinicians. We know that meaningful change happens when services work together, which is why collaboration sits at the heart of everything we do.

6/31 Dwyer street, North Gosford, NSW 2250

Phone: 02 4327 9435 Fax: 02 4312 6761

www.brownsugarbakery.com.au

Shop 5, 15 Forresters Beach Road, Forresters Beach, NSW, 2260

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Brown Sugar Bakery is a family-run business on the NSW Central Coast. Brown Sugar is open 7 days making the highest quality bread, cakes, pies and sausage rolls. Sour dough and artisan breads are our specialty. We also make awesome coffee and are open early!

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https://www.instagram.com/brown_sugar_bakery_2260/ https://www.facebook.com/BrownSugarBakery

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www.theheartandmindcollective.com.au Email: admin@heartandmindcollective.com.au

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The Heart & Mind Collective was built on the belief that compassionate leadership and sustainable business can exist side by side. By staying true to our values while continually striving to raise the standard of mental health care, we hope to help build a healthier, more inclusive Central Coast—one person, one family and one partnership at a time.

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Business success is important because it allows us to broaden our impact—but we measure success by more than growth alone. It's reflected in the families who feel understood, the professionals who feel supported, and the stronger, more connected networks of care we help foster across our region.

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Whiteman Property is a family owned independant business specialising in real estate on the Central Coast. Founded by Brian and Jennifer Whiteman with the dream to create a more personal, community-focused property service.

Our expert team is highly professional and share strong values and commitment to excellence.

Call us today to see how we help you on your property journey.

668 The Entrance Road, Wamberal | P: 02 4384 1349

419 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty, New South Wales 2261 Australia 0291000619

www.centralcoastsun.au

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CHAMPIONS CELEBRATES UNSUNG HEROES New book honours the stories, struggles and successes of over 100 small business owners from across Australia

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EHIND every café, butcher, jeweller and corner shop lies a story of grit, dreams and determination. Champions: The Legacy That Shaped Small Business for a Nation, a new book by Australian author Matthew Manahan and published by Precedent Productions, captures these stories in vivid detail and honours the man who has spent more than four decades putting small business owners in the national spotlight.

At the heart of Champions is Steve Loe, founder of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards, whose own journey started stacking shelves in his family’s corner store in Enfield. From those humble beginnings, his lifelong mission has been to recognise and celebrate the backbone of Australia’s economy its small business community.

“Small business isn’t small at all,” says author Matthew Manahan. “It’s the beating heart of Australia, and this book is living proof.”

From Sponsorship Tool to Legacy Originally envisioned by Loe as a corporate sponsorship aid (a tool he could walk into any corporation with and say, “This is what we’re about”), the project quickly took on a life of its own. What was planned as a six-month endeavour grew into a three-year passion project.

“As they say in Toy Story, you can’t rush art,” Manahan says. “It’s grown from a sponsorship prop into a true legacy piece.”

The result is a 403-page, large-format keepsake showcasing more than 100 stories from small business owners in every corner of Australia, from Darwin and North Queensland to Melbourne, Sydney and beyond.

Some stories will make readers laugh, others may move them to tears, like the tale of a young dyslexic boy who started a candy business as a child and is now thriving as a teenage entrepreneur.

“I just want to share these stories with people who

Founder Steve Loe and general manager Chris Jamgotchian.

Author Matthew Manahan.

don’t really understand small business,” Loe says.

“We’re the ones keeping this country moving.”

The “Oscars” for Small Business Much of the book’s spirit is inspired by the Australian Small Business Champion Awards, which Loe affectionately calls “the Oscars for small business”, complete with custom-designed trophies proudly displayed on winners’ websites and social media.

Since its inception in 1999, the awards have blossomed into a national celebration covering more than 100 categories, presented across multiple nights with Broadway-style production values.

“We want a winner’s name announced in front of a huge applause, giving them confidence they can take back to their business.”

That confidence can be life-changing.

“A lady once told me, ‘You’re the cause of my success.’ She said winning the award changed not only her business, but her life,” Loe recalls.

Stories, Laughter and Legends Manahan, embarking on his debut book, interviewed award winners from all industries, from trades to creative arts, uncovering their resilience, innovation and community spirit.

“I didn’t want to write a corporate book. I wanted a legacy piece with heart. You can pick it up any Sunday morning, turn to any page, and be inspired,” he says.

The book also captures unforgettable behindthe-scenes moments, such as the night former Prime Minister John Howard attended and “nearly caused a riot” of well-wishers, and the time Loe converted the Sydney Fish Market auction floor into a glamorous ballroom (he threw out his suit afterwards when the seafood smell proved impossible to remove).

Why Now With small businesses still navigating the aftershocks of recent economic challenges, Champions serves as part history, part celebration and part rallying cry for Australians to support local enterprise.

“Small business people are opening their shops before sunrise, employing locals and giving back to their communities,” Loe says. “They deserve a national platform, and this book continues that mission.”

About the Book Title: Champions: The Legacy That Shaped Small Business for a Nation.

Author: Matthew Manahan.

Publisher: Precedent Productions.

ISBN: 978-1-923225-53-4..

Publication Date: 2025 Available: Leading online and local bookstores, and via www.precedent.net

About the Author Matthew Manahan is an Australian writer dedicated to capturing stories that celebrate community, culture and enterprise.

About Steve Loe and Precedent Productions Steve Loe is the founder and director of Precedent Productions, creators of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. For more than 40 years, he has been a tireless advocate for excellence in small business and a champion of community achievement.

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