DONATION FOR MEALS ON WHEELS
WOMEN’S SHELTER
TNE NSW Government has given a funding boost to an innovative project to provide supported transitional accommodation to women over 55 experiencing or at risk of homelessness on the Central Coast. Allawah House is a former disused aged care facility that has been transformed into 14 safe and secure rooms to give older women a safe place to stay before they move into longerterm housing. Under the first round of the Homelessness Innovation Fund (HIF), the project received an injection of $275,000 to enable 12 months of specialist services to be provided at the site, whose location is undisclosed for safety reasons. More page 3.
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Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson visits Allawah House. YOUR CHANCE TO WIN MARINERS TICKETS
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SHELTER FOR ELDERLY WOMEN IN DANGER
Powerful example of what is possible
THE NSW Government has given a funding boost to an innovative project to provide supported transitional accommodation to women over 55 experiencing or at risk of homelessness on the Central Coast.
Allawah House is a former disused aged care facility that has been transformed into 14 safe and secure rooms to give older women a safe place to stay before they move into longer-term housing.
Under the first round of the Homelessness Innovation Fund (HIF), the project received an injection of $275,000 to enable 12 months of specialist services to be provided at the site, whose location is undisclosed for safety reasons.
The supported transitional accommodation is being delivered thanks to a partnership between Pacific Link Housing, Women’s Community Shelters and Homes NSW to help women over 55 years of age to secure long-term affordable housing.
The NSW Government’s
$100M Homelessness Innovation Fund is delivering targeted grants for reforming temporary accommodation and service reform, with $30 million provisionally allocated for the 2024-25 financial year. The grants are open to accredited homelessness services and registered Community Housing Providers (CHPs) or Aboriginal Community Housing Providers
(ACHPs), or other organisations on the pathway to accreditation or registration.
Round three of the Fund is now open and accepting applications until April 30, 2025 and eligible organisations are encouraged to apply.
The Homelessness Innovation Fund is a key component of the $6.6B Building Homes for NSW program, which will also build 8,400 new homes
Central Coast Economic Breakfast 2025
Friday 23rd May - Mingara Recreation Club
Business NSW Central Coast invites you to attend the 2025 Central Coast Economic Breakfast – the region’s premier annual event connecting over 300 of the most influential business and government leaders from across NSW. Hear the latest economic insights and key budget impacts from leading experts and policymakers, including;
The Hon. Daniel Mookhey MLC – Treasurer of NSW
The Hon. David Harris MP – Minister for the Central Coast
Belinda Allen – Chief Economist, Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Dr. Sherman Chan – Chief Economist, Business NSW
SCAN QR CODE FOR TICKETS & INFO
for public housing, deliver 21,000 new affordable and market homes and upgrade 30,000 social housing properties.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said: “I recently visited Allawah House and I was inspired by the sense of community they’ve created as well as their incredible achievements, with 80% of residents moving straight on into their own long-term home.
“The House has been created under a meanwhile use arrangement, with Pacific Link Housing and Women’s Community Shelters joining forces to use a property that would otherwise be sitting vacant.
“The project has been made possible thanks to the game-changing Homelessness Innovation Fund which is about giving short and sharp support to trusted organisations, helping to address the homelessness crisis while we build more homes.”
Minister for Women and Seniors Jodie Harrison said:
the government is pleased to continue its support for Allawah House which does such excellent work helping older women at risk of homelessness find a longer-term home.
Pacific Link Housing Group CEO Ian Lynch told the sun that Allawah House demonstrates that temporary solutions can create lasting change when the right partners come together.
“It’s a powerful example of what’s possible when government, community housing providers, support services and property owners collaborate,” he said.
Annabelle Daniel OAM CEO, Women’s Community Shelters said: “We are so proud of the support and safety Allawah House provides for older women escaping the cycle of domestic and family violence and homelessness.
“Here, women can access not only immediate safety but also all the critical assistance, help and collaboration they may need to build a positive future.”
The opening of Allawah House.
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Central Coast leads NSW in embracing AI
SCOTT GOULD
ATRTIFICIAL Intelligence has become more than just a buzzword for Central Coast businesses— it’s a powerful tool transforming productivity, innovation, and competitiveness across the region.
The 2025 Central Coast AI Summit, hosted by Business NSW at Mingara Recreation Club, highlighted a massive shift in how local businesses are embracing AI-driven change.
The event brought together more than 170 attendees from business, government, academia, and the tech sector. The message was clear: AI adoption is accelerating—and the Central Coast is leading the way.
“In just 12 months, we’ve gone from hesitation to momentum,” said Scott Goold, Regional Director of Business NSW.
“The Central Coast now has the highest AI receptiveness score in NSW. That’s a remarkable turnaround
Mfrom early 2024, when 45% of small businesses reported being unreceptive to AI.”
With support from partners NBN Australia and Microsoft, the event delivered practical demonstrations, thought-provoking panels, and a comprehensive Microsoft CoPilot workshop—all focused on helping businesses understand how AI can complement and enhance human capability.
“Local businesses are embracing AI not to replace people, but to empower them,” said Mr Goold. “They’re using it to cut down on repetitive tasks, improve marketing efficiency, and make better, faster decisions.”
Presenters from local companies like Definiti, TALK Agency, and Milestone-Belanova shared real-world case studies on how AI has helped their businesses grow, improve customer engagement, and reduce operational friction.
Key themes throughout the day included:
• Responsible and ethical AI adoption.
• The transformative role of AI in marketing, workforce development, and customer experience.
• Practical insights into using AI as a business tool, not just a tech trend.
Attendees also shared critical input on the importance of developing clear standards and protections as AI becomes more deeply embedded
in business processes. With growing adoption comes the need for clarity around data privacy, intellectual property, and ethical use.
“Guardrails and well-structured policy are essential to ensuring that businesses and their customers are protected as we move further into this new digital era,” said Mr Goold
The 2025 AI Summit marked a new chapter in regional innovation for the Central Coast, offering a blueprint for how local enterprises can embrace future-focused tools while maintaining transparency, integrity, and human-centred values.
“This wasn’t just a summit—it was a signal that the Central Coast is ready to lead in the AI space,” Mr Goold added.
“And the level of engagement from across the business community tells us that momentum is only building.”
Scott Goold is Regional Director Central Coast at Business NSW
Labor to upgrade Breakers Stadium
EMBER for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid, has announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will help upgrade Breakers Indoor Sports Stadium at Terrigal. This $985,000 election commitment
will go towards upgrades to the deteriorating facility, including replacing the roof and lighting, and the installation of solar panels and solar heat collectors. The upgrade will also include the replacement of the hot water system and
the sanding and re-sealing of the courts. Central Coast Basketball is the home of the Central Coast Rebels and Central Coast Crusaders. It has 3,000 registered members who participate in activities held weekly. Consistent with past practice, election
commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Mr Reid said Central Coast Basketball is an outstanding sporting organisation that nurtures and cultivates incredible basketball talent here on the coast.
Central Coast AI Summit.
CATS WREAKING HAVOC ON NATIVE WILDLIFE
Experts call for policy reforms in NSW
SASWATI MUKHERJEE
BY this time tomorrow, over 5 mil-
lion native mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs stand to be killed by the millions of feral and roaming pet cats in Australia.
Cats, both feral and roaming pets are the biggest drivers of native species extinction in Australia. If experts are to be believed, they have sent at least 25 species to extinction since colonisation.
“Every year about 66 million native mammals, frogs, reptiles and birds are killed by roaming pet cats just in Greater Sydney. We need a cultural change to stop this and that starts with empowering councils to bring in clear cat containment rules,” says Jack Gough, the Interim CEO at Invasive Species Council.
The Invasive Species Council is an organization that looks at protecting native Australian biodiversity by recommending stronger laws, policies, and programs to tackle invasive species.
Significantly, while almost every state and territory in Australia empowers local councils to implement rules for cat containment, NSW seems to have not adopted the same policy.
“Unfortunately, 70% of cat owners in Sydney and around Australia let their
cats roam and the nature of cats is they are really effective killers,” says Gough.
Nationally, more than 300 million native animals are killed every year, often due to irresponsible pet ownership.
Notably, a large number of pet cats in NSW are unregistered. In the urban areas, the majority are roaming pet cats, with very high densities. Feral cats are less of a concern in urban areas with the number of pet cats being on the higher side of the spectrum.
Submissions to the NSW feral cat inquiry closed recently, with the Invasive Species Council urgently calling on the NSW state government to urgently update the outdated 1998 Companion Animal Act, and in turn make it mandatory for local councils to implement cat containment rules.
The Invasive Species Council is urging the government to follow the lead of Victoria in allowing local councils to introduce cat containment laws and requiring each council to develop a companion management plan.
Pet Owner’s guide
Owning a pet cat should come with clear responsibilities to ensure your pet is not roaming around killing the country’s native birds, mammals, reptiles and frogs.
“A cat kept safely at home will live a longer life, pick up less diseases and is less likely to get injured in car accidents, dog attacks or cat fights, and they have far fewer vet bills,” says Gough.
This inquiry brings with it a real opportunity to get serious about protecting the native wildlife from one of the biggest drivers of extinction in this country.
The Invasive Species Council also recommended that the state government boost funding for responsible pet ownership initiatives like subsidised desexing and community education.
OWN supports Meals on Wheels Central Coast
MEALS on Wheels Central Coast (MOWCC) recently received a helping hand from Older Women's Network, Deepwater of the Peninsula.
To keep meal deliveries rolling out in the community, the Older Women's Network, Deepwater charity proudly supported MOWCC and their dedicated Meal Delivery volunteers, who help provide nutritious meals and social connection to senior citizens on the Central Coast.
The hardworking and generous women’s charity has donated $1,460 to the not-for-profit organisation in support of MOWCC’s Club 365 fundraising initiative.
As part of its work, OWN members continue to fundraise to provide donations towards food relief, groceries and meals via Mary Mac’s Place, Seventh Day Adventist and Community SOS food pantries.
After learning that the 165 MOWCC volunteers use their own vehicles and time to deliver 21,000 meals a month to over 1,100 senior citizens across the Central Coast – OWN Secretary, Jennifer Brown said: “We are so proud that our Club 365 donation will support volunteers and their daily runs each week, enabling MOWCC meal delivery volunteers to reach the most isolated and vulnerable clients of the Central Coast”.
OWN advocates for the rights, dignity and wellbeing of older women in the community. With the food insecurity being experienced across the Central Coast,
Ms Brown said: “In addition to the food pantries we support, it makes sense to support Meals on Wheels Central Coast, which deliver affordable and nutritious meals to the homes of senior citizens with the help of the Club 365 fundraising initiative.”
“We celebrate a shared mission with OWN members of providing connection, wellbeing and the innovative support activities that enhance the wellbeing of the community we serve” said Neridah McLeod, CEO of Meals on Wheels Central Coast.
Club 365 aims to secure ongoing support for MOWCC's essential meal delivery service by recruiting 365 donors to contribute $30 a month for 12 months. This initiative directly addresses the increasing costs associated with volunteer travel kilometres, which costs the organisation approximately $100,000 each year.
Darrell, a MOWCC Meal Delivery volunteer for over 15 years, shared his perspective: “I enjoy meeting new people and giving back to the community. Many of our clients are isolated, and even a five-minute conversation can make a world of difference.”
Club 365 is not only a fundraising effort but also a way for donors to connect with the mission of Meals on Wheels Central Coast. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible, and donors will gain exclusive access to MOWCC content and events.
No Govt support for sea wall
THE NSW Government will not support a seawall at Wamberal Beach, following strong advocacy from the local community.
Several pieces of land along the proposed seawall are owned by the New South Wales Government. The Premier, Chris Minns MP, announced on Tuesday 1 April at the Community Cabinet in Wamberal that the Government will not provide landowners consent for a seawall to be built on our publicly owned land.
The Government rejected the seawall due to the significant cost, concerns for the beach, and the risk of worsening erosion, impacting the broader community, while benefiting only private residents.
The Government spokesperson for Terrigal, Mark Buttigieg MLC, wrote to the Federal Minister for the Environment, Tanya Plibersek MP calling for a joint meeting with representatives from all levels of Government to urgently discuss options to safeguard the beach.
Solar installationsbatterysoar
THOUSANDS of NSW households are enjoying lower energy bills thanks to the strong early adoption of the NSW Labor Government’s household battery incentive, which delivers thousands of dollars off the cost of installation.
Since the incentive was launched in November, more than 7,800 batteries have been installed in homes and businesses across NSW. The Central Coast ranks second of NSW LGAs with 337 installations.
By using the incentive scheme, eligible homeowners and businesses get an upfront discount on the cost of battery installation through installers working with government-accredited suppliers.
The discount amount is related to the size of the battery, meaning larger batteries attract bigger discounts. For a typical household battery with 13.5 kilowatt-hours of capacity, this is a discount of more than $2000 on average and is available for both new and existing solar systems.
A typical household with an $1850 annual electricity bill can save around $1500 per year by installing solar and a battery.
With more than one-third of NSW homes now equipped with rooftop solar systems, the ability to store this solar energy in batteries for later use offers significant benefits for household budgets and energy reliability.
Wyong town centre highway upgrade
THE planning is over and early work is set to begin on the $420M project to upgrade the Pacific Highway through Wyong Town Centre.
The joint Australian and NSW Government project will provide two lanes in each direction from Johnson Road at Tuggerah through Wyong Town Centre, including a new fourlane road bridge over the Wyong River.
The Federal Government has committed $336M to the project, and the Minns Government has committed $84M.
Benefits will include improved safety and traffic flow, more reli-
Contract for intersection upgrade M
OTORISTS will soon benefit from safer and smoother journeys along the Central Coast Highway with plans progressing to upgrade the intersection at Tumbi Road.
Daracon Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract, and construction work will start in mid-2025.
Three contractors were shortlisted and invited to tender in mid-2024, with Daracon Pty Ltd named the successful contractor after a rigorous evaluation process.??
The State and Federal Governments are investing $65.5M to upgrade the notorious bottleneck as part of plans to improve traffic flow and safety on the Central Coast Highway between Wamberal and Bateau Bay.
The Tumbi Road Intersection upgrade is jointly funded with the Australian Government providing $52.4M and the NSW Government providing $13.1M.
Transport for NSW carried out extensive community consultation, with the outcomes published online in June 2022, and essential early works were completed in 2023.
The project is expected to create more than 100 full-time-equivalent jobs across planning, design and construction. The project will take about two years to complete, weather permitting.
Avoca shared pathway funded M
EMBER for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP, has announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will deliver $2.1M towards the construction of the Beaches Shared Pathway in Avoca Beach.
This election commitment will help fund the construction of a shared pathway from the Round Drive, along Avoca Drive, to Heazlett Park in Avoca Beach.
This announcement follows Labor’s commitments to invest in infrastructure across the Central Coast, including the $115M upgrade for Terrigal Drive, $15M towards fixing intersections in Empire Bay and the $1.8 million to upgrade Ettalong Beach foreshore. Election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Dr Reid said the community has campaigned hard to secure funding for a shared pathway in Avoca Beach with over 1,500 people have signed a petition to support the pathway.
able road access to and through Wyong Town Centre, and better connections to current and future public transport services.
The project will deliver upgraded intersections and a new, wider bridge over the railway at Rose Street.
The work will also deliver improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, across and along the Pacific Highway.
The upgrade will maintain Wyong’s identity and character while providing opportunities for future growth.
The NSW Government will start works for the project in coming months, including property demolition and clearing.
The design will incorporate feedback provided by the community last year in response to a refined concept display.
Key issues raised by the community related to traffic and transport, public and active transport, project development and design, socio-economic impacts, parking, and the environment.
The Pacific Highway through Wyong Town Centre.
The Doylo merges with Sydney Club
THE Doyalson-Wyee RSL Club (The Doylo) has announced its official amalgamation with Northmead Bowling, Recreation& Sporting Club (NBC Sports), in Western Sydney effective from February 5.
This strategic partnership marks a new chapter for both clubs, enhancing member benefits and securing a sustainable future for NBC.
The amalgamation is a significant milestone that aligns with The Doylo’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and fostering vibrant social spaces. By combining resources and expertise, the partnership will ensure that NBC continues to thrive while providing enhanced facilities, services, and experiences for all members and the wider Northmead community.
"We are excited to welcome NBC
Sports club into The Doylo family," said Darren Thornton, CEO of The Doylo.
"This amalgamation allows us to preserve NBC’s proud history while bringing new opportunities and improvements that will benefit members for years to come."
NBC has long been a cherished institution in the Northmead community, providing a welcoming space for bowling enthusiasts and social gatherings. Through this partnership, members can look forward to improved amenities, expanded event offerings, and a stronger support network within the club industry.
Both clubs will work together to ensure a smooth transition, prioritising open communication with members and maintaining the valued traditions that make NBC a beloved part of the community.
Comedy cabaret: An evening Without Kate Bush
FOLLOWING its
sold-out, critically acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe runs, two Soho Theatre seasons, 2020-2023 UK tours, a successful Australia-New Zealand tour in 2023, sold out shows at Sydney Festival and Adelaide Fringe, plus multiple Queensland venues, An Evening Without Kate Bush makes its debut at The Art House Wyong.
An Evening Without Kate Bush is a love dedication to one of the most influential voices in pop music, Kate Bush.
Performed by multiaward-winning performer Sarah-Louise Young, audiences can expect all the quirky costumes, choreography, phenomenal vocals as well as some hilarious and prompt improvisation work to include the audience in this one-woman theatrical cabaret show.
Howl with the Hounds of Love and dance on the moors with Wuthering Heights! This show is for all audiences, whether they’re Fish People, occasional listeners or know that one song from Stranger Things, audiences can expect a wildly wonderful show that will leave
them filled with joy.
“Spellbinding” The Daily Telegraph ***** (Critics’ Choice)
“You don’t need to be a Kate Bush fan to be transported into something very special” Scotsman ****
The real Kate Bush is not here, but this show is the next best thing to seeing her live, as she no longer tours and prefers to be rather recluse. This production has been extensively researched and is fully supported by Kate Bush herself. Sarah-Louise Young is an admirer of
Kate and her work and the wonderful eccentricities that made her famous.
Sarah-Louise leads a wonderful cabaret adventure and where she goes, the audience follows.
The Art House team are excited to have this show come to their venue and strongly encourage Coasties to come and see this wonderful production. The show is schedule for May 8.
Visit: www.thearthousewyong.com.au
Authorised by Emma McBride MP, ALP, 204/1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259
Dr Gordon Reid MP
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Dr Gordon Reid
LABOR TO DELIVER ONE MILLION Energy bill busting batteries
ARE-ELECTED Federal Labor Gov-
ernment will make batteries cheaper, slashing energy bills for households, small businesses and community facilities by up to 90 per cent.
We will roll out our $2.3B Cheaper Home Batteries Program from 1 July 2025 reducing the cost of a typical installed battery by 30 per cent – with over one million new batteries expected by 2030.
Analysis by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water shows a household with existing rooftop solar could save up to $1,100 off their power bill every year, and a household installing a new solar and a battery system could save up to $2,300 a year – up to 90 per cent of a typical family electricity bill.
This will help households reduce reliance on the grid – and take back control of their power bill.
There have been four million rooftop solar installations across Australia. One
in three Australian households now have solar – but only one in forty households have a battery.
Through our scheme, households will be able to purchase a typical battery with a 30 per cent discount on installed costs – saving around $4000 on a typical battery.
The battery will be installed at home and store power from solar panels for the household to use when needed.
The discount will be delivered through the existing Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme – the same program that has successfully and safely been delivering solar subsidies since 2011.
It will help push down peak demand with fewer homes needing to be on the grid at one time, pushing down prices for everyone.
Small businesses and community facilities will also be able to access the subsidy, with support for up to 50 kWh of batteries sized up to 100 kWh eligible.
This is part of Labor's plan for house-
Eholds and businesses to benefit from cheaper, cleaner power:
• More Direct Energy Bill Relief: an additional $150 direct energy bill relief for every household and around one million small businesses from July 1.
• $1B Household Energy Upgrades Fund: provides existing low-cost finance options to reduce up-front costs to assist people to upgrade their homes with modern energy efficient appliances and other energy efficient improvements.
• $800M Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative: to reduce energy bills for people in social housing, keep homes more liveable all year round and lower emissions.
• $100M Community Energy Upgrades Fund: supporting energy upgrades at community facilities, cutting emissions and driving down bills – such as upgrading energy-efficient lighting and battery storage at sporting fields, libraries and community centres. Labor's plan is in stark contrast to
Peter Dutton, who will cut critical services to pay for his $600 billion nuclear plan, driving up household energy bills by up to $1,200.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water provided analysis to the Government before the caretaker period commenced. This $2.3 billion investment is a decision of government reflected in the 2025-26 Budget.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said: “The sun doesn’t always shine – but households and businesses having batteries means we can keep solar energy on tap and keep energy bills down consistently.
“The contrast is clear – a re-elected Albanese Government will take pressure off household energy bills, while Peter Dutton’s Liberals will spend $600 billion on a nuclear plan that drives power bills up.
“We’ve already hit 46% renewable energy under Labor and we’re on track to hit 82% renewable energy by 2030. We can’t afford to risk this progress.”
5% Deposit for all First Home Buyers
VERYONE on the Central Coast deserves a home to call their own. But for many – young people in particular – the dream of owning their own home feels like it’s moving further out of reach.
Labor is determined to change that. Our plan will mean everyone on the Central Coast can buy their first home with a 5% deposit. No caps on places or income limits apply, so everyone can get into a home that’s right for them.
We’ll also build 100,000 new homes exclusively for first home buyers, without competition from property investors. This will mean there are more affordable homes close to work and family.
For first home buyers on the Central Coast, this is huge news.
I know that over time, it’s become harder and harder to save for a down payment.
Labor’s plan will make it easier. Our 5% deposits will slash the time it takes
to save up and help people into their own homes sooner.
But even when first-time buyers find a place they can afford, too many are losing out to property investors. By building 100,000 homes just for firsttime buyers, we’re helping to stop this by levelling the playing field.
As a country, we also need to build more homes – the kind of homes that meet the needs of different lifestyles.
Labor will continue the largest housing build in Australian history,
because more housing means more affordable homes.
Australia’s housing crisis has been building for a generation, pushing homeownership out of reach. It can’t be fixed overnight but Labor is making real progress.
We can’t risk Peter Dutton and the Liberals. They’ve opposed new homes, more support for first home buyers and have promised massive cuts if elected.
With your support, Labor can continue to build Australia’s future.
Delivered commitments under a Federal Labor Government
DURING the last three years, Dr Gordon Reid MP and the Federal Labor Government have delivered on its local commitments to the people of the Central Coast. These commitments include:
• A Medicare Urgent Care Clinic for Umina Beach, servicing the surrounding communities.
• $100 million to upgrade Avoca Drive through Kincumber, with the construction tender being announced soon.
• $40 million for the Central Coast Roads Package.
• A community battery in Narara, to help store solar electricity and bring down energy bills.
• Secured millions for local sports facility upgrades in Kincumber and Kariong with work to commence soon.
• Secured over a million dollars for general practices on the Central Coast.
• Changed the Distribution Priority Area (DPA) on the Central Coast to allow general practices to draw upon a greater pool of available doctors, helping address GP shortages.
• Provided thousands of dollars of grant funding to local not-for-profit community organisations.
• Facilitated cost of living forums, scams forums, seniors’ forums, women’s and men’s health forums, and community forums across the electorate of Robertson.
As the next Federal Election approaches, Dr Gordon Reid MP, and Labor will deliver, if elected:
• A new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in the Terrigal district to service surrounding communities.
• $10 million to improve maternity services at our public hospitals (Gosford & Wyong).
• $115 million to upgrade Terrigal
Drive in Erina and Terrigal.
• $15 million to fix intersections in Empire Bay.
• Delivering the $93 million Central Coast Roads Package.
• $1.8 million to upgrade Ettalong Beach Foreshore.
With the backing of our community, Dr Gordon Reid MP and the Federal Labor Government can continue to deliver for the Central Coast.
“A re-elected Federal Labor Government will make buying a household battery cheaper and more accessible.
“I know that many people on the Central Coast have raised household battery costs as a concern for them, and a barrier.
“Our policy will make this technology in reach and help reduce electricity prices”, Dr Reid said.
Key facts on Labor’s Cheaper Home Batteries program:
• Labor will reduce the cost of a typical installed battery by 30 per cent, cutting around $4,000 from the upfront cost of an 11.5 kWh battery – a typical size for a household.
• The discount will be applied on installing virtual power plant (VPP)-ready battery systems alongside new or existing rooftop solar until 2030. It will reduce over time in line with expected battery costs.
• This will be done using the same tried-and-tested system we have used safely and successfully for rooftop solar since 2011 – the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.
• By helping the grid work better, people without batteries will see modest savings even without buying a battery.
• The discount can be combined with existing state schemes and other federal initiatives.
Adam Crouch
VICTIMS OF YOUTH CRIME – WE HEAR YOU
We see you and we’re listening to you
THE recent incidents of youth crime in the community have caused a great deal of concern for those living on the Central Coast. Increasing incidents of youth crime aren’t just endemic to the Central Coast, it’s a statewide problem that we need to address head on.
Recently, the Central Coast held a Community Forum to discuss the community’s concern surrounding the increase of youth crime and develop initiatives for a whole-of-government approach to tackling the issue.
The forum, held at the Erina Leagues Club, was well attended with over 350+ residents taking part, and representatives from all levels of government, youth services and the local Brisbane Water Police District. The feedback from the community was crystal clear – we need to do more in tackling youth crime and ensuring everyone can feel safe out and about and at home.
Since the recorded spike of youth crime in late 2023, I have been calling for a stronger government response. We need to look at a suite of measures so we can target those who are at-risk of falling into a life of crime, but also target those
repeat offenders with establishing tougher bail laws.
In late March, the NSW Opposition proposed changes to the Bail Amendment (Extension of Limitation on Bail in Certain Circumstances) Bill 2025 to take action on these repeat offenders. The proposals included:
1. Establishing and en-
forcing a curfew of 8:00pm to 6:00am for repeat youth of youth offenders on bail
2. Introduction of electronic monitoring bracelets for repeat youth offenders to assist in enforcement of the curfew, and;
3. Introducing a new requirement for the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) to report youth
Lcrime data every three months, acting as a key performance indicator for our proposals. Despite the attendance of the Minns Labor Government’s very own Police Minister at the community forum, who heard from locals who wanted stronger action on youth crime, they voted against our amendments.
Regardless, the NSW Liberals and Nationals are pushing ahead for stronger and immediate legislative reform to stop repeat serious youth offenders from carrying out crime sprees across our region, and New South Wales.
Shadow Attorney General Alister Henskens will introduce the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Youth Crime) Bill 2025 in Parliament after in-depth collaboration with consultation with regional communities across NSW.
The Bill expands the definition of repeat offences beyond serious break and enter and motor vehicle theft to all serious indictable offences, revocation of bail if there is a breach of bail conditions, another charge is laid while on bail, or if there is any interference with an electronic monitoring device.
Youth crime is a serious and growing issue, especially on the Central Coast. The NSW Liberals and Nationals will continue to call for stronger action on youth crime from the Minns Labor Government.
We are committed to real reform that keeps communities safe. The message from locals is clear—they expect action and they expect it now.
Recognising Davistown’s community champion Jenny McCulla
ONG-time Davistown local and former President of the Davistown Progress Association, Jenny McCulla, has been recognised with a prestigious New South Wales Community Service Award for her tireless dedication to improving the local community.
Jenny joined the Davistown Progress Association in 2014 and took on the role of President in 2015. Since then, she has played an instrumental role in securing grant funding, organising community events, and advocating for local infrastructure upgrades that have benefited the entire Davistown area.
From coordinating art and craft days to rallying business support and delivering successful markets, Jenny’s leadership has had a lasting impact on the community. Her work has helped secure tens of thousands of dollars in grants and contributed to projects like drink fountains, road seal-
a positive outcome following strong representation to then-Administrator of Central Coast Council, Rik Hart.
Jenny McCulla is a cornerstone of the Davistown community – a trailblazer and a doer. Her passion for improving community assets and delivering better outcomes for locals is second to none, which is why this award is incredibly well deserved.
In addition to her service on the Central Coast, Jenny previously served as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor for the former Baulkham Hills Shire Council. She was the first elected female to the Council and played a significant role in planning for the future of the Hills District, including projects such as the Norwest Business Park.
Jenny’s service continues to inspire the next generation of community leaders, and her legacy will leave a lasting imprint on Davistown and beyond.
ing, and the new wastewater pod system.
Jenny’s advocacy was also pivotal in the Save Pippi Point
Dog Park campaign, where she and the committee achieved
COMMENT
Emma McBride
CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY ON COAST
Food manufacturing innovation hub
THE Albanese Labor Government is strengthening the future of food manufacturing on the NSW Central Coast, with construction underway on a new $17.14M facility in Ourimbah.
Labor committed to fully fund the Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub at the 2022 election, partnering with local businesses and industry leaders to grow this important industry.
The hub is dedicated to driving product development, skills, training and innovation.
As a partnership spanning food manufacturers, the University of Newcastle and Regional Development Central Coast, it also brings together the local leaders who will grow this industry and create more local jobs into the future.
Construction of the hub is expected to be completed in March 2026 and an interim skills hub is operating from the University of Newcastle’s Ourimbah campus while the new facilities are built.
The interim hub is home to industry-led training programs focusing on manufacturing leadership, product innovation and machine operation.
Training is attracting a wide range of participants, from students and industry professionals to small business owners.
The programs will also support broader inclusion by providing training opportunities for women, First Nations Australians and job seekers who are ready to be part of the region’s manufacturing future.
The new hub will be managed by not-for-profit manufacturing network, Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC).
Minister Husic said: “The Central Coast’s a food manufacturing powerhouse and we reckon that should continue.
“Our investment is creating a cutting-edge processing plant where the best food tech from the Hunter to the Central Coast can come together at a centre of excellence at Ourimbah.
“Best of all, the training programs that come with this investment will create lifelong job opportunities for local workers and a skills base to grow a thriving new local industry.
“Only a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will build a future for Australian manufacturing.”
Assistant Minister McBride said:
“This project brings together industry leaders and cutting-edge researcherssupported by the Labor government - to expand food manufacturing, boost local jobs and strengthen the local economy.
“The Coast proudly produces some of the most well-known food brands stocked on shelves across the country and around the world.
“I was proud to secure $17.14M in Commonwealth funding to make this long-time vision a reality for our region.”
Frank Sammut, Executive Director of Central Coast Industry Connect: “This is a long-time vision that we have had for the Central Coast, and it’s great that we are now on our way to making it happen.
“Between now and when the hub opens, it is planned to have programs developed, piloted, and proven so we can hit the road running when the hub officially opens.”
Labor to deliver free mental health services
Australians on the Central Coast will have more options for free, public mental health care backed by Medicare, thanks to a billion-dollar investment by a re-elected Albanese Labor Government.
The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Tuggerah will be upgraded to a full service and the Headspace in Gosford will be upgraded to a Headspace Plus.
Locals will have access to free, walkin mental health support and care with the upgrade of an existing mental health service to a full Medicare Mental Health Centre in Tuggerah.
Medicare Mental Health Centres provide free, walk-in mental health support
and care
for people in distress and ongoing care for more complex mental health needs.
The centres are staffed by a multidisciplinary care team, including social workers, nurses and peer support workers, who will provide wraparound support and care across extended hours.
To boost access to specialist care, the Albanese Labor Government has invested an additional $29.9M to provide access to psychologists and psychiatrists for every centre in the 2024-25 Budget.
The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Tuggerah is part of a $225M election commitment to roll out 31 new and upgraded Medicare Mental Health Centres.
Further, Headspace provides a welcoming, youth-friendly space and highly trained staff who can provide help with mental health care, physical and sexual health care, alcohol and drug issues, and work and study.
Headspace centres assist the growing number of young people aged 12 to 25 years who experience or are at risk of mild to moderate mental ill-health.
Headspace Plus is a new model of headspace with additional staff and capability to support young people with more complex and serious mental health issues.
The headspace Plus in Gosford is part of more than $200M election commitment by the Albanese Government to roll out 58 new or upgraded headspace services.
Nationally, the Albanese Government’s $1B mental health commitment includes:
• $225M for 31 new and upgraded Medicare Mental Health Centres.
• More than $200M for 58 new, upgraded or expanded headspace services.
• $500M for 20 Youth Specialist Care Centres for young people with complex needs.
• $90M for more than 1,200 training places for mental health professionals
and peer workers.
From 1 January 2026, a new national early intervention service will launch, which anyone can access for free mental health support. Approximately 150,000 Australians are expected to use the service each year, getting free support early, without waiting for a referral or being worried about a gap fee.
Providing more free, public mental health services for Australians with different levels of need will help to relieve pressure on the subsidised services provided by private psychologists.
This is in stark contrast to Peter Dutton’s plan to increase demand for private psychologists’ services, which will drive up gap fees and make wait lists longer.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Assistant Minister, The Hon. Emma McBride MP said: “Our government is putting mental health at the heart of Medicare and services in the heart of communities.
“In response to growing demand, we’ll expand the Tuggerah Medicare Mental Health Centre.
“We’re also boosting support for young people with 58 new and expanded headspace services and 20 new Youth Specialist Care Centres.”
Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP said: “As an emergency department doctor, my priority is the health and wellbeing of our community.
“Labor want’s everyone, and especially young people, to be able to access the mental health care they need.
“The Headspace Plus in Gosford will provide Australians on the Central Coast with the free mental health care they or their family need.
“Whether you need short-term support or ongoing care, young or old, we will ensure that a free, mental health service backed by Medicare will be there for you and your family.”
Delivering more at Medicare urgent care clinics
ARE-elected Albanese Labor Government will deliver additional access to urgent health care in Lake Macquarie, the Central Coast and Newcastle with more funding to the Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Charlestown and Lake Haven, to boost their capacity to treat more patients.
Since the Charlestown Medicare Urgent Care Clinic opened in late November 2024, the clinic has already treated 5,100 patients, averaging around 50 people each day.
The Lake Haven Medicare Urgent Care Clinic has seen strong growth in patient numbers, treating more than 17,500 Australians since it opened, and an average of around 45 people a day in recent weeks.
This makes the Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Charlestown and Lake Haven some of the busiest in Australia.
A re-elected Albanese Labor
Government will open another 50 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, with more clinics in every state and territory. There will be a new clinic on the Central Coast with a new Urgent Care Clinic in Terrigal.
The Liberals say the Albanese Labor Government’s Urgent Care Clinics are “wasteful spending”.
Peter Dutton will close every Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, forcing over a million Australians a year back into the waiting rooms of busy hospital emergency departments.
Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are open seven days a week, for extended hours.
No appointment is needed, patients can walk in and all services are bulk billed, with no out-of-pocket costs.
The highly trained doctors and nurses are equipped to treat a range of conditions and injuries that need urgent attention but aren’t life threaten-
ing, such as a cut, a high temperature, a viral infection or a sprained ankle.
The Charlestown and Lake Haven clinics are helping to ease pressure on the John Hunter Hospital and Wyong Hospital, where over 2 in 5 presentations were for semi- or non-urgent conditions in 2023–24.
Urgent Care Clinics also provide important cost-of-living relief for patients seeking urgent, but not life-threatening care.
Nationally, the 87 existing Medicare Urgent Care Clinics have already seen more than 1.3 million people since the first sites opened in June 2023. This includes almost 250,000 presentations to the 22 clinics in New South Wales.
This is an election commitment.
Minister Butler said: “The Charlestown and Lake Haven Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are some of the busiest in the country. That’s why we’re delivering more funding so they can boost their
capacity and see more patients at once".
“Only Labor will strengthen Medicare by delivering more bulk billing and more urgent care clinics."
Minister Conroy, Member for Shortland said:
“The Charlestown Medicare Urgent Care Clinic has been a game changer for our community and Labor will boost its capacity so it can treat even more people.”
“I know many families that have used the clinic when otherwise they would have been stuck waiting for hours at the John Hunter.”
Assistant Minister McBride, Member for Dobell said:
“Since opening, more than 17,500 locals have visited the free Lake Haven Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.
“To meet growing demand, a re-elected Labor Government will provide extra funding to boost capacity.”
David Harriss MP
Central Coast Kids Hub
The Hon. David Harris Member for Woyng joined Rose Jackson NSW Minister for Mental Health, Emma McBride Federal Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and the CCLHD team at the new site for the upcoming Central Coast Kids Hub in Tuggerah.
The hub will provide an accessible, child-centred and family-focused service for children experiencing challenges with their mental health and wellbeing.
When it opens in coming weeks, the Tuggerah facility will be the first of four kids hubs being rolled out in Penrith, Wollongong and Orange as part of a $35.8 million joint investment by the Australian and NSW Governments to support children’s mental health.
We know that services like this are vital as half of all mental illnesses arise before the age of 14 and three quarters of people by the age of 25.
But by intervening early with specialist help and support means children and
young people have the greatest chance to get the best possible outcomes.
The Tuggerah Kids Hub aims to do just that.
It will give mums and dads a safe space to call upon when their child is facing mental health challenges.
Mr Harris said it’s an impressive facility and is looking forward to it opening and providing care for children and their families on the Central Coast.
At all times if you, or someone you know, is in a life-threatening situation please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero.
If you or someone you know needs specialist mental health care, please call the free Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 which operates 24/7.
Young people experiencing mental health distress can also access a range of services including the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 and Youth Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
SafeWyongHaven now open
DAVID Harris Member for Wyong joined Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson to officially open the new Wyong Safe Haven.
On the grounds of Wyong Hospital, the facility will offer immediate support for people with suicidal thoughts or distress, offering a safe and welcoming alternative to emergency departments.
Wyong is the second Safe Haven on the Coast complementing Gosford Safe Haven which opened in November 2023 and supported more than 1600 people throughout 2024.
The service has a strong focus on providing culturally safe care delivered by Aboriginal suicide prevention peer workers.
It features a peaceful outdoor area and yarning circle, along with a calming indoor space featuring local Aboriginal artwork, creating a sense of connection and belonging for local Aboriginal residents visiting the haven.
In attendance was Steve Ella, CCLHD director Aboriginal Health and his team at the launch and Uncle Gavi Duncan who gave a wonderful welcome
to Country.
Many in our community are doing it tough right now and Mr Harris encourages Coasties struggling with their mental health to find refuge at one of our safe havens.
There is no need for an appointment or a medical referral to attend – everyone is free to drop in.
Carers can also access the service for support in helping their loved ones.
Initially open from 9am to 3:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Wyong Safe Haven’s hours will increase in coming months to be open five days a week by mid-year.
Wyong is the 23rd Safe Haven opened in NSW as part of a range of the Minns Labor Government’s four-year, $143.4 million investment to keep people with suicidal thoughts out of EDs and into proper care.
Tragically there were 961 suspected or confirmed suicide deaths reported in NSW last year and that is 961 too many.
Mr Harris congratulates the team for getting this vital new service up and running and helping people who need it the most.
COAST BUSiNESS
Mission: Bring Coast businesses together
PETER LAWLEY
THE Gosford Erina Business Chamber (GEBC) mission is to bring businesses together by providing a united voice and the leadership to encourage development and investment. We are an advocate for members within government as well as business stakeholders. We are a conduit for resources, education and support who identify business opportunities for the region. We can also provide and promote events and networking to benefit members.
There are many benefits of local
business’s becoming a member of your local Business Chamber, and on the Central Coast we have four strong Business Chambers who actively work together and with Business NSW Central Coast region.
This group have regular meetings with Central Coast Council and have strong support from all our local Members of Parliament (State and Federal) who understand and appreciate the role that Business Chambers play in the region.
As part of the Chamber Alliance Program, Gosford Erina Business Chamber members will be entitled to become a Business NSW member under
the Gosford Erina Business Chamber membership package with limited entitlements. This includes support with a business hotline, advice line calls for workplace and legal, and networking and educational events.
By becoming a member of the Gosford Erina Business Chamber, you not only get the opportunity to discover what is going on in the Central Coast's capital city but also become part of its direction.
In early May GEBC will hold an exclusive member only networking event, with each business provided with the opportunity to highlight their business and meet prospective clients or identify
Gosford RSL is leading the CHARGE
AT Gosford RSL, we’re proud to support a cleaner, greener future with the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations— another step in our commitment to environmental sustainability and community care.
Located conveniently between the Club and the Galaxy Motel, our four charging bays feature two dual-port 22kW
fast chargers, allowing up to four vehicles to charge at once. Whether you’re stopping in for a meal at The Gardens, enjoying a show, or staying overnight, you can now power up while enjoying everything we have to offer.
This initiative is more than just practical—it’s part of a bigger picture. By encouraging the use of electric vehicles,
we’re helping reduce carbon emissions and supporting the shift toward renewable energy. It’s a small change with big impact, and we’re excited to be part of the movement.
a local business they could access. There will also be an event in Jue that is focused on Gosford, East Gosford and Erina office and shop vacancies, and how by working with owners and agents, perhaps provide an opportunity to re-invigorate these key business areas. Go to www.gebc.com.au to join. Annual membership starts at $150 for small businesses. Through to $400PA for a business with more than 11 employees.
Peter Lawley OAM is President of the Gosford Erina
Business Chamber
As one venue offering multiple experiences, we believe in providing modern, thoughtful amenities that benefit our members, guests, and the wider community. From good food to good company—and now, good energy—Gosford RSL is proud to be leading the charge.
Return and Earn returns $1.3B in refunds
NSW’s Return and Earn scheme has reached a major milestone, with 13 billion drink containers recycled since its 2017 launch - returning over $1.3B refunds to the community and raising $72M for charities. The program has saved water, energy, and cut emissions, reducing litter by 73%. With over 650 return points statewide, participation is strong, especially in regional areas. The scheme continues to support sustainability, community causes, and the circular economy, turning waste into valuable resources across NSW.
Anxiety disorders during, after pregnancy
RESEARCHERS from UNSW Sydney and the George Institute have launched a five-year study into perinatal intrusions - distressing, vivid thoughts of infant-related harm experienced by most women during and after pregnancy. Often misunderstood and under-researched, these thoughts can lead to anxiety disorders affecting both mother and infant. The study will explore biological, social, and cognitive factors, including hormone sensitivity, to identify those most at risk. The aim is to inform early interventions and improve perinatal mental health outcomes for mothers and their babies.
Aussie super surpasses UK and Canada
AUSTRALIA’S superannuation system is projected to become the world’s second largest by 2031, surpassing the UK and Canada, according to the Super Members Council. With $4.1 trillion in assets, the system is growing twice as fast as global peers, reducing reliance on the Age Pension and easing pressure on taxpayers. Key policy settings—universal coverage, compulsory contributions, and preservation until retirement - drive its success. A super fund delegation is in the US seeking global investment opportunities to grow members’ retirement savings further.
Sydney confirmed as host for NRL finals
SYDNEY has been confirmed as the host of the 2025 NRL and NRLW Grand Finals, to be held on Sunday 5 October at Accor Stadium. The deal cements Sydney’s status as the home of rugby league, where the Grand Final has traditionally been played. With strong fan interest and the sport’s expansion into global markets, the event will bring major economic and cultural benefits to NSW. It also highlights the city’s growing international profile in major sporting events.
Funds to address wheelchair taxi shortage
THE NSW Government has launched a $15M emergency funding package to address the critical shortage of wheelchair accessible taxis (WATs), which have declined by one-third since 2019. The package includes increased driver incentives, new grants for vehicle costs, and improved driver training. An interest-free loan scheme has also been expanded. This urgent response aims to restore access for people with disability, while a longer-term reform plan is being developed in consultation with the community to ensure sustainable transport services.
Mental health support for first responders
THE NSW Government has launched a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for first responders, now including forestry, national parks, and transport workers alongside traditional emergency services. The strategy outlines 15 priority actions to improve mental health support, with a focus on accessibility in regional areas. Measures include Psychological First Aid training, clinical care referrals, and peer-support services. This proactive approach ensures all first responders receive tailored, trauma-informed support throughout their careers, promoting long-term wellbeing and workforce sustainability.
Surge in rough sleeping in regional areas
ROUGH sleeping in Australia has surged 22% nationwide since 2020, with a 51% rise in NSWespecially in regional areas - due to a worsening housing crisis. More employed Australians are seeking help, and services are overwhelmed. Rising rents, limited social housing, and funding shortfalls are pushing more people into homelessness. Experts warn urgent action and investment in prevention and housing solutions are needed to address what is now a national homelessness emergency.
Better feedback from breast screening
FROM April 2025, BreastScreen NSW will begin informing women of their breast density to help assess breast cancer risk. Dense breast tissue can make cancer harder to detect on mammograms and is a known risk factor. The change won’t affect appointment times, and women with high density are encouraged to speak with their doctor. Mammograms remain the best screening method, especially for women aged 50–74, with earlier screening advised for Aboriginal women.
Govt invests in keeping youth on track
THE NSW Government is investing over $270,000 in a new partnership with the NRL and PCYC to tackle regional youth crime and build stronger communities. The program will engage young people through events featuring NRL stars, police, and PCYC staff, promoting mental health, fitness, and positive choices. It complements broader crime prevention efforts, including tougher laws and youth mentoring initiatives like Project Pathfinder, aiming to keep young people on track and enhance safety in regional NSW communities.
Australia’s number one marketplace for products, services and resources for children , parents and families
with EMMA WILSON
WINTER TRAVELLING IN THE USA Utah has everything
STARGAZING, skiing, tobogganing, ice castle experience, interesting history and great dining. Make sure you put Utah on your radar as your next winter holiday. It is wonderful in all seasons but don’t miss Utah in the winter - it’s particularly special.
Go For the Snow
Park City Mountain Resort is the USA’s largest snow resort and is only 30-35 minutes by car, uber or shuttle bus from Salt Lake International Airport. Park City Mountain Resort has two mountain bases, Park City and the Canyons - and both offer slightly different experiences. The Canyons has a brand-new upmarket accommodation, shopping and dining precinct called The Pendry, with amazing Japanese and Mexican food and a new gondola being installed over summer ready for winter season 2025/26. This will whisk guests from right outside the Pendry precinct up to the Red Pine skiing area. At the Park City Mountain base side you can ski from the top of the resort all the way down to Park City’s historic Main Street. Here you can go shopping, eat lunch or grab a coffee and catch a chairlift back up, all just 5 metres from the front of your restaurant in the Main Street of the town. I can’t think of another snow resort where you can have this unique experience, and I have visited 100 snow resorts in the USA, Europe and America. Find out more about Park City skiing at www.skiutah.com
History
Park City has a colourful history as a mining town, back in the 19th and 20th centuries silver, lead and zinc were extracted from the mountains and consequently you can ski around on the mountain and still see remnants of mining equipment large and small from this era. As you ski around it’s fun to see mining themes in the daylodges when you stop for lunch or a drink, and you can sign up to get a tour, skiing around picturesque mining structures that sit with a backdrop of snow. Tours run every day at 10am and 12.30pm during the winter season and check the schedule for details www. parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/activities/winter-activities/historic-mountain-tours
Sundance Film Festival
Every January, Park City hosts the
Sundance Film Festival, an independent short film and documentary film festival that celebrates emerging talent and thought-provoking ideas in 11 categories over 11 days. Films are shown at different venues around Park City and the town comes alive with festival-goers dining, discussing, walking between different films and even throwing on the skis for a few laps at Park City Mountain. Head to www. festival.sundance.org/ for next year’s tickets, the festival runs from 22nd January to the 1st February 2026.
Food culture
Did you know Park City is well-known as a foodie destination? Walk along Main Street and enjoy the colourful street scene with bars, pubs and restaurants vying for your attention. Riverhorse on Main offers American fine dining with seasonal food and local ingredients. High West Distillery & Saloon serves American pub food and as the first legal distillery in Utah since the Prohibition era has a range of craft spirits and unique charm. The Farm, on the Canyons base side offers American farm to table meals and is a fun place
to sit outside on a sunny day. Midway Mercantile is a short drive from Park City Main street and a great American dining experience in a refurbished general store. It serves up locally sourced cuisine from fresh local ingredients and centres on a hearth-to-table family dining experience. www.parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/during-your-stay/dining
Activities Galore
Just 20 minutes down the road from Park City Main Street is an activities precinct that offers family snow tubing. Soldiers Hollow Nordic Center has the longest tubing lanes in Utah at 1200 feet (365 metres) long, so long you need a conveyor belt to get to the top. Sessions go for 2 hours, it is an experience suitable for Grandma as well as toddlers, dress warmly as this exciting ride is an outdoor experience.
Ice Castles
Is an all-ages activity best enjoyed at night when the sun goes down as purpose-built ice castles, sculptures and slides are lit up with neon lights and music. This activation is hand-built by 20 to 40 ice artists, and all 12,000 icicles are made by hand. It is across the road from the Soldier Hollow tubing activity and takes about an hour so if you plan ahead you can enjoy both before heading to
the Midway Mercantile for a warm meal. Don’t forget to book your activities and dining ahead.
Star gazing and Pitch Black Skies
Utah has several locations recognised as International Dark Sky Places, such as Antelope Island State Park, a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City, known for amazing night sky quality. It is worth experiencing if you have more time in the area and perhaps a couple of nights staying in Salt Lake City before or after your flight.
Easy Access
Utah is a very easy destination to get to with flights into Salt Lake City via a quick stopover in Los Angeles with many airlines to choose from. There are plenty of shuttle bus services available from Salt Lake City International Airport to get you from the airport to Park City and it’s best to reserve a seat in advance. Ubers are frequent and very reliable and once you’re in Park City, the free bus system will take you to both snow resort mountain bases, Main Street and Kimbell Junction if you enjoy outlet shopping. You really don’t need a car and using public transport is a fun and easy way to mix with locals and find out firsthand what live music, events and activities are, so don’t be shy to have a chat.
Explore more of Utah at www.visitutah.com.
with EMMA WILSON
Escape to the Mountains - Chalet Alpina, Jindabyne
Are you craving a mountain getaway?
Chalet Alpina is Jindabyne’s luxury family escape and is open
across Easter for autumn hikes, bike rides and fishing in Lake Jindabyne. Bring the family down and enjoy Thredbo’s Eas-
ter Adventure Festival in Thredbo with a treasure hunt, arts and crafts, rock climbing and face painting, Saturday 12 - Sunday 27 April, 2025. Winter bookings for Chalet Alpina are now open for the snow season, June 6th to late September. Chalet Alpina is in Jindabyne’s quiet Gippsland St, an easy stroll into town for after-skiing dinner and right across the road from the bus (winter schedule only) Jump online and reserve your room before you miss out. www.chaletalpina.com.au
Memphis, your music bucket-list
Soulful music attractions, cool and creative hotels, vibrant nightlife and some of the best BBQ in the world. These are just some of the reasons travellers should visit the Home of Blues, Soul & Rock’n’Roll.Now, there’s a range of new hotels and restaurants opening and fun events taking place in 2025 that make the destination a must-travel for Aussies.
• A recently opened Aloft Hotel in Downtown with a golf course and rooftop
• A refurbished haunted hotel
• New tiki-inspired cocktail bar and a fine dining venue
• Big celebrations around both Elvis Presley’s and B.B. King’s birthdays
• Summer festivals and rooftop parties that are a must during a trip to Memphis
DON’T MISS Elvis Presley’s 90th Birthday (January): The former home turned museum, Graceland puts on a series of events to celebrate the late King’s birthday, including a new exhibit with 90 curated artifacts available for the duration of 2025.
Explore more of Memphis: www.memphistravel.com
ASnow Action magazine relaunched
USTRALIA’S premier snow publication, in print for over 27 years is relaunching May 2025 with a fresh look and an increased focus on women as skiers, snowboarders, travellers and key family decision makers.
Editor Emma Wilson says: “I made this decision based on the needs of the families around me, including my own. We want to be able to decide which
destinations we’d like to take our babies, toddlers, teenagers and adult kids to, what gear and season passes to buy and we do not want the decisions to be made by just the males of the family. Gone are the days the guys go on a trip and the women stay at home - or just tag along just to ski alone all day. I’m bringing the wonderful world of snow sports up to speed to reflect what we want”.
Snow Action magazine will be available in newsagents across Australia from MidMay 2025. It will be in visitor show bags at the Sydney Snow Travel Expo at Darling Harbour’s International Convention Centre on Sunday 25 th May. Come along and discover over 70 snow destinations for your next snow trip.
MARINERS WOMEN IN BACK-TO-BACK FINALS
Consistent performers in A-League
THE Central Coast Mariners
Women have had their finals spot in the Ninja A-League confirmed, making it backto-back finals appearances for Emily Husband’s side.
The Mariners were on the end of a narrow 1-0 loss to Premiers Plate contenders Melbourne Victory in Round 22, but after Brisbane Roar dropped points in their match against Western Sydney just days later, their finals spot was mathematically confirmed with a game to spare.
Making finals for a second consecutive season since their return to the competition is another phenomenal achievement for Emily Husband and her team, who have been consistent performers in the Ninja A-League this term.
Only the top two sides Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory have conceded fewer goals than the Mariners, with a solid defence the foundation of Husband's success so far.
Husband recruited smartly after losing several key players from last season, a side which shocked many pundits to finish the
2023/24 regular season in fifth.
Both new and returning players have stepped up when it has mattered this campaign, helping secure the side a position in the post-season.
Sarah Langman has been a revelation as the number one this season, playing every minute while leading the league in save percentage. After sharing duties throughout the last campaign with the now departed Casey Dumont, Langman has made that position her own and staked her claim as one of the best goalkeepers in the competition.
In front of Langman, Jessika Nash and Taylor Ray have both excelled in their first seasons with the club. The duo is the only two Mariners outfield players yet to miss a minute of action, with Ray playing the majority of her season out of position at centre-back. Nash’s form saw her rewarded with a Matildas call-up late last year, while Ray has certainly put a strong case forward for Australian re-selection.
At the other end of the pitch, 19-year-old Mariners Academy graduate Annalise Rasmussen has continued to
progress tremendously in her second A-League season. After finding the back of the net three times in her debut campaign, the forward has comfortably beaten that tally, leading the club’s Golden Boot race.
16-year-old wonderkid Tiana Fuller has proven to be another outstanding scouting effort from Husband and her team, making waves in her first professional season. Ranked second in the league for most goals per 90 minutes, the young forward has already beaten the tally of Sam Kerr for goals scored at 16 years or younger in the A-League.
Undoubtably one of the very finest players in the Ninja A-League, any list of top performers for the Mariners Women’s team is not complete without Isabel Gomez’s name featuring.
Despite missing three months through injury, Gomez has taken a clear step up from her already spectacular 23/24 season performances. Adding further attacking flair and an eye for goal to her naturally strong defensive game, Gomez played a crucial role in our victories over Wellington and Brisbane which helped solidify our place in the top six.
Your Chance to win…
For A League Men's Central Coast Mariners v Brisbane Roar FC, on Friday 2nd May 7.35pm. And a runner-up gets 5 tickets to the game. Outdoor boxes are located on the upper-level Grandstand (Western side of Stadium) close to a small food & beverage outlet, and a short walk to main public outlets/food trucks. To enter send an email to colin@acccessnews.com. au with 25 words or less on why you like to win and fill in your details on the email. Winners will be emailed their tickets to download.
Entries close 5PM Tuesday 30th April.
Central Coast Mariners Women experiencce success again.
VAPE HONEYMOON UP IN SMOKE Changing laws around vaping
PERSONAL possession and use of vapes is not criminalised in Australia – yet.
But the situation for the manufacturers and retailers of vapes has changed as of July 2024, when the manufacture, supply and commercial possession of disposable single use vapes became unlawful.
While the tobacco wars continue in Melbourne, new criminal offences and civil penalty provisions now apply under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 as of July 2024.
Questions are being asked in some quarters about whether the rollout of the tougher laws has been properly handled.
“The government is
entitled to take such action against vapers as it sees fit but there is an obligation to make sure that people know about the changes in the law,” according to criminal law specialist Mathew Nott.
“At the moment, if you are not selling vapes out of a pharmacy, you are going to be selling vapes illegally.
“I would guarantee that you would not have to look too hard in certain parts of Sydney to find retailers unwittingly selling vapes simply because they are not aware of the change to the law.”
Vapes are battery-powered electronic cigarettes (e-cigarette) that contain nicotine and are used in place of smoking tobacco.
But the regulations state that until 30 September 2024, you will need a prescription.
However, from October 1, 2024, if you are 18 years or older you can purchase a vape from a pharmacy without a prescription. If you are under 18, you will still require a prescription subject to state and territory laws.
Under the Public Health (Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2023 amendments have also been made which have come into force from July this year.
These include plain packaging, flavours will be limited and the bans regarding tobacco advertisement will also apply to vapes.
What are the new penalties?
The penalties are set out in the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Act 2024. These reforms are targeting suppliers and manufacturers, not individuals.
This means that personal use of vapes that have been lawfully supplied and are less than the permitted quantities will not attract a criminal offence.
However, illegal suppliers will still face a range of consequences. This will differ based on the quantity of vape products.
The penalties include: Importing, manufacturing or supplying: Imprisonment of 7 years or $550, 000 or both.
Possessing as a retailer, less than commercial quantity: Imprisonment of 12 months or $55,000 or both. Possessing at least commercial quantity: Imprisonment of 2 years or $110,000 or both.
The commercial quantity from October 1, is nine vaping devices, 60 vaping accessories and 400mL of vaping substance. https:// www.tga.gov.au/sites/ default/files/2024-07/possession-and-supply-of-vaping-goods-in-australia-guidance.pdf
If you have found yourself in legal trouble regarding vape offences, contact Nott and Co Lawyers. www.nottandcolawyers.com.au
