Coast Community news #523

Central Coast Council has published a list of $30M in potential cuts to its services to replace a $16M potential shortfall if it cannot get approval to continue charging residents its stormwater drainage charge.

Council charges residents about $150 a year on average for stormwater drainage in its water rates, bringing in about $22.6M.

But under new State Government rules, Council must transfer the charge to its residential rates and can only charge $25 a year.

That would bring in about $6.6M. Big ticket items on the prospective chopping block include cutting tourism promotional activities and events such as Love Lanes and business support for a saving of $6.3M and mothballing Polytec Stadium for $1.85M.

another level of government or mothballed,” the report says.

Smaller costs could be saved with less lawn mowing on roadsides and closing boat ramps among a long list Selling carparks at

CONTRIBUTIONS TO CCN

Coast Community news (CCN) encourages “community

(forum). We

accordance with our editorial guidelines.

Material that is considered offensive, defamatory, or overtly political will not be published.

Why research-based local journalism eats memes for breakfast

EDITORIAL

It is designed not to inflame debate, but to inform it.

editorial@centralcoastnews.net

Provide at least one high-res portrait and landscape image. Do not crop, edit or add text to the images. Include a caption for the images if necessary.

Photography:

Stories and forum: sales@centralcoastnews.net

Submit any high-res photos of the Central Coast that could be used in a future editorial. A photo credit will be included with your photo.

Managing Editor: David Abrahams

Print Editor & Senior Journalist: Terry Collins

Journalists: Sue Murray, Denice Barnes, Merilyn Vale

Graphic Designer: Brad Yee

Distribution: Anthony Wagstaff

Reporters and Contributors: Cheralyn Darcey, Skaie Hull, Ivona Rose, Julie Chessman, Avery Navarro

At a time when much of the media landscape is driven by speed, outrage and clicks, there remains a quieter, more demanding form of journalism that continues to make a real difference in our communities.

Research-based local solutions reporting, done properly, takes time, resources and trust, but its impact lasts far longer than a social media snapshot.

This week, Coast Community News publishes a Tiny Homes special researched and written by Ivona Rose.

The project goes well beyond headlines, examining what tiny homes can and cannot do, how councils approach them, and where policy, regulation and community need to intersect.

Many readers will recall a similar approach taken last year in our in-depth reporting on acute homelessness by Skaie Hull.

Those articles became a reference point across the region, cited in conversations between councils, service providers and community groups.

By focusing on the extremes of irregular camping and the realities faced by people living on the margins, the reporting helped reframe the discussion from slogans to solutions.

That is the strength of research-based solutions journalism.

It does not shy away from complexity.

It asks better questions, listens longer, and returns with insights that help communities understand problems in full, not just in fragments.

Ivona’s Tiny Homes special has the potential to have a similarly lasting effect.

Housing affordability, alternative dwelling models and planning frameworks are not issues that can be solved in a comment thread or a viral post.

They require context, evidence and local understanding, exactly what independent regional journalism is best placed to provide.

The substantial article was supported by CCN’s hugely

experienced Print Editor, Terry Collins.

This project was made possible through a partnership with a philanthropic fund supported by the Local and Independent News Association, giving CCN the additional resources needed to undertake deeper research and careful analysis.

It is a reminder that quality journalism is not free, but it is invaluable.

If you value reporting that helps create real change, and would like to discuss contributing to CCN’s research journalism fund, we invite you to get in touch.

Supporting independent local journalism is one of the most direct ways to strengthen the communities we all live in.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Top bird photos of the year

The Central Coast Group of Birding NSW has announced the winners of its 2025 Photographic Competition.

“There were 70 photos entered in the competition from 22 photographers,” spokesperson Allan Benson said.

“The standard was very high but the winners were standouts.

“A big thank you everybody who took the time and effort to enter.”

The winner of the Central Coast section was John Davis

with a brilliant shot of a Scarlet Honeyeater.

Runner-up went to Darren Ricketts with a lovely action picture of an Eastern Spinebill feeding, while third place also went to John Davis for a Grey Butcherbird in flight.

These are all common birds on the Central Coast.

The winner of the photo taken at Central Coast Wetland was Tricia Sweet with a charming picture of a mother Purple Swamphen interacting with her chick.

Second place went to Bruce Ward-Smith for his shot of a Golden-headed Cisticola, while third place was awarded to John Davis for an Olive-backed Oriole.

The winning entry was most appropriate as Purple Swamphens are the most common birds at the Wetlands.

In the outing and campout category, the winner was Leeanne Lemke for a group of Sharp-tailed Sandpipers taken at Weir Rd, Terabla, in 2025.

Second place went to David Lamont for his

of a Long-billed

for his

The winners received a $50 prize with the Central Coast Wetlands section prize donated by the Central Coast Wetland Board.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Women of Wyoming

The Wyoming Community Centre is inviting nominations for the Women of Wyoming awards, set to recognise women who live, work or volunteer in Wyoming and North Gosford in appreciation of International Women’s Day on March 8.

Nominate a woman in your life who you would like to see acknowledged for her contribution before February24.

Nominees will be acknowledged at a special event from 5-6.30pm on Monday, March 9, at the health centre in Maidens Brush Rd, Wyoming.

For details call 4323 7483 or go to www.surveymonkey. com/r/WomenofWyoming

Traffic change

There will changed overnight traffic conditions on Henry Parry Dr at the intersections with Donnison and William Sts in Gosford from February11- March 26.

Work will be carried out to upgrade traffic lights at the intersections from 8pm to 5am.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Work starts on controversial Blue Lagoon stairs

Construction on two sets of new stairs at Blue Lagoon Beach reserve is underway with work expected to be finished by June this year.

The project will restore safe access to the popular recreational area after Central Coast Council demolished the original stairs due to safety concerns.

Council is undertaking the $514,255 project after receiving $245,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said he was pleased Council had secured funding.

“I’m glad to see the construction of the stairs at Blue Lagoon Beach begin thanks to the support of the NSW Government,” he said.

“It’s great to be bringing back access to one of our beautiful beaches.

“After careful planning and design, the two new sets of stairs will make it safer for the community to get to Blue Lagoon Beach again.

“These stairs are designed to

last and handle tough weather events.

“If all goes well, they should be finished by June 2026.”

Members of the community group Save Our Stairs (SOS) who campaigned to have the stairs restored have welcomed the start of work.

“We are delighted to see construction of the Crown Land access stairs has begun,” SOS member Judy Townsend said.

“Thank you Central Coast Council, our community reserve is one step closer to being back in use.”

Member for The Entrance

Mehan said Blue Lagoon Beach was a treasured part of the local identity and he was pleased to see the infrastructure delivered.

“The community fought long and hard on this campaign to see stairs removed by Council and returned,” Mr Mehan said.

“I am pleased the new stairs will provide safe access and support the long-term enjoyment of this beautiful reserve.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said Crown reserves were at the “heart of communities, offering spaces for recreation, connection and conservation”.

“Through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, we’re proud to support Central Coast Council in restoring safe access to Blue Lagoon Beach, ensuring locals and visitors alike can continue to enjoy this iconic stretch of coastline for generations to come,” Mr Kamper said.

Residents are being advised to stay away from the impacted area and remain behind any barriers that Council crews or contractors put in place.

Residents are also encouraged to stay up-to-date by checking Council’s website or Facebook page for updates. For more information on the project search ‘Blue Lagoon stairs’ at centralcoast. nsw,gov.au

Fate of Wamberal seawall hangs in the balance

Then fate of three development applications submitted for one continuous seawall at Wamberal Beach remains in the balance with a decision expected in days from the Regional Planning Panel.

After spending almost three hours listening to public submissions on February 4, the panel went behind closed doors to debate.

Chair Alison McCabe confirmed that the panel’s decision would be one of two available options – to refuse, as recommended by Central Coast Council, or to defer the determination, pending the supply of more information already requested by Council.

Ms McCabe said the panel would not be able to approve the applications, with one reason being some landowners’ consents had not been provided.

The decision document will outline the panel’s reasons for whatever decision it makes and will be uploaded to the State Planning Portal. It has not been uploaded as we went to print.

The three DAs for one continuous seawall attracted more than 3,000 submissions when they were on public exhibition.

The Central Coast Council staff report to the panel recommended rejection of all three DAs for a number of reasons.

The first was that the DAs do not have approval from all landowners involved.

Also, requests for further information did not result in specialist consultant reports/ plans but the applicant wanted

to defer matters to a detailed design stage.

The report said this was not considered satisfactory given the scale of the proposed development.

Other reasons for rejection included: a lack of detail for ongoing maintenance or endof-life decommissioning, edge effects, the absence of physical modelling, the absence of a construction management

plan, unsatisfactory public safety in a storm event, the stability of the wall design, lack of finished sand level details and “the absence of renders for the post-storm and typical accreted conditions”.

“Council’s coastal engineering referral has determined that sand nourishment is required as a result of the proposed development,” the report said.

“The development application does not provide for the required initial sand nourishment and significantly underestimates the ongoing sand nourishment required.”

The issue of erosion at Wamberal Beach and its effect on beachfront homes has been contentious for decades.

While under administration in October 2022, Central Coast Council adopted The Wamberal Beach Terminal Protection Structure Engineering Design Requirements, providing the

Investigation into ‘forever chemicals’

minimum standards homeowners are required to follow when implementing private walls through the DA system.

In April 2025, while on the Central Coast, Premier Chris Minns said the State would not sign up as a landowner to give permission for a seawall on its land.

On July 1, emergency works were carried out at the beach in anticipation of an East Coast Low.

In recent months, the elected councillors have adopted a resolution to develop, in consultation with private landowners, an alternative design for a medium/long term remediation works at Wamberal.

Meanwhile, planning proposals for new homes or renovations at Wamberal continue to be put forward without relying on the proposed seawall for protection.

Central Coast Council has confirmed it is investigating the detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in raw water samples taken from the upper reaches of the Ourimbah Creek catchment.

The discovery has sparked a multi-agency response involving the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and NSW Health to identify the source of the contamination.

The issue was highlighted following a special ABC investigation into the prevalence of these “forever chemicals” across NSW.

The ABC’s report raised significant questions regarding the transparency of water testing and the potential for historic land uses, such as landfills and firefighting activities, to impact local drinking water sources.

According to Council data, while low levels of PFAS were detected in the raw, untreated water of the catchment, the treated water supplied to Central Coast households remains safe and fully compliant with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Authorities have moved to reassure the community that the contaminated raw water

source is not currently being drawn into the direct supply for the regional water network.

A primary focus of the ongoing

Minister for the Central Coast, Member for Wyong David Harris has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement this week that illegal e-bikes will be seized and crushed to stop the use of high-powered and doctored bikes that perform more like motorbikes than bicycles.

“We’ve heard loud and clear the concern in the Central Coast community and across the state about souped-up e-bikes and the anti-social behaviour that seems to go hand in hand with them,” Mr Harris said.

“So the Government’s response is loud and clear: If you are breaking the rules, and

investigation is the Mangrove Mountain landfill.

The EPA recently stepped up monitoring at the site after

detections were found in nearby Stringy Bark Creek.

In May 2025, Coast Community News reported that the EPA issued a prevention notice to the landfill’s operator, requiring a comprehensive leachate study to determine if the site is the origin of the PFAS plume.

Other potential sources being considered include historic emergency responses and the use of legacy firefighting foams in the area from a truck fire in the year 2000.

PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals prized for their water and heat resistance but are notorious for

Illegal e-bikes to be crushed

your bike does not meet the very clear specifications of a pedal-assisted e-bike, expect it to be removed from your possession and crushed.

“Like all modes of transport, e-bikes need to be used responsibly and correctly.

“Irresponsible use and loutish behaviour like throwing things at police and riding recklessly is completely unacceptable and people doing the wrong thing will end up with a crushing result.

“We’re backing police with the tools they need.

“These safeguards are about making sure the e-bikes on our roads are legal and safe, and about stopping dangerous bikes from being handed back

only to pop up again next week. If a bike breaks the rules, it’s gone for good.”

Premier Chris Minns said the

reform drew a clear line.

“We want young people outdoors, active and enjoying their communities but we will

not tolerate illegal, highpowered e-motorbikes putting lives at risk,” he said.

Strengthened seizure and crushing powers for NSW Police will target the growing number of throttle-only, highpowered e-motorbikes that are fuelling anti-social behaviour, community frustration and serious injuries.

The Government is also investing in a number of ‘dyno units’ that measure whether the power output of an e-bike is beyond the legal maximum.

The portable test units can determine whether the e-bike’s power assistance cuts out completely at 25km/h as per the current law in NSW.

If an e-bike is found to be

not breaking down in the environment.

While the health risks at these low levels are considered low by NSW Health, the Community Environment Network (CEN) has called for “absolute transparency” and more frequent testing of all creeks surrounding the landfill.

Central Coast Council says it is taking a “proactive approach” and will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.

Residents concerned about their private bores or local water quality can access the latest monitoring results via the Council’s website.

non-compliant at the roadside, police will be empowered to crush the bike to ensure it does not return to the road.

Not all e-bikes sold in shops are legal on our streets.

The Government is asking parents to double-check before buying an e-bike for their child. Many devices being marketed as e-bikes are in fact illegal electric motorbikes, with throttle operation without pedalling above 6km/h, excessive power output or modified speed limiters.

If a device does not meet NSW’s legal definition of a pedal-assisted e-bike, it can be seized and crushed even if it was bought in error.

The housing crisis: could

Interest in tiny homes is increasing on the Central Coast and across Australia, driven by soaring house prices, lack of housing availability, shifts toward sustainable living, downsizing, dwindling available land, and the growth of short-stay rentals like Airbnb.

Social media is full of slick, high-end tiny home ads. Can tiny homes play a meaningful role in affordable housing, and where can people locate them?

Back in 2021, Griffith University took a closer look at the trend in its research article “Tiny houses: movement or moment?”

Co-Author Dr Heather Shearer said tiny houses were by no means the solution to the housing crisis, but they could help with easing affordability pressures for certain demographics, such as singles, women over 55, and young couples.

But she said adoption was slowed by complicated, inconsistent council rules across the country.

Just what are tiny homes?

Complexities begin with the

definition of tiny homes and extend to considerations of how and where to place these fixed or mobile structures in the housing mix.

“Tiny homes are not defined in NSW legislation but are considered as either buildings, manufactured homes or caravans, which have clear approval pathways,” a spokesperson for the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure said.

He said councils could approve tiny homes through the relevant approval pathway.

But a spokesperson for Central Coast Council said it was very difficult to give any specific advice on planning pathways because the planning legislation had not separately contemplated ‘tiny homes’ as a specific form of development.

He said Council had no particular restrictions above the standard NSW legislation.

The spokesperson said socalled “tiny homes” could fall under several different planning definitions, depending on how they were built and used.

They may be classed as a secondary dwelling on an existing residential lot, limited

to 50sqm, a dual occupancy if scale and size allow, or a dwelling on a trailer, which may be registered under the Road Transport Act and assessed differently for planning and services.

Some may fit manufactured home or manufactured home estate rules, while others could be assessed as multi-unit housing, boarding houses, or group homes.

NSW planning law defines affordable housing separately.

Advocacy agency The Australian Tiny House Association recognises Tiny Houses on Wheels (THOW) and Tiny Houses on Skids (THOS) as moveable dwellings and says legislation varies from state to state.

Their Tiny House Construction Guide outlines minimum requirements for the design and construction of movable tiny houses.

Based on their current advice, NSW allows up to two moveable dwellings, such as caravans or tents, on a property for short stays of up to 48 hours at a time, for a maximum of 60 days a year, without council approval.

Only one caravan (or tiny home, which is generally

classified as a caravan) may be used for long-term living if there is already an approved dwelling on the property and if the caravan is kept in a “safe and healthy condition”.

Local THOW provider Ben Robinson of Ben’s Got Wood is calling for consistency in planning.

“The biggest challenge I see isn’t the build itself, but the lack of clear, consistent planning frameworks, which creates uncertainty for both owners and councils,” he said.

Regulations are clearer for secondary dwellings, commonly known as granny flats.

“A small second home built on the same block as an existing house is permitted in many residential zones,” the Council spokesperson said.

“It must meet setback requirements, be no larger than 60sqm, and can be approved as complying development on lots of at least 450sqm.”

At Narara Ecovillage, Tiny Houses on Wheels have solved multiple problems.

Spokesperson Jo Hunt said residents used them as temporary homes while building, as extra

accommodation for visiting family, or as contingency housing during events like COVID isolation. One tiny home has even been bought and sold within the community.

“The specs range from pretty niche and recycled to decked out with Smeg kitchen appliances,” she said.

From her experience, sewerage connection is one of the biggest hurdles for tiny homes.

“If a tiny home and its parking space are included upfront in a development application, with sewer connections shown on approved plans, plumbers will connect it,” she said.

But problems arise when a tiny home is added later.

She said councils do not then have an appropriate pathway to inspect an open trench for a sewer connection, even if the house’s pipes already exist.

“Alternative approvals, like Section 68, have failed to date because councils consider Section 68 applications applicable only to modular buildings, not tiny homes, which are technically caravans, leaving them stuck in a grey area with no clear approval pathway.”

Another local-use case is The Tiny Homes Project on Racecourse Rd, Gosford. Completed in 2018, it includes five manufactured homes managed through a partnership between Central Coast Council, Pacific Link Housing and Coast Shelter.

The property is a youthspecific refuge providing shortterm crisis accommodation for people aged 16-25.

Coast Shelter CEO Alicia Pigot said it created a pathway for long-term housing stability.

“We utilise the tiny homes under a subsidised housing lease arrangement for 12 months, developing these young people’s independent living skills and their rental history,” she said.

She said expanding the program, which would be particularly helpful for single women who represented a growing segment of the homeless community, was unlikely due to constraints on land availability and development approvals.

“We are lucky to access the property for a period of time through Council, but a lot of pieces had to fall into place,” she said.

tiny homes be the solution?

“It requires partnerships with state and federal governments, as well as organisations like The Tiny Homes Foundation, which built the homes.”

Dr Sarah Breen Lovett, Senior Lecturer at The University of Newcastle, School of Architecture and Built Environment, highlighted the limitations.

“Living in smaller spaces is something that we all need to be thinking about doing, but at the moment in Australia, there is a trend towards tiny houses or McMansions,” she said.

“A tiny house is a glorified caravan, sometimes architecturally designed, overspecified in terms of structure and materials, with the idea in mind that you don’t have to get a DA, but there is no way of getting around approvals.”

Instead, she thinks the solutions lie in subdivision laws.

“People would often prefer to sell off their land and then let someone else build on it, but access can only be given once the property is built,” she said.

“If there were a relaxation of rules so that you could subdivide with a DA-approved

design, allowing the buyer to do the build, this would release a lot of land and burden, particularly with older members of the community who have larger yards than they need.”

Local investment property authority Tony Myers said many homeowners and investors turned to apartments simply because there were few other small-dwelling options available on the Central Coast, largely due to limited land supply.

“They don’t have a problem with the size of the living space,” he said.

“What they’re really looking for is a small parcel of land and more privacy than apartment living allows.”

Dr Hugo Moline, Lecturer in the School of Architecture and Built Environment at the University of Newcastle, says tiny homes have a role to play, but they are probably only suited to specific phases of life, and current backyard granny flat designs often limit the original and secondary dwellings.

“The Driveway House Project looked at creative design on

driveways to circumvent this,” he said.

He said the approach of gentle density identified lot-bylot opportunities to insert new homes in creative ways, such as building above garages or elevating existing houses to create a secondary dwelling underneath.

“(Owners of) larger residential lots, such as corner blocks, could also be encouraged and incentivised to host permanent small homes or mobile tiny houses,” he said.

He said many caravan parks that traditionally offered opportunities for these types of movable and semi-permanent dwellings had been bought by larger holiday park franchises, which tended to move people on in favour of holidaymakers.

As mobile dwellings, tiny homes could be placed on temporarily unused land, including sites that are landbanked or held while larger developments await approval, as well as on suitable councilor state-owned land.

This approach could enable

is the missing link between affordable construction and accessible home ownership,” she said.

Dr Shearer of Griffith University offers a final solution.

“Permitting owners of Tiny Houses On Wheels, Tiny Houses On Skids and caravans to let space on private property for at least two years, subject to overlays, will allow many to live in areas close to education, medical facilities and transport,” she said.

housing co-operatives and allow people to self-develop affordable housing solutions on shared land.

At the national level, the CEO of the Australian Tiny House Association, Danielle Lester, says that struggles to obtain development approvals stem from tiny homes not fitting neatly within National Construction Code pathways, which prevents them from being recognised as permanent dwellings.

“Defining transportable small-dwelling parking spaces

A spokesperson for the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure said the NSW Government was working to unlock more diverse homes in well-located areas to suit different lifestyles across the whole community.

But no further details were provided on how tiny homes would be addressed in that work.

Federal government representatives, from both the government and the opposition, did not respond to requests for comment.

Enjoy the good life

What better way to open your next chapter than settling into a brand new apartment at Tarragal Glen Retirement Village.

With every detail purposefully designed and quality finishes at every turn, Tarragal Glen Apartments offer a living experience without compromise. Book

Finalist for Young Woman of the Year

Planning for a waterbus service on the Central Coast took a step forward recently, when members of the WaterBUS Initiative steering committee met with Minister for the Central Coast, Member for Wyong David Harris to brief him on the project’s progress.

WaterBUS Initiative Inc is a not-for-profit organisation driven by local volunteers drawing inspiration from the vision of respected master mariner and long-time resident

Layne Paull of North Avoca has been named as a finalist in the Young Woman of the Year category at the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.

Now in its 14th year, the awards program shines a light on extraordinary individuals across the state who are improving lives, driving innovation, strengthening communities and inspiring future generations.

Ms Paull is a young leader with a passion for inclusion, innovation and community service.

As Inclusion Nippers Coordinator for North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club and Team

Leader for the Disabled Surfers Association, she has developed programs that make aquatic environments welcoming for people of all abilities.

She also volunteers at Amputees NSW’s AMP CAMP, inspiring participants to build confidence and resilience.

As a disability support worker, Ms Paull designs personalised strategies to enhance clients’ skills and independence.

She aspires to advance assistive technology and inclusive design, and is currently studying biomedical engineering at the University of Technology Sydney.

She was awarded the Women in Engineering Scholarship

2025 by Engineers Australia. Minister for the Central Coast, Member for Wyong David Harris said her tireless efforts in disability inclusion, innovation and community service were inspirational, and she was more than worthy to be a NSW Young Woman of the Year finalist.

“I join all Coasties in congratulating Layne,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge Professor Tracey O’Brien, a finalist for the NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence and NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year finalists Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner, Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley and Sharon Winsor, all of whom I

Waterbus planning forges ahead

of the Peninsula, the late John Highton.

“The initiative aligns closely with the NSW Government’s statewide objective to curb single-occupancy vehicle use in regional areas,” a spokesperson said.

“This is being pursued by expanding more attractive public transport options and encouraging active transport modes such as walking and cycling.

“Emerging electric hydrofoil technology stands out as the only transport solution capable of truly rivalling the convenience

of private cars, while also supporting active transport principles.

“Beyond user appeal, the technology promises substantial savings for ferry operators by dramatically cutting two of their biggest costs: fuel and maintenance.

“After productive discussions with Transport for NSW last year, the group engaged a transport planner to develop a detailed scope and deliverables for a feasibility study.

“The proposed study focuses on two pilot routes: Woy Woy to

Gosford and Woy Woy to Hardys Bay.”

The spokesperson said the key remaining challenge was securing funding for the feasibility study, which fell outside existing State Government grant categories.

“The WaterBUS team remains committed to delivering a fast, clean, and affordable water transport network for the Central Coast, with strong community backing and growing regional interest,” the spokesperson said.

To find out more visit www.waterbus.au

have had the privilege of working with in my other Ministerial portfolios.

“The calibre of women nominated for the NSW Women of the Year Awards couldn’t be higher and I congratulate each and every one of them.”

Recipients in each of the five award categories will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday, March 5, at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.

This is the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026, to be held from March 2 to International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8.

Elsie’s very special 100th birthday

Older Women’s Network (OWN) Deepwater stalwart

Elsie Alford celebrated her 100th birthday on February 6 with a special luncheon at Everglades Country Club.

Mrs Alford is a much loved and respected member of OWN who organised the birthday celebrations where Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch made a surprise visit to congratulate

Mrs Alford and to share some birthday cake on the day.

Mrs Alford was described as a remarkable woman who still lives in her own home, cooks for herself and tends her beloved garden.

During World War II, Mrs Alford was trained as a weather observer in the RAF and stationed in Stornaway in the Outer Hebrides.

After the war, she took the first Constellation flight from England to Sydney with her cousin in 1947.

While her cousin returned to England, Mrs Alford went on to make a life for herself in Australia, marrying another returned WW2 veteran, then going to have two children, Geoffrey and Miranda.

Mrs Alford has many close

friends in OWN and members described her as a constant example and fountain of information.

Mrs Alford credits the branch as essential in the battle to combat loneliness within the ranks of older women in the community and she is an enormous supporter of the branch’s fundraising efforts to combat food insecurity and homelessness.

Stadium and Wyong Pool on potential Council hit list

From page 1

It says residents won’t pay more with the change.

But, as the resident points out in a letter already sent to IPART, residents were due to pay less.

The resident says Council is being disingenuous because the new State Government rules means residents are set to pay less for drainage when the charge disappears from water bills and reappears in the rates bill.

They said the letter residents got just before Christmas and

other public information about the SV obscures the big picture.

“In my opinion, Council cries wolf on the financial risks to Council of not submitting the SV,” they said.

Community consultation late last year showed the majority of respondents opposed the proposed transfer and also indicated a high level of dissatisfaction with current service standards.

The proposal attracted the highest number of submissions received for any project consultation this financial year

but it was still less than 1% of the population.

Council said it was “reasonable to assume” that it was “potentially reflective of a level of community indifference on the basis that the proposal to transfer an existing fee would not increase costs to the ratepayer as a direct result of the transfer”.

The SV means Council now has two requests for price increases with IPART.

The second one is for an increase in the water rates by 8.6% for large households plus

CPI which it estimated at 2.9% for a total increase of 11.5% for large households and 11.1% for medium households.

For small houses, units and apartments, there would be a 9.5% increase.

At the same time, the latest quarterly survey from IPART published on January 29 shows Council has not improved its customer satisfaction rate for more than four years.

IPART surveys the Central Coast four times a year speaking with 100 customers each time.

Both “value for money” and “trust” have fallen again compared with last quarter.

“Overall satisfaction” and “reputation” are unchanged from the previous quarter.

Resident Kevin Brooks said water rates have risen more than 50% in four years because IPART naively bought Council’s claim this would lead to improved performance.

“These survey results show we’ve had the price hike, but not the promised performance improvement,” Mr Brooks said.

“Now Council is trying to pull the same trick again, asking IPART to approve another 11+% price hike next year and once again promising improved performance.

“It would be incredibly naïve of IPART to be fooled again.

“They should reject the submission and tell Council prices have already gone up enough, and it is now time to make good previous promises to improve performance, efficiency and productivity.”

Merilyn Vale

Coast Connect

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Have your say on disability inclusion

Inclusion and opportunity for people living with disability is a priority for Council. Our vision is to ensure everyone can participate fully, move around with ease and enjoy employment opportunities.

That’s why we’ve developed our draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030 (DIAP). This four-year plan sets out the practical steps we can take to make our community more accessible and inclusive.

Input from people living with disability, support organisations in the disability sector, Council staff and reference groups have helped to shape this plan, and we thank everyone who contributed.

The actions in the plan aim to help foster positive attitudes, create liveable, accessible spaces for all, support meaningful employment opportunities and improve access to services.

We’re now asking people to review the draft plan and let us know if it truly reflects people’s needs and aspirations.

The public exhibition for our DIAP is open until Monday 2 March. You can have your say through Your Voice Our Coast, by viewing a copy at Council’s customer service centres or libraries or by attending an Auslan interpreted workshop on Wednesday 18 February from 10am-1pm at Gosford Regional Library.

An Easy Read version of this plan can also be found on Your Voice Our Coast by searching for ‘DIAP’

Visit yourvoiceourcoast.com for more information, or email engagement@ centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Mayor Lawrie McKinna

The next Council meeting will be held at Wyong on Tuesday 24 February at 6.30pm. Search ‘Council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Nominations now open for 2026 Youth Week Awards

Know a young person making a positive impact in the community?

Nominations are now open for the Youth Week Awards, which recognise outstanding contributions by local young people aged 12 to 24.

There are 11 categories to choose from. Learn more and submit a nomination by 1 March 2026!

Search ‘Youth Week Awards’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Blue Lagoon Beach stair construction is underway

We’re pleased to see the commencement of the construction of the stairs to restore safe access to Blue Lagoon Beach. These works are designed to ensure resilience against future weather events. With works anticipated to be complete by June 2026, please remain behind any barriers that Council crews or contractors have put in place.

For more information, search ‘Blue Lagoon’ online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Lakes Festival 2026 EOI now open

Local businesses and community groups are invited to help shape the 2026 Lakes Festival program, running 6-15 November. Join us in celebrating the Coast’s waterways, culture and community. All your ideas are welcome, no matter how big or small. Now’s the time to register your interest!

For more information, search ‘Lakes Festival EOI 2026’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

West Gosford major sewer rising main upgrade starting soon

This $21.2 million project will upgrade over 2,250 metres of pipework from the back of the Gosford Racecourse along Narara Creek, past the golf course and finishing at the Gosford Showground carpark, improving service reliability and environmental protection. The project is expected to finish around mid-2027.

Search ‘West Gosford major sewer rising main’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Gosford City Car Park cashless

From 2 March, Gosford City Car Park (levels 1-5) and the Pay By Plate Parking Area (ground level) will move to cashless payments only. This change forms part of the Smart Technology upgrade and reflects current customer behaviour, with cash now used for a small proportion of transactions.

To learn more, search ‘Gosford City Car Park works’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Don’t miss the 2026 Seniors Festival

This year’s calendar is bigger and better with over 70 events for you to participate in.

With the theme ‘Live Life in Colour’, the festival will run across the Central Coast from 2-15 March, with the annual Seniors Expo taking place on Thursday 5 March at Wyong Racecourse.

For the full program, go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/ seniorsfestival

Long awaited dredging works will start at Tuggerah Lake next week, after Chair of the Coastal, Estuary and Floodplain Risk Management SubCommittee, Councillor Rachel Stanton, moved a motion to provide one of the largest allocations to dredging in the region’s history.

Council allocated $1.2M from its 2025-2026 Budget toward dredging the lake, after years of inaction and an increased number of flood events in recent years.

“I have been steadfast in my commitment to the community to dredge the lake and getting the funding last year was the first step,” Cr Stanton said.

Tuggerah Lake dredging to begin

“I’m very excited to finally announce the dredge will return to the lake in just

Shovels have hit the ground as work begins on a new public preschool to be constructed within the grounds of Umina Beach Public School.

Relocated from the site originally chosen following community safety concerns, the preschool will offer a highquality play-based early learning program, support childrens’ transition into kindergarten and schooling, as well as ease pick up and drop off for parents with older students at the same school.

In addition to state-of-the-art learning areas, it will include staff facilities, a kitchen, toilet facilities and landscaped outdoor areas and will be open by early 2027.

tonnes will be dredged to mitigate flooding and improve waterflow, with the sand being

placed at The Entrance North for coastal erosion protection.

As part of the works, Council will also establish a pilot channel for proactive flood mitigation, should any periods of wet weather arise in months to come.

“The 2026 dredging program will aim to realign the current channel configuration by cutting a main channel from northwest to southeast through the sand shoals to reduce velocity in the ebb channel that is eroding the northern shoreline,” Cr Stanton said.

“Council is fully funding the works and will remove an amount of sand almost twice the weight of the entire population of the Central Coast, highlighting the scale of what we are undertaking.”

First sod turned on new Umina preschool

It is one of 100 new public preschools to be built in the state thanks to a $769M investment by the NSW Government.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch shared the community’s excitement at the turning of the first sod.

“I know how invested our community is in the opening of this project and I stand beside them in anticipation of the opening of this vital community asset,” she said.

“The 100 new public preschools program shows that the Minns Labor Government is making good on our promise to improve access to high quality early learning regardless of where people live or what they earn.”

investment than

education.

“For too long, families have

Gosford City Carpark goes cashless

Gosford City Carpark (levels 1-5) and the Pay By Plate Parking Area on the ground level in Baker St will transition to cashless payments only from March 2.

The change forms part of a Smart Technology upgrade and reflects current customer behaviour, with only 2% of transactions made in cash.

Administering cash now costs more than the revenue it generates.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the change would make parking more convenient for the community.

“This transition to cashless payments will make paying for parking easier and more

convenient for everyone,” Cr McKinna said.

“Together with the Smart Technology upgrade underway, these improvements support a safer and more accessible city centre.”

From March 2, customers will be able to pay at pay stations, payment at exit points and using QR codes (Gosford City Carpark levels 1-5 only).

Clear signage and instructions will be in place throughout February to help customers prepare for the change.

Parking rates are not changing as part of the transition.

Council Director Environment and Planning Luke Nicholls said the transition supported the new technology being introduced at the site.

Council sought tenders via an open process last October and the chosen tenderer was selected on the recommendation of the evaluation panel, based on competitive pricing, proven experience and capability. The tenderer has completed past similar projects for local councils in South Sydney and for Transport for NSW up north. Councillor Stanton said this is the start of the process and she will continue to look at ways to secure further funding and explore other opportunities to mitigate flooding across Tuggerah Lake.

The dredging program is set to commence on Monday, February 16, and will go for a period of three months.

high-quality early learning close to home.

“We’re changing that, building public preschools right alongside public schools to make life easier for parents and give every child the opportunity to thrive.”

Mr Minns said the government’s investment would double the number of public preschools in the state, being the largest expansion of public early learning in NSW’s history.

Of the 100 new public preschools, 51 are in metropolitan Sydney and 49 in regional NSW, prioritised in areas of highest need based on a rigorous selection process.

“With cash now used by very few customers, moving to cashless will streamline operations and support the upgraded systems being installed,” Mr Nicholls said.

“It also removes the costs and risks associated with handling cash and will help ensure a smoother experience for customers.”

Councillors Jared Wright and Kyla Daniels, who moved the original Motion calling for the upgrade last March, have applauded the move.

“This investment is about being proactive and preparing for the future, by supporting the growth of Gosford CBD,” Cr Wright said.

“Many people from across the region avoid going to Gosford as they know it has

historically been difficult to get parking and this has created a loss of revenue for local businesses, particularly on Saturday nights and Sundays when the Baker St carpark has previously been closed.”

Cr Daniels said Gosford was continuing to grow.

“With more people moving into the area and coming into the CBD for our cafes and restaurants, these parking upgrades will make it much easier for people to enjoy the area, by getting in and out quickly and easily,” she said.

A separate amenities upgrade will also begin in March, including improved bathrooms and accessibility features. For more information, search ‘Gosford City Carpark works’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

For life minded people

FORUM & ON THE BEAT

Something must be done about illegal parking

I was very interested to read of the problem of illegal parking for residents at Point Rd, Mooney Mooney (CCN 520).

We have a similar issue with a trailer, a boat and a number of caravans parked at East Gosford in Althorpe St between Coburg and Russell Sts.

A number of these items have been parked there for at least two years, probably more.

One caravan is absent for about one month a year.

One item has not moved in more than two years.

The side of the street abutting Hylton-Moore Oval has no footpath.

Pedestrians can walk along a

FORUM

Read more forum on our website by scanning the QR code or visit coastcommunitynews.com.au/forum

section of the road which is marked by a white line to separate this part of the road from the actual road used by vehicles.

However, due to all these items being parked in the area used by pedestrians, walkers and parents with prams are forced out onto the road to get around the abandoned items. This street is a high traffic area.

I have written to the Council many times asking them to use the provisions of the Public Spaces (Unattended Property ) Act which was also mentioned

in the article.

Council’s response was that as the owners live nearby to the items left in the street, no action can be taken as the items are not considered to be abandoned.

Unfortunately, it would seem that Council is supported in this view by the Department of Planning and Environment Guidelines ( 2023) to Councils on how to interpret this Act.

As such, perhaps it is time for affected residents including those at Mooney Mooney to lobby their local member of State Parliament to have the

legislation amended to set strict time lines for leaving such items unused in public places, especially in streets where pedestrians are put at risk of serious injury if they are hit by a vehicle trying to get around these items.

Email, Jan 27

Michael Roberts, East Gosford Tips should be free

Time and time again we hear of people dumping rubbish that the Council has to clean up – eventually. It’s all because people don’t want to have to pay to go to the tip.

Some time back it used to be free to take your rubbish to the tip.

Since that changed, dumping

ON THE BEAT

Police raids locate guns and drugs

Raptor Squad has seized nine unauthorised firearms, ammunition and a commercial quantity of prohibited drugs following raids on the Central Coast.

Strike Force Bancroft was established by the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad to investigate the supply of drugs and possession of firearms by the Nomads Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG).

Following inquiries, Raptor Squad North officers conducted firearm prohibition orders (FPOs) compliance checks at homes in Halekulani and Cameron Park, allegedly seizing ammunition and prohibited drugs.

At about 9.30am on Tuesday, February 3, officers were notified of a single vehicle

crash on the Pacific Hwy, San Remo, where a man was seen running from the scene with a black bag.

Officers, with the assistance of the Dog Squad, searched the area and found two black bags, allegedly containing a case

with two pistols and a large amount of methylamphetamine and MDMA.

A short time later, Raptor Squad North officers conducted a crime scene warrant at a home in San Remo.

During the search, officers

allegedly seized seven more firearms, ammunition, commercial quantities of prohibited drugs, two pill presses, drug paraphernalia and about $6,500 in cash.

Following extensive inquires detectives returned to the property at about 10am on Wednesday, February 4, and arrested a 24-year-old man.

He was taken to Wyong Police Station where multiple charges were laid.

The 24-year-old man was refused bail before his appearance in court.

Anyone with information that might assist investigations into organised criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

High demand for Marine Rescue

Lake Macquarie recorded the highest number of Marine Rescue missions for Northern NSW Coast during January on 77, followed by Port Stephens with 34, and Brisbane Water, 28.

Sinking vessels, numerous missing person searches, EPIRB activations and 19 medical emergencies, including cardiac arrests, made up a wide range of incidents responded to by volunteers from Marine Rescue NSW during January.

Volunteers were in high demand right across NSW, completing 668 search-andrescue missions, including 162 emergency responses and the

safe return of 1,644 people to shore.

The local breakdown of those figures reveals 181 search and rescue missions were conducted in the Central Coast and Hunter division, including 37 emergency responses with 433 people safely returned to shore.

Crews also carried out more than 50 assists to grounded vessels statewide, which Marine Rescue Acting Deputy Commissioner Dan Duemmer said were largely avoidable.

He said boaters must be aware of tides,their surrounding environment and prevailing conditions, urging them to properly prepare by consulting

is a problem everywhere.

Is it really better for councils to pick up illegal dumping than to let people go to the tip themselves for free?

Email, Feb 1

Kay Donaldson, Hamlyn Terrace Council not doing its job

I am a concerned citizen of Tuggerah.

We have roads overgrown with vegetation and overgrown dog parks.

Sewage seems to be spilling into creeks where kids fish and there is a lack of development in the area.

Council is undertaking approximately 20 projects to rectify the water sewerage system, but I don’t trust this and I believe Chittaway Public

School students are at risk.

Newcastle university is diving around Norah Head to explore pollution problems for the EPA. Fibro roofs in the area are spreading fibres, we are a dumping ground for the homeless and we need more community safety cameras. I applied to speak at the public forum prior to the Council meeting on January 27 but was denied.

Local MPs are blind in my opinion.

Our Council is not doing its job and needs to be held accountable.

Email, January 27 John Cranfield, Tuggerah

Editor’s note: Speakers at the public forum prior to Council meetings can talk only on agenda items up for consideration that night.

ON THE BEAT BRIEFS

Three teens charged over break-in and pursuit

Three teenagers will face court charged following an alleged break and enter and a pursuit on Monday, February 9.

Police were called to a home at Macmasters Beach, at about 2.40am, following reports a group had allegedly entered the home before stealing a knife, keys and a garage remote.

At about 2.50am, police attempted to stop a vehicle on Cochrane St, Kincumber, allegedly stolen from a home in Hamlyn Terrace on Sunday, February 8.

When the driver allegedly failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated.

local charts and speaking with Marine Rescue before launching in unfamiliar territory.

“Our radio operators are the backbone of Marine Rescue NSW. Their skill and knowledge are invaluable in assisting boaters on the state’s waterways,” Duemmer said.

During January, Marine Rescue NSW radio operators managed almost 27,000 calls and monitored 33,646 people on board vessels that had Logged On.

Boaters can Log On 24/7 via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF Channel 16 to monitor a vessel’s safe return, and if a boater becomes overdue, a search can be initiated.

The pursuit continued before coming to a stop in Astley St, Gorokan, where the car crashed into a bollard.

After a short foot pursuit,

police arrested the alleged driver – a 15-year-old boy –and two occupants, girls aged 14.

A male passenger exited the vehicle and could not be located.

During a search of the vehicle, police allegedly located and seized a knife, keys and a garage remote.

The driver was charged with various offences and refused bail to appear before a children’s court.

The two passengers were charged with being carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.

One was refused bail to appear before a children’s court, while the other was granted strict conditional bail to appear before a children’s court on Thursday, February 26.

In court over alleged child approach

A man was refused bail until his court appearance over an alleged child approach.

At about 8.30am on Tuesday, February 3, a child was riding her bike along Ocean Beach Rd, Umina Beach, when she noticed a man allegedly following her.

The girl called for help and a passerby stopped their vehicle and intervened, chasing the man from the scene.

A 44-year-old man was arrested a short time later and taken to Gosford Police Station, where he was charged with various offences.

Revue-style comedy at The Art House

Silent Partner Creative Productions will bring their new comedy theatre show, Retired Laughing, to The Art House at Wyong on February 24 and 25.

The revue-style comedy for “people of a certain age” is packed with sketches, songs

and jokes to resonate with the retired.

It brings together an all-star cast of veteran comedy performers: Kim Lewis (Sons and Daughters, Senior Moments), David Callan (Theatresports, Senior Moments), Nicola Parry (Thank God You’re Here, Senior

Moments), Terry Hansen (The Children), and Daniel Cordeaux (Thank God You’re Here, Theatresports).

Loaded with laughs, witty one-liners, and light-hearted lunacy, Retired Laughing is an absolute crowd-pleaser for the slightly older crowd.

It’s 90 minutes of good clean

fun, frivolity and foolishness for people who understand that growing older doesn’t mean growing up.

“As you get older, you understand that laughter really is the best medicine, and this show dispenses a healthy overdose,” show creator and

producer Kevin Brumpton (Senior Moments) said.

“If your funny bone is playing up, come along and get some comic relief.”

Director Ed Wightman (Fawlty Towers Live) said Retired Laughing was the ultimate comedy retirement package.

“Life’s too short,” he said.

“We want people to take a break from retirement living and enjoy some retirement laughing.”

The show will play The Art House at 2pm and 7pm on Tuesday, February 24, and Wednesday, February 25. Book tickets at www. thearthousewyong.com.au

Jazz trio launches debut album

Central Coast jazz and blues trio The OB3 will mark a significant milestone with the launch of its debut album on Wednesday, February 18, at the Ocean Beach Hotel, Umina Beach –the venue where the group began.

The event will celebrate the release of Wednesday Night Delights Part 1, a vibrant collection of songs from the band’s much-loved weekly residency.

Since 2023, the trio has hosted live music nights, delivering jazz and blues beyond the American songbook, interpreting contemporary songs and premiering original compositions, whilst celebrating the community that has grown around them.

Event co-ordinator Matthew Lamb said that each week, the

trio played an instrumental set, then a guest artist joined the band on stage for the second set.

“This album is really about documenting the feeling of a packed room on a Wednesday night, the band pushing each other, and the guests bringing their own magic to the stage,” he said.

Lamb, 37, from Umina Beach, is the band manager and a versatile bassist.

With a deep-rooted musical education from the Sydney Conservatorium, he brings double bass and electric bass prowess to the trio, honed over years of performing with diverse acts across several genres.

Known for his virtuosic guitar skills, 46-year-old Aaron “Baz” Flower from Blackwall is a renowned session guitarist and composer.

Throughout his career, he has

won the 2007 National Jazz Award, earned a 2013 finalist spot in the Freedman Jazz Fellowship, and his band Danaïdes won the Jarra Award in 2012.

“I’m pretty into running as well,” he said.

Completing the trio is 57-yearold Umina Beach local Toby Hall, a highly regarded drummer celebrated for his contributions to more than 30 Australian recordings and for collaborations with jazz luminaries such as Mike Nock and Vince Jones.

Hall’s international experience includes performances at prestigious festivals such as Montreal Jazz Festival and New York’s Knitting Factory.

The album was recorded over three days in 2025 at Habitat Studios in West Gosford, with the same energy and spontaneity

that audiences have come to expect at the live shows.

It captures The OB3 in full flight, showcasing the kind of musical connection that only comes from playing together week after week.

Guest vocalists Donnè Restom and Luke Gallen, who also plays saxophone, add a powerful dimension to the trio’s signature sound.

This album release is the start of a series for the band.

“Part one is us putting a flag in the ground and saying, this is what’s happening on the Coast, and it’s only getting bigger,” Lamb said.

Hear the band live from 6.30pm-9.30pm on Wednesday, February 18, at the Ocean Beach Hotel, Umina Beach. Entry is free.

360 and PEZ massive regional tour takes in Gosford

Fresh off his sold-out capital city tour this year, ARIA-winning and multiplatinum Australian rapper 360 is set to take it BACK N FORTH across regional Australia in 2026 including a performance at the Drifter’s Wharf, Gosford, on February 14.

He will be joined by special guest and long-time collaborator, PEZ.

The tour will cover 43 dates and promises to be a highenergy, career-spanning set featuring fresh and familiar fan-favourites, while also marking a full-circle moment for two of Australian hip hop’s most iconic voices.

Starting on February 5 in Tamworth, the BACK N FORTH tour will journey to every pocket of the country before closing out on June 27 in Tasmania.

Tickets for 360’s BACK N FORTH tour are on sale from www.teamwrktouring.com/ tours/360-back-n-forth-tour

Described as one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved

Off the back of the extraordinary success of his current 15 date regional BY REQUEST tour of Australia, beloved singersongwriter and musician Diesel is set to extend his epic run, adding 21 shows including a performance at Avoca Beach Theatre on February 15.

Offering a one-of-a-kind conversation between artist and audience, Diesel’s BY REQUEST tour opens the door for fans to shape the night, with the tour set to continue delivering career-spanning, hit-filled evenings powered entirely by audience requests.

“It’s a distinctly different experience when you perform a song knowing that it’s been asked for,” Diesel said.

“As I journey into my fourth decade of making music, I can’t think of a better way to

rappers, 360 erupted onto the scene in the early 2000s, going on to blaze trails, storm charts, and score multiple ARIA nominations and two wins along the way.

First turning heads with his 2008 debut album, What You See Is What You Get, it would be in 2011 that 360’s legendary status in the Australian and hip-hop zeitgeist was cemented, with his album

Falling & Flying ultimately showcasing the talented artist’s genre fluidity, emotive weight and unwavering charisma.

Peaking at number four on the ARIA Albums Chart, Falling & Flying went on to become certified double platinum, and also secured wins at the 2012 ARIA Music Awards for Breakthrough Artist – Release and Producer of the Year.

From here, 360 released 2014’s Utopia, 2017’s Vintage Modern and, most recently, his latest record Out of the Blue, which dropped earlier this year.

Debuting at number one on the ARIA Australian hip-hop albums chart, Out of the Blue offered a resounding reminder of 360’s dexterity, dynamic flow and storytelling alongside magnetic new cuts.

With his trademark

electrifying stage presence that has seen him enrapture sold-out headline crowds, captivate alongside the likes of Eminem and Kendrick Lamar, or dazzle onstage at Lollapalooza, Big Day Out and Splendour In The Grass, 360 remains one of the country’s most in demand acts and musical exports, with his most recent Out Of The Blue capital city tour entirely sold out.

He says his passion for live performances has not waned despite a lack of down time between his many performances.

“I’m so keen to hit the road again,” he said.

“It’s unusual; we’ve recently finished the capital cities tour and normally I would prefer more down time in between tours, but I noticed after about a month I was ready to go out again.

“I haven’t enjoyed touring like this in the past, so I’m stoked.

“This is going to be so fun … get me out there.

“It’s a blessing to be able to

Diesel by request tour a hit with fans

celebrate than engaging directly with the people who’ve been part of that story.”

Kicking off with three shows in Tasmania from January 30, the extended tour will then move through to NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, South Australia, the ACT and Victoria before fittingly finishing up with a hometown show at the iconic Sydney Opera House on April 26.

Tickets to the BY REQUEST 2026 tour are on sale from dieselmusic.com.au

With song choices on offer ranging from Diesel’s debut album, 1989’s Johnny Diesel & The Injectors, through to his most recent LP, Bootleg Melancholy, if the current run of shows is anything to go by, the BY REQUEST tour will likely also feature some eclectic covers from the artists that have shaped Diesel’s career.

Cavanagh

Acclaimed UK singersongwriter Robbie Cavanagh will make his long-awaited Australian debut this February and March, touring nationally in a series of solo shows and special collaborative lineups ahead of his appearance at Port Fairy Folk Festival.

As part of the tour, Cavanagh will perform free at Avoca Beach Theatre on February 21.

Known for his deep-rooted

An intimate, electric and completely audience-driven experience, the BY REQUEST tour is a bespoke affair, with a

guarantee that no two shows will be the same across the run.

“It’s safe to say, when an artist makes a set list, they are

second guessing what people want to hear most of the time,” Diesel said.

“With the BY REQUEST tour, I feel like I’m hitting the sweet spot every night when I compile a set full of songs and anecdotes, directly given to me by the people that are going to be there on the night.

“As it turns out, we like a lot of the same music – go figure.

“It has also pushed me into the deep crevices of my back catalogue, with some of my most fervent listeners shining a guiding light through these caves.”

Operating under the moniker Diesel, American-born, Aussiebased, roots rock guitarist and singer Mark Lizotte has spent decades cementing his status as one of Australia’s greatest music success stories.

First turning heads with his first band, Johnny Diesel & the

travel the country doing what I love.

“Not only seeing parts of Australia I haven’t seen before, but getting to perform to fans who haven’t seen me live before, as well as fans who haven’t seen me live in a while.

“That’s the best part of regional tours, getting to perform in areas that not many artists are coming through.

“The fans really make the most of it.”

The BACK N FORTH tour will reunite 360 with fellow local hip hop icon and bestie PEZ, with the pair’s history dating back to their earlier career days as a duo under the name Forthwrite.

“When me and PEZ are together it’s always hectic and more fun,” 360 said.

“We’ll be bringing out some of our biggest classics as well as older joints we don’t usually get to perform on our own.

“So, the set will be a fun trip down memory lane.”

Injectors, Lizotte soon launched a solo career in the 1990s, introducing the world to Diesel – and the rest truly was history. With multiple number one albums, several ARIA wins, including three consecutive wins in 1993, 1994 and 1995, Diesel has remained both a chart staple and live fanfavourite over the years. From opening for Jimmy Barnes through to recording with the likes of Terry Manning, working as a producer and multi-instrumentalist, and balancing grittier blues rock territory with moments of soul, jazz and introspective lyricism throughout his solo career, Diesel most recently expanded on his powerful discography in 2023 via the release of his 17th studio album, Bootleg Melancholy, with the album praised for its lyrical cohesion, warmth and soaring pop hues.

Avoca-bound during Australian debut tour

Americana influences, weathered vocals and emotionally rich songwriting, Cavanagh has quickly earned a reputation as one of the UK’s most compelling contemporary folk artists, drawing on classic traditions while delivering songs that feel urgent, personal and distinctly his own.

The Australian tour will see Cavanagh perform solo as well as share the stage in curated double and triple bills, connecting him with kindred

spirits from Australia and the UK.

Select shows will feature Karen Lee Andrews from Australia, Blair Dunlop the UK, and Dan Webster and Emily Lawler also the UK, offering audiences a rare chance to experience multiple acclaimed songwriters in intimate and dynamic settings.

The tour culminates with multiple performances at Port Fairy Folk Festival, March 6-8, where Cavanagh joins one of

Australia’s most respected folk gatherings, marking a major milestone in his international touring career.

Whether performing alone or alongside fellow artists, Cavanagh’s Australian debut promises a powerful introduction to a songwriter whose work blends old-soul depth with fresh perspective, an artist clearly poised among the leading voices shaping contemporary folk and Americana.

Learn how to be confident on stage

A free hands-on workshop led by TraversX, entitled Comfort and Confidence on Stage, will be the next Mix & Master event by Central Coast Music and Arts.

It will be held on February 16 between 6pm and 8pm at Avoca Beach Theatre.

The workshop draws on the lived experience of TraversX (aka Yt DiNGO) as a performer working with sound, movement, and presence.

TraversX has worked everywhere from red dirt communities to Hollywood

stages, bringing a grounded, adaptable approach shaped by many rooms, rhythms and audiences.

The workshop is suitable for all stage performers – singers, musicians, bands, actors, spoken word artists, poets, dancers and more, who want to feel confident, connected and at ease on stage.

At the core of the session is joining the rhythm of a space and learning how to create within it.

Rather than pushing nerves away, the work focuses on moving imposter syndrome out

of the way and letting your thoughts land and become.

Participants will explore practical ways to prepare the body and mind before performing, including warmups, breathing, and simple preshow rituals that help you settle in, trust yourself and stay present.

A strong focus is placed on connection and through guided exercises and shared practice, participants will build awareness of themselves and each other, learning how to bounce off the energy in the

Soundwaves chorus needs more members

The Soundwaves Gosford men’s chorus is looking for new members and is set to hold free courses to help improve singing ability.

“There was a time when male choruses and mixed choirs had a good number of male singers,” a spokesperson said.

“These days it has become a struggle to recruit men.

“What has happened?

“Do men now think singing is not the manful thing to do?

“If so, they should think again.

“Singers are artists, they’re storytellers, and something you may not have considered –athletes.

“It takes effort to be a good singer; breath control is a vital part of good voice production and there is nothing effortless about it.”

The spokesperson said singing was similar to playing sport, in that it required a person to be physically active to strengthen muscles internally and mentally.

What’

Vision Board Workshop: Women’s Shed Central Coast, Berkeley Vale 10am

The Galleria Stars Festival: The Galleria, Ettalong Beach [* inc. 14 and 15 Feb]

Out Of Focus + Audiobox + Lotus: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

Zoe K & The Band Of Lost Souls: Funhaus Factory, Gosford 6pm

One Of These Nights: The Eagles Experience: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 8pm

Magic Men Australia 18+: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 8pm

Ethan Beckton: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm

SAT 14 FEB

Central Coast Skatepark Series: Summer Circus: Narara Skatepark 9am

Woybiza: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 12pm

Script Club February: Marty Supreme: Funhaus Factory Gosford 12pm

Summer Spandex: A Bent Cabaret: Funhaus Factory Gosford 8pm

Ballet Of Lights: Sleeping Beauty In A Sparkling Show: The Arthouse Theatre, Wyong 4pm & 6pm

The Album Show: A Night Of Love Songs: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

Phyte Club: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

Noah Macinante / Jenny Marie Lang Band: Gosford RSL Club 2pm / 8.30pm

Troubadour Central Coast, Folk and Acoustic Music Club: Performers Night: Empire Bay Community Hall 7pm

‘Group singing is like a team sport, supporting each other to achieve a measurable outcome,” they said.

“If you enjoy singing, can hold a tune and have a desire to perform, with help from accomplished educators, you may experience something exciting and new, perhaps, something you should have done years ago.”

A free Improve Your Singing Ability three-week course, will be held on Mondays, February

SUN 15 FEB

Jazz & Blues Piano Bar –Noontime Session: Funhaus Factory Gosford 1pm

Be Bop A Lula Duo: Gosford RSL Club 1pm

Winter Starlings + The Outback Traitors: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 2pm

Gypsy’s Kiss: Hardys Bay Club 2pm

Diesel By Request ‘26: Avoca Beach Theatre 4pm

16 and 23 and March 2 from 7.30pm to 9pm in the Parkview Room at Central Coast Leagues Club.

Gentlemen of all ages are invited to attend.

“Bring a mate and enjoy the friendship of other like-minded men in a relaxed, fun atmosphere,”the spokesperson said.

For more information see the Soundwaves Chorus Gosford Facebook page.

MON 16 FEB

The Frantastics Choir: Open Rehearsal: Walter Baker Hall, Woy Woy 1pm

Getting Started With E-books Tech Workshop: Gosford Regional Library 10.30am

Lunar New Year Craft: Lake Haven Library 3.30pm

Autistic Adults Social Club Central Coast: Ironbark At Archies, The Archibald Precinct,108 Donnison St, Gosford 6pm

room and work with what is already there.

The on-stage work looks at body awareness, movement and how you take up space, while also noticing habits that may be holding you back on both small and big scales.

The aim is to break unhelpful patterns, embrace imperfection, and turn nervous energy into something alive, responsive and confident on stage.

The workshop is free but participants need by searching ‘Mix and Master” at humanitix. com

Writers Club: Erina Library 10.30am

TUE 17 FEB

Be Connected Webinar: Safer Shopping And Banking Online Tech Workshop: Erina Library 9.50am

Get Your First Book Written With Lisa Kenway: Gosford Regional Library 5.30pm

WED 18 FEB

The OB3 album launch: Ocean Beach Hotel, Umina Beach 6.30pm

THU 19 FEB

HALL 10:30 - 11:30AM

“The Riddle of Washpool Gully: The Art House Studio, Wyong 10am & 12:30pm”

Football: Central Coast Mariners Womens Vs Melbourne City FC: polytec Stadium, Gosford 7pm The Riddle of Washpool Gully: The Art House Studio, Wyong 10am and 12:30pm

SUN 22 FEB

Introduction to Bonsai Art and Care: Erina Library 10.30am

Funhaus Drag Bingo: FunHaus Factory, Gosford 7pm

7am-1pm Cnr. Ocean Beach Rd, Woy Woy Great variety of stalls, BBQ, Tea & Coffee Vendors Welcome $25 per car Dunban Road Car Park (Near The Everglades) NB stall sites not open until 6.30am

Car Boot Sale Woy Woy Peninsula Lions Club Sunday 22 Feb 2026 Always last Sunday of the month (no events in December 2026 and January 2027)

Modern Calligraphy Workshop: Toukley Library 10.30am

Heath Franklin’s Chopper Gold: Avoca Beach Theatre 7pm

FRI 20 FEB

Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

WYONG 2PM & 7PM [* + 25 FEB]

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Pick the songs at next Social

Stewart and Jeannie from the Night Owls had so much fun at the Saturday Saradise Social on February 7 that they will back up again on March 7 to team up with regulars Cec Bucello and Trudy.

And this time they’re inviting the audience to tell them which songs they want to hear and where they can learn them.

Send an email by February 19 with your name and three songs you’d like added to info@tradandnow.com

“Regulars are beginning to meld and socialise, and over time, there’s a bunch of new music-loving friends to be had,” Bucello said.

Saradise Social will take place from 6.45pm on Saturday, March 7, at Saratoga Community Hall, 15 Kyeema Ave.

Tickets will be available soon on Humanitix or at the door.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Hamlyn Terrace mum’s beauty pageant journey

Bhavika Darji from Hamlyn Terrace is redefining what it means to step onto the pageant stage as she embarks on her next beauty pageant journey with Haut Monde — not for glamour alone, but to champion resilience, purpose, and empowerment for women and young people across the region.

With a title already under her belt – Opera Mrs India Universe – Darji will compete in the Australian leg of the worldwide Haut Monde pageant in a few months’ time.

If she wins, she will go on to

compete against other countries’ winners for the world title.

Haut Monde Mrs India Worldwide is an international beauty pageant for Indian married women that is conducted annually.

For Darji, the journey is deeply personal.

She said if pageants were only about physical appearance, she would never have entered. She views beauty as an umbrella of qualities that together define the strength of a woman — confidence, character, kindness,

intelligence, resilience, compassion, ambition, and authenticity.

She believes true beauty is found in how a woman shows up in the world, the values she lives by, and the impact she creates.

She said she hopes to show her three children that dreams are valid at any stage of life.

“Don’t live to fit someone else’s shoe, don’t live to fit a shoe supposedly created for you,” she said.

“Go out there and create your own shoe, wear it with pride and walk to make a difference.”

Darji hopes to promote confidence, self-belief, and ambition among young people across the Central Coast.

A former London-based microbiologist, devoted mother and wife, and a well-known hair and makeup artist, she is currently a Beauty Studio Artist for Sephora at Erina.

She is a confident stage MC, has modelled in cultural fashion shows and has been appointed choreographer for the Opera Beauty Pageant 2026.

She has also recently launched her own fully vegan, cruelty-free cosmetic range,

Look Divine, which she has personally formulated.

She said the brand had been designed to “capture the beauty in you”, celebrating individuality and inclusivity rather than promoting unrealistic standards.

With the support of her manufacturers, her formulations focus on sustainability, ethically sourced ingredients, and highperformance results. To check out her make up range and services go to lookdivine.com.au

Community Recycling Centres

Buttonderry Waste Management Facility 850 Hue Hue Road, Jilliby Mon to Fri: 7am–4pm (excluding public holidays); Sat, Sun: 8am–4pm Boxing Day: 8am–4pm (closed Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday)

Awaba Waste Management Facility 367 Wilton Road, Awaba Mon to Sun: 8am–4pm

Belmont North CRC 56-60 Floraville Road, Belmont North Mon to Fri: 8am–4pm; Sat, Sun: 9am–2pm

Cessnock Waste Management Centre 1967 Old Maitland Road, Cessnock Mon to Sun: 8.30am–4pm

MISSING LINK

MISSING LINK

Fill

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Dutch cheese

4. Bumps roughly

8. Scenery

11. Formerly Ceylon, Sri ...

13. Shrewder

15. Steak cut (1-4)

17. Brazilian metropolis

18. Precise

20. Transgression

21. Reflection

24. Brought under control

27. Revenge, tit for ...

28. Pale fawn colour

30. Stomach sore

31. Titled

33. Talkative

34. Matures

35. This spot

36. Field entrance

39. Heavy load

42. Rule (of monarch)

44. Length of DNA

45. Crow relative

46. Famous Ivy-League college

48. Native New Zealander

49. Windmill blades

50. Eagerly expectant

52. Fundamental

54. Final

55. Racing driver, ... Mansell

56. Christmas songs

57. Mouth-to-mouth, ... of life

60. One time

62. Birds of prey

65. Wax taper

67. Fall behind

69. Carreras or Domingo

70. Older person

72. I am, we ...

73. ESP, sixth ...

75. Leotard fabric

77. Visualise

79. In the neighbourhood

81. Pea shell

82. As a group, en ...

84. Proficient

85. Malaysia’s ... Lumpur

86. International trade fair

87. Approve officially

88. Positive votes

DOWN

1. Consumes food

2. By oneself

3. Human male

4. Indonesian isle

5. Undoubtedly

6. Ransacker

7. Moved in water

8. Annoy 9. Very angry

10. Electrical power unit

12. Horse’s cry 14. Four-door car 16. Holy book

19. Military trainee 22. Scant 23. Roof channel

25. Cropped up

26. Strength

29. Frozen shipping hazard

32. Flavour enhancer (1,1,1)

35. Hanging bed

37. Spy, secret ...

38. Unattractive structure

40. Workers’ federation

41. Tennis ace, Rafael ...

42. Ancient artefact

43. Of warships

44. Billy & nanny

47. Roped (cattle)

51. Childish laugh

Gosford Musical Society will transport Central Coast audiences to the streets of Victorian London when it presents the much-loved musical Oliver! at Laycock Street Community Theatre this month.

Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel Oliver Twist, Lionel Bart’s Oliver! follows the journey of a young orphan boy as he navigates hardship, friendship and hope in a world that is often cruel but not without kindness.

Packed with iconic songs including Food, Glorious Food, Where Is Love? and Consider Yourself, the production promises a rich and entertaining theatre experience for audiences of all ages.

Oliver! set to open at Laycock St

commitment and talent of an outstanding GMS cast.

“I am truly excited to share this work with audiences.”

A detailed set designed by Cody Swansbra, lighting by award-winning Damian Rice and carefully crafted costumes by Julie Gowen will help to recreate the grit and charm of 19th-century London.

Production Manager Chantel Johnston said Oliver! Would offer a first for the society.

“We have an Auslan interpreted performance on March 7 at 1.30pm to continue our commitment to providing inclusive theatre to the Central Coast and we invite audiences to this special performance,” she said.

The show is directed by Melody Thorburn with assistance from Sam Luxford, with musical direction by Kimberly Gilbert assisted by Rich Ferraro and Jess Ferraro and choreography by Nicole Seggie and Raechelle Walter.

alongside experienced adult performers.

The production features a large and diverse cast drawn from across the Central Coast, including a strong double cast junior ensemble working

Emmitt Ainsworth and Rory McMahon take the role of Oliver and Lachlan King and Lachlan McMahon play The Artful Dodger.

Eleanor Hannan steps into the shoes of Nancy, Lee Fleming as Bill Sikes and Steve Burchill is Fagin. Also in the cast are Eamon Moses, Marianne Powles, Rob Logan, Simone George and Larna Duddy.

“The production boasts a vivacious cast, with each performer perfectly matched to their role,” director Melody Thorburn said.

“Characters are sharply defined, revealing distinct personalities, motivations, and emotional depth, reflecting the

Oliver! will be staged at Laycock Street Community Theatre, Wyoming, from February 27-March 14.

Tickets are available through the theatre box office or at gosfordmusicalsociety.com

Huge Valentine’s Day weekend at the Fun Haus

Whether you’re head-overheels, fiercely single, or a little jaded with love, Gosford’s Fun Haus Factory is the place to be this Valentine’s/Galentine’s weekend.

From soul-soaked live music to a sizzling burlesque cabaret, the venue is serving romance, rebellion and connection in all its forms.

On Friday night, February 13, love gets a little dangerous as Zoe K and the Band of Lost Souls take the stage.

Soul, jazz and blues take over in a Friday-the-13th celebration with a New Orleans twist.

Led by powerhouse vocalist and bandleader Zoe K, whose years performing in New Orleans deeply shaped her sound, the night will channel funk, soul and blues straight from the birthplace of groove. Expect rich rhythms, big heart and just the right amount of grit.

The cabaret will feature Hilton Dennis – a dynamic dancer and cirque all-rounder whose career spans So You Think You Can Dance, King Kong, Limbo and Bang Bang – alongside Buenos Aires–born firestarter Miss GG Bohème, blending Latin rhythm, burlesque and raw sensuality. They will be joined by international punk-disco gremlin Gaff E, Jiggy, the selfcrowned prince of yearning, lust and longing, and Mercury, delivering circus, storytelling and otherworldly energy from another realm.

Zoe K will be joined by Central Coast favourites Matt Lamb (bass), Noa Kidd (guitar) and Cypress Bartlett (drums), bringing undeniable chemistry and deep-pocket groove to the stage.

night, think Friday-the-13th glam meets New Orleans carnival — lace, feathers, sequins, beads, berets, masks and red lipstick.

When getting dressed for the

On Saturday, February 14, A Bent Valentine’s Cabaret will turn the heat up.

The Fun Haus Factory’s annual summer spandex spectacular, this high-voltage cabaret delivers a delicious slice of Sydney Mardi Gras energy to the Central Coast in a bold, cheeky and joy-fuelled

Birding group recognises top twitchers

The Central Coast Group of Birding NSW celebrated its 30th anniversary recently with the awarding of the Twitch Trophy and the Alan Morris Award and the announcement of the winners of the 2025 Photographic Competition.

“A display of photographs recording important events for

the past 30 years brought back fond memories to those attending the meeting,” spokesperson Allan Benson said.

“It was pleasing that four of our founding members – John and Carole Carpenter and Margaret and Kaye Pointer –were able to be there to celebrate.”

The Twitch Trophy is awarded to the birder who sees the most species in the Central Coast LGA.

The competition has been running since 2011 with the record count being 293.

The winner for 2025 was Nick Carson with a total of 256 species recorded.

The Alan Morris Award is

presented each year to the birder who records the most surveys on Birdata in the Central Coast LGA.

Birdata is an important conservation tool and is named after the patron of Birding NSW, Alan Morris.

The 2025 winner was Alan Stuart who recorded 337 surveys in the Central Coast LGA.

night of contemporary performance.

Summer Spandex is a curated mash-up of burlesque, drag, dance, live music, storytelling and circus, hosted by Mother of the Haus Glitta Supernova.

GOSFORD 5 DAY FORECAST

Valentine’s dress-ups are highly encouraged — think love hearts, cupids, celebrity couples, Hallmark chaos, hot pink, red, spandex… or whatever your heart desires.

Enjoy happy hour from 6pm, and Beau’s Burgers serving up nostalgic street eats.

Bookings essential at funhausfactory.org.au

Business & Property

Catholic Healthcare’s new residential home at Kincumber

Clockwise from top: Holy Cross Kincumber; Each household features beautifully designed common spaces for relaxation and socialising; The

Catholic Healthcare has opened Holy Cross Kincumber, an innovative new residential care home at 88 Scaysbrook Dr, designed to deliver exceptional care and vibrant living for older Australians on the Central Coast.

Holy Cross Kincumber welcomed its first residents in December 2025, offering more than just a place to live in thoughtfully designed homes with lifestyle, choice, and community at the heart. Built around Catholic

Healthcare’s Inspirit model of care, Holy Cross Kincumber places dignity, relationships, and meaningful engagement at the forefront.

The home features a dedicated Memory Support household with a dedicated courtyard, addressing the growing need for environments that nurture both clinical care, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

Catholic Healthcare CEO Josh McFarlane emphasised the organisation’s commitment to older Australians on the Central Coast.

“Holy Cross Kincumber empowers older Australians with greater choice and control over their care, enabling residents to live well and age well,” he said.

“Through holistic, relationship-based support, residents choose the way they live.

“We look forward to welcoming more residents in the coming months and to setting a new standard for aged care in the region.”

Residents enjoy comfort and security with 24/7 registered nursing care, 102 private

Free Financial Wellbeing Workshop in Gosford

A free, in-person one-hour Financial Wellbeing Workshop will be held in Gosford on February 20.

Last year, ANZ and The Smith Family announced the rollout of Financial Wellbeing Workshops nationwide – a new initiative designed to help Australians stay safe from scams, build confidence using online banking, and access support if they’re experiencing financial stress.

Gosford will be one of the first two regional stops of 2026.

The free, one-hour sessions are open to everyone in the community (not just ANZ customers) and are designed to give people simple, practical tools to navigate everyday money matters safely.

Scam losses continue to grow across Australia, and regional communities are often disproportionately affected.

Older Australians and lower income households frequently report lower confidence with online banking and digital safety.

The workshops offer accessible, practical support close to home, delivered by The Smith Family.

It will take place from 10.30am-11.30am on Friday, February 20 at Gosford Regional Library, with light refreshments to follow.

Call 0413 161 686 or go to events.thesmithfamily.com. au/event/rsvp/fwbgosford to register

bedrooms with ensuites, and beautifully designed common spaces for relaxation and socialising.

The household dining experience features delicious, nutritionally balanced meals prepared onsite with fresh seasonal produce, served buffet-style to offer residents more choice at every meal.

Holy Cross Kincumber is Catholic Healthcare’s first purpose-built home to feature the household model.

Each of the six households include 17 bedrooms, shared

dining and lounge areas, and a household kitchen.

This model fosters relationships and collaboration among residents, team members, and loved ones, creating a true sense of belonging and community.

A vibrant central hub serves as the heart of community life, where residents, families, and friends can gather at the café or join events in the function room.

This beautiful home offers a hair salon, gym and chapel, for everyone to use as well as a bus for day trips and outings.

To learn more about Holy Cross Kincumber or to book an exclusive tour of the home, search ‘Kincumber” at catholichealthcare.com.au

Catholic Healthcare is a trusted, leading not-for-profit aged care provider of residential care, home care and retirement living reaching across the east coast of Australia.

They have a strong and proud history of providing care and support to people of all faiths, backgrounds, and ethnicities for more than 30 years.

The Doylo Lifestyle Group has announced the retirement of long-serving Chief Executive Officer Darren Thornton, marking the end of an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades and one of the most remarkable leadership journeys in the organisation’s history.

Mr Thornton’s story at The Doylo began in1984, when he walked through the doors as a 16-year-old apprentice greenkeeper.

From those early days on the greens, he steadily worked his way through assistant greenkeeper roles, a wide range of administrative and operational positions, and ultimately into the CEO role, a position he has held with distinction for the past 19 years.

Darren parts ways with the Doylo

His leadership has been tested, and proven, through some of the most challenging periods the industry has ever faced.

From navigating the unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, to managing an ever-changing legislative and political environment and challenging economic conditions, his steady hand and calm resolve ensured The Doylo remained resilient, relevant and community-focused.

connections, and yes, probably a few enemies along the way.

“I’ll miss the characters, the larrikins, and the wonderful community members who make this place what it is.”

He said he was looking forward to a well-earned change of pace, including working on his golf game, spending time chasing the grandkids, a bit of travelling, and most importantly, giving back to the community through volunteering.

Under his leadership, the organisation has strengthened its role as a cornerstone of community life, continually evolving its offerings to support, connect and enhance the lives of members and the wider community.

During his tenure as CEO, Mr Thornton has overseen a period of significant growth and transformation for The Doylo Lifestyle Group.

A hallmark of his leadership has been his commitment to developing people and mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Many aspiring managers and executives across the business credit him with shaping their careers through his guidance, trust and belief in their potential.

Mr Thornton also leaves a lasting strategic legacy through the development of The Doylo’s Estate Plan, which positions the organisation for long-term sustainability by diversifying business opportunities beyond traditional hospitality and setting the Group up for success well into the future.

Reflecting on his time at The Doylo, Mr Thornton said the people would be what he missed most.

“I’ll miss working with all of our teams, the Board, the executive team, our operational and front-of-house teams, as well as our members and the wider community,” he said.

“Over the years I’ve made many friends, a lot of

His final official day as CEO will be October 27, following a period of long service leave. His retirement marks the end of an era for The Doylo Lifestyle Group, but his legacy, built from the ground up, will continue to shape the organisation, its people and its community for many years to come.

Apprenticeships and traineeships on the increase

With National Apprenticeship Week being celebrated from February 9 to 15, new national data covering apprenticeships and traineeships from 1963 to 2025 revealed training commencements have quadrupled over the past six decades.

According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), total apprenticeship and trainee

commencements in Australia increased from 22,600 in the early 1960s to 133,300 in training 2025. Today, more than 300,000 Australians are in training as apprentices or trainees, with the in-training workforce in NSW increasing from 33,435 in 1969 to 90,032 in 2025, almost a three-fold increase.

The data shows commencements of people aged 25-44 increased by 54%

Application period for selective high school and opportunity class entry in 2027

Application dates: Thursday 6 November 2025 to Friday 20 February 2026

Applications for selective high school entry in Year 7 and opportunity class entry in Year 5 in 2027 are open from Thursday 6 November 2025 to Friday 20 February 2026

Selective high schools and opportunity classes are one of the ways that the NSW Department of Education provides support for high potential and gifted students. High potential and gifted students are supported across all NSW public schools through High Potential and Gifted Education programs.

Students living in rural and remote locations may apply for Aurora College, which provides online selective high school and opportunity classes in NSW public primary schools and high schools.

For more information and to apply online visit: edu.nsw.link/shs-oc

Contact the department’s Selective Education Team: Email: set@det.nsw.edu.au

Phone: 1300 880 367

Applications close Friday 20 February 2026.

between 1995 and 2025, compared with a 17% increase of those aged 19 or younger pointing to a gradual change in the age profile of people entering apprenticeships.

Kincumber local and mumof-two Elisha Jane Grice completed a Certificate III in Electrotechnology at TAFE NSW Wyong and works as an electrician with Terrigal Electrical.

Ms Grice said she was drawn to the trade for its hands-on nature and variety, and now works alongside her partner and brother at the same company, balancing work, family life and further study.

“I knew I didn’t want a general office job. I love being outdoors and doing something different every day,and an apprenticeship really suited that,” she said.

“An apprenticeship is sometimes seen as the easy option, but it’s definitely not.

“The skills you learn are so valuable and you can take them anywhere, which makes it really rewarding.”

Ms Grice said she found both TAFE NSW and her workplace supportive environments, even as the only woman in her training cohort, and credits the flexibility of her employer for helping her balance work, study and family life.

Available data from 1995 shows female trade commencements increased from 6,676 in 1995 to 10,534 in 2025, with participation at its

highest recorded level in recent decades.

Electrical trade commencements increased more than six-fold over six decades, rising from 2,694 in the early 1960s to 16,643 in 2025.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the data provided a clear picture of how apprenticeships and traineeships continue to support Australia’s workforce.

“These figures show how apprenticeships and traineeships have remained a key pathway into skilled work over time,” Mr Whan said.“TAFE NSW plays a critical role in training apprentices and trainees in partnership with employers to deliver skills that work for students, industry, and communities across the state.”

BUSINESS BRIEF Chamber meeting

Gosford-Erina Business Chamber will hold its next luncheon meeting at Gosford RSL on February 25.

Guest speaker will be Juan Iocco, Chair of the Gosford Strip Precinct, who will share insights into the Gosford Strip Project - the community-driven initiative helping reshape Gosford’s CBD into a lively, connected and vibrant city centre.

He will speak about how local businesses, creatives and organisations are uniting to transform the high street into a walkable 24-hour destination, with enhanced nightlife, safer streets, more reasons to visit and stay, and communityfocused activations that bring energy day and night.

The precinct’s work includes practical improvements like extended car park access to support dining, entertainment and events.

The meeting will be held from 12.15-2pm on Wednesday, February 25.

Bookings are essential –search Gosford at www. stickytickets.com.au

Get on board with 2026 Lakes Festival

Local businesses have been invited to take part in the much-loved Lakes Festival, returning this year from November 6 to 15.

The 10-day celebration shines a spotlight on the Coast’s iconic waterways and colourful coastal communities, offering residents and visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

The 2025 program delivered more than 40 activations, each designed to connect people with the environment and celebrate the unique character of our lakes and surrounding communities.

delivered an estimated $6.7M into the local economy, supporting jobs and helping local business thrive.

“Whether you’re a business, artist, educator or community group – you don’t need to create something brand new to participate.

“Repurpose an existing idea or reimagine a product or service you provide.

“No idea is too big or too small.”

“Expressions of interest are now open, and local operators are invited to help shape the 2026 Lakes Festival with fresh ideas,flavours and experiences,” Cr McKinna said.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the annual Lakes Festival continued to be one of the region’s most anticipated events.

“This annual event celebrates everything that makes the Central Coast special and remains one of our most anticipated events.”

Council’s Acting Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said

everyone was encouraged to get involved.

“Last year we saw

approximately 30,000 people in attendance over the 10-day period,” Ms Smith said.

“Beyond the fun, the festival

Expressions of Interest to participate in the 2026 Lakes Festival must be submitted online by 2pm, Friday, March 20. For more information or to register your interest, search ‘Lakes Festival EOI 2026’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

State Planning knocks back submissions policy

Development proposals that attract 10 submissions from residents are still being referred to the Local Planning Panel (LPP) despite Central Coast Council adopting a new policy increasing the number to 20 before the Panel becomes involved.

Council has not been able to implement the policy change because the State Department

of Planning has to date “declined” to approve the policy change.

Councillors attending the Planning and Environment Committee on February 3 were updated on the issue. They were told the State was working on a statewide policy and that in December the Department wrote to Council and said the planning reform

Downsize With Confidence

team would continue discussions with Council on a number of matters, including Council’s LPP policy.

Council’s proposal to increase the submissions from 10 to 20 before it triggered the involvement of the Panel was adopted as policy in August last year.

This was despite the State

Department’s guidelines recommending 10.

Developments with less than 10 submissions are dealt with by Council staff under delegated powers.

The Peninsula Residents Association led the community opposition to the change when it was first proposed in 2024 by Councillor Doug Eaton.

Peter Gillis addressed the November 26, 2024, meeting explaining how hard it was to get to 10 submissions let alone 20 if a development affected only a handful of residents. And yet, the affect on those residents might be large. He suggested it should go down to five submissions.

Thinking about retirement living?

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Hear from trusted specialists in:

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• Legal considerations from Kent Law Group

• Downsizing & home styling from Valiant Interiors

Enjoy a complimentary light lunch and guided home tours throughout the day.

Limited seats — RSVP by Monday 23 February Call 1800 550 550 or visit keyton.com.au

Dr Gordon Reid MP

“The Hive” Erina Fair, 620-658 Terrigal Drive, Erina 2250 (02) 4003 8459

Mon – Fri: 8am – 10pm Sat/Sun/PH: 8am – 8pm 7 days a week

297 West Street Umina Beach 2257 (02) 4315 2660

Mon – Fri: 8:30am – 8:30pm Sat/Sun: 8:30 am - 6:30 pm PH: 8:30am – 8:30pm 7 days a week

Central Coast residents are invited to a Q and A seminar which promises to be both engaging and practical with a focus on how to design homes and landscapes to better withstand the impacts of climate change.

Important sustainability and environmental questions will be explored at the seminar which will be held at Pearl Beach Memorial Hall on February 28, from 5pm to 6.45pm

“Climate change and sustainability are two interconnected topics, ever present in the daily news,” seminar moderator and local architect Bruce Swalwell said.

“These terms are generally used in reference to extreme events and the actions being taken toward achieving a world where community, economic and environmental

Designing tips to cope with climate change

sustainability are not a dream, but a given.

“As communities increasingly face the impacts of a changing climate, questions remain about how we respond and adapt.

“Are there practices and procedures that can be utilised?

“At both the scale of the individual home and the broader environment, are there ways in which we can adapt and live more sustainably?”

The seminar will bring together two leading exponents of sustainable design.

Architect Carol Marra is a leader in the rapidly evolving field of sustainability, climate resilience and regenerative environments.

Her work focuses on designing homes, housing, masterplans and community

buildings that support both people and nature.

Joining her is Landscape Architect Mathew Taylor, who

Woy Woy cosmetics brand Modelrock has done it again – winning another two awards titles and a silver medal at the 2026 Universal Beauty Awards.

Celebrating inclusive makeup and beauty across the globe, the 2026 Universal Beauty Awards named Modelrock winner in the Best Lip Liner category, and the overall Best Australian Beauty Brand.

Announced online in the UK on Sunday, February 1, the awards saw Modelrock take the title of Best Australian Beauty Brand for the second successive year, acknowledging the company’s commitment to innovation, inclusion, longevity, reputation,

brings extensive experience across a diverse range of landscape projects nationally and internationally. His specialist expertise

includes heritage landscapes, master planning, residential subdivisions and the adaptive reuse of former heritage-listed industrial sites.

More accolades for Modelrock

environmental conscience and product development.

The Modelrock team was also thrilled to see their 2025-release Creamy Longwear Lip Liner win the Best Lip Liner category, and the industry-first Pro Blonde Lash Bond+Sealer Duo Pen with Ultra Luxe Espresso Clusters Bundle awarded a silver medal for Best False Lashes.

The Universal Beauty Awards embrace beauty brands from around the world, combining separate regions for all brands globally, with separate categories for Best Beauty Brands in each region.

Receiving more than 700 entries from across all sectors and judged by international

beauty experts over two-three months, the 2026 awards were the biggest to date, with game-

changing beauty products from every sector – electronics, hair care, wellbeing, supplements,

skincare, makeup, body care and many more – ensuring fierce competition.

“These award wins always mean the world to us, and to be recognised across Brand, Lips and Lashes wouldn’t be possible without our amazing customers, makeup artists and supporters,” Modelrock CEO and founder Raelene Mara said.

“Without you we would not be here and will be forever grateful.

“Celebrating our 14th anniversary in 2026, we are still filled with the love and excitement for Modelrock as we were on day one, and we still have so much joy when we see customers using,

$21M to improve West Gosford sewer

Eire Constructions has won a tender to construct new infrastructure to replace an existing fragile sewer line and future-proof a sewer rising main at West Gosford.

The work comes after West Gosford major sewage pump station and its associated sewer rising main failed in March 2020 and again in April 2023.

The two failures resulted in the uncontrolled discharge of raw sewage into sensitive bushland and Narara Creek, causing major operational disruptions and substantial costs in emergency responses,

environmental remediation and prosecution from the Environmental Protection Authority.

“Subsequent investigations identified severe external corrosion from shallow groundwater and acid sulphate soils as the primary cause of the failures,” a report to Council’s January meeting explained.

“An independent condition assessment by engineering consultant WSP confirmed that several sections of the pipeline have less than eight years of remaining useful life, recommending urgent

He is also the Landscape Master Planner for the Pearl Beach Arboretum.

The seminar will conclude with a panel discussion led by Mr Swalwell, inviting attendees to share their own bushfire experiences and practical design ideas.

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in what promises to be a timely and thought-provoking discussion on creating more resilient homes and environments for the future.

Tickets are $10 for Pearl Beach Progress Association members and $15 for nonmembers

Bookings via www. pearlbeachprogress.org.au

For more information email Mary Knaggs, Pearl Beach Environment Group convenor, at pearlbeachenvironment group@gmail.com

recommending and loving our products.”

As well as winning two MAGAP Australian Beauty Brand of the Year awards in 2019 and 2023, in 2024/2025 Modelrock also had success across various awards platforms.

It is Modelrock’s mission and vision to be Australia’s leading supplier and manufacturer of premium quality faux lashes and cosmetics, and to also ensure their products are 100% vegan and cruelty free. For more information go to www.modelrocklashes.com or call 0414 864 186. You can also find the company on Instagram – @ modelrocklashes.

replacement and renewal to mitigate ongoing risks.”

Council was prosecuted in December 2024 following enforcement action by the EPA which saw Council fined more than $100,000.

“During EPA’s investigation and subsequent legal proceedings, Council had provided advice to the EPA that planning for the replacement of the at-risk section of sewer rising main was underway,” the report said.

“Council had forecast that the sewer rising main replacement would be completed by June 2026.

“Council would be at significant risk of further prosecution if further asset failures and pollution events were to occur beyond the previously advised replacement date for the rising main.”

The contract consists of 2,245m of sewer rising main (polyethylene trenched pipe, polyethylene directional drill pipe and mild steel aerial section pipe) and 200m of mild steel pipe aerial water transfer main.

The West Gosford pump station and sewer line services about 13,000 residents across several suburbs and was constructed in 1986.

In every garden, space is precious.

Even in large backyards, there is only so much room, so many hours in the week, and only so much energy to go around.

That is why the smartest gardens are rarely filled with plants that do just one thing.

The most satisfying gardens rely on plants that earn their keep by working in more than one way at once.

Down in the Garden Plants That Earn Their Keep

by CHERALYN DARCEY

www.cheralyndarcey.com

These are the plants that provide shade and flowers. Beauty and privacy. Food and pest control.

They make gardens feel generous rather than demanding.

Take shade trees, for example.

A tree that simply blocks the sun is useful, but a tree that also flowers, feeds wildlife, or improves the soil becomes invaluable.

Herbs are some of the hardest working plants of all.

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

In Australian gardens, this might be a flowering native that cools a house in summer while offering nectar to birds and insects.

Shade lowers temperatures, protects smaller plants beneath it, and makes outdoor spaces usable.

Flowers add seasonal interest and life. One plant, multiple benefits.

Privacy planting works the same way. A hedge or screening shrub can do far more than block a neighbour’s fence.

Well-chosen plants soften boundaries, reduce noise, create habitat, and add beauty at the same time.

A dense shrub with attractive foliage or flowers gives privacy without feeling closed in.

In smaller gardens, climbing

plants on trellises can provide screening, shade walls, and introduce greenery vertically, all without taking up valuable ground space.

Herbs are some of the hardest working plants of all. They feed us, scent the garden, attract beneficial insects, and often help deter pests.

Rosemary, thyme, basil, mint, and lavender all earn their place quickly.

Many can be grown in pots, used regularly in the kitchen, and left to flower for pollinators.

Some herbs help mask the scent of more vulnerable plants, reducing pest pressure naturally.

When herbs are planted near doorways or paths, brushing past them releases fragrance, turning everyday movement

into a sensory experience.

Groundcovers are another category of plants that quietly do several jobs at once.

They suppress weeds, reduce evaporation, protect soil, and often provide flowers or berries as well.

In Australian conditions, groundcovers help manage heat and water far better than bare soil ever could.

They also soften hard edges and make gardens feel fuller with less effort.

Fruit trees and edible shrubs are perhaps the clearest example of plants earning their keep.

They provide food, shade, seasonal rhythm, and often ornamental value as well.

A citrus tree can anchor a garden visually while

supplying fruit for years.

Even when not fruiting, its glossy leaves and form contribute to the overall look of the space.

Plants that earn their keep also reduce workload.

When one plant performs multiple roles, there is less to maintain overall.

Fewer plants doing more work leads to simpler gardens that are easier to manage, especially as conditions become more challenging.

The most successful gardens are not the ones packed with novelty plants.

They are the ones built around smart choices.

Plants that work hard, adapt well, and give back in more than one way.

When every plant has a purpose beyond decoration, gardens become more resilient, more functional, and far more rewarding to live with.

Book Review by Julie Chessman

Portraits of Celina

By Sue Whiting

Celina O’Malley was just 16 when she disappeared.

Now, almost 40 years later, Bayley is sleeping in Celina’s room, wearing her clothes, and even hearing her voice.

Portraits of Celina by Australian author Sue Whiting is classified as a young adult novel but it is not the first time that I have thoroughly enjoyed this genre - this novel blends mystery, grief, and the supernatural into an unsettling story about identity and unresolved injustice.

The story centres on 16-year-old Bayley, who moves into a lake house with her mother following her father’s sudden tragic death. While exploring the house, she discovers a trunk of vintage clothing belonging to Celina O’Malley, a young

woman cloaked in mystery who disappeared decades earlier.

When Bayley begins wearing Celina’s clothes, she experiences disturbing visions and sensations that suggest Celina’s spirit is reaching through time, using Bayley as a conduit to tell her sad story.

Whiting manages the supernatural elements with restraint, allowing unease to build gradually rather than relying on overt scariness.

The novel’s strengths lie in its exploration of grief.

On occasion, the pacing can feel uneven, particularly in the early chapters, where the story takes time to gather momentum.

Some readers may also find the mystery elements predictable, especially those familiar with paranormal young adult fiction.

Portraits of Celina is still an engaging and thoughtful read.

Whiting’s prose is accessible yet evocative, and her focus on emotional realism grounds the supernatural elements in genuine human experience.

You might struggle to imagine a movie about table tennis that has the epic quality of The Godfather, but in Marty Supreme, that is exactly what you’ll see.

Marty Supreme is a masterful showpiece of filmmaking, authentic, passionate, violent, frenetic, and relentlessly surprising.

Like The Godfather, it’s a vivid window into the New York street life of misfits and dreamers in the early 1950s, with characters straight out of the grifter’s playbook.

You have no idea what’s going to happen next, and nor does the hero, Marty Mauser, a Jewish shoe salesman from the lower East Side.

He’s a nobody obsessed with becoming a somebody, and for him that means being

FILM REVIEW

By Avery Navarro MARTY SUPREME

the table tennis champion of the world.

Marty Supreme is loosely based on the real-life career of Marty Reisman, a New Yorker who was known as the bad boy of table tennis, boasting 22 major titles from 1946 to 2002, including two US and UK championships.

Timothée Chalamet’s superb performance turns his semi-fictional Marty into a disgraceful scam artist who burns his way through people’s lives on his way to international fame.

Yet, as scurrilous as Marty is, you’re on his side, because he sacrifices himself for his dream.

He double-deals and steals, but he doesn’t care about money. He just wants to pay for a chance to be the best in the world, and you go with

SHOWING

him as struggles to escape the Lower East Side.

In fact, the film’s brilliantly detailed portrayal of Marty’s world, with its shabby, crowded apartments and picturesque characters battling to survive, is a major reason to see this movie.

The background players and obsessive attention to detail are the raw material of great filmmaking.

Sitting in a comfortable cinema on the NSW Central Coast in 2026, you can only look at the mean streets of New York in the early 1950s and understand exactly why Marty wants to escape and live his dream.

The film is currently showing at Erina Hoyts and Cinema Paradiso at Ettalong.

Avery Navarro

Cinema Paradiso Ettalong: www.cinemaparadiso.com.au

Hoyts Erina: www.hoyts.com.au/cinemas/erina

Event Cinemas Tuggerah: www.eventcinemas.com.au/cinema/tuggerah

Avoca Beach Theatre: www.avocabeachtheatre.com.au

Health & Education Have your say on disability inclusion

Central Coast Council is inviting people living with disability, carers, advocates and community organisations to review and provide feedback on its draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030, now on public exhibition.

The draft plan outlines practical actions to improve access and inclusion across the region.

It builds on the achievements of the previous plan and reflects

feedback received during community engagement held in April and May 2025.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said Council was committed to creating an accessible and inclusive community for people living with disability.

“The draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030 explores the themes of positive community attitudes and behaviours, liveable communities, meaningful employment opportunities and

The plan outlines practical actions to improve access and inclusion

accessible systems and processes,” Cr McKinna said.

“It seeks to build an accessible and inclusive community for all and outlines how Council and the community can collaborate to ensure our spaces, services and information benefit everyone.”

The plan focuses on four key areas: positive community attitudes and behaviours; liveable communities; meaningful employment; and accessible systems and processes

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the draft Plan responded directly to community feedback.

“We heard that people want more inclusive events, clearer and more accessible information and stronger representation of lived experience in Council decision making” she said.

“These priorities are reflected in the draft plan, alongside continued improvements to public spaces, facilities,

employment pathways, information and Council services.

“We’ve incorporated what the community told us into this draft and now we’re asking people to review the plan and let us know if we’ve missed anything.”

The draft plan also builds on successful initiatives from the previous Disability Inclusion Action Plan featured in the 2025 Highlights Report, including accessible beach matting, upgraded play spaces,

Open day at Holy Cross

Holy Cross Catholic Primary School at Kincumber is preparing to throw open its gates for an Open Day on Tuesday, March 3, from 9.30am11am and 5pm-6pm.

Families from across the Central Coast are invited to the Open Day which promises a vibrant, welcoming event designed to showcase what makes Holy Cross such a special place to learn, grow and belong.

Visitors will experience the warmth of a school community where every child is known by name, celebrated for who they are, and supported to thrive academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.

Principal

“Holy Cross is a place where

faith, learning and community come together,” she

“Our Open Day gives families the chance to feel the spirit of our school, meet our incredible

staff and students, and see how we nurture confident, capable learners with strong values.”

Throughout the morning,

visitors will enjoy guided tours, meet passionate teachers and school leaders, and see learning in action.

Families will also learn about Holy Cross’ strong focus on

accessible adult changing facilities and inclusive library programs.

Council will host an Auslan interpreted public exhibition workshop for the deaf community so they can have their say from 10am-1pm on Wednesday, February 18, at Gosford Regional Library in Donnison St.

For further information, email ask@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

wellbeing, faith formation, contemporary teaching practices and the many opportunities available beyond the classroom – from sport and music to leadership and community.

Families considering kindergarten entry, relocating to the area, or simply exploring education options for their children are welcome.

Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, at 37 Kincumber St, Kincumber, serves families from Kincumber and surrounding Central Coast communities.

Places for the Open Day are limited and early registrations are encouraged at www. hckdbb.catholic.edu.au/ enrolment/enrol

Push for more dental health education in schools

As the 2026 school year begins, one in three children in NSW is entering school with preventable tooth decay, according to the Australian Dental Association NSW (ADA NSW).

The association says there is an urgent need for expanded, school-based dental prevention programs.

Dr Thomas Tseng of Kincumber Dental said while the numbers of children on the Central Coast starting school with tooth decay are lower than in some other council areas it is still a problem.

“Factors such as high sugar intake, poor tooth brushing habits and increased drinking of bottled or filtered water (which doesn’t contain fluoride) could all lead to tooth decay.”

Dr Tseng said high sugar intake can also lead to higher obesity rates.

“Children don’t develop the dexterity to clean their teeth properly until they get to 7 or 8 years of age so parents should still be the ones to brush their children’s teeth before this age,” he said.

Recent NSW Health oral health data show that around 40% of NSW children aged 5–6 have untreated or experienced dental disease by school age, with significantly higher rates among disadvantaged communities.

Aboriginal children, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and families in regional and remote areas bear a disproportionate share of this largely preventable disease.

“Tooth decay in early childhood isn’t just about cavities: it affects every part of a child’s life, from eating and sleeping to concentration and social confidence on their very

first day of school,” ADA NSW President Dr Mark Morrin said.

He said despite being largely preventable, childhood dental caries remains a leading health issue across NSW, with many families facing barriers to early dental care due to concerns around cost, long public dental waiting lists and limited access to preventive care.

Dr Thomas Tseng

“Right now, far too many NSW kids start school already behind because of tooth decay that could have been stopped early with simple, preventive care,” Dr Morrin said.

“Investing in education backed with schools and

families working together helps delivers equitable access to good oral health, particularly for children who most need support.”

ADA NSW is calling on the NSW Government to implement: regular dental screenings and check-up reminders including promoting the CDBS for eligible families to access government-funded dental care; oral health education for children, parents and carers; and promotion of water as the drink of choice with reduced access to and consumption of sugary drinks in canteens

“Prevention works with improving oral health but only if children have access to early care where they spend much of their day,” Dr Morrin said. He commended NSW Health’s Primary Schools Mobile Dental Program which currently delivers free dental check-ups and preventive care to students across 11 Local Health Districts, helping reduce barriers to access.

But he said prevention must go further and reach every child, in every community.

Epic bike ride raises funds for East Gosford School

Wyoming father Ken Dobbie will ride the Great Ocean Road to support Gosford East Public School and its plans to construct a new outdoor shelter for the school community.

The ride will take place from February 18 to March 1, starting in Geelong and finishing at Warrnambool.

The solo cycling trip covers 370km over several days, and Mr Dobbie will camp each night and be completely selfsufficient.

After taking part in a similar cycling journey in the United States to raise funds for children living with cancer, he decided he wanted to give back to his local community on the Central Coast.

“After completing a similar bike ride in 2015 from San Francisco to Los Angeles, where I raised money for children with cancer, I was planning to support a national charity again this time,” Mr Dobbie said.

“However, my wife thoughtfully suggested focusing on our local community, and her idea inspired me to raise funds for Gosford East Public School.

“It felt meaningful to support something so close to home, while still taking on a personal challenge.

“This is the first ride I’ve done since the California ride, which was actually the very first ride of any size I had ever attempted.

“I’ve never explored Australia on a bike before, and I hope this is just the start of many more adventures.

“If I survive this trip, I’m already planning a bigger challenge, riding from Adelaide to Perth across the Nullarbor in 2028.

“After watching parents

around me selflessly give up large portions of their time, volunteering in sports and all manner of activities, it struck me that it doesn’t take much from any one person to make a significant difference collectively.

“I’d encourage others to find something they’re passionate about and contribute in whatever way they can.

“Even small efforts, when combined, can have a real impact and bring a strong sense of connection and fulfillment.

“I’d like to see this become

EYE HEALTH

Age-related macular degeneration, the silent thief

Age-related macular degeneration, known as AMD, is one of the leading causes of vision loss in Australia, quietly affecting the sight of older Australians.

About one in seven people over the age of 50 is already living with some form of AMD, with an estimated eight million more considered at risk.

In total, about 1.9 million Australians are living with the condition, often without realising it in its early stages.

For many, AMD will not progress to severe vision loss.

However, it remains the leading cause of legal blindness in the country, with nearly one in 15 Australians over the age of 80 experiencing late-stage AMD.

AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina at the back of the eye.

The macula contains lightsensitive cells responsible for sharp, detailed central vision, allowing us to read, drive, and recognise faces.

As AMD progresses, these cells gradually deteriorate, leading to blurred or distorted central vision.

In its early stages, AMD may present no noticeable symptoms and is often only detected during a routine eye examination.

As the condition advances, symptoms can include blurred or distorted vision, straight lines appearing wavy, difficulty adjusting from light to dark environments, problems reading or recognising faces, and dark patches in the centre of vision.

Vision changes should never be dismissed as a normal part of ageing.Anyone experiencing sudden or unusual changes in their sight should see an optometrist promptly.

the start of semi-regular fundraising, and I hope it might inspire others as well.

“It doesn’t have to be a bike ride; honestly, it’s just about being involved and active as a parent in the community.

“Showing up to events and contributing where you can is already a massive step toward making a difference.”

Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid commended Mr Dobbie for supporting Gosford East Public School through the fundraising initiative.

“It is always brilliant to learn about community members who love where they live and want to give back,” he said.

“I know that the community at Gosford East Public School, where Ken sends his own son, will be incredibly grateful for all the extra support.

“I wish Ken all the best and look forward to welcoming him back to the Central Coast following the completion of his journey along the Victorian coastline.”

To donate and for more information, search ‘East Gosford’ at www.gofundme. com

Side, or peripheral vision, is usually unaffected.

The condition is classified as early, intermediate, or late stage.

There are two forms of latestage AMD, geographic atrophy, often referred to as dry AMD, which involves the loss of macular cells, and neovascular or wet AMD, which is caused by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina.

While the exact cause of AMD is not fully understood, both genetic and lifestyle factors are known to play a role. Increasing age, a family history of AMD, and smoking are among the strongest risk factors.

Early detection allows for closer monitoring and timely treatment if the disease progresses.

Late-stage AMD is commonly treated with injections into the eye, which can slow progression and help preserve vision.

While not a cure, treatment can stabilise sight and, in some cases, improve it. Recently, the Therapeutic Goods Administration approved the first treatment to slow the progression of geographic atrophy, marking an important step forward, with further treatments currently under clinical trial. Regular eye checks remain the best defence against this silent threat to vision.

The Autism Community Network (ACN) has formed two groups that will hold monthly social events on the Central Coast.

The first is a group is for autistic adults, and the second is for parents and carers of autistic people.

ACN CEO Vanessa Gauci said the two groups will be a relaxed way for autistic adults and their loved ones to have fun and connect with new people.

“It can be nerve-wracking joining a new group, yet ACN creates events where you can ask questions, vent, share experiences and just be yourself without fear of

Two new autism support groups

judgement,” Ms Gauci said.

The inaugural autistic adults social group event is on Monday, February 16, from 6pm-8pm at Ironbark at Archies, in the new Archibald Precinct building in Gosford.

After this catch-up, the group will meet at the same location and time on the third Monday of each month.

Ronan Soussa, ACN Ambassador and star of the TV show Love on the Spectrum, will be a special guest at the first event.

The series followed the lives of seven autistic singles looking for love.

Ronan found love on the show – with a Central Coast resident – and he is looking forward to chatting to attendees.

Parents and carers of autistic children and adults are invited to join the peer-to-peer carers support group.

This group meets on the third Monday of the month, from 10am-noon at Gosford RSL Club, West Gosford.

Members share stories, swap advice and have a laugh.

Staff and volunteers from the ACN attend meetings and share their insights and up-todate information on topics, like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Talk2MeBro

Ms Gauci said being a parent or carer of an autistic person can be challenging and isolating.

“There are unique challenges and self-care is usually pushed to the bottom of your list,” she said.

“This group is a safe place to share the wins and the challenges, laugh and cry –over a well-deserved hot cup of tea or coffee.”

The ACN hopes to expand its presence on the Coast with other events, including family fun days.

Free tickets and more information go to www. acnaustralia.org.au

gala comes to the Doylo

The Talk2MeBro’s Central Coast Gala will return at 6pm on Saturday, March 7, at The Doylo.

The event will continue the organisation’s tradition of bringing the community together for an evening of connection, entertainment, and fundraising to support vital mental health programs.

The major fundraising event for the region demonstrates strong community commitment to the organisation’s mission

to end suicide in Australia.

The Central Coast Gala is part of Talk2MeBro’s broader NSW movement, joining highly successful events in Newcastle, Wollongong and Sydney’s Southwest in 2025.

Last year, Talk2MeBro’s first Central Coast Gala was held at Wyong Leagues Club.

Back then, the organisation had met approximately 250 people at face-to-face sessions in the region, and had only ran

just a handful of free small community events.

This year will see the annual event move to The Doylo, with 250 people expected to attend again.

Now, with 150 facilitators statewide, and more than 10 active in Central Coast area, the organisation has been delivered to over 2,000 people in face-toface sessions, and run over 20 events locally in 2025 alone.

The remarkable growth captures how the community

has embraced both Talk2MeBro and the vital importance of open mental health conversations.

Talk2MeBro is a grassroots not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fostering genuine conversations around mental health and suicide prevention through community catch-ups, retreats, sports partnerships, and large-scale events.

To learn more about Talk2MeBro or to enquire about its programs, visit talk2mebro.org.au

Two of the Central Coast’s brightest young surf lifesavers were recently named the Newcastle Permanent Junior Life Savers of the Year at a ceremony at Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

Ocean Beach SLSC’s Piper Lawrence and Will Nash received the prestigious annual awards, recognising their leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to surf lifesaving and the wider local community.

Piper has become an integral part of her club, enjoying patrols which boost her confidence and lifesaving skills.

Last season, she received the Ruby Knight Junior Club Person of the Year award, recognising her dedication to Ocean Beach.

Will is also a dedicated member of Ocean Beach SLSC who enjoys patrolling and competing at carnivals with all his friends.

Last year, he was chosen to represent his club at the Surf Life Saving Central Coast Awards of Excellence as the Rookie of the Year.

All junior lifesavers who nominated for the award went through an interview process

Junior lifesavers of the year

and completed a CPR practical and a theory paper, which included pitching an activity or program that they could be implemented across Surf Life Saving.

Piper’s proposed initiative is a program called Surfer’s

Education that gives local surfers a short course on how to do basic rescues if they are called into action at a busy or unpatrolled beach.

Will’s idea is to introduce a QR

code that is displayed at every beach entrance.

Once scanned the code will link to a page full of information and tips on beach safety that can be translated into different languages.

The Junior Life Saver of the Year award presentation took place at the 2026 Newcastle Permanent Branch Championships, an under-8s to under-14s surf sports carnival bringing together the region’s young competitors to take part in a number of challenging

events designed to showcase their surf awareness, teamwork and rescue techniques.

Surf Life Saving Central Coast CEO Michael Hyslop was impressed by the strong field of contenders for the awards.

“Newcastle Permanent has been partnering with SLSCC on youth programs for over 20 years, a commitment that has helped shape generations of young lifesavers and strengthened our capacity to develop the next wave of

community leaders,” Mr Hyslop said.

“The Newcastle Permanent Junior Lifesaver of the Year award showcases the exceptional calibre of young people in our branch.

“They are all dedicated volunteers who demonstrate remarkable leadership, commitment to beach safety, and a genuine passion for serving their communities.”

Newcastle Permanent Branch Manager Michelle Densem said the Junior Surf Lifesaver of the Year Award showcased the talents of young lifesavers across the region.

“Newcastle Permanent has proudly partnered with Surf Life Saving Central Coast for 23 years, supporting vital programs to ensure the next generation of lifesavers receive the training and experience they need to help keep our beaches safe,” she said.

“The Central Coast branch of Surf Life Saving NSW has 15 clubs, patrolling beaches from Umina Beach to The Lakes.

“Newcastle Permanent continues to invest into local communities each year through its partnerships, employee donations, volunteering, and fundraising programs.”

50 years since unexpected victory

One of the most extraordinary tennis matches ever played took place 50 years ago at Melbourne’s Kooyong courts and featured the Central Coast’s own Mark Edmondson.

The Gosford tennis player, who was ranked 212 in the world at the time, took out the Australian Men’s Open Singles Tennis championship on January 4, 1976.

His opponent was John Newcombe, who was the defending champion, overwhelming favourite and ranked number two for the tournament.

Edmondson was considered a “journeyman”, at the time – a creditable player but really there just to make up the numbers.

His tennis origins were very humble, having played many of his early matches in Gosford. He was initially thought to be a good club level player but it was never considered likely that he would play at international level.

Also there were no grass tennis courts in Gosford at the time and this was a considerable disadvantage as most of the top level tennis in Australia,

including the Australian Open, was played on grass.

Very few gave him any chance of defeating Newcombe, who was the strong favourite.

But Edmondson’s tennis had improved steadily during 1975 – particularly his serve, which had developed into a reliable and potent weapon.

It was a thunderbolt first serve, followed by an awkward American Twist – or kicker – for his second.

He was a husky and powerful man who had also added speed around the court to his repertoire in 1975.

Newcombe’s singles record up until 1976 was recognised as one of the greatest in the history of Australian men’s tennis, with three Wimbledon wins, two US Opens and two Australian Opens. This stamped him as one of the greatest grass-court players of the era.

The Australian Men’s Open began on December 26, 1975, and both Newcombe and Edmondson progressed through to the final, with perhaps the most surprising result on the way being Edmondson’s win over champion Ken Rosewall in the semi-final held on January 3.

This was a total surprise and for the first time revealed Edmondson to be a serious contender.

It set the stage for a Newcombe versus Edmondson final that the media dubbed as “a battle of the moustaches” as both Edmondson and Newcombe sported large and luxuriant “Zapata” style “moes”, with Newcombe’s becoming a personal trademark.

The weather on the day of the final was searingly hot and windy, with strong and gusty northerly winds blasting across Melbourne, ahead of a cold front that was approaching from the west.

The official maximum temperature recorded at the Melbourne Regional Office that afternoon was an energy sapping 40.6C – it turned out to be hottest day since 1968.

More than 100 people in the Kooyong gallery were treated for heat exhaustion and conditions for Edmondson and Newcombe were difficult to the extreme.

Both favoured the “serve and volley” style of play and the high temperatures and gusty winds added another layer of difficulty for both men.

And then, about 90 minutes into the game, during the third set, the front arrived at Kooyong, producing a further

Two on the trot for Mariners

The Central Coast Mariners men have claimed back-toback wins for the first time this season, edging out Brisbane Roar 2–1 away from home on Saturday night, February 7, to reignite their A-League Men’s campaign.

Playing in Brisbane, the Mariners showed confidence and intent from the outset, with the lion’s share of possession, yet defending inconsistently.

The boys in yellow notched up two goals and three points against a Roar side pushing hard in front of their home crowd.

The result lifts the Mariners to 10th on the ladder and, while there is still work to be done, keeps finals calculations alive with momentum finally swinging their way at the right end of the season.

The Roar’s D’Agostino opened the account, finding the back of the net in the 44th minute, with sloppy defence from the Mariners backline.

burst of winds but this time from the south, with a dramatic 15C drop in temperature in only 15 minutes.

The Bureau recorded a wind gust of 76 km/hr as the front hit.

Chairs were blown over and the air became thick with dust and debris.

The umpire called a halt to the proceedings and play was suspended for half an hour as a result.

At one stage, Newcombe lay down on the court with a towel over his head to try and escape the heat and blowing dust.

Edmondson, handling the conditions better than Newcombe, eventually won the match in four sets, becoming the lowest ranked player ever to win a major singles final and he remains the last Australian man to win the Australian Open.

Today the Australian Open is played at the Rod Laver Arena in an indoor stadium with a retractable roof and air conditioning so both players and spectators are in a far more protected environment compared to that of 50 years ago.

Dick Whitaker

The Roar didn’t roar for long, with Miguel Di Pizio scoring three minutes later in first-half stoppage time, making it even at half-time.

Veteran Mariners defender Storm Roux broke through late in the second half with a leftfoot strike after a tight-knit tussle in the penalty.

The defensive structure held when tested, while the midfield and forward lines were more decisive than in recent weeks. For a side that has struggled to string results together this campaign, consecutive wins now offer a real shift in confidence, both within the squad and among travelling supporters who made the trip north.

With 10 matches remaining and ladder positions still fluid, the Mariners’ path to the finals remains challenging but mathematically possible.

More importantly, Saturday night’s result suggests the belief has returned.

The team now enjoys a bye this coming weekend before reconvening to host Western Sydney on Sunday week, February 22, at Polytec Stadium at 5pm.

After a busy December and January period, racing continues throughout February at Wyong Race Club with a number of midweek and Saturday meetings on the horizon.

Wyong Race Club will host its Central Coast Kids In Need race day on Saturday, February 21, raising much-needed funds for a vital local charity.

Central Coast Kids In Need supports the wellbeing of seriously ill children and their families across the region through a dedicated volunteer organisation.

The charity assists by easing the financial burden associated with medications, specialist equipment, travel and accommodation.

Lots of race action up to Easter

Midweek racing continues on Thursday, February 26, and Wednesday, March 18, before two major Saturday meetings take centre stage — the Provincial Championships Qualifying Day on Saturday, March 28, and the Easter Saturday Family Fun Day on Saturday, April 4.

particularly looking forward to the Provincial Championships Qualifying Day and our Easter Saturday Family Fun Day,” Club

CEO Greg Purcell said.

“We have a vast array of race meetings coming up and are

The Provincial Championships Qualifying race will see the first two runners across the line

secure a spot in the $1M Provincial Midway Championship, to be held at Royal Randwick on Saturday, April 11.

“Last year local trainer Sara Ryan prepared Matcha Latte to claim victory, so we’re hoping

Team Wyong can go back-toback,” Purcell said.

Following the qualifying day, the annual Easter Family Fun Day will deliver a full program of activities for families, including an epic Easter Egg Hunt featuring 60kg of chocolate treats, a child and accompanying adult fashion parade, a K-Pop disco and plenty more to entertain racegoers of all ages. For further information, head to wyongraceclub.com.au