Coast Community News #525

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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, Tayla Purves

Sharks, common sense and shared waters EDITORIAL

International research confirms that nine of the 12 fatal shark attacks globally last year occurred in Australia. That statistic is sobering.

It confirms what we already know: sharks, or at least some sharks, are capable of killing humans.

But perspective matters.

According to Surf Life Saving Australia, more than 16 million people visit Australian beaches at least 630,000 times each year.

The overwhelming majority return home safely.

Most shark species steer clear of us.

We enter their environment when we swim in salt water, not the other way around.

Here on the Central Coast,

shark sightings are part of coastal life.

Surfers at Avoca, Terrigal and North Shelly know the feeling of scanning the horizon.

While we have not reported a serious local incident lately, Sydney recently endured a spate of attacks in quick succession.

Experts say heavy summer rains may be a factor.

Downpours create brackish, murky water that species such as bull sharks favour.

Reduced visibility increases risk.

The advice is practical.

Avoid swimming in murky water, particularly near the

entrances to Tuggerah Lakes and Brisbane Water after rain.

Swim between the flags; listen to lifeguards; check beach updates.

Council has rightly called for stronger cooperation with the State Government, pointing to Avoca Beach as best practice.

Drone surveillance, drum lines and a monitoring station provide layered protection and real-time information.

Smart technology that clears beaches temporarily when a shark is detected is a measured response.

This approach should be expanded and properly funded.

At the same time, we must address the elephant in the water, the ageing shark net program.

Across Parliament, there is broad agreement that the nets are outdated.

They do not form a complete barrier.

They do, however, kill dolphins, turtles and seals each season.

We persist with a blunt tool when better options exist. The ocean is not a swimming pool.

It is wild, shared and powerful.

Respect it; stay informed; support evidence-based safety measures.

And urge the State Government to work with our region to deliver modern, humane and effective shark management for the Central Coast.

David Abrahams, Managing Editor

Gaye and Greg celebrate 60 years of marriage

North Avoca residents Gaye and Greg Stevens will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on February 26, marking six decades of love, laughter and shared memories.

They were married at St Paul’s Church, Harris Park, on February 26, 1966 and still smile when they recall their little flower girl, Jill, accidentally knocking over a chair in the middle of the ceremony.

After the reception, the newlyweds were farewelled in traditional style.

Their car was covered in shaving cream, tin cans were tied to the exhaust, and someone had mischievously filled the air vents with confetti, which blew everywhere as they drove off.

For their honeymoon, Gaye and Greg set off on a road trip to the Gold Coast — quite an adventure in those days.

Greg borrowed his new father-in-law’s car and his uncle-in-law’s caravan for the journey.

The couple began their married life at Bilgola Plateau on Sydney’s northern beaches. Their first daughter, Leanne, was born in 1969, followed by Melissa in 1971.

After a few years, their son Matthew completed the family in 1978.

In the early years, Greg worked hard and travelled frequently.

Not wanting to spend so much time away from his

family, Greg changed jobs soon after Melissa was born.

Life on the Plateau was happy and full, but after all their children married and moved away, the couple decided to move to the Central Coast 16 years ago to be closer to family, with daughter Melissa living at Green Point.

“It was a wonderful decision,” they said.

“The people, the area and being closer to family has been very worth it.”

They are active members of their local EV Church congregation and enjoy regularly socialising with fellow parishioners, as well as with their much-valued neighbours.

Today, with an extended family of 18 — soon to be 19

— including six grandchildren and one (soon to be two) greatgrandchildren, the couple say they feel truly blessed.

After 60 years of marriage, they are grateful to still be sharing life’s journey together, surrounded by the love of their family.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Justices meet

The next meeting of the NSW Justices Association

will be held at 2pm on Thursday, March 5.

It will take place at Georgiana’s Café in the Central Coast Leagues Club.

Youth Week Awards

Nominations close at 5pm on March 1 for Central Coast Council’s 2026 Youth Week Awards.

The awards celebrate local young people aged 12–24 who are making outstanding contributions over 11 varied categories.

Whether they’re inspiring others, driving change, or working quietly behind the scenes, now’s the time to give our young people the recognition they deserve.

Nominate by searching ‘Youth Week Awards’ at centralcoast.

nsw.gov.au

Deadline for details on Wamberal seawall

The Regional Planning Panel has given landowners who signed up for a wholeof-embayment seawall at Wamberal four weeks to indicate if they are prepared to address matters raised and to identify what sites do not have landowners’ consent.

If the landowners are willing to provide more information, they have a deadline of 12 weeks to submit it.

The Panel deferred a final determination of the three development applications (DAs) for coastal protection works along Wamberal Beach, asking that a formal written request to amend the application be uploaded to the State Planning Portal within 12 weeks.

It must include sufficient information to indicate the nature of the change of the development, updated technical reports relied on in the amended application, and Council is requested to provide an addendum assessment

”If the applicant indicates that they are not prepared to address the matters, the Panel may move to determine the DA based on the information currently at hand,” the Panel decision report noted.

”The Panel recognises the complexity of this application and the associated applications and the challenges of coordinating a diverse group of

”The Panel also recognises the damaging impacts coastal processes have had, and are continuing to have, as a result of extreme storm events, on public and private land along Wamberal Beach.

”Furthermore, it understands that the area has been subject to numerous studies and proposals for coastal protection

lands and adjoining publicly owned lands.

”It is apparent that any solution needs an integrated government and private landowner approach which appropriately balances public and private interests.”

Further down in the report, the Panel said it was clear that there were some fundamental

”There are fundamental matters that have been on notice for some time that have not been satisfactorily addressed.

”The most obvious is landowner’s consent to a number of properties where the application proposes protection works. The application cannot proceed without the relevant consents.”

The Panel wanted: detail on the structural design of the wall; geotechnical investigation; impacts on the lagoon hydraulics of Terrigal Lagoon at one end and Wamberal Lagoon at the other; visual impact; construction methodology and management, including scheduling and impact mitigation measures; timing of the construction; sand nourishment timing, sources, arrangements and funding responsibilities; ongoing management and maintenance over the life of works; and impacts on public

New Davistown playspace ready to use

The exciting new playspace at Illoura Reserve, Davistown, is complete and ready for the community to enjoy.

Minister for the Central Coast, Member for Wyong David Harris said it was wonderful to see the project reach completion.

“This new playspace is a fantastic example of how NSW Government investment helps regional communities create places where families can come together, stay active and enjoy their local environment,” Mr Harris said.

“By working in partnership with Central Coast Council and the local community, we’re delivering high-quality, inclusive infrastructure that will let even more people enjoy this fantastic location.”

Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said Council was grateful to the Government and the 3 Villages Community Group for their combined

funding contribution of $365,000.

“Designed for climbing, swinging, jumping and imaginative fun, the upgraded area is already shaping up to be a favourite community destination for people of all ages to gather and stay active,” he said.

“Davistown is a beautiful part of the Coast, and I encourage locals and visitors alike to visit

Illoura Reserve, located alongside the Brisbane Water foreshore, and enjoy this vibrant and inclusive new space.”

Council Director Community and Recreation Services

Melanie Smith said the playspace design was shaped by community feedback during engagement activities in 2024.

“There were 189 residents

who participated in an online survey,” Ms Smith said.

“Our community asked for a variety of play equipment including a flying fox, connecting paths, and fencing – and we delivered.

“Aboriginal heritage and cultural significance at the site were also considered throughout planning and design.

“To ensure everyone can participate, this playspace has been designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, featuring concrete pathways and accessible play equipment for people of all ages and abilities.”

The new playspace includes: a pirate-themed playspace with multi-level play unit; a flying fox (shorter run due to space constraints; a three-bay

swing set, including a nest swing and mum-and-bub swing; two slides; a climbing unit; an interactive play wall and shopfront; an accessible rocker; connecting pathways; a shade structure; seating; and new landscaping.

Councillor Jared Wright commended Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch, who championed the project to help secure the government funding.

“This project has been years in the making and the tireless advocacy from Adam, the 3 Villages Community Group and the Davistown Progress Association has played an important role in getting this project funded, constructed and delivered for our community,” he said.

“This playspace is already attracting people from right around the Central Coast and I know this will continue into the future.”

Delta expansion plans slammed by advocacy group

Future Sooner, a grassroots public health advocacy group and registered charity, is calling on the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) to reject Delta’s application to expand its Chain Valley Bay collieries.

The group says the application fails in five major areas: no benefit to the public as well as air quality; climate change and greenhouse gas emissions; impact on water resources; impacts to soil and land capability; and biodiversity.

“These are only the top five reasons for the IPC to say no,”

Future Sooner spokesperson Gary Blaschke said.

“There are many more which is why the IPC must refuse Delta’s application.”

Mr Blaschke recently addressed the IPC’s public hearing at Caves Beach where he asked the Commission for a merit-based refusal of the application.

“Four years ago, Delta applied to extend its Chain Valley Bay collieries,” he said.

“Its 2025 colliery expansion application to pollute more hasn’t changed.

“Four years ago, NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s

(DPHI) received more than 180 submissions.

“Of them,130 were objections, many quoting air

pollution as the major health issue.

“Delta’s response to the substantial concerns raised by

the public and experts did nothing to address those issues.

“Back then the DPHI made no decision.

“Four years on, and the DPHI created the IPC to flick the problem it doesn’t want to deal with over to it.

“Delta’s colliery consolidation/ expansion will lead to up to 24 million extra tonnes of CO2 in our atmosphere and thousands of additional tonnes of the toxic and carcinogenic elements that the communities around the colliery and the power station have been living with, and dying from, for decades.

“And let’s not forget that

Delta is about to be sentenced in the NSW Land and Environment Court for two massive fish kills in Lake Macquarie.

“Delta has already demonstrated that whatever consent conditions are imposed, it will ignore them.

“It beggars belief that the IPC could consider, let alone approve, any application from Delta given its history.

“The approval of Delta’s colliery expansion by the IPC would be proof of the NSW Government’s refusal to exercise its duty of care to its citizens and the environment.

“It must not go ahead.”

New social housing projects for seniors and families

Four new housing projects in Wyong will provide safe and secure homes for more than 30 senior residents on the Central Coast and four families in need.

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said the State Government was building more homes, more quickly, thanks to an historic $6.6B investment into social housing to deliver 8,400 new homes across NSW.

He said the Building Homes for NSW program delivered 1,711 new social and affordable homes in the 2024/25 financial year, including five purposebuilt homes in Wyee.

Work to tackle the state’s housing and affordability crisis

is continuing, with a new seniors’ complex in Wyong now ready for nearly a dozen seniors to move in.

The new complex, funded though the $610M Social Housing Accelerator Fund (SHAF), features a mix of oneand two-bedroom units, with on-site parking and easy access to public transport and community greenspace.

Construction is underway on another three projects in Wyong, including 12 seniors’ homes in Cutler Dr and two dual occupancy homes on Owen Ave.

The projects are on track for completion in 2026.

“We know the housing crisis is hitting the Central Coast

community hard, and we’re responding with the largest investment in public and affordable housing in over a decade,” Minister for Housing Rose Jackson said.

in mind were now ready to provide a safe and secure home for older residents who deserve nothing less.

“This new development in Wyong is a clear example of what happens when governments invest in people, and I’m thrilled that we’re seeing that investment right here in Wyong,” he said.

“We’re not just making promises, we’re delivering real results, and these four projects are the proof.

“Many of these homes are targeted towards seniors and that’s about restoring dignity for older residents in need, and making sure no one is left behind.”

“With three more projects already under construction in Wyong, we’re continuing to deliver real outcomes for the community.

Mr Harris said six new social homes designed with seniors

“These homes will offer stability and dignity to seniors and families who’ve spent too long waiting for a place to call home.”

High-speed rail cost estimated at $90B

The Federal Government has commenced the development phase for high-speed rail between Newcastle and Sydney.

The $659.6M two-year development phase will ensure that Line 1 is construction ready.

As recommended by Infrastructure Australia, it is the detailed work required to lock in the design, approvals process, scope and cost to ensure major construction contracts can be awarded.

The government has also released the business case for

the project prepared by the High Speed Rail Authority, which says the project will boost the Australian economy by $250B over the next 50 years and produce over 99,000 new jobs.

High Speed Rail between Newcastle and Sydney will cut travel times to around one hour from Newcastle to Central Sydney, with travel from the Central Coast to either Sydney or Newcastle reduced to just 30 minutes.

The High-Speed Rail Authority estimates that over 60% of the

route between Newcastle and Sydney would be in tunnels, simplifying land approvals and optimising routes, though the budget could be as high as $90B.

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) welcomed the announcement and said the investment would reshape transport and strengthen communities.

RTBU National Secretary Alex Claassens said the funding demonstrated a clear recognition that rail plays a key role in Australia’s future transport mix.

Ramping up call for action on shark mitigation

Central Coast Councillor

Jared Wright has ramped up calls for State Government action on shark control following the recent release of the International Shark Attack File, which confirmed that Australia recorded the world’s highest total of fatal shark attacks on humans in 2025.

“Of 12 fatalities, nine were from Australia,” Cr Wright said. He said he had introduced an Urgency Motion on the issue on January 30, following which Council had written to Minister Tara Moriarty to request a meeting about how the two arms of government could work together to help mitigate the risk of shark attacks across the region’s beaches, with no response received to date.

“Even as we head towards the end of Summer, there is a heightened sense of anxiousness in our community about the risk of shark attack and it is important that we are doing everything we can to help keep people safe,” Cr Wright said.

“Speaking to the community over recent weeks and months, there is a clear need for greater action to be taken to reduce our risk of shark attack.

“We have our Council lifeguards on the beach five days per week and it is important that our local beaches have the best available tools and technology to help keep people safe in the water.”

Cr Wright said there had been several shark sightings at Central Coast beaches over the

Christmas/New Year holiday period.

“This isn’t about throwing it all back on the NSW Government, it’s about looking at how we can work with them to best protect beachgoers,” he said.

“We need more equipment like drones as soon as possible.

“We don’t want to wait until tragedy strikes before we receive extra funding and resources.

“For example, when the smart drumlines aren’t available on a given day, Council lifeguards could undertake extra patrol work or assist in getting messaging out

to the public.

“Drones are inexpensive, easy to use and can be rolled out quickly.

“It’s effective, it doesn’t harm marine life and it provides the community with a sense of comfort and security when they are at the beach.

“The shark listening device at Killcare was offline for many weeks and this put swimmers at greater risk over the Christmas break, when beach visitations were at their peak.

“There is no silver bullet when it comes to mitigating the risk of a shark attack, we need to be using a range of technologies.

“In my view, Avoca Beach is the gold standard here on the Central Coast, they have drone technology, a smart drumline

and a shark listening device.

“When coupled together, these more modern and innovative alternatives to shark nets can significantly decrease the risk of a shark attack.”

The Urgency Motion saw Council call on the NSW Government to increase the use of drone technology for shark attack mitigation and request a meeting with Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty. Council requested an update on the status of the shark listening device at Killcare, an update on the smart drumline program, and an update on the previously proposed trial for removing shark nets and what this might look like for the 2026/27 beach season.

To date no response has been received from the Minister.

Dispose of unwanted household chemicals safely

Central Coast residents can safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals for free at two upcoming Chemical CleanOut weekends.

The events provide a safe and environmentally responsible way to clear out hazardous items from homes, sheds or garages.

The Chemical CleanOuts will be held on February 28 and March 1 at the former Kincumber Waste Management Facility, Cullens Rd, Kincumber, between 9am and 3.30pm.

This facility remains closed,

but is opened for the Chemical CleanOut.

The second weekend will be on March 7 and 8 between 9am and 3.30pm at Council’s Long Jetty depot on the corner of The Entrance and Wyong Rds (turn left into 1 Morris Pl, Bateau Bay).

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said safely getting rid of old household chemicals was an important way residents could protect their families, neighbours and the environment.

“Old or unwanted chemicals sitting around the house can be

Residents can dispose of unwanted chemicals safely and for free

dangerous, especially for children and pets, and pouring them down the drain or putting

them in the bin can seriously harm our environment,” Cr McKinna said.

Marine Rescue training program

Eleven Marine Rescue volunteers were put through the challenging Fire Fighting and Sea Survival training program at Newcastle on Sunday, February 22.

The course was developed by the Brisbane Water training team of Paul Broad (assessor) and Bob Gilbody (trainer). The volunteers came from several units stretching from Point Clare to Port Stephens,

gathering at the Stocktonbased unit of Marine Rescue Newcastle.

Course trainer Bob Gilbody said the volunteers included one woman, “all performing admirably”.

The program featured firefighting, sea survival and flare training, the kind of intense, hands-on preparation that ensures every Marine Rescue team is ready for anything out on the water.

“These free events make it simple for our community to do the right thing.

“I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to clean out cupboards, sheds and garages and dispose of these chemicals safely.”

Council Director Infrastructure Services Boris Bolgoff said a wide range of items would be accepted, including paint, pesticides, gas bottles, fire extinguishers and fluorescent globes – even unknown or unlabelled chemicals can be dropped off.

“Just a reminder, this event is

for residents to dispose of household quantities only,” he said.

“A 20-litre or 20-kilogram limit applies per item, except for paint, which is accepted up to 100 litres in containers of 20 litres or less.”

The Chemical CleanOut program is a NSW Government Waste Less, Recycle More initiative by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Paintback and Central Coast Council.

For more information, search ‘chemical cleanout’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

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.

New cafe planned for Gosford waterfront

Residents can look forward to having a cafe again where Eat St operated near the boat ramp at Gosford waterfront.

An extension of the waterfront path from Gosford pool further south past the sailing club to the end of the waterfront precinct is also planned by Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC).

And an extension east from the existing waterfront shared path and along the foreshore from Point Clare has already been announced.

The extra walking track and the return of the cafe were outlined to Central Coast

Central Coast Councillors

Jared Wright and Kyla Daniels want to set the record straight, with confusion in the community over operating hours at Gosford City Carpark once upgrades are completed.

Cr Wright said the confusion arose from Council’s wording regarding operating hours and stressed that while entry times would be restricted, there would be no restriction on when a vehicle exited the carpark.

“I want to be perfectly clear to the community; these parking upgrades will mean that exit times at the carpark are not restricted, so if you want to head out for dinner in Gosford CBD, you can leave at any time,” he said.

councillors in a report to the February 24 meeting of Council.

A new barbecue and seating area is proposed near the cafe location.

The works will be undertaken by HCCDC and completed by the end of this year.

The waterfront area is Crown land over which Council has care and control responsibilities.

Council notes that the finished work will add depreciation and maintenance costs to Council’s budget, however, the leasing opportunities for a café would provide a positive impact to revenue for Council.

“Based on previous rental for a similar café, revenue is estimated in the vicinity of

$35,000 to $50,000 per annum,” Council said.

“The rental amount would be dependent on size of site,

services available and market demand for the location.

“Depreciation and maintenance would need to be

considered if Council was to build and own the structure.

“Maintenance could possibly be built into the lease and be the responsibility of the tenant.”

In October 2022, while still in Opposition, the now NSW Government committed $8.5M to undertake a comprehensive investigation into the feasibility of creating an iconic Gosford waterfront.

In April 2025, HCCDC wrote to Central Coast Council advising significant challenges to developing the waterfront “at this point in time”.

In July last year, it opened a survey asking the public what it wanted to see and received 3,464 responses.

Clarifying carpark operating hours

“Gosford is building momentum quickly and this project caters for that future growth.

“We want people to have the confidence that if they are out in the CBD in the evening, they don’t have to worry about rushing back to get the car out.

“Kyla and I will also be looking closely at these operating hours to ensure they are fit-for-purpose and if we need to make changes, we will certainly look at that in consultation with Council staff and local stakeholders.”

Cr Daniels said nightlife in Gosford was booming.

“We are now starting to see more and more people heading to our restaurants and entertainment precincts, particularly on a weekend,” she said.

“Many restaurants are now booked out well in advance, which showcases that our small businesses are really starting to thrive in and around Gosford.

“These upgrades also provide important safety benefits, as people can drive into Gosford and drive home whenever they need, without having to worry about connecting public

transport or rideshare services.”

Council reminds motorists that from March 2, no cash payments will be accepted at the carpark – only debit or credit card payments at either the paystation or the exit boom gates will be accepted.

From mid-March, new ANPR technology will be installed to further streamline entry and exit of the carpark.

This will include numberplate recognition, removing the need for parking tickets.

Once the new technology is operational, after-hours exit will be available at any time, for all users.

Once the new ANPR technology is fully operational at the end of March, Council will begin a six-month trial

The main reasons people visited the waterfront were to walk (72%), with most respondents visiting several times per week (23%).

People wanted to see café/ dining options, more walking and cycling paths, seating/ picnic tables, green open space and shade.

They also suggested improving lighting and security measures (34%) and better pedestrian connection to the Gosford CBD (31%).

HCCDC is identifying projects that can be delivered in the longer term, depending on feasibility and funding, including upgrades to Gosford pool.

which will allow vehicles to enter the carpark between 6am and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, between 8am and 9pm on Sundays and public holidays, and between 6am and 8pm Monday-Thursday. Vehicles can exit at any time during these hours by paying at the boom gates on departure. If departing the carpark outside these hours, motorists will need to pay at the groundfloor payment station.

Once fees have been paid, the lift will operate to the floor the vehicle is parked on.

The vehicle can then be driven to the boom gates, which will open (along with roller shutters) once the licence plate has been scanned. The roller door security is to deter anti-social behaviour.

Community garden officially flourishing

Four years ago, the call went out for a community garden at Terrigal – it’s now a reality.

President of Terrigal Community Garden Marianne Hamilton officiated at the grand opening on Saturday, February 21.

‘‘It’s been a long time coming – four years in fact, since I put out this post on Facebook about starting a community garden,’’ she said.

Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch and Central Coast

Mayor Lawrie McKinna were in attendance and Robyn Sutherland from Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council read an Acknowledgement of Country.

The garden found an auspicing body in Terrigal Neighourhood Centre, managed by Marie Leadbitter who helped the gardeners organise a

community consultation, and obtain a NSW Government grant until they were incorporated in 2024 and signed a lease with Central Coast Council in 2025.

A team of dedicated volunteers and many local sponsors have helped to bring this dream to reality, Ms Hamilton said.

”Thriving garden beds with the names of Australian birds

such as Rainbow Lorikeet and Kookaburra in a beautiful central location on the corner of Duffys Rd and Terrigal Dr, adjacent to the 50+ Leisure Centre, make this the ideal place for community members to come together in a relaxed atmosphere to grow food and learn together,” she said.

Follow the group on Facebook or go and check out the garden beds.

IPART survey ahead of proposed rates increase

From page 1

For small houses, units and apartments, it’s a 9.5 % total increase.

IPART will seek community feedback on this proposal in early March.

IPART is urging residents to do the survey or put in a submission on the stormwater pricing proposal to inform its assessment of the application. ”We are seeking feedback from stakeholders about the affordability of the proposed rate increase; community awareness of the proposed

changes and Council’s cost management,” IPART says on its website.

Council says the charge provides funding for stormwater drainage services including floodplain risk management planning, asset planning,

maintenance and capital construction.

Previous resident feedback included complaints that council was being disingenuous about not paying more because without the submission to IPART residents would be paying less from July 1.

Council admitted that the majority of previous submissions opposed the proposal, and were in favour of passing on savings to ratepayers, but in making the IPART application, Council considered its ongoing financial sustainability as well as

community expectations regarding service levels.

The IPART survey and submissions close on March 9.

To locate the survey, search for ‘Special Variations & Minimum Rates 2026-27’ at: www.ipart.nsw.gov.au

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For life minded people

Funds to help connect communities

Central Coast Council has welcomed funding through the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government to deliver ‘Connected Communities’ – an initiative designed to strengthen community connections, particularly supporting people from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

The grant is part of a statewide program designed to support local councils to build stronger, more resilient and more cohesive communities by addressing issues like hate, division and social isolation.

capability to design, implement and evaluate social cohesion initiatives.

“It helps us better understand the needs of our community and deliver programs and initiatives that genuinely make a difference.

“Every person on the Coast deserves to feel welcomed, valued and able to contribute.”

Smith said the survey would help shape future programs and initiatives.

“Our partnership with Mosaic Multicultural Connections strengthens our ability to engage inclusively with diverse communities and ensure emerging groups feel supported and empowered,” she said.

“Their insights are essential to shaping a more welcoming, connected Central Coast.

For the first time in living memory, five Marine Rescue Brisbane Water volunteers have been awarded Member of the Month status.

Announcing the selection at the February unit meeting, Unit Commander Ian Morrow highly praised the efforts of the five members who worked in 41-degree heat on a Saturday

It supports Council’s commitment to fostering a prosperous and accessible place to live, work and play for today and future generations.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie

Connected Communities focuses on strengthening inclusion and connections by gathering community insights, co-designing ways forward and supporting communitybased initiatives.

McKinna said funding for the Connected Communities initiative would help Council address local challenges and was important to ensure that the Central Coast remained a place where everyone felt safe, valued and able to contribute.

“Our community is home to people from many different backgrounds and life experiences and that diversity strengthens who we are as a region,” Cr McKinna said.

“This initiative plays a vital role in building Council’s

As part of the initiative, Council is partnering with Mosaic Multicultural Connections – a not-for-profit organisation supporting culturally diverse communities across the Hunter and Central Coast – to deepen grassroots engagement and ensure that emerging community groups have their voices heard.

Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie

Kudos for Marine Rescue volunteers

in December to position several huge sandstone blocks as work on the Unit’s Memorial Garden began.

The men’s hard work continued through a hot December and January, and the memorial to past members is expected to soon have finishing touches added.

The five members acknowledged were Kevin

The memorial is a tribute to previous MRBW members who have died or “crossed the bar”.

Former partners will soon be invited to a gathering at the Point Clare base to inspect the monument.

“The Connected Communities Survey is now open, giving all residents the opportunity to share what belonging and safety mean to them.”

The survey closes on April 19. To take part, search ‘Connected Communities’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com

Support grows for traffic-free Terrigal Esplanade

The community has overwhelmingly backed a new vision for an open and pedestrian-friendly Terrigal Esplanade, following a community survey conducted by Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch.

Mr Crouch launched the survey to gather local feedback on the future of the Esplanade, receiving more than 1,600 responses.

Of those who participated, 1,437 respondents, almost 90%, supported a public, open and pedestrian-friendly Terrigal Esplanade.

“This survey was a great opportunity for our community to have their say on what they want the future of the Terrigal Esplanade to look like,” Mr Crouch said.

“I want to sincerely thank everyone who provided feedback.

“This process allowed people to put forward their ideas, suggestions, and comments, and to share what Terrigal Esplanade means to them.

“With more than 1,600 people taking part, it’s clear that the community wants to see better connections between the beach, businesses and public

areas along the Terrigal Esplanade.”

The feedback showed that a

more pedestrian-friendly Esplanade would encourage people to spend more time in

Terrigal, with 79% of respondents saying they would stay longer to shop and dine.

When asked about the benefits of a potential closure, respondents overwhelmingly identified improving the outdoor amenity as the most important outcome, followed closely by reduced car use and improved air quality.

Local advocate Gabrielle Streater, who worked with Mr Crouch to develop the survey, said the results reflected the community’s views about the future of the Esplanade.

“It will literally be a breath of fresh air for Terrigal, not to

mention being able to hear only the sound of the beach and people instead of motors revving and idling beside us,” Ms Streater said.

“I truly believe that creating a space free of motor vehicles will give our community and tourists alike a safe and enjoyable place to relax, to move about freely and spend time.”

Mr Crouch said he would work closely with Central Coast Council and the community to shape longer-term plans for the Terrigal Esplanade.

Latest update on Avoca Dr upgrade

Utility investigations along Avoca Dr at Kincumber and nearby streets are being undertaken by Transport for NSW as part of a $130M upgrade.

The investigations will help progress the concept design for the priority first stage.

The Australian and NSW governments are funding the upgrade to improve traffic flow

and deliver infrastructure for active and public transport access on Avoca Dr through Kincumber.

“This upgrade of Avoca Dr is an important infrastructure investment by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments on the Central Coast,” Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said.

“For too long motorists have had to endure congestion

during morning and afternoon peak periods.

“This upgrade will bust congestion along this section of Avoca Dr and enable a quicker, safer, and smoother passage for motorists through the suburb.

“As the Federal Member for Robertson, I am passionate about improving infrastructure across the region.

“Improving infrastructure is good for productivity, safety, jobs, and, more broadly, the economy of the Central Coast.

“I will continue to update the community as this project progresses.”

For more information about the Avoca Dr upgrade in Kincumber or to access the February 2026 update, search ‘Avoca Drive’ at www.transport.nsw.gov.au

Coast Connect

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Seniors Festival shines

Are you one of our wonderful senior community members?

We’re celebrating our seniors with the muchanticipated annual Seniors Festival! This year’s festival offers more than 80 free or affordable events across the Central Coast, specially curated with you in mind. You can enjoy favourite activities or discover new interests. Choose from a games morning at Umina Beach Library, try Aqua Fitness at Toukley Aquatic Centre, try candle making at Brentwood Kincumber, get garden know-how at Lake Haven library and much, much more. Or maybe you’d like to workout from the comfort of your own home with Carol’s online fitness – the options are endless. You can find the full program of activities on Council’s website by searching for ‘2026 Seniors Festival’.

A highlight of the festival you won’t want to miss is the popular Seniors Expo. Held at Wyong Race Club on Thursday 5 March from 10am-1pm, the Expo is an opportunity for you to meet local groups and organisations, gather information about local services and explore activities that support wellbeing and lifelong learning. It really is a goldmine of resources for seniors.

The Central Coast Seniors Festival aligns with the NSW Seniors Festival and the theme for 2026 is ‘Live Life in Colour’, reflecting our seniors’ diversity, creativity and energy.

I hope you enjoy this year’s activities, meet new friends and discover something new.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna

The next Council meeting will be held at Gosford Regional Library at 6.30pm on Tuesday 24 March.

Search ‘Council meetings’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

What’s on?

Chemical CleanOut returns

Safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals at our upcoming Chemical CleanOut events.

Kincumber

Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March 9am-3.30pm

Long Jetty

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March 9am-3.30pm

Search ‘chemical cleanout’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Dredging program commenced at The Entrance

The dredging program for The Entrance Channel commenced on Monday 16 February and will continue through to mid-May to support flood preparedness within the Tuggerah Lakes estuary. During this time, Karagi Reserve carpark will remain closed.

Search ‘dredging program’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au to learn more.

Building connected communities

We received funding through NSW Social Cohesion Grants for ‘Connected Communities’, a new initiative supporting safety and inclusion on the Coast. Residents are invited to complete a short survey on what belonging means to them, with feedback helping guide the region’s multicultural growth.

Search ‘connected communities’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com to share your thoughts.

Have your say on Gosford’s night-time future

We’re exploring the idea of establishing a Special Entertainment Precinct in Gosford to support live music, performance and later-night businesses –helping to grow a vibrant night-time economy. Now we want to hear from you: do you support this proposal?

Check out the proposed boundary and complete the short survey at yourvoiceourcoast.com

New playspace in Davistown

The brand-new playspace at Illoura Reserve, Davistown has officially sprung to life and is ready to explore! Designed for climbing, swinging, jumping and imaginative play, this vibrant new space is already shaping up to be a favourite place for the whole community to gather, play and stay active.

Search ‘Illoura Reserve playspace’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au to explore more.

Did you know?

How to protect your pet rabbits

From 2 March 2026, a rabbit control program will release calicivirus across Central Coast areas. Vaccinate pet rabbits early, mosquito-proof hutches, contain rabbits and maintain hygiene to reduce disease risk during coordinated releases on public and private land region-wide program. Search ‘rabbit control program’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Council must enforce its own rules

How many times do residents have to complain before Central Coast Council enforces its own rules?

At The Entrance and other busy public areas, signs say No Bicycle Riding, No Fishing from the Wharf, and No Smoking — yet these rules are openly ignored every day, with no visible rangers or compliance officers to uphold them.

I have written to Council many times about this ongoing problem.

Almost every response was generic and unhelpful, offering no real solution.

Only one staff member returned my call.

While courteous, they focused on new bike and pedestrian pathways — not the bigger problem of enforcement in high-traffic areas.

FORUM

This staff member also said Council was “broke,” implying a lack of funds prevented action.

Budget concerns may be real, but residents have to ask: is this genuine, or just a way to discourage people from reporting problems?

Public safety and community amenity cannot be ignored, and financial excuses cannot justify leaving rules unenforced.

It shouldn’t take hundreds of complaints for action to be taken.

In a proper system, a single well-founded complaint should be enough to trigger enforcement.

Signs without action are meaningless, and repeated breaches erode trust in local governance.

Many residents also feel Council staffing is out of balance — too many office and managerial roles, too few frontline officers.

While exact numbers aren’t public, the lack of visible enforcement shows that resources are not prioritised where they matter most.

Council exists to serve the community, not the other way around.

Residents shouldn’t have to protest repeatedly just to see basic rules enforced.

Elected councillors must take these concerns seriously and ensure council is accountable, competent, and responsive.

If the job isn’t getting done, residents have the power to hold councillors accountable at

election time and elect representatives who will prioritise action, enforcement, and effective management.

If Council continues to ignore these issues, residents may also seek support or oversight from the state government to ensure public safety and compliance.

The community deserves more than signs ignored and rules broken.

It deserves a council that works for us, enforces what it promises, and keeps our public spaces safe and enjoyable.

Enough waiting; it’s time for action.

Email, Jan 17 Jim Boyd, The Entrance

Rules need more enforcing

As I began to write about the need for our State Labor Government to pass new laws (rules) to control the safe use of e-bikes and e-scooters, I became

Knife-wielding woman charged

A woman will face court after being charged with allegedly threatening members of the public with a knife at a shopping centre in Lake Haven.

At about 5pm on Monday, February 16, officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District were called to the shopping centre on Goobarabah Ave, Lake Haven, following reports that a woman was holding a knife.

On arrival, police were told the woman was allegedly waving the knife at people and threatening to stab them before she was disarmed and restrained by security and

aware that our local Member Adam Crouch has been actively working with his party leadership to develop new purposeful laws to address this serious matter that is resulting in serious injury and tragically a recent death.

I trust this will happen ‘sooner than later’.

I then reflected on all the other breaches of rules, many that pose a serious safety risk to people, occurring in our waterside suburbs – like jet skis exceeding the speed limit and proximity to swimmers, boat moorings longer than the approved timeframe on public wharfs and illegal rubbish dumping.

There are rules (laws) to forbid these transgressions but the reason they continue is that the law enforcers (police, maritime, council etc) just don’t take enforcement seriously.

It makes me wonder if the Labor Government takes the

people’s safety seriously, especially after the Bondi massacre.

All of our State MPs on the Central Coast need to lobby police, council etc to do the job that the legislation requires of them.

Email, Feb 1

Alan Pappas, Umina Beach ‘User pays’ protests

Protests unite some people and divide others and the taxpayers cover the costs.

Perhaps we might consider a ‘user pays’ when a group registers to hold a protest and makes a down payment towards the cost of additional police presence and medical staff as well as the cost of installing safety barriers, the loss of business for some outlets and delays and interruption of traffic.

Email, Feb 23

members of the community.

A 22-year-old man sustained an injury to his finger during the incident.

There were no other reports of injuries.

The 38-year-old woman was arrested and taken to Wyong Hospital for assessment.

Following her release from hospital, she was taken to Wyong Police Station where she was charged with three offences – affray, use knife in public place – cause person to fear for safety and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The woman was refused bail until her court appearance.

Man faces court over child abuse

A Lake Munmorah man is facing child abuse charges following his arrest by detectives attached to State Crime Command’s Child Abuse Squad.

It was the squad’s 21st arrest already this year.

The 67-year-old man was taken into custody on Friday, January 16. He was charged at Wyong Police Station on two counts of intentionally sexually touching a child aged between 10 and 16 years (domestic violence).

Police pursuit ends at Wyee

On Monday, February 16, at about 9.25am police were conducting stationary speed enforcement duties on the M1 at Mardi when a vehicle passed at an alleged estimated speed of no less than 150km/h.

Subsequent inquiries revealed that the SUV had allegedly been stolen from a home in Gosford overnight.

It later allegedly side-swiped another vehicle on the M1 at Bushells Ridge and following a search for the driver a 19-yearold man was arrested at Wyee Railway Station at about 10.40am. He was charged with six offences and granted strict conditional bail to appear before Wyong Local Court on Wednesday, March 4.

Teens injured in bike crash

Police and emergency service were called to Eastern Rd at about 1.50pm on Thursday, February 19, when two boys riding a motorbike that collided with two vehicles, throwing the boys from the bike.

The boys, aged 15 and 17, were treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics.

The younger boy, believed to be the passenger, was airlifted

to John Hunter hospital in a critical condition.

The older boy, believed to be the rider, was flown by Careflight to the Royal North Shore Hospital in a serious condition.

The drivers of the other vehicles were not injured.

Police urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

This Autumn, art will come to life when Avoca Beach Studios invites the public into working studios from 10am-5pm on Sunday, March 1.

Enjoy a rare, behind-thescenes experience as you meet the artists face-to-face, step into their creative environments, and gain insight into the processes behind painting, sculpture and mixed media practices.

The event is part of the renowned 5 Lands Art Studios

Meet the artists at Avoca studios

with all participating artists being members of the 5 Lands Artists Collective.

Many studios will offer original works available for purchase directly from the makers — an opportunity to acquire art straight from the source.

Artists opening their studios on the day will include Ann Parker, Maksim Kuznetcov, Margaret Fortey, Janet Cobb and Jane Gillings.

Ann Parker is an awardwinning artist and teacher with

Catch Divas at Avoca Beach

Direct from Canada, awardwinning international performer Bonnie Kilroe will bring her hit live show Divas: She’s Every Woman to Avoca Beach Theatre on March 1.

The high-energy, one-woman show pays homage to classic divas while blending current pop culture in hilarious mashups, bringing audiences of all ages together for a night of music,laughter,and celebration.

Known for her rapid-fire costume changes, audience interaction, and powerhouse vocals, Kilroe creates unforgettable, joyous experiences wherever she performs.

“In a time of much unrest online and rising levels of depression and anxiety, I hope my show brings welcome laughter, connection, and a joyful escape for audiences,” she said.

more than 25 years’ experience, whose work has featured in Australian Artist Magazine.

A self-described “restless painter,” she works across multiple mediums and genres, guided by experimentation and inspiration.

Maksim Kuznetcov, a sculptor known for his expressive, nature- and emotion-inspired forms, will be welcoming visitors to his newly completed, purpose-built studio space, offering an insight into the stages of sculptural creation.

“Australian audiences are incredibly warm, and I’m thrilled to be touring the NSW coast.”

Kilroe has toured Canada, Europe, Mexico, and the US, performing in theatres, festivals, casinos, and corporate events.

Her accolades include Most Unique Act, Best Comedy, Best Costume, The Carol Burnett Award, and The Award of Excellence at the Las Vegas Reel Awards and the Sunburst Convention of Professional Celebrity Impersonators in Florida.

Her shows have been praised as “a powerhouse of vocal versatility” and “the ultimate girls’ night out”.

The show will play at 1.30pm on Sunday, March 1, at Avoca Beach Theatre.

To book search ‘divas’ at humanitix.com

and oil paintings,

for their

and flowing forms.

Janet Cobb will open her beautiful studio, where she will demonstrate her drawing and painting techniques and share the inspiration behind her exquisite works.

Jane Gillings, a multidisciplinary artist, will open the doors to her unique studio space tailored to her diverse creative practice.

GOSFORD 5 DAY FORECAST

Studios are located throughout Avoca Beach village.

Accessibility varies between locations; visitors are encouraged to contact individual artists with specific enquiries.

Some artists may also open at alternative times or by appointment.

A printable PDF flyer is available online, and updates will be posted prior to the event.

Visitors are encouraged to

stroll between the participating studios, meet the artists, and experience the variety of styles, materials, and techniques that shape their work.

From sculpture and painting to silk art and ceramics, the self-guided art trail will celebrate the diversity and passion of Avoca’s creative community.

More details can be found at www.5landsartstudios.com

Julian James performs at special Blues on the Mountain

There is a profound difference between playing the blues and living them.

For award-winning singersongwriter Julian James, that distinction has dissolved over years spent living full-time in a bus, traversing the asphalt veins of Australia and Europe.

On February 6, James and his band, The Moonshine State, released Prey to the Crow, a record that doesn’t just reference the road — it sounds like it.

James is now touring the new album and will perform at Mangrove Mountain on March 6 in a special Blues on the Mountain night with Melbourne

duo White Lightning joining in as special guests.

Produced by ARIA winner Matt Fell, Prey to the Crow is a masterclass in modern hill country blues, a style defined by hypnotic, driving rhythms and raw, unvarnished storytelling.

While the record captures the thunderous groove of The Moonshine State in full flight, its soul is rooted in James’s reality – the intimate, high-wire act of touring as a duo with his wife and musical partner, Beci Kate.

That tension – between the solitude of the highway and the sweat-soaked energy of a

Early bird tickets for Words on the Waves

As the 2026 Words on the Waves writer’s festival approaches in May, Weekend Pass Early Bird ticketing offer is now live.

With a $40 saving, the Weekend Pass (May 30 and May 31), entitles buyers to eight author talks from a choice of 24.

With the festival getting

bigger and bigger each year, this sees the addition of a third venue to the early bird pass –the Festival Marquee at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct (Umina Beach), in addition to Umina SLSC and Ocean Beach SLSC.

Weekend Pass authors currently on the list include: award-winning political commentator Niki Savva;

founder of The Greens party Bob Brown; crime fiction writer and human rights activist Tara Moss; former Governor General Dame Quentin Bryce; Tasmanian literary fiction writer Heather Rose; founder of the I Quit Sugar movement, MasterChef host, author and podcaster Sarah Wilson; and acclaimed speech writer and historian Don Watson.

March 18 will see an opening address with lineup and ticketing release and on March 25 the full festival program will be made public.

The festival will take place from May 27-June 1 at various venues.

Early bird passes are on sale for $150 until March 17 at wordsonthewaves.com.au

Central Coast

festival stage – fuels the album’s 11 tracks.

In a career-defining collaboration, the album features a guest appearance by Blues hall of famer Charlie Musselwhite on a reimagined version of the Muddy Waters classic, Catfish.

Musselwhite’s harmonica acts as a stamp of authenticity, bridging the gap between the Delta’s history and James’s distinctively Australian interpretation.

The record’s “roots-first” production is bolstered by Pete Denahy with fiery fiddle performances, Hussy Hicks with rich, layered vocal harmonies and Matt Fell

capturing the atmosphere of a juke joint late at night.

“This record comes from years of living on the road,” James said.

“Beci and I live in a bus and we’re almost always on tour.

“These songs didn’t come from a writing room; they grew out of real places, real nights, and real people we’ve met along the way.

“Having Pete, Matt, and the Hussy Hicks involved felt natural, and getting Charlie to play harp on Catfish was a dream come true.”

The show will be on at Mangrove Mountain Hall on March 6.

Household Chemical CleanOut

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Music at Killcare

Each Wednesday from 10.30am-12.30pm, the lower level of the Killcare Surf Life Saving Club comes alive with the sound of classic tunes.

A dedicated four-piece ensemble, featuring keyboard, bass, violin, and drums, has been performing at the venue for the past eight years, drawing a loyal crowd of locals.

Their repertoire spans form the 1950s to the early 2000s, offering songs rarely heard in mainstream venues today.

The musicians play simply for the joy of it, describing the weekly session as their “musical fix”, and their performances have become a highlight for many residents.

Set against sweeping ocean views and just steps from the kiosk known for its morning teas and lunches, the gatherings offer a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy good music, good company, and community spirit.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Get social and enjoy a wee bit of Scottish dancing

People of all ages are invited to step onto the dance floor and discover one of Scotland’s most joyful and sociable traditions – dancing.

Gosford Scottish Social Dancers is hosting the fiveweek course starting on Wednesday March 4 at 7pm at Wyoming.

The cost for the full course is $40, making it an affordable and enjoyable way to stay active and meet new people.

Group spokesperson Suzanne Ness said Scottish social

dancing was a lively and welcoming form of dance that combines music, movement, teamwork, and fun.

“Dancers usually work with a partner in groups of eight, moving together through a series of figures and patterns,” she said.

“If you have two left feet that’s absolutely fine as no prior dance experience is required, just a willingness to learn, enjoy yourself.

“This unique style of dancing offers far more than learning steps.

“It’s a fantastic way to stay physically active, improving balance, co-ordination, and stamina in a gentle but effective way.

“Just as importantly, Scottish social dancing provides strong mental benefits: remembering sequences, listening to the music, and working together as a team helps keep the brain sharp and engaged.”

Ms Ness said the social side was at the heart of Scottish country dancing.

“Dancers change partners regularly, support one another

through the dances, and share plenty of laughter along the way,” she said.

“It’s a wonderful way to build confidence, make friends, and feel part of a friendly, supportive community.

“Above all, Scottish social dancing is fun.

“Set to lively traditional music, classes are relaxed, inclusive, and full of energy.

“Mistakes are inevitable and are often part of the laughter.”

The course will finish on a high note, with the final night

celebrated by a Ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee), a traditional Scottish party featuring music, dancing, and plenty of good cheer.

“Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a fun way to get moving, or a reason to get out and connect with others, Scottish social dancing offers something truly special and might just be your perfect match,” she said.

To register and for further information, please use Trybooking Gosford Scottish Social Dancing.

Top-notch duo performs at Everglades

Troubadour Folk Club will present its first major concert of the year when internationally acclaimed duo Michael Fix and Christine Collister perform at the Everglades Club on Friday, February 27.

Finger-style guitarist Fix teams up with Collister, from the Isle of Man, in the opening concert of their 2026 Australian tour.

They will present many of the greatest ballads and popular music classics of the past 50 years – from the Beatles and Bob Dylan through to Roberta Flack and Aretha Franklin –

along with a few of their own compositions.

Each performer will have solo moments as well as the duo performances in which they complement each other’s talents.

On the back of their newly released CD, they promise to have you crying, laughing and tapping your toes in equal measure.

Christine Collister has a hauntingly beautiful voice.

Her professional recording career began in the 1980s; she came to national attention in the UK singing the 1987 theme for the BBC television series

The Life and Loves Of A She Devil.

She has sung with many of the greats, including a long stint with Richard Thomson’s famous band, and is a familiar name on the UK, USA and European live scenes and as a performer at all major festivals from Glastonbury to Winnipeg to Cambridge.

Michael Fix began performing in his home town of Wollongong at the age of 12 and was later discovered by Tommy Emmanuel.

Fix played with the acclaimed folk band Hat Trick, and later with Graeme Connors.

He has won the Golden Guitar Award at Tamworth three times and numerous other awards in Australia and overseas.

Over the past three decades, he has released 15 albums together with several singles and EPs, and has established himself globally as a leading performer, appearing at festivals and concert venues across Australia, Europe and Asia.

The show will be at 7pm on Friday, February 27 at Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy. Book at www.troubadour. org.au

The British are coming – well, at least their songs are

Get ready to twist and shout as Britishmania storms the Art House for an unforgettable night of classic hits that shaped music history on February 28.

This two-hour musical spectacular brings to life the songs that defined a generation and took the world by storm.

From the British influx of the 60s to the rock and pop

anthems of the 70s, Britishmania celebrates the timeless music of legendary artists including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Tom Jones, Cliff Richard, The Bee Gees, The Animals, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Herman’s Hermits and The Searchers.

With hits like Help, Penny Lane, Satisfaction, House of the Rising Sun, Your Song, Summer Holiday, and Ferry Cross the Mersey, the show will transport

What’s On What’s On What’s On What’s On

THU 26 FEB

Gemma Glendenning: Gosford RSL Club 5pm FRI 27 FEB

DOWNSIZE WITH CONFIDENCE & OPEN DAY: BRENTWOOD VILLAGE, KINCUMBER 10:30 - 2PM

DINNER WITH FRIENDS: WOY WOY LITTLE THEATRE [* TO 8 MAR]

Workshops at Hamlyn Terrace Community Centre

1. Love Water Garden Wisely: Wicking Bed Garden (9:30am): 2. Protect Your Pipes: Green Cleaning (12:30am)

Gosford Comedy Club: FunHaus Factory Gosford 6pm

Music Mates: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

Letters to Lions: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 8pm

Neil Young’s ‘Harvest’ Played By The Honey Sliders: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

Gerard Masters: Gosford RSL Club 8.30pm

Ashpit + Bullshit Artiste + Open Module: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 6pm

SAT 28 FEB

HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL CLEANOUT: KINCUMBER WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITY ON CULLENS RD [+ 1 MAR] SEE PG14

Tip The Hat: Link & Pin, Woy Woy 1pm

Mardi Gras Viewing Party!: Funhaus Factory Gosford 6pm

30+ Day Party!: Drifters Wharf, Gosford 5pm

Country Mates with Ohana & Murrells: Hardys Bay Club 6pm

Budi Bone / Jamie Lindsay Trio: Gosford RSL Club 2pm / 8.30pm

you back to the golden days of vinyl, transistor radios and screaming fans.

Fronted by the internationally acclaimed entertainer Glenn Starr, Britishmania showcases a powerhouse performance that blends nostalgia with fresh energy.

With a career spanning more than 20 years, Starr has entertained audiences across Australia and beyond with an extraordinary ability to replicate

KINDNESS FOR KOOLEWONG FUNDRAISER: SIMPLICITY FUNERALS, WOY WOY 10AM

Football: Central Coast Mariners Mens Vs Newcastle Jets FC: polytec Stadium, Gosford 5pm

Rockin’ The 70’s with The Classic Kings: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

Comedy For A Cause Coastal Cruisers: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 8pm

SUN 1 MAR

JAZZ & DANCING: PARKVIEW ROOM AT CENTRAL COAST LEAGUES CLUB, GOSFORD 2-5PM

Salsa Social Sundays! Featuring Kachimbaz: Funhaus Factory Gosford 3pm

Velvet Soul: Gosford RSL Club 1pm

the distinct voices of the legendary artists to perfection.

From the raspy grit of Eric Burdon of The Animals to the deep, rich, velvety tones of Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck, Starr masterfully captures the essence of each performer, delivering every song with authenticity and passion.

Book tickets at www. thearthousewyong.com.au

Cookbook Club: Cook, Share & Savour: Women’s Shed Central Coast, Berkeley Vale 11.30am

Rebecca O’Connor As Tina Turner “Simply The Best”: Avoca Beach Theatre 8pm

NRL Vegas 2026 Watch Party!: Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 12pm

DIVAS - She’s Every Woman: Avoca Beach Theatre 1.30pm

MON 2 MAR

Seniors Festival 2026: Various locations across the Central Coast [* to 15 Mar]

SF: Garden Chat: Lake Haven Library 11am

TUE 3 MAR

SF: Grandparents Storytime: Various libraries 10.30am

DISABILITY MATTERS: FREE WORKSHOP AND INFO SESSION: MINGARA RECREATION CLUB, TUMBI UMBI 10AM

SF: Colour Me Calm: Lake Haven Library 2.30pm

WED 4 MAR

DISABILITY MATTERS: FREE WORKSHOP AND INFO SESSION: MINGARA RECREATION CLUB, TUMBI UMBI 10AM

OB3 FEATURING IVONA ROSE: OCEAN BEACH HOTEL, UMINA BEACH 7PM

Keith Potger: Celebrating the Seekers - 60 Years Show: Gosford Library 11am

StoryQuest: Beasts: Umina Beach Library 3.30pm

Art Exhibition – The Jewel Within: Funhaus Factory Gosford [* to 30 Mar]

Gosford Scottish Social Dancing: 5 Week Beginner Course: Coast Bible Church Hall, Wyoming 6:45pm each week

SF: Staying Safe Online for Seniors: Gosford Library 10.30am

THU 5 MAR

DISABILITY MATTERS: FREE WORKSHOP AND INFO SESSION: GOSFORD RSL CLUB, WEST GOSFORD 10AM

The Fab Four: The Art House Theatre, Wyong 7:30pm Seniors Expo 2026: Wyong Race Club 10am

SF: Agatha Christie Bingo and Trivia: Toukley Library 11am

SF: Exercise Your Brain: Erina Library 12pm

Gossy Gay Times: FunHaus Factory Gosford 6pm

OUT&ABOUT BRIEF

Sounds of New Orleans

The sound of the French Quarter of New Orleans will come alive when Eric Gibbons’ New Orleans Ramblers play Central Coast Leagues Club on Sunday, March 1.

The Newcastle-based band plays great music for dancing, delivering joyous rhythms, rich melodies and classic Crescent City spirit, deep musical intuition, and infectious sense of groove.

A cornerstone of Australia’s jazz scene, Gibbon brings warmth, drive, and authenticity to every performance.

Along with Gibbons on trombone and saxophone, the band features Peter Buckland on reeds, Guy Thomson on metal double bass, Rachel Hamilton on piano, Greg Griffiths on banjo and Will Goeldner on drums.

The band will play in the Parkview room on Sunday, March 1, from 2-5 pm and the $10 entry fee includes a strip of raffle tickets with great prizes.

See full story online: coastcommunitynews.com.au

Let

The Fun Haus Factory is inviting Central Coast audiences to let go of stress and laugh until it hurts when the Gosford Comedy Club returns on Friday, February 27.

A vibrant lineup of comedians will deliver an end-of-week comedy experience designed to lift spirits and bring people together.

Equal parts sharp stand-up and feel-good night out, the show has become a go-to for locals looking for something social, inclusive, and genuinely fun to kick off their weekend.

Headlining the evening will be acclaimed comedian Steph Broadbridge, a familiar face

stress at the comedy club

across Australia’s major comedy stages.

Having performed at Just for Laughs, Splendour in the Grass, the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Broadbridge brings polished storytelling and quickfire humour that has earned national recognition.

A RAW Comedy National Finalist, her debut solo show was shortlisted for Best Comedy at Sydney Fringe Festival and nominated for Best Newcomer at Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Guiding the night as MC will be Sydney comedian Laura Coleman, whose sharp

50+ Leisure Centre

observations and fearless comedic voice have seen her perform across the country and present three solo festival shows.

A two-time RAW Comedy finalist, Coleman is known for

creating an atmosphere that feels both electric and warmly inclusive.

The lineup also features British comedian Mark MacIsaac, whose hit show My Wife Comes First hilariously unpacks modern relationships and gender expectations through self-aware storytelling and distinctly British humour.

Joining him will be Sydneybased performer Henry Zhu, an experienced stand-up and multi-format host with festival credits and musical comedy roots, and Jacob Perry, the cheeky Aussie larrikin whose comedy journey has taken him from Sydney stages to Dublin’s iconic Temple Bar scene. Doors open at 6pm for a $15 cocktail happy hour, with burgers and street food from Beau’s Burgers. Head to funhausfactory.org. au for tickets.

Ettalong 50+ opens its doors

Ettalong 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre is inviting all seniors to pop in for a visit from Monday to Friday, March 2-6, as part of the Seniors Festival (March 2-15).

The festival celebrates the invaluable contributions seniors make to the community — in the workforce, through volunteering, and as neighbours, friends, parents, and grandparents.

“We’re open from 9am3.30pm, and we’d love you to drop in, explore our centre, and see what we’re all about,” centre Vice-President Vic Deeble said.

“Have a try of one of our many activities, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and meet our friendly members who help make the centre a true community.

“We look forward to greeting you and sharing what makes

Ettalong 50 Plus a special place for learning, connection, and for having fun with your fellow seniors.

“No need to book — just come along.”

To contact the centre or view its activity program, go to www.ettalong50plus.org.au where you can download or browse the schedule.

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Iraq’s neighbour

4. Magazine subscribers

8. Sigh of relief

11. Baby’s disposable

13. Actress, ... Knightley

15. Ring up 17. Mafia godfather

18. Expiring

20. Dejected

21. Suez or Panama

24. Rock guitarist, ... Van Halen

27. Golf ball holder

28. Fringe benefits

30. Impenetrable (jungle)

31. Sorcery

33. Daisy-like flowers

34. Drink habitually

35. Yes votes

36. US astronauts’ HQ

39. Restricts (4,2)

42. Flair

44. Old video style

45. Prepares for take-off

46. Drawing pin

48. Matching card suit

49. Oscar-winner, ... Witherspoon

50. Puncture with knife 52. Bolshevik leader

Between

Drifter

Open shoe

Not hard

Unreliable

Repeated

Underground hollow

Arabian folklore creature

Distend

Stately

Wealthy LA suburb, ... Air

Irritate

Overlooks 77. Peat landscape 79. Waikiki welcome

Authorise 82. Stupid (remark)

Dressed to the ...

Ceases

MISSING

88. Judge DOWN 1. Scamps 2. Positive pole 3. Mum’s mum 4. Film star, ... Gosling 5. Confuses 6. Writer, ... Hemingway 7.

Collision

Most impetuous

Exhibition features artworks by women with disability

An art exhibition by Central Coast women with disability has been awarded $19,400 by the State Government to celebrate women’s achievements and empower them to seize new opportunities during 2026 Women’s Week.

Fairhaven Services received the grant for Voices Unheard: Celebrating Female Artists with Disability, a week-long art exhibition running March 2-8 at its Op Shopping Village in Point Clare.

Fairhaven’s retail manager Hannah Atkin said the concept for the exhibition grew from recognising a persistent challenge in the art world, the challenge being that women artists, particularly those with disability, face significant

barriers to market access despite their talent and creativity.

Atkin said the exhibition would feature paintings, photography, sculpture, textiles, and mixed media, with each artwork displayed alongside artist statements that share personal stories.

“All works will be available for purchase, giving the artists opportunities to generate income and professional recognition,” Atkin said.

“This exhibition powerfully amplifies the voices of women with disability by showcasing their artistic talents as professional contributors and creating direct economic opportunities.”

The State Government has awarded more than $290,000

to 11 organisations across NSW to celebrate women’s achievements.

Member for Gosford Liesl

Tesch said Women’s Week Grants had been running since 2018 to fund innovative events that empowered women and girls to participate in their

communities, to advance gender equality in the longer term.

“This is just a slice of the fantastic work that the people at Fairhaven do for themselves and the community and will be on show during Women’s Wee,”

Ms Tesch said.

“There are sure to be some powerful and poignant works on display as these artists raise their voices to be heard.”

It’s not only artistic endeavour that is being realised in the exhibition but also skills learned through professional development workshops on aspects such as pricing, marketing, and customer engagement.

“By presenting women with disability as creative leaders and skilled professionals in a

high-traffic retail space, we’re challenging intersectional stereotypes about disability and gender,” Atkin said.

“We anticipate reaching 700plus visitors across the week, demonstrating to the broader community that gender and disability doesn’t limit creativity, professional capability, or economic contribution.”

NSW Women’s Week, which runs from Monday, March 2, to International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8, is an annual showcase of the stories and remarkable achievements of women in NSW.

The NSW Government’s Women of the Year Awards at the International Convention Centre is the culmination of the week-long celebrations and will be held in Sydney on March 5.

Salsa Sundays are social at Fun Haus Factory

The Central Coast will come alive with music, movement, and community connection this Sunday, March 1, when the Fun Haus Factory introduces Salsa Social Sundays – a vibrant, family-friendly Latino music fiesta designed for all ages.

Switching from its regular evening format, the beloved Salsa Social is moving into the sunshine, transforming Sundays into a relaxed, multigenerational celebration where families, friends, and

neighbours can gather over food, live music, and dance.

The new daytime event invites audiences to slow down and savour the weekend the Latino way – sharing lunch, enjoying live rhythms, and reconnecting through culture and community.

Guests can feast on some of the Coast’s favourite burgers alongside hearty plates of empanadas while live music fills the space.

This event is supported by Central Coast Council and the event operates on a pay-whatyou-want basis, ensuring

everyone in the community can participate regardless of circumstance.

The aim is to create an open, welcoming space where

culture is shared freely and everyone feels invited.

At the heart of the celebration is live music from Richard Ortega and the Cuban Social Club, a six-piece ensemble led

Vibrant celebration of seniors

Central Coast Council’s Seniors Festival from March 2-15 is set to be a vibrant celebration of the region’s senior community and the invaluable contributions older residents make every day.

The theme for 2026, Live Life in Colour, reflects the diversity, creativity and energy that seniors bring to the Central Coast.

The program features a wide range of free or affordable events designed to inspire connection, wellbeing, learning and fun.

The festival will feature more than 80 events across the Central Coast

These will include activities and events across libraries, theatres, leisure centres and the Regional Gallery.

There will be more than 80 events for seniors across the region

services and activities designed to support wellbeing, social connection and lifelong learning — and even discover a new passion.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the Seniors Festival was a way of saying thank you and was an important celebration of the positive impact seniors has across the region.

“The Seniors Festival celebrates the incredible contributions of older Central Coast residents, as volunteers, mentors, carers, community leaders, neighbours, parents and grandparents,” he said.

by renowned musician Richard Ortega.

The group performs a rich journey through traditional Cuban sounds, from classical salsa and cha-cha-cha to boleros, son, guaracha, and changüí, bringing authentic rhythms and vibrant musical storytelling to the Central Coast.

Featuring trombone, congas, timpani, piano, baby bass, trumpet and vocals, Cuban Social Club delivers a dynamic live experience that invites audiences not just to listen, but to dance.

The event also marks the return of the Cuban Social Club to the Central Coast, creating a special moment for the region’s Latino community while warmly welcoming newcomers curious to experience Latin music and culture for the first time.

With ample seating, a relaxed atmosphere, and space for everyone – from little ones to grandparents – Salsa Social Sundays are designed as a joyful gathering where dancing is encouraged but never required.

On Thursday, March 5, a Seniors Expo will be held from 10am-1pm at Wyong Race Club.

A highlight of the festival each

Seniors can enjoy free health and fitness classes, dancing and entertainment, library programs, educational seminars and workshops, art activities, author talks, discounted show tickets and much more.

year, the Seniors Expo is an opportunity for seniors to connect with local services, businesses, groups and organisations, providing valuable information and resources from a range of stallholders.

Attendees can explore

“It invites them to connect, explore new activities, and embrace lifelong learning as they Live Life in Colour this March.

“I encourage all seniors to get involved and try something new.”

View the Seniors Festival 2026 program at centralcoast. nsw.gov.au/seniorsfestival

Business & Property

Free program to train and employ women

An investment of $545,000 from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation (NPCF) will help women across the Hunter and Central Coast access new training and employment opportunities thanks to an initiative from Habitat for Humanity Australia.

Over three years almost 50 participants in the Habitat Women program will receive free hands-on training in foundational construction skills, covering topics such as basic carpentry and plumbing, wall repairs, painting, tiling and general repairs and maintenance.

The first intake will begin in late February.

The investment builds on previous support provided by NPCF to help Habitat for Humanity Australia establish their Brush with Kindness

program in the region; the program rejuvenates crisis and transitional accommodation for people experiencing vulnerabilities.

According to 2024 ABS data, women comprise just 13.6% of the construction workforce, with even fewer engaged in trades.

CEO of Habitat for Humanity

Australia Penny Kaleta said the organisation was thrilled to partner with Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation to increase the reach of its Habitat Women program.

“For many participants this program is a turning point, providing exposure to new industries, strong networks and a clear pathway into the workforce,” she said.

“Together, we are building brighter futures – one woman, one community at a time.”

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation spokesperson Natasha Beyersdorf said the Foundation was thrilled to continue working with Habitat for Humanity Australia, after granting $120,000 to the organisation in 2024 to roll out Brush with Kindness across Newcastle and the Central Coast.

“Brush with Kindness continues to deliver muchneeded upgrades to transitional accommodation and following its success we are proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity Australia again to expand their Habitat Women program,” Ms Beyersdorf said.

“This initiative opens doors for women to develop practical skills, build confidence and access meaningful employment opportunities across indemand industries.”

For more information go to habitat.org.au

Have your say on the Central Coast’s future

Three major draft strategies are now open for public feedback:

- Economic Development Strategy

- Destination Management Plan

- Events Strategy

Together, these strategies set a long term vision to create more local jobs, support businesses and enhance the Central Coast as a great place to live, work and visit.

Have your say and help shape our region’s next chapter.

Scan the QR code or Visit yourvoiceourcoast.com

14:

Source: NSW Spatial Viewer/PM Anderson Consulting

Housing subdivision for Lisarow

Killcare is a hidden gem

Killcare has ranked at number two on a new list of Australia’s top 10 hidden gem destinations.

ROLLiN analysed hundreds of regional towns and coastal locations using a hidden gem scoring system to reveal the Australian spots still flying under the radar and genuinely worth the trip.

Killcare scored 73.8/100 to land in second place. The area has only 10 YouTube

videos, under 3,000 Instagram posts, and 236 TikToks, giving it a Social Media Hiddenness Score of 70.5 out of 100, the report says.

Killcare also ranks second for things to see and places to stay (88.2/100), offering 92 things to do and 43 highly-rated places to stay.

“Though it is slightly less hidden than others, visitors can enjoy its beaches, coastal walks, and local cafes,” the report says.

“Furthermore, while Killcare can offer travellers scenic beaches and coastal walks, the suburb is just 88 minutes from Sydney.

“This offers visitors the perfect spot to unwind while still having access to the dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions of a major city.” Coming in at number one was Dangar Island on the Hawkesbury River.

Five hollow bearing trees have been found within the proposed development footprint and are being

The removal of hollowbearing trees will be offset with the installation of nest boxes – for every hollow removed, two nest boxes will be installed. Mitigation measures are proposed to minimise potential impacts to the site’s biodiversity values, to be implemented in the pre-construction, construction and postconstruction phases.

The estimated development cost is $5,475,000.

Dr Gordon Reid MP

“The Hive” Erina Fair, 620-658 Terrigal Drive, Erina 2250 (02) 4365 5322

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

Ngaimpe Aboriginal Corporation has submitted plans to Central Coast Council for approval to double its capacity for rehabilitation services at The Glen for Men.

The Glen, at 50 Church Rd, Tuggerah, operates on Crown land under a long-term lease to provide a community centre, transitional group home and drug and alcohol rehabilitation service.

Expansion plans at The Glen for Men

The Glen for Men has grown to now be a 36-bed facility (the largest Aboriginal Community Controlled Facility in NSW) and provides opportunities for drug and alcohol rehabilitation for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal men from all over NSW and Australia.

Regional Land M

It was established in 1994 by the Ngaimpe Aboriginal Corporation and provides 20 beds in the residential treatment program and 16 beds in the transition program. With the success of the program, the need has continued to grow putting pressure on the buildings and associated infrastructure.

To meet this need, The Glen has relied on small grants, corporate donations and using clients to complete maintenance/capital works.

Demand for The Glen Group’s service still outweighs its ability to supply, which is supported by recent Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that show the rate of Aboriginal people receiving treatment for drug and alcohol use in Australia has increased again.

Median Sale Price

clients, increasing capacity by four with a total of 24 beds for clients; provide an ongoing transition program for up to 16 clients; an additional 12 beds in the transition program; an additional 20 affordable housing places in the transitional housing village; and increase onsite training programs with a purpose-built education centre.

The Central Coast has ranked fourth on a list of the country’s top 10 most expensive regional markets in the latest HIACotality Residential Land Report.

The report sees regional markets ranked by median residential lot prices over the September 2025 quarter.

The Central Coast ranked fourth with a median land price of $623,518.

The HIA-Cotality Residential Land Report provides updated information on sales activity in 52 housing markets across Australia, including the six state capital cities.

“Since 2000, residential land prices have increased by more than 500%,” HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon said.

“Over the same period, construction costs and the price of skilled labour increased by around 150%.

“The long-run escalation in

Expansion plans include an additional 20 beds in the transitional housing village and another 16 beds for the program, to add to the existing 36 beds, which will achieve a total program capacity of 72 beds for clients.

Early works have been underway, renovating existing buildings under Exempt Development provisions to fit in with the site masterplan.

The tables below rank the ten most expensive and the ten least expensive regional markets by median residential lot prices over the September quarter 2025.

The median lot price in Australia’s regions ticked down to $295,160, down by 2.1 per cent in the be up by just 3.2 per cent on a year earlier. This is much more modest than the price increases in as has been the trend over the last couple of years, expanding the gap between regional and capital Nonetheless, regional prices are still around their own record highs.

If approved, the works will be split into two stages, to enable construction works to be completed while The Glen for Men Rehabilitation Centre remains operating and to minimise construction impacts on surrounding residents and neighbours.

This will provide an ongoing residential drug and alcohol treatment program for up to 20

The Gold Coast recorded by far the highest lot price among the regions at $751,000, followed distantly Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula ($700,000), Queensland’s Sunshine Coast ($634,500) and New Central Coast ($623,520). Queensland secured four of the top 10 most expensive regions, with New Wales taking out five and Victoria claiming just the one.

More detail is in DA/2011/2025 on the DA Tracker on Council’s website.

The regions’ most affordable median lot price was recorded in the Western Australia - Wheatbelt followed by South Australia - Outback ($115,000) and Tasmania’s West and North West ($136,000).

Land prices continue to soar

Australia took three of the top 10 places, foll owed by two each in Western Australia and Queensland each of New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania

housing shortfall and affordability challenges.

“The cost to build a house rose another 1% in the December quarter, pushing building costs more than 30% higher over the past five years,” he said.

“High building costs are contributing to inflation.

“The cost of new dwellings purchased by owner-occupiers, which has the largest weight in the CPI calculation, was up 3% in the December CPI, adding to renewed cost of living pressures.”

“Without a healthy pipeline of shovel-ready land across Australia’s capitals and regions, along with all the associated infrastructure, fairly funded, the return of demand for new housing will be diverted into the established housing market, further driving up prices and worsening the affordability crisis,” he said. Land prices do not reflect the cost of dirt; they reflect the cost of making land ready for housing.

housing costs has been driven overwhelmingly by land.

“The way governments release, service and tax land has embedded the cost of infrastructure, delays and planning decisions into land prices.

Median Lot Size

“Those costs are paid upfront, capitalised into land values and ultimately borne by new homebuyers.

“The latest report shows the median price of residential land rose again in the September quarter, reaching a new record

high nationally, up more than 10% over the year and growing at around three times the pace of consumer price inflation.”

Cotality Research Director Tim Lawless said persistent growth in construction costs was another factor in Australia’s

“With land costs and building costs continuing to trend higher, along with high contribution charges and taxes, project feasibility remain a core challenge for builders and developers in delivering desperately needed housing supply.”

Before a new lot can be sold, land must be rezoned, serviced, and connected to infrastructure.

This includes roads, water, sewerage, drainage, electricity, open space, and community facilities.

*The Central Coast in New South Wales and the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria are considered Greater Capital City regions. For the purposes of this section of the Report, they are considered as they have different market characte ristics to Sydney and Melbourne. They are however included calculations for the Greater Capital City areas and not regional areas.

Mr Reardon said the shortage of shovel-ready land was central to solving the affordability challenge.

Increasingly, the cost of this infrastructure is not funded from general government revenue but instead charged directly to new housing through a complex web of taxes, fees, levies, and contributions.

Median lot sizes have increased across the regions, like the capitals, reaching 627 square metres, cent in the latest quarter to be 3.9 per cent up on a year earlier. This is the largest median lot size

The region with the largest median lot sizes in the latest quarter was Central Queensland at 780 followed by New South Wales’s Murray (777 square metres) and Western Australia - Outback (South) square metres). Queensland took out four o f the top 10 positions, followed by New South Wales Western Australia, Tasmania and Victoria with one each.

The smallest median lot size over the quarter was seen in Victoria’s Geelong (391 square metres), Queensland’s Ipswich (448 square metres) and New South Wales’s Illawarra (450 square metres). three of the top 10 positions, while N ew South Wales took four, Queensland took two and South one

If you’ve ever watched a cat completely lose its composure over a leafy green sprig, you’ll understand the magic of catnip.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is easy to grow in Australia, wonderfully hardy, and a delight for both gardeners and their feline companions.

Even better, it thrives in our varied climate with very little fuss.

Catnip belongs to the mint family, which explains both its vigorous growth and its square stems and soft, grey-green leaves.

It produces small, pale lavender to white flowers that bees absolutely adore.

While your cat may treat it like a party plant, it’s actually a pretty, useful addition to the herb patch.

Down in the Garden Grow Your Own Cat Happiness: Catnip

by CHERALYN DARCEY

www.cheralyndarcey.com

GROWING CATNIP

Catnip grows well across most parts of Australia, from cool temperate regions to warm coastal areas.

In very humid tropical climates it may struggle a little with fungal issues, but good airflow and well-drained soil make a big difference.

Choose a sunny spot. Catnip loves full sun, though it will tolerate light afternoon shade in hotter regions.

Well-draining soil is essential. If your soil is heavy clay, improve it with compost and coarse sand or grow catnip in pots instead.

Container growing is often the smartest choice if you have an enthusiastic cat, as they can flatten young plants in their excitement.

You can grow catnip from

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

seed, which germinates easily in spring and autumn.

Lightly press seeds into the soil surface and keep them moist until they sprout, usually within 7 to 14 days.

Once established, catnip is drought tolerant and doesn’t require heavy feeding.

In fact, too much fertiliser can reduce the concentration of the aromatic oils that cats love.

Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it becoming leggy.

Pinching out the tips before flowering can also increase leaf production.

If you allow it to flower, bees

and other pollinators will thank you.

Be aware that catnip can self-seed freely in ideal conditions.

Deadhead spent flowers if you want to control its spread.

HOW CATNIP AFFECTS CATS

The active compound in catnip is nepetalactone, found in the leaves and stems.

When cats smell it, the scent binds to receptors in their noses and stimulates sensory neurons linked to the brain.

The result can be rolling,

While your cat may treat it like a party plant, it’s actually a pretty, useful addition to the herb patch.

rubbing, purring, zooming, or blissful relaxation.

Not all cats respond.

Sensitivity to catnip is hereditary, and about 30 to 40 percent of cats show little or no reaction.

Kittens under three months also tend not to respond.

The effects usually last around 10 to 15 minutes before your cat temporarily loses interest.

It’s not addictive and is considered safe when used in moderation.

HOW TO USE

HOMEGROWN CATNIP

Fresh catnip can be offered as cut sprigs placed on the floor or rubbed onto scratching posts and bedding.

You can also dry the leaves by hanging small bunches

upside down in a cool, dark place.

Once crisp, crumble and store them in an airtight container.

Dried catnip can be sewn into homemade toys or sprinkled inside existing ones to refresh them.

A small pinch is enough. You can also stuff it into cardboard tubes or paper bags for enrichment play.

If your cat eats some of the leaves, that’s perfectly fine.

In fact, when ingested rather than smelled, catnip often has a mild calming effect.

Growing catnip isn’t just about indulging your pet.

It’s about adding another layer of connection between your garden and your home.

A simple herb, a happy cat, and a patch of sunshine can turn an ordinary afternoon into something quietly joyful.

Book Review by Julie Chessman

What We Can Know

By Ian McEwan

What We Can Know is the 18th novel by author Ian McEwan and you know you will be in great hands.

A quest, a literary thriller, and a love story, What We Can Know is a masterpiece that reclaims the present from our sense of looming catastrophe and imagines a future world where all is not lost.

Ian McEwan returns with one of his most ambitious works to date, a novel that blends dystopian speculation, literary mystery, love story, and philosophical inquiry into a richly layered narrative. There is such a strong tension in the story, within the narrator Thomas, between the present and past, as someone who spends nearly

all of his time dreaming of a world lost and fearing that it will soon be forgotten.

From 2014 to the year 2119, in a world submerged by rising seas, What We Can Know asks profound questions about who we are and where we are going.

The story is a brilliant meditation on how we treat history, how we glorify certain eras and idolise their people, obsessing over times we never lived through, often wishing we had.

It is a dystopia that creeps in rather than explodes, and it is even more powerful because of that restraint.

I was constantly surprised, propelled forward by a need to know and fearful that I might never find out or trust what I discovered; in ways this reminded me a bit of Trust by Hernan Diaz McEwan’s prose is precise, economical, and deeply observant, balancing psychological depth.

Julie Chessman

As a novel, Wuthering Heights is a scandalous gothic melodrama, and so it should be no surprise that the 2026 film version is the same.

Outlandish and unhinged in some places, delicate, and heart-wrenching in others, this new version of Wuthering Heights is manic at times but definitely entertaining.

Kathy and Heathcliff meet as children in a lonely farmhouse and grow up to be tormented souls.

Australian actors Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi are your guides through the black granite wasteland that dominates the film, until Kathy winds up married to a rich man in a lush bordello of a mansion and their misery really begins.

FILM REVIEW

The story has been incredibly popular since Emily Bronte published it in 1847, leading to fervid academic interpretation and later, to 35 film and television versions, of which this is one of the most surreal.

Wuthering Heights is still an enigma; why Kathy and

By Avery Navarro

Heathcliff get themselves into such a terrible mess is still open to opinion.

Screenwriter and director Emerald Fennell is just happy to recreate the excitement she felt when she read the book as a teenager, and so there is a lively adolescent delirium to the film which makes it captivating.

Robbie and Elordi do have their work cut out helping you suspend disbelief, but their ability to negotiate a director’s vision which borders sometimes on the bizarre energises the picture at every turn.

It is a vivid performance by television actor Martin Clunes, as Kathy’s dissolute father, that anchors the drama and steals the film.

Avery Navarro

More than 200 new graduate nurses, midwives and doctors will start work across the Central Coast this year, providing a significant boost to the growing region’s health services.

A total of 138 new nurses and midwives will gain experience in a variety of clinical settings, including emergency departments, acute services, maternity, mental health, and a range of other specialities across the Central Coast Local Health District.

They are among more than 3,200 graduate nurses and midwives who will commence work across the NSW public health system this year in multidisciplinary teams, alongside experienced staff who will support them to gain the skills and knowledge required to care for the state’s diverse communities.

They join the 69 new graduate intern doctors who are now calling the Central Coast home, having joined the Local Health District in recent weeks.

Health & Education Major boost to our health services

Having completed their orientation, the junior doctors are already providing care to local patients and much needed support to the region’s hardworking health staff.

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to gain general registration.

The interns will work with and learn from NSW Health’s

experienced and highly skilled medical staff in one of the world’s best health systems.

The new doctors starting their internship will be entering a training program with networked hospitals throughout the state, providing formal and on-the-job training.

They receive two-year contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience.

Defib donation gives peace of mind

Community Bank East Gosford and Districts has donated a defibrillator machine (AED) to The Entrance District Sport and Community Centre (EDSACC) Croquet Club.

CEO Michael Bell said more than 500 Community Bankfunded, life-saving AEDs have now been donated around Australia.

“When families and organisations choose to bank locally, they’re not just customers – they’re partners in building a stronger Central Coast region, and that

ultimately allows our Community Bank to be able to contribute funds to support initiatives like this,” he said.

“If your community group or workplace is yet to install an AED, consider applying for funding via our website to have one installed.”

President of EDSACC Croquet Club President Craig Fraser said the club was grateful for the donation of the defibrillator.

“As a club where members and visitors of all ages come together to enjoy croquet, having this life-saving equipment on-site gives us

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invaluable peace of mind,” he said.

“It means we can respond immediately in a cardiac emergency, potentially saving a life while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

“This equipment doesn’t just protect our members during games and social events – it also makes our club a safer place for the entire local community.

“We truly appreciate Bendigo Bank’s commitment to supporting community safety and wellbeing on the Central Coast.”

The interns also rotate across different specialties during the intern year, including surgery, medicine and emergency medicine.

“I want to thank each and every one of these graduate nurses and midwives for choosing to work here in Australia’s largest health system, where they will have the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the very best,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.

“These new nurses and midwives will provide a welcome boost to the NSW Health workforce, delivering essential support to patients, their families and carers.

“The Minns Government is recruiting more nurses, doctors, paramedics, and allied health professionals, rebuilding the health workforce to deliver better patient outcomes.”

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David

Harris welcomed the new graduate nurses, midwives and doctors to the Central Coast.

“Our growing population is putting increasing pressure on our region’s health services and this influx of healthcare professionals will go a long way to ensuring Central Coast patients continue to receive the care they need and our frontline staff are supported,” he said.

“This boost to our local health workforce builds on the successful recruitment efforts, especially in specialist maternity staff at Gosford Hospital in the past year and the recently completed $200M redevelopment of Wyong Hospital.”

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley, Member for The Entrance David Mehan and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch also welcomed the significant addition to the Central Coast Local Health District’s workforce.

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APPEARANCES • Criminal Law • AVO Matters • Traffic Matters • Drink Driving

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Learning about digital safety

More than 1,000 students from Gosford High School, Lisarow High School and Avondale School participated in Optus Digital Thumbprint workshops recently, learning about cyberbullying, Generative AI, protecting their personal information online and practising safe online behaviours.

They learnt how to use Generative AI tools to enhance their creativity, problemsolving, and critical thinking as well as hearing about the potentially negative uses of the technology.

Investing in the future of Central Coast students’ digital safety and wellbeing is at the forefront of Optus’ Digital Thumbprint program.

In February 2026, the program will deliver digital safety workshops to more than 2,100 primary and secondary students across four schools on the Central Coast.

Optus Local General Manager Glenn Hamilton said the collaboration between parents, educators and the community was essential to help support young people’s digital wellbeing, especially in the complex digital environment.

“Our Digital Thumbprint Program supports young people to achieve, thrive and belong in today’s digital world by encouraging positive online behaviour around privacy, security and responsible technology use,” he said.

“We’ve seen incredible outcomes from the program with the majority of students

feeling more empowered after the sessions.

“We want to ensure kids feel well-prepared and confident when interacting in the online world so they can have more positive online experiences.”

Since 2013, the Optus Digital Thumbprint program has educated more than 725,000 primary and secondary students across Australia on essential digital safety topics such as cyberbullying and respectful relationships, protecting their personal information, and recognising scams.

The program is endorsed by the Office of the eSafety Commissioner as a Trusted eSafety Provider program.

Visit For more information go to www.digitalthumbprint. com.au

Subsidy boost for health workers undertaking study

Health services on the Central Coast are being given a critical boost under a scheme that subsidises study for health workers.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the State Government was committed to enhancing recruitment and retention of health workers through the study subsidies.

“We want more people to study across the health sector so that’s why we are removing financial barriers for students wanting to make healthcare their career,” Ms Tesch said.

In return for a five-year commitment to work for NSW Health, students can apply to receive up to $12,000 through the Tertiary Study Subsidy program to help them on their journey.

With almost 8,000 students already benefiting from the program, a new round of applications has opened for another 4,000 studentsto receive the subsidies.

“What better place than the Central Coast to choose to make a career in healthcare, with our state-of-the-art Gosford Hospital and associated facilities,” Ms Tesch said.

“This is in stark contrast to the previous Coalition Government which planned to sack 1,100 nurses and imposed an unfair wages cap on our health workers, despite the growing need for frontline health workers across the Gosford region.”

Ms Tesch said the Tertiary Health Study Subsidy was one way the Government was

building an engaged, capable and supported workforce, along with abolishing the wages cap and delivering the largest wage increase to healthcare workers in a decade, implementing safe staffing levels in emergency departments, saving 1,112 nurses whom she said the Liberal Government planned to sack and investing $274M to deliver an additional 250 healthcare workers at upgraded hospitals left with inadequate staff by the previous government.

For details on how to apply, including the full list of eligible workforce groups and locations, visit the NSW Health website.

Central Coast is one of NSW’s fittest cities

The Central Coast is NSW’s seventh fittest city, according to new research from Net World Sports, an online sports equipment shop.

While the nation is moving more, not every city is keeping pace, so Net World Sports set out to find the fittest and the most unfit cities.

New World Sports built a comprehensive index ranking Australia’s 50 largest cities using a wide range of measures: health outcomes; fitness behaviours; access to gyms and recreation spaces; and the broader lifestyle and environmental factors that either support or sabotage healthy choices.

The result is a revealing snapshot of fitness across the country, spotlighting the cities where healthy living is woven into daily life and exposing the places where environment, access and culture make staying active a much harder task.

By analysing the latest health data, activity levels, search trends and environmental factors, the study uncovers surprising results and stark differences between regions.

The research showed physical activity levels on the Central Coast were encouraging, with more than three-quarters of residents meeting exercise guidelines

(77.4%) and 61.3% consuming sufficient fruits and vegetables.

score of 49.7/100, while sport participation sat at 69% and diet and exercise interest is 39.5%.

The Central Coast also scored 17.1/100 for environmental enablers, with access to gyms, outdoor spaces, and run clubs supporting active living.

“You don’t need a fancy gym or a big city to stay active; find little ways to move every day,” Net World Sports CEO Alex Loven said.

Participation in sport and recreational activity sat at 69%, while community interest in diet and exercise was solid at 39.5%.

heart disease and 1.6% with lung conditions.

However, 9.6% of residents live with long-term health conditions including 2.4% with

Informal fitness engagement was high, reflected in a run clubs and informal fitness

“Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk your dog, do a stretch session in the morning or start easy home workouts.

“With the right gear, you can build a consistent routine and keep your body moving, no matter where you live.”

EYE HEALTH

Clear sight at school gives a real learning boost

With students back in classrooms across the Central Coast, parents are busy ticking off uniforms, stationery and lunch boxes.

One important check often overlooked is a child’s eyesight, yet clear vision plays a major role in learning, confidence and classroom engagement.

Optometrists say many children don’t realise they’re struggling to see the board, read comfortably or focus for long periods.

Vision changes can happen gradually, and children often assume that what they see is “normal”.

A simple eye test before or early in the school year can make a meaningful difference.

Myopia, or shortsightedness, is increasingly common in school-aged children.

It affects distance vision, making it harder to see the whiteboard, follow sports instructions or recognise facial expressions from across the classroom.

Close-up work like reading usually remains clear, which means the problem can go unnoticed for some time.

The shift toward digital learning, combined with more screen use at home, has made regular vision checks even more important.

While screens are now part of everyday education, experts say balance is key.

Time outdoors, good lighting and regular breaks all support healthy visual development.

Professor Fiona Stapleton from UNSW Sydney’s School of Optometry and Vision Science encourages parents to see eye checks as part of a child’s back-to-school routine.

“Clear vision supports learning, attention and confidence,” she said.

“A comprehensive eye examination around the ages of four to five, or earlier if there’s a family history of vision issues, helps ensure children are well prepared for the classroom.”

Common signs a child may need an eye test include squinting, headaches, eye fatigue, rubbing eyes, sitting too close to screens or books, or losing concentration during reading tasks.

If a vision issue is detected early, management options are straightforward and effective. These may include glasses, specialised lenses designed to slow changes in vision, or simple lifestyle adjustments such as spending more time outdoors.

Parents are also encouraged to support healthy eye habits during the school year. The “20-20-20+2” rule is a useful guide: every 20 minutes of screen time, take a 20-second break to look into the distance, and aim for at least two hours of outdoor play each day.

With a clear view of the board, their books and the world around them, children are better placed to start the school year focused, confident and ready to learn.

A quick eye check now can help set them up for a productive and positive year ahead.

drøm’s cancer awareness campaign

After being diagnosed with prostate cancer, the founder of the Central Coast surf and streetwear brand drøm has launched a cancer awareness initiative inspired by his personal cancer journey.

Gary Berman created the campaign and fundraising T-Shirt to encourage early health checks for everyone.

With the slogan ‘no symptoms, no excuses, get checked’, the initiative aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote early detection.

The online brand, which started with a store in Woy Woy and now operates stalls on the local markets circuit,celebrated its 10th anniversary last year.

“After COVID, we closed the shopfront down and took the brand on the road, and then, it happened,” Mr Berman said.

When he was 63, routine blood tests recommended by his doctor showed an elevated indicator.

“With the prostate, the PSA is an important number and that went up a bit,” he said.

Over the next year, subsequent follow-up tests led to referrals to specialists and ultimately a diagnosis of prostate cancer.

“I wasn’t too concerned initially, so I delayed the second test, but those results were too high, so my doctor sent me to a specialist,” he said.

Having received the diagnosis last October, Mr Berman, now 65, is undergoing treatment.

“You have to make the decision of what sort of treatment you’re going to have when you are diagnosed,” he said.

By sharing his story, he aims to encourage everyone in the

community to get the necessary reproductive cancer tests.

“It’s not just men that should be getting tested because a lot of women do not have the checks they’re supposed to either,” he said.

But he does admit that many men, when they hear the word prostate, are apprehensive.

Mr Berman wants to alleviate the fears that prevent testing, diagnosis, and timely treatment when necessary, because he says they can save lives.

“The test now is only a blood

test, not the old style examination that scared men,” he said.

Initially unsure how to share the news, he decided to use his brand, which has a significant following, to share the important message and settled on a T-shirt design featuring the catchy slogan.

“It’s very hard to talk about, and I wasn’t telling anyone as the mental part is probably as tough as the diagnosis,” he said.

The slogan of ‘no symptoms, no excuses, get checked’ speaks not only to his story but also to the perception that older men in their 70s are the ones who have this cancer, when the reality is that age is not the only factor.

As part of the campaign, 20% of the proceeds from every drøm Cancer Awareness Tee sold is donated to cancer research and support charities, helping fund vital research and patient services across Australia for reproductive system cancers.

Order a T-shirt at drom.com. au/products/tee-cancerawareness

Ivona Rose

Walk to raise money for multiple myeloma cure

Myeloma Australia is set to conduct its annual My Greatest Walk with more than 30 groups across Australia holding events, including the Central Coast on Sunday March 29 at 8am from SEA Scout Hall in Masons Pde, Gosford.

My Greatest Walk is a grassroots campaign where individuals and families affected by myeloma and their networks are invited to come together to raise further funds for research, education and awareness to support the 22,000 Australians living with myeloma.

Myeloma is a specific form of cancer of the plasma cells, an incurable disease, and the Myeloma Impact Fund is a bold, long-term commitment to making a cure for myeloma a reality in Australia. With a goal of raising $10M per year for 10 years, the fund will accelerate research, strengthen advocacy for equitable access to worldclass treatments, expand education for patients and health professionals, and enhance supportive care –ensuring every Australian living

with myeloma has access to the best possible treatment, information and quality of life, no matter where they live.

Exercise has also been found to be important in maximising the quality of life as it aids strengthening bones, reduces treatment related muscle loss and improves mobility and balance.

Hugh Parlane of Woy Woy was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in late 2020.

At first, it was described as “smouldering” myeloma, which meant it did not need

treatment straight away and was carefully monitored by his doctors, but by early 2025, it became active and required treatment.

Around the same time, doctors discovered Mr Parlane had a heart condition that needed surgery and it was decided that the heart surgery would be done first, before starting treatment for the Multiple myeloma.

He underwent open-heart surgery in July 2025.

Fortunately, Mr Parlane had been part of a Heart Foundation

walking group on the Central Coast for more than five years and his healthy lifestyle and regular exercise helped him recover very well from the surgery.

Treatment for the multiple myeloma began in October 2025 and he was fortunate to be selected for a clinical trial at Gosford Hospital.

The trial involved at least seven treatment cycles, with each cycle lasting 28 days. He is now in cycle five, and his regular blood tests are showing very encouraging results.

Last year more than 90 walkers in My Greatest Walk benefited greatly from the exercise and helped gain funds for important research.

Participants in My Greatest Walk can walk as little or as much as they like.

To reserve a place please go to shop.myeloma.org.au or email cath.bowley@myeloma. org.au

The registration fee is $30; book early to secure a T-shirt.

After the event, a barbecue will be held and participants are asked to bring a fold-up chair.

Local successes and a milestone birthday

It has been a successful week for a host of Wyong trainers, chalking up winners across the metropolitan and provincial circuit.

At his 50th start, Stylebender delivered his seventh career victory last Wednesday, February 18, in a Benchmark 72 at Warwick Farm Racecourse, scoring in impressive fashion for trainer Kristen Buchanan.

Continuing his remarkable consistency, the tough eightyear-old stayer was ridden by Mollie Fitzgerald.

“He doesn’t look like slowing down – he thinks he’s a threeyear-old and behaves like a two-year-old,” an elated Buchanan said.

Stylebender is set to return to Warwick Farm next week, with connections hoping to go backto-back.

In the final event of the day, there was a boil over as Sneaky Sofia ($18) claimed her fourth win from 14 starts for trainer Damien Lane, rounding out a memorable afternoon for the local training ranks.

Adding to the feel-good atmosphere, the Club paid tribute to long-serving staff member Fred Waddell, who celebrated his 90th birthday.

SPORTS BRIEF

Pre season gala

The Football Development League will hold two junior football gala days in March in response to the shortage of pitches and playing opportunities for young players.

“Our goal is to help plug the gap and keep junior athletes active during the off-season,” a spokesperson said.

Paying over $10, the win was a well-earned reward for connections.

Saturday, February 21, saw the spotlight firmly on the home

The momentum rolled on to Thursday, February 19, when Wayne Seelin’s Monty Be Quick led throughout to claim a Benchmark 64 at Hawkesbury Race Club, with Mitchell Stapleford in the saddle.

track at Wyong Race Club, with local trainers landing two winners.

Rodney Bailey prepared The Netball Queen to justify her short $1.50 quote in Race 3, registering her maiden victory at start four.

Fred was presented with a cake trackside, and the entire Wyong Race Club family wishes him the happiest of birthdays and many more days at the races.

Racing continues at Wyong this Thursday, February 26, with an eight-race card getting underway at 1.35pm.

For further details head to wyongraceclub.com.au

Everglades women take the winner’s purse

Bateau Bay Bowls hosted another successful bowls tournament when the annual women’s triples at The Bay Tournament was held on Monday, February 16, at Bateau Bay Bowling Club.

With 26 teams of women from the north to the south of the Coast competing for the winner’s purse, it was hot bowls right from the very start.

Teams played three games of 13 ends per game over the day with lunch provided after the first two games.

Winners would be decided on wins + margins + ends for the first four places.

There were only six teams who had won their first two games at the lunch break and it was only a few shots that separated them all, going into the last game.

To win the purse would require teams to not only win their last game, but to also ensure their winning margin carried them into the winning circle.

After the final bowl was bowled the women’s team from Everglades Country Club

with their three wins and best margin secured first place and stepped up to take home the very generous first prize envelope.

The winning Everglades team included Vicki Redrup, Jeannine Vigar and Karen Eagleson.

Not to be out done, the Bateau Bay women managed to dominate second, third and fourth places and also won the lucky team draw.

Creightons Funerals Community Liaison Consultant Erin Harris did the presentations along with Bateau Bay Bowls President Karen McKay.

Mariners seventh Heaven tantalisingly close

The number seven had a curious way of following the Central Coast Mariners across a weekend of contrasting fortunes – two home games, two competitions, and two sides sitting just outside the finals picture.

On Friday evening, February 20, it was the Mariners women who took centre stage at Polytec Stadium, facing ladder leaders Melbourne City in a match that promised plenty and delivered moments, if not the result.

City showed why they sit near the summit, striking early in the second half before adding two more goals in a clinical burst that tested the Mariners’ defensive resolve.

To their credit, the home side refused to fold.

Izzy Gomez pulled one back with a strong header, lifting the small local crowd and briefly hinting at a late charge, but

City’s experience told as they closed out a 3–1 win.

The defeat leaves the Mariners women seventh on the Ninja A-League ladder, close enough to the finals to touch, but far enough away to know every point now matters.

Two days later, on Sunday evening, February 22, the number seven resurfaced, this

time wrapped in noise, belief, and late drama.

The Mariners men, after a win, are now sitting seventh on the Isuzu UTE A-League ladder.

They hosted Western Sydney Wanderers, knowing a win could shift their momentum as much as their ladder position.

After conceding early, the hosts showed patience and

their old never-back-down attitude.

Ali Auglah levelled the scores early in the second half, only for the Wanderers to regain the lead.

What followed was the kind of finish Mariners fans have come to cherish.

Nathanael Blair brought the scores level again in the 77th minute, before James Donachie pounced in the 89th, turning a loose ball into a match-winner and sending Polytec Stadium into full voice.

Seven may be a good omen, with two teams sitting seventh, right on the edge of finals contention.

In football folklore, seven is often a lucky number, sometimes even a perfect one.

For the Mariners, seven currently represents unfinished business, both on and off the field, as supporters wait with some anticipation for the announcement from the

league’s ruling body, the APL, about who will have the honour of taking ownership of the club.

Maybe the club will attract a seven-digit sale price?

With the business end of the season fast approaching, fans will be hoping seventh place is not a destination, but a launch pad.

If the weekend showed anything, it’s that both Mariners sides fight, the self-belief, and the locals behind them to make the number seven mean something more before the season is done.

The Ninja A-League Women competition goes into a short recess to align with the FIFA women’s international window, which allows players to be released for national team duties without clubs being disadvantaged.

The Mariners men have a week to prepare for the coveted F-3 derby against the topranked Newcastle Jets on Saturday.

Shaping up to be the biggest off-season competition on the Coast, the event will be held at Adelaide Oval, Killarney Vale, with teams also travelling from Newcastle.

Under 6-Under 9 games will be played on Sunday, March 1, and Under 10-Under15 games on Sunday, March 22.

Register at www.football developmentleague.com.au

Bowls day fundraiser

The Family of League Central Coast will hold its annual bowls day fundraiser on Monday, March 23, at Ettalong Bowling Club. Registration will be taken from 8.30am. Join the Central Coast committee for an enjoyable day of bowls and footy banter on the greens.

Attendees are encouraged to wear their footy club’s supporters’ gear. For more information and registration details call 4341 1910 or 0414 631 010.

Daffodil Dip returns

The Terrigal Daffodil Dip returns on April 4, with locals of all ages invited to make a splash for Cancer Council NSW and show their support for Coasties impacted by cancer.

Set to take place at Terrigal Beach as part of the Terrigal Ocean Swim Classic, the Daffodil Dip sees participants don vintage yellow daffodil swim caps, creating a stunning “ocean of hope” while raising vital funds.

Swimmers can swim, paddle, wade, or simply dip into the water, making it an inclusive, family-friendly event.

Participants are encouraged to fundraise ahead of the event, get creative with their outfits, and share their experience to inspire friends, family, and colleagues to support the cause.

To register search ‘Daffodil Dip’ at doitforcancer.com.au

Stunning Olympic debut for aerial skier Abbey Willcox

Central Coast-born aerial skier Abbey Willcox made a stunning Olympic debut at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics 2026, as one of two Australians to make it through to the finals in women’s aerials.

Teammate and fourth-time Olympian Danielle Scott is taking home the silver medal for the event, scoring 102.17.

“These games have been so great for the Australian team; I’m so grateful to be a part of such a strong team,” Willcox said.

Heavy snow disrupted day 11 of the games, forcing several events to be postponed, including the qualifying rounds of the discipline.

Four Australian women competed in the qualifier, which was rescheduled to day 12, forcing the finals into a gruelling back-to-back

performance schedule on the same day.

“I’m super happy with how I performed, landing both my jumps in the Olympic final,” Willcox said.

She finished in 10th place, scoring 88.83 for Women’s Aerials and fourth with the Mixed Team Aerials event.

“Our aerial skiers Danielle Scott and Abbey Willcox sent it to space,” a spokesperson for the Australian Olympic team said.

Willcox’s road to the Olympics was hard-fought over 10 years, filled with all the challenges that elite sport can throw at athletes.

“It’s been a phenomenal experience at the Olympic Games; it’s taken so long to get here, but it’s all worth it,” she said.

The 29-year-old grew up at Somersby, attended Henry

Kendall High School and initially trained in gymnastics and sports acrobatics, which became the foundation for her aerial skiing skills.

Training began on water

ramps in Melbourne and Park City, Utah, with an international career debut in 2016 at the Europa Cup in Finland, where she officially commenced jumping on snow.

Amongst her accomplishments she placed third at the World Cup in Deer Valley, USA, in 2020.

But after crashing and injuring her leg during the last jump in the finals training World Cup event in Russia, her 2020/2021 season ended.

Requiring surgery, she returned home despite advancing to the finals in eighth place.

Willcox said she moved to Brisbane in 2022, following the completion of the purposebuilt Geoff Henke Olympic training centre, which enables athletes to have year-round training for skiing events.

“I also started a job at the Brisbane Broncos at the same time, so everything was moving to Brisbane for me,” she said.

Willcox returned to competition in 2023, placing

second in a Water Jump Grand Prix event held in Brisbane.

She took home a bronze medal in the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 FIS World Cups in Deer Valley, Utah.

At the 2025 World Championships in St Moritz, she achieved a personal best of 13th.

“Thank you to every single person who has come through my life and told me I could do it, believed in me and backed me through all the obstacles,” she said.

The question remains, will the lure of “the world’s biggest stage” draw her back to compete for Australia in France in 2030?

Ivona Rose

Pride on Ice comes to Erina

The first LGBTQIA+ ice hockey club in NSW will bring its flagship tournament to the Central Coast for the first time on February 27.

Recent data shows that 40% of Australians have watched or are considering watching Heated Rivalry, the global hit

series about queer love in professional ice hockey.

On Friday, February 27, that world will come to life at Erina Ice Arena, as Harbour Lights Ice Hockey Club hosts its fifth annual Pride on Ice tournament from 10.30am-5.45pm.

Harbour Lights has been making the promise real that

“hockey is for everyone” since 2021.

As NSW’s first LGBTQIA+ ice hockey club, it has built a community around a sport that hasn’t always been welcoming to them.

A lot of queer people loved hockey as kids and walked

away because they didn’t see themselves in it.

Clubs like Harbour Lights are changing that, one player at a time.

The timing is deliberate. Pride on Ice is run on the eve of Sydney’s Mardi Gras every year – and on Saturday, February 28, Harbour Lights

will march in the parade alongside fellow Australian LGBT+ Ice Hockey clubs Southern Lights (Melbourne) and Capital Riot (Canberra), plus friends and allies from across the globe.

Rainbow tape, bright jerseys and big energy will be on full display – but the Central Coast

will get to see it in action first before anyone else. Spectators will be more than welcome.

Pride on Ice 2026 will come to Erina Ice Arena on Friday, February 27.

For more information go to information: harbourlights icehockey.com