Central Coast Council will invest more than $1.3 billion over four years in capital projects, with $320 million being planned for this upcoming financial year after adopting the 10-year Community Strategic Plan (CSP), four-year Delivery Program, one-year Operational Plan, budget and resourcing strategies.Highlights include completing the Gosford Regional Library, building the Tuggerawong foreshore pathway and constructing a new Regional Animal Care facility at Mardi.Councillor priorities focus on renewing local roads, improving accessibility in sport and recreation, developing a masterplan for Warnervale Business Precinct, upgrading shared pathways, delivering Youth Strategy actions, implementing the Warnervale Airport masterplan and finalising Coastal Management Programs.Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna, said it was gratifying to produce a budget with input from elected representatives for the first time in four years.“These plans represent our community’s voice following the return of Councillors,” Mayor McKinna said.“Our Long-term Financial Plan shows Council’s commitment to maintaining financial sustainability, ensuring we stay in good shape.“Thank you to everyone who participated in our ‘Planning for the Future’ engagement sessions.

Central Coast Council has launched its Smart Water Meter Program, helping businesses monitor, conserve, and manage their water use more efficiently as part of Council’s Central Coast Water Security Plan. 100 of Council’s large, non-residential water customers have received a digital upgrade to their water meter and access to the MyWater digital customer dashboard—an online self-service tool providing water consumption data.Central Coast Council Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said the introduction of the water efficiency initiative includes both environmental and financial benefits.“Unlike traditional analogue meters, smart meters provide around-the-clock insights into water usage, enabling businesses to detect potential leaks early and develop water-saving strategies.

Local sporting groups, players and community members have been enjoying upgraded amenities at Buff Point and Halekulani Ovals, with new facilities in use since the start of the 2025 winter sports season.Proudly funded by $2.8 million from the NSW Government, the projects were delivered by Central Coast Council and have created modern, functional and accessible spaces to support local sport and community connection.Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said the NSW Government is pleased to support projects which encourage community members to enjoy the outdoors.“Outdoor facilities like the ones at Buff Point and Halekulani Oval encourage sports lovers, their families and friends to get outdoors for exercise and connection,” Minister Moriarty said. “It’s great to see the community embracing them for the winter sports season and I look forward to seeing that extend into the warmer months too.”Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the upgrades replaced ageing amenities buildings with facilities that meet current standards and better serve community needs.“The new buildings were designed in consultation with local sporting groups to ensure they reflect how our community uses these spaces – whether that’s for training, game day or simply gathering to enjoy local sport,” Ms Smith said.“Each facility prioritises functionality and inclusion, with features such as accessible toilets, accessible changerooms with showers, canteens, referee rooms and dedicated storage.”Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said the new facilities are already making a positive difference for local sport.“It’s great to see the new buildings at Buff Point and Halekulani Ovals in use this season,” Mayor McKinna said.“Having spent most of my life involved in sport, I know how important good facilities are for players, clubs and the wider community.“With clubs like the Budgewoi Bulldogs, Budgewoi Netball, Central Coast Cricket and Central Coast Gridiron based in the region, these upgrades give teams facilities they can be proud of, helping to keep players engaged in sport and attract bigger crowds to games.”Project detailsAt Buff Point Oval, a $1.58 million upgrade saw the demolition of a 44-year-old amenities building and construction of a new facility with two change rooms with individually partitioned showers, unisex and accessible toilets, a canteen, a canteen store, a referee room, a club room, two storage areas and improved walkways.

Thanks to the passion and commitment of Central Coast residents, soft plastics recycling is now available to every household across the region.Since the Curby Community Recycling Program launched in 2021, the Central Coast has led the way.

Central Coast Council together with the University of Newcastle have announced an exciting collaboration in the soon-to-be completed Gosford Regional Library.Located on the top floor of the new Library, the ‘MakerSpace’ will provide an inclusive space for students, community members and local businesses to learn, create and innovate using low and high-tech equipment, with the aim to foster social connection, develop technical skills, encourage experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration.Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the MakerSpace will be run by both Council and the University – ensuring it offers a service and opportunity for students and the broader community alike.“The new Gosford Regional Library is a modern and iconic building in the heart of the Gosford central business district, which will add to the growing capabilities and offerings of the city and the region as a whole,” Ms Smith said.“It is much more than a traditional library, and this collaboration with the University of Newcastle is indicative of what it can offer to other organisations and community groups, who want to utilise this extraordinary facility.”Under this agreement, the University of Newcastle will provide modern equipment as well as the expertise of its staff to work alongside Council staff to deliver creative opportunities for the community and university students.

Central Coast Council is calling for community and industry feedback to ensure the right land use and planning is in place to support future jobs and economic growth on the Central Coast.

Central Coast Council’s annual Harvest Festival, held over the June long weekend, has once again welcomed thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond.

Central Coast Council is calling on the community to provide feedback on the proposed Mannering Park Shared Pathway – a major infrastructure project that will deliver a safer, more accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists.The new pathway, linking Mannering Park, Kingfisher Shores and Chain Valley Bay will add to the region’s active transport network, improving connectivity to local schools, parks, services and recreational areas.Council Director Infrastructure Services, Boris Bolgoff, said the project represents a major step forward for active transport on the Central Coast.“During previous consultation, 93% of stakeholder feedback supported Option 1 — the foreshore route,” Mr Bolgoff said.“This investment will deliver safer and more sustainable active transport options for our community.”The project is fully funded, with $5.7 million from Council Developer Contributions and a $7 million grant from the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program.The concept design proposes a 2.9-kilometre pathway stretching from Griffith Street, Mannering Park to Tall Timbers Road, Kingfisher Shores.

Central Coast Council has been recognised for outstanding achievement across multiple areas of service and innovation, taking home one of the prestigious 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards in Sydney.Council was awarded top honour for Community Partnerships population over 150,000 - for the 'Every Day I like to play' children's book.‘Every Day I like to play’ is a children’s picture book, developed by Central Coast Council, to promote respectful relationships and break down gendered stereotypes of traditional roles within the home.Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the award reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful, community-focused outcomes.“The creation of this children’s book has been a wonderful initiative, as it explores positive and respectful relationships, encourages acceptance and celebrates kindness. “Being recognised with the NSW Local Government Excellence’s Community Partnerships Award for Council’s ‘Every Day I like to play’ children’s book is an honour and a testament to the passion and professionalism of our staff,” Mayor McKinna said.Council was also named as finalists for seven additional projects, showcasing the breadth of its work across the organisation:•    Schools Water Efficiency Program (Flow Forward) •    GLOW Women’s Initiative •    Customer Liaison Program •    Sustainable Futures Festival•    Bushfire Risk Analysis and 5-Year Risk Mitigation Program Plan•    Eco Advocates and Excellence Program•    EduCAT ProgramMayor McKinna said receiving the NSW Local Government Excellence Community Partnerships Award and being recognised as finalists in another seven categories significantly enhances Council’s reputation and provides state-wide recognition for the innovative programs being developed and delivered by Council.“Whether it’s focusing on families, empowering students to save water, supporting women in leadership, or transforming the way we support our customers—these programs are helping us build a more inclusive, sustainable and customer-focused Council.“Every one of these projects shows the innovative practices and positive impact on our community, achieved when we work together with purpose and care.”The Local Government Excellence Awards, hosted by Local Government Professionals Australia NSW, recognise outstanding efforts and achievements by councils across the state in delivering best practice, leadership and service to their communities.Image - left to right: Leah Haydon, Council Community Development Worker, LGEA award presenter and Belinda McRobie Council Section Manager Community Development  

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the draft Leisure and Aquatic Strategy 2025-2035, on public exhibition from Thursday 5 June to Thursday 3 July 2025.The draft strategy sets a clear, 10-year framework to guide the future of the Coast’s key leisure and aquatic services and facilities.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to have their say on a new draft Water and Sewer Concessions and Rebate Policy, now on public exhibition until 23 July 2025.The proposed policy aims to replace three existing policies from the former Gosford and Wyong Councils, creating a single, streamlined approach to providing financial assistance for customers facing hardship due to home dialysis, concealed leaks, or sewer connection costs.Council Director of Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said the draft policy demonstrates Council’s ongoing commitment to fairness, transparency, and putting customers first.“This draft policy is about making it easier for our community to access support when they need it most,” Mr Loader said.“We know life can throw up challenges, and this policy aims to respond with compassion, clarity and consistency.

Local community organisations are invited to apply for Central Coast Council’s 2025-26 Community Grants Program, with applications open from 1-30 June 2025.With $900,000 in total funding available, the program supports initiatives that foster community connections, activate public spaces and enhance the quality of life for Central Coast residents. Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the grants are an important way for Council to support and celebrate the Coast’s diverse community.“These programs bring people together through local events, projects and activities that align with our Community Strategic Plan,” Ms Smith said.“Last year, we funded a wide range of initiatives, from sporting programs, community outreach programs, writing festivals, mental health art exhibitions, equipment to enhance community organisations and family-friendly events – we look forward to seeing what this year brings.” The Community Grant Programs include:Community Development Grant Program – Supports projects that deliver strong community outcomes and improve the quality of life for Central Coast residents.Grants up to $20,000 per application.Annual funding pool of $300,000.Not open again until June 2026.Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program – Supports community events that activate local spaces and bring people together.•    Grants up to $20,000 per application.•    Annual funding pool of $300,000.•    Not open again until June 2026. Community Support Grant Program – Open year-round for small-scale activities, projects and events.•    Grants up to $5000 per application.•    Annual funding pool of $300,000. Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna highlighted the importance of grants in creating vibrant, inclusive communities.“These grants help activate our town centres, foreshore, lakes and open spaces, making them safe and welcoming for families, locals and visitors,” Mayor McKinna said.“If your organisation is working to deliver lasting benefits for our region, I strongly encourage you to apply.”Applications open 1 June 2025 and close 30 June 2025.Review the grant program guidelines and submit your application, search ‘grants’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Central Coast Council is serving up Taste of Wyong and Taste of Toukley – one day event celebrations of local food, culture and community this June.Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith, encourages locals and visitors to join the culinary adventure through Wyong and Toukley town centres.“With exclusive $5 tasting boxes from some of the area's best eateries, offering savoury bites to sweet treats, there’s something for every palate,” Ms Smith said.“Families can enjoy more than just great food – with live entertainment, roving performers, and free kids’ activities, including a petting zoo and craft activities.”Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said that Taste of Wyong and Taste of Toukley are opportunities to celebrate the cultural richness of our region.“We’re proud to support initiatives that energise our town centres,” Mayor McKinna said.“These events bring our community together, support our hardworking local businesses and shine a light on the incredible food and culture that make Wyong and Toukley so welcoming.”Taste of Wyong10am–1pm, Saturday 7 JuneFrank Ballance Memorial Park, WyongTaste of Toukley12–3pm, Saturday 21 JuneThe Village Green, ToukleyTaste of Wyong is part of Council’s annual Harvest Festival, celebrating the Coast’s rich heritage, seasonal produce and creative talent.See what’s on offer and find out more, search ’Taste of Wyong’ and ‘Taste of Toukley’ at LoveCentralCoast.comENDS

The celebrations are far from over for the Central Coast Mariners, with Central Coast Council set to host a public Civic Reception for the A-League Women’s team at Mingara Event Centre from 5.45pm on Friday 23 May!This free event is open to the entire community and offers fans the chance to come together and re-live the Mariners’ incredible A-League Women’s Championship win on Sunday 18 May.Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said Council is thrilled to be recognising the Mariners’ remarkable achievement and expects a fantastic turnout."I watched the live stream at the stadium on Sunday, surrounded by proud Coasties, and the atmosphere was electric!

Central Coast Council is inviting community feedback on proposed upgrades at Woy Woy Waste Management Facility, designed to improve long-term waste storage capacity and deliver more than $5 million in future annual cost savings.The planned works involve creating a flat earthen platform near the facility’s entrance.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the final stage of the Tuggerawong Shared Pathway – a key project supporting active transport and connectivity in the region.The concept design for Stage 5 of the pathway is now open for public comment and Council is encouraging residents, community groups and stakeholders to share their views.Central Coast Council Director Infrastructure Services, Boris Bolgoff said community feedback has played a vital role in shaping the project so far.“During previous consultation, 87% of stakeholders supported this foreshore route for Stage 5,” Mr Bolgoff said. “With full funding secured through Council developer contributions and an Australian Government funding commitment of $1.5 million, Council is pleased to be able to progress this $6.2 million project.”Stage 5 proposes a 1.45-kilometre shared path along the Tuggerah Lake foreshore, stretching from Palmer Street to Don Small Oval.Once completed, it will add to the scenic route around the lake, enhancing access to local schools, parks, shops and recreational areas.

The 2024-25 Central Coast beach patrol season officially concluded on Sunday 27 April, following a busy seven months that saw a significant rise in beach visitation and a strong safety response from Central Coast Council lifeguards and Surf Life Saving Central Coast (SLSCC) volunteers.Throughout the season, Council lifeguards provided weekday patrols at 15 beaches and The Grant McBride Baths, while SLSCC volunteers covered weekends and public holidays.

Central Coast Council Mayor and CEO met with NSW Government Ministers, officials and local MPs this morning and are pleased with the discussions. Council welcome’s the NSW Government’s announcement that immediate options around coastal erosion impact, will be explored in the coming days between government agencies and Council, that may include utilising the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s powers.NSW Government Statement:NSW Government Ministers, officials and local MPs met with the Mayor and CEO of Central Coast Council this morning to discuss coastal erosion in the area.It was agreed immediate options under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act would be explored further in the coming days between agencies and the Council.The NSW Government will continue to work with Council and the Federal Government to consider options for longer term solutions for coastal erosion. 

Central Coast Council is continuing its long-term investment in the creative future of local young people with the launch of the 2025 Creative Engineers Program.

The Central Coast community is invited to cheer on our Mariners Women’s team this Sunday via a FREE live screening at Industree Group Stadium, Gosford, as they compete for honours in The Ninja A-League Women’s Grand Final, against Melbourne Victory.The Grand Final, being hosted by Melbourne Victory, will be played in Melbourne at AAMI Park, with kick-off at 3.15pm this Sunday, 18 May 2025.