A local playspace is now open at Woy Woy’s Anderson Park reserve, providing a new safe and accessible place for local families and visitors to enjoy when visiting this popular foreshore area.This fully fenced new playspace features a multiply climbing unit with double slides and rope climbs, rocker, swing set, voice tubes, twista and balance trail and accessible pathway and softfall – whilst taking advantage of the shade provided by mature trees within the reserve.Council has been improving Woy Woy Town Centre for the community and have been in discussions with local businesses and residents on plans since October 2019.This playspace reflects the recently adopted Central Coast playspace strategy developed with community input and will complement the soon to be completed Woy Woy Wharf opposite this reserve and the periodic events held at this foreshore site (such as markets and other community activities).  A continuous shared pathway on the foreshore opposite the park provides a level surface to walk, scooter or ride the 1km to Lions Park which boasts a previously renewed playspace, BBQ and picnic facilities, fish cleaning station, boat ramps, jetties and public amenities.The completion of this new playspace has been timed to coincide with the unfortunate need to soon remove the ageing but much-loved playground unit 75m away at Pelican Park.  This removal is required due to a safety audit showing that the equipment no longer meets current Australian safety standards.  With the roots of the adjoining mature tree continuing to cause safety hazards, this site was not suitable for a new playspace to be built.  However, the site of the existing Pelican Park playground will remain as a public open space area, with the existing shaded picnic tables and fencing to remain and the area that currently has the play equipment being freshly turfed.

The Central Coast has its first Community Recycling Centre, with householders now able to drop off their problem wastes such as paints, oils, gas bottles, fluoro lights, smoke detectors and batteries for free at the Buttonderry Waste Management Facility in Jilliby, near Wyong.The Community Recycling Centre was established by Central Coast Council with the support of an Environmental Trust grant of $160,000 and work with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).The Centre at Jilliby expands on the popular travelling Chemical Cleanout Events, which are well supported in the region.Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart said the Jilliby Centre offered a permanent, free drop-off solution, complementary to existing services, that will make problem waste disposal easier for Central Coast residents.“Our community is passionate about closing the loop on waste and ensuring its safe and environmentally responsible disposal and this was evident when we consulted on our Waste Resource Management Strategy,” Mr Hart said.“We are proud that 87% of our community think it is very important to reduce the amount of waste that households generate and dispose, and we are also proud to be able to actively find opportunities that help our community do this.

It was great to see the 2021 Harvest Festival return to the Coast over the long weekend showcasing over 30 event hubs in the hinterland. Over 48,000 people attended across the weekend, an increase of 16,000 from the event in 2019, with most of the visitors being from all over Sydney. The economic impact for the region was $5,390,133! Whist the figures here are impressive, venues were still restricted on numbers as a result of COVID public health orders.  17-23 May was National Volunteer Week where I had the pleasure of presenting Gabrielle Greiner as Volunteer of the Year at Central Coast’s National Volunteer Awards 2021, along with many other great volunteers being recognised for their hard work and dedication. I congratulate all volunteers!   I joined the CEO in attending, I attended the Central Coast Economic Breakfast hosted by Business NSW to hear where the Central Coast fits in global, federal and state context for growth.  I continue to meet with the local members of parliament to discuss their key concerns and grant opportunities, including one of Council’s key stakeholders, Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council’s Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer to discuss future opportunities and Council’s MOU.  As I work through the submissions received on the Tranche 3 Asset Sales, I am also visiting those sites of contention to gain a thorough understanding of the issues raised.     

The return of Central Coast Council’s much-loved Harvest Festival over the 12-13 June long weekend has been hailed a great success, drawing record crowds to the Coast’s hinterland communities and providing a welcomed boost to the region’s economy.A celebration of the spectacular Central Coast hinterland, this year’s Harvest Festival saw 30 event hubs run a range of unique events and experiences from farm tours, fruit picking and produce markets to food and wine fairs, degustation dinners and live entertainment.Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said over 48,000 people attended the festival, bringing an estimated economic boost of $5.39 million to our region.“We are delighted to report that over 48,000 locals and visitors stepped out to enjoy Harvest Festival over the long weekend, which marks an increase of 16,000 people from our 2019 event,” Ms Vaughan said.“Our event hubs received an abundance of positive feedback from participants and visitors, many of which travelled from Sydney and beyond to experience the unique events taking place and explore the Coast’s rural communities.“A huge thank you to our attendees for being respectful and following COVID-safe rules throughout the weekend.

Central Coast Council’s June/July school holiday program is here, with a wide range of online and face-to-face activities on offer to keep young minds entertained and bodies moving throughout the winter break.Families can head to the School Holidays what’s on page on Council’s website to see everything that’s taking place.

The ‘Swifties’ in question are the Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater and it is time for Coasties to come together to help protect these critically endangered birds.Community members can make a big difference in the fight to save both beautiful species by participating in local sighting and tree planting initiatives this June.Central Coast Council Director Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said the Australian National University’s (ANU) Swift Parrot SOS Program is an opportunity for locals to join a national conservation initiative.“It is vital that we have the best understanding possible of Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater numbers and we can all help with this important task by joining in the ‘Spot a Swiftie/Report a Regent’ events,” Mr Cox said.“At the events you’ll be taken on a guided bird walk by experts from BirdLife Australia, you’ll learn how to spot a Swiftie, record sightings and take home free trees at the end of the day.“There are great apps that can be used to record sightings and there will be help on the day with that important part of the process.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said Council is thrilled to support this important ANU initiative.“This is a wonderful opportunity to take direct action to protect the beautiful Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater,” Mr Hart said.“This region provides important habitat for these critically endangered birds and I’d encourage as many locals as possible to help with counting and to take advantage of the expert advice and free trees on offer for habitat building.”Spot a Swiftie/Report a Regent Community Day at Bateau BayDate:

It has been encouraging to see the level of engagement we have received from the community on the Tranche 3 proposed Council assets for sale.

Thanks to its bustling vibe, elective wares and great coffee, Long Jetty has become known as the ‘Newtown of the Coast’ and the suburb is now the focus of an exciting new art trail.‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail x Long Jetty’ incorporates three creative initiatives – Creation in Isolation, Changing Faces and Q&A at the Savoy – to give locals and visitors the chance to explore and appreciate original artworks in local businesses from Thursday 17 June to Saturday 19 June.Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said ‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail x Long Jetty’ will see the work of established local artists featured at many of Long Jetty’s favourite venues and shops along The Entrance Road.“Long Jetty has become a creative mecca on the Coast and it is the perfect location for locals and visitors to enjoy creative expression,” Ms Vaughan said.“COVID-19 has impacted all our lives in so many ways and ‘Creation in Isolation’ is a series of poignant works that explore the impact of isolation during this unprecedented time. “Long Jetty has a colourful history and ‘Changing Faces’ celebrates the people that have shaped the area over the years. “The official exhibition opening on Thursday 17 June features ‘Q&A at the Savoy’ – a unique opportunity to hear a panel of local creative entrepreneurs share how ‘place’ influences their work and the success and failure that has come from pursuing their passion.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said ‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail x Long Jetty’ is an opportunity to experience art, explore Long Jetty and reflect on a shared experience through a unique time.“This community-led initiative connects our creative community to local businesses and provides new spaces for their work to be showcased and explored,” Mr Hart said.“Locals and visitors will see art combined with the wonderful food and retail experiences Long Jetty has to offer and have yet another reason to head to this bohemian pocket of the Coast.”‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail x Long Jetty’ is exhibited in Long Jetty businesses along The Entrance Road from Thursday 17 June to Saturday 19 June 2021. The exhibition opening event – ‘Q&A at the Savoy’ – on Thursday 17 June features panellists Kaye Harrison (Documentary Film Maker), Xanthe Highfield (Interior Designer), Luke Shadbolt (Photographer) and Morgan Mcglone (Chef and Entrepreneur).Explore all activities and ticketing details at lovecentralcoast.com/neighbourhoods-x-long-jetty

Referendum to determine Councillor numbers will proceed this SeptemberCentral Coast Council will engage private provider Australian Election Company Pty Limited for the conduct a Referendum on 4 September 2021.

On 25 May 2021 and 1 June 2021, Central Coast Council adopted the water, sewer and stormwater drainage fees and charges for the 2021-22 charging year in line with the May 2019 three-year price determination by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

The Central Coast hinterland is ready to come alive this weekend for the return of one of Central Coast Council’s much-loved events - Harvest Festival.A celebration of the Central Coast’s spectacular hinterland communities, this year’s Harvest Festival is offering a wide range of unique events and experiences over 12 and 13 June, with thirty event hubs ready to welcome locals and visitors.With a number of Harvest Festival events close to selling out, those interested in attending are reminded to plan ahead and book their spots in advance.

Council’s 24/7 online consultation hub received a record 22,500 visitors during May. Council Administrator Rik Hart thanked the community for engaging on Council matters, taking the time to read information materials and provide considered feedback. “We have had really important projects open for consultation this year including Council’s Draft Operational Plan, Asset Sales and Reclassification Program, the Special Variation for rates, the Central Coast Integrated Water Resource Plan and IPART water, sewer and stormwater prices, plus a Constitutional Referendum Poll and a number of community and environment projects,” Mr Hart said.“Our community’s voice contributes towards Council’s decision-making, helping us to understand community needs and aspirations, identify challenges and opportunities, and assist with improved outcomes.

With nine major events planned across the 2021-22 event calendar, Central Coast Council is welcoming expressions of interest for prospective sponsors to be involved in some of the Central Coast’s most iconic events.Expressions of interest are now open for businesses to partner with Council’s flagship events, including Chromefest, The Lakes Festival, Harvest Festival and Love Lanes, as well as much-loved community events including New Year’s Eve at The Entrance, Flavours by the Sea and Woy Woy Australia Day celebrations.Sponsorship EOIs are also invited for Council’s newest major events - Relish the Coast and Central Coast Music Festival, which will become regular features on the annual event calendar.Council Director Community and Recreation Services Julie Vaughan said each event holds an important place within the Central Coast community, providing opportunities for residents, visitors and businesses to come together, connect and celebrate our unique region. “In addition to bringing the community together and activating our town centres and regional hubs, Council’s major event offerings inject significant economic returns to the Central Coast,” Ms Vaughan said.“2019’s Chromefest injected $14 million into the local economy, while the 2019 Harvest Festival delivered a $8 million boost.“While COVID-19 restrictions may have halted many large-scale events in 2020, residents are eager to see the return of normalcy and connection.

I held an Extraordinary Council meeting on 1 June 2021 as it was my view that Council take the opportunity to place on the record its response to two key matters raised in the Auditor General’s qualified opinion outlined in the Report on Local Government 2020.There is no question whatsoever that Central Coast Council deserves a qualified report given our current financial situation.

Central Coast Council’s 2021-22 Community Grants Program will open 1 July 2021, with $900,000 in annual funding available to support local community groups and organisations to deliver worthwhile projects, programs and events that strengthen our community.Council Director Community and Recreation Services Julie Vaughan said Council is running a series of free information sessions, drop-in sessions and grant writing workshops throughout June and July to support community members throughout the application process.“This year, community groups and organisations will be able to apply for funding under three programs - the Community Development Grant Program, the Community Events and Place Activation Program and the Community Support Program,” Ms Vaughan said.“These three programs have been prioritised due to the significant benefits and outcomes they will deliver to the broader community.“Unlike in previous years, there will only be one round of grant applications over the 2021-22 financial year for the Community Development and Events and Place Activation Grants programs, so if you are looking to deliver a project or event in the next 18 months, we encourage you to plan ahead by attending our upcoming information sessions and applying when applications open in July.“The sessions and workshops are open to anyone in the community and are designed to help applicants better understand the process, improve the quality of their applications and communicate some of the changes to the Community Grants Program for 2021-22.”Council Administrator Mr Rik Hart said the Community Grants Program plays an important role in supporting organisations to deliver events and programs that respond to the needs of our community.“Through its Community Grants Program, Council provides community organisations with the support to deliver activities and events which build the community’s capacity and create stronger local connections,” Mr Hart said.To book into to an upcoming information session or grant writing workshop and to learn more about the 2021-22 Community Grants Program, visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/grants. ENDS 

It is National Reconciliation Week and this year’s theme is ‘More than a word.

Central Coast Council has completed upgrade works at Kanwal Oval, improving the lighting system, drainage and irrigation for local sporting clubs and residents. Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said completion of this project for the community will better support local sports groups and promote a healthier and more active community. “Kanwal Oval is a much loved and frequently used community facility that was in need of some TLC.

First Nations children and young people from across the Central Coast are having their creative expression celebrated through Maliga – the annual visual storytelling program that helps to mark Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week.Maliga sees First Nations young people share stories of culture and identity through visual, performance and literary expression, with artworks featured in a collaborative street flag presentation in Wyong, Toukley, Long Jetty and Umina town centres and The Entrance Bridge and along Tuggerah Straight.Central Coast Council Acting Director Community and Recreation Services, Phil Cantillon said this year’s artworks showcase both a traditional and contemporary style.“Council is thrilled to once again help celebrate the stories and talent of our young First Nations people aged three to 18 through the Maliga program,” Mr Cantillon said.“The street flag presentation is an annual highlight for the Coast and this year we can enjoy pieces by local artist Kyle Waters and the work of students from Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College (The Entrance and Berkeley Vale), Kincumber Public School, Kincumber High, Wyong High School and Wadalba Community School.“Maliga means Shine in Darkinjung language and the Maliga visual storytelling program is a community led initiative that provides an outstanding platform for young First Nations people on the Coast to shine.”The Maliga flags will help to mark Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) and NAIDOC Week (4 July – 11 July).Gosford Regional Gallery and The Entrance Gallery will also be celebrating First Nations Peoples through exhibitions and events including:Cleverman exhibition (Gosford Regional Gallery)Colours of Country exhibition (Gosford Regional Gallery)Saltwater Freshwater (The Entrance Gallery).Maliga is made possible through collaborations with local Elders, cultural leaders and educational institutions and the participation of First Nations families.This year’s flags include a representation of ‘Tiddalik the Frog’ brought to life through the illustrative skills of local artist of Kamilaroi descent, Kyle Waters.Council Administrator, Rik Hart said Council is committed to supporting reconciliation and celebrating young First Nations peoples from the Coast.“The Coast is home to a growing First Nations peoples community – including many talented young people – and it is wonderful to be able to hear their stories and experience their work through important initiatives such as Maliga,” Mr Hart said.“It is important to mark Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week and encourage everyone to enjoy the artworks across the Coast and attend the featured exhibitions at our galleries.”Find out more by searching 'Maliga' on Council's website and for details about exhibitions/events at our galleries visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/GalleriesENDS

Central Coast Council and the NSW Government have today officially opened the newly redeveloped Terrigal BMX Track, the last piece of the Duffy’s Oval Recreation Precinct revitalisation project.Works have included reshaping jumps, asphalting berms and laying a synthetic surface on dirt sections.

The role of migrant communities in the Coast’s rich history and bright future is rarely explored.‘If These Walls Could Talk’ uses visual storytelling to shine a light on the experiences and contributions of four migrant business owners from The Entrance and four from Woy Woy.Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said the project beautifully and powerfully captures a series of important local migrant stories.“Through photographs and written narratives, you will be immersed in the stories of eight local business owners that help to make our region a wonderful place to live, work and play,” Ms Vaughan said.“‘If These Walls Could Talk’ provides insight into the cultural, social and economic perspectives of migrant business owners who have chosen to call the Coast home.“Through this project we are creating an important platform for the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community to express aspects of their culture in a safe, inclusive and non-invasive manner, and to address misconceptions about multiculturalism.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said migrant communities make an invaluable contribution to the Central Coast.“I encourage all community members to take the time to engage with the stories of local migrant business owners featured in ‘If These Walls Could Talk,” Mr Hart said.“Cultural diversity helps to make the Coast a dynamic place and will play a crucial role in the region’s bright future.”A demountable storyboard at Memorial Park, The Entrance will showcase elements of the project to compliment the visual storytelling featured online.‘If These Walls Could Talk’ launched on 21 May 2021 to coincide with ‘World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue’, an international day to acknowledge cultural diversity within our communities.Community members can experience ‘‘If These Walls Could Talk’ by visiting ifthesewallscouldtalk.com.au