Central Coast Council has unveiled a new and enhanced online customer service centre for the community.Council’s Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said the updated platform was part of Council’s commitment to continually improve customers' experience.“Online is another way that customers can engage and inform Council of what is occurring in their homes and in their neighbourhoods,” Ms Vaughan said.“We have made it a priority to improve our online customer services to ensure that every engagement that the community has with us is easy and simple.“We want to get the experience right, so we have simplified the process to allow users to submit a request from anywhere at any time.“The new and improved online customer service centre provides more self-service options when lodging a request, and can assist customers to find information and tips on how to resolve their issue quickly and easily.“Once registered, users can track and view any updates to their service requests via the online service centre.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said the new platform is a win for the community, making initial business with Council more streamlined.“The online customer service centre is one of many services that Council has recently changed after listening to our customers about their experience, including the new Planning Portal for development applications.

With many young people struggling to find work in the current economic climate, Council is running a free Employ Me workshop to arm young Coasties with important tools and skills for gaining employment.The workshop, which will take place at The Hub Erina on 7 October 2020, is designed to help young people put their best foot forward during the job application process and relieve some of the stress associated with job hunting.

A state-of-the-art Water Play Park at the Peninsula Leisure Centre (PLC) has been completed in time for Spring and the school holidays.The $1million interactive water-based play and education space is expected to attract locals and tourists.Central Coast Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said the community-driven project has resulted in the ideal use for the outdoor space at PLC.“This fantastic new amenity is sure to be very popular with the young and the young at heart,” Ms Vaughan said.“The nautical themed Water Play Park can be enjoyed upon entry to the PLC, it combines water-based play and education and has an accessible design to be enjoyed by all community members.”Features of the Water Play Park include a tipping bucket, interactive (cause and effect) elements, shade sail, in-built filtration system and zero depth (for safety and accessibility).Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the new play park was funded by the NSW Government with $850,000 from the Stronger Country Communities Fund as well as over $200,000 from Council.“I want to congratulate the Council staff that have undertaken this million-dollar upgrade at the Peninsula Leisure Centre,” Mr Crouch said.“The PLC is one of Central Coast Council’s most highly-utilised assets, and thanks to the opening of this new Water Play Park, it’s becoming an even better facility for locals to enjoy.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said the collaboration between local and state government had delivered another fantastic facility for the Central Coast community.“There is so much to love about this project – an accessible design that creates a space for fun, physical activity and education,” Mayor Matthews said.“This is one of many projects, Council is delivering this year with the State Government, while adhering to important COVID-19 requirements.”The Water Play Park will be open to the public from Saturday 26 September.

Players and sporting groups of Tacoma’s Don Small Oval will be cheering following the completion of the new sportsground amenities building that will service the needs of this growing sporting community.Council’s Director of Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said the new sportsground amenities replace the original Wyong Lakes Australian Football Club building which was destroyed by fire in 2013 and the existing dilapidated amenities building.“Don Small Oval is home to the Wyong Lakes Australian Rules Football Club and Central Coast Cricket whose efforts to help source funding paid off with a collection of grants secured to deliver this project,” Mr Cox said.“This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government, Central Coast Council, AFL NSW/ACT and Wyong Lakes FC through grant funding received from the Australian Government and NSW Government."The new sportsground amenities building will meet the growing needs of local sporting groups, whilst ensuring compliance with current building requirements and Australian standards.

Central Coast Council will present a ‘drive in’ concert to bring the magic of a live music event back to the Coast in a way that meets current COVID-19 restrictions.‘Live at the Drive In’ is a first for the Central Coast and will feature the modern blues genius of headliner Ash Grunwald and local support Elaskia performing to audience members sitting comfortably and safely in their own cars.Council Unit Manager Community Partnerships, Glenn Cannard said he was excited about the Central Coast hosting a ‘drive in’ event.“Who doesn’t love a ‘drive in’ movie?

The weekend saw the last NRL game hosted at Central Coast Stadium of our adopted home team the New Zealand Warriors.

With the expected influx of visitors over the school holidays Council is putting in place plans to keep the Coast COVID-safe.New signs are in place at all Town Centres reminding visitors about public health warnings around no large gatherings, social distancing, encouraging mask use and hand sanitation.

Council adopts a positive jobs plan for a Central CoastThe first ever Economic Development Strategy for the Central Coast has been adopted, positioning the region as the place to do business, creating jobs and prosperity for the region.The local economy will be strengthened through targeted investment, improved partnerships between the community, business and education sectors and all levels of government.Mayor Lisa Matthews said COVID had great challenges for local and global economies but Council is determined to lead to way with a positive plan to deliver jobs for the growing community.“We know our community are doing it tough, we know our businesses are doing it tough but we are already seeing the signs we are coming out of this with lots of interest from people wanting to live, visit and do business here,” Mayor Matthews said.“Creating local jobs and opportunities has always been a priority for this Council and our community - we now have a Plan to deliver it.“We are going to directly invest in our people, infrastructure and digital capability and transform the economy of the Central Coast.” 678 submissions were received during the exhibition of the Economic Development Strategy 2020-2040 and Economic Recovery and Resilience Framework with 86% agreeing it was important for Council to develop and implement a detailed plan to grow the local economy.“72,000 additional jobs and economic growth of $21 billion is needed by 2040 to support the population growth predicted for the region and we are pleased to have a Plan in place now that will help make that happen,” Mayor Matthews said.Development of a new Education and Business Precinct for Warnervale a step closerCouncil has endorsed a concept plan, for public exhibition, to turn Council-owned land, in Warnervale, into an Education and Business Precinct.The land situated on the eastern side of 30 Jack Grant Avenue, is bounded by Porters Creek wetlands and the future Warnervale Link Road (connecting Wyong to Watanobbi).

Central Coast Council is reminding the community to keep safety top-of-mind if heading to Terrigal these school holidays, as works continue on the construction of Terrigal Boardwalk and upgrade to the existing rockpool.Council advises anyone visiting the area to follow all signage and directions and adhere to the latest COVID-19 restrictions.

With the HSC just around the corner, Council is reminding local students and their families to take advantage of the many free online study resources available via its Library Service, including the online homework tool Studiosity.Available to students in Years 3-12 through to tertiary level, Studiosity connects students to vetted subject specialists, who can provide real-time feedback and support via a live chat function at any hour of the day.Council Section Manager Library Strategy and Connection, Benjamin Hartley said that the platform is an excellent resource for students looking for additional help and guidance as they prep for exams and complete assignments or homework.“With thousands of students across the Coast preparing for the HSC right now, it’s the perfect time for us to remind our local students of the free online support available to them through our Library Service,” said Mr Hartley.“Platforms like Studiosity can give students a much-needed leg up when preparing for exam season, particularly when looking for additional support and advice outside of the classroom.“Knowing that there is a subject expert available to review draft essays, provide guidance and share feedback 24/7 will help to reduce the stress and worry that students often feel when studying alone.“As added support, students can also access a range of reliable sites on topics including Modern History, Ancient History, Literature, Science, Geography and Culture and Religion via Council’s free eResources section.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said that providing the community with free access to these online resources helps to level the playing field for all students.“The way students access information and support is constantly evolving and we are thrilled to offer a range of resources and platforms to benefit students of all ages and their families,” said Mayor Matthews.“One of Council’s key priorities is to cultivate a love of learning and knowledge in our community and we are proud to be contributing to this with these important initiatives.”Community members can access Studiosity using their library membership number at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/Studiosity and check out a range of free study eResources at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/eresources.Not a library member?

Last week I hosted a Summertime 2020/21 Tourism & COVID-19 Safety Roundtable to discuss tourism opportunities to boost our local economy and operating in a COVID safe way. I was joined virtually by representatives from the Central Coast Local Health District, Destination Sydney Surrounds, Business NSW, NSW Police – Brisbane Water and Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command, Clubs NSW State Councillor Central Coast and Central Coast Council staff. Discussed were ways we can collectively support local businesses during the holiday period, manage crowds, pop up COVID testing clinics, beach patrols and promoting our region.With state borders currently closed it is anticipated there will be an influx of visitors coming to the coast and we want to ensure we are providing visitors opportunities and prepared in the current climate of COVID-19.There are currently 2,191 Central Coast businesses that are COVID-safe registered.Data from the Australian Hotels Association indicates for the Central Coast all weekend accommodation in the lead up to Christmas, as well as all accommodation over the Christmas period, is currently very near capacity.We welcome visitors to our region however be sure to share the love across the whole coast rather than the popular tourist locations.

The Coast’s beloved ChromeFest may not be going ahead in its usual format this year but Central Coast Council has found a way to keep the engine humming in 2020.ChromeFest Overdrive TV will bring the head-turning beauty of classic American cars and some classic 1950s rock 'n' roll fun into the homes of locals and the many visitors who travel to the Coast for the event each year.Council Unit Manager Community Partnerships, Glenn Cannard said the event will feature many interactive moments.“ChromeFest is a Central Coast institution and whilst we’ve switched gears in 2020, ChromeFest Overdrive TV will offer a lot of fun for everyone,” Mr Cannard said.“2020 has not been a great year for events and initiatives, so this will help keep the fun alive.“There’s something for everyone – vote for your favourite show cars across 18 different categories, dance to your favourite bands, and even pick up hair and makeup tricks through an online tutorial workshop.“We’ve even partnered with some local restaurants and cafés to offer ‘ChromeFeast’ meals – so be sure to pick up some sumptuous takeaway options to enjoy while watching the event from the comfort of your own homes."Mayor Lisa Matthews said the challenges of 2020 had inspired creative thinking in the events space.“We may not be lining the streets of The Entrance to watch the chrome of classic cars roll into town but we will be able to enjoy some ChromeFest fun at home,” Mayor Matthews said.“The restrictions required to manage COVID-19 have been challenging on all of us and initiatives like ChromeFest Overdrive TV are a great way to keep the fun alive and our community engaged.”‘ChromeFest Overdrive TV’ highlights include:Online Show N’ Shine in partnership with Californian Crusin’ Car Club, for the public to vote for their favourite ChromeFest car across 18 categoriesViva La Vintage hair and makeup tutorial workshopMiss ChromeFest Pinup competitionThe Sydney Swing Katz tearing up the dance floor dance displaysChromeFest 2020 bands live streamedChromeFeast – a selection of hospitality businesses from across the coast will have meal packages to be enjoyed whilst streaming the fun.‘ChromeFest Overdrive TV’ will be featured on the ChromeFest Facebook page on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October 2020.

As part of Central Coast Council continued effort to deliver consistent policies for the whole region, five consolidated draft policies that relate to open space leasing, tree vandalism, keeping of animals and smoke-free outdoor areas are now on public exhibition for the community to review and submit comments.This forms part of the ongoing program to review 68 policies from the Environment and Planning Directorate in order to consolidate all former Wyong Shire Council and Gosford City Council policies following the amalgamation.During the review process, where policies are found to have ongoing relevance, they are being updated and consolidated to ensure a single policy exists for the Central Coast Local Government Area (LGA).

Community members are invited to provide feedback on Central Coast Council’s Draft Positive Ageing Strategy 2021-2026, which outlines how Council will deliver services that support our older residents to age healthily, feel connected and enjoy an age-friendly community.Council Acting Director of Connected Communities, Phil Cantillon said the draft strategy builds on the first Central Coast Positive Ageing Strategy 2014 and renews Council’s commitment to better meeting the needs and aspirations of the Coast’s growing older population.“The Central Coast has long been an attractive place for older people to live and retire, with 27 percent of the region’s population aged 60 years and above*,” said Mr Cantillon.“With the number of residents aged over 60 expected to increase by almost 39 percent by 2036, it’s vital that we ensure that our services, programs and infrastructure reflect the evolving needs of this population.“The Draft Positive Ageing Strategy has been informed by what our older residents have told us, their aspirations and expectations, as well as research and consultation with relevant service providers.“There are many areas where Council can play a key role in positive ageing, from providing options for older people to connect, learn, exercise and have fun to making Council services and facilities more accessible and providing information to older people about what is on in their community, how they can get involved and how to get support.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said that Council’s Draft Positive Ageing Strategy is part of Council’s commitment to ensuring our older community members live active, healthy and independent lives.“Older people play a vital role in our community and it is important to recognise and respect the significant contribution they make to our vibrant region as workers, volunteers, neighbours, friends, parents and grandparents,” said Mayor Matthews.“Our Positive Ageing Strategy aims to enhance participation, improve quality of life and provide support to older residents so that they can continue to participate in and contribute to community life as they grow older.”The Draft Positive Ageing Strategy 2021-2026 outlines four key areas of focus where Council can make a positive difference to older residents:

Taking the ‘trash’ out of waste managementThe adoption of an innovative waste management strategy has underlined Central Coast Council’s commitment to being a leader in its approach to reducing waste and recovering resources which would otherwise end up in landfill.Council last night adopted its inaugural Waste Resource Management Strategy, including provision to maintain the general waste red bin weekly service for residents and investigate the introduction of a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service for the Central Coast.

I was proud to announce last week a fantastic soft plastics recycling initiative Central Coast Council is leading the way in, and the interest from our community has been phenomenal.Central Coast Council is the only council in Australia who is currently trialling a soft plastics recycling initiative.

The adoption of an innovative waste management strategy has underlined Central Coast Council’s commitment to being a leader in its approach to reducing waste and recovering resources which would otherwise end up in landfill.Council last night adopted its inaugural Waste Resource Management Strategy including provision to maintain the general waste red bin weekly service for residents and investigate the introduction of a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service for the Central Coast.

Central Coast Council has commenced the dredging program for The Entrance Channel.The program is set to continue through coming months, in accordance with the EPA licence and other environmental constrains and will be conducted in two stages.Mayor Lisa Matthews said it is important to see the program get underway.“Dredging The Entrance channel is important for our community, and I am glad to see the 2020-21 program begin,” Mayor Matthews said.“The sand from the dredging program will ultimately be used to nourish the highly eroded North Entrance Beach but will first be used in the preparation of staging, or work, areas near Karagi Reserve.”Council Director Environment and Planning, Scott Cox, said the dredging program would look a little different to previous years, but that it was necessary to ensure Council met its environmental obligations.“Council has been working with coastal experts Royal HaskoningDHV to develop a program that meets the NSW EPA’s licencing requirements,” Mr Cox said.“This means that Council will now be pumping the dredged sand to the areas inside the channel near Karagi reserve where it will be ‘dewatered’ before being manually moved to areas we plan to nourish, including North Entrance Beach.“This process will be slower than previous years as the sand will have to be handled twice, and will mean that the community need to take extra care while the heavy machinery moves around on the beaches.“However, the program will remove an estimated 30,000 cubic metres of sand from the channel.“Our dredging plan also takes into consideration the imminent arrival of the Little terns and I want to assure the community we are taking measures to mitigate any impact on them while dredging is taking place.“As part of preparation of our dredging plans, Council has engaged ornithologists (bird specialists) to help develop an appropriate plan. “We will continue to monitor for the arrival of the Little Terns and when they arrive, we will seek further advice on the continuation of the program.”Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the NSW Government was contributing $600,000 to the project. “In February 2020, the NSW Government provided $600,000 to dredge The Entrance Channel and I am pleased that work is finally getting underway,” Mr Crouch said.“Council has matched this funding on a dollar-for-dollar basis, allowing for a $1.2 million dredging project.”The dredging program is funded by both Central Coast Council and the NSW Government through the Rescuing Our Waterways fund.

Join us for the fifth online Innovation Breakfast about the ‘Future of Industry’.

Central Coast Council has released a redacted version of the previously confidential Airport Review (Phase Two) Final Report, conducted by independent consultants, Morrison Low.The Report reviewed a large body of information relating to:The project to establish a regional airport at Kiar RidgeThe development of an Aviation Hub at Central Coast AirportAny activities, including works and development applications lodged, by the current Council or former Wyong Council relating to works at the airport site;