In response to increased reports of the scavenging for containers to return under the NSW Return and Earn scheme, Central Coast Council is reminding the community the contents of household and public litter bins are not public property.The NSW container deposit scheme was introduced in NSW on 1 December 2017 with a number of collection points across the Coast where recyclable containers can earn ten cents an item.Council Acting Senior Manager Business and Economic Development, Andrew Pearce, said there were concerns about the mess being left behind and invasion of privacy by people raiding residential and public waste recycling bins.

Planning where to park in Terrigal is now easier with the launch of ParkSpot (Central Coast), a parking app providing real time information on parking availability for one of the coast’s busiest areas.

Central Coast Council is welcoming the confirmation of State Government funding to extend the dredging of the Ettalong Channel from the Rescuing Our Waterways Program.Council applied for $2.4 million in funding under this Program in June this year and today’s announcement has confirmed the success of this application for matching funding from the State Government.Mayor Jane Smith said Council has responded to community concerns about navigation in the Channel by applying for the matching funding and was pleased the application had been processed so quickly.“Our community want a solution to the issue of Ettalong Channel and today’s announcement will see that happen through collaboration with the State Government,” Mayor Smith said.“The devil is in the detail of how best to undertake this dredging exercise in cooperation with the State Government and how we will now use the sand to renourish nearby beaches.“We are willing to work through a long-term solution for our community.“As we have said all along there is currently no funding allocated in this year’s budget so savings of $1.225 million will now need to be found in other areas to pay for our share.”

From the North to the South, Central Coast Council’s popular School Holiday Program is back with new activities for all ages, including the older kids!Out now, the September/October program lists a combination of free and paid events, live entertainment, art and sporting activities.

Central Coast Council’s motions seeking to be joined as a party to current proceedings in the Land and Environment Court of NSW between Verde Terra Pty and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) have been adjourned for hearing to 9 October 2018.Those proceedings concern applications made by Verde Terra to the EPA to modify an existing environment protection licence issued for the Mangrove Mountain landfill site.Council will not make further comment about those proceedings until those motions are determined by the Court.

Central Coast Council has recommended average residential water bills be reduced across the Central Coast from 1 July 2019, in its submission on the review of water, sewerage and stormwater drainage prices.Council lodged the submission to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) on Friday 7 September 2018.Council Senior Manager, Water and Sewer, Bileen Nel said Council was proposing to align prices across the two former local government areas, improve a number of key service levels and reduce the typical residential water bill.“Price consistency across the Central Coast was a top priority for our community and we have listened to this feedback,” Ms Nel said.“Our submission is also built around the top three values for these services identified by our community – reliability, value for money and efficiency.“A number of capital works programs have been identified to improve water supply security for our region including an upgrade to the Mangrove Creek Dam spillway, which was highlighted by our community as a key consideration.”The final submission to IPART demonstrates Council’s commitment to openness and transparency by detailing a four-year capital works program and agreed service levels to ensure the Central Coast community understands where and how their money is spent.Council has recommended an alignment of prices for non-residential customers, which will result in a decrease in charges for some customers and an increase for others due to the way charges are applied.IPART will now consider Council’s submission as part of the review and determination process, which provides opportunities for the community to provide feedback direct to IPART by 12 October 2018 or by attending IPART’s Public Hearing on 27 November 2018.Ms Nel said Council would also conduct a number of community information sessions in September to provide further insight into how Council’s submission would affect the Central Coast community.“I encourage all members of our community to take part in this process, read the documents available, attend our community information sessions and provide feedback direct to IPART.”Council’s submission, details about the IPART consultation process and further details on Council’s community information sessions are available at yourvoiceourcoast.com/WaterPricing

Central Coast Council has commissioned engineering consultants BMT to undertake an overland flood study for each of the contributing catchments within the Central Coast Council Local Government Area (LGA) that flow into Lake Macquarie.The flood study forms an initial stage towards the development of a comprehensive Floodplain Risk Management Plan, in accordance with the NSW Floodplain Development Manual (2005).Council Acting Director Assets, Infrastructure and Business, Boris Bolgoff, said Council has taken the initiative to carry out the flood study to assist with managing the risk the community faces from flooding.“We are eager to receive any comments and information from our community who live in the catchment areas about their experiences of local flooding,” Mr Bolgoff said.“The participation and feedback from the community is essential to the success of the study, and will be instrumental in helping to develop a detailed plan to manage ongoing flood risk.“The flood study is in its inception phase where the consultants are collecting and collating data on flooding and the catchment.

Pearl Beach artist Annie Reid has taken out the major prize in the prestigious Grandma Moses Art Competition, which attracted a record number of entries this year.The painting of the Californian beachside suburb San Clemente is on display at the Grandma Moses Exhibition in Gosford.

Pearl Beach artist Annie Reid has taken out the major prize in the prestigious Grandma Moses Art Competition, which attracted a record number of entries this year.The painting of the Californian beachside suburb San Clemente is on display at the Grandma Moses Exhibition in Gosford.

Whether you are sleeping rough or struggling to purchase your first home, an innovative new strategy will address housing insecurity on the Central Coast.Central Coast Council has placed the region’s first Draft Affordable and Alternative Housing Strategy (the Strategy) on public exhibition and is inviting Coast residents to have their say before the strategy is finalised.Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said the Strategy had been developed after extensive consultation with key stakeholders in the housing sector.“We know there are no affordable housing options for people on very low incomes.

Council calls for report to ensure Coast’s water supply is secure for the futureCouncil is calling for a report to ensure there is a considered plan in place to secure the Coast’s water supply in light of the current drought conditions, possible approval of Wallarah 2 and effects of climate change.With NSW now in drought, the report will consider all water security options to increase efficiencies and seek alternate options to source water.

Central Coast Council is about to change the way we think about art with its new, free interactive chalk art event for the community.On 4-7 October the first ever ‘Chalk the Walk’ will turn the Waterfront Plaza at The Entrance into one giant canvas, creating a number of new ways for the community to get involved.Council Unit Manager Community Partnerships, Glenn Cannard, said the inaugural ‘Chalk the Walk’ event is a free event for the community uniquely designed to showcase the talents of the Coast in a fun and interactive way.“Council is delighted to launch this exciting new event which truly brings something unique to the Central Coast.” Mr Cannard said.“The inaugural ‘Chalk the Walk’ will feature two large 3D artworks by renowned street artist, Anton Pulvirenti, with another 20 chalk masterpieces being produced by local artists to make an interactive pavement gallery.“On Sunday, 7 October we also have a special opportunity for 10 young artists to register and take part in a major collaborative piece.

A group of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) adults who live on the Coast are now much safer in the water, thanks to funding from Central Coast Council.Council’s Community Grants Program provided $11,850 to Royal Life Saving NSW to run a 10-week swimming and water safety program for 50 adults.Royal Life Saving NSW Hunter/Central Coast Regional Manager Tanya Brunckhorst said the number of new migrants unable to swim is extremely high in comparison to other Australians, and members of the CALD community were often unaware of the importance of water safety.“In 2016-17, 93 people drowned in NSW, which is more than any other state or territory,” Ms Brunckhorst said.“A number of these drownings were people from CALD backgrounds.“The CALD swimming and water safety program has been a great success.

A floodplain risk management study for the Wallarah Creek catchment is currently being carried out by Central Coast Council, to identify the risk and impact of flooding during storm events.Supported by the NSW Government’s Floodplain Management program, the study forms part of a series undertaken across areas identified as a priority and will include the suburbs of Blue Haven, Wallarah and Bushells Ridge, along with sections of Doyalson, San Remo, Charmhaven and Woongarrah.Council’s Acting Director of Assets, Infrastructure and Business, Boris Bolgoff, said the local residents are invited to participate and share any relevant information that may assist with the study.“Council is asking the community to assist by collecting information on their local flood knowledge and any past flooding experiences,” Mr Bolgoff said.“Residents in identified areas included in the study will be sent a survey to complete and return by post, or submit online via www.yourvoiceourcoast.com.“We are also encouraging the community to submit any photos or videos of flooding events in the study areas.”The study survey closes on Friday 21 September 2018.

Central Coast Library Service is encouraging the community to rediscover their local library during National Literacy and Numeracy Week, 4-10 September.Now in its twentieth year, National Literacy and Numeracy Week celebrates learning and raises awareness of the importance of developing reading, writing and mathematical skills.Council Acting Unit Manager Libraries, Mrs Beth Burgess, said even though the week is a focus for schools, Council libraries offer a myriad of services for the whole community to inspire lifelong learning.“We are here to create dynamic learning environments that meet our community’s needs and help strengthen educational opportunities, regardless of age,” Mrs Burgess said.“With more than half of residents aged over 15 having not gone on to complete Year 12, we take on a crucial role in supporting literacy and numeracy skills, which have been shown to have a strong correlation with employment outcomes.“We try to instil a love of learning and reading in the early years and with this in mind we have specialised weekly programs for children from six months to five years.“Tomorrow we will be holding a special Literacy Skills event for pre-schoolers, where reading and dyslexia specialist, Rosemary Ruthven, will provide practical tips to help parents and carers develop childrens’ phonemic awareness.”Bookings are essential and can be made via centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/libraries or call 4304 7650.Library branches also run a number of bookclubs to encourage or continue an appreciation for reading at any age.“We run primary, teen, after hours and many daytime monthly bookclubs across our branches,” Mrs Burgess said.“I would encourage anyone interested in joining a bookclub to contact our Library Service for more information as these meet-ups are very popular and spaces are limited.“With around five per cent of residents from a non-English speaking background we also provide support to develop English skills with free access to NSW Adult Migrant English Service books, online courses and ESL Meet and Greet sessions at Gosford Library every Tuesday, 10am-12pm.“We also offer free access to Studiosity – an online service for students in years 3 to 12 as well as TAFE and first year undergraduate university students studying statistics, economics or accounting – that provides real time advice from professionals and 24 hour feedback on essays and assignments.“In fact, Maths is by far the most common subject that students seek help with, accounting for around 75 per cent of tutorials delivered so far this year.“There is also free access to the online program, 10 Monkeys, aimed at providing a fun and engaging way for primary school students to improve maths skills.“All this is just the tip of the iceberg – if you or your children need any assistance I urge you to come into one of our branches or browse our resources online.”To take advantage of the fantastic range of educational services and resources available, join online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/jointhelibrary

Central Coast Council has put a rare collection of photographs on display depicting the history of death customs on the Central Coast, as part of History Week this week.The fascinating collection ‘In the Midst of Life’, with pieces rarely seen by the public, documents the ways in which death has been part of Central Coast life and reflects on the many ways that the deceased can be remembered.Council Local History Librarian, Geoff Potter said the unusual collection uses resources from the Library’s extensive Local History Collection and offers a unique perspective on our region’s historically significant cemeteries, lonely bush graves and funeral customs.“Death is an unusual topic for a display and can still be regarded as taboo by many people, but it is still an important part of our history and relics such as treasured family photographs, mourning cards and condolence cards may be kept as reminders.” Mr Potter said.“As funerals are rarely recorded, this collection is quite unique and reflects a side of Central Coast heritage and the funeral industry which is rarely seen.

Central Coast residents and community groups can now apply for a share in more than $1.7million to create community events, activities and initiatives.Applications open today for funding through the first round of Central Coast Council’s 2018-19 Community Grants and Sponsorship Program.Council Director Connected Communities Julie Vaughan said this year’s program had been streamlined to ensure an even greater number of community projects will be eligible for funding.“Last year, Council introduced the coast-wide grants and sponsorship program, which was well received by the community,” Ms Vaughan said.“This year, we have refined the program so applicants will have greater clarity about the best funding category for their project.”Mayor Jane Smith said the Community Grants and Sponsorship Program offers fantastic opportunities to not only improve the lifestyle of Coast residents but to promote the region as a great place to visit.“We want to hear all ideas no matter how big or small, as we want to see programs that are dynamic, responsive and targeted to support and grow local community development, sporting, environmental, tourism and economic development initiatives,” Mayor Smith said.“With more than $1.7million up for grabs, this is a chance to think outside the square to deliver unique, big picture project or events to the Coast that really do make a difference,”“Together we can make the Central Coast the very best place it can be.”Applicants can apply for funds in the following categories:Community Support GrantsCommunity Events and Place Activation GrantsCommunity Infrastructure GrantsCommunity Development GrantsSocial and Creative Enterprises GrantsHeritage GrantsSponsorshipApplications in most categories close on Friday, 5 October 2018.

In March 2019, tourism stakeholders representing Local Government Areas from all around NSW will be able to witness first-hand many of the wonderful experiences and attractions the Central Coast has on offer, as Central Coast Council plays co-host to the LGNSW Tourism Conference at Crowne Plaza in Terrigal.Mayor Jane Smith said that co-hosting this conference with Local Government NSW is an investment in tourism for the region, which comes with many benefits.“Tourism is a significant industry on the Central Coast, and this conference provides an opportunity to share experiences, listen to experts and peers, and find out how other councils are engaging and working with their tourism industry,” said Mayor Smith.“Additionally, we are able to showcase to other local government areas, from all around the state, the little adventures and outstanding features and experiences available on the Central Coast including our beautiful beaches, exciting activities, natural environment and gourmet delights.”Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said that Council put forward an Expression of Interest to host the conference.“We are pleased we have been awarded the opportunity to hold the event on the Central Coast – it is a great opportunity to connect our tourism providers to people attending the conference, and is the perfect way to show them what the Coast has to offer and to learn from others.“Co-hosting this event with LGNSW, along with contributions from our local tourism industry, is another step taken by Council to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of this vital sector for the Central Coast economy – which is the overarching purpose of our five-year Destination Management Plan.”

Central Coast Council is inviting young people aged 14-24 to be part of a Youth Action Team which will make youth-led initiatives happen in our community.Applications have opened for membership of Y4Y (Youth for Youth), a team of 10-12 young people who will advocate, advise and act on youth issues.Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said Council hoped the team would attract a mix of members who will represent the needs of young people from across the Coast.“During its 15-month term, Y4Y will help develop the Council’s youth strategy, run a youth forum and develop other events, resources or activities for young people,” Ms Vaughan said.“We are looking for young people who are keen to develop leadership skills and want to be actively involved in enhancing the Coast as a great place to live, work and play.As part of achieving the team’s purpose to ‘make it happen’, members will meet regularly, attend a leadership camp and participate in skills development.Mayor Jane Smith said Y4Y provides a way to engage and empower young people.“Young people aged between 12 and 24 represent 15.3% of the Coast population or more than 50,000 people,” Mayor Smith said.“They are an important part of our community, both now and in the future.“We are committed to providing our young people with opportunities to develop their leadership skills and to effectively contribute to the community.”Applications close 17 October.Detailscentralcoast.nsw.gov.au/Y4YFAQsWhat will Y4Y do?Provide opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork and decision-making skills.Create youth-based initiatives and ideas for our community.Develop and deliver events such as an annual youth forum, activities and resources for young people.Recognise, celebrate and promote the efforts and achievements of young people.Who can be involved?Young people aged 14-24 who live, work or study on the Central Coast.Young people who want to make a difference and can commit for 15 months.Young people who want to grow their leadership skills.Key datesApplications close:

The most successful Household Chemical CleanOut event for the region was held over the first two weekends of August, with a record breaking 130 tonnes of chemicals dropped off.In total 3104 vehicles, the second highest number on record, passed through the gates over the four days of the bi-annual event hosted by Central Coast Council in conjunction with NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).Mayor Jane Smith said this was a fantastic result and praised Central Coast residents for their commitment to responsibly disposing of hazardous waste.“With the highest amount collected in the event’s eighteen year history, I am really pleased the message about correct disposal of chemicals is getting out there,” Mayor Smith said.“Paints accounted for more than half of all chemicals, with over 75 tonnes dropped off - other popular items included oil and fuels, gas cylinders, lead acid batteries, automotive products and pesticides.“Many of these highly volatile products can react with other chemicals presenting a danger not only to our Waste Management Facilities, but also staff and customers at these locations.“Any materials dropped off over the two weekends will now be safely disposed of by the EPA contractor, and materials such as paint tins, lead acid batteries and motor oils will in fact be recycled or reused.“So by taking part in these events residents are not only helping to reduce pollution and keep hazardous materials out of our landfills, but are proactively allowing for reusable materials and precious metals to be recovered.”The next Chemical CleanOut events will be held next year on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 February at Gosford Showground and Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 March at Council’s Long Jetty Depot, 1 Morris Place, corner of The Entrance and Wyong Roads, Bateau Bay.Council Acting Senior Manager Business and Economic Development, Andrew Pearce, reminded residents there were other opportunities to drop off particular items year round.“Our Waste Management Facilities accept car batteries and up to 20 litres of motor oil each visit, free of charge,” Mr Pearce said.“We also accept LPG gas bottles of up to nine kilograms and fire extinguishers for a charge of $6 per bottle in addition to the mixed waste fee – residents are reminded gas bottles must be handled and stored separately and not mixed in any other waste.“Recycling units are now also at our Wyong and Gosford administration buildings as well as across our library branches where the community can drop off household batteries, light globes as well as mobile phones and their accessories for free.”Sign up to Council’s enews at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or follow our social media accounts for updates on our reuse and recycling initiatives.Chemical CleanOut events are part of the NSW Environment Protection Authority ‘Waste Less, Recycle More’ initiative funded from the waste levy.