Central Coast Council Library Service is set to benefit from a record boost in funding, with the State Government delivering $36.5 million in funding to NSW public libraries in 2019/20.NSW State Librarian John Vallance welcomed this significant increase announced as part of the NSW State Budget in 2019, which will see a total of $60 million in additional Government funding going to public libraries over four years.“Public libraries offer so much to the people of NSW including quality collections, comfortable and safe public spaces, high speed internet, as well as events and programs.

Locals and visitors travelling through Terrigal CBD are enjoying significantly reduced peak hour travel times following a $2.2million Central Coast Council project.Council Director Roads, Transport, Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said average queue lengths on Terrigal Drive have been reduced by over 220 metres, saving motorists more than 12 minutes when travelling the 1.1 kilometres from Terrigal Drive to Terrigal Haven during peak hour.“Since completing Stage one of our Terrigal CBD traffic flow improvement project we’ve received excellent feedback from community members and business owners in the area,” Mr Bolgoff said.“We’ve been monitoring traffic flow carefully and we’ve seen marked improvements.“When we compare data captured since completion of our project to 2016 data, queue lengths and travel times have been significantly reduced, and this is despite an increase in traffic volume over the last three years.The project has reduced traffic ‘looping’ and unregulated pedestrian activities by creating two-way routes on Campbell Crescent, Church Street and Kurrawyba Avenue, and restricting right-hand turns to and from Terrigal Esplanade.The installation of parking sensors also allows locals and visitors to check on parking availability through the ParkSpot app. Mayor Jane Smith said one of the Central Coast’s most iconic locations was now even more appealing.“Terrigal is increasingly popular with locals and tourists alike and this project has made this beautiful location significantly easier to access,” Mayor Smith said.“We involved and listened to our community through every step of this project and have delivered benefits for community members, businesses and tourists.”Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the NSW Government was proud to have fully funded the project.“Terrigal is the jewel in the crown of the Central Coast and I’m thrilled to have secured the funding for this project through the Stronger Communities Fund,” Mr Crouch said.“The traffic flow improvements have exceeded the expectations of locals, business owners and visitors and is a vital step in making Terrigal more accessible.”Key project features include: new/modified pedestrian crossings throughout the CBDtraffic control signals at Terrigal Esplanade and Campbell Crescent intersectionmid-block pedestrian traffic control signals on Terrigal Esplanadeno right turn from Campbell Crescent into Terrigal Esplanadeno right turn from Terrigal Esplanade into Kurrawyba Avenue (emergency vehicles and vehicles over six metres excepted)two-way traffic on Campbell Crescent, Church Street and Kurrawyba Avenuemountable roundabout at Church Street, Pine Tree Lane and Kurrawyba Avenue intersectionmodified kerb and guttering and new road pavementparking sensors.The project was one of ten local projects made possible through the Stronger Communities Fund, established by the NSW Government to provide merged Council’s with funding to kick-start the delivery of projects that improve community infrastructure and services.Stage 1 of the Terrigal CBD traffic flow improvements were completed in October 2018 ahead of the busy summer period.

Central Coast Council currently has opportunities for apprentices and trainees to build their career in a range of areas.

At this stage there is no change to Councils approach to the use of herbicides containing glyphosate for the purpose of weed control within the Central Coast Local Government Area.The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) are the appropriate statutory body regulating chemicals registered for use in Australia.

Council adopts Flying Fox Management StrategyCouncil has adopted the Central Coast Flying Fox Management Strategy following exhibition of a draft and consideration of feedback from the community.The strategy establishes a framework for the consistent management of all flying-fox camps and their habitat in the Central Coast region.Key initiatives of the strategy include education/awareness, subsidies for property modification, incident management, supporting research, appropriate land-use and the creation of vegetation buffers;

NSW Touch Football and Central Coast Council are pleased to announce the Central Coast Regional Sporting and Recreational Complex has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2020 and 2022 NSW Junior Regional Championship.Central Coast Council Mayor Jane Smith said the Complex was living up to its promise of delivering major sporting events for the region.“This is great news for our region.

Central Coast Council will warmly welcome high school students and teachers from one of our Sister Cities on Friday 26 July.Twenty students from Edogawa City High School, in Tokyo, along with 20 students from our local Narara Valley High School, will meet Central Coast Mayor Jane Smith and the Gosford Sister City Association for morning tea at the Council Chamber in Wyong.Mayor Smith said she was delighted to welcome the visiting party of students and teachers.“Our sister city relationship stretches back 30 years, providing wonderful opportunities for friendship and cultural exchange for current and future generations on the Coast,” Mayor Smith said.“It is mutually beneficial for both regions, creating awareness between the two cultures.

Central Coast Council’s Launch Pad program drew more than 30 potential investors, community leaders and business owners to its inaugural public ‘pitching’ night held in late June at Gosford Smart Work Hub.Launch Pad, a three-month training program to support the development of social enterprises, culminated in a ‘Shark Tank’ style pitching night which gave its televised contemporaries a run for their money.Council’s Acting Director Connected Communities, Phil Cantillon said Launch Pad graduates pitched their ideas for financially sustainable enterprises which benefit the community.“One financial institution has already entered into negotiations to back two of the enterprises, while another communications business has offered to support the enterprises in terms of marketing their ideas,” Mr Cantillon said.“The night brought the community together, with inspiration, ideas and people who care about the Coast.”Enterprise ideas included a commercial kitchen incorporating TAFE training, recycling pre-loved prams and baby furniture to low-income families, and creating inclusive community events.More than 35 commercial and community leaders attended the evening at Gosford Smart Work Hub.Mayor Jane Smith said Launch Pad built strong relationships within the community.“Launch Pad connects people, builds capacity and creates local solutions and initiatives.

Central Coast Council is once again encouraging residents to clear any unwanted hazardous chemicals in homes, garages and sheds to be correctly disposed of at the next bi-annual Chemical CleanOut events.Hosted in conjunction with NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), the upcoming events will be held 9am-3.30pm at Council’s Charmhaven Depot (corner Chelmsford and Depot Roads) on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 August, and Mount Penang Event Park, Kariong (off Kangoo Road) on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 August.Council Director Roads Transport Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said it was fantastic to be able to host the southern event at Mount Penang Event Park, Kariong for the second time.“Our last two consecutive CleanOut events have broken records for the amount of chemicals dropped off, so it is great we have been able to secure this larger location,” Mr Bolgoff said.“This consistent response to Chemical CleanOut events shows our residents are truly committed to disposing of waste responsibly.“I would urge everyone to use this opportunity to have a good search around their property to ensure safe disposal of any potentially hazardous chemicals, including any unknown or unidentified items as they will be accepted for identification and correct disposal.”Items accepted as part of the Chemical CleanOut include paints, car and household batteries, smoke detectors, pesticides, gas bottles, fire extinguishers as well as fluorescent globes and tubes.Only household quantities are accepted.

From Monday 15 July, Central Coast Council will be undertaking smoke testing at Wamberal as part of its ‘Save Our Sewers’ campaign.Non-toxic smoke will be used to investigate possible stormwater and groundwater infiltration into the sewerage system, identifying any possible cracks or breaks, minimising risk and ensuring sewage is not able to leak into the environment.Council Acting Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said Council actively takes measures to ensure the continued high performance of the Coast’s essential infrastructure.“Smoke testing is an efficient and innovative way to identify any potential leaks in our sewer networks which could put us and the environment at risk,” Mr Loader said.“A non-toxic smoke is pumped into the network and then the area is monitored above ground for smoke discharge which could indicate a possible leak.“Residents and visitors may see Council’s non-toxic smoke discharging from manholes and sewer vent pipes around Wamberal.

An advertising campaign urging men to call out friends’ abusive behaviour towards women launches across the Central Coast this week.The campaign – called Enough Already – will roll out across billboards, bus shelters, bins and social media with a call to action to stop domestic violence.

Council are encouraging the community to participate in an online survey, online forum or attend a workshop to help guide the first Central Coast Council Skate Strategy.Council are developing a Skate Strategy that will provide a high level action plan with priorities to inform future development, upgrade and maintenance of skate facilities on the Central Coast to meet the needs of our community – now and in the future.Council has engaged a specialist consultant to develop the evidence-based skate strategy incorporating investigation and analysis of existing skateparks, current trends, relevant demographic data, existing and related strategies and the feedback and opinions gathered from community and stakeholders during these engagement activities.Council are committed to creating inclusive and accessible facilities which can be enjoyed by the whole community, and as such this skatepark strategy will include application of Universal Design principles to create an inclusive and welcoming facilities.Mayor Jane Smith said the community, as a whole, will benefit from skate facilities, not just the riders.“In addition to promoting healthy and active lifestyles, skateparks also activate and connect outdoor spaces and provide a safe purpose-built environment for riders,” Mayor Smith said“Skateparks also provide a boost to tourism as an attraction and through the hosting of regional and national skate events, as has been demonstrated with BATO Yard.“I encourage the community to have your say to ensure we develop a skate strategy that meets the needs of our community now and into the future.”The community can get involved in a number of ways!1) Attend one of the workshops being run across the Coast17 July, 10am-12 noon – Halekulani Community Hall18 July, 3pm-5pm – Tuggerah Library19 July, 2pm-4pm – PCYC Bateau Bay31 July, 6pm-8pm – Umina Surf Life Saving Club1 August, 6pm-8pm – Erina Centre2) Complete the online survey before 9 August – click here3) Join the conversation and participate in our online forum between 10 July and 9 AugustFor more information visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/skate-strategy

Following two weeks of improvement works, Erina Library has reopened its doors and unveiling its transformation to thousands of visitors.Mayor Jane Smith and Adam Crouch MP will be at Erina Library this Friday 12 July at 11am to celebrate the new look Erina Library and thank the community for their patience during the works.Central Coast Council Acting Unit Manager Libraries Learning and Education, Danielle Hargreaves said library staff have been overwhelmed with positive feedback on the mini makeover.“Customers will notice the change instantly, most notably, the two new dual level customer service points at the front of house,” Mrs Hargreaves said.“Like the recent upgrades at Toukley Library, the new counters deliver on Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to remove barriers to access to make our facilities and services inclusive for the whole community.“This is a prime example of how Council is incorporating the principles of Universal Design in its upgrades to facilities, which has made Erina Library more inviting and user friendly for all residents.“I would also like to thank the community for their patience and understanding while the Library was temporarily closed to make these improvement works possible.”Other improvements include new and increased number of public internet stations, more space for people to bring and charge their own devices, mobile shelving units, replacement of soft furnishing and study furniture, repainting the interior of the library and new carpet.Mayor Jane Smith said the refurbishment is a great example of what can be achieved when different levels of Government work together.“This considerable investment by Council and the State Government has brought a refreshed and exciting momentum to what is already Council’s most popular Library,” Mayor Smith said.“These improvements will help further cultivate a love of learning in our community.Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch MP said Erina Library is the busiest of all Central Coast libraries.“This funding has refreshed and modernised Erina Library’s facilities to continue to provide the very best for our community.

The temporary detour currently in place for the $1.36million Sohier Park bridge replacement project at Shirley Street, Ourimbah will be changed on Saturday 13 July 2019, 9am-5pm.The current detour via The Boulevard (through the University of Newcastle, Central Coast campus) will not be available on this day due to a scheduled athletics carnival at the University site.Only authorised traffic – buses, emergency vehicles and carnival participants – will be able to use The Boulevard during this time.The Shirley Street Bridge will be temporarily opened to traffic on Saturday 13 July, 9am-5pm with traffic control provided on site to manage a one lane traffic flow across the bridge.Coastal Rural Traders (CRT) at 8-10 Ourimbah Street, Ourimbah will be open on Saturday 13 July from 7.30am-1pm and will be accessible via Shirley Street Bridge.

Council adopts Coast’s first Climate Change PolicyCouncil has adopted its first Climate Change Policy, establishing a framework for the implementation of climate adaptation action for the entire Central Coast region.The Policy sets out Council’s position on climate change with a view to maximising the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the community and guides planning and development of the region’s resilience to climate change.The Policy also enables Council to align its operational and strategic planning with NSW State Policy to transition towards a net zero emissions region by 2050 and to accelerate actions on greenhouse gas emission reduction from Council operations.Mayor Jane Smith said she was pleased to see the Council adopt its first Climate Change Policy following extensive community consultation earlier this year.“Council has been developing this Policy since March 2018 and earlier this year undertook extensive community consultation which has led to a number of changes to improve the Policy and make it more meaningful for the community,” Mayor Smith said.“Key changes to the Policy in response to community feedback were to include a greater focus on the community, involving the community in ongoing adaptation planning alongside supporting community initiatives to deal with climate change.“The Policy will also provide guidance for the development of strategies on actions to respond to, adapt and build resilience to changing risks to the community, council assets, infrastructure and the environment.”Other key amendments to the Policy included clearly defining the purpose of the policy for the community as follows:Central Coast Council to provide leadership on climate changeto provide a framework for climate mitigation, adaptation and ongoing resilience for the Central Coast Region using a place-based approach;

Central Coast Council is preparing to start construction of a $1.64million project to replace two transport wharves in Davistown, one in Empire Bay and one in Spencer.Council Director Roads Transport Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the wharf replacement program was the most extensive Council had undertaken.“We are completely replacing four Central Coast wharves and using designs that will deliver significantly improved amenities and boost tourism,” Mr Bolgoff said.“On top of a new gangway and pilings, each of the wharves will have a floating pontoon installed and solar lighting.“Floating pontoons will improve accessibility for all boat users, including those accessing available ferry services, by providing a consistent access level at all tides.Mayor Jane Smith said amenities to use and enjoy the Central Coast’s numerous waterways are an integral part of life on the Coast.“You don’t have to travel far in our region before you reach one of our stunning waterways, many of which are equipped with a wharf,” Mayor Smith said.“Locals and visitors will flock to these fantastic upgraded wharves to enjoy transport services, boating activities, fishing and simply to relax and enjoy the exceptional beauty of our waterways.”Council’s $1.64million investment in the wharf replacement program includes $375,000 in Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) grant funding as part of the NSW Boating Now Program.The following wharves will be replaced as part of the current program:Davistown Road, Davistown (Central) – $590,000Amy Street, Davistown (Eulalia) – $340,000Kendall Road, Empire Bay – $370,000Wisemans Ferry Road, Spencer – $340,000The existing wharves will be removed shortly before each of the new facilities is installed.

The 19th annual Central Coast Country Music Festival is expected to attract approximately 12,000 visitors and locals for a weekend of boot scootin’ fun.Council Unit Manager Community Partnerships, Glenn Cannard said great music, a host of fun activities and the magnificent backdrop of The Entrance has established the festival as a Central Coast institution.“We will celebrate 19 years of the beloved Central Coast Country Music Festival, which kicks off in several venues across the Coast on Friday 9 August and Saturday 10 August, leading into our main event in Memorial Park, The Entrance on Sunday 11 August,” Mr Cannard said.“The longevity and success of this festival is due to its broad appeal – attendees include country music fans and music fans in general.

Central Coast Council has completed a vital section of new shared pathway at Carrack Road, Kincumber.Council Director Roads Transport Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the $995,000 pathway connects the Kincumber foreshore to Avoca Drive and forms part of the larger shared pathway network around Brisbane Water.    “This new 305 metre shared pathway links a beautiful section of the Kincumber foreshore and is sure to be popular with locals and tourists,” Mr Bolgoff said.“We have used a range of innovative techniques on this project including suspending the path in sections to minimise impact on the informal creek line.“Minimising environmental impact was a major focus – the use of precast concrete beams significantly reduced the need for excavation in this sensitive environment.”This project was fully funded with a grant from the NSW Government's Stronger Country Community Fund.Project elements also included new kerb and gutter, minor stormwater upgrades and road resurfacing.Mayor Jane Smith said the pathway provided a safe and scenic amenity for community members and visitors to the area.“Shared pathways facilitate an important alternative transport mode – this new pathway in Kincumber will allow safe walking and cycling to a number of important facilities and a view of our magnificent coastal open space system,” Mayor Smith said.“Expanding and maintaining our pathway network enhances the liveability and sustainability of the Central Coast and better connects local communities.“This project is a great example of delivering a great resource for our community and tourists whilst taking a range of measures to minimise and address environmental impact.”

Central Coast community members can enjoy improved access to Forresters Beach with the construction of new pedestrian access to the northern end of the beach complete.Central Coast Council recently completed the construction of a new tiered staircase to the beach (opposite Henrys Road), whilst an upgrade to existing emergency vehicular access now provides improved accessibility to the shoreline for emergency and Council vehicles.Mayor Jane Smith said the project delivers on Council’s commitment to increase ease of access and enjoyment of the Coast’s waterways and foreshores for the community.“The new pedestrian staircase allows our community to more easily enjoy one of our most beautiful and popular beaches on the Coast, ,” Mayor Smith said.“The new and upgraded works also allow for shoreline vehicle access in the event of an emergency, with the new staircase being a welcome improvement to what was previously considered unsuitable access for pedestrians.“Our community love and value our waterways and coastline and we want to ensure they are safe and easy to access.”Acting Manager of Waterways and Coastal Protection Luke Sulkowski said the staircase materials and design were selected to increase longevity and provide vantage points for community members to enjoy the outlook over Forresters Beach.“The staircase is constructed from fibreglass-reinforced plastic, which provides increased longevity, reduced maintenance and flexibility in design,” said Sulkowski.“The tiered design and bench seat also allows for some great vantage points for community members to enjoy the view or take photographs across the beach.”Construction works on the staircase and vehicular access commenced in February 2019.

Central Coast Council is working in close partnership with local police and community members to improve graffiti management across the region.Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said graffiti is an act of vandalism that should be reported directly to police and removed as quickly as possible.“Graffiti is a complex issue that requires Council, community members and the police to work together to deliver a multifaceted solution,” Ms Vaughan said.“Council is responsible for the removal of graffiti on our facilities and we encourage community members to notify Council if they observe graffiti on any of our properties.“It is the owner’s responsibility to remove graffiti from private property but Council can help by supplying a free graffiti removal kit.“The kits provide the chemicals and equipment needed to remove graffiti from your own property or, with permission, the properties of friends and neighbours.“Removing graffiti as quickly as possible not only makes the process easier but also reduces the likelihood that offenders will recommit.“The kits are one of many initiatives which help to reduce graffiti across the Coast.”Ms Vaughan said Council is currently preparing a Draft Central Coast Graffiti Management Strategy 2019 – 2022.“Later this year we will be inviting community members to provide feedback on the first Draft Graffiti Management Strategy for our region.”Senior Constable Bethany Hawker, Tuggerah Lakes Police, Crime Prevention Officer said reporting of graffiti as soon as it is sighted significantly increased the likelihood of catching offenders.“Graffiti is a crime and we encourage community members to report via the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, if their property has been vandalised through graffiti or if they observe graffiti in their area,” said Senior Constable Hawker.“Every piece of intel helps us to catch the vandals and reduce graffiti across the Coast.”Mayor Jane Smith said the community want to see effective management of graffiti on the Central Coast“Graffiti affects neighbourhood appearance, businesses and community confidence in the safety and security of public places,” Mayor Smith said.“Council is committed to working collaboratively and developing programs that will make a difference in stamping out graffiti.”Free graffiti removal kits are available from all Central Coast libraries and Council’s Gosford and Wyong customer service centres.