With summer nearly upon us, residents and visitors are reminded of the importance of beach safety and swimming between the flags across the Central Coast.With the beach patrol season kicking off tomorrow, Saturday 29 September, Central Coast Council is encouraging beachgoers to be safe and take care, by following these simple safety tips:Only swim at patrolled beachesOnly swim between the red and yellow flagsRemember - if the lifeguards can’t see you, they can’t save youIf you do get into difficulty, remain calm, float and raise your arm to signal for help.Never swim if you’re feeling unwell or have been drinking alcoholRed and yellow flags indicate supervised and patrolled areasBlack and white flags indicate surf craft exclusion zonesMayor Jane Smith said it was important for beach goers to swim between the red and yellow flags and to understand the two main types of flags used on our patrolled beaches.“With an anticipated 3 million visitors using these patrolled beach locations throughout the beach season it’s necessary that people are advised about the importance of beach safety,” Mayor Smith said.“The red and yellow flags indicate areas patrolled by Council Beach Safety staff and Surf Life Saving members that are under observation for swimming.“To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, surfers and board riders are asked to remain outside of the black and white flags that are located next to the red and yellow flags.Council lifeguards patrol 15 beach locations from Monday to Friday, and the Grant McBride Baths at The Entrance, while Surf Life Saving members patrol 15 beach locations on the weekends and public holidays.In non-peak holiday times (29 September – 2 December and 2 February to 29 April) patrol hours across all beach locations are 9am-5pm.During the summer peak holiday period, from 3 December to 1 February, all locations will operate from 9am-6pm, with the exception of Umina, Avoca and Terrigal which will operate from 8am - 6pm.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the design of the Winney Bay Clifftop Walk that will lead from Captain Cook Lookout to Winney Bay Reserve.The draft concept plans for the $4.6million state government funded project were originally publicly exhibited by the former Gosford City Council in 2011, and incorporate a 3 metre-wide clifftop pathway, bridge and lookout.Mayor Jane Smith said that Council have listened to concerns and agreed to re-exhibit the plans to ensure the community could have a say in the final design of the iconic walkway.“In April, I attended a public meeting at Copacabana to discuss current and future plans for the walkway and it was clear that the community wanted more of a say with regards to this project,” Mayor Smith said.“The community wants to see these plans and have a say in the design and we will give them this opportunity.“Protecting and enhancing our natural environment is a key priority for Council as well as creating recreational and tourism opportunities.“I can assure residents that Council is already acting on these priorities, including commencing an environmental assessment for the project and developing a weed management and bush regeneration plan for the whole of the Winney Bay Reserve.“We also want to ensure that the project acknowledges the original inhabitants of the land in an appropriate manner by considering elements such as interpretive signage and the use of culturally significant endemic species.”Council will also be hosting a drop-in information session at Copacabana SLSC on Thursday 4 October from 3.30pm until 7.30pm.On 23 June 2018, the NSW government announced a $4.6 million grant to construct the part of the Winney Bay Cliff Top Walk between Captain Cook Lookout and the stairway.

Central Coast Council is moving forward with detailed designs for the Gosford Cultural Precinct (the Precinct) – creating an integrated cultural hub which will connect Gosford Regional Library & Innovation Hub (the Regional Library) and the Regional Performing Arts and Conference Centre (RPACC).The design includes final sites for both priority projects, which were selected following extensive research and analysis, as well as pedestrian linkages and undercover parking.Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said this is an excellent result for the community, as both the Regional Library and the RPACC are priority projects for Council to deliver.“There has long been an overwhelming need for us to provide multi-use facilities where our community can meet, relax, connect and learn,” Ms Vaughan said.“This decision will help us to meet the contemporary and future educational, conferencing, arts and cultural needs of the region, which have been constrained due to our current building sizes and limited capabilities.“Due to the need to accommodate different uses and functions, the Regional Library and the RPACC will be in separate buildings – however, their proximity has generated an opportunity to create the Precinct, connecting the two facilities and helping Gosford CBD flourish.“The next stage for this catalyst project will be to progress the development application.”Mayor Jane Smith said the Precinct will help achieve the Community Strategic Plan’s goal to create a growing and competitive region by establishing Gosford CBD as a key destination that attracts businesses, local residents, visitors and tourists.“Council will be creating an outstanding precinct that the Central Coast can be proud of, and will appeal to all ages, abilities and backgrounds,” Mayor Smith said.“The development of both the Regional Library and the RPACC is essential as Council works towards establishing a true capital for the Central Coast.“Delivering these projects as one integrated cultural precinct will benefit both projects individually, as well as facilitating the revitalisation of Gosford CBD and creating the vibrant and sustainable region the community want and deserve.“Furthermore, it is expected that the Precinct will have a positive economic impact on the region, with more than 1,450 jobs projected as a result of construction, plus an additional 645 jobs predicted once construction is complete.“Along with CEO Gary Murphy, I will now be seeking discussions with both State and Federal Government to assist with the funding shortfall of these much needed community projects.”In order to create this world-class cultural precinct there will need to be an acquisition of properties by Council.As such, the current estimated cost of the Precinct is to remain confidential in order to maintain commercial confidence and ensure the integrity of the market value.Ms Vaughan also took the opportunity to emphasise the development of the Gosford Regional Library is not dependent on the closure of any existing branches.“I want to reiterate that the development of Gosford Regional Library is not contingent on branches in the Peninsula, or elsewhere, being closed,” Ms Vaughan added.

Gosford Cultural Precinct is on the horizonCentral Coast Council is moving forward with detailed designs for the Gosford Cultural Precinct (the Precinct) – creating an integrated cultural hub which will connect Gosford Regional Library & Innovation Hub (the Regional Library) and the Regional Performing Arts and Conference Centre (RPACC).The design includes final sites for both priority projects, which were selected following extensive research and analysis, as well as pedestrian linkages and undercover parking.Please see separate Media Release for further details.Community to have say on Council’s management of community facilitiesCentral Coast Council has resolved to undertake a review of its management of community facilities and the issues raised by the community to put forward a model for the future.A working group of interested Councillors and relevant staff will be established to undertake a review of the use and management of community facilities.Mayor Jane Smith said the former Wyong and Gosford Councils had different approaches to management of community facilities and a consistent approach with community involvement was needed.“We acknowledge the community’s concerns around the management of the region’s community facilities and will be working together to develop a consistent and fair approach that meets the needs and expectations of our residents,” Mayor Smith said.“These facilities are used by a range of community groups, many of whom make an invaluable contribution to the Central Coast community.“We need to ensure community facilities are utilised in the best interests of our community now and in the future and we need this review to ensure that.”Central Coast Council owns 340 community facilities including community halls, community centres, community cottages, historic facilities, lifeguard towers, sports facilities, and recreation and aquatic centres.Council will receive a report on progress, key actions and milestones in February 2019.Council adopts new Code of Meeting Practice to deliver more efficient meetingsWith the aim to deliver more time-efficient and effective Council meetings, a public forum will be held before every meeting, and debate times will be limited, in a new Code of Meeting Practice adopted tonight.Members of the public will no longer address full meetings of Council – instead a public forum will be held at 6pm – before the meeting commences at 6:30pm – during which time registered community members will have three minutes to have their say.Members of the public will need to register with Council by 10am on the day of the meeting if they wish to speak on an item, and will have a maximum of three minutes to address the public forum.Council can also resolve to delay the start of the meeting by thirty minutes to accommodate more speakers and debate times, as well as extending the finishing time of a meeting, ensuring all forums and meetings have both structure and flexibility.Debate in Council meetings on individual items will be time-limited to thirty minutes which will assist in ensuring meetings end at the agreed meeting finishing time of 10.30pm.Mayor Jane Smith said the public had been consulted over the changes which make Council meetings more efficient and focused on decision-making.“We are committed to open and transparent decision-making in the best interests of our community, that has not changed,” Mayor Smith said.“Meetings are still too often exceeding the agreed finishing time of 10.30pm which is putting a strain on Councillors, staff and those members of the community interested in seeing our decision-making firsthand.“These changes will ensure we can strike the right balance between the community and Councillors having their say, while ensuring meetings are efficient and timely.”All changes comply with the Office of Local Government’s draft Code of Meeting Practice currently on consultation.Council to prepare for funding opportunities as elections approachIn the lead up to State and Federal elections, Council will take steps to ensure it is ready to submit priority projects for major funding opportunities.Council has resolved to engage with the Central Coast community in a constructive and bipartisan way to identify and prioritise key projects for funding submissions.As the third largest local government area in NSW, Central Coast Council will be in a strong position to submit a range of projects for State and Federal funding.Council will receive a report providing an update on funding opportunities.Council’s capital works projects on-trackThe majority of Council’s capital works projects are on schedule as at 31 August 2018, with a planned investment of over $199million in the 2018-19 financial year.Some of Council’s capital works projects include 574 roads and drainage projects, 61 open space and recreation projects, and 40 projects to enhance our natural and environmental assets.Mayor Jane Smith said Council’s significant capital works program spanned the Central Coast’s road network, water and sewer services, the local environment, community facilities, and open and recreation spaces.“Delivering our capital works program is an important part of our contract with the Central Coast community and we are on-track to deliver.”Council invested over $170million in capital works projects across the Central Coast in the 2017-18 financial year.Council seeks resolution for Woy Woy railway underpass developmentCouncil is calling on the State Government to develop a business case for a new railway underpass at Woy Woy to remove the need for the Rawson Road level crossing.Mayor Jane Smith said a railway underpass at this location would be safer and would reduce traffic congestion.“There are so many potential benefits of this project, most importantly improving safety for the many pedestrians and cyclists that pass through the Rawson Road level crossing every day,” Mayor Smith said.“Constructing an underpass would significantly reduce risk to the railway corridor and improve emergency evacuation routes during natural disaster events“Rawson Road is the main arterial link into and out of Woy Woy and this project would help to reduce traffic congestion and commuter travel times.“This is a priority project for the Peninsula that the State Government should prioritise and we are willing to collaborate to make that happen.”Council to look at local procurement policy for the Central CoastCouncil will investigate the steps required to develop a local procurement policy for the Central Coast with a view to adoption for the 2019-20 operational budget.The purpose of the policy would be to stimulate the Central Coast economy by encouraging the use of local labour, products and services to deliver Council services not directly delivered by Council staff.Mayor Jane Smith said the Central Coast offered products, services and skills that are of an exceptionally high standard.“Our local workforce, businesses and products are of an exceptionally high standard and this potential policy could help us ensure Council taps into our local resources as much as possible,” Mayor Smith said.Options to be considered include favouring local workers and businesses in the tendering processes through a weighting or ratio system.Council will also consider supporting a buy local campaign to encourage the Central Coast community to purchase local and products whenever possible.Council to support Inquiry into wasteCouncil will support a NSW Government Special Commission of Inquiry into the Mangrove Mountain and Spencer landfill and dump sites.Mayor Smith said the Inquiry is needed and Council is keen to support the process, which came out of the Upper House inquiry into waste.“A Commission of Inquiry would provide the answers to a number of questions relating to the Mangrove Mountain and Spencer landfill and dump sites,” Mayor Smith said.“How the sites are regulated and their operation should all be addressed, as well as why the Mangrove Mountain Landfill was approved in the first instance.“This is a priority issue for Council and one of the first things we did, following the election, was set up an Advisory Committee specifically to look at the Mangrove Mountain landfill site and the illegal dumping at Spencer.”Council has previously welcomed the recommendation for the inquiry and will now write to the relevant NSW Minister(s) and Shadow NSW Minister(s) and the NSW Upper House crossbench spokespersons on the environment to inform them of Council’s decision to support this Special Commission of Inquiry.Council report confirms busking locations for the Central CoastA report has confirmed that Council encourages busking at a range of community locations but this does not extend to footpaths within town centres.Council’s approach is outlined in the Central Coast Busking Policy and is consistent with the eight Councils analysed for the report.Mayor Jane Smith said Council actively encourages busking to bring colour and vibrancy to public spaces.“Busking can add so much life to a location and it is wonderful to see that this is a growing feature across the Central Coast,” Mayor Smith said.“Busking is actively encouraged and we would love to see the next big Australian music industry star get their start here on the Coast.“We do need to ensure the safety of both buskers and community members and this is why some locations and activities are not permitted under our policy.”Buskers need to obtain a Busking Approval Card for a small $20 fee, which provides coverage through Council’s public liability insurance.

Individuals and local groups interested in protecting the local environment are encouraged to apply for Protection of the Environment Trust grants program now open.The Protection of the Environment Trust was established in 2006, by the former Gosford City Council, to promote, protect and enhance the natural environment, in particular the conservation of flora and fauna indigenous to the Local Government area.Mayor Jane Smith said the feedback from the first ever Community Strategic Plan was clear that the community value the natural environment of the Coast and want to see it protected and the Trust was delivering on the promise.“We all love living here on the Coast because of the natural beauty of the environment and we can all play a part in ensuring it is protected into the future,” Mayor Smith said.“The grants available through the Trust are a great opportunity for local groups and individuals to make a positive different to the environment in their local area and I encourage those with an interest and passion to apply.”The grants program is open to community groups and organisations, incorporated associations, not-for-profit organisations, non-commercial cooperatives, education organisations and research organisations.Initiatives that have received funding in past rounds include fauna studies, pest management, education programs and bush regeneration activities.An appointed Management Committee, with community members and Council representatives, oversees the operation of the Trust.

Central Coast Council has started a new round of community consultation for $3.5million project to replace the sewerage system for over 100 properties on the southern bank of Wyong River in Tacoma South.Council Senior Manager, Water and Sewer, Bileen Nel said the new system was designed for the specific conditions of this location.“Water will periodically infiltrate any system at this location due to the high water-table and close proximity to Wyong River,” Ms Nel said.“The system we have chosen will significantly reduce the number of water infiltration incidents and their impact.“Should a problem occur with any of the systems, Council will be immediately notified by an alarm and will take the appropriate action to resolve the situation.Residents will have an opportunity for an at-home consultation session and will also be able to attend a Drop-in Information Session at the riverside reserve on South Tacoma Road on Saturday 22 September from 9.30am to 11.30am.The individual consultation and Drop-in Information Session are opportunities for residents to review the existing property design, re-assess the electrical equipment for any changes, ask questions, raise concerns, and discuss any potential changes before plans are finalised.There is a scheduled construction time-frame of early 2019 and more information is available at yourvoiceourcoast.com/tacoma-south-sewerage-upgrade.

Central Coast Council would like to thank the Central Coast community for their ongoing support for drought-affected farmers across NSW.Mayor Jane Smith said the generosity of the Central Coast community since the state-wide drought declaration has been truly remarkable.“The impact of this drought has touched all of our hearts and our community is doing so much to help,” Mayor Smith said.“From personal donations, to fundraising initiatives, to creating new groups – I want to thank the Central Coast community for all that you are doing and will continue to do to support our farmers.“I would also like to thank Council staff for their generosity, very recently the team donated over $900 to Buy a Bale and they will raise money for Aussie Helpers later this month.”Central Coast community members can help farmers through a range of channels including:Australian Red CrossRural Aid/ Buy a BaleDrought AngelsAussie HelpersLions Need for FeedFoundation for Rural and Regional RenewalSalvation ArmyCouncil is not affiliated with any of the organisations listed above and encourages community members to research their preferred method to assist drought-affected farmers should they wish to

Central Coast Council’s commitment to creating a vibrant active transport network has been outlined in comprehensive plans for the future of the region’s footpaths, bike paths and shared paths.A range of proposed pathway projects across the Central Coast are outlined in the draft Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) and Bike Plan, which are now on public display.Council Acting Director Assets, Infrastructure and Business, Boris Bolgoff said the plans will provide a platform to develop a high-quality, well-connected pathway network across the Central Coast.“We will develop existing pathways and create new infrastructure so that people of all ages and abilities can walk and cycle throughout the Central Coast using safe, inclusive and connected facilities,” Mr Bolgoff said.“Developing our active transport network emerged as a key theme for our community in our Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and it is certainly a high priority for Council.“To develop the draft PAMP and Bike Plan we gathered near record levels of community feedback, which we’ve listened to in developing the plans.”Mr Bolgoff said future projects would focus on completing missing links, creating routes that loop and connect the region’s scenic waterways, and providing increased connection between centres, recreation spaces and public transport.“We have a responsibility to ensure projects selected benefit a majority of Central Coast residents.“The finalisation of PAMP and the Bike Plan will guide our funding decisions in the future and build on the significant investment already underway, which includes $5.8million for shared pathways and footpaths this financial year.“High pedestrian activity areas will be a core focus for upcoming projects and we have created action plans for Gosford, Woy Woy, Wyong/Tuggerah and The Entrance.”Mayor Jane Smith said improving and expanding the Central Coast’s network of footpaths, bike paths and shared paths would bring multifaceted benefits to the region.“The liveability and sustainability of the Central Coast will be enhanced through a network of pathways that not only provide a means to get active and experience our beautiful environment but also offer a legitimate alternative transport mode,” Mayor Smith said.“Building important ‘missing links’ and creating the right mix of footpaths, bike paths and shared paths will also boost regional and economic development by encouraging tourism.”The PAMP and Bike Plan will be on public display from Thursday 13 September to Thursday 11 October and all Central Coast community members are encouraged to have their say by visiting yourvoiceourcoast.com.

Four Central Coast Council childcare centres have been named as finalists in the Early Childhood Education Week Awards, recognising their excellence in program development.Council Unit Manager Learning and Education, Beth Burgess, said having so many of Council’s childcare centres named as finalists recognised the strengths of each centre’s educators as well as the commitment of parents and carers.“This year the awards attracted more than 400 nominations across the state, so it is a real testament to our educators and the quality of our programs that we have been nominated for 15 awards,” Mrs Burgess said.“We place a strong emphasis on developing strong connections in our community and a sense of belonging for the benefit of children and their families.“The awards are a great opportunity to showcase what we are doing well and also enable us to measure the success of our programs so we can continually improve on what we provide to families.“Special mention goes to Linda Handel from our Toukley Centre whose dedication to inspire those around her has been acknowledged with a nomination for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual.”During July’s Early Childhood Education Week, all four centres provided a range of experiences for children and their families, which were part of the award process.The centres are finalists in the following areas:Major awardsBest Multicultural Program – Kariong and KanwalBest Sustainability Program - KanwalBest Program highlighting Inclusivity Practices – KariongTheme awardsChildren are Connected and Contribute to their World – Kariong and KanwalChildren have a Strong Sense of Wellbeing – WyongChildren are Effective Communicators - WyongChildren engage in Play-Based Education - ToukleyKeeping Children Healthy & Safe - WyongThe Physical Environment where Children Learn & Play - ToukleyEncouraging Children’s Learning & Development - ToukleyFamilies & Communities Uniting - ToukleyIncorporating Sustainability Practices - KanwalPlay and transition to school - ToukleyInclusive practice - everyone is welcome – Kariong and Kanwal.Team and Individual AwardsOutstanding Contribution by an Individual – Toukley – Linda Handel.The award winners will be announced on Thursday 27 October 2018.

Central Coast Library Service is calling on aspiring writers and rhymesters to enter the first Poetry Writing Competition for Council, which opens for entries today.The competition, which replaces the Short Story Competition, provides an incredible platform for budding poets to be discovered and have their efforts publicly recognised.Council Acting Unit Manager Libraries, Beth Burgess said this was one of the many ways the Library Service helped to strengthen the sense of belonging in the community.“This competition provides a fantastic opportunity to create connections, participate in community life and let your talent light shine,” Mrs Burgess said.“We will be hosting a number of poetry workshops during October to assist hopeful entrants develop their language, characterisation, structure and dialogue skills, in order to build confidence and improve their writing.“We love that we can help boost the profile of creative writing across the Coast while simultaneously helping to improve reading and writing skills in our community.“You never know how good you are until you try, so I encourage all aspiring poets out there to tell their story in verse and give it a red hot go!”The divisions this year are junior (9-12 years), youth (13-16 years) and open (17+ years), with the winners of each division receiving a $200 gift card and writing gift pack to encourage a continued love of writing and further develop their skills.Winning entries will also be displayed in the Central Coast community on World Poetry Day 21 March, 2019.With 2018 being the Year of Lifelong Learning, Mrs Burgess added the competition helps individuals take an active approach to learning.“Learning is lifelong and lifewide – it is flexible, can be formal or informal, goes well beyond formal education and doesn’t stop no matter your age,” Mrs Burgess said.“We are committed to creating dynamic learning environments that inspire lifelong learning and support an improved quality of life to help our customers connect, discover and create.“This is exactly what our Poetry Writing Competition delivers, while building upon our existing active and flexible programs that help support our community’s education, learning and recreational needs.“With more opportunities than ever, I would urge everyone to become a member of our Library Service and take advantage of the amazing resources and services available.“It’s free and lasts a lifetime!”The Poetry Writing Competition 2018 is open to current library members and residents of the Central Coast.

Central Coast Council is encouraging the community to be a good sport by donating pre-loved sports goods at SportsFest this year – and has appointed the not-for-profit organisation Fair Game Australia to manage the collection and distribution of all donations.Mayor Jane Smith said there are barriers to participation in sport and recreation in many parts of our community on the Central Coast.“Living a healthy and active lifestyle doesn’t come easy to all of us,” Mayor Smith said.

Local university students have a rare opportunity to gain practical work skills as part of Central Coast Council’s 2019 scholarship program.The annual program will provide four first or second-year university students with an outstanding opportunity to combine study with paid employment with one of the Coast’s largest organisations.Council’s Executive Manager People and Culture, Kellie Reeves, said Council is looking for bright, talented and enthusiastic students who want to gain local workforce experience.“This program is designed to encourage participation in undergraduate studies by offering scholarship opportunities exclusively to our local students who are looking for a step up into their career,” Ms Reeves said.“Currently, only 14% of Central Coast residents have a bachelor or higher university degree.

Coast Council has further investigated the exposed concrete stairs at Terrigal Beach and will now remove some of the stairs as soon as possible.The stairs have been on the southern end of the beach since a storm in the 1930s and are usually covered through natural sand replenishment.Council is currently contacting earth moving operators to find the appropriate machinery to safely remove the stairs which will also require a part closure of the beach.

Talented artists from all across Australia have competed for $24,000 in prizemoney, with Sydney artist Stephanie Monteith announced the winner of the 2018 Gosford Art Prize.Local artist Keiko Matsui took out first place in the Gosford Ceramics Prize, which saw more entries than ever before, showing the resurgence in contemporary ceramics throughout Australia.Central Coast Council Team Leader Art Galleries, Arts and Culture, Tim Braham said there were 525 entries with 146 artworks chosen as finalists for the exhibition.“The Gosford Art Prize has strong recognition within the arts community and by holding this prestigious annual competition here on the Coast, local artists have the opportunity to be judged and appreciated on a national stage in friendly competition with Australia’s most talented artists,” Mr Braham said.“Approximately 53% of the finalists come from the Central Coast, which shows the depth of our local talent.“We were impressed by the high standard and huge diversity of the artworks received.

An action-packed, adrenaline-pumping line up of exhibitors has been secured for this year’s SportsFest, with the program showcasing a variety of Central Coast sport and recreational opportunities.This family-friendly event, being held 22-23 September from 10am-5pm at EDSACC Bateau Bay, will provide information about something for everyone’s sporting taste – from the water to the court, from traditional to the more obscure and everything in between.Central Coast Council Unit Manager, Open Space and Recreation, Brett Sherar said the aim of the SportsFest’s program is to encourage attendees to learn about and experience a range of sports.“This year, SportsFest participants will be able to watch demonstrations on an exciting range of sports, from scooters and skating, through to gridiron and wheelchair sports,” Mr Sherar said.“For those who like to get some hands-on experience, they can try out a myriad of sports, including dragon boating, circus skills, archery, croquet and table tennis – there’s even high rock climbing for all ages.“Festival-goers can also listen and hear from sporting groups, and buy some great sport-related products from exhibitor and retail stalls.”Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in casual clothes and runners so they can get involved in the free ‘Come ‘n Try’ sessions.SportsFest’s proud partnerships include NSW Office of Sport, Sport NSW, Central Coast Academy of Sport and official media partners, Star 104.5 FM.Download the events program at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/SportsFest and stay up to date with SportsFest announcements at facebook.com/SportsFestCentralCoast

Central Coast Council is playing their part to help residents wage their own war on waste with more of the popular Green Living Workshops on offer to reduce, reuse and recycle around the home.The workshops provide participants with practical and hands-on advice for sustainable living by helping to repurpose food waste, live chemical free and move towards a no waste household.Mayor Jane Smith said these workshops were a key outcome of the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) Green theme to provide ongoing education opportunities for the community.“Education is a crucial component of our focus area to protect our environmental resources for the future,” Mayor Smith said.“Many of the ways residents can help care for our natural environment starts at home, and these Green Living Workshops provide an excellent first step in the right direction.“With food waste still accounting for over forty percent of general household waste and adding substantially to our carbon emissions, we all have a role to play in reducing the amount of household food waste sent to landfill.”Each household that attends a composting and worm farming workshops will receive a free worm farm or compost bin so they can get started straight away.Council Unit Manager Learning and Education, Beth Burgess, said with the impacts of single use plastic becoming more prevalent, increasing numbers of residents were looking to reduce the amount of waste they are generating.“With the abundance of information at our fingertips, challenging yourself to lead a more sustainable lifestyle can at times be confusing,” Mrs Burgess said.“If you have ever wondered about the suitability and benefits of attending a workshop, the results speak for themselves, with the average attendee’s knowledge on the subject more than doubling, and satisfaction of the workshops at over 90 percent.“There are only a handful of events scheduled for the remainder of the year, so I would encourage anyone interested to reserve their seats as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.“Our special events for children aged five to 15 will be on offer as part of the Spring school holidays program, providing a fun and accessible way to educate children on the importance of sustainability around the home.“The information helps instil habits from an early age to reduce and recycle food waste by turning it into a great resource for the garden as well as educating those around them.”As spaces are limited bookings are essential and can be made online via centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/events or call 4350 8175 to reserve your spot.Workshop scheduleTuesday 25 September at Green Point Community CentreNo Dig Garden, 9.30am-12pmBeeswax Wrap Making and Sustainable Food Workshop, 12.30-3pmWednesday 26 September at Tuggerah LibraryComposting and Worm Farming, 9.30am-12pmNo Waste Household, 12.30-3pmSaturday 20 October at Point Clare Community SchoolComposting and Worm Farming, 9.30am-12pmOrganic Gardening Workshop, 12-2.30pmTuesday 23 October at Erina LibraryKeeping Backyard Chickens, 9-11.30amBeeswax Wrap Making and Sustainable Food Workshop, 12-2.30pmWednesday 24 October at Buttonderry Waste Management FacilityComposting and Worm Farming, 9-11.30amNo Waste Household, 12-2.30pmInformation on school holiday events can be found at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/schoolholidays

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.