Central Coast Council is excited to announce the return of Battle of the Bands, offering young musicians the chance to compete for stardom and prizes.

The Central Coast came alive over the June long weekend, with the Harvest Festival, once again attracting thousands of visitors, and injecting millions of dollars into the local economy.Over two glorious days, this year’s Festival provided a unique experience with over 30 event hubs offering an authentic glimpse behind the farm gate and delivering a vibrant celebration of local produce, entertainment, and fun.Central Coast Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said visitors were able to explore nine picturesque rural communities and their heritage villages, including Dooralong, Jilliby, Yarramalong, Wyong Creek, Kulnura, Mangrove Mountain, Peats Ridge, Somersby, and Spencer."Once again the Harvest Festival truly had something for everyone, from farm-to-table dining and 'pick your own' adventures, to nursery tours, food and beverage tastings, workshops, farm tours, and live music," Ms.

Central Coast Council has commenced a series of essential maintenance works across six skate parks throughout the region, including BATO Yard (Bateau Bay), Wadalba Skate Park, Picnic Point Skate Park (The Entrance), Banjo’s Skate Park (Terrigal), Narara Skate Park and Kariong Skate Park.Council Director Community Services and Recreation, Melanie Smith said these works aim to ensure the safety and longevity of these popular community facilities for skaters of all ages and abilities.“The works are scheduled to progressively roll out until July 2024 (weather permitting), and will require short-term closures at each location while works are underway,” Ms Smith said.“The scope of the project will vary depending on the specific needs of each skate park. “Some examples of planned work include resurfacing ramps and bowls, repairing cracks and damaged concrete, replacing worn equipment like basketball hoops and nets, and applying fresh paint and coatings.”The schedule (weather permitting), with temporary closures whilst works are underway, is:•    Narara Skate Park – works anticipated to commence 13 June - 18 June •    Banjo’s Skate Park (Terrigal), works anticipated to commence 17 June - 21 June•    Kariong Skate Park – works anticipated to commence 24 June - 28 June•    The Entrance Skate Park (Picnic Point), works are underway and due for completion at the end of June.•    Wadalba Skate Park - works are underway and expected to be completed around June 21•    Bato Yard - Skate Park completion 14 June, however the Basketball court will be closed until 20 June Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart emphasised the importance of the skate parks to the community and the benefits of these maintenance projects.“These skate parks are well loved by our community and these essential maintenance works will ensure they remain safe and enjoyable for everyone to use,” Mr Hart said. “Council is committed to providing quality recreational facilities for our residents, and these upgrades will help to extend the lifespan of these skate parks for many years to come.“By investing in these essential works, we can ensure that these community hubs continue to provide a safe and positive space for people of all ages and skills to enjoy skateboarding, BMX riding, scootering and rollerblading.”For the latest information on these temporary closures and specific works being undertaken at each skatepark, search ‘skate park works’ at www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.auTo view details of the 25 Council managed skates parks on the Central Coast, search ‘skate parks’ at www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.auENDS 

Central Coast Council’s project ‘The Rough Story’:

The 2023-24 Central Coast beach patrol season officially concluded on Sunday 28 April 2024, with teams from Central Coast Council and Surf Life Saving Central Coast ensuring the safety of millions of beachgoers.Over 3.7 million visits were recorded across the Coast's 15 patrolled beaches during the season.

Central Coast Council are undertaking a review of Alcohol-Free Zones across the region, and is proposing to re-establish existing Alcohol-Free Zones, with proposed locations on public exhibition for a period of 30 days. If warranted, new locations may be considered and approved for implementation.

MEDIA RELEASECentral Coast Council’s Local Housing Strategy seeks to implement a number of strategies and actions to better manage housing supply across the region.

Central Coast Council is excited to introduce the Street Design Guideline (Guideline) and Landscape Works Specifications, a comprehensive framework designed to transform the design and development of streets and civic spaces across our towns and neighbourhoods.The draft Guideline, which was on exhibition for community feedback, was adopted at Council’s Ordinary May meeting, and lays out both the visionary and technical criteria necessary to create greener, safer, and healthier streets throughout the Central Coast.Council Acting Director Environment and Planning, Luke Sulkowski, said well-designed streets can create a strong sense of place and strengthen the bonds within our neighbourhoods and towns.“Community feedback on the draft Guideline, indicated support for vegetated, shaded streetscapes, more seating and designs that safely cater for the rise in alternative modes of transport.“Streets form a significant part of urban public spaces and play multiple roles beyond providing transportation routes.

Central Coast Council continues to undertake maintenance and infrastructure upgrades across its vast water and sewer network as it moves into year three of Council’s four-year Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) Determination.Council’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading infrastructure across the network is critical to the ongoing efforts in ensuring the Central Coast community has access to reliable and high-quality water services.From 1 July 2024 the combined yearly bill for a typical household will increase by approximately 11.9%, or $168.03 for water, sewerage, and stormwater services (based on 170 kilolitres of water usage per year).

Central Coast Council has partnered with twenty-two eateries to deliver two delectable community events - the Taste of Wyong, Wyong Town Park on Saturday 8 June, and the Taste of Toukley, in the Toukley Village Green on Saturday 22 June 2024.Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said both these events are designed to promote the fantastic array of local food offerings from local businesses and will offer a sensory experience for everyone.“Each location will also have family friendly activities including workshops, craft activities, a petting zoo, circus play, roving performers, along with live entertainment and more.“To support local businesses, I invite everyone in our community to bring along your family and friends and enjoy the wonderful Taste of Wyong and Taste of Toukley events,” Ms Smith said.A limited number of tasting boxes will be available (while stocks last) to purchase at each event from the Central Coast Council information stalls.

Central Coast Council proudly congratulates the Central Coast Mariners on their triumphant victory in the Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final. The Mariners’ journey to the championship has captivated and inspired the entire region, showcasing the team's resilience, dedication, and exemplary sportsmanship.This victory marks a historic achievement for the Mariners, as they have not only reached the pinnacle of Australian football including winning back-to-back grand finals but have also brought immense pride and joy to the Central Coast community. Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart praised the Mariners for their exceptional season and remarkable Grand Final win against Melbourne Victory, saying their unwavering determination and outstanding performance throughout the season has cemented their place in the hearts of fans and has highlighted the unifying power of sport.“We are immensely proud of their achievements, including securing the Asian Football Cup and the way they have represented the Central Coast on the national and international stage.”Mr Hart said the Central Coast Mariners’ success has ignited a wave of excitement and celebration across the region. “They have won the Treble, which has never been achieved in Australia in either the men’s and women’s competition and have shown what can be achieved through commitment and a strong sense of community spirit,” Mr Hart said.“The 20,059 supporters in attendance at the game, and the fantastic crowd at our Grand Final Live Site on Saturday night highlighted the unifying power of sport. “Council continues to look forward to continuing to support the Mariners and celebrating their future successes.”ENDS 

Central Coast Council Water and Sewer are continuing to work with contractors to complete an extensive works program, ensuring reliable water and sewer infrastructure in the Gosford CBD that meets the needs of the community, now and in the future. Works will be commencing next week to install a new sewer main along Henry Parry Drive, Gosford.

The Central Coast Mariners have once again captured the hearts of fans as they bring the Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final to Gosford for the first time.

The Spencer community will be soon enjoying an upgraded playspace in Spencer Waterfront precinct thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Australian Government’s Investing in our Communities (IiOC) grant and $45,000 from Central Coast Council.Central Coast Council Director of Community and Recreation Services Mel Smith said the current playground currently features only a swing set and picnic table.“With the upgrade, the community will be able to enjoy play equipment including a swing set, climbing and slide unit, rocker, rubber softfall and picnic table."Installation of the equipment will commence the end of June or early July with the aim for the works to be completed in late July (weather permitting)," Ms Smith said.Local resident, Community Liaison Officer and co-founder of the community group River Cares, Robyn Downham, said it is fantastic that the new playground will offer multiple activities for a range of ages and abilities as well as attracting, connecting and helping children to play and socialise. “The upgrade of the Spencer playground will help to promote community connectivity and will help to bring families, visitors and tourists to our beautiful shores. “River Cares have been campaigning for an improved playground since the Spencer Public Toilets were completed in January 2023 and so we thank both the Australian Government and Council for now making this happen,” Ms Downham said.Council Administrator Rik Hart said that the upgrade is part of Council’s overall strategy to see enhanced playspaces across the Central Coast. “I am delighted to see the existing Spencer waterfront playspace receive a much needed upgrade. “This is one of over 260 public playspaces in parks, reserves, holiday/caravan parks and community centres. As the Central Coast community grows, it is important that Council continues to provide young families and children with safe environments to engage in play-based learning,” Mr Hart said.“We thank the Australian Government for their support of this project.”The Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid said he is pleased to see the Australian Government partner with Central Coast Council to undertake an upgrade of the playground at Spencer.“This upgrade will update equipment and bring the playspace up to standard.“I thank the community of Spencer and surrounding communities for their advocacy," Dr Reid said.Council reminds visitors to the area that there will be no access to the playspace while the installation of the new equipment and associated construction is underway.ENDS

The Central Coast will benefit from the NSW Government’s introduction of landmark environmental reforms that ensure NSW has the strongest environmental regulations of any state or territory in Australia.Central Coast Council’s Acting Director Environment and Planning Luke Sulkowski, said the reforms to existing legislation are welcomed, agreeing an overhaul and tougher penalties were needed.“The reforms address critical loopholes in environmental legislation and ensures the NSW Environment Protection Authority and Council, as co-regulators under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act), have stronger powers to deter environmental crimes and respond faster to pollution incidents.“It means that Council can take a tougher stance on environmental crimes, including being able to issue much higher on-the-spot fines for a range of offences including pollution offences and failing to comply with lawful directions and orders.“For example, the on-the-spot fine amount for the pollution of waters was previously $4000 for an individual and $8000 for a corporation.“The same offence now carries a monetary penalty of $15,000 for an individual and $30,000 for a corporation for a first offence, and $22,500 for an individual and $45,000 for a corporation for another offence.“The same new monetary penalties apply to individuals and corporations who fail to comply with directions and orders issued under the POEO Act to remedy environmental nuisances and pollution.” Mr Sulkowski said.The NSW Government has also raised other common offences, including fines for littering small items in public places which will double to $160.Public land managers such as councils will have authority to issue illegal dumping fines of $5,000 to companies and $1,000 to individuals, increasing to $10,000 for corporations and $2,500 for individuals if the dumping occurs in sensitive places like a school, hospital or national park.Council Administrator Rik Hart applauded the NSW Government for introducing the tougher penalties and urges the community and businesses to know that Council will be implementing them in an effort to protect the Central Coast environment and community.“We live in an amazing environment on the Central Coast, and with the stronger legislation and higher fines, I hope that individuals and organisations will think twice before they commit an environmental offence.”For more information visit:https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/news/landmark-environmental-reforms-pass-nsw-parliamenthttps://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/news/media-releases/2024/epamedia240321-landmark-environmental-reforms-pass-nsw-parliament ENDS 

MEDIA RELEASE Central Coast Council and local police have partnered up again to reduce casualties from speed related crashes on local roads through an education and awareness campaign during May.

Niagara Park Stadium is set to be transformed into a first-class sporting venue, with upgrade works underway to improve accessibility of the venue ahead of welcoming a full calendar year of regional and state championships. The venue will host major events featuring Netball NSW Regional League, Drill dance NSW State Titles, Northern NSW Futsal Regional Schools Championships, Australian Tai Chi Masters Tournament, Table tennis NSW Country Championships, Football NSW Regional Schools Knockout, Basketball NSW Country Championships, Basketball NSW NEJL Tournament, Netball NSW Premier League games, Australian Highland Dance Festival, Central Coast Crystal Festival and Table Tennis NSW City v Country.The $2.8 million project has received $850,000 from the NSW Government Stronger Country Community Fund, with Council funding the remaining contribution of $1,950,000 from planned capital expenditure.Council Director of Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said funding for the upgrades is a fantastic outcome and one to celebrate. “Council undertook community consultation to inform the design and construction of the venue, which will result in an accessible modern facility, improving what was previously in place.“Niagara Park Stadium is a regional indoor sporting complex, and its facilities are widely used by schools, local patrons, sporting clubs, regional and state junior sporting organisations. “The facility is primarily used for basketball, netball, roller hockey and many other indoor sports.

The construction for the replacement of Soldiers Beach northern stairs and vehicle access ramp have commenced today, 29 April 2024, and are expected to be complete by September 2024, subject to weather.These works are the last of the four projects to be undertaken following $2.44 million in funding received from the Australian and NSW Governments as part of the 2021 Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Program with additional contributions from Central Coast Council to improve access for Soldiers Beach and Jenny Dixon Beach.Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said Soldiers Beach is a popular spot for locals, and repairing the northern stairs and vehicle ramp access is an important project to ensure they can continue to use this community asset.“We know public spaces, like beaches, are not only enjoyed by everyone in the community but also visitors, and this co-funded program is ensuring that damaged community infrastructure is being repaired so it can be accessed for many years to come.”Council Acting Director Environment and Planning, Luke Sulkowski said Council is pleased to be reaching the final milestone of the four projects.“Replacement of the northern stairs and the vehicle access ramp have been long awaited by the community.

Central Coast beach patrol season comes to an official close on Sunday 28 April 2024.

Central Coast Council is inviting residents of all ages and backgrounds to fill in a Community Wellbeing survey, to help understand the community’s perception of their own wellbeing and quality of life here on the Central Coast.The survey is open until 10 May on Council’s online community engagement hub Your Voice Our Coast, yourvoiceourcoast.com/wellbeingCouncil Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said this survey will help Council drive strategic solutions to improve and support the local community’s wellbeing.