Central Coast Council has commenced work to redevelop Susan Fahey Park, Copacabana and construct an innovative district sized playspace which was designed from community consultation.Council’s Director of Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said this new inclusive playspace and redeveloped park will have something for everyone.“These improvement works and new playspace will enhance the features of the existing park creating an engaging hub for the community to meet, socialise and undertake play and recreational activities,” Mr Cox said.“The redeveloped community space will provide a wide variety of opportunities for a range of ages and abilities for both the local community and the high volume of seasonal visitors to the area.”The design includes:a concrete outdoor ping pong tablean outdoor chess tableadult fitness equipmentdrink bottle refill stationconnecting wheelchair accessible pathwaysaccessible BBQ’snew picnic shelter and tablesan inclusive play unitaccessible spinner, accessible see saw and unique rope swingthe existing basket swing which will be made more accessible for all to use with rubber softfall.

Like all of Australia the Central Coast has taken a hit due to COVID-19 but the region is also showing remarkable resilience.Key tourism measures have shown significant year-on-year spikes for the Central Coast in June and July and a number of new businesses have also emerged across the region.Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said the Coast had achieved impressive tourism numbers across winter.“Our region has moved from one emergency to the next in recent months so it is very heartening to see that the Coast continues to grow as a tourist destination of choice,” Ms Vaughan said.“Indicators for June and July show very positive signs for the Coast – for example AirBnB occupancies were up by approximately 20 percent compared to the same time period last year*.“Occupancy rates for our Holiday Parks were also up, along with retail and restaurant spending in our key tourist destinations.“Despite COVID we’ve also seen some exciting new businesses pop up across the Coast and a number of established businesses have undertaken makeovers.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said the appeal of the Coast and the resilience of the community are unparalleled.“It is wonderful to see tourism growing on the Coast despite incredibly challenging circumstances,” Mayor Matthews said.“Our region is hard to beat as a place to live, work and visit – stunning beaches, incredible bushwalks, picturesque hinterland, adventure activities, great locally produced food and cosmopolitan cafes and restaurants, bespoke shopping experiences – there’s something for everyone.“We’re encouraging all Central Coast businesses to ensure they have COVID-safe plans in place and for local community members to get out and about to discover some of the new gems our region has to offer and to rediscover old favourites.”‘Visit Central Coast’ have identified a number of exciting new places to explore across the region including:The Pecan Lady, Somersby – farmstay accommodationSlowwell, Ettalong – café and wellbeing practiceDaily Dough Co.

Council is reopening The Entrance Visitor Information Centre on Tuesdays – Saturdays from 11am – 3pm.

In the lead up to the coming bushfire and storm season, Central Coast Council is urging all residents to take proactive steps to better prepare themselves, their families and their homes for emergencies.Council are promoting Red Cross Emergency Preparedness Week, and the ‘Get Prepared’ app, as part of their ongoing emergency preparation and community resilience building ‘Get Ready Central Coast’ program.Council’s Acting Director of Connected Communities, Phil Cantillon said that the ‘Get Prepared’ app is an important tool that can help build community resilience to emergencies.“The Red Cross Get Prepared app has the ability to help build community capacity to prepare for disasters through the development of individual emergency plans,” Mr Cantillon said.“It will help residents understand what resilience means to them by providing small step by step actions to enable each household to develop a plan tailored to their needs, leading to a stronger community better able to respond to and adapt more readily to shocks and stresses.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said that Council encourages residents to download the ‘Get Prepared’ app and engage in their own emergency plan preparation.“With Covid-19 restrictions, it is going to be more important than ever that individual households understand their vulnerability to emergencies and are best prepared for them,” Mayor Matthews said.“The Red Cross Get Prepared app is not specific to any hazard, whether your property is vulnerable to fire, flood or storm, this app helps to guide in emergency planning and preparing, leading to faster responses to an emergency and quicker recovery.”Download the Red Cross Get Prepared app at getprepared.app.link/central-coast

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to have their say on the ongoing management of Central Coast Stadium.The Draft Central Coast Stadium Strategy will be placed on public exhibition until Monday 28 September for the community to provide feedback on the facility’s vision, purpose and strategic objectives as well as the value of a naming rights sponsor.Central Coast Stadium Manager, Kath Casey said the strategy aims to drive the future of the venue.“This important business strategy seeks to build on the economic, social, sporting and financial value of the Stadium, by providing a framework to enhance the Stadium as the major sporting and entertainment facility on the Central Coast,” Ms Casey said.“Council has developed a business strategy to ensure that the Stadium remains a significant and highly valued community asset and for it to continue to offer significant economic benefits to the region.“Our ambition is for the Stadium to continue to be an asset that our community are proud of and build on its current strengths to promote it as a premier venue across Australia and on an international level.“The Stadium offers many opportunities and has potential to attract and expand the events calendar to include new sporting and a wider scope of entertainment and events.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said Central Coast Stadium is an important community asset that delivers significant benefits for the region.“The Stadium is in one the best locations on the coast and is one of our most important and valuable community assets,” Mayor Matthews said.“For the past 20 years, it continues to be a focal point of community pride in our region and has hosted an impressive range of events.

Our Central Coast region is a hive of activity and lends itself to an array of opportunities for a healthy and active lifestyle for our residents of all ages.From pristine beaches to bushland walking and bike trails, parks and reserves, where the whole family from young and old can enjoy the outdoors.Council is committed to creating quality spaces for the benefit of our community and to attract visitors to our region.

The endangered eastern ospreys, who have taken up residence in a purpose-built home at Central Coast Stadium, are proud new parents with three chicks hatching overnight.The chicks were spotted by staff this morning and from all accounts are healthy and happy.The eastern ospreys have been living at Central Coast Stadium since 2014, but this is the second year they have been living in a platform built especially for them by Council staff.Stadium Manager, Kath Casey, said staff were thrilled to see the new chicks hatch showing they have taken to their new home.“They have really settled in now, and with their family growing, it is a real tick of approval for what we have done to help protect this threatened species,” Ms Casey said.“We love having them at the stadium and are thrilled to welcome these new additions to the osprey family.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said she was pleased to see that positive Council action had led to an increase in osprey numbers on the Central Coast.“We are actively helping increase the numbers of a threatened species which is not only great news for the osprey but for biodiversity in our region,” Mayor Matthews said.“We know the challenges of urbanisation and development are placing on our natural environment and this shows that we can be proactive and live side by side with our most precious of species.”We can all play our part in looking after our Ospreys by keeping the Central Coast’s waterways healthy.

Our Town Centres are important places for our community.

Over $111.373million in additional funding for the Central CoastCouncil’s proactive approach to sourcing additional revenue opportunities through grant funding, as well as the advocacy for State and Federal election commitments, has secured a total of $111,373,070 for the Central Coast community during the financial year 2019/20.These funds help support the delivery of Council services across numerous areas, with the below major categories to receive funding:Urban infrastructure - roads - $76.9MSport and recreation – sporting facilities - $8.63MUrban infrastructure - water & sewer - $6.85MEnvironment – coastal $6.02MEnvironment – emergency management - $5.02MUrban infrastructure – footpaths - $ 4.5MUrban infrastructure – other $ 2.77MMayor Lisa Matthews said Council has received grant funding from both the Australian ($92.02M) and NSW ($19.36M) Governments.“With the impacts of the bushfires and COVID-19, many grant programs have been postponed, however Council has continued advocacy for future funding on projects that are ‘shovel ready’ and could support our community’s recovery,” Mayor Matthews said.“There has also been a new Grant Finder tool that has already proved to be a valuable resource to support local businesses and community groups with more than 1,300 unique visitors and 272 registered users to the site since the launch in May.“Council is thankful to both the NSW and Australian Government for their support in funding which has enabled us to deliver vital projects in our region.

Central Coast Council has released a summary report on the implementation of the Tuggerah Lakes Estuary Management Plan (EMP), and the actions and achievements to date.The report reflects on the Estuary Management Plan in the lead up to a new Coastal Management Program for Tuggerah Lakes.Council Unit Manager of Environmental Management, Luke Sulkowski said that implementing the EMP has been an ongoing partnership between all levels of government, estuary and coastal management experts, and the community.“Since 2008 Council has spent $26.5 million in grants, with 86 of the 100 actions identified by the EMP completed or ongoing,” Mr Sulkowski said.“The EMP outlines a holistic and scientific approach to managing the estuary, with primary objectives focusing on protecting the estuaries’ water quality, plants and biodiversity, as well as meeting the social and economic needs of the community.“This summary report outlines the frameworks and objectives underlying Council’s management of Tuggerah Lakes, and goes into detail about how funding has been spent, and the key outcomes and achievements that have been delivered.“Looking forward, we will continue this work, and expand into the catchments of Budgewoi Lake and Lake Munmorah to achieve good outcomes there,” said Mr Sulkowski.The summary report provides an overview of the characteristics of Tuggerah Lakes estuary, the issues impacting it, and the actions Council has taken to protect the health of the lakes ecosystem and the immeasurable value it has to the Central Coast Community.The information in the report is also available via video on Council’s YouTube channel, offering an easy and accessible way to learn more about the Tuggerah Lakes system, key challenges and how Council is managing these challenges.View the summary report at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/tuggerahlakesestuary

Community members are invited to provide feedback on Central Coast Council’s Draft Graffiti Management Strategy 2021–2024, which sets out the approach Council will take in managing graffiti, in partnership with others, across the whole Central Coast.Developed by Council in partnership with local stakeholders, the draft strategy outlines five key priorities for graffiti management on the Coast:

Individuals or community groups interested in undertaking environmentally based projects are encouraged to apply for funding under the Protection of the Environment Trust (POET).The POET, established in 2006, promotes the protection and enhancement of the natural environment, and provides funding for environmental projects in the former Gosford City Council Local Government Area.Central Coast Council Mayor Lisa Matthews said a key purpose of the Trust was the conservation of Indigenous flora and fauna.“Our community values the natural environment of the Central Coast – it is what we are renowned for and a key priority for Council is ensuring the preservation of our environmental resources for future generations,” Mayor Matthews said.“Funding is now available through the Trust for individuals, community groups and organisations for the delivery of projects that enhance our natural environment.“If your project has an environmental focus and can demonstrate outcomes that promote and enhance the natural environment or provide information, education or research about a significant aspect of the natural environment then I encourage you to apply.”Projects that have previously received funding include bush regeneration to support the work of environmental volunteers working in the Coastal Open Space System and Natural Reserves, and an education program to develop and install Local Species Interpretive Signs for the Rumbalara Environmental Education Centre.Applications can be made until Friday, 31 May 2021 and will be assessed by the POET Committee when they meet during the next 12 months.

Central Coast Council has started the main construction phase of the $5.6million redevelopment of Woy Woy Town Centre Wharf.The largest wharf project ever undertaken by Council features a floating pontoon and promises to deliver substantial benefits for Woy Woy and the wider Central Coast community.Council Director Roads Transport Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the existing Commercial Wharf had been modified to ensure ferry services could continue as scheduled throughout construction of the new wharf.“The Commercial Wharf – which will operate as the main wharf amenity for the area as we build the new Woy Woy Town Centre Wharf – has undergone temporary modifications to ensure it is accessible for community members who use wheelchairs and other mobility aids,” Mr Bolgoff said.“It is very exciting to commence construction on this significant project which features a floating pontoon that will move with the varying tides and ensure access to ferry services and facilities in most tide and weather conditions.“Our new Woy Woy Town Centre Wharf will benefit commuters and community members who regularly use ferry services and will undoubtedly become a centre-piece and draw-card for Woy Woy Town Centre.“Accessibility for community members who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices has been a priority throughout the design process, with one of the added key features of the project being infrastructure to accommodate a wheelchair lifting facility on the pontoon for recreational boat users.”Design features of the new wharf and surrounds include:dedicated fishing area located on boardwalknew seating benches including smart benches with mobile phone charging capabilitybanner poleslandscaping including established salt water tolerant trees.Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the project received $3.99million from the NSW Government’s Regional Communities Development Fund and $1.61million  from Council.“The current jetty becomes submerged during king tides but the new pontoon wharf will rise with the tide to reduce disruption and improve disability access,” Mr Crouch said.“The new wharf is also capable of accommodating 35-metre vessels up to 250 tonnes, making it a significant asset to the Woy Woy community.“This is just one of numerous wharf upgrades – including at Davistown, Empire Bay, Spencer and South Tacoma – that the NSW Government and Central Coast Council are delivering together.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said the new Woy Woy Town Centre Wharf will become an iconic amenity for the Coast.“This flagship project is a great example of different levels of government working together to deliver for our region,” Mayor Matthews said.“The new Woy Woy Town Centre Wharf and surrounds will be functional and will help to make the Coast an even better place to live, work and visit.”Council is working closely with ferry services and nearby businesses and stakeholders to minimise impact during construction of this important project.Find out more information at www.yourvoiceourcoast.com/all-projects/woy-woy-town-centre-wharf-redevelopment

Community groups and not-for profit organisations can apply for up to $30,000 in funding for community projects in Summerland Point, Gwandalan, Chain Valley Bay and Mannering Park as part of a joint initiative between Central Coast Council and Delta Coal Pty Ltd.Council’s Community Partnerships Unit Manager, Glenn Cannard said the Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program aims to support organisations to deliver projects that improve community infrastructure and services in Chain Valley Bay and surrounding suburbs.“Since 2013, the Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program has provided funding to a range of local groups and organisations to improve and enhance the local community,” Mr Cannard said.“Past projects to receive funding include classroom laptops for Mannering Park Public School, Northern Lakes Neighbourhood Centre Cinema Under the Stars, the Mannering Parks Tidy Towns Group ‘Keep It Clean, Keep It Green’ initiative and a 3 Phase Converter for Manno Men’s Shed, to name just a few.“Projects that deliver social, cultural, economic or environmental benefits to communities in the four suburb areas are encouraged to apply.”Grant applications open on Monday 17 August and close on Friday 25 September 2020.Mayor Lisa Matthews said Council is pleased to be supporting local groups and initiatives in such a positive way.“Council is thrilled for these investments in our community.

Our youth are our future, the ‘Central Coast Youth Strategy’ highlights the importance Council places on empowering the youth of today.

Join us for the fourth online Innovation Breakfast about the 'Future of Cities'.

Council has built a new nature inspired playspace at Pinyari Close Reserve, Kincumber for local families to play and connect with their neighbours.The new local level playspace was designed to complement the surrounding nature reserve with ropes and natural timbers creating spaces for kids to climb, balance and use their imaginations.

The first region-wide draft Land Transaction Policy in now on public exhibition by Council for the community to view and submit comments.This draft policy is a consolidation of the former Gosford City Council’s Land and Property Transactions Policy and Wyong Shire Council’s Property Transactions – Sales and Acquisitions with other policies informing its development. Council’s Executive Manager of Innovation and Futures, Ricardo Martello said this important document will provide contemporary, clear and consistent guidelines for Council’s management of land transactions across the whole region.“The consolidated policy provides a framework for Council which will inform decision and directions regarding Council’s property portfolio in a consistent manner across the Local Government Area and in accordance with relevant legislation,” Mr Martello said.“The former Wyong Shire Council and the former Gosford City Council both had similar Land and Property transaction policies.

Central Coast Council has taken out a top honour at this year’s RH Dougherty Awards for its innovative Central Coast Waterways Report Card.The annual Awards, established in 1981 by Local Government NSW, highlight best-practice council communication and liaison with the communities they serve.Central Coast Council won the ‘Reporting to Your Community’ Award for its inaugural Central Coast Waterways Report Card, which aims to educate the community about the impacts of their actions on local waterways and foster pride in these important natural assets.Council’s Director of Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said Council is thrilled to be recognised for the program, which provides an important platform for sharing the story of waterway conservation with the community.“The Central Coast Waterways Report Card tells the story of waterway health in a language that is common to all of us and provides a tool to bridge the gap between science, management and community values,” Mr Cox said.“Our vision is that the Waterways Report Card continues to be a focal point in a long conversation with our community about waterway health and will be part of the driving force behind improvements which can only truly come about if we all work together.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said that Council is honoured to be recognised for this important initiative, which is the first of its kind on the Central Coast and sets a standard for best practices in community education across the state.“The Central Coast is known for its natural beauty - maintaining our natural assets is a critical component of what we value as a community,” said Mayor Matthews.“Our Environment and Planning Team is to be commended for their involvement in this project, which plays an important role in protecting our rich environmental heritage and casts a positive spotlight on our region.”Learn more about the initiative and view the Waterways Report Card 2017-2018 at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/waterwayhealth.

Council defers consideration of purchase of Davistown wetlandsCouncil has deferred consideration of the proposed withdrawal of negotiations to purchase land known as Davistown wetlands for twelve weeks.  Council’s CEO will continue to pursue an acquisition by agreement with the current owners of the Davistown wetlands and report back to Council by no later than 26 October 2020. Council responds to repeal of the Warnervale Airport Restrictions Act with new name and approachCentral Coast Airport at Warnervale has been renamed as the Warnervale Aircraft Landing Area (ALA) in response to the repeal of the Warnervale Airport Restrictions (WAR) Act.The NSW Government has recently confirmed it will repeal the WAR Act following an independent review that generated over 900 public submissions with 75% supporting the repeal. Council reaffirmed its ownership and management of the Warnervale ALA and that the runway length would remain at 1200 metres with no further extensions.Current maintenance works at the ALA will continue, however no new works will be permitted that expand its operations.Council will actively seek to generate employment opportunities on lands adjacent to the land strip with a focus on the following sectors: