Independent candidate for Robertson at the May 3 Federal election addressed an on-site hearing of the Land and Environment Court on April 7 regarding a proposed development at 5 The Avenue The development has long been the cause of controversy An application for a six-lot subdivision within Mount Penang Parklands was rejected by the Local Planning Panel in November 2023 It had been referred to the Panel after 88 submissions were received by Central Coast Council The matter is now before the Land and Environment Court with developer Parklands Kariong Development Pty Ltd taking on Council Bellamy was one of a group of concerned residents to attend the on-site hearing Speaking on behalf of the Kariong Progress Association Bellamy told the court the group opposed the proposed commercial development due to serious environmental “We want to make it clear; we are not opposed to development,” she said “We welcome proposals that are compatible with the Central Coast Local Environmental Plan (LEP) support the surrounding educational precinct and enhance the unique character of the area “Instead of fast-food outlets and tyre shops we would like to see a medical or allied health centre sports or physiotherapy facilities to support the nearby sports college environmentally sustainable and low-impact businesses that complement eco-tourism or affordable housing and mixed-use developments that address homelessness and support vulnerable community members.” Bellamy told the court the region’s youth deserve opportunities that foster their health “Fast-food outlets do not serve the needs of our youth; they contribute little to building a healthy active lifestyle and offer minimal career pathways,” she said “What we need are developments that provide meaningful long-term opportunities for our children—whether that’s through sports Bellamy said the proposed development could see significant tree loss and biodiversity impacts increased traffic congestion on the Central Coast Hwy incompatibility with nearby schools and educational precincts damage to the area’s reputation as an eco-tourism destination and visual and cultural degradation at the gateway to the Central Coast “The proposal includes three fast-food outlets,” she said “While some locals rightly point out the need for employment these businesses typically offer a limited number of part-time or casual positions “We believe Kariong deserves better – high-quality meaningful employment that reflects the talents and aspirations of our community “We also urge all levels of government to reflect on priorities: should we be approving developments that benefit large multinationals when local families face housing insecurity “We would like to be part of a future that meets real local needs.” Bellamy said the proposal contradicts the Central Coast Local Environmental Plan and disregards previously endorsed traffic planning “It also fails to align with the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036 and place-based planning that supports community identity and wellbeing,” she said Thank you Lisa and the locals who are talking common sense We need healthy community based development on the Coast and for our kids This development proposal is so damaging for the Central Coast with Kariong as our gateway- we could do so much better Well presented and explained Lisa thank you and let’s all hope that the “powers that be “ listen to the community.🙏 Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id" "a1fefcbb889a12d8cade3a5ab6691881" );document.getElementById("efb1a04fa5").setAttribute( "id" I travel on the new trains daily from Woy Woy to Central and vice versa I love the new trains apart from (the fact) they are absolutely freezing Ettalong Memorial Bowling Club in Springwood St have both submitted revised plans to Central Coast Council for significant improvements… Humpty Dumpty Foundation has sprung into action to help Central Coast Local Health District provide seven breast pumps for its midwifery and Aboriginal health services For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link] We responded to over 150,000 incidents in 2023-24 The incidents displayed below are note-worthy incidents that have been published as media releases or tweets Details about incidents may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice North Parramatta | The fire at Dunlop Street, North Parramatta has been contained but is expected to smoulder through the morning. Because there may be smoke in the area, residents and businesses in the vicinity are advised to keep doors, windows, and vents closed. View on X [external link] Fire and Rescue NSW acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders The NSW Ombudsman is investigating claims that the Department of Housing and Industry (DPHI) published misinformation on its website regarding a controversial development at Kariong Community group Coast Environmental Alliance (CEA) and Traditional Custodians have been campaigning to stop a housing development planned by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) on the site due to the ecological and cultural values of the area The group recently took aim at the Department claiming that information on the public planning website was “dishonest deliberately misleading and blatantly supporting the developer” said the fact that the department was now under investigation was very much welcomed by the group “The Ombudsman’s office has assessed our complaint about the information on the Planning Department’s public website and has determined that inquiries with the Department are ‘warranted’,” she said CEA contends that the Frequently Asked Questions section on the government Planning website has misrepresented the true scope of the development’s impact downplaying potential risks to the environment These concerns are amplified by the recent proposal to amend legislation to “combat misinformation and disinformation” which aims to prevent the dissemination of falsehoods on digital platforms that could cause harm CEA says the alleged misleading information on the government website fits precisely into the kind of harmful misinformation that the Bill is designed to address Biodiversity spokesperson for CEA and managing director of a marina at Brooklyn said the development would have a devastating far-reaching and permanent impact on endangered wetlands which were essential to the health of the fishing and oyster industries in Brisbane Water “The plan outlines its intention to use the wetlands as stormwater detention areas something that CEA plans on taking up with the Fisheries Department and other relevant authorities,” he said “As a young local with a strong interest in the future of our area I can’t believe I’m having to take on the government to simply adhere to their own environmental protections It’s nearly incomprehensible that an Indigenous organisation such as DLALC is pushing such an extremely destructive development and right next to a known and registered sacred Aboriginal site.” Ertl said the group was awaiting the outcome of the rezoning proposal for the site “We are hoping that although potentially hundreds of our submissions against the rezoning were apparently lost due to a technical issue from the Planning Department’s end that our voices will be heard and the proposal will be rejected,” she said “CEA fully acknowledges the need for more affordable housing (but) there are so many better places for development than in and around endangered wetlands and irreplaceable cultural heritage “If the Government can openly assist developers in rezoning and developing the highest environmentally protected land it will set an extremely dangerous precedent that will open up our most ecologically and culturally sensitive Crown Land to the bulldozers across the state.” An Investigation and Resolution Officer for the NSW Ombudsman said the group’s complaint had been assessed and it had been determined that inquiries with DPHI were warranted “I have written to DPHI,” the Officer said in a letter to CEA “We usually allow an agency four weeks to review a matter and respond to us “I anticipate receiving a response by March 5 “I will be in contact again once I have received and assessed DPHI‘s response.” Judging by the number of print ads in our local papers of late the Liberals seem to be outspending Labor three to one in the campaign to win the seat… More than 100 residents gathered on August 23 to oppose plans for bushland developments at Kariong proposed by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) After receiving the news that DLALC had successfully claimed land next to the Scout Camp and Eco Gardens at Kariong conservationists and Traditional Custodians from the Guringai and Darginoong people called a town hall meeting to discuss the implications of the land claims Traditional Bloodline Custodian Tracey Howie said it was “standing room only” as community members came out in force to show their support for protecting the Kariong bushland If this current rezoning at Kariong sacred lands is approved it could set an incredibly dangerous precedent where no vacant Crown land is safe,” she said “As a part of the local Aboriginal community I’m very much in support of Indigenous organisations being included as entities within the economic landscape when it comes to development and construction “There’s plenty of areas where sustainable development and new infrastructure is wanted and greatly needed “But not in areas that will erase our ancestors’ history by destroying engraving sites and devastating the native plants and animals that it is our duty as Custodians to care for and protect.” Traditional Bloodline Custodian from the Darginoong People Renee Sales said the original reason for establishing Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council was to support Traditional Custodians in caring for Country “My family was actually instrumental in helping to set up DLALC to ensure that happens,” she said including the Guringai and Darginoong who’ve been meeting in Kariong sacred lands for thousands of years “Our family were hopeful that the establishment of DLALC would provide an avenue for local Traditional Custodians to regain some of our traditional lands and have it returned to our people after we were so cruelly dispossessed during the frontier wars of early settlement days “It is critically important to the very survival of our culture that we are allowed to continue our cultural responsibility and practices on the land and preserve our sacred places “This connection is key in improving the mental health and wellbeing of our people.” Spokesperson for Save Kariong Sacred Lands and Independent candidate for West Gosford ward in the upcoming Council election said there was a great range of diversity in those attending the meeting “We need a much better system in place to ensure that our most ecologically and culturally sensitive areas are protected such as DLALC still have access to developable land to help meet affordable housing targets and to reach their economic goals,” she said “Surely local government can team up with the state and federal government and find a resolution where DLALC won’t feel the need to attempt to develop extremely sensitive bushland areas “Since our community organised this gathering DLALC have come out with a public statement saying ‘DLALC currently has no plans to develop land adjoined to Kariong Scout Camp and Kariong Eco Village for housing’ “While we are somewhat relieved DLALC have expressed that they ‘currently’ have no plans to develop these areas that are full of cultural heritage and endangered flora and fauna we will certainly be keeping an eye on their future plans no developer has ever been permitted to develop on C2 (conservation zoned) land due to its ecological and cultural sensitivity “All we are asking is that the government abides by the very environmental protection laws that they themselves implemented.” (It will be) a decision from the State Government as to whether or not the rezoning of C2 land at Kariong is approved or rejected Opponents are urging the community to write to State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch to show their opposition to development next to the Scout Camp and Eco Gardens at Kariong Concerned community groups and Traditional Bloodline Custodians will join forces at a town hall style meeting to discuss a controversial development proposal for Kariong on Friday The meeting will begin at 6pm and continue until 8pm at Kariong Hall in Dandaloo St A 50-home development proposed for land adjacent Brisbane Water National Park has been the subject of controversy since it was first mooted by landowner Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) several years ago endangered flora and fauna and waterways with Traditional Custodians claiming the site which is culturally significant The State Government is in the process of considering a rezone of the land from C2 (the highest protection for private land of cultural and environmental significance) to pave the way for future development Opponents say many submissions were lost due to technical failure in the Department of Planning portal during the public exhibition period with just 395 submissions officially counted These are currently being reviewed by the Regional Planning Panel which will advise State Environment Minister Paul Scully who will then make a decision on whether to allow the rezone for housing Fronting the August 23 meeting will be Lisa Bellamy who are standing as a team in the coming September 14 Council election While the Kariong proposal is now out of Council hands the women say they plan to ask other candidates where they stand on the issue they will support a motion for Council to write to the State Government and DLALC to look into ways that the land can be preserved while ensuring that DLALC is either fairly compensated or receives a land swap of equal economic value Lisa Bellamy has once again called on State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch to offer support in protecting the Kariong bushland State or (even) Federal Labor Governments could work together to offer DLALC some developable land where they won’t have to destroy cultural heritage and have such a devastating impact on our pristine environment at Kariong,” she said “While we are unclear of their exact intentions we have heard that DLALC have said they have no ‘current’ plans for developing either of the sites why is DLALC in the process of planning to rezone the land next to the Scout Camp and many others … are hoping that our elected leaders can clarify exactly what DLALC is planning for the sites “We are again calling on the community to support us in opposing the destruction of our cultural heritage and endangered ecosystems “There are a lot of extremely positive things going on with our local Aboriginal community and DLALC is a major player in providing employment and supporting Indigenous businesses to get up and running “If DLALC has development aspirations also “But if we allow our history to be erased by allowing our most ecologically and culturally sensitive areas to be bulldozed there’s no amount of money that can bring that back.” Fellow Traditional Bloodline Custodian and Darkinoong woman Renee Sales said DLALC was the biggest private landowner on the Central Coast but represented less than four per cent of the entire Aboriginal community in the region “The main tribes on the Central Coast are the Guringai and my ancestors are the Darkinoong to the west of these groups,” she said “We are certainly not opposed to development nor are we against DLALC getting ahead financially but not at the cost of our irreplaceable cultural heritage and the bushland at Kariong that is one of the last bastions for endangered flora and fauna.” Coast Environmental Alliance (CEA) founder Jake Cassar said if the community didn’t rise up to oppose the Kariong development DLALC could possibly look to develop more bushland areas across the Central Coast “CEA is calling on other local environmental groups and others in the community to join us in protecting our local bushland before it is lost forever,” he said we missed you at our environmental event for Kariong the other night Such a shame to see what a rapidly rising population is doing to such sacred pockets of land particularly here on the Central Coast.I believe that in this proposed Kariong development the traditional indigenous owners should be respected and it’s the greedy developers who need to show more compassion when seeing profit over what is really a form of destruction to gorgeous local environments please continue to oppose this development This sacred land at Kariong should be protected It is already zoned at C2 protection due to it being culturally significant and ecologically sensitive land There are much more sustainable areas more suitable for housing development The locals should stand up and protect this vulnerable landscape NSW Council rangers could have increased powers to protect people from aggressive dogs following a coronial inquest into the death in 2021 of a five-week-old baby on the Central Coast Deputy State Coroner Carmel Forbes released a series of recommendations on January 17 after examining the circumstances of the death of the baby “I am satisfied that MJ died sometime on 10 or 11 July 2021 from fatal injuries caused when he was attacked inside the family home by a dog which was the family pet,” the coroner said a neighbour’s dog was killed in MJ’s family yard but no-one witnessed what actually happened Central Coast Council had issued a “Notice of Intention to Declare a Dog to be a Restricted Breed” which would have put restrictions on the family dog but that process takes some time The owner had 28 days to provide proof that the dog was not a restricted breed or crossbreed of a restricted breed the owner contacted Council and advised that his wife had recently given birth and asked for an extension of time to comply with the Notice.  it would have had to be kept in an enclosure or muzzled when not enclosed according to the Act One of the Coroner’s recommendations is to include such restrictions during the notice period of an intention to declare a dog restricted Information from other fatal dog attacks in NSW was used to provide context for some of the recommendations The recommendations included rewriting parts of the Animal Companion Act to strengthen council officers’ ability to respond more effectively to dog attacks These would include officers being able to override assessments of a dog’s breed or temperament and to be able to declare a dog dangerous or menacing or restricted The Coroner said other parts of the Act could be made clearer about whether “being lawfully on a property” included the interior of buildings or just the outside areas And further changes would remove trespassing as a problem when dealing with dangerous dogs The Coroner explained that the CA Act currently means that an offence is not committed if a dog attack resulted from a person or animal trespassing on the property on which the dog was being kept irrespective of the severity of the attack a child enters the yard in which the dog is housed with the intention of quickly retrieving a ball that has unwittingly gone into the yard,” the Coroner said Her report also talked about the difficulty in accurately identifying and distinguishing between an American Staffordshire Terrier and an American Pit Bull Terrier or a crossbreed it is plausible to infer the likelihood of a number of dogs in NSW that are registered as American Staffordshire Terriers and which are American Pit Bull Terriers or crossbreeds thereof,” her report stated The Coroner said the Minister for Local Government has committed to a review of the companion animals legislative framework which will include considering recommendations from dog attack coronial inquests and recent parliamentary inquiries into pounds and veterinary services The existing regulatory regulation requires that all dogs be identified (microchipped) and registered but dog owners’ fitness or capacity to own a dog is not tested “The possession of dogs poses considerable risks to children and vulnerable adults,” the Coroner said. “Especially if the dog owner has inadequate awareness of the risks and does not put effective measures in place to minimise such risks,such as by securing and controlling their dog.” She said councils recognise that there is likely to exist but face practical limitations in being able to address this problem The OLG had also informed the Court that it will further analyse the issue that emerged during the course of the evidence in dog attack inquests about the difficulties that council officers experience when seeking to take enforcement action Central Coast Council said it was aware that the Coroner’s report and its recommendations were now with the OLG to review and to be considered against existing legislative controls.   “Council will implement any new regulations or requirements from the OLG,” a spokesperson said “Central Coast Council is pro-active in its education of dog owners on the Central Coast with the aim to ensure they are responsible pet owners.   “Council runs regular free events to help educate owners with dog training and behaviour management including an annual Dogs Day Out event which Council also initiated a series of free dog training sessions.” Dogs on the Central Coast need to be microchipped and registered and dog owners with dogs considered to be dangerous breeds need to abide by regulations requiring responsible ownership For all information on Council’s Responsible Dog Ownership visit:  https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/residents/property/responsible-pet-ownership/dogs Holding a homeowner responsible if a trespasser is bitten is woke crazy How would that impact commercial premises that use guard dogs or rural premises that have large animals like bulls in their paddocks What if a trespasser enters a fenced backyard swimming pool to retrieve a ball and drowns To be clear there is no suggestion in this article of banning anything In the wake of a baby dying a review is being suggested NG Central School at Kariong has received $25,000 from the Federal Government’s Schools Upgrade Fund Principal Andrea Cingi said the money was used for vital upgrades “Our Kariong site plays a vital role in meeting the diverse needs of our students blending indoor and outdoor learning spaces vocational trade facilities and areas for social connection “The (funding) enabled us to refurbish multiple learning spaces across the site making both our classrooms and outdoor areas more functional and inviting “We were also able to urgently repair leaky roofs upgrade our hair and beauty salon and create a dedicated workspace for our staff where they can collaboratively design lessons extracurricular activities and wellbeing and learning support plans for our students “NG Central also has a long history of activating and working closely with community groups and we were able to maximise the Schools Upgrade Fund contribution by pairing it with additional community donations “This enabled us to create an exciting cultural hub library and dedicated Indigenous cultural space.” Member for Robertson Gordon Reid said he had visited the school on several occasions “Students are given a personalised learning experience that takes into consideration their passions and highlights the key learning areas involved with that interest,” he said and students are more engaged during learning “I am pleased to be able to support NG Central School through the Federal Labor Government’s Schools Upgrade Fund we are committed to strengthening education and improving academic outcomes across the nation.” NG Central School is a special assistance school for Year 9-12 students personalised learning and wellbeing support for young people who need a genuine alternative to the mainstream education system For more information, visit: https://www.ngc.nsw.edu.au/ Gosford Kariong Storm Rugby League Football Club has received $5,056 through the NSW Government’s $4.4M Local Sport Grant Program Club secretary Dayle Martin said the funding would provide valuable support that would benefit all members “This money means so much to our small family friendly club,” Martin said “It allows us to purchase items to provide all our players with better equipment for training sessions and a VEO camera to film games (for game reflection and growth) things that would take our little club years to purchase if we didn’t get this wonderful support “We are so grateful for this opportunity and to be able to improve our club equipment for the benefit of all our members.” Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said sport was a way of life in the Central Coast community “This vital funding for grassroots sport will help our local clubs and their army of volunteers to provide more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation,” she said “With the critical role sport plays in keeping people healthy The Local Sport Grant Program provides up to $20,000 to individual clubs and associations with $50,000 available in each electorate to increase participation in community sport improve access and enhance sport and recreation facilities In this year’s program five projects were awarded funding in the Gosford electorate for new equipment programs and facilities to a total value of $37,531 16 students studying music at Kariong Mountain High School are about to make their Spotify debut It’s part of the ‘APRA songmakers’ program which puts theory into practice and aims to inspire the next generation of home grown talent Current flood notices are in place for areas of the Central Coast, including Tuggerah Lake. Read more and follow our Facebook page  Performing Arts Centre of the Year in 2022 The visual arts culture of the Central Coast An exciting new playspace will soon be delivered at Kariong with construction works commencing 22 January 2024 (weather permitting) The local level playspace was designed with input from the community and will include slides spring rocker play equipment (suitable for children aged up to 10 years) The site is conveniently located within the Kariong Oval precinct on the Curringa Road frontage and adjoins the popular skatepark and pump track built in 2023 and in close proximity to the library and car park  Nestled between mature eucalyptus trees and connected open grassed areas this central community space offers active and passive recreational opportunities for everyone in the community to enjoy  This location also allows for natural surveillance which creates a safer environment and reduces anti-social behaviour This playspace is funded by local infrastructure contributions (section 7.11) which are charged by Council when new development occurs Construction is expected to take up to 9 weeks to complete (weather permitting).Council is urging caution in the area during the construction period as construction vehicles access to the site Why wasn’t this project completed at the time of the skate park delivery?The plans for playspace were developed in the concept plans alongside the new skate park and pump track however due to the significant increase in construction costs the play space component needed to be delivered separately once the additional funding was confirmed How is this playspace being funded? The project is funded under Section 7.11 development contributions (also known as local infrastructure contributions), which are charged by Council when new development occurs. These contributions fund local infrastructure needed to support an increased number of residents in the area. This playspace is bigger than the one initially promised – will this impact on existing trees? There will be no impact to the existing trees apart from the removal of dead wood branches to eliminate the potential safety risk of falling branches. Will there be shade and shelter at the park? The existing trees provide some shade and the existing shelters adjacent to the skatepark are also available for visitors to the playspace. When will construction begin and how long is it expected to take to complete? To avoid the peak holiday period, construction was scheduled after the summer school holiday period from [date] February 2024 and is expected to take six weeks to complete (weather permitting). Will the skate park be available for use during construction? The skatepark will remain operational during the construction of the playspace.  Will there be an increase in vehicles using on-street parking during construction?During construction the playspace contractors will utilise the reserve and construction compound to store vehicles. Photo: Kariong skate park and pump track completed in 2023 CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Council has started construction of the new skate park and pump track at Kariong Oval which is designed for a range of ages The high quality active recreational space is due for completion by May and will provide an engaging space for local families and the broader community to connect and lead active outdoor lifestyles.  Community engagement activities in 2011 resulted in 302 online survey submissions which were used by Council to develop concept designs that reflect the needs of the community – now and for generations to come.  The pump track is a continuous smooth track of banked curves and crests which can be used by a variety of ages and abilities on bikes skateboards or skates and also links into the street style skate park that is designed with a transitional flow and obstacles to suit beginner and intermediate skills Designs for this new facility also include seating The new skate park and pump track and is conveniently located within the Kariong Oval precinct on the Curringa Road frontage with easy access to the library and its adjoining carpark The site is nestled between mature eucalyptus trees and connected open grassed areas creating a central community space with opportunities for varied passive recreation for the whole community to enjoy This location also allows for natural surveillance which creates a safer environment and reduces anti-social behaviour.  This new facility boosts the liveability of the area and replaces and improves upon the existing skate bowl which is poor condition and set for demolition once the new skate park is complete.  Plans for a local level playspace were also developed in the concept plans alongside the new skate park and pump track  Construction costs have increased significantly since the original budget estimates and concept plans were developed therefore the playspace component will be delivered by Council after additional funding is confirmed This project is funded by Council’s general revenue and Local Infrastructure Contributions These contributions fund local infrastructure needed to support an increased number of residents in the area.  Why doesn’t the new design have a skate bowl The existing skate bowl at Kariong is in poor condition and in need of replacement to one that provides a safe and engaging facility that meets community needs Consultation with the community – which resulted in 321 survey submissions - told us there was a clear preference for a combination style facility with a mix of street and transition style elements and one that allows for greater user capacity The low level transition and open street areas provide a range of features for all rider styles and is particularly suited to  beginner and intermediate rider abilities to enable skill development before moving into larger skate spaces As Kariong skatepark was designed as a local level skatepark with a limited budget a skate bowl was not included in the design  With a proposed rezoning of land for a housing development at Kariong expected to go out for public comment later this month the controversial Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) proposal is back in the spotlight Environmental groups had renewed calls for the proposal to be scrapped with DLALC saying the development is “conscious and ecologically sustainable” The proposed 50-home development would see much of the 13ha block preserved in its bushland state But the Save Kariong Sacred Lands group says the region is “looking down the barrel of the destruction” of the land at 300 Woy Woy Rd and has called on the Central Coast Greens to make a stand against the proposal Coast Environmental Alliance and other local environmental groups who are deeply concerned about the proposed housing development … on this site – a site currently zoned C2 the highest protection for land outside of a National Park for its ecological and cultural significance,” a spokesperson said “We are in no way against First Nation People’s right to do what they want with their land or further themselves economically the land at Kariong is totally unsuitable for a housing development for so many reasons least of all the fact of it being home to endangered species “The biodiversity report consigned by DLALC for the ‘project area’ confirms there will be an ‘unavoidable loss of biodiversity’ which they intend to offset using the highly ineffectual and suspect scheme of biodiversity credits “This biodiversity credits scheme will see 195 credits to offset the death and habitat destruction of the endangered Eastern Pygmy Possum 141 credits for the endangered large-eared pied-bats and 31 credits for the Southern Myotis.” The group says The Greens are “natural allies” and is calling on the party to bring the situation to the attention of State Parliament “We are calling on The Greens to back-up their strong stance made in a statement in February this year requesting a resolution that will ensure the Land Council is provided with land appropriate for development land they can develop without destroying important ecological and cultural heritage,” the spokesperson said Coast Environmental Alliance (CEA) has also renewed calls for the proposal to be scrapped “While we fully appreciate the need for more housing there is nothing conscious or sustainable about gutting an area that has been zoned by the government to not allow any development due to the extremely important ecological values and cultural significance of the area,” spokesperson Jake Cassar said “The government specifically zoned this parcel of land C2 – Environmental Conservation which is the highest protection private land can receive “The C2 zone was put in place to ensure that land with cultural heritage and threatened flora and fauna is protected “The zoning is also given to areas such as this to ensure that endangered wetlands which are critically important to primary industries including the oyster leases in Brisbane Water Cassar said rezoning the land and opening it up to bulldozers would set a precedent said as a Torres Strait Islander she found having to battle to preserve sacred sites “absolutely heartbreaking” “After nearly a decade-long battle to protect the famous grandmother tree and her surrounds at Bambara both the Aboriginal community and the broader community actually worked with DLALC to have the area officially registered as ‘Kariong Sacred Lands Aboriginal Place’ due to the enormous amount of cultural heritage in the area,” she said “How can DLALC fully acknowledge the cultural significance of Kariong Sacred Lands but continue to push forward with their development proposal “I was born and raised in the Gosford area whereas the vast majority of people on DLALC are not originally from the Central Coast; they certainly don’t speak on behalf of the broader indigenous community.” Mallie said DLALC’s entire membership represented less than four per cent of the overall Central Coast Aboriginal population “We have confirmed with government agencies that there are indeed known and registered cultural sites on the land they are planning to develop,” she said “These ancient treasures will be destroyed if this goes ahead which is deeply distressing to many people in the Aboriginal community “It simply should not be allowed to happen and irrespective of who the developer is.” Mallie said the development would open up nearby sacred sites to vandalism and graffiti and endanger koala populations Cassar said the proposed development was only a short walk from the famous grandmother tree and controversial Egyptian hieroglyphs “This iconic destination is visited by thousands of tourists each year including international guests,” he said “A development in this unique and much-loved area will completely change the face of this very popular attraction which could significantly impact tourism and our local economy.” CEA is urging the community to write to the Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch to gain her support in finding a resolution that protects Kariong Sacred Lands while ensuring that DLALC is compensated or given other developable land to meet its economic goals But DLALC Chair Tina West said caring for Country was at the core of the not-for profit organisation’s mission and that misinformation had been circulating “We exist to protect and conserve the environment and Aboriginal cultural heritage for generations to enjoy while also creating tangible social and wellbeing benefits for the broader community,” she said “Under Darkinjung LALC’s proposed use of the site more than half of the 13ha will be zoned under Environmental Conservation (C2) preserving the landscape in its bushland state as well as the few identified Aboriginal cultural sites within the zone “This environmental conservation zone of more than 7ha borders Brisbane Water National Park with the national park containing sites like the grandmother tree and Kariong sacred land “Darkinjung LALC has been careful not to harm any existing cultural sites within or even in the vicinity of the proposed development including what has been referred to as the grandmother tree which is located more than 1km away from the site which bordered the existing Kariong village would be developed into a residential community inspired by conscious design principles that incorporated native vegetation deep-soil planting areas and 50 low-density homes within large blocks The development will also feature a 0.4ha area under Environmental Management (C3) zoning serving as parkland facilities for the enjoyment of the community The Land Council says it has followed rigorous processes to design a development that supports sustainable outcomes including sourcing various independent reports to meet requirements under both the NSW Planning System and the Planning Systems SEPP (Aboriginal Lands) The Biodiversity Certification Assessment Report and the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment report have addressed the potential inadvertent impacts of the proposed development and provide excellent conservation outcomes for known Aboriginal sites as well as any remnants sites or cultural artefacts that may be discovered during the development The Land Council says the impacts on the biodiversity of the area have been assessed extensively and determined to be acceptable and manageable with appropriate mitigation measures in place “We have taken a thorough and considered approach to ensure we achieve positive outcomes for Country and the community,” West said “All Aboriginal community-controlled organisations on the Central Coast and by extension a majority of Aboriginal people on the Central Coast have supported the progression of this rezoning through the NSW Planning System for almost a decade.” The proposed site complements both the natural bush surroundings and the existing Kariong housing community I am greatly concerned that an application to rezone this protected area currently zoned C2 (the highest environmental ranking) will set a precedent for any developer (Land Council or otherwise) to destroy or affect in any way We need our politicians to speak up against this particular proposal “We are in no way against First Nation People’s right to do what they want with their land or further themselves economically.” This is perhaps the most strange sentence from the opposition to this development proposal When somebody completely opposes a development of this nature they are definitely “against First Nation People’s right to do what they want with their land” Kariong is a good suburb which needs development i strongly agree for this proposal for future of the community An application for a six-lot subdivision within Mount Penang Parklands has been rejected by the Local Planning Panel The commercial development at 5 The Avenue and fronting Central Coast Hwy was to have included three fast food venues and a tyre outlet It was a new iteration of an application previously refused on the site It was referred to the Local Planning Panel after 88 submissions were received by Central Coast Council The Panel found that the proposed development and associated works did not respect the special natural characteristics of the site “The extent of proposed earthworks and roadworks (both within the site and on the Central Coast Hwy) would result in significant adverse impact on the existing trees visual and scenic quality of the site and streetscape,” the determination said The Panel also found the proposal did not meet the requirements of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 “The proposed development would result in significant cut and fill which may impact existing heritage values and vegetation to be retained and could have negative visual impact from the Central Coast Hwy,” it said “Inadequate information has been provided in relation to existing and proposed ground levels associated with site regrading works and retaining works.” The Panel said insufficient information had also been provided to address the impact of the proposed site regrading and retaining works and services on the heritage listed scribbly gums located within the site “The proposed development does not comply with the provisions of Chapter 5.3 of Gosford DCP 2013 – Kariong Mount Penang Parklands regarding landform street hierarchy and the Precinct 2 design principles,” it said There were also concerns around lack of detail on traffic impacts and safety concerns within the precinct Common sense prevails – the last thing the Coast needed are more fast food outlets What an eye sore that would have been coming off the freeway welcoming all the tourists In my opinion a small village of retailers gym and even a family friendly pub would be great for the Kariong community this site should be opened up and have more walkways and recreational areas for people to enjoy it’s a carpark – there is nothing to save except for a few tress which can easily be incorporated into planning designs There is nothing there that would create a wonderful walkway experience There are already plenty of recreational spaces in that area The Central Coast Hwy at Kariong Hill is set for a major upgrade this month The NSW Government is providing $2.5M from the Safer Roads Program to upgrade a section of the highway between the Brisbane Water Dr Interchange Transport for NSW will be carrying out a range of safety improvement works upgrade from Sunday Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said Central Coast Hwy at Kariong Hill was a fundamental connection between our community and the wider region “Everyone deserves to arrive home safely after driving on our roads and safety works at this location are vital to make sure that our community particularly our growing commuter population are able to drive in our community with peace of mind,” she said Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said the upgrade would provide many benefits to Central Coast residents and visitors “Under the NSW Labor Government the Central Coast is set to enjoy ongoing improvements to our road network which will lead to safer travel as well as create jobs and opportunities for our community,” he said Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said the safety of road users was the Government’s top priority “This upgrade will provide a stronger and safer road network on the Central Coast Hwy which will benefit the 16,000 motorists who use this section every day,” she said “This is a win for all motorists who travel to The work will include line marking and installation of new guard rails and vehicle activated signs which will advise motorists of the speed and traffic lights ahead It will be carried out from 7pm-5am Sunday to Thursday Some work may also be carried out from 9.30am-2.30pm on weekdays It is expected to be completed in six weeks A single lane closure and 40km/h speed limit will be in place for the safety of workers and motorists during work hours Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of traffic controllers and signs the best road on the coast needs upgrading is this a joke Motorists are advised of changed overnight traffic conditions on the Central Coast Hwy between the Brisbane Water Dr Interchange at Point Clare and the West Gosford Lookout at Kariong Hill which includes installation of new guard rails and vehicle-activated signs and will be carried out from 7pm-5am Sunday to Thursday for about six weeks Some day work may also be carried out from 9.30am to 2.30pm on weekdays traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during work hours a multi-lane closure from Racecourse Rd (Adcock Park) to Kariong Hill will be in place during work hours for the safety of workers and motorists Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701. I travel on the new trains daily from Woy Woy to Central and vice versa. I love the new trains apart from (the fact) they are absolutely freezing. I bought… Ettalong Memorial Bowling Club in Springwood St, Ettalong Beach, and Everglades Country Club in Dunban Rd, Woy Woy, have both submitted revised plans to Central Coast Council for significant improvements… Humpty Dumpty Foundation has sprung into action to help Central Coast Local Health District provide seven breast pumps for its midwifery and Aboriginal health services. The Pumped For Life Mother’s… Women from various community groups will join forces on Friday from 4pm-6pm for a community rally outside the office of Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch in an attempt to gain support for protecting what is known as the Kariong Sacred Lands Members of Coast Environmental Alliance (CEA) Animal Justice Party Central Coast Regional Group and the Central Coast Environmental Advisory Committee (CCEAC) will protest a controversial housing development proposed by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) at Kariong the proposed development would see up to 70 houses built on culturally and ecologically sensitive land zoned C2 (formerly E2) on Woy Woy Rd with objections including concerns over the cultural and environmental significance of the area. consequences of an increased traffic flow in the area and fire safety risks CEA spokesperson Emma French said the groups are urging Tesch to lend her support to protecting the site from development “While this event is run by women in the hope of appealing to our most influential and popular State member of course men are welcome to the event,” she said “I wrote a personal letter to Liesl in an attempt to appeal to her as an inspirational woman to take a leadership role in caring for our precious environment “There are many strong and caring women in our community who have devoted their lives to caring for this area known as Kariong Sacred Lands “We are hoping Liesl will … choose protecting our most vulnerable local bushland over supporting this … development.” Kariong resident and CCEAC spokesperson Lisa Bellamy said DLALC’s ‘cut and fill’ development would see the removal of trees plants and sandstone which contain endangered wetlands and threatened flora and fauna species The area is also officially listed as an Area of Regional Koala Significance (ARKS) “As a local who regularly spends time in this beautiful place I’m not willing to just sit back and let this go ahead,” she said “I’m really hoping our State Member will support us over a private organisation which doesn’t have a good track record when it comes to conservation.” Darkinoong/Yuin Elder Aunty Colleen Fuller said while the groups appreciated the need for more housing it should not come at the cost of ancient cultural heritage endangered wetlands and threatened flora and fauna “There are known and registered Aboriginal engraving sites in the area,” she said “Removing all that sandstone will erase a significant part of our history.” “DLALC is the biggest private land-owner on the Central Coast with over 1000 new land claims currently being assessed “If DLALC can be supported by the Government in successfully claiming culturally and environmentally sensitive land rezoning it and opening it up to these types of developments it will set a dangerous precedent across the state “With the rezoning proposal coming up for public submissions in October we are looking to our State Member to find a way to protect the land while ensuring that DLALC is duly compensated “This could be achieved by the State Government providing DLALC with land that can be developed without causing irreparable damage to our local environment while preserving this part of Kariong Sacred lands in the surrounding National Park.” French said the groups are calling on women of all ages and backgrounds to come to the peaceful respectful and child friendly protest on September 8 More information on the event can be found at https://www.facebook.com/events/274079042020983 DLALC chair BJ Duncan has said previously that the planning proposal to rezone the land would see more than half the site safeguarded for environmental conservation He said DLALC was seeking the same rights as other non-Aboriginal land-owners – to have self-determination for how they use their land Wonderful to see such a strong stand taken on this important issue We can’t allow the rezoning for development of protected bushland for anyone no matter what claims they make This land development has been on the table for a long time the DLALC even contemplate the destruction of ancient original sites all the homes for the numerous bird life as they will lose their trees and nests Also the hanging swamp which also protects the land birth and care for future generations to protect this important sacred land are standing together to say NO Coast Environmental Alliance (CEA) has accused the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of carrying out “unnecessary” and “extreme” remedial works at the site of the Kariong hieroglyphics outraged at the “decimation” of the renowned landmark CEA spokesperson Jake Cassar said the NPWS had begun to remove what it considered to be dangerous boulders above the controversial Egyptian-style hieroglyphs – an area frequented by many locals and tourists “Our group was aware that there was a particular area that NPWS had deemed unsafe but it looks like they’ve literally taken out tonnes of sandstone and from areas where there was no risk of the rocks budging in the slightest,” he said “This seems like an incredibly extreme move by the State Government and frankly quite perplexing “We would be really interested to find out how much this has cost the Australian public and why they’ve removed so much sandstone “It’s fair enough to secure the areas they believed posed a public risk but to level the entire area above the heiroglyphs has really changed the face of this very popular destination “Many people in our community and beyond are very distressed about the situation at Kariong with some seeing it as an intentional attack on the area.” Cassar said with a major housing development proposed for a site nearby the group would like a guarantee from the State Government that no attempt will be made to destroy the hieroglyphics An application for a rezoning to accommodate Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council’s 50-home housing project at 300 Woy Woy Rd Kariong Progress Association spokesperson Geoff Mitchell said there had been an uproar among those people who have knowledge of and visit the hieroglyphics “At first glance it would appear they were being destroyed or at least being damaged,” he said Mitchell said there was “enormous sensitivity” around the entire area at the moment due to the rezoning application “I have been walking to the Kariong glyphs now for the past 23 years,” he said “In that time there has been no movement in the rock formations around it and there has been nothing that I would have called dangerous about the site.” with no prior notification of the proposed works from the NPWS “All the reaction could have been avoided if there had been some community consultation beforehand; not much just a phone call would have saved a great deal of angst,” he said “Parks exist for the benefit of the community and yet this action by the NPWS shows a degree of arrogance which is not appreciated “Let’s hope they can do better in the future.” An NPWS spokesperson said the “glyphs” site is within a larger significant Aboriginal site called the Kariong Sacred Land Aboriginal Place even though NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service does not promote it,” the spokesperson said “After commissioning a geotechnical assessment of the site it was identified there was unacceptable risk of a rockfall and that works were required to address this “NPWS undertook a range of environmental and cultural assessments before works started on December 11 “Mitigation measures were included to protect the ‘glyphs’ using onsite techniques recommended by a specialist with expertise in rock hazard treatment “Registered Aboriginal parties were consulted on preferred works with a preference to remove boulders “Despite clear safety signs and barricades around the site “It is now a construction site and unauthorised access is an offence – fines apply.” The works are highly unprofessional and it currently looks like a demolition site with the workers metal in dangerous unplanned positions No normal building or renovation site would look like this Auntie Tree and all flora and fauna are safe and unharmed As calls came from the Indigenous-Aboriginal Party of Australia to have the Kariong Ridge area Traditional Bloodline Custodians of the Central Coast invited the community to come together in solidarity on January 26 to promote “caring for community and country” More than 400 people gathered at Kariong to enjoy a smoking ceremony didgeridoo playing and speeches by local Aboriginal elders including Uncle Colin Lyons Aunty Colleen Fuller and Aunty Tracey Howie Direct descendent of the historical figure Bungaree from Patonga said January 26 was a day of mourning for many Indigenouos people we want to bring people together to celebrate the fact that we are still here and peacefully rising up with our brothers and sisters from all backgrounds to care for country and community,” he said “With all the division in the world at the moment it’s time for good people to unite for the sake of our children “We aren’t pretending that the past didn’t happen; many Aboriginal people are still suffering in many ways from the impacts of colonisation “Our goal was to invite the community to hear our stories and to work together towards a kinder and more caring society “We chose Kariong Sacred Lands to have a smoking ceremony as it represents where both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous community made a stand to protect Bambara “After nearly a decade of non-stop activism concerts and a camp on Woy Woy Rd for 89 days we were successful and now all of this land is protected in the National Park “Myself and other family members have been working closely with Jake Cassar to preserve the land next to Bambara from a proposed housing development by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council this area contains at least two registered Aboriginal sites and endangered ecological communities.” Craig said Darkinjung Land Council does not represent the descendants of Bungaree fully acknowledge the Darkinjung people who inhabited the western part of the Central Coast,” he said “The Guringai and Darkinjung came together to protect Kariong Sacred Lands at Bambara.” Craig said Traditional Custodians have been in talks with Member for Gosford and Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs looking for their support in protecting the sacred lands and having the Guringai acknowledged as the first People of the Central Coast “There are hundreds of people who can prove that they are direct descendants of Bungaree “To be able to express ourselves to hundreds of local men women and children at Kariong Sacred Lands and on a date that is so significant to our people was an act of unity and reconciliation that we plan on having every year “To quote the late and great Martin Luther King: ‘We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools’.” Australian Rural & Regional News asked some further questions of Lisa Bellamy and the Save Kariong Sacred Lands group and sought a response from the Darkingjung Local Aboriginal Land Council and also the NSW Department of Planning Any response from Darkinjung LALC will be included below also Save Kariong Sacred Lands Supporters advocating for the protection of Lots 512 and 513 identified as part of Kariong Sacred Lands along Woy Woy Road express shock and dismay over the lack of transparency and fairness during the Community Consultation Phase for the contentious rezoning proposal facilitating a planned housing development Despite being approved at the Gateway Stage concerns have arisen regarding the subsequent community input stage During the critical public consultation period spanning 42 days over the Christmas holiday break and closing on January 29 2024 supporters noted the challenges faced by community members attempting to engage with the process Lisa Bellamy from the Save Kariong Sacred Lands group emphasized the incongruity of scheduling such a crucial phase during a time when community engagement is typically low Bellamy expressed concerns about the timing and accessibility “If true community consultation was encouraged during this public exhibition stage it should be properly publicly advertised and set over a time when relevant authorities are available The current situation raises questions about the efficiency of IT systems and staffing or potentially indicates more sinister motives.” issues with the submission process have further escalated the situation it became evident that numerous individuals who submitted via the NSW Department of Planning Portal did not receive confirmation emails Attempts to address this with the Department of Planning were met with challenges being on secondment and the system directing concerns to an overwhelmed customer service and the lack of a recovery mechanism is alarming.” Strong added that the customer service representative acknowledged the technical capacity to retrieve lost submissions but expressed suspicion about the circumstances surrounding the loss Environmentalists and community advocates are vehemently opposing the project highlighting the irreversible loss of biodiversity and endangerment of species The development’s impact extends to the removal of threatened wetlands and the potential degradation of the Brisbane Water Catchment Critics argue that the project disregards the ecological emphasizing the lack of proper evaluation of Aboriginal heritage sites and the disapproval from local Traditional Custodians The proposed rezoning also raises concerns about the strain on local infrastructure and potential risks associated with urban sprawl Due to the failure of the public consultation process, a new submission period until February 9, 2024, has been allowed via email to Central Coast’s office of Department of Planning (centralcoast@planning.nsw.gov.au) [Ed: extended to 12 February by the department We estimate over 3,000 public submissions opposing this unpopular planning proposal It is impossible to contact every person to resubmit their views It appears to be a huge waste of time and raises serious concerns about the authenticity of the ‘tick box’ community consultation.” the public is encouraged to resubmit their views via email by the specified deadline Those not wishing their submissions to be made publicly available on the NSW Planning Portal can opt out by sending an email with “OPT OUT” in the subject line This incident marks a critical failure in the community consultation process depriving the public of their voice in a decision of significant consequence ARR.News: Can you give more information about who and how many people are part of the Save Kariong Sacred Lands group and the nature of the group Save Kariong Sacred Lands: We are a local group of concerned locals including local bloodline Traditional Custodians who have formed a group specifically to raise issues surrounding the planned rezoning of the land known as Kariong Sacred Lands ARR.News: What evidence do you have that “over 3,000 submissions Save Kariong Sacred Lands: Our campaign has been running for almost 4 years with the sole purpose of asking people to put in a submission when the time came A spokesperson for the NSW Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure provided the following response to Australian Rural & Regional News: The Department is conscious of the strong level of community interest in the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council’s (LALC) proposal at Kariong on the Central Coast The Department has received feedback that some people may have experienced communication issues while making submissions on the Planning Portal As a result, the deadline for submissions via centralcoast@planning.nsw.gov.au has been extended until Monday 12 February at 5PM The Department will ensure any submissions made by email which were unable to be lodged on the Planning Portal will be included as part of the normal process The Independent Regional Planning Panel will then consider the proposal including all submissions received during the initial public exhibition period and emails received up until Monday 12 February A response to submissions is expected to be finalised by mid-2024 The Darkinjung LALC will still need to formally submit any potential development applications through Central Coast Council should the land be rezoned This will be subject to a separate public exhibition process There is a high level of community interest in the planning proposal which is evident from the submissions which were lodged through the Planning Portal prior to the initial Monday 29 January deadline The Department understands the community wishes to ensure their feedback and comments are appropriately considered There were issues preventing some people from lodging their submissions through the Planning Portal which are now being investigated by the Planning Portal team Submissions are also currently being accepted via the Central Coast Mailbox (centralcoast@planning.nsw.gov.au) until Monday 12 February The Department’s website and Planning Portal page (https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ppr/post-exhibition/darkinjung-lalc-kariong-woy-woy-road) have been updated to reflect this change The Department exhibited the planning proposal for an extended period of eight weeks from Friday 1 December 2023 to Monday 29 January 2024 to account for the summer holiday period The planning proposal includes a draft Development Control Plan to ensure development outcomes are sensitive to the constraints of the site Sign up for updates from Australian Rural & Regional News Manage your subscription We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info. Kariong Mountains High School could have some future music stars in its ranks. Sixteen students are to set to make their debut when their original music will be released online…thanks to the help of some big names in the industry. Remediation works at the Kariong Egyptian Hieroglyphs site has sparked controversy among locals. National Parks and Wildlife have been working to make the area safer for tourists…but residents are concerned over the alleged destruction. Kariong has been included in a list of the state’s top 20 investment-grade suburbs where buyers have a negotiating advantage over vendors. New research commissioned by Well Money (formerly known as Well Home Loans) began by considering every suburb in NSW, before filtering out suburbs: that weren’t investment-grade; where demand had not been falling; and where prices had not increased by at least 45 per cent over the past decade. That left a small list of investment-grade suburbs where conditions are favourable to buyers and where investors know they have plenty of bargaining power – because even if they offered a 10 per cent discount, vendors would still be giving up only a fraction of the profits they’d made in the previous decade. Kariong came in at number four, the only Central Coast suburb to make the list. Well Money CEO Scott Spencer said the ranking was designed to help investors who wanted to buy in quality locations and hold a negotiating edge over vendors. “Buyers hold a negotiating advantage in each of these suburbs right now, because vendors have enjoyed capital growth of at least 45 per cent over the past decade,” he said. “Another reason why buyers have the edge in these suburbs is because market conditions have been turning in their favour, as demand relative to supply has been falling.” Spencer said the suburbs in this report are quality, investment-grade locations. “All of them have low inventory levels, which will put upward pressure on price growth, and low vacancy rates, which will put upward pressure on rental growth,” he said. “So the data suggests that investors would be more likely than not to enjoy positive returns.” But Spencer urged investors to be prudent with their finances. “Interest rates have been rising and will probably increase even further in the first half of 2023, so investors need to budget for higher repayments,” he said. “It’s risky to enter the market if you don’t believe you’d have the capacity to cope with higher interest rates.” The median asking price for homes at Kariong at December 2022 was $952,750. Source: Media release, Jan 15, 2023, Well Money Judging by the number of print ads in our local papers of late, the Liberals seem to be outspending Labor three to one in the campaign to win the seat… who was a prisoner at Kariong Correctional Centre Family of Aboriginal man who died in custody call for justice 2 min readPublished 8 November 2019 4:01pm Four candidates in Saturday’s State election have joined forces to urge the State Government to protect Kariong Sacred Lands from a proposed housing development by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) Emily McCallum (Animal Justice Party (AJP) candidate for Gosford) William Bourke (Sustainable Australia Party (SAP) Upper House candidate) and Independent candidates Lisa Bellamy (Gosford) and Colleen Fuller (Upper House) say if Local Aboriginal Land Councils across NSW are given the green light to rezone and develop highly ecologically and culturally sensitive bushland the impacts will be “disastrous and permanent” “This part of Kariong is registered as an Area of Regional Koala Significance (ARKS) and is full of rare threatened and endangered species such as the Red Crowned Toadlet the Giant Burrowing Frog and the Eastern Pigmy possum the smallest possum species in the world,” McCallum said “These animals rely on the endangered wetlands at Kariong Sacred Lands for their very existence “AJP will continue to support the local community to provide a voice for our most vulnerable wildlife.” Bellamy said the community had been lobbying the Government for years on the issue “The proposed development has caused great division distress and conflict in our community and we really need leadership here,” she said “To date we have received no meaningful action from our elected representative “Kariong Sacred Lands is zoned E2 – Environmental Conservation – the Government themselves zoned it so it couldn’t be developed allowing a private land developer to claim rezone and develop highly sensitive bushland could set a precedent that has far-reaching implications for the environment across the state “With the added stress on local infrastructure I’m of the opinion that developments like this have the potential to lower the value of local properties.” who is the lead candidate for the SAP NSW Upper House ticket said the party promoted sustainable development rather than “exploiting some of our most precious local bushland” “My number one goal is to protect our environment so we need to stop over-development,” he said “The Central Coast SAP candidates fully appreciate the need for affordable housing and advocate for that but there are other places on the Central Coast where such development would be much more suitable and welcomed by locals.” Bourke said DLALC should be “treated fairly and equitably” and that all stakeholders should be given “every opportunity to explore all options to find a resolution that suits everyone” Fuller said if the Government allowed Land Councils to claim land due to its cultural and ecological significance then bulldoze it for profit against the wishes of the Traditional Bloodline Custodians it was one of “the single biggest threats to our environment that our state has ever faced” “As an Aboriginal woman with ancestral ties to the Central Coast it’s at the core of my culture to care for Country and community,” she said “Seeing these other candidates join forces to support looking after our Sacred Lands gives me hope that other First Nations people will be supported when their precious local bushland is under threat.” The group also cited concerns around further congestion on an “already stressed” Woy Woy Rd the removal of endangered wetlands and an overflow of pollution into the surrounding national park as reasons why the proposed development shouldn’t go ahead Construction has begun on the new skate park and pump track at Kariong Oval and will provide an engaging space for local families and the broader community to connect and lead active outdoor lifestyles Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services Mel Smith said the community has shaped the design of the new skate park and pump track and informed the decision-making process for the project “Community engagement activities were held in 2021 with design workshops and an online survey resulting in 302 submissions with this valuable feedback guiding the concept designs to ensure they reflect the needs of the community,” Smith said “Community engagement identified a preference for a street style skate park and pump track with transitional flow and obstacles that cater to beginner and intermediate skill levels shade and water re-fill stations were also a priority by many members of the community – which are all reflected in the final designs installation of waste bins and connective pathways The pump track is a continuous smooth track with banked curves and crests which can be used by a variety of ages and abilities on bikes The new skate park and pump track is located within the Kariong Oval precinct on the Curringa Rd frontage with easy access to the library and adjoining carpark creating a central community space with opportunities for varied passive recreation The location also allows for natural surveillance which creates a safer environment and reduces anti-social behaviour The new facility will replace and improve upon the existing skate bowl (located at the Central Coast Hwy side of the oval) which is in poor condition and set for demolition once the new skate park is complete Council Administrator Rik Hart said this project is a great example of how community participation in consultation leads to real impact in the final design and delivery of new facilities “This new skate park and pump track will cater to the needs of the community now and for future generations and improve liveability of the area,” Hart said “We will continue to use community opinion and feedback to make informed decisions to deliver better services and projects for the Central Coast region.” The project is funded by Council’s general revenue and Local Infrastructure Contributions These contributions fund local infrastructure needed to support an increased number of residents in the area Construction costs have increased significantly since original budget estimates and concept plans were developed so the playspace component will be delivered by Council later once additional funding is confirmed. Shoppers at Erina Fair were surprised to see a group of women dressed in Mother Earth themed costumes shimmy out of the crowd to join a choreographed dance on June 10 to raise awareness about a controversial proposed development at Kariong Twenty-five members of the Kariong Sacred Lands Action Group performed a flash mob style dance to Joni Mitchell’s Big Yellow Taxi with lyrics adapted for the occasion Save Kariong Sacred Lands Action group consists of local Traditional Custodians and concerned Central Coast residents determined to see state and federal governments and the Greater Cities Commission prevent the proposed development by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) “We wanted to try a different way of bringing these matters to the public,” said spokesperson Lisa Bellamy “We thought a bit of fun and street theatre would help raise awareness about the dreadful environmental destruction happening right on our doorsteps “The land up at Kariong is one of these areas “Zoned C2 (Environmental Conservation) it is home to endangered flora and fauna species as well as a hanging swamp “The hanging swamp is a vital water source for the land below the ‘project area’ “This water feeds through the Brisbane Water National Park ensuring a healthy ecosystem.” Bellamy said the group was concerned that rezoning the bushland for housing would “create a dangerous precedent for many more hectares of vital native habitat and culturally sensitive areas all over NSW” Fellow group member Emily McCallum said Australia held the title for the highest extinction rates of native species in the world with habitat loss and land clearing being key factors “This is truly an indictment on our society and we must work together to turn this situation around,” she said “Our group is deeply concerned about this private developer being supported by the government in rezoning this culturally and ecologically sensitive land to being destroyed “Apart from the fact the proposed development is at the crest of a fire prone area and the community concerns about already stressed local infrastructure this part of Kariong is listed as an Area of Regional Koala Significance “With our iconic koalas recently being officially listed as an endangered species I’m truly hoping the Aussie spirit will shine through and our community will rise up before the habitat of this little Aussie battler is lost forever.” Traditional Custodians in the group say Minister for the Central Coast David Harris has declined to meet with them over their concerns regarding the development’s proximity to sacred sites For more information go to https://www.savekariongsacredlands.com/ Source:Lisa Bellamy For Kariong Sacred Lands Action Group It’s a wonderful cause & needs to be addressed I truly hope everyone can get behind this to stop this .. The true custodians of our central coast are being silenced by the Darkinjung Land Council. This site at Kariong has been fought for and won by the activists. It’s now under threat of subdivision. This type development where conservation land can be rezoned must be opposed. Well done on bringing attention to this important issue! I hope it can be stopped. Residents of Kariong are fed up with the state of disrepair of the Central Coast Council sporting reserve at Mitchell Dr and Pollock Ave One concerned resident has written to Council outlining a range of maintenance and vandalism issues and is calling for immediate action “There is a lot of vandalism and very poorly maintained facilities; most of these issues have been around for a long time,” the resident said “I have raised a number of these issues with Council but I don’t see much happening (without a battle) The resident said graffiti abounds at the reserve on signs in the skate park and children’s playground and on the underpass and other structures “The only water fountain/tap which is accessible to the public is sealed off,” he said with the soft-fall sand contaminated with grass “The safety fencing along the oval is torn down in several parts and there is extensive damage to the cricket nets fencing “The picnic tables are in a bad state of repair – one of them has a hole in the tabletop and table surfaces have deteriorated to the point that parts have rotted and are not a suitable flat surface (on which) to place a cup of coffee.” The resident said buildings in the reserve have been vandalized A vandalised safety railing on the viewing platform poses a fall risk for children The car park drain is partially blocked and one of the car park vehicle stops is sitting on the kerb nearby The resident said Council crews should be identifying the issues and having them addressed in a timely manner without the need for the community to provide input “The fixes are very simple and would be relatively low cost,” he said Council was approached for comment but had not responded at the time of going to press An investigation is underway after a man died in a serious two vehicle crash at Kariong Locals say see more safety measures are needed GO FUND ME A team from Kariong Public School has taken out a state award in the 2022 Techgirls Competition for developing its Breakfast Club app. Zyenna Hamblin, Sophie Luland, Rishika Satheesh and Aleira Holland were named the NSW Primary Regional Winners in the competition, run by the Techgirls Movement Foundation with their new Breakfast Club app. STEM teacher Mark Nash said the competition is about young girls solving young people’s problems, so two teams from Years 5 and 6 at Kariong identified a problem that was important to them in their local community and took ownership in designing and building a solution. “Teams were encouraged to align their solutions with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals targets,” he said. Students learnt the basics of computer programming and came up with a mobile app business idea, testing the idea, writing a business plan, developing a prototype, and pitching it via an online video platform. They spent 12 weeks completing four modules; ideation, research, build and pitch. “Overall, the main goal is for the girls to become technology entrepreneurs,” Nash said. The girls worked for many weeks with Nash, researching and developing their apps, using digital technologies and production skills. “It was out first year of running this project although we have been running STEM for some years,” Nash said. “We were the only public school to receive an award. “This is a fantastic way of promoting girls in STEM, science and technology in particular – the girls got to do everything from identifying a problem and coming up with a solution to developing an app business plan to promote it to the whole community and writing lines of code. “Team 1 chose our new Breakfast Club, which we will start on a trial basis one or two days a week next term, as its theme. “Through the app parents and kids can see what’s being offered that day and parents can volunteer their time.” Nash said the girls came up with the idea unaided. “It’s important for the teacher to stand back a bit,” he said. “Each team was allocated a female mentor – these were people who have worked successfully in technology. “This was a wonderful achievement not only for lour school but for these girls in particular – this is what the real world is about and the competition encourages girls into science fields and technology.” Play Duration: 3 minutes 15 seconds3m 15sBrought to you by I live in Kariong, a town an hour north of Sydney. It was once a place free of noise, pollution and graffiti, but I guess everyone found out about our little piece of paradise. Imagine a sea of gum trees, grevillea and wattles. It's home to the possums who visit my house of an evening and an historic landmark for dozens of Aboriginal carvings and drawings. To be auctioned and cleared to make way for rows of offices - to make way for change. Everything is changing around me and I can't help but wonder if I'm supposed to change too. I forgot - the new neighbours don't wave. I'm walking my dogs and I remember a time when I didn't need to bring music. I'd listen to the Willy Wagtails and, in the summer, the cicadas drowned out everything. Now, leaving my headphones at home is a punishment. I turn the volume to maximum, in the hope it will drown out the angry blows of horns. As a child, I would run to the local store for my favourite, a blue raspberry slushy. The owner, Gary, would greet me with a smile and ask "How's Mum and Dad?" My local store has since been demolished, replaced by a big petrol station. I walk through the automatic doors, I see a sign that reads "School kids leave bags outside." The only question I'm asked is, "Do you have a discount voucher?" As an eight year old, I was a proud member of the Jessina Street Scooter Club. Every Saturday morning we would meet at an empty lot down the road. I miss the kookaburras that laughed cheekily on the top of my swing set. I live in Kariong, a city an hour north of Sydney. There's a stop sign at the end of my street. Nobody told me I needed to give way to the future. 2012 Heywire winner, Stephanie Beckedahl, Kariong NSW NG Central School at Kariong will soon have a new bus to transport students to the school from all over the Coast thanks to a $25,000 grant from the State Government’s 2021 Community Building Partnership program The special assistance school offers an alternative pathway for students in Years 9-12 who are struggling with mainstream education Principal Andrea Cingi said students from a variety of suburbs “This adds to the difficulty of going to school for most students and with this bus the school will be able to pick up students straight from home “We want to make schooling as simple to get to as possible With so many scary and concerning events unfolding around the world students need to be able to access school easily and conveniently “This bus will also assist us to get students to and from excursions and special events we are breaking down one of many barriers to these students’ education.” popped into the school to announce the funding “NG Central School is an outstanding school that provides tailored education and training to students who might struggle with the standard school model or methods,” Tesch said “It also provides pathways for students to enter into post-schooling employment in priority industries such as horticulture “This funding will help ensure students who live on the Peninsula or in Gosford are able to get to school in a timely manner and not have to make several connecting journeys to get to school.” Registered and accredited as a special assistance school with the NSW Education Standards Authority the school also provides benevolent relief to students in need we make it our mission to think outside the box when it comes to teaching and learning so that students feel engaged supported and like they belong,” the school website says NG Central School is located at Green Central A two vehicle motor accident in Kariong caused significant delays along the Central Coast Highway on December 3 The incident occurred around 3:30pm at the traffic lights on the corner of Curringa Rd Investigations are underway as to how the incident occurred but it is believed that speed may have played a factor in the head on collision of the two vehicles causing extensive blockages along the roadway Emergency services attended the scene and there have been no reports of serious injury Both vehicles were removed from the road after an initial investigation with traffic remaining congested for around 3 hours