Central Coast Council is calling for community and industry feedback to ensure the right land use and planning is in place to support future jobs and economic growth on the Central Coast.

Central Coast Council’s annual Harvest Festival, held over the June long weekend, has once again welcomed thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond.

Central Coast Council is calling on the community to provide feedback on the proposed Mannering Park Shared Pathway – a major infrastructure project that will deliver a safer, more accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists.The new pathway, linking Mannering Park, Kingfisher Shores and Chain Valley Bay will add to the region’s active transport network, improving connectivity to local schools, parks, services and recreational areas.Council Director Infrastructure Services, Boris Bolgoff, said the project represents a major step forward for active transport on the Central Coast.“During previous consultation, 93% of stakeholder feedback supported Option 1 — the foreshore route,” Mr Bolgoff said.“This investment will deliver safer and more sustainable active transport options for our community.”The project is fully funded, with $5.7 million from Council Developer Contributions and a $7 million grant from the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program.The concept design proposes a 2.9-kilometre pathway stretching from Griffith Street, Mannering Park to Tall Timbers Road, Kingfisher Shores.

Central Coast Council has been recognised for outstanding achievement across multiple areas of service and innovation, taking home one of the prestigious 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards in Sydney.Council was awarded top honour for Community Partnerships population over 150,000 - for the 'Every Day I like to play' children's book.‘Every Day I like to play’ is a children’s picture book, developed by Central Coast Council, to promote respectful relationships and break down gendered stereotypes of traditional roles within the home.Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the award reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful, community-focused outcomes.“The creation of this children’s book has been a wonderful initiative, as it explores positive and respectful relationships, encourages acceptance and celebrates kindness. “Being recognised with the NSW Local Government Excellence’s Community Partnerships Award for Council’s ‘Every Day I like to play’ children’s book is an honour and a testament to the passion and professionalism of our staff,” Mayor McKinna said.Council was also named as finalists for seven additional projects, showcasing the breadth of its work across the organisation:•    Schools Water Efficiency Program (Flow Forward) •    GLOW Women’s Initiative •    Customer Liaison Program •    Sustainable Futures Festival•    Bushfire Risk Analysis and 5-Year Risk Mitigation Program Plan•    Eco Advocates and Excellence Program•    EduCAT ProgramMayor McKinna said receiving the NSW Local Government Excellence Community Partnerships Award and being recognised as finalists in another seven categories significantly enhances Council’s reputation and provides state-wide recognition for the innovative programs being developed and delivered by Council.“Whether it’s focusing on families, empowering students to save water, supporting women in leadership, or transforming the way we support our customers—these programs are helping us build a more inclusive, sustainable and customer-focused Council.“Every one of these projects shows the innovative practices and positive impact on our community, achieved when we work together with purpose and care.”The Local Government Excellence Awards, hosted by Local Government Professionals Australia NSW, recognise outstanding efforts and achievements by councils across the state in delivering best practice, leadership and service to their communities.Image - left to right: Leah Haydon, Council Community Development Worker, LGEA award presenter and Belinda McRobie Council Section Manager Community Development  

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the draft Leisure and Aquatic Strategy 2025-2035, on public exhibition from Thursday 5 June to Thursday 3 July 2025.The draft strategy sets a clear, 10-year framework to guide the future of the Coast’s key leisure and aquatic services and facilities.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to have their say on a new draft Water and Sewer Concessions and Rebate Policy, now on public exhibition until 23 July 2025.The proposed policy aims to replace three existing policies from the former Gosford and Wyong Councils, creating a single, streamlined approach to providing financial assistance for customers facing hardship due to home dialysis, concealed leaks, or sewer connection costs.Council Director of Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said the draft policy demonstrates Council’s ongoing commitment to fairness, transparency, and putting customers first.“This draft policy is about making it easier for our community to access support when they need it most,” Mr Loader said.“We know life can throw up challenges, and this policy aims to respond with compassion, clarity and consistency.

Local community organisations are invited to apply for Central Coast Council’s 2025-26 Community Grants Program, with applications open from 1-30 June 2025.With $900,000 in total funding available, the program supports initiatives that foster community connections, activate public spaces and enhance the quality of life for Central Coast residents. Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the grants are an important way for Council to support and celebrate the Coast’s diverse community.“These programs bring people together through local events, projects and activities that align with our Community Strategic Plan,” Ms Smith said.“Last year, we funded a wide range of initiatives, from sporting programs, community outreach programs, writing festivals, mental health art exhibitions, equipment to enhance community organisations and family-friendly events – we look forward to seeing what this year brings.” The Community Grant Programs include:Community Development Grant Program – Supports projects that deliver strong community outcomes and improve the quality of life for Central Coast residents.Grants up to $20,000 per application.Annual funding pool of $300,000.Not open again until June 2026.Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program – Supports community events that activate local spaces and bring people together.•    Grants up to $20,000 per application.•    Annual funding pool of $300,000.•    Not open again until June 2026. Community Support Grant Program – Open year-round for small-scale activities, projects and events.•    Grants up to $5000 per application.•    Annual funding pool of $300,000. Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna highlighted the importance of grants in creating vibrant, inclusive communities.“These grants help activate our town centres, foreshore, lakes and open spaces, making them safe and welcoming for families, locals and visitors,” Mayor McKinna said.“If your organisation is working to deliver lasting benefits for our region, I strongly encourage you to apply.”Applications open 1 June 2025 and close 30 June 2025.Review the grant program guidelines and submit your application, search ‘grants’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Central Coast Council is serving up Taste of Wyong and Taste of Toukley – one day event celebrations of local food, culture and community this June.Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith, encourages locals and visitors to join the culinary adventure through Wyong and Toukley town centres.“With exclusive $5 tasting boxes from some of the area's best eateries, offering savoury bites to sweet treats, there’s something for every palate,” Ms Smith said.“Families can enjoy more than just great food – with live entertainment, roving performers, and free kids’ activities, including a petting zoo and craft activities.”Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said that Taste of Wyong and Taste of Toukley are opportunities to celebrate the cultural richness of our region.“We’re proud to support initiatives that energise our town centres,” Mayor McKinna said.“These events bring our community together, support our hardworking local businesses and shine a light on the incredible food and culture that make Wyong and Toukley so welcoming.”Taste of Wyong10am–1pm, Saturday 7 JuneFrank Ballance Memorial Park, WyongTaste of Toukley12–3pm, Saturday 21 JuneThe Village Green, ToukleyTaste of Wyong is part of Council’s annual Harvest Festival, celebrating the Coast’s rich heritage, seasonal produce and creative talent.See what’s on offer and find out more, search ’Taste of Wyong’ and ‘Taste of Toukley’ at LoveCentralCoast.comENDS

The celebrations are far from over for the Central Coast Mariners, with Central Coast Council set to host a public Civic Reception for the A-League Women’s team at Mingara Event Centre from 5.45pm on Friday 23 May!This free event is open to the entire community and offers fans the chance to come together and re-live the Mariners’ incredible A-League Women’s Championship win on Sunday 18 May.Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said Council is thrilled to be recognising the Mariners’ remarkable achievement and expects a fantastic turnout."I watched the live stream at the stadium on Sunday, surrounded by proud Coasties, and the atmosphere was electric!

Central Coast Council is inviting community feedback on proposed upgrades at Woy Woy Waste Management Facility, designed to improve long-term waste storage capacity and deliver more than $5 million in future annual cost savings.The planned works involve creating a flat earthen platform near the facility’s entrance.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the final stage of the Tuggerawong Shared Pathway – a key project supporting active transport and connectivity in the region.The concept design for Stage 5 of the pathway is now open for public comment and Council is encouraging residents, community groups and stakeholders to share their views.Central Coast Council Director Infrastructure Services, Boris Bolgoff said community feedback has played a vital role in shaping the project so far.“During previous consultation, 87% of stakeholders supported this foreshore route for Stage 5,” Mr Bolgoff said. “With full funding secured through Council developer contributions and an Australian Government funding commitment of $1.5 million, Council is pleased to be able to progress this $6.2 million project.”Stage 5 proposes a 1.45-kilometre shared path along the Tuggerah Lake foreshore, stretching from Palmer Street to Don Small Oval.Once completed, it will add to the scenic route around the lake, enhancing access to local schools, parks, shops and recreational areas.

The 2024-25 Central Coast beach patrol season officially concluded on Sunday 27 April, following a busy seven months that saw a significant rise in beach visitation and a strong safety response from Central Coast Council lifeguards and Surf Life Saving Central Coast (SLSCC) volunteers.Throughout the season, Council lifeguards provided weekday patrols at 15 beaches and The Grant McBride Baths, while SLSCC volunteers covered weekends and public holidays.

Central Coast Council Mayor and CEO met with NSW Government Ministers, officials and local MPs this morning and are pleased with the discussions. Council welcome’s the NSW Government’s announcement that immediate options around coastal erosion impact, will be explored in the coming days between government agencies and Council, that may include utilising the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s powers.NSW Government Statement:NSW Government Ministers, officials and local MPs met with the Mayor and CEO of Central Coast Council this morning to discuss coastal erosion in the area.It was agreed immediate options under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act would be explored further in the coming days between agencies and the Council.The NSW Government will continue to work with Council and the Federal Government to consider options for longer term solutions for coastal erosion. 

Central Coast Council is continuing its long-term investment in the creative future of local young people with the launch of the 2025 Creative Engineers Program.

Central Coast Council is inviting the Central Coast community to provide feedback on the future of the existing Gosford Library building in Kibble Park, Gosford.

The Central Coast community is invited to cheer on our Mariners Women’s team this Sunday via a FREE live screening at Industree Group Stadium, Gosford, as they compete for honours in The Ninja A-League Women’s Grand Final, against Melbourne Victory.The Grand Final, being hosted by Melbourne Victory, will be played in Melbourne at AAMI Park, with kick-off at 3.15pm this Sunday, 18 May 2025.

Central Coast Council resolved to adopt the motion put to Council at tonight’s (13 May 2025) Extraordinary Council Meeting relating to coastal erosion impact.The motion in part directs the CEO to immediately commence engagement with professionals to undertake assessments of the identified impacted properties at Central Coast beaches.It also includes that for properties, identified by the relevant experts, and subject to legal advice, the CEO consider giving appropriate orders under Section 124 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) for emergency coastal protection works recommended by such experts to mitigate the risk to life, property and the environment from further erosion.These orders would require the landowners to do works on their properties, at their own cost to make their land or premises safe in the face of the coastal erosion threat currently being faced.However.

Central Coast Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of walking and cycling in Avoca Beach by providing feedback on the proposed design for a new shared pathway along Avoca Drive.The project aims to deliver a 3-metre wide concrete shared pathway between the Scenic Highway and Heazlett Park, Avoca Beach, enhancing safety, accessibility and active transport options for pedestrians and cyclists.It will also include kerb and gutter upgrades, drainage improvements to help manage stormwater and pavement restoration works.Council’s Director Infrastructure Services, Boris Bolgoff said the project represents a long-awaited community priority and a major step forward in active transport planning.“This is a long-awaited project that responds to strong community demand for safer and more connected walking and cycling infrastructure,” Mr Bolgoff said.“We’ve developed the concept design based on earlier feedback and we’re now asking the community to take a look and help refine it before we move ahead.”The project will be delivered in three stages, with Stage 1 (Scenic Highway to Hillside Road) scheduled to commence construction in early 2026.Stage 2 (Hillside Road to The Round Drive) is planned to commence in late 2027.Stages 1 and 2 are funded through developer contributions, while Council continues to advocate for funding to deliver Stage 3 (The Round Drive to Heazlett Park).Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the infrastructure project delivers on Council’s commitment to building a more liveable and connected region.“This recreational infrastructure project is a great example of how Council is committed to helping the community achieve a healthy, active and sustainable lifestyle,” Mayor McKinna said.“The Avoca Drive shared pathway will make it safer and easier for people to walk, cycle and stay active, while reducing pressure on our busy road network.“I encourage everyone to review the proposed design for a new shared pathway along Avoca Drive and have your say on the Your Voice Our Coast website.”The shared pathway aligns with Council’s Bike Plan, Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan and the Community Strategic Plan, which prioritise the creation of a regional network of accessible active transport options.Have your sayView the concept design and FAQs:

Central Coast Council are providing the opportunity for local makers and creators to submit their interest in hosting exhibitions, workshop and installations at the Gallery container in Toukley over the coming financial year.Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith, is encouraging artists of all mediums to apply to be part of the Creative Spaces program for 2025-26.“Selected artists will be able to set up residence over a number of weeks and connect with the community through creative workshops, talks, and collaborations with other artists and installations throughout the year,” Ms Smith said.“Designed to foster innovation and creativity, the gallery container at Toukley Village Green provides an exciting space for selected artists to exhibit and connect with the community.“We’ve had some great artists and activations to date, and I look forward to seeing the creative ways the next group will use the space and engage with each other through art.”Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said that he is pleased to see local artists, community members, visitors and local businesses benefit from this creative initiative.“Our Creative Spaces Program enables local creatives to develop their art practice, collaborate, meet peers, and share skills and resources in a dedicated space.“I encourage local artists to host an exhibition, workshop or installation at the Gallery container in the Toukley Town Centre.

Central Coast Council’s draft Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program, Operational Plan and resourcing strategies are now on exhibition for community feedback until 2 June 2025.The plans respond to the community’s vision to “strengthen and support our community, protect our environment and create an inclusive, prosperous and accessible place to live, work and thrive, for today and for future generations".The draft Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035, ‘This is Our Future, Our Central Coast’, is a 10-year road map representing over two years of consultation and engagement and outlines community priorities under the themes of ‘Our People, Our Environment, Our Place, Our Economy and Our Leadership’.The accompanying draft four-year Delivery Program, one-year Operational Plan and resourcing strategies have been developed to enable the delivery of the community vision.