I met Carmen Cooper and Jane Hillyard not long after they’d opened their not-for-profit shop, Bowerbird Recycling, in William Street Plaza, Gosford.These incredible women have a vision to create a world where everyone thrives, and a mission to help make life more comfortable for people whose budget doesn’t extend to creating a cosy and welcoming space in their home.  Through Bowerbird Recycling, volunteers collect pre-loved items of clothing, homewares and furniture that are new, near new or in excellent condition.They then visit families in need, see what items they lack and return with goods that will transform their place into a home. The pair’s motto is ‘helping, creating, restoring’ and they’re now using their passion and skills in interior design and property styling to ensure those who need it most have surroundings where they can feel relaxed and restored - all while promoting sustainability and reducing waste.   If people don’t have anything to donate, they can still help vulnerable women and children by sponsoring a care pack of kitchen essentials or pamper items. Our Central Coast Community Champion initiative honours people who, through exceptional effort and commitment, make a difference to the lives of others. I’m sure you’ll agree that Carmen and Jane are very worthy Community Champions, and they have our gratitude and appreciation.If you know of a Community Champion, please tell me about them at themayor@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals – for free!Clear out unused, out-of-date or unwanted household chemicals laying around your home at our Chemical CleanOut events this August – a safe, free and environmentally responsible way to dispose of hazardous waste.Held over two weekends at two locations:CharmhavenSaturday 2 and Sunday 3 August 20259am-3.30pmCouncil’s Charmhaven Depot, 137 Chelmsford Rd, Charmhaven NSW 2263 (enter via Depot Road)KincumberSaturday 9 and Sunday 10 August 20259am-3.30pmFormer Kincumber Waste Management Facility on Cullens Road, Kincumber.Note:

Central Coast Council has completed car park upgrades at Rogers Park in Woy Woy and Don Small Oval in Tacoma, enhancing safety, access and parking capacity at these well-used community sportsgrounds.

Central Coast Council is seeking community feedback on its design concept for 1A Jaques Street, Ourimbah inviting comments on features they like or would like to see improved.