Central Coast Council will transition Gosford City Car Park (levels 1-5) and the Pay By Plate Parking Area (ground level) at 1 Baker Street, Gosford, to cashless payments only from 2 March 2026.The change forms part of the Smart Technology upgrade and reflects current customer behaviour, with only 2% of transactions made in cash.

Gosford CBD sites saleCouncil endorsed the execution of a contract of sale of 49 to 51 Mann Street Gosford CBD sites to the University of Newcastle.

Central Coast Council is calling on the community to help shape the future of the region, with three major strategies now open for public feedback.The Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026-2030, Draft Destination Management Plan 2026-2029 and Draft Events Strategy 2026-2030 outline a long term vision to create more opportunities for locals and enhance the Coast as a great place to live, work and visit.Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said the three strategies are designed to work together to guide the region’s long-term direction.“These strategies set the direction for economic growth, tourism and events.

The Lakes Festival is back for 2026! The Lakes Festival is back for 2026 and will be held from 6 November to 15 November 2026.We are looking for organisations and businesses to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to help us build The Lakes Festival program for 2026 with a range of fun and innovative activities and events.

Central Coast Council announced the winners of the 2026 Australia Day Awards last night at Wyong Art House, with the overall Citizen of the Year Award going to Kerry Ann Groves for her outstanding commitment as a volunteer at San Remo Neighbourhood Centre for over 15 years.The Australia Day Awards were open to applicants from across the Central Coast region, with all nominees having the chance to be named as the prestigious, Central Coast Citizen of the Year.The individual awards span the following categories: Community Group AwardCommunity Life Award Senior Citizen Award Volunteer Award Young Person Award Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said these annual awards celebrate and recognise those who enrich and serve the community. “It’s a privilege to present these awards to remarkable local individuals and organisations, recognising the invaluable contributions they make to our community and the positive effect they have on many lives,” Mayor McKinna said.“My congratulations go to all the 2026 award recipients and nominees.

Routine water quality monitoring has detected elevated bacteria levels at Ettalong Beach.

Playspaces are such an important part of life in our community.

Update:

Looking for local youth, aged 14-24, to volunteer at the bi-monthly Coast Swap community clothes swap events. Gain skills, make friends, help keep clothes out of landfill…and re-fresh your wardrobe!Build your skills.

Natural disasters can happen quickly.The best protection against natural disasters - such as bushfires, floods, and storms - is being prepared. Now is the time to plan and pack for emergency events.📝 Take the time this holiday season to create an emergency plan🎒Make sure your emergency kit is packed and ready to ‘grab and go’🏡Prepare your property and ensure you have the right insurance coverage🤝 Build connections with your neighbours and share your emergency plans.Download these key apps now to be prepared:📲  Hazards Near Me NSW – receive notifications when a natural disaster is approaching you 🌦️BOM Weather – Check for weather forecasts and warnings and set up notifications 🚗