CCBA - December - January 2023

The amazing journey of a Coast family business SUCCESS JUICE

WHEN Samuel J Lentini was named the Outstanding young Business Leader at the Central Coast Business Awards it was a fitting tribute to the amazing growth of

one of the region’s best known family businesses. Set In the rolling hills of Kulnura on George Downes Drive, Eastcoast Beverages produces the famous range of Eastcoast Juices and Samuel

J is managing director. He carries the ‘J’ with his name because his cousin and company director is Samuel ‘L’ Lentini. He is the successful face of the third generation of a local family business that

has grown to become a major player and can be found on the supermarket shelves of Coles, Woolworths, I GA , Spar, Foodworks, Drakes Stores and many other stockists. Full story: 14.

Family business at Eastcoast Beverage.

Our Kate named business best

THE Central Coast’s rising star Kate Toon has been named Australia’s Most Influential Woman in Small Business at the Australian Women’s Small Business Champions Awards 2022 Kate is the founder of Stay Tooned, a company that sits well outside the traditional business “square”.

More than 1000 people attended the gala awards night which was held at The Star Sydney.

The inaugural national awards program recognises Australian small businesswomen achieving excellence.

The awards received more than 2500 entries in total, with 30 finalists in the Champion Influential Woman category.

Kate, from Umina Beach, operates digital businesses including The Clever Copywriting School, Digital Masterchefs and Recipe for SEO Success, which offer courses, memberships, resources, training and mentoring to thousands of small businesses in Australia and internationally.

No stranger to awards success, Kate was also named the Businesswoman of the Year at the national My Business

Awards and was included in the Top 50 Small Business Leaders of 2022 by Inside Small Business magazine, along with achieving many other regional, national and international accolades. Operating a seven-figure business

from her ‘Toon Cave’

Women’s Small Business Champions Awards 2022, in recognition of her courses and education offerings, including her Recipe for SEO Success courses which have helped more than 12,000 other businesses grapple the Google beast.

Of her win, Kate said: “This is a win for all the misfit entrepreneurs working smart, day after day, to achieve their small business dreams. My business is not an overnight success, it’s the result of 14 years of persistence, innovation and determination.

“But I’m still here, turning up and supporting my community every day. While I don’t see myself as an influencer I think my honest sharing about the highs and woes of my business does have a positive impact.

”

the skills, wisdom and connections they need to thrive in a digital business world.

Kate was also a finalist in the Education Services category at the Australian

Steve Loe, Managing Director of Precedent Productions and founder of the awards said: “Wee’re seeing more and more women create and take up leadership positions throughout the small business community. The time has come to accelerate visibility of the incredible entrepreneurial spirit that so many women in small business display.”

Plan backs Coast night-time economy

ENCOURAGING more diverse housing, prioritising infrastructure delivery, and revitalising the night-time economy are features of an updated vision for the Central Coast. Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts released the finalised Central Coast Regional Plan which will guide the region’s future over the next 20 years and responds to community feedback. “With the re-

gion’s population expected to grow by almost 57,000 by 2041, there’s no surprise this booming community is facing housing pressures,” Mr Roberts said. Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said the plan includes initiatives to promote sustainability, improve the night-time economy, and enhance connections to public space. To view the blueprint, visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/centralcoast2041

backyard shed, Kate employs a fully remote team of staff and contractors and aims to provide her community of business owners and entrepreneurs with

Steve Loe

Kate Toon

neWS

THE GREAT POTHOLES WAR

Council is winning the battle

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

CENTRAL Coast Council is finally winning the war against potholes after a dry spell on the battlefield –our roads.

The invasion of the potholes began after some of the wettest months ever recorded on the Coast and the innocent civilian victims were the motorists of our region.

Better weather is now paving the way for more permanent road repairs with 30,000 sqm already completed.

Armed with the latest equipment, Council frontline troops have been busy taking advantage of the recent periods of improved weather to roll out more permanent road repairs across the region’s road network.

Council Director Infrastructure Services Boris Bolgoff said a flexible approach had been necessary to address the significant impacts from this year’s flooding events and consistent heavy rainfall.

“When it’s raining only temporary pothole repair works can be undertaken, which is why potholes can reappear within only weeks of repair,’ he said.

‘Longer term solutions can be undertaken when there’s periods of dry weather. This include heavy patching, where a whole section of a road is treated to repair and prevent potholes and road damage,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“Our crews have been ready and the roll out of the priority works program is

well underway.

“So far, 30,000sqm of heavy patching has been completed on our roads - which is equivalent to the size of 19 football fields. Our crews and contractors are continuing to carry out further heavy patching each day as the weather allows.”

Highlights of heavy patching works recently completed, include:

• Hillview St Woy Woy – recently completed.

Dog Trap Rd, Somersby – in progress.

• Bias Av, Bateau Bay – in progress.

• Treelands Dve, Jilliby – in progress Showground Rd, Gosford – starting soon.

• Sherlock Lane, Tumbi Umbi - starting soon.

As part of the yearly Capital Works Program, Council allocates funding to undertake an extensive Road Renewal Program. This long-term solution

includes the rehabilitation and resurfacing of the road , which requires a longer period of suitable weather conditions to complete each set of works.

Crews recently completed scheduled road renewal works at:

• Kincumber Crescent, Davistown.

• Leonard St, Toukley.

• Tuggerawong Rd, Tuggerawong.

During wet and dry weather pothole patching will continue to be undertaken to ensure the roadway remains safe, and until more permanent works can be carried out.

Administrator Rik Hart said it remains a priority of Council to maintain and improve the local road network and a commitment of funds and resources continues.

“A large percentage of Council’s operating budget is invested in roads each year and following our improved financial position we’ve also allocated an

extra $2.5millon in road maintenance to further boost local road repairs,’” Mr Hart said.

“We recently welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement that it will invest $50m to help regional and rural Councils fix the increasing number of potholes brought on by this year’s extreme wet weather.

“Council has also held discussions with Transport for NSW and has applied for funding to assist the region.”

Reporting potholes

If you have a pothole to report, Council wants to know about it. While Council proactively inspects the road pavement to identify any damage, it wants residents and visitors to report any potholes and other safety concerns to Council. These can be easily and quickly lodged at any time through Council’s online Customer Service Centre or by calling Customer Service during business hours on 4306 7900.

Capital Works map

To view this financial year’s road and drainage capital works projects and their status, view Council’s interactive online map at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

SUCCESS AT NSW BUSINESS AWARDS

LEP Digital wins leadership title

TOP businesses from around NSW have been recognised for their excellence in the face of a challenging economic environment at the2022 Business NSW Business Awards with Central Coast companies LEP Digital and Aussie Ark taking out awards.

The state’s peak business organisation, Business NSW, honoured winners from all over the state at a black-tie event in Sydney.

“With an impressive line-up of businesses from around NSW vying for their State Categories, it was exciting to see Laura Prael, Managing Director of LEP Digital take out the Outstanding Business Leader Award and Hayley Shute from Aussie Ark take out the Outstanding Employee Award.” Business NSWS enior Director Regions and Visitor Economy Paula Martin said.

“Both categories are hotly contested, and it is a tribute to see both these leaders win.

“The Central Coast is a thriving business community with access to incredible talent and large markets close by. It is exciting to see young businesses like LEP Digital and Aussie Ark take advantage of

this environment to be experts in their field.

The evening showcased excellence of business leaders who have gone above and beyond with respect to innovation, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and leadership.

Business of the Year went to Zepto Payments, founded in Byron Bay in 2017. The payments technology company

enables businesses to make, manage and receive payments in real time by connecting them directly to their customers’ bank accounts.

Outstanding Business Leader for 2022 went to Laura Prael, Director and Founder of LEP Digital based on tyhe4 Coast, who was announced by the presenter in her category as ‘a popular choice’ based on the crowd’s reaction to her nomination.

On the night, Laura was supported by her team and their partners, the Business NSW – Central Coast team, led by Paula Martin, as well as a host of Central Coast businesses and Regional Leaders.

In Laura’s speech, she said how proud she was of building business in her region and its active business community.

“At LEP Digital, we provide technical career opportunities for women where opportunities are limited,” Laura said.

“We’ve created an inclusive, diverse, flexible, and psychologically safe workplace that puts employee needs first.”

“I know how much this award means to me and my team. Thank you for recognising me in this prestigious program.”

Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter

said the awarded businesses have gone above and beyond with respect to innovation, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and leadership.

“It’s great to see so many businesses displaying such impressive forward-thinking to tackle the needs of NSW communities,” Mr Hunter said.

About Laura Prael, LEP Digital

Laura Prael is an accomplished entrepreneur, digital marketer, copywriter and speaker, and a champion for equality, education, and the environment. Laura leads and mentors a high-performing team at LEP Digital, which she founded in 2015, using her empathetic, collaborative and enthusiastic leadership style which has contributed to her content marketing agency’s success.

About Business NSW

Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826. Its annual Business Awards program recognises growth, entrepreneurship and celebrates business success across NSW.

Pothole repairs on the Coast.

Woinner: Laura Prael, Managing Director of LEP Digital.

Coast’s major tourist attraction

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

HALF a century of talk, disappointment and planning for Gosford’s waterfront is suddenly seeing the light of day thanks to Central Coast Council.

The Waterfront concept plan will turn a backwater near the railway line into a topclass tourist attraction.

Council developed a concept plan for the Gosford waterfront following the adoption of the Gosford Waterfront Renewal Framework in 2021.

The Gosford waterfront has been the subject of many studies and plans and there are many technical, financial, social and environmental complexities that need to be worked through.

Council has worked through a number of these with key stakeholders including the Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council, Greater Cities Commission TAFE and University of Newcastle.

Now Council has presented the plan to the community for their feedback.

The Gosford waterfront revitalisation concept plan has entered its second month of consultation with several thousand people so far contributing their thoughts and opinions on the design through Central Coast Council’s engagement program.

Community consultation opened in October and already the message from the community is clear: ‘ the time is right to connect the Gosford CBD to an activated waterfront’.

Administrator Rik Hart is encouraged by the support to date from Government, the community and other stakeholders to progress this significant regional project, noting NSW Labor has committed $8.5m to support feasibility studies of the waterfront concept plan.

“There is a growing appetite to see Gosford reach its potential by connecting the waterfront to the city, activating the city’s education and health opportunities and amenities, and creating a place for people on the Central Coast.”

Mr Hart urged people to take part in the engagement process saying he was delighted to see the wide range of people who had already contributed including a school group.

“Whether you already live, or would like to live, on the Central Coast, or are a regular visitor, we’re keen to hear from you. Already there have been a range of questions asked, and we welcome an opportunity to answer these questions.

“This major revitalisation project will boost jobs and economic growth across the Central Coast and the community’s feedback is vital to ensure the best possible outcome for everyone is achieved from this long-term project,” Mr Hart said.

Central Coast Council CEO David Farmer said the business case in the adopted waterfront concept plan, demonstrated a strong return on investment for a government partner to work with the private sector to bring this vision to reality.

“The NSW Government has nominated Gosford as the region’s principal city, to integrate precinct planning for

the waterfront, arts and entertainment, city core, railway, education and hospital precincts, upgrades to the stadium and the NSW Government’s fast rail proposal,” Mr Farmer said.

“Gosford waterfront is the integrating factor connecting these opportunities to become one coherent, vibrant, beautiful place.

“It connects the CBD to the water to unlock new economic and cultural

potential by optimising investments in health and education, supporting improved education opportunities, providing local jobs, opportunities for local businesses, significant cultural events, and more.

“Council has worked hard in recent years to develop this framework and we look forward to building on this groundswell of support,” Mr Farmer said. The community can help shape the

future of the Gosford waterfront by:

• Viewing the concept plan.

Reading the frequently asked questions.

• Registering for a virtual drop-in information session.

Contributing to and joining the conversation on the interactive concept plan and sharing ideas, suggestions and opinions.

Providing feedback via the online feedback form.

“In adopting the concept plan, Council has laid the foundations for the revitalisation, having drawn on previous work including the Gosford Challenge and collaborated with the Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council, Greater Cities Commission, Crown Lands, TAFE, The University of Newcastle and other important stakeholders.”

In September NSW Labor committed to providing the funding to complete the necessary preliminary feasibility studies for the revitalisation. Mr Hart said given the significance of this project to the region, he believes it warrants bipartisan support.

“Now it’s time for a government partner to commit to deliver the project and create the outcome for our region envisioned by the Greater Cities Commission in its Six Cities Vision.

“We will continue our extensive stakeholder engagement program until December 1. Our next task is to take all the feedback into consideration and see how we might refine the concept in response to this feedback.”

Community consultation on the project is closes in December. To have your say visit: www.yourvoiceourcoast.com/gosfordwaterfront. The feedback received by Council from the community and stakeholders on the concept plan will inform the development of a detailed masterplan in the future.

Artist impressions of the redeveloped waterfront and below, Council CEO, David Farmer.

TV STAR FIGHTS FOR LIFE-CHANGING CAUSE

Support for Coast Shelter services

CENTRAL Coast local Jackson Lonie - best known as a participant from ‘Married at First Sight’ 2022 – proudly presented a cheque to prominent Central Coast charity, Coast Shelter, on Wednesday, November 23.

Jackson - best known as a participant from ‘Married at First Sight’ 2022 - not only stepped into the ring of the much-publicised boxing match in Melbourne last month to challenge himself and won his match against his opponent and fellow ‘MAFS’ alumni Sam Carraro, he also won the fight in honour of continuing the real fight and cause of homelessness and domestic violence on the NSW Central Coast, by raising much needed funds which went directly to the charity of his choice, Coast Shelter.

Coast Shelter is a not-for-profit organisation on the Central Coast which focuses on providing services and

support programs for the homeless, as well as those dealing with domestic and family violence.

their aim is to ‘break the cycle of poverty and intergenerational despair and disadvantage.’

“Thank you so much to Jackson, and the RoJo Consulting team, for your contribution to Coast Shelter,” said Krissy Stapleton, Marketing Communications Manager at Coast Shelter.

“As the leading homelessness and domestic violence service on the Central Coast, without people like Jackson raising awareness and fundraising on our behalf, we would not be able to do what we do,” she added.

The cheque presentation was held at G-Six Boxing, the Central Coast owned and operated gym, which was also a donation sponsor.

Jackson, who has been very open in talking about his own family experience with domestic violence, raised $1900 towards the charity to “give back to the community”, and raise awareness for the plight of those in need.

“I want to give that money to a good cause, and I thought, what better cause than something that I’ve been through and something that really resonates with me,” Jackson explained in an interview with Yahoo Australia last month.

“It’s kind of hard because it’s [a charity against] domestic violence, and it’s a boxing match,” he acknowledged.

For their part, Coast Shelter recognised his commitment to the cause, and therefore saw the alignment, with Jackson referring to what he stood for.

“They were like, ‘look, you’re fighting for awareness of this which is amazing, so we do want to back you and we’d love for you to help us out’. So that’s what I’m doing it for and I’m fighting for that,” Jackson told Yahoo Australia.

Post event, Jackson has expressed his joy for not only the cause, and the difference even a small amount can make to the charity. “Any impact I can make, makes me happy,” added Jackson.

Support for taxi license holders

THE NSW Government has presented a final assistance package to NSW taxi license holders, offering the most generous assistance payments in Australia worth $905M. The extra cash injection will see the passenger service levy (PSL) increase by 20 cents to $1.20 (ex GST) and be extended to 2030. The package is more than double the compensation offered by the Victorian Government and more than nine times the package offered by the Queensland Government, says the Government. This now takes the total assistance package, designed

to help fully deregulate the industry, from $645M to $905M. The new package provides $150,000 for every Sydney metropolitan taxi license holder with a cap of six plates. Each regional taxi plate will be paid between $40,000 and $195,000, with no cap on the number of plates. Should the final package not be accepted, legislation will not be introduced. A Government appointed review will then be launched to assess a compensation package, based on the existing passenger service levy.

Jackson Lonie at Coast Shelter.

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

ONCE the bastions of Australian society, traditional banks are now on the nose with customers according to new research.

The days when everyone knew their local bank manager and it was one of the most prized jobs from Bondi to Bullamakanka are now over.

And our abandonment of loyalty means we are switching to online choices much quicker than anticipated.

Just released research shows that three in four Aussie customers are losing trust in banks and would switch to less costly online financial services

The new research suggests that consumers have a limit to the level of interest rates, fees and charges they can take before they lose trust in their banking providers.

Nearly three quarters of Australians say they have lost at least some trust in banks based on high interest rates and fees and 74% would consider switching their accounts, loans or transactions to more affordable online services.

Money Transfer Comparison, a comparison website that enables Australian individuals and businesses to source the best money transfer rates, commissioned a survey of an independent panel of 1009 Australians to gauge whether

high loan interest rates and fees have caused Australians to lose trust in the banks.

The survey found that 42% of respondents have lost trust in some bank services and 28 % have lost trust in traditional banks as the best platform for all their financial undertakings.

A higher proportion at 75% of respondents are willing to switch their financial undertakings to these non-traditional services, when they believe their banks are charging too much.

Even before the RBA began raising interest rates in May 2022, banks were increasing fixed-rate loans in anticipation of ongoing cash rate increases. Some loan interest rates are sitting 4-5% higher than the current RBA cash rate of 2.85%.

72% of respondents said they’d lost trust

Banks also charge wire fees of up to $40 for international money transfers and often higher exchange rates than

specialist online money transfer platforms. Missed payments on bank loans and credit cards, and overdrawn accounts, incur fees of up to $15.

Specialist, alternative online financial services – such as money transfer platforms – can often be much more cost-effective options.

When comparing the results across the States, Money Transfer Comparison found that a relatively higher proportion of NSW and Victorian residents – who are likely paying off the largest mortgages in Australia - have lost trust in the big banks due to their high fees.

An equal 72% of respondents in each State have lost trust, followed by 71% of Queenslanders and West Australians and just 60% of South Australians.

Younger age groups are more likely to have lost at least some level of trust in traditional banking: 74% of 18-54-yearolds, compared with 58%t of over-65 respondents.

When comparing age-based responses, the highest proportion of respondents likely to look for cheaper financial services elsewhere are in the 35-54-year age bracket at 80%. This was followed by 73% of 18-34-year-olds and only 67% of over-55 respondents.

Full survey data: https://moneytransfercomparison.com/australia-info/bank-high-rates-rates. html

Delivering for Central Coast Businesses

How The Liberal-National NSW Government Continues To Support Our Region’s Innovation and Ingenuity

As we round out a highly successful calendar year, I would like to take the opportunity to celebrate how the NSW Government has, and continues to, support regional businesses. The Central Coast is in a unique position, particularly given its proximity to Sydney, to prosper as a regional capital. By investing in local businesses, innovation, and initiatives, we are investing in a stable future and highly profitable economy.

There are several opportunities available to businesses of any size to take advantage of the NSW Government’s grant funding, community programs, and rebates.

SafeWork NSW Small Business Rebate

If you are a small business owner in NSW, then this $1000 rebate is for you. Administered by SafeWork NSW, this rebate is designed to support small businesses to purchase safety items which ensure workplace health and safety. Any business who has fewer than 50 full-time employees and an ABN are eligible to apply.

This is a fantastic initiative which promotes the wellbeing of employees, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to safety. It demonstrates that our Liberal-National Government is committed to ensuring the longevity of small businesses.

Become a Provider for Your Community

As cost of living provides a growing challenge for families, your business can become part of the solution. The NSW Government is presenting an opportunity for businesses to establish themselves as providers for a variety of schemes.

The well-established Seniors Card can promote your business to over 1.9 million seniors. By offering discounts on products and services, seniors with an eligible Seniors Card or Senior Savers Card can redeem at point of purchase. Your business will then be advocated as part of the scheme and listed as part of the online tool, as well as showcased in the annual Seniors Card Directory. The scheme encompasses food and beverage, recreation, travel and accommodation, retail, and other professional services. The widespread uptake of this scheme is attributable to its breadth and sheer variety.

This scheme is available to any business in NSW with a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN). I strongly encourage all businesses to engage with this scheme. It is a great opportunity to expand your reach in the community, inviting seniors to become part of your clientele.

The Active Kids and Creative Kids voucher scheme follows a similar model of $50 per child per scheme. For the Active Kids vouchers, the business must offer a regular, moderate to intense level of physical activity in a structured program of at least 8 weeks’ duration. It allows families to reimburse costs such as registration fees, membership fees, and participation fees. Similarly, the Creative Kids voucher can be redeemed

at art classes, workshops, music/drama groups, language schools, or any creative endeavour. Eligible projects must be structured to deliver clear creative skill development in a practical setting. Both vouchers are fantastic opportunities to involve the greater community in your business; participation in such schemes ensures that your product or service is more attractive than a competitor who is not participating.

The newest addition to this suite of voucher-based systems are Back to School vouchers. Three $50 vouchers, totalling $150, are available for each eligible child. This can be used to purchase uniforms or school supplies, meaning businesses that sell such products can attract increased clientele by signing on as a provider. This is a great opportunity for businesses to promote themselves in the community, again enticing and expanding your customer base. From December of 2022, businesses can accept vouchers.

Registration is currently available from the Service NSW site for all vouchers.

Supporting Women in Business

Empowering women is a priority of the NSW Government. Encouraging engagement with the workplace, supporting return to work, and providing resources to educate women is business is a key part of this vision.

Through Service NSW, women looking to begin, run and grow their business can access funding, education, and establish networks, to succeed. For example, women in business can access fully subsidised online programs to assist in the establishment of a business or manage a current business. They can speak to real mentors, connecting with other businesswomen, investors, and industry communities to launch their new career. This is an incredible opportunity which I implore women interested or involved in business to take advantage of.

Disaster Support for Affected Businesses

Recent weather events have undoubtedly challenged our community, particularly in low lying areas of the Central Coast region. I strongly encourage local businesses affected by either the February/March, June/July, or August/September flooding to check their eligibility for business support. Disaster assistance is key to ensure businesses can re-establish themselves after such a major setback.

Packages including Disaster Relief Loans for Primary Producers of up to $130,000 in concessional loans, or Storm and Flood Disaster Recovery for Small Business Grant, valued at up to $50,000, are available to eligible enterprises. I strongly encourage your business to engage with these packages if you have

been affected by recent tumultuous weather. Further information is available on the Service NSW Website.

NSW Business Connect: Showcasing Your Small Business

Another outstanding opportunity for regional Central Coast small businesses is the NSW Government’s Business Connect. This is a dedicated, personalised government program which provides independent advice, information and resources, and event dates to support businesses to begin, adapt and grow.

One-on-one advisory sessions with independent professionals who have a wealth of experience running their own business, key qualifications, and advisory experience could be precisely what your business needs to advance.

From conception to delivery, the team can assist in developing and evaluating your business plan. For established businesses, they can provide guidance and practical tips on a wide variety of areas, including business planning, growing a digital presence, managing finances, and cyber security.

I cannot speak highly enough of this resource. It has demonstrated capacity to better support your business endeavours. Further information regarding Business Connect, and other avenues of NSW Government support is available on the Service NSW website.

Adam Crouch

Authorised by Dr. Gordon Reid MP, Australian Labor Party, Level 3, 69 Central Coast Highway, West Gosford NSW.

We’re delivering for the Central Coast

„ DR GORDON REID

AFTER six months of the Albanese Labor Government, we have wasted no time getting down to the business of building a better future for Australia and the Central Coast.

As the new Member for Robertson, it has been an honour and privilege meeting with so many amazing businesses, organisations, and individuals that make our Central Coast such a strong and dynamic region.

For example, recently I visited NAISDA, the world-renowned arts and dance college, right here on the Central Coast. I was there to officially announce the federal government’s commitment to invest $5 million towards its expansion and for the support of additional developing artists.

This excellent investment will ensure greater capacity in one of our region’s premier cultural and First Nations institutions.

This is exactly the type of nation building that creates a better future in our regions across Australia and I commend NAISDA for its high-quality education of our First Nations’ students.

Representing you in our federal parliament has been an incredible experience and I have appreciated advocating to Ministers including the Prime Minister on behalf of my constituents.

Our region has secured some excellent wins in the first six months of this new government, and I am proud to have been a part of delivering on these results for the Central Coast.

As an emergency doctor having worked in both Wyong and Gosford emergency departments, I am passionate about improving healthcare across the Central Coast.

I am acutely aware that people in our region are finding it hard to book in to see a GP and access healthcare.

funding for every pre-election commitment that I made during the 2022 Federal Election.

Of note, is the funding for much-needed infrastructure projects that will support the economic growth of the Central Coast and our quality of life. During the election, I doorknocked, and phone called thousands of people.

The number one issue that would get raised with me was the condition of our region’s local road infrastructure. As a local, I understood and took immediate action.

I worked hard to secure a $40M Central Coast local roads package, alongside my colleague The Hon. Emma McBride MP.

Of course, there is more to be done to build a better future on the Central Coast. Our region is expected to grow to more than 400,000 people by the year 2041.

Our region will require more housing, jobs, services, and infrastructure to meet the challenges this growth will pose, and I will never waver in my representation to get the attention of region deserves.

Importantly, I am a huge supporter of Gosford and its potential. The waterfront offers Gosford and our region the opportunity to re-invent itself as a thriving regional city, just like Newcastle has done with its waterfront.

reclassified a distribution priority area

Coast has been

In response to this growing issue, the Albanese Labor Government has reclassified the entire Central Coast a distribution priority area.

This means that general practices will be able to draw from a greater pool of available doctors. This policy change will ensure the Central Coast can secure more doctors for our region, because no one in Australia should have to schedule to be sick or wait weeks until they can see a doctor.

Strong and accessible primary healthcare is critical, essential, and is preventative healthcare.

Primary healthcare and the Central Coast’s health system are areas that I will continue to strengthen during my term and in my role as co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of General Practice.

Further, our Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are powering forward and negotiations are now underway to identify

suitable locations. The Central Coast will receive two Medicare Urgent Care Clinics; one in the south and one in the north.

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are gamechangers and will mean greater access to bulk-billed GPs, with extended opening hours.

The Albanese Government is committed to rolling Medicare Urgent Care Clinics out across the nation, and I will continue working inside the government to deliver practical solutions to strengthen our healthcare system and solve the issues that are holding it back.

In the first federal budget to be handed down by the Albanese Labor Government, I am pleased to have secured

I am proud to say that Central Coast Council will now use this funding to resurface and repair some of the Coast’s worst local roads over the coming months.

More investment in improving Avoca Drive

Coupled with this $40M is our investment in Avoca Drive. Residents in Kincumber and surrounding communities of Empire Bay, Bensville, Copacabana, Hardys Bay, Killcare, to name a few, will know that during peak morning and afternoon periods, Avoca Drive through Kincumber becomes a slow crawl.

$30M has now been put aside to begin critical planning work to begin an upgrade of this important transport route.

This upgrade will mean quicker journey times and less time stuck in traffic. These investments will support the continued economic growth of our region and improve the quality of life for Coasties.

The Gosford waterfront can be a major tourist draw card and support thousands of new jobs. Similarly, it can provide new open spaces, modern restaurants, bars, and recreational places for Central Coast residents to visit and enjoy.

I would strongly encourage residents to have their say on Gosford’s future to ensure plans meet the expectations and needs of all people in our region.

Over my term, I will always focus on delivering better infrastructure and services across the Central Coast, and ensure every town and suburb receives its fair share. The Central Coast is an amazing region of Australia and has a strong future ahead.

I will work every day making sure that our region stays on track and remains an outstanding place to live, work, and realise your potential.

I would like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and happy and safe new year period.

Dr Gordon Reid is Member for Robertson.

Coast health care is a priority.

Dr Gordon Reid.

The NEW-AGE pelican experience

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

THE days of the famed Pelican Feed at The Entrance may be over, but ‘new age’ pelicans will soon be entertaining visitors.

The original Pelican Feed started more than 30 years ago when the staff of a local fish and chips shop fed scraps to the birds daily.

The pelicans began demanding their food from the staff and the feeding was taken over by Jimbo’s Quality Seafoods.

As part of The Entrance’s revitalisation program, in 1996 a feeding platform was developed with the support of major sponsors and Town Centre Management making it possible to feed the pelicans fresh fish 365 days of the year rain hail or shine.

Apart from entertaining the tourists, the feeding had other benefits. There were often injuries caused to the pelicans due to rubbish such as plastic bags, fishing lines and hooks and the volunteers were able to keep a watchful eye

out during the daily feeding and capture sick pelicans to remove tangled lines and ensure the birds remain healthy.

Flash forward to post covid The Entrance and the suspended Pelican Feed is now closed.

Council is currently reviewing applicants in response to a call for tenders to operate an educationally focused, environmentally friendly and sustainable Pelican Experience at The Entrance.

The long-term view is to deliver a unique local and visitor experience focusing on education and the natural

environment that works with the natural feeding behaviors of pelicans, in a sustainable and Eco-friendly way.

An announcement will be made once the review is finalised. Meanwhile, the modern face of pelican progress is on display at The Entrance for the next 12 months.

The project, featuring eight remarkable Pelican sculptures initiated by Central Coast Council, but led by school

children on the Coast give pelicans a whole new image.

Project Pelican is a fusion of environmental education and creative art to inspire students and the community to connect with the challenges and solutions involved in protecting and restoring the Tuggerah Lakes estuary.

Developed and delivered by Council’s Estuary Management team, in collaboration with Rumbalara Environmental Education Centre, with funding from the Australian Government, the project has involved art students in years nine and 10, from eight secondary schools.

The aim of The Project Pelican is to help students increase their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the Tuggerah Lakes system and what is needed to protect and restore this fragile environment.

The Pelican Project is seen as an opportunity to bring the community and Council together to share the challenges of managing a sensitive coastal lake and to empower and inspire people to help make a change.

Steps for dealing with IR changes

BUSINESSES are being encouraged to take four steps to prepare themselves for flagged changes to Australia’s industrial relations system, after the bill passed the Senate.

Business NSW Senior Director Regions, Paula Martin said businesses need to prepare for these changes as soon as possible.

“Whilst Business NSW advocated against many of these changes, as NSW’s peak body for business, we will now help and guide small and medium businesses to navigate these changes,” Ms Martin said.

Employment Minister Tony Burke and ACT Senator David Pocock this week struck a deal on the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Bill.

“Unions have the power to force multiple, barely connected employers to the bargaining table and employers will be sent to the Fair Work Commission to arbitrate over flexible work conditions.

“As a result of these changes, businesses will be required to spend significantly more time dealing with industrial relations issues. Disputes which would otherwise be handled between employers and unions would be quickly referred to compulsory arbitration., Ms Martin said.

“Whilst we maintain our objection to this legislation in its current form, enterprises need to get out in front of this issue.”

Ms Martin said businesses need to:

• Change their approach to using fixed term or maximum term contracts, as the ability to use these without appointing permanently is likely to be significantly limited in future.

• Guarantee that pay secrecy clauses – which prevent employees talking about their salaries – are removed from contracts going forward; Ensure they have robust protocols in place around responding to flexible work requests, including working from home, so they are not dealt with flippantly. Responding to these requests requires compliance with a prescriptive process and companies need to ensure they have objective reasons to support any refusals to accept flexible working requests.

• Seek strategic advice in relation to enterprise bargaining, which is likely to be significantly increased in many sectors under the new laws. With the introduction of

multi-employer bargaining across businesses in an industry, businesses need to consider what steps they can take to insulate their existing employment arrangements from being replaced with an industry-wide industrial instrument.

Australian Business Lawyers & Advisors (ABLA), owned by Business NSW, Luis Izzo, ABLA’s Sydney Workplace Managing Director, said: “Businesses need to recognise that we are moving back to an arbitration-based system that reflects the industrial relations framework from pre-2006.”

“In an arbitration-based world, there will be a greater focus on compromise and ensuring that employer positions on workplace disputes (whether they relate to bargaining or flexible working) are sound and defensible.

“Otherwise, businesses will face outcomes being imposed on them by a third party, being the Fair Work Commission,” Mr Izzo said.

Labor promises fairer rent rules

THE Entrance MP David Mehan has called for fairer rental rules for renters on the Central Coast by providing more certainty as well as reducing the upfront moving costs for renters.

He said a NSW Labor Government would allow renters to directly transfer bonds from one property to another. These changes will also provide greater clarity on the circumstances in which a lease can end.

“A NSW Labor Government would streamline the rental bond process to allow renters to directly transfer bonds from one property to another, while ensuring owners still have access to funds they may need,“ Mr Mehan said.

Currently, many renters must find thousands of dollars for a bond for a new property before their existing bond has been refunded. This leaves renters out of pocket up to several thousand dollars, for up to several weeks. It places many renters in financial stress and forces some to take

out personal loans.

Mr Mehan said Labor would clearly outline the grounds on which a lease may be terminated and in effect bring an end to no-ground evictions.

“A NSW Labor Government will work closely with stakeholder and advocacy groups to develop a list of reasonable grounds for an owner to end a tenancy, including minimum notice to vacate a property,” he said.

Owners will retain common sense rights to evict those who are breaking the law, damaging property or not paying rent.

Reasonable grounds for eviction are already in place in Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and the ACT – and these changes would modernise New South rental laws.

Median rent in the state has increase almost ten per cent between 2016 and 2021 – from $386 to $420. There are over 8,000 renters in The Entrance electorate who pay are paying a median rent of $546.

More than 39% of tenanted households in NSW were in rental stress. They had rent payments greater than 30%of household income.

Paula Martin.

David Mehan.

The Entrance pelican experience 2022 style.

Working for the business community

„ EMMA MCBRIDE

WE’RE nearing the end of 2022 and it’s been a big year for the Central Coast.

It’s also been a year when the Coast voted for a change of government.

And, after being sworn in following the May election, we hit the ground running and passed several key bills in Parliament.

We passed our Aged Care Reform Bill, enshrined our emissions reduction targets into law, and made medicines cheaper under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

We also handed down our first Budget and it delivers on our election commitments for the Coast.

Labor’s First Budget

As part of the Budget, we are delivering $17.14M for a Food Manufacturing Hub at Lisarow.

We have a strong history of manufacturing on the Coast, especially in food and beverage, and we want to grow our local industry for the future.

This project will create over 280 local jobs, drive economic growth in the region and help us expand our unique food and beverage market.

Dr. Gordon Reid and I are determined to work with the business community

and with industry to make sure the Coast has a strong local economy and secure jobs for the future.

In our first Budget, we are also providing a Medicare-funded MRI licence for Wyong Hospital.

As a pharmacist of over 20 years who worked at Wyong Hospital, I know what this will mean to our community.

It will mean people have access to affordable, lifesaving medical scans, close to home.

An MRI machine was recently delivered to Wyong Hospital and will be operational by the end of the year.

Roads Funding

One of the biggest issues people raise with me is the condition of our roads.

We have some of the worst roads in NSW and after recent weather events, our roads have even more portholes and hazards than ever before.

That’s why we’re delivering $40M in our first Budget to upgrade local roads across the Coast to improve safety, ease congestion, and reduce the cost of wear and tear on our cars.

The Coast deserves better roads, and we will deliver.

We want to make sure we have a strong local economy, secure jobs for the future, and investment in local infrastructure.

This is what we’ve delivered in our first six months in government.

Now, as we look towards 2023, we are determined to work together across all levels of government and with our local community, to do what’s best for the Coast.

Because the Central Coast is a priority for the Albanese Government.

One of the biggest issues people raise with me is the condition of our roads

We have some of the worst roads in NSW and after recent weather events, there are more potholes and hazards on our roads

That’s why we’re delivering a $40 million roads package for the Coast, to improve safety, ease congestion and reduce the cost of wear and tear on our cars

Our Economy

The Coast has a strong history of manufacturing, especially in food and beverage, but we need to grow our local industry for the future

That’s why Labor is investing $17.14 million to build a Food Manufacturing Hub at Lisarow

This hub will create over 280 local jobs, drive economic growth in the region, and help us expand our unique food and beverage market

with Emma McBride

Authorised by Emma McBride MP - Australian Labor Party 204/1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259

We're delivering a Food Manufacturing Hub for the Coast

Minister Ed Husic and industry leaders on site at the future Food Manufacturing Hub

Local Roads

We're investing $40M to upgrade local roads across the Coast.

Emma McBride is Federal Member for Dobell and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health.

Emma McBride and Member for Robertson, Dr. Gordon Reid examining the Government’s Budget papers.

Was born a business legacy

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

WHEN Samuel J Lentini was named the Outstanding young Business Leader at the Central Coast Business Awards it was a fitting tribute to the amazing growth of one of the region’s best known family businesses.

Set In the rolling hills of Kulnura on George Downes Drive, Eastcoast Beverages produces the famous range of Eastcoast Juices and Samuel J is Managing Director. He carries the ‘J’ with his name because his cousin and company director is Samuel ‘L’ Lentini.

He is the successful face of the third generation of a local family business that has grown to become a major player on the national stage and can be found on the supermarket shelves of Coles, Woolworths, IgA, Spar, Foodworks, Drakes Stores and many other local stockists.

The little seeds of Eastcoast began to grow in 1965 when Salvatore Lentini picked and packed fresh fruit from his Central Coast orchards to supply to Australia’s famous Flemington Markets.

Years later, when the Australian government removed tariffs on imported juice concentrate, it became less profitable to produce juice solely from fresh fruit.

That’s when Salvatore’s three sons, Sam, Mick and Frank Lentini – together with their wives – saw an opportunity to capitalise on this gap in the market by squeezing citrus fruit juice made entirely from 100% fresh fruit. And that’s exactly what they did.

Flash forward to 2022 and it’s still very much a family affair, living and working on the Kulnura farm where the first oranges were picked by Salvatore all those years ago.

And what started in a small fruit shed almost 60 years ago has now spanned three generations and grown to be a household name across Australia.

The reason for the success is in the taste - when you drink Eastcoast Juice, you’re as close to the orchard as you can get. Eastcoast Juices are freshness personified.

Three generations of farmers

Plus, you can sip away confidently knowing there are three generations of farmers who stand behind every single glass.

“We’re one of the only family-owned and operated juice companies left in

Australia and we have every intention of keeping it that way,” Samuel J said.

“There’s more to Eastcoast Juice than you might realise. Along with our commitment to creating a great, Aussie made product, we’re also extremely committed to having as light of a footprint as we possibly have on our precious environment.

“Our philosophy is to Return – Re-

grow

Adding to the commitment, Eastcoast’s 100% recyclable bottles are ready to be returned and re-used in their next life, while Eastcoast citrus peel is sent to the farming community to be used as a nutritious, alternative cattle feed, full of protein and energy.

It means, every time you sip an Australian made Eastcoast Juice, you are really making a difference.

“There is absolutely zero waste in the manufacturing of our Australian fruit juices. Our washdown water is treated and sent back out to our orchards to replenish and re-juice the trees.” Samuel J said.

“The citrus pulp that we don’t use in our Pulp Free Orange Juice instead provides a zesty and nutritional punch to yogurt and citrus flavored desserts.

“Eastcoast pulp is sent to companies for blending and regenerating to create a new flavor sensation.

“It’s a case of what goes around, comes around again and again,” he quipped.

Samuel J put the success of the business down to its family values and the hard work of “a great team”.

– Re-Juice so that absolutely nothing of our product is wasted. Our mission is to be 100% recyclable while remaining 100% committed to our environment and the people in it.”

Eastcoast Beverages is a Coast success story built on team work and family values.

LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS A WIN FOR ALL

Gala spectacular at Mingara

THIS year’s The Central Coast Local Business Awards was a glittering spectacular that provided a fitting finale to the annual event.

This year’s winners exchanged exuberant hugs and cheers filled the room as they made their way to the stage on Wednesday 23rd November.

Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said the evening was an exciting culmination to a successful awards program.

“The Local Business Awards recognise the vital role businesspeople play in the lives of their communities,” he said.

“The presentation evening not only sees the announcement of the category winners but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all the finalists.

“We had a sell-out crowd that included our finalists, their families and staff, as well as our sponsors and local dignitaries, who helped to present awards to the winners.”

Central Coast Business Access capture all the excitement as the finalists in each category were announced, complete with images on the big screen, followed by huge cheers as the winners’ names were read out and they took to the stage to claim their trophies.

“The winners’ speeches are always heartfelt and emotional,” Mr Loe said. “This year was no exception.

“It’s very emotional for everyone there to see their tears and smiles as well as hear the beautiful acceptance speeches.”

As official media partner for the Central Coast Local Business Awards, Central Coast Business Access will publish a winners’ feature, that recognises all category winners from the presentation evening.

“Of course, the awards are only possibly with the support of Awards Sponsors, Erina Fair, Village Central Wyong, White Key Marketing, and BxNetworking” Mr Loe said.

“Their involvement proves their commitment to their community and the businesses that thrive there.”

Mr Loe also thanked Mingara Recreation Club for the high quality food and service it provided.

“Thanks to them it was a five-star occasion,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge

kept the evening flowing smoothly.”

the incredible entertainment and our fabulous MC Paul Hancock who

Businesses can register for the 2023 Local Business Awards at www.thebusinessawards.com.au

Scenes form the gala event at Mingara.

Staycation at iconic lighthouse

Norah Head Lighthouse is a magnificent place to play or stay Central Coast’s Most Spectacular Icon Norah Head – NSW Central Coast

NORAH Head Lighthouse is one of the true icons of the region and is a magnificent place to play or stay on the Central Coast.

life, create truly unique and special memories by getting married at the Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve.

Norah Head Lighthouse offers unique ac equipped Lighthouse Keepers Quarters. 4 Star f urnished with each providing three bedrooms and generous living spac This stunning location makes for a perf fenced quarters provide privacy when on y to explore the grounds of the lighthouse at your leisure. The surrounding beaches provide secluded enclaves and hours of family friendly activities.

The Lighthouse offers unique accommodation in two separate fully equipped Lighthouse Keepers Quarters. They are Four Star rated and both are comfortably furnished with each providing three bedrooms and generous living spaces.

This stunning location makes for a perfect romantic getaway, while the fully fenced quarters provide privacy when visitors are on their ‘staycation’.

Guests can take time to explore the grounds of the lighthouse at their leisure and the surrounding beaches provide secluded enclaves and hours of family friendly activities.

perfect wedding location which reflects the joy, beauty and excitement of your wedding day. Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve can be hired for your Wedding ceremony, reception, photography, and accommodation.

Guests can step back in time to feel what it was like to be a Lighthouse Keeper at Norah Head Lighthouse. Climbing the 96 stairs and to enjoy the 360-degree views from the tower balcony is one of the highlights of a visit.

Visitors learn how the light was originally operated, compared to how it works today. You will hear the stories of shipwrecks in days gone by.

Norah Head Lighthouse is also the

For the most important day of your

The lighthouse is at 40 Bush Street Norah Head NSW 2263 | 0452564102 | www.norahheadlighthouse.com.au

Norah Head Lighthouse is the perfect wedding location which reflects the joy, beauty, and excitement of your wedding day. Norah Head Lighthouse Reser ve can be hired for your Wedding ceremony, reception, photography, and accommodation. For the most important day of your life, create truly unique and special memories by getting married at the Norah Head Lighthouse Reser ve.

Adapting has been the key

Step back in time to f as like to be a Lighthouse Keeper at Norah Head Lighthouse. Climb the 96 stairs and enjoy the 360-degree view el at the optics prism and imagine polishing the 700 lenses of the prism. Learn about the duties of a Lighthouse Keeper. Learn how the light was originally operated, compared to how it works today. Hear the stories of shipwrecks in days gone by.

JESSICA CHOL

AS the owner of Central Coast Tile and Stone Warehouse, I have worked tirelessly to build a business based on integrity, pride, honesty and accessibility.

We work with many suppliers, importers and wholesalers to hand select our entire range. Our team works directly with build-

ers, designers, architects and general public to make sure that we are always presenting the latest and best range of products available in the Australian market.

I have built a team of dedicated, trusted and loyal employees, that work harmoniously together – creating a fun and secure work environment.

Throughout the pandemic, I adjusted the business model to ensure the business not only survived but thrived

coming out the other side. Adaptability is one of the most crucial elements in small business, where times are changing ever so fast.

It has been the hardest, most testing time that I have ever experienced in business and I commend the dedication and perseverance of the team that we have.

JESSICA CHOL is owner of Central Coast The Tile and Stone Warehouse. Visit: www.tileandstonewarehouse.com.au

Norah Head Lightho se off

in two separate fully equipped Lighthouse Keepers Quarters.

WINNER

Play or stay at Norah Head Lighthouse.

I Lisa have owned Indulge Hair & Beaut for 2 years now. This beautif l li le salon has been alive as long as I can remember. As a child I had g ew up around Chi away and f nny enough my family and I went to this salon, as it was our local, even f nnier I did my 1st year of my apprenticeship here.

As a hair salon we provide ever ser ice in the hair world, om cu ing to colour work to per ing, hair ex ensions, you name it we do it all.

We also provide teeth whitening & basic beaut here at Indulge. We cater om young to the old and we have wheel chair access.

I believe our level of customer ser ice is nex level. We go above and beyond for each and ever one of our clients & We believe ever one is impor ant and should be t eated with the same level of care. I'm ver lucky and blessed to have the girls here in my salon. They are just wonderf l girls and my buisness would not be where is it today without them, they are just amazing at what they can do. Come see us im sure you won't be disappointed

Yours sincerely Lisa & the Indulge team

Salon is one of the best

LISA Hands has owned the Coast’s award winning Indulge Hair & Beauty for three years now.

“This beautiful little salon has been alive as long as I can remember,” Lisa said after winning the Best Hairdressing Salon category at the recent business awards.

“I believe our level of customer service is next level. We go above and beyond for each and every one of our clients and we truly believe everyone is important and should be treated with the same level of care.

“From taking over the business three years ago as a single mum at 29 with only three staff including myself, I have now doubled my staff and been able to put on 1st year apprentice.

“I really believe our passion, quality of work, knowledge, professionalism, dedication, time management, creativity, customer service and satisfaction and cleanliness are so important and I believe we do this so well.

“I have managed to freshen up the salon replacing the salons 20 year

old mirrors with beautiful big wall mirrors, freshly painted the salon, 10 brand new chairs, replaced the basins that are modern and now comfortable and replaced all front signs and front stickers.

“I have put so much time and effort bringing this salon back to life in only a short three year period, It’s very exciting.

“I see Indulge Hair to be bigger and better than ever and known as one of the Best Hair Salons on the Central Coast.”

Dog Ed daycare a pet’s best friend

DOG Ed Daycare and Training at North Gosford is a dog daycare and training facility for the Central Coast.

They have been in business for two years with the proud owners and staff achieving excellent results in that short time.

“We offer grooming, in-house training while at daycare, private training lessons at our facility, in-home consultations and group dog training classes most weeknights and every weekend,” said a sposkesperson.

“We also offer free daycare to foster and rescue dogs, to assist improving socialisation skills and help find them forever homes.

“Our daycare spaces are open to all breeds of dog – we choose to focus on individual temperaments of dogs, finding them suitable playmates to match age, size and energy levels.”

more responsible canine citizens overall and hopefully make them long term members of the broader DOG Ed daycare family.

All their staff have either already completed industry specific qualifications, are currently enrolled in and completing qualifications, or both, and regularly attend additional seminars for continued professional development and to improve client support and satisfaction.

“With the recent proposed changes to management of dogs in public on the Central Coast, we have been in contact with the Chamber of Commerce to assist in and provide training advice for requested changes to Council’s proposal.”

DOG Ed Daycare is at 26 Tatura Avenue, North Gosford Ph: 0493 049 522

Claire’s an outstanding sole operator

CLAIRE Miles of Oak Street Images & Creative Co was the winner of the Most Outstanding Sole Operator at the 2022 Central Coast Business Awards.

Claire specializes in personal brand photography and design to give business clients “the images you deserve.”

Oakstreet Creative Co is a creative agency that specialises in graphic design and personal branding photography for small business owners.

“Your business is your baby - you’ve poured your heart and soul into it and you need incredible images to engage

and attract new clients,” Claire said.

“But it’s just not that easy. You don’t feel comfortable having your photo taken and the thought of putting yourself out there online gives you nightmares.

“That’s okay, I get it. In fact, I specialise in helping people feel confident enough to not only have the most amazing branding photoshoot but to feel proud to use their images online.

“I’ll walk you through the whole process, from what to wear to how to pose on the day. I promise you’ll love the experience,” Claire said.

“And if you’re in need of a total brand

make-over, Oak Street Creative Co can create your amazing new logo, social media templates, website and more. No more hustling between separate design agencies, I offer a complete visual branding experience so you can launch your business without the stress.

“If you’re ready to create an impressive new brand image that wows your ideal clients, then I’d love to work with you,” Claire said.!

Contact details: www.oakstreetcreativeco.com. Claire Miles: 0412 091 439. hello@oakstreetimages.com.au

Access to trusted health advice

BLOOMS The Chemist Erina first opened its doors in 2000 and during the past 22 years has become an integral part of the Central Coast community.

The store recently won the Central Coast Business of the Year Awards Pharmacy Category which pharmacist manager Luke Owen, attributes to a mix of professionalism, prioritising face-to-face time with patients and passion.

“We start each day with the goal to make sure everyone in our community has reliable access to trusted health advice and the high-quality services that they deserve,” Mr Owen said.

“We feel privileged to have been

given the award by our community and with it, the confidence to keep pursuing our mission to share good health.

“It’s so fantastic to see the team recognised for their hard work and commitment to serving the people of the Central Coast, especially over the past few years, when pharmacy has played such a significant role in the provision of community health.”

The busy store is supported by five pharmacists who among them have more than 30 years of experience, building connections, providing trusted health advice and providing a wide range of services.

Those services include free medication packing, free glucose testing, free

blood pressure testing as well as IVF medications and support, cholesterol and iron screening and the full suite of vaccinations approved by NSW Health.

The Blooms The Chemist Erina team also offer free local medication delivery to support patients who are unable to make it into the store.

The team recall many special moments from their time working at the Erina store, with a recent favourite involving an IVF patient.

“A mother with two beautiful twins recently visited us and shared that she believed the effort and assistance our pharmacist Raz provided on her IVF journey had contributed in a significant way to a successful pregnancy.”

DOG Ed Daycare also helps to rehabilitate unsocial dogs, making them

The winning team at Blooms The Chemist Erina.

Claire Mills.

The winning team at Indulge Hair and Beauty.

The team at DOG Ed Daycare.

STUDENTS JOIN THE WAR ON WASTE

NEXT GEN an inspiration

STUDENTS across NSW are getting in on action to reduce waste and cut down reliance on single-use plastics as part of a new program educating students on sustainability.

Minister for Environment James Griffin said more than 1,000 students across 21 schools are conducting audits on their school bins as part of the NSW Government’s sustainability partnership with the Environmental Zoo and Education Centre (EZEC).

“As NSW adjusts to the single-use plastic bans, schools are the perfect environment to drive important longterm behaviour change around reducing plastics and waste,” Mr Griffin said.

“We’re committed to reducing waste and cutting our reliance on problematic

single-use plastics in NSW and, through this new program, we’re asking young people to help us on this mission.

“This next generation of leaders are inspiring their friends, family and school communities to take simple actions to help reduce waste and keep NSW free from plastic.”

As part of the voluntary program, under the supervision of an expert, students create a data set at the start of the term on the type of waste their school is producing before learning how to reduce waste over two terms.

A final waste audit is conducted at the end of the program for the students to understand the impact of their actions on the volume of waste produced by the school.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said we are teaching students how to better look after the environment and be more sustainable.

“We know that many of our students are passionate about environmental issues and the lessons they learn at school go beyond the school grounds to create positive change for the entire community,” Ms Mitchell said.

As part of the program students are identifying ways their school can reduce waste going to landfill and increase their schools resource recovery - a lesson in the power of the circular economy.

Teacher Grant Oyston said a waste audit is a unique way for students and entire school communities to grow their

awareness around waste.

“We’re encouraging everyone involved to take what they learn outside the school gates and take action in their own lives,” Mr Oyston said.

“We ask students to talk to their parents about what’s in their lunchbox to avoid it ending up in the bin and encourage parents to use alternatives to soft plastics when preparing school lunches.”

The Environment Protection Authority is investing $900,000 to support 17 Sustainability Partners like EZEC to lead projects that help reduce reliance on single-use plastics across NSW.

For more information on these partnerships, visit https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/working-together/ partnerships-with-the-epa

ACROSS

1.

Point on the earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake

First person to circumnavigate the world in a balloon, ... Fossett

New York World Series baseball team

China's ... Zedong

West African republic with Conakry as its capital and chief Atlantic port

Sweet sparkling wine from the Piedmont area of northern Italy

Soviet statesman, ... Gorbachev

Wave-riding

Geothermal springs

BINARY

CROSSWORD #0303

London

monument that stands close to the site of the Tyburn gallows, ... Arch

An ancient Greek one would have competed naked!

Tennis champion, Monica ...

Jazz legend, Duke ... DOWN

Fast and furious sport involving a puck (3,6)

World champion ice dancers, Jayne ... and Christopher Dean

Paris boulevard leading to the Arc de Triomphe, Champs ...

Cricket scores

Dutch word for 'farmers' used to

ACROSS

1. Pirates Of The Caribbean actor, ... Depp (6) 3. Ashton Kutcher replaced Charlie Sheen in the hit comedy, Two ... Men (3,1,4) 8. Brothers & Sisters actress, ... Flockhart (7) 10. Gordon Ramsay cooking competition show, Hell's ... (7) 12. Lana Del Rey's album, ... To Die (4) 13. Soccer star, ... Beckham (5) 14. Pop power ballad by Beyoncé from her I Am... Sasha Fierce album (4) 17. Dallas Buyers Club actor, Jared ... (4) 18. J Edgar and Fair Game actress, Naomi ... (5) 20. Shia LaBeouf action thriller, ... Eye (5) 22. The Chronicles Of Narnia siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund and ... (4) 25. Sitcom starring Jason Lee as a man who believes in karma, My ... Is Earl (4) 26. Remake of a Wes Craven horror, A

Nightmare ... Street (2,3) 29. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' daughter (4) 32. The Matrix actor, Hugo ... (7)

33.

Pop star sisters, Kylie & Dannii ... (7)

Savages actor, John ... (8) 35. The Black Eyed Peas singer and solo artist (6)

1. Grace Of Monaco and The King's Speech actor, Derek ... (6) 2. Russell Crowe's character in A Beautiful Mind, John ... (4) 4. Thirteen actress who plays Rosalie in the Twilight films, ... Reed (5) 5. Movie and computer game, Grand Theft ... (4) 6. Fifth studio album by American singer-songwriter Pink with lead single So What (8) 7. Actress who provides the voice for

Gloria in the Madagascar films, ... Pinkett Smith (4)

9. CSI: Miami actress, Eva ... (2,3)

11. Angelina Jolie plays Mariane Pearl in the biopic, A Mighty ... (5)

15. Adam Sandler voices Dracula in ... Transylvania (5)

16. Whitney Houston song, ... Always Love You (1,4)

19. Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel bringing-up-baby comedy, Life As ... (2,4,2)

21. Clash Of The Titans actress, ... Arterton (5)

23. TV presenter and model, Alexa ... (5)

24. Brazilian supermodel, ... Bündchen (6)

27. Colin Farrell vampire horror comedy, Fright ... (5)

28. Fred Durst's band, ... Bizkit (4)

30. Lindsay Lohan's nickname (4)

31. Fairy tale drama series, ... Upon A Time (4)

DAY TRIPPER’S HIDDEN HAWKESBURY GEM

From New York to Brooklyn

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

BROOKLYN on the Hawkesbury River

is a hidden gem with a fascinating history most travelers bypass as they head north on the M1.

This little port and growing residential area has a lot to offer the day tripper looking for new experiences. It’s major attraction is the famous Riverboat Postman cruise that draws busloads daily.

Heritage buildings, an interesting shopping centre and good picnic spots are all framed by the literally thousands of pleasure boats now moored at Brooklyn.

It is less than an hour from Parramatta, or you can take the train.

The town provides a range of amenities and activities, while maintaining a quiet village atmosphere. Brooklyn provides convenient access for Western Sydney residents and day trippers to the Hawkesbury River and Pittwater waterways for boating, swimming and fishing and to Ku-ring-gai Chase and Muogamarra National Parks for bushwalking and scenic views

And it has close links with another Brooklyn in faraway New York.

In January 1886, the Union Bridge Company from New York was awarded the contract to build a railway bridge across the Hawkesbury River.

The American roots of the bridge are

reflected in the name given to the construction camp, which was named after the 1883 Brooklyn suspension bridge.

The Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge was the final link in the Eastern seaboard rail network and was a major engineering feat at the time of its construction. "Hawkesbury River" was the original platform name when the station opened in 1887 but names varied over the following 20 years with the names "Flat Rock", "Brooklyn" and "Hawkesbury" all being used until the final change in 1906 to Hawkesbury River.

Ferry queues

Peat's Ferry Post Office opened in 1874 and was renamed Brooklyn in 1888.

Brooklyn is positioned at the northern end of the Cowan Bank, a scenic stretch of steep railway track on a 1 in 40 grade. The line drops 200m from the ridgetop near Cowan to almost water level, passing through four tunnels in the process.

Prior to electrification and diesel locomotives, Brooklyn was a staging post for trains heading south to Sydney with "push up" or bank engines being attached to the rear of steam trains here for extra assistance on the 8km climb to Cowan.

Early road traffic was conveyed across the river by George Peat's ferry and prior to the first road bridge being completed there were two vehicular ferries in operation, the "Frances Peat" and the "George Peat".

The new concrete road laid down between Hornsby and Gosford had been completed by 1930 and the increased traffic was beyond the capacity of the ferries. Long queues formed on holiday weekends as vehicles awaited their turn.

Work began on the first road bridge

in 1938 and it opened in 1945. The width and depth of the river between Kangaroo Point and Mooney Mooney presented problems. The total distance to be covered was nearly 800m metres, but an embankment of fill was built out from the northern side, and the actual bridge spans only covered 580 m.

This was supplemented by a second road bridge, a six-lane concrete construction that was completed in 1973 as part of the Sydney to Newcastle freeway.

Riyal visit

In 1901 the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George V and Queen Mary, while in Australia for the inaugural opening of federal parliament, anchored their yacht the "Ophir" in Cowan Creek and boarded the paddle wheel steamboat the "General Gordon" for a tour of the lower Hawkesbury.

A small obelisk unveiled in 1939, adjacent to the railway station and the avenue of tall palms in McKell Park, commemorates the discovery and naming of the Hawkesbury River by Governor Phillip in 1789.

Attractions of Brooklyn.

„ ADAM SIMPSON

„ MATT BROGAN AND HAITHAM RAZAGUI

LDV’s futuristically styled, three-variant Mifa people mover range is now available in Australia from $53,990 plus on-road costs and topping out at $72,990 + ORC for seven-seat versions, while eight-seaters will arrive early next year.

The Mifa’s entry and flagship prices are both higher than those of major competitors including the Kia Carnival ($47,480-$67,580 + ORC), Hyundai Staria ($48,500-$66,500 + ORC) and Volkswagen Caddy Maxi (from $48,140-$54,640 + ORC) – all before on-road costs.

LDV’s ambitious pricing for the Mifa pitches it against TDI340 versions of the VW Caravelle and Multivan ($66,490$75,490 + ORC) as well as the Toyota Granvia ($65,250-$75,950 + ORC).

According to LDV, the Mifa has been designed from the ground up with space, comfort and convenience in mind, while also bringing a comprehensive range of safety features to the segment.

The Mifa range begins with the entry-spec Mode from $53,990 + ORC, followed by the mid-tier Executive from $63,990 + ORC and top-shelf Luxe from $72,990 + ORC.

Alongside the driver, passenger, side and full-length curtain airbags, every Mifa variant is equipped with autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, anti-lock brakes, stability control and emergency brake assist, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, fatigue reminder and attention assist, LED adaptive headlights with auto high beam assist, auto hold, rear collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and a speed assist system.

Executive and Luxe grades get front and rear parking sensors plus a 360-degree camera and adaptive headlights with auto high beam system whereas the entry level Mode has rear sensors, a reversing camera and fixed-beam dusk-sensing LEDs.

The mid-and top-spec variants also get leather-trimmed steering wheels, au-

to-dimming rearview mirrors, 220-volt power outlet, rear privacy glass and dual pane sunroof that are absent from the base grade.

Over the Mode, Executive and Luxe grades have electric sliding side doors and a powered tailgate, heated auto-folding door mirrors, one-touch front window switches, rain-sensing wipers and cabin air purification. All have multizone climate control.

Exclusive to the Luxe are 64-colour ambient lighting, genuine leather uphol-

stery, eight-way driver’s seat adjustment with memory and front-seat heating, cooling and massage functions, while the Mode has manual adjustment and the Executive has eight-way electric adjustment for the driver and four-way electric adjustment for the front passenger. Executive and Luxe also have four-way lumbar support adjustment for both front seats.

In the second row, manually adjustable seats are in the Mode, the Executive has four-way adjustment with four-way lumbar support control and the Luxe has captain’s chairs with heating, cooling, massage and recline functions as well as extendable footrests. All variants have a manually reclining and sliding third-row bench as well as ISOFIX and top tether anchors for three child seats.

Every variant has a 7.0-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment array wutg wired Apple CarPlay connectivity. A six-speaker sound system is fitted to the Mode, the Executive gets eight speakers and the Luxe twelve. Only the latter two get wireless mobile charging Wheel choices extend to 18- or 19-

inch alloys in varying designs according to grade.

The Mifa is offered in a range of five colours: Metal Black, Pearl White, Dynasty Red, Mica Blue and Concrete Grey, the latter with an accented black roof.

LDV backs the Mifa with a seven-year/200,000km warranty and five-year/130,000km roadside assistance program with service intervals are set at 12 months or 10,000km (whichever comes first).

All Mifa variants are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 160kW and 360Nm, equipped as standard with an Aisin-sourced eight-speed automatic driving the front wheels. The WLTP Combined cycle fuel consumption figure for the range is quoted at 9.3 litres per 100km.

“The all-new LDV MIFA is a glimpse into the future,” said LDV general manager Dinesh Cinnappa.

“Who said the practical people mover couldn’t look cool? With its revolutionary design, next-level passenger comfort and convenience, and impressive levels of standard safety equipment, the all-new MIFA has advanced the people mover game significantly.

“The all-new MIFA is set to shake-up its segment thanks to its sleek exterior styling, the latest safety and technology features, and room for up to seven passengers to travel in comfort and style no matter how far the journey.”

menTaL HeaLTH

ACTION THE ONLY WAY THROUGH FEAR

Unnatural has become normal

„ MINDSET | MARCUS WHEAN

FEAR is a primary emotion. It is psychological and physiological. We know all too well when in a state of fear.

Almost everything we do is in some way based in and/or around fear. This is very much normal and is the case because our brains are wired that way – to inhibit us out of safety, to look out for danger, to protect us from threats.

Fear is a necessary emotion for survival. When we were living in amongst the wilderness and wildness of nature it makes sense to have a brain that is wired more for fear and to be on the lookout always for danger.

Our ancient ancestors worked with their fears, had to conquer them and ‘do’ anyway regardless of fears. Why, because if they didn’t, they wouldn’t eat or find shelter.

Fast forward to modern times, our technological advances over the millennia and last hundred or so years have been exponential.

We have more comforts of living but in the name of seeking more comfortable lives we have not actually gotten any fear-less. Our brains have not evolved at the pace of technology.

Nowadays, it could be argued, that because our lives are more safe, we are actually more afraid. Our fears are not now of wild beasts or other tribes attacking.

Now, our fears are “does he/she really like me”?; “what do people think of me”?; “what if I don’t, or do…”?; “that person didn’t like my post, they don’t like me”?; “what if…what if….what if….”?

What is happening now is our brains are ‘fear-sensitive’, there’s more anxiety and stress prevalent. Our technologies and busy lives have created a pervasive stress and anxiety not too shy of being a pandemic. What is unnatural has become normal.

We experience anxiety, fear etc and all the above in our minds as thought and in our bodies as heart racing, sweating, nausea, insomnia, headaches, memory loss, trembling just to name a few.

So often our psychology around fear are thoughts of uncertainties and all the ‘what ifs’. These are often irrational thoughts based in some rationale i.e. even every lie has truth in it.

In my experience rethinking and rationalising the perceived threats can help but fundamentally the truth is often we can’t solve a problem with the same thing that created it.

Dissolve fear with action

People often know their fears and anxieties are irrational. So, changing them is often hard at best and people get even more frustrated or even depressed knowing they are certain the fears with thoughts and can’t change them with rethinking alone.

The way through fears, how to resolve and ideally dissolve them is via

action. Action always neutralises fears because it is the direct confrontation with and observation of and experience that provides ultimately contradictory evidence in real-time terms; moreover, the physiological reaction is neutralised through experience not thought.

The active part we play when confronting fears is based in psychological theory called operant conditioning. That means our direct involvement behaviourally with a stimulus and essentially ‘what we do’ that reinforces a new response.

So too, if we keep avoiding threats and fears we stay anxious and afraid. If we confront and ‘do’ differently re our approach to fears and threats we condition a new response, we could call this courage, bravery, confidence or otherwise it’s a good feeling when we confront

the world, our fears etc in real time the direct experience itself because ‘realised’ when it’s thinking alone it’s merely theoretical.

In short, always take action to dissolve your fears, always! Rethinking can help but only so much.

We must find courage to act and face our fears and experience directly, that we need not be afraid because being afraid helps us with surviving but inhibits us thriving and truly living freely and happily the way we all want and deserve to.

Marcus Whelan is a Registered Psychologist and Mental Fitness Coachwith 10+ years’ experience in private practice. He holds undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in psychology and education. Visit: www.marcuswhelanpsychology. com.au

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever - 3 Stars

Messy, overstuffed and without the same cohesive vision as the original, this sequel coasts by on memories of the first film, and touching tributes to Chadwick Boseman.

„ JACOB RICHARDSON

THE death of King T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) throws the geopolitical sphere into disarray. While Shuri (Leticia Wright) retreats into herself and her technology, Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett) fronts the UN accusing the nations of the world of increasingly brazen attempts at securing Vibranium from Wakanda.

Little does she know that there’s another party concerned about these attempts; the centuries hidden aquatic race of Atlanteans, led by the superpowered Namor (Tenoch Huerta). Shuri’s initial attempts at diplomacy are scuppered after a violent incursion and tragedy. Now, Shuri must find a way to resurrect the Black Panther and protect her people - and she might just lose herself in the process.

Directed once again by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was always going to have to overcome the tragic passing of the man who made Black Panther what it is today, Chadwick Boseman. The film bookends itself with touching tributes to the late actor, and indeed winds T’Challa and Boseman’s presence throughout.

There’s also some great acting on display here. Huerta is spectacular as Namor, and indeed the entire mesoamerican sub-aquatic species is rendered in beautiful interpretation, stunningly realized without a shred of fear to shooting endless underwater scenes. It’s a bold vision for the comic book character, but one that

comes off extremely well.

Then there’s the action. Despite a briefly brilliant fight scene on a bridge with series standout Okoye (Danai Gurira), and occasional flashes of iconic work with Namor, the rest of the CGI-heavy battle sequences feel flat, dull and frankly more than a little disappointing.

The final battle suffers from Waterworld-esque ocean action issues, and relies way too heavily on CGI suits, flying around and poorly choreographed set pieces.

Script-wise too there is a distinctly underwhelming feeling. For a 2-hour 41 minute film, it’s shocking how much here is just completely irrelevant. The original Black Panther had broadly sweeping emotional beats that felt taut, and paid off. Here, those beats are more ethereal, less formed.

It would be trite to blame all of the issues of this movie on the passing of the original lead. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever does great work in building up Namor and his people. But

it loses so much of what gave the first film an identity. And while you could easily make the case that Wakanda Forever is much better than a lot of the superhero fare we’ve had in the last few years, it also doesn’t even come close to holding a candle to the original.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

The Menu - 5 Stars

Delectable satire melds the salivating cinematography of Chef’s Table with the thrill of Midsommar and the satirical comedy stylings of Bodies, Bodies, Bodies.

„ JACOB RICHARDSON

TYLER (Nicholas Hoult) is a food snob, who takes Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) to a super exclusive restaurant on an island. The degustation experience doesn’t appeal to Margot, but it does to the chef-obsessed Tyler, along with the array of wealthy diners along with themfood critic Lillian (Janet McTeer), a fading movie star (John Leguizamo), wealthy older couple Richard (Reed Birney) and Anne (Judith Light) and finance bro trio Bryce (Rob Yang), Soren (Arturo Castro) and Dave (Mark St. Cyr).

They are excited to be entertained culinarily by famed Chef Slowik (Ralph Fiennes), but the Chef has something else in mind for the group. That is, at least, until he discovers that Margot was never meant to be there - a spanner in his otherwise flawless plans for the murderous evening.

Directed by Mark Mylod (of Succession fame), The Menu is a beautifully poised, perfectly positioned piece of sat-

ire for the Chef’s Table generation. It’s an eviscerating, eat-the-rich take on haute cuisine, that also frequently lambasts social media, cuisine and tech bro culture. Frequently laugh out loud funny, but also shocking, surprising, beautifully performed, action-filled and thrilling, this plays as the perfect combination of a disparate array of ingredients that have so often been put together with less efficacy and taste in recent years.

The movie frequently has you howling with laughter - not just from the impossibly good dialogue, but even from the spot on menu descriptions on screen, or the sheer ludicrousness of it all.

On a performance level, we’re looking at a Michelin star treat here. Anya-Taylor Joy is fantastic as the main protagonist, and her dining and acting partner Nicholas Hoult is pitch perfect as the whiny, chef-obsessed social media hound.

Ralph Fiennes, however, steals the show with a truly wonderful performance. His slightest nuanced gesture or facial tick conveys so much, and he seems to be having an absolute blast with this slightly absurdist role.

The film chugs along nicely at a wellpaced 1 hour and 47 minutes. There isn’t an ounce of this movie that you would drop without losing something fun, witty, shocking or essential. There are a few plot threads that perhaps are dropped, or at least don’t make complete sense.

But this is absurdist satire, couched in a gorgeous meal and stunning food cinematography - the odd narrative misstep must be forgiven.

At the end of the day, The Menu is a fully satisfying dish from a satirical messaging perspective, from a comedy perspective, and most importantly from an entertainment perspective.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

Privacy and legal obligations are very important in terms of protecting a business owner’s interests

KATHERINE HAWES

FOR one, it ensures that you place a disclaimer on the limit and coverage of your liability in case something goes wrong.

Second, it allows you to fully dictate what you are as a company and what you do. Finally, it is the first legal defense that you have in terms of lawsuits.

With the recent GDPR developments, a lot of business owners are now asking this one question: What should my website’s terms and conditions say so I can stay protected for a long time?

The answer is not in just one thing. Your terms and conditions should reflect much more than just what is dictated. It should be flexible and ever changing. It should always adapt to the governing law and whatever law has jurisdiction over the business.

For full protection, it must include and say the following items:

ƒ Who is covered by the Terms and Conditions of Use? Your websites

Terms should provide who is covered by it. In Australian law, this would include the users, customers, and the subscribers of the website.

a. It should cover your customers because it offers protection of the business in case of liability and in case problems should arise.

b. It should also cover your visitors, users, and subscribers to protect you from any person who would try to copy the content of your website. Plagiarism is a very serious matter.

ƒ Your terms and conditions should show a governing law. A governing law is the general law that would cover the business and in case there is a problem with the product or service you offer. Generally, the governing

law is the place of registration of the business. It is advisable to only apply other laws, including international law, when the business has already grown to scale.

ƒ You should also provide whatever is required by law. For Australian businesses, the Australian Consumer Law should provides that the following items must be in the terms and conditions:

a. A statement that you comply and follow the Australian Consumer Law;

b. A statement on how the company is going to detail with product defects and when it would need to do a refund, some repair, or when replacement becomes necessary;

c. A statement explaining information about your guarantee; and d. The details of your warranty.

ƒ Other details that are necessary to be placed on your terms and conditions are the following:

ƒ

For those who are selling a product, it is important to provide details of the products, the expected delivery times, the terms of payment, and the kinds of payment that the company would accept.

a. A cancellation policy should also be provided.

b. If the company offers a subscription, the terms and conditions of such subscription should be included here.

ƒ The privacy of your clients is also important as well as other legalities should be in this document, they are the following:

a. Limitation of your liability as a company.

b. Notification that you are using data collection policies compliant with the requirements of your country and compliant with the requirements of international law when it comes to data privacy.

c. A warning on plagiarism and liability for copying.

d. All other Terms that are required of you.

Now that you know the items that should be include in your company’s Terms and Conditions, it is important to always be updated with all of the latest requirements of your government and governing law.

Your Terms and Conditions should be the most flexible part of your website just so you can protect yourself with any kind of liability.

Katherine Hawes is principal at www.digitalagelawyers.com