THE CENTRAL COAST‘S MOST TRUSTED NEWS SOURCE FOR OVER 30 YEARS Print Post Approved – PP100001854 Published monthly (except January) December 2024 1990 EST $75m Health Hub a major investment for Gosford Encore by Mingara the Coast’s newest hotel Libs pick candidates to turn Coast blue Women in Manufacturing visit Protective Fencing Somersby Council CEO cleared to negotiate lease for helicopter operation at Airport Page 4 – Edgar Adams’ Editorial The year that was
PHONE 4365 4566 www.commercialhq.com.au Nicole Barr 0418 230044 e: nicole@commercialhq.com.au FOR LEASE SUITE 9 FOUNTAIN CORPORATE ERINA 94m2 $34,265 + Outgoings + GST This premium commercial space is tailored perfectly for a small surgery or medical clinic, ready to serve your healthcare practice needs with minimal setup. Located in a highly accessible, central area, this clinic is designed to provide a comfortable and professional environment for both patients and staff. Two dedicated staff parking spaces included. FOR LEASE SUITE 18 FOUNTAIN CORPORATE ERINA 118m2 $44,840 + OG + GST Situated within a 2 storey retail and executive office block, suite 18 is ready for your touch, with private and open areas available as well as a shared kitchenette. There are six rooms in total of varying sizes. Fountain Corporate sits alongside Fountain Plaza and Platinum Building - the precinct is home to over 150 businesses and national tenants. FOR LEASE SUITE 1.02 PLATINUM BUILDING ERINA 207m2 $79,000 + OG + GST This suite is ready to be transformed for the medical, consultation or retail industries with its main foyer position in the well-known Platinum building, and there is room enough for a mezzanine level if additional space is required. Situated in a prime location surrounded by popular shops this suite has been running as a café/restaurant/events with fully equipped kitchen. FOR LEASE SUITE 10 PARK PLAZA GOSFORD 441m2 $125,000 + OG + GST Elevate your work environment to new heights with this expansive office space boasting 280 degree views of Gosford cityscape and bushland. Just 5 mins to Gosford Station the suite includes 9 private offices, 2 separate entries, large kitchen/breakout area, 6 dedicated parking spaces and access to high speed broadband. FOR LEASE OFFICE 1 FOUNTAIN PLAZA ERINA 267m2 $112,140 + OUTS + GST Outstanding corner suite with modern fit out in place, ample natural light and views. Currently ANZ business banking, this level 1 suite is positioned in one of the most sought after office positions in Erina. Currently configured with formal secure entry, meeting room, fully equipped boardroom, open office workstations, breakout area, kitchen & private bathrooms. The suite overlooks the busy Central Coast Highway at the Karalta intersection. FOR LEASE SUITE 5-7 FOUNTAIN CORPORATE ERINA 629m2 Contact Agent This expansive commercial office space will be available for lease February 2025. Ideal for corporate offices, co-working space, health industry or expanding businesses, this property offers unmatched visibility & convenience. Lift access, recent major upgrades to air & lighting. Lease part or all of the space.
3 4 Edgar Adams’ Editorial The year that was 5 $75m Health Hub a major investment for Gosford 6 Brisbane Water Oyster Festival huge success 6 Peninsula Chamber members get a picture of the economy 7 Encore by Mingara the Coast’s newest hotel 7 Encore by Mingara manager appointed 8 Women in Manufacturing visit Protective Fencing Somersby 8 Manufacturers visit Parchem 9 Future manufacturing leaders graduate 10 Libs pick candidates to turn Coast blue 10 Coast housing crisis worsens as union pay dispute drags on 11 Gosford Day Hospital opens 11 Sam Dominello takes over as Plateau Chamber President 12 Bouddi Foundation for the Arts Awards over $78,000 to spark the next generation of Central Coast Artists 13 Council CEO cleared to negotiate lease for helicopter operation at Central Coast Airport 13 Council establishes Economic Development Committee 14 Central Coast Council identifies priority infrastructure and investment projects 14 Council continues to drag the chain on Development Approvals 15 When can you tell an employee NOT to come to work? 16 4 expenses that can get out of control in business 17 Property news 17 Investor briefing as 1st stage of Fortis West Gosford development nears completion 19 Funny Business CONTENTS Phone 02 4367 0733 Email info@ccbusinessreview.com.au Web www.ccbusinessreview.com.au CONTACT In this issue Central Coast Business Review is a Registered Trade Mark of Adams Business Publications Pty Ltd P.O. Box 3259, Erina, NSW 2250 Phone: (02) 4367 0733 Fax: (02) 4367 0744 Email: info@ccbusinessreview.com.au Typesetting by Graphic by Design ph (02) 4365 6777 Print & Distribution by Bromley Direct ph 0412 439 773 © Adams Business Publications 1994. All rights reserved. Reproductions in any part prohibited. While every effort has been made to ensure all information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility will be accepted by the publisher, Adams Business Publications. The producer accepts no responsibility for illustrations or photographs supplied by organisations or individuals and/or typographical errors. Central Coast Business Review Readership 20,000+ DISTRIBUTION GUARANTEED VIA AUSTRALIA POST CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
4 It wasn’t all beer and skittles though. What should have been a no-brainer Councillors Neal, Smith and Lamont did all they could to frustrate it. With the Liberals and Team Central Coast working together we can look forward to seeing a changed Council in 2025. It will need to be. Regardless of the push-backs there are still those businesses and investors who see great opportunity. They just need to be allowed to get moving. As we come to the end of 2024 may we wish all our readers, subscribers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous New Year. 2025 will see CCBR enter its 35th year of publishing, and achievement that few other publications can boast in this day and age. Over the years we have taken the lead in promoting our region and supporting businesses that are the bedrock of our economy. Without the support of our subscribers and advertisers we would not survive. So, a very special thanks to all of them. IF YOU HAVE been trying to run your business and keep your head above water over the past twelve months, it won’t have been easy. If your business depends on the Central Coast economy, it is even worse. Firstly, we have a Federal Government that, as predicted, would be anti-business. At the start of the year the Albanese government’s new industrial relations laws came into effect giving unions a legal right to interfere in just about any aspect of the management of your business. The union controlled Fair Work Commission now decides on the interpretation of the Closing Loopholes Bill. 286 pages of mind-numbing legalese plus 86 pages of Explanatory Notes all written by bureaucrats and union leaders in Canberra. It is a massive attack against the right of people to be their own boss. And then the government is pouring billions into the economy to keep a lid on the cost of living that is having the effect of keeping interest rates at an elevated level. Added to this is the government’s total preoccupation with being World leaders when it comes to climate change at any cost. There will be a Federal Election in the New Year and we will need to be thinking very seriously about who we vote for. As a very pro-business publication CCBR will be supporting two excellent Liberal Candidates: Brendan Small in Dobell and Lucy Wicks in Robertson. Both seats are marginal and could determine who will be Prime Minister. Meanwhile, here on the Central Coast businesses have been suffering a double whammy having to contend with doing business with Central Coast Council under Administration for the past seven years. A council that has been totally antibusiness and disinterested in growing the regional economy. With the national economy being in recession business failure rates in the Central Coast construction and hospitality sectors in particular are skyrocketing. Council’s scorched earth policy denying Development Approvals for residential subdivisions, cottages and everything from simple additions to swimming pools has added to what is now a dire situation. The fact that our region has the highest level of homelessness and shortage of affordable housing in the state seems to be of no concern to Council staff who are totally isolated from these issues. We now have an elected council with 8 councillors all of whom can make positive change versus 7 councillors who would oppose. This should see Council’s executive staff including the CEO take notice. Hopefully the number of Development Applications rejected and ending up in the Land and Environment Court will be substantially reduced. It was good news to see Deputy Mayor Doug Eaton OAM get his proposal for an Economic Development Committee approved at Council’s 26th November. EDITORIAL Edgar Adams discusses local issues We’ll handle it from here • Major supplier of architectural hardware to the residential and commercial market • Door locks, handles, security and more • Consultation service available • Working closely with direct clients, builders, architects and interior designers • Visit our showroom today! Avoca Beach Architectural Hardware & Locksmiths www.avocaarchitectural.com.au 4382 1286 0412 437 327 177 Avoca Dr, Avoca Beach info@avocaarchitectural.com.au Edgar Adams Editor The year that was CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
5 BUSINESS NEWS CONSTRUCTION HAS BEGUN on a $75 million primary, secondary, and tertiary health hub adjacent to the Gosford Hospital with a sod-turning ceremony in early November. The Gosford Health Hub will be built and operated by the Cornerstone Group which builds and operates health hubs in NSW Queensland and ACT. The 6,600sqm, five-level health hub will cater for the significant growth in healthcare demand in the Gosford area. When opened, following a two-year build, the Hub will cater for a large GP Practice, pharmacy and pathology, diagnostic imaging, day procedure unit, oncology services, a fertility services provider, allied health and specialist consulting along with other health and medical operators. Gosford Health Hub’s anchor tenant is PRP Diagnostic Imaging who will encompass most of Level 1 once the Hub is built. Cornerstone Group Director, Mr Simon Heazlewood, said the “When opened, the Gosford Health Hub is expected to help more than 150,000 patients, and employ 200 healthcare staff, within the first year of operation alleviating the medical stress on the adjacent Gosford Hospital and surrounding health services” Along with the health services that will be delivered, the two-year build will inject $50m into the local economy and employ more than 200 construction and fit-out workers. Recent research by Colliers on the Healthcare Market Assessment indicates there is currently a significant undersupply in private acute beds to service Gosford’s healthcare needs with healthcare needs in the region growing in obstetrics, gynaecology, orthopaedics, and paediatrics. The Gosford Health Hub will cater for both Primary Health Care and Specialists consulting suites to meet the growing demand for General Practice, Allied Health, Diagnostic Imaging and Specialist Medical services in the Central Coast region. $75m Health Hub a major investment for Gosford Big enough to deliver yet small enough to care, our team of accredited, experienced senior lawyers are true experts in their fields of law. Professional, practical and passionate, we’ve been trusted by the Central Coast for generations. YOUR LEGAL LIFE PARTNERS AUBREYBROWN.COM.AU Architect’s render of Cornerstone Group Gosford Health Hub Mayor of Central Coast Council Lawrie McKinna; Cornerstone Group Director Simon Heazlewood; PRP Diagnostic Imaging CFO Esther Dunford; PRP Diagnostic Imaging CEO Michael O’Sullivan; PRP Diagnostic Imaging Operations Managers Mike Henderson and Elliott Thomas; Cornerstone Group Development Director Luke Goodwin. Front: State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch MP. CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
6 THE 2024 BRISBANE Water Oyster Festival has been hailed a huge success following a record turnout of over 20,000 people at Lions Park Reserve on Sunday in early November. “We were once again amazed at the huge level of community support for this iconic event”, said Peninsula Chamber of Commerce President Matthew Wales. “Even after 24 years, they came in their thousands to experience the fun and entertainment including our famous Sydney Rock oyster,” he said. Over 4,000 dozen oysters were consumed all being supplied by Whittens Organic Oysters, Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed, Davo’s Seafoods and Westray. No Oyster Festival would be complete without the famous “How Many Oysters Can You Eat in 30 Seconds” which drew a big loyal crowd. The record this year was 25 oysters. “This amazing event would not have been possible without our wonderful naming sponsor, Deepwater Plaza and major sponsors Bruce Kerr Pty Limited, MARS Group, Central Coast Council, Six Strings Brewery and Triple M Radio,” said Mr Wales. “Our community is truly fortunate to have some wonderful outdoor venues such as Lions Park that are able to cater for big events like the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival and full credit to Central Coast Council for sprucing up the reserve prior to the event and showcasing our wonderful foreshores and waterways.” “I think everyone was impressed with the venue and the first-class entertainBUSINESS NEWS Brisbane Water Oyster Festival huge success T: 4382 8600 Call us to book your function Acclaimed Chief Economist and Head of Investment Strategy at AMP Investments, Dr Shane Oliver was Guest Speaker at the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce November members’ breakfast meeting. One of Australia’s pre-eminent economists with insights in economic and investment cycles, Dr Oliver discussed the recent US election and interest rate drops in the US then discussed the flow on effects to the Australian domestic economy. He specifically touched on the economic stability that he believes the US election result should bring and the strengthening in the share market in particular. He then discussed the strength of the current Australian economy and touched on inflation levels, potential interest rate decreases following forecasted drops in the cash rate by the Australian Reserve Bank in calendar 2025 etc He ran through employment figures, the housing market Australia wide and gave those present an informative summary of both the global and domestic economy and forecasts. Dr Oliver has a long association with the Peninsula dating back several decades as he had relatives living in the area and used to holiday on the Central Coast during his childhood. He was invited to speak by longstanding Chamber member and local Financial Planning and Mortgage Broking business Country Wide Wealth who are based in Ettalong. “How Many Oysters Can You Eat in 30 Seconds” competition, a highlight of the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival ment provided by Jenifer Green from G’Day Hollywood Productions with Freddy Aguilera & the Ipanema Latin Band and Belinda Adams and the Soul Traders live on stage”, he said. Peninsula Chamber members get a picture of the economy AMP Investments Chief Economist Dr Shane Oliver addresses members of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
7 Areyoua Central Coast based Hospitality Business? We can help you protect your company. CONTACTUS centralcoast@oraclegroup.com.au Fountain Plaza, Erina NSW 2250 02 4322 7856 Oracle Group (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 75 131 025 600 AFSL 363610 BUSINESS NEWS for four years while Central Coast Council delayed approval of their Development Application. Mingara CEO Paul Barnett said that a hotel has been on Mingara’s Masterplan for 30 years. Managed by the specialist team within Mingara Leisure Group, the project has been delivered without incident and on schedule. Commenting on the new addition to Mingara’s facilities Mr Barnett said, “We are proud to make such a needed contribution to the Central Coast community. Mingara is an iconic destination on the Central Coast and Encore by Mingara promises the Central Coast’s most entertaining stay. MINGARA RECREATION CLUB at Tumbi Umbi will open their new 86-room 4-star hotel adjacent to the Club’s facilities in early December adding to the region’s tourist accommodation stock. The $24 million project is the first new hotel to be built on the Central Coast in fifteen years and expectations are that it will be well patronised from the first day. Guests will have access to all of Mingara’s facilities including a wide choice of dining options, entertainment, the Mingara Fitness and Aquatic Centre as well as their Athletics Centre. Construction of the hotel was commenced in August 2023 with the appointment of local builder Red Eye Constructions. However, it has been in the planning stages Encore by Mingara the Coast’s newest hotel Encore by Mingara hotel nearing completion Encore by Mingara manager appointed Mingara has announced the appointment of Candice Pether as Hotel Manager for their new hotel. Ms Pether joined the Mingara Team in May and has been closely involved in the fitting out and bringing on new staff. Ms Pether has extensive experience in hotel management over almost thirty years. In recent years she has worked in roles that have included hotel openings and development. She commenced her career in hotel management in the United Kingdom and moved to Australia in 2003 and held positions with major hotel chains including Sydney Harbour Marriott, InterContinental Group, Mercure and Quest. Most recently she was Operations Manager with Pro-invest Group a fully integrated real estate firm specialising in asset management, development and investment. Encore by Mingara Hotel Manager Candice Pether CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
8 CENTRAL COAST INDUSTRY Connect (CCIC) hosted its third Women in Manufacturing event in early November at Protective Fencing’s Somersby facility. Protective Fencing is Australia’s Leading manufacturer and supplier of perimeter fencing and industrial mesh. This family business was established by Craig Gibbens in 1975 and over the years has become a trusted supplier to the industry expanding its capacity and establishing sales and distribution centres interstate. Mr Gibbens eldest daughter, Samantha Swain, joined the company in 2018 and brought with her years of commercial experience in construction management. She is now the company’s Managing Director, and she led the Women in Manufacturing event that brought together women from across the sector. The event was motivational and inspirational but also provided a chance for women attendees to connect with each other. Mrs Swain spoke about the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture and her focus on lean, efficient operations. Her leadership has positioned Protective Fencing as a model of excellence within the industry, setting a high standard for others to aspire to. With Protective Fencing’s 50th anniversary just around the corner, this Central Coast icon is looking forward to celebrating this impressive milestone. As a region we are fortunate to have such a manufacturer committed to the region. Women in Manufacturing is led by CCIC Director Gail Cottrill with assistance from event coordinator Amy Scurr-Smith Commenting on the success of the event MANUFACTURING NEWS Executive Director Frank Sammut said”The energy and enthusiasm from this event highlights the importance of supporting and empowering women in manufacturing on the Central Coast. We’re excited to continue building on this momentum! “ Planning is already underway for a series of WIM events. Women in Manufacturing visit Protective Fencing Somersby Manufacturers visit Parchem Central Coast Women in Manufacturing group at Protective Fencing facility in Somersby Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC) ran its second last networking session for the 2024 year on the 24th October at the Parchem Construction Supplies site in Wyong. Parchem is part of the Dulux Group and is a leading manufacturer and supplier of products to the Australian and New Zealand concrete and construction markets. It is one of two factory sites that the Dulux Group run on the Central Coast. The second site is the Yates facility in Wyong, which manufacturers a range of garden products including propagating mixtures to fertilisers like Dynamic Lifter. The history of Parchem site in Wyong dates back to 1980 when it was then called Expandite-Rawlplug. From then to 2012 the company grew through acquisition, and in 2012 it was acquired by the Dulux Group. In more recent times the site has had some major expansion projects implemented. Parchem Site Manager, Dominic Cresta took the visiting group through the history of the site and spent time explaining the recent plant upgrades that have taken place to improve productivity. These upgrades included expansion of the silo system that handles the cementitious materials used in their grouts and other products, automation of their mini bulk handling and dosing system and robotics in their palletising system. The group was then taken on a site tour of the facility where the capital improvements were shown as well as other processes that are conducted on the site including the mixing and filling of their silicone products and warehousing facilities. CCIC Executive Director, Frank Sammut, said ”The range of products manufactured surprised our group and again demonstrated the capability of our Central Coast manufacturers. It’s great to see a large company like the Dulux Group continuing to invest in their Central Coast facility” CCIC members October Networking event was held at Parchem’s Wyong facility CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
9 THE REGION’S MANUFACTURING sector marked a significant milestone in late November as eight emerging leaders graduated from the inaugural Central Coast Manufacturing Future Leaders program. This intensive six-month program, provided by Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC) and supported by Investment NSW, brought together a select group of the region’s next generation of leaders in manufacturing and associated industries. “Hosting this program to advance our emerging business leaders is the realisation of a long-term ambition for CCIC,” said Frank Sammut, Executive Director, Central Coast Industry Connect. “The presentations we heard today validate how each participant has matured as a leader. They didn’t just acquire theoretical knowledge – they immediately applied these insights to drive real change within their businesses.” Designed and facilitated by local leadership mentor Mike Goodman and CCIC’s Learning and Development Manager Nathan Scott, the program concluded with graduates from Agrana Fruit, Real Pet Foods, Delta Laboratories, Bioaction, Airpak Sheetmetal, Trendpac, Sherwin-Williams and Elecbrakes showcasing their key learnings and practical applications of their newfound leadership capabilities, including business transformation projects resulting from the program. “It’s typical in our industry for people to be promoted through the ranks with no training or support on how to become an effective leader,” said Mike Goodman. “This program addresses this challenge MANUFACTURING NEWS by giving our next generation exposure to essential knowledge and skills around managing their people and teams, as well as high-order concepts like strategic planning, organisational culture, and innovation management.” A distinguishing feature was an emphasis on peer learning and real-world application. “One of the most valuable takeaways for participants was the realisation their leadership challenges weren’t unique,” explained Mike. “This created a powerful environment for shared learning and problem-solving that has extended beyond the formal sessions.” The graduates have already planned to continue their collaboration through regular meetings in 2025, demonstrating the program’s success in building lasting professional relationships within the region’s manufacturing community. Following this program’s success, CCIC has announced a new cohort will commence in March 2025. “The calibre of innovation projects and visible growth in leadership capability affirm the program’s value to our regional manufacturing sector,” concludes Frank Sammut. “We’re keen to hear from manufacturers and associated businesses who would like to put their people forward for this next round.” This initiative represents a significant investment in the Central Coast’s manufacturing future, addressing the crucial need for developed leadership capabilities. By combining practical leadership development with real business projects, the program is delivering immediate value to participating businesses while building a stronger, more connected manufacturing sector. Companies interested in nominating high-potential leaders for the 2025 program are encouraged to contact CCIC. NEW PATIENTS Comprehensive checkup & clean Includes up to 5 x-rays No Gap (with health insurance) or $290 OFFERS (all patients) Free orthodontic consultation Free dental implant consultation Free cosmetic makeover consultation FINANCE We bulk bill the Medicare CDBS Zip Pay & Zip Money payment plans We partner with SuperCare General Dentistry | Emergency Care | Cosmetic Dentistry Orthodontics & Invisalign | Sleep Dentistry IV Sedation | Oral Surgery Wisdom Teeth Removal | Dental Implants | 3D CT Scanning 02 4323 1933 | www.vcdental.com.au Suite 10, 36-40 Victoria Street, East Gosford NSW 2250 OPEN 7 DAYS 40 YEARS LOCAL Future manufacturing leaders graduate Future manufacturing leaders: (front row) James Tyne - SherwinWilliams Automotive Finishes, Colin Porter - Agrana Fruit, Lawrence Howley - Bioaction, Joshua Turner – Airpak Sheetmetal, Kayla Hancy - Real Pet Food Company, Lucy Whitmore - Delta Laboratories, (back row) Nathan Scott – Training and Development Manager CCIC, Frank Sammut – Executive Director CCIC, Mike Goodman, Director QJump Technology and Lindsay Cohen - Associate Director, Advanced Manufacturing & Agrifood, Industry & Investment Projects, Investment NSW (Not in group photo: Jess Elliott – TrendPac, Toby Shaward – Elecbrakes.) CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
10 Libs pick candidates to turn Coast blue WITH A FEDERAL election on the cards in the first months of 2025 the Liberal Party has named its Candidates for the Seats of Robertson and Dobell. Former Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks will contest the seat which she lost to Labor in the 2022 election that ousted the Morrison Government. She had held the seat since the 2013 election. Robertson, considered a bellweather seat, is presently held by Labor with a 2.2% margin. Ms Wicks was instrumental in getting the University of Newcastle Central Coast Clinical School and Research Institute in Gosford and subsequently secured funding for UON’s new Gosford Campus that will be completed in early 2025 offering degrees in law, business and digital transformation. “Our community is doing it tough, with households up and down the Coast struggling with Labor’s cost of living crisis challenges as their budgets are squeezed to nothing by rising grocery and electricity prices, and higher mortgages and rents. There’s so much more to be done for the people of Robertson, but we need a new government because only a Liberal government can build a strong economy that will ease the current burden on our households and small businesses, and help deliver jobs of the future locally in technology, like AI and cybersecurity, health and education.” Meanwhile Liberal Candidate for the Seat of Dobell, Brandan Small who was endorsed in April has been campaigning around the electorate. The Managing Director of a local manufacturing business, he told CCBR, “I’ve been spending a lot of time out in the community each week, meeting with people and families, and all I’m hearing is how they’re being absolutely crushed by their everyday bills. The cost of living crisis is hitting everyone hard, and so many have told me that they’ve never experienced life to be this difficult. It’s heartbreaking to hear these stories, and it really shows just how much people are struggling right now under this out of touch Labor Government. We can’t ignore the reality they’re facing every day.” “Local businesses are also feeling the impact of rising costs, particularly when it comes to energy expenses, which are making it increasingly difficult to operate,” he said. BUSINESS NEWS Lucy Wicks discusses issues affecting the manufacturers on the Central Coast Brendan Small on the campaign trail A pay dispute between the NSW Electrical Trades Union and electricity suppliers Ausgrid and Essential Energy that has been dragging on since the start of this year is costing business millions of dollars. The ETU is using property developers and businesses as hostages in the dispute through Protected Industrial Action (PIA) since August as enterprise agreements are negotiated. On the Central Coast, and elsewhere in Sydney and Newcastle developers, having completed construction of their developments, most of which are residential, are unable to get Occupancy Certificates without the property being connected to the grid. One developer told CCBR that the cost of booking with Ausgrid for a connection is between $20,000 and $30,000 per booking and then at the last minute the booking is cancelled and a fresh booking has to be made costing another $20,000 or $30,000. Developers spoke to CCBR on the strict condition that their comments could not be sheeted home to them. However they all pointed out that NSW is in the middle of a housing crisis and neither the state or federal governments, both being Labor governments, were prepared to intervene. Developers can’t deliver completed homes to families because projects are essentially left on standby waiting for power—it’s a backlog that will grow with every month the dispute drags on. Many developers who are desperate to get connected to the grid, get Occupancy Certificates and get paid are facing bankruptcy. Commenting on the issue, Amy De Lore, Hunter and Central Coast Regional Director for the Property Council said “The Property Council is aware of a number of major projects on the Central Coast that have been affected by this industrial action, which is pushing back project completion dates in some cases by months. “These delays push up costs, which affects project viability and slows the delivery of housing. “Beyond the direct impact on families and developers, delays add to the financial strain across an already stretched sector. With ongoing holding costs and the inability to meet contractual obligations, we’ll see ripple effects on jobs, future projects, and housing affordability.” Coast housing crisis worsens as union pay dispute drags on CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
11 SPRING MEDICAL GROUP, a hybrid medical practice designed to provide health care services has opened the Gosford Specialist Day Hospital in Park Plaza, 131 Henry Parry Drive. With an area of 426sqm, the hospital’s facilities include: fully equipped operating theatre, 6 recovery bays, consulting rooms. Founded by Dr Gabriel Akra five years ago as a GP practice at Park Plaza, Spring Medical Group also offers an Emergency and Urgent Care service that opened in 2022. The practice employs six general practitioners and two registrars. Dr Akra completed his training as a Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon in the United Kingdom and Nigeria, leading to his consequent induction into the Edinburgh College of Surgeons. He migrated to Australia and Gosford where he continued his training in Emergency Medicine at Gosford Hospital. He said that he was drawn to Gosford Hospital due to its excellent reputation in the United Kingdom. The property is owned by the Brand Group and the lease with a term of 10 years with 7 year option was negotiated by Nicole Barr from Commericalhq. Gosford Day Hospital opens BUSINESS BRIEFS C M Y CM MY CY CMY K 3H 180x100 Mar23 Newest Finalest Final For s 4.pdf 1 21/8/2023 11:18 am Sam Dominello Peats Ridge flower grower Sam Dominello has been elected President of the Central Coast Plateau Chamber of Commerce. He has been Vice President for the past sixteen years and succeeds Lorraine Wilson who was President for the past ten years. The Board of Directors now comprise: President: Sam Dominello Vice President: Mick Lentine Secretary: Margaret Vallance Treasurer: Simon Hardie Directors: Lorraine Wilson Rodger Wilson Rod Wall Bev Ferrier Jonathan Steeds Olga Blanch. The Chamber was founded in 2005 and among its achievements has been the establishment of the Central Coast Plateau Harvest Trail in 2015. It was subsequently taken over by the newly amalgamated Central Coast Council and now known as the Harvest Festival. Dr Gabriel Akra, Founder Spring Medical Group Sam Dominello takes over as Plateau Chamber President CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
12 NEWS IN AN INSPIRING celebration in early November, forty-two young artists from the Central Coast received grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 at the annual Bouddi Foundation for the Arts Showcase Awards Day at Wagstaffe Hall. The Foundation, championing young talent on the coast since 2011, awarded an impressive $78,600 this year, empowering these emerging young artists to pursue their dreams. Chairman, acclaimed actor and director John Bell AO, OBE, FRSN, led the presentation, setting the stage for an afternoon of song, dance, and even jaw-dropping acrobatics as ten grantees showcased their talents. Bell shared his admiration for the artistic talent flourishing on the Central Coast: “Every year, I am astonished at the depth of talent among young people from the Central Coast,” he said. “And 2024 is no exception. Indeed, the level of artistry displayed seems to be improving despite the debilitating effects of the pandemic on the arts across Australia and the world.” Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded 273 grants, totaling over $540,000. This year’s 42 grants cover a dazzling array of artistic pursuits—from classical and contemporary dance to music, singing, and songwriting, acting, theatrical design, filmmaking, writing, visual arts, tap dancing, circus acrobatics and more. Winners were chosen from 92 applicants this year, with 54 finalists auditioning before panels of industry experts. Mentoring, no-cost studio time, and coaching are also selectively provided. This year, 44% of grants support young Central Coast artists facing economic, social, or cultural challenges, and 5% are awarded to indigenous artists. In its 14 years, the Foundation has helped the careers of 19 indigenous artist recipients. This represents 6.4% of all grants which compares favourably with the 4.9% of the Central Coast population that is indigenous. Applications for next year’s grants open in March/April 2025, inviting the next wave of young Central Coast’s aspiring artists to pursue their creative passions with support from the Bouddi Foundation for the Arts. To learn more about the Foundation go to bouddiarts.org.au Bouddi Foundation for the Arts Awards over $78,000 to spark the next generation of Central Coast Artists Awardees at Bouddi Arts Foundation’s 2024 Awards Day. John Bell AO centre CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
13 CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL NEWS AT ITS 26TH November meeting Central Coast Council authorised CEO David Farmer, as a matter of urgency to negotiate an aviation services lease for a helicopter hub over part of the Central Coast Airport at Warnervale with Nighthawks Aviation Pty Ltd, a company specialising in advanced helicopter training, maintenance and support. Nighthawks Aviation has been in talks with Council since they first sought Expressions of Interest in relation to the Airport Masterplan two years ago. The issue has now become crucial and they are considering an alternative base at a major regional airport in Victoria. The facilities at that airport are superior to those available at Warnervale, however, Nighthawks Aviation has stressed that their preference is to be located on the Central Coast on account of a number of factors: - • The Central Coast is a pivotal location in the East Australian aviation market • Nighthawks Aviation’s has existing helicopter operations in the Greater Metropolitan Region of NSW • Access to Uncontrolled Airspace is available from the airport at Warnervale. An assessment of the current state of Central Coast Airport indicates that, even in the absence of an adopted masterplan and in the absence of any further investment by Central Coast Council in airport operations, it would be feasible at this time to accommodate the helicopter services hub. Council says that the economic benefits to the Central Coast of the proposed investment in infrastructure and people involved in the proposal would appear to uniquely beneficial for the region. As well, it would anchor the long-term future of Central Coast Airport. Commenting on Council’s decision Nighthawks Aviation CEO Bruce Kennedy said, “we thank the Central Coast Council for their vision and commitment to the future of Warnervale Airport. Our unique service offerings will deliver much needed economic benefits and employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers alike. We look forward to finalising these arrangements and reiterate our appreciation of the great work done by our newly elected councillors.” Central Coast Airport has the potential to be a major economic driver for the Central Coast. In the end the motion was approved 8 votes to 7. Those voting in favour: Team Central Coast and all Liberal councillors: Those voting against were: All Labor councillors plus Independents Smith and Lamont Council CEO cleared to negotiate lease for helicopter operation at Central Coast Airport Central Coast airport, Warnervale Council establishes Economic Development Committee At its November 26th meeting Council moved to establish an Economic Development Committee consisting of five Councillors plus the Mayor. Notably, except for Councillors Smith and Neal who abstained indicating they were against the motion and Councillor Lamont who left the meeting before the vote, all other councillors voted for the establishment of the Committee proposed by Cr Eaton. It was not without considerable debate, having been left on the table from Council’s October meeting. The Committee will comprise Councillors: • Mayor - Lawrie McKinna, • John McNamara, • John Mouland, • Trent McWaide • Kyle MacGregor • Belinda Neal The role of the committee is to provide advice and recommendations to council on all matters involving the local economy, employment, and regional development. It will be responsible for: (a) Economic development strategies and initiatives, (b) Regional, states and national infrastructure, (c) Business and employment development and support, (d) Promotion of economic activity, (e) Ensuring timely approvals of employment generating activities. CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
14 CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL NEWS 0415 601 591 yvette.zocher@bloomtools.com REVOLUTIONISE YOUR DIGITAL PRESENCE Elevate with AI-Powered Websites – Where Innovation Meets Impeccable Design www.bloomtools.com Its recently launched document – Key Enabling Projects 2025: Central Coast Region – highlights projects that are funding-ready opportunities for improved sustainability, liveability and economic growth. Council is now calling on federal and state governments, industry bodies, specialty groups and private enterprise to partner with it to help deliver on these and other priorities. Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the document clearly laid out what both Council and the community wanted to see delivered to transform the region. “I believe that partnerships with government and collaboration with industry groups and our community around accessibility, housing, employment, recreation and environmental sustainability are essential in managing the Central Coast’s predicted growth,” he said. “Council has already proven it can work successfully in partnership with government and other key stakeholders, having delivered some major developments over the past decade.” “However, with a growing population, we must form ongoing partnerships with state and federal government to secure funding for projects that build our region and make a difference in the community.” The document outlines the make-up of the Central Coast, its population, employment levels, number of dwellings, language spoken in households, numbers of families, where people work, and how they get to work. It also identifies key growth areas – Gosford, Greater Warnervale, the Woy Woy Peninsula and Greater Lake Munmorah – with some key enabling projects in each of those areas. Community priorities are also identified, noting the Central Coast population is expected to grow by nearly 14 per cent over the next 20 years (351,934 in 2023 to a projected 400,878 in 2041). Advocacy for affordable housing is prominent in the document. The cost of many of the Key Enabling projects is also laid out including: $35M for the development of a Food Organics and Garden Organics services and associated infrastructure; $155M for sewage treatment plant major works across the Coast; and $2.5M for the Warnervale Business Precinct. “Council must continue to partner with government and other organisations to address key priorities to support our communities and create positive change,” McKinna said. Council will now present the document to government and industry groups to progress the identified projects and partnerships. To view the document visit www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/business/opportunitiesand-investment/central-coast-region-keyenabling-projects Central Coast Council identifies priority infrastructure and investment projects According to the Department of Planning’s Development Application Assessment Performance Scorecard, Central Coast Council continues to be the most under performing council in NSW with Average DA assessment days 161 – well above the expectation of 115 days and the performance of other councils. Comparisons with four other councils Average lodgement days Central Coast Council 21days Lake Macquarie Council 8 days Liverpool Council 14 days The Hills Council 11 days No. of applications lodged Central Coast Council 434 Lake Macquarie Council 408 Liverpool Council 153 The Hills Council 371 No. of applications meeting expectations Central Coast Council 166 Lake Macquarie Council 360 Liverpool Council 100 The Hills Council 265 % of applications meeting expectation Central Coast Council 38% Lake Macquarie Council 88% Liverpool Council 65% The Hills Council 71% Total development cost Central Coast Council $346.3m Lake Macquarie Council $201.3m Liverpool Council $395.8m The Hills Council $990.7m Council continues to drag the chain on Development Approvals CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
15 BUSINESS TIPS When can you tell an employee NOT to come to work? SOMETIMES GETTING EMPLOYEES to come to work can be the challenge for employers. However, there can also be a number of reasons why employers do not want employees to attend work. These can include business shutdowns (planned or unplanned – think COVID), or needing to stand people down to resolve workplace issues (for example, while a bullying and harassment investigation is underway) or, during a notice period to protect the business’s confidential information or customer base when a key employee is resigning. Also, many businesses need to close during a seasonal holiday period, like Christmas. When this happens, managers need to know what they can legally do, and it’s important to get it right from the outset. So, what are the kinds of situations where employers might lawfully seek to stop workers coming to work, and what does that process look like? 1. Workplace Shutdowns A shutdown occurs when an employer decides to temporarily close down all or part of their business for a specified period (for example the New Year period). During a shutdown an employer can direct employees to take annual leave if permitted by: (a) their award or enterprise agreement; or (b) where the employee is not covered by and award or enterprise agreement – s. 94(5) of the Fair Work Act. Under Section 94(5), an employer can require an award/agreement-free employee to take paid annual leave but “only if the requirement is reasonable.” Reasonable circumstances include where the employee has accrued excessive annual leave (s. 94(5) (a)), or during a Christmas / New Year shutdown period (s. 94(5)(b)). Awards and enterprise agreements generally require adequate notice of the shutdown to be given by the employer (i.e. 28 days). However, neither the Awards (in most circumstances) nor the National Employment Standards (NES) make it clear how to handle situations where employees do not have adequate accrued (paid) annual leave. In these situations, businesses should start the discussion with affected employees as soon as possible to find a workable solution. 2. Workplace Standdowns A standdown is when an employer directs an employee not to work because they cannot be usefully employed for reasons outside the employer’s control such as an equipment breakdown, industrial action (that is not organised or being participated By Warwick Ryan, Partner, Hicksons Lawyers in by the employer), disasters etc. During a standdown the employees remain employed but are directed not to work. The employer is not required to give the employee notice or pay them during that period unless required under the employee’s contract or an enterprise agreement. A standdown does not extend to a mere downturn in trade. Instead, if there is slow down in trade, the employer can negotiate with the employees to reduce their hours or take annual leave. If the employees are not open to that, the business may have to consider redundancies. 3. Suspension of Employment A suspension occurs when an employer requires an employee to not attend work, generally because of the need for a workplace investigation into an issue or incident (for example, misconduct, or bullying and harassment). It can also include a period where the employer believes (with evidence) that the employee may not be able to carry out the inherent requirements of the job because of an illness or injury, and the employee is suspended pending a medical examination. Unlike standdowns, an employee is paid during a suspension period. 4. Gardening Leave Gardening leave is where an employee is directed not to attend a workplace and not to undertake any work at all. Generally they are cut off from systems and directed not to contact customers, other employees or competitors. This would typically happen during the notice period when an employee with close relationships with customers or a detailed understanding of key confidential information, resigns or is given notice of termination. What Should Employers Do? Before making any decisions on what or how to direct employees to stay away from the workplace, employers need to consider, firstly, the employment arrangements (for example, does the Award or Enterprise Agreement apply). Then managers should consider how the business circumstances align with the above categories and develop a plan of action from there. In all cases, clear and consistent communication is paramount, and starting conversations in a timely manner can be helpful. Hicksons Workplace Relations Team has extensive experience across all employee leave processes and is happy to answer any questions you may have. Get results! For further information phone 4367 0733 or email info@ccbusinessreview.com.au ADVERTISE YOUR PROPERTY IN CCBR CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
16 BUSINESS TIPS 4 expenses that can get out of control in business DURING THE TRANSITION from a oneperson operation to what some might describe a ‘proper’ business, most businesses tend to go through a period of growing pains where expenses can blow out, but revenue does not grow at the same rate. There are 3 common positions small businesses find themselves in: 1. Solo owner: This could be a tradesperson or a professional services provider, possibly operating out of their home. They employ no one and have limited costs. Under this model, you should be looking to keep 90% of your gross profit. 2. Typical small business: The owner gets too busy and hires one or two people to help run the business. 3. “Growing” business: You invest in the right people to free up time to focus on just three things — developing high value customers, identifying and selling new products and services, and leadership and strategy implementation to drive the business forward. This means you may need: 1. A general manager 2. A proficient administration team By Troy Marchant, Director, Adviceco Chartered Accountants 3. A sales team 4. Customer service people 5. A full time marketing resource Many business owners in position 2 above should either revert to position 1 or take the bold step to move up to position 3. Getting stuck in position 2 is a major reason why many businesses ultimately fail. Costs creep up, you get too busy servicing existing customers and there is no resource available to drive new revenue. So….here are 4 expenses that can blow your business budget 1. Wages – ‘on the wrong people’ This can be a killer. I know an extremely well regarded and talented cabinet maker who operated as a sole trader for many years. He was always busy, with a bulging order book created from word of mouth. Then, he decided to hire someone to help him who was hopeless. Of course, all of the hidden on-costs of employing people are what catch business owners out. 2. Rent If you are renting space and need to do so, look for opportunities to renegotiate your rent on more favourable terms. Look around your town or suburb — many have empty shop fronts right now, indicating that it is not a strong market for landlords. Irrespective, many landlords will push you hard for increased rent in the hope that you won’t push back. 3. Advertising and marketing When businesses gear up for growth, they tend to invest heavily in advertising and marketing. I have seen this expense creep up significantly over a three- to four-year period without a commensurate increase in revenue to justify the spend. My recommendation is to break down all of your spend in this area into specific campaigns. How much new business does each generate, and what is the return on investment? 4. Travel expenses Hire new people, give them autonomy and freedom to make decisions, send them off to develop new markets — and watch this expense go through the roof! It is important to set some parameters. 5. Accounting fees Final thoughts…expenses have a habit of creeping up on you. It is good discipline to review them line-by-line once a year and make a determination as to whether you are getting the absolute best return on investment for each expense. A cost audit is a great place to start. You might be surprised at the level of needless expenses and the savings you could make by renegotiating some costs — or, indeed, the increased revenue you might see as a result of increasing some expenses that show a great return. A proactive accountant can help you with this review as well as providing advice on your cost structure in general. PS – thank you to Rob and Karen last month with some questions on business restructuring for asset protection. Email your questions to troy.m@adviceco.com.au CENTRAL COAST BUSINESS REVIEW DECEMBER 2024
ccbusinessreview.com.auRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1