Central Coast top 100 Most Influential people as voted by you
THE votes have been tallied, the results are in and the Central Coast has decided. From today the Express Advocate can begin to reveal the region’s top 100 Most Influential people as voted by you. Prepare to be shocked and amazed.
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THE votes have been tallied, the results are in and the Central Coast has decided.
From today the Express Advocate is revealing positions 21-100 of the Most Influential people as voted by you.
The response to our poll — the first to identify the Coast’s true movers and shakers — has been nothing short of phenomenal, with a total of 167 individuals nominated during the two-week online voting period earlier this month.
Those who broke into the top 100 made their name in fields as diverse as politics, business, sport, medicine, arts, registered clubs and manufacturing.
And what is particularly telling about the top 100 is the quality and calibre of many of those who did not make the final cut.
We asked readers to nominate someone who either had a significant impact in the past year or was likely to do so in the next 12 months — and someone who has done something specific to influence our community beyond just holding a powerful job.
No list of this kind can ever be truly definitive or achieve an absolute consensus.
But what this list does succeed in doing is serving as a starting point for a conversation about the kind of people who do and can play a major role in shaping the future of the Central Coast.
And Express Advocate online readers did not disappoint, with some of the region’s unsung heroes — those who let their actions speak louder than their words and those who command influence from behind the spotlight — ranking highly among the more familiar household names.
Next week we begin the top 20 countdown, with exclusive online profile articles, photos and videos.
Thank you for your votes, congratulations to everyone who made the list — and prepare to be shocked and amazed as we count down to the Coast’s inaugural number one most influential person.
POSITION 21-100
#21 — Suzy Miller: Business. She Story founder
Reader nomination: “Her tireless work in the community both with the women, underprivileged, and the youth. She is always giving her time to community projects without ever asking for help or recognition. A true pioneer!”
#22 — Chris Holstein: Councillor, former State MP
Reader nomination: “Chris is a man that never gives up on the Central Coast. He’s always goes to many events on the coast on the weekends and seems to always put the community first. Anytime there are problems he is there trying to help the community and the people.”
#23 — David Harris: Wyong State Labor MP
Reader nomination: “As a Nurse at Wyong Hospital I know how hard David worked to save our historic community hospital from privatisation less than a year ago. The campaign he led changed the course of our history and scuttled a terrible state wide policy the government was using us as guinea pigs for. As shadow minister for the Central Coast (an area now dominated by opposition MPs) David is an essential addition to this list.”
#24 — Kyla Daniels: Retail. Cakes by Kyla owner, social media influencer
Reader nomination: “I’ve watched Kyla build a cult following over the past few years and with almost 40,000 Facebook followers and having made thousands of cakes, she has certainly put Gosford and the Central Coast on the map. As a local, its been amazing watching the hard working mum hone her craft.”
#25 — Frank Sammut: Manufacturing. Central Coast Industry Connect founder
Reader nomination: “He has worked relentlessly for many years now to grow the local manufacturing industry involving networks cutting across many sectors. He is a focused quiet achiever worthy of a plug and public recognition for what he is doing for the Coast.”
#26 — Ian Robilliard: Sport. Former NBL star, Central Coast Academy of Sport MD
Reader nomination: “His untiring efforts in having our talented, young, elite athletes receive first class sports education and coaching that they would not have done without the Academy Of Sport.”
#27 — Margaret Hardy: Arts. Former Central Coast Arts Society president
Reader nomination: “She is a powerhouse for Arts on the Central Coast, involved with making the Gosford Regional Art Gallery happen, Laycock Theatre, etc. She’s an advocate for the Arts, the disabled, the environment.”
#28 — Nina Angelo: Marriage celebrant. Arts. Human rights
Reader nomination: “Nina is an amazing voice for culture , arts ,and human rights covering people from all walks of life here on the Central Coast.”
#29 — Yvonne Crestani: Medical. Scholarships in Radiology founder
Reader nomination: “Yvonne Crestani is the founder of Scholarships In Radiotherapy, which has been involved with the Cancer Unit at Gosford Hospital since 2013. The result of this has brought state of the art techniques in treatment to Central Coast Cancer Patients not usually available in Regional Hospitals. She heads a group of volunteers dedicated to raising funds to provide higher education for young Radiotherapists at home and in some cases, the opportunity to travel overseas to learn new techniques, thereby providing better outcomes for cancer patients on the Central Coast. Yvonne’s energy and sacrifice is beyond belief, her commitment and dedication is for the latest treatments to be available to help cancer patients here on the Coast. This foundation is here, yesterday, today and tomorrow.”
#30 — Stuart Harvey: Surf Life Saving Central Coast president
Reader nomination: “Stuart has been at the forefront of surf life saving on the Coast for years and is a vocal advocate for positive and innovative new measures to keep people safe on our beaches.”
#31 — Jane Smith: Central Coast Council Mayor
Reader nomination: “As first Mayor of the newly amalgamated council, Jane faces the challenge of unifying former North and South residents. .. as well as unifying and leading 15 Councillors representing their local wards. It’s a huge task that will have long-term influence on local government into the future.”
#32 — Matt Kelly: Health. Gosford Private Hospital CEO
Reader nomination: “Matt Kelly oversees the operation of Gosford Private and Brisbane Waters Private Hospitals and is responsible for the construction of the new Tuggerah Lakes Private Hospital in Kanwal, three of the largest private employers on the Central Coast. With a commitment to positive patient experiences and outcomes, along with a drive for collaboration between the public and private healthcare sectors, Matt has positively impacted the range of healthcare services now available on the Central Coast, allowing patients to stay close to home and family while attracting some of Sydney and Newcastle’s best surgeons to the Coast. Ensuring locals have access to jobs and can access world class healthcare right here on the Coast.”
#33 — Peter Robson: Civil Engineering. Robson Civil CEO
Reader nomination: “If there is a man whose company has shaped the foundation of the Central Coast, it’s Peter Robson. His company founded by his father Ron Robson formed over 56 years ago. Robsons has been involved in huge developments all over the Coast and east coast of Australia. His company employs hundreds of people and if you ask the employees that work for him what they are like to work for... you would be hard pressed to find someone who dislikes Robsons. From the F3 (M1) freeway to Erina fair, Westfield Tuggerah, to half the house blocks the Central Coast now reside on, Robsons has shaped the Coast. Peter is a pretty reserved person. But I suppose that’s why he doesn’t stand out. He is definitely the underdog!”
#34 — Shaun Mielekamp: Sport. Mariners CEO
Reader nomination: “The CEO of the central coast mariners has had I believe a huge impact of the Central Coast. He drove development at the stadium, he demands the best facilities for 16,000 local players and represents our region in state and federal politics. I think he is a real leader for the future of the Central Coast.”
#35 — Phil Walker: Clubs. Mingara Chairman. Regional Development
Reader nomination: “He is passionate about the coast and demonstrates this through more than just his ‘job’ in real estate, but also his role as Chair for Mingara and Chair for the RDA.”
#36 — Taylor Martin: NSW Liberal Upper House MP
Reader nomination: “As the youngest state politician and a local Taylor works hard for the Coast.”
#37 — Maddison O’Gradey-Lee: Youth. Charity. Mental Health advocate
Reader nomination: “At just 20 she has done some amazing work in the community. An active surf life saver and age manager for 10 years, a max potential coach, running her own organisation to imporve the lives of young people facing mental health concerns, fighting to get the more opportunites for youth on the Coast, for serving on the Wyong action team running one of the largest days for the coast’s young leaders, for speaking at the UN in New York three times now, for being the first Australian to receive the dalai lama peace fellowship and the youngest fellow in history, for being identified as an emerging leader by Layne Beachley. She has accomplished so much in her young life and will only continue to do more.”
#38 — Craig Leckie: Engineering. Transport. Roads and Maritime Service bureaucrat
Reader nomination: “This public servant engineer / planner with RMS has been behind every major freeway, highway and state road upgrade on the coast for the last 2 decades. No one would have had the influence shaping the Coast than him. He is highly respected for his honesty, integrity and influence to reaching the best possible outcome for the Coast.
#39 — Paul Barnett: Clubs. Mingara CEO
Reader nomination: “During his CEO reign, he has successfully created a humanistic culture within the organisation that makes employees want to work and stay. Has also successfully grown Mingara into a successful business/recreation club as well as amalgamating 5 more successful business’s/clubs. As a CEO, he is very humanistic in his approach to employees.”
#40 — Matthew Mosse-Robinson: Entrepreneur. Foresight Online Group
Reader nomination: “Entrepreneur and employer of 20 young people from the Coast. Has grown a business from a bedroom to now operating out of an 1800sq m factory in West Gosford. He also has one of the coasts most popular Christmas light displays on St. Huberts Island each year as featured on Sea FM.”
#41 — Gary Blaschke: Disabled surfing pioneer. Volunteer
Reader nomination: “Gary is a voice for the disabled and not only lobbies for them he is active volunteering his time with their activities. Gary is also vocal with the PFAS contamination on the North of the Central Coast. He is very well know in the Northern end of the Central Coast. He has taken thousands of profoundly disabled surfers for a happy and safe surfing experience for over 32 years and is now lobbying for their safety with the seismic testing. Gary is an amazingly influential Coastie.”
#42 — Rip Taylor: Sport. Rugby League. Wyong Roos Coach
Reader nomination: “He’s a fantastic mentor to young Coasties and footy players.”
#43 — Dave Abrahams: Technology. Social commentator. NBN
Reader nomination: “Involvement in the establishment of NBN on the Central Coast. Dedicated to the wise development of the Gosford Waterfront and more recently an advocate for the Performing Arts Precinct and the Friends of the Performing Arts Committee. He is is involved heavily in behind the scenes negotiations with Council and all stakeholders. He is a man who can make things happen whilst following correct process and protocol.”
#44 — Kasey Chambers: Music. Country singer
Reader nomination: “Kasey is and has been an enduring respected and highly acclaimed figure in Australian music for over 20 years. One of the Central Coast’s most recognisable and visible personalities whose service to the arts and the coast itself is undeniable. She is a proud Coastie serving as the regions ambassador in past years and her reach is as far and wide as anyone stretching across the countries popular culture, through the music industry and media streams with an incredible talent, a warm approachable character and a nature honest and true and a positive representation of people in our area. She is one of Australia’s most influential people and without doubt an asset to the Central Coast with all that she has achieved in her career and all that she attends to for our region. An absolute must have addition to this list and arguably one of the Coast’s greatest ever representatives. She is also an incredibly good mother as well.”
#45 — Emma McBride: Dobell Federal Labor MP
Reader nomination: “I feel she is one of the most genuine and compassionate Federal Members the Central Coast has ever seen.”
#46 — Janet Wallace: Dentistry. Academic. Dental nurse advocate
Reader nomination: “Janet has been a local dental contributor for over thirty years. Initially a dental nurse, then a Public Health Service dental therapist, Janet obtained a bachelor of oral health at ourimbah ten years ago. She has since obtained her doctorate, become head of discipline and, most importantly, has introduced an internationally acclaimed dental program in nursing homes. Senior Smiles continues to grow, supporting our elderly coast residents in maintaining their oral health. She is an empathic and inspirational leader. A quiet achiever, Janet simply deserves recognition.”
#47 — Danielle Habib: Domestic violence advocate. White Ribbon chairwoman
Reader nomination: “Danielle is our local social awareness advocate. Danielle is Chairperson of our local White Ribbon Committee, which organises many community events across the whole Coast. Danielle delivers Gender Equity courses in our High Schools, across the Coast. These courses assist young people to work together to eliminate violence and power issues in ther relationships. Danielle support our newly arrived Refuges and advocates for the rights of all Refuges seeking shelter and support in Australia. Dani is a kind, caring, strong, determined local woman. I acknowledge and admire her respectful approach to all people.”
#48 — Dr Michael Pollack: Medical. Australasian Stroke Coalition founder
Reader nomination: “Because of his influence in the Healthecare care sector especially in the field of rehabilitation including neuro rehabilitation. Working on very innovative and effective new treatments with stroke victims, Parkinson’s Disease sufferers etc. Dr Pollack is head of Hunter New England Area Health Services Rehabilitation Dept and has recently sought out private Rehabiliation provider such as Brisbane Waters Private Hospital to work, specifically, on the Central Coast. Dr Pollack has some innovative ideas and over the next couple of years the work and specialists that will be working in Gosford in this field will be attributed to Michael’s influence in this field.”
#49 — David Mehan: The Entrance State Labor MP
Reader nomination: “David has been a long time advocate for the central coast before being elected the Member for The Entrance in 2015. He was instrumental in having the Central Coast recognized as a region by the Geographic Names Board in 2003. In 2006 he helped establish the memorial wall at Ourimbah for workers who had died on the job or through workplace related injuries or illnesses. David has long been an advocator for housing access and served on the board of Central Coast’s Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service.”
#50 — Dr Brendan Gunalingham: Medical. Heart surgeon.
Reader nomination: “Of his influence in the health sector on the Coast especially in the field of interventional cardiology. Dr Gunalingham has pioneered a procedure on the Central Coast that can assist in preventing strokes, with the introduction of the Watchmans Implant. The ‘Watchman’ is a permanent heart implant that helps stop clots that form in the heart travelling to the brain in patients with Atrial Fibrillation. Dr Gunalingham performs this procedure at Gosford Private Hospital. Given there are currently only 13 Hospitals performing this procedure across the entire Nation, this is evidence of Dr Gunalingham influence in Gosford. Dr Gunalingham is in influence is less patients travelling off the Coast for this procedure and a most influential Heart Specialist that provides training for other cardiologists in Australia and internationally.”
#51 — Lee Shearer: Central Coast Coordinator General
Reader nomination: “Lee is a force of nature who is instrumental in finally driving meaningful and considered development in the Central Coast in general and Gosford City Centre in particular. As Coordinator General for the Central Coast Lee is instrumental in coordinating all agencies and stakeholders to evolve the region to live up to its enormous potential as a livreable economic powerhouse to match its stunning beauty. It takes a special person to walk the tightrope between all the vested interests while still driving delivery of the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036. Lee is the perfect person for this delicate yet forthright role that will change the course of the Central Coast’s history.”
#52 — Matthew Wales: Business. Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president
Reader nomination: “Matthew has consistently been a strong advocate for the Peninsula both in business and the community. He has never been afraid to take on tough issues such as the dredging of the Ettalong channel and better planning controls for Gosford city and our town centres. He has been the President of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce for 20 years ensuring the success of the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival and Business Awards. He has lobbied governments for road funding and a constant advocate for our local area.”
#53 — Scott Levi: Media. Radio. ABC Central Coast host
Reader nomination: “He asks questions about a lot of local issues. He also enables locals to have a voice. He interviews the mayor asking her the hard questions. He lets everyone know about great things going on in the community. He seems both passionate and concerned about the Coast.”
#54 — Claire Braund: Business. Women on Boards founder
Reader nomination: “Founder of “Women on Boards”. Giving women a higher profile here on the coast and also internationally. Supports women to pursue leadership positions suitable to their skill levels.”
#55 — Warren Hughes: Business. ACS Integrated Services CEO
Reader nomination: “Warren has been a strong business leader in the business community and given a lot to the Central Coast community over the years. A born and breed Coastie he has mentored and continues to want to move and see the best outcome for the Central Coast region.”
#56 — Phil Brand: Property developer
Reader nomination: “I think Phil has done so much for the area to get the Central Coast on the map. Especially the Erina area which is the focal point of the Coast.”
#57 — Crystal Russom: Central Coast Council’s Youth of the Year
Reader nomination: “She does so much community work for the Coast, raising money for charities, volunteering in community radio and speaking out about mental health in her award-winning artworks. She also won Central Coast Council’s Youth Of The Year 2018”
#58 — Monique Cardon: Fairhaven Disability Services CEO
Reader nomination: “Monique is the CEO of Fairhaven Disability Services and is outstanding with women in our community. She is caring in her interactions with her clients and treats them with dignity and respect. She mentors other women and is an inspirational woman in our region.”
#59 — Patrick Brennan: Music. Arts. Central Coast Conservatorium
Reader nomination: “As the Artisitic Director of the Central Coast Conservatorium he is driving the plans for a new concert hall and performing arts precinct and the blossoming of music performance on the Central Coast.”
#60 — Katie Stokes: Online publisher. Playing in Puddles
Reader nomination: “Katie’s website and social media groups ‘Playing in Puddles’ has changed what it means to be a parent and child growing up here. It has been a great new asset to the Central Coast. Playing in Puddles has had a huge influence on getting parents and their kids out and about exploring the central coast and discovering new things. The website shows where all the parks, play centres, kids activities, classes, events and festivals are on the coast as well as advertising local child friendly businesses (cafes, daycare, gyms etc). There was nothing like this before and being a parent here was quite isolating. It makes it easy to know what is going on, and has made a huge impact on local mothers groups, parents, grandparents and especially new families moving to the coast. She has thousands of followers and I believe has been the best thing to happen to the Central Coast recently.”
#61 — Chris Benson: Craft beer. Six String Brewery co-founder
Reader nomination: “Making huge impacts for the Central Coast with their craft beers and distribution. A true local success story and support events and tourism with their sponsorships.”
#62 — Lindsay Stanford: Indigenous advocate. Blakwork Employment founder
Reader nomination: “Lindsay Stanford is a proud Gamilaraay woman and founder and Principal Consultant of Blakworks Employment Solutions. Blakworks helps Australian employers make Indigenous employment work by improving their understanding of Aboriginal employment, and building better workplaces to support Indigenous employment efforts. Lindsay is a Central Coast local and has been helping employers and employment service providers with Aboriginal employment for more than 20 years. She works with small, medium and large employers, including corporates, employment service providers, and boutique Indigenous employment consultancies across NSW and the ACT. Lindsay is passionate about Aboriginal employment and believes that it is about much more than creating and filling jobs. It involves changing attitudes and creating work environments where Indigenous people feel welcomed, supported and respected. As part of the work that she does Lindsay runs Aboriginal Cultural Awareness training and is a key note speaker to diverse audiences.”
#63 — Richard Mehrtens: Councillor
Reader nomination: “After years of pulling the strings in state and federal Labor offices across the Coast, he’s now on local council delivering for local families.”
#64 — Rae Anderson: Paralympian. Cerebral palsy advocate
Reader nomination: “Rae Anderson is a 21-year-old para athlete who has represented her country in Athletics. Rae has competed in the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, 2 world championships and the Rio Paralympics. Rae’s first world championships in Doha at the age of 18 saw her place 6th in the world in Javelin after having sat her HSC exam at the British Embassy earlier that same day. Rae is currently ranked top 5 in the world for Discus and Javelin and is also currently training in winter sports after being identified by Australian Ski coaches. Rae is a student at Sydney University and still maintains a grueling training regime in preparation for the Tokyo 2020. Rae also gives of her time to many and varied causes. Firstly she has always supported her Athletics Club Mingara by officiating at Events and assisting the club wherever needed. Rae also coaches and mentors upcoming athletes within her club and through CPSARA, the Cerebral Palsy Sport and Recreation Association a not-for-profit organisation of which she helps run. Rae is a research associate with CPSARA where she collects information about Para Sport opportunities and then lectures at schools, Hospitals and Physiotherapy conventions regarding opportunities for children and available avenues into elite sports. This program offers mentorship and advice to athletes and their families who wish to pursue a sporting career by partnering with elite athletes. Rae is also the operations director with the Unibridge Project which is a not-for-profit organisation creating a network that supports Australian and Indonesian students participate in a language and cultural exchange online.”
#65 — Dr Marc Coughlan: Medical. Neurosurgeon
Reader nomination: “His influence on the Health industry. Born in Cape Town in South Africa, Marc moved to Australia in 2004 to do a fellowship with Dr Charlie Teo. Having completed the fellowship Marc moved to the Central Coast and established a Cente of Excellance in Neurosurgery and Complex Spine Surgery in Gosford. Marc is held in high esteem in his field and is a major influence in the Health sector on the Coast. Marc is pivotal for providing Neuro Surgery services including pioneering a customised 3D printed spinal implants and new techniques in anterior spinal surgery which now allows more residents to have surgery locally rather than to travel to Sydney. He helps attract other Neuro Surgeons to bring their services to Gosford and work with him. Marc is a pioneer in Neuro Surgery for Gosford and is continuing his services and innovations into the future.”
#66 — Andrew Heard: Religion. EV Church founder
Reader nomination: “He has impacted thousands of lives on the central coast through establishing and leading EV Church. Helping people of all walks of life find support and grace.”
#67 — Cathy Gilmore: Wildlife. Australia Seabird Rescue
Reader nomination: “Cathy has been rescuing the wildlife on the Coast for 26 years in a voluntary capacity and still doing it! She launched Australian Seabird Rescue Central in 2005 and does school talks, beach clean ups and trains members of the public to rescue from Port Stephens to South of Sydney! She has rescued 1,000’s of animals over this time and educated 1,000’s more.”
#68 — Andrew Cooney: Media. Millennial. Filmmaker, photographer
Reader nomination: “Andrew’s photographic and film expertise really helps to promote the Central Coast not only locally but around the world. His many followers on social media (over 10,000) are always amazed at how beautiful the Central Coast really is. He really knows how to capture not only the coastline but other hidden gems.”
#69 — Kim Walker: Indigenous Arts. NAISDA CEO
Reader nomination: “This year marks Kim’s tenth anniversary as CEO of NAISDA Dance College, Australia’s leading performing arts training organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, which has its national home at Mount Penang Parkland, Kariong. Over this time, Kim has made a huge impact in the lives of many First Nation students who have come to study at NAISDA from across Australia and gone on to pursue successful careers in the arts. Kim continues to make significant contributions to Australia’s cultural, creative and education industries and has seen NAISDA’s growth and success soar over the last ten years. Above all, Kim is a committed advocate in his work to share and celebrate our world’s oldest living cultures through dance and to support and nurture our future First Nation artists, leaders and creative innovators. He is a significant voice in the Central Coast’s creative and cultural landscape and is passionate about sharing First Nation culture and performance with Central Coast audiences, schools, community and stakeholders. He is leading his team towards an exciting vision for the future of NAISDA and the longterm development of an International Centre for Indigenous Creative Learning at Kariong. The Centre will have a substantial social and economic impact on the Central Coast and importantly will be a space of increased cultural participation, connection, understanding and celebration for the people of the Central Coast.”
#70 — Gary Van Dyke: Social worker. Central Coast Health harm minimisation unit
Reader nomination: “I nominate Garry for being there every day to provide a “hello”, a “stay safe” and just the I care smile to the most vulnerable members of the community. Garry removes the judgement attached with metal health and substance abuse issues allow those who need help to feel free to seek it. Garry will always put his hand in his own wallet to try and help those genuinely in need. Garry uses his wealth of experience and knowledge to help channel people to the appropriate support.”
#71 — Dan Gawned: Media. Broadcasting. Sea FM morning host
Reader nomination: “Gawndie makes everyday better with his wit and great humour, always bringing a smile and a laugh to start the day. His appreciation for life and the happiness he shares makes for great company and a sense of well being throughout the community.”
#72 — Chris King: Entertainment and the arts
Reader nomination: “Enthusiastic, hands-on promotion of CC Arts & Culture - like his consistent involvement in the 5 Lands Walk. The Art Gallery has improved under his management- as has Laycock St Theatre (industry recognised as such). Has trained many significant entertainers in Theatre skills (like Brett Climo & Natalie Imbruglia). Years directing and contributing to GMS and supporting new talent. On Regional Development Board to promote Central Coast and Mingara Board to provide quality services to CC residents. Tireless fundraising in community for charity causes such as Cancer Council, Give Me Five for Kids, Crestani Radiotherapy Scholarships (to name a few) AND donates entertainment and MC skills to Christmas concerts on Coast and in NSW. In his past life as a wedding MC, has also witnessed the wedding of many a Coastie! A really genuine, honest, hard-working and modest man. A great cultural influence both in his past life on TV (in The Young Doctors, Ben Hall, Super Flying Fun Show, Here’s Humphrey, etc.) and in the present.”
#73 — Peter Duggan: Politics. Young Labor assistant secretary
Reader nomination: “Because of his campaigning for a progressive central coast community.”
#74 — Joshua Maxwell: Same sex marriage advocate
Reader nomination: “Because he has spent the the past 10 years working to improve the opportunities for emerging artists in the region, including launching the Central Coast’s only youth arts company; Jopuka Productions. He’s also been a passionate advocate for equal rights for over 13 years most recently in his work on the YES campaign during the 2017 Marriage Law Survey, which saw him the centre of national media attention and invited to Canberra by Emma McBride to be in the chamber as she told his families story.”
#75 — Fletcher Pilon: Music. Singer
Reader nomination: “Fletcher continues to influence not just people on the Central Coast but people from around the world with his music, thoughtful lyrics, caring nature and beautiful spirit.”
#76 — Rod Dever: Business. Erina Chamber president
Reader nomination: “Because of his influence in the business community in Gosford. Rod holds many influential positions in Gosford such as the National Employer Account Manager at The ORS Group, a Disabilty Employment Network where he is very passionate about placing people with a disability into employment and more so training staff to effectively transition and work with people with a disability. Rod is current President of Gosford/Erina & Coastal Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. He is the immediate Past President of the New Soth Wales Business Chamber (NSWBC) Central Coast. He also holds a position on the Regional Advisory Council. He is a State Councillor on NSW Business Chamber State Council, he is a Committee Member on Gosford Business Improvement District (GBID), and also a Committee Member on GOSFORD City Council CBD and Waterfront Advisory Committee. Rod is very influential in the local Business space and has the ‘ear’ of Government representatives at local, State and Federal levels. In the coming 12 months and beyond Rod’s Discreet influence will only strengthen.”
#77 — Sarah Wills: Fitness. Wtribe Wellness founder
Reader nomination: “She is changing the way women see themselves. Sarah has created a movement of women supporting women and shown us how to build each other up! Sarah influences women through her Womens wellness centre “Wtribe womens wellness centre” as well as online with her online courses and her social media outlets.”
#78 — Matt Lusted: Business. Development. Wyong builder
Reader nomination: “The passionate Wyong local has played a big part in the direction of planning and attraction of sustainable development. His involvement in community events like the love lane festival and his personal contribution to boosting the image of Wyong is on par with the town pioneers.”
#79 — Douglas McFarland: Scottish community. Highland dancing. Business
Reader nomination: “The impact of spreading cultural diversity on the Central Coast, in particular through his promotions and awareness of Scottish culture. He has ensured that the Central Coast runs three annual Scottish events a year. He runs a small family owned Scottish business, he reformed the City of Gosford Pipe Band, started a local group called Central Coast Scots and in the past 12 months he toured the world with the Wiggles as a dancer and musician, played Bagpipes on Jimmy Barnes Tour and used his skills on Sir Paul McCartney’s Tour.”
#80 — Julie Goodwin: Media. Radio. MasterChef. Star 104.5 morning host
Reader nomination: “Her tireless efforts to promote local region produce, fundraising on behalf of Coast Shelter and its outreach projects and her high media profile.”
#81 — Susan Sohn: Advertising. Blogger. Events
Reader nomination: “Susan lives on the Central Coast, owns and operates her own Digital Agency (SOMO Society). She works with clients across the globe including big corporates, not for profits, publishing houses, small businesses, etc. She is known as an engagement specialist and has a team that support her in this endeavour. Additionally, she runs her own brand (GetRealLive) which is designed to support women across the world through her podcast, website and live events including Retreats which are held in the Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Bali. Susan has just finished her first book which is being published by US publisher, Broadstreet Publishing, and will be released in September. Susan is a sought after speaker and influencer both in Australia and across the globe. Susan has quietly influenced more women and men through her words and writing than anyone I know. I wholeheartedly nominate Susan.”
#82 — Michael Cusick: Hospitality. Entertainment Grounds chairman
Reader nomination: “Michael is the chairman of The Entertainment Grounds (Gosford Race Club) and volunteers countless hours of his time towards meetings and events that boost the economy and spirit of the Central Coast. He is also part-owner of The Elanora Hotel, IGA East Gosford and is a certified financial planner. He also places his family first and is incredibly selfless and generous and will always do whatever he can do help those in need.”
#83 — Abigail Boyd: Politics. Greens national secretary. Senate candidate
Reader nomination: “She has been preselected by the Greens to become an Upper House MP.”
#84 — Bob Graham: Politics. Community. Former Wyong Mayor and state politician
Reader nomination: “I feel that over many years Bob has shown and given many hours of his time caring for the Central Coast. Many things today that we share and enjoy are because of his dedication and hard work, plus he is a very well respected and admired by many. He has always gone about achieving things for his beloved Central Coast without wanting fanfare or praise. I think it’s time we all said thank you Bob for your tireless dedication even now in his retirement he’s still always willing to help anybody who seeks out his knowledge and advice and I personally think he is well deserving in being among one of the 100 most influential Coasties”
#85 — Mitchell Gordon: Disability. Charity. Fairhaven Services
Reader nomination: “A tireless and energetic charity worker, Mitchell has raised substantial sum of money for Fairhaven Central Coast over the last twelve months, through his management of their Erina store. He has lifted the charity’s profile by organising a number of special events and instigated the involvement of people living with a disability in retail operations.”
#86 — John Martin: Education. The Lakes College founder. Youth off the Streets
Reader nomination: “John Martin saw a need for alternative education for our young people on the Central Coast and acted on it. In 2017 he opened the door to The Lakes College - Youth Off The Streets. The college provides an alternative to mainstream high school for disadvantaged and disengaged youth. The school operates within Bluehaven Community Centre and engages many local services and organisations. The students numbers were originally 12 but have now increased to 24 with a waiting list of approx. 40. John continues to build this school in to a remarkable place to learn. Students are also encouraged to give back to the community through their service learning programs which have included volunteering at Toukely Neighbourhood Centre, the RSPCA and riding for the Cycle of Courage. Through his work with Youth Off the Streets over a number of years, John has saved many lives. He should be acknowledge for bringing the organisation to our doorstep.”
#87 — Paul Tonkin: Health. Aged care. Central Coast Local Area Health District chairman
Reader nomination: “He devotes so much time to the coast thru his hospital health and numerous other non paying roles he is always working for the Coast behind the scenes.”
#88 — Barbara Elkins: Environment. Central Coast Beekeeping Association
Reader nomination: “Promotion of bee keeping across the Coast. What an inspiration.”
#89 — Kevin Pearce: Clubs. Law. Wyong Leagues Club Group Chairman
Reader nomination: “He has been the leading criminal lawyer on the Central Coast for over 35 years. He has been involved in countless community activities including, the Salvation Army community centre at Wyong, the Community Aid program for the diversion of minor offenders, the administration of the Wyong Leagues Club and its extraordinary expansion, the Wyong Race Club and many other endeavours. His commitment to and passion for, justice and its application over all those years is beyond compare.”
#90 — Edgar Adams: Publisher
Reader nomination: “Edgar is the most connected person I know and has an incredible number of followers on social media and subscribers to his business magazine. He knows everything that’s happening on the Coast and attends all of the key events.”
#91 — Nada Potter: Youth. Chertseydale Cottage Director. Kids Day Out founder
Reader nomination: “Nada Potter is not just Kids Day Out Founder, not just Chertseydale Cottage Director and much more but one of the most silent big influential women in Central Coast Community. She is well known by everybody in our community where people need, Nada is there! There are thousands of people who are grateful for what Nada does quietly. The service and dedication she gave to Central Coast and keep giving is remarkable. People like her must be recognised and celebrated.”
#92 — Mark Zschech: Religion. Hope UC pastor
Reader nomination: “For being a legend of a community leader. He influences thousands of people every week and inspires people to make a difference in their streets from the Peninsula to Gosford to Charmhaven. He promotes Mateship that sees families becoming stronger as a result. Yes he is a Pastor who is making a difference - he’s our Pastor (From HOPE UC) and we are so grateful for the difference his leadership is making in my community starting with my family.”
#93 — Mandy Coolen: Media. Radio. 2GO morning host
Reader nomination: “As a radio personality she is uses her position to support and is constantly looking for, ways to help our community. Two years out of the media until her recent return to the airwaves, was spent working with victims of domestic violence with Coast Shelter (then board member) and working with Options Disability Services. Now in the thick of Gimme 5 for Kids. Always putting others first.”
#94 — Ross Beckley: Emergency services. Behind the Scene founder. PTSD
Reader nomination: “Ross is the founder of Behind The Scene which is a support group for Emergency Service Workers past and present helping people with mental illness and PTSD as a direct result of their work within the community. He raises awareness and provides education all done voluntary in his own time and I believe his work is paramount to the many thousands of first responders he helps.”
#95 — John Mouland: Regional Development Australia Central Coast CEO
Reader nomination: “He is CEO/Director Regional Development Central Coast and an outstanding regional leader.”
#96 — Dawniie Hen: Volunteer. Charity
Reader nomination: “Dawniie is a single mum who inspires and influences others with the way she provides experiences in life for her daughter. Always volunteering her time for charities such as the Ronald McDonald Family Room, Clown Doctors, women and children in Bali.”
#97 — Anne Charlton: Politics. Labor candidate
Reader nomination: “Anne was the lynch pin in influencing the Central Coast vote in the 2017 Marriage Equality campaign. Anne organised multiple events that brought together hundred’s of people from the community, listening to a wide range of ideas and people and being the public voice for central coast residents who wanted their YES voice heard when their elected Liberal Member, Lucy Wicks, failed to engage, listen or represent her electorate. I have witnessed Anne display a level of sincere engagement across a number of other community issues and causes so expect her to maintain a similar level of influence as she did during the marriage equality campaign over the coming 12 months and further into the future.”
#98 — Fr Tadeusz Seremet: Religion. St Patrick’s Catholic Church priest
Reader nomination: “Fr Tadeusz leads his Catholic parish forward with great integrity. His church provides a number of ministries that meet the spiritual, social and welfare needs of the young, the elderly, the grieving, the needy, the sick and those who are simply drawn to the companionship and opportunity to learn and develop talents and skills that his church offers . Father Tadeusz is a great example of someone working quietly without personal fanfare to help others on a daily basis.”
#99 — Christine Burge: Homeless services. Mary Mac’s project director
Reader nomination: “Her contribution to services for the homeless through Mary Mac’s place have been immense. She has built the service to somewhere not only a place for homeless to have a feed, wash clothes and have a shower but also access services such as shelter, legal aide, orange sky and emergency supplies such as foor and blankets. She is a fierce force in helping people achieve self determination and independence. One of our communities heros.”
#100 — Aaron Harpley-Carr: Politics. Independent candidate
Reader nomination: “Aaron does a lot for the local community behind he scenes. He doesn’t chase trophies or recognition. He just has a big heart that really embodies the Central Coast.”