There was a very sweet boost for tourism on the Central Coast today. The grand opening of the region’s newest chocolate factory attracted a crowd of thousands.

Central Coast high jumper Nicola McDermott has continued her run of good form, after a win in Ireland last week. The 21-year-old Mingara product finished equal third at an international meet in Belgium – after clearing 1-point-8-6 metres. Italian native Elena Vallortigara took out the event…with a jump of 1-point-9-1.   (vision only)

It’ll be a tough gig for six Central Coast Dolphin’s reps this weekend as they prepare to play the West Tigers. The contingent will try their luck in touch football’s inaugural NRL Premiership competition.

Another Men’s Shed is about to be built on the Central Coast. Today, the state’s Mental Health Minister paid the region a visit, pledging nearly $22-thousand for the project.

Central Coast free-diver Adam Stern has broken yet another Australian record. The 29-year-old swam an incredible 94-metres-down on day 1 of the Vertical Blue Championships in the Bahamas.

A campaign to do more for the mental health and well-being of young people on the Central Coast is beginning to take shape. Federal Member for Dobell Emma McBride has joined mental health experts and community members for a roundtable discussion in Tuggerah.

The Entrance has cemented its position at the top of ladder, after a 34 – 10 victory over Wyong to wrap up, wrapping up round 14.

Wyong Fire and Rescue opened its doors to Central Coast kids today for a school holiday workshop. Dozens of families turned out for a taste of life as a professional fire fighter.

Investigations are continuing into a suspicious fire at Berkeley Vale over the weekend. Emergency services were called to Chittaway Wreckers at around 11pm on Saturday night to find around 100 cars engulfed in flames. Specialist fire and rescue crews worked quickly to contain the blaze before it spread. Police are investigating, with Forensics officers combing the site for clues as to the cause of the inferno. (Audio in parts)

The impact of Jimmy Jurd’s short, brave life continues to be felt on the Central Coast. A new play area at Chittaway Bay Lions Club was unveiled over the weekend, with hundreds attending the opening of Jimmy’s Park.