What started as a simple clean-up project turned into a remarkable display of community spirit, as local residents came together to restore the iconic sandstone “Welcome to the Central Coast” sign at Kariong.
Led by Kariong Progress Association President Lisa Bellamy, around 15 volunteers spent the day cleaning the sign and transforming the neglected planter box in front of it with native plants endemic to Kariong and the Central Coast. The community initiative was inspired by recent Central Coast Council plans to spend approximately $1.2 million on three new “Welcome to the Central Coast” signs.
“When we heard about the proposal, many people in the community asked a simple question: why replace existing signs when they could simply be restored?” Ms Bellamy said. “We already have a beautiful sandstone welcome sign at Kariong. It didn’t need replacing. It simply needed some care and attention.”
“Kariong is the gateway to the Central Coast. Thousands of people pass this sign every day. It’s one of the first things visitors see when they arrive on the Coast, so we wanted it to reflect the pride we have in our community.” “It was a dream come true to see so many people come out and lend a hand. The response showed just how much people care about Kariong and the Central Coast.”
Members of the Kariong Somersby Rotary Club also rolled up their sleeves to assist with the project, joining local residents, businesses and community groups in restoring the sign and garden. Former Gosford Quarries General Manager Colin Parry, who spent more than 30 years working with sandstone, provided expert advice on how to clean the sign without damaging it. The Community Environment Network (CEN) donated native tube stock, while Kariong Progress Association and local residents contributed additional native plants. Parkwood Modular Buildings, located nearby, generously provided access to water, while Dean from Rejuvenation Solutions at West Gosford donated his expertise and specialist sandstone restoration products to help bring the sign back to life.
The result is a refreshed entrance to the Central Coast featuring a restored sandstone sign surrounded by locally native plants.
“I believe we are all custodians of the places where we live,” Ms Bellamy said. “When we see something that needs doing, we shouldn’t always wait for someone else to do it. Communities are strongest when people work together. This project was a wonderful example of neighbours, local businesses and community groups all contributing something to make our area a little better.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated plants, equipment, expertise and their time. The finished result belongs to the whole community.” The Kariong Progress Association hopes the project will encourage other community-led initiatives that help maintain and improve local public spaces while strengthening community connections.
