Should Vera stay or should she go?

Should Vera the statue stay or should she go?

That’s the simple question Central Coast Council is asking residents in a poll launched on March 24 which will run through to April 23.

And judging by reaction to a Council Facebook post posing the question, it’s almost unanimous – Vera, the statue, a long-standing feature at Vera’s Water Garden at The Entrance, should stay.

The post has attracted more than 525 comments and counting with most commenters wanting Vera to stay with lots of suggestions for maintenance, makeovers and incorporating her into a new design.

“Vera stays,” said one commenter.

“It’s still in amazing condition considering the age and nostalgia is the best part about it,” said another.

“Stay; I have so many photos of my children and grandchildren at the water park it would be a shame for it to go,” yet another said.

Although some commentators did feel it was time to say goodbye to Vera.

“Time for Vera to go; never been a fan of it,” said one.

Even Member for Dobell Emma McBride had something to say.

“Proud to have secured the money for the Council to undertake this upgrade,” she posted.

“And I’m firmly in the Vera stays camp!”.

Central Coast Council is upgrading Vera’s Water Garden as part of its The Entrance Revitalisation Project and has invited residents to participate in the poll to determine Vera’s future.

The statue is now under consideration for replacement as Vera’s Water Garden undergoes a significant upgrade to a modern, zero-depth splash park, enhancing accessibility and interactive play for all users.

Theupgrade will begin after the autumn school holidays, with expected completion by the spring school holidays, weather permitting.

The central question is simple: Does Vera’s statue stay, or does it go?

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the engagement aimed to provide the community with an opportunity to voice their opinion on a matter that impacts the local landscape.

 “We recognise Vera’s statue holds different meanings for different people, and this process is designed to ensure all preferences are heard,” Smith said. 

 “It’s an A or B question.

“If Vera stays, she will receive a makeover, so she fits in with her upgraded surroundings.

“If she goes, a new piece of play equipment will take her place, and she will be safely stored pending a further decision about her future.”

The poll is being conducted through Council’s online engagement platform, Your Voice Our Coast, until April 23.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna said Vera’s Water Garden had long been a favourite attraction at The Entrance for locals and visitors, so the community’s views were important.

“Many people who have grown up on the Coast will have fond memories of visiting Vera’s Water Garden as a child and many have recreated the experience with their own children,” he said.

“That’s why we’re looking at Vera’s statue as much more than just a statue – it’s a landmark of sorts and we want to encourage people in the community to have their say. 

 “Whether your preference is to see Vera receive a makeover or have her replaced with new equipment, we want to hear from you.

“The feedback received from the poll will help shape Council’s final decision.”

The Entrance Revitalisation Project also includes upgrades to The Grant McBride Baths and the installation of a new accessible swing and shade sails at The Entrance Waterfront Plaza. 

The project is fully funded by a $1.25M grant from the Australian Government’s Investing in Our Communities Program with the Vera’s Water Garden upgrade receiving $750,000 of this funding.

 For more information and to participate in the poll, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/vera