In a move that reflects the burgeoning population on the New South Wales Central Coast, the Cumberland Newspaper Group has introduced two separate publications of the Central Coast Express Advocate to cover Gosford City and Wyong with their own newspapers. The first edition of the new papers will hit the streets on Wednesday, June 30, and will be published each day from Wednesday to Friday.
Mark Elgood, Cumberland Newspaper Group general manager, says the decision was made in response to the growth, diversity and stature of the Wyong and Gosford City areas of the Central Coast.
"The new publications will increase coverage of local news, council and community events in each area and the Central Coast at large. Our aim will be to provide greater relevance for both readers and advertisers alike," Elgood says.
"The Central Coast has experienced rapid population growth over the past decade and the Express Advocate is committed to supporting growth in the region. Our strong circulation gains in recent years show that the Express Advocate is the preferred source of news and information in the region and the move to two local publications for Wyong and Gosford expands our commitment.
"Both local government areas on the Central Coast, the Wyong Shire and Gosford City deserve their own newspaper. Readers and advertisers tell us they want expanded coverage and more local flavour."
Bob Osburn, Cumberland Newspaper Group editor in chief, says, "Our focus on local news sets the Express Advocate apart and the two new publications will build on this. Our goal is to cover all the important things that are happening in this vibrant region, which stretches from Gwandalan in the north to Patonga in the south."
The Express Advocate in the third largest circulation community newspaper in Australia and has been serving its local community for more than 50 years. Osburn says that its sponsorship and community partnership commitments, which have totalled over $1m in the past 18 months, will continue.
