Community Voices Raised Over Duplicate Image Replacement Issue on the Central Coast

The issue of duplicate image replacement has become a pressing concern for the Central Coast community, with many residents and business owners expressing their discontent with the lack of unique and authentic images representing the region.

The matter has gained significant attention in recent months, particularly in light of the ongoing Gosford CBD renewal project and the aspirations for fast rail to Sydney. As the Central Coast Council continues its recovery from administration, the community is eager to see efforts focused on preserving the region's distinct character and promoting its unique identity. With housing affordability for Sydney commuters and flooding and climate resilience planning being major concerns, the issue of duplicate image replacement may seem minor, but it has sparked a wave of concern among locals who feel that their community's individuality is being eroded.

In specific areas such as Terrigal, Avoca Beach, and the Gosford Waterfront, residents have noticed a proliferation of generic and unoriginal images being used to represent their neighbourhoods. The Central Coast Council's own website and social media channels have been criticised for featuring stock photos that do not accurately reflect the region's unique landscapes and attractions. Local organisations such as the Central Coast Tourism Association and the Gosford Erina Business Chamber have also been urged to take a more proactive approach in promoting authentic and original images of the region.

Understanding the Impact

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Central Coast region has experienced a significant increase in tourism over the past year, with visitor numbers rising by 15% between 2024 and 2025. However, a survey conducted by the Central Coast Council found that 70% of respondents believed that the use of duplicate images was having a negative impact on the region's reputation and appeal. With the median house price on the Central Coast currently sitting at around $820,000, according to data from CoreLogic, the issue of duplicate image replacement is not just a matter of aesthetics, but also has potential economic implications.

As the community continues to grapple with this issue, it remains to be seen what concrete actions will be taken to address the problem. In the meantime, residents and business owners are being encouraged to share their own unique images and stories of the Central Coast on social media, using hashtags such as #CentralCoastOriginal and #AuthenticCoast. By promoting a more authentic and original visual identity, the community hopes to attract more visitors and investment to the region, while also preserving its distinct character and charm. The Central Coast Council has announced plans to launch a new tourism campaign in September 2026, which will feature original images and stories from local residents and business owners, providing a glimmer of hope that the region's unique identity will be preserved and promoted.