Access News Australia - April 2022 by Access News Australia (ANA)

APRIL 2022 | EDITION 131

REFRAMING LEADERSHIP How Volodymyr Zelensky restored human dignity: 11

BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE

CHILDCARE CENTRE AWARDS Special winner’s feature from the gala night: 15

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CONVERSATIONS Great divide in workplace mental health management

HE rise in mental injuries in the workplaces has led to a major disconnect between employees and managers, hindering crucial conversations. New research by Allianz reveals two in five or 43% of employees are uncomfortable initiating crucial conversations in the workplace, with nearly a quarter not satisfied with how often their manager checks in with them about their mental health. Workplace mental health or psychological injury claims have increased since pre-pandemic times, yet 90% of managers’ report they are satisfied by their workplaces’ ability to create a mentally healthy environment in the last 12 months. More page 9.

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LIFESTYLEE REFRESH How to escape pe the feeling off Ground Hog Day: 35

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Collection of million specimens

World class herbarium to bloom USTRALIA’S biggest and newest Herbarium facility, with a collection of more than one million plant specimens, has opened at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan. Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the National Herbarium of New South Wales would become an important cultural and scientific asset and safeguard the Australian Institute of Botanical Science’s growing collection of important plant specimens. “It is fitting that this world-class facility has found a new home in the growing Western Parkland City, made possible through a commitment of $60M from the NSW Government as part of the Western Sydney City Deal (WSCD),” Mr Ayres said. “This has brought an important cultural and scientific attraction to the west and more than 100 leading scientists to work in Sydney’s south-west.” Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport Rob Stokes said the new Herbarium held one of the most significant and precious botanical resources in the Southern Hemisphere. “This world class facility will play a crucial role in discovering, understanding and protecting specimens for future generations and reinforce the Australian

Smoking ceremony at the opening.

Institute of Botanical Science as a global plant science leader,” Mr Stokes said. Member for Camden Peter Sidgreaves said he was proud to welcome the Herbarium to Sydney’s south-west after close to 170 years at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. “With more than 8000 new plant specimens being added to the collection every year, the Herbarium will support vital scientific research and be essential in informing decisions about the conservation of our natural environment,” Mr Sidgreaves said.

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres.

The facility’s innovative, functional, and sustainable design is inspired by the waratah seed pod of New South Wales’s floral emblem. A key feature of the facility are the six protective vaults with precisely controlled environmental conditions, which are assisted by the building’s elegant, long span “fly-roof ” to shield the collection from bushfires and extreme weather conditions. As part of the move to the new facility, the largest herbarium imaging project in the southern hemisphere took place to

For more information visit the website www.australianbotanicgarden.com.au

WSBA enables readers to appreciate and engage with the physical, community, cultural and business environments of one of Australia's fastest growing regions, Greater Western Sydney.

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capture each specimen as a high-resolution image to create a new tech-enabled era of management. The WSCD is a partnership between the three levels of government overseen by the Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and Arts, Paul Fletcher MP, the NSW Minister for Western Sydney, the Hon Stuart Ayres MP, and the eight Mayors of the Western Parkland City.

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WESTERN SYDNEY MEDIA ALLIANCE Western Sydney Business Access (WSBA) ACCESS NEWS AUSTRALIA PTY LTD ABN 39 600 436 799 Publisher/editor: Michael Walls M: 0407 783 413. E: michael@wsba.com.au Associate Editor: Dallas Sherringham Journalists: Di Bartok. Account Managers: Julie Jackson: 0447 291 780; Graham Maughan: 0431 557 791 Contributors: Adam Simpson, Jacob Richardson, John Mellor. Printer: New Age Printing Design: Design2Pro, DMC Advertising Group. General enquiries: info@wsba.com.au Phone: 02 4572 2336 Fax: 02 4572 2340 We pay respect to the Traditional Custodians and First Peoples of our region and acknowledge their continued connection to their country and culture.

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Waterfront investment for generations: 8

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$1.6B in WestInvest grants EST and South-West Sydney community groups can now apply for WestInvest funding with the $1.6B Community Project Grants program open to registrations of interest today. Community, sports, multicultural and faith-based groups, non-government organisations, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, universities, Local Councils, registered charities and more are encouraged to put forward transformative ideas for their neighbourhoods. Eligible projects must be based in one or more of the 15 eligible Sydney Local Government Areas and deliver transformational infrastructure that addresses one of the six focus areas: 1. Parks, urban spaces, and green space; 2. Enhancing community infrastructure such as local sporting grounds; 3. Modernising local schools; 4. Creating and enhancing arts and cultural facilities; 5. Revitalising high streets; 6. Clearing local traffic.

Treasurer Matt Kean said the allocation of $1.6B to community grant projects would enable locals to take the lead on infrastructure projects that would benefit the community. “Any eligible organisation with a great idea to improve livability in the West and South-West can now apply for a share in these grants to fund a project which will make a difference in their community,” Mr Kean said. “This isn’t about major roads or tunnels or highways – this is about more quality green space, better high streets, strengthening the connection between schools and communities and improving local facilities. This is about allocating funds to projects that will make a real difference in the West and South-West of Sydney.” Minister for Enterprise and Trade, and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said WestInvest had been designed to fund projects that address real, local community need. “This $1.6B grant program is significant, and its importance lies in that it is driven by local people with local ideas,” Mr Ayres said.

“This isn’t a top-down approach to community improvements – this is about informed, capable community groups being able to access funds for projects to transform their communities on a tangible, local level. “Already we have had more than 5,300 submissions suggest projects through the WestInvest Have Your Say website, so we know the people of the West and SouthWest Sydney want to have input into the infrastructure projects in their neighbourhood.” Community organisations will be able to participate in the mandatory Registration of Interest (ROI) process by 21 April, 2022 to help inform their applications and determine their eligibility. Applicants will be advised of the outcomes of the ROI process before grants open for eight weeks from May 2, 2022 until June 27, 2022. To find out more about WestInvest and how your organisation can apply and to access application support, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/grants-andfunding/westinvest

Treasurer Matt Kean.

Surge in odometer tampering

ONSUMERS are being warned about odometer tampering after a four-fold increase in the number of fines issued for the offence in NSW, with hundreds of thousands of kilometres being knocked off vehicle odometers and sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said as used motor vehicle sales have risen amid the COVID-19 pandemic, so too have incidents of odometer fraud where perpetrators wind back the mileage or replace the odometer with one showing fewer kilometres.

“NSW Fair Trading Investigators dished out $112,200 in fines and 76 penalty notices in 2021 and 2022 – a huge jump from 22 total penalties in 2020,” Ms Petinos said. In one case a seller shaved off more than 400,000km off a 2012 Subaru XV, reducing the

odometer from 470,000km down to 52,709km. The vehicle was then sold for $32,000, an $11,000 increase on the original sale price. To report suspected odometer tampering, visit: www. service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/report-suspected-odometer-tampering

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Precise Precincts named

Aerotropolis open for business

Artist impressions of the Aerotropolis.

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE Western Sydney Aerotropolis is set for take-off after the NSW Government released the final Precinct Plan for the nation’s biggest infrastructure project. When completed, Aerotropolis will support more than 100,000 jobs and provide 11,400 new homes. The detailed information on the precincts provides precise opportunities for business in Western Sydney. The finalised plans give the community, investors, business and developers the certainty they need to plan for the future. “The final Precinct Plan will enable

the development process to begin in the Aerotropolis, and kick start the benefits and opportunities that a new international airport will bring to Western Sydney,” Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said. “The finalisation of the plan for the initial precincts lays the foundation for the transformation of 6,500 hectares of land, with new homes, jobs and open spaces, supported by the right infrastructure.” The package includes finalised plans for the Aerotropolis Core, Badgerys Creek, Northern Gateway, Agribusiness and Wianamata-South Creek precincts following extensive consultation. Mr Roberts said developer contributions under the special infrastructure contri-

bution framework would fund up to $1.1B in infrastructure like roads, public transport, health facilities and schools, to support the new city.

Thriving commercial city “The Aerotropolis will be our newest, thriving commercial city to rival the world’s greatest and that’s why we took time to get the planning right, setting us up for success over the decades to come, ” he said. “We’ve listened to the community and the Independent Community Commissioner, and finalised these plans in line with their feedback.” Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the feedback from the community had created a better balanced Aerotropo-

lis plan, that would create more jobs closer to where people live. “This is a once-in-a generation opportunity to deliver a thriving new city for Western Sydney,” Mr Ayres said. “Infrastructure investment in the airport, roads and the new Metro will make the Aerotropolis one of the best-connected areas in the country, making the Western Parkland City the best place to live, work and invest in for generations to come. “The revised Open Space Network will ensure more than 95% of homes in the future Aerotropolis are located within 400m, or five minutes’ walk of open space.” For more information and to view the final plans visit: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/aerotropolis

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Our Brand The Academy’s brand has become synonymous with quality - both in the standard of talented young athletes we deal with, and the quality of our program content. Western Sydney Academy of Sport graduates include numerous athletes who have competed at a national and international level: Jessica Fox OAM - triple Olympian (2012, 2016, 2021) and World Champion - Canoe/Kayak (Slalom); Taylah Tsitsikronis - Olympian (2021) - Softball Rachel Lack - Olympian (2021) - Softball Paige Hadley - Australian Diamonds Netball Squad and Captain of the NSW Swifts; Kim Ravaillion - Australian Diamonds Netball Squad; Amanda Spratt - Olympian (2012, 2021) - Cycling; Ian Borrows - Olympian (2016) - Canoe Slalom. Regional Academies of Sport across NSW contribute significantly to both the economic and social value of local communities. Western Sydney Academy of Sport currently contributes to the regional economy through: Supporting over 200 sub elite athletes across a range of 11 sport programs; Facilitating over 4,150 volunteer hours which equates to 16 full time jobs; Creation of $4.9m in economic & social value for the region.

About Us The Western Sydney Academy of Sport is a non-profit community based sporting organisation that assists western Sydney’s talented young athletes achieve their sporting goals, through the provision of quality development programs. Academy programs provide localised training and development opportunities not only for the young athletes of the region, but also for coaches and administrators. The Academy’s programs have established benchmark standards and value in the officially recognised development pathway for athletes in sport. The Academy collaborates with State Sporting Organisations, the NSW Institute of Sport, professional sporting clubs and local Associations to ensure our programs are fully endorsed and provide an integrated step in the pathway for talented athlete development. The Academy’s holistic programs provide not only on field development opportunities, they also focus on educational and personal development of the athlete. Aside from laying the foundations for athletes to become better within their sport, foundations are also laid for the athletes to become better citizens within their communities. The Academy receives funding from the NSW Government, but is not purely a government funded organisation. The Academy relies on the support of its major business partners, community partners and the partners aligned with each of the sport programs to continue to further develop and ensure the best possible service is provided to each and every young athlete, coach, official and administrator who progress through the organisation.

Penrith Stadium, 143 Station Street, Penrith NSW @WesternSydneyAcademyOfSport

Partner With Us The Academy strives to align with strong business partners and supporters who share the same common vision and core values. We are in a fortunate position to receive support from a number of partners who provide generous contributions toward the overall operations and success of the Academy. Each of our individual sport programs are supported by their own unique group of partners, who have a keen interest and involvement in that particular sport. Our growing list of official suppliers ensure that we can continually offer the best possible products and services to our athletes, coaches, officials and administrators with preferred pricing and discounted purchases. Without our highly valued major business partners, sport program partners, official venues and suppliers, we would not be able to continue to deliver our services to the talented young athletes of Western Sydney. The Academy offers a wide range of opportunities for all levels of partnership. All partnership opportunities have a genuine community focus and allow your business to be aligned with a business committed to making a difference to the young athletes of western Sydney. Just like your business, we appreciate that your objectives are unique. We can tailor any of the following partnerships to meet your specific requirements.

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Australia Post stamp of approval ORK has started on Australia Post’s new warehouse, creating 1,700 new construction jobs and injecting more than $55M into the Western Sydney economy. Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said Australia Post has approval to process more than 400,000 parcels per day at its new warehouse under construction in Kemps Creek “Australia Post will be the latest company to move into Goodman and Brickworks’ Oakdale West Industrial Estate in Kemps Creek, joining companies such as Amazon and Coles,” Mr Roberts said. “It’ll start processing 200,000 parcels a day when it opens in early 2023, with the ability to scale up to more than 400,000 a day with further automation. “Another two warehouses were also approved in the same application to be built in the Estate, which could create an extra 800 construction jobs and 150 operational jobs and a further $20 million in investment to the community down the track.” Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said construction on the new warehouse kicked off in January and will be completed early 2023.

Artist impression of the new warehouse.

“As people have turned more and more to online shopping, it’s imperative that our postal system keeps up with the surging demand,” Ms Davies said. “This was one of seven state significant warehouse developments to be approved

across Sydney last year, including Woolworths in Auburn and Marsden Parks’ Sydney Business Park.” Together these approvals have paved the way for $693 million in investment and created the opportunity for more than

5,500 new construction and operation jobs. For more information on the proposal visit https:// www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/ project/40341

Car registrations go digital

ORGETTING or losing vehicle registration paperwork is now a thing of the past, with the NSW Government launching a fully digitised, paperless rego service. Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the new Digital Vehicle Reg-

istration service is a one-stop shop for millions of drivers, offering digital renewal notifications and a Certificate of Registration all in one place. “Around 16 per cent of registrations are not renewed on time due to paperwork being damaged, misplaced or simply stuck on the fridge and

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forgotten about,” Mr Dominello said. “Through the new service, motorists can opt-in to get electronic reminder notices and access their digital Certificate of Registration through their MyServiceNSW Account.” To opt-in to Digital Vehicle Registration, visit www.service.nsw.gov.au.

Are you eligible for free solar?

The NSW Government is trialling a new way to assist people on low incomes with their power bills by installing free solar systems for up to 3,000 eligible households in place of their Low Income Household Rebate. This program aims to improve energy D൵RUGDELOLW\ E\ KHOSLQJ KRXVHKROGV XQORFN ORQJ WHUPV VDYLQJV RQ WKHLU HOHFWULFLW\ ELOOV :KLOH this means you will no longer receive the $285 annual rebate on your electricity bill, you could receive up to $600 in savings per year from your new solar system! The program is only available to a limited number of households that live in the region and meet the eligibility criteria. When participating in this program households will receive a free, IXOO\ LQVWDOOHG N: VRODU V\VWHP LQ SODFH RI WKHLU /RZ ,QFRPH +RXVHKROG 5HEDWH SAE Group are the approved provider, designing and installing solar systems to eligible homes in your region. To be eligible you must: Currently be receiving the Low Income Household Rebate Agree not to receive the rebate for ten years Own your own home Not already have a solar PV system +ROG D YDOLG 3HQVLRQHU &RQFHVVLRQ &DUG RU D 'HSDUWPHQW RI 9HWHUDQ $൵DLUV Gold Card If you are not the registered homeowner, but your spouse is, you may be considered eligible collectively as a household $ N: V\VWHP LV GHVLJQHG WR JHQHUDWH DQ DYHUDJH RI NZK SHU GD\ ZKLFK ZLOO GHOLYHU electricity savings depending on each household’s energy consumption. Managing Director RI 6$( *URXS *OHQ $VKWRQ FRPPHQWV ³:H NQRZ HOHFWULFLW\ ELOOV FRQWLQXH WR SODFH D ORW RI SUHVVXUH RQ KRXVHKROGV DQG ZH DUH SOHDVHG WR EH ZRUNLQJ ZLWK WKH 16: *RYHUQPHQW WR KHOS ease the pressure on low income households.” SAE Group are an Australian owned and operated organisation with over ten years’ experience in the solar industry. SAE Group are a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer, DQG KROG DFFUHGLWDWLRQV ,62 $6 1=6 IRU VDIHW\ DQG TXDOLW\ V\VWHPV 6DIHW\ LV SDUDPRXQW WR XV DQG LW RXU JRDO WR HQVXUH ZH SURYLGH TXDOLW\ VRODU V\VWHPV WR HOLJLEOH households that will deliver ongoing savings for many years to come.

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Artist impressions of the development.

Jewel of Western Sydney

Waterfront investment for generations ESTERN Sydney will soon enjoy a greatly enhanced riverside walk and nature reserve thanks to work starting on a $13M waterfront investment at Tench Reserve as part of the NSW Government’s $50M Parks for People Program. Tench Reserve in Jamisontown will see the creation of a new amphitheatre, inclusive playspace and improvements to the 7km River Walk stretching along the Nepean River, and is the first of eight new and upgraded parks to begin construction. Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the works

would support a growing community in Western Sydney and deliver improvements to more than 11 hectares of regional open space close to homes. “This is a milestone for the Parks for People Program as the first to get underway, inspired by one of Penrith’s most beautiful natural assets, the Nepean River,” Mr Roberts said. “Along with the upgraded wharf precinct and improved amenities, the park will feature an inclusive playspace, better access to the water, landscaping and 80 new trees.” Mr Roberts said Parks for People would create hundreds of new jobs from its $50 million investment in new open spac-

es, including in Camden, Campbelltown, Fairfield, Parramatta, Penrith, Northern Beaches and The Hills. Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said six of the eight parks in the program were in Sydney’s West and would support the Government’s priority of increasing the proportion of homes in urban areas within ten minutes’ walk of quality green, open and public space. “We’re working in partnership with councils to set a new standard for high-quality public open space, with easily accessible places to relax, exercise, and connect with families and friends in the

beauty of well-designed green spaces,” Mr Ayres said. “The upgrades build a stronger connection between the park and the river and will support our vision of making the Nepean River precinct an exceptional destination for nature and recreation. Our investment in the river precinct has made it the beating hear of Penrith” Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the Nepean River was the region’s greatest natural asset and a much-loved recreational destination for residents and visitors alike. Tench Reserve is due to be completed in December 2022 with the other parks to get underway throughout the year.

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Work starts on Liverpool Hospital OUTH-western Sydney communities can look forward to accessing more first class health services close to home, with construction beginning on a six-storey hospital tower as part of the $790M Liverpool Health and Academic Precinct. Premier Dominic Perrottet said the new hospital would deliver enhanced health facilities and will include an integrated cancer centre, a larger emergency department, intensive care unit and more theatres. “The $790M health and academic precinct the NSW Government is building here at Liverpool is one of the largest hospital redevelopments across the state – and will transform healthcare services in this rapidly growing part of Sydney,” Mr Perrottet said. “We have the best health system in the nation and we are ensuring that no matter where you live in our State you have access to the best healthcare facilities.” The new hospital will also include a larger neonatal intensive care unit and six new in-patient units including paediatric, maternity and women’s health services – all designed to cater to the area’s growing pop-

Artist impression of the new Liverpool Hospital.

ulation. A new multi-storey car park, which is nearing completion, will also provide an additional 500 spaces across the campus. Minister for Health Brad Hazzard and Member for Holsworthy Melanie Gibbons turned the sod on the site of the new hospital tower and toured the project’s ‘Buraga

Gul’ skilling and employment hub which will help drive education and jobs throughout construction and beyond. Mr Hazzard said the new precinct in the heart of Liverpool would be an attractive drawcard for clinicians, specialists, researchers and educators locally and worldwide,

which would boost the community and deliver better long term health outcomes. “The NSW Government is investing an unprecedented $790M into south-western Sydney to meet the community’s healthcare needs and also provide employment opportunities for our future generations of nurses, doctors, researchers and educators,” Mr Hazzard said. Project builder Lendlease has opened a new skilling and employment hub next to the hospital construction site to create more education and employment opportunities for south-western Sydney communities and boost the local workforce. The new precinct forms part of the NSW Government’s record $10.8B investment in health infrastructure over four years to 2024-2025. Since 2011, the NSW Government has delivered more than 170 hospitals and health facilities across the state, with more than 110 currently underway. Learn more about the $790M redevelopment of Liverpool Hospital at www.lhap. health.nsw.gov.au

Small business support extended MALL businesses hit hardest by the Omicron wave have been handed a further lifeline, with the Small Business Support Program extended to a new closing date of April 29, 2022. The financial support package has assisted businesses, workers and the performing arts across NSW with cash flow and to continue trading.

Treasurer Matt Kean said the four-week extension was important to ensure small businesses have the resources they need to survive COVID-19 and bounce back. “This extension will allow more businesses to apply,and takes into account potential application delays for businesses from flood-affected areas,” Mr Kean said. Small Business Minister Eleni Petinos

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said that due to the crucial role played by the 800,000 small businesses across NSW in providing essential goods, services and jobs, the Government wanted to ensure sufficient time was provided for as many to apply as possible. The Small Business Support Program provides eligible businesses a lump sum payment of 20 per cent of weekly payroll with a

minimum payment of $500 per week and a maximum payment of $5,000 per week. Businesses with an annual turnover of between $75,000 and $50 million that experienced a decline in turnover of at least 40 per cent in January 2022 and the start of February 2022 are eligible. For more information please visit www.nsw.gov.au.

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The great workplace disconnect

Mental health needs discussion

“

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE rise in mental injuries in the workplaces has led to a major disconnect between employees and managers, hindering crucial conversations. New research by Allianz reveals two in five or 43% of employees are uncomfortable initiating crucial conversations in the workplace, with nearly a quarter not satisfied with how often their manager checks in with them about their mental health. Workplace mental health or psychological injury claims have increased since pre-pandemic times, yet 90% of managers’ report they are satisfied by their workplaces’ ability to create a mentally healthy environment in the last 12 months. As a result, to encourage employees and managers to have more open and honest conversations, Allianz has created the Crucial Conversations Toolkits. The toolkits provide both employees and managers with tips to navigate crucial – and sometimes uncomfortable – conversations about challenges in the workplace. It shows that despite a new year and revitalised hopes for stability, Australian workers are experiencing further disruption as the pandemic continues to put pressure on the workplace. A crucial conversation is a discussion with high stakes, differing opinions and strong emotions and if handled poorly or ignored, the outcome can lead to strained relationships or broader mental health issues in the workplace.

Dr Mark Cross

The new research comes as Allianz data reveals workplace mental health injuries are continuing to rise, with active psychological injury claims increasing 12% since the pandemic began. In response, Allianz is seeking to understand the current challenges facing both employees and senior managers in the workplace, and the

isfied with how often their manager checks in with them about their mental health.

Check in with team members

Confusion is being felt across every industry and demographic. Organisations and individuals need to feel comfortable initiating and managing these conversations and this shift can only happen with a change in workplace culture, education and attitude.” barriers in the way of conducting crucial conversations. While the urgency for open dialogue around mental health in the workplace has never been clearer, more than a third of employees do not feel satisfied with their employer’s ability to create a mentally workplace and nearly a quarter are not sat-

Tips for the crucial conversation For employees where possible: • Write a list of the topics you want to discuss and think about how you’re going to discuss them. This can help you feel more confident when entering the conversation. • Know that it is ok to feel nervous, and consider speaking to a support person before, during or after your crucial conversation. • Clearly share your expectations for the meeting upfront, ensuring you’re working towards a positive outcome. • Approach the meeting with solutions in mind, while being open to negotiating to ensure the solution is suitable for all involved.

• Follow up on the conversation in writing to ensure you and your manager are aligned on the discussion and agree on the solution that has been reached.

For employers where possible: • Before the meeting, look to understand what the discussion will be about so you can lean on internal resources or support teams where needed. • Bring an empathetic and respectful approach to the discussion. While you may not personally agree with the approach to the topic, expressing empathy will help you digest

their perspective and allow them to feel heard. • Use verbal and body language techniques such as direct eye contact and relaxed voice and facial expressions to set a safe tone for the discussion. • Follow up in writing with the next steps following the conversation. Where appropriate, discuss the matter with your HR team or your own direct manager to determine an appropriate solution. • Suggest solutions to your organisation to further support your team, for example, modernising your workplace mental health policy.

In contrast, nearly a quarter of managers say they proactively check in with team members regularly to create opportunities to share their concerns about mental health, however, almost a third have an expectation that their teams need to make them aware. While two in five managers believe that facilitating crucial conversations and having an open discussion promotes a mentally healthy workplace, the research found that 65% of employees would not turn to their manager first to conduct these conversations, with 41% of those turning to their peers or someone outside their workplace before their manager. Dr Mark Cross, mental health expert and author of Changing Minds and Anxiety said the Allianz research revealed that both employees and managers want and expect to be having crucial conversations, but there was a growing disconnect between both groups. “Employees feel their manager should proactively bring up difficult topics or discuss their mental health with them, while managers feel their direct reports should be responsible for bringing their concerns forward.” “This confusion is being felt across every industry and demographic. Organisations and individuals need to feel comfortable initiating and managing these conversations and this shift can only happen with a change in workplace culture, education and attitude.” Australian employees rank the top three most uncomfortable topics to raise with their manager as requesting a pay rise at 68%, requesting a promotion 55% and raising issues around bullying and harassment at 43%. Similarly, managers rank their direct reports requesting a pay rise 53%, discussing bullying and harassment 49% and requesting a promotion 47% are the top three most uncomfortable topics for them. Additionally, in 2022 managers are expecting their team to raise concerns around flexible working arrangements at 55%, increased pressure and workload at 35% or extended leave at 30%. Through its Personal Injury division, Allianz is a leading provider of Workers Compensation and offers a range of support and services for the evolving needs of Australian employers and employees. Visit the Allianz Workplace Mental Health Hub to learn more about crucial conversations and access the Crucial Conversations Toolkits for employees and managers.

It’s a new way of training for West ESTERN Sydney manufacturing workers will be able to respond quickly to industry training needs as part of the NSW Government’s $37.4M New Education Training Model (NETM). Western Sydney University and GE Additive have teamed up to deliver job– specific short courses at the MakerSpace facility at the Kingswood campus. Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the “first micro-credential” course will launch this month, pro-

W 10

viding students with the skills necessary to secure newly-created jobs. “This sends the message that Western Sydney is an optimal place to train the workers of tomorrow in the most industry relevant way. We’re working with GE Additive to provide the skills necessary for their metal additive design and 3D printing business,” Mr Ayres said. “The New Education and Training Model (NETM) delivered through the Western Parkland City Authority helps us build the pool of talent in Western Sydney, it’s a win for industry and workers making

it possible to upskill in a meaningful way in as few as 40 hours.” “There are huge opportunities for people in Western Sydney to take up highskilled, high-paid jobs and under this new model, businesses can propose the design of a micro-credential and work directly with the education sector.” Chair of Western Parkland City Authority Jennifer Westacott said the courses will feed the pipeline of skilled workers for a range of cutting-edge industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, defence and pharmaceuticals manufacturing.

Jennifer Westacott.

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS APRIL 2022

LEADERSHIP

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Reframing Heroism

The ultimate test of leadership  PRISCELLA MABOR HEN the Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky was offered safe passage out of his country’s warzone in the first days following the Russian invasion, he firmly announced: “I need ammunition, not a ride.“ As leader of 44 million Ukranians, facing down a neighbouring country of 144 million, he was asked the ultimate test of any leader facing occupation. His response was one of resistance facing down the Goliath of Russian might, and he communicated in an authentic and plain-spoken manner which appeared to unite a nation. Overnight he assumed the position of wartime leader in lock step with the citizens of his country. Since that day in February, every speech Zelensky has delivered from behind a desk, out on the streets or in a bunker standing side by side by with the citizens of Ukraine, has been carefully dissected. More recently, he has been addressing Parliaments of many countries and on March 30, he addressed the Australian Federal Parliament. Many are looking now for clues as to what and how explains this one person and their elevation to global hero / leader. For some in elected positions, questions of leadership arise in a crisis. For others, they may be tapped on the shoulder or they may volunteer for the role. At challenging times like this the Community Migrant Resource Centre has been reflecting on heroism, leadership, sacrifice and collective action on a more localized level. At our recent 25-year Anniversary, we paid tribute to Weyata Badu who worked tirelessly for the Sierra Leonean community here in Sydney, after the brutal ethnic cleansing campaign in her home country. When a crisis unfolds, how do we respond as individuals, communities, as a society. As we have learnt from global pandemics and the recent floods, a community-led response generally emerges well before a government, and often operates quietly in the shadows of our suburban streets. The Ukranian community in Sydney and across Australia has now been called to action. I spoke to Olha who volunteers with the Ukranian Association of Sydney, who was precise in when she assumed a

Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelenski.

leadership role.” It was 2pm on Thursday the February 24 when Putin started bombing Kiev, then I started work.” Having fled to Australia following Russia’s invasion and annexation of Crimea in 2014, Olha only relocated to Sydney from Melbourne last year.

Social capital working at its best “I see myself first as as Ukranian, before I see myself as part of an association. First, I was able to help my family, and then I started helping others with the knowledge I had gained. Following her own escape with her family, there is much that Olha has learnt over the last 5 – 7 years and that includes how to navigate a number of complex systems. Social capital working at its best. “I was able to help Ukranians overseas with visa information, explain the process, recommend airlines, talk about entry requirements, where to find accommodation here and access to basics upon arrival.”

For five weeks, Olha has been assuming the role of DFAT, immigration and resettlement; all on a voluntary basis while working part-time as a marketing manager. This was a crisis that was not completely unexpected but escalated quickly as four million fled across borders and six million became internally displaced. “I had to build a structure of support overnight and launch a team of volunteers who were coordinating accommodation and the data bases. We then shared our best practice methods, nationally. “Interestingly, it is not only Ukranians who have stepped forward to take in the new arrivals. We have many Australian families providing housing, plus also Russian families helping. “ Olha and others who fled following the Crimea annexation, are the “pioneers”. Post WW2, Ukranians arrived here, but Crimea ignited a second wave. “I came on a skilled visa and I knew I was going to get as far away from Europe as possible. It was either going to be Canada

or Australia. Europe is at risk and you can see what is happening now.“ While the men stay behind to defend, those arriving are mostly women, children and the elderly. For those in their 80s who have just arrived, they have left their homeland possibly for good. With the Prime Minister announcing last week, 4, 500 places being allocated for Ukranians over the coming weeks and months, there will no doubt be many more stories like Olha’s out there. It is these stories that reframe what active citizenship, the restoration of human dignity and serving the needs of the wider community, are all about. Leadership does not always have to announce itself by hanging a shingle outside the door; it can operate in many shapes and forms to ignite the human spirit in us all. Priscella Mabor Inclusion Strategy & Innovations Manager a the Community Migrant Resource Centre. Visit www.cmrc.com.au

Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation established in 1996. CMRC is a leader in the provision of specialised support services to newly arrived migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants. CMRC works within a community capacity building framework to encourage individuals and multicultural communities to identify and address their own issues. It works in collaborative partnerships with a great number of agencies to provide services which have both an immediate and long term benefit for the community. CMRC employs over 60 full time, part-time and casual multi-lingual staﬀ. Paramatta office Level 4, 1 Horwood Place Parramatta, NSW 2150 Ph: (02) 9687 9901 Monday – Friday: 9AM – 5PM

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Community Hub Castle Towers Level 3, 6-14 Castle Street, Castle Hill, NSW 2154 Northern Region office

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Praise for innovative planning practices

Penrith wins for Places of Penrtih ENRITH City Council is adding to its list of achievements after winning an award and receiving a commendation at the 2022 National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA) Awards. The awards recognise innovation and excellence in projects and initiatives that support the development of growth areas across the country. Council’s planning team took out the Research and Practice category with their Places of Penrith submission. Places of Penrith is a strategic framework that establishes a vision for Penrith and provides directions for change to create better places for the community to connect, play, learn, work and live. Once completed, the framework will incorporate a suite of Council’s city-shaping strategies that explore Penrith’s challenges as well as its vast growth opportunities. Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen attended the event and was thrilled to hear Council named as a winner. “Penrith is future-focused and aims to be on the front foot so to have our innovative, evidence-based approach to planning acknowledged is an outstanding achievement–and I congratulate the team for their continued efforts in this space,” Cr Hitchen said. “Places of Penrith has been developed to support Council’s ability to meet and exceed the planning requirements; it’s an extensive body of work underpinned by several of our existing strategies, including the Employment Lands Strategy and the Green Grid Strategy, and yet to be finalised strategies including planning for our centres, corridors, housing and rural lands.

Penrith City Council’s General Manager, Warwick Winn, Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen, and Director–City Futures, Kylie Powell, at the NGAA Awards event for 2022.

Council has consolidated a number of these key strategies to effectively plan for and respond to the needs of the growing community while monitoring and evaluating these outcomes. The Quarter Prospectus details the vision for a world-class centre of excellence in Penrith known as The Quarter, a 400-hectare health and education precinct at Kingswood. The Quarter Prospectus connects residents, students, investors, health practitioners and researchers to the vision and opportunities for the precinct.

“Council continues to lead the way in planning–well done to all who contribute to putting these strategies in place and positioning our city for the future,” Cr Hitchen said. To read more about Places of Penrith and Council’s work in strategic planning, Visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/buildingdevelopment/planning-zoning/vision-strategies-plans. To find out more about The Quarter and request a copy of The Quarter Prospectus, go to www.thequarter.org.au]thequarter.org.au.

Penrith Smart Space HE self-storage industry is experiencing an unprecedented building boom fuelled by a growth in apartment style living. Combined with escalating property prices, the demand for self- storage and mini warehousing is a great investment which will continue for many years to come. Smart Space storage units and mini-warehouses are located in a modern, state-of-the art facility that has been designed with your comfort, convenience and security in mind. With an entry point price of $145,000, it provides a great opportunity to invest in commercial real estate with minimal outlay. With many small and online businesses operating from home, Smart Space provides an affordable storage and mini-warehouse solution. This secure facility is the ideal space solution for tradespeople, business and homeowners to store tools, archived files, stock, furniture and personal items. Smart Space is also appealing to hobby enthusiasts or anyone wishing to securely store their boat, water-sport equipment, caravan or extra vehicles. Key investment benefits include: • Affordable purchase price • Net rental returns of approximately 7% with high capital growth • Low outgoings compared to residential property • Low maintenance with minimal upkeep • High demand with low vacancy rates

Construction is well underway with completion due in April 2022. For further information, please contact Yal Kaya on 0421 664 666.

STAY + PLAY IN PENRITH

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WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS APRIL 2022

PROPERTY SHOWCASE WESTERN SYDNEY

Published in Western Sydney Business Access | Parramatta Times | Blacktown News | info@accessnews.com.au

Eradicating A property scourge

BEWARE the UNDERQUOTERS  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM E’VE all fallen for the scourge of real estate marketing, the dreaded price ‘underquoting’. You know the drill, you see an attractive house advertised in your preferred suburb and price range, only to find that it sells for hundreds of thousands of dollars above the quoted price. It can happen repeatedly, which makes you wonder why agents do it? Well, underquoting is a great way to get a list of all potential buyers in your area and how much they have to spend. And it also draws buyers to auctions, pleasing the vendors on auction day. Well, the NSW Government has had enough of this contentious form of marketing and a NSW Fair Trading team was formed in 2021 dedicated to proactively stamping out underquoting in the real estate industry. It has quickly swung into action, issuing 117 fines worth almost $200,000 during the past nine months, and in a first for NSW, imposed restrictions on serial ‘underquoters’. Minister for Small Business and Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said addressing the conduct of both the listing agent and licensee in charge helped the business comply with legislation and the expectations of consumers. “Understating the expected price of a property for sale by providing false estimated selling prices of the property completely wastes the time and money of potential homebuyers,” Ms Petinos said. “Underquoting will simply not be tolerated. We will continue to investigate and penalise where false prices are provided to consumers.

Round table being formulated “The rules are clear–agents must not understate the selling price in advertisements about a property for sale. They must be able to provide evidence on how they arrived at the estimated selling price and ensure the estimated price remains current. “While complaints for underquoting rose last year, so has action by the regulator. In 2021 Fair Trading received more than 320 complaints in relation to underquoting and issued penalty notices for around a quarter of them. The laws in place are working and being used appropriately when poor conduct can be proven.” Property Services Commissioner John Minns said he was working closely with industry and stakeholders to ensure a united

THE RULES ARE CLEAR

Agents must not understate the selling price in advertisements about a property for sale. They must be able to provide evidence on how they arrived at the estimated selling price and ensure the estimated price remains current.

approach to issues such as underquoting as the real estate market continued to experience growth. “COVID has not affected the property market, in fact the real estate industry has encountered record sale and income during COVID. Agents successfully worked within the requirements and have managed to achieve record sales,” he said. “Underquoting is not just a breach of the Property and Stock Agents Act, it is unprofessional and costs consumers time and money. All stakeholders agree an industry and regulator collaboration can achieve much to educate, communicate and enforce increased standards. “We are forming a roundtable to identify how we can improve outcomes for buyers and industry and this will include representatives from Fair Trading, the NSW Real Estate industry and buyers’ advocates.” Enforceable undertakings can be a beneficial option as consumers receive redress quickly and Fair Trading and the trader co-operate to reach a reasonable solution and prevent future non-compliance. This undertaking requires at least two licensed agents, or one licensed agent and

Minister for Small Business and Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos.

a certificate holder, to approve comparable pricing for every new property listed for sale. During the 12 months of 2021, Fair Trading received 329 enquiries and complaints related to underquoting. An assessment of the complaints identified 211 breaches of the Property and Stock Ants Act 2002. There were 114 penalty infringement notices issued valued at $248,800 and eight matters were referred for formal investigation. Agents suspected of underquoting should be reported by calling NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20.

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BUSINESS SURVEY

CHARITY SUPPORT

How Aussies are taking to the new plan: 2

Why finding staff is the biggest concern: 5

Our favourite charities in two years of COVID: 10

POWERHOUSE Parramatta CEO Lisa Havilah is more interested in the flood of excitement over the controversial $920M project than any flood-waters that may lap at its riverside approach. After the recent devastating rains that saw Parramatta River break its banks between the ferry wharf and the site of the museum, Ms Havilah is adamant that the building and its exhibits will not be affected.

LINES

FULL STORY PAGE 10

Here’s how business traditions will change

RETAIL BOUNCES BACK -T HE ecommerce craze shows no signs of abating with a new generation of young entrepreneurs

swapping traditional jobs for selling everything Фf^ ÌÓ æ â î î±Ë æ ® þ Ì î® îÓó©® æî ÓÌ EÓÿ â î ±Å âæ ® þ â þ Å î® æÓÅóî±ÓÌæ Ì from pet food to high end clothing online. They â Óâ ¨Óâ w æî âÌ ^ą Ì ąФæ У â± Âæ Ì ËÓâî âФ æóßßÓâî Ë æóâ æ Ì ¨Óâ î® ±Ì óæîâą ÓóÌ are part of the revolution which has seen a large proâ î ±Å ±Ì óæîâąϻ óî î®±æ æ îÓâ ® æ ßâÓó Â î®±æ ą â Ì ąÓÌ Ϻ portion of Aussies continue to earn a living from home, relocate out of cities and take precautions to reduce ®±æîÓâą Ó¨ ÓóÌ ±Ì© Â ¨âÓË î® ® â æî Ó¨ î±Ë æϺ FULL STORY PAGE 5 their risk of viral infections. There will be some blurring between what we wear to bed or lounge around in at

TALE OF TWO POOLS SAS CHALLENGE A Parramatta Olympian THIS EDITION

INSIDE

S Special ttribute tto local b business w winners

AUTO: SsangYong's mid-life update: 30 BUSINESS: Retailers reveal solutions: 34 TRENDS: Is love passing you by?: 36

home de and what we wear out. The forecasts come from si in Davie Fogarty, Founder and CEO of Davie Group, the

fast-growing company behind brands The Oodie, Calming Blankets and Pupnaps. More page 20.

World class health care

New suburb named BradÀeld

Govy ofÀcially names high tech city at Aerotropolis: 6

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

BEST GIFT SINCE THE OPERA HOUSE

BLURRED

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

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Family business in COVID

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

How hope really works

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

SALOVS: How hope really happens: 19

FTER a few hot summers rather than refurbish it. After a bit of for swimmers who æ óĖ îÿ Ì W ââ Ë îî ÓóÌ ±Å loved Parramatta and and the NSW Government on who w ÌîÿÓâî®þ±ÅÅ ßÓÓÅæ Ì æóđ â would pay for its replacement, an during their closures, relief is on the agreement was reached on funding way. Just a day apart, the refurbished for the state-of-the-art aquatic Wentworthville pool opened and centre. And in Wentworthville, a î® Ĝâæî æÓ ÿ æ îóâÌ ÓÌ î® concerted community campaign and ARRAMATTA’S four-time Olympian Melissa Wu has well and truly dived in the deep end as aParramatta contestant onAquatic the blockbuster SAS Show on Channel 7 andthe 7plus. spectacular theAustralia Cumberland Council, saved And the Olympic diver won’t diminutive stand in her way While as she Centre. Both communities havebe letting her beloved poolsize with an upgrade. takeswithout on a hot field of sporting andthe celebrity contestants the top rating program. After been a pool since 2017, Parramattainresidents wait two years all, she won four Commonwealth Games goldfor medals wasthey full ofare determination Parramatta Memorial Pool demolished theirand pool, welcome toin an peek of the 2022 season of SASdive Australia, which started on February 21 on toall-new makesneak way for Bankwest Stadium to Wenty. Channel 7 and 7plus. More page 6. and the previous Holroyd Council FULL STORY PAGE 6 wanting to close the tired Wenty pool

faces her toughest test

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ISSUE 12 MARCH 2022 LO|CA

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PROPERTY RTY UPDATEE

GAME TIME

MICHELLE ROWLAND

Inside the bank of mum and dad: 16

B Blacktown FC is ready to go: 31

How Afghan women typify our diversity: 18

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been in trouble with the law or those who may be headed that way. But the service was told at the end of last year by the Department of Communities and Justice that they had missed out on funding, in favour of more “targeted” youth

programs. A letter from the Minister for Families and Communities Gareth Ward suggested that the BYSA seeks funding from other government departments such as education and sport. FULL STORY 10

WELCOME to the Blacktown NEWS

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WINNERS FEATURE Absolute joy to see awards back

More nomination records broken  CHIANG LIM T was an absolute joy to see the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards for 2021/2022 held on a beautiful Saturday, March 26, 2022 at the Hyatt Regency at Sydney’s Darling Harbour. Not only were two more records broken as the Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA) NSW hosted almost 550 people in attendance as well as a 40.9% increase in the number of nominations received. I believe the fact that we had so many people together in one place after the experiences of the last two years of COVID-19 pandemic must have imbued even greater confidence as we look to our futures while living with COVID. ACA NSW is also extremely proud of the fact that these Awards continues to be open to all 3,357 long daycare services across NSW while being blind to sizes, brands, governance structures and locations. And it certainly will continue to not be limited to ACA NSW members either. This particularly guarantees that the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards remain the biggest and only awards program that is universal and impartial to Approved Providers, educators, teachers and support staff who work so tirelessly at their long daycare services. It may also just be the largest of its kind for the sector across Australia. This also makes the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards the most respected of all by parents and families as they discern between services and draw understandings of the extraordinary offerings of long daycare services for their precious children. What these annual Awards also provide is an opportunity to “peek” into what excellence tangibly looks like among the best of the best services. With an unashamed convergence toward beneficial outcomes for children and their families, all award categories provide every nomination the opportunity to highlight their successes for celebration. These Awards also provide inspiration from others to draw from so that all of us can strive even further and higher in our individual and collective aspirations. All finalists and winners of this year’s Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards must be extremely proud of their success and their services. And most importantly, we celebrate the many people who make all our long daycare services’ successes become realities for the children under their care and for their families. And we won’t even let a global pandemic impede us!

Chiang Lim is CEO, Australian Childcare Alliance NSW. Visit www. nsw.childcarealliance.org.au

HONOR ROLL: All 2021 WINNERS Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Annika Terry

The Rumpus Room - Darling Street, Broadmeadow

Children’s Wellbeing & Health Program Excellence

Bambini of Lilyfield

Community Involvement Program Excellence

Bridge St Kids Early Learning Centres

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Haylee Drieman

Environmental Program Excellence

Gumnut Kidz Kindergarten Narrabeen Children’s Centre

Excellence in Food & Menu Design

Sustainable Play Preschool

Excellence in Indoor Learning Environment

Bambini of Lilyfield

Excellence in Outdoor Learning Environment

Bambini of Lilyfield

Family Involvement Program Excellence

Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centres - Merrylands

Inclusivity Practices Program Excellence

Gilgandra Preschool

Large Community Service (40 places or more)

Hunter Valley Grammar School Early Learning Centre

Large Private Northern Metropolitan Service (40 places or more)

Little Zaks Academy - Epping 2

Large Private Regional Service (40 places or more)

The Rumpus Room - Pelican

Large Private Southern Metropolitan Service (40 places or more)

All Star Early Learners

Large Private Western Metropolitan Service (40 places or more) Male Educator Excellence Award

Oakville Preschool Learning Centre Alec Peters

Metropolitan Educational Program Excellence

Toybox Early Learning Bambini of Lilyfield

Metropolitan Educator Leader Excellence Award

Melissa Traversa

Mikids - Northern Beaches

Metropolitan Female Educator Excellence Award

Melinda Singleton

Little Zaks Academy - Epping 2

Metropolitan Program illustrating ‘My sustainable world’

JumpStart 4 Kids - Blacktown

Metropolitan Program illustrating ‘Stimulating children’s senses’

Starkingdom Childcare Centre & Kindergarten

Multicultural Program Excellence

Gilgandra Preschool

Program illustrating ‘Being a good sport’

Oakville Preschool Learning Centre

Program illustrating ‘Communication with children’

Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centres - Liverpool

Program illustrating ‘The confident child’

All Star Early Learners

Program illustrating ‘The creative child’

Innovative Early Learning - Artarmon

Program illustrating ‘We are all Australians’

Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centres - Merrylands

Regional Educational Program Excellence

Gilgandra Preschool

Regional Educator Leader Excellence Award

Sarah Bilton-Smith

Hunter Valley Grammar School Early Learning Centre

Regional Female Educator Excellence Award

Ashleigh Oldfield

Pied Piper Preschool

Regional Program illustrating ‘My sustainable world’

Kookaburra Early Learning Centre

Regional Program illustrating ‘Stimulating children’s senses’ Service Support Person Excellence Award

Little Treasures Preschool & Early Learning Centre Natarsha Stuart

Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centres

Small Private Metropolitan Service (39 places or less)

Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centres - Merrylands

Small Private Regional Service (39 places or less)

Developing Dreams Early Learning Centre - Chain Valley Bay

Team Excellence Award - Metropolitan Service

Oakville Preschool Learning Centre

Team Excellence Award - Regional Service

Gilgandra Preschool

Young Female Educator Excellence Award (25 years or less)

Xanthe Young

Explore & Develop Leichhardt

Young Male Educator Excellence Award (25 years of less)

Yifan Hu

Goodstart Early Learning - West Pymble

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Little Zak s Academy is a group of early learning centres across Sydney dedicated to providing children with avenues to reach their full potential. By focussing on a play-based learning approach, we can foster an environment wherein children are encouraged to develop academically, physically and socially through spontaneous and intentional learning! Our watchful educators are always on the lookout for opportunities to instil valuable learning concepts covering maths, language and science as your child discovers and explores on their own. Enhanced by an engaging and nurturing environment, we can foster in children a love of discovery, build on their natural curiosity and inspire a lifelong passion for learning at our daycare centres in Sydney! Little Zak's Academy works toward building healthy eating habits in our children. In order to do so. we prepare 5 meals a day on-site, using a rotational menu system. Our meals feature seasonal ingredients and help our children learn to make smart food choices by introducing 'always foods’ and 'sometimes foods.

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NEWS

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Gilgandra Preschool offers a play program with a strong emphasis on the natural environment for children 3 to 5 years. We are passionate about cultural identity, inclusiveness of all children and families and early identiﬁcation for increased outcomes with intervention supports.

Additional unique programs include: • Early Intervention Occupational Therapy and Speech/Language programs. • Bush Preschool program. • Breakfast program.

Phone: 0268-472-330 Mobile: 0439-772-330 Email: director@gilpreschool.com.au 18

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EECEAs

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Scenes from the gala awards event.

(02) 9810 7780 284 Balmain Road Lilyfield NSW 2040 www.bambinioflilyfield.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS APRIL 2022

EECEAs

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Scenes for the 2021 gala EECEA Awards night.

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EECEAs

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Bambini creating leaders of tomorrow

Bambini’s INSPIRE Curriculum and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is incorporated into all of Bambini’s learning environments. For more information visit: bambiniearlylearning.com.au/bambini-curriculum.

AMBINI of Lilyfield has a multicultural team of more than 20 educators, who are dedicated, highly-qualified and have broad experience. The early learning centre and preschool has been rated as exceeding the National Quality Standard. Its high standard of early childhood education was reinforced last September when it was named a finalist in 13 categories at the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards 2021. At the heart of everything Bambini of Lilyfield does is the goal of inspiring young minds. “We are firmly focused on your child’s learning and development,” Bambini of Lilyfield centre director, Anmol Lohia, says. “Through our Bambini INSPIRE Curriculum and our open-ended, collaborative and nurturing approach, we are with your child at every step of the way as trusted leaders in early childhood care and education.”

Children enjoy specially designed outdoor playscapes with many spaces to explore, including climbing equipment, a vegetable garden and an undercover area. Indoors, Bambini has state-of-the-art spaces that encourage children to learn and grow at their age and stage of development, including a dining room, an art atelier, with alternating music, yoga studio.

Bambini’s INSPIRE Curriculum Bambini Early Learning’s point of excellence includes a university qualified Early Childhood Teacher in every room and its highly-qualified and dedicated educators provide exceptional care and tailored programs to help engage young minds from six weeks to six years. Bambini has developed ‘The INSPIRE Curriculum’ which, along with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), is incorporated into each of its rooms. The Bambini INSPIRE Curriculum is based on the skills required for tomorrow–

Activities and programs at Bambini of Lilyfield are aimed at ‘inspiring young minds’ to create leaders of tomorrow.

to adapt, inquire, question and cooperate– life skills, innovative learning, inspiring and fun. At the INSPIRE Curriculum’s core is: AQ: Adaptability and Resilience–To inspire young minds, instilling adaptability and resilience is key. Bambini is not just about engaging play, it is committed to building leaders of tomorrow, by equipping your child with self-help skills, regardless of their stage in life. EQ: Emotional Wellbeing–Bambini is passionate about creating compassionate, caring and empathetic leaders who are equipped with strong emotional intelligence. As your child learns to interact with others, Bambini teaches them how to recognise complex emotions, deal with conflict, build healthy relationships and display empathy. SQ: Social and Community–SQ and EQ are skills that help children to work out challenges and respond to situations successfully. These cannot be measured in any

kind of IQ tests but are of great importance in navigating life successfully. The ability to manage yourself has become the new measure of assessing competence in the 21st century. IQ: School Readiness–Starting school is an important milestone in your child’s life, and at Bambini Early Learning, strong foundations are created for learning in school and beyond. Bambini provides building blocks to help prepare your child for school the minute they walk in the door, with its holistic ‘School Readiness’ program. With unlimited street parking, families are ensured a safe and efficient drop off and pick up every visit. There is also a nearby bus stop and light rail connections, providing further transport options to the city and surrounding suburbs. Bambini of Lilyfield is located at 284 Balmain Road, Lilyfield. For all enquiries call 9810 7780 or for more information visit bambiniearlylearning.com.au

Activities at Morisset Early Education Centre.

Positive learning through partnerships ORISSET Early Education Centre (MEEC) believes in providing an environment where all educators work in partnership with families and the wider community to provide positive and holistic learning in line with the Early Years Learning Framework. It has been educating children six weeks to six years old in the local community for 38 years and strives to support a sense of belonging that will enhance the children’s overall development. Centre Manager, Rebecca Buckley– affectionately known to preschoolers as ‘Miss Bec–said the early childhood education and care sector faced considerable staffing challenges during the pandemic, but MEEC had emerged more resilient. “We believe all children are competent, resourceful individuals who are capable of

directing their own learning,” she said. “The whole child, including the mind, body and spirit, is nurtured and valued at Morisset Early Education Centre. “We support and encourage each child to relate positively to the people around them, improving their own sense of well-being and being respectful of others.” MEEC comprises two separate learning environments–the ‘Starfish Room’, accommodating eight children aged 0–3 years; and the ‘Seahorse Room’, an exciting, engaging environment for children 3–5 years old. The Starfish Room program is designed to enhance your child’s social and emotional development through experiences which include yoga, meditation, visual arts, literacy and numeracy, music and exploring the outdoor environment through a play-based program.

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The Seahorse Room aims to enhance your child’s social and emotional development through experiences such as yoga and meditation; group participation and contributions. Academic knowledge such as numbers, letters and pre-writing skills is also introduced through play-based learning while the program also aims to foster independence and self-responsibility. Activities for both groups aim to build on a child’s self-help skills and they participate in regular excursions to the local library, local shops, schools, ovals and Bush Kindy. The National Quality Standards, United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Early Years Learning Framework and the Children’s Services Regulations are all embedded in MEEC’s everyday practices.

“Amazing little centre that puts the children and families first,” says parent, Jessica Bayliss, a in a recent online review. “When we initially looked at sending our child there, the minute we walked in we felt at ease and knew this was the right place for our little family. “It is always a warm and nurturing environment and the teachers all know your child and have a personal connection with them.” She said the Centre offered great early education program balanced with fun activities. MEEC is almost at capacity, but ‘Miss Bec’ says there are still a few places remaining in its Seahorse Room. For more information, call (02) 4973 3244 or visit morissetearlyeducationcentre.com.au

EECEAs

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NEWS

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WSABE 2022

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Entries open for WSABE 2022 HE 2022 Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence Showcase Launch officially marked the commencement of the 2022 WSABE Campaign, with Award Entries open, and honoured our prized WSABE Alumni on April 1 at Holiday Inn Warwick Farm. On behalf of the WSABE Committee and our sponsor host the Commonwealth Bank, The Parramatta Chamber

of Commerce thanked all WSABE patrons for their support over the years. The WSABE Showcase provided a networking opportunity to share business success stories of WSABE Finalists & Winners from across the Greater Western Sydney region. “Thank you to our speakers the @DrGeoff Lee MP, Member for Parramatta, Josh Foster, General Manager, Business Banking NSW, Commonwealth Bank and 2021

WSABE Alumni for Commonwealth Bank Business of the Year Tony Nash CEO Booktopia, for providing key insights across the program,” said Parramatta Chamber President Luke Magee. Entries to the 2022 WSABE are now open, please visit https://wsabe.com.au/enter-now/ to enter. The Parramatta Times and Western Sydney Business Access are media support partners for WSABE.

Scenes from the launch of WSABE 2022.

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WSABE 2022

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MOVING HOME OR OFFICE?

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AUTO

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Gaydon’s final twelve-cylinder Vantage a sell-out success with all 333 units presold  MATT BROGAN STON MARTIN has announced details of its last ever twin-turbocharged V12-powered Vantage. The Gaydon-based marque will produce only 333 examples of the specially honed variant. With outputs of 515kW at 6500rpm and 753Nm between 1800-6000rpm from its 5.2-litre mill, the final V12 Vantage is the most powerful yet; it is said to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds and go on to a top speed of 320km/h. The engine is paired exclusively to an eight-speed ZFsourced automatic transmission driving the rear wheels via a mechanical limited-slip diff. Aston Martin says it has worked to deliver “utmost performance and unmatched enjoyment” from its wide-body (+40mm) model, of which the order book is already closed. Since the model’s confirmation in December 2021, there has been unprecedented demand for its “future icon” and an “oversubscribed register of interest waiting in the wings”. The use of carbon-fibre in the front bumper, bonnet, front guards and side sills, a lightweight battery as well as a composite rear bumper and boot lid, trim the V12-engined Vantage’s kerb weight, while the tuned stainless-steel exhaust is said to emit a soulful soundtrack. For optimal dynamism, in addition to a wider wheel track, the V12 Vantage is equipped with a newly calibrated adaptive damping system, larger anti-roll bars, firmer bushes, and uprated springs and dampers. AM says the model’s spring rates are firmer

(50 per cent up front and 40 per cent at the rear), combined with top-mount stiffness increasing by 13 per cent and anti-roll bars that are five per cent stiffer at the front and a staggering 41 per softer at the rear.

Changes support steering setup Additional front and rear sheer panels, a rear suspension tower strut brace and fuel-tank bracing increase body stiffness by eight per cent and lateral stiffness by 6.7 per cent. The changes are supported by a recalibrated steering setup and stopping power courtesy of 410mm carbon ceramic rotors (with six-piston calipers) up front and 360mm discs with four-piston clamps (at the rear). The final V12 Vantage is available with a choice of two 21-inch alloy wheel designs shod with Michelin Pilot 4S rubber. To improve cooling, the front grille of the V12 Vantage is 25 per cent larger than before. It is complemented by a horseshoe shaped vent set into the bonnet, and a unique diffuser built into the rear bumper. The rear wing contributes to a maximum downforce pressure of 204kg at top speed, though this can be deleted from the build sheet if it is not to the customer’s taste. The interior of the V12 Vantage is unchanged from the that of the model it’s based upon, apart for the inclusion of Aston Martin’s Sport Plus Seats trimmed in semi-aniline leather with Wings quilt and perforation pattern. Six-way adjustable exposed carbon-fibre performance seats, which further reduce the vehicle’s overall weight are optional.

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“Every great sportscar brand has a hero car. For Aston Martin, in more recent years, that car has been the V12 Vantage. Right from the moment the first V12 Vantage RS Concept was shown back in 2007, our customers and fans around the world fell in love with the idea of fitting our biggest engine into our smallest and most sporting model,” said Aston Martin CEO Tobias Moers. “The recipe has been refined over the years with great success, but the essence has remained the same. Now it is time to bring this bloodline to a close, fittingly with the

most spectacular example yet – the fastest, most powerful and most dynamically capable V12 Vantage ever. “A celebration of its forebears and an embodiment of Aston Martin’s intensifying focus on driving dynamics, it ensures the V12 Vantage goes out on the highest of highs,” he added. Production of the V12 is due to commence in Q1 of 2022, with first deliveries scheduled to begin shortly. The next-generation Vantage, which is slated for arrival in 2025, will be purely electric.

FILMS with Jacob Richardson

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THE LOST CITY – 4 STARS

DVENTURE returns to the big screen in The Lost City; a hilariously enjoyable, rom-com adventure hybrid full of snarky laughs and bigname cameos. Loretta (Sandra Bullock) is a romance novelist, whose enthusiasm for the craft has substantially dimmed since her husband passed away. Now, as she released her latest novel, she finds herself keen to hang up the pen. Her cover model, Alan (Channing Tatum)–or Dash, the character’s name he is known by for the fans who come to see him–hates this idea, because his life has blossomed through his association with the famous series. Amidst a dramatic book tour, with the two at one another’s throats, Abigail Fairfax (Daniel Radcliffe) kidnaps Loretta. He believes that Loretta has translated the hidden text to find an ancient treasure in The Lost City of D, one of the main settings of her latest novel. Alan believes he is the man to track her down and save her–albeit with the help of one Jack Trainer (Brad Pitt), former special ops. The Lost City requires a certain suspension of disbelief off the bat, mainly for the idea that society in any sense would immortalize a cover model in the way that this film does Dash. Despite this, once you do settle in and let those gripes go, you find yourself having a lot of fun with this piece. Principally, that’s down to the zinging banter between the two leads. Bullock, who has proven time and time again her comedic chops, once again cements herself as one of the best actors in Hollywood. She’s funny, believably actionable, and witty.

She carries the romance well, and even looks fantastic in a pink sequin jumpsuit in the middle of the jungle. She is ably assisted by Tatum, who slots easily into one of his three typical roles (here playing the 21 Jump Street sort of persona). Together, the one-liners fly thick and fast, the jungle seems a conquerable place, and the whole film is given a certain joie de vivre.

The rest of the cast performs well also, with Radcliffe hamming it up as the villain of the piece, and Brad Pitt stealing the show with his brief appearance. From a plot perspective, this is well trodden ground; we’re not discovering any hidden gems in this screenplay. But for fans of Indiana Jones and the like, it will feel new enough, yet familiar enough, to go down very smoothly.

There’s a bit of action, a bit of drama and a bit of romance, without the hand on any one of those being played too heavily. The Lost City is, ultimately, a very well balanced, fast pace and zippy beast, and you’ll appreciate that levity throughout. Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

MORBIUS – 2 STARS UDDLED, with flashes of brilliance, but an overall sense of ‘why?’, Morbius is a film that isn’t so much bad or good, as confusing. Dr Michael Morbius ( Jared Leto) is a brilliant scientist, lauded for his work creating fake blood that can substitute for blood donations. But he hasn’t been able to crack the case he is most interested in solving; that of his own debilitating illness. Both he and his best friend Milo (Matt Smith) are afflicted with a disease that shortens their lifespan and necessitates blood transfusions multiple times throughout the day. Morbius is indefatigable, however, in his search for a cure; so much so in fact that he enlists the help of his faithful colleague Dr Martine Bancroft (Adria Anjona). Their efforts to cure his disease in international waters instead result in his acquisition of a form of vampirism–one that leads him to crave blood, gives him super strength, and a host of other superpowers. As dead bodies start piling up, however, Morbius has to face the fact that his best friend might not have used the cure to the best ends, and that he may be the only one who can stop him.

Morbius is a strange beast. Much like the titular character himself, who can leap in fits and bursts of disembodied black tendril-like energy, the film lurches forward with rapidity before slamming to a halt almost at random. We’re given the occasional deep introspection, and then thrown bodily into a

CGI vampire fight that doesn’t make much sense. The start is unexpected and out of place; the end, when it comes, is sudden and rapid; the sequel set-up almost an afterthought, as if the creative team felt they had to do it, but didn’t really believe it would ever come to fruition. Indeed, much of the film has this sort

of lacklustre feeling as if it had to be made, but no one really believed in it. It’s like someone held a gun to the head of the entire creative team behind the picture, and made them create a generic CGI-heavy superhero origin story. Everyone is going through the motions, but with the atmosphere of a ISIS-hostage video. The CGI is the real killer of this piece. A lot of work has evidently gone into the facial transitions between normal human and vampire, and the switching between the two is occasionally well done, but the vampiric faces are just too much, too cartoony and destroy any sense of believability. All that being said, Matt Smith has a ball in a role that calls for him to dance around half naked and wear a tie that matches the pattern of his shirt, and Jared Leto finds quiet moments of introspection to showcase his mammoth acting chops in yet another film that doesn’t deserve him. Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

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TRAVEL

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Back to life on a deck chair

We’re all CRUISING again  GROUP TRAVEL EDITOR | DALLAS SHERRINGHAM T’Ss time to dust off the passport and find the snorkel and flippers as cruise ships return to Sydney in late May ending a two year absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent Federal Government ban. It follows months of crusading by struggling travel agents, cruise line groups and cruise passengers as well as onshore businesses which depend on the $5bn cruise industry to survive. Now it’s all water under the Sydney Harbor Bridge with P&Os popular Pacific Explorer set to depart Sydney late on the afternoon of May 31. It will signal ‘business as normal’ for the industry which hosts more than one million Australians who enjoy life on a deckchair each year. However life will be slightly different for passengers with strict protocols for COVID-19 including mandatory vaccinations, negative COVID tests prior to boarding, testing on board and masks being worn when in public areas. And not every cruise line is rushing back to Australia for several reasons including the possibility of an instant lockdown if cases are recorded on ships. Basing a cruise ship in Sydney costs tens of millions and many cruise lines wont risk cruising being shut down again on the whim of a Government Department or a Minister who has no idea about the industry. Bargains can be found across most cruise lines as they battle to fill ships in the remainder of 2022 and into 2023. It’s just a matter of being vigilant and striking when you see a good fare advertised. Always book with a reputable travel agent or online service,

ACCESS decided to do a roundup of major cruise lines and their Australian return: P&O Cruises P&O Australia acted quickly after the announcement, moving sailings forward to May 31, when Pacific Explorer will sail from Sydney on a four-night roundtrip to Brisbane, before beginning a series of itineraries to Queensland and the South Pacific. Pacific Adventure will be in Sydney from October 22, sailing to Adelaide for the first of four cruises.

Princess Cruises Princess announced that Coral Princess would return to service early, arriving in Australia in June, running roundtrip Brisbane itineraries from three to 12 days long, across destinations in Queensland and NSW. In August, Coral Princess will be based in Sydney, departing on a new 12-day voyage through Queensland and the Conflict Islands in Papua New Guinea, before starting her previously announced Australia and New Zealand program for 2022/2023.

Carnival Cruises Carnival Cruises will start cruising out of Australia from October, with a range of itineraries scheduled out of Sydney, however, there are currently no cruises scheduled out of Brisbane.

Royal Caribbean A Royal Caribbean spokesperson said sailings would not be brought forward and would start from October 21 with a full 2022-2023 Australian summer season from Sydney. Cruises from Brisbane start in November. Itineraries will feature local Australian highlights of both the NSW and Queensland coast as well as New Zealand and South Pacific sailings.

Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit is set to arrive in December this year.

Ponant Ponant will be back in Australia from April 28 with Darwin as its home port, cruising the Kimberley. During Summer 2022/23 one of its ships will visit sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand as well as Australia’s Macquarie Island, together with Antarctica, the Ross Sea and Dunedin. The other vessel will be in Melanesia, then on the east coast of Australia with a focus on Tasmania.

Viking Viking will have two of its ocean ships in local waters for the 2022-2023 Australia and New Zealand cruise season to round out the year. Viking Orion will return to her seasonal Sydney and Auckland home ports between November and March 2023, while Viking Mars arrives in Sydney in December.

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Celebrity Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Celebrity Cruises confirmed they won’t be returning to Australia ahead of schedule with Celebrity Eclipse here from October through to April 2023, visiting Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Regent Seven Seas will return to Sydney and Australia in December, cruising for 14-nights to Auckland and then from Sydney to Bali for 18-nights from January 26, 2023.

Oceania Cruises

Silversea

Oceania Cruises will be cruising from Sydney to Bali from December on a 14 day cruise to Bali on Regatta, with another cruise from Sydney to Auckland for 14 days leaving in January 2023.

Silver Whisper and Silver Muse will come to Australia in December for a 2022/23 classic season. All sailings include New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region.

CROSSWORDS/GAMES

Solutions page 23

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CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Research rooms 5. North African expanse 11. Similar type 14. Nitrogenous waste 15. Readied 16. Date or age beginning 17. Driver's ___ 18. Blow to pieces 20. Bowler, but not golfer 21. Fox chaser? 22. Orbital extreme 23. Not so cordial 25. Tot tenders 26. They're twirled in parades 28. Rome septet 29. Take effect, in legalspeak 30. Island of entertainment 31. So ___ 34. Emulated Lady Godiva 35. Less firm, maybe 36. Add a kick to 37. Common tip jar bill 38. Moisten, poetically 39. Pulverize 40. Repaired a shoe 41. Moves unobtrusively 42. Worldly, not spiritual 45. "Haystacks" artist 46. Collar, for cops 47. Whim 48. Small handful 51. Call girl 53. Bridges of film 54. Tiny particle 55. Ducks 56. Caveat to a buyer 57. Lacking liquid 58. Colt's sound

59. Bank adjuncts DOWN 1. Opulent 2. Grounds 3. Exalted happiness 4. Created a lap 5. Future ferns 6. Pergola 7. Saber handle 8. Bud in Burgundy 9. Shopkeeper 10. With skill 11. Celebrity's concern 12. Not as timely 13. A couple of big joints 19. Languishes 21. One of a trident trio 24. Compost heap discard 25. Connective tissue 26. Ball point pen inventor 27. In a moment 28. Was optimistic 30. Sweet or hard beverage 31. Most flawed 32. Cause of some scars 33. Lipstick hues 35. Family tree entry 36. Metal deposit 38. Prop up 39. Color for the tickled 40. Files litigation 41. Hurting the most 42. Flavorsome 43. Trial associate? 44. Close pal 45. Agrippina, to Nero 47. Form of pachisi 49. Injure badly 50. Cat in boots 52. Astaire specialty 53. Bucolic cry

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HOSPITALITY

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Hospitality’s big challenge

Social distancing the new stressor  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM OSPITALITY has become one of the hot career prospects as Australia returns to normal, but the challenge of providing good service while social distancing is the ‘new stress’ for employees. The tourism and hospitality industry was ironically the hardest hit of all industries at the height of the pandemic and many workers have never returned to their jobs, while others have returned to their previous employment, but with challenging restrictions. As a result the industry is struggling to fill positions and plenty of jobs are available. At the start of 2022, there was a shortfall of 100,000 casual workers. Australia lost 375,000 migrant workers by 2021 and Ernst and Young predicts there will be a shortfall of 830,000 workers by 2024, with many of the positions in hospitality. Part of the problem is the challenge of social distancing requirements which are making an already difficult job a real pain. New research from the University of South Australia shows that even with an end to lockdowns, social distancing requirements are adding to the stress and difficulty faced by many people working in service roles. The Journal of Service Theory and Practice report, shows the challenges of adhering to social distancing requirements and concerns about potential consequences of not doing so are taking a heavy mental toll on many hospitality workers, eroding job satisfaction and increasing intention to leave the industry.

High physical proximity Lead author Dr Frank Huo from UniSA’s Centre for Workplace Excellence said many hospitality workers faced great difficulty in balancing “COVID-safe” with “good service”, leading to disillusionment and dissatisfaction with their roles. “The high physical-proximity nature of service industry jobs makes it difficult to practice social distancing at work, which jeopardises employees’ work engagement and career-related attitudes,” Dr Huo said. “Work engagement, including taking pride and pleasure in your job and seeing future career prospects in the role, is a key factor in employee wellbeing so situations that reduce work engagement can lead to negative vocational experiences, including career regret and turnover intention.” While recognising the importance of social distancing measures in reducing the

spread of COVID-19, Dr Huo said there was a need for greater understanding of their impact on service employees and greater recognition of the ways in which employers and customers could help reduce that impact. “In order to maintain service employees’ engagement and their positive career attitudes, managers may endeavor to

reduce work demands incurred by social distancing difficulties,” Dr Huo said. “Example strategies include limiting the number of patrons, implementing contactless payment and delivery systems and providing employees with personal protective equipment. “Furthermore, it is helpful to encourage customers’ co-production behaviors in ser-

vice delivery so that they can help restaurant workers to practice social distancing during service. “Emphasising the necessity and benefits of social distancing rules helps enhance employees’ acceptance of regulations, thereby reducing their perceived threat of social distancing difficulty,” Dr Huo said.

Local entertainment Watch locally made films. Stay up to date on infrastructure. Watch profiles of regional leaders. www.netwerx.tv WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS APRIL 2022

GAMES SOLUTIONS

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TRENDS

Top five trends for 2022

Coffee drinkers going natural

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM OFFEE drinkers are universally ‘going natural’ in 2022 but also re-embracing quality instant coffee according to a new report. The report by webrestaurantstore. com found coffee connoisseurs -that’s you and I–are cutting coffee drinks laden with artificial colors, sugar and cow’s milk in favor of simple and ethically sourced coffee and tea beverages enriched with plant-based ingredients. “When people choose to visit a coffee shop in 2022, they will make up for the lost time by staying longer and ordering more,” the report said. “However, quarantines cemented the importance of off-premise business models. Many of today’s coffee and tea consumers drink their beverages at home or on the go, so businesses should diversify their e-commerce and takeaway options.” It seems quality and convenience are the driving forces behind the top coffee trends of 2022. The average person consumes two cups of coffee a day. They are making at least one of those two cups at home and many want fast options they can grab on the go for cup number two. “However, people aren’t willing to sacrifice sustainable sourcing and flavor. The coffee market must provide options that taste great, are easy to whip together and are healthful for patrons’ bodies and the planet.” The five coffee trends of 2022 are:

1. Instant Coffee Once upon a time, coffee pods were the answer to fast and convenient homemade coffee. However, when Dalgona style coffee recipes overtook the popular social media app TikTok during COVID-19 quarantines, the focus shifted on to instant coffee. Fast forward to 2022, and people are using various forms of instant coffee as environmentally responsible coffee pod replacements. RTD (ready to drink) cans of coffee and coffee powders will be the hottest coffee trends of 2022.

2. Locally Roasted Coffee People are looking for a premium experience when they visit a coffee shop and that starts with freshly roasted beans. Raw coffee beans are green-hued and grassy tasting. Coffee roasting is heating and browning

coffee beans to bring out their aroma and flavor. Once they’re roasted, coffee beans lose their freshness. The sooner you grind and brew your roasted coffee beans, the better.

and only offered unimaginative basics like French vanilla. Today, craft roasters use premium beans to create fanciful flavors such as bananas foster, pistachio gelato, and bourbon pecan.

3. Flavored Coffee Beans

4. Single Origin Coffee

Flavored coffee beans are on the rise in 2022. Given the health crisis we’ve suffered through the past two years, people want to safeguard their well-being by improving their diet. However, amending dietary habits can frustrate coffee drink lovers. How can they enjoy the beloved flavor of a pumpkin spice latte without the sugar and artificial coloring? Enter flavored coffee beans. Roasteries add flavoring oils to their coffee beans to mimic nuts, spices and fruits without the sugar. In the past, companies used flavorings to mask substandard beans

Single origin coffee, also known as single source coffee, is harvested from a single crop, country, or region and carries the unique flavor notes of its origins. Today’s coffee consumer cares about ethical procurement, unique flavor experiences, coffee tourism and sustainability. Tracing beans back to their grower allows you to confirm that they are fair trade, sustainable, and organic. Single origin coffee beans cost more than coffee blends, but their retail value is far greater. Coffee drinkers will pay 200% more for roasts with a clear origin country.

5. Snapchilled Coffee As its name suggests, snapchilling takes coffee from piping hot to icy cold in a matter of minutes. Think of snapchillers as tabletop, instant blast chillers for liquids. Operators set the snapchill machine to the cold temperature that best suits their roast, add water and it will brew and chill the coffee to the prescribed temperature in 60-seconds. The advent of snapchill technology presents a welcome alternative to iced coffee and cold brewing. Pouring coffee over ice dilutes its flavor and chilling coffee in the fridge oxidizes the beans. While cold-brewed coffee avoids these foibles, cold water does a poor job of extracting the coffee beans full flavor and it takes a long time to make. Brewing coffee with hot water and immediately chilling it preserves its flavor and saves time.

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS ACCESS APRIL 2022

Access News Australia - April 2022

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