KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH THE COMMUNITY
22 JULY 2015 6 October 2011
INDEPENDENT FORTNIGHTLY COMMUNITY NEWS
VOLUME 10 No.2
POPULATION Rowers Rule EXPLOSION the FORECAST
WIN A FREE PASS Sydney Dog Lovers Show 2
www.burwoodscene.com.au
NEWS
NEWS
3
6 October 2011
RIVER
Pages 6-7
Page 5
Page 15
TUNNEL ANXIETY Croydon residents are only just becoming aware that the M4 East tunnel that they thought was going under Parramatta Road has been moved approximately 200 metres west in preliminary designs released on June 4. by Belinda Noonan
STRATHFIELD MP Jodi McKay and Burwood Councillor Lesley Furneaux-Cook held a street meeting at Croydon’s Centenary Park last Saturday to hear the distressed residents’ concerns. Seven WestConnex representatives, including the Project Manager, also attended to hear and answer questions. Tarja Shephard, who lives in Croydon, owns one of the 500 homes affected, many of which are classic Federation heritage-style houses. “At the earlier WestConnex public information sessions, the public were informed that the tunnel would be underneath Parramatta Road,” she said. “That’s what the map showed and Minister Duncan Gay stated in media releases that the tunnels would run under the existing Parramatta Road.” “I am horrified and shocked and suspect that many residents don’t realise what is going to happen underneath their homes,” Ms Shepherd said. “I was told last week that there will be noise and vibration for 21 days and nights through each property during construction. And that explosives would be used.” A detailed map, more resident reaction and comments from WestConnex on page 3.
Croydon residents Colin and Cecily Gray (left) with Tarja Shephard.
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2
NEWS
22 July 2015
DESK
T
HE image of trade unions has taken a beating in recent weeks. There’s the not inconsiderable matter of the current Royal Commission into trade unions that has heard, amongst other things, the need for Opposition Leader Bill Shorten to ‘update’ his 2007 election campaign disclosure documents that omitted a $40,000 donation and verbal agreements with labour hire companies. The list goes on and on as Labor claims the Royal Commission is a Liberal-led witch hunt. That may be so, but how else would any of these shenanigans come to light?
By Belinda Noonan
UNION SHENANIGANS How the unions operate is very ‘complex’ we’ve heard from the hearings and that the ‘context’ of any particular issue needs to be considered. What we know for certain is that a lot of lawyers are making good money and so, it would seem, are the unions.
Late last month the powerful trade union CFMEU (Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union) was condemned by Federal Member for Reid, Craig Laundy MP for running a “xenophobic fear mongering” campaign in his electorate.
On a Thursday evening, around dinner time, (June 23), many homes in the Reid electorate and other marginal federal seats such as Corangamite, Hasluck and Capricornia received an automated call from the CFMEU claiming that the recently signed China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) could cost Australian jobs and see an influx of Chinese workers. The Free Trade Agreement with China allows a Chinese business that invests more than $150million into a project in Australia, to bring some of their workers here under specific visa conditions and regulations. As soon as the robo calls began Laundy’s Burwood office
started receiving calls from angry residents who objected. The stream of messages escalated the next day with many complaining that they are on the Do Not Call Register. What was the CFMEU doing? National CFMEU Secretary Michael O’Connor confirmed that they had commissioned ReachTel to do the robo-call across seven federal seats. The thrust of the calls he said was to “point out” that under current law for temporary visas such as the 457, an employer has to advertise and that any tradesperson from outside Australia would have to meet an Australian skills assessment. Mr O’Connor maintains that under the CHAFTA, some
of those requirements are removed from various categories. “It looks like CHAFTA deregulates temporary workers visas,” he said. The Do Not Call Register is an interesting can of worms because unions, among other entities such as registered charities, are exempt from the register. And in a happy little coincidence so are registered political parties. The Register is managed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority. Telemarketers and fax marketers are required by law to stop contacting you once you’re on the register.
We welcome your Letter to the Editor, which must be supplied with your name, address and telephone number for verification purposes. The publisher takes no responsibility for views expressed in any Letter to the Editor.
INSIDE
RIVENDELL OPEN DAY
JUST SAYIN’ @ SCHOOL STRATHFIELD SPORT
Page 6 Pages 8-9 Page 11 Page 15
Rivendell on the Yaralla Estate in Concord West.
An independent fortnightly community newspaper. 100% family owned and operated. PUBLISHED BY SCENE NEWSPAPERS NEXT ISSUE: Wednesday 5 August 2015 DEADLINE: Wednesday 29 July 2015 Advertising: ads@burwoodscene.com.au Phone: 9715 2700 Fax: 9715 2007 Editorial: editor@burwoodscene.com.au Phone: 9715 2700 Fax: 9715 2007 Post: PO Box A187, Enfield South, NSW 2133 Editor: Belinda Noonan Deputy Editor: Mitchell Jordan mitchell@scenenewspapers.com.au Journalists: Sami Jeong saimi@burwoodscene.com.au Paul Brown paul@burwoodscene.com.au Accounts: Aileen Soria aileens@scenenewspapers.com.au Art Director: Kevin Robinson Sales Director: Robin Eggleton Printed by: Rural Press Burwood Scene is a registered trademark. All material appearing in this newspaper is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without the consent of the copyright holder. Delivered across four municipalities: Burwood, Strathfield, Canada Bay and Ashfield.
THE City of Canada Bay Heritage Society will host its annual Rivendell Open Day on Sunday, July 26 from 9.30am until 2pm at Rivendell with a tour through this magnificent and historic building. On his death in 1886 Thomas Walker left a legacy of £100,00 to build a convalescent hospital on 13 hectares of his land to the west of his Yaralla Estate, behind where Concord Hospital now stands. The Concord West premises designed by Sir John Sulman and built in the early 1890s in the Federation Free Classical Style, was originally known as The Thomas Walker Hospital. The Open Day tour also takes in the outbuildings, plus there are discussions
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on the history of the Walkers, Yaralla and the Hospital. One of the most famous patients was Henry Lawson, who wrote the “Unknown Patient” while convalescing there. From 2009 Rivendell has been a 20-bed facility connected to the University of NSW offering mental health services for children and adolescents on an inpatient and outpatient basis, with around 500 children and their families helped each year. Cost of the tour is $15 for adults, concession $10, and children are free. Bookings are essential by calling Lois (after July 1) on 9744 8528.
NEWS
22 July 2015
3
M4 East tunnels will go under 500 homes SCO TT S TRE ET
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ASHFIELD The preferred design of the M4 East tunnel.
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PAR RAM ATTA
STREET DALMAR
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Aerial view of homes potentially affected by the preferred M4 East tunnel. by Belinda Noonan
CROYDON, Ashfield and Burwood residents will be affected after the preferred design for the M4 East tunnels released by the WestConnex Delivery Authority on June 4 shows an altered route about 200 metres further west from the November 2013 preliminary concept design. Approximately 500 homes will be above the six-lane twin 5.3 metre high M4 East tunnels that would be built to a depth of between 27 to 50 metres. Shocked residents are scrambling to find out more information. “I found out through neighbours,” said Hammond Avenue resident Sandro Ottaviano. “I’ve had absolutely nothing in my letterbox but I did call the WestConnex information line. They were elusive and not very forthcoming when I asked which houses would be affected. I called three times in late June and it took up to four days for them to get back to me.” Many residents are frustrated that the maps available on the WestConnex website or
delivered into letterboxes are difficult to read. “We haven’t been informed other than a general flyer that arrived in our letterbox with a very bad map,” said Australia Street resident Dora Makaritis, who has been doorknocking her area to let neighbours know. “At the information session at Ashfield last Monday, the experts said it wasn’t definite that the tunnel would go under our house, then the next day we had a phone call saying it is definite.” “We also asked the tunnelling expert from Leighton about the Lane Cove tunnel and how it had collapsed. We were told that it can’t be guaranteed that won’t happen again and that ‘these things do happen’. ” “We don’t fe el ver y comfortable or safe,” Dora said. The common thread being heard from residents is a lack of information and shock that the tunnels have been moved from underneath Parramatta Road and will now go under homes in Ashfield, Croydon and Burwood. At the street meeting on Saturday, WestConnex Project Manager Terry Chapman and other representatives said that
the preferred design was in a straighter line and a better alignment for the second Harbour Tunnel crossing, which would reduce cost. “This tunnel will be built to the highest standards,” Mr Chapman told residents. He also revealed that none of the three tenders submitted a route that travelled directly under Parramatta Road. As a result, the M4 East tunnel travels south of Parramatta Road before heading north-east to connect to the Stage 3 tunnel. “Road tunnels generally have straighter alignments than existing surface roads due to the inherent engineering efficiencies and the nature of the equipment used,” a WestConnex spokesperson told Burwood Scene. “The preferred design takes into account the NSW Government’s commitment to a second harbour road crossing and the associated change in alignment of stage three to accommodate the connection at Rozelle.” The M4 East Environmental Impact Study (EIS) is currently being prepared and will go on
Strathfield MP Jodi McKay and Cr Lesley Furneaux-Cook with residents at Centenary Park.
display for community feedback in the coming months. The EIS will include specific details of the preferred route, heritage, noise, vibration, and the management of other construction and operational impacts. “Structural or cosmetic property damage as a result of the project’s construction is extremely unlikely, however, properties within 50 metres from the outer edge of each tunnel would be offered an independent precondition survey to establish a record of property conditions before construction starts,” the spokesperson advised. “A post-condition survey will also be completed and any damage attributed to the project will be repaired at no cost to the owner.”
The Authority says that a submissions report will be prepared to address community feedback. Both the EIS and submissions report will be assessed by the Department of Planning and Environment as part of the planning approval process. Wh e re i n f r a s t r u c tu re is required to be built underground, the government may seek to acquire land below the surface of the ground, which is known as subsurface acquisition. “ T h is is a c om mon occurrence for any road or rail tunnel. Where this is required, property owners will be contacted in writing by Roads and Maritime Services. This process will start in the coming months,” said the WestConnex spokesperson.
New land titles would be issued to homes affected. Councillor Lesley Furneaux-Cook is submitting a motion at the next Burwood Council meeting to look at how council can help residents obtain more detailed information. Hammond Avenue residents of 33 years, Colin and Cecily Gray say the tunnel project is double trouble. “There will be a tunnel under the back of our house and we want to know if all that drilling will affect the foundations. There’s also the Urban Growth development on Parramatta Road. It’s a double whammy,” Cecily said. “It’s been a smokescreen the whole time,” Colin Gray said. “A minimum of information for as long as they can.”
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22 July 2015
M AY O R ’ S M E S S A G E
FROM BURWOOD COUNCIL
Mayor’s Message
Follow me on Twitter: @johnfaker
T
HE new financial year has arrived and we continue to build on our strong momentum from 2014-15 with a range of exciting projects and initiatives underway.
The Burwood Park Café is now open and serving warm coffee near the Memorial Arch, new planter boxes are being installed across our town centres and works are being undertaken at Stanley Street Reserve to provide more open space for our residents. In addition to undertaking new projects, we remain committed to our capital
works program with the upgrading and renewal of our local infrastructure including roads, footpaths, kerbs and gutters. Next month we will gather in Burwood Park for our annual Sandakan Remembrance Service, in recognition of the Australians held in Prisoner of War camps in Borneo during World War II. I encourage you to attend our service on Sunday, 2 August at 11am in Burwood Park to help pay our respects to those brave Australians who never returned home from service.
Remembering Sandakan
T
HE warm sun, the smell of roses, the sound of native birds and a warm cuppa in hand. Sounds relaxing? Why not pop past the newly opened Burwood Park Café and experience it for yourself. The new café will be operating Mondays to Fridays, and weekends during the summer months.
Fit for the Future:
B C O N TA C T S
URWOOD Council’s Fit for the Future submission is now on public exhibition for comment. Please visit www.ipart.nsw.gov.au to lodge a submission.
CR JOHN FAKER (Mayor) 9911 9916 mayor@burwood.nsw.gov.au CR TONY DOUEIHI
0437 970 499 tony.doueihi@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR SALLY DEANS
0424 022 627 sally.deans@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR LESLEY FURNEAUX-COOK
0408 227 826 lesley.furneaux-cook@burwood.nsw. gov.au
T
HIS year marks seventy years since the final stage of the death marches in Borneo during World War II, when Australian soldiers in Prisoner of War camps were forced to march from Sandakan to Ranau. The atrocities that occurred in the jungle of Borneo during World War II are remembered as one of the most brutal episodes in our nation’s military history with more than 1,300 Australians never returning home. Burwood Council, in conjunction with the Burwood Sandakan Education Committee, will be hosting the annual Sandakan Remembrance Service in honour of these brave men who never returned, and the fortunate few who survived. Date: Sunday 2 August 2015 Time: 11.00am Location: Burwood Sandakan Memorial in Burwood Park, corner of Burwood Road and Park Avenue, Burwood.
CR GEORGE MANNAH
0448 133 396 george.mannah@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR JUSTIN TAUNTON
0488 083 108 justin.taunton@burwood.nsw.gov.au
Burwood Council, Level 2, 1–17 Elsie Street, Burwood NSW 2134
9911 9911 www.burwood.nsw.gov.au
MEETINGS
Grab a warm cuppa in Burwood Park
Council Meeting - 27 July 2015 at 6pm in Council Chambers
NEWS
22 July 2015
5
Sydney dog lovers show giveaway by Davis Barden
BURWOOD SCENE is celebrating the return of the Sydney Dog Lovers Show at the Royal Hall of Industries and Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park from 15-16 August, offering three free double passes to the event. Thousands of passionate dog lovers are expected to attend the event, celebrating the companionship, unconditional affection and joy that the animals bring into people’s lives, while getting up close to a wide range of breeds in the Pat-A-Pooch zone. There are a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including the CANIDAE Rescue Dog Zone which provides a chance to meet dogs from a wide array of shelters and rescue groups from around NSW who are desperate to find safe, loving homes. To acknowledge the ANZAC Centenary, a special tribute to Australian Military Working Dogs will be presented at the event, showcasing the contribution Australian dogs have made in times of war. President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation Nigel Allsopp will
present a history of the four-legged diggers on both days of the event. There will also be live agility and Frisbee shows showcasing the energy and skill of some of Australia’s most talented canines as well as an Explosive Detective Dog demonstration presented by the Australian Defence Force simulating a mock checkpoint in a war scenario. Dogs however won’t be the only stars at the show, with the KONG Celebrity Vet Stage featuring expert seminars from celebrity vets James and Anthony from Village Vets and Bondi Vet’s Dr Lisa Chimes.
HOW TO WIN: For your chance to win tickets, follow these simple steps: 1. ‘Like’ us on Facebook 2. ‘Share’ our ‘Win Double Passes to the Sydney Dog Lovers Show’ post Winners will be announced on the Burwood Scene Facebook page on 5 August 2015.
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COUNCIL MERGERS
22 July 2015
Just sayin’… Bad news is no news
Financial consequences for amalgamated Councils by David Barden
By Mitchell Jordan
Mitchell@scenenewspapers.com.au
AUBURN City, Burwood and City of Canada Bay could receive an estimated financial benefit of $35.1 million according to a joint merger submission lodged to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) by the June 30 deadline. The amalgamation of the three inner west councils would see the formation of a new local government body known as Sydney Olympic Park City Council, encompassing a combined population of an estimated 220,000 within an area of 59.5km2. According to the submission, the merger will see the three councils collectively save an expected $17.1million from the streamlining of services, reduction in staffing levels, consolidation of suppliers and the rationalisation of plant and equipment. The new council would combine the financial strength of each of the three communities, meeting Fit for the Future benchmarks set by the NSW Government after a three-year independent review of local government. It is anticipated that the proposed amalgamation would be able to generate sufficient funds over the long term, decrease debt and provide the services and infrastructure needed by the community. In a joint statement, the Mayors of the three councils highlighted the financial advantages that would occur as a consequence of the merger. “The Auburn City, Burwood and City of Canada Bay scenario works on a number of levels. Financially it will benefit our residents and the growth opportunities are enormous,” they said. However, significant costs will be involved during the implementation phase if given the go ahead, with an estimated $34 to 48 million being spent. A significant portion of this money would be required for the rationalisation of information and communications technology, whilst other costs cover aspects such as new branding across the new entity and redundancy payments, a consequence of the reduction of General Managers and senior contracted staff that would occur. Nevertheless, this figure is significantly lower than the costs involved in the NSW Government’s recommended merger option of Ashfield, Burwood, City of Canada Bay, Leichhardt and Marrickville Councils. An independent study commissioned by the councils revealed that a combined inner west council would have an immediate funding shortfall of more than $60 million, take up to 10 years to break even, and would cost more than $96 million in transition costs.
I NEVER thought it would be possible to dislike the Australian media as much as I do right now. As a journalist I often find myself standing up for the actions of media outlets that I have never worked for and may not even particularly like. As I see it, there is little information that could or should be kept from the public and yet last month my blood was boiling on two separate occasions. No sooner had I begun to recover from the appearance of former terrorism suspect, Zaky Mallah on the ABC’s Q&A which the network has admitted was the wrong decision before I heard that Belle Gibson, the girl who lied about having cancer and made a ridiculous amount of money, would be appearing on 60 Minutes. Maybe it’s because I am one of the journalists who has not been on the receiving end of Mallah’s threats (yet), or possibly it’s from watching someone die of cancer but the mere thought of Gibson receiving any more publicity (she had already appeared in a lengthy interview with the Women’s Weekly) made my blood boil. Forget the talk that Belle may, or may not, have received any sort of money to show the world that she has learnt nothing – and probably never will, 60 Minutes proved its irresponsibility by giving a proven liar a public platform and showing to her and other sociopaths that when you do something hideously, unthinkably wrong the media will always be there to put you in the spotlight. Every journalist knows that there are always two sides to every story but there are also limits as to how much time or space to give the other half. In a clear-cut case of lies versus the truth, 60 Minutes mostly managed to outrage the majority of sane Australians, many of whom showed sound judgement by not tuning in. It concerns me that the media are turning more and more to shock tactics to score ratings or readership (Katie Hopkins, anyone?). Once upon a time before the internet, the media might have held the power but it now belongs to the people and I can’t think of anything better to do than turn off both programs for good.
Mitchell Jordan is Deputy Editor at Burwood Scene.
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From the Combined Council submission.
Setting aside the initial costs involved in executing the proposed merger, each of the councils possess a strong current financial position, with long term financial plans for continued financial sustainability and efficiency.
Sydney Olympic Park City Council is anticipated to have a strong local economy with a Gross Regional Product of approximately $17 billion.
No Council Amalgamations Community Forum A COMMUNITY forum organised by Canada Bay Greens councillor, Pauline Tyrell and chaired by local solicitor Alice Mantel, will discuss council amalgamations under the State Government’s Fit For the Future proposal on Sunday, July 26. “Residents can expect a lively afternoon at the Community Forum,” said Ms Tyrell. “While the State Government seeks to increase the scale of councils, many are questioning the approach on the grounds that local councils may in fact be financially worse off.” “Others are concerned that the reduced level of democratic representation will make councils less accessible to residents while more accessible to developers,” she said.
Speakers will include Canada Bay Liberal councilor Michael Megan, a Labor Canada Bay councillor, David Shoebridge, Greens MLC, Tony Oldfield, Auburn Councillor (Battler group), Pauline Tyrrell, Canada Bay Councillor (Greens) and Caroline Corrigan, Save Our Councils Coalition. “This Forum is an opportunity for residents to hear for themselves, in an informal setting, the views of Councillors from Canada Bay and Auburn Councils as well as such groups as the Save Our Councils Coalition,” said Pauline Tyrrell. The Community Forum will be held at Concord Library, Flavelle Street, Concord on Sunday 26 July from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.
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COUNCIL MERGERS
22 July 2015
7
Merged council forecasts massive population growth
22 May 2013
Xrytrytr rytrytrytrt ryry Top: The view east from Auburn of a possible Sydney Olympic Park City Council. Above: Auburn Mayor Ronney Oueik, Burwood Mayor John Faker and Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas. Right: Major Town Centres. by Belinda Noonan
AUBURN, Bur wood and Canada Bay’s merger proposal to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) outlines a 25 per cent population growth from 219,800 to almost 320,000 by 2031. Under the NSW Government’s Fit for the Future initiative, all NSW councils were required to lodge their submissions by June 30 this year. Un d e r i t s c o m b i n e d submission, Auburn, Burwood and Canada Bay council areas could become the Sydney Olympic Park City Council. This proposal brings together three councils of the inner west in Sydney with a combined population of around 220,000 in an area of 59.5km2. The decision to explore a merger comes following the State Government’s strong indication that ‘no-change’ is not an option for councils. “All three Councils want to stand alone as we believe we are fit for the future under our existing structures but the State Government has given us very little choice by saying that ‘no change’ is not an option,” said the Mayors in a joint statement. “Indications to date suggest putting in a stand-alone option would see all three Councils
deemed unfit and none of us want that for our Councils or our communities. We really did not have an option but to investigate all alternatives.” As part of the State Government’s reform program, Burwood and Canada Bay were proposed to form part of an inner west mega Council, while Auburn was touted to go west as part of a merger with Parramatta, Holroyd, parts of Ryde and parts of the Hills. “We all commissioned independent research on the proposed options and found they did not stack up financially in the long-term and would not benefit any of the communities involved,” Mayors Oueik, Faker and Tsirekas said. “In the end, the study showed this option was clearly in the best interests of all of our residents. All three Councils have developed a realistic proposal based on the similarities in our communities, rather than wait for the State Government to force its hand.” The political manoeuvring behind the scenes suggests that existing council boundaries could change, potentially affecting all the current boundary lines. Whispers are floating that the eastern side of Auburn, which takes in Sydney Olympic Park, could be viewed as a favourable
match for Burwood and Canada Bay (and potentially Strathfield). Whilst these rumours are unconfirmed, the three mayors said in their statement that there is a commonality of interests between the three existing council areas. “The Auburn City, Burwood and City of Canada Bay scenario works on a number of levels. Financially it will benefit our Auburn Burwood Canada Bay New Council - Day 1 residents and the growth opportunities are enormous,” Population 2016 91,700 37,850 90,250 219,800 they said. The population of the combined councils is forecast to rise to 289,450 by 2031, with an “Our areas have similar additional 31,000 people as a result of the Parramatta Road Urban Renewal Strategy, making communities of interest a total population in excess of 321,000 by 2031. surrounding the Olympic Park precinct, which could serve as of each Council being overseas “This option would see both development and growth the centre for the new council Rhodes and Olympic Park anticipated in Auburn, born, and China being the top in the future.” country of birth (for overseas grouped together under a single Homebush, Burwood, and The combined proposal differs entity, whereas the Review Kings Bay. to that originally recommended born) in all three Councils. Panel’s proposal would see these These four Precincts will cater “Each of the Councils in the two centres split between two by the Independent Local Government Review Panel that proposed merger individually Council areas despite being less for approximately 60 per cent would have seen a six-council a strong current financial than 4 kms or 10 minutes apart.” of all residential growth to be Xrytryryrytryhave Photo: delivered in the corridor. inner west merger, however, position, with long term The defining area is the the mayors believe their joint financial plans for continued The projected growth is 360 submission to be, “broadly financial sustainability and Parramatta Road Renewal forecast to be highest in Auburn consistent and achieves the efficiency. Thus a merger of Project. Historically, Parramatta Road at around 2.6 per cent each ILGRP’s desired outcomes the three would result in a year followed by Burwood and around population, functional new entity with a very strong was the artery from the city to Canada Bay at around 1.6 per the west and the same holds true interaction and unified local financial position as a starting 220 years after the first overland cent each year, making the new government to plan and provide point,” the submission states. entity one of the fastest growing track was cleared by 1791. for regional infrastructure.” A key strength of the In its submission Auburn, The mo dern-day and areas in metropolitan Sydney Burwood and Canada Bay proposed merger is that the long-overdue renewal project and NSW. The other natural boundaries Councils declare they all have new Council would have three encompasses eight precincts a similar ethnic cultural mix, Strategic Centres, in Burwood, along the Parramatta Road are the river frontages of the with between 40-60 per cent Rhodes, and Olympic Park. C o r r i d o r, w i t h m a j o r Parramatta and Duck Rivers.
Putting your feet first Home and Community Podiatry Service, auspiced by Burwood Council, is for residents of the Ashfield, Burwood, Canada Bay, Canterbury, Leichhardt, Marrickville and Strathfield Local Government Areas. We aim to provide a comprehensive, responsive and flexible podiatry service for the Home and Community Care target group which includes the frail aged, people with disabilities, and their carers. If you think you, a friend or family member may be eligible please call the Podiatry Service on 99 11 99 39 to talk to someone about the service.
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BACK TO SCHOOL 8
22 July 2015
@ SCHOOL Guitars rock out at Homebush Boys
Call to toughen rules L OOkids for working with @ SCH by Saimi Jeong
which was passed by the NSW Parliament. Under the new laws, the maximum sentence for sexual intercourse with a child under 10 has been raised from 25 years to life. Ms Mihailuk said offenders should not be in a position to work with children and therefore prevented from being able to appeal a refused Working With Children Check. “Labor is calling on the government to preclude individuals with previous convictions for murder,
child sex offences, and other certain serious sex offences, from seeking an appeal to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal,” she said. “We need to be clear about the kinds of jobs and volunteer positions we’re talking about here: the local surf club, kids’ sporting clubs and youth centres.” “We need to be absolutely sure that the people taking up these most trusted positions in our society are fit and proper persons who pose no threat to the safety of our children.”
and the factors that influence student choice about starting VET, including barriers to participation. Factors affecting the costs of delivering affordable and accessible training, including the impact of the co-contribution funding model, and the level of industry participation in the VET sector, will also be examined. The committee Chair, Paul Green MLC, said the inquiry will look at the effects of a competitive
training market on student access to VET, including for “the most vulnerable in our community, such as people suffering a disability, severe disadvantage or isolation”. All interested stakeholders, organisations and individuals are invited to make a written submission to the inquiry. Submissions are due by August 14 and public hearings will take place from September, with the committee set to report by November 17.
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SPEAKING in Parliament last month, Shadow Minister for Family and Community Services Tania Mihailuk called on Premier Mike Baird to broaden the range of offences that would stop individuals from appealing a refused Working With Children Check application. The timing of the call coincided with new legislation lengthening sentences for child sex offenders
Year 10 student, Daniel Choi.
A COZY audience of parents, staff, local friends and students enjoyed an hour of diverse musical entertainment at the annual Recital Night concert at Homebush Boys High School. In recent years, a display of student artworks has become an added feature of the event. Twenty students performed during the concert, including piano soloists, an
SCHOUpper OLHouse HOLID AYS inquiry into VET electric guitarist, a violinist, guitar duet, guitar ensemble and the Year 9 music class band, 4 Shades. A lucky door prize draw ended the concert, with winners receiving vouchers for services and products donated by local businesses. Donations totalled more than $240, which will go towards the Nepal Relief Appeal.
by Saimi Jeong
Back To Schoo l
MID-YEAR SPECIALS
AN UPPER House committee will conduct an inquiry into issues arising from recent Smart and Skilled reforms to the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system. The inquiry will be wide-ranging, covering the role played by public and private VET providers, including in the delivery of services to regional and rural communities,
Swing Back To Schoo l the
mallet
CROQUET has joined the school sports list at Strathfield Girls High School with over 30 students now playing the genteel, yet intricate thinking game at the croquet club on Redmyre Road. “Watching all the girls file down the driveway and fill the club house was quite a sight,” said Ruth Bridger. “The girls were delightful, and they quickly showed how capable they were with ball and mallet.” Croquet club members and coaches were on hand to teach the basics.
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To register please visit www.plc.nsw.edu.au/events/parent-information-sessions Alternatively if you are unable to attend, please contact our Enrolments Office to arrange a private tour of the College at a time suitable for your family. T (+612) 9704 5666 E enquiries@plc.nsw.edu Boundary Street Croydon NSW 2132
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@ SCHOOL
22 July 2015
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Reaching out to the disadvantaged ROSEBANK College’s students accepted the challenge to step out of their comfort zone by participating in the 2015 Good Samaritan Education Ministry Outreach program during the recent school holidays. Five Year 11 students - Isabella Murphy, Marcella Pulone, Lauryn Bukureshliev, Isabelle Obeido and Lily Tchopourian along with their teacher Kate Plokstys joined their peers from Good Samaritan schools nationwide to gain insights into the lives of those in the community who face a range of challenges on a daily basis and to respond in a practical way. The girls visited a range of agencies including women’s refuges, soup
kitchens, nursing homes and refugee centres. Lauryn describes her experience as an eye-opener saying that, “I learnt to be more open to different people and their circumstances. Through this, I was able to appreciate my own and have come away with a determination to make the most out of life.” Isabella, who spent time at the Exodus Foundation, was shocked to learn that of the 350 people she served, she was possibly the only person they had spoken to all day and some had no home to go to. “You never really think about things like that until someone brings it to your attention.”
Right: Teacher Kate Plokstys with Rosebank students Marcella Pulone, Isabella Murphy, Isabelle Obeido, Lily Tchopourian and Lauryn Bukureshliev.
Indigenous journey for Burwood public students THE 350 students of Burwood Public School will be enriched by a workshop in early August when the popular Indigenous Infusion and Kinder Dreaming by Western Creation pay a visit. Western Creation is a family performing group that are amongst the most inspiring indigenous groups currently presenting indigenous culture.
Western Creation will perform at Burwood Public School.
growingscholars growingminds growinggirls
Al, Azlan and Tristan Harris of the Noongar tribe and the Bibbulmann clan i n WA p e r f o r m a n c e s promote reconciliation and u n d e rs t an d i ng b e t we e n all people in Australia by facilitating some of world’s oldest art forms. The performance is part of Cultural Infusion, a national
organisation dedicated to creating intercultural contact for a positive change through a range of sustainable arts and engagement programs for education, youth and communities. Indigenous Infusion and Kinder Dreaming will be at Burwood Public School on August 3 and 4.
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NEWS
22 July 2015
$2,000 win for new business owner
NORTH Strathfield beautician Stephanie Kerba from Complete Indulgence Beauty has won the latest $2,000 Small Business Buddy Wish from BizCover Insurance. Stephanie’s new business has been operating for just over seven months but she is already making a name for herself in the community as an expert. “We’re best known for our eyebrows,” said Stephanie. “My business has doubled since we opened purely because once a client comes in for their eyebrow reshaping and then sees what we do, they tell everyone.”
Her passionate work ethic caught the attention of BizCover for the latest round of the Small Business Buddy Grant. “We want to honour that Aussie entrepreneurship that too often gets knocked back by the lack of early stage funding. The BizCover Small Business Buddy Grant is specifically designed to assist business and be the boost they need to allow their business to take a step up to the next level,” said BizCover Founder, Michael Gottlieb. Stephanie plans to repaint the Stephanie Kerba salon with her win.
Budget surplus spells more services and infrastructure THE NSW Budget is set to provide an estimated $712.6million surplus this financial year with more surpluses forecast in following years. The Baird Government has promised to provide record infrastructure and services including the acceleration of projects. Fo r t h e D r u m m oy n e Electorate this financial year, $3.6million has been allocated to complete planning and commence construction on commuter wharf upgrades, $1.25m to create a right turn bay from Parramatta Road into Great North Road at Five Dock and grants of $776,000 to Canada Bay Council for road maintenance. “Our region is benefiting from this huge boost whether it is funding for major road projects or extra services right across our schools and hospitals,’’ said Drummoyne MP John Sidoti.
“In this Budget the State will fund an average of $10.3billion a year on infrastructure over the forward estimates, with State infrastructure spending in NSW over four years a record $68.6billion, including major health and school and transport projects.” Other local projects include $80,000 for pedestrian facilities at the signalised intersection of Victoria Road and Lyons Road Drummoyne to improve road safety. “In total nearly $88million has been allocated to the Drummoyne electorate, which includes $74.5m for WestConnex planning and preconstruction works. This is on top of the record community grants to not for profit and sporting organisations,” Mr Sidoti said. The bigger ticket items in the Strathfield Electorate program funding for roads includes $1million on the Parramatta Road Corridor project and
$ 9 8 2 , 0 0 0 for p ave me nt upgrading on Leicester Avenue in North Strathfield. $1.5million has been allocated to start design and property acquisition to duplicate the eastbound right turn bay from Parramatta Road into Shaftesbury Road, Burwood. Smaller works to be funded this financial year are $60,000 for a pedestrian refuge at Beresford Road, Strathfield and also Duke Road. Strathfield Council also benefit from a $58,000 grant to develop a bike plan to improve local connections and support active transport. Changes to the Homebush shopping precinct include a $38,000 contribution to Strathfield Council to install a median island stop treatment on Burlington Road and Rochester Street that is funded under the Federal Government’s Black Spot Program.
Burwood artist takes home grand prize by David Barden
LOCAL artist Elise Martinson has won the $6000 grand prize in the Art Toppling Tobacco competition, which aims to draw attention to the damaging effects of tobacco. The winning entry titled ‘Toxic’ drew upon the negative impacts that smoking has on the environment, contributing to air, land and sea pollution and damaging vulnerable ecosystems. Ms Martinson highlighted that a significant factor that led to her entering the competition was the damaging health effects that her grandfather suffered after decades of smoking. “Personally, I am really against smoking but one of the main influences behind me getting involved was the negative health effects suffered by my grandpa who was a heavy smoker. He was a part of the generation that cigarettes were heavily marketed towards, but there was never any mention of the damage it would do to your body,” she said. “However, it’s not just people who are being affected by smoking though as cigarettes are polluting the environment and causing extensive damage which I aimed to portray in my work.” The grand final round of the competition was judged by Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, who commented that Ms Martinson’s work portrayed the despair and desolation of nicotine addiction and its seemingly endless capacity to capture its victims Ms Martinson’s other work ‘A fresh start’ was also a winner of the semi-final round of the competition, judged by the Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore. The idea behind the work was to create a more positive “quit smoking” campaign. The work shows a hand holding a flower instead of a cigarette against a stark red background, the flower being
Elise Martinson’s ‘Toxic’ won the $6000 grand final prize.
symbolic of fresh air whilst the stop-sign like red background signifying the end of a smoking habit. The artwork has since
been replicated in a remote Western Australian community in the hopes that it will inspire smokers to quit.
Bethlehem College - so mu ch more than ju s t a s c ho o l With 133 years of experience in girls’ education, Bethlehem College provides every student with the opportunity to realise her full potential. At Bethlehem College your daughter will enjoy: • A quality Catholic education in the tradition of the Sisters of Charity • A Gifted &Talented program including Selective Stream • A broad, enrichment program including Debating, Public Speaking, Duke of Edinburgh & Tournament of Mind • Learning Support Programs • An extensive performing arts program including College Band • Access to a range of sport programs including representative sport • An extensive social justice program • Modern facilities including new science labs, art facilities, video conferencing room performing arts space and College hall.
Este Fideles
22 July 2015
MONTHLY COMMUNITY NEWS
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Build your community Renovation rules under the hammer by David Barden
COMMUNITY organisations in the Strathfield electorate are being encouraged by the state government to apply for funding under the Community Building Partnership program. The program offers grant funding for infrastructure based projects that contribute to developing a vibrant, sustainable and inclusive community. Member for Strathfield, Jodi McKay, highlighted that the purpose of the grants is to fund the building and improvement of local community facilities. “Incorporated not-for-profit
community organisations and local councils are encouraged to apply for funding to build and improve facilities in our local community,” she said. “This program supports the building, refurbishment or enhancement of community i n f r ast r u c tu re f a c i l it i e s that deliver positive social, recreational and environmental outcomes for the community.” In 2014 eight community organisations within the Strathfield electorate received a combined total of $399,993 in funding from the state government. The projects are expected to stimulate participation in
activities or services needed by a broad section of the community whilst simultaneously promoting the inclusion of disadvantaged or marginalised sections of the public. Applications will be assessed against all other projects lodged within a state electorate on merit in accordance with a set of criteria available on the Community Building Partnership website. Candidates can apply and obtain additional information from: communitybuilding partnerships.nsw.gov.au Applications close Friday 7 August 2015.
Housing developments soar HOUSING developments in NSW have received a major boost, with construction approvals soaring to levels not seen in 20 years, according to Planning Minister Rob Stokes. The Australian Bureau of Statistics recorded 5,374 dwelling approvals in NSW for May 2015 – 28 percent more than in the same month last year. “This outstanding result means housing approvals for May 2015 are more than double
the levels achieved under the last five years of the previous Government,” Mr Stokes said. “Boosting supply to help meet demand is the best way we can help homebuyers.” The NSW government has committed $400 million to infrastructure specifically designed to unlock land for new developments. It has released and rezoned land for more than 70,000 new homes across Sydney and set aside $77.6 million to support
infrastructure for new homes in The Hills and Blacktown local government areas. Mr Stokes said the NSW government would be “pressing ahead to unlock housing potential so there is more land available for people to build a home”. “Increased housing supply means there are more options for homebuyers, and helps put downward pressure on the cost of a new home,’ he said.
Minister at the Markets
Last week, the CEO of Sydney Markets Brad Latham welcomed NSW Small Business Minister John Barilaro before a forum with trainee Markets managers Bart Vigone, Raymond Zoghab, Elizabeth Ellis from Barrington Training, Aldwin Lassiter, and Milan Plecas.
HOME building and renovation rules will be rewritten to make them more user-friendly following an announcement by NSW Planning Minister Rob Stokes that the system needs to be simplified. The announcement comes as the NSW Government released an online video to promote early discussion between neighbours when they are planning a new home or an extension. Mr Stokes said the planning
system needed to be simplified and made easier to understand. “I want to make our planning laws easier to understand for everyone. “You shouldn’t need a degree in planning to add an extra bedroom to your house,” Mr Stokes said. “Rules should be plain and simple for the basic renovations people want to make to their home or investment property.” The first step will be rewriting
the Housing Code, which governs home building and renovation, so people wanting to undertake simple complying developments understand what they need to do. Mr Stokes said talking to a neighbour before starting any project was a quick and easy way to share your ideas and make sure you can keep your neighbour happy. The video is available on YouTube.
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NEWS
22 July 2015
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NEWS
22 July 2015
Call to end China’s illegal organ harvesting by David Barden
UP TO 50 demonstrators collected over 300 signatures at Burwood Station in early July for a petition opposing forced organ harvesting from detained Falun Gong practitioners in China. The worldwide petition, started by Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH), has gained over 1.5 million signatures and is one of the largest petition campaigns to the UN on a single issue. DAFOH, an international organis at ion committe d to stopping illegal organ harvesting, has identified prisoners of conscience as being among the largest group of victims, with a majority from the Falun Gong spiritual group. Falun Gong is described as a spiritual meditation practice that focuses heavily on s elf-c ultivation and self-improvement, with the
aim of refining the body into a higher form. The practice is banned in China and its members face persecution from the government whom it believes jeopardise the Chinese social structure and overall public safety. Organiser and Berala resident Lucy Zhao is hopeful that the petition will bring global attention to China’s alleged illegal organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience. “Obviously we can’t start a war with China, but we are relying on the UN as an international organisation to bring this issue to the attention of the global community and hopefully stop China from carrying out what they are doing,” she said. China currently has the second highest rate of organ transplants in the world, with startlingly short waiting times for recipients of just two to three
weeks, compared to Australia’s waiting times of between six months and four years. The Chinese government has previously denied allegations of forced organ harvesting, claiming that all donors were volunteers. However, it was later revealed that organs were also being harvested from executed prisoners. Yet activists continue to argue that even with the organs obtained from death row inmates, there is still an additional source being utilised that accounts for the astoundingly short transplant waiting times. “The numbers just do not add up with anything that the Chinese government is saying,” Ms Zhao said. “Initially they denied organ harvesting but then it was revealed that organs were being taken from prisoners who had been executed on death row. But
secure memory support area for residents experiencing dementia. O p e n e d by M P f or Drummoyne, John Sidoti, the new wings are named Ethel ‘Stalky’ Lane and Bellona, chosen specifically for their historical relevance to the Concord area and honouring the work of nurse Ethel Lane with WWII widows and veterans and the ship (The
Bellona) that marked free settlement in the local area of Concord. Among the visitors who attended the ceremony were members of Ethel Lane’s family who live in the local Concord community. According to general manager, Erin Sharp, the event caught the interest of several community members.
Rotary member’s sapphire honour
even with this, the numbers still don’t add up.” Event organiser Kitty Choi, who migrated to Australia from Hong Kong and now runs a family business in Burwood, hopes that Australians are made aware of China’s alleged organ transplantation methods. “Organ harvesting from unwilling donors in China, a majority of whom are prisoners of conscience, is horrific and must be stopped,” she said. “We hope the people of Australia and our Government will not remain indifferent to what is surely one of the worst crimes in modern history.” “There are victims of torture in Sydney who have been exposed to blood tests and other tests for organ transplants in Chinese prisons and labour camps. We hope to get more support and signatures from local residents to the petition to the UN to help end the forced organ harvesting.”
Aged care manor turns a new leaf REDLEAF Manor Aged Care in Concord celebrated the completion of its renovations and extension of two new neighbourhood wings last month. The original home was built in 2008 and showcased a refurbishment, which will provide additional accommo dat ion for 50 residents. The extension includes a dedicated and
Burwood Rotarian Ron Lucas and his wife Athalie.
“The day was just as much about thanking our residents, their families and the community for their patience and understanding during the building phase as it was showcasing our magnificent new home,” she said. “ The response to the renovations was extraordinary, with quite a few of our rooms reserved on the day.”
LONG-STANDING Burwood Rotary member Ron Lucas was farewelled last month after almost 50 years of service. During his time, Ron held various positions, including President. On the night, he was awarded by President Irene Giardino, a Paul Harris Fellow. “It is our Club’s tradition that the naming of a Paul Harris Fellow is based upon the contribution of individual members and members of the community who practice the
Rotary motto: service above self,” said President Giardino. “Ron has over many, many years exemplified that motto. Ron is now a Multiple Paul Harris Fellow with one sapphire.” Following the speeches was a Ron Lucas roast, where members of the club recalled many light-hearted stories about Ron over the many years of his membership with the club. Ron has not left Rotary but has joined a club closer to home.
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NEWS
MONTHLY COMMUNITY NEWS
BRIEFLY
FIND YOU FAMILY HISTORY The Burwood and District Family History Group will hold its next workshop on Saturday August 1, 2.00pm start, at Burwood Library, 2 Conder Street, Burwood. The workshop will look at how to use the Advance Search in Trove, how to get the best results in Find My Past and help to solve research problems. Bring along your research questions. Contact: Judith 9797 0240 NEW ROTARY PRESIDENT INDUCTED Allan Petersen has been inducted as the 2015/16 Strathfield Rotary Club President at the annual Change-over Dinner on June 27. Mr Petersen thanked outgoing President Allan Teale for his year-long leadership that helped to raise funds and organise community events. Rotarian and incoming “Sergeant” Chris Virgona was honoured as a Paul Harris Fellow. GET OUT AND GROW Ashfield Council and Planet Ark are inviting residents to get outside and grow for Planet Ark’s National Tree Day on Sunday, 26 July at Cadigal Reserve, Grosvenor Street, Summer Hill. Activities start at 9am and finish at 12noon. Everyone including children are welcome to join in planting – no experience required. Residents are asked to wear long sleeved shirts, closed-in footwear and a hat.
FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY BUILDING Applications for funding are now open for infrastructure projects that meet a need in the local community. Not-for-profit community organisations and local councils are being encouraged to apply for grant funding under the Community Building Partnership program in 2015. Projects can involve the building or refurbishment of community facilities used for positive social, recreational and environmental purposes. Applications for funding will be open until August 7, and can be made via the communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au website. STEERING DRUMMOYNE ROADS TO SAFETY Drummoyne roads will benefit from $80,000 in NSW Government funding that has been allocated in the 2015-16 Budget for improvements as part of the Safer Roads Program. The program will fund pedestrian safety signals at the traffic lights on the corner of Lyons and Victoria Roads at Drummoyne. The news was welcomed by Member for Drummoyne, John Sidoti. “Generally projects approved under this program are lower cost improvements which can be delivered quickly to provide greater safety for all road users in local communities,” he said. “I was thrilled to hear about the funding we were allocated. Planning work can now start and improvements will be delivered as soon as possible.”
22 July 2015
AFL annual grudge match ready to rumble THE fourth annual grudge match between the Sydney Sailors and Western Walers hits Marrickville’s Henson Park on Sunday, August 2 as the sides battle it out for the coveted Aussie Rules Sydney Community Cup. T h e e a g e r l y aw a it e d clash features local media personalities (Sydney Sailors) and hard-nosed musos (Western Walers) with the Sailors holding ascendancy with three straight victories. Federal Shadow Minister Anthony Albanese played with the Walers last year and is pulling on his footy boots again to step up to the mark for this year’s Cup. “I played a lot of rugby league when I was young but this will be my second game ever after my debut last year,” Mr Albanese said. “My key performance indicator of success will be walking off Henson Park at the end of the game having enjoyed myself.” “This is about raising funds for Reclink, a charity which engages young, disadvantaged people in their local community through sport and the arts,” he said. Now celebrating 21 years in Melbourne with crowds of over 12,000 supporters attending the notorious Rockdogs v Megahertz rivalry, the Sydney Community Cup is becoming
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THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND
The gift of hearing with Cochlear implants FAYE Yarroll has a story to share; of living with profound hearing loss then receiving two Cochlear implants and how she received the “greatest gift of all”, the gift of hearing. As guest speaker for the City of Canada Bay Heritage Society on August 1st, Faye will outline her journey and also bring along Sydney, her Lions Hearing Dog. Her dog, Sydney, offers safety, security and independence for
the hearing impaired at home and also give their owners the confidence to participate more fully in the community. Faye’s talk ‘A Wonderful Cochlear Hearing Journey’ is on at the City of Canada Bay Museum, 1 Bent Street, Concord on Saturday, August 1 from 1.30pm. Admission is free and includes light refreshments and the opportunity to chat with Faye.
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MONTHLY COMMUNITY NEWS
Federal MP Anthony Albanese, Alex Dyson from Triple J and Mark Evans from AC/DC at Newtown Social Club.
one of the most anticipated events on the local calendar and preparations are well underway to make this a family friendly fun day out. The event will raise funds for Reclink Australia, who use sport and the arts to enhance the lives of people experiencing disadvantage and targets some
of the community’s most vulnerable and isolated people. Those experiencing mental illness, disability, homelessness, substance abuse, addiction, and social and economic hardship are assisted by a network of over 300 member agencies around the country.
THANKS FOR SUCCESSFUL MOVIE NIGHT
What: 2015 Reclink Community Cup When: Sunday, August 2. Gates open at 11am Where: Henson Park, Marrickville Food and beverages available on the day. Entry is by $5 donation.
THE ACRES CLUB
Dear Burwood Scene, Due to great On behalf of the Croydon Park Business Chamber demand, they’re Youth Committee we would like to thank you for your support for our movie night. back… The youth committee was initiated this year to engage with the youth of Croydon Park and help youth come together to make a difference in our community. The inaugural event was our introduction to the DINE youth of Croydon Park and we hoped to gather members to join our small group. Although we weren’t able to sign new members, the event was still a grand success. On Saturday 1 August @ 7pm We had over seventy people at the Western Suburbs AFL club, everyone came out and enjoyed $10.00 per head an eventful night with the screening of our movie • Courtesy Bus Available • Bistro Open “Despicable Me”, a raffle draw and presentation of prizes for the games we had organised for the DONT MISS OUT night. BOOK NOW! THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND DINE We believe the night would not have been as Greenacre Bowling much of a success without your support. We’d like to thank you and hope you continue to support Club & Rec Club us in the future. 231 Roberts Road,
THE
S L A V I V RE LIVE HERE
CPBC Youth Committee Melinda Sloan, Rocky Pang, Marcella Gallace, Edward Frame and Andrew Nguyen
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SPORT
22 July 2015
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Britannia rules the river no more
Britannia Challenge Cup winners at Henley-On-Thames – from left: Kendall Brodie (coxswain), Matt Dignan, Ed White, Tom Gunton and Steve Peile with their trophies and in action. by Belinda Noonan
SYDNEY Rowing Club sent its largest squad ever to Henley Royal Regatta in the UK in early July coming away with the prestigious Britannia Challenge Cup for the first time in club history. The four-event regatta at Henley-on-Thames attracts club rowers from all over the world, including USA, South Africa, New Zealand, Europe and Australia.
A mix of s e vente en international and club rowers from Sydney Rowing Club, supported by two coaches and a manager, competed in the Wyfold Challenge Cup for coxless fours, The Fawley Challenge Cup for Quadruple Sculls, The Visitors Challenge Cup for coxless fours and the Britannia Challenge Cup for Coxed Fours. The Abbotsford-based rowers had qualified the weekend prior to the main racing in all four events, which is competed in
‘Wimbledon’ style where two crews row against each other. The standard at Henley in all events is considered as extremely high and described as an unofficial Club World Championship. The victorious Britannia Challenge Cup crew, which is a race only for club rowers, of Kendall Brodie (coxswain), Matt Dignan, Ed White, Tom Gunton and Steve Peile were firm favourites for this event said Sydney Rowing Club President Keith Jameson.
“Our Britannia crew won by an impressive four lengths over Thames Rowing Club. Not a bad present for strokeman Matt Dignan who celebrated his birthday as well as the famous win,” Mr Jameson commented. “The Henley Regatta is important in terms of the opportunity it provides to compete at that level, and also the prestige of attaining that level,” Mr Jameson added. Sydney Rowing Club tweeted on the day: “They sent us away in 1788 and now we’ve come to rule Britannia”.
In the three other events, Sydney Rowing Club made it to the finals in The Visitors Challenge only to be beaten by the University of California, Berkeley crew by 1¾ lengths. The Wyfold four won their first heat but went out to a strong New Zealand crew in the second round. The junior men, Max Brenner, Rob Wells, Hugh Courts and Max Duignan raced in the Fawley Quadruple Sculls, which coach Lachlan Carter believes was arguably the best Fawley Quad that SRC has ever boated.
“In their second race they left the blocks with fantastic speed, got the early lead but the Glasgow Academy crew proved too good for these young men,” coach Carter said. Head Coach Don Cech hadn’t been to Henley since 2007 and was surprised at how much harder it is to do well. “You have to be training like you’re on the National Team because the best club athletes from all over the world are coming here to compete and to win,” he said.
League facilities grants open THE NSW Footy Facilities Fund to improve the standard of grounds and facilities and increase participation is now open for applications. The joint initiative between the NRL and NSW Government is aimed at grass roots involvement for local clubs. “Partnering with the NRL, the Footy Facilities Fund aims to provide facilities for grassroots clubs to help increase participation, safety and security, environmental sustainability,
social inclusion and build strong local and regional communities,” said NSW Sports Minister Stuart Ayres. NRL Head of Football Todd Greenberg said grassroots facilities were crucial to the success of Rugby League. “This program not only improves the safety and security of facilities at local footy clubs, it also provides the services needed to help more boys, girls and people with disabilities to be part of our game,” Mr Greenberg said.
Applications are open until Wednesday August 12 and can include improved safety and security at sport and recreation facilities, upgrades to amenities, provision of disability access, developing environmentally sustainable sport and recreation facilities such as – installation of drainage, rainwater tanks, more efficient lighting – and building strong communities. See www.dsr.nsw.gov.au/grants
Dragon Boats Open Day TO ADVERTISE CALL 9715 2700
ONE of Australia’s fastest growing sports – Dragon boating combines strength and cardio and has crews for many ages and abilities starting from the youth squad (12 years-of-age). Dragon boating uses most of the muscles in the body as well as improving your aerobic and anaerobic fitness. The Dragon Sports Association (DSA) is a racing club located in Rhodes, near Homebush and is
holding its next Open Day on Sunday, August 16 from 11am until 1pm at Uhrs Point Reserve, Concord Road in Rhodes. Anyone interested in finding out what the sport is about can have a friendly paddle. DSA have their own free onsite parking, dragon boats and outrigger canoes. See www.dsadragon.org – call 0414 714 898 or email recruit@ dsadragon.org
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BURWOOD SCENE
22 July 2015