KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH THE COMMUNITY
Independent FORTNIGHTLY COMMUNITY NEWS
27 August 2014 6 October 2011
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NEWS
www.burwoodscene.com.au
Burwood’s
GEARING UP for the
ANZAC Spring Sept 21 Festival Girl Page 11
Volume 09 No.4
NEWS
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WOMEN’S REFUGE CRISIS Page 3 6 October 2011
Page 5
Extra days for girls by Saimi Jeong
STRATHFIELD’S Business and Professional Women’s club has banded together with a charity that supplies feminine hygiene supplies to young women in the developing world who would otherwise go without. By partnering with Days for Girls, BPW Strathfield aims to help provide sustainable hygiene products to girls who resort to using leaves, mattress stuffing, newspaper and rocks to manage their periods and try to stay in school. Faye Helou, BPW Strathfield President first heard of the initiative through a speaker from the charity. “I was absolutely shocked – I’d never thought about the fact girls couldn’t go to school because they didn’t have access to hygiene products,” Faye Helou said. She thought the focus on economic empowerment for women fitted well with BPW’s objectives. “It’s really important because it helps young women retain dignity,” she said. “But we’re also giving them extra days at school. One kit will last a girl three years.” Girls in developing countries without access to hygiene products can miss up to eight months of school in three years, and are more likely to drop out altogether. Research has shown that one extra year at school can boost a woman’s income by up to 20 per cent and that girls who complete seven years education marry later and have fewer children – improving their chances of escaping poverty. “People can donate money or time to make kits. BPW Strathfield is going to coordinate this initiative,” Faye explained. The club has high hopes for the Days for Girls project in the long-term, including hopes to attract sponsors. “We have BPW branches in every state in Australia… I can see this growing way beyond Strathfield,” Ms Helou said. “It is very early days – but I’d love to see involvement internationally.”
Production Manager Kaye Briscoe, BPW Strathfield President Faye Helou and BPW Team Leader of Days for Girls project Catherine Cahill.
96 Shaftesbury Road & 97 Burwood Road Burwood p. 8741 2888 | 9745 4100 f. 8741 2800 e. office@clubburwood.com.au
For bookings phone Club Reception on 8741 2888, in person 96 Shaftesbury Road, Burwood or online at
clubburwood.com.au ‘Like’ us on Facebook All shows at Club Burwood RSL are for patrons 18 years and over unless otherwise stated.
BUDDY’S BACK
ITALY BY NIGHT
LATINO SUPERSTARS
Saturday 20th Sept. 8:30pm $16 Saturday 4th October 8:30pm $15 Saturday 6th September 8:30pm $15 Tony Pantano is joined by vivacious Starring Christian Guerrero, Raquel Scot Robin who played the lead role vocalist Tina Petroni and the dazzling Martinez and many more in the smash hit musical “Buddy”, will instrumentalist Paul Cincotta in an Tribute to Latin American superstars perform over thirty of Buddy Holly’s exceptional night of world class of today including Gloria Estefan, Ricky hit songs including “That’ll Be The showmanship with rich musical Martin, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Santana Day”, “Peggy Sue”, “Raining In My heritage of Italian culture that is and the Gypsy Kingz in a spectacular Heart”, “Rave On” and of course “Oh popular throughout the world. show of impersonation and dance. Boy!”.
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News
27 August 2014
desk
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T WAS UNINTENTIONAL, but this issue is heavily weighted towards women’s issues. Men are sadly underrepresented in Burwood Scene this week but I’m not feeling too bad because turning the tables once in a while is a positive step. According to statistics published on the Australian Institute of Company Directors on July 31, the latest percentage of women on ASX 200 boards is 18.2%, which is a rise in representation every year since 2010 and the highest they have been in Australia, however there is a long way to go. A total of 41 boards in
By Belinda Noonan
WOMEN’S BUSINESS the ASX 200 still do not have any women. The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) recently appointed its first woman Secretary General in Harvard educated lawyer Fiona de Jong, who had served as Director of Sport for the previous ten years.
Sport is a barrier breaker for more than times and records. The AOC Executive led by President John Coates is close to equal status between men and women after Nicole Livingstone, Kitty Chiller and Danielle Woodward joined the Board in April this year.
So perhaps the glass ceiling is showing a few fractures. Opportunity should be equal. That’s the land and culture in which we live. Not so for developing countries as demonstrated on our front page or sadly, for those Australian women who want to escape domestic violence or are facing other hardship. ‘Women’s business’ used to be a taboo subject in ‘polite company’ and there may be readers today who could be shocked at seeing a story that features menstruation on a newspaper’s front page. There are school girls still missing in Africa, limited education for girls in the
Middle East and more. Last October the Washington Post published a stunning story ‘7 most ridiculous restrictions on women’s rights around the world’, which reported ludicrous laws such as in some parts of India, road rules don’t apply to women. In Yemen, a woman is not recognised as a full person before the court and can’t leave the house without their husband’s permission (except in exceptional circumstances). These are extreme examples but they do demonstrate the difficulty for women in accessing education in some countries, having a voice or making a difference. There remains work to do at
home, not the least of which is making sure vulnerable Australian women can seek emergency shelter, often with their children. Governments are getting in the way with red tape and a money-saving mentality, which is potentially endangering those vulnerable women that, in the long term will cost far, far more and not just in budgetary bottom lines. But let’s finish upbeat. My thanks to Jon Breen from the Burwood District Historical Society who brought the ABC’s ANZAC Girls and Burwood’s WWI nurse Elsie Sheppard (Cook) to my attention and is featured on page 11. Bravo Jon.
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
TIME WARP TRIVIA Xrytryryrytry Photo:
360
STRATHFIELD
Page 6
HOMEBUSH @ SCHOOL
THE ROTARACT Club of Burwood, a group of volunteers aged between 18-30, are celebrating after a hugely successful Trivia Night, which they spent three months organising. No one-size Trivia Night fit all for this enterprising group as they wrote their own questions, rolled out publicity, appealed for raffle prizes and sold all the tickets for the August 15 event. “Burwood RSL kindly donated the space to allow for all proceeds to go to the Day of Difference,” said event organiser Samantha Taylor. All up, the club raised $3500 for the Day of Difference Foundation, which supports critically injured children
Page 7 Pages 8 & 9
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Page 10
Event organiser, Samantha Taylor with MC and Club President, Liam James.
An independent fortnightly community newspaper. 100% family owned and operated. Published by Scene Newspapers next issue: Wednesday 17 September 2014 deadline: Wednesday 10 September 2014 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 Journalist: Sami Jeong Accounts: Aileen Soria Art Director: Kevin Robinson Sales Director: Robin Eggleton Printed by: Rural Press Burwood Scene Daily Online: Webmaster: Cameron Jelinek 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.
and their families through a research program in partnership with Sydney University. The night came to a thrilling conclusion when there was a tie, taking the top two tables into a sudden death round. The winning table received a $500 cash prize, while the table finishing in last place received a bouquet of wooden spoons. “It is always fantastic to see what a group of young people can do when they work together” said club president Liam James. For more information on The Rotaract Club of Burwood see www. burwoodrotaract.org
SUNDAY – 7 & 21 SEPTEMBER
Home a is for Leich
9.00am to 1.00pm Cintra Park (Car Park) Off Crane St, Concord
W podiatry inc
www.concordfarmersmarket.com.au Follow @ConcordMarkets
ROTARY CLUB OF CONCORD
Come and Meet
ADVERTISEMENT
Charles Casusce Member for Strathfield
OPENING TIMES to meeting you on Sa forward I look HAYMARKETthe CroydFLEMINGTON on Park shops betwee 9-13 Hay St, Haymarket NSW
Austin Ave, Homebush West NSW
FRIDAY 9.00AM-5.00PM If you aren’t able to make it on the day, please feel free to visit10.00AM-4.30PM me at my Office: Shop 1, 54
Fax: (02)TO 9747 6054 | Email: strathfield@parliament.nsw.gov.au Web: charlescasuscelli.com.au SATURDAY FRESH FOOD | 6.00AM-2.00PM WEDNESDAY SUNDAY SUNDAY 9.00AM-4.30PM & PUBLIC HOLIDAY MONDAYS Authorised by Charles Casuscelli RFD MP. This advertisement was produced using pa
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News
27 August 2014
Women’s refuge crisis LAST YEAR Burwood Police received almost 900 domestic violence related calls, with more than a quarter of the cases recorded as involving assault – an increase of nine percent from the previous year. Under the NSW Government’s Going Home, Staying Home reforms, funding is no longer directly provided to small organisations such as specialist shelters for women and children. Instead, they are required to tender for services in competition with bigger agencies. Women-only homelessness services and opposition parties have expressed concern that the government has effectively redirected funding away from refuges that specialise in dealing with victims of domestic violence, into general services for men and women. SOS Women’s Services was set up to lead a campaign to stop the closure of inner city women’s refuges. The group grabbed the state’s attention with a petition signed by over 14,000 people opposed to the Going Home, Staying Home changes,
which was presented to the NSW Labor Opposition on the steps of NSW Parliament on August 12.
Deputy Opposition Leader and Member for Canterbury Linda Burney is one of many Labor MPs and candidates who have worked with SOS Women’s Services to stand against the funding cuts. Ms Burney said meeting with staff and clients at specialist services has made it clear that the changes “are hitting hard right across the state.” “Women who have been really traumatised and brutalised over a long period of time will not go into homeless services where there are men. They are just too fearful,” Linda Burney said. “The Lillian Howell Project over in Erskineville is going to be closed. It provides beds for nine girls, all of whom are coming from situations that would horrify anyone,” she said. “These kids need counseling, they need medical attention, they need to get back to school, all of which a specialised service can provide.”
Under the NSW Government’s new funding arrangements announced in June, over 80 specialist providers across the state have not had their funding renewed. Senior Constable John Tikisci, Crime Prevention Officer at Burwood, who is part of the Inner West Domestic Violence Liaison Committee said it’s been harder to find appropriate shelter for victims of domestic violence in the last few weeks. “I was on the phone for nearly three hours trying to place a woman who was brutally beaten,” he said. Constable Tikisci said the period after a woman reports domestic violence while awaiting the court hearing, is the critical time for her to have access to safe accommodation. The NSW Government initiated a review of its controversial reforms to the state’s homelessness services following the community backlash. A spokesperson for the Department of Family and Community Services said the review is “part of the normal processes of program management.”
“The post-implementation review will be undertaken in partnership between FACS and key stakeholder groups that have been involved throughout the development of the GHSH reforms - Homelessness NSW, Domestic Violence NSW (DV NSW), Yfoundations and the Council of Social Ser vice of NSW,” the spokesperson said. The NSW Ombudsman will oversee the review process. Roxanne McMurray, spokeswoman for SOS Women’s Services, welcomed the announcement of a review, “as there have been many problems with this process.”
M4 widening information sessions THE M4 widening Stage One Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the WestConnex 33km motorway has been released by the NSW and Federal Governments and will be on display for 30 days during which time a series of information sessions, public displays and drop-in sessions have begun this week with Parramatta on August 25, then Newington, Granville, Strathfield and Auburn. Stage One will include a widened M4 between Parramatta and Homebush, ramp improvements, including an upgrade to the eastbound on-ramp from James Ruse Drive to the M4 and a new on-ramp from Hill Road to the M4 eastbound. Public submissions will be accepted until September 12. Assessment is underway with four companies shortlisted for construction of the M4 widening having submitted their tenders. The state government expects that construction will start early next year. “Pending approval, the design and construct contract for the M4 widening would be awarded late this year,” Mr Gay said. A separate EIS process will be carried out next year for the tunnel
INVITATION Sanku Sthabanam (FOUNDATION FESTIVAL)
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 7 10:30am - 11:30am
SRI KARPHAGA VINAYAGAR TEMPLE 123 The Crescent, Homebush West
We cordially invite you to please join us for the honorable Sri Karphaga Vinayagar temple’s Sanku Sthabamanam which is the celebration of laying the foundation for our new building. We kindly ask you to participate in this event and provide any well-wishing donations if possible to make this event a success. We thank you in advance for your support.
Sri Karphaga Vinayagar Temple Aathinam
M4 Widening environmental assessment Widening the M4 Motorway between Church Street, Parramatta and Homebush Bay Drive, Homebush will improve access and provide more reliable journeys. The M4 Widening Environmental Impact Statement is now on exhibition at local council offices and on the website below. The community is welcome to drop-in to any of the project information sessions listed below: Granville Town Hall Wednesday 27 August, 3pm to 6pm 10 Carlton Street, Granville
to be built under Parramatta Road – the M4 East. Remaining M4 Widening EIS drop-in community information sessions… Granville Town Hall Wednesday 27 August, 3pm to 6pm 10 Carlton Street, Granville Strathfield Library Monday 1 September, 11am to 1pm 65 Rochester Street, Homebush Auburn Centre for Community Saturday 6 September, 10am to 1pm 44A Macquarie Road, Auburn
PROMO
TION
Formal written submissions with project number SSI 13_6148 can be submitted online at www. majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au or by post addressed to: Department of Planning and Environment GPO Box 39 Sydney NSW 2001
Strathfield Library Monday 1 September, 11am to 1pm 65 Rochester Street, Homebush Auburn Centre for Community Saturday 6 September, 10am to 1pm 44A Macquarie Road, Auburn Formal written submissions with project number SSI 6148 can be sent to the Department of Planning and Environment, GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001 or submitted online at www.majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au by Friday 12 September 2014.
Submissions close on Friday 12 September 2014. See www.westconnex.com.au for more project information, including in eight community languages.
For more information call 1300 660 248
Don’t miss our Major Draw for your chance to WIN a $20,000 South Pacific Cruise!* Drawn tonight at 9.00pm *Terms & conditions apply. See Club Reception for details. Authorised under NSW Permit Number LTPS/14/03626. Prize drawn Wednesday 27 August at 9.00pm.
Church Street, Lidcombe Phone 8745 6100 Check out what’s on at
www.dooleys.com
N45674
by Saimi Jeong
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news YOUR News
27 August 2014
M AY O R ’ S M E S S A G E
FROM BURWOOD COUNCIL
Better access to Croydon Station
Follow me on Twitter: @johnfaker
A
fter eight years of fighting for better access to Croydon Station, I am pleased to advise that major upgrades have been announced including a new concourse and three lifts at the station. As someone who has lived in Croydon my whole life, I know how important better access to our train station is for seniors, parents with prams, and those with a disability. I would like to thank local residents who signed our petition and helped us lobby the State Government for these much needed upgrades. This victory would not have been possible without your help.
While we have achieved a lot, our fight is not yet over. We need these long-overdue improvements as soon as possible. The Minister for Transport needs to confirm a date for the start of the major upgrades so that this does not become a just another broken election promise. I will fight for the local community to be consulted on all aspects of the proposal to ensure that it is in keeping with the heritage character of The Strand and Malvern Hill estate. Please check Council’s website, Facebook or Twitter page for the latest news on this matter.
September is dementia awareness month J
oin us at the Burwood Library and Community Hub for an author talk on ‘Don’t Give Me Eggs That Bounce: 118 cracking recipes for people with Alzheimer’s’. This ground breaking cookbook celebrates the dignity of older people, people with dementia and those who have eating difficulties by offering nutritious, delicious food across a range of dietary needs.
Mayor Faker speaks with a resident at Fitzroy St
A new roundabout for dangerous black spot in Croydon
P
Date: Thursday 4 September 2014 Time: 10.00am - 12.00pm
edestrians and motorists driving through Croydon will have a safer route on their way to work or school with the construction of a new roundabout at the Brady and Fitzroy Street intersection.
Venue: Burwood Library and Community Hub
C R J O H N FA K E R (Mayor) 9911 9916 mayor@burwood.nsw.gov.au C R TO N Y D O U E I H I
0437 970 499 tony.doueihi@burwood.nsw.gov.au
C R S A L LY D E A N S
0424 022 627 sally.deans@burwood.nsw.gov.au
C R L E S L E Y F U R N E AU X - CO O K
C R J U S T I N TAU N TO N
0408 227 826 lesley.furneaux-cook@burwood.nsw. gov.au
0488 083 108 justin.taunton@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR GEORGE MANNAH
0425 691 838 ernest.wong@burwood.nsw.gov.au
0448 133 396 george.mannah@burwood.nsw.gov. au
CR ERNEST WONG
Burwood Council, Level 2, 1–17 Elsie Street, Burwood NSW 2134
9911 9911 www.burwood.nsw.gov.au
Cost: FREE
MEETINGS
C O N TA C T S
The new roundabout is scheduled to be complete by mid 2015 and is partially funded under the Federal Black Spot programme which aims to increase safety at busy intersections.
Council Meeting – 25 August 2014 at 6pm in Council Chambers
27 August 2014
GRAB your cape and mask and head down to Burwood Festival on Sunday, 21 September as teen heart-throbs The Collective entertain a long list of superheroes to celebrate the 30th annual Burwood Festival, the largest annual free community event in the Inner West. All your favourite superheroes will assemble at the Hero Headquarters in Burwood Park including the Marvel Avengers and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, where you can get up close to the Batmobile and make all the contraptions you need to be your very own hero at the Superhero Workshop. The main stage will be a hive of activity with X-Factor star Mis Joelle and boy-band The Collective headlining a jam-packed entertainment program. There’ll be thrilling rides and farmyard animals for the family, award winning food stalls with cuisine from around the world, and goodie bags to top it all off. The famous Classic Car Show will be displaying the best vintage cars from around Australia. Festival-goers should head to Facebook, Tweet @BurwoodFestival for more information.
News
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Teen heart-throbs The Collective team up with superhero favourites at the BURWOOD FESTIVAL
Headlining Burwood Festival is boy-band The Collective
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MONTHLY COMMUNITY NEWS
27 August 2014
Kiss MS away and have a ball
MONTHLY COMMUNITY NEWS
TRISH Multiple Sclerosis Research Foundation is answering the call to raise vital funds for multiple sclerosis (MS) research, announcing its highly anticipated annual fundraising Ball will take place on Saturday, 13 September at the Hilton Grand Ballroom in Sydney. Chief Political Reporter for Sky News, Kieran Gilbert, will host the “Kiss MS Away” themed Ball. Entertainment will feature a pro bono performance from world-renowned concert pianist Simon Tedeschi, who is one of Australia’s most renowned and sought-after pianists. He has been awarded several prestigious prizes including first prize in the Keyboard division
of the Royal Overseas League Competition (UK), Symphony Australia’s Young Performer of the Year Award, and the Legacy Award from the Creativity Foundation (USA). Simon has performed in major concert halls throughout Europe, North America and Asia, and for world leaders such as George W. Bush, Vladimir Putin, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama. Simon also played the hands of acclaimed pianist David Helfgott for the Oscar-winning film Shine, directed by Scott Hicks. Also performing is acclaimed soprano Toni Powell, 5-piece band Hit Machine, and Kambala’s Chamber Orchestra. Trish Foundation Chairman
Carol Langsford says the Ball is one of the Foundation’s most important events of the year. “The funds raised from our annual Ball are essential to helping us continue our work. Having raised over $3 million for MS research, the Trish Foundation continues to make a significant contribution to MS research in Australia, as well as the worldwide effort. We are very proud to be contributing to research projects resulting in ground-breaking findings that are moving ever closer to unlocking the mysteries of MS to find a cure.” Strathfield’s Niall King OAM, whose wife Carole suffers from MS, has raised over $400,000 for the Foundation and continues to Concert pianist Simon Tedeschi will perform at the major MS fundraiser Kiss MS Away Ball.
support the Trish Foundation as a board member. “We are unique to many other charities as all funds we raise from the ‘Kiss MS Away’ Ball – and indeed all our fundraising efforts – go directly to research,” Niall says. Each day in Australia, five more people will be told they
have MS - sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters - all facing an uncertain future. MS doesn’t discriminate and alarmingly, the prevalence in young people, including children, is increasing. Ongoing funds for research are critical to stopping MS in its tracks. Tickets for the ‘Kiss Goodbye
to MS’ Ball include pre-dinner drinks, a three-course meal and beverages, plus all entertainment. Corporate Tables are also available including sponsorship benefits. For tickets call 8021 9969, email info@trishmsresearch.org. au or visit www.trishmsresearch. org.au
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Guest speaker: Bronwyn Williams
But it’s more than just a great rate, a home loan from Homebush Community Bank® Branch is bigger than that - and comes with a range of big benefits, discounts and savings. Drop into your nearest branch at 27 Rochester Street, Homebush or phone 9764 6616 and compare our fixed rate home loans.
Wednesday 10 September 6.30pm – 8.30pm Club Burwood, 97 Burwood Road Burwood
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ADVERTISEMENT
Come and Mee t
Charles Casuscelli RFD MP Member for Strathfield
As a local grassroots Member of Parliament I am always keen to hear of issues that affect my local constituents. I will be holding a series of street stalls throughout the year in all parts of the electorate. Please feel free to contact my office. Please contact my office or come in: Shop 1/54 Burwood Road, Burwood NSW 2134 | P (02) 9747 1711 | F (02) 9747 6054 | E strathfield@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Charles Casuscelli RFD MP. This advertisement was produced using parliamentary entitlements.
27 August 2014
THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND DINE
7
Starlight star bright petals & posies Gif ts for Dad on Fathers day!
More than a florist
For the Dad who has everything pre-order a gourmet hamper from $50 Open 8.30am-12noon Fathers Day Sunday 7 September
START YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EARLY! Shop 1, 31 Rochester St Homebush
Ph: 9764 6876 fax: 9764 6428
Come in and be surprised!
Lorraine Briggs, David Chamberlain, Shannon Chand, Prinita Thevarajah and Piggy-Prashan Thevarajah.
MANY Homebush businesses pitched in with the Bendigo Bank Homebush branch community fundraiser for the Starlight Children foundation recently. Over $600 was raised with a sausage sizzle and cupcakes on Rochester Street.
Businesses that supported the initiative were Rochester Street Quality Meats, Bar Cortona, Homebush Fruit Bowl, Homebush Newsagency, Wok Inn, Jessie’s Den, Kammadhenu and IGA Homebush.
COMMUNITY GRANTS OPEN
STRATHFIELD Council is calling for applications for local-based community groups seeking financial assistance for events planned in Strathfield Council area. Community groups may apply for up to $4,000 of financial assistance by way of cash support or in-kind assistance for an event held in Strathfield in the 2014/15 financial year. Applications close Friday 29 August 2014.
EVERY TAKEAWAY ORDER OVER $60
SPECIAL LUNCH
Will receive one serve of Spring Rolls
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(meal value) Not including Special Lunch
Tue to Thurs: 11.30am - 2.30pm 5.00pm - 9.30pm Fri and Sat: 11.30am - 2.30pm 5.00pm - 10.00pm Sunday: 5.00pm - 9.30pm
$9.50
HOME DELIVERY Minimum Order $30 (meal value) Delivery charges may apply in some areas
Variety is the spice of life by Belinda Noonan
WHERE many small shopping villages suffer with minimal parking or a variety of shopping experiences, the Rochester Street precinct is blossoming with new traders and increased dining. What makes a shopping strip successful is a strong mix of businesses where customers can easily access the newsagent, chemist, gifts, the butcher, a supermarket, hair and beauty, business services, the bank and have a choice for that quick coffee or longer lunch. Homebush Shopping Village ticks all the boxes for variety in a compact area and if you avoid school pick up time, a parking spot is nearly always available as shoppers duck in and out from the strip.
Newly opened is the already popular Jessie’s Den on Burlington Road and soon to open beside Café 41 on Rochester Street is Anar Charcoal Chicken, which will be Roger Boustany’s second outlet joining his highly successful Croydon Park business. Business owners are reporting steady business and highlight “better and personal service” as key to success. “We know our customers, provide high quality product and better service than you get in big shopping malls,” said one trader. Strathfield Council are planning a trial of two unmanned CCTV cameras for the Homebush West shopping area to combat graffiti and some Homebush traders have suggested that it’s time that the Rochester Street precinct was included in the trial following three recent opportunistic small crimes involving wilful damage and cash robberies.
Advertise your business in Burwood Scene Our readers are your customers covering four municipalities Call: 9715 2700 or email: ads@burwoodscene.com.au
www.burwoodscene.com.au
Fe b SENIORS SPECIALS Monday and Tuesday only
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Simply show your seniors card to get your discount on all eat in meals.
41 Rochester Street, Homebush Reservations 9746 6495
Sun, Mon, Tuesday 7.30 to 5.00pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7.30 to 9.30pm Visa, Mastercard and Eftpos accepted
The Beauty Shoppe Professional, friendly, personal service Specialising in Permanent Waves & Colour Correction ent Hairdressing By Appointm Part of the local community since 1983.
44 Burlington Rd, Homebush 2140 | Phone: 9746 5312
BACK TO SCHOOL 8
27 August 2014
@ SCHOOL NT Minister comes to Meriden Students speak up over Reid BESS PRICE, Minister for Women’s Policy and Community Services for the Northern Territory is the keynote speaker for Meriden’s forum next month. The forum, entitled Getting to Year 12 - Support for Indigenous girls throughout high school, will be held on 4 September at Meriden School’s Blackman Auditorium
Mrs Price will be joined by a panel of Indigenous women and educators for the forum including Karla Grant, presenter of SBS Living Black, Zania Liddle, former principal of Ti Tree School Northern Territory, and Tanisha Stanton, Program Manager for mentoring program, AIME. The forum is hosted by a committee of past graduates of Meriden School
who each share a passion for education and social justice. All proceeds from ticket sales for the evening will be directed to the Meriden Indigenous Bursary. Tickets for the forum are $20 adults, $15 university students and $10 school students. To book visit www.trybooking. com/FLJF
@ SCHOOL
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
HSC BIOLOGY TUTOR
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Joe Merlino
Over 22 years teaching experience Head Science teacher Government and non-government schools Board of Studies (BOS) for 10 years Senior HSC marker Science exam writer
PLC Sydney student, Gabriella Lubrano with the Member for Reid, Craig Laundy.
THIRTY-THREE student leaders from twelve secondary schools across the Reid electorate set the record straight to politicians at this month’s Reid Student Advisory Panel. Launched at St. Patrick’s College in Strathfield by Member for Reid, Craig Laundy, the event drew the attendance of nearly every secondary school within the area. “The Reid Student Advisory Panel is a unique opportunity for students to regularly discuss the
Back To Schoo l 2015 HSC BIOLOGY CLASSES BEGIN SOON Mon 29 September 6.30pm-8.30pm Tues 30 September 6.30pm-8.30pm Wed 1 October 6.30pm-8.30pm
prevalent issues affecting the youth of today in an open and supportive environment,” said Mr Laundy. “Over the coming mont hs, I w i l l b e encouraging the panel to work collaboratively and formulate fresh ideas for tackling these challenges, which can be developed into workable initiatives and eventually rolled out into schools and communities throughout Reid.” Schools that attended the event included Al
Faisal College, Auburn Girls High, Concord High, Domremy College, Meriden, PLC Sydney, Rosebank, Santa Sabina, St. Patrick’s, Strathfield Girls High, The McDonald College and Trinity College, Auburn. Mr Laundy hopes to extend the reach of the panel in the future. “I will be inviting high profile corporate and political figures to speak about the challenges they faced on their rise to the top, and explain how they overcame them,” he added.
Back To Schoo l
52A BURWOOD ROAD, BURWOOD Ph: 0411 392 495 • Email: hscbiology@bigpond.com
Northern Territory Minister Bess Price will speak at a Meriden forum.
Meriden girls make their marks. Open Morning for new enrolments – Prep to Year 12 Thursday, 11 September 9am – 11am Tour the School and meet our Principal, teachers and students 11am
Meet our Olympus team and learn about opportunities for elite sports girls at Meriden and beyond, including tertiary study and sport options
Call 9752 9444 to register
10-12 Redmyre Road, STRATHFIELD 2135 Telephone 61 2 9752 9444 | Email enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au
@ SCHOOL
27 August 2014
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AROUND THE WORLD Students and Navy band together FOR BOOK WEEK THE Ashfield-based student On the Block Band were in the finest company last week when they joined forces with the Royal Australian Navy Band to entertain the Bethlehem, De La Salle College and St. Vincent’s Primary School students. The 45 minute performance covered Disney classics and ever-popular Queen standards, which brought the young audience to its feet and ready to dance. On the Block Band is an initiative of the three Ashfield Catholic schools, created to provide students with the opportunity to learn an instrument and perform. “The performance was simply magical and it was so rewarding to see the students in the audience respond so positively”. “It was also an amazing experience for the members of our bands, some of
whom have only been studying their instrument for a short period of time, to perform alongside professional musicians,” said Chris Howes, Instrumental Program Director for the On the Block Band. “Music, as an art, is so beneficial to students as it stimulates creativity, academic excellence and engenders confidence. “The students involved in the band program enjoy the social interaction and teaches them important skills of concentration and persistence, all of which they can apply to other areas of their life,” he added. On the Block Band and an adult community On the Block Band regularly perform at school and community functions.
Every country, every continent for Holy Innocent’s students, Isaac Tannous, Tara Clark, Rutva Molkar, Michael Katakis, David Martiradonna, Lucia Gionta and Principal Deborah Bestulic.
STUDENTS and staff pulled out all the stops for a fun-filled Book Week at Holy Innocent’s Primary School in Croydon. To celebrate culture and this year’s ‘Connect to Reading’, children from Kindergarten to Year 6 and every teacher participated in an
international dress-up depicting different countries or continents. “When we read we are able to connect to other cultures and their people, and because our school community is so diverse here at Holy Innocents’ we are celebrating Book Week by sharing our cultural
background and learning about different countries,” explained teacher Daniela Elhindi. The short-listed 2014 Children’s Book of Year include The Swap by Jan Ormerod, A Very Unusual Pursuit by Catherin Jinks and Jeremy by Chris Faulkner and Danny Snell.
Members of the Royal Australian Navy Band with Bethlehem student Georgia Stillianesis.
Bethlehem College - so much more th a n j u s t a s c h o 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
@ SCHOOL 10
27 August 2014
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS TENNIS FOR LIFE Sail away SCHO on theOL HOLID AYS Parramatta River Back To Schoo l IT’S VERY likely that youngsters who take up tennis, even by attending a school holiday camp or two, will stay in the sport on a recreational basis for many decades to come. Very few sports can be played on a life-ling basis, but tennis is one says Inner West Tennis Academy coach Shaun Max. “How many sports can children start as young as five play into their retirement?” Shaun asked. “Parents make a choice on where to spend their money and their child’s time and we believe learning tennis is a life-long skill that is beneficial on so many levels.” “This is a game that improves both fine and gross motor control skills and as well as the fitness benefit – tennis teaches children to take responsibility for their own actions and improves their ability to make good decisions under pressure.”
SPRING heralds the beginning of the sailing season for the Concord and Ryde Sailing Club (CRSC) and kicks off its 70th year sailing along the Parramatta River on Saturday, September 6 at its family friendly club at Kissing Point Park in Putney. Dinghies come in all sizes and sail each Saturday with beginners to state and national champions.
The club also has an active Cadet fleet and popular learn to sail program, utilising its fleet of Optimist Dinghies as part of its Yachting Australia accredited “Discover Sailing” centre, which are ideal for teaching children 9 years and over to sail, and begin on September 6. Family learn to sail classes begin on September 9. The club also runs a four-day School Holiday Course from Tuesday, September 30 to October 4. Call David Loring 9636 4370 as places fill up quickly.
Watching the Federers and Nadals in action and how they respond to their fans is certainly inspiring and provides good role models. “On the elite side, tennis players are some of the best paid professional sports people in the world and if you happen to be very good at tennis, the rewards are substantial, but that’s for the top few. “The day-to-day advantages of this sport I love so much are also the social aspect of meeting other people from a diverse cross section of society and the networking in a happy atmosphere.” “It’s a hell of a lot of fun,” Shaun said. The Inner West Tennis Academy at Strathfield Sports Club hold school holiday camps with a free lunch every day. The next camp begins on Monday, September 22.
Back To Schoo l Burwood Festival 21 September
Hanna and her dad going for a sail.
Strathfield Sports Club Ask us about Private & Semi-Private tennis lessons (Mon to Sat) After school and Saturday morning kids groups Adult Beginner & Intermediate Groups 24 hour restring service See our fully stocked pro shop
School Holiday Camps Camp 1: 9am-3pm Monday 22nd to Friday 26th of September 2014 $180/week or $50/day
Camp 2: 9am - 3pm Monday 29th September to Friday 3rd October 2014 $180/week or $50/day
$10 discount off the full week price for each additional sibling
Free lunch provided every day
4a Lyons Street, Strathfield (Parking via Morwick St) 5 mins walk from Strathfield Train Station Call Alex 0417 432 757 or Shaun 0412 745 557 coaching@strathfieldsportsclub.com.au
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News
27 August 2014
11
Dedication remembered 100 years on AS AUSTRALIA prepares for next year’s ANZAC centenary, fascinating insights into “the war to end all wars” are being dramatised on our screens, including the six-part ANZAC Girls on the ABC, which follows the true stories of six Australian nurses serving at Gallipoli and the Western Front. One of the featured nurses in the series is Sr. Elsie Sheppard Cook, who is one of four women on the Burwood War Memorial. Elsie Sheppard was the daughter of 1902 Burwood Mayor, Alderman Michael Sheppard. Elsie married Syd Cook, the son of Australia’s sixth Prime Minister Sir Joseph Cook who, in 1913 threw his weight behind Australia’s involvement in WWI. The ANZAC Girls was the catalyst for Burwood District Historical Society member Jon Breen to look further into local connections.
“Sister Sheppard was to have been excluded from the Australian Army Nursing Service because she had falsely enlisted as a single woman. However the Gallipoli Landing intervened and she was able to remain,” Jon said. “Burwood has so many stories.” Jon is planning to travel to Port Moresby and Rabaul in mid-September to commemorate the Centenary of the Battle of Bita Paka. His interest is personal, as this was where the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force (ANMEF) ordered by Defence Minister Senator Millen and led by Colonel William Holmes landed. “Holmes was the then Secretary of the Water Board (now Sydney Water) whereas years later I was Engineer/Historian for almost forty years,” Jon said. The first Australian killed in WW1 was Able Seaman Williams who died on 11 September 1914,(another 9/11) and next day the Medical Officer Captain Brian Antill Pockley also died. These deaths occurred approximately seven months before the Gallipoli landing. Major General Holmes was killed in France in 1917, whilst escorting the Premier of NSW, Robert Holman in reviewing the troops. Another of the four Burwood War Memorial sisters was Annie Constance Frost, of Gordon Street Burwood who became Matron of the CWA Hospital at Gulargambone in 1934.
“As Episode 1 of the show advanced, the penny started to drop. Confirmation by torchlight on the War Memorial at Burwood Park showed Sister E (Elsie) Sheppard, whose father had opened the Rotunda in 1902,” Jon explained. “I had been told about a wedding reception at “Kassala,” Comer Street by Ashfield Historical Society,” he said. The Sheppard family lived at ‘Kassala’ - the home which later became Christian Brothers and now Southern Cross College. Sister Sheppard had a Military Wedding on Saturday 19 September 1914 to George Sydney (Syd) Cook, son of Joseph Cook who had been Prime Minister when WW1 was declared on 4 August 1914. Elsie Sheppard was born at Darlinghurst and became a nurse, enlisting on February 5, 1916 in Cairo, Egypt when she was 24 years old. Her husband Syd was wounded twice during the war. She resigned on June 29, 1916 to accept service with the Red Cross Society.
1902: When rats were a problem IN RESEARCHING Sr Elsie Sheppard/Cook, various bits of information popped up, and the below from a Sydney Morning Herald report on March 2, 1902 reporting on a public meeting in Burwood is worth sharing. “A large and enthusiastic public meeting was held at the Burwood Council-chambers last night under the presidency of the Mayor (Alderman M. Sheppard). All the aldermen attended, and large numbers of people were unable to gain admission. The purpose of the meeting was to arrange the campaign against rats to-morrow. The Mayor explained what had already been done by the council. The borough was mapped out into sections, and volunteers were appointed to assist the council’s men in distributing rat poison to-morrow morning, while other bands of aldermen and residents volunteered to go around to explain, wherever desired, how it should be used, and see that it was used.”
World War I exhibition open THE Crisis 1914! The call to arms exhibition, which uncovers the political events that led to Australia’s involvement in the First World War, was opened on August 13 at Old Parliament House in Canberra by Sir Peter Cosgrove, Governor-General. “Australia was suffering from a long drought and in the middle of an election, however we still went willingly – even enthusiastically – into the war,” said Exhibition Curator, Ms Libby Stewart. Among the items significant to Australian political history is the original cabinet table used in 1914. “Many life or death decisions during the First World War were made around that cabinet table, decisions that would shape our identity as a nation,” said Daryl Karp, Director of the Museum
of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House. Crisis 1914! The call to arms will run until August 2015. The exhibition is a contribution by the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House to the Anzac Centenary, marking 100 years of service by Australian servicemen and women, and the experience of war by all Australians. Old Parliament House is open to the public daily from 9am–5pm.
WWI Nurse Sister Elsie Sheppard (Cook)
Family history lives on AUGUST is the time to delve deep into the past as part of National Family History Month. The NSW State Records has the largest collection of family history with records dating back to the First Fleet. T h e c o m mu n i t y c a n access resources including immigration, land, court, school and Indigenous records, with many archives now accessible online. The State Records Centre at Kingswood, which is the State’s largest repository, holds more than 500 kilometres of paper records including maps, plans, volumes and files.
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.
ABC’s ANZAC Girls on Sunday night 9.30pm. Elsie Cook played by Laura Brent. Photo: Matt Nettheim.
by Belinda Noonan | assisted by Jon Breen (Burwood District Historical Society)
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NEWS
Abbott talks up Team Australia by Saimi Jeong
DIVERSITY and unity were the buzzwords in Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s address to ethnic communities last week at Strathfield Town Hall in a whistle-stop visit to the Reid electorate, which is one of the most culturally diverse communities in Australia. “Coming to Australia means you are joining our team,” he told around fifty representatives from multicultural news media. But the Prime Minister was quick to suggest that not all Australians
are part of “the best team on earth,” when he stressed the importance of protecting “ourselves against the potential for terrorist attacks”. Mr Abbott went back fifteen years, when allegedly approximately twenty Australians were “engaged in domestic terrorist activities”. He said there are currently 150 Australians involved, “in one way or another,” with terrorist organisations but he did not provide further details as to the nature of that involvement. “It is in the absolute interest of every single community in this country to expose and counter any potential for home-grown terrorism.
“Because if there is one thing that could damage the rich and strong social fabric of our country, it would be a mass casualty event.” It could be argued that spreading fear in the community by making the threat of terrorism loom larger than has been proven is another way to damage that social fabric. Nevertheless, Mr Abbott urged Australians to “maintain a very strong unity in the midst of diversity.” “It’s this that makes our country such a splendid example to other countries which are perhaps less advanced on that road of building unity and rich diversity,” he said.
Science is fun
Science Week for Retaval’s young students.
MONSTER toothpaste, lava lamps, vinegar volcanoes were some of the exciting experiments at the Science Funfest at Retaval Infants School in Belfield during National Science Week.
The two-day festival, opened by Strathfield mayor, Cr Daniel Bott, was the culmination of Retaval’s term-long spotlight on science for students aged four to seven who demonstrated their favourite
experiment to visitors from nearby schools. Using ingredients found around the house they discovered fun facts about chemical reactions, the growth of mung beans, and blood plasma beneath a microscope.
27 August 2014
Just sayin’… By Mitchell Jordan
Mitchell@scenenewspapers.com.au
Blinky back from the brink ANY GEN Y Australian worth their Vegemite must surely have been delighted at this month’s news that a Blinky Bill movie is coming to the big screen. There is no way of being polite about Australian cinema. It can be an embarrassment. Most of us have trouble remembering the last time we saw a locally made film and, with the exception of 2012’s The Sapphires, there’s a pretty good reason why. But Blinky the lovable koala may well change all of that. His appeal transcends age, and even nationality. With big names like Ryan Kwanten already on board, the movie has the potential to do many things, though it’s my hope that Australians will not only return to the cinema in droves but head to the bookstore or library and discover the work of Dorothy Wall. After all, it was New Zealandborn Wall who created Blinky and published three books of his adventures before animation icon Yoram Gross made the koala more accessible by producing the stories for both television and cinema. Three years ago I visited Junibacken, a children’s museum in Stockholm which honours and brings to life the work of author
Astrid Lingdren, creator of the world’s most-loved wild child, Pippi Longstocking. Considering that two Australian writers, Sonya Hartnett and Shaun Tan, have both won the Astrid Lingdren Award (worth close to one million dollars), it struck me as strange that there was nowhere like Junibacken in Australia. From Dot and the Kangaroo to the pudding who could talk, Australian children’s literature has a smorgasbord of characters that can – and should – be showcased. Contemporary writers like Emily Rodda, Jackie French and Margaret Wild do a great, if grossly undervalued, service to our younger generation, though I despair at how many Australian books are out of print and struggling to compete with overseas competition. Harry Potter showed that children all over the world still have an avaricious appetite for the written word, so why are we ignoring the talent in our own backyard? Just like our unique, if somewhat odd, animals, Blinky’s paper mates are what make our country so special. Mitchell Jordan is Deputy Editor at Burwood Scene.
Celebrations for VIEW Club
Does your child suffer from… Growing pains Stomach pains Pigeon toed/Out toed feet Balance issues Falling over Foot and leg pains Flatfeet Heel pain Knee pain Back pain Bunions
We also treat diabetics, ingrown toenails, corns and calluses
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VIEW Club celebrates 53 years. Gloria Walter (National Councillor), Lynn Gerstenberg (National Vice-President), Clare Hall (President) and Valeska Klose (Secretary).
THE Concord West VIEW Club celebrated its 53rd birthday in July with a Black and White theme lunch. Through the Smith Family, VIEW members contribute significant fundraising and volunteering support to help Australian children in need to reach their full potential through education. VIEW Clubs across Australia now support more than 1,000 students.
It is the only national women’s organisation solely focused on supporting and advocating for young Australians in need. Concord West VIEW Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month at Burwood RSL. For any enquiries please call Valeska Klose on 9747 5262.
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2700
News
27 August 2014
Resident irate over Burwood rates ONE Burwood property owner is up in arms over rates and a council which he believes “needs to be more efficient at what it does.” Lidcombe resident Victor Lakomy recently wrote to the general manager of Burwood Council to express his outrage. “I would like an explanation why Burwood Council’s rates are so much higher than other surrounding councils, even prior to the SRV recently granted,” he asked. Mr Lakomy said that his property in Burwood is only 66 per cent of the land area and frontage size of his Lidcombe property. However, the rates he paid in Burwood for the 2014 financial year came to a total of $1355 compared to the
$995.45 paid for his property in Lidcombe. “I get more services from Auburn Council than I do from Burwood Council,” Mr Lakomy wrote, citing numerous issues such as regular mowing and maintenance of nature strips and footpath renewals along with a free community bus provided by Auburn Council. In a response obtained by Burwood Scene, Burwood Council’s general manager, Michael McMahon explained that council’s rates are calculated on a combination of the land value and a fixed amount per property. “It is difficult to provide a direct comparison on rates with neighbouring councils based on
land area alone,” Mr McMahon wrote. “In recent years, Burwood’s locality, public amenity, transport infrastructure and local schools have made it a desired destination for many people to call home. This had led to an increase in land value across the Local Government Area.” Burwood Council also has a rates and charges hardship assistance policy in place for those, including pensioners, who are experiencing hardship. To be eligible, a ratepayer must show that they are unable to pay because of reasons beyond their control or because paying by the due date would cause the person hardship.
13
FINALS TIME APPROACHING
Concord Burwood Wolves Under 12s with Wests Tigers Adam Blair, league great Paul Sironen and Curtis Sironen.
FOOTY is in full swing for the Inspirations sponsored Concord Burwood Wolves Div 2 Under
12s team who are playing for a grand final spot against Balmain PCYC – Blackmore on August
24. The finals will be played the following week on August 30.
THE release last month of the 918-page draft Productivity Commission report into child care and early childhood learning is being claimed as the first major review of the child care sector in twenty years by the Federal Government. Assistant Minister for Education Sussan Ley visited a Strathfield child care ANZAC Research Institute Medical Appeal facility to receive first hand feedback on the findings The ANZAC Research Institute has launched this public appeal to fund pre-clinical and recommendations from research and the proposed clinical trial of a new treatment for Acute Myeloid the Commission into Early Education and Care Leukaemia, in collaboration with the Haematology Department of Concord, Childhood (ECEC). Royal Prince Alfred and Westmead hospitals. Among the findings by the Commission was that how much families pay for ECEC varies to maximise value for the depending on their income, S OLUDonate T ION S ONLINE: to u r b an The NSW Government’s www.bendigobank.com.au/foundation/anzacresearch care use patterns and family size. community; Innovation congestion issues will be atcrowdsourcing IN PERSON: any Bendigo Bank “crowdsourced” by the NSW Initiative was launched this • O pen Ideas: allowing the However, for the vast majority BY POST: Send a cheque or money order topublic Homebush Community of families, subsidies from the to nominate areas Bank, Government in an aim to month, and from September Australian Government cover 27 Rochester Street, Homebush NSW 2140 will seek submissions on issues where a policy challenge exists harvest ideas from the wider more than half of their ECEC including how to reduce traffic and suggest possible solutions. fees. community. Call 9715 2700 or and create affordable housing. T he gove r n me nt h a s However, the report states There are any amount of email editor@burwoodscene.com.au Focus will be placed on four announced a competitive that the existing system is explanations online as to priority areas: selection process to identify what crowdsourcing means, • Congestion: reducing traffic solutions from private and complex and some families have difficulty understanding their and perhaps this one from in hot spots across Sydney’s non-government organisations. entitlements under the Child ‘dailycrowdsource.com’ sums roads; Crowdsourcing has been Care Benefit and the Child Care it up best – “Crowdsourcing is • Social Housing Assets: using used successfully in Toronto Rebate. Furthermore, the design using collective intelligence innovative financing solutions to reduce traffic delays, in the of these measures is resulting gathered from the public and to assist with replenishing the UK with the London Ventures in a declining proportion of using that information to social housing portfolio; program, and the US to direct assistance to lower income complete business-related tasks.” • O pen Data: fast-tracking private funding towards ‘green’ families who are least able to afford ECEC services. the release of open data housing projects. And it’s mostly online.
Also under scrutiny is the Jobs, Education and Training Child Care Fee Assistance program and the Special Child Care Benefit program that are described as “not well targeted and have attracted families unable to get low cost access to ECEC under other more targeted programs.” A prime recommendation is that the federal government “should combine the current Child Care Rebate, Child Care Benefit and the Jobs Education and Training Child Care Fee Assistance funding streams to support a single child based subsidy, to be known as the Early Care and Learning Subsidy (ECLS). ECLS would be available for children attending all mainstream approved ECEC services, whether they are centre-based or home-based.” “Flexible and available child care at a price mums and dads can afford is crucial for workforce participation in Western Sydney. Our families should be able to plan child care around their work life, not their work life around child care and, right now, that’s not happening in far too many cases,” Member for Reid Craig Laundy said. Minister Ley has called for public comment on the draft report.
“The Productivity Commission will now conduct a second phase of public feedback and input and I would encourage anyone with an interest in child care to get involved and have their say,” she said. “The cost of Child care shot up some 53% during six years of Labor Government putting fees out of reach for many working parents. That equates to an additional $75 a week or $3,500 a year,” Minister Ley said of Education Department figures from the September 2013 quarter, which show the average hourly rate for long day care was $7.65. The average hourly fee in the corresponding Sept quarter in 2007, when Labor took office was $5.00. Submissions to the Productivity Commission, preferably in electronic format, will be accepted until Friday, 5 September 2014. The final report will be prepared after submissions have been received and public hearings have been held, and will be forwarded to the Australian Government by October 31. See www.pc.gov.au/projects/ inquiry/childcare
Canada Bay Council opposes Medicare co-payment Child care feedback CANADA BAY Council will write to the Minister for Health and the Opposition to express Council’s disapproval of the Medicare GP co-payment following a motion raised by Greens Deputy Mayor Pauline Tyrell at a council meting on August 19. “Canada Bay Council needs
to speak out on this issue in support of local residents and GPs. This is a negative measure which would weaken the health services in our area and put more strain on Concord hospital,” Councillor Tyrrell said “For over 30 years Medicare has provided universal health coverage through the provision
of bulk billing services from general practitioners and free public hospital treatment. “The proposed introduction of a GP co-payment by the Federal Government represents a significant shift away from universal health care and towards a user-pays system,” Cr Tyrrell told the council meeting.
An answer to cancer – we need your support
What is crowdsourcing and what can be achieved
An answer to cancer – we need your support ANZAC Research Institute Medical Appeal The ANZAC Research Institute has launched this public appeal to fund pre-clinical research and the proposed clinical trial of a new treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, in collaboration with the Haematology Department of Concord, Royal Prince Alfred and Westmead hospitals.
Donate ONLINE: www.bendigobank.com.au/foundation/anzacresearch IN PERSON: at any Bendigo Bank BY POST: Send a cheque or money order to Homebush Community Bank, 27 Rochester Street, Homebush NSW 2140
Call 9715 2700 or email editor@burwoodscene.com.au
NEws
briefly
14
27 August 2014
PAY RATES EARLY AND WIN Burwood Council are offering a Rates Payment Incentive Scheme. For who pay their full year’s rates on or by 31 August, 2104 they will go into a draw to win one of four gift card prizes from $2,000 to $500. The winners will be drawn at the Burwood Spring Festival on Sunday, September 21. FREE COMIC CONVENTION Calling all comic book devotees. Mingle with the who’s who of comics including Sydney locals Sorab de Rio, Marcelo Baez, Julie Ditrich and Tim McEwan at Ashfield Council’s Comic Con-Versation on Saturday, 20 September from 4pm until 8pm at Ashfield Library. The event will feature two of Australia’s most highly respected graphic novelists; Melbourne-based author of The Silence and The Sacrifice, Bruce Mutard and Pat Grant, creator of highly-acclaimed best seller, Blue and 19 other graphic novelists. Workshops, panel discussions, sketching, live music by geek pop singer-songwriter Meri Amber, give aways and free refreshments are on offer. JUSTICES MEETING The next meeting for the New South Wales Justices Association Ashfield/Burwood branch will be held on Wednesday 17 September at 7.15 pm at Club Burwood R.S.L, 96 Shaftesbury Road, Burwood. During the meeting a Training Session will be conducted. All Justices of the Peace welcome and encouraged to attend. CARING FOR CARERS A Free information forum for carers will be held on September 16 from 10am until 12.30pm at Concord Library on Flavelle Street. Topics include Ergonomics and Caring presented by a physiotherapist and Self Care Tasks presented by an occupational therapist. A light lunch will be provided. Transport for Canada Bay residents on the Bayrider may be able to assist with transport. Mandarin interpreter available.
NO DUCKING THIS VITAL JOB THE restoration of the Cumberland Plain is one of the first Green Army projects for the federal government and will rehabilitate degraded sections of riparian vegetation and endangered ecological communities along Duck River at Auburn. The mission will focus on the removal of invasive exotic vine species, which are suppressing the remnant native riparian, and the planting of 2000 native provenance species. “Young people in the Reid electorate have the opportunity to join the Australian Government’s Green Army and become part of the largest environmental movement in Australia’s history,” Craig Laundy MP said. “The Green Army provides opportunities for young Australians aged 17-24 years to gain training and experience in environmental and heritage conservation fields while participating in projects that generate real benefits for the Australian environment.
progress. Until such time the INNER WEST residents are long-term future of communities motor registry will continue being asked for their opinion across NSW, including those in to operate as normal,” he on the NSW Government’s the Strathfield electorate.” said. The consultation process plan to unlock $20 billion Mr Casuscelli described in infrastructure funding by established through the the one-stop shop as “a new undertaking a long-term lease Department of Premier era of public sector customer of 49 per cent of the “poles and and Cabinet (DPC) will service.” provide information to NSW wires” network businesses. “This is a welcome As part of the NSW communities on the conditions initiative for local customers G ov e r n m e nt’s p l a n t o for partially leasing the assets and businesses alike to be “transform” the state, a and the strategic priorities of able to access extended discussion paper has been the Government and include services from the one released in what is the first step meetings with key stakeholders location. What’s also exciting of the consultation process and community groups across is the work done to put on specific issues or concerns the state and seek submissions more transactions so regarding investment the Rebuilding NSW on THE online FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND DINEpriorities and customers have more choice plan and the proposed partial the proposed partial lease of in how they transact with lease. the electricity networks. government,” he added. Interested parties are invited Member for Strathfield, Marrickville was the only Charles Casuscelli, described to make an initial submission other inner-west suburb the Rebuilding NSW project in response to the discussion mong the 10 selected for as “a once-in-a-generation paper by 19 September. Visit service centres. opportunity to secure the www.rebuilding.nsw.gov.au
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Duck River at Auburn is on the Green Army list
One-stop shop for Burwood Have your say on state of NSW
BURWOOD has been chosen as a new location for one of ten new Service NSW one-stop shops. The Ser vice NSW ADULT LEARNERS’ WEEK – SEPTEMBER 1 – 8 centres enable customers to THELearners’ FRIENDLY SHOP ANDundertake DINE800 transactions, Adult Week is onPLACE from 1 to 8TO September with a cartooning workshop at Haberfield Library on including applying for a birth September 1st from 1pm – 3pm or try your hand at certificate, a drivers’ licence, cryptic crosswords at Ashfield Studies Room in the a contractor licence, a Civic Centre on September 3 and 10 with Ralph Penglis Seniors’ Card or paying fines. as he shares his tips on how to unravel the riddles in Bur wo o d’s shop is a practical two part workshop aimed at beginners expected to be opened by and those wanting to revise their basic skills. Booking the end of the year said essential. Strathfield MP, Charles Casuscelli. MEET WITH ASHFIELD POLICE “Plans are now underway Ashfield Local Area Command is holding its third to find a suitable location Community Safety Precinct Committee (CSPC) meeting for the one-stop shop for the year on 10 September at 10am. The meetings including assessing whether allow police and the local community to meet on a the motor registry would be regular basis to allow discussions to take place on appropriate. We will keep crime prevention and local crime-related issues that customers advised as to affect the community. To RSVP, phone 9797 4050.
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“Participants will receive a Green Army allowance for the duration of their project and will also be supported to obtain Certificate I or II qualifications or other nationally endorsed skills to help them prepare for the workforce or improve their career opportunities. The Green Army was a key Coalition election commitment, and with $525 million budgeted over four years. It is one of the Government’s major environmental initiatives and will encourage practical, grassroots action to support local environment and heritage conservation projects across Australia while providing training to 15,000 young Australians by 2018. Young Australians interested in joining the Green Army can apply through the appointed Service Providers for each state and territory. Contact details for Service Providers are available from www. environment.gov.au/green-army
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NEWS
27 August 2014
All hands on the Asian Cup COME January next year, there won’t be a bigger sporting event in Australia than the Asian Cup, which will attract the best 16 football nations across Asia including FIFA nations Japan, Korea and Iran. The world-wide televised Asian Cup has 32 matches in 23 days, from January 9 to 31 in five host cities – Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Newcastle with the final at Sydney Olympic Park.
The 16 nations to qualify for AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015 are Australia as hosts, defending champions Japan, Korea Republic and 2012 AFC Challenge Cup winners DPR Korea, along with qualifiers Bahrain, China, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan. Palestine claimed the last spot by winning the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup in May.
Australia is yet to win the prestigious trophy. Japan leads the table with four wins followed by Saudi Arabia and Iran with three victories apiece. The economic boon to Australia is calculated at around $230million (PwC) with 45,000 international visitors expected. The AFC has 47 member nations representing more than four billion people – the world’s biggest region.
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Our dad – the superhero
Croydon Park’s Eric Meguid with his three daughters. by Saimi Jeong
“I’M LIKE every other dad – nothing special. I consider myself fortunate.” Eric Meguid, 46 and a Croydon Park businessman, is the father of three sporty daughters. There’s 21-year-old Isabella, who played competitive tennis; and soccer stars Kristina, 18, and 15-year-old Laura. “I’m part of that army of fathers,” Eric says about his daughters’ weekly sports events. The dads are there to cheer on the wins but also to cheer up glum faces when there’s defeat – they “clean up the tears, prop them up, encourage them.” Eric believes that simple
moments like losing a soccer match can teach valuable life lessons. He wants his daughters to learn that “it’s good to be competitive, but it’s also important that you don’t take yourself too seriously.” Not that it happens very often. If Laura’s team – the Enfield Rovers – wins the grand final at the end of the month, it will be their third grand final victory. It was Laura’s mother, Sarah, who first encouraged her and Kristina to try soccer. When Eric discovered that his youngest – five-year-old Laura – was to play in a boys’ team (she was one of two girls), he was nervous. But Laura wasn’t. “She became quite a defensive
player. She never backs down,” says Eric. His worries transformed into enthusiasm and he’s helped manage the team ever since. “I’m very proud of my children… proud of their accomplishments and their achievements and the values they have – as I’m sure many fathers are. I know a lot of great dads.” And what’s the best part about being a dad? “The look of pride and admiration you get from your children,” he says, after struggling to pick just one. “You’re like this superhero guy – it’s like, a dad can do anything.”
REMEMBER DAD THIS FATHER’S DAY SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER
Four inner west mayors had the chance to get their hands on the very weighty Asian Cup recently. Cr Brian Robson (Canterbury), Cr Daniel Bott (Strathfield), Cr John Faker (Burwood) and Cr Lucille McKenna (Ashfield).
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BURWOOD SCENE
27 August 2014