CHALLENGES in accessing primary care continue to pressure emergency departments with more than one in four patients presenting to NSW emergency departments (ED) saying they wouldn’t be there if they could access a general practitioner (GP). Read on page 3.
CHALLENGES in accessing primary care are continuing to put pressure on busy emergency departments, with more than one in four patients presenting to NSW emergency departments (ED) saying they wouldn’t be there if they could just access a general practitioner (GP).
According to the Bureau of Health Information (BHI), 28 per cent of ED patients surveyed said they would have gone to a GP to treat their condition but had no choice other than to go to a hospital.
Many people are presenting EDs with non-life-threatening conditions because they cannot find an appointment within a reasonable time or a GP that bulk-bills.
It comes as the latest BHI data for the September 2024 quarter shows immense pressure on hospitals in the Western Sydney Local Health District.
There were 56,151 ED attendances –up 4.7 per cent from the same quarter last year. There were 16,558 ambulance arrivals – up 3.4 per cent. Semi-urgent and non-urgent presentations across NSW have continued a downward trend.
Of the more than 787,000 attendances to NSW EDs, 281,912 were presentations by patients in the
semi-urgent category (triage category 4), and 58,023 in the non-urgent category (triage category 5) – a combined decrease of 2,451 presentations in these categories compared with the same quarter in 2023.
These conditions can include minor aches and pains, sprained ankles, migraines, earaches, rashes, coughs and colds.
102,000 people were diverted away from EDs during this period due to HealthDirect – a phoneline which directs people to a registered nurse who can guide them to a care pathway outside of the hospital.
This compares to 72,000 people diverted away from EDs during the same quarter last year. The NSW Government is rolling out its comprehensive ED relief package, which includes:
• $171.4M to introduce three additional virtual care services helping 180,000 avoid a trip to the ED;
to care outside of our hospitals for an estimated 114,000 patients.
• $70M to expand emergency department short stay units to improve patient flow to reduce ED wait times by nearly 80,000 hours.
• $15.1M for an Ambulance Matrix that provides real time hospital data to enable paramedics to transport patients to emergency departments with greater capacity and reduce wait times.
• $31.4M to increase Hospital in the Home across the state allowing over 3,500 additional patients each year to be cared for in their home rather than a hospital bed.
• $53.9M to improve patient ow and support discharge planning by identified patients early on that are suitable to be discharged home with the appropriate supports in place.
To access HealthDirect go to: www.healthdirect.gov.au g ear. T ng out it relief introduce three are oid d n y $ suppo i on that arge riate mond A unt mm ent to ad hor We the Fe N
• $100M to back in our urgent care services to become a mainstay and key instrument of the health system in providing a pathway
Edmond Atalla, Member for Mount Druitt said: “The Commonwealth Government is working hard to address the current shortage of GP’s crisis. We continue to suffer the impact of the Federal Liberals’ and Nationals’ freeze
on the Medicare rebate, unfortunately the damage done cannot be reversed overnight and will take time.
“The Commonwealth GP’s shortage has placed severe pressure on our hospitals as the community has little choice but to present at their local Emergency Department’s for non-emergency conditions.
“The NSW Government is making significant investments in both easing pressure on our EDs as well as creating alternative pathways to access care outside of the hospital system.”
Set in one of the fastest growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master planned community of new homes, wide open spaces, exceptional new schools and expanding dining and retail precincts.
Premium land is scheduled to release soon and there’s a lot to fit every budget and lifestyle.
• Well positioned near the rapidly expanding Oran Park Town Centre
• Close proximity to award-winning parks, green spaces and waterways
• Easy build lots ranging from 300m 2 to 600m 2
Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer. Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.
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ISSUE 46 | January 2025
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RIVERSTONE Dolphins RSL Youth
Swimming Club has commemorated its 30th season.
Commencing in 1994 with learn to swim lessons on Saturday mornings, the Riverstone Dolphins Swimming Club has expanded over 30 years to become a stalwart in the local Riverstone sporting club calendar.
Every week on Thursday nights, over the regular competition season from 6.30pm, the Dolphins are out at the Riverstone Swimming Centre! The 50M outdoor pool is the home aquatic centre for the Dolphins.
Over three decades, membership of the Riverstone Dolphins has expanded and contracted, but with considerable growth in the Riverstone and surrounding area, it is anticipated the 30th season will be the biggest to-date.
The Dolphins committee has been hard at work to generate sponsorship for the club to help support new initiatives.
The committee is grateful to all the
Asponsors that have come on board to help keep costs down for club swimmers. New initiatives include club training tees and squad coaching.
The club hopes to be able to offer morning squad training with support from Blacktown City Council.
President of the Riverstone Dolphins, Craig Miller encouraged new and old families to register soon to avoid disappointment.
“Riverstone Dolphins really is Australia’s friendliest swim club! Providing a safe and welcoming environment for developing swimmers to experience race nights, and
improve their personal best is core to our values and our offering at the Dolphins,” said Craig.
Mr Miller said the age-range for club swimmers had changed over time. Toddlers, called ‘bubble swimmers’ race 12.5m with adult assistance and floatation devices and increasingly, families of three generations of swimmers have become norm!
“The committee encourages anyone from the local community that has wondered about their kids or even, themselves joining a swim club, to join us. Masters swimmers are increasing in numbers each year, with parents not wanting to miss out on the fun! On Thursday nights, we swim!”
Mr Warren Kirby, NSW MP for Riverstone joined in celebrations for the Riverstone Dolphins and congratulated the club for its continuity and commitment to being a development swim club.
More at www.riverstonedolphins.com.au
LOCAL Seven Hills institution is enhancing its role in the local neighborhood.
The Hudson Hotel, a long-standing fixture, has listened to its patrons and is reintroducing itself as the ultimate local gathering spot.
At the heart of this initiative is the belief that connection to community matters.
The venue has reimagined its space to become a true social hub, offering an environment where families, friends, and neighbors can meet, share experiences, and create lasting memories.
With spacious settings that accommodate large groups and intergenerational gatherings the hotel caters well to the diverse and vibrant area of Seven
Hills and surrounds.
The Hudson Hotel is focusing on creating an inclusive atmosphere where guests feel genuinely welcome.
The staff 's commitment to building authentic relationships with patrons ensures that each visitor feels familiar and inviting.
The Hudson Hotel offers great value menus designed for sharing, catering
to all tastes and occasions, where local connections are formed.
“Whether you're planning a family reunion, a night out with friends, or simply seeking a warm space to unwind, the Hudson is a venue that is enhancing its local connections,” a spokesperson said.
Visit: www.hudsonhotel.com.au
THE Blacktown City Art Prize returns to launch the 2025 Summer program at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre from January 11 to March 28, 2025.
Now in its 29th year, the prize has become a highlight for the local community to check out new talent and see some of their own artworks on the gallery walls!
74
finalists from various career stages and locations across Western Sydney and Australia were selected by a panel of independent industry peers.
The exhibition will be an impressive display of the breadth and depth of contemporary art practice.
The full list of finalists can be found here: https://blacktownarts.com.au/ event/2025-blacktown-city-art-prize/
The independent judging panel – Jasmine Sarin (Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-Operative artist), Morgan Hogg (artist), and Luke L?tourneau (Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre Curator and Collections Lead) – were impressed with the standard of this year’s entries.
With such a wide range of artworks, they believed that many of the works addressed both personal narratives and wider world issues with “a remarkable range of technical skill and storytelling ability.”
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the Blacktown City Art Prize has
showcased the creative talents of our artists for almost 30 years.
Blacktown City Council is a strong supporter of the arts community and this event is one of just many planned in 2025.”
The 2025 Blacktown City Art Prize offers a total prize pool of $23,500 and acquisitions across 5 categories including:
Main Prize (acquisitive): $15,000.
First Nations Artist Prize: $2,500.
Local Artist Prize: $2,500.
Early-Career Artist Prize (acquisitive): $2,500.
People’s Choice Prize: $1,000.
All artworks in the exhibition will be available for purchase at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre from January 11.
Visitors can vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice Prize. The winner will be announced in the final week of the exhibition.
Awards for the Main Prize, First Nations Artist Prize, Local Artist Prize, and Early-Career Artist prize will be announced on January 9, 2025.
Key Dates
Exhibition: January 11 to March 28, 2025 For the list of finalists and further information visit www.blacktownarts.com.au
We are thrilled to announce that we are forming a new Probus is about bringing retirees & semi-retirees together to build new friendships, keep connected within the community and enjoy new outings and
VENUE: HUDSON HOTEL
ADDRESS: 5 QUINN AVENUE, SEVEN HILLS
DATE/TIME: MONDAY 3RD FEBRUARY, 10AM
ADDRESS: 5 AVENUE SEVE FEBRUA speak and activities N HI RY, 1 peak LLS 0AM kers
Listen to interesting guest speakers make new connections enjoy outings and activities
Please contact Ethan at 1300 630 488 or email
draws Sunday 2nd February at Workers blacktown
Terms and conditions apply Live lion dance from 3pm win a share in $8,888 cash from 4pm gain an entry with every $10 spend on food and beverage entries start wednesday 1st january 2025.
THE AUSTRALIAN LUKE COMBS EXPERIENCE SATURDAY 1ST FEBRUARY TICKETS $39 EACH
RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS
SATURDAY 22ND FEBRUARY TICKETS $25 EACH
BRAZILIAN FIESTA SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY $25 MEMBERS | $30 VISITORS
DANCING IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN SATURDAY 1ST MARCH TICKETS $39 EACH
BRAD BUNTING
WELCOME to 2025. I hope you enjoyed the festive season and have made a good start to the new year? If you are still on holidays, lucky you!
I am looking forward to delivering real progress for our community this year. We have a diverse set of Councillors and I am confident we can work with you to achieve big things. Some projects I am looking forward to include:
• The expanded Kevin Betts Stadium at Mount Druitt.
• Upgrading the intersection of Elara Boulevard and Northbourne
Drive, Marsden Park.
• Progressing plans for an expanded Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.
These are just some of the exciting projects underway.
We will continue to seek your input so our planning serves the people who matter most: you. As always, if you see me around town, please come up and say hello.
Help to beat the heat Summer is in full swing and there are more hot days to come.
We know people in Western Sydney experience extreme temperatures, so Council is playing an active role to keep our community safe. Council is working with community
organisations to provide Cool Centres –places where people can find relief from the heat – on heatwave days through to the end of March.
Libraries, community centres and other venues can be used as Cool Centres. Cool Centres will be advertised at Council venues and online (website, social media) when available. We have also developed a contact register so we can reach vulnerable people quickly. For children, Council has extended the hours of our splash parks from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm until 28 February. These are great places to cool off Council continues to plant more trees and is working with the building industry to encourage materials that reduce heat.
Can you provide a good home to an abandoned pet?
At this time of year, we sadly find many cats and dogs abandoned. In some cases these animals were Christmas presents that proved too much for their owners. If you can provide a permanent home to an animal in need, the staff at the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre at Glendenning would love to hear from you.
DENTISTS are urging parents to prioritise regular dental check-ups as the 2024 Oral Health Tracker Report revealed a surge in preventable hospitalisations for children due to dental issues. Tooth decay affects over 27% of kids aged
5–10, contributing to hospital pressures. Initiatives like Bupa’s Members First Ultimate and the Child Dental Benefits Schedule offer cost-effective options for families to maintain oral health, reduce hospital demand, and prevent long-term dental problems.
THE AMA’s 2023 Specialist Trainee Experience Health Check highlights challenges in medical training, with no program rated above a C+. Key concerns include inadequate exam feedback, low confidence in reporting harassment, and limited rural training opportunities. Only 34% of metropolitan trainees consider rural practice, compared to 78% of rural-based trainees wanting to stay. The AMA urges reforms to improve support, feedback, and rural training options to address workforce shortages and trainee wellbeing.
THE Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is urging reforms to after-hours care, highlighting the need for improved funding and GP involvement to ensure accessibility and continuity
of care. The RACGP advocates after-hours rebates, multidisciplinary teams, and tailored services for rural and vulnerable populations. President Dr. Nicole Higgins stresses the importance of redesigning funding models to keep practices open longer and improve patient outcomes.
THE Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) 2023–2024 annual report highlights signi fi cant achievements, including 19 million Charity Register searches and 3.8 million website views. The ACNC conducted 250 charity reviews, addressed 2,309 concerns, and revoked nine charity statuses. Key focuses included compliance, cyber security, and transparency. For 2024–2025, priorities include
protecting vulnerable people, preventing fraud, and tackling misuse of complex structures to conceal non-compliance or fi nancial mismanagement.
AS Australia gears up for another year of horse racing, the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses' Deathwatch 2024 Report reveals 151 racehorse deaths on track in 2023/24, equating to three weekly fatalities. CPR warns the true toll is higher, with hidden euthanasia and exploitation rife. Campaigners urge awareness of the industry's cruelty and low profi tability for owners.
THE GoodSAM app connects trains responders to nearby cardiac arrest incidents, guiding them to perform CPR and locate AEDs from the NSW public access defibrillator registry. With over 4,300 AEDs registered and 30 lives saved, including 12 with AEDs, this life-saving tool enhances survival rates while paramedics are en route. Registration is open to willing CPR-capable adults.
ASURVEY by Audika Hearing Clinic reveals Australians prioritize sight over hearing, with 73% admitting hearing is the most neglected sense. Stigma and lack of understanding contribute to this, with 59% perceiving a negative stigma around hearing loss. Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold shares her journey of overcoming stigma, encouraging early checks. Audika urges. Australians over 26 to prioritize hearing health with free or online checks to improve quality of life.
RESEARCH from UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) highlights hypertension treatment as a key Alzheimer’s prevention strategy. A study of 31,250 individuals found untreated hypertension after age 60 increases Alzheimer’s risk by 42%, while treated hypertension eliminates this risk. Antihypertensive benefits persist into the 80s, with similar effects across genders and ethnicities. Experts urge global efforts to address hypertension, crucial in tackling the growing dementia crisis.
BLACKTOWN City Council December meeting voted to investigate the local heritage significance of Bowman Hall.
Bowman Hall has been the centre of local community activities since 1965.
The Blacktown News published a series of articles in May and June 2023 backing community calls for heritage listing of Bowman Hall to protect it from potential demolition after the sale of CBD land to Walker Corporation in March 2023.
The articles highlighted the birth of modern Australia through the national Labor election campaign launch in 1972 and 1974 where the then Labor Leader, Gough Whitlam declared significant structural reforms to Australia during his tenure as prime minister including the end of the white Australia policy, ending conscription to the Vietnam war, introduction of Medibank (forerunner to Medicare) and free university courses.
Stephen Bali, Member for Blacktown has since continued to lobby to have the building to be considered for State Heritage listing by the NSW Government.
Blacktown Council is investing what local significance Bowman Hall has played in the history of Blacktown City resulting from a motion proposed by Cr Bob Fitzgerald OAM and Cr Carol Israel.
Cr Jess Diaz successfully called for an amendment to involve Blacktown Historical Society in the historical assessment.
Cr Peter Camilleri outlined the importance of its future as it was one of most raised issues and remains unaddressed by Council.
Cr Camilleri said: “It makes sense to have a look at it. The heritage of this place goes beyond politics and big events and includes year seven socials, and I swore my citizenship to Australia in that very hall as so many others have for years and years before hand.
“It is all the small events that on mass effect all residents of Blacktown. Given there is such a high proportion of people from overseas and attend schools locally resulting in a big and strong connection with Bowman Hall.”
Cr Fitzgerald OAM said: “Bowman Hall does have cultural, spiritual and historical significance and not just only citizenship ceremonies, debuts, but weddings and anniversaries and a whole ambit of festivals and events including the multicultural community using it extensively.”
“This should have been brought up prior to 2021 by this Council. It wasn’t and I am glad it is being supported.”
Mr Bali said the new owners, Walker Corporation, have a strong legacy in protecting and enhancing historical and culturally significant buildings within their development precincts as demonstrated with their recent Parramatta development.”
“I am sure that Walker Corporation
will listen to community feedback in designing a future Blacktown that preserves its past with additional new buildings,” Mr Baili said.
Bowman Hall has been the centre of many events including Cr Fitzgerald’s first date with Kate at a debutant ball. The two went on to get married.
Timmy Trumpet’s early DJ stage performances were at Bowman Hall at the 2011 Satisfaction Foam Party night. He has gone on to become a sensational international musician, DJ, songwriter and producer performing at sell out concerts including Ultra Music Festival in the US with a crowd of over 165,000.
Brothers Jason and Dave Ghazal also Blacktown residents had their early start as DJs in Bowman Hall and have gone onto become Australia’s leading entrepreneurs in stage and sound productions operating Jay Productions and Events.
John Horne, Secretary of Blacktown and District Historical Society Inc said local heritage listing is about local stories of how buildings like Bowman Hall made a difference in our lives.
“We need many people to come forward and share their stories about why Bowman Hall is important to them so it can be successfully listed on the Council’s heritage registry,” Mr Horne said. Emails of support can be sent to jhorneex@ live.com.au and will be collated and presented to Blacktown Council for their assessment and feedback to councillors.
Western Sydney is typically 6-10 degrees hotter than the rest of the city during extreme heat events. Heatwaves are responsible for more deaths in NSW than any other severe weather event. Bring prepared prior to a heatwave is crucial to keeping yourselves and other safe.
Lie down in a cool or shady area
Remove extra layers of clothing and any tight clothes
Put your hands and feet in cold water, or have a cool shower
Cool by moistening skin and fanning
Have frequent, small sips of water
A Cool Centre is a place you can go to seek relief from extreme heat. These are especially for people who are unable to keep cool at home. For information about Cool Centres open in your area, please visit our Western Sydney Cool Centres webpage.
While everyone is at risk of heat-related illness, those most at risk are:
Expectant mums and young children
Older people
People with chronic illnesses and mental health concerns
Outdoor workers
In addition to physical health risks, heatwaves can also exacerbate mental illness and increase the risk of domestic violence. Studies have shown that violence increases with warmer weather. This can be linked to disrupted sleep patterns, increased social isolation during extreme temperatures and increased discomfort and irritability due to temperatures1
For free mental health help and guidance, call 1800 595 212
Heat can be extremely dangerous. Exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke which can be a life-threatening condition.
Contact your GP or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 if you experience:
• High body temperature (over 40’C)
• Nausea
• Confusion and fainting
In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000).
1 University of Sydney (2024), Rise in suicidal behaviours among young people linked to hotter temperatures. Accessed by: https://www.unsw.edu.au/newsroom/news/2024/10/rise-in-suicidal-behaviours-amongyoung-people-linked-to-hotter-temperatures
with Emma Wilson
THE Pullman Sydney Hyde Park has partnered with the Australian Museum for their new and exciting summer exhibition that has come to Australia. At Pullman Hyde Park, you feel completely on holiday, next to Hyde Park, a very New York-style park right across the road with rooms on the West side looking down into the lush tree-filled park.
This incredible Museum exhibition is just one block from the hotel. Bring the whole family to the Pullman Hotel and enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast, order poolside drinks ordered to you from 7am till 11pm and base yourself on the rooftop for a few happy hours in the pool and spa. Happy hour in the lobby bar is 4pm till 10pm Tuesday-Saturdays and Candy hour is in the lobby on 3pm
Wto 4pm Friday and Saturday. The Pullman hotel has a special for the summer: Inclusions: Overnight Accommodation | Buffet Breakfast | Tickets to the Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru exhibition at the Australian Museum | Kids activity pack (available for bookings with children). STAY FROM $329: Book Now and Stay until 23 February 2025, www.pullmansydneyhydepark.com.au/offers
HAT a fabulous way to explore waterways and do something completely different. GoBoat, based out of Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and the Gold Coast is a fantastic electric-powered picnic boat that seats up to eight people and is very easy to Drive, no boat licence needed.
Our group of four ladies spent a wonderful two hours on Sydney’s waterway, arriving at Cabarita Point’s picturesque marina in time for a quick coffee and a 5 minute safety run through. On such a hot Sydney day,
our GoBoat’s boat canopy overhead kept us protected from the heat as we puttered along pleasantly, enjoying the view of stunning sandstone, concrete and timber mansions along the waterway. Our session was for 2 hours, and we felt one hour was not long enough for us, despite GoBoat offering one to four hour sessions for electric boats.
With a picnic table onboard, we ate and drank our way along the waterway during the daytime, but evening sessions are available too and would be a great way to watch the sunset.
GoBoats are pet friendly so fur babies are welcome. Staff are incredibly helpful and friendly and will track your boat in case you get lost – we only made one wrong turn and received a friendly phone call to help us get back on track immediately.
Australia has some of the best waterways in the world and boating is a great way to experience the great outdoors whether it is by power boat, sailing boat or paddle craft. This summer why not get out on the water with family or friends and soak up the vast health benefits, recharge the batteries
and create lasting memories. Head to www.goboat.com.au to book your vessel with friends and family or to find out more ways to get out on the water this summer visit discoverboating.com.au.
The only way to enjoy the Northern beaches is by using public transport as the rangers are plentiful and LOVE to hand out parking tickets. Catch the B line buses from Stand B, Carrington St at Wynyard (the street above George street). Buses come extremely regularly between 4.30am and 12.30am (after midnight) and can take you all the way to Mona Vale. The 190 or 190X will take you to Palm Beach stopping regularly and the easiest beaches to walk to from the bus stops are Collaroy and Narrabeen.
Collaroy Beach has a terrific pool and enclosed park for kids and is close to the shops and movies, including surf shops and places to get snacks and lunch.
If you get off at Narrabeen it’s best to buy drinks, snacks and foods from the shops near the bust stop as there’s nothing at the actual beach that is an easy walk. On the lake side you can hire a canoe or SUP from Pro Kayaks on the lake, it’s open 9-4pm or 9-5pm on weekends. Call 9970 7081 with your questions.
If you would like to catch the 190 or 190X to Palm Beach, it’s an easy stroll across the road to the sand and there are cafes, a surf shop and often an ice cream van there. If you’d like to try surfing Manly Surf School operates there. Reserve a spot in a lesson by booking https://manlysurfschool.com/location/ palm-beach/ or call 9932 7000.
Under the Roseville Bridge is a great place to picnic or put in a SUP, it’s not the best for swimming or for kids to water play due to ‘rumours of a few sharky creatures’ but the location and scenery is incredible and there is plenty of parking. If you’re prefer to be in a more bustling location with the support of staff to help you launch a kayak, Sydney Harbour Kayaks are based at the Spit, it’s a stunning location to paddle around. Parking is limited but possible, make sure you feed the meter, buses don’t stop directly at the spit from Wynyard. Call the transport info line 131 500 or go to https://transportnsw.info for detailed itinerary from your area for buses.
There are great spots to swim all along the Manly beach as well as the Sydney Harbour side, and nice snorkeling at Shelly Beach. Parking is terrible so it’s best to arrive by ferry. You can hire a kayak on the Sydney Harbour side at Manly Sailing. Call 99774000.
If you’re curious about joining a Freedom Boat Club or you’re already a member, there are two Northern Beaches locations between Bayview and Newport. Freedom Boat Club is global with 400 locations and growing and is the easiest way to get out on the water. With a membership, you can reserve a boat for the day and the staff take care of the maintenance for you and they give you unlimited training. Call 9457 2000 and enjoy the gorgeous Pittwater waterway or the beautiful and secluded Bobbin Head.
with Emma Wilson
WHAT better way to enjoy all the fun of Darling Harbour with your family this summer than a staycation at the Park Royal Hotel. It’s a cheaper option than heading overseas. Rooms are extremely comfortable and if you request a room with Club privileges you can enjoy evening drinks and nibbles in the Club lounge overlooking Darling Harbour and the bustling waterways of Sydney. Enjoy your breakfast there too or in the lovely Barkers restaurant, fill the kids up with fresh fruit and a hot breakfast before a day of activities.
What can you do in Darling Harbour?
With the hotel positioned right at the edge of Darling Harbour, walk for 2 minutes to enjoy Darling Harbour’s family offerings - pedal boats (hire a pedal boat for up to two adults and two children) between 1st- 28 January in Darling Harbour’s Cockle Bay for just $45. Watch an IMAX film on the big screen, visit the Chinese Gardens, visit Sealife Aquarium or The Children’s playground at Darling Harbour is extensive and FREE, surrounded by great places for lunch.
James CameronChallenging the Deep Enter Curious. Exit Inspired. The Australian National Maritime Museum has a terrific exhibition between 1st to 31st January showcasing James Cameron’s, (explorer and filmmaker)
Eunderwater passion projects in deep ocean science, technology and exploration, including material on his record-breaking dive to the bottom of the planet in the Deepsea Challenger, the submersible he co-designed and co-engineered.
The Park Hyatt’s Abode Restaurant is a family-friendly yet stylish and chic. with delicious barramundi, aged sirloin, roasted cauliflower and house made bread. The olives are lovely or the cheeseboard or Sydney
Rock oysters are a quick healthy snack. The chocolate mousse dessert is to die for. Abode Restaurant is part of the Park Royal Hotel at 150 Day Street, Sydney phone 02 92611188 or reserve a room at enquiry.prsyd@ parkroyalhotels.com
EXPLORE Sydney’s past with a visit to the superbly renovated Old Clare Hotel in Sydney’s Chippendale area. In the earlier days of Sydney this heritage building formed part of the Carlton and United Brewery and is now a hotel with 69 rooms and a gorgeous rooftop pool. The Old Clare’s roof top bar looks over Sydney and is a destination in its own right. The rooftop bar is a great place to start your evening as the sun goes down before heading out for dinner.
The hotel is a fascinating building with lots of historical features to look at. Rooms have been thoughtfully designed with a vintage feel with use of items, such as a vintage spotlight, a claw foot bath and zig-zag parquetry (mozaic wood tile) flooring. At night Spice Alley, the alleyway next door comes alive with restaurants, bars and cafes and foot traffic lifting the energy of the entire area into a happy, festive
place to eat, meet and have a drink. 1 Kensington St Chippendale phone 8277 8277
Longshore Restaurant
Right next door to the hotel, is a very unsuspecting gem of a seafood restaurant. Executive chef Jarrod Walsh produces excellent ethically sourced delicate dishes in small plates to share or large plates to enjoy yourself. ‘Inspired by the dynamic Australian coastline’ think BBQ Skull Island Tiger prawn, roast shellfish bisque, Fraser Island Spanner crabs or coal grilled Ulladulla swordfish loin. If you’re not a fan of seafood, you can enjoy BBQ Wollemi duck leg, Dry aged Byron Bay Borrowdale pork chops. This is just a sample of a very thoughtful, sustainable and seasonal menu. The desserts. - Burnt Aussie pavlova and dark chocolate brownie are delicious. Their current special is a glass of wine, a small plate and something larger for $70pp. Kensington St Chippendale phone 8227 8522 info@ longshore.com.au
Toch Bar
Drop in at the ultra-modern, utterly instagrammable TOCH bar for a delicious breakfast right next to the hotel. Smashed Avo on toast, Eggs Benedict and full breakfast are recommended. Open 7am – 10.30am Monday to Friday and 7am – 11am Saturday and Sundays.
The Rocks
It is wonderful to wander around Sydney’s Rocks market on a Saturday or Sunday. Buy a coffee, buy a handcrafted gift or jewelry and take in the historic vibe and the sights of the beautiful harbour. Open 10am to 5pm every weekend it really is the best way to enjoy historical Sydney.
BLACKTOWN local and former Kellyville Magpies Junior Australian Football Club player Josaia Delana has become the latest western Sydney product to land in the AFL, with the talented forward taken by the GWS GIANTS as a Category B Rookie.
The 18-year-old, who has been a part of the GIANTS Academy for two years, joins GWS after deciding to hone his focus on AFL, having grown up playing soccer, rugby union and rugby league.
Delana is a small forward of Fijian descent who plays with flair and energy.
Possessing clean hands, strong decision-making and an explosive sidestep, Delana represented the Allies on four
occasions in 2024 while also playing eight games for the GIANTS’ VFL side.
WESTERN Sydney is set to spike into action with the opening of the new state-of-the-art Blacktown City Beach Volleyball Courts at Glenwood Reserve, Glenwood.
The facility is now officially open to the community, providing an exciting new sporting opportunity for all ages.
The $1M project, funded through
Delana centres the opportunity to represent his upbringing and the western Sydney community as a point of excitement ahead of his first season.
’ VFL side. rtunity to d the westof t season.
o repremmunity,”
“I’m extremely excited to represent the Western Sydney community,” Delana said.
ort out
“AFL is still a growing sport out there and I’m glad to put it forward as an opportunity and pathway for kids in western Sydney to take.
“It’s not a foreign sport, there are plenty of pathways that they can take to be drafted and become a professional sportsperson.”
A multi-talented sportsperson,
Delana forewent other sports when selected to the Academy, a move which the GIANTS have repaid in their selection.
the NSW Government’s Office of Sport’s Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund, is a game-changer for local sport, bringing the thrill of beach volleyball to a region not traditionally associated with the sand-based sport.
Blakcktown Mayor Brad Bunting said the new facility highlights the Council's commitment to providing a
“I only started playing AFL when I was 13, through the school system and AFL NSW/ACT setting up the clinics, they actually paid for my registration the first year,” Delana says.
Delana has begun the pre-season at GIANTS HQ in Sydney Olympic Park, with the full 44-player GWS GIANTS squad now in pre-season ahead of the 2025 AFL Opening Round.
range of sporting opportunities for the community.
“Our vibrant and growing community deserves access to as many sporting and recreational activities as possible,” Mayor Bunting said.
The multi-court complex is the first of its kind in Western Sydney and offers opportunities for both competitive
and recreational beach volleyball.
The venue is designed to cater to a wide range of skill levels, making it accessible and welcoming to the entire community.
Volleyball NSW will work closely with the Council to activate the venue with programs and competitions designed to engage the entire community.
SEASON 2025 is now upon us. Since the semi-final loss to Marconi last year, Blacktown City has been very active on and off the field in pursuing its position as the number one sports team for the city it represents.
After finishing fourth and bowing out in the semi-finals last year, Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, has recruited well with the announcement of his 2025 National Premier Leagues Men’s NSW player roster.
In a rare coaching achievement for any sport anywhere in the world, Critto will be approaching his 450th game as the head coach of Blacktown City Senior Men.
Regarded as one of the best coaches ever to grace the NPL Men’s NSW competition, coach Mark Crittenden has secured six new names for the new season and rewarded three Under 20’s players with first grade contracts.
Fromer Edgeworth Eagle Keanu Moore, ex-Bonnyrigg White Eagles player Maksim Jez, former Preston Lions ace Jakob Cresnar, ex-Western Sydney Wanderer Dimo Dimo, Jarred McKinley from the NWS Spirit FC and former Newcastle Jets young gun Zac Bowling will all be donning the Blacktown City kit in 2025.
Sebastian Hayward, Charles Saul and Daniel McHugh have all been promoted from the club’s Under 20s while City household names Travis Major, Grant Lynch, Lachlan Campbell, the
O’Brien brothers Jak and Ben, the Berry brothers Adam and Ben, Mitch Mallia and Danny Choi are just some of the players who have once again agreed to terms with the club.
Blacktown City’s Women program is coming into its fourth season with the goal to be playing NPL 1 within three years.
The Senior Women are already in training and Head Coach Michael Hawthorne has been busy recruiting his roster. All three Blacktown youth girl teams made the Finals last year with the Under 16’s winning the NSW Championship Off the field, the Blacktown City Board has been active in building its
• Women’s Change RoomsCourtesy of the NSW Office of Sport, Blacktown are in the final stages of completing a $1 million renovation of the change rooms at Landen Stadium, providing a dedicated locker room for the Senior Women.
• New Commentating Booth – In partnership with sponsor, Proview Scaffolding, Blacktown have installed a permanent commentating booth on the South/East side of the Stadium. This means the coverage for NPL.TV will now be towards the main Grandstand.
• Paint the Town Red & BlackTo further brighten up the stadium,
Blacktown have committed to repaint the exterior of Landen Stadium to be completed in preparation for the 2025 season.
• Membership Programme – Blacktown have introduced a new Gold & Silver membership programme with dedicated seating for all members in the main Grandstand. Gold Membership is only $199.
• MATE/Elevate Sport 360 – Blacktown have finalised a marketing/sponsorship with MATE and their sports software Elevate Sport 360 to drive community awareness and membership. Their Ambassador, Sam Kerr, and former Ambassador and ex Blacktown City Junior, Maty Ryan, demonstrate their football passion.
Dates to Remember
1. Friday, January 31st – Season Launch – Hudson Hotel.
2. Saturday, February 7th - 2025 Men’s Season Opening Game - Marconi Stadium.
3. Saturday, February 14th – 2025 Men’s Home Opening Game – 7pmLanden Stadium.
4. Friday February 21st – Black & Red Night – Blacktown Workers.
5. Late February – Official Launch of the New Change Rooms at Landen Stadium.
6. Sunday, March 2nd – Season Opening Game for the Senior Women (Draw to be confirmed).
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