Blacktown News - April 2022 by Community Broadcast Network (CBN)

ISSUE 13 | APRIL 2022

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CHEF'S PLAN FOR THE CBD W HEN Luigi De Luca sold his ‘La Cremeria De Luca’ Gelato Café in Five dock last year he found retirement boring and believed he still had so much to give to struggling businesses in the Blacktown area. Luigi, 64, has lived in Blacktown for three years and this week he said the CBD was looking “a little tired” and businesses were struggling. “I want to assist small and family businesses who need some guidance and help running and growing their business." Full Story: page 33.

1700 new jobs & $55M boost: 11 SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO LOCAL BUSINESS WINNERS

Keep up to date with the latest news in and around Blacktown! Get your monthly community e-newsletter today.

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important community announcements upcoming events transformational projects school holiday activities community award programs competitions much, much more...

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Blacktown City blacktown.nsw.gov.au

Blacktown

Snapshot

403,000

4.6%

26,141

average economic growth

registered businesses

18.81 billion regional economy

population

Become a Bushcare volunteer

local jobs

What’s on

Do you want to help our local wildlife and protect our bushland?

Stanhope Scribes

You can play a significant role in protecting and preserving bushland habitat in your area by becoming a Bushcare Volunteer.

Saturday 9 April from 1 pm – 4 pm Dennis Johnson Library, Stanhope Gardens

Bushcare is a great way to meet new people, have fun outdoors and help improve the natural environment. Volunteering involves weed removal, seed collecting, pruning, planting, litter collection and other tasks that benefit our native flora and fauna.

Love writing? Looking for a way to develop your writing skill?

Council provides supervision, training and tools. There are 16 Bushcare Groups across Blacktown City that you can join. For more information, visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/bushcare

152,928

Join Stanhope Scribes, a supportive group of people who love writing and enjoy helping each other develop this important skill.

Blacktown Night Markets Thursday 14 April from 5 pm – 9 pm Warrick Lane Precinct, Warrick Lane, Blacktown The vibrant food market is back in Blacktown’s Warrick Lane Precinct on the second Thursday of each month. Host to some of the best food trucks and stalls Sydney has to offer, it is a night out that the whole family will enjoy.

BLACKTOWN CITY YOUTH AMBASSADOR PROGRAM Applications close 5.30 pm, Friday 16 September 2022

blacktown.nsw.gov.au/youthambassador

Riverstone Festival Saturday 14 May from 9 am – 3 pm Mill Street Reserve, Riverstone Parade, Riverstone

Download the Blacktown City Library app! Did you know our Blacktown City Libraries now have a mobile app? You can now: • browse our catalogue

Council has teamed up with ‘The Combined Churches of Riverstone’ to bring you the annual Riverstone Festival! Join us for a day of activities and entertainment for the whole family, including food and market stalls, stage performers, rides and workshops.

• manage loans, reserve new loans • access e-books, audio books and e-resources • use our mobile printing service all from your mobile phone!

For more information, and to view all of our upcoming events, visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au

The app is free to download now on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Blacktown City Council acknowledges the Darug people as the traditional owners of the land on which Blacktown City was built.

Email us: council@blacktown.nsw.gov.au

Call us: 9839 6000

Visit us: 62 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown

Mail us: PO Box 63, Blacktown 2148

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

CHRISTMAS CHEERS CONTINUES

Community Lunch @ Alpha Park ANDOS Australia has joined hands with The Salvation Army and One Heart Blacktown to provide meals for people doing it tough! Back in 2021 Christmas dinner was transformed into an unexpected treat for 200 people doing it tough in the precincts of Blacktown and Sydney City. Nandos Australia put on a lavish spread of flame-grilled chicken, paella, cheesy garlic mini pitas, BBQ ribs, Haloumi sticks, Mediterranean salad, chocolate mousse, and a whole lot more for some of the neediest members of our communities. Nandos staff threw themselves into the event, working as volunteers on those nights as the business closed its doors to public-paying customers and threw open its doors to those who couldn’t. The air was festive and happy with some popular Christmas carols provided by The Salvation Army band. People went away feeling loved, cared for and with a full belly as plate after plate rolled in off a hot kitchen of happy workers. Topping off the evening was a bag of Christmas goodies handed to each person by cheery Nandos staff at the door. The intention of the night was to help those who would normally not have the experience of being showered with love. The aim was to have these guests knowing they are valued, respected and cared about, and this was achieved in spade-fulls. One Heart Blacktown is a non-profit organisation that believes in putting its faith into action alongside the Salvos, played a key role in the relationship. And things did

Salvation Army teams up with Nandos Australia to provide meals for people doing it tough.

not end at Christmas between these three partners. Now, every Friday, lunch is provided at Alpha Park Blacktown starting from 11.30 by Nandos in collaboration with the Salvos and One Heart. Everyone is welcome at the table, said Tony Calmen from One Heart. On Friday mornings, One Heart and the Salvos arrive before the guests to clean and set up the tables at Alpha Park. “We want to focus on sitting with people, asking how life is treating them and getting to know them,” said Captain Fouzia Mubarak from The Salvation Army. “We want people to know they have friends who

care and they don’t have to do it alone!” In keeping with the theme of ‘FoodFriendship-Faith’, One Heart share encouragement and a thought of the day. The afternoon also has some fun thrown in with a ticket draw for goodies that guests get to take away with them. Captain Louise Beamish, Team Leader of Blacktown Salvos says she was overjoyed with the first event and how since then the momentum has continued. For more enquiries about the Community Lunch @ Alpha Park, Blacktown, please call Captain Louise Beamish on 0419 253 208 or Tony Calmen on 0430 027 638.

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ISSUE 13 | APRIL 2022 How to get The News The Blacktown News is available at strategic locations throughout Blacktown LGA. To find a location near you visit our website.

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CHEF'S PLAN FOR THE CBD W HEN Luigi De Luca sold his ‘La Cremeria De Luca’ Gelato Café in Five dock last year he found retirement boring and believed he still had so much to give to struggling busin esses in the Black town area. Luigi, 64, has lived in Blacktown three years and this for week he said the was looking “a little CBD tired” and businesses were struggling. “I want to assist small and family busin esses who need some guidance and help running and grow ing their business." Full Story: page 9.

1700 new jobs & $55 M

boost: 11

SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO LOCAL BUSINESS WINNERS

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

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• important com munity announce ments • upcoming even ts • transformation al projects • school holiday activities • community awa rd programs • competitions • much, much more ...

Admin and General info@greaterblacktownnews.com.au Editor Michael Walls michael@accessnews.com.au

Newsroom Travel Editor Dallas Sherringham dallas@accessnews.com.au

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KIDS MAKING WAVES

MYER BLACKTOWN CLOSES

GIVING FEELING IS GOOD

Children of all ages can make a splash at a brandnew $700,000 splash pad at Blacktown Aquatic Centre. Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the splash pad was a fabulous addition to the historic pool.

Myer Holdings Limited has announced that it will be exiting its store located in Blacktown in April. The last day for shoppers was Sunday, April 3 as the popular store closes as part of a national rationalisation plan.

Eastern Creek Tavern has joined forces with Kids West charity to leverage their Public Communities program to the Eastern Creek community. The program allows members to pledge to local causes.

Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au

Administration Rebecca Swaleh rebecca@accessnews.com.au

Design and production Design2Pro, Words and Pixels.

Platinum Media Partner The Blacktown News is platinum media partner for the Greater Blacktown

IT'S A SELLOUT SUCCESS

NATURAL COFFEE DRINKERS

FROM BULLED TO FAVOURITE

Aston Martin has announced details of its last ever twin-turbo-charged V12-powered Vantage. The Gaydon-based marque will produce only 333 examples of the specially honed variant.

Coffee drinkers are universally going natural in 2022 but also re-embracing quality instant coffee according to a new report. We are cutting coffee drinks laden with artificial colors, sugar and cow’s milk.

Western Sydney's Jason Isaac has come a long way since he was a seven-year-old dreaming of one day becoming a professional wrestler. He was severely bullied in high school and now a champion wrestler.

Business Chamber

SECTIONS Support Partner The Blacktown News is the official media partner of Blacktown FC.

News .......................................... 3 Blacktown Workers .................... 8 Michelle Rowland .................... 13 Property ................................... 14 Business Awards ..................... 15

Auto ......................................... 28 Games ..................................... 29 Travel ....................................... 30 Fitness ..................................... 32 Cover Story ............................. 33

Men's Health ............................ 34 Women's Health ...................... 35 Films ........................................ 35 Directory .................................. 36 Sport ........................................ 38

Local entertainment Watch locally made films. Stay up to date on infrastructure. Watch profiles of regional leaders. www.netwerx.tv

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM (centre), with Ward 2 Councillor Julie Griffiths (left) and Dharug artist Leanne Watson (right) at Blacktown Aquatic Centre’s new splash pad.

Christofer and Anastacia Panagaris enjoy the new splash pad at Blacktown Aquatic Centre.

Making waves at Blacktown pool HILDREN of all ages can make a splash at a brand-new splash pad at Blacktown Aquatic Centre. The $700,000 project was officially opened in March, with Blacktown City Council celebrating by providing free entry to the splash pad and swimming pool. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the splash pad was a fabulous addition to the historic pool, where children could enjoy the water safely. “This wonderful project features various water features and play zones, designed for children of all ages and abilities to cool off and have fun,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “This project strikes at the heart of one of our key initiatives at Council, to create more places for our residents to be More Active, More Often in Blacktown City. “It’s all thanks to funding from Blacktown City’s $5M Supplementary Works

Program and I’m sure plenty of fun will be had here for many years to come.” Council commissioned and worked with First Nations artist Leanne Watson, who designed colourful art to bring the splash pad to life. A Dharug woman from the Burubirangal and Warmuli family groups, Leanne’s

artwork highlights the connection of Dharug people to local waterways and incorporates imagery of native aquatic fauna. Councillor Julie Griffiths said: “As a councillor representing this area, I am especially proud to see the finished result of this wonderful project.” “This splash pad is one of 10 sport and

recreational projects that are part of Council’s More Active, More Often initiative, to encourage regular physical activity.” To find out more about Council’s More Active, More Often initiative, visit: https://www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au/Sport-recreation/More-Active-MoreOften-In-Blacktown-City

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

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

fridge and forgotten about,” Mr Dominello said. The service is optional meaning customers will continue to receive a paper renewal notice unless they opt-in. To opt-in to Digital Vehicle Registration, visit service.nsw.gov.au.

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Mayor commits to fight diabetes LACKTOWN Mayor Tony Bleasdale has responded to a Blacktown News report that exposed Blacktown’s growing diabetes problem. The article published in the March edition and written by reporter, Jade Hobman asked the question: DOES Greater Blacktown have a problem with diabetes? Looks like it, according to a swath of research done on our very own doorstep. Research conducted at Blacktown Hospital in 2019 unveiled the difficult truth that the health and wellbeing of the City of Blacktown was inching ever closer to one in eight people being under serious threat, the story said. Mayor Bleasdale told The Blacktown News that Blacktown Council is committed to doing all it can to reduce the unacceptably high levels of diabetes in Blacktown City. He congratulated Blacktown News for highlighting the high rates of the disease in Blacktown City in the article titled: Fast Food Debate Rages. See full story at www. greaterblacktownnews.com.au FEATURED “Council is committed to promoting and facilitating a healthy, outdoor lifestyle throughout Blacktown City. We believe this is the greatest contribution Council can make in the fight against diabetes.” Mayor Bleasdale said. He listed the key areas where Council is promoting healthy living:

Artist impression of the International Centre of Training Excellence.

• Increasing and maintaining Council’s network of more than 800 parks, reserves and sporting fields. • Council is partnering with the State Government in constructing 10 new sport and recreation projects under the More Active, More Often Program. • Council maintains outdoor fitness equipment at 28 parks across Blacktown City. • Council runs a large series of free health and fitness programs for all age groups.

• Council is constructingthe$100-million International Centre of Training Excellence with world leading sports health research and development facilities. • Councilis partnering with ACU Blacktown in a number of health-related initiatives at the International Centre of Training Excellence. • Council has an extensive grants program fostering participation in community sport. • Council sponsors the annual Black-

town City Games, Running Festival and Run West community events. Mayor Bleasdale said Council supports the efforts by‘ Diabetes Hub Multicultural Australia’ to improve diabetes awareness in Blacktown City’s diverse communities. “Last December I took part in that organisation’s Diabetes Awareness seminar that highlighted the high incidence of diabetes in our City’s diverse communities,” he said. “I also went on record to support the campaign to get dietitians’ appointments fully covered by Medicare and to put all essential diabetes medications on the PBS.” Responding to comments in the article concerning locating a planned KFC adjacent to Blacktown International Sports park on Eastern Road , Mayor Bleasdale said planning approval in that case did not lie with Council “The NSW Government appointed Independent Planning Panel approved the KFC proposal for the commercial land that is already the site of McDonalds, Taco Bill and 7-Eleven outlets. “With KFC apparently withdrawing from the site, leaseholders Western Sydney Wanderers and the Independent Planning Panel will determine what business occupies the site.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Myer Blacktown to close  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM YER Holdings Limited has announced that it will be exiting its store located in Blacktown in April. The last day for shoppers was Sunday, April 3 as the popular store closes as part of a national rationilisation plan. Since the Customer First Plan was launched, Myer has made strong progress in rationalising its property portfolio with the closure of Logan in January 2019, Hornsby in January 2020, Emporium in May 2020 and Knox in August 2021. Now Blacktown joins the list. Myer CEO John King since making this decision, “we have taken into account our strengthening online sales, as well as the number of Myer stores that are in close proximity to the Blacktown store, including Castle Hill, Parramatta, Bankstown and Roselands.” He said Myer would support all impacted team members through a period of consultation and would look to redeploy as many team members as possible.

“Today’s decision continues to deliver against our Customer First Plan and we will continue to make targeted improvements to our store network, reducing space and improving the offer for our loyal customers.

Major brands to be replaced “We thank our Blacktown team members for their service and contribution to the business and our Blacktown customers for their loyalty to the store – and we trust they will continue to shop with us at our nearby stores or online,” Mr King said. Myer plans to shrink total floor space by 20% while continuing to invest in the department store’s online offer. Myer Blacktown opened in 1973 and is one of company’s smaller stores, employing about 30 staff. Mr King’s turnaround strategy, launched five years ago, calls for a return to Myer as Australia’s favorite department store and a reversal of the long-term slide in performance. A media report said Myer returned to profitability in September as total sales rose

5.5% to $2.7Bn, despite widespread store closures and travel restrictions The report said the makeover plan involved slashing costs, pulling back on discounting, ramping up online sales and reducing excess floor space by 100,000 square metres – saving $15m to $20m a year in rent – by closing stores or handing back space to landlords.

Myer is also reported to be removing underperforming brands and replacing them with more than 130 new brands. Bendon Lingerie said its stable of brands, including its namesake label, Pleasure State, and heritage brand Fayreform, would rejoin Myer from August. The store also recently added intimates brand Simone Pérèle.

Youth Week celebrations in Blacktown EELEBRATE Youth Week in Blacktown City with a line-up of fun events from Blacktown City Council. Council will host two major events - at Warrick Lane in Blacktown and Dawson Mall in

Mount Druitt - to showcase youth talents and raise awareness about youth issues during April. Youth Week is a week-long celebration organised by young people for young

people in communities across NSW. Youth Week 2022 will run from April 4 to 14, with this year’s theme being ‘It’s up to you’th’. Council’s free events in Blacktown and Mt Druitt will feature free food, live

performances, art, activity stalls, carnival rides and music. Go top council’s website for more information: www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au

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

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

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

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

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Feeling of giving is GOOD EASTERN Creek Tavern is known as a place to come together for those who live and work in Blacktown area and Scarlett feels fortunate to be a part of Eastern Creek for seven years as the Venue Manager.

 SCARLETT DANCSA ’M sure most would know that the feeling of giving and knowing that your contribution has made even the smallest of differences, is invaluable but often it’s hard to find a cause and time to make a difference. I am sure a lot of our customers who come here feel the same way. In September of 2020 we brought our Publinc Communities program to the Eastern Creek community, our membership platform which gives our members access to awesome perks and an opportunity to earn points during their visits, which they can pledge to local causes that mean the most to them. We’ll then turn those points into real cash donations. The team and I set out to find our first charity for our customers to support but with Eastern Creek being an industrial area, we did find it difficult to find a local group to support at first.

Left to Right – Anne Richmond, Jody Berwick, Scarlett Dancsa, Trevor Oldfield, Olivia Janovics and Darren Gibson.

We broadened our search to surrounding areas and came across Kids West. Their stories were so inspiring that I felt this non-profit organisation was a perfect fit for Eastern Creek Tavern. When I spoke to Kids Wests founder Trevor Oldfield it was very clear that the team at Kids West has an endless desire to help, educate and support those in need. With such a great cause it was a no brainer having Kids West join our program. Kids West was founded out of a need to provide funding and support to Western Sydney hospitals. They do an amazing job in the Western Sydney area by raising

Scarlett Dancsa and Trevor Oldfield.

much needed funds for medical equipment, research, and the development of childhood accident awareness and prevention programs. What makes us so proud to have the opportunity to support Kids West is that even though they already do so much work in the Blacktown community, their efforts stretch even further. During challenging times, they have delivered fruit boxes to our frontline workers to show gratitude for their efforts and travelled to communities impacted by drought and floods to deliver presents and joy to kids when it is needed most.

Eastern Creek Tavern’s customers have really got behind Kids West’s work. It’s a cause that resonates with them as many are parents themselves. This is the part that touches us the most: being able to join with our customers to support a cause our community connects with and make real change together. We welcome you to Eastern Creek Tavern and if you want to support a wonderful charity like Kids West or know a group in need of support, we look forward to meeting you.” Scarlett Dancsa is Licensee at Eastern Creek Tavern. Visit: www.easterncreektavern.com.au

Have your say at pop-up forums ESIDENTS have a chance to talk to the Mayor and local councillors with the return of Blacktown City Council’s community pop up forums in April. Council had to cancel some forums and move others online due to COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions in 2021. Mayor Tony Bleasdale said he was delighted to see face-to-face forums returning to each ward across Blacktown City. Council’s 2022 forum program

will also feature themed forums, including a women’s forum, youth forum, budget forum and local business forum. Residents are encouraged to regularly check Council’s website for event details. Community Pop Up Forum Dates • Ward 2: Saturday 2 April, 11am-1pm. Quakers Court Shopping Centre.

• Ward 5: Saturday 9 April, 11am-1pm. Plumpton Marketplace. • Ward 4: Saturday 30 April, 11am-1pm. Location TBA. • Ward 1: Saturday 14 May, 12pm-3pm. Riverstone Festival • Ward 3: Saturday 18 June, 11am-1pm. Location TBA.

Better Foundation raises money for Blacktown and Mt Druitt Hospitals to provide lifesaving additional services and equipment for the people of Blacktown City. Better Foundation is pleased to announce our media collaboration partnership with Blacktown News to provide monthly updates on Blacktown and Mt Druitt Hospitals.

The Community thanks all hospital staff for their dedicated service during the COVID pandemic. Thank you! Updates on the hospital and Gala Dinner Night on Friday 19th November 2022 at the Blacktown Workers Club starting 7pm. can be found on Better Foundation website: https://betterfoundation.org.au/

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

AUSTRALIA POST PROJECT STARTS

1700 new jobs and $55M boost ORK has started on Australia Post’s major new warehouse at Kemps Creek, creating 1700 new construction jobs and injecting more than $55M into Greater Blacktown region. The State Government have released artist’s impressions of the stunning new complex. It is one of several major projects being built within easy reach of Greater Blacktown. Minister for Planning and Homes Anthony Roberts said Australia Post had approval to process more than 400,000 parcels per day at the new warehouse. “Australia Post will be the latest company to move into Goodman and Brickworks’ Oakdale West Industrial Estate in Kemps Creek, joining companies such as Amazon and Coles,” Mr Roberts said.

Another two warehouses “It’ll start processing 200,000 parcels a day when it opens in early 2023, with the ability to scale up to more than 400,000 a day with further automation. “Another two warehouses were also approved in the same application to be built in the Estate, which could create an extra 800 construction jobs and

150 operational jobs and a further $20min investment to the community down the track.” Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said construction on the new warehouse kicked off in January and would be completed early 2023. “As people have turned more and more to online shopping, it’s imperative that our postal system keeps up with the surging demand,” Ms Davies said. “This is a prime location in Kemps Creek and we anticipate the new warehouse to service millions of people in Western Sydney and beyond. The planning system has played a major role in driving investment and keeping people in jobs. “This was one of seven state significant warehouse developments to be approved across Sydney last year, including Woolworths in Auburn and Marsden Parks’ Sydney Business Park.” Together these approvals have paved the way for $693M in investment and created the opportunity for more than 5500 new construction and operation jobs.

For more information on the proposal visit: https://www.planningportal.nsw. gov.au/majorprojects/project/40341

Major projects in the region.

Artist impressions of the project.

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Grant owes his life to mate Echo

RANT Hews has a great reason to be inseparabl e from his best mate and savior, Echo the Maltese Terrier. You see, Echo saved Grant’s life when he fell into a diabetic coma and when Grant was admitted to Blacktown hospital, the pair were lost without each

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other. And we all know the healing power of an animal, a power that should never be underestimated. The heartwarming story begins in late diagnosed with COVID-19 December when Grant was and other underlying health issues at the hospital. More: page 6.

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WESTPOINT backs domestic violence fight: 3 Mayor calls for local vaxx clinic: 6

Blacktown doctor Jana

Pittman competes in SAS

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LACKTOWN Hospital’s famous Olympian Dr Jana Pittman for a grueling survival challenge has swapped her stethoscope in the latest series of ‘SAS’ Jana’s roller coaster ride TV on the Seven Network. of triumph, defeat, failure and makes her ideal for the rigorous format of the show. success throughout her life one of the 18 celebrities The 38-year-old dual Olympian who will be subjected to is extreme physical and psychologica on the upcoming military-styl l testing e show. More page 5.

Why Blacktown is tops for property investment: 14

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Our multicultural and senior stars Message LACKTOWN Council has celebrated some of its most extraordinary residents at a bumper program of award ceremonies, featuring the 2022 Blacktown City Multicultural Awards and Senior Citizen of the Year Award. Council hosted its second ever Multicultural Awards in March, to celebrate leadership, achievement and excellence in Blacktown City’s multicultural communities. The Awards, launched in 2021, acknowledge the contributions made by local people, businesses and services from multicultural backgrounds across four categories, including: Volunteer of the Year, Inspirational Person of the Year, Unfunded Organisation of the Year and Funded Organisation of the Year. Mayor Tony Bleasdale made the award presentations to recipients at a cultural celebration at Glenwood Community Hub which featured performances from Nepalese, Polish, African and Pasifika groups. Volunteer of the Year was Dr Quesim Chelat, a retired scientist and avid researcher in the Quran and science for the last five decades. He has been instrumental in inspiring and mentoring people from multicultural backgrounds in various community projects. Inspirational Person of the Year was Khatol Ahmadzay, who has worked as a Generalist Case Worker for SydWest Multicultural Services in Blacktown since 2008. In the 14 years of professional journey, she has assisted more than one thousand refugees and new arrivals in their settlement in Blacktown City. Unfunded Organisation of the Year was Afghan Women on the Move. Founded by activist Maryam Zahid, Afghan Women on the Move is a safe platform for female survivors of war and trauma, to gather and

from the Mayor

 TONY BLEASDALE AN I take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our local SES and RFS volunteers, community groups, Police, ADF and Fire and Rescue crews, as well as our own Council crews, for their magnificent efforts in the recent floods and the following clean-ups. Without your unselfish efforts the cost to our communities would have been far higher.

WestInvest Program

Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM (third from right) and Cr Carol Israel (second from right) with Afghan Women on the Move founder Maryam Zahid (centre) and team.

participate in arts and cultural programs, outside of religious and political influences. Funded Organisation of the Year was Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA). The Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency is dedicated to informing, linking and empowering people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Two community stalwarts with an unwavering dedication to civic duty have been jointly awarded the Blacktown City Senior Citizen of the Year for 2022.

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Cecil Miller and Kerri Meyer-Gleaves were recognised at Blacktown City’s annual Seniors Concert and Luncheon, marked during the Seniors Festival. Rooty Hill Parkrun volunteer Cecil was acknowledged for his tireless commitment to the event each week as a marshal. At 90 years of age, Cecil has been a volunteer with Rooty Hill Parkrun for three years, bringing “smiles for miles” to all the runners and sharing lollipops with the children.

THE State Government last year announced the WestInvest program, where Councils across Western and South-Western Sydney would be eligible for up to $400 million in funding to improve local communities. Blacktown City Council is currently drawing up its list of priority projects, and a further $1.6B is available to non-government organisations and groups. The funds are for projects that improve your community such as parks and reserves, schools, community infrastructure, arts and culture programs, and even local traffic programs. Details of how to apply for the funding can be found at: https://www.nsw.gov. au/grants-and-funding/westinvest

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

CommenT with MICHELLE ROWLAND

I am available to help with a range of Federal matters, including: • Aged Care & Pensions • Centrelink • Immigration • Medicare • National Disability Insurance Scheme • Taxation & Superannuation Michelle Rowland with her family.

Plan for Western Sydney families  MICHELLE ROWLAND ore and more families are moving to our great electorate of Greenway. As Mayor Tony Bleasdale has said: “Blacktown City is one of the fastest growing regions in New South Wales. It is essential that our families are provided with the very best outdoor recreational facilities to ensure a healthy, active lifestyle.” Our local population is growing at rapid speeds. By 2041, population is expected to grow by 72% in Blacktown, 65% in Acacia Gardens and 318% in Riverstone, to name just a few suburbs in Greenway. Our families deserve the local living infrastructure needed for this explosion in growth. But data aside, I have reached out to community groups from across the electorate and asked them how they would add value to Greenway’s existing infrastructure. This genuine community consultation we have had with Greenway residents, engaging in a range of valuable discussions, has shown us what our residents want for their community. They have asked for more playful, safer and diverse local infrastructure. In response to these requests, Labor is making a $12.8M commitment to deliver the Greenway Better Local Living Plan if elected. This investment will deliver: • Six new and upgraded play spaces across Schofields, Riverstone and Grantham farm; • A new and exciting community water play area to be located in Schofields; • Fencing to make existing play spaces safer in the areas of Par-

Michelle Rowland launching the Better Local Living Plan.

klea, Seven Hills, Lalor Park, Quakers Hill and Kings Langley; and • District scale walking trails in Grantham Farm, Lalor Park and Quakers Hill to help better connect residents into local active transport networks. As a mother of two young daughters, I understand that parents want to provide the very best opportunities for their children. And that’s what this plan aims to do — provide a better future for local families and residents here in Greenway. Michelle Rowland is Shadow Minister for Communications Federal Member for Greenway. Visit: www.michellerowland.com.au

Michelle Rowland MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR GREENWAY

Level 1, Suite 101C, 130 Main Street, Blacktown PO Box 8525, Blacktown NSW 2148 (02) 9671 4780 Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au www.michellerowland.com.au MRowlandMP Authorised by Michelle Rowland MP, Australian Labor Party, Suite 101C, Level 1, 130 Main Street, Blacktown NSW 2148

PROPERTY SHOWCASE 14

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Got something to share? Send your property tips to info@greaterblacktownnews.com.au

ERADICATING A PROPERTY SCOURGE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ISSUE 20 | MARCH 2022

LO OUR CA CI L PA TY PE ’S R

MARCH 2022 | EDITION 130 APRIL 2021 Edition 120

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

Voice of Australia’s most progressive city

BUY NOW PAY LATER How Aussies are taking to the new plan: 2

BUSINESS SURVEY

CHARITY SUPPORT

Why finding staff is the biggest concern: 5

Our favourite charities in two years of COVID: 10

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

LINES

FULL STORY PAGE 10

Here’s how business traditions will change

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

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

TALE OF TWO POOLS SAS CHALLENGE A Parramatta Olympian THIS EDITION

INSIDE

Special S ttribute tto local b business w winners

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

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

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

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

New suburb named BradÀeld

Govy ofÀcially names high tech city at Aerotropolis: 6

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

BEST GIFT SINCE THE OPERA HOUSE

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Family business in COVID

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

How hope really works

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

SALOVS: How hope really happens: 19

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

faces her toughest test

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ISSUE 12 MARCH 2022 LO|CA

NEW

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

Issue 1 | April 2021

PROPERTY RTY UPDATEE

GAME TIME

MICHELLE ROWLAND

Inside the bank of mum and dad: 16

Blacktown FC is B ready to go: 31

How Afghan women typify our diversity: 18

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Youth Needs Our Support VITAL youth service in Blacktown is set to close after missing out on important State Government funding. The Blacktown Youth Support Association’s Youth HQ program helps young people at risk - those who have

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

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

WELCOME to the Blacktown NEWS

Grant owes his life to mate Echo W ELCOME to Blacktown's NEW LOCAL media The News will be distributed across 110 strategic disAs one of the state’s fastest growing cities, Blacktown voice, The Blacktown News (BN). tribution points in the LGA. has undergone a signiĜcant transformation. The Blacktown News is the much-anticipated It's population is set to rise from 400,000 to 540,000 Published in digital and print editions the Blacktown Hews has amedia great reason to be inseparable And we all know the healing newRANT newspaper and digital brand that residents by 2036. power of an animal, a News ođers maximum impact other. for targeted advertising covers Blacktown local news written by experi-Echo The Blacktown News is the printThe and digital media opportunities and reach to Blacktown's popula- never fromLGA hiswith best mate and savior, the Maltese powerdiverse that should be underestimated. heartenced journalists. resource that connects residents and visitors to the city’s tion. Terrier. You see, Echo saved heoffell warming story in late December when Grant was The Blacktown News is Blacktown's ONLY printedGrant’s life diverse community, its progress, business opportunities Withwhen a mission championing community and begins newspaper and is independently managed and lifestyle. business the BN is a proud media partner of theCOVID-19 into a diabetic owned comaand and when Grant wasissues, admitted diagnosed with and other underlying health locally by a management team that has been working in We value your feedback. Go to www.greaterblackGreater Blacktown Chamber of Commerce, the Blacktown More: page 6. to Blacktown each issuesFC.at the hospital.townnews.com.au Blacktown for almosthospital, 20 years. the pair were lost without to share your story. Local Business Awards and Blacktown

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

BLACKTOWN

LOCAL BUSINESS

AWARDS 2022

GALA NIGHT A WIN FOR ALL

Celebrating local business success LACKTOWN City businesses celebrated their night of nights in style on Monday, March 14, with the annual announcement of this year’s winners of the Local Business Awards. The glittering occasion was more special coming as it did after 18 difficult months for the community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and Awards founder Steve Loe said “there were many tears of joy shed on the night, as the Blacktown City business community came together at Blacktown Workers Club to celebrate each other’s

achievements and support one another. “The pandemic has been tough on all members of the community, with businesses hit hard by circumstances that have been beyond anyone’s control. “It was wonderful to see our finalists come together to relax and celebrate in what has been a difficult time for people around the world. “The winners now have their trophies, which will no doubt take pride of place in their premises.” Mr Loe said being a finalist at the Blacktown City Local Business Awards pre-

sentation night was a great achievement. “It’s a reflection of the great effort made by all our local businesses in a particularly challenging time,” he said. “It is with great pride that we celebrate this year’s winners, and I personally congratulate every one of them.” Mr Loe thanked all sponsors involved in making this year’s awards a reality. “The Blacktown City Local Business Awards are only possible with the support of Major partners Blacktown City Council, Blacktown Workers Club, NOVA Employment and Westpoint and Support partners

Seven Hills Plaza, Woodcroft Village, White Key Marketing, Greater Blacktown Business Chamber and Rotary Club of Blacktown City. “Without them, these outstanding businesses would not receive the recognition they deserve.” The Blacktown News is the official media partner for the Blacktown Local Business Awards. See our special feature on the following pages. For more information about the Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au

This year’s honor roll - ALL WINNERS Automotive Services – Powerhouse Auto Electrical & Mechanical Repairs Bakery/Cake Business – InstaCake Barber Shop – Tapered The Barbershop Beauty Services – Laser Clinics Australia – Westpoint Blacktown Café – The Baristas' Shed Dental Services – Finesse Dental – Stanhope Village Early Childhood Centre – Children First – Blacktown Road Education Service – Fizzics Education Fashion – Millers Fashion Club – Seven Hills Plaza Fast Food/Takeaway – Prospect Kebab House Fitness Services – Anytime Fitness – Quakers Hill Florist/Plant Retail Store – Rose Moon Flowers Fresh Food – Lancaster St Fresh Fruit Market

Hairdresser – The Urban Fringe Kings Langley Health Improvement Services – Eastbrooke Blacktown GP Super Clinic Jewellery & Fashion Accessories Store – Prouds The Jewellers – Westpoint Blacktown Manufacturing – Hercules Plastics Most Inclusive Employer – WeLove Kitchen New & Used Motor Vehicles – Heartland Hyundai New Business – BK Collective Performing Arts – Natasha's Arts Theatre Pet Care – Quakers Hill Veterinary Hospital Pharmacy – Barones Pharmacy – Woodcroft Village Professional Services – One Law Group Real Estate Agency – Sapphire Estate Agents Restaurant – Fratelli Pizzeria Service & Trade – Sydney Electrical Contractors

Sole Operator – Serena Jones Photography Specialised Business – KJ's Brush n Canvas Specialised Retail Business – Rebel Sport – Westpoint Blacktown Youth Award – Anna Vasallo, Adeva – The Art of Beauty Business Person of the Year – Helen Perris, Helen Perris Music Studio Business of the Year – Powerhouse Auto Electrical & Mechanical Repairs Blacktown City Council Sustainability Award – The Cutting Room Blacktown City Council Sustainability Award – Highly Commended – Blacktown Workers Club Neighbourhood Good Award – JumpStart 4 Kids Neighbourhood Good Award – Highly Commended Studio Dance Australia

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

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ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Scenes from the recent Blacktown Local Business Awards gala night.

Awards a show of strength  TREVOR OLDFIELD N the face of diversity. Does that sound familiar? Well, it’s an apt saying. When we celebrate the Blacktown local Business Awards with our unique cultural mix, the depth of creativity and passion for success it makes Blacktown City very special indeed. On March 16 with a huge glow and an air of excitement the Blacktown Business

Awards managed by Precedent Productions was held. We witnessed hundreds of businesses celebrating their achievements in the midst of Covid, floods recent bush fires and a somewhat downturn in the economy. Despite this Blacktown has made a statement and that is: We will succeed and grow” As President of the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber, it excites me and gives

me a feeling of pride to represent such a determined Business Community. On behalf of our Board I congratulate those businesses who have taken part in the recent awards and in particular those who have displayed such a high standard in managing their business and as such have been acknowledged by your community. A huge thankyou to Precedent Productions and the many sponsors that made these awards possible.

I would encourage all business large and small to connect with your local Chamber and continue the celebration and the growth of your business during what will be a challenging, but positive 2022. Trevor Oldfield AM KSJ JP is President of the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber. Visit:www.greaterbc.org.au

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Our local engine room  STEPHEN BALI WISH to congratulate Precedent Productions Managing Director and Awards founder Steve Loe for conducting a wonderful Business Awards night. Small business is the engine room of a successful local economy. For every dollar spent at your local store, 64 cents stays in the Blacktown area either through wages or further local spending by the business.

Our local teenagers often get their first job with a local business and many of our local business support local charities and sporting groups. This year was particularly important to support local businesses as they have battled through COVID and many retained their staff at their personal expense. The broad ranging awards including fitness, personal services, retail, food, pet care and manufacturing. With over 20,000 businesses operating in Blacktown City it is

important that we recognise the contribution of our best businesses. Cassandra from The Cutting Room at Grantham Farm estate shops was the winner of the Sustainability Award as they recycle most of the products used including lobbed off hair being packaged and sent off to become hair booms used to clean up ocean oil spills. Mehreen from We Love Kitchens (Seven Hills) is a food manufacturer and winner of the Most Inclusive Employer category. Mehreen employs approximately 40 people with half coming from a disability background.

Mehreen works with all her employees identifying their strengths and abilities and organises their work load and tasks accordingly. As a result, she has a loyal workforce with little staff turnover. Congratulations to all the businesses that participated in the awards. The Blacktown business community is a wonderful asset to our local community. Stephen Bali is State Member for Blacktown.

BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

KJ's Brush and Canvass studio and below accepting their award.

Artistic journey a true success JS Brush & Canvass is the winner of the Specialised Business Category of the 2021 Blacktown City Local Business Awards. Kavitha Jeyakumar, popularly known as KJ, is a visual artist based at Stanhope Gardens and the Ponds in the in Blacktown region. And her artistic journey is a true success story. Kavitha runs a visual art school that conducts a visual art program for budding and experienced visual artists. Kavitha started her passion for art from very young age and she drew her inspirations while travelling various countries of the subcontinent during the civil war in Sri Lanka. This exposure fueled her passion for the visual arts so she started a Diploma in Visual Arts and embarked on her career in visual art. Originally, Kavitha was an accountant by profession. Kavitha pursed her uniqueness and interpretation of her art and with the encouragement and support of her patrons, she has been able to establish her own platform as a popular visual artist in Western Sydney. And she has won the hearts of many patrons, reflected in her social media following of more than 10,000 people. Kavitha’s paintings are characteristically simple in composition and content; shapes are delineated with dark outline and a multi vibrant color often is used to describe form.

and culture of South Asia in Sydney. Kavitha’s artistic skill along with her people management has meant community organisations use Kavitha for their community-based art programs for the elderly. She also works with various age groups ranging from four to 80 years and spends time with seniors in their retirement villages helping them regain their confidence and express their feeling in the form of colors while working with them in recreating visual master pieces.

Working with ADHJA and autism clients

This style highlights her deft draughtsman ship and skillful pictorial arrangement. Kavitha’s confidence in her work has led to her widespread popularity with invitations to regularly exhibit her paintings at art shows and galleries such Springwood Art Festival, NSW parliament and Blacktown Library at Stanhope Gardens. As part of the recognition of her artistic skill, she was the art curator for SAFAL Fest 2019, a festival celebrating the art

Kavitha works with ADHD and Autism clients and helps them in improving their attention while relieving their stress levels as an art Therapist. Plus, Kavitha works with various councils such Cumberland, Blacktown, Parramatta and Strathfield Councils on their community-based events, either conducting visual art workshops during the events or exhibiting her own paintings through community organizations. As a result of such commitment in serving the community and her excellent skill

in visual art, Kavitha has received various awards such as Volunteer of the Year, Professional of the Year and Outstanding Business person of the year in 2019 and 2020. Her recent addition the list of the awards is the winner of the Gargi award for the year 2020 for her outshined achieved in the field of visual arts. Kavitha was awarded first prize in the painting competition organised by Consulate of India, Sydney in 2021 as part of the 75th year of Indian Independence celebrations. It has been an amazing success story for the lady who started KJS Brush & Canvass in 2016 as an art school with only a handful of students. Today KJS has about 150 students with the ages ranging from year four to year 80 and in the year 2020-21, had an annual turnaround of more than 400 Australian and International students on various programs such as term lessons, monthly lessons, school holiday programs, seniors workshops , corporate training and online art sessions. And Kavitha has big plans for 2022, building KJS operations to the next level and continuing to support her communities. She said KJS would continue to hold Australia wide visual art competitions and continue its collaborations with organisations to help its students. Visit: www.kjsbrushncanvas.com.au

Kings Langley salon a winner

HE Urban Fringe at Kings Langley has won the coveted Hairdressers Award at the Blacktown City Local Business Awards. The Urban Fringe is an award-winning, well-established salon which has been servicing the local community for more than 20 years. They boast a talented, experienced and well-rounded team, specialising in foils, colors, cuts, extensions and treatments. The expert team also provides high quality products and advice so that clients can look after their hair between visits. The salon provides thorough consultations for all clients if required, so that they receive the look they are after and understand time and cost up front.

Winning team at Urban Fringe.

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

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BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Blacktown

The Urban Frings Kings Langley has won the coveted Outstanding Hairdressers Award, at the Blacktown City Local Business Awards. A modern, well established salon which has been servicing the local community for more than 20 years. They boast a talented, experienced and well rounded team, specialising in foils, colours, cuts, extensions and treatments. The team also provides quality products and advice for clients to look after their hair between visits! Thorough consultations are provided for all clients as required, so that they recieve the look they want, and fully understand the time and cost upfront.

The Urban Fringe Kings Langley Shop 18A, 125 James Cook Drive Kings Langley 2147 (02) 9674 3250

Message from Mayor Tony Bleasdale, OAM Blacktown City Council is proud to be a major sponsor of the Blacktown City and Mount Druitt St Marys Local Business Awards. Blacktown is one of the fastest growing cities in Australia, with our current population of over 400,000 forecast to grow to over 600,000 residents within 20 years. Our economy is over $22 billion and based on the trading activity of nearly 27,000 local businesses. 'XULQJ WKHVH GLI¿FXOW WLPHV ZH NQRZ that it is particularly important for our Council to support local businesses who are weathering the current storm and uncertainty of this pandemic. The Local Business Awards is an opportunity for our community to come together and acknowledge the great work our local businesses are doing in providing jobs, goods and services to support our City’s people.

Blacktown City blacktown.nsw.gov.au

BLACKTOWN SNAPSHOT 27,000 Registered businesses supporting

153,000 Local jobs

403,000 Population $ 22 billion Economy S 4% Average economic growth rate

/08 "33*7*/( The exciting transformation of the Blacktown CBD has begun

I am proud to recognise that several Council businesses were nominated in their categories, including Blacktown International 6SRUWVSDUN ¿WQHVV FHQWUH D ZLQQHU LQ WKH 0RXQW 'UXLWW 6W 0DU\V awards. &RQJUDWXODWLRQV WR DOO ZLQQHUV DQG ¿QDOLVWV LQ WKH $ZDUGV

New urban plaza

Warrick Lane Precinct redevelopment

ACU university campus

For more information visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/warricklane

450+ car spaces

BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

WE CONGRATULATE ALL THOSE BUSINESSES WHO WERE FINALISTS AND WINNERS IN THE RECENT PRECEDENT LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS. A very special congratulations to those businesses who have won their category and on behalf of our community thankyou for the quality of service you provide. We invite you to continue to celebrate your success and help take your business to the next level by joining the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber.

- SPECIAL OFFER To celebrate your achievement, if your business was a finalist or a winner in the Blacktown Local Business Awards we will offer you a 50% reduction in General, Bronze or Silver membership during the month of April.

Visit www.greaterbbc.org.au for membership application and pricing or phone President Trevor Oldﬁeld on 0419 992 826.

The Blacktown News congratulates all winners in the 2021 Blacktown Local Business Awards. We are proud of our long-standing support of these awards and we are honoured to be working alongside the businesses of Blacktown to play our part in showcasing your success and promoting your business to the people of Blacktown and Western Sydney.

This edition is available 24/7 online for download and viewing. Don't hesitate to contact us if we can assist you with any future marketing needs.

www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au | www.facebook.com/theblacktownnews

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

BLACKTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Hercules realises big potential ERCULES Plastics of Arndell Park has won the Manufacturing category at the 2022 Blacktown City Local Business Awards. The business was established in 1997 when the owners saw the potential of the plastics industry. Since then they have grown to be one of the leading plastic fabricators in Australia. In 2014 they further expanded their company and purchased a new 1200sqm workshop to carry out inhouse fabrication by using the latest technology and equipment. Today Hercules Plastics has developed an enviable reputation in designing, manufacturing and servicing a wide range of high-quality plastic products for countless industries. It is positioned at the forefront of the industry as leaders in innovative design and they pride themselves on always being one step ahead in their thinking and not being limiting to current practices. The team of experts regularly travel overseas to ‘look outside the box’ which means they provide a state of the art, efficient and friendly service that the loyal customer base relies on. The facility is conveniently located close to all major motorways and the safe and efficient production house is fitted with the latest and most innovative equipment and is solely dedicated to the production of outstanding plastic fabrication. And their service and production team consists of highly skilled and qualified tradesman who are constantly looking to develop their knowledge and skills by regularly undertaking training courses in Australia and overseas to keep ahead of their field.

Hercules HQ.

Aaron Nolan, Managing Director.

Roshan Batuvita, Mechanical Design Engineer.

Shane Archiebold,Factory Manger.

Hercules Plastics Pty Ltd

+61 2 9896 2416 14 Kenoma Place, Arndell Park NSW 2148 Visit: www.herculesplastics.com

admin@herculesplastics.com.au www.herculesplastics.com

AutO

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

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

dampers. AM says the model’s spring rates are firmer (50 per cent up front and 40 per cent at the rear), combined with topmount stiffness increasing by 13 per cent and anti-roll bars that are five per cent stiffer at the front and a staggering 41 per softer at the rear.

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

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

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

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

Crosswords/Games

Solutions page 31

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Research rooms 5. North African expanse 11. Similar type 14. Nitrogenous waste 15. Readied 16. Date or age beginning 17. Driver's ___ 18. Blow to pieces 20. Bowler, but not golfer 21. Fox chaser? 22. Orbital extreme 23. Not so cordial 25. Tot tenders 26. They're twirled in parades 28. Rome septet 29. Take effect, in legalspeak 30. Island of entertainment 31. So ___ 34. Emulated Lady Godiva 35. Less firm, maybe 36. Add a kick to 37. Common tip jar bill 38. Moisten, poetically 39. Pulverize 40. Repaired a shoe 41. Moves unobtrusively 42. Worldly, not spiritual 45. "Haystacks" artist 46. Collar, for cops 47. Whim 48. Small handful 51. Call girl 53. Bridges of film 54. Tiny particle 55. Ducks 56. Caveat to a buyer 57. Lacking liquid 58. Colt's sound 59. Bank adjuncts

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

TraveL

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

BACK TO LIFE ON A DECK CHAIR

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

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

Pacific Adventure will be in Sydney from October 22, sailing to Adelaide for the first of four cruises.

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

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

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

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

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

Viking Viking will have two of its ocean ships in local waters for the 2022-2023 Australia and New Zealand cruise season to round

out the year. Viking Orion will return to her seasonal Sydney and Auckland home ports between November and March 2023, while Viking Mars arrives in Sydney in December.

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

Oceania Cruises Oceania Cruises will be cruising from Sydney to Bali from December on a 14 day

cruise to Bali on Regatta, with another cruise from Sydney to Auckland for 14 days leaving in January 2023.

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

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

Games Solutions

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

TrendS

TOP FIVE TRENDS FOR 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FitnesS

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

10 REASONS YOU SHOULD BE EXERCISING

Benefits of regular routines  ADAM SIMPSON F you are not currently exercising regularly, you should be! There are so many benefits of a regular exercise routine. My tip to you is find a form of exercise that you enjoy and stick to it. Here are 10 great reasons that you should be exercising.

1. Exercise will give you a daily boost of energy By getting your heart and muscles pumping, your body will feel like it has a boost of energy. You will not only feel like you have more energy while you are exercising but you will feel that for the rest of the day too. You will get a whole lot more done if you adopt exercise into your daily routine.

2. Exercise will build up your fitness Exercising regularly is going to improve your body’s ability to transport blood an oxygen around your body. Which means day to day tasks are going to feel a lot easier if you have a good fitness level. Keeping up with the kids or doing the household chores will be a breeze if you exercise consistently.

3. Exercise will improve your mood Doing a workout is a great way to reduce your stress levels, when you exercise “feel good hormones” are released improving your mood. In addition, exercise is great for clearing your mind when you

have a lot on your mind. I promise you those thoughts won’t matter when all you can think about is your next breath of air.

4. Exercise will help you look your best Not only will exercise help you feel good, you will look your best too. Losing body fat and gaining lean muscle will only improve your physical appearance. If you want to look your best, you need to exercise regularly.

5. Exercise helps build muscle and strengthen your bones More muscle means more strength, the stronger you are the easier day to day tasks will become. Carrying the groceries or the kids will only be easier if you have built some muscle up. Not only that it is a great strategy for long term weight maintenance. It will be easier to keep body fat off. Strong bones mean a reduced risk of osteoporosis later in life.

6. Exercise can improve your skin Exercising will increase your body’s production of antioxidants, which help protect your skin cells. While you exercise your body will pump blood all around your body, this will also help with delaying ageing of your skin.

7. Exercise can improve your sleep Regular exercise has also been shown to improve your sleep. Get yourself into a good exercise routine and your sleep will benefit.

8. Exercise helps with long term illness Not exercising will mean you are at a greater risk of many chronic illnesses. Decrease your chances of developing Type 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, High cholesterol and many forms of cancer.

9. Exercise can speed up your recovery from an injury Did you know that regular exercise can even improve your bodies pain tolerance threshold? If you have an injury or suffer from chronic pain, see your health practitioner for a tailored exercise plan

and you will recover at a much faster rate.

10. Exercise can improve your sex life Regular exercise will boost your sex drive and staying physically fit an active will only improve your performance. If you aren’t regularly exercising you now have 10 great reasons on why you should start tomorrow. Find something fun and get started. Adam Simpson is lead trainer and founder at Repetitions Group fitness and Personal Training. Visit: www.repetitionspt.com.au

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

CoveR StorY

TOO YOUNG TO RETIRE

So Luigi wants to help others  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM hen Luigi De Luca sold his ‘La Cremeria De Luca’ Gelato Café in Five dock last year he found retirement boring and believed he still had so much to give to struggling businesses in the Blacktown area. Luigi, 64, has lived in Blacktown for three years and this week he said the CBD was looking “a little tired” and businesses were struggling. “We need to get some life back into the area,” he said. “I want to assist small and family businesses who need some guidance and help running and growing their business,” he said. And he is not looking for a reward, he just wants to use his expertise to help younger businesspeople in need of some guidance, Luigi was a leading light in the Italian community and Inner West business when his Café on a prominent corner of the Great Northern Rd became ‘the place to go’ for gelato, hot chocolate or coffee with a pastry in Sydney. Luigi’s father Salvatore first started selling gelato on the streets of Messina, Sicily, in 1937. At the time Salvatore said: “If you want to be rich, don’t make gelato”. “My father grew up in Messina, the third largest city in Sicily and I grew up alongside him learning the art of making hot chocolate and gelato. “Hot chocolate is an old-fashioned tradition that is as much about having a good time and sharing a nice conversation as it is enjoying a luxurious treat. A cup of hot chocolate is very calming,” he said. In 1985 Luigi opened ‘Cremeria Siciliana’ with his wife Gavina and then he came to Sydney consulting for mass production Gelato houses which were suffering and decided to stay. In 1995 he opened the first free standing gelateria ‘La Cremeria’ in Norton St, Leichardt. In 2000, ‘De Luca Gelateria’ opened just across from the famous Bondi Beach. In 2013, the De Luca’s opened ‘Cremeria De Luca’ in Five Dock and the rest is history with the Café becoming a Sydney institution: “a little piece of Italy in Five Dock”, as one leading publication said..

There are businesses struggling to survive “A cup of hot chocolate might seem pretty simple, but it's tied in with socialising and that makes me very happy. I'm shocked and happily surprised that I sometimes have three generations of the one family coming in for a hot chocolate at eight or nine o'clock at night–that is how life in Sicily is and that is how life should be,” he said. Luigi sold the café and decided to retire, but this super charged hospitality and public relations expert knew he still had a lot to give. “I just turned 64 and, for many businesses, I am too old to be hired,” he said. “My idea is that people like me have enough experience to help troubled businesses. “I want to help small family businesses that have survival problems and do not have the skills to create new ideas or dishes to offer to customers. “Some people think I'm too old or too qualified, but I am available to help those small family businesses in the cafes, catering, pastry, gelato, ice cream and food sector in general.” Luigi is the perfect man to create new dishes, “giving new light to the place”.

Luigi Da Luca is ready to help Blacktown businesses.

“My offer is to give new hope and a strategy for success to the business.” “I can guarantee you that in our community there are family members with commercial activities that are struggling to survive, especially after the crisis caused by COVID-19.” Luigi believes a “hands on” personal approach is much better that trying to improve a business through institutional organizations. “I can assure you this type of advice does not help those who do not even have time to read that type of material. It is advice aimed only at those who can dedicate themselves to numbers and then analyse the problem without touching the real problem.” His list of achievements is impressive. “I can help you with sauces, salad dressings, desserts, risotto, bruschetta. I will help you

His father Salvatore’s original mobile gelato café in Messina.

save on semi-finished products to make ice cream, gelato, sorbets or pastry and custard, or even your electricity consumption. “I can help you organize a themed evening or how to cook for many people in an organized way. “People like me who want to offer their experience to improve the lives of others, have the right to work and should not be seen as useless or cumbersome in the premises. “Anyone who wants my help to relaunch their business, come forward without fear of wasting time or money. Of course, I am available to help and ask for no reward.“ Luigi is free to assist businesses in the Blacktown area only. Contact him on: luigi.dl.volunteer@ gmail.com His Facebook page is: Luigi Da Luca (Passion Evaluator)

Women's Health

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

HEALTH AT EVERY SIZE

Appearance is only one aspect  ANNEKA FINN YPICAL images in the media of slim women can often be seen as what a ‘healthy women’ should look like. But what does it mean to ‘be healthy’? The outside appearance is only one aspect. How can we ‘be healthy’ if we don’t fit this picture? When I talk with my clients about their weight, appearance and BMI I try my best to help them shift focus from the outcome. The outcome could refer to for example as; a certain number on the scale, a dress size or an item of clothing that they used to be able to fit into. These are all imperial measures of what I find my clients place all the emphasis on as the determining factor of their success. Am I healthy… or not? Have I succeeded in the most recent diet… or not? Placing all the emphasis on the outcome lends itself to an all or nothing approach which can lead to extremely dangerous ‘yo-yo’ dieting and never truly being satisfied with the skin you are in. The question is then, how do we measure success and how do we ‘be healthy’? Attention needs to shift from the outcome to the process. The everyday actions that contribute to overall health. The small daily practices that when performed for a prolonged period of time contribute to being a healthier person. These may include for example (but by no

means limited to); eating your vegetables, limiting processed foods, managing stress, getting enough sleep and daily movement. One great technique to nailing these small goals is to start by writing them down on a piece of paper or in your phone. Let me use an example; my goal is to drink less alcohol. The process is limiting my intake of alcohol and the outcome could be for exam-

ple having a healthier liver and being able to maintain a healthy body weight. Now this goal needs to be broken down further so it is specific and most importantly ACHIEVABLE! If goals are unachievable then you will feel like a failure and be less likely to stick with the health behavior. Using the example of alcohol some furthermore specific strategies to achieving this goal may include: • limiting wine to Friday and Satur-

day nights. • no alcohol on a school night. • having no more than 2 small glasses at one sitting. • having one non-alcoholic drink or every glass of wine. Lastly to further promote success we need to create an environment that will support this goal. It might look like; purchasing mini bottles of wine, buying a smaller wine glass, having non-alcoholic drinks on hand or telling your partner and friends about your goals so they can support you. As a health practitioner I feel it is my role to help my clients formulate goals and strategies that will help them improve their health. We do this together in a systematic process to develop a plan of attack of how those goals are best going to be achieved. If at first the goal is difficult to achieve it is then my role to provide further suggestions and support. It might take a while to trial different strategies until you find one that fits your lifestyle and most importantly is sustainable long term. Long term healthy habits maintained most of the time is wht leads to being a healthier person. We are all different and need an individualised approach to our nutrition and health. Anneka Finn is an Accredited practicing dietitian & nutritionist. Visit www.afinndiet.com. Contact: anneka.dietitian@gmail.com

Men's Health

I FEEL MY LIFE IS GOING ROUND IN CIRCLES…

How to escape GROUNDHOG DAY  MINDSET | MARCUS WHEAN HE phrase “Groundhog Day” has been etched into our psyche courtesy of the famous 1990’s movie of the same name starring Bill Murray. For those who know it, Bill’s character is perpetually stuck waking up to the same day over and over. Stories like Groundhog Day speak to a very relevant and relatable issue many of us encounter. That is, we are often living our own Groundhog Day; living in a revolving door; a life full of copy and paste patterns and habits. It can be so frustrating especially if we are aware of it. We may have goals. We may want to change and even know what we need to do. But so often and commonly we don’t do anything and it’s a tragedy in my opinion. Why? Why do we fail to take action? Why do we stay in a pattern of living that we don’t want to be in? Why, if we feel unfulfilled and unhappy as men, and stress ourselves out, do we not go–“righto, that’s it, that’s enough”? In short, change is hard. And whilst we may even have a life that looks good on the outside, if the inside life – our thoughts, emotions etc are uneasy, unhappy, stressed etc then no amount of ‘outside’ pleasures is going to change that. And it’s likely that your idea of happiness and fulfilment was to be derived from

attaining external pleasures and achieving external successes. These things aren’t to be demonised and they are positive things, but they can never make us truly happy and fulfilled as men unless our inner worlds are aligned with our outer world. When these are at odds we experience self-doubt, stress, anxiety or even depression. The main reason we fail to take consistent action to live and be the man we feel we can be is because of fear and resistance. We think and do the things we do every day because they are rooted in significant past experiences throughout our critical developmental periods. We do what we do to maximise our life experience, but our primary motivator, whether we’re conscious of his or not, is fear.

Better the devil we know As a consequence, we are resistant to change – even for the perceived better. Change is unknown and ‘better the devil we know’, right! This leads to frustrations and inner questioning of ourselves like – “why can’t I change”? Why don’t I feel good enough as a man”? or “…not living the life or being the ‘man’ I think I should be”. The word ‘should’ is key here and again speaks to the past and your idea of yourself has been shaped by how you think you should be; what you believe to be acceptable by others and to yourself. So, when trying to change you’re going

up against long held and ‘die-hard’ belief systems of what you think you should be, or even more likely, how you think you shouldn’t be’. This creates strong avoidant and resistant emotions to change. The first step is to get conscious of this. Until then nothing is going to change and you’re going to chase more and more validation and fulfillment from the outside and from worldly pursuits. Ironically the more you try outwardly to ‘fix’ your inward self, the more frustrated and stressed you can feel. Even worse, can lead to ‘breakdowns’, relationship and mental health issues. What we need to change is our thinking and our goals. They are interconnected and they must be. You must change your mindset and address patterns of negative thinking to do things differently. And to support this you need to have and set goals that are meaningful to you. Truly to you! I suggest one change and one goal at a time. It could be around health

or your work. But the goal gives you a focal point and a motivating reason to also change your thoughts. The actions required to achieve your goal mean you need to think differently in order to take the necessary steps. When you do things differently along with thinking about yourself and the things you’re doing differently, this creates new networks in your brain and the more consistent you are with these changes the more reinforced it becomes. Thus, change is made and maintained. Groundhog Day no more. Start small. Start with one thing at a time. Little by little we build our power. We need to build confidence slowly and trust the process. You know you want to change, and you can. Sometimes some guidance is all you need. The more you’re doing and living the life and way you want to, the happier and more fulfilled you’ll feel as a man. As a special gift to readers, I’m giving away my E-Book to anyone who’d like to learn about this in more detail to work on their mindset and break free of their own little Groundhog Day. Just click on the link: https://adobe.ly/3DsybIS I hope you enjoy and find it helpful. You’ve got this! Marcus Whelan is a Registered Psychologist and Mental Fitness Coachwith 10+ years’ experience in private practice. He holds undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in psychology and education. Visit: www. marcuswhelanpsychology.com.au

FilM

ISSUE 13 | April 2022

THE LOST CITY – 4 STARS DVENTURE returns to the big screen in The Lost City; a hilariously enjoyable, rom-com adventure hybrid full of snarky laughs and big-name cameos. Loretta (Sandra Bullock) is a romance novelist, whose enthusiasm for the craft has substantially dimmed since her husband passed away. Now, as she released her latest novel, she finds herself keen to hang up the pen. Her cover model, Alan (Channing Tatum)–or Dash, the character’s name he is known by for the fans who come to see him–hates this idea, because his life has blossomed through his association with the famous series. Amidst a dramatic book tour, with the two at one another’s throats, Abigail Fairfax (Daniel Radcliffe) kidnaps Loretta. He believes that Loretta has translated the hidden text to find an ancient treasure in The Lost City of D, one of the main settings of her latest novel. Alan believes he is the man to track her down and save her– albeit with the help of one Jack Trainer (Brad Pitt), former special ops. The Lost City requires a certain suspension of disbelief off the bat, mainly for the idea that society in any sense would immortalize a cover model in the way that this film does Dash. Despite this, once you do settle in and let those gripes go, you find yourself having a lot of fun with this piece. Principally, that’s down to the zinging banter between the two leads. Bullock, who has proven time and time again her comedic chops, once again cements herself as one of the best actors in Hollywood. She’s funny, believably actionable, and witty.

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

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

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

MORBIUS – 2 STARS UDDLED, with flashes of brilliance, but an overall sense of ‘why?’, Morbius is a film that isn’t so much bad or good, as confus-

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

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

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

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

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

Blacktown News - April 2022

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