DOONSIDE CHAMPION
RCharles Keys OAM at age 90 recently passed away with other 400 people in attendance at Pinegrove to celebrate his life. Ron was described by many as a most prolific advocate, mentor, volunteer, administrator, and coach for the Doonside area. Ron and his wife Dawn, who passed away in 2016, were a formidable team who did so much for the Doonside sporting community over the past 50 years. More inside.
Ron Keys 90th at DLAC.
Nominations are now open for the Blacktown City Woman of the Year
International Women’s Day is celebrated globally each year on 8 March to celebrate women’s achievements, and to highlight equality worldwide.
To highlight this day, we recognise the outstanding achievement of women within the local community through voluntary or paid work.
Nominations for Blacktown City’s Woman of the Year are now open and will close at 11.59 pm on Sunday 16 February 2025.
Nominees should demonstrate this year’s #MarchForward theme, including women who have:
• made an outstanding contribution to their local community
• inspired others to contribute to their local community
• risen above adversity to reach their goals
• consistently demonstrated exceptional and progressive leadership
• mentored and inspired other women
• demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity.
To find out more or nominate someone, visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/IWD
There
• Sportsperson of the
• Junior Sportsperson of the Year
• Sportsperson with a
• Sports Official of the
• Coach of the
• Volunteer of the Year
• Team of the Year
• Club of the Year
• Administrator of the Year
• Mayoral Shield.
To nominate someone, visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/sportsawards
Upcoming community events
Carp fish-out at Lake Woodcroft
Saturday 15 February from 7 am to 10 am
Lake Woodcroft, Antique Crescent, Woodcroft
Come join us for a free family friendly fishing event at Lake Woodcroft to help reduce Carp numbers and improve the health of Blacktown City’s waterways.
There will be fun interactive activities and educational stalls for adults and children.
There will also be prizes for the longest carp caught, smallest carp caught and the most carp caught.
Bookings are essential. Participants must hold a valid fishing licence. For more information or to book visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/carpfishout
Blacktown City Art Prize
Until Friday 28 March during operating hours
The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, 78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown
Start your year of art with the 2025 Blacktown City Art Prize exhibition at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre!
Now in its 29th year, the prize is an open-call, open-themed opportunity for artists locally and nationally to exhibit their work and have a chance to win 1 of 5 cash prizes!
The 2025 exhibition showcases the creativity of Blacktown’s community at its heart. Want to have your say who takes home a prize? Vote for your favourite artwork in the People’s Choice Prize. The winner will be announced in the final week of the exhibition.
VALE RON, CHAMPION OF DOONSIDE Wonderful legacy for community
RONALD (Ron) Charles
Keys OAM at age 90 recently passed away with other 400 people in attendance at Pinegrove to celebrate his life. Ron was described by many as a most prolific advocate, mentor, volunteer, administrator, and coach for the Doonside area.
Ron and his wife Dawn, who passed away in 2016, were a formidable team who did so much for the Doonside sporting community over the past 50 years.
Ron was born in Liverpool on 4th February 1934, where he grew up with his parents and siblings, Bob, Harold, and Gladys. He completed his TAFE apprenticeship as a fitter mechanic. He worked on installing the original channel 9 tower before joining the Navy, working on ships and submarines, and later with weapons and support services; and as a national serviceman.
Ron married Dawn on 20/2/1959 and soon afterwards moved to Doonside.
Ron was a footy player in his younger days playing for Leichardt Wanderers JRLFC.
A foundation member of the Doonside Little Athletics Club in 1981, Ron served as treasurer for over 40 years, timekeeper, executive member, mentor for emerging athletes and provided additional coaching sessions. Ron also trained teams in the early years of the Doonside Junior Rugby League Club as well as serving as an executive member of Nepean Senior Athletics Club, NSW Racewalking Club and was the current President of the Parklea Golf Club. Ron was involved
with the Blacktown Relay-forLife, and the Blacktown fun runs particularly in the 1980’s with dry land regatta events.
Michelle, his daughter, described Ron as one who touched the hearts and souls of everyone he met because of his kindness, authenticity and sense of humour which was very cheeky.
Ron was awarded OAM in 2009 for his community service particularly for athletics with his technical role as timekeeper from local
clubs through to nationals and international events including the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games. Ron was inducted into the 2018 Little Athletics Australia Roll of Excellence and received the Blacktown City Council 2005 Sports Administrator of the Year Award.
Whether it was his family or athletes, he made everyone feel like they can do anything in life. It is partly why DLAC has achieved so many State and National athletes including Debbie Sosimenko (Olympic Hammer thrower) and Craig Moore (Socceroo Captain).
Ron never stopped serving our community even with his failing health and at the age of 90, was still coaching until seven weeks ago.
Ron’s love for animals and the environment has spurred on his son, Wayne to undertake nature documentaries across Western Sydney and The Blue Mountains. He is survived by his daughter Michelle and son Wayne both of whom are wonderful people living up to
their parents’ legacy. Ron was an amazing family man, always encouraging and supportive. He is survived by his two children, 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Ron is an enormous loss to his family and the broader local community. He will be sadly missed.
Set in one of the fastest growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master planned community of new homes, wide open spaces, exceptional new schools and expanding dining and retail precincts.
Premium land is scheduled to release soon and there’s a lot to fit every budget and lifestyle.
• Well positioned near the rapidly expanding Oran Park Town Centre
• Close proximity to award-winning parks, green spaces and waterways
• Easy build lots ranging from 300m 2 to 600m 2
Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer. Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.
Vale Ronald (Ron) Charles Keys OAM
Legend: Ron Keys.
Ron celebrating his 90rh.
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ISSUE 47 | February 2025
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BLACKTOWN’S TRUSTED LOCAL MEDIA VOICE
COMMUNITY FOOD PANTRY AND LIBRARY REBUILT
Blacktown’s lifeline for vulnerable
BLACKTOWN based the Harman Foundation has announced the transformation of its long-standing community food pantry and Library at the HOPE Multicultural Hub.
Since its inception in 2022, this initiative has been a vital lifeline for vulnerable individuals and families, providing essential food items and encouraging literacy.
Thanks to the leadership and generous support of Parklea Correctional Centre Governor Wayne Taylor, the pantry and library were rebuilt and upgraded with a waterproof cabinet in January under the management of the prison’s Senior Manager Operational Support Services Michael Pugsley.
The thoughtful donation from MTC Australia, which operates Parklea on behalf of Corrective Services NSW, is a game-changing gift for the community, enhancing the accessibility and durability of this critical resource.
"We’ve been operating this pantry and library for over two years, but we couldn’t afford to make it weatherproof," said Maninder Singh, Chair of the Harman Foundation.
"This incredible donation from MTC Australia, guided by Parklea Governor Wayne Taylor, has provided a much-needed upgrade. It’s an amazing gift for the community around the
Westpoint area, ensuring this service can continue to support those in need, rain or shine."
Governor Taylor said MTC Australia is proud to assist the Harman Foundation by utilising the expertise of overseers in the prison’s metal shop, who helped the inmates construct the cabinet, and the facilities management team, who installed it.
“We have partnered with the Harman Foundation on several community projects over the past couple of years,
including providing vegetables grown by inmates for food hampers, and donating wooden toys inmates made for Christmas presents,” Governor Taylor said.
“When they told us they needed a waterproof cabinet for their charity, I knew this was something we could easily do, and we were keen to help.”
The Harman Foundation’s services extend beyond the food pantry and library. The Foundation provides essential support in the form of domestic and family violence services, chaplaincy care,
and a 24/7 helpline. These initiatives are critical to supporting vulnerable community members in times of crisis, offering them safety, compassion, and guidance when they need it most.
The food pantry distributes approximately 50 to 80 kilograms of groceries weekly, helping individuals and families who face financial hardship, mental health challenges, or are otherwise unable to access quality food. The pantry’s mission is to maintain dignity and respect for those struggling, providing them with essentials in a safe and welcoming way.
The library, which exchanges 30 to 40 books weekly, has become a beloved community asset, promoting reading and learning among both children and adults.
The Harman Foundation is calling on businesses, corporates, and individuals to support this vital community initiative. Regular donations, either monetary or in-kind (especially long-life food items), are crucial to ensuring the food pantry remains fully stocked.
The waterproof cabinet is a testament to the positive impact of community partnerships. The project reflects the generosity and compassion of those involved at Parklea, creating lasting benefits for Blacktown’s residents.
Enquiries to 1800 116 675 or via email at contactus@harmanfoundation.org.au.
The new food pantry and library.
BETTER BUS SERVICES CONNECT NORTH-WEST
Rouse Hill, Riverstone, Schofields benefit
NORTH-West Sydney residents can look forward to more buses, more often with a New Year timetable shakeup.
Major routes connecting areas including Tallawong, Rouse Hill, Riverstone, Box Hill, Bella Vista and North Kellyville will see more services, longer operating hours, and increased frequency for some routes, especially at peak times.
106 new services each week will link commuters to North West metro stations. They join 144 services each week that started moving commuters to Metro Stations on Sydney’s North Shore in August.
These changes mean more commuters can leave the car at home and enjoy a combination of frequent and reliable metro and bus services.
Bus routes that link commuters in the north west to Rouse Hill Metro station will see extra services, including the 601, 605, 643, 740, 742, 746, 747 and the 748.
In Riverstone and Tallawong, services on route 742 between Riverstone and Rouse Hill will run more frequently across the week –every 30 minutes during morning and afternoon peak periods, weeknights, and on weekends between 8am and 6pm. Buses will also run
until later in the night on all days of the week.
One major change is to route 748, which will now extend to the growing community of Melonba and operate via Jerralong Drive in Schofields to give growing suburbs better access to bus services. The 748 will then connect with train and metro services at Schofields and Tallawong.
Bus services in the growing Gables and Box Hill area are also
Hambledon Road North CA26
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment
INVITATION TO REGISTER AN INTEREST
Artefact Heritage and Environment, on behalf of Blacktown City Council (the proponent), is undertaking an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment (ACHAR) for a proposed extension of Hambledon Road between Schofields Road to Garfield Road East, Riverstone. The proposed works include an extension of the current two laned road to a four-lane divided road, and includes signalised intersections, cycleways, pathways, landscaping and street lighting.
Two ACHARs for the project have previously been prepared by Eco Logical in 2021 and Urbis in 2023. However, as Aboriginal stakeholder consultation must not have gaps greater than six months, new consultation with members of the Aboriginal community must be undertaken. Artefact Heritage have been engaged to prepare an ACHAR to support an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) application for the proposal.
The contact details for the proponent are: Ben Condren Blacktown Council ben.condren@blacktown.nsw.gov.au
The study area is located within Blacktown City LGA. We are inviting registrations of interest in the project from Aboriginal groups and individuals who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the significance of Aboriginal objects and/or places in the locality of the project. Please note that the consultation guidelines require us to provide details of Registered Aboriginal Parties to Heritage NSW (formerly Office of Environment and Heritage) and the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC). In your response could you please advise if you would not like your details to be provided.
Please register your interest in the project by end of day on 20 February 2025, by contacting: Aboriginal Heritage Consultation Artefact Heritage
Suite 56, Jones Bay Wharf, 26-32 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont NSW 2009 consultation@artefact.net.au
improving, with the 643 route frequency increasing to every 15 minutes in the morning and afternoon peak, and services starting earlier on weekdays.
On route 740 from Gables to Rouse Hill, buses will run more frequently during morning and afternoon peaks and later into the evening. The service will also make the most of a $1.75M investment to extend the southbound bus only lane on Windsor Road through the
Mile End Road intersection at Rouse Hill to reduce delays and improve travel times for passengers.
The 643 will also make the most of this new infrastructure.
Route 746 from Riverstone to Rouse Hill will have earlier and later operating hours on weekdays, and additional service arriving at Rouse Hill after the busy morning peak.
Similarly, 747 passengers between Marsden Park and Rouse Hill via Riverstone will see additional services. Between Riverstone and Tallawong, buses will run more frequently during morning and afternoon peak periods. Services will also start earlier and finish later across the week. Route 732 will also run earlier on weekdays and more frequently during weeknights between Quakers Hill, Tallawong and Rouse Hill.
In other service enhancements, route 601 from Rouse Hill to Parramatta via Baulkham Hills will have an extra service in the morning peak, providing commuters with additional travel options, while weekday morning peak frequency will be improved to 10 minutes on route 605 from North Kellyville to Rouse Hill.
New bus services are scheduled for key growth areas.
BLACKTOWN CITY UPDATE
RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS
SATURDAY 22ND FEBRUARY
TICKETS $25 EACH
FILIPINO SPECTACULAR
SATURDAY 8TH MARCH
$25 MEMBERS | $30 VISITORS
ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA
SATURDAY 22ND MARCH
$30 MEMBERS | $35 VISITORS
DANCING IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN
SATURDAY 1ST MARCH
TICKETS $39 EACH
ONE NIGHT ONLY: THE BEE GEES SHOW
SATURDAY 15TH MARCH
$25 MEMBERS | $30 VISITORS
TAY TAY TRIBUTE SHOW
SATURDAY 29TH MARCH TICKETS $25 EACH
4TH SAT OF EACH
Thursday Tapas Tasting Night
Thursday Tapas Tasting Night
choose any 3 tapas for $25
choose any 3 tapas for $25
Friday Happy hour Fridays 5-7pm
Friday Happy hour Fridays 5-7pm
$10 cocktails + 2 for 1 tapas
$10 cocktails + 2 for 1 tapas
Congratulations to our Citizens of the Year
BRAD BUNTING
IT was great to see so many people enjoying Council’s Australia Day celebrations.
There was plenty of national pride on show, and thousands enjoyed the concert and fireworks. I had the pleasure on the day of awarding the Citizen of the Year honour to Paul Wynne.
Paul received the National Police Medal, the National Medal and the NSW Police Medal during his NSW Police career.
Locally, Paul was Blacktown South Public School P&C President and played Santa at school celebrations for 25 years.
He was part of the committee that setup Grace’s Place at Doonside, supporting child victims of homicide. Congratulations also to Young Citizen of the Year Marion Coles.
Marion is the founder of the Pay It Forward Angels, a Western Sydney group that helps donate essentials such as
food to people in need.
Using social media, Marion has rallied a volunteer army of about 1400 people.
Last Christmas, the Pay It Forward Angels distributed more than 400 gifts to people in need.
The Mount Druitt Family
Science Day, which more than 15 groups collaborated on, was named Community Event of the Year.
Art extravaganza on show
Have you seen the impressive collection at this year’s Blacktown City Art Prize?
There are 74 finalists’ works across painting, photography, sculpture, drawing and more at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre at Blacktown.
The exhibition is open until 28 March and entry is free. You can cast your vote for the People’s Choice Prize.
Make sure you also see the Blacktown City Young Artist Prize at the same venue. Congratulations to the winners and well done to the finalists.
Nominate a local hero for our Senior Citizen Awards
Do you know someone over 55 who is a great example of giving back? If so, I encourage you to nominate them for Council’s Senior Citizen Awards.
We want to give credit to those seniors who make valuable contributions to Blacktown City. They might organise a community club, or do volunteer work.
To nominate, search for the Senior Citizen of the Year page on Council’s website. Then fill out the nomination form.
Alternatively, pick up a form at Council’s Customer Service Centre at 62 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown.
Please don’t delay. Forms must be submitted by Wednesday, February 19.
Brad Bunting is Mayor of Blacktown.
Keep what’s yours. Enjoy what matters.
Welcome to the Hills District’s premier over-60s community, where your home is more than just a place to live, and each day invites you to embrace a life of excitement and connection.
At Halcyon Gables, your home and gains are yours. With no deferred management fees, no exit fees, no stamp duty, and the ability to keep your capital gains, you can focus on living the life you love.
Choose from new, beautifully crafted two- and three-bedroom freestanding homes, thoughtfully designed for low-maintenance living with elegant finishes and priced from $1.055m*. Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with access to a heated mineral pool, gold-class style cinema, library, gym, pickleball courts, and the welcoming Lodge for socialising and relaxation.
Visit our Sales and Information Centre 117B Old Pitt Town Rd, Gables 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday
Artist’s impression. Subject to change.
Artist’s impression. Subject to change.
Artist’s impression. Subject to change.
Homes now under construction
EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS TO… Develop leadership skills
SASWATI MUKHERJEE
GETTING cold feet ahead of the big speech or stuttering in front of the mirror while rehearsing your presentation lines?
Just drop by the Toastmasters Club at Blacktown. Hosted at the Blacktown Workers Club fortnightly on Wednesdays, Toastmasters aims to empower individuals become effective communicators and leaders. The club helps people build confidence and develop skills to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Part of a global chain, the parent organization operates through a network of local clubs.
A very structured program, the club members get to focus on different aspects of communication and leadership, a format built around a flexible online curriculum, the Pathways Learning Experience.
There is a section of prepared speeches, where members present speeches that they have already worked on, alongside table topics, where members speak impromptu by thinking on their feet. At the end, there is an evaluation section to provide constructive feedback by other members. Overall, the program encourages growth and learning.
Each path focuses on different aspects of communication and leadership, such as persuasive speaking, team collaboration, or dynamic leadership.
Members work through projects at their own pace, delivering speeches and completing assignments that build specific competencies.
“When I joined Toastmasters, my primary goal was clear: to develop the skills necessary for a promotion. The role I aspired to required confident communication, effective leadership, and the ability to connect with a
team—all areas where I needed growth and Toastmasters became the ideal platform for this transformation,” says a local club member.
For Blacktown City club president Dhammika Kulatunge, it was all about taking toddler steps to embark on her journey at Toastmasters. “I built confidence step-by-step, growing in countless ways with resilience, integrity and
the unwavering support of my fellow club members,” she says.
The Blacktown club boasts of more than 20 members as on date. Members can take on roles within their clubs, such as President or Vice President of Education, or volunteer for district-level leadership positions. These roles help develop skills like team management, strategic planning, and mentoring.
As a member aptly says, “Toastmasters has been more than a club—it’s been a transformative experience, shaping me into the leader I aspire to be”.
Toastmasters History
An integral part of Toastmasters International, it is a nonprofit educational organisation dedicated to enhancing communication, public speaking and leadership skills.
Founded in 1924 by Ralph C. Smedley in Santa Ana, California, the organization began as a club to help individuals practice public speaking in a supportive environment. Over time, it grew into a global network of clubs with millions of members across more than 140 countries.
Toastmasters presently has over 16,000 clubs worldwide, catering to diverse communities, industries, and cultures. Its membership base includes professionals, students, entrepreneurs, and individuals from different backgrounds, all with a desire to enhance their communication and leadership skills.
ABILITY CHOICE CARE
HEADLINES ABILITY
CEO’S MESSAGE
- REFLECTING ON OUR JOURNEY AND LOOKING AHEAD
Welcome to the start of a brand-new year! Christmas has come and gone in the blink of an eye, and now we’re all excited and energised for the opportunities that 2025 will bring.
At Ability Choice Care, the last quarter of 2024 was incredibly busy and filled with meaningful moments. We had the privilege of participating in a variety of outdoor activities, many of which are highlighted in this newsletter. But perhaps the most significant milestone of all was celebrating our one-year anniversary on December 12th. The event was a wonderful occasion, with many participants, their loved ones, and our dedicated support teams in attendance. We were deeply humbled by the outpouring of positive feedback from everyone — participants, their families, our collaborators, and stakeholders alike.
A special thank you goes to Marina Liaskos, our Activity Centre Manager, for her dedication in creating a Memory Book that beautifully captured the goals and milestones achieved by each participant who had the opportunity to engage with our state-of-the-art Activity Centre. The Memory Book served as a testament to the hard work, growth, and progress made throughout the year. We were honoured to have Mr. Stephen Bali, Local State Labour Member of Blacktown, join us for this celebration (pictured to the right). He took great pride in personally presenting each participant with their own Memory Book. Mr. Bali was truly impressed by the care and attention to detail that went into highlighting the personal achievements of every individual. His feedback was immensely appreciated and serves as a reminder of the profound impact our work has on those we serve. As we reflect on another incredible year, we are proud of the many accomplishments and initiatives that have shaped our journey. One of the most notable highlights has been the success of the various in-house programs within our Activity Centre.
Mahmoud
Chief Executive Officer
ABILITY CHOICE CARE’S FIRST ART EXHIBITION!
We are delighted to announce that Ability Choice Care will host its very first Art Exhibition in April/May 2025! This event is a wonderful opportunity for talented artists living with disabilities to showcase their incredible creations. What better place to celebrate creativity than our very own Activity Centre!
CALLING ALL ARTISTS!
We welcome submissions in all mediums and styles. Here’s what we offer:
• A full catalog of all works received.
• Display of your art in our exhibition space.
• Optional support for selling your pieces.
ART EXHIBITION COMING SOON...
Our goal is to highlight the incredible talents of not only Ability Choice Care artists but also those from the Greater Western Sydney community.
COLLABORATION OPPORTUNITIES
We’re excited to collaborate with other providers to make this event truly inclusive and impactful.
GET INVOLVED
For more information or to submit your work, please contact Marina or Connie at the Activity Centre. Stay tuned for a digital invitation to be sent to all our stakeholders—we can’t wait to welcome you to this milestone event!
HEADLINES ABILITY CHOICE CARE
FIRST ANNIVERSARY!
Ability Choice Care celebrated the first anniversary of our state-of-the-art Activity Centre on Thursday, December 12th, marking a significant milestone in our journey. We were truly overwhelmed by the incredible support from everyone who has contributed to making this year such a success. The real highlight of the day were our participants. Each one was presented with a memory book, capturing the amazing goals they’ve achieved through their regular attendance at the Activity Centre.
A SPECIAL MOMENT OF APPRECIATION
Heartfelt speeches on the day highlighted our amazing achievements and milestones. As a touching token of appreciation, our participants presented the Activity Centre with their beautifully completed quilted patchwork. This stunning piece symbolises the creativity and dedication of our community.
A LABOUR OF LOVE
After many hours of hard work and dedication, the quilt is now proudly displayed in the corridors of the Activity Centre — a testament to the creativity and determination of our participants.
OUR TERMLY CALENDAR 2025 ABILITY CHOICE CARE - SUMMER PROGRAM UPDATE
Ability Choice Care is excited to announce an intensive summer program that will include our younger participants. Throughout 2024, we carefully ensured that supports at the Activity Centre were not crossed between participant groups. Our programs align with the NSW school term model, and this structure will continue into 2025.
During the upcoming term breaks, our schedule will be as follows: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Programs exclusively for adults. Tuesday, Thursday: Programs dedicated to our younger participants.
On days without adult programs at the Centre, participants will engage in various community outings, providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone. All our programs are thoughtfully designed, crafted with feedback from participants through quarterly get-togethers on SurveyMonkey, and suggestions submitted via our suggestion box. Thank you for your continued support as we create enriching, participant-centered experiences!
WELCOME DONNA NEWTON
SUPPORTED INDEPENDENT LIVING HOUSE MANAGER
We at Ability Choice Care are delighted that Donna has decided to join us, as the Supported Independent Living House Manager. Donna comes to us with extensive experience and a passion for creating inclusive, fun and safe environments for all.
Donna will be working closely with the House Seniors and Support workers to ensure that through all the changes we are able to continue to strengthen our structures, staff development and create a positive space for our participants.
Throughout January, Donna will be meeting one on one with each participant to gain valuable feedback and complete a planning meeting for the upcoming quarter to assist and support the participants to achieve their chosen goals.
Donna’s values and commitment aligns perfectly to the ethos that is Ability Choice Care and we are looking forward to working with Donna as she has a passion for creating inclusive, fun and safe environments for all.
FROM HAMPERS TO HOSPITALS….
Kids West spreading goodwill
SASWATI MUKHERJEE
KIDS West’s donation made to Foodbank NSW/ACT ensured that 20,000 meals were provided to those in need.
Together with Blacktown City Lions Club, they travelled to Quirindi to donate over 400 Christmas gifts, and gift cards to Country Women’s Association (CWA).
They also worked with Liverpool Plains Business Chamber, also in Quirindi, to spread holiday cheer to families still affected by floods and drought over the past years and trying to get back on their feet.
They further identified families from Blacktown, Mount Druitt and Nepean areas through social and healthcare workers, in need of support over the Christmas period. For them were hampers, financial support and Christmas gifts.
Also, prior to Christmas, they joined hands with Blacktown Ponds Lions Club to raise $20,000 for much needed equipment at Mount Druitt Hospital. They donated well over $260,000 in much- needed equipment to various places, including Blacktown, Mount Druitt, Nepean and Campbelltown hospitals.
Meet the good Samaritans at Kids West, who brought along Christmas cheer and warmth for those who were not as fortunate to experience the same festive joy as the rest of the revellers.
This was certainly not a one-off kind of help from them, Kids West goes back a long way in helping the community.
The History
Founded by Trevor Oldfield and Professor Reuben Dubois of Westmead hospital in 1991, they were initially formed to raise some much-needed funds for the hospitals in Sydney’s West.
Recognizing the shortage of crucial equipment and resources in hospitals such as Auburn, Westmead, Blacktown, Mt Druitt, Campbelltown and Nepean, Kids West was welcomed as a charity which aimed at identifying the real
needs in the infrastructure and filling gaps wherever possible.
As on December 2024 Kids West had donated more than $7M supporting families in need, procuring specialised equipment for paediatric wards throughout Western Sydney and Rural NSW.
“We are proud to have worked alongside many other charities for a common goal, such as Ronald McDonald House, The Salvation Army, The Millennium Foundation, Canteen, Lions Clubs and many schools and day care centres,” says Trevor Oldfield, Executive Director at Kids West.
“We believe that through our ability to provide much-needed equipment, education and through accident awareness programs we will enrich the lives of those less fortunate and prevent serious accidents and save lives.”
Over the years, they have recruited board member volunteers from NSW
Police, Ambulance and Fire Brigade as well as local business leaders, doctors, nurses and experts in administration. This, the group believes has given them an advantage in fund raising and ensures that funds are distributed in the best possible way to help the community.
The Way Ahead
Kids West is in talks to revamp the ‘how to cope with a crying baby’ project, formally the Shaken Baby project, which is now operating in 17 countries. Kids West was instrumental in seed funding it 23 years ago. A local charity, one of Kids West objective is to make life easier for children with disabilities, especially those requiring specialised equipment, to learn new skills and participate in activities they may not otherwise be able to do.
Visit: www. www.kidswest.org.au
WE ARE A LOCAL CHILDRENS CHARITY SYDNEY
The Kids West is only one of the many children's charities in Australia. Its mission is to raise money for the childrens hospital fund, delivering much-needed equipment to the hospitals of western Sydney Over the course of 30+ years, Kids West has raised in excess of $7.2m and is one of the best Australian charities to suppor t dedicated countless hours to assisting a large number of organisations in improving the health and wellbeing of children throughout Western Sydney. Below are some of the other fantastic childrens charities Australia has in place As with any children's charity, it's best to do your research. Unfor tunately, there are organisations out there that take advantage of well-meaning souls and misappropriate funds Some organisations, as charitable as their intentions may be, cost a lot to run so your donations may not actually get to where you're intending them to go.
What to Consider When Making a Childrens Hospital Donation
Research the charity thoroughly BEFORE getting out your chequebook. (ACNC) is the national regulator of charities. The Australian Charities and Not For Pro t Commission
They oversee over 58,000 registered charities in Australia. We highly recommend checking out their charity register to see if the group you're looking to suppor t is approved to fundraise Check to see what the goals of the charity are Make sure they're transparent – they should be able to show you where the money goes. Reviewing their annual repor t should help you. It should be on their website. w w w.kidswest.org.au
Salvos urge vigilance with money
THE Salvation Army urges Australians to reassess their finances in 2025, as 46% start the year in debt and 30% struggle to budget. Rising living costs and reliance on credit cards and buy now, pay later schemes have worsened financial pressures. The Salvos’ Moneycare service offers free financial counseling, tools, and resources to help individuals manage debt and avoid financial distress. Support is confidential and accessible online or via phone.
200 new defibrillators added to total
THE NSW Government has announced the delivery of nearly 200 defibrillators to NSW sporting and recreation organisations, bringing the total to over 2,500 devices. These life-saving tools, funded through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, receive up to $3,000 for purchase, installation, and training. With $500,000 allocated annually, 80% of this round’s funding supports regional and disadvantaged communities. Premier Chris Minns highlighted their vital role in saving lives during cardiac arrests.
AATM laws at clubs, pubs now in effect
THE deadline for pubs and clubs to comply with new ATM laws is February 1, 2025, as part of the NSW Government’s gambling harm minimisation reforms. ATMs and EFTPOS machines must be at least 5m from gaming rooms and out of sight. Non-compliance may lead to fines or prosecution. Other measures include reducing gaming machine caps, banning gambling signage, cashless gaming trials, and a $100M commitment to harm reduction efforts.
HCF supports Smith Family for good
HCF, Australia’s largest not-forprofit health fund, has partnered with The Smith Family to support 1,500 disadvantaged students through the Learning for Life program. This three-year partnership provides financial, personal, and educational resources to help break the cycle of poverty and improve health outcomes. HCF employees will also volunteer in program activities. With 63,000 students already benefiting, the initiative highlights education’s vital role in building healthier, more equitable communities across Australia.
Aussies fear cancer survival rates
SEVEN in 10 Australians fear their location, age, gender, sexual orientation, income, or language may impact their cancer treatment and survival, according to a Leukaemia Foundation study. With one in 12 Australians likely to face blood cancer, barriers for regional, First Nations, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities exacerbate health inequities. The Leukaemia Foundation’s “A Fair Go” campaign seeks to raise awareness, provide resources, and advocate for equitable cancer treatment and care for all Australians.
Govt’s incentive is good but not great
THE Australian Government’s $10,000 incentive for apprentices in residential construction and clean energy is welcomed by the Independent Tertiary Education Council of Australia (TECA)
Study shows constipation - heart link
MONASH University-led study links constipation to a higher risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including heart attacks and strokes. Analysing data from
over 400,000 participants, researchers found constipated individuals were twice as likely to experience MACE. Constipation also increased risks in hypertensive patients by 34%. Genetic
but criticised for overlooking widespread skills shortages across industries like agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and ICT. While the $627M initiative supports recruitment and retention in targeted sectors, it fails to address systemic gaps in small business support and broader workforce needs. ITECA urges inclusive policies to strengthen Australia’s apprenticeship system across all industries.
Sorting priorities in public health issues
THE Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) has outlined seven priorities for the next government to address key health issues, including obesity, gambling harms, and climate change. PHAA emphasizes prevention over treatment, as obesity has overtaken tobacco as the leading cause of preventable disease. Priorities include creating a Disease Control Centre, investing in prevention, improving First Nations health, reforming gambling, tackling climate change, and introducing universal oral healthcare through Medicare.
NSW doctors lag behind national rates
GENERAL practice training in NSW is improving with an 8% rise in GP registrars for 2025, but it lags behind the national growth of 19.8%, says the RACGP. Rural areas saw only a 4% increase, with regions like Western NSW severely underrepresented. The RACGP urges NSW to match Victoria’s $40,000 incentives for GP trainees and calls for federal investment to fund 1,500 more training places over five years to address workforce shortage.
correlations suggest shared factors between gut and heart health. With 14% of the global population affected, the study highlights gut health’s role in cardiovascular disease prevention.
FINDING C NNECTION
Western Sydney is home to a population close to 1.1 million people, with 58% using a nonEnglish language at home1. At WentWest, Western Sydney Primary Health Network (WSPHN), we work closely with local organisations to provide health programs and services that meet the unique needs of our communities.
Many of the programs we support focus on the idea that health is influenced by many factors in our environment including physical, social and economic conditions. Ensuring the community can find connection is a core part to our role.
If you’re looking for a place to connect and make new friends, here are some places you can go in Western Sydney:
Spotlight on Local Services for Western Sydney Residents
The Shed – A Safe Space to Connect
The Shed is a welcoming community environment that supports Aboriginal community members by connecting them to mental health, general health, housing, financial, disability, legal and cultural services. This program offers the opportunity for people to be empowered with knowledge and to be linked to culturally appropriate services that address their holistic needs.
Call: (02) 9628 7396
Address: Corner of Weber Crescent and Emert Parade, Emerton NSW 2770
STARTTS – Building Community Resilience
The NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) helps people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds develop a sense of community and belonging to improve their wellbeing.
Their dedicated team run group sessions such as art classes, yoga, English lessons, health workshops, cultural days and outings to create a safe space for people to build trust, share their feelings and create a support network within the community. From running youth ambassador programs, to LGBTQIA+ support groups, to their Keeping in Contact (KiC) group for seniors, STARTTS run programs that welcome people from all backgrounds.
Call: (02) 9646 6700
Locations include Auburn and Blacktown
1 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021), ‘Census of Population and Housing 2021’, available from: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/population-census/2021
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
Baabayn – Culturally Safe Community Connection
Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation exists so individuals and families can find support and connections to services that will help them heal from the past and nurture a strong sense of confidence and pride for the future. Programs include family gatherings, Kurung homework club, young mums and bubs and speak up sis.
Call: (02) 8608 6054
Address: 252 Luxford Road, Emerton NSW 2770
North West Community Services Inc – Wellbeing Program
North West Community Services run the Mental Health and Wellbeing Program. This program offers counselling and expressive therapies for children and young people. Additional programs and events for local community to enjoy include Zumba classes, Dance Fit, Garden and Street library events, pizza making classes, first aid training, clay making workshops and more.
Call: (02) 9627 3622
Address: 9 Park Street, Riverstone NSW 2765
with Michelle Rowland
ONLY LABOR WILL FINISH THE NBN And keep infrastructureessential safe
MICHELLE ROWLAND
IN 2013, former Prime Minister Tony Abbott said: ‘‘We are absolutely confident that 25 megs (Mbps) is going to be enough, more than enough, for the average household,” a forecast that award-winning Australian journalist Adam Turner placed in the tech world’s Short-sighted Hall of Fame.
With a 25Mbps connection, downloading a 5GB file (a large software file or update, video game, or HD/4K movie) takes around 30 minutes. At 1Gbps – available with a full fibre connection – the same task takes less than one minute.
Australians have always known a fast and affordable publicly owned National Broadband Network (NBN) is essential for a modern economy.
The Albanese Government is delivering on its vision for a
world-class fibre NBN – and we are finishing what we started.
We announced an equity injection of up to $3B into NBN Co to upgrade the remaining Fibre to the Node (FTTN) network.
This will see an additional 622,000 premises move off the deteriorating copper network - around 164,000 across New South Wales.
This builds on our $2.4B outlay to upgrade an additional 1.5 million premises to full fibre by the end of 2025. We are delivering this on time and on budget.
The average Australian household is using more than 450GB of data per month and around 22 connected devices.
This is forecast to increase to 1 Terabyte and more than 40 devices by the end of the decade.
Fast broadband enables more people and devices to be online at the same time with
minimal disruptions.
But it’s not just about entertainment and seamless streaming. Fast broadband supports access to essential government services, banking and telehealth. It enables us to learn and work online and it is delivering real cost savings.
Households are saving more than 100 hours and $2,580 per year in avoided travel time and costs.
Modelling by Accenture estimates our latest announcement will provide a $10.4B cumulative uplift in GDP over the next decade.
Inexplicably, Peter Dutton and the Coalition want to privatise the NBN, and strand Australians on deteriorating copper that won’t meet future needs.
And they want to increase wholesale NBN prices to make the NBN more attractive to sell.
Peter Dutton is a risk to Australia and cannot be
trusted to deliver the essential services we need to build a better future.
Michelle Rowland MP is the Federal Member for Greenway
with Emma Wilson
Thinking of skiing New Zealand in 2025?
IF you’ve always been curious to experience skiing or snowboarding in New Zealand, now is the time to think about your trip. Southern Hemisphere winter will be here before you know it.
Cardrona Snow Resort is the best place to start your NZ snow experience with 20% of terrain beginner, 25% intermediate and 30% advanced terrain and the
scenery, skiing above the river, fields and mountains below is absolutely stunning. The exciting news for this well-known snow resort is brand new terrain opening up (150 hectares) called Soho, including a new high speed 6 seater chair.
Kids programs for 2025 include 4 day programs for skiers (age 5 and over), snowboarders (age 7 and over) from $NZ570 - incredible value for
Aussies with the same instructor and group all week including lunch. Multi-day passes for adults start from NZ$390 for 7 days (blackout dates apply). Cardrona has on-mountain childcare for ages 3 months to age 2 and ski kindy from 2 -4 so everyone is up on the mountain at the same time. For more info on passes, accommodation recommendations and more visit cardro-
na-treblecone.com
Cardrona has free mountain shuttles and bus transport to and from Queenstown and Wanaka. Check out cardrona-treblecone.com/ mountains/transport.
The Sydney Airport Hotel with the VIBE
What is a Moxy?
SYDNEY is lucky enough to have a Moxy hotel, have you heard of them? Moxy Hotels are the Mariott Bonvoy’s incredible young and vibrant group of hotels located across the world with a focus on fun and stylish communal spaces with smart rooms with tucked away furniture, walk-in showers, a cool laundromat and eye-popping interiors.
THE HOTEL
This is an airport hotel with a difference and you won’t want to go anywhere during your stay. The vibe is friendly and relaxed and the ground floor has an extensive section of coffee table, art and design books, a plethora of family games and a great bar for breakfast and dinner. This cocktail bar serves up great dinner from 5pm including wholesome quinoa bowls, burgers, linguine, gnocchi and delicious cauliflower gnocchi.
Setting the tone of how things roll at the Moxy, you are gifted a signature cocktail or mocktail upon arrival. Enjoy happy hour at the bar between 4-6pm for $7 beers and wine and if you’re looking to let off steam, bicycles are available for use as well as a well-equipped gymnasium. Refill your water bottle with filtered water on every floor, every aspect of this hotel is well-thought out with a travel themeeven the carpet has an airport runway theme and nothing is missed from a design eye- the shampoo and conditioner in the showers are cool and room furniture is designed to fold up and be
stored on the wall. ‘Thoughtful, spirited and fun’, this particular Moxy opened in August 2023 and has regular on-site activations with a focus on playfulness. The hotel’s extensive artwork includes work from local artists Elliot Rutledge and Evi O.
An Incredible Deal
Leading the way with what travellers actually need, you can stay at
Moxy and park your car for 5 nights for free. Secure, hassle-free valet parking with an inclusive return airport shuttle absolutely free of charge. The car park is protected, keeping your vehicle safe from the elements with 24/7 CCTV surveillance. After these 5 free nights the daily rate is from $15 a day, $100 weekly or save up to 20% on extended monthly stays. Please check re larger vehicles like
4WD and with with modifications like bull bars or longer and wider than 2.3m x 5.3m).
More than just a hotel, Moxy Sydney Airport has become a traveller favourite. It is celebrated for its award-winning design and signature energy that turns a stopover into a memorable part of the journey. 56 Baxter Road Mascot www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sydxp-moxysydney-airport/overview phone 9132 4800
with Emma Wilson
Nevada - Your next family destination
Lake Tahoe
Right up there with the world’s greatest destinations, Lake Tahoe is a must for all natural wonder lovers. As one of the 20 oldest lakes on earth, created from glacial erosion filled with 99.9% pure water Lake Tahoe is simply breathtaking. In winter white snow capped craggy alps form a rim as far as the eye can see. If you get up close to the lake shore you can see through to the bottom of the lake.
Summer
In summer the lake comes alive with a multitude of activities, SUP, canoeing, swimming and boating with towns and villages supporting tourism on the lake. Bars, restaurants and parks to enjoy picnics dot around the lake, there is a distinct ‘summer camp’ vibe as well as an American Indian influence.
Lake Tahoe was home to three Tribes - Washoe, Maidu and Paiute who reportedly came to the lake seasonally to hunt, fish and gather medicinal plants. As you move about Lake Tahoe you can observe American Indian influences, different motifs, reference to totems and there is a sense of respectfulness to nature and the American Indian influences here.
The gorgeous surroundings make it clear why people live in this region of the USA. It is home to some of the wealthiest American billionaires with huge stunning timber mansions right on the lake and when you watch the sunset over the water and witness the snowcapped Sierra Mountains turn orange you’ll be thinking how you can move here too.
Polar Paddles at Sand Harbor State Park are offered by Clearly Tahoe.
Winter
Nevada snow resorts are simply incredible, you really are spoilt for choice. The ideal scenario would be to spend several weeks here to experience them all. Here’s the short-list:
Diamond Peak
Diamond Peak is a local community-owned hill and if you’re staying at Incline Village it will be a 2 minute drive up the hill - and yes - you will check your map twice like we did because how can a ski resort be 2 minutes uphill from a stunning lake, but it is. It’s a bit of a secret gem, Diamond Peak might not be as widely known
as some of the others, this resort has very decent backcountry access, steep runs, wide intermediate runs, easy learning areas and - the piece d’resistance - the most incredible downhill intermediate run skiing down towards Lake Tahoe that is simply breathtaking and worth experiencing for this alone. Money-saving tip: Diamond Peak has three day passes that are great value. I recommend staying in the area, get a couple of families together to share local accommodation that comes with a kitchen to keep meal costs down and spend the other couple of days exploring Lake Tahoe activities, walks, shopping and daytrips.
Mt Rose
If this resort isn’t named because it’s as lovely as a rose - it should be. On an average snow day the runs are generous in size, great groomers, non-crowded slopes and runs for all abilities. When the powder falls, the Mt Rose chutes come alive and the snow frothers (expert ski enthusiasts) come out of the woodwork to enjoy them. There is great back country access here and the vibe is authentic Nevada. Enjoy a coffee out in the sunshine or a beer in the salon-style bar. No shiny showoffs here.
Heavenly Resort
If you have an Epic pass, the charm of this expansive resort is skiing from Nevada state to California and skiing downwards from great elevation towards the lake. Staying at or near the Nevada-side casinos is good value. The local area and resort feels very local-oriented and low-key.
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
Surrounded by forest and close to the lake is the lovely Hyatt Regency. A great place to base yourself to explore the area, this hotel is a destination in its own right. Interestingly, it’s a great location for a solo holiday or as a solo parent because of the activities on offer and the shuttle bus system, you’ll be kept busy and everything is organised for you.
The outdoor pools and spas are great and include a swim-up pool (swim from inside the hotel to outside) Activities - like archery are on offer near the pool. Please note that during extensive renovations any activities on the beach side of the property will be impacted.
Most hotels claim they have a gym and it’s generally tokenistic but this hotel gym is extremely substantial and includes online programs to choose from. On-site are 5 restaurants and an amazing spa offering cryotherapy (cold therapy helping muscle ache) and float therapy. The selection of activities on offer is insane - everything is free or attracts a small fee - from snowshoeing, hiking, art (soap making, pinecone art, postcode workshop, yoga, soundbath or cocktail making. The hotel provides S’mores kits (marshmellow, chocolate and biscuits) you can toast on the hotel firepits on site or a 3 minute walk down on the beach (renovation pending so please check).
Snow Resorts - you can access Diamond Peak from the Hyatt Regency
regular shuttle bus service. Mt Rose is an 18-20 minute drive up the hill.
Accessibility
Again, accessibility for disabled travellers can often be tokenistic but this Hyatt is thorough in this regard. Public spaces - swimming pool, exercise equipment, bathrooms, reception and restaurants have been taken into consideration.Contact the hotel for more information.
111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, Nevada email hyattlaketahoe@ hyatt.com for bookings and enquiries or call +1 775 832 1234 for more info.
Getting There and Away
You can get to Lake Tahoe via a four hour drive from San Francisco or change planes in Los Angeles to fly to Reno (1-1.5 hours or less) or San Francisco to Reno is just 45 minutes. North Tahoe Express is the shuttle between RNO and North Lake Tahoe.
TART Connect is the free on demand transportation service across the North Shore.
Roadtrip
It’s a great experience to do a road trip through Nevada in fact there are 10 designated road trips to choose from if you’re heading to Utah, Seattle, Southern California or beyond. Check out Travel Nevada Roadtrips for trips such as; Travel Nevada Loneliest Road in America, Lake Tahoe Loop, Extraterrestrial Highway, Great Basin Highway, Neon To Nature, Rubies Route and the Free-range Art Highway are some of these routes. Depending on the route, you can expect state parks, museums, beautiful mountain views, ghost towns, Sagebrush Saloons and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
with Emma Wilson
A TRANQUIL ESCAPE - Luxury and sustainability at Samanvaya Resort, Bali
THE warmth of Samanvaya’s hospitality begins long before you even set foot in Bali. A week prior to our arrival, the resort’s friendly staff reached out offering to arrange dining and spa reservations, ensuring a seamless travel experience and creating anticipation. This level of communication continued throughout our stay, with quick responses via WhatsApp or the in-room iPhone provided in each villa— personal touches that made us feel like valued guests.
Nestled in the rolling green hills of Sideman Valley, Samanvaya Luxury Resort is the sanctuary you’ve been searching for if an adults-only tranquil escape is your idea of bliss. Located about 90 minutes from the bustling crowds of Denpasar, Sideman (pronounced see-da-men) feels like a hidden gem, where traditional villages, lush rice terraces, and a grounded pace of life define the landscape.
The resort driver greeted us warmly upon arrival, followed by the reception team, who welcomed us with smiles, cool lemongrass tea, and chilled hand towels setting the tone for a special stay. Visiting in mid-January, our concerns about the rainy season were soon dispelled by the resort’s warm energy. Mornings were clear and mild, perfect for exploring, while afternoon showers added a misty, dreamlike atmosphere.
Accommodation: A Fusion of Nature and Luxury
Samanvaya’s accommodation is a beautiful union of traditional Balinese design and modern comfort, blending into the surrounding landscape. Walking through the resort feels like stepping into a hidden oasis—lush tropical palms, vibrant flowers, flowing water channels, and intricately designed pathways guide you to your villa. The attention to detail is exceptional, with each villa incorporating locally sourced materials, handcarved wood accents, and elegant bamboo architecture. The bathroom took our breath away with a sink carved from a large crystal gem, an elegant private hot tub featuring an opening in the bamboo architecture revealing the night sky. Geckos and frogs from the surrounding garden negated the need for music manifesting a harmonious mood.
The resort offers a mix of newer and more tradition-
al-style villas, each thoughtfully designed to provide an immersive experience in nature while maintaining a high level of luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the rice fields, while nearby plunge pools, as well as a stunning resort infinity pool add to the feeling of seclusion and serenity. The designers have thought of everything here, including a linen draped bed featuring integrated air conditioning. The commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the design, from eco-friendly toiletries to the use of local resources and labour.
Every space feels intimate, intentional, and designed with relaxation in mind—whether you’re lounging on comfortable villa furniture, taking in views from your balcony or soaking in a tub under the stars. Whatever you choose, the friendly and efficient team will bring you a world class cocktail to enhance the vibe. Samanvaya blurs the line between room service, well-appointed venue and pool side hospitality, whatever we needed was replied with a friendly ‘yes’. Everything just flows.
Samanvaya has a distinct personality, shaped by its Kiwi founders Tracey and Rob, who have infused the resort with a genuine passion for the region. The team members operate as a family and demonstrate authenticity and care, only possible based on the role that Samanvaya plays in the broader valley community.
Asri Dining: Local Flavours, Flawlessly Executed
Dining at Asri, the resort’s paddock-to-plate restaurant, is a sensory experience. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including chilies, green beans, and rice from the resort’s fields. Dishes are indulgent yet wholesome, leaving you satisfied but refreshed.
Breakfast featured many options, including fluffy banana pancakes drizzled in local honey and flavourful Mie Goreng noodles. Evenings were a delight, with standout dishes like artisan bread with cinnamon butter, Beef Rendang, and Balinese curry. The Tuna Tartare highlighted the fresh seafood available in the region. Conscious travellers will appreciate the plant-based and sustainably sourced options. Samanvaya also offers a surprising selection of locally produced wines made from Australian grapes, alongside international varieties. Every meal feels like an experience, whether you’re dining with a view of the misty valley or enjoying one of the venue’s many garden nooks.
Ananda Spa: The Ultimate Rejuvenation
No luxury escape is complete without a visit to the spa, and the Ananda Spa at Samanvaya does not disappoint. Nestled amidst the lush greenery, the spa offers a range of treatments designed to soothe, rejuvenate and restore.
authenticity of the interactions makes for a far richer and more meaningful experience.
What truly sets Samanvaya apart is its deep-rooted connection to the local community. The team here is genuinely engaged, warm, and eager to share their culture. Almost all staff members are from the Sideman Valley, and their pride in their home is visible. They’re not just employees— they’re storytellers, eager to share insights about their traditions, history, and way of life.
I opted for the Anti-Fatigue Massage, a heavenly experience that combined deep-tissue techniques with a choice of aromatherapy oils to melt away any lingering tension. The Salt Scrub was another highlight, leaving my skin feeling refreshed and renewed. Each treatment is performed by skilled therapists who seem to have an intuitive understanding of exactly what your body needs.
The spa itself is a sanctuary of peace, as soft Balinese music and singing bowls play in the background, the gentle sounds of nature completing the experience. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring or simply to indulge in a moment of self-care.
Support Sideman: A New Sustainable Tourism Model
Forget the cookie-cutter hospitality of a five-star chain—there’s no “tropical kabuki” (as humorously depicted in The White Lotus series). The
Beyond exceptional service, Samanvaya has implemented an inspiring initiative known as the Support Sideman program. This unique program allows visitors to contribute to environmental and educational efforts in the region. One particularly impactful project involves an innovative recycling-for-rice exchange, where locals collect waste in exchange for much-needed rice. During our visit, we learned that over 15 tonnes of waste had been collected, leading to the distribution of 3 tonnes of rice to local families.
The resort is also actively involved in maintaining the valley’s ecological integrity by supporting reforestation efforts and advocating for responsible tourism development. As more travellers discover Sideman, Samanvaya is playing a crucial role in ensuring that growth is sustainable and beneficial for the local community, mitigating risks of overdevelopment as is common in other parts of Bali. Guests are encouraged to share their ideas. A recent visitor and ‘animal lover’ funded a local vet to sterilise and immunise dogs in the area.
Final Thoughts: A Transformative Stay
Samanvaya Luxury Resort is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. My husband and I left with a sense of healing, harmony, and happiness far beyond our expectations.
It’s a place to slow down, reflect, reconnect and immerse yourself in the heart of Bali. For those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the usual tourist crowds, where luxury meets sustainability in the most beautiful way, Samanvaya is nothing short of perfect.
For more info visit: www.samanvayabali.com/
GAME ON FOR BLACKTOWN FC Coaches predict season success
THE 2025 Season launch on Friday, January 31st at the Hudson Hotel set the table for an exciting season.
The Senior Men’s and Women’s teams were awarded their 2025 Jerseys in front of a full house including Sponsors, Media, State Politicians, and half a dozen Blacktown Councillors. Former Deputy Mayor, Julie Griffiths, presented the Senior and Under 20 Women their Jerseys, not before she gave a brief outline of her years as a football player and coach.
Head of Football and Senior Men’s Coach, Mark Crittenden (Critto), was interviewed by MC, Wayne Buscombe (Busco), formerly of 2SWR FM.
Busco is no stranger to Critto as the two have had many years of weekly football conversations on air. Busco pointed out that this is the 14th year for Critto as the Senior men’s coach chalking up well over 400 games as the head of the illustrious club.
Few coaches at any Senior Level have endured the longevity and success that Coach Crittenden has brought to Blacktown City! He has built a solid culture that has elevated Blacktown City to be synonymous as a Premier Club in NSW Football.”
Losing key players like Tristen Prendergast, Mario Shabow, Joey Gibbs and TJ Burnie to other clubs, Coach
Crittenden went out to surround his veterans with young, enthusiastic, and talented players.
Crittenden answered a question from MC Buscombe: “I am very happy with the intensity of the group we have assembled. The hunger is there and I believe if we can stay healthy we can give the Premier State Competition a real shake, “he said.
The other goal is to advance in the Australian Cup,” he added.
“Last year we gave Adelaide United all they could handle before going down in overtime. We had a chance to
win it in the final stages of regulation time, but a late goal attempt hit the crossbar. This year’s team has the talent and energy to go one better and get to the Final 8.
Michael Hawthorne, Head of Women’s Football, has been on a solid recruiting trail with several new faces joining the ranks for season 2025.
“I am excited at the potential we have shown in pre-season competition and believe we will take a giant positive step to achieve the goal of NPL 1 statues within three years”, said Coach Hawthorne. The season for the Women will
commence in early March.”
Saturday, February 15 is the opening home game of the 2025 NSW Men’s Competition for Blacktown City as they play host to NWS Spirit.
Game time is 7pm at Landen Stadium with the Under 20’s commencing at 5pm.
Adults are $15 and Under 16’s are free of charge as the Board of Blacktown City continues to attract young footballers to learn from the best in the state.
The newly created Gold Memberships continue to sell at a regular pace with reserved seating for all home games at Landen Stadium.
On Saturday, February 8th, Blacktown City will venture to Marconi Stadium for the opening week of the NSW Men’s Premier competition.
Marconi is the defending champion club and knocked Blacktown out of contention last year in the Semi-Finals.
“Our pre-season competition has been more than encouraging, including a solid display against St George two weeks ago. We were leading 6-1 in the final minutes before I let a few of our younger players gain some valuable game time,” said Coach Crittenden.
“Marconi present a formidable opening opponent and will be a great test for the new look team.”
BLACKTOWN CITY NETBALL Looking forward to 2025
ALISON SHEPPARD
AS the new year dawns, Blacktown City Netball Association (BCNA) is filled with enthusiasm and optimism.
With a storied past and a commitment to fostering excellence in netball, BCNA stands as a beacon of sportsmanship and community spirit. The association's journey, from its modest inception in 1967 to becoming a cornerstone of Blacktown's sporting landscape, is a testament to its resilience and vision.
In 2025, BCNA is set to celebrate its 58th year of competition, marking another milestone in its illustrious history. The association boasts over 2,000 members from 15 dedicated clubs, each contributing to the vibrant and inclusive netball community that BCNA prides itself on. The association is looking forward to another great season of competition accommodating all ages and abilities.
The 2025 representative teams are already hard at work, with training sessions in full swing and final team selections just around the corner. The junior representative teams are preparing to showcase their talents at their first carnival of the season later this month. This spirit of preparation and anticipation is mirrored across all levels of the association, as players, coaches,
and officials gear up for the season.
For anyone wishing to find their local club, visit this page for club and registration information. Registrations for all clubs are now open. Club Listing | BlacktownNetball
GWS Fury, the Premier League franchise managed by BCNA, will enter its 10th season in the Netball NSW Premier League competition. The franchise will field an Opens team and a 23 & Under team comprising of 24 contracted athletes
and three full-time training partners.
Our teams are supported by experienced team officials and support staff. GWS Fury is currently engaged in pre-season training and are looking forward to the season ahead.
The franchise has won two premierships in its history and now features a new look that connects GWS Fury to BCNA and its heritage. The teams will participate in some pre-season matches before their Season Launch on Friday 28 February, at
the Hudson Hotel in Seven Hills.
In 2025 GWS Fury are thrilled to have three Netball NSW U17 State Team players within our squad, 2 of whom are BCNA juniors. These players will compete in the National Netball Championships that will be held in April at Homebush. Not only do we have these 3 players, our 23 and Under coaches are also the Head Coach and Apprentice Coach of the team. We are delighted to support these players and coaches on their State journey.
As a supporter of BCNA, we invite you to join us in our mission to nurture and grow the talent of our young athletes, coaches and team officials. Your support through venue access, equipment provision, or sharing of expertise, can make an impact on our community's sports development.
Whether you're a local business, a sports enthusiast, or a former player, your contribution will help us continue to offer a high-performance support network and a player-centered environment.
For more information, you can contact the association through secretary@blacktownnetball. com.au, visit the website at www. blacktownnetball.com.au or our Facebook page. Alison Sheppard is GWS Fury Executive Representative, Blacktown City Netball Association.
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REGION UNITES FOR YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH
Blacktown leads the way
STEP into Action and BREED Australia, a leading Western Sydney charity, are proud to announce the official launch of Walk Festival 2025, a landmark event aimed at improving youth mental health, fostering community well-being, and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Western Sydney.
The festival is set to position Blacktown as the heart of positive change in the region. It will leverage the simple yet powerful act of walking to inspire connection and resilience among individuals and families.
The launch event took place on Thursday, January 30 at the Blacktown International Sports Park—Athletic Stadium. Featuring an engaging program and inspiring speakers, it was a great kickstart a movement for health and hope across Western Sydney.
Special Guests Included:
• Melissa Wu: Walk Festival Ambassador, five-time Australian Olympian, World Champion, and Olympic Medalist.
• Brad Bunting: Mayor of Blacktown City Council and the festival’s official patron.
• Chris Barton: Extreme charity walks fundraiser and Founder of Walk Festival.
Uniting for a Cause
Walk Festival 2025, running from April 12–13, is a community-centric celebration designed to encourage physical activity, mental health awareness, and community connection. Participants can join themed walks tailored for families, fitness enthusiasts, businesses, and more.
All proceeds will support critical BREED Australia Youth mental health programs across Western Sydney, ad dressing rising challenges such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
Mayor Brad Bun ting expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying: “Blacktown is proud to host Walk Festival 2025, a powerful event that brings our community together
for a cause that truly matters. This festival not only highlights the importance of mental health but also showcases the strength and unity of our city as a leader in Western Sydney.”
Walk Festival Ambassador Melissa Wu, a five-time Australian Olympian and Olympic Medalist, emphasised the importance of the event’s mission: “As an athlete, I’ve experienced
firsthand how staying active can positively impact physical and mental wellbeing. The Walk Festival is a beautiful way to unite people, encourage movement, and support an incredible cause. I’m honoured to be part of an initiative that promotes healthier lifestyles and offers hope and help to young people in need.”
Why Walk Festival Matters
For Chris Barton, founder of Step into Action, the festival represents a deeply personal
mission: He says walking has the power to heal, connect, and inspire. “With Walk Festival, we’re giving the community a platform to take meaningful steps— literally and figuratively—towards a brighter future for our youth.”
Adding to this, Emmanuel Martin, CEO of BREED Australia, shared his thoughts on the broader vision/ “At BREED Australia, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for healthier, more connected communities. Walk Festival is a testament to what we can achieve together, providing support for youth mental health and a platform for connection and shared purpose.”
Be Part of the Movement Visit the official website, www.walkfestival.com.au, for more details about Walk Festival 2025, including participation, donation, and volunteer opportunities.
‘Pass on a HOPE to Someone’
At Harman Foundation, our mission is to empower and uplift vulnerable communities HOPE Multicultural Hub offers comprehensive support services and a safe, transitional space for vulnerable women and their children. At the HOPE Multicultural Hub, women can safely stay with their children, who have a secure environment to play and rest, while the mothers receive the necessary support to navigate various government agencies The Hub is open for all families in need of other support services too This includes assistance with paperwork, such as filling out forms for Centrelink, legal aid, victim services, and more Strategically positioned near Blacktown Station, the Hub truly lives up to its name a place of hope and new beginnings We invite each one extend help and join us in the mission to make a difference by volunteering, donating or participating in our events & workshops
Beyond Boundaries is an initiative by Harman Foundation to compile stories of people from all walks of life and release them as an ebook This book is an opportunity for people to reflect back on their own life and share it with others. Beyond Boundaries is not just a book, its a compilation of successes, failures, of falling and rising again, with dignity and self respect This year we celebrated the event on 20th September and released stories of 17 people from varied backgrounds The book launch event was a full house event with fashion walk, classical dance performance and inspiring talks by the storytellers
Melissa Wu.
Chris Barton.
