Macarthur Advocate - October 2023 by Community Broadcast Network (CBN)

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October 2023

Macarthur

MP laments referendum decision

Tahmoor Sports Complex underway

Macarthur students showcase work

ART CENTRAL Beautifying public spaces in Campbelltown’s CBD

AMPBELLTOWN’S business centre is undergoing beautification with pavements, street furniture and public arts to refresh the amenities for public enjoyment. While attractive artworks of five acclaimed artists are visibly seen around the city’s centre created last

Artist Savanhdary Vongpoothorn and some of the new artwork beatifying Campbelltown CBD.

month, a series of renovations is also happening along Queen Street, between Browne Street and Bradbury Avenue. The works started with 700 sqm of pavements replaced in key locations to improve the accessibility for people and businesses, Mayor Dr George Greiss said. More page 8.

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NewS

ISSUE 10 | October 2023

LOCAL MP LAMENTS REFERENDUM DECISION

Why I voted YES - Dr Freelander ELIZABETH FRIAS

ACARTHUR MP Dr Mike Freelander has revealed he supported the Yes camp in the referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the hope that if it succeeded, it would close the wide gap in health and social issues impacting them. The popular paediatrician and Federal Labor PM has represented the large Macarthur electorate since the 2016 federal election. The Australian Electoral Commission has tallied the Macarthur electorate’s 141,044 registered voters polling among the highest No votes in NSW divisions with earliest 64.79 percent latest result expected to exceed further. Dr Freelander’s neighbouring electorate, Lindsay held by Liberal Party MP Melissa Mcintosh, is polling the highest in the Western Sydney division at nearly 70 percent No of its registered voters. “I voted Yes as all attempts to close the gap by past Federal Governments for many decades have not worked particularly in healthcare and social matters,” Dr Freelander speaking from Canberra told the Macarthur Advocate. “As Indigenous Australians would rank #115 in the world for healthcare access if they were considered a separate nation, whereas the rest of Australia would rank #2.

Macarthur MP Dr Mike Freelander with Yes campaign in Campbelltown with Indigenous lawyer and leader Noel Pearson and Amar Singh of Turbans for Australia and other local campaigners. Photo supplied

“This gap is far too large to be considered acceptable and by providing Indigenous People with a voice to Parliament, rather than the other way around as it currently is, I hoped we could close the gaps and unite the country.” But since the Yes camp’s loss to the No campaign Dr Freelander said he “respects the outcome that occurred in Macarthur.” “I understand that for many residents, this matter was not at the forefront of their minds nor was the messaging clear to them as to what The Voice would have been, he said. “Macarthur was not the outlier however, with many electorates around the

country with various degrees of diversity and economic outcomes showing similar results. “There are many matters that local constituents are concerned about, including cost of living and infrastructure needs, which I am fully aware of and have not stopped focusing on, even during the referendum campaign.” During the referendum campaign, Dr Freelander announced $22.09M funding from the Albanese government to construct a multideck 500-plus carpark at Campbelltown Station on Farrow Street as residents demand public transport infrastructure improvement for the region.

At Canberra’s following the referendum, Dr Freelander described the mood of his fellow MPs as “normal” yet also admitted “those who supported Yes are bothered by the result.” He also said his party is aware that the Coalition opposition leader Peter Dutton is hammering out with the Liberal and Nationals MPs a counter referendum proposal that would recognise the country’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as the first nations people in Australia. “I hope and believe that we will eventually be able to do so, however it will take longer than if the Voice referendum had been successful.”

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Macarthur

Editor's PickS

ISSUE 10 | October 2023 www.facebook.com/MacarthurAdvocate/

ISSUE 10 | October How to get The News The Macarthur Advocate is available at strategic locations throughout Blacktown LGA. To find a location near you visit our website.

Digital edition Each edition of The Macarthur Advocate can be viewed and downloaded in digitalf ormat at our ISSUU platform: www.issuu/communitybroadcastnetwork

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MACARTHUR'S TRUSTED

LOCAL MEDIA VOICE

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D LOCAL NEWS VOICE

WWW.MACARTHURADVO

Macarthur

MP laments referendum

decision

Tahmoor Sports Comp

lex underway

CATE.AU

OctOber 2023

ART CENTRAL Macarthur students

showcase work

Beautifying public spaces in Campbelltown ’s CBD

AMPBELLTOWN’S business centre is undergoing beau tifica street furniture and tion with pavements, public arts to refres the amenities for h publi c enjoyment. While attrac tive artworks of five acclaimed artists are visibly seen aroun d the city’s centre created last

Artist Savanhdary Vongpoothorn and some of the new artwork beatifying Campbelltown CBD.

month, a series of renovations is also happening along Queen Stree t, between Browne Street and Bradbury Avenue. The works started with of pavements repla ced in key locations 700 sqm the accessibility for to improve people and busin esses, Mayor Dr George Greiss said. More page 8.

Read the digital edition 24/7 at our website

Editorial info@macathuradvocate.au Admin and General info@macathuradvocate.au

Gosty experts says be prepared

Mature age caravaners

AUTO: powertrain for under $60K

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Six tips to protect your wellbeing

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in Campbelltown,

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

NewS

ISSUE 10 | October 2023

Tahmoor Sports Complex tender awarded

W The thought-provoking artworks from Bonnyrigg Public School, Oran Park High School, Bonnyrigg High School and a poem by a Cecil Hills High School student. Photo by NSW Department of Education media

ART EXHIBITION DEPICTS YOUTH VIEWS

Macarthur students showcase work

HOUGHT provoking artworks and a poetry by five students in the Macarthur region have been selected at the NSW Parliament House’s Every Step Counts exhibition running until the end of this month. The exhibition showcases artistic submissions by students from 28 primary and secondary schools that Every Step Count program manager Dale Palmer described as “significant artworks” that depicts how youths feel about social issues around them. “The exhibition was an expression of how the students feel about issues of self-image, violence, making good choices, gender bias and consent,” Mr Palmer, a former principal at Endeavour Sports High School, said. “Through their art, they gave messages of hope, and expressed what they would like for their futures, what society should look like and what they want adults to help create for them.” The selected exhibits were created by a student at Bonnyrigg Public School, two students from Oran Park High School, a student from Bonnyrigg High School and a poetry by a Cecil Hills High School student. Every Step Counts is an NSW education department program to initiate discussions on challenging topics for students such as positive self-image, reducing violence-supportive attitudes and behaviours, making 'good choices', gender bias in the media and social media, consent and pornography. NSW education deputy secretary Deb Summerhayes said the exhibition provided students with an important creative outlet to explore these challenging and relevant themes. “Displayed at the exhibition are 54 artworks and 46 poems that are thought-

Every Step Count program manager Dale Palmer. Photo by NSW Department of Education media

ful, imaginative, creative representations of children and young peoples’ experiences, feelings and views on family, friendship and community and representations of hopes for a society that is fairer, kinder and promotes respectful relationships at all levels,” said Ms Summerhayes. “By continuously fostering awareness and promoting respectful relationships across generations and imparting knowledge about gender equity our students, teachers and leaders in schools work towards building a brighter future.” Mr Palmer said the exhibition also underscored the importance of primary prevention and generational change in many social issues impacting young Australians. “This exhibition is not so much about what public education students know about respectful relationships but more about how they truly feel about the issues of domestic violence, consent, pornography and gender equality,” said Mr Palmer. “As adults we must listen, and this is

what this exhibition is about and why it’s so important. “No matter location or socio-economic status, the areas in need of discussion are the same in every school.” Public viewing at NSW Parliament House on Macquarie Street available on weekdays, 9am to 5pm until October 26, 2023.

The Parliament has created a virtual art exhibition by visiting: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/ news/Pages/Every-Step-Counts.aspx Visitors are advised the exhibition contains content relating to domestic violence. See below for available support services: • 1800 Respect national helpline: 1800 737 732. • Women's Crisis Line: 1800 811 811. • Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114. • Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277. • Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491. • NSW Domestic Violence Line:1800 656 463.

OLLONDILLY Shire has awarded the tender for the construction of Tahmoor Sports Complex Stage Two - the next exciting phase in the Tahmoor Sporting Complex Master Plan. The project includes the redevelopment of the existing soccer and cricket fields with an improved field surface and infrastructure including floodlighting, irrigation and drainage. Public open tender process for the construction of Tahmoor Sports Complex Stage Two began in June2023 and is currently being finalised. The Tender Evaluation Committee has recommended Council accept the tender from TJ & Fordham Pty Ltd T/ As TRN Group. This stage is funded through the NSW Government Multi Sport Community Facility Fund and Council co-contribution to a value of $4,152,232.00, not in developer contributions may be required. Mayor Matt Gould said: “I’m really looking forward to seeing the Tahmoor District Sporting Complex move into its next stage with the upgrades bringing the facility into a truly state of the art, district facility.” “Work should begin on the ground by the end of October and we expect this stage to be completed by last August 2024. The tenders process for a car park will also begin shortly,” he said. Member for Wollondilly, Judy Hannan MP (pictured) said: "This is a great initiative co-funded by the NSW Government, I’m looking forward to watching the young people developing their skills and healthy lifestyle." "Ashleigh Brazill as a five-year-old played on the same courts and has since taken her skills to the highest level.

Camden Local Business Awards Winners 2023

A heartfelt thank you to Our customers and staff in winning the Camden local business Awards 2023. To our remarkable staff: Your dedication, passion, and hard work have paved the way for this achievement. Your commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of greatness are the driving forces behind our success. To our customers: Your trust, loyalty, and support have elevated us to new heights. Your patronage and feedback have been invaluable in shaping our business. We are profoundly grateful for the privilege of serving you and will continue to strive for excellence in everything we do. This award is shared with My staff and Customers. Thank you again, Andrew, (Pizza Spot)

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ISSUE 9 | September

Newsbytes

ISSUE 10 | October 2023

Australia Post seeks workers AUSTRALIA Post is seeking to hire approximately 3,000 seasonal casual workers in preparation for the busy Christmas season. The recruitment drive focuses on candidates with specific skills, experience, and licenses, especially those with valid forklift or truck licenses. Roles are available nationwide, with NSW, Victoria, and Queensland having the highest demand. These seasonal casuals will assist Australia Post in meeting the increased demand and ensuring timely holiday deliveries. Interested individuals can apply through the Australia Post careers website, with opportunities for longer-term employment beyond the holiday season. www.auspost. com.au/seasonalcasuals or the Australia Post careers website at jobs.auspost.com.au.www. auspost.com.au/seasonalcasuals

Investment in koala protection THE NSW Government is investing $80M to protect koalas and their habitat in south-west Sydney. This includes $48 million for a new National Park along the Georges River, adding over 1,000 hectares to the NSW national park system. Additionally, $26M will be used for koala-friendly crossings, while $5.7M will support koala care in the Macarthur

area. This forms part of a broader $172M commitment to koala conservation by the NSW Government.

Grants for seniors isolation THE NSW Government has launched a $600,000 initiative called the Connecting Seniors grant program to enhance social engagement and skill development among seniors. Minister for Seniors

Jodie Harrison announced the program, aiming to combat social isolation among older individuals, especially those living alone. The program has three categories, offering creation grants of $20,000 each to five innovative projects, enhancement/expansion grants of $30,000 each to 120 organizations, and local council grants of $40,000 each to five councils. These grants build on previous successful

7 initiatives, focusing on reducing senior isolation and loneliness. Applications close on October 25, with projects starting in early 2024.

Coles in fundraising campaign COLES has initiated a one-month fundraising campaign across Australia for seven charities. The appeal aims to raise funds for various local causes, such as pediatric brain cancer research, school kitchen gardens, and children’s hospitals. Shoppers can purchase $2 donation cards or donate at the checkout in most states and territories, with WA offering support for Telethon until October 22. Hummingbird House, a children’s hospice in Queensland, is among the beneficiaries, with Coles marking ten years of partnership, having raised over $4.3M. Funds raised will also benefit other state charity partners.

Extent of mortgage stress reveled A NEW survey by finance platform MNY reveals that 75% of Australian mortgage holders or those living with a mortgage holder have been negatively affected by interest rate rises, leading to potential social issues. Since May 2022, the cash rate has risen 12 times, with mortgage interest averaging around 6.5%, causing financial stress. Nearly half (49%) report heightened stress and anxiety, while 29% experience mental health issues or sleeplessness. Additionally, 8% have worse relationships with family, and 11% with their partners. Young Australians aged 18 to 34 seem most affected, with 83% reporting negative impacts. Furthermore, 75% of respondents won’t trust RBA forecasts again.

NewS

ISSUE 10 | October 2023

REIMAGINING CAMPBELLTOWN

CBD art comes alive for summer

AMPBELLTOWN’S business centre is undergoing beautification with pavements, street furniture and public arts to refresh the amenities for public enjoyment, mayor George Greiss said. While attractive artworks of five acclaimed artists are visibly seen around the city’s centre installed last month, a series of renovations is also happening along Queen Street, between Browne Street and Bradbury Avenue. The works started with 700 sqm of pavements replaced in key locations to improve the accessibility for people and businesses, Dr Greiss said.

“These works will refresh the street furniture which has been well used by people looking for a place to eat over lunch or catch up with friends,” he said. The works include patching cracks, potholes and uneven surfaces along Queen Street, furniture installation, replacement of timber decking with artificial grass and shade. Weeping Lilly Pilly trees will be planted along Browne Street and Cordeaux Street, with project completion early next year. Continued on page 9

A collage of the public arts on display at Campbelltown business centre.

NewS

ISSUE 10 | October 2023 Continued from page 8

Augmented reality opportunity for locals

Beyond the walls of the Campbelltown Arts Centre, the murals are out on the city’s main streets – praised by people seeing them as streetscapes – the works of five artists with strong connections to the Macarthur region. The centre initiated the artistic program in the public domain to showcase Campbelltown City Council’s plan called ‘Reimagining Campbelltown’, and it is also available for online viewing. Residents looking to learn more about public art can explore them through augmented reality as part of the ARt After Dark Trail at the Festival of Fisher’s Ghost. The program aims to drive visitation to Western Sydney CBDs after 5pm such as the Macarthur region’s towns, through art and cultural offerings developed by local creatives in community precincts. Funded by the NSW Government’s Culture Up Late Western Sydney program and serving as a collaboration between Council and Campbelltown Arts Centre.

“This augmented reality trail is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to our community to learn more about the amazing public art on display in our CBD by accessing the trail on their phone,” Dr Greiss said. These are the locations where the public can physically view “Reimagining Campbelltown” streetscapes funded by the NSW Government CBD Revitalisation Fund. ‘Spinning the Fire Sutra’ by Savanhdary Vongpoothorn from Laos and a graduate of Western Sydney University located at the western wall of the Family and Community Services building on Anzac Lane. Renowned indigenous artist Blak Douglas’ major mural commissioned by the Council in 2012 is called ‘The Standout’in homage to the Dharawal Dreamtime Story of the Seven Eucalypts located at Lithgow Mall installed across the bus shelters of Campbelltown City Railway Station. Chinese-aboriginal artist Jason

Wing’s ‘Three Mobs’ created last year can be seen on the south 7Eleven wall at the intersection of Dumaresq St and Queen St, Campbelltown’s busiest intersection. Danielle Mate’s ‘Raw Undoings’ greets locals from the east wall of Ralph’s

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Pharmacy on Carberry Lane, along Queen Street. Her artwork is funded by the NSW Government’s Festival of Place Open Street Grant. ‘Breathing Life (Bula ni Cegu and Paghinga ng Buhay)’ created last year by Victoria Garcia and Bayvick Lawrance is prominently displayed at Patrick Street. The work depicts an intersection of two artists who both grew up in the Macarthur region, originally hailed from the Philippines. Also, at Lithgow Mall is ‘Forum Q’ created in 2021 by Campbelltown local artist Feras Shaheen, for people to gather, train in dancing together and create right in the heart of the Campbelltown CBD. Feras’ project concept is in collaboration with the centre and funded by the NSW Government Streets as Shared Spaces.

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VITAL ROLE OF GOOD STAFF

Be prepared say Govt experts BY DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

REPARING for the unexpected and having your staff primed to react quickly are the key elements of business survival and success in 2023. Before the pandemic, Future Business was all about technology and finding new ways of automating your system and making the most of data. But many managers and owners now realise they took their staff for granted and while technology is essential, it doesn’t achieve the sales, the marketing and the personal touch that ‘good people’ achieve. Three years later, businesses are converting back to looking after their human resources, hiring good staff and training them to react quickly to difficult situations. With ongoing uncertainty due to the global pandemic, it’s a good idea to make sure your business continues to prepare for unexpected situations in 2023. The Federal Government’s business. gov.au has some excellent, easy to read advice on business essentials. There may be continued disruptions to supply chains due to varying border restrictions and labor shortage issues, particularly if you rely on imported goods for your business. The site has Tips to prepare your business: • Keeping updated with the latest information regarding supply chain disruptions that could affect your business and industry. • Having plans in place for what to do in the event of a disruption to your supplies. • Looking into alternate suppliers who can maintain your stock if you’re unable to get it from your usual supplier. • Get tips on how to prepare your

business for an emergency before it happens. The site also has advice on finding suppliers, negotiating contracts, building relationships and resolving disputes. Mental health and wellbeing Following the uncertainties and challenges of the past years, it’s become more important than ever to look after your and your staff’s mental health and wellbeing. Having a mentally healthy workplace involves having: • A culture that understands mental health is everyone’s responsibility.

• Plans in place to manage mental health risks. • Staff that feel supported to talk about mental health. • Tailored mental health support for you and your staff.

Hiring good staff Just how much businesses are depending on staff is highlighted in the employment figures for last year, In 2021, the number of small businesses increased by 14.2% from 2018. Hiring staff is a natural part of business growth, allowing you to accomplish more

in your business. Staff can also bring in fresh ideas and skills. Before you employ someone, business.gov.au said you should make sure you are clear on: • The tasks you need the employee to do. • The skills and qualifications they need to have. • How long and how often you will need them for eg full-time or parttime, a permanent or temporary position. Details are included on the business.gov.au site.

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

Mental Health We all have a

Role to Play

ver the past few years, with COVID-19 to homeschooling, lockdowns to floods, Western Sydney has proven that when times are tough, our communities rally together to get through. Mental health has been one of the biggest challenges people have faced in our region though, and it’s important to keep checking in and making sure everyone has access to the best support possible. The theme of this year’s Mental Health Month is, ‘We All Have A Role To Play’. So, whether you’re worried about a neighbour, or feeling a bit out of sorts yourself, now is the time to find out about free support services in your area and help change the stigma around mental health.

Six Tips to Boost Your Wellbeing 1. Socialise: spend time with friends and loved ones 2. Make time for yourself: play your favourite music, write a diary, meditate 3. Speak up and listen: talk to someone you trust, or be that listening ear 4. Get active: walk outside, do some yoga, join a free workout class 5. Feed the soul: nourish your body with some healthy recipes 6. Recharge: get enough sleep, practice mindfulness, and relax

Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.

Did you know? Last year, headspace centres in Western Sydney provided 10,969 face-to-face sessions to young people and 1,931 telephone sessions.

Support for Adults: Head to Health

Support for Young People: Headspace

If you’re not feeling OK, Head to Health provides free advice to help direct you to the best support networks. Head to Health Adult Mental Health Centre (AMHC) in Parramatta is open 9am to 9pm, Monday to Friday, and 3pm to 7pm on weekends and public holidays.

Getting mental health support early on can arm young people with the tools to build happier, healthier, more productive lives leading into adulthood. In Western Sydney, there are headspace centres located in Parramatta, Mount Druitt, and Castle Hill to help young people aged 12-25 years old get the support they need. The headspace teams provide counselling, GP advice, peer advice, work and study support, help with alcohol and other drug challenges, and Early Psychosis services.

Their friendly team are happy to meet you at any stage of your mental health journey, whether it’s popping in for a quick cup of coffee to destress, finding a quiet space to calm down, chatting to a peer worker with lived experience, talking to a psychologist, or working with a coordinator to find the best local service to support your needs. The service is free to access, close to public transport, and requires no referral, Medicare card, or previous mental health diagnosis.

You can get a free appointment by calling the national Head to Health line on 1800 595 212 (8:30am to 5:00pm weekdays) or dropping into the centre at Head to Health Parramatta, Ground Floor, Suite 1, 150 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150.

TraveL

ISSUE 10 | October 2023

Mature age caravan numbers growing fast DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

HE Australian caravan and camping industry has experienced significant growth over the past 10 years thanks to mature age baby boomers and it shows no signs of slowing down. According to the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA), the industry has seen a steady increase in the number of caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents being sold. This growth is driven by a number of factors, including an increasing desire for Australian’s to travel and explore their own country, and a shift in consumer preferences towards more affordable and sustainable forms of travel. One of the key segments of the caravan and camping industry that has seen significant growth over the past 10 years is the camper trailer market. According to the CIAA, camper trailer sales have grown by over 30% in the past decade. This growth is driven by a desire for more affordable and versatile forms of travel, as well as the increasing popularity of free camping and off-road adventures. “Camper trailers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for Australian’s looking to explore their own backyard,” says Jane Calvert, CEO of the CIAA. “They offer a more affordable and sustainable form of travel, and they are perfect for those who want to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.” The motorhome market has also seen significant growth in the past 10 years, with sales growing by over 20%.

This growth is driven by a desire for more luxurious forms of travel, as well as an increasing number of retirees and baby boomers looking to travel in comfort. “Motorhomes are becoming increasingly popular with retirees and baby boomers who are looking for a more comfortable and convenient way to travel,” says Tim Allerton, Managing Director of the motorhome manufacturer, Avida. “They offer all the comforts of home, and they allow people to travel in style and luxury.” The tent market has also seen growth over the past 10 years, driven by a renewed interest in camping and the outdoors. According to the CIAA, tent sales have grown by over 10%.

“Tents are becoming increasingly popular with people who want to experience the great outdoors in a more affordable and sustainable way,” says Jane Calvert, CEO of the CIAA. “Camping is a great way to experience the beauty of Australia and to connect with nature.” Looking to the future, the caravan and camping industry is expected to continue to grow in popularity. According to a recent report by IBISWorld, the industry is expected to grow at a rate of 3.5% per year, reaching a value of $4.5 billion by 2030. The industry will be driven by an increasing number of retirees and baby boomers looking to travel, as well as a growing interest in sustainable forms of travel.

“The caravan and camping industry is set for significant growth in the coming years,” says Tim Allerton, Managing Director of Avida. “There is a growing interest in sustainable forms of travel, and the industry is well positioned to meet this demand.” Overall, the Australian caravan and camping industry has experienced significant growth over the past 10 years and is expected to continue to grow in popularity in the future. With an increasing number of Mature Age Australians looking to explore their own country and a shift in consumer preferences towards more affordable and sustainable forms of travel, the industry is well positioned to meet this demand.

Live a better life in Western Sydney Since 1985, SydWest Multicultural Services has supported diverse refugee and migrant communities across the Greater Western Sydney. We support people of all ages and cultures, with a focus on the vulnerable and most in need.

Specialising in the provision of culturally responsive care, we recognise culture and language is key to building community connections and empowering people to reach their full potential. From our youth and family services, including domestic violence support, settlement and housing support services, employment and training, to our home care and disability services, there is a program or service for every member of the family. • SydWest Home care for seniors • SydWest Disability services • Women and families • Employment and training

• Youth • Settlement services • Support with housing

Find out more about our programs and services that can support you or a family member call 9621 6633 Come and visit our SydWest Multicultural Services stall at the Wexpo to speak with our friendly team. Keep an eye out as we launch our rebrand with a vibrant new look!

AutO

ISSUE 10 | October 2023

Zesty all-wheel drive variant offers 320kW 600Nm all-electric powertrain for under $60K

MATT BROGAN

G MOTOR Australia and New Zealand has announced pricing and details for its incoming MG4 XPower, the zesty all-wheel drive variant featuring a 320kW/600Nm all-electric powertrain – and enthusiastic 3.8-second 0-100km/h time – for just $59,990 plus on-road costs. The variant is the most powerful MG in Australia to date and is available for preregistration via the MG public website from Friday, October 6. MG’s high-powered, all-wheel drive and full-electric hatch is said to deliver “breathtaking power and dynamics” from its dual-motor driveline and boasts a series of “understated exterior design revisions” to differentiate it from the derivative line-up. MG Motor Australia and New Zealand say the vehicle is “expected to fly under the radar in comparison to the usual high-powered hatchback offerings”, characterised only by orange-painted brake callipers, a twotone black roof, new-look 18-inch alloy wheels with polished trim accents and Bridgestone Turanza tyres, and an exclusive new Hunter Green paint option. Like the MG4 on which it is based, the MG4 XPower is underpinned by MG’s Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) and new dual-motor configuration. The front motor delivers 150kW and the rear 170kW, a “technological upgrade” claimed to “effectively distribute power and maximise driver engagement while cornering”. The technology, dubbed Dynamic Cornering Control System, is offered for the first time on the MG4 XPower, combining an electronic locking differential

and Intelligent Motor Control to allow torque vectoring between all four wheels. MG says the system generates maximum traction and outstanding composure across a wide variety of driving conditions. Further, the MG4 XPower boasts a comprehensive range of suspension upgrades, including recalibrated spring and damper tuning, stiffer anti-roll bars and a sharper steering tune. MG says overall suspension stiffness is increased by 25 per cent, “meaning the MG4 XPower will build upon the acclaimed handling characteristics of the current MG4 range”. Increased stopping power from four-wheel 345mm ventilated rotors is said to reduce the MG4 XPower’s 100-0km/h braking distance to just 33.9 metres. The MG4 XPower features a familiar 64kWh battery which may be charged at a rate of up to 140kW (DC), topping the pack’s charge from 10 to 80 per cent in 26 minutes. “The MG4 XPower has supercar performance packed with features including launch control and a track model-inspired lap timer showing that a compact EV can be affordable, practical and spirited to drive,” said MG Motor Australia and New Zealand CEO, Peter Ciao.

“We expect it will appeal to customers looking for a true performance car with plenty of technology and space to match. The MG4 XPower EV also retains the generous safety equipment levels, as well as practical hatchback features, of the award-winning MG4 range.”

MG Motor MG4 pricing*: Excite 51kWh (a)

$38,990

Essence 77kWh (a)

$55,990

Excite 64kWh (a)

$44,990

XPower 64kWh AWD (a) $59,990 New variant

Essence 64kWh (a)

$47,990

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.

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ACROSS 1 Crumbled (9) 6 Celestial being (5) 9 Tall structure (5) 10 Cue and ball game (9) 11 Maltreatment (5) 12 Lifeless (9) 13 Utmost (7) 14 Football (6) 17 Conquer (6) 20 Defamation (7) 23 Express regret (9) 25 Beget (5) 26 Lab worker (9) 27 Christmas song (5) 28 Hate (5) 29 Nice guy (9)

7 8 15 16

21 Explanatory drawing (7) 22 Sickness (6) 24 Possessor (5)

Rubbish (7) Inferior (6) Traditional (9) US Founding Father, Benjamin — (8) 18 Terminate (7) 19 Elevating (7) 20 Add sugar (7)

Quaint houses (8) Case (7) Harmony (9) Lofty (7) Australian currency units (7) Evidence of being elsewhere (5)

In terms of disk storage, how many bits are in a byte?

How many hearts does an octopus have: one, two or three?

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5

For what role did Anthony Hopkins (pictured) win an Academy Award for best actor?

What sort of seeds does a gymnospermous plant have?

Embryonic stem cells are derived from eggs that are how old?

What colour is anthracite?

As a part-song without instrumental accompaniment, a madrigal is usually for how many voices?

Where are a lobster’s teeth located?

Was Yellow Submarine the eigth, ninth or 10th studio album released by The Beatles?

10 The flag for what country features a red dragon?

4x4 ACROSS

1 Atlas contents (4) 5 Variety of succulent (4) 6 Part played (4) 7 Plant’s support (4)

DOWN

SUDOKU

No. 034

MEDIUM

4 3

1 Planet (4) 2 Large amount (1,3) 3 Long slender support (4) 4 Look (4)

HARD

7 3 2 4 8 7 8 2 9

9 3

7 8 5 9 3 6 6 2 9

5 4

9-LETTER WORD

T I

S E

L E

44 words: Good 66 words: Very good 89 words: Excellent

3 6 8

5 6 7 8

5 9 4 3

5 8 1 7 6

2 2 5 2 3

WORD FIND

No. 034

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

3 1 7

No. 034 Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”. Secret message:

AMAZON

COLOMBIA

PIRANHA

ANACONDA

GALAPAGOS

RIO

ANDES

GUYANA

SURINAME

ARGENTINA

MACAW

VENEZUELA

BRAZIL

MACHU PICCHU

CAPYBARA

PATAGONIA

puzzles WORD FILL ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.

1 2 3 4 5

Meals are served at the dinner — Pedal that slows a car Fruit for making cider or juice Sweet substance stirred into tea Wilt

6 7 8

Sportsperson who wears punching gloves Waterhole in the desert A type of ape

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW... 1. After school, what did Monk work as? A. A flight attendant B. A model C. A Marilyn Monroe impersonator D. A singing teacher 2. What was the name of her all-girl pop group? A. Sister2Sister B. Bardot C. Monroe D. Young Divas

SOphie MONk 3. Which band’s music video did she feature in? A. Blink-182 B. Foo Fighters C. Nickelback D. Linkin Park 4. She didn’t have a role in which movie? A. Just Go With it B. Date Movie C. Click D. Spring Breakdown

Puzzles AND and PAGINATION PagInatIon © PAGEMASTERS Pagemasters PTY Pty LTD. ltd. PUzzLES Pagemasters.com PAGEMASTERS.COM

1023 1203 1003

X Y G N J A O T K B WQ R 15

C D P HM L F S V U Z E I 3

CODEWORD CODeWORD

ENTERTAINMENT WORDFILL CROSSWORD

9-LETTER WORD

qUIZ 1. Eight. 2. Three. 3. Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Silence of the Lambs). 4. Naked seeds. 5. Less than a week old. 6. Dark grey (coal). 7. Five or six. 8. In its stomach. 9. 10th. 10. Wales.

TODAY’S SOLUTiONS

CROSS MATH

5x5

HIDDEN WORD

4x4 ACROSS: 1. Maps, 5. Aloe, 6. Role, 7. Stem. DOWN: 1. Mars, 2. A lot, 3. Pole, 4. Seem.

D e R

e T T Y e R I e R A M A

J A D

e D S

10 LeTTeRS CRITICISED DISGRUNTLE

5x5

film (8) No. 010 Netflix animated series about two bird women, –×& Bertie–(4) = 31 4 Actor known for × Fight×Club and × Primal Fear × (6,6)– = 17 5 – Aussie for – actor known + playing Logan in the + × = 13 X-Men franchise, (4)= = – Jackman = 655 Plays9Donatella 38 Versace in American Crime Story, – Cruz (8) 8 Star of As GoodNo. as It009 Gets and Little Miss Sunshine, – Kinnear (4) letters Insert the missing to make 10 words – Netflix’s 9 Voices Aughra in five reading across the The Dark Crystal: Age of grid and five reading Resistance, – Kimball (5) down. 13 English actor who plays Roy Silver on crime NOTe: more than one series may Agatha Raisin, solution be possible Mathew – (5) 15 Actress (pictured) who played the title role in 2018’s Mary Queen of Scots (7,5) 3

8 LeTTeRS OPERATES PREPARES

SCANTIER SCRAMMED

CROSS MATH

CRADLED RELYING STEEPER

HIDDEN WORD Table, brake, apple, sugar, droop, boxer, oasis, chimp (TEARDROP)

12 Actor known for Napoleon Dynamite (3,5) 14 Pandora in Sleepy Hollow and Theresa in Wayward Insert each number from 1 to Pines, Shannyn – (8) 9 in the shaded squares to 16 solve Anthology crime show all the horizontal and set in Minnesota vertical equations. (5) 17 Plays Wes Gardner in Multiplication and, division Scream Queens are performed – Hudson (6)before addition subtraction. 19 Connie and in 2017’s Good Time, – Pattinson (6) 21 Another word for a repeated episode of TV (5) 23 Actress known for playing Karolina Dean on Runaways, – Gardner (8) 25 Nicolas Cage steals the Declaration of Independence in National – (8) 27 Plays Alexandra Reid in Marvel’s The Defenders, – Weaver (9) 29 2010 French comedy about a trophy wife (7)

SEWED 31 2013 thrillerTENET starring Liam UNTIE SHAPE Hemsworth, Dwayne WHALE SLEDS Johnson and Emma YACHT SMEAR Roberts (6,5) SMILE 32 Star of Tammy and 6 LeTTeRS SMITE Hereditary,LASSES – Collette (4) SMOTE SOBER STEEPS SPARE DOWN STREW 7 LeTTeRS 2 Stu from What We Do in SUITE AERIALS the Shadows is one of SYRUP ASTUTER these by theCOWGIRL end of the TACOS

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?

aisle, alert, alit, alter, aril, atelier, earl, earliest, easel, elate, elite, else, isle, islet, lair, laser, last, late, later, latest, latter, lease, least, leer, leet, lest, letter, liar, lira, lire, list, lister, lite, literate, litre, litter, rail, rattle, real, realise, realist, reel, relate, resale, reseal, retail, rial, rile, sail, sale, salt, salter, saltier, seal, sealer, serial, settle, settler, silt, slat, slate, sleet, slier, slit, slitter, stale, staler, starlet, starlit, startle, STATELIER, steal, stealer, steel, stele, sterile, stile, stilt, tail, tale, teal, tile, tiler, tilt, tilts, title, trail, trestle, trial

5 LeTTeRS ADMIT ADULT ALONE BASIS BASKS BEGUN CROSS DAMPS DREAD DRESS EAVES EDGES EERIE ELOPE ERRED FOAMY 1 1970s TV series GOODO 4 LeTTeRS revitalised inGRAFT 2017 (1,1,1,1) AIMS HASTE 7 Period drama set in preARIA IVORY Civil War America (11) AVOS LEAVE 10 Australia’s longestBASK LIARS show (7) CHATrunning travel NEEDS CYST2004 fantasy OCEAN 11 film EGGSstarring Anne OILED Hathaway, FOESElla – (9) PIANO IONS SEDAN

18 English actor who plays the lead role in Luther, – Elba (5) 20 Not a remake or a sequel (8) 22 Canadian drama series starring William Baldwin as John West, – Rescue (8) 24 Plays Matthew Clairmont in fantasy series A Discovery of Witches, Matthew – (5) 26 Missi – played Ellen Abbott in Gone Girl and Cleo Coles on Impulse (4) 28 2000s interview show on the ABC, Enough – with Andrew Denton (4) 30 Stars as Odafin Tutuola on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (3-1)

8 × 5 – 9 = 31 × × × 7 × 3 – 4 = 17 – – + 1 + 6 × 2 = 13 = = = 55 9 38

KNEW KNIT LETS NINE PAPA PATE PUCK TEST WIVE

No. 034

ANSWERS: 1C, 2B, 3A, 4A.

3 LeTTeRS ALE APE ARE ARM ART CAT DID EAT ELM ERR FOG GET GIN HES ILL KIT LSD MOB PAL PEN RAM REV TEE TIE TWO ACROSS WAR

CODEWORD

No. 008 043

WORD FIND Secret message: Very diverse place

2 9 7 3 6 1 8 5 4 8 5 6 2 4 9 3 7 1 1 4 3 8 5 7 6 2 9 6 7 8 9 2 5 1 4 3 5 2 9 1 3 4 7 8 6 4 3 1 6 7 8 5 9 2 9 1 2 7 8 3 4 6 5 3 8 5 4 9 6 2 1 7 7 6 4 5 1 2 9 3 8

9 3 2 7 4 5 8 1 6 1 8 5 6 2 9 4 3 7 4 7 6 1 3 8 9 2 5 3 1 9 5 7 4 6 8 2 6 4 7 8 1 2 5 9 3 5 2 8 9 6 3 7 4 1 7 5 3 4 8 1 2 6 9 8 6 1 2 9 7 3 5 4 2 9 4 3 5 6 1 7 8

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

qUICK CROSSWORD

SYDWEST Innovation Insights (II) The Success Channel

Innovation Insights About Your Presenter

Innovation Insights looks at clever ways to do business, grow enterprises and engage with your community. Business practitioners, agencies, leaders and celebrities share insights in a series of filmed interviews with broadcaster and journalist Suzy Michael. Hosted permanently at www.sydwest.tv and transcribed for publication in print via Access News, II is an entertaining and informative resource for business, enterprises and leaders to garner tips for success.

Suzy Michael is a highly respected and charismatic media professional with a remarkable career spanning over 25 years throughout various media platforms, making her a versatile and respected figure in the industry. Her extensive repertoire includes roles as a television presenter, journalist, producer, news anchor, and print editor. Suzy’s passion and commitment shine through her diverse body of work.

Innovation Insights – Establish Expertise II is produced and sourced in Western Sydney, Australia’s fastest growing region and home to the country’s newest 24-hour international airport. II is designed to capture expert insights into business success, community engagement and leadership from the people who know. Our audience includes Western Sydney and outside the region extending overseas via Access News.

As a former Young Australian of the Year Award runner-up, Suzy’s career has evolved in tandem with the ever-changing media landscape.

Innovation Insights Introductory Offer $3,700 INC GST Includes initial consultation , three expert interview segments, video production and editing, segment logo creation, subject research, transcription to print and published in Access News print and online, supply of video files, hosted at www.sydwest.tv, venue hire and social media sharing.

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