OMEN across the Macarthur area are benefitting from enhanced health and wellbeing services, thanks to $3.6M total investment over four years from the NSW Government. This investment has been boosted as part of $34.3M 2023-2024 budget commitment which is enhancing care and support for women at 20 Women’s Health Centres across NSW. More inside.
ISSUE 26 | February 2023
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BOOST TO WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTRE Enhanced services from $36M grant
WOMEN across the Macarthur area are benefitting from enhanced health and wellbeing services, thanks to $3.6M total investment over four years from the Minns Labor Government.
This investment has been boosted as part of $34.3M 2023-2024 budget commitment which is enhancing care and support for women at 20 Women’s Health Centres across NSW.
For nearly four decades, the Macarthur Women's Health Centre has been committed to providing health and wellbeing assistance for women living in Campbelltown, Camden, and Wollondilly.
Macarthur Women's Health Centre provides support to hundreds of women each year, from August to December 2024, provided approximately 300 occasions of service to the 170 women who attended the centre for counselling, casework, or allied health support.
Services at Macarthur Women’s Health Centre are provided by women for women and include a variety of counselling and therapeutic groups, crisis support, case management and advocacy, as well as health education opportunities.
The Centre partners with other NGOs and health services to provide these services including a women’s health clinic by Family Planning NSW, therapeutic groups with Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, and the Antenatal Safestart program by Campbelltown Hospital.
An additional 21 groups, workshops and events were hosted for women attracting more than 500 occasions of attendance.
Minister for Health, Ryan Park said: “I'm so pleased to see firsthand the incredible work which is being done at the Macarthur Women's Health Centre.
“The centre’s dedication to improving the lives of women through an integrated approach to health and other services makes it a critical resource for the Macarthur community.
“Our investment means the Centre has been able to increase staff numbers, offer healthcare and counselling services to more women, reduce waitlists for counselling appointments, and improve the lives of women with this integrated approach to care.”
Member for Campbelltown, Greg Warren said:
“For 37 years the Macarthur Women’s Health Centre has been front and centre supporting women in our community, and I’m so pleased to visit today and see that legacy living on.
“This recent boost in funding is having far-reaching benefits to the Macarthur community, improving the lives of women who need to access these vital services in times of crisis.”
Health Minister Ryan Park with Campbeltownn MP Greg Warren with staff at the centre.
Wollondilly’s citizens of the year
THIS year’s Wollondilly Citizens of the Year are Annette and Rob Pearce, a husband and wife team who have contributed selflessly to their local community over many years.
Annette and Rob are long-term Wollondilly residents and active members of numerous organisations both locally and Australia wide, including: Picton View Club, Fellow of Australia Writers,(NSW and Wollondilly branches), Picton Horticultural and Industrial Society Inc, Nangarin Book Club, Nangarin Executive and Project Grow Volunteers.
Mayor Matt Gould said, “I would like to congratulate and thank all this year’s nominees and winners for all the amazing work they do in our communities across the Shire.”
“In particular I would like to con-
Cgratulate Wollondilly’s Citizens of the Year, Annette and Rob Pearce for their amazing contribution to local community groups.”
“They are an amazing couple whose selfless efforts have enriched and encouraged others and helped to make Wollondilly an even better place.”
Other category winners for 2025 are:
• Young Citizen of the Year–Ellen Stucki.
• Achiever of the Year–Mick Seccull.
• Sportsperson of the Year–Renee Fitzsimmons.
• Local Hero–Brian Page.
• Local Hero Community Group–The Blue Butterfly Institute.
• Environmental Citizens of the Year–Mel Johnstone and Mitch Peronis.
• Disability Inclusion Award–Jessica
Service centre refurbished
USTOMERS in Campbelltown will now have access to government services in a fully refurbished site.
The Campbelltown Service Centre will feature a new contemporary layout that has customer needs front of mind.
“We’re so grateful to be able to do business with the local community in a brand-new space,” Service Centre Manager, Berna said.
“We’ll be offering the same Cen-
trelink and Medicare services, but in a way that’s easier for customers to access.
“Centrelink customers that want certainty around the time that they speak to a staff member can book an appointment online through their myGov account, by calling their regular payment line, or visiting us here.”
Digital coaching sessions are also available for customers needing some
support accessing our online services. Customers can book this by calling their regular payment line or by speaking to staff at the service centre. There’s free public parking nearby, and public transport available. Bus routes 870, 871, 872, 877, 878, 880, 881, 882 all stop within a 3-minute walk.
The service centre will continue to operate Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 4:30pm, at 8-10 Browne Street, Campbelltown.
Cronje.
• Special Age Award–Willow Gumbley.
• Senior Citizen of the Year–Evelyn McDonald.
The new centre.
GENDER DISPARITY IN EDUCATION A CONCERN
Where are our male teachers?
JANAKAN SEEMAMPILLAI
AS the school year kicks into full swing for 2025, there is a major problem lurking in the classroom and playground.
It isn’t due to a health pandemic or lack of funding, but rather the fact the number of male teachers at the primary school level in Western Sydney has plummeted to critically low levels, with some primary schools not having any men among their teaching ranks.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), less than 18 per cent of teachers in primary schools across the country are male. In NSW, this figure falls to 14 per cent, and schools across Western Sydney mirror this concerning number. There has been a 50 per cent drop from the 1980s, when roughly one in three teachers were male.
Natalie Farrugia, who teaches at Widemere Primary School in Greystanes, admits something needs to be done to fix this alarming trend.
“There is not one male teacher at the school I work at and it’s appalling,” said Farrugia, who is 23 and embarking on what she hopes is a long teaching career.
“It is such a wonderful and rewarding career, but it is a career that can be for anyone and everyone. It’s time to break the stereotype of teaching being a ‘female job.’
“Teaching needs to be promoted as a valued career for men. We need to see more men when advertising the education profession, including making male teachers more visible, especially for the lower age groups.”
This problem isn’t confined to Australia, with a number of western countries seeing similarly low numbers for male teachers. In the USA only 23% of primary school teachers are male,
while in the UK it is only 15%.
Interestingly, at the secondary school level in Australia, nearly 39% of the teaching population are male, while in NSW it is nudging 41%.
There are various reasons given for males not pursuing teaching careers at the primary school level, from the thought that women are more nurturing with children, to the widely held view that men are concerned about working with younger age groups due to potential allegations that could be made against them.
Farrugia believes the key to fixing this is to show men that working with
young children has far more reward than risk.
“I think children would love to have more male figures and role models in their lives. Kids are so appreciative of those who give their time and attention to them,” Farrugia said.
Farrugia, who completed her teaching degree at Macquarie University, isn’t convinced the numbers will increase any time soon.
“When I was studying only a few years ago, in a class of more than 30 students, we honestly had on average one male per class. As we got closer to the end, they were dropping like flies,” she said.
Farrrugia’s comments are sadly accurate, with only 28% of students enrolled in initial teacher education programs across the country identifying as male, but this figure incorporates secondary education as well as special education, for primary school it is thought to be much lower.
The pay rates for teachers makes for interesting reading. Primary school teachers in NSW expected to earn between $75,000 to $122,000, with the average sitting at just below $96,000 in 2024, which lines up with the average salary for employees across Australia for all industries based on ABS data.
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.
KIDS PUNISHED FOR POSTING
Little evidence for new law
POSTING social media content
that shows motor vehicle theft and break and enters is now a serious crime that attracts up to two years jail on top of whatever sentence you receive for the head crimes.
So called performance crime is a new offence created by an amendment to the Crimes Act 1900
Many in the legal community are concerned that through this law kids are being made scapegoats for the government’s inability to control the social media giants.
The amendment to the Crimes Act effectively permits a sentence of up to two years jail to be bolted on to the any sentence for motor vehicle theft and (or) the break and enter.
Little evidence has been produced, or relied, in the drafting of the new law that shows a causal link between posting a crime and the commission of future crime.
“Anybody who posts social media content of themselves in the commission of a serious crime is obviously no master criminal –this new law is all about punishing children for posting,” Parramatta criminal solicitor, Mathew Nott, said.
“The authorities are clearly worried about the potential these posts have to incite ‘copycat’ crimes but there is no evidence that occurs.”
“The real issue here is that social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat don’t block child porn posts, footage of terrorists beheading people, or live streaming of massacres – let alone car theft and joyriding.
“The government can’t control these platforms, so kids who post are in line for disproportionate jail sentences so authorities can tell
the community that they are tough on crime.”
“The authorities are clearly worried about the potential these posts have.”
The new law would appear to be directed at children (under 18s) and was passed in response to public outrage over the spike in crime in regional areas during 2022-23, much of it attributed to youths
under 18 years of age.
“We have heard troubling reports, particularly from our communities in regional NSW, of offenders posting footage of their offending behaviour on social media, particularly in relation to motor vehicle offending,” Attorney General Michael Daley, said during the second reading of the bill in NSW Parliament.
“There have also been high-profile examples of this behaviour in the context of serious break and enter offences, sometimes committed in people’s homes while they are asleep.
“Disseminating recordings of offending behaviour online may encourage others to engage in
similar dangerous criminal behaviour.
“It might send the message to impressionable young people, or other people in our community, that criminal acts are socially acceptable. It may also provide people with information or ideas about how to commit criminal offences.”
If you are in legal trouble, contact Sydney’s Nott and Co Lawyers for assistance. www. nottandcolawyers.com.au
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
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.
com.au
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
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.
To start planning your Nevada adventure check out travelnevada.com.
UPDATED MAZDA BT-50 RANGE AVAILABLE from $36,400 - plus on-road costs
MATT BROGAN
MAZDA Australia is introducing its updated BT-50 light commercial utility from this month.
Priced from $36,400 plus on-road costs, the resculpted Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux rival is characterised by a newly designed front bumper, grille, and LED headlights and a ridged design on the dampened tailgate, new LED tail-lights, and a larger Mazda logo at the rear.
Range-wide pricing increases by between $550 and $3510 (see table below).
Inside, changes include a revised 8.0-inch infotainment array and updated 7.0-inch multi-information display touchscreen. Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto (wired) connectivity remain.
Power continues to arrive courtesy of an Isuzu-sourced choice of 1.9- or 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines outputting 110kW/350Nm and 140kW/450Nm respectively. Both units are paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The grade walk begins with the XS single-cab variant, equipped as standard with adaptive cruise control, 17-inch steel wheels, LED headlights, cloth upholstery, and a reversing camera.
The next tier XT grade – available in single-, freestyle- and dual-cab format – adopts 17-inch alloy wheels, the choice of two- and four-wheel drive, rear differential lock (4WD only), rear seat ventilation outlets, Rough Terrain mode, and rear parking sensors (pickup style only).
For the mid-tier XTR – available exclusively in dual-cab format – we find 18-inch alloy wheels, front LED fog lights, auto-levelling headlights, power folding wing mirrors, side steps, daytime running lights, tow hitch, tub liner, larger 9.0-inch infotainment screen, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone climate control, sat nav, and tyre pressure monitoring.
The penultimate BT-50 GT is available only as a four-wheel drive, and adds heated wing mirrors, leather upholstery, eight-way electric driver seat adjustment, front seat heating, remote engine start functionality, and front parking sensors.
Finally, the flagship BT-50 SP gains 18-inch alloy wheels in gloss black, joining gloss black side steps, sail plane, fender flares, roof rails, and door handles. A roller-style tonneau cover (manual) also features, as does Maztex and suede combination upholstery.
An additional range of genuine Mazda accessories remains available.
All BT-50 models are equipped with Lane Keep Assist System (LAS), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Trailer Sway Control (TSC).
Paint colours include Concrete Grey Mica, Geode White Pearl, Ice White Solid, Red Earth Metallic, Ingot
Silver Metallic, Sailing Blue Metallic, and True Black Mica.
“We know that vehicle customisation plays a significant part in fourwheel driving culture,” said Mazda Australia director of sales and marketing Jarrod Gieschen.
“We are therefore proud to have developed such an extensive list of accessories to complement the new Mazda BT-50, providing our customers with the ability to tailor their vehicle to best suit their needs – all while having the peace of mind of being backed by our leading five-year warranty.”
The 2025 Mazda BT-50 range is available now. Initially customer deliveries are set to commence later this month.
