Parramatta Times - March 2024

first ferry in the new Parramatta River Class fleet has been named, with Transport for NSW revealing the Frances Bodkin is commencing builder sea trials in Tasmania. Sea trials will test the vessel in open water with the weight of a standard load of passengers, assessing her operational performance before she sets sail for Sydney Harbour in the coming weeks.

C rew from Sydney Ferries will be on hand as the Frances Bodkin is put through her paces on Hobart’s Derwent River. The seven new vessels in the Australian-made fleet have all been named in honour of Australians who have made significant achievements in the fields of science, environment, and innovation. Read more: page 5.

VALE FORMER MAYOR PAUL BARBER DIES

‘Local hero of the working class’

THE former Parramatta mayor Paul Barber, well-known for his advocacy of workers, indigenous peoples’ welfare and local heritage, has died on Thursday at 70.

Growing up in East Parramatta and educated at Parramatta East Public School and Macquarie Boys High School, Mr Barber followed his father’s footsteps working at the Shell Oil Refinery when an interest to serve his community sparked his entry in local politics.

After a career as a shift controller at Shell, Mr Barber’s concern for Parramatta’s heritage and urban design standards prompted his interest in running for the Parramatta Council elections in the 1990s.

He went on to become a long-time member of the council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee and served on the upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust.

While as member councillor on the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, Mr Barber joined the lobby for both State and Federal Governments for a better deal for local governments.

Mr Barber served his community lengthily as an elected Parramatta City councillor, including as mayor in 2007 and 2008.

On former mayor Paul Barber’s demise on Thursday, Parramatta City Council issued a statement recognising his contribution and lasting legacy as a public servant.

Parramatta Lord Mayor Pierre Esber said: “Paul Barber was the epitome of hard work and dedication to the people of Parramatta.

“In his time involved with the City of Parramatta, he was involved in the creation of the Parramatta Artists Stu-

dio, the restoration of the old Parramatta War Memorial Pool, the introduction of the free shuttle bus in 2008, delivery of the first Sustainability Expo in 2007 and the successful delivery of Social Enterprise Grants for the unemployed, plus many more achievements.”

Former Labor premier Nathan Rees and fellow former mayor of Parramatta David Borger jointly issued a statement honouring the legacy of their colleague who they said was “instrumental in

making Parramatta a better place for all its residents” today.

Mr Rees, who served as the state’s 41st premier in 2008 and 2009 and Mr Borger, an ex-MP and now Business Western Sydney’s executive officer, reminisced on Mr Barber’s achievements.

“Paul worked for many years at the Shell Oil Refinery, following in his father’s footsteps, and would often work shifts after attending lengthy Council meetings.

“He personified the working class of values of the NSW Labor Party of which he was a passionate supporter.

“Paul was much more than a public servant; he was a man of great character, known for his loyalty, good nature, and a profound love for his extended family.

“His presence enriched the lives of those around him, both in professional circles and personal life.

“At this sorrowful time, our thoughts are with his partner, Leanne, and their extended family.

“The loss of Paul is deeply felt by all who knew him, and we stand together in mourning the passing of a true gentleman and community leader.

“Vale Paul Barber. Your memory and contributions will forever be a part of Parramatta’s history.”

The former Lord Mayor of Parramatta City, Paul Barber, in an official photo as mayor.

Photo supplied by Parramatta City Council.

EVERY PHYSIE GIRL’S DREAM Toongabbie makes a winning debut

AMONG top 15 Performers at the Bjelke-Peterson Physical Culture Senior National Finals are four dancers at the Toongabbie Physical Culture Club, making their stunning performances at the Sydney Opera House recently.

The winners in the national division are local teenagers Kayla Walsh, Sarah Burridge, Aliyah Saldanha and Hannah Byatt – who all displayed their winning dancing forms at the competition whose participants come from many parts of the country.

“This is the highest number of members in the history of the club that have qualified to compete at this prestigious venue,” Clover Jones of the TPCC said.

“To celebrate the achievements of our competitors, we will be featuring in a photoshoot around landmarks in Parramatta.

“The girls absolutely loved their experience, there is nothing quite like competing on the prestigious stage, it is every physie girl’s dream.”

“The girls trained hard to improve their fitness, technique, flexibility and dance expression, making their dance teacher proud seeing their hard work and dedication pay off.

“Their preparation meant they could step onto that stage with confi-

dence and be proud of what they had achieved.”

Several teams of teenagers and young adults also took home awards such as 2nd place, 3rd place, and 4th place in various divisions during the competition last December.

On the back of this success, this year the teams will be moving into the highest division, another first for the club, Ms Jones said.

They are popularly known as the Toongabbie Physie Club, a not-for-

profit dance school led by volunteer dance teachers that offers classes for all ages from as young as three to over 70.

Training as a dancer provides women and young girls with health and fitness, good posture, body flexibility, creative expression and empowerment, Ms Jones said.

Among the dance styles offered at TPCC are ballet, modern jazz, aerobics, gymnastic and contemporary dance.

The TPCC is a member of the Bjel-

ke-Petersen School of Physical Culture that has been around for over 125 years as a unique sport for women of all ages helping them build confidence, self-motivation and achieve by learning through dance.

TPCC classes at the Toongabbie Public School on Fitzwilliam Road are held every Tuesdays and Thursdays every school year.

For more details about enrolling in classes with TPCC, visit https://www.toongabbiephysie.org/

The Toongabbie Physical Culture Club winning performers are Kayla Walsh, Sarah Burridge, Aliyah Saldanha and Hannah Byatt pictured on the grounds of the Parramatta Powerhouse Museum. Photo supplied

The Toongabbie dance team at Bjelke-Peterson (BJP) Physical Culture Senior National Finals at the Sydney Opera House are Aliyah Saldanha, Sarah Burridge, Kayla Walsh, Hannah Byatt with teacher Alicia Highfield. Photo supplied

WHERE WILL THE KIDS GO?

PCYC closure is imminent

„ ELIZABETH FRIAS

THE clock is ticking for some 5,000 local families whose kids rely on the Police Citizens Youth Club for safe and sound youth activities all year round.

By the end of April this year, PCYC Parramatta’s rented $58,000 per month premises on 108 George Street is closing down.

“We have nowhere to go at this stage,” PCYC board member Frances Balana said.

“We’ve had a series of meetings with upset parents and their children, coaches, Parramatta MP Donna Davies and current Councillors including former mayor Bob Dwyer to help us find a longterm option.”

Mrs Balana spent many out of school activities at Parramatta PCYC where her father, James David was a volunteer Olympic weightlifting coach and later awarded the recognition as a Life Governor.

The PCYC Parramatta

formed more than 60 years ago offering after-school and holiday activities such as boxing, martial arts, arts and crafts, gymnastics and fitness, youth leadership program, safe driving classes and other recreational pursuits youths enrolled are interested to pursue.

“I’ve laminated membership cards, collected $2 ‘dropin’ fees, painted walls, sizzled sausages, sold raffles, coordinated youth activities, applied for grants, and scavenged for funding,” Mrs Balana said.

“I also on their advisory committee since 2008, and as a Youth Representative, and now as a mother serving in the committees.”

Mrs Balana said they were presented with several options but due to the critical time element given them, the possibilities of the PCYC kids enrolled in a range of activities to miss out completely may ensue.

Attending the PCYC clubs in Blacktown, Fairfield and Auburn were offered by the PCYC headquarters as a temporary

solution but most parents said they would rather keep the children nearby.

“We’re not just a youth club because we have a long-standing active collaboration with the local police command and being a multicultural youth club, we’re raising positive citizens at all levels,” Mrs Balana said.

“The closure of the Parramatta PCYC is more than

a financial issue for us, for it deeply affects the lives of young people and their families who rely on our club’s presence.”

The club’s original building in 12 Hassall Street was sold for $31M in 2015 but despite efforts, not a suitable and affordable replacement property has been found since then, Mrs Balana said.

Mrs Balana said their orig-

inal building was purchased by Toplace Group, a bankrupt real estate development and construction company owned by disgraced developer Jean Nassif.

PCYC chief executive officer Ben Hobby has issued a statement saying: “PCYC NSW continues to engage with State and Federal Government leaders for the support required to establish a new permanent location in Parramatta.

“PCYC is resolute in its commitment to providing a fully functioning community hub in Parramatta for the longterm benefit of all residents, especially youth. PCYC will work with the existing Club Committee structure, as part of this ongoing exploration.”

The NSW Police youth command superintendent Sam Crisafulli is also understood to be in discussion with the Department of Education, Parramatta City Council and the Department of Defence to determine what existing facilities may be utilised by PCYC Parramatta.

Visiting the boxing ring at PCYC Parramatta are Frances Balana with volunteer Khushboo Mathur and Parramatta councillors Sameer Pandey and Donna Wang. Picture supplied.

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NEW PARRAMATTA RIVER CLASS FERRY

Sea trials start on the Derwent

THE first ferry in the new Parramatta River Class fleet has been named, with Transport for NSW revealing the Frances Bodkin is commencing builder sea trials in Tasmania.

Sea trials will test the vessel in open water with the weight of a standard load of passengers, assessing her operational performance before she sets sail for Sydney Harbour in the coming weeks.

Crew from Sydney Ferries will be on hand as the Frances Bodkin is put through her paces on Hobart’s Derwent River.

The seven new vessels in the Australian-made fleet have all been named in honour of Australians who have made significant achievements in the fields of science, environment, and innovation.

Australian botanist, educator and D’harawal Elder Frances Bodkin has dedicated much of her life to studying the natural environment, and sharing Indigenous culture and knowledge through her publications and work in education.

While Frances Bodkin is undergoing testing, another ferry is commencing the final stages of the build process now and is due to commence sea trials in May.

The Northern Beaches-designed vessels have a 200-person capacity and will predominantly run on the F3 Parramatta River route, between Parramatta and Circular Quay.

The vessels are also future-proofed for conversion to electric propulsion when the technology and network infrastructure are ready.

About Frances Bodkin

Frances Bodkin is a D’harawal Elder of the Bidiagal Clan. She is a botanist, scientist and educator who has dedicated much of her life to sharing and preserving Indigenous knowledge of the natural environment through her engagement with children, local communities, and her work with educational and scientific organisations.

Growing up in inner Sydney during the 1940s, Bodkin’s understanding of the natural world came largely through the ancestral knowledge passed down to her by her D’harawal mother, while her father’s passion for science sparked her interest in biology and basic physics from an early age.

Bodkin is the author of several books including Encyclopaedia Botanica which documents more than 11,000 native Australian plants, and D’harawal Seasons and Climatic Cycles.

Dharawal Pharmacopeia is her catalogue of the medicinal properties of native plants found in Dharawal Country.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said: “It’s exciting to see the first ferry in our new Parramatta River Class fleet enter the water for testing, bringing it one step closer to operation.”

“This state-of-the-art fleet is Australian-designed and Australian-made and we’re looking forward to seeing them come into service this year.”

“This new ferry fleet will move passengers from the Quay to Parramatta’s new Powerhouse precinct, so it’s fitting

that their names will pay tribute to trailblazers in science and innovation.”

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs & Treaty David Harris said: “Naming Sydney’s iconic ferries is a great opportunity to put the spotlight on some incredible Australians who have made an important contribution to our nation.”

“Frances Bodkin is an accomplished scientist, a prolific author and a valued D’harawal knowledge holder, and it will be fantastic to see her work recognised as her namesake sails the harbour for years to come.”

The new Parramatta River Class Ferry.

Reducing wait times in EDs

LAST week marked the inaugural meeting of NSW’s Emergency Department (ED) Taskforce, uniting clinical experts to address lengthy wait times in the state’s bustling EDs. With over three million attendances annually and rising serious cases, the Taskforce aims to ensure timely, quality care for NSW residents. Priorities include refining care models, optimizing workforce strategies, and reducing avoidable ED visits. The Taskforce, chaired by Dr. Trevor Chan and Professor Matthew Daly, will engage regularly with stakeholders to drive improvements.

Theory about conspiracy theories

MANY individuals embrace conspiracy theories, but a study led by Dr. Mathew Marques from La Trobe University dis-

pels notions of a growing ‘pandemic of misinformation.’ Surveying nearly 500 Australians and New Zealanders over six months, researchers found beliefs remained relatively stable over time.

Participants considered theories ranging from 9/11 to COVID-19, revealing some rare converts and apostates. Despite occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic, belief in microchip-laden vaccines remained low. The study underscores the nuanced nature of conspiracy belief formation, challenging the notion of a rapid descent into conspiratorial thinking.

Doctors back anti-smoking drug

THE Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) backs a new smoking cessation drug, Cytisine, as it awaits approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration. RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins emphasizes its potential impact amid upcoming removals of nicotine replacement therapy options from public schemes. Highlighting Cytisine’s proven efficacy and minimal side effects, she urges support for its scheduling. With concerns over rising nicotine use, especially among youth, Dr Higgins advocates for expanded cessation tools while encouraging individuals to consult their GPs for tailored support in quitting.

Defibrillator access on country trains

REGIONAL passengers now have easier access to potentially life-saving healthcare with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) available on all NSW TrainLink coach services. Following a successful trial, the NSW Labor Government completed the rollout in partnership with St John Ambulance NSW. These devices,

accessible to all without prior training, significantly improve survival chances during emergencies, particularly in remote areas with longer response times. This initiative aims to save lives and offers peace of mind to passengers.

Action to reduce harm from gaming

AS concerns over late-night gaming and its associated harm rise, the NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) has revised Guideline 16 on late-night gaming applications. With a focus on minimizing gaming-related harm, ILGA assesses applications under the Gaming Machines Act 2001. Evidence highlights risks, especially after 2 am. ILGA Chairperson Caroline Lamb emphasises the need for effective measures by venues and ILGA’s authority to impose conditions to mitigate harm.

Railway crossings set for improvement

NSW railway crossings are set for improvements through the Australian Government’s Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund (RLCUF). With a focus on enhancing safety and reducing crashes, the $160 million commitment aims to fund upgrades across regional areas. The NSW Government’s allocation of $28 million will support projects such as retro-reflective boom gates and updated signage. Detailed information on the fund and project guidelines is available on the Department of Infrastructure’s website.

Care and support for a brighter future

love to hear from you.

From Zumba Gold to cinema gold: there’s something on offer for all seniors

LOCAL seniors are invited to enjoy a series of free and low-cost events and activities this month as part of the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival.

The Seniors Festival, themed “Reach Beyond,” will celebrate the valuable contributions of local seniors aged 60 and over with a variety of activities including Pulitzer Prize winning show Wit and seven cinema screenings at Riverside Theatres, plus a range of live shows, exercise classes, tours and much more at Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC), Parramatta Library and PHIVE.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said Council is committed to supporting seniors in remaining active and engaged in their later years.

“Our seniors are important members of our community who have contributed to our area for many years, and this is a chance to give something back,” Cr Esber said.

“We know how important it is for our seniors to be able to access as many activities as possible in their local community so that they remain active and connected with others.

“I encourage locals to check out

what’s on offer and take the chance to catch up with old friends or connect with new ones.”

The festival’s lineup includes the screenings of Bob Marley: One Love, A Star is Born, My Favourite Things: Rodgers and Hammerstein 80th Anniversary concert, The Mavis Bramston Show and Oscar Nominated Short Films at Riverside Theatres.

Parramatta Aquatic Centre is offering a free PAC ‘Walk the Ring’ Facility Tour, as well as free exercise sessions including Gentle Aqua, ‘Keep Watch’ Water Safety and Drowning Prevention sessions and a

range of gentle exercise sessions.

At PHIVE and Parramatta Libraries, indulge in Zumba Gold and Sound healing using singing bowl therapy for relaxation and self-care, alongside classes tailored to assist local seniors with everyday life, including Explore Ageing and Brain Health, managing digital assets, and a range of tech-savvy sessions in different languages.

For a full list of free and discounted activities available for local seniors during the 2024 festival, please visit Seniors Festival 2024 | City of Parramatta (nsw.gov.au)

ABOUT NSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

The festival celebrates the role and contributions of older adults to our local communities. It’s the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere, with over 500,000 people attending each year. The NSW Seniors Festival will run from 11-24 March 2024.

2024 festival shaping up

THE 2024 NSW Seniors Festival is shaping up to be bigger and better, with the theme ‘Reach Beyond’.

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said the NSW Seniors Festival is the biggest gathering for seniors in the state and provides an opportunity for older Australians to celebrate and connect.

“The NSW Government is looking forward to delivering a festival that embraces everybody and recognises the important contributions seniors play in our community,” Minister Harrison said.

“We want to see NSW seniors taking advantage of the many activities, that include the popular signature events – the Premier’s Gala Concerts and Expo.

“The NSW Seniors Festival is a great time for older Australians to ‘reach beyond’, to seek out new experiences and make new friends by participating in the festivities.”

Next year’s NSW Seniors Festival will run from 11-24 March 2024, with the Expo and Gala concerts taking place between 13-14 March. Each year the festival provides a full program of events and entertainment, with a huge variety of exciting activities across the state.

Discounted early bird applications for prospective Seniors Festival Expo

stallholders are now open and will run until 22 September 2023. Prospective Seniors Festival Expo exhibitors can visit, https://seniorsfestival.info/be-exhibitor.

The Premier’s Gala Concerts will be live-streamed so people can watch no matter where they are. Further details on the Premier’s Gala Concerts will be announced later this year.

Carevan Blacktown is a non-remunerated local charity operating in the Blacktown LGA since 2011, serving the community’s most socially and financially vulnerable, without question, criteria, or cost. Run by a group of dedicated volunteers, Carevan Blacktown provides a welcoming weekly meal and food support service at the Lalor Park community hall every Tuesday night. We create a welcoming environment for all to attend, facilitating a connection between a benevolent community and an ever-growing number of people experiencing poverty, loneliness and other social challenges, people most in need of this kindness and care. Visit us at exhibitor space C13 in the diamond Room.

www.carevanblacktown.org.au

Senior’s Living

Introducing Macarthur Memorial Park

SYDNEY will welcome an exceptional memorial park catering for our diversity of faiths and beliefs opening in March 2025.

Macarthur Memorial Park is an innovative, sustainable parkland destination, designed to honour life, culture and community for generations to come.

MorethanaMemorialPark,thisstunning spaceembraceseveryoneinthecommunity.

Visitors will enjoy the scenic beauty of the landscape, a world class Reflective Sculpture Walk, native gardens and forests, water features, boardwalks, cafes and living chapels.

A further feature is the fully restored heritage homestead buildings, stables and vineyard. Spanning an impressive 113 hectares, this visionary parkland destination secures Sydney’s memorial space for all generations to come.

Discover this world-first memorial park today.

For further details, contact us at 1300 086 689 or info@mmpark.com.au. visit www.mmpark. com.au to explore the possibilities

Time to downsize or rightsize

„ CRAIG ROBINSON

AS a former financial planner, real estate agent and auctioneer, I established my business, Time to Downsize, to help Sydney residents.

Working with a range of clients, from people in their 50s right through to people in their 90s, I act as a guide helping you or your loved one establish a downsizing or rightsizing plan aligned with your individual needs.

As a downsizing consultant, I help clients plan their living and lifestyle arrangements for their later years, mapping out key milestones.

I make it my responsibility to stay educated and informed on government or legislative changes.

Importantly, my relationships with local developers and retirement villages put my clients in the best position for early access and priority placements.

Former clients praise my patience, unwavering enthusiasm, strong communication skills and down-to-earth attitude.

My sense of humour can help diffuse difficult discussions and my objective is always to lighten the load.

If you or your loved one has reached the Time to Downsize, please get in touch.

You can leave me a message at any time on 0433 517 660 or craig@timetodownsize.com. au. I’ll be back in touch right away. Craig Robinson is a downsizing consultant at www.timetodownsize.com.au

Do you live with excessive clutter?

INSIDE Out Recovery is a specialist service that supports people living in extremely cluttered environments. Their aim is to help restore the functionality, health and safety of a home through therapy based and a capacity building researched based support that can include:

• Counselling.

• Psychosocial Declutter Coaching.

Most Outstanding Addiction Behaviour Counsellor in Australia in the NSW Enablement Awards in 2022 and 2023.

Deb also won The Most Outstanding Addiction Behaviour Counsellor in the World in the Global Enablement Awards in November 2022

If you would like more information, or a confidential chat, please do not hesitate to give us a call on 0499 326

At FlexiHome Care, our goal is simple

– we want our participants to be independent for as long as possible. We strive to get to know our participants and provide services that enable them to unleash their potential while making them feel comfortable with the support we provide.

SYDWEST

Innovation Insights (II)

The Success Channel

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.

Innovation Insights

Innovation Insights

About our resenter

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.

– stablish xpertise

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 runner-up, Suzy’s career has evolved in tandem with the ever-changing media landscape

Innovation Insights

$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.

MAGAZINE

2024 VIRTUAL PROPERTY EXPO IS COMING

All

things property ONLINE

TIME is our most valuable commodity and in our busy lives virtual EXPOS emerge as a game changer offering unique benefits for exhibitors and visitors alike.

The virtual expo format has been around for years but is only now making an impact in the business world.

Online marketplaces have become increasingly popular among Australian consumers in recent years, offering a wide range of goods and convenience.

More than 80 per cent of Australians shop and source goods and services online and 3 out every 4 Australians spend an average of 4 – 5 hours per week online shopping and searching. That includes men and women.

he Virtual Property EXPO (VPE) run by WEXPO is the first of its kind in Australia and is being managed in part-

nership with The Disrupter Virtual EXPO.

Scheduled for March 27 and 29, the VPE is designed to showcase property businesses to thousands of potential clients. Businesses like real estate agents, lenders, consultants, and many more will host their virtual exhibitor space.

What’s a virtual exhibitor space?

A virtual exhibiter space or stall is a digital replica of a real physical exhibitor space at an expo that you might drive to and walk around exhibitor halls.

Virtual exhibitors can upload brochures, a video, business logos, contact details, set appointments, list social channels and more – much like a physical stall. The expo organiser will assist in building your virtual exhibitor space.

In the digital expo environment visitors use their computer mouse to do the walking. You get a drone view of 22 stalls in each virtual hall and can click on the one you want to visit.

Upon signing in, visitors receive a virtual briefcase which they can use to download information from stalls and upload later to their computer for viewing in their own time.

Stall holders receive a notification on their phone every time someone visits their stall and after the event each exhibitor receives a spreadsheet with contact details of every visitor to their stall – ideal for follow-up.

Exhibiting at the VPE puts your business face to face with potential clients who are seeking convenient access to information about all things property.

Exhibitors can also network virtually with other exhibitors. Confirmed exhibitors at the 2024 VPE include real estate agents, property consultants, boutique builders, data experts and more.

A comprehensive social media and email marketing campaign commence from March 1st to promote the event.

Two speakers have been confirmed the VPE, and these are:

Kahla Gerard: Common mistakes people make when investing in property and how to avoid them.

Kahla is director of Visionworks Property Consultants. With training in financial planning and lending and a family background in development Kahla provides a road map for investing in property including understanding the three grades

of residential property, real value of location, importance of goal setting and the things to do before investing in property.

Joseph Rossi: Techniques to using data to make good property buying decisions.

Joseph is National Sales & GTM Director of the National property Group. He has over 25 years’ experience in the real estate industry around property data systems refining products and their uses within the real estate, finance, and investor industries. Joe provides insights to using data for making property buying decisions; around valuations, accessing the best data and applications for mum and dad investors.

Kahla Gerard - 2pm March 27 |

Joseph Rossi - 11am March 28

REGISTER FREE at www.wexpo.com.au

To exhibit contact us here: events@wexpo.com.au

Joe Rossi. Kahla Gerard.

New State-of-the-Art Neighbourhood Health Hub

Healthicare is a new health service located at the Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology hub (BEST) that aims to help people in Western Sydney. It is supported by WentWest in partnership with the Mt Druitt Medical Practitioners Association

Healthicare uses a new way of working together called a “neighbourhood-based model of care”. This means that GPs and other health professionals work together to provide better care for people who need it most. This includes people who are very unwell and have many health problems.

What services are available?

In addition to general GP services, Healthicare provides patient-activated services to help you navigate problems with your health from a new perspective and empower you to improve your wellbeing.

These services include:

• Minor injury management and referral to radiology and allied health

• Referrals to service providers and social services such as housing, welfare, employment services, addiction support and domestic violence support

• Shared antenatal care with Westmead and Blacktown Public Hospitals

• In-house podiatry

• Psychologist support

• Childhood, adult, and travel vaccinations

• Skin checks

• Comprehensive chronic health management

• Exercise plans and nutritional guidance

• Diabetes education

• Minor surgery

• Clinical pharmacist in-house medication reviews and education

• On-site pathology

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

Healthicare’s core team consists of:

GPS

PRACTICE NURSES

PRACTICE SUPPORT TEAM

SOCIAL WORKERS

Who

• Adults, children and families who require health care services

• Community members who don’t have a regular GP

• Neighbouring GPs who may wish to refer their patients

All eligible services at Healthicare are bulk-billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. How

Call 1800 828 828 (free call) or visit healthicare.org.au to book an appointment. No referral is required. Healthicare is open Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm.

For more information visit healthicare.org.au

POWERFUL HYBRID ARTURA SPIDER JOINS

McLaren range, Coupe variants

„ MATT BROGAN

MCLAREN has revealed its Artura Spider this week, the model joining the three-year-old Coupe in the British supercar marque’s range.

McLaren’s first hybridised convertible packs an additional 15kW – for a total of 515kW and 720Nm – matching the Coupe’s uprated 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and electric motor combination in being capable of accelerating to 100km/h in just 3.0 seconds.

McLaren says the model can accelerate from standstill to 200km/h in 8.4 seconds and 0-300km/h in an astonishing 21.6 seconds.

Existing MY24 owners will be offered the 15kW uptick in power at no extra cost.

As a challenger to the likes of the now-defunct Ferrari F8 Spider and the Lamborghini Huracan Evo, the 1560kg Artura Spider boasts an electronically limited top speed of 330km/h and a class-leading pow er-to-weight ratio of 353kW per tonne.

Joining the power increase the Artura range includes a newly revised eightspeed SSG trans mission (with shift speeds now 25 per cent faster), updated driveline mounts, faster acting dampers, newly styled alloy wheels, and a re-engineered exhaust system.

It also boasts a stronger carbon-ce ramic braking system with improved cooling, an increased electric-only driving range of 33km (+3km), and an “extended palette of exterior colours”.

at speeds up to 50km/h. Optionally, the roof is available with the electrochromic panel.

Inside the cabin, the Artura range now includes Clubsport seats, an inductive mobile phone charging pad while the Spider scores a Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system.

Safety equipment includes a lengthy inventory of driver assistance technologies, with lane-departure warning and traffic sign recognition joining those features offered previously.

Further, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are now available optionally.

“The new Artura is absolutely the complete next-generation supercar, whichever model you choose,” said McLaren Automotive CEO Michael Leiters.

“We have upgraded the powertrain

improvements, and brings another dimension of open-air McLaren supercar exhilaration to our range.”

McLaren says the Artura Spider’s single-piece retractable roof may be deployed in as little as 11 seconds and

The 2025 McLaren Artura Coupe and Spider are due in Australian showrooms in the third quarter of this year. Pricing is listed below.

with Emma Wilson

TRAVENGERS - EXPLORE THE WORLD Travel for 15-35 year olds

AGNES knows how much young people love to connect, have a good time and travel, despite any hidden disability they may have so she founded group travel company, ‘Travengers’.

Travengers is for 15- to 35-year-olds who want to get out and explore the world. “They see other young people sightseeing and having a good time and they want to do it as well. Travengers is like Contiki but with support”, Agnes says.

So far Travengers has 36 trips under its belt, including New Zealand, Japan, Europe, New York, London, Paris and Florida.

Trips are well-thought out and include a meet and greet zoom call pre-trip to iron out any pre-trip issues and nerves. “We have support guides specialising in PTSD and anxiety, we sort out who needs a single room and who needs someone to share a room with, who needs more space in the transport”. This is the future of accessible travel and what a wonderful gift to young travellers. Get in touch at www. travengers.com.au to find out more.

Rooftop Bars of Sydney

What an incredible city to enjoy the weather. Have a staycation this March and visit some of the city’s fun rooftop bars.

Cabana Bar

Part of the 25 Martin Place precinct, the Cabana Bar feels like a holiday in Bali and is the perfect place for a margarita on a Saturday or a pre-theatre dinner. With it’s green hanging baskets and wicker nooks and crannies it’s a great spot for a fun date. Every Saturday Cabana bar has a bottomless brunch at 11.45am and 2pm for 2 hours. $89 includes

a 2-hour seating with margaritas, spritzes, selters, mimosas and a shared style menu.

The Astor, Intercontinental, 117 Macquarie St

A stylish bar open from 4pm to midnight with a minimum $60 spend. The perfect spot to look out over the cityscape on a special occasion.

Dean and Nancy’s, Level 22, 2 Hunter St Sydney

With a very 1950s New york feel, this bar is a great choice when it’s cool outside. If you love the sound of the piano playing as you sip on a wine, come Thursday nights 5 -8pm. For DJ beats come Thursday to Sturday from 9pm. The location is next to some significant construction happening in the CBD, so finding the entry is part of the fun.

with Emma Wilson

IT’S time to start thinking about your snow travel because accommodation, in particular, gets booked up in advance. Snow travel is not a last minute thing because there are many moving parts that can make or break a trip. This snow travel section will be your monthly go-to so watch this space, it will have tips on snow play, driving in snow conditions and buying and hiring gear. If you have a question you’d like answered please email travelwellwithemma@gmail.com. In the meantime check out the accompanying Snow Holiday Master Planner’ graphic and start planning your attack. Perisher

SNOW TRAVEL 2024 Start planning NOW

and Thredbo are NOT the only resorts for skiing, snowboarding and snow play and in next month’s travel column I will delve into these more cost-effective and beginner- friendly alternatives.

Snow Action Magazine

Head to www.snowaction.com.au for snow updates, amazing competitions, features on overseas and Australian resorts, tips on travelling to Japan and Canada and more.

Warren Miller Ski Movie

Every year the famous USA ski film tours Australia and New Zealand from

May. For tour dates and locations head to www.warrenmiller.com.au

“Warren Miller’s ALL TIME is bringing 74 years of filmmaking reimagined to a theatre near you this May. And this season, it’s all about good turns and good snow on good hills with good people. Narrated by Jonny Moseley, ALL TIME dives deep into elements that Warren himself first identified as the stuff of which snowy dreams are made”.

Snow podcast

If you love listening on-the-go as you fold laundry, drive or you’re out in the garden check out Loving the Snowlife

on iTunes or Spotify. It’s a podcast that helps families get ready for their next snowtrip, where to go and what to do when you get there.

I am co-host and co-founder and over 4 years our podcast topics include: Solo travel, first time snow holiday DO’s and DON’Ts, kids snow holiday logistics, how to choose a season pass, weather forecasting, skincare and makeup at the snow, getting your body ready to stay injury-free, plus size snow clothing, travelling with babies and toddlers, sustainable ski brands and more. Head to Spotify or iTunes and search ‘Loving the Snowlife’ to download episodes.

Fitness benefits of gardening

IN a world where modern conveniences often lead to sedentary lifestyles, finding enjoyable ways to stay active is paramount for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Gardening, often seen as a leisurely pastime, offers a multitude of fitness benefits that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

time in green spaces can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being.

Whether planting flowers, cultivating vegetables, or simply enjoying the beauty of a well-maintained garden, individuals can experience a sense of tranquility and inner peace while

PARRAMATTA’S GRAND PROMENADE First look at concept plans

PLANS for the next stage of an iconic pedestrian boulevard set to run from Parramatta’s CBD to the River will go on exhibition from early March.

The $21M Civic Link project runs north-south along Horwood Place from George Street to Phillip Street connecting Parramatta Square (Block 1) and the public spaces proposed within the Sydney MetroWest project (Block 2) to the south and Powerhouse Parramatta (Block 4) to the north.

Designs for the city-shaping project include a green spine of new trees and garden planting offering shade and

pockets of nature to explore, a ribbon of mixed-use seating and activations for opportunities to meet, engage and play, widening the existing pedestrian footpaths to create boulevards and establishing accessible east-west bridges across the gardens to create immersive green spaces.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said Civic Link will transform the heart of Parramatta.

“This is part of our long-held vision for Civic Link, providing a vibrant spine that connects our community to transport networks and cycleways between Parramatta Square in our CBD

and Powerhouse Museum by the river,” Cr Esber said.

“Our public spaces offer workers, visitors and residents a social place to gather together, celebrate culture and enjoy nature.

“We’ve seen this with the 365,000 visitors at Parramatta Square each month and its potential as a social precinct, activation and event space and destination to explore.”

Parramatta’s deep connection to the river is also reflected in the concept design with proposals to direct and harvest local run-off to treatment areas integrated into the gardens to improve

water quality and stormwater management.

A rollout of innovative infrastructure with integrated lighting, CCTV, environmental sensors, dynamic signage, public WIFI and recharge points will be installed to keep the community safe.

Following the public exhibition, further community consultation will be undertaken before the design is finalised.

This project received $10.5M in funding from the NSW Government as part of the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund and is expected to be completed in 2026.

Artist impressions of the new prominarde.

puzzles

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Follow (7)

5 Tiny fish (7)

9 Social exclusion (9)

10 Doesn’t pass (5)

11 Gradually (6)

12 Categorise (8)

14 Put in (6)

15 Devoted followers (4)

19 Gem (4)

20 Patch of water (6)

24 Leaping (8)

25 Self-absorption (6)

27 Prohibited (5)

28 Made clear (9)

29 Ingredient (7)

30 Ratify (7)

DOWN

1 Partner (6)

2 Natural fibre used in clothing (6)

3 Allowing (8)

4 Platform (4)

5 Likeness (10)

6 Deny (6)

7 Hostile (8)

8 Author of short pieces (8)

13 Defendant (10)

16 Small warship (8)

17 Worth a lot of money (8)

No. 039

QUIZ

1 Who is the presumed author of the Iliad and the Odyssey?

2 The Indian Pacific train journey goes through which three Australian cities?

3 True or false: all worker bees are male?

4x4

18 Lazy person (8)

21 Blow (6)

22 Victor (6)

23 Soil (6)

26 Vaulted recess (4)

4 Who released the 2020 album Batflowers?

5 Rafael, Xiomara and Petra are characters on which US drama/comedy?

6 How many wives did Henry VIII have?

7 And how many were called Catherine?

8 In what year was The Sims 4 released?

9 Which university did Victorian premier Daniel Andrews (pictured) attend?

Which university did former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews (pictured) attend?

10 On what date did Queensland become the first Australian state to ban conversion therapy?

ACROSS

1 Crust of blood (4)

5 Infinitesimal amount (4)

6 Hebrew prophet (4)

7 Representations of an area (4)

DOWN

1 Former name of Thailand (4)

2 Extended unconsciousness (4)

3 At the top (4)

4 Low pitch (4)

WORD FIND

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

No. 039

Secret message:

puzzles

3

WORD FILL

ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

ACROSS

4

2 Kids’ series about a girl and her successful web show (6)

4 Studio behind classics like The Little Mermaid and Cinderella (6)

8 Actor who plays president Bartlet in The West Wing (6,5)

9 Thespian (5)

26 Animated penguin (5)

27 Macaulay Culkin’s family classic, Home – (5)

28 4-across’ Hamlet adaptation (3,4,4)

29 Law & Order: SVU detective Olivia – (6)

30 Lead in Grey’s Anatomy, Ellen – (pictured) (6)

No. 048

15 Clark Kent’s alter ego (8)

17 Directed the 2019 film Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, Quentin – (9)

19 Eighties heartthrob known for Parks and Recreation and The Outsiders (3,4)

20 2015 comedy starring Amy Poehler and Tina Fey (7)

22 American playwright, Preston – (7)

23 Actor who plays the ringmaster in Dumbo, Danny – (6)

25 Late Star Trek film actor, – Yelchin (5)

HIDDEN WORD

DOWN

10 Acting sisters Elizabeth, Mary-Kate and Ashley (5)

11 Cold country in which Trapped is set (6)

12 – Bonham Carter played Queen Elizabeth in The King’s Speech (6)

14 French actor who played Philippe in The Intouchables, François – (6)

CROSS MATH 5x5

15 — Osbourne, panelist on The Talk (6)

16 Animated series, –: The Last Airbender (6)

18 Game show, Catch– (6)

21 Ricky Gervais comedy series (6)

24 Setting for Frasier (7)

No. 015

1 English actor who plays Chief Worth in Tin Star (3,4)

2 Star of Luther and The Wire (5,4)

3 Ygritte in Game of Thrones, Rose – (6)

4 Sarah Rafferty’s character in Suits, – Paulsen (5)

No. 014

5 Kerry Washington plays a fixer in this (7)

6 8-across’ birth name, Ramón – (7)

7 Criminal Minds and Grandfathered actress, Paget – (8)

13 Alison Brie in Community (5)

14 Quiz show, The – (5)

1 Edge of a pizza

2 Late mum of William and Harry

3 Impoverished

4 Small broken piece of cookie

5 Mistake

6 Thing to sit on

7 Save for a — day

8 Stadium

Ki RSte N Du NSt

1. In which year was Dunst born?

A. 1979

B. 1982

C. 1985

D. 1988

2. Which film made her a childhood star?

A. The Piano

B. Romeo + Juliet

C. Cool Runnings

D. Interview with the Vampire

3. How many Sofia Coppoladirected movies has she starred in?

A. Three

B. Two

C. None

D. Four

4. Dunst starred in a music video for which Aussie band?

A. Savage Garden

B. Powderfinger

C. Jet

D. None of the above

FRIDAY 31st MAY 2024

Blacktown Workers Club

An unforgettable night of live entertainment, auctions & a three-course meal.

Scan code for tickets & sponsorship packages.

Raising vital funds to support Blacktown & Mount Druitt Hospitals.

the largest stadium in the world?

6. Lewis Hamilton recently made a bombshell announcement that he was departing Mercedes and moving to which team?

In which year did Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson first retire from the WWE?

In which year were full-body swimsuits banned from competition, due to providing an unfair advantage?

The film

The Iron Claw tells the tragic true story of which wrestling family?

Which American state are the Kansas City Chiefs based in?

Australian Molly Picklum compete in?

14. Ex-supercars team owner Roland Dane said which team had a 'toxic workplace', resulting in Brodie Kostecki's request to leave?

15. Which retired cricketer has agreed to coach America’s Major League Cricket franchise the Washington Freedom?

16. Which team has won the most A-League Men’s Championship titles?

17. Teams based in which New Zealand and Australian cities will join the A-League Men’s competition in 2024-25?

18. 1960 marked the only year Australia had a team qualify for what event at the Winter Olympic Games?

19. The Brisbane Bandits and Adelaide Giants are teams in what Australian sporting league?

20. Which retired Australian swimmer has said he will come out of retirement for the proposed upcoming Enhanced Games?

21. How many AFL teams will be taking part in the season’s Opening Round?

22. The Perth Wildcats hold the record with how many NBL titles?

23. Which team are the reigning champions in the NHL?

24. WWE wrestler Dakota Kai is from which country?

25. The Australian U19 Men’s cricket team have won the World Cup how many times?

26. The Emeralds play what sport for Australia?

27. How many NFL teams have never made it to the Super Bowl?

28. Which sport is the oldest at the Winter Olympics?

29. Who is current captain of the Fremantle Dockers?

30. VAR in soccer stands for what?

Dwayne Johnson