Parramatta Times - April 2022 by Community Broadcast Network (CBN)

ISSUE 21 | APRIL 2022

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

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ParramattA T I M E S

FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Man on a mission to build kids' self esteem: former Eels star, David Gower.

Former Eel building self-esteem of kids

HEN Parramatta star David Gower was balancing his NRL career with life as a father of three, he came to realise that some children needed a help in life as they suffered a significant decline in self-esteem as they progressed through their school years. It started him thinking about a project to assist young people with good mental health. "I had a 10-year career and by the end of it, I'd seen a lot of teammates struggle with mental health and wellbeing," he told Wide World of Sports. More page 5.

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

NEARING THE END OF THE CYCLE

Record levels of office tenancy ARRAMATTA received record levels of office tenant activity in 2021, softening the increase in vacancies as large levels of new supply come online. Positive net absorption of 68,000 sqm was recorded in the December quarter by JLL, the strongest quarterly result since the firm began tracking the market in 1990, driven by strong pre-commitment levels within new completions as well as strong activity within the small tenant market. Net absorption is tipped to moderate in 2022 but will remain positive. Parramatta’s headline vacancy rate fell to 0.8 percentage points to 12.1% over the three-month period, and prime grade vacancy rate come down from a peak of 21.8% in June to 14.0%. JLL’s office leasing Parramatta senior director, Stephen Panagiotopoulos said financial services, insurance, and SME tenants had led the immense growth in the number of private sector businesses taking up space in Parramatta, driven by the recent multi-billion-dollar infrastructure and amenity boom, while the federal government has also been a major factor. “With projects such as Parramatta Square, Powerhouse Museum, Metro West and Light Rail lines all under construction, these projects have drawn large scale businesses across infrastructure, engineering, and development to the precinct,

Parramatta CBD.

with smaller businesses following in their footsteps,” he said. It will this year become Australia’s first non-CBD market to reach one million sqm of total stock. Just over 250,000 sqm of office space has completed in the market over the five years to 2021, reflective of 38% growth and making it the fastest growing market out of 19 tracked by JLL Research. Scentre Group received state government approval for its $500 million proposal to build a 105,000 sqm office tower above Westfield Parramatta last year, while the NSW government also committed to

overhauling planning controls for Parramatta’s CBD, hoping to create 50,000 new jobs and two million sqm of new commercial space in the process.

Two assets under construction JLL’s office leasing Parramatta senior director, Ben Lalic said Parramatta is near the end of the current development cycle, with only two assets under construction totalling 60,000 sqm of stock. “With such high current net absorption levels, businesses need to look to secure space in the next 10 months or will have to wait two or three years for future

quality stock to come online, otherwise take up existing older refurbished A-grade stock,” Lalic said. The next completion in the Parramatta office market will be 50,000 sqm at 8 Parramatta Square, part of Walker Corporation’s $3.2B development. Westpac has committed to 20,000 sqm, while Deloitte recently signed up for a 10-year lease there and Link Market Services will also be moving in. Another 10,000 sqm will be completed in the September quarter at 85 Macquarie Street, where the Commonwealth Bank pre-committed to 2,000 sqm, while half of Charter Hall’s 6 Hassall Street will be -occupied by Western Sydney University. Major leasing deals have included the Department of Home Affairs at the nine floor, A-grade 101 George Street, consolidating three existing Home Affairs office buildings in Parramatta and Sydney's CBD into one site. Complete Credit Solutions and Workspace 365 each took whole floors of 1,323 sqm at 60 Station Street, known as the Eclipse Tower, while JLL itself has just relocated its western Sydney office to 1,000 sqm of prime-grade office space at GPT’s recently completed 32 Smith development. City of Parramatta Council paid $64M in September for an office building on Wentworth Street that will become its administrative headquarters from 2023.

Stars soar to dance for cancer TARS of Western Sydney held their first event on 26 March 26 at Wenty Leagues with all funds raised going towards Cancer Council NSW. With a goal of $100,000 to be raised, the event achieved an outstanding total of $119, 275 to go towards cancer research, support, and programs. This was an extension of the highly successful Stars of Parramatta event held in 2018 and 2019, bringing together our community from all areas of Blacktown, Parramatta and surrounding suburbs for an evening of entertainment, laughter and fundraising support. The event consisted of 10 pairs of community leaders (stars) and their dance teachers to perform on the evening after weeks of training and fundraising. Community Relations Coordinator Danielle Sammut said “We were so proud and grateful to have raised such a great

Western Sydney for November 2022. If anyone is interested in nominating a star, please contact danielle. sammut@nswcc.org.au

About Cancer Council

This year's dancers.

amount of money as a collective. These stars and dance teachers work so hard donating their time and the stars have raised so much money prior to the event. It’s absolutely amazing!”

There was feedback on the night from stars saying this was an amazing experience they were so proud to be involved in. There are plans to do another Stars of

Cancer Council is Australia’s leading cancer charity working across every aspect of every cancer. Every day, we support families affected by cancer when they need it most, speak out on behalf of the community on cancer issues, empower people to reduce their cancer risk, and find new ways to better detect and treat cancer. With your help, we’re getting closer to a cancer free future every minute, every hour, every day.

Memorial to help Parramatta girls heal ORMER residents of the Parramatta Girls Home were acknowledged with the NSW Government opening a memorial for abuse survivors at the site in Western Sydney. Minister for Families and Communities Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the commemorative site seeks to honour the women and girls held at the facility. “Parramatta Girls Home is a reminder of the mistakes of the past and I hope that this memorial can help us learn from those mistakes and acknowledge the pain experienced by so many who lived there,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said. “I want all survivors and their families to know that they are loved and appreciated and this memorial is to express that the

state is truly sorry for what they have been through.” In 2018, the NSW Government officially apologised to victims and survivors of child sexual abuse, including those who suffered acts of exploitation at sites like the Parramatta Girls Home and have had to carry the trauma of those events. The memorial features a remembrance garden and sandstone structures with graffiti found etched on the walls of the building, which aims to express bonds of friendship and solidarity, overlaid with recollections of the ‘Parra Girls’ who once lived at the centre. In partnership with Triggerdesign, the Department of Communities and Justice consulted closely with former residents to

design the memorial and worked with the Department of Planning and Environment to deliver it. Minister for Planning Anthony Roberts said he hoped the conversion of the site to a place of healing would go some way to help acknowledge the struggles of survivors. “This is a significant milestone in our efforts to restore and preserve historic sites within the Parramatta North Precinct, to provide a place for people to heal and for others to learn the important stories of our past,” Mr Roberts said. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ben Franklin said for more than a century Aboriginal women and girls were taken to Parramatta Girls Home and have had

to live through the trauma and cultural disconnection these past policies caused. This memorial is a reminder for those past mistakes to never be repeated. Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee said the memorial is now open to the whole community as an active place of history. “From today this garden and memorial is a place where people will be able to come to learn about our history and the significance of what occurred here,” Mr Lee said. The NSW Government committed to developing the memorial after the Royal Commission into Institutional responses to Child Sexual Abuse investigated abuse that occurred at the former Parramatta Girls Home.

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SUCCESS

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AWARDS

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ISSUE 21 | APRIL 2022 How to get The Times The Parramatta Times is available throughout the Parramatta LGA at 80 strategic locations. To find a location near you visit our website.

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Peek into real excellence  CHIANG LIM T was an absolute joy to see the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards for 2021/2022 held on a beautiful Saturday, March 26, at the Hyatt Regency at Sydney’s Darling Harbour. Not only were two more records broken as the Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA) NSW hosted almost 550 people in attendance as well as a 40.9% increase in the number of nominations received. I believe the fact that we had so many people together in one place after the experiences of the last two years of COVID-19 pandemic must have imbued even greater confidence as we look to our futures while living with COVID. ACA NSW is also extremely proud of the fact that these Awards continues to be open to all 3,357 long daycare services across NSW while being blind to sizes, brands, governance structures and locations. And it certainly will continue to not be limited to ACA NSW members either. This particularly guarantees that the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards remain the biggest and only awards program that is universal and impartial to Approved Providers, educators, teachers and support staff who work so tirelessly at their long daycare services. It may also just be the largest of its kind for the sector across Australia. This also makes the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards the most respected of all by parents and families as they discern between services and draw understandings of the extraordinary offerings of long daycare services for their precious children. What these annual Awards also provide is an opportunity to “peek” into what excellence tangibly looks like among the best of the best services. With an unashamed convergence toward beneficial outcomes for children and their families, all award categories provide every nomination the opportunity to highlight their successes for celebration.

2021/2022 Early Childhood Education Awards.

These Awards also provide inspiration from others to draw from so that all of us can strive even further and higher in our individual and collective aspirations. All finalists and winners of this year’s Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards must be extremely proud of their success and their services. And most importantly, we celebrate the many people who make all our long daycare

services’ successes become realities for the children under their care and for their families. And we won’t even let a global pandemic impede us! Chiang Lim is CEO, Australian Childcare Alliance NSW based at Parramatta. Visit www. nsw. childcarealliance.org.au For the full list of winners see latest edition of Australia Business Access, www.accessnews.com.au

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

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

FORMER EELS STAR BUILDS SELF-ESTEEM

Forging a better future for kids What good are academics if you don't actually feel good about yourself?

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HEN Parramatta star David Gower was balancing his NRL career with life as a father of three, he came to realise that some children needed a help in life as they suffered a significant decline in self-esteem as they progressed through their school years. It started him thinking about a project to assist young people with good mental health. "I had a 10-year career and by the end of it, I'd seen a lot of teammates struggle with mental health and wellbeing," he told Wide World of Sports (WWOS). David said having a young family made him realise that the battle for mental wellbeing needed to start far earlier than adulthood or our teenage years. "Watching athletes at the top of their game struggle with it I thought 'you know what? I'm equally as concerned for my kids' - and what better place to start than with young kids and students," David said. He retired from the NRL in 2020 and quickly turned his attention towards mental health - founding the organisation called Forge Wellbeing, which focuses on the wellbeing of schoolkids. Forge Wellbeing has recently conducted the Weet-Bix Feed Their Belief Report, which found that declining self-esteem is one of the biggest mental wellbeing issues Aussie kids are facing. "If we can embed positive aspects of wellbeing, we have a real opportunity of

David Gower in action for Parramatta.

essentially having a generation of kids who understand the importance of good mental health," David said. He believes that education is trending in the right direction - and that the days of telling kids to have a stiff upper lip and get on with it are behind us. "Everyone always says 'just be more resilient' but what does that even mean? It's a learned skill, resilience and it's made up of positive emotions, self-esteem, positive relationships - you can't just wake up in your late teens and be resilient," he said.

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"The earlier we start empowering our kids, the earlier we're going to have kids that have the skills required to deal with adversity. These are extremely important steps what good are academics if you don't actually feel good about yourself?" David's time at the top - especially at a club like Parramatta where fans are craving success after a long title drought - came with plenty of teammates who he saw first-hand doing it tough. "Everything associated with pressure and expectation. Athletes are no different to anyone else, but there's all these things that are part and parcel of being a professional athlete that you aren't immune from,” he told WWOS. "Gone are the days of 'real men don't cry'. That is an absolutely archaic mentality that society has had for a long time, but I don't think it's still there, it is changing.” That was his reason for starting Forge Wellbeing – and key research certainly backs him up. “Our data provides an unparalleled insight into the wellbeing of Aussie kids. However, it sadly shows that a child’s mindset declines in positivity as they progress through their school years.”

“By sharing these insights in the WeetBix Feed their Belief Report, we’re hoping to help parents and caregivers understand the factors that impact their child’s ability to believe in themselves, feel positive about the world around them and ready to face the challenges life will inevitably throw their way”, he said. The Weet-Bix Feed their Belief Report uncovers the mindset of 27,000 Aussie kids and provides tips to fuel their self-belief from parenting expert Dr. Justin Coulson.

• 1 in 5 students already feel negative about their self-esteem when they enter high school. • 40% of Year 12 students don’t feel optimistic. 10% of all high school students say they don’t feel positive at all. • 80% of teenagers report positive relationships with parents and friends and strong values around social contribution

The Weet-Bix Feed their Belief Report found a significant decline of 35% in self-esteem, optimism, competence and positive emotions between Kindergarten and Year 12. The report explores the current mindset amongst Australian children as they progress through school across eight key wellbeing domains: Positive Emotions, Meaning, Optimism, Positive Relationships, Competence, Engagement, Self-Esteem, and Social Contribution. multiple contexts and demonstrate positive and respectful adult relationships.

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

UGLY DUCKLING NO MORE….

Dream city project for Rosehill  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM DREAM showpiece city will be developed on a former industrial site at Rosehill which has been known as an ‘ugly duckling’ suburb since early last a century. In days gone by, punters went to Rosehill racecourse to bet or nearby factories to work, both chasing dreams of one kind or another. Today, most of the workers have gone, leaving only the punters to give the place a boost on race days and keep the Great Australian Dream of success alive. But all that is about to change with the first steps to transform the industrial heartland into a residential hub on the doorstep of Parramatta’s CBD being taken with submissions closing for the Camellia-Rosehill Place Strategy. It is part of a a 20-year plan to redevelop an under-utilised, complex and toxic site that, nevertheless, has potential. The precinct includes the historically significant Rosehill racetrack. “The NSW government’s Camellia-Rosehill Place Strategy will feature a town centre and thousands of new homes that will be supported by infrastructure and public spaces,” Colliers’ National Director of Industrial Tony Durante said in a media report. “This will be accompanied by a new urban services precinct as well as heavy industrial land that will ensure there is a broad mix of employment opportunities within the precinct.” The place strategy is zoned mixed-use, with an emphasis on urban renewal and the project has been welcomed by civic leaders. Acting director of the Greater Parramatta and Olympic Peninsula Jazmin van Veen told a recent online forum discussing the future of the precinct, there was an opportunity to create an integrated network of green infrastructure and complete the missing link along the Parramatta River which would connect the Parramatta CBD through to Olympic Park. “The place strategy is also looking at improved road accessibility, which will enhance the productivity of both the current industrial uses and encourage employment growth,” she said. Best of all, the self-contained, 300ha precinct is defined by clear borders with the Parramatta River to the north, Duck

Parramatta CBD and right, Tony Durante.

River to the east, the M4 to the south and James Ruse Dve to the west. And the site will be crossed by the Parramatta light rail, which is key to opening up the precinct. The land includes the asbestos-contaminated Viva Energy site, a major hazard facility at the east of the precinct, which requires remediation.

Opening up the precinct The precinct is at the heart of a massive program of infrastructure investment in Western Sydney, accounting for approximately 90% of future transport infrastructure funding that has been allocated by the NSW government to date. The $16.8bn WestConnex road, a 33km underground motorway between Homebush and Kingsgrove, to be completed in 2023, is a crucial piece of infrastructure. If it is approved, the Camellia-Rosehill place strategy makes provision for a thriving town centre and a late-night entertainment precinct next to the existing Rosehill racecourse.

The proposal details new public open spaces, including opening up the Parramatta River foreshore, as well as new schools. There will still be some heavy industrial land use on the site so as not to compromise the precinct's role as an industrial and employment hub. The NSW government estimates renewal of the precinct will create 14,500 jobs and lead to 10,000 new homes being built. The plan takes a holistic approach to addressing the contamination of the Viva Energy site, and addresses the potential for land use conflict between industrial and residential uses. The Camellia-Rosehill site has numerous restrictions with which developers will have to grapple. For example, a significant volume of heavy vehicle traffic uses the precinct, but access is constrained by just two roads. Potential flooding is another problem that will have to be considered. Colliers’ Tony Durante said it was a mistake to underestimate the scale of what’s required for access.

“The largest barrier facing rezoning is that land that was formally zoned for heavy industrial purposes will require suitable remediation to qualify for an alternative and rezoning.” He said transport was the main planning constraint, although this was being resolved with improved connections, including light rail and road upgrades scheduled to be incorporated into the development. Sources – Urban Developer, Colliers

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

Digital Government Victor Dominello said the new Digital Vehicle Registration service is a one-stop shop for millions of drivers, offering digital renewal notifications and a Certificate of Registration all in one place.

“Around 16 per cent of registrations are not renewed on time due to paperwork being damaged, misplaced or simply stuck on the fridge and forgotten about,” Mr Dominello said. The service is optional meaning

customers will continue to receive a paper renewal notice unless they opt-in. To opt-in to Digital Vehicle Registration, visit service.nsw.gov.au.

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

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

“NSW Fair Trading Investigators dished out $112,200 in fines and 76 penalty notices in 2021 and 2022 – a huge jump from 22 total penalties in 2020,” Ms Petinos said. In one case a seller shaved off more than 400,000km off a 2012 Subaru XV, reducing the odometer from 470,000km down to

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

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

PARRAMATTA LIGHT RAIL TRACK NEARS COMPLETION

Construction of stops starts ORK will start to build the first of 16 light rail stops and track installation will reach 100 per cent in coming weeks, on Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail. Minister for Transport and Veterans David Elliott said significant progress was being made on the NSW Government’s $2.4 billion light rail project, bringing delivery of the project to the people of Western Sydney a step closer. “It is incredibly exciting to see track installation at 99 per cent across the 12-kilometre alignment, with the final segment of track to be laid imminently,” Mr Elliott said. “About 700 people have worked each day and night for more than one year to lay the tracks for the new light rail network, which will change

how the community travel and connect to places across Greater Parramatta in the future. “The community will start to see the fencing being removed as improvement works such as landscaping, road resurfacing, kerbing and footpath paving is complete. “Today we are unveiling never before seen artist impressions showcasing the carefully designed stops and their features, which have been informed by extensive research, independent design review and prototyping.” Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD, and is expected to commence passenger services next year. For more information about the project, visit parramattalightrail.nsw.gov.au.

Future light rail stop at Fennell Street North Parramatta.

NOTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION OF ABORIGINAL INTERESTS Biosis is undertaking an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment for 51 Huntingwood Drive, Huntingwood, New South Wales, within the Blacktown Local Government Area on behalf of EMKC3: Pawan Lala (0488 587 333, Pawan.Lala@emkc3.com) The project will be assessed as State Significant Development under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. In accordance with the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents 2010 (DECCW 2010). Biosis invites Aboriginal people who hold cultural knowledge in determining the significance of Aboriginal object(s) and/or places in the vicinity of the above area to register their interest in a process of community consultation. The purpose of Aboriginal community consultation is to provide sufficient information for the assessment of Aboriginal cultural heritage values, and to assist the Secretary of the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in their consideration and determination of the application. For more information or to register in writing, please contact Anthea Vella (avella@biosis.com.au, 14/17-27 Power Avenue, Alexandria, 0427 463 834) Please note that the name of each group that registers for consultation on this project will be provided to Heritage NSW, Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Local Aboriginal Land Council unless the group specifies that they do not want their details released. REGISTRATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED TO 5PM, 22 APRIL 2022 REGISTRATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE 5PM, 11 APRIL 2022

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

HISTORIC ADDITION TO PARRAMATTA PARK

Wisteria Gardens now included ARRAMATTA Park will expand with the addition of the adjacent historic two-hectare Wistaria Gardens in a significant win for the new Greater Sydney Parklands Trust (GSP). Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport Rob Stokes said the new Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Act 2021 creates a new, single powerful voice for Sydney’s parklands, which will enable the NSW Government to expand State-owned parks for a growing Greater Sydney. “Sydney’s best parklands will bloom under the leadership of the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust, with the first step being the inclusion of Wistaria Gardens,” Mr Stokes said. “GSP will be tasked with transforming this beautiful, historic garden, with so much potential into a public space that the growing communities around Parramatta will flock to. “The new laws provide our parks stronger protections than ever before and a specialist agency to drive the expansion of new parklands and blue-green grid connections.” Member for Parramatta Dr Geoff Lee has been a strong advocate for the transfer of the Gardens and said it was a significant milestone for the park. “Wistaria Gardens is a remarkable part of the nation’s heritage and one of Sydney’s last surviving large-scale Edwardian Gardens, which will be protected and restored to its former glory for future generations to enjoy,” Dr Lee said.

Parramatta Park.

Wisteria Gardens.

“There is a unique opportunity to improve access to the now 87 hectares of Parramatta Park for North Parramatta residents, and also lease historic Glengarriff House to help maintain both the Park and the building itself. “This is the start of a conversation with the community about how they would like GSP to manage Wistaria Gardens, which is highly valued for its cultural heritage, and as a tranquil haven

on the edge of the bustling Parramatta CBD.” Parramatta Park was established in 1857 and is one of 11 sites that form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The new agency is charged with protecting the environment and cultural heritage of Sydney’s existing parklands that include Centennial Parklands, includ-

ing Queens and Moore Parks, Callan Park, Parramatta Park, Western Sydney Parklands and Fernhill Estate, while also establishing new parklands to realise the NSW Government’s vision for Greater Sydney to become a ‘city within a park.’ GSP will conduct horticultural work in time for spring, before consulting with the community on future plans to restore the Gardens and involve the community in their management.

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Federal Election 2022

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

Good mix of alternative voices Global warming an issue

 DI BARTOK OR voters tired of the two major parties–whether the policies,internal wranglings or candidates not living right in the Parramatta electorate– there are strong alternatives. And it will be Phil Bradley from the Greens, Julian Fayad from the United Australia Party, Liza Tazewell from the Liberal Democrats and Independent Steve Christou who will decide the outcome between Labor and Liberal in a tight election. Though strong candidates, none is likely to win Parramatta, simply because the electorate, conventional in its way, has always stuck to either Labor or Liberal–but in this election, with the dissatisfaction with Federal politics and Scott Morrison and Anthony Albanese, these candidates will do well and their preference deals are crucial. Those deals are still being worked out, but the Greens are likely to favour Labor while the others are likely to be directing voters to Liberal before Labor–so that will be interesting in a seat that is held by Labor by only 3.5 per cent. Phil Bradley, the only Greens councillor on Parramatta Council, has contested the Federal election a few times before, scoring 8 per cent of the vote in the last election. With the growing concern over global warming, he is expecting more people to turn to him and his preferences, if voters follow his direction of course, will be crucial to Labor’s chances. “Global warming becomes a real issue in Parramatta, with our lack of trees and development in the CBD. In the last 50

Phil Bradley.

years, the urban temperature in North Parramatta has risen by 3.5 degrees; in Australia overall, it is 1.5 degrees,” Bradley said.

“Days hotter than 40 degrees are predicted to rise tenfold in our children’s lifetime in Western Sydney.” Bradley is a passionate environmentalist and heritage protector and believes people are moving away from the major parties because they are losing trust in their ability to care for people. “The Greens in NSW always put people before profits and do not accept political donations from any corporations,” he said. Bradley, who has lived in the Parramatta area for 27 years, has been a civil engineer, TAFE teacher and Teachers Federation officer. Liza Tazewell grew up in Guildford, the proud daughter of immigrant parents. A small business owner in Parramatta, Tazewell wants to provide an alternative voice for Parramatta.

“As a small business owner, I saw the devastating impact of the government’s COVID-19 response on hardworking Australians, notably those deemed ‘non-essential’,” Tazewell said. “The collusion of the major parties has dismantled any trust we had in our government–they no longer served the interests of the people.” Julian Fayad, whose parents are from Lebanon, has been living in Guildford all his life. He runs multiple finance and technology businesses in Parramatta that are built around supporting small businesses. In line with his party’s foremost policy that will have traction with many people in the electorate, Fayad is against mandatory vaccinations. “I am pro-informed treatment and I am well-read in scientific journals discussing treatments, early intervention, vaccine efficacy and adverse side effects,” he said. “I am morally and ethically incorruptible and that scares the elite.” The Parramatta Times will feature more detailed profiles of these candidates in our May edition.

Battle for Parramatta is on OW that Prime Minister Scott Morrison has called the Federal election for May 21, the fight for the key seat of Parramatta is hotting up. Held by Labor by 3.5 per cent, it is considered winnable by the Coalition, especially as popular MP Julie Owens is resigning after 18 years. It will be a tough fight between Labor and Liberal, with preferences from the Greens, United Australia Party, Liber-

al Democrats and Independent former Cumberland mayor more crucial than ever. All parties have interesting candidates. Labor is banking on Eastern Suburbs high-flyer Andew Charlton while the Liberals have put up strong, almost-local businesswoman Maria Kovacic. It will be an interesting few weeks. The Times will feature a rundown of all candidates in our May edition

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Federal Election 2022

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

LIBERAL CHOICE IS “TOP NOTCH”

Former Mayor backs Maria  DI BARTOK ORMER Liberal Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer thinks the Liberals have a real chance of winning Parramatta in the upcoming Federal election now that “top-notch” local businesswoman Maria Kovacic has been chosen as the candidate. With Labor’s slim 3.5 percent hold, the Liberals have a real chance of grabbing the prime seat now that popular local member Julie Owens has retired, even if the Coalition does not retain government. And it is all down to the candidate choices of the parties–Labor has chosen Eastern Suburbs businessman Andrew Charlton, much to the chagrin of local party rank and file, while the Liberals have opted for West Pennant Hills business leader Kovacic. Mr Dwyer and other local Liberals had feared that their party would parachute in an outside candidate as Labor has done but are relieved that Kovacic was chosen, even if it was not by a rank and file vote. The choice was made by a selection committee comprising Prime Minister Scott Morrison, NSW Premier Dom Perrottet and

a former president of the federal Liberal Party Christine McDiven. A challenge launched by Liberal Party state executive member Matthew Camenzuli on the validity of the PM committee’s choice over a rank-and-file vote was lost in the NSW Court of Appeal this week, though an appeal has been lodged. Mr Camenzuli’s cousin, structural engineer Charles Camenzuli, was considered the rank-and-file favourite–despite him not being able to defeat Julie Owens in two previous elections.

Real contenders It is understood Maria Kovacic was not Scott Morrison’s first choice–with State MPs David Elliott and Mark Taylor approached to run for the federal seat. Both said they were not interested. The only other real contender apart from Kovacic and Charles Camenzuli was former Hornsby councillor Felicity Findlay. Kovacic ran a successful mortgage and finance business for 16 years, while she and her husband Glenn raised their now adult children, and sits on the board of the Franchise Council of Australia.

She has been an active member of the Parramatta community, as the co-founder of Western Sydney Women and Western Sydney Executive Women, member of the Committee for Western Sydney, NRLW Advisory Committee member, and a member of the steering committee for Parramatta Eels’ Women@Eels. “Years ago, I began my own business to ensure financial security for my children,” Kovacic said. “Working hard to support my children, it was tough going trying to balance the demands of a small business and family but I persevered, built a thriving finance business, and used the lessons that I had learned to help others through the Franchise Council of Australia and Hills Community Aid.” “As a daughter of migrants, I understand the challenges and aspirations of this community. My parents fled communism for a better life in Australia, and taught me the values that have helped me throughout my life.” Committed to helping women succeed in business and community roles, Kovacic helped found Western Sydney Women and Western Sydney Executive Women. “Sydney’s west has some very unique char-

acteristics, and so do the people who make it their home. I wanted to help facilitate opportunities and stronger networks for local women, to create and grow more local success stories.” “If elected, I will be a strong advocate for this community in the Morrison Government – helping to deliver infrastructure, amenities and support for small businesses and local families.” Out on the hustings,Kovacic has found that people are mostly interested in the cost of living and she says there has been a positive approach to the Federal Budget, especially tax cuts and help for families. “I am ready to work hard for Parramatta,” she said.

Labor’s elusive man a force  DI BARTOKJ HILE the Labor local rank and file members are still fuming over Anthony Albanese’s choice of candidate for Parramatta, many are conceding that the he might still strike a chord with the electorate. Andrew Charlton, with his smiling, well-attired demeanour, certainly is a man of achievement and, if elected, will prove to be a force, in Opposition or Government. He has been given the nod by retiring Parramatta MP Julie Owens, who, though she backed rank and file favourite Durga Owen, has conceded that Mr Charlton would make a formidable member of parliament. But, is the economist who advised Kevin Rudd during the Global Financial Crisis and lives in a Bellevue Hill mansion the best fit for a diverse area like Parramatta?

As Charlton and his team traipse the electorate during the campaign, people’s perceptions have been changing. A Labor source, who also was against the Opposition Leader choosing an out-oftowner, told the Times that Charlton has been charming voters and would appeal especially to the northern end of the electorate. “Not so sure about the more ethnically-diverse southern end, though,” he said. He wants to give back Labor Parramatta councillor Pierre Esber, initially against “a multi-millionaire from the East” contesting the seat has changed his tune after meeting Charlton. “Look, there are MPs who live out of their electorates but what matters is their determination to do the best by their constituents,” Esber told the Times. “He wants to give back, he told me, and feels Parramatta is a good fit for him.

He has the credentials to be a Minister and it is time that Parramatta had a seat in Cabinet.” One of the interesting things about the Parramatta electorate–in its long history, it has only had white Australian MPs, even though those from other ethnic groups have been fielded as candidates. Those who have held Parramatta, Labor or Liberal, have worked hard to engage with everyone in the electorate to hold the seat. Julie Owens, who is retiring after 18 years in the seat, has always enjoyed a good relationship with the various ethic communities, often attending Indian events in colourful saris. It is a demanding electorate, with residents, community groups and the business community expecting to see the local MP at their events. Luckily, Charlton would look as good in

an Indian tunic as he does in a suit. Albanese is unrepentant on his “captain’s choice”, saying Charlton would be an 'outstanding' MP. “I think Andrew will be able to not just relate to all of the people of Parramatta, but be an outstanding representative for them.” However, while active out on the hustings, with updates on his Facebook page, Charlton has proved elusive to journalists. His campaign office did not return calls

Former mayor enters the fray TEVE Christou, the colourful former mayor of Cumberland, has entered the fray in the battle for Parramatta in the upcoming Federal election. What was already an interesting scene, -with Labor going for “Albo choice” Eastern Suburbs businessman Andrew Charlton and Prime Minister Scott Morrison anointing local dynamo Maria Kovocic, albeit surpassing a rank-and-file plebiscite - Christou is set to set a cat among the pigeons in the election race. Christou, who has lived in the Western Suburbs all his life, believes that only a local can truly understand and represent the interests of the community. “I have decided to run as a candidate to give the electorate of Parramatta a real alternative outside of the two major political parties,” he said. “For way too long the Parramatta electorate has been taken for granted by political opportunists who have

not delivered any outcomes for the local community. The locals feel they are being used as a vehicle to elevate big egos into Government, with no real commitment to community interests and needs.” Christou said the Labor Party’s ‘cynical decision to install a millionaire candidate from Bellevue Hill ‘ into the electorate of Parramatta is a real ‘slap in the face’ of local residents and demonstrates the disdain they have for the community. “This is the second time the Labor Party has parachuted an outsider into the Parramatta seat. Julie Owens was an outsider from North Sydney in 2005, now history repeats itself with this bloke from Bellevue Hill,” Christou said. “They are opportunists who searched around for a place to land their rich mate, who was a former advisor to Kevin Rudd. What would a multi-millionaire know about the needs of hard-working Austra-

lians? What would he know or care about the day-to-day costs of tolls, expensive commutes to the City and dealing with infrastructure changes that are taking place here on our doorstep?” “Similarly, the Liberal Party didn’t care enough when it decided to abandon its residents in both Parramatta and Cumberland City Council. They abandoned the community in these areas and refused to endorse and run candidates.” Christou, while Mayor, became a regular on the 6pm news speaking out against the harsh lockdowns people in his area endured. “Our community continues to be greatly affected by Covid. It was forced to endure extended lockdowns, restrictions, curfews, extra police and the deployment of the army to our local streets. Tens of thousands of people were unable to go to work and support their families. They

were unable to pay their mortgage, rent, bills, or put food on the table to feed their children,” he said. Christou said businesses and residents who have not recovered from the lockkdowns were now facing the flooding crisis. “The response by our elected leaders has been dismal and catastrophic to our local community because we are simply not on their radar,” he said.. Needless to say, he will be putting Labor last on his how-to-vote card.

NewS

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

40 MINUTES OFF TRAVEL TIME

Parramatta to Sydney Airport HE WestConnex which will shave 40 minutes between Parramatta and Sydney Airport by bypassing up to 52 sets of traffic lights is entering the final stages of construction. It will also ease the infamous traffic congestion on Parramatta Rd and other Western Sydney roads. In a major milestone, the new road surface has been laid on the WestConnex M4-M5 Link Tunnels paving the way for the completion of the 7.5km motorway. NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the missing link between Haberfield and St Peters would slash travel times and provide more reliable journey times for motorists. “With the road paving, excavation and tunnel breakthroughs complete, the last of the Roadheaders have packed up and left the M4-M5 Link Tunnels site, allowing us to move into the final stages of construction before we open to traffic,” Mr Perrottet said. “This critical project will help transform Sydney’s road network helping more people get to where they need faster and take the pressure off our local roads with the new link having capacity for up to 100,000 vehicles a day.” Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher said the completion of the ‘missing link’ in the WestConnex would significantly reduce traffic and heavy vehicles on congested local streets like Parramatta Rd. “WestConnex is one of the most significant road infrastructure projects in the

country, and it’s already having an impact on the lives of Sydneysiders by improving connections across the city,” Mr Fletcher said. “More than 10,000 workers have been involved in the M4-M5 Link Tunnels so far, with around 40% of them from Western Sydney.

City shaping projects “Today marks another significant milestone in the delivery of this project with the road paving having now been completed meaning for the first time, we are able to drive from one end of M4-M5 Link Tunnels to the other. “The Federal Government continues to work closely with the NSW Government to deliver city shaping infrastructure

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projects like WestConnex – the last stage of which will be completed next year. “What this will mean for the people of Sydney is less time spent in traffic and more time with loved ones, and the ability to move around the city more easily for work, which has a positive economic and productivity impact.” Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the NSW Government was committed to transforming the way we move around Sydney. “Our motorways play a vital role in getting commuters where they need to be, with a quicker and more reliable journey,” Ms Ward said. “The M4-M5 Link Tunnels form a critical aspect of our transport planning, taking the pressure off local roads and

helping commuters spend less time behind the wheel and more time with their loved ones. “Now we are entering the next exciting stage, fitting out the tunnels and getting them ready for drivers, who will be able to experience the full benefits of WestConnex when the project is completed next year.” The countdown is now on to delivering the final piece of the 33km world-class motorway, with work also continuing on the Rozelle Interchange. Transurban Group Executive for WestConnex, Andrew Head, said the first stages of WestConnex were already reducing travel times and improving safety and liveability. “With 40% of Sydney expected to live within 5km of WestConnex within the next decade, this project will transform the way we move as part of a mobility revolution across our city,” Mr Head said. “We have already seen air quality improve by 10 to 15% in parts of the inner west since the opening of the M4 tunnels, while travel times have reduced by up to an hour and safety has improved by up to 40%.” The M4-M5 Link Tunnels remain on track to open in 2023. WestConnex also includes new parks, open spaces, urban artworks and 23km of new and improved pedestrian and bike paths. For details: https://www.westconnex.com.au/ roads-projects/m4-m5-link-tunnels/.

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE PARRAMATTA

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

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

ERADICATING A PROPERTY SCOURGE

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

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

THE RULES ARE CLEAR

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

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

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

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

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ISSUE 20 | MARCH 2022

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MARCH 2022 | EDITION 130 APRIL 2021 Edition 120

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

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

BUSINESS SURVEY

CHARITY SUPPORT

Why finding staff is the biggest concern: 5

Our favourite charities in two years of COVID: 10

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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

LINES

FULL STORY PAGE 10

Here’s how business traditions will change

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

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

TALE OF TWO POOLS SAS CHALLENGE A Parramatta Olympian THIS EDITION

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

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

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

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

New suburb named BradÀeld

Govy ofÀcially names high tech city at Aerotropolis: 6

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

BEST GIFT SINCE THE OPERA HOUSE

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ParramattA ParramattA Pa arram T I M E S

Voice of Australia’s most progressive city

Family business in COVID

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

How hope really works

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

SALOVS: How hope really happens: 19

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

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Issue 1 | April 2021

PROPERTY RTY UPDATEE

GAME TIME

MICHELLE ROWLAND

Inside the bank of mum and dad: 16

Blacktown FC is B ready to go: 31

How Afghan women typify our diversity: 18

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

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ISSUE 21 | April 2022

NewS

Improved parking in the CBD HE City of Parramatta is moving forward with an innovative plan to revamp carparking in the Parramatta CBD to better accommodate the needs of residents, visitors and workers. As part of its recently endorsed Parramatta CBD Parking Strategy, Council has identified short, medium and longterm improvements that will optimise existing parking facilities by applying technology and other measures to help make parking easier for drivers and local businesses. “As Parramatta continues to grow, so does the demand for accessible and connected transport options – and Council recognises that having public parking within the CBD is an important part of the mix,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Donna Davis said. “Our Parramatta CBD Parking Strategy takes a balanced approach to connecting private and public transport methods, as well as active transport links, to make it easier and more convenient for people to shop, visit, work, and do business in our City.”

vate parking providers to increase available parking by accessing unused spaces; changing the Eat Street car park to a maximum stay of four hours to support local business; improving the appearance and functionality of Council-run car parks; installing electric vehicle charging stations; and adding solar panels to the rooftops. “Parramatta is a global city and a popular destination, so it’s important we continue to attract visitors to our theatres, restaurants, stadiums and other venues by make parking easier,” Cr Davis said.

The new strategy identifies improvements that can be delivered over the coming months and years, including the introduction of the latest parking technol-

ogy to increase efficiency in existing car parks. Other proposed changes include working with local businesses and pri-

For more information about parking in the City of Parramatta, visit cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/ living/parking-and-transport/car-parks

Small business support extended MALL businesses hit hardest by the Omicron wave have been handed a further lifeline, with the Small Business Support Program extended to a new closing date of April 29, 2022. The financial support package has assisted businesses, workers and the performing arts across NSW with cash flow and to continue trading. Treasurer Matt Kean said the four-

week extension was important to ensure small businesses have the resources they need to survive COVID-19 and bounce back. “This extension will allow more businesses to apply,and takes into account potential application delays for businesses from flood-affected areas,” Mr Kean said. Small Business Minister Eleni Petinos

said that due to the crucial role played by the 800,000 small businesses across NSW in providing essential goods, services and jobs, the Government wanted to ensure sufficient time was provided for as many to apply as possible. The Small Business Support Program provides eligible businesses a lump sum payment of 20 per cent of weekly payroll with a minimum payment of $500 per

week and a maximum payment of $5,000 per week. Businesses with an annual turnover of between $75,000 and $50 million that experienced a decline in turnover of at least 40 per cent in January 2022 and the start of February 2022 are eligible.

For more information please visit www.nsw.gov.au/.

WSABE 2022

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

Entries open for WSABE 2022 HE 2022 Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence Showcase Launch officially marked the commencement of the 2022 WSABE Campaign, with Award Entries open, and honoured our prized WSABE Alumni on April 1 at Holiday Inn Warwick Farm. On behalf of the WSABE Committee and our sponsor host the Commonwealth Bank, The Parramatta Chamber

of Commerce thanked all WSABE patrons for their support over the years. The WSABE Showcase provided a networking opportunity to share business success stories of WSABE Finalists & Winners from across the Greater Western Sydney region. “Thank you to our speakers the @DrGeoffLee MP, Member for Parramatta, Josh Foster, General Manager, Business Banking NSW, Commonwealth Bank and 2021

WSABE Alumni for Commonwealth Bank Business of the Year Tony Nash CEO Booktopia, for providing key insights across the program,” said Parramatta Chamber President Luke Magee. Entries to the 2022 WSABE are now open, please visit https://wsabe.com.au/enter-now/ to enter. The Parramatta Times and Western Sydney Business Access are media support partners for WSABE.

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

WSABE 2022

Senior's LivinG

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

Senior’s card goes digital

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HILE pearl is the traditional gift for a thirtieth anniversary, the NSW Government is celebrating 30 years of the Seniors Card by making it digital via the Service NSW app. Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the digital Seniors and Seniors Savers Cards will make life easier for seniors by taking the hassle out of everyday transactions. “Seniors have already embraced the Service NSW app through programs like Dine & Discover NSW and the Digital Driver Licence, and this digital option provides them with greater choice and flexibility,” Mr Dominello said. “The Service NSW app is secure and convenient, and digital cards and credentials mean there is one less thing for customers to carry around with them.

“The rollout follows a successful pilot with 4,000 participants, with the vast majority giving it the thumbs up.” Minister for Seniors Mark Coure said the program has been providing savings since its inception in 1992, including on gas and electricity. “We have brought this service, which has been beneficial for easing the cost of living for seniors, into the twenty-first century,” Mr Coure said. The digital cards will be opt-in only and customers will continue to receive a physical card.

To find instructions on how to add a digital Seniors or Senior Savers Card to the Service NSW app or to learn more visit www. service.nsw.gov.au/ campaign/nsw-seniors-card-program

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

CommenT with COMMUNITY MIGRANT RESOURCE CENTRE

REFRAMING HEROISM

The ultimate test of leadership  PRISCELLA MABOR HEN the Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky was offered safe passage out of his country’s warzone in the first days following the Russian invasion, he firmly announced: “I need ammunition, not a ride.“ As leader of 44 million Ukranians, facing down a neighbouring country of 144 million, he was asked the ultimate test of any leader facing occupation. His response was one of resistance facing down the Goliath of Russian might, and he communicated in an authentic and plain-spoken manner which appeared to unite a nation. Overnight he assumed the position of wartime leader in lock step with the citizens of his country. Since that day in February, every speech Zelensky has delivered from behind a desk, out on the streets or in a bunker standing side by side by with the citizens of Ukraine, has been carefully dissected. More recently, he has been addressing Parliaments of many countries and on March 30, he addressed the Australian Federal Parliament. Many are looking now for clues as to what and how explains this one person and their elevation to global hero / leader. For some in elected positions, questions of leadership arise in a crisis. For others, they may be tapped on the shoulder or they may volunteer for the role. At challenging times like this the Community Migrant Resource Centre has been reflecting on heroism, leadership, sacrifice and collective action on a more localized level. At our recent 25-year Anniversary, we paid tribute to Weyata Badu who worked tirelessly for the Sierra Leonean community here in Sydney, after the brutal ethnic cleansing campaign in her home country. When a crisis unfolds, how do we respond as individuals, communities, as a society. As we have learnt from global pandemics and the recent floods, a community-led response generally emerges well before a government, and often operates quietly in the shadows of our suburban streets. The Ukranian community in Sydney and across Australia has now been called to action. I spoke to Olha who volunteers with the Ukranian Association of Sydney, who was precise in when she assumed a lead-

Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

ership role.” It was 2pm on Thursday the February 24 when Putin started bombing Kiev, then I started work.” Having fled to Australia following Russia’s invasion and annexation of Crimea in 2014, Olha only relocated to Sydney from Melbourne last year.

Social capital working at its best “I see myself first as as Ukranian, before I see myself as part of an association. First, I was able to help my family, and then I started helping others with the knowledge I had gained. Following her own escape with her family, there is much that Olha has learnt over the last 5 – 7 years and that includes how to navigate a number of complex systems. Social capital working at its best. “I was able to help Ukranians overseas with visa information, explain the process, recommend airlines, talk about entry requirements, where to find accommodation here and access to basics upon arrival.”

For five weeks, Olha has been assuming the role of DFAT, immigration and resettlement; all on a voluntary basis while working part-time as a marketing manager. This was a crisis that was not completely unexpected but escalated quickly as four million fled across borders and six million became internally displaced. “I had to build a structure of support overnight and launch a team of volunteers who were coordinating accommodation and the data bases. We then shared our best practice methods, nationally. “Interestingly, it is not only Ukranians who have stepped forward to take in the new arrivals. We have many Australian families providing housing, plus also Russian families helping. “ Olha and others who fled following the Crimea annexation, are the “pioneers”. Post WW2, Ukranians arrived here, but Crimea ignited a second wave. “I came on a skilled visa and I knew I was going to get as far away from Europe as

possible. It was either going to be Canada or Australia. Europe is at risk and you can see what is happening now.“ While the men stay behind to defend, those arriving are mostly women, children and the elderly. For those in their 80s who have just arrived, they have left their homeland possibly for good. With the Prime Minister announcing last week, 4, 500 places being allocated for Ukranians over the coming weeks and months, there will no doubt be many more stories like Olha’s out there. It is these stories that reframe what active citizenship, the restoration of human dignity and serving the needs of the wider community, are all about. Leadership does not always have to announce itself by hanging a shingle outside the door; it can operate in many shapes and forms to ignite the human spirit in us all. Priscella Mabor Inclusion Strategy & Innovations Manager a the Community Migrant Resource Centre. Visit www.cmrc.com.au

Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation established in 1996. CMRC is a leader in the provision of specialised support services to newly arrived migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants. CMRC works within a community capacity building framework to encourage individuals and multicultural communities to identify and address their own issues. It works in collaborative partnerships with a great number of agencies to provide services which have both an immediate and long term benefit for the community. CMRC employs over 60 full time, part-time and casual multi-lingual staﬀ. Paramatta office Level 4, 1 Horwood Place Parramatta, NSW 2150 Ph: (02) 9687 9901 Monday – Friday: 9AM – 5PM

The Hills office

Community Hub Castle Towers Level 3, 6-14 Castle Street, Castle Hill, NSW 2154 Northern Region office

Shop 3030 Top Ryde City CNR Devlin And Blaxland Rd RYDE NSW 2112

FitnesS

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

10 REASONS YOU SHOULD BE EXERCISING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

and you will recover at a much faster rate.

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

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

Crosswords/Games

Solutions page 38

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

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

CommenT

with Geoff Lee MP

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

Powerhouse secures $10M partnership OWERHOUSE Parramatta has secured a $10M commitment to support the establishment of the Holdmark Gallery and a new summer school program. Delivered in collaboration with Western Sydney University, the funding is provided by Holdmark Property Group founder and managing director Sarkis Nassif. Minister for the Arts Benjamin Franklin said the Holdmark Gallery will be the second largest gallery space in Powerhouse Parramatta, featuring 2300 square metres of floor space and 8-metre-high ceilings. “Powerhouse Parramatta is a once-in-generation project. This incredible museum will bring people from around Australia and the world to Sydney with two million visitors coming to Western Sydney annually,” Mr Franklin said. “I send my profound gratitude to the Nassif family for this extraordinary gesture. Their generosity will set the platform for thousands of NSW students to learn about disciplines that will play key roles in jobs of the future. “The community support for Powerhouse Parramatta has been overwhelming with $45 million already invested by donors towards this transformational museum – the enthusiasm for this project is incredible to see.” The partnership will also underpin a biennial exhibition focusing on innovation in design, engineering and architecture. Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said Powerhouse Parramatta will impact generations of young people from Western Sydney and regional NSW. “Powerhouse Parramatta will be Western Sydney’s first Cultural Institution, and to see generous partners from Western Sydney like Sarkis Nassif demonstrate their passion for the community and generations of young people is wonderful,” Mr Ayres said. “More than 4,000 jobs will be created across the project’s lifespan with 70 per cent of the construction workforce employed from Western Sydney. Powerhouse Parramatta will become a cultural anchor for our state and I can’t wait to see the impact this museum will have on the many communities of NSW.” The NSW Government has invested $840 million in the museum which will deliver dynamic exhibition programming focused on science and technology. Minister for Corrections and Member for Parramatta Dr Geoff Lee said Powerhouse Parramatta will be a cultural icon that Western Sydney deserves. “We know that engineering, architecture and urban design are critical industries that drive the future of how we live our lives in Western Sydney,” Dr Lee said. “The Holdmark Summer School and Sydney Design Week will inspire our young people into career pathways that will stimulate a lifetime of learning. “I thank the Nassif family for this extraordinary contribution to arts and culture in Western Sydney.” Lendlease is delivering the Moreau Kusunoki and Genton designed museum and is expected to open in early 2025.

Read the digital edition of the Times anytime anywhere www.parramattatimes.com.au

Artist impression of the Gallery.

GEOFF LEE Del ivering for 11 , 3

Geoff LEE MP

Member for Parramatta 02 9891 4722

parramatta@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Ground Floor, 96 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Authorised by Geoff Lee MP, Ground Floor, 96 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

TraveL

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

BACK TO LIFE ON A DECK CHAIR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AutO

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

with JOHN MELLOR

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

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

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

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

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

FilM

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EntertainmenT

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

PARRAMATTA’S CBD REIGNITES

Epic outdoor autumn event series UTDOOR spaces across the Parramatta CBD will be transformed into buzzing entertainment venues as part of the City of Parramatta’s mammoth outdoor autumn event series, which includes the return of the award-winning Parramatta Nights and family-friendly Skate and Play events. Running until April 23, the jampacked program is set to be the biggest event series in Parramatta since the pandemic began. Boasting a smorgasbord of free activities for audiences of all ages, this year’s event program includes the inaugural Parramatta Nights Street Festival, two epic concerts in Parramatta Park, jazz in Parramatta Square, performances by some of Australia’s most renowned First Nations artists, as well as art installations, roving performers and food and beverage offerings. For younger audiences, there will also be a family-friendly Skate and Play event during the school holidays. “As restrictions ease, I welcome residents and visitors back to our City to revel in live performances and entertainment as part of our popular Parramatta Nights and Skate and Play events,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Donna Davis said. “This year, we’ve expanded the program to make it bigger and better, and we can’t wait to share it with you. You can skate, play, eat, sing, dance and be

Parramatta Park for one night only. The evening will kick off with the Australian Rock Collective (ARC) – which comprises music icons Darren Middleton from Powderfinger, Mark Wilson from Jet, Kram from Spiderbait, and Davey Lane from You Am I – and conclude with a spectacular 10-minute fireworks display. Rock in the Park is presented in partnership with Live Nation and Greater Sydney Parklands. Another new addition to Parramatta Nights, Ngana Birrung (Dharug for ‘black stars’) features a stellar line-up of hip-hop, R&B and dance performances by First Nations artists Briggs, Miiesha, JK-47, Soju Gang, and Jannawi Dance Clan.

Skate and Play

entertained. It’s an autumn event series for everyone. “Parramatta Nights is the perfect way to reinvigorate our City, support our local businesses and the creative arts industry, which have all taken a hit over the past two years.” Parramatta’s autumn event series runs over six weeks and all events will be delivered in line with public health orders.

Funk and punk music performances, along with collaborations featuring local DJs and radio presenters. Pop-up bars, food stalls, and a host of art installations and roving performers can also be found throughout the precinct. Australia’s best rock acts, including legendary singer and songwriter Jon Stevens, rock group the Baby Animals, and indie band Kingswood will light up the stage at

Prince Alfred Square – 8–23 April Entertain the kids these school holidays by taking them for a skate around the outdoor roller-rink in Prince Alfred Square or a spin on the Ferris wheel or other amusement rides. Don’t miss the larger-than-life immersive inflatable installation ‘Lost Dogs Disco’ by ENESS, which is making its Sydney debut. Jazz After Dark and the Parramatta Nights Street Festival is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s The Festival of Place in association with City of Parramatta Council. For more information, visit www.atparramatta. com/parramatta-nights

ISSUE 21 | April 2022

Women's Health

HEALTH AT EVERY SIZE

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

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

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

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

Men's Health

I FEEL MY LIFE IS GOING ROUND IN CIRCLES…

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

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

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

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

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

Parramatta Times - April 2022

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