Parramatta Times - Edition 2, October 2020 by Community Broadcast Network (CBN)

ParramattA Voice of Australia’s most progressive city

T I M E S

ISSUE 2 | October 2020

FEEL THE EELECTRICITY IT’S finals time and footy fever is sweeping the Parramatta community. You can feel the ‘’eelectricity’’ as Parramatta start their 2020 NRL ﬁnals campaign against Melbourne on Saturday, October 3, versus the Melbourne Storm, at Suncorp Stadium Brisbane, at 7.50pm.

POLICE NEWS: Spate of random punching attacks: 12

WE’RE OPEN

AUTO: Mazda reveals pricing for the new BT-50: 17

CITYSCAPES: Transformation of Parramatta on track: 13

TIME TO SPARK Special feature: 31

NEWS: NBN bureaucrats holding us back: 3

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October 2020

NBN bureaucrats holding us back MP’s pleas for city connectivity are falling on deaf ears

“

A first-rate city needs those types of businesses - the graphic artists, IT developers and the like and they are avoiding Parramatta.” – Parramatta Chamber Tall and skinny: the future of Parramatta and right, business is pushing for the NBN in the city.

 DI BARTOK USINESSES that underpin a firstrate city will not come to Parramatta without the NBN. Parramatta Chamber of Commerce president Schon Condon was commenting on Federal MP Julie Owens’s campaign to have the NBN installed in what is regarded as Sydney’s second CBD. Mr Condon said Parramatta was being hindered by remaining on the “to do” list of NBN installation, more than two years since it has been rolled out in other areas across Australia. “Large parts of the CBD just doesn’t have the NBN and while the existing businesses are coping, those hi tech and creative businesses are not coming here

because they need the high speeds,” Mr Condon said. “A first-rate city needs those types of businesses - the graphic artists, IT developers and the like - and they are avoiding Parramatta.” Mr Condon said the Chamber had approached the “NBN bureaucrats” numerous times but business entreaties were “falling on deaf ears”. “We are not getting answers as to why Parramatta is still waiting for the NBN,” he said. The Federal Government recently announced it would spend $4.5B on upgrading the NBN network to fibre to homes and businesses, on demand. Ms Owens, as Parramatta MP, is campaigning to have Parramatta connected

to the upgraded technology as soon as possible. “Parramatta is the second CBD, yet parts of Parramatta CBD, Rosehill and Harris Park will not be connected to the National Broadband Network (NBN) until 2022,” Ms Owens said. “This pretty much makes Parramatta the last on the list. “Meanwhile, while Parramatta waits and waits and waits, the Morrison Government is going to spend $4.5B to rebuild the NBN with fibre for 10 million homes and businesses that are already connected.” Ms Owens fears that as the Government upgrades the existing system, Parramatta was still headed for the “second-rate NBN”.

The Times has contacted Infrastructure Australia for comment, which we hope to feature in our next edition. Julie Owens COMMENT: 14

Auto Alley transformed under CBD plan HE sky’s the limit for Parramatta, Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer said, as the Parramatta CBD Planning Proposal went on public exhibition. The bold blueprint will clear the path for the construction of buildings as high as 243 metres, slender and eye-catching. “Our comprehensive plan includes controls that facilitate growth while also preserving the elements that make the City liveable – its natural light, heritage areas, views of the river foreshore, and functional and attractive public domains,” Cr Dwyer said. A 243-metre building is equivalent to approximately 62 storeys in a commercial

office tower or 75 storeys in a residential mixed tower. Council initiated the Parramatta CBD Planning Proposal to expand the City’s CBD boundaries and increase capacity for commercial opportunities and high-density residential development through changes to planning controls. The plan lays the foundation for the creation of 50,000 new jobs and 14,000 additional homes in the Parramatta CBD over the next 40 years. Under the proposal, the city’s wellknown ‘Auto Alley’ will be transformed into a thriving commercial precinct. Office towers will rise to 115 metres or 28 storeys,

and the precinct will host more than 20,000 new workers and about 2,000 new dwellings. “Auto Alley is a prominent gateway to our City and this makeover will give the Western Sydney economy a massive boost,” Cr Dwyer said. As part of the Parramatta CBD Planning Proposal, a Draft Update of Parramatta Floodplain Risk Management Plans will also be on public exhibition. This document details how Council proposes to manage flood risks in the Parramatta CBD to support the City’s development and growth. The Parramatta CBD Planning Proposal

and Draft Update of Parramatta Floodplain Risk Management Plans can be viewed on Council’s engagement website and in person at City of Parramatta library branches and Council’s Customer Contact Centre. Council will host an online Community Q&A Session on Tuesday October 13 from 6pm to 7:30pm and is also offering dedicated out-of-hours phone sessions to answer the community’s questions. For more information and to provide feedback, visit: https://participate.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/ cbd-planning Submissions must be received by 5pm on Monday, November 2.

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ISSUE 2 | October 2020 Michelle Garrard sets a new record

How to get The Times The Parramatta Times is available throughout the Parramatta LGA at 110 strategic locations. To find a location near you visit our website.

Community groups receive energy funds

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Contacts Editorial: michael@parramattatimes.com.au Admin and General: info@parramattatimes.com.au Editor: Michael Walls michael@parramattatimes.com.au

Newsroom Features editor: Di Bartok dibartok@yahoo.com.au News Reporter: Lawrence Machado lawrencemachado@yahoo.com News Reporter: Elizabeth Frias elizfrias@gmail.com Travel Editor: Dallas Sherringham dallas@accessnews.com.au

characterised by low levels and low intensities of physical activity – and that this is putting their health at greater risk.

MICHELLE Garrard (pictured) has set a record by being re-elected to her fourth term as deputy Lord Mayor of Parramatta. No other councillor has served a full term of council in that position, Cr Garrard said. While the deputy comes up for election by fellow councillors every year, the Lord Mayor serves a two-year term. Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer’s term ends at the local government election next September. The council elections were due this September, but Covid-19 pushed it to next year. Cr Garrard was elected as part of the Our Local Community (OLC) team on council in 2017. The only other nominee for the deputy’s position was Labor’s Patricia Prociv.

TWO community groups in Parramatta LGA will receive funding to lower energy costs and play their part in helping to reduce Australia’s emissions under the Federal Government’s Energy Efficient Communities Program. These include: The Scout Association of Australia New South Wales Branch (1st/2nd Merrylands Scout Hall) $11,364 and the Anglican Church Property Trust Diocese of Sydney (Toongabbie Anglican Church) $12,100. Under the Program, 275 not-for-profit community groups have been awarded grants across Australia for energy-saving projects. 1st/2nd Merrylands Scout Hall’s Group Leader, Mrs Jeanie Wood, was happy to receive the funding and said it would enable them to

reduce their costs and continue to serve their local community.

Complaints over internet services A REPORT from the Telecommunications Ombudsman shows over the financial year complaints about mobile services remained steady, but for internet and landline complaints it was a financial year of two distinct halves. In the first half, complaints about internet and landline services continued the previous quarter’s decline. This was a positive indicator of sector efforts over the past three years to reduce complaints and improve the delivery of telco services and products. The pandemic put significant pressure on telco call centres and back office functions based overseas, forcing many of these functions to close. This led to an almost 1,500 per cent year-on-year increase in the number of complaints from consumers who were unable to contact their telco about internet services.

Early to bed, early to rise

Advertising sales Graham Maughan graham@accessnews.com.au Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au

Administration Rebecca Swaleh info@parramattatimes.com.au

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Support Partner The Parramata Times is the official media partner of the Parramatta Chamber of Commerce.

WHILE the old saying promises health, wealth and wisdom, new research confirms part of the adage holds true, as a study shows that people who go to bed early are more likely to be in better health and more physically active compared tonight owls. The University of South Australia study assessed the bedtime preferences (sleep chronotypes) of people with Type 2 diabetes, identifying a connection between bedtimes and healthy, active lifestyles. It found that night owls (people who went to late and got up late, or ‘evening chronotypes’) have an excessively sedentary lifestyle

The 2020 Coleman Greig Challenge gets under way.

Challenge raises $1M for children LEADING law firm, Coleman Greig Lawyers, held the Coleman Greig Challenge for the seventh year in a row in September, at Parramatta Park. The charity race attracted over 600 people and raised over $200,000 this year.

Since the event started in 2013, the firm has raised over $1M for children with special needs and newborn care. Former-Olympian and Doctor, Jana Pittman officially started this year’s race and awarded medals at the fundraising breakfast along with Deputy Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Michelle Garrard.

INDEX

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NEWS .............................. 3 CHAMBER ..................... 11 LAW AND ORDER ........ 12 CITYSCAPES ................ 13 JULIE OWENS .............. 14

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October 2020

United front in saving Willow Grove Darug elders, Michelle Locke and Julie Jones told the Upper house inquiry parliamentarians that the history of Willow Grove ARUG elders, community was connected to their ancestors groups, artists and union during the early settlement of representatives joined Parramatta. Upper House parliamenBoth are descendants of tarians in their inspection of Maria Lock, the daughter of Yarhistoric Willow Grove, deemed ramundi who went to the school for demolition to make way for for Aboriginal children in Parrathe riverside Powerhouse. matta established by Governor The parliamentarians runMacquarie. Maria is also known ning the Upper House Inquiry as the first Aboriginal woman into the State Government’s who married a European convict handling of the Powerhouse named Robert Lock in 1824 at St proposal were at Willow Grove John’s Church in Parramatta. on Friday September 25 “We’re fully behind the move The committee led by the to let Willow Grove stay as it is,” chair, Robert Borsak, MLC, Ms Locke said. “The pre-colonial leader of the NSW Shooters, Mike Stanley and Gary Carter from North Parramatta Action Group. and colonial history and culture Fishers and Farmers Party, property, Mr Borsak reported that the of Parramatta together with a new muspent the Friday morning holed up house was rundown. seum was all part of Darug history. We inside Willow Grove, a quaint two-storey should not destroy it.” Victorian architecture-designed house “It needs a lot of work and we are The unions that have threatened to built in 1891 by haberdashery shop owngoing to make sure this building is prestand in front of bulldozers to stop Wiler, Annie Gallagher. served and restored to its original condilow Grove’s demolition were represented The house, once a maternity hospital, tion…We think this building along with by the State Secretary of the Construcis standing majestically amidst towerSt George’s Terrace is important to the tion Forestry Mining and Electrical ing modern buildings at Phillip Street, heritage of Parramatta,” Mr Borsak said. Union, Darren Greenfield. and next door is St George’s Terrace, a Greens MP David Shoebridge has “This building needs to remain in the pink-painted building on the corner of accused the State Government of “arrohands of the community and we have Wilde Ave, also set for demolition. gance” because it has not been straighttens of thousands of members backing us The committee has openly expressed forward on its plans for Willow Grove up to continue this fight,” Mr Greensympathy to growing public sentiment after five years it has been acquired by field said. “We will stand in front of this to preserve the buildings, particularly the NSW Government under former building for as long as it takes to stop the the 130-year-old Willow Grove, which is NSW Premier Mike Baird. wrecking ball going through it.” being strongly supported by the North “You can choose between your hisSuzette Meade, NPRAG spokesperParramatta Residents Action Group tory and museum and the message we son, said their campaign to save Willow (NPRAG), unions, conservation groups, got from the local community, the Darug Grove, has garnered huge backings from and Aboriginal groups in Western Sydelders, and residents is that Parramatta residents and community organisations ney. deserves the need of both world-class and they would send their message to After inspecting the building, with history and museum,” Mr Shoebridge Premier Gladys Berejiklian. the media banned from entering the said.

 ELIZABETH FRIAS

TIME MOVES ON • The new Powerhouse Parramatta is expected to create 1100 construction jobs, up to 2400 indirect jobs, and hundreds more once opened. • House built on one acre by a Mr Paul in 1891, named Willow Grove after the willows along the riverbank. • His relative Anne Gallagher lived on the property. • Sold to a Mrs Bolton before midwife Mrs E Davidson bought it in 1919 and ran it as a maternity hospital. • Agostino family owned house 1986 to 1994, restored it, but heritage restrictions made it unsuitable for commercial use. • Parramatta Council bought property in 2015 to incorporate it into a riverside recreation area. • State Government bought site in 2017, removed heritage protection in 2019. • Both David Borger, Western Sydney Business Chamber chairman and Parramatta Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer have advocated moving the building to another site. • Parramatta councillors, while wanting the Powerhouse, do not support demolition of Willow Grove and St George’s Terrace.

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October 2020

Volunteers who help struggling farms Call out for 30 new recruits to join the cause

CEO Jannine Jackson

Singleton, Eumungerie, Yeoval, Walgett, Cobar Gravesend, Coolatai, Gunnedah, Armidale, Inverell, Lightning Ridge, Murga, Nymagee, Parkes, Warialda, Broken Hill, Coolareneber, Tamworth and Toowareenah. The range of jobs include general farm maintenance, fencing, vineyard hand, painting, carpentry, machinery repair and other mechanical and farm labouring tasks. “Some volunteers who have IT knowledge assist farmers to search the internet, help navigate online for Centrelink services while others help with artistic activities such as creating drawings and paintings so regardless of someone’s skills set, we need them and we welcome them with wide-open arms,” Ms Jackson said. In exchange for a volunteer’s generosity, Ms Jackson said, some farmers provide petrol allowance and free accommodation while other volunteers prefer to camp out in their own motorhomes and make their own travel plans to and from the property.

“Some farmers trying to start over again cannot afford to get supplies so that is one of the compounding problems we have in the bush.” Due to border restrictions, Frontier is not sending volunteers interstate so in NSW they will be going to

To find out more how you could volunteer, call 1300 787 247 or click on www.frontierservices.org. Frontier is raising $200K for its Bush Chaplain and Outback Link program assisting farmers get through the COVID-19 pandemic and if you can assist, email fsfundraising@frontierservices.org.

 ELIZABETH FRIAS T’S 108 years since Reverend Flynn’s Australian Inland Mission consisting of doctors, nurses and chaplains set up “mantle of safety” posts for the Aboriginal and European settlers in the remotest parts of Australia. Today it’s called Frontier Services at Parramatta whose big-hearted, multi-skilled throng of volunteers come from all walks of life: retirees, engineers, mechanics, IT specialists, artists, teachers, office clerks, and carpenters carrying on the amazing work Flynn and his “Patrol Padres” on horseback did since 1912. If you have time on your hands, Frontier urgently needs to fill 30 volunteer roles in various towns in NSW to lend a hand to families that haven’t been back on their feet since the drought, bushfire and the Coronavirus pandemic hit their livelihoods. “We need people of all skills levels who can help us help families who have not had incomes since their farms were severely ravaged by the drought then be crippled by the coronavirus on top of that,” CEO Jannine Jackson said. “These families are genuinely struggling and suffering beyond anything they’ve experienced in their lifetime and doing it very tough.

Time to honour good citizens

“Australia Day is a wonderful opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate the unsung heroes who have gone above and beyond for our community, particularly during this difficult year,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said. “I encourage you to nominate a person or organisation that you believe

has helped make our City a better place, whether through the arts, education, welfare, volunteering, sports, or an act of kindness.” Nomination categories this year include Citizen of the Year, Junior Citizen of the Year, Young Adult Citizen of the Year and Senior Citizen of the Year. There is also a Community Group

Award. Nominations close at 5pm on Wednesday, November 18. Council will host the 2021 City of Parramatta Australia Day Awards on Thursday 21 January 2021 at Rosehill Gardens. For more information and to submit a nomination visit: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/ausdayawards

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Westmead school precinct traffic gridlock Growing mega-school enrolments need better traffic regulations  DI BARTOK ITH the rapid expansion of the Westmead education and health precinct, Parramatta Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer is concerned about the worsening traffic problems in the already-deadlocked suburb. He and councillors have called on the State Government to remedy traffic congestion in Westmead considering proposals for a mega-school development from the Parramatta Catholic Education Diocese and the new University of Sydney campus. Cr Dwyer is particularly concerned with the extra traffic expected from parents and travelling school students. The Catholic proposal is for four schools on the one site, in Darcy Rd – that is, the amalgamation of Catherine Macauley (high school), Parramatta Marist (high school), Mother Teresa Primary and Sacred Heart Primary, as well as the Sacred Heart parish church, creating an integrated learning and worship centre. Eventually, there will be 4000 students on the site. If approved, the project is expected to be completed by 2028, after being built in stages. Stage 1, the mega primary school and the church, is now before the NSW Department of Planning after an extensive consultation period that had submissions from parents, the community and Parramatta and Cumberland Councils. It has been submitted as a State Significant development, which means

Artist impressions of the Catholic School plans.

approval rests with the State Government and not the councils. Cr Dwyer said the Westmead area was already overwhelmed with traffic generated from the schools as they are. Cr Dwyer and councillors are not against the Catholic schools’ development but are pushing for road and traffic flow improvements from the government.

Add to the woes “This is just too much for that area – you can’t move around Darcy St, especially with parents dropping off and picking up their children,” Cr Dwyer told the Times. “It’s no use saying there is plenty of public transport as parents of primary children tend to want to pick them up and drop them off.”

In a recent Lord Mayor Minute presented and passed at council, Cr Dwyer called for the State Government to look at measures to improve traffic flow in Hawkesbury and Darcy Rds, such as changing traffic signal timing, right turn restrictions and other measures. Cr Dwyer said it was not only expansion of the Catholic education precinct that would add to Westmead’s woes. “We also have the University of Sydney expanding in the area. Westmead is a major health and education precinct but the roads cannot cope now, let alone the future,” he said. “Apart from traffic congestion, I worry about the safety of young children with the added traffic.” But Executive Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta Greg Whitby said the proposed development would improve traffic flow for Westmead. “The new access roads, additional parking and kiss-and-drops we’re proposing are part of the solution, not just for the schools but for the suburb,” he said. “The light rail and metro projects, as well as improved pedestrian access, will also provide more opportunities for students to travel to school by public transport,” he said in a statement to the Times. “Projects like this need to be approved by the State Government rather than local councils. Of course, we’ve been cooperatively working with council

“

Every year, Westmead Catholic schools turn away hundreds of families seeking a Catholic education for their children.” – Greg Whitby. representatives right throughout the planning process to make sure we get great outcomes on traffic management and roads,” Mr Whitby said. He said the mega-Catholic precinct was necessary to meet the growing demands of local families. “Every year, Westmead Catholic schools turn away hundreds of families seeking a Catholic education for their children,” Mr Whitby said. “The Department of Education is also struggling to meet the growing demand for enrolments in Westmead.”

Catholic school children.

Time to act is NOW LANS for Westmead mean pain and progress and shows a need for a comprehensive traffic flow plan to cope with added traffic. While the light and heavy rail will relieve some of the demands for the expected extra thousands of commuters to the burgeoning health and education precinct, the new education projects will also put an extra burden on the roads. The University of Sydney’s planned mega campus will have more than 6000 students by 2030 and the Catholic schools campus will draw 4000 students by 2028. The time to act on traffic congestion and pedestrian safety is now, says Lord Mayor of Parramatta Bob Dwyer.

October 2020

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE OPEN Parramatta, known to locals for diverse and delicious cuisines. Our much-loved foodie destination is open for a quick bite before a game, a gastronomical experience after a show at Riverside Theatres, a hearty meal on a family night out, or a quiet drink on a cosy date night. All your favourite cafes and restaurants on Eat Street, Phillip Street, Macquarie Street, and across our great City are open for business and looking forward to welcoming you and your loved ones! Support your favourite local businesses. #GOLOCAL

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Professor Glen Maberly (left) and researcher Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz, and below photo, watching a Telehealth check-up video call at Blacktown Hospital Diabetes Education Centre.

October 2020

WSLHD health care interpreter Yulita Luck. (Photo courtesy of WSLHD Media)

Telehealth is fast gaining traction Video consultations taking the place of outpatients  ELIZABETH FRIAS F you thought of using Telehealth to consult with a GP or specialist via phone or video call in the fight against COVID-19, now is the best time to do so. As COVID-19 remains a threat Telehealth has become an option for those in hotspots, at greater risk of infection, too frail to attend hospital or unable to travel to see a doctor. Telehealth is a medical service via phone or video call accessible to patients in regional NSW prior to the onset of the pandemic, and it was experimented at the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) to save the lives of people with acute diabetes.

It is also the digital platform used by the WSLHD Public Health Unit to check in daily with COVID-19 patients recovering at home. The phone or video consultations have been found effective in managing the health of some 72,000 people diagnosed with diabetes in Western Sydney, with up to 18% of them currently using Telehealth from the security of their own homes during the pandemic. Western Sydney Diabetes director, Professor Glen Maberly said Telehealth was being increasingly taken up by diabetes patients, including those with other types of life-threatening illnesses. “We are still not running outpatients because we must keep social distancing, therefore we find telehealth works in

response to the pandemic,” said Prof Maberly. “When COVID-19 came along, people with diabetes or at-risk of developing diabetes were coming to the emergency units in reduced numbers, staying away because their chances of having a bad outcome or dying is at least twice as much as the normal population. “Diabetes is a disease that needs early detection and proper management [because] if left unmanaged it can lead to serious complications including heart attack, vision problems and kidney damage.” Western Sydney is considered a hotspot for diabetes with many at-risk people being diagnosed with either Type 1 or Type 2 at doctor’s clinics and hospitals, according to Professor Maberly. Even when the COVID-19 lockdown rules were relaxed, up to 14% drop in GP consultations on people with diabetes has been documented as face-to-face contacts at clinics and hospitals are shunned that something had to be done, said WSLHD research and surveillance coordinator Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz.

Swift changes needed

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A forum with 50 GPs and 150 health workers in Western Sydney was held last month to discuss swift changes on patient consultations and plan the pivot for Telehealth expert services through three-way video consultations that may involve the services of an interpreter for linguistically diverse patients. Along with their health education work in Western Sydney, Professor Maberly and Mr Meyerowitz-Katz were part of NSW Health pilot program looking into Telehealth specialist services for Goulburn and other rural NSW towns where fly-in-fly-out health specialists are not available regularly.

Professor Glen Maberly watching a Telehealth consultation on video call.

An additional $2B Federal Government funding for Telehealth under Medicare has been extended till March next year to assist vulnerable sick people in isolation receive medical care. Between March 13 and September 9 this year, the Federal Department of Health said about 10.4 million patients have utilised Telehealth resulting in $1.52B paid in Medicare benefits. The Western Sydney Local Health District covers the local government areas of Blacktown, The Hills Shire, Cumberland and Parramatta providing health services to nearly a million residents in 120 suburbs. A survey of 1400 patients across Australia was recently conducted to gauge the impact of Telehealth services during the pandemic with 60% of respondents agreeing to endocrinology or diabetes but less enthusiastic with mental health, Mr Meyerkovitz-Katz said. Professor Maberly said future planning on Telehealth whether it can be expanded into a permanent medical service if proven “very convenient and very efficient” for consultations that do not require a patient’s physical examination should also be considered.

October 2020

Parramatta Chamber

These are a change of TIMES Business as we know it has been transformed  SCHON G CONDON RFD T is undeniably an unprecedented period of rapid change. Business as we knew it, has transformed, some predict indefinitely. Conversations at the water cooler were lost to zoom meetings. All domestic rules around screen time ironically ignored as more technology was embraced including home schooling and the WFH phenomenon. Our language has changed, the way we do business has changed, the way we interact, shop, eat, relax and live. Some say this time has been invaluable to reconnect with family and friends, like a much-needed re-set to put lives in perspective. Some look for pockets of opportunities and will embrace change, to move, to study, modify their business model to digital. Some may be left behind. Some industries are booming even opening new doors. Others are regrettably continuing to experience the darkest times of both their personal and professional lives. The Parramatta Chamber of Commerce represents the interests of the business community. Everything we do is at the core of benefiting our members. To build prosperity, listen, connect, guide, support and engage with other stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes for our great city. A city that has earned the right to be noticed. A city that stands proud on the map. We have been busy! Busy working for the business community during this period of rapid change.

We changed our communications to remain timely and relevant providing information to members that offered support for businesses on Government initiatives such as JobKeeper and Small Business Grants, aiming to simplify the content for easy navigation. We utilised social media channels and shared members stories to inspire and celebrate achievements such as members transforming their business models to adapt to the challenging climate. We remained positive and supportive introducing a spotlight on members to share their stories as well as introducing special e-newsletters with consistent messaging and open communication about the challenges including mental awareness and wellbeing. We wanted to share our Chamber journey through this challenging period and our efforts to remain positive in a

nurturing way through transparency and leadership. Due to the challenges with face to face restrictions, like most businesses it was crucial to pivot and adapt at rapid speed as well as balancing other challenging layers as a not-for-profit organisation.

It was crucial that we pivot In lieu of the face-to-face Chamber events that this city has come to value and appreciate, we needed to find new ways to encourage our members to stay connected and engaged in a time when continued conversations were more important than ever. In April 2020, we launched our ‘LIVE it LIVE’ business forums. We have since covered a wide range of topics, some unique, profiling our Members and delivering meaningful information. A recent survey of members asking for their feedback showed that 75% of Members

only join any webinar if they are interested in the topic. Our flagship platform WSABE is turning 30 this year and we were determined to celebrate this wonderful milestone with the business community – for the business community. Still remaining the most prestigious awards program in the Greater Sydney region, we re-adjusted the program from showcasing a digital campaign through to running the first event Finalist Event Celebration with over 140 people in attendance including The Hon Stuart Ayres MP, Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney. WSABE received a high level of engagement through a collaborative approach with all other Chamber and councils and accumulated more than 400 entries. In a particularly competitive year, WSABE is showcasing 118 finalists across 16 award categories, many of whom have demonstrated an extraordinary degree of resilience and innovation to not only remain relevant but thrive, despite the major obstacles that businesses across Australia have been forced to endure in 2020. We are celebrating these great stories. Our recent survey to members also revealed that almost 50% see themselves returning to face to face networking as soon as one months’ time. On that note, see you at the gala! We look forward to seeing everyone then! Schon Condon is President of the Parramatta Chamber of Commerce.

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Law and ordeR

12 Man punched in the face at Harris Park BOUT 6.55pm on Wednesday, September 16 2020, a 23-year-old man was walking along Marion Street Harris Park with other family members when it is alleged an unknown male approached and punched him in the face. The unknown male ran from the location leaving the man with a bleeding nose. Police were called and attended a short time later. Police conducted a canvass of the area but the unknown male could not be located. The unknown male is described as Caucasian, 30-35 years old, about 172cm tall, medium build, short blonde hair, brown beard, wearing a black jacket and black pants. Anyone with any information about the matter is encouraged to contact Parramatta Police Station on 96330799 or alternatively Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Lost control and collided with pedestrian island BOUT 3.30am on Saturday, September 19 2020, a 28-year-old Lalor Park man drove his Nissan Pulsar in a south-easterly direction along Old Windsor Road Northmead. As the man turned left at the intersection of Hammers Road it is alleged, he lost control of the vehicle and collided with a pedestrian island. Police attended the

location and a breath test was conducted which returned a positive result. The man was arrested and conveyed to Parramatta Police Station where a breath analysis was performed returning a reading in the middle range. The man had his licence suspended and was issued a court attendance for the offence of drive with middle range PCA. The man is due to appear before court on the 4th November 2020.

Man punched in the face at Wentworthville BOUT 10.10am on Saturday, September 19 2020, a 31-year-old Wentworthville man was walking along Church Street Parramatta when an unknown male approached and allegedly punched him in the face causing his lip to split open and bleed. The man immediately entered a nearby shop and called police. The male pace back and forth outside the store before leaving. Police attended and searched for the unknown male, but he could not be located. The unknown male is described as Caucasian wearing a black hat/beanie and green hooded jumper. Anyone with any information about the matter is encouraged to contact Parramatta Police Station on 96330799 or alternatively Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

HOW YOU CAN HELP WITH POLICE ENQUIRIES If you have any information about the incidents covered on this page, please call Parramatta Police on 9633 0799 or alternatively contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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September 2020

CityscapeS

October 2020

with Lord Mayor BOB DWYER

Transformation and growth as Parramatta looks to the future The AT PARRAMATTA Gift Card is an Eftpos-based card that can be used to buy goods and services from participating Parramatta businesses. So far, the Go Local campaign has actively driven 6,000 people to Parramatta business website listings, and more than 24,000 people have used the Eat and Drink content to discover more about Parramatta’s wide assortment of restaurants, cafes and other establishments.

 BOB DWYER HE City of Parramatta is currently experiencing a bold transformation and I’m proud to be the Lord Mayor during this time of unprecedented growth. As a long-time resident of the City, I have watched Parramatta take its place as Sydney’s Central River City – a vibrant hub of innovation and cultural diversity with an array of City-shaping projects under way. The past 12 months have seen us hit key milestones on projects such as Parramatta Square, the new Aquatic and Leisure Centre, and the redevelopment of Parramatta Quay. During this time of change and transition, the City of Parramatta Council is committed to supporting our diverse and growing community while delivering our projects responsibly and effectively. This year our City has had to transform and adapt in other ways as well, due to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many local businesses and industries have been hit hard and Council is continuing to do everything it can to support our community during this difficult time. Over the past six months, Council has been pleased to see many local businesses pivoting to address the changing marketplace. And as restrictions ease, more office workers will return and we will be ready to welcome them back.

CBD Planning Proposal

Parramatta is a city that attracts and develops ambitious thinkers – constantly evolving to create new opportunities in research, innovation, education, health and the arts. We are a city with a strong history of facing challenges head on.

Go Local Campaign Our small businesses, a crucial part of our local economy and a key contributor to our vibrant streetscapes – need our

333 Guildford Rd GUILDFORD NSW 2161 Phone: (02) 9632 6890 Fax: (02) 9681 1609 johnsguildford@yahoo.com.au

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support through the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and the construction of Parramatta Light Rail. That is why we have launched our Go Local campaign, which encourages people to shop locally. The campaign highlights local businesses, from those that are well-known to hidden gems, and encourages people to shop locally through a series of videos, advertisements, articles, social media posts and the AT PARRAMATTA Gift Card program.

Meanwhile, last month we released our CBD Planning Proposal for public comment. Changes to planning controls will allow buildings in parts of the City to rise up to 243 metres. That’s 62 storeys for a commercial office tower or 75 storeys in a residential mixed tower. The sky really is the limit for Parramatta! Our aspirations as a city is to encourage growth while preserving the things that make us special – our heritage, river foreshore, public spaces and vibrant multicultural community. To have your say on the CBD Planning Proposal visit participate. cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/cbd-planning. Submissions close 5pm, Monday 2 November. I look forward to updating you on more of Council’s plans, initiatives and programs next month.

Cr Bob Dwyer is Lord Mayor of City of Parramatta.

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CommenT

September 2020

with Julie Owens MP

Parramatta needs the real NBN now

Curious case of the PARRAMATTA NBN Virtual reality teaching is back on the table.

The Parramatta CBD and surrounds is last on the NBN rollout plan. We won’t get the NBN until 2022. Yet the Morrison Government is going to spend $4.5 billion to upgrade the NBN with ﬁbre for 10 million homes and businesses that are already connected.

“

Our CBD rollout is delayed, so let’s convince the Government to get it right the ﬁrst time. I’m calling for fast, reliable NBN built on ﬁbre in Parramatta now – not later. Please join me by signing the petition on my website: julieowens.com.au/nbn

Request a seniors kit I’ve updated my information kit for seniors with information about coronavirus and local services that can help you get through this difficult time. If you’d like a copy, please phone my office on 9689 1455 and we’ll post one out to you.

I heard of one family that goes to McDonalds every night so their children can do their homework on the free wifi.”  JULIE OWENS

Pensioners and Seniors INFORMATION KIT

This kit is provided with the compliments

Julie Owens MP

of:

YOUR LOCAL FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PARRAMATTA Address: 1/25 Smith Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Mail: PO Box 395, Parramatta NSW 2124 Tel: (02) 9689 1455 Email: julie.owens.mp@aph.gov.au Web: www.julieowens.com.au @JulieOwensMP

JulieOwensMP

Every eﬀort has been made to ensure

the accuracy of the information provided. Payment rates in this guide are current from May 2020.

JP Services Coronavirus office closures have caused a shortage of JP services in Parramatta. My office is organising COVID safe JP services at Club Parramatta on Wednesdays and every second Friday between 10:30am and 1:30pm. Bookings are essential – please call us on 9689 1455 to make an appointment. You can ﬁnd a list of other JP services currently available in Parramatta on my website: julieowens.com.au/jp Demand is pretty high, so if you’re a local JP who can help, please contact my p y office on 9689 1455.

Sign up for my bulletins I share useful information like this in three regular email bulletins – one for small businesses, one for community groups and a general bulletin for locals. You can sign up and unsubscribe on my website at any time: julieowens.com.au/bulletins SCAN ME

Julie Owens MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PARRAMATTA If I can be of any help please phone me on 9689 1455 or write to 1/25 Smith St, Parramatta NSW 2150 or email julie.owens.mp@aph.gov.au julie.owens.mp www.julieowens.com.au

DIDN’T know whether to be annoyed or amused when the Federal Government announced that the NBN was finished. Nice! EXCEPT! the CBD of Parramatta doesn’t have the NBN and won’t for at least another two years – in 2022 or later. Sorry guys, but if it’s not in Parramatta CBD, it’s not done. Telstra still has a rollout list and Parramatta CBD is last. Yep, last! But there might be a silver lining in being…well, last. The Government has now realised that fibre is the way to go and has announced a multibillion-dollar upgrade for areas that already have the NBN. Just maybe, we can convince the Government not to bother rolling out the inferior version first, and to go straight to fibre for us. Rolling out twice now that they have announced the rebuild would be a wee bit silly. Let’s get it right for Parramatta CBD the first time. And this is where you come in. Make your voices heard. Please, contact the Minister for Communications yourself, sign the petition on my website: julieowens.com.au/nbn, contact your local Council and local business groups and ask them to speak up for Parramatta. I will push for a better deal, and so should you. Then there are the opportunities that come with upgrades to fibre in areas that already have the slower NBN. All the things that my colleagues and I talked about back in 2012 are on the table again – things like shared workspaces for micro businesses; virtual reality teaching; smart houses for people with disabilities; and health monitoring at home. It’s a time to open our minds. The upgrades will go to people who are prepared to pay for higher speeds, exacerbating the existing inequity. What will we do as a community about the growing digital divide? We have a lot of units in Parramatta, many rented by lower income families with children who do not have access to internet at home. I heard of one family that goes to McDonalds every night so their children can do their homework on the free wifi. And finally, we don’t know yet where the extra upgrades will go. Given the Government’s history of using taxpayer funds, shall we say, rather selectively, they may prioritise some areas and not others. But, again, there’s a silver lining – Parramatta is a marginal seat (bad for me, but good for you). We must keep a close eye on this. We need to share information, complain about current speeds, make a business case for the many sole traders and microbusinesses in our suburbs, apply for upgrades, and drive the innovative thinking we need to bridge the growing digital divide in our community. I’ve added a new section to my website called Local Solutions, where you can put your name down if you want to help in some areas, or you just want to be kept informed to have the best chance of getting an upgrade: julieowens.com.au/solutions. We can’t be the community we need to be without the speed that fibre brings. We have had to wait far too long for it, but now we have to grab the opportunity that is in front of us.

Julie Owens is Federal Member for Parramatta.

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September 2020

AutO

with JOHN MELLOR

Mazda’s new BT-50 starts $3,390 upstream of D-Max sibling but has a cheaper ﬂagship

“

The new BT-50 shares all of its underpinnings, including its engine and running gear, with the new Isuzu D-Max.”  CALLUM HUNTER AZDA Australia has revealed the pricing for its all-new BT-50 off-road pick-up truck, with the Isuzu D-Max-based ute due to hit showrooms from October 1 priced from $44,090 plus on-road costs for the XT Dual-Cab Chassis 4x2. That entry price places the new BT-50 more than $3300 upstream of the equivalent D-Max, despite the two sharing the same architecture, underpinnings and powertrain however the Mazda gets its own back at the top of the range, with the flagship GT Dual-Cab 4x4 (automatic) topping out at $59,990 compared to the $62,900 D-Max X-Terrain. The BT-50 range is spread across three trim grades, two body styles and two drive types. The most affordable of the trim levels is XT with prices ranging between $44,090 and $53,260 depending on the body style – dual-cab chassis vs dual-cab pick-up – and drive configuration – 4x2 vs 4x4. Despite being the entry-level trim, Mazda has far from skimped in terms of standard equipment on the XT with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, power-adjustable exterior mirrors, black cloth seat trim, air-conditioning, power windows, carpeted floors, cruise control (automatics score adaptive cruise control with stop and go function), 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple Carplay, USB Android Auto, Bluetooth, DAB+ digital radio and a reversing camera all included as standard while rear-seat occupants also score a USB charging point. Above the XTs are the XTR variants which range from $49,470 to $57,210 depending on body style and drive configuration. Compared to the XT, the XTRs up the ante with 18-inch alloy wheels, power-folding exterior mirrors, self-lev-

elling LED headlights, LED fog lamps, side steps, LED daytime running lights, dual-zone climate control, 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, satellite navigation, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, centre armrest for rear occupants and advanced keyless entry in addition to all of the kit included on the base model. At the top of the BT-50 tree, the GT is available exclusively as a dual-cab pick-up 4x4 with just two variants being offered – manual or automatic. Priced from $56,990, the GT one-ups the XTR with heated chrome exterior mirrors, brown leather upholstery, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, remote engine-start on automatics and front parking sensors.

Standard equipment While the standard equipment list may be generous, it pales in comparison to the list of standard safety gear included on all BT-50s, the same gear that helped the D-Max become the first off-road ute in Australia to achieve a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Eight airbags, anti-lock brakes, attention assist, automatic high beam, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, traction control, dynamic stability control, emergency lane keeping, emergency stop signal, hill descent control, hill launch assist, lane departure warning, lane departure prevention, lane-keep assist (automatic only), rear cross-traffic alert, rollover protection,

secondary collision reduction, speed assist system and turn assist are included as standard on all variants, regardless of trim or body style. As previously reported by GoAuto, the new BT-50 shares all its underpinnings, including its engine and running gear, with the new Isuzu D-Max. This means that it sheds the previous Ford-sourced 3.2-litre turbo-diesel five-cylinder engine in favour of the proven albeit updated 3.0-litre four-cylinder Isuzu unit developing 140kW and 450Nm. Drive is sent to either the rear or all four wheels via either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic, with 4x4 variants scoring a switchable locking rear differential to boost their off-road ability. On the subject of off-road capability, all variants share the same 800mm wading depth while the maximum approach angle is pegged at 30.4 degrees (XTR 4x4/GT). The XT Dual-Cab Chassis 4x4 – marginally – takes the gong for the best rampover angle at 23.9 degrees while the XT Dual-Cab Chassis twins boast the best departure angle of 25.3 degrees. Maximum braked towing capacity is rated at the industry standard 3500kg while payload capacity varies from 1065kg-1106kg depending on the variant. According to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, stock has started arriving at dealerships around the country and the brand is “very excit-

ed to showcase this new Ute to the local market”. “With cutting-edge safety technology, impressive all-terrain performance and a smooth and efficient drivetrain, brand-new BT-50 offers exceptional value across the range, while meeting the demands of the modern customer,” he said. With the new model set and ready to be launched next month, Mazda has sold 1967 4x2 BT-50s and 4914 4x4 units, accounting for 11.9 per cent and 5.1 per cent of their respective segments.

2021 Mazda BT-50 pricing* 4x2 XT Dual Cab Chassis (a)

$44,090

XT Dual Cab Pickup (a)

$45,490

XTR Dual Cab Pickup (a)

$49,470

4x4 XT Dual Cab Chassis

$49,360

XT Dual Cab Chassis (a)

$51,860

XT Dual Cab Pickup

$50,760

XT Dual Cab Pickup (a)

$53,260

XTR Cab Pickup

$54,710

XTR Cab Pickup (a)

$57,210

GT Dual Cab Pickup

$56,990

GT Dual Cab Pickup (a)

$59,990

*Excludes on-road costs

TraveL

September 2020

with DALLAS SHERRINHAM

The Entrance.

Experience some Central Coast magic  SANDIP HOR INCE the end of March this year, I have contained myself in and around my home in South Strathfield – in the Inner West suburb of Sydney, because of the restrictions due to the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. It is not difficult to imagine how frustrating this has been for a person like me with an utterly itchy foot who has travelled to more than 100 countries in six continents and for years had at least

one travel – either overseas or interstate - scheduled every month. So when overdosed with virtual travel, webinars and watch parties, NSW Government’s decision to ease travel within the state came as a welcome relief. Almost straightaway I hit the road not only to see and appreciate how beautiful and charming my own back yard is, but also to boost the crumbling rural tourism economy in my own humble way. I chose the Central Coast region being close to home - within an hour and

a half drive northwards from Sydney. For a few days I explored parts of the picturesque country around Gosford – a modern urban hideout on the Brisbane Water and within close proximity of magnificent national parks, glittering waterways, stunning beaches, lively waterside townships and quite villages. Pacific Motorway (M1) connects Sydney with the Central Coast and the entry point is the famous Hawkesbury River Bridge. The moment I crossed the waterway I sensed a kind of freedom in the lap of unspoilt nature.

This trip was basically shaking hands with nature while sunbathing at an open parklands under the blue sky, rambling along sandy paths of Ettalong Beach and Forresters Beach, bushwalking through the forests of Brisbane Water National Park and watching radiant colors of the sky when sun vanishing into the horizon. Surely this had a soothing effect on my weary mind and soul stressed from the trauma of the current pandemic situation. Continued on page 19

TraveL

September 2020

Pelicans on Parade

Continued from page 18 Another key feature of the trip was viewing spectacular avian species on the water from ducks, geese, swans, darters, cranes, egrets, herons, gulls and storks to giant pelicans who are the famous residents of The Entrance – a resort township set where the sparkling Pacific Ocean meets the calm waters of Tuggerah Lake.

Watching the nation’s largest water birds being fed ceremoniously around 3.30 pm every day is the biggest attraction of this scenic sanctuary. While travelling I was pretty impressed to see the locals and outsiders maintaining social distances and adopting other health safety measures as directed by the government. Similar was the situation at local shops, cafes and restaurants.

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Hope this attitude will help to end the pandemic sooner than later and open doors for more tourism within the state and beyond in coming months.

Fact File Getting There: It’s easy to reach destination by road, driving north from Sydney along Pacific Motorway (M1) and Central Coast Highway (A49) or south from Newcastle. Gosford is 76km from

$60 per person

Sydney and 90km from Newcastle. An alternative is to travel by intercity trains on the Sydney- Newcastle line. Stay: Plenty of staying options throughout the region from luxury resorts and hotels to backpacker hostels and Airbnb accommodations. I stayed at Seabreeze Retreat – an Airbnb nest at Point Clare, not far from Gosford. More info: www.visitnsw.com

HistorY

October 2020

Wisteria Gardens, from glory to neglect

 GARY CARTER YDNEY has only three special Federation Gardens, and Parramatta’s own Wisteria Gardens is one of them. This garden is near the Parramatta River to the north west of Parramatta Park, it has been in operation since 1908. Its yearly garden festival, established in1929, even continued to run through World War 2. In 2020, the Wistaria Gardens, which were established for the Asylum, are 112 years old. It survived demolition plans in 1990 thanks to community actions, and now it is trimmed in size and sitting in limbo because of State disinterest.

This State Heritage Garden and the associated Glengariff Medical Museum are now suffering demolition by neglect. Back in 2017, The State Government decided to hand it over to Parramatta Park Trust, and since then it has fallen into disrepair, and it is still in limbo. This is an extraordinary part of our heritage and we should keep it for future generations. It is in an exceptional parkland setting of botanic significance, which, with Old Government House, the 1820 Female Factory quarter and the 1836 Parramatta Gaol, is one of the richest heritage areas in New South Wales. Laid out in 1907 as the official residence and garden of Dr William Cotter Williamson, the Medical Superintendent

of the then Parramatta Hospital for the Insane. Glengariff House adjacent to the gardens, was designed by the Government Architect, Walter Liberty Vernon, in the “arts and crafts” Federation style. The gardens were originally designed as a “romantic arcadian” landscape with Japanese influences, and they became famous in September for the Wistaria Fete and Garden festival, which had been held since 1929. This tourist attracting festival, which in the past, has had thousands of visitors, has operated through Wars and Depressions, but in the last two years floundered due to the slow transfer of ownership. Currently the upper floor of Glengariff House, which hopefully is included

in the transfer, houses a museum of the history of mental health care in the Cumberland Hospital. Many plantings are now gone, but their foundations do remain and could be restored with proper care and maintenance. Other features which remain are the stunning precision graded/levelled lawns, the wrought iron fencing, the driveway, the stone arch bridge and Glengariff House itself. Gary Carter is a local historian.

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October 2020

Crosswords/Games Solutions page 22

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Fad or frenzy 5. Opportunity, so to speak 9. Infiltrator, perhaps 14. Traveling, say 15. Spoonbills do it 16. Pillow filler 17. Juniors, e.g. 19. Fractious 20. Lumberjackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cry 21. Big beef piece 23. Border duty 25. What tellers do 30. Advent 32. Like a span of oxen 33. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Water Divinerâ&#x20AC;? actor 36. Redressing 38. Communal pronoun 39. Farm hand, at times 40. Call, in Vegas 41. Broadway handouts 44. Updates a blog 46. Get another magazine 47. Weapon for a trooper 49. Frees from doubt 51. Extreme cruelty 54. Checklist bit 56. High beam? 58. Sousaphones 62. Strip of leaves 64. Word with secret or press 65. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So be it!â&#x20AC;? 66. Trap starter 67. Frat letter 68. Indicates yes 69. Grown grigs

Lotus To solve the Lotus Logic puzzle: s %ACH ARC MUST CONTAIN THE NUMBERS n s %ACH RING OF SHADED PETALS MUST CONTAIN THE NUMBERS n s %ACH RING OF WHITE PETALS MUST CONTAIN THE NUMBERS n s .O NUMBER CAN BE REPEATED IN ANY ARC OR RING

DOWN 1. Go on a tirade 2. Expect anon 3. Type of radiation 4. Something to tweeze 5. Overshadows 6. High-quality table wood 7. Coleridge works 8. Pine secretion 9. Became exhausted, with â&#x20AC;&#x153;outâ&#x20AC;? 10. Be a bad witness 11. Campaign creations 12. Trawler attachment 13. Venture 18. Paris flower 22. Library gizmo 24. Savage 26. ___ of hope 27. Out of whack 28. Church dogma 29. A sphere lacks them 31. Breaks the news 33. Coconut product 34. Recreation center posting 35. Grad school grillings 37. Western Colorado sights 39. Bathroom cleaner? 42. â&#x20AC;&#x153;___ donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say!â&#x20AC;? 43. Latte preparer 44. Bicycle 45. Hole in the head 48. Empire builders 50. Chair or car style 52. In need of freshening 53. Mercury, for example 55. Office comm. 57. Pilates count 58. Body image, briefly? 59. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yuckâ&#x20AC;? cousin 60. Quilting social 61. Carpenter at the picnic? 63. Served dinner

Games solutions

October 2020

TrendS

Adaptors take over from disruptors

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE past five years of business life has been dominated by the disruptors but the next decade will be dominated by the adaptors as part of the shakeout from the Pandemic. Businesses that adapt quickly and effectively to the problems and opportunities provided by COVID-19 and the resultant massive changes to Australian life and business will be the winners. Somebody once famously said: “where most people see a problem, I see an opportunity” and it became the creed of the trendy disruptor community worldwide. Now that saying could just as easily be matched to the adaptors as businesses adapt to tremendous changes in the marketplace especially in the marketing and supply of goods and services. Coming up with a great idea and a better way of doing things, or solving a problem, has been the cornerstone of the disruptor market. However, the benefits of adopting disruptor innovations often came at a huge cost for business and didn’t meet the expectations and claims touted by the “genius” involved in the new idea. This is because the idea was built on a shaky foundation and often involved “cost saving” and direct marketing such as Google ads.

In my own field of expertise – tourism editorial and marketing – the rush to disruptors has had tragic consequence for many businesses and public institutions who quickly dumped traditional outlets to be part of the new business trend. What they discovered was a minefield of problems. For starters, disruptors claiming huge followings on social media were buying likes and members. Others dramatically inflated their page views and craftily hid the truth behind their actual following. Marketing gurus in companies thought that by signing up a social media star and getting them to spruik their support for a product or service was the answer to their advertising dreams. It was cheap, it was trendy and it was often tragic. For instance, getting a list of people who want to win a particular prize, is a lot different to building a qualified list of leads who have genuine interest in your product and want to buy it. You can have 200,000 names handed to you, but what is the point if only one person on the list can buy your product or service? Over the next five to 10 years, businesses need to be on their game as far as picking up trends quickly, but also learning to better evaluate what true benefits they can gain from making changes.

COVID-19 is a massive problem, but it is also an opportunity if you treat it that way. Consumers still have money to spend and they will find a way of spending it. You must work out how your business can capture a good part of that market using a combination of new and traditional methods - in other words, adapting. If you are at the crossroads in your business life and the future worries you greatly, here are some ideas to work on:

Rapidly recover revenue. Speed matters: it will not be enough for companies to recover revenues gradually as the crisis abates. They will need to fundamentally rethink their revenue profile, to position themselves for the long term and to get ahead of the competition. To do this companies must SHAPE up. Start-up mindset: This favors action over research and testing over analysis. Establish a brisk cadence to encourage agility and accountability: daily team check-ins, weekly 30-minute CEO reviews, and twice-a-month 60-minute reviews. Human at the core: Companies will need to rethink their operating model based on how their people work best. Purpose-driven customer playbook: Companies need to understand what customers will value, post-COVID-19 and develop new use cases and tailored experiences based on those insights.

Rebuilding operations The coronavirus pandemic has radically changed demand patterns for products and services across sectors, while exposing points of fragility in global supply chains and service networks. At the same time, it has been striking how fast many companies have adapted, creating radical new levels of visibility, agility, productivity and end-customer connectivity. Now leaders are asking themselves: How can we sustain this performance? As operations leaders seek to reinvent the way they work and thus position themselves for the next normal, five themes are emerging.

Rethinking the organization In 2019, a leading retailer was exploring how to launch a curbside-delivery business; the plan stretched over 18 months. When the COVID-19 lockdown hit the United States, it went live in two days. There are many more examples of this kind. “How can we ever tell ourselves that we can’t be faster?” one executive of a consumer company recently asked. Those organizations that are making the shift from closed systems and one-toone transactional relationships to digital platforms and networks of mutually beneficial partnerships have proved more resilient during the crisis. Every business is now a technology business.

AerotropoliS

September 2020

Rezoning will deliver growth, jobs

Artist impression of the developed Western Sydney Airport.

LANDMARK rezoning will see 6,500 hectares of land rezoned to provide for employment, residential and environmental uses in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, setting the State up for a strong economic recovery and paving the way for land to be developed before the first plane takes off in 2026. Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the rezoning of the Aerotropolis Core, Badgerys Creek, Northern Gateway, Agribusiness and Wianamatta-South Creek was the catalyst for the creation of Sydney’s third city centred on a new global airport.

“These first five precincts will deliver much-needed jobs growth to Western Sydney, providing the potential for 100,000 new jobs, as well as homes for 30,000 residents once fully devel-oped,” Mr Stokes said. Mr Stokes added that the Aerotropolis would be supported by the Wianamatta-South Creek pre-cinct, which sets up a central green spine to protect the environment and provide open space for future residents and visitors to enjoy. “This 1,300-hectare precinct will include walking and cycling trails that connect open space along the creek as well as cafes and restaurants.”

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the Aerotropolis will be a major contributor to the 200,000 future jobs that will be created across the Western Parkland City over the next 20 years. “This high-skill jobs hub is set to become the most dynamic economic development precinct in Australia with jobs in aerospace and defence, manufacturing, healthcare, freight and logistics, agribusiness, education and research industries,” Mr Ayres said. “Today’s approval lays the foundations for the transformation of 6,500 hectares of land into a thriving metrop-

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olis with new homes, jobs and public spaces supported by a new, world-class Metro line.” In addition, the Agribusiness precinct will revolutionise local fresh food farming as produce can go from the farm gate to the international consumer plate in 36 hours. The Western Sydney Aerotropolis rezoning is one of 10 projects in the fifth tranche of the NSW Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program. To date, the program has created opportunities for more than 50,000 jobs and almost $25B worth of economic investment.

EntertainmenT

October 2020

Riverside’s Summer Festival for children Jam packed program of film, music and events IVERSIDE Theatres has compiled some of the best children’s entertainment from around the country for its sixth annual Spot On Children’s Festival, presented during the school holidays from September 26. The 2017 program is guaranteed to satisfy children who are bursting with curiosity, and their parents who are dreading finding the answers to endless questions! The jam-packed program of theatre, film, music and free events, will provide a smorgasbord of ideas, knowledge and inspiration to all! Kicking off the program will be stories from the much-loved picture book character by Ted Prior, Grug and the Rainbow from Windmill Theatre Co. Featuring exquisite puppetry and gentle storytelling, this new show has been especially created for the littlest theatregoers (ages one to five) and those who just love Grug. Crowd favourite, The Listies, will return to the Festival with their best-smelling book adapted for the stage, Ickypedia. This seriously silly show answers all of life’s unimportant questions, and mixes clowning, slapstick and improvised chaos with a bucket load of theatrical invention. From Parramatta to China, audiences will embark on a magic journey with narrator and musician, Nicholas Ng. Combining stunning puppets, masks, sword dancing and live music from traditional Chinese instruments, The Descendants of the Dragon will delve into the classic Chinese myth of the dragons that live in the Eastern Ocean. What happens when the sun and moon stay up all night together? The

production Sunny Ray and the Magnificent Moon will attempt to find the answer with a star-spangled theatre rock party to delight audiences, with original music inspired by everything from folk to funk, disco and pop. A visual spectacular will be on offer when Dislocate perform Curiosity, a theatrical collision between the worlds of Circus Oz, Dr Seuss and Alice in Wonderland! With aerial and acrobatic feats including chair balancing, stilts, ladder routines and original song and dance – this is a show not to be missed.

The much-loved Little Wing Puppets returns to Riverside to present the interactive production, A Little Bit of Blue, exploring the world of the iconic Australian Bowerbird through puppetry and clowning. While the gang from the hit ABC Kids television series will present their energetic and fun new show, SplashDance Live – Let’s Bop! featuring songs by the multi award-winning musical maestro, John Field (writer of more than 400 hits for The Wiggles). Once again the Festival will screen a fantastic program of children’s films for the bargain ticket price of $10, including Beauty and the Beast Sing-A-Long, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, The Lego® Batman Movie and anime Wolf Children. The Festival’s program also includes a special screening of a live performance captured for the screen by Australian National Theatre Live, Rumpelstiltskin starring Paul Capsis. Tthe Spot On Children’s Festival continues its dedication to relaxed performances which sees the traditional rules of theatre dismissed to cater for young audiences with anxiety or additional needs; as well as Auslan Interpreted and Audio Described performances, and Autism Spectrum guides. During relaxed performances, the theatre lights will be kept on, children can meet the performers before the

show, and there are no rules on entering or leaving the theatre throughout the performance. Rounding out the bumper Spot On program will be a variety of free activities including a dance-along radio show, Together Time Live! presented by Kinderling Kids Radio, a Courtyard Party with live bands, a reading tent presented by Parramatta Library, balloon twisters, face-painting, craft activities, a play gym, book tent and more. The 2017 Spot On Children’s Festival program is available via the Riverside Theatres website. What: Spot On Children’s Festival Dates: 26th to 30th September Tickets: Single Tickets Free to $26. Discounts available for Riverside Members and Families of 4. From the Box Office (02) 8839 3399 or www.riversideparramatta.com.au Venue: Riverside Theatres – Corner of Church and Market Streets, Parramatta Recommendation: Children aged 1-13 years Full Program: • Grug and the Rainbow – 10am and 12pm on 26 and 27 Sept. • The Listies Ickypedia – 10.30am and 1pm on 26 and 27 Sept. • Beauty and the Beast Sing-a-Long – 10.30am on 26 Sept. • Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul – 4.15pm on 26 Sept. • Rumpelstiltskin – 1.30pm on 26 Sept; 4pm on 30 Sept. • Together Time Live! – 11am on 26 Sept. • Parramatta Library’s Reading Tent – 9.30am to 2pm from 26 – 30 Sept. • Free Activities – 9.30am to 2pm from 26 – 30 Sept. • NIDA Open Spring Holiday Workshop – 10am to 4pm from 26 – 28 Sept. • Descendants of the Dragon – 10.15am and 12.30pm on 27 and 28 Sept. • Sunny Ray and the Magnificent Moon – 2pm on 28 Sept; 10am and 12.15pm on 29 Sept. • Curiosity – 2pm on 28 Sept; 10.30am and 1pm on 29 Sept. • Courtyard Party – 11.30am on 28 and 29 Sept. • A Little Bit of Blue – 10.15am and 12.30pm on 29 and 30 Sept. • SplashDance Live – Let’s Bop! – 10.30am on 30 Sept. • The Lego® Batman Movie – 11am on 30 Sep.t • Wolf Children – 4pm on 30 Sept.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CookinG

October 2020

Coffee from humble beginnings

The popular Coffee Emporium in Phillip St, Parramatta.

ď Ž RED DWYER ROM a former, â&#x20AC;&#x153;tinyâ&#x20AC;? and underperforming coffee shop to outlets across Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; that has been the journey so far of an expanding coffee franchise business born in Bankstown. After tasting his first espresso coffee in East Sydney many decades ago, John Ayoub always wanted to launch his own brand of espresso and to open a coffee house with the blend, after working his way up to a master barista trainer at a major coffee company His search took him to a small, unpretentious 11-year-old coffee shop in Bankstown known as The Coffee Emporium which he bought in 2002.and

described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;a little run downâ&#x20AC;?. There he launched the Nonno blend, made from a selection of quality coffee beans from Central and South America, and African regions, and which has since become their award-winning house blend. Initially, gaining acceptance for an unknown coffee brand operating out of a small shop in a south-west Sydney suburb, was a hard grind (forgive the pun) but it won a loyal group of enthusiasts, and so the business grew. On becoming partners in 2005 with his cousin, Sam Ayoub, who had experience in franchising, the pair has since opened outlets across Australia and headquarted the business in Parramatta.

Located in: Newington Marketplace Newington Marketplace, 6 Ave of Europe, Newington NSW 2127

The Coffee Emporiumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship two-storey premises in Phillip Street (opposite the Parkroyal) houses the head office and training centre. It also houses their flagship coffee house, The Coffee Emporium Restaurant & Bar. The Coffee Emporium Restaurant & Bar. This unique location offers a cafĂŠ experience by day, and transforms into a restaurant and wine bar by night, serving up an exquisite Australian cuisine with a nostalgic European feel. With 38 successful coffee houses across Australia and now exploring international markets. This Australian success story is looking to continue to build and enhance its famous brand using the help of only the best franchise partners the world has to offer.

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ExpertS

September 2020

OFFICE TECHNOLOGY

Is it time to consider losing YOUR PHYSICAL OFFICE?  DARRYL MCALLISTER HERE are a number of challenges facing Australian businesses due to the pandemic when it comes to returning to a physical office space. There’s the consideration of how to keep employees safe by implementing distancing, mask policies, and cleaning rules. There’s also just trying to keep costs low while recovering from any revenue losses due to the pandemic. Those challenges, along with the realization that it is possible to run businesses remotely using the right technology solutions, have many business owners contemplating going completely virtual and losing their physical office altogether. It’s estimated that post-pandemic, nearly 50% of the workforce will be working remotely from home. So, for a business that doesn’t need to have a physical location for retail or manufacturing, paying for rent and utilities for an office space makes a lot less sense than it may have in the past.

Technology Vital to Powering a Virtual Office Before the pandemic started, the average commercial office space in NSW rented for between $485 to $1,025per metre per year. So, for a 50m2 office space (not including furniture, utilities, etc.) a company would be paying between $2,021 to $4,271 per month. That’s a significant saving if you put the right technology in place to run your office virtually and have all employees working from home. Here are the vital pieces of cloud infrastructure you need to put in place to make the transition successfully:

“

It’s estimated that post-pandemic,nearly 50% of the workforce will be working remotely from home. So, for a business that doesn’t need to have a physical location for retail or manufacturing, paying for rent and utilities for an office space makes a lot less sense than it may have in the past.” - Darryl McAllister.

#1 Cloud-Based Phone System If you haven’t already, you need to replace your legacy phone system with a VoIP system. We recommend 3CX for a full-featured, cost-effective solution. A cloud-based phone system is often the reason that many people may liaise with a business for years and never realize they don’t have a physical office. VoIP systems give your business a level of professionalism by having enterprise-class features like dial-by-name directory and auto attendant. VoIP phones can be answered anywhere - for instance, via a mobile phone app - so all employees will have access to your phone system just as they did at the office. They’ll also be able to seamlessly transfer calls, use voicemail, and call out to any landline, mobile, or VoIP number.

#2 Microsoft Teams for Video & Team Collaboration One of the most important things you need to have in place is a way for employees to continue to interact and connect as easily as they did when located in the same building. Microsoft Teams is like an office in the cloud. It’s a connection point, where people can access others in their organization, interface with their specific departments, and connect with clients. Features of Teams include: • Video or audio meetings • Channelled communications (which can be set up by department) • File sharing and collaboration

• Alerts and @mentions (a virtual tap on the shoulder) • Status messages (let everyone know when you’re at lunch) • Launching point for a team’s workflow (files, apps, websites, etc.) Another important capability includes the data security features in Teams.

#3 Streamlined Productivity Platform It’s important to streamline your use of the cloud as much as possible when running your office virtually. You don’t want to end up with a bunch of apps from different vendors that don’t integrate or share data easily. Microsoft 365 is a perfect productivity platform for virtual offices because it offers all the main tools an office needs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), plus includes an entire stable of collaboration efficient tools, such as: • SharePoint • Teams • OneDrive (personal storage) • Planner (simple project management) • Stream (internal video publishing, like YouTube) • To-Do (shared task list) • And more

machines. It’s important to have a centralized cloud storage platform that will accomplish two main objectives. • Keep all your files together in one place so you can secure them • Make it easy for your team to access the files they need OneDrive file storage is another reason Microsoft 365 is such a value-added platform. OneDrive is included and each user has their own 1TB of space for storing company files in the cloud.

#5 Security-First Managed IT Support

#4 Centralized Cloud File Storage

The provision of IT services from an external provider that places security first can ensure that employee devices are secure and well maintained even if they’re being used in different physical locations. Technology and business are now intertwined and for your business to run well, your technology needs to be running securely and efficiently. Via our NetCare Technology Success process, our world-class service delivery team are there whenever an employee needs help and to ensure your technology continues to power your virtual business effectively and stays protected from any security intrusions. If you’ve been contemplating moving to a fully remote office, Netcare can help you put the foundation in place for a successful transition.

When you have employees working from different locations, you don’t want to lose control over all your work files by having them stored locally on different

Darryl McAllister is CEO atNetcare. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call (02) 9114 9920 or reach out online. www.netcare.net.au

ExpertS

September 2020

TURNAROUND

Treasury announces changes to small business insolvency reform  SCHON G CONDON RFD S we all know a significant number of small businesses in Australia are suffering significantly as a result of the current COVID 19 restrictions. Many of these have simply closed never to return, while others slog it out in the hope that all will improve. It is a fact; Australia has now entered a recession as a result of this and the Government is looking at a number of ways and means to assist small businesses so as to avoid the potentially impending financial cliff. To date this has been in the form of the relaxation of insolvent trading laws, job keeper and changes to the statutory demand and winding up processes that prevent others from pushing businesses over the edge. Nonetheless there are still many businesses out there that just may not survive the long hall, particularly if there is no significant effort to get Government and large Corporates “back in the office”. The Federal Government is now proposing a new form of insolvency process that is intended to assist small businesses restructure their affairs without impacting on their operations or possibly draining what value currently remains in the business. The real questions being

asked by most are ‘how will it work?’ and ‘will it actually help me?’ Too many businesses that I have spoken to this is not a today issue, only because the more important thing businesses currently want to know is when will we start getting closer to being back to normal? This is fortunate as regrettably at this time there is scant detail on exactly how this process will work and who will be able to make it happen. Like much legislative change, the devil will be in the detail. To date the Government has issued a fact sheet on the proposed reforms, however the fact sheet raises potentially more issues than it seeks to solve. The information released to date makes it clear that it will depend on the final legislation which is expected to be in draft soon and made available to relevant bodies for comment. With a desire to have it operational by 1st January 2021, its implementation will be meteoric! The new process is being proposed for businesses that have liabilities of less than $1,000,000. Along with this limit, the proposal sets out a Debtor in possession model. That is put another way, the possibility that the director who may have created the problem remain in control of the process. In Australia, historically it

is those that are owed money that are in control rather than the one that owes. As part of the changes, the idea is for the directors of the company to work with a practitioner over a period of 20 business days to formulate a restructuring plan. This plan is then given to the creditors to consider and a vote held. If 50 percent of the Creditors accept, then all Creditors are bound by the plan and any personal guarantees may not be able to be relied upon.

This is an extremely significant change that will impact a lot of business owners in trying to collect debts they are owed and could end up making currently solvent businesses insolvent! For now, one might want to give serious thought to whom they are lending money, and for how long?

Schon Condon is principal at Condon Advisory Group at Parramatta.

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RETAL MANAGER - OP SHOPPPORTUNITY This is an exceptional and rare opportunity for a candidate with good generalist retail experience to take the next step in their career, or utilize their existing skills and experience, while at the same time contributing to our wonderful community. Our successful candidate will likely have several years retail experience and some level of exposure to a supervisor or manager role. They will also have an enthusiastic, “hands on” approach to work, combined with exceptional customer service skills and the ability to motivate a small team of staff and volunteers. This is a busy and diverse role, so you’ll be involved in overseeing day-today operations, merchandising, cash management/reconciliations, customer service, recruitment and training of staff and volunteers, thinking of creative ways to increase donations and sales (in our Katoomba op shop and also online), rostering, general admin and more. In addition to the personal attributes, skills and experience highlighted above, our successful candidate will ideally have: • POS experience (preferably Kounta). • Computer skills (MS Office Suite.) • Driver’s licence.

• Strong communication skills required. • Manage multiple tasks at one time and prioritise according to workload. • Strong Mental Health intereﬆ.

About the Hospital: This is a great opportunity to “make your mark” in an independent role that reports to the General Manager, while building your career or making the most of your existing skills and experience and contributing to the community. Though the role is 5 days per week, our store operates 7 days per week, so some Saturday work will be required. Remuneration will be in the range $45-$50kpa + applicable penalties + superannuation and a signiﬁcant tax-free component as a result of our charity status . A copy of the full position description is available at: www.cancersupport.org.au/jobs Please submit your resume/CV together with a cover letter that convinces us that you’re our ideal candidate! It is best to apply via the following link, https://bit.ly/3aL5Wak This recruitment is being managed by HR Success on behalf of Cancer Wellness Support. No agencies please.

MEDIA SALES ROLE The Parramatta Times is Parramatta’s newest local newspaper distributed throughout the LGA every fortnight and available in hard copy and digital formats. The Parramatta Times is a sister publication to the ACCESS Business titles and a stable of specialist online digital media channels. We seek a motivated salesperson who can: • Undertake sales of our newspaper and digital media products. • Develop and maintain ﬆrategic relationships across diverse communities. • Maintain the higheﬆ level of cuﬆomer service and accountability. • Be equally proﬁcient at closing deals face-to-face or on the phone. • Work comfortably in a deadline driven environment.

Knowledge and skills • Strong liﬆening skills and interpersonal skills.

At The Hills Clinic we specialise in providing high quality mental health care with positive patient outcomes. We are a 85 bed stand-alone Mental Health service. Our team of Psychiatrists, Nursing and Allied Health professionals provide expert care to manage and treat a wide range of mental health disorders including specialised Young Adults & specialised Addictions. We oﬀer a holistic approach with treatment provided in a safe, supportive environment for inpatients, day patients and outpatients. Our evidence-based treatment, comfortable facilities, and skilled and experienced staﬀ enhance the quality of care and health outcomes for our patients.

About the Role: • Deliver quality, eﬃcient and eﬀective person-centred care which meets the needs of the patients and their families or carers • Gain an understanding of the design and philosophy of the department to which allocated and awareness of interdepartmental relationships within the hospital.

• Liaise with the Medical Oﬃcers and allied health care professionals regarding patient management, in accordance with level of expertise. • Act as an advocate to assist patients and their families / carers make informed decisions. • Make appropriate referrals to support patients requirements on discharge.

Selection Criteria: • Demonstrated ability in de-escalation techniques, crisis management interventions • Comprehensive mental health experience, or a strong interest in same • Excellent communication (both written and verbal) and interpersonal skills • Analytical skills to assess and evaluate health information to provide quality patient care • AIN’s must be studying undergraduate Bachelor of Nursing To apply please send a cover letter and resume to: marlene.mailei@healthecare.com.au Due to the large number of applications received, only those advancing to a shortlist will be contacted.

Childcare – Castle Hill • Ability to prioritise and execute sales plans. • Ability to work unsupervised and act faﬆ on opportunities. • Experience in media sales or a demonﬆrable underﬆanding of media processes and products, including digital.

The role The Parramatta Times works under a remote structure so you will be expected to work from a home office with regular phone and face-to-face support. Hours are flexible and can be part- time, depended on your circumstances. Remuneration is by way of retainer plus commission. Send details of relevant experience with a cover letter to michael@parramattatimes.com.au For a confidential discussion phone Michael Walls: 0407 783 413.

Building Inspector – Baulkham Hills Phoenix Building Approvals A Building Certiﬁcation and Building Code Consulting Company based in The Hills area has a position available for an experienced Building Inspector. The successful applicant must: • hold a current building inspector regiﬆration. (Formerly A4 accreditation) • have a valid driver’s licence • provide evidence of relevant experience • be computer literate, in particular with BCS (Building Certiﬁcation Software)

RN’s, EEN’s & AIN’s – Kellyville – The Hills Clinic

Salary to be negotiated. Please send your CV to juliana@ phoenixbuildingapprovals.com.au

Dashing Ducks Pre-School Are you are looking for an opportunity to lead a team as an Educational Leader? Do you have a sound knowledge of NQF and NQS? If so then this is the job for you. We are looking for a committed, mature, candidate who can take initiative and be highly eﬀective in a team setting. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and most importantly exhibit a warm and caring nature, with a genuine interest for the welfare and development of children. You will be working with children aged 6 months to 5 years alongside a

dedicated team that is highly experienced, enthusiastic and above all genuinely care about children and their development. You will have the support of a leadership group to help further your knowledge and experience in the childcare sector. Please register your interest by emailing Candice to admin@dashingducks.com.au or call 02 8677 7931. We look forward to working with you.

Apprentice Cabinet Maker Joiner and Qualified Cabinet Maker – Glenorie Apprentice Cabinet Maker/Joiner Would you like a trade for your future! School leavers encouraged to apply. Two (2) apprentices for immediate start. An interesting and rewarding trade including manufacturing, assembling, installation of kitchens, bathrooms & renovations also varied Commercial works and travelling to various onsite locations. Prefer applicants that reside in the Hills areas or within in a one hours drive and have own reliable transport. Wages will be paid above the award and by negotiations with the employer.

Qualified Cabinet Maker We are seeking qualiﬁed Cabinet maker seeking a PERMANENT position.

The applicant will be experienced in most forms of cabinetry and also onsite installation experience an advantage Wages by Negotiation ABOVE award and commensurate with experience For more details, forward your resume to glencameron10@gmail.com or Phone 0425 342 624.

October 2020

APARTMENTS STARTING FROM

$555,000

The Royce

FINAL STAGE NOW SELLING FIRST IN, FIRST CHOICE Experience the height of luxury retirement living at The Royce. Our brand-new 1, 2 and 3-BR apartments are now open and can be yours to call home from October 2020. • Large, light-filled floorplans with high-quality finishes. • Featuring designer kitchens, high-ceilings, plus spacious balcony and alfresco areas with spectacular mountain views from selected apartments. • On-site concierge, handyman services and so much more. • Delicious, homemade meals and sweet treats prepared by celebrity chef, Ross Dobson at Café Royce. Retire your way at The Royce. These limited designer apartments are selling fast and won’t last long. Don’t miss out! First in, First Choice.

BOOK YOUR PERSONALISED VIP TOUR TODAY! Find out why so many have made the choice to live at The Royce. Please call us to book a VIP tour that’s tailored just for you CALL 02 4744 6000 OR VISIT THEROYCE.COM.AU

BusinesS

October 2020

The great COVID business purge Dispelling myths around established VS start-ups ď Ž DALLAS SHERRINGHAM he Great Business Purge is coming to an organization like yours and new research reveals well-established businesses are likely to go down with start-ups. We have already seen the demise of dozens of long established newspapers and retail outlets as the Purge hits the most vulnerable businesses. This shows that the Purge has no respect for tradition. Despite a wide-held perception that businesses have a better chance of survival after the five-year mark, new research indicates that established businesses will not be insulated from the coming economic carnage. However, they are more likely to have the funds to exit comfortably or re-create their business model, given that more than half do not experience cash flow problems and at least 20 per cent turn over significant profit. The findings come from a survey of an independent panel of 261 Australian business owners commissioned by Money. com.au, an online financial information platform for businesses and consumers. The survey did not cement the common belief that business financial security grows with time. In the survey, 61% of established business owners whose businesses have been in operation for at least five years said they are at a stage where they are paying themselves comfortably. This is just slightly better than the 56% of owners of businesses younger than five-years-old who said the same. Money.com.au also found that established and young businesses are on an even playing field when it comes to their ability to project profits: 58% of established businesses and 49% of young businesses can forecast their profits over the next 12 months with reasonable accuracy.

The survey also reveals a similar proportion of businesses said they experienced significant ups and downs in revenue, with 34% of young businesses and 35% of established businesses saying their revenue differed significantly between months. While the overall survey indicates that all businesses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; regardless of age â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are in the same vulnerable financial position, there is a silver lining for established businesses. More than half do not experience cash flow problems â&#x20AC;&#x201C; indicating that they may have a good buffer if they decide to fund their business with their savings. In contrast, two-thirds of young businesses admit they experience cash flow issues. Fourteen per cent say the issue is serious. A higher proportion of established businesses also turn over higher profits: 20% make more than 30% profit on revenue, compared with half the amount of young businesses who make the same level of profit. Licensed financial advisor and Money. com.au spokesperson Helen Baker said the one advantage established businesses had over young ones was time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As they have been around for some years, they have developed long-standing relationships with clients or customers, and better understand their product or service. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are also in a better position to know how loyal customers are to them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which helps them make forecasts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and understand how they sit in relation to their competitors,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In turn, this helps a business better manage cash flow. With Australia having teetered on a recession the last few years, some established businesses got their finances in order early on, so they have had more time to create a buffer. Maintaining positive cash flow and having a flexible balance sheet can help businesses respond quickly during a downturn.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Experiencing financial challenges when running a business is inevitable. Now more than ever, SMEs need ongoing support â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly those in their first decade of business. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Government has introduced new loans â&#x20AC;&#x201C; under the RBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facility of low-rate loans â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to help businesses during the pandemic and online finance platforms such as Money.com.au help businesses of all sizes secure loans. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I encourage business owners to research and review what schemes can help them get ahead. If they are in the three-tofive-year stage of their business â&#x20AC;&#x201C; normally when expansion commences â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and are feeling reasonably confident, the grants can help them grow. For others, financial assistance could keep them afloat,â&#x20AC;? she said.

employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; income. If a business isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t required to withhold tax, they will receive the minimum $20,000. 3. Instant asset write-off scheme. The instant asset write-off allows businesses turning over less than $500m million to immediately deduct capital purchases of up to $150,000 from their tax until December 31. From January 1, the scheme will only be available to small businesses with a turnover of less than $10m, with a $1000 threshold on assets. 4. JobTrainer skills package. To keep apprentices and trainees in jobs, businesses with less than 199 employers can apply for a wage subsidy of 50% of their eligible employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income until March 31. It is also available for new employers who re-hire apprentices and trainees who were let go during the pandemic. 5. State-specific Government business support package. Each State offers a separate package, so business owners are encouraged to find out what is available to them. In Victoria, the Government Business Support Package includes cash grants, mental health support for business owners, and relief for tourism operators. Specifically, the Business Support Fund-Expansion provides a one-off $10,000 grant for businesses in metro Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire and $5000 for businesses in regional local Government areas.

Business grants available Money.com.au highlights five Government grants and support measures for businesses: 1. Coronavirus Small and Medium Enterprises Guarantee Scheme. The Government is guaranteeing 50% of new unsecured loans of up to $250,000 by eligible lenders to SMEs, sole traders and not-for-profits. Stage one of the scheme is available until September 30, with phase two commencing October 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which will see both secure and unsecured loans become available, up to a maximum of $1m. 2. Cash flow boost. Not-for-profits and small businesses with a turnover of less than $50m will receive a tax credit from the Government between $20,000 and $100,000 to help retain staff and continue operating. Payments will be equal to 100% of the tax businesses withhold from their

The full survey results, including breakdowns across organisation size, location and years in operation, can be found here: money.com.au/financial-security-study

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October 2020

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Eelectricity is charging Parramatta A different season, new ball game T’S finals time and footy fever is sweeping the Parramatta community. You can feel the ‘’eelectricity’’ as Parramatta start their 2020 NRL finals campaign against Melbourne on Saturday, October 3, versus the Melbourne Storm, at Suncorp Stadium Brisbane, at 7.50pm. The third placed Eels tackle second placed Melbourne, with the winner granted a week off and a berth into the grand final qualifier in a fortnight’s time. Under the NRL top 8 format, teams which finish in the top four, get two chances. They cannot be eliminated in the opening week of the finals. Eels coach Brad Arthur has steered his team to back-to-back finals series. The first 12 weeks of this year’s 20 round competition, Arthur’s men played with soldier-like precision and fluency. The past eight weeks, their form has been up and down, it is fair to say. Ironically, it was the Storm which ended their 2019 finals run thumping them 32-0 nil at AAMI Park in September, 2019. But now it’s a different scenario. A different season, new ball game. The Eels, while their form the past month hasn’t been scintillating, a grafting win over Wests Tigers last Saturday night at Bankwest Stadium, secured third spot. Skilled halfback Mitchell Moses, inspirational fullback and skipper Clint Gutherson, one of the real stars of the NRL this year, together, with a robust and powerful pack of forwards, led by energetic and aggressive lock Nathan Brown, head to Brisbane on Saturday night , and control their own destiny. A loss will see the Eels play the winner of the elimination final between Souths and Newcastle, in week two of the finals, on the weekend of October 9-10-11, perhaps at Bankwest Stadium, as the highest ranked loser in week one of the finals, gets to host a home final under the NRL rules. Victory for the Eels grants them a week off, and then just one win from a grand final. For Eels footy fantatics, it’s time to ‘’bring it on.’’

Match kick-off on Saturday night is 7.40pm.

The Eels in action against the Tigers last week.

L BUSINE A C

2020 2 020

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Parramatta Times - Edition 2, October 2020

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