Parramatta Times - October 2021

ISSUE 15 | OCTOBER 2021

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

WWW.PARRAMATTATIMES.COM.AU

ParramattA T I M E S What it might look like to have flying cars over Parramatta CBD.

INSIDE

CARS OVER CBD

Key to business relationships: 7

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AN you imagine cars flying above the Parramatta CBD? Parramatta Chamber of Commerce president Luke Magee can certainly see it as a possibility after the Parramatta Times discussed a report from University of NSW suggesting the concept was not far away. “I hope it can be something we can look forward to in the future. It would be good for Parramatta, with its lack of parking,” Mr Magee said.

“These flying cars could work like the proposed driverless cars where you park them outside the city and they come to pick you up." More page 12.

NG I M COSOON

Bankwest becomes CommBank Stadium: 13

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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Bob passes baton to Steven OB Dwyer, the Lord Mayor who gave Parramatta a high media profile through his commitment and promotion of the Central City over the past two years, has been replaced by fellow Liberal Steven Issa. While council elections are on December 4, the State Government still directed councils with chamber-elected mayors to hold mayoral elections in September. Many councils, including Cumberland, decided to continue with their present mayors

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“

I could not do my job as councillor, let alone lord mayor, without the support of Jasmine.”

Parramatta Square.

– Steven Issa.  LOCAL POLITICS | DI BARTOK ARRAMATTA’s new Lord Mayor Steven Issa has hit the ground running after his election to the top job on September 27.

After all, there is not much time for him to leave some sort of mark on the city, with the December 4 council elections looming.

While council goes into caretaker mode on November 4, that does not faze Cr Issa, who is proud to be in the position his father Tony held 2008 to 2009.

“As NSW starts to re-open (after COVID lockdowns), I will be helping to steer Parramatta through that,” Cr Issa told the Parramatta Times.

“And there is the continuing development of Parramatta Square, the light rail, the Metro, the Powerhouse.

“But it is not only about the CBD. We have to look at life in the suburbs, with upgraded parks and facilities.”

One of his main priorities is to see that Parramatta gets a fair chunk of the $5B WestInvest money the State Government has promised the West and Southwest for post-COVID recovery. See separate story page 5.

Cr Issa is expected to take on the job seamlessly, given his commitment to his councillor role since being elected for the Liberal team in Rosehill ward in 2017.

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Incoming Lord Mayor, Steven Issa.

Outgoing Lord Mayor, Bob Dwyer.

The young councillor has headed council’s Smart City Committee, steering technology in the city as well as being council’s representative on the Central City Planning Panel.

He will take leave from his executive job with a digital health agency, with the backing of his “rock”, wife Jasmine and his three young children.

“I could not do my job as councillor, let alone lord mayor, without the support of Jasmine,” Cr Issa said.

All that being as it may, Cr Issa may not have the top job after the December 4 election, even though he has a good chance of being on the new council.

With all the in-fighting in the local branches of the Liberal Party–too complex to explain in this story–Liberal candidates will not be chosen for the election in Parra-

matta until about October 26.

Sources have told the Times that the Liberals could have only five instead of the present six councillors in the new council, throwing the balance of power more

Proud of his achievements Labor’s way, with the help of independents and the Greens.

Therefore, Labor’s Pierre Esber, who has been on council for 22 years, may have his chance as being lord mayor after December 4 A moderate, Cr Esber has often given support to the outgoing Liberal lord mayor Bob Dwyer and is more pro-development than his Labor colleagues.

But the Dundas wardsman is still very much rooted in the suburbs, reminding the new lord mayor on election night that

Parramatta was “more than just the CBD”.

Deputy Lord Mayor, Michelle Garrard, from the Our Local Community party, was re-elected to her position.

While other councils, including neighbouring Cumberland, are continuing with their sitting mayors for the rest of the council term, Parramatta chose to have a short-term lord mayor–once again, due to internal wranglings in the Liberal Party.

Outgoing Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer had hoped to continue his role up to December 4 but accepted his fate.

Cr Dwyer ruffled Liberal feathers with his outspoken views of the behaviour of some of his colleagues on council.

But he is proud of what he achieved during his two-year term, particularly the development of Parramatta Square, In an emotional mayoral minute delivered at his last meeting as Lord Mayor, Cr Dwyer thanked staff, led by CEO Brett Newman, and fellow councillors for working with him in achieving the best for the city.

“I am immensely proud to have played a part in the ongoing transformation of our city, particularly in a time where we experienced one of the toughest periods our community has ever faced as we keenly felt the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic,” Cr Dwyer said.

Councillors from both sides thanked Cr Dwyer for his hard work.

He will not contest the December election.

The 70-year-old, who has been on council since 1995, will return to his migration business but will also dedicate more time to family after December.

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

Project to keep cats at home

ISSUE 15 | OCTOBER 2021 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.

Digital edition Each edition of The Parramatta Times can be viewed and downloaded in digital format at our ISSUU platform: www.issuu/communitybroadcastnetwork

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

Newsroom News 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

Advertising sales Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au

Administration Rebecca Swaleh info@parramattatimes.com.au

Design and production Design2Pro, Words and Pixels.

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

Our Broadcast Partner www.netwerx.tv – NETWERX is a broadcast hub that hosts and creates videos of public interest and commercial benefit.

NEW initiative to help curb the toll on native wildlife caused by domestic cats across Parramatta has been announced by Environment Minister Matt Kean.

“The Keeping Cats Safe at Home program will help protect our unique wildlife, with domestic cats estimated to kill around 67 million native mammals, 83 million native reptiles and 80 million native birds in Australia each year,” Mr Kean said.

“We all love living close to bushland and even though we love our pets, we know native species and domestic cats don’t co-exist well, so we need to make sure our native wildlife is protected.

Under the new initiative, RSPCA NSW will engage 10 urban and regional councils across the state, providing education and

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advice for communities on the importance of containing their cats safely at home, including Parramatta.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said all pet owners need to be made aware of best practice when it comes to keeping animals and native wildlife safe.

“Local councils have an important part to play in looking after their communities, including creatures big and small, as well as reinforcing responsible pet ownership,” Mrs Hancock said.

“This new program will be tailored to each council’s needs, so they can customise the best plan to suit their community and protect our precious native wildlife.”

The project will engage council representatives, veterinarians, companion

animal groups, cat owners, the general community and wildlife groups in each council area.

Additionally, school curriculum-linked resources will be developed.

RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman said the four-year project was designed to change attitudes and behaviours in the community towards responsible cat ownership.

Cats are instinctive killers and incredibly efficient predators who will hunt even when they are well-fed at home. Each roaming pet cat in Australia is estimated to kill on average 115 native prey animals each year, including mammals, birds and reptiles.

The program is supported by a $2.5M grant from the Environmental Trust.

INDEX News ...................................3 Chamber .............................7 Geoff Lee ..........................10 Cover story .......................12 Property ............................13

CMRC ...............................16 Fitness ..............................17 Games ..............................18 Travel ................................20 Auto .................................. 22

Films .................................24 Directory ...........................28 Trends ...............................30 Sport .................................31

Local entertainment during LOCKDOWN Watch locally made films. Stay up to date on infrastructure.

Watch profiles of regional leaders. www.netwerx.tv

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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$5B Westinvest fund for future NEW $5B investment by the NSW Government has been designed to secure a brighter future for western and south-western Sydney families and residents, helping build new and improved facilities and local infrastructure to help communities hit

by COVID-19.

The Government said the WestInvest Fund would focus on projects that make a real difference to quality of life, help create jobs in the process, and change the face of Western Sydney for the better.

“The future of Western Sydney is bright and this announcement is a major first step along the road to recovery after a challenging year,” NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said.

“This is about helping to rejuvenate local communities with improved parks, better open spaces, giving town centres a boost and providing opportunities to grow.”

The unprecedented boost was made possible by the State’s strong financial management and asset recycling strategy,

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with the NSW Government announcing the sale of its residual 49 per cent stake in WestConnex for $11.1B. The new WestInvest Fund will allocate $3B for future projects across six areas: • Parks, urban spaces and green space; • Enhancing community infra-

structure such as local sporting grounds; • Modernising local schools; • Creating and enhancing arts and cultural facilities; • Revitalising high-streets; • Clearing local traffic.

The remaining $2B will be reserved for

high priority projects to be developed in consultation with local communities.

Mr Perrottet said the local infrastructure and facilities drive would create jobs at a critical time, as NSW begins its economic recovery from the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Western and south-western Sydney is an economic powerhouse, but first and foremost there must be places where families can have a great quality of life – that’s what this investment will achieve,” Mr Perrottet said.

“No matter where you live, we want people to love living locally, and this investment will deliver better local facilities, open spaces and convenient services all close to home.

“This investment is just the first stage of our economic recovery strategy which the Government is currently developing for release in October.”

Minister for Jobs, Investment and Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the funding injection would be a game-changer and a catalyst for growth.

We’re not down-sizing, we’re up-living.

Parramatta Light Rail – Stage 2 On behalf of Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), RPS is seeking to identify Aboriginal people or groups who may hold cultural knowledge UHOHYDQW WR GHWHUPLQLQJ WKH VLJQLƓFDQFH RI $ERULJLQDO REMHFWV DQG RU SODFHV ZLWKLQ WKH SURMHFW DUHD IRU 6WDJH RI 3DUUDPDWWD /LJKW 5DLO

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Enquire today. call 1800 864 846 or visit uniting.org/parkmeadows

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ParramattA ChambeR

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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Business relationships are a dynamic mix  ENGAGEMENT | LUKE MAGEE HE past few years have taught us many lessons but none truer than the value of relationships in business.

Chambers of Commerce have worked hard to find a voice, driven by a desire to effectively represent the interests of the business community. More than ever, people are looking to their local Chambers to cut through the noise, and to have access to business leaders and government bodies.

There is a real sense of power in breaking down the barriers to find place and purpose and there is even more reward when it comes from good intentions.

The past few years have taught us the significance of looking after each other and the opportunities that come as a result.

Parramatta Chamber has never been consumed with winning the race by having the most members in its base. It has always prided itself on member engagement and the powerful connections driven by its members through networking events and platforms.

It has always been about the people, not the process. It has always been about the purpose, the values and the enjoyment that comes with building strong business relationship with likeminded people that share the same foundations of trust and goodwill.

Parramatta Chamber prides itself on its transparency and determination to promote and foster a bubbling business community that is proud to stand united when it counts.

The question is often asked about our audience and whether it remains more SME or is the Chamber made up of the big players in town. The answer is simple, it’s a dynamic mix.

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Chamber members at a recent Business After 5.: networking is an integral part of building business relationships.

CommBank has been a long-standing member of Parramatta Chamber and a fundamental enabler of our flagship platform, Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence (WSABE), as Principal Partner for well over a decade.

Commitment to the region CommBank recently announced a $120,000 investment to help small businesses in the 12 Western Sydney Local Government Areas to target and profile marketing activities as the region comes out of lockdown in the lead up to Christmas.

This showcases Commonwealth Bank’s commitment to the Greater Western Sydney region.

Parramatta Chamber of Commerce through the Chamber Alliance of Western

COVID-19 Complimentary IR Assistance

Sydney - is proud to be leading the campaign which is welcomed and represented by all Chambers of Commerce hardest hit. We thank CommBank for supporting businesses in the region and putting a spotlight on these LGA hotspots which are the economic engine room of Sydney!

A steering committee has been set up with a key representative from these LGA’s to ensure that the unique flavours of each of the communities is captured.

Stay tuned! BACK to BUSINESS is a collective marketing campaign which is aimed to support local businesses that have been hardest hit with lockdowns and foster a strong sense of community support and spirit through promotion and collaboration.

Featured in this campaign will be: Bayside, Blacktown, Burwood, Campbelltown, Canterbury/Bankstown, Merrylands/

Greater Cumberland, Fairfield, Georges River, Liverpool, Parramatta, Strathfield and Penrith.

The campaign is also an opportunity to utilise and support local suppliers deliver the campaign.

In the process, it will further build awareness of local Chambers in the Greater Western Sydney areas as effective connectors to business communities and customers.

The campaign will also strengthen the relationships across the Western and Southwest regions and is a great example of the power of relationships in our business communities.

Luke Magee is President of Parramatta Chamber of Commerce. Visit: www.parramattachamber.com.au PAGE 13: Bankwest to become CommBank Stadium

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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New headquarters for Parramatta Council ITY of Parramatta Council will soon have a new administrative headquarters following the recent purchase of an office building in the heart of the growing Parramatta CBD. Strategically located near the $2.7B Parramatta Square and soon-to-come Parramatta Light Rail route, the seven-storey building at 9 Wentworth Street will be home to Council’s corporate services, Customer Contact Centre, and Councillor and Lord Mayor’s offices.

“With major projects such as Parramatta Square, Powerhouse Parramatta, Sydney Metro West and the Parramatta Light Rail transforming our City, Council needed an office space that would serve our organisation and community well into the future,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said.

“Parramatta boasts some of the best commercial office space in the country, and the CBD is already a key centre for a

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Council's new headquaters.

range of leading corporations, along with numerous State and Federal Government departments. It is important to us that

Council continues to be part of this great mix.”

Council purchased the building for

$64M following a thorough procurement process. The building has 7,650 square metres of office space, a 5.0-star NABERS Energy rating, and basement parking.

Council’s administration facilities, which will be relocated from 126 Church Street to 9 Wentworth Street in 2023, will occupy part of the building, with the remainder being leased.

“This acquisition is a strategic investment in the future of our community and the delivery of Council services. It allows us to eliminate our existing rental obligations and take advantage of the capital appreciation that will come with owning our own building,” City of Parramatta CEO Brett Newman said.

“As is the case across many workplaces, the pandemic has changed the way we work and the new building will offer a mixture of activity-based and flexible-working environments to improve staff communication, collaboration and interaction.”

It's important to keep smiling OOKING after your dental health is vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to HCF dental expert Dr Chris Ho. As the Dentist in Charge at HCF, Dr Ho works across their network of Centres, including Parramatta.

And while the Parramatta centre is currently only open for urgent or emergency appointments during the lockdown, he provided some key tips on how we can all keep on smiling with confidence and keep ourselves healthy at the same time.

Dr Ho said it was more important than ever that people put extra thought to their

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oral health in these uncertain times.

“During lockdown a lot of our daily life has changed, but one thing you can control is your dental health,” Dr Ho said.

HCF has just released the findings of a survey that’s revealed half of Australians admit to skipping brushing their teeth during lockdown.

The survey also revealed that more than 2.7 million Australians admit to skipping brushing their teeth daily during lockdown and that as many as 1.9 million people were only prompted to brush their teeth during lockdown after putting on a mask and smelling their own breath.

Other reasons people were prompted to brush their teeth during lockdown included feeling unhygienic 39%, teeth started to feel ‘furry’ 27%, feeling guilty 21% or they were about to leave home 20%.

Aussies with kids are home under 18, at 54%, were more likely than those who do not at 33%,to delay or skip brushing teeth at least once a week and one in four parents said they were motivated to brush their teeth to be a good role model for kids.

The survey also found that 17% of men were more likely than women at 11%, to skip brushing their teeth on a daily basis.

Dr Chris Ho.

CONNECTING PEOPLE IN BUSINESS PARRAMATTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

with Geoff Lee MP

“

Water is our most precious resource and to have such a significant number of applications come from hugely diverse groups is reassuring as we see the immense passion, as well as a shared focus on building water knowledge across cultures and generations.”

- Minister Melinda Pavey.

GEOFF LEE Delivering for 11 , 3

Geoff LEE MP

Member for Parramatta 02 9891 4722

parramatta@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Ground Floor, 60 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Authorised by Geoff Lee MP, Ground Floor, 60 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Grants to Improve water literacy PROJECT aimed at teaching local secondary school students about how stormwater run-off can impact the environment has received $10,000 in funding as part of Sydney Water’s 2021 Community Grants Program.

The project titled Float It-secondary schools design challenge, is run by community group Good for the Hood and will see up student representatives from schools in the City of Parramatta local council area, take part in a one-day workshop that will highlight contamination challenges in their local water catchments and encourage student-led, place-based design solutions.

These designs can be taken back to schools and implemented on campus to improve stormwater run-off.

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education and Member for Parramatta, Dr Geoff Lee said it’s fantastic to see this funding allocated to an engaging project that will have students designing and implementing their own solutions to areal-world issue in our community.

“Our schools provide the best environment for our future generations to learn about how they can work together to improve their natural surroundings,” Dr Lee said.

As part of the Community Grants Program, six community groups will each receive funding of $10,000 for projects aimed at improving the way we value and care for water in our communities today and into the future.

These projects have also been selected for their ability to generate environmental, social, economic or cultural benefits for their local communities.

Minister for Water, Housing and Property, Melinda Pavey said it is so encouraging to see how passionate our community is when it comes to improving water security for our future.

“Water is our most precious resource and to have such a significant number of applications come from hugely diverse groups is reassuring as we see the immense passion, as well as a shared focus on building water knowledge across cultures and generations,” Minister Pavey said.

“I’d like to extend a huge congratulations to the six groups who have been selected as recipients for Sydney Water’s 2021 Community Grants,” Mrs Pavey said.

This year, the Community Grants Program was reshaped to align with Sydney Water’s vision for the future. A vision which is centred around creating a better life with worldclass water services to deliver better outcomes for all and support a thriving, liveable and sustainable city.

Sydney Water’s General Manager of Customer, Strategy & Engagement, Maryanne Graham, said each and everyone of our applicants are consciously striving to make a difference in water literacy.

“We truly believe that a higher level of water education empowers people to share their ideas and discuss important topics such as water resilience, reliable water supply and the role of water in the environment, all of which help inform our planning for Greater Sydney,” Ms Graham said.

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For more information on Sydney Water’s Community Grants Program, visit: https://sydneywater.com.au/communitygrants

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

AN UPDATE FROM COUNCIL

Getting behind #VaxTheNation

Citizen of the Year Awards Council’s popular Citizen of the Year Awards are coming up soon. This is your chance to nominate unsung local

Online Citizenship Ceremonies

heroes who deserve to be recognised for

Becoming an Australian citizen is an

their valuable contributions to our

incredible honour and Council is continuing

community.

to support local residents on their journey by holding online Citizenship Ceremonies

Council is also currently seeking Expressions

during the pandemic. Council will continue

of Interest for people interested in being

to host online ceremonies until larger

voluntary members of the Judging Panel

public gatherings are allowed.

for the Awards, responsible for the review,

For more information, visit:

assessment and selection of award

cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/living/

recipients.

civic-program-and-citizenship

Council’s New Home

Council has joined the #VaxTheNation campaign in

To find out how you can be involved, visit:

support of the safe return of live entertainment.

cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/citizen-of-

For more than a year, much of the live

the-year-awards

Council will soon have a new administrative

entertainment, festivals and performances

headquarters in the heart of the growing

that the City of Parramatta is famous for

Parramatta CBD, after it recently purchased

has been interrupted or put on hold.

a seven-storey building at 9 Wentworth Street. The building is located near the $2.7 billion Parramatta Square and soon-to-

The pandemic has forced Council to close the doors of the cherished Riverside

Next Stage for the Powerhouse Construction of the Powerhouse Parramatta is set to kick off early next year after the NSW Government appointed construction giant Lendlease to build the world-class

come Parramatta Light Rail route, and

Theatres, as well as cancel popular events

boasts 7,650 square metres of office space,

such as Winterlight and Burramutta

a 5.0-star NABERS Energy rating, and

NAIDOC Day.

basement parking.

Although a number of shows and programs

From 2023, it will be home to corporate

have been moved online, Council looks

staff, Councillor and Lord Mayor’s offices,

forward to welcoming visitors back into the

and the Customer Contact Centre, whose

City and re-energising the local creative

helpful staff are the key point of contact

and performing arts sector, which generates

for our many residents.

$32 million a year for our economy.

This move is a strategic investment in

Council has been encouraging eligible

opens, inject millions of dollars into the

the future of our City, enhancing the

residents to get vaccinated as soon as

local economy, and attract two million

delivery of Council’s many services for

they can and, more recently, thrown its

visitors to Parramatta from all over Australia

the community.

support behind #VaxTheNation.

and the world each year.

cultural institution. This is a momentous milestone for the City of Parramatta.

When completed in late 2024, it will be a state-of-the-art museum featuring more than 18,000 square metres of exhibition and public space.

The once-in-generation project will deliver more than 3,500 jobs during construction and at least 400 ongoing jobs when it

Launched by the live entertainment industry, this campaign encourages eligible Australians to get vaccinated to speed up the safe return of live performances.

The sooner we reach the 80 per cent fully vaccinated target, the sooner we will be able to enjoy the rewards that come with it – including experiencing the magic of live entertainment again.

9 Wentworth Street will soon be the new home of City of Parramatta Council.

For more information about COVID-19 and vaccinations, visit: health.nsw.gov.au

Please note: Since printed copies of many of our local newspapers are no longer available, all Development Applications (DAs), items on exhibition, and public notices will now be available via Council’s website: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au Council Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6.30pm.

In line with the NSW Government’s COVID-19 restrictions, the public can not currently attend in person. To view the live stream visit cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/councilmeetings

The NSW Government has appointed Lendlease to build the Powerhouse Parramatta.

To stay up-to-date with the latest news, visit cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/news

126 Church Street, Parramatta | PO Box 32, Parramatta NSW 2124 P 02 9806 5050 E council@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au | cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au @parracity, @atparramatta

@cityofparramatta, @atparramatta

@cityofparramatta, @atparramatta

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Cover Story

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

Artist impressions of the Uber lying car project.

Is that a bird, is that a plane? No, it’s a CAR!  FUTURE | DI BARTOK AN you imagine cars flying above the Parramatta CBD? Parramatta Chamber of Commerce president Luke Magee can certainly see it as a possibility after the Parramatta Times discussed a report from University of NSW suggesting the concept was not far away.

“I hope it can be something we can look forward to in the future. It would be good for Parramatta, with its lack of parking,” Mr Magee said.

“These flying cars could work like the proposed driverless cars where you park them outside the city and they come to pick you up.

“We could have parking bays on top of residential and commercial buildings.”

Mr Magee was keen on the idea after hearing reports out of the US that Uber was looking into air taxies, which are envisioned to be a cross between a plane and a helicopter, taking off vertically.

UNSW aerospace design expert Dr Sonya Brown said companies around the world were reaching new heights to develop flying cars that could one day be flown by commuters to work or even over longer distances for leisure travel.

Dr Brown from the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, says the aim of these vehicles is to eventually provide another means of urban air

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“

These flying cars could work like the proposed driverless cars where you park them outside the city and they come to pick you up.”

– Parramatta Chamber President, Luke Magee. mobility to help reduce congestion on the road–another reason they would suit busy Parramatta, Mr Magee said.

“Long-term, flying cars will offer us another means for short and personalised travel,” Dr Brown said.

“We’re starting to see an emergence of flying car variants in development around the world, and even here in Australia, as more companies are investing in these vehicles.

“Some early adopters of these technology include rideshare companies and emergency services, given some vehicles are being designed to be more versatile than traditional aircraft and helicopters.”

What exactly are they?

Flying cars resemble a cross between a drone and a small aircraft, so most will have wings and typically include between four to eight rotors.

They can fly a few hundred to a few thousand metres above the ground, occupying the air space above where you’d expect to see drones flying but below standard flying commercial aircrafts.

While it probably won’t get someone from Sydney to Melbourne on one battery charge, flying cars could potentially travel up to 250 kilometres in one ride.

“The underlying technology that’s so important with flying cars is the ability to both take off and land vertically and fly horizontally as well. This makes the mechanics much more complex than a helicopter which primarily has vertical propulsion,” Dr Brown said.

A win for the environment Prototypes of flying cars are currently being designed with electrically powered rotors meaning they can be battery operated. As long as the batteries are recharged in a sustainable manner, for example using wind or solar energy, the flying cars won’t emit any harmful emissions into the environment.

“Ideally, the aim is to design these

green vehicles so that they reduce emissions whilst reducing traffic congestion on the ground as well,” Dr Brown said.

“With growing research in the renewable energy sector, I think there’s huge potential to consider other alternative energy sources, such as hydrogen, to power the flying cars in the future.”

Keeping the hand break up for now Slow down–flying cars won’t take off just yet, there’s a few bumps to get over first.

Some of the challenges the industry is looking to solve are around regulation and traffic control.

Similar to commercial flights, flying cars will need traffic control rules, corridors and flight paths to establish right of way to avoid any potential collisions.

“There's a lot of work going into developing collision avoidance systems, particularly focusing on how these vehicles are going to communicate with each other to make real-time decisions on things such as right of way,” Dr Brown said.

She says even though future flying cars models could be autonomous, users may need much more experience than a simple driving license to get behind the wheel of one.

“In the future, if there are going to be hundreds or even thousands of these occupying the skies above highly populated areas, it’s important that we consider the impact the noise will have for people in their homes below,” Dr Brown said.

NewS

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

13

Bankwest to become CommBank Stadium

Above: The newly signed CommBank Stadium; right the stadium in and sue and far right CommBank CEO, Matt Comyn.

E’VE got used to seeing the Bankwest Stadium sign on O’Connell Street in Parramatta, but the west’s iconic stadium will have a name change from October 1.

Bankwest will transfer naming rights of Western Sydney Stadium to the Commonwealth Bank as the nation’s largest bank commits to supporting business on the recovery side of the pandemic and aims to revitalise its brand in Greater Sydney.

CommBank has announced a multiyear partnership with Venues NSW for the naming-rights of the Stadium that has become part of the social fabric of Western Sydney.

Bankwest Stadium will officially become known as CommBank Stadium from October 1. Bankwest is part of the CBA Group.

Working with the Stadium, CBA is also

W

scheduling a business fair at CommBank Stadium early in the New Year to support Western Sydney businesses showcase their products.

CommBank has also announced a $120,000 investment to help small businesses in the 12 Western Sydney Local Government Areas that have been subject to the harder lockdown restrictions.

CommBank is working with Chamber Alliance of Western Sydney (CAWS) to help small business in these LGAs to market their activities as the region comes out of lock down in the lead-up to Christmas.

CAWS President, Trevor Oldfield said he was delighted to that the Commonwealth Bank had taken steps to work with local businesses in these challenging times.

Commonwealth Bank CEO, Matt Comyn, said: “Western Sydney is one of fastest growing regions in the country, and

a key engine room for the national economy. We know the area has been hit hard by the recent COVID-19 restrictions and we’re committed to investing in Western Sydney to help businesses get back on their feet and re-build after an incredibly challenging 2021.

“We’re excited to continue backing the stadium within the CBA Group – it has been a valuable facility in providing economic opportunities to the area and will

continue to be an important part of the community.”

The announcement follows this week’s NSW Government announcement of the new WestInvest Fund for Western Sydney.

Venues NSW CEO Kerrie Mather said the Commonwealth Bank’s commitment to Western Sydney Stadium is a testament to the success of the venue and a huge vote of confidence in the region.

“We are delighted that the biggest brand in Australian banking wants to partner with the hugely successful Western Sydney Stadium. The newly-named CommBank Stadium is an important community facility that has a significant role to play in NSW’s recovery from the pandemic,” Ms Mather said.

WHERE TO GET THE TIMES ParramattA

ISSUE 11 | June 2021

Northmead Sports Cub

PARRAMATTA PARK USERS

FEAR BAT BITES W

HILE Western Sydney Local “I don’t want people Health District (WSLHD) to think that bats from the camp of 15,000 is urging community grey-headed members to ĝying foxes are going avoid handling bats after to swoop down on the Aus- them. Bats tralian bat lyssavirus may annoy people living (ABLV) was recently near them with noise and detected among bats smell but they are in the area, a essential for pollinating expert doesn't want Parramatta wildlife native trees and Park users have been to go all batty. there before European settlement.”’

“The simple message is that you can only Still, 11 people have been be infected by bats if referred to the you handle them– Public Health Unit at such as picking up injured Westmead Hospital bats or trying to after being scratched or bitten free them from netting,” by bats so said Sandra Guy far this year. from Sydney Wildlife Rescue Service. ^îÓâą ß © ͤϺ

w w w. w e x p o . c o

Cumberland Council

Caroline Chilsholm Dr Shops

Westmead Sub newagency

The Fiddler Hotel

Parramatta LGA libraries

Westmead Health precinct

Granville RSL

Toongabbie Bowling Club

Parramatta KPMG Building

Cumberland Council Library

Carlingford Bowling Club

Parramatta Chamber Events

Parramatta Council

Holiday Inn Parramatta

SOP Quest

Cafés in Parramatta LGA

Mercure Parramatta

SOP Novotel Merrylands Bowling Club

m.au

23 SEPTEMBER 2021 CLUB PARRAMA T TA

Voice of Australia’s most

progressive city

THIS EDITION Lord Mayor popular vote: 5 Lighyt Rail structure in place: 7

Relevance a Chamber priority: 10 Facelift for justice pillar: 12 The new trend in travel: 16

CONNE CT & GROW YOU AND YOUR BUSINE SS IN PARRA MATTA & WESTE RN SYDNE Y

ParramattA T I M E S

ParramattA ISSUE 12 | July 2021 |

Lake Parramatta Shops

T I M E S

DON’T GO BATTY

Grab a copy of the Parramatta Times at any of these popular distribution outlets Winston Hills Shopping Mall

| www.parramattatimes.com.au

www.parramatt rramattatimes.c atimes.com.au om.au

T I M E S

CBD PLAN

ON TRACK

W

ITH hardly any time to spare, Parramatta Council submitted its CBD planning proposal to the State Government before going into caretaker mode ahead of the September 4 local government election.

The proposal,

w w w. w e x p o . c o

m.au

23 SEPTEMBER 2021 CLUB PARRAMA T TA

eight years in the making, sets the building codes and planning strategies for Sydney’s second CBD and the State Government was getting antsy over the time council was taking in submitting the code for ratification.

See page 3.

CONNE CT & GROW YOU AND YOUR BUSINE SS IN PARRA MATTA & WESTE RN SYDNE Y

Voice of Australia’s most

Artist impression of a future

progressive city

Parramatta CBD.

THIIS EDITIO THIS EDITION

Seniors have reasons to

be chirpy: 15

Where the kids are the artists:

5

ParramattA T I M E S

NEVER MISS OUT. Get the digital edition 24/7 at www.parramattatimes.com.au

PROPERTY SHOWCASE WESTERN SYDNEY

Published in Western Sydney Business Access | Parramatta Times | Blacktown News | www.westernpropertyguide.com.au

North Parramatta Units popular…

As region experiences massive growth  OUTLOOK | DALLAS SHERRINGHAM ORTH Parramatta units are still a popular choice amongst real estate investors in 2021 according to a survey of the top 50 postcodes in NSW. The suburb came in 36th in the top 50 ranked areas with investment unit values in the 2151 postcode growing by 72.2% during the past decade. A total of 135 investment units have sold in 2021.

The 2151 postcode stretches from the Parramatta River through Northmead all the way to North Rocks Shopping Centre.

Nearby Blacktown local government area was rated the best region for investors buying houses and units in the Greater Sydney Region.

The survey by a leading real estate internet sales site placed the houses in the Blacktown LGA top of the tree in a study of the 50 most popular investment property regions.

In 2021, a total of 482 investment houses have sold in the 2148 postcode representing a 10-year growth rate in median house prices of 109%.

The rental yield was 2.9% this year and the rental demand annual growth averaged 3.3% over the 10 year period.

The Kellyville region covering the 2158 postcode was fourth on the list with 413 investment houses purchased, representing an annual growth rate over the 10-year period of 111.4%.

Penrith and Liverpool were close behind placing sixth and seventh in the number of sales.

In Penrith, units were the most popular type of investor property with 333 sold this year, representing a growth rate of 94.3%.

Liverpool units were the most popular investment properties in the 2170 postcode area with a 65% increase over the period and 302 sales this year.

Blacktown units also featured in the top 10 list of suburbs attracting investors with 250 sales in 2021, a 10 year increase of 79.5%.

Riverstone 239 house sales, Harrington Park 235, Cranebrook 225 and St

N

” We’ve e never had a year quite his one.” like this - John McGrath.

Continued on page 15

John McGrath.

HOW TO WIN THE WEST

APRIL 2021 Edition 120

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS

LO OUR CA CI L PA TY PE ’S R

WESTERN SYDNEY MEDIA ALLIANCE L LOCA NEW

ParramattA Voice of Australia’s most progressive city

T I M E S

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

%ඔඉඋඓග඗ඟ1 Issue 1 | April 2021

Blacktown's LOCAL media voice

EXCLUSIVE: Bob Turner on his new role at Blacktown FC.

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

FULL STORY PAGE 10

RETAIL BOUNCES BACK -

THIS EDITION

in

si

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

de

World class health care

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

New suburb named BradÀeld

Govy ofÀcially names high tech city at Aerotropolis: 6

Family business in COVID

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

TALE OF TWO POOLS

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How hope really works

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

SALOVS: How hope really happens: 19

FTER a few hot summers for swimmers who loved Parramatta and w ÌîÿÓâî®þ±ÅÅ ßÓÓÅæ Ì æóđ â during their closures, relief is on the way. Just a day apart, the refurbished Wentworthville pool opened and î® Ĝâæî æÓ ÿ æ îóâÌ ÓÌ î® spectacular Parramatta Aquatic Centre. Both communities have been without a pool since 2017, the Parramatta Memorial Pool demolished to make way for Bankwest Stadium and the previous Holroyd Council wanting to close the tired Wenty pool

rather than refurbish it. After a bit of æ óĖ îÿ Ì W ââ Ë îî ÓóÌ ±Å and the NSW Government on who would pay for its replacement, an agreement was reached on funding for the state-of-the-art aquatic centre. And in Wentworthville, a concerted community campaign and the Cumberland Council, saved the beloved pool with an upgrade. While Parramatta residents wait two years for their pool, they are welcome to dive to Wenty.

FULL STORY PAGE 6

Young people turning their lives around at BYSA.

Youth Needs Our Support

A

VITAL youth service in Blacktown is set to close after missing out on important State Government funding. The Blacktown Youth Support Association’s Youth HQ program helps young people at risk - those who have

been in trouble with the law or those who may be headed that way. But the service was told at the end of last year by the Department of Communities and Justice that they had missed out on funding, in favour of more “targeted” youth

W

ELCOME to Blacktown's NEW LOCAL media voice, The Blacktown News (BN).

The Blacktown News is the much-anticipated new newspaper and digital media brand that covers Blacktown LGA with local news written by experienced journalists.

The Blacktown News is Blacktown's ONLY printed newspaper and is independently owned and managed locally by a management team that has been working in Blacktown for almost 20 years.

The News will be distributed across 110 strategic distribution points in the LGA. Published in digital and print editions the Blacktown News ođers maximum impact for targeted advertising opportunities and reach to Blacktown's diverse population.

With a mission of championing community and business issues, the BN is a proud media partner of the Greater Blacktown Chamber of Commerce, the Blacktown Local Business Awards and Blacktown FC.

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48,000 Facebook followers Build your own resume Media support programs Multiple packages available

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As one of the state’s fastest growing cities, Blacktown has undergone a signiĜcant transformation.

It's population is set to rise from 400,000 to 540,000 residents by 2036.

The Blacktown News is the print and digital media resource that connects residents and visitors to the city’s diverse community, its progress, business opportunities and lifestyle.

We value your feedback. Go to www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au to share your story.

Keep up to date with the latest news in and around Blacktown!

Get your monthly community e-newsletter today.

The home of jobs in Western Sydney.

Connecting businesses with job seekers directly

programs. A letter from the Minister for Families and Communities Gareth Ward suggested that the BYSA seeks funding from other government departments such as education and sport.

FULL STORY 10

WELCOME to the Blacktown NEWS

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important community announcements upcoming events transformational projects school holiday activities community award programs competitions much, much more...

High impact media that reaches Australia’s fastest growth region - Greater Western Sydney, home of Australia’s newest 24-hour airport.

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www.accessnews.com.au | www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au | www.parramattatimes.com.au | www.jobswesternsydney.com.au

15

ISSUE 15 | October 2021 Continued from page 14 Clair 231 were all in the top 15 and rose in value between 101% and 105% over the decade.

Leading real estate agent John McGrath said:” We’ve never had a year quite like this one’.

“Investor activity has been increasing every month since the start of 2021, while first home buying began declining in February and continued to do so for three consecutive months,” Mr McGrath said in the Real Estate Conversation.

This is great news “In January, investor loans represented 23% of the total loans market - a record low. They have since gone up to 28%. This is below the long-term average since 2002 of 36%.

“Conversely, first home buyer loans in January represented 25% of the market and this has now gone down to 21%.

This is still above the long-term average of 16%, so activity might be dropping off a bit but it still remains high.

“This is great news for sellers of sub-$1.5m houses and units. Any lost demand from first home buyers is being more than offset by new activity from investors and this will keep prices growing for now.”

Mr McGrath said this was important because the unit market was most at risk of feeling the effects of negative population growth if demand from local first home buyers and investors ran out before the international border opens.

He said was expected by the Federal Government in mid-2022.

“Although the COVID boom has been going since last year, investors are only now getting in on the action.

They’ve sat on the sidelines mainly due to the rental moratoriums and uncertainty. No one wants to make big financial decisions when their job might be at risk.“

“However, the general economic outlook for the country is much better now, despite what is happening in Sydney with the Delta variant now. Most investors now know whether they have job security or not, so the path has been cleared to invest if they can.

“The investment landscape looks great,” he said.

Australian home values lifted 12.4% across the combined capital cities in FY21, and a remarkable 17.7% across the combined regions.

The average national weekly rent

went up 6.6% in FY21 according to CoreLogic, which was the fastest pace since 2009. Growth was best in the regions at 11.3% vs 5% in the capitals.

Sources: McGrath RE report, realestate.com.au

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

with COMMUNITY MIGRANT RESOURCE CENTRE

Let’s hope for a speedy recovery  PRISCELLA MABOR S the NSW Premier announced the roadmap out of lockdown this week, many in the business community are battle fatigued and far from confident about the lead up to Xmas. Some have already exited the country.

In 2020, reports were being released on the impacts of COVID for small business- reduced demand for their goods and services and drop in cash flow.

For established businesses, many have infrastructure and capital to pivot online and retain staff through government support packages. Is For many new businesses, many were ineligible for support as they didn’t meet strict eligibility criteria such as revenue history over two years (as businesses needed to prove 30% reduction in turnover from 2019-20).

Services NSW has been taking on average 40,000 calls from desperate business owners daily. Many businesses who just opened, paid set up costs but couldn’t start trading as we entered the second hard lockdown this year.

The multicultural business landscape of Western Sydney has been disproportionately impacted.

The Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) has been supporting the small business community for over 20 years, navigating a variety of external factors which can make or break peoples’ livelihoods.

Whether it’s the big business end of town near the CBD or the small business owner on Merrylands Road, the entrepreneurial drive to succeed is part of the migration success story of this country.

The Chinese business community is one example, but the pandemic has shifted the goalposts on economic confidence. A local community leader explained: “The Chinese business community is not happy. Some bought new businesses in first lockdown and thought the future was clear. But the second lockdown has meant very serious problems. There are loans to repay, and ultimately we are seeing many Chinese leaving Australia. Back in China people appear to be living normal lives.”

Multicultural businesses rise and fall on close-knit networks and relationships with customers.

A

Lack of confidence “People are no longer confident. People need to be united to fight a virus, they can’ t be divided. With borders closed, some businesses can’ t survive. For some, 90% of their customer base was Chinese tourists”.

Anas Khawam is a Business Connect Multicultural Advisor with CMRC, working

closely with Syrian and Iraqi small business owners across Fairfield, Merrylands, Bankstown and Liverpool.

When we catch up, he steps outside his Guildford house where his noise cancelling headphones are unable to muffle the noise of his teenage children in lockdown in the next room.

“This lockdown is a killer for everyone.

Every business owner I speak to is so eager to get back to work and employing people.

This afternoon I spent three hours helping a client with applying for a 50% rent waiver,” he says.

Anas used to own a bakery in Guildford and during the first three weeks of lockdown, revenue tripled but once the 5km rule was introduced, sales fell over.

“All my clients have cashflow problems.

Many have closed or are on the brink.

Imagine paying $5,000 a month in rent, but the government support barely covers the staff, food, home expenses. Restaurant owners have seen revenue drop by 95%,” he says.

Anas like many of his clients, journeyed to Australia during the Syrian Conflict.

“I remember I used to tell my mother when I was younger that I wanted to move to the farthest place in the world but at that time, I had never heard of Australia. Now we are here on this island and we are still lucky. Our entire community came from conflict, and we have faced many challenges before. But this pandemic is new for us.

Once the restrictions lift, business owners will be rushing to start making money again,” he said.

Breaking free of the lockdown bubble is also on the mind of Anas and many of his community.

“We are all yearning to see the water and be near the ocean. So everyone is talking about going to Wollongong. That will give us all some comfort.”

Let’s hope that post- October 11, our local multicultural business community will rise again and look forward to a bright pre-Xmas boost in sales.

Priscella Mabor Inclusion Strategy & Innovations Manager at the Community Migrant Resource Centre Parramatta. Visit: www.cmrc.com.au

“

Whether it’s the big business end of town near the CBD or the small business owner on Merrylands Road, the entrepreneurial drive to succeed is part of the migration success story of this country.”

Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation established in 1996.

CMRC is a leader in the provision of specialised support services to newly arrived migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants.

CMRC works within a community capacity building framework to encourage individuals and multicultural communities to identify and address their own issues.

It works in collaborative partnerships with a great number of agencies to provide services which have both an immediate and long term benefit for the community.

CMRC employs over 60 full time, part-time and casual multi-lingual staff.

Paramatta office Level 4, 1 Horwood Place Parramatta, NSW 2150 Ph: (02) 9687 9901 Monday – Friday: 9AM – 5PM

The Hills office

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

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

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

FitnesS

17

Make small changes for big results  ADAM SIMPSON F you have read my articles in the past, you would know that I am big on trying to develop healthy habits.

Creating healthy habits is what I believe is the key to getting in the best shape of your life and staying that way. But where should you start?

I think a great place to start, is to first be honest with yourself. Pick one to two exercise/eating habits that you currently have that you know you could improve on.

Below are some examples of habits I have seen over the years:

I

• Drinking too many calories – whether that be alcohol, soft drink, highly processed juices etc.

• Eating dessert and ‘treat’ type foods more often than you should • Not eating enough fruits and vegetables.

• Not eating enough protein.

• Eating take away foods too often.

• Being inconsistent with your exercise.

Note: There is nothing wrong with drinking alcohol or soft drinks, having dessert or eating take away food. The main issue is that people do this too often which leads to an over consumption of calories, causing a weight gain.

If you can pick one or two things from the list above or maybe you have something more relevant to yourself.

Keep things simple and just change those one to two habits for the next 28 days. Be super consistent and it shouldn’t be too long until you find it truly easy to stick to your new plan.

Often the best weight loss plans are the simplest, if things are simple it’s much easier to stick to it. If you can keep at it for a

long enough period of time, I guarantee you that you will get a result. Once you have formed these new habits, you can look to work on something else.

Often, I see people think they need to completely overhaul their life or follow a

strict diet to get weight loss results. However, I don’t think this is a great long-term strategy.

If you are making too many sacrifices or your eating regime becomes too strict. You are going to be very unlikely to be able to continue to do this forever.

I have seen this all too often, once people stop their ‘new diet’ it is easy to slip back into old habits and regain any weight that may have been lost. Skip that hassle and just start working on your daily habits now, make small changes that you can stick to long term.

As always, my message is the same.

• Exercise more days than you don’t.

• Try to include fruit and vegetables with most meals.

• Limit the ‘treat’ type foods you eat, but never cut them out.

• Eat a high-quality protein source with each meal.

• Drink mostly water, but enjoy yourself when you want to.

Adam Simpson is lead trainer and founder at Repetitions Group fitness and Personal Training. Visit: www.repetitionspt.com.au

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Crosswords/Games Solutions page 22

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Research rooms 5. North African expanse 11. Similar type 14. Nitrogenous waste 15. Readied 16. Date or age beginning 17. Driver’s ___ 18. Blow to pieces 20. Bowler, but not golfer 21. Fox chaser?

22. Orbital extreme 23. Not so cordial 25. Tot tenders 26. They’re twirled in parades 28. Rome septet 29. Take effect, in legalspeak 30. Island of entertainment 31. So ___ 34. Emulated Lady Godiva 35. Less firm, maybe 36. Add a kick to 37. Common tip jar bill 38. Moisten, poetically 39. Pulverize 40. Repaired a shoe 41. Moves unobtrusively 42. Worldly, not spiritual 45. “Haystacks” artist 46. Collar, for cops 47. Whim 48. Small handful 51. Call girl 53. Bridges of film 54. Tiny particle 55. Ducks 56. Caveat to a buyer 57. Lacking liquid 58. Colt’s sound 59. Bank adjuncts

DOWN 1. Opulent 2. Grounds 3. Exalted happiness 4. Created a lap 5. Future ferns 6. Pergola 7. Saber handle 8. Bud in Burgundy 9. Shopkeeper 10. With skill 11. Celebrity’s concern 12. Not as timely 13. A couple of big joints 19. Languishes 21. One of a trident trio 24. Compost heap discard 25. Connective tissue 26. Ball point pen inventor 27. In a moment 28. Was optimistic 30. Sweet or hard beverage 31. Most flawed 32. Cause of some scars 33. Lipstick hues 35. Family tree entry 36. Metal deposit 38. Prop up 39. Color for the tickled 40. Files litigation 41. Hurting the most 42. Flavorsome 43. Trial associate?

44. Close pal 45. Agrippina, to Nero 47. Form of pachisi 49. Injure badly 50. Cat in boots 52. Astaire specialty 53. Bucolic cry

BusinesS

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

19

TAKING STEPS TO MANAGE TRANSITION

How to achieve control over the outcomes  AGNES VACCA LANNING for a future outside of work is something we’ll all need to do eventually, but the binary concept of moving from employed to retired is not as simple or straightforward for business owners.

Complicated by a number of factors, some financial, but many, emotional and social, a business owner leaves not just a role but a way of life, and many will need to separate their identity from the business they’ve built to make room for a transition.

There is much at stake through the process of transitioning leadership, including the value created from years of hard work and the future of stakeholders integral to the business’ success – your family, employees and customers. But less than 47 percent of family businesses have turned their mind to planning for a transition.

Primarily, many feel that they are not ready for retirement – there is no legislated

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MAY 2021 Edition 121

or normalised age at which an entrepreneur should step aside. However, that’s the not the only reason family businesses fall behind in planning succession. Others include: • A need to be able to feel secure in their own, and their family’s future • A sense of losing control and not being able to manage their own destiny • Dealing with unfinished business.

Managing these feelings takes time, and many fail to develop the mindset necessary for the transition to occur. In order to secure the future of their business, owners need to deal with and react to change, and pivot accordingly – skills that are critical to entrepreneurship.

For business owners to best anticipate change and plan for transition, they should consider: 1. Being an active participant. Treat change and transition not as something that happens to you but

something that you can own and control. Being able to remain the key decision maker in the manner and means by which your own transition occurs increases confidence in the transition process.

2. Becoming a gardener. At some point, what you’ve created has grown into something with its own life. How can you nurture new growth?

3. Becoming a great coach. Accept that all players have to retire some time and many become better coaches than players. Experience accumulates with age, converting that experience to knowledge empowers family business leaders to become great coaches.

4. Helping explain ‘why’. Assist in instilling a purpose for the organisation and, by implication, help future generations to carry on your legacy. Successful businesses run smoothly – everyone knows

what the business does and how it does it. Family businesses that last for generations also know the why and being around to help emphasise what that means can be integral to future success.

5. Being available but not visible. At some point, you need to have the presence to not be present. Any transition will inevitably have new people playing senior roles, and you’ll need to work out how to be there without being seen. Your successors will benefit in the confidence knowing you have moved on, yet are still around if needed.

By deliberately thinking about your, and your business’ future now, you can take the first steps towards transition.

Change might not be easy but being the change is easier than being changed.

First published on KPMG.com.au by Agnes Vacca, Partner, Geographical Lead – WA, Enterprise, KPMG Australia.

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS

WESTERN SYDNEY BUSINESS

APRIL 2021 Edition 120

Partnership aiming to boost trades jobs

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false information on to an approved sales SED car purchases have boomed contract. Lansvale dealership directors during the COVID-19 pandemic, Azizul Hakim Chowdhury and Nahida opening a major source of revenue Akhter pleaded guilty to the charges brought for dodgy dealers in Western Sydney.

by NSW Fair Trading at Parramatta Local Imports Narita dealership car Second-hand Court and were ordered to pay $7,725 in has been found guilty of seven offences fines and costs. Full story: 2 relating to misleading customers by entering

THIS EDITION From career crisis to dream job: 5 Change of guard for Salvos: 8 Sizzling hot property market: 20

Western Sydney’s most sought-after business publication

Mid-market upeat, post COVID: 22

RETAIL BOUNCES BACK I and Now retailers have revealed the solutions on ’TS no secret times have been the toughest for the industry bounce and mortar’ support measures needed record for Western Sydney’s ‘bricks back this year and beyond. a proud retail industry, but this sector has FULL STORY PAGE 5 hardest of times. history of bouncing back from the

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Taking a sickie is good for you: 34

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World class health care

www.accessnews.com.au www.facebook.com/AccessNewsAustralia www.linkedin.com/company/access-news-australia

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

New suburb named BradÀeld

Govy ofÀcially names high tech city at Aerotropolis: 6

Family business in COVID

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

How hope really works

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

TraveL

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

Many scenes of Mollymook.

Blessed with spectacular beaches Fit for former PM

 MOLLYMOOK | SANDIP HOR DGING the Pacific Ocean, the coastal strip winding southwards from Sydney almost down to the Victorian border is generally referred to as the South Coast of NSW and is blessed with spectacular beaches and expansive national parks.

This makes it an ideal destination for a fun-filled vacation with plenty of things to do from playing in the sun, sea and surf to bushwalking, rock climbing, wildlife spotting and kayaking on the tranquil waters of a pristine lake.

Or, you can just do nothing other than to relax and enjoy the top food and wine experiences the region has to offer.

Bordered by the mountains, coastal plains and countless beaches, Shoalhaven area in South Coast is a popular retreat for Sydneysiders and Canberra residents being within easy driving distances from both the urban nests.

The area’s pleasant climate has always been a lure. It is comfortable throughout the year with clement sea breezes to cool in summer while clean air for lengthy saunters in winter.

With a population of just a few thousand, the tiny seaside hamlet of Mollymook is a star of Shoalhaven. It is located only minutes from the harbor port of Ulladulla and historic rural Milton. These three expanses match each other with their specialities and ambience.

The surrounding boroughs offer lavishness of nature’s delights with spectacular scenery, woody mountains and myriad captivating waterways.

Lake Conjola, an aquatic haven for fishing, kayaking, water skiing and wakeboarding is pretty close.

Former Prime Minister John Howard used to visit this serene destination regularly to relax and recharge batteries.

Another key attraction of the area is the widespread presence of kangaroos.

They can be seen jumping around in the neighbouring valleys and forested areas and some of them don’t mind posing for a selfie with the visitors Tourism has been badly hit in this region, earlier due to the shattering bushfires and since March this year because of the COVID19 lockdown and restrictions.

They have eased a little bit now allowing travel within the state with cautions.

The damaging extent of the bushfires is testified by thousands of burnt-down trees in the surrounding national parks.

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Overcoming problems By the time when the bushfire recovery plans started activating, suddenly the flaming issues from the corona virus pandemic forced the tourism industry into a stage of induced coma.

The situation has started improving marginally with some NSW dwellers traveling in and around the region. Local businesses are warmly welcoming whoever can make it there, as it not only reignites their economy in a humble way but also gives them hope to survive.

Fact File Great for surfing Mollymook is best known for its excellent surf beach of sweeping clean sands and clear waters with plenty of space for surfers, sunbathers and fishing enthusiasts.

While engaging with the sandy patch remains its main drawcard, there are many

other things to do in Mollymook from playing golf at the sea edged greenery and whale watching during winter months from the high grounds of Ulladulla lighthouse through to enjoying luxury seafront accommodation and great food and wine at the local eateries.

Getting There: It’s easy to reach Mollymook by road, a three-hour drive from Sydney (225km) and two and half hours from Canberra (200km) Stay: Plenty of staying options throughout the region from luxury resorts and hotels to backpacker hostels and Airbnb accommodations.

More info: www.visitnsw.com

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

A majestic global dining palette  BLUE MOUNTAINS | ELLEN HILL AUCY tales, exotic opulence and the odd celebrity demise. The Hydro Majestic Hotel in the Blue Mountains sits alongside the Hotel Ritz Paris, Raffles Singapore and Claridge’s London as legendary havens of mischief and luxury With staff from around the world welcoming waves of international tourists in a distinctly Australian location, the Hydro Majestic also represents the modern face and cuisine of Australia – as it has for more than a century.

The status of the original Blue Mountains party palace as the grandest of the grand hotel in the region was restored when current owner Escarpment Group unveiled its $35M refurbishment in 2014.

The spectacular Casino Lobby was stripped back to show off that stupendous dome prefabricated in Chicago and imported by original Hydro Majestic owner, department store doyenne Mark Foy. The Wintergarden Restaurant where one takes high tea (traditional or Eastern) is bedecked in understated gold and white elegance with enormous windows giving a breathtaking view over the Megalong Valley.

There’s the Majestic Ballroom with its beautiful vaulted ceiling, the revamped Boiler House Café in the old pump house and the sophistication of black and chrome in the Belgravia accommodation lounge.

But the best way to appreciate the full magnificence of the Hydro Majestic, the building, the history and the gob-smackingly gorgeous location on the edge of the escarpment, is to stroll along the (in)famous Cat’s Alley hallway, cocktail in hand, and watch the sunset over the Megalong Valley.

The golden tendrils seep down the blood red walls, lighting up the peacock feathers and richly furbished lounges, and bring the original artworks of blood sports to life.

Foy, was a visionary, an ambitious and remarkable one, creating the hotel on a mountain top against all odds. Soon the fortunate, the famous, the fabulous, even the infamous, flocked to the Hydro Majestic from around the globe.

With regular festivals and events including the Roaring 20s Festival in February, Escarpment Group has returned the flounce to the old girl’s skirt so the Hydro Majestic is once again the most flamboyant showgirl of Australia’s first tourist destination.

The latest event was a seven-course degustation featuring traditional dishes from global locations infused with local flavours served by staff from around the world, heralds a modern era of theatrical dining for

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The iconic Hydro Majestic.

A gastronomic event Mark Foy’s “Palace in the wilderness’’ Dishes such as Creole-style braised short rib, southern grits, collard greens and corn tamarillo salsa obviously originated from distant shores. However, the ingredients were sourced from a 100-mile radius around the hotel.

Rounding off the gastronomic event with lamingtons was the shared food link to Australia.

It could be said that the Hydro Majestic represents the modern face and cuisine of Australia – as it has for more than a century.

Escarpment Group general manager Ralf Bruegger said: “The Hydro Majestic has always embraced cultural diversity, not because its first owner Mark Foy was politically correct but because he genuinely loved people of all races, their culture, art and food – just as we do today.

With the means to satisfy his every whim, the well-travelled Foy had the famous hotel dome pre-fabricated in Chicago and shipped to Australia. Dr George Baur of the Shoeneck health spa in Switzerland was hired to devise and supervise a program of diets and weird and wonderful treatments.

Turkish coffee at the Hydro Majestic was

served by Turkish waiters, Chinese tea by Chinese waiters.

Louie (Charlie) Goh Mong was just one of many Chinese migrants who reverted to their traditional skills post-Bathurst gold rush era around the turn of the 20th century and worked as butlers, cooks, nannies, maids and produce suppliers to inns, guesthouses, and manor houses across the Blue Mountains during that time.

Charlie worked as a cook at Foy’s Sydney home and managed the mayhem at the Hydro Majestic for 35 years.

Today, staff from 16 language groups work at the Hydro Majestic including English, French, Canadian, Russian, Chinese (all dialects), Portuguese, Vietnamese, Spanish, Italian, Indonesian, Thai and more.

“People visit the Hydro Majestic from all over the world and we must understand and accommodate their cultural needs,’’ Mr Bruegger said.

Go to www.hydromajestic.com.au or phone (02) 4782 6885 for bookings and more information about the Hydro Majestic Hotel.

Popular attracrtion: The Three Sisters.

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AutO

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

with JOHN MELLOR

Broader capabilities and AWD headline Hyundai’s iMax replacement  MATT BROGAN YUNDAI Motor Company Australia (HMCA) says it is targeting a 22 per cent share of the sub-$60,000 people mover segment with its just-launched Staria, however that figure is still well behind 56 per cent stranglehold of the Kia Carnival.

The modest goal is reflective of the 14-year-old and now defunct iMax’s peak sales performance in 2014 with the brand hoping to emulate the figures with its new model while pinching sales away from SUVs. Speaking to media at the local launch of the Staria, HMCA product general manager Andrew Tuitahi said the new model was designed to improve on the iMax “in two key areas” on account of it riding on the same N3 platform as the Santa Fe large SUV. “The first was space and practicality, and we see that improved dramatically with the platform relation to the Santa Fe,” he said.

“The other is drivability; bringing the ride and handling characteristics of our people-mover in line with current customer expectations.

“We think the line-up gives us a unique offering in the market and a great opportunity for cross-shopping against SUVs.” The eight-seat model is priced from $48,500 (plus on-road costs) and is already available in dealerships in three different grades, each with the option of petrol or diesel power, however the latter is paired exclusively to the Hyundai Group’s HTRAC all-wheel drive system.

As previously reported by GoAuto, the powerplants in question are a 200kW/331Nm 3.5-litre V6 and a 130kW/420Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, both of which are paired to a shift-by-wire eight-speed automatic transmission.

Combined cycle fuel economy is listed at 10.5L/100km for the petrol and 8.2L/100km for the diesel, with CO2 emissions of 239g/km and 218g/km respectively.

Braked towing capacity for either driveline is listed at 2500kg, 500kg more than the Kia Carnival and now on par with the Volkswagen Multivan.

Longer, wider, and taller than the Carnival, the Staria measures 5252mm in length (+98mm), 1997mm wide (+2mm), and 1990mm tall (+15mm) with a 3273mm wheelbase, giving it 183mm more space between the axles than the segment dominating Kia. Cargo space extends from 831-1303 litres (VDA) depending on the seating configuration utilised.

“The all-new Staria is a head-turning eight-seat people-mover alternative to our SUV favourites, Santa Fe and Palisade, with all the safety, comfort, and convenience

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technology our customers expect in a modern passenger vehicle,” said HMCA CEO Jun Heo. The Staria is the first model to debut Hyundai’s single-curve silhouette, a design which will carry over to its upcoming Staria Load – the replacement for the mid-sized iLoad van – which is due to touchdown locally within the next four to six weeks.

HMCA says the Staria’s styling is a “sleek and clean minimalist style which opens with a futuristic front treatment headlined by a wide, body-coloured radiator grille with low-set LED headlights at either side, with a horizontal LED strip above comprising a centre positioning lamp and DRLs”.

More convenience features The frontal styling of the 2022 Hyundai Staria is undoubtedly the people-mover’s strongest, and perhaps most divisive talking point.

The theme continues across deep panoramic side glass, automatic sliding doors, and subtly flared arches over 18-inch alloy wheels with the broad, minimalist profile of the vehicle providing a “stable, sporty stance”.

At the rear, the Staria’s top-hinged automatic tailgate is identified by a large single pane of glass atop an integrated ‘STARIA’ logo and flanked by vertical ‘parometric’ LED combination tail-lights. An integrated spoiler includes a high-mount stop-light and wiper/washer.

Hyundai’s inside-out design philosophy focussed on extracting as much space from

the new Staria as possible. As such, the vehicle’s interior features over a metre of legroom across each of its three rows and enough interior space for children to stand upright.

Considerable thought has also been given to entry and egress with the second row of seats sliding and tilting automatically to provide access to the third row.

Currently, the Staria is available only in eight-seat format with ADR limitations prohibiting the sale of nine and eleven-seat variants. HMCA says it is “exploring other seating configuration options”, including a higher-grade seven-seat model with second-row Captain’s chairs.

The dashboard includes dual 10.25-inch displays – one for the infotainment array and the other for the instrument panel.

Leather upholstery is available on Highlander variants, as well as a Qi wireless smartphone charger, five USB charging points and 16 cupholders.

Further convenience features include a smart key with push-button door opening/ closing and remote engine start, a blind spot view, surround view, and a rear passenger view monitor.

HMCA product planning coordinator Simon Bartnik said the Staria is part of the brands plan to release 18 new models by the end of 2022 and “aims to be the safest people-mover on the market”.

“The all-new Staria replaces the oldest model in our line-up and is the latest in a series of new and upgraded models Hyundai has released locally this year,” he said.

Despite the big safety aspiration, the Staria does not feature child-seat anchor points in the third row, however it does include top-tether and ISOFIX anchors in the second row.

It is yet to be tested by EuroNCAP or ANCAP, but the related Santa Fe received a five-star safety rating.

Nevertheless, the Staria features seven airbags – including curtain airbags across all three seating rows – blind-spot, lane keeping, and lane-following assistants, auto high-beam, autonomous emergency braking with multi-collision brake, driver attention monitoring, safe exit earning, rear cross-traffic assist and a 360-degree camera.

Higher grade models add safe exit assistance and a 3D surround-view camera.

The Hyundai Staria is backed by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.

Servicing intervals are set at 12 months or 15,000km (whichever comes first) with the first five services priced at $360.

HMCA says it expects Staria sales to favour the all-wheel-drive diesel variants over the two-wheel-drive petrols (55:45 per cent), with the base trim anticipated to be the bulk seller and account for around 40 per cent of sales.

2022 Hyundai Staria pricing* Staria 3.5 (a) Staria 2.2 (a) Elite 3.5 (a) Elite 2.2 (a) Highlander 3.5 (a) Highlander 2.2 (a)

$48,500 $51,500 $56,500 $59,500 $63,500 $66,500 *Excludes on-road costs

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

AutO with JOHN MELLOR

Toyota Australia not ruling out RHD Tundra as 2022 model gets hybrid, twin-turbo V6  TOYOTA | HAITHAM RAZAGUI AND MATT BROGAN HE axe has fallen on Toyota’s V8-powered Tundra as the Japanese marque unveils full details of its latest full-size pick-up truck for the North American market, providing clues to what the new LandCruiser 300’s future hybrid driveline might look like.

Increasing popularity of outsized utes in Australia and under-the-skin similarities to the new LandCruiser could also make the 2022 Tundra the most likely yet to get the green light for official imports – especially given the precedent set by factory-backed right-hand drive conversions of Ram and Chevrolet models.

“Toyota Australia has seen the popularity of the fullsize pick-up segment in Australia grow in the past few years and it is a segment that has been of interest to us and to our customers,” a Toyota Australia spokesperson told GoAuto.

“There are currently no plans for the new model Tundra to be produced in right-hand drive from the factory.

However, this is something that we will continue to study.”

Toyota’s first all-new full-size pick-up in 15 years marks an end to the long-serving 5.7-litre UR series V8, instead powered by a new iForce 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, as found in the 300 Series LandCruiser.

The 24-valve engine develops 290kW/649Nm in the Tundra, or 352kW/790Nm in hybridised iForce Max models.

Both engines are paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission with Tow/Haul mode but performance figures, range details, fuel economy numbers and pricing are yet to be announced.

Where non-hybrid models benefit from a large storage area beneath the rear seats, hybrid versions of the Tundra use the space to house a proven 288-volt nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack, rather than newer lithium-ion technology.

This ties in with comments made by LandCruiser chief engineer Sadayoshi Koyari in an interview with GoAuto at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, where he said for the legendary off-roader to gain hybrid drive it would “need a technology which is really reliable even in the hardest environmental conditions”.

“If we will have one day a technology – hybrid technology or whatever – which is reliable enough that we can say, ‘OK we will implement that into a LandCruiser,’ I would not say no.”

The new Tundra shares much of its new GA-F platform with the recently released 300 Series LandCruiser, which is based on a body-on-frame version of Toyota’s TNGA (Toyota New Generation Architecture) and will be sold in Australia with a 230kW/687Nm 3.3-litre V6 turbo-diesel.

Although the Tundra is not currently offered with a diesel option, the shared petrol engines and architectural similarities mean the LandCruiser could be made available with version of the Tundra’s new petrol-electric hybrid driveline.

The GA-F platform is also understood to underpin the next-generation Toyota Sequoia full-size SUV, due in the United States by 2023 and tipped to arrive in both rear and four-wheel drive configurations.

Offered in three body styles and with a choice of three tray lengths, the new Tundra range offers up to 2470mm of bed length.

Payload is listed at just 879kg – less than the HiLux dual-cab sold locally – or 11 per cent more than the previous Tundra. The tray bed is formed of a lightweight sheet compound material supported by aluminium bracing as premiered on the smaller Toyota Tacoma.

Maximum braked towing capacity is listed at 5443kg or 17.6 per cent more than the outgoing model.

The new Tundra is suspended by all-coil suspension with twin-tube dampers standard across the range. TRD Pro variants use Fox brand dampers like those found under the Aussie Ranger Raptor and feature a body lift of 28mm.

Technology upgrades include a massive 14-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as standard, along with “Hey Toyota” voice prompts for navigation, audio and selected other features.

Road sign recognition, a 360-degree camera and automatic tailgate that can be opened and closed from the key fob or a switch on the taillight are also new.

High-end variants also receive a 12.3-inch TFT digital instrument cluster and integrated frontal light bar. Alloy bash plates, air suspension, a panoramic roof, and Wi-Fi connectivity are also available within the range.

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

Pig – 5 Stars A surprisingly calm turn from Nic Cage anchors this affecting drama of one man and his truffle pig.

OB (Nicolas Cage) is a truffle hunter in a Oregonian forested area. Rob is reclusive, and in fact only keeps his truffle pig as company.

His only visitor is Amir (Alex Wolff ), a young truffle dealer who is trying to make a name for himself in the industry and break out of his father, Darius’ (Adam Arkin) shadow. Things go wrong however when Rob is attacked in his hut one night, and his pig is stolen.

Enlisting the help of Amir, he heads into the city on the trail of his lost pig. In the process, this former famed and lauded chef has to confront the grief of his past, and the grief of those around him.

Directed by Michael Sarnoski, who was also part of the writing team, PIG is a beautiful surprise of a film.

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A lot of the DNA of this, particularly the trailer, has a sort of lower budget John Wick feel to it–you’d be forgiven for thinking this is a revenge thriller, with a pig the loss rather than a dog or a wife. But that isn’t what this film is at all.

While Rob searches for his lost pig, and there is a brief spurt of violence when the pig is taken, for the most part this is a beautiful, entrancing and introspective film.

Cage turns in a truly phenomenal performance. He is weary, emotional, kind, engaging and angry, all at once. Physically, his costuming is dirty, ragged and blood covered, but his movements are so slow and deliberate, and his emotionality so placid and thoughtful, that the whole performance feels off-kilter, transformative and engaging.

He’s matched by a somewhat manic, self-conscious performance from Wolff as a young man so insecure in himself, and with such a desperate need to prove himself.

The fact that almost every character here is dealing with grief in some way, shape or form–whether it’s the death of a loved one, the long hospitalisation of a parent, the loss of a pig or the fading of a dream–gives the film, and the acting talent, a lot to work with from an emotional landscape perspective, and it turns the narrative of this film into something more important and ethereal.

Visually, the film is stunningly shot.

The cinematography, on such a low budget, is a triumph, and creates mystical worlds out of dense forests and underground hotels alike. It’s a dark film, but

the mood never overtakes the story.

In the end, PIG is a triumph not in spite of the disparate and challenging elements that embody it’s make up, but because of it.

This film probably wouldn’t work as well if it wasn’t made with such a low budget, and if it didn’t have Nicolas Cage in it, and all the preconceptions that his presence forms in viewers before they watch the film.

Nevertheless, Sarnoski has created a truly enjoyable and uplifting piece, that deserves to be seen by the widest possible audience.

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

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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Ride The Eagle – 3 Stars A meditative comedy, with a huge but largely misspent cast, nevertheless offers an entertaining reprieve from the day-to-day.

EIF (Jake Johnson) is a going-nowhere musician, playing bongos in a band composed of people 20 years younger than him, and living in a small studio cabin set up on another man’s land.

When his mother, Honey (Susan Sarandon), dies, Leif discovers that she has left him the cabin they used to live in; but conditionally. To get the cabin, Leif has to complete a list of tasks she has set out for him.

Travelling to the cabin, he has to set about learning the lessons his mother never got the chance to teach him, from rekindling old romances, to learning to ‘be the predator’ and focus on his own love of music.

Jake Johnson picks really interesting films when he isn’t swanning around as mainstream comedic sidekicks. Some of his work in lower budget flicks is tremendous, and here too we get to see a softer, more nuanced and dramatic performance from the man.

That being said, the film is still very funny, and Johnson’s work stands out as the most comically mature and engaging by far. Some of the other characters and actors don’t fare quite as well.

shots, with Sarandon and D’Arcy Carden in particular very evidently not working on the same sets as Johnson.

Simmons plays a longer role throughout the piece, but with early appearances shrouded and likely a stunt-double, it seems more like Johnson’s show throughout. And honestly that’s not a bad thing.

Visually, Ride The Eagle is set in some stunning wilderness, and the big panoramas are played to great effect. So too are some of the little moments, like the fishing scene where Leif tries to prove his manliness by catching a fish with his bare hands.

It’s nothing new or shocking, but it certainly provides a welcome, almost nonchalant sort of wild, back to the Earth mentality to the piece that complements the overarching narrative conclusion.

Ride The Eagle, as a film, under-utilises some of its name brand talent, but fundamentally hits on a winner with a calm, endearing story about loss, regret and enjoying the simple moments in life.

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While Sarandon is quite touching in her role, JK Simmons is saddled with some truly cringeworthy dialogue disguised as humor but too crass when compared with the rest of the piece.

Intriguingly, the structure of the film lends itself to a presumably very covid-safe production. All of these characters largely only interact via video, over phones or from afar without. Most of the shots are one-

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

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PARRAMATTA LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

PARRAMATTA LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

COPPER HANDI L BUSINE CA

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True taste of subcontinent

2021 2 021

AW A RD S

FINALIST PARRAMATTA P RAMAT PAR A TA T

INDIAN AND PAKISTANI AUTHENTIC CUISINE. Chicken and Goat Biryani, Beef and Goat Nihari, Butter Chicken, Lamb Rogan Josh, Beef Vindaloo, Fish Curry, Bihari Kebab, Lamb Cutlet, Tandoori Chicken, Gajar Ka Halwa, Doodh Dulari are the signature dishes together with Pratha Wrap, Vegetarian/ Vegan wrap and Tandoori Wrap, Samosa Chat, Keema Naan, Chick pea Masala, Paneer Handi, Mango Lassi and much more.

Online ordering and delivery should be with Uber, Menulog, Deliveroo and DoorDash we directly can’t deliver and can’t take online orders through our websit

On Saturday-with live Halwa puri Dam ka Keema and Tandoori Laccha Pratha, we cater for all occasions.

With great prices and sumptuous Indian and Pakistani dishes, we provide you the comfort of relishing the dishes at your home with the option of online order that includes delivery and pick up. When the order is placed, you would receive a text confirmation confirming your delivery. To view all the dishes in our menu, please click on the order online button and grab our offers.

5/272 Church St, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia +61 2 9633 1000 www.copperhandi.com.au

Armani Gallery brings you the rich and luxurious culture of the Middle East. Owner Salim Kreich personally sources Armani's merchandise on his regular overseas travels. The inspiration to open a gallery was sparked by the lack of authentic Middle Eastern homewares and furniture available locally.

We have Furniture, Décor, Coffee and Tea Sets, Lighting, Perfumes, Jewellery, Arabesque Glassware and Ceramics, Dead Sea Minerals Skin Care and many more.

Our locations are; Bankstown – Shop 218 Bankstown Central Tel. 02 9709 2305 Parramatta – Shop 9, 1-9 Palmer Street Tel. 02 9683 1246 Warehouse & Wholesale – 215 Woodville Road, Villawood- 0424 006 006

www.armanigallery.com.au Armani Gallery

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info@armanigallery.com.au

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DirectorY

28

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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We operate nationally and provide personal, business and community banking services, wealth management and financial planning.

We are purpose-driven to create and return value for our customers and communities in a way that helps change lives.

To find out more, visit Sue Roper and the team at our Parramatta branch at Westfield Parramatta, call 8843 0030, or email us at parramattabranch@beyondbank.com.au.

www.beyondbank.com.au www.facebook.com/beyondbank

www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIIsgpnCck4

DirectorY

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

Technical solutions via zoom, and ready when you need it.

Better in home care is an NDIS registered support agency as well as an aged care provider. We also provide plan management for NDIS participants under master plan management. The head office is in north Parramatta and the support staff are spread out over the Sydney basin.

Services provided: Personal Care, community access, all aspects of home assistance. All staff have been police checked and have industry training.

FREE CONSULTATION Our professional staff hold over 25 years in healthcare, mental health, and community spaces. Our staff are happy to come to you or meet in a place of your choice to discuss all services free of charge to you.

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www.betterinhomecare.com.au

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BECOME SMART,, SUCCESSFUL AND SUSTAINABLE BU BUSINESSES USI SINE N SS SSES S FOR FOR T TODAY ODAY OD AY A AND ND T TOM TO TOMORROW OMOR OM ORRO RRO ROW OW WW WITH WI WITH: TH: Clear Clea Cl earr Bu Busi Business sine ness G Growth, ro owt wth h, F Future uture t P Proofing roofi fing ng and or Exit Strategy Strrat ateg egy Profitable and sustainable business Increased revenue revenu ue Increased Partner of Choice Increased profit Improved cash flow flow Improved in Business Growth and Exit – Im mproved business s value va alue Improved Innovative, Pragmatic, Results Business exit ready Cost effective eff ffec ecti tive a nd d a high hig igh return on investmentt Cost and Level 7, 91 Phillip St, Parramatta, NSW 2150

ParrIaMmEaSttA

Voice of Australia’s

ISSUE 13 |

s.com.au www.parramattatime August 2021 |

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1300 87 78 78

e city most progressiv

Women need s more refuge

M.AU

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T I M E S

2021

Local hero: Rosemary

Kariuki.

look like What it might cars over to have flying CBD. Parramatta

THIS EDITION

Seek peace in

YOUR HEART

at Epping: Penthouse living

and womhas urged men Rosemary Kariuki ents to open more Hero of the Year, and called on governm ARRAMATTA'S Local g peace in your heart” ic violence. Speakin en to “always seek , escaping domest screening girls and children nity Centre for the refuges for women, e at Granville Commu to migrant woma large audienc how she gave hope recently before film recounting women in violent a documentary s, Ms Kariuki said partner or of Rosemary’s Way, 11. s story page by their husband come back.” Full en hurt and abused away and just don’t “walk should relationships

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19

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COVID kgs: 15

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TIMES.CO RRAMATTA

WWW.PA

S LOCAL NEW TRUSTED

| OCTOBER ISSUE 15

info@bges.co www.bges.co

becomes Bankwest

Stadium: 13 CommBank

GET WITH THE TIMES

Reach thousands of prospective customers in digital and newspaper formats. The Parramatta Times directory offers maximum reach

at affordable rates. julie@accessnews.com.au

Games Solutions

30

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

TrendS

Fairer go for SMEs VS the ATO

“

These changes align with ASBFEO’s vision of a tax system that works for the small business sector, so businesses can achieve greater productivity, return to profitability and grow employment.”

- Bruce Billson.

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM FTEN it can be a case of ‘them versus me’ when taking on the ATO in a dispute over your tax – and it can be overwhelming and downright unfair.

Well, new rules are being introduced to ensure small businesses in dispute with ATO get a fairer go.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) Bruce Billson said small businesses in dispute with the ATO would get the fairer go, under new rules proposed by the Australian Government.

Mr Billson welcomed the announcement, giving the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) greater powers to pause or change debt recovery actions applying to a small business in dispute with the ATO. “Small businesses disputing an ATO debt in the AAT will get a fairer go by stopping the ATO from relentlessly pushing on with debt recovery actions against a small business, while the case is being heard,” Mr Billson says.

O

“I commend the government which has acted quickly to implement a key recommendation in our recently released report.

“It is a tax system that works for small business which will allow them to pause ATO debt recovery actions until their case is resolved by the AAT.

Debt recovery action “Currently, small businesses are only able to pause or modify ATO debt recovery actions through the court system. This can be prohibitively expensive and time consuming for a small business.

“Under the proposed changes, small businesses can save thousands of dollars in legal fees, not to mention up to two months waiting for a ruling.

“In line with the recommendations in our report, the AAT will be able to pause or modify any ATO debt recovery actions, such as garnishee notices, interest charges and other penalties until the dispute is resolved by the AAT. “It means that rather than spending time and money fighting in court, small

business owners can get on with what they do best – running and growing their business.

“These proposed changes follow the ATO’s decision to turn its small business independent review service into a permanent offering,” Mr Billson said.

“ASBFEO’s tax concierge service and ongoing advocacy work has led to substantial tax administration improvements for SMEs, with leadership from ATO Deputy Commissioner Small Business Deborah Jenkins and government support.

“Collectively, these changes align with ASBFEO’s vision of a tax system that works for the small business sector, so businesses can achieve greater productivity, return to profitability and grow employment.”

The new powers for the AAT will be available following introduction of the legislation.

Small businesses engaged in a tax dispute are encouraged to contact ASBFEO for assistance on 1300 650 460 or email info@asbfeo.gov.au .

SporT

ISSUE 15 | October 2021

31

Eels regroup for 2022 season ARRAMATTA Eels' 2021 NRL season finished with an 8 to 6 knockout final loss to eventual premiers Penrith in Rockhampton.

For the third time in four years, the Brad Arthur coached squad reached the finals.

The Eels have been consistent, all so close, yet so far, in their quest to break a premiership drought since 1986.

Brad Arthur has been with the Eels for eight seasons and is under contract till the end of 2022.

The Eels boast a talented squad with a good smattering of youth and experience.

It is a squad that boasts several NSW origin representative players, namely captain Clint Gutherson, Mitchell Moses, Junior Paulo and Reagan Campbell-Gillard.

And hooker Reed Mahoney is tipped to play for Queensland in coming years.

The Eels have lost four of their squad for next year.

Veteran winger Blake Ferguson is headed to Japanese rugby union.

P

Clint Gutherson.

Hooker Joey Lussick has signed with British Super League club St Helens.

Samuel Hughes and Michael Oldfield have been released.

Several players including forward Bryce Cartwright are staying. Cartwright

Brad Arthur.

is signed until 2023, so too young winger Haze Dunster.

One player who remains unsigned is utility player Will Smith.

He can play fullback, in the halves and hooker.

Smith had a consistent season in 2021.

The Eels resume pre-season training in early November.

At this stage, the Eels have not made any major signings from other clubs.

Premiers after a gritty contest ENRITH Panthers are the NRL 2021 premiers with a gritty 14 to 12 grand final win over Souths at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday night in Brisbane.

Erasing memories of the sour feeling after losing to Melbourne, 26 to 20, in the NRL decider.

It is the club's third title, the first came in 1991, the second in 2003, the third this year.

Coach Ivan Cleary, in his third NRL grand final as coach, finally having a grand final win on his CV. His son, Nathan, won the Clive Churchill medal, the player of the grand final award.

Coach Ivan his Nathan's dad.

The father and son enter league history books, as a coach/player combination to celebrate a grand final triumph.

Ironically, a father/son grand final pairing happened in 2003, when coach John Lang his son, Martin, were at Penrith.

Penrith won the 2003 grand final over the Roosters.

P

Nathan Cleary.

Penrith led 8 to 6 at halftime n Sunday's grand final against Souths, in a bruising first half.

Centre Matt Burton scored the team's opening try, and tall winger Stephen Crichton, scored a 50 metre intercept

try in the 66th minute, with the Nathan Cleary conversion putting Penrith ahead 14 to 8.

The talented halfback also landed three goals.

Cleary, who played the final eight weeks of the season with a major shoulder injury, will have surgery this week.

He will undergo extensive rehabilitation in the off season.

His kicking in general play forced several line drop outs keeping Souths under extensive pressure.

Victorious coach Ivan Cleary praised his team's courage in the finals series with five players carrying injuries.

Fullback Dylan Edwads played heroically with a broken bone his foot, and was outstanding.

"There five guys who shouldn't have played out there," Cleary said.

"It is purely on courage these boys won it."

Halfback Nathan Cleary and lock Isaah Yeo co-captained the premiers this year leading by example with their stellar form.

WHERE TO GET THE TIMES ParramattA

ISSUE 11 | June 2021

Grab a copy of the Parramatta Times at any of these popular distribution outlets Winston Hills Shopping Mall Caroline Chilsholm Dr Shops Parramatta LGA libraries Toongabbie Bowling Club Carlingford Bowling Club Holiday Inn Parramatta Mercure Parramatta Lake Parramatta Shops

Northmead Sports Cub Westmead Sub newagency Westmead Health precinct Parramatta KPMG Building Parramatta Chamber Events SOP Quest SOP Novotel Merrylands Bowling Club

| www.parramattatimes.com.au

T I M E S

Voice of Australia’s most

progressive city

DON’T GO BATTY PARRAMATTA PARK USERS

FEAR BAT BITES W

HILE Western Sydney Local “I don’t want people Health District (WSLHD) to think that bats from the camp of 15,000 is urging community grey-headed members to ĝying foxes are going avoid handling bats after to swoop down on the Aus- them. Bats tralian bat lyssavirus may annoy people living (ABLV) was recently near them with noise and detected among bats smell but they are in the area, a essential for pollinating expert doesn't want Parramatta wildlife native trees and Park users have been to go all batty. there before European settlement.”’

“The simple message is that you can only Still, 11 people have been be infected by bats if referred to the you handle e them– Public Health Unit at such as picking up injured Westmead Hospital bats or trying to after being scratched or bitten free them from netting,” by bats so said Sandra ndra Guy far this year. from Sydney Wildlife Rescue Service. rvice.

Story page 3.

w w w. w e x p o . c o

Relevance a Chamber priority: 10 Facelift for justice pillar: 12 The new trend in travel: 16

ParramattA

m.au

CONNEC T & GROW YOU AND YOUR www.parramattat rramattatimes.co imes.com.au m.au BUSINES S IN PARRAM ATTA & WESTER N SYDNEY

ISSUE 12 | July 2021 |

23 SEPTEMBER 2021 CLUB PARRAMA T TA

Cumberland Council The Fiddler Hotel Granville RSL Cumberland Council Library Parramatta Council Cafés in Parramatta LGA

THIS EDITION Lord Mayor popular vote: 5 Lighyt Rail structure in place: 7

T I M E S

CBD PLAN

ON TRACK

W

ITH hardly any time to spare, Parramatta Council submitted its CBD planning proposal to the State Government before going into caretaker mode ahead of the September 4 local government election.

The proposal,

w w w. w e x p o . c o

m.au

23 SEPTEMBER 2021 CLUB PARRAMA T TA

eight years in the making, sets the building codes and planning strategies for Sydney’s second CBD and the State Government was getting antsy over the time council was taking in submitting the code for ratification.

See page 3.

Voice of Australia’s most

Artist impression of a future

progressive city

Parramatta CBD.

THIIS E THIS EDITIO DITION N

Seniors have reasons to

be chirpy: 15

Where the kids are the artists:

CONNEC T & GROW YOU AND YOUR BUSINES S IN PARRAM ATTA & WESTER N SYDNEY

NEVER MISS OUT. Get the digital edition 24/7 at www.parramattatimes.com.au

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ParramattA T I M E S

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ISSUE 15 | October 2021

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