Western News 21 February 2020

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Friday, 21 February 2020

ISSUE 103

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Exceptional Care Mount Druitt Palliative Care provide first class care to patients and support to families.

They have just received well deserved funding to enhance their facility. See page 6 for full story.

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2020 Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge Once again, St Marys Rugby League Club will be giving two young local students the opportunity of a lifetime...to participate in the fully funded Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge, trekking the Kokoda Trail in late September 2020.

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ow in its 15th year, the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge program aims to create a greater awareness of the sacrifices of the Diggers on the Kokoda campaign among our young people, to ensure the tradition lives on. At the same time, it instills in its participants a commitment to community service and enhances their personal development by providing an opportunity for them to experience the same conditions under which our Diggers fought. It is a transformational experience for those that have been lucky enough to participate and one that St Marys Rugby League Club is proud to support and offer 2 lucky students.

Last year’s Trekkers were selected from an incredibly high calibre of applicants with Club President Warren Smith saying, “Every year, the applicants just seem to be even more impressive, the final 2 we selected impressed us enormously and we were thrilled to sponsor them on this lifechanging Trek”.

The 2019 Trekkers were 17-year-old Katie Dal Santo from Penrith Christian School and Connor Burke, also 17, from Jamison High School. Both Katie and Connor returned from the trek with a completely different perspective and ready to take on their final year of high school with gusto.

Reflecting on her experience, Katie commented “I’ve come back home with so much more confidence and memories and feel honoured to be a custodian of Kokoda and pass on my new knowledge of Kokoda to others. Mum said I have this new confident aura around me; I haven’t really stopped talking since I got home!”

If you know a year 10, 11 or 12 student that has a passion for the history of Kokoda, is committed to their local community and is a future leader in the making, encourage them to talk to their school.

Application forms have been sent to 25 local schools and final interviews will take place before the end of Term 1 with the 2020 Trek booked for September 26th – October 7th this year.

Healthy start to high school: immunisation reminder

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estern Sydney Local Health District nurses will start visiting schools to vaccinate more than 22,000 Year 7 and 10 students throughout the year and parents are being encouraged to provide consent.

Caroline Scott, School Vaccination co-ordinator said vaccines are important to protect children against diseases including whooping cough and human papillomavirus.

“Making sure that all children are up to date with their immunisations reduces their risk of getting a serious illness,” Ms Scott said.

“The vaccines offered to Year 7 students will help protect them from diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and human papillomavirus (HPV).

“The vaccine offered to Year 10 students provides protection from four strains of meningococcal bacteria.”

Ms Scott said information kits will be sent home with their child which parents should read, sign, and return.

“The most important thing for parents is to ensure your child’s signed consent form gets back to school.”

Protecting children from potentially deadly diseases is a key priority for the NSW Government, which has invested approximately $130 million in the 2019-20 Immunisation Program budget, including Commonwealth and state vaccines.

Since 2013, the NSW Government has committed $5.5 million towards the Save the Date vaccination campaign, including $1 million spent on the campaign in 2018.

On-time vaccination and overall participation

WSLHD School Vaccination Program team leader Annette Whitten speaks with a student from Evans High School.

in childhood immunisation programs continues to improve in NSW, with 94.5 per cent of children fully vaccinated by five years of age in the past 12 months compared with 90.8 per cent in 2012.

To help students prepare for immunisation,

WSLHD has information for students and parents here: www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/Immunisation If students miss any vaccinations, catch-up days will be available. For more information call WSLHD Vaccination Team on 9840 3603.

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lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has handed over the keys to a commuter bus to Walcha Council as part of Council’s continuing bushfire relief and recovery program.

The new 25-seat bus is on loan to Walcha Council for 3 months to assist in the transport of BlazeAid volunteers as they rebuild many kilometres of fencing that were destroyed in devastating bushfires that swept through northern areas of New South Wales before Christmas.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “We are the biggest council in NSW and have so far been untouched by the bushfires, therefore we are more than happy to step in and help where we can, including providing transport for the BlazeAid teams that are doing such a great job in the Walcha district.

“Blacktown City Council is one of the key members of the Local Government Bushfire Recovery Support Group which has been established to match council requests for assistance with offers of people and equipment from councils not impacted by the bushfires.

“Walcha Council indicated there was a need for transport for the BlazeAid volunteers and two days later we handed over the keys.

“Blacktown City Council already has people working in the Recovery Support Group, Wingecarribee Shire Council, Shoalhaven City Council and Hawkesbury City Council,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The Blacktown City Council Bushfire Appeal has so far coordinated the collection and delivery of more than 25 tonnes of food and essential supplies to bushfire ravaged areas.

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Blacktown bus for Walcha BlazeAid bushfire relief

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Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale (right) hands over the keys to Noel O’Brien of Walcha Council.

The Appeal has also raised more than $65,000 in donations.

Blacktown City Council has committed up to $2 million for its bushfire response and recovery operations over the next 12 months.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is also committing resources to help in the recovery effort in the Walcha district. The ADF is helping out in the small communities of Yarrowitch and Nowendoc after Walcha Council applied for assistance through the NSW Office of Emergency Management.

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Walcha Council Mayor, Eric Noakes said, “The support Walcha Council has received from city and regional councils, government departments and agencies has been overwhelming. We are especially thankful for the practical help in this instance from Blacktown City Council and the Australian Defence Force.

“Councils throughout NSW, especially those such as Walcha Council, are doing a fantastic job supporting their communities in these difficult times.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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Western News Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sports Journalist: Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Sports Journalist: Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com

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And if you’re as patriotic as me, you’ll feel a lump in your throat right now at the news of Holden’s US parent company General Motors this week announcing it would retire the iconic Holden brand and close down its Australian operations.

I feel sad now hearing and watching that advertising jingle, as incredibly simple as it was, because it has reminded me of back when we had a clear identity and we weren’t afraid to be proud of it.

I know as an Aussie kid I always felt proud to be as Aussie as footy, pies, roos and Holdens... didn’t you? None of those things represented any kind of evil view towards anything. Put the obvious advertising aside, and it was a simple message: we all love Australia and the things that make us unique.

Riverstone

Schofields

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f you’re as old as I am, you grew up singing along and knowing the words to all the ads on TV - because remotes and fast-forward buttons were unheard of.

These days brand Australia has been sabotaged by those who want to say patriotism equals racism, blocks out globalism and all the rest of the rot those nutters want to run with.

Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

Western News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

By KeRRIE DAVIES

And if you are a Gen Xer like me, or older, chances are you sang along to this little jingle: We love football, meat pies, kangaroos and holden cars.

Sales: Larry Davis 0432 062 643

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From the Editor’s Desk

Every time one of those things goes walkabout, it’s like another gum leaf gets ripped off our once luscious tree.

Scomo couldn’t catch a break right now even if I threw him one. We are living in a time where absolutely everything that happens is somehow supposedly his fault.

But not this time. Holden reps were saying years ago that they were unable to survive as a manufacturer if they weren’t competitive. And while there were many factors involved and I’m not suggesting this was the sole reason for failure, they weren’t looking at Scomo to give them a break, they were needing to address the production costs.

It’s all well and good to fight to protect workers’ rights, but all the rights under the sun aren’t worth a razoo if the company supplying the jobs shuts down.

RIP Holden. The end of an era.

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Western News 21 February 2020 Issue 103

Waitangi Day

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lacktown City Council has hosted a Waitangi Day Ceremony and a Waitangi Festival in conjunction with the Maori Wardens Association Australia.

Waitangi Day, named after Waitangi where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, is a significant day in the history of New Zealand.

The Waitangi Day ceremony was held on Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM Thursday 6 February at the at the Waitangi Day ceremony.

Pou in the South Sea Islands Garden, in Nurragingy Reserve in chants to invoke spiritual guidance Doonside. The Maori ceremony and protection. The ceremony was invoked spiritual guidance and followed by a small sampling and taste protection. of Maori food arranged by the Maori “This year marks the 179th Wardens. Approximately 40 students, anniversary of the 6 February signing staff and parents from Blacktown of the Treaty of Waitangi,” Blacktown North Public School also attended.

City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM “Blacktown City is home to 395,000 said. people, with more than 3,500 people “Waitangi Day presents an having Maori background,” Mayor opportunity to reflect on the agreement Bleasdale said. made between the Maori chiefs of The Waitangi Festival, consisting New Zealand and the British Crown of a full stage program, arts and and commemorates the signing of craft stalls, food stalls and numerous New Zealand’s founding document.” activities was held at Mount Druitt The ceremony comprised a Swimming Centre on Saturday 8 Karakia service and included ritual February.

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$50k upgrade for Mount Druitt palliative care

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atients, families and carers will soon benefit from refurbishments to the Mount Druitt Hospital’s palliative care unit, thanks to a $50,000 boost from the NSW Government.

Western Sydney LHD Supportive and Palliative Care nursing unit manager, Trish Dalgleish, said the funds will go toward upgrading the unit’s courtyard, which is used by patients when sharing meals with families, friends and carers.

The planned upgrades include improvements to the water feature, BBQ area and seating.

“The courtyard is also a much-needed place of tranquility and comfort for those who might just need some time for reflection. Comfortable surroundings help people retain their dignity in an end-of-life phase,” Trish said.

“The upgrade will contribute greatly to people’s peace of mind by helping create a ‘home away from home’ environment for patients, their families and carers while they are with us.”

The Supportive and Palliative Care Unit at Mount Druitt Hospital opened in June 1998 and provides assessment and symptom control for patients requiring supportive or end-of-life care. The 16-bed

The water feature is a favourite place of quiet reflection for patients.

unit cares for more than 400 patients a year who stay for an average of 10 days. [HV(SL1] The Mount Druitt Hospital’s unit is one of 34 palliative care facilities across the state to be refurbished over the next two years, with planning underway for additional projects from 2021.

The NSW Government committed $10 million in 2019 for palliative care facility refurbishments, as

part of a $45 million enhancement over four years for palliative care, announced in the 2019-20 NSW budget.

Dr Nigel Lyons, Deputy Secretary, Health System Strategy and Planning, NSW Health, said the refurbishments to more than 34 palliative care facilities across the state will make a real difference to the experiences patients have in hospital at the end of life.

“Ensuring that our patients, their families and carers receive quality palliative care in a safe, comfortable and home-like environment is a priority for NSW Health,” Dr Lyons said.

This funding is part of the $10.1 billion the NSW Government is investing in health infrastructure over the next four years to upgrade and build 29 hospital and health facilities.

The NSW Government’s 2019-20 Budget commitment also includes recruitment of 100 new palliative care nurses, more Aboriginal Health Workers, and support for digital health to improve access to palliative care. This is in addition to the $100 million palliative care package announced in the 2017-18 Budget.

Heart research poised to ‘turn healthcare on its head’

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he diagnosis of serious heart conditions could soon be revolutionised thanks to a study underway at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

Associate Professor Saurabh Kumar is leading a study into the use of convenient, wearable heart-monitoring technology – such as an Apple Watch – to diagnose heart rhythm disorders that can lead to serious complications, including stroke and cardiac arrest.

The study not only received an $185,000 National Heart Foundation Vanguard grant, but also the additional honour of the $10,000 Ross Honen Award for the most innovative grant application.

Saurabh, who is an electrophysiologist or “electrician of the heart”, believes the findings could create a “paradigm shift” that empowers patients and delivers significant savings to the health system.

“Heart rhythms disorders or arrhythmia are now the most common heart-related hospital admission, but they can be quite difficult to

Professor Saurabh Kumar

diagnose,” Saurabh said.

“Our best diagnostic tools, including an ECG or a holter monitor, only get a result about 30 per cent of the time.

The problem is the patient’s rhythm has often returned to normal by the time they are tested, and it might be weeks or months before they have another episode.

“For some patients this can mean 10 or 15 hospital visits before they even get a diagnosis. Anything we can do to

speed up that first step will have a great impact on their health outcomes.”

Saurabh’s hope is patients could monitor their own episodes of arrhythmia with discreet technology they always have on them, rather than needing to be in hospital or fitted with a bulky holter monitor, allowing for much faster diagnosis.

His earlier studies have been funded by organisations including the Westmead Research and Education

Network and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand.

The current study involves a robust assessment of the accuracy and reliability of different products against the proven medical diagnostic tools, as well as a randomised trial between devices to determine whether these products or a take-home holter monitor provide an earlier diagnosis.

“With the technology and artificial intelligence available now, we are on the cusp of major change. The findings of this study could turn the concept of healthcare on its head,” Saurabh said.

“If these devices prove to be accurate and reliable then we can provide rapid diagnosis, empower patients and create better outcomes, while also delivering substantial savings to the health system.”

Saurabh and the research team aim to report on the results of the current study by the end of the year, and are hoping to expend into further testing with high-risk groups including people with diabetes, lung disease and blood clotting disorders.

Nominees announced for 2020 Women of the West Awards Western Sydney University is pleased to announce the nominees for the 2020 Women of the West Awards.

Nominated for their substantial contributions to the Western Sydney community, twenty remarkable women have been recognised across the categories of Woman of the West (Business), Woman of the West (Community) and Young Woman of the West (18 to 30 years old).

This year’s group of diverse and talented nominees include women who are making a difference in areas such as: small business development, educational attainment, health promotion, community wellbeing and

social integration.

The University’s Acting Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Denise Kirkpatrick, offered her congratulations to the nominees.

“The Women of the West Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding contribution women make to Greater Western Sydney.

We are pleased to celebrate their leadership, dedication and the unique voices that inspire so many within our community,” said Professor Kirkpatrick.

Winners of the Women of the West Awards will be announced on 13 March as part of the University’s

celebration of International Women’s Day. The awards will be presented in collaboration with the Coleman Greig Women in Business Forum at Waterview in Bicentennial Park.

Former Australian of the Year and family domestic violence campaigner Rosie Batty AO will be the keynote speaker at the event.

2020 Women of the West nominees Woman of the West (Business) Carole-Anne Priest Dawn Cady Debbie Roberts Louise Sparkes Howarth Michelle Byrne

Pat Hall Rosemary McKenzie-Ferguson Sue Tsigaros Woman of the West (Community) Bev Jordan Carina Fernandes Marama Mackay Maryam Zahid Ruby Campbell Sharon Robertson Young Woman of the West Aimee Paananen Anyier Yuol Kiara Osborne Ozge Karahuyuklu Reem Qrma Sampavi Sivakumar

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t was a special moment when breast cancer survivor Maryam Shahrestani painted her thumb green and pressed it to the wall in Blacktown Hospital.

Each thumb print forms a new leaf on a beautiful, evolving artwork created by patients on the day they complete their treatment.

The visual concept was inspired by the hospital staff and patients of the Cancer and Haematology Centre at Blacktown Hospital.

Maryam made the latest addition to the wall when she completed her last day of cancer treatment this week, having been diagnosed with earlystage breast cancer after a routine mammogram in June last year.

“It was a huge surprise when they told me I had cancer – I just cried,” Maryam said.

“I lost my sister a few years ago to breast cancer so it brought back some sad memories.

“I encourage everyone including my friends, family and colleagues that it’s very important to have regular checkups with your GP and mammograms.”

Blacktown Hospital deputy director of radiation therapy Kim Gilarte said more than 50 finger or thumbs prints currently line the corridor.

“The prints are added each time a patient completes their treatment in the

Blacktown Hospital patient Maryam Shahrestani leaves her mark as she completed her cancer treatment.

infusion services or radiation therapy department,” Kim said.

“A former cancer patient painted the tree in 2016 and has been painting them for us ever since.

“The staff love the trees because it’s great for the patients to leave their mark in the department and to signify the patient has completed that part of their journey.

“We treat patients from the age of 16 up to 90 years, so the trees also act as a visual reminder of the number of patients we have helped finish their treatments.”

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Thumb print celebrates cancer patients’ final day of treatment

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Time to vote: who’s your favourite nurse or midwife?

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estern Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is calling on the community to nominate an outstanding nurse or midwife for a People’s Choice Award as part of this year’s International Nurses and Midwives Day celebrations.

WSLHD Nursing & Midwifery and Clinical Governance director Caroline Farmer said the People’s Choice Award is an opportunity for our community to thank our hardworking nurses and midwives in western Sydney.

“Every day our nurses and midwives help improve the lives of the patients, carers and their families,” Caroline said.

“It’s always a pleasure to hear the positive experiences from our community.

“This is your opportunity to acknowledge the nurse or midwife who has made a real difference to you or your loved ones.”

The People’s Choice award winner and nominator will be invited to attend the WSLHD International Nurses and Midwives Day celebration on Tuesday 5 May. The WSLHD nurse or midwife must work for a WSLHD facility (Auburn, Cumberland, Mount Druitt, Blacktown, Westmead hospitals or a WSLHD community health centre).

Submit your nomination by visiting www.surveymonkey.com/r/ PeoplesChoice2020

2019 WSLHD Nursing & Midwifery People’s Choice Award winner Nina Livingstone.

Patients, carers, family members and staff are encouraged to nominate.

Voting closes Friday 13 March.

The 2019 People’s Choice Award was won by WSLHD Youth Health registered nurse Nina Livingstone, who works with youth and at risk young people. She was described as

someone who goes above and beyond her duties as a nurse.

The World Health Organisation has designated 2020 the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife in recognition of their vital role in global health care.

WSLHD will benefit from the

NSW Government’s $2.8 billion commitment to recruit a record 8,300 frontline health staff over the next term, including 5,000 additional nurses and midwives.

For more information: www.health. nsw.gov.au/nursing/employment/ Pages/default.aspx

Smoke-free dining reminder after local restaurants fined

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ocal restaurants are reminded to provide smoke-free dining after two restaurants in Parramatta and Merrylands received fines for allowing smoking in outdoor dining areas.

The Smoke-free Environment Act 2000 bans smoking in some outdoor public places, such as restaurants, to limit second-hand smoke exposure.

Dr Shopna Bag, WSLHD Public Health Director said there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke.

“Second-hand smoke includes

smoke from a burning cigarette, smoke breathed out after inhaling from a lit cigarette, and smoke from a tobacco water-pipe, also known as shisha or argile,” Dr Bag said.

“Breathing second-hand smoke can increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer and other lung diseases.

It can also worsen the effects of other illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis.”

For more than four years, NSW Local Health Districts have worked with local businesses to provide education about smoke-free dining requirements.

“In western Sydney, we’ve staged our approach to provide the community and businesses with plenty of time to adjust to the ban on smoking in commercial outdoor dining areas. Unfortunately, some business owners have continued to allow it,” Dr Bag said.

“We’ll continue to investigate complaints and provide education and support to businesses about the Smoke-free Environment legislation.

Businesses and individuals who ignore the law are exposing themselves to a potential prosecution.”

Business owners who allow

smoking in a commercial outdoor dining area face fines of $1,100 (sole trader) or $5,500 (company) and individual smokers caught smoking in a commercial outdoor dining area may risk a $300 on the spot fine by authorised officers from NSW Health.

The NSW Ministry of Health and Cancer Institute NSW are investing $17.3 million on tobacco control in 2019-20. This includes public awareness and education campaigns, quit smoking support, compliance and enforcement of strong smokefree and retailing laws, and targeted programs for vulnerable groups with high smoking rates.

To lodge a complaint about businesses allowing smoking in commercial outdoor dining areas, anyone can phone the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412 (English speaking line) or 13 14 50 (non-English speaking line).

Or, record details using the online complaint form at www.health.nsw. gov.au/tobacco/Pages/let-us-knowreports-complaints.aspx All complaints will be dealt with confidentially.

For information on quitting smoking, visit Quitline: www. icanquit.com.au or phone 13 78 48, or www.shishanothanks.org.au

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ioneering researcher, Westmead Hospital cardiologist and Professor of Medicine Clara Chow is in the running to become the NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year.

Professor Chow is one of three women nominated for this year’s award, which will be presented

by Women NSW and the NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

The cardiologist, who is the first female president to be elected to the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand, has been recognised for her passion for preventing poor health outcomes from cardiovascular disease.

“I’m excited to be nominated – it’s amazing that initiatives in the area of health are being recognised in these awards,” Professor Chow said.

“It will be really great for women to be recognised as leading the way in cardiovascular management.”

In 2015, Clara led the development of a new model of care in Australia that enables rapid cardiologist-led review of patients suspected to have cardiac disease. The model has been shown to reduce unnecessary hospital admission.

In 2016, she won the Google Impact Challenge award, which supports innovative ideas with potential for global impact, to develop a textmessage based education and support program for patients with coronary heart disease.

In 2019, Clara was awarded a $1m Google grant to develop a customised digital program to continue her research in reducing the risk of heart disease –

the biggest cause of death globally.

Over the last five years, as Academic Director of the Westmead Applied Research Centre, Clara has attracted over $130 million in research funding.

Western Sydney Local Health District chief executive Graeme Loy congratulated Professor Chow on her nomination.

“Professor Chow is an outstanding cardiologist and researcher, and she is undoubtedly an

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Cardiology powerhouse Clara Chow nominated for NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year

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inspiration to women looking to pursue a career in health,” Graeme said.

“This is a really exciting moment for the Westmead Health Precinct and for women in research and medicine. I wish Clara all the best with this award, we are all very proud of you.” More information about the NSW Women of the Year Awards can be found here: https://www.women. nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/women-of-the-year

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

The French country side

Boating down the Loire

The aristocrats drank wine for pleasure, the peasants to stay alive

By BEN CRANNEY

‘Take a big sniff of the wine. Can you smell the flint?’ Well, yes, because you just passed around an actual piece of flint and had us smell it first.

I love going on winery tours. I’m not a big wine drinker, but I love the tradition, the smells, the passion and the wankery. This was by far the best wine tour I’d been on, and not because there was heaps of wankery, but because our guide was so passionate and gave us an incredible understanding of the wine making process and traditions.

How the French generally still prefer a corked bottle, even though screw tops have been shown to taste and keep better. How they make white wine from the same grapes as red by

not using the grape skins. And how, by smelling a bit of flint first, you can convince yourself that you can smell the soil the grapes were grown in.

This was central France’s Sancerre region, a place known for its wine ever since the Romans cultivated grapes here 2000 years ago. The town sits on top of a chalky outcrop, the same chalk as the British Cliffs of Dover.

And it has a view to match. From the top of the town, past the cobbled stones and medieval buildings, through the outdoor restaurants and their gastronomically delightful smells, are views over the vineyard covered hills that disappear into the horizon.

Cycling is a popular way to get around. You need to be fit to manage

The view from Sancerre

the hills, but peddling through fields broken only by ancient stone farm sheds is a highlight. But not the highlight. That honour goes to the boat ride down the Loire. With a basket of breadrolls, cheese and cured meat, and a bottle of flinty red, it’s a floating picnic down one of Europe’s most important rivers. Over the millennia, it’s been a trading route between the Celts and Greeks, supported Iranian settlers, allowed Vikings to raid deep into France, and marked the border between the English and French

during the 100 years war. But you don’t need to know about any of this to enjoy the boat ride.

But if you do go in for the history, you’ll see a lot of it comes back to wine. The local museum explains the area’s geology in terms of its effects on wine production. The history lessons in the chalets and palaces will teach you how medieval peasants drank wine because it was safer than water. And you’ll wonder if the Romans sat around talking about the ‘flinty undertones’.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel God Speed

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think my father is getting bored. He has taken up residence in our rumpus room in an armchair with a lamp behind it and when the lamp is turned on he takes a mischievous delight in causing the light to flash at odd intervals, especially if I ever talk about him. He has plenty of opportunity during the dark winter months when the lamp is lit and has given quite a turn to many a client when he suddenly makes his presence felt, but he doesn’t have much of a chance during the long summer evenings, so just recently he has taken to turning the main overhead light on when either David or I have definitely turned it off. Doors which we have consciously left open have quietly closed or conversely those we have closed have opened of their own accord.

However, the time he really comes into his own is during any cricket match between Australia and England. When he was alive, he had a great sense of humour. David loved to tease him and he took it all in good part - except when it came to cricket! At that time The Dream Team with Warnie, Glen McGrath, the Waugh brothers et al overcame everything in sight and gave England a severe drubbing in the Ashes. David crowed. Daddy was not amused.

Fast forward a couple of decades. David and I were watching the deciding match of the last Ashes series.

England had only scored 67 in the first innings and were being skittled out rapidly in the second. David was practically doing a victory dance when suddenly a voice from the armchair said “It’s not over yet.”

What? I turned to the sound of the voice to see my

father sitting there. “They can’t win from here”, I said. “Oh yes they can,” he replied smugly. And he was right, Ben Stokes leading England home to victory by one run and a slightly questionable umpire’s decision.

Now this was amazing in more ways than one.

Not only had he got the result right, but it was in fact the first time I had been aware of him since the night before his funeral when he made a farewell appearance. I had been very close to my father and could never quite understand why he had not ever come back to me, but I came to realise that it was probably his stubborn nature that was stopping him. He never really believed in what I did and whenever I talked about it, he would harrumph into his moustache muttering things like “Tommy rot” or “I think she’s gone mad”. He even had a near death

experience and took great delight in telling me that instead of beautiful light and the family lined up to escort him, there was nothing but a black void!

This also made me think of those left behind who don’t believe and who get quite a shock when a dearly departed pops in. I had a wonderful friend called Annie who I met through that sort of psychic network which in our case spanned Continents. I only met Annie a few times as we lived quite a long distance apart, but we spoke on the telephone often and became firm friends. Sadly, Annie developed pancreatic cancer and died quite soon after her diagnosis. Her friend Heather who was not in any way a believer, took her to all her doctor’s appointments and stayed with her until the end. On her way home after Annie’s death, she suddenly and very clearly heard Annie’s voice saying, “Whee! It’s wonderful. I’m flying with the angels.” I think we can safely say that Heather is now quite convinced that there is life after death.

In the past month, I have lost two very dear friends. Both were unexpectedly diagnosed with stage four cancer in December and both passed away within a short space of time. One has already been in touch and although I can still hear her voice, I do so hope the other person will contact me. So may I just finish on a personal note. God bless you Bob and God speed Babe. The world is a poorer place without you both.

The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

Western News

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Western News 21 February 2020 Issue 103

Blacktown Sports Awards

A

ustralia’s top freestyle indoor skydiver, Amy Watson, is Blacktown City’s 37th Sportsperson of the Year.

The 14-year-old was Australia’s only sole representative at the World Championships in France in 2019.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said: “Amy began at the tender age of nine and has since gone on to impress everyone around her.

“Amy has won multiple national and international titles and she is a very fitting recipient for Blacktown City’s Sportperson of the Year.

“Her persistence, hard work and dedication has seen her efforts paid off at such an early age.

“Amy is an inspiration not only for Blacktown’s sporting community but also for our entire community,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

International soccer representative Jessika Nash was named Junior Sports Person of the year.

“Jessica captained the junior Matilda’s in the Asian Cup in September last year.

“She was the youngest in the team and was rewarded with player of the match against China.

“The Junior Matildas came in 4th place equalling Australia’s best ever international results,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Jessika is also an active and integral member of the Hills Sports High Girls Cricket team who have been State Champions two years in a row.

One of the most prestigious Awards for the evening was the Mayor’s Shield.

This award is selected by the Mayor of Blacktown City. The recipient is a resident who has made an outstanding contribution to a sport or sporting organisation for many years.

Mayor Bleasdale presented the 2020 Mayor’s Shield award to Steve Warwick who has built the Blacktown District Rugby League Spartans up from scratch.

“Steve is an exceptional talent who has dedicated his time to footy for over 20 years,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Steve started Africa United in 2012 and this year they won their first trophy at the Cabra 9a.

“He has been instrumental in introducing the sport to the youth from the African community, inspiring youngsters to turn the sport into a career, and inspiring parents to become more involved in rugby league.”

Blacktown Sports Awards winners: Sports Person of the Year: Amy Watson – Indoor Skydiving Sports Coach of the Year: Justine Sangalang – Taekwondo Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Jessika Nash – Soccer Sports Volunteer of the Year: Robert Fitzgerald – Netball Sports Official of the Year: Jim Staader – Target Pistol Shooting

Australian Olympic Swimming Legend Shane Gould (3rd from left) joins Mayor Tony Bleasdale and all the category winners at the Blacktown City Sports Awards presentation.

Team of the Year: Ponds FC Premier League – Soccer Club of the Year: Doonside Little Athletics – Athletics Mayor’s Shield: Steve Warwick – Rugby League Mayor Bali congratulated every nominee in the 2020 Sports Awards.

“To have been nominated is a fantastic achievement in itself and you should all be very proud of yourselves and your sporting accomplishments,” he said.

“I wish you all the best of luck in your future sporting endeavours.”

Blacktown City Council has been presenting Sports Awards since 1983, recognising the City’s sports men, women, boys and girls.

The program involves people of all ages and levels of competition, and promotes sports and sporting clubs within the community.

Sue Sim – Administrator of the Year Sue Sim is the administrator to all 24 BDSFA affiliated clubs; she mentors and supports all of the affiliated clubs to achieve required reporting and administration tasks in order to effectively ensure all players are able to play each weekend.

Sue delivers an exceptional standard of support to all of her affiliated clubs; she ensures that everything that needs to be done is done each week to allow for the smooth running of the large competition. Sue has held a position with the association for 20 years and her contribution to the sport is astounding.

Doonside Little Athletics – Club of the year In the 2017-2018 season they had one team compete at the State Relay Championships. In the 2018-2019 season they had 15 teams compete at the State Relay Championships.

This included athletes aged 7 to 17 in both track and field events. They also hosted our annual gala day in October with over 450 athletes attending.

In the 2018-2019 athletic seasons, they introduced an Athlete With a Disability program, including new Club and Best Ever Records and an

Athlete With a Disability Athlete of the Year award at our end of season presentation.

This season they had two of their female athletes represent Australia at the Oceania Championships, both of them bringing home a medal in their events.

Justine Sangalang Robert – Coach of the year She has trained athletes to perform their best and win at International, National, State and Local tournaments representing their club, state and country. As a former Australian National team member who represented Australia at the 2014World Junior Championships.

She has shared her passion, love for the sport, knowledge to our developing young athletes who look up to her as their role model. She has continuously researched and kept abreast with changing competition sporting rules, styles, strategies and tactics to improve our developing young athlete’s games and taekwondo skills.

Robert Fitzgerald – Volunteer of the Year Robert has been a part of Blacktown City Netball Association and Pioneers Netball Club since 1979. He is the current Vice President of Blacktown Netball Association, and a coach, volunteer, President and life member of Pioneers Netball club.

The Club would not be able to function without him. From coach to president to umpire, Robert does it all as well helping out in all aspects of the day-to-day running of the club, whether it is coaching coordinator or as the club’s rules expert his commitment is unsurpassed.

Jim Staader – Sports Official of the Year Jim officiates at National, State and Local levels Jim constantly mentors Range Officers and encourages them to attain ever higher standards. For himself, he keeps himself up to date with rule and procedure changes as occur within the sport from time to time (Practical Pistol is an International sport).

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In 2019 he officiated at the IPSC National Championships hosted at Blacktown Pistol club. This event attracted some 340 competitors from across Australia and includes a handful of International entrants. Jim was Chief Range Officer for the event which was conducted over six days in March 2019. In that role he presided over about 40 subordinate Range Officers.

Ponds FC Premier League – Team of the Year Their Premier League side achieved the best result in the FFA Cup than any other Blacktown Club before. Our FFA Cup run reaches its pinnacle after beating a rep team 3 tiers above them and moved onto the 5th Round against one of the largest club in Australian Football history, Marconi Stallions.

Although the result didn’t go their way against a side that were 1st in the NPL1 competition (highest in NSW) we attracted a reach that needed to be seen to be believed.

Jessika Nash – Junior Sports Person of the Year She captained the junior Matilda’s in the Asian Cup (September 2019).

And was the youngest in the team.

Jess was rewarded with player of the match against China They played 5 games where they came in 4th place equalling Australia’s best results in history.

Jessika is also an active and integral member of the Hills Sports High Girls Cricket team who have been State Champions two years in a row.

Amy Watson – Sports Person of the Year At just 14 years old, Amy is Australia’s top freestyle indoor skydiver. She is also World Champion for Junior Freestyle 2019 and Won the title of Junior Freestyle World Champion for Indoor Skydiving in Lille, France.

Amy started flying as a sport when she was 9 years old after her birthday party at iFLY Downunder in Sydney’s west. Since then she’s competed in a host of national and international events and now has a number of achievements and titles to her name.

Western News 21 February 2020 Issue 103

12

WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

A Scotsman wrote our National Anthem

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

P

eter Dodds McCormick was born in Scotland at Port Glasgow in 1833, the son of Peter McCormick (Snr) and Janet (née Dodds). After completing his apprenticeship to a joiner in Scotland, the family migrated to Australia in 1855. Carrying on with his trade he was employed by the NSW Education Department. He began his involvement with Sydney’s St Stephen’s Church as a stonemason, working on the now demolished Phillip Street Church. Rev Hugh Darling was so impressed with his singing on the job he asked him to join the choir. Peter’s musical ability later allowed him to become the Precentor of the Presbyterian Church of NSW (a person whose duty it is to lead the congregation in the singing of psalms) which gave him the opportunity to conduct very large massed choirs. In March 1858 in a letter to the Editor of the SMH it was reported that Rev. James Cameron of the Free Presbyterian Kirk at Penrith was taking steps towards building a Presbyterian schoolhouse and place of worship at South Creek (St Marys). George Hope offered them a portion of his property. There was already a private school that had previously been in a temporary building that was on George Hope’s land, and two schools at South Creek in connection with the Church of England and the Catholic faith. In 1861, the residents of St Marys wanted education for their children and a formal application for the establishment of a “NonVested” National School at St Marys was sent to the National Board of Education. At that time the Board provided up to two-thirds of the cost of erecting and fitting out a school if an attendance of 30 pupils could be guaranteed and local patrons could be found to undertake the responsibility of raising the balance of the money and superintending the building of the school and taking a share in school conduct. The Presbyterian school once established was to be conducted as close as possible to the National system. A slab building with a good floor and shingled roof was provided by the National Board that measured 30x18 feet. The first teacher was Thomas Shore, a Londoner 47 years old but didn’t teach long and resigned at the end of 1861 due to the small income from the school fees and the difficulties due to lack of equipment. Next teacher was James Wainwright who complained of the inadequate supply of forms and he resigned in June 1863 declaring that “the schoolroom was unfit for a National School” due to wet weather that made it very unpleasant and caused a low attendance of only 14 pupils a week. In March 1863, Peter applied for a Teacher in a National School, and he was prepared to undergo the necessary exams and to attend the Fort Street Model School in Sydney where he will be paid £7 a month while training. On 4th June 1863, James Young from South Creek wrote a letter to the Secretary of the National Schools about a letter Peter had sent to him that he would make an application for appointment of Schoolmaster at St Marys after he attended the Model Training School. It seems that James was surprised because James Wainwright had told him that he had to hand over all the school books to him under the Secretary’s authority, but James had thought it wouldn’t be long before there was a National School established at St Marys and they would require the books and that the Secretary was aware of this because he was using them and he had promised Peter to teach the children who lived in the neighbourhood and Peter had said

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that the Secretary would allow them to remain in the custody of the Local Patrons of the School at South Creek. James said that after consulting with the Local Patrons on this subject, he would of course, give them to James Wainwright as the Secretary requested the Local Patrons to do. Another letter written by James Young to the Secretary of the newly named Board of National Education dated 17th June 1863 was letting them know about a meeting that was held by the local Patrons of the National School at South Creek for the purpose of considering the application for the appointment of Teacher-in-Charge from Peter Dodds McCormick who was studying at the Model Training school and the school had been closed for some time due to the difficulty of finding a suitable teacher.

With very high testimonials submitted in his favour, the meeting unanimously nominated Peter being the most eligible person, and they were satisfied by the zeal and energy exhibited by Peter in the course of education that their expectations are “he will be the means of taking the school to a far higher standard it has yet attained.” Peter started teaching there in 1863 and that year he married Emily Boucher who became a sewing teacher at the school, but she died in March 1866, Peter was only at the school for a year and his brother Robert took over for a year boarding with my GGG Grandparents James & Mary Ann Hackett.

In December 1867 Peter married Emma Elizabeth Dening who died in 1921 aged 84 years. Leaving South Creek In 1867, Peter went on to teach at the Presbyterian denominational school in Woolloomooloo and he later moved to Dowling Plunkett Street Public School in 1878 where he remained until 1885. In a letter to Mr R B Fuller dated 1 August 1913, Peter described the circumstances that inspired him to pen the lyrics of his famous song. “One night I attended a great concert in the Exhibition Building (opened in 1879) when all the National Anthems of the world were to be sung by a large choir with band accompaniment. This was very nicely done, but I felt very aggravated that there was not one note for Australia. On the way home in a bus I concocted the first verse of my song and when I got home, I set it to music. I first wrote it in the Tonic Sol-fa (a system of naming the notes of the scale, usually doh, ray, me, fah, soh, lah, ti used especially to teach the singing of all minor keys) then transcribed it into the Old Notation (Composers from the Classical, Romantic and later eras often used what is known as old notation) and I tried it on an instrument next morning and found it correct.

Strange to say there has not been a note of it altered since. Some alteration has been made in the wording, but the sense is the same.

It seemed to me to be like an inspiration and I wrote the words and music with the greatest ease”. Peter wrote “Advance Australia Fair” under the non de plume of “Amicus”. In 1907 the Premier of NSW Sir Joseph Carruthers declared “Advance Australia Fair” was now our National Anthem. On 3 September 1915 Peter formally registered his copyright. Survived by his second wife, Peter died childless at his home “Clydebank” at Waverley in October 1916 aged 83 years and was buried in Rookwood cemetery with his second wife Emma. His estate was valued for probate at £52. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

Sources: Sydney Morning Herald, Sun Sydney, Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser, Daily Telegraph, Macleay Chronicle, Trove online.

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Fill the grid so that every column, every row & every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

SOLUTIONS: 7 February EASY

medium

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Rigidity (9) 6 Celebrations (5) 9 Jaunty (7) 10 A gland found near the

kidneys (7) 11 Varnish (7) 12 A thousand thousands (7) 13 Pleased (9) 15 A literary style (5) 16 Breastplate (5) 19 Receiver (9) 22 Before long (7) 23 Rebuffed (7) 25 Small falcon (7) 26 Quip (7) 27 Gentle push (5) 28 Faiths (9)

solution 7/2/20

down 1 Thralls (5) 2 Modulate one’s speech (7) 3 Idiosyncrasies (7) 4 Moral principle (5) 5 Convulsive (9) 6 Front limb of a horse (7) 7 Stress (7) 8 Lustrous or brilliant (9) 13 Exuvia (9) 14 Deviating from the usual (9) 17 Lubricated (7) 18 Nemesis (7) 20 Sulking (7) 21 Trade stoppage (7) 23 The grave (5) 24 Hemispherical roofs (5)

Western News 21 February 2020 Issue 103

SUDOKU: EASY

13

Western News 21 February 2020 Issue 103

14

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

I

Western News

Why 2020 could be your year to buy property

f you’ve been thinking about purchasing your first property, 2020 might be the time to pounce.

Following a long-awaited correction, many property markets across Australia appear to have plateaued and are now once again increasing in value.

According to Corelogic, in January house price values in Sydney alone rose by 1.5 per cent, 6.7 per cent over the past quarter. While the average increase across the nation’s capital cities in just the first month of the year was 1.1 per cent.

Depending on who you speak to, this renewed growth may be attributed to a variety of factors.

This week we saw the Reserve Bank once again leave rates on hold at a record low 0.75 per cent. The central bank is widely expected to reduce the rate further to 0.5 per cent in the coming months.

Meanwhile, competition to lend money continues to heat up, helping to ensure lender interest rates remain low. Anecdotal evidence also points to an increased willingness from lenders to offer home loans to potential borrowers.

Many self-employed borrowers come up against the challenges in presenting financial information.

There are lenders who offer loans for self-employed borrowers who can’t hand over payslips and employment records. This means that, rather than the usual documentation, you prove your ability to service a loan using bank statements, declarations from your accountant and financial records.

First home buyers represented a large proportion of the total owner-occupied housing market excluding refinancing almost at 30% in early 2019 and is gradually shrinking. First home buyers experienced issues of affordability, saving for a deposit and a decrease in borrowing capacity to name a few. .

The Government’s First Home Loan Deposit Scheme is helping more people to gain a foot hold on the property ladder. The scheme works by providing a guarantee that will allow eligible first home buyers on low and middle incomes to purchase a home with a deposit of as little as five per cent (lender’s criteria apply).

While there are signs the market has eased its foot off the gas pedal, the prospect of further interest rate cuts in 2020 suggest prices will continue to soar.

Long story short the market is on the up and fear

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Western News

SPORT

S

tockland Elara, in partnership with Elara Limestone Cafe is proud to announce its community contribution to local grassroots soccer club, Marsden Park Galaxy FC ahead of its first competitive season.

Community-built, Marsden Park FC is set to join the Blacktown & Districts Soccer Football Association (BDSFA) this winter season, becoming the first Marsden Park club in the competition. Stockland Elara and Limestone Cafe have committed an $8,000 contribution that will be used towards the purchase of lightweight quality goals for the younger children and club’s new kit wear.

Mike Milligan, Elara Project Director for Stockland, said that the community contribution to Marsden Park FC is an important milestone in the growth of the local community.

“Stockland Elara is proud to support our local community and provide opportunities for residents to connect over a range of activities including team sport. Fostering our communities’ wellbeing and enhancing the lifestyle of our residents is extremely important to us.

“It has been amazing to see the Marsden Park Football Club grow from our Elara playing fields.

Together with Limestone Café, our contribution to the club is an example of our ongoing commitment to the development of the Marsden Park community.”

The Marsden Park club was started by an Elara resident, Vikrant Dogra, posting on a community Facebook

page looking for people to play soccer on the weekend. Eighteen months later, the club has seen significant growth in interest and numbers with players of all ages and abilities joining.

Russell Ferrao, Public Relations Manager for Marsden Park FC explains that the new sponsorship from Stockland Elara and Limestone Cafe is an exciting development for the club.

“The club is still in its early stages but our aim is to build a

fun, enthusiastic, fair, enjoyable environment for the children and adults to play soccer. We want to continue to bring local residents together and teach our children the importance of learning how to win and lose as a team. Our new sponsorships mark an exciting time for our football club, allowing our club to grow with quality equipment ahead of our first competitive season.”

The club is expected to launch over 20 teams this season with registration now open to anyone five years or

older. Currently, there are only three woman registered in the club so Marsden Park FC is also seeking players to form a women’s team.

The upcoming season commences in March 2020, teams are allocated mid-February however registrations are still open until mid-March. To register for a Marsden Park Galaxy FC team, please register online at the club’s website, www.marsdenparkfc. com.au or at the grounds on a designated registration day (dates available on the website).

Major Pennant competition under way

By Noel Rowsell

T

Leonay GC players Ben McArdle & Adam Brennen in action from the Leonay vs Windsor match.

Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

he rain held off for round Two of the 2020 Golf NSW Major Pennant competition, allowing all local clubs to finally start the representative golf season.

There were some strong wins for clubs from the Western Sydney Region, with Penrith GC rolling Castle Hill CC 6-1; Springwood CC with a strong 5.5-1.5 win over Antill Park GC, Leonay GC edging past Windsor CC 4-3, Richmond GC 5-2 over Royal Sydney GC, Twin Creeks CC 4-3 over Manly GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC 4-3 over The Lakes GC, whilst Glenmore Heritage Valley GC drew 3.5-3.5 with Lynwood CC (this match played at Oatlands due to extreme weather damage at Lynwood).

Losses on the day included Wallacia CC falling 6-1 to Strathfield GC, Dunheved GC falling 3-0 to Carnarvon GC and Fox Hills down 6.5-0.5 to North Ryde.

Round 3 on Feb 23 features Penrith hosting Camden Lakeside, Stonecutters Ridge hosting Fox Hills, Dunheved host Antill Park, Wallacia host Bexley and Leonay host Warringah, whilst Twin Creeks are away to Ryde-Parramatta, Glenmore Heritage Valley away to Massey Park, Richmond away to Kogarah, Springwood away to Carnarvon and Windsor away to Randwick.

Western News 21 February 2020 Issue 103

Stocklands Elara contributes to local football club

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Western News

SPORT

Friday, 21 February 2020

Western Sydney stumble in sloppy draw

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Wanderers have played out a disappointing 1-1 draw with the Newcastle Jets at a wet Bankwest Stadium on Saturday night.

Despite playing some of their best football in the first half and taking an early lead through a Mitchell Duke penalty, the Red and Black could not convert their chances and were forced to settle for a point after the Jets equalised with 15 minutes to go.

The draw means the Wanderers have now earned four points out of a possible six under interim head coach Jean-Paul de Marigny.

The Wanderers came out firing in the opening half hour, totally dominating the Jets who struggled to get out of their own half.

Pirmin Schwegler was the master in midfield as he orchestrated with his sublime passing as he constantly picked out teammates, notably Kamau who terrorised the visitors left side with his blistering pace.

It was no surprise when the

Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers

Wanderers took advantage of the weight of possession to take the lead after just four minutes after Kamau was brought down in the penalty area following a scintillating run.

Duke made no mistake from the penalty, smashing the ball down the middle, giving him a 100 per cent record (three from three) from the spot this season.

Duke was unlucky not to get a second just nine minutes later. Nicolai

Muller made a run to the byline and cut the ball back for Duke, who hit a first time shot only to see his effort rebound off the base of the left post.

Kamau looked like causing problems again down the right flank only to be brought down in a cynical challenge that earned his marker a yellow card on 20 minutes.

The Wanderers defence and goalkeeper Daniel Lopar had very little to do aside from making a terrific

save with his outstretched left boot to deny Millar in the dying minutes of the half.

Newcastle came out strongly in the opening five minutes of the second half, forcing Lopar into successive brilliant saves in the 47th minute, the first when he tipped a Dimi Petratos over the bar followed by a similar save to deny Steven Ugarkovic.

The Jets then hit the cross bar in the 56th minute before Daniel Georgievski produced some neat work on the left only to see his effort denied by a good save from Jets goalkeeper Lewis Italiano.

Italiano was again called into action in the 65th minute to deny Muller’s effort from just outside the box. But, it was the Jets who struck next when Millar equalised in the 75th minute.

The Western Sydney Wanderers will see this as a very disappointing result with the numerous chances missed in front of goal and dominating most of the match in tough and wet conditions.

The Wanderers look towards their match with Adelaide United who are having a good run of form at Bankwest Stadium on Friday 21 February.