Western News 23 July 2021

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Friday, 23 July 2021

ISSUE 140

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Brielle Scores Big

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Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

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Mayor defends graffiti management spending

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lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has strongly defended Council’s spending on graffiti removal and associated programs and street art projects.

A recent ‘News Local’ article highlighted Council’s $1.5 million annual spend on all graffiti management programs and labelled Blacktown City as ‘Sydney’s graffiti capital’ and “Graffiti hotspot.”

Mayor Bleasdale suggested the article would have been more factual if it had described Blacktown City as ‘Sydney’s graffiti reduction capital’ or ‘Blacktown City – where negative graffiti is replaced with street art and positive behaviour’.

“There is graffiti in every Council area, it’s just how a Council chooses to deal with it, that makes the difference,” Mayor Bleasdale.

“In Blacktown, we take a positive approach. We just don’t employ contractors to go around and remove graffiti when it’s reported, rather we have a full range of programs including

Mural in Riverstone

Street art in Mackenzie Walkway, Blacktown, part of the “It’s Our Thing” Graffiti diversion program.

school education, volunteer programs and a graffiti removal advice service for residents and business, “We work with Juvenile Justice and Parole and Probation officers to provide constructive community service for offenders and employ street artists to create great artworks at sites previously ‘tagged’ with graffiti.

“It’s also unwise to compare a Council (Blacktown City) that has a population of nearly 400,000 and an area of 240 square kilometres with a council (Inner West) with a population of 186,000 and an area of only 35 square kilometres or North Sydney Council with an area of just 10 square kilometres and 75,000 residents.

“Blacktown City Council spends about 0.2% of its annual total (balanced) budget of more than $640 million on its Graffiti management and reduction programs, representing about $3.75 per resident. Inner West Council spends almost a similar amount per head and North Sydney Council spends just over $3 per resident.

“On those figures, Blacktown City Council is spending $6,250 per square kilometre managing graffiti, whereas it’s costing North Sydney Council a huge $23,300 per square kilometre!

“Councils can be reactive to graffiti by just employing contractors to

‘cover-up or remove’ it, or councils like Blacktown City can be proactive and not only remove offensive graffiti but also join with the community, artists, volunteers, young offenders, youth groups, schools, those doing community service, to make a positive contribution,” said Mayor Bleasdale.

Blacktown City Council’s ‘It’s Our Thing’ graffiti management program video: https://www.facebook.com/ BlacktownCityCouncil/videos/its-ourthing/361174051721026/ Blacktown City Council graffiti management programs: • ‘Respect it Don’t Wreck it’ school education program. Nearly 15,000 primary students have participated over the past 4 years.

• ‘It’s Our Thing’ Part 3. 3 x street artworks installed in 3 laneways in Blacktown City..

• Commercial property program.

Council employs 2 x staff to remove graffiti from our CBDs, free of charge. Productivity Force contract targets smaller shopping precincts and provides employment opportunities for local young people.

• Blacktown & Mt Druitt Probation & Parole. Council has a partnership where local offenders remove graffiti, collect litter and mow nature strips. Last financial year,

local offenders removed 11,756m2 of graffiti.

• Green Screening. Council has planted kilometres of native shrubs along fence lines to screen out graffiti.

• Volunteer activities. We provide free materials to residents to remove graffiti from their properties and throughout their neighbourhoods.

Council also participates in NSW Graffiti Removal Day, where we are the biggest participating Council.

• Juvenile Justice. Partnership where local young offenders remove graffiti. We also participate in Youth Justice Conferences, a process where a young offender meets with the victim of their crime, and a resolution is made for the young offender to atone for their crime (this is usually graffiti removal work, which we arrange).

• Graffiti Removal Options Team which assists residents to remove graffiti from residential property.

• Graffiti Help Line which provides graffiti management advice to commercial property owners.

Main St laneway

Council opposes changes to rules governing developer contributions

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lacktown City Council has joined councils across New South Wales in strongly opposing proposed changes to rules governing developer infrastructure contributions in new housing developments.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said developer contributions fund land purchase and vital infrastructure in developing areas, including footpaths, cycleways, parks, open space, drainage and stormwater recycling.

“The NSW Government tried to sneak changes through Parliament during last month’s NSW Budget that threaten to defer and reduce critical developer payments to councils,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Government planning policies have resulted in huge growth in Blacktown City suburbs such as Marsden Park, Riverstone and Schofields.

“The NSW Government has said Blacktown’s North West Growth Area has the potential for 84,000 dwellings and a population of 256,000. It’s estimated that Blacktown City Council will spend $3.5 billion over 25-years on the local infrastructure required in these developing suburbs.

“It’s vital that public infrastructure is in place before families move in to the new estates and therefore Council must have access to the developer contributions to fund that infrastructure.”

Mayor Bleasdale said the proposed changes will have the greatest impact on Blacktown City Council because it shoulders the largest greenfields development burden.

“Under the changes, the NSW Government could regulate to collect a contribution from a development in Marsden Park and spend it in Potts Point – that’s outrageous.

“Our communities bear the brunt of density and development, they deserve to receive a public benefit in return.

“The system is broken – for years we have advocated for changes to the Essential Works List which currently prevents Council using developer contributions to build libraries, community centres and aquatic centres.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Opposition MPs, councils and Local Government NSW pushed back against the proposed changes and the legislation was sent back to a State Parliament Upper House Committee for review.

LGNSW President Linda Scott said, “I was surprised the NSW Government tried to push through changes that would result in potential deferral and reductions of these payments without even consulting councils and their communities.

“The changes could also result in the delay or removal of vital public projects, with funds not being made available to councils by developers until the completion of the project.”

Mayor Bleasdale said; “New estates shouldn’t have thousands of residents move in only to see new roads dug up for the drains to be built. Residents in new estates shouldn’t have to wait for years for parks, playgrounds, footpaths, pools, community centres – not to mention schools and adequate transport.

“The proposed changes might be good for developers, but it condemns vital community infrastructure to the very end of the process.

“I’m joining with Linda Scott and councils across the state in calling on the NSW Government to withdraw this rushed legislation so that councils can provide the infrastructure that our communities so richly deserve.

“The NSW Government must provide assurances that under any changes to the legislation, adequate funding will be available to councils to provide the vital public infrastructure before families and businesses move into the new developments.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

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ligible NSW businesses, sole traders and not-for-profit organisations can apply for up to $15,000 from the first of the NSW Government’s economic support packages: The 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grant.

Applications for the second tranche of assistance, which includes the Micro Business Support Grants and the JobSaver program, will open from Monday, July 26.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said over $4 billion had been directed by the NSW Government to where it is needed most to help families and businesses during this difficult time.

“From the outset of the pandemic we’ve always said we would do whatever was necessary to protect people and jobs and this suite of measures will do exactly that,” Mr Perrottet said.

“These programs will provide timely and targeted support for businesses to help them with much needed cash flow, maintain employees and provide relief for business expenses, for which no other government support is available.

“We’re committed to keeping businesses in business, and people in jobs which is why we’re providing tax-free grants of between $7,500 and $15,000 to help alleviate some of the economic pressures being faced during the current COVID-19 lockdown.”

The 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grant will be available to NSW businesses that have a turnover of more than $75,000 and up to $50 million, and have a total annual wages bill of below $10 million.

Businesses can expect to start receiving funds from the Business Support Grant from the end of July.

Eligible businesses for the 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grant will receive: • $15,000 for a decline in turnover of 70 per cent, or more; • $10,500 for a decline in turnover of 50 per cent, or more; • $7,500 for a decline in turnover of 30 per cent, or more.

Minister for Digital and Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the digital application process would be available for business owners through Service NSW. “The digital architecture is already in place to deliver these grants into the bank accounts of the businesses in need as quickly and as seamlessly as possible,” Mr Dominello said.

“Applying businesses will use the same quick and easy online application tool as previous grants, which saw 97 per cent of users give the process a thumbs up.”

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said small businesses were the backbone of the State’s economy, representing more than 98 per cent of businesses in NSW. “It’s imperative that every effort is made to safeguard our businesses, no matter the size; we want to keep businesses thriving, whilst keeping our community safe”, Mr Tudehope said.

“From Monday, businesses, sole traders or notfor-profit organisations across NSW impacted by the public health restrictions may be eligible for grants of up to $15,000.”

From July 26, the Micro Business Support Grant will be available for eligible businesses with a

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turnover of between $30,000 and $75,000 that experience a decline in turnover of 30 per cent or more. Eligible businesses will receive $1,500, taxfree, per fortnight of restrictions.

In addition, the joint NSW Government and Commonwealth JobSaver program will help small and medium businesses retain staff.

Eligible businesses with a turnover from $75,000 and up to $50 million who maintain their staff headcount will receive tax-free fortnightly payments of 40 per cent of their weekly payroll, with a minimum payment of $1,500 per week, and a maximum payment of $10,000 per week. Eligible non-employing businesses will receive $1,000 per week. These payments will also be made fortnightly.

For more information on the 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grants visit: www.nsw.gov.au.

Support for individuals impacted by the current COVID-19 restrictions and stay-at-home orders is available through Services Australia. For more information visit: www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/ covid19.

Western News 23 July June 2021 Issue 140

Business Support Grant open

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Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

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Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 Sports Journalist: Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ow terribly sad it was to hear about the poor family whose dog mauled and killed their five week old baby recently. A tragedy of epic proportions; a tiny life lost and a family who has to spend the rest of their days asking how such a dreadful thing could have happened.

Social media has been dominated this week by the obligatory debate on banning dog breeds.

There’s nothing to suggest the above-mentioned family weren’t good pet owners.

Nor is every Staffordshire Terrier a killer.

So what’s the answer? Do we ban the breed or blame all owners?

We have a tendency to ban things, even when there’s a small amount who do wrong but the majority do right.

The majority of Staffies make loving, loyal and safe pets. Sure, some dogs of various breeds can be vicious and dangerous. Ban those ones. Once they draw flesh and blood in an unprovoked attack they need to be removed for the safety of kids and other dogs and cats.

The majority of staffy and other similar breed owners are loving pet owners who do the right thing. But I’m just gonna go right ahead and say it - some are jerks.

We’ve all met the type - the chin and chest comes out as they say “I own a pit bull” and we are all supposed to be impressed that a grown man’s pet ownership somehow translates to how tough he must be. Yeah yeah, you’re just too cool for school. I’m humbled to be in your presence.

Dogs are much like children in the way that their personalities will mimic that of their “parents” and what they are taught. Responsible pet owners will usually have well-behaved pets. Bad-tempered pet owners are likely to have snappy pets.

And chest-sticking-out wannabes are likely to have - you guessed it - dangerous and violent pets.

I think the law should come down harder on irresponsible pet owners, not the products of their misguided pet rearing. Perhaps we need a system where complaints are investigated by an animal welfare officer - not unlike a child welfare officer - who has the power to walk in and decide if the owner is responsible enough to contain the problem. By the same token this officer should have the power to say, “You’re a tosser and your dog deserves better.”

We need to take a closer look at the source creating the problem - because if we don’t, banning a breed without tackling the problem will ultimately lead to irresponsible pet owners preying on other breeds.

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Western News 23 July June 2021 Issue 140

Second ‘jab’ for Mayor

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lacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, has rolled up his sleeve and received his second AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccination.

Mayor Bleasdale received his first ‘jab’ back in April and was determined to complete the full course of vaccination.

“Vaccination is our greatest weapon in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“If the community wants to avoid further damaging lockdowns and restrictions we must all get the ‘jab’.

“Medical experts tell us that we need around 80 percent of the population vaccinated before we can safeguard our communities from the virus.

“The health and wellbeing of our City’s residents and businesses is front and centre in all Council’s services and that’s why I’m joining the call for everyone who can, to get vaccinated.

“Many of our businesses are facing ruin due to the on-again-off-again COVID shutdowns and restrictions and there’s no end of hardship and hurt being caused by the loss of social gatherings, school closures, family get togethers, sporting competitions and entertainment.

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Dr Kumar of St Martins Village Medical Centre in Blacktown administers Mayor Bleasdale’s second AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccination.

“While vaccination is our greatest weapon in this fight we must all continue to play our part by adhering to the Public Health orders, wearing masks, maintain social distancing, washing our hands and getting tested when we show any flu-like symptoms.

“Together we can beat this pandemic and get back to enjoying our normal lives again.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Mayor Bleasdale had both his vaccinations at the St Martins Village Medical Centre, courtesy of Dr. Kumar.

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Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

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“You won’t be fine just because you don’t die” Westmead Hospital intensive care doctor’s COVID-19 warning

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r George Zhou has seen hundreds of people die overseas from COVID-19.

“Plenty of them were healthy, young people in their teens or 20s. It was terrible. There’s no two ways about it,” he said.

“Watching a pregnant 20-yearold die from COVID is horrible in a way that I don’t think can be put into words.”

Dr Zhou, an intensive care specialist at Westmead Hospital, was part of a World Health Organisation team sent to Lebanon last year to assist with the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Beirut explosion in August 2020 destroyed three hospitals and damaged two others, which were already close to capacity due to the pandemic.

In the months that followed, Lebanon’s known COVID-19 cases spiked to thousands every day.

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The standout memory is being overwhelmed, Dr Zhou said.

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“All the normal hospital wards were converted to COVID wards with an emergency ICU in each hospital. There were patients in the corridors, patients in reception, patients in the carpark – we were giving oxygen to people in their cars.

“Many people had to be turned away from hospital.”

Dr Zhou estimates up to threequarters of the hundreds of patients he saw died in intensive care.

The experience made him more grateful for Australia’s public health system, but also reinforced to him the importance of public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Dr George Zhou at Westmead Hospital (left) and training intensive care staff in Lebanon.

“We’re in a very different position in Australia with our equipment and medical resources. But I think people still underestimate how bad an actual pandemic is in a city,” Dr Zhou said.

“Our hospitals could easily be overwhelmed if cases hit thousands.

But there’s a lot of complacency in Australia because we’ve done well for so long, people haven’t seen it.”

Dr Zhou said even those who survive intensive care can be left with lifelong issues.

dealing with COVID-19.

“Get vaccinated as soon as you can and stay at home so we can get on top of this,” Dr Zhou said.

“COVID-19 is a deadly disease and I think we underestimate it. It can get

bad very quickly.”

It remains vital that anyone who has any symptoms, or is a close or casual contact of a person with COVID-19, isolates and is tested immediately.

Check the NSW Government website regularly, and follow the relevant health advice if you have attended a venue of concern or travelled on a public transport route at the same time as a confirmed case of COVID-19. This list is being updated regularly as case investigations proceed.

There are more than 35 testing clinics in western Sydney and over 380 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW, many of which are open seven days a week.

To book your COVID-19 vaccination, go to www.nsw.gov.au or visit the Australian Government’s Vaccine Eligibility Checker online.

”

Some of the people we discharged in Lebanon had such serious lung damage there’s no way they could ever return to work. They can’t go to the park and kick a ball around with their kids, things like that we take for granted.

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“You won’t be fine just because you don’t die.”

His message for everyone is that prevention is the best approach to

Futuristic, lifesaving heart research given $5 million boost

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atients with end-stage heart disease and no remaining treatment options could be given a lifeline with cutting-edge stem cell research taking place at the Westmead Health Precinct.

Interventional cardiologist Associate Professor James Chong and his team were awarded a $5 million Medical Research Future Fund grant by the Australian Government this past week.

The futuristic research involves growing new cardiomyocytes – heart muscle cells that are predominantly responsible for the pump function of the heart.

The latest grant is further federal investment in the exciting possibility of heart regeneration; repairing the damage caused by heart disease and heart attack.

Associate Professor Chong is an interventional cardiologist at Westmead

Westmead Hospital interventional cardiologist Associate Professor James Chong.

Picture: Westmead Institute for Medical Research

Hospital and the co-director of the Centre for Heart Research at the Westmead Institute for Medical Research.

The project is one of 106 to share in $180 million funding announced this past week by the Federal Government, for ground-breaking medical research projects around Australia to improve the lives of Australians and their loved ones. $18.7 million will be provided through the Stem Cell Mission for 17 projects that will address illnesses including COVID-19, epilepsy and childhood cancer.

Westmead Health Precinct is the state’s leading centre of medical research and one of the largest health, education, research and training precincts in Australia.

It features four major hospitals, four world-leading medical research institutes, two university campuses and the largest research intensive pathology service in NSW.

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or the Halliwell family, getting the COVID-19 vaccination was just another day on the job.

Dr Richard Halliwell and his twin daughters, Rebecca and Emma, are all frontline workers at Westmead Hospital – all involved in treating some of western Sydney’s most-ill patients.

To ensure the safety of themselves and the community, all 3 of them have rolled up their sleeves to receive their COVID-19 vaccination.

Lining up at Westmead Hospital’s vaccination clinic, Rebecca said there was never a doubt in her mind whether getting the vaccine was the right thing to do.

“As a health care professional, it is mandatory for us to be vaccinated against an array of diseases, and although you do not have to receive the COVID-19 vaccination if you are a health Dr Richard Halliwell and his twin daughters Rebecca and Emma care worker, for me, it is no different,” Rebecca only health care professionals, but the wider western said.

“I work as a clinical nurse educator in coronary Sydney community.

“A lot of people out there might be hesitant to get care and have often cared for patients who are waiting to get their results for their COVID-19 test. the vaccination because of the risks associated with “I have a responsibility to ensure I am not it, but what they fail to remember, is there is risk in transmitting the virus to other staff, patients, or my everything we do in our lives,” Dr Halliwell said.

“Jumping on an international flight presents loved ones at home.”

Like Rebecca, her father Richard has been people with risks of blood clots. It’s why you are working throughout the pandemic and is now fully always encouraged to get up and go to the bathroom and to keep moving your feet. vaccinated against COVID-19.

“People need to remember the bigger picture.

He stressed the importance of vaccination to not

Medications may have side effects, jumping on a plane may have side effects – but this doesn’t stop people from doing these things.”

NSW has administered more than 2.1 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine since February 22, 2021.

The current Sydney outbreak is reason why these numbers need to continue to rise to keep the community safe.

“The vaccine protects you. It protects the community,” said Dr Halliwell.

“It dramatically reduces the chances of transmission, hospitalisation and death.

“Suppose we get 70 to 80 per cent of the population vaccinated. In that case, we may not have to endure lockdowns and restrictions like we are used to today, as the virus will not be able to get a foothold in the community.”

“As a nation, we have two choices. Stay where we are and have recurrent lockdowns and restrictions. Or get vaccinated once eligible and start moving in the direction of normality.”

The Westmead Hospital COVID-19 vaccination clinic is one of two clinics operated by Western Sydney Local Health District with the other at Blacktown Hospital. Bookings are required for both clinics.

To book your vaccination, go to nsw.gov. au or visit the Australian Government’s Vaccine Eligibility Checker online.

Update on COVID-19 policing compliance activities

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he NSW Police Force continues to escalate its compliance activities throughout greater Sydney and across the state in response to announcements of further restrictions under the Public Health Order.

General duties police will be out in force undertaking high visibility patrols to ensure the community is educated and complies with the new requirements of the Public Health Order, which have been introduced across Greater Sydney including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shellharbour, to further limit the spread of the COVID-19 Delta strain.

The new restrictions include: Residents of Fairfield, CanterburyBankstown and Liverpool LGAs cannot leave their LGA for work, except for authorised workers such as emergency services and healthcare workers (including aged and disability workers); Anyone who leaves the home must have a mask with them at all times; and No carpooling unless among members of the same household.

Specialist officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Police Transport Command and the Police Mounted Unit will patrol roadways and transport hubs, in

support of local policing efforts to maximise compliance.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said that the policing response has been commensurate to the severity of the risk of the virus spreading.

“I share the community’s disgust in the selfish behaviour of a small minority of people, who wilfully continue to flout the public health orders. In the past 24 hours, more than 20 people have been charged and will be before the courts for criminal breaches,” Mr Elliott said.

“We are nearly 19 months into the pandemic, police will be undertaking compliance activities with a strong focus on identifying non-compliance with the orders.

“I want to acknowledge the vast majority of the community, particularly residents of South West Sydney who continue to comply with the health orders. Compliance is the

best possible way we can further limit the spread of the COVID-19 Delta strain.

“We have seen the devastating effects that some countries have had to deal with since the start of this pandemic. I know these restrictions are tough and certainly unprecedented in Australia, but we need to remember that this is a global pandemic,” he said.

Metropolitan Field Operations Deputy Commissioner Malcolm Lanyon said police are first and foremost appealing to the community to comply with the latest public health order.

“Clearly, no one wants to be living with these restrictions, but the best chance we have of getting out of this situation is if we all pull together to do our bit to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community,” Deputy Commissioner Lanyon said.

“Police do not want to have to

have interactions with people who won’t comply but make no mistake, if people do not abide by the public health order, we will not shy away from enforcing the orders.

“Around greater Sydney, police will be heavily focussed on ensuring compliance with mask wearing rules, stay at home provisions, carpooling rules, and limits to household-only interactions.

“In just one 24 hour period police attended just over 1325 COVIDrelated jobs, about 860 of those were reports from members of the community to Crime Stoppers. This highlights that police are responding to the widespread concerns being raised by the community about breaches of the health orders,” he said.

Police will also continue to conduct business inspections and focus on compliance with QR code requirements.

Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

Making COVID-19 vaccinations a family affair

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Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

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It’s as simple as: Call, Connect and Conquer COVID By the team at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD)

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othing is more important than family, and during these uncertain times, not being able to visit a loved one can be hard.

When usually being together is the best way we show our support, right now staying apart is how we can keep each other safe.

As COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the community, it is more important than ever to stay at home, and help spread the word to family and friends on how to keep safe.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has launched the Call Connect and Conquer COVID campaign in order to reach culturally diverse communities of western Sydney.

Our health heroes are getting on the phones each day to help spread the word to their loved ones.

So what can you do to get involved?

We want you to stop and take 10 minutes in your day to call your loved ones.

Many people in our community have language barriers or might not know the current health advice.

Let them know that staying at home means: • Not to visit friends or family for now • No visitors or gatherings at their home • No travelling outside of their local area for exercise • They can only leave their home for certain reasons - To get essential supplies (e.g. food, pet food, medical care), to exercise, to get tested for COVID-19, to get medical care, to get a COVID vaccination or for essential work.

If they are struggling, let them know there are free mental health support services available including: • NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511 • Lifeline: 13 11 14 • Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service: 1800 512 348 Build it in to your routine.

• Pick a time each day that you set aside to call someone you love.

• Make a list of all the people you want to call and pick a different person each day.

• 10 minutes can be found when: - When you first wake up

- When you’re having a cup of coffee - When waiting for the washing to finish - If you’re waiting for the kettle to boil Blacktown Hospital Women’s & Newborn Care midwifery unit manager Michelle Gallagher said that she contacts her elderly parents daily, to ensure they are getting the right health information, and are also staying home and safe.

Blacktown Hospital Women’s & Newborn Care midwifery unit manager Michelle Gallagher

“My dad requires extra care because he has dementia and my mum at home with him all day – they are both elderly and both vulnerable,” she said.

“When I call them, I reinforce the latest NSW Health restrictions and updates and remind them not to go out, stay home and safe.

“They are not on social media and rely on the 11am update from the NSW Premier every day for their information.

“They look forward to my regular calls during the day or night and sometimes mum rings me for any updates.”

WSLHD Chief Executive Graeme Loy is encouraging all community members to pick up the phone, and have a conversation.

“We need you as public health ambassadors to help our community stay up-to-date. We can’t do it without your networks and relationships,” Mr Loy said.

“Call Connect and Conquer COVID reminds us to look out for each other and do the right thing. It’s the best and quickest way we can get back to our usual activities. Please help us pass on messages to keep our community safe.”

Western Sydney Local Health District is asking everyone to get on board and support the Call Connect and Conquer COVID campaign.

Labor calls for the return of JobKeeper NSW Labor is calling on the Federal Government to re-introduce JobKeeper in New South Wales so businesses and workers can survive the harder lockdown announced last weekend.

“For the first time ever since the pandemic began, NSW is shutting down its construction industry. The decision will cost the NSW economy at least $700 million per week. The jobs of at least 250,000 people are affected directly,” said Opposition Leader Chris Minns. “NSW Labor has always offered bi-partisan support for the actions necessary to save people’s lives. But as the health crisis deepens, the economic support available must change to save people’s livelihoods.

“JobKeeper rescued the NSW economy last year. It protected people’s jobs, boosted businesses’ balance sheets, and sped up the economic recovery.

“Re-instating JobKeeper would help alleviate the pressure on businesses, and reassure workers complying with stay-at-home orders that their jobs

are secure, and will be there for them on the other side.”

Mr Minns said it would also remove the pressures for workers to use up their entitlements such as annual leave or long service leave while they cannot go to work.

“This is a more restrictive lock down and yet the economic package is far less generous. How are people supposed to survive?” he said.

“The NSW Government needs to use its power in National Cabinet to fight for its return.

“We must follow the health advice and take all necessary actions to stop the spread of this virus.

But we must also cushion the financial blow, rather than leaving people and businesses to fend for themselves.

“It’s the fair thing to do, and it’s the right thing to do. The sooner adequate support flows to the people of New South Wales, the better. Let’s work together and keep supporting each other. We will get through this,” Mr Minns concluded.

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WESTERN HISTORY

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

homas David Beyer (Jnr) was an Anglican clergyman and Air Force Chaplain who was born in March 1906 at Lakes Entrance in Victoria. The son of Thomas David Beyer (Snr) and his wife Victoria Ruth (Dunk). His father was a wellknown Gippsland personality who died suddenly in Melbourne in 1940 where he had lived for five years.

Before that he was a resident of Lakes Entrance and at one time was a prominent playing member of Essendon Town football team. Later he played with distinction in the Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance teams. He was actively associated with many civic projects for the progress of the Gippsland Lakes as a tourist resort and earned the esteem and affection of the residents of Lakes Entrance. He was also a prominent member of the Essendon A.N.A lodge and Anglers’ Society and also served for many years as a Vestryman of St Nicholas’s Church of England at Lakes Entrance and was also a member of the Synod of the diocese of Gippsland. Thomas (Jnr) attended Melbourne and Bairnsdale high schools and after finishing school he worked as a motorcar salesman in Melbourne in 1931. The next year he entered Ridley College (Australian College of Theology) and was made Deacon in December of that year. He was ordained Priest a year later for the Diocese of Gippsland and served his Curacy at Paynesville and was the “Priestin-Charge” at Drouin in 1934. That same year in April at the Church of St John the Baptist at Bairnsdale he married Hazel Vera Johnston the daughter of Samuel Renwick Johnston and Vera Jeanette Coverdale. The ceremony was published in the Gippsland Times saying, “A wedding that created a great deal of interest was that of the Reverend Thomas David Beyer, eldest son of Mr T D Beyer, “Normanhurst” Gippsland Lakes and the late Mrs Beyer to Hazel Vera only daughter of Mrs S R Johnston, of “Carlowrie” Bairnsdale and the late Mr Johnston of Lindenow and celebrated by the Bishop of Gippsland (Dr G H Cranswick) at St John’s Church of England, Bairnsdale. The bride was given away by her brother Mr E Johnston of Lindenow and wore a beautiful gown of silver brocade from a low hipline that terminated at the unusual moulded bodice. The skirt fell in graceful folds and formed a tiny train. Very quaint sleeves of fine silver needle run lace and an exquisite veil of tulle edged with fine lace and beautifully embroidered and all hand-made was also worn. This was loaned by the bride’s cousin Mrs D Travers-Fardon, of Malvern and was last worn by Mrs Don Bradman. The bride carried a beautiful shower sheaf of white roses, cactus dahlias and sweet peas with streamers. The bridesmaids were Miss Rosalyn Langdon and Miss Jean Wyndham who were friends of the bride. They both wore frocks in tea rose pink georgette with moulded bodices and a skirt of small frills forming a short train, sleeves of dainty frills and hats of silver ribbon with tulle brims. The gloves were of frilled georgette with pink satin shoes on their feet. They both carried muffs of blue delphiniums and pink carnations with frills of pink tulle. The bride’s mother wore a Wedgewood blue wool de-Chene frock with grey fur trim and a hat to match and she carried a bouquet of red cactus dahlias and fern. Mrs Beyer the stepmother of the bridegroom was becomingly attired in a gown of brown crepe de Chene frock with orange trimmings and wore a hat to match with brown shoes and gloves.

The bride and groom’s future home was at the Vicarage, Drouin.” In 1935 Thomas became Rector of Morwell where he contributed columns to the local newspaper under the pseudonym “Inquisitas”.

He played cricket and Australian Rules football and participated in amateur theatricals. During WW2 in November 1940, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force as Chaplain 3rd class and was posted to Laverton, then in December 1941 to Geraldton in Western Australia. He embarked for England in January 1943, travelling on escort duty via North America and served for the remainder of the war at the No.11 Personnel Dispatch and Reception Centre that was located at Bournemouth and later moved to Brighton. This unit received RAAF personnel on arrival in England for further training or operational duties. As sole Unit Chaplain Thomas wrote hundreds of letters home to families of the airmen, conducted funerals, and produced a fortnightly magazine with a circulation of three hundred. In his office (christened `Bludgers Bower’ with the motto `Abandon rank all who enter’) men could talk over problems, read or write, receive comfort parcels from home or have a quiet yarn. His weekly services in local parish churches were always popular. As a keen sportsman he was responsible for arranging weekly matches against local teams. Having been a handy cricketer he regularly played in or led RAAF teams against other service’s or county teams. After VE Day Thomas worked with former prisoners of war. He arrived home to Australia in June 1946 and was posted to Point Cook in Victoria. In 1947-48 he served in Japan with the RAAF component of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force. In 1950 he was Chaplain of Forces 3 when he spent a month in Korea during that war. In the King’s Birthday Honours in 1950 he was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Official reports on his service both in England and Japan testified to his effectiveness as a Chaplain saying - “Dave Beyer’s approach coupled a robust practical Christianity with a rich sense of humour”. Promoted to Principal Air Chaplain in January 1963 he was based at Penrith. This role required trips to yet another operational area, this time Vietnam. He transferred to the RAAF Reserve in March 1965 but continued to serve part time in Melbourne as PAC until he was placed on the Retired List in December 1967. Having been prominent in the service sporting administration Thomas became Executive Officer of the South Pacific Games Trust (1969) in Port Moresby where he stayed for three and a half years. Retiring to Bayside Melbourne he indulged his passion for catching fish, angling, boating, catching more fish and supporting the Melbourne Football Club. Survived by his daughter he died in November 1982 at Frankston and after a military funeral he was cremated at Springvale, Victoria. Hazel died in Victoria in 1979. PS: I haven’t been able to find a photo of Thomas, but this lovely photo is of Hazel in her cousin’s wedding gown courtesy of family information on Ancestry.

Sources: Australian Dictionary of Biography, Australian War Memorial, Supplement to the London Gazette 8/6/1950, Government Gazette WA 30/1/1942, The Cable Clerical Index - Project Canterbury – Anglican History.org, Gippsland Times Victoria, Age (Melbourne, Vic).

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Western News 23 July June 2021 Issue 140

A Decorated Chaplain

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Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

12

local news

Western News

It’s a good time to home-school your pet

W

ith the entire family currently in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, there is no better time than to introduce home-schooling for your pet.

Like humans, pets love games and puzzles.

Dogs and cats can benefit from interactive puzzles; they are a great way to challenge and strengthen your pet’s mental and physical capabilities. We especially recommend interactive puzzle toys to fight boredom, reduce destructive behaviours and help keep your pet busy should you have to leave them for any period of time.

The beauty of puzzles and interactive games is that they can be introduced to any dog no matter their age, physical activity level or health situation!

For puppies, it is important to start with games that are simple, short, and that require lots of interaction with the owner as well as positive feedback and praise. For senior pets, you can reduce the strain of games by letting them work with their nose as opposed to having to move around their body as much.

Benefits of Interactive Toys Relieves Boredom – Pet puzzle toys can successfully cure boredom that can lead to behaviour issues. When pets become bored or lonely, they invent their own entertainment. This translates to scratching, chewing and tearing up inappropriate things, like sofas, cushions, shoes, furniture, and garbage bins. You may think your pet is getting even with you for leaving him alone or being too busy to play with them, but that’s not the reason.

hours. Kongs are durable and multi-purpose; they bounce and roll and can be used for fetch.

The shape makes them bounce unpredictably, which keeps pets interested. A recycled soft drink bottle can also be utilised in a similar manner.

Hide & Seek squeak toys - If your dog loves squeaky plush toys, hide them in a box or cardboard tube and watch your dog go crazy trying to pull them out. It is a great game that does not use food as a reward, so it’s great for those chubby pups who need activity but not calories. If your dog gets carried away, just throw out the box and start again.

Twister Puzzle Toy - This is a challenging treat dispenser game. Your dog can push the interlocking segments around to find the treat, but to make it harder, you can lock some of the panels in place.

Great for intelligent working breed dogs.

Ball Launcher Toy - A favourite for dogs with energy to burn is the automatic ball launcher. This battery-operated toy will automatically launch the ball and relaunch once your pet brings it back and drops it into the machine.

Snuffle Puzzle Mat - A snuffle mat is the perfect puzzle toy to utilize your pet’s sniffing instincts.

Made of soft material you simply hide treats under flaps and let your pet forage for the treats. Look for a mat that is machine washable for an easy clean up.

Just 15-30 minutes a day with a puzzle toys and your pet can be top of the class by the end of COVID lockdown. For more information on homeschooling lessons for your pet contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

Puzzles, toys and environmental enrichment can be the boredom-buster your pet needs.

Slow Down Feeding – You can actually feed your dog their entire meal using certain food puzzles.

They are an excellent choice for slowing down pets who eat too quickly and preventing unpleasant side effects like vomiting and indigestion.

Exercise – Food puzzles can provide exercise for your dog’s mind and body. For the most part, dogs need jobs. Dogs need activities that challenge them mentally and exercise to challenge them physically.

Without mental and physical stimulation, pets will often become destructive, and all too often, carry excess weight.

There are many forms of interactive toys and puzzles available. Different sized pets, personalities and breeds may dictate the most successful puzzle or game choice.

Kong Toys These are great for teething puppies, and it will keep a food-motivated dog occupied for

Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

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solution 9/7/21

Western News

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What’s the difference between non-bank lenders and banks? The Broker.

hen it comes to home finance, selecting the right loan product for a client’s unique situation requires access to a range of options to compare against their needs.

Both bank and non-bank lenders have advantages depending on the borrower.

It’s worth mentioning that both banks and nonbank lenders have to abide by the same laws, rules and regulations in Australia. This includes the NCCP act which governs all credit transactions and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission which requires lenders to be transparent with fees, rates and make this information readily available when requested.

While the right loan and lender is dependent on a borrower’s needs, here are some insights on the general pros and cons of bank and non-bank lenders.

Banks Some borrowers feel safer with banks particularly the Big 4. They’re often more established institutions and hold the majority of the Australian mortgage market. Banks have an extra level of regulation under the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority who ensure that, under all reasonable circumstances, financial promises made by institutions are met.

Banks usually have stricter criteria to meet and some banks pass on higher overhead costs through their fees Non-bank lenders These institutions often deliver more competitive rates for borrowers. They can often provide options for borrowers who don’t meet bank lending criteria.

They often have lower setup and ongoing costs.

They can often provide options for borrowers

who don’t meet bank lending criteria because they’re self employed, have a lower credit rating or have been declined a loan in the past. Non-banks have been known to provide a more personalised service and be more flexible to a borrower’s needs and requirements.

Being smaller institutions, non-bank lenders can be more vulnerable to economic conditions and may have fewer products available.

While the right loan and lender is dependent on a borrower’s needs and the party assisting with finance and as at 1st January 2021 the best interests duty (BID) obligations came into effect became law.

Mortgage brokers must meet the best interests duty (BID) obligations to align the interests of mortgage brokers more closely with the interests of their customers. BID applies to products that are regulated under the National Consumer Credit Protection (NCCP) which brokers work in accordance with.

The BID law sets out a list of guiding principles that mortgage brokers must follow when providing credit assistance. The best interests duty (BID) obligations are designed to align the interests of mortgage brokers more closely with their customer’s individual circumstances, objectives and situations.

A customer who uses a mortgage broker will receive and value the assistance provided when compared of going direct to a lender. A lender only has their own suite of products to recommend.

A mortgage broker has access to hundreds of different product options from dozens of lenders and is legally obliged to act in their customers’ best interests to achieve a greater customer outcome.

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Mortgage brokers put much work behind-thescenes to support their customers every day and with BID the only difference is now the customer will see what you actually do, as brokers have acted in providing the best service for their customers before the law.

It’s seems easy for a customer to select product features, but do they really understand the pros and cons of the features they’ve chosen? Brokers obtain information from the customer, review and assess their needs, evaluate and select loan products, educate the customer using product fact sheets, so finally you the customer can make an informed decision and be confident that broker has acted in your best interests.

At the end of the day, the right loan and lender is dependant on each individual client’s personal needs. Mortgage brokers - who have access to a variety of different lenders - can help borrowers of all kinds make the right decision.

Applying for a loan.

It is important to remember that mortgage brokers have the knowledge, experience and relationships with the many lenders and are necessary to assist people in finding a home loan that meets your needs, especially as a result of changing circumstances.

Wealthwiz can actively assist you in navigating your current situation. So, if you have been thinking about reassessing your finances, simplicity, flexibility and clarity are the essential ingredients for success, particularly if you are self-employed or contractor and looking to apply for a home loan.

Got a question? Call Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the home loan market. Wealthwiz is here to help.

13 Western News 23 July June 2021 Issue 140

Alex Soncini

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Western News 23 July 2021 Issue 140

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Western News

SPORT

Mapanao wins State Berth

By Noel Rowsell

G

olf NSW has recognised the sport’s brightest up-andcoming talent, with 20 juniors receiving representative selection honours, including Quakers Hill youngster Brielle Mapanao, a former junior member at Stonecutters Ridge GC before moving to The Australian GC. Brielle is an exciting young talent who has already achieved some remarkable results in golf, including winning the Match Play Championships with ‘Team NSW’ at the 2018 School Sport Australia tournament.

She was also a member of the victorious team from The Australian GC, which won both the 2020 and 2021 Ladies Division 1 Major Pennant Titles.

Brielle has achieved par rounds at both The Australian and Federal Golf Clubs and lists her favourite golfers as Minjee Lee, Ariya Jutanugarn and Jason Day, whilst her most inspirational athlete is Rafael Nadal.

“His (Rafael) attitude (both on and off the court) is so inspiring, as well as his fighting spirit. He never gives up and comes back stronger every time,” said Brielle.

The announcement of the NSW and ACT Boys and Girls teams was to occur after the State Junior Championships at Byron Bay and Ocean Shores in July.

However, with the current COVID outbreak causing the cancellation of the tournament, this was no longer possible.

The NSW Junior representatives for 2021 are: GIRLS: Brielle Mapanao – The Australian, Sophie Yip – Concord, Ella Scaysbrook – The Australian/ Newcastle/ Port Macquarie, Michelle Di Natale

Brielle Mapanao has won selection to the State team for 2021. Photos supplied by Golf NSW

– NSW GC, Rachel Lee – Avondale, Charlotte Perkins -The Australian BOYS: Jeffrey Guan – The Australian, Jye Halls – NSW GC/ Mollymook, Ali Rachid – NSW GC, Jake Riley – Pymble/Toronto, Joshua Todd – The Australian, Daley Loumanis – St. Michael’s Golf NSW’s High-Performance Manager Khan Pullen said all of the individuals selected had shown

their readiness to compete at a higher level despite the difficulties COVID had presented over the past year.

“Being selected to represent your state is an important milestone in the career of any athlete,” said Mr Pullen.

“The players selected have recorded some great results, especially with the difficulties of closed borders and travel restrictions due to the pandemic.”

“For some, this is the beginning of their journey into elite golf. For others, it’s recognition of their extraordinary recent performances.”

Brielle’s impressive resume to date includes: 2021 Australian Golf CLub Medal: Tied 1st; Metro Major Pennant Div I champions 2020 Metro Major Pennant Div I champions; Faldo Series Australia: Overall Champion 2019 Harvey Norman ACT Week of Golf – 14 ys and under Girls Champion; NSW Team representative JNJG State of Origin – Winners 2018 Harvey Norman Week of Golf – Girls Champion; Division II Women’s Metro Major Pennant Champions – undefeated; Faldo Sereis Fasia Grand Final – 12th; Regional Academy Games – Girls Champion; JNJG State Development Squad; Western Sydney Academy of Sport – Golf Athlete of the Year; The Concord Salver – Winner; NSW Combined High Schools team; School Sport Australia – NSW Team Champions; Scratch Winner – The Australian Golf Club Championships 2017 NSW State Age Champion – Girls 13 years

Pennant competitions moved back due to Covid

By Noel Rowsell

T

he full Committee of the Super Senior (over 65’s) Pennant competition met on Friday 16th July via Zoom to discuss the potential effect of the NSW Government’s lock-down extension on the start of this year’s competition.

It was decided at that meeting to delay the Pennant commencement by three weeks, to now start on Monday August 16.

All Clubs which were scheduled to host games in the first three rounds of the original draw will be contacted in an endeavour to establish suitable alternative hosting dates in Rounds 5,6 & 7, which will be in w/c September 13, 20 & 27 respectively, with the Finals series to commence in the first week of October.

Given the ever-evolving nature of the COVID-19 virus, the committee may be forced to review the start date again, as the competition can only commence if all of the three criteria below, are met.

The lock-down is not extended beyond July 30.

Restrictions on travel between LGA’s and beyond the 10km limit are lifted.

The young tyros of St Michaels and NSW GC’s launch off the tee in the 2020 semi-final at Glenmore Heritage Valley GC. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Golf can return to be played in fours.

The committee advised it will continue to monitor the advice of the NSW Govt, NSW Health and Golf NSW and asks that all Clubs remain patient.

The Committee is committed to do everything possible to run the Pennant safely in 2021, as occurred last year when the competition was disrupted

for six weeks during a similar outbreak.

In regards to the Eric Apperly Shield Pennant (21 years and under), Golf NSW has made the decision to delay the competition for a significant length of time. This is to ensure the least amount of demand on Clubs, given the current tee time pressures, and to give the competition the greatest chance of being played in 2021.

The revised dates will see the first round played on Sunday 31st October and run through to the 28th November, with the elimination contest on 4th December, Semi-finals on 5th December and Final on 12th December.

All clubs have been asked to confirm their participation by 30th July, which will allow a revised draw to be issued on 2nd August.

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 23 July 2021

Wanderers sign Rhys Williams W

estern Sydney Wanderers FC are pleased to announce the signing of defender Rhys Williams for the next two

seasons.

The highly-credentialed centre back will link up with the Wanderers from his current club Al Qadisiyah FC who play in the Saudi Pro League.

The former Middlesbrough product won an A-League Championship with Melbourne Victory in 2018, before departing for Saudi Arabia, where he has played 58 games over three seasons.

Williams was named club captain at Middlesbrough in 2012, where he remained until 2016 before returning to Australia to play for Perth Glory in the 2016/17 season and then at Melbourne Victory for the start of the 2017/18 season.

Often captaining his Al Qasisiyah team in his 27-months at the club, Williams brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the club.

Williams said he was excited to return to Australia and play for the Wanderers.

“It’s a big club, one that I’ve always been an admirer of and I am looking forward to a big challenge,” said Williams.

“I feel I have good leadership qualities. I learned a lot from when I was made captain at Middlesbrough at such a young age, being a leader is not about talking the loudest, it’s about leading by example,

putting your body on the line and doing your best every time you set foot on the pitch.

“I can’t wait to get settled in Western Sydney and look forward to joining the club in the coming weeks.”

Wanderers head coach Carl Robinson said Williams brings experience, leadership and a strong mentality to the Red & Black.

“Rhys is an experienced player, vocal on the pitch and has a good understanding of the way we want to play,” said Robinson.

“He has displayed a strong mentality and leadership qualities at every club he has played for, from a young age he has been a strong presence on and off the pitch and that is something we are looking for in our players.

“Rhys is someone that both understands the A-League and demands respect on the pitch.”

Williams will link up with the club when it is suitable for him to travel from Perth under current government restrictions.

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