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Friday, 25 May 2018

ISSUE 60

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DIG DEEP Dig deep for the Salvos this weekend as they collect much needed funds for Red Shield Appeal.

Photo: Sandra Skinner and David Auld collecting for the Red Shield Appeal in Western Sydney.

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eople in their tens of thousands flooded into Nurragingy Reserve over the weekend for Blacktown City Council’s annual Medieval

Fayre.

“Blacktown’s first Medieval Fayre was held in 2005 and attracted 5,000 people over two days,” Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said.

“This year, 70,000 turned out for this free, two day extravaganza.

“The Fayre showcased all things medieval, including combat displays, live musicians, colourful pavilions and a working blacksmiths hut.

“The International Jousting Competition was once again the highlight of the event, with riders from Australia, Poland and New Zealand all seeking to claim the prestigious title,” said Mayor Bali.

“It was thrilling to watch fully armoured knights on horseback thundering towards each other with

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Blacktown City’s Medieval Fayre a blast

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their lances aimed high, attempting to unseat each other.”

The Fayre featured the inaugural medieval banquet, which also proved to be a big hit.

“Everyone was dressed in medieval gear and ready to take part in the festivities as we filled our goblets and watched sword fights, dancers and fire performers put on a spectacular show,” Mayor Bali said.

The Medieval Fayre was just the start of the 2018 Blacktown City Festival.

The week-long celebration continues with a range of events and concludes with the Streets Alive and Parade Day on Saturday, 26 May. For more information including dates and times or to view the full program, visit the Blacktown City Festival website at www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/ festival or call Council on 9839 6000.

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

From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Keegan Thomson 0421 382 560 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Hilary Nathan Media 0402 841 434 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

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

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Vineyard Riverstone

Kellyville Ridge

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Quakers Hill

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St Marys

Dean Park Glendenning

Emerton

Plumpton

Stanhope Gardens Parklea

Kings Park Marayong

Woodcroft

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Mt Druitt Rooty Hill Minchinbury

Blacktown

Seven Hills

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Eastern Creek

Prospect

I know I’m not alone when I say that it really ticks me off when I hear about these individuals who appear before our courts and have the audacity to decide that they are going to refuse to stand up when the judge enters or speaks to them.

Please don’t stand for the behaviour of those who won’t stand for you.

Your behaviour is not under question, theirs is.

You are not up on charges, they are.

You are not required to prove you can be a good citizen, they are.

Not only does it show an utter disrespect towards authority, it shows a complete lack of interest in proving that they are good citizens with any desire whatsoever to uphold the law. What hope do we have if the rulers of law and punishment bend over and accept this sort of caper?

Judges, with all due respect, you need to get a lot tougher on those who think this attitude toward you is acceptable.

Rouse hill Marsden Park Schofields

his week I have a request for our judges:

I don’t think there would be any decent law-abiding citizen out there who wouldn’t applaud you for saying something along the lines of: “I was just about to sentence you to 15 years imprisonment, but your refusal to stand has triggered the new ‘you’re a jerk and our community deserves better’ law, which is a mandatory doubling of your sentence. Take 30, thanks for coming.”

You have earned the right to be respected. Please don’t be bullied or pressured into accepting anything less.

The community has your back on this, throw the book at them!

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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or Brian Elliot being a volunteer at the Blacktown City Plant Nursery is more than just having a green thumb, it’s about helping others in his community.

Mr Elliot from the Lethbridge Park is one of about 300 volunteers who work in Blacktown City Council venues, including the nursery, parks and libraries across the City.

Mayor of Blacktown City Stephen Bali said volunteers were an integral part of Blacktown City.

“Our Council volunteers are important because they help staff enhance the services provided to the community,” he said.

“They care for abandoned and sick animals, keep local parks clean, teach computer skills and provide reception support at the Blacktown Arts Centre, just to give a few examples.

“Put simply, Blacktown wouldn’t be the same without them.”

“There are hundreds of people who volunteer at local sporting clubs, community groups, hospitals and schools across our city”.

National Volunteer Week is from 21-27 May – an annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contributions of volunteers.

The theme this year is ‘Give a Little, Change a Lot’, a reference to

Volunteers at the Plant nursery in Blacktown.

Brian Elliot encourages others to become a volunteer at Blacktown City Council.

the millions of volunteers who make a significant impact in their communities by giving a little time.

Mr Elliot said he has been a volunteer for over 10 years and has no plans of stopping.

“I’m enjoying every moment of being a volunteer,” Mr Elliot said. “It’s

healthy, mentally and physically, it keeps your mind active.”

“It’s great to be able to give a lot back to the community, you pass on the information that you learn to others.”

Mayor Bali said Volunteer Week was an ideal time to thank volunteers for their contribution to the community.

“We are fortunate to have many volunteers across Council who are committed to making their local area the best it can be.

“On behalf of the City and Council, I thank them for their dedication, enthusiasm and contribution to our community.”

Michael Vassili

Barristers and Solicitors Family Law – Criminal Law – Civil Law All Litigation in All Courts throughout Australia

First interview is Free

1300 557 819 (24 HOURS - 7 DAYS)

admin@cityprosecutor.com.au www.cityprosecutor.com.au

Rouse Hill – Blacktown Seven Hills – Melbourne

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Volunteers reap big rewards

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Healthy flavours fill Mount Druitt at Vinnies cook-off

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ount Druitt Vinnies customers yesterday had their taste buds tingled at a cooking demonstration to encourage healthy eating.

Acting St Vincent de Paul Parramatta Central Council executive officer Kate Whitely said Vinnies staff and volunteers came up with the recipes.

“They’re affordable, healthy and easy to make and they taste good which is really important to our customers,” Kate said.

The event was part of a partnership between the Western Sydney and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health Districts, St Vincent de Paul and its Parramatta Central Council.

Vinnies stores are run by the St Vincent de Paul Society which was established to assist people in need. Vinnies shops provide the community with affordable and pre-loved items.

Starting today, Vinnies staff will hand out free healthy recipe cards to customers for the next six months at 21 Vinnies stores in Western Sydney. They will also be available on thepulse.org.au.

Trained health promotion volunteers will also be on hand at Vinnies stores in North Parramatta, Mount

Left to right: North Paramatta Vinnies volunteer Brett Guerin and Western Sydney Local Health District health promotion officer Louise McKeon.

Druitt, the Blacktown Mega Centre and Springwood to provide information about the free Get Healthy telephone coaching service, an initiative of NSW Health’s Make Healthy Normal campaign.

Western Sydney Local Health District population health director Christine Newman said the project helps people understand how easy it is to prepare healthy meals.

“Unhealthy food is often faster and easier to obtain,

especially with time pressures,” Christine said.

“Yesterday’s cooking demonstration and the recipes show the community that it’s actually very easy to whip up a quick, affordable and nutritious meal.

“Our partnership with Vinnies demonstrates how services can work together to improve health outcomes for those who may need an extra hand.

“We encourage everyone to pick up a recipe card and chat to the in-store health volunteers about the free services available that can help you adopt healthy eating habits.”

The healthy eating initiative is phase two of the Make Healthy Normal campaign in Western Sydney and the Nepean Blue Mountains. The project received a Zest award in 2017.

In 2017-18, the NSW Government committed $31 million to reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity in NSW, $19 million of which has been allocated to the delivery of the Premier’s priority to reduce childhood overweight and obesity.

If you would like some one-on-one help to get your family’s healthy eating on track, sign up for your free telephone coach, by visiting makehealthynormal.nsw. gov.au.

Girl Guides to restart in Prospect Guide Hall!

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rospect District Girl Guides are holding a free open day on Sunday, 3 June 10am-2pm to mark the restart of Guiding at its Prospect Guide Hall (Myrtle Street) and the close Guiding Month in May. According to District Manager, Nicole Prince, the event will provide a unique opportunity for locals to find out what Girl Guides has to offer their girls and young women, plus fun activities - like stories in a Bell Tent - games, treats and a free barbeque to enjoy.

“The hall hasn’t been active for a couple of years and we’re very pleased that it will be restarting.

New Girl Guides who join can also use the NSW government’s Active Kids Voucher to offset membership fees,” she said.

Prospect Girl Guides is also looking for two local women to become adult volunteer leaders, especially if they have a willingness to give back to the community and inspire girls and young women to be the best they can be.

“Volunteer Leaders believe in helping girls and young women achieve a sense of equality by participating in a range of purposive activities,” said Ms Prince, who herself is a Guide and volunteer.

“A few years ago I walked back into my old Guide Hall at Prospect to see my niece make her Promise

and I started to remember all the wonderful times I had as a Guide in the hall, at the many camps and on all those adventures, so I was inspired again,” she said.

“At that time there was a need for women to get involved so I took on the role of District Manager.

Having others join up and get the Guides meeting in the Guide Hall at Prospect again is very dear to me as this can ensure that another generation of girls can experience the kind of adventures I had as a Guide.”

Girl Guides get involved with many activities such as weekly meetings, jamborees, camping, service to the community, boating, exploring creative skills, wildlife conservation, sleep outs at the zoo, tree planting, rock climbing, campfires and more. Overall Guiding provides opportunities, it services the community, gets you outdoors and is adventurous!

Volunteer leaders do not need any previous experience and can work around the time they have available and they are provided with the necessary encouragement, support and training. Leaders come from all walks of life but what they have in common is a desire to help girls grow up to fulfil the demanding role of women in society today.

For more information please contact Nicole Prince 0402 220 587.

Sneak peek into Riverstone Park plans

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he exciting design for the long-awaited Riverstone skate and youth space is currently on public exhibition.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said: “Young people in this rapidly growing community have been waiting eagerly to see what this skate and youth space will look like for some time now.

“This design is a big step forward in providing the facilities this growing community needs.”

The active recreation facility has an exciting range of features for skaters, scooter riders and BMX riders.

“Our teams have worked with design experts, run a community design workshop with young people and sought community feedback to come up with a design suitable for different users,” Mayor Bali said.

With the support of the Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland, Council secured a $400,000 grant

from the Australian Government to deliver a new skate park in Riverstone.

Ms Rowland says she is thrilled to see the design of the skate and youth space.

“It is encouraging to see the active recreation facility designed as a multi-use space for the community. I am

sure the young people in Riverstone and surrounding areas will make good use of this space,” she said.

Initial public consultation included more than 150 online surveys being completed in November last year, and a drop-in design workshop was held in February this year.

Mayor Bali said: “This park is located in one of the fastest growing areas in our City, and we are proud to deliver a modern facility for young people and their families to enjoy.”

“The design for the skate and youth space is now on public exhibition and I encourage the community to take the opportunity to look at the design.”

To find out more, get in touch with Council’s recreation and Planning Team on 9839 6000, or email council@blacktown.nsw.gov.au The public exhibition closes on Sunday, 3 June.

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nce again, St Marys Rugby League Club are giving two young local students the opportunity of a lifetime; to participate in the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge, trekking the Kokoda Trail in late September.

Anastasia Ellis aged 17 and Annalise Della Libera aged 16 will join the ranks of more than 430 young men and women who have made the life-changing trek since the project commenced in 2005. Both “Anna’s” are students of St Marys Senior High School and were selected as the Club’s 2 trekkers from a high calibre pool of applicants.

Anastasia is currently completing Year 12 and believes this trek will provide her with an incredible opportunity that will shape her character and influence how she responds to challenges for the rest of her life. When asked how she felt on being selected, Anastasia said “It’s an incredible honour to be chosen. This experience will be invaluable”, adding that she hopes to use the experience to encourage and inspire other young people within her community to achieve their own personal ambitions.

Annalise is equally as excited, and whilst she is an experienced hiker, she knows that this trek will push her completely outside of her comfort zone, something she relishes! Annalise has been an active participant in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day celebrations for many years and considers herself to be a proud Australian. She said she can’t wait to stand at the end of this trek knowing that she “a 16-year-old female from Western Sydney, completed essentially the same course as those that

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Annalise Ellis (17) & Anastasia Della Libera (16) with St Marys Rugby League Club President, Warren Smith

died for us, securing our freedom”.

“Both Anastasia and Annalise are very impressive young women” said St Marys Rugby League Club Marketing Manager, Cathy Rowley. “I couldn’t think of 2 more worthwhile recipients of this opportunity and I have no doubt the experience will be life-changing for them both”.

Now in its 13th year, the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge is designed to give participants: • An appreciation of our military history • A respect for the sacrifice made by young Australians of a previous generation • An appreciation of a culture whose values are not based on materialism

• An appreciation of the qualities necessary for teamwork • An appreciation of the characteristics of leadership and • An understanding of the purpose and value of community service St Marys Leagues Club President, Warren Smith said “The Club is thrilled to be able to sponsor both Anastasia and Annalise in this once in a life-time opportunity. They are both very impressive young women and I believe the skills and understanding they’ll gain from the trek will prepare them to become future leaders of our community”.

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Local young people shine on Pilgrimage to Uluru

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n April this year, ten young people from western Sydney had the experience of a lifetime on Fusion’s annual Prilgrimage to Uluru.

Peer leaders in Fusion’s youth programmes from St Marys, Colyton, Bidwill and WIllmot headed off on Sunday 8 April, along with a team of six Fusion youth workers and volunteer drivers and cooks, on a twelve day journey to the centre of our nation.

Fusion’s annual Pilgrimage to Uluru, now in its 18th year, is an opportunity for young people to enrich their sense and appreciation of Australia’s national and indigenous history and culture and to experience and explore issues of meaning and community. Young people are challenged to reflect on their

boundaries and choices and it is often a life-changing experience for those who participate.

The Pilgrimage culminates in a weekend of celebration and activity at Yulara with bus groups from Fusion centres all around Australia gathering to participate in a community festival, concerts, an evening prayer vigil and a dawn service before departing on the journey home.

Pilgrimage Co-Ordinator for Fusion Western Sydney, Sophie Head shared, “the young people from our area took the learning side of the trip very seriously. It was lovely to see change and growth in those we work with each week. On the journey home, some shared about changes they’d like to make in their attitudes and in the way they treat others so that they can have

better relationships with friends and family members. They also reflected that they have learnt a lot more about the history of our country’s settlement and our Aboriginal people.

They shared that they want to help educate others back home on our history from the Aboriginal people’s perspective, to help others understand our past and the issues our Aboriginal communities face.”

This opportunity would not have been possible for many of the young people without the generous support of local businesses and organisations.

Thank you to St Marys Shopping Village and Bakers Delight for showing their support and commitment to local initiatives to strengthen our young people, families and communities. The participants

also held fundraising events including a car wash and helped at a Fusion Easter event and at Neighbourhood Day at Oxley Park for Penrith Council.

Fusion is a youth and community organisation which has a deep and ongoing commitment to developing resilience in individual lives and the community.

Each week the team at Fusion Western Sydney run programmes and activities to support vulnerable young people and families.

Fusion Western Sydney is based in St Marys with its Admin Hub and Fusion Café, a social enterprise, located in Station Street opposite St Marys Railway Station. For more information about Fusion Western Sydney go to www.fusionwesternsydney.org.au or phone 8805 5900.

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his Sunday 27 May 2018 at the Museum of Fire Penrith, as part of the Sydney Classic and Antique Truck Show there will be The Ultimate Battle of Man versus Machine 4 eager Strongman competitors will be taking on GRS Towing’s 21,700kg twin steer side puller monster and attempting to pull it down the 20mtr course with nothing but sheer strength and willpower.

The boys are in training for PTC Macarthur’s, 2018 NSW Strongest Man in 3 weeks at The Gregory Hills Hotel.

Jacob Rasmussen is the lightest, a former 105kg NSW Champion and Multiple National Level competitor he’ll be out to show you don’t have to be big to move big weights.

Andy Hargreaves- one of Australia’s top Powerlifters by day and Train Driver by night, he’s not too scared to get his cardio in the strongman way.

Blake Ashmore- one of the most promising up and coming athletes having qualified for the Arnold’s in his first 12mths, with a new born baby could he be Australia’s Strongest Dad? Troy Conley- a 5-year veteran of the sport with plenty of experience

and enthusiasm, after a health scare in December will he overcome his demons and the 22 tonne beast?

A spokesperson for Museum of Fire said “come on down and see it all live from 11am-Midday this Sunday 27 May 2018 at the Museum of Fire Penrith, as part of the Sydney Classic and Antique Truck Show. Join us and open up a world of fascinating nostalgia and activities for all ages. Come and see trucks from the solid rubber boneshakers of 1914 through to the kings of the highway of the 60’s and 70’s.

Take a journey back in time on one of the vintage double decker bus rides and see Penrith from a different view. Something for everyone including displays by Fire and Rescue NSW, together with the fascinating displays of the Museum of Fire.”

A fantastic family fun day, Adults $15 (includes up to three children under 16 free with paying Adult) Concession $10. After entry all rides and entertainment are free. * For more info on NSW Strongest Man check out PTC Macarthur on Facebook or Sydney Classic & Antique Truck Show.

Get fit at Alwyn Lindfield Reserve Young and old are flocking to Alwyn Lindfield Reserve in Glenwood to improve their fitness levels following the installation of state of the art fitness equipment.

Blacktown City Council installed the fitness stations near the existing playground and picnic areas within the Reserve.

“The new fitness equipment at Alwyn Lindfield Reserve is a great addition for the community

to come and use,” Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said.

“There is movable and static equipment, and the cardio pieces include ‘Green Energy’ which allow the user to generate human powered electricity to charge their mobile phone or tablet while exercising.”

Councillor Julie Griffiths and Councillor Kevin Gillies jointly voted to allocate $100,000 for

the fitness equipment following community requests late last year.

The project opened to the public last month.

“It’s a great installation which will encourage residents to get out and about and exercise outdoors,” Mayor Bali said.

“For those who are too attached to their devices can even have them nearby and charge them as they train on the equipment.”

Community members of all ages head to Alwyn Lyndfield Reserve, Glenwood, to train on the new fitness equipment.

$100,000 Lucky Lotteries win cures Kellyville woman’s Mondayitis!

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Kellyville woman has confessed it will be hard to concentrate at work last Monday after she discovered she is now $100,000 richer from the latest Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw.

The happy winner won the 1st Prize in Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw 10227, drawn on Friday 18 May 2018.

In addition to winning 1st Prize, the winner’s entry of three consecutive numbers also scored a $1,000 consolation prize.

While the draw was conducted on Friday, it wasn’t until Monday morning when a NSW Lotteries official made contact that the woman discovered her win.

“Oh my god!” she screamed when she learnt of her $100,000 windfall.

“It’s unreal. I can’t stop laughing.

“I’ve got no words. I’m speechless.

“I’ve just come to work. It makes a nice start to a Monday. I don’t feel like working, I feel like celebrating. I can’t even fathom this.”

The woman explained she was a regular Lucky Lotteries player, but had never won a prize as big as this before.

“If it’s a dull moment, sometimes I just jump online and buy a few tickets.

I’m glad I did!” she said.

“I have no idea what I’m going to do with this. I’m just going to put it in the bank and let it sink in. I can just enjoy looking at it for a while. That will bring me enough joy. It really will.

“I’ve got nothing to complain about today!”

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Halfway up Vietnam in Hoi An and Hue The Imperial City

Tombs in Hue Streets of Hoi An

Cycling through the Rice Fields

By BEN CRANNEY

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oi An is close to my favourite town in the world. It suffers from too many tourists, like so many beautiful places around the world, but it’s worth trying to get past this.

A trading town on the Thu Bon river delta, it has a fascinating mix of cultures, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese and French. There are a lot of fancy resorts, but I prefer the old town and its attractions, including a Chinese merchant’s house with Confucius’ tea cup. Wander the river side and the streets at night, when the lanterns light up.

Visit the temples to see how the monks live. Enjoy a boat ride down the river, and try and imagine what it would have been like for the merchants of old, coming in with their wares, ready to barter. Then test your own bartering skills on the leather goods or custom made suits. Be picky, though, quality does vary.

My favourite thing is a bike ride amongst the rice paddies. We got hopelessly lost on crisscrossing roads, paths and sheep tracks that no map could document, and I couldn’t have cared less. We cycled past rusted out machinery, wooden shacks with gangs of smoking granddads playing cards, and

hidden temples so peaceful it felt like no one was there. We only turned around when the sheep tracks disappeared.

But we couldn’t stay forever, because we had to get the Da Nang train to Hue. We sat behind a family of four. Their boy, who was maybe three years old, thought my camera was the best thing ever and he loved seeing his photo. Showing him his photo became a game, which we played for a little bit too long. I know this because he urinated on me through the seat.

I didn’t find Hue as charming as Hoi An, but it does have some spectacular sites. Take a guided tour of the Imperial City, home to the Nguyen rulers.

Check out some of the Royal tombs on the Perfume River. These places are more elaborate and more impressive than any resting place or memorial that I’ve ever been. We went to Khai Dinh (my favourite), Tu Doc and Minh Mang. Tag on a stop at the Thien Mu Pagoda to complete the major sites. I would like to go back, though. It’s known for its festivals, which I missed, so perhaps that would have made the difference. Maybe you could tell me about them?

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel What If? There was a strange phenomenon taking place amongst the ladies of the Hawkesbury yesterday and it was known as Harry and Megan Fever. I must say that, living in what could in the not too distant future become a Republic, my still rather British heart was gladdened by this rejoicing. There is nothing like a good old Royal Wedding to warm the cockles of your heart, especially when, sometimes contrary to tradition, the couple are so obviously in love.

The older I get, the more I feel I am becoming an old hand at this wedding watching. I was only a small girl when the then Princess Elizabeth was an incredibly beautiful bride, and there she was, at an age when most ladies would be in lavender, resplendent in a colour few women a third of her age would dare to sport, watching her grandson marry the girl of his dreams.

Like so many others watching on Saturday evening, I was transported to another wedding thirty seven years ago when one of the world’s superstars was created. Who would have thought on that beautiful July day when Lady Diana Spencer walked down the aisle to her destiny what that destiny had in store for her.

During the Eighties, I was living and working in an area of London which was the natural habitat of “Ladies Who Lunch,” a privileged species who had married well and, leaving the mundane minutiae of daily life to long-suffering au pairs, they were able to follow a rather sybaritic life-style including regular visits to psychics. Having worked as a clairvoyant

for more than thirty-five years, I have come across all sorts of clients, often people with problems which would knock most of us sideways, but at that time there were quite a number who suffered from what I called “The Princess Diana Syndrome”. In spite of their pampered existence, these ladies batted from one clairvoyant to another in the hope that true love was just around the corner and they would be whisked away from hard-working husbands, children, nannies and recalcitrant au pairs.

At that time, it was a well-known fact that Princess Di was always on the look-out for a new psychic who would tell her what she wanted to hear about her increasingly tangled love life, and she eventually settled on a lady in the North of England who had a very good reputation and who became her go-to

clairvoyant. In fact, not long before that ill-fated trip to Paris, she even took her then boyfriend, poor old Dodi, up to see her.

I am often asked why the medium didn’t foresee Diana’s death and warn her. Well, nobody knows what went on in those sessions, but from my experience, we don’t foresee death. We can see paths ahead but circumstances change and we always have free will. Telling someone they are going to kick the bucket is somewhat akin to the witch doctor pointing the bone. What I suspect is that she may have been counselled to steer clear of Paris or fast cars, but who knows. And what if she had taken that advice? Would she now be happily married herself?

And what would have been the state of the British Monarchy?

One thing I do know is that in whatever world she would be inhabiting now, nothing would stop Diana being at her younger son’s wedding. I would bet good money on the fact that somewhere among the congregation yesterday was a very elegant, though slightly misty lady sporting a wonderful hat and shedding a tear to see her boy marrying the girl of his dreams. *Our next discussion group will be on Wednesday 23rd May at 6.30pm at Hawkesbury Natural Therapies Centre, Level 1, 187 Windsor Street, Richmond. Tel: 4578 8868 or email suzisamuel24@ gmail.com The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

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ance and science will collide at Riverside Theatres with DANscienCE Moving Well, a one-day event featuring performances, talks, a panel discussion and films.

Presented by FORM Dance Projects and Riverside Theatres, the program will feature guest dance artists and health specialists exploring the nexus between dance, science, health, wellbeing and longevity.

DANscienCE Moving Well has been curated by award-winning choreographer, performer and producer, Liz Lea, who said the day will delve into current research and practice in the areas of dance and health, and how it brings value to our bodies at varying stages of life.

“The day will include 15 incredible speakers hailing from across Australia, the US and the UK who will discuss topics such as mental health, connection to country, technique, mixed abilities and recovery from illness. In addition, there will be inspiring performances and film screenings to check out throughout the day. I highly recommend everyone to get along to this celebration of dance and science!”

Patron of the event, Professor Graham Farquhar AO, a distinguished scientist, former professional dancer and 2018 Senior Australian of the Year acknowledges, “As a dancer I made a wonderful

biophysicist.”

The DANscienCE Moving Well program includes: Thought-provoking talks by experts in health and movement.

A panel discussion between dance and health professionals on ways the arts and science can come together to improve wellbeing. The panel will include Graham Farquhar and will be moderated by awardwinning author and journalist, Caroline Baum.

Inspiring short performances by the GOLDS, a dance group for people aged 55 years and over; and Offbeat Dance Group, comprised of members with Parkinson’s Disease.

Film screenings of On View: Icons (Excerpts)

by Sue Healey, a collection of portraits of iconic dance artists, including a rare live performance by dance legend Eileen Kramer (103 years-old); and Michelle’s Story by Meryl Tankard, an insight into

the world of dance and disability through the journey of Michelle Ryan, a celebrated Australian dancer with Multiple Sclerosis.

RED, a new solo work by Liz Lea inspired by her experiences with endometriosis, featuring dance, film, spoken word and song. Lea was recipient of the 2017 ACT Artist of the Year Award and a 2017 Australian Dance Award.

For the full program, visit: www.form.org.au/ moving-well DANscienCE Moving Well When: 10am to 9pm on Saturday 2nd June Tickets: Tickets start at $65 for Adults and $38 for Seniors/Concession - from the Box Office (02) 8839 3399 or www.riversideparramatta.com.au Where: Riverside Theatres – Corner of Church and Market Streets, Parramatta Trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4z34-HNnNo

Western News 25 May 2018 Issue 60

DANscienCE Moving Well

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Western News 25 May 2018 Issue 60

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WESTERN HISTORY

The Legend of the Death Bird (Part 2)

By Jack Brook Blacktown and District Historical Society Continued from last edition....

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he old man was enraged. He had completed the fulfillment of his desires for the beautiful young Wandah, and to thus be thwarted at the last minute roused the devils of his late ancestors in him, and he appealed to the chief for the tribal ordeal. The old chief tried to persuade Wandah to accept her destiny of marriage with the old man, but she refused and prepared for the ideal. Five spears were given to the old man, who was placed in a ring twelve paces from his intended victim, now standing alertly poised in front of a tree with a small shield on her arm.

Fearless, she faced him, her eyes noting his every movement. The first spear just grazed her shoulder, the next three she deftly side stepped, glancing them off with her shield. The old man’s aim was evidently suffering from his excitement and anger. He took more time with the last spear, which failing to ward off, entered the upper part of her left arm.

According to tribal law, Wandah was now free. But as her young lover went to her aid, the old man took up two more spears, plunging the first into the back of her lover and the other straight through the heart of Wandah, both fell dead as the enraged men of the tribe fell upon the old man whom they clubbed to death.

Wandah and her lover were buried near the banks of the creek, almost in line with where the old Bungarribee homestead once stood. From time to time, so runs the legend, the spirit of Wandah flies round the scene of her former life in the form of the death bird, which always heralds the approach of death of the descendants of her race, once the proud possessors of the hunting grounds of Bungarribee and Doonside.

After the death of Wandah and her lover Bomeree and the clubbing to death of their murderer by the young men of the tribe, there was much trouble in the camp between their near relations. It eventually came to a head and resulted in a general melee wherein several were killed and many wounded. When at last the chief managed to separate the warring factions he found himself left with only half his tribe, the relatives of the dead lovers having separated and moved off to the vicinity of the Hawkesbury River, never again to return to their former tribal companions.

Bungroo, the older chief of the Bungarribee tribe was greatly upset at the division of his people. It had left him with greatly diminished forces to meet the raids of neighboring tribes continually trespassing on his tribe’s hunting grounds. Many severe tribal fights resulted from these depredations. The chief was a mighty warrior of great renown amongst the surrounding tribes and noted for his great feats of strength and bravery in the frequent clashes with his neighbours. His tall muscular figure wielding his great club as he charged at the head of the opposing fighting men struck terror into the hearts of his enemies.

For many years he had been a terror to the would be raiders of his

hunting grounds, the major prize of which was the waterhole, which was later to become the location of Prospect Reservoir, then the home of many water fowl including wild ducks. This lagoon had for ages been a bone of contention between the Bungarribee tribe across the creek whose hunting grounds extended out west to the river, now know as the Nepean. The two tribes had for many years been deadly enemies and the river tribe was always on alert to accomplish the downfall of Bungaroo and his people.

Only the great fighting abilities of Bungaroo had kept them inside their own boundaries.

Bungarribee tribe members had noticed after the death of Wandah a strange bird had been seen flying around the district and at night when it was seen it was heard to emit pathetic mournful wailings as a child in distress. Following the visits of this bird there was a sickness and death amongst them and it became a belief amongst the tribe that if any of their number was sick and they heard birds wailing that the sick would die. The tribe accepted the bird’s presence as a curse upon them for the murder of Wandah and it struck terror into their hearts.

Several years after the problems in the Bungarribee tribe the River tribe again raided, defeated and killed many warriors including the chief Bungaroo. They took control of the waterway and made off with the Bungarribee women and children. The death bird had been seen and heard many times during the previous days and the Bungarribee tribe was expecting big trouble from somewhere.

The River tribe took the Bungarribee women and children and incorporated them into their own tribe. They also took ownership of Prospect Lagoon and it remained among their hunting grounds until the white man finally drove them from the district.

In this story of the death of the great chief Bungaroo and the massacre of the Bungarribee tribe we see fulfillment of the prevailing belief in the superstition regarding the appearance of the Death Bird. Since the death of Wandah this belief has foretold death and disaster to descendants of the Bungarribee tribe who roamed the district before the coming of the white man.

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Western News

What to consider before renovating?

The decision to renovate is a common sticking point for homeowners, who can spend hours weighing up the cost benefits.

Whether your motivation is to add value to your property or to add a touch of your personality to the home, renovations are expensive and debt often follows.

By working with a Wealthwiz mortgage broker you will be able to find solutions that benefit your longterm goal, rather than hindering future plans.

While your Wealthwiz broker can’t assist you with forecasts on future property values, he or she can help you reassess your current financial position, run through your plans and future payments, and decide if you can afford to take on more debt.

Laying the foundations With a broker in your corner, the next step is to investigate how much you need to borrow. Work out the specifics of your renovation, what the average cost to renovate is in your area and how much you are eligible to borrow. You should aim to spend no more than five per cent of your property’s value on renovation.

If renovations are likely to take over your living quarters you may need to also consider the additional cost of accommodation for the renovation period.. This is another cost to factor into your budget.

Get bang for your buck Once you decide to renovate, if you are trying to add value to a house to resell, it is important to look at the rooms and areas that will add the most

value. These are average renovation prices, however prices will fluctuate based on the city and suburb.

• Kitchen If you are a fan of the show The Block, you will know kitchens sell houses. According to realestate.com. au, the average renovation cost you should be spending on a kitchen is between $12,000 and $16,000. ● Bathroom The average bathroom space in Australia is six square metres. Look to spend around $9,000 - $12,000 as the bathroom is a highly trafficked space and needs to appeal to a wide variety of investors. ● Other areas An extra bedroom or a deck outside both add appeal and improve the standard of living for the homeowners.

@wealthwiz

Finishing touches The final hurdle to look at is the council fee. The council can charge you up to $2,000 for an application fee, although prices can vary. After speaking to a broker and finalising the renovation, make sure you account for an extra 10 per cent in your funds, to cover any unexpected costs.

Deciding on the type of loan If after the assessment and investigation you decide to renovate, there are three types of loans to consider to help refinance and renovate your house: a line of credit loan, a construction loan or increasing your existing home loan.

Contact your broker To make sure you get a great outcome, speak to Alex Soncini from Wealthwiz an MFAA Accredited Finance Broker to find out more.

#wealthwizau

WealthWiz Wealth Management | Suite 3, 47-51 Richmond Rd, Blacktown Call 8004 6655 | www.wealthwiz.com.au

Light up your home with natural light A well-illuminated home is always more inviting than a dark, poorly lit one. But not all light is created equal and the benefits of natural light, which include improved moods and health, far outweigh those of traditional lighting sources. Discover how Solatube’s Daylighting Systems can enhance your home and quality of life.

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ustralians love the outdoors and if we had our way we’d be spending much more of our time outside. Unfortunately most people spend up to 90 per cent of their time inside and this means less exposure to natural light – a situation that can have a negative effect on your health.

Spending time inside also tends to increase exposure to artificial light sources, such as computer screens and televisions. More natural light can help to counteract this. An affordable, simple and quick solution is to install a Solatube Daylighting System. This system allows natural light into your house without transferring the heat.

Natural is best Natural light can improve your health and well-being by releasing serotonin that boosts energy levels and your overall mood. But it’s not always practical to spend time outside, which is where the Solatube Daylighting System comes in.

“Exposure to adequate amounts of natural light has been proven to encourage people to exercise more and to help them maintain regular circadian rhythms, which influence

daily sleep and waking patterns,” says Solatube’s Brett Dickson.

By effectively capturing and bringing daylight into your interiors from the early morning until late afternoon, Solatube’s solutions can improve your health while reducing your need to rely on other traditional sources of lighting.

Increase your home’s buyer appeal and market value How often have you seen a property promoted with the words: “lightfilled interiors”? Real estate agent John Smyth of The Madison Agency

in Sydney’s north, says skylights add value to a home: “The amount of natural light a home receives can influence its appeal, the length of time it’s on the market and its sale price,” he explains. “A skylight enhances a room even on overcast days.”

Adding aesthetics, form and function Natural light provides an easy way to enhance your home, but Solatube doesn’t stop there. We also have various lighting fixtures and accessories to further enhance your interiors - and

suit your home’s style and aesthetics.

From practical, elegant and dazzling Decorative Lighting Fixtures; wallmounted daylight dimmers; stylish add-on kits to keep your home bright long after nightfall; to ‘effect lenses’, which adjust the light and offer choices to soften or warm the light colour.

A Solatube Daylighting System is one of the easiest, quickest and most affordable ways to effectively bring the right amount of natural light into your home to help improve its look and your health.

13 Western News 25 May 2018 Issue 60

Alex Soncini

REAL ESTATE

Western News 25 May 2018 Issue 60

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Western News

SPORT

Parra secures Junior on four year deal

By CONNER LOWE

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he Parramatta Eels have had an eventful last week regarding their players.

Beau Scott suffered a season ending injury, Kenny Edwards was released from the club and former player Junior Paulo re-signed with the club on a four year deal.

The Parramatta Eels Rugby League Club confirmed the signing of Canberra Raiders front row forward Junior Paulo on a four year contract commencing in 2019 and concluding at the end of the 2022 NRL season.

The powerful front rower is a Parramatta Eels local junior and made his NRL debut for the Parramatta Eels in 2013, playing over 50 games before moving to Canberra in 2016.

Brad Arthur, the Parramatta Eels Head Coach said he was excited about the return of Junior to the Eels line-up.

“I’m looking forward to having Junior back at Parramatta. It is always great to have a local Parramatta Eels junior return to our Club and I know Junior will be an asset to our team next year,” he said.

Junior was rewarded the Mal Meninga Medal in 2017 as Canberra Raiders Player of the Year and finished

the season by representing Samoa in the World Cup. The Parramatta Eels co-captain Beau Scott has suffered a season ending knee injury following Friday night’s clash against the New Zealand Warriors.

Scans determined that Beau suffered a ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) to the left knee in the second half. Beau has been an integral part of

the Parramatta Eels Club and everyone wishes him a speedy recovery.

The Parramatta Eels Club released a statement last week regarding Kenny Edwards after he asked for a release from his contract.

Bernie Gurr, the CEO of the Parramatta Eels spoke about Kenny’s time at the club and wish him the best for the future.

“Today Kenny Edwards, through

his management company, requested a release from his NRL Playing Contract with Parramatta National Rugby League Club Pty Limited. This release was granted by the Club effective immediately,” he said.

“The club would like to thank Kenny for his on field contribution during his time with our Club and we wish Kenny and his family all the very best in the future.”

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 What Nero was

doing (8) 5 Grins (6) 9 Killer (8) 10 Precipitated flakes (6) 12 Lack of bravery (9) 13 Encircles a picture (5) 14 Male ruler (4) 16 Spartan (7) 19 Relationship

between lovers (7) 21 Found in some skin

lotions (4) 24 Former French

currency (5) 25 Estimate (9) 27 Preferring (6) 28 Singer (8) 29 More unhappy (6) 30 Colossus (8)

solution 11/5/18

down 1 Debacle (6) 2 Disinherit (6) 3 Not a winner (5) 4 Fastening two pieces of wood (7) 6 A public declaration (9) 7 Legislator (8) 8 Made unhappy (8) 11 Queen of the gods (Greek

mythology) (4) 15 Naivete (9) 17 Creamy chocolate candies (8) 18 Ventured (8) 20 They come from chickens (4) 21 Windflower (7) 22 A style of half mask (6) 23 Draw (6) 26 The Final Frontier (5)

Western News

with MARK GEYER

Walking the walk for a great cause

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 Children’s ward at Nepean Hospital

s you read this column, the Great Walk Foundation will be two days into our annual trek from Bathurst to Blaxland.

This is our 11th year walking the 170kms and it seems to come around quicker each year! But it’s still just as enjoyable, because the reason for the yearly grind is to raise much-needed funds for local charities here in the greater west of Sydney.

Penrith community kitchen, Queen of Hearts Foundation, Riding for the Disabled, Lithgow Hospital, Katoomba Hospital, and Nepean Hospital children’s ward have all been beneficiaries of the over 1 million dollars we’ve raised thus far.

The kids ward at Nepean Hospital is an especially close to the heart charity as all 10 walkers have kids of our own. We have managed to obtain for them two much-needed humidicribs over the years and we now have our own ‘Great Walk Foundation’ room dedicated to our efforts.

This alone is totally worth the soreness and blisters that appear yearly.

This Thursday (24th) we have our big fundraising night along the way at the Gardner’s inn at Blackheath where I’ll be joined by Bill Ashurst and Dougy Walters for a sportsman’s dinner kicking off at 630pm with all invited to the free event. My great mate Stu Mathie aka Charlie Sheen will then play a live acoustic show of Angels songs entertaining all on hand.

Thanks to all that help along the way, your time and assistance is so so valued. We finish this Saturday night (26th) and will be having a big shindig at the Lapstone Hotel at Blaxland, again all are invited.

If you have a spare dollar or two and wish to help go to www.

15 15 Western News 25 May 2018 Issue 60

MG on the mark

SPORT

 Our room at the Nepean kids ward

greatwalkflundation.com.au or head to our social pages. https://www. greatwalkfoundation.com.au/ And another thing...

Like most, my NSW origin team changes daily. Here’s the 17 I’d have running out for game 1 on Wednesday June 6 for what it’s worth...

1. James Tedesco 2. Nick Cotric 3. Tom Trbojevic 4. James Roberts 5. Josh Addo Carr 6. James Maloney 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Reagan Campbell Gillard 9. Damien Cook 10. Paul Vaughan 11. Tyson Frizelle 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Tyrone Peachey 15. David Klemmer 16. Jack De Belin 17. Trent Merrin See you at the game...

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AFTER

Western News Friday, 25 May 2018

SPORT

Wanderers announce Babbel as Head Coach

By CONNER LOWE

T

he NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers today announced the signing of Markus Babbel as new Head Coach of the club for the next three years.

The former German international (51 caps), Bayern Munich and Liverpool defender comes to the club with a rich coaching pedigree following successful spells at FC Luzern in Switzerland and in Germany with Hertha Berlin, Hoffenheim and Stuttgart.

A talented footballer, Babbel’s transition into coaching has been a successful one including winning promotion to the Bundesliga with Hertha Berlin and qualifying for Champions League football with Stuttgart.

Most recently the head coach of Swiss Super League side FC Luzern, where he coached former Wanderers fan favourite Tomi Juric, Babbel comes to Australia with a good knowledge of Australian players

having also previously coached Nikita Rukavytsya in Berlin.

Paul Lederer, the Wanderers Chairman said that Babbel was the right man to lead the Wanderers into the next phase of their growth.

“Today we have made a statement about our future and I am very proud to announce Markus Babbel as our new Head Coach,” he said.

“In the next 18-months we will have our new training facility finished, our new stadium open

and our club ready to take another giant.

“Having a coach like Markus involved with this club will make us a force in this league as we strive to win trophies, return to the AFC Champions League and make a statement not only in Australia but internationally as a football club.”

The Wanderers fans have been pleading for a new coach to be announced and with the news of former head coach Tony Popovic

announced as the new Perth Glory coach, fans were getting frustrated.

Markus Babbel, Wanderers head coach said he is delighted to be in Australia and thanks the club for putting faith in him.

“I am very proud and very happy to be here,” he said.

“I had really good conversations with the club when they came to visit me in Germany and I could see the fever in their eyes about the vision and what Western Sydney would like to do in the next couple of years.

“I was thinking about it and talking to friends who know about the Australian league and I said to my wife that I have a good feeling and I’m ready now for a new experience.

“I’m looking forward and I would like to say thank you to the club for trusting in me and I will give 100% towards our vision.”

The Western Sydney Wanderers will be hopeful that Babbel can lead the club to the finals and win some silverware during the 2018/19 season after a disappointing end to the 2017/18 season saw them miss out on the finals.