Western News 1 October 2021

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ISSUE 145

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Outdoor swimming pools at four of Blacktown City’s leisure and aquatic centres opened their doors bright and early on Monday, 27 September after the easing of some COVID-19 restrictions. See page 14 for full story.

Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

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New ‘C’ litter police pups officially named by kids at children’s hospital

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he NSW Police Force has officially announced the arrival of six new German Shepherd puppies who have been named by young patients from the Sydney Children’s Hospital.

The four female and two male pups from the ‘C litter’ were born to Bonnie (mother) and Vegas (father) on Monday 21 May 2021.

The Dog and Mounted Command asked for help from patients at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, to vote on their favourite names for the pups, starting with the letter C. The females have been named Cody, Carrie, Carol, and Cali, while the boys have been called Charger and Coops.

The opportunity to name a puppy was a positive distraction for eightyear-old Alice, who unexpectedly needed to spend several hours in the emergency department.

“I wanted to name the puppy Cody because my best friend’s name is Cody, and dogs are her favourite animal,” Alice said.

Four-year-old Nate, a surgical patient at the hospital, voted for the name Charger.

“I picked Charger because it sounded like a really good Police dog name,” Nate said.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott welcomed the

latest furry additions to the police family.

“These pups represent the next generation of the Force’s Police Dog team, one of the most highly-trained and respected in the world,” Mr Elliott said.

“I join the children, who named the pups, in following the progress of the C-litter; I know they will achieve great things in the future,” he said.

Superintendent Michael Rochester, Dog and Mounted Commander, said

the children had left a lasting imprint on the Dog Unit with the naming of the newest canine recruits.

“Unfortunately, this year the kids weren’t able to meet the pups in person because of the pandemic, but we were very glad we could get them involved virtually,” Superintendent Rochester said.

“If these pups are successful through their training, they’ll go on to help the community in many ways. Our dogs are used to find missing people, assist

in pursuits, detect drugs, explosives and other paraphernalia, and have a variety of other specialist functions which make them an invaluable law enforcement capability.”

Andrea Fuller, patron of the Dog and Mounted Command, said it was only fitting that the children from Sydney Children’s Hospital named the new pups.

“These are some of the strongest and bravest children in our community, so it seems natural for them to be given the opportunity to name our newest frontline heroes,” Mrs Fuller said.

“The pups of ‘C’ litter are a very welcome addition to the Dog and Mounted Command and will no doubt continue to develop into a valuable law enforcement capability, as well as loyal friends to their handlers.”

The pups are currently being exposed to new environments and experiences as they undergo their foundational training.

New western Sydney National Park to lead fight against extinction

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uolls, bettongs and the brush-tailed phascogale are just some of the locally extinct species making their historic return to a new National Park and feral predator-free area in western Sydney.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the 500 hectare site at Shanes Park between Penrith and Windsor will be one of the largest new National Parks in western Sydney in over a decade.

“The pandemic has shown us how important our open public spaces are, they are critical to our mental and physical well-being,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This project will not only allow the people of western Sydney a new place to enjoy the outdoors but they will also get to access a conservation area and one of the nation’s best wildlife experiences.”

Of the 30 species to be reintroduced 12 will be given priority: • Brown Antechinus • Eastern Bettong • Eastern Quoll • Southern Long-nosed Bandicoot • New Holland Mouse • Brush-tailed Phascogale • Common Dunnart • Bush Rat • Emu • Koala • Bush Stone-curlew • Green and Golden Bell Frog Up to 20 additional locally extinct and declining reptile and frog species

Emus and koalas will be reintroduced into the new National Park.

will also be reintroduced into Shanes Park.

Environment Minister Matt Kean said the new Shanes Park site will become a tourist destination and will allow visitors to see what the Australian bush was like over 200 years ago.

“This is wildlife restoration on a grand scale and one of the biggest urban wildlife restoration projects in Australia’s history,” Mr Kean said.

“No where else in the country is the reintroduction of 30 species in an urban setting of over 500 hectares even being considered, let alone being delivered.”

“Visiting Shanes Park will be like stepping back in time to see the Australian bush alive with native animals as it was before foxes, cats and rabbits had such a devastating

impact.”

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said this project will be a welcome addition to the growing list of attractions bringing tourists to Western Sydney.

“This will become a must see destination for visitors not only from greater Sydney and across the state but also from interstate and around the world,” Mr Ayres said.

“They will be able to see and experience some of our most unique, threatened and endangered wildlife and habitats right here in the heart of Western Sydney.”

Shanes Park is one of seven feralfree areas either established or being established in NSW National Parks providing a conservation benefit to over 50 threatened species.

“A network of predator-free areas is an essential part of our strategy to protect and restore our most vulnerable native species and this new project will bring the total feral-free area in NSW national parks to almost 65,000 hectares,” Mr Kean said.

Public access to the new National Park is expected by early 2023 which will include a one of a kind visitor experience including visitor facilities, interpretive signage and an education centre which will run nocturnal spotlighting tours.

Establishment of the feral free area will begin with the construction of specialist perimeter fencing which is expected to begin in the next three months. The new National Park will be declared in early 2022 following consultation with Aboriginal groups on an Aboriginal name.

Western News

LOCAL NEWS

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lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has paid a visit to the Blacktown Emergency Operations Centre to thank frontline workers keeping Blacktown City safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The EOC was established at Mt Druitt Police Station in July in response to the latest outbreak and to assist the Blacktown City community with food and welfare needs during lockdown.

For almost two months, the Centre has worked hand in hand with Blacktown City Council, NSW Police, Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Ambulance, the Department of Communities and Justice, Transport for NSW and 36 local charities.

Mayor Bleasdale said, “On behalf of Blacktown City Council, I wish to thank our hard-working emergency crews and volunteers for their incredible work during this toughest stage of the pandemic so far.

“Our local police are doing a fantastic job assisting those in our community who have contracted the virus, as well as their families and those who have been forced to isolate.

“Our City is fortunate to have dozens of volunteers who are dedicated to ensuring nobody goes hungry packing and delivering food hampers for those in need.”

(L-R) Sgt Ineke Romeyn, Sgt Pauline Ross, Insp Guy Magee, Sgt Steve Vultetas, Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Sgt Kel Pilgram, Blacktown City Council Local Emergency Management Officer Surinder Aneja and Snr Constable Olivia Ferreria at the Blacktown Emergency Operations Centre at Mt Druitt Police Station.

Mt Druitt Police Inspector Guy Magee said of the Centre, “Our function primarily is to support the State Government in the implementation of the Public Health Orders and to ensure the appropriate mechanisms are in place around welfare and messaging - and to make sure nobody is falling through the cracks or going hungry.

“The main ways we’re doing this are through our partnerships with Council,

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non-government organisations and cultural leaders in the community to identify any emerging issues.”

Foodbank, The Pacific Islands Mt Druitt Action Network and Meals on Wheels are just some of the many community organisations working long hours to help some of the City’s most vulnerable and isolated residents.

Since the end of July, the Foodbank distribution centre in Glendenning

has delivered more than 30,000 food packages across Blacktown City alone.

Mayor Bleasdale thanked emergency services staff and volunteers for their invaluable work.

“Thank you to our EOC staff and local charities for their unwavering dedication at this time,” he said.

“Together, Blacktown City can get through this if we stay safe, wear a mask and get vaccinated.”

Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

Mayor praises staff at Blacktown COVID-19 Emergency Operations Centre

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Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

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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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o we’re been given a set of road maps by the NSW Government that will see us “out of lockdown and back to freedom,” as the Premier puts it.

It’s a three-stage process with various easing of restrictions at each phase; 70 percent vaccinated (likely 11th October) 80 percent vaccinated (likely towards the end of the month) and then basically a free for all come December 1.

While it’s great to see some light at the end of a very long lockdown tunnel, there are more grey areas than there are on the heads of most who have had to go three months without a hairdresser.

I don’t envy Gladys Berejiklian or the NSW Health team. This pandemic has been a minefield and they’ve had to make unpopular and lifestyle-changing decisions during the most unpredictable time in NSW history.

It is an astronomical task, and there’s no way to please all of the people.

The Premier has said over and over that it doesn’t bother her if people don’t like her or her decisions. Good call, because there will be haters.

But is not a time to bow down to fringe groups, play ‘please the media’ or sugar-coat things for the renegades. Make a call, stand by it and provide clarity.

I’ve spoken to lots of people this week, including tradies, emergency services, politicians and business owners. While all have expressed differing opinions, the one thing they all want is clarity. The rules need to be clear.

With the government’s prediction that cases “will go through the roof” when we open up, most people want crystal clear rules on what happens at venues once exposed to a positive case. Does it mean a deep cleanse? Will alerts still go out? Will the QR entry still be in place? Will the venue have to temporarily close?

Businesses want clear rules on what they do about unvaccinated patrons. They don’t want to hear that it is their own decision, they want the government to make the decisions so they can state that they are following the rules. They don’t want to be arguing ‘sovereign rights’ with the unvaxxed, and they don’t want the backlash from their vaccinated patrons who were expecting a fully vaccinated environment.

They signed up to be small business owners, not the police.

I think if the government reads the room they’ll see that while there’s a lot of noise from minorities, most people go with the flow. They just need the flow to be black or white, not grey.

On another note, set your clocks forward before bed this Saturday for the start of Daylight Saving! And set yourself up in front of the telly to watch the Mighty Panthers win the grand final!

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Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

Nsw Government invests in Tafe nsw teachers

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he NSW Government is investing $1 million to fund training for industry experts who want to pursue a rewarding career change as a TAFE NSW teacher.

The investment will allow 200 industry professionals across the State to upskill with guaranteed employment at TAFE NSW. This is in addition to $3.1 million from the NSW Government to fund 525 scholarships across the state since 2019.

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the scholarships will give those that have years of experience in their field the opportunity to grow the industries they love by training the next generation.

“TAFE NSW teachers are highly experienced in their industries, and the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is the formal qualification which enables them to train the next generation,” Mr Lee said.

“With the scholarship covering the fees, this will ensure the best and brightest in high-demand industries like engineering, plumbing, carpentry, electrotechnology, nursing, early childhood education and aged care consider a career as a TAFE NSW

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teacher, without needing to weigh up the cost.

“What sets TAFE NSW teachers apart is that they not only pass on their knowledge and expertise, but they have professional networks which are a vital connection to jobs for students.”

“Teachers play an incredibly significant role in the lives of students.

That’s why we’re investing in the best of industry to work at TAFE NSW and help us shape the future workforce.

Applications are open for world-class educators, innovative industry experts and motivated administration staff to join TAFE’s dynamic organisation.

Positions include full-time, part-time and casual basis, spanning over 130 locations across NSW and online.

For more information on the Training and Assessment Scholarships, visit: www.tafensw.edu.au/jobs

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otentially deadly skin cancers will be detected and treated faster thanks to a worldfirst 3D imaging system now available in the Westmead Health Precinct.

Westmead Hospital is home to one of 15 of the state-of-the-art machines in Australia, which undertakes full body mapping in 3D – allowing researchers to investigate and track moles and skin spots over time.

The new 3D scanner could be a “game changer” for early skin cancer diagnosis and intervention, according to Westmead Hospital Department of Dermatolog head, Professor Pablo Fernández-Peñas.

“We will have, in just one photo, the whole body scan. So we will be able to get a baseline photo of every patient, and then we can follow these people along the years and see if any lesion changes or grows and looks like it’s going to grow into a melanoma,” Professor Fernández-Peñas said.

“Then as soon as it starts to change we can remove it.”

Australia has the world’s highest rates of melanoma – a serious form of skin cancer that kills 1,300 Australians every year.

It is the most common cancer affecting 15-39 year olds and is highly treatable if detected early.

centre of excellence in diagnostic imaging of early melanoma.

Learn more and register your interest now at www.acrf.com.au.

The Westmead Health Precinct is one of the largest health, education, research, innovation and training precincts in Australia, featuring four major hospitals, four world-leading medical research institutes, two university campuses and the largest research intensive pathology service in NSW.

The Westmead Hospital dermatology team.

(Note: this image was taken before masks were required in hospital)

Professor Fernández-Peñas said the technology will be more comprehensive than the current method of documenting every spot with a handheld camera.

The Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) is now searching for an initial 15,000 people to take part in the Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis (ACEMID) initiative.

The scans will be part of a database that will help develop an algorithm, so cancer can be detected sooner using artificial intelligence.

Professor Fernández-Peñas encouraged people in western Sydney to register their interest now – and get vaccinated for COVID-19.

“We are ready to go as soon as everybody gets vaccinated,” he said.

ACRF ACEMID brings together three leading Australian universities in skin research: The University of Queensland, The University of Sydney, and Monash University in Victoria.

Together, they are creating a 3D total body skin imaging network, which will form an interconnected

Westmead Hospital dermatology department head Professor Pablo Fernández-Peñas.

Share your pandemic story in new ‘The Light at the end of the Tunnel’ book Sydneysiders are invited to share their stories of living through the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a new book project in partnership with Blacktown City Libraries.

Quakers Hill storyteller Emie Roy, through ‘The Stories Untold’, will partner with Blacktown City Libraries and the Community Migrant Resource Centre to compile 50 real-life stories from Greater Sydney during the once-in-a-100-year pandemic.

The book, titled The Light at the end of the tunnel, will document the many lows and rare highs of the pandemic experience across cultures through words and pictures.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the project was important in keeping a record of this unprecedented time.

“We know how challenging the COVID-19 pandemic has been for everyone, especially in Blacktown City, so it is vital that we collate these

stories for sharing and reflection,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“I encourage people young and old to write their stories down and submit them for inclusion in this important book.”

Stories can include anecdotes, reflections, thoughts, experiences or something you are looking forward to once the pandemic settles.

High-resolution pictures, as well as headshots of contributing writers are also encouraged.

Ms Roy said she was inspired to embark on the project after witnessing many extraordinary moments during the pandemic.

“These two years of pandemic have exposed me to so many unparalleled experiences, as to what I have seen, heard and experienced,” she said.

“It shifted my perspective and taught me that selflessness is the biggest virtue. Either we all exist or we all perish together, which makes every human

being’s story equally important.”

She encouraged contributors to reflect on their experiences of kindness, hope, despair or fear to share with future generations.

“Some of us cried, some of us bargained, some were fearful, some were angry, some hopeful, some reflective and some positive - and it’s important that we capture all of these stories,” Ms Roy said.

“It’s important we save them for generations to come, for them to know what human life has been through, and what it is worth.”

Entries should be a maximum of 300 words and can be submitted via email at thestoriesuntoldmedia@ gmail.com by 15 October 2021.

For more information visit: thestoriesuntold.com. au/book-project The finished project is expected to be published in early 2022 with a book launch planned for March next year.

Western Sydney University continues to rise in prestigious global rankings

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estern Sydney University has continued to rise in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, being named among the top 250 universities globally for the first time.

The 2022 results, released recently, saw the University rise five places to be ranked 13th nationally, and enter the 201-250 ranking band globally. The results also saw improvements in industry engagement, international outlook and a 79-place improvement in teaching outcomes.

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings are the only global performance tables that judge research-intensive universities across all core missions: teaching, research, knowledge

transfer and international outlook. The rankings use 13 carefully calibrated performance indicators to provide the most comprehensive and balanced comparisons, trusted by students, academics, university leaders, industry, and governments.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, congratulated the University community on the excellent results.

“These ranking improvements are testament to the University’s continued dedication to excellence, innovation and establishing meaningful links with industry and the communities we serve,” said Professor Glover.

“The University’s impressive teaching results are especially pleasing and highlight Western’s

commitment to inspiring students to become the next generation of innovators, thought leaders and civic-minded citizens.”

The 2022 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings add to the University’s impressive list of credentials and recognition as a world leader in education, research and innovation.

This includes being ranked 20th in Australia and 346th in the world in the Academic Ranking of World Universities; 6th in Australia and 34th in the world in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings; 17th in the world in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings; and top 500 in the QS World University Rankings.

Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

Westmead Hospital home to world-first advance in early melanoma detection

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Easing restrictions to get tradies back on the tools in NSW

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he NSW Government eased restrictions for the construction industry, by resuming full capacity at unoccupied construction sites with COVID-safe plans, and removing the cap on outdoor workers at occupied premises from last Monday, so long as vaccination requirements are met.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the construction industry was crucial to the NSW economy contributing around $46.8 billion each year and directly employing 380,000 people.

“Construction is going to play a key role in our economic recovery and it’s vital we get tradies back on the tools as quickly and safely as possible,” Mr Perrottet said.

“The industry has shown the way when it comes to getting back to work and is a prime example of how our workplaces will progressively reopen as we reach vaccination targets and will provide a much-needed boost to the State’s economy.”

From Monday 27 September, the cap on construction was removed completely for all unoccupied construction sites, and the cap on the number of outdoor workers at occupied sites was also removed.

Workforce vaccination requirements and requirements for COVID-safe site

Donnelley construction contractor site manager Dave Denford back at work at the Blacktown Hospital site

plans remain in place.

Workers from LGAs of concern who meet vaccination requirements are already permitted to leave their LGAs for construction on unoccupied sites.

From Monday 27 September, workers were also able to leave their LGAs to do outdoor work on occupied sites, provided they meet the current vaccination requirements for authorised workers.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said the easing of restrictions is an important step on the road to construction fully reopening in NSW

and to keeping people in jobs.

“The announcement comes in recognition of the effort made by the construction industry to put COVID

safe practices in place and to get workers vaccinated in large numbers.

Those other measures will remain in place even once the cap is lifted,” Mr Ayres said “We would like to thank the industry for the work they have put in to get the right outcome for the industry and for the wider community.”

“Getting vaccinated workers back on the tools as soon as possible is our priority, but we need to ensure it is done in a safe way to protect both workers and the community.”

To ensure the safety of the community, all current restrictions on indoor work at occupied premises will remain in place.

For the latest on COVID restrictions visit www.nsw.gov.au

Support for HSC students as COVID prompts mental health surge

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n emergency support program and a referral-based program for teenagers with existing mental health conditions have been set up by Western Sydney Local Health District’s Child and Youth Mental Health Service to support students during their HSC year.

The ENABLE (Engaging Assertively and Building Links to Empower) and Stepping Stones programs, which are designed for young people with severe mental health issues, have been tailored and reformed to create the “HSC and Beyond” group.

Emergency department navigation team peer support worker Shameel said that mental health support has been particularly important in a time of unprecedented change and uncertainty.

“We wanted to create a crisis centred program that allowed support to be given to students presenting to our hospitals in distress,” Shameel said.

“COVID-19 has uprooted a lot of traditional study techniques that students would undergo in preparation for the HSC. Online learning, homeschooling and that loss of connection to peers can impact mental health.”

Primarily located in the emergency department at Westmead and Blacktown hospitals, Shameel and colleague Carly Boaler have set up an emergency, peer-based program that enables students to access ongoing mental health support in the weeks following an ED presentation.

“As the HSC draws near, we have seen a large increase in mental health-related presentations to our emergency departments,” Shameel said.

“There was a lot of uncertainty about whether or not the exams would go ahead due to COVID-19 – causing a lot of stress and anxiety for many young students.”

The “HSC and Beyond” group was previously a singular module of the Stepping Stones program but is now offered to students as a standalone program given the high demand for mental health support.

Once presenting to the emergency department, students are able to access one-on-one peer support and weekly group support sessions for the 28 days following.

The sessions offer helpful tips on managing stress and anxiety levels throughout the HSC, tips for productivity, healthy habits, and the options available for students beyond the exam period.

Shameel said this service has had great engagement so far with many students getting involved.

“Our work is crisis based – we are trying to help the students presenting to ED mitigate their problems.

“The HSC is important, and we encourage every student to give it their best effort, but the results do not dictate your career path. Mental health is just as important as these exams. There are always options on how to get to where you want to be.”

Also working closely with HSC Students, the Prevention Early Intervention and Recovery Service (PEIRS) has ensured teens with existing moderateto-severe mental health conditions have been supported during their final schooling year.

Supervising clinical psychologist Anusha Govender, assisted by Master of Clinical Psychology students Daniel Macdonald and Lindsey Procter,

have developed and facilitated a HSC online group program.

This was in response to a surge in referrals and the need to support pre-existing mental health patients through this highly stressful time.

“PEIRS take direct referrals from WSLHD mental health services and indirect referrals from GPs, private psychiatrists and clinicians, schools, parents and self-referrals through the Mental Health Line,” Anusha said.

The referral-based HSC program ran weekly group sessions across a three week period, focusing on coping with stresses related to the HSC, sleep, diet and exercise tips and time management skills.

“Having these clients get brought into a group eliminates the feeling of isolation and like they are not alone.”

Daniel said it is important for students to be selfcompassionate and remember that it is okay to take time away from studying.

“A little bit of anxiety is good, it is healthy. The goal is never to have no anxiety because we wouldn’t get out of bed in the morning without that motivation,” the Master of Clinical Psychology student said.

“Be open about how you are coping and if you are not coping. It takes courage to tell someone. Keep your communication open, and we are all here to help.”

If you or someone you know needs help, there are support services available.

• To connect with specialist mental health services, call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.

• For crisis support, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

• For mental health advice, call Beyond Blue on 1800 512 348.

• A list of support services in Western Sydney can be found here.

In a life threatening emergency, please call triple zero (000).

Western News

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

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n 1928 William Freame was an avid historian who organised history walks to interesting places. He wrote about a very interesting walk from Doonside to St Marys commenting that Doonside was the first railway station west of Blacktown on the Great Western Line. The tour left the train at Doonside and walked directly south, the first place seen was “Hill End”, a comfortable old home belonging to the Crawford family (Robert James Crawford 1799-1848) who was one of the best of the pioneer families. Walking on to Prospect they came to St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church and Cemetery that was built by pioneers of Prospect with funds collected from 1837. In August 1838 tenders were called for the construction of the Church. The contract was won by James Atkinson of Mulgoa who was building three other churches at the same time - St Peter’s at Richmond, St Mary Magdalene at St Marys and St Thomas at Mulgoa. His contract was with the Trustees, William Lawson, Robert Crawford and Nelson Simmons Lawson. The original contract sum for the building was £1,250, half of which was by private subscription and half by the Colonial Treasury. Henry Robertson was thought to have been the architect for the building, although it is highly possible that William Lawson who was a trained surveyor was designer of the church and was buried there in June 1850. The Church was completed in 1841 in an area known for Aboriginal occupation and favourable camping locations along the Eastern and Prospect Creek catchments. The area was settled

by Europeans by 1789 and the arrival of those first settlers prompted the first organised Aboriginal resistance to the spread of settlement in that area which started a violent frontier conflict that Pemulwuy and his Bidjigal clan played a central role. The Church was added to the NSW State Heritage Register in April 1999 and in 1975 the site leased to Blacktown City Council. Walking across the paddocks William reached Bungarribee (Bung meaning the ‘creek’ and garribee meaning cockatoo).

The traditional owners of Bungarribee estate were the Warrawarry group of the Darug people. William described seeing a delightful old mansion with memories of the past, but sadly he said that it appeared doomed to ruin, but there remained sufficient old grandeur to enable him to realise the old romance that still lingered around it. He doubted that there was another old colonial home around, with a greater fragrance of lavender and old lace and if those old walls erected over 100 years ago could only speak, they would tell many a pretty story of generous festivities when scarlet coated officers made love to dainty young ladies from Parramatta and Sydney. Standing in the circular parlour (for the ballroom had disappeared), he could visualise many a bright and happy scene. All the ground floor rooms opened onto stone flagged verandas that were originally draped with trailing roses and multi-flowered creepers. On two sides was an old-world garden with carriage drives flanked by hedges and one side there was a little lawn in the middle that stood a sundial that lingered the perfume of roses and wisteria and at the rear of the little lawn the remains of the brick wall that separated the garden from the domestic quarters and the farm. In the middle was the great iron gate with its big bolt, reminiscent of the days when skilled blacksmiths were even more necessary then. He was talking about John Campbell who came free with his family on the “Lusitania” and was granted land in the area where he immediately began building a homestead suited to his status as a former officer and colonial gentleman. Between 1822-1824 he consolidated his landholdings and named the estate “Bungarribee”. John’s temporary residence was enlarged in 1825 and incorporated into his grand new home. The main portion of the house was circular with one room on the

ground floor and one above, both a full circle in shape making all windows, doors and mantelpieces curved. The difficulty of properly carrying out such accurate work with the labour available was a challenge but it was done and stood for over 100 years, a testimony to the skill involved, but the problems encountered during  Photo of William courtesy the construction of the estate were of Holroyd Council website considerable. In 1824 approximately one year after beginning work on Bungarribee he was in debt to his creditors who included Simon Levey and John Macarthur. William then left Bungarribee and continued to walk across paddocks until they reached the Western Road, where an easy walk took them to Eastern Creek, one of the oldest roadside villages in the State. Irish born Captain William Minchin was granted 1000 acres that he named Minchinbury. He was the first landowner who sailed to Australia as an Ensign of the NSW Corps on the female convict transport “Lady Shore”, the only convict ship to mutiny. After being set adrift as a castaway by the mutineers they reached Brazil and William made his way back to England where he was promptly reassigned back to NSW. He was in fact on duty as guard of Government House when William Bligh was arrested in the Rum Rebellion, but William was not prosecuted for his part in the rebellion and was given the job of taking reports of the rebellion back to England. Later he rejoined his regiment and served in Canada until he retired in 1817. When he returned as a free settler aboard the “Isabella” in 1818 William and his wife established the farm where his wife grew grapes from cuttings in a section of the farm that in later years was known for its Minchinbury Wine & vineyard. William Freame continued on to the next village of Colyton where in the coaching days it possessed four little public houses.

The last to close its doors was Wainwright’s where William remembers much the same as it was when the bullock teams pulled up in front of it.

The bar with its sanded floor and high-backed seats against the wall, and William thought travellers of 90 years ago (1838) were heavier drinkers than those of today because on average there was a pub a mile between Parramatta and Penrith and all the old roadside inns supplied good hearty meals, generally at a shilling a head and when William started his history walks some of the old-time roadside inns provided him with many a dinner. William remembered generous as to quantity but rather poor in variety being generally of cold corned beef with carrots and cabbage, pickles and roley-poley jam pudding. Both Eastern Creek and Colyton had among their earlier residents many good old colonists who were typically old-fashioned sons of the soil, honest, simple minded with all the characteristics of the British countrymen; some of them even retained their smocks. It was then onto St Marys where they caught the train home. Closely identified with the family of Governor King whose widow Anna Josepha King resided with their son Rear Admiral Phillip Parker King at his home “Dunheved”. William said that St Marys “possesses a picturesque past which in part is recalled by St Mary Magdalene, the old church and historic churchyard”. He died aged 65 in 1933.

Sources: NSW State Heritage Register, National Library of Australia, James Broadbent Historic Houses Trust of NSW, Cumberland Argus and Fruit growers Advocate, Wikipedia, trove, William Freame (History Page 25/5/2020).

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11 Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

An Amateur Tramp

WESTERN HISTORY

ENTERTAINMENT

Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

12

Western News

Untold history of Blacktown Showground wins Mayoral History Prize

T

he untold history of Blacktown Showground and Francis Park has received the top award in the 2021 Blacktown City Mayoral History Prize.

Les and Lyn Tod were awarded first place in the adult category for this year’s prize at a virtual presentation ceremony.

The Tods received the $3000 prize for their entry exploring the social and cultural history of the showground precinct.

Mayor of Blacktown City Tony Bleasdale OAM congratulated the pair on their winning entry.

“Thank you to the Tods for their research into an important part of the history of Blacktown City,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Our City has such a rich and diverse history - from the Darug people who have called this land home for more than 60,000 years, to the European settlers and to the migrants and refugees who make up the rich cultural fabric of our City.

“Our historians and our storytellers play an important role in preserving this history for us and for future generations.

“I congratulate all entrants on helping promote and preserve our City’s history. I am immensely proud of all works submitted and I am sure they will provide a valuable contribution to our shared history and heritage.”

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Cr Kathie Collins OAM and Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths with the winners of the 2021 Mayoral History Prize, Lyn and Les Tod on screen.

The Tods have been prominent entrants over the 14-year history of the prize and, between them, have taken out the top award on seven prior occasions.

Mayor Bleasdale was also delighted to see the emergence of the next generation of local historians in the high school age entries.

Frank Javadi and Adam Cruz were named the winners of the Years

7-9 and Years 10-12 categories respectively.

Entries in this year’s Prize explored topics such as the establishment of a street library in Glenwood during the COVID-19 pandemic, the life of the late Dr Russ Dickens and the history of construction in Blacktown.

In a first for the Prize, entries this year were received in video and poetry formats.

Blacktown City Council first established the Prize in 2008, with the aim of encouraging a wider understanding of the City’s history through research, documentation and promotion.

Entries may be included in Blacktown City Libraries’ local history collection for future researchers to access.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Pestered (6) 4 Chat (8) 10 Competent (9) 11 Taut (5) 12 Sea eagles (5) 13 Lawyer (9) 14 Shiver (7) 16 An Ivy League

university (4) 19 Biblical first man (4) 21 Missiles (7) 24 Denuding (9) 25 Papal court (5) 26 Increase in salary (5) 27 Disasters (9) 28 Ceding (8) 29 A citizen from Nairobi (6) down 1 Will (8) 2 Parental mothers (8) 3 Sends out (5) 5 Systematic (7)

solution 17/9/21

6 7 8 9 15 17 18 20 21 22 23 25

Corrosive in tone (9) Personal freedoms (6) Diner (6) A planting hand shovel (6) Bed cover (9) With gusto (8) Killer (8) Dampen (7) A style of sleeve (6) Fish hawk (6) Reach your destination (6) French pancake (5)

Western News

A

Self-employed – How to get into your own home?

pplying for a home loan can be tricky when you’re self-employed.

Lenders view self-employed people differently and recent lending legislation changes may affect many who are looking to get a loan.

Being an entrepreneur, your own boss or dreaming of being self-employed should not be holding you back from buying a home? Applying for a home loan when you’re self-employed can seem more difficult than it might be for a salaried person, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Many self-employed borrowers come up against the challenge of not being able to simply present payslips and tax returns to back up their loan applications. But this need not stop you buying your dream home.

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

Of course, as with any mortgage application, you must still prove that your income outstrips your spending you can service the loan. Getting this right is more than presenting a lender with a few quick sums on the back of a napkin; it can take a solid six to 12 months of preparation. Also Government Covid -19

support payments like Job keeper are not considered income and this may effect the timeline in getting a loan.

Here are some quick tips: • reduce debt: pay down credit cards and personal loans, and be sure to lower the credit limits as they are paid down, as lenders assess the total credit available to you as a potential debt level, not just the amount you owe; • cancel credit cards that you don’t need (this will affect credit scoring); • speak to a credit adviser about how the structure of your business and your taxable income will impact your ability to borrow; • do your taxes when you should, and always pay your tax assessments on time; • save: saving a deposit is obviously important, and showing your ability to live within your means while saving is too. This is key to serviceability – you want to show at least a six-month history of high income and low expenses; and • go to an MFAA Approved Credit Adviser, rather than a bank. Credit advisers have access to specialist lenders that assess applications on a case-by-case basis and tailor their products to self-employed borrowers and contractors, while bank lenders do not.

Loans to the self-employed do differ from standard

@wealthwiz

loans in a few ways, apart from the application process. Lenders offset the extra risk they are taking when lending to a self-employed borrower or contractor by charging slightly higher interest rates and placing some extra rules on loan-to-value ratios (LVR) and insurance requirements.

Generally, you can expect an interest rate for such a loan to be one to two percentage points higher than for a full-documentation loan.

Most lenders will also insist on an LVR of no more than 80 per cent – meaning that under no circumstances will they lend more than 80 per cent of the property value, as assessed by the lender.

In cases where the loan amount is for more than 60 per cent of the property’s value, some lenders also require self-employed borrowers to pay for lenders’ mortgage insurance.

At Wealthwiz, we want to help you get into your own home sooner, contact Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the loan market for self-employed borrowers.

Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional fax or financial advice.

It is designed for publication through Accredited Brokers. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. For information about whether a non-bank loan may be suitable for you, call us on 0419 600 177.

#wealthwizau

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

SPORT

Pennant seasons cancelled

By Noel Rowsell

C

Oscar Coletto

Paul Kallas

ovid-19 continues to impact on NSW Sport and as a result, two Pennant competitions which had previously been deferred, have now officially been cancelled.

Golf NSW staff and the Super Senior Committee were all confident both the Eric Apperly Shield (21 years and under) and the Super Senior Pennant (over 65’s) could still run at the end of the year but the ongoing complexity of restrictions and lock-downs has finally forced the hand of organisers of both events.

“The Committee of the Super Senior Pennant met on Friday 17th September and, in a unanimous decision, voted to cancel the 2021 Super Senior Pennant,” said captain Martin Gallagher.

“In light of the responses received from all 65 Clubs, for which we are most grateful, the Pennant received insufficient numbers of teams willing to form a viable competition for this year.

“Emails will be sent to all Clubs in the next few days informing them of this decision.

“We all look forward now to the 2022 season.

“The Super Senior Championship will be held on Monday 23rd May 2022 at Toukley Golf Club, providing Covid rules allow us to do so and we hope to see as many of you there that can make it.”

The last remaining Pennant competition still on the books for 2021 is Master Pennant (over 50’s) and Golf NSW has given itself an open-ended window for the event, which is at the playoff stage.

Once the green light is given for Master Pennant to continue, which could be in early 2022, Glenmore Heritage Valley GC (Div 2) and Springwood CC (Div 4) will be playing for their respective division titles, whilst Stonecutters Ridge GC and Twin Creeks CGC (Div 1), Windsor CC (Div 2) and Wallacia CC (Div 3) will all be playing in Relegation matches.

Action from this year’s Master Pennant match between Dunheved GC and Twin Creeks CGC. Photos by Noel Rowsell

13 Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

Alex Soncini

REAL ESTATE

Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

14

COVER STORY

Western News

Blacktown City celebrates reopening of outdoor pools with swimming star

S

wimmers young and old dusted off their cossies as pools reopened across Blacktown City after months of lockdown closures.

Outdoor swimming pools at four of Blacktown City’s leisure and aquatic centres opened their doors bright and early on Monday, 27 September after the easing of some COVID-19 restrictions.

The outdoor pools at Blacktown Aquatic Centre, Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton, Mount Druitt Swimming Centre and Riverstone Swimming Centre welcomed back swimmers under strict COVID safety plans.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the reopening of outdoor pools was a major win for residents.

“I welcome the easing of restrictions to allow our City’s residents to cool off in the pool after months spent living under strict lockdown rules,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“I watched in disappointment as Sydneysiders in areas such as Bondi were allowed to head to the beach, but people in Blacktown City were left to swelter in the heat.

“This is a fantastic day and to celebrate, Council waived the entrance fee for Monday’s opening day.”

Lap swimming and recreational swimming are permitted; however, restrictions remain in place for activities such as squad training, swim classes and aqua aerobics. Council’s indoor swimming pools also remain closed.

Mayor Bleasdale was hopeful Public Health Orders would soon allow squad training and swimming lessons to take place at outdoor pools.

Among the keen swimmers who lined up early to get back in the water was Kings Langley swimming star Timothy Hodge, who marked his first swim since returning from the 2020 Paralympic Games at Blacktown Aquatic Centre.

Timothy was a proud ambassador for Blacktown City in Tokyo and a dominant force in the pool, winning silver in the Men’s 200m Individual

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM with Kings Langley Paralympic swimming star Timothy Hodge and rising swimming star Riley Welch.

Medley (S9) and the Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay (34 points), as well as bronze in the Men’s 100m Backstroke (S9).

“To have the pools back open again and to be able to go for a swim at your local pool is a great boost for the public,” Timothy said.

“Swimming is a great form of exercise - it’s very low stress on your bones - and it’s great for people of all ages.”

In accordance with NSW Health guidelines, outdoor pools will be open to all people, both vaccinated and unvaccinated.

Patrons can only visit pools within 5 km of their home or in their Council area and must carry proof of address.

At all times when out of the water, current outdoor gathering rules will apply, i.e. a maximum

2 unvaccinated people in a group or a maximum 5 vaccinated people in a group, but masks may be removed while swimming.

Due to capacity limits, patrons are encouraged to book in advance - either online at https://bit. ly/3kClDXS, over the phone or in person at the centre.

Opening times for outdoor pools are as follows: - Blacktown Aquatic Centre: Monday to Friday 5:30 am to 7:30 pm, Saturday 6 am to 5 pm and Sunday 8 am to 5 pm - Riverstone Swimming Centre: Monday to Sunday 9 am to 6 pm - Mount Druitt Swimming Centre: Monday to Sunday 9 am to 6 pm - Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton: Monday to Sunday 9 am to 6 pm

Council help for Business and Sport

S

mall businesses, community organisations and sporting clubs in Blacktown City have been hard hit during the extended COVID-19 lockdown.

Blacktown City Council has moved to waive a number of fees and charges for these organisations in an effort to help them get through the difficult times.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “There are a number of fees and charges that shops and sporting clubs have paid in advance and now they have been left with no customers and no sporting competitions.

“It’s only fair that Council gives some relief where it can and hopefully makes it easier for them to get back on their feet when the lockdowns end,” said Mayor Bleasdale.

Council will waive the license fee for outdoor dining at restaurants and cafes as well as waiving the license fee for shops that display their goods in front of their premises.

These fees will be waived for 6 months from 1st of October 2021.

Council will also waive the fee for

reserved parking in the Colo Lane carpark in in Blacktown CBD for 3 months.

“Council’s sporting facilities have been closed since the end of June and as such there have been no organised sporting competitions since then. Clubs’ ability to generate

revenue through their canteens and sponsorship have been severely impacted by the COVID lockdown,” said Mayor Bleasdale.

Council has decided that for clubs that have paid hire fees for the winter season, Council will waive the fees for next year’s winter season.

For clubs and organisations that haven’t as yet paid this year’s winter fees, those fees will be waived.

In addition, the NSW Government has provided Council with funding of $250,000 to assist vulnerable communities during the lockdowns.

Grants of up to $10,000 are available for not-for-profit organisations to fund projects that directly support the physical health and mental wellbeing, social connection and safety of vulnerable and at-risk groups within Blacktown City.

“The not-for-profit organisations are doing a fantastic job helping those in need with food hampers, meal deliveries and counselling services.

“However, the longer the lockdown has gone on, the harder it has become for these organisations. These funds are most welcome.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Applications open on 5 October and close 5pm Friday 15 October and are only accepted online through Council’s website, www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au Lockdowns halted all winter sporting competitions.

Western News

SPORT

By Bob Turner

I

have outlined in previous editions how

the lockdown was a momentum breaker for Blacktown City FC. In fact it has been a critical factor for all semi-Pro sport and community sport. The major professional codes have kept their seasons relatively intact with the help of Queensland and WA as playing venues as well as the income derived from television contracts. The rest of sport has had to sit tight and wait for restrictions to ease.

That time is edging closer by the day as the NSW Government leads the way to open up the state and find ways to live with Covid.

Blacktown City FC comprises a full range of Junior teams with elite coaching training three times a week. The pathway culminates with the Under 20 team through to the Senior team that has performed at an elite level for 68 years. The 270 players in the club have been itching to get back on the pitch and the recent comments about a return to community sport is music to the players and coaches ears.

At the time of the lockdown Blacktown City FC was leading the competition, building crowds and momentum, and had just drawn Central Coast Mariners to play in the final 32 round of the FFA Cup. Leading the competition with 5 rounds to go, heading the goal scoring count and holding opposing teams to the fewest goals throughout the season were the result of hard work and a great team effort. To be robbed of the Championship took weeks for the Blacktown City FC team to absorb and come to grips with.

Blacktown City FC is determined to continue building its credibility on and off the pitch toward the 2022 season. Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, has not wasted any time preparing for the 2022 season. He has secured the services of the vast majority of the 2021 team to return for next season, has appointed most of the coaches for all divisions and has installed Blacktown City’s first Head of Women’s Football for Blacktown City.

Despite the frustration of the 2021 season, Mark is confident retaining most of the players will deliver a head start when the team is able to get back to a somewhat normal state. In addition, the hunger for the players to maintain the form that led them to the top of the competition table will be great.

Outlined in the last issue, the Board of Blacktown City is committed to the development of its

women’s programme to match the credibility and respect achieved by the men over its long history.

Newly appointed Head Coach for the Women’s programme, David O’Keefe, has a huge task ahead but is excited by the challenge. His history with Blacktown City and solid coaching background were key elements to his appointment by Mark Crittenden. The Blacktown City women are critical to the clubs future with a view to capitalise on the Women’s 2023 World Cup to be held in Australia to help build momentum.

A major plus for Blacktown City to quickly get the club back on track is the potential to play the next round of the FFA Cup once the lockdown is lifted.

Football Australia is hopeful the final round of 32 can be completed by the end of this year. If play is allowed BCFC will take on its planned opposition, the Central Coast Mariners, in November. That will certainly get the excitement flowing at Lily Homes Stadium and generate momentum for the 2022 season.

As Executive Chairman, I was bitterly disappointed in the cancellation of the season as the momentum built in my first year association with the club was exciting. For all at Blacktown City FC, the lockdown has been impactful on the players but just as important the inability to plan for next season, secure sponsors and build for a new season has made life difficult for all administrators.

Western News 1 October 2021 Issue 145

Let’s play football!

15

The next few weeks will determine the future of sport at all levels and fingers crossed the vaccination rates keep growing to enable us to get back on the field soon and capitalise on the many inroads built through the 2021 season.

The city of Blacktown is one of the largest LGA’s in the state and to date has no sporting team they can call their own. Blacktown City FC sees an opportunity to become synonymous with the city in name as well as respect. The goal is to earn a status so that when the population says Blacktown City they also consciously or sub-consciously mean Blacktown City FC. BCFC’s name says it all but more importantly the necessary ingredients of venue, competition status, history, coaching and a 68 year history of success on the field are in place to achieve its goal as the club works to build the biggest and best sporting organisation for Blacktown.

Blacktown has been one of the hardest hit during the pandemic but led by Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, the negative factor has also been a boost for the Blacktown community to react and bond.

Blacktown City FC will be doing all it can to help restore belief in the community and make the city of Blacktown proud of Blacktown City FC! As the slogan says – Blacktown City – ‘Always Blacktown – Never Backdown’!

Go Blacktown City!

see you in season 2022

Western News Friday, 1 October 2021

SPORT

Everything you need to know:

2021 Grand Final

B

risbane’s Suncorp Stadium will create history when it hosts the 2021 NRL Telstra Premiership grand final between Penrith and Souths - this will be the first time the title decider is held outside of Sydney in the competition’s 114th season.

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Greater Sydney, the ARL Commission has reached an agreement with the Queensland Government to host the finals series after the NSW Government confirmed it would not be able to host the grand final because of the pandemic.

The 2021 NRL grand final will be held on Sunday, October 3, kicking off at 6.30pm local time (7.30pm AEDT).

The decider will be played between the Rabbitohs and Panthers, after they won their way through with preliminary final victories over Manly and Melbourne respectively.

ARL chairman Peter V’landys said Queensland fans had long campaigned for a grand final and the Commission was delighted to reward that loyalty.

“This year we will create history, playing the grand final in Brisbane for the very first time,” he said.

“This will be an historic moment for the city and a reward for the support the Queensland community has given us throughout 2021. This year will always be remembered as the year Queensland hosted all of our major events; All Stars, Magic Round, three State of Origins and the grand final.”

Game day 12pm local AEST time (1pm AEDT): Gates open 12.15pm: Intrust Super Cup preliminary final 2.45pm: Intrust Super Cup preliminary final 4.30pm: Retiring players farewell 5.30pm: Pre-game entertainment 6.30pm (7.30pm AEDT): Panthers v Rabbitohs grand final

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