Western News 10 December 2021

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ISSUE 150

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Prepare for Summer

Summer is here so no matter what the weather is this season prepare a bushfire survival plan, don’t drive through floodwater, swim between the flags and make sure your home is fire safe. See page 9 for full story.

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

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Wings over Western Sydney

The Lockheed C130 Hercules Large Air Tanker (LAT) and Cessna Citation V (C56) thrilled residents with an impromptu air show. Photos: Noel Rowsell

By Noel Rowsell

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esidents of Western Sydney were treated to a magnificent air show of fire-fighting planes last Thursday, as the Rural Fire Service’s Cessna Citation V (C560) and Lockheed C130 Hercules Large Air Tanker (LAT) flew circuits over the District for nearly an hour.

The flight was part of preparations of aircraft and crews for the upcoming fire season, as these two aircraft and others will provide major and invaluable support to volunteer firefighters on the ground.

The Cessna performs lead plane work for water-bombing aircraft (e.g. the LAT) and can conduct line scanning and transport crews.

The Hercules can be utilised for both the initial attack on new fires,

building containment lines and urban interface protection.

The Hercules is over 30m long, has a wing span exceeding 40m, carries up to 15,450 litres of water, retardant or suppressants, has a cruising speed of 545km/h (loaded) and cruising altitude of 12,500 feet.

At this speed, the Hercules is able to reach anywhere in the state within an hour and the reloading time is approximately 10 minutes.

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ight Western Sydney councils have joined forces on a regional Western Sydney EV Roadmap which sets ambitious 2030 targets for transitioning the region to electric transport.

Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) President, Clr Barry Calvert, said “The Western Sydney EV Roadmap sets the region on a pathway to electrification by transitioning council fleets, implementing charging infrastructure, and identifying opportunities for new investment.

The Western Sydney EV Roadmap outlines the following 2030 targets: • At least 50% of council fleets transitioned to EV • 100% buses to be zero emissions • 50% of all taxis, car shares and ferries to be zero emissions.

Clr Calvert said “It is no secret that Western Sydney is highly car dependent due to a range of demographic and spatial realities. Transport makes up around one third (around 5.8m tonnes) of our region’s total emissions, with passenger vehicles accounting for half of that figure.

“There are significant gains to be achieved by a move to EV, and significant challenges if we fail to do so,” he said.

“Reducing emissions is important for Western Sydney councils. Our region is already feeling the impacts of climate change, and temperatures are rising faster in the West than other areas of the city.

“Not only will a move to EVs reduce the region’s emissions, but it will reduce impacts of pollution, create new economic opportunities, and reduce the likelihood of our communities being locked into old technologies.

“With a global transition to low emissions transport, it is important Western Sydney is ready so we can reap the benefits,” he said.

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governments to lead by example, and councils will do their utmost to ensure the infrastructure is in place for when communities and businesses make the transition,” said Clr Calvert.

The EV Roadmap is informed by an analysis of the region’s current transport emissions profile, government EV policies, the infrastructure landscape, and barriers and opportunities in the region. “The transition to EV is in line with global and national commitments to reduce emissions, particularly as many car manufacturers are phasing out petrol cars.

“Each council is currently at a different point on their EV transition

journey. The EV Roadmap will leverage the power of regional collaboration, and support each council to progress and accelerate internal goals toward zero-emission transport.

“An action plan to implement the EV Roadmap will be developed and will include projects such as regional charging plans, collective purchasing, policy implementation and new funding opportunities,” said Clr Calvert.

Eight councils were involved in the development of the Western Sydney EV Roadmap: Blacktown City Council, Blue Mountains City Council, Cumberland City Council, Fairfield City Council, Hawkesbury City Council, Lithgow City Council, Liverpool City Council and the City of Parramatta City Council.

This Roadmap has been prepared in collaboration with Evenergi (Australia’s leading zero-emission transport advisory business). The Roadmap and the Western Sydney Energy program are assisted by Ironbark Sustainability.

The EV Roadmap was developed as part of the Western Sydney Energy Program, which aims to reduce emissions and boost energy savings for a more sustainable, affordable energy future.

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

Western Sydney EV ready with release of Roadmap

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Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

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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

E

arlier this week I was having a chat with one of Greg’s relatives, Chandler, who is 17 and has just completed his HSC. He’s a highly intelligent teenager who achieved first place at his school in mathematics and did extremely well across all his other subjects.

I was struck by his super-positive attitude when he said that even though with lockdowns and home-schooling it had been the strangest two years of his life, it had also been two years of opportunity. He then showed me a poem that he carries around with him that has helped keep him focused which I think is worth sharing, if you haven’t already read it.

What ‘If’ Instead Of Being ‘Behind’ These Kids Are Ahead?

What if, instead of falling behind, our kids are advanced?

What if they have more empathy, they enjoy family connection, they can be more creative and entertain themselves, they love to read and express themselves in writing?

What if they enjoy the simple things, like their own backyards and balconies, sitting near a window in the quiet?

What if they notice the birds and the dates and different flowers emerge and the calming renewal of a gentle rain shower?

What if our kids are the ones to learn to cook, organise their space, do their laundry and help keep a well run home?

What if they learn to stretch a dollar and live with less?

What if they learn to plan shopping trips and make meals at home?

What if they learn the difference between want and need?

What if they learn the value of eating together as a family and finding the good in sharing the small delights of every day?

What if they are the ones who place great value on our teachers and educational professionals, librarians, public servants and the previously invisible essential workers like truck drivers, grocers, cashiers, healthcare workers... just to name a few who are taking care of us right now while we are sheltered in place?

What if among these children a great leader emerges, who had the benefit of a slower pace and simpler life to truly learn what really matters in life?

What if they are ahead?

By Jaime Ragsdale

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Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

Woodcroft Lake Festival and Carols a combined family fun day in 2021

The Woodcroft Lake Festival and Woodcroft Carols will be held as a combined event this year for families to celebrate the festive season.

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lacktown City Council will host a combined Woodcroft Lake Festival and Carols event this year for families to celebrate the festive season.

The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing restrictions have impacted Council’s calendar of events, with the Woodcroft Festival postponed to coincide with the annual Woodcroft Carols event.

The combined event will be held on Sunday, 19 December at Woodcroft Lake in Woodcroft, from 2pm to 8pm.

Families can look forward to an evening of activities and entertainment, including food trucks and market

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stalls, stage performances, rides and workshops, followed by carols from 6pm.

The festival will also feature Woodcroft’s Got Talent, the Woodcroft Pageant, a family pet show, a pizza eating competition, talented singers and dance troupes, the Blacktown City Community Band, and SES and fire brigade demonstrations.

This is a free event. For further details contact Woodcroft Lake Festival Committee Member Lucas Cayanan on 0430 824 440 or visit the website: w w w. b l a c k t o w n . n s w. g o v. au/Events-and-activities/2021Woodcroft-Lake-Festival-Carols

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An Immigrant’s tale of success

By Noel Rowsell

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ohn Roach was involved with a low-cost housing invention for third world countries and whilst in Rangoon, first met Norbert Saw Kulh, who was his interpreter.

Norbert was a senior government engineer and his wife Emilie was Rangoon’s chief surgeon and medical officer - both had been trained in the UK. Being devout Catholics, Norbert and Emilie experienced some discrimination from the 90% Buddhist community and were desperate to come to Australia.

“When I returned home I did some devious scheming and arranged for the family to travel to Australia just twelve months later,” said John.

“The family of 2 adults and 5 children arrived just a few days before Christmas in 1980, with their entire worldly possessions of 5 old suitcases and US$5.

“I’d fortuitously arranged for a rented house in Kingswood and a job for Norbert,” said John.

“We were also able to provide furniture, linen, toys, clothes and household stuff, all generously donated by local service clubs and friends - it was the first time the kids had ever seen toys.

“In Burma, the Kulh family were on the verge of poverty and the kids only

ever got to play with medical boxes brought home by Emilie.

“I recall on the day of their arrival, I’d arranged to have my office lady set up their dining table with sandwiches, which was also a new experience.

“The kids just looked at the sandwiches and Emilie had to explain what they were.”

John’s first port of call that day was to take Emilie to the local store and buy a 25 kg bag of rice.

A couple of days later, he recalls taking Norbert to meet Commonwealth Bank Manager David Trist in St Marys, to plead for a few dollars to give Norbert a bit of a ‘kick start’.

When David asked Norbert what security he could offer, he turned his pockets inside out and pointed at John and said “Only my Godfather.”

John said “Never will I forget David saying, Roachie would be your very last choice for security, Norbert. How about I simply trust you?

“David then handed Norbert a bank card for $2,000.00 and I reckon Norbert and Emilie went on to be David’s most faithful and forever grateful customers.”

The family settled in well in St Marys and within 12 months, the kids not only spoke fluent ‘Aussie’ but were all at the top of their classes at school.

Norbert went on to be part of the design team for the Sydney Harbour tunnel project and Emilie became a senior executive in Veterans Affairs, a position she held for more than 20 years.

“The four girls all married Aussie blokes and gained professional status, whilst Michael married an Aussie girl and has worked as a Tyre Fitter in the same place for 38 years,” said John.

“Emilie and her sister (who resides in Perth) opened a Special School in Rangoon for Destitute Girls 30 years ago and they still own and sponsor it.

“I lost physical touch with the family some 20 years ago but have always maintained regular phone contact.

“Three years ago, on hearing that Norbert was ailing, I visited them in Toongabbie.

“Four months ago, I took my wife Judy with me to Lindfield to see them, where their daughter Christine and family have been caring for them for the past three years.

“Norbert has Alzheimers, which has slowed him down considerably but he had the biggest smile for me when I gave him an overdue hug. Emilie is 90 and is as bright as a button.

“To witness the absolute love, compassion and ‘hands-on’ care the children and grandchildren show for Norbert was truly an eye opener for Judy and me and we will remember that beautiful ‘day- brightener’ for the rest of our lives.”

The vollies have returned!

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ount Druitt’s Supportive and Palliative Care Unit enthusiastically welcomed back its much-loved volunteers on 1 December after five months of suspended face-toface visits due to the most recent COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

Across western Sydney, 50 specially trained palliative care volunteers visited patients with lifelimiting illness, providing gentle hand massages, a listening ear and comfort during a difficult time to be alone.

“The volunteers bring warmth, empathy, and compassion to our patients and relieve carers from stress and anxiety when they cannot be with their loved ones,” said Kylie Clark, palliative care volunteer manager at Mount Druitt Palliative Care Unit.

“We are just so delighted to have them back.”

Westmead Hospital will slowly resume its volunteer service from the week of 6 December and Blacktown Hospital will follow in the coming weeks.

the remote service like a well-oiled machine.

“We are very proud of what’s been achieved remotely, but having the volunteers physically present again and able to engage with patients faceto-face will make a huge difference to the morale in the Unit and across western Sydney,” said Kylie.

“

I am excited to see how they will continue to enhance the quality of life of patients during this challenging time, Rebecca Borg, acting nursing unit manager, Mt Druitt Palliative Care Unit

“

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Nazira Neda Social work student, Candice Curran WSU nursing student, Pam Kalkandis palliative care occupational therapist, Ilgin Huseyin (front) volunteer, Serap Boyali (sitting) volunteer, Rebecca Borg specialist palliative care unit acting nurse unit manager, Sue Ides registered nurse, Mary Vincent (sitting) volunteer, Glenda Jones endorsed enrolled nurse, Sharon Tolentino registered nurse and Deb Duffell volunteer.

Following a welcome morning tea, the Mount Druitt volunteer’s first job back was to bring the holiday spirit by assembling and decorating the Unit’s Christmas tree.

In 2020, the volunteers developed a “check-in and chat” service to support patients from home. This service seamlessly resumed in July 2021 with clinical staff and volunteers resuming

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer for the WSLHD Palliative and Supportive Care volunteer teams, please contact Kylie Clark at kylie. clark@health.nsw.gov.au

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repare a bushfire survival plan, don’t drive through floodwater, swim between the flags and make sure your home is fire safe this summer – these are some of the summer safety tips NSW emergency service agencies have shared ahead of the 2021 season.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott recently joined emergency services leaders to issue these timely reminders ahead of people decorating their homes for Christmas and enjoying hot days by the water.

All communities are urged to follow the following five steps: Know your risk: think about the area you’re in and the types of disasters that could affect you; Plan now for what you will do: talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area or where you plan to holiday this summer; Get your home ready: prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance coverage; Be aware: find out how to prepare, what to do if there is a disaster in your area or where you intend to holiday this summer and connect with emergency services or keep on top of local news reports to stay informed.

Look out for each other: share information with your family, friends and neighbours.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said Aussie summers are iconic, but they can also be tragic.

“Over the past few years, the NSW community has been hit hard, by fire, flood and even a pandemic, but these

aren’t the only threats we face,” he said.

NSW Police Force Central Metropolitan Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter Thurtell said summer is a particularly busy time of year for police and emergency services and urged the community to put safety first.

“If you plan to consume alcohol, know your limits and do not drink and drive. The roads will be busier than we have seen for a long time, so factor in extra time and remember that police will be out on the streets, on our roads, in, on and around the water, and even in the air. If we all put safety first, our holidays will be remembered for all the right reasons,” he said.

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York said every year people risk their lives and the lives of others by driving through floodwaters.

“You wouldn’t run into a bushfire, so never drive, walk or ride through floodwater – it’s incredibly dangerous for both you and the volunteers who will need to rescue you. Secure loose outdoor items, cleaning gutters and

downpipes and trimming overhanging trees can also make a big difference when severe weather strikes,” she said.

NSW RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said this bushfire season it is important that we all understand our level of risk and prepare accordingly.

“Now is the time to review your plans, prepare your properties and have the conversation with your family about what you will do during a fire – talk about when you’ll leave, where you’ll go, what you’ll take and what you’ll do with your animals.” he said.

Fire and Rescue NSW Assistant Commissioner Paul McGuiggan said decorative lights and summer barbecues also posed a fire risk around the home.

“Make sure you have a sufficient number of working smoke alarms throughout your home that are tested regularly and are supported by a home escape plan in case of fire,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos and Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce spoke about

the importance of water safety.

“Boaters should always log on with Marine Rescue when heading out and log off when they return via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue App. It’s quick and simple and gives you the reassurance that our volunteers are watching out for your safe return,” Commissioner Tannos said.

“My message to beachgoers this summer is to only swim at patrolled beaches, stay between the red and yellow flags, always check conditions before heading out, wear a life jacket when boating or rock fishing, and be sure to keep an eye on your mates,” Mr Pearce said.

NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan warned the community about the dangers of risk taking behaviour resulting from excessive alcohol consumption and drug taking as the economy opens.

“People have every right to enjoy a drink or two and let their hair down this summer, especially after a trying time during lockdown. But be smart and considerate about it.

Make sure you stay safe and keep others safe while enjoying yourself in a responsible way, because there is nothing fun about ending your night in the back of an ambulance.” he said.

Commissioner of Resilience NSW, Shane Fitzsimmons said it was important to be aware of and prepared for emergencies that might happen in and around your home, as well as when you’re away on holidays.

“We want the people of NSW to be prepared, not scared. Our emergency service organisations do an incredible job keeping us safe, but they can only do so much.”

Saints & Signatures say thanks

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espite all the challenges over the last 2 years, the St Marys Rugby League Club’s priority and overarching vision remains unchanged. That is, “to make a significant difference to the social and economic wellbeing of our community”. We know that our community has been hurting like never before and the need for assistance has never been greater.

As a token of appreciation to those volunteers in our community that make a real difference, Saints and Signatures Catering today hosted a Christmas

Luncheon to simply say “thank you”. Those who enjoyed the festivities included volunteers and board members from PCYC, The Haven Nepean Women’s Shelter, Penrith Community Kitchen, Mama Lana’s Kitchen, Your Community Needs St Marys and Your Community Cares. When times are tough there are those amazing gems in our community who just “step up” and provide the strength and inspiration for everyone else to carry on. Saints and Signatures were proud to be able to give back to these volunteers.

Now in its second year, the concept of this event

was created by Michael Lau, the caterer for St Marys Rugby League Club. His generosity in providing the food, prizes and gifts exceeds everyone’s expectations. Together with the support from the Board of Directors of Saints, this event was again a huge success.

St Marys Rugby League Club Marketing Manager, Cathy Joy said, “It’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture sometimes, however Saints remains positive and is committed to delivering on our promise to be a community Club, always.”

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

Western Sydney communities urged to prepare for summer

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Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

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Western News

How you can help, support and respond to domestic violence victims

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pproximately one in four women in Australia have experienced violence by an intimate partner.

“Violence in any form is a violation of human rights,” said Lisa Cook, violence, abuse and neglect (VAN) educator for Western Sydney Local Health District’s Integrated Violence Prevention & Response Service (IVPRS).

The 16 Days of Activism against GenderBased Violence is an annual international campaign committed to raising awareness about the impacts of violence and to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

The campaign runs from 25 November – the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – through to 10 December – Human Rights Day – and is a timely reminder for health workers and the community alike.

“People who present to hospital after a domestic violence incident have experienced trauma and are typically overwhelmed and distressed,” said Lisa Cook.

“How health workers and the community respond can have a big impact on the person’s experience of safety and trust and what their next steps will be.”

Lisa has offered three suggestions for health workers, as well as the broader western Sydney community, to support people who might be the victims of domestic violence: 1. Listen and validate: Let the person know that you’re here to listen, believe their experience, and want to help.

2. Safety: Consider the immediate safety and needs of the person. Do they have somewhere safe to go to? Do they have children in their care? Where is the person using violence currently located? If you’re a health worker, make sure you consider your mandatory reporter requirements.

3. Support and refer: Whilst they are in your care, continue providing support to the person. You can begin by asking if they are already connected with any support services.

“Of course, where possible, find a private place to speak to patients and consider the tips,” Lisa added.

Referrals can also be made to the IVPRS Domestic Violence Counselling Service, who

provide specialist, long-term and traumainformed counselling at no cost to people from across western Sydney who have experienced domestic violence.

“Victims are also able to access the Forensic Medical Unit (FMU) at Blacktown Hospital to document domestic violence injuries and to assist with investigations and legal proceedings,” said Fernando Pisani head of department for the FMU. “The FMU is a specialised service in which the patient’s injuries can be documented and photographed, and then included as part of an Expert Certificate for Police.”

WSLHD health workers can access other resources about working with patients who are or have experienced domestic violence via the IVPRS intranet page. This is only accessible to WSLHD staff.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence, when it’s safe to do so, you can contact the following supports: NSW Domestic Violence Line, for crisis counselling, referral, or support on 1800 65 64 63 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling and support services Link2Home on 1800 152 152 who can help refer women experiencing domestic violence to crisis accommodation Child Protection Helpline – 13 21 11 Lifeline – 13 11 14 WSLHD IVPRS – 9881 8787.

If you are in immediate danger or in an emergency, always contact Triple Zero (000).

16 Days of Activism 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign, committed to raising awareness about the impacts of violence and to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

Violence in any form is a violation of human rights. The campaign ran from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women), through to 10 December (Human Rights Day). These dates were selected to represent the link between violence against women and human rights issues.

This year The Outer West Domestic Violence Network is celebrating people in Blacktown City who promote gender equity in their work, at home or in the community. Gender equity is one of the key drivers to eliminating genderbased violence and creating a safer community for everyone. 16 inspiring digital stories of local heroes promoting gender equity and in challenging gender stereotypes have been created. These 16 inspiring digital stories will be available for the community to have access on 10th December 2021 and will be showcased at The Lake Neighbourhood Centre, The Ponds on this date.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger please call 000.

If you, or someone you know, have questions about Domestic Violence you can contact the following services for more information and support: • 1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732 • NSW Domestic Violence Line - 1800 65 64 63 • WSLHD Integrated Violence Prevention & Response Service – 02 9881 8787 • WASH House – 02 9677 1962

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Eight years on from tragedy, Michelle McLaughlin’s child pedestrian safety awareness campaign has reached millions.

Now she’s set her sights on helping others going through the same unimaginable trauma.

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balmy summer evening on NSW’s Central Coast.

The day’s scorching heat still hangs in the air whilst the persistent hum of cicadas provide the soundtrack reminiscent of Australian summer. It is 5.55pm and the McLaughlin family are bundling their three young children down to the beach. By 6pm, their lives would be forever changed.

It is almost eight years since this lifechanging night on January 6 in 2014 when four year old Tom McLaughlin, bubbling with excitement to ride his new surfboard, and in an unfamiliar environment, stepped unexpectedly from the grassy verge and into the path of an oncoming 4WD. Road trauma is still the most common cause of death for Australian children, having taken the lives of 430 innocent children just like Tom since 2014.

Since 2014, Tom’s mother Michelle McLaughlin, Founder and CEO of Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation, has been on a mission to change this tragic statistic. She has facilitated the installation of signs in 63 Local Government Areas around Australia, reminding millions of holidaymakers and locals to hold their child’s hand, and slow down.

Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation champions pedestrian road safety for children, educating the wider community around how to keep children safe around roads.

Recalling the paralysing early days following Tom’s passing, Michelle is now looking to expand the remit of the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation to support grieving families in that particularly difficult first year.

Michelle is establishing special Road Trauma Grief Support Packages for families who suffer the unimaginable tragedy of losing a child to road trauma.

She is calling on corporate sponsors and philanthropists to help Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation raise $150,000 to fund the 12-month long care packages, each containing vouchers for child care, cleaning, domestic, and cooking services - filling a gap felt firsthand by Michelle.

“The first year after Tom’s death was the most difficult,” says Michelle. “I just couldn’t function. You are relying

on extended family and friends to help with the day-to-day of keeping the household going - but not everybody has such support.”

The death of a child is considered the worst stressor a person can go through.

Studies have found that bereaved parents, particularly mothers, are at an increased risk of depression, anxiety, PTSD, C-PTSD (Complex PTSD), suicide, panic disorders, substance abuse, immune and cardiovascular disease as well as cancers.

“My hope with launching the Road Trauma Grief Service Packages is to make walking that first year even a tiny bit easier for affected families, better supporting this extremely vulnerable group.”

As the holiday season approaches, Australia’s regional towns are expected to be busier than ever, increasing the likelihood of road crashes. Michelle is giving a timely reminder about pedestrian safety and calling on Local Government Areas across the country to install critical safety signage in areas of high pedestrian activity.

Michelle says, “My message to caregivers is simple - always talk to your children about road safety, hold their hands until they are 10, and be particularly vigilant when you are on holiday or in new environments.

“My message to Local Government Areas is also simple - if you are not already participating in the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation’s child pedestrian safety campaigns, I urge you to consider doing so. The fatality and serious injury statistics speak for themselves. Working together can only make our communities safer for our most precious road users - children - particularly around areas of high pedestrian and vehicular activity.”

Emeritus Professor Ann Williamson, of the UNSW Sydney’s Transport and Road Safety Research Group, is in agreement.

“Both drivers and local councils need to be on high alert for the safety of young pedestrians. We are coming up to a busy time of year, and an awareness campaign like that of Little Blue Dinosaur is so important. We know from our research that child pedestrians can move unpredictably and their smaller size makes them harder for drivers to see. We can do more to ensure that we keep child pedestrians safe,” says Ann Williamson.

Key Information: • Speed matters - in a crash between a car and an adult pedestrian, there is a 10% risk that a pedestrian will be killed at 30 km/h, 40% risk at 40km/h, and a 90% risk at 50km/h. The risk of death or serious injury is higher for children, even at very low speeds.

• In general, children find it harder to judge the direction of sounds, the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles. They are still learning and developing the abilities required to identify safe crossings and anticipate driver behaviour.

• Children under 10 need to hold an adult’s hand when near a busy road - it is as important as putting on a seatbelt.

• Children over 10 need to be reminded about the importance of being attentive near roads.

• Drivers need to slow down around busy areas and be extra vigilant when parking and/or crossing driveways.

For more information on The Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation, or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit www.littlebluedinosaur.org.

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

Bereaved mum on a mission to save lives and help others this holiday season

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Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

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WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

A Cricketing Legend

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

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illiam “Bill” Peter Howell Australian Eleven and Bill, the gathering was born in Penrith in broke up. Afterwards, it was decided to December 1869 to George & keep the donations open to allow those Hannah Howell (Colless). Bill’s father people who had not already subscribed George was born at Castlereagh in to have a chance to do so. Enough money 1838. His mother Hannah was born at was collected to add a gold chain for Castlereagh in 1846. While overseas in the watch. The Cricket oval at Penrith 1902, Bill’s parents died within days of Stadium was named after Bill in 1957. each other. They owned two farms valued He played in 18 Test matches until 1904. at £1,165. Bill’s mother had been ill for William Peter Howell became renowned a long time and died at her residence as one of Australia’s most eminent test from acute bronchitis and heart disease bowlers despite having to play for most of and his father died four days later from his career in the same side as that bowling shock following an attack of influenza. genius Hugh Trumble. (ED: Hugh In January 1898 Bill played in his first Trumble was an Australian cricketer who test match against England at Adelaide captained the Australian team in two Tests Oval and later made two trips to England winning both). On Australian wickets, in 1899 and 1902 and South Africa Bill, the strongly built farm “lad” with one  Photo courtesy of Ancestry shows the Australian Cricket Team also in 1902. In August 1898 a meeting of the biggest of handlebar moustaches of 1902 with Bill at the back row/2nd of the right. was convened of local cricketers at the used a skillful variation of flight and pace Commercial Hotel in Penrith and as a result the Nepean District Cricket to deceive opposition batsmen into an act of self-destruction. In England Association was formed. Its competition trophy was the Lees Shield his ability to impart massive spin on the ball enabled him to beat the bat presented by Local Member Samuel Lees which was to become the consistently with turn. Quicker than Trumble his main weapon was a property of the first club to win it three times. That honour went to the devastating off-break, but Bill also used a quick-turning leg-break as a Castlereagh Club. In March 1899 news arrived in Penrith stating that variation. But the highlight of the Australian tour was the devastating offBill had been selected to go to England with the Tenth Australian Eleven. spin bowling of Bill. Left out of the first match because he was thought The general opinion amongst local cricketers and enthusiasts was that to be out of form, Bill played in the next five and took 48 wickets at a some kind of a send-off should be tendered to “our champion” but it cost of just over nine runs each. A farmer and a man with huge hands, wasn’t until Messrs H Judges, H R Price and A Colless met and later Bill was noted for the amount of work he got on the ball. In South Africa discussed the matter. They decided they would ask Bill if he could come he was almost unplayable. Deliveries turning viciously from outside the to Penrith to give his friends an opportunity of bidding him bon voyage, off stump sometimes had the effect of making the shaken batsman turn but Bill only had a week’s notice to prepare for the voyage and found it his head, first over one shoulder, then the other, wondering what had entirely impossible as he was leaving Penrith and not coming back until happened to the ball. After his retirement from international cricket, his return from the “old country”. So, they decided to call on the local Bill returned to one farm at Castlereagh while his brother Athol took up cricketing fraternity and players and asked for donations to purchase the adjoining farm. In March 1899 Bill married Neva Stella Frederica some small momenta for Bill and collected about £8 and decided to Hunter in Sydney. She was the daughter of James and Sarah Hunter of purchase a gold watch through a local firm and had the inscription added Emu Plains. In June 1903 Bill went shooting with his brother-in-law at engraved as follows: “Presented to W P Howell a member of the Tenth Castlereagh. They were accompanied by dogs and had shot a number Australian Eleven on the eve of his departure by his cricketing friends of quail and another bird took flight and his brother-in-law followed it of the Nepean District N.S.W. 7-3-1899.” They made the presentation to around and fired not knowing that Bill was in the line of fire and his Bill at the Sydney cricket ground shortly before he left for England and thigh received part of the charge with his flesh being cut and grazed. saying that Bill had by his true sportsmanlike character and manliness, He was promptly driven to Penrith where the wound was dressed and had won for himself the esteem of his fellows and made him a worthy Bill later recovered. Bill was world renowned as a cricketer, idolised in member of any Australian team and they were sure that Bill would bring his own community and loved as a companionable friend to a lot of the back with him as honourable record as he took away. It was also said that citizens. He died at his residence at Castlereagh in July 1940 at the age some years back, the old veteran Edwin (Ted) Evans (ED: Born in Emu of 70 years. He took a bad turn and never recovered, but it was said that Plains and an Australian cricketer who played in six Tests between 1881 his closing hours were peaceful and painless as befitting someone who and 1886) had been “unearthed” in the Nepean District, and now “Billy” was a cheerful and sincere friend to all who knew him. Bill was buried has been brought forward to keep up the high reputation the district had at Rookwood Memorial Gardens and Crematorium. Photo courtesy of gained in the cricket world. “Billy” briefly responded and said he did not Ancestry shows the Australian Cricket Team of 1902 with Bill at the deserve half the nice things that had been said about him and he wished back row/2nd of the right. to heartily thank all his well-wishers of the Nepean and hoped to bring Sources: Sunday Times, Wikipedia-Australia v England 1897-98, back with him a favourable record. After cheers had been given for the Ancestry family information, Nepean Times, Trove, BDM NSW Website.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Winner of the 2021 Blacktown City Arts Prize Yvette Tziallas with stunning artwork ‘Lacrimo’.

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lacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, has hailed the 2021 Blacktown City Art Prize as one of the best regional art competitions and exhibitions in Australia.

“The artworks that made it through to the final judging were of incredibly high standard and showcased the talents of artists from all over Australia, but I’m proud to say that many of those were from Western Sydney.

“It was my privilege to announce that the 2021 Blacktown City Art Prize went to Yvette Tziallas for her stunning artwork Lacrimo.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The incredibly detailed piece, created with pen, ink and liquid acrylic on birch plywood impressed the judges and was chosen from 107 finalists to take out the top prize.

Hailing from the Southern Highlands, Yvette Tziallas has been a finalist in the prestigious regional art prize for the past three years and was overjoyed to be crowned the winner this year.

Her artwork tells the deeply personal story of her struggles with infertility and conceiving a child and is inspired by biology and the female reproductive system.

Yvette said taking out the prize was an enormous honour and would be “life changing”.

“I was born with a lot of complicated health

The winning artwork of the 2021 Blacktown City Aboriginal Artist Prize ‘Are You Listening Now?’ by artist Leanne Tobin.

issues and one of those has meant that I can’t conceive or carry a pregnancy, so I have struggled with infertility for a long time,” she said.

“This piece was created through a bit of a darker time when I was researching surrogacy and coming to terms with infertility and all the options that are out there.

“Creating Lacrimo, which means to ‘weep’ or ‘shed tears’, was a therapeutic process involving intricate detail,” Yvette said.

Her winning piece comes with a prize of $15,000 and Lacrimo will be acquired for the Blacktown City Art Collection.

The winner of the Aboriginal Artist Prize is wellknown Darug artist Leanne Tobin for her artwork Are You Listening Now? The artwork contains layers of symbolism and explores connection to the Country, through the theme of renewal and healing.

Ms Tobin was thrilled to be chosen by the judges, who commented that her work expressed a strong message about the owners and caretakers of Country and how they have prevailed over time.

Leanne’s great, great, great grandmother was Maria Lock, the daughter of respected Darug elder Yarramundi and one of the first Aboriginal women to become a land owner, gaining back a small part of her traditional country.

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

Infertility struggle inspires winning work in 2021 Blacktown City Art Prize

Winner of the 2021 Blacktown City Local Artist Prize Renee Lim with her self-portrait ‘The Other’.

The winner of the Local Artist Prize is local artist Renee Lim with her artwork The Other.

Renee, a student at the University of Sydney, explores themes of light and dark and personal growth, created during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s my first time entering an art contest and to win an award is just amazing. I was ecstatic about being exhibited and had no expectations about winning,” Renee said.

Highly Commended artists in this year’s Prize include: Belinda Sims, The Sentinels Hyun Hee Lee, Remembering Peter Rush, The cadence and rhythm of Delhi Maddison Gibbs, River Matriarch Holly Oakley, 11am Covid Update The 2021 Blacktown City Art Prize exhibition is now on show in part at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, Max Webber Library (Blacktown), Dennis Johnson Library (Stanhope Gardens) and Our Library @ The Mount Druitt Hub until Thursday, 27 January, 2022.

The exhibition consists of 107 artworks spread throughout the 4 centres, ranging from painting and drawing to sculpture, ceramics and mixed media.

Now in its 26th year, the prize is open to artists living across Australia and provides an opportunity to share, develop and enrich artistic practice.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Candlefish (9) 6 Diaphanous (5) 9 Long-lasting (7) 10 Writers (7) 11 Propriety (7) 12 Against (7) 13 Assortment (9) 15 A group of south

Pacific islands (5) 16 What a bee does (5) 19 Grape plantations (9) 22 Parochial (7) 23 In a rude or unrefined

manner (7) 25 Diabetics inject this (7) 26 Dominance (7)

27 A piece of armor to

protect thighs (5) 28 Villains (9) down 1 Aligned oneself with (5) 2 Russian beet soup (7) 3 Trade stoppage (7) 4 Small intestine (5) 5 One who studies the

past (9) 6 Chevrons (7) 7 Embrace (archaic) (7) 8 Repeat payments to

performers (9) 13 One who expects the

worst (9)

solution 26/11/21

14 17 18

20 21

23 24

Awe (9) Asserts (7) A region in northern Israel (7) Desired strongly (7) Hold back for future use (7) Desert “trees” (5) Screams (5)

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

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Western News

Top money saving tips for this Christmas

ecember is a time when shoppers are tempted to stack purchases on the credit card, with the pressure to buy that special gift for loved ones, as Australians will spend over $40 billion dollars in retail stores and online this Christmas. The festive season could be less of a financial burden if you plan and follow some simple rules, prior to the feared credit card bill arriving in January so your Christmas was a merry one.

Here are tips to save this Christmas* Plan Plan what gifts you are giving to avoid the “late dash” when you visit the shops. Start early with your shopping to avoid the last minute rush, as this generally means you will be paying more at the counter than what you had planned, as you are under pressure to buy whatever you can get your hands on.

The Christmas Card Why not use technology and save money on Christmas cards and make a Christmas Video.

Smart phones and similar devices allow for easy videoing that can be sent via instant messaging or email to friends and family at no cost.

Shop online You don’t have to visit the shops as many major retail stores have online presence and stores. This

will save you time and purchasing gifts you didn’t really want. Be aware there may be delivery issues so don’t leave your shopping to the last minute to avoid disappointment.

Shop Around Compare items and products on the internet and/ or in catalogues. You can use google by entering the name of what you are buying followed by the word “buy, price”. This will give you a list of retailers with price comparisons to hook yourself a bargain.

End of Year Sale time Spend less before Christmas Day and give a small gift and buy better gifts in the new-year sales.

Alternatively give a gift card as this allows buying gifts after Christmas when the sales are on where you can get more value for your dollars.

Secret Santa Everybody loves a secret Santa and it’s a great way to save money on gifts as it means one quality gift as opposed to many gifts for the family.

Give an experience Everyone has someone in the family who has everything and doesn’t need anything. Why not organise something different, a picnic, a day at the beach and invite family and friends to them.

A present doesn’t always need money to make it valuable

@wealthwiz

Cook Even if you’re not the next Jamie Oliver or Nigella Lawson, you could cook a great gift! A Christmas pudding or treats are not only a Christmas favourite but will help the recipient when it comes to filling the table. You will save money with a little investment of your time.

Cash is King Covid has restricted cash handling and it may be tough if you have planned your gifts in advance or buying online but there is no reason why you can’t leave your credit card at home and use cash to negotiate a better deal and manage your spending.

A little bit of discipline may avoid the credit card shock in January.

Share the load If Christmas is at your place this year, ask family members to bring a plate to help reduce the load and cost of Christmas lunch or dinner. Ask everyone to bring a plate to create a buffet style meal.

Christmas brings family and friends together and I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful festive season to create some special memories.

Contact Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the loan market to find a loan solution that best meet your needs.

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It’s time to be on the lookout for snakes and spiders in Western Sydney

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ith summer well and truly on the way, NSW Health is once again warning communities to be on the lookout for the slithery serpents and eight-legged critters.

According to figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, people in NSW are among those most likely to be bitten by snakes and spiders when out and about.

Genevieve Adamo, Senior Poisons Specialist at the Poisons Information Centre said Australia has some of the most venomous critters in the world, from the brown snake to the funnelweb spider.

With the recent mouse plague and the wet and humid weather, wildlife experts have predicted an increase in the numbers of both venomous snakes and spiders.

NSW Health urges people to remember the following advice if they get bitten: Snake bites: Seek immediate medical attention, even for a suspected bite. If someone has collapsed following a snake bite start CPR immediately, this can be lifesaving.

If someone is bitten you should keep them still, call an ambulance and apply a pressure immobilisation bandage. Tight tourniquets should not be applied, and the bite site should not be washed, cut or sucked. Symptoms from a venomous bite can include nausea, vomiting and

a headache, however, first aid should be applied regardless of whether these symptoms are present.

Spider bites: Most spider bites are harmless.

However, if a person has been bitten by a big black spider or funnel web, it is a medical emergency. If someone is bitten you should keep them still, call an ambulance and apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, with a further bandage to the entire limb. A bite from a funnel-web can cause severe pain, sweating, vomiting, difficulty breathing

and muscle twitching. A redback spider bite may result in pain and redness, but it is not considered life-threatening so does not require bandaging.

“Snake season usually peaks in late December and January but we have already seen an increase in snake bites from this time last year,” said Ms Adamo.

“The most important thing to know in a situation like this is how to perform the correct first aid. This can make a significant difference to treatment and outcomes.”

“

Thankfully (we have) plenty of antivenom available to treat any bites. While bites from these types of creatures are rare, it’s important to know what to do and act quickly, as it could just save your life or the life of a friend or loved one.

- Genevieve Adamo, Senior Poisons Specialist at the Poisons Information Centre

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Western News

SPORT

By Bob Turner

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little over a month ago, Blacktown City FC took back full operational control of its home playing venue for the first time since 1979. The stadium is a critical ingredient in the long term infrastructure plans of the new Blacktown City FC Board. Full control creates opportunities for the football community and a financial base for Blacktown City FC to be a selfsufficient sporting organisation. Most sports rely primarily on sponsors to fund the operation of their business but Blacktown City can now extend their business model to include training, games, tournaments, field hire and all serviced by a licensed café on site.

This activity compliments the growing number of sponsors climbing on board the journey that is Blacktown City FC. The end goal of the Blacktown Board is to create a 5,000 seat niche Football Stadium for both Blacktown City and the city of Blacktown. Two of the main priorities of the Blacktown Council are to become recognised as a sporting city and a Council that provides world class sporting facilities. The building of the ICTE (International Centre of Training Excellence) in the Blacktown International Sports Park is testament to that commitment by the Council. NO matter what the sport - fields, indoor and outdoor courts and recreational parks are in full use throughout the Blacktown LGA. Blacktown City Sports Centre is a unique sporting property that Blacktown City intends to maximise as a sports destination centre.

This directive of the Council is what led the Blacktown Board to rename its home ground – Blacktown City Sports Centre! The artificial turf and ability to dissect the main pitch into eight Five -A-Side fields creates opportunities for mass use while also providing a vehicle for a multiple of sports. The artificial turf means access seven days a week no matter what the weather.

A case in point two weeks ago was the transfer of a round of the African

Cup of Nations tournament from the Wanderers fields at BISP to Blacktown City Sports Centre (BCSC) due to the wet ground prohibiting play. This weekend the Centre will also host a round of the Multicultural Community Football Tournament.

The Sports Centre will undergo a full facelift in preparation for the opening NPL games of the Senior Men and Women in late February of 2022. In the meantime, the Centre is in use seven days a week with Tournaments, various Academies who have used the facility for a number of years, and a Five-A-Side competition on week nights. A growing demand is the general hire of the facility, especially with all the wet Weather Sydney has been experiencing. Calls are coming in for an eighth of a pitch for one hour, to a quarter pitch for seven-a-side to half a pitch for general use. For further information go to inquiries@ blacktowncitysportscentre.com.au

Blacktown City has plans to extend use of the Stadium to include fitness training, birthday parties, social competitions and access for family and friends. A unique feature of the stadium is the fully licenced café that can cater for all functions and activities. From coffee to cakes, pies, milk shakes, slushies and beer, the café

Western News 10 December 2021 Issue 150

Blacktown City Sports Centre – Open For Business

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is currently undergoing a makeover to be fully operational by game time next year.

The main profile of the Centre will come from the Blacktown City FC Men and Women. The women’s team commences in NPL 2 next February while the men are scheduled to host Apia on the 6th of March in the NSW Men’s NPL 1 competition. 2021 was building solid momentum with the Men leading the competition by 10 points with 5 rounds to go before the season was cancelled due to the lockdown. Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, has resigned the majority of the 2021 team that is more determined than ever to ensure the 2022 season brings the title they were heading to achieve.

The players will take heart at being so dominant this season and will take that confidence into the next season.

Go Blacktown City!

see you in season 2022

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 10 December 2021

Carruthers conquers Concord during outstanding year

By Noel Rowsell

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o u n g Jordan Springs golf tyro Coby Carruthers is nearing the end of an extraordinary year of golf, with his most recent achievement to break the course record at Concord GC last Saturday, surging through the field to finish Runner-up in the Club Championships.

Coby held memberships in three clubs this year, being Leonay, Dunheved and more recently Concord, with his plan to continue with the Dunheved and Concord memberships in 2022.

Coby is making every post a winner in his ever-improving junior career, with his resume of successes this year including Leonay GC Club Champion, Concord GC Junior Club Champion, Concord GC Runnerup Club Champion, along with playing in the Dunheved GC Division 3 Major Pennant squad, which won the Division title and promotion to Division 2 for 2022.

Coby Carruthers is presented with the WSAS Golf Athlete of the Year award by Stuart Ayres MP. Photo supplied.

Add to those results other career successes including Junior Club Championship victories in both 2019 and 2020, Runner-up in both the Men’s Club Championships and Foursomes Championships in 2020, winner of the Don Watson Handicap Match Play in 2019 and Runner-up in 2017 (all at Leonay), along with victories in the past three years in the annual Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation (JNJG) North vs South Cup. Coby is currently playing in the Dunheved GC Club Championships and despite being slightly off the pace after Saturday’s first round (played after his record-breaking round at Concord earlier that day), is nevertheless still in the hunt with 3 rounds to play.

Coby is also playing in this week’s 2021 NSW Junior Championships (6th-9th December) at Lynwood CC and will be hoping to take his recent good form into the Junior event.

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