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Friday, 10 July 2020

ISSUE 113

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Training Day Over the past six years through The Petbarn Foundation’s Seeing eye Dogs Appeal, $3.2 million has been raised, enabling 70 Seeing eye Dogs to be bred and trained. See page 17 for full story.

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

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Acknowledging academic excellence

iomedical research, secondary school education, physiotherapy, community policy creation, paramedicine, and early childhood education, are just some of the areas of study covered by the Blacktown City Council 2020 Tertiary Scholarship Awards. Council has awarded $1,500 scholarships to 12 students who live in Blacktown City and have completed at least one year of study at a recognised tertiary institution. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Blacktown is a city that celebrates diversity and acknowledges the talent and achievements of our students. “I am immensely proud to see the richness of our City reflected in the age, achievements, backgrounds and study choices of our scholarship recipients. “The diversity of courses undertaken by the recipients will ensure the future of the Blacktown Community will be well supported and equipped to cover a wide range of employment needs and opportunities in our rapidly developing economy.” The Anne Aquilina Scholarship for 2020, was awarded to Atharva Patil from Blacktown, who is enrolled at Western Sydney University studying physiotherapy. The scholarship is named in honour of Anne Aquilina, the popular Blacktown physiotherapist and academic and late wife of the first Mayor of Blacktown City Council, Hon. John Aquilina, and specifically assists students of physiotherapy,

Blacktown City Council Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM and the recipient of the Anne Aquilina Scholarship, Atharva Patil.

sports medicine or health sciences. Atharva has a passion for cricket and hopes to support the sporting community through providing much needed physiotherapy. “I want to support athletes in their career and ensure they can achieve their dreams of playing professionally”, Atharva affirmed. Mayor Bleasdale said, “Within a few years, Atharva could be working as a physiotherapist at our $100 million International Centre of Training Excellence at the Blacktown International Sportspark.” Lisa Lewis from Marayong, is studying for a Masters of Social Science degree at Western Sydney University and hopes to work in research and policy in the community sector. Lainey Field from Minchinbury, is undertaking a Science degree at the University of Technology Sydney, and aspires to work in a laboratory

environment in either the food or pharmaceutical industry. Rachael King from Mount Druitt is studying for a double degree in Science and Education at UNSW Sydney and said she was inspired mentoring younger students in mathematics while at high school and would like to pursue a career in secondary education. Mayor Bleasdale said, “Currently up to 18, 000 students travel outside Blacktown City to attend university but from next year students will be able to study at the Australian Catholic University campus in the centre of the Blacktown CBD.” The scholarships were awarded on the advice of Council’s independent Tertiary Scholarship Committee consisting of Dr Bill Palmer, senior lecturer, School of Mathematics and Statistics, Sydney University; Neville Webber, Emeritus Professor, School of Mathematics and Statistics, Sydney

University, and retired teacher, Mrs Anne-Marie Kestle. Blacktown City Council 2020 Tertiary Scholarship Awards. • Atharva Patil, Blacktown, Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Western Sydney University, awarded the Anne Aquilina Scholarship • Alison Oon, Quakers Hill, Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, TAFE • Ashleigh Grech, Glenwood, Bachelor of Health Science at Western Sydney University • Bernadette Pudadera, Blacktown, Bachelor of Materials Science & Masters of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney • Hadassa Gitau, Quakers Hills, Bachelor of Music, University of Sydney • Jessica Szakacs, Glendenning, Bachelor of Business, Western Sydney University • Lainey Field, Minchinbury, Bachelor of Science, University of Technology Sydney • Lisa Lewis, Marayong, Masters of Social Science, Western Sydney University • Nazanin Sharifi, Doonside, Bachelor of Law & Bachelor of Arts, University of Sydney • Nicholas Shelley, Doonside, Graduate Diploma of Urban & Regional Planning, University of New England • Rachael King, Mount Druitt, Bachelor of Science & Bachelor of Education, Macquarie University. • Sophie Smith, Quakers Hill, Bachelor of Medical Science, University of Sydney.

Three new police recruits join Quakers Hill police area command

n a boost for the safety and security of our local community three brand new police officers started on the beat from Riverstone police station after a private attestation ceremony in Goulburn last week for Class 341. Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly MP joined new Quakers Hill Superintendent Donna McCarthy to congratulate the three new probationary constables who started their first day of duty at Riverstone Police Station during their induction, after undergoing more than eight months of training at the Police Academy in Goulburn. “Our community is in safer hands with more officers joining the ranks today,” Mr Conolly said. “I welcome Probationary Constables Luke Burdekin, Bailey Rowe and Jared Chaplin and thank them for taking on this significant responsibility.

“I am proud to welcome these three young men and wish them every success in their policing careers. Being sworn in as a police officer is a great honour and I commend these new recruits for making the brave decision to put the community’s safety ahead of their own.” Mr Conolly said. Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the brave men and women of Class 341, have completed their training during extraordinary times. “These recruits join the strong police family of more than 17,000 officers at a significant time as the state continues to face a global pandemic,” Mr Elliott said. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mick Fuller welcomed the 159 new recruits into the policing family. The NSW Liberals & Nationals are investing $583 million in 1500 extra officers over the next four years, the biggest increase in three decades.

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other Ingrid Benedek is the first in Western Sydney to welcome a baby girl into the world as part of the Publicly Funded Homebirth Service (PFHS) provided through Westmead Hospital. The North Rocks mother experienced a midwifery-supported home birth and a healthy baby girl named Arkadia was born at 11.58pm on Tuesday. Mum and baby are doing well. The choice for a home birth is an extension to the existing Midwifery Caseload Practice service currently offered at Westmead Hospital, which provides one-on-one support with a midwife throughout a woman’s pregnancy, birth, and early postnatal period. Ingrid said her home birth experience was relaxing, in comparison to the delivery of her previous two children. “When you’re in your own home, everything is personalised,” Ingrid said. “I had my music on, lit some candles and dimmed the lights. “I felt very safe and supported knowing my caseload midwife was with me too. “Being able to sleep in my own bed, have a shower in my own shower and put on my own clothes straight after the birth made me and bub settle in so nicely.” Westmead Hospital’s Women’s and Newborn Health Operations Director Donna Garland said that many families will greatly benefit from the home birth program.

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

Westmead Hospital midwife delivers healthy baby girl in Western Sydney’s first planned home birth

Proud parents Ingrid and Karl with baby Arkadia who was delivered in their North Rocks home.

“Women residing in Western Sydney Local Health District are already asking to birth at home,” Donna said. “This is a great way for women to have a safe, professionally-monitored, home birth experience. “Having a home birth allows women to be in a familiar place of comfort and control, surrounded and supported by loved ones.” To be eligible for the PFHS, women must be healthy, in a low risk pregnancy, live in Western Sydney and enrolled into Westmead Hospital’s

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

Midwifery Caseload Practice Service. The program is filling up fast so enquires are essential. Access to the service is free. Other hospitals in NSW where publicly funded home births are available (as of 2019) are the Royal Hospital for Women, Wollongong, John Hunter and Byron Central. For more information on the Midwifery Caseload Practice Service and Westmead Hospital’s home birth service, go to www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ wnh/home/home

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Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Sports Journalist: Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 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 all cheered the apparent end of the spread, now we are tentatively walking across melting ice, hoping that it is not about to crack with what’s going on down in Vic. Let’s just hope not too many buses zoomed through before Gladys decided to get on board and take over the driving and close the border. It seems to me that the biggest threat to the continued spread of the virus is the conspiracy theorists. No matter how much fact they are presented with, they continue on blindly consumed with their belief, like some dazed zombie stuck in a cult. Do these people really believe just about every country in the world is taking part in playing a joke on them? And if so, what’s the punchline? The CT’s mission is often to downplay. “Oh it’s no worse than the flu,” is the most common mantra. When was the last time 19 residents of an aged care home died within days of each other? Or 22 people died within weeks of disembarking the same cruise ship? It is absolutely ludicrous to liken this virus to the flu. And dangerous. We need the conspiracy theorists, the minimisers and the downright selfish to pull their heads in and work with the rest of the country to flatten this thing. Stop scoffing at the rules, spitting at people, refusing tests and save your protests for a time when you aren’t endangering other people’s lives. Its not that hard is it? We have a ringside seat to watch what is happening across the world and make sure we don’t make the same mistakes. Countries whose leaders minimise the severity of the virus, see how they are fairing? Our non-believer’s name is Donald. Clearly he doesn’t want it to be a thing, so he keeps saying its not. How is that working out for him? 133,000 dead and climbing, that’s how. If careless and dismissive behaviour results in a spike here, the stakes are extremely high. Lockdowns. Business closures. Bankruptcy. Economic Depression. And most importantly, serious illness and death. Younger people, although at lesser risk of getting seriously ill, need to take one for team Australia and ensure they aren’t doing anything that risks spreading to our older more vulnerable people. Our collective mentality in this country has never been ‘survival of the fittest.’ Lets not start that now. Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

It’s back – Blacktown City’s Fish In!

or 2 weekends in August, Mount Druitt Swimming Centre pool will be teeming with succulent fish just waiting to be caught at the annual Blacktown Fish In. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the popular event is an opportunity for fishers of all skill levels to try their hand at landing a trout. “People have been coming to the pool to fish for over 28 years – it’s a really unique idea that has hooked people from all over Sydney,” Mayor Bleasdale said. Held over the weekends of 7th–and8th and 14th-and-15th August, 600 trout will be fair game for all of those fishing enthusiasts wanting to try their luck at casting a line. The trout will be brought from the mountain waters of Sandy Waterfall Creek, on the Goobarragandra River just outside of Tumut. “This is a much-anticipated event and I recommend you register as soon as possible before all sessions sell out,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

A ‘fishing station’ ticket costs $15 and, due to current COVID-19 restrictions, only ticket holders will be permitted - no spectators allowed. It will be strictly only 1 person per station and bring your own fishing gear. Strict rules apply to gear and the number of fish caught. Tickets will be available from 8.00am Tuesday 7th July, 2020. For more information and to book a session please visit: www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Events-andactivities/2020-Blacktown-CityFamily-Fish-In This event is held under a permit from the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

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Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

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New school at Marsden Park given tick of approval

new state-of-the-art public school in Sydney’s north west is one step closer, with the NSW Government recently approving the final plans for the new primary school at Marsden Park (west). Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said the school, to be located on Northbourne Drive, will provide high-quality learning spaces for generations to come. “This new school is wonderful news for our growing community and, once complete, will provide places for 1,000 students from Kindergarten to Year 6,” Mr Conolly said. “The school will not only provide new and improved education infrastructure, but will also inject $48 million investment into our local area and create 227 jobs during construction.” Construction will soon begin on the new school, which will include innovative new flexible learning spaces, a hall, library, covered outdoor learning area, staff and administration

facilities, enhanced open spaces, games court and a sporting field. Enrolments are being taken for the 2021 school year and will be accommodated in a “pop-up” school while the permanent school buildings are constructed. Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said the new public school at Marsden Park (west) illustrates the

NSW Government’s commitment to invest in new and improved learning environments right across the State. “We are investing an unprecedented $6.7 billion in education over the next four years to ensure NSW students are best-equipped to take on the future,” Mrs Mitchell said. Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the school at Marsden Park West is one of nine major

education projects determined in the past two months through the NSW Government’s new Planning System Acceleration Program. “Combined, these projects will not only deliver new and upgraded learning environments for more than 9,000 students in NSW, they will also create opportunities for 5,650 new jobs during construction,” Mr Stokes said. Marsden Park (west) is one of three schools which are the latest projects to be determined through the Planning System Acceleration Program that is fast-tracking planning assessments to keep people in jobs and the economy moving during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has created opportunities for more than 23,000 direct jobs and almost $13 billion worth of economic investment across NSW. For more info: www. schoolinfrastructure.nsw.gov.au/ projects/m/marsden-park-newprimary-school.html#library-tab

Western Sydney joins forces with universities to quash COVID-19

edical students have been trained to investigate COVID-19 outbreaks with an intensive workshop provided by Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD), the University of Notre Dame Australia and Western Sydney University. As the number of COVID-19 cases started to rapidly rise in late February, health services had to explore ways to expand the number of trained health professionals capable of managing the volume of case investigations that were needed. “An important part of the ‘containment phase’ when managing an infectious disease, like COVID-19, is identifying cases and anyone with whom they may have been in contact,” explains Professor Lynne Madden, professor of Population and Planetary Health at Notre Dame. “Currently every person in NSW who has a positive swab for coronavirus has a very careful detailed history taken to identify the places they have been and the people with whom they have been in recent contact. The people who they identify as contacts are then followed up to check if they are well. Anyone who has symptoms is tested for coronavirus – as you can imagine, this is an essential but hugely timeconsuming process.” In response to the crisis, the WSLHD Public Health Unit and Research and Education Network approached the medical schools at Notre Dame and Western Sydney universities to work with them to develop a course to train staff and medical students in case investigation and contact tracing to help meet the anticipated demand.

Western Sydney LHD teamed up with two universities to run an intensive public health training course. Picture: Alistair Berg

The ambition was to develop a standardised core training that might also be adapted for use across NSW and develop surge capacity in the event of successive waves of COVID-19 or indeed, any other form of communicable disease. “We were very conscious that the course could not just be theory based. The training would need to prepare them to step into a role in a public health unit, and after observing a couple of investigations, start working straight away – so it needed to be very active and practical,” said Dr Kate McBride, from the School of Medicine at Western Sydney University. Dr McBride said it was apparent that students and medical professionals needed to quickly become ‘disease detectives’ who are skilled at interviewing. “There is quite a skill involved in speaking to people over the phone and being able to make them feel comfortable about opening up. “Medical students have been

taking clinical histories since year one, but case investigation is much more detailed. You need to ask probing questions. You need to know everything that they have done, and every person that they have had recent contact with. When these people are unwell, they might not be comfortable disclosing their multiple trips to Woolworths – but it’s essential that they do so.” On 20 April a pilot of a day of training was delivered online to a group of 19 people, including health services staff and final-year medical students. The eight-hour session comprised presentations by expert speakers and practice sessions for communication skills, and was complemented by two days of on-site training at public health units including the WSLHD department. “This pilot training program was a rapid, responsive and successful crossinstitutional initiative that addressed an immediate need and has provided an avenue for further training that will

ensure we are prepared to manage potential outbreaks in the future,” says Christine Newman, WSLHD Population Health deputy director. Following this training, four medical students from Notre Dame’s Sydney School of Medicine have been placed in public health units to assist with efforts to continue containing the spread of COVID-19. Final-year medical student Michael Berger was placed at South Eastern Sydney PHU based in Randwick and says the insights he gained during placement have complemented what he’s learnt about population and public health at university. “This program was presented to me as an opportunity to not only learn about public health medicine and gain a unique insight into the local management of the pandemic of our generation, but also as a way to help and make a meaningful contribution to public health and safety,” Michael said. “My role in the PHU was mainly helping with investigating clusters of cases and looking for possible connections or unidentified routes of transmission by digging through the data and re-interviewing COVID-19 cases. I found it an amazing privilege to be able to investigate the spread of COVID-19 in the area I lived my entire life, and I am delighted that I was able to take part in this unique placement and learning opportunity.” Professor Madden said she was proud to have been part of Australia’s successful public health response to this global pandemic. “This is a fine example of how university medical programs and health services can work together to respond to community needs.”

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lacktown and The Hills will benefit from new sports fields and courts, more green space, and better transport connections thanks to the NSW Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund (AIF). Fourteen projects will share in more than $145 million through the fund – $75.9 million from the NSW Government and $70 million from Blacktown City and Hills Shire Council’s local contributions – to help unlock new residential, commercial and industrial development in North West Sydney. Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said the funding will help to deliver local infrastructure projects faster, with construction to start within six months. “This funding is great news for our growing local community and will ensure that when people move into a new house here, they’re also moving into a fully supported new community,” Mr Conolly said. Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the fund will help the councils unlock developer contributions and leverage the State’s investment to accelerate the delivery of community infrastructure. “The AIF will help to close the gap between local contributions and the actual cost of projects, to support the continued delivery of new homes and employment lands in North West Sydney,” Mr Stokes said. “This is a great example of State and Local Government working together to accelerate projects that stimulate the economy and create jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Some of the projects to receive funding include: • a new regional sports park at Schofields, including cricket and soccer playing fields, playgrounds and amenities with integrated stormwater infrastructure [photo of location is attached]; • upgrading the Loftus Street and Windsor Road intersection in Riverstone; • upgrading Hezlett Road to four lanes and improving intersections with Curtis Road and Gum Nut Close in Kellyville; • delivering a multi-purpose sporting and recreational facility at Balmoral Road Reserve Kellyville, including four multi-purpose fields, two cricket ovals, six tennis courts, playground, and picnic areas; and • upgrading Glengarrie Road in Marsden Park.

Mayor of Blacktown City Council Tony Bleasdale OAM said the funding was welcome news for the area. “It is now widely understood at all levels of government that the whole North West Growth Area needs a huge injection of funds for public infrastructure such as community centres, pools, libraries, parking, transport, schools and hospitals,” Mr Bleasedale said. “This funding enables our Council to deliver vital works more quickly, and better manage project budgets to ensure high quality project delivery.” Mayor of Hills Shire Council Dr Michelle Byrne congratulated the NSW Government for enabling Council to bring forward important community projects, while creating vital construction jobs. “We are delighted to deliver these priority projects that will provide much-needed new sport and recreation spaces for our community, as well as road improvements catering for our future transport needs,” Dr Byrne said. To support the construction sector, existing local contributions caps of $50,000 in both the Hills and Blacktown LGA’s - due to end on 30 June - will be continued through to 31 December 2020. Projects were reviewed and selected by an interagency assessment panel with advice from an independent engineering and economic consultancy. For further details and the complete list of projects visit: planning.nsw.gov.au/Accelerated-InfrastructureFund

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

New infrastructure funding for North West Sydney

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

local COLUMNISTS Western News

In my day

We still saw Thailand’s modern capital

Searching for markets By BEN CRANNEY

n the radio the other day, I heard a remake of a song that was a hit when I was at school. It made me feel old. Even saying I listen to the radio makes me feel old. And around the same time, my doctor called me middle aged. Rather than getting depressed, or trying to convince myself that I’m still young, I thought I’d embrace it and write about ‘back in my day’. The biggest difference is how connected travel is. When I first went overseas, if you wanted internet, you went to an internet cafe. You tried not to touch the sticky, stained keyboard, while you listened to the person next to you describe what tourist things they’d been doing. The instagram filter would still be there, but in words. ‘The food here is just so much fresher’ and ‘the tomatoes

are so good, you can eat them like an apple’ or ‘even the air smells better’ as they tried not to breath in from the arm pits of the other backpackers in the tiny room. Despite this, the lack of connectivity was nice, because it forced you to interact with people. Getting lost meant talking with people to find your way, and bus rides were for making friends and getting recommendations about what to do. Or if you were lounging around, you’d read a book instead of flicking through the instagram of people who’d posted exactly the same view as you. Maybe you’d develop a historical interest in the country you’re in and read about how Simon Bolivar, after whom Bolivia is named, overthrew the Spanish monarchy in half of South America, gaining independence. Maybe you’d find the only English copy of The Old Man

With thanks to Google

and the Sea in the Cuban flea markets and develop a holiday long obsession with Hemingway. But it could also mean you miss the best places. My favourite town in Tuscany, Monteriggioni, doesn’t make it into mainstream guide books or websites because it’s so small. It was a chance find on an obscure website. Our hosts in Vanuatu recommended the volcano over visiting the Blue Cave, but on Instagram they are as impressive as each other. And I

Murder mystery M

In the Deep

itch struggled to put the black harness onto the over excited Labrador. There was only one thing that Rusty enjoyed more than his daily walks and that was a ride in the car. Mitch had seen too many injuries to people who had decided not to wear a seat belt and he certainly didn’t wish this on his furry mate. Mitch clicked Rusty into the front seat and wound down the window. “Alright mate let’s head out to the Reefs for a brew with Robbo.” Mitch pointed his car towards Peisley Street and turned right to head out of town. Rusty popped his head out of the opening, with what looked like the biggest grin on his face as his ears flapped in the wind. Although it was another cold day, Mitch enjoyed the winter sun coming in through the window and noted that all of the leaves had fallen from the poplars which lined the road. As Mitch drove, he was listening to international

missed visiting Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, because my last minute question on how to get there meant the hostel owner was only able to organise an all day taxi and I couldn’t search for a cheaper option. It’s only ten years since the internet cafes died. You now need a phone if you want email or Skype. ‘My day’ wasn’t better or worse, just different. And I’m curious, in another ten years, what changes will I be commenting on?

By Tiffany Pascoe

Series 2 Episode 2

radio when something piqued his interest. He turned the sound up to hear the current news story. The news reader said in perfect British accent, “A man accused of being a paedophile who was due to stand trial has been found dead in his cell. Early reports indicate that he took his own life. However, close friends of the deceased have voiced their suspicions about the timing of his death. “I just can’t believe that he would take his own life. He was not suicidal, and he believed he was going to get off,” drawled a female American voice. “You have to ask about the timing of his death so close to his trial.” Mitch turned the radio down. “I’d keep your theories to yourself, if you don’t want to meet with an untimely accident of your own,” he whispered under his breath. Of course, she was right, Mitch knew for a fact that the prisoner was murdered due to his very close association with a prominent political American family. He was not going to be given the opportunity

to play his ‘get of jail free card’ which would have seen him selling out his high-ranking associates in society’s upper echelons for his own freedom. It was a simple job when so many powerful people wanted him silenced. The problem for Mitch was that there were so many others who should have been exposed for what they would continue to do, now that the whistle blower was dead. Mitch drew himself back and looked out the window and noted that the property that was once a vineyard no longer had any grape vines. They had been completely removed and the ploughed paddock didn’t look anywhere near as idyllic as it once did with its little cottage up on the hill. He turned into the Reefs carpark, turned off his car, attached a lead on to Rusty’s harness and said in a firm voice, “Stay” as he got out of the car and walked around to let him out. “Come on mate, I hope they still have Peroni here,” he said as he walked through the carpark into the warmth and the smell of wood fire and the hum of the small pub.

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en aged 50-plus are putting their quality of life on the line by not assessing the risks before doing home improvement projects, according to new research from Westmead Hospital and UNSW Sydney. Westmead Hospital trauma director, Associate Professor Jeremy Hsu said his department regularly treats people with serious injuries from falls at home, and staff noticed many were men in their 50s and 60s who had fallen from ladders. “We know a lot about the frequency of falls and how serious they are but what we wanted to know is why they are occurring and how we can prevent them,” A/Prof Hsu said. “What makes this study unique is it examines the why, not just the what and how.”

That question led nurse educator Katherine Schaffarczyk to examine data from 86 incidents at Westmead Hospital’s emergency department, involving men aged 50-plus suffering a non-occupational fall at home. Nearly half of these hospitalisations were the result of a ladder slipping or collapsing when men were doing general home maintenance, gardening and cleaning. Two-thirds of the patients received multiple injuries and onequarter suffered severe trauma. Mrs Schaffarcyzk conducted in-depth follow up interviews with 12 men and seven spouses to get more information about the cause and impact of the incidents. The main factors leading to the fall included complacency, lack of

Recovered ladder fall patient Paul Molloy, pictured with his wife Betty at their home.

assessment of risk factors such as footwear, the surface the ladder was placed on, ensuring someone was home, and recognising their physical limitations. Many of those interviewed reported life-changing impacts for themselves and their families, even from minor trauma such as a simple fracture. Paul Molloy came close to death in 2013 when he fell from the top rung of a ladder while installing a blind at home alone, suffering broken ribs, a punctured lung and fractured shoulder. The Greystanes resident, aged 71 at the time, was unable to cry out for help and endured an agonising 10-minute crawl into his home to call triple-zero. “I was put into an induced coma at Westmead Hospital and spent three days in intensive care. Dr Hsu said if I hit my head I probably would’ve died,” Paul said. “The recovery process was terrible. I was in a lot of pain and traumatised by

the memory of being alone, thinking that was the end for me. I’m still squeamish reliving it today. “I’ve told many friends and family what I’ve gone through and they’re extra careful now. Many people don’t necessarily take care or think anything could happen to them.” Mrs Schaffarczyk said the research highlighted the need for community injury prevention campaigns about the dangers of falls from ladders from seemingly low-risk everyday activities. “Many men overestimate their abilities, particularly as they get older and don’t want to stop doing the things they’ve always done,” she said. “But the sad reality is these incidents can lead to serious injuries that have long-lasting impacts on the lives of men and their families.” Mrs Schaffarczyk said the research identified several preventative measures to collaboratively explore, including safety equipment such as gutter hooks to

Balance At Work

LET’S start at the very beginning, it’s a very good place to start. Make the most of the fresh opportunities this new financial year will bring by setting your business goals for the year ahead now. Motivate your people to get your business to where you want it to be. Focus on these 3 key areas of development for this new financial year. 1. Create Culture Is your company culture as good as it could be? Is your business environment a positive one that feeds productivity, collaboration and strategic thinking? Now’s the right time to sensor check your company culture. What actions, systems and values are in play and how productive are they in achieving employee engagement and business success? Building a strong company culture isn’t a wishywashy feel-good practice, it is a smart business strategy that has tangible outcomes in productivity

and profits. Make your culture measurable and accountable to see your staff engagement and targets going through the roof. 2. Engage Employees What do you want your organisation to have achieved this time next year? Build your vision for the new financial year and set clear business goals. Communicate the goals to your employees so they feel included in the process. Listen to your employees’ insights and ensure their professional opinions are valued. If your team is engaged and motivated, there will be a positive ripple effect across the rest of your business. For the majority of Australian workers, nonfinancial company benefits are just as, if not more important, than salary. Make your team want to be there by investing in their career with learning and development, providing flexible working

be included with the sale of all ladders. Here are some tips for avoiding a fall: • Stop to assess the risks before doing any home maintenance, gardening and cleaning • Never climb a ladder or do other risky behaviour while home alone • Wear proper safety equipment including non-slip shoes and wellfitting clothing • Upgrade your equipment, especially ladders, and always follow the manufacturer’s advice This week is Men’s Health Week, an annual initiative to promote the health of men and boys. You can read more here about Men’s Health Week here: www.menshealthweek.org.au/

Westmead Hospital trauma director, Associate Professor Jeremy Hsu, saved Paul’s life with titanium plates inserted into his rib cage. Paul was just the second patient at Westmead Hospital to undergo this procedure.

With Susan Rochester

arrangements or encouraging them to pursue their passions. Get a consistent, meaningful reward strategy and a performance management system in place to ensure your employees love their job and excel in what they do. 3. Grow Leaders Leaders need specific sets of skills to navigate challenges and this new financial year will undoubtedly have its fair share of those. If you know what you want to achieve you will need the best leaders to guide and support the rest of your team to get there, so don’t be afraid to invest in leadership development with training or coaching. Great leaders will motivate your employees and nurture your company culture. Discover how Balance at Work can support your business goals with a smart people management strategy for the new financial year.

Get in touch for a free consultation Call

0448 306 180

or email susanr@balanceatwork.com.au www.balanceatwork.com.au

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

New research reveals serious DIY risks to men over 50

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

A Hotelier and an ex-Champion Sculler

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

illiam Augustine Wintle, born at Appin in 1843 was the son of convicts Abraham Wintle and Ellen Bourne. Abraham was born in 1795 in Gloucester in England, one of 150 convicts transported on the “Shipley” arriving in NSW in September 1820. He was convicted at Monmouth Assizes for a term of 7 years in August 1818. Abraham married Ellen Bourne in June 1828 at Parramatta‘s Church Of England. She was born in 1805 in Ireland. She was tried in 1826 in Fermanagh and sentenced to 7 years. She came on the “Brothers (2)” in 1827. The family moved to Camden where he was an overseer for Robert Johnston. Johnston had entered the navy as a first-class volunteer on HMS ‘Malabar’ in 1804, one of the first Australian born to serve in the navy. He served as master’s mate on the HMS ‘Semiramis’, ‘Norge’ and ‘Nemesis’ and saw action off the coast of the Netherlands, Cadiz, Baltimore and New Orleans in various attacks. In 1816 he returned to NSW when peace followed the war of 1812. Abraham died in November 1865 at his residence “Glen-hill” near Picton after a painful and lingering illness. (Picton was originally named “Stone quarry” in 1841 and the creek given the same name. By 1845 it was renamed Picton after Sir Thomas Picton who was one of the Duke of Wellington’s Generals at the Battle of Waterloo). Abraham was an old veteran of the Battle and his badge and medals were passed onto his daughter. Ellen died at “Glen-hill” in 1877 at the age of 72 years “deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and relatives”. William Augustine married Diana Elizabeth Gaudry in 1874 at the age of 30. Diana was born in April 1853. She was the daughter of George Littleton Gaudry born in Windsor in 1816. Diana’s mother Elizabeth was also born in Windsor in 1814. William’s family then moved to Moss Vale where he was the proprietor of the “Commercial” hotel. (This hotel was originally called the “Jemmy Moss Inn” built 1868 and was named after Dr Charles Throsby’s servant James “Jemmy” Moss. Later is was used as the local Post Office and General Store until 1873 when it became the hotel. In 1819 Governor Macquarie gave the land grant to the doctor in recognition of his exploration that opened up the South Coast and Southern Highlands and became the first land grant in that area). At Moss Vale in February 1905, William Augustine was one of the men elected to fill a vacancy as an Alderman on the Municipal Council. This did not last long because the family moved to Penrith where he was the licensee of the “Royal Hotel” that was on the corner of Henry & Commercial Street, Penrith. This hotel was originally built for Amelia Williams in 1882, formally known then as the “Amelia Palace” boarding house. In 1901 the hotel licensee Mr Porter was found in the backyard in a bad way having sleepwalked over the balcony. In 1905, William thought a change of air might be beneficial and took a trip to Coolamon near Junee. He suffered for many years from heart disease that became much worse and was brought on by the shock caused by the death of his three-year-old daughter Diana in July 1905 at the Nepean Cottage Hospital. During his illness he was attended by local doctors Barber and Pym but in 1906 he passed quietly away at the age of 63 years at the hotel. While in Moss Vale William was a member of the Mounted Rifles for several years under Colonel Henry Beauchamp “Harry” Lasseter. William was the father of William Edward “Billy” Wintle (Jnr) who

was born at Glen-hill in 1875. Billy received a Lieutenant’s commission in the South African Boer war. He was in the Oaks Unit ‘A’ Squadron, NSW Mounted Rifles - 3rd NSW Imperial Bushmen who departed on the ‘SS Langton Grange’ in 1899 and returned on the ‘HMT Drayton Grange’ in 1902. He received the Queen Alexandra Pipe for Gallantry, Queen’s South Africa Medal and 2 Clasps for South Africa. Edward “Ned” Hanlan, the Canadian champion sculler stayed at the Royal Hotel in Penrith when he rowed in championships on the Nepean River. He gave an interview to a Newcastle paper saying that “I was given a grand reception when I landed back in Australia in March, 1884, and I won by defeating Laycock on the Nepean River. I was wined and dined so much that I began to lose form. Bill Beach the Australian champion sculler challenged me and although not in the best condition, I think I should have won had 1 not run up against a steamboat. It was fortunate that I was not killed. (it was mentioned that some of the spectators became so excited they fell into the river!). The shock of that race unnerved me for a few months and in my second race with Beach I had no speed and was easily defeated. In 1887 after this, I felt discouraged and took no care of myself. The second time I rowed against Beach on the Nepean, it is estimated that the race was witnessed by 160,000 persons. I felt my old ambition returning. I am taking care of myself and I am not yet too old to do good work. I am younger than Beach was when I surrendered the championship to him. I had my third race with Beach on the Nepean that was for 2,500 (US) dollars aside and the championship. It was about the fastest and best race I ever rowed and the only mistake I made was in not crowding the pace earlier. Beach won by a second and a half and he was “dead” at the finish line while I was strong. I would surely have beaten him in another quarter of a mile. I lost my money and the championship by the merest possible margin.” The old Royal Hotel was demolished around the 1960’s. Photo courtesy of NSW State Library. Sources: Charles Bateson-The convict ships 1787-1868, State Library of Queensland, Convict Transportation Registers Database 1787-1867, Ancestry website, Mormon Website, National Library of Australia. Trove, Peter Mayberry-Irish convicts to NSW 1788-1849, Census of NSW 1828, Government Gazette of NSW, Australian Royalty, My Heritage online Newspapers, Aussie towns website, Scrutineer & Berrima Press, The Oaks Historical Society-Camden Remembers the Boer War.

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Western News

local news

he Petbarn Foundation and Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs have partnered for the seventh year in a row to encourage Australians to raise much needed funds to assist people who are blind or have low vision. Petbarn Blacktown are accepting donations to the Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal from 1 July until 2 August 2020. The appeal aims to raise more than $500,000 to help cover the costs of breeding, training, and caring for at least ten Seeing Eye Dogs. Over the past six years, through the support of Aussies across the country, The Petbarn Foundation’s Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal has raised $3.2 million, enabling 70 Seeing Eye Dogs to be bred and trained. Petbarn Blacktown Store Manager, Amanda Mckail, says, “Seeing Eye Dogs do more than just allow Australians with vision loss to retain their independence and mobility – they provide companionship, alleviate the effects of social isolation and contribute to all-round better quality of life.” “Seeing Eye Dogs is just another example of how animals can enrich our lives. We encourage everyone to visit our Petbarn stores or donate online to help continue to provide these special assistance dogs to people in the community,” Amanda continues. It costs more than $50,000 and takes up to two years to train a Seeing Eye Dog. Training begins when the dog is still a puppy and involves teaching them basic socialisation skills and obedience. On maturity, each dog receives up to six months of expert training with a specialised instructor. Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs General

Manager Graeme Craig says, “Our partnership with The Petbarn Foundation is integral to helping our Seeing Eye Dogs pups complete the extensive training they require. “It takes a lot of expertise, time, love, patience and funding to raise these special dogs that will one day become the gift of independence for people who are blind or have low vision. For the right person, the highly trained dogs help them to move quicker and navigate obstacles with much more reliability and safety,” Graeme continues. As part of this fundraising effort, on July 23, four Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will go

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

Petbarn Blacktown lend a helping paw to Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal

head-to-head (and tail-to-tail) with the inaugural Seeing Eye Dogs Puppy Games. To launch the Games, super premium pet food brand Royal Canin will be matching each donation made from 12pm on Game Day up to a total of $50,000, which means every dollar gifted will have double the impact for people who are blind or have low vision. For more information on The Puppy Games visit thepuppygames.com.au. Donations for The Petbarn Foundation’s appeal can be made by visiting a local Petbarn store, or online at petbarn.com.au/seda.

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REAL ESTATE

Western News

Mortgage activity up 10 per cent, driven by refinancing Alex Soncini

Most people are under the misconception that it costs too much to refinance, but that’s not the case. The costs associated with refinancing have reduced significantly over the past couple of years. Many borrowers believe the process is complicated and there’s a great deal of paperwork involved and put the notion of refinancing in the too hard basket. Choosing a home loan is a big deal, so it’s really important that you find the right loan that suits your individual needs. There’s no reason to pay a high interest rate on your home loan and managing it closely could save you thousands of dollars a year. Being loyal to your lender is not a good reason to pay a higher rate or simply being lazy and time-poor, can also be offences punishable by a higher debt in the world of finance so now is the perfect time to know your numbers

and make sure your home loan is competitive. Refinancing is certainly not as difficult as it used to be and Wealthwiz can guide you through the entire loan process. We do all the work for you and here to save you money while

providing you with the important details on each lender, so you can be confident in your selection. To get a better understanding contact Alex at Wealthwiz for a free home loan review on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au

1, 2 & 3 YEAR FIXED RATES AVAILABLE OWNER OCCUPIED HOME LOANS FROM

INVESTMENT HOME LOANS FROM

2.29% 3.64% 2.59% 4.17% P.A.

3 year fixed rate#

Comparison rate

P.A.

3 year fixed rate#

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ortgage activity is up 10 per cent on this time last year, according to CoreLogic’s new Early Market Indicators report. Through to the week ending June 28, activity was up 10.33 per cent on the same time in 2019. Unsurprisingly the uptick in mortgage activity has been driven by mortgage holders refinancing given record low interest rates. If the interest rate on your home loan doesn’t start with a three, you’re probably being overcharged. You could possibly find interest rates starting with two if you meet certain criteria. Many Australians are paying too much for their home loans, even though a lower interest rate is available. We are seeing some of the lowest home loan rates on record, so now is the perfect time to know your numbers, and consider refinancing.

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

DISCLAIMER: Auswide Bank Ltd ABN 40 087 652 060. Australian Credit Licence 239686 is the credit issuer. Approval is subject to meeting our credit assessment criteria. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Prior to entering into a credit contract with us you should read our Credit Guide. #This rate may be withdrawn at any time without notice and is not available for existing loans, loans to fund investment property, loans with an LVR over 90% (excepting FHLDS), ‘interest only’ loans, loan ‘pre-approvals’ (excepting FHLDS) or for loans to overseas residents. After expiry of the fixed term the rate reverts to the applicable Freedom Package discount variable rate. An annual package fee applies. ^^This rate may be withdrawn at any time without notice and is not available for existing loans, owner occupied property, loans with an LVR over 80%, ‘interest only’ loans, loan ‘pre-approvals’ or for loans to overseas residents. After expiry of the fixed term the rate reverts to the applicable Freedom Package discount variable rate. An annual package fee applies. ~Auswide Bank is a panel lender for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS). Eligibility criteria apply. Once the Scheme allocation for non-major panel lenders has been utilised (or taken up), standard lending approval criteria, including the need for LMI where appropriate, will apply. ^Comparison Rate is based on secured loan of $150,000 or more over 25 years. WARNING: This comparison rate applies only to the example given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees and cost savings such as fee waivers are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan. +Break costs may apply. **Rate Lock Fee applies.

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

rahame Ware Jnr and wife Renee opened the Hawkesbury Valley Equestrian Centre off Springwood Road Yarramundi just 18 months ago but have worked tirelessly into turning a rough hobby farm property into an Equestrian Centre. Grahame and Renee are both passionate equine professionals, having competed and trained in many different disciplines over their years in the Horse Industry. Grahame is a 4th-generation ‘Horse Master’ for films, following in the footsteps of great-grandfather Lesley, grandfather Lionel and father Grahame Ware Senior in what is now a 40-year family tradition. Grahame has spent over 25 years working full-time as a Horse Trainer, which has included breaking in young horses to saddle and harness, training **Liberty horses, and competing in several different horse disciplines. Whilst not born into an equestrian family, Renee found her life’s passion very early and has been riding her entire life. She started competing in ‘cutting’ events at 8 years old and now, over the past 6 years, has started competing in both Camp-drafting and Stock Horse Shows. Grahame and Renee joined forces in 2012, working with horses on the set of the motion picture ‘The Great Gatsby’. In 2013, they were approached to re-open the former ‘Scenic Hills

Photo: Noel Rowsell

Riding Ranch’ in Denham Court, Campbelltown, which they opened under the name of the ‘Sydney Trail Riding Centre’. It was a great opportunity to offer everyday people a unique location, where they could meet and ride the horses used on film and television. After 4 successful years of trail riding and teaching people to ride, Grahame and Renee wanted to create their very own Equestrian Centre, where they could train people and horses intensively on a smaller more intimate scale. During their days at Sydney Trail Riding Centre, they had gathered an amazing team of staff and instructors, who have stayed on when Grahame and Renee started their new venture in

Yarramundi, the Hawkesbury Valley Equestrian Centre. In their expansive role with the Entertainment Industry, Grahame and Renee pride themselves on supplying trained animals and livestock which are accustomed to working in a variety of situations. These include busy city streets, office buildings, battle sequences, in elevators, on barges, on trains, around explosives, around fire, water etc. With his much admired and trained eye for detail, film producer’s worldwide put their trust in Grahame to create undeniable screen value. The Ware family has been working in the film industry since the 1940’s, and continue to serve the film industry with the utmost professionalism.

** Liberty horse: a circus horse that performs tricks (as wheeling, circling, running in file) in a group and without a rider.

Photo: supplied

Inclusive playspaces around Blacktown are swinging into construction

everal of Blacktown City’s most loved parks are being transformed with new and inclusive playspaces for all members of the community to enjoy. Construction has begun on upgrades to Kruse Park, Tregear, Lake Woodcroft Park and William Lawson Park, Prospect. The designs were developed by Council in conjunction with the local communities. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Accessible and inclusive open spaces ensure that people of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds can play and enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle. “Council is committed to providing the best possible recreation facilities for our residents in more than 400 parks and 1000 reserves across the City.” Lake Woodcroft was one of the first parks to go under the shovel with construction beginning early in June following consultations with local residents. The current playspace is being moved to a new location within

with climbing elements, as well as a slide and spinner. The star attraction is a giant tunnel item, one of only a few currently installed in parks around Sydney. A bench and sandstone blocks will provide seating under natural shade.

Artist Impression of the playspace at Lake Woodcroft.

the park and will have a variety of equipment including a trampoline, spinner, swings, springer, flying fox, and a multi-play unit with climbing elements and a slide. A number of seating options will be included under natural shading from new and existing tress. Local school students had a big hand in the design of the new playspace in Kruse Park, Tregear.

Council approached Tregear Public School and asked students for their thoughts and ideas on what they would like to see in the playspace. Those comments plus online consultations with the community helped formulate how best the new playspace could be integrated into the park. The new playspace will include multiple swings, a multi-play unit

William Lawson Park at Prospect, is also being transformed following a successful round of community engagement in November 2019. The new playspace will have a variety of new equipment including two multi-play units with climbing and sliding elements, junior and senior swings, a rope swing, an inclusive double carousel spinner and a rocker. “Council has ensured the upgrades support the greening of our public spaces. The new playspaces will see the planting of many new trees among existing trees providing the maximum amount of natural shade.” Mayor Bleasdale said. The upgrades are being constructed with the assistance of the NSW Government 2019-20, Everyone Can Play Grant Program.

Western News 10 July 2020 Issue 113

Hawkesbury Valley Equestrian Centre re-opens for riders

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 10 July 2020

High drama in round 8 of the nrl By MARK GEYER

ound 8 of the NRL was definitely controversial. But it was also tremendously exciting. Last Thursday night’s game between the Storm and Roosters was one for the ages. It had everything that is great about our game. The Storm roared back into premiership contention with a rousing 27 points to 25 victory over last year’s premiers. While the Storm were flying, the same cannot be said of the Brisbane Broncos. Since the Covid-19 lockdown they have lost 6 in a row while only managing to score on average 10 points per game and allowing an an alarming average of 32 points conceded per game! Something is really wrong with the Bronc-OHs. The battle of the big cats last Saturday night had everything too.

Steve Crichton reaffirming his status as the game’s next ‘big thing’, scoring a double against the Tigers in a 19-12 win. But the game did have its fair share of drama, none more so than the BJ Leilua coat hanger on Penriths fullback Dylan Edwards. It was a cheap shot that was totally unnecessary and will now see Leilua miss up to 4 matches for his brain explosion. Otherwise, Api Koroisau continues to impress with another man of the match performance. Give him the ‘buy of the season’ award now.

Parramatta continue to impress with a 42 to 4 demolition of the NQ Cowboys. Clint Gutherson is in career best form as he continues to put pressure on the NSW origin outside backs, whilst leading the board on the Dally M medal table. Then last Sunday we saw another video ref controversy with Manly being denied a definite penalty in the dying seconds of their encounter with the Newcastle Knights. With the game having mere seconds to go, Manly winger Tevita Funa raced down the sideline and kicked ahead

before being dragged to the ground from behind from the Knights Bradman Best. A penalty every day of the week. But the bunker didn’t think so, squashing any chance that Manly had of equalising and forcing the game into Golden Point. Manly players were ropeable, especially their big front rower Addin Fonua-Blake, who approached referee Grant Atkins and called him a “f...ing retard” and was sent from the field after the game had finished! Explosive stuff indeed. The desperation from some teams is at an all time high in this condensed version of the 20/20 NRL season, unfortunately that desperation is leading to illegal actions on the field that cannot be taken lightly. See you at the game (next week),

MG (random Westie) OAM