IT is sad news indeed that Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has passed away.
Our thoughts are with his wife Nina, children and extended family.
Cr Bleasdale served the community with energy and dedication since first being elected as a councillor in 1996.
Elected mayor in 2019, Cr Bleasdale proved a visionary leader and guided projects that will transform our city, such as Blacktown Quarter.
He loved working for the community and forged countless friendships with people from all backgrounds.
His loss will be felt deeply.
Vale Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM
On behalf of the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber, we express our deep sorrow at the passing of Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale.
Tony worked tirelessly for the people of Blacktown for three decades, and for the broader labour movement his whole working life. It should be noted that his sudden passing occurred as he was working on his great passion, providing opportunities for the people of Blacktown.
The support Tony gave the Blacktown Chamber was nothing short of outstanding. His vision for Blacktown included the growth of the business community and he did his utmost to invest in all that our Chamber stood for. We will be forever grateful for his genuine and unwavering commitment.
Tony was a larger-than-life character who made a positive impact everywhere he went. Countless Western Sydney lives were touched by his efforts. Tony was a man of great integrity and decency matched only by his work ethic. Western Sydney has lost a great warrior.
Our thoughts and condolences are with Tony’s wife Nina and their children. They have lost a loving husband and father, and we say thank you for sharing him with us.
Vale Tony sorely missed already.
Trevor Oldfield AM KSJ JP
President
The Hon. Nathan Rees Patron
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mayor of Blacktown City Council, Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM.
Tony was well loved within the Blacktown community, fiercely advocating for local residents for over 30 years. He was also a great friend and mentor to me, as we worked together in our shared communities for many years.
My thoughts and love are with Mayoress Nina Bleasdale and all of their family and loved ones.
Vale Tony.
Deputy Premier Prue Car
Tony Bleasdale wasn’t just the Mayor of our city - he was a fundamentally decent, loving person. He was giving and generous and always there for our people. Never afraid to speak up, a believer that he had a role to play advancing social justice, delivering better for our community because they deserved better.
I always thought the world of him, I was lucky to know him.
We have no control over when our departure will be but there was something just not right about him leaving us the way he did.
I really feel for his family and know many in our community will feel a deep soulful ache learning of his passing.
I don’t just thank Tony for his public service - I thank him because he profoundly loved serving the public. Vale. You have no idea how much I’ll miss you mate.
Ed Husic MP
Very saddened to learn of the sudden passing of the Mayor of Blacktown City Council, Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM.
For over 30 years, Tony fought passionately for the people of Blacktown. His sense of community and commitment to countless charitable organisations over decades helped shaped Blacktown City into the vibrant place it is today.
Tony truly loved Blacktown – and I know there are many people today who will be reeling from this loss.
Tony and I served on Council together in the early 2000s. I’ll always remember his wicked sense of humour and straight-shooting, nononsense way of communicating.
My thoughts today are with the Mayoress, and the entire Bleasdale family.
Vale Tony Bleasdale. You will be deeply missed.
Michelle Rowland MP
It was with great sadness that we learned the Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM, passed away suddenly last night.
First and foremost, our thoughts are with Tony’s wife Nina, his children and their extended family.
Tony’s warm and engaging personality led him to forge many friendships across Sydney after arriving from the United Kingdom in 1963.
Starting as a bricklayer, he worked for 40 years in the building industry, and with tremendous drive and energy,
established his own successful labour hire business.
Tony served the community he loved with the same energy and commitment.
First elected as a Blacktown City councillor in 1996, Tony was a strong advocate for the area and a champion of Western Sydney.
He was proud of the incredible diversity of Blacktown City and passionate about delivering services and opportunities for its residents and businesses.
Tony was also a passionate advocate for First Nations people.
When elected Mayor in 2019, Tony proved a visionary leader in transforming the city to better serve a growing population.
He was central in negotiating the $2 billion Walker Corporation Blacktown Quarter project, which will provide investment, jobs and growth.
Tony was loved by his community and he loved it back, with a generous heart and a genuine commitment to a bright future.
Councillor Chris Quilkey, Deputy Mayor of Blacktown City
MANY people are fascinated by what goes on in a prison and assume correctional officers are responsible for all aspects of inmate care and rehabilitation, but there are many non-custodial staff who play an important role.
This includes Parklea Correctional Centre’s case planning team, who provide programs and support so inmates can make better choices and learn to lead more positive lives once they are released.
NSW correctional centres and Community Corrections offices will celebrate the hard work and dedication of non-custodial staff on Administrative Professionals Day on Friday, 3 May.
Senior Case Planner James said he enjoyed helping inmates through the case planning process and leading a team of highly skilled and dedicated individuals, which includes former officers.
“The role of the case plan is to address their offending behaviours and attitudes and we give them the tools they need to succeed,” James said.
Inmates are not obliged to create a case plan, but those who do must agree to its contents before it is finalised.
To develop case plans, the team interview inmates to discover what their needs, motivations and barriers are.
Case planner Kylie said assistance could include information on support services, helping them with property, or checking on their pets.
But often inmates need help with more complex issues that requires participation in programs, such as drug and alcohol interventions, thinking skills, emotional awareness and anger management.
“We have to uncover their needs and motivations by asking them questions and from there we develop
the plan together. We are walking beside them in their journey and we are there to support them,” Kylie said.
James said relationship-building was vital to getting the best results for inmates.
“Building rapport and trust is important, as many are cautious at first, depending on their experience in jail.”
Kylie said she enjoyed being a case planner as she was making a difference.
“I do this job as it’s rewarding to have a positive impact on inmates, so when they get back into the community, they’re better off,” Kylie said.
“Some inmates have never had anyone to listen, to care, to empathise. A lot of the time we are the first people who have cared about them and that gets them thinking about what they want to do moving forward.”
Sam was a correctional officer for about 18 months before he became a case planner six months ago.
He has a master’s in social science and majored in criminology. He wanted to work in the criminal justice system, but felt he needed experience in the field to get a foot in the sector.
“Being an officer was very interesting, and I learned a lot, but I wanted to build on what I learned at uni and being a case planner is closer to my skill set and knowledge set,” Sam said.
“As a case planner you get to know the inmate and build rapport with them and deal with their problems. I’m not here to question why they’re in prison; I’m someone to hear their story and they steer the direction of the plan.”
Sam said case planners need to have good interview skills, have the ability to listen, be tolerant, and most importantly, have patience so you can determine the best interests of the inmate.
James said case planning was important to the legal process as it enables inmates to get referred to programs that are going to help them with their legal cases and meet their needs.
“If you reduce reoffending for one person, you potentially help hundreds of people,” James said.
For more information on the types of roles available at Parklea, go to: https://www.mtctrains. com.au/careers/
Parklea has been operated by MTC Australia on behalf of Corrective Services NSW since 2019.
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BY KERRIE DAVIES
AS I sit at my desk today to write this week’s Editor’s column, the last thing I expected to be writing is that the Mayor of the city has passed away.
Sadly, whilst on a delegation to China, Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM passed away during the flight home.
The news has come as such a shock to us all and the team here at Western News would like to extend our condolences to Tony’s family, friends and his colleagues at Blacktown Council.
Mayor Bleadale’s untimely passing has no doubt left a void in the hearts of all who knew him and the wider Blacktown community. His passion for serving the people and nurturing the growth of Blacktown was evident in every initiative he undertook. Whether it was spearheading community projects or advocating for anyone disadvantaged, Mayor Bleadale was always a fair and dedicated leader.
The Mayor’s vision was always for a more inclusive Blacktown. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and the positive changes he brought about in this area.
Rest in peace, Tony. You will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten.
MOUNT DRUITT community sports groups have shared in $4.4 million in NSW Government funding following the awarding of grants in the Local Sport Grant Program.
The Program provides up to up to $20,000 to individual clubs and associations with $50,000 available in each electorate to increase participation in community sport with 579 projects awarded funding in this year’s program.
Four projects were awarded funding in the Mount Druitt Electorate for new equipment, programs and facilities valued at $50,000.00.
Projects to receive funding include:
• Africa United Rugy League Inc. – purchase of uniforms, equipment & training programs
• Eastern Creek Pioneers Soccer Club Inc. – replacement of club jerseys and club training equipment
• Plumpton Braves Baseball Club – update of equipment
• Western Raptors Junior Rugy Union Club – “Keep them in Sport” Program
“Sport is a way of life and is also a lifeline for many in the Mount Druitt community,” Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla MP said.
“This funding will help our local clubs and their army of volunteers to provide more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation.
“I congratulate the funding recipients and look forward to the amazing projects they will deliver.”
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the Local Sport Grant Program provides vital funds for community sport.
“This year we have doubled the funding for individual projects, meaning grassroots community sports clubs and associations can provide more programs and equipment to support their participants.
“With the critical role sport plays in keeping people healthy, active and socially connected, this funding is vital to community health, wellbeing and sense of identity.”
For further information visit: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grantprogram
BY BRADLEY LAWLESS PRESIDENT, CITY OF
THE iconic silhouette of the Scout reconnaissance vehicle, known affectionately as the Iron Maiden, has become a familiar sight, evoking memories of valour and camaraderie. This vehicle, hailing from the 2nd Commando Regiment, holds a special place in the hearts of many, serving as a poignant tribute to three extraordinary individuals: CPL Cameron Baird VC MG, PTE Tim Aplin, and LCPL Merv McDonald.
The story of the Iron Maiden traces back to the rugged landscapes of Afghanistan, where it bore witness to acts of bravery and selflessness that would etch themselves into the annals of history. A poignant image captured before their fateful deployment in 2009 immortalizes CPL Baird VC MG and his two mates, PTE Aplin and LCPL McDonald. These three
men, bound by mateship and duty, embarked on many missions that would ultimately claim their lives in separate incidents.
The Iron Maiden, adorned with the inscription “Iron Maiden” – a nod to the trio’s Favorite band – served faithfully despite its lack of armour, traversing the treacherous terrain of Afghanistan on multiple tours. Tragically, PTE Tim Aplin was killed in action on 21 June 2010. Later LCPL Merv McDonald was killed in action 30 August 2012, and CPL Cameron Baird VC MG on was killed in Action 22 June 2013. Their loss reverberated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on their fellow soldiers and the community they served.
For the 2nd Commando Regiment, the Iron Maiden transcends its role as a mere vehicle; it stands as a living memorial to their fallen comrades, a tangible reminder of their courage and sacrifice. This year, as the nation paused to commemorate ANZAC week, the 2nd Commando Regiment entrusted the Iron Maiden
to the community of Blacktown, allowing it to serve as a poignant symbol of remembrance and resilience.
All three soldiers, CPL Baird, PTE Aplin, and LCPL McDonald, had ties to Western Sydney, where they trained at Holsworthy and Richmond. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew them and the countless lives they touched with their bravery and dedication.
In recognition of his extraordinary valour, CPL Cameron Baird was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military honour bestowed by Australia. His courage, and that of his comrades, serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations, reminding us of all of the profound sacrifices made in service to our nation.
As we reflect on the legacy of the Iron Maiden and the brave souls it represents, let us honour their memory by striving to uphold the values of courage, loyalty, and selflessness for which they so nobly stood.
ASIGNIFICANT surge in participation marked Blacktown’s ANZAC Day march and dawn service.
The 2024 Dawn Service commenced with a solemn march down Second Ave towards the Blacktown War Memorial, escorted by NSW Police and volunteers from the State Emergency Service and the NSW Rural Fire Service.
Following the march was the Dawn Service, bolstered by the presence of the Australian Army’s 1st Military Police Battalion, Australian Army Cadets Corps, 202 Blacktown Army Cadets, and the Blacktown Air League.
An emotive service ensued, with the President of the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch delivering a heartfelt speech tailored to honour all veterans, particularly emphasising the contributions of our younger service members.
Positioned at the heart of the service was a Scout Reconnaissance Vehicle from the 2nd Commando Regiment, known as the “Iron Maiden,” serving
as a poignant reminder of the loss of young service members stationed in Western Sydney.
Veterans and members of the
community gathered to pay their respects and lay wreaths, concluding the event with a poignant RAAF flyover.
AFTER 200 years of service in New South Wales, the NSW Sheriff’s Office unveiled a commemorative poppy patch in 2024 to honour ANZAC Week and Remembrance Day.
During April 2024 the NSW Sheriff’s Officers proudly wore the poppy patch demonstrating their support of the past and present Australian Defence Force members. The newly unveiled Poppy patch was worn by Sheriff’s Officers throughout April and will be
worn again on Remembrance Day, 11 November 2024.
On the day of the Patch release, Sheriff of NSW Tracy Hall stated ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day hold significant importance for all Australians, serving as poignant reminders of the invaluable contributions made by over 1.5 million service men and women across various conflicts, wars, and peacekeeping missions. It’s also a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the more than 103,000
Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of our country.
The release of the patch was marked by the presence of members from both the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch and the NSW Commando Association, who not only attended the unveiling but also sold badges to raise funds and awareness for veteran charities such as RSL LifeCare. Additionally, representatives from the Australian Army showcased equipment from the Special Forces Command, serving as
a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the Australian Defence Force, which has lost four members in the last seven months, all posted in Western Sydney.
Among the notable displays was the presence of the 2nd Commando Regiment’s Scout Reconnaissance Vehicle, affectionately known as the Iron Maiden. Members of the RSL and Commando Association spoke about its usage and the operations it supports.
APOWERFUL collaboration between the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles, Blacktown RSL Sub Branch, the Australian Army 1 MP Battalion, Special Forces Command, and the Blacktown Workers Club culminated in a poignant opening ceremony for the NSW Cup Round 8 ANZAC Day clash between Parramatta and the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles.
The atmosphere was charged with reverence and respect as the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles unveiled their 2024 ANZAC Day jersey, which the players proudly donned for the match against Parramatta. Adding to the solemnity of the occasion, the 2nd Commando Regiment’s Scout Reconnaissance Vehicle, affectionately known as the Iron Maiden, stood prominently at a strategic location, serving as a focal point for the ceremony and
contributing to the unveiling of the 2024 jersey.
Prior to kick-off, an emotional
ANZAC tribute was conducted, setting the tone for a deeply moving experience both on and off the field.
The Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all involved in making the event possible, including their sponsors whose support was instrumental in bringing the special ANZAC Jerseys to fruition.
The Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles, a collaborative effort between the Manly Sea Eagles and the Blacktown Workers Club, demonstrated their unwavering commitment to honouring the ANZAC legacy, fostering unity, and paying homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
As the players took to the field, adorned in the symbolic ANZAC Day jerseys, it was evident that the spirit of camaraderie and remembrance permeated every aspect of the game, reinforcing the significance of ANZAC Day in the hearts and minds of all involved.
THE Blacktown Bears honoured the ANZAC Spirit in April by hosting a distinctive ANZAC Service, unlike anything typically seen at the junior rugby league level.
Veterans from the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch and members of the Australian Defence Force joined together at Jack Myers Field in Blacktown to support the Blacktown Bears Junior Rugby League Club in conducting an ANZAC tribute.
The entire club and local Junior Rugby league community turned out for the event, which coincided with the Back to Blacktown JRLC day festivities.
Expressing gratitude, Blacktown Bears President Sam Owen extended his appreciation to everyone involved, remarking on the day as one of the club’s most memorable occasions. He offered special thanks to the committee, volunteers, and the RSL sub-Branch for their dedicated involvement in organising the ANZAC services and arranging for the display of the Iron Maiden, a vehicle of profound significance.
Addressing the players, Owen highlighted the exemplary respect shown for the ANZACs, emphasising the importance of preserving the significance of ANZAC Day, particularly among the youth. He also extended thanks to past members for their presence, expressing delight in seeing a growing number returning each year.
Commending the players for their outstanding performances filled with passion and commitment, Owen closed by acknowledging the collective effort of everyone involved with the Blacktown City Junior Rugby League Club, emphasising the community’s continual growth and commitment to ensuring an enjoyable experience for all players and families.
BLACKTOWN City Council is looking after the health and safety of its community by installing 10 new bus shelters to provide shade and protection from the sun and harsh weather.
The shelters include seating, cover from the elements and tactiles for people with visual impairments.
Council funded the installation of five shelters this financial year. These locations are:
• Richmond Road, Quakers Hill (opposite Alford Street)
• Richmond Road, Dean Park (to the rear of Kenneth Crescent)
• Riverbank Drive, The Ponds
• Lucretia Road, Seven Hills
• Pully Drive, Ropes Crossing (works in progress)
Council also received funding through the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program. This will provide shelters at:
• Sentry Drive, Stanhope Gardens
• James Cook Drive, Kings Langley
• Huntingwood Drive, Huntingwood
• Wilson Road, Acacia Gardens
• Carlisle Avenue, Mount Druitt
The shelters funded though the LRCI Program will be installed in the next six months.
Council is the sole provider of bus shelters in the local government area and regularly adds, maintains and replaces this infrastructure.
The shelter locations were guided by community consultation.
Council recently made submissions to the 2023 NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Current and future public transport needs in Western Sydney.
Council is seeking a discussion on funding needed to keep up with community demand for bus shelters.
As Blacktown City’s population grows, so does the financial demands on Council to provide basic infrastructure and services.
EMPLOYERS, workers and government officials were encouraged to make workplace safety a top priority and help prevent employee deaths during a ceremony at Blacktown Showground to honour victims.
Blacktown City Council hosted an International Day of Mourning ceremony on Sunday to remember those who died, were injured or made ill from their work.
SafeWork NSW Family and Injured Workers Support and Advisory Group Co-Chair Matthew Beckhaus shared his own loss from unsafe work practices and urged workers to report safety concerns.
Deputy Mayor Chris Quilkey acknowledged all victims, including the security officer who lost his life trying to protect people at Westfield Bondi Junction on 13 April 2024.
Faraz Tahir was a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and volunteered at the Baitul Huda Mosque at Marsden Park in Blacktown City.
Cr Quilkey praised Mr Tahir’s contribution to Australia since arriving from his native Pakistan.
“Faraz was dedicated to making a positive impact in his community,” Cr Quilkey said.
“We’ll never know how many lives Faraz saved that day at Bondi Junction. But we do know he died a hero.”
A wreath was laid in honour of victims before attendees took the Memorial Walk to reflect.
The number of people killed at work increased to 195 in 2022, according
to the latest figures from Safe Work Australia.
Cr Quilkey said the figure showed more needed to be done to protect workers.
“It’s up to all of us - elected officials, government employees, employers and workers - to look after the people
we work with,” he said.
“Don’t be afraid to speak up if you think there is an unacceptable risk in your workplace.
“Starting that conversation might lead to a solution that stops someone being injured or saves a life.”
Representatives of the Construction,
1 Passes a rope through a hole (6)
4 Certain crustaceans (8)
10 Flawed (9)
11 Risk or danger (5)
12 Utter impulsively (5)
13 Carved (9)
14 A conjunction that introduces 2 alternatives (7)
16 Vagabond (4)
19 Assist (4)
21 Bravery (7)
24 Not inquisitive (9)
25 Inhabit (5)
26 Coconut meat (5)
27 Unlawfully (9)
28 Make less (8)
29 A trial portion (6) DOWN
1 They appear after rainstorms (8)
2 Adopted (a cause) (8)
3 Type of heron (5)
5 Flightless bird (7)
Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU), the Rail, Tram and Bus Union as well as the United Workers Union were among those who attended the ceremony.
The International Day of Mourning is observed in countries around the world on 28 April each year.
6 Early fall month (9)
7 Spookily (6)
8 Dishes of tomatoes and greens (6)
9 A dealer in textiles (British) (6)
15 Sleep through the winter (9)
17 Skid (8)
18 Worker (8)
20 Warm zones on earth (7)
21 Bother (6)
22 Cringed (6)
23 Micro______ = something very very small (6)
25 Belief (5)
LOCAL talk suggests that the ‘Robin Hood Inn’ ceased to exist on the eve of receiving Heritage Listing. In a shock move, the demolishers moved in overnight and took down the entire building in 1985. People familiar with the Robin Hood Inn could not believe their eyes. The building, which replaced the old Royal Hotel, had stood on the site, opposite Blacktown Station, for fifty-eight years.
The building was the work of well-known architect Cyril Christian Ruwald (1895-1959), who designed hotels for Tooth & Co. during the 1930s and 1940s. Ruwald designed the ‘Bull and Bush’ hotel, located at Baulkham Hills, along the same lines as the ‘Robin Hood.’ It is clear that Ruwald’s time spent abroad heavily influence the English style design of both buildings and is reminiscent of what has been termed Inter-War Old English style architecture.
In October 1936, Ruwald signed over the contract for the erection of the ‘Robin Hood’ to the building firm Hutcheson Bros, who were located at Hunter Street, Sydney. A newspaper announcement of the time stated the contractors were rebuilding a ‘residential hotel at Blacktown to be called the ‘Robin Hood Inn.’
The Construction and Real Estate Journal announced that it was pleasing to see hotels (like the Bull and Bush Inn and Robin Hood Inn) of such high quality erected in country centres of New South Wales. Newspapers in July 1937 also revealed that quite a fanfare surrounded the official opening performed by the president of Blacktown Shire Council, Councillor A.L. Francis. He congratulated Mrs Ada Green on the enterprise that realised a building, which was a great credit to the district, and one that marked a ‘definite step in the progress of Blacktown.’ Councillor Francis added that Mrs Green and her family, who conducted the former Royal Hotel for a decade, had many friends in the district. Responding, on behalf of his mother, Eric Green said the building design would provide an atmosphere of rest and comfort commonly found in European hotels.
Sunken gardens graced the entrance to the inn, while the foyer contained arched doorways leading into a private bar furnished with sumptuous leather chairs. Tiles adorned the floor of the public bar that had a ‘rubber inlaid counter.’ The colour scheme for these rooms, and the
private lounges and dining room on the ground floor, was ‘brown, fawn and green.’
A carpeted stairway led to an upper storey containing nine bedrooms with toilet facilities. The colour scheme on the second floor was a ‘pleasing shade of brown’ with cream coloured tiles in the toilets. Guests had the advantage of running hot and cold water in every room as well as the use of ‘delightful sun balconies.’ The cellar featured the latest lowpressure gas system for delivering beer to the bar, a refrigerating plant, as well as ‘the only revolving bottle washer of its kind in the State.’
During the 1950s, the Robin Hood Inn was the centre of controversy when the establishment was ‘black banned’ by a resident group called the Liquor Reform League. The ban was imposed because the League did not agree with Saturday trading hours or the distribution of bottle beer (by ticket) imposed by the licensee. The latter was common in other hotels at the time and created a black market in bottled beer. According to the Tribune newspaper, the situation improved at the hotel after the licensee and the resident group reached an agreement. The former agreed to having a minimum of six barrels of beer for Saturday mornings (instead of just three or four); to issue new bottle tickets to requalified patrons; to improve washing of glasses and the number of staff on taps. He also agreed to call for tenders for the beer garden and toilet in accordance with the Licensing Court instructions. The last point of the agreement stated that drinkers involved in the ban were not to receive unfair treatment.
Stories abound about the unpleasant nature of the 6 o’clock swill, a situation created after Australia introduced early closing in hotels as part of its austerity measures during the First World War. It was no different at the Robin Hood Inn. A common sight saw workers leap off the train at Blacktown and rush over to the hotel for a quick beer or two before re-boarding the train. Early closing ended in New South Wales in 1955.
Over the years, newspapers reported instances of illegal gambling on the premises, fines for the serving of liquor out of hours and fines given to desperate men who tried to pass themselves off as travellers. However, the once grand hotel still lives on in the memory of Blacktown residents.
Supplied by Blacktown & District Historical Society
ALEX SONCINI
NEW financial year which is not far away is often a time to take a closer look at money matters. It’s when we find ourselves digging through receipts, looking at old bills and trying to find places where we can save some money.
One place where people forget to look also happens to be their biggest household expense: their mortgage. And I believe the reason why people don’t look closer at their home loan is because the idea of refinancing seems too difficult, too confusing, or is perceived as probably not worth it for the effort. If you’re one of those people, it’s time to ask yourself some questions.
What’s my rate? In my experience, many people know what their monthly payments are, but they don’t actually know their interest rate. Do you? Take a look – if it starts with a “7”, you can probably do better and I’d advise shopping around.
What does the market say? Use a comparison site and find out what’s on offer. The current market for variable rate mortgages runs from around 5.95
per cent to 6.99. Three-year fixed rate mortgages range from the middle fives to well over 6 per cent. There’s a lot of difference, which means there’s solid scope for savings.
What could I save? Use the comparison sites to calculate several results. If you have a mortgage with a higher variable and if you refinance you could save thousands a year.
What must I have? Have a good repayment record with your current lender and ensure you are not currently in arrears. Also, know that if
you’re half-way through a fixed-rate loan you may be charged a break fee to leave. Make sure it’s worth it.
What are my other costs? A new lender will likely charge upfront fees, and there may be some costs to exit your mortgage. Also, if you have less than 20 percent equity in your new loan, you’ll pay lender’s mortgage insurance, which increases your costs.
Who do I see? Go to a mortgage broker or approach a lender directly. Brokers are refinancing experts who know how to streamline the process
and can access many products from various lenders than your current lender can offer.
How long will it take? What do I have to do? Both a broker and loans manager will give you a run-down of the process, the application, the documents they want you to provide, and the time it typically takes.
Is it worth it? You must answer this yourself. The total interest paid on a $600,000, 30-year mortgage at 6.99 per cent is around $100,000 more than the same mortgage at 6.29 per cent.
You have to decide it this is worth the effort of refinancing.
Got a question? Call Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the home loan market. Wealthwiz is here to help.
* Lender terms and conditions apply. The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional tax advice.
NICOLAS Diaz Ballas (Kellyville Ridge) has enjoyed a successful competition at the 2024 Gymnastics NSW State Championships, which were held in April at West HQ, Rooty Hill.
Nicolas finished as state champion in Junior U22 Trampoline, 2nd in Double Mini Trampoline (competing the next level up in the Senior Division) and 3rd in Synchro Trampoline (with partner Troy Sitkowski), again competing in the Senior Division.
Nicolas was subsequently named in the NSW team and is competing at the 2024 National Clubs Gymnastics Carnival at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, Qld from 9th -24th May.
The event will feature over 5,000 competitors, officials, and support staff from across the country. The venue has previously hosted badminton, para powerlifting, weightlifting and wrestling during the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
AHUGE crowd celebrated a fantastic day of racing and entertainment at Hawkesbury’s 19th standalone Richmond Club Hawkesbury Cup meeting.
Hawkesbury Race Club Chief Executive Officer James Heddo stated “We were very fortunate to miss a lot of the rain that fell throughout Sydney during last week and offered a complete package of high-quality racing, as well as plenty of off course entertainment, which was embraced by the local Community.
“The increases in prize money provided by Racing NSW delivered the strongest fields ever assembled at a Hawkesbury Cup meeting, with competitive racing and close finishes adding to the excitement on the day.
“Our off-course entertainment, including a hotlycontested Fashions on the Field Competition, as well as a stunning after Cup performance by Furnace and the Fundamentals, was well received by everyone in attendance.
“The Hawkesbury standalone meeting was established in 2006 and continues to go from
strength to strength. I look forward to now working with Racing NSW to look at any opportunities to further enhance this event.”
NINE local Golf Clubs have entered the 2024 Golf NSW Men’s Master Pennant competition (50 & Above), which commences its home and away format on Sunday 19th May.
Stonecutters Ridge (Section 1) and Dunheved (Section 2) will both compete in Division 1, Springwood (Section 1), Twin Creeks (Section 2), Glenmore Heritage Valley (Section 3) and Penrith (Section 3) will all compete in Division 2, whilst Richmond, Leonay and Wallacia will all compete in Section 4 of Division 3.
In local home games in Round 1, Stonecutters will host Kogarah (12 noon), Springwood will host Muirfield (11.30am), Glenmore will host Penrith (10.40am), Richmond will host Kareela (11am) and Leonay
April,
prize on the day.
2BBB: Peter McFarlane, Steve Malesevic (Leonay), Runners-
up: Gary Denny, Andrew Burns (Leonay); 2BBB Medley: Kerry Hill, Carol Field (Penrith), Runnersup: Elaine Williams, Di Bowen (Dunheved); Men’s A Grade: Paul Fairbrother (Dunheved), 2nd Frank Jones (Wallacia), 3rd Mike Sherwood (Springwood); Men’s B Grade: Drew Fyfe (Stonecutters Ridge), 2nd William Leydecker (Glenmore Heritage Valley), 3rd Richard Morris (Dunheved), Men’s C Grade Brian Tormay (Leonay), 2nd Ross Chant (Wallacia), 3rd Rodney Dillworth (Richmond); Women’s A Grade: Julie Sutcliffe (Leonay), 2nd Jane Mackie (Richmond); Women’s B Grade: Christine Hoppe (Wallacia), 2nd Maxine McNally (Leonay).
Dunheved (Paul Fairbrother, Richard Morris, Barry Rockliffe, Elaine Williams) won the Team event on 153 points, ahead of Leonay 149, Wallacia 145, Glenmore 145, Penrith 143, Springwood 142, Stonecutters 140 and Richmond 138.
THE city of Blacktown lost its Number One advocate on the weekend and Blacktown City FC lost one of its great supporters. The passing of Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM is a tragic loss for his family and the city he passionately championed for recognition and support for its citizens. A true Leader for his City!
Mayor Bleasdale was a fervent football man and greatly assisted the likes of West Sydney Wanderers, BDSFA and of course Blacktown City FC. He welcomed me to the Blacktown football world when I joined Blacktown City in 2021 and was on the field at Comm Bank Stadium to help raise the 2022 Championship trophy. He then led the way for his Council to partner Blacktown City FC in the promotion of the city.
His passion for all things Blacktown and that infectious smile and welcoming nature will be sorely missed but not forgotten. The Blacktown City FC Board, coaches, players and fans all salute a giant of a man and paid homage to him at the home game on Saturday night against Spirit with a tribute and a minute of silence. Thankfully, the team did the right thing and made sure they secured a 3-1 win in his honour.
Blacktown City FC have had their share of difficulties in the past few weeks but in true Blacktown spirit have hung tough under the leadership of Mark Crittenden. Suspensions to Captain Mario Shabow and Martin Fernandez, as well as injuries, in particular the latest to ace defender Lachlan Campbell, have put the pressure on Blacktown to continue its winning ways.
A real positive has been the play of Mitch Mallia in the last few weeks and the emergence from injury for Danny Choi. “Mitch has been steadily gaining his game back after missing the entire 2023 season,” said Coach Crittenden. “The same applies to Danny Choi who also missed last year with an ACL injury. If both can continue to find their legs and confidence, we will be in a solid position for the second half of the season,” he added.
Approaching the halfway mark of the 2024 season, the leaderboard is full of the usual culprits with Rockdale (9-2-2), Apia (9-1-3), Marconi ((9-13) and Sydney United ( 8-2-3) in the top five places. Despite dropping the last two matches, West Sydney Wanderers top the table with ten wins and three losses. Blacktown is currently in sixth spot with a 7-4-2 record and play Marconi this Sunday at home in a critical match.
Blacktown City Women have continued to show improvement. Their two narrow losses to League leaders Hills United were tough 1-0 encounters. Hills have yet to lose a game whilst Blacktown had only the two losses before last week losing to Bankstown, 3-1. Blacktown Women’s coach
Michael Hawthorne is successfully guiding his team in only the third season for the Blacktown Women. “We played the top side, Hills, twice in three weeks and the signs of our ability to take it right up to them shows our determination and confidence is growing,” said Coach Hawthorne!
Blacktown City Women are back at Landen Stadium on Sunday, May 26th when they host Camden. Blacktown City Men will have two more weeks at home commencing with Marconi this Sunday, the 12th of May. Game time is 3pm.
Home Game - Blacktown City Men vs Marconi–Sunday, May 12th, 3pm, Landen Stadium, 5 Quinn Avenue, Seven Hills
Home Game - Blacktown City Men vs vs Hills – Saturday, May 18th, 5pm, Landen Stadium, 5 Quinn Avenue, Seven Hills
Home Game - Blacktown City Women Vs Camden – Sunday, May 26th, 4pm, Landen Stadium, 5 Quinn Avenue, Seven Hills
Home Game - Blacktown City Men vs St George FC – Sunday, June 2nd, 3pm, Landen Stadium, 5 Quinn Avenue, Seven Hills
Go Blacktown City!
BY NOEL ROWSELL
ROUND 3 of the 2024 mibike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), presented by Motul, was held at QLD Raceway over the 2628th April and featured a number of riders from Sydney’s western suburbs.
In the Oceania Junior Cup (OJC), Elijah Andrew (Marayong) finished 7th overall for the weekend, with finishes of 6th, 8th and 10th across the three races respectively. Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) finished 13th (14th, 14th, 11th) and Zac Russo (Sackville North) 14th (15th, 15th, 12th).
Elijah said “OJC Round 2 is done. Not the best race weekend, after starting strong in Q1 in P4, we slipped down to P6 in Q2. Race 1 P6, Race 2 P8, Race 3 declared a Wet track, right as we were to go out to the grid. As it had stopped raining, we gambled on running with slick tyres, one of only three riders to do so.
“Unfortunately, the track didn’t dry out in time and was extremely sketchy on dry tyres. I managed to stay upright and bring it home in 10th place.”
In Michelin Supersport, Jake Favelle (Cattai) finished 8th (8th, 10th); Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) finished 12th (4th, NC); Jonathan (JJ) Nahlous (Glenwood) finished 13th (DNF, 5th).
JJ’s father Maurice said “Last weekend didn’t go to plan for us. JJ qualified in P7 on the grid, as we couldn’t overcome a braking problem we were having. Race 1 started great, with JJ up to P3 after a great start, but entering into T6 that came to an end as the front tyre washed out and JJ crashed out of P3.
A frantic repair and the bike was ready for race 2. Lights out and a big crash into T1 meant JJ had to check up to stay clear of the carnage and he dropped into P12. As the laps counted down, he made his way through the field to eventually finish in P5. A crash on the exit of T6 brought out the red flag,
which turned out to be a blessing as when JJ pulled into the technical area after the race, we saw a hole in the radiator and water pouring out it.
“A difficult weekend for sure, but many valuable lessons were learned. We left Queensland Raceway still leading the championship with a 27 point lead. Now we have a break to repair the bikes and prepare for Round 4 at Morgan Park (Qld).”
In Race and Road Supersport 300, William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise) finished 14th for the weekend, with finishes of 13th, 14th and 12th.
The next round of the ASBK will be held at Morgan Park, QLD over 12-14th July.
