Western News 11 November 2020 by Nepean News

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Friday, 11 December 2020

ISSUE 124

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Bleed4Blue

Members of the NSW Police Force, friends and family are rolling up their sleeves to donate blood as part of the third annual ‘Bleed4Blue’ blood drive. See page 8 for full story.

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

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Winners announced for 2020 Blacktown City Art Prize

estern Sydney artist Linda Brescia has taken out the top award at the 2020 Blacktown City Art Prize for her portrait of American patron of the arts Peggy Guggenheim. The winning piece, an acrylic on canvas artwork titled Peggy, was painted by Ms Brescia on the day submissions closed, having decided only the day before to enter the prestigious prize. Peggy was chosen from 110 finalists and comes with a prize of $15,000. Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, congratulated Ms Brescia on her winning artwork, which will be acquired for the Blacktown City Art Collection. “Now in its 25th year, the Blacktown City Art Prize is a Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, with the winner of the 2020 Blacktown City major cultural event in Western Art Prize, Western Sydney artist Linda Brescia, and her artwork ‘Peggy’, a portrait of American patron of the arts and socialite Peggy Guggenheim. Sydney,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “There were a record number of pieces submitted this year – almost Brescia, who lives in Abbotsbury, Mr Golding is a Kamilaroi/ 900 – and all the finalists selected received the news that her good friend Gamilaraay man from northwest were incredibly impressive. and fellow artist Elaine Campaner NSW, who was born and raised in “Congratulations to Linda Brescia had passed away. Sydney. for winning the 2020 Blacktown City “Elaine then became part of the From Home to Home is a superhero Art Prize for her striking portrait portrait. The painting in Peggy’s cape, which serves as a self-portrait of the late Peggy Guggenheim, an earring reflects one of Elaine’s of Mr Golding, that depicts visual incredibly important patron of the artworks – Travelling North representations of memory, lived arts. (inclement), 2009’,” Ms Brescia said. experiences, connections to Country “I encourage Blacktown City “If Peggy knew Elaine I’d like to and superpower. residents, visitors, and art lovers alike think she would have supported her.” “I produce small paintings within to view Peggy – and all our finalist The judging panel of Kyra Kum- the cape from other materials such as artworks – in person at the BCAP Sing, Pedro de Almeida, and Cath acrylics, sequins and satin fabrics that exhibition now open at the Leo Kelly Barcan faced the difficult task of reference my memories of living in Blacktown Arts Centre.” selecting the final artworks for urban environments and travelling to Ms Brescia, who has previously the exhibition, whittling the 897 and from Country,” Mr Golding said. been a finalist multiple times in the entries from 660 artists down to 110 “Through the visual motif of BCAP, said she was at first speechless finalists. the superhero cape, I present an to hear she had won, and then elated. The three judges commented that empowering representation of culture, “Winning the Blacktown City Ms Brescia’s winning artwork was identity and lived experiences in both Art Prize offers much appreciated an evocative, fierce portrait of a urban and rural spaces.” encouragement and support,” Ms historical feminist icon which was a Highly Commended in the Brescia said. fragment of a sophisticated practice. Aboriginal Artist Prize is St Peters“This has been a hard year for Highly Commended for the based artist Jason Wing for Captain everyone. I hadn’t exhibited work in Blacktown City Art Prize is Broken James Crook (Unmasked), a digital a gallery all year and thought I should Hill artist Asma D. Mather for the print and hand-painted silk screen make an effort to be in at least one copperplate etching From what the with UV light-sensitive ink. exhibition. River knows (a contemplation) and The Local Artist Prize has been “Deciding to enter the prize the Lane Cove artist Debbey Watson for awarded to Seven Hills resident day before entries were due, Peggy the ceramic artwork Ruminations II. Graham Cheney for his acrylic on Guggenheim, that great supporter The winner of the Aboriginal Artist canvas artwork Auntie Rita Wright. of artists and the arts, would be the Prize is Little Bay resident Dennis Auntie Rita Wright is an Aboriginal subject.” Golding for his piece From Home to leader, a survivor of the Stolen While painting with a deadline on Home, made with velvet, satin fabric, Generation, and a resident of Shalvey, the day submissions were due, Ms acrylic and sequins. in Blacktown City.

Mr Cheney also worked with Auntie Rita and students from Kellyville High School, where he teaches, on the prize-winning feature film ‘Barrangal Skin’, which recounts the stories of Auntie Rita and others to help raise awareness of the Stolen Generation. “I’ve been creating art that focuses on the stories and histories of people from Sydney’s greater west for a long time, so winning the Local Artist Prize is really important to me,” Mr Cheney said. “My painting is a portrait for Auntie Rita Wright, an Aboriginal leader who has spent her life sharing her own tragic experiences and helping create dialogue between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in western Sydney.” Highly Commended in the Local Artist Prize is Blacktown resident Jay Wassell for Recycled Memories, using oil paint on 100 Instax Polaroid photos. Both the Aboriginal Artist Prize and the Local Artist Prize comes with a prize of $2000. The winning artworks are now on display at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre until 28 January, 2021, as part of the Blacktown City Art Prize exhibition. All 110 finalist artworks from across Australia are featured in the exhibition, which is free to attend. These pieces are all eligible for the People’s Choice Award, and the public is invited to vote for their favourite work in the exhibition. Only one vote per person will be counted, and voting can be done at the exhibition or online at https:// blacktownarts.com.au/bcap/finalists/. Prizes awarded: Blacktown City Art Prize: $15,000 Aboriginal Artist Prize: $2,000 Local Artist Prize: $2,000 People’s Choice Prize: $1,000 Artworks in the exhibition are available to buy in person at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre or online via the Blacktown Arts website for the duration of the exhibition. Visit the online store at www. blacktownarts.com.au/bcap/shop/. For further information on the Blacktown City Art Prize, visit blacktownarts.com.au/bcap.

Academy announces Elite Travel Community Citizen of the Year Throughout 2020 the Western Sydney Academy of Sport, in collaboration with our business partner Elite Travel, has been taking nominations for the Community Citizen of the Year award. The award recognises the contribution, or special act of volunteers, athletes, and other individuals within the Academy family. They have recognised a number of outstanding nominations this year including Digital Realty Netball Head Coach Heather Smith, Softball Head Coach Richard Gatt, Netball Umpire Makayla Hickson and Netball Manager Nikki

Welsford however it was the Softball Program Manager Jo Beach who was named the Elite Travel Community Citizen of the Year. Jo has been with the Academy since 2015 and continually gives up her own time for the benefit of our athletes. She is a fantastic leader, encourages all and supports their athletes to achieve excellence at every level of competition. This award has been made possible as a result of the support offered by Elite Travel who have kindly sponsored the prize of a domestic getaway for two including flights and accommodation on the Gold Coast!

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housands of brightly coloured woollen squares will adorn Blacktown City throughout summer to raise awareness of domestic and family violence. The ‘Knit bombing’ installations highlight the issue of family and domestic violence as part of the UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a campaign to challenge violence against women and girls. The annual international campaign began on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ran until 10 December, Human Rights Day. The global theme for 2020 is ‘Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect!’. Thousands of squares were knitted during monthly ‘yarn-in’ sessions – with extensive involvement from the Max Webber Knitting Group – with more than 60 women also registering to knit from home. The vibrant pieces have been installed around Blacktown’s city centre, including in the Village Green, at the entrance to Max Webber Library and Council’s Civic Centre, in Bowman Hall, along Flushcombe Road, and at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, and at Dawson Mall in Mount Druitt. Pillars, bench seats, bicycles, light

poles, trees, and even a dog kennel have been wrapped with some of the thousands of squares collected for the project. 2020 is the second year Blacktown City has been ‘knit bombed’ as part of the campaign, spearheaded by Council’s Women’s Advisory Committee under the stewardship of Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths. Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said the ‘knit bombing’ was part of Council’s longstanding commitment to raising awareness of domestic and family violence. “Domestic and family violence is one of the single greatest issues confronting our society, and we know it can affect anyone,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

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“At Blacktown City Council we condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms. “Blacktown City was the first Council in NSW to make paid domestic violence leave available to our staff as part of Council’s Family and Domestic Violence Policy. “I pay tribute to the women who have come together over the last few months to create this wonderful display under the stewardship of Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths.” Cr Griffiths said the colourful campaign was an eye-catching way to draw attention to a very serious issue. “In 2016, approximately 17 per cent of Australian women – 1.6 million – had experienced violence by a partner since the age of 15,” Cr Griffiths said.

“And in the 2 years to June, in NSW alone there were more than 62,000 reported incidents of domestic assault. “Blacktown City accounted for almost 4,500 of these incidents – that is just over 42 each week. “This is a tragedy, and we will not stand idly by. “I thank all the women who knitted these beautiful squares which, sewn together and hung around our City, send an important message to all who live, work, and visit our great City.” The ‘knit bombing’ installation will be officially launched on 3 December, 2020, in the Village Green. The woollen squares will eventually be sewn into blankets which will be distributed to local charities. Council has also partnered with the Outer West Domestic Violence Network for the ‘Orange the World’ campaign, encouraging Blacktown City residents to decorate their home or letterbox in orange to say no to violence against women and girls. A grant of $25,000 has also been approved by Council for the WASH House in Mount Druitt. The funding will deliver ‘Courageous Conversations’ training on gender equity and holding discussions about domestic violence in families and workplaces.

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

‘Knit bombing’ in Blacktown City raises awareness

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

Western News Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sports Journalist: Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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From the Editor’s Desk By KeRRIE DAVIES

ho can believe that we are in December already? Every year it seems that Christmas rolls around quicker than it did the year before and once again we are just weeks away from the big day. Which brings us to thinking about our shopping list, who we need to buy for, how much to spend, and can we think of anything more exciting or original than socks or hankies? There’s another thing to think about this year while wondering if Nan has used all the bath soaps and perfumes she got last year, and that is that it is important to shop local. Whilst there are many great positives in running your own business, being in small business can be a tough gig at times. The hours are often horrendous and there’s not much to fall back on for income during quiet times. And while I don’t need to remind you how horrendous 2020 has been for small business, many have already been taking a hit over the last few years prior to the pandemic - from online traders taking a chunk of the market share. Online traders can get around an array of costs, such as shop rent and employing staff. It is more important than ever to support our local small businesses by buying locally. Blacktown Local Government businesses are great places to shop; it is nice to get some fresh air, bump in to people you know, and the small business owners are friendly and happy to help. By shopping locally you are doing your bit to ensure our region maintains a large variety of shops offering goods, and it also helps stimulate local employment. Nobody wants a ghost town of closed shops with everyone having to drive or catch public transport to work in other areas that are thriving - but that’s the picture that anywhere faces if their local community doesn’t get behind them and support them. Our community is one of the best in the nation when it comes to supporting others, so let’s get behind our small businesses more than ever this year and keep them thriving. Shop local Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

Empowering people with disability

eople with disability will receive better and more reliable support as part of the NSW Government’s plan to bolster the rapidly growing disability support sector and promote more inclusive and accessible communities. Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said International Day of People with Disability is an opportunity to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability. “The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is transforming the way people with disability are supported and cared for and today is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of people, their carers and the workforce,” Mr Ward said. “But the reality is not everyone is eligible to access the NDIS, which is why our Government has reinforced its commitment to provide important advocacy and inclusion services for all people with disability living in NSW.” The 2020-21 NSW Budget included a $3.5 billion investment in the NDIS, and more than $112.5 million over the next four years for disability advocacy and inclusion services, including the new Disability Advocacy Futures Program.

An additional $17 million has been committed to boost jobs in the rapidly growing disability support sector, so that service providers can attract and upskill staff. Minister Ward also announced changes to Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAP) today, governing how NSW Government agencies and Councils break down barriers and create more inclusive and accessible communities. Robust new guidelines will hold government accountable for creating real change in line with the review of the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014. “Every Government agency and Council in NSW has a DIAP, and these new guidelines will drive changes that enable people with disability to enjoy more opportunities to participate in the community,” Mr Ward said.

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NSW Police roll-up their sleeves for third annual ‘Bleed4Blue’ blood drive

embers of the NSW Police Force, friends and family are rolling up their sleeves to donate blood as part of the third annual ‘Bleed4Blue’ blood drive. Bleed4Blue 2020, a three-month law enforcementfocused blood drive, was officially launched by NSW Police Force Commissioner Michael Fuller APM and Det Sgt Breda at the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Town Hall Donor Centre, on Tuesday 1 December 2020. The campaign is run throughout the summer months in partnership with the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood and was established following the stabbing of Detective Sergeant John Breda on Australia Day 2018. Det Sgt John Breda lost almost 12 litres of blood as the medical team worked to save his life after he was stabbed during a police operation at Maroubra. It took more than 100 bags of blood to keep him alive, including 48 bags in one six-hour surgery. Commissioner Fuller said John’s fight for life

emphasised – particularly within the NSW Police Force – the importance of regularly donating blood. “It is the nature of our work that we frequently attend situations where people need blood, but that day really brought it home to our police family just how vital blood supply is,” Commissioner Fuller said. “One of our own survived due to the generosity of those who donated, and Bleed4Blue is our chance to show our appreciation and ensure blood supplies are there for someone else’s loved one. “During last year’s campaign, we – along with our law-enforcement colleagues from across Australia – donated some 4600 litres of blood, which helped save 12,000 lives. “We hope that with help of the community even more people will benefit from this year’s Bleed4Blue, so if you are in a position to give blood or plasma, please donate too,” Commissioner Fuller said. Since its inception, the Bleed4Blue campaign has generated more than 8600 blood donations and helped save at least 25,000 lives. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s Steven Eldridge

said while the organisation was thrilled with the response to Lifeblood’s recent appeal, the need for blood is ongoing. “Historically, we see a drop in the number of people donating over long weekends or public holidays, and donations are needed every day this December,” Mr Eldridge said. “Bleed 4 Blue is one of the nation’s largest blood drives, and we are fortunate to have the support of NSW Police to help boost blood supplies. “The patients this challenge supports includes people undergoing treatment for cancer, newborns, those undergoing emergency surgery, those involved in road accidents and so many more.” The ‘Bleed4Blue’ campaign runs until the end of February 2021 and will again challenge police from across Australia to take part to see which state or territory can donate the most blood. The NSW Police Force is the defending champion, donating almost 1100 bags of blood during last year’s challenge. For more information on donating visit www.donateblood.com.au/bleed-4-blue.

Nobel Prize a reminder to get tested for hepatitis C

estmead Hospital liver physician Professor Jacob George extends his congratulations to the winners of the 2020 Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology for saving millions of lives through the discovery of the hepatitis C virus. British scientist Michael Houghton and US researchers Harvey Alter and Charles Rice received the world’s most prestigious award for medicine last week in recognition of their work over several decades to identify the mysterious infection that was making people sick after receiving a blood transfusion. There are still 70 million people living with hepatitis C today and it claims around 400,000 lives each year. Australia is on track to completely eliminate hepatitis C by 2030. “This achievement is only possible thanks to the remarkable work of these researchers over many decades to identify the mysterious and deadly illness. It is difficult to overestimate their legacy for global health,” Prof George said. “Hepatitis C is no longer a death sentence. With the medicines available today we can cure more than 95 per cent of cases and greatly improve people’s quality of life. Most

Americans Harvey Alter and Charles Rice together with Briton Michael Houghton won the 2020 Nobel Medicine Prize for the discovery of the hepatitis C virus. Photo: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP via Getty Images

people can be cured with 12 weeks with no injections and minimal side effects.” More than 24,000 people have been cured of hepatitis C in NSW since new treatments became available in 2016. It is estimated that 58,000 people across the state are yet to seek treatment. The symptoms of hepatitis C include: • Tiredness, lethargy • Loss of appetite • Nausea • Abdominal pain

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

• Rarely dark urine and pale stools These symptoms may pass after a few days or weeks, but the virus can remain active for many years and cause serious and potentially fatal liver damage. Hepatitis C is spread through blood to blood contact. Those at risk include anyone who has ever injected drugs, been in prison, received a drug transfusion in Australia before February 1990, or were born in or received medical treatment in a region with high prevalence of hepatitis C, including in Asia and the Middle East. If you think you may be at risk, speak to your GP for a free test or email WSLHD-HepatologyService@ health.nsw.gov.au. For more information see the NSW Health website.

Professor Jacob George is urging the community to get tested for hepatitis C.

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ydney Electrical Contractors is proud to announce that they have been recognised for a second year in a row at the Blacktown Local Business Awards as winners in the category of Services and Trades. Held on the 22nd September 2020, the Local Business Awards acknowledges outstanding local businesses that go above and beyond – who provide quality work, products and an exceptional customer service experience. Up against many exceptional businesses, Sydney Electrical Contractors were also awarded the overall Gold Award for “Business of the Year for 2020” which is a testament to the company’s great leadership and hard-working team. This major achievement has left the entire team at Sydney Electrical Contractors feeling incredibly happy, humbled and motivated to continue striving for excellence. Even though 2020 has been a tough year for all and has put many businesses in difficult situations, Managing Director Robert Theodoridis during his acceptance speech, described how determined the company was to make this a successful one. “It’s truly a blessing to win this award with the year we have all had. We need to be resilient

for-profit organisations, donate on a regular basis and attend regular charity functions and events. The ultimate goal of Sydney Electrical Contractors is to continue to be Industry Leaders and be known for their high-quality workmanship within the industry and greater community. The company believes that with this continued excellence in service that the growth of the company will continue with a vision to expand into Canberra, Victoria and Queensland in the near future.

to get through these times. If you get knocked down, you get up and keep fighting. If you can get through a year like this, you can do anything”. Sydney Electrical Contractors have truly demonstrated their constant commitment to top class and quality services throughout 2020, being one of the preferred electrical contractors Sydney wide and truly worthy winners of these awards. Managing Director Robert Theodoridis explains, “we are a company who never settles for complacency and strive to excel

even further every year. Our aim was to strive to be leaders in our Industry and set the standard of how Small Electrical Businesses need to operate to be successful. Many business owners have contacted us to help them with their business support needs especially throughout this exceedingly difficult time we have all experienced in 2020.” Sydney Electrical Contractors makes it their mission to give back to the local community. The company is also associated with many non-

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

Sydney Electrical Contractors Win Business of the Year 2020

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

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Dob in drunk, drugged and dangerous drivers

SW Police and Crime Stoppers NSW are calling on road users to report drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving on roads across the state as part of a new safety campaign. Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Crime Stoppers was joined by Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, and Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, to launch the Four Ds (drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving) campaign on Tuesday 1 December 2020. The campaign is focused on enlisting the community’s help to crack down on the Four Ds to prevent crashes and keep loved ones safe. Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, said dangerous driving is unacceptable and the NSW Government is determined to highlight the concerning behaviour. “This Government is committed to community safety and we know that the 4Ds – drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving are a significant contributor to deaths on our roads. The people of NSW have been through enough this year, we want to see everyone enjoy the Christmas and New Year periods with family without tragedy or chaos,” Mr Elliott said. “This behaviour is deplorable and we’re determined to help put a stop to it once and for all. The NSW Police Force and Crime Stoppers initiative reminds us all that we each contribute to safety on our roads.” 280 people have died on NSW roads so far this year (from 1 January 2020 to 26 November 2020), with speed a factor in 28 percent of cases, drugs a factor in 20 percent, 16 percent alcohol-related. Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander

Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb said more people will be using NSW roads in coming weeks with borders reopening and the Christmas holidays period approaching. “Keeping the public safe is our top priority. We’re asking for you to help us protect yourselves, loved ones and the community on NSW roads. If you see or know anyone who is drink, drug, dangerous or distracted driving, please report it to Crime Stoppers and we will investigate,” said Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb. “Our message to motorists breaking the law is clear: someone is watching you now and you will get caught,” said Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb. Assistant Commissioner Webb has highlighted some ways road users can report the Four Ds without jeopardising their own safety or breaking the law: Use a passenger to record the time of the incident and the registration of the driver’s vehicle. If possible, keep dashcam vision of the incident and provide it to Crime Stoppers or police.

May the peace and goodwill of Christmas be upon you and your family. Merry Christmas.

Stephen Bali MP Member for Blacktown Phone: 9671 5222 Shop 3063, Westpoint Shopping Centre, Blacktown Email: blacktown@parliament.nsw.gov.au

If it’s an emergency – where there is a threat to life or someone’s safety – please call Triple Zero (000) through a passenger, hands-free, or pull over somewhere safe. If it’s not an emergency, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. The CEO of Crime Stoppers NSW Peter Price AM said he hopes the community’s involvement will help improve safety and accountability on NSW roads. “Never before have we asked the community to report these crimes and Crime Stoppers NSW is the first, not only in Australia, but around the world, to initiate this campaign,” said Crime Stoppers NSW CEO, Peter Price AM, said. “This is one of the most important campaigns we have ever embarked upon. These traffic issues are an offence and these offences often lead to innocent people being injured or killed which is absolutely devastating for their families,” Mr Price said. “We are counting on the community’s strong relationship with us to contact Crime Stoppers and make our roads safer for everyone,” he said. Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the community’s support could help to save lives. “Everyone has the right to get home safely to their loved ones at night. Reporting dangerous behaviour on our roads could be the difference between life and death.” “We’ve already seen far too many people killed and seriously injured in road trauma this year. We need everyone in the community to help us put a stop to this tragedy and trauma.”

Prue Car MP “ Member for Londonderry

A Very Merry Christmas to you and your family. All the best for 2021 and enjoy the holiday season!

“

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. December 2020

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he newest intake of management interns started six months early in order to help with the COVID-19 response in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD). The four new interns were welcomed to the Public Health Unit on the Cumberland campus in September for a crash course in how the district runs testing and tracing, as well as planning ahead to maintain a healthier and COVIDfree Western Sydney. Some made an even earlier start – Jeremy Asuit is a nurse who was working in Western Sydney’s pop-up testing clinics, and Sree Brahmapuram was assisting with drive-through clinics in Sydney’s inner west as part of his role in health administration at Concord Hospital. The two are joined by Kira Hofer and Tamika Baloch as the latest inductees into the WSLHD Management Graduate Program; a two-year internship across the district while obtaining a Masters of either Health Service Management or Health Information Management through the University of Tasmania. Tamika studied international relations due to her love of languages, and it was an internship working in

New health management interns (from left) Sree Brahmapuram, Kira Hofer, Jeremy Asuit and Tamika Baloch.

food security in India that solidified her interest in public health. “I came back to Australia determined to work in medical administration but then landed this opportunity instead,” Tamika said. “I’m looking forward to working with people who make a real difference in the community and seeing where that leads me.” Sree studied medical science and it was his experience in medical administration this year showed him the importance of effective

management. “When COVID-19 hit it took really great management to get on top of it quickly and reallocate all the resources accurately to make sure we could test thousands of people,” Sree said. Jeremy saw the similar impact of people in WSLHD including Integrated and Community Health chronic care manager Joanne Medlin and fellow management intern John Dillon. “They really encouraged me to go for this opportunity,” Jeremy said. “This will give me unique exposure

”

to different tasks and really experienced people in those leadership roles.” Kira studied public health promotion and policy, and worked for the Children’s Hospital at Westmead before securing this internship. “I’ve always had a passion for health, I just didn’t necessarily know what aspect I wanted to specialise in,” Kira said. “It’s very appealing to do so many different placements and see what sticks.” Health management graduate Leila Brenna, who started her placement earlier this year, said the experience so far had given her great understanding of a wide range of portfolios. “The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the need for managers to be flexible and adaptable to respond to the dynamic needs of staff, patients and the community,” Leila said. “The health management graduate program provides a unique opportunity to develop the skill set required for successful future health managers.” The new interns will continue with the Public Health Unit until February and then begin their usual three-tosix month rotation between different departments across the district.

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

Health management interns get a head start on COVID-19

May the blessings of Christmas fill your heart and home with joy now and throughout 2021. Merry Christmas to all!

”

Kevin

Conolly MP

State Member for Riverstone Phone: (02) 8883 3499 Fax: (02) 8883 3355 Mail: P.O. Box 65, Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768 Email: riverstone@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Kevin Conolly MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

WESTERN HISTORY

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Gold Migration

corresponding with the proportion and value of his discovery. Edward then convinced the people of Sydney that there was payable gold just outside ife was hard for most of Australia’s early Bathurst. This discovery of gold sent a shock wave settlers who struggled to find fertile land, through the colony and within a month over 300 the hot dry climate made farming difficult prospectors were in the area looking for gold that for the districts and they found that the seasons resulted in a gold rush. He then began a publicity were different from Britain with most of the plants campaign generating discussion in the region with unfamiliar to everyone but the first nation people. the naming of the part of the creek that yielded the Shepherds searching for grazing lands travelled gold as “Fitzroy Bar” after the Governor and the westwards over the Blue Mountains and moved area “Ophir” after the biblical city of gold. It was a onto land that revealed reefs of gold-bearing quartz. number of decades before John Lister and the Tom An ex-convict and shepherd named McGregor brothers received formal recognition of their part found many pieces of gold in the Wellington region in the discovery, finally being acknowledged by a and chipped parts off to take to Sydney where it was select committee of the NSW Legislative Assembly displayed in jewellery shop windows. However, in 1890. William Tom wrote an account of meeting it wasn’t until the 1840s that gold exploration Hargraves and the work the men undertook in was seriously discussed by geologists such as the prospecting for gold but Edward was feted as a hero Reverend William Branwhite Clarke, an Anglican and rewarded by the Government with £10,000 and clergyman and geologist who was Principal at the an annual pension of £250 and given the position of King’s School at Parramatta and later the Rector Commissioner of Crown Lands for the gold districts. at St Thomas’ in North Sydney. His passion was He received many valuable gifts and was the subject geology and in 1841 while exploring the Blue of many triumphant portraits. Many people were  Edward Hargreaves Mountains for fossils he examined granite slabs near courtesy of Australian Museum now leaving for the gold fields and many businesses Hartley where he discovered particles of gold. Rev. found it hard to keep operating. People began to act Clarke wrote that the country would be found abundantly rich in gold irrationally with “gold fever” spending all their savings and abandoning and continued to collect specimens. In 1844 he informed Governor their families to get to the fields. Even men from Penrith and St Marys Gipps of his finds and later claimed that the Governor directed him to went to try their luck but most came home with empty pockets. But the ”hide it or we will all have our throats cut”. The ruling elite feared smart ones saw the benefit of all those prospectors travelling the Great that a predominantly convict population striking it rich would lead to Western Road, especially in our district. Dwelling houses and grog greater crimes and result in a convict rebellion brought on by greed. shops as well as shops that sold merchandise that would be needed by Edward Hammond Hargraves after returning unsuccessfully from the the miners were making a good living by the “comings & goings” over Californian goldfields to Australia decided to travel west to Wellington the Blue Mountains to the gold fields. Ships crews deserted leaving in search of Australian gold during the summer of 1851. Edward was vessels stranded in port, shepherds left their flocks and Government born at Gosport, England, the son of Lieutenant John Edward Hargraves officials, clerks, teachers and policemen left their jobs in the excitement. and his wife Elizabeth. He was a shrewd gold promoter credited with Mining towns grew overnight, and immigrant ships brought thousands discovering the first payable goldfields near Bathurst. Visiting an inn of people keen to try their luck at the diggings. The newcomers like the at Guyong owned by the Lister family he changed his travel plans and migrants before them endured appalling conditions under unscrupulous relied upon local knowledge of the area. With the son of the innkeeper shipowners. While people migrated from all over the world during the John Lister and the Tom brothers William and James he started panning gold rush, most came from Scotland and England followed by a large for gold at Lewis Ponds Creek. He taught the young men how to make number of Chinese. In time people came to realise that gold was not a Californian cradle that he had seen on the Californian goldfields. This the bonanza they anticipated, and they began to filter back into cities wooden contraption could be rocked from side to side so that the heavy and towns looking for work and places to live. They noticed that large gold particles were retained when the lighter gravel was sifted through. areas of land were not being used and wanted the chance to establish In February 1851 they discovered 4oz of gold flecks in the Lewis Ponds farms like the squatters had done before them. With an increased Creek. His “assistants” John, William and James continued working population came further demand for land, food, clothes and buildings their cradle and found four ounces of gold further downstream from and the Australian economy grew to accommodate these needs. Another Edward’s first find, including a two-ounce nugget that William Tom impact of this large influx of migrants was that ideas of the rights of the noticed in a rock crevice. Edward purchased the nuggets and took individual, democracy and egalitarianism were imported from Europe the gold through the district, finding gold on Summer Hill Creek and and the United States. Up until the 1850s only landowners and squatters the Turon and Macquarie rivers, he then travelled to Sydney to the had the right to vote. People began to demand one vote for one man and Colonial Secretary of the colony Mr E Deas Thomson announcing soon women demanded the right to vote. that it was he who had discovered payable gold in the district and his Sources: Migrationheritage.nsw.gov.au, Sydney Mail & NSW Advertiser, reward for finding gold. It was agreed that Edward should be rewarded, State Library of NSW, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Trove. By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

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new team of allied health staff are working closely with Westmead and Blacktown hospital’s emergency departments to prevent hospital admissions and help get patients home sooner. The six-month pilot project is called Allied Health Rapid Assessment, Intervention and Discharge – Emergency Department (RAIDED), and is designed to improve the patient experience by extending the hours of allied health staff across our emergency departments. The project will specifically assist chronic and complex care patients who have a variety of health issues that require ongoing management and care. The staff will work with teams to: • Identify vulnerable or recurrent patients who present to the emergency departments • Provide rapid assessment, intervention and discharge plans in collaboration with other health professionals • Initiate early referrals to relevant community health agencies once discharged from hospital, and • Build stronger relationships with our community stakeholders in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) The RAID-ED team will also collaborate with the Hospital in the Home (HITH) clinicians to ensure high-risk patients who have been discharged from hospital receive timely follow-up care at home.

WSLHD Allied Health director Jacquie Dominish with physiotherapists Emma Christmas and Mitch Ellis.

WSLHD Allied Health director Jacqueline Dominish said the project focuses on the patients’ needs and experiences. “Allied Health staff will work longer hours in the emergency departments across seven days to help patients with complex and multiple medical and social issues and provide support to the medical, nursing, and Hospital in the Home teams,” Jacqueline said. “The allied staff are looking forward to the pilot and immersing themselves in the fast paced emergency environment, utilising their exceptional clinical and professional skills in partnership with medicine and nursing staff to add value to patient experience, prevent unnecessary admissions, and fast-track inpatient stays where required by commencing intervention within the emergency

department.” Senior physiotherapist Emma Christmas is one of the allied health staff who will be working closely with the ED staff to help create safe and earlier discharges for some patients.

“I’m looking forward with helping the RAID-ED project get off the ground running,” Emma said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to be involved in a project of this size and which emphasises the important role of allied health professionals.” For further information about the RAID-ED project, contact acting Allied Health workforce manager Chrissan Segaram at Chrissan. Segaram@health.nsw.gov.au. WSLHD Allied Health services recently won a WSLHD 20202 Quality Award for the Flipping COVID Facedown project in the Education and Training category. Flipping COVID Facedown was a joint project between Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals physiotherapy departments to provide rapid training on proning, or lying patients facedown – a helpful but difficult procedure in an intensive care setting.

WSLHD Allied Health director Jacquie Dominish with members of the RAID-ED project.

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Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

Allied health stars lead emergency project to avoid hospital admissions

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

Western News

Top money saving tips for this Christmas

ecember is a time when shoppers are tempted to stack purchases on the credit card with the pressure to buy that special gift for loved ones as Australians will spend over $40 billion dollars in retail stores and online this Christmas. The festive season could be less of a financial burden if you plan and follow some simple rules prior to the feared credit card bill arriving in January so your Christmas was a merry one. Here are tips to save this Christmas* Plan Plan what gifts you are giving to avoid the “late dash” when you visit the shops. Start early with your shopping to avoid the last minute rush as this generally means you will be paying more at the counter than what you had planned as you are under pressure to buy whatever you can get your hands on. The Xmas Card Why not use technology and save money on Christmas cards and make a Christmas Video. Smart phones similar devices allow for easy videoing that can be sent via instant messaging or email to friends and family at no cost. Shop online You don’t have to visit the shops as many major retail stores have online presence and stores. This

will save you time and purchasing gifts you didn’t really want. Shop Around Compare items and products on the internet and/ or in catalogues. You can use google by entering the name of what you are buying following by the word “buy, price”. This will give you a list of retailers with price comparisons to hook yourself a bargain. End of Year Sale time Spend less before Christmas Day and give a small gift and buy better gifts in the new-year sales. Alternatively give a gift card as this allows buying gifts after Christmas when the sales are on where you can get more value for your dollars. Secret Santa Everybody loves a secret Santa and it’s a great way to save money on gifts as it means one quality gift as opposed to many gifts for the family. Give an experience Everyone has someone in the family who has everything and doesn’t need anything. Why not organise something different, a picnic, a day the beach and invite family and friends for them. A present doesn’t always need money to make it valuable Cook Even if you’re not the next Jamie Oliver or Nigella

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Lawson, you could cook a great gift! A Christmas pudding or treats are not only a Christmas favourite but will help the recipient when it comes to filling the table. You will save you money with a little investment of your time. Cash is King It may be tough if you have planned your gifts in advance or buying online but there is no reason why you can’t leave your credit card at home and just take cash. A little bit of discipline may avoid the credit card shock in January. Share the load If Christmas is at your place this year, ask family members to bring a plate to help reduce the load and cost of Christmas lunch or dinner. Ask everyone to bring a plate to create a buffet style meal. Christmas brings family and friends together and I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful festive season to create some special memories. Contact Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the loan market to find a loan solution that best meet your needs. *Wealthwiz advice is general in nature and readers should seek their own professional advice before making any financial decisions.

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Western News

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rofessor Vicki Flood’s thirty year career in nutrition science and dietetics has been recognised by the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) who awarded her a fellowship for her contribution to the scientific study of nutrition. A conjoint professor at the University of Sydney and professor of allied health at Western Sydney Health District (WSLHD), Vicki joins only three other researchers from across Australia to receive a fellowship this year. Commenting on the award Vicki said: “I feel really honoured to be acknowledged by my peers and join an esteemed list of researchers who are fellows of the NSA.” Well known in the nutrition research field for her contribution to the body of knowledge around nutrition and eye disease, Vicki played a key role in an important longitudinal study that provided information on the protective effects of diet and eye health.

Professor Vicki Flood has been recognised as a fellow of the the Nutrition Society of Australia.

Having published over 180 peer reviewed papers Vicki draws on this experience to support emerging researchers at WSLHD. “I provide mentoring across the breadth of allied health staff, to build capacity in research and apply translation of research into practice,” she said. When COVID-19 began Vicki established a journal club to help allied health clinicians stay on top of the new research that was coming out. The monthly sessions helped clinicians to translate new research quickly into their day-to-day practice. “Helping our clinicians navigate the research space is really important. We run regular research and education forums, and are proactive in seeking opportunities for multi-disciplinary collaboration.” Vicki’s next multidisciplinary research project is focused on preventing cellulitis (a common and usually painful bacterial skin infection). Watch this space for exciting future findings from Vicki and her multidisciplinary team!

Divine makeover for Blacktown Hospital Chapel

lacktown Hospital’s new Spiritual Care Centre is a warm, welcoming space that anyone can use for meditation, prayer, a private moment, sacred space or read from the Bible or the Koran. The renovations to the Pastoral Care department were completed in time for the festive season and also comprise of a new beverage bay area, quiet room, new furnishings and a calming waterfall mural etched on the wall. People of all faiths, denominations, religions and cultures are always welcome at Blacktown Hospital’s Spiritual Care Centre located on Level 3 opposite the Bookings & Admissions Department. Blacktown Hospital’s spiritual care coordinator Jeannie Smith said the Spiritual Care Centre is a culturally neutral space where people can visit

Blacktown Hospital Spiritual Care coordinator Jeannie Smith and Father Diosdado Haber.

to reflect or sit with a chaplain and talk about their issues. “Patients and visitors can visit the centre at any time and speak with Father Dado or anyone of our volunteers.”

Father Dado joined Blacktown Hospital in 2013 as a Catholic chaplain. He visits patients in the wards offering spiritual and religious guidance, sacramental support, gives Holy Communion, anointing of the

sick, or just for a chat. “I was compelled to work at Blacktown Hospital because of my beliefs for a religious congregation who provided care to the destitute, sick and those dying from disease or pandemics in Italy in 1590,” Father Dado said. “Blacktown Hospital is my true calling and it’s the best place for me. I’ve worked at other Parish’s but being here is my destiny. The Spiritual Care Centre transformation was part of the $700 million Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals Expansion Project. The Spiritual Care Centre will be holding services over the festive period. The centre is open seven days and for further information about the services or to volunteer call spiritual care co-ordinator Jeannie Smith on 9881 8193.

Westmead Hospital named among best in world for cancer, diabetes Westmead Hospital has been named among the best specialised hospitals in the world for oncology and endocrinology in a new report released by US publication Newsweek. The study surveyed medical specialists around the world and narrowed down 22,000 recommendations to create a list of the top 100 hospitals for endocrinology (the study and treatment of the endocrine system, which is responsible for hormones) and the top 200 for oncology (the study and treatment of cancer). The Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre (CPMCC) at Westmead Hospital was one of six Australian services to be named among the world’s best specialised oncology centres. Westmead Hospital Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology director Professor N Wah Cheung said he was “extremely proud” to see the department named among the world’s best endocrinology services.

disorders, and osteoporosis,” Prof Cheung said. “Part of the reason for our clinical success is the collaborative environment of Westmead, with our systems of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary care. Therefore this recognition is a reflection of the high standard of care of provided by Westmead Hospital as a whole.”

Westmead Hospital aerial view. Picture: Peter Harrison

Prof Cheung explained the hospital has performed groundbreaking clinical work in many aspects of diabetes management and care, including inpatient diabetes management, care of women with diabetes in pregnancy, young adults with diabetes, the use of technology such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, islet cell transplants

for type 1 diabetes, better integration of care with GPs, and has been a world leader in the area of iodine deficiency. “Apart from the various aspects of diabetes care and general endocrinology, Westmead Hospital has been providing highly specialised endocrinology services for conditions such as pituitary disease, infertility, thyroid cancer, genetic endocrine

Professor N Wah Cheung

Western News 11 December 2020 Issue 124

Westmead researcher named fellow of Australia’s peak nutrition organisation

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 11 December 2020

Wanderers to open season with historic double header

estern Sydney Wanderers FC will open the season on Sunday 27 December with a historic A-League and Westfield W-League double header. The match will mark the first time that the season has opened with a double header with the two competitions joining forces at the home of the Wanderers, Bankwest Stadium. The Wanderers Westfield W-League team will open the season with a blockbuster match against Melbourne Victory. The opening match will be an opportunity for Wanderers members and fans to catch new recruits Margaux Chauvet and Libby Copus-Brown alongside returning talents including Georgia Yeoman-Dale, Leena Khamis and Wanderers Player of the Year Courtney Nevin. The Red & Black’s A-League side will take to the field at 6:30pm to line up against newcomers Macarthur Rams. Carl Robinson is set to coach in his first competitive fixture for the club with the clash against the Rams in another historic moment for football.

Internationals including Nicolai Muller, Graham Dorrans and Simon Cox are set to star in the opening round as well as young Australian talents Keanu Baccus, Tate Russell and Tass Mourdoukoutas. Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said he was proud that

the club was hosting such a historic fixture. “We are very excited to host the very first double header to open the Westfield W-League and A-League 2020/21 seasons,” said Tsatsimas., “Personally I am looking forward to our members, partners and fans

returning to Wanderland in what has been a challenging year. “We are one club here at the Wanderers and the double header is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase what the teams have been working on during the pre-season and we can’t wait to get back in action.”

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