Western News 12 May 2023

Admin staff celebrated for their service to inmates

What goes on behind prison walls has long been a source of fascination, but many jobs found on the outside are also needed in prisons, though the tasks can be quite different.

NSW correctional centres and Community Corrections offices will celebrate the hard work and dedication of non-custodial staff on administrative Professionals Day on Friday, 5 May.

this includes administration Support Officer Abbey Bernardello and Visits and Bookings Coordinator George Fokias who provide essential services to inmates at Parklea Correctional Centre and their families.

abbey started at Parklea about six months ago after working at a childcare centre.

the majority of her work involves answering telephone enquiries from the public and processing mail for inmates.

“I get calls from people asking if their inmate is here, if they’re okay and can I give them a message, what can they send in the mail and what can they bring to a visit,” abbey said.

“I can’t send messages to inmates, but I can email the wing officers and ask them to organise a welfare call.”

abbey said she sometimes had to deal with abusive or emotional people who were upset about their loved one being in prison, especially when she is unable to provide the information they want due to privacy rules.

“People skills and communication are very important. I have to figure

out what I’m allowed to say that’s not going to make them angry and let them down easy when I can’t give them what they want.”

abbey also processes the mail, which sometimes contains contraband and other banned items.

“We have to wear gloves when handling the mail in case there’s a weird substance on it and so we don’t leave fingerprints in case there’s an investigation,” abbey said.

“We call intel if there’s something suspicious found in the mail and all legal mail and property that gets sent in gets logged and checked by our K9 dog team.

“Lots of letters are covered in perfume and lipstick kisses, but explicit photos get sent back.”

She said she enjoys the job as there’s always something different every day.

“You have to deal with a lot of different people and this job has built up my confidence a lot.”

George has worked at Parklea for nine years after seeking a career change from running takeaway businesses in Sydney and regional NSW.

he works with the visits team, helping people register for a visit, book a visit and facilitating it when they arrive at the prison.

“Some people find the process very daunting and you have to be very accommodating,” George said.

Despite in-person visits now being able to be booked online, he and the

team still get lots of calls.

“On Mondays and tuesdays we can get 1,300 calls a day and some people don’t speak a lot of English, so we use other staff or Google to help translate,” George said.

“We have four sessions a day, except tuesday, with a maximum of 30 inmates at each one with up to four visitors, so that’s up to 120 inmates and 480 visitors.

“We have to check when they arrive that they are the person who made the booking using the documents they provided when they registered for a visit.”

George said he enjoyed the job because he likes people and enjoys helping them.

“We are their first point of contact. Some people are nervous and I tell them it’s safe and secure.

“We have a very good relationship with visitors and we have received thank you cards from some of them.”

Like abbey, he understands the importance of communication skills and empathy when speaking to family members who may be distressed.

“I try to calm them down and they do understand you’re trying to help them.

“there’s a lot of processes involved, but protocol has to be followed and we respect and follow that.”

For more information on the types of roles available at Parklea, go to: www.mtctrains.com.au/careers/

Parklea has been operated by MtC australia on behalf of Corrective Services NSW since 2019.

Minister for Health launches expanded Urgent Care Service for western Sydney in announcement at Westmead Health Precinct

aGED care residents across western Sydney will be able to access faster care and avoid unnecessary trips to hospital, thanks to a significant expansion of the successful intouch Urgent Care Service.

the expansion, announced by the NSW Government recently, will help ease pressure on western Sydney’s busy emergency departments by providing additional support to the 65 Residential aged Care Facilities in western Sydney.

Minister for health Ryan Park said the expanded intouch Urgent Care Service will allow more residential aged care patients in western Sydney to access care in the right place, at the right time, at no cost to the patient.

“the Western Sydney Local health District (WSLhD) intouch model currently avoids over 100 aged care residents a month from having to go to an emergency department to access the care they need,” Mr Park said.

“the intouch model allows a comprehensive assessment, using video conferencing technology to link up patients with their GP, family,

and aged care staff, and offers direct access to specialists, diagnostics, and clinicians to work through the best care plan.”

Expansion of the service will boost the number of doctor, nursing and administrative staff and provide:

• Increased referrals for patients from aged care facilities, NSW ambulance and general practice

• More virtual health care consultations

• Improved systems for assessment, care protocols and clinical documentation to streamline care

Western Sydney Local health District Chief Executive, Graeme

Loy, said the expansion will provide a better experience for western Sydney’s aged care residents, their family and staff.

“Urgent care services are intended to support people with urgent health care needs in appropriate settings outside of emergency departments,” Graeme said.

“Many people who visit our emergency departments could receive more timely and better tailored care in a community setting, such as a GP clinic, but that care has become increasingly difficult to access.

“By ensuring older western Sydney residents get the high-quality care

they need for less urgent conditions, the model frees up NSW ambulance paramedics and our busy ED staff to focus on those in need of emergency care.”

intouch was founded in 2021 by WSLhD to support at-home care for over 45,000 COVID-19 patients, and commenced the clinical coordination of RaCF residents in april 2022. the intouch Urgent Care Service is being expanded as part of the NSW Government’s $124 million program over two years to deliver 25 Urgent Care Services

Local schools to receive funding for upgrades and new equipment

Greenway MP Minister Michelle rowland has announced that nine local schools will benefit from a share of $32 million in grants to upgrade school infrastructure and equipment.

The funding is part of a $250 million commitment to improve school infrastructure by the Albanese Government.

All schools across the country were invited to apply for the funding and projects were assessed by the Department of Education and selected based on need. Schools were able to apply for grants of up to $25,000 to support much needed improvements to facilities and learning environments.

The following schools in the Greenway electorate will benefit from funding:

Ms rowland said the albanese Labor Government is delivering on their promise to invest in our schools and there is more to come.

“Our local schools deserve great infrastructure and quality equipment to help students achieve their best,” Ms Rowland said.

“The Albanese Government is investing in a better and fairer education system. This is terrific news for our local schools with more to come.

“I’m thrilled that we can deliver this funding to much-needed projects for our local schools.”

Western NeWs

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

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Spoil Mum

On May 14 we get to celebrate and spoil our mums. Their job is arguably one of the busiest and most complex ones there is. Being a mother combines the roles of nurturer, protector, teacher, clother, feeder, washer, listener, discipliner, tear-wiper, cheerleader, chauffeur and so many other positions in our lives that I could go on forever.

This extremely important job with its many sub portfolios is performed with copious loads of unconditional love. It is also often a thankless position, so here’s the time where we are reminded to thank them, spoil them and show them our appreciation.

If your mum is no longer with us it is a good time to reflect on the good times and great memories. If you didn’t have your mum around, its a golden opportunity to shower some love on the person who completed the majority of the above tasks to ensure you reached where you are today.

If you are doing some shopping for special gifts or outings, please remember that if you spend your money locally, you not only get to shower mum with love but you support our local businesses who are trying to stay afloat after a crazy couple of years as well.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the new mums, the empty nesters, the grandmothers, the great grandmothers, and all those who’ve stepped in to fill the role when there’s been a need to. We appreciate all that you have done!

Happy Mother’s Day

The Outback Blacktown Country Music Festival

• Headliners: Adam Harvey and Gina Jeffreys

• 14 May, Boronia picnic area, Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside

• Time: 11am-4pm

• Cost $10 - Tickets available through the Blacktown City Council website - blacktown.nsw.gov.au

Come and celebrate Mother’s Day at Outback Blacktown. The best Sydneybased country music festival of the year!

Set against the stunning background of the 65 hectare, Nurragingy Bushland Reserve, this festival is the perfect opportunity to relax with great country music with the family. Nurragingy Reserve is home to picnic areas and the Wawai Ngurra inclusive playground.

Enjoy a stellar line up of some of Australia’s best Country music artists including Adam Harvey & Gina Jeffreys, supported by Christie Lamb, Matt Cornell, Ricky Nifo and Bonnie Kellett.

With plenty of free activities for the kids to enjoy, pack a picnic basket and a rug, grab your hat and head to Outback Blacktown. Food trucks and bar will be open for purchase on the day. No BYO alcohol.

Spaces are limited so get in quick! Tickets are $10 per person. Children 3 years and under are free.

Outback Blacktown is one of 20 events in the Blacktown City Festival, a spectacle of food, culture and entertainment during 2 weeks in May.

The Festival will run from 13 to 27 May, with the popular Medieval Fayre and Banquet, Outback Blacktown Country Music Festival and Streets Alive and Parade Day some of the highlights.

The full 2023 Festival program is now live, with more than 20 events for people of all ages.

Transformation for the future is key to the budget for Blacktown City

Blacktown city council has endorsed a budget that shows a commitment to growing local jobs, protecting the environment, providing quality services, facilities and providing transformational infrastructure for our residents and businesses.

the biggest council in nSw has delivered a $787 million balanced budget and operational plan for the 2023/24 financial year. Council has endorsed them for public exhibition and feedback.

Blacktown city Mayor tony Bleasdale oaM said, “Blacktown city is one of the largest and fastestgrowing councils in australia, and this budget lays out the blueprint for maintaining the delivery of council’s essential services, as well as improving and maintaining the first-class community facilities our residents need and deserve.

“Maintaining essential council services and investing in community infrastructure is the key to delivering for the people of Blacktown city now and into the future. this budget also supports our capital works program to build and improve our city’s roads, footpaths, community facilities, and recreational spaces.

“Provision is made for council’s child care programs, libraries, aquatic and leisure centres and the leo kelly Blacktown arts centre and the budget provides for the operation and maintenance of our waste collection and management services,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

the 2023/2024 budget will also complement the historic agreement between council and the walker corporation to revitalise the Blacktown city centre, which will deliver thousands of new jobs and inject hundreds of millions of dollars into the economy of the city.

this budget will support council’s ongoing transformational projects due for completion in this term, including:

• The construction and commissioning of the Blacktown Exercise Sports and technology hub (BESt) that launches a bright future for Blacktown International Sports Park,

• The opening of the Blacktown animal Rehoming centre (BaRc) at Glendenning,

• The expansion of St Bartholomew’s cemetery in Prospect.

Council’s sound financial management over many years has allowed us to handle several ongoing financial challenges, imposed by successive state government policies. these include restrictions on council revenue due to nSw Governmentimposed rate pegging and caps on levies from developers.

Mayor Bleasdale said, “this budget represents the unswerving commitment of council to responsible financial leadership for our city, building a safe, modern and diverse city for our residents and businesses, and inviting sustainable economic growth and investment.”

In addition to council’s transformational projects, the 2023/2024 budget has allocated $211 million for vital community infrastructure, including roads, parks, swimming pools and libraries.

council will invest $45.6 million in developing new open space in the growing areas of Riverstone and Schofields, $22.8 million for land purchases in new release areas to deliver essential drainage and water infrastructure, and $26.4 million for new drainage and stormwater infrastructure in the growing areas of Riverstone, Rouse Hill and Marsden Park.]

• Council has also allocated $20.9 million for road and footpath improvements across the city and $11.3 million for new roadworks in the north west Growth area.

• $63.4 million will go towards building improvements across

Blacktown city, with an additional $4.4 million to upgrade facilities at council’s sporting grounds.

• $28 million is allocated to ensure council’s kids’ Early learning centres can continue to deliver the best quality care and education across one of the biggest childcare operations in nSw

• $24 million will go to Blacktown city’s 5 aquatic and leisure centres, the leo kelly Blacktown arts centre as well as community centres and recreational facilities.

• Blacktown City Libraries will receive $12 million over the coming financial year.

Blacktown city council’s Draft Delivery Program 2022-2026 and operational Plan 2023/24 (including our budget), as well as the Draft works Improvement Program 2023/24 (our capital works), Draft Goods and Services Pricing Schedule 2023/24 (our fees and charges) and Draft long term Financial Plan 2023-2033 are available for public comment from 10 May to 6 June 2023.

to view these documents from 10 May 2023 and to have your say, visit council’s website at www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Have-YourSay or the Blacktown administration centre or any of council’s libraries.

Blacktown City Council key 2023/24 Budget points

Budget forecast spending for 2023/24 - $787 million

$211 million allocated for major capital works, including:

• $45.6 million for the development of new open space in Riverstone and Schofields growth areas,

• $26.4 million for new drainage and stormwater infrastructure in Riverstone, Rouse Hill and Marsden Park,

• $22.8 million for land purchases in new release areas for essential drainage and water infrastructure,

• $20.9 million for road and footpath improvements across the city,

• $11.3 million for new roadworks in the north west Growth area,

• $63.4 million for building improvements,

• $4.4 million for the upgrade of facilities at council sporting grounds.

Funding for core services consisting of:

• $28 million for the operation of council’s kids’ Early learning centres,

• $24 million for the operation of council’s 5 aquatic and leisure centres, the leo kelly Blacktown arts centre, community centres and recreational facilities,

• $12 million for the operation of council’s 5 libraries,

• $69 million for the operation and management of waste collection and management services.

Blacktown City Fast Facts

• Blacktown City has a population of 415,000 people and this is predicted to reach more than 600,000.

• Biggest city is the largest council area in nSw by population, and the fourth largest in australia.

• Blacktown City has a growing $22.35 billion economy.

• Blacktown City has 27,247 registered businesses supporting more than 153,160 local jobs.

• In Blacktown City, construction is the largest industry, worth $7.803 billion.

• Blacktown City consists of 54 suburbs.

• 184 languages are spoken in Blacktown city.

• More than 188 countries are represented in Blacktown city and just under half the population was born overseas.

• Blacktown City is home to the largest urban First nations population in nSw

• Blacktown City has 1,524 kilometres of roads.

• Blacktown City has 262 kilometres of waterways.

Blacktown City make a ‘splash’ at Royal Lifesaving awards!

Blacktown city council’s key Venues shared a win for ‘Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion’ at the Royal life Saving Society’s ’s inaugural aquatic awards night – the aquas - at luna Park, Sydney on 14 april 2023.

the win recognises Blacktown key Venues work with the culturally and linguistically Diverse community (calD) through its Swim Sense programs. Swim Sense was introduced some 3 years ago and provides muchneeded water safety awareness and skill training for our multi-cultural residents which helps them build confidence and competence in and around the water.

Mayor tony Bleasdale oaM shared his pride in this wonderful achievement and congratulated the key Venues staff on the work they are doing in this area:

“It is a great honour to win this award given by such a prestigious organisation.

“we are committed to creating opportunities that promote inclusion

for all members of our community. to be recognised for these efforts is a tremendous honour.”

the ‘Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion’ award received the highest number of submissions of

all the awards presented on the night with key venues also nominated for ‘Excellence in aquatic Safety Design’ (Blacktown leisure centre Stanhope) and ‘Excellence in Drowning Prevention’ (all venues).

Early treatment of gestational diabetes for those at higher risk beneficial, study finds

aFIRS t-o F - I t S -k I n D international study led by western Sydney University has shown that treatment of gestational diabetes from early pregnancy adds additional protection for babies and mothers from pregnancy complications.

Published in the prestigious new England Journal of Medicine, the new research explored whether treatment of gestational diabetes before 20 weeks’ gestation among those already at high risk improves maternal and infant health, finding a reduction in complications.

through a randomised controlled trial performed at 17 hospitals in australia, austria, Sweden and India, the study screened over 43,000 women to recruit 802 women with a diabetes risk factor before 20 weeks’ gestation, who had gestational diabetes by the World Health Organization definition. lead author Distinguished Professor David Simmons from the University’s School of Medicine

and translational Health Research Institute said the study provides new evidence for those deemed at higher risk for early testing and treatment of gestational diabetes beyond the current recommended approach of intervening at 24-28 weeks.

“testing for gestational diabetes is offered routinely later in pregnancy and those at higher risk are also tested early on to exclude undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. If these early glucose values are increased, but below those diagnostic of type 2 diabetes, we feel we should treat but data has been lacking to demonstrate the effects of such treatment on the mother or baby. We have now filled this major knowledge gap likely affecting millions of pregnancies every year,” said Distinguished Professor Simmons.

the study assessed pregnancy outcomes with the initiation of treatment for gestational diabetes before 20 weeks’, compared with no early treatment and subsequent

initiation of treatment depending on results of repeat oral glucose tolerance testing (oGtt) at 24-28 weeks’ gestation, with significant and unexpected findings relating to respiratory distress in babies.

“over one in twenty babies avoided a group of severe birth complications including birth damage like broken bones or nerves, or getting stuck during birth known as shoulder dystocia. In addition, breathing problems requiring oxygen were almost halved and the number of days needed in neonatal intensive care or special care unit were down by 40 per cent,” explained Distinguished Professor Simmons. “Furthermore, severe damage to and around the mother’s birth canal, known as perineal injury, was reduced by over three quarters.”

the research team recommends further confirmatory trials and longterm follow-up studies of offspring. Professor Simmons said, “in the meantime, it’s really important that

key venues shared the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion award honour with 2 other ground-breaking initiatives - all abilities australia and orange aquatic centre/Glenroi Heights Public School.

we now use these new findings to review the existing guidelines for gestational diabetes, agree on the best cut-offs for its diagnosis and start protecting mothers and babies as soon as we can.”

this research project was funded through grants from the national Health and Medical Research council (nHMRc); Region Örebro Research Committee Dnr; Medical Scientific Fund of the Mayor of Vienna; South western Sydney local Health District academic Unit; and western Sydney University ainsworth trust.

For more information, download and read, treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosed Early in Pregnancy, go to www.nejm.org/doi/ full/10.1056/NEJMoa2214956

Blacktown City Council joins forces with Mount Druitt Town Rangers

Blacktown city council’s charlie lowles leisure centre Emerton has joined up with local national Premier league team, Mount Druitt town Rangers as they go for glory in this year’s soccer league. the partnership will help keep the player’s game-ready during the 2023 soccer season and provide indoor facilities during unpredictable weather.

“It is so important that we nurture and support community sports groups. they are helping build

Blacktown as the ‘sporting city’ we know it is. clubs such as Mount Druitt town Rangers bring so much joy to people of all ages and backgrounds in our local area and provide valuable sport and fitness opportunities for our youth,” said Mayor tony Bleasdale oaM.

the town Rangers Football club has over 650 members and players from junior to representative level and teams in the male and female national Premier league nSw

the new partnership comes after the $5.5 million redevelopment of Popondetta Park – home of the town Rangers, by Blacktown city council. the redevelopment project includes a new synthetic sporting field and upgrade to parking and landscaping. charlie lowles leisure centre Emerton and the Mount Druitt town Rangers Football club are longtime neighbours and working together will further help raise the Town Rangers profile as it seeks to rise through the various soccer leagues in nSw

Children from our wonderful multicultural community celebrate our Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion award.

Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM proudly holds up our award.

GLOW at

Get ready to GLOW!

Sydney’s favourite NeW light festival is back for another dazzling year with tickets on sale today.

Last year’s festival set visitor records of over 111,000, making it the biggest ticketed light festival in the country.

explore over 70 giant animal lanterns and installations including the enormous 27m Kaurna Skink, immerse yourself in the magical 7NeWS Underwater Wonderland, and enjoy the fun-filled Neon Playground and dreamy Sky Castle by eNeSS. test your skills in the retro Neon Arcade and Glowy Golf by Carnival Cruise Line, check out the view from the glowing 7NeWS Ferris wheel, and experience the thrill of the KIIS Rides Zone including the NeW mindblowing Vortex tunnel, gigantic 8-lane Superslide, dizzying Space Jam, and Kids Dodgems.

GLOW is the only light festival in Sydney where you can explore an underwater world in the After-Dark Aquarium experience and encounter hundreds of creepy crawlies in the largest Reptile and Nocturnal house in the world.

top off your night with an incredible selection of food and dessert trucks, featuring BlackBear BBQ, Absurd Bird, KIIS Fairy Floss, Kerbside Creamery, and GLOW Bar!

GLOW at Sydney Zoo in eastern

Creek will light up every night from 5:30pm to 10:00pm, Friday 12 May to Saturday 3 June. It is an accessible and inclusive event for everyone to enjoy, designed for varying levels of mobility with no hills or steps.

Don’t miss out – GLOW at Sydney Zoo SOLD OUt in 2022, so make sure you get in early to avoid disappointment!

tickets are on sale now - book at www.sydneyzoo.com/glow

TICKET INFORMATION:

New Sydney Zoo in eastern Creek

700 Great Western Highway, Bungarribee

12 May – 3 June 2023

Sessions: 5:30pm, 6pm, 6:30pm, 7pm, 7.30pm - Limited tickets each night.

Adults 16+ $29.99

Children 3-15 $24.99

Infants 0-2 FRee FRee parking

CROSS WORD

ACROSS

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5 Portrays (7)

9 Reluctance (9)

10 Mistake (5)

11 Weirdos (7)

12 Masts, spars and sails (7)

13 Churchgoing (9)

15 Twice thirty (5)

17 Stuffed bear (5)

19 Girds (9)

22 Disinherits (7)

25 Something to be imitated (7)

26 Fifty-eight in Roman numerals (5)

27 Vest (9)

28 Failed to fulfill a promise (7)

29 Female deity (7))

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1 Asthma medication dispenser (7)

2 Pillaged (9)

3 Zilch (7)

4 A sedimentary rock (9)

5 Washer and _____ (5)

6 Solemn promises (7)

7 Breed of dog (5)

8 Jagged (7)

14 Loathsome (9)

16 Marimba (9)

17 Infant (7)

18 Caterwauling (7)

20 Responded (7)

21 Detectives (7)

23 Heir (5)

24 Cut wood (5)

Sydney Zoo is back – bigger, brighter, and better!

Aquarium after dark Kuarna Skink Roving Performers 7NEWS Ferris Wheel

Neon Swings

A new era of dining, celebrations, functions and family fun

Arenowned hospitality identity is heading up the recently renovated contemporary cafe at richmond Club, and operating richmond Club’s four relaunched function rooms available to hire for free for all richmond Club members.

richmond Club has partnered with Alpha Global Catering who bring more than 20 years experience in boutique service environments to the club, and the strength and professionalism of a team of more than 100 dedicated and meticulously trained staff, to relaunch cafes and spaces at the heart of the Hawkesbury community, the richmond Club.

Alpha Global Catering are the foodies behind the much loved olive & oak at east Leagues at Bondi, Bella Pasta and Co in Casula, The Sawmill in Pymble, and Henry’s Bar and restaurant in Penrith, as well as menus at Kingswood Sports Club, Sydney roosters headquarters and Sydney olympic Park.

The revamped enigma function rooms offer a continually evolving menu of Australian cuisine that complements seasonal produce, aligns with food trends and surprises with new and exciting flavours.

“we’re committed to keeping things fresh, while continuing to

provide unwavering service and exceptional amenities at the heart of every community celebration. From christenings to 18th birthday parties, 60th wedding anniversaries and memorial celebrations of life, conferences, and functions at the downstairs function rooms… the richmond Club should be your first thought for your next event,” richmond Club chief executive Kimberley Talbot said.

The enigma function rooms are available to hire free of charge and with no set-up fees for all richmond Club members and Hawkesburybased community groups. with three of the four rooms boasting a seating capacity of 460, and all housing newly updated audio and visual equipment, the richmond Club ensures your 21st birthday party, reunion or wedding

runs without a hitch.

“A suite of new electronic whiteboards and projectors to make hosting your next conference a breeze, there’s a function room to suit every need,” Ms Talbot said.

“Bookings are now open for the enigma function rooms. Call reception to speak directly with our passionate functions coordinator, dedicated to bringing your unique event to life.

“we are proud to launch Abby’s Cafe in conjunction with Alpha Global Catering. Abby’s offers a unique menu from classic sandwiches to higher end Australian cuisine,” Ms Talbot said. The contemporary Hamptons style cafe provides a beautiful place to relax and catch up with friends and family whilst the kids play. From cheap and cheerful toasties to specialised meals, the new menu proudly joins the known

and loved Villaggio in the culinary delight stakes at the richmond Club. Six lounge spaces allow locals to relax, work, study or enjoy the peace and quiet whilst fueling up on the Abby’s Cafe menu.

To celebrate the reinvigorated spaces, the richmond Club is offering discounted membership for all new members before the end of this financial year. Membership privileges include discounts on all regular food and beverage prices, a free meal in Villaggio Bistro during your birthday month, the chance to win up to $10,000 in membership draws, discounts on coastal resort stays in Urunga, Fingal Bay and Sussex Inlet, free door-to-door courtesy bus access to various areas in the Hawkesbury and reward points every time you spend at the richmond Club’s great venues and events including Villaggio Bistro, Cafe Villaggio, bars, bingo, raffles, functions and even when you BPAY your utility bills.

“The richmond Club is passionate about pursuing its vision to provide affordable, accessible family restaurants and high quality function centres. our new enigma functions rooms and rejuvenated dining options is another step in achieving this goal for our valued members and guests,” Ms Talbot concluded.

Indigenous Affairs

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

Sydney Arthur Cunningham “known as “Sid”, “Doc” and “Black Santa” was born in 1926 at newtown and grew up in Redfern and La Perouse. He played Black Santa for almost 30 years. In 1974 he helped people devastated by Cyclone Tracy in darwin and in 1982 he was named AnZAC of the year. Sid served in the RAAF in WW2 as a General Hand between June 1944 to March 1945. In 1987 nAIdOC honoured him as “Aboriginal of the year”. Sid was also awarded the Order of Australian Medal in 1989. He was a member of the yuin Tribe from the north Coast of nSW and is best known for his tireless work in fundraising and filling food orders for needy families throughout Australia and for delivering toys to many disadvantaged Aboriginal children at Christmas time. He worked with the Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs in Central Sydney as a Field Officer and established the Western district Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs in St Marys in 1976. The 1981 newspaper photo shows the year he was battling to meet the demands for genuine poor families who were forced to live in substandard conditions. The inset RAAF photo shows Sid at 19. He died in March 1999 at Balmain Hospital at the age of 72. More than 1,000 mourners attended his funeral at St Marys Cathedral with a number of Aboriginal Community Leaders, including Charles Perkins and Lyall Munro who spoke at the service. A Plaque to his memory is in the footpath at King Street at newtown. He is buried at the eastern Suburbs Memorial Park at Matraville. In 1814 Governor Macquarie founded the first school for Aboriginal children called the native Institution which was located at Parramatta until 1822. It was succeeded by the native Institution at Blacktown but closed about the 1830s. The establishment of separate Aboriginal Schools in nSW led to the creation of records dealing almost exclusively with the primary education of Indigenous children. education for all children in nSW became compulsory in 1880 with the proclamation of the Public Instruction Act. Initially the Act supported one public school system. Over time social attitudes, supported by the policies of the department of Public Instruction, led to the establishment of separate Aboriginal Schools. early policies supporting segregation permitted Aboriginal children to attend the local school only if they were considered adequately dressed, clean, courteous and well fed. The practice of separating Aboriginal children from the non-Aboriginal local school system was illustrated in 1902 with the ‘exclusion on demand’ policy. The then Minister of education gave instructions to schools in nSW to remove Aboriginal children on the request of white parents. From 1883–1869 the Aborigines Welfare Board and its predecessor the Aborigines Protection Board, was the main nSW State Government agency responsible for implementing and administering legislation and policies affecting Aboriginal people. The records of the Board are important because they document activities that had a major impact on the lives of Aboriginal people, especially the ‘Stolen Generations’ who were removed from their families and communities. The Board for the Protection of Aborigines was established in June 1883. Comprising six members appointed by the Governor it held weekly meetings at which

recommendations concerning the State’s Aboriginal population were considered. The Board functioned without any statutory power until the Aborigines Protection Act 1909 when the board was enlarged with the principal expenditure being the distribution of rations, clothing and huts for accommodation. The Aborigines Protection Amending Act 1915 gave the Board the power to assume control and custody of Aboriginal children if it believed this action to be in the moral or physical interest of the child, and to remove the child to “such care and control as it thinks best”. The Board was reconstituted again under the Aborigines Protection (Amendment) Act of 1940, and its name changed to the Aborigines Welfare Board. The Board held its final meeting on 29 April 1969 and was replaced by the Aborigines Welfare directorate, department of Child Welfare and Social Welfare (later the Aborigines Services Branch, youth and Community Services). Another Aboriginal advocate was Henry “Harry” Aylwin Barrenger who was born in May 1900 at Prahran in Melbourne. Harry was educated at Hawksburn State School in 1915. He joined the Postmaster-General’s department as a messenger and two years later he was appointed clerk in the department of Home and Territories. In February 1924 at All Saints Church in St Kilda, he married Lily Adelaide danson. They moved to Canberra in 1927 with the first relocated Federal public servants and their families. Advancing steadily within the department of the Interior, Harry was involved in the administration of the northern Territory and made frequent visits there. His responsibilities included Aboriginal welfare policy and he served as secretary to the initial conference of Commonwealth and State Aboriginal authorities that was held in Canberra in April 1937. In 1938 he became an associate member of the Commonwealth Institute of Accountants. As first assistant-secretary from 1948, he oversaw the substantial expansion occasioned by the transfer of most of the remaining government departments to Canberra and acted as secretary of the department. On one such occasion in January 1949, there was controversy over the enforced removal to Adelaide and Alice Springs of Aboriginal children who had been evacuated to Penrith during World War 2, where he dismissed protests against the move, arguing that the children had to obey the orders of their legal guardian which was the northern Territory director of native Affairs. In 1954 Harry became a nominated member of the ACT Advisory Council. Aboriginal barkpainters at the Maningrida settlement in the Northern Territory benefited from his efforts to establish a forest reserve to provide a future source of bark. Respected for his hard work and integrity, Harry was never ruffled and had an ‘unfailing sense of humour’. He related well to others and was noted for his sympathy and compassion. He was accessible and supportive of his staff and he improved morale in his department. Harry received an O.B.e in 1964 and retired from the public service and the advisory council in 1965. He died in August 1976 at the Woden Valley Hospital and was buried in Canberra cemetery.

Sources: Aboriginal Welfare, Initial Conference of Commonwealth and State Aboriginal Authorities, Sydney Morning Herald, Australian (Canberra edition), Canberra Times, Canberra Courier, ACT Advisory Council minutes, National Library of Australia, Australian Dictionary of Biography, NSW State Archives, J.J. Fletcher-A History of Aboriginal School Education in NSW, Monument Australia Website, Ancestry, BDM website, Family Search Website, National Archives Service Records, The Koori Mail 1999,

How rentvesting could help you buy your first home

Alex Soncini

Your first home is rarely your forever home, nor does it have to be.

While some first home buyers may think the only way to crack the market is with a win on the lottery or significant support from parents, there are other avenues.

Picking the right path to enter the property market can depend on your lifestyle and finances. Here we explore some of the perks of rentvesting – investing in property, while you continue to rent.

• Perhaps buying an apartment in Canberra and living elsewhere would make sense for your financial future.

What is rentvesting?

Rentvesting is a blend of renting and investing. It refers to renting a property where you want to live and buying an investment property in a suburb you can afford.

The idea diverges from a traditional approach of buying a home in which you live and pay the mortgage directly instead of spending a large part of your income on rent.

Why should first home buyers consider rentvesting?

As cities tend to offer more vibrant cultural activities, closer proximity to work and schools, as well as better access to resources and infrastructure, it’s no surprise they attract the bulk of our population.

However, as a lot of younger home buyers can’t afford to jump head first into these expensive inner city markets, they face having to leave this life behind in order to buy elsewhere – or they could consider rentvesting!

• Live (and rent) an apartment wherever you like, but own a house, say in Darwin.

Rentvesting can be an appealing strategy for first home buyers as it allows them to continue living where they choose, whilst at the same time getting a foot onto the property ladder.

Rentvesting could allow you to maintain your lifestyle wherever you choose to live today, while still getting into the property market.

What are the pros and cons of rentvesting?

The biggest benefit of rentvesting – and the main reason people do it – is the aforementioned lifestyle maintenance. However, there are other pros.

Pros

Depending on the market and your personal circumstances, it can be far smarter financially to rentvest than to buy your own home and live in it.

With an investment property, you may be able to claim tax deductions on the interest charged as part of your investment loan and other expenses incurred related to your investment property. It’s recommended that you speak to your independent tax adviser to determine tax implications related to rentvesting that are applicable to your personal circumstances.

Given you will also be receiving rent from tenants to help pay your mortgage, financially, you may be better off – but this isn’t always the case.

To determine if there are financial benefits, you need to do your research and finding areas with excellent rental returns. It’s critical that you do your research and understand the local market.

There are tools to help you with local and suburban knowledge like median prices, average

rent and demographic trends. Most often your broker can provide these reports.

Cons

A big concern for rentvestors is the ability to effectively manage cashflow. Like any investment property there is an element of unpredictability that you need to account and plan for, like losing tenants or maintenance upkeep.

It’s important that you understand all of the costs associated with being a rentvestor.

Aside from your initial purchase costs, like a deposit, stamp duty and legal fees, you must also factor in ongoing costs like council rates, insurance, maintenance and any tax requirements, as well as your own rental expenses.

Managing cash flow is an important part of property investment so make sure you have a good understanding of your budget and get some professional advice.

The best way to understand if rentvesting is the right choice for you is to speak to your broker and financial advisor to get the best, up-to-date advice on your finances.

To ensure you have the means to make ‘rentvesting’ work for you, contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177 for advice on good debt and other strategies that will allow you to maintain your current lifestyle.

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.

Team Arunga wins ‘Windsor Annual’ Polo Tournament

By Noel Rowsell

TeAM Arunga (Mark Greig, Nick Wills, Adam Tolhurst and Bautista Panelo) has won the 2023 Windsor Annual Polo Tournament, defeating Giddiup on Friday afternoon and Charleston’s Chargers on Saturday - both games on the #1 field at Windsor

Polo Club. Giddiup and Charleston’s Chargers played off for the 8-goal minor placings on Saturday.

There were also 4 x 4-goal games played over the weekend, 6 x 0-goal and 2 x sub-Zero goal, with the other outright winners being: 4-goal: Muddy Flats; 0-goal: Los Lobos sub-Zero: Stone.

The Windsor Annual 8-Goal Champions: Team Arunga: (Mark Greig, Bautista Panelo, Adam Tolhurst (absent: Nick Wills). Photo supplied by WPC

Action pics from the Arunga v Giddiup game. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Leisa Cabban wins the 2023 Hawkesbury Ladies Golf Classic

By Noel Rowsell

The 2023 hawkesbury Ladies Golf Classic has been played and won over 3 days last week, with Leisa Cabban (Richmond GC) winning this year’s title. Theresa Lonergan (Newcastle GC) took out the overall scratch prize for the 3-day tournament.

86 ladies teed off at Windsor CC on Tuesday, 62 at Lynwood on Wednesday and 84 at Richmond GC on Thursday, with the weather favouring the players with sunny conditions on each day, albeit with gusty winds at Lynwood.

Daily winners were: Windsor CC: A Grade Carol Bailey (The Grange); B Grade Jeanne Paton (Windsor); C Grade Janine Smith (Lynwood). 2BBB Janine humphrey & Dawn McKenzie (Richmond). Lynwood CC: A Grade Brenda Williamson (Lynwood), B Grade Sue Willmott (Richmond), C Grade Dawn McKenzie (Richmond). 2BBB Jane Mackie & Sue Willmott (Richmond); Richmond GC: A Grade: Rita Gounder (Richmond; B Grade Cheryle White (Richmond); C Grade: Denise Fairfax (Windsor). 2BBB Wendy Rasmussen & Leisa Cabban (Richmond).

“This has been one of our most successful hawkesbury Classic events on record, judging from the comments received from all the participants,” said spokesperson Carol Carter.

“We had a great number of the ladies attend the presentation at Richmond on the final day, after play finished, and there was much anticipation awaiting all the various presentations.

“There were many positive comments as to the list and value of the prizes awarded, not to mention some great raffles

“We also had a representative from our major sponsor, Bendigo Bank, who presented the prizes for the overall hawkesbury Classic winners.”

Master Pennant golf begins

By Noel Rowsell

9 LoCAL clubs will compete in this year’s Golf NSW Master Pennant (over 50’s) competition, which commences on 14th May and runs through to 2nd July on a home and Away basis.

Stonecutters Ridge, Penrith (Section 2) and Dunheved (Section 3) are all in Division 1; Twin Creeks (Section 1), Glenmore heritage Valley (Section 2) and Springwood (Section 4) are all in Division 2, Richmond (Section 1) and Leonay (Section 4) are both in Division 3; Wallacia (Section 2) is in Division 4.

There are 7 home games in the opening round, featuring Stonecutters vs Liverpool (TBA), Penrith vs Kogarah (11:15am), Dunheved vs Pennant hills (11am), Twin Creeks vs Muirfield (8am), Richmond vs Bexley (11am), Leonay vs Antill Park (10am) and Wallacia vs Fox hills (TBA).

Locals grab top ten finishes at Kew GC

By Noel Rowsell

WeSTeRN Sydney junior golfers have fared well at the 2023 JNJG North Coast Junior Masters and the JNJG U12 Tour - both events held at Kew GC over 6-7th May.

Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished in a tie for second place at the Masters, whilst Blake hodges (erskine Park / NSW GC) tied for 10th.

Darcy also finished in a tie for 2nd in the 14/15 Boys Age Group, whilst Blake finished tied for 5th in the 16+ Age group.

In the Girls division, Camilla Kim (Schofields / The Australian GC) finished 5th overall, whilst in her Age group (13 & Under), she finished a clear runaway winner.

In the U12 Tour event, evelyn Oram (Richmond GC) finished in 2nd position in the composite (12 & Under) Girls division, whilst harrison Oram (Richmond GC) finished tied for 8th in the 11/12 Boys division.

The next JNJG Tour event will be the 2023 Macarthur Junior Masters, which will be played at Campbelltown and Camden Golf clubs over 11-12th June, whilst the next JNJG U12 Tour event will be at Leonay GC on 25th June.

2023 Champion Leisa Cabban & Tony Weller (Bendigo Bank)

Scratch winner Theresa Lonergan

Leisa Cabban (2nd from right) with Tuesday’s playing partners Leisa Cabban on the 1st tee at Windsor

Darcy Mackay

Andrew Moore (Stonecutters Ridge).

Photo from the 2022 Master Pennant competition. Photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au

Blacktown City hosts top seed Rockdale Ilinden

By Bo B Turner

Blacktown city Fc remain in the middle of the pack with the nSw Premier league competition reaching the halfway mark this weekend. It has been a challenging start for Blacktown city losing three key strikers in the first three weeks of the season and leading goal scorer travis Major two weeks ago to a knee injury. coach Mark crittenden has always relied heavily on his bench and younger players with a philosophy that if someone goes out it provides an opportunity for others to step up. Jack o’Brien is one of those players to step up scoring nine goals in the first part of the season. Mid fielder Mario Shabow is also a key piece for Blacktown as he controls the centre of the pitch. Youngster tJ Burnie has come into his own with the additional playing time due to the number of injuries sustained to the Men this year.

Blacktown had a solid win at home over the Bulls academy two weeks ago, 4-1. In goals for the Bulls was Blacktown city star from last year alex Robinson who made a number of saves as Blacktown peppered the goal. last week the Blacktown men travelled to wollongong. Despite a number of scoring opportunities, Blacktown had to settle for a 0-0 draw.

this week Blacktown city plays host to arch rival Rockdale Ilinden who are the only team to have cracked ten wins in the nSw Premier league. Rockdale sit in second place with a 10 win and 4 loss record. they are just behind league leaders apia leichhardt who have a 9-4-1 record. Blacktown currently sit in 7th place with a 6-3-5 record and a win this Sunday over Rockdale will provide a huge boost up the ladder.

the Blacktown city Senior women enter their second season in the nSw competition. led by Head

of women’s Football, David ‘Dok’ o’keefe, the Blacktown women are sitting middle of the pack in the nPl 2 division. the women have been led by Philippine national Male cesar and travel to play St George this Sunday. Blacktown VS Rockdale this Sunday, May 14 at landen Stadium 5 Quinn ave, Seven Hills. Game time is 3pm with Under 20 Men at 1pm. See you there and Go Blacktown city!

Photos: Not24Get

Western NeWs

Friday, 12 May 2023

HSRCA hosts the 2023 Sydney Classic

By Noel Rowsell

The historic Sport and Race Car Association’s (hSRCA) 2023 Sydney Classic will host heritage Touring Cars’ inaugural combined grid, featuring early 5 Litre V8s and 2 Litre Super Tourers.

Following on from the success of the 2022 Sydney Classic and Summer Festival race meetings, the hSRCA’s 2023 historic race season will open with a spectacular Sydney Classic from June 9-11.

The heritage Touring Cars series will be the feature category for the meeting, alongside a full contingent of historic sports and race cars, covering everything from the magic specials of J, K and L to the wings ‘n slicks racers of Q & R and packed grids of Group S and Group N cars.

Dubbed the ‘Legends of Bathurst’, the heritage Touring Cars series puts iconic Group C and A touring cars on track in anger in a three-round national series. These historic race machines were driven by local heroes like Peter

Brock, Jim Richards, Dick Johnson and Glenn Seton, making history in the Australian Touring Car Championship, both on The Mountain and around the country.

For the first time ever, at the 2023 Sydney Classic, the series will run alongside early 5-litre V8 Supercars and 2-litre Super Tourers. The early 5-litre V8 Supercars pick up where Group A left off in 1993, including cars like a Perkins engineering Commodore VS, Paul Radisich Falcon and Bob Pearson Pro-Duct VP Commodore.

The 2.0-litre Super Tourers ran alongside the 5.0-litre Touring Cars

during a similar period throughout the early ‘90s until 2002, providing a home for the smaller capacity race machinery that competed so fiercely in Group C and A. BMW dominated the series, with Paul Morris claiming four Drivers Championships on board the 318i and 320i, Audi’s A4 Quattro also making a mark.

heritage Touring Cars president Terry Lawlor plans to bring the exDick Johnson Greens Tuff Mustang out to the meeting.

“heritage Touring Cars are delighted to have our inaugural combined round with Super Tourers and early-V8 Supercars at the hSRCA meet at

Sydney Motorsport Park in June,” said Terry. “This is the start of a new chapter in historic racing and it’s great to join up with them for it.

“The hSRCA is honoured to host this significant inaugural outing, and we look forward to seeing the categories running together this June. As always, we are proud to be supported by all fifth category categories, and look forward to putting on a full schedule of events and quality track time for all groups, which will also include Group Q, O and M Sports and Racing cars, Groups J, K and L, Formula Vee and Ford, Group N, Group S, Regularity and Super Sprint.”

Action from the 2022 HSRCA Summer Festival - photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)