Western News 15 March 2019 by Nepean News

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Friday, 15 March 2019 ISSUE 80 0403 537 333 Your 12-page Blacktown City Show 2019 liftout and program inside this issue!

FREE ENTRY TO THE SHOW

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

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Western News

Blacktown’s Woman of the Year

ctivist, founder and Director of Afghan Women on the Move, and Domestic Violence Prevention Officer at SydWest Multicultural Services, Ms Maryam Popal Zahid, has been named 2019 Blacktown Woman of the Year. Due to the number of outstanding candidates, a new category, highly commended, was introduced this year and was awarded to registered nurse and senior lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Western Sydney University, Dr Olayide Ogunsiji. Ms Zahid, a proud Peace Ambassador with the International Women`s Peace Group said she was honoured with the nomination and will work hard within the community to make a positive influence. “I’m very much privileged, this means a lot to me,” Ms Zahid Said. “It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to serve the community and I will try my best to inspire other women. “When you are able to acknowledge that we have women with voices but also many women without voices, you can then begin to make a change.” In 2017 Blacktown City Council established a Women’s Advisory Committee to provide advice on issues relevant to women. Chairperson of the Women’s Advisory Committee, Councillor Julie Griffiths, said the culturally diverse committee aims to further highlight the crucial role women play in Blacktown City. “We are a dynamic group of women committed to providing a forum where the issues and needs of women can be raised and discussed,” she said. “It’s with great pleasure that we present Maryam Popal Zahid with this award and recognise the skills and achievements of all the nominees.” Blacktown City Mayor, Stephen Bali, said all the nominees were a true product of the multicultural City of Blacktown. “I congratulate the 2019 Blacktown Woman of the Year, Ms Zahid, and our Highly Commended award winner, Dr Olayide Ogunsiji, and thank all

Councillor Julie Griffiths, Blacktown Woman of the Year Maryam Popal Zahid, Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali.

of the nominees for their ongoing contribution and outstanding work in our community,” Mayor Bali said. “Their talents and community work have made an indelible impression on the award judges,” he said. 2019 Blacktown City Women of the year finalists Lisa Gobo Ms Gabo works on the Community Hubs Australia project for Settlement Services International and is the Community Hub leader at Colyton Public School in Mount Druitt. Focusing on Cross Cultural engagement and using First Nations approaches Lisa creates a gathering place where all ancestors are honoured, every voice is heard and everybody matters. Ms Gabo is a long-time resident of Blacktown and is in the final stages of a BA in Community Development. She has six years’ experience working with marginalised and vulnerable communities in local

community centres across the Blacktown LGA. Dr Olayide Ogunsiji Dr Ogunsiji is a registered nurse and senior lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University. She migrated from Nigeria to Australia in 1999 with a Sociology degree and experience as a Lecturer. As a new migrant, she was unable to gain employment and was turned down on several occasions due to a lack of local experience. After several unsuccessful attempts at getting a job, she went back to University to gain new qualifications resulting in a successful career path. Jane Attard-Taylor In 2014 Ms Attard- Taylor decided to change her career path to work in an industry that she felt passionately about. Jane attained a Cert III, IV and diploma in Community Services at Nirimba TAFE and is now working as a Program coordinator at the Blacktown Women and Girls Health

Centre. She has been deeply moved by the large number of women and children affected by domestic violence. Jane is a strong advocate for reducing domestic violence against women in the community. Maryam Popal Zahid Ms Zahid’s work focuses on gender, women’s rights and the displacement of Afghan diaspora around the world. She is also a volunteer advocate for human rights, health, justice, and promotion of democratic values. She is currently working as a Domestic Violence Prevention Officer at SydWest Multicultural Services to reduce violence against women and their children in Afghanistan, Indian and South Sudanese communities. She is also the founder and director of Afghan Women on the Move Pty Ltd. The organisation supports women and girls outside religious and community influences to help them have a voice and become socially, economically and emotionally independent.

› On Demand services connecting people to the station Getting to the new Sydney Metro Northwest and to Schofields station will be simpler and more convenient for commuters in The Ponds and Schofields, with the launch of On Demand services connecting people from the area to the station. “In peak times, there will be a Metro service every four minutes, allowing commuters to turn up and go. Instead of relying on a timetable, On Demand Transport will let Northwest Metro commuters book a service which picks them up from close to home and takes them to their nearest metro station,” said Kevin Conolly, Member for Riverstone. For commuters in The Ponds and Schofields, Busways will operate On Demand services to Tallawong and Rouse Hill Metro stations, and

Schofields Station. “This will encourage more people out of their cars and onto public transport”, said Mr Conolly. Services will operate on Weekdays from 5am 9pm. Separately, commuters in nearby Glenwood, Bella Vista, and parts of Baulkham Hills and Castle Hill will be able to connect with Norwest, Bella Vista, and Hills Showground Metro stations. The On Demand services will launch in line with the first Metro service later this year. Commuters will be able to pay using their credit or debit card when booking through the app. Sydney Metro Northwest is the first stage of Sydney Metro and will be the first fully-automated metro rail system in Australia.

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CCORDING to the NSW Liberals, hundreds of Marsden Park families will benefit from a record investment in education, with a new high school at Marsden Park announced recently. Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly and Liberal candidate for Londonderry Belinda Hill have announced that planning will begin for a new high school in Marsden Park to support the growing local community. Ms Hill said she was thrilled with the commitment to deliver a new high school to meet the needs of the growing number of young families coming into the area. “A site for the school has already been set aside as part of the Marsden Park development and undertaking planning early ensures that we are delivering the education infrastructure for this growing community when it is needed.” “The NSW Liberals & Nationals have already announced we will provide a new primary school for Marsden Park, and now those students will be able to attend the new local high school when the time comes as well,” Ms Hill said. Mr Conolly said the NSW Liberals approach to planning schools was in

stark contrast to Labor. “We are providing facilities that allow students to achieve their best whilst at school. When they were last in power, Labor shut 90 schools and left the others to fall into disrepair. It is only the NSW Liberals & Nationals that are able to deliver for public

education in NSW,” Mr Conolly said. “This is the largest investment in public school infrastructure by any State Government in Australian history and ensures NSW will continue to have the best schools in the country.” “In addition to the record-

breaking school building program, the NSW Liberals have committed an unprecedented investment to eliminate the school maintenance backlog so that every public school in the State provides the worldclass facilities that our students and teachers deserve.”

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Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

New high school announced for Marsden Park

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

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From the Editor’s Desk By KeRRIE DAVIES

Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Sales: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

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Prospect

hen footy teams are up against the Panthers, I’ll bet most go in with a goal of targeting Nathan Cleary.

Why? Because a strategy of trying to buckle the Panthers at its greatest strength point is their best chance of winning. That same strategy appears to have been applied by NSW Labor, with Penrith MP Stuart Ayres being the poster boy for their entire campaign. The Ayres name has been weaved into every Labor statement about every Labor policy, he’s talked about more often than the Premier. There’s barely a sentence in any press release coming from any corner of the state that doesn’t mention him. This is the last edition before the state election, so forgive me for boring you with politics, for those focused on the election, it sure has been a curly ride. Perhaps there will be a rise in the vote for the minor parties and the independents. People are certainly less engaged than usual, which provides the perfect conditions for a well-known individual to storm across the line. Labor’s biggest hope comes in the form of the “bring-back-our-festivals” vote. A powerful number of our youth believe the NSW Government are a pack of funspoilers, and they present a pretty fair argument to support that when you look at what the lock out laws have done to our city. Now festivals are being targeted and they’re not happy. Some other vote-winners for Labor are hospital ratio policies and free school transport. Time will tell whether voters think the Labor Leader’s threat to sack Alan Jones and co was a smart move..... or political suicide. I can’t imagine too many real estate agents, investors or those even thinking about investing will think that Labor’s “end to no fault evictions” is a reason to go rushing to cast a vote for them. The Coaliton’s biggest hope comes in the form of those who believe that under their watch, NSW is booming. Things are getting done. The old saying that “politicians never do anything” faded away pretty quickly under this government. Their biggest chance at being returned is in those who don’t want to risk changing to a premier who is essentially still on L Plates. And they’d be counting on people remembering that under Labor, we still had tolls, we still had hospital waiting lists and many would say, NSW wasn’t really booming. The beauty of being an aussie is that whoever you decide to vote for this election is entirely your choice. I really hope people will take advantage of living in a democracy that allows them that choice and consider their vote carefully. There’s some misinformation going around social media at the moment that if everyone was to write a certain sentence across the ballot, then every representative across the state for each major party would be sacked - and a new set of candidates would have to nominate. Can I just tell you that this is pure garbage. For that to happen every single candidate would have to receive zero votes. Do you think the candidates themselves would not vote for themselves? Of course not, it is a silly social media post. Stop sharing that rubbish. On March 23, be happy when you line up at the local school to cast your ballot we live in the greatest nation in the world, in the greatest state in the country. Make your vote count!

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Western News

› Showgirl 2019 finalists announced

By KeRRIE DAVIES

Metro rail line to the new Western Sydney Airport will be complete in time for the Airport’s opening in 2026 under the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government, the NSW Premier has declared. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said because of the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government’s strong economic management more than $2 billion will be invested in the North South Rail Line over the next four years. “We know the Western Sydney Airport and the Aerotropolis are the future of Sydney and that is why we are making the investment now for construction on the rail line to begin in 2021,” Ms Berejiklian said. “The North South Rail Line will run from St Marys through to the Airport, connecting Sydney in a way that has never happened before. “At the same time we are building the crucial road links and are investing $3.6 billion to build the new M12 motorway and upgrade existing roads including the Northern Road and Bringelly Road. “The Aerotropolis will create 200,000 jobs and only the NSW Liberals & Nationals can be trusted to build the transport links needed to support this growing region.” The development of a business case for the North South Rail line is already progressing. Minister for Transport and Infrastructure

Andrew Constance said the government had a good track record. “During its time in office Labor promised 12 rail lines, but did not deliver a single one in full,” Mr Constance said. “This Government has a track record of delivering. The Metro Northwest rail line is due to open within months, while tunnelling is underway on the Metro City & South West projects.” The North South Rail line will link up with the existing Sydney Train T1 Western Line at St Marys and form the start of a future rail line across Sydney. Stage 1 will run from St Marys Station through Western Sydney Airport to the new Aerotropolis – this will provide a convenient interchange with the existing Sydney Trains T1 Western Line. The NSW Government will fund half of the cost of the line, with the remainder to be funded by the Commonwealth under the Western Sydney City deal.

*Valid until 15th August 2019, not to be used in conjuction with any other offer.

L-R: Sabrina Kay Andalis, Desiree Autor 2018 Winner, Wilma Drower Coordinator , Paula Cuyugan, Monique Smit

Congratulations have to be made to the three finalists of this year’s Blacktown City Showgirl Quest, sponsored by Western News and Dr. Alex Kolozsy. The judges were Greg McCullum, Eric Lim, Suzanne Goldsmith and Rissa McInnes. President of the Show Society and Showgirl coordinator Wilma Drower said she would like to congratulate all the girls. She has invited the public to meet the girls who will be introduced on the Westpoint Stage this Saturday at 1pm, with the very popular Natasha’s Arts Theatre also entertaining on stage. The winner will be announced at 2.45pm on Saturday March 23, after the official opening. The showgirl will be an ambassador for Blacktown Show Society and Blacktown City and will represent the society at the zone competition and if successful will continue to represent at the Royal in 2020.

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Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

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Blacktown City – 40th Anniversary

hursday 7 March 2019 marked 40 years to the day when Blacktown was proclaimed a City. Previously it was Blacktown Shire Council and the Municipality of Blacktown before being proclaimed a city in 1979 by the Governor of NSW, Sir Roden Cutler VC AK KCMG KCVO CBE. At the time, what is now Blacktown City had a population of 160,000 people and the Mayor was a young local school teacher, John Aquilina. Blacktown City now has a population in excess of 360,000. The Mayor is Cr. Stephen Bali MP and the Hon. John Aquilina UOM, is Malta’s ambassador to China, The Philippines and Vietnam. Blacktown City has one of the most diverse populations in Australia with people from 188 birthplaces speaking 182 different languages. The population is projected to grow to more than 520,000 by 2036, surpassing the current population of Tasmania. Blacktown City has the highest economic growth rate in Australia with a $17-billion economy that is adding over 100 jobs a week to our workforce. Blacktown City’s 40th anniversary was celebrated at a dinner on Thursday hosted by Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP that brought together former Mayors, current and former Councillors, current and former Parliamentarians, local community representatives and current and former staff members some of whom have been with Council for all of those 40-years. Mayor Stephen Bali paid tribute to the Mayors that steered Blacktown in

Past and present Mayors and Councillors at the 40th Anniversary dinner.

its first decade as a city; “The 197787 councils under the Mayorships of John Aquilina, Jim Lynch and Leo Kelly saw massive investment in roads, bridges, senior citizens centres, community halls and sporting grounds. “The work that the Councillors and council staff did under their stewardship provided the solid foundations and rapid growth and development that resulted in the Blacktown City we have today. “Today’s Council continues the wonderful traditions and the hard work of the past.” Mayor Bali pointed to the recent announcement that Australian Catholic University will partner Council in establishing a university campus in Blacktown CBD, the redevelopment of the Warrick Lane precinct and the planned International Centre of Training Excellence as three key projects in the transformation of Blacktown City. Mayor Bali paid tribute to the people of Blacktown City; “What makes our City a truly successful multicultural society has been the community spirit of our people.”

Former Mayor, the Hon John Aquilina spoke of the early days of Blacktown City when it could affect a person’s work prospects if they told prospective employers they came from Blacktown. “Building a city is about people and community and it’s about building community consciousness and taking pride in community achievements,” he said. “I was proud to be called ‘the Boy from Blacktown’ when I entered State Parliament in 1981 and now wherever I am in the world and somebody asks me where I’m from, I always say ‘I’m from Blacktown in Western Sydney. “I am so proud to be from Blacktown and to see what Blacktown has become. Now to have a university is a fulfilment of the vision we all had 40 years ago.” Former Mayor Aquilina was the State’s second longest serving Education Minister. He is proudly of Maltese heritage and is forging a successful diplomatic career representing Malta in India, China, the Philippines and Vietnam. Blacktown City Council CEO Kerry Robinson said he became a

member of the Blacktown family when his family moved to the area more than 50 years ago. Both Kerry Robinson and Mayor Bali attended Doonside Primary School and Doonside High School. “Neither of us thought that we would end up in the positions that we are now privileged to hold. “Progress was taking place from the moment I called Blacktown home. And progress has continued every day since.” Mr Robinson paid tribute to Council staff in playing a huge role in Blacktown’s past, present and future; “More than 2,000 staff members; mowing the parks, cleaning the streets, teaching our children the swim, performing our statutory functions and providing services to the elderly.” Former Mayors attended the dinner including Alan Pendleton, Russ Dickens, Michael Corbin as well as family members of Mayors who have passed away. Past and present Parliamentarians included Michelle Rowland, John Robertson, Paul Gibson, Richard Amery and Allan Shearan.

Developer lodges appeal, heating up incinerator debate

ABOR Candidate for Mulgoa, Todd Carney has come out firing following an appeal being lodged by the developer of the Western Sydney Incinerator. “The developer, Next Generation, is taking the government to court to get the incinerator approved,” Mr Carney said. “Because of the NSW Liberal’s broken planning laws, the developer can continually reapply for approval, meaning under the Liberals this toxic incinerator will eventually be built. “Western Sydney is not a dumping ground. But the Liberals are treating us this way. Why won’t Liberal politician Tanya Davies do anything to stop this toxic incinerator?” Recently Tanya Davies MP accused Labor of scaremongering after Opposition Leader Michael Daley visited Western Sydney to commit to an incinerator ban. “Tanya Davies is the worst kind

Todd Carney and Labor Leader Michael Daley meeting with locals to oppose the incinerator

of politician, she doesn’t even fight for Western Sydney when there’s an election on.” Mr Carney said. “If Tanya Davies had any selfrespect, she would apologise to locals for doing nothing and finally get off her backside and act.” However, Tanya Davies repeated

her view that Labor’s position was one of scaremongering and said the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is against the plan for an incinerator at Eastern Creek. “It has been outright rejected by every government agency including the Independent Planning

Commission and I’m confident it will be rejected by the Land and Environment Court,” Mrs Davies said. “Labor has falsely accused me of supporting this project. They are lying and putting fear in my community, scaremongering for their own political gain. I will continue to fight for my community. “I will not lie, intimidate or frighten my community as Labor is attempting to do,” Mrs Davies said. If elected, the Opposition Leader said A Daley Labor Government will introduce legislation within its first 100 days to “once and for all ban the proposed Western Sydney Incinerator.” Mr Carney said Labor is the only major party at this election committed to stopping an incinerator being built. “No incinerator means no incinerator. Labor will ban this project.” Mr Carney said.

Blacktown City Show Blacktown ShowgrounD richmond road, blacktown

Saturday 23RD & Sunday 24TH MARCH 2019

IT’S SHOWTIME! This year’s Blacktown City Show is here again BIGGER – BETTER - BRIGHTER with lots of fun for the whole family. Don’t miss one of Blacktown’s major attractions and help us celebrate the shows 96th Anniversary. For all the attractions, we have your 12 page lift out right here, complete with the programme. Western News is very proud to be associated with this major community event.

DON’T MISS THE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR! Saturday 8.45pm Proudly sponsored by the The Blacktown City Council

FREE ENTRY Courtesy of Westpoint Blacktown

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Blacktown City Show

Dream Team One The King Lives On! Matthew Avery – A Blue Mountains boy

Matthew started singing at the age of 14 when he performed the role of Javert for his school’s production of Les Miserables.

SATURDA 7.15PM

Kate Simpson – Kate is another Blue Mountains talent from Blaxland. A year 12 student at Blaxland High School where she performed the role of Ellen in Miss Saigon as well as performing in their recent production of Footloose. Natasha Tatarinoff – Fifteen-year-

old Natasha Tatarinoff gave her first stage performance was at the age of 7 at Wentworthville RSL for a talent showcase for the Maltese Cultural Community. She sang Baby Baby by Justin Bieber accompanied by her five-year-old brother doing the rap section.

Arena McLellan – Arena has just turned

19 and started singing when she was 5. Her first performance was at her school talent quest at age 5 where she sang “Puppet On a String” – Elvis Presley. She started to sing professionally at age 10.

David Cazalet As Elvis

David was born in New York, the 4th son of an American sailor and his Australian war bride. From a very young age David would amuse his family and friends with his rendition of Elvis’ songs. This amusement turned to amazement as David’s voice and appearance developed an uncanny resemblance to that of Elvis. Today David Cazalét is not just another Elvis impersonator, but an entertainer of astounding ability and charisma, his voice is unquestionably the best in his field with all the range, warmth and feel so reminiscent of Elvis. Wherever David has performed throughout the world – be it Resort Hotels, Casinos or Corporate Events he has left a unique impression with both entertainment agents and the general public alike, ensuring repeat engagements and many adoring fans. David has proven time and again that he can perform in any environment and walk off the stage a winner. David is the consummate professional and takes pride in

SATURDA 7.45PM

working with musicians, dancers, singers and production staff the equal of anywhere in the world. He has worked very hard to attain his position in the entertainment world and I’m sure that when you see him perform you will agree… “The King Lives in Cazalét”.

Blacktown City Show the

Carol Heuchan Carol Heuchan is a lady of many hats. She has been a professional horsewoman for most of her life, training riders and show horses and competing successfully in thirty-four Royal Easter Shows. She is also a highly qualified National Judge and has judged internationally. In 2003, her first book was published and led her to the world of Bush Poetry which she took by storm, amassing a swag of awards. Twice Australian Champion and nine times Laureate award winner, five books and five CD’s (all award winning), she is also the winner of the richest prize in poetry history – a thirtyfour thousand dollar tractor! Carol has been on the winning team in the World Poetry Debate and has been part of numerous Australia-wide radio programs and featured in the ABC television series “Bush Slam”, shown many times on national prime time television. She has just completed her twelfth International per formance tour of the U.S. and has another awaiting confirmation.

Stage - Sponsored by Telstra Store Seven Hills

Carol also has numerous bookings for some of the biggest events in the Southern Hemisphere for 2019. Needless to say, Carol Heuchan is in great demand as an entertainer, compere, writer, guest speaker, judge of horses and poetry, and horse events commentator (anything to get out of housework, she says!) You may have heard her voice at the Royal Easter Show where she was the very popular Main Arena Commentator for six years. Carol has had a long association with Agricultural Shows. Combining this connection and passion with her talent at the microphone, ensures Blacktown Show will be worth listening to!

The Telstra Stage, sponsored by the Telstra Store Seven Hills, will be buzzing with activity at this year’s Show. The Stage will feature the official opening, crowning of the Blacktown Showgirl Quest, local Dance and Singing Groups and a demonstration from Blacktown City Judo Club. We welcome back Blacktown City Community Band, Mt Druitt Aboriginal Indigenous Choir,

the Maori Cultural Dance Group, the Bolivian Dance Group and Tribal Drum an African Drumming Group from Blacktown Girls High. Our major attractions on Saturday night are “Dream Team One” the Stars of the future and back by popular demand, Elvis in Concert featuring David Cazalet. Our Search for a Star Talent Quest will command the Stage on the Sunday.

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

The Voice of the Show -

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Blacktown City Show

The Wood Chips Fly Sponsored by Blacktown RSL One of Australia’s oldest professions, and one of Blacktown City’s favourite sports in earlier times, is again one of the attractions at this year’s Blacktown City Show. In the early days no-one thought of woodchopping as a sport, just another novelty show attraction. Brawny, hard-drinking axemen took part in informal contests, but there were no rules as such. Gradually rules did evolve and by the beginning of the century, woodchopping became established as an important event at any big show in Australia and New Zealand. The advent of the chainsaw ended the era of the axemen in the forests but the sport lives on and is still thriving in Australia.

Ras’s working & high jumping dogs

Ras’s working & high jumping dogs will be at this year’s show with demonstrations of not only man’s best friend’s amazing ability to handle and muster stock but also you can bring your own pooch along for the high jumping contest. Kylie & Darren Adams, both successful competitors in cattle dog trialling, will have their dogs on hand and explain some of their training techniques and how & why working dogs are used on farms around Australia every day. The dogs used are known as New Zealand short haired collies (think Footrot flats) and bred solely for their knack to control all kinds of livestock, from sheep & goats to cattle & the ducks that will be used today. The light hearted yet informative demonstration starts with basic breaking-in methods through

to actually working a flock of ducks within meters of the crowd with two dogs working as one to manoeuvre the ducks under the control of their master. At the end of each show Darren & Kylie will bring the dogs out into the crowd so as the young & old alike can get up close and have a pat with these amazing hounds. Not only will you see working displays but also a high jumping competition in which you can enter your own dog to try and scale the wall and be declared champion. The contest is open to all dogs and they must clear a wall that increases in height with each successful attempt. Ras’s dogs have been named champion high jumping dog at the Sydney Royal Easter Show three times and have jumped over 2.5m high.

As well as the collie’s jumping we will also have some little mini foxie’s jumping incredible heights that are sure to be a crowd favourite. Once again you are more than welcome to come up and say Gday for a ‘Pat & Chat’ after the show.

Blacktown City Show

Sydney Antique Machinery Club is back again this year. They will be easy to find by the sound of old engines running like they did when Grandpa was a boy. Come and have a look and a yarn with the Club members who have brought a few samples of their hobby for you to enjoy in a good restoration they run as badly as they did when they were new. Tell them about your own favourite memory of old machinery from when you were growing up in the (so called) good old days. The Club was formed to bring together people with an interest in old machinery, particularly old engines and tractors and the equipment driven by them. The Club promotes the preservation and restoration of this equipment and its members provide advice and assistance to each other. The Club meets monthly at Hawkesbury Showground, between Windsor & Richmond and organises one major rally each year on the third weekend in September. They also attend many events run by other organisations, and conduct displays of their machinery. A 1/3 scale Fowler traction engine, built by one of our members, will be moving around the Showground and is worth a close look when you see it.

Blacktown Art & Craft Group is a non-profit group intended to help those in our community who are interested in arts and crafts and enjoy the social interaction within our community based group. Blacktown Art & Craft Group have been conducting classes and meetings in their air conditioned rooms at “The Trevor Toms Pavilion”, Blacktown Showground since January 1975, conducting classes in Art, Folk Art, Silk Painting, Pottery, Crochet, Needlework, Patchwork, Quilting, Knitting and any craft you may like to bring along including all u.f.o’s. Come and Join our Social and Friendly group. For Meeting times please contact… • Art - Dawn Robson 9654 0570 • Fibre Group - B.A.C.G 9622 7589 • Pottery 9624 4879 or 0403354162 • Mixed Media - Tania Hetaraka 0434723700 Address: - The Trevor Toms Pavilion Blacktown Show Ground Entry via Kent Street Blacktown. For more information please contact the B.A.C.G by:- Phone 9622 7589. Email brendajde@ yahoo.com.au www.facebook.com/Blacktown-Art-CraftsGroup-Inc-152302666465/

Animal Farmyard Nursery Fun

A popular spot at the Blacktown City Show with the young at heart is the Animal Farm Nursery. We would like to welcome Rhonda Hall, the principal of All Animals – Animal Farm Nursery, who is again organising this year’s display. Rhonda will have many new animals at the Show as well as the old favourites. With over 20 years experience, Rhonda said her main aim is to let children relate to animals in the most positive way. It also gives children a chance to groom, feed and care for a great variety of animals, teaching them respect for all creatures and minimises the chance of accidents, Rhonda said. Finally we try to leave them with wonderful memories that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Be sure to visit All Animals Animal Farm Nursery at this year’s Show.

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Antique Machinery

Blacktown Arts & Craft Group Inc (B.A.C.G.)

Blacktown City Show Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Black Show PRO

DISPLAYS ARE CONTINU HORTICULTURE PAVILION •

SATURDAY 23RD MARCH 2019 9.00am 11.00am

GATES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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PROFESSOR WALLACE’S PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL Club

11.30am

WORKING DOG DEMONSTRATION & DOG HIGH JUMP - On Trotting Track JD’S WORLD OF MAGIC - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown Workers SUPERHEROES (Meet and Greet) - Telstra Stage

11.30am 12 noon 2.00pm 2.00pm 2.30pm 2.30pm

3.00pm 3.00pm 3.30pm

LOCAL JUDO CLUB DEMONSTRATION - Telstra Stage WORKING DOG DEMONSTRATION & DOG HIGH JUMP - On Trotting Track TRIBAL DRUM - Telstra Stage PROFESSOR WALLACE’S PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL JD’S WORLD OF MAGIC - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown Workers NATASHA’S ARTS THEATRE - Telstra Stage BOLIVIAN DANCE GROUP - Telstra Stage MAORI CULTURAL DANCE GROUP - Telstra Stage MT DRUITT ABORIGINAL INDIGENOUS CHOIR - Telstra Stage NATASHA’S ARTS THEATRE - Telstra Stage BLACKTOWN CITY COMMUNITY BAND - Telstra Stage DREAM TEAM ONE – Stars of the future - Telstra Stage ELVIS IN CONCERT - Telstra Stage

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4.00pm

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PROFESSOR WALLACE’S PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL

2.45pm

3.30pm

• Retail & Wholesale • Fresh Meat • Fruit & Vegetable • Fresh Chicken • Grocery Lines • Frozen Foods • SmallGoods

WOODCHOPPING DEMO - Commences in front of President’s room Sponsored by Blacktown RSL Club

FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR - Centre Ring Sponsored by Blacktown City Council

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Blacktown City Show

NUOUS THROUGHOUT THE SHOW • ARTS & CRAFT • PHOTOGRAPHY • COOKING SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 2019 9.00am 9.00am 10.00am 11.30am 12 noon 12.30pm 1.30pm 2.00pm 2.30pm 3.00pm 3.30pm 4.15pm

GATES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC UTE MUSTER JUDGING COMMENCES - Trotting Track SEARCH FOR A STAR TALENT QUEST COMMENCES - Telstra Stage Sponsored by NAB – Vintage FM – Western News PROFESSOR WALLACES PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL JD’S WORLD OF MAGIC- Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown Workers SEARCH FOR A STAR TALENT QUEST Continues - Telstra Stage Sponsored by NAB – Vintage FM – Western News PROFESSOR WALLACES PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL JD’S WORLD OF MAGIC - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown Workers PRESENTATION TO THE WINNERS OF THE UTE MUSTER - in front of President’s room CHARITY AUCTION – STRUGGLING FARMERS - In front of President’s room SEARCH FOR A STAR TALENT QUEST – FINALISTS - Telstra Stage Sponsored by NAB – Vintage FM – Western News PRESENTATION TO THE WINNERS OF THE TALENT QUEST - Telstra Stage

TELSTRA STAGE – Sponsored by Telstra Store Seven Hills ST JOHN AMBULANCE SERVICE – Sponsored by Best Care Medical Clinic SHEEP SHEARING DEMONSTRATIONS – Sponsored by Kakateeya Indian Restaurant HORTICULTURE PAVILION – Sponsored by Turtle Nursery AUSTRALIA’S LIVING HISTORY – History will come Alive at the Show LIVE REPTILE DISPLAY • VILLAGE BLACKSMITH ALL ANIMALS ANIMAL FARM NURSERY • ANTIQUE MACHINERY AMATEUR BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION NSW PARRAMATTA WORKING DOG DEMONSTRATIONS • DOG HIGH JUMP DEMONSTRATION THE VOICE OF THE SHOW – Carol Heuchan INTERSTATE ENTERTAINERS & OFFICIALS STAY AT THE TRAVELODGE BLACKTOWN THE BLACKTOWN CITY SHOW SOCIETY INC. RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE OR CANCEL ANY PART OF THE PROGRAMME OR SCHEDULED TIMES OF PERFORMANCE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

ktown City OGRAMME

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Blacktown City Show

MAORI CULTURAL GROUP

TRIBAL DRUM

“TRIBAL DRUM” is the African Drumming Group from Blacktown Girls High School. The group was established in 2012 by the school’s Music Teacher, Sue Kennedy. It features traditional African hand drums known as Djembes and bass drums known as Dun Duns. Tribal Drum plays a mixture of traditional West African rhythms

and original compositions. The group has performed at numerous community events including Relay for Life, Refugee Week, Blacktown City Festival, Blacktown Festival of Performing Arts, 100 Years of Women in Policing and Mamre Good Living Festival. For more information contact Blacktown Girls High School on 9831 7577.

Levi Pendlebury The Village Blacksmith Te Kakano o Te Atua is a family friendly Kapahaka Group (Maori Cultural Group) based in Doonside. The group was started in backyards and garages around the Blacktown area to ensure that children born and raised in Australia kept ties with their Maori heritage and culture with songs from New Zealand. They have been operating for 15 years and have put smiles on many a face with their performances. They are a family friendly group who welcome new members regardless of age or race. Practice is on Monday nights every week from 6.30-8.30pm at the Doonside Neighbourhood Centre.

The understanding of metal is as important part of our history as farming or agricultural. I’ve believed this since I was 13 when I first saw a blacksmith. Now at 32, it gives me great pleasure to share some of my knowledge and metalworks to the public. Learn about the first tools, and how the industrial revolution began, and be lucky enough to take some thing home made by Levi, the village blacksmith.

Blacktown City Show

The Blacktown City Show Committee welcomes ‘Live Reptile Displays’ to the Blacktown City Show. ‘Live Reptile Displays’ is owned and operated by John Cann and Andrew Melrose. ‘Live Reptile Displays’ are located in Sydney. They are available for work within the Sydney metropolitan area and the Illawarra. Together they have over 60 years experience working with reptiles. They are fullty licensed, experienced reptile handlers and relocators. Fully licenced with A00001 number. Their licence number indicates they were the very first reptile licensed educators in NSW. John and Andrew strongly believe in educating the public about

reptile awareness, management and conservation. Their aim is to provide customers with a fun and educational experience with reptiles. They achieve this by providing the correct education and facts about reptiles to their audience. The information they provide describes what to do and what not to do around reptiles and first aid education is included. Reptiles can be a difficult animal to promote. Part of their objective is to highlight the many positive aspects of reptiles, especially snakes, which often have a poor image. They want people to respect snakes and understand their importance in our environment.

JD’S WORLD OF MAGIC

Joining the Blacktown Show Entertainment this year is Magician Joel Howlett from JD’s World Of Magic. Joel is a full time professional performer who over the last 15 years has been hugely popular performing at both Schools and Corporate Events all over Australia. He has appeared on TV (Under Cover Boss, Today Show, Hey Hey It’s Saturday, Mornings With Kerri Anne and the Disney Channel), Performed

Internationally (USA and NZ), Given Magic Lectures for his Peers and in 2018 he was given the CONDA (City Of Newcastle Drama Association) Award for “BEST THEATRICAL EVENT OF 2018”. At the Blacktown Show Joel is guaranteed to delight the young and the young at heart! His show includes a live rabbit, audience participation, world class sleight of hand and more fun than you could wave a wand at!

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

LIVE REPTILE DISPLAYS

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Blacktown City Show 2019 BLACKTOWN CITY SHOW UTE MUSTER & THE CAR AND WESTERN SYDNEY HISTORICAL TRUCK CLUB DISPLAY

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Offering a nostalgic yet new experience with the latest Hollywood blockbusters, ‘Happy Days’ style retro diner and a truly unique night of fun!

The Blacktown Show committee wish everyone the very best of luck. The number of categories to be judged will be 15 categories with trophies presented to the Winners, 2nd and 3rd in each category. 1. Best Work Ute 2. Best Feral Ute 3. Best B&S Style Ute 4. Best Chicks Ute* 5. Best Chicks Rural /Country

6. Best Vintage/Classic Ute 7. Best 4WD Ute 8. Best Holden Ute 9. Best Ford Ute 10. Best Street Ute 12. Best Town Ute

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Thanks to event organisers Trevor & Wilma Drower, the Ute Muster is a major attraction at the Show each year. We would like to thank everyone involved in this event – the Clubs, the Ute owners, the Sponsors and the Volunteers – in anticipation of another great spectacle and a fun day for all.

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Blacktown City Show

Sponsored by Blacktown RSL

Hey Kids! Guess who’s coming to this year’s Blacktown City Show? It’s Prof. Wallace’s Puppet Theatre! Prof. Wallace’s Puppet Theatre is one of the oldest continuous performing acts in Australia.

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Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

St John Ambulance

Prof. Wallace’s Puppet Theatre

The origins go back over 100 years when your great grandparents were kids. He is not only part of puppet history but a part of Australian history.

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Western News

ENTERTAINMENT

SUDOKU: EASY INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every

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GUINEA PIG

GERBIL

CAT

BIRD

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HAMSTER

SNAKE

LIZARD

FISH

IGUANA

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FERRET

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Retaliatory strikes (14) 10 Gawked (5) 11 A musical instrument with 3 strings (9) 12 Breadwinners (7) 13 Willingly obedient (7) 14 Sag (5) 16 Lenient (9) 19 Apparently (9) 20 Get to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feet (5) 22 Punches of sweetened milk and eggs (7) 25 Unrestrained (7) 27 Dancer (9) 28 Due (5) 29 Sins (14)

solution 1/3/19

down 2 Deliberate (2 words) (9) 3 Gentle push (5) 4 Stamping (9) 5 Afflicted (5) 6 Gossipers (9) 7 Steep high face of rock (5) 8 Type of onion (7) 9 Concurred (6) 15 Inmates (9) 17 Fantasies (9) 18 Radiation (9) 19 Ice containing milk (7) 21 Senility (6) 23 Helmet shaped (5) 24 Move about rapidly (5) 26 Native of New Zealand (5)

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

WORD SEARCH

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

WESTERN HISTORY

Sir Arthur Aimed High

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

ir Arthur Rutledge - Preacher, Barrister, Politician and Judge. He was born in August 1843 at Penrith, the son of James Rutledge a schoolmaster and his wife Lucy Ann née Field. Lucy was born at Castlereagh in December 1826 and died at Glebe in August 1896 at the age of 69. Arthur’s Wesleyan pastoral pursuits at Penrith were from an early age, but his father’s work took the family to Drayton on the Darling Downs in the Moreton Bay District from 1851-1855 and the family later moved to Sydney. Arthur began work in legal and mercantile occupations in 1859 at the age of 16, intending to enter the legal profession, however in 1865 at the age of 22 he was ordained a Wesleyan minister. He married his first wife, Mary Thomas Rabone at Surry Hills in March 1869. She was born in March 1848 in Tonga and died in June 1908. Arthur’s ministry took him to the rural areas of NSW and Brisbane where they settled around 1875. He left the ministry with the encouragement and support financially of George Cowlishaw (believed to be an architect in Sydney) to study law. Arthur was called to the Queensland Bar in 1878. Prior to his becoming a barrister, he contested the Parliamentary seat of North Brisbane, but he was elected for Enoggera along with (Sir) James Dickson at the general election of 1878, and when prominent Liberal politicians were persuaded to secure rural seats to win office for (Sir) Samuel Griffith, Arthur stood for the seat of Kennedy. With his ‘force and charm as a platform speaker’, he topped the polls in October 1883 and was appointed Attorney General in Sir Samuel Griffith’s ministry in November. Premier Griffith became his lifelong friend. He held that position until the ministry resigned in 1888. Following an electoral redistribution, Arthur’s anti-separatist stance found favour at Charters Towers and he was overwhelmingly returned in May 1888. The government however, lost office in June. When the Queensland parliament was invited to send delegates to the 1891 National Australasian Convention in Sydney, Arthur was chosen as one of its seven representatives. After his retirement from politics in May 1893 Arthur returned to the Bar. He accepted an appointment as Crown Prosecutor for the Southern Supreme Court in December 1895, but the attraction of politics proved too strong and he resigned his position and stood for Maranoa in March 1899. Promoted by the Wesleyan connections of the Brisbane Courier, he defeated the popular Independent Labour incumbent Robert King. Arthur became Attorney-General in Dickson’s ministry and later that year he was appointed Q.C. Arthur was a member of the

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royal commission that scrutinized the draft code of criminal law and the bill to establish the code in 1899 and he introduced and carried legislation prepared by Premier Griffith. He was briefly out of office during the short tenure of the Dawson government in December 1899 and in 1901 he was Acting Premier. Arthur was knighted in June 1902 following the visit of the Duke and Duchess of York. When Robert Philp was forced to resign as Premier in September 1903, Arthur tried in vain to form a cabinet. He became leader of the Opposition when Robert declined, but he failed to secure the suburban seat of Nundah in the 1904 election. During 1904-05 he twice held commissions as an acting Judge of the Supreme Court. In March 1906 he was appointed Judge of District Courts and despite criticisms, he held this office for the rest of his life. During this period, he acted in rotation with his fellow Judges as Chairman of the Land Appeal Court. He was a painstaking, conscientious Judge and a ‘gentleman of the good old school’. Arthur married his second wife Rose Ann Davey in Melbourne in June 1910. Arthur died in Manly in February 1917, survived by his wife and three sons and four daughters of his first marriage. His body was entrained to Queensland, accompanied by Lady Rutledge and two of her sons. The Government of Queensland offered to convey the body over the railways at State charges and was accepted. The funeral was held in Brisbane and he was buried in Toowong Wesleyan cemetery. At his funeral a eulogy was read by A Meston who said. “The death of Sir Arthur Rutledge of Queensland recalls to me many memories of the by-gone years. About four weeks ago I met Sir Arthur and Lady Rutledge and we compared notes over the days when we were members of the Queensland Parliament in 1879. We were both returned in November 1878 - he for Enoggera and me for Rosewood. For three years we sat side by side on the front Cross Opposition benches with T. M. Donald Paterson and Bailey of Wide Bay. Arthur Rutledge came to Grafton in 1873 and was minister of the Wesleyan Church in Prince Street. With his intention of going to Queensland, I bought most of his furniture. Sir Arthur was a man with all the fine feelings and delicate intuitions and just sympathies of a gentleman, and the fine regard for the feelings of others, which after all is the one infallible sign of a gentleman”.

Sources: C. A. Bernays, Queensland Politics During Sixty (1859-1919) Years, R. Johnston, History of the Queensland Bar, Town and Country Journal, Brisbane Courier, Australian Royalty website, From a Distant Field book by Colin Field, Book (Version 3), New South Wales Births, Deaths & Marriages, J. C. H. Gill, ‘Rutledge, Sir Arthur (1843–1917)’,, Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, Rawsthorn Family Tree online.

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Western News

local columnists

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

First (and last) stop, Walmart

Drinks with the sandmen By BEN CRANNEY

uerto Vallarta in Mexico gets a lot of cruise ships. It’s easy to see why, as it’s a good base to explore nearby villages in the hills, enjoy the street art or the beach, maybe find a language school, and just generally experience a little bit of Mexico. A lot of cruise ship passengers come just for that reason, to find a little bit of authentic Mexico. The story goes that they do this by unloading for three hours and heading straight to Walmart, where they pick up little Mariachi figurines that are probably mass produced on a different continent. I don’t know if this is actually what happens, but Puerto Vallarta is a bit intimidating and I can see why some people might choose to do this.

Every corner along the waterfront had police or the military with automatic weapons. This was meant to make the tourists, nervous about the violence they see on the news, feel safe. Anyone pre-occupied with the safety precautions would have missed the sand sculptures along the beachfront. My favourite was the 20 meter long sandcastle of a scene from Super Mario Brothers, closely followed by the two meter tall Aztec calendar, also made from sand. The most impressive thing, was that these were opposite all night clubs, and none got damaged. Although I suppose even the drunkest person would think twice about causing trouble when there are a hundred machine guns within 500 meters. Interspersed with these were more permanent sculptures, beachfront cocktails, taco trucks and

Puerto Vallarta roofttops

street performers. It’s an easy place to base yourself for a couple of weeks, especially with the cheap (by Australian standards) language schools. In fact, my girl and I fell into this pattern so completely, that we didn’t make it to some of the beautiful and relatively empty beaches, like Las Animas, where real Mariachi wander the main resort section and a bit of a walk will find seclusion. Nor did we go to Playa Escondida, the hidden beach on Islas Marietas that is only accessible by swimming through a cave, or up into the hills to visit the little towns like Talpa, an old mining town and holy place, where people sometime pilgrimage for over 100 kilometers to see the Virgen del Rosario.

Super Mario Brothers

We did make it to Tequila, though, the hometown of the drink. It’s close enough to go for a couple of days, or to stop off at on the way to Guadalajara, the state’s capital. But I’ll tell you about these another time. Next time: over the other side of the Pacific

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel

When I Was a Child, I Thought as a Child

The other day, my husband and I had a rather complicated schedule, culminating in a much needed hair appointment for me in the early afternoon. David’s day started earlier than mine so we arranged that we would take two cars and that I would meet him in Richmond before running all our other errands together. As we were nearing home, I said “Well, that went smoothly. I just have enough time to grab a bite to eat and get back to the hairdresser’s.” “Oh my God!” we chorused. We had completely forgotten that my poor little car had been abandoned in a car park in town. David did a handbrake turn and we screamed back down the hill. The Friday afternoon traffic had started early and by the time I got to the salon just a bit late I was extremely hot and bother. I apologised profusely to the gorgeous Viktoria blaming senile dementia for the whole episode. “Nonsense,” said Vicki kindly. “You just have too much to think about.” What has this to do with a medium’s column you might ask yourself. Well, quite a bit actually. When I started out as a clairvoyant, the hardest thing was differentiating between my thoughts and messages from the other side. I questioned and second guessed everything. I had no idea if the automatic spirit writing was in fact from my grandmother and late husband even though I had samples of their script to compare, or whether the messages flowing from my pen were the ramblings of a rather psychotic

mind. I asked myself constantly why I should have this ability to talk to dead people. Why pick me? What singled me out? It was only thanks to a very difficult client that I learned to let go. I was rapidly running out of steam during the reading, but I took a deep breath. “Okay Gran. I haven’t a clue what I’m doing. Over to you.” As usual she saved the day. I didn’t question, I just passed on what she was giving me. And I haven’t looked back. I have always said that the best mediums I knew were a couple of elderly country ladies, including my own mentor, Mrs Butterfield. Both lived very simple lives and when they were working, they managed to tune out everything else so that Spirit could have easy

access. Their heads were not filled with to do lists, the school run or a demanding job. They just opened up and let the messages flow.. I am about halfway through my second book and I needed to think about ghostly happenings in my youth. A difficult task as I wasn’t the least bit psychic until my thirties. I suddenly realised that my spiritual development was actually the polar opposite to that of most youngsters. Young children, even babies, have a much stronger ability to see through that glass darkly than adults simply because they don’t find it odd. There are no preconceptions, no rational attempts to explain away the supernatural, just the realisation that someone is there with them. I, however, have absolutely no memory of anything psychic nor corporal until I started school at five years old. I know I was always a lonely child who found solace in books and different magical worlds, but I can’t remember anything at all before my fifth birthday. I don’t remember having friends or playing with other kids. Except, who was the little boy who came to see me? He had short brown hair parted at one side and was dressed in shorts, a white shirt and sandals and his name was Georgie. He was my constant companion, and I remember being astonished that nobody else could see him. Well, well, well. Maybe spirit was there after all. On with the next book. The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

Western News

How to buy property without a 20% deposit

hen you consider that a small flat in Sydney could set you back half a million dollars at the moment, saving a 20% deposit to buy that flat – $100,000 – can seem an insurmountable task. That’s where insurance can help. Lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) may be an added expense, but it offers buyers the opportunity to dive into the property market earlier, without saving up an entire 20 per cent of the property’s purchase price as a deposit. What is it? LMI protects the bank or lender, should a home loan go into default, guaranteeing that the lender will get its

money back if the property needs to be sold and there is a shortfall in repaying the loan. While a 20% deposit generally provides a good buffer against any drops in property value over the life of a loan, LMI can also provide the same protection, meaning borrowers can purchase property with a smaller deposit. What’s in it for you? For the borrower, it may seem LMI it is just another expense to cover. But insurance can mean that some buyers will be able to enter the property market with, for example, only a five per cent deposit saved. In the example above, a $500,000 property, this brings

the deposit down from $100,000 to just $25,000. And, if the market is hot and prices are rising rapidly, paying LMI so that you can buy now could be cheaper than taking the time to save a bigger deposit. In the time it takes to save a higher deposit amount, property prices may well have surged by more than cost of the insurance so, for some properties and purchasers, it can make good financial sense to purchase earlier even with the added cost of LMI, especially when you consider the rent that you would pay while you’re saving. What you need to know The insurance premium is generally a one-off payment, but you may be

@wealthwiz

able to roll it into the loan amount so that you are paying for it month-bymonth along with your mortgage. There can be a big difference between premiums paid if you have, for example, a 10 per cent deposit saved compared with a five per cent deposit, so it may well be worth trying to gather together some extra funds, even if you despair of reaching the full 20 per cent. Speak to Alex from Wealthwiz who is an MFAA-accredited finance broker and can help you investigate your options and working out whether to buy now or save extra deposit is a decision that meets your financial needs and options.

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SPORT

Blacktown open season with a victory in the derby By CONNER LOWE

la c k to w n City welcomed Mt Druitt Town Rangers to the National Premier Leagues NSW Mens competition with a 1-0 in extremely hot conditions at Lily Homes Stadium on Sunday. The match was scrappy from both teams but due to the heat it was hard for both teams to find their rhythm in their opening match of the season. It was Rangers with the first opportunity of the match when Toufic Allamaddine squared the ball for Hiten Satoh after showing some blistering speed down the sideline, however the shot was scuffed and never threatened the Blacktown goal. Blacktown begun to press high up the field and pin Mt Druitt back, which lead to multiple errors with City unable to capitalise throughout the opening minutes of the match. Leroy Jennings attempted bicycle kick was mistimed and Rangers managed to scramble it clear however, keeper Carlos Saliadarre was called in to action with an expert full length save to keep his side in the match. It was unfortunate circumstances that led to City taking the lead in the 38th minute when former Ranger Mani Gonzalez broke down the right and into the box. The low shot had beaten Saliadarre but rocketed off the post into Trimble and into the back of the net.

Mt Druitt had sporadic chances, but it was Blacktown who went to the break leading by the only goal of the match in a fiercely contested game that neither coach could have too many complaints about in a match dominated by the home side. There was a double substitution at the beginning of the second half that saw Giuliano Airoldi and Jordan Gomez come into the game. Not long after halftime though and Saliadarre was called in to action once more as Jackson Bandiera stole in down the left but the keeper was smartly down at his post to turn the ball away. With Rangers looking for an equaliser they played into

Blacktowns strengths and it was soon all City after and Saliadarre, in sparkling season opener form, thwarted Grant Lynch as another City attack was once more halted at the last. Fabricio Fernandez came close for Mt Druitt in the 78th minute when whistling a right-footed shot narrowly wide of Prendergast’s left upright in the closest the visitors had come and with City only leading by the solitary goal, there could yet be a sting in the tail in a thoroughly entertaining football match. The match finished 1-0 in Blacktown’s favour as they look to win the NPL championship again after a reasonably disappointing season last year.

mark

on the

SPORT

with MARK GEYER

Yeehaaaa the footy is back!

INALLY the footy is back! And not a second too soon. The off-season dramas have been more than documented so I’ll get my crystal ball out and try and predict where every team will finish this year in the NRL from 1-16. Let’s start at the bottom and work our way up. 16th - Warriors. Everything good that has happened in recent years in NZ has been inspired by Shaun Johnson, he’s at the Sharks. Couple that with their rock of Gibraltar Simon Mannering retiring and I think it’s a long year for Steve Kearnsy’s men. 15th - Titans. Sorry Brenno, but I’m worried about your outside backs. I’ll still come visit you on the ‘Goldie’ for a beer or two :-) 14th - Bulldogs. A young team who will take at least 12 months to mature and find any success. 13th - Raiders. Have gone from having the biggest forward back in the comp to the smallest, not sure how

this will affect them to be honest. 12th - Eels. After a year to forget I think the Eels will be THAT team that causes several upsets. 11th - Manly. An early injury to Tommy Turbo doesn’t help their cause but Des is back, and that’s a good thing. 10th - Cowboys. No JT will mean a year of adjustment for Paul Green’s men, they do have an amazing forward pack though. 9th - Tigers. New coach, new captain, an ageing roster... Tigers could win the comp or get the wooden spoon, it’s why I have them exactly where they were last year. 8th - Dragons. If they get their spine right they’ll be fine. The DeBelin saga is an obvious distraction. 7th - Storm. No Slater for mine is massive. Sure the GOAT Cam Smith is still there but gee they’re going to miss Billy big time! 6th - Knights. Have recruited like no other team ever has. If they don’t

 Bring on the footy!!

make the 8 there could be a new coach in Newcastle next year. 5th - Penrith. Had them higher but recent happenings will be a severe distraction. I hope I’m wrong. 4th - Sharks. Lost many but gained Shaun Johnson and Josh Morris. Cronulla are a club that just get the job done no matter what’s going on around them. 3rd. Souths. Wayne Bennett is a perfect fit for a team high on ability and potential.

2nd. Roosters. I’ve only got them here because of how hard it is to go back to back. Angus Crichton and Brett Morris great signings. 1st. Broncos. I think it’s the year of the Bronco. New coach, young powerful forwards, great outside backs. Giddyup. Footy’s back and that’s a GOOD thing. See you at the game.

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23 Western News 15 March 2019 Issue 80

Western News

Western News Friday, 15 March 2019

SPORT

Wanderers keep slim finals hopes alive By CONNER LOWE

wo goals from Oriol Riera has helped Western Sydney Wanderers to an excellent 4-1 win over the Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night. It was the Roar that were quickest out of the blocks, taking the lead inside seven minutes through in-form Wenzel-Halls. The 21-year-old did it all himself, driving at makeshift right-back Bruce Kamau, cutting inside onto his right foot and curling a strike into the far top corner. The Wanderers weren’t behind for long with Mitchell Duke finding the back of the net only eight minutes after falling behind. After being denied twice already by Jamie Young, Duke tried his luck from distance with his low striker squeezing through the hands of the Roar keeper and going in. The game was needing a spark with only 10 minutes remaining in the first half and it was the Wanderers Spanish forward Riera who set the Wanderers fans and bench crazy with a superbly taken volley. Bonevacia’s cross was a little behind the Spaniard but he produced an incredible hooked volley from the top of the box to put the Wanderers up 2-1. Riera than scored from close range only five minutes later only for the goal to initially be ruled out

for offside. However, replays showed Bonevacia’s cross skimmed off the head of Roar defender Jacob Pepper before the Wanderers striker tucked it home. Abraham Majok wasted the chance to extend the Wanderers’ lead early in the second half when

he blazed his shot over the bar from close range. Wanderers keeper Vedran Janjetovic had his skipper to thank for sparing his blushes soon after, with Brendan Hamill clearing Henrique’s shot off the line after the gloveman fumbled a high ball into the area. Despite Roar’s best efforts to get back into the match they were unable to create any serious goal threats, with the Wanderers finishing things off in the 90th minute through Bonevacia after a fantastic finish past Young into the bottom left of the goal. Markus Babbel, the Wanderers Head Coach spoke about the addition of forwards Duke and Kwame Yeboah as well as time to work with the youth brigade had meant the team had come in leaps and bounds since Round 1. “To be fair, I expect it because we have quality with Mitch and Kwame in the window and also our young players, they’ve improved,” he said. “They’ve been working eight or nine months with us now. If you see Keanu Baccus today, unbelievable game for him. It is great to see how they improve, how they play now and they are really helping the team.” The Western Sydney Wanderers now face Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium, on Sunday 17 March. The Wanderers will need to grab all three points in that match if they are to have any chance of reaching the finals.