ANEW bus layover in Blacktown opened recently, to help improve the reliability and efficiency of bus services in the area whilst also providing hardworking drivers with better facilities for meal and rest breaks.
Busways worked in partnership with Transport for NSW on design and development of the $14.6 million layover, which was built under the NSW Government’s Bus Priority Infrastructure Program.
The new state-of-the-art layover supplements existing layover facilities at Blacktown Interchange, enabling more efficient scheduling of meal breaks and positively supporting bus driver wellbeing with modern amenities to enjoy their breaks and refresh for the next part of their shift.
After a decade of growth in the region, the existing bus interchange at
Blacktown Train Station had exceeded its capacity and has become congested and difficult to use by bus drivers.
The new layover will help provide reliable journey times for the large number of bus passengers at Blacktown Train Station and get them to their desired destinations on time as well as encourage them to continue to use public transport as their preferred mode of travel.
It will also provide long-term capacity to cater for any future
additional bus services.
Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, Dr Marjorie O’Neill officially opened the new layover facility, giving the green flag for a Busways zero emissions bus to be the first to enter the facilities.
Dr O’Neil said, “This is a leading eco-building, not just in terms of clean energy but also in terms of 100% recycled plastics used in the construction of concrete reinforcements in the footpaths.”
A greening strategy with 56 trees and more than 6000 shrubs and ground-cover plants will help with “combatting urban heat island effect”, she said, and a 10kW solar system powers all driver amenities electrical appliances and devices from a renewable energy source throughout the day.
Busways as the lead operator will clean and maintain the facility.
Located on the corner of Sunnyholt Road and Gordon Street, Blacktown the new layover has capacity for up to 11 standard rigid buses at one time.
A smoking ceremony was held at the opening by the Dharug people, who are the traditional owners and the custodians of the land on which the facility is located.
Blacktown is home to the largest urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Australia.
THE peak body representing councils in Greater Western Sydney is urging residents to both prepare for — and stay safe in — any potential disaster or crisis by downloading a free easy-to-use ‘Get Prepared’ app on their mobile phones.
Co-created by the Australian Red Cross and insurer NRMA, the ‘Get Prepared’ app helps you connect with key support people, accomplish simple tasks to make your loved ones safer, and protect the things that matter most to you.
Western Sydney has in recent years been impacted by extreme weather events, including floods and fires, and extreme heat.
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in an emergency like a bushfire or a flood,” said the President of Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WRSOC), Councillor Barry Calvert.
“Emergencies can strike at anytime, anywhere and without warning.
“The good news is, it’s easy to protect yourself, the people you love and the things you value most in such an emergency.
“Research shows that the more people prepare for a disaster, the faster they recover.
“So, take control and download the ‘Get Prepared’ app now.
“The app helps you prepare for the unexpected and be better prepared for emergencies by completing an emergency plan.”
“The ‘Get Prepared’ app is a free and easy to use one-stop tool to help you prepare for any type of emergency.”
Using the app, residents can:
• establish a quick and easy network of support with three key contacts
• review the risks relevant to where they live
• create checklists of actions to make an emergency plan, and
• save the emergency plan as a PDF file to be printed and shared with others.
To download your ‘Get Prepared’ app, visit www.redcross.org.au/ prepare/
“During this year’s Australian Red Cross Emergency Ready Week (18 –24 September) especially, WSROC will be partnering with councils across Greater Western Sydney to help create a city that is connected, inclusive and resilient,” said Councillor Calvert.
The Greater Western Sydney region stretches over 8,948 km2, ranging from densely populated metropolitan
areas, to farmlands, and the World Heritage Area of the Blue Mountains.
“Extreme weather events and the COVID-19 pandemic have heightened challenges for Greater Western Sydney communities, as the recent terrible floods and bushfires have shown,” said Councillor Calvert.
“During severe heatwaves, too, people in Greater Sydney have experienced as much as a 13 percent increase in mortality (excess deaths), according to NSW Health research.”
Western Sydney is typically 6 - 10°C hotter than the rest of Sydney during extreme heat events.
SOME of Blacktown City’s brightest young minds have been recognised for their achievements in science with special awards thanks to a partnership between the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and Blacktown City Council.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM and Dr Charles Cox, Head of the Institute’s Mechanobiology Lab, presented Victor Chang School Science Awards to 35 students at a ceremony this week.
The students were celebrated for their achievements and dedication to their studies across the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM.
The award was developed by the Institute to encourage young people to foster an interest in science and pursue further studies or a career in the field.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said: “I am extremely proud of the bright minds from the schools in Blacktown City who are working hard in their studies and are passionate about science. They are preparing to shape the future.
“It is heart-warming to see so many
young people with an interest in science and improving lives, just like Dr Victor Chang, who was one of the world’s leading heart surgeons.
“Blacktown City Council has a proud history as a supporter of these awards and it is our vision that many of the students who received an award will work in a science-related field in
Blacktown City in the future.
“Congratulations to all students.”
Dr Charles Cox said: “As a scientist myself, I know how rewarding a career in STEM can be. The possibilities are endless for all the award winners.
“Australia has always punched above its weight in the fields of science, technology and mathematics
and it’s so exciting to see we have so many passionate students who will ensure that this proud history will continue and flourish.”
The Victor Chang School Science Awards were established to celebrate young, gifted students excelling in science, honouring Dr Victor Chang’s legacy in fostering education.
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I’M currently on holiday in beautiful Bali. Probably the only gift that Covid brought us was the ability to adapt to a situation and work from anywhere when the need arises.
So, even though I’m thousands of miles away at present, I’m able to write articles, interview people and edit as if I was sitting at a desk in western Sydney.
Of course not all jobs allow that kind of flexibility, but I sure do appreciate that mine does!
Travelling the world and seeing different cultures is probably the best way possible to broaden your mind and see things from a different point of view.
We tend to get used to the bubble we live in and assume it’s the same for everyone else. It’s not.
There are many countries, like Bali, where people don’t raise the roof every time things don’t go their way. That’s basically because nobody in power is interested in catering to hurt feelings. The result is they tend to be extremely resilient and accepting that not everything will go their way and there will be things that will disappoint them. Imagine that!
I always come back from an overseas trip with a deeper appreciation of all that we are lucky enough to have here, and a respect for those who don’t have a tenth of it yet are happy anyway. It also makes me acutely aware of how much we expect and how much we take for granted.
The reality is many people around the world are so economically challenged that they couldn’t even dream of travelling. We are lucky that saving for a holiday is something most of us can strive for. It might take a lot longer to save in this climate, but it’s something that is worth the wait. I thoroughly recommend travelling to anyone who is in the position to do so. If you can, take the kids with you so they can see first-hand how others live. It is the absolute best added education you could give them.
I’VE always believed that educational opportunities have the ability to transform lives.
And it’s a key objective of the Albanese Government to ensure that all Australians, no matter their postcode or income, can access the very best educational opportunities.
For decades, TAFE has been a highly regarded educational institution which has supported and provided opportunities for individuals, communities and employers.
At the Federal Election 15 months ago, we promised that we would deliver 180,000 Fee Free TAFE places to assist in up-skilling the nation.
Since then, the Albanese Labor Government has delivered on its commitments to place TAFE at the heart of our vocational education and training (VET) sector.
All over Australia, TAFE is helping Australians to gain new skills and train for the jobs of the future.
In fact, we’ve now seen over 214,000 enrolments occur under Labor’s Fee-Free TAFE policy, far surpassing our goal of 180,000.
Our Fee-Free TAFE policy is improving access to training for jobs
that are in high demand.
We’re also working with the States and Territories to provide a further 300,000 Fee-Free TAFE places from next year.
This is because we understand the importance of TAFE and the role that it will continue to play to give Australians the skills they need for the careers and opportunities of the future.
“We’re doing what we promised – up-skilling the nation”
DOMESTIC and family violence advocate and Harman Foundation cofounder Hardinder Kaur has won the 2023 Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year award.
The recognition is part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, one of the largest celebrations of volunteering across the country.
The awards are run by The Centre for Volunteering to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of volunteers working across all sections of communities throughout the state.
The Outer Western Sydney award winners for individual and team categories were also announced recently at a special ceremony in St Marys.
2023 NSW Volunteer of the Year Award recipients for the Outer Western Sydney region are:
Young Volunteer of the YearMohammad Raza Sohailee from Schofields
University student and former refugee Mohammad Raza Sohailee volunteers with the Mates Mentoring Program and other groups, helping fellow students connect and avoid the negative impacts of isolation.
He helps new students build a sense of belonging and community, by providing a safe person to chat with, ask questions of and gain knowledge. His volunteering as mental health champion also helps to foster education, wellbeing and sustainability.
Adult Volunteer of the YearHarinder Kaur from Blacktown
Harinder Kaur has given her time across three decades to support for women and families from South Asian communities as they battle grief, discrimination, poverty and disadvantage.
She co-founded the Harman Foundation charity; a refuge called Her House; and established a Sikh Chaplaincy project across six hospitals.
Her volunteering and advocacy have empowered CALD communities and people facing domestic and family separation, incarceration, homelessness and the negative impacts of mental health.
Volunteer Team of the YearFoodbank Warehouse Volunteers
The 100 strong team of Foodbank Warehouse volunteers have contributed over 5,200 days of work to ensure food is safely distributed to people and families throughout the region and NSW.
They give their time to help people experiencing food insecurity due to cost-of-living pressures and social issues, at the same time helping them to combat mental health issues and social stigmas.
Senior Volunteer of the Year
- Helen Strasser from Kellyville Ridge
Helen Strasser volunteers at the Hills Community Aid Emergency Relief program, helping hundreds of community members receive support with essential expenses.
Her initiative and drive during COVID restriction helped to maintain services to people experiencing financial hardship as well as extra services such as home calling clients to offer assistance and emailing food vouchers, chemist payments and referrals for further assistance.
It is estimated that Helen has supported 1,200 clients with assessments over the past three years across the Blacktown, Parramatta, Cumberland, Hawkesbury and Hills regions.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said:
“Volunteers from across Western Sydney give their time and energy to help make their local community a better place. They help build healthy and well-connected communities across the region. “Their tireless work helps support people across health, education, sporting and community sectors. Our awards recognise their work and give us the chance to say thank you.” NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering Jodie Harrison said: “I am immensely proud of the dedication and commitment to community that we see each year from volunteers across the state.
“The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards shine a light on these selfless efforts. Congratulations to today’s award recipients.”
ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said:
“ClubsNSW proudly supports the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, and we congratulate each one of the award winners and nominees for their dedication to their communities. “With more than 30,000 selfless individuals volunteering their time in clubs across NSW, we understand the incredible lengths that volunteers go to in order to support and strengthen their local communities. “The volunteers honoured by these awards truly deserve the recognition they receive and continue to be an inspiration to us all.”
THE NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are in their 17th year and have grown to become one of the largest celebrations of volunteering across Australia.
They are an annual program run by The Centre for Volunteering to recognise the outstanding work of volunteers in every region across NSW.
Individuals or teams can be nominated in one of eight award categories.
• Young Volunteer of the Year
• Employee Volunteer of the Year
• Adult Volunteer of the Year
• Volunteer Leader of the Year
• Senior Volunteer of the Year
• NSW Club Volunteer of the Year
• Volunteer Team of the Year
• Not for Profit Voluntary Governance Award
Regional finalists for the awards are announced at 25 local ceremonies throughout NSW and are invited to the Gala State Ceremony for the announcement of the 2023 NSW Volunteer of the Year to coincide with International Volunteer Day in December.
Recipients for the NSW Volunteer of the Year are also announced across the eight categories at the Gala State Ceremony.
The NSW Government and ClubsNSW are the principal partners of The Centre for Volunteering for the awards.
This year’s regional and state ceremonies are being held from mid-August to December 2023.
THE Great Rotary Duck Race has been held for over 20 years by the Rotary Club of Kurrajong, North Richmond.
In the early years, it was held on the Hawkesbury River at Windsor, but since 2006 the Race has been held at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
Covid prevented the race being run in 2020 and floods in 2022 forced the closure of PWS, preventing the race being held that year.
The race is one of the major fundraising events held each year by the Rotary Club of Kurrajong, North Richmond and this year it was partnered successfully with the Rotary Club of Penrith.
This event allows local not for profit community groups to participate and they get to keep most of the funds raised. They sell duck certificates for $5.00 each or 3 for $10.00 and keep $4.00 for every $5.00 certificate sold and $7.00 for every 3 for $10.00.
There has been a record level of interest in the race this year and all of our 6,500 ducks raced on Saturday.
We have enjoyed the support of our generous principal sponsor, the King family, who own Kings Mitre 10 Timber and Hardware.
This is the 3rd year that Kings have sponsored the race and we owe them (King family) our gratitude, because without their help we would not be able to stage the event for the
benefit of the Hawkesbury clubs, organisations and schools; about 20 of which are participating this year.
We have also enjoyed the sponsorship of Pepe’s Ducks of South
Windsor, who have supported the race for over 10 years.
And of course, the race could not have been held without the support of the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
Do you have an extraordinary story to share?
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM is encouraging both budding and experienced writers to share their stories in the 2023 Mayoral Creative Writing Prize.
The 2023 theme asks writers to explore the ‘EXTRAordinary’, and weave their ideas, experiences and imaginings on the concept into a short story or poem.
Entries in the 2023 competition are now open to adults and children, from 8 years of age onwards, who live in Blacktown City. The total prize pool for this year’s competition is $1600.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said: “The Blacktown Mayoral Creative Writing Prize is a wonderful initiative from Blacktown City Council that aims to engage and inspire writers young and old.
“The Prize allows us to showcase the passion for writing that the people of Blacktown City share.
“This year, we’re asking writers to tap away at their keyboards or put pen to paper about something ‘EXTRAordinary’ and to explore the idea of the incredible in the everyday.
“The diverse communities of Blacktown City
have many stories to tell – and we can’t wait to read them.”
Submissions can be either a poem or short story, but must be works of fiction. Short stories should not exceed 500 words and poems should be no longer than 25 lines.
Works will be judged on originality, construction, the use of language, (including creative expression,
grammar, sentence structure, punctuation and spelling), development of character, atmosphere or setting, creative use of language and how the entry relates to the theme.
Entries are open in the following age categories: 8 - 11 years, 12 - 14 years, 15 - 17 years and adult (18+).
Adult winners will receive $200. Winners aged 17 or younger will receive $100 and the teacher or teacher librarian who is supporting them will receive a corresponding $100.
Entries close at midnight on Monday, 2 October, 2023.
Winners will be announced at a special presentation ceremony at the Max Webber Library in December.
Entries can only be submitted online at westwords. com.au, or via email admin@westwords.com.au
For more details visit: www.blacktown.nsw. gov.au/Community/Awards-scholarships-andcompetitions/Mayoral-Creative-Writing-Prize
The Mayoral Creative Writing Prize is run in partnership with WestWords, an organisation which celebrates and champions the stories of Western Sydney.
MORE than 80 of Western Sydney’s aspiring Indigenous athletes headed to Western Sydney University in Kingswood on 29 August 2023, to attend the Western Sydney Academy of Sport (WSAS) UAA Indigenous Talent Identification Day.
“It was a brilliant and sunny day, showcased with strength and conditioning, athlete testing, netball, volleyball, speed and agility, rowing, cycling, and golf. Our athletes enjoyed an introduction to these sports and participated in them to showcase their abilities,” said Madeleine Haddad, Communication, Marketing and Events Coordinator, WSAS.
“Thanks to our program partners, UAA and Western Sydney University, we can showcase this event to identify athletes with specific skills and personal qualities that may lead them to become high-performance athletes as part of our Academy programming.
“Helping us identify these athletes and skills were representatives from several state sporting organisations who helped on the day. A big thank you to the representatives from Volleyball NSW, AusCycling, Netball NSW, Nepean Rowing Club,
Academy of Sport Speed Australia and Jack Newton Junior Golf, who all assisted our WSAS Coaches in identifying talent.
“Special mentions go out to the following who helped us throughout the day:
1. Sarah Kennedy from Western Sydney University and her team of research students who assisted in the conduction of testing.
2. Our guest speakers for the day: Andrew Bennie,
Andrew Fraser, and Dean Norris.
3. Rebecca Di Cello from NSWIS, representing AusCycling.
4. Heath Canning, representing Jack Newton Junior Golf.
5. Samantha May, representing Netball NSW.
6. Filip Zapala and Chris Todd, representing Volleyball NSW; and
7. Ranell and Kip Hobson, representing the Academy of Sport Speed Australia.
“We would also like to thank our Academy coaches for all their help and assistance on the day, including Daniel Waddell (Nepean Rowing Club), Kerrie Wallace and Renee Cini (Netball), Kevin Sturgiss (Volleyball), David Zahra and Brad Ward (Golf), Melissa Wu (HrdKaw Strength and Training and Future Stars partner) and Pierre Dubier (Cycling).
“We have incredible talent within our Western Sydney region and it’s important that we provide the opportunities, pathways and access for our youth to thrive and transition to higher levels of competition and performance, and ultimately become better people and contribute to their community as a result,” Madeleine said.
SUICIDE prevention training will be provided for up to 700 Rugby League clubs across the state as part of a plan to give people essential skills to have a conversation about suicide.
Minister for Mental Health, Rose Jackson said the suicide prevention skills training funded by the NSW Government will be delivered by LivingWorks in partnership with the NSW Rugby League to help keep more young people safe.
Ms Jackson made the announcement at the Grand Final games of the Sydney Shield (St Marys Saints v Hills Bulls) and Ron Massey Cup (St Marys Saints v Wentworthville Magpies) in Kogarah.
“Suicide prevention is everyone’s business and ensuring as many people as possible have access to core skills which can help support someone during one of their most vulnerable moments is critical to saving lives,” Ms Jackson said.
“Suicide is a complex issue and ensuring people have the tools they need to tackle these complexities when it is needed most can change the course of someone’s life.
“This training, run by Australia’s leading suicide prevention skills training organisation LivingWorks, is open to entire club communities to wrap essential support around young people to keep them safe.”
Ms Jackson said the training is also being delivered to teachers and schools, parents and carers and NSW Police through the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Mental Health Recovery package.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper highlighted the importance of utilising existing community connections to deliver this important program.
“Sports bring communities together right across the state, so it presents the perfect opportunity for people to learn skills to prevent suicides.
Sport is much more than what happens on the field. Sporting clubs are the backbone of communities across the state and have the direct line needed to deliver important mental health programs, at a grassroots level.
LivingWorks Australia CEO Shayne Connell said the right course is available for everyone aged over 16 years, with sessions available 90 minutes online or a half-day in-person.
“Sporting communities are renowned for their camaraderie and collective spirit to support one another. What better community to receive this training and extra confidence boost to know how to
have the all-important conversation about suicide,” Mr Connell said.
“The training will help people recognise when someone is having thoughts of suicide, engage with that person, and connect them to further help, such as a club wellbeing leader or a community mental health provider.”
NSW Rugby League Mental Fitness and Wellbeing Manager, former NRL coach and premiership-winning player, Paul Langmack will oversee the training rollout to clubs and believes the Rugby League presents a unique opportunity to support this.
“Youth suicide is a big problem in society and LivingWorks offers a unique preventative program fully funded by NSW Health,” Mr Langmack said.
“We have an incredible opportunity to use Rugby League as a vehicle to amplify the important work being done by LivingWorks and the NSW Government.
“We plan to take the program to Rugby League clubs all over NSW, especially in regional areas which are more isolated and have to deal with this issue far too often.”
If you, or someone you know, is in a lifethreatening situation please seek help immediately by calling 000. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. The NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 is a 24/7 service that can advise you on appropriate local mental health services for you or a loved one.
AS Year 12 students across New South Wales start to prepare for their upcoming HSC exams Western Sydney University is again offering a range of free online study sessions to assist with their HSC exam preparation.
From 25-29 September 2023, Western Sydney University will be offering 25 sessions across 16 key HSC subject areas, including Advanced and Standard English and Advanced and Standard Maths.
Led by a team of highly qualified senior teachers and HSC markers, students will take part in sessions including content analysis, tips and strategies, and a detailed exploration of key syllabus and curriculum areas.
Students will also have the opportunity to complete a practice exam paper and the exam deconstruction sessions will provide a detailed analysis of questions and exemplar responses and solutions, giving local Year 12 students a helping hand when it comes to approaching the HSC.
Director, Future Student Engagement at the University, Sophie Partridge said that these sessions bring a level of confidence to Year 12 students navigating their exams.
“Western’s HSC Study Sessions are designed to help HSC students achieve their best possible results, representing our university’s commitment to the educational success of the young people in our region” said Ms Partridge.
“The HSC exams are the culmination of students’ high school education, and they have a big few months ahead of them. We know from previous years that these sessions provide them with the confidence to go into these exams knowing they are on the front foot, and hopefully also alleviate some of the stress they may be experiencing.”
Over 2,000 students attended the online sessions in the lead up to their exams last year, with this year
to also be delivered online ensuring the sessions are accessible to students across western Sydney.
Western Sydney University’s HSC Study Sessions are offered in partnership with leading education services provider InspirationED, with their team of highly qualified HSC teachers and experienced markers to deliver the sessions.
Other areas that will be covered include Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Economics, Geography, Business
Studies, PDHPE, Legal Studies, Community and Family Studies, Visual Arts, Studies of Religion I and Modern History.
Students can view the schedule and register by visiting the HSC Study Sessions website at www. westernsydney.edu.au/future/student-life/ events/free-hsc-study-sessions?cid=hp-omc-hscstudysessions-23
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
THE first ever Roman fire brigade was created by Marcus Licinius Crassus who took advantage of the fact that Rome had no fire department and created his own brigade with 500 men that rushed to burning buildings at the first cry of alarm and on arriving at the scene the firefighters did nothing while Crassus offered to buy the burning building from the distressed property owner at a miserable price. If the owner agreed to sell the property, his men would put out the fire, if the owner refused then they would simply let the structure burn to the ground. Roman Emperor Nero took the basic idea from Crassus and built on it to form the Vigiles in AD 60 to combat fires using bucket brigades and pumps as well as poles, hooks and even a ballista (sometimes called a bolt thrower and was an ancient missile weapon that launched either bolts or stones at a distant target to tear down buildings in advance of the flames). The Vigiles patrolled the streets of Rome to watch for fires and served as a police force. The later brigades consisted of hundreds of men already for action. When there was a fire, the men would line up to the nearest water source and pass buckets hand in hand to the fire. Rome suffered several serious fires, most notably the fire on 19 July AD 64 which eventually destroyed two thirds of Rome. However, the first organised municipal fire brigade in the world was established in Edinburgh Scotland when the Edinburgh Fire Engine Establishment was formed in 1824 led by James Braidwood. London followed in 1832 with the London Fire Engine Establishment. The first horse-drawn steam engine for fighting fires was invented in England in 1829 but it was not accepted in structural firefighting until 1860. It continued to be ignored for another two years afterwards. Self-propelled steam-powered fire engines were introduced in 1903, followed by internal combustion engine fire apparatuses which began to be produced as early as 1905, leading to the decline and disappearance of horse-drawn, hand-pumped and steam-powered fire engines by the mid-1920s. In the 1820’s the only form of Fire Brigade in the NSW colony was a military Brigade consisting of soldiers trained to use firefighting appliances. In 1836 the Australian Insurance Company established a Fire Brigade and several other insurance companies follow suit. These Brigades were largely local worker volunteers who used equipment supplied by the Insurance companies including buckets, ladders and axes. In 1841 several businessmen came together to form the Mutual Fire Insurance Association and the following year they established their own Brigade by bringing two engines from England. In 1851 several insurance companies formed the Sydney Fire Establishment, also known as the Insurance Companies Fire Brigade. By 1855 the NSW country town of Goulburn established a Fire Brigade. This was the first Brigade to be established outside Sydney, and in 1874 a disastrous fire ripped through the town of Windsor, burning across 30 acres and destroying 53 buildings, including 36 homes which prompted many other country towns fearing such an incident, created their own brigades and by 1884 the Fire Brigades Act came into effect creating the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB). This meant that all Brigades in Sydney had to register with the Board and
meet certain requirements to remain active. In 1895 a public meeting was held in the Penrith Council Chambers to consider establishing a fire brigade at Penrith. The Brigade was finally formed in 1905 as number 37 Brigade. A Government Architect designed station was opened in 1908 on the corner of Evans and High Streets in Penrith. In its early years, Penrith was a voluntary Brigade and was part of the Sydney Fire Department until 1910 when the Penrith Fire Department was created. A new fire station was built on the existing site in 1982. In 1998-99 Penrith Fire Brigade was Brigade number 86 and was part of Zone 2 of the Northwest Region. In 2000, the station continued to be located on the corner of High and Evan Streets. The Fire Brigades Act of 1989 established a state-wide approach to firefighting by creating the Board of Fire Commissioners NSW to oversee its implementation. This body became known as the NSW Fire Brigade. On 1st January 2011 the NSW Fire Brigades changed its name to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW). The new name more accurately reflects the wider scope of services offered to the community and proudly symbolises and supports the organisation’s vision for the future. The heritage partnership between Fire & Rescue NSW and the Museum of Fire at Penrith was founded in 1975 with the establishment of a Museum at Alexandria Training College. From a small beginning the relationship has grown to encompass Heritage & Research Support, Collection Management, Promotional Support & Public Education to FRNSW and the community. The Penrith Museum of Fire contains the Fire and Rescue NSW Heritage Fleet. The fleet consists of hand-drawn, horse-drawn and motorised fire engines, spanning almost every decade from the early 1840s until the late 1990s. It includes hose carts, pumpers and ladders, as well as highly specialised vehicles such as a Carbon Dioxide tender, a mobile canteen, a bushfire tanker, a salvage engine and various hydraulic aerial appliances.
IF your plan is to leave the rental market behind, now is the time to start making it happen. Shifting from renting to ownership is a big change and there’s plenty to do before you begin searching for a property to buy.
Here are some important steps to take on your path to successful homeownership.
Understand your borrowing power
Calculating your borrowing power is an important part of applying for a home loan that can be as simple as using an online borrowing power calculator.
Lenders typically determine borrowing power by considering factors such as the size of your deposit, your income and any ongoing financial commitments.
More borrowing power means more options and actions such as reducing the limit on your credit card can help you increase your borrowing power.
Home loan pre-approval can help make sure you don’t miss out on securing your dream property when the time is right.
Most pre-approvals will be subject to you finding a suitable property. Whilst you’re not obliged to take the loan, having pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious about buying.
Some lenders offer an indicative pre-approval online. Whilst this isn’t a formal pre-approval, it can be a useful guide as to whether the lender is likely to pre-approve you for the loan.
Be prepared to wait
With demand outweighing supply in the current property market, those looking to buy this year may need more patience.
And because buying a home is a big investment that comes with high changeover costs, you want confidence in your purchase decision.
Seek advice
From upfront buying costs to taxes, mortgage applications and settlement requirements, there’s a lot for first home buyers to learn before making any big decisions.
Speaking with a mortgage or finance broker can help you understand the buying process, get your finances in order and find the right home loan for your circumstances.
If you’re thinking about buying a property, contact Alex today on 0419 600 177 or email to alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.
Disclaimer: 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 fax or financial advice. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. For information about whether a loan may be suitable for you, call us on 0419 600 177.
ACROSS
1. Territorial reserve (7)
5. Unpredictable (7)
28. Altar boy (7)
29. Greatest possible degree (7)
DOWN
1. Massager (7)
2. Cradlesongs (9)
3. Plan of action (7)
4. Assistant (9)
5. Everglades bird (5)
6. Trimmed (7)
7. Crown (5)
8. Half man and half horse (7)
14. Eject semen (9)
16. Chicken stew (9)
17. Seedless raisin (7)
18. Declare invalid (7)
20. Perception (7)
21. A salt of nitric acid (7)
23. Spanish friend (5)
24. Flirt (5)
solution 1/9/23
IT was recently announced Racing NSW would be launching an equestrian event called Equimillion, with a minimum of $1 million in prize-money, exclusively for retired Thoroughbred racehorses.
Equimillion will showcase the versatility and suitability of Thoroughbreds for careers outside of racing, with the inaugural event to be held on the October long weekend in 2023.
The $1 million plus in prizemoney on offer at Equimillion will be distributed across a range of disciplines and classes in the biggest two-day equestrian event ever to be held in NSW.
The Equimillion competition will include Eventing, Show Jumping, Dressage and Showing, with a particular focus on amateur competitors. Ahead of the event, Racing NSW will host an auction for recently retired Thoroughbred racehorses, with those horses being purchased at the auction being eligible to compete at Equimillion.
“Equimillion will become the go-to event for equestrian competitors in all disciplines,” said Racing NSW Chief Executive, Peter V’landys AM.
“It has the potential to carry more than the $1 million in prize-money and in time, will be not only a major equestrian event, but a major event for NSW, with competitors coming from all states of Australia,” Mr V’landys
added.
The five Provincial Race Clubs (Hawkesbury, Newcastle, Wyong, Gosford and Kembla) all agreed to sponsor two competitors in the Equimillions Competition,” said James Heddo, CEO Hawkesbury Race Club.
“We had over 20 applicants for the sponsorship, and the two winners of the sponsorship are both young girls who have indicated a desire to pursue a full time career in the Racing Industry.
“The Club was overwhelmed by the quantity of applications sent in, all of which were of a very high calibre. There is no doubt there is great support for ‘Off The Track Thoroughbreds’ in the Hawkesbury Region.
“We are pleased to announce the
two lucky recipients of the HRC Equimillion sponsorship’s are Brianna Jacobs and Jett Newman.
“Brianna currently works for Godolphin at Agnes Banks and is in the process of completing a Traineeship Cert 111 in Racing Stablehand with Racing NSW. She will compete as a junior in the Show Horse division.
“Jett currently rides work for Hawkesbury trainer Claire Lever and is hopeful of becoming an apprentice jockey in the near future. She will compete as a junior in the Showjumping division.”
HAWKESBURY
Race Club will once again host the ‘Riding For The Disabled Charity Race Day’ on Sunday 8th October 2023.
Following the success of last year’s inaugural RDA charity event, HRC management is thrilled to expand its collaboration to include Riding For The Disabled Richmond, Ryde, Blue Mountains, Tall Timbers and Central Coast Centres.
HRC extends this invitation to participate this year, with proceeds from race sponsorships, hospitality packages and signage to be directly donated to these deserving Riding For The Disabled Centres.
Please mark your calendar and join other racing fans for a day of thrilling racing, exquisite hospitality and most importantly, the chance to support this worthy cause.
You can see further details on the HRC website www. hawkesburyraceclub.com.au/rdacharity-raceday-sunday-8-october
NOEL ROWSELL
BY
REGARDLESS of the results in the upcoming semi-finals and final of the Golf NSW W. Gibson (C Grade) Pennant competition, the pennant flag will be headed west.
Stonecutters Ridge, Lynwood, Twin Creeks and Lakeside Camden are all through to the semi-finals
and one of those four teams will bring home this year’s pennant flag.
Stonecutters Ridge defeated Northbridge 3-0 in the quarter finals, Lynwood defeated Bexley 2-1, Twin Creeks defeated Roseville 2-1 and Lakeside Camden defeated Cabramatta 2-1.
Twin Creeks will play Lynwood on Sunday at Northbridge and Stonecutters Ridge will play Lakeside Camden at Bardwell Valley. The two
winning teams will meet on Sunday 24th September at Beverley Park GC.
Fox Hills, Lakeside Camden, Gordon and Bexley are all through to the T.L. Warren (B Grade) semifinals, with Fox Hills to play Gordon at Northbridge and Lakeside Camden to play Bexley at Bardwell Valley.
The two winning clubs will meet in the Final on Sunday 24th September, also at Beverley Park.
BLACKTOWN City Council has provided a major boost to support Blacktown City FC through a significant new partnership, which will support local youth and female players.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said Council is proud to support the strengthening of programs for women and the kickstart of a brand-new program targeting youth, particularly young people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background.
“Council is a long-time supporter of Blacktown City FC, a club with a long, successful history, and a high profile, which continues to do our City proud,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Blacktown City’s men’s team were the 2022 NSW NPL premiers and the team did us proud once again this season, finishing third in the NPL.
“We were all excited to see so many of their former players star for Australia at the 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and the success of the CommBank Matildas in the recent 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup has injected even more excitement into the sport.
“Our Council is committed to bettering the community through sport and ensuring everyone has the chance to get involved in the game they love, regardless of their background or financial situation.
“This partnership lies at the heart of Council’s investment in a broad range of sports, to give residents of all ages and abilities the best chance to be healthy, happy and active.”
Council is building on its partnership with Blacktown City FC to kickstart a game-changing training program for young people through the Momento Grassroots Community Program.
The development program will offer up to 1,000 boys and girls, aged 5 to 11 years of age, the opportunity to train with Blacktown City FC’s 2022 NPL NSW Championship-winning team over 8 weekly clinics.
The program is designed to assist families who might not otherwise be able to afford the fees of Skill Acquisition Programs or a junior NPL team, which can cost around $1500 - $2600 per season.
Participants will receive training gear and a ball,
and will also have the chance to receive a scholarship to play in a Blacktown City FC youth team in the 2024 season, free of charge.
Blacktown City FC Executive Chairman Bob Turner said the club was committed to strengthening female participation, from juniors through to an international level.
“Blacktown City has assisted in the development of over 30 Socceroos and the goal in building our women’s program is to quickly find our first Matilda,” Mr Turner said.
“We have only been through two seasons, but the commitment from the club board is to match all aspects of the proven men’s program to attract the best female talent in Blacktown.
“We have a 5-year plan to compete at the NPL 1 level. The support of Council, coupled with their solid backing of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, will drive talent out of the woodwork for Blacktown City to achieve that objective.”
Mr Turner said he was delighted to strengthen the
Under 16, Division 1 team who won the Hills Football Grand Final at Bernie Mullane, Kellyville recently downing top of the ladder team Kellyville Kolts.
It had been a rocky season for the young team starting off slow on their rise up the ladder through the winter sport season after numerous player injuries. It seemed an almost impossible task as the Bears fielded the Semis and Grand Final games without substitutes. Captain George Jasser said ‘it has been a tough season with some key players out with injuries but the boys held on and getting the win today is amazing and we are so happy’.
The winning goal was scored by Tom O’Shea in the second half sending the crowd into a frenzy. The Season Top Goal scorer Alex Burga said ‘the win today was well deserved’. Defender Caden Bowden of Rouse Hill remarked ‘we have overcome so much this season so winning was the perfect ending’.
The Winston Hills Football Club Under 16’s Division 1 team impressed spectators as they captivated the field with a 10 match winning streak to end the 2023 season.
The camaraderie of the team can be seen on and off the field with many of the players having played together as Winston Hills Bear Cubs since the Under 8’s and 9’s. Team manager Chris
club’s partnership with Council.
“Blacktown City FC has a proven 70-year history as one of the best in the country at developing young players,” he said.
“We are extremely proud of our name and are committed to promote both the club and the City we represent at a state, national and international level.
“The partnership with Blacktown Council is one that will provide benefits to footballers in Blacktown and continue to enhance the City’s reputation as a ‘sporting City’.
“The support of Council will accelerate the Momento Grassroots Community Program and our training initiatives at local schools to take the game to the Blacktown community”.
Blacktown City Council provides a broad range of support to dozens of sporting organisations and clubs in Blacktown City.
“We are a sporting City,” said Mayor Bleasdale, “And are always looking at how we can help our sporting clubs deliver for our residents.”
Fileman said ‘we’ve been so lucky to have such a great bunch of kids and coaches over the years’ with defender Lachlan Diaz-Brand adding ‘the championship means a lot to us because of how our team has grown up together over the seasons’.
Congratulations to the Winston Hills FC Under 16’s, Division 1 Hills Football Grand Final Champions 2023: Caden Bowden, Alex Burga, Lachlan Diaz-Brand, Tom Fileman, Caleb Henderson, George Jasser, Tony Maroun, JP Matanganyidze , Will Mcdonald, Ryan Mcilvenna, Tom O’Shea, , Harry Poole, Zach Redwood, , Christian Tannous and lead by Coach Hanif Vejandi and Coach Lochie Porter.
BLACKTOWN City FC celebrated the 2023 season in style with their Presentation Night held at the Hudson Hotel. Featuring the Senior Men & Women in a gala event, players, Coaches, administrators and supporters were treated to a fitting conclusion to a successful 2023 season.
The Senior Men finished an impressive late season run to defend their 2022 Championship season, earning an away win over second place Rockdale 2-1 in Round 30 of the competition. The win was the twelfth game in a row for Blacktown without a loss to end the year in third place with a 17 win -6 draw -7 loss season. Apia Leichhardt took out the Premiership with a 20-5-5 record while Rockdale finished in third with a 18-5-7 record.
Blacktown City Women finished 10th in only their second year of competition. Head of Women’s Football, David’ Dok’ O’Keefe, is already working to shore up his team in a bid to reach the top of the League in the next two years.
The Players ‘Player of the Year’ for the Men was Jak O’Brien, while for the Women, Kiara Rochiax took out the honours. Jak O’Brien had a tremendous season finishing Runner Up in the Golden Boot award with 18 goals, a remarkable achievement given he was asked to step into a Strikers role when Mitch Mallia, Jordan Smylie and Danny Choi were all lost to injury in the first two weeks of the season. Kiara Rochiax was rewarded for her season with a call-up to the W League where she will be playing this season for the Newcastle Jets. Kiara becomes the first Blacktown City player to be called up to the W League.
The Prestigious Matt Lewis Medal entered its second season and was awarded this year to Mario Shabow. Retiring skipper, Matt Lewis, presented the medal in a hotly contested series of 3-2-1 votes over the 30 week season.
Matt has been at Blacktown since Under 12’s and has been a stalwart for Blacktown throughout his career playing 378 games in the red and black. In his last game against Rockdale, Matt earned a point in the MVP game voting to show he still has what it takes.
The future of Blacktown City is in good hands as the club continues to take pride in its junior development and commitment to give its young players opportunity. Goalie Cayden Henderson was the 507th player to represent Blacktown at the Senior level this year as he filled in for the injured Tristen Prendergast. The 17 year old took full advantage of the faith shown in him by Coach Crittenden earning MVP honours in only his second game against Wollongong. 19 year old Caleb Jackson-Brown also stood up against Rockdale last week earning Man of the Match honours and scoring an impressive goal.
Season 2024 will see cross town rivals Hills United elevated from NPL2 to NPL 1 whilst Mt Druitt Town Rangers will be relegated to NPL 2. The Hills/ Blacktown City rivalry will be sure to raise some interest.
Off the field, Blacktown City FC scored major gains towards their goal to capture the city that they represent. Season 2023 secured major financial partnerships with Walker Corporation, Landen Property Group, Momento Hospitality, Blacktown Council, Agius Real Estate, and Blacktown Workers
Club in support of the emerging Women’s program. The Club also saw the opening of the GC’s Members Bar in memory of Blacktown stalwart Graham CG Crawhall. Blacktown City intends to make GC’s Bar a feature in season 2024. Go Blacktown City!
Friday, 15 September 2023
AGNES Banks and Sydney Eventing hosted the Agnes Banks Equine Clinic Sydney Eventing Spring Classic over the weekend, at the beautiful Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC).
Organisers were thrilled at an amazing weekend of eventing, thanking every single volunteer, sponsor, rider, official, groom, owner and cheerleader that supported the event. And of course a special thank you to all the incredible horses.
It was a huge weekend, with over 500 entries spread across 22 classes. The weather was perfect and organisers were thrilled to see so many Sydney-siders and visitors out having a great time.
