Western News 16 April 2021

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Friday, 16 April 2021

ISSUE 133

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Lest We Forget

Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

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Seniors: get out and about and be health wise

H

ealthwise Seniors began its life in 1992 and has continually provided a community service to seniors (over 55), both men and women, within the Blacktown and Hawkesbury LGA. Healthwise is about keeping seniors connected to the community and others. “We offer activities ranging from craft, games, cards and Scrabble (all abilities are welcome) as well as an over 60’s group,” a spokesperson said.

“We also have occasional outings as well as providing a conduit for information. Our aim is to encourage local people to be involved in developing services for seniors.

“We are open for activities and a cuppa on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. We currently are not open on Wednesdays but there is the potential to have a further activity in the future.”

Healthwise is located at Suite 106A, 30-32 Campbell St Blacktown. Phone number 9671 1191. They can also be contacted by email healthwise.blacktown@gmail.com.

New site announced for Rouse Hill hospital (again) The NSW Government has announced a new site for the $300 million Rouse Hill Hospital, to be built on the north-eastern side of Windsor Road.

The Government claims the new site, located near Commercial Road, ensures ideal transport and road links for Western Sydney’s growing population.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale, OAM, welcomed the announcement of the new site for the long-awaited hospital.

“Council has been calling on the Government for more than 10 years to build Rouse Hill Hospital to

serve the rapidly growing population of the Rouse Hill/Marsden Park/Schofields/Riverstone area.”

Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Tens of thousands of residents have moved into the area since the Government first promised the hospital before the 2015 Election. Government planning policies will see a further 40,000 people move into the area over the next 15-years, while the provision of vital infrastructure continues to lag behind housing growth.

“It must be noted that a different site for the

hospital was officially announced with much fanfare by the Health Minister in February, 2019. Now we have a new site that is further away from Rouse Hill Town Centre, further away from Rouse Hill Metro station and on the other side of busy Windsor Rd. “Residents of Rouse Hill, Marsden Park, Schofields and Riverstone need a hospital now. It is vital that building starts now - the Government shouldn’t wait till just before the election in 2023.”

Mayor Bleasdale said.

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estern Sydney opened its doors to a new vaccination clinic at Blacktown Hospital recently, the second in the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to frontline workers.

The COVID-19 vaccine rollout is taking place in phases with the Blacktown Hospital vaccination clinic beginning to administer the AstraZeneca vaccine to frontline workers only under Phase 1b of the rollout.

Nicole Winters, a Senior Aboriginal Health Worker, was the first frontline health hero to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the new clinic.

“I’m proud that I’m the first patient at Blacktown Hospital to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine,” Nicole said.

“We need connection in order to survive.

COVID-19 tried to take that away from us but we came out stronger and getting the vaccine means we will return to normality quicker.”

Working in palliative care, Nicole supports Aboriginal patients throughout their end of life care and encouraged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to get the jab when they’re eligible.

“I’m in the community for my work and am interacting with very ill patients. I have a daughter who is disabled as well as an elderly father – this vaccine is as much for them as it is for me,” Nicole said.

“Getting the jab means I can keep my mob safe, keep my family safe, and keep the wider western Sydney community safe.”

Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

Aboriginal health worker first to receive COVID-19 vaccine at new Blacktown Hospital vaccination clinic

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Senior Aboriginal health worker Nicole Winters receives the first dose at the Blaktown vaccination clinic from nurse immuniser Jissy Mathew Jose.

WSLHD Chief Executive Graeme Loy said the Blacktown Hospital vaccination clinic’s opening is an important milestone for western Sydney and wider NSW as we continue to rally against COVID-19.

“This is a momentous occasion for our health district and our frontline staff who have worked tirelessly to keep the community safe during the pandemic,” Graeme said.

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

“Thanks to our health heroes who have supported the opening of the Blacktown Hospital vaccination clinic as well as everyone ensuring the smooth running of the Westmead Hospital vaccination hub.”

For more information about COVID-19 vaccination in NSW, visit the NSW Health website.

To find our when you might be eligible for the vaccine, visit the Australian Government’s Vaccine Eligibility Checker online.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

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Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

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From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

I

t has been challenging times for all Australians.

Last year on ANZAC Day, restrictions were in full swing and many of us stood at the end of driveways to show our respect on this special day.

This year, for many local services, unless you are a veteran or associate who has been invited to Dawn Service, you’ll need to again pay your respects by standing in your driveway and live-streaming the service.

And now that it appears that we are returning to a certain form of normal at least in our own country - many are questioning why we can’t honour our veterans and attend a local Dawn Service this ANZAC Day. But we need to give our local sub-branches a break on this one.

They aren’t used to managing an event and having to be Covid-compliant at the same time.

Covid related rules state they must have every person check in to a QR code.

The crowds that are usually attracted to the Dawn Service such as the one in St Marys, people come from all directions, there’s no real entry gate. Add to this that dawn has not yet broken and it is a huge thing for our sub-branches to manage. That’s why many Dawn Services are invitation only this year. That way, our veterans and families can attend the service and be safe, and we don’t turn an extremely important event into a stressful management ordeal for our sub-branches.

So let’s cop it on the chin for our veterans, and honour them once again from our driveways. Two up, the opportunity to support Legacy and have a beer with a digger will still be available at the RSL Clubs, as they ARE able to manage the QR coding with an entry point.

Lest We Forget.

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Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

“No-one does this job for recognition”

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western Sydney community health veteran has received a NSW Community Service Award for her outstanding services to the communities of Blacktown.

Jo Fuller is the Integrated and Community Health Priority Populations Program Lead at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

“I’m grateful and honoured to receive this award but no-one does this job for recognition,” Jo said.

Jo’s passion for helping communities started in 1991 when she joined the board and committees for nongovernment organisations (NGOs) for women’s, sexual assault and legal services in Sydney and Melbourne.

Jo joined WSLHD in 2003 in a Community Health role at Mount Druitt where she remains today.

The advantage of being a committee and board member of these organisations has enabled Jo to form strong partnerships with the many communities of western Sydney.

“It’s vital to have these contacts and networks in communities and Councils so you can work collaboratively together,” she said.

The NSW Government award was presented to Jo by the Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla.

“When Edmond presented me with

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Jo Fuller receives her NSW Community Service Award from the Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla.

this award I thought it was for one of the NGOs which I represent – not for me personally,” Jo said.

“I love my job being able to help vulnerable communities and working with NGOs and Blacktown Council.”

Jo is the Board Chair for the community-based resource centre for women called WASH House as well as the settlement service for immigrants or refugees called the Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency.

Her service doesn’t stop there – she also represents WSLHD at the Blacktown Council Women’s Advisory Committee and Blacktown Council’s Safety Advisory Committee.

“Congratulations Jo!”

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anzac TRIBUTE Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

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The Dawn Service

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t is often suggested that the Dawn Service observed on Anzac Day has its origins in a military routine still followed by the Australian Army.

The half-light of dawn was one of the times favoured for launching an attack. Soldiers in defensive positions were woken in the dark before dawn, so by the time first light crept across the battlefield they were awake, alert, and manning their weapons; this is still known as the “standto”. As dusk is equally favourable for battle, the stand-to was repeated at sunset.

After the First World War, returned soldiers sought the comradeship they had felt in those quiet, peaceful moments before dawn.

A dawn vigil became the basis for commemoration in several places after the war. It is difficult to say when the first dawn services were held, as many were instigated by veterans, clergymen, and civilians from all over the country. A dawn requiem mass was held at Albany as early as 1918, and a wreathlaying and commemoration took place at dawn in Toowoomba the following year.

SERVICE BEFORE SELF

By TOMAS (PADDY) HAMILTON

One hundred years of service, our Air Force has achieved Sometimes the butt of friendly jibes, but do not be deceived They have been there for our nation, and are now the stuff of lore From fragile wooden bi-planes, to a supersonic roar

In 1927 a group of returned men returning at dawn from an Anzac Day function held the night before came upon an elderly woman laying flowers at the as yet unfinished Sydney Cenotaph. Joining her in this private remembrance, the men later resolved to institute a dawn service the following year.

Some 150 people gathered at the Cenotaph in 1928 for a wreathlaying and two minutes’ silence. This is generally regarded as the beginning of organised dawn services. Over the years the ceremonies have developed into their modern forms and have seen an increased association with the dawn landings of 25 April 1915.

He’d never heard of Kandahar, or even Tarinkot But its his fifth deployment here, so he’s seen the bloody lot A sniper in every crevice, no heed to age or gender And every stranger that he sees, could be deaths silent vendor The enemy conducts a hit and run, from a poppy field Or tries to mount an attack, using a human shield They always seem to know, when to change their tac For its hard to fight a swarm of ghosts, with one arm behind your back A vapour trail the only clue, our army has a friend It only takes a call sign, to strike or to defend They’ve been through this together, many times before Different corps and uniforms, united in the fire of war Two decades in the sandpit, and a century in the air Will history remember, that they were ever there Always on their guard, to the dangers they detect Service before self, is the duty they protect

anzac TRIBUTE I

n 1916 the first Anzac Day commemorations were held on 25 April. The day was marked by a wide variety of ceremonies and services across Australia, a march through London, and a sports day in the Australian camp in Egypt. In London more than 2,000 Australian and New Zealand troops marched through the streets; a London newspaper headline dubbed them “the knights of Gallipoli”.

Marches were held all over Australia; in the Sydney march convoys of cars carried soldiers wounded on Gallipoli and their nurses. For the remaining years of the war Anzac Day was used as an occasion for patriotic rallies and recruiting campaigns, and parades of serving members of the AIF were held in most cities.

During the 1920s Anzac Day became established as a national day of commemoration for the more than 60,000 Australians who had died during the war. In 1927, for the first time, every state observed some form of public holiday on Anzac Day. By the mid-1930s all the rituals we now associate with the day – dawn vigils, marches, memorial services, reunions, two-up games – were firmly established as part of Anzac Day culture.

Later, Anzac Day also served to commemorate the lives of Australians who died in the Second World War, and in subsequent years the meaning of the day has been further broadened to include those who lost their lives in all the military and peacekeeping operations in which Australia has been involved.

Anzac Day was first commemorated at the

Memorial in 1942. At the time, government orders prohibited large public gatherings in case of a Japanese air attack, so it was a small occasion with neither a march nor a memorial service. Since then, Anzac Day has been commemorated at the

Memorial every year.

This Anzac Day we’ll come together, in person and in spirit, to commemorate the men and women who have served our nation in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

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Early commemorations of ANZAC Day

anzac TRIBUTE Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

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The history of Two-Up O

N Anzac Day we pause to remember those who’ve fought for our freedom by observing different traditions.

One of the most loved traditions played exclusively on Anzac Day is the age old game of Two-Up. In the simplest of terms the game of Two-Up is pretty much glorified head-or-tails game with the added element of gambling.

The rules and gameplay of Two-Up vary but on a traditional level they’re all the same. A ‘ringie’ places two coins tail side up on a kip (or paddle) whilst punters gather around a circular tarp on the ground.

The spinner then uses the kip to toss the two coins at least 10 feet into the air with the crowd betting on whether the coins will both land heads or tails up.

The ringie’s job is to ensure the coins travel at least 10 feet into the sky and land on the circular tarp.

If the spinner tosses the coins and they both land tails then the spinner keeps playing. If the coins both land on heads then the game is over and the spinner loses.

On the sideline the ‘boxer’ takes bets from punters who’re both betting on the luck of the spinner and the individual results of the tosses. The boxer is also usually the facilitator of the venue or a publican.

M. G. Heuston, served with 2/12th Commando Squadron during the Second World War, and he supplied the Australian War Memorial with an anecdote of his time running Two-Up games across battlegrounds.

Australian soldiers playing two up behind the firing line at Gallipoli.

“In some places, a multitude of currencies was used. It was the boxer’s call which stated the exchange rate for any or all currency. In addition, he could exchange currencies.

“At the end of the game, if the tail betters had had a good day, they would sling (tip) the boxer, to compensate him for the use of his facilities.

ANZAC Day 2021

Lest We Forget

We remember and honour those brave men and women who have served our country proudly in the past and continue to do the same today.

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

“As the game was held more often than once a week, you found that some of your customers went broke. The boxer usually lent them enough for cigarettes and a beer until next pay.

“A game would run for up to three or four hours,” M. G. Heuston wrote.

Good luck and gamble responsibly.

Western News

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C

hildren and young people in Blacktown who have attempted suicide will receive more support in the community thanks to a $3.8 million investment from the NSW Government.

An innovative pilot program known as The Youth Suicide Crisis and Aftercare service, managed

by New Horizons, will provide community-based and non-clinical support for young people in crisis.

This service will work in partnership with Western Sydney Local Health District’s Navigator and ENABLE teams, ensuring more support for young people who need it most in western Sydney.

Jack Heskett is a 23 year old living in Kogarah, South Sydney, who has previously attempted suicide and is a member of the NSW Health reference group helping shape the pilot program.

“Those first few months out of hospital can be overwhelming and lonely. This type of care could make a real difference to young people feeling disconnected or a burden on others after they leave hospital,” Mr Heskett said.

Minister for Mental Health

Bronnie Taylor said the service will be designed by young people with lived experience of suicide alongside families and carers, youth mental health and suicide prevention experts.

“Growing evidence tells us that following up and increasing community support for people after a suicide attempt can reduce the likelihood of a further attempt,” Mrs Taylor said.

“We know that young people are often reluctant to reach out for help and don’t always engage well with clinical services – what works well for adults often doesn’t work well for

emergency departments of young people in crisis or who have selfharmed.

Referrals to the Youth Suicide Crisis and Aftercare trial are expected from a range of health services, including emergency departments, mental health services and general practitioners.

Youth Aftercare has been funded through the Commonwealth Health Innovation Fund. It is in addition Photo courtesy FreeDesignFile. to the extensive range of new initiatives under young people. the NSW Government’s Towards Zero “The innovative service will involve Suicides Premier’s Priority, which rapid follow-up, continuity of care and includes $87 million in additional establishing a genuine, compassionate funding over three years to change connection with the young person the way that suicide prevention is using the service. delivered in this State.

“It will be designed for young If you, or someone you know, is people by young people and will not thinking about suicide or experiencing only change lives, it will save them.” a personal crisis or distress, please The Youth Suicide Crisis and seek help immediately by calling 000 Aftercare service pilot sites will begin or one of these services: operating in April at Blacktown and • Lifeline 13 11 14 also Coffs Harbour on the mid-north • Suicide Call Back Service Coast.

1300 659 467 Mrs Taylor said that the locations • NSW Mental Health Line had especially high presentations to 1800 011 511

www.knownforlounges.com

Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

Suicide support service for young people to open in Blacktown

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Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

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WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

Marmalade for the Troops, 1914

By Jack Brooks Blacktown and District Historical Society Inc

E

ngland declared war on Germany on 4th August 1914, and Australia quickly followed. Within a month, the orchardists of Seven Hills, Baulkham Hills, Kellyville and Dural were assisting the war effort. They freely contributed fruit to be manufactured into marmalade for the troops going to the front. The idea of presenting jam to the Defence Department originated with Mrs Perry of Baulkham Hills. She passed her idea on to the Committee of the Patriotic League, who in turn took up the matter with enthusiasm. Mrs Perry personally supervised the whole proceeding.

The whole jam making session appears to have been completed, in the open air, in one day. Two old photographs in The Cumberland Argus dated September 5, 1914, show men, women and at least one child amongst an array of large drums, buckets and tins of various sizes. The women dressed in long dresses, long sleeve blouses and large hats and can be seen stirring various ingredients in the large drums and buckets with long wooden stirrers. Men can be seen lifting the larger receptacles and pouring out the contents. With the men dressed in long trousers, long sleeved shirts, ties and waistcoats, it all looked very formal from a modern day perspective.

When the marmalade was ready, it was poured carefully into tin canisters and glass jars. Albert Horwood undertook the soldering of canisters, assisted by Bert Cook and Mr Mills. That was surely a tedious job! The ladies who assisted in keeping “the pot boiling” were Mrs Briggs, Brien, Murrell, Horwood and Burton. Misses Best, Perry and Pearce also assisted. Three men, Mr Mills Snr, Stutchberry and Murrell provided muscle power.

Upwards of a ton of marmalade was made, tinned and despatched. The sale of surplus material (firewood, sugar and fruit) amounted to about £10, which went to the Patriotic Fund, as did the money from the sale of surplus marmalade. The following firms contributed to the successful operation : Colonial Sugar Company for 10 cwt of A1 sugar, Richard Hughes and Co for 1

gross of 10 pound canisters, James Robertson and Co for 1 gross of seven pound canisters, Lyon and Milling for 1 gross glass jars, Harvey and Co for solder for the tins, Miss McEwen for covers for the jars, Messers Jenner and Best for firewood. Mr Woodyatt, the carrier, transported the one ton of tinned marmalade to its prearranged destination.

A neat label adorned each tin, printed by The Cumberland Argus, stating the contents came “with best wishes from Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Kellyville, Seven Hills, Dural etc, NSW Australia.”

One wonders if those tins of marmalade from the Hills District reached Gallipoli, France or Palestine, or were the contents savoured by the young soldiers as they sailed to their individual fates.

A few weeks after the patriotic efforts of the local orchardists, a public meeting of Seven Hills citizens took place to open a patriotic fund. The President was George Best, the Honorary Secretary J Eager and the Treasurer T G Mayes. Nine gentleman and five ladies formed the committee. A fund was opened and £17.5.0 was paid in and promised. Patriotic songs were sung by Mr T Davies of the Davies Quartette Parramatta and Miss Newis was the accompanist. Money poured in and a patriotic concert and dance was held at the Blacktown School of Arts early in October 1914. Blacktown, it was stated, “is determined to do its part in raising money for the soldiers.”

Villages and towns throughout the country opened patriotic funds and official lists, showing donations, regularly appeared in newspapers.

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ENTERTAINMENT

F

rom Friday 16th to Sunday 18th April, Blacktown Workers Club will transform into a world of fun with the ultimate outdoor cinema experience playing a selection of blockbusters.

Not just about what’s on the screen, the outdoor cinema will also feature tasty food from local icons BlackBear BBQ, fun live music, kids’ entertainment and a graffiti wall art competition with all proceeds from ticket sales going to Blacktown Youth Services Association.

The massive 3-day event is part of NSW Youth Week and will provide vital funding for Blacktown Youth Services Association with all money raised going directly to the charity.

Established in 1986 for youths needing guidance and assistance to find their purpose, BYSA runs a multitude of programs focused on skills development, capacity building and social inclusion of young people in the local area.

First up on Friday is family night with ‘Scoob!,’ the 2020 re-make of old-school favourite, Scooby Doo. With plenty of positive messages about loyalty and friendship, this recent release is not just for the kids as it also features some tongue in cheek jokes especially for grown-ups.

Saturday is dedicated to ‘Youth Week’ where live graffiti art from talented youth artists in the community will kick off from 4.30pm. Come the evening, sit back for ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ – last year’s follow up to the iconic 1970s Hollywood blockbuster about a beloved female superhero, played by the stunning Israeli actress, Gal Gadot.

Finally, enjoy a giggle to finish the weekend with 2011 American romantic comedy, ‘Crazy Stupid Love,’ starring a killer cast of Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Marisa Tomei and Kevin Bacon.

Cinemagoers will also be able to enjoy a bite from community legends and kings of the low-and-slow cooked meats, BlackBear BBQ, who will be serving up delicious, hearty feed from their food truck throughout the entire weekend.

After a difficult 2020 leaving them on the brink of bankruptcy, Blacktown Youth Services Association is excited to be in partnership with Blacktown

Workers Club Group (BWCG) for its debut Outdoor Cinema Fundraiser to continue empowering local young people to create transformative change in the lives and communities.

BWCG President, Kay Kelly, explains “The work BYSA do is critical to our community and so we’re proud to be able to offer our support and host this fantastic event to raise the crucial funds BYSA need to keep their doors open.”

Other sponsors for the fundraiser

Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

One weekend only - Blacktown opens an Outdoor Cinema with a cause!

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include Paynter Dixon, one of Australia’s leading Design and Construction builders who offer expert services in the construction industry.

Get in quick to join the “Grass Class”, just $20 including popcorn.

Or why not pick one of the following upgrades: the “Blanket Crew” featuring a picnic blanket to keep and bonus popcorn ($30 per person) or the premium “Bean Bag Lounge” seating inclusive of picnic pack ($40 per person). For those with kids, “Family Time” includes with two blankets and popcorn to feed four ($80 for two adults and two kids). Kids are 3 to 12 years. Infants aged 2 years and under free.

To book tickets, please visit: www.workersclub.com.au, Workers Blacktown, 55 Campbell Street, Blacktown or via phone on 02 9830 6000. Tickets strictly limited.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 A state of inactivity (8) 5 Elementary (6) 9 Not moving (8) 10 Resembling a horse (6) 12 Ability (5) 13 Warriorlike (9) 14 Fastens again (6) 16 A fire-breathing monster of Greek mythology (7) 19 A personal with confidential information (7) 21 Panoramas (6) 23 Lacking (9) 25 A protuberance (5) 26 Lies in store (6) 27 Marauder (8) 28 10 years (6) 29 Impartial (8))

down 1 Most arid (6) 2 The quality of being uneven in texture (9) 3 Revolutionary (5) 4 Assaults sexually (7) 6 Questions (9) 7 Earlier in time (5) 8 Commonplace (8) 11 An alliance of countries (4) 15 Signalled (9) 17 Empties of people (9) 18 Away from the wind (8) 20 Regretted (4) 21 Former soldier (7) 22 Made a loud noise (6) 24 Former French

currency (5) 25 A family of Sino-Tibetan

languages (5)

solution 2/4/21

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REAL ESTATE

Western News

How a vehicle fleet upgrade can propel small business growth Alex Soncini

F

rom 1 January 2021, the instant asset write-off will only be available for small businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million and the threshold will be $1,000.

Under this scheme, it’s possible for small businesses (like trades) to claim an instant asset write off on large items like a 4x4 vehicle used for work.

However, since the threshold can be applied to each individual asset, the business can have accessories such as canopies and drawers instantly deducted from their taxable income come the end of the current financial year.

This is the perfect time to reflect on your business achievements so far, with a view to the future and whether it’s time to stimulate your business growth with some new tools.

You’ve probably spent time cultivating your existing customers, developing new products and services and targeting new markets. But perhaps something is still holding you back from the progress you know you can achieve.

Is your vehicle fleet too small or too outdated for your current operations, let alone your plans for the future?

Six signs it’s time to expand or upgrade your fleet Don’t be held back by the state of your vehicle fleet. It needs to be a true reflection of your enterprise – dynamic, productive, contemporary and more than fit for purpose. Do any of these apply to you?

1. You can’t keep up with current deliveries or service calls A backlog of order deliveries or customers waiting too long for service is a sure indicator of a fleet that’s either too small or not suitable for the job.

Don’t risk losing clients just because your fleet is letting you down.

2. You’re missing out on new business opportunities Even in the era of business conducted online, there’s nothing like the personal touch and sealing sales deals face-to face. If your salespeople are hampered because vehicles aren’t available, your growth may take a hit.

3. Vehicles are more than five years old.

While your new vehicles were still under warranty you had some assurance that if something went wrong it was someone else’s job to fix it. But now that they’re more than five years old it’s your problem, resulting in higher costs and risks. Replacing them makes good business sense.

4. Vehicles have travelled more than 100,000 kilometres Even if a vehicle is less than five years old, if it has more than 100,000 km on the clock it’s inevitably going to start costing more to maintain.

5. Bumps and dents spell brand damage Do your vehicles look unloved, in spite of the fact that they carry your branding as a form of mobile advertisement? Too many dents and scratches will see your image taking a beating too, not to mention the safety risks of some impact damage that is more than cosmetic.

6. Outdated safety features Protect your team with the latest safety technology – like active braking assist, auto emergency braking, and lane departure alerts – fitted as standard in many new vehicles.

Vehicle financing options to suit your business Fleet financing options mean that you don’t need to tie up your working capital by purchasing new vehicles outright. You can choose one or more of these financing plans to suit

your business needs.

• Finance lease Similar to a hire purchase agreement, but without the obligation to purchase. At the end of the lease you can choose to either pay the residual value and purchase the vehicle, or return it to the finance provider.

• Chattel mortgage Also known as a Specific Security Agreement, this option sees the lender advancing loan funds for purchasing the vehicle, and taking a charge over the vehicle as security for the loan until it is repaid.

Lower your emissions and your costs at the same time Small businesses can access a discount of up to 0.7% on their finance rate by choosing electric or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles for their fleet. Ask about the details of

this partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).

Get some advice and discuss your options Wealthwiz has joined the one of Australia’s leading asset finance services providers. We can provide advice about the benefits and any possible drawbacks of the various vehicle financing options. You may want to discuss the tax advantages with your accountant.

Make 2021 the year you grow your business by expanding or updating your fleet, while freeing up your working capital to drive further progress.

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* The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional tax advice. Once you’ve purchased your equipment, you can claim the instant asset write-off during tax time*. As mentioned, it’ll be a one-off claim, making it easier on you and your wallet. *as a part of the stimulus response, this will allow SMEs to instantly write-off assets before 30 June 2021.

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

S

tonecutters Ridge Golf Club is Sydney’s first Greg Norman designed golf course and opened in August 2012.

The course is framed by the natural meanderings of Eastern Creek and surrounding bushland, with three distinct landscaping themes providing a range of sensory experiences, including the district’s most intimidating bunkers.

Originally the Ashlar Golf Club in Blacktown, the club has a strong history of junior development over its 60 years, with up to 70 young golfer participating annually in the Golf Club Cadet Program.

Established as an ideal way for young children (boys and girls) to both get into golf and socialise with other young children, the Cadet Program begins each year with a group training session, then a 24week program on-course from March through to October.

Cadets have access to the driving range and the golf course all year round at no extra charge and additional discounted coaching is also available, plus the ability to attend

Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexccellence.com.au) Stonecutters Ridge GC Academy of Golf member Ryan Cadle and one of the spectacular holes on the course.

Golf Australia’s MyGolf programs run by Stonecutter’s professional team.

The SRGC Academy of Golf offers a transitional program for Cadets to move into Junior Membership, as they develop their skills and knowledge of the game and want to move up and compete and play in club competitions.

The pathway to junior membership provides mentors (which includes the professional team and golf committee) to ensure the youngsters are ready to compete and play with a sound knowledge of rules and etiquette, which equips them with the skills and support to play and enjoy their full golfing experience with all members of the club.

Once a Junior member, they can

compete in unique competitions such as the Junior Tri-Series, Junior Matchplay, Junior Club Champion and Junior of the Year awards.

All academy members are also encouraged to participate in weekly Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) tournaments around Sydney and NSW, including the Harvey Norman Week of Golf in the Hunter Valley.

The SRGC Academy of golf offers (via invitation) an extensive scholarship program that supports young players who wish to focus on golf from a competitive viewpoint, honing and improving their skills. With Bronze, Silver, Gold to Elite Levels, the scholarship program offers financial support for professional coaching, events, etc. Each scholarship player has an

individually customised program to aid and support their development.

This is devised, run and administered by the club’s highly qualified professional staff and covers physical development, technique and mental aspects of the game.

If you have a child or are a young and enthusiastic player looking for a great club to be a part of, contact the SRGC office on 02 9627 7081 Stonecutters Ridge has established itself as a premium golfing destination as 2014-2016 Host Club of NSW Open, 2018 Golf NSW Metropolitan Club of the Year, 2020 Ranked #16 on Golf NSW Top 100 Courses in NSW, 2020 Ranked #36 on Golf Digest Top 100 Courses in Australia and 2020 Ranked #70 on Golf Australia Top 100 Courses in Australia.

Wanderers visit Ronald McDonald House Greater Western Sydney Wanderers A-League players Thomas Aquilina, Bernie Ibini, Daniel Margush, Jordon Mutch, Tass Mourdoukoutas, Kwame Yeboah and Patrick Ziegler visited Ronald McDonald House Greater Western Sydney (RMH GWS) recently to partake in their Meals from the Heart program, cooking and serving home cooked meals for families who have spent a long day on the hospital ward with their seriously ill children.

Over the past eight seasons, the partnership between the

Wanderers and Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney (RMHC GWS) has grown from strength to strength through the development and relationship between the players, staff and families at the house.

The visit to RMHC GWS coincided with the club’s annual match dedicated to the house against Brisbane Roar which saw families from the house be part of the game-day experience.

Swim Sense program empowers adults in the water Almost 250 people drowned in Australian waterways in the 12 months to June 2020.

45% were adults and 80% were men.

These sobering figures demonstrate just how important it is that our community learns to swim, including adults.

Blacktown City Council Key Venues has committed itself to lift the swimming competence level of adults in the community with its Swim Sense program.

Launched in January, the free program covers pool safety, beach safety, basic ‘learn to swim’ and overall water confidence.

The inaugural program received an enthusiastic response from the Blacktown City community, with 90 adults taking part.

The program was run at Council’s 5 leisure and aquatic centres and saw

an even mix of males and females taking part, with a high proportion of participants from a multicultural background.

Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “Learning to swim and being safe and confident in the water is a very important life skill.”

“Blacktown City Council Key Venues staff have a strong history of implementing drowning prevention

campaigns to ensure a safe and dynamic environment is offered at our award-winning facilities.

“Swim Sense is a great initiative that provides adult residents with the knowledge they need to begin their learn-to-swim journey.

“Our hope is that they will continue learning to swim, through our Aqua Learn to Swim program.”

The Swim Sense program equips

participants with vital knowledge as well as practical experience in the water.

“The drowning statistics are alarming – but they also recognise where there is a need for more swim education,” Mayor Bleasdale added.

“It’s very important that people of all ages and backgrounds learn to be safe and confident swimmers so we can work towards reducing the number of drownings.

“These skills are fundamental whether at the local pool, the beach, rivers or lakes. The safety and wellbeing of our community is our number one priority.”

For further information on Blacktown City Council’s learn to swim program please visit: www. aqualearntoswim.com.au *Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2020.

Western News 16 April 2021 Issue 133

Stonecutters Ridge Academy of Golf in full swing

15

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 16 April 2021

Rangers stun Blacktown City to grab derby spoils

By Courtesy Football NSW

J

ack Stewart scored a shock winner for Mount Druitt Town Rangers at Lily Homes Stadium to steal a 1-0 win from under the noses of Blacktown City FC last Sunday afternoon to secure the 2021 Mayoral Cup. Blacktown’s Suleyman Bangura almost opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Travis Major worked the space for him to shoot across goal before it was cleared off the line by Tarek Elrich.

Adam Berry dinked a back-post ball to the waiting Travis Major but Carlos Saliadarre was equal to the headed effort.

Not only were Blacktown City FC’s defensive efforts top-notch but the attacking play from their centre-backs was first class.

Grant Lynch intercepted a ball by Fumoto Kamada before charging halfway up the pitch and slipping a ball into Bangura.

The attacker got his wires crossed and failed to get a shot away just after the half-hour mark.

For all of Blacktown City FC’s dominance, Mount Druitt Town

Rangers made sure they had nothing to show for it with the half-time score locked at 0-0.

Mount Druitt Town Rangers had Saliadarre to thank for keeping them in the match as the pressure piled on.

The keeper made a terrific double save first from Mario Shabow’s cutback shot and then on Major’s followup at point-blank range.

Shabow then thought he’d opened the scoring with a header across goal but Saliadarre was there to deny him again.

After over an hour of unrelenting pressure, Mount Druitt miraculously found the opening goal through Jack Stewart.

His run down the right flank saw

the defender hit the deck as he cut inside before powering home a high shot into the near post to notch up his third of the season.

Their defensive resilience was still on show when Blake Thompson denied Shabow another crack at redemption for Blacktown City FC, blocking a clear cut chance moments after the goal.

A loud gasp filled the stadium twice when Charles Mendy and Major failed to bury their chances into the back of the net inside the final ten minutes.

Blacktown City FC head coach Mark Crittenden was ropable after the game.

“We made enough chances to win

four games they were never in it,” he said.

“We had one defensive lapse and we conceded… we’ve just got be better at finishing, we are getting the balls into the front third.

“We weren’t good enough in the last third, they had one shot on goal and we had more than fifteen.”

The scoreline shows Jack Stewart scored the winner but it couldn’t have happened without Carlos Saliadarre.

“I’m happy to do my job and do my part,” Saliadarre said.

“Jack’s on fire he’s scored again, another solo goal, we can’ task any more of him, as long as the boys bang them in and we in.

“We set ourselves a challenge to win back-to-back, we obviously haven’t done that this season, we haven’t won away from home and we got a clean sheet, we are starting to find our rhythm.

“A lot of people don’t know I’ve been at this against Blacktown City for a long time when I was at (Blacktown) Spartans, so I think this is game number 24 that it’s taken me to finally get a win against them.

“It’s a hurdle I was finally able to get over.”

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