Westernnews 17june2016

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Councillors still frustrated with ‘outdated’ overpass

By Keegan Thomson

BLACKTOWN City Council has lobbied for the past few decades for the State government to widen the Francis St overpass at Rooty Hill but now they’re trying to push the federal government for help.

The Council say the road is congested and pushes traffic to a stand still during peak hours and afternoon traffic.

Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali pointed out the impracticalities of the narrow bridge saying, “The same amount of traffic that passes across the four lane railway bridge at Blacktown has to squeeze over a two lane bridge further down the line at Rooty Hill.”

As part of the national ‘Fund our Future’ campaign, councillors from Blacktown City Council joined forces on the overpass, calling on the Federal government to build a better bridge.

Local Blacktown City engineers have assessed the bridge and estimated the bridge could be resigned, restrengthened and widened for as little as $18 million.

Calling on the Federal government for help the Mayor said, “It’s not a huge amount for a federal government, and the responsibility is definitely theirs.”

It has also been suggested the

Councillor Jacqueline Donaldson, Mayor Stephen Bali and Councillors Charlie Lowles OAM, Tony Bleasdale OAM and Edmond Atalla MP want a wider overpass at Rooty Hill. Source: Supplied.

congestion caused on the overpass, particularly during peak hours, could be a potential community health issue due to its proximity to Mt Druitt Hospital.

“This traffic bottleneck of a bridge is also a potential health hazard, because it slows emergency vehicles to a standstill during peak traffic,” Mayor Bali said.

Councillor Bleasdale OAM said the bridge is outdated and needs to be improved for modern times.

“Two lanes was ok when the bridge was built in the 80s, but now the traffic flow is nearly four times its design capacity and the long queues every day demonstrate the problem,” he said.

Last year the State government announced the Rooty Hill train station would receive a multi million dollar facelift which would include new lifts, ramps, stair upgrades as well as improvements to the concourse.

Fatal trail bike crash A REPORT will be prepared for the Coroner following the death of a trail bike rider in Plumpton.

About 2.25am (Sunday 5 June 2016), police and emergency services were called to Jersey Road, Plumpton, after an unregistered trail bike collided with a white sedan.

The trail bike rider, an 18-year-old man, was thrown from the bike, receiving serious injuries.

He was taken by Ambulance to Westmead Hospital where he died a short time later.

The 21-year-old female driver of the sedan was uninjured.

She was subjected to a mandatory blood and urine sample and is now speaking with investigators.

A crime scene has established at the location, which is being examined by forensic specialists.

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

3 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

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by Kerrie Davies THIS week we saw the horrific news of the terror attack / hate crime in Orlando Florida that killed 50 people when a crazed lunatic went on a shooting spree in a gay night club.

It has been labelled as the USA’s worst shooting massacre of all time in terms of casualties.

Following the tragedy, there has been much debate; about whether the shooting was an act of Islamic radicalism, and also about current gun laws in the USA - or lack of.

For the life of me I can’t understand the American mindset on gun control.

How many deaths do they need to see before they start to think guns are a major problem? Sadly, if a classroom full of killed children from Sandy Hook couldn’t give the pro-gun lobbyists a wake up call, it would seem nothing will.

I understand that in Australia we come from a different cultural background on the topic - there was little to no community backlash when former Prime Minister John Howard changed our gun laws following the massacre at Port Arthur.

I guess the difference is that we don’t have as many people here (thankfully if you ask me!) who hunt for trophy sport nor do we have the chest-pounders bleating about the second amendment and the right to bare arms.

But the reality is, people need to change with the times. Murderous bloodbaths are now a very common event in the states. People are dying in ridiculous numbers, and for what? The right to any sport you like and the right to carry a gun? Imagine if some of the things that used to be deemed “sport” before they were declared inhumane were allowed to continue just so people kept their “rights”? I refer to things like cock-fighting, dog -fighting and even midget-tossing. Imagine if other measures that have been brought in over the years to help protect people were overruled due to ensuring people still had their “rights”? Seat belts, helmets, etc.

Sometimes you just have to face facts that “rights’” should be “wrongs” if they endanger the lives of other people.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

Is your pet in pain this winter?

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT

with Dr Antony Karolis and the team at WellPet Vets phone 1300 WELLPET

Senior Veterinarian and CEO WellPets Vets Mountains, Nepean and St Clair

BRRR its freezing! As we rug up and turn on our heaters, it’s important to remember that our pets feel the cold too! For many of our pets, the cold can mean pain. Arthritis is a painful condition that is generally exacerbated with the coldness of winter.

Arthritis effects the joints. It can occur not just in older pets, as joint cartilage degenerates, but can also be seen in younger pets with congenital joint abnormalities. This means joint pain can occur in any age pet. Arthritic pain is a nagging constant pain.

Most pets will live with this painful condition in silence. Pets don’t cry and seldom call out in pain. It’s therefore up to you as a pet owner to ensure your pet is not suffering in silence.

How do you know if your pet is in pain due to arthritis? The following symptoms can indicate joint pain and should be addressed by your veterinarian; - Slowness and/or stiffness when getting up or moving around

- Inability to jump up on the couch or bed anymore - For cats, inability to jump onto things as high or at all. Often cats will limit their movement.

- Licking at the joint areas - Tenderness in certain areas that may put pressure on joints – may be sore to touch.

- Cats will often growl when picked up or touched on the back.

- Dragging of back legs and worn toe nails - Cats may also show a lack of grooming Is there a cure? No. Unfortunately there is no cure for arthritis. However, it can be managed by a number of different treatment plans to alleviate pain. To find the best arthritis management treatment, speak to your vet. Treatments can include; - Weight control and management - Change in exercise routines and physiotherapy – more gentle approach like swimming may be recommended

- Omega 3 rich dietary change - Joint cartilage protection medication – like Zydax or Cartrophen (injections) - Nutraceuticals like Glyde -An additive to your pets diet. These products contain important minerals and nutrients to increase the cartilage production and reduce inflammation.

- Acupuncture – Wellpet Vets Dr Sarav is trained in acupuncture therapy.

- Anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed by the vet to help reduce pain.

If you think that your pet is showing signs of arthritis or would like to find out more about this condition, please contact WellPet Animal Hospitals on 1300WELLPET NOW! Wellpet Vets will also be holding a Pet information evening in August to educate pet owners on this condition and other common pet conditions.

Details to come on our facebook page – Follow us at www.facebook.com/ wellpetvet

Car: Under-funding of our schools LONDONDERRY MP Prue Car says the NSW Department of Education’s latest Annual Report reveals a massive amount of underspending on the state’s schools.

“The Baird Government committed to investing $14.2 billion on education during 2014-15. Yet the Department’s own report (p.56) shows an actual underspend of $281 million less than promised,” Mrs Car said.

“Millions in unallocated funds should have been spent reducing the crippling maintenance backlog in western Sydney schools or building a new school at Jordan Springs to alleviate overcrowding in growing communities. The report also reveals (p.69) that in 2015 the government decreased spending on maintenance by $26.6 million from the previous year.”

Mrs Car said NSW Labor obtained documents under freedom of information in April that indicated “a staggering $732 million maintenance backlog” across NSW primary and high schools.

In the electorate of Londonderry, Mrs Car said 26 schools have maintenance backlogs totalling $$8,439,040.

“The backlog consists mainly of basic necessities like toilet and sewer repairs, carpet replacement, painting, fixing damaged rooves, installing

Prue Car MP in front of St Marys High School

guttering, replacing windows and other general repairs,” she said.

“Under the Baird Government the school maintenance backlog has surged. Reporting by the NSW AuditorGeneral shows the maintenance backlog jumped a whopping $195 million between 2013-14 and 201415, more than 36 per cent in one year.

“The underspend is particularly concerning given the urgent need for a new primary school at Jordon Springs.

“As well, playgrounds in many

schools across Western Sydney are being taken over by demountable classrooms and this money could have been used to expand schools in growing communities, “Tackling the huge maintenance backlog is more important than coming in massively under budget.

“The maintenance backlog is not for luxury items in schools, it’s for basic things like heaters and fans that don’t work, taps that leak, peeling paint and threadbare carpets,” Mrs Car concluded.

Woman indecently assaulted POLICE are appealing for information following reports that a woman was indecently assaulted in North Richmond last night.

About 11.20pm (Sunday 12 June 2016), a 27-year-old woman was at Hanna Park when she was pushed from behind by an unknown man.

Police have been told the man indecently assaulted the woman and attempted to sexually assault her, before fleeing the scene towards Beaumont Street.

The woman returned to her home nearby and contacted police. She did not require medical treatment.

Officers attached to Hawkesbury Local Area Command attended and commenced an investigation.

As inquiries into the incident continue, police would like to speak to a man who may be able to assist them.

He is described as being about 170cm tall, of medium build, and was seen wearing black ‘parachute’ material pants and a black jacket.

Anyone with information is urged to come forward and contact police via Crime Stoppers.

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Funding now available MEMBER for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla, has announced that applications for funding through the 2016 Community Building Partnership program are now open.

The NSW Government is again committing funds to new infrastructure-based projects that meet a need in the local community.

“These grants are open to local councils and incorporated not-for-profits such as charities, sporting, social and environmental groups that are looking to build or refurbish essential facilities for their community,” Mr Atalla said.

“In previous years, the program has helped local government and charities deliver new infrastructure for schools and community groups, and helped pay for much-needed improvements to local sports facilities, parks and clubs. This is grassroots funding which directly benefits communities.”

Grant applications must have a minimum value of $2,500 to be eligible for funding under the program.

“If your organisation needs funding for the building, refurbishment or enhancement of facilities that deliver positive social, recreational, inclusive

Mayoral Column with Cr Stephen Bali

and environmental outcomes for the community, I encourage you to apply,” Mr Atalla said.

“There is a high demand for funds through the program, so please ensure you take the required time and care in preparing your application against the assessment criteria.”

Applications for funding will be open from Monday 13 June to Friday 22 July 2016.

For information on who can apply, what projects are eligible for funding and how to apply, please visit www. communitybuildingpartnership.nsw. gov.au.

Applications will close at 5pm, Friday 22 July 2016.

Your Voice is Needed Much has been written about the virtues of Badgerys Creek Airport and occasionally some concerns are mentioned. What is the real state of affairs of Badgerys Creek Airport (BCA)? What can we do to improve the situation?

A forum is being held to discuss BCA and the proposal to build the world’s largest incinerator, Energy from Waste plant in Eastern Creek.

Collectively, these two projects will have major impacts on: • Transport, road and rail across out City • Air pollution • Noise pollution • No Curfew • Alternatives Quality of Life Western Sydney is our home.

We live here, raise our families and build communities.

There are also problems in our area. When comparing Western Sydney to eastern Sydney seaboard we have higher incidents of cancer;

respiratory diseases; cardio-vascular diseases; and diabetes.

Average speed on motorways during peak hour is less than 20km/ hour.

Almost an additional million people are moving into western Sydney.

How will we cope? What impact will the airport and the incinerator have?

What planning processes are in place for these huge projects?

Public forums We have organised public forums so you can hear the latest on these proposals and ask questions.

The forums all start at 7.00pm and will be held at: • St Marys Community Centre on June 24 and • Metalla Road Public School, Toongabbie on June 26.

Blacktown City Council is deliberately making you aware of the issues impacting on the Blacktown region so you can make an informed decision about your and your children’s future.

See you at the forum.

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Labor will invest in new migrants ON the campaign trail, Michelle Rowland MP, who is bidding to return to her Federal seat of Greenway, said “instead of demonising new migrants in Australia, a Shorten Labor Government will support and invest in their settlement.”

Last month Labor announced that a Shorten Labor Government would establish an Office for Multicultural Affairs (OMA).

“The OMA will improve coordination, policy development, research and evaluation; and program management in this important area.

The first task of the OMA will be to implement a Community Cohesion Program, to support the skills and development of new migrants to successfully settle in Australia,” Ms Rowland said.

The $28.5 million investment would fund improvements in the Adult Migration English Program (AMEP), Community Hubs and the ‘Racism. It Stops With Me Campaign’.

The Community Cohesion Program builds on Labor’s Advancing Australian Multiculturalism package announced last month.

“Labor knows the most important factor in successful settlement is English proficiency. Supporting new

migrants to learn English, with a focus on workforce participation, underpins social cohesion and economic inclusion,” Ms Rowlands added.

“This is in stark contrast to the Abbott-Turnbull Government which has overseen a bureaucratic nightmare for the AMEP, as it shifted from the Department of Immigration, to the Department of Industry and finally to the Department of Education and Training.

“The $24 million investment in the AMEP will support new courses in workforce participation and gauge the demand for future citizens to learn English on arrival in Australia, rather than waiting years.”

Ms Rowland said Labor would also

provide an additional $3 million for the Community Hubs program.

“Community Hubs provide activities to help settlement in local communities. These include mother and child English language classes, playgroups, parenting support groups, homework clubs, links to settlement support as well as mainstream health and education services,” she said.

“Labor will work with local communities and other interested stakeholders to determine the priorities for additional Hubs and increased resources.

“The final element of Labor’s Community Cohesion Program is $1.5 million towards the Australian Human Rights Commission to continue

and improve the ‘Racism. It Stops With Me’ campaign. We know this program works and combating racism is a critical part of promoting social cohesion.

“This funding will help build the campaign, increase the number of partnership organisations and explore new strategies on how best to tackle discrimination and racism.”

Ms Rowlands said the Turnbull government had slashed funding in important areas.

“Malcolm Turnbull should tell multicultural communities why he supported slashing the Building Multicultural Communities program, one of the first acts of the AbbottTurnbull Government,” she said.

“He should say whether he supports the numerous members of his backbench who continue their advocacy to undermine the Racial Discrimination Act. Bill Shorten and Labor don’t believe anyone has the right to be a bigot.

“Instead of asking migrant support organisations to do more with less, Labor will provide the investments required. Unlike the Liberals, Labor has put forward a detailed plan to provide support for practical social cohesion and economic inclusion.”

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Getting to know ...

Prue Car with Jarrod McGrouther

1. What was your first paid job?

When I was at school I taught my neighbours kids piano in the afternoons 2. What is your guilty pleasure?

Too much retail therapy 3. What is your biggest fear/phobia and why?

I am seriously FREAKED OUT by moths :S 4. What is your worst habit?

Misplacing things – keys, phones, glasses 5. Best advice you’ve even been given?

The legendary Ron Mulock once told me ‘Never give up, never give in, and keep fighting.’

6. If you only had $50 left in the bank, how would you spend it?

I think my three year old Max goes through $50 worth of fruit every two days, so I guess that answers that 7. Favourite holiday destination and why?

My family has a lovely beach house on the South Coast and I have been spending summer holidays there since I was a little girl. Now we take Max down with us and he loves it!

8. Do you have a favourite sporting team?

The mighty Penrith Panthers, of course!

9. Name one reason that you love western Sydney I love that people from Western Sydney are proud of where we come from.

10. In three words, describe your perfect Sunday Playgrounds, pugs, family!

Getting the jump on funding SHANES PARK Equestrian Centre has received $20,000 granted from Chifley Stronger Communities program which has contributed to Blacktown City Council’s commitment to invest $204,770 to undertake facility upgrades.

The redevelopment of both the Grange Sporting Horse Association and Blacktown Pony Clubs previous locations required Council to seek alternate ‘homes’ for both these clubs.

In 2008, Shanes Park Reserve was identified to be the most suitable site with the capacity to accommodate both clubs and to establish the City’s centralised equestrian centre Grange Sporting Horse Association relocated to Shanes Park Reserve in 2010 and have advised that membership numbers have increased since establishment at the Reserve Council officers have been liaising with Blacktown Pony Club about an anticipated relocation to Shanes Park Reserve since 2008.

Council’s ongoing commitment and planning ensured minimal disruption to the clubs activities when it commenced operating at the reserve in February this year.

Facilities at the reserve support the activities of both clubs including – dressage, gymkhana, show riding, equitation, hack work, horsemanship, and one day event facilities.

The Stronger Communities Grant - $20,000 is matched by $20,000 from Council and is being allocated to a lunging yard fence and shade trees.

Fatal bicycle crash – Blacktown A MAN has died after he was found seriously injured at Blacktown earlier this month.

About 7pm on Wednesday 1 June 2016, police and emergency services were called to Flushcombe Road, following reports a bicycle rider had fallen from his bicycle.

The 73-year-old man was taken to Westmead Hospital.

He died about 6.30pm the next night. .

Police from Blacktown Local Area Command are investigating the incident; however, the death is not being treated as suspicious.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Pathway to peace CONGRATULATIONS to Blacktown Police Multicultural Community Liaison Officer Assefa Bekele who was awarded by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Australia on Saturday 4th June.

The award was given to Assefa for the catergory of “Peace Symposium” Pathway to Peace.

Multicultural Community Liaison Officer’s work with local communities and police to strengthen relationships between culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

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Louise Markus Q&A

By Keegan Thomson

LOUISE MARKUS, LIBERAL CANDIDATE FOR MACQUARIE LOUISE Markus has been an MP for the Coalition since 2004 representing first the seat of Greenway, then after a redistribution of the electorate in 2010 she ran and won in Macquarie.

She’s an advocate for young people pledging more jobs and educational infrastructure for the youth if she’s reelected on July 2.

What first motivated you to get into politics?

I have always worked at a grassroots level with the community, I have a social work degree and have worked in that field across the Greater Western Sydney region, including the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury, on a range of responsibilities. During that period of time I saw what happened to everyday Australians, small business people and the most vulnerable every time Labor got in. And so for me, when I was considering running for the seat of Greenway first, I thought I was pretty committed that the Coalition, who was lead by John Howard at the time, would be re-elected because I’d never wanted to see Labor do what they did every time they got back in.

What motivates me now is not just

Louise Markus, Liberal incumbent for Macquarie. Source: Keegan Thomson

what I can contribute and influence in policy on the national scene, but also what I can do for my local community, and I’ve always chosen jobs and roles that have involved service to the community. So I think that is one of the things I really love about my job now.

If the Liberals are reelected what can you do for Macquarie that no one else can?

Well first of all, a Coalition government always delivers what it

promises. First of all, what they will deliver is a foundation of an economy that is well managed, a budget that is managed effectively so we can deliver.

So that will include infrastructure, that will be roads and bridges. If you look at the National Disability Insurance Scheme that we have been rolling out, if you look at the e-health network that we have been rolling out, those kinds of services can only be rolled out under a government where the budget is managed efficiently and effectively. I will continue to see the NBN rolled out and it is rolled out to a significant number of homes and business in Macquarie already. We also have a lot of issues with mobile phone coverage, particularly within the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury region where we have a propensity for natural disasters.

I’m passionate about delivering more in the area for the youth, particularly in the area of providing them opportunities for employment.

In the transition to work program, I and others worked for those who have challenges who have issues transitioning from education to work, or from education to further

study, so the transition to work study which has been rolled out across the Hawkesbury is about about to be rolled out in the Blue Mountains in the coming months.

Do you think you can win Macquarie again?

I never assume anything. I never take this seat or the people I represent for granted. So I’ll continue to work every day, from now until the election, to ensure that the people of Macquarie have the best representation that they deserve. Why I believe that it is better to chose us rather than Labor or anybody else is because I believe we are the only side of politics that can deliver jobs, growth and a stronger community.

What are the three things you’re running your reelection campaign on?

Infrastructure that will create more jobs. Opportunities for young people to transition from work to employment. And guarantee funding for health, education and roads, which will only result from a position of strength and good management of both the budget and economy.

Susan Templeman Q&A

By Keegan Thomson

SUSAN TEMPLEMAN, LABOR CANDIDATE FOR MACQUARIE

SPEAKING out against the proposed Western Sydney Airport, Susan Templeman is prepared to fight her own party on issues she thinks are important to the locals of her community. She’s the Labor candidate for Macquarie and she’s contesting her third federal election.

What made you want to throw your hat into the ring for Macquarie?

When Bob Debus decided to retire, it seemed to me that we needed a local to represent the area, and there was some talk of somebody being brought into the area to replace him, and so I thought that was absolutely the wrong way to go, I thought we needed a local and we needed a woman. I felt strongly that there needed to be a woman, and in fact I spoke to a whole lot of women in the Mountains, and they agreed. So that is what caused me to reflect and say, you know what, I’m at a time in my life where my kids are not so demanding because they’re older and my parents are not so elderly that they need care, and perhaps I might be able to make a difference here, and what really drove me to want to make a difference was a belief that the mental health system doesn’t support young people or older people as well as it could. There are a lot of things where having been a mum and raised kids in this community for

20 years, there are a lot of things where you think we can do it better. What made me want to be a politician was the view that mental health is letting down our young people and if we don’t do something about we are going to see it grow greater and greater. So if you unpack it, it goes back to that, or even further to having been a journalist and wanting to have a better understanding of the world and make it a better place, which is really why I think most politicians want to be politicians.

Compared to the other candidates what can you do for Macquarie?

Well I think what I bring to it is a breadth of experience, and something which is missing a little bit from parliament, and that is the perspective of someone who has run a small business for 25 years, someone who hasn’t been part of the party machine, I didn’t join the Labor Party til I was in my 40s, I bring the wisdom of being 50 something, as opposed to coming just straight out of a political environment.

I just think it is that life experience, which mean I know how we should be funding schools better. It’s not an abstract concept for me, I know what it is like to be P&C President and to struggle to raise funds for what really should be considered as the basics. Like any mum in the Mountains I’ve had

Susan Templeman, Labor’s candidate for Macquarie. Source: Keegan Thomson

kids who’ve needed to go to hospital, I think we should be funding health systems so you don’t need to wait for 8 hours in emergency at Nepean hospital.

So I reckon I bring a few things; life experience, the ability to stand up to a party when I don’t agree with them, and a lack of fear about expressing a view which should be heard but sometimes people are fearful to say.

What are the three things you’d change and fight for if you win the seat of Macquarie?

The number one thing would be to protect this area [the Blue Mountains] and it’s people as much as possible from the impacts of a second airport, because that is set to make a massive difference to the quality of life and the quality of the environment that we live

in. The second thing would be putting funding back into education and health. That would be implementing Gonski and saving Medicare and the third would be NBN. Making sure the Lower Mountains, because it is too late for the Upper Mountains, making sure the Lower Mountains and parts of the Hawkesbury, that have not yet got proper NBN, get a full and really decent fibre NBN that doesn’t rely on copper. That, I think, could fundamentally change the economy of the Lower Mountains.

Compared to other candidates in the Mountains why do you think voters should chose you?

Voters have had seven years to get to know me, and to know what I stand for and more importantly know that I want to be a strong advocate for the things that are important to this electorate. It’s a really diverse electorate and there are lots of really local issues that effect everyone’s day to day life. People know I will fight for the things that matter to our area, it is not much point being a local member if you’re not going to stand up for your community, and I think people have seen the disappointments that occur when your local member isn’t prepared to fight their own party to stand up for what really matters.

CHECK OUT OUR NEXT EDITION TO SEE Q & A’S WITH CANDIDATES FROM GREENWAY AND CHIFLEY

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Angry Anderson bidding for a senate seat as ALA candidate

By Kerrie Davies

GARY “Angry” Anderson has lived an incredibly full life, and most of it has been in the hair-raising, bare-knuckled super-fast lane.

He’s battled drugs, alcohol, depression as well as been a victim of molestation and domestic abuse. But he has beaten his demons and come out on the flip-side - and not just lived to the tell the tale - but has gone out of his way to share it, particularly with our youth in hopes he can help others.

A household name, Angry is probably best known for his Rose Tattoo days, followed by many appearances on television and his involvement in a string of charity events Anderson led the band Rose Tattoo through six studio albums until disbanding the group in 1987, by which time he was the only member remaining from the early line-up. During 1986, as Rose Tattoo was winding down following the recording of Beats from a Single Drum, Anderson joined The Party Boys for an Australian tour, but never recorded with them. By this time Anderson had established himself as an advocate on social issues and made regular appearances on the Channel Nine programs The Midday Show with Ray Martin and then A Current Affair as a human interest reporter.

Now he’s about to give an entirely different career a nudge - he’s running as a Senate Candidate for the Australian Liberty Alliance (ALA) in the July 2 federal election.

I spoke with Angry this week to get the lowdown on why he’s decided to give politics a tilt.

“I wanted to throw my support behind Kirralee (Smith, who is number one on the ALA senate ticket). I like the way the party came about, Necessity is the mother of all invention,” he said.

A new party in the political arena, ALA has over twenty key policy areas, but the one that has arguably gained the most attention with is the party’s pledge to “stop the Islamisation of Australia.” Their manifesto calls for a ten-year moratorium on immigration from Organisation of Islamic Cooperation member countries, excluding persecuted non-Muslim minorities from those countries.

“I was mostly attracted to the ALA’s policy of smaller government, and as romantic as it sounds, the more I read the more I wanted to get involved,” Angry said.

“Traditional conservative government just doesn’t satisfy, and why do we spend so much money yet achieve so little result? It’s like the definition of insanity to repeatedly do the same thing but expect a different result.”

Anderson said he is motivated by

not a career move but a calling, and believes he’d be bringing a wealth of real-life education and experience to parliament.

“I come from a poor, working class background and I’ve been considered a rebel in my time. But I think I can bring some commonsense. I can’t believe we have governments who calculate loss and waste into the budget. They know they’re going to waste money, yet instead of addressing the loss they accommodate it!” Anderson said.

“Our bureaucracy is staffed by the left, and yet when the question is asked why newly elected governments don’t put a broom through departments, the answer is that it would cost too many dollars. So its better to have dead weight?

“When political correctness reared it’s ugly head, I thought, this is not going to go well for us. I’m an oldschool bloke who sees things in old-school terms. And what I see is political correctness has turned our schools into indoctrination rather than education.”

On the topic of “the Islamisation of Australia” policies ALA hold, Anderson was quite clear on his reasoning and didn’t make any attempt to distance from it.

“I’m wearing a jersey and its clearly marked,” he said.

“I believe in the 10-year moratorium because it gives a chance to take a

breather and look at what is going on.

“Sadly, a certain percentage (of Mulsims) aren’t on our side. There are those on the left who support open border policies, when you look at what is going on in the rest of the world, what makes them think Australia will be magically exempt?

“Radical Islamists are a problem, some say 2 per cent, some say 10 per cent, whatever, I see Islam as a flawed ideology that can be interpreted in a negative fashion. Of course there’s the peaceful majority, but the fact is Islam does have quite a few looneys for members and they need to own it, and take one for the team. Team Australia.

“Let’s have a buffer zone, take some deep breaths and look at the problem for what it is.”

In 1993 Gary “Angry” Anderson was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia medal, but he rarely uses the initials after his name that he’s entitled to. People often ask him why he doesn’t, does he not think he’s earned the title?

“I’m earning it,” he said.

“I’m not one to blow my own trumpet. I didn’t feel at the time (of receiving the accolade) that I had done anything special. So I’m happy to spend the rest of my life justifying it.”

Secretdebate

HOW DID YOU RATE BILL SHORTEN’S PERFORMANCE ON Q & A?

He Says.....................................................She Says The result, unless you are a dyed-inthe-wool voter would have to agree Bill Shorten did not lose any swinging voters and quite possibly gained some in his performance..

It was good to finally see a politician answering questions with a few definitive yes’s and no’s rather than ‘the stick to the script’ advisors messages that we are used to seeing. So good to see the absence of three-word slogans that have plagued our political debates for the last six years.

That’s not to say the answers didn’t include the “This is what I am selling messages” but that is the purpose of these public interviews, to inform the public of what you intend to do for them. The interesting part was the focus also on what you don’t intend to do for them. This was very gutsy given what we have heard from both potential leaders to date.

The answers to the representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, Aboriginal people, Medical profession and general public were probably not totally what they wanted to hear but certainly must

have given hope that their issues were not dismissed and may well be further addressed if and when the money is available to do so.

Which gets us to that underlying base for decisions on all things, the money to pay for it. Budgets are difficult to understand for most people. Budget deficits created to supply infrastructure items that will in turn generate future income are no different to household budgets borrowing for a car to get to work in order and earn income.

These items are fundamental to our future Shorten’s comment on education, tax reform and the cyber technology especially his “Do it once and do it right” regarding the broadband network will probably resonate with a lot of frustrated voters.

Fibre is the answer for both broad band and for a prospective leader. I think Bill Shorten showed that he has a backbone full of fibre that we need in any future PM. Will be interesting to see how Mr Turnbull goes next week but on last night’s display he had better be on his game.

do you agree with? Send your vote to nepeannews@aol.com for a chance to WIN! Who win a table for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant including dinner and show.

I’M going to declare straight up that before the show commenced I was never a Bill Shorten fan.

I believe his most glorious moment was when the miners were trapped all those years ago BP - before politics, but any attempts to regain that glory have failed.

While I’ll readily admit that Labor policies are not usually in sync with what I believe is best for the country anyway, I just can’t see this guy ever leading our country.

Something is missing, and it’s not easy to put my finger on what it is.

To me, when he is trying to appear blokey and easy-going, he comes across as stiff and unnatural.

And during the show, when interrupted by host Tony Jones (something TJ

does constantly!) I detected an angry man that was poorly disguised hiding under the facade.

Having said all that, I think he did slightly better than I expected him to. He did seem more plausible when he went off-message, I’m just not sure it was enough to turn skeptical voters who saw the mess and mismanagement of previous Labor governments.

And let’s face it, that’s the real challenge he faces at the polls. Can the electorate take him on as an individual and on his own merits, or will they just see him as a different driver driving the same old clapped-together train of pain that Rudd and Gillard once drove?

I think it will be the later, and Bill’s days of leading his party post-election will shorten.

WHO’S Should we ban party volunteers WINNING & posters at polling booths?

SHE WINS

2016 Federal Election coverage

with Keegan Thomson

Labor brings it to the west OPPOSITION Leader Bill Shorten campaigned in western Sydney with a star studded cast of ALP candidates and Members of Parliament.

Mr Shorten was joined on a tour of the Werrington Park Corporate Centre by local MP for Chifley, Ed Husic, the Shadow Minister for Communications, Jason Clarke, and Emma Husar, the ALP’s candidate for Lindsay.

During his campaign stop Mr Shorten announced if they’re voted into government, the ALP would scrap the existing plan for a copper to the home NBN and would instead continue to roll out Labor’s original plan of fibre to the home.

There was much scepticism around his announcement because Mr Shorten said the ALP could deliver a better service for the same amount of money.

In a statement he said a government he would lead could cap the existing funding to the NBN whilst supplying a better product.

“The Liberals have doubled the cost of their

second rate NBN up to $56 billion. A Shorten Labor Government will cap the total funding for the NBN at $57 billion. Labor will spend exactly the same amount of public funding on the NBN as the Liberals. There will be no impact on the budget from this announcement,” he said.

After his tour of the west Mr Shorten went on to do a a special episode of ABC TV’s Q and A program filmed live at the Joan Sutherland theatre.

He was grilled by voters on a number of topics including the NBN changes, Aboriginal rights, public transport changes and the estimated 300 day waitlist for elective surgery at Nepean Hospital.

One more divisive moment came from local businesswoman Gina Field, after she asked why an ALP government wouldn’t support the Coalition’s proposed tax cuts to small businesses.

She asked, “Are you prepared to match the 10 year plan proposed by the government?”

He bluntly replied, “No we are not prepared to support the plan.”

Labor Leader Bill Shorten (far right) tours western Sydney with Ed Husic MP (second from right). Source: Supplied.

In a follow up Mr Shorten suggested his bluntness and straightforwardness is a good quality of leadership.

“I’d like to tell you what you want to hear, but that isn’t leadership,” he said.

This won’t be the last time the Labor leader is campaigning in the west this week, in fact the ALP will officially launch their campaign on June 19 in western Sydney.

Domestic violence a hot election topic DOMESTIC violence is a hot topic around election time particularly when the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics says nearly 2000 cases of domestic and family violence were reported in the Blacktown LGA in 2015.

With only two weeks until election day both the major party candidates for Greenway have pledged their support to help crack down on the alarming rates of domestic violence assaults within their electorates.

Michelle Rowland, the Labor MP incumbent, has thrown her all our support into the Labor Party’s $88 million Safe Housing program, which will improve transitional accomodation for women and children escaping family violence.

Ms Rowland said, “Here in Greenway, these issues are central to what our society is and our commitment to eliminating domestic violence. The onus is on us to make it work.

“This funding will complement other measures announced, such as the National Crisis Summit on Family Violence, to support those in need,” she said.

This $88 million is still a long way off the $200 million investment proposed by the Coalition government, $100 million of which was announced as apart of the May budget.

Liberal candidate for Greenway, Yvonne Keane, recently hosted a domestic violence forum with the Minister for Women Liberal Senator Michaelia

Yvonne Keane, Liberal candidate for Greenway, with domestic violence frontline charity workers. Source: Supplied.

Cash, which was attended by 20 frontline services.

Ms Keane said her forum helped bring forward the conversation. “It was the first time theses services had ever come together to discuss the challenges they face and opportunities for better outcomes. We gave birth to a new domestic violence network in Greenway that day,” she said.

“Domestic violence is a devastating problem for

our community. Putting aside the resources that it requires from police and our courts, the human impact that it has on the victims and their families lasts a lifetime,” Ms Keane said.

With all this talk and money being thrown at domestic and family violence we can only hope the epidemic that is destroying so many lives can end soon.

Bilic is Libs man in McMahon FEDERAL Liberal has nominated former Blacktown City Councillor George Bilic as their candidate for McMahon in the upcoming federal election.

Until recently it was up in the air as to who would be the Coalition’s nomination for McMahon with sources within the Liberal Party suggesting it could be former Senior Police Officer Ray King.

Mr Bilic has previously work with local church organisations and volunteered in charity groups across the Blacktown and western Sydney region.

According to his website, if he was elected he would continue to support Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s commitment for an increase in employment opportunities at a local level.

Currently holding the seat of McMahon is ALP MP and Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen, who won the seat by claiming 48 percent of the primary vote.

Sportsbet have the odds very much in favour of Mr Bowen retaining McMahon with Labor sitting on $1.01 and the Coalition sitting on $16.00.

11 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

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Legends of the West

By Greg Martin

COMING from a missionary background, I was not acquainted with the G-Spot until I began contributing articles to this fine publication.

Finally learning about the G-Spot opened up a whole new world for your writer.

I am of course referring to informative and always hilarious The G-Spot column which regularly graces these pages.

It is written by Gina Field, who as well as being a well-respected and highly successful businesswoman, really is Australia’s very own version of Phyllis Diller or Joan Rivers.

It wouldn’t surprise me that my editor, in requesting a regular column about security from Gina, didn’t think: “Crikey (she wouldn’t say ‘crikey’ but something harder), what can Gina write about security on a regular basis to keep our readers interested”.

But time-after-time, Gina produces her jottings to the delight of all our readers.

If you can’t get any joy out of The G-Spot, well you’re not really trying!

Gina’s perspective on life which makes her column such an interesting read, has been garnered by spending all her working life in the security game.

A game in which she has met people from all walks of life – the princes, the paupers, the needy, the greedy, the scoundrels and scallywags – and the just plain stupid.

The “stupid” regularly provide fodder for thought when Gina is compiling her column.

Gina is the principal at Nepean Regional Security, a multi-award winning company which has developed a reputation as one of the premier firms in the security business.

She has a fleet of security vehicles across Greater Sydney and employs a staff of 40.

But it wasn’t always so!

“I started the business at home, setting up a small office in the corner of my bedroom – had to put the joint to some use,” she laughed.

That was in 1998, 10 years after she first entered the workforce out of Year 12 at Petersham High School.

Your writer asked Gina why she sought a career in the security business.

“I was always a contrary person and hated it when people told me that some particular form of work wasn’t suited for a girl,” Gina explained.

“I was very fit in those days from working out at the gym, playing squash, softball and swimming.

“But I reckon my best credential in being a successful security guard was having the gift of the gab – many, many times throughout my career, that gift of the gab has calmed situations where previously physical force was required.

“Anyway, I answered a newspaper advertisement and was one of about 50 people who turned up on the one day for an interview – I was the only woman.

“The job was with a new firm which was being set-up and the person in charge thought I was there to apply for the receptionist job but I soon set him straight.

“I reckon I got the job because of the novelty factor of having a woman security guard.

“It was tough going from the very beginning as I met resistance from my male colleagues – some refused to work with a woman because they believed I couldn’t provide any

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GINA FIELD assistance in times of trouble.

“Clients told my employer that they should only have to pay half price for having a woman providing security to their businesses and on one occasion, an entire construction site closed down because of their refusal to have a woman security guard on the premises.

“But there were a couple of blokes who respected my work ethic and ability and they kindly allowed me to accompany them on mobile patrols on my own time.

“At the end of my time with that company I became one of the very first female mobile patrol officers in the security business.”

In 1990 Gina joined Chubb Security and during her eight years with the giant firm learned all aspects of the security game – so much in fact that she decided to start her own business.

“Yes, you could say my beginnings with Nepean Regional Security were very basic,” Gina again laughed.

“The office in the bedroom, driving an old clapped-out Holden Camira and buying, for just $450, a guard dog.

“I went to a kennel which sold

guard dogs and was shown animals which had price tags ranging from $4000 to $10,000.

“I asked was there anything very cheap on their books that I could buy and was taken down the back and shown this mongrel-looking, fleabitten dog with a bent left foot.

“I was told, ’he’s yours for $450’ and I replied, ‘sold’.

“His name was Prince and he turned out to be the best security dog ever!

“He was so loyal and he worked with me until he was retired at 12 – the old fella lived with me for another four years before passing away – such a wonderful dog.”

Gina worked solo for three years, working seven days a week, day and night, and gradually she began to build the business.

The turning point for NRS was in 2007, a year after she married, husband, Paul.

“I put in a tender to provide security for former Sydney Olympic sites and secured the contract – business catapulted overnight,” Gina said.

Down the years since, Gina and NRS have earned a plethora of awards

13

– the walls in her North Penrith office are covered with them.

The most recent award is one of which not only Gina and her staff can be proud, but all of the Nepean.

Gina Field has been awarded a bronze ‘Stevie’ at the annual and prestigious International Business Awards.

The Stevie Awards are the world’s premier business awards.

They were created in 2002 to honour and generate public recognition of the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide.

There were 3500 entries across 60 nations and for Gina and NRS to gain third place is a truly remarkable achievement.

Gina is also now the President of

the Penrith Chamber of Commerce.

Gina Field is a truly remarkable woman.

Attractive, intelligent and blessed with street ‘smarts’, she has the satisfaction of gaining fulfilment and total satisfaction in what she has achieved.

Now, dear readers go and hit the G-Spot!

Gina Field was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean

by Kerrie Davies.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

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14

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Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

Barnier Public School refurbishment LAST week Barnier Public School officially opened their newly refurbished oval, thanks to a $50,000 grant provided under the NSW Government’s 2015 Community Building Partnership program.

Member for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly MP was on hand to congratulate the school on completion of the new synthetic turf covering the oval area, helping to make recess and lunch times on the oval safer for the school students and ensuring easier maintenance and lower ongoing costs for the school.

“This is a great outcome for the school students attending Barnier Public School and I congratulate the hard work and effort devoted by the school’s P&C committee in managing this project to completion” said Mr Conolly.

Other projects to receive funding under the 2015 Community Building Partnership program in the Riverstone electorate are: • Riverstone and Districts Little Athletics Centre - $30,958 for construction of building for equipment storage, office and meeting area.

• Blacktown City Council - $40,000 for playground upgrade at Blake Street Park Quakers Hill.

• Quakers Hill Public School East P&C - $30,000 for part funding of astro turf on soccer field.

• Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre &Community services Inc - $24,079

for play area for child minding, training and education equipment.

• Scouts Australia - $15,000 for repairs to Riverstone Scout hall.

• Life Education NSW Ltd - $9,963 for a wheelchair lift on the mobile learning centre.

“Building and restoring local infrastructure as well as supporting local construction jobs are a welcome boost for our local

community in Riverstone both in economic and lifestyle terms,” Mr Conolly said.

Meanwhile, the 2016 Community Building Partnership program is set to open for new applications in the coming weeks. Information will be provided as soon as it is announced on the program’s website at www.communitybuildingpartnership. nsw.gov.au

Riverstone CBD caught in the middle of political bickering

By Keegan Thomson

A CIRCLE of blame has been incited by the Riverstone Schofields Chamber of Commerce after they accused the Blacktown City Council of neglecting the suburbs and their ratepayers but Mayor Stephen Bali says the state government holds responsibility.

“Riverstone has been hampered in the past decade by NSW government investment in other areas, e.g.

Rouse Hill Town Centre, and by the government’s proposal to put an overpass through the town centre, splitting it in two,” Mayor Bali said.

Recently the Riverstone Schofields Chamber of Commerce sent a letter to Mayor Bali’s office with eight questions and accusations, including “Council has neglected Riverstone and is happy for it to be transferred to The Hills or Hawkesbury Councils”, “Council held back development in the Riverstone business area, but allowed development in surrounding suburbs” and “no infrastructure is being developed in the Riverstone town centre to cater for the increasing population around it”.

A spokesperson for Blacktown City Council promptly replied to the Chamber of Commerce’s questions and they blamed the NSW state government for a number of the issues raised by the business group.

In response to the question about council holding back development in the Riverstone business park, the spokesperson responded, “Development in the surrounding suburbs has been rezoned by the State government – NOT Council.”

The spokesperson also said the Blacktown City Council supports the

community and opposes the proposed overpass in Riverstone.

“A major factor is resolution of the opposition by Riverstone residents and Council to a State Government proposal to place an overpass through the town centre, splitting in two.

Blacktown City Council strongly supports the community by stridently opposing this decision and is seeking to have this decision changed,” the spokesperson said.

The overpass in question would run over the level crossing on Garfield road.

Kevin Conolly, Liberal MP for Riverstone, told Western News the Mayor was misleading his constituents.

“The Mayor’s comments around the so-called overpass are misleading.

The government has not decided to build a overpass at Garfield road. Our Road Network Strategy for the North West Growth Area includes several crossings developments at Schofields Rd and Bandon Rd but not at Garfield Rd,” he said.

Though he did say the RMS has the level crossing at Garfield Rd flagged for future consideration.

Mr Conolly pointed out the Blacktown City Council owned the “tired and rundown” MarketPlace shopping precinct in Riverstone, and it was their responsibility to fix it up, not the state government’s.

He also added, “In terms of infrastructure in Riverstone, there is a brand new police station there, which only recently opened.”

With the blame game going round and round this won’t be the last time we’ll hear from the three parties involved in this pickle.

Who do you think is right? keegan@nepeannews.com.au

University students embrace SALSA program

FOR the 12th consecutive year, the Students as Lifestyle Activists (SALSA) program is being rolled out in high schools across western Sydney.

Volunteer university students take part in a SALSA workshop that equips them to train Year 10 students to coach and motivate Year 8 students, empowering them to make healthy lifestyle choices in a fun and informative way.

Western Sydney Local Health District Primary Health Care Education and Research Unit Associate Professor Smita Shah said at a time when western Sydney is

experiencing a diabetes epidemic, the SALSA program’s ability to influence so many young people is crucial.

“Already this year, we’ve held three SALSA educator workshops, with more than 90 university students involved,” she said.

“We are excited to continue our strong association with the University of Sydney, Western Sydney University and welcome our new partners, the University of Notre Dame and the University of New South Wales.”

The trained university students will team up with one of 28 high schools in western Sydney who have enrolled in the program.

SALSA recruit and Parramatta resident Melissa Wehbe got involved in the program because she was interested in public health and the lessons were very clear and condensed.

“I completed the training in April and have educated a group of Year 10 students from Erskine Park High School,” the 21-year-old said.

“The Year 10’s will then teach the Year 8 students about healthy nutrition.

“We hope the Year 8 students will take this information home and share it with their families.”

SALSA’s effectiveness is recognised outside western Sydney, with demand

for the program spreading across greater Sydney, nationally and internationally.

“Initiatives that change the attitudes, eating behaviours and exercise habits of secondary students are rare, but SALSA actually works,” Smita said.

“It is critical that collaborative action is taken to improve the lifestyle behaviours of young people.”

If you are a university student or faculty member interested in being involved in the SALSA program, contact Assoc Prof Shah on 9845 6505 or visit: http://sydney.edu.au/ medicine/public-health/salsa-triple-a/ salsa/index.php

15 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

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Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

Where did the Political Statesman go? with TP AS the impending federal election draws closer I’ve come to realise that there are few people who really care about the whole election process; aside from the candidates themselves and the people who benefit from one party or another getting elected.

As I drive past the illegallymounted corflutes brandishing the overly-cheerful looking faces of the hopeful candidates I’m struck by a sense of apathy.

Not because I don’t care about the outcome, actually it IS because I don’t care about the outcome! Once upon a time the two major parties and what each of them stood for were poles apart.

Now we see two parties with little to differentiate them. I can hear you saying, “hang on a minute I wouldn’t vote for that @&%*#@ party if my life depended upon it!” Of course they have policy differences, although they are becoming less obvious. What I’m talking about is less to do with policy and more about how both parties have allowed politics to be dumbed down to an all time low.

Whilst it’s never been the most revered institution, it was occasionally peppered with statesmen who stood for something and stood by the ideologies of their party at all costs.

Whether you liked them or loathed them, we had real leadership in Whitlam, Howard, Carr, Greiner and

Hawke. I like to think this was due to their acumen as communicators and preparedness to make the tough decisions and stick to them, perhaps because they were lucky enough to be living in a time not dominated by the 24/7 news cycle and the scourge of social media.

Howard was probably impervious to these modern-day pressures as he came through the ranks in a time when it was still cool to stick to your guns. Most recently we have seen our supposed leaders on all sides of politics being slaves to the last headline in the media.

They panic about any negative press and find themselves making policy on the run without consulting their team. This of course waters down the integrity of policy and what the party

stands for, weakens leadership and cripples the Government’s ability to get things done.

The problem of course is that they are more concerned about their personal political careers rather than the betterment of our Nation or State.

It’s a wonder anything gets done with all of these Pollies and their super-sized egos constantly checking into their Twitter, Facebook and soundbites on radio or TV. In a time when we are more connected than ever, most of them have lost touch to what normal people think about anything. They are stuck inside an echo chamber where likeminded people all agree on what is real and true, sadly these beliefs are very often off the mark.

Anyway let’s get back to our hapless

wannabes,aka candidates, who want to become part of this increasingly shallow and irrelevant profession. Some may believe they are going in to make a difference, for many it’s about making up a number in the stable of political powerbrokers.

Not that these poor saps with a serious dose of “candidates disease” would either know or admit to it.

They generally believe that they are the best person for the job and that they will become the next big thing only to be eaten up and spat out by the political machine.

They don’t realise that their usefulness expires once they become elected as leaders and become only interested in their personal popularity.

That is until the polls show a drop in popularity of the leader and the numbers are needed for the next leadership spill which is more likely than not as every new contender sees themselves as the saviour of the party.

Ironically, this practice has become so commonplace that I’m almost sold on the idea of adopting a similar system to the USA where you vote in the President for maximum set terms.

So when you go out to vote in the next federal election, just think about the fresh hopeful faces and keep an eye out to see how long it takes for that inevitable look of disillusionment to set in.

Opinion: Flooded by bureaucrats, eroded by inaction

By Bart Bassett

CLOSE your eyes and imagine for a minute that you live next door to a park and that over time the park is disappearing. You keep informing the local council and State Government authorities but they ignore you and do nothing about it. Now imagine that after years of being ignored you wake up one morning and not only has the park completely disappeared but so has your backyard, your pool and part of your house. Now what would you think of the government authorities who did nothing? That’s right, we can’t print what you would be saying about the head-in-the-sand bureaucrats and the do-nothing elected officials, it is unprintable!

Well, following the torrential rain and king tides last week, as most of you know that is exactly what has happened to many residents on the northern beaches. But it is not just those people who have been affected by bureaucratic incompetence, people living on the banks of the Hawkesbury River and other waterways like South Creek have very similar problems.

The issue is that the State Government has been influenced over decades by the bureaucrats who have gone out of their way to make it

Photo: Scott Thompson

virtually impossible for an individual to protect their property from erosion caused by the neighbouring ocean or waterway. This is when the meaning of bureaucrat becomes blatantly obvious - that being an official in a government department, in particular one who is perceived as being concerned with procedural correctness at the expense of people’s needs.

The bureaucrats have used the environment as their main argument in stopping anti-erosion walls being constructed, but if they are worried about the environment, what about

the loss of valuable public land into the ocean and waterways? And then the additional environmental damage created when trying to rectify the massive destruction? When river banks along the Hawkesbury River erode, the sediment then causes the river to silt up - which then eventually requires dredging to remove the siltation so that the river can remain open for boating activity and irrigation for farmers.

The bigger problem is that the damage, when it starts, is usually on public land along beaches and waterways but when it is left

unchecked by the responsible Council or State Government agency, the problem eventually affects private landowners, which has become so obvious on the northern beaches and parts of the Hawkesbury River.

It is time that a responsible approach was established so that public authorities are responsible for ensuring erosion is stopped before it gets near private land. In cases where government has failed to act and private land has been damaged or is threatened with damage, a straightforward approval process for private owners to build erosion control structures with the assistance rather than hindrance of bureaucrats needs to be established as a matter of urgency.

I won’t, however, be holding my breath!

I bet we will be having this same discussion next time an east coast low weather system hits us and the politicians will be in front of the cameras nodding and looking concerned and sympathetic as they always do, but nothing proactive will change in the meantime.

No wonder the public has lost faith in politicians and our political system - the unelected bureaucrats took over a long time ago and they run the show unchecked.

18

localnews local

Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

Sightseeing around southern New Zealand

By Ben Cranney

A FRIEND was marrying into the wrong side of the Tasman and we were off to New Zealand. We hired a campervan, after a travel agent said that you can pull over and sleep anywhere. This isn’t actually true, and we spent more time than we would have liked looking for official campgrounds. We seemed to miss them, though, and spent a number of nights under ‘no overnighting’ signs.

One of these was near the Franz Josef Glacier, where we spent a day

hiking. This was the trip highlight.

We marvelled at the blue ice, walked through ice archways, climbed into little caves and wished we had more time to explore. The guides were great. They made it very easy, and provided us with gear and knowledge to keep us safe and dry.

The Island’s scenery is amazing, but we missed a bit of it because we had to drive into the night a few times to find somewhere to sleep. Some things are worth seeing in the dark, though, such as the underground river in the caves at Te Anau. After they confiscated our lights and cameras,

we took a boat ride down the pitchblack river to the star scape at the cave’s end, where 1000’s of glowworms speckled the roof.

Te Anau also offers real stargazing, but we didn’t have time for it, as we were on our way to Milford Sound for another boat ride. The Sound is well worth it, but for two underdressed Aussies in the wind and rain, it didn’t quite live up to the hype. The site of the seals lounging on the shore was pretty special, though.

Our last stop was Queenstown, New Zealand’s skiing and extreme sport capital. Head to the top of

Bob’s Peak by Gondola for a great view of the town, take out the mountain bikes or go for a jet boat down the gorge. For days trips of a different pace, spend some time exploring the wineries or head to Puzzling World. It may be meant for families, but this place of illusions made two twenty somethings feel like big kids.

There are plenty of other things do in the south, from hiking through the wilderness to a footy game at Edin Park. And with a whole northern island to explore as well, the Tasman is well worth crossing.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel There Must Be Angels - Part One BACK in those heady, hazy, happy, hippy days of the seventies, there was an apochryphal story doing the rounds about a guy in California who had taken a drive in the Mojave Desert as you do - and had got totally lost.

Just as he was driving along thinking he would end up as a sun-bleached skeleton, he saw a hitchhiker. He stopped to pick him up and the hitchhiker directed him to civilization and safety. Obviously, the guy was overjoyed but when he turned to thank him, the man had completely disappeared and leading the love and peace generation, was convinced that an angel had come to save him.

Now I am not the sort of clairvoyant who understands that much about karma, chakras, crystals or, for that matter, angels. I do ask Angel Michael for help and, although not a Catholic, I do pray to St Joseph who I understand is one of the go to guys. I should believe more after having had a very interesting experience with St Joe in France many years ago. I was going through a rather impecunious stage in my life being cash poor

but asset rich and I had to make the decision whether or not to sell my much-loved home.

In typical cavalier fashion, I decided to duck the issue and take off to France for a holiday with my daughter and a rather expensive luxury called

Geoffie. I was determined to find reasonably cheap accommodation especially as Geoffie kept telling me I couldn’t afford things while scoffing truffles and foie gras. One morning I was in Rheims Cathedral and finding myself in the Chapel dedicated to St

Joseph, I prayed to him to show me the path my life would take. Rich or poor, I would accept his decision, but I would like to know please.

I drove through hail, sleet and snow for six hours - Geoffie didn’t drive because it made him nervous. When we finally arrived at our destination there was no room at the Inn, well at least the none of the ones that didn’t smell of cat pee or look like they had a dead mother in a rocking chair in the back and Anthony Perkins on Reception. The only hotel we could find was a very expensive one and, in spite of Geoffie’s bleatings that we should drive on to the next village, I was exhausted and so in we went. An hour later, fresh from a marble tub the size of a small swimming pool and curled up in front of a log fire with a glass of champagne, contemplating a Michelin starred dinner, I thought back to that morning St Joseph had certainly shown me the road my life would take in no uncertain manner.

The Unintentional Medium is available on line and from any good book store.

Western Sydney film makers love crowdfunding

By Keegan Thomson

CROWDFUNDING is turning the dream of film making into a reality, particularly for those in western Sydney.

Recently the independently produced and crowdfunded film Broke, directed and written by western Sydney local Heath Davis, was screened nation wide.

Instead of the traditional methods of securing financial backing, crowdfunding goes to the masses and asks charitable and generous people to donate money towards a project.

Angela Pezzano, director and producer at Nuh Productions, a film production company based in western Sydney, is at the moment undertaking a crowdfunding campaign through the website Indiegogo.

She told Western News she has found it hard to get grants from the government to support her film company so instead she has had to branch out and go to crowdfunding for help.

“People say there are lots of grants out there for film producers but it is really hard to get any of the funding because we don’t

Poster for Who Knew. Source: Nuh! Productions.

fit with any of the categories.

Unless you’re really new or you have a famous face attached to the company you can’t get any money,” Ms Pezzano said.

The crowdfunding campaign will lead to the funding of Nuh! Productions’ first feature length film entitled Who Knew, which will feature a cast mainly made up of local western Sydney actors and film makers.

So far the crowdfunding campaign has had a slow start but Ms Pezzano has called for faith.

“We really need people to believe in us,” she said. “This film will be made no matter what. The story is far too important.”

She described the film as a coming of age drama about two best friends and their journey through the last year of high school and into the outside world.

On top of this she covers the important and always relevant topics of eating disorders, family breakdowns, addictions and sexuality.

You can donate to the campaign www.indiegogo.com/ at/WhoKnewMovie with Ms Pezzano sending out personal thanks to everyone who donates.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 A representative (8) 5 A country in Africa (6) 9 Brazilian monetary unit (8) 10 Container (6) 12 Source of illumination (2 words) (5,4) 13 Short choral composition (5) 14 Plate (4) 16 Glowing (7) 19 An expert in the analysis of Scriptures (7) 21 50% (4) 24 Ownership shares (5) 25 Collection of stories (9) 27 Prisoner (6) 28 Word game played with tiles (8) 29 Beat hard (6) 30 A quorum for a Jewish religious service (8)

solution 3/6/16

19 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

DOWN 1 Tame (6) 2 A public waiting room (6) 3 Fantastic (5) 4 From end to end (7) 6 Olympic winner’s prize (2 words) (4,5) 7 Bedtime alcoholic drink (8) 8 Footnote (8) 11 Ski lift (1-3) 15 Hockey players wear these (2 words) (3-6) 17 A close-fitting pullover shirt (3-5) 18 Activist (8) 20 Panache (4) 21 Electronics brand name (7) 22 Candy (6) 23 Secondary school (6) 26 Female organ (5)

westernhistory western

20 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

110 year anniversary: Blacktown – then and now

B

LACKTOWN Shire was first created by the Local Government Act of 1906, when the demand on the State Administration to provide and maintain services was failing to deliver to expectations.

A temporary Council was appointed in Blacktown Shire comprising of Councillors Angus, Smith, Sherlock, Pearce and Major Walters.

The first Blacktown Temporary Shire Council meeting was held at 10.30am on June 13, 1906 in the Rooty Hill School of Arts. The temporary Council at its first meeting elected Mr. Richard Joseph Sherlock, a law clerk, as the first Chairman.

It was decided at this meeting that the Council should hold its future meetings at Blacktown and the next meeting was held on June 27 at 7.30pm in the Blacktown Public School.

During this time Wards as we know them today were referred to as Ridings; A, B & C. The first election for councillors was held on Saturday, November 24, 1906 and they first met on Saturday, December 8, 1906.

Councillor Thomas Willmot was elected Shire President. Councillor Willmot had a good deal to do with the supply of woodblock to Sydney’s streets and is buried in Prospect Churchyard (Saint Bartholomew’s Church).

Councillor Willmot was Shire President from 1906 to 1910 and again in 1912 and 1913. He was a Sunday School superintendent for 35 years at St Mary’s Church, Toongabbie and owned the district’s first phonograph.

The suburb of Willmot, established as part of the Mount Druitt housing development in 1971, is named after him.

By the late 1930s electricity was available in most parts of the Shire and electric trains commenced services to Blacktown in the 1950s.

By proclamation in the New South Wales Government Gazette of June 9, 1961, the Shire of Blacktown became the Municipality of Blacktown from June 17, 1961. The first Mayor of the Municipality was Alderman A. Ashley Brown.

In 1979, Blacktown became a City – Blacktown City Council. This proclamation reflected the dramatic increase in population. The first Mayor of Blacktown City Council was Councillor John Aquilina.

By 1985 over 202,000 residents lived in Blacktown City. The City had become a prime area to locate industry with access to major road and rail networks.

In 2016, some 7,000 new residents are welcomed each year to

the City and the population exceeds 340,000; living in 48 residential suburbs with another 12 planned. There are ten railway stations within the Local Government Area, 888 parks and reserves, 21,000 businesses, 106 primary and secondary schools, 3 TAFE college campuses and 1 university campus.

It is anticipated Blacktown City’s population will exceed 400,000 by 2020.

Early History of Blacktown The earliest reference to events in what is now the City of Blacktown was the first sighting of the Blue Mountains from Prospect Hill by Captain Tench’s party in the year 1789.

The Western Road, now the Great Western Highway, was constructed with convict labour and some of the convicts are buried close to it just west of Eastern Creek, but the site of graves is unmarked and the exact location unknown.

The Great Western Railway was built through Blacktown in 1860 and the Richmond Railway some years later (1864).

The oldest historical residence in the Shire of Blacktown is the Rouse Hill House and Farm, built by Richard Rouse, the one-time superintendent of works in the young Colony. Mr Rouse came to New South Wales in the early 1800s and first lived in a tent in Sydney. He received land grants that were increased by 30 acres each time his family increased.

EXTENDED BLACKTOWN TIMELINE 1906 The Shire of Blacktown was created by the Local Government Act of 1906. The first Council meeting was held at the Rooty Hill School of Arts.

1912 First purpose-built council chambers built.

1916 Population 6,000.

1922 The 3rd annual Blacktown Show was held for the first time at the Blacktown Showground on March 3, 1922.

1930 Electricity came to Blacktown.

1939 + Over 1,000 people from Blacktown enlisted to serve during WWII (1939 – 1945). Blacktown Council Chambers extended 1955 First electric train comes to Blacktown.

1958 Blacktown Ambulance Station was opened in June by the State Governor, Sir Eric Woodward.

1961 Blacktown Olympic Memorial Pool opened after years of community fund raising. Blacktown becomes a Municipal Council on 17th June.

1966 Population 111,488.

1967 Blacktown’s Public Library opens, after 8 months there are 22,000 members.

1968 Lalor Park Branch Library opens.

1970 Animal Holding Facility built.

1972 Westpoint Shopping Centre, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Shopping Centre open.

1973 Population 165,000. The first Crafty Bunyip Festival (today: Blacktown City Festival) was held. Mount Druitt Swimming Pool opened.

1975 Population 165,000 1977-78 Mount Druitt Branch Library & Riverstone Branch Library open.

1979 Blacktown Municipality is proclaimed a City on March 7.

1982 Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, opens Mount Druitt Hospital 1988 Nurragingy Reserve opens as part of the Bicentennial Project.

Blacktown Local Environmental Plan adopted.

1990 First race at Eastern Creek raceway 1994 Blacktown Ring Road opened 1995 New railway station and bus interchange opens in Blacktown.

Nirimba Education Precinct (formerly HMAS Nirimba) opens.

1996 Population 232,219 2000 Blacktown Olympic Park becomes the venue for Olympic softball and 2nd venue for Olympic baseball during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

2001 Saint Bartholomew’s Church is restored. Population 256,364.

2002 Blacktown Arts Centre opens in the former Christ Church, Flushcombe Road, Blacktown.

2003 Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope opens.

2004 Bicentennial of the Battle of Vinegar Hill. Council acquires Grantham Heritage Site 2005 New Blacktown City Max Webber Library opens on Flushcombe Road.

2006 Population 271,712. The city celebrates a Centenary of Local Government.

2007 Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope’s fourth millionth visitor; Natasha Crofts of Prospect, presented with the Key to the City of Blacktown; Blacktown City Library Service turns 40 2008 Launch of the “I love Blacktown” campaign; Restoration of historic house “Neoblie” begins, restoration of “The Manse” completed.

2009 25th Anniversary of Sister Cities relationship with Porirua, New Zealand; Dennis Johnson Library, Stanhope opened; Village Green project started; 2010 Grantham administrative building opened; Ropes Crossing Community Resource Hub opened; $5m revitalised Village Green opened.

2011 Population 301,097. 8 millionth visitor to Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope; Popondetta Park Masterplan adopted; Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney’s Training and Administration Centre Opened; 50th anniversary of Blacktown Aquatic Centre; Mount Druitt Community Hub opened 2012 Stonecutters Ridge Neighbourhood Centre Opened; Riverstone Library & Digital Hub launched; Blacktown International Sportspark and Blacktown Libraries and the Blacktown City Festival websites launched.

2013 Bungarribee Community Resource Hub and Ponds Community Resource Hub opened; 2014 Blacktown Showground awarded “Best Playspace Over $1 million” in the NSW Parks and Leisure Association awards.

2015 Lalor Park Community Resource Hub and Glenwood Community Resource Hub opened; Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope received its 11 millionth customer. Council protests against portrayal of Mount Druitt in SBS program Struggle Street 2016 110th anniversary of Local Government in Blacktown; Population 348,000. $15 million replacement for its current Animal Holding Facility announced. Council gains accreditation as a White Ribbon workplace.

Blacktown celebrates 110 years of local government BLACKTOWN City Council celebrated its 110th anniversary by staging a special meeting at Rooty Hill School of Arts on Wednesday: the location of the first council meeting held on June 13, 1906.

“One hundred and ten years ago, almost exactly to the day, a group of six people met in the School of Arts and instituted community oversight into the way their local area was managed,” the Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali said.

“It is a form of government that has existed for thousands of years and embodies a basic principle of human rights – people should retain the power to administer themselves for the benefit of the entire community.

“110 years later, we are still doing this: something conveniently ignored in all the rhetoric pushed out by our state government, which has spent most of this year deliberately denigrating councils in order to gain support for their policy of forced amalgamations.”

According to Council records, in 1906, the population was less than 3,000; the estimated income from rates for the new council was 1,522 pounds, and the land valuation was 304,866 pounds.

The rate was struck at a penny in the pound – or .41 per cent.

Blacktown City Council in session for its 110th anniversary meeting at Rooty Hill School of Arts

Ranjit Singh was one of the 20 Blacktown residents chosen to become Australian Citizens at Blacktown City Council’s 110th Anniversary meeting.

Blacktown’s first elected Councillors

Blacktown’s current councillors:

The first road making plant was purchased – a wrought iron horsepulled road roller for 40 pounds and a combination water tank and cart for 20 pounds. The maintenance crews kept their tools at home and were often required to camp out rather than return home each night.

“Move forward 110 years, our population is some 348,000; the income from rates is forecast to be over $190 million, the land valuation is $33.2 billion and growing,” said Mayor Bali.

“Our rates are .3146 in the dollar, less than the 1906 rate of a penny in

the pound - .41 per cent!”

At the special council meeting, 20 Blacktown residents became Australian Citizens.

“It was fitting that we should mark our 110th year of growth by welcoming new residents to the city and to the country,” Mayor Bali said.

21 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

SUDOKU: EASY

WORD SEARCH

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

22

DOGS SOLUTION: 20th May

INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

BEAGLE BLOODHOUND BOXER BULLDOG CHIHUAHUA COLLIE DACHSHUND

DALMATIAN DINGO GREYHOUND HUSKY MASTIFF PEKINESE

POINTER POODLE PUG SAMOYED SHEEPDOG TERRIER

PROPERTY SALES AND LEASING, NOW OPEN IN MARSDEN PARK 9835 3355 | www.bennettproperty.com.au

Foreign buyers to pay higher property taxes

By Matthew Bennett, Bennett Property Group

IN a move that could ease pressure on NSW property prices, overseas investors who buy up residential real estate in NSW will be slugged with higher stamp duty fees and land taxes.

Foreign buyers will have to stump up an extra four per cent stamp duty from this month and pay an additional 0.75 per cent on their annual land tax

by January 1, 2017.

The extra stamp duty fee is similar to, but not as harsh as, the additional seven per cent foreign buyers in Victoria will have to pay from July 1.

Overseas buyers south of the border also have to fork out an extra 1.5 per cent on land tax.

The State Government’s move comes amid ongoing discussions around housing affordability in Australia’s most expensive state.

In Sydney the 12-month median for houses is a whopping $890,000 according to CoreLogic data while the median for units is $670,000. Based on those medians, the average stamp

duty bill in Sydney would be $35,540 for houses and $25,640 for units.

Nerida Conisbee, chief economist at REA Group said, in theory fewer foreign buyers would lead to a drop in prices. “Offshore buyers are restricted to new developments. Many new apartment buildings in particular would not have had enough buyers to begin construction without offshore buyers. They have therefore been critical in getting new supply into the market,” she said.

“This strong level of supply, coupled with economic growth, are the best conditions for first home buyers.

NSW, which has been chronically under supplied for housing for over a decade, is still seeing the ramifications on housing affordability because of this,” she said.

Foreign investment in northwest Sydney has been vital over the past 12-24 months. Ken Chua runs our Asia Desk from our Marsden Park office. His multilingual skills are an essential requirement for Real Estate offices in 2016 as buyers with limited English ability but plenty of money are purchasing houses, apartments and development sites. “Foreign buyers are very cautious and need a lot of guidance and reassurance when purchasing. The smallest thing spooks them and I am worried this additional tax will simply mean reduced offers”, said Mr Chua. “It will have an effect on the local market.”

For experienced and knowledgeable advice on the property market, call the Bennett Team on 9835 3355.

FIXED VERSUS VARIABLE RATES Your Guide to Getting a Better Deal WITH the recent Reserve Bank news of keeping the cash rate at a record low of 1.75%, homeowners are left wondering if now is the time to make the switch from a variable rate to a fixed rate. In today’s volatile financial landscape, some consumers are looking for stability, which is why homeowners might consider making the move to a fixed rate.

What many people probably don’t realise is that the Australian markets are now pricing in future variable rate cuts in the next 12 months, an expectation that many finance experts also forecast.

While that rate has not moved, there is a lot of confusion out there.

But it’s certainly not all bad news and there are some real positives for home owners. Consumers have more cash in their pockets as there was a

reduced cost of living and mortgage holders actually had benefit from the low rates.

One thing we want to make clear is that now is a good time to be informed as this financial environment is creating a bit of competition, which means lower rates and better deals for home owners.

Some banks dropping their fixed rates may seem enticing, and in such a confusing landscape some people might appreciate the stability that a low fixed rate can provide. However, if predictions are correct and variable rates drop over the next year, the fixed rate may not give you the best deal out there.

What consumers need more than anything is good advice and information to make a well informed decision. Each scenario is different

and what works for one person won’t necessarily work for his or her neighbour. Here are some tips to consider: • Take a look at your current rate versus today’s advertised rates. Is your rate still in line with what’s in the market? If your rate is higher, now is a good time to look speak with a finance expert.

• Talk to a mortgage broker or advisor to see what options you have.

With steady rate movements, there is no better time to review your home loan rate.

• Fixed rates may appear attractive now, however, if rates continue to fall beyond what is currently being priced in, your rate may not appear as competitive three, six or 12 months down the track. Typically if you discover you are paying more at this

stage, there will be break costs to consider when trying to get out of a fixed rate early.

• Fixed rate loans typically offer lower flexibility with regards to additional repayments, offset and redraw. If you want to maintain your flexibility, don’t fix your whole loan.

You can split your loan and lock part in a low fixed and play it safe with part variable rate and if there is another drop in variable rates you have not locked in the whole amount.

You should seek some advice before making a move.

Wealthwiz is dedicated to finding you the best rate for your home loan.

If you’d like to review your home loan situation feel free to give us a call to see how we can help you save and beat the banks.

Call Alex on 0419 600 177 today.

WealthWiz Wealth Management Suite 3, 47-51 Richmond Rd, Blacktown Call 8004 6655 | www.wealthwiz.com.au

23 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

realestate real

RICHMOND

3

BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED HOME CASTLEREAGH

• Delightful, single level brick-veneer/tile family home • New kitchen with Caesarstone tops, stainless steel appliances • Open plan living with air conditioning, timber blinds • 3 bedrooms with built-in robes, new carpets • Updated bathroom and fitted laundry • Covered alfresco entertaining overlooking pool • Colorbond shed with electricity, new driveway

1

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$000,000

EBENEZER

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STYLISH FAMILY LIVING CASTLEREAGH

Saturday 18 & 25 June, 11:00 – 11:30am

Inspect:

Saturday 18 & 25 June, 11:00 – 11:30am

Address:

6 Cornwell Avenue

Address:

7 Sirius Crescent

Land Size: Approx 607 square metres

Land Size: Approx 696 square metre

Price:

Just Listed

Price:

Just Listed

Details:

Rhonda Schellnack - 4578 1234

Details:

Scott Lee - 4578 1234

KURRAJONG HEIGHTS

3

1

1

KURMOND

4

58 ACRES, LONG ROAD FRONTAGE $000,000 CASTLEREAGH

QUALITY HOME PLUS STUDIO CASTLEREAGH

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Inspect:

Saturday 18 & 25 June, 1:00 – 1:30pm

Land Size: Approx 58 acres (23.5 hectares)

Address:

9 Inverary Drive

Price:

Offers

Land Size: Approx 2.2 acres (9200 sq metres)

Details:

Michael Bennett - 4578 1234

Price:

Just Listed

Details:

Karen Rigg - 4573 1228

• Farmhouse in original condition • 58 acres (approx) of mostly arable land • Established orchard with 2000 fruit trees • Five dams connected to irrigation • Two large farm sheds (approx 20m x9m), one with 3-phase power • Rural location near Bilpin fruit-growing region

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2

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KURRAJONG (02) 4573 1228 80 Old Bells Line of Road RICHMOND (02) 4578 1234 239 Windsor Street MARSDEN PARK (02) 9835 3355 Cnr Richmond Road & South Street www.bennettproperty.com.au

MARSDEN PARK

3

1

1

LONDONDERRY

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PRIME DEVELOPMENT OR INVESTMENT CASTLEREAGH $000,000

FIVE FLOOD FREE ACRES CASTLEREAGH

Inspect:

Inspect:

Saturday 18 & 25 June, 1:00 – 1:30pm

Land Size: Approx 5 acres (2.02 hectares)

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151 Whitegates Road

Price:

Expressions Of Interest

Land Size: Approx 2.02 acres (4.99 acres)

Details:

Matthew Bennett - 9835 3355

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Michael Bennett - 4578 1234

• Large level site in Marsden Park North Precinct • Rezoning expected within 12 months • Very close to existing school and commercial area • Established business able to provide ongoing rental return • Longer settlements available • Approximately 5 acres with long road frontage

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OBERON “HARRIS FARM” CASTLEREAGH

4

2

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Inspect:

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2

2

$000,000

• 4-bedroom brick home with double carport • 5 level flood-free acres. Town water • New kitchen with s/s appliances, dishwasher • Air conditioning, ceiling fans and fireplaces • Parquetry floors, timber details and new downlights • Landscaped gardens, lawns, kennels and dam • 3-car garage,10-bay half-open barn, 3-phase power

MARSDEN PARK

1

4

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SOPHISTICATED HOME CASTLEREAGH AND MODERN FAMILY $000,000 • Spacious, near-new four-bedroom ‘Azalea’ brick home • Open-plan layout with separate living/dining & media room • Carpeted bedrooms with built-ins, master with ensuite and WIR • Modern kitchen with gas, s/s appliances, stone benchtops • Main bathroom with bath, large internal laundry • Remote double lock up garage with internal access • Security alarm, ducted air con

Inspect:

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10 Everingham Street

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Land Size: Approx 391 square metres

Details:

Maurice Mantovani - 4573 1228

Price:

Just Listed

Details:

Michael Bennett - 9835 3355

KURRAJONG (02) 4573 1228 80 Old Bells Line of Road RICHMOND (02) 4578 1234 239 Windsor Street MARSDEN PARK (02) 9835 3355 Cnr Richmond Road & South Street www.bennettproperty.com.au

Youth Girls AFL Competition success

By Jarrod McGrouther

THE inaugural launch of the Western Sydney Youth Girls AFL Competition hosted last month was an incredible success. It gave over 150 girls the chance to come together and participate in the opening round of the competition, demonstrating the large amount of interest there is for girls AFL at grassroots level in Greater Western Sydney.

The day showcased the strength and inclusiveness of AFL in the female space, providing an avenue for girls currently playing AFL and those previously unexposed to the sport to compete in a harmonious and safe environment.

The launch began with an opening ceremony, with honorary guests Mr Stephen Bali, Mayor of Blacktown City, and Jeremy Cameron from the GWS GIANTS presenting the first ever Youth Girl teams with their welcome packs.

With Blacktown International Sportspark home to Western Sydney’s GWS Talent Academy, the day also allowed coaches from the Academy to offer tours of the facilities and provide professional advice to the girls and parents around their development.

With the successful launch of the Western Sydney Youth Girls Competition, the aim now is to continue to provide future opportunities for girls currently playing, and to continue to expose newcomers to the sport.

AFL NSW/ACT GWS Regional

BARRIER RISE with Tony Brassel Tony Brassel is one of the most respected judges of horseflesh in the country. He is a form expert and racing analyst with SKY Racing and radio 2KY and has now joined the Western Sydney News Group stable of journalists

Manager, Dean Connors, is proud of the success already achieved by the AFL and is excited by the female game moving forward, “We have been overwhelmed by the interest of females selecting AFL as their sport of choice. The Youth Girls brand new competition highlights the popularity of AFL by reaching 12 club teams in its inaugural year. This is a great foundation for our National Female Competition that commences in 2017, and will hopefully be seen as a pathway for our current female participants.”

If you would like more information on the Youth Girls Completion please send your enquiry through to Adriana.Harpas@ afl.com.au .

In other exciting news, an annoucment Wednesday confirmed that GWS will field a female team in the inaugural AFL Women’s competition, starting next year. 8 teams, including 4 from Melbourne, will compete for the title in a huge coup for the women’s game.

DIAMOND FEVER: Went like the wind to take a Rosehill heat last week. Bjorn Baker trains and she’s a daughter of the the former outstanding mare, Dane Ripper. Ready to fire fresh on her dominant win.

LAUCALA: Could be good for a win or two this prep. The Chris Waller filly was never asked for top speed when third in her heat at Rosehill. That was the first trial this preparation so expect another one before resuming.

NEMRUD: Has yet to step out but keep following him this prep. By Reset and from the Godolphin operation, he found the line strongly when third in a trial after travelling midfield most of the way.

NICCOLANCE: Remains one of the best maidens in training after three starts. That should soon change after Team Snowden’s colt motored home for second to tidy Morton’s Fork in a Randwick heat.

REGENESIS: Looked a bit of alright finishing a cruisy third at the Randwick trial session last week. This John O’Shea-trained gelding is a son of Street Cry was placed in one of his two runs last time in.

Expect improvement.

SAMANTHA: Is yet another unraced Snitzel set to fire for Gerald Ryan. She chased bravely for second behind the huge youngster Viatrix and gained ever so slight near the line.

VIATRIX: Stood head and shoulders over her rivals when skating home to a Rosehill barrier trial success. From the Hawkes operation, the juvenile is typical of the Artie Schiller breed – most are leviathans!

ZOEASY: Appeared for the first time when second in a Rosehill trial behind Lusitania. The daughter of Zoffany showed natural dash and certainly wasn’t pressured near the post, suggesting she went better than the winner.

27 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

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Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

The Eels get a much-needed boost before tonight’s clash

By Jarrod McGrouther

A WEEK away from the spotlight and bright lights of Sydney was exactly what the Parramatta Eels needed to get their 2016 season back on track.

Last weekend, the side travelled in bulk to Darwin for a game against the Gold Coast, relishing the opportunity to spend a week away in camp, giving them time to bond and refresh.

The game was a torrid affair, played in extreme conditions for this time of year. The report was temperatures over 30 degrees at kick off, which was surprising as kick off was 5:30 in the afternoon. Despite the challenges both sides faced, the Eels out willed the Titans to keep their diminishing finals hopes alive.

In positive signs for Eels fans moving forward, young talents Daniel Alvaro (12 hit ups and 26 tackles in 40 minutes) and Manu Ma’u (16 hit ups for 146 metres and 26 tackles) continue to impress, along with Corey Norman scoring man of the match honours from most experts for his general control and kicking game.

It appears the off field dramas surrounding the youngster are in the back of his mind, and with Kieran Foran out for the year, the play making responsibilities are falling on

his shoulders. Despite this, he appears to be handling the extra duties with class beyond his years. Too bad he’s not from New South Wales.

An exciting match up now awaits the Eels on Friday night, with the side travelling a short distance down the M4 to ANZ Stadium to tackle the struggling Souths Sydney Rabbitohs.

With talk still spiralling around the club in relation to players being let go, injuries to key members and off-field

scandals, a short turn around gives the players a chance to do what they do best, play some footy.

Michael Jennings being replaced by Vai Toutai (origin) is the only change named, giving the Eels a consistent team heading into an important game.

With both sides familiar with the venue, Souths have a slight 12 percent advantage in win record at ANZ Stadium. Alternatively, Souths have been hit hard by Origin week, with

both halves in Adam Reynolds and Greg Inglis missing from the side. The inexperienced halves pairing of Luke Keary and Cody Walker should take time to gel, providing the Eels will a real chance to knock the Bunnies off tonight.

With the season still far from over, Friday night footy will be a huge stage for the Eels to perform on. Lets hope they continue their winning ways in impressive and determined fashion.

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Storm consolidate position in top six

By Noel Rowsell

THE Blacktown Storm Division One Youth League Men’s team has moved back into the Top Six, in the 2016 Waratah Youth League competition, following a confidence-boosting 6958 win over second-placed Manly Warringah Sea Eagles.

The Storm had been in high-scoring form in their previous two games but wins had been elusive, with two losses dropping them out of the Top Six. The key to the Storm’s win was a stronger defensive mindset, with the home team keeping the Sea Eagles to their lowest score of the season.

Australian representative Makuach Maluach has scored 114 points for the Storm over the past three games but surprisingly, it was his lowest score of that period which guided the Storm to their important win.

Maluach hit 25 points against the Sea Eagles, ahead of the returning

ROUND UND SOU

15&16

Makuach Maluach has been in top scoring form with the Storm in the past three rounds.

Photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Diing Mawein 17, Simeon Murray 13 and Junior Madut 10.

The Storm will however need to again be at peak form this weekend, when they host third-placed Sydney City Comets at 5.30pm at the Kevin Betts Stadium Mt Druitt.

There has been even more good news for the Blacktown West Basketball Association during the past week, with Makuach and his younger brother Matur both chosen in the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) team, which competed at the NSW All-Schools Championships in Terrigal on June 6.

CIS won both games on the day, defeating Combined High Schools (CHS) 91-81 and Combined Catholic Colleges (CCC) 82-47.

Older brother Makuach was subsequently chosen in the NSW Combined All-Schools team, which will contest the Schools Sport Australia (SSA) Championships on August 6-13 in Terrigal.

29 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

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139 Matthew Bennett - Bennett Property

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129 Troy - Urban City Consulting

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131 Barry Locock - Turtle Landscape Supplies

137

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MY WORDS WITH MARK GEYER

PLEASE HELP OUT SOME PEOPLE DOING IT REALLY TOUGH

BEHIND 24-4 at Brookvale Oval last Sunday, the Penrith Panthers were looking down the barrel of the real possibility of missing out on being one of this years top 8 teams. In what was a 50 minutes to forget, Anthony Griffin’s men awoke from their slumber to ram home 27 unanswered points in an act of defiance to the growing number of naysayers.

Again Trent Merrin was good, as were rookies Nathan Cleary and Leilani Latu who both look to have long, illustrious careers ahead of them. Bryce Cartwright made a good fist of 5/8th but in the back row is where he is most potent.

With a bye next on the Panther’s schedule, last Sunday’s game was indeed a 4 point victory. A loss against Manly - which at half time looked Inevitable would have had the Mountain Men anchored at the bottom end of the table with the teams who are desperate for a wet sale run home.

I’ve gotta give a special mention to Peter Wallace.

He has been a revelation at hooker this year and deserved the extension to his contract he got earlier this year. There were rumblings preseason that the Blaxland veteran would see limited time in first grade this year given his relationship with incumbent coach Griffin. The same coach he left Brisbane for as their relationship had deteriorated. Well kudos to both men for handling what could have been a messy affair so professionally. The Panthers are a genuine top 8 footy team, they just have to show it consistently. Losses to the Titans and Dragons this year may come back to haunt them but at least now they are in charge of their own destiny. A good position to be in.

And another thing...

The recent Storms hit parts of Sydney real hard. Coogee, Colloroy, Camden and Wallacia all reeling from mother natures fury. But the town that copped the most was Picton. Over 6 feet of rain hit the western Sydney suburb and over a period of 3 hours saw the entire town drowned in water.

Last Wednesday I took one of my producers from the Grill team down

24 HOURS

there to check it out ourselves and then I did my part of the show from there on the Thursday morning. Driving in on Wednesday night 24 hours after the waters from the storm had subsided, the very first thing you noticed was the overwhelming smell of mud. That and the sad faces on all the shop owners who had lost everything.

I met one young bloke called Shane. Shane is a teacher at the local high school. Shane is 26 and he and his girlfriend share a house in Picton. The storm totally destroyed it. It wasn’t insured.

Shane had planned on insuring his home once the up-coming school holidays had come and gone and he would have picked up some extra money labouring.

He was too late. Shane is just one of the many stories coming out of Picton. I don’t ever use this column to ask for help but I’m asking now.

The people of Picton need us. If you can spare anything, clothing, furniture, gold coins, money or just moral support it would be greatly appreciated.

There is a fund set up that I will give the details for at the end of this piece.

It’s not nice seeing fellow Aussies battling for whatever reason, but when a storm comes and basically decimates your lovely sleepy town it hurts even more.

Once the people of Picton have got themselves back on their feet please visit their town. They could really use some tourism dollars as well as a warm smiley face. Thank you.

There is two ways you can help: All monies will assist homeowners and business owners who have lost everything.

Woolondilly Shire Council Mayors relief fund. Bank account NAB BSB 082-883 Account 359330786 or Jai Rowells Storm Relief Fund Bank Account (BSB 633-000) account number 157665639 Bendigo Bank.

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0415 982 093

Western Sydney handed a unique opportunity

By Jarrod McGrouther

WITH constant talk of whether Melbourne or Sydney is the sporting capital of Australia, western Sydney has been handed a unique opportunity in June to sample sports not usually spoken about by mainstream media.

The Volleyroos Men’s Volleyball side, and the USA and Canadian Ice Hockey outfits are competing in Homebush on succeeding weekends in June, and are events not to be missed.

The Volleyroos will compete against stiff competition this weekend, with games on from Friday through Sunday. Some sensational Volleyball will be played against the likes of France, Italy and Belgium, all top ranked sides in the sport. With the Volleyroos failing to qualify through their tough group for the Rio Olympic games, they’re ready to show what they’re made of.

Ben Hardy, assistant coach of the Volleyroos Men’s side said the team is looking forward to playing against stiff opposition in front of a loud home crowd, “Two of the teams in France and Italy have already qualified for the Olympics, so expect Olympic level competition. Belgium as a team are highly regarded as well. The

opportunity to play in front of a home crowd is fantastic, most of the guys live and play overseas so they’re excited to show what they’re capable of on home soil.”

Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre is the host venue and is looking like having large crowds on hand all weekend long. For tickets visit volleyroos.com.au Next weekend, overseas Ice Hockey action hits Sydney, with the Wayne Gretzky Ice Hockey Classic Exhibition Series between the USA and Canada returning to Australian shores. After a successful 2015 event, Ice Hockey great Wayne Gretzky is endorsing this year’s series and will even be in attendance for the Sydney clash.

NHL All-Star MVP John Scott will captain Team USA and is one of the big names due to be on display. He spoke of his excitement to bring the game he loves to Australia, “Any time the USA and Canada face off it’s a massive event and I can’t wait to come down under for the first time and play in front of Australian ice hockey fans.”

USA and Canada will again reignite one of world sport’s most famous rivalries, with the event raising awareness and funds for the ‘STOPCONCUSSIONS’ Foundation.

Qudos Bank Arena is the venue for the much-anticipated affair. Tickets are still available from ticketek.

With the likes of the GWS Giants and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

making waves in their respective competitions, western Sydney sport is in full flight. Make sure to catch all the action of the less talked about sports this coming fortnight.

Young Wanderers fall to Mt Druitt

By Christian Layland

DESPITE a valiant showing, squad changes and four debuts was too much for the Western Sydney Wanderers to overcome as they lost 4-3 to Mt Druitt in an entertaining PS4 NPL2 match.

A hat-trick to Wanderers striker Kyle Cimenti and debuts to 17-year old Tate Russell, 17-year-old Tacettin Kumsuz, 15-year-old Moudi Najjar and former NYL player Lawrence Hanna were highlights in what was a brave loss for the Wanderers.

With a number of players released from their Hyundai A-League contracts and four players rested for the rest of the season, it was an almost unrecognisable line-up that took to Blacktown Football Park compared to the team that defeated Sydney FC in the Red & Black’s previous match.

Not that you were able to tell early on in the match as the young Wanderers’ team dictated play early against the Rangers with early chances to Tariq Maia and Abdelrahman Kuku but a wonder goal from the away team gave them a 1-0 lead.

The score line was soon doubled as a Mt Druitt attacker burst down the right to set-up his teammate to make it 2-0.

Only minutes later the Rangers scored their third goal in 14 minutes against a shell-shocked Wanderers

Lawrence Hanna returned to Wanderers after two years overseas

as the referee awarded Mt Druitt a contentious penalty when their player tripped over his own feet and went to ground.

It was a lesson for the young Wanderers with a very clinical Mt Druitt punishing every mistake that the Red & Black made but they got one back just before half time as Cimenti scored with a great finish.

The second half was a much more assured performance by the Wanderers

and while they created chances early they couldn’t convert until awarded a penalty in the 74th minute.

Lachlan Roberts was taken down in the box after a needless challenge from a Mt Druitt defender with Cimenti converting the spot kick for his second goal of match.

From there it looked only a matter of time before the Wanderers equalised as Jordan Morfitis hit the post and a few other chances narrowly missed

but the Red & Black were hit with a sucker-punch only minutes from time.

Mt Druitt counter-attacked well to take the score to 4-2 and while Cimenti scored his hat-trick to bring the deficit back to one goal immediately after, Cameron Devlin couldn’t finish the final chance of the match and Mt Druitt ran out 4-3 winners.

Up next for the Western Sydney Wanderers is a trip to Christie Park on Tuesday night for a catch-up game against Spirit FC before taking on Northern Tigers at Valentine Sports Park on Saturday.

Western Sydney Wanderers 3 (Kyle Cimenti 40’ 74’ 88’) Mt Druitt Town Rangers 4 Western Sydney Wanderers: Matthew Symes, Lachlan Roberts, Abdelrahman Kuku, Keanu Baccus, Tate Russell (Moudi Najjar), Cameron Devlin, Charles Abou (Jordan Morfitis), Tariq Maia, Ramy Najjarine, Lawrence Hanna (Tacettin Kumsuz), Kyle Cimenti Unused subs: Daniel Axford, Lachlan Campbell Other results 20s: WSW 1-0 Mt Druitt 18s: WSW 2-4 Mt Druitt 16s: WSW 0-1 Blacktown City 15s: WSW 0-2 Blacktown City 14s: WSW 3-2 Blacktown City 13s: WSW 1-3 Blacktown City

31 Western News 17 June 2016 Issue 12

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Western NEWS

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Friday, 17 June 2016

HARPO’S MARKS

JJUST when you think Anthony “The th Mouth” couldn’t utter M th” Mundine M anything more outrageous than his “Sonny Bill (Williams) can be as good a fighter as Muhammad Ali” statement a few years back, he’s back bigger and more mindless than ever.

There’s of course his stated desire to return to the National Rugby League at the ripe old age of 41.

Utterly ridiculous of course but that bit of news pales into insignificance alongside his musings issued on social media the day The Greatest, Muhammad Ali, passed away.

The dumb-cluck related how, on meeting Ali a few years back, the legend told him “I was the greatest until you came along”.

Fair dinkum, I nearly crashed the car when I heard that on the radio.

Laugh, I haven’t laughed as much since The Mouth’s misguided statement about SBW’s boxing prowess!

Yeah, sure Muhammad, who for

many years now has had trouble understanding let along speaking, had that discourse with The Mouth!

Next we’ll be hearing that Ali told Eddie the Eagle he was unsurpassed as a ski jumper and Eric Moussambani was a better swimmer than Mark Spitz!

Lemme just run through a list of Australian boxers who fought against and beat much stronger opponents than Mundine ever met.

Let’s see.. ..Young Griffo, Les Darcy, Dave Sands, George Barnes, Vic Patrick, Tommy Burns, Jack Hassen, Elley Bennett, Ron Richards, Jimmy Carruthers, Tony Mundine, Johnny Famechon, Lionel Rose, Lester Ellis, Barry Michael, Jeff Fenech, Jeff Harding.. .. ..

And what about all the other sensational International boxers across the full spectrum of the weight divisions!

Crikey, just in the middleweight class alone Mundine wouldn’t have stood a chance against the likes of

Stanley Ketchel, Harry Greb (my all-time favourite boxer), Jake La Motta, Sugar Ray Robinson, Gene Fulmer, Dick Tiger, Emile Griffith, Carlos Monzon, Sugar Ray Leonards, Marvin Hagler.. .. ..

Gimme a break!

Harry Greb, I hear you ask.

Harry had 298 bouts as a welterweight, middleweight, light heavyweight and heavyweight, winning 261 of his 298 stoushes.

And stoushes they were because Harry wasn’t known as the Pittsburgh Windmill for nothin’.

He raced out of his corner at every bell and kept throwing punches until his opponent was counted out or the bell sounded to end the final round.

Harry was the world middleweight champion from 1923-26 and fought many of the greatest fighters the world has seen including Johnny Wilson, Tommy Loughran, Jeff Smith and Tiger Flowers.

He was the only man to inflict defeat on the great Gene Tunney

when they met for the American light heavyweight title on May 23, 1922.

Greb was named the 7th greatest fighter of the first 80 years of the 20th Century by Ring Magazine, the 5th greatest fighter of all-time by historian Bert Sugar and ranked as the No 1 middleweight and the No 2 pound-for-pound fighter of all-time by the International Boxing Research Organization.

The outstanding statistical boxing website BoxRec lists Greb as the No 3 ranked middleweight of all-time and the 8th greatest pound-for-pound fighter ever.

Oh yes! And Harry didn’t mind a little bit of the e....um.. ..hanky-panky just prior to getting into the ring.

That’s what you call a pre-fight warm-up!

SADDEST OF MARKS: The passing of Ali – great boxer and an inspiration, not only to his race but all of us.

LOWEST OF MARKS: The Mouth. Antithesis of The Greatest.

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