Western News 19 February 2021

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Friday, 19 February 2021

ISSUE 129

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Happy Lunar New Year

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

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Applications open for 2021 Blacktown City Council Tertiary Scholarship Program

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pplications are now open for the 2021 Blacktown City Council Tertiary Scholarship Program.

The annual program offers scholarships of $1,500 to 12 students who have completed at least one year of a current enrolment at a recognised tertiary institution.

Those wishing to apply must be residents of Blacktown City, must provide a copy of their academic records relating to their current studies, must have completed the full year of study in 2020, and must be continuing their studies in 2021.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, encouraged students living locally to apply for the prestigious initiative.

“Blacktown City is a wonderful area where diversity and talent are celebrated, and where our local students are given every opportunity to succeed in their chosen field,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“As a Council, we choose to invest in the future of our young people, and all those wishing to advance their education.

“I’m very excited that later this month the ACU Blacktown campus, established through a partnership between Blacktown City Council and ACU, will welcome its first intake of students.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, with the recipient of the 2020 Anne Aquilina Scholarship, Atharva

“I am sure that the recipients of the 2021 Tertiary Scholarship Program will use their knowledge to support, enhance and champion the community of Blacktown City.”

The Anne Aquilina Scholarship is part of the Scholarship program and specifically assists students of physiotherapy, sports medicine or

health sciences.

The scholarship is named in honour of Anne Aquilina, the popular Blacktown physiotherapist and academic and the late wife of the first Mayor of Blacktown City, the Hon John Aquilina.

Applications for the 2021 Blacktown City Council Tertiary

Scholarship Program close on Monday, 3 May, 2021.

For further details and to apply for the program please visit: www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Community/ Aw a r d s - s c h o l a r s h i p s - a n d competitions/Tertiary-Scholarships.

Previous recipients of this scholarship are not eligible to apply.

Westmead nurse swims in memory of patient to raise money for cancer

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ust a few days before Christmas, Westmead Hospital’s neuro-trauma close observation unit lost one of their most-loved patients: Robert Prasad.

Robert spent eight months in Westmead Hospital before succumbing to a brain tumour. His wife Steph was by his side every day and became a close friend to all staff in the unit.

Clinical nurse specialist Annie Black said that Robert’s passing took its toll on every staff member in the ward.

“We got to know Robert’s entire family while he was our patient. And

at increasing the five-year survival rate from 20% to 50% by 2023.

“Within the first 24 hours after creating our fundraiser we received substantial donations from Robert’s family and friends. It was overwhelming to see such support,” Annie said.

Annie took part in a two-kilometre race from Shelly Beach to Manly on February 7, 2021. If you wish to support her fundraiser, reach out on Annie.Black@health.nsw.gov. au or in C3C Neuro-Trauma Close Observation Unit at Westmead Hospital.

Clinical nurse specialist Annie Black and her swimming trophies from previous years

High school sweethearts Robert and Stephanie on their wedding day

when you care for someone 24/7 for such a long time, you develop a connection with them and with their family,” Annie said.

After Robert passed away, his wife Steph asked family and friends to donate to the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation in lieu of sending flowers.

It coincided with the time when Annie was registering for the Cole Classic, an ocean swim in Manly which has been her annual tradition for six years.

“This year, I decided to swim in Rob’s memory and support Steph’s idea to raise money for the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation,” Annie said.

“I always try to raise money for a worthy cause when I participate in this ocean race. This year’s fundraiser is particularly special for me because of Rob, of course, but also because all the staff in our unit works with people suffering from brain cancer and it is an extremely daunting disease.

“With brain cancer, people may lose their personalities, their speech and sometimes the ability to move and interact. It can also progress very quickly. It is very distressing for patients and their families.”

Cure Brain Cancer Foundation is conducting innovative research aimed

Annie just after finishing the Cole Classic swim in Manly in one of the previous years. She usually swims the 1 km race and then joins the 2 km race, which she hopes to win one day.

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he beat of drums and clash of cymbals greeted lunchtime visitors to the Village Green in the Blacktown city centre last Friday.

Chinese Lion dancers raged through the park and around the nearby streets to mark the start of Lunar New Year celebrations throughout Blacktown City.

Starting with the lion dancers in the city centre, Blacktown City Council is celebrating the Lunar New Year of the Ox year in a COVID-safe, decentralised way.

In past years, spectacular celebrations have been held at the Chang Lai Garden at Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside. This year, residents can ring in the Year of the Ox simultaneously at Blacktown City Council’s five leisure and aquatic centres.

Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope, Riverstone Swimming Centre, Blacktown Aquatic Centre, Mount Druitt Swimming Centre, and the Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton will each host Lunar New Year celebrations on Sunday, 28 February.

Decked in the spirit of Lunar New Year, the centres will host activities between 1pm and 4pm including lion dancing, live cultural performances, free craft workshops, food stalls, and roving performers.

Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said he was excited for all that the Year of the Ox would bring.

“Council will ensure we welcome the Year of the Ox in a way which is fun, family-friendly, and COVID-safe for everyone.”

Residents wishing to attend the celebrations will have to register ahead as there will be a limit of 500 people at each venue. Entry is covered by the normal centre entrance fee or membership.

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

Lions ring in the Lunar New Year of the Ox

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Lion Dancers celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Ox in the Blacktown Village Green

Event details – Blacktown City Lunar New Year celebrations, Year of the Ox When: Sunday, 28 February, 2021, 1pm to 4pm Where: Council’s five aquatic centres • Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope, Stanhope Parkway and Sentry Drive, Stanhope Gardens - 9421 2600 • Riverstone Swimming Centre, corner Market and Piccadilly streets, Riverstone - 9627 1496 • Blacktown Aquatic Centre, 4 Boyd Street,

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

Blacktown - 8869 9000 • Mount Druitt Swimming Centre, Ayres Grove, Mount Druitt - 9625 6360 • Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton, 35 Jersey Road, Emerton - 8822 6000 Cost: covered by centre entrance fee or membership. Bookings are essential and open Saturday, 21 February. Details: www.blacktown.nsw. gov.au/Events-and-activities/2021-Lunar-New-YearCelebrations.

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

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Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

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Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sports Journalist: Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

H

aving a closed international border does have an upside.

Those like me, who were constantly dreaming about their next overseas destination and saving any spare dollar towards getting over there, are looking at tourism in NSW and broader Australia like never before.

It has created a much-needed local travel boom - as our state and nation could certainly do with the extra dollars spent locally.

And what an incredibly beautiful country we have! I’m currently writing this from one of the most stunning places I have ever laid my eyes on. The Bay of Fires in Tasmania boasts one of the most pristine coastlines you’d ever see.

And during my days of overseas destination dreaming, this lovely spot would have been swept up and overlooked due to the more marketed places like the Maldives and Bora Bora.

But it is a place so exquisite it takes your breath away.

On the weekend we were at Port Arthur. We did some day trips, and as we climbed on to a boat, that was essentially a speed raft, anxiety began to creep in. My head was filled with fears about being on a raft in the wild open sea, and about venturing to places where there’d be nobody around to help if we capsized and many other scary things. I am so glad that the battle ended quickly with Kerrie 1-Anxiety 0 because it was one of the best things I have done in my life.

Zipping down to the wilderness and our most southern remote areas, switching the motors off to glide through jaw-dropping caves and then viewing Australian fur seals sunning themselves, I was overcome with the realisation of how incredibly blessed we are to call this great nation home.

Of all places in the world we could be living, we are Australian! And, after visiting the penal colonies, of all the generations we could have been born in to, we got this one! The stars really lined up for us and we should treasure every moment we have.

Oh and spend our money locally, in NSW and in Australia!

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Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

Top baby names of 2020 revealed

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hether you opt for a classic or embrace something modern, naming a baby is one of the most important decisions new parents make.

New data from the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages has revealed that parents favoured more classic names in 2020.

Oliver is still the leading name for boys, followed by Noah and William.

The trio’s top-three status has remained unchanged for the past five years in NSW. Amelia took out the girls’ top spot ahead of Olivia, while Charlotte was bumped down to third place after being most favoured for the past three years running.

Kenthurst couple Angela and Roberto were among the parents-tobe trying to decide which name would best suit their baby boy.

“We had no idea that Oliver was going to be the most popular boys name of 2020 but it was definitely high on our list,” new mother Angela said.

“We wanted more of an Italian influence to bring in Roberto’s culture, so we decided ‘Leo Charlie Gennari’ was the name for us.

“Charlie was my father’s name and

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Kenthurst couple Angela and Roberto welcomed their healthy baby boy into the world early on January 27

we wanted to keep it in the family.

“Leo’s name is a perfect mix of both our families and cultures.”

Baby Leo was born at Westmead Hospital in the early hours of Wednesday, January 27. Both he and Angela are doing well.

Although not quite the most common name on the list, Leo was the fourth most popular boys’ name of 2020, and also the fastest mover in the top 10 for boys over the past decade– jumping 61 spots up the rankings.

“Choosing a name is hard but we definitely made the right decision,” Roberto said.

Did your baby’s name make the list? Check out the top 10 boys and girls name at www.nsw.gov.au/topics/ births/popular-baby-names

Michael Vassili

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Critical time for arrival of junior doctors in Western Sydney

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estern Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) recently welcomed 151 junior medical officers (JMOs) who have started working at four of its hospitals across the region: Westmead, Blacktown, Mount Druitt and Auburn hospitals.

The JMOs join over 1,000 interns across the NSW Health system – more than any state or territory in Australia.

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to become independent practitioners.

The new doctors receive twoyear contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience. They also join different units in each hospital, including surgery and emergency medicine.

“Day one for a new intern is very special – but particularly more so this year with our JMOs joining our service during a global pandemic,” WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy said.

“Westmead Hospital is the home of Australia’s first-ever COVID-19 patient. Ever since, our district’s ability to respond to the virus on all levels has been nothing short of outstanding.

“Our staff are working in state-ofthe-art redevelopments at Blacktown, Mount Druitt and Westmead hospitals, which means our JMOs will be learning inside the hospitals of the future.”

Kristen Piper, from Concord, has this week started her two-year internship at Westmead Hospital.

“I really like the cultural diversity

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals junior medical officers.

Westmead Hospital medical intern Dr Kristen Piper.

and variety of people in Western Sydney,” Kristen said.

“I have a big interest in haematology because the same condition can be completely different in two people.

“This is what I‘d love to do long term and was the reason I decided to study medicine after graduating as a physiotherapist.”

Melissa Elias from Wentworthville knew she wanted to be a paediatrician or general practitioner since she was a child.

“My sister suffers from a rare genetic disease and has an intellectual disability, and my younger sister recently passed away from cancer,” Melissa said.

“After seeing what they both went through, I knew this was the path I wanted to take.”

WSLHD’s acting director of medical services Peter Hockey said that adjustments have been made to WSLHD’s orientation program to ensure it is COVID-safe.

“For the second year in a row, all JMOs will receive their very own lap top,” Dr Hockey said.

“This is not only a perk of an internship at WSLHD, it also ensures our doctors are not sharing devices, creating an additional shield against COVID-19.

“Welcome to all of our new JMOs, we look forward to showing you everything you need to know about our health system.”

For more information about the recruitment of Junior Medical Officers, visit the dedicated page on the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/jmo/Pages/ default.aspx

Human resources by day, crime fighter by night

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rom Cumberland Hospital to NSW Police, Hany Mena just loves helping people.

When the 41-year-old father of two is not working for the People and Culture team at Western Sydney Local Health District, he’s helping organise community event as the vice president of the Australian Egyptian Forum Council.

A former solicitor, he also voluntarily shares his expertise with the Australian Arabic-speaking community via SBS Radio.

To top it all off, he’s just been appointed to the NSW Police Commissioner’s Multicultural Advisory Council, acting as a liaison between police and the multicultural public of western Sydney, especially the Arabic-speaking community.

“I was recommended by a police liaison officer to Parramatta Police and when I heard there was an opportunity to assist with crime prevention, I was very interested,” Hany said.

“I was a solicitor in Egypt with a specialty in crime, so I love to help

people understand how the law works.

I am so proud and over the moon to be on the committee.”

Hany immigrated to Australia in September 2008 with his mother and brother, and immediately dedicated his time to learning English and understanding his new country.

Since then he has married, started a family and settled down in Edmondson Park, but it was Hany’s introduction to Australia that continues to inspire his admirable work rate.

“When I came here it was a new culture, new language, everything was new but I found Australia to be a very welcoming and kind country. It touched my heart. That’s why I want to do something for this great country and my dream came true,” Hany said.

“I’m organising my time to contribute to the community and give back.”

Hany started working in the admissions and bookings team at Auburn Hospital in 2011. During that time he studied human resources (HR), and in 2019 he started a new

WSLHD human resources operational officer Hany Mena.

district role as a HR operational officer with the People and Culture team based at Cumberland Hospital.

He said the best part of both roles is helping people.

“I love working with people, and I am happy when I make people happy,” Hany said.

“I enjoyed working face to face with patients in Auburn. This role is totally different, we’re away from the public eye, but I really enjoy the support of the team. We deal with a large number of staff and it always makes me happy when I can solve someone’s problem.”

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he Westmead Centre for Oral Health has received the largest cohort of dental students since it was established in 1981.

The University of Sydney’s Dental School will provide the centre and other clinics across the state with 420 students over the course of the year to boost patient care and continue their training and education.

Westmead’s University General Practice department head Dr Raul Taliana said he was delighted to receive such a large number of students.

“The students will perform a full range of dental procedures for patients including check-ups, teeth cleaning, fillings, root canals, extractions, and the construction of dentures, crowns and bridges,” Dr Taliana said.

“Our dental staff are highly skilled, dedicated and driven to achieve exceptional outcomes for our patients, and provide a supportive training environment for the students.”

Dental students also work in the departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery, emergency dentistry, paediatric dentistry and special needs dentistry.

Jacob Wedderburn-Bishop has always loved dentistry. He treats patients as a student dentist throughout the day and works as a sleep technician at night – both roles at Westmead Hospital.

“I really love talking to people and dentistry is perfect for that,” Jacob said.

“I want people to feel relaxed when they’re sitting in the dental chair.

“So I tell them a joke when they have a piece of cotton roll and my mirror in their mouth. It makes them feel more relaxed.

Sydney Dental School dean Professor Heiko Spallek, Westmead Centre for Oral Health University General Practice department head Dr Raul Taliana, dental students Garo Mazmanian (sitting in the chair), Jacob Wedderburn-Bishop, and Rose Mary Nguyen.

“I hope to work as a general dentist at Westmead Hospital once I graduate and continue to help people in pain.”

Sydney Dental School dean Professor Heiko Spallek commended the next generation of dentists who will be offered a diversity of situations and locations.

“All the students will also have the opportunity to work rural and metropolitan areas,” Professor

Spallek said.

Westmead Centre for Oral Health provides comprehensive COVID-19 screening of each patient on arrival, and additional infection control precautions to ensure their safety while receiving care.

For information about the Westmead Centre for Oral Health services, go to www.wslhd.health.nsw. gov.au/Oral-Health

www.knownforlounges.com

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

Westmead Hospital draws largest number of dental students

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Western Sydney student-made video inspires healthy teen lifestyle

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new video made by local teens to encourage high school students to improve diet, reduce screen time and increase physical activity has received positive reviews at an international lifestyle conference.

The video titled ‘Simple Changes’ was designed for the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA) program – a peer-led initiative that educates high school students on healthier lifestyle choices.

The video was written by the Prevention Education and Research Unit (PERU) with students from Chifley College Mount Druitt Campus, Pendle Hill High School and SEDA College.

The video narrative follows Year 8 students Ryan and Sarah as they learn about healthy eating and physical activity from their older mentor and successful businessman Toby.

Toby attributes his personal and business successes to living a controlled and balance lifestyle. He focuses on several points including: • Having eight hours sleep each night • Incorporating fruit and vegetables into daily meals • Consuming a healthy breakfast and snacks • Being active • Limiting screen time • Choosing water instead of sugary soft drinks WSLHD PERU director Associate Professor Smita Shah said the video was developed in addition to face-toface and online training between health professionals and the high school students.

“Since COVID-19 we’ve implemented and encouraged more online learning of the SALSA program,” Smita said.

“We know that teenagers consume information easily by watching short videos, so we produced a fun, easy video which they can relate to.

“It was an honour to have adolescent health expert Professor Susan Sawyer launch the video at the virtual conference.”

The Australasian Lifestyle Medicine Conference was a virtual event held in December 2020 to stimulate innovation in clinical practice, forward-thinking health policies and enhance a global movement in healthcare.

Students from SEDA College.

Students from Chifley College Mount Druitt campus.

Westmead Hospital junior doctor launches educational podcast

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unior doctors are accessing expert education and insight at their own convenience thanks to a new podcast launched by Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

Named JMO On Call, the educational series is the brainchild of resident medical officer Dr Taren Bettler and is designed to tackle the most common and more difficult cases young doctors will face in their first few years on the job.

“I remember how scary it is to be on call after hours for the first time.

You feel like you have no idea what you’re doing,” Dr Bettler said.

“Education is such an important part of our role, but due to COVID-19 there were many restrictions on getting together for teaching last year. Podcasts are one way we kept learning from a distance.

“The episodes are conversational and easy to listen to; we don’t want it to be a lecture. They’re not scripted but they are structured based on real cases.

“It’s a mix of medical and surgical cases – we want the best of both

Westmead Hospital head and neck surgeon Dr Gideon Sandler speaks to resident medical officer Dr Taren Bettler for an episode of the new podcast JMO On Call.

worlds that’s helpful for everyone to know, not niche content.”

Five episodes of JMO On Call are currently available, featuring experts from across WSLHD covering the technical details of topics including high and low blood sugar, delirium and neck lumps.

Among the guests so far is head and neck surgeon Dr Gideon Sandler, who

considered a career in medical media before choosing surgery instead.

“Teaching is part and parcel of being a surgeon. The media seed was already sown for me and now it has germinated,” Dr Sandler said.

“There were no podcasts when I was at medical school, but I found them a good use of my time when I was studying for my fellowship. The

advent of podcasts has increased the sharing of knowledge and allows me to stay up to date with fields I haven’t worked in for more than 10 years.”

Now in her second year at Westmead Hospital, Dr Bettler said she was grateful for all the support she had received in her career so far.

As a member of the Prevocational Liaison Council and the Quality Improvement Committee, she was keen to embrace new ways of keeping her fellow junior doctors in the loop.

Dr Bettler called upon skills she picked up studying a Diploma of Journalism and Digital Media to set up the podcast, which she hosts, records and edits.

New episodes of JMO On Call should be available every fortnight, depending on the availability of consultants, advanced trainees and registrars to share their experience and expertise.

Members of the general public should check out the podcast Western Sydney Health Check for a wider look at a range of health topics featuring experts from WSLHD.

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anuary 24, 2020 was the day everything changed in Australia.

That was the day staff at Westmead Hospital received confirmation they were treating the country’s first case of COVID-19.

Since then Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has performed more than 420,000 COVID-19 tests at dozens of clinics and treated 661 people with the disease, all while keeping hospitals running safely thanks to the dedicated efforts of staff and management.

As we look back on this momentous date, The Pulse spoke to two staff members who were on the ground for this historic occasion.

Infection prevention and disease control expert Professor Ramon Shaban was looking forward to celebrating his birthday over the weekend when confirmation arrived on the Friday afternoon.

A man in his 50s who had recently travelled to Wuhan arrived in Sydney on January 19 and presented to Westmead Hospital days later with a high temperature, cough and sore throat. Tests soon confirmed what the experts already suspected.

“We were expecting this,” Prof Shaban said.

“Our team led by Nicky Gilroy [director of infectious diseases] was monitoring the situation in Wuhan very closely and making the necessary preparations, including setting up the relevant pathology tests.

“There were a lot of long hours and long weekends at that time. We didn’t do much but work.”

Westmead Hospital is the designated high-consequence infectious diseases facility in NSW. This meant despite the unknowns of the new disease, staff were prepared to handle a respiratory outbreak.

“We applied very straightforward control measures and practices, such as isolation, hand hygiene, physical distancing and use of PPE [personal protective equipment]. These basic things we do are what has kept us safe,” Prof Shaban said.

“I take great comfort that we’ve

Westmead Hospital intensive care staff specialist Dr Hemal Vachharajani. She was one of the first people in Australia to treat people critically ill COVID-19.

kept a pretty steady ship using basic measures.”

Westmead Hospital’s first patients were fortunate to have relatively mild infections.

It wasn’t until late March and early April, when NSW was seeing hundreds of new cases every day, that the first desperately sick patients arrived in intensive care.

The ICU made the decision to quarantine all COVID-19 patients in one zone, led by intensive care consultant Hemal Vachharajani.

At first there were four patients. By the end of the week it was eight, all of them intubated – unconscious, with a tube down their throat to keep them breathing.

“They got sick very quickly and required a lot of care. We needed extra medical and nursing staff to look after them and make sure everyone was using their PPE properly, while still ensuring they took breaks,” Dr Vachharajani said.

“They were really long days in the designated COVID zone.”

Besides caring for patients, Dr Vachharajani carried the extra burden of worrying about the safety and wellbeing of her staff.

“There was the added fear of the unknown. We had new information every day, sometimes twice or thrice a day, which was a bit scary. I worried whether we were doing the right thing, the right treatment, while trying to assure staff with their concerns.”

Dr Brandon Verdonk ran Western Sydney’s first COVID-19 clinic in Westmead Hospital.

Drive-through testing clinics, like this one in Stockland Merrylands car park, became of the images most associated with COVID-19 in Australia.

Dr Vachharajani said the support of her colleagues and management, notably ICU director Dr Dani Goh and COVID coordinator Dr Tom Solano, made the difficult task possible.

“I only have praise and respect for the staff here, and gratitude for the support I received from everyone.

Medical, nursing, allied health, social work; we all looked after each other’s wellbeing.

“The acute situation made us forget our differences and work together as a team to the common goal of caring for the sickest patients. We couldn’t achieve what we did without teamwork.”

Most patients from the first wave eventually recovered but sadly it became clear one would die, presenting staff with their biggest logistical challenge: allowing the COVID-positive family members to visit their loved one for the final time.

“I had to protect and assure my staff while also finding a way for family members to come in, even just for five minutes in full PPE,” Dr Vachharajani said.

“That was completely against what we normally do for end of life care.

It was phenomenally hard. We want families to be able to say goodbye in peace but we had to protect everyone.”

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy said the anniversary was an important time to remember the contributions of healthcare staff.

“I am constantly amazed by the hard work and dedication of all of our staff. Over the past 12 months in particular they have done an incredible job supporting our patients and each other,” Graeme said.

“Thank you to the public as well who have acknowledged and supported their hard work, and made sacrifices to help keep everyone safe.”

Prof Shaban said strong leadership from the WSLHD executive team empowered everyone involved to get on with the job.

“As far as crises go, this was exceptionally well-managed from the outset. Enormous teams of people right across the district have contributed all the way along, and they continue to do so. Everyone deserves recognition for doing their part in keeping us safe and keeping our hospitals and health services running.”

While the COVID-19 vaccination program is soon to begin, Prof Shaban warns that life is definitely not about to return to normal.

“Hopefully people continue to physically distance, practice hand hygiene regularly, isolate when they’re unwell and get tested without delay,” he said.

“Australia is extremely fortunate to be where we are now, and that’s no accident. That was only possible with enormous goodwill and teamwork.

This disease is still rampant in many countries around the world, and we must protect against complacency.”

Consultant anaesthetist Dr Kanan Shah ran personal protective equipment (PPE) training for surgery theatre staff across the district.

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

Australia’s first COVID-19 patient was treated at Westmead Hospital

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Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

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WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

Concert Aid

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

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he residents of our district were mostly related due to nonmigration. Because of this, they were always ready to “go the extra mile” when someone fell on hard times, be it financial hardship, injury or death. The “milk of human kindness” amongst those folks who had the means, be it money, food or clothing were quick to rally around, ready to organise a fete, a concert, a sporting activity or a charity drive with whatever was needed in aid of those poor unfortunate residents. In 1894 there was a “First Class Concert” given in aid of funds at the Temperance Hall to purchase an artificial arm for the son of Thomas Richard and Mary Ann Ransley (Nee: Thomson) of Llandilo. James Walter had his wrist fractured due to the accidental discharge of a gun that he was loading. James was out shooting with a double-barrelled muzzle loader gun and about to reload it when he first capped the gun then proceeded to load. He had already loaded one barrel, placing the butt of the weapon on a stump and commenced to load the second barrel when the gun slipped, and the hammer of the loaded barrel caught and went off. The whole charge entered his right wrist just near his hand and travelled through to the other side about three inches higher up and shattered the bones as it went. Fortunately, none of the shot entered his body. His two uncles William and Edward Ransley put him into a sulky as quickly as possible and took him to Dr Scott.

When they reached the Doctor’s surgery an examination showed that amputation of James’ arm was necessary, and they moved to the Nepean Cottage Hospital where he was assisted by Dr Brady and successfully amputated the arm about three inches below the elbow. James, although suffering a good deal of pain did eventually recover. The Concert programme was a good one and the various singers deserved the greatest praise, each and every one doing their best. Mr R Tweedy was the organiser and certainly deserved every credit for his exertions in getting together all of the local talent.

In order to help swell the proceeds, the Sons and Daughters of Temperance generously donated half-a-sovereign towards the funds.

The locals who participated were:- Mr F Howarth and his two sons (instrumental), Jack Herford, Miss McLachlan, Mr J Tedder, Mr S Long, Mr C Dargin, Mr O Nicole, Harry Walton, Mr J Hamblin, Miss Cahill with Messrs Walton and Kay and scholars who attended the Penrith Superior Public School (all singers) brought the entertainment to a close. Miss Peak, Percy Herford and Mr S Long helped with the music. It wasn’t long before another accident happened in 1895, this time it was Edward Ransley, another son of Thomas. Edward was driving in cows when he picked up a stick to throw at one animal that was inclined to break away, but the stick struck a tree and rebounded and struck him fair in the right eye, bursting the optic. He was brought to Dr Pym who dressed the wound and did what he could to allay Edward’s sufferings. The next morning, he was taken to Sydney where he progressed favourably.

This poor Ransley family had been extremely unfortunate because as a young man their father Thomas was on his way home when he threw a stick at a possum that rebounded and caught him in the

right eye that had to be removed, resulting in a glass eye that Tom only used for a short time. In 1913 James Walter Ransley, the same son who lost his right arm in a gun accident in 1894 was engaged in poultry farming at Llandilo where he was doing well. He was kicked by a horse and died at the Nepean Cottage Hospital aged 32.

He was well known as the one-arm bicycle rider, having ridden in the long-distance races from Goulburn to Sydney where he secured third place. Along with other road racers he always received a splendid reception as he was a first-class rider and was better than some who had the use of both arms. At the inquest by the Coroner Arthur Judges, Thomas, his father stated that “he had a horse bad with colic and thought to exercise it after dosing. James said to me to “go and get your dinner and I will keep the mare moving until you come back, and I can have mine later”. I turned away with the intention of doing as he said and had gone about 25 yards when I heard a moan and on looking around my son said, ‘I am kicked in the stomach” and I was with him in a moment when he said, ‘It’s all over with me father”. His mother and sisters ran out and between us we got him inside, undressed him and put him to bed, putting on hot flannels to ease the pain. I went for aid to Mr Stratford and Mr Emmett who came and assisted in every way that could be suggested until the arrival of Dr Higgins. The doctor examined him and said the case was profoundly serious and that his removal to the Nepean Cottage Hospital was absolutely necessary if an operation was to be performed. The doctor gave very little hope of his recovery. We brought him to the hospital as comfortably as we could. He bore the journey well and received immediate attention at the institution.

I left the hospital at 10 pm and came back next morning remaining until after the operation. He appeared to make a splendid rally and we saw him regain consciousness. His brother remained at the hospital in case of emergency while I went home being anxious about my wife who was completely prostrate by the shock she had received. I intended to come back later at 8 pm. I got word via St Marys that he had died an hour earlier. Dr Higgins stated that “I saw James Walter Ransley at his father’s residence at Llandilo and he was suffering very acutely from shock and was in great pain. Next morning the abdomen was opened at the hospital and the damage was repaired as far as possible, but his condition was hopeless from the outset and he never improved. There were not any marks on the abdominal wall and a tear in the intestine must have been caused by pressure against the ends of the lower ribs and death was probably due to shock,” which was the Coroner’s finding. His life was assured by the AMP 8ociety and he possessed 65 acres of land at Llandilo and some money. There was a very large funeral, and his remains were interred in the Church of England portion of the General Cemetery at Kingswood. Thomas and Mary Ann had twelve children. Thomas died in 1937, Mary died in 1949 and both are buried in the General Cemetery at Kingswood. The Ransley family are highly respected in the area with a Penrith street named after them.

Sources: - Nepean Times, Trove, Ancestry, BDM online, Family Search (Mormon website).

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Western News

local news

M

elbourne-based artist Leon Zhan has taken out the People’s Choice Prize as part of the 2020 Blacktown City Art Prize.

The acrylic on canvas work, AirDrop, was named the winner based on a popular vote as part of the 2020 Blacktown City Art Prize (BCAP) exhibition at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.

Almost 3000 votes – 2759 online and 180 in person – were tallied as part of the People’s Choice Prize, which comes with $1000 in prize money.

The work was one of 111 finalist artworks selected for exhibition in the BCAP between 28 November, 2020 and 28 January, 2021.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said the community chose an outstanding work.

“Congratulations to Leon Zhan for winning the People’s Choice Prize with this incredibly striking piece of art,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Now in its 25th year, the Blacktown City Art Prize is a major cultural event in Western Sydney.

“There were a record number of pieces submitted this year – almost 900 – and all the finalists selected were very impressive.”

Mr Zhan said it was an honour to have won the Prize and he was very pleased that so many people took enjoyment from AirDrop.

“In this work, I took a familiar interface that we only perceive digitally and recontextualised it through painting to create the impression that the canvas has a digital potential which viewers can interact with,” Mr Zhan said.

this opportunity and thank you to everyone who supported and voted.”

The major Blacktown City Art Prizes were announced last November.

Western Sydney artist Linda Brescia took out the top award at the 2020 BCAP for her portrait of American patron of the arts Peggy Guggenheim, an acrylic on canvas artwork titled Peggy.

The judging panel of Kyra KumSing, Pedro de Almeida, and Cath Barcan faced the difficult task of selecting artworks for the exhibition, whittling the 897 entries from 660 artists down to 111 finalists.

The winner of the Aboriginal Artist Prize was Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay man Dennis Golding for his piece From Home to Home, made with velvet, satin fabric, acrylic, and sequins.

The Local Artist Prize was awarded to Seven Hills resident Graham Cheney for his acrylic on canvas artwork Auntie Rita Wright.

“It comments on the idea of authorship through a contemporary lens by looking backwards as well as forwards. It is up to the viewer to decide whether they ‘Accept’ or ‘Decline’.

“To achieve this level of precision

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

Leon Zhan announced as winner of People’s Choice Prize

13

it took about a month to complete this painting.

“It’s an honour to receive such an award and to know that so many people also enjoyed my work is extremely gratifying to me. Thank you to Blacktown Arts for providing

CROSSWORD ACROSS 8 A gesture of farewell (4) 9 An ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure (5) 10 Shaft on which a wheel rotates (4) 11 Scream (6) 12 Type of synthetic rubber (8) 13 Designates beforehand (8) 15 Pierce on a stake (6) 17 Controversial (7) 19 Genius (slang) (7) 22 Gaelic (6) 24 Encouraged (8) 26 Force (8) 28 Degree or boundary (6) 30 Satisfy (4) 31 Made a mistake (5) 32 No (slang) (4)) down 1 Solemn promise (4) 2 Diverges (8) 3 Sleeveless jacket (6)

solution 5/2/21

4

5 6 7 14 16 18 20 21 23 25 27 29

Pertaining to the most populous country (7) Firing a projectile (8) Persian governor (6) Scheme (4) Strange or spooky (5) Rental agreement (5) Encompasses (8) Lifting (8) Pistol (7) Preferences (6) Quick (6) The back end (4) Small sharp bites (4)

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

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REAL ESTATE

Western News

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

F

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. You can’t keep up with current deliveries or service calls A backlog of order deliveries or customers waiting too long for service is a sure indicator of a fleet that’s either too small or not suitable for the job. Don’t risk losing clients just because your fleet is letting you down.

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

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

3. Vehicles are more than five years old.

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

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

5. Bumps and dents spell brand damage Do your vehicles look unloved, in spite of the fact that they carry

your branding as a form of mobile advertisement? Too many dents and scratches will see your image taking a beating too, not to mention the safety risks of some impact damage that is more than cosmetic.

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

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

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

@wealthwiz

Lower your emissions and your costs at the same time Small businesses can access a discount of up to 0.7% on their finance rate by choosing electric or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles for their fleet. Ask about the details of this partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).

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

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

The first step towards finding business finance is calling Alex on 0419 600 177 to help you secure the business equipment you need at a competitive rate. * The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional tax advice.

Once you’ve purchased your equipment, you can claim the instant asset write-off during tax time*. As mentioned, it’ll be a one-off claim, making it easier on you and your wallet. *as a part of the stimulus response, this will allow SMEs to instantly write-off assets before 30 June 2021.

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Western News

SPORT

Planning is well underway and organisers are hopeful the community has been busy making, baking, growing, sewing, building and painting.

The printed ‘Pavilion Schedule’ is now out and has already been delivered to many Art, Craft, Wool, Photography, Cake Decorating and other stores within the Hawkesbury area.

The schedules are also on the website and can be accessed at: http:// www.hawkesburyshowground.com. au/show/schedules If you would like a printed copy, please feel free to call into the Hawkesbury Showground office to collect one.

On-line entries open on Monday 25th February or you can use the entry form to drop entries into the office Monday - Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm.

By Noel Rowsell

H

awkesbury Showground hosted the 2021 Hawkesbury Summer Hack Show over the weekend of 30th-31st January, with the relaxing of Covid restrictions ensuring bumper entries for the event.

Events over the two days included Hacks, Thoroughbred, Warmbloods, Clydesdale Cross, Friesian Warmblood, Galloways, Ponies, Show Hunter Ponies, Show Hunter Galloways, Show Hunter Hacks, Leading Rein, Junior Riders, Senior Riders, Adult Riders, Open Beginner Riders, Light Harness and Heavy Horse.

The action was staged across 6 rings, beginning at 8am and featuring between 500-600 events on each day.

The next major event scheduled for the Hawkesbury Showground will be the Hawkesbury Show on 23rd-25th April.

Action from the Hawkesbury Showground on Sunday 31st January.

Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Crowther defies the elements to win the Stonecutters Ridge Cup

By Noel Rowsell

H

eavy rain conditions contributed to a reduced field for the 2021 Stonecutters Ridge Cup, which was played at Stonecutters Ridge GC on 13th February.

From the original start list of 170 players, just 138 played on the day with only 121 surviving the elements to make it through the full 18 holes.

Jake Crowther (Asquith GC) shot a score of 70 in the difficult conditions to claim the Cup, just one shot ahead of a trio of challengers, Corey Rae (Cromer GC), Joseph Curran (Moore Park GC) and Matthew Horton (Stonecutters Ridge GC) all on 71.

The Nett event was won by Luke Shahmatov (Fox Hills) on 68, ahead of Matthew Tuite (Beverley Park GC), Nicholas Miller (Muirfield GC), Ashley Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) and Matthew Horton (Stonecutters Ridge GC), who all finished on 69.

Wanderers latest club to say no to sports betting sponsors Sports fans in NSW will soon be able to enjoy more sport free of betting advertisements after the Office of Responsible Gambling announced a new partnership with the Western Sydney Wanderers.

Natalie Wright, Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, said the one-year ‘GambleAware’ partnership aims to address the normalisation of sports betting and raise awareness of gambling harm.

The agreement follows a similar partnership with Cricket NSW announced late last year, under which Sydney Big Bash games are free of on-ground betting advertising.

“Attending a live sports event is a real ritual for many people in NSW, and we’re excited that different codes and teams are supporting their fans to ‘Reclaim the Game’ and turning down gambling advertising and sponsorship,” Ms Wright said.

“It’s fantastic to have the Wanderers on board alongside Cricket NSW and we look forward to more announcements in the future.

“We think you should be able to enjoy sport without betting. That’s why we’re working with sports codes and teams to Reclaim the Game and get back to what sport is meant to be about.”

Under the agreement, the Wanderers will not accept any sports betting sponsorships or promotional agreements, and the club will educate staff, players and their fans about the risks associated with gambling.

“The Wanderers have shown great leadership as the first A-League club to join the Reclaim the Game initiative, and they are to be congratulated on their commitment to bringing sport to their fans, minus the betting promotion,” Ms Wright said.

John Tsatsimas, CEO of the Wanderers said the move is aligned with the club’s strong focus on community.

“The Western Sydney Wanderers are fortunate to have some of the most passionate, engaged fans of all clubs,” Tsatsimas said.

“We value those communities who have been such strong supporters, and one of the ways we aim to give back is by choosing partnerships that encourage community wellbeing.

“We know that gambling is an issue that concerns many in our Western Sydney community, and we’re really excited to have this opportunity to raise awareness of gambling harm and reduce the amount of betting promotion that our fans are exposed to.”

The Wanderers’ next A-League home game is scheduled for 10 February, when they take on Melbourne Victory FC. The Office of Responsible Gambling is in discussions with other sporting codes and clubs and hopes to announce more sign ups to Reclaim the Game throughout the year.

If you or someone you care about needs support or advice, please call Gambling Help NSW on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential help and support 24/7.

Western News 19 February 2021 Issue 129

2021 Hawkesbury Summer Hack Show

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Western News Friday, 19 February 2021

SPORT

BRBW Host Women’s Knockout Competition

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Blacktown Red Belly Warriors (BRBW) hosted the inaugural Women’s Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout on Saturday 6th February at the Kingsway, at St Marys.

Under 16 Girls, Under 15 Boys and Under 17 Boys teams were also invited to compete on the day, attracting entries from the Redfern All Blacks, Mount Druitt United, Newcastle Hawks, Yuin Fit (South Coast), Dunghutti Young Bloods (Kempsey) and from the hosts BRBW. After a full day of games, the Grand Finalists in each division were: U15 Boys: Mount Druitt United defeated BRBW 300; U16 Girls: BRBW defeated Newcastle Hawks 24-0; U17 Boys: BRBW defeated Newcastle Falcons 38-8; Women: Redfern All Blacks defeated Newcastle Hawks 300.

BRBW released the following statement regarding the day - “From all of us at BRBW we’d like to thank you all for supporting us with our vision and for being part of our Inaugural BRBW Women’s Knockout in 2021.

“In particular, thank you to the clubs, their coaching and management staff and to the

players and their families (especially those who travelled). We sincerely appreciate your patience with the late changes to scheduling on the day due to some teams being unable to make it at the last minute.

“We are so proud to have hosted a knockout in Western Sydney that was strong in culture, community and showcased rugby league talent. We appreciate all who helped make it happen. We hope to see you all there next year for even bigger and better things!”

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