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Friday, 21 January 2022
ISSUE 153
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Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
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Western News
Ninja World Obstacle Course Free Pop-up Obstacle Course at Seven Hills Plaza for January School Holidays
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ntroducing Ninja World, an exciting obstacle course for 5 to 12-year-olds that is great for building coordination and strength whilst having out of this world fun! It is the perfect way to get the little ones away from their screens these school holidays and keep fit. Ninja World obstacle course houses a collection of amazing climbing and exercise activities. The course comes with trained instructors on site to guide and assist the kids as they have the time of their lives. ‘Ninja World Rules’ are designed with safety as the highest priority, and time is left between each child for them to securely start their Ninja World experience. Marketing Executive, Amy Lee described Ninja World as “a massive popup structure that has little ninjas swinging on ropes and platforms, climbing cargo nets and ladders, and swinging into a brightly coloured ball pool”. She continued to say the course has been created as a fun learning activity and is an ideal opportunity for kids to get together with their friends and build wonderful memories. Ninja World has Covid-safe measures in place
with all staff wearing masks and sanitising their hands frequently. Children must sanitise their hands before entry and parents must wait outside the space. All equipment is spray sanitised regularly throughout the activation. Seven Hills Plaza is delighted to welcome children to Ninja World for daily fun until Australia Day, Wednesday 26 January. The event is open
between 10am – 1:30pm each day (last entry at 1:15pm). For safety and hygiene, children must wear grip socks to participate. Parents can either bring grip socks from home or purchase them for $5 at the event – cash transactions only. More information can be found on the Seven Hills Plaza website: www.sevenhillsplaza.com.au/whats-on
Brave Beatrix! COVID-19 vaccinations for 5 to 11-year-olds commence
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ix-year-old Beatrix was one of the first children aged five to 11 to receive her COVID-19 vaccine in western Sydney. Vaccinations for the age group have commenced with parents and carers urged to book their children an appointment as soon as possible. “My vaccine didn’t hurt! It was quick and easy. To everyone out there, get vaccinated,” the six-year-old said afterward. “The nurse showed me exactly what vaccination she was receiving, then talked to Beatrix and administered the vaccine,” followed Beatrix’s mum Carly. The Pfizer (Comirnaty) children’s vaccine is the approved COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 – 11 years in Australia. The dose is around 1/3 of the dose for people aged 12 years and older. Children will receive two doses of the vaccine, given 8 weeks apart. In certain circumstances, the second dose can be brought forward to 3 weeks after the first dose, including: • in an outbreak response • prior to the initiation of significant immunosuppression • before international travel. Consent is required from a parent or guardian at booking and at the appointment. If the parent or guardian
to reduce her risk of catching COVID-19 and reduce the spread in the community.” NSW Health vaccination clinics
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I think if there’s anything we can do as parents to keep our kids safe, we should do it, and that’s why I haven’t hesitated to get my daughter vaccinated. Beatrix’s mum, Carly
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WSLHD Granville Vaccination Centre Kids start getting jabbed. Left to right: Carly and Beatrix 6 years old
is unable to attend the appointment, a nominated accompanying adult can be identified during the booking process. NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said vaccine will be made available for the roughly 720,000 children in the age group across the state. “More than 18,000 kids aged five to 11 have caught COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, which highlights why vaccination is so important,” Mr Perrottet said. “We saw a great vaccination
response for children aged 12-15 years, so we hope parents will book in their younger children before they start or go back to school.” Beatrix’s mum Carly says she didn’t have any concerns about getting her daughter vaccinated as she’d read the information available to the community from trusted sources. “I’d say to other parents, if you’re thinking of getting your kids vaccinated and you’re not sure, read trusted sources like NSW Health. I wanted to get my daughter vaccinated
across the state are administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children. Parents can book their child’s appointment at a range of centres including general practitioners, community pharmacies, and NSW Health clinics.
Changed traffic conditions on Great Western Highway at Minchinbury Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from next week on Great Western Highway at Minchinbury for utility investigations. Work will be carried out along the highway from Minchin Drive to
Rupertswood Road until Monday 7 March, weather permitting. The work will take place in two day shifts from 7am to 5pm on weekdays and 8am to 1pm Saturdays. Temporary lane closures, traffic
control and reduced speed limits will be in place for the safety of pedestrians, workers and motorists. Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.
Transport for NSW thanks the community for their patience during this time. For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.
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ouncillor Tony Bleasdale OAM has been re-elected Mayor of Blacktown City and has shared a vision of unity, growth and transformation. Councillor Brad Bunting was elected Deputy Mayor by his colleagues at a meeting of Blacktown City Council on Tuesday, following the December 2021 Local Government Elections. “I accept this honour with great pride and enthusiasm and thank my fellow Councillors for placing their trust and confidence in me once again,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “I look forward to leading this wonderful group of councillors and I have great faith in the commitment they each have to Blacktown City. “I am excited to lead a strong, passionate group which works together with a shared vision for our City and represents the diversity of our community. “We know Blacktown City is the jewel in the crown of Western Sydney, and as Mayor, I intend to continue to build the modern city our residents and businesses need into the future. “I congratulate all new and returning Councillors on their election and thank the former councillors for their unwavering dedication.” Mayor Bleasdale will embark on his 20th year as a Councillor, having
Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM (left) has been re-elected Mayor of Blacktown City, with Councillor Brad Bunting (right) elected Deputy Mayor.
first been elected to Blacktown City Council in 1996. Completing the City’s Transformational Projects as well as the Blacktown Brain and Spinal Institute (BBSI) are at the top of the Mayor’s agenda for the coming term. “Blacktown City has a $22 billion economy and our Transforming Blacktown program will set our City up for a strong and robust future,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “There will be many exciting changes over the coming years -
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we will see more ACU students in our city centre, continued progress at the Warrick Lane development site and the opening of our stateof-the-art International Centre of Training Excellence at the Blacktown International Sportspark. “Our best-practice animal rehoming centre, known as BARC, at Glendenning is rapidly taking shape too. “In the near future, I look forward to providing an exciting update on the BBSI, which constitutes an enormous
investment which will revolutionise the way people view our City. “Along with significant investment in Mount Druitt and the north of the Blacktown city centre, we expect further investment to follow in all the major centres in our City.” Mayor Bleasdale restated Council’s commitment to the environment, and driving Council’s investment in renewable energy and sustainable service delivery. Cr Bunting said it was a great privilege to step into the role of Deputy Mayor as he embarked on his second term with Council. A passionate sportsman, Cr Bunting was first elected to Council in 2016 and has served the Blacktown local community for many years through a range of sporting groups and committees. “I am honoured to serve the Blacktown City Community as Deputy Mayor and look forward to joining Mayor Bleasdale and my fellow Councillors during this period of great transformation for our City,” Cr Bunting said. “My pledge is to continue to advocate for Blacktown City and improve the lives of all residents through the ongoing growth of Council’s libraries, pools, sporting fields, playgrounds and community hubs.”
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
Mayor Bleasdale re-elected, Councillor Brad Bunting as Deputy Mayor
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Western News
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
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Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 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
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any of us would have been thinking at the end of last year, “bring on the new year and just get this one over with; nothing could be worse than 2021.” There’s an old saying “Don’t ever challenge worse.” We may be out of lockdown, but so many other roadblocks that we never envisaged are now in our way. Many people are in various stages of isolation, staff shortages are everywhere you go and supermarket shelves have never looked so empty. Everyone now knows people who have or have had Covid, and for those of us who have so far successfully managed to evade it, its like skipping through a minefield dodging positive cases left and right. As a friend recently quipped to me, we started the year with a mouse plague and ended it with a rat shortage. Who’d have thought getting your hands on a rat would feel like hitting the jackpot? The only racquet we can arm ourselves with to backhand this thing is our ability to be considerate of others. We all need to stick to the rules that are there to protect others; even the grand slammers. As we weave our way through the latest grenades this mongrel pandemic throws at us, we wish you a happy Australia Day and all the best for the year ahead. May you and your family be safe, healthy and employed.
Western News
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lacktown City Council will cancel a number of major events scheduled for January and February in response to the latest COVID-19 outbreak. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “In the interests of the community’s health and wellbeing, Council has made the difficult decision to cancel a number of major outdoor events, including the Australia Day Concert and Fireworks and Lunar New Year celebrations. “Council has a duty of care to the community and our staff to minimise the spread of infection amid the current surge in COVID-19 cases. “It is essential we reduce the pressure on our frontline emergency services who would have normally been required to attend these events. “We understand that many people will be disappointed by this decision, however, we believe this is the most sensible approach to keep our City safe.” The Australia Day Concert and Fireworks at the Rooty Hill will no longer go ahead, as well as Council’s Lunar New Year celebrations planned for Nurragingy Reserve on Saturday,
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
Council cancels outdoor events in response to COVID-19 outbreak
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5 February. The Sydney Symphony in the Park event planned for Saturday, 12 February, will no longer proceed, with all ticket holders to receive a refund. Please note, the Wake Up with the Wildlife breakfast scheduled at Featherdale Wildlife Park on Australia Day will still proceed as planned. “Council does not make this decision lightly, but due to the high transmission rates of COVID-19 in NSW, it is important we do all we can to limit any further spread of the virus at this time,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “This decision has been made based on concerns among the community about large gatherings, extended wait times on Ambulance Services should an incident occur, volunteer shortages within St John Ambulance as well as staff shortages at NSW Police and Council. “I thank the community for their understanding at this challenging time, but together, we will work through this.” For further details on Council events, visit the website: www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Events-andactivities
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Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
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AUSTRALIA DAY 26 January Good ole-fashioned
Aussie lingo With Australia Day coming up let’s have a bit of a gander at some old Aussie slang sayings that only true blue Aussies would understand!
Old slang.. all but forgotten!
› As flash as a rat with a gold tooth › It beats a poke in the eye with a blunt stick › Ya bloody scallywag! › He’s cactus › He’s got a head like a beaten favourite › How ya going Cobber? › Ken oath! › Bangs like a dunny door in a hurricane › On the blower › Hum dinger › She’s got a kangaroo loose in the top paddock › Stone the flamin crows › You pong! › He was grinning like a shot fox › She’s the duck’s guts › Amber fluid › He’s as fat as a butcher’s dog › Feeling as crook as Rookwood › Where’s me doovalacky? › Grouse! › She’s up at a sparrow’s fart › He’s come a gutzer › Within a coo-ee › That’s about as rare as rocking horse poo › Big-noting yourself › Bonzer bloke › Off like a brides nightie › Barrack for your team › Strewth › She’s done the Harold Holt › London to a brick › Hoo-roo › She shot through like a Bondi tram › He’s lower than a snake’s bum › She can talk under water with a mouthful of marbles Q: What is the difference between an Australian wedding and an › I’m so hungry I could I could eat a horse and chase its rider Australian funeral? › I’m busier than a one legged bloke in an ar$e-kicking competition › She could eat a toffee apple through a tennis racquet A: One less drunk at the funeral - (applied to buck teethed women)
› My throat feels like the scrapings from the Cockie’s cage › She’s got a face like five miles of unmade road › As popular as a pork chop in Jerusalem. › As much use as an ashtray on a motorbike › He’s as reliable as a two bob watch › His language was so bad, he’d make a warfie blush › Fits like a bum in a bucket › She’s as thick as two short planks › He’s so fat you’d need a cut lunch to get around him
“There’s not a better country anywhere in the world. Let’s celebrate the rights, freedoms and liberties with which we are richly blessed and which we should never take for granted. Have a great Australia Day!”
Kevin
Conolly
MP
State Member for Riverstone Phone: (02) 8883 3499 Fax: (02) 8883 3355 Mail: P.O. Box 65, Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768 Email: riverstone@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Kevin Conolly MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. January 2022.
Q: Why do kangaroos hate rainy days? A: Because their children play inside. Q: What did the necktie say to the Akubra Hat? A: “You go on a head mate, I’ll just hang around.” I was recently turned down on my application for an Australian green card, on account of my criminal record. Bit bloody ironic is it not?
26 January
AUSTRALIA DAY
Anywhere, anytime when Aussie Aussie Aussie is the cry, Proud Australians come to order, Oi, Oi, Oi the only reply. We are the best country in the world they say, built on hardwork and respect, To call yourself an Aussie a couple of things we need to check. Do you wear thongs during summer, have a stubbie holder in reach, Do you wear budgies or boardies when you’re swimming at the beach. Can you cook sausages on the barbie, operate tongs with your left hand, Do you spread vegemite on toast? Is Cold Chisel your favourite band? Is Bob Hawke our greatest Prime Minister, favourite cricketer Warnie or Big Merv, When you walk past a good sort, do you look back and have a perv?
WORD SEARCH
When you hear the Aussie chant, does your heart pump more blood, Does your spine start to tingle, do your emotions flow and flood.
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
How Aussie Are You ?
Do you bet on the Melbourne Cup, were you taught to slip slop slap? Importantly, can you move the sprinkler without turning off the tap. Now these are just the basics, minimum requirements some may say, I encourage you to run this test while celebrating this Australia Day. Cheers to all that pass this test, crack a beer, relax and enjoy, Make sure you sing this loud and proud - Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi. See more tributes @ mrdannytribute.com.au
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Aussie Slang Arvo Billabong Billy Bonzer Chook Corker Fairdinkum
Ripper Snag Swag Thongs Togs Tucker Yabber
Gday Heaps Joey Jumbuck Moolah Mosquito Outback
From my family to yours
Happy Australia Day! ???
Prue Car MP Stephen Bali MP Member for Blacktown Phone: 9671 5222 Shop 3063, Westpoint Shopping Centre, Blacktown Email: blacktown@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Stephen Bali MP, Shop 3063 Westpoint Shopping Centre, 17 Patrick Street, Blacktown NSW 2148. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. January 2022.
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Member for Londonderry
Our diverse community comes together as one to celebrate the love we all share for this great nation on Australia Day Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. January 2022
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Thank you to our frontline workers in health, emergency services, transport, hospitality and retail who continue to show up each day in exceptionally challenging circumstances. The people of Blacktown have shown enormous resilience in recent times. Continue demonstrating mateship, compassion and kindness to one another.
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
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Early childhood community grants approved for Riverstone electorate
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hildren from low income families and Aboriginal children living in the Riverstone electorate will now have additional support to participate in 600 hours of quality early childhood education in the two years prior to school. Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said that six early childhood services across the Riverstone electorate will receive grants that will allow preschool students to engage and learn in their earliest years. “Grants of up to $10,000 to each provider have been approved for a range of activities to support participation by children from low income families and Aboriginal children placed in a preschool program,” Mr Conolly said. The following providers have received the grants: • Catholic Early Learning Centre St John XXIII Parish, GlenwoodStanhope Gardens
• Kids’ Early Learning Blacktown City Quakers Hill North • Kids’ Early Learning Blacktown City Quakers Hill preschool • Norwest Christian College • Kids’ Early Learning Blacktown City Quakers Hill • Kids Early Learning Blacktown City Riverstone “COVID-19 has really challenged our community over the past two
years. Early learning services play a critical role in supporting children and their families. It’s fantastic to see this funding being made available to support the work of these services across the Riverstone electorate.” Mr Conolly said. Funding may be used for a range of activities that improve participation in early childhood education, including providing breakfast programs and
working with local Aboriginal community members to conduct Aboriginal art programs. Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said these grants will enable services in the Riverstone electorate to provide educational activities that will strengthen the foundations of children’s learning in those crucial years before school. “The NSW Government is committed to increasing educational access to quality early childhood education services, particularly for children from low income families and those from Aboriginal families,” Ms Mitchell said. “They’ll also be able to provide access to specialised staff to deliver targeted support to children and their families.” For more information, visit the Department of Education website.
Register positive covid test results with Service nsw
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nyone who tests positive using a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) will now be required to register their result with Service NSW. Premier Dominic Perrottet said the new registration process was an important part of managing the pandemic. “NSW residents can register their result with just a few clicks on the Service NSW website or by using the Service NSW app,” Mr Perrottet said. “Registering your RAT result enables NSW Health to provide you with advice on self-isolation and managing COVID-19 symptoms at
home, to connect high risk people to clinical care services and to help inform the ongoing public health response.” Most people do not need a PCR test to confirm they are positive for COVID-19. Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the reporting of a positive RAT will be required under a public health order. “Ensuring individuals are connected to the appropriate public health advice and keeping a watch on trends is the prime purpose,” Mr Hazzard said. If you are under 65 years of age, have had two doses of COVID-19
vaccine, do not suffer from any chronic health conditions and are not pregnant, you may be able to safely manage COVID-19 at home. Customer Service and Digital Government Minister Victor Dominello said privacy would be at the forefront of this new feature. “This technology has been built with trust and security at its core. Service NSW will send the information directly to NSW Health, it isn’t shared with any third parties, and is then deleted from Service NSW records within days,” Mr Dominello said. “There are more than seven million
Service NSW account holders but we’re also committed to making this process inclusive for those without that access. Those who need assistance can contact Service NSW on 13 77 88.” Most people with COVID-19 will have a mild illness and will recover in a few days or so, with some people having no symptoms at all. Please contact your GP or call the NSW Health COVID-19 Care at Home Support Line on 1800 960 933 if you are pregnant, or if you have a chronic condition. For the most up-to-date COVID information visit nsw.gov.au
Adjusted hours at Blacktown City Council pools, gyms and libraries Due to the impact of COVID-19 infections, a number of Blacktown City Council venues will operate at reduced hours over the coming weeks. Council’s aquatic and leisure centres at Blacktown, Stanhope Gardens, Emerton and Riverstone will be affected by adjusted hours as well as Blacktown City Libraries. The temporary change of hours comes after a number of staff tested positive to the virus or have been identified as close contacts, making them unable to work. The changes will come into effect at all venues, excluding Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton, from 10 January until 30 January. Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre has already implemented adjusted hours, as of 5 January. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM apologised for the inconvenience caused. “Unfortunately, the high number of COVID-19 infections we are seeing
in our community has also impacted staff at Council venues across Blacktown City,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “This has meant many have tested positive or have been in close contact with a positive case, meaning they are unable to work. “As a result, Council has made the difficult decision to reduce hours at the City’s aquatic and leisure centres and libraries. “We hope to return to normal operating hours as soon as possible and thank our residents for their patience. “I wish everyone affected by the virus at this time a speedy recovery.” Details of adjusted service hours for the period 10 - 30 January are below. For the latest COVID-19 information, visit www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au/Services/Health-andsafety/Response-to-Coronavirus/ Operating-status-for-Councilvenues-and-facilities
Adjusted Operating Hours Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope Normal operating hours Monday 5.30am – 9.00pm Tuesday – Friday 5.30am – 9.00pm Saturday / Sunday 8.00am – 7.00pm From 10 – 30 January Monday 7.30am – 9.00pm Tuesday – Friday 7.30am – 7.30pm Saturday / Sunday 8.00am – 5.00pm Blacktown Aquatic Centre Normal operating hours Monday – Friday 5.30am – 7.30pm Saturday 6.00am – 7.00pm Sunday 8.00am – 7.00pm From 10 – 30 January Monday – Friday 7.30am – 7.30pm Saturday 6.00am – 5.00pm Sunday 8.00am – 5.00pm Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton Normal operating hours Monday - Friday 7.30am – 8.00pm (stadium to 9.30pm) Saturday / Sunday 8.00am – 7.00pm (stadium to 5.00pm)
From 5 – 30 January Monday - Friday 7.30am – 6.00pm Monday 6.00pm – 9.30pm (stadium only 17 & 24 Jan) Saturday / Sunday 8.00am – 5.00pm Riverstone Swim Centre Normal operating hours Monday – Sunday 9.00am – 7.00pm From 10 – 30 January Monday – Sunday 9.00am – 6.00pm Mount Druitt Swim Centre Normal operating hours Monday – Sunday 9.00am – 7.00pm From 10 – 30 January Monday – Sunday 9.00am – 6.00pm Blacktown City Libraries Normal operating hours Libraries normally close at 7.45pm Monday through Friday, weekend hours are as listed on Council’s website. From 10 – 30 January All libraries to operate from 9.30am to 5.00pm Monday through Friday All libraries to operate from 9.30am to 4.00pm Saturdays and 12.00 to 4.00pm Sundays
Western News
WESTERN HISTORY
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By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
ustralian Royalty family James Evans was born in 1802. He was one of 220 convicts transported on the ship “Batavia” in October 1817 after being convicted at Stafford Assizes for “privately stealing”. At the Assizes the total number of people tried amounted to 123 and of these 17 received the sentence of death. He was sentenced for a term of 14 years and arrived in April 1818. In the 1828 census he was a labourer for Henry Cox at “Littleborough”, Kelso where he met Mary Ann Lewis a widow born in the colony in 1792 and living in Bathurst. Her husband had died before 1825 and she was left with some cattle, sheep and a working ox. A letter was sent to the Governor asking permission for James and Mary to marry with the consent of Henry Cox who asked that he remove James “some distance from the district”. The religious marriage of James and Mary Ann took place in 1829 in Kelso. Mary’s original husband Richard Lewis, a grazier in Bathurst and came on the” Coromandel” sentenced for 7 years. His marriage with Mary was solemnized at St James church in Sydney in January 1825. Mary Ann died in December 1868 in Sydney and is buried at Pioneers Memorial Park Leichhardt, Inner West Council, James is not buried with her. Their son James (Jnr) was born in 1830 at Richmond. He married Sarah Mary Purcell in 1851 at Pitt Town, Wilberforce. They resided in Penrith had nine children. He learnt the trade of blacksmith and it was believed he served his apprenticeship with Henry Hall of Emu Plains. For many years he carried on farming successfully at Castlereagh. Later he became a Government contractor building several public schools in the District as well as some of the best houses in the town of Penrith, but in his later years he was not as successful and finally gave it up and tried farming again at Castlereagh. The altered conditions of farming became somewhat new to him and he gave it up after a short trial. He then started again as a blacksmith of agricultural implements. Finally giving up when there was not enough business and assisted his son-in-law Alderman Easterbrook in the butchering business. James was highly respected throughout the district with the position of Alderman in the Penrith Municipal Council from 1876-81 then re-elected in 1883 and became Mayor in 1885 but didn’t stand for re-election in 1886. He was a prominent Mason having been a Past Master in the old Queen’s Lodge E.C, his lectures were always perfect and he did more to advance the cause of Masonry in the Penrith district. He never occupied the position of Master in the new Nepean Lodge although he was ready to assist in the raisings, passing’s, and instruction as well as delivering charges, etc. He died in April 1895 at Penrith at the age of 65 in “mysterious” circumstances” his death remaining a mystery. His inquest was held at Joyce’s Hotel before Mr J K Lethbridge, J.P., District Coroner and a jury of twelve. His daughter who lived at Mulgoa Road with her parents attended the inquest and said she was at home and saw her father last when he went to bed at a quarter to eight as he usually retired early and appeared to be in good health and spirits and was talking to us before bed. In the morning she heard him come out into the dining room from his bedroom he came to her bedroom door as he usually did and called out Eva and she replied that she was getting up and heard him winding up the clock then went out and came back in again and was standing on the veranda talking to her about the fowls then she went into the dining-room and saw him lying on the couch. She asked what the matter was and he replied he had a pain in his stomach that he had all night so she brought him a hot
Photo of “Littleborough” courtesy of Sue Rosen Assoc.
cup of tea and she heard no more until she heard her mother ask him what’s the matter and he said he was ill and could not speak any more. They sent for Dr Shand who first noticed that there was no change in his breathing but sometime afterwards he appeared to be convulsed in pain. It was thought that he took a crystal substance of a reddish colour from a bottle in the house and at the time there was a half packet of Epsom salts on the shelf in the dining-room like what was produced at the inquest. There was also two bottles of poison in a small box on the chest of drawers in her mother’s bedroom and something said to her that morning made her look where the poison was kept and she found the strychnine that had been in the house for ten or twelve years and that her father had not been able to get work for a long time and didn’t know if he had been pressed by anyone and it never seemed to trouble him about money matters or want of work and with her father being so long out of work the money was nearly all gone and there was not more than £3 or £4 owing to her knowledge as her father was a very steady man and lived happily with us. Several other people gave information at the inquest including a Small Debts Court bailiff who said he had a warrant to distrain on James’s goods and chattels for rent due amounting to £5/10s and was told he could not pay it but would settle with me today. The verdict was “The death was probably caused by an overdose of strychnine but that there is no evidence to show how, or by what means, such strychnine was administered.” His funeral was a Masonic one with about forty of the brethren taking part in the procession. The W.M. of the Lodge (Brother Colley) read the service at the grave. The procession was said to be the largest seen in Penrith for some time. He was buried at St Stephen’s cemetery, Penrith. Photo of “Littleborough” courtesy of Sue Rosen Assoc. Source: State Library of Queensland. Convict Transportation Registers Database 1787-1867, Bateson, Charles. The convict ships 1787-1868. 2nd ed. Glasgow : Brown, Son & Ferguson Ltd., 1969, 1828 New South Wales, Australia Census, British Newspaper Archive, Ancestry, BDM, Nepean Times, 1825 muster (1823-1825), NSW and Tasmania, Australia Convict Musters, 1806-1849, 1822 Muster, Star (London) - Tuesday 25 March 1817, State Library of Queensland. Convict Transportation Registers Database 1787-1867, Bateson, Charles. The convict ships 1787-1868. Glasgow Brown, Son & Ferguson Ltd., 1985-1969, Ancestry.1828 New South Wales, Australia Census, British Newspaper Archive on-line, Australia Marriage Index, 1788-1950 on-line, BDM, Nepean Times, New South Wales and Tasmania, Australia Convict Musters, 1806-1849, Citation details 1822 Muster, Australia Death Index, 1787-1985.
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Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
Mysterious 1895 Death
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Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
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local news
Western News
Enrolled nurses to benefit from new round of scholarships
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or those seeking a rewarding career helping others, nursing may just tick all the right boxes. NSW Health is offering an opportunity to contribute to the positive health outcomes of patients at public hospitals across the state through enrolled nurse scholarships with guaranteed employment. The 2022 Enrolled Nurse Scholarship program is now open for application and will cover the cost of course fees for the Diploma of Nursing. The scholarships not only include a position in the Diploma of Nursing program but also guarantee employment as an enrolled nurse in a NSW Health facility following the successful completion of the diploma and standard recruitment and registration. Jacqui Cross, NSW Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, said there
were placements available at 24 campuses across the state, including six in Sydney and 18 across regional Local Health Districts. “We are encouraging anyone who wishes to work as an enrolled nurse and seeks a meaningful and rewarding
career in a public hospital to apply,” Ms Cross said. “Nurses across the state, and across the health care network, provide essential frontline care to people in hospital and, in many ways, are a source of comfort to their patients.
“Our enrolled nurses will have the opportunity to work across a variety of NSW Health clinical settings, including in acute medical and surgical units, operating theatres and mental health, enabling them to care for patients when they need it most.” Applications open Tuesday 11th January 2022. To be eligible for an enrolled nurse scholarship, applicants must: • Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident • Live in NSW • Meet English language skill standards • Provide evidence of HSC completion, Certificate III qualification or equivalent. For more information around all available nursing scholarships and eligibility, visit: www.health.nsw. gov.au/nursing/scholarship/Pages/ default.aspx
Rent relief extended for small businesses
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mall businesses that are continuing to face challenges due to COVID-19 will benefit from an additional two months of rent relief, with the NSW Government extending its rent relief regulation until March 13. Treasurer Matt Kean said it was a difficult time for many businesses and this extension will provide much-needed support for small commercial and retail tenants to keep their doors open over the coming weeks and months. “Small business is the engine room of our economy and we need to make sure we support impacted businesses through this latest Omicron wave,” Mr Kean said. “With staff shortages and reduced foot traffic, many businesses are struggling at the moment but the ability to negotiate rent will give them a buffer so they can keep the lights on now and recover more quickly.”
“We appreciate and acknowledge the constructive approach of commercial owners in working together with their tenants in these very challenging circumstances.” Minister for Small Business Eleni Petinos said eligibility for rent relief would remain unchanged. “We know that rent is one of the biggest fixed costs for small businesses and this measure will provide crucial support helping them get through the next couple of months,” Ms Petinos said. Commercial and retail tenants will be eligible for the rent relief if they have an annual turnover of less than $5 million and continue to meet the eligibility criteria for JobSaver or the Micro-business Grant, had those programs continued. Landlords of tenants that have received protections for any period under the Retail and Other Commercial Leases (COVID-19) Regulation 2022 are prohibited from evicting their tenants for certain breaches of the
lease, without first attending mediation. NSW landowners will also have more time now to apply for land tax relief, with applications extended until 28 February for eligible commercial and residential landowners. Eligible landlords can access the Commercial Landlord Hardship Fund, which provides small commercial or retail landlords with a monthly grant up to the value of any rental relief provided, to a maximum of $3,000 per month per property. To find out more about land tax relief: https:// www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-covid19-land-tax-relief To find out more about the Commercial Landlord Hardship Fund: www.service.nsw.gov.au/ commercial-landlord-hardship-fund-guidelines For more on the rent relief extension, go to: Commercial leases and COVID-19 FAQs | Small Business Commissioner (nsw.gov.au)
CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Normally found at the start of paragraphs (7) 5 Portrays (7) 9 Reluctance (9) 10 Mistake (5) 11 Weirdos (7) 12 Masts, spars and sails (7) 13 Churchgoing (9) 15 Twice thirty (5) 17 Stuffed bear (5) 19 Girds (9) 22 Disinherits (7) 25 Something to be imitated (7) 26 Fifty-eight in Roman numerals (5)
27 Vest (9) 28 Failed to fulfill a promise (7) 29 Female deity (7) down 1 Asthma medication dispenser (7) 2 Pillaged (9) 3 Zilch (7) 4 A sedimentary rock (9) 5 Washer and _____ (5) 6 Solemn promises (7) 7 Breed of dog (5) 8 Jagged (7) 14 Loathsome (9) 16 Marimba (9) 17 Infant (7)
solution 7/1/22
18 20 21 23 24
Caterwauling (7) Responded (7) Detectives (7) Heir (5) Cut wood (5)
Western News
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Omicron more likely to delay economic recovery, time to review your home loan
he impacts of the Omicron variant are already being felt, but experts expect economies like Australia’s to pull through new headwinds. According to a report by the Blackrock Investment Institute, “the Omicron strain appears less severe in populations with high vaccination and immunity rates”. The spread of Omicron is likely to delay economic recovery rather than derail the restarting of regular economic activity across the world. The successes of vaccine programs have shown the predicted surge in cases but a “more muted rise in hospitalisation”. There is expectation the RBA will increase the Cash rate in late 2022, keeping real interest rates historically low however the increase in the cost of food and goods, issues with Chinese markets increasing inflation could lead to possible housing affordability issues. Many Australians are experiencing financial hardship through job loss, a reduction in work
hours, or business disruption, an increasing number of people may be struggling to balance their books as a result of the Coronavirus, and in many cases are wondering how they will continue to pay the bills. If you are concerned about servicing your loan, reach out to your local mortgage broker or financial advisor for help. If saving money on your home loan in 2022 is what you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place. Wealthwiz can assist by having a close look at your current financial circumstances and is ready to lend a helping hand. Discovering a great value home loan could mean the difference between tens of thousands of dollars saved in interest over the course of your loan, but in practice it can be hard to find the best option amongst the dozens of different lenders and rates on the market. We can identify the best value home loan options for borrowers. There are lenders currently offering mortgage customers – especially those who are refinancing – cash back for moving their home loan @wealthwiz
over, discounting Risk Fees and reduced LMI costs and reducing the minimum deposit amount to 15% from 20% without LMI. Reviewing your current financial situation is important and should be done annually. Refinancing is certainly not as difficult as it used to be and Wealthwiz can guide you through the entire loan process. We do all the work for you and are here to save you money whilst providing you with the important details on each lender, so you can be confident in your selection. To get a better understanding contact Alex at Wealthwiz for a free home loan review on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au. Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional fax or financial advice. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. For information about whether a loan may be suitable for you, call us on 0419 600 177.
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13 Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
Alex Soncini
REAL ESTATE
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
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Western News
SPORT
Carruthers late rush earns high reward By Noel Rowsell
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he 2022 Harvey Norman A.C.T. Week of Golf was co-sponsored by Taylormade Golf and it proved to be a tournament tailor-made for the outstanding Australian and NSW Junior Champion Jeffrey Guan (The Australian GC), who led from start to finish to claim the Boys’ Division by a staggering 17shot margin. Guan’s opening round of 6-under 66 set a benchmark which ultimately proved out of reach for all, in what must be emphasised was a tremendously high-quality field. The maximum handicap limit was set at 2.2 but even when many of the male players were on plus handicaps, Guan once again stood head and shoulders above his opposition on a +5 handicap. The best performance from the small but talented group of western Sydney golfers would be the everconsistent Coby Carruthers, who lives in Jordan Springs and is a member of both Dunheved and Concord GC’s. Carruthers had a start to forget in the opening two days, shooting 76 and 75 to be back in a tie for 11th, 14 shots behind Guan. Two high-quality final rounds of 69 / 69 would elevate
Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Dunheved GC / Concord GC) in action during December 2021. File photo by Noel Rowsell
Carruthers past all but one of his rivals (that being Guan) into 2nd spot on a score of 289. Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge GC) was in 2nd spot after the completion of Day 2 and was always in the top 5 over the 4 days, eventually finishing in 5th spot on a score of 294. Guan, Carruthers and Webber would also finish 1st, 2nd and 5th respectively in the 16/17 Years Boys age group. Tyler Nesci (a Leonay resident and member of Concord GC) also looked in contention for a Top 5 finish early in the week, before fading slightly to finish tied for 11th, whilst Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished in a tie for 38th. In the Girls Division, Grace Lee (a Glenmore Park resident / member of Concord GC) grabbed the initiative on Day One, shooting a 1-under par 71 to hold a share of the lead with Ella Scaysbrook (The Australian). Lee would struggle on Day 2, shooting a disastrous 13-over par 85 to drop back to 9th spot. She would however show plenty of character to shoot good rounds of 73 / 75 on the final two days to move back up into 7th spot overall and 4th in her 16/17 Years Girls age group. Sarah Hammet (Emerald Lakes GC) would ultimately take out the Girls title with a score of 291.
Wanderers and Reliant Healthcare launch Football Inclusion Program
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estern Sydney Wanderers FC, Supported By The Wanderers Foundation And Reliant Healthcare, Are Proud To Launch A New Inclusive Football Program. The FREE program which will run in 10-week blocks during the school term has been designed to encourage participants aged between 5-12 to get involved with football and feel part of a team. Open Gala Days will be held for each quarterly block of the School Holidays where participants on a first in first serve basis will be transitioned into the weekly program. To register for the first Gala Day on 27 January 2022 contact the Wanderers at www.wswanderersfc.com.au. Reliant Healthcare provide multiple services all over New South Wales including personal care, NDIS services, companion care and daily activities, dementia, disability, nursing, palliative, respite and live-in care.
Together with the Wanderers Foundation, Reliant Healthcare will be supporting the program for its entirety through providing the opportunity for participants to play football for free every week as well as be supported by leading Wanderers Academy coaches and carers. Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said he was proud to be launching the inclusion program with Reliant Healthcare. “The Wanderers pride themselves on being an
inclusive and open club, and we are honoured to be working with Reliant Healthcare in establishing the Football Inclusive Program that will be hosted at Wanderers Football Park,” said Tsatsimas. “We hope that this is the start of many more inclusive programs at the club that make a difference to the Western Sydney community. Reliant Healthcare General Manager Susan Tredenick said she was delighted to be making an impact in the community. “We are thrilled to partner with the Wanderers and support their foundation,” said Tredenick. “The partnership is extremely important to Reliant Healthcare as it enables us to give back to the community and give people of all abilities an opportunity to participate in and enjoy the beautiful game of football.” The Open Gala Day to find participants for Term 1 of the program will be held at Wanderers Football Park on 27 January 2022 between 3:30 – 5:30pm.
Waratah Showjumping opens the calendar at SIEC
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Action from the Waratah Showjumping at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre. Photos by Noel Rowsell
he Waratah Showjumping Inc. 3-day event opened the calendar at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC) over the 15th-17th January. Staged over 2 arenas on all three days, the event was heavily promoted on Facebook with regular updates over all 3 days. With the Australian Championships approaching
rapidly in February, Edwena Mitchell organised the January Waratah Showjumping event to provide a good hit-out for the competitors headed for the national event. The prestigious Chatham Park 1.50m Grand Prix was held on Saturday and attracted a strong field of 14 riders, who are all going to the national championships in February.
All of the main competitions were held on both Saturday and Sunday, with Monday provided as a quiet, relaxing day with less pressure on both riders and horses. For a full analysis of events and results, the link to Waratah Results on Facebook is www.facebook. com/Waratah-Showjumping-496768987335799
Western News
SPORT
By Bob Turner
2022 is a big year for Blacktown City FC with the launch of its first ever Senior Women’s team, construction of new $1m change rooms under the main grandstand thanks to the NSW Government, and of course full operational control of their home Stadium, ‘Blacktown City Sports Centre’. Blacktown City takes pride in its facility, the city it represents and will continue to build its stadium into one of the best in the country! The recent change to the configuration of the seating in the main grandstand seating says it all and makes it clear as to who they are and who they represent. Thanks should be given to a number of first grade players for their time and drill guns in support of the club, in particular the O’Brien boys, goal keeper, Tristan Prendergrast and Young Robbo. They were led by the coordination of Head Coach Mark Crittenden, Director of Operations Steve Crawhall, Coach Matthew Bingley and Scott Robbo. The transformation was a true team effort. The home Stadium on Quinn Avenue in Seven Hills, is regarded as one of the best football grounds in Sydney. Painting of its ‘Stadium’ commences in the next few weeks and building of the change rooms is scheduled to be completed by November this year. The improvements to the change rooms are possible through the NSW Office of Sport and the NSW Government’s ‘Greater Cities Sports Facilities Fund’. The announcement by Mark Taylor, State Member for Seven Hills, prior to Christmas was the best Christmas present Blacktown City FC could have received, especially since new amenities has been on the wish list of the club since the grandstand was erected over 20 years ago. The successful application for new changerooms will provide a huge boost in the development and recruitment of female players with a goal to elevate the women’s programme to equal NPL1 Men’s status within three years. The club is now in search of a new Naming Rights partner for the stadium to replace what has been known as ‘Lily Homes Stadium’. After taking full operational control of their Stadium in Seven Hills late last year, the club renamed the facility “Blacktown City Sports Centre” with a view to expand the offerings of the facility to a multi-functional and multi-cultural location! Bookings for casual hire, tournaments and competitions have already increased and the successful grant application will now increase demand for the facility. Anyone wanting to book
the all-purpose field please enquire at Enquiries@ blacktowncitysportscentre.com.au To capitalise on the infrastructure, on field performance is crucial and Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, has been assembling a team that in 2021 was in line to take out the Men’s NPL competition. Leading the charge will once again be Captain Matt Lewis and Tristan Prendergrast, regarded as one of the best goal keepers in the competition with A League experience. Coach Crittenden has already recruited former Blacktown City Striker, Mitch Mallia, and Jordan Smylie from the Central Coast Mariners and Jake Trew from the West Sydney Wanderers. Jordan and Jake are both 21 and ready to enthusiastically play major minutes for Blacktown. Mitchell is rejuvenated to be back at Blacktown and has already demonstrated both his talent and leadership that will be vital for the coming season. Newly appointed Head of Women’s Football,
David O’Keefe, has a history with Blacktown City and a proven record in development which is why Head of Football, Mark Crittnden, made the appointment. Coach O’Keefe has been quietly putting together a solid group that will be young but set the foundations for the main goal to play in the NSW NPL1 Women’s competition in the next few years. Season launch for both Senior teams is scheduled for Thursday, February 17th. As a special bonus, Blacktown City FC has just become a Diamond Member of the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber and to launch their membership and host Chamber members, the 17th will include a ‘Business After 5’ event for the Chamber. The goal is a full house on March 6th to open the 2022 NSW NPL 1 Men’s season. The theme for the year is “Bring it Home Blacktown” and the club is steadily building on its reputation and credibility. Go Blacktown City!
Season 2022 coming soon
Western News 21 January 2022 Issue 153
Bring it home Blacktown!
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Western News Friday, 21 January 2022
SPORT
Young golfers busy week of action By Noel Rowsell
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ourteen young golfers from western Sydney and the Blue Mountains competed in the 2022 Harvey Norman Sydney Week of Golf last week, which was co-sponsored by Taylormade Golf. This event is one of the world’s only 90-hole, 5-day tournaments and attracts many young golfers hoping to gain invaluable tournament experience. 280 players faced the starter, playing at 5 different suburban golf courses over the week, beginning at Cabramatta on Monday, Liverpool on Tuesday, Brighton Lakes on Wednesday, Cumberland on Thursday and finishing at Muirfield on Friday. Dunheved youngster Coby Carruthers and Stonecutters Ridge junior Kade Webber both looked possible winners mid-week but did not put their best game on show on day 4, slipping down the leaderboard. Coby recovered to eventually finish in 4th spot overall and 3rd in the
Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished 3rd Scratch and 1st Nett in her age division at the Harvey Norman Sydney Week of Golf - file photo by Noel Rowsell
16/17 Boys Age division, whilst Kade finished 7th overall and 5th in the 16/17 Boys Age division. The next best were Blake Hodges (Dunheved) and Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge) who finished in a tie in 15th position overall and tied for 4th in the 14/15 Years Boys Age division. The best finish in the Girls overall results was Sayaka Iwatani (Twin Creeks CC) in 8th spot, whilst Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge) finished 3rd in the Scratch results in the 12/13 Year Girls Age division and 1st in Nett. The full list of local players in the event is: Stonecutters Ridge GC Annoushka Maikap, Kade Webber, Ryan Cadle, Joanna Lee, Darcy Mackay, Jackson Northey; Dunheved GC / New South Wales GC - Blake Hodges; Dunheved GC / Concord GC – Coby Carruthers; Penrith GC – Riley Cleminson, Brent Gadd; Twin Creeks CC – Sayaka Iwatani; Wallacia CC – Noah Reitsma; Wentworth Falls CC – Harry Daniels; Concord GC – Tyler Nesci (Leonay).