THE NSW Government’s Independent Toll Review led by Professor Allan Fels AO is engaging the public in its task to recommend a simpler, fairer and more efficient tolling system for Sydney. A hearing was held at Penrith RSL with submissions from the TWU, Blacktown Council, WSROC and members of the public.
Professor Fels and his deputy Dr David Cousins AM have provided the public with a snapshot of where work by Treasury and Transport for NSW was up to upon their appointment.
The snapshot provides a number of reform options, including an entry charge to the CBD – commonly known as a congestion tax in other international cities.
Another option is to consider extending the Sydney motorway network by placing tolls on previously untolled roads to create a larger, continuous network.
The NSW Government is ruling out both options, as both are contrary to Labor’s election commitments.
Roads Minister John Graham said neither option fitted the Government’s pledge to end the era of “toll mania” and take financial pressure off households and businesses that have felt the brunt of toll inflation in recent years.
The Fels Inquiry will benefit from the considerable and detailed work done by Treasury and Transport and build on that over the coming months
into 2024. Options canvassed include network pricing that would involve an access charge and a distance based charge, with all motorways moving to a common pricing structure.
A variant to this is a geographic motorway zone system. Time of day pricing, with lower off-peak charges, is another option, including providing discounts to heavy vehicles
to encourage the movement of freight outside of peak hours.
The Fels Review will publicly release its final report next year with the government to consider its recommendations.
The NSW Government is set to introduce a $60 toll cap scheme for household motorists, and a reduction in the truck toll multiplier for heavy
vehicles on the M5 East and M8 corridors from the start of next year, for two years.
“Toll mania is a thing of the past which is why I need to be very clear and say the NSW Government will not support any recommendations to place tolls on previously untolled roads and there will be no charge to drive into the Sydney CBD, as we promised in the election,” Minister Graham said:
“The previous Coalition government did not release the tolling options that were being considered by them but we believe this snapshot of work will help Professor Fels and Dr Cousins as they move to the next stage of their Review and engage the public on creating a simpler and more equitable toll network.
“Our tolling system is broken. There are fixed charges, distance charges, mixed access and distance-based tolls, amongst other things. This needs to be sorted out and this government is doing exactly that.”
Professor Allan Fels AO said he needed to acknowledge the extensive work already done in this space however much more consideration and consultation is needed to create conditions for real reform.
“It is so important we hear from the public and other key stakeholders and I look forward to speaking with many face-to-face,” Professor Fels said.
“Different tolls have been negotiated at different times under different circumstances and have resulted in an inconsistent jigsaw and this is only one of the issues we want to look at in this review.”
NEW research findings from Western Sydney University have revealed the low nutritional quality of many popular baby food squeeze pouches.
Published in the journal, BMC Public Health, University researchers analysed 276 Australian baby food pouches from 15 manufacturers. They assessed the baby food pouches for nutritional content, texture, serving size and packaging labelling to determine a Nutrition Profile Index (NPI) score, which was then compared to the Australian Infant Feeding Guidelines.
Squeeze pouches, also known as spout pouches or pouch-and-spout packaging, are a plastic baby food sachet or pouch with a mushroom-style cap containing pureed foods, enabling children to consume wet ready-to-use food directly from the packet.
Lead researcher Dr Catharine Fleming, from the University’s School of Health Sciences and Translational Health Research Institute, said the research found that a high proportion of squeeze pouch products available in Australia do not contain adequate nutrients, are high in sugar and not fortified with iron.
“The findings revealed that only two of the 276
products tested had an adequate level of nutrients. 59 per cent of pouches also claimed to have ‘no sugar added’, despite the addition of free sugars,” said Dr Fleming.
“The sweet flavour profiles present in the squeeze pouches particularly promote the ongoing acceptance of foods rich in free sugars. We know that sugar consumption is a health concern and can contribute to diet-related chronic disease developing later in childhood and adulthood.”
Emerging onto the market in 2012, ready-to-use squeeze pouches are often marketed as a convenient option for time-poor parents seeking what they perceive to be healthy food for their child.
“Parents are potentially unaware of the pouches’ true nutritional value, particularly as they are often marketed as a ‘whole’ meal,” explained Dr Fleming.
“They are often promoted as providing a large portion of a child’s daily nutritional intake despite being an inadequate source of nutrients when used regularly and solely.”
Dr Fleming said that during an infant’s complementary feeding period (6-24 months) it is vital that foods are both age appropriate and
nutritious, with a particular focus on macronutrients and micronutrients to promote growth and cognitive development. Essential nutrients include iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin B6.
“This developmental period establishes longterm dietary intake patterns for a child and lays the foundations for nutrition and feeding practices for life. It is well understood that highly processed foods with high amounts of sugars, salt and fats are a risk factor for non-communicable diseases,” said Dr Fleming.
After a decade in the market, the researchers recommend a review of baby food pouches by industry stakeholders, suggesting greater regulation for production composition, serving sizes and labelling.
She said the best advice for parents is to introduce a variety of nutritionally rich foods with fresh food options being the most supportive of overall health. For more information, download and read, The big squeeze: a product content and labelling analysis of ready-to-use complementary infant food pouches in Australia, at https://bmcpublichealth. biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-02315492-3
BLACKTOWN City Council is light years ahead on a program that is retrofitting local street lights with LED lighting components.
Blacktown City Council is working with Endeavour Energy to create both environmental and financial benefits for Blacktown City.
The changing of street lamps by Endeavour Energy will reduce carbon emissions by 9,445 tonnes per year and Blacktown City Council will save around $2.2 million per year on its street lighting electricity bill.
9445 tonnes of carbon emissions per year is the equivalent to the carbon produced by an average car travelling 38,966,594 kilometres. (source epa.gov)
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “By September of 2023, Endeavour Energy will have retrofitted 30,348 Blacktown City street lights to LED. As of July, the job is around 94% complete.”
“In Western Sydney, Blacktown City is completing
one of the largest residential street light upgrade programs in Australia,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
LED streetlights are replacing older, less efficient ‘mercury vapour’ lamps, they are up to 80 per cent more energy efficient. LED street lights use less electricity and are brighter than the old lamps. Residential streets, main roads, pedestrian crossings and pathways are still safe.
The new lamps are also more reliable, have a 20year lifespan and have lower maintenance costs which reduce Council’s maintenance costs by 52%.
In new growth areas, in
IT’S oh-fish-al – the muchloved Blacktown City Family Fish In is back for 2023. Bring your rod, line and bait to Mount Druitt Swimming Centre when it is turned into a fisher’s paradise over 2 weekends this August.
Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at the perfect catch, with 600 Snowy Mountains trout released into the pool for the annual family event.
suburbs like Marsden Park, Riverstone and Schofields, developers are being required to install LED street lighting.
Andrew Pitman, General Manager Business Services at Endeavour Energy congratulated Blacktown City Council on its participation in the program saying the new LED technology will result in direct benefits for the community.
“By switching to LED streetlights, we are able to provide more efficient and sustainable public lighting resulting in both environment and financial benefits for the Blacktown community,” Mr Pitman said.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said: “The Fish In has been a family favourite in Blacktown City for more than 30 years and is guaranteed to be a great night out for anglers young and old.
“This unique event has hooked families from all over Sydney and is a great chance for the kids to try their hand at fishing for the first time. Sessions book out every year, so be sure to get in fast and secure your spot for a great evening of fishing fun.”
The Fish In will take place over the weekends of 4-5 and 11-12 of August. The pool will be divided into a minimum of 50 fishing stations, with hour-long sessions available each night at 5pm, 6.20pm and 7.40pm. Cost is $20.50 per station plus booking fee.
Participants must supply their own fishing equipment including rods, fishing line and bait. Bait is also available for purchase at the event for $4 per pack. Only one fishing line is permitted per fishing station and there is a limit of 4 fish per person. This event is proceeding under a permit from NSW Department of Primary Industries.
Book your spot at Council’s website: blacktown. nsw.gov.au/Events-and-activities/2023-BlacktownCity-Family-Fish-In
Seven Hills/Toongabbie/Wentworthville RSL Sub-Branch
On behalf of the Seven Hills Toongabbie Wentworthville RSL Sub-Branch we would like to invite all Veterans to our Veteran’s Day Commemoration Service at the Seven Hills RSL, on the 15th of August 2023 The Service will commence at 11am.
We will be commemorating the 50th anniversary of the then Governor-General Sir Paul Hasluck proclaiming an end to Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam, over 3,000 wounded and 523 gave their lives in the longest conflict Australians were involved in during the 20th Century.
The Service will involve the laying of wreaths as a sign of respect. If you wish to lay a wreath at the base of our cenotaph, please contact Graham Larkham by either email graham28@aussiebb.com.au or phone 0418 247 831.
At the conclusion of the Service you are invited to attend the Club for a Luncheon.
THIS week I would like to congratulate the NSW Police Force on Operation Amarok III which specifically targeted the worst domestic violence offenders both locally and across the state. There is no denying that the rate of domestic violence incidences in NSW is a disgrace.
There are more than 139,000 calls for police assistance and over 33,000 actual domestic-related assaults every year. That’s before we even look at how many victims are seriously injured or killed at the hands of their partner. The blitz last week managed to reel in many offenders with previous DV form, and make them face the music.
Here’s a snapshot of what was achieved:
Police said almost 600 people, including some of the state’s most dangerous domestic violence offenders, have been charged with serious offences during a fourday high-impact operation across NSW.
Operation Amarok III, an intelligence-based policing strategy led by each region’s Domestic Violence High-Risk Offender Teams (DVHROT), ran from Wednesday 12 July to Saturday 15 July and involved officers from all police area commands and police districts in NSW, as well as various proactive and specialist units.
During the operation, 592 people were arrested, and in addition to domestic violence-related offences, various other serious offences were detected, including prohibited firearm and weapon possession, drug possession and supply, with a total of 1107 charges laid.
Of those arrested, 139 were identified amongst NSW’s most dangerous domestic violence offenders and 103 had outstanding warrants for violent offences.
Over the four days, police engaged with high-risk domestic violence offenders on 1169 occasions, made 315 applications for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs), served 500 outstanding ADVOs, completed 4882 ADVO compliance checks and 1465 bail compliance checks.
Officers also conducted 116 Firearms Prohibition Orders (FPOs) searches at properties linked to those who are subject to FPOs.
In total, police seized 22 firearms and 40 prohibited weapons, as well as various types of illicit drugs located with 89 detections.
Operation Amarok sends a strong message to offenders that they’re in the sights of police.
“You’ve been warned. Your predatory behaviour will be policed to your door.”
Let’s just hope our court system follows through on the great work of the police in bringing these offenders to justice.
BY KERRIE DAVIES
STATE member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla, has announced TAFE NSW local enrolments are now open, supporting new opportunities for locals to gain skills in information technology, automotive, and healthcare.
“We’ve seen massive growth in Sydney’s Greater West over the last five years across key industries, with the region’s professional, scientific, and technical services sector growing by 21,000 workers alone,” Mr Atalla said.
“TAFE NSW is the top training body in our state, and qualifications from TAFE NSW are a game changer for school leavers, job seekers, people looking to upskill and those wanting to start new businesses and careers.
“The Minns Labor Government is dedicated to rebuilding TAFE NSW – starting by supporting locals to take up training opportunities at their local campuses.
“We’ve seen massive growth in demand across key industries, now is the time for locals to seize opportunities, with TAFE NSW delivering in demand skills training through courses in Information Technology, Automotive
Electrical Technology, and Mental Health.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Tim Crakanthorp said the Minns Government was committed to helping every person in New South Wales build the skills they need in the modern economy.
“TAFE NSW has hundreds of courses to choose from across a range of modern industries to help you gain a nationally recognised qualification in your area of interest,” Minister Crakanthorp said.
“With Semester 2 about to commence, there’s never been a better time to discover the range of opportunities at your local TAFE NSW campus. This includes the different study options to suit your needs, such as online and face-to-face study.”
TAFE NSW Mount Druitt features transport and logistics training facilities, hair and beauty training salons, and a student-run restaurant.
TIFFANY and Victoria Aoun are 23-year-old twins who have been working at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) since June last year.
The identical twin nurses joined the district as part of the GradStart program, and both currently work at Westmead Hospital; Tiffany in the radiology department and Victoria in the vascular ward.
Working in these different wards is the furthest apart that they have been, as they share the same friends, studied together and live together – even though they both work at the same facility.
“We were in the same school and university classes, so this is a bit of an adjustment period,” Victoria said.
Victoria and Tiffany are currently on the second rotation of their program, and are both passionate about pursuing careers in the health sector.
The sisters decided to pursue a nursing career after high school as they both have a passion for helping people.
Wherever the twins go, confusion
follows as they encounter each other’s patients and colleagues and are confused for one another at least two to three times a day.
“We’re so used to it and it makes us smile,” Victoria said.
Tiffany often encounters the same confusion from patients, especially when running into families and colleagues in the corridor.
“I have random nurses and porters waving at me, as well as patients and their families,” she said.
“They always have the same reaction when they find out I’m a twin and that she works here too – they’re shocked and then they laugh.”
For Tiffany and Victoria, their passion and dedication to their
Do you want to be a part of the fun and excitement of the Seven Hills Festival? Blacktown City Council is looking for passionate local residents to join the Seven Hills Festival Committee.
Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said residents and local business owners were encouraged to register their interest to be a part of the colourful community celebration in 2024.
“The Seven Hills Festival will return for a third year in 2024, and Council is looking for
volunteers to help make the festival a success once again,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Joining the festival committee is a great way to meet new people, gain organisational and event management skills and give back to the community.
“The festival is a wonderful celebration of the diverse and thriving community and is a great showcase of community spirit in Seven Hills.”
To register your interest, email: events.team@ blacktown.nsw.gov.au or call 5300 6000.
patients is clear by the way they both speak about coming to work at Westmead Hospital and how they both describe their careers so far as the most gratifying, rewarding jobs they could ever imagine.
“My first placement was in the geriatrics ward, which I absolutely loved,” said Tiffany.
“ “
“I just love my time at the hospital.”
Sometimes Tiff’s patients will come up to me and give me a hug and say, “thank you so much for all your help”! “
ABLINK then darkness. That split-second began 16-year-old Tyler’s journey with an ultra-rare brain tumour known as Parasellar Ganglioma. He is one of just 10 known cases in the world.
Shortly after his birthday in July 2022, Tyler came home from school, sat on the couch, and suddenly lost his vision. He had been suffering from migraines with vomiting and visual aura, prompting his doctor to order an MRI scan with the results coming a few days later.
Tyler and his mum, Kylie, then heard those devastating words. He had a six-centimetre tumour in his brain.
“I will never forget the day our doctor said she had bad news. We were lost for words,” Kylie said.
“We were told to immediately bring him into Westmead Hospital. So, we went home, packed a bag and off we went.”
The MRI scan showed a type of brain tumour with hydrocephalus, a condition where there is a buildup of fluid in the cavities deep within the brain due to the growth blocking its normal movement.
Within a week of admission Tyler went into surgery, led by neurosurgeon Dr Jun Kim at Westmead Hospital, where doctors discovered the tumour was growing out of the optic nerve.
The team called on the expertise of their colleagues, including Paediatric Oncologist Prof Stewart Kellie from The Children’s Hospital at Westmead (CHW), for further specialist input.
Together, they decided to remove as much of the tumour as they could and took tissue for laboratory examination. The results of the biopsy were better than they could have hoped for.
“Thank goodness, the tumour was low-grade,” Kylie said.
Tyler was diagnosed with a rare tumour called Parasellar Ganglioma, or ‘Timmy’ as he named it.
“Gangliogliomas are relatively mature tumours that typically don’t behave like brain cancer and often surgical resection is the only treatment option required,” Dr Kellie said.
This type of tumour is usually found in children aged five to seven years old but in Tyler’s case it was slow growing, so most of his symptoms hadn’t presented until much later in life.
“It is kind of like a big math equation, it just explained a lot of things that happened to me as a kid,” Tyler said.
“
A week following surgery, a shunt was inserted into the fluid-filled cavity to help relieve pressure on Tyler’s brain. He was in hospital for just over a month and had to relearn how to walk, talk, and do things for himself again with the help from Westmead’s physiotherapy and occupational therapy teams.
He now sees a multidisciplinary team of specialists on a regular basis at CHW, including neurology, the Eye Clinic, the Endocrine Clinic, occupational therapy and is set to start physiotherapy.
Tyler’s biggest challenge is managing his vision as he lost all sight in his left eye and has difficulties with peripheral vision in his right. It has impacted his studies, ability to play his beloved sport of soccer, managing staircases, and he will never be able to drive a car.
But through it all, his optimistic nature shines through.
“He’s excited for his future and wants to pursue a career in paediatric occupational therapy. So far, he’s doing so well and hasn’t fallen behind at school which is fantastic. Although he won’t be able to play soccer at this stage, he’s looking into the possibility of finding a parasport that interests him, so never say never.”
Tyler’s journey has inspired him in many ways, so much so that he hopes to become an inspirational speaker, sharing his story to help other children and adolescents in hospital.
Western Sydney Wanderers FC have confirmed the partnership extension of Co-Major partner Voltaren for the next two seasons.
Voltaren has been a proud partner of the Red & Black since 2020 with the extension now taking the partnership to five years.
As Co-Major, Voltaren will continue to be on the front of the club’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s home jersey which is set to be unveiled with new partner Adidas on Friday
21 July 2023.
Voltaren is Australia’s leading topical pain relief brand and exists to restore the joy of pain free movement.
Western Sydney Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson said he was proud to continue the relationship with Voltaren.
“We are delighted that Voltaren has signed on for an additional two seasons and we look forward to continuing to build on our relationship,” said Hudson.
“Voltaren has been a fantastic champion not only for the team on the field, but also the work we do in the Western Sydney community.
“We thank them for their ongoing loyalty to the club as we prepare for another big season.”
Voltaren ANZ Senior Marketing Lead Joseph Mehdawi said he was delighted to create more unforgettable moments with the Red & Black.
“Voltaren is delighted to re-sign as Co-Major sponsor of the Western
Sydney Wanderers Football Club and is proud to support the Wanderers and their dedicated fans. We look forward to creating many unforgettable moments together and empowering athletes to perform at their best,” said Mehdawi.
“Voltaren is all about restoring the joy of pain free movement in all Australians with a focus on motivation and inclusion. We hope to embody the community spirit that the Wanderers prides itself on.”
I’m still in a state of shock in I can’t believe it was hidden for all those years, it is quite fascinating to me. With this whole experience, I look back on it and think ‘wow’ - it is truly quite amazing how it has evolved over time compared to what others can do.
“
Tyler is an extremely positive person, especially for someone that has endured what he has been and continues to go through. He lives his life as best he can and tries to not let any of it get him down, I couldn’t be prouder of him, Kylie said.
NICOLE Howard and Jasmine James-Howard could be easily mistaken for friends or sisters, but this duo is one of Western Sydney Local Health District’s (WSLHD) amazing sets of mothers and daughters working together.
Nicole is an executive support officer and has been with the district for five years, transitioning through recruitment and clinical governance roles before settling into her current role in the General Manager’s Unit at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
Jasmine was influenced by her mother’s work in the district and started working at WSLHD two years ago. They have even shared time
working in the General Manager’s office together.
“It’s nice to have someone you know around,” Jasmine said.
The western Sydney locals were all laughs, reflecting on their shared lunch breaks while enjoying the sun.
Jasmine is now an executive assistant for the Clinical Network, Surgery and Surgery Specialties, but the two make time to catch-up during the day.
“We used to take our breaks together,
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Museum of Fire in Penrith regularly takes its beautifully restored vehicles out to different fire stations around the Metropolitan Area, exposing the Vintage vehicles to an ever-broadening and appreciative audience. The Museum was in Blacktown on Saturday 1st July, showcasing a number of vehicles at the local Fire Station.
The second event from that weekend was the Museum’s Winter Family Heritage Day, which was an onsite event in Penrith.
The Leura Fire Brigade put on their kitchen fire display. Also on show was the Fire and Rescue Band, the Historic Fire Engines Association (HFEA) with a historic demonstration, along with fire engine rides and historic vehicles on display.
The Museum’s next family day in Penrith is the Spring Family Day on 1st October.
and there was one day we were having lunch and fighting over salad dressing. We were attracting attention, and were eventually asked if we were mother and daughter; we hadn’t told anyone at that stage,” Jasmine said.
Jasmine is working toward completing her nursing degree at the end of the year and is excited to continue taking care of the people of western Sydney.
When asked what she’s most passionate about, Jasmine was quick
to answer, “wanting to help people is a big part of it”.
It looks like this mother and daughter will be working together at WSLHD for many years to come, as Jasmine plans to stay at the district when she graduates.
“I’m really enjoying my time working here, and I want to continue to work here after I’ve finished my nursing degree,” she said.
“I don’t see myself working in any other district.”
Her mum Nicole echoed this sentiment saying: “I love working here”.
“The people who work in this hospital genuinely care, and want to make a difference.”
WARM up this winter with Blacktown Arts ‘Winter Music’, an afternoon of live music at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.
Gather the whole family on Saturday 5 August and enjoy a range or energetic performances from 1 pm to 4 pm.
In partnership with Settlement Services International (SSI), Winter Music features music, dance and food that speaks to the diverse communities of Blacktown by a selection of
FOODIE Fridays is a vibrant food market taking place in the Village Green and Civic Plaza.
Host to some of the best food trucks and stalls Sydney has to offer, it is a night out that the whole family will enjoy.
Featuring live music and food truck lane, as well as a dedicated street food and dessert section - there will be plenty of new faces as well as old favourites!
shopping bags for any purchases made at the event.
Free parking is available in the Kmart Carpark and Colo Lane Carpark
Upcoming Dates:
• Friday, 28 July 2023 | 5pm - 9pm
• Friday, 29 September 2023 | 5pm - 9pm
• Friday, 27 October 2023 | 5pm - 9pm
local and newly-arrived artists. For the full artist lineup and tickets, visit https://blacktownarts.com. au/winter-music/
Blacktown Council is committed to ensuring their events are managed with minimal impact on the environment in line with their sustainable events policy. Please remember to bring your reusable
SLEIGH bells will be ringing at The Joan for Christmas in July with the festive sounds of the Lisa Finn Powell Jazz Trio!
Enjoy the sultry tones of American-born British-Aussie (It’s complicated!), Lisa Finn Powell, who has charmed audiences across the US, UK and Australia. She is joined by talented jazz musicians Karl Javernig on guitar and Rob Maxwell-
Jones on clarinet and saxophone, for an evening of jazz favourites and Christmas classics.
Table at The Joan will offering a selection of Christmas tapas and mulled wine to get you in the festive mood.
Friday 28 July, 2023. Doors open from 5pm. Music 5:45-7:30pm. FREE no bookings required. For more details: www. thejoan.com.au/events/christmas-in-july/
ACROSS
1. News coverage (9)
6. Examine physically (5)
9. Wealth (7)
10. Left out (7)
11. Footwear (7)
12. Atomic (7)
13. A loose high-necked blouse (9)
15. Ragout (5)
16. Groups of people (5)
19. Starting (9)
22. Lamentable (7)
23. Compress (7)
25. Japanese warrior (7)
26. Inflammation of the ileum (7)
27. The devil (5)
28. Form into grains (9)
1. Floating logs tied together (5)
2. An associate (7)
3. A plant sometimes used to make pies (7)
4. Concepts (5)
5. A teenager’s punishment (9)
6. Male royalty (7)
7. Porridge (7)
8. Supporting (9)
13. Certain posts in a fence (9)
14. Tagging (9)
17. Try (7)
18. An Old World crocus (7)
20. French for “New” (7)
21. Momentum (7)
23. Brightest star in Virgo (5)
24. Result (5)
JOHAN Frederick Coertzen de Kock a Dutch baronet and Netherlands Army N.C.O died at Nepean District Hospital in July 1946 from a broken neck accidentally received when an army jeep that he was driving came into contact with an electric light pole on the Western Road at St Marys on the same day. The district coroner Mr E F Rule held an inquest at Penrith Court House. The evidence indicated that Johan was trying to avoid a dog on the roadway. Lieutenant Wibo Lans represented the Royal Netherlands Indies Army. Mr Becker represented Johan’s wife. Sergeant Dew said that in response to a telephone message he went to the Great Western Road about 400 yards east of Sydney Street at St Marys where he saw a military jeep over an embankment about 3ft high off the roadway and it was extensively damaged. He said that on the eastern side of the vehicle he saw a man unconscious lying on the ground and in a serious state and wearing a Netherlands Indies Army uniform. About twenty-three yards west of where the vehicle had struck a pole there was a dead dog on the roadway that the jeep would normally have been on. At Nepean District Hospital Johan was identified by Lieutenant Lans who said he was twenty-two years of age and from Holland and at the time of his death he was a member of the Royal Netherlands Indies Army stationed at the North Ryde camp. The Sergeant Dew said that he was of the opinion that from the result of his inquiries and observations at the scene of the accident, Johan was driving the vehicle at not less than 40 mph when he noticed a dog running on the roadway and endeavouring to avoid the dog he swerved the vehicle and collided with the electric light pole. There was no smell of alcohol. Next Nello Chemello said that about 7.50pm he was working in a room at the front of his place on the Western Road when he heard a loud bang and went out to the gate and saw a car on fire a short distance up the road toward St Marys and he immediately went up and saw a jeep hard against a fence and the engine was running and with the assistance of Joseph Cook they put the fire out. He said that when he arrived at the vehicle he saw a man lying on the ground about six feet from the vehicle. The man was unconscious and appeared to be seriously injured and he was at the scene of the accident when the police arrived and helped to render assistance to the injured man. Lieutenant Lans who was attached to the R.N.I. Army at North Ryde said that Johan was a Sergeant attached to the same army unit and arrived in Australia about ten months ago on military duty. Next was Johan’s wife Lady Valerie Rene Coertzen de Kock who was living at No 14 Henrietta Street in Double Bay said she was the wife of Johan Frederick Coertzen de Kock and on 10th July she was staying at the Log Cabin Hotel in Penrith with her husband and on that day her husband left the hotel in a jeep intending to return to the military
camp in North Ryde. He was sober as he very rarely drank any liquor and they had only not long been married. The verdict was accidental death and his body was returned home. Johan was born in April 1924 in Den Helder, Noord-Holland, Netherlands to parents Baronet Hendrik Pieter Coertzen de Kock & Lady Digna Adrienne Van Teijlinger. The Royal Netherlands East Indies Army was the military force maintained by the Kingdom of the Netherlands in its colony of the Dutch East Indies in areas that are now part of Indonesia. Founded in September 1814 and remained active up until 26th July 1950. During early 1942 some personnel escaped to Australia and some indigenous personnel were interned in Australia under suspicion of sympathies with the Japanese. The remainder began a long process of re-grouping. Dutch airmen who escaped to Australia after the Japanese invasion of the Netherlands East Indies were brought together to form Dutch squadrons under the Royal Australian Air Force command. First among these special squadrons was the 18 Squadron, formed at Canberra on 4 April 1942. Although nominally made up of Dutch nationals, the Royal Australian Air Force supplied many co-pilots, air gunners, bombardiers, photographers and ground staff and the United States of America provided supplies and equipment. In late 1942 a failed attempt to land in East Timor to reinforce Australian commandos waging a guerrilla campaign ended with the loss of 60 Dutch personnel. A plaque was placed on the Federal Highway, RAAF Memorial Grove, Majura dedicated to the 2,609 Netherlands East Indies Army, RAAF Flying Units and commemorates the Dutch flying units established in Canberra during WW2. No. 18 Squadron RAAF with B25 Mitchell bombers formed on the 4th of April 1942, No. 120 Squadron RAAF with P40 Kittyhawk fighters flew aircraft types at Fairbairn until the wars end. Operating as Dutch units within the RAAF they flew Dutch owned aircraft and were commanded by Dutch officers partly manned by RAAF personnel and under RAAF operational control and the Personnel and Equipment Pool formed on 1st September 1943. The plaque recognises the commitment of all Dutch and Australian personnel who served in these units and honours those among them who died in the Pacific War. During 194345 the 18 Squadron flew from Batchelor and other northern airfields on reconnaissance, bombing and anti-shipping missions in and around the Timor and Arafura Seas. No. 120 Squadron operated mostly from Merauke in West New Guinea flying air defence, anti-shipping and ground attack missions. Their efforts helped establish vital allied air and maritime superiority in the region but the cost was high with combined losses of 119 men, both Dutch and Australian.
Sources: Nepean Times Thursday 18 July 1946, monumentaustralia. org.au (website), Wikipedia (website), Werelate.org (website).
THE RBA has increased interest rates 12 times since May 2022 and this has hurt borrowers, but some may have increased their pain through misguided loyalty with their current lender.
Home Loan Interest Rates: Loyalty can come at a Higher Cost!
The alarming reality is most often loyal homeowners face higher interest rates on their home loans.
Loyalty to your mortgage lender can have unforeseen consequences on your home loan interest rates. Studies indicate that a significant number of borrowers continue to pay higher rates compared to new customers.
While many homeowners believe they should receive the same rates and deals, the reality is that they often pay as much as an additional 0.41 percentage points, as per data from the Reserve Bank of Australia. It’s important to be aware of these disparities to make informed decisions about your home loan.
Staying loyal to a higher-charging lender can accumulate additional costs over time. Even seemingly small rate
differences can translate into substantial financial burdens. For instance, a modest .25 percent increase can amount to thousands of dollars over the lifespan of a loan. By understanding the long-term impact, you can make better choices to optimize your financial situation and save significant sums of money.
There are strategies to ensure that your loyalty is rewarded and you secure favourable interest rates. Consider the following steps:
• Regularly review your home loan: Periodically assess your home loan and compare it with offerings from other lenders. This empowers you to identify potential opportunities for better interest rates and loan terms.
• Negotiate with your current lender: Don’t hesitate to engage in open discussions with your existing lender. Share your research and express your desire for a more competitive rate. Lenders value long-term customers, and they may be willing to adjust your interest rate to retain your business.
• Explore refinancing options: Refinancing your home loan with a new lender can provide access to
lower interest rates. However, ensure you carefully evaluate the associated costs, including fees and charges, to determine if it aligns with your financial goals.
Loyalty to banks and mortgage lenders may come at a high cost.
By understanding the potential impact of loyalty and exploring strategies in maximising your home loan benefits you can make informed decisions to optimise your finances and achieve your financial goals.
11-year-old Evelyn (Evie) Oram has won the annual Richmond GC Ladies Match Play championship, defeating Diana Clark in the Final.
Evie was selected in the President’s team for the Annual President’s vs Captain’s Match Play and justified her selection, qualifying for the Match Play Championship and winning 5 matches on her way to the title.
Conceding an average 12-13 shots per match was a huge challenge for the youngster, who qualified for the Final with a 4/2 semi-final victory over Leonie Manczac.
Evie shot out to an early 4-hole advantage in the Final, before Diana fought back strongly on the back nine, putting the match on a knife edge over the concluding stages.
Evie prevailed to win 2/1, with the
highlight of her round a birdie on the par 5 fifth hole, where she hit a brilliant pitch shot over a bunker and into the hole. Unfortunately, Evie didn’t get to see the ball drop as the bunker was too high,
blocking her view of the base of the flag.
“It (the birdie) wasn’t a fluke, because she went onto the green and looked where she had to land the ball, and she nailed it,” said proud father Tim.
Evie’s next challenge was the 2023 JNJG 12 Years & Under State Age Championships, held at Lynwood CC over 12th-14th July, where she finished tied 1st for Nett and 3rd in Scratch in the 11-Year-old Girls category.
She was joined in the State Age Championships by twin brother Harrison (Richmond), who finished 15th in Scratch and 17th in Nett (11 Years Boys), recent JNJG U12 Tour winner Hunter McMillan (Twin Creeks), 4th in Scratch & 9th in Nett (10 & Under Boys), Roy Shim (Glenmore Heritage Valley), 18th Scratch and 4th Nett(10 & Under Boys) and Jack Gillett (Stonecutters Ridge), 13th in Scratch & tied 13th in Nett (12 Years Boys).
PENRITH GC hosted Round 2 of Section 4 of the 2023 Eric Apperly Shield Pennant competition, with the host club falling 5.5-0.5 to Cumberland, Bonnie Doon defeating Pymble 4-2 and Richmond falling 6-0 to The Australian (Red).
It was Penrith’s second loss of the season, whilst Richmond could not repeat their first round success against The Australian (Red), which consolidated its position at the top of the competition ladder, alongside Cumberland, with both clubs sitting 2-0. Brielle Mapanao (Quakers Hill) played for The Australian,
recording a powerful 7&6 win.
Cronulla GC hosted Section 5, with Stonecutters Ridge defeating Pennant Hills 3.5-2.5. Harrison Wilde (2&1), Darcy Mackay (4&3) and Michelle Yang (5&3) all had wins, whilst Ryan Cadle had a tie.
Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) and Chayse Thorpe (Richmond) both lost their matches, in Concord Blue’s 4-2 loss to Avondale, Tyler Nesci (Leonay) won and Ti Fox (Richmond) lost in Concord Red’s 3-3 draw with Lakeside Camden, Camilla Kim (Kellyville) won her match in The Australian Blue’s 5.50.5 win over Castle Hill.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
67 golf clubs across NSW will contest the Men’s Super Senior (Over 65) Pennant competition in 2023, including 5 new entries, being Kiama, Bowral, Massey Park, Beverley Park and Horizons.
5 western Sydney clubs have re-entered this year, being Wallacia, Springwood, Penrith, Richmond and Stonecutters Ridge. Glenmore Heritage Valley GC is one of 3 clubs which have dropped out this year, with the other two being Strathfield and Kurri.
The Super Senior Pennant is a mid-week competition and will commence week commencing 24th July, with the regular season finishing on Friday 8th September.
The two highest-placed teams, in each of the 10 non-ranked Divisions, will then play off in the Knockout series to determine the winner of the 2023 Super Senior Pennant title.
In Round 1, Division 3 is being hosted by Wallacia on 26th July, with Springwood taking on Antill Park at 10:00am. Division 4 is being hosted by Castle Hill on 25th July, with Stonecutters Ridge playing Cabramatta at 10:30am, Richmond playing Cumberland at 11:00am and Penrith playing Liverpool at 11:30am.
CHAYSE Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC, NSW) and Camilla Kim (Kellyville / The Australian GC) have both impressed at the 2023 NSW Junior Golf Championships, with Chayse finishing in the Top Ten outright (tied 9th) in the Boys division, and Camilla a runaway winner in the 13 Years Girls division.
Camilla shot scores of 83 (at Byron Bay), 75, 76, 75 (at Ocean Shores) / 309, to finish in a tie for 24th place overall, behind winner and club mate at The Australian, Ella Scaysbrook on 280. Camilla was in a class of her own however in the 13 Girls division, winning by 20 shots, whilst Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished in 8th spot in the 13 Girls division.
At the completion of the tournament, Camilla was awarded Championship trophies as the Girls 13 Years NSW Junior Champion and the JNJG 13 Years State Age Champion. Chayse shot scores of 81 (Byron Bay), 73, 70 and 75 (Ocean Shores) to finish on 299, 11 shots behind winner Taj Egea (Wolston Park GC, QLD).
Matthew Fullerton (Lynwood) finished in a tie for 16th, Ryan Fletcher (Lynwood) tied 30th, Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge) tied 43rd and Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / New South Wales GC) tied 53rd.
Significantly, all seven western Sydney players made the cut in the Boys and Girls divisions respectively. In the Age group results, Chayse finished 3rd in 15 Boys, Matthew 5th and Darcy 11th in 16 Boys, Ryan 14th and Blake 25th in 17 Boys.
The NSW Men’s Premier League is reaching a critical stage with Blacktown still in the Championship chase by picking up their sixth win in a row over Sutherland last Saturday 1-0. League Leaders Apia Leichhardt pulled out a 1-0 win over Central Coast in the same round with a goal in the 89th minute to keep their recent unbeaten run alive and remain on top with 56 points. With only six rounds remaining in the competition, Rockdale (46 points), Marconi (44 points) and Blacktown (43 points) are all in the chase but will rely on Apia to falter.
Blacktown are peaking at the right time of the year but with the 2023 NSW Championship determined by first past the post and no playoffs, Apia is looking the likely winner. Coach Mark Crittenden’s men are determined to take second spot if Apia keeps winning. The 1-0 victory over Sutherland in Round 24 came with the 16th goal of the season for Jak O’Brien. Normally a midfielder, Jak was thrust into the striker role when Blacktown lost strikers Mitch Mallia, Danny Choi and Jordan Smylie in the first two weeks of the season. Jak has relished the upgrade and with 16 goals is second on the Premiership ladder for goals.
Saturday, July 29th will be a huge game for both Blacktown City and Apia Leichhardt as they square off in Round 26 at Apia’s home ground Lambert Park. Game time is 5:45 pm and you can watch live on NPL.TV if you cannot get to the Park.
Round 25 is a special occasion for Blacktown City with a ‘Back to Blacktown’ Homecoming Day scheduled for all former players, coaches, administrators and all affiliated with the club. Blacktown City will host Sydney United 58 FC on Sunday, the 23rd at Landen Stadium. United are coming off a 3-3 draw against second place Rockdale last week. Sydney United are always a tough opposition and with positions on the ladder still to
determine the match will be a beauty! Game time is 3pm with the Under 20’s at 1pm.
To added a special touch, the Board of Blacktown City FC will unveil the Graham Crawhall ‘GC’ Members bar on the day. GC was a ‘Life Member’ of Blacktown City, Manager to Mark Crittenden for over 20 years and last year was awarded the Valentine Medal
for services to Football NSW. Sadly, GC passed away earlier this year and Blacktown City will pay special tribute to one of their most memorable members by unveiling his own Members bar!
Blacktown Women continue to battle and currently are tied for tenth on the ladder with Marconi. Head of Women’s Football, David ‘Dok’ O’Keefe, is gaining valuable experience
for his young side. In only their second year of competition the 1-0 loss to SD Raiders last week is indicative of the improvement Blacktown has gained throughout the season.
Blacktown City FC VS Sydney United 58 FC – Sunday, July 23rd at Landen Stadium, 5 Quinn Ave, Seven Hills. Game time is 3pm! See you There! Go Blacktown City!
Friday, 21 July 2023
BLACKTOWN City has caught World Cup fever – and fans can catch all the action on a big screen in the heart of the Blacktown CBD.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said Council was proud to host a free live site for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 in Warrick Lane.
“Blacktown City is a proud supporter of women’s football and we have a strong association with the Matildas through locals Courtney Nevin and Kyah Simon, who have been named in the World Cup squad,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Warrick Lane will be transformed into World Cup central throughout July and August, and fans will be able to come along, grab a bite to eat from local restaurants and enjoy the games live streamed on the big screen.
“Warrick Lane is the perfect site in the centre of Blacktown to cheer on the Matildas during the World Cup. Bring the family, bring your friends and wear some green and
gold – we’re in for a spectacular month of football.”
Free parking will be available in
site, visit: blacktown.nsw.gov.au/ Events-and-activities/WomensWorld-Cup-Live-Site