Westernnews 22june2018

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Western News PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Friday, 22 June 2018

ISSUE 62

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Honoured for Service

Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals consumer legends Marj and Ken Freeman, who provide a consumer perspective on hospital upgrades, were recently awarded an Order of Australia (OAM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for their services to the Blacktown Community.

Lyn and Carolyn’s Step-by-Step Guide to Retirement Villages

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eet Carolyn and Lyn, two leading experts with years of experience in the retirement living industry. Here they share their insights and answers to the frequently asked questions people have about living in a retirement village.

1. They’re not aged care! Villages are for people over 55 who are active enough to live independently in their own home. In fact, plenty of people who live in a retirement villages are not retired at all. Many are simply making the most of the benefits of village life; less home maintenance, new home designs, social connections and great locations.

2. Find the right home for you. Ask yourself what sort of home do you see yourself living in? And what amenities are important to you? You might prefer to be near golf courses, or if you have a pet, finding a pet-friendly village could be at the top of your list. Consider whether you need or want off-street parking, a swimming pool, nearby shopping and dining options or other amenities.

3. Ask friends and residents. Living in a retirement village means being part of a community of like-minded people. Talk to friends who have already made the move into a village about their experiences. Residents are the greatest advocates for gaining real insight into a village, so drop on in to an event and get a real taste for the lifestyle!

Western News

local news

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ember for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said that the NSW state budget delivered this week allows people all over the state to benefit from the responsible financial management and discipline of the Liberal Government over the last seven years.

“Not only is the Government continuing its record investments in transport and hospital infrastructure but this year’s budget continues by the record investment in education set in last year’s budget,” said Mr Conolly.

Mr Conolly said some of the highlights for Riverstone electorate and the region are: $75 million has been allocated for land acquisition for the planned Rouse Hill Hospital; $31.5 million to upgrade Boundary Road and McCulloch Street to two lanes in each direction between Schofields Road and Cranbourne Street; $4 million for an extension of Boundary Road; Funding for the 2 new primary schools to be built in the Alex Avenue precinct and in the Marsden Park area; Funding for the 4 school upgrade projects under way at Quakers Hill East Public School, Riverbank Public School, Schofields Public School and Riverstone High School;

$24.5 million for Riverstone Wastewater Treatment Plant Amplification, Stage 1; $2.5 million to finalise the Schofields Road project; $4.5 million to construct 60 additional car spaces at Schofields Station, including lighting; $26.8 million for the upgrade Hambledon Road currently under way; $22 million for the Memorial

Avenue upgrade project which includes an improved intersection at Sunnyholt Road and Old Windsor Road.

The government has also announced $500 million to air condition almost half the schools in the state.

Mr Conolly said there will be more police, nurses, teachers, paramedics and midwives as a result of budget commitments.

“And of course the North West

Metro is on track to open in 2019,” Mr Conolly said.

“Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Treasurer Dominic Perrottet have delivered an outstanding range of investments in the infrastructure and services needed by the people of NSW,” said Mr Conolly.

“Only the Berejiklian Liberal government could have delivered these outcomes because of the hard work of budget repair over the last 7 years. Labor has opposed all the measures which have made the funding available for these initiatives.

“If Labor policies had been followed, none of these achievements would have been possible,” he said.

Londonderry MP Prue Car was quick to respond pointing out items that she says should have been in the Budget.

Among the items Ms Car listed were Marsden Park Elara Public School and St Marys station commuter car park or replacing demountables in public schools.

“The Berejiklian Budget also did not have any measures to tackle the growing cost of living pressures of NSW such as the re-introduction of the M4 toll hitting motorists and the sale of the state’s electricity network which has sent bills soaring,” Ms Car said.

Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

Government says western Sydney big winners in budget

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

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Vineyard Riverstone

From the Editor’s Desk

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

HE bitterly cold winter nights have certainly set in now, and the old ice pic is needed to get your car out of the driveway each morning.

As you jump in your nice warm bed tonight on your warm fluffy pillows, switching on your electric blanket if you have one, or pulling the ultrathick doona right up to your eyeballs so that only your eyebrows feel cold, spare a thought for our homeless people.

In these freezing conditions, they are likely sleeping on cold concrete or grass, with a piece of cardboard for warmth.

And if you’ve gone out and purchased new bright pink floral ten-inch thick bedding for the winter, how about donating the old bed covers to a collection point for our homeless.

Thick winter jackets, beanies, gloves, socks and tinned hot meals are all things that will come in handy to those who don’t have the comfort we have to come home to.

There are so many local charities across our large region that will pass on the goods for you, or contact us if you’d like to know your nearest drop off spot.

If ever there’s a time where The Haves should step up and help The Have Nots it is during the coldest months of the year.

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Western News

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estern Sydney’s favourite annual running festival, the Westlink M7 Blacktown Running Festival, is open for registrations to compete in

2018.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP is encouraging everyone in the City to lace up their joggers and register.

“This is a great opportunity for everyone who enjoys getting active. There is a race for everyone from the full marathon for professional athletes, to 5km and 2km walks for families and kids just having a go,” Mayor Bali said.

“One of the unusual aspects of this course is that it starts and finishes at Blacktown International Sportspark. It makes it very convenient for families who want to enter different races.

“This year marks the 13th year the marathon has been held on the Westlink M7 shared pathway, making it one

of the few traffic-free marathons in Australia,” Mayor Bali said.

The course runs along a race track along the M7 with no kerbs, gutters or traffic. Motorists are also not inconvenienced by road closures like other race events.

“This is partly why the event is such a huge success and is growing every year. Runners from all over Sydney and NSW gear up to compete every year.

“There is a group of runners who have competed in all 13 running festivals and we expect them to be there again this year.”

The marathon, half marathon and 10km races are all IAAF/AIMS Certified Accurate and the event is a member of AIMS (Association of International Marathons & Distance Races).

To register: www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/runningfestival

Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

Blacktown Running Festival is open for registrations

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Event Information Date: Sunday, 29 July 2018 Location: Blacktown International Sports Park, Rooty Hill – Athletics Facility Start times: 6:45am Start of marathon

(42.195km) 7:15am Start of half marathon

(21.1km) 7:40am Start of 10km run 7:50am Start of 5km run 7:55am Start of kid’s marathon 2km The Westlink M7 Blacktown Running Festival is for all ages.

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Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

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local news › Cemetery robbery Police are appealing for public assistance after a woman was allegedly robbed of a handbag while at a cemetery this week.

About 3.40pm on Tuesday 19 June a 52-year-old woman was at Riverstone Cemetery on Cemetery Road, when a man approached her and removed a handbag from her vehicle.

After a short struggle, during which the man pushed the woman, he fled in a red-coloured hatchback car.

Officers from Quakers Hill Police Area Command have commenced an investigation and are urging anyone who may have witnessed the alleged robbery to contact them.

Police wish to speak to a man who may be able to assist them.

He is described as being 30 to 35-year-old, between 170 and 175cm tall with a medium build and was last seen wearing a grey hat and Khaki pants.

Western News

New and improved Doonside playground opens

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oonside locals are enjoying a new and improved playground in their suburb after Doonside Heights Park received a $113,000 upgrade.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said this Doonside playground is one of many playgrounds to receive a facelift as part of Council’s ongoing renewal program.

“Playgrounds are vital to our community. They contribute to our lifestyle, and provide valuable spaces for children to play and learn,” Mayor Bali said.

“Blacktown City has recognised this importance by allocating funding to upgrades for several parks across the city every year, including at Doonside Heights Park.”

Council undertook a consultation workshop with Crawford Public School students and consulted with the surrounding community for the Doonside Heights Park.

“Community views played a significant role in designing the playground and choosing the equipment,” Mayor Bali said.

“The park features a range of equipment including a flying fox, pod swing, carousel, swing set, springers and a trampoline.

George Alder Reserve in Quakers

Mayor Bali with happy Crawford Public School students. The students were given the opportunity to have a say during a consultation workshop.

Hill, Thomas Kelly Street Park in Lalor Park, Prospect Park in Prospect, Azzopardi Street Park in Glendenning

and Willmot Reserve in Willmot, will all receive upgrades in the coming months.

Western News

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ranquil waterscapes with gentle ripples, colourful lilies and waterbirds created from torn paper have been installed outside the entry to Blacktown Hospital’s

Birthing Unit. The works were created by artist Angela Nashaat who used colourful paper strips cut into ‘tiles’ to create the mosaic effect (detail below).

Above, Student Midwife Raechel and Registered Midwives Agatha and Vikki outside Birthing, where the artworks create a soothing entrance to the unit.

7 Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

Water view for new mums

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Big-hearted community supports our hospital kids

Better Foundation will be donating $40, 831 to the Children’s Ward at Mount Druitt Hospital as a result of the inaugural Gala Dinner recently.

Fundraising and Events coordinator Sonia Daniels said funds will be dedicated to support the creation of a multipurpose room to host specialist clinics and support patients to receive treatment closer to home.

“We certainly could not have achieved this wonderful result without the help and support of the local community and staff who attended the gala,” she said.

It was the Foundation’s first major event and included a car giveaway courtesy of Lander Toyota.

Lucky winner Lauren Pervan (above) from JK Williams is pictured here with Rod Cullen, Dealer Principal from Lander Toyota.

Mount Druitt Hospital wishes to thank Better Foundation Board and supporters, and thank you to Sonia for all her hard work!

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Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

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Western News

Vale Bev McDonald Tallawong station

By Bobby and Mary Bradford

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t is with enormous sadness we share the news that Beverly ‘Bev’ McDonald passed away early Tuesday morning (June20) after a seven-month battle will ill health.

Bev had been cared for at home by her husband Tom McDonald, who is well known as the St Marys Town Crier, till late last week.

Bev and Tom were a team for over more than four decades, many may remember their devotion to the MATS program which encouraged young entertainers. This devotion was only second to their devotion to family.

They booked entertainers and had also owned and operated Fankenstein’s and Bawdy Bills Theatre Restaurants.

Tom could be seen as Town Crier or Santa depending on the season... They even coordinated a Christmas in July Camel Carnival!

Bev was hard-working, dry, frank and funny and supported Tom in every new idea and scheme.

Tom stepped up to the task of caring for Bev when she needed him most.

That’s the kind of team they were.

We send our love to Tom and the McDonald Clan at this very sad time.

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allawong Station will be the official new name for the first Sydney Metro station in the city’s North West.

The station has been known as Cudgegong Road Station during the construction phase and is the first station on the new metro line once trains leave the Sydney Metro Trains Facility at Rouse Hill.

Tallawong Station will serve The Ponds, Rouse Hill and surrounding areas.

Following community feedback, the station has been named Tallawong, a word with local historical significance that’s

derived from the Dharug word ‘dalawang’ for the apple gum tree.

The station is located between Tallawong and Cudgegong roads.

It will be serviced by a new metro train every four minutes in the peak and will have: 1,000 commuter car parking spaces; Four bus bays; 15 kiss-and-ride spaces; and Parking and storage for 55 bicycles.

The names of the other stations on the Sydney Metro Northwest project have already been confirmed.

Early detection the key in surviving bowel cancer

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owel, or colorectal cancer, is the second biggest cancer killer in Australia after lung and before prostate cancer.

It claims the lives of more than 80 Australians every week.

It is expected there will be 20,000 cases diagnosed in 2020, with just over half of these affecting men (around 55 per cent).

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is an annual initiative of Bowel Cancer Australia during June to raise awareness and encourage people aged 50 and over to get checked.

The risk of bowel cancer rises sharply each year after you turn 50.

It is one of the most treatable types of cancer if found early.

Westmead Hospital is at the forefront of screening for bowel cancer, with its specialist Public FOBT clinic – the only one in Western Sydney.

“It’s a really preventable cause of cancer,” said Dr Nicholas Burgess, staff specialist (gastroenterologist) at Westmead.

“The (Commonwealth) Government runs the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) which is a way of picking out people who are at higher risk in the community of having bowel cancer, or pre-cancerous lesions called polyps, in the bowels.

“If you have a positive bowel cancer screening test or faecal occult blood test (FOBT) then you should have a

colonoscopy because it’s possible we could detect early a cancer that occurs in about three to four per cent of people that have a positive test.

“Usually we find it at an early stage so the treatment outcomes are much better than if it was found later.”

In about 50 to 60 per cent of cases there is a benign growth called a polyp in the colon.

Polyps can be removed during a simple day procedure.

At Westmead’s FOBT clinic, patients having no alarming symptoms will be seen by a nurse specialist who will triage them for a colonoscopy as soon as possible.

They will receive education regarding diet modification and bowel preparation and a nurse can be contacted for any further questions.

The FOBT Clinic will also forward all pathology results to the referrer for follow up which helps to reduce unnecessary clinic visits.

Risk factors for bowel cancer include rectal bleeding or a strong family history of bowel cancer, with around 25 per cent of all cases linked to a hereditary contribution.

“Even if you’ve got no symptoms at all, you need to do that check, to make sure that you can reduce your risk of bowel cancer,” said Dr Nicholas Burgess.

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) asks eligible people (without symptoms) from age 50 to 74 to screen for bowel cancer using a free, simple test at home.

Australia has one of the highest

rates of bowel cancer in the world with one in 23 developing it in their lifetime.

NBCSP participants are sent a free, clean, easy to use test kit to complete at home.

To be invited to take part in the program, your name is drawn from either Medicare or Department of Veterans’ Affairs enrolment records.

By the time the program is fully implemented in 2020, two-yearly screening will be offered to all eligible people aged 50 to 74 – that is around four million Australians every year.

“Prevention is the key and if it’s detected early more than 90 per cent can be cured,” said Westmead’s FOBT clinical nurse consultant Betty Lo. “The more people know the importance of this bowel screening, the more willing they are to participate because this is a very easy test, very simple.”

The NBCSP could save up to 500 lives each year according to the Commonwealth Department of Health.

Free bowel cancer patient information and resources can be requested or downloaded from Bowel Cancer Australia at www. bowelcanceraustralia.org Further information about the Federal Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program can be found at www.cancerscreening. gov.au

Western News

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Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP and Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland

he eagerly awaited Rouse Road Bridge in Rouse Hill is nearing the final stages of construction.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said the construction of the $7 million bridge will solve a real problem in the area.

“It will serve the needs of the expanding community in this new growth centre precinct,” Mayor Bali said.

“Blacktown City Council has had the bridge planned for some time, but needed to wait for available funding.

“The federal grant, made under the Bridges Renewal Program, enabled the work to be fasttracked.”

Blacktown City Council matched the $3.5 million funding provided by the Federal Government and is overseeing the project.

Senator for Western Sydney and Minister for Defence, Marise Payne said the new bridge would replace the existing flood-prone causeway at Rouse Road.

“This project will bring welcome relief to the local community, particularly the Rouse Hill Anglican College, which has long endured inconvenience and safety issues around the causeway during heavy rain,” Senator Payne said.

Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland said the Rouse Road Bridge was a piece of long-awaited infrastructure.

“The lack of a bridge has been a frustration for local residents using Rouse Road during bad weather.

“It’s great to see such a vital piece of infrastructure finally being built for the community.”

The Rouse Road Bridge is scheduled to open by the end of 2018.

› NAIDOC week Nominations are now open for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Citizen of the Year Award.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP encourages residents to apply before nominations close on Wednesday, 4 July.

“If you know an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander who lives or works in Blacktown City and has made an outstanding contribution to our community I strongly urge you to nominate them for the award,” Mayor Bali said.

The award will be presented during the NAIDOC week celebration on Tuesday, 10 July at Blacktown Showground.

“The celebration will be a fun filled day from 11am to 4pm featuring indigenous performances, free children activities including face painting, circus activities and a free barbeque.”

The annual Blackfulla’s Got Talent, So You Mob Think You Can Dance Idol Competition will also take place to encourage local young Aboriginal people to go on stage and share their talent with the community.

“NAIDOC Week is a celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across various fields,” Mayor Bali said.

“It is a privilege and a source of great pride to be the Mayor of a City with one of the largest urban Aboriginal communities in the State.”

Details for nominations: blacktown.nsw. gov.au/Community/Awards-scholarships-andcompetitions or phone Council on 9839 6000

9 Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

Rouse Road Bridge scheduled to open

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Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

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Western News

The Snow-less Mountains

Mount Kosciuszko

Lake Jindabyne

By BEN CRANNEY

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he ski season has started, and people are heading to the Snowy Mountains. I’m not much of a skier, but I do love the snow covered landscape. But even more, I love the mountains from Spring to Autumn, when it’s snowless but there’s still a chill in the air. Pockets of wildflowers may be sprouting, it’s much less crowded and there’s plenty to do. Hiking, gin tasting, trout fishing, sailing Lake Jindabyne, or mountain bike riding down the ski runs will keep most people busy. Or

Rainbow Lake

just curl up under a blanket on a deck chair, overlooking Lake Jindabyne with a book.

One of the popular hikes is up Mount Kosciuszko. The weather can change quickly here. 15 years ago, when I first went up, it was clear most of the way. 200m from the top, the clouds came in, and I left with no idea of what it felt like to look out over the top of the continent. I went up again earlier this year. I didn’t really want to, but I’m glad I changed my mind.

Under hazy blue air, serrated ridges melted into the horizon, and I found a beautiful view. It’s especially nice in

the late afternoon, when it’s touched by an orange glow. Dress in layers, it’s windy.

But it’s not my favourite hike. That title goes to Bullock’s Flat, which is named after a Sydney doctor who built his alpine getaway here in the 30s. Picnic by the creeks, before following them around to his house, where you’ll be surprised at how simple someone who would have been considered upper class holidayed in comparison to today.

Another great hike is Rainbow Lake. A couple of Ks through naked trees and alpine vegetation gets you

to the perfectly flat lake, sitting in a dammed valley with thick vegetation on one side, open hills on the other, a rotting pier splitting it down the middle, and water so blue you can see the cold. It looks very inviting after the short walk, but when I heard the shrieks from another walker as she jumped in, I was glad I hadn’t.

There’s so much more to see and do that you could probably fill every weekend for the rest of the year and not cover it all. So if you’re a skier, or even if you’re not, think about heading down in a different season to see what you can find.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel The World Between

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sn’t it strange how, once you get an idea, you see references to it all around you. Many years ago, when I was pregnant, every time I turned on the radio there was some programme or another about the terrible things that could befall you and when my first husband was ill, it was all about kidney transplants.

Recently, I have been thinking about the actual make-up of the spirit world. I am often asked what it is like and I have so far refrained from saying that I will tell them once I am there! However, several things I have read or thought about in the last few weeks have got me wondering.

I have just reread a book by the wonderful John Connolly. He is one of my favourite authors and not only writes a cracking good thriller, but also seems to have a great empathy with the spirit world.

In this particular book, the hero is relating a trip he took to Little Big Horn with his father when he was a teenager. He writes that he could almost feel himself there with Custer and how it seemed that there was only a hairsbreadth of history separating the present from the past and of the honeycomb world where the past never truly dies but is still alive in the present.

Do those who have passed away live in this honeycomb world around us? Is the past, present and future so interconnected that we may relive and

perhaps rectify things that we would rather not have happened? If this is the case, how does that affect our future?

There is a wonderful film about an American battleship which enters a time warp in the Bermuda Triangle during a huge electrical storm. The crew can’t make out why their modern equipment won’t function but suddenly they see all the fighter planes taking off from the aircraft carriers en route to Pearl Harbour and realise they are witnessing the start of the US involvement in World War II. Suddenly the miraculous power of Hollywood scriptwriters gives them the opportunity of returning to their present

time via another electrical storm but this leaves the Captain with a huge conundrum. Should he go back to the present day or should he stay and somehow try to warn the naval base of the impending attack. In the end he goes back, but it does raise the question of whether we should try to change history.

In the spirit world, it seems time does not exist as we know it. Does the same apply to place and indeed space? It sometimes seems that there is a fine membrane separating the two worlds and it only takes a little tear for them to meet. Are there things we would go back and change in our lives?

Yes, of course we all have those rather toe-curling moments that we wish had never happened, but don’t we learn from those mistakes and don’t they form us into the people we are today.

We talk about seeing ghosts or things that go bump in the night, but maybe like John Connolly’s hero that is just the layer between the honeycomb world and ours getting thinner and allowing us to see glimpses of the other side. *Our next discussion group will be on Wednesday 27th June at 7.00pm at Hawkesbury Natural Therapies Centre, Level 1, 187 Windsor Street, Richmond. Tel: 4578 8868 or email suzisamuel24@gmail.com The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

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Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

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Lest We Forget World War 1 Diggers from Blacktown District (Part 2)

By Jack Brook Blacktown and District Historical Society

H

ere we honour some World War 1 diggers who had lived in Blacktown and surrounding district. Many of these men gave their lives for their country and should never be forgotten. This is the second tribute in the series.

Robert Owen Pickburn (Private) Robert was one of the older men to enlist for military service. He enlisted in Sydney in March 1916, where he had attended Sydney Grammar School. His calling was given as ‘Agricultural’. He resided at Seven Hills for some period of time. He was assigned to the 53rd Battalion, AIF. On 21 October 1917, Robert died of wounds at Passchaendale, Belgium. At the time of his death he was 39 years of age. He is buried in Belgium - 11 Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery. Memorial Panel: 158.

Alfred Rose Pye (Private) Alfred Pye was in the 18th Battalion Australian Infantry. Prior to enlisting at Riverstone, where he lived, he had some military training with the Penrith Rifles.

He was born at Schofields Siding, near Blacktown. Following his schooling at Riverstone and Windsor Public Schools, Alfred became a farmer. His father was James John Pye, a Blacktown Councillor, and his mother was France’s Pye. At the time of Alfred’s death, near La Sars, France, he was only 18

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years, 11 months old. He was killed in action on 26 February 1917 and interred in France at 385 Warlencourt British Cemetery. Memorial Panel: 86.

Two other members of the Pye Family also paid the ultimate sacrifice during World War 1: Lt Colonel Cecil Pye, DSO and Lt Raymond Pye. Two men who fought and returned to Australia were: Private Roy Harold Ostling, No 956, 18th Battalion. He enlisted 22 February 1915 and returned home on 16 June 1919. Roy was the brother of Mrs W McWilliam and came from Schofields Siding, near Blacktown.

Private Jack McWilliam, No 2693, 6th Battalion. Jack enlisted on 7 July 1916 and was shipped home on 5 September 1919, no doubt to a joyous family at Schofields Siding.

When Blacktown and District Historical Society first published the stories of the soldiers the editor wrote the following: It was very sobering to prepare this article and look into the faces of these men, some little more than boys, who went to the other side of a world which they had only seen in photographs in books, to fight a war they probably knew very little about. Imagine what Schofields Siding looked like in 1915. These men would have been fortunate to have seen Sydney in those days, let alone the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Now they lay in those foreign lands, never again to see the eucalyptus, blue skies and clear creeks of their home.

We owe them a debt which can never be repaid. The least we can do is to remember their names. Lest We Forget.

Would you like to read about the history of the Nepean?

Now you can purchase a LIMITED EDITION book featuring our history pages and more for just $10 plus postage and handling.

Help keep our history preserved by purchasing your copy. Order Now!

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In turn you will help maintain our region’s history sources as 50 per cent of proceeds go to the Nepean and St Marys Historical Societies

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Western News

How to buy without a 20% deposit

When you consider that a small flat in Sydney could set you back half a million dollars at the moment, saving a 20% deposit to buy that flat – $100,000 – can seem an insurmountable task.

That’s where insurance can help.

Lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) may be an added expense, but it offers buyers the opportunity to dive into the property market earlier, without saving up an entire 20 per cent of the property’s purchase price as a deposit.

What is it?

LMI protects the bank or lender, should a home loan go into default, guaranteeing that the lender will get its money back if the property needs to be sold and there is a shortfall in repaying the loan.

While a 20% deposit generally provides a good buffer against any drops in property value over the life of a loan, LMI can also provide the same protection, meaning borrowers can purchase property with a smaller deposit.

What’s in it for you?

For the borrower, it may seem LMI it is just another expense to cover.

But insurance can mean that some buyers will be able to enter the property market with, for example, only a five per cent deposit saved. In the example above, a $500,000 property, this brings the deposit down from $100,000 to just $25,000.

And, if the market is hot and prices are rising rapidly, paying LMI so that you can buy now could be cheaper than taking the time to save a bigger deposit. In the time it takes to save a higher deposit amount, property prices may well have surged by more than cost of the insurance so, for some properties and purchasers, it can make good financial sense to purchase earlier even with the added cost of LMI, especially when you consider the rent that you would pay while you’re saving.

What you need to know The insurance premium is generally a one-off payment, but you may be able to roll it into the loan amount so that you are paying for it month-bymonth along with your mortgage.

There can be a big difference between premiums paid if you have, for example, a 10 per cent deposit saved compared with a five per cent deposit, so it may well be worth trying

to gather together some extra funds, even if you despair of reaching the full 20 per cent.

Investigating your options and working out whether to buy now or save extra deposit is a decision that Wealthwiz can help you with.

To organise a meeting to understand your financial position, speak to Alex Soncini on 0419 600 177.

*The comparison rate is based on a secured loan of $150K over a term of 25 years. WARNING: The comparison rate is true only for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. **Subject to terms and condition of the special offer for a limited time.

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

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13 Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

Alex Soncini

REAL ESTATE

Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

14

REAL ESTATE

Western News

Blacktown City losing distance on leaders

By CONNER LOWE

B

lacktown City have suffered a setback in their pursuit for top spot in the National Premier League 1 after losing 2-1 against APIA Leichardt Tigers at Lily Homes Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Blacktown City started strong against their rivals and were rewarded with their early dominance after a clever run from Joey Gibbs lead to Ivan Necevski the APIA goalkeeper bringing him down inside the box, giving away a penalty. Gibbs converted effortlessly from 12-yards to put the home side ahead in the 12th minute.

The Tigers weren’t behind for long levelling the game at 1-1 just before the half an hour mark.

APIA turned on the pressure causing the Blacktown City keeper into multiple saves, before a good spell of possession seen a deflected shot from Tasuku Sekiya fall to the feet of Sean Symons on the sixyard box and was able to finish to get the Tigers back into the contest.

The teams went in to the break level and came out firing in the second half with both teams missing chances to go ahead just after the break. 12 minutes before fulltime Blacktown were awarded another penalty for a handball from APIA defender Nathan Millgate, however Joey Gibbs was unable to convert having the penalty saved by Ivan Necevski.

The miss would prove costly for Blacktown when APIA Leichardt took the lead in added-time. The Tigers took a quick free kick, catching out the City defence and Adrian Ucchino was able to find the

top corner with a fantastic strike from outside the box.

Mark Crittenden, the Blacktown City coach spoke about the disappointing result, but remained optimistic ahead of the final stretch of the campaign.

“It was a bitter pill to swallow with the late goal, but I thought we did enough to earn a point in the end,” he said.

“The boys played well, I can’t fault them and APIA are a very good side, a physical side. In the context of our premiership chances it’s a bit of a

blow, but we have to remember last season we were in the lead by five or six points and ended up getting pipped at the end.

“There’s still a long way to go.”

Blacktown City now sit five points behind APIA Leichardt who are currently in second, however have a catch-up game to play against Bonnyrigg White Eagles on Wednesday 4th of July. Blacktown will be hopeful of a positive result to close the gap with the top two, as they head into the final stretch of the season.

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solution 8/6/18

Western News

with MARK GEYER

Thoughts on Origin and what’s to come

B

ecause of the fortnightly distribution of this fair magazine I haven’t had a chance to dissect the first origin game from the MCG in Melbourne with you, the reader.

I’ll also have a look at this Sunday’s blockbusting confrontation at ANZ stadium for game 2 of this years origin series.

Origin 1 was the changing of the guard.

It was a complete overhaul of player personnel from both the playing and coaching point of view for the NSW team. Freddy replaced Laurie, Brandy replaced Sterlo, and Danny Buderus replaced Matt Parish as the clipboards exchanged hands. But it was the total overhaul amongst the playing ranks that had most excited.

11 debutants were picked! The team was picked ON FORM! And sentiment was thrown out the window.

Granted, QLD were a completely different looking team to the one that triumphed last season but at last NSW picked a team that could be a 5 or 6 year nucleus of something very very special.

Of all those debuting I thought Latrell Mitchell was brilliant, Nathan Cleary composed and strong, Tom Trbojevic fantastic, RCG tough, and Damien Cook electric.

To beat QLD 22-12 every one of the 17 man squad had to perform at their optimum, with Roosters James Tedesco being NSW’s very best. Now to game two this Sunday. I CANNOT wait!

Last weekend saw injury rule out Reagan Campbell Gillard with a broken jaw, poor bugger, and Michael Morgan with a torn bicep. Dylan Napa and Latrell Mitchell also had their own scares but should be ok for Sunday.

At the time of writing it wasn’t yet known who will replace RCG in the front row, with both Ryan James from the Titans, and Matt Prior from the Sharks being brought into the squad.

Ryan James is the tip and I have no qualms, it’s that I just don’t think a player like Tariq Sims can do any more to don the famous Blue jersey, but it looks like he’ll miss out again.

QLD on the other hand have decided to fight fire with fire and have brought in Newcastle sensation Kalyn Ponga to make his debut in the game’s biggest arena, something this whiz kid will handle with ease you sense.

NSW are starting overwhelming favourites for Sunday night’s game, and rightly so, but you get the feeling we are about to witness one of the more epic encounters ever seen in origin this Sunday night as NSW look to wrap up the series. BRING IT ON!!

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

 QLD whiz kid KalynPonga will make his origin debut this Sunday night

15 15 Western News 22 June 2018 Issue 62

MG on the mark

SPORT

Western News Friday, 22 June 2018

SPORT

Fan favourite departs the Wanderers

By CONNER LOWE

T

he NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the departure of striker Brendon Santalab.

Santalab, a fan favourite and the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, spent five seasons with the red and black after joining the club in August 2013 from Chongqing Lifan.

The Wollongong junior played in 117 matches for the club across all competitions, including being part of the historic AFC Champions League triumph in 2014 playing in both legs of the Final with a serious shoulder injury.

Santalab endeared himself to the Wanderers faithful with his passionate performances for the club, winning the prestigious Wanderers Medal in 2017 and being the club’s golden boot in two of his five seasons.

While the 35-year-old was offered an opportunity to remain with the club in an administrative role, Santalab has made the decision to continue playing

on for at least another season.

John Tsatsimas, the Wanderers CEO thanked Santalab for his passion and relentless drive for the club over his five seasons.

“Brendon has been a wonderful servant for the club and we thank him for his contribution during his five seasons with us,” he said.

“On and off the pitch Brendon has shown passion and pride in the club,

and been a fantastic ambassador with his roles in the community.

“While we were hopeful that Brendon would take up a prominent role within our community programme that was offered to him, we totally understand and respect his desire to continue his career as professional footballer.”

Santalab said he was grateful for his five seasons at the club, especially

the support of the fans and the achievements he has made during his time at the Wanderers.

“It’s been an incredible journey.

I leave the Wanderers with an Asian Champions League Winners Medal, Player of the Year (Wanderers Medal) award in 2016/17, two golden boot awards and currently hold the club’s all-time goal scorer title. I’m delighted with my time at the Wanderers,” he said.

“The fans have been instrumental in my success and I have been continuously overwhelmed by the ongoing support the people of Western Sydney have shown me during my five years at the club. Thank you.

“I would also like to thank Ronald McDonald House Westmead and ANZ Stadium for a great partnership during my time with the club.

“I wish the club, players, sponsors and fans all the very best in the future.”

The Wanderers fans will hope to see Santalab replaced by someone with the same attitude and passion for the club, as his departure leaves a huge hole to fill.