Australia and India’s sporting rivalry to be celebrated at Cricket Mela
ACELEBRATION of cricket, culture and friendship between Australia and India is coming to Blacktown City as part of a carnival called Cricket Mela (Hindi for ‘fair’ or ‘festival’).
Marking the Indian mens and womens teams’ tours of Australia this summer, the event will offer cricket action, cultural performances, children’s activities and more at Blacktown International Sports Park on Sunday 8 December.
Fans can watch Australia play India in the Border Gavaskar Trophy Series with Day 3 of the Adelaide Test Match shown on big screens, whilst Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting and Premier Chris Minns will show their skills in the Mayor’s XI v Premier’s XI friendly match. There will be 2 stages of entertainment.
Blacktown City has a thriving Indian community and thousands of people are expected to take advantage of the festivities.
Council will curate the event in partnership with the NSW Government, the Centre for Australia India Relations, Cricket Australia and Cricket NSW.
A lifelong fan of the sport, Mayor Bunting was excited about the tour and the chance to share the fun with the community.
“We have a large Indian community in Blacktown City, and I know many are looking forward to Australia and India’s rivalry continuing on the pitch,” he said.
“Cricket Mela is an opportunity for people to come
together and celebrate our shared love of the game, as well as the bond between our countries.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns said: “Everyone in NSW is excited by the coming Test series between Australia and India.
“This summer of cricket will see two of the greatest cricketing nations locked in one of the oldest rivalries on the sporting field. You won’t want to miss this.
“That’s why we are supporting the Cricket Mela in Blacktown. So that everyone in our city, particularly the huge diaspora in Western Sydney, are able to watch and celebrate world class cricket.”
Centre for Australia-India Relations CEO Tim Thomas said: “We are excited to join the Western Sydney community to kick off an incredible summer with Cricket Mela in Blacktown.”
“Throughout the next few months, the Centre for Australia-India Relations will work with Cricket Australia and state governments to make the most of the huge interest in the cricket. This interest can help to deepen business, community and cultural connections between Australia and India.”
Cricket activities, children’s rides, and a host of sporting groups will be part of the carnival atmosphere.
Cricket Australia Chief Executive Officer Nick Hockley said: “Cricket Mela brings Western Sydney together to celebrate a shared passion for cricket and community, while enjoying the Border Gavaskar Trophy Series and many other fun activities.
“We greatly appreciate the support of Blacktown
City Council, the NSW Government, the Centre for Australia-India Relations and Cricket NSW to deliver this fantastic initiative, a headline event in the Summer of Cricket”.
Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon said: “This cricket season, registered participants of South Asian heritage make up 23.6% of all cricket participants, bringing the total across NSW to 24,495 year-to-date.
“At Cricket NSW, our purpose is to inspire everyone to play and love cricket. This growth reflects how our inclusive sport brings communities together through a shared passion.
“On Sunday December 8, we encourage the community to bring family and friends to Blacktown to meet Sydney Thunder players, enjoy some great culture, food and cricket.”
Schofields resident Krunal Patel is among the fans looking forward to the event.
An Australian of Indian heritage, he and his wife are raising two keen cricketers in their adopted homeland.
“Australia and India are cricket-loving nations and the game brings our cultures together,” he said.
“Cricket is a bridge between our two strong, democratic countries.”
Cricket Mela is free and you can book a ticket through the Council website at www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au/mela
Cricket Mela will be held across the 2 ovals at the Blacktown International Sportspark and gates will open at 2.30 pm.
Blacktown City’s Diwali lights a spectacle of spirit
STRIKING displays of colour and creativity have lit up streets and started conversations across communities in Blacktown City Council’s Diwali Lights Competition.
Residents decorated their homes with imagery and floral arrangements as they celebrated the ancient Hindu festival marking the victory of light over darkness.
Rangoli artworks, often taking the form of a lotus flower, were common on lawns and driveways.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was one of the judges and was impressed by the entries.
“Council’s Diwali Lights Competition is a real spectacle and I have been impressed by the time and effort that has gone into the displays.
“The Blacktown City community
is proudly multicultural and we encourage people to express their heritage through traditional
celebrations such as Diwali.
“I have learned a lot by talking to the residents behind the displays
and I know the competition has been a conversation-starter between neighbours and helped community connection.”
The winning display belonged to the Kumars of Hampton Crescent, Prospect.
Second place was awarded to the Kumars of Wilcox Street, Marsden Park.
The Bhatnagars of Coobowie Drive at The Ponds claimed third.
Phantom Street at Nirimba Fields won the Best Street category.
The competition has been held since 2017 after Councillors put forward the idea to recognise the most creative displays.
Blacktown City’s cultural diversity is reflected in its leadership. There are 5 Councillors who have subcontinental heritage.
Winner: Hampton Cres, Prospect
Second place: Wilcox St Marsden Park
Third place: Coowbowie Dr, The Ponds
Mayoress calls on community spirit for Christmas Gift Appeal
PEOPLE are being encouraged to embrace the spirit of giving and donate a present to a child in need as part of the Blacktown Mayoress Christmas Gift Appeal.
Mayoress Norma Bunting encouraged people to give if they were able.
“While Christmas is a time of joy for many of us, it can bring sadness to those experiencing hard times or loneliness.
“The Blacktown City community has always given generously to this appeal and I hope we can bring some Christmas cheer to people doing it tough.”
People can bring unwrapped gifts for children up to 16 years to designated Council venues (see list below).
Suggestions include new and unused toys, books, clothing and nonperishable goods.
Community groups Blacktown Area Community Centres, Domestic Violence Service Management and Yenu Allowah Aboriginal Child and Family Centre will distribute donated gifts to children in need.
Blacktown Area Community Centres Coordinator Early Childhood Programs Donna Smith said many families needed assistance to provide essentials such as food and school supplies due to the cost of living.
“Families are having to choose between paying the rent and putting petrol in the car,” she said.
“So giving gifts to children is low among the priorities when you have to prioritise having a roof over your head.
“This appeal will give relief to families knowing they will not have to make that choice.”
Yenu Allowah Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Operations Manager
Liz Stasous was looking forward to seeing delighted children receive the presents when Santa visits the centre. Domestic Violence Service Management Family Violence Manager Avani Bhatt said the donated gifts will make a difference to women and children who have gone through tough times.
“This will light up their Christmas,” she said.
Gifts can be left at Kids Early
Learning centres, Blacktown Aquatic Centre, Blacktown City Council Foyer, Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope Gardens, Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre at Emerton, Dennis Johnson Library at Stanhope Gardens, Lalor Park Library, Max Webber Library, Mt Druitt Hub and Library, Riverstone Library and Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre.
Donations will be accepted until 5 pm on 4 December.
(L-R) Liz Stasous, Avani Bhatt, Norma Bunting and Helen Gledhill.
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From the Editor’s Desk
BY KERRIE DAVIES THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN PIPE DREAM
WHEN we speak of housing affordability, we understandably put the majority of the focus on those who risk being homeless and those who for a variety of reasons can’t possibly afford to make ends meet with the cost of housing.
There’s another aspect of housing that also requires full focus at the moment, and that’s home ownership.
For generations, owning a home has been the cornerstone of the “great Australian dream.” Yet for today’s first-home buyers, this dream is increasingly out of reach. Sydney’s property market, long notorious for its soaring house prices, now feels like a fortress with walls too high to climb.
The harsh reality? The deposit required for a home around here now exceeds the average annual salary earned in this country. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Add lenders’ mortgage insurance, stamp duty, legal fees, and moving costs, and the numbers become outright terrifying.
The picture only gets bleaker when paired with the rising cost of living. Grocery bills, fuel prices, energy costs—it’s all adding up, leaving little left over for savings. Then there’s the sharp sting of the increasing interest rates we’ve had, which further inflate already intimidating mortgage repayments.
For many, saving a deposit feels less like a goal and more like an unattainable fantasy.
If nothing changes, we risk fostering a generation of renters who will never experience the stability and security of home ownership. And this issue isn’t just a Sydney problem—it’s one that echoes across Australia, particularly in our bustling metropolitan areas.
As we edge closer to the federal election next year, housing affordability, including home ownership, must take centre stage. We need more programs aimed at assisting first-home buyers. The shared equity schemes and stamp duty concessions are great, but there’s still plenty of hard-working young Aussies falling through the cracks.
Of course we need to keep the spotlight on ending homelessness, but we also need to ensure those in a position to, can buy.
It’s time for policymakers to get serious, because right now, the great Australian dream isn’t just fading—it’s turning into a nightmare for far too many.
Making smart food choices
RESIDENTS of Lalor Park and Mount Druitt have been cooking up a storm thanks to an initiative supported by Western Sydney Local Health District’s (WSLHD) Health Promotion team.
Blacktown City Libraries and the health promotion team partnered with food rescue charity OzHarvest, to deliver the Nutrition Education Skills Training program (NEST) as part of Library Health Month.
This engaging six-week cooking program focuses on preparing healthy and affordable meals, empowering participants with the skills and knowledge to make healthy food choices.
“I’m thrilled that OzHarvest is delivering the NEST programs in our local libraries,” Michelle Nolan, WSLHD’s Health Promotion Director, said.
“Libraries are a great place to host initiatives that contribute to keeping our community healthy.
“NEST is not just about cooking; it’s a fun, interactive way for people to build confidence in the kitchen while developing healthy eating habits.
“Watching participants improve their cooking skills and form new friendships has been incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.”
227 Have you had your diabetes detection test? What this could mean for you.
THE Mayor of Blacktown City and more than 50 council staff recently lined up for a diabetes detection test, run by Western Sydney Local Health District’s (WSLHD) Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) team as part of World Diabetes Day .
The team from WSD carried out free diabetes risk assessments to Blacktown City Council staff at the council’s Staff Roadshow event, promoting early detection and the lifestyle campaign, the 2kg Challenge.
The team also promoted the initiatives at Healthy Living Toongabbie’s Healthy Ageing Forum that night.
NSW Health estimates that diabetes rates in western Sydney have been rising for over a decade, with 13% of adults living with the condition.
Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood. The body can’t make insulin, enough insulin, or is not effectively using the insulin it does make.
If untreated, high glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, resulting in long term health complications including heart, kidney, eye and foot damage.
Diabetes well-being is the theme for World Diabetes Day 2024-26.
Blacktown Mayor Brad Bunting was one of the first to step up for a HbA1c test and said diabetes is a real concern for families in the community and one of the most important things people can do is to test regularly.
“Testing allows us to make informed decisions about our health,” Mayor Bunting said.
“I am committed to promoting a healthier, more active community in Blacktown City, and our parks and open spaces are vital to this. Staying active can make a significant difference in managing and even preventing diabetes, so let’s work together to make a difference.”
The 2kg Challenge is an initiative by the Western Sydney Changing Diabetes collaboration which was launched in 2022 between Western Sydney Diabetes, Workers Lifestyle Group and pharmaceutical group Novo Nordisk in 2022,and encourages people to improve their health through small, manageable lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by up to 30 per cent.
WSD Director, Professor Glen Maberly said small, consistent lifestyle changes can help prevent diabetes.
“That’s why the 2kg Challenge is about more than weight loss, it is about embracing lifestyle changes that we can sustain every day,” Prof Maberly said.
“Diabetes can often be prevented if you act early, through increasing your physical activity, eating a healthy diet and losing weight.
“However, if you do develop diabetes you need to make sure you are getting regular blood tests and working with your GP to ensure you are using the appropriate medications and keeping your blood sugars under control.”
Early detection is key.
“Type 2 Diabetes is a significant burden of disease in the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) catchment and up to twice as prevalent in western Sydney suburbs compared to Sydney’s northern and eastern suburbs,” WSD Prevention Manager Sarah Driscoll said.
times more common in those from Indian sub-continent, Arabic, Asian, and Pacific Islands backgrounds, as well as those from the Aboriginal community.”
WSD is encouraging adults to go to their GP for a HbA1c blood test if they:
• Have a family history of diabetes;
• Have an inactive lifestyle;
• Are overweight or obese;
• Had diabetes during a pregnancy; and
• Have a Pacific Island, Indian subcontinent, African, Asian, South Asian, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island background.
The 3-minute finger prick test does not require fasting and is a quick indicator of diabetes.
“Getting outdoors, keeping active, and eating well all contribute to the prevention of type 2 diabetes.”
“Making changes to your lifestyle through eating well and exercise is the best way to make sure your blood glucose levels are controlled, alongside taking your appropriate medication.”
WSD was established in response to the growing threat diabetes poses to our community’s health and wellbeing.
It is led by WSLHD and Western Sydney Primary Health Network (WentWest), Diabetes Australia and Department of Planning and Environment to address the western Sydney diabetes hotspot.
“ “
Western Sydney is fortunate to have resources and programs that can help with managing diabetes.
“
You don’t need to overhaul your life all at once. Every bit of exercise and every healthy choice counts.
“
“Western Sydney is home to many cultural groups. Diabetes disproportionately impacts lower socio-economic, and culturally diverse communities and is up to four
Celebrating the Mobile Dental
AN innovative program offering convenient and free oral health check-ups to NSW public school children is celebrating its 1000th school visit. Since the program began in 2019, the Primary School Mobile Dental Program has offered free dental care to over 300,000 NSW public school students.
In the Western Sydney Local Health District the initiative has visited 75 schools and offered 73,134 students access to free dental care over 5 years. The mobile dental clinics visit participating public primary schools to provide on-site dental check-ups, cleans, x-rays and other preventive treatments, as well as education on good oral hygiene practices.
This initiative not only addresses immediate dental needs but also equips children with the knowledge to maintain their oral health.
If a child needs follow-up dental
You can find Healthy Living Options, Healthy Living Options –Affordable Food, and Healthy Recipe Book editions on the WSD website at www.westernsydneydiabetes.com. au/resources/brochures/
There are also low cost, simple, healthy recipes on the NSW Healthy Living website at www.healthyliving. nsw.gov.au
Clinics’ 1000th school visit
care public dental service staff will contact parents and carers to discuss options for treatment, which may include further treatment at a mobile dental clinic or a local dental clinic. In addition to the Primary School Mobile Dental Program, all children under 18 years of age can access free dental care provided by NSW Health at public dental clinics.
Deputy Premier and Minister for
Education and Early Learning Prue Car said it was fantastic to see that the dental van has made 1000 visits to public schools across NSW, offering free check-ups to many public school students.
“It is critical for young students to learn healthy habits from an early age, and free visits from mobile dental clinics have now helped thousands of students do just that,” Ms Car said.
Minister for Health Ryan Park said oral health care is a crucial part of being and staying healthy and these mobile dental clinics make it easier for families to receive essential check-ups.
“This is an important and exciting milestone to celebrate, and I want to thank everyone who has been a part of the 1000 school visits and offered access to free dental care to over 300,000 children.” Minister Park said.
Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla applauded the program.
“It’s incredible to think that Rooty Hill Primary School could mark the 1000th visit for this valuable program, which has made a meaningful impact in the Mount Druitt community and across the state. The mobile dental clinics are an essential resource for parents and caregivers in the Mount Druitt community, providing children with accessible and free dental care right at their doorstep.”
Living With the River photographic competition
THE NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) has launched its inaugural ‘Living with the River’ photo competition to celebrate the Hawkesbury-Nepean River and illustrate some of the risks for communities living on a floodplain.
The Living with the River photo competition highlights the resilience and adaptability of the HawkesburyNepean community. Participants are encouraged to submit photographs reflecting the diverse ways in which the river impacts daily life, culture, and the environment.
Local artist and ambassador of the competition is Archibald Prizewinning artist, #Blak Douglas, who is
known for his powerful depictions of Indigenous culture and environmental themes. He also grew up in Penrith and has a deep connection to the Hawkesbury-Nepean.
The Living with the River photo competition is running alongside the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Disaster Adaptation Plan (DAP) development, to reduce flood risk in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley, the first DAP in the state. As part of this work, the images will showcase the river through the eyes of those living on the floodplain.
So far, the RA has received more than 130 photo entries with the closing date on February 2, 2025.
How to enter: Participants submit their entries through the NSW Reconstruction Authority website. For more information and the terms
and conditions please visit nsw.gov. au/living-with-the-river
Competition Details: Entry Deadline: 2 February 2025. Prize Pool valued at $5,000 across 5 categories: Primary School, High School, Open, AI and Semi-Professional including a Special Prize - a half-day photography workshop for the winning secondary school, valued at $2,200.
To find out more about the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley DAP and share your thoughts on flood risk reduction, visit the Have Your Say page #Blak Douglas, born Adam Douglas Hill, is a celebrated artist and descendant of the Dhungatti Nation (Kempsey, NSW). His work often explores themes of social justice, indigenous identity and environmental conservation. Douglas
has received numerous awards and his art is exhibited in galleries across Australia and internationally. In 2022, Douglas won the Archibald Prize for his portrait of Karla Dickens in the Lismore floods.
Blak said the Hawkesbury-Nepean River, also known as the Dyarubbin, is a place for recreation, a source of livelihood, a natural wonder, and is culturally significant to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Our rivers are the lifeblood of our communities, providing us with water, food, and a place to be creative and connect with nature,” he said. “Young, old – whoever you are, zoom in and capture everything. I encourage you to participate and share your perspectives on how we live with and cherish the Dyarubbin.”
Australia-first heart surgery for Windsor Downs Veteran
BY NOEL ROWSELL
88-YEAR-OLD Noel Byles (Windsor Downs) has become the first person in Australia to receive the ‘next generation lead-less pacemaker’, following a recent operation.
An active golfer and passionate sports person, Noel has spent most of his life on sports fields and continues to get out to the golf course twice a week. He is a foundation member, as well as Vice President of the Western Sydney Division of the NSW Golf Association. He is also Vice President and founder of the Veterans Golfing Group at Richmond GC.
“When I was faced with my heart issue and Dr Kanthan suggested a lead-less pacemaker, my immediate concern was how soon it would be until I was playing golf again,” Noel said.
“It’s extremely important for people of my age to get out and do some physical exercise and engage in social interactions, rather than sit at home, so getting back to my daily activities was essential.”
A traditional pacemaker uses leads which run through blood vessels into the heart, and deliver electrical pulses
to stimulate the heart if it beats too slowly or stops. The leads are attached to an implantable pulse generator (IPG), a battery which is implanted under the skin of the upper chest.
This battery will typically last up to 10 years and can be replaced with a surgical procedure to remove the IPG and attach the leads to a new device.
A lead-less pacemaker however is a tiny device, smaller than a triple A battery. Using a catheter inserted through a vein in the groin, the pacemaker is placed into the heart and attaches to the chamber wall. The procedure to place the device takes only a few minutes.
Dr Kanthan said “We’re seeing battery life of 1-25 years, compared to a standard transvenous system where it’s roughly 10 years. The standard person gets re-operated on every 10 years, whereas if you’ve got something that’s lasting around the 18-year mark, for most people it will be just one pacemaker for life.”
The device which Dr Kanthan implanted into Noel is the only pacemaker which is designed for easy removal, so if something changes with a patient’s car, it can be quickly removed or replaced.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
The Nepean and Hawkesbury Rivers. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Richmond Presentation - Noel Byles and Peter Murphy.
Noel Byles at his beloved Richmond GC.
Western Sydney students take on the GWS Giants for leadership inspiration
WESTERN Sydney Local Health District’s (WSLHD) Students As LifeStyle
Activists (SALSA) held an event filled with innovation, passion, and hope, with its SALSA Youth Voices Leadership Day, a day that combined the combined the energy of AFL finals with a mission to inspire change.
The day was all about empowering Year 10 students as peer leaders with a vision to make their schools healthier places, with influential figures like Adam Kingsley, head coach of the GWS Giants, along with uplifting words from leaders like Jamal Rifahi, who oversees Community Engagement, and Malcolm Lynch, a champion of Indigenous Inclusion and Diversity, setting the tone.
The SALSA Youth Voices program provides peer leaders with an opportunity to identify and develop an action to create a supportive school environment for healthy eating and physical activity.
Part one is SALSA Youth Voices Leadership Day.
This year brought together 32 students from five high schools, including Colyton, Erskine Park, Model Farms, Rooty Hill, and Rouse Hill.
Here, they didn’t just learn; they led, walking away with real-world skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—all crucial for tackling big challenges.
“When we split into groups, we were figuring out things that would help with being healthy,” one student said.
“That involves us talking in our groups and communicating and figuring out what works.”
For them, it was more than just an exercise; it was an eye-opening experience about how simple actions could lead to healthier communities.
The Leadership Day was packed with activities that encouraged critical thinking and creative problem-solving, helping students look at barriers to healthy living from new angles.
“It’s good to listen, to understand, and to hear other people’s perspectives,” another student said.
“It’s good to listen to figure out ways to work around problems like that.”
One student was even told by Stephen Coniglio, co-captain of the GWS Giants, that he would make a perfect ruckman.
The momentum will continue with SALSA Youth Voices Action Day on Monday, November 25,
where these students will present their plans and ideas to health and education professionals.
This is their chance to shine, to show how they plan to make a lasting impact on physical activity and healthy eating in their schools.
If you’re passionate about youth, health, or education, you can lend your support and insight, joining a movement led by young voices determined to build a brighter, healthier future.
Walers of WW1
By John Kelaher, NDHS member
AT a society meeting we were entertained by guest speaker Shirley Seale with a brief history of Waler horses who went to war.
These horses were originally called horses from N.S.W. and later shortened to New South Walers and again later shortened to simply Walers. The term eventually was used by Australia, and indeed the rest of the world, to refer to all horses exported from Australia. Horses were brought to Australia with the First Fleet- on the Lady Penrhyn. By 1802, William Cox was reputed to have the best horses and the colony had a total of 203. Within ten years the total had grown to over 2,000. The crossing of the Blue Mountains was only possible because of the Waler horses used, especially as they were able to survive on poor feed for days on end. During the 1800s, the early colony was exporting horses to India and New Zealand and elsewhere. The official term Walers came into common usage after 1846.
During WWI Australia had a population of five million people - and two-and-a-half million horses! Remember, horses were the main means of transport for the world up till then. Men enlisting often enlisted their horse as well, and the horse was tested and if found acceptable was rebranded as a government horse and paid for by the army. (Did you know that originally, only Queenslanders were given permission to wear emu feathers on the left-hand side of their hat, but later this was allowed to all enlisting. The Diggers called them “kangaroo feathers” to poke fun at non-Australians).
In the first convoy there were 30,000 men and 12,000 horses. Only 3% of the horses were ever lost at sea. Walers were trained to go from a walk to a canter and carry up to 140kg of rider plus gear while English horses were trained to go from a walk to a trot and this caused more bounce and not good for all the weight.
Horses normally drink around 30L of water a day and eat 3kg of barley. Camels were originally used to carry water for the horses but they could not keep up with the Walers.
The Light Horse were in fact not cavalry but infantry - the Waler horses were simply used to carry the infantry from one engagement to the next. During battle, horse handlers would look after five or six horses. A “remount” was a replacement horse for a soldier’s horse which was killed and was not usually as well broken in.
At the end of WWI, the army had 13,000 horses left - it was regarded as too expensive to return them home and also a danger to Australian wildlife.
The army planned on selling them to the locals for work horses or they were to be “put down” but the Australian soldiers were often too attached to their mounts to see this happen and there were many reported incidents of the Light Horse infantry riding a mate’s horse and having to “destroy it after it fell, treading in a hole” in the desert.
Shirley reminded us that over 80% of these diggers were farmers or tradesmen and many wrote poetry and yarns for the “Kia Ora CooEe” magazine which sold for 2d on the battle fields. (for an extra 1/2d you could buy an envelope and send it home).
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
@wealthwiz
ALEX SONCINI
TUnlocking Opportunities for Better Interest Rates
HE Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) continues to hold the current cash interest rate steady after the 12 rates increases since May 2022. Many economists’ forecast interest rates to decline mid 2025 whilst the RBA’s August 2024 Statement on Monetary Policy, the cash rate is expected to decrease to in 2026. Whilst these rate hikes have posed challenges for borrowers, there’s another factor that might be amplifying the financial strain for some – misplaced loyalty to their current mortgage lender.
Home Loan Interest Rates: Loyalty Can Come at a Higher Cost!
It’s a startling reality that many loyal homeowners often find themselves burdened with higher interest rates on their home loans. This loyalty to your mortgage lender can lead to unexpected consequences when it comes to your home loan interest rates. Studies have shown that a significant number of borrowers continue to pay higher rates compared to new customers.
Whilst 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.
Remaining loyal to a lender with higher rates can accumulate substantial additional costs over time. Even seemingly minor rate differences can translate into significant financial burdens. For example, a modest increase of just 0.25 percent can result in thousands of extra dollars paid over the life of a loan. Understanding these long-term impacts is essential for making wise choices that optimize your financial situation and lead to substantial savings.
The Potential RBA Rate Decision
As we navigate these financial challenges, it’s important to keep an eye on the Reserve Bank of Australia. The RBA plays a pivotal role in influencing interest rates across the country.
To ensure that your loyalty is rewarded, and you secure more favourable interest rates, consider the following strategies:
• Regularly Review Your Home Loan: It’s essential to 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 improved 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, make sure to 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, particularly in a changing interest rate environment influenced by the RBA. By understanding the potential impact of loyalty and exploring strategies to maximise your home loan benefits, you can make informed decisions that optimise your finances and help you achieve your financial goals.
To further explore opportunities to enhance your financial well-being, you can reach out to Alex from Wealthwiz today at 0419 600 177 or via email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.
Unlock the financial potential that awaits you and secure a brighter financial future.
“Lender terms and conditions apply. The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional tax advice.”
Indigenous course connects men to culture and healing
APROGRAM specifically designed for inmates at Parklea Correctional Centre is filling the knowledge gaps of Australian Indigenous history and culture, leading to healing and understanding for Aboriginal and nonAboriginal participants.
The 10-week Cultural Connection program was jointly designed by the team at Parklea and Adam Nobilia from Dharug social enterprise Muru Mittigar, which means “pathway to friends”. It covers topics such as identity, values, history, songlines and healthy mind, body and relationships.
The program is currently run in Parklea’s Drug Recovery Wing, where inmates take the pledge to stop using drugs and undertake a 12week program. It consists of a suite of workshops, discussions and education on topics such as substance misuse, personal development, faith-based and lifestyle programs.
Adam said each session of the Cultural Connection program centres around a group discussion where participants are encouraged to share knowledge and ask questions they might find difficult in another context.
“This format provides an important opportunity for men to practise reflection and empathy and to experience the liberation of
vulnerability,” Adam said.
“It also allows for discussions on healing our mind, body and relationships and compliments the outcomes of existing drug and alcohol programs in encouraging healthy and wise decisions.”
Adam said one of the overarching aims of the course was to address the impact of inter-generational trauma, which has affected Aboriginal communities for decades.
“This has left some participants believing that going to prison is an unavoidable rite of passage,” Adam said.
“The truth is, it’s disconnection from Aboriginal culture that leads people to gaol and only the realignment with the values and wisdom of Elders can foster pride in culture and heal the spirit.”
While the program was written for Indigenous inmates, other men in the Drug Recovery Wing are invited to join and learn about Aboriginal culture in a safe environment where questions are encouraged.
“Reconciliation begins with acknowledging the traumas of our history and having honest conversations about the impacts of colonisation,” Adam said.
“One participant, a former police officer, acknowledged that if he’d known then what he’d learned in the sessions, his interactions with Aboriginal people would have been markedly different.”
Steve*, a proud Wiradjuri man, said he enjoyed learning about his culture and how to communicate better.
“I’ve always been very interested in culture since my mum told me she was Aboriginal,” Steve said.
“Culture and family is everything –we do everything for our family.
“Adam is a really good teacher and I learned a lot of communication skills and we practised doing it face-to-face.
“We spoke about alcohol, drugs, domestic violence and relationships, how to treat women and see our triggers.”
Steve has become a mentor to other inmates and has started making Indigenous art.
“If I see someone stressing out, I encourage them to do art,” Steve said.
“It’s good for mental health and to relax. Everything I’m stressing about, it fades away and I’m in another world.
“I try to be a mentor and look after the young blokes. It’s a good feeling when they thank you.
“I’m always trying to get something positive in where I am.”
*Name has been changed.
Cultural Connections Adam Nobilia & inmate.
JJ Nahlous captures the 2024 Michelin Supersport Title
THE final round of the mi-Bike Australian Superbike (ASBK), sponsored by Motul, was held at The Bend Raceway in South Australia over 8-10th November.
Jonathan (JJ) Nahlous (Glenwood) was the most successful overall of the western Sydney riders, finishing in the minor placings in each of his three races in the Michelin Supersport category, yet those results consolidated
his lead in the Series, allowing him to capture this year’s title.
Jack Farnsworth (Glenhaven) finished 7th for the round and 5th in the series, whilst Jack Favelle (Cattai) finished 10th for the round and 8th for the series.
It’s been a huge few weeks for JJ, who is stepping up to the Superbike class in 2025, with the MotoGo Yamaha Racing team, to ride a Yamaha YZF-R1M.
Speaking with MC News, JJ said “I can’t thank Patrick and the team at MotoGo enough for the opportunity to
race a Superbike next year. This season has already been amazing, I feel like I have grown so much as a rider and it’s only made me hungry for more.
“I’d like to also thank my family, particularly my dad, for helping so much in getting to this stage. I’m so excited and can’t wait to race the superbike!”
Elijah Andrew (Marayong) was also in action at The Bend, racing in both the ShopYamaha R3 Cup and the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup (OJC).
Elijah finished 18th for the round and 12th for the series in the R3, and
10th for the round and 9th for the series in the OJC.
Two debutantes in the OJC safely completed their first season, with Zac Russo (Sackville North) finishing 20th for the round and 15th for the series and Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) 21st for the round and 18th for the series.
Footnote: JJ has also won the ‘2024 Road Race Male Rider of the Year’ award at the Motorcycling NSW Awards night, which was held on Saturday night at the Bankstown Sports Club.
Four local juniors to contest prestigious Bonville Champions trophy
THREE western Sydney junior golfers have automatically qualified for the JNJG Bonville Champions Trophy, which is a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) and Golf Australia Junior Order of Merit (GA OOM) event.
Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC), Chayse Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC) and Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC) have all qualified in the Boys division.
Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC) has qualified in the Girls division, whilst her club-mate Annoushka Maikap is a Reserve.
The tournament will be played at Bonville Golf Resort over the 3-5th December and is by invitation only, with players qualifying by having won a Jack Newton Junior Golf Tour event throughout the 2023/24 season.
The tournament will be played over 72 Holes in three days, from Tuesday 3rd to Thursday 5th December 2024. There will be a cut after 54 holes and all players who miss the cut will be required to caddie for someone in the final round.
The JNJG Brett Ogle Junior Masters was held at Goulburn GC over 16-17th November, with the four western Sydney juniors all gaining Top Ten finishing positions.
Marie-Clair Domingo (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finish tied 7th outright in the Girls division, and 3rd in the Girls 16 & Over category. Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished tied 9th outright and tied 4th in the Girls 16 & Over category.
Enzo Moon (Lynwood CC) finished tied 7th outright in the Boys division, and tied 3rd in Boys 16 & Over, whilst Hunter McMillan (Dunheved GC) finished 45th outright and 10th in the 13 & Under boys.
Kayun Mudadana wins NextGEN Amateur Tour World Final
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Concord GC) finished in a tie for 4th spot, shooting rounds of 70/75/75, ahead of Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) in a tie for 25th with 84/80/68, Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC) in a tie for 28th after shooting 76/78/79), Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge GC) tied 39th with 80/85/72, Blake Hodges (Erskine Park
/ NSW GC) tied 39th with 80/80/77, Joshua Beardsmore (Lynwood CC) tied 58th and Sean Sammons (Stonecutters Ridge) in 63rd.
Coby also finished 4th in the 18-25 Male division, ahead of Kade tied 30th, Blake tied 30th and Josh tied 37th.
Ti finished 5th in U18 Males, ahead of Darcy in 6th and Sean in 25th.
In the Female division, former western Sydney junior Camilla Kim (The Australian) finished 6th with 79/78/76, whilst Michelle Yang (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished 23rd with 89/87/87.
Camilla also finished 3rd in the U18 Female division, whilst Michelle finished 9th in the 18-25 ranks.
THE 2024 NextGEN Amateur Tour World Final was held over 54 holes at Commonwealth GC (VIC) on 18-19th November, with Sydney golfer Kayun Mudadana finishing a clear winner of the Male division by 6 shots.
Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs /
BY NOEL ROWSELL
2024 Michelin Supersport Champion JJ Nahlous - photos courtesy of Pit Lane Studio
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Chayse Thorpe & Ti Fox in action this year. File photos by Noel Rowsell
Rooty Hill gymnasts impress on international debut
AGROUP of gymnasts based at Rooty Hill has made a triumphant debut on the world stage.
All three teams from the Australian Aesthetic Group Gymnastics Federation, based at Rooty Hill Leisure Centre, reached the finals of the Hong Kong Cup International Rhythmic Gymnastics Invitation Championship in October.
The sport involves 6-10 gymnasts performing coordinated routines and moves such as dance steps, jumping and lifts.
In Hong Kong, each team from Rooty Hill finished in the top 5 in its age group.
The tournament was highly competitive and attracted more than 800 gymnasts from more than 15 countries.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was delighted by the results.
“It is great that the athletes we are producing in Blacktown City are
matching it with the world’s best,” he said.
“The team at Rooty Hill works tirelessly to bring their sport into the spotlight and I look forward to seeing participation grow,” he said.
The gymnasts are long-term
The venue includes a dance studio room and matufa floor previously used at the Commonwealth Games. Gymnasts from across Australia often
compete at Rooty Hill Leisure Centre as part of national championships.
The Australian Aesthetic Group Gymnastics Federation is preparing its teams for their next major competition, the Four Continents event in Canada in 2025.
Andre Stolz capturessecond Australian PGA Senior Title at Richmond
QUEENSLAND’S Andre Stolz has won the Nova Employment Australian PGA Senior Championship for a second time, after a final round 64 saw him finish on 17-under-par, five shots clear of the fast finishing Mat Goggin and defending champion Jason Norris – both finishing at 12-under-par.
The tournament was held at the picturesque Richmond golf course for the 10th consecutive year, with the weather behaving and bright sunny conditions giving the players free rein to bombard the course with some spectacular golf.
Entering the final day with a two shot lead over Norris, and a five stroke advantage to a pack of players, including Goggin at 7-under, Stolz overcame a couple of back nine hiccups to lift the trophy for the second time, having also won the title in 2020.
“I think obviously these last two weeks are our biggest two events of the year,” said Stolz.
“I know I’ve won a lot of events on this (Legends) Tour, and I’ve won the Order of Merit the last three years and I’m leading again this year, and winning all those events is great, but these are the ones that we all want.
“It’s like people talk about majors for the young guys and all that sort of stuff, but these are our biggest two events. So absolutely these are the two to win. And being the senior PGA
champion is pretty special.
“I like this golf course. I know it’s super demanding, and you’ve got to drive the ball great, and if you do, you can make a ton of birdies.
“I’ve been telling everybody I talk to about it, just got to drive it well and you’re going to have plenty of opportunities to make some birdies.”
The victory and pay cheque are a helpful cash injection as Stolz prepares to head stateside to try and join the large contingent of Australians on the world’s premier over-50s Tour.
“It’s just really good timing,” he said. “Obviously this time of the year is pretty much peak season for us. It’s a big expense to blow for a week, but we’ll go and roll the dice.”
Joining Stolz in Phoenix in the hope of securing playing rights will be Goggin, who will no doubt leave his tournament debut with plenty of positives after sharing runner-up honours with Norris.
Last week’s NSW Senior Open winner David McKenzie continued his good form, finishing 4th on 11-under, with Peter Lonard a shot further back.
PGA of Australia Legends Tour Coordinator Andy Rogers also confirmed at the presentation the Australian PGA Senior Championship would again be held at Richmond for the next two years.
residents at Rooty Hill Leisure Centre, owned by Blacktown City Council.
Photo courtesy of Michelle Dennington / Richmond Club.
2024 Nova Employment Australian PGA Senior Championship winner Andre Stolz is presented with the winner’s trophy by The Richmond Club’s Group Operations Manager Craig Hodge.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Peter Lonard
Matthew Goggin (Tied 2nd)
Jason Norris (Tied 2nd)
HSRCA Race Meeting at SMSP honours legend Kevin Barlett
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WAYNE Wilson, President of the Historic Sports and Racing Car Association reports “It’s the Grand Finale of 2024’s historic motor racing season –the HSRCA’s 2024 Summer Festival, featuring Formula Ford & Group S Enduro, plus all other historic categories, Modern Regularity (up to 2010) and Super Sprint competitions.
“Our very special guest this weekend will be Kevin Bartlett, who is generously joining us from his home in Queensland. Kevin was a champion in many disciplines in the golden era of motor racing, winning the Gold Star in the Australian Drivers’ Championship back to back in 1968 and ‘69, as well as the 1974 Bathurst 1000 with codriver John Goss, and the 1969 Macau Grand Prix.
“Racing touring cars over two decades, he was also the first person to set a 100 mile an hour lap at Bathurst, among many other achievements.
“”We have organised a dinner on Saturday night at the Alpha Hotel, where we can hear some of the stories direct from the man who wrote ‘Big Rev Kev’, including of the many cars he drove faster than most, from Morris Minors to Formula 5000s to BMW 635s and the Channel 9 Camaro. We will have some of those cars on display over the weekend (at SMSP).
“We look forward to the Group S enduro, a feature for Formula Ford, and of course events for all historic classes (subject to minimum entries).”
Spectator tickets: https://events.humanitix. com/2024-hsrca-summer-festival?c=fb
HSRCA Action from SMSP. Photos by Noel Rowsell
