Westernnews 23june2017

GREATER WEST TREE SERVICE Palm removal Tree removal Tree pruning Stump grinding Mulch sales Fully insured

MULCH SALES 4m2 for $50

Western Sydney Tree Service For a FREE quote ring us 7 days

0403 537 333

free

Western News PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Friday, 23 June 2017

ISSUE 37

Check out our website www.wsnewsgroup.com

Butt out

2

localnews

Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

History prize open for 2017

By Keegan Thomson

HISTORY buffs of all ages are being encouraged to enter the Blacktown City Mayoral History Prize which has a prize pool of $1,500.

The competition is now in its ninth year and it aims to encourage an interest in the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Blacktown City area.

Mayor of Blacktown, Councillor Stephen Bali says the History Prize has a lot to offer for the people of the city.

“The History Prize is not only a great way to learn about the city we live in, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to share that knowledge with others,” said Cr Bali.

“I really enjoy being involved with the prize because each year I always learn something new about our city and those who live in it,” he said.

The rules are simple. Entrants must live, attend school or belong to a community group in the Blacktown City area, with all participants receiving a certificate of achievement.

Topics covered in last year’s winning entries included the history of Rooty Hill School of Arts, the Grantham Heritage Parklands and the changing landscape of Blacktown City.

There are three categories of entry 17 years and over, Year 7-9 and Year 10-12 total prize money $250. If your school or community organisation is in the Blacktown City area, they will receive $250.

Mayor Bali said he was looking forward to seeing what Blacktown’s budding historians come up with.

“Any topic can be chosen, as long it’s about the history and heritage of the Council area,” he said.

“We also welcome entries with an indigenous focus or theme, given Blacktown’s rich indigenous history.”

All entries have a permanent place in the history of the city: they are added to the local history collection at Blacktown City Libraries.

The winning entry in each section is added to Blacktown Memories on the library’s website.

Entries are open until Monday ,31 July 2017.

Email entries to council@blacktown.nsw.gov.au

TURTLE NURSERY AND LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES All materials available in 20kg Bags Specialising in 1 tonne Bulka-Bags

DELIVERIES 7 DAYS OPEN 7 DAYS • Decorative Gravels • Nepean River • Griffith Red • Cowra, White & Gold • Charcoal • Crushed Tile • Aussie Brown • Scoria Red & White • Blue Metal • Road Base • Sand 14 Types

• Recycled Aggregates • Bush Rock • Sandstone Flagging • Cements • Softfall (Play Ground) • Pine Bark • Coloured Wood Chip • Eucalyptus Mulch • Hardwood Chip • Softwood Chip • Leaf Mulch

• Cypress Wood Chip • Top Soil • Organic Garden Mix • Premium Garden Mix • 80/20 Top Dressing • Organic Top Dressing • Filling Sand • Turf Underlay • Mushroom Compost • Treated Pine Sleepers

Cnr Windsor & Rouse Rds

Cnr Racecourse & Blacktown Rds

ROUSE HILL Phone: 9629 2299

SOUTH WINDSOR Phone: 4574 3299

TURF AVAILABLE:

• SIR WALTER • EUREKA KIKUYU • NULLARBOR COUCH

FIREWOOD AVAILABLE blocks and pavers 400x400 pavers $6.80 each

huge range of Nursery plants at discount prices

Rouse Hill only www.turtlenursery.com.au

NSW budget delivers new schools and roads

By Keegan Thomson

THE 2017 New South Wales budget has been announced and there are big spends for local schools and infrastructure upgrades across the region.

The Berejiklian government will spend a staggering $4.2 billion on schools across the state with many in the western Sydney region benefiting from the extra cash splash.

Parramatta West Public School, Pendle Hill Public School, Quakers Hill Public School, Riverbank Primary School, Samuel Gilbert Public School, Schofields Public School, Richmond High and Riverstone High will all receive upgrades to help facilitate more students and improve learning capacities.

Marsden Park and Jordan Springs will receive new primary schools, which will host some 2000 students between them. North Kellyville will also receive a new 1000 student primary school.

There will also be major upgrades to a not-yet-specified school in the Seven Hills electorate, which will help accommodate more students in the region.

On a state level the upgrades and

spending will create some 32,000 new places for school children and some 1,500 new classrooms.

The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, said the government now has its sights set on boosting the standards of education in New South Wales.

“The NSW government is already building the roads, public transport and other hard infrastructure we need – now it’s time for a huge investment in the social infrastructure we need, including schools,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“In this year’s budget, we are committing more funding to the construction of new schools and

more school upgrades than Labor did in their last 11 years of office combined,” she said.

The MP for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly, said the big spends in local education will greatly benefit the students and families of the area.

“Not only is the Government continuing its record investments in transport and hospital infrastructure but this year’s budget sees record education investment added to that list,” Mr Conolly said.

“In Riverstone there are funds committed to build two new primary schools, extra classrooms for four existing local schools, extended bus

services, ongoing work on upgrading Schofields Road, the Denmark Link Road at Riverstone and a new fire station at Marsden Park. And of course the North West Metro is on track to open in 2019,” he said.

Western Sydney will also reap the benefits of the state government’s $1 billion investment in road projects across the region.

Another $21 million has been allocated for planning of the M12 motorway, while $2 million has been set aside for planning of the Outer Sydney Orbital.

There will also be improved bus services between Marsden Park, Rouse Hill, Blacktown and Riverstone.

But not everyone is singing the praise of the 2017 state budget, with Labor MP for Londonderry, Prue Car calling on the government to fast track the new school’s in the region.

“Today’s budget gives us absolutely no detail on when construction will be finished,” Ms Car said.

“With cost of living only set to get worse thanks to the new M4 toll, local residents have a right to ask - if this government has got so much money in the bank, why is life under the Liberals and Nationals getting harder, not easier,” she said.

3 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

localnews

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

4 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

Western News Office: (02) 9834 5579 General Manager: Editor: Sales: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Keegan Thomson 0421 382 560 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Kennedi Geyer 0452 455 844 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

Distribution Map Western News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

Vineyard Riverstone Rouse hill Marsden Park Kellyville Ridge

Schofields Shanes Park Colebee

Ropes Crossing

Quakers Hill

Hassall Grove

St Marys

Dean Park

Emerton

Stanhope Gardens Parklea

Kings Park Plumpton

Marayong

Kings Langley

Woodcroft

Lalor Park

Mt Druitt Rooty Hill Minchinbury

Blacktown

Seven Hills

Arndell Park Toongabbie

Eastern Creek

Prospect

Western News

Advertising Representative Required Western News is looking for someone to join our team!

Flexible hours Great commission

Please email your CV to:

nepeannews@aol.com

From the General Manager’s Desk

by Bart Bassett

Ever-increasing energy cost As we have heard recently electricity and gas prices are about to skyrocket from July 1. It is hard to believe that in a country with so much coal and gas reserves we have allowed ourselves to be dragged down a path of demonising coal, which in the end has created massive increases in the cost of energy for everybody; whether you are a business or residential user.

The left-leaning leadership at all levels in politics in Australia have pushed power prices up by demonising coal use in this country and mining companies have developed a strategy of selling to overseas customers where they have guaranteed markets. Gas resources are here but anti-mining campaigners are doing all they can to stop or delay the use of natural resources. How can Labor continue to side with The Greens policy of being anti-coal and anti-gas, which in turn hurts Labor’s base in areas like western Sydney by pushing power prices up!

How did Labor fall into this Greens socialist vortex and the coalition has not been strong enough to campaign against it?

The incredible thing is the politicians and activists who argue for renewables to address carbon emissions force costs up for the very people they also say they stand up for, yes the struggling person on a pension or low income earner, the older person and single parents huddling around a bar heater trying to stay warm. That’s if they are lucky enough to afford to run that, otherwise it’s blankets and off to bed early to save energy consumption, sounds more like a third world existence to me!

Australian leadership across the board and the elite left seem to be working for the same side, the out-of-touch elite on all sides of politics!

I am really tired of the left in this country trying to drag all sides of politics to their way of thinking. Our politicians should represent everyone, we should all believe in fairness and true equity and allowing energy prices to be out of control is unforgivable.

Forget the BS political argument about renewable energy targets etc when Australia has a minuscule effect compared to the rest of the world. Let’s fight for the majority of our population who want affordable energy, jobs and to look after the environment, but all should be considered when making policy decisions.

As I have said in a previous column, the Australian public including the business community have seen energy prices balloon out of control because of the way our cheapest form of energy, that being coal, has been demonised

by The Greens and their supporting cohort. What should have happened was to use advanced technology in coal fire power stations whilst at the same time support the renewable energy industry whilst it improved, rather than trying to rely on an immature technology.

We as a nation export high quality black coal to many countries including Japan, India and China which combined are building 100s of new coal fired power stations using the latest technology of high energy, low emissions (HELE) generators to reduce emissions to the lowest levels ever seen in coal fire power stations.

Many countries are investing in their future energy needs while at the same time here in Australia we are shutting down coal fire power stations and using much more expensive gas-fired power stations and renewables; which in the end feeds into every increasing energy prices for all of us.

With our energy bills about to increase significantly it is crisis time for our decision-makers to have an energy policy which takes into consideration all factors including cost, environment and energy security. This should be rather than being led by the nose down a Greens philosophical path which will have us all living in a society with expensive power and dwindling jobs. As more manufacturers move offshore as energy costs become so exorbitant, they can no longer compete on the world stage if they remain in Australia.

When your energy bills start to arrive soon and you shake your head in disbelief, just remember it was brought to you by the fanatical Greens and weak leadership from the major political parties, it’s called policy ineptitude.

Your thoughts? bartebassett@gmail.com

Westmead nurse goes outback to raise funds Surviving Suicide

Westmead Hospital acting nursing unit manager (surgical high dependency unit) Suzanne Stevens is preparing to navigate outback Australia in a 70s Holden – all in the name of charity.

Suzanne and her partner attend the annual Kidzfix Rally, driving outback Australia in a vintage Holden to raise money to help sick kids in rural hospitals.

Since taking up the cause, the couple have helped fund several pieces of vital equipment, including a NETS ambulance for the Shoalhaven area and a palliative care bed for Gympie Children’s Hospital.

This year, the pair are raising money for Dubbo Children’s

Hospital by driving from Ballina to Dubbo in September.

Suzanne said this year’s funds would be spent on 10 NeoPuff Paediatric Ventilation units, a Bilbi Therapy Lights blanket for jaundice babies and a parent bed, which would allow a parent or guardian to sleep alongside their child when they have to stay overnight for treatment.

Suzanne and her partner raise $4500 annually to take part in the rally.

They are hosting a harbour cruise fundraiser on August 26, 2017, meeting at Cargo Bar in Darling Harbour.

The fundraiser is $85 per person with a meal.

For more information, visit www.kidzfix.com.au

‘A safe and therapeutic support group for people whose lives have been impacted by suicide’ Fortnightly FREE Support group at Hawkesbury House partnering with Western Sydney Suicide Prevention and Support Network Time 9.30am to 11.30am Hawkesbury House www.hawkesburyhouse.com 6 Christie Street Windsor The groups will meet on the following date: June 27 July 11 and 25 Aug 8 and 22 Sep 5 and 19 Oct 3 and 31 Nov 14 and 28 Dec 12 RSVP is appreciated on 02 4577 6454.

Readers requiring support or information about suicide prevention can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

5 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

localnews

Est 1971

 LOCAL  COUNTRY  INTERSTATE  OFFICE REMOVALS AND STORAGE AVAILABLE PO Box 850 Kings Langley NSW 2147

Ph. 9622 5518 Fax. 9676 8511 Email: enquiries@gandsremovals.com.au www.gandsremovals.com.au

6

localnews

Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

Kangatraining wins the National Award for second year running The prestigious “What’s On 4 Kids 2017 Awards” sponsored by Di Bella Coffee have just been awarded.

Kangatraining Australia has claimed the Award for Best Pre/Post Natal Activity for the second year running.

Amy Niciforovic, who runs classes at Lalor Park Community Hub on Mondays and out of the hall at Grantham Heights Uniting Church in Seven Hills on Thursdays was elated about the national recognition.

These national industry awards are presented by Australia’s leading “What’s On 4 Kids” business – What’s On 4. The national awards celebrate and showcase the outstanding hard work, determination and achievements of many small businesses across Australia that are dedicated to giving children a strong foundation in activities such as sport, music and arts.

Winners are determined by community votes and judging, meaning all winners are determined based on merit.

Kangatraining Australia winning the ‘Best Pre/Post Natal activities’ category, for the second year running, is an incredible achievement.

The awards received over 1,400 nominations over 18 categories and 52,000 votes, which indicates the

support from parents for these awards, and reflects their eagerness to reward the very best businesses.

Kangatraining is unique because it allows mother and baby to exercise together. It’s a complete workout for mums, but unlike traditional classes, new mums don’t need to worry about finding a babysitter as they carry their babies on them while they’re doing the workout.

This safe and effective program was designed specifically for postnatal mothers, which incorporates just the right amount of cardio and strength training when returning to exercise after pregnancy. It concentrates on restrengthening the abdominal area and pelvic floor muscles, whilst tending to those tight areas from daily life with

a baby.

There are so many benefits associated with Kangatraining, including: • Promoting a closer bond between mother and baby.

• Social interaction and meeting new friends. No need to leave your baby with a minder, your baby is part of the action and loves being involved throughout the workout.

• Feel good endorphins from exercising assists with postnatal depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation and making new mothers feel more positive and happy.

• Baby wearing education from each qualified Kangatrainer assists with mothers learning how to safely and correctly carry their baby.

The G Spot

The end of financial year to a business owner is like one of those greedy fat kids in Charlie and the chocolate factory, Officeworks is like watching R rated movies on a Saturday night. You snow-fairy in the manila folder isle for hours…. Oh, the colours, the colours as you groan like Meg Ryan in When Harry met Sally.

Now before you think we are all driving Ferraris and smoking cigars through 100 dollar notes, being a small business owner is stressful stuff. I reckon Dan Murphy’s should have a “Business Owners Isle” with 2 Litre wines right to go. You see all these people in self-induced comas just walking like the characters in the Walking Dead slothing like wounded bears as they come closer to the red wine, then smile and giggle with a baby laugh hugging that bottle like a saint has blessed it.

So why do we do it? Why do we love the stress, the long hours the holiday-less years (if there is such a

word) why is it that we can’t pluck this monster that we have created from our nipples?

Taking a three-day break is like organising a break in at the Reserve Bank, it requires as much organisation and precision, with planning and implementing like a crazed maniac just to get away from the monster/ second marriage.

Yep you got it, we business owners have affairs every day, because you see, the business is the love and hate of our lives and anyone that says it’s all wine and roses, seriously needs to smell the friggn roses. So, okay before all you non- believers boo and hiss at this column and say “what is she complaining for, she’s rich!”

However, before you send the wild dogs out, we small business owners work very long hours. Shucks look at me now its 1am and here I am writing a column and bitching about business… (I just paid the bills online). Yay!!!! Yeah, I know suck it

Sarah Tarrant, Australia’s country leader talked about how important the program is for mothers and their babies.

“I am so proud of our Kangatraining Team, and to win this award for the second year in a row just goes to show how important this program has been to mums and bubs all over Australia.

Becoming a mother is such a beautiful yet busy time, and knowing we have trainers out there who support, motivate and inspire mums to exercise, have fun and bond with their babies is such a positive step forward on so many levels.”

If you are interested in taking part in Kangatraining locally, Amy Niciforovic can be contacted on 0409 305 782.

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

up Princess.

So, what is the “us and them” mentality? We can’t do without each other, the employer and employee.

You hear employees talking about the boss not giving them time off, knocking back holidays and the list goes on and in the other room the employer is complaining because the employer has just asked for time off and holidays during the busiest time.

Where’s the win-win we all shout!

The answer is simple, there isn’t one.

Whilst one may give in and the other gets what they want ultimately deep down someone ends up unhappy, The Business. This inanimate object that requires more love and attention than any human ever needed.

I love all these people that think that opening a business is the answer to instant success and money. Wrong, Fail, see ya! Okay yes there have been a few that invented the pointy end on a toothpick, 4 ply toilet paper with perfumed scent and love hearts

printed on it, and plastic bit that dogs chew on shoelaces, living billion dollars lifestyles with Hugh Heffner’s bunnies on speed dial, but they are few and far between. I laugh at these business coaches that do business seminars about the secret to success and fortune and I think then why are you selling tickets and holding it at a bowling club on a Thursday at Lunchtime? Guess I am off the free ticket list now….

So, whilst I may ponder and pick the fluff out of my navel as a humble small business owner. I will throw this to you as I finish up (hang on let me grab my soap box) Small business (as crazy as it sounds) is the biggest employer in the entire of Australia!

Not BHP, Not Aldi, not that cheap bulk joint in Lidcombe …. Small Business. So, the next time you see a small business go in and say Hi. PS, No Employer or Employee was injured during the writing of this column.

KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL

6 months free

1300 SECURITY ML No. 405714685

back to base monitoring*

www.nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au

* new connections

Super Marie to take on marathon for dad and brother Marie White, from Blacktown Hospital’s Cancer and Haemataology Centre, is one fierce lady.

In September this year, the St Clair resident will be running the Western Sydney Marathon at the Penrith Regatta Centre.

The vibrant 52-year-old and admin team leader will take on the whole 42.2km with a vengeance, in honour of her father and brother who lost their lives from cancer.

“My dad passed away from lung cancer in 2014 and my brother passed way from oesophageal cancer last year,” she said.

“My way of dealing with grief is to take action. I don’t want anyone else to go through what my dad and brother went through.

“I don’t want a cure. I want the elimination of cancer. I want a way to stop people from ever getting cancer in the first place. I want testing to be able to stop anyone having to get it ever again.”

Ms White has been training for the marathon, running three times a week, stretching and conducting strength and core training.

“Even if I have to crawl over that line I will do it, I just want to make a difference.”

To support Marie in the Western Sydney Marathon, visit: https://acrfrun. everydayhero.com/au/marie-whitemarathon-2017

Free Morning Tea “You are Invited to come to a Free morning tea at Riverstone Uniting Church, corner of Garfield Road and Oxford Street, Riverstone on Tuesday 27th June 2017, commencing at 9 – 30 am. The speaker will be Vicki Case speaking on “Criminal Profiling” .

Further information (02) 4572 3271 or at bruce.mcalpine5@bigpond.com Come along and bring your friends.”

Discover the secret to pawfect dog behaviour at Woof-fest

Australia’s leading dog behaviourist and author, Laura V, will teach you how to achieve paw-fect dog behaviour using her mindful new training approach, Dognitive Therapy, at Woof-fest in Bungarribee Park on 25 June from 9am to 1pm.

Laura will share tips on how to better understand your dog’s behaviour and, more importantly, how to change it using real-life case studies, exercises and practical advice from her new book Dognitive Therapy.

Dognitive Therapy is the first method that changes a relationship between human and dog; starting with the human.

Based on successful principles of dog-training and psychology, Laura will demonstrate how making small changes in behaviour can have a big impact on both you and your canine companion.

Laura said, “Your bond with your dog is incredibly powerful and rewarding, but it is also an instructive relationship. Your dog’s behaviour is directly affected and influenced by your own. To change your dog’s behaviour, first you must change yours”.

“My Dognitive Therapy method will inspire you to take a closer look at your own life to improve your

relationship with your dog for good,” said Laura.

Woof-fest is a fun, free, community event for all ages, which will feature an impressive line-up of live entertainment including talks by expert veterinarian Dr Peter Higgins, training techniques from Farmer Dave Graham, advice from Sydney-based animal trainer Ryan Tate and cooking demonstrations by Pet Nutritionist Naoko Okamoto from Chew Chew Pet Restaurant.

Other highlights include: 50+ doggie themed stalls, Sydney Psychos Fly-Ball champions, Siberian Express All Breeds Sled Dog Club

NSW, Search for the Next SuPaw Model dog fashion parade, free youand-your-pooch face painting, 101 Dalmatians Jumping Castle, portraits

by Caricature artist Peter Byrne and information stalls from Guide Dogs and RSPCA. Entry to Woof-fest is FREE for dogs and their humans. FREE parking is available on site.

Warrigal Run is located within Western Sydney Parklands. Entry is via the intersection of Holbeche and Doonside Roads, Bungarribee.

For more information about Woof-fest, please visit: www. westernsydneyparklands.com.au

7 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

localnews

8

localnews

Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

Getting to know....

Butts out in Blacktown

Stuart Ayres Minister for Western Sydney, WestConnex and Sport with Conner Lowe

1. What was your first paid job?

Delivering the local newspaper 2. What is your guilty pleasure?

Almost any form of Cadbury Chocolate.

3. What is your biggest fear/phobia and why?

Not keen on wasps.

4. What is your worst habit?

Bit of a workaholic...

5. Best advice you have ever been given?

You have 2 ears and 1 mouth, use them in that ratio.

6. If you only had $50 left in the bank, how would you spend it?

A day at the races with Marise.

7. Favourite holiday destination and why?

Anywhere in Australia. Best food, wine and local stories in the world.

8. Do you have a favourite sporting team?

Penrith Panthers 9. Name one reason that you love Western Sydney?

The authenticity of its people and I just love it’s no BS attitude to life.

10. In three words, describe your perfect Sunday?

Breakfast with Marise.

BLACKTOWN City Council is using street art to encourage smokers to butt out responsibly in the Blacktown CBD. Western Sydney artist Anton Pulvirenti has created superhero-themed artworks in five locations across the city in an aim to stop smokers from littering around the busiest parts of the city.

“I wanted to put a positive spin on the message so the smoker would feel like a hero for putting the butt in the bin, rather than feeling bad for leaving it on the ground,” Mr Pulvirenti said.

“The images and words aim to empower the smoker and act as a trigger to encourage them to think about their behaviour.”

One of the images, located at 42 Main Street, made using acrylic paint, depicts a female superhero and contains the message: ‘Be a local hero. Bin your butts’.

Another artwork shows a whale made up of litter and butts washing down a drain, spruiking the slogan: ‘All drains lead to the ocean. Put it in the bin’.

“The piece aims to make people aware the stormwater system is Blacktown’s direct link to the ocean,” Mr Pulvirenti said.

“Litter dropped in Blacktown CBD washes down the drain, along Breakfast Creek, into the Hawkesbury River and then into the ocean.

“Once in contact with water, cigarette butts release hazardous chemicals which are toxic to some aquatic life.”

Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali, said the project aims to encourage smokers to dispose of their butts responsibly in the butt bins.

“Cigarette butts make up 36 per cent of all litter and are our biggest and longest lasting problem,” Cr Bali said.

“Because they are made from cellulose acetate and are not biodegradable, they can remain in the environment for up to 10 years.

“This project is about encouraging people to do the right thing through one of the most effective platforms available to us: public street art.”

The project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.

The artworks are the final element of the project, which included installing ‘Butt it and bin it’ signs around the 75 butt bins in Blacktown CBD and a cigarette butt ballot on Main Street.

The artworks will remain for the next few weeks or until they wear off.

The streets are alive

By Ben Cranney

Maybe I just notice it more because I’m not doing everyday life, but other places seem to have better street life than us - performers, markets, food, or even just impromptu gatherings.

I’ve had dinner with sand people, climbed street art and walked around Super Mario themed sandcastles in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I’ve been attacked by gargoyles on La Rambla in Barcelona. I’ve watched a parade of hundreds of dancers and musicians weave their way through moving traffic on the busiest road of Bolivia’s capital, bringing the city

to a standstill. I’ve been regaled by a folk band in Serbia, watched an impromptu dance off on the corner of a Washington DC street, and forced myself not to join in with old ladies dancing to 80s aerobics music in the middle of Beijing.

My favourites are things I can interact with. There was a guy in a tux in London, back to a massive crowd, still as a statue and holding out a pair of sunglasses. I put a few pound in to see what he’d do. Before I knew it, I had the sunnies on and a sword in hand, holding a low and wide swing in a lunge position. The performer was bent over backwards under it,

ducking my blow, as if we were in an epic battle through central London.

Not sure how I held that lunge for 5 minutes and then walked away without a tremor in my leg. Or how my pants didn’t split.

There seems to be a bit of etiquette on how tourists should be involved.

You can sometimes get further if you try to be aware of what your involvement might mean to the locals. Ladies working in a witch’s market in South America had to put up with cameras in their faces while they tried to work (I like to think they had a hex for that). And girl passing through St Lucia did some awkward

dance-posing with a local fellow at the weekend street party, seemingly to show the camera that she was immersed in the local culture. Of course, if you’re paying someone, maybe for a shamanistic blessing near the same witch’s market, there’s less reason to be camera shy.

You’re probably thinking, why don’t I go for a wonder down Pitt Street, or around Circular Quay and see the street performers there. I wonder if we have more fun police here, but perhaps I should do some research and check. Watch this space.

Brave Ziad runs out with the blues

By Conner Lowe

WHEN the blues took to the field for the second state of origin on Wednesday night, one of our bravest local heroes was running the ball.

Picked ahead of all options across the state, Ziad was chosen following a great pitch from Penrith Junior League General Manager, Phil Cummings.

It was only last year that St Clair youngster Ziad Soltani was found with an inoperable brain tumour during a routine MRI after an injury he sustained playing rugby league.

This was a shock to everyone who knew Ziad and who was involved with the St Clair Comets, but most devastated were Ziad’s parents, Trudie and Amin.

There was only one doctor who would operate on Ziad and that was Dr Charlie Teo, but they had to raise $100,000 in five days to fund the surgery. The money was raised and the surgery has now been completed by Dr Charlie Teo and Ziad is currently free from the brain tumour.

Family friend for many years, Krissy Stimpson, was with Ziad when he first sustained the injury that led to further testing and she knew instinctively that

something wasn’t quite right.

“I’ve known Ziad for many years, he and my son are best friends,” Krissy said.

“When he came off the field he didn’t look well. I’ve seen him soldier on after getting hurt before so this time he seemed different. After he threw up, I knew it was cause for concern but thought he had concussion.”

Just months after the surgery Ziad has got back on the field to play the sport that he loves. Ziad took to the field for the St Clair Comets and loved every second of the game that he was told he would never play again.

Krissy spoke about how excited Ziad was to get back on the field and how he is doing after his surgery.

“Ziad was super excited to get back out on the field and play with his teammates,” she said.

“He is doing okay, he has good days but still struggles with some issues, although he is tumour free, he still has side effects and there are also new issues arising because of the surgeries he received.”

Krissy also spoke about how Ziad’s parents felt about him playing rugby league again and about all the donations that were made to help the surgery become a reality.

“There are no words that can accurately sum up what that means.

Ziad was going to die, he has his life thanks to those who donated, whether it was $500, $5 or 50c, every single

9 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

localnews

donation contributed to saving his life and words can never express the gratitude Ziad and all of those who love him have for the people that helped us save him,” she said.

“Ziad’s parents are happy he is here and is lucky enough to be doing what he wants considering 11 months ago they were told he would be completely paralysed by now, but at the same time nervous as they almost lost their son, and he insists on being out on the field playing such high contact sport.”

Ziad is still recovering from all the surgeries and side effects that come with the medication that he was on, however, he is still able to run out on the field for his St Clair Comets.

MAXIMUM SERVICE...

MINIMUM FUSS...

• AIRPORT TRANSFERS • CRUISE SHIP TRANSFERS • WEDDINGS • HENS & BUCKS PARTIES • CORPORATE FUNCTIONS • GOLF/BOYS DAY OUT • GIRLS NIGHT OUT • CHRISTMAS FUNCTIONS

LET US BE YOUR PLAN B www.maxibuses.com E: ellen@maxibuses.com P: 4729 0666

10

localnews

Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

MP moves to Queen Street

 Ryan Park MP, Prue Car MP and Mayor John Thain.

By Keegan Thomson

LOCAL MP for Londonderry Prue Car has moved from her Werrington MP office to a shiny new office in downtown St Marys.

Ms Car’s new office, situated about halfway down Queen street, was opened last Friday by special guest Shadow Treasurer Ryan Park, Mayor

John Thain and around 40 of her supporters.

Ms Car said the move would put her in the “beating heart of the wonderful electorate of Londonderry” and said the new office would help her continue serving the public.

“I’m really happy that we can be here servicing this community and all the other communities around us,” Ms Car said.

During the opening she also thanked

 Ms Car’s new office. Photos: Kennedi Geyer.

the efforts of the volunteers who’ve helped out her office and her election campaigns across the last few years.

“It is the supporters who’re regularly out there with myself consulting the local community at the mobile offices, the train stations or door knocking, making sure we are accessible to the community,” she said.

Special guest, Shadow Treasurer Ryan Park, spoke fondly about his

friendship with Ms Car over the last 12 months.

“I have seen her around the shadow cabinet table fighting for the people of Londonderry and the issues that matter out here,” Mr Park said.

“She is passionate about what she does. She tried whenever possible to walk in the shoes of her community,” he said.

Prue Car’s new office is located 154 Queens street, St Marys.

localnews

Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

Acts that keep on giving

By Keegan Thomson

CHRISTMAS Day, 2016, one brave and generous woman lost her battle with brain

cancer.

Rouse Hill resident, Elizabeth Fahey was 68 years old and has been described by her neighbour Stella Fisk as “a beautiful lady” who had “a beautiful soul and a steal trap memory”.

In her eulogy to Ms Fahey, Ms Fisk recalled how the pair met.

“I met Elizabeth almost five years ago when she moved from Queensland back to Sydney and straight across the road from me and my hubby Stephen,” Ms Fisk wrote.

“I ended up being one of her carers and we started having Elizabeth come across the road for tea on Wednesday nights after work. As little as she was she could tuck away food like it was going out of fashion,” she said.

Ms Fisk brought the story to Western News because she wanted to highlight the wonderful woman that was Elizabeth Fahey, but she also gave us the story because of the ongoing impacts Ms Fahey life is having across the globe.

After Ms Fahey passed away she left behind a large number of belongings.

Ms Fisk searched high and low for a charity to donate the items left behind but she kept being turned away.

Not long after Ms Fahey passed away her friend Anne came to visit Ms Fisk. Anne is involved with Zonta, an international women’s

support organisation, and she offered to sort out and help arrange donations through the organisation.

Thanks to Zonta, Ms Fahey’s old bras were passed on to The Uplift Project, an organisation that supports women in disadvantaged communities where bras are unobtainable or unaffordable. The bras were sent to areas like Cambodia, Philippines, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea.

Ms Fahey’s underwear was passed on to Day For Girls, and organisation that teaches young girls and women about personal hygiene in poor communities across the world.

Most of Ms Fahey’s left over clothes were given to Zonta women’s refuges across Sydney. Some of her outfits were also passed on to Fitted For Work, a charity that helps disadvantaged and abused women get

into the workforce.

The crockery and linen were shared across other women’s refuges and homes, including the Out Lady Of The Way refuge, which helps shelter women over the age of 50 who’ve been victims of domestic violence.

Even Ms Fahey’s old tattered bath towels have found a home at the local RSPCA. Ms Fisk said it is very emotional to see all of her old friend’s items going off to better places.

“It brought back a lot of memories of Elizabeth,” Ms Fisk said.

“It makes me a lot happier, because it is hard to give things of Elizabeth’s away, but it is better to give them away to someone who really needs them than to hold onto them.

“It was always a bit emotional for me. She was a lovely lady full of

charity who had a love for life,” she said.

With her items going to some of the most needy people in the world, Ms Fisk said Ms Fahey would be proud to know where her old belongings were going to.

“She would be very happy knowing they’re going to someone else. She would much rather that happen than be tossed out,” Ms Fisk said.

“Elizabeth was a survivor, her first husband treated her badly, and knowing that they’re going to women’s shelters would make her happy.”

The one thing Ms Fisk learnt from the whole experience is that there are always people who’re willing to take donations.

“Don’t just say, oh well no one wants these, because people will take something no matter what it is,” she said. “They’re always happy for things, you just need to find the charities that will take them.”

Ms Fisk implores anyone who is interested in donating to Zonta, or is looking for assistance through Zonta, to contact them via their website https://foundation.zonta.org/.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel HAVE A LITTLE TRUST There are those who come to see a clairvoyant for a bit of a laugh or because they don’t like what the last clairvoyant has told them and they are looking for the answers they would like to have rather than what they have been told. However, generally the people who consult me have problems they need to sort out. The degree of these problems differs from comparatively trivial to heart-rending but they are all serious to my clients.

We must always remember that our clients are vulnerable and I will not give readings to anyone under the age of eighteen as younger people are on the whole, too impressionable. For this reason I must trust in my guides completely and not be tempted to give my own interpretation of the cards, especially when it is for someone I know quite well.

Just over a year ago, my darling friend Carmel called me. We had

originally met in London and then when she came back to Sydney, we lost touch. I was sad about this, especially missing the phone calls in the very early morning when she would hold the phone out of the window so I could hear the kookaburras. When I, in my turn, came to live in Australia, I was determined to find her. I tracked her down to the Cook Islands and we renewed our friendship as if we had spoken yesterday rather than ten years previously.

As you can imagine, I was very excited to get her call as that meant she was in Sydney - until I knew the reason why. Eighteen months before she had been misdiagnosed in the Cook Islands and was in fact suffering from stage four bowel cancer. I couldn’t believe it. My vibrant, colourful, larger than life friend was facing the fact that she had what might turn out to be a terminal

condition.

I went to see her in hospital after a couple of major operations and then arranged to meet her after she came home. “Bring your cards,” she said.

“I need a reading.”

Good grief! This poor lady was facing yet another operation and the doctors were worried her heart would give out during the procedure. What the heck were the cards going to say.

Anyway, I dutifully turned up in Redfern complete with cards. I shuffled the pack and put down the spread. Well, I couldn’t believe it.

What a wonderful spread! I could see a whole new future for her. Some sort of business in the islands that would be very successful and a lovely relationship. We were both a bit tearful, but I just had to put my trust in Gran.

She called me again this week. She was back in Sydney buying stock

11

for the amazing shop she has set up and which is doing very well and she had just been given the all clear for the cancer. The lovely man is yet to arrive, but I don’t think he will be long.

It just goes to show, no matter how bleak things look, trust in the spirit world. Who would have thought that that reading would be so accurate.

Thank you Gran and co for my lovely friend.

The Unintentional Medium is available online or at all good book stores.

westernhistory

12 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

The following article appeared in the Riverstone and District Historical Society Journal 98 Judith Lewis

C

Sam Lane

ecil Rhodes (Sam) Lane was born in Riverstone, in a house where the High School now stands, on 19th March 1902 to George and Marian Lane. He had a brother Harry, and three sisters Rita, Davina and Celia. Sam’s father then built a two roomed house in Garfield Road, later adding to the residence and building the bicycle shop. The first hand operated gasoline pump outside Parramatta was later installed. The house and shop still stand, almost opposite the junction with George Street and the shop is at present a barber’s shop.

Sam attended Riverstone Public School when it was in the building that is now the Blacktown City Bicentennial Museum. It was Sam’s description of the building that helped artist Pam Boyne sketch the building for the school’s centenary logo in 1983 as, at that stage, there was no known photo of the building. When a photo did surface it was a surprisingly accurate sketch, which is really not so surprising when one remembers how vivid Sam’s memory was.

As a youth Sam was a keen cyclist and also played Rugby League.

In 1931 he was a member of the Riverstone team which won the Western District A Grade Competition. He once listed his other likes as Shakespeare, Lawson, Omar Khyam, the Labor Party, singing, tennis and bowls.

At 13 years of age he worked as a delivery boy at Bambridges’ Store. Two years later he took up an apprenticeship in the motor trade, later transferring to lining and enamelling in the same trade. About 1922 he moved to Lithgow to drive heavy duty overhead cranes. He married Elizabeth Veitch in 1924 and they had one child, Jean. Sam and Elizabeth later divorced and 1927 saw him back in the Riverstone district.

Sam was an apprentice with Bennett & Wood as an Enameller & Liner, and became interested in cycle assembling. He set up a workshop in his father’s shop on a part time basis. Frames were bought in parts and then front and back forks etc would be brazed together. This involved building a forge and when lit and very hot, a substance called flux was applied and this had the effect of welding the parts together.

The complete frame would be sandpapered to smooth the joins and later painted, lined with scrolls and fancy lines and then completely assembled. The brand name sold by Sam was Rivone (obviously part Riverstone).

Sam married Mavis Butterworth on 10th August 1935. Sam had seven children, Jean from his first marriage, George (deceased), Ruth, Doreen, Miriam, Lyn and Laurie. The family settled in Station Street, (now renamed Bridge Street) Schofields. Ruth, Doreen and Laurie, still live in the district.

A strong interest in politics began in about 1938 and within two years he had joined the Australian Labor Party which, on 10th October 1983 honoured him with a life membership for his dedication to the A.L.P. and service to the community.

This service included seven and a half years as an Alderman on Blacktown Council. In 1953, with two other Aldermen, he was instrumental in the formation of Blacktown Workers’ Club. Schofields Bush Fire Brigade, the Riverstone Swimming Pool, the Committee for the Electrification and Duplication of the Richmond Line, Progress Association, Parents and Citizens Association, Park Committee,

the Amateur Theatre Group, Historical Society and Senior Citizens all benefited from, and in some cases owe their existence to, Sam’s enthusiasm.

It was fitting that when the Community Centre in Riverstone opened in 1982 it was named The Sam Lane Community Complex. Sam Lane died in December 1986.

Sam Lane had three great loves, his wife and family, the Australian Labor Party and his home town, Riverstone. This love of Riverstone and its history was infectious. A Back to School Day for some senior residents at Riverstone Primary School in 1976, where Sam enthused young and old alike, saw the beginning of the school’s Riverstone History Collection.

How do you want your friends to remember you?

With a prepaid funeral, just the way you are.

Not only will prepaying and preplanning your funeral protect your loved ones financially and emotionally, it also ensures that it’ll be representative of the life you’ve lived; that all the details will be tasteful, just the way you like it - almost as if you were there in fact...

Alex Soncini

HOW TO BENEFIT FROM REDUCED RATES

Home loan interest rates are currently at rock bottom with the official Reserve Bank of Australia Cash rate at 1.5% and it’s likely it won’t stay low forever.

Now is the time to get ahead with your home loan!

Here’s how to take advantage of interest rates while they are low and tips for how to cope if and when they rise.

Overpay on your monthly repayments: just because interest rates decrease, doesn’t mean you need to drop your repayment amount. In fact, why not increase your repayments as if rates were already higher, or alternatively, round up your repayment to the nearest hundred dollars.

Have another look at your budget and see if there are any expenses you could reduce to make extra payments on your loan. Just putting an extra $50 on your home loan repayment every month can

save you close to $14,000 in interest over the life of a standard loan (based on a loan of $300,000, 5% interest rate and 25 year loan term).

Make more frequent repayments: If you are paying your mortgage monthly and you are paid fortnightly, divide your mortgage repayment in two and make repayments every time you get paid. If you are paid monthly, divide the repayment amount by four and make repayments weekly Not only will this strategy save you interest every time you make a payment, by the end of the year you will have made extra repayments, as there are more than 4 weeks or 2 fortnights in a month.

Fix your loan: You can lock in all or part of your loan for the long term so you can enjoy a low rate for years to come. A fixed loan provides security against the uncertainty of rate rises, keeping in mind that if rates go up by 1.0 per cent, your monthly repayment would increase by around $220 for a

$350,000 30-year loan.

Use offset or redraw: these home loan features allow you to build a buffer against interest rate rises by providing a facility for you to place extra saved funds for a ‘rainy’ day. With an offset account, you can earn interest on your savings, which is offset against the interest you’re paying on your loan.

Switch your mortgage: If you’ve been with your current lender for a while, it may be time to consider switching home loans. If there are cheaper loans available that suit your needs, call your current lender or mortgage broker to see if they will match another lender’s rate. Often the only thing you have to do to get a better deal is ask.

Interested in how to benefit from reduced rates?

As your local mortgage broker, Alex Soncini from Wealthwiz can show you how!

Call today on 0419 600 177.

@wealthwiz

#wealthwizau

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

First World Problems with TP I saw the best T-shirt today which had a question printed on it enquiring to all who bothered to read it “are you childish?”

It had two options for responses with the words yes and no with boxes next to them.

The glorious response of the creator made me smile so much that it prompted me to write about it. The ‘no’ box was marked in the affirmative but not with a tick or a cross or a squiggle but rather by a hand drawn picture turning the response box into a house featuring a chimney with the obligatory squiggle smoke and windows.

I think it really appealed to a sense of fun in me and I hope that many others got as much joy from this simple message as I did. The sad thing is that I think people all get a little too busy in this hectic life to enjoy these little simple pleasures. We all need to take a little time to enjoy the fun things in life and to make a point of looking for them. I was lucky today because I came across this T-shirt in the course of my day.

Too often people are wasting their time and energy willfully finding fault with the world. Sometimes we have little impact on the things that we can’t change and yet these are the things some become incensed about the most. Yes, sometimes the traffic can be rotten, service may be a bit slow at a cafe and people may stand in the middle of a public thoroughfare having lengthy conversations and this is what inflames our anger.

What most people don’t realise is that they are in control of their responses to

these things. If you can’t control the situation you are in control of your perception and attitudes towards it. So you can make choices.

You can decide to be cranky about it or look for ways to view it differently and accept that you are not the only person going through this. If you are in traffic on a daily basis you could choose to use this time productively. You could listen to music, call your loved ones, listen to an audiobook or better still a podcast on how to be more realistic in your expectations in life.

The cafe situation really is such a first world problem that I don’t think I need to explain except to say we all eat too much so be grateful of that fact and relax, that food your waistline doesn’t need is coming!

In relation to the folk who have a tendency to conduct lengthy reunions and appear to be completely oblivious to the streams of people flowing awkwardly around them, I have this to say. Now listen carefully.

You are absolutely, positively right - and a message to the people in the way: Move the beep aside!! You are annoying and thoughtless and no amount of listening to positive self-improvement podcasts in the car can convince me otherwise!! Just kidding…. or am I? Anyway back to the T-shirt. Perhaps if I got to enjoy a few more frivolities in life even I too could get past the mid-isle loiterers.

13 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

localnews

14

sport

Western News 9 June 2017 Issue 36

Young Trio sign until 2020 with the Giants THE 2016 draftees Tim Taranto, Will Setterfield and Harry Perryman have all committed their futures to the Giants, extending their contracts until the end of 2020.

The trio joined the Giants via the 2016 NAB AFL Draft in November and have quickly become key members of the Giants’ playing list.

Taranto (pick 2) and Setterfield (pick 5), both 19, played TAC Cup alongside each other at the Sandringham Dragons before moving in together at Breakfast Point late last year.

They were joined at the Giants by Setterfield’s fellow Academy graduate Perryman (pick 14) who became the club’s second draftee from the tiny town of Collingullie in Southern NSW. Taranto has played 10 of the first 11 games of the 2017 Premiership season and was rewarded for his outstanding early form with a NAB Rising Star nomination in round eight.

Perryman made his debut in round nine against Richmond, pulling off a game-saving smother in the dying seconds to help the Giants secure a win.

The 18-year-old has played the last three games in a row.

Setterfield impressed in his two JLT Community Series matches before putting in a best-on-ground display in round one of the NEAFL with 33 touches and three goals. He’s yet to make his AFL debut after injuring his ankle the following week.

Taranto said he’s looking forward to what the future holds at the Giants.

“The club has made it really easy for me to settle in since arriving and I’m really happy to re-commit until the end of 2020,” Taranto said.

“We’re building a really good culture at the club and it’s something I want to be part of for the years to come.”

Perryman said he’s loved his time at the Giants so far.

“I’ve been involved in the club since I was a kid in the Academy,” Perryman said.

“It’s been a huge step up to AFL level this season but I’m loving it and am very happy to continue my career with the giants.”

Despite being sidelined in recent weeks, Setterfield had no hesitation putting pen to paper.

“I’ve really enjoyed my first few months at the Giants and couldn’t be happier to extend my contract,” Setterfield said.

“I got to know a number of the players and staff through my involvement in the Giants Academy in recent years which made my transition easier.

“The club and Sydney feels like home and I’m really happy to have re-committed to the Giants as I believe we’re heading in the right direction.”

Giants General Manager Football Wayne Campbell said he’s delighted to have the three teenagers extend their contracts.

“Tim, Harry and Will have quickly bought into the Giants and all three have been very impressive in their short time at the club,” he said.

“They are obviously very talented young players but more importantly are quality young men that we look forward to having as part of the Giants for many years to come.”

Taranto, Perryman and Setterfield add their names to the impressive list of Giants to commit to the club in recent months including Dylan Shiel, Jon Patton, Zac Williams, Adam Tomlinson, Matt Buntine, Jeremy Finlayson and Matthew Flynn.

CelebrityTIPSTERS

Round NZW WES NQC CAN SYD STG CRO PAR GCT BRI SYD MAN CAN NEW SOU

16&17

BUL GCT PAN BRI MEL NEW MAN BUL STG MEL CRO NZW NQC WES PAN

June 23 6.00pm

June 23 7.50pm

June 24 3.00pm

June 24 5.30pm

June 24 7.30pm

June 25 2.00pm

June 25 4.00pm

June 29 7.50pm

June 30 6.00pm

June 30 7.50pm

July 1 3.00pm

July 1 5.30pm

July 1 7.30pm

July 2 2.00pm

July 2 4.00pm

SCORE

Clr Stephen Bali Mayor - Blacktown City Council

120 Matthew Bennett - Bennett Western Sydney

140 Alex Soncini - WealthWiz Wealth Management

152 Paul Maher - Loxley on Bellbird

156 Troy - Urban City Consulting

148 Barry Locock - Turtle Landscape Supplies

126 Kimberley Talbot - CEO Richmond Club

142

Blacktown City on top of the table

By Conner Lowe

Blacktown City have gone top of the PS4 National Premier League NSW table after a hard-fought win over the Wollongong Wolves. The Wollongong Wolves had only lost one out of six previous games at WIN Stadium but were unable to stop the relentless Blacktown City who won a comfortable 3-1 score line in the end.

In the opening minutes of the match Wollongong had a great chance to grab a goal, with a fantastic save from Blacktown City goalkeeper Tristian Prendergast saving Simonoski shot from outside the box onto the crossbar.

Only minutes later that chance came to haunt the home side as Blacktown City striker Joey Gibbs took the ball past James Markovic and the Wollongong Wolves defender took him out inside the box to give the away side a penalty. Gibbs stood up to take the penalty and sent the Wolves keeper the wrong way before slotting the ball into the right-hand side of the goal to put Blacktown City 1-0 up.

It was then Mitchell Mallia who became the goal scorer with a stunning strike from 35 yards out to leave Wolves goalkeeper Justin Pasfield no

chance as the ball sailed into the top left corner. The Wolves gave Mallia to much time and space to turn and he took his chance and put the visitors up 2-0 in the 19th minute.

The pressure than started to build

on the home side with Blacktown looking threatening every time they came close to the Wolves goal. It was Matthew Lewis who almost put the away side up 3-0 with a great effort from outside the box only to be denied

by the post on the right-hand side of the goal.

The flow of the game was in Blacktown City’s favour, however Wollongong Wolves striker Peter Simonoski grabbed a goal back for the home side after he blocked Conor Evans attempted clearance, cut onto his right foot on the edge of the box and scored an outstanding curling effort to give the home side a chance in the 36th minute.

The beginning of the second half was very congested and tight, with both teams unable to create a clear-cut chance to score. Mallia had a chance that he blasted over the crossbar and Wolves player Patrick Antelmi hit a free kick only for Blacktown City keeper to make a comfortable save.

Blacktown City cemented the win in the 79th minute with new signing Cejka slotting home from inside the box after wonderful build-up play inside the box created the chance that he couldn’t resist. Blacktown then held out the home side for the remainder of the match to win 3-1 at fulltime.

Blacktown city now move top of the table after a great victory away from home. Next week Blacktown City will play at home to face the Sydney FC youth team.

A weekend of tough resilience for Western Magic Western Magic - Round 9 A weekend of tough resilience for Western Magic – round nine A weekend of enduring toughness and physicality with Division One battling against fierce rivals, Parramatta, the Women’s side play the equally-placed Manly and Reserve Grade looked to add to their winning margin, and break free of a potential arm wrestle, against UNSW. DIVISION ONE After the long weekend and missed sessions due to the weather, the boys worked to make sure they were still fresh for the game. The main message conveyed was for the team to stick to their usual methods and processes.

The first quarter was tough and showed that Parramatta has risen to play a physical match. They topped the Magic on stoppage clearances, but the boys still managed to come on top through the scoreboard. After winning possession and continuing to play their structure, the Magic began to pile on the goals.

The second quarter was by far the best quarter of footy the boys had played, from a team perspective, kicking eight goals to Parramatta’s zero.

Emotions rose between the two sides, but the boys handled themselves well and let their football do the talking during the second half.

The Magic never dropped off, continued applying pressure and played their game of footy until the final minute of play, finishing with the divisions highest score and largest winning margin.

GOAL KICKERS: D. HINES 8, E. BARCLAY 4, A. POLKINGHORNE 2, T. DIMECH 2, M. COLLINS 2, I. HEATH 2, A. MOELLER, J MANN, K. WEIR MAGIC: 23.11.149 GOANNAS: 2.6.18 WOMEN’S The Women’s side took on Manly Wolves, who were placed equal second with the Magic.

The first quarter lived up to expectations as Manly came out of the gate hard at the ball, applying good pressure to lead by a goal.

The second quarter gave the Magic

some of the best opposition they’ve been pitted against. Manly had numbers around each of the contests with their players running hard in both sides of the field to add defensive pressure to the Magic, leaving the Magic to trail by 20 at the half.

The intensity lifted during the third term, with the girls focussing their attack on the ball. Despite the tough opposition the Magic kept Manly to only one goal and reducing the margin to 14.

Both teams played great defensive footy and the intensity continued to peak. Despite several opportunities into the girls forward 50, superb Manly defence left the Magic scoreless.

In the end Manly ran out winners in the Magic’s toughest match of the year.

GOAL KICKERS: A. SMITH 2, C. CORR, A. WEIR MAGIC: 4.0.26 MANLY: 6.4.40 RESERVE GRADE Reserve grade played UNSW for the second time and worked on thoroughly preparing themselves after the arm wrestle from their previous encounter.

Craigie dominated the first quarter in a match where his shadow fell over the play all day. His influence up forward yielded five majors.

Mcintyre, Hurwood and Nieass were powerful through the midfield, driving the ball deep into attack and creating several opportunities for the forwards to convert.

White was creative at half forward and as a link for the deep forwards, provided a number of goal assists with pinpoint passing.

Mohammadian generated great drive out of a confident and competent backline that asserted great pressure against the opposition all day.

Another fantastic result for reserve grade, who add another match to their undefeated tally.

GOAL KICKERS: M. CRAIGIE 5, P. BARCLAY, A. CAREY, D. HURWOOD, B. MOORE, D. NIEASS, N. SLAN MAGIC: 13.14.92 UNSW: 7.6.42

15 Western News 23 June 2017 Issue 37

sport

Western News Friday, 23 June 2017

sport

Wanderers share points with Spirit FC

By Conner Lowe

In a very evenly matched contest, the Western Sydney Wanderers have drawn 1-1 with Spirit FC at Valentine Sports Park on Saturday night.

The clubs shared the points in their clash on Saturday night after an early second half strike from Spirit FC’s Andre Carle was cancelled out by Kyle Cimenti.

The result sees the Red & Black in fifth place on the NPL 2 table but only three points off second place Northern Tigers.

The Wanderers started confidently and Charles Abou Serhal began the match with a shot from 20 yards out that was tipped over the crossbar

by Spirit keeper Murray Nelson.

Oliver Puflett worked hard on the right flank and created a great chance for Emmanual Gonzalez but the striker was unable to get his header on target.

Spirit FC showed plenty of attacking intent but

they weren’t able to trouble Wanderers goalkeeper Mackenzie Syron in the first half.

In the 38th minute, Cimenti went close to finding the opener except his shot from the edge of the box went just wide.

Early in the second half Spirit FC broke the deadlock after a quick counter attack with Andre Carle getting the goal.

It didn’t take long then for the Wanderers to level. A through ball from Tariq Maia found Cimenti in a space behind the defence where he finished to even the score at 1-1.

A determined run from Mathieu Cordier set up another opportunity for Cimenti who was unlucky to see his shot cleared off the line.

With only ten minutes now remaining in the match, Andre Carle had a chance to put Spirit back in front, except Syron made a great oneon-one save to keep the scores level.

Wanderers substitute Mohamed Najjar briefly thought that he had nabbed a winner in the 90th minute after rounding the keeper but his goal was ruled offside.

Despite the draw, wins in the U18s and U20s ensure that the Wanderers remain second in the NPL 2 Club Championship.

The Wanderers will now switch their focus to league leaders Marconi Stallions who they take on next Sunday 25 July.