THE weather may be chilly but the welcome will be toasty and warm when Western Sydney University opens its doors to thousands of prospective students, their families and friends on Sunday, 2 July, as part of a winter-themed Open Day at the Parramatta campuses.
Prospective students will be able to take part in loads of fun, wintery activities this year, including taking a spin on an iceskating rink. The University has brought Open Day forward to July this year, to ensure current high school leavers can immerse themselves in a fun day out and explore their future study and career options ahead of upcoming HSC trial exams.
Visitors to Open Day will enjoy food trucks, live music and entertainment, prizes and giveaways, and have the opportunity to receive helpful course advice, and participate in interactive tours and demonstrations of the University’s state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities.
These include high-tech nursing and midwifery labs designed to simulate a contemporary hospital ward setting, Pepper the world’s first humanoid robot, and being shown around a working ambulance by paramedicine students.
Importantly, prospective students will have plenty of hands-on opportunities across the day to learn more about what Western Sydney University has to offer and see why it was named number one in the world for its social, ecological and economic impact for the second year running in the prestigious Times Higher Education Impact rankings – a first for an Australian university.
Ainsley Mann, a third-year paramedicine student and Student Services Hub team member, is one of the friendly faces who will be at Open Day. The aspiring paramedic from the Blue Mountains herself attended Western Sydney University’s Open Day as
a senior in high school, and found it an invaluable experience.
She said course advice from lecturers and the panel discussions featuring current students are a great way to get helpful tips about the student experience and learn more about the huge range of student clubs and societies on offer at the University.
Those considering upskilling or switching careers can also find out more about the wide range of flexible, industry-relevant microcredentials and short courses that best suit their professional needs, while current high school leavers can learn about early offer pathways such as the highly successful HSC True Reward program, according to Ainsley.
“I walked into Open Day uncertain of the degree I wanted to study – considering either law, criminology and medicine. When I left Open Day, I was confident I wanted to pursue health care,” Ainsley said.
She found studying a Bachelor of Paramedicine at the University provided her with an immense amount of professional and personal experience to prepare for an impactful career as a paramedic.
“I’m a practical, hands-on learner, and studying paramedicine was the perfect combination of theoretical and practical based learning, with
simulations in immersive interactive spaces and technology, and practical placements across the state of NSW and the world. I just recently returned from a 6-week paramedic placement in London with London Ambulance Service, and this was a lifechanging experience.”
In addition to her studies, Ainsley is part of a dedicated team at the University’s Student Services Hub that provides support to prospective and current students. She will be among the many students, staff and academics on hand at Open Day to answer questions.
Her advice whether you’re a current high school student or a non-current school leaver, know what degree or career you’re interested in, or are still exploring your options, is to take the first step.
“It’s an awesome opportunity to explore one of our beautiful campuses, chat first-hand with our academics and students, experience the community vibe of Western, and take the first step in finding the right degree and career path for you.”
Sustainability will be a key feature of Open Day to minimise waste and go easy on the environment, including refillable water stations available for all to enjoy. In addition, several solar-powered smart benches around the campus will double as charging stations.
To get to the event, take public transport and make use of the free shuttle bus service that runs to the Parramatta South campus from the Parramatta City campus (169 Macquarie Street), which is adjacent to Parramatta Station.
Free parking will also be available at Rosehill Racecourse with shuttle buses taking guests to campus. Limited parking is available at the Parramatta South campus.
To register or for more information, visit www.westernsydney.edu.au/openday
WESTERN Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD)’s Blacktown Hospital recently received a generous contribution of 28 infant stethoscopes to A61 Newborn Care Unit from Hugo Boss.
While stethoscopes are commonly used tools among healthcare professionals, these specialised infant stethoscopes offer exceptional acoustic sensitivity, enabling our staff to easily detect the heart and lung sounds of babies, both high and low frequency.
Lynette Kirby, a Paediatric Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, emphasised the significance of equipping neonatal staff with these high-quality stethoscopes. Due to the faster breathing and heart rates of babies compared to adults, the ability to hear any potential lung or heart issues is crucial.
“If we detect a heart murmur in a baby, we may need to conduct further
investigations and refer them to a cardiology specialist at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead,” Lynette explained.
“We are grateful to Hugo Boss for their donation to purchase these stethoscopes which will be used by doctors, nurses and midwives, and are now available at every baby’s
crib in Newborn Care at Blacktown Hospital.”
Hugo Boss selected Blacktown Hospital as the recipient of this donation as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility program.
Adrian Kirby, the store manager at Hugo Boss, witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work displayed
“Our last child was born in this unit, and I wanted to show our support to the hospital and the community it serves,” Adrian said.
Blacktown Hospital’s Newborn Care Unit provides specialised care for sick or prematurely born babies. Some of these infants require an extended stay at the hospital as they grow and develop until they are ready to go home with their families.
Donations for the Newborn Care Unit at Blacktown Hospital can be made through the Better Foundation. Established in 2016, The Better Foundation aims to raise funds and provide support for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
BLACKTOWN City Mayor Tony Bleasdale
OAM is encouraging the community to nominate a high-achiever from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community for the 2023 Blacktown City NAIDOC Awards.
The annual awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of First Nations people to the Blacktown community across 4 categories.
This year, a new award category will recognise an Aboriginal or Torres strait Islander person living with disability.
The awards also recognise the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Citizen of the Year, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Young Achiever of the Year (12-25 years) and the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Sports Person of the Year.
Mayor Bleasdale urged the community to get their nominations in quickly, before entries closed on 19 June.
“Whether it be on stage, in the community or on the sporting field, Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people contribute greatly to our community and we are proud to celebrate their successes through Council’s NAIDOC Awards,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“If you know a First Nations person making an incredible difference in the community or achieving wonderful things in sport, education, the arts and beyond, be sure to nominate them today.”
Nominees must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait islander; live, work or volunteer in Blacktown
City; and have made an outstanding contribution to the community.
Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony on 3 July in the Aboriginal Heritage Garden at Nurragingy Reserve.
To nominate, visit: www.blacktown.nsw.gov. au/Community/Awards-scholarships-andcompetitions/2023-Aboriginal-and-TorresStrait-Islander-NAIDOC-Awards before 11.59pm on 19 June.
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BY KERRIE DAVIESTHE bitterly cold winter nights have well and truly set in now, and the old ice pick is needed on some mornings to get your car out of the driveway.
As you jump in your nice warm bed tonight and lay back on your warm fluffy pillows, switching on your electric blanket if you have one, or pulling the ultra thick doona right up to your eyeballs so that only your eyebrows feel cold, spare a thought for our homeless people.
There are many around our area with various reasons for being without a home, including financial difficulty, battling addictions, mental illness, fleeing abuse and domestic violence. Some are living in cars and some are braving the elements and looking for shelter.
In these cold conditions, they are likely sleeping on cold concrete or grass, some with only a piece of cardboard for warmth.
If you’re in a position to, now is a great time to donate blankets, warm jackets and tinned soups. Or maybe the next time you go shopping and spot gloves and beanies for a few dollars each, you could purchase a pair or two for someone who can’t afford them.
Thick winter jackets, beanies, gloves, socks and tinned hot meals are all things that will come in handy to those who don’t have the comfort we have to come home to.
There are so many local charities across our large region that will pass on the goods for you, and it can really make a difference to someone’s life – particularly at this time of year. If ever there’s a time where a kind gesture is appreciated by those in need, it is during the coldest months of the year.
If you have items to donate but you’re unsure where to take them, email us at nepeannews@aol.com and we will let you know the collection agent nearest to you. Thank you in advance!
BLACKTOWN Hospital’s tiniest patients have received a generous donation of baby bonnets, mittens, and booties.
The Blacktown City Lions Club, including Leonie Day visited Blacktown Hospital to pass on the knitted goods, made by community member Sandra.
Blacktown Hospital A61 Newborn Care Midwifery Unit Manager Terry Freeman expressed her gratitude for the knitted items as they will make a real difference to premature babies’ wellbeing.
“Premmie babies are especially prone to getting cold so it’s important to keep them warm with bonnets, mittens and booties all year round,” Terry said.
“It is important to keep babies nice
and warm. The head is the biggest surface area of their body, so the bonnets are useful post-delivery to prevent them losing heat.
“We love using the bonnets because they allow parents to have skin-to-skin contact with their baby whilst also keeping them covered.
“Babies are monitored when cared for in newborn care while wearing a bonnet. It is advised that parents follow Safe Sleeping recommendations when their baby is in their care to ensure their baby’s head and face remain uncovered.
“Thank you, Sandra and the Blacktown City Lions Club for these knitted items which will be cherished and used in the birthing unit,” Terry said.
NORTH West Sydney will be better protected and prepared for future natural disasters following the announcement of the Blacktown Drainage Amplification for Flood Mitigation Project, funded under Round One of the Albanese Government’s new Disaster Ready Fund.
Through the first round, the region will benefit from $1,013,516 in combined investment into disaster prevention, through the Federal, State and delivery partner co-contributions.
The local project involves drainage amplification to mitigate flooding at Ree Place, Bidwill, where works include providing new pits at Wicklow Street and Cook Place, and pipework from Wicklow Street to improve the capacity of the system.
NSW will also benefit from $3.6m in funding to improve digital connectivity for disaster impacted communities, $12.7m in funding for Hazard Watch for warning communications during emergencies, $3.6m for Land iQ Disaster Ready Enhancements, and $1.2m towards mental health resources for young people to deal with the trauma of a natural disaster through Bushfire Kids Connect.
The Fund was an election commitment by the Albanese Government, and will deliver national long-term mitigation funding to help
protect communities from natural disasters.
State and Territory governments submitted applications for a range of projects to improve mitigation and resilience, in collaboration with local Councils and community groups.
Local member Michelle Rowland said “The North West Sydney region faces the threat of floods and every year natural disasters are becoming more common, and more dangerous”.
“In 2022, we saw some parts of our region experience up to three floods in one year.”
“Through the Albanese Government’s new Disaster Ready Fund, we’re investing up to $1 billion in Commonwealth funding over five years to build critical projects that will reduce disaster risk, help to
reduce recovery costs and strengthen community resilience across Australia, including in the North West Sydney region.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt said “while the Federal Government would continue to support areas impacted by disasters, it was critical we do more to build defences, to better protect communities and their regional economies.
“We know that every dollar spent on disaster resilience and mitigation delivers a return on investment to governments and households nine times over. But as a country we invest far more in recovering from disasters than we do defending against them, and that mentality has got to change,” Minister Watt said.
“This is about more than just bricks and mortar. We are changing the way Australia deals with natural disasters by planning better for the future to ensure that communities all around the country are better prepared, less exposed and in the best possible position to recover when disasters strike.”
The Disaster Ready Fund builds upon the Albanese Government’s commitment to ensure Australia is better prepared for natural disasters.
Over the last year, the Federal Government has paid out more than $2.7 billion in recovery and resilience programs and payments to support individuals and communities impacted by natural disasters.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) will work with each jurisdiction to negotiate funding agreements with funds to be provided as soon as possible from July 2023. Projects must be completed within three years.
There were more than 300 applications submitted across all states and territories. Successful projects were selected following a rigorous merit-based assessment process undertaken by NEMA.
More information on the Disaster Ready Fund, including updates about Round Two of the Disaster Ready Fund, can be found on NEMA’s website.
COMMONWEALTH Games
silver medallist and champion weightlifter Kyle Bruce has been named the Blacktown City Sportsperson of the Year at the City’s 40th annual Sports Awards.
The Sports Awards celebrate the triumphs of the Blacktown City sporting community, both on and off the field. The 2023 awards saw 113 nominations received across 10 categories.
Bruce, a 23-year-old athlete, who is the highest-ranked male weightlifter in Australia and holds multiple national records in his weight class, accepted the honour while competing at an international weightlifting competition in Cuba.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM congratulated Bruce on the award, describing him as an “exceptionally successful and inspirational young man”.
“Bruce is extraordinarily hardworking and determined in all areas of his life. Not only is he a champion weightlifter, he is an education student at ACU Blacktown and runs his own gym in Blacktown,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Bruce is an incredible local sporting success story and he did Blacktown City extremely proud with his silver medal-winning performance
at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
“I am so proud of the vast sporting talent we have in Blacktown City –there are more than 200 sporting clubs across 20 sporting codes.
“For 40 years, the Blacktown City Sports Awards have celebrated this talent, as well as the dedication of our many unsung sporting heroes, from coaches to officials and administrators.
“Congratulations to Bruce and all of this year’s winners and nominees. I wish them all the very best in their future sporting endeavours.”
The Mayor’s Shield was awarded to joint recipients John and Lyn Channells, for their decades-long dedication to Doonside Little Athletics.
This award recognises someone who has excelled at their club, made an outstanding contribution to sport over a long period of time and is deemed to be an invaluable member of their club.
The Channells first joined Doonside Little Athletics in 1984 and contributed to the club’s committee and running of the canteen for many decades.
The pair has marshalled at centre championships, gala days, as well as zone and regional competition for many years, and continue to dedicate their time at weekly club nights.
The Channells received life membership from the club for their contributions, with Lyn a 10-year member of the Blacktown City Sports and Recreation Advisory Committee.
Mayor Bleasdale said: “Blacktown City is the sporting capital of Western Sydney, we have world standard venues and continue to attract major events.
“We are committed to delivering the facilities for our growing City now and into the future, building community participation in local sports
and supporting active and healthy lifestyles.”
Council’s commitment to local sport will reach new heights with the upcoming opening of the Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub (BEST).
Council has invested $100 million and engaged in strategic partnerships to deliver a facility that has the power to change lives and health outcomes through exercise and sports innovation.
Blacktown City Sports Awards winners
Sportsperson of the Year: Kyle Bruce, Weightlifting
Mayor’s Shield: John and Lyn Channells, Little Athletics
Female Junior Sportsperson: Bianca Infante, Volleyball
Male Junior Sportsperson: Isaac Beacroft, Athletics and Cross Country Club of the Year: Riverstone
Razorbacks Junior Rugby League Club
Team of the Year: Patrician Brothers College Blacktown U13
Rugby League
Coach of the Year: David Beacroft, Athletics
Sports Administrator of the Year: Katelyn Pickett, Soccer
Senior Sports Official of the Year: Brad Fahey, Swimming
Senior Sports Official of the Year: Bianca Infante, Volleyball
BLACKTOWN City Council has officially launched the recently completed Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre - (BARC)- at Glendenning.
BARC is the largest council facility of its type in the southern hemisphere and is of a specialty design based on extensive national and international research.
BARC has already received strong praise. Animal Services Australasia CEO Mark Slater describes BARC as “a cracking new facility.”
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM said “This is a one-stop shop for domestic animal welfare in Western Sydney. Blacktown City Council is providing a home for good at BARC.”
All potential pet adopters are taken through a unique concierge-based process. BARC has plenty of dogs and cats available to suit different lifestyles. Council is seeking to change perceptions on the community acceptance of adopting animals that are impounded and need rehoming.
Mayor Bleasdale said “We knew that Council’s former Animal Holding Facility had passed its useby date. In designing BARC, Blacktown City has
changed the way animal facilities are designed and operated. Everything we do seeks to improve the rehoming rates for pets. We know that building BARC is the right thing, and we are using bestpractice methods to ensure BARC works for local families,” said Mayor Bleasdale.
Underpinned by research, the design is benchmarked against world’s best practice in animal welfare. The BARC buildings have improved on the traditional design for animal rehoming facilities, providing a secure and transparent environment for animals, with clear circulation, ‘homely’ viewing rooms for potential adoptions and a function area for educational events.
“BARC is as modern and as a good a facility as you will find this side of California. We are committed to best quality animal care, and to animal rehoming. Our commitment means that Council has fully funded this $36 million project. BARC is built to last,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
Sadly, even the best facility has a limited capacity. All over Sydney, animal care facilities have been inundated with animals people no longer want or animals that have escaped their homes.
Council’s first priority is to reunite escapees with their owners, but many animals are not registered or microchipped, leaving us no way of finding the owners.
If you are thinking of taking on the responsibility and joy of adding a pet to your family, please visit our BARC facility and give one of our many abandoned animals a chance at a forever home.
BARC is open weekdays 8.30 to 4.30 and 9am to 1pm on weekends.
BARC contains 135 dog kennels, 230 cat ‘condos’ and livestock and poultry areas for other animals waiting to be rehomed.
There is even a Council library, so those who adopt a pet can choose to take one of the many new pet related books from the display library in the BARC foyer.
Council has a veterinary clinic onsite which is operated in conjunction with veterinary hospitals and provides education and training for students at Western Sydney University and Richmond TAFE.
BARC has the capacity to engage with other local councils to assist them with their animal welfare needs.
THE Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM has congratulated 3 Blacktown City Councillors who received awards in the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours List for their dedicated service to Council and the community.
Cr Griffiths was recognised for her significant service to local government, women’s soccer and industrial relations. She was one of only 246 Order of Australia recipients across Australia.
Cr Benjamin was acknowledged for his service to the law and to the community, particularly through his pro bono work with the Toongabbie Legal Centre, where he serves as Honorary Director.
Cr Fitzgerald was appointed an OAM for his service to the community of Blacktown City through his work with dozens of community organisations and sporting groups. Cr Fitzgerald is a Chief Inspector with NSW Police at Blacktown and has served with the force for almost 40 years.
Mayor Bleasdale applauded the Councillors on their awards, stating Council had “won a trifecta of honours”.
“I am delighted that Councillors Griffiths, Benjamin and Fitzgerald have received recognition for their hard work serving the great City of Blacktown,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“I am incredibly fortunate to lead these passionate councillors, who are unwavering in their enthusiasm for Council and the communities they represent.
“It is a great privilege to have these individuals serve on Blacktown City Council as they collaborate to help build a better community for everyone.
“These awards are well-deserved recognition for many years’ dedicated service, and my heartiest congratulations goes to each of them.”
Cr Julie Griffiths AM
Cr Griffiths was first elected to Council in 2008 and has twice served as Deputy Mayor. For the past 30 years, she has been an active member of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) NSW Branch and served as President from 2010 to 2012 and City President. She is passionate about increasing the number of women in local government, using her position on the NSW Joint Ministerial Advisory Council to advocate for greater female representation.
Cr Griffiths is an avid supporter of women’s soccer through roles as a player, coach and volunteer. She was the Chef De Mission and coach of the Australian Futsal U/21 Women’s Indoor Soccer Team tour to Spain in 2004 and was an elite-level coach for the Nepean and Blacktown Spartans U/21 Women.
She chairs and serves on a range of committees, including the Blacktown City Women’s Advisory Committee, where she leads key projects and initiatives for women and girls, including the annual Blacktown City Knit Bomb for domestic violence.
Cr Susai Benjamin OAM
Cr Benjamin has served on Blacktown City Council since 2012. He is the Honorary Director of the free community legal service, Toongabbie Legal Centre Inc., where he has provided pro bono services as their Principal Solicitor for many years.
He was a former member of the Australian Multicultural Advisory Committee, constituted by the Australian Government, and served as a people’s ambassador.
He has also served as a board member, and later president, of the Multicultural Arts Alliance of NSW.
Cr Benjamin currently chairs the Blacktown City Seniors Advisory Committee. He is the former chair of Council’s Multicultural Advisory and
Community Service committees.
In 2019, he received a Local Hero Award from Westfield.
Cr Bob Fitzgerald OAM
Cr Bob Fitzgerald is serving his first term on Blacktown City Council after being elected in 2021.
He is a Chief Inspector of NSW Police, attached to the Blacktown Command, and has served with the force for 38 years.
His vast community work spans from refugee advocacy with SydWest Multicultural Services to raising funds for charities through the Blacktown and Penrith Relay for Life, Convoy for Kids Sydney and the Law Enforcement Torch Run (NSW) for Special Olympics.
Cr Fitzgerald’s service extends to community sport, where he is a life member of Blacktown City rugby league, soccer and netball sporting associations.
He was awarded NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year in 2019 and Blacktown City Council’s Australia Day Citizen of the Year in 2016.
FOR Jeanette Davies and Renee Keating, Blacktown Hospital holds a special place for their family.
Mother Jeanette gave birth to Renee in the very hospital they both now proudly work at as midwives, with a shared goal of empowering the women of western Sydney.
“My life took me in some different directions, but I always knew that I wanted to be a midwife like mum,” Renee said.
The two share a smile as they chat about how their passion for women’s health and caring for others has led them to fulfilling careers at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).
Jeanette has been with the District for over 30 years, and says that the supportive environment has created a loving work community.
This is a sentiment Renee echoes – after all, she’s now working with some of the midwives who have watched her grow up.
“I spent a lot of time at Blacktown Hospital when I was little,” Renee said.
“I was always exposed to this environment, so it’s really nice to be able to come back and work here –especially because I know all of the midwives that work in the clinic.”
Renee is especially proud of the service that midwives like herself and her mum are providing the women of western Sydney.
With her own 11-year-old daughter at home –who has already started to express an interest in perhaps following the same career path – Renee says that her own experiences have helped her to better assist women through pregnancy and the transition to motherhood.
“I’m really proud to be able to advocate for women. In my role, I’m following women throughout their whole pregnancy and by being on call for the labor and birth, I’m developing a personal relationship with them.
“This means I can give them an experience that suits them too, because every woman is different. I’m empowering them and supporting them to have the best possible journey with us.”
Jeanette watches on proudly as Renee speaks about her work, and adds quietly: “I’m very proud of my daughter, both as a mother and as a fellow midwife”.
“I wouldn’t be the midwife I am today without mum,” Renee interjects.
“She’s my rock”.
THE Australian Museum has come to Council’s Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope, where it found a space large enough to unveil a 15 metre by 29 metre Tongan Bark Tapa Cloth (Ngatu Me’a’ofa), that was a gift from the people of Tonga to the Sydney Opera House for its opening in 1973.
Councillor Moninder Singh welcomed Her Royal Highness, Princess Angelika Lātūfuipeka Halaevalu Mata’aho Napua Okalani Tuku’aho, Princess of Tonga, local Tongan community members and dignitaries from the Australian Museum and the Sydney Opera House.
This is the first time the cloth has been fully unrolled in 40 years. The Australian Museum used the Leisure Centre Indoor Stadium floor space to allow the Museum’s conservation team to safely roll out, check over and photograph the cloth ahead of a planned digital display in the Museum’s new Pasifika Gallery.
Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope is Council’s flagship leisure facility located in Stanhope Gardens. The Centre opened its doors in 2003 and since then has attracted over 16 million visitors.
Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope, continues to attract major events and offers the community the latest in an exciting range of health, aquatic, leisure and recreation programs and services.
This includes pools, gym, group fitness, creche, 4 court multi- sport stadium, Aqua Learn to Swim, Kidz Blitz school holiday program, tennis courts, squash courts, spa and sauna, and venue hire.
ACROSS
1 Heathen (7)
5 Intimation (7)
9 Typify (9)
10 Daughter of a sibling (5)
11 Accomplish (7)
12 Female parents (7)
13 Divergent (9)
15 Hoods (5)
17 Mild (5)
19 Ruling (9)
22 Normal (7)
25 Restored to an upright position (7)
26 Acclaim (5)
27 Soften and moisturize skin (9)
28 Places of worship (7)
29 Paces (7)
DOWN
1 Where Reykjavik is (7)
2 Atrocious (9)
3 Bishopric (7)
4 Lingering (9)
5 Small intestine (5)
6 Relating to the motion of bodies (7)
7 A valley in France (5)
8 Lubricates (7)
14 State leaders (9)
16 A strip of cloth around the waist of a garment (9)
17 Manservants (7)
18 A peninsula of Central America (7)
20 Ordinary (7)
21 Contraptions (7)
23 Type of bear (5)
24 Suggestive grins (5)
solution 9/6/23
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
THE Morehead family like many other families coming from overseas were determined to keep the name “Arthur” within the family tree. Arthur James Morehead, born in Ireland in 1810 came to Australia with his family on the “Thomas & Henry” as unassisted immigrants in July 1851 from Draperstown, a village in the Sperrin Mountains in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, shortly after settling in the Luddenham area at Greendale. Arthur married Eliza Margaret Duff at Campbelltown in 1854 and they began farming in the area. A daughter Elizabeth married William Graham of Silverdale. William and Robert Morehead however settled in the South Coast near Bermagui. They became interested in trading and their boat the “Jane Morehead” was one of the best-known boats trading on the South Coast. In 1882 Arthur James was the owner of a sawmill in the area that was purchased by William Webb and in 1889 he was known around the district for winning with his prize race horses, draft horses and cattle at the Luddenham shows. In 1889 his horse “Lady Cooper” just lost a horse race to Arthur Graham’s “Jane” for £5 a-side and in 1891 a notice of a challenge from Abe Easterbrook giving Arthur notice to run a fair and square race with his horse “Blinkboy” against Arthur’s horse “Forsaken” with Arthur taking up the challenge for a half mile on Penrith Racecourse for any sum from £10 or more. The Luddenham show in May 1891 showed that several members of the Morehead family won prizes, Arthur won prizes for Best Filly Draft horse (1year & under 2 years) and in the cattle section he won best prize for two heifers. In August 1894 he was at a public sendoff for Mr T J F Cadden who was the local manager of the Commercial Bank in Penrith and was being transferred to the Queanbeyan branch. In March 1896 he was still winning prizes at the show for two of his stallions “Limerick” and coaching mare “Juliet”. Arthur James died in 1898 in Greendale and is buried at the St Marks Anglican church there. His son Arthur was born at Greendale, Luddenham in 1872 and married Martha Christina Earlam at St Thomas’s Church in Mulgoa in December 1893. Her parents were Isacc Earlam and Jessie Henderson. Arthur started farming in the Luddenham district and in 1904 he bought a well-known and highly improved property from the Walker family at Chatsworth Road, Mt Druitt. Few men in the district identified themselves more active and with the religious, pastoral, commercial and civic life of the community, he was always honoured and respected by all he encountered. He served as a Councillor on the Blacktown Shire Council for many years and was President for four terms. He was a member of the Cumberland Pastures Protection Board for about 27 years and at one time was the Chairman. This Board met originally at Penrith and later at Flemington then the headquarters moved to Moss Vale. Arthur considered the extra travelling too much for his health and he retired. He was also Chairman of the Nepean Co-op Dairy Society for several years and President of the well-known Mt Druitt Hall. He
was a most active churchman and a regular worshipper. During his later years he took over the Secretary’s work of the “Log Cabin Church” that was destroyed by fire. He was keenly interested in livestock, cattle and horses in particular, and in his former years he was a noted exhibitor at shows and a great prize winner just like his father before him. It was said that a visit to his home was something never to be forgotten. Arthur was justly proud of his many trophies. His dairy herd was a notable one and he dearly loved both the blood horse and draught horse and a visit to a showground or a racecourse with Arthur always left pleasant memories. People said that men like Arthur came all too rarely, and his life and reputation in the Nepean district was an inspiration to others to go and do likewise. In 1921 Arthur bought 306 acres of land on the Great Western Road and Ropes Creek at Colyton and before his death Arthur sold some of his property and had hopes to spend his remaining years in another old historic home, but it didn’t eventuate. He died in March 1953 in the Nepean District Hospital after a short illness. Condolences and deepest sympathy in their bereavement were to his widow Martha of (Mt Druitt) his sons Messrs: Percy Herbert Arthur Morehead (Mt Druitt), Cyril Morehead-Government Stamps Office (Kingsford), Don Morehead (St Marys), Eric Keith Morehead (in Japan WW2 - 2nd AIF), Mrs Albert Ward (Wentworthville) and Mrs Daniel Brell (Homebush) Two daughters Misses Alice Nina and Thelma Ivy Morehead died before Arthur. Thelma died aged 44 years found drowned in a dam on her father’s property in 1950 and Alice died aged 50 years in September 1951 at Mt Druitt, and both are buried with their parents. Arthur’s funeral service was conducted by Rector the Reverend E H Lambert and Mrs Edith Pearson presided at the organ. It was very largely attended by a representative gathering of friends and relatives who travelled many miles to pay their last tribute to a good man and an old friend. Some of them could not get into the church that was full. Many fine tributes were paid to the Rector who delivered the funeral oration and who knew of the excellent qualities possessed by Arthur. Telegrams, letters and floral tributes came from all around the district. Among the visiting clergy were the Reverend A J Barrett (Mt Druitt) and Reverend Shearman (Wentworthville). Among the many businessmen present were Mr R Inglis (representing the well-known bloodstock salesmen) and many old identities from the Camden, Cobbitty, Luddenham, Mulgoa, Penrith, Richmond, Windsor, Parramatta and Blacktown districts. Arthur’s remains were laid to rest in the family plot in the old historic church ground to sleep among so many of the pioneers of the district. His widow Martha lived until May 1959 at the age of 88 years and is buried with Arthur at St Mary Magdalene cemetery.
Sources: Nepean Times, NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages, Trove, Ancestry, Wikitree website, NSW State archives at Kingswood, Anglican Parish Records for Marriage at St Thomas’s church Mulgoa.
THE decision to rent or buy property is a crucial financial consideration. In assessing the current affordability of renting versus buying property in Sydney, there are various factors influencing the movement of the cash rate and its relevance to the real estate market.
Renting Property in Sydney:
Renting property in Sydney offers flexibility and reduced upfront costs. As of now, the rental market in Sydney has experienced some control due to an increase in supply. Rental prices have stabilised or even slightly decreased in certain areas, making it more affordable for individuals and families seeking to rent.
Renters are not burdened with property maintenance costs or the need for a large initial deposit, allowing for greater mobility and financial flexibility. Moreover, renting offers the advantage of not being tied down to a particular location, making it an appealing option for those with uncertain longterm plans or frequent relocations.
Buying Property in Sydney:
While Sydney’s property market has been historically competitive, recent trends indicate
a relative steadying, creating opportunities for potential buyers.
Interest rates were historically low until May 2022, which was making borrowing costs more affordable. However, the recent increase in the RBA cash rate along with the high demand for properties and limited supply continue to impact affordability. Prices may still be out of reach for many first-time buyers, particularly in desirable suburbs or city centres.
Additionally, purchasing a property incurs various additional costs, including stamp duty, legal fees, and ongoing maintenance expenses. However, owning property provides long-term financial security, potential capital appreciation, and the freedom to personalise and modify the living space of your home.
RBA Cash Rate Movements:
The cash rate is the interest rate set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and is influential in determining the borrowing costs for financial institutions. It affects the interest rates offered to consumers on various financial products, including home loans. The cash rate is subject to constant
adjustments based on economic conditions, inflation, employment levels, and monetary policy objectives.
The RBA adjusts the cash rate to control inflation, stimulate economic growth, or manage financial stability. When the economy is sluggish, the RBA may lower the cash rate to encourage borrowing and spending, thus stimulating economic activity. Conversely, if there is a risk of overheating or inflationary pressures, the RBA may increase the cash rate to cool down the economy which it is currently implementing.
At the moment, renting property in Sydney appears to be more affordable due to stabilised or slightly decreased rental prices. However, the decision between renting and buying depends on personal circumstances, financial goals, and longterm plans. Understanding cash rate movements is crucial as they impact borrowing costs and, consequently, the affordability of buying property.
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THE 2023 NSW Junior Golf Championships and JNJG State Age Championships will be played at Ocean Shores Country Club and Byron Bay Golf Club, from Tuesday, July 04 - Friday, July 07.
The following events will be played over 72 Holes; NSW Junior Championships, JNJG State Age Championships (Scratch Divisions), JNJG State Age Championships (Nett Divisions) and JNJG State Age Championships (Plate Division - for those who miss the cut).
The following events will be played over 36 Holes; NSW Junior Champion of Champions, NSW Country Junior Championships, Inter-District Teams Championships
Over the first two days of the tournament, all players will play 18
Holes at Byron Bay Golf Club and 18 Holes at Ocean Shores Country Club.
At the conclusion of the second round (Wednesday evening), a cut will be made and all players who make the cut will play the final two rounds on Thursday and Friday at Ocean Shores Country Club. These players will compete for the NSW Junior Championships and JNJG State Age Scratch and Nett Division Titles.
All players who miss the cut will play the final two rounds on Thursday and Friday at Byron Bay Golf Club, competing for the JNJG State Age Plate Division Titles.
Local juniors entered in the NSW Junior Championships are: Annoushka Maikap, Darcy Mackay, Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Hudson Hughes (Penrith GC), Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / NSW GC), Camilla Kim, Chayse Thorpe, Matthew Fullerton, Ryan Fletcher (Lynwood CC).
60 YOUNG golfers will tee off at Leonay GC on Sunday 25th June, in the 2023 JNJG U12 Tour event.
The event is part of the new U12 JNJG Tour schedule, which was first introduced this year, and is open to any player 12 years and under with an official 18 hole GA handicap. There are both Boys and Girls divisions at each U12 event.
The local players are Harrison Oram (Richmond GC), Emma Norman (Richmond GC), Hunter McMillan (Twin Creeks GC) and Talan Bale (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC).
Tee times will be available prior to the event at https://jnjg2023jnjgunder12tourleonay.golfgenius.com/pages/9481065298443419103
THE final round of the 2023 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition was played on Sunday 18th June, resulting in a mixed bag of results for local clubs, but success for Leonay and Wallacia, which are both now headed to the playoffs.
Despite losing 6-2 to Northbridge away from home, Leonay will progress to the playoffs at the top of Division 3, Section 4.
Wallacia is also through to the playoffs, following a 5-3 win over Bardwell Valley away from home in Division 4, Section 2.
Penrith won 5-3 over Castle Hill but still finished at the bottom of Division 1, Section 3; Dunheved lost 5-3 to Liverpool to finish at the bottom of Division 2, Section 2. As a result, both clubs will now play in Relegation Playoff matches in a bid to remain in their current divisions.
The full results are as follows, with home clubs listed first. Div 1: Pennant Hills 6-2 over Stonecutters Ridge, Dunheved down 5-3 to Liverpool and Penrith 5-3 over Castle Hill. Div 2: Ryde-Parramatta 5-3 over Twin Creeks, Springwood 5-3 over Macquarie Links and Bayview 6.5-1.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley. Div 3: Richmond down 5-3 to Bankstown, Northbridge 6-2 over Leonay. Div 4: Bardwell Valley down 5-3 to Wallacia.
BY BOB TURNER
BLACKTOWN City FC
defeated the Mt Druitt Town Rangers last Saturday night to once again retain the Blacktown Mayoral Cup for 2023. The 2-0 victory at Popondetta Park was icing on the cake after Blacktown had defeated the Rangers 4-1 earlier in the season. In the eight years since the Cup was set up by previous Blacktown Mayor, Stephen Bali, Blacktown has yet to lose the coveted Cup.
The second leg of the Mayoral Cup was a tight encounter up to the 88th minute of the game. Blacktown had controlled possession throughout the game but were unable to score the all-important goal. Jack O’Brien finally found the back of the net with a tremendous header in the 88th minute to give Blacktown the lead. Four minutes later, in extra time, Mario Shabow put the game on ice with a second goal for the 2-0 victory.
The win elevates Blacktown to 5th on the NSW Premier League ladder with a 9 win-4 draw-7 loss season total to date. Twenty rounds of the competition have now been completed with ten rounds remaining. Apia Leichhardt lead the competition at present with a 12-5-2 record, closely followed by Marconi and Rockdale who both have tallied a 13-2-5 record to date. Marconi and Apia squared off last week in a top of the table encounter with the result being a 1-1 draw.
With ten rounds remaining, Blacktown City’s next home game is a critical one as they host 2nd place Marconi on Sunday, June 25th at Landen Stadium. Marconi took full advantage of a depleted Blacktown side in the early rounds of the competition for a 2-0 win over the defending NSW Champions. Blacktown Coach Mark Crittenden has continued to find ways to compete despite the numerous injuries he has had to contend with. The transfer window is now available and Blacktown have taken full advantage by signing International
player Nacho Palacios from Atletic Sant Just in Barcelona, Spain. The defender will be a welcome addition to the side and due to suit up in the clash with Marconi.
Following the game against rivals Marconi on Sunday, Blacktown will have four remaining home games to build their Championship assault. Blacktown will host Sydney FC on the 9th of July, Sydney United on the 23rd of July, St George on the 6th of August, finishing their home stand with the Wollongong Wolves on Sunday, the 20th of August. All home games are played at 3pm at Landen Stadium, 5 Quinn Ave, Seven Hills. Blacktown women continue to grow in only their second season of competition. Led by Head Coach David ‘Dok’ O’Keefe, the women had a solid 2-0 win last week against Camden and a 1-1 draw with Marconi the week before. Next home game for
the women will be Sunday, July 2nd against rivals Hills United. Game time is 4pm at Landen Stadium.
Blacktown City FC VS Marconi Stallions – Sunday, June 25th, Landen
Stadium, 5 Quinn Ave, Seven Hills. Main Game at 3pm with Under 20’s at 1pm. See you there and Go Blacktown City! Go Blacktown City!
Friday, 23 June 2023
THE Historic Sport and Race Car Association (HSRCA) 2023
Sydney Classic was held at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP) over the King’s Birthday long weekend, with a private practice session on Friday 9th, followed by two days of racing on both the 10th and 11th of June.
The meeting offered races for all of the Association’s usual fifth category vehicles, as well as speed events for vehicles manufactured up to the 1990s, plus invited cars deemed compatible with those groups. In particular, HSRCA were honoured to host Heritage Touring Cars’ inaugural combined grid, featuring 2.0L Super Tourers and Early 5.0-Litre V8s, along with a special Group N endurance race on Sunday.
“We were blessed with a pictureperfect winter weekend, which turned out to be a rather relaxed affair at Sydney’s iconic SMSP,” said Seth Reinhardt, Web, HSRCA.
“A lighter entry list than anticipated did little to dampen the mood or impede the racing, which was excellent throughout the weekend in near-perfect conditions. The atmosphere throughout the pits and paddock was supremely relaxed, social and friendly, which made for a great weekend and good vibes all ‘round. As usual, private practice was hosted by the circuit and ARDC on Friday, giving competitors an opportunity to get settled in and put the final touches on the cars ahead of a big weekend of motorsport.”
Classes racing on the weekend were
Regularity; L,M, O Sports & Racing & Fvee; Q&R Sports & Racing & Invited; Group S; Sports Sedans & Supersprint; Formula Ford; Groups C & A & Invited; Group N & Invited.
“The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) hot laps were another highlight for many,” said Seth. “Organised by Dave Williamson, these hot laps provide people suffering from MS an opportunity for passenger laps in race cars at speed. Thanks to everyone involved in getting this idea up and running, in particular Kumaresh Siva, whose idea it was to get these wonderful people into a race car for
some hot laps. We hope to continue the event, and will look for more opportunities to improve and expand it.
“As always, we’d like to extend a massive thank you to all of the competitors, family and friends who joined us over the weekend with their beautifully-prepared machinery and good company. The quieter weekend made for a very social event, and we were pleased to spend time with everyone following the long break after the 2022 Summer Festival.
“Most importantly, it takes a huge amount of work from many people to make an event like the Sydney Classic possible and we would like to send our thanks to the many volunteers and supporters who put this meeting on. We’d be going nowhere fast without you and are greatly appreciative of all that you do.
“We’ll be back at SMSP for the Summer Festival over November 24 to 26 and look forward to seeing you there. Thank you from Noel, Robyn, Rod, Wayne, and the HSRCA committee for your support of the 2023 HSRCA Sydney Classic.”
