Nominations closing for Blacktown City Senior Citizen Awards
PEOPLE are being encouraged to help recognise the valuable contribution of our seniors by nominating someone they know for the Blacktown City Senior Citizen Awards.
Blacktown City Council is fielding entries for its Senior Citizen of the Year award – given to a community-minded resident who is 55 or older.
The person can be nominated for a contribution they made in 2024 or earlier.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting urged people to give credit to a senior putting back in the community by nominating them.
“Our older people are great examples of what makes our community tick,” Cr Bunting said.
“So many of them organise the social clubs, community groups and sports clubs where people come together and enjoy themselves.
“Often those who put in this work receive little reward.
“The Senior Citizen of the Year award is just one of the ways Council acknowledges their contribution and says thank you.”
To nominate, search for the Senior Citizen of the Year page on Council’s website. Then fill out the nomination form.
Alternatively, pick up a form from Council’s Customer Service Centre at 62 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown.
Forms must be submitted by Wednesday 19 February.
The recipient of the Senior Citizen of the Year award will be announced at the annual Seniors Concert in March.
The 2024 honour was shared by Christine Nield and Peter Overton.
Christine has been heavily involved in community and is a keen contributor to Quakers Hill Neighbourhood Centre, Boomerang Bags at Riverstone and knitted items for Council’s Knit Bomb Project.
Peter made his Quakers Hill home a highlight of community Christmas celebrations for 30 years. He spent many days and nights each year setting up and organising barbecues, visits from Santa and more.
Larger than life earrings among the jewels at Blacktown City Art Prize
AGIGANTIC pair of costume earrings created by an emerging Western Sydney artist has claimed the main award at one of Western Sydney’s biggest exhibitions, the Blacktown City Art Prize.
Monica Rani Rudhar’s ceramics work ‘Imitation Earrings’ is based on how she would use cheap jewellery to explore her Indian heritage.
It’s one of an eclectic mix of 74 finalists across mediums including paintings, photography, sculpture, drawings and more on display at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.
In addition to the main award, Blacktown City Council also announced winners in the categories of First Nations, Local Artist and Early Career Artist.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the exhibition showcased the creativity and diversity of Western Sydney.
“For 29 years the Blacktown City Art Prize has given Western Sydney artists an opportunity to showcase their talents and express themselves,” he said.
“Our First Nations and multicultural communities are well represented in this year’s exhibition and I encourage everyone to visit and take a look.”
Organisers received 472 entries from across Australia.
Visitors to the exhibition can vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice Prize.
The awards already announced were judged by Jasmine Sarin (Boomalli
Samuel,
and Melissa 4 and 5 years I spy in the sky
Most creative use of recycled and natural materials presented by Blacktown City Council’s Environmental Services Unit
Nirvi Kottur
5 years
Aboriginal Artists Co-Operative), Morgan Hogg (artist), and Luke Létourneau (Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre Curator and Collections Lead).
Council organisers also thanked sponsors Ford Land Company and Workers Lifestyle Group.
The Blacktown City Young Artist Prize is running concurrently to the Blacktown City Art Prize.
Children have produced colourful, striking artworks in response to this year’s theme: “Sharing our skies”.
The Blacktown City Art Prize and Blacktown City Young Artist Prize exhibitions are open until 28 March. Entry is free.
Blacktown City Art Prize
Main Prize Winner
Monica Rani Rudhar
‘Imitation Earrings’
First Nations Winner
Lisa Michl
‘Sour Yam’
Local Artist Winner
Erik Shahmoradian
‘A Mother’s Love’
Early Career Artist
Tuifua Huakau
‘Kumete’
Blacktown City Young Artist Prize
Most creative depiction of renewable energy
Shresth Rao Naibi Sriganesha
My Little imagination
13 years
Best expression of Blacktown City
Breonna Konidana
13 years
Sky’s the limit
Most expressive use of colour
Most creative interpretation of the theme: Sharing our Skies
Kisandu Jayasinghe
9 years
Rain, “the gift of Life” from the Mystical Skies
Most creative depiction of renewable energy
Ethan Geevarghese
13 years
Sharing our skies
One of the Blacktown City Young Artist Prize winners, Sharing our skie by 13yo Ethan Geevarghese.
Monica Rani Rudhar and Imitation Earrings.
Kids Early Learning Rooty Hill
Nyssa, Srivi, Evelyn, Shuvana
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From the Editor’s Desk
BY KERRIE DAVIES
AUSTRALIA DAY
ONE of my favourite days on the calendar has always been Australia Day. I enjoy celebrating all things Australian. To me that means both celebrating and reflecting on our history.
I’m proud of our first nations people; their culture and their heritage.
I feel lucky that of all the places that they could have ended up, my own ancestors were shipped all the way to Australia. How fortunate!
I’m happy to roll out the welcome mat to those who’ve come from other countries and want to ‘haveago’ and make this land their home.
Australia Day should be an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come as well as everything we can be in future.
United as one.
Indigenous people, the offspring of European Settlers and those who’ve come here from other countries - all of us, as one, celebrating the great country we all call home. Wouldn’t it be great if we could just do that?
There’s always debate around this time. We have people who want to celebrate being Australian on the traditional day and not change that. We have people who hate the date as they see it as the start of British Invasion, and, as many Indigenous lives were lost, they see it as a day of mourning.
For quite a while now, being proudly Australian is somewhat clouded by debate over changing the date. Is it truly just a date that offends some and stops them from being loud and proud? Personally I don’t care what date it is, as long as it stays in summer.
Would those who shun the January 26 date be OK if it was a day or two either side of that day? Would those digging their heels in about keeping the date really care if were say, January 24 or January 28?
What will it take for us to get on with celebrating being Australian?
Crikey, let’s just get this sorted. Address it, discuss it, debate it then settle it. We are missing a great opportunity to unite and celebrate by allowing it to fester. If it is as simple as a date change, great! Pick a date either side of the 26th, whatever - just get on with it.
None of us has the power to change anything from the past. But collectively we have the power to design our future. What will it take to unite us all so that we can get on with celebrating the fact the we live in the greatest country in the world?
Safety in the sun
DID you know over 95% of skin cancers are caused by exposure to UV radiation? When skin is unprotected and exposed to UV radiation, how the cells look and behave can change. We can’t feel or see UV radiation, and it isn’t related to the temperature or whether it’s sunny or cloudy.
WAYS YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST UV RADIATION
• Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible, like collared shirts with long sleeves. Some clothing may have an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF)!
• Slip, slop, slap! Apply a generous amount of sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside. Adults will need a teaspoon of sunscreen for their head and neck, and each limb. Make sure to reapply every two hours!
• Slap on a broad-brimmed or bucket-style hat that shades your face, nose, neck, and ears.
• Seek shade under trees, built shade structures, or bring your own like a sunshade tent. Although shade reduces UV radiation, it can still reach you via reflective surfaces.
• Wear sunglasses!
AUSSIE SLANG
Sun safe tips for Aus Day
AUSTRALIA DAY is a great opportunity to get out in the good old Aussie sunshine (fingers crossed - we have had some beautiful weather in the past) Protecting yourself and your little ones from the sun is more important than ever—even on cloudy days!
Sun exposure can add up quickly, so make sure you’re following these simple yet effective sun safety tips.
The 7-Teaspoon Rule – For fullbody sun protection, use 35ml (7 teaspoons) of sunscreen on your child’s skin. This ensures every exposed area is covered adequately.
Don’t Miss a Spot – Ears, feet, hands, and neck are often forgotten, but they’re just as vulnerable to sun
damage. Make sure these areas get the protection they need.
Sun Protection All Day – Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside and reapply every two hours to maintain coverage. Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can reach the skin.
Water & Sweat Awareness –Swimming, sweating, or toweldrying removes sunscreen faster. Reapply immediately after these activities to keep skin protected.
Make It a Daily Habit – Whether it’s sunny or overcast, adding sunscreen to your child’s morning routine is a great way to build lifelong sun safety habits.
Stay sun smart this summer and keep your little ones protected!
Good ole-fashioned Aussie lingo
With Australia Day coming up let’s have a bit of a gander at some old Aussie slang sayings that only true blue Aussies would understand!
› As flash as a rat with a gold tooth
› It beats a poke in the eye with a blunt stick
› He’s got a head like a beaten favourite
› Bangs like a dunny door in a hurricane
› She’s got a kangaroo loose in the top paddock
› He was grinning like a shot fox
› He’s as fat as a butcher’s dog
› Feeling as crook as Rookwood
› She’s up at a sparrow’s fart
› That’s about as rare as rocking horse poo
› Off like a bride’s nightie
› She’s done the Harold Holt
› She shot through like a Bondi tram
› He’s lower than a snake’s bum
› She can talk under water with a mouthful of marbles
Old slang.. all but forgotten!
› Ya bloody scallywag!
› He’s cactus
› How ya going Cobber? › Ken oath!
› On the blower › Hum dinger
› Stone the flamin crows › You pong!
› She’s the duck’s guts › Amber fluid
› Where’s me doovalacky? › Grouse!
› He’s come a gutzer › Within a coo-ee
› Big-noting yourself
Bonzer bloke
› Barrack for your team › Strewth
› London to a brick
› I’m so hungry I could I could eat a horse and chase its rider
› My throat feels like the scrapings from the Cockie’s cage
› As much use as an ashtray on a motorbike
› He’s as reliable as a two bob watch
› His language was so bad, he’d make a warfie blush
› Fits like a bum in a bucket
› She’s as thick as two short planks
› He’s so fat you’d need a cut lunch to get around him
Hoo-roo
Q: What is the difference between an Australian wedding and an Australian funeral?
A: One less drunk at the funeral
Q: Why do kangaroos hate rainy days?
A: Because their children play inside.
Q: What did the necktie say to the Akubra Hat?
A: “You go on a head mate, I’ll just hang around.”
I was recently turned down on my application for an Australian green card, on account of my criminal record. Bit bloody ironic is it not?
Building Australia’s future in Sydney’s West
THE Albanese Government is building Australia’s future in Sydney’s West by delivering $580 million to support flood resilience and housing growth in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley and surrounds.
The Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley Flood Resilience and Housing Growth Package will provide crucial road connections to support new housing and boost economic growth through safer and more reliable access to flood-prone areas.
The package includes $345.3 million for Stage 1 of the Townson Road and Burdekin Road project. Stage 1 will upgrade 1.6 kilometres of Townson Road between Richmond Road and Jersey Road, delivering twolanes in either direction, separated by a raised median.
This investment will improve the safety and capacity of evacuation routes from Schofields to Marsden Park, better connecting them with Richmond Road – one of the region’s designated evacuation routes.
It will also help support the anticipated growth in the North West Growth Area which, once fully developed, will be home to around 250,000 people.
The package will also deliver $234.7 million to upgrade Garfield Road West, which will mean the project can move into detailed design and early works to support the future upgrade of 3.2 kilometres of Garfield Road West between Richmond Road in Marsden Park and Denmark Road in Riverstone, including more lanes to support growth.
The Garfield Road West upgrade will increase road capacity to accommodate growing traffic
demand, improve safety and provide more efficient public transport services with bus priority signals and more dedicated traffic lanes.
The Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley has the highest flood exposure in New South Wales due to its unique landscape and large population.
It has a long history of deep and dangerous flooding, including several major floods in the past five years.
This announcement is about safeguarding the future of the region by bolstering evacuation routes through safer and more resilient transport infrastructure.
It will ensure the livelihood of the area, supporting better access to housing as the population grows.
The projects build on the
Government’s joint $33 million commitment to the HawkesburyNepean Valley Flood Evacuation Road Resilience Program, which is planning around 100 transport infrastructure improvements to help people evacuate safely from the region.
It also adds to our $440 million joint commitment to expand Garfield Road East from two-lanes to fourlanes between Piccadilly Street in Riverstone and Windsor Road in Box Hill.
The Australian Government is investing over $18 billion towards transport infrastructure projects in Western Sydney.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the announcement of $580
million for the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley is vital to creating security for this growing region so it can thrive.
“Australians are incredibly resilient, and we need the infrastructure here in Western Sydney to be resilient to the impacts of the future,” The PM said.
“Our investment will build crucial road connections to support new housing and boost economic growth.
“We back Western Sydney and we are building a better future for people here.”
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King said the road upgrades are essential for ensuring the ongoing security and growth of the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley.
“We’re investing $18 billion in the infrastructure we need to build the future of Sydney’s West – from the new airport to the new metro, to the resilience of the HawkesburyNepean,” Minister King said.
“This region is beautiful, and we want to ensure it can be enjoyed by locals and visitors for decades to come.”
Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland said the upgrades across key east-west corridors will mean residents in North Western Sydney spend less time on the road, and more time with their families.
“This package builds on our broader Western Sydney infrastructure plan – delivering vital investment across Bandon Road, Richmond Road and Garfield Road East,” Minister Rowland said.
“Across the board, our plan has been designed to reduce heavy vehicle traffic, expand lane capacity and relieve congestion.”
Western Sydney patients receive visit from Health Minister to mark milestone for infant screening program
MINISTER for Health Ryan Park recently visited Westmead Hospital to celebrate a remarkable milestone in NSW healthcare – screening over two million newborns for hearing loss since the launch of the Statewide Infant Screening Hearing (SWISH) Program in December 2002.
Hearing loss, which affects one in ten people over their lifetime, is the most common sensory disability.
Each year, the SWISH program screens over 90,000 newborns in NSW, identifying around 180 babies with significant hearing loss.
Early detection and referral to specialist care ensure these children have the best chance for strong language, communication, and developmental outcomes.
The serpent’s wisdom: what lies ahead for Year of the Snake
WHAT do JFK, Audrey Hepburn, Muhammad Ali and Taylor Swift all have in common? They were all born in the Year of the Snake.
As we get set to celebrate Lunar New Year commencing on 29 January, Professor Jing Han, Director of Western Sydney University’s Institute for Australian and Chinese Arts and Culture, explains to us what the Year of the Snake means –as well as what the year ahead may hold for those born under this auspicious animal in the Chinese zodiac.
Professor Han said those born in the Year of the Snake are said to be mysterious, determined, charismatic and wise – and maybe a little sceptical, or even obstinate.
Along with JFK and Tay Tay, other famous Snakes in history include Bob Dylan, Oprah Winfrey, Stephen Hawking, Tony Blair and Volodymyr Zelensky.
“If you were born in 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, or will be born between 29 January 2025 and 16 February 2026, you are and will be the Snake,” said Professor Han.
“The Snake is the sixth of the 12-year cycle of animals in the Chinese zodiac. As the legend has it, the Jade Emperor called the race to create the zodiac and all animals were invited to participate for a chance to be featured in the zodiac system. The first 12 animals to cross the river and the finish line would earn a place in the lunar calendar and in the order they completed the race.
“The Rat – by taking a ride on the back of the Ox – completed the race first, because the Rat jumped ahead of the Ox at the finish line.
“The Pig, who needed to eat and take a few naps along the way, came the last. Hence the order of the 12-animal cycle is: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.”
Professor Han said the Chinese zodiac and its variations are celebrated in many East Asian and Southeast Asian countries, such as Japan, South Korea, North Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal, Bhutan, Cambodia, and Thailand.
In some parts of Thailand, the Pig is replaced with an elephant. In Vietnam, by replacing the Rabbit,
the Cat finally also secures a place in the zodiac.
“In the zodiac system, the emphasis is on one’s birth year rather than month. In Chinese, the zodiac system is called Sheng Xiao and also Shu Xiang, meaning ‘birth year’ and ‘likeness’. It is believed that one’s personality is related to the attributes of their zodiac animal,” said Professor Han.
“The Snake is associated with wisdom, charm, elegance, and transformation. People born in the Year of the Snake are mysterious, charismatic, intuitive, calm, strategic, positive, wise, determined, intelligent, goal-oriented, responsible and graceful.
“They are deep thinkers, good at problem solving and excellent communicators, although they can also be indifferent, sceptical, possessive, and obstinate.”
Professor Han said in Chinese culture and philosophy, the eternal Five Elements govern the phenomena occurring in the natural world. These are Fire, Wood, Metal, Water and Earth and they also affect the characteristic traits of the zodiac animals.
“This year, it is Wood, so Wood Snake are said to be precise, cool-headed, creative, and have logical thinking,” she said.
“The Snake is also called ‘Little Dragon’, hence the Year of the ‘Little Dragon’ refers to the Year of the Snake. That is because the Snake shares the appearance and mysterious qualities of the Dragon and it is believed that the mythical figure of the Dragon has originally been modelled on the Snake.”
Professor Han said in China, Lunar New Year is also called the Spring Festival which starts on the eve of the lunar new year and ends on the 15th
CROSSWORD
day of the first month, being known as the Lantern Festival. In 2025, the Lantern Festival will be on 12 February.
“The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many Asian countries and increasingly around the world, including Australia,” said Professor Han.
“The first recorded Chinese New Year celebration in Sydney was in 1899. In 2019, the name of the celebration was changed to Lunar New Year to better reflect the increasingly multicultural society of Australia and to include all communities who celebrate the Lunar New Year.
“Since 2020 the annual celebration has been known as the Sydney Lunar Festival and become one of the largest celebrations of the Lunar New Year outside Asia and one of Sydney’s major annual arts festivals.”
OTHER
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE
• Apparently – choose to believe or not to believe! – the Snake is most compatible with Rooster, Ox and Monkey. Snakes are meant to be least compatible with Pig and Tiger.
• Professions that those born in the Year of the Snake are best suited to include artist, politician, teacher, painter, psychologist, public relations officer, TV presenters, scientist, magician, dietician, sociologist, and social media influencer.
• Some famous Snakes:
- John F Kennedy
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
- Audrey Hepburn
- Muhammad Ali
- Bob Dylan
- Oprah Winfrey
- Taylor Swift
- Mia Wasikowska
- JK Rowling
- Babara Walters
- Stephen Hawking
- Dick Cheney
- Tony Blair
- Prince George
- Emmanuel Macron
- Volodymyr Zelensky, who also caught the tail of the Snake – born on 25 January 1978, whilst the Year of the Snake ended on 27 January in 1978.
ACROSS
1. Paradise (6)
4. Helped (8)
10. Separate by race or religion (9)
11. Prepare (5)
12. Anagram of “Sneer” (5)
13. Oversee (9)
14. Pastille (7)
16. Auspices (4)
19. Russian emperor (4)
21. Not highland (7)
24. Soot (9)
25. Often was a white picket one (5)
26. Practice (5)
27. Pliable (9)
28. Genetic endowment (8)
29. Speaks (6)
DOWN
1. Unbecoming (8)
2. Arrange (8)
3. Notions (5)
5. Spire (7)
6. Conference (9)
7. Very sad (6)
8. Hackles (6)
9. Dog of movie fame (6)
15. Epistaxis (9)
17. Deserving a curse (8)
18. Inactivity (8)
20. Allow in again (7)
21. Probable (6)
22. Assume a drooping posture (6)
23. Make imperfect (6)
25. Armada (5))
JStruck By Motor Car
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St
AMES Bourke a resident of Orchard Hills died in High Street Penrith on Friday on the 2nd January 1925. Mr Norman Wade was driving his car up High Street and when opposite the Federal Hotel he saw James crossing the road. He blew his horn and swerved his car but continued on when James suddenly staggered in front of him. He was driving slowly and pulled up quickly but his car struck James and his body was pulled along by it. James’s body was taken by Norman to Dr Higgins who pronounced life extinct and his body was then removed to the Hospital morgue. THE INQUEST. The district coroner Mr Arthur Judges held an inquiry at Penrith Court House on the Tuesday morning. Dr Higgins stated that on Friday the 2nd of January at about 8 pm he examined the body of James Bourke in the car in front of his surgery and found that life was extinct. He had known the deceased for about 24 years and about the last six or seven years had treated him for various conditions especially vertigo and sent him down on one occasion to consult a specialist about it. In this condition there is frequently a disturbance of equilibrium and general instability of movements, attacks of dizziness being common, sometimes at intervals of a week or more and sometimes continuously. It is usually due to trouble either in the middle lobe of the cerebellum or also in the Labyrinthine portion of the internal ear. He thought he also suffered from fatty condition of the heart. He had a scalp wound but there was practically no haemorrhage which is very unusual as the scalp is very vascular. For many reasons he considered that death was due to natural causes and not to injury by contact with a motor car. No bones were broken and in addition to what he had already stated that the deceased was deaf. Frank Herbert Judges (storekeeper) stated that on that evening about 7.45 p.m. he was standing on the pavement in front of his store and saw the deceased leave the footpath on the opposite side of the street and at the same time he saw a car approaching from the west. The driver swerved when near the deceased and he saw the deceased hesitate and seemed to be confused and lurched forward in front of the car and he believed the driver of the car had the brakes applied at the time and was traveling not more than eight miles an hour. He saw the car strike the deceased and his body was carried along the length of the car. Both wheels on one side went over the body and the brakes must have been well on as he was afraid the last wheel of the car would rest on the body. The body was then picked up by the driver of the car and taken to the doctor but he did not recognise who was injured. Norman Victor Wade stated that he was a motor driver living in Belmore Street Penrith and on the night
about 7.40 o’clock he was driving in High Street in an easterly direction accompanied by Victor Purcell and another passenger, driving about nine or ten miles an hour and when opposite the Federal Hotel he noticed a man crossing the street. He blew his horn and the deceased stopped. He swerved the car and continued on when suddenly the deceased seemed to stagger in front of the car on the offside. He pulled up about the length of the car and picked the deceased up and took him to Dr Higgins in his car. He then reported the occurrence to the police while the doctor was examining the body and then he took the body to the Penrith morgue. He has been driving a car for ten years and he was a careful driver. When he blew the horn he continued because the deceased just stood there and he thought he would be able to pass him and he would have done so if he had remained still but he fell forward and there would have been no necessity for him to pull up if the deceased had stood still. Victor Purcell stated that he was a motor driver and resided in Station Street Penrith and he remembered the night he was in a car with Norman Wade at about a quarter to eight. They were going in an easterly direction travelling about 9 miles per hour at the time and when opposite the Federal Hotel he noticed a man crossing the street and he said to the driver “Norman look out for the chap coming across the street.” Norman blew his horn and the man seemed to stop to let us go past but he then staggered and fell in front of the car near the offside wheel and Norman pulled up the car and we then picked the man up and took him to Dr Higgins and reported the matter to Constable Whitten and then he assisted the Constable to convey the body to the morgue. He could feel that the wheel had gone over something. Constable Whitten stated that at about a quarter to eight Norman Wade and Victor Purcell called at the Penrith Police Station and Wade told him that he had knocked over a man in High Street and believed he was dead. Dr Higgins said that the body was sent to the Hospital morgue. He then removed all clothing and examined the body. There was a wound at the back of the head that was bleeding. Later he examined the spot where the deceased had been knocked down and it was close to the footpath near Judges’ Pharmacy. The coroner stated that he must be guided to a certain extent by the doctor’s evidence where he stated that death was possibly due to natural causes and believed the whole thing had been purely an accident due to the shock of being hit by the motor car. James was born in Greendale in 1860. He
Camden
Source: Nepean Times Saturday 10 January 1925, Ancestry.
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
married Annie Wedesweller at
in 1882 and was a retired Engine Driver. Photo of the Grave courtesy of the Find a Grave Website.
Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
Photo of the grave courtesy of the Find a Grave Website.
ALEX SONCINI
TDid You Overspend over the Christmas Period?
HE Christmas Holiday season is over, and many Australians are back at work reviewing their Christmas shopping lists and holiday spending waiting for their credit card and BNPL statements to arrive.
Many Australians celebrating and enjoying this period may have overspent. Many consumers may have used credit facilities including “buy now, pay later’ (BNPL) products to cover their expenses in the lead-up to Christmas.
The many gifts around might make them feel glad. They might bring a smile to the face as well. However, smiles and emotions are of little value when you need to pay bills. This is especially so, when you’re on a tight budget – as many Australians unsurprisingly are.
However, these credit services could easily affect a users’ credit scores, particularly if they perform credit checks or if there are missed payments.
Although the Buy Now, Pay Later form of payment is widely promoted as ‘interest-free’ there may be costs associated with account management, late fees and other charges which can add up quickly.
Therefore, as Christmas makes way for the New Year, now is the time to prioritise paying off your cards and BNPL debt.
Tips for Regaining Your Financial Fitness and Peace of Mind
The New Year often becomes a period of stress and anxiety as people try to cope with their bills in January. For many people, the problem does not remain confined to having a large amount of credit card or BNPL debt. Some people don’t even have sufficient reserves of cash for paying their monthly household bills. This can lead to stress and unhappiness.
Therefore, here’s a list of tips to help you deal with your excessive Christmas Holiday shopping bills. That too, whilst you get your finances back on track.
Manage Credit Card Debt and BNPL accounts
Focus on paying credit cards that have the highest Annual Interest Rate and or high BNPL debt first. You might find that you can’t realistically repay your balances within three months. In this scenario, consider getting a credit card that levies no interest on balance transfers for 12 – 24 months.
Pay the nominal transaction fee (approximately three percent of the amount transferred). You will be able to save more money on this card. Remember that your existing card will charge you interest once you cross the interest-free period. Similarly for BNPL debt, pay within the specified timeframe or late fees will apply.
Consider getting financial help and advice if your credit card debt amounts are $10,000 or more. The counsellors will work with your credit card company to formulate a repayment plan that fits your budget.
Sell any Unused Stuff You Might Have
Many people often have things that they don’t use. When you need additional cash, consider selling these items. You could sell them online via sites like Gumtree or eBay.
Make some money, whilst you get rid of some of the clutter that surrounds you. Some stores even accept unopened and unused items that retain their price tags. You could receive a refund or a store credit in return. Similarly, if you have gift cards that you don’t plan to use, sell them online.
Consider a Part-Time Job
Depending on your schedule, consider getting a part-time job. Investing a few hours each day of the
week could give you sufficient earnings to pay off your debt at a faster pace.
Control Current Levels of Spending
Cut your current levels of spending. Avoid eating out and eat at home. Similarly, make your own coffee instead of spending money at the local café.
Don’t Use Plastic or BNPL
Until you repay all your bills, avoid making any further purchases on your credit card or BNPL. Only use your debit card (or cash) for making purchases. Doing this would ensure that you avoid adding to your existing levels of debt. This will enable you to clear your debts faster too.
Make a Budget
Prepare a budget that tracks your income and expenses for each month. In the expenses, list your priority bills first i.e. mortgages, phone bills, electricity, gas etc. Then, place some money into an emergency or savings account. Thereafter, utilise the remainder for repaying your debts. Avoid overcommitting yourself when it comes to repaying your debts. Instead, pay off your debts at a rate that you can adhere to consistently.
Utilise all (or a combination of) the methods listed above. This could help you pay off your bills and debts faster than you thought you would. However, you would do well to heed the lessons of overspending and avoid a recurrence in the subsequent holiday season. Just because you’ve been fortunate enough once, does not mean that you will be able to tackle your debts similarly the next time.
Speak to a Wealthwiz Wealth Manager who can help you understand your financial needs and options. Contact Alex Soncini on 0419 600 177 or alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.
Blake Hodges wins JNJG Sydney Week of Golf
ERSKINE PARK
junior Blake Hodges (NSW GC) has scored a resounding 7-shot victory in the JNJG Harvey Norman Sydney Week of Golf, which was held at several courses in Sydney over 13-17th January.
Blake, who is also a member of Dunheved and Twin Creeks Golf Clubs, shot three rounds under par at Brighton Lakes, Strathfield and Lakeside Camden respectively to
hold an imposing lead over the remainder of the Boys field, then had to endure a 24-hour wait as Sydney’s wild weather washed out Day 4 at Cumberland.
Blake subsequently shot a 3-over par 72 on Day 5 at Muirfield but there would be few contenders pushing from the chasing pack in the heavy conditions, allowing him to cruise home to a comfortable victory with a total of 273. Blake also won the 16+ Boys age group.
The next best western Sydney player in the Boys field was Jesse
Hardaker (Wentworth Falls CC), who finished in a tie for 46th place at 303. Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge) was in the Top Five in the Girls division for the first three days, leading the field after Day 2 and Day 3. She fell away on Day 5, shooting a 7-over-par 79 to drop back to 4th place on 297, although she did take out the Nett prize in the 16+ Age group.
Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) was next best outright in the Girls division, finishing 15th on 320, ahead of MarieClaire Domingo (Stonecutters Ridge) in 16th on 322.
GC hosts the South Creek Cup
BY NOEL ROWSELL
DUNHEVED GC will host the annual South Creek Cup on Saturday 25th January, with a strong field of visitors aiming to capture one of the season’s most coveted Vardon events.
Player numbers entered should exceed 200 on the day, with the trophies on offer including: The South Creek Cup (Scratch winner); Captains Cup (Nett winner); Colts (Scratch winner; John Fearnley Junior Cup (Scratch winner).
There are currently 30 visitors entered for the tournament, with 20 of those on single figure handicaps.
Carruthers and Fox finish top 20 at 2025 Australian Amateur
COBY Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC) and Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) have both finished in the Top Twenty in the highly prestigious 2025 Australian Amateur, which was held over the 14-17th January at Commonwealth and Cranbourne Golf Clubs.
Coby shot rounds of 74/68/72/72 - 286 to finish tied for 10th, behind runaway winner Jye Halls (NSW GC).
Coby was never out of the Top 15 throughout the 4-day tournament, sealing his Top Ten finish with a subpar final round.
16-year-old Ti shot rounds of
75/72/75/68 - 290 to finish the tournament tied 16th, on even par, after sitting well back in the field in a tie for 68th following Day 2.
Ti began a rapid move up the leaderboard on Day 3, gaining 24 positions on the day, then shot the 2nd-best score of the day in the final round (5-under-par 65) to move up a further 28 positions and claim a coveted spot in the Top 20.
Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC) shot 73/71/67/71 - 292 to finish in a tie for 32nd.
The other three males (Chayse Thorpe, Darcy Mackay, Matthew Fullerton) and two females (Savannah Webb, Camilla Kim) from western Sydney all missed the 36-hole cut after Day 2.
Action from the 2024 South Creek Cup.
Photo by Noel Rowsell.
Annoushka Maikap and (right) Marie-Claire Domingo. Photos courtesy of Ethan Keane / JNJG.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Ti Fox in action. File photo courtesy of Peter Shaw / NextGEN Amateur Tour.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Blacktown City ready for Season 25!
BY BOB TURNER
LANDEN Stadium has had a new lick of paint, the $1M change room renovation is complete, and Blacktown City has shown in pre-season games they are ready for action on the field.
The ‘Paint the Town’ Red & Black was a huge success thanks to Innova Painting. Pablo and his team worked an entire week to give Landen Stadium a new, fresh look in preparation for the 2025 season. The Red & Black theme is a constant throughout the stadium with even the floors given a new look.
Internally, JMP Building services have done a tremendous job in completely renovating the change rooms, toilets, and showers. Our Senior Women have their own locker room thanks again to the Office of Sport. Add to the mix a new commentating booth courtesy of Proview Scaffolding, on the southwest side of the stadium and additional lights, Landen Stadium is ready to host NWS Spirit on Saturday, February 15 in the opening home game of the 2025 NSW Men’s Competition. Game time is 7pm. Gold medal memberships are building with reserved seating for all home games at Landen Stadium.
The week before the first home game fixture, Blacktown City will venture to Marconi Stadium for the opening game of the 2025 season. Marconi are the defending Champs and knocked Blacktown out of contention last year in the Semi-Finals.
Head Coach, Mark Crittenden, is cautiously optimistic as he has blended some new talent with the consistency of established players. Blacktown had a solid 6-3 victory over St George last week in a pre-season fixture. “I was extremely happy with the intensity we displayed against St George and were leading 6-1 in the final minutes before I let a few of our younger players gain some valuable game time. We gave up two quick goals in the transition so the scoreline was not indicative of the match,” said Coach Crittenden.
“We have four more pre-season fixtures scheduled before we take on the defending Champs, Marconi, as we look to keep building momentum and a positive frame of mind for the season,” coach Crittenden added.
Friday, January 31st, is the season launch at the Hudson Hotel. Both the Senior Men and Women will be presented their jerseys for the 2025 season in front of sponsors, Media and the Under 20 teams as well.
Go Blacktown City!
2025 SEASON COMMENCES FOR MEN IN FEBRUARY
&
WOMEN IN MARCH
2025 Pennant season set to tee off
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THERE will be almost a full house of Western Sydney clubs competing in this year’s Golf NSW Metropolitan Men’s Major Pennant, which begins on 2nd February and will be played on a home and away basis.
Division 1 - Penrith GC in Section 1; Lynwood GCC in Section 2, Stonecutters Ridge GC in Section 3. Division 2 - Glenmore Heritage Valley GC in Section 1; Fox Hills GC in Section 2; Richmond GC and Twin Creeks GCC in Section 3; Division 3 - Springwood CC in Section 1; Dunheved GC in Section 3; Division 4 - Leonay GC in Section 1; Division 5 - Wallacia CC in Section 2.
Several Western Sydney players should also feature in squads with Concord GC, New South Wales GC and The Australian GC.
Stonecutters Ridge GC is the only Western Sydney club in this year’s Golf NSW Metropolitan Women’s Major Pennant, which also begins on 2nd February. Stonecutters will play in Division 1, Section 1 against NSW GC, St Michael’s GC and Concord GC, on a home and away basis.
The Golf NSW Women’s Grade Pennant commences on 14/2/25. Penrith GC will play in Division 4, along with Woolooware GC, Castle Hill CC, Mona Vale GC, Moore Park GC and Cumberland CC, with each club alternately hosting a round as a Central Venue during the season.
Jamie Wright and Zac Kirk. File photos from the 2024 Major Pennant season.