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Friday, 28 April 2017
ISSUE 33
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Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
PIKE, John
Place and Date of Trial: At Berkshire, England with the Gaol Delivery on the 31st March 1797. Charge: Indicted for stealing from Henry Richards the elder some kitchen utensils to the value of 11/-, four waistcoats. Also a variety of other items valued at £1-3-6 from Henry Richards the younger and a further two waistcoats from Frederick Richards valued at 10/-. Age: Sentenced: To transportation for seven years. Arrived: On the Perseus on the 4th August 1802 from Spithead, England. Trade or Calling: John Pike was born on the 1st February 1774 at Reading, Berkshire, England at the time of his conviction he was living at St. Helen’s in the Parish of Wallingford, England. By 1806 he was Free by Servitude and working for John O’Hara at Parramatta. By 1806 John, was Free by Servitude and working for John O’Hara at Parramatta. On the 26th December 1807 at St. Phillip’s Church of England, Sydney he married the convict Jane Ferriday the daughter of Robert Ferriday and Ann Bailey. By 1814 he was off stores and a land holder at Toongabbie the land today would be situated between the railway line and Great Western Highway at Toongabblie. John Pike died as from the result of accident he had while travelling along the Western Road at Prospect eight weeks earlier and had suffered injuries to his arm and hand which were being treated by Dr. Rutter. He died on the 23rd December 1860 and was
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laid to rest in the churchyard at St. Bartholomew’s, on Christmas day by the Reverend Thomas Donkin. Witnesses to the burial were Thomas Williams and T. J. Willis undertakers from Parramatta. Jane Pike nee Ferriday (convict per Sydney Cove 1807) predeceased her estranged husband John on the 17th August 1851 at Prospect and was laid to rest at Prospect Cemetery.
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Labor wins with Liberals critical of cost By Keegan Thomson
KEVIN Gillies, a Quakers Hill resident, has won the Blacktown City Council ward two by-election, securing his seat on the Blacktown Council. The local Labor representative convincingly won more than 54 per cent of vote during the election held earlier this month. After he was declared the winner, Mr Gillies took to facebook to thank his family and his supporters. “With a great support team assisting me, especially my wife Robyn, but more importantly with the votes of a significant majority of the population within Blacktown City Council, Ward 2, I have now been formally confirmed elected as the Councillor to fill the vacancy left by the untimely death of Councillor Leo Kelly on Blacktown City Council,” Councillor Gillies wrote. He said that now it was up to him to perform on his promises. “Now it is up to me to deliver on my undertakings to all the people in the Blacktown Community covered by the services and facilities provided by Blacktown City Council,” he said.
Newly elected Councillor Kevin Gillies. Photo: Facebook
The by-election was initiated after the longterm Councillor and former Mayor, Leo Kelly, passed away. During the election the local Liberal branch shocked the Blacktown Local Government Area (LGA) after they decided not to run a candidate in the ward two by-election. Councillor Jess Diaz, a Liberal stalwart on Blacktown Council, sent out a statement saying the Liberal Party would not field a candidate for the election because he felt the by-election was a waste of taxpayers money at a “Labor controlled” Council. According to Councillor Diaz the Local Government Act says a count back, or recounting of the votes, can be done if a vacancy is made in the Council within an 18 month period of the last ordinary election.
The count-back would mean the candidate who placed 4th in the ward 2 election in September 2016 would be made a Councillor. This would happen instead of holding a formal by-election. Councillor Diaz said the by-election only went on because of decisions made by the Labor strong Council. “It is a gross negligence or a deliberate act on the part of the Labor Party,” Cr Diaz said. He also went on the criticise Blacktown Council for funding funeral costs of Mr Kelly. “The Liberal Party will not be a party to this gross negligence of the Labor Party causing the ratepayers over $200,000.00 in costs for conducting the by-election and $20,000.00 for funeral costs,” he said. “This is an expense that could have been saved and used to improve council services. “The inconvenience to the residents and the “fines” for those who missed the compulsory voting could have been avoided if Labor put the interest of people first,” he said. Even if the Liberal Party ran a candidate in ward two there would have only been a slim chance that they’d win the seat due to the strong Labor heritage in the electorate.
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Australia’s premier precision driving team, Team D-MAX is returning to the 2017 Hawkesbury Show - and you could be riding along with them in the best seat in the house. Driving Isuzu D-MAX utes, the Team will perform a huge range of stunts including hi-speed drifting, daring crossovers, a 12-metre ramp-to-ramp jump and two-wheel driving. All entrants must be aged 18 or over and be willing to sign a participation waiver. To enter email nepeannews@aol.com and tell us why you’d like to win the seats. We’ll pass your entry on to the team and they’ll let us know the winner. Entries close at 5pm on Tuesday May 2. Remember to include your full name and contact details!
Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry
Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au
3 Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
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4 Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
Western News
From the Editor’s Desk by Kerrie Davies
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Prospect
It’s about time Waleed Aly joined Team Australia. I’ll declare straight up that I am not a fan of this bloke. I find him to be the most irritating person on television and at times while he’s been mid-sentence I have clicked my remote button with as much ferocity as I can muster to get him off my screen as quickly as possible. I would think that most Aussies would be cheering that Prime Minister Turnbull has tightened the criteria and citizenship tests for future citizens of this country. The world is full of differing cultures. It is a fact that some practices within certain cultures are not in line with life here in Australia. So it is vital that we are crystal clear on what is and what isn’t acceptable in Australian society. Its important for our country that those choosing to live among us integrate, share our goals as a nation and contribute to our future. It’s also incredibly important for our safety. No matter where you go - be it school, the workplace or even the local RSL club - there will be rules on the type of behaviour that will not be tolerated. Strengthening the citizenship test with new and more meaningful questions that assess an applicant’s understanding of - and commitment to - our shared values and responsibilities, is apparently something Waleed doesn’t think new migrants should be subjected to. He claims it “sends a message that these are problems that only exist in migrant communities.” Give us a break, mate. Thanks, Captain Victim, but I don’t think you need to be so patronising - we are fully aware that our own are capable of committing crimes, we just want to attract law-abiding citizens. So what is it that you’re asking for Waleed? That we brush over the rules in a soft and gentle fashion, in order to look like we wouldn’t dare suggest a migrant would ever be capable of committing a crime here? Or should we take them out altogether, in case those rules might offend? Do we want people who would be offended by our expectations living here? For goodness sake Waleed, stop waving the victim flag and for once in your life proudly wave our flag - and be part of TEAM AUSTRALIA. And while you’re at it, you should grab ABC Presenter Yassmin AbdelMagied and tell her to join too. Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au
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Free jabs for ‘high risk’ groups By Keegan Thomson
DOCTORS are urging pregnant women, the elderly and other highrisk groups to take advantage of a free flu vaccination – now available from GPs – ahead of this winter’s flu season. A new vaccine protecting against the four most likely circulating influenza strains is free for people eligible under the National Immunisation Program. Women who’re pregnant, people over 65 years of age, have severe asthma, diabetes and heart conditions, as well as select Aboriginal groups, are all eligible for the free jab. Dr Stephen Corbett, Director Centre for Population Health, said around 800 people in NSW die each year from the flu, so getting a vaccine is a smart idea. “Given around 800 people die each year in NSW from flu-related illnesses, NSW Health strongly recommends people take advantage of the free annual flu shot available from their GP,” Dr Corbett said. “Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms of flu include fever, muscle aches, headache and cough, that typically last around a week.
“Most people recover but for some people it can lead to a severe and life-threatening illness, particularly seniors, pregnant women and people suffering from chronic diseases and conditions,” he said. This year there is a big push from NSW Health for more pregnant women to take advantage of the free flu jabs.
Dr Vicky Sheppeard, Director Communicable Diseases at NSW Health, said if women don’t receive the flu jab they run the risk of hospitalisation, intensive care admission, pre-term delivery and possibly death if they caught the flu. “The flu vaccination is very safe for expectant mothers and their babies and also provides protection in the infant’s
early months,” Dr Sheppeard said. “Children born to vaccinated mothers have a reduced risk of contracting influenza in the first months of life,” she said. Dr Corbett reinforced the risks for pregnant women who contract the flu. “Pregnant women are also at high risk of severe illness if they catch flu, and flu can affect their baby, both before and after birth. The best way to protect pregnant women and their babies is for pregnant women to get the flu vaccine,” he said. In outlining the potential dangers of catching the flu this winter, Dr Corbett said both Aboriginal people and the elderly are also in the high risk category. “Elderly people are more vulnerable to the effects of flu. Flu vaccination is the single most important measure for reducing the spread of flu in aged residential care facilities and preventing flu outbreaks. In addition to the vaccination of residents, it is also important that people caring for residents are also vaccinated against flu every year. “Aboriginal people, particularly children from 6 months to five years, and 15 years and over are at higher risk of flu,” he said.
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Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
The Opposition comes to town By Keegan Thomson
FEDERAL Labor has recommitted to set aside $400 million to build several rail links across western Sydney including lines to the proposed Badgerys Creek airport, the Daily Telegraph reports. Under the commitment there will be a new train line running from a revamped St Marys Station all the way to the Badgerys Creek airport. Labor has also promised to give 10 per cent of the nearly 100,000 jobs created by the construction of the airport to local western Sydney apprentices. These announcements, two years from an election, come after it was revealed that Labor has outperformed Malcolm Turnbull’s government in 11 straight Newspolls. Last week, for the first time since last year’s election, Opposition Leader, Bill Shorten delivered a speech to western Sydney locals outlining Labor’s plan to increase affordable housing in the region. Joined by a trove of Labor comrades, including Lindsay MP Emma Husar, Shadow Treasurer and
(Left) Bill Shorten MP, Miriam, Rob and Chris Bowen MP. Source: Supplied.
MP for McMahon Chris Bowen and Shadow Minister for Housing Doug Cameron, Mr Shorten spoke to locals about the need for more affordable housing. “There is a housing affordability crisis in this country,” Mr Shorten said. “With spiralling house prices, the Australian dream of owning your own home seems more out of touch and elusive than ever before,” he said. Mr Shorten and Mr Bowen met with local couple Rob and Miriam, who’ve
been unable to enter the housing market due to the turbulent conditions. “This is a couple who tick every box of a great Australian family,” Mr Shorten said. “They’re both working full-time, they both depend upon penalty rates and the pay they earn, they’re educating their kids. “But time and time again, they’ve been unable to enter the housing market,” he said. Some of the reforms Labor is pushing the government on include
changes to negative gearing, restructuring of the capital gains tax concessions and increased charges and fees on foreign property investors. Mr Shorten described Labor’s policies as “dinkum propositions”. According to Labor Party policy modelling, in regards to increased housing numbers, Labor’s policies would create 55,000 extra housing units and houses over the next three years, and it would create 25,000 jobs per year. During his visit out west, Mr Shorten was asked about Labor’s policies on the Badgery Creek airport. He replied by saying that the Government and the Opposition should work together to provide an adequate outcome for all. “Labor has said that we do support Badgery’s Creek with certain conditions,” he said. “I think the Government needs to not rush out thought bubbles, but actually sit down with Labor and work through the issues. “What people in Western Sydney and throughout Australia want, is they want government and opposition to focus on the people, not on their own fights,” he said.
A day in the life of... the Minister for Western Sydney By Keegan Thomson
NO matter what side of politics you sit on everyone is always willing to dish out their opinions of politicians, with the majority of those opinions swaying towards the negative side. Stuart Ayres, the Minister for Sport, Western Sydney, Wesconnex and the State MP for Penrith has portfolios that tend to generate some polarising opinions from within the greater western Sydney community, but he deals with them in a professional manner. Earlier this year he copped it from the community after it was announced the new sports stadium in Parramatta would mean the demolition of the freshly upgraded Parramatta pool. He dealt with the backlash with a quick announcement of a new public pool for the city. Even with the large workload Mr Ayres always makes it clear he is for western Sydney first and foremost. “Western Sydney is at my core,” Mr Ayres said. “My approach in life is don’t sit on the sidelines and complain about things, get onto the field and have a go.” From the get-go Mr Ayres’ reasons why he wanted to run were simple, he wanted to improve the region of western Sydney. “I watched this community not get its fair share of things so I decided to get out and have a go and I ended up winning an election,” he said. “I love what I do. Each morning I’ll get out of bed with a huge amount of enthusiasm.” The MP is very proud of his morning routine. “I’m out of bed around 5:30. I’ll Check out the
newspapers first thing and then I’ll have a chat with my media advisors,” he said. “Then I’ll have some cereal. At the moment my favourite is Milo chocolate cereal. For a couple of years I skipped breakfast but now it is a core of my day.” Being both the minister for three portfolios and the MP of one of the most dynamic seats in NSW
politics, Mr Ayres said his days on the job are never the same. “There isn’t ever an ‘MP for Penrith day’ and a ‘ministerial day’, they’re constantly interacting with one and other,” Mr Ayres said. “I could be in a ministerial meeting and there could be an issue back in Penrith that I need to deal with, or I could be in Penrith and something happens in my portfolio that needs to be sorted. “Sometimes I might start out in Penrith and then move around the state, other days I might start somewhere outside the area and then work my way back here.” Mr Ayres has now been an MP for the last seven years and he shows no sign of slowing down. He said his continued stamina levels are due to his numerous support teams and staff at his multiple offices. “You build a bit of resilience over time. You’ve got to be able to move across issues relatively quickly,” he said. “I’ve been doing the ministry thing for three years now, so I’m feeling pretty comfortable in my positions.” “They’re the support team that sits behind me as the local member and as the minister, and they allow me to do the things that I can do for the local area.” Currently Mr Ayres is juggling a couple of big challenges across his portfolios. “Two major issues we’re dealing with at the moment are working with the Commonwealth to set up a strong framework for what happens around the region and the broader airport site,” he said. “The other big challenge is overcoming past bad decisions, so things that have set us on a negative course. It is hard to correct those.”
Don’t be a fool this April: HOPP to keep active
Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is encouraging older people to keep active this month by doing a few simple strength and balance exercises. April is a great opportunity for older people to sign-up to the district’s popular Healthy Older People Partnership (HOPP) program, ahead of the winter chill. Dozens of HOPP partners came together in Auburn Central Forecourt yesterday to show off their moves, as part of the Health Active Ageing Expo. Nearly 100 people staged a surprise exercise session in the forecourt, joining forces to demonstrate strength and balance exercises, such as heel raises, half squats and knee lifts, to help older
people keep healthy, active and living independently in their own home. WSLHD Centre for Population Health deputy director Christine Newman said there was strong evidence showing improving strength and balance helps older people stay healthier for longer. “We have a partnership with more than 35 organisations in HOPP, who deliver strength and balance programs in the community and provide an opportunity for older people to master a series of exercises, which they can then start doing every day,” she said. “All the exercises are designed by health specialists and are ideal to ensure older people have good strength and balance and stay active.
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“Our older generation will double over the next decade – and we know one of the biggest risks to their health is losing muscle mass. This process begins at mid-life, so it’s important for people to exercise throughout their life; strength and balance is vital to good health.” HOPP partner Auburn Diversity Services community services manager Jennifer Yuan said the program was promoting healthy ageing. “The resources and health programs provided by HOPP can be tailored to suit the needs of different individuals,” she said. “Most importantly the information motivates older people to be more active and stay healthy.” For more information on HOPP, contact HOPP co-ordinator Trish Nove on 9840 3630.
May 14th Mother’s Day Lucky Gate prizes, Raffle, Why not treat mum to a lovely morning tea of scones or damper, have lunch at the Oxboro Inn or The Damper Camp or bring along a picnic lunch. Come along and see skills from the 1800s.
May 21st Village Country Fair This year we will be holding our first Village Country Fair. We are inviting local people to bring in crafts, produce and much more. There will be many stalls to browse through – many from our Twilight Markets. We will have food stalls, enjoy the tastes from the local area as well as International cuisine. Why not enter our judging competition, with your pickles, jams, cake or embroidery – all will be in our judging tent. Entertainment throughout the day. We have been very lucky to also been given the opportunity to hold a Mini Back to Back – watch the demonstration from the wool being sheared from the sheep’s back, to the wool being spun to a child’s jumper being knitted ready for a child to wear. There will also be the Penny Arcade, rides and more. Put this date in your diary now as you do not want to miss this Event. We are open 10-4 and have plenty of parking inside the village. Costs are $5 for Adults, $3 children and $15 a family of 4. We have two cafes or you can bring your own picnic or bbq. Country Fair enquiries at events@theapv.org.au
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Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
Medieval fayre!
Crowds gathered to pay their respects on Anzac Day at Richmond Club
History will come alive this May at the Nurragingy Reserve over two spectacular days. Featuring regal pageantry from the past; Kings and Queens, Lords and Ladies and Knights in full armour. Visitors will experience the excitement of living history at its best. Bring a picnic or purchase your lunch and enjoy a great family day out. Nurragingy Reserve, Blacktown City’s premier recreational area, has been transformed into a world of medieval magic. For two whole days, you can experience life as our European ancestors lived. You may bump into an assortment of roving characters, lurking within the medieval village.Watch out for the 300 year old bearded Elder and a real-life Giant! Jesters, scary hunchbacks, an evil witch and a masked executioner all live here too! You might even see Robin Hood and Friar Tuck! Don’t miss the Birds of Prey Show,
Medieval displays, combat artillery, handmade arts and crafts, free camel and pony rides and working Blacksmith Hut. The International Jousting Competition will once again be the highlight of the 2017 event with competitors from Australia, USA and Germany all seeking to claim the prestigious title. Come along dressed in your favourite medieval attire and participate in the Best Dressed Competition. The full Medieval Fayre Program will be available from 1 May. The event will be held on May 20 and 21 and admission is free.
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Making a fantastic difference to long nights By Conner Lowe
Fantastic Furniture has generously donated 26 recliner chairs to Westmead Hospital’s Women’s and Newborn Health department, making patients’, carers’ and family’s stay a lot more comfortable. Donna Garland, operations director, Women’s and Newborn Health said support from the immediate family in these situations is important. “Quite often, patients can come from different regions of NSW, requiring highly specialised treatment and care, and families requiring longer stays by their loved ones’ side,” she said. “A recent survey of patients who had the opportunity to have their families within the room for longer periods showed improved emotional wellbeing. “The generous support of Fantastic Furniture will allow us to make long nights in hospital a little more relaxing,” she continued. The new armchairs have been placed in the Women’s Health Ward, where patients are being treated for high-risk pregnancies and gynaecological cancers. Westmead Hospital ovarian cancer patient Phyllis Matthews was delighted with the new chair in her room. “The chairs are so comfortable and they’re so easy to relax in, I could easily fall asleep in mine. “I think it’s wonderful Fantastic Furniture has helped make patients’ stay in hospital a lot better,” she said.
Renee Bosworth, Fantastic Furniture area leader, praised the care provided at Westmead Hospital. “We are thrilled to provide ultra-comfortable reclining armchairs to the department to improve the quality of comfort and the day-to- day support family members need,” she said. Susie Saba, Partnerships Manager at Westmead Medical Research Foundation said she was delighted with the donation. “We are so pleased that Fantastic Furniture has
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donated these recliner chairs. I hope it inspires more businesses to think about ways in which they can support our communities,” she said. Fantastic Furniture are delighted with the responses from all patients at Westmead hospital and hope that the armchairs will make a comfy stay for all friends and family visiting patients within Westmead hospital. For information on how to support My Westmead please call 1800 639 037 or visit mywestmead.org.au
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Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
The G Spot
Nothing like a Sunday reading the paper and out falls the travel escape insert. Don’t deny it; the front page picture is like staring at a screensaver on your computer for hours wishing you were there. You faintly hear the Hawaiian musical tones in your ears, the smell of coconut oil and the taste of seafood with an expensive bottle of wine. You close your eyes and block out the kids fighting, cat meowing, dogs barking and hubby saying “where’s me coffee darl?” So in all my expert wisdom, I decided to look for handy tips for the traveler and perhaps summarise and then give them to you, my avid G Spotters. Soooo, I was reading a travelling tip guide, just to get the juices flowing for this column, because I just can’t be simply brilliant constantly. I came
across these 50 handy tips for the traveler. Hold on its coming... So this Brainiac’s tip number 2 was – don’t miss your flight because that will suck! And the crickets start…. ummmm? I am no rocket scientist but this is a no-brainer, right? Tip 15 – Take a memory card because you will need it! Like der that’s what it is a memory card is, ya drop kick, it never forgets. Tip 17 – Contraceptives are not the stupidest idea in the world! This guy quit his job for this, well hopefully he doesn’t breed, that’s one good thing I guess. Tip 25- Take something that will entertain you for hours. Now that’s a great tip, I have a mother of an ingrown toe nail that I can dig at on the plane for at least 16 hours and flick that crap everywhere. With a plastic knife of course - don’t want to
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security
be arrested as a suspected terrorist. Tip 31- Having a change of underwear- Yep another great tip, because when you get hit by that moped in Thailand by some drunk driver you want to know that the pants you just crapped in are changeable. Tip 43- Try and hang out with people just like you whilst on holidays. The last time I looked you want to get away from people or you would be drinking beers on a deck chair on the loading dock of your workplace. Tip 39- If it can’t be worn for three days then don’t bring it! This is the type of dude that you get stuck with in economy class and he is in the middle seat and wearing the same shirt for three days. You have to vomit in the sick bag just to change the smell in the room. Anyway, I have to secretly concur with this tip, my clothes are ready for scientific testing by the time
I’ve finished my holiday. Tip 1- Give a photocopy of your passport & itinerary to family and friends. Now this is a great tip, except when they get arrested in a corrupt country and hand over your ID saying they are you. But, yeah good tip, I will give this to him. So there you have it, travelling tips for that next 5 star holiday, bring undies just in case you crap your pants, forget the kids, if it gets too hard just wear your clothes for three days oh and don’t miss your flight or you can’t do any of the above. Oh and my handy security travelling tips- Don’t take hordes of cash in a bum bag and carry your mobile phone in your hand whilst walking the streets. Place all cash in secure safes at your hotel, lock your doors and put all valuables away. Don’t flash it baby or it will be gone!
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* new connections
NIMBY attitudes and other stupid stuff with TP I’m always intrigued about peculiar habits of people, in particular the attitudes of people who are complete hypocrites but fail to see this trait in their own behaviour. They are happy to bag other people for having opinions and then get all hot under the collar when someone challenges them. I believe that this is what is commonly known as having a glass jaw. Ironically these people tend to have an uncanny capacity to also fit into the NIMBY category. NIMBY for those who are unaware of the term stands for “not in my backyard”. These people may be happy to have development or industry in other areas but do not wish to have it in their back yard- ergo the acronym was born. The biggest problem with this approach to life is that a very noisy minority can stop necessary growth and changes which would benefit the lives of the silent majority. It takes a lot for the quiet majority of the community to get roused into action as they are busy getting on with their lives. They tend not to get involved in petty politics as they are not naturally vindictive and nasty. This is in contrast to the noisy minority who appear to make it their life’s work to undermine and destroy those around them who do not share their view of the world, it’s like sport to them. One can only live in hope that the silent
majority become angry enough to say enough is enough. So much policy is made by governments based on this disproportionate representation of the voice of the “community”. When will governments wake up and see that the wool has been pulled over their eyes by wolves in sheep’s clothing. Anyway it’s a pet peeve. Just saying. Onto other stupid stuff. There are arguments out there by people who don’t want to see trees chopped
down to make way for housing and infrastructure. Now I’m not talking about cutting down the Daintree, no one thinks that is a good idea. I’m not even talking about cutting down huge Morton Bay fig trees, I would want to keep these too. I’m talking about cutting down a few trees to make way for say a bridge or more housing for people to live in. New trees can be planted to offset cutting down the trees which is a completely rational
and pragmatic idea. What people tend to forget is that we need places to live in and we need infrastructure to service this growth. Standing in front of bulldozers and being hostile about this is counter productive and in fact is hurting the residents in the wider community who actually want this growth. The traditional Australian dream is to own your own home and whilst there is a push to create more density in already established areas there is still an appetite for a suburban block where kids can run around. Without a doubt we need both but how do they think this is going to happen if the land is not made available? It is stupid stuff. Most of the people I’m thinking about are living in homes on land which once was farmland carved up to build their home and prior to that and probably more significantly it was land which was looked after by the Indigenous people of this country. The NIMBYs are happy to say I’m living here but no one else can come now, often citing that they don’t want to lose their view or have more traffic on the roads. So instead of supporting more growth with accompanying infrastructure they want to stop it all as they don’t want it in their backyards. The hypocrisy is breathtaking.
Camped by a billabong
By Ben Cranney
I wondered which tree to look in first. The giant red gum, the yellow box growing around the fence, the willow drooping into the billabong? The story goes that Ned Kelly and his gang, while rustling some cattle around here, hid treasure in a tree before dining at the local homestead. Apparently, it was an amicable dinner, but I’d be welcoming too if a notorious bushranger asked for a feed. I was by the Murray River, near Yarrawonga on the NSW-Victorian border. Yarrawonga swells from 8000 to over 25000 people on long
weekends. Campers spill out along the banks of the Murray (it’s illegal to camp on the NSW side without permission from the landowner, even if you’re a Kelly), so time it when it’s empty to get the best spots and a bit of peace, and water ski some of the best straights in Australia, using overhanging branches as a natural slalom. For a slower paced visit, there are plenty of fishing holes. The river was dammed here, creating Lake Mulwala. Dead trees on flooded river flats create perfect breeding grounds and hiding places for giant fish to grow, including Murray Cod. You’ll
need patience and skill, not to mention strength, to land one of these, but there are others to catch too. Yellow Belly or Redfin are both tasty, and you’d be unlucky to not catch a carp (but don’t eat it - tastes like mud). Just don’t throw these last two back, they are both pests. If the river is too much, seek out another treasure in the area, the wineries of Rutherglen. It doesn’t have the star power of the Hunter or the Yarra Valley, but it produces wines just as good and also hosts a leg of the A Day on the Green music tour. And unlike many of the Hunter wineries, the cellar door is often part of the old
buildings, so you get assaulted by that wonderful barrel room smell, from the wine infused, generations old oak. Try St Leonards for a feed overlooking the creek, or Bullers for a drink while wondering the aviaries full of native birds. If fancy surrounds are what you want, then go straight to All Saints and its castle like grounds. Or try them all, and go on the winery walkabout weekend in June. If you pass through Corowa on the way, stop and learn about Corowa’s role in Australia’s federation. And if you happen to find Kelly’s treasure, just remember who gave you the tip.
The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel WHAT LIES BENEATH A couple of evenings ago, I was watching an interview on BBC World News about the forthcoming French elections which was taking place in the main square of a town called Amiens in North West France. I was just thinking what a pretty and peaceful place it was when the interviewer mentioned that one of the areas within that Department was the Somme. David and I used to drive through that area regularly when we worked in France and it always struck me how such a pastoral landscape could cover the horrors of the trenches and fierce fighting that had taken place during the First World War when hundreds of thousands of brave soldiers on both sides had been slaughtered in the struggle to conquer a few hectares of land. It is strange how some places, like the Somme, seem to cradle those who have died there whilst others still hold traces of those who have gone before. You may think I spend all my time watching television, but the other night I happened to see a programme on atrocities committed by the SS during their final push through France in 1944. I know, a jolly evening’s viewing, but it did mention one place that had had a great effect on me. This
was a town called Oradur-sur-Glan in South-Western France which had been razed by the Nazis. During the time of the Allied Landings, the Resistance in that area had become very strong and following the destruction of a railway line, the SS destroyed the town as a reprisal. Orador is now kept as a memorial to those who died there and when I visited it, I must say I had a very sad and moving experience. The Germans
had shot all the men, herded the women and children into the church and set fire to it. As I walked through the eerily empty streets, I became aware that I was not alone. I could feel confusion, fear and cruelty, but things got really bad when I went into the ruins of the church. I could smell the smoke, hear the crackling of the flames and screams of the women and children accompanied by the prayers of the
brave priest who had elected to stay with them until the end. I ran out of the church in a panic. Suddenly I felt a tug at my arm and I looked down to see a small girl in a white nightie. “Please help me,” she said. I knelt down. “What’s wrong, poppet?” I asked. “Please help me find my mummy.” I turned to David who was looking very perplexed. “How can we help her?” “Who? “This little girl.” I turned back to find that she had disappeared. No wonder he was looking surprised imagine seeing your wife on her knees speaking French to thin air. This makes me wonder why in some places unquiet spirits remain and not in others. Could the explanation be that at battle sites, men died fighting for causes they believed in whereas in a place such as Orador innocent people were sent to their untimely deaths. Next Tuesday, when we watch the dawn rise over the beautiful bay of Gallipoli, will anyone be aware of the presence of those who died there over a hundred years ago or will their spirits be peaceful and quiet knowing they gave their lives for our freedom. The Unintentional Medium is available online or at all good book stores
11 Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
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Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
SUDOKU: MEDIUM
INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates
Some lucky locals will get to meet the great Jon Stevens! By Kerrie Davies
Jon Stevens will be supporting Jimmy Barnes at the upcoming concert at Fernhill Estate and this week he was kind enough to do a Q & A with me. He’s a great bloke and now you also have a chance to meet the man at a “meet and greet” at the Fernhill gig - details under the Q & A. Kerrie: You’ve had such a diverse musical career, has there been a favourite period, as in the Noiseworks days, INXS days or as a soloist? Or has each venture been unique and exciting in its own way? Jon: My favourite period is now, today. Yesterday is a memory. But you are right, each period has been a unique adventure and there has been a lot of exciting times. May they continue to continue! Kerrie: What would you say has been your career highlight moment? Jon: Not any one particular moment as I tend to look forward and am always trying to be better at my craft - I still feel extremely passionate about writing and performing and working with like-minded people….it’s still lotsa fun. Kerrie: As a boy, what did you want to be when you grew up? Was it always a dream of being on stage? And have you exceeded your own expectations? Jon: As a boy I only ever wanted to play football – I didn’t dream of being onstage but fell into it at a young age. Music was a very normal, everyday happy fun place
WIN!
growing up in a musical household the youngest of 11 children. One of the things I have learnt in life is don’t expect anything, that way you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy your life while you’re here and try and make a difference in your own small way.
Fernhill Estate is giving away four chances to win a double “meet and greet” with Jon Stevens!! To enter, purchase two or more GA entries to the Jimmy Barnes concert on May 7 by 5pm May 1st. Type JON into the promo code and you’ll go in the draw to win!
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realestate
Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
Are you up to date on the changes to investor property lending? Alex Soncini
A major bank report has raised house price forecasts and suggests interest rates will remain stable until 2019. House prices in Australia will rise by 7.2% in 2017 and 3.4% in 2018, NAB has predicted. The Forward View April 2017, a report by NAB’s economics team also predicts that apartment price rises will rise in 2018, by 6.8%, but fall in 2018 by -0.4%. Come 2018 price growth will slow, the prediction due to tighter credit and regulatory conditions and “compounded by modest wages growth/ deteriorating affordability and new additions to the housing (apartment) stock”. The Bank notes that the construction boom may last longer than expected, with dwelling investment rising 2% in 2017 before falling in 2018 and 2019. With growth yet to cool in Sydney and Melbourne markets, property investors are finding it hard to know if they can borrow and from which lender, following changes to investment lending. With the recent rapid growth of investment loans, the banking regulator has asked banks to pull-back investment lending due to concern that it has been too easy for people to take on debt without looking at the big picture. The following practices are now being cracked down on: • Banks growing their investment loan book at
over 10 per cent per year • Writing loans where the borrower has less than 20 per cent deposit • Encouraging investment loans with ‘discount’ interest rates and writing interest-only investment loans over a long term. During a time that seems too difficult and overwhelming we want to help investors and help you achieve the investment portfolio you wish for. If you’re new to property investing we know it can be overwhelming, but it needn’t be. We look at your needs and help ensure your investment is not only affordable but makes sense for your financial situation and your future. Here are my top tips for an investment purchase: 1) Request a depreciation schedule Getting a depreciation schedule will ensure that you will be able to maximise the cash returns from your investment property by claiming tax breaks. Some investors just assume that the rules only apply to new properties but they are available for all. 2) Get the property valued When you buy a new property, this may be required as way to determine the value and will act as security against your home loan. 3) Utilise a good conveyancer/ solicitor
@wealthwiz
To transfer the legal property title from one person to another you will need a solicitor or good conveyancer to assist with the sale of a property, prepare the documentation and conduct the settlement process. In this day in age, this can even be done online. 4) Get your documentation together You will need to show proof of income and repayment history for a lender to approve your loan before making an offer. A credit check is part of that process and looks at your full financial history. This will reassure the lender that you are capable of making consistent payments. 5) Consider a deposit bond Its general practice when buying an investment property to put forward a 10% cash deposit when entering a purchase contract (prior to settlement). A deposit bond can be a quick and efficient way of arranging the deposit without having to have cash ready. It allows the purchaser to wait until settlement to pay the 10%. To get a better understanding contact Alex Soncini at Wealthwiz for a free home loan review on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au. To start building your property investment portfolio, talk to us today!
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WealthWiz Wealth Management | Suite 3, 47-51 Richmond Rd, Blacktown Call 8004 6655 | www.wealthwiz.com.au
Magic’s moving momentum
Western Magic – Round Three Last weekend saw all sides playing at home for the first time this year. Division one took on Macquarie University, while the Reserves’ and the Women’s sides took on Sydney University. The Under 19’s were forced to forfeit due to a shortage in numbers. First up for the day was the Women’s side, who implemented a completely new midfield combination leading up to the game. The girls started to gel together early in the game and took a 28-point lead into the first break and found their rhythm in the second quarter both in attack and defence, kicking six goals going into the half time break.
The second half mirrored the first, with regular goal scoring and a committed defence, creating strong counter attacking plays up the field. The sustained effort and play by the Magic left Sydney Uni completely scoreless throughout the game. The Magic’s midfield and defence set up many opportunities for the forwards, with Bek Mann, Rebecca Leeds, Jen Tosh, Amanda Lim & Libby Pickering-Rodriguez leading the way. The Magic ended the match with 19 goals and the second game in a row in which they’ve won by a considerable margin and kept their opposition scoreless. Danielle Dimond kicked 6 goals, Simone Freeman booted 4,
Ashlee Weir finished with 2, with Meszaros, O’’Hagan, Luczak, H. Smith, Pickering Rodriguez, Leard and Jansen kicking one each. MAGIC: 19.14.128 SYDNEY UNI: 0.0.0 Reserve Grade also battled against Sydney Uni in a close knit match. Sydney Uni established themselves within minutes by booting two quick goals showing that they were here to play. The Magic steadily wrestled back the initiative and opened a handy lead by the end of the first quarter. Sydney Uni was hurt with wasteful kicking, while the Magic’s accuracy for goal gave them a healthy boost leading up to half time.
The defence battled hard all day, ably led by Hill and Lawson. Their tenacity and ability to set up attacking forays from deep in defence were outstanding. Mcintyer, Godden, Perkins and Nieass were part of a strong midfield that absorbed pressure and continually drove the ball deep into the forward line. There was a superb goal kicking effort amongst the forwards, with Luke Hyland and Manoj Yuvarajan, kicking three a piece. P Barclay and Perkins both kicked two. Craigie, Godden, Madheng, Mcintyer and White slotted one each in a gripping game. MAGIC: 15.4.94 SYDNEY UNI: 9.11.65
my words with MARK GEYER
Footy dominating what seems to be daily headlines This exact same time last year after eight rounds in the NRL premiership race, Penrith were 3 wins 5 losses. At present they are 2 wins 6 losses. Far from panic stations, but still a degree of anxiety in which the way - or by how much - they have been beaten by this current campaign. Last year the opening 8 rounds saw the mountain men succumb by the barest of margins in their opening 5 defeats, 8, 2, 2, 5 and 2 points respectively to be exact. This season has seen a blowout in defeated margins which has all Panther fans reaching for the panadol. 32 points to the Dragons, 2 points to the Roosters with ‘that forward pass” being the difference that night, a 22 point loss to the Storm, another one that got away with the Rabbitohs beating Anthony Griffin’s men by a point at Pepper Stadium, then the Sharks by 26 and Parra by 6 has the Panthers sitting where they do now on the competition table. Seems everyone has an opinion as to why. I’ll give you mine. Pre-season expectations have derailed the opening stanza of 2017, whether anyone says so out loud or not. That, along with Origin prop James Tamou and Dragons hooker Mitch Rein joining the gang, coupled with the abundant supply of current players and juniors had every man and their dog predicting a Panthers victory in this season’s grand final. Seven months out! Hard not to get caught up in that if you’re a current player, the fans and media did, so why can’t the players? I have no doubt Penrith will come good this year, it’s a matter of when not if. But everyone associated with this great game has to realise that to experience
the warm glow of the sun there has to be some cold dark days to appreciate what you’re missing out on. Stay true Panther fans, your team are definitely the real deal, once they truly believe this and it’s not just a written word, look out! And another thing... As a player the most emotional time to play was on Anzac Day. Standing side by side with your teammates listening to the Last Post thinking of With Gus Worland in Gallipoli, how many sacrificed their own lives for what an amazing place the freedom we are now afforded, sends goosebumps up my spine just writing that sentence. My grandfather Keith Culpan served in WWII and this was always in the back of my mind when listening to the amazing rendition on field. To those men and women that fought and are still fighting for our country I say thank you. Your contribution to making our country what it is will never ever go unnoticed. Lest We Forget.
Western News 28 April 2017 Issue 33
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MG (random Westie) OAM
CelebrityTIPSTERS
Round BRI SOU NQC GCT BUL WES NZW STG BUL STG WES PAN MEL MAN NEW SYD
9&10
PAN MAN PAR NEW CAN CRO SYD MEL NQC CRO SOU NZW GCT BRI CAN PAR April 27 7.50pm
April 28 6.00pm
April 28 7.50pm
April 29 3.00pm
April 29 5.30pm
April 29 7.30pm
April 30 2.00pm
April 30 4.00pm
May 11 7.50pm
May 12 6.00pm
May 12 7.50pm
May 13 3.00pm
May 13 5.30pm
May 13 7.50pm
May 14 2.00pm
May 14 4.00pm
SCORE
Clr Stephen Bali Mayor - Blacktown City Council
70 Matthew Bennett - Bennett Western Sydney
70 Alex Soncini - WealthWiz Wealth Management
84 Paul Maher - Loxley on Bellbird
92 Troy - Urban City Consulting
82 Barry Locock - Turtle Landscape Supplies
64 Kimberley Talbot - CEO Richmond Club
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Western News Friday, 28 April 2017
sport
Wanderers season over after defeat to the Roar By Conner Lowe
The Western Sydney Wanderers Hyundai A-League season has come to an end following their loss to Brisbane Roar last Friday night. The Western Sydney Wanderers were in good form coming into their finals match against the Roar, with many impressive displays against teams placed in the top four. The Wanderers went into halftime with a 1-0 advantage thanks to a converted penalty from Terry Antonis. The lead would not last long into the second-half with Brisbane Roar striker Jamie Maclaren slotting the ball into an empty net after his team mate Brandon Borrello had hit the post with a fin strike. With scores level at fulltime and both sides failing to capitalise on chances in extra-time, the game was sent to penalties. The wanderers then crashed out of the finals with winger Jumpei Kusukami missing a crucial penalty in the penalty shootout. Throughout the 2016/17 season Western Sydney Wanderers coach Tony Popovic was adamant that his team had the quality needed to win the competition.
However, with a poor start to the Hyundai A-League season the Wanderers made the task difficult to finish in the top six and battle it out against a Brisbane side who has played well all season. Now the fans of Western Sydney will wait patiently for the new season to arrive. Tony Popovic in the off-season will normally chop and change a lot of the team and start fresh in the new season with a whole new squad. Fans will hope that Popovic
keeps Nicolas Martinez and Terry Antonis who are both currently on-loan to the Western Sydney club, but were a pivotal part in the Wanderers making the finals. The Western Sydney Wanderers still have games remaining in the Asian Champions League although they can’t progress. It has been a disappointing Asian champions league campaign from the Wanderers with only one win in four matches and with the last two games against the two top teams the Wanderers look set to drop more point in their group stage. The Wanderers will have wanted to achieve more success in both the Hyundai A-League and the Asian Champions League this season, but with a poor start in both competitions the Wanderers will now have a big pre-season ahead of next season. Tony Popovic has been linked with multiple coaching positions throughout Asia and Europe and with top players like Martinez and Antonis heading back to their respected clubs the Wanderers will have a lot of negotiating to do if they are to keep Tony Popovic and key playmakers Martinez and Antonis.