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Western News PROUDLY INDEPENDENT
Friday, 29 March 2019
ISSUE 81
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2019 SHOWGIRLS
The 2019 Blacktown showgirls were announced last weekend. L to R: – Brian McCombe, 2018 Show Girl Desiree Autor, 2019 runner up – Sabrina Kay Andalis, Winner - Paula Cuyugan, Stephen Bali - MP and Mayor of Blacktown City Council, Wilma Drower – President Blacktown Show Society and Dr Alex Kolozsy – Showgirl sponsor.
Western News
local news
By KeRRIE DAVIES
I
n the lead up to the state election various news polls suggested an extremely tight race, a hung parliament and even a loss for the Berejiklian Government. Across the state, Labor candidates in marginal seats held by Liberals were beginning to believe their dreams might become a reality and Liberal government members began to worry about how effectively they’d be able to serve in a hung parliament situation, or worse, in opposition. But, as the sun went down on election day and the voting count began, it soon became apparent that the Berejiklian government would be returned without too much fuss – and without much change at all across the state. Gladys Berejiklian’s re-election as Premier is an historic one, with the Coalition now going into their third term of governing and Ms Berejiklian being the first female to win a New South Wales election. It is quite an achievement for someone who arrived here as a child unable to speak the language. Labor’s Kristina Kenneally was the first female NSW Premier when she succeeded Nathan Rees in a ‘within-the-party’ vote ten years ago, but she lost the 2011 election. There are many possible explanations for why the polls were off the mark. My guess is that it was a combination of contributing factors. I think some voters when faced with the possibility of change probably decided on polling day that the government had actually done a pretty good job
over the last two terms; as the saying goes, “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.” The other factor that cannot be overlooked was Opposition Leader Michael Daley’s abysmal performance in the debate with the Premier, and comments made last year about Asians that went over like a lead balloon. When Mr Daley conceded on the night of the election and declared that he would remain as
Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
Our local members re-elected in historic win for the government
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Opposition Leader, I’m sure eyebrows hit ceilings all over the state. Locally, Prue Car was successfully re-elected in Londonderry, Stephen Bali in Blacktown, Kevin Conolly in Riverstone, Mark Taylor in Seven Hills and Edmond Atalla in Mount Druitt. Congratulations to our re-elected members and commiserations to the unsuccessful candidates in each electorate but good on you for having a go!
Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry
Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
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Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Sales: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:
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Vineyard Riverstone Rouse hill Marsden Park Kellyville Ridge
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Prospect
ith the state election behind us it is now time to focus on what is essential for our local region to flourish into the future.
There is no doubt the NSW Government over the last 8 years has been rebuilding the state with very significant infrastructure projects that will serve for generations to come. It is now more important than ever that in this next 4 years infrastructure is not only planned, but construction is commenced. A key project that our community has been calling out for over a long period of time is a rail connection from north to south. Just prior to the recent election the state government committed to build a rail line from the western line at St Marys to the new airport. Whilst this is commendable that project needs to be expanded to include from St Marys to the Richmond line and onto the Northwest Metro at Tallawong Station. As it stands if that is not included in the project there will be no direct road or rail connection from the fast growing north west sector to the airport nor to the employment lands that are being created at the Aerotropolis. The new airport and supporting development has the potential to deliver significant employment opportunities for western Sydney but without a connecting rail link from north to south not all of the region will have public transport access and this would be a missed opportunity. There has been a great deal of talk about creating jobs close to where people live to improve lifestyle but also reduce the demands on our older road and rail infrastructure. The NSW Government now has an opportunity to commit to a transport project that will do exactly that, provide real public transport connectivity to new jobs in an exciting airport precinct in western Sydney.
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Western News
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By KeRRIE DAVIES
T
he loss of a child is a devastating experience that no parent should ever have to endure. One local mother who is in that unfortunate position has turned her grief into a foundation in her son’s name that helps others suffering the same gut-wrenching circumstances. She has now been recorgnised for her outstanding work. Member for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly MP has announced that Harinder Kaur of Glenwood is the Riverstone electorate Local Woman of the Year for 2019. The Local Woman of the Year Awards are designed to recognise inspiring female role models and to profile women who have demonstrated excellence in their career and women who make significant contributions to their community. “I congratulate Harinder on her outstanding contribution and thank her for her exceptional example as an energetic and motivated volunteer in our community,” said Mr Conolly. Harinder and her husband cofounded a not for profit charity in 2013 following the tragic death of their son, Harman. The Harman
Foundation is modelled on a mission of supporting and guiding members of the multicultural community who have experienced tragedies in their lives. Since its inception, Harinder has been the main driver of the foundation’s activities in the local community, supported by a committed group of volunteers she assembled over the years. In just the last two years Harinder has been instrumental in raising
over $180,000 for various charitable causes, including $91,000 for a Safe Home shelter for women affected by domestic violence. She manages a 1-800 community support phone line that operates 24/7 which has attracted around 1,600 calls in the last 3 years. Ms Kaur has served on the local Council Youth Advisory Committee and was twice nominated as a finalist in the local Council Woman of the Year Awards. Harinder is a founding member of the
Greater Western Sydney Multicultural Women’s network launched earlier this year. The foundation’s vision is “To keep in touch with our multicultural community needs, offering likeminded support services that cultivate unity, positivity and progression.” Their mission is “To deliver open, empathic support, guidance and reassurance during times of emotional and/or physical need – both immediate and ongoing. Provided via a range of cost-free, need-driven community well being services, by volunteers all committed to empowering the Harman Foundation’s dream of a safe, caring and harmonistic multicultural society for all.” “I am proud to nominate Ms Harinder Kaur as the Riverstone 2019 Local Woman of the Year and she is to be commended for her devotion and dedication in supporting the needs of families and women in distress in her local community”, said Mr Conolly. Harinder Kaur and other local Woman of the Year award winners from across the state were invited to join the Minister for Women, Tanya Davies at the 2019 NSW Women of the Year award ceremony held last month. Congratulations Harinder!.
› Mobile forum heads to Lalor Park Open space recreation and community safety programs will be headline topics at Blacktown City Council’s first community forum for 2019 in Lalor Park next month. Residents will get a chance to hear from their Ward Councillors and raise issues affecting the neighbourhood at the forum on Tuesday, 2 April at the Lalor Park Community Centre. Blacktown City Mayor Deputy Mayor Tony Bleasdale said: “The Council forum program is a very effective way for residents to have an open discussion with Council staff and Councillors. “We want more people to attend the forums and tell us what really matters to them.” Council will also present information on the different programs, services, venues, festivals and events that Council is responsible for. Councillor Bleasdale said: “We
have been running the forums for more than two years now, and residents have identified that this is one of the best ways to engage faceto-face with Councillors and Council staff.” The forum is the first of 5 Council Ward forums for 2019. Council will also be hosting 5 pop-up sessions at shopping centres and festivals giving more families a chance to engage with Council. “I encourage residents from different parts of Blacktown City to attend the forums and pop-up sessions to learn about the great things happening in Blacktown City.” Ward 2 Forum details When: Tuesday 2 April 2019 Time: 7 pm to 9 pm Location: Lalor Park Community Hall, 1 Freeman Street, Lalor Park (Cnr of Freeman St and Northcott Road).
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Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
Grieving mother named Riverstone’s Woman of the Year
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Western News
local news
W
hen it comes to retirement living, today’s savvy new-agers (those aged 55 and over) want strong communities close to local transport, and a diverse choice of health and wellbeing options on their doorstep. According to the World Health Organisation, the number of people aged 60 and older will outnumber children under five by 2020. So we need to make sure that we are creating homes and communities that cater to this growing audience. Lendlease operates one of Australia’s largest retirement living businesses with over 71 villages. Head of Development for Lendlease Retirement Living, Simon Militano, said that a key focus for today’s retirement living customer is having amenities that cater to an active and social lifestyle, like group fitness classes. “Staying active, both physically and mentally, is important to our residents, so it’s top of mind when we design or upgrade a Lendlease retirement
community,” said Mr Militano. And independent research clearly shows that residents living in Lendlease retirement villages report being healthier and happier than those living outside these communities. Locally, Jordan Springs is a Lendlease master planned community in one of the fastest growing areas in Western Sydney. Surrounded by 900 hectares of the spectacular Wianamatta Regional Park, this retirement community will include the resort-style facilities that over 55’s now demand in addition to social activities and wellness initiatives. The village will also include an exclusive residents’ Clubhouse which will feature an indoor heated pool, cinema, gym, bar, craft room, dining area and other inspiring spaces. Other than wellness, other key attractions to retirement living include the low maintenance lifestyle which is due to having help on hand when it comes to your home. This, combined with great
security (what the residents refer to as the ‘lock it and leave’ solution), gives a strong sense of comfort and reassurance to those residents who yield to the call of travel that not only will their home be safe while they’re away, but all the maintenance will be taken care of at the same time. The official launch event for this new community takes place on Saturday, April 6th in the Town Centre. Open to members of the public, guests will be treated to a complimentary gourmet BBQ by the lake and complimentary coffee. Jordan Springs open day is a perfect chance for those interested in joining the community to find out more information. Where: Jordan Springs, Lakeside Parade & Jordan Springs Blvd, Jordan Springs When: Saturday, 6 April 2019, 11am - 2pm More: www.retirementbylendlease.com.au or contact Carolyn Farbrother on 0430 189 447
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Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
Retirement living at its best in Jordan Springs
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Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
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Western News
Seven Hills shopper celebrates $50,000 Instant win
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Seven Hills shopper is $50,000 richer after scratching one of the top prizes of $50,000 on a $4 Bulldog Bingo Instant Scratch-Its ticket. The winning ticket was purchased at A & J Newsagency, 63 Boomerang Place, Seven Hills. However, how the winner plans to spend their $50,000 instant windfall will forever remain a mystery as they have chosen to remain completely anonymous and celebrate in private. A & J Newsagency manager Angel Shi said she hoped this was the first of many more winning Instant ScratchIts tickets to be sold at the outlet. “We were so excited when we discovered we’d sold a winning ticket!” she exclaimed. “We are so happy for our customer and hope they enjoy every moment of
their prize!” Instant Scratch-Its spokesperson Lauren Cooney said the Seven Hills winner was just one of many Instant Scratch-Its top prize winners from New South Wales in recent months.
“While we don’t know what big plans the latest Instant ScratchIts top prize winner has with this windfall, we do know that for many of our winners, seeing that prize in their bank accounts offers a world of
opportunities,” she said. “We look forward to crowning more Instant Scratch-Its winners as there are still a colossal number of prizes across all tiers available with Instant Scratch-Its. “Imagine what you could do with an additional $50,000 in your bank account! “Many winners tell us they use their Instant Scratch-Its top prize on home renovations, family holidays or upgrading their cars.” In 2018, there were 155 Instant Scratch-Its top prize winners across the Lott’s jurisdictions who collectively took home more than $14.26 million. The latest range of Instant ScratchIts tickets are available now at NSW Lotteries outlets. It can happen it an instant. It could happen to you.
› Charges now laid over Rouse Hill retail break in A man has been charged over an alleged break-in at a Rouse Hill retail store last week. Just before 3am on Thursday 21 March, police were called to a shopping centre on Main Street, after two men allegedly gained access to the store and were taking property.
Officers from The Hills Police Area Command attended and found a 29-year-old man, who had suffered a head injury after falling from the roof cavity. NSW Ambulance paramedics attended, and the man was taken to Westmead Hospital under police
ST MARYS DUTCH FESTIVAL MARCH 2019
guard. Following inquiries, about 2pm, the man was released from hospital and taken to Castle Hill Police Station. He was charged with aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence in company- steal more than $60,000.
The Willmot man was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court. Police are still seeking a second man in relation to the incident. Inquiries continue. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000.
In touch with the Dutch FREE EVENT
At the REMBRANDT Dutch Club 87 Dunheved Circuit, St Marys ~ 9623 2569
Friday 29th 10am - late Saturday 30th 10am - late Sunday 31st 10am - 4pm ~ Food from the Dutch Kitchen ~ Dutch Supermarket ~ Dutch Souvenirs
Entertainment Friday • Little Black Ducks • The Evergreen Choir • Japanese dancer • Miss Bliss SATURDAY • Ron Ashton • Dutch Treat • The Great Escape • (SH)Elvis SUNDAY • Dutch Connection & Backwater • Special appearance singer songwriter Conor Smit • Special show Trio; Michael, Sheryl and Herman Only during the Festival days a free shuttle from St Marys train station to the Rembrandt Club and back; Call from St Marys Station on the day Sjoerd 0401 680 638 Or Johan 0416 235 331. The shuttle is sponsored by the Abel Tasman Village. Thanking all the volunteers who are making this possible The Rembrandt Club St Marys is usually open Fridays 11am till 11pm Tuesdays 10-4pm. Information for members and their guests
S
t Marys Dutch Festival is on March 29, 30 and 31. Friday March 29 is senior day, the fun starts at 10am with entertainment from the Little Black Ducks till 3pm. At 11am the ‘Evergreens’ will bring a serenade to all seniors attending and at 3pm a special performance of a most beautiful Japanese dancer. No, it is not all Dutch on this day. We like to bring multicultural entertainment. Bring your senior friends, take them out for the day! Only on the Friday will all seniors get a free cup of coffee. Saturday and Sunday there will also be loads of things for the children to do.
There will be live music all weekend, from typical Dutch to Country and Australian tunes. Saturday and Sunday the kid’s corner will be busy. There will be a didgeridoo painting competition and lots of other things to do. You simply haven’t lived if you’ve never tried Dutch donuts (no holes, but plenty fruit) or the Poffertjes (mini pancakes). Your tastebuds are in for a treat with all the Dutch goodies available over the weekend. Visit the Dutch Festival on 2930-31 March held at the Rembrandt Club located at 87 Dunheved Circuit, St Marys and keep in touch with the Dutch.
Western News
local news
Ten week weight loss challenge starting this April
A
fter reading that the Hawkesbury was listed as the most obese area in NSW, Box ‘n’ Burn director Mark Hardman got together with boxing legend Johnny Lewis, to design a boxing / cardio program that would help the locals to get moving, increase their fitness, drop excess weight and improve mental health. Knowing that boxing burns off more calories than any other sport, the success and results were so staggering in the first ever challenge that Box ‘n’ Burn was born! The program is now held four times a year in over 18 locations in NSW and Queensland and has changed the lives of thousands of people over the past seven years. During the 10 week challenge, participants engage in boxing / cardio fitness, meet new friends, get great advice, change old habits and get motivated to make improvements in many aspects of their lives. As an added bonus, all participants can be in the running for the $5,000 prize money up for grabs! The camaraderie of each challenge
Box ‘n’ Burn outdoor boxing / cardio training is for everyone! This successful program has helped thousands of people on their fitness journey.
also takes away the isolation of doing it on your own. The participants encourage each other, seeing goals met and often exceeded and on those tough weeks, support each other. A very successful local Box N Burner is Karen Bennett, who attends both Winmalee and Penrith Box N Burn. She joined in January 2017 at 186kg, and by sticking to the Box N Burn meal plan and training four nights a week, this dedicated lady saw herself 12 months and 4 consecutive
*Valid until 15th August 2019, not to be used in conjuction with any other offer.
sessions later, down to 100kgs! A staggering Lots of hard work, following the Box N Burn meal plan 86kg loss! And she’s still and boxing up to 4 nights a week has seen Karen Bennett going! drop 86kgs in 4 consecutive Box N Burn challenges. “I love Box N Burn. It really has changed my life. Not only on their website www.boxnburn.info or has it made a huge difference to my call Mark Hardman on 0408 401 488. health but I have made lots of new You can also join their Facebook page friends and just love being active, to keep up to date with information happy and healthy again,” Karen said. and even have an opportunity to win a Box’n’Burn starts up again in April FREE membership for the next round! (just in time to burn off all those Easter www.facebook.com/BoxNBurnNSW eggs!). Registration details available What are you waiting for?
Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
Get ready to feel the burn!
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Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
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local columnists
Western News
Dreams of sailing on the south coast
Cupitt’s By BEN CRANNEY
I
sometimes wonder if I was a sailor in a past life. I love visiting working harbours. There’s something about the bright colours of the boats against the grey backdrop of the sky and sea, and maybe a bit of heavy romanticising about being out in the open and only having to worry about myself. Until recently, I only really noticed these places overseas, but there are lots around Australia, including Ulladulla on the south coast. If romanticising is what you want, this Easter is a good time to go down. This is when they celebrate
the Blessing of the Fleet, a tradition that’s centuries old in its native Italy and brought here by Italian fisherfolk. A Scottish Tattoo plays. St Peter, the patron saint of fisherfolk, leads a procession of floats down the street. And fireworks add colour over the harbour against the grey sky. Next to Ulladulla is Mollymook. It’s only a small place, but it attracts some big names like Rick Stein and his restaurant at Bannisters, and tech titan, Dave Greiner, and his beachfront getaway. With the relaxing beach and a golfcourse with a view, it’s easy to see why they’ve come here. But some of the best bits are away
Pigeon House Mountain
from the water. Stop in Milton, a National Trust historic town. Browse the antique and homemaker shops for all of those things you don’t need. And when you can’t stomach anymore fancy cushions, the bakery has amazing sausage rolls. About 45 minutes away is Pigeon House Mountain. It might be a few hours of reasonably intense walking to the top, but it’s definitely worth it. The view literally goes for days, because it would take more than one to get to the cliffs, valleys and peaks in the distance. And it’s so spectacular, you’ll want to. Beware if you do continue on. There’s a bit of
land that used to be an army base, and the car park signs warn of unexploded ordnance. If all of that sounds a bit too active, and you’re still stuck on the Milton sausage rolls, maybe try Cupitt’s winery. They have a big range of beers as well. Try the bright pink, hibiscus infused one. You’ll think you’re getting something very sweet until you taste it, and then it’s unmistakably beer. You’ll enjoy the hilltop view and cheese boards so much that you’ll loose track of the drinks. Thankfully, the taxis come quickly and we had no trouble leaving our car overnight. Next time: pubs
The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel The Fun Goes On
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hen my wonderful friend and mentor, Sarah Monaghan,* did my soul reading she said something rather strange had happened. At the end of her readings, she does a bit of spirit writing and usually it is rather serious and slightly biblical in tone. However, when she did mine it said that when I was nineteen I couldn’t possibly have imagined the adventures that were in store for me which is quite true. It then went on to say that I should get more ready for more to come and meanwhile put my feet up and have a nice cup of tea! We had a good old chortle about this because, as she said, that was very unSpirit-like language. When we talk about Spirit, it is often with reverence and to my mind conjures up an allencompassing celestial being whose enormity is beyond human comprehension. Those of you who are regular readers will know that I have oft quoted one of my favourite books, The Little World of Don Camillo, which is about a village priest in a small Italian village who has regular chats with God. Now God keeps Don Camillo on the straight and narrow and one would say that Don Camillo has a good one to one relationship with the Lord, but whenever God talks to the good priest it is in a loudly booming voice that brooks no argument.
But I had a couple of lovely reminders that the spirit world is not all seriousness and good works. A little while ago I thought I would like a little chat with Gran so I duly tuned in. “Hello dear, “ she said. “Is it important? I was just popping out,” and there she was together with my husband’s grandmother, all hatted and gloved and off for a rubber of celestial bridge. A wonderful meeting of two fabulous ladies who lived and died on opposite sides of the world. The other day I was feeling rather gloomy and
silently bemoaning the fact that I was no longer young and gorgeous - well sort of. Suddenly I heard a much loved voice, my very best friend Joy who died a few months ago. “You are a silly wotsit. You’re still not bad.” “She’s always like this,” chipped in another familiar voice. This was another incredibly dear friend Annie who has been gone for about fifteen years. “Oh my God!” I said. “You’ve met up.” “Of course we have. What did you expect? We’re having a great time together. Oh, and by the way, we’ve got your dog.” What a lovely thought. Joy and Annie who had never met in this life becoming firm friends and looking after my beloved Golden Retriever for me. It is a lovely thought that they are forever walking through sunlit bluebell woods trying to catch up with a plump little goldie puppy who is just trying out his baby angel wings. So don’t think the fun ends when we cross over. According to my lot it just begins all over again. * Sarah Monaghan at www.soulwardbound.ca Check her out. The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.
Western News
local news
By KeRRIE DAVIES
T
UESDAY March 26 was Purple Day, the day awareness is raised worldwide for epilepsy. When local residents Bert and Rosemary Bronkhorst received a phone call back in May 2009 to say that their eldest daughter Alexis had collapsed and been rushed to hospital, they were extremely worried, but had no way of knowing that every parent’s worst nightmare was about to unfold. A young mother expecting her second child, Alexis had always been happy and healthy. It was an exciting time in their lives; Alexis and her husband Kurt were over the moon about the impending birth of Bert and Rosemary Bronkhorst with Mark “MG” Geyer, holding a framed photo Alexis had always been a happy and their second child, and three-year-old of beautiful Alexis who had the world at her feet before being taken far too soon. healthy child Bryce was excited to become a big brother. Little sister Ashleigh was to become an aunty with the cruel hand that Alexis had been dealt; she reveled in the role of being a mother will be treasured again and Bert and Rosemary proud grandparents. was unable to drive nor be left alone. Kurt had to forever. In the week prior to presenting at Nepean Hospital, become full time Dad and carer for his wife. “She passed three weeks before her 26th birthday,” Alexis had been suffering from headaches and had Providing for his young family had become quite Rosemary said, emotional and tearful after going over been off-colour. a challenge for young Kurt as the following couple the traumatic events in order to share Alexis’ journey. It was over two months before Alexis was finally of years went by, and occasionally he was working “We all miss her so much.” released from hospital. In that time she’d been late into the night on his laptop after the family had “We hope that it can help explain the risks in transferred to Westmead, had spent five weeks in all gone to bed. epilepsy, and help prevent other families from intensive care where she’d been placed in an induced Just before 3am on November 22, 2012, Kurt suffering the same loss as we have.” coma. She had also undergone numerous tests, spent finished up and decided to take a shower before I’d like to thank the Bronkhorsts for opening their three weeks in the High Dependency Unit, and had climbing into bed next to Alexis. He walked past her hearts full of memories of their beautiful daughter been pumped full of medication to try to stop her sleeping frame to the bathroom, and as he returned he with me, in order to bring awareness to this very seizures. noticed that she was face down on the bed. Sensing important issue. Her diagnosis at discharge was Epilepsy. something was amiss, he attempted to wake her, and Not many people realise that Epilepsy can be fatal. Weekly follow-up visits were prescribed, along his worst fears were realised as he discovered she Awareness of SUDEP - Sudden Unexplained Death in with medication to control her condition, but epilepsy was unconscious. He performed CPR while waiting Epilepsy - is being promoted this month with Purple soon became part of every day life for Alexis, who for the paramedics to arrive. Day in an effort to raise awareness. The condition was by now having between one and 10 seizures a Bert and Rosemary were woken by a 3am call from also needs to be high on the political radar to ensure day. their daughter’s neighbour; there was ambulance at it receives the research attention it needs to prevent But she didn’t complain; just took it in her stride, the house. the fatal risks. as she had done with all challenges in her life. Flying out the door with a feeling of dread, it was It is a cause that is also close to heart for local “The seizures did become part of her life, and as sadly to become the worst day of their lives; forever legend Mark Geyer. a father I found it hard to witness them,” Bert said. etched in their hearts. Two of MG’s daughters have been diagnosed with “Rosemary was amazing though, as was Kurt. Alexis could not be revived. epilepsy. And Alexis herself - on the rare occasion that she She had lost the battle she had fought so hard to “Epilepsy needs to be tagged for research funding,” had a pre-warning from her body, she would try to conquer, and one of life’s most valued treasures was MG said. place herself somewhere where she could not hurt taken away in an instant. “Bert and Rosemary have lost a beautiful daughter herself.” But her memory lives on, loved and sadly missed in very traumatic circumstances, yet they are leading Despite these new challenges, later that year by the many hearts she touched during her short life the charge in an effort to help others.” healthy baby boy Zaine was born via C Section and of just under 26 years. Epilepsy Australia states that the risk of SUDEP life for the the young family resumed. The kind-hearted, happy go-lucky girl with the nationally is one in 3000 persons over a one-year But many changes had to be made to best cope stunning smile who loved to sing and dance and period. For persons with poorly controlled seizures the risk is one in 100 persons over one year. In children, SUDEP is an even rarer occurrence with the risk as low as one to two in 10, 000 over one year. “One of the very important challenges for Epilepsy Australia is to raise awareness and understanding of possible risks related to living with epilepsy,” A spokesperson from Epilepsy Australia said. “While this is a difficult topic for all concerned it is essential that we use research and community education to clearly identify where risks exist and what strategies can be developed to reduce them. “This includes the question of epilepsy-related death. While modest progress has been made in understanding epilepsy-related risks, there is still much work to be done, especially in the area of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). “Life is precious, and while the risk of SUDEP is low, all factors that may lead to injury or loss of life should be included in any risk management discussion. Informed decisions about treatment and lifestyle can only be made if all the information is A sisterly bond: Alexis and Ashleigh provided and consequences discussed.”
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Raising awareness about sudden death from epilepsy
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Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
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WESTERN HISTORY
A WW1 Soldier Remembered
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc
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n 2006, when I published my book “Timeless Heroes – Duty Called”, one of our Kingswood WW1 soldiers I was researching was missing (presumed dead). His name was Edward James Hope of the 54th Battalion AIF born in Kingswood in 1895 to parents William and Amy Hope. Edward attended the Penrith Superior Public School and was later employed in the family business, but at the time he enlisted in September 1915 he was an employee of the NSW State Rail. He left Australia in December that year after being allocated to the 13th Reinforcements of the 2nd Battalion and arrived in Egypt in February 1916 and was then allocated to the 54th Battalion as part of the restructure of the Australian Imperial Forces after Gallipoli. After training in Egypt, he embarked at Alexandria in June 1916 to Marseilles in France and after a week his Battalion was sent to the Western Front. In July he was reported missing during the Battle for Pozieres but by November his status was changed to KIA after the German authorities handed over paybooks of dead Australian soldiers to the Geneva Red Cross, but this was before his sister Florence Miriam Hope had received a communication from the Australian Red Cross Society in November 1916 apologising for telling her that her brother was a prisoner of war. The Killed in Action was confirmed by several members of his Battalion who saw Edward killed in action and his date of death was confirmed as the 20th July 1916 just one year after he enlisted. His body was buried in a mass grave by the German Army with no mention of his name or Country. In 1917 Florence was sent a package said to be part of Edward’s effects found during the war, but she found that the wrist watch with cover didn’t belong to Edward and sent it back with great disappointment as a faint inscription on the back proved it wasn’t Edward’s watch and was the only thing in the package. In December that year his sister was writing to the Victoria Barracks in Melbourne asking for details of her brother’s death. In August 1920 she received another package from London via the Victoria Barracks and in October 1921 she wrote to ask about Edward’s war medals (British War Medal & Victory Medal), letting them know that she was the only next of kin as her parents only had Edward and herself and her parents had died. In May 2008 a series of limited excavations was carried out by the Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division from the 26th May - 14th June 2008 under contract to the Australian Army. This story would have ended here but in July 2008 the Australian and UK Government’s announced a joint project to recover and re-inter into individual graves of the WW1 remains that were recently discovered adjacent to the Pheasant Wood war site in the French Town of Fromelles. This excavation was to prove once and for all whether the remains of up to 400 Australian and British soldiers were buried there. The analysis of the material at the site confirmed the presence of remains of both Australian and British servicemen and
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because of this, both Australian and UK Governments agreed to a joint project to recover, analyse and re-inter the remains of Pheasant Wood with the funding shared between the Governments. I checked the Government Defence website and found an article dated 2nd April 2009 from MP Hon Warren Snowdon who was the Minister for Defence Science & Personnel that had a contact number and a list of all those 400 servicemen missing. Because of this I contacted them and received a letter in 2009 from Major General M P O’Brien who was the Senior Australian Army Representative giving me notes of interest and I registered with them on the Army database. On the 26th June 2009 I put it on my website and the Society’s “Tribute” newsletter giving all the information and asking people connected to the family to get in touch, as well as sending emails and letters to all the relatives who had contacted me for my research, giving them the information to contact the Fromelles project at the Australian Army Headquarters in Canberra. At that time, I also wrote to the army and gave them all my information regarding Edward Hope and received an email straight away stating that they required my ongoing assistance to improve the chances of identifying Edward’s remains. They informed me that Edward had been included on the working list and they stressed that this does not confirm he is buried at Fromelles or that they will be successful identifying his body and to wait patiently. In November 2009 they were ready for those who had registered to provide DNA, but because I had given them my family information, I knew that I would not be suitable for this as my Thompson family married into the Hope family. In April 2010 I received a letter from Major J T Kerr from the Army thanking me for my continued support and reporting the fact that since January they had buried 249 of 250 soldiers recovered and identified by the DNA in the new cemetery at Fromelles, but “my soldier” (fingers x’d) wasn’t one of them. After some time, in March 2016 the Society received and email from Sue and Lindsay Hope looking for information on the Hope family and I gave them the information I had on the family and told them about the DNA project, and I found out that Lindsay was indeed related to Edward’s side of the Hope Family. Sue also said that Lindsay’s father David Kirklands Hope was still alive at the age of 101. He was the son of Percival Hope. For 103 years, Edward’s body lay in the ground in France, along with other soldiers in a mass grave where he was remembered on the Australian Cemetery Memorial at V.C. Corner in Fromelles and now after three years I JUST GOT AN EMAIL FROM SUE, WHO HAD A PHONE CALL FROM DAVID WILSON OF THE PROJECT, AND BECAUSE OF LINDSAY’S DNA EDWARD HAS BEEN FOUND AND WILL BE BURIED WITH ALL HONOURS AND A HEADSTONE IN THE NEW CEMETERY. Florence his sister, never married and died at Auburn in 1959. Sadly, David held on but died in 2016 not knowing they had found Edward’s body.
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Western News
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Self-Employed and looking to buy a home?
he way we work here in Australia has really changed over the last 20 years. More people are working for themselves, doing more than one job or working different sorts of hours.1 Real working life in Australia is pretty varied. 17% of Aussies are self-employed, with around 1 million being independent contractors. And we don’t all do a 40-hour week; nearly a third of us work part time.2 That’s why proof of ‘standard income’ is often something we don’t have when it comes to applying for a home loan. Yet research shows that 26% of Aussies that were turned down for a loan were declined because of employment status3.
Self-employed borrowers come up against the challenge of not being able to simply present payslips and tax returns to back up their loan applications. But this need not stop you buying your dream home. Many lenders offer loans for selfemployed borrowers who can’t hand over payslips and employment records. This means that, rather than the usual documentation, you prove your ability to service a loan using bank statements, declarations from your accountant and financial records. What’s the alternative? Go to an MFAA Approved Credit Adviser such as Wealthwiz, rather than a bank. Credit advisers have access to specialist lenders that assess applications on a case-by-case basis
and tailor their products to selfemployed borrowers and contractors, while bank lenders do not. Loans to the self-employed do differ from standard loans in a few ways, apart from the application process. Lenders offset the extra risk they are taking when lending to a selfemployed borrower or contractor by charging slightly higher interest rates and placing some extra rules on loanto-value ratios (LVR) and insurance requirements. Generally, you can expect an interest rate for such a loan to be one to two percentage points higher than for a full-documentation loan. Most lenders will also insist on an LVR of no more than 80 per cent – meaning that under no circumstances
will they lend more than 80 per cent of the property value, as assessed by the lender. In cases where the loan amount is for more than 60 per cent of the property’s value, some lenders also require self-employed borrowers to pay for lenders’ mortgage insurance. Contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the loan market for selfemployed borrowers
Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
Alex Soncini
REAL ESTATE
Sources: 1 http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/ abs@.nsf/DetailsPage/6202.0Mar%20 2017?OpenDocument 2 http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/ mf/6333.0 3 Pepper Money (2017). The Lost Aussies: 3.6 million locked out of the financial system. A Research Report. Pureprofile research, Sydney Australia, 2017
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Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
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Western News
SUDOKU: EASY
SUDOKU: MEDIUM
SOLUTIONS: 15 March EASY
INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates
CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Source of aid or support (8) 5 Discrimination against the elderly (6) 9 Threshold (8) 10 Daughterly (6) 12 Card game (9) 13 Blood vessels (5) 14 Past tense of “To be” (4) 16 Small dining room set (7) 19 Not himself (7) 21 Coral island (4) 24 Not daytime (5) 25 They import illegally (9) 27 Makes skin soft (6) 28 Language spoken in Tokyo (8) 29 Cease (6) 30 Compliant (8)
down 2 A pungent edible root (6) 2 Bobbins (6) 3 Cause to overturn (5) 4 Cleft (7) 6 Complaint (9) 7 Start (8) 8 Syrup made from sugar cane (8) 11 Emasculate (4) 15 Instances of hard physical labor (9) 17 Roofed (8) 18 Warships (8) 20 Bother (4) 21 A plant sometimes used in pies (7) 22 Break away (6) 23 Express agreement (6) 26 Secretes a hormone (5)
solution 15/3/19
Western News
SPORT
By CONNER LOWE
A
breathless second half saw Manly United and Mt Druitt Town Rangers play out a dramatic 2-2 draw at Cromer Park on Saturday night. The match was moved away from Popendetta Park, due to the weather that had hit Western Sydney throughout the week, only for the matchday kick- off to be delayed by an hour due to the lightning storm that caused havoc in the Northern Beaches. Manly were the quicker side out of the blocks, creating the most clearcut opportunities in the opening 30 minutes with attacker Brendan Cholakian at the heart of the Manly attacking play. The Rangers’ opening 45 minutes was one to forget after being forced to use all three substitutes in the first half due to injuries to Hiten Satoh, Fabricio Fernandez and Lachlan Roberts. Although, Rangers’ striker Alex Boyadjian was able to test the Manly keeper on multiple occasions. With the picturesque backdrop of distant lightning strikes illuminating the night sky, the match was belatedly sparked into life on the 55-minute
mark as Nikola Taneski was dragged to ground and the hosts were awarded a spot kick. Cholakian stepped up and confidently dispatched the ball into the bottom left corner, sending Saliadarre the wrong way. However Manly were unable to enjoy their lead for long. A 63rd minute Mt Druitt corner caused a frantic goal-mouth scramble, resulting in substitute Cooper Coskiere bundling the ball home to the delight of the visitors. Yet similarly, their jubilation soon evaporated thanks to a piece of individual brilliance from Manly’s
number 10 five minutes later. Cholakian was able to pick the ball up on the left edge of the box, skim past the Rangers’ defender and score a fantastic curling effort from outside the area. Rangers’ however were yet to give up on the match and just four minutes later, Nick Trimble rose highest off a long-range range free kick to flick the ball past Dylan Mitchell, restoring parity yet again. The final 20 minutes of the match produced multiple chances for each side as the second half came to a close, but both teams were unable to find a
winning goal. Ultimately, despite a heart-stopping conclusion, both clubs were forced into a share of the spoils, continuing their winless starts to the campaign. It was a gutsy performance from Mt Druitt, who created their fair share of opportunities to win it despite losing three players to injury in the first half and being pinned back by a determined Manly side for extended periods. Mt Druitt will be relieved after finally grabbing their first points of the season. The Rangers’ will now face Rockdale City Suns FC at Ilinden Sports Centre on Sunday.
Blacktown draw in emphatic game against Olympic By CONNER LOWE
A
n incredible Sydney Olympic fightback has stunned Blacktown City as the reigning premiers snatched a dramatic 3-3 draw in their National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s clash at Belmore Oval on Sunday. Blacktown took a two-goal lead in the opening 15 minutes of the match with Grant Lynch and Leroy Jennings scoring for City, only for Olympic to fight their way back into the contest throughout the contest. A Joey Gibbs goal early in the second half had the visitors in the driver’s seat, but it wasn’t to be with Olympic snatching a point thanks to a Jason Madonis goal 19 minutes from full time. Olympic came out firing with Madonis creating his first chance after four minutes, letting off a shot but earning a corner for his efforts. Jinya An took the corner, sending the ball straight to Jack Stewart who connected, but headed it wide. The crowd didn’t have to wait long for a goal, with the opener coming just 10 minutes into the match for the visitors. Grant Lynch connected with the corner kick, sending a header straight into the netting. The second goal followed just minutes later for Blacktown, earning them a two-goal lead in just the 13th minute. Olympic keeper Paul Henderson dove to save
a shot from Blacktown but fumbled while collecting the ball. Leroy Jennings capitalised on Henderson’s error tapping the ball in to finish. Olympic were able to drag themselves back into the match in the 38th minute. Kuleski curved a brilliant free kick from outside the 18-yard box straight into the back of the net to score the first for the home side. Alex Sanchez came out firing in the second half, scoring from the first play of the half. Stewart slid a ball through the Blacktown ranks to the Spaniard who hammered one straight past Blacktown goalkeeper Tristan Prendergast to equalise. Joey Gibbs was able to put Blacktown back into the lead in the 52th minute with the third for the visitors. Gibbs hit a powerful
shot from range, sending the ball over the top of Henderson into the netting. Yet another equaliser was scored in the 71st minute, this time from Olympic skipper Jason Madonis. Will Angel threaded a ball through to Harris Gaitatzis, who timed his ball perfectly, tapping to Madonis who smashed the ball into the net to score the sixth and final goal from the match. The match finished 3-3 with some fantastic goals from both sides producing the game of the season thus far. Blacktown City will now face Sutherland Sharks FC at Lily Homes Stadium on Sunday.
Western News 29 March 2019 Issue 81
Mt Druitt comeback twice to seal dramatic draw
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Western News Friday, 29 March 2019
SPORT
Polo International - Australia vs England By Noel Rowsell
W
indsor Polo Club will host the Polo International Australia vs England Event on 6th April, at Windsor Polo Club, Lot 303 Old Kurrajong Road, Richmond. The Polo International is the only sanctioned International polo event in Australia, making it Australia’s premier polo event. The format for the event will be the same as the 2018 event, showcasing Australia’s young up and coming talent with the Colts match from 11.30am, followed by a Ladies match at 1.00pm. The main event will commence at 3.30pm, with the Australian and English Men’s teams playing for the Mountbatten Memorial Trophy. The Australian Men’s squad is Glen Gilmore 6g, Matt Grimes 6g, Jack Archibald 6g, Ruki Baillieu 6g, Dirk Gould 5g, Alec White 5g and Jake Daniels 5g.
Action from the Australia vs New Zealand Men’s event in 2018. Photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)
England Men’s team is James Harper (captain) 7g, Jack Richardson 7g, Tommy Beresford 6g, and Jimbo Fewster 3g. The Australian Ladies Squad is Alessia Russo 4g, Billie Mascart 5g,
Indiana Bennetto 5g, Whitney Warren 4g and Philipa Fitz-Henry 4g The English Ladies Team is Lottie Lamacraft 6g (Captain), Lucy Bliss 4g, Sian Barnacle 6g and Alex James 3g In addition to the Polo, the Club
is providing plenty of entertainment off the field on the day, including the Juan & Me ‘Fashions on the Field’ competition, divot-stomping and the PurePolo Marketplace, showcasing local businesses from the Hawkesbury and surrounds. Windsor Polo Club is the largest public club in the Sydney region, with 3 playing fields. A number of other prestigious events are held at Windsor Polo Club each year, including the Australian Open (the highest ranked tournament in the country), the Countess of Dudley Cup (the highest ranked Club-based tournament in the country), the JK Memorial Trophy, The Winten Cup and The Morton Cup - all NSW Polosanctioned events. General Admission starts at $40 per person; VIP Garden Party Marquee start at $200pp; Car Boot Picnic Bookings start at $500 for 20 guests; coach transfer from CBD costs $50 return. Tickets can be purchased from www.polointernational.com.au