Western News 30 April 2021 by Nepean News

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Friday, 30 April 2021

ISSUE 134

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Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

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Blacktown City Festival is back B

lacktown City Festival is back and there will be something for everyone to enjoy! The Festival will run for 10 days from Friday 21 May to Sunday 30 May and will include more than 20 events, concerts, exhibitions, markets, a Medieval Fayre and Banquet, and a parade. The 2020 Blacktown City Festival was cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. “After an extremely challenging 12 months, Blacktown City Council is proud to be able to once again provide fun, excitement and a range of rich cultural experiences for all the community,” said Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and in the interest of public health, Council has made some changes to traditional Festival events and booking procedures. The number of people attending all events will be limited in line with the public health guidelines and bookings will be required for most events. “The festivities will begin with fun at the Lots of Laughs comedy night, featuring some of Australia’s best comedians,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “The Reconciliation Walk and Gathering in Mount Druitt will be a festival of entertainment, dreamtime stories, cultural workshops and art displays celebrating our Aboriginal culture and heritage. “We’ll step back in time at the Blacktown City Medieval Fayre and Medieval Banquet and there will be music performances throughout the Festival ranging from opera through to blues, jazz, soul and R-n-B from some of Australia’s best performers.

“The traditional street parade will be replaced by a parade and mini-festival at the Blacktown International Sportspark at Rooty Hill, featuring rides, performances, arts and crafts, and food stalls. “I am looking forward to all the events this year, especially after what we have all endured and we extend a warm invitation to people of all ages to come and celebrate the 2021 Blacktown City Festival”, Mayor Bleasdale said. Main Events: Lots of Laughs Comedy Night: Friday 21 May 8.15pm – West HQ and Friday 28 May 8.15pm– Blacktown Workers Club. Reconciliation Walk and Gathering: Saturday 22 May 10.30am to 2.30pm – Dawson Mall, Mount Druitt – dreamtime stories, cultural workshops, stalls and entertainment. Blacktown City Medieval Fayre: Saturday 22 May & Sunday 23 May 10am to 3pm – Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside. Birds of Prey, medieval displays, arts and crafts, pony rides and a Jousting Competition Blacktown City Medieval Banquet: Saturday 22 May 6.30pm– Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside. An authentic recreation of the Medieval banquet celebration that took place either before or after an epic battle. Bluey Kids Concert: Wednesday 26 May 10am, 11.50am and 1.30pm – Bowman Hall, Blacktown. Join Bluey and Bingo on stage for the live and interactive show Play School Concerts: Friday 28 May 10am and 1pm - Bowman Hall, Blacktown. Join all the

characters from Play School for their Let’s Play Together Concerts. Blacktown Night Markets: Friday 28 May 4pm to 9pm - redeveloped Warrick Lane Precinct, Blacktown. Live music, street food, desserts and plenty of food trucks. Blacktown City Parkfest Saturday 29 May 10am to 3pm – Blacktown International Sportspark, Rooty Hill. Several performance areas, arts and crafts, rides, food market and a spectacular parade showcasing Blacktown’s diverse, multicultural community. For all Festival information go to: www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/festival

Site announced for new high school in Marsden Park The NSW Government announced the site for the new high school in Marsden Park will be located on Elara Boulevard and Kaluta Avenue. Member for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly said the new high school will create a high quality facility for students for years to come. “The NSW Liberals & Nationals made a commitment to the community of Marsden Park that we would commence planning for the new high school in this term and I am pleased that we can confirm its location today. “We know this is one of the fastest growing areas in the state and I am proud that this government is

continuing to invest in new and upgraded schools,” Mr Conolly said. Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the new high school will provide opportunities for the local community. “I am thrilled that plans are progressing for the new high school and I’m looking forward to hearing from the community about their thoughts and ideas for the new school,” Ms Mitchell said. “Feedback will be important to ensure we deliver a unique new school with modern facilities that are designed specifically for the needs of this community.

“As part of our unprecedented school building program, we have delivered 11 new and upgraded schools in north-west Sydney in the last two years.” The next steps for the project will include consultation will the local community as the project goes through design, development and preparation of planning documentation. The NSW Government is investing $7 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver more than 200 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

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lacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals (BMDH) has appointed a new Director of Nursing and Midwifery – Ms Marie Baxter. Marie joins the hospital from Western Australia, where she has been the Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery for Western Australia Rural and Country Health Services. “I feel very fortunate to have been appointed this role; I am excited to support the growth and development of the nursing and midwifery team,” Marie said. “At the end of the day, what I want is a happy, sustainable nursing and midwifery workforce. “My role is fluid and everchanging, but essentially I am the bridge between management and nursing and midwifery staff. I need to marry what our nurses and midwives need with what the district needs so we can be aligned and meet all our objectives.” Marie started her nursing career in the UK and brings with her extensive management and operational experience across both metro and regional health as well as community services with a

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

strong passion for exemplary nursing care. “I knew I wanted to be a nurse from the age of 12 and I wanted to be the best nurse I could be. “By the time I left the UK in 1995, I was a senior nurse but did not expect to get into that role when first arriving in Australia as I didn’t know the healthcare system. “I worked my way back up in Australia – this gave me a very holistic view and an authentic sense for the nursing scene.” Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals’ general manager Ned Katrib said the appointment of this role will set Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals on a pathway to a bright future. “We’re very excited to have Marie join our team as we continue to drive excellence in care and service delivery,” Ned said. “We are committed towards embedding a culture of compassion, capability and innovation across Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals.” A special thank you to Ms Cheryl Trudinger who has been acting in the position for the last few months and will now commence in her new role of Operation Nurse Manager Medical. Welcome to western Sydney Marie!

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

A new era of nursing leadership arrives at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

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From the Editor’s Desk By KeRRIE DAVIES

n May 9 we celebrate Mother’s Day. It is an opportunity to show our mums how much we love and appreciate everything that they do, and the unconditional love that comes with it. Being a mum can sometimes be a thankless job and it is one that brings extraordinary highs and lows. Children are quite often the source of a mother’s greatest joys but also the greatest heartaches. A simple smile from her child can dazzle a mother’s world. A sharp retort from the same child can shatter her heart. As someone who has to face Mother’s Day without my mum, I hope you’ll allow me to give some advice to those of you who still have your mum here. Make every single day with her count. The pain of losing your mother is something that is so intense it is indescribable. Even though our mums are older and often frailer, we never really prepare for the enormity of losing a parent. The loss is such a massive void in your life that can never be replaced. It is the loss of so many things; the security that mums provide as the person who loves you no matter what, warts and all. It is the loss of the person who is more interested in your life than anyone else on the planet. It is the loss of that person who you know will always have your back; and the bond you share that is stronger than any force in the universe. It rips your heart out when the realisation hits that they are gone. Forever. It is then that you begin to miss absolutely everything, even the annoying things. I’d give anything now to answer my phone to my mum nagging me about something. I’d now relish the opportunity to get up from relaxing on the couch to run some errand that is hard for her to do herself. And I’d give every material possession I have if I could exchange them for just one hug from her. If you are lucky enough to still have your mum with you, start from this Mother’s Day forward to appreciate her every single day. Tell her you love her at every single opportunity. When she needs assistance remember that when you were the little one needing help, she did it without question. When she nags you, see it for what it is and be glad of it - it is concern for the welfare of her greatest treasure, you. And remember that a smile or a snarl can make or break her day. Happy Mother’s Day

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lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM issued a big final ‘Official’ thank you to all the residents, emergency workers, volunteers and Council staff who worked so hard, during and after the flood event in March. “In addition to the vital work by our own emergency repair crews, I am pleased that Council staff played a vital role for the community through our information and communication services,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “The cleaning up in Marsden Park, Shanes Park and Riverstone is now complete. “Our Council crews have removed a total of 100 tonnes of rubbish since

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

Council flood clean-up

the flood, fixed hundreds of pot holes and a number of washaways.” Mayor Bleasdale said. During last weekend alone, Council crews removed 20 tonnes of rubbish, 5 mattresses and 20 tyres. Blacktown City Council also provided crews and equipment to help our neighbours in Penrith and Hawkesbury Council areas. The Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre also provided additional shelter for pets and livestock affected by the floods. Residents can continue to book clean ups through Council’s Household Clean Up Service on 9839 6000.

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Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

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Blacktown City Multicultural Awards

efugees from Iraq and Western Sudan, alongside an Indian dance academy, are among the winners of Blacktown City’s inaugural Multicultural Awards, announced at a colourful and festive celebration of diversity. The Blacktown City Multicultural Awards recognise the extraordinary contributions and leadership of residents from multicultural backgrounds and local multicultural service providers and businesses. The Volunteer of the Year, Inspirational Person of the Year, and Organisation or Business of the Year were named at a recent awards ceremony hosted by Blacktown City Council with representatives of more than 20 cultures in attendance. NSW Labor leader and Shadow Multicultural Minister, Jodi McKay MP, the Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP and Multicultural NSW Chairperson, Dr Hari Harinath were special guests at the event. Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said the first Blacktown City Multicultural Awards were a spectacular display of the best diversity has to offer. “Our residents come from more than 185 countries and speak more than 180 languages,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “We are a wonderful, unified, multicultural City where everyone is welcome – and if you are a refugee, you are doubly welcome. “The Blacktown City Multicultural Awards are designed to shine a light on the outstanding achievements and contributions of the countless locals from so many different backgrounds who work tirelessly for our community. “Congratulations to all the well-deserving winners of the 2021 Multicultural Awards.” Volunteer of the Year was jointly awarded to Hanna Shamoka and Gladyss Panoncillo. Hanna came to Australia in 2013 as a humanitarian entrant from Iraq and has volunteered with SydWest Multicultural Services since 2016, assisting people from Arabic speaking backgrounds to settle successfully in Mount Druitt. Gladyss, who is of Filipino background, is a compassionate and hardworking mother of a son with special needs, as well as a part-time registered nurse at Blacktown Hospital. She has volunteered for 10 years as a facilitator for Carers NSW and has organised numerous events for

(L-R) Councillor Carol Israel and Cr Kathie Collins OAM, with 2021 Multicultural Awards winners Ahmed Shmela, Gladyss Panoncillo, Dr Kanan Shah (on behalf of the Nartan Institute of Performing Arts), Hanna Shamoka, and Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, Blacktown City Mayoress, Nina Bleasdale, and Cr Susai Benjamin.

parents, carers, and families of people with disability through the Rooty Hill Multicultural Carers group. Inspirational Person of the Year was awarded to Ahmed Shmela. Originally from the Nuba Mountains in Western Sudan, Ahmed arrived as a refugee in 2003 and has grown from a client of SydWest to a leader in the organisation. Ahmed is tireless in his efforts for the Blacktown City community, including offering his services as a Justice of the Peace, as a volunteer Arabic teacher at the Seven Hills Centre, as manager of the Blacktown Workers Club under-10s soccer team, and as the founder of the Charity Society of Nuba Mountains. Organisation or Business of the Year was awarded to Nartan Institute of Performing Arts, which provides training in Bharatnatyam, Bollywood and Folk Dances of India for all ages and abilities. Director, founder and principal teacher Dr Kanan Shah established the Institute in 2012 after migrating to Australia. The organisation has since trained more than 600 people from a variety of cultural backgrounds, instilling students with confidence and leadership, and the values of respect, patience, hard work, and care. The Blacktown City Multicultural Awards also included the public launch of Council’s Multicultural

Strategy and Action Plan. The Plan was developed by consultants Embrace Society with Council’s Multicultural Advisory Committee, chaired by Councillor Susai Benjamin. “The Multicultural Strategy and Action Plan, is designed to enshrine diverse voices in Blacktown City and to draw on the manifold cultures, faiths, and experiences of our community as part of the ongoing transformation of our City,” Cr Benjamin said. “The strategy focuses on social inclusion, community resilience, justice and fairness, social and civic participation, and economic benefit.” Mayor Bleasdale thanked Paula Masselos, Managing Director of Embrace Society and the Mayor of Waverley Council, for authoring such a progressive piece of social policy for Blacktown City. “I strongly believe that this Strategy will make our great City even more accessible and welcoming to people of all backgrounds, building on our already strong policies of inclusion and community cohesion,” Mayor Bleasdale said. To learn more about Blacktown City’s multicultural community or to download a copy of the Strategy, please visit: https://www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au/Community/Our-people/Multiculturalcommunity.

2021 Community Building Partnership Program now open

ember for Londonderry Prue Car has announced applications are now open for the 2021 Community Building Partnership program, with $300,000 available for projects in our local state electorates. Previous rounds of the program have delivered local parks, school playground upgrades and new sporting facilities across Western Sydney. “Local sports clubs, school P&C’s, churches and charities are just some of the groups that can benefit from this program,” Prue Car said. “If your organisation or club needs funding for infrastructure, such as playgrounds or facility upgrades, then please head online and apply.” Applications are now open and close at 5pm sharp on Friday 14 May 2021. Applicants must read the program guidelines to ensure their club or organisation and proposed project are eligible. For more information about the 2021 Community Building Partnership Program, you can visit: www. nsw.gov.au/cbp

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rowing up in Granville, Loretta Di Mento knew Westmead Hospital was admired by the local community. Now she has the chance to steer the future of Westmead and Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) as the youngest member of the District’s board. Ms Di Mento joined the WSLHD Board at the start of 2020 and assumed the role of deputy chair this year, taking over from the outgoing Professor Jeremy Chapman AC who served on the board with distinction for more than ten years. Though she now lives in the inner west, Ms Di Mento’s ties to the area remain strong. She grew up in Granville and Greystanes and did work experience at a radiography clinic in Wentworthville – inspired by her mother, a nurse and midwife. “When I was growing up, Westmead Hospital was always admired in our community, known as a leader in health and research. Joining the board last year has confirmed all that I remember about the precinct and the District,” Ms Di Mento said. “It starts with the amazing staff – their dedication, professionalism and care. Last year more than any other has shown us the immense value of their expertise and resilience across

partners, we will only get better. Most importantly, we will keep the staff, patients and community at the centre of our work.” Board members are appointed by the NSW Minister for Health for a term of up to four years, and take on responsibilities including measuring the District’s performance and ensuring services are provided efficiently and responsibly. WSLHD Board members (from left) Adjunct Professor Mick Reid, Professor Don Nutbeam, chief executive Graeme Loy, Adjunct Professor Debra Thoms, Loretta Di Mento, Narelle Bell, Dr Keith Hartman, Professor Diana O’Halloran AO, Andrew Bernard, Richard Alcock AO and Professor Michael Edye.

so many places in the District. “Even after everything that 2020 brought, their motivation and constant drive to plan for the future continues, focused on improving the experience and outcomes for patients, their families and the western Sydney community.” Ms Di Mento has over 25 years’ corporate experience and more recently as a board and committee member across several health and education organisations, including the audit committee of Health Infrastructure NSW – the body responsible for delivering projects including the $1 billion Westmead Redevelopment.

After a year to better understand her role, Ms Di Mento said she has her sights set on specific goals to improve patient experience, diversity and inclusion across the District. “As a board member and moving into the role of Deputy Chair, I want to draw on all the skills and experience of my fellow board members, to continue to support the executive and teams throughout the district in delivering better health for Western Sydney,” she said. “There is increasing complexity, some big demands and ongoing challenges for our system, but with the collaborative efforts of our great medical minds, leaders and

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Loretta Di Mento

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

Western Sydney local rises to challenge of steering health district

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

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Blacktown’s health in check with $700 million investment

(L-R) Mark Taylor (Member for Parramatta), Paul Goudie (ICU NUM) Associate Professor Graham Reece (ICU Director Blacktown Hospital), Carol Farmer (WSLHD Director of Nursing and Midwifery), Kevin Conolly (Member for Riverstone), Brad Hazzard (NSW Minister of Health), Ned Katrib (Blacktown Hospital General Manager), Richard Alcock AO (WSLHD Board Chair)

he $700 million expansion of Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals is complete with the official opening of the multi-award winning acute services building. Health Minister Brad Hazzard was joined by local MPs Mark Taylor and Kevin Conolly for the plaque unveiling at Blacktown Hospital campus, celebrating an end of works. “This redevelopment has transitioned Blacktown from a hospital serving its locals well, into a major metropolitan health hub servicing Western Sydney,” Mr Hazzard said. “The community has expanded services on its doorstep and the latest

healthcare technology, particularly in the new intensive care unit with its digital operating theatres. “The people of Blacktown and Mount Druitt should be enormously proud of the world-class facility they helped create, which will future proof health services for decades.” Co-designed with community members, staff, patients and carers, the nine storey acute services building has set new benchmarks for clinical design and innovation. Member for Seven Hills, Mark Taylor, said the new emergency department was the result of years of careful planning to provide the best

Blacktown Hospital Official Opening Ministerial Visit. Left to right: Brad Hazzard (NSW Minister of Health), Mark Taylor (Member for Parramatta), Ned Katrib (Blacktown Hospital General Manager), Prof Michael Edye (Director, Division of Surgery and Anaesthetics at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals), Carol Farmer (WSLHD Director of Nursing and Midwifery), Kevin Conolly (Member for Riverstone), Richard Alcock AO (WSLHD Board Chair)

possible space for staff and patients. “Clinicians have told us this building, with its separate adult and paediatric resuscitation bays, can help change the way emergency medicine is delivered here,” Mr Taylor said. In addition, the new ED will include acute care, urgent care, short stay, bedside imaging and a dedicated section for mental health emergencies. The ED has drop-off at the door and dedicated parking, while the new intensive care unit provides more spacious patient rooms and overnight family rooms for relatives.

Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said the NSW Government has delivered on its health promise to residents of Blacktown and Mount Druitt, as it has done elsewhere. “Since 2011, our Government has invested a staggering $13 billion to build, upgrade and redevelop 150 hospitals and health facilities right across NSW,” Mr Conolly said. The NSW Government has committed a further $10.7 billion on health infrastructure projects over the next four years, with two-thirds of those in rural and regional areas.

$500,000 grant to help new western Sydney parents with healthcare tips

ew parents will receive more education and guidance through the healthcare system thanks to a new program produced by Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) and the University of Sydney. The Parenting+ (Parenting Plus) program will be rolled out across Western Sydney and Sydney LHDs after receiving $495,760 funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council through the Partnership Projects scheme. It is designed to assist people like Carlingford mum Joanna Mak and her 18-month-old daughter Arabella, who took part in the original pilot program funded in 2019 by WSLHD Research and Education Network and WentWest. “It was great to meet weekly with other new parents and an early childhood expert close to home. They gave us tips on first aid, medicine, nutrition, and just generally what to expect with your child’s development and changes in your own life,” Joanna said. “It was definitely helpful. It got me out of the house and made me a lot comfortable being out in public with my baby, doing things like feeding and changing her in public. It was a good stepping stone and really helpful socially.”

communities, and ultimately help new parents and their bubs to be healthier and more confident.” Parenting+ is among ten new medical research projects funded through the latest National Health and Medical Research Council’s Partnership Project schemes, announced today by the Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt.

David and Joanna Mak with their daughter Arabella, who took part in the Parenting+ pilot program.

Parenting+ was established by Westmead research fellow Dr Danielle Muscat with input from WSLHD staff including Child and Family Health program lead Lyn Tunchon, nurse Anne Harris, and Multicultural Health team leader Dipti Zachariah. Dr Muscat is a co-founder of the WSLHD Health Literacy Hub – a joint initiative with the University of Sydney, designed to make healthy choices easier for everyone by connecting people to easy-tounderstand information and ideas to improve health. “Parenting Plus fits really well with existing community parenting classes, which cover essential topics such as

childhood development, changing relationships and mental health,” Dr Muscat said. “We’ve embedded health literacy skills into those classes, to empower new parents to access healthcare services, advocate for your child’s healthcare, and think critically about health information you hear or find online. “The feedback from parents was fantastic and the opportunity to codesign the program with end-users was invaluable. “We are so grateful to now be able to roll this out across two huge health districts; this is going to make a big difference for families in our

Dr Danielle Muscat

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hether it was stress eating, boredom baking or Zoom drinks, many of us may have noticed our waistlines increasing and exercise levels decreasing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Even more surprising is the amount of exercise required to burn off certain foods that might have become more frequent indulgences over the past year and contributed to COVID kilos. Following a strict diet and intense exercise plan can seem unachievable, but did you know even the simplest tasks like hanging out the washing, or vacuuming can burn between 400900 kilojoules?

WSLHD Centre for Population Health deputy director Christine Newman provided us with a few achievable everyday activities you can do to lose the COVID kilos. • Walking. While this may seem obvious, 30 minutes of walking everyday can help improve both physical and mental health. It can be as simple as walking to the local shops, taking the dog for a walk or doing a lap around the block. Every step you take is a step towards better health! • Take the stairs instead of the lift. This one speaks for itself. The stairs are a quick and easy way to get moving. • Gardening. Gardening is a great

outdoor activity that gets you moving. Not only can you burn kilojoules, it has been shown to elevate your mood and help with stress and anxiety. • Cleaning. As we all know, cleaning the house can be exhausting. Simple tasks such as vacuuming, cleaning the windows and mopping all get the heart rate pumping and can be a great way to get those steps up. • Get outside with the kids. Walk to the local park or kick a ball in your backyard. Kids and adults could both benefit from being in the great outdoors. Christine said that whilst weight loss may be a priority, it is equally important to focus on your mental health.

“The COVID-19 pandemic was, and still is, a stressful time for many people but getting outside and increasing your level of physical activity can often benefit your mental health,” Christine said. Want more help to be active or interested in healthy eating advice? • Visit NSW Health Healthy Eating Active Living. • Sign up for your free health coach or find more information from the NSW Health Get Healthy Service • Local exercise classes in Western Sydney are available here and for older people are available here. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14.

Why is western Sydney’s diabetes hotspot costing $1 billion?

Other highlights for WSD in t’s been revealed more than 2020 included: 91,500 people in western • The establishment of the WSD Sydney have diabetes –costing Virtual Care with telehealth and New South Wales $1.48 billion cloud based solutions, replacing a year in healthcare and other most face-to-face consultations economic impacts. during COVID-19. According to the Western Sydney • Opening of the weekly Diabetes (WSD) Year in Review for community diabetes clinic in the 2020, the disease rates are higher in Mount Druitt Community Health western Sydney than wider NSW, Centre. making Sydney’s west an official • Rolling out the Diabetes diabetes “hotspot”. Together App and linking it to WSD Director Professor Glen CareMonitor – a shared care, Maberly is alarmed with the real-time remote monitoring and growing number of people living population health management with diabetes and its costs – both on platform. people and for treatment. If you have any health or diabetes It’s estimated that the health and concerns, please contact your GP other costs of a person with type 2 in the first instance for advice. You diabetes are a staggering $16,124 Western Sydney Diabetes 2020 endocrine registrar, Dr Andrew Lin, WSD Director, can also visit the Western Sydney per year. Professor Glen Maberly and endocrinologist Dr Rajini Jayaballa. Diabetes page. Professor Maberly says if the “Often people living with diabetes are unaware western Sydney diabetes hotspot is not addressed, it will cause an unsustainable economic burden on the of the signs or symptoms. If gone untreated, late diagnosis of diabetes can result in kidney disease, state’s healthcare system within a decade. “It’s estimated the cost to treat a person with heart disease and blindness,” Professor Maberly type 2 diabetes was more than $16,000 each year,” said. “Let us become smarter in the way we tackle Professor Maberly said. “It’s possible to beat type 2 diabetes by making diabetes together.” Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) changes to your diet and lifestyle.” Over the past four years, diabetes screening in is leading the charge on ‘beating diabetes together’, general practices across western Sydney identified as part of the Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) 17 per cent of patients with diabetes and 27 per cent initiative. The collaborative initiative led by WSLHD, with pre-diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a condition where a person the Western Sydney Primary Health Network PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC becomes resistant to insulin or their pancreas is no (WentWest), A western Sydney patient having a close glucose longer able to produce enough insulin to counteract Australia), Diabetes NSW & ACT and the monitoring sensor inserted into their arm. Department of Primary, Industry and Environment. the food eaten.

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

Tackling COVID kilos: the hidden kilojoules in those indulgent foods

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

WESTERN HISTORY

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A Dedicated St Marys Nurse

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

n August 1916, St Marys Council put a crossing from Station Street to the railway yard. At a meeting of Council that month, Alderman Campbell specified several matters referring to this and would subsequently be attended to as being within the “King’s Estate Subdivision”. Mr Lalor informed Council that he had recently purchased from Mr Willis a block of land situated at the top of Station Street near the railway which was adjacent to Nurse Ethel May Edwards’ hospital premises in Queen Street. Nurse Edwards (who served in WW1 as a Staff Nurse for a year) was born in England in 1881. The block mentioned originally formed part of the King Estate and Mr Lalor was desirous of building a dwelling on the property and he wanted to know if the Council would open up the street because the land was enclosed by the King’s Bush fence. He specifically wanted to be informed as to his bearings regarding his frontage to the streets, etc?. Alderman Morris said that he had seen a map in the Lands Office in Sydney and the block mentioned had, he believed, three frontages, one to Station Street, one to Mr Wright’s land (occupied by Nurse Edwards’ Hospital), and one to Mr Garner’s property in the vicinity. Nurse Edward’s hospital was at the top end of Station Street and partly enclosed by the King’s Bush fence, with no street alignment. Ethel wrote to Council calling their attention to “a matter of importance and injustice she had tolerated for some years owing to the neglect of Council in failing to have Phillip Street cleared and she was obliged to frequently travel ‘three sides of a square’ to reach her hospital as the adjacent bush was frequently a harbour for snakes and other vermin,’’ and she thought it was time the Council took steps to clear the impeded thoroughfare, which was referred to Council’s Works Committee for consideration. They visited the locality but could not find any marks or data that would enable the position of the streets to be located as there appeared to be a dead-end to Gidley and Phillip Streets and there were no definite indications of streets or boundaries but commented that it was not the fault of the Works Committee if no such evidence existed that would enable them to disclose the boundaries. They also said that it would appear that a number of the streets had not been definitely marked out, but, the streets were marked on the deeds of the people who had purchased land in the vicinity from the King family and that there were three streets that existed on the deeds, one being at the rear of the hospital property but the Council had no official knowledge of those roads and had not taken the roads over, so fences had been erected across some of those streets. Mayor Francis Brell pointed out that Council’s funds at that time would not see them undertaking any work involving heavy expenditure. In 1918 while assisting Mr W Brangwin with his milk cart delivery in Queen Street, a boy named Thompson slipped on a step of the cart and fell across the reins tied at the side causing the cart to jerk that caused the animal to rear and sent the boy into a tree growing on the side of the road and spilling the cart and contents. The boy was picked up and conveyed to Nurse Edward’s Private Hospital nearby. The shaft on the cart was broken, but the boy was pronounced OK. The hospital was later turned into a residential property, housing at one time the Field/ Ryan family and the Speed family. In September 1920, the St Marys’ branch of the Red Cross Society surprised Ethel with a farewell party who was leaving the district to marry. They gave recognition of her valuable work on behalf of the Red Cross and other Organisations in the town, and of her sterling personal qualities. The President of the

local branch of the Society performed the presentation referring to her splendid work done as a member of the branch since its inception and presented Ethel on behalf of the members with an inscribed silvermounted oak tray and a silver afternoon tea service. The inscription on the tray was “Presented to Miss E. Edwards from her fellow members of the St Marys’ branch of the Red Cross Society October 1920”. And it was in October that Reverend John Ferguson officiated at the wedding at St Stephen’s Church in Sydney when Nurse Ethel May Edwards, the only daughter of Mrs Edwards of “Braeside,” Queen Street, St. Marys was married to Arthur Wilson Evans (late A.I.F.) son of Mr and Mrs Evans of “Girraween”, Lauderdale Avenue, Manly. Ethel was given away by her brother Mr C Edwards of Kingswood and “looked charming” in a frock of creme crepe-de-chine and georgette trimmed with seed pearls. She wore the customary wreath and veil, the latter being beautifully embroidered and a diamond brooch a present from the bridegroom. She carried a shower bouquet of white carnations. Miss Queeny Edwards, Miss Evans and little Alice Edwards were bridesmaids. Mr Pollard was best man and Keith Evans (late A.I.F ) was groomsman. The mothers of the bride and bridegroom wore black silk with hats to match and carried bouquets. During the ceremony Mr D Evans sang “Because.” The church was exquisitely decorated with flowers and bunting by friends of the couple and a reception was held after the ceremony at the. “Marlborough” with about 40 guests being present. The happy couple subsequently left for Tuggerah Lakes for their honeymoon. The bride’s travelling costume was of navy-blue crepe-de-chine trimmed with jade beads and hat to match. Their residence afterwards being in Manly. A number of St Marys’ residents were present at the wedding as Mrs Evans was most popular throughout the district. Ethel died in June 1949 in Strathfield aged 58 years. The funeral service was at St Andrews Church in Strathfield and the remains cremated at Rookwood Cemetery. Photo of Beryl Field (1945) outside the former hospital in Queen Street courtesy of Rodney Field. (Researched by me in 2018 for the “Queen Street Riches & Textures” project by Penrith City Council). Sources: Nepean Times, WW1 Australian Nursing Service website, Cumberland Argus and Fruit growers Advocate.

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ENTERTAINMENT

hemical disaster training is a vital education tool taught to emergency healthcare workers and Westmead Hospital emergency department staff are ready if ever needed. ED staff along with other first responders took part in the training to simulate patients being exposed to harmful chemicals. “Many patients who are brought to the emergency department due to chemical exposure may be unconscious, or unable to walk and highly contaminated,” Dr Kavita Varshney reflected. “80 per cent of the chemicals are often on their clothes or in the hair, so it is important to remove these items and shower them immediately. “The slightest contact can cause contamination. Our staff must be fully covered in PPE to eliminate their risk of exposure.” Westmead Hospital is Sydney’s mass decontamination facility and the first response hospital for patients exposed to harmful chemicals. Although not often used, staff must keep up to date on the latest procedures and equipment in case disaster ever were to strike. “This training is always important, but even more so this year due to the relocation of the emergency department to the new Central Acute Services Building,” Kavita said. “We have brand new decontamination equipment,

including new showers that we must familiarise ourselves with so we can respond quickly and efficiently in the face of disaster. “From the slightest chemical exposure to a mass contamination, Westmead Hospital is prepared to cover it if such a tragedy ever occurs.” NSW Ambulance, NSW Fire and Rescue, the Children’s Hospital at Westmead and other emergency response teams also took part in the exercise as they familiarised themselves with the equipment and processes of a chemical disaster response. Training included working through the notification processes, setting up the decontamination area and staff and services roles and responsibilities. Staff also went through simulation exercises with pretend patients in

order to practice the necessary skills in real-time scenarios. “Having mannequins to simulate both adult and children ‘patients’ allowed us to run through a wide range

of situations with the involvement of a range of departments. “It was great to see staff from a range of facilities working together and using the PPE and the showers. It instilled a lot of confidence in me that we will be able to respond adequately should we need to.” The decontamination facility at Westmead Hospital was first set up in 1998 to prepare for the 2000 Sydney Olympics. “You never know what could happen but Westmead was prepared then and still is prepared now,” Kavita said. “A special thanks to all who were involved. Without each team doing their part, an adequate chemical disaster response would not be possible.”

‘Exercise Nyos’, Westmead’s annual chemical disaster training run by Emergency Medicine Specialist Dr Kavita Varshney is a critical component in staff education and patient care.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Favoritism (8) 5 Motes (6) 9 Having a higher rank (8) 10 Entices (6) 12 Appropriated (9) 13 Permeate (5) 14 International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (4) 16 Moved down (7) 19 In an unspecified manner (7) 21 A pilgrimage to Mecca (4) 24 Insect stage (5) 25 Structure (9) 27 A clasp for “neckwear” (6) 28 Property of flowing easily (8) 29 Senility (6) 30 The provision of things (8)

solution 16/4/21

down 1 Imbedded (6) 2 They play the bagpipes (6) 3 Latin for “Earth” (5) 4 Frightened (7) 6 Watched a movie before its release (9) 7 South American amphibious rodent (8) 8 Bars temporarily (8) 11 Object of worship (4) 15 Decapitation (9) 17 Marooned (8) 18 Most intelligent (8) 20 Drift (4) 21 Foretells (7) 22 Sight (6) 23 A biochemical catalyst (6) 26 Farewell (5)

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

Chemical disaster simulation prepares Westmead Hospital emergency staff

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

Western News

How to buy property without a 20% deposit

ith Australian house prices at record highs, when you consider that a small flat in Sydney could set you back $600,000 at the moment, saving a 20% deposit to buy that flat – $120,000 – can seem an insurmountable task. However, having little or no deposit doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get a home loan to buy a home. There are low deposit home loan options where you can buy a house with as little as 5% of the purchase price. That means, if you’re buying a home worth $600,000, a lender will expect you to contribute at least $30,000 towards the cost of the purchase price. You will also need to pay for any stamp duty and other upfront costs that may apply, as well as for the cost of lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), which usually applies to loans of more than 80% of a property’s value. If you don’t have the 5% of the value saved, you may some options available. Low deposit home loans may be an option worth considering for some home buyers, but there are potential pitfalls to be aware of and due to the corona virus pandemic, it may be more difficult for some buyers to get a low deposit home loan. Read on to find out what options there might be, and which one may suit you best. Lenders mortgage insurance. Lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) may be an added expense, but it offers buyers the opportunity to dive into the property market earlier, without saving up an entire 20 per cent of the property’s purchase price as a deposit. LMI protects the bank or lender, should a home loan go into default, guaranteeing that the lender will get its money back if the property needs to be sold and there is a shortfall in repaying the loan. While a 20% deposit generally provides a good buffer against any drops in property value over the life of a loan, LMI can also provide the same protection, meaning borrowers can purchase property with a smaller deposit. For the borrower, it may seem LMI it is just another expense to cover. But insurance can mean that some buyers will be able to enter the property market with, for example, only a five per cent deposit saved. In the example above, a $600,000 property, this brings the deposit down from $120,000 to just $30,000. The insurance premium is generally a one-off payment, but you may be able to roll it into the loan amount so that you are paying for it month-bymonth along with your mortgage.

How A Guarantor Can Help. If you don’t have a substantial deposit for a home loan, there are still a number of ways to obtain credit. These are known as family pledges and there are two types available to borrowers: service guarantees and security guarantees. Service guarantees are less common that security guarantees, and they involve a family member guaranteeing all of the repayments on a loan, as well as being named on the property title. A drawback of this approach is that it usually means first home buyers are not entitled to any government grants. Security guarantee is a more popular option. Borrowers who have a limited deposit often use this approach. In this situation, a relative or friend (usually a borrower’s parent or parents) is prepared to use the equity in his or her own home to guarantee the deposit of the borrower. For example, for a total loan amount of $600,000, in a security guarantor situation the borrower/s would take on the debt of 80 per cent of the value of their loan, which would be $480,000, in their own name/s. The loan for the balance, $120,000, is then guaranteed in the names of the guarantor/s and borrower/s, limiting the guarantor’s liability while providing security for the lender, meaning that lender’s mortgage insurance is not necessary. It works well when borrowers don’t have a substantial deposit, but their parents own their own home. It’s a great option as long as the parents are comfortable with their child’s ability to pay back the loan.” First Home Owners Grant (FHOG). To encourage home ownership, State and Territory governments provide first home owner schemes that provide first home buyers with incentives to get onto the property ladder. For instance, in NSW the State government will provide first home buyers who buy a newly built home and land package worth $750,000 or less with $10,000 towards the purchase price, as well as generous stamp duty concessions. In Victoria, first home buyers buying newly built homes valued up to $750,000 are eligible for a $10,000 grant and this increases to $20,000 for new homes built in regional Victoria. Many lenders will be happy to count these government payments towards any deposit. Having a reduced amount of stamp duty to pay means you should also need less money up front. First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme is designed

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to help some first home buyers get a loan with a deposit as low as 5%, without needing to pay for LMI. The government essentially acts as a guarantor and secures the remaining deposit to bring the home buyer up to 20%. The guarantee is limited to 10,000 first home buyers a year and there is an income cap of up to $125,000 per year (or $200,000 per year for couples) for applicants. Which lenders and eligibility who can still offer home loans under the scheme need to be reviewed. A financial gift. The high cost of property today means many parents and other close relatives are happy to help their children enter the property market through a one-off financial gift. Many first home buyers now have help from their parents when it comes to saving for a deposit with more than 30% getting help this way. Many lenders will count the cost of this gift towards your deposit amount, although they may also want to see that you also have a history of regular savings. Using the equity in your own home. Not all buyers looking to buy with no deposit are first home buyers. You may already own your own home and now you’re looking to buy an investment property. In this instance, a lender may give you the option of using the equity in your home to cover the deposit of the place you’re purchasing. To take advantage of this, you’ll usually need to have enough equity in your home to cover a 20% deposit on both places, unless you also take out lenders mortgage insurance. Applying for a loan. When applying for a home loan, it’s always worth remembering that your deposit is only one aspect of your finances that a lender will consider. They will also want to be sure that you have a good chance of being able to service the loan through its term. That means your credit history, credit score, salary, employment details and ongoing income and expenses are just as important as ever, no matter how you secure your loan. Some lenders providing low deposit home loans may charge higher interest rates and fees. The loan application process can be lengthy and difficult with the need for additional finance and credit information. Speak to Alex from Wealthwiz who is an MFAA-accredited finance broker and can help you investigate your options and working out whether to buy now or save extra deposit is a decision that meets your financial needs and options.

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

he 2021 Golf NSW Master P e n n a n t competition swings into action on the 16th May, with all 10 western Sydney clubs involved this season. Twin Creeks CC, Dunheved GC, Stonecutters Ridge GC and Penrith GC will all play in Division 1, Glenmore Heritage Valley GC and Windsor CC in Division 2, Wallacia CC, Leonay GC and Richmond GC in Division 3 and Springwood CC in Division 4. The preliminary rounds will run from 16th May to 20th June, with the semi-finals and relegation matches on the 27th June and the Finals of each Division on 4th July. Several western Sydney clubs will begin the season playing at home in the opening round, including 3 local derbies - Twin Creeks host Dunheved, Glenmore host Windsor and Leonay host Richmond, whilst Penrith are also at home in the first round to Kogarah.

The often daunting layout of Stonecutters Ridge GC will present some imposing challenges to visiting teams in the Master Pennant competition. Photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

The 2020 season was cancelled due to Covid-19, with the 2019 season won by Mona Vale GC, which also captured the Master Pennant title in

2018 and 2013. Stonecutters Ridge was the best performed of the western Sydney clubs in 2019, reaching the ‘Final

8’ before being defeated by grand finalist Wyong GC, whilst Penrith reached the Final 16 before being eliminated.

Major Pennant Playoff dates confirmed Golf NSW has announced the resumption of the playoff series in the 2021 Major Pennant competition, which had been postponed due to Sydney’s recent wild weather and the consequent damage to several courses. The various Finals are now spread across several courses in the Sydney Metropolitan Area, with Dunheved GC (Division 3) and Wallacia CC (Division 5) both playing their matches at Brighton Lakes Recreation and Golf Club on 2nd May. Dunheved meet Muirfield, with the first pairing teeing off at 10am, followed by Wallacia vs Kareela at 11am.

The Relegation Finals have also been rescheduled and will be played as home and away matches, with all matches to be completed by 27th June. Glenmore Heritage Valley GC host Oatlands GC in the first leg, then play away for the second leg in Division 2. Windsor CC will be away to Northbridge GC in the first leg and will host the return leg in Division 4 - all playing dates to be confirmed. In the women’s Relegation Finals, Stonecutters Ridge GC will host The Lakes GC in the first leg, then play away for the second leg in Division One - dates also to be confirmed.

Mapanao impresses at Australian Junior Amateur By Noel Rowsell

16-year old Jeffrey Guan (The Australian GC) has added to his extraordinary playing resume with a come-frombehind win in the 2021 Australian Junior Amateur. Guan trailed early leader Jye Halls (New South Wales GC) by as many as 5 shots during the first two rounds but showed patience and skill to narrow the gap to just one shot at the end of the third round. Guan struck early to take a huge 5-shot lead on the field midway through the fourth and final round, then held off the fast-finishing Aldrich Potgeiter (Joondalup, WA) to win the national championship by one shot. Jeneath Wong (Metropolitan, VIC) was the early lead in the Girls division and would be a post-to-post winner, with runner-up Amelia Whinney (Grange, SA) the closest challenger, 5 shots adrift. Former Stonecutters Ridge GC junior Brielle Mapanao (Quakers Hill) now plays out of The Australian GC and had an excellent tournament, finishing in eleventh spot at +10.

Former Stonecutters Ridge GC junior Brielle Mapanao (Quakers Hill) in action at the 2021 Australian Junior Amateur. Photos courtesy of David Tease, Golf NSW

Western News 30 April 2021 Issue 134

Master Pennant golf set to tee off

Western News Friday, 30 April 2021

SPORT

Youth Week 2021: Students take charge and look to sporting improvements

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School SALSA Peer Leaders and Coordinator.

ainted handball and volleyball courts, water refilling stations and sporting grounds with artificial turf are all ideas students from select western Sydney high schools recently brought to the table. These recreational improvements are part of an action plan coordinated by the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA) program and schools across western Sydney. Overcoming the ongoing challenges of COVID-19 and flooding events, student leaders from SALSA Youth Voices recently gathered together at Rooty Hill High School to deliver their School Action Plans. The SALSA program, led by WSLHD’s Prevention Education Research Unit (PERU) director Associate

Rooty Hill High School Principal Christine Cawsey addresses students.

Professor Smita Shah, aims to motivate students to increase physical activity and improve their diets. Associate Professor Smita Shah said leadership in schools works because students listen to their peers. “The schools will have these sporting improvements in action by the end of this year and early next year,” A/Prof Shah said. “It’s important for students to have a voice as a driving factor for change in their communities.” “I’d like to acknowledge the NSW Australian Medical Association who provided a delicious COVID-19 safe lunch for all at the event.” To recognise the outstanding student contributions, all participating schools were awarded trophies by Professor Mark McLean, director of research at WSLHD.

WSLHD deputy board chair Loretta Di Mento was delighted to see a number of former students and staff return to be SALSA program leaders. “It’s clear that strong community ties are being established by the SALSA program,” Loretta said. Brenda Quayle, principal of Erskine Park High School, emphasised the importance of the day saying, “We are so grateful for our involvement in SALSA Youth Voices, which provides great opportunities for our students to advocate for healthy lifestyle choices.” April 16-24 marked NSW Youth Week – an opportunity for young people to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives, and create and enjoy activities and events.

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