Hundreds to bring furry and feathered friends to pet festival
CAN a pet look like its owner?
That curious question will be answered when hundreds of people bring dressed-up dogs, perky parrots, low-lying lizards and more to Blacktown City Pet Festival on Sunday 29 September.
Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) at 20 Owen Street, Glendenning, will host the festival and people are encouraged to bring their animal offsiders for competitions including: pet most like its owner, best dressed, best trick, shortest pet and tallest pet.
In the main arena, the popular dog agility, dog obedience and sheep herding demonstrations will enthral spectators and offer plenty of education and entertainment.
Other attractions include:
• face painting
• pony rides
• get up close and personal with scaly creatures at the reptile display
• speak to experts and learn about caring for your pet
Free microchipping (a legal requirement for cats and dogs) and veterinary services will be provided for Blacktown City residents’ pets.
The festival promotes the benefits of responsible pet ownership. Entry is free.
Blacktown City Council CEO, Kerry Robinson OAM, said the event was a great opportunity to share the joys of caring for a pet.
“Pets have enriched the lives of many people by giving their owners companionship, responsibility and an appreciation of the animal world,” he said.
Council recently made a major investment in the wellbeing of stray, lost and abandoned animals by opening the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre in 2023.
Community champions celebrated
TALENTED people and organisations that have helped build a thriving cosmopolitan community have been honoured in the 2024 Blacktown City Multicultural Awards.
Winners and finalists were recognised at a presentation at The Colebee at Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside, on Saturday for their efforts ensuring people from different backgrounds contribute meaningfully to society.
The Multicultural Inspirational Person of the Year 2024 award was given to Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency’s Youth Worker Elvis Danso.
Elvis has demonstrated outstanding commitment serving multicultural communities and excelled in empowering disengaged youth.
The Multicultural Volunteer of the Year 2024 award was given to Hanna Shamoka.
Hanna has overcome the challenges of language barriers, isolation and cultural differences since migrating from Iraq in 2013.
She has been a passionate volunteer and made strong contributions to activities including citizenship classes and a range of information sessions.
The Multicultural Organisation of the Year (funded) 2024 award was given to Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency. Communities in Fellowship Together won the award for a non-funded organisation.
Council’s Multicultural Advisory Committee organised the fourth annual awards to celebrate the achievements of the many people who foster Blacktown City’s thriving multiculturalism.
CEO Kerry Robinson OAM
The largest facility of its kind in the southern hemisphere, the centre is a best practice care and education facility. Its team has cared for 1,777 animals in the past 12 months.
Mr Robinson encouraged people to visit and learn how they could help.
“There are many loveable cats and dogs needing good homes at the centre and I encourage people to adopt if they can,” he said.
at multicultural awards
congratulated all involved.
“Blacktown City’s vibrant community life does not happen by itself. People who work and volunteer in multicultural services play important roles in bringing understanding, participation and
togetherness to those from different backgrounds,” he said.
Mr Robinson said Council would continue to celebrate diversity and ensure opportunities for everyone as part of its Multicultural Strategy and Action Plan.
“Council received great feedback on creating priorities for building a multicultural community,” he said.
“We will be working with residents and community organisations to achieve these goals and make sure Blacktown City remains a leader in celebrating diversity.”
Blacktown City is home to more than 435,000 people who represent more than 180 countries.
(L-R) Multicultural Inspirational Person of the Year 2024 Elvis Danso, Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency representatives Lynelle Newman, Daniel Gobena, Aaliyah Filipe and Neha Teli, Multicultural Volunteer of the Year 2024 Hanna Shamoka, Communities in Fellowship Together representatives Shandana Usman, Amna Arslan, Rubab Masood and Sehar Masood.
Multicultural Volunteer of the Year 2024 Hanna Shamoka.
Multicultural Inspirational Person of the Year 2024 Elvis Danso and family.
Blacktown City’s Dennis Johnson Library celebrates 15 Years of community connection
BLACKTOWN City’s library at Stanhope Gardens is marking a significant milestone in August, as Dennis Johnson Library celebrates its 15th anniversary.
Since its opening in 2009, the library has become a significant hub in its local community, offering a wide range of services and programs that continue to attract and engage visitors.
Located in the northeast of Blacktown City, Dennis Johnson Library has quickly established itself as a cherished community resource, second only to the Max Webber Library in terms of book borrowing across Blacktown City.
With 255,849 visitors over the last year, Dennis Johnson Library is clearly popular in its local community.
Joy Bourke, Manager Library Services, reflects on the library’s journey, stating, “Since opening our doors in 2009, Dennis Johnson Library has become a highly valued service in our community. Our dedicated staff and variety of programs have played a crucial role in fostering a love of reading and learning among residents of all ages.”
The library’s most popular services include Storytime and Baby Rhyme Time which have always drawn large crowds and received enthusiastic feedback from families. These
programs provide early literacy opportunities for young children and create a welcoming environment for parents and caregivers.
Other popular programs include senior’s art class, Chess Club and Crafternoons, an after-school program which encourages primary school children to express their creative side using a variety of materials and techniques.
To celebrate the 15th anniversary, Dennis Johnson Library hosted a special morning tea joined by our community.
Blacktown City libraries are also located at Blacktown, Mount Druitt,
Lalor Park, and Riverstone, along with a temporary branch in Marsden Park and a mobile library. Libraries are not only for lovers of reading but we offer multicultural resources, English conversation classes, workshops for the community, information for seniors and a range of clubs for all ages.
Overall, Blacktown City libraries have attracted 833,989 visitors in the last year.
For more information about what’s on offer at the library, please visit libraries.blacktown.nsw.gov.au or follow @blacktowncitylibraries on Facebook and Instagram.
Western NEWS
Editor:
General Manager: Sales: Sales:
Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer:
Letters to the Editor: Web:
Distribution Map
Western News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.
Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644
Bart Bassett 0412 955 745
Bart Bassett 0412 955 745
Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777
Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202
Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893
Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com
From the Editor’s Desk
BY KERRIE DAVIES
AUSTRALIA’S Paralympians are truly extraordinary individuals who have shown immense courage, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. How fabulous to have such a high level of local representation!
The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games commenced on 28th August, with 5 local residents competing for medals. Tim Hodge (Kings Langley) and Chloe Osborn (Gables) will both compete in the Swimming events, Stella Barton (Windsor) in Equestrian, Gordon Allan (Lalor Park) in Cycling and Jasmine Haydon (Wilberforce) in Boccia.
These athletes have not only overcome physical limitations, but they have also conquered the mental and emotional challenges that come with living with a disability.
Whether they were born with a disability or acquired it later in life, each Paralympian has faced their own unique set of obstacles and challenges. But through hard work, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, they are competing at the highest level of their sport.
As spectators, we are in awe of the incredible feats that these athletes are able to achieve. Watching them compete and excel on the world stage is not only inspiring, but it also serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
We can’t wait to support them, especially our local Paralympians from the sidelines. We’ll celebrate their victories, both big and small, as they defy expectations, break down barriers, and inspire us all to never give up on our dreams.
Well done, we are so proud of you all.
Read all about these local athletes in Noel Rowsell’s great coverage inside this issue.
Take home a friend for life at a reduced price – it’s Staffy
DOG lovers have the chance to bring home a friend for life at a reduced price in the Staffy September adoption drive at Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre.
Staffordshire Terriers are available for $100 each throughout September as part of the centre’s aim to find good homes for animals in need.
The adoption fee includes desexing, vaccination, microchipping, flea and worm treatment and lifetime registration.
A range of staffys are available from American to English and cross breeds. All have been cared for and deemed suitable for adoption by the centre’s expert staff.
A popular and playful breed that originated in Staffordshire in Great Britain, these dogs are intelligent, love people and make great pets.
As part of Staffy September, free socialisation classes will be available each Saturday of the month at the centre at 20 Owen St, Glendenning.
Free microchipping is available for Blacktown City residents.
People thinking of adopting are encouraged to visit and discuss their needs with staff in a friendly, easygoing environment.
Photos of staffys and other pets
September
available for adoption can be seen on the Facebook page: www.facebook. com/BARCBlacktown.
The Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) opened in 2023 and is a best practice care and education facility. Its team has cared for 1,777 animals in the past 12 months.
The centre encourages responsible pet ownership.
You’re invited to Rouse Hill Hospital information sessions
LEARN more about the new Rouse Hill Hospital Development at a series of information sessions being held across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) in the coming weeks.
Everyone is welcome to attend to learn about plans for the new hospital, ask the project team questions and provide feedback.
• Thursday 3 September from 10am-2pm at Castle Towers, near Coles
• Sunday 8 September from 10am–4pm at Sydney Boutique Markets, Rouse Hill Town Centre
• Thursday 12 September from 1-3pm at Blacktown Hospital, Hospital Street, near Gloria Jeans
Planning for the development is progressing as part of the NSW Government’s $700 million investment to improve health outcomes for the Hills and the surrounding community. Rouse Hill Hospital is expected to include:
• an emergency department and primary access clinic
• in-patient beds and a day surgery unit
• short stay medical assessment services
• pathology, pharmacy, and medical imaging services
• outpatient and ambulatory care services including paediatrics, renal and women’s health
• a health hub for virtual care and hospital in the home services
• prehabilitation, rehabilitation and lifestyle medicine..
Our new hospital will meet the evolving needs of the community. It will provide patientcentered care integrating hospital services with urgent care, early intervention and prevention strategies along with initiatives to provide care to patients in their own homes.
Alison Derrett, Acting Chief Executive WSLHD
“In parallel with the planning and design of the new Rouse Hill Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District is working towards
building a highly skilled health workforce, and we look forward to providing more information about recruitment opportunities as the project progresses.”
The full scope of services provided by the new hospital will be confirmed following the conclusion of the planning and design process. Feedback from the community, consumers, staff and stakeholders will help to inform this process.
Construction timeframes for the new development will be confirmed as planning progresses and following the
appointment of a building contractor.
The new Rouse Hill Hospital is part of the NSW Government’s $3 billion investment for new and upgraded hospitals and health services across greater western Sydney, one of the largest investments in the region’s health infrastructure in recent years.
Other investments include:
• $540 million to build an Integrated Mental Health Centre at Westmead Hospital
• $120 million investment to expand bed capacity at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
bstreetsmart’s 20 year milestone event
AUSTRALIA’S largest road safety event, bstreetsmart, is marking 20 years of helping educate young road users about the responsibilities and potential risks of getting behind the wheel.
Founded in 2004 by Westmead Hospital
trauma nurses Julie
and
bstreetsmart includes testimonials and real-life simulated crash scenarios, which aim to reduce fatalities and injuries as a result of road accidents.
“It is an amazing accomplishment to have an event
run for 20 years. The dedication and determination of a select group of trauma nurses, doctors, and in particular Dr Ken Harrison, Westmead Staff Specialist, has been crucial to our success,” said Julie Seggie.
Seggie
Stephanie Wilson,
2024 bstreetsmart event on day 1, August 20, at Qudos Bank Arena.
Blacktown Shorts Film Festival Sold-out
FROM the ties that bind families, unfiltered stories of survivors and getting caught in community gossip, the Blacktown Shorts Film Festival has returned for 2024 with a sold-out event at one of Australia’s most iconic venues, the Sydney Opera House.
The Blacktown Shorts Film Festival, hosted by Blacktown Arts and Blacktown City Council, offers local emerging creatives a platform to share their voices, develop their skills, and advance in the western Sydney film industry.
Each year the festival has grown, beginning in 2019 at Blacktown Showgrounds, then to the Skyline Drive-In Blacktown in 2023 and now, in 2024, it has taken over the Sydney Opera House!
The selection of films throughout each year of the festival have represented Blacktown’s diverse and vibrant community by engaging local creatives, providing insights into Blacktown City’s local cultures and filming on locations in Blacktown City.
Through the beautiful cinematography of this year’s lineup, residents might recognise familiar locations such as Nurragingy Reserve at Doonside and Blacktown CBD’s Main Street.
Since its inception, western Sydney writer, producer and actor Vonne
Patiag, has selected and curated the program whilst also supporting the commissioned filmmakers with industry knowledge and insights. On this year’s dynamic line-up of films, he comments: ‘Exploring taboo subjects within closed communities, testing the limits of sisterhood, igniting the fighting spirit of our ambitious youth and honouring Blacktown’s migrant history, we’re excited to have showcased the next generation of talent taking over the Australian filmmaking scene.’
The 2024 commissions were played at the Sydney Opera House alongside 3 films selected by the festival director and a few from the 2023 season.
See the full-line up of films below: Commissioned Program
Humanising by Feras Shaheen
Artist Feras Shaheen sits down with survivors who have escaped immense dangers to share their unfiltered personal and family experiences.
The Whispering Glass by Taofia Tauiliili Pelesasa, Joshua Sanerive and Eliorah Malifa
When Tokelauan-Australian woman Nifo’s mother dies suddenly, Nifo is faced with the task of packing up her Mt Druitt home.
Button Pusher by Miski Omar, Arundati Thandur and Farazbanu Anarwala
Capturing a seemingly normal day in the life of a hairdresser set against
the vibrant backdrop of an African hair salon.
This Town Talks by Abhishek Parasher, Chidiebube Uba and Marco Alexiadis
Monica finds herself at the centre of gossip after a misunderstanding with a nosy neighbour.
A Blacktown Ballad by Herbert Leota and Jonny Taouk
A casual walk through Blacktown streets sees two best friends deliberate and balance the weight of family expectations in the face of a potentially life-changing opportunity.
Curated Program
Tomgirl (2019) by Vonne Patiag
A young Filipino boy in Western Sydney gets an enchanting crashcourse in his homeland culture when
his uncle reveals himself to be a crossdresser in the ‘Bakla’ tradition.
Tony’s Dream (2023) by Augusto Garcia, Daisy Montalvo, and Sebastian Chan
Blending reality and the dream world, this poignant film is about a young Latin-American boy who struggles to fit into his new home in Western Sydney.
In Search of the White Deer (2023) by Esky Escandor and Reg Azwar
A laugh out loud documentary that hunts for evidence of the mythic white deer.
Further Information: https://blacktownarts.com.au/ event/2024-blacktown-shorts-filmfestival/
Expanded multicultural festival dazzles at day and night
AN ecstatic 14,000 people have munched and swayed through an eclectic mix of food, music and cultures from across the world at the expanded Flavours of Blacktown festival.
Spectators at Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside, enjoyed musical acts reflecting Blacktown City’s diverse community across Friday and Saturday, from the K Pop Dancers to First Nations outfit Stiff Gins.
Indian group Shivagarjana Sydney was one of those to march through the festival grounds while playing, delighting onlookers young and old.
At night, brilliant light installations dazzled the crowd. Couples and families enjoyed taking ‘selfies’ with
illuminated entertainers and photos of the technicoloured parkland.
Children packed the cultural workshops and enjoyed craft activities such as Rangoli sand art and decorating boomerangs.
Blacktown City Council provided free entry to Flavours of Blacktown and CEO Kerry Robinson OAM was happy so many people enjoyed the spectacle.
“This is just the second year of the festival and the community has voted with its feet for the expanded two-day program,” he said.
“Blacktown City is the heart of Western Sydney and the Flavours of Blacktown event perfectly encapsulated the rich tapestry of cultural experiences here.”
Flavours of Blacktown is funded by Council and Multicultural NSW.
Film still from The Whispering Glass by Taofia Pelesasa, 2024.
How Minchinbury Got its Name
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
WILLIAM Minchin was born in Tipperary Ireland in 1774. He was the son of George Minchin. He was commissioned an Ensign and Adjutant of the NSW Corps in March 1797. He was sailing from Falmouth in England in June 1797 for Botany Bay to take up his appointment in the female convict transport “Lady Shore”, along with his wife Ann. He was also in command of an attachment of troops that included recruits of French and Irish prisoners of war, deserters and prisoners from the “Savoy”. The mutiny aboard the “Lady Shore” in August 1797 was blamed on William Minchin. Second Officer Simon Murchinson writes “Mr Minchin’s bad conduct and want of discipline, made possible the mutiny because he opened two chests of arms. To my astonishment I saw muskets, bayonets and cartridge boxes served to the French and Irish deserters who were put aboard by the guards and posted as sentinels in different parts of the ship”. William, his wife Ann and 27 others were cast adrift and landed at Port St Pedro (Rio Grande) Brazil two days later. On his return to England he was successful in answering charges concerning the mutiny and sailed for Sydney. He took over as adjutant of the regiment from Neil MacKellar in November 1800 and in 1801 he was connected to a duel between Colonel Paterson and John Macarthur and the year after that he became the prime mover in the accusation that Nicolas Baudin was selling at a great profit the rum he brought as provisions for his voyage home and because of this William and Surgeon John Harris were charged and acquitted of lying, however he suffered a loss of confidence by some of his fellow officers. Because of Minchin’s artillery experience Governor King appointed him engineer and artillery officer in 1804, an appointment which involved training the Loyal Associations in the use of the “great guns” and supervised the construction of Fort Phillip. He was promoted to Lieutenant in March 1805. Another highlight in his career occurred in January 1808 when Major George Johnston ordered the corps that were led by Lieutenant Minchin to march to Government House and arrest Governor William Bligh. This incident inspired William to record the scene for the amusement of his friends and he drew a watercolour of old colonial days when he was in the NSW corps of the deposition of Governor Bligh. This picture about 14 inches by 10 inches depicts a red-coated Corporal dragging Governor Bligh clothed in the blue, white and gold of the King’s Navy from beneath a bed. Standing erect, a red-coated Officer dramatically flourishes a sword and commands Governor Bligh to surrender. The drawing is based on William’s evidence given of Lieutenant-Colonel George Johnston at the court martial in May 1811 on a charge of mutiny. A Corporal in the room said, “we found him there sir, and pointed under
the bedstead”. William was later sent by Johnston to England with dispatches telling his version of the mutiny. Governor Bligh insisted that William was implicated in the plot to depose him. While in England William was called as a witness by Major Johnston to give evidence on his behalf at the court martial, however, Johnston was found guilty and cashiered from the corps. At this time, Provost-Marshal Gore of Sydney now in London was giving evidence for Bligh and began legal proceedings against William for his share in the rebellion against Bligh. William appealed to Lord Liverpool to restrain Gore on the grounds that he had acted under the orders of his superior officer Major Johnston. His plea was successful and he applied for the position of Captain in the Royal African Corps but he was unsuccessful as there was no vacancy, so he accompanied his regiment to Guernsey and to Bermuda where they arrived in September 1811, two days prior to this he had been promoted to Captain. He fought in small skirmishes during the American war in 1812-14 and in September 1813 the regiment moved to Halifax then it was moved to New Brunswick in 1816 where his brother George (who was later a member of its Legislative Council) was living. In August 1817 William retired and sold his commission and in September 1818 he returned to Sydney with his wife and daughter Maria Matilda. His fellow officers Johnston and Paterson had granted land to William and Ann but Governor Macquarie cancelled both these grants, but in 1819 Macquarie did grant William 1,000 acres, part of which was to be the “Minchinbury” estate. Governor Macquarie appointed him principal Superintendent of Police and Treasurer of the Police Fund in April 1820 after D’Arcy Wentworth. He also became a Director of the Bank of NSW and a member of the Bible Society and was also appointed a member of the Male and Female Orphan and Native Institutions. William died after a short illness on 26th March, 1821 aged 45 and is buried at Devonshire Street Cemetery He left his property to his daughter Maria Matilda. His widow Ann married Eber Bunker and died in 1837 aged 61 years and is also buried at the Devonshire Street Cemetery. His daughter Maria Matilda married Henry Howey in 1826. The Howey family were drowned in the loss of the “Sarah” in 1838. Because of this tragedy there was no heir and the property was purchased by Dr Charles McKay in 1859.
Source - Historical Records of NSW, Historical Records of Australia, Court Martial Trial of George Johnston (London 1811), Army letter book 1816 (Legislative Library, New Brunswick), Manuscript catalogue under William Minchin in State Library of NSW, Blacktown City Council Library, Local History section Australian Dictionary of Biography - Volume 2 , 1967, Ancestry.
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
Photo of William’s grave courtesy of Find a Grave website.
ALEX SONCINI
EKey questions home buyers should ask themselves to find their property
VERY home buyer is unique and has different priorities when it comes to finding their dream home. But it can be near impossible to find a property that ticks all your boxes, and it’s also easy to get distracted by a new or renovated home, incredible views, closeness to your favourite place, beach or cafe.
So, how can buyers stay focused on the core elements of a property and neighbourhood that can’t be easily changed but will have an enduring impact on the lifestyle and finances after you move in?
1. What mortgage repayments can I comfortably afford?
Most often everyone wants a more expensive property than their budget allows, regardless of whether they have $600,000 or $6 million to spend.
To avoid budget blow-out, buyers need to determine what their maximum budget is and what their preferred budget is. One needs to review and know what the resources are available to them if they were to lose their job or something else happened that affected their ability to earn an income.
Calculating your borrowing power is an important part of applying for a home loan that can be as simple as using an online borrowing power calculator. Lenders typically determine borrowing power by considering factors such as the size of your deposit, your income and any ongoing financial commitments.
Everybody loves to dream big but try to stay within your capabilities. Knowing the amount of money you have and expect gives you a clearer perspective of the process before you start looking at homes. It’s up to you to figure out what are your goals and prioritise.
2. Do I want a house, a townhouse or an apartment?
Buyers can be adamant about their preference for dwelling-type and with Australia running low on housing, you may have to compromise between dwelling type and other aspects of your life.
Your strategies will depend on your choice: do you want an established home, or do you want to build/renovate one to your taste?
An established home is more likely to have social amenities surrounding it. These are parks, churches, shops, transport, and even neighbours. So, if it is
social entertainment you want, you’ve got it. On the other hand, you can like the environment but not the home, so you need to renovate. Check out the feasibility of renovation before getting knee-deep.
Many buyers have a mix of prerequisites, for example a big block for their kids to play on and want to be within walking distance of a train station. Some buyers want an inner-city apartment to be close to bars and restaurants.
One major item to consider whether the property you’re buying is a short or long-term strategy. Their will be life changing situations as for instance, if you’re a young couple looking at apartments and you don’t want to move once you have children, you’ll need to think beyond the requirements of two working adults and size.
A lot of buyers will find it difficult to fast-forward into the future.
3. How do I spend my free time?
If you spend most of your free time curled up on the couch with a book, that couch can be in a home located almost anywhere. But if you’re a gym junkie, a foodie or a parent of active young kids, you’ll probably be looking for nearby amenities to make your weekends more relaxing.
The trick is to figure out where you spend most of your free time. Is it at the park? The local cafe? The gym or aquatic centre? Exploring bush trails? Playing golf? Visiting art galleries and museums? Will the kids need soccer or netball clubs, karate or dance classes?
Some of us need space for hobbies at home; others make good use of local facilities. Make a list of your must-haves and use it to narrow down your preferred location.
4. Do I need to be close to schools, work or public transport?
A short commute to school or work comes down to two main factors: access to public transport and the distance you live from school and work hubs. Access to public transport tends to be a priority for many buyers no matter if they a owner occupier or investor.
Travelling to work by each day can be very time consuming and no one wants to be in a car for an hour each way. Many want convenience and everything at their doorstep to enjoy living and lifestyle.
If you’ve got school-aged kids, living close to your will limit your options as you review the local school catchment areas and the boundaries for your property search.
5. Do I need to be close to my network of family and friends?
If you’re not hunting for a home close to friends and family as your mum helps with looking after the children, or you look after your elderly parents. There are plenty of reasons we choose to live close to our family and friends.
The more distant and disconnected you are from your family and friends will impact your assessments on where you live from being in a country town to living in the city.
6. Is convenience the key?
Its hard to imaging living without any convenience and the affect on your daily life.
Who does not want to be close to work, school, family, parks, beaches or public transport? We move towards what’s most convenient most often.
In many cases people know what they want and have difficulty prioritising their needs. This can cause stress in deciding the qualities for your lifestyle and change your perceptions of what you want versus what you need.
7. Seek advice
From upfront buying costs to taxes, mortgage applications, interest rates and settlement requirements, there’s a lot of information to review and appreciate before making any big decisions.
Speaking with a mortgage broker can help you understand the buying process, get your finances in order and find the right home loan for your circumstances, contact Alex today on 0419 600 177 or email to alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.
Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional fax or financial advice. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. For information about whether a loan may be suitable for you, call us on 0419 600 177.
PARIS 2024
BY NOEL ROWSELL
The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games commenced on 28th August, with 5 local residents competing for medals.
Tim Hodge (Kings Langley) and Chloe Osborn (Gables) will both compete in the Swimming events, Stella Barton (Windsor) in Equestrian, Gordon Allan (Lalor Park) in Cycling and Jasmine Haydon (Wilberforce) in Boccia.
The Australian team of 170 athletes is comprised of 56% males and 44% females and will compete in 17 of the 22 sports. The team includes 4 Indigenous athletes, including Penrith-born Amanda Reid. Paralympics Australia will transport 61 personal wheelchairs and 38 sport-competition wheelchairs for the team.
TIM HODGE
AT just 14, Timothy Hodge (Kings Langley) achieved selection to his first Australian team, travelling to Glasgow, Scotland, for the 2015 International Paralympic Committee Swimming World Championships. It was a bittersweet moment for Timothy, who only just missed the opportunity to compete against his hero, Matthew Cowdrey, on the world stage – with Matthew retiring earlier that year.
Timothy represented Australia once again at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, but it has been in the years since then that he has truly come into his own. His first major international medals came at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where he clinched silver in the men’s 100m breastroke SB8 and men’s 100m backstroke S9. They were followed with a pair of bronze medals at the 2019 World Para-swimming Championships in London.
It is the silver he won in the breaststroke that shines brightest for Timothy – he set a personal best, far exceeding his own expectations, and shared the podium with his Paralympic teammates Timothy Disken and Blake Cochrane, who won gold and bronze respectively.
Swimming in his second Paralympic Games campaign in Tokyo 2020, Timothy found his spot on the dais for the first time. The 20-year-old claimed his first Paralympic medal in the men’s 100m backstroke S9, swimming a personal best time of 1:02.16. Timothy then secured the silver medal in the 200m individual
medley SM9, touching the wall in 2:15.42 to come in second behind the Russian Paralympic Committee’s (RPC’s) Andrei Kalina.
In the men’s 100m butterfly S9, he missed a spot on the podium, finishing fifth in the final. He captured his third Paralympic medal of the Games as part of the men’s 4x100m medley
relay 34 points. The Australian team, consisting of his fellow teammates Timothy Disken, Will Martin and Ben Popham, finished the race in 4:07.70 behind the RPC.
Tim will compete in the 100 Butterfly, 100m Backstroke, 100m Breastroke, 200m Inividual Medley and 400m Freestyle.
21 Sudden spasm (6)
24 Not right (4)
25 Pile (4)
26 1/16th of an ounce (4)
Photos courtesy of Paralympics Australia
PARIS 2024
BY NOEL ROWSELL
JASMINE HAYDON
JASMINE Haydon (Wilberforce) is the ramp assistant for ParaBoccia player Jamieson Leeson, who was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy when she was 18 months old.
Jamieson has won a handful of medals, including silver at the 2019 Boccia Australia National Titles, and says becoming a Paralympian is about more than the opportunity to represent her country – as incredible as she knows that is. She also hopes to be able to use the platform it creates to inspire others who have hopes and dreams similar to the ones she held not all that long ago.
Jamieson made her Paralympic debut at Tokyo 2020, teaming up with Dan Michel and Spencer Cotie in the mixed pairs BC3 competition.
Jasmine has been working with Jamieson for 12 months.
CHLOE OSBORN
CHLOE Osborn (Gables) has always enjoyed sports, particularly soccer, but when she was 12 years old, a cancer diagnosis put her life as she knew it, on pause.
Chloe was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer in her spine. Surgery to remove Chloe’s tumour resulted in some nerve damage and a spinal injury. Unable to return to any contact or impact sports, her physiotherapist recommended swimming.
She channelled all her efforts into the pool, as her competitive potential rose rapidly.
Chloe has always wanted to achieve the highest level of sport, and whilst that sport changed over the years, her dream to represent her country didn’t.
Chloe currently races as an S7, training five to six times per week, and competes regularly. She previously qualified for the 50m and 100m freestyle events at the Australian Paralympic swimming
STELLA BARTON
STELLA Barton (Windsor) started horse riding at Riding for the Disabled when she was seven years old. At what was meant to be her final lesson, Canadian equestrian para-coach Mary Longden saw her ride an told Stella and her family she should be training for the Paralympics.
Stella was introduced to renowned coach Sally Francis OAM at 14 years old, describing it as a ‘true sliding doors moment’, all thanks to her mother. Francis still coaches Stella today.
In 2022, Stella graduated from university and decided to dedicate the next 18 months working towards selection for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Pride for the green and gold undoubtedly runs in the Barton blood, with Edmond Barton, Australia’s first Prime Minister, Stella’s great, great, great uncle.
For Stella, competing at the Paralympics will be a dream
come true. She believes representing Australia at an international level such as the Paralympics, is the ultimate honour and recognition of excellence in sport,.
When she’s not training and competing Stella enjoys reading, art and is a history buff.
Stella will be competing in the Grand Prix Test and the Individual Grand Prix.
GORDON ALLAN
AFTER watching the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games on TV as a 10-year-old and learning there was an avenue for people with a disability to compete on the world stage, Gordon Allan (Lalor Park) made it his goal to one day become a Paralympian.
trials in Adelaide, where she achieved a personal best in the 100m and a season best in the 50m.
She says she is representing not only her country, but everyone with a disability – spreading awareness and hope for the next generation of Paraathletes.
Chloe will be competing in 100m and 400m Freestyle.
He had started learning to ride a bike like most kids. However, unable to progress from training wheels like his mates, Gordon put the bike aside as he thought he’d never develop the required balance. In fact, he didn’t touch a bike again until the age of 12, when he was at a park with some friends and they dared him to ride down a big grassy hill. Somehow, he says, he stayed upright and, from there, his passion was ignited.
Gordon competed in football, athletics and swimming through primary school and early high school but discovered Para-cycling after attending a Paralympics Australia Talent Search Day in 2011. With the help of Paralympic cycling champion Peter Brooks, Gordon became determined to become a Paralympian himself.
Fast forward seven years, many hours of hard work – and a crash or two later – Gordon broke into the Australian Cycling Team at the age of 19. As the youngest member of the squad, he qualified for the 1km Time Trial at the 2018 Para Track World Championships, where he finished fifth. From there, the determined and hungry track cyclist grabbed
every opportunity, going on to break multiple world records and claim World Championship medals in his quest to become the best athlete he can be.
Making his Paralympic debut at theTokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Gordon finished in a personal best of fifth position in the men’s 1000m time trial C1-2 (C2), crossing the line in 1:10.331. In the mixed 750m team sprint C1-5 event, he teamed with Meg Lemon and Amanda Reid to finish in ninth position.
Outside of cycling, you’ll often find Gordon watching sport, reading about sport or studying for his degree in Sport and Exercise Science.
Gordon will compete in the 1,000m Time Trial and the Road Race.
Photo courtesy of Paralympics Australia
Photo courtesy of Paralympics Australia
Photo courtesy of Paralympics Australia
Photos courtesy of Paralympics Australia
221
Stonecutters Ridge GC to contest Eric Apperly Shield Final
BY NOEL ROWSELL
STONECUTTERS Ridge GC and NSW Silver GC will meet on Sunday at Pennant Hills GC, in the Final of the 2024 Eric Apperly Shield Pennant competition.
Stonecutters (ranked #2) were too strong for Concord Blue (ranked #6), winning 4-2. The winners for Stonecutters were Kade Webber 4/3, Michelle Yang 2/1, Sean Sammons 4/3 and Annoushka Maikap 2/1, whilst Ti Fox (Richmond) won 5/4 and Chayse Thorpe (Richmond) 3/2 were both successful for Concord.
NSW Silver (ranked #1) crushed Concord Red (ranked #5) 4.5-1.5 in the second semi-final, with Blake Hodges (Erskine Park) recording a strong 6/4 win for NSW over his Concord opponent.
The final rounds of the T.L. Warren and W. Gibson Pennant competitions were held on Sunday, with the following results:
T.L. Warren (Home teams listed first): Randwick 2-1 over Fox Hills, Lynwood 3-0 over Barnwell Park, Penrith 2-1 over Cabramatta, Wallacia down 2-1 to Macarthur Grange, Springwood 1.5-1.5 with Camden, Woollahara 3-0 over Stonecutters Ridge, North Turramurra lost 2-1 to Twin Creeks. Brighton Lakes
down 2-1 to Leonay. Leonay and Stonecutters Ridge have won their respective divisions and will move on to the playoffs.
W. Gibson: Randwick 2-1 over Fox Hills, Lynwood 3-0 over Barnwell Park, Penrith 2-1 over Cabramatta, Wallacia down 2-1 to Macarthur Grange, Woollahara 3-0 over Stonecutters Ridge, North Turramurra lost 2-1 to Twin Creeks, Macarthur Grange 2-1 over Leonay.
Penrith GC hosted Round 6 in Division 3 of the 2024 Super Senior Pennant competition, with Antill
Park finishing 4-4 with Springwood and Camden defeating Campbelltown 4.5-3.5.
Division 4 was played at Cumberland CC, with Richmond defeating Cabramatta 4.5-3.5 and Stonecutters Ridge defeating Liverpool 5-3.
With one round left to play in the regular season, Castle Hill and Cumberland will finish at the top of Division 3, whilst Camden, Antill Park and Campbelltown are still in contention for the top two spots in Division 4.
Innovation Roof Restoration
Matthew Fullerton (Richmond). Runnerup in JNJG South Coast Junior Masters
Photo courtesy of Annika Boyd / JNJG
Stonecutters Ridge Eric Apperly Shield squad.
Blacktown City Chasing its 10th NSW Championship
BY BOB TURNER
BLACKTOWN City FC is peaking at the right time of the year as Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, welcomes back a full and healthy squad for the Finals. Two weeks ago, Blacktown knocked off second place Marconi, the hottest team in the competition winning their last eight games in succession. It was a valiant effort from Blacktown with goals to Ben Barry and Danny Choi in a 2-1 win that guaranteed a home playoff game and third spot on the ladder.
Last Sunday Blacktown demolished their cross-town rivals Hills United, 4-0. Hills were in a must win situation to try and avoid relegation to the second division but twenty minutes into the game the writing was on the wall as Blacktown dominated the play for a quick 2-0 lead. Playing with a full squad for one of the first times this season, Coach Crittenden used his full squad in preparation for the NSW Championship drive commencing on Wednesday, the 28th, hosting St George City.
The win over Hills United relegates the club to second division next season. In good news for the city of Blacktown, Mt Druitt Town Rangers won the second division and will be elevated to the NPL 1 Premiership in 2025.
The win over Hills concludes the 30 round regular season competition with the Premiership going to Rockdale. Marconi finished second with Apia and Blacktown City tied for third. St George City and Sydney United make up the top six.
2024 NPL Men’s NSW Championship Series Format
WEDNESDAY 28TH AUGUST
Elimination Semi Final 1
Wednesday, August 28th - Apia Leichardt VS Sydney United Elimination Semi Final 2
Wednesday, August 28th, Blacktown City FC VS St George City – Landen Stadium, 7:30pm
SUNDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER
Preliminary Final 1
Rockdale Ilinden v Lowest Ranked Winner from Round 1
Preliminary Final 2
Marconi Stallions v Highest Ranked Winner from Round 1
GRAND FINAL
– COMM BANK STADIUM
SATURDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER
Winner PF1 v Winner PF 2
The Grand Final will be played on Saturday, September 7th at Comm Bank Stadium. Blacktown City are striving to duplicate their performance two years ago at the same venue when they downed Manly 2-0 for their 9th NSW Championship in the last 30 years.
Blacktown City hosted St George City on Wednesday, the 28th, at Landen Stadium in an elimination semi-final. A win would see Blacktown continue their Championship push on Sunday, September 1, as they take on the Minor Premiers, Rockdale, on the road. Blacktown and Rockdale always provide a great contest and with a Grand Final berth on the line, the game would be an intense one.
Go Blacktown City!
Travis Major after a goal. Photo Speed Media.
Tristan Prendergast in goal. Photo: Not24Get
2022 Championship
Action Vs Adelaide. Photo Speed Media.
SMSP Comes Alive for CMC Shannon’s Sydney Classic
BY NOEL ROWSELL
SYDNEY Motorsport Park (SMSP) hosted over 1,800 Veteran & Classic vehicles, from over 150 clubs, on Sunday 25th August, to the delight of over 4,000 spectators.
Overcast weather threatened to dampen the event but the rains held off as cars, motorbikes, scooters, military vehicles, police vehicles, ambulances and fire engines were put on display and driven on parade around the Brabham Circuit.
Double-decker bus rides around the track (gold coin donation for the Bus Museum) were also on offer, enchanting the children in particular with a trip back in time.
Approximately 60 trade displays and merchandise were on offer in the Pit Garages throughout the day, with entertainment for
the kids including face painting, balloon sculptures, and a Slot Car Racetrack and Rocker Cover Racers.
Hawkesbury Race Club announces the recipients of the Equimillion Sponsorship
BY NOEL ROWSELL
HAWKESBURY Race Club (HRC) is excited to announce the two sponsorship recipients to the Racing NSW and Equestrian Australia 2024 Equimillion competition, exclusively for retired NSW Thoroughbred racehorses.
HRC is committed to providing sponsorship to two recipients, to the value of $1,100 per rider, to cover the cost of their nomination ($600+GST) and their competition fee ($400+GST).
HRC was delighted with the quality of the applications received, all of which were of exceptionally high quality. It’s clear that there is strong support for Off The Track thoroughbreds in the Hawkesbury region.
We are pleased to announce that the two lucky recipients of the HRC Equimillion sponsorships are Poppie Gorton and Brooke Somers.
Poppie is a pre-apprentice jockey for Brad Widdup and was successful in the Junior Eventing division at the 2023 Equimillion competition.
She will compete again this year as a Junior in the Eventing discipline.
Brooke was also successful in last year’s competition, winning the 95 Division. Brooke is a Hawkesbury local and currently rides trackwork for Blake Ryan. She will compete as an Amateur in the Eventing discipline.
The team at Hawkesbury Race Club wish Poppie and Brooke all the best on their journey to the 2024 Equimillion Equestrian competition.
Les Howard presented PNSW Distinguished Long Service Award
BY NOEL ROWSELL
LES Howard from Windsor Paddlesports Club Inc (WPC) is the recipient of a 2023/24 Paddle NSW Distinguished Long Service Award for his work and contributions at WPC and for the wider paddling community.
Les has been a member of WPC for 27 years and has always been very active with running the training sessions.
His list of achievements include PaddleNSW 100% Participation Trophy, PNSW 2019 Div 8 3rd place. Club Championship 2018 2nd place, PNSW 2018 Div 8 1st place, Club Championship 2019 3rd place, PNSW 2017 Marathon Series Div 8 2nd place, Club Championship 2017 overall 3rd place, Voted club man and President award, Hawkesbury Canoe Classic participation and finishing on 5 occasions.
Les has earned the nickname, Energiser Bunny, a term for anything that continues endlessly, or someone that has immense stamina. He is a humble member of the club but is always there to help, and has for years run the training sessions on the water.
He is always available to share his knowledge on how to prepare for a race, whether it’s a sprint day, a 20k marathon, to the big one, the 111 km Hawkesbury Classic, including help with meal training and what to take in your boat for nutrients.
Les Howard - photo supplied by PNSW