Westernnews 30march2018

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Friday, 30 March 2018 ISSUE 56 0403 537 333 Your 12-page Blacktown City Show 2018 liftout and program inside this issue!

ON WITH THE SHOW!

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

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Western News

Seeking the Corporate Citizen of the Year

B

lacktown City Council is seeking nominations for the 2018 Blacktown City Corporate Citizen of the Year.

“The award recognises an individual with a business in Blacktown City who has made an outstanding contribution to the community or achieved great success in their business and/or industry, Blacktown City Mayor, Stephen Bali MP said.

“It is designed to recognise individuals who have not only done well in business but have clearly demonstrated a social responsibility and community involvement in Blacktown City.”

Blacktown City Council reinstituted the Corporate Citizen of the Year in 2016 and, since then, awards have been presented to: John Velcich, the founder of Red Lea Chickens (2016), and builder, developer, and entrepreneur Bill McNamara OAM (2017).

“I am pleased we resumed this important acknowledgement of the corporate sector and I’m looking forward to seeing the many worthy nominations for the award this year,” Mayor Bali said.

2016 Blacktown Corporate Citizen of the Year, John Velcich, founded Red Lea Chickens on a family farm on Flushcombe Road, Prospect in 1957.

Red Lea Chickens is now one of Australia’s largest chicken processing companies, and is still located on its original site.

John is also known as a philanthropist and has supported many local and national charities.

Builder, developer, entrepreneur and philanthropist Bill McNamara was named 2017 Blacktown Corporate Citizen of the year.

The McNamara Group has delivered many of the large scale

John Velcich receives his award from Blacktown City Mayor, Stephen Bali MP.

developments that have shaped both Blacktown and Western Sydney over the past 50 years.

His developments include the WestPoint Shopping Mall at Blacktown and Marketown Mall at Riverstone, numerous high schools (including Dundas, Mt. Druitt, Glenfield, Macquarie Fields, and Fairfield). Other landmark buildings include the McNamara Centre, the Octagon, the United Permanent Building, the Parramatta Cultural Centre, the J.A. Fleming Stand at Rosehill and the Riverside Theatres.

He has given back to the community, having served on numerous community boards including Chairing the Economic Development

Board of Greater Western Sydney for four years and serving as a board member of the Blacktown Venue Management, which manages Blacktown International Sports Park.

He was also was the driving force in engaging small business involvement in the lead up to the Sydney Olympic Games.

This year’s Blacktown Corporate Citizen of the Year will be announced at a special function in Blacktown City Council’s Nirimba Room on Tuesday 29 May. To nominate yourself or another a member of our business community, complete the form on Council’s website: http://www.blacktown.nsw. gov.au/Corporate-Citizen-of-the-Year

Previous winners

Blacktown City Mayor, Stephen Bali MP and 2017 Corporate Citizen of the Year, Bill McNamara OAM.

John Velcich John Velcich’s story is the classic Australian success story, of a migrant coming to the country with not more than a suitcase and then developing an extraordinarily successful enterprise.

What started as a one family company on a small farm at the end of Flushcombe Road Prospect is now a multi-million dollar company.”

Born in Croatia and arriving in Australia in 1953 as a 16 year old, the family settled on what was then a farm, growing tomatoes.

Red Lea chickens started as Red Leaf chickens in 1957 on that same farm in Flushcombe Road, Prospect as a family business; with John rearing and processing some 300 chickens per week.

Today, Red Lea Chickens employs around 500 staff, processes some 500,000 chickens each week, operates nine breeding and rearing farms across NSW, runs a fleet of 50 trucks and has 38 retail outlets – the first of which was in Alpha Street, Blacktown.

Nominations can be emailed to nathan.burbridge@blacktown.nsw. gov.au or sent via post to PO Box 63, Blacktown 2148.

All nominations must be submitted by close of business, Friday, 4 May 2018.

All enquiries about nominations should be directed to Nathan Burbridge, from Council’s Economic Development Unit, on (02) 9839 6233.

Bill McNamara OAM From humble beginnings as an apprentice carpenter at Riverstone Meatworks and commuting to Granville Tech in the late 1940s, Bill McNamara has built a business empire that has contributed hugely to the betterment of Western Sydney.

Mr McNamara’s buildings include Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres, Blacktown’s WestPoint Shopping mall, the JA Fleming stand at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse and Parramatta Cultural Centre.

He also owns and operates the Del Rio Riverside Resort at Wiseman’s Ferry and has guided the development of Western Sydney, having served on numerous community and government consultancy boards.

One of the original inductees into the Blacktown Hall of Fame, in the early 1970s he created the biggest single development in Blacktown: Westpoint Shopping Centre.

Now about to turn 91, he has served on numerous community boards and - until recently - was on the board of Blacktown Venue Management, which manages Blacktown International Sports Park.

Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1984, he was also was the driving force in engaging small business involvement in the lead up to the Sydney Olympic Games.

Western News

local news

By Keegan Thomson

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LACKTOWN MP and Mayor of the city, Councillor Stephen Bali has been kicking up a stink after Blacktown was formally left out of the Western Sydney City Deal (WSCD) despite the Turnbull government saying the riches will be shared across the region.

The WSCD was signed into fruition by the federal and state governments with eight other councils from western Sydney and Cr Bali is fuming about it.

In a statement on his facebook page, Cr Bali wrote that Blacktown is no longer seen as a part of western Sydney, yet parts of south-western Sydney have been included in the WSCD. “Ever been to Bargo? It’s a lovely place with about 4,400 residents 100 kms south of Sydney. Well, according to the state and federal governments, it’s part of Western Sydney and Blacktown is not,” Cr Bali wrote.

The reason why Blacktown has been left out of the WSCD is because of a boarder drawn up by the Greater Sydney Commission which says Blacktown is now a part of Sydney Central City along with Parramatta.

Cr Stephen Bali, Mayor and MP for Blacktown. Photo: Facebook

The rest of the western Sydney councils are considered a part of the Western Parkland City.

“The WSCD has been in negotiations behind closed doors for approximately two years involving eight outer western Sydney councils that will capture about half of the projected growth anticipated in our region,” Cr Bali wrote.

“This means our City won’t get access to the liveability fund and the ability to negotiate for the proposed rail line extended from St Marys through northern Mt Druitt, Marsden

Park, and to the new north-west metro,” he said in another post.

Despite the calls from Cr Bali, a spokesperson for the Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure and Cities said there is more than enough room for Blacktown to join the discussion table on the WSCD. “While it is important the City Deal has a defined geographic area, the Deal will generate benefits which will be shared across the broader western Sydney region – including for Blacktown,” the spokesperson said.

“In recognition of the enduring

links between Blacktown and the Western Parkland City, Blacktown has been invited to be part of the planning partnership being established under the City Deal.

“The Planning Partnership will be a formal arrangement between the NSW government and the growth councils of western Sydney to better align and coordinate land use and infrastructure planning,” they said.

Blacktown will be one of the closest urban hubs from the airport, sitting just 26 kms from the proposed site, and the government says the city will receive major economic boosts from the airport, the WSCD and the proposed north south rail link.

“There is certainly an intention as we implement the City Deal to leverage its positive impacts for Blacktown. Hence we have announced that Blacktown City Council will be invited to be part of the planning partnership being established under the City Deal,” the spokesperson said.

“Additionally, the rail business case which is now to be developed will include investigation of integrated transport and delivery options for a full north south rail link from Schofields - in the Blacktown Local Government Area - to Macarthur.”

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Mayoral MP critical of Western City Deal

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

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Western News From the Sports Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Keegan Thomson 0421 382 560 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Kennedi Geyer 0452 455 844 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

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.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

Columnist’s desk

By MARK GEYER

A sad day in Aussie Cricket

Vineyard Riverstone Rouse hill Marsden Park Kellyville Ridge

Schofields Shanes Park Colebee

Ropes Crossing

Quakers Hill

Hassall Grove

St Marys

Dean Park Glendenning

Emerton

Plumpton

Stanhope Gardens Parklea

Kings Park Marayong

Woodcroft

Kings Langley Lalor Park

Mt Druitt Rooty Hill Minchinbury

Blacktown

Seven Hills

Arndell Park Toongabbie

Eastern Creek

Prospect

R

egular readers of my column would know that I usually chat about what’s happening in the land of Rugby League with an obvious slant on my home team, the Penrith Panthers.

But this week there is an obvious story to talk about that even the hardened league fans, given our game’s indiscretions, are shaking their collective heads at.

It is of course the Australian cricket team’s ball tampering fiasco.

Most woke on Sunday morning thinking it was already April 1. But it took no fool to know that what we were reading and hearing was about to shake the Aussie cricket landscape down to its foundations.

By now we all know the scenario, Steve Smith and others (what about the coach) decided they’d break the rules and cheat in their test match against South Africa by taking a foreign object (believed to be sandpaper) onto the field and have a rookie in Cameron Bancroft give the ball a bit of ‘work’ to perhaps create the ball to swing. Dumb.

What there’s no tv cameras filming this game? You haven’t already got the world’s best bowling lineup?

It goes against every morale fibre in cricket that one would stoop so low as to cheat.

But we weren’t the first and will more than likely not be the last, but for crying out loud can we all have our say on what we saw and get on with life?

The overwhelming rhetoric from all across the globe, (even Malcolm Turnbull has had his say - stick to your plummeting opinion poles PM) has been tsunami-like.

Yes it was disgraceful, yes it was against the spirit of the game, and yes those perpetrators will be punished.

I actually think that the overwhelming backlash against our team from their fellow Aussies says more about the public disconnect we now have with the current Aussie cricket team.

Where once the larrikin was held on a pedestal that same larrikin now earns millions of dollars in many and varied leagues around the world and the common folk simply can’t relate. It’s the only rationale I can come up with whilst observing the on-going myriad of disconcertion thrown the Aussies way.

Where to now?

Well as of time of writing, the Australian Cricket Board hasn’t yet handed down their punishment but you bet it will be harsh, and so be it.

There is no room in any sport to have to resort to cheating, whether it’s in the form of ball-tampering or using performance-enhancing drugs to compete.

All actions have consequence, let’s just hope that those involved in this latest scandal learn from what they’ve done and start their road to redemption as swiftly as they possibly can.

Your thoughts? nepeannews@aol.com

Western News

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› Do more at Blacktown Seniors’ Festival

years of judging of recent memory.

President of the Show Society and Showgirl coordinator Wilma Drower said she would like to congratulate all the girls.

She has invited the public to meet the girls on the Westpoint stage where they will be introduced to the public on Thursday April 5, at 6:30. There will be entertainment including tribal drumming shows, an African drumming group from Blacktown High and performances from the always entertaining and very popular Natasha’s Arts Theatre.

The winner will be announced at 2.45pm on Saturday April 7, 2018 after the official opening. Whomever is announced as the winner will be an ambassador for Blacktown Show Society and Blacktown City and will represent the Society at the zone competition and if she’s successful she’ll continue to the Royal in 2019.

The annual New South Wales Seniors’ Festival (4 – 15 April) is a great opportunity for the Blacktown City community to acknowledge the contribution that senior citizens make to our community.

Blacktown City Mayor, Stephen Bali MP said the theme for 2018’s Seniors’ Festival, So Let’s Do More Together, is a reminder to share your time with friends, family and others.

Whether it be getting active in an Aqua Aerobics class, joining a knitting group, taking part in a story telling session, becoming tech savvy or learning new cooking skills, there is something to suit all tastes.

“The theme focuses on the importance of allowing time in your life for new experiences and those experiences are often most enjoyable when you spend it with the people around you.

“Approximately 68,469 people are aged over 55 in Blacktown City and this number is expected to grow to 114,046 in 2036,” Mayor Bali said.

“The older residents of Blacktown City are a valuable part of our community and this Festival is an opportunity to recognise all they’ve done for Blacktown City.”

Blacktown City Council will celebrate active, healthy and independent ageing as part of Seniors Festival and the program will be jam packed with free activities designed especially for seniors.

“I am proud of the range of activities Blacktown City hosts during the Festival which almost all are free” Mayor Bali said.

“With so many activities on offer it will be an excuse for families and friends to come together, build friendship and support each other.”

To access a Blacktown City Seniors Festival Program, contact Council on 9839 6000 or download a program by visiting Council’s website www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au

By Keegan Thomson

C

ONGRATULATIONS have to be made to the six finalists of this year’s Blacktown City Showgirl Quest sponsored by The Workers Club and Westpoint.

The lucky women who made it as finalists are Nicole Watts, Laurice Gravador, Deseree Autor, Chantelle Torres Kimberlee Street and Broni Sams.

The two judges were Chief Inspector Robert Fitzgerald of Blacktown Police Command, who was awarded Blacktown Citizen of the year in 2016, and Dana Velasco who was our Blacktown Showgirl in 2014 and 2015 and went on to represent Blacktown City at the Royal in 2016 where she came second runner up from 500 entrants in the state.

Both judges said this year was one of the hardest

Back to St Bartholomew’s Day I

By Keegan Thomson

t is on again, bigger than ever. The annual celebration of St Bartholomew’s Church in Blacktown will celebrate the 177th anniversary of the opening of the church in 1841.

Hosted by the Friends of St Bartholomew’s, supported by Blacktown City Council, the special anniversary event will be held on April 14, exactly 177 years to the day of the opening of the church.

A guest speaking presentation at the special event will be Kerima-Gae Topp, who will deliver a presentation on the notorious female factories, homes to windows and spinsters, that cropped up around colonial New South Wales during the 1800s.

To top off the festivities there will be a town crier, the New South

Wales Corps of Marines will give drill demonstrations and to add some musical and colourful flair there will be wandering minstrels.

Throughout the day there will be historical displays on the church and cemetery history of St Bartholomew’s as well as a searchable cemetery records available for family history research.

There will be self guided cemetery tours as well as demonstrations on the conservation work being done on the graves.

Entry is $6 per person and anyone under 12 is free. Make sure you check out this vital piece of western Sydney’s historic heritage . St Bartholomew’s Church at Ponds Road, Prospect on April 14, 9am to 3pm.

A free shuttle bus will run between St Bartholomew’s and the council carpark on Flushcombe Road.

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Showgirl finalists announced

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GWS gets some educated support

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passionate TAFE NSW teacher is about to realise a footballer’s dream by taking to the field with the Greater Western Sydney Giants AFL team.

TAFE NSW Nepean Health Recreation and Fitness Teacher Michael Viera has started his first season with the Giants as a sports trainer and massage therapist.

With a strong background in the fitness industry and extensive experience as a personal and sports trainer, Mr Viera was recommended for the position through Sports Medicine Australia.

“When the opportunity to work as a sports trainer and massage therapist with the Giants came up, I jumped at the chance.

Working with elite athletes has always been a dream of mine and I’m thrilled to be part of the team,” Mr Viera said.

“I started working with the team last November, it’s a fantastic opportunity with a very well structured and professional outfit. The season kicks off in a few weeks which is very exciting.”

A career in the fitness industry wasn’t always on the cards for Mr Viera, he didn’t gain high enough marks to get into university, and had considered pursuing a trade instead. However, as he was constantly active growing up, and with a keen interest in sports and coaching, he sought other avenues for a career which lead him to TAFE NSW. Mr Viera studied the Certificate II in Fitness and Certificate IV in Personal Training, and broadened his skills and knowledge with additional courses in sport and remedial massage. During his time as a TAFE NSW Nepean student, his teacher Robin

“Giving back to the industry is something I enjoy doing. I want to shape better trainers and help them achieve their career goals. Being able to share my knowledge and expertise is extremely rewarding,” Mr Viera said.

Studying at TAFE NSW has given Mr Viera the opportunity to pursue a career he loves, start his own business and opened up doors enabling him to work with professional teams and clubs.

“I tell my students that they can’t beat the hands-on practical experience at TAFE NSW. The way we teach our students is one of the reasons we’re the biggest and best training provider in Australia,” he said.

According to a Fitness Australia report, fitness activities are the second most participated type of sport and recreation by Australians and is an industry worth over $30 million For students considering a career in the health and fitness industry, Mr Viera encourages students to be multi-skilled and to always look at upskilling as it will help you differentiate yourself from others.

When it comes to his long term career goals, Mr Viera says he is aiming for another sort of footy goals.

“I grew up with soccer, it’s my passion sport, and my ultimate goal would be to one day have the chance to work with the Socceroos or Matildas.

Working with elite athletes in any sport is really the pinnacle of my industry,” he said.

Ellis encouraged him to come back and teach the next generation.

Taking Ms Ellis’ advice, Mr Viera now teaches fitness to the TVET students in years 10, 11 and 12 which gives them workplace skills and experience whilst studying industry related courses in a variety of vocational areas. The courses are included as part of the HSC pattern of study and delivered at TAFE NSW campuses and online.

Not one for slowing down, Mr Viera teaches two days a week, while managing his own practice ‘Complete Body Dynamics’ and his role with the Giants.

Pet of the week

WEEK: 15/3/18 NAME: “Harley” IMPOUND Number 652 BREED: Domestic AGE: 2 years SEX: Male REGISTERED: Yes MICROCHIPPED: Yes Desexed: Yes AREA IT CAME FROM: Blacktown council area HISTORY: No microchip, previous owner no longer wanted TYPES OF FOOD IT SHOULD EAT: Canned food or tinned tuna, Dry biscuits, Treats BASIC CARE NEEDS: Lots of love and affection, Toys Scratching pole CHARACTER TRAITS: Extremely affectionate, Craves lots of TLC SUITABLE HOME/ LIFESTYLE: Family or Individuals.

Sale: $49

Any specific food the cat enjoys?

Chicken and tuna in a can.

Three words that specifically describe this cat’s personality: Excitable, lovable, playful.

Colour, size, length of hair: Harley is medium-sized with a short length of hair.

A sentence that uniquely describes why this cat is so great, and what separates it from other cats in the facility? Harley is cute, friendly and he is a nice cat. He is affectionate and would suit most homes.

Any specific habits it has (e.g. scratching ear, sleeping, meowing?) Harley is a relaxed cat that is friendly. His personality will shine through when he has a new home.

WEEK: 14/3/18 NAME: “Bella” IMPOUND NUMBER: 754 BREED: am-staff x kelpie AGE: 2 years SEX: Female VACCINATED: Yes DESEXED: Yes AREA IT CAME FROM: Blacktown Council area HISTORY: Previous owner no longer wanted the dog.

TYPES OF FOOD IT SHOULD EAT: Raw, meaty chicken Dry kibble Treats BASIC CARE NEEDS: Lots of love and affection CHARACTER TRAITS: Excitable, Happy, Friendly, personality will shine when re-homed SUITABLE HOME/ LIFESTYLE: Most families Sale $99

Any specific food the dog enjoys?

Juicy chicken bones and premium dog food.

Three words that specifically describe this dog’s personality: Caring, playful, energetic.

Colour, size, length of hair: Bella is black and white, medium-sized with a short length of hair.

A sentence that uniquely describes why this dog is so great, and what separates it from other dogs in the facility?

Bella is a friendly and happy dog that loves people. This dog is friendly and loves pats.

Any specific habits it has (e.g scratching ear, sleeping, barking)?

Bella is a happy and friendly dog that enjoys the company of people. Her personality will shine when she settles into a new home.

Blacktown Animal Holding Facility

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PHONE 9839 6161

Blacktown City Show

Blacktown ShowgrounD richmond road, blacktown

Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th April 2018

IT’S SHOWTIME! This year’s Blacktown City Show is here again BIGGER – BETTER - BRIGHTER with lots of fun for the whole family. Don’t miss one of Blacktown’s major attractions and help us celebrate the shows 95th Anniversary.

For all the attractions, we have your 12 page lift out right here, complete with the programme. Western News is very proud to be associated with this major community event.

DON’T MISS THE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR! Saturday 9pm Proudly sponsored by the The Blacktown City Council

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Blacktown City Show

The Voice of the Show – Carol Heuchan The Carol Heuchan is a lady of many hats.

She has been a professional horsewoman for most of her life, training riders and show horses and competing successfully in thirty-four Royal Easter Shows. She is also a highly qualified National Judge and has judged internationally.

In 2003, her first book was published and led her to the world of Bush Poetry which she took by storm, amassing a swag of awards. Twice Australian Champion and nine times Laureate award winner, five books and five CD’s (all award winning), she is also the winner of the richest prize in poetry history – a thirtyfour thousand dollar tractor!

Carol has been on the winning team in the World Poetry Debate and has been part of numerous Australia-wide radio programs and featured in the ABC television series “Bush Slam”, shown many times on national prime time television.

She has just completed her eleventh International performance tour of the U.S. and has another awaiting confirmation.

Carol also has numerous bookings for some of the biggest events in the Southern Hemisphere for 2018.

Needless to say, Carol Heuchan is in great demand as an entertainer, compere, writer, guest speaker, judge of horses and poetry, and horse events commentator (anything to get out of housework, she says!)

Wood Chips Fly Sponsored

by Blacktown RSL

You may have heard her voice at the Royal Easter Show where she was the very popular Main Arena Commentator for six years. Carol has had a long association with Agricultural Shows. Combining this connection and passion with her talent at the microphone, ensures Blacktown Show will be worth listening to!

One of Australia’s oldest professions, and one of Blacktown City’s favourite sports in earlier times, is again one of the attractions at this year’s Blacktown City Show.

In the early days no-one thought of woodchopping as a sport, just another novelty show attraction.

Brawny, hard-drinking axemen took part in informal contests, but there were no rules as such.

Gradually rules did evolve and by the beginning of the century, woodchopping became established as an important event at any big show in Australia and New Zealand.

The advent of the chainsaw ended the era of the axemen in the forests but the sport lives on and is still thriving in Australia.

Sponsors of the Stage Entertainment on Saturday Night

Blacktown City Show

Dr. Alex Sandor Kolozsy CDVA Resident Sculpture, Blacktown Show Society, International Gold Medal Winner, 1981 Cleveland Ohio USA, Bicentennial Medal 1988, Sydney Australia.

Cultural Doctorate in Visual Art, Sculpturing, Benson Univ. Arizona, USA. His works are on display in Buckingham Palace, London, The White House collection in Washington DC and USW Hungarian National Gallery Budapest.

Some of his works include, The Little Master 1987, Kokoda 1992, The Gladiators 1993 and Johnny O’Keefe – The Wild One 2004.

Inspect his work at the Show between 10am–4pm both Saturday and Sunday.

Levi Pendlebury The Village Blacksmith

The understanding of metal is as important part of our history as farming or agricultural. I’ve believed this since I was 13 when I first saw a blacksmith.

Now at 32, it gives me great pleasure to share some of my

knowledge and metalworks to the public.

Learn about the first tools, and how the industrial revolution began, and be lucky enough to take some - thing home made by Levi, the village blacksmith.

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Dr. Alex Sandor Kolozsy - Sculptor

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Blacktown City Show

Ras’s working & high jumping dogs

Ras’s working & high jumping dogs will be at this year’s show with demonstrations of not only man’s best friend’s amazing ability to handle and muster stock but also you can bring your own pooch along for the high jumping contest.

Kylie & Darren Adams, both successful competitors in cattle dog trialing, will have their dogs on hand and explain some of their training techniques and how & why working dogs are used on farms around Australia every day.

The dogs used are known as New Zealand short haired collies (think Footrot flats) and bred solely for

their knack to control all kinds of livestock, from sheep & goats to cattle & the ducks that will be used today.

The light hearted yet informative demonstration starts with basic breaking-in methods through to actually working a flock of ducks within meters of the crowd with two dogs working as one to manoeuvre the ducks under the control of their master. At the end of each show Darren & Kylie will bring the dogs out into the crowd so as the young & old alike can get up close and have a pat with these amazing hounds.

Not only will you see working

displays but also a high jumping competition in which you can enter your own dog to try and scale the wall and be declared champion.

The contest is open to all dogs and they must clear a wall that increases in height with each successful attempt.

Ras’s dogs have been named champion high jumping dog at the Sydney Royal Easter Show three times and have jumped over 2.5m high.

As well as the collie’s jumping we will also have some little mini foxie’s jumping incredible heights that are sure to be a crowd favourite.

Once again you are more than welcome to come up and say Gday for a ‘Pat & Chat’ after the show.

Blacktown City Show

A popular spot at the Blacktown City Show with the young at heart is the Animal Farm Nursery.

We would like to welcome Rhonda Hall, the principal of All Animals – Animal Farm Nursery, who is again organising this year’s display.

Rhonda will have many new animals at the Show as well as the old favourites.

With over 20 years experience, Rhonda said her main aim is to let

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Animal Farmyard Nursery Fun

children relate to animals in the most positive way.

It also gives children a chance to groom, feed and care for a great variety of animals, teaching them respect for all creatures and minimises the chance of accidents, Rhonda said.

Finally we try to leave them with wonderful memories that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Be sure to visit All Animals Animal Farm Nursery at this year’s Show.

Antique Machinery Sydney Antique Machinery Club is back again this year. They will be easy to find by the sound of old engines running like they did when Grandpa was a boy.

Come and have a look and a yarn with the Club members who have brought a few samples of their hobby for you to enjoy in a good restoration they run as badly as they did when they were new. Tell them about your own favourite memory of old machinery from when you were growing up in the (so called) good old days.

The Club was formed to bring together people with an interest in old machinery, particularly old engines and tractors and the equipment driven by them. The Club promotes the preservation and restoration of this equipment and its members provide advice and assistance to each other. The Club meets monthly at Hawkesbury Showground, between Windsor & Richmond and organises one major rally each year on the third

weekend in September.

They also attend many events run by other organisations, and conduct displays of their machinery.

A 1/3 scale Fowler traction engine, built by one of our members, will be moving around the Showground and is worth a close look when you see it.

Open 7 Days - Ph: (02) 8814 9040 www.lancastersfresh.com.au 141 Lancaster St, Blacktown

(02) 9622 8779

Join the thousands of people who have made the switch to the Cartridge World brand

Specialising in Birthday Cakes, Christening, Wedding Cakes, Novelty Cakes, Continental Cakes, Sweets, Biscuits, Savouries, Desserts & Pastries Shop 1073, Westpoint Shopping Centre Fresh Food Section Blacktown 2148

www.cartridgeworld.com.au

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Blacktown City Show

Blac Show P

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GATES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC WOODCHOPPING - Commences behind the Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL Club PROFESSOR WALLACE’S PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL Club WORKING DOG DEMONSTRATION - Centre Ring BLACKTOWN CITY JUDO CLUB - Optus Stage PROFESSOR WALLACE’S PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent Sponsored by Blacktown RSL MAORI CULTURAL DANCE GROUP - Optus Stage BOLIVIAN DANCE GROUP - Optus Stage WORKING DOG DEMONSTRATION - Centre Ring PROFESSOR WALLACE’S PUPPET THEATRE - Big Top Tent DOG HIGH JUMP DEMONSTRATION - Centre Ring TONYS MAGIC SHOW - Big Top Tent CITY OF BLACKTOWN PIPE BAND - Optus Stage Sponsored by Best Dental OFFICIAL OPENING - Optus Stage CROWNING OF THE BLACKTOWN SHOWGIRL - Optus Stage Sponsored by Blacktown Workers Club & Westpoint WORKING DOG DEMONSTRATION - Centre Ring EMERALD DRAGON MARTIAL ART DEMONSTRATION - Optus Stage TONYS MAGIC SHOW - Big Top Tent MT DRUITT ABORIGINAL INDIGENOUS CHOIR - Optus Stage NATASHA’S ARTS THEATRE - Optus Stage TRIBAL DRUM - Optus Stage BLACKTOWN MINI BIKE CLUB - Centre Ring Sponsored by Motorcycle Accessories Supermarket UFC GYM DEMONSTRATION - Optus Stage ARD FMX TEAM - Centre Ring NATASHA’S ARTS THEATRE - Optus Stage BLACKTOWN CITY COMMUNITY BAND - Optus Stage ARD FMX TEAM - Centre Ring ELVIS IN CONCERT Featuring DAVID CAZALET - Optus Stage ARD FMX TEAM - Centre Ring FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR - Centre Ring Sponsored by Blacktown City Council

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Blacktown City Show

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Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

cktown City PROGRAMME

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Blacktown City Show

Blacktown City Community Band

The Blacktown City Community Band also known as the BCCB was formed in 2004 trained by Maestro Pablo ‘Jun’ Javier of the Jun Javier Music School. The band plays different styles of music such as jazz, pop, latin, swing, disco and Christian songs. The various musical instruments played by the band include flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets, trombones, french horns, tubas, euphoniums, bass and lead guitars, keyboards, drums and percussions. At

Mt Druitt Indigenous Choir

present, the band consists of 28 members ranging from ages 6 to 23. The band has regularly performed on a number of major occasions like ANZAC parade, Sydney Royal Easter show, Christmas Tree Lightups and yearly town festivals. Aside from its regular perfomances, BCCB is actively performing in local schools, churches, hospitals, nursing homes and even jail houses.

BCCB is based in Sydney, Australia and meets

every Sunday at 2:00 to 5:00 pm for regular practice and rehearsals. The band aims to develop young generation’s musicality and instil responsibility and commitment through community involvement and mission work. We welcome new members.

For enquiries, please contact us via email at info@ bccbsydney.org.

For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; the upright will see his face. — Psalm 11:7 (NIV)

The choir has now become very popular and have sang at thirty venues last year – not many choirs have this many opportnities.

They perform by invitation at functions around the city and country.

The local Aboriginal language Dharug is being taught to the choir, as well as the English songs, so they can portray the links directly to their culture in performances. Their website is www.onegoodday.org.au.

Blacktown City Show The group was form in 2014 to showcase the variety dances from Bolivia, the ages range from 5 years to late 50’s having a kids group and adults, where disability is not an issue. Anyone can dance Typical dances like: Caporales is a traditional Andean dance originated in La Paz, Bolivia.

[1] Caporales were presented to the public for the first time in 1969 by the Estrada Pacheco brothers, who were inspired in the character of the ‘Caporal’ this is the overseer of the black slaves and was usually mixed race, wore boots and held a whip, a dance that belongs to the region of the Yungas, Bolivia[2]

Tinku, a Bolivian Aymara tradition, began as a form of ritualistic combat.

In the Aymara language, it means “meeting-encounter.”[1] During this ritual, men and women from different communities will meet and begin the festivities by dancing.

The women will then form circles and begin chanting while the men proceed to fight each other; rarely the women will join in the fighting as well. Large tinkus are held inPotosí during the first few weeks of May. The Tobas were a tribe of warriors who lived in the Chaco region of Bolivia. When the Incas came to conquer them, they were amazed by the rich culture of fierce warriors that

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Bolivian Dance Group

they encountered. The Incas greatly admired the Tobas dance and they were taken from their Amazonian homeland by the Emperor Tupac Yupanqui. The dance and music of the Tobas has been reinterpreted by subsequent people of Bolivia like the Aymara and the Mestizos.

Diablada or Danza de los Diablos (English: Dance of the Demons), is an original and typical dance from the region of Oruro in Bolivia. characterized by the mask and devil suit worn by the performers.[4][5] The dance is a mixture of religious theatrical presentations brought from Spain and Andean religious ceremonies such as the Llama llama dance in honor of the Uru god Tiw (protector of mines, lakes, and

rivers),[6] and the Aymaran miners’ ritual to Anchanchu, Morenada (Dance of the Black Slaves)[1] is a music and dance style from the Bolivian Andes characterized by a mixture of African and Indigenous elements.[2] The origins of this dance, the three main hypotheses say that the dance could have been inspired in African slaves brought to Bolivia to work in the silver mines of Potosí, another theory states that it would be inspired in the Afro-Bolivian community living in the Yungas region of La Paz, and the third main theory links this dance with the Aymara culture due to the findings of cave paintings in the Lake Titicaca shores in the Taraco peninsula.

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

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In 2008, two machinery and truck enthusiasts started talking about old trucks and clubs and, in the absence of a club in Sydney, decided to form one themselves.

They set about planning, and historical registration was granted by the RTA and The Western Sydney Historical Truck Club (Inc) had its first meeting in December 2009 and hasn’t looked back since.

The Club holds its major event, “Haulin’ The Hume”’ every two years, where trucks travel the old Hume Highway to reminisce the good ol’ days and to raise funds for Autism Spectrum. Many of the truck drivers, transport industry companies and sponsors have

family members affected by autism, so there is no hesitation by people to support the event. We have trucks from all over Australia who travel from their home State just to participate in this one event.

Today, the Club has 112 members who enjoy regular get-togethers which include breakfast runs, family run days and sometimes just a barbecueand-movie night.

We also attend events in support of other clubs and groups in country areas, throughout the year. We try to have something every month and they are always well attended.

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Blacktown City Show

David was born in New York, the 4th son of an American sailor and his Australian war bride. From a very young age David would amuse his family and friends with his rendition of Elvis’ songs. This amusement turned to amazement as David’s voice and appearance developed an uncanny resemblance to that of Elvis.

Today David Cazalét is not just another Elvis impersonator, but an entertainer of astounding ability and charisma, his voice is unquestionably the best in his field with all the range, warmth and feel so reminiscent of Elvis.

Wherever David has performed throughout the world – be it Resort Hotels, Casinos or Corporate Events he has left a unique impression with both entertainment agents and the general public alike, ensuring repeat engagements and many adoring fans.

David has proven time and again that he can perform in any environment and walk off the stage a winner.

David is the consummate professional and takes pride in

Sponsored by Blacktown RSL

working with musicians, dancers, singers and production staff the equal of anywhere in the world. He has worked very hard to attain his position in the entertainment world and I’m sure that when you see him perform you will agree… “The King Lives in Cazalét”.

Hey Kids! Guess who’s coming to this year’s Blacktown City Show?

It’s Prof. Wallace’s Puppet Theatre!

Prof. Wallace’s Puppet Theatre is one of the oldest continuous performing acts in Australia.

The origins go back over 100 years when your great grandparents were kids.

He is not only part of puppet history but a part of Australian history.

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Prof. Wallace’s Puppet The King Lives On! David Cazalet As Elvis Theatre

Western News

ENTERTAINMENT

By KeRRIE DAVIES

H

E’s a rebel and he’ll never be any good! Ahh..relive the good old days of 1960s innocence at Rooty Hil RSL on April 20.

Coming direct from the U.S, the defining all-female American vocal group, The Crystals is gearing up to rock you with Sixties International Hits.

The Crystals’ Wall of Sound recordings, produced by the legendary Phil Spector, include ‘And Then He Kissed Me’, ‘Da Do Ron Ron’, “He’s a Rebel’, ‘He’s Sure the Boy I Love’ and many more. Three of The Crystals’ songs are included in the Rolling Stone magazine list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.

Dee Dee Kenniebrew, who was in the original line up of The Crystals, spoke with your writer from Atlanta, Georgia about the upcoming Australian tour.

Dee Dee said she was looking forward to heading down under again as the audiences here are unique.

“Australians are very receptive because they are genuinely very nice people and have the greatest sense of humour in the world,” Dee Dee said.

The Crystals will be joined by special guests, the Allstars and also Hispanic hit maker Chris Montez.

The Allstars can trace their pedigree back to the late fifties when rock n roll began. They have performed in the best venues in Australia and have shared the stage with Tom Jones, Rick Nelson, Del Shannon, Gene Pitney, the Shadows and Chubby Checker just to name a few.

During the high-energy performance, you will find it a challenge to remain in your seat as all the old favourite tunes are belted out.

“The audience will be able to put themselves back in the 60s, listen to the old stuff and just have fun; no worries just dance!” Dee Dee said.

“We recreate that era which was such a fun time and just let it rip.”

Friday 20th April - ROOTY HILL RSL - Bookings: (02) 9677 4916.

Can money really buy everything?

Bosom buddies

avid Walliams’ bestselling novel Billionaire Boy comes to life onstage at The Joan in a play by Maryann Master for one show only.

Twelve-year-old Joe has everything a boy could ever want, from a golden underwater Ferrari to his very own cinema. Joe and his Dad have more money than you could imagine, but what Joe really needs is a friend. When Joe arrives at his new school, life really gets tough. Facing the school bully, his Dad’s new girlfriend and the world’s worst school canteen, Joe is about to learn that money might buy you a lot in Raj’s shop, but it can’t buy you everything.

Don’t miss this original Australian adaptation of Billionaire Boy with songs, laughs and yes, that cat sick and sweet potato mash from the canteen… as CDP Kids, the team behind Mr Stink and all the Treehouse Stories, again works magic to create live theatre suitable for 6–12 year olds — and their adults!

It’s got wit around every corner, and I know it’s for younger kids, but people of all ages can get humour from the jokes. Patrick.

And if you love kids’ theatre, our April school holiday show Josephine wants to dance, will leave you whirling and twirling with delight – April 27, 10am & 12noon!

he music, the stories and the laughs that stopped the show.

She is Australia’s leading lady of musical theatre.

He is Australia’s favourite song and dance man. Together on stage, these two stars are brightly shining.

With over 90 years of entertaining experience, four Helpmann awards between them and three decades of working together, Nancye Hayes and Todd McKenney are pals, chums, Bosom Buddies.

In this new show, they reflect on their stage careers and their life in showbiz.

They sing, they dance, they reminisce - about the lows as well as the highs.

They tell back stage stories never before told and they show video footage never before seen. Exploring some of the home truths about the entertainment industry show is, in turns, moving, poignant and hilarious. As part of each performance the audience is invited to ask the questions they’ve always wanted to ask. Answers guaranteed!

The recipient of three Lifetime Achievement Awards, three Helpmann Awards, four Green Room Awards, two Glug Awards and a Mo, Nancye Hayes AM, is an actor, dancer, singer, choreographer and director who began her career in My Fair Lady in 1961 and established her name in the title role in Sweet Charity in 1967. Since then she has sung, danced and acted her way through a cavalcade of successes and into the hearts of Australian theatregoers.

Inspiring, provocative and

D

For the best seats in the house, book your tickets now before they sell out http://thejoan.com. au/whats-on/ or at the box office 4723 7600.

All kids and family tickets: Adult $25 Children $20 Family $76 (4 people - at least one adult).

There is still time save extra dollars by subscribing to see any three kids and family shows this year including Billionaire Boy, Josephine Wants to Dance, The 78-Storey Treehouse & Lah-Lah Duration 60 minutes, no interval.

T

compelling are just three words that describe the critically acclaimed and award-winning singer, dancer, actor and all-round entertainer Todd McKenney.

Best known as the controversial judge on the Channel 7 hit series Dancing with the Stars for an incredible 15 seasons, as well as his towering performance as Peter Allen in the Australian production of The Boy From Oz for nearly 1000 performances over two years, Todd has been centre stage in Australia for more than 35 years.

Sharp, witty, entertaining......

McKenney and Hayes show what fabulous actors they are - Daily Telegraph. Don’t miss your chance to ask the questions you’ve always wanted to know and be part of the candid confessions from beyond the curtain from two Bosom Buddies.

Performance are Tuesday 17 April at 7.30pm and Wednesday 18 April at 11am & 7.30pm. Tickets on sale at the Joan Box office 4723 7600 or online at www.thejoan.com.au

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

The Crystals: sensational hitmakers from the 60s

19

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

20

WESTERN HISTORY

CONVICT Extraordinaire

The Story of Arthur Bristol (1808 – 1884)

By Paul Wheeldon

spent two nights in gaol for his trouble.

Sometime, soon after mid 1861, Bristol made a decision to leave the city and make a new life ne might expect that Bristol would in the country, taking with him Jane Dean and now ‘settle down’, but his life was to her three youngest children. The youngest child, follow its troubled and tortuous course James, took the Bristol surname. (The Deans had for a little longer. One of his first acts as a free married in 1845 and had 5 living children.) The man was to marry 24 year old spinster Anne St. Leonards property was sold during April and Jones at St. James Church, Sydney in April May 1861 for 165 pounds. Bristol was then 53 1849. The marriage was apparently short-lived, years of age and Jane 38. either because of Anne’s death or because one Their country destination was the Lake Bathurst of the partners walked out, for there is no district, where Elizabeth was born to them in record of any issue from the union, nor is there May 1863. Another daughter, Caroline Isabella, any further reference to Anne. Bristol was now was born in September 1866. Their address then living on the North Shore, most likely at St. was Emu Meadow Station, near Queanbeyan and Leonards, working as a waterman (boatman), Bristol’s occupation was given as ‘carpenter’. and for a short time his life appeared to be more When their last child, Arthur (junior) was born in settled. In July 1853 he purchased a block of 1868 he was listed as a ‘shepherd’. land on the corner of Edward and Mount The family’s move to the Murringo district came Streets in St. Leonards for 25 pounds, only to between 1874 and 1876, with Bristol involved in sell it within two years for a handsome profit farm work and living on the Willawang Creek. of 175 pounds. However, in the years from  Jane Bristol Arthur and Jane were finally married at St. John’s 1855 to 1861, sixteen instances of trouble with Church, Boorowa in January 1881, when he was 72 and Jane 57. The the law have been found. Most of Bristol’s offences appear to have marriage registration makes no reference to Bristol’s earlier marriage, been associated with excessive drinking. There were numerous cases while Jane states, ‘widow’, even though John Dean was still alive (he of ‘drunkeness’, ‘using insulting language’, ‘threatening language’, died the following year in 1882 at St. Leonards). What contact there ‘obscene and abusive language’, ‘disorderly behaviour’ and even one was with the Bristols by John Dean and any of his other children is of ‘presenting firearms’. Although on one occasion he was acquitted hard to say but there are indications that there was some contact. of attempting to steal meat, on another he was found guilty of stealing Bristol was working as a fencer for the Parkman family of ‘Calabash’, three fowls from his former landlord. One case involved his failure Murringo when he took ill. He died on 2 May 1884, aged 76. His body to complete a building contract. There was also a charge of being was laid to rest in the Murringo cemetery, his soul finally free of the illegally on the premises of a widow and her daughter, in defence of memories that must have tormented him, but his body still bearing the which he claimed “he had been courting and had got a good beating scars of the leg irons and the lash. for his trouble”. He was nevertheless found guilty, and a week later Although this is essentially a family history story, it is also very much guilty again of using threatening language towards the same lady. a local history. Many locations in and around Sydney and the country These many and varied transgressions invoked a range of penalties areas are identified, including some of the well known colonial from small fines to gaol sentences of up to three months. personalities of the day.

It was also during this period that John Dean (Danes) and his wife Jane Arthur Bristol was one of my paternal great great grandparents. Tony (nee. Leiper and later Napier) began to figure prominently in Bristol’s Grainge and I have just returned from an historic holiday tour of life. Dean and Bristol owned adjoining property at St. Leonards. As Norfolk Island with the RAHS led by Judith Dunn. It was well worth early as June 1853 Bristol had helped finance Dean’s purchase of the trip and we learnt a lot about Norfolk Island life in the 1830s and a large block in West Street, St. Leonards. Then, in February 1858 1840s.

Bristol purchased half of this block from Dean (with weatherboard References to this history have been obtained from State Records cottage) for 50 pounds. The two worked together as carpenters and NSW, BD&M’s and family records. Additionally I would like builders. Furthermore, when John Dean was violently beaten by a to thank Brad. Gorham, another descendant, who initiated this disgruntled client in March 1857, it was Bristol who, a fortnight later, massive search on Arthur Bristol’s life. threatened his friend’s assailant with a gun. He was charged, tried and

Continued from last issue...

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BEFORE

AFTER

Western News

ENTERTAINMENT

SUDOKU: EASY

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

WORD SEARCH

21

SOLUTION: 16 March

Ice Cream Flavors VANILLA

TRIPLE TORNAD

NEOPOLITAN

CHOCOLATE

PECAN

ROCKY ROAD

STRAWBERRY

FUDGE

GREEN TEA

MOOSE TRACKS

COOKIE DOUGH

BANANA

REESES

COCONUT

INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Used to spin yarn (7) 5 Atomic (7) 9 Stamping (9) 10 Delineated (5) 11 A public speech (7) 12 Of little importance (7) 13 Stardom (9) 15 Gapes (5) 17 Amounts of

medicine (5) 19 A style of physical

comedy (9) 22 Complain (7) 25 Every evening (7) 26 Permeate (5) 27 Craft (9) 28 Misbeliever (7) 29 Able to see (7)

solution 16/3/18

down 1 Varnish (7) 2 Dummies (9) 3 Annoy (7) 4 Widespread outbreaks of

disease (9) 5 Not daytime (5) 6 A deliberate thinning of a herd (7) 7 Boredom (5) 8 Brain-teasers (7) 14 Prolonged unfulfilled desires (9) 16 Vest (9) 17 Like a canine (7) 18 In school, math or English (7) 20 Autographing (7) 21 Paddled in a type of boat (7) 23 Medium to dark brown (5) 24 Moral principle (5)

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

22

local columnists

Western News

Country Picnic Races Picking a winner - does red go faster

The home straight

Goanna Wrestling

By BEN CRANNEY

I recently went to the Yass picnic races. The beauty of leaving Sydney for the races is that if you pick the right ones, you pay the entrance fee ($25 at Yass, including stubbie holder and shuttle bus) and it’s BYO everything else. It makes it a much more personal experience, because you don’t end up queuing for hours for food, drink or bets, leaving more time for mates and pretending to know how to pick a horse. This personable-ness even extends to the people trying to take your money. Instead of an app, the

bookies were there in person, leather bags full of cash. I went to place my bet on a two horse race, both horses paying $1.75. With no favourite to pick and neither name sounding lucky, I said to the bookie ‘I may as well flip a coin’. He picked one up and I called heads for ‘Mr Paul’. Heads it was, and Mr Paul came home strongly.

When the races got boring, we made our own fun. Again, being in the country is an advantage, because everyone’s a bit more relaxed. Not impressed with the race, one fellow jumped the fence and ran after the horses, with the crowd cheering him

Joining the race - Money on Gumby

on. He was also robbed in fashions of the field, where his Gumby suit didn’t impress. The kids kept asking who he was meant to be, making us feel old.

Then the goanna wrestling started, named because the two wrestlers look like goannas facing off. With two belts buckled together (RM belts, naturally), the wrestlers are on hands and knees, with the belt looped over the back of the neck, trying to pull each other back.

There are plenty of other race options, too. September sees the 5000 people strong Aggies Race Day in Wagga, and the pubs and clubs turn it on afterwards for the university crowd.

Try Cootamundra in Spring, to see the bright yellow canola infield, or the Silver City Cup at Broken Hill for an adventure just in getting there. If glitz and glamour in a country setting is what you want, I hear Scone is where to go. With around $2 million in prize money, it attracts some fancy crowds and fancier horses that are worth more than a coin toss.

Sadly, because of tightening restrictions on some of the fun mentioned above, or just not breaking even, a lot of the races are being shut down. So get out there soon, before the race leaves you behind.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel The Darkest Hour When I was living in London, a lady called Mavis Parkinson called me for a reading and we duly made a booking. Almost an hour before the appointed time, I was watering the garden, enthusiastically helped by my large dog who thought it great fun to attack the hose thereby covering us both with water and mud. I peered through my dripping fringe to see my daughter coming down the garden with a rather odd look on her face.

“Your client’s here” “Well, put her in the dining room, offer her a cup of tea and tell her I won’t be long,” I said, wondering why she sounded a bit strange. “What’s wrong?”

“You’ll see,” she replied enigmatically and wandered back in.

From the way Mavis had spoken, I had imagined a little old lady with grey hair, a cardigan and a broad northern accent. Anyway, I dried me and the dog as best I could, tied back the soggy hair and sallied forth to meet Granny Parkinson. Nothing could have been further from the truth. As I walked into the dining room this vision stood up and held out a hand denizened with rings. Perched atop a pair of white stiletto heels, her taut, spray-tanned body clad in clinging white and sporting enough jewellery to pay off the National Debt, was a total, albeit slightly ageing, babe. “’Ullo, I’m Maaavis Paarkinson”.

The accent was pure Yorkshire. I was riveted but especially by her coiffeur. Her blonde hair was pulled back so tightly that it rendered a face lift unnecessary to form a sort of bun that stuck up about six inches from the top of her head.

Once I had got over my initial shock, we did the reading and poor old Mave had problems. She had a beauty salon in a posh part of London and had had all her money conned out of her by a bogus Saudi Princess who had promised to set her up in a salon in Riyadh and then promptly disappeared taking all Mave’s money with her.

We did the reading and Gran did show her a way out. Mave then became my greatest fan calling me at least three times a day to ask my advice.

“I’m having a meeting this morning. Psychically what should I wear?” I do have a slight confession to make here. I really didn’t want to worry Gran & Co with Mave’s wardrobe dilemmas so always used to say “Wear the cream jacket.” “Do you think so?”

“Yes, you look lovely in that!”

Anyway, poor old Mave lurched from one disaster to another but always with great style and chutzpah.

How she escaped disaster still amazes me, but I really think Gran ran her company for at least five years.

She would arrive in tears absolutely on the point of bankruptcy but Gran would sort her out. I used to tell her that the spirit world pulled her up from the brink of disaster by her topknot and I think it was true.

It is so difficult to believe when a psychic tells you that it will be okay when all the odds are against it, but please, like the glamorous Mavis Parkinson, do have faith. Spirit want to help, so ask them and let them, especially when your world seems to be imploding around your ears.

Remember, the darkest is always just before the dawn.

The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

Western REAL ESTATE / SPORT News

First home buyers back in force

First home buyers now make up 25.8% of the total owner occupied housing market excluding refinancing – the highest rate since December 2012, a new report shows.

The number of loans issued to first home buyers is now at its highest since December 2009 at 30,894 in the December 2017 quarter. This is an increase of 6.8% over the previous quarter and 32.6% over a year ago, says the latest Adelaide Bank/Real Estate Institute of Australia Housing Affordability Report.

Adelaide Bank’s head of distribution, third party banking, Darren Kasehagen, said the continued increase in the number of first home buyers – with the exception of Western Australia – is a particularly welcome finding.

By number of loans, the total figure excluding refinancing increased in all states and territories except NSW and Western Australia.

Kasehagen said the low interest rate environment combined with fewer investors in competition with first home buyers indicates that there should be strong levels of domestic demand and continuing property market activity.

“The Australian property market is undergoing cyclical change, and my tip is that we’ll see more movement in the ‘upgrader’ market as older homeowners look at ‘right-sizing’ their properties, accessing some equity and shifting to homes that are better suited to changing lifestyles.”

But, before you get carried away, it’s important to check off the essentials first. Although organising your finances may seem drab in comparison to perusing sales listings, gaining pre-approval with a lender will give you confidence about how much you can afford to borrow.

“First and foremost you need to determine if you’re eligible to borrow

money from a lender,” says the finance broker. “Your ability to repay the loan will need to be assessed – you don’t what to find out after you’ve [made an offer] that your credit history or deposit is not up to scratch.”

Arranging finance before finding the perfect property will put you in a good position when it comes time to make an offer. When you do find the house you have always wanted, you can present to the seller and estate agent as a prepared applicant who is serious and reliable.

Sellers are most interested in completing their sale fuss-free and with steadfast funding, and showing that you are capable of both will help put you at the top of a potentially competitive list of applicants.

In the instance that you find and secure purchase of a home without having your loan pre-approved by a lender, there are a few pitfalls that you risk running into.

@wealthwiz

“If you don’t have financing to pay for your property, you run the risk of forfeiting your initial 10 per cent nonrefundable deposit you need to put down to secure the property. This may differ depending on what state you live in, but the point is it always pays to be organised and have pre-approval in place,” Nolan says.

Saving home loan applications to the last minute also leaves less time to find the most suitable loan and have it approved ahead of settlement.

Arranging financing as an afterthought also adds immense pressure to the process of shopping around for the right loan and gathering the paperwork to prove you can service the loan. Wealthwiz advises “You don’t want to rush this process.”

The first step towards finding your new home is speaking to Alex Soncini from Wealthwiz 0419 6001 77 to sort out the finances.

Western News 30 March 2018 Issue 56

Alex Soncini

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#wealthwizau

WealthWiz Wealth Management | Suite 3, 47-51 Richmond Rd, Blacktown Call 8004 6655 | www.wealthwiz.com.au

Date set for 2018 Blacktown Relay For Life

PLUMBER

MAINTENANCE & PLUMBING UPGRADE WORKS - PENRITH BASED With work throughout the Sydney Metro

B

lacktown Relay For Life celebrates 16 years on the weekend of October 27 and 28.

The 2017 Blacktown Relay For Life involved 630 participants and raised more than $123,000, helping to fund Cancer Council programs such as 13 11 20, which more than 100,000 Australians contact each year for information and advice.

The funds raised from Relay For Life also support the Cancer Council Information Service and wig library at Blacktown Hospital’s cancer care centre.

Teams are encouraged to sign up for the 2018 Blacktown Relay For Life now.

Visit www.relayforlife.org.au/blacktown or find out more from the Blacktown Relay For Life Facebook page.

The Blacktown Relay For Life organising committee is community-based.

There are still some committee positions to fill. Team captains and others able to contribute can contact Cancer Council on (02) 9354 2014 or email leanne. langdon@nswcc.org.au

Not sure what 2018 brings?

Looking for a new challenge?

If you are a licensed and experienced Plumber with a background in maintenance and upgrade works why not send your resume NOW to join the Hix Group team for a fresh start?

Send your resume to hr@hix.com.au & be sure to tell us about: • your qualifications, skills & experience • what type of work you would like to do • a little bit about yourself and why you want to join the Hix team Or contact Ian Hicks on: 4721

7500 for more information

Western News Friday, 30 March 2018

SPORT

Will the Western Sydney Wanderers miss finals?

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Western S y d n e y Wa n d e r e r s are a chance of missing the finals after a 3-0 loss to Melbourne City at AAMI Park on Saturday night.

The Wanderers went out in a game they had to win as they try to secure a top six finish, however have been dealt a huge blow in their finals chances after third place Melbourne City easily dispatched of the Western Sydney club.

The Western Sydney Wanderers now have three games in which to cement their position within the top six and make sure they are around in the finals.

The Wanderers have to play Melbourne Victory, Adelaide United and Brisbane Roar who are all within seven points of each other on the ladder and trying to avoid the drop out of the top six.

The Western Sydney Wanderers striker, Oriol Reira spoke about how the team plans to play the

remaining games of the season and how to try and beat Melbourne Victory.

“I think the last two games will be at home so we know the importance of them, but to take points on the road is the best and we have to do all the things on the field to try and get the points in Melbourne, because the team is in front of us so we have to try and beat them and win the three points,” he said.

“Treat each game like a final and try to do our best and do everything we can on the field and play the games like it’s the final.”

The Wanderers have been in this position before after only securing their finals position in the last week of the regular season last year and knowing that they have pressure on them as they are rated as a big club within the league.

The Western Sydney Wanderers next match is against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on Saturday 31st of March, with kick-off at 7:50pm.