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ISSUE 121

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Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

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Finalists announced for 2020 Blacktown City Art Prize

ne hundred and thirteen artworks from across Australia have been selected as finalists in the 2020 Blacktown City Art Prize after a record number of entries to the prestigious award. Artists around the country were invited to submit artwork for the annual $20,000 Blacktown City Art Prize, which celebrates its 25th year in 2020. The Prize consists of a $15,000 top award and three supporting awards – the Aboriginal Artist Prize, the Local Artist Prize and the People’s Choice Prize. A total of eight hundred and ninetyseven entries from six hundred and sixty artists were received for this year – an increase of almost seventy per cent on the number submitted in 2019. The artwork submissions ranged from painting and drawing to sculpture, ceramics and mixed media. Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said he was delighted to see the work of talented homegrown artists living in Blacktown City selected alongside pieces submitted by artists from around Australia. “Now in its 25th year, the Blacktown City Art Prize is a major cultural event in Western Sydney,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “To have almost 900 pieces of art entered to the Prize amid what has been a tumultuous and often difficult year is proof that the spirit of creativity and a desire to communicate cannot be dampened by this pandemic. “As the Mayor of Blacktown City, I am immensely proud that our annual Art Prize keeps growing and attracting work of such a high calibre. “I am sure the judging panel has a difficult task ahead of them in selecting winners for each category. “I look forward to seeing all the wonderful artworks on display at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.” The works were judged by a panel comprising of Kyra Kum-Sing (Artist and Curator, Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative), Pedro de Almeida (Senior Curator, C3West at Museum of Contemporary Art,

Sydney) and Cath Barcan (Artist and Head Teacher of Visual Arts, Nepean Arts & Design Centre, TAFE NSWKingswood). “The huge number of entries showed just how valuable creativity is to people, especially this year during isolation,” the panel said in a statement. Twenty five per cent of the selected artworks are by Blacktown City residents, and will be eligible for the Local Artist Prize. Ten per cent are by Aboriginal artists, and will be eligible for the Aboriginal Artist Prize. The finalists will be part of an exhibition at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre from 28 November 2020 to 28 January 2021. The top award at the 2019 Blacktown City Art Prize was taken out by Blacktown resident Jamie Eastwood for ‘Blacktown Native Institution 1823-2018 Then and Now’, a mixed media artwork made from acrylic paint, collage and paper ochre. To view to complete list of one

hundred and thirteen finalists visit https://blacktownarts.com.au/ blacktown-city-art-prize-finalistsannounced. Prizes awarded: Blacktown City Art Prize: $15,000 Aboriginal Artist Prize: $2,000 Local Artist Prize: $2,000 People’s Choice Prize: $1,000 The artwork awarded the Blacktown City Art Prize will be acquired for the Blacktown City Art Collection. All other artworks in the exhibition will be available to buy in person at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre or online via the Blacktown Arts website for the duration of the exhibition. For further information visit blacktownarts.com.au/bcap. Prize winners will be announced online on Saturday, 28 November 2020 at 2pm via the Blacktown Arts Facebook page. The Young Artists Prize Young people who live or study in Blacktown City aged between 3 and fifteen are invited to enter the Young Artists Prize. The theme for 2020 is ‘Staying strong’.

The artwork can be a drawing, painting, print, sculpture or ceramic piece. Artworks are displayed as part of the Blacktown City Art Prize exhibition. For more information visit https:// blacktownarts.com.au/bcap/youngartists-prize/. 2020 BLACKTOWN CITY ART PRIZE KEY DATES Tuesday 27 October 2020 Finalists announced Friday 13 and Saturday 14 November 2020, 9am – 5pm Artwork delivered to the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, 78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown. The centre is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm. Saturday 28 November 2020 Prize winners announced online at 2pm Saturday 28 November 2020 – Thursday 28 January 2021 Exhibition open at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre Friday 29 and Saturday 30 January 2021, 9am – 5pm Artwork collection from the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre

Funding blitz for Blacktown Showground upgrade

lacktown Showground is set for an upgrade after being allocated $521,000 under the NSW Government’s COVID-19 stimulus program. Member for Seven Hills, Mark Taylor, said the announcement followed $389,000 in upgrade work that was funded last financial year for new aluminium seating, air conditioning, carpentry work, a new barbecue, tap replacements, painting of buildings and tree planting. “It is fantastic to see the stimulus program funding more improvement

works at Blacktown Showground whilst supporting jobs and the economy,” Mr Taylor said. “The funding will allow a new roof to be built over the grandstand, making the Showground more accommodative of future events.” Member for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly, said the NSW Government values the central role of showgrounds to communities across the state. “Showgrounds provide a place for communities to gather and celebrate. They are an essential part of the community fabric which helps people

have a sense of belonging in their local area,” Mr Conolly said. “This funding will help modernise and preserve these important community centres for many years.” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes, said the COVID-19 stimulus program has now allocated more than $35 million to showground improvement projects across the state. “The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for better public spaces across our state. This program not only provides a

short-term economic stimulus, but also leaves a lasting legacy across 228 of the state’s showgrounds,” Mr Stokes said. “This program has supported more than 1,330 jobs on showground projects across the state providing work for tradespeople, suppliers and fabricators.” As we saw during recent bushfires and floods in regional NSW, showgrounds also provide a place for people to go during an emergency, so our investment across NSW will help communities in times of need.

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n Albanese Labor Government will introduce the Working Family Childcare Boost to “cut childcare fees and put more money into the pockets of working families.” Announced by the Leader of the Australian Labor Party, Anthony Albanese MP, during his Budget Reply speech, Labor’s childcare policy would reduce childcare costs for 97 per cent of families currently in the system. “This is more than childcare policy – this is about economic recovery”, Ms Michelle Rowland MP, the Federal Member for Greenway said. “I have met so many constituents who say they want to work more days a week, but doing so would mean they would be financially worse off due to rising childcare fees”. “This is about getting more Australians into work to kickstart our economy”, Ms Rowland said. “Since 2013, childcare fees have increased by almost 35 per cent, with families paying on average $3,800 more per year.” “The Blacktown Local Government area has been hit especially hard by these rising fees. Last year’s national increase was 4.5%. In our community, fees jumped a whopping 5.7%”, Ms Rowland said.

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

Labor: We’ll cut childcare fees if elected

Labor Leader Anthony Albanese recently visiting Kids’ Early Learning Lalor Park with local MP Michelle Rowland”.

Labor’s policy announcement would: • Scrap the $10,560 childcare subsidy cap which often sees parents losing money from an extra day’s

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work; • Lift the maximum childcare subsidy rate to 90 per cent; and • Increase childcare subsidy rates and taper them for every family

earning less than $530,000. “Anthony Albanese understands just how hard it is for local families, and Labor has a plan to fix it”, Ms Rowland said.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sports Journalist: Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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Level 1, Suite 101C, 130 Main Street, Blacktown PO Box 8525, Blacktown NSW 2148 (02) 9671 4780 Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au MRowlandMP www.michellerowland.com.au Authorised by Michelle Rowland MP, Australian Labor Party, Suite 101C, Level 1, 130 Main Street, Blacktown NSW 2148

From the Editor’s Desk By KeRRIE DAVIES

adly there are not many left who served our nation in WWII, with each passing year claiming more and more of them as they head toward the centenarian age bracket. In the words from the song, And the band played Waltzing Matilda, “Year after year more old men disappear - soon none of them will march there at all.” One of those lost was from my own family; Jack Richardson who passed last year at 94 years of age. He was my Uncle Jacky, my mother’s oldest brother. The oldest of six siblings and the only male, Uncle Jacky went off to war at the age of 17. He’d fibbed about his age like many patriotic young fellas did in those days. It was a number of years before he returned from war to his homeland, and his younger sisters were playing hopscotch when the young soldier strolled up the street. My mother hadn’t been born when he left and her older sisters had no idea who the handsome soldier was. It is a picture that’s almost unfathomable in this day and age of instant contact via mobile phones and social media, but that was the reality of the 1940s. Uncle Jacky was a salt of the earth type of bloke, with many war stories held close to his kind and gentle heart. He was proud to be part of the elite group of WWII veterans that were left, but he realised how fast they were dwindling last year when he was the only one left to march on Anzac Day from his branch. With Remembrance Day in November, it is a good time to remind ourselves that those who gave their all and fought for our freedom won’t be around forever, so let’s make the most of the time we have left with those who are still here. If you’re lucky enough to have someone in your life who served, listen to their stories so that you can pass them on. Lest We Forget.

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Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

Is trick or treating allowed this year?

SW Health supports individuals participating in COVID-safe Halloween celebrations, providing levels of community transmission remain low and participants follow current rules when gathering together. Help us stop the spread this Halloween and always remember to: • Keep 1.5 metres apart • Practise good hand hygiene • Stay home and get tested immediately if unwell • Wear a face mask if unable to physically distance COVID-safe tips if you plan to hand out treats NSW Health recommends: • If you have any symptoms of COVID-19 over Halloween, stay home, don’t receive Halloween visitors and get tested immediately • If you are self-isolating, don’t answer the door to trick-or-treaters • Make it a front-yard event, not at the front-door of your house. Keep your celebrations outdoors and get creative in decorating the front yard • Only hand out individually wrapped treats • Don’t use communal lolly bowls. Consider other ways of distributing treats such as hanging them individually on your fence, front gate or up your driveway

• Offer hand sanitiser at your front gate or fence • You may wish to avoid people knocking on your door by putting up a sign that says “We are home but due to COVID-19, we are distancing. Please take one, Happy Halloween” • Remember, you can only have 20 people on your property at one time. COVID-safe tips if you plan to trick-or-treat NSW Health recommends: • If you have any symptoms of COVID-19 this Halloween, stay home and give trick-or-treating a miss this year. Get tested immediately • Keep it local by staying in your suburb rather than going to wellknown “treat streets” that attract crowds • Celebrate outside, don’t go to people’s front door

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REMEMBRANCE DAY ~ 11 NOVEMBER 2020 Remembrance Day 2020: Lest We Forget

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

n 11 November 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after four years of continuous warfare. With their armies retreating and close to collapse, German leaders signed an Armistice, bringing to an end the First World War. From the summer of 1918, the five divisions of the Australian Corps had been at the forefront of the allied advance to victory. Beginning with their stunning success at the battle of Hamel in July, they helped to turn the tide of the war at Amiens in August, followed by the capture of Mont St Quentin and PĂ¨ronne, and the breaching of German defences at the Hindenburg Line in September. By early October the exhausted Australians were withdrawn from battle. They had achieved a fighting reputation out of proportion to their numbers, but victory had come at a heavy cost. They suffered almost 48,000

Remembrance Day 2020

Lest We Forget.

We remember and honour those brave men and women who have served our country proudly in the past and continue to do the same today.

Stephen Bali MP Member for Blacktown Phone: 9671 5222 Shop 3063, Westpoint Shopping Centre, Blacktown Email: blacktown@parliament.nsw.gov.au

casualties during 1918, including more than 12,000 dead. In the four years of the war more than 330,000 Australians had served overseas, and more than 60,000 of them had died. The social effects of these losses cast a long shadow over the postwar decades. Each year on this day we observe one minuteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s silence at 11am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

REMEMBRANCE DAY ~ 11 NOVEMBER 2020 By TOMAS HAMILTON

ith restrictions on gathering numbers still in place a few weeks ago, the decision was made by many Sub-branches not to hold the usual Remembrance Day service. Hence, the popular service held each year at St Marys Train by St Marys Outpost RSL Sub-branch will also not go ahead as per usual. However the gates to the gun memorial will be left open between 10.30am and 11-15am for those who wish to lay a personal tribute. There will be some members present to assist and appropriate music for reflection will be played. To tune into the prerecorded service from home, visit St Marys Outpost Facebook page on Remembrance Day. Lest We Forget.

Tread gently on this foreign field, for it lies soaked in blood That flowed across this battlefield, a tragic crimson flood The names of those who fell near here, are muttered now by few A brave and selfless sacrifice, the living would all rue

Tread gently on this foreign field, I am every mother’s son Who saw my face at every dawn and each setting sun She kept her lonely vigil, till eternity claimed her soul Her tears no longer wash my name, upon an honour roll Tread gently on this foreign field and dare not caste your scorn On all that I could have been and descendants now unborn For we all charged like Lemmings, for country and for crown And in the flower of our youth, we were all cut down Tread gently on this foreign field and remember all those lost Their legend, part of history that came at too great a cost For the horse that stands unbridled and an empty chair at home Memories of the loved ones, who lie beneath this loam Tread gently on this foreign field, the wretched path I trod Now I lie without a name , that is known only to God A farmer’ plough may strike my bones and I might find a grave But weep you not for my past, it’s your future you must save

Prue Car MP “ Member for Londonderry

On Remembrance Day we pause to reflect on the sacrifice of those who put their lives on the line to serve our country, as well as those currently doing so. Lest we forget.

“

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. October 2020

We honour our brave Aussie Diggers who have sacrificed so much in the past and those serving our country today Lest We Forget

Kevin

Conolly MP

State Member for Riverstone

Phone: (02) 8883 3499 Fax: (02) 8883 3355 Mail: P.O. Box 65, Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768 Email: riverstone@parliament.nsw.gov.au www.kevinconollymp.com.au

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

Personal Tread Gently tributes welcome

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

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Breast cancer won’t wait for covid Make screening a priority this breast cancer awareness month

reastScreen NSW is encouraging women aged 50 to 74 to make their health a priority and book a free life-saving mammogram this Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Westmead Breast Cancer Institute director Associate Professor Nirmala Pathmanathan said this Breast Cancer Awareness month I encourage women living in Western Sydney to make booking a breast screen a priority. “A mammogram takes only 15 minutes and this 15 minutes could save your life,” Nirmala said. “BreastScreen NSW has implemented a range of hygiene and social-distancing measures to ensure clinics and mobile screening vans are COVID-19 safe, to protect women, staff, and the wider community.” These measures include: • Pre-screening questions around personal health and travel • Limiting the number of people in the clinic/van • Practising social distancing and providing hand sanitiser in waiting rooms • A minimal contact check-in process • Wearing masks • Additional cleaning of equipment and commonly used surfaces. Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of the Cancer Institute NSW, Professor David Currow said early detection is key to giving women the best chance of survival and reduces the likelihood of needing invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy.

Breast cancer survivor Stella Libri with her sister Melina Trimarchi.

“In 2020 alone, it’s expected that more than 6,240 women in NSW will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 973 will die from the disease,” Professor Currow said. “While these numbers are sobering, the good news is that if detected early, women have a 98 per cent chance of survival. “Breast screens can detect cancer as small as a grain of rice. Our research shows that women who receive a diagnosis as a result of regular breast screening are less likely to need a mastectomy. It proves that early detection is key to unlocking less invasive treatment options for patients, making it easier for them to recover, and giving them an overall better

quality of life,” Professor Currow said. Erskine Park resident Stella Libri received an invitation for her mammogram shortly after her 50th birthday. Stella had no symptoms of breast cancer and no concerns about her breast health. After having her first mammogram she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “It was a shock being diagnosed with breast cancer. Your life comes to a sudden stop. It was completely unexpected,” Stella said Stella had surgery to remove the breast cancer and because her cancer was detected early she didn’t require a mastectomy. “The cancer diagnosis and the

treatment put everything in perspective,” Stella said. “I had to remind myself that everything was going to be okay. Breast cancer is treatable, it’s manageable but this time it’s about me. It’s okay to be cared for and accept the support from your family and health professionals.” “Early detection is the golden ticket. It only takes a few minutes and could save your life. If you love your family, your children, your lifestyle and you’re over the age of 50 it’s time to get screened.” “I got through it and I now look forward to the future and enjoy what I’ve worked so hard to achieve.” Stella is looking forward to welcoming her first grandchild in 2021! The NSW Government, through the Cancer Institute NSW, is investing $62.4 million in breast cancer screening this financial year. An appointment with BreastScreen NSW is free, takes about 20 minutes in total and no doctor’s referral is needed. In addition to 46 BreastScreen NSW clinics, BreastScreen NSW has 16 mobile vans that provide services to about 180 locations across NSW, including in rural and remote areas. If you are aged 50 to 74 book your free mammogram today with BreastScreen NSW online at book. breastscreen.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 20 50. The BreastScreen NSW service can be accessed at BCI Sunflower clinics in Sydney’s West. At select Myer stores and hospitals near you.

Funding certainty continues for schools in the Riverstone Electorate

ublic school students in the Riverstone Electorate will benefit from funding certainty delivered in their school budget allocations for next year. Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said the allocations are part of $10.1 billion in annual funding being delivered to public schools for 2021. The distribution of funding through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM) ensures that the best possible learning opportunities are provided to directly benefit the 2021 student cohort. Mr Conolly said the $14.8 million funding for the Riverstone Electorate delivers support where it is needed the most, to students and schools with the greatest need. This amounts to an increase of $1.28 million more than last year’s allocation. “2021 will be the eighth year that the RAM has delivered funding certainty to schools to enable them to plan so that improvement will touch every classroom, be the work of every teacher and impact every student,” said Mr Conolly. In addition to a number of needs-based funding items, the funding will be allocated predominately

through the seven RAM loadings – the equity loadings (socio-economic, Aboriginal, low level adjustment for disability, English language proficiency) and the base loadings (location, per capita and professional learning).

“Needs-based funding underpins the great strength of public education - equity of opportunity, and will ensure schools in the Riverstone Electorate continue to flourish and deliver those opportunities,” said Mr Conolly.

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Angels in Highgate By BEN CRANNEY

alloween is coming up, and it got me thinking about one of my stranger travel interests, graveyards. I think this fascination began in Athens, where the Acropolis entrance ticket also gets you into the millennia old cemetery. We had the ticket, so figured we’d go. It was so peaceful. We’d found our own space in an area with thousands of years of continual human connection. There were some impressive ruins, remains of monuments to powerful people who probably thought their families would influence the world forever, but whose names are lost to

At Khai Dinh’s Tomb

crumbled grave stones, or are written in a script most now can’t read. And that was the other thing I loved, learning or imagining the stories of the people remembered there. London’s Highgate is incredibly atmospheric. Left to ruin for years, it’s now a battle between the groundskeepers, and the moss and forest. Visit the grave of the boxing champion, Tom Sayers, who fought a 42 round match, with a broken arm, against America’s champ in the first international fight. They ended up trading punches on their knees, blinded from swollen faces, and the fight only ended because the police broke it up. There are plenty of other

View from an Andean Cemetery

famous people with there, including Karl Marx, George Eliot and Australia’s own Sir Sidney Nolan. In Peru’s Sacred Valley, near Machu Picchu, is a mountain side filled with natural looking holes. Turns out, they are graves. I figured they were the resting places of the most important people, because it was beyond me how the anyone could be carried in there to be laid to rest. And then we saw little figures, invisible were it not for their huge loads and bright clothes, traversing the mountain face with ease, suggesting that the stories of all classes were hidden in that mountain. In Vietnam, near Hue, generations

of royals seem to have made burial a competition. Entire complexes big enough to farm are devoted to individuals and are more impressive than any other resting place that I’ve ever been to. We went to Khai Dinh (my favourite), Tu Doc and Minh Mang, and if I did it again, I’d go by boat along the Perfume River. Crawling through burials chambers in Orkney, watching the full moon set over the ocean at Waverley Cemetery, and visiting Homer’s Tomb at the end of the Greek Island, Ios, were all special experiences. But what I really want to see is a Viking Burial. I just need to find out where to go. Maybe you know?

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

Halloween: Stories from Cemeteries

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

Western News

Seven Tips For Securing A Business Loan

ecuring a business loan in Australia isn’t necessarily difficult but knowing how to navigate your way can be the difference between success and failure. With more than two million small businesses across Australia, you can say the small business community is dynamic, unique and thriving in their local community and each business has its own requirements. Access to a broker can make a world of difference to a small business owner particularly with many making difficult decisions as they navigate the flow on impacts of the pandemic. Banks and other financial institutions offer a wide range of business finance options, from commercial property loans, commercial vehicle leases, and commercial and equipment leases, to simpler options such as letters of credit, overdrafts and lines of credit. Here are some tips on how to improve your chances of success. 1. Work out what is realistic It’s a good idea to find and compare credit options based on the amount of money you need to borrow, how you want it supplied and the type of security you want to provide (residential, non-residential or

none at all). 2. Find a Finance Broker The next step is to speak to an MFAA accredited finance broker, who can help you work out what loan type and lender are appropriate for your business and you. finance brokers work with clients to determine their borrowing needs and abilities, select a loan suited to their circumstances and manage the process through to settlement. They also do a lot of the legal and other paperwork, they have access to a wide range of loans and are experts in the area. 3. Have a credit history and make it good Lenders are looking for two things when it comes to your credit status: an existing credit relationship and a relatively clear history. If a borrower already has an existing loan which they’re servicing on time, they are much more likely to be successful. Of course, there are options for those who are either credit impaired or just don’t have a documented credit history, and a finance broker can help clarify these. 4. Actively show how risk will be minimised Demonstrate how you will lessen the risk to you and to the lender. Your finance broker can help. 5. Be prepared

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For your first meeting with your finance broker, have up-to-date paperwork and tax records, make sure you’ve done your research and have a fair idea how much you want to borrow and how you plan to spend it. You should also know your total worth, listing your assets and liabilities. 6. Have a plan Lenders like to see a business plan that shows that you know what you want to achieve and have a clear idea of how you can achieve it. 7. Provide more than one exit strategy Lenders want to know how they’re going to get their money back and some want up to three scenarios for what is called the ‘exit strategy’. Wealthwiz can help clients with finance to unlock equity from unencumbered equipment for use within their business. Vehicle and equipment finance to upgrade your business fleet of vehicles. Sale & leaseback is a great alternative when looking to raise funds for stock purchases, working capital and one off expenses. To give your business a good chance of success, talk to Alex (0419 600 177) an MFAA accredited finance broker about finding the right commercial financing options for you.

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edbank Communities is continuing to deliver growth opportunities and community infrastructure in North Richmond with the first sod turned on the new Village Centre recently and its Home Display Village opened on Saturday 24 October. The Hon Scott Farlow MLC, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer and for COVID Recovery (representing the Treasurer Domenic Perrottet MP), Robyn Preston MP, Hawkesbury Mayor Patrick Conolly, and Redbank Communities Mark Regent and Jock Douglas toured the new Display Village and spoke with builders about housing, the growth of north-west Sydney and the contribution construction and infrastructure make to the State and local economies. On completion, the value of the Redbank North Richmond project will be in excess of $1.2 billion and is forecast to provide housing choices for around 3,900 additional residents over the next 8 years. This is supported by State, Federal and developer contributions to road and infrastructure totalling over $373 million. Redbank North Richmond currently has 912 DA approved blocks out of a total 1399 blocks and has sold over 600 blocks to date. 462 homes have been completed or are currently under construction NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said: “The Redbank North Richmond community will not only deliver new housing and infrastructure in a growing region but will also boost jobs at a critical time in the State’s economic recovery from the pandemic.” This next stage will provide more housing options in North Richmond helping people find their dream home as the NSW Government continues its major investment in Western

Sydney building better road and rail connections throughout the region and creating jobs through major projects such as the new Western Sydney Airport.” These sentiments were echoed by Scott Farlow MLC who toured the Redbank site recently: “The only way to keep our economy moving and create new jobs is to build, and keep building. The Redbank North Richmond community is an excellent example of new housing and infrastructure construction which boosts the State economy and importantly creates jobs, jobs, and more jobs” Mr. Farlow said. Said Mark Regent, Project Director of Redbank North Richmond: “Redbank’s point of difference in the Sydney market is we have average block sizes of 650sqm - offering unparalleled views of heritage protected parklands and water bodies. There is a commitment to best practice, significant lifestyle gains for residents, and the building of legacy community programs which will enrich the lives of those who live here’, he said. The masterplan includes RSL Lifecare’s Ron Middleton VC Gardens - a best-in-class 80 bed high-care nursing home and retirement village built by Redbank Communities in conjunction with the RSL which opened in 2014. Hawkesbury MP Robyn Preston said following her visit: “Housing

CROSSWORD

construction is one of the best ways to provide local jobs for many trades and to stimulate the local economy, so this project is especially important given the economic challenges we are facing. There are plenty of large lots for families to build quality homes on, with room to entertain and play in the backyard. Hawkesbury is one of the best places in NSW to raise a family and enjoy the open space and natural beauty on offer. This project is attracting a lot of interest from residents nearby and beyond and I am not surprised. It’s a growing community with a nurturing village environment.” The news is not just good for future homebuyers – the local and state economies are already boosted by the Redbank North Richmond masterplanned community, which creates 570 jobs in construction each year. Once established it is estimated that the residential community will contribute $473 million to the local economy. Hawkesbury Mayor Patrick Conolly said, “I would like to congratulate Redbank Communities on the launch of Redbank North Richmond’s Display Home precinct. I am told that four Australian building companies will open their latest home designs to potential residents of the Hawkesbury region and promote new house and land

ACROSS 1 Promiscuous (8) 5 Glue (6) 9 Trains (8) 10 Shoot for (6) 12 The official language of Iceland (9) 13 Type of heron (5) 14 A Freudian stage (4) 16 Slouched (7) 19 Pamphlet (7) 21 Sleigh (4) 24 Twenty-seven in Roman numerals (5) 25 Head of a school (9) 27 Head honcho (6) 28 Stranded (8) 29 Most aged (6) 30 Miscalled (8) down 1 Part of Yugoslavia (6) 2 Combined (6) 3 Latin for “Earth” (5)

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packages’, he said. To date Redbank has seen over $260 million in land sales. “The importance of land releases in outer suburbs and the opportunity for people to live where they know and work and perhaps grew up cannot be undervalued. The numbers are showing us that 40% of our buyers have come from the Hawkesbury, Blacktown, the Hills and Penrith are our next biggest catchments with 16% each”, said Mr Regent. Only last week a further 254 housing sites were DA approved and the first stage will be made available for sale on Saturday 24 October. Construction has also commenced on the Redbank Village Centre, which is set to see stage one completed in 2022. The village will provide convenient food, lifestyle and shopping experiences for residents and the wider community. A café/restaurant forms part of the first stage of construction alongside a children’s playground and other greenspace works. “The 254 lots scheduled for release within in the next year will, I am sure help to boost our economy. This is something that we are all striving to do, given what we have all faced during 2020,” the Mayor said. “Equally, the Redbank Village Centre will be a welcome boost for the Hawkesbury and for the 1000 local residents who live at Redbank” said the Mayor.

A disgraceful event (7) Low esteem (9) An engraved inscription (8) Late afternoon to dusk (8) Expert flyers (4) Cancels (9) Pliable (8) Scavenged (8) Be an alcoholic (4) Hunting guide (7) Name derived from the name of a person (6) Having a flat piece with a sharp edge (6) Diadem (5)

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

New housing and infrastructure in a growing region

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

WW1 Soldier Settlement at “Lenore” Estate By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

“Lenore” was situated at Erskine Park and was land owned by Andrew Thompson, St Marys’ Master Tanner and dairy farmer with a herd of over 100 milking cows. Erskine Park was originally part of James Erskine’s 3,000-acre property granted in 1818. When Andrew bought the Lenore property in 1898 he knew there was gravel beneath the surface. This gravel would have made the ground hardly suitable for farming. Andrew died in 1918 and during the 20th century the estate was acquired by the Crown and divided into a number of farms as part of the “Closer Settlement Initiative”. Each Australian State Government realised the importance of providing a source of income for returning soldiers after the war, as well as to recognise the personal and family sacrifices made by them. The NSW Government introduced the Returned Soldiers Settlement Act in 1916. Soldiers were eligible to apply for Crown Lands if they had served overseas with the Australian Imperial Forces or with the British Defence Service. The soldiers also needed to have been honourably discharged to be eligible. Land was available to the soldiers on affordable terms and they could also receive advances of money to make improvements to the land that was often in poor condition. They could also use the money for equipment, plants, stock and seeds. Soldiers who had received smaller blocks of land often experienced significant hardships. The Returned Soldiers Settlement Act 1916 was amended in 1917 to allow other soldiers who were eligible to apply for Crown Lands but did not serve overseas. In 1919 portions of Erskine Park were surveyed and the land once belonging to Andrew became the Lenore Estate and subdivided. In 1920 the “Lenore estate” was resumed for the “Closer Settlement scheme” and from 1920 onwards several returned soldiers applied for farms on the Estate. Some were refused, some received properties but ended up forfeiting their claims, while others farmed their properties. The Lenore subdivision represents the first major change in the pattern of land ownership within the Penrith area. This settlement program was where the land was resumed, subdivided into small holdings then sold back to selectors by the Government or the World War One returned soldiers who could purchase the land on generous terms. The subdivisions were designed so that the settlers could quickly establish themselves as mixed or dairy farmers who utilized the existing infrastructure. The subdivisions on this estate did not follow the pre-existing boundaries but they were configured to incorporate existing outbuildings and dwellings from the Thompson dairy that accounted for some odd-shaped allotments. One soldier was Walter Neill Mitchell who took up an allotment. Walter was born at Ayr in Scotland and was thought to come to Australia in 1912 on the “Orsova.” He later enlisted into the Australian Naval & Military Expedition Force in October 1915, (calling himself a Dairy Expert) and already 44 years old. He was sent to Rabaul in Papua New Guinea as a dental orderly with the Australian Medical Corps and was there until November 1916 with the 4th Tropical Force “A” Company. He returned to Australia and was admitted to the No.6 Australian General Hospital until February 1917 when he was discharged medically unfit. After a year past, in May 1918 he enlisted at Enoggera into the A.I.F. Walter (now claiming a Manager of a cheese factory) embarked from Sydney in June 1918 overseas to the No.

3 Sea Transport Section, arriving in London into the Australian Medical Corps training camp. Walter returned to Australia via the “Runic” in November 1918 and was discharged in December. In 1919 he was working at the dental surgery at the Enoggera Military camp and later that year moved to St Marys to take up a settlement on the “Lenore” estate. Walter never married and died in St Marys in April 1936. In the Daily Telegraph his funeral information said:- The funeral of the late Walter Neill Mitchell, late of St Marys and the A.I.F. will leave the Chapel on the corner of Orchard Road & Brown Street at Chatswood for the Presbyterian Cemetery, Northern Suburbs. He was cremated at Macquarie Park Crematorium. In the Nepean Times in May 1936 advertised the following:- In the Supreme Court of New South Wales Probate Jurisdiction. The Will of Walter Neill Mitchell late of St Marys in the State of New South Wales, farmer deceased. Application will be made after fourteen days from the publication hereof that Probate of the last Will of the above named deceased may be granted to Henry Charles Hoyer the Executor named in the said Will and all creditors in the said Estate are hereby required to send in particulars of their claims to the undersigned and all notices may be served at the offices of the undersigned. A. S. LAMROCK, Proctor for the said Executor, Penrith. Probate was issued in February 1937. Henry took over Walter’s farm at Lenore with his wife Olive May. Henry then applied for a license for a dam on an un-named watercourse in the Parish of Melville-county of Cumberland for conservation of water for stock. A Statutory Declaration in 1962 from Henry stated for 30 years prior to 1951 the lands enclosed by the fence were used by Thomas Baker and other members of his family (who were the owners and resided at the properties) for grazing purposes and no other person had access to the land for the purpose of watering stock or any other purpose as such access was effectively prevented by the fence. Henry died in 1965. Other owners of the Lenore settlement were Arthur Renwick Poolman who had a cottage on his property and owned more than one farm. He died in 1987. Andrew Doonside Fleming had a cottage on the east side of Arthur’s farm. By 1939 farms owned by Arthur Poolman were transferred to Arthur Henry Stockman. In 1940 some of the areas were gazetted and resumed for the Warragamba to Prospect pipeline and in 1950 a farm was purchased by Harrie Davis. In 1953 Harrie sold to Colin Stockman. This now suggested that the whole of the area was owned by the Stockman family in the 1950s. Their properties were then sold to the Austral Brick Company in the early 1960s. The photo is a typical type of a simple house built on the settler’s site. Sources: Historical Archaeological Assessment and Heritage Management Strategy prepared by Australian Museum Business Services for Goodman International Limited, Closer Settlement and Returned Soldiers Transfer files at NSW State Archives, Australian Electoral Rolls, Family Search (Mormon’s site), Government Gazette of NSW – June 1950, WATER ACT, 1912-1946, From Research-Data Western Sydney edu.au online, Ancestry online, BDM online.

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

he Australian PGA Seniors Championship will remain at Richmond Golf Club until at least 2022, following a 2-year extension of the PGA Legends Tour’s successful partnership with the popular venue. First played at Richmond Golf Club in 2013, Australia’s marquee Senior’s tournament returned to the NSW layout in 2018, after a three-year absence, to provide players and spectators alike with some of the most thrilling tournament conclusions seen on the PGA Legends Tour in recent years. With additional support from new partner Bendigo Bank, players will now enjoy five consecutive years at the venue including the 2020 tournament, to be held from 5-7 November. Richmond Golf Club will host a star-studded field including former champions Peter Fowler, Mike Harwood and Peter O’Malley at the 2020 event, which Richmond Golf Club Operations Manager Craig Hodgesays said has been its most highly anticipated since Covid-19 restrictions began to lift. “We absolutely love holding this prestigious event at Richmond,” said Mr Hodgesays. “It’s certainly the highlight of our calendar and we’re proud to have secured the rights for another two years.” “The course is looking fantastic and definitely fit for a Legend.” “The greens are running fast and true and we can’t fault the work of our green keepers.” “It’s outstanding given we had catastrophic bushfires and flooding in the Hawkesbury (District) earlier in the year,” said Mr Hodgesays. “We are thrilled by the calibre of

2019 Champion Peter Senior (Qld) tees off on the 1st hole at Richmond GC. Photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

players who are coming next month, considering the uncertainty COVID-19 restrictions have posed. We’re ready and geared up for a fantastic, CovidSAFE 2020 event.” PGA of Australia Legends Tour Coordinator Andy Rogers believes the Australian PGA Seniors Championship will provide a fitting conclusion to a swing of events played in the Blue Mountains from October 29, including the 2020 Springwood CC Legends ProAm and ICF Haulage ‘Legends ProAm’. “It’s great to see that the Championship will remain at Richmond for another two years,” said Mr Rogers. “The club (Richmond GC) has been a fantastic supporter and we are pleased we are able to provide those Professionals able to attend with a great playing opportunity such as this in 2020,” said Mr Rogers. “We have seen some exciting and memorable golf played here over the last few years.” “Rodger Davis winning a playoff against Peter Senior and Mike Harwood in 2015 stands out, while Michael Long and # Peter Senior’s respective wins over the last 2 years have been just as exciting.” “I’m sure there’s plenty more to come,” said Mr Rogers. The Australian PGA Seniors Championship will be played for $50,000 in 2020. # 2019 champion Peter Senior shot a final round score of 5-under par 65, which was not only one of the best scores of the day but also elevated the Queenslander to a winning total of 9-under par, just 1 shot ahead of Peter O’Malley and Peter Fowler in equal 2nd, with Peter Lonard and 2018 winner Michael Long finishing in a tie for 4th postion.

Blacktown City Council venue extends support of local athletes

he Western Sydney Academy of Sport is excited to announce that Blacktown City Council has extended its wonderful support of the Academy for a further two years. Council’s support of the Academy is delivered through Blacktown Venue Management which oversees the operations of Council’s aquatic and leisure centres as well as Blacktown International Sportspark. The Academy’s talented young athletes will be able to access the world-class sporting facilities at the Blacktown International Sportspark – both on the field and in the venue’s meeting rooms which provide a highquality environment for our athletes education seminars. The Sportspark was constructed for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and will soon enhance its extensive sports offering with the construction of the International Centre for Training Excellence – the ICTE.

This facility will bring together the best in sports education, sports science, sports medicine, rehabilitation prevention and

recovery. In partnership with the Australian Catholic University and Sydney West Sports Medicine, the ICTE will be truly world-class.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM welcomed the continued partnership with Western Sydney Academy of Sport “Council is committed to supporting all levels of sporting participation from junior to elite level. Council is also committed to supporting the Western Sydney Academy of Sport and ensuring they have the best possible facilities made available to their athletes.” Mayor Bleasdale said. Academy CEO Martin Bullock expressed his appreciation of Blacktown Venue Management and Blacktown City Council’s support for the Academy, stating “We have been extremely fortunate to be provided with access to the high standard of sporting facilities that Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney offers and we are very much looking forward to the magnificent development that will be taking place in the future”.

Western News 30 October 2020 Issue 121

Australian PGA Seniors Locks In Richmond

Western News Friday, 30 October 2020

SPORT

ANSA African Cup NSW and Wanderers partnership announcement

he ANSA African Cup NSW (African Cup NSW) recently announced a new partnership with the Western Sydney Wanderers FC (WSW) for the 2020 African Cup NSW. The partnership will see the African Cup NSW finding a home at the WSW’s world class Centre of Football and the two organisations working together to provide opportunities for youth players and African Cup NSW coaches. Entering its 21st year, the ANSA African Cup NSW has been a tournament where African-Australian youth have showcased their football talents and the African-Australian community has come together to celebrate a shared heritage. Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said he was proud to be partnering with such an important event in the community. “The African Cup has provided great opportunities for players of all ages to come together to celebrate their cultural and play the beautiful game,” said Tsatsimas. “We are honoured to have the ANSA African Cup NSW as the first official event at our Centre of Football and look forward to building on our partnership in years to come.” ANSA African Cup NSW Committee President, Bernard Muchemwa said he was delighted to welcome the Western Sydney Wanderers on board as a partner of the long running tournament. “With the work undertaken by the Western Sydney Wanderers in the Western Sydney region, it is evident that we have many shared values,” Mr Muchemwa said. “This partnership allows us to continue to build

on the focus of tournament; celebrating the vibrant African heritage through football. “Community building and providing opportunities is of importance to both organisations and we look to work to develop this into a long and successful partnership.”

While COVID has necessitated some changes to the competition structure for 2020, details on the dates will be released shortly. Learn more about the African Cup NSW can visit https://africancupnsw.com and follow the tournament on Instagram.

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