The Lottery Office Outback Air Race (OAR) has been flown and won and the biggest winner has been the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), with an amazing $750,000 raised by the race participants.
Local pilot Paul Robertson (Grumble Bum), from Rouse Hill, and his flying buddies Whitney Rousham (Top Bum) from Glenmore Park and photographer Bill Tomlin (Bum Lens), who comprise the team ‘Beech Bums’, finished the race in 20th position overall in their Beechcraft Bonanza A36 (Bonnie) but were still very happy with the result.
“Overall race winners were ‘The Wacky Warbos’ (Ian and Connie Warburton) from ACT,” said Whitney.
“We (Beech Bums) were pretty happy with our result, as we weren’t too keen to get down low and slow over the start and finish gates for each race leg. The weather for much of the trip was windy, with broken cloud and pockets of rain and storms presenting challenges for visual flight operations, which often had us above the cloud tops allowing only limited views of the ground beneath. Our times between start and finish gates were quite accurate however, usually within 1 minute of expected times.
“As a round trip departing and arriving back in Bankstown Airport, we flew a total of 7,900km’s, our total flying time was 31.7 hrs, with an average ground speed of 247kmph.
“There were 34 aircraft and 80 people participating in the race, including one team of 4 from New Zealand who flew across in their aircraft. Its callsign was ZK-RAT, so they were collectively known as “the RAT pack”, even though their team name was Kiwi Party Bus.
“Another notable entry were the ‘Black Opals’ from Perth, flying
a vintage 1941 Boeing Stearman biplane. This team had a second much more modern aeroplane flying along on the trip to carry essential oil supplies and spare parts to keep the old Boeing going.
“Notably we did win some prizes,” said Whitney.
Mostly for photography and videography, and for an original bit of
bush poetry that we constructed about the mascots each team had to carry in their plane. Our mascot was a little green furry crocodile we called Bycha.
“Bycha Bum was renowned amongst all the other mascots for the antics and mischief he got up to (and as a result he copped a few fines as well, which then become donations to the RFDS).
“Most notably, the OAR exceeded its RFDS fund raising target of $600,000. At the Grand Finale Dinner in Coffs Harbour on the final night of the event, the OAR22 Committee presented a cheque for $750,000 to RFDS representatives.
“Beech Bums raised over $10,000, with some small amounts still trickling in. We would like to especially thank Campsie RSL Group, ATS Awnings & Additions Penrith, Envirosure Pest Control Penrith, The Craft Company Warrimoo, HJR Lighting Penrith and NP Aviation Bankstown for their support, as well as many other family, friends and acquaintances whom we muscled for their generous donations.”
By Noel Rowsell Photos from The Lottery Office Outback Air Race. Photos suppliedHouseHolds are being reminded these school holidays to use any outstanding stay NsW and Parents NsW vouchers, with new figures revealing the programs have collectively added hundreds of millions of dollars to the state’s economy.
Minister for Customer service and digital Government Victor dominello said the vouchers have provided hip pocket relief to families across NSW, helping boost their budget, with both programs set to expire on 9 October 2022.
“The people of NSW have warmly embraced both the stay and Parent voucher programs, with almost $282 million injected into the state’s economy since their inception,” Mr dominello said.
“Whether you want to book a weekend away to the coast or a rural area or take the kids to a movie or wildlife park, the school holidays are an opportune time for people to spend their vouchers. don’t miss out – with only two weeks left, use them or lose them.
“The vouchers are a win-win. They provide a boost to household budgets as well as providing much needed stimulus for local businesses,
with the average spend tracking well above $100 when they redeem a $50 voucher for both programs.”
There are around $74 million worth of stay NsW vouchers issued, pending redemption, to date.
These vouchers help support accommodation providers in NSW impacted by COVID-19. NSW residents aged 18 and older can apply for one $50 voucher to use towards
the cost of accommodation bookings.
There are around $63 million worth of Parents NsW vouchers issued, pending redemption, to date.
The NsW Government launched these vouchers to reward and thank eligible NsW households for their efforts to support learning from home in 2021. One person from each eligible household can apply for five $50 vouchers, worth $250 in total.
NsW Government Vouchers are non-transferable and can only be redeemed by the customer who was issued the voucher. They cannot be used as a gift or donation to a registered business and cannot be exchanged for cash or gift vouchers.
For more information visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/staynsw and www.service.nsw.gov.au/ parents-nsw-vouchers
Kerrie Davies 0422
Bart Bassett 0412 955
Bart Bassett 0412 955 745
Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777
Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202
Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893
Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com
There’s so much excitement in the air at the moment; it is NrL Grand Final week!
There’s a couple of reasons why the buzz is so much bigger for this year’s Grand Final - one major reason is that footy fans watched last year’s big game from their loungerooms in lock down.
Perhaps an even bigger reason for the vibe around town is that it is literally The ultimate Battle of West, between Penrith and Parramatta with the winners taking out the 2022 Premiership. That’s the biggest prize that’s ever been on offer in a game between the two renowned rivals.
Our fanbase area looks to be pretty evenly split - we have die-hard Parra fans and we have hard-core Panther fans. We have fans of other teams who’ve jumped on the Panthers super-bandwagon. Fans of other clubs who’ve latched on to Parra in the hope to see them realise the dream that has been out of reach for seemingly forever. And we have those who aren’t footy fans at all - getting caught up in the fanfare of it all.
You don’t have to look far to see team colours - Panther footy merch is a pretty popular attire right now, and there are plenty of homes and cars decked out in the Blue and Yellow supporting the eels.
how good is it that the nation-wide footy fan following will be focussed entirely on western sydney this year? Penrith and Parra. The two teams located in the beating heart of western sydney. It has been great to see our local area showcased on TV, radio, social media and in newspapers for all the good reasons.
The greatest sportsmen in the country hail from Mount Druitt, st Marys, Penrith and Blacktown - and they are putting us on the map!
I hope everyone enjoys the game this weekend, may the best team win!
Personally I’m hoping that’s Panthers!
The Women’s health Clinic team at Blacktown hospital has achieved impressive referral and enrolments to the NSW Government service Get healthy in Pregnancy (GhiP).
Between July 2021 and 30 June 2022, Blacktown hospital referred 950 women to GhiP and of those, 539 commenced coaching services with a trained health coach to support them with healthy lifestyle goals and sustaining improvements in healthy eating, physical activity, and healthy weight during pregnancy.
GhiP is a free phone-based health coaching program for pregnant women which supports staying healthy from pregnancy to birth and beyond. Coaching and advice is provided by professional dietitians, exercise physiologists, sports scientists, psychologists and nurses.
The program has operated since 2015 and in that time has helped approximately 2,900 people in western Sydney.
Blacktown Mount Druitt hospital
Women’s and Children’s health operations nurse manager, helen Konowec is not surprised by the successful participation rates and credits this to the dedicated midwives who care about the health and wellbeing of pregnant women.
“This is a fantastic achievement by the midwifery staff in helping mums and babies with their long-term health and wellbeing,” said helen.
Blacktown hospital registered midwife, Jeanette Davies, echoed helen’s comment and said, “The team at Blacktown hospital are committed to improving health outcomes of our pregnant women, not only in the antenatal period but long term too.”
“Friendly, informative, lovely, nonjudgemental, inviting and welcoming are some of the words used to describe the coaching team behind the GhiP program,” she said.
“The team gets to know the mum over several calls, which can be up to 10 or more, and can help them to reach their own personal healthy lifestyle goals.”
By KeRRI e DAVI e S the process, saying she owed them her life.
MP Prue Car has returned to work following kidney cancer treatment and an operation.
Ms Car took leave in July when a tumour was discovered on her kidney. she spoke highly of the health professionals who helped her through
“it is so great to be back with Chris Minns and the team, fighting for the people of NsW,” Ms Car added.
“Thank you so much for the lovely messages of support i have received from across our community as i returned to work.
“i wasted no time getting back into it, speaking to Lachlan Kennedy from 10 News First about our amazing
health care professionals and my experience throughout my cancer treatment.
“if you are experiencing any worrying symptoms, i urge you to see your doctor sooner rather than later.
“it could save your life.”
With the state election just months away (March 2023) Prue has hit the ground running and is encouraging anyone in the electorate to contact her if she can be of assistance in any way.
Hiro’s mental health journey began when she was 15 years old.
After experiencing negative life events that led to an eating disorder, Hiro spent several years going in and out of hospital due to her “mental health challenges”.
it was at this point that she was introduced to the Western sydney Local Health District (WsLHD) Perinatal, Child and Youth Mental Health service (PCYMHs). PCYMHs provide services to children, adolescents and their families with a range of difficulties, which help improve their mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Hiro shares with us her personal mental health journey, experience with PCYMHs and wants everyone to know that “you are not alone”.
“My personal mental health journey
has been like that of many, with its ups and downs.
“i’ve met some amazing people who are passionate in helping improve the lives of others and although i had times when i didn’t engage, especially during my lowest points, i’m forever grateful for these people for never giving up on me.
“When you’re not in a good place, it can be hard to ask for help or accept that you aren’t alone. But you are not alone. There are so many services and support persons out there who want the best for you and who want to help you live a life of meaning and hope.
“i’m proud of how far i have come, what i have achieved and that i’ve been able to recognise that my perseverance toward recovery has really paid off.
“i would like to say thank you to the staff and services who have helped me on my recovery journey. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for encouraging me. Thank you for helping me become the person i am today. You have helped me become capable and confident in managing my mental health, something i wouldn’t have thought possible all
those years ago.”
Hiro wants everyone to know that they are not alone and there are many great services out there to help those who need it.
“if you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or situational distress, WsLHD has a great service, safe Haven located at 26 Grand Avenue Westmead. The service is open from sunday to Wednesday, 3:30pm –9:30pm. No referrals or appointments are needed and its completely free. The service is open to people of all ages.
“The service is co-designed by people with a lived experience and supported by peer workers who are there to listen to you, support you and provide compassionate nonjudgemental care.
“You are not alone.”
PLANNiNG for two new public schools in sydney’s North West continues with State Significant Development (ssD) applications now lodged for a new primary school in Melonba and a new high school serving Marsden Park and Melonba.
Member for riverstone Kevin Conolly welcomed this important milestone and said it was part of the ongoing investment in public education infrastructure in the growing North West region.
“The NsW Liberals and Nationals Government continues to invest in school building projects across our community and i am pleased to see plans lodged for the new high school and primary school,” Mr Conolly said.
Minister for Education sarah Mitchell said the projects will ensure that the longer-term need for local schools in the area will be met.
“i am pleased the planning process is well
underway and look forward to receiving community feedback. i know many locals share my excitement and will be eager to learn more and to share their views,” Ms Mitchell said.
“The two schools have been designed to coexist, with the site layout locating the school buildings around the perimeter of the site, creating a protected educational campus with canteens, halls and sports fields located at the centre for flexible use.”
The projects will deliver flexible learning spaces for up to 2,000 high school students and up to 1,000 primary school students, including specialist classrooms and workshops, outdoor spaces with landscaped recreation areas, a playing field, sports courts and new multi-purpose halls for sports and performance. New libraries, canteen and administration facilities will also be delivered.
The new schools complement other recently delivered school projects in the area, including the new Northbourne Public school and the expansion of riverstone High school. Funding has been secured for a further expansion of Schofields Public school and riverbank Public school, an upgrade at rouse Hill High school, as well as a new primary school at Nirimba Fields. This is in addition to the works underway at Glenwood High school, John Palmer Public school and stage 2 of the new Galungara Public school.
The NsW Government is investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 160 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NsW. This builds on the more than $9.1 billion invested in projects delivered since 2017, a program of $17.7 billion in public education infrastructure.
THE members of the Country Women’s Association of NsW are actively engaged with improving conditions for women and children in NsW. Part of the focus of the social issues Committee of the CWA is gender equity, including maintenance of access to women’s health services. They are also campaigning on the causes and effects of domestic violence, as well as the issues of homelessness, dementia and aged care services.
Each year, the CWA of NsW funds an Australian medical research project. ovarian Cancer is the subject of the CWA
2022 Medical research Project. The project aims to provide further advancements in early diagnosis and better treatments of ovarian cancer.
Did you know that the CWA has branches in metropolitan areas? if you want to become part of this amazing organisation, go to the below website to find the branch closest to you. There is also a ‘virtual branch’ for people who find it hard to get to day or evening meetings. www.cwaofnsw.org.au/Web/BranchesGroups/Branch-Directory
Hiro and her daughterBLACKtOWn City Mayor tony Bleasdale OAM has welcomed one of the largest ever groups of new citizens at a super citizenship ceremony attended by almost 2,000 people.
nsW Labor Leader Chris Minns was a special guest at the mega ceremony, which saw 1,379 new Aussies receive their citizenship at Blacktown Leisure Centre, stanhope.
residents from 74 countries, from Afghanistan, to Botswana to samoa to Vietnam, pledged their allegiance to Australia surrounded by family and friends
Mayor Bleasdale congratulated the newest citizens on calling Blacktown City home: “As Mayor, it is always a great honour to witness our newest Aussies take one of the most significant steps of their lives right here in Blacktown City.
“Our new citizens come from around the world, and bring a wealth of cultural knowledge and experiences, helping build the multicultural fabric of our community.
“I was delighted to have Chris Minns attend and give a special welcome to all our new citizens, their families and friends.
“I wish these citizens all the very best as they embark on the next chapter of their lives in Australia.”
Close to 4,800 residents, including
Western sydney Local Health District’s (WsLHD) Youth Health team has placed six new Wellbeing and Health In-reach nurse (WHIn) coordinators in western sydney high schools.
As part of the commitment to improve the overall health of students in new south Wales (nsW) the program puts a Wellbeing nurse in identified secondary schools to provide ‘in-reach’ delivery to students and their families.
the six WHIns have gone into the following western sydney High schools: Greystanes High, Granville south Performing Arts, Chifley College Shalvey, Doonside technology High, Arthur Phillip High and Cumberland High.
the WHIns also support students from the primary schools that feed into these high schools.
One WHIn, who is based in the Granville school, Janet, has more than 100 young people and family members currently in her care and said, “being a WHIn is fun and I love that no single day at work is the same”.
Janet has been a nurse in WsLHD for more than 20 years and was “drawn to the WHIn role to help empower youth”.
Granville south Public school Principal, Karen Macphail, applauded
the WsLHD Youth Health initiative and said, “I just wanted to say thank you. I don’t know where you got Janet from, but she is truly an absolute angel. she is making such a phenomenal difference to the lives of some of our families”.
the Wellbeing nurses develop relationships with community-based services in their areas and liaise with their school’s wellbeing teachers and Learning support teams to provide wholistic care and support for the students and their families.
the WHIns provide students with health education across a wide range of pertinent topics including mental
health, sexual health and drug abuse. the team is currently working on delivering education sessions on the dangers of vaping.
When the WHIns were asked how the students at their schools will benefit from the program, better access to health services and improved health literacy was the resounding response.
the WHIns bring a wealth of experience with them and decades of expertise in working with young people.
Jenille was a Clinical nurse specialist & educator at sydney Children’s Hospital and also worked at the Acute Inpatient Child and
Adolescent Mental Health Unit.
At Arthur Phillip High she is actively involved in closing the gap between education and health.
sharon is based at Doonside technology High school and knows WsLHD incredibly well, having provided nursing to the community members for over 30 years.
she loves the team of WHIns she works with and said she’s “excited about working with a team of highly motivated nurses who love sharing resources and knowledge”.
Graeme Pringle, WsLHD’s Youth Health Coordinator, is excited about the program as it allows students and their families in WsLHD to access a well-being nurse for their health needs.
the WHIn Coordinator program started as a pilot in 2018 and is a partnership between nsW Health and the nsW Department of education.
Standing behind L to R – Yash Amarasekara / Janet Annor / Brenda Mwanza Sitting in front L to R – Jenille Mina / Sharon Albrecht / Wai (Zoe) ChengThe Well-being Nurse program is another way we provide young people access to appropriate health services to ensure they are able to participate in their education
Graeme Pringle “ “children, have sworn their allegiance to Australia at Blacktown City Council ceremonies so far this year. In July, Mayor Bleasdale welcomed an extraordinary 1,695 new citizens across 2 super citizenship ceremonies. Almost 1,400 new citizens pledged their allegiance to Australia at Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM welcomes Blacktown City’s newest citizens at a bumper ceremony. NSW Labor leader Chris Minns was a special guest at the ceremony.
rESEarCh projects covering Blacktown‘s links to the Boer War and the ‘inspirational firsts’ of colonial Blacktown have been jointly awarded the top prize in the 2022 Blacktown City Mayoral history Prize.
Local historians richard de Grijs and John horne were awarded first place in the adult category for this year’s prize at a special presentation ceremony at Max Webber Library, Blacktown.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OaM congratulated the historians on their winning entries.
“The Blacktown City Mayoral history Prize was established in 2008 to encourage a wider understanding of Blacktown City’s history through research, documentation and promotion,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“This year marks the 15th year of the prize, which celebrates the rich and diverse history of Blacktown City and its storytellers
“Entries in this year’s prize were diverse and covered topics that will provide a valuable contribution to our shared history and heritage.
“Thank you to the winners and everyone who submitted entries. i also thank members of the local historical societies and Prospect heritage Trust, as well as Blacktown City Libraries, for making this prize possible.”
richard and John will share in a $3000 cash prize for their entries, which are available on the Blacktown City Council website to view.
John’s passion for local history has seen him awarded the top prize on 3 occasions. he is currently president of the Blacktown and District historical Society.
“as an amateur historian, i’ve always loved history and have read history my whole life,” he said.
“i have a particular interest in military history and
have been thinking about doing a piece on the Boer War for some time.
“The Boer War was one of those conflicts that is often forgotten and overshadowed by the First World War, but there were at least 30 to 35 men who went off to the Boer War who had a connection to the Blacktown District.”
he encouraged future history prize entrants to research a topic they were passionate about.
“all history is local history – whether its alexander the Great or someone who opens a shop on Kildare road – there are so many hidden surprises in the Blacktown area,” he said.
“always write about what you are interested in. Blacktown Library and the local historical societies are a wonderful resource and are always happy to help.”
Judy Trembath was awarded a Certificate of Participation in the adult category for her entry on Walter Lamb – a politician and one of Blacktown’s first entrepreneurs - and his life at Woodstock homestead in Plumpton.
in the Years 7 to 9 category, alyssa neilson was awarded a Certificate of Commendation for her research piece titled:The history of Blacktown’s start of settlement and how it has evolved for the Blacktown we know today.
Mayor Bleasdale encouraged even more high school entries in the 2023 prize.
“The Mayoral history Prize provides a wonderful opportunity for local high school students to explore a piece of local history and develop their research and writing skills,” he said.
“There are $500 cash prizes on offer for the winners of the Years 7-9 and Years 10-12 categories, with $250 for the student and $250 for the school or community organisation.”
Entries in this year’s prize also included topics such as the life story of Maria Lock - a celebrated and proud Darug woman who was the first aboriginal woman to be granted land.
Entries may be included in Blacktown City Libraries’ local history collection for future researchers to access.
Briahna (Bri) auty has been working in Western Sydney Local health District (WSLhD) for eight years and is currently an administration officer for Therapy reception in Clinical Support, but most recently she’s taken centre stage on primetime reality television series Beauty and the Geek!
The show has recently wrapped up and gone to air in australia and Bri said she “feels a sense of relief that it is now out in the open”.
“I can finally talk about it with my family and friends. it has been so exciting and fun to watch.”
Bri came runner-up out of 10 couples on the show and was happy with the result.
“i went on the show for growth and to share my story. i wanted people to know why i am the way i am and that beauties go through things too and not just geeks. i couldn’t be more proud of myself and Christopher my geek. i couldn’t have done it without him,” she said.
The premise of the ‘Beauty and the Geek’ television series revolves around a group of “beauties” being paired up with “geeks” to compete
in challenges to survive eliminations each episode.
Bri loved the activities and said “the highlight of the show was “getting chucked in the deep end with all the crazy challenges we did”.
“i wouldn’t have done half the things otherwise and this included a stunt challenge, running a dog agility course, fighting knights and even abseiling off an 18-story building.”
She also enjoyed making lifelong friends and is still in touch with everyone from the show.
“We have a group chat with all the beauties and geeks and we have another big group chat with last year’s contestants as well,” Bri said. “We’re like one big family now. also, the host of the show Sophie Monk has added me on instagram and sends me messages every now and then to check in. She’s beautiful!”
Bri’s colleagues in WSLhD “couldn’t be prouder”.
“Every day i came to work we spoke about the episodes after they had aired” she said.
Bri’s life has changed a lot since appearing on the hit show with her saying“i have been much busier. My socials have popped off and i have had ample amounts of opportunities coming my way like event invites and big brands wanting to work alongside me.
if you visit Westmead hospital just be on the lookout.
“My mask hides my face the majority of the time but i have been stopped multiple times by patients and colleagues around the hospital asking ‘are you Bri from Beauty and the Geek?’ and it’s such a surreal feeling that people know who i am,” she said.
“Come say ‘hi’ if you ever run into me.”
I’m trying to juggle a fulltime job and life after Beauty and the Geek but it has changed my life for the better so I’m super grateful for everything that has come my way so far. Bri Auty
“Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM with Alyssa Neilson, John Horne and judge Miranda Routh at the 2022 Blacktown City Mayoral History Prize Presentation Ceremony.
The Access Artybald Prize exhibition is now on show at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.
The Access Artybald Prize is a portrait competition created in conjunction with the Art Gallery of New South Wales Archibald Prize, that recognises the work of artists with diverse abilities who live, work, or study in greater Western Sydney.
The exhibition opened in May at Ability Options’ Front Up Studios in Seven Hills, and toured to Wollongong Arts Centre before coming to The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, where it will be on show until 8 October.
Ability Options’ Front Up is a Western Sydney-based Arts and Cultural program, providing a vibrant and accessible studio space, workshops, and professional development opportunities for artists with a disability, including those experiencing a mental health condition.
Coinciding with the exhibition is the display on the windows of the nearby Max Webber Library of 4 large public art works, commissioned from artists featured in The Access Artybald Prize exhibition, titled Artybald in the City.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said he was delighted to celebrate artists of diverse talents in Blacktown City.
“Blacktown City Council, through Blacktown Arts, is proud to support The Access Artybald Prize and celebrate the talents, skills and abilities of artists with disability,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Art is a wonderful form of self-expression for people who may live with disability or mental illness, and this exhibition and the temporary artworks are fabulous acknowledgements of their talents.
“I encourage everyone to come along to The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre and see the amazing works these talented artists have created.”
The Artybald Access Prize exhibition comprises thirty-four artworks, including works by:
Taylor Devlin (Winner)
Miah Tito-Barratt (Highly Commended)
Tim Martin (Highly Commended)
Brendan Abarca (Commended)
Chris Whiticker (Commended)
Digby Webster (Commended)
Ebony Wightman (Commended)
Harry J Dogra (Commended)
Linda Ogonowski (Commended)
Works by Brendan Abarca, Ebony Wightman,
Renae Curran, and Renée Allara will adorn the windows of the Max Webber Library until Sunday, 4 December 2022.
With an emphasis on local artistic practices and on equitable access and inclusion, Artybald in the City also reflects Blacktown Arts’ commitment to community engagement and connection through creative practice.
Both the exhibition at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre and the 4 public art commissions have been facilitated by Blacktown Arts in collaboration with Ability Options’ Front Up Studios.
The Artybald Access Prize exhibition features works such as ‘What is behind the Mask?’ by Renae Curran (left) and ‘A Person of Note’ by Ebony Wightman (right).
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
Charles William Cunningham was born at emu Plains in March 1876 to parents Thomas alexander & Martha Cunningham (lucas). Thomas married Martha in Penrith in 1873. Charles’s grandparents edward & elizabeth Cunningham (henning/edgar) came as assisted immigrants on the “elizabeth” in august 1841 with baby daughter Jane elizabeth born in 1840. edward was aged 26 and a labourer and roman Catholic, elizabeth aged 20 and a servant and a Protestant. Both could read and write. They moved to the Goulburn district where they held a freehold at Tarlo river and a leasehold at reedy Creek. It was on saturday the 29th of august in 1896 that their grandson Charles died peacefully at hawkesbury agricultural College hospital after a brief illness. his parents were both present at the time of his death. he was a student at the agricultural college for around 20 months and one of the best footballers and all-round athletes in the colony. A first-class musician, Charles was ever ready to use his talent in connection with religious, charitable and social functions and a general favourite everywhere, happy to use his clear bass voice in singing with the church choir as well as being their organist. he was also President of the Christian Union at the hawkesbury College, secretary of the Wesleyan sunday school at Camdenville in the Newtown circuit as well as their organist. Great gloom came over the hawkesbury agricultural College by the death of Charles. he was taken sick from work and the Doctor sent for. On the Doctor’s arrival and after a careful diagnosis, the cause of the trouble was inflammation of the lungs that continued for some time and pleurisy set in. Both these illnesses were fought bravely by Charles and by Dr’s helsham and Gibson, but after these were bought under control, Charles’s heart failed and proved too much for medical skill. Both Doctors were in constant attendance but the end came sunday morning about 8 o’clock. Charlie (as he was known to all) was a general favourite all through the College and town, especially among his fellow students. The faces of the students at different stages of his sickness was reported to show in what esteem Charles was held. When the result was considered serious, the whole place was plunged into grief, but when it was reported, as it was on several occasions, that Charles was better, there was a cheerful aspect everywhere. On Friday morning he was very low and everyone appeared to be discussing his case in a sorrowful manner, but on Friday evening a change, apparently for the better, so most of his friends had good hopes until saturday evening when he took ill again and never rallied. Charlie was looked upon as one of the strongest among the whole of the students and was foremost in almost every movement. his kind genial manner won friends everywhere. he was the best athlete in the College, if not the district, and would be missed in all sports and gatherings. Much sympathy was expressed towards
his parents in their sad bereavement. They were constantly by his side and the shock was a terrible one to them. Charlie was educated at Newington College and was one of the first students at the agricultural college. he was considered a very clever young man and had just completed his term and had entered on the last session for his diploma with the feeling that he would have carried it off with honour. he had just passed his twentieth birthday. The funeral took place on the Monday. The Principal of the college was greatly moved by the death of’ such a prominent student. all the students, staff and other friends assembled at the College hospital and a short service was held by Mr Glasson. reverend Dr Cameron also delivered a touching and appropriate address to those around. at about noon a start was made for emu Plains Cemetery, the College students in the charge of Mr Brooks and Mr Musson marched four deep in front of the hearse with about 85 vehicles following. When the procession reached the Wesleyan Cemetery at londonderry there was another crowd and the students opened out and the hearse passed between them then reverend J Tarn conducted the service according to the rites of the Wesleyan Church. a number of the town friends then turned homewards and among those remaining were the relatives of Charles, the Principal and college students. Then on the road towards Penrith several other friends and relatives of the family joined in until there were about 40 vehicles and the funeral carried on to st Paul’s emu Plains Church of england cemetery. On turning the corner opposite, Mr lucas, Charlie’s uncle from emu Plains and another party on foot joined in, including two cadet students from Newington college along with some relatives and friends. Messrs a&N Price of richmond and Penrith had charge of the funeral arrangements. Charles’s body was enclosed in a polished cedar coffin with silver mountings. Charlie’s parents were deeply affected as were a large number of the students and the Principal Mr Thompson. among the large number of lovely wreaths sent in, was one from the Principal, students at the College, the hawksbury football club, the science master, english master as well as one from Newington College and Penrith, st Marys, richmond and sydney friends. Charles’s father Thomas died in 1927 at Marrickville aged 82. his occupation was that of a retired grazier. his mother Martha died in 1943 and both are buried in the Methodist section of the emu Plains cemetery. Photo of the grave of Charles and his little brother arthur Charles who died aged 4 in august 1878, courtesy of Find a Grave website.
Sources: Nepean Times, New South Wales, Cemetery, Military, and Church Record Transcripts, 1816-1982, Ancestry website, Family Search (Mormon website), New South Wales Assisted Immigrant Passenger Lists 1828-1896, Electoral Roll 1842-1864.
Photo of the grave of Charles and his little brother Arthur Charles who died aged 4 in August 1878, courtesy of Find a Grave website.
The Reserve Bank of Australia raised interest rates for a fifth consecutive month, with more likely to come, bringing a gloomy end to the year for many homeowners.
The cost of mortgages has risen steeply, and while house prices everywhere are sinking as a result, borrowers are losing buying power.
The RBA has lifted its official cash rate from 0.1 % to 2.35 % since May which has increased monthly repayments on a typical $500,000 mortgage from 3.00% ($2,108/m) to 5.35% ($2,761/m) being an increase of by 24 %.
Finance researchers have suggested that even if house prices drop 15 per cent as widely forecast, the rate rises have made life tougher overall for firsthome buyers. That’s because lenders considering mortgage applications apply an assessment rate that is higher than the actual home loan rate for repayments, meaning a loan people could afford in May is now unaffordable in the lenders eyes.
Refinancing is becoming harder, especially for those who were stretched when they first got a loan when prices were near record highs.
The biggest hit for a large group of homeowners is still to come for the 30-40 per cent of customers who took out a fixed-rate loan in recent years at deeply
discounted rates near 2.5%.
Many fixed rate loans will switch back to variable rates in 2023, and won’t experience the gradual monthly increases the rest of the market has, instead they will be hit by a bus of $600-$1000 increase a month as their loan reverts to variable.
The time to react is now and be proactive to improve your battered borrowing power.
Try to clear personal loan and credit card debts, including unused credit card limits. “The repayments, even though they may be short term, will be debited against income in the bank’s assessment of the loan and will limit the amount that can be borrowed,” he said.
Workplaces have shifted radically in recent years as casual jobs boomed at the expense of permanent roles and long-term contracts.
However, employees have more bargaining power today amid record low unemployment, and may be able to switch to a permanent position that banks will look upon more favourably.
Lenders have varying criteria when it comes to contract work, but most in one way or another discount income when it is earned on short or
medium-term contracts. Negotiating with your employer to be employed long-term can make a big difference to affordability.
Bad habits picked up during the pandemic, such as ordering mountains of takeaway food, may need to be banished if you want more borrowing power. Lenders can look at all your spending, not just loan repayments.
Borrowers need to prove they can afford repayments, and unnecessary spending works against this.
Sometimes changing economic and market conditions mean people’s expectations have to change too.
Borrowers may need to think about buying a smaller home or a property further from the CBD to get a foot in the door. Or consider consolidating multiple debts into one larger, low-interest loan.
Refinancing or purchasing a property and you could end up with a homeloan which better suits your needs.
To get a better understanding contact Alex Soncini at Wealthwiz for a free home loan review on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.
Alex Soncini
The National Rugby League (NRL) has announced that Grand Final day featuring the historic “Battle of the West” NRL Grand Final between Penrith Panthers and Parramatta Eels and the NRLW Grand Final between Newcastle Knights and Parramatta Eels has sold out.
By Panthers MediaTHe last tickets were sold shortly after the final General Public allocation was released Tuesday.
With the matches now sold out, both Parramatta eels and Penrith Panthers will host live sites for members and fans who missed out on tickets to Grand Final day.
“The Grand final teams represent the beating heart of rugby league. Clubs that represent modern day Australia. Confident, vibrant and growing communities. Heartland areas that have more kids picking up a football for the first time than ever before.,” NRL CeO Andrew Abdo said.
“The demand for tickets has been overwhelming. I would like to thank rugby league fans for their loyalty and support.
‘There is much to look forward to this Sunday - a traditional rivalry that has never been played on the NRL Grand Final stage before and an NRLW Grand Final between two teams in just their second Premiership seasons. History will be made.
“We are delighted that Clubs will be celebrating community based live sites for fans.”
Gates will open at Accor Stadium at 1.00pm. Fans are encouraged to use public transport with free public transport (via integrated ticketing) for the event at Accor Stadium.
Fans are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early and enjoy the NRL State Championship Grand Final between Penrith Panthers and Norths Devils at 1.20pm, the NRL Women’s Telstra Premiership Grand Final at 3.55pm as well as local venues, pubs, restaurants and local parklands.
The NRLW Grand Final will also be honoured with its own Pre-Game show as powerhouse soul and blues vocalist, Mahalia Barnes, Western Sydney’s new queen of hip-hop and RnB, A.GIRL, and emma Donovan team up to deliver a re-imagining of iconic Aussie classic, “The Real Thing”.
The NRL Grand Final Pre-Game Show will be headlined by the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll, Jimmy Barnes with friends including ARIA-winning singer-songwriters, the mighty Diesel and special guest Josh Teskey, alongside award-winning Indigenous singer-songwriter emma Donovan.
eurovision 2022 star Sheldon Riley and Australian hip-hop legends Bliss n
eso (featuring JOY.) will also perform.
Parramatta eels and Penrith Panthers will be holding exclusive Live Site events for Club Members who have missed out on securing a ticket to the NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final.
NRL Fan Fest will also launch tomorrow (Wednesday) in Martin Place, and operate until Friday between 9am and 4.30pm each day. The NRL teams will feature at 12pm on Thursday and NRLW teams at 12pm on Friday. There will be several activations and give-aways for fans.
The NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final is proudly supported by the NSW Government through Destination New South Wales.
Getting to the Grand Final
• From Central, express train services will run every 15 minutes between 1pm and 2pm, then every 10 minutes from 2pm.
• From Penrith, limited-stop train services will run every 15 minutes from 1pm.
Sydney Olympic Park Major event Buses will run on all 9 routes from the Hills District, Inner West, North Western Suburbs, Northern Beaches, Southerland Shire and Southern Suburbs.
• To Central: express services will leave Olympic Park every 6 minutes from 9:30pm until 12:30am.
• To Blacktown: limited-stop services will leave Olympic Park every 6 minutes from 9:30pm until 1am, stopping at Lidcombe, Granville, Parramatta, Westmead, Seven Hills then Blacktown.
Summer sport registrations are officially open and families are being encouraged to take advantage of the State’s enormously successful Active Kids Voucher program, so children can get back to playing sport without breaking the family budget.
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said there is an exciting summer ahead and families are being reminded to use these excellent NSW Government cost-saving measures.
“Getting kids out of the house to be active is vitally important for health and wellbeing. Signing your child up for sports allows for them to make new friends, learn important skills and stay healthy,” Mr Henskens said.
“Whether it’s tennis, dance, cricket
or nippers there are over 11,000 Active Kids providers across the State, so now is the perfect time to download your voucher and register your child in their favourite sport or active recreation activity.”
School-enrolled children in NSW can access two $100 Active Kids vouchers each year towards the cost
of sport and active recreation fees.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said NSW families have embraced the Active Kids program, and it is one of more than 70 Government savings to help ease cost of living and boost household budgets.
“We are improving the application
and redemption process for parents and providers, with a digital version of the voucher on the Service NSW app now available,” Mr Dominello said.
“Active Kids has been an overwhelming success, with almost 100 per cent of parents giving it the thumbs up.”
Cricket NSW CeO Lee Germon said the program offered greater opportunities for kids to play sport.
“Our Cricket NSW purpose is to inspire everyone to play and love cricket and the Active Kids Voucher program makes it easier for families to do that,” Mr Germon said.
“Anything we can do to provide greater access to the game is a positive, particularly in that 5-12 year old age group that we are focused on, so our thanks go to the NSW Government for this program.”
Following the Championship run of the Men and historic first season for the Women, Blacktown City FC held their awards night at Club Sponsor, Blacktown workers Club. The night was a gala evening of celebration that included Blacktown City’s newest award, the Matt lewis medal. 2022 was the first year of Senior competition for Blacktown women and the night was shared equally by both the Men and women in testament to the ‘onE’ Club policy for the organisation moving forward.
The inclusion of the women added a different look to the traditional Awards night which was a first for the 70 year old club. The night featured the Senior Men, Under 20 Men and Under 18 Men as well as the Senior Women and Under 20 Women. Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, led the proceedings and was ably backed up by first year Women’s Coach, David (Dok) O’Keefe.
Coach Crittenden was full of praise for his Men’s teams with the Senior Men winning the 2022 Championship and the Under 20 Men the Premiership at the end of the regular season. Mario Shabow was awarded the Players Player of the Year Award by his peers. Unfortunately, Mario accepted his award by Video as he was on his honeymoon. Travis Major was awarded the golden Boot for scoring his 100th goal for Blacktown City in the final minutes of the Championship winning game.
In another first for the Club, Coach Crittenden and former Blacktown City Chairman, Brett Seager, teamed up to institute the inaugural Matt lewis medal. Voted by the Coaching staff on a 3-2-1 basis for every regular season game, the vote went down to the last game with Adam Berry taking out the honours.
For the women, Dok O’Keefe was extremely proud of his first year team. Struggling in the early part of
the season, the Senior Women grew in confidence and stature to give some of the best teams in the competition a run for their money in the final months of the season. Coach O’Keefe is now busy recruiting for next season with the clubs overall goal to be playing in NPL 1 within three years. Goal Keeper and Co-Captain, Kiara Rochaix, was awarded the Players Player of the Year Award and led her team throughout the season.
The night before The Blacktown City Awards, Football NSW held their Annual Awards night. The entire Men’s team were on hand as the Champions
for 2022 and to witness Club veteran graham Crawhall be awarded the prestigious Charles Valentine Medal for services to Football nSw gC is a Hallmark to Football in NSW and a long standing manager of the Senior Men in partnership with Mark Crittenden. Blacktown City FC was awarded the Club Championship, and Head Coach Mark Crittenden was runner up in the Coach of the Year Award.
The Club is now preparing for the 2023 season with Memberships soon to go on sale and corporate partners being signed on a regular basis.
go Blacktown City!
Blacktown city Mayor tony Bleasdale oaM has celebrated a dedicated volunteer and stalwart of Riverstone little athletics, Vernon cross, by naming a field in his honour.
The athletics field at Riverstone Park was officially named Vernon Cross Field, in recognition of Vernon’s 40 years of service to the club.
Mayor Bleasdale said: “Vernon’s dedication can be traced back to the club’s founding season in 1982, when Vernon’s daughter first joined the club in the Under 8’s.
“It wasn’t long before Vernon put up his hand to create and maintain a record board for the club.
“around the same time, he was elected Championship Officer for zone, regional and state carnivals – a role he held until 2020.
“In 1987, he was elected club President and has held this role ever since. Two year later, the club awarded Vernon life membership, and the accolades have kept coming.
“In 2007, he was awarded Volunteer of the Year by athletics nSw, and
later, he received the Russel Magennis Award for Riverstone Schofields Sports Person of the Year.
“Just last year, the Voice of Sport nSw awarded Vernon a Distinguished Long Service Award, making him the first member in the state to receive such an award.
“But Vernon was never in it for the awards. He’s the definition of a true volunteer, driven by giving back to his community and making his local club the very best it can be.
“People like Vernon are the backbone
of our community – the volunteers who get on with the job without asking for praise or reward.
“they are the smiling face that greets everyone on club night, the mentor for up-and-comers, and the inspiration to all.”
During Vernon’s 40 years with the club, he has been committed to making sure the club had the very best facilities.
Vernon was integral in getting a new club house and equipment storage area, as well as upgraded long jump pits, discus and shot-put rings.
Vernon’s hard work also extends to Riverstone Schofields Memorial Club’s local sports council and Riverstone Park park committee.
“Vernon’s service is unique and it’s only fitting that this field be named in his honour,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
“Generations of runners, jumpers, throwers, hurdlers, and shot putters owe Vernon their thanks.”
the naming of Vernon cross Field was celebrated at an official unveiling last week, on the launch night of the little athletics season.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM and Blacktown City councillors with Vernon Cross and members of Riverstone Little Athletics.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM and councillors Moninder Singh, Julie Griffiths and Kushpinder Kaur with Vernon Cross.