Western News 3 August 2018

free

02 4587 7000

www.urbancityconsulting.com.au Hours: 8.30am – 5pm Our experience and knowledge enables us to provide our clients with the right advice and service for all their statutory building and development needs

Western News PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Friday, 3 August 2018

ISSUE 65

Follow Western News on facebook

Run and Won! The 2018 M7 Blacktown Running Festival attracted 800 participants including local, interstate and international runners. See page 5 for full story.

Lyn and Carolyn’s Guide to Retirement Living in Western Sydney Retirement Living is on the up and up in Western Sydney. So why are these villages attracting mature Australians in such great numbers? The benefits are plenty, from community to lifestyle and convenience and affordability, and here Lyn and Carolyn, with years of experience in the industry continue their answers to the frequently asked questions people have about buying into a village.

Navigating the contract When you’re considering retirement living, a clear understanding of contracts, costs and value is essential. You sign a contract when you buy a house or when you get a job – it’s no different when you move into a village – except that you also have to sign a resident contract, as you’re also buying into a community. Ask questions about everything, from long term costs, contract options and what happens when you move out. A buy into a retirement village means you get all the benefits of living in a low maintenance home, in a community of like-minded neighbours, at a similar stage of life.

Why not get a real taste for village living? Residents and our friendly village teams are our greatest advocates for gaining real insight into a retirement community. Call Lyn on 9636 9163 to visit our Pemulwuy village, Nelsons Grove, where brand new off the plan apartments are now selling.

Nelsonsgrove.com.au

Nelsons Grove

Artist’s impression

Convenient apartment living exclusively for over 55’s

Retire in style with a new and luxurious apartment in the heart of Pemulwuy.

• A safe and secure community only 10 minutes from Parramatta • Pemulwuy Marketplace, golf courses, parks and medical centres on your doorstep • A residents only clubhouse with an indoor pool, gym bar and more

FINAL STAGE SELLING FAST

Call today to book a private appointment, view floor plans, chat to the friendly sales team and view the resort facilities. With new contract options now available it’s the perfect time to find your new home.

Call 9636 9163 or visit nelsonsgrove.com.au Information about the services and facilities provided in the village is correct at the time of printing but may change as the needs of residents change.

Photographs are for illustrative purposes. Some images may depict items not provided by Lendlease within the units such as furniture and other decorative items. June 2018. Published by Lendlease RL Realty (NSW) Pty Ltd ABN 27 138 535 823.

Western News

B

lacktown City Council’s inaugural Fresh Food Fair was a huge success with over five thousand people passing through the Village Green in Blacktown.

The Village Green was transformed into a farmer’s wonderland where residents could grab fresh produce and support our farming community. At a time when drought is causing hardship throughout NSW and other states it is a time to reflect on how important our farming community is in providing the food we survive on.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said he was excited for the next Fresh Food Fair on Sunday, 5 August.

“The community was spoilt with choices with over 25 stalls selling their produce during the inaugural Fair on Sunday, 1 July,” Mayor Bali said.

“Council wants the best for its residents and the Fresh Food Fair offered an abundance of freshly-grown produce.

“There was local fruit and vegetables, local honey, plants, jams and chutney and many more.

“It was a great atmosphere for locals to head outdoors and support local farmers and businesses.”

Residents were also able to support local charities by purchasing a bacon and egg roll from local Lions and Rotary Clubs.

The entertainment also proved to be popular among the residents.

“The petting zoo was a hit among the children and it will again be returning on Sunday, 5 August, along with the free face painting.”

The Fresh Food Fair will run on the first Sunday of every month from 9am to noon at the Village Green, 62 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown.

Stall-holders who would like to be part of the Fair can apply online at blacktown.nsw.gov.au

› Tregear Festival Join in on all the fun on Saturday, 25 August celebrating local talent and community spirit at the 2018 Tregear Festival.

Blacktown City Council proudly brings this event to you with the Tregear Festival Committee.

Come down for a fun day packed with entertainment, free rides for the kids and face painting. There will also be an array of food and market/craft stalls for all to enjoy.

Gather your family and friends for an exciting day of delicious food, market stalls and entertainment.

3 Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

Fresh produce proves to be a hit at fair

local news

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

4

Western News

From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Dianne Bonello 0418 813 319 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Hilary Nathan Media 0402 841 434 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

Distribution Map Western News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

Riverstone Rouse hill Marsden Park Kellyville Ridge

Schofields Shanes Park Colebee

Quakers Hill

Hassall Grove

St Marys

Dean Park Glendenning

Emerton

Plumpton

Stanhope Gardens Parklea

Kings Park Marayong

Woodcroft

Kings Langley Lalor Park

Mt Druitt Rooty Hill Minchinbury

Blacktown

Seven Hills

Arndell Park Toongabbie

Eastern Creek

Dad’s one of those blokes who has a “saying” for everything. And most of his sayings come from that love of the punt. “ Faster than last week’s pay, so slow the jockey kept a diary of the trip, that bloke couldn’t ride a rocking horse” and many, many more.

They say as we get older we slowly turn into our parents. I don’t mind a bit of a dabble on a Saturday, but my passionate pastime is following politics and I find those old sayings still pop into my head.

Last weekend’s by elections Super Saturday was clean up day for the bookies when nothing that the polls or the pundits had predicted came to fruition.

Vineyard

Ropes Crossing

joking.

M

Y father has always been a mad punter. When I was growing up he was a bookie down at the racetrack as well as owning and racing greyhounds. He loved his dogs so much they had their own bedrooms. I’m not even

Prospect

THE PRESIDENT AND COMMITTEE OF HAWKESBURY TORCH BEARERS FOR LEGACY Request the pleasure of your company at

The Grand Centenary Ball Saturday 11 August 2018 Hawkesbury Race Club, Racecourse Rd, Clarendon 6.30pm arrival for 7.00pm Carriages at 11.30pm In aid of the 2018 Legacy Badge Appeal

Grand Auction and Raffle Dress Code: Black Tie Tickets: $120 per person RSVP: Friday 5 August 2018

Book now: www.trybooking.com/386674 Contact Suzi Samuel T: 0488 241 035 E: suzisamuel24@gmail.com

Once the races were done and dusted, the winners, the losers, the roughies and the also-rans were all left to contemplate what contributed to the result.

Some pranced around like prize-winning pacers, some sugarcoated the losses and some fronted the media with heads like a beaten favourites calling incorrect weight.

What were your thoughts on the results? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

Western News

local news

T

he Westlink M7 Blacktown Running Festival has again attracted international and interstate runners.

More than 800 people including participants from Hong Kong, China, Western Australia and South Australia attended the festival on Sunday, 29 July.

Kirsten Molloy from Port Macquarie, NSW, came out on top for the third year in a row in the Women’s marathon.

Molloy took out the women’s marathon in 2:58:40 – slightly quicker than her win last year at 3:01:01.

Liam Adams from Moonee Ponds in Victoria took out the Men’s Marathon in 2:21:02.

“Congratulations to Kirsten and Liam on a race well run,” Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said.

Mayor Bali said the fact the marathon was held on the Westlink M7 shared pathway contributed to the event’s success.

“The Blacktown Running Festival is one of the few traffic-free marathons in Australia, meaning runners have a smooth running event without having to worry about kerbs, gutters or traffic,” he said.

“It also means that motorists are not inconvenienced by road closures.

“This is partly why the event is so

popular; with runners from all over Australia and across the world gearing up to compete every year.”

Michael Vassili

Barristers and Solicitors Family Law – Criminal Law – Civil Law All Litigation in All Courts throughout Australia

First interview is Free

1300 557 819 (24 HOURS - 7 DAYS)

admin@cityprosecutor.com.au www.cityprosecutor.com.au

Rouse Hill – Blacktown Seven Hills – Melbourne

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

World audience for the 2018 Westlink M7 Marathon

5

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

6

local news

Western News

Spring to the festival on September 1

T

he St Marys Spring Festival is on Saturday September 1 and it is a great opportunity for St Marys organisations to promote themselves to the wider community.

One of the FREE ways that you can do this is by getting involved in the Grand Parade. If your team have matching uniforms you could form a walking group. If your vehicle is interesting or has signage, you could enter as a float. The list of options is endless.

The parade commences at approximately 12.30pm and all approved participants will be sent marshalling information closer to the event.

The Grand Parade is one of the highlights of the St Marys Spring Festival, watched by thousands of people. They are looking for marching bands, dancing groups, vintage vehicles, walking floats, school groups and more.

If you are wondering how you can get involved in the St Marys Spring Festival, don’t worry, there are lots of opportunities for locals to get involved. One option that you might want to consider is having a market stall.

They are currently looking for new and interesting stall holders to be part of this years’ line up.

“We regularly have over 200 stalls at the St Marys

The G Spot

THIS month we are going to enlighten ourselves with car security tips. The almighty car can mean many different things to people, and at times I have often wondered why some males have married their wives and not the beloved car.

That hunk of metal that you have cashed yourself up to your eyeballs in, that sits (quietly) on the driveway is also the bearer of many of your darkest secrets such as the odd scratch, the odd nose pick at traffic lights, singing Mariah Carey in high C and thinking that you sound great and body gas that could wipe out the state forest.

Hint one - Nothing quite spells please smash my window and grab me like an iPad, iPhone, navigator, laptop and any other electronic contraption on the planet left on show in your car.

Really good idea to take all that crap

with you, because nobody (except the baddies) really care that you own a laptop bigger than Sydney airport’s flight command centre equipment.

Hint two - The 11th commandment - Locketh thy car. You would be soooo surprised how many boneheads leave the car unlocked in car parks or driveways and wonder why it got stolen or broken into. We have all been guilty of this - rushed, kids screaming, bottle’o calling your name in 3D - however it is imperative (my big word for the day) to lock your car each and every time you get out of it.

(Copy that, Roger Wilco).

Hint three - Car alarm systems, most new makes and models come with all that crap in them, however many don’t squeal like a pigeon having its feet pulled. They quite often don’t have all the bells and whistles (Unless it’s a $400,000 sports whatever car

Spring Festival and our guests are always interested in exploring what treats our stall holders have on offer,” a spokesperson said.

“We offer 3m x 3m (strict size constraints apply) space only sites. You can purchase more than one site but the depth of your site cannot go past 3m. A standard site starts at $80.

“We do cap categories and we always sell out so unfortunately we can’t accept everyone.”

For more information about the event please follow St Marys Town Centre on Facebook or check out www.stmarystowncentre.com.au to find out how you can get involved.

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

with a coffee maker), I am still a firm believer of the beloved extra car alarm, beep, beep, immobiliser etc, that just does what is designed to do.

And get it installed by someone who knows what that hell they are doing not Uncle Harry who has a world title in macramé.

Hint Four - Okay hands up who leaves car keys in the ignition while getting fuel (don’t lie)? This deserves the Chuck Norris upper cut award in bronze, because yes folks cars have been stolen from servos. Take your keys with you, sorry yeah I know it will add 3 seconds to the fuel up time …but this is a big tut-tut-tut with an index finger wave.

Hint five - Parking the machine in a dark place, now unless you are doing a stick up, drug transaction or some other activity, it is a great idea to park in well-lit areas and where

people are around.

Hint Six - Pimping da ride- love the $10,000 tyre rims with the Swarovski crystals on each nut? Well so do the baddies. If you are going to beef up the bad boy, it may be a good idea to have it as the Sunday ride only, fully garaged ( you thought I was going to say fully sick didn’t you?) and also have a very hungry Pit Bull stapled to the driver’s side door. It’s great that you are spending a mortgage on your car, however be aware that it will draw as much attention as a state of origin match. Just be aware that it is high on the Richter scale of car theft.

So there you have it, Gina’s handy tips on car security, your car will be safe (tick) we won’t laugh at your gr8 number plates (tick)no animals were injured during the writing of this article (tick) and the bottle’o is still calling your name (tick).

KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL

6 months free

1300 SECURITY ML No. 405714685

back to base monitoring* www.nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au

* new connections

Western News

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

s 2018’s Do Something Day came to a close, the team at St Marys Rugby League Club tallied the staggering amount of donations that came from their patrons supporting the Christ Mission Possible Brown Paper Bag Project.

A whopping estimated 18kg of Vegemite, 16.5kg of jam, 54 litres of juice, 10kg of honey and 6 kilometres of muesli bars!

The Brown Paper Bag Project was launched by Christ Mission Possible in 2016 and works with local schools identifying children who do not have access to a nutritious recess snack or lunch.

The Project then prepares a homestyle lunch pack consisting of a sandwich, fruit, muesli bar and a juice and delivers them to schools in a brown paper back.

In just a short few months, the Brown Paper Bag Project grew from 100 lunches a week to just over 2,000 each week – and it’s still growing.

They now partner with over 20 local schools, and the results are amazing; students participating have shown better attendance, grades are up, and the child’s behaviours have improved

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

A whole lot of Vegemite brings smiles to Saints

7

L-R: Christ Mission Possible: Lauri Marshall – Administration Martin Beckett – CEO and Madelaine Caruana – Saints Marketing Coordinator

dramatically.

“It breaks my heart that it’s 2018 and yet we still have local kids going to school without a packed lunch” said St Mary’s Leagues Marketing

Coordinator Yvette Haines, adding “that’s why we were so thrilled to partner with Christ Mission Possible, and with the help of our incredibly generous Members manage to gather

so many food donations.”

Donations and volunteers are always needed. Find out what you can do at www.cmp.org.au and keep the spirit of Do Something Day going.

TURTLE NURSERY AND LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES All materials available in 20kg Bags Specialising in 1 tonne Bulka-Bags

DELIVERIES 7 DAYS OPEN 7 DAYS • Decorative Gravels • Nepean River • Griffith Red • Cowra, White & Gold • Charcoal • Crushed Tile • Aussie Brown • Scoria Red & White • Blue Metal • Road Base • Sand 14 Types

• Recycled Aggregates • Bush Rock • Sandstone Flagging • Cements • Softfall (Play Ground) • Pine Bark • Coloured Wood Chip • Eucalyptus Mulch • Hardwood Chip • Softwood Chip • Leaf Mulch

• Cypress Wood Chip • Top Soil • Organic Garden Mix • Premium Garden Mix • 80/20 Top Dressing • Organic Top Dressing • Filling Sand • Turf Underlay • Mushroom Compost • Treated Pine Sleepers

Cnr Windsor & Rouse Rds

Cnr Racecourse & Blacktown Rds

ROUSE HILL Phone: 9629 2299

SOUTH WINDSOR Phone: 4574 3299

TURF AVAILABLE:

• SIR WALTER • EUREKA KIKUYU • NULLARBOR COUCH

FIREWOOD AVAILABLE blocks and pavers 400x400 pavers $6.80 each

huge range of Nursery plants at discount prices

Rouse Hill only www.turtlenursery.com.au

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

8

local news

Western News

› Aldi Miniroos Gala Blacktown District Soccer Football Association is representative of 24 clubs in the Blacktown district. This Saturday is their gala day involving 4000 players ranging in age from under 5 through to under 11’s.

The 7 clubs holding the gala day locations and further details can be found on facebook: The Ponds Football Club https://www.facebook.com/ pondsfc/ Newbury Bulls Soccer Club: www.facebook.com/Newbury-Bulls-Soccer-ClubInc-248514965198517/ Kings Langley Soccer Football Club: www.facebook.com/KLSFC1969/videos/861624474028689/ Marayong Football Clubhttps: www.facebook.com/425249514225699/ videos/1805596979524272/ Town Rangers: www.townrangersfc.com/ Doonside: www.facebook.com/pg/doonsidehawkssoccerclub/posts/ Blacktown District Soccer Football Association: www.facebook.com/blacktowndsfa/

› The new pioneers Don’t sit at home letting time pass you by!

The New Pioneers are a singles social club aimed at over 50’s who enjoy meeting new friends.

Contact Sue on 0472 729 462 for more details.

Conolly: Labor a threat to health improvements

L

IBERAL MP for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly says the worst thing for health services across western Sydney would be a change in government.

“The biggest threat to health services in Sydney’s north-west is the possibility of a Labor government,” Mr Conolly said.

“Since 2011 the NSW Liberal Government has invested more than $700 million in Blacktown-Mount Druitt hospitals, more than doubling the capacity of the hospitals, and has employed hundreds of extra nurses, doctors and allied health staff across the two campuses.

“And the 2018-19 budget included an allocation of $75 million to purchase the site for a new public hospital in the Rouse Hill area.

“Under the Liberals the State health budget has grown by more than inflation every year since 2011.

Mr Conolly said all of this would be at risk if Labor were to be elected.

“Labor has opposed all of the budget repair measures, like the public sector wages policy and asset recycling, which have made these improvements possible,” Mr Conolly continued.

“If they turn back the clock on these policies, the money for the health system improvements would dry up.

“Under Labor’s failed economic policies there would no longer be the money required to support new hospital projects or to hire new nurses and doctors.

“If Labor ever won government we would go back to the bad old days of drip-feeding funding to a health system unable to cope with the demands of a growing community.”

Mr Conolly said the number of doctors has increased by 3100 FTE or 35 per cent. nurses and midwives increased by 7800 FTE or 19 per cent, allied health increased by 1800 FTE or 22 per cent.

He added that the NSW population from Dec 2010 – Dec 2017 grew by 10.2 per cent.

Innovation Roof Restoration Are you happy with the look of your roof?

Best rates in town!

Licence No. 251151c

Call Kurtis on

SENIOR DISCOUNTS

0475 555 000 for a free quote

BEFORE

AFTER

All work comes with a 5 year guarantee

Western News

local news

Petbarn thanks the local Blacktown City community after raising $4,162 for the Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal

T

hanks to the kindness and generosity of the local Blacktown City community who contributed $4,162 to The Petbarn Foundation’s National Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, 14 special puppies will receive training to provide assistance to Aussies who are blind or have low vision.

The Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, which launched across Petbarn stores in May and ran for six weeks, raised a massive $716,795 across all Petbarn, City Farmers and Greencross Vets Clinics nationally.

All funds raised will go directly towards covering the costs of breeding, caring for puppies, training and matching Seeing Eye Dogs to as many people as possible.

David Speyer, General Manager of Seeing Eye Dogs, says he is absolutely thrilled with the result of this year’s fundraising campaign.

“I would like to express my sincere thanks to The Petbarn Foundation, City Farmers, Greencross Vets Clinics, ROYAL CANIN® and the local Blacktown City community for their generosity in supporting the Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal this year.

Our mission to help people who are blind or have low vision to live the

life they choose would not have been possible without your support. We are overwhelmed by your kind donations that mean we are able to expertly breed, train and match more worldclass Seeing Eye Dogs,” says David.

It costs a minimum of $50,000 and takes up to two years to train one Seeing Eye Dog. Training begins when the dog is still a puppy and involves teaching them basic socialisation skills and obedience and,

on maturity, each dog takes part in up to six months of intensive training with a specialised instructor.

“It takes a lot of expertise, time, love, patience, and funding to raise these special dogs that will one day become the gift of independence for 14 Australians who are blind or have very low vision,” David says.

Chief Operating Officer, Tanya Houghton says she is blown away by the kindness of the Blacktown City

community and would like to thank them for digging deep and supporting this very worthy cause.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who donated to the appeal this year. Seeing Eye Dogs do more than just allow Australians who are blind or have low vision to retain their independence and mobility – they alleviate the effects of social isolation and contribute to an all-round better quality of life, which is why we are proud to be involved in helping train 14 puppies,” Tanya says.

“A special thanks to ROYAL CANIN® for their ongoing support over the past ten years by providing precise and individualised nutrition to help ensure the Seeing Eye Dogs and puppies-in-training are fit for their important work. This year, they kickstarted the campaign by donating $50,000 to the appeal,” Tanya says.

To find out more information about SEDA, please contact your local Petbarn store: Petbarn Blacktown, Shop 5b Blacktown Mega Centre, 14 St Martins Crescent, Tel: 9622 8414 Petbarn Marsden Park, Tenancy 6, 17-43 Hollinsworth Road, Tel: 8397 7902 or visit www.petbarn.com.au or www.seeingeyedogs.org.au

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

A round of a paws: Petbarn thanks the Blacktown City community

9

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

10

local columnists

Western News

Blue Mountains Caving

By BEN CRANNEY

A

long a fire trail, north of Lithgow, is an abandoned railway tunnel full of glow worms. It’s down a dirt road, past potholes that could swallow a car, Aboriginal cave paintings, rusted out sedans and harvested tree plantations that look like nuclear wasteland, and national parks with evocative names like ‘Gardens of Stone’. It’s the kind of road I wouldn’t want to drive without a 4WD, especially in rain.

I spent a lot of time planning how to photograph the worms. Would it be possible to get the nightscape of little blue dots to show up? Would they be a blurry mess? In the end, it didn’t matter, because I forgot my camera’s memory card. I was pretty upset, but it was actually a blessing.

Instead of stuffing around trying to take an impossible photo, I sat in the dark while the whole tunnel came alive. It was like a galaxy that was close enough to touch, but it would disappear if I tried, because the glow worms are shy creatures. It’s beauty was enhanced because each pinprick of light was reflected in pools of water that were otherwise invisible in the dark. And every second I sat there, it became stronger, as my eyes adjusted and more glow worms lit up.

Most people lost patience before they saw them properly. They didn’t go far enough in nor wait long enough for the worms to light up. They started

Squeezing through the caves

Looking out from the glow worm tunnel

yelling or flashing their torches around, which make the worms turn off.

The noisy folk may have been better with a different kind of Blue Mountains cave, at Jenolan.

Alongside the self guided caves, it’s possible to join a group of around 12 and head into the depths of the caves.

We learnt about people equal parts adventurous and mad who explored these caves by candle light. A slight breeze, which often comes through, was all that stood between a flickering flame and darkness, which would have meant death. For over two hours, I squeezed through shoulder width

The track to the glow worm tunnel

tunnels and slid down rock polished from hundreds of people doing the same. I switched my headlamp off to experience the complete darkness and contorted my body through spaces it shouldn’t have made it through. And as I emerged into the sunlight, I was

already planning coming back for more.

I think there are other caves to explore as well. Regardless, I’ll be back to try and get my glow worm photos. If they work, I’ll share them with you.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel Mirror, Mirror on the Wall My daughter and I both have a reputation for being eccentric, something we are quite proud of as eccentricity really means not conforming to perceived thinking. Now I blame our eccentricity on our background and it is quite a wonder that we don’t have split personalities because we have two very different sides to our family. My father’s side were highly educated, rather cultured and regular church goers. My mother’s family came from a rather insular area of Yorkshire where there was a strong belief in ghoulies and ghosties, witches and hob goblins and consequently a plethora of superstitions to ward off said evils.

Not all superstitions were bad. Black cats crossing your path were lucky as were upturned horse shoes, but Heaven help you if the shoe was the wrong way up as all the luck would run out. But there were those that needed action to avoid dire but oft unnamed consequences. For example, seeing a magpie meant saluting him, turning round three times and spitting, something in which us youngsters took great delight.

Never walk under a ladder, never look at the back of a hay cart and always cross your fingers if you saw an ambulance.

It was also said that if you looked into a mirror at midnight on Hallow’een, you would see the face of the man you were going to marry. I have never plucked up the courage to do this, before marriage because I was terrified I would see some total bozo

and after because I was quite happy and would have panicked if I had seen another face!

Mirrors have long been invested with magical properties. Think of Snow White and the Evil Queen asking “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?” and the mirror replying.

Since the advent of Harry Potter, we have all become familiar with scrying, that is using the mirror as an aid to seeing into another realm. Harry saw his parents, but scrying dates back centuries. Back in the 13th Century, the old Duke of Bedford - he who sent Joan of Arc to her fiery finish - took a young wife with the gift of sight in the hope she would see not only the future in a huge mirror but also how to transform base

metal into gold. I suppose when we think about it, a crystal ball is just a mirrored sphere that we gaze into in the hope of finding knowledge.

Mirrors are a great method of protection. We all know about surrounding ourselves with a mantle of light, but if you add a mirrored surface to the outside, you have a sort of force shield which will stop bad influences reaching you. A bit like the Starship Enterprise under attack from Klingon warships.

If someone is being horrid or sending really bad thoughts your way, just imagine a mirror between you and them and the vibes will bounce back. How good is that? Protection and revenge all at the same time.

At our last Spiritual Discussion Group, one of our lovely ladies was telling us how to see your aura in a mirror. Just squint your eyes a bit and concentrate and you should see the coloured outline of your aura. Bit like me trying not to see the wrinkles! But if you do do this, please ask for blessings and protection first.

From personal experience, there can be evil entities around who are more than happy to take advantage of a bit of mirror peering and pop in when your guard is down and mind elsewhere. So be careful and treat mirrors with respect, but if you do have the courage to have a peep at midnight on 31st October, let me know what you see. Maybe it will be the handsome prince.

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

Western News

local news

E

ntries for the 2018 Blacktown City Art Prize are now open. Now in its 23rd year, the Blacktown City Art Prize is highly valued, with cash prizes of $20,000.

Local, regional and national artists are invited to submit entries in drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics and mixed media.

The winner of the Blacktown City Art Prize will receive $15,000.

Three supporting prizes will also be awarded: • Aboriginal Artist Prize ($2,000) • Local Artist Prize ($2,000) • People’s Choice Prize ($1,000).

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said: “The Blacktown City Art Prize has been a key cultural event for over 20 years.

“It showcases the breadth of artistic talent coming from the Blacktown region and beyond, and demonstrates Council’s commitment to art and culture playing a major role in the life of our city.”

This year, the winners of the Local Artist Prize and Aboriginal Artist Prize will also have the opportunity to undertake a 3-month residency in one of Blacktown Arts’ Main Street studios.

“The addition of a studio residency to the prize pool is an exciting

opportunity for artists who want to engage with people or places in Blacktown,” Mayor Bali said.

‘In 2015, Alexandra Byrne created Lucas Road at night (outside my place) during an artist residency at Blacktown Arts’ Main Street studios.

This striking work went on to win the Local Artist Prize later that year.’

The Blacktown City Art Prize also celebrates the creativity of local young people through an environmentallythemed Young Artist’s Prize.

This section is open to 5 to 15 year olds who live or go to school in

Blacktown City.

Selected works will be exhibited at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre from Saturday 1 December 2018 to Friday 25 January 2019.

Entries for the 2017 Blacktown City Art Prize are now open.

Entries close at 5pm on Tuesday, 10 October 2017.

To enter the Blacktown City Art Prize or the Young Artist Prize, and for the full terms and conditions, visit: www.blacktownarts.com.au.

The fee is $26.00 per entry with a limit of 2 entries per artist. Photography,

film, video and installation works will not be accepted.

For all enquiries, call 9839 6558 or email artscentre@blacktown.nsw.gov. au KEY DATES • Entries close: Tuesday 9 October 2018 at 5 pm.

• Announcement of finalists: Monday 29 October 2018.

• Official opening: 2 pm - 4 pm on Saturday 1 December 2018.

• Exhibition dates: Saturday 1 December 2018 - Friday 25 January 2019.

GREATER WEST TREE SERVICE Palm removal Tree removal Tree pruning Stump grinding Mulch sales ❧ Fully insured

Western Sydney Tree Service For a FREE quote ring us 7 days

0403 537 333

MULCH SALES 4m2 for $50

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

Make your mark at the Blacktown City Art Prize

11

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

12

WESTERN HISTORY

The Rooty Hill Estate (Part 1)

By Jack Brook Blacktown and District Historical Society

T

he Rooty Hill Church and School Corporation Estate contained a little over 8138 acres and was granted in 1829. It was the first land grant made in the Parish of Rooty Hill.

The short lived Church and Schools Corporation (1826-1833) was denounced by virtually everyone who was not an Anglican (about half the population). The Church of England, through the government, was given oneseventh of all colonial lands. Governor Bourke reported that the spirit of the age was “decidedly hostile” to the establishment of a dominant and endowed episcopal church. Over a period of several years, the Australian newspaper tagged the Corporation with privilege, inequality, abuse, greed and hypocrisy.

Surveyor G Bowen initially surveyed the land for the Corporation and divided it into seven allotments. Although the Estate was surveyed, the line of trees forming the boundary of some of the allotments was not allowed to be “cut on the ground” (marked), which led to endless disputes between the Corporation and its tenants. When the land was resurveyed in 1840 by the Government Surveyor, Mr Wright, the problem was rectified by marking the trees formerly omitted.

Each tenant received a “fair proportion of cultivated land and also access to water”. Oswold Bloxsome, Agent for the Church and School Lands, wrote that “These divisions or allotments have been made judiciously and it is not recommended to alter them”. The Corporation initially kept stock on the property and went to considerable expense to fence the boundaries and to clear and stump some portions, fencing off numerous paddocks. By 1840, much of the original fencing had been removed, in some instances not a rail being left.

Some of the land had been cultivated but with the exception of two tenants, all the land in 1840 was kept for grazing only. Bloxsome stated that the general quality of the land was of “a secondary description of grazing land, the soil being iron stone gravel.” The principal value of the property arose from its fine timber, “There being some of the largest Iron Bark and Box trees upon it to be found in a circuit of many miles”- a fair amount remained. However some of the finest specimens had been “weeded out.” Such was the reputed quality of the timber that persons had travelled a distance of 20 miles to cut and split shingles “on the spot” and to take them by dray loads at a time. Bloxsome gave notice that in future, such cutting was not to be allowed. The shingles used for roofing the Blacktown Native Institution in 1823 were almost certainly cut on what later became the Corporation’s land.

Allotment No 1 covered 303 acres in 1829 but in 1840, Bloxsome stated it comprised 246 acres. To confuse the matter further, the printed sketch map shows only 217 acres. This allotment was intended for a

village, which if it had come to fruition, would be named Hebersham.

Positioned on the Great Western Road, halfway between Parramatta and the Nepean River, “a distance found rather too great for one day’s journey by a heavily laden dray”, was deemed an excellent position for a village.

A narrow road (track) which passed through the land led to the Richmond Road and there was permanent water at hand in the “East Creek”. The surrounding country was “thickly studded with farms on which the owners themselves” resided. Therefore, it seemed likely that “a small community of mechanics and other useful persons of the lower orders” might in time be settled there. To induce people to settle, tenants would have 7 years rent free, with an option of a further lease for 14 years at a rent of £1/6/8 per acre per annum. Only two people complied with the terms, one holding 20 acres and the other 8 acres.

William (Lumpy) Dean already had a 50 acre land grant adjoining the No 1 Allotment. He had fenced in 12 or 14 acres of the late Corporation’s land, adjoining his own. Oswold Bloxsome gave him notice to quit and remove the fences and to leave him no excuse, had a marked tree line cut for him. There were also some squatters on this allotment, who had notice to quit. Lumpy Dean had an inn nearby, which he aptly named Corporation Inn. Initially he had named it Bush Inn. To be continued next issue....

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT HIRE US FOR ALL YOUR BUS NEEDS! Phone

Salvatore Maviglia 0422 659 414 • Concrete • Resurfacing • Landscaping • Civil Works

4732 2195 Victor & Cathy Glanville

Mob: 0416

14/14-18 Preston St, Penrith

157 668

enquiry@vicsmaxitransport.com.au

www.vicsmaxitransport.com.au

Western News

Rentvesting - enter the property market without sacrificing your current lifestyle

As property prices continue to rise, purchasing in a centrally-located or sought-after area is out of reach for the average working millennial.

Instead, many are opting to rent rather than buy as it means not having to compromise their inner city or beachside lifestyle. But for those who are still eager to enter the market, there is a way to get the best of both worlds.

‘Rentvesting’ is the term coined for when you purchase a property for investment purposes in an affordable location and continue to live and rent in the area of your choice. An example of how the market is evolving, it is a wealth

creation strategy that is popular among the younger generation due to the flexibility it offers in comparison to being an owneroccupier.

Many Millennials aren’t interested in purchasing a property in the outer suburbs and then having to commute into the CBD. “Rentvesting allows your rental income to cover the mortgage expenses, so you can keep living the lifestyle you want without it costing you any money.”

For this strategy to work, you’ve got to be a good saver and there needs to be a focus on delayed gratification, advises the broker. “It’s all about living within

your means. Don’t spend big at the start while you’re building it up. Step away from the mentality of negative gearing and tax minimisation and buy neutrally, or ideally, a positively geared property as this provides higher rental yields.”

A recent survey by a mortgage provider highlighted an increase in ‘rentvesting’ from 21 per cent of investors to 37 per cent over the past twelve months alone. But while this strategy may appear ideal to many, it’s not suited to everybody.

It’s still a foreign way of thinking and you have to be satisfied . “In the past, the great Australian dream @wealthwiz

was to buy a home on a quarter acre block and then do everything you can to pay that down as fast as possible in the hope of living debt-free. ‘Rentvesting’ is quite the opposite. It says we’re okay with good debt as long as we stick to our budget and keep using the money to invest further. You’ve got to have an open mind and be comfortable with debt.”

To ensure you have the means to make ‘rentvesting’ work for you, contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177 for advice on good debt and other strategies that will allow you to maintain your current lifestyle.

13 Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

Alex Soncini

REAL ESTATE

#wealthwizau

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

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Shoving (8) 5 Confession (6) 9 Sexual abstention (8) 10 Actress _______

Cuthbert (6) 12 Supporting (9) 13 Dried leaves of the

hemp plant (5) 14 A national emblem (4) 16 Elusive (7) 19 Gourmet (7) 21 Reflected sound (4) 24 Former French

currency (5) 25 An institution for

abandoned children (9) 27 Dried grape (6) 28 Gridiron or soccer (8) 29 Fail to fulfill a

promise (6) 30 Forever (8)

solution 20/7/18

down 1 Raised up to change a tire (6) 2 Fragments (6) 3 Not sooner (5) 4 Mesh (7) 6 3-dimensional picture (9) 7 Badge (8) 8 Exchange (8) 11 Look amorously (4) 15 Firing rockets (9) 17 Mariner (8) 18 Quotation (8) 20 Psyches (4) 21 Feat (7) 22 Type of sausage (6) 23 Position (6) 26 He plays a role (5)

Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

14

Western News

SPORT

Young Wanderers lose to Spirit FC

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 2 team were defeated 3-1

by Spirit FC at Sydney United Sports Centre on Saturday.

The Wanderers looked lively in the early minutes and a swift counter provided an opportunity for Marley Peterson who flashed a shot wide of the target.

Samuel Silvera was getting a lot of the ball and almost linked up with Peterson after a surging run through the middle, while a few minutes later he was inches away from picking out Noah Pagden with a free kick.

Silvera then had a chance of his own after getting on the end of a great pass from Tate Russell, with the shot hitting the side netting.

However, it would be Spirit FC to go 1-0 up just after the half-hour mark with a goal against the run of play, as West converted a penalty kick.

The Wanderers unfortunately then fell further behind just before half-time with Whitlock giving Spirit FC a 2-0 lead.

The Wanderers tried to respond before the interval and John Roberts was unlucky not to find Oliver

Puflett after a clever backheel.

Early in the second half, Wanderers goalkeeper Daniel Axford was called into action, making a couple of good saves while Tate Russell also made a good covering tackle after a Spirit FC counter attack.

The Wanderers managed to get themselves back into the game, and Peterson had a decent chance, shooting just wide from inside the penalty area.

With ten minutes left, the Wanderers received a lifeline after substitute Joshua Gulevski was knocked over inside the penalty area.

Joshua Bartolotto’s initial spot kick was saved, but after a retake due to encroachment, he slotted the ball away at the second attempt to halve the deficit.

The goal gave the Wanderers a renewed hope and soon after Roberts combined with Gulevski to set up a chance for Silvera, who was denied excellently

by Spirit FC goalkeeper Tomi Romic.

In the dying minutes, Gulevski fired wide from Silvera’s cross, and followed up with another chance after doing well to hold off a defender, but his shot went inches wide of the goal.

The result sees the Wanderers NPL 2 first grade side drop to 11th place. However, there was better news earlier in the day as both the U/18’s and U/20’s won their matches.

The Wanderers will next take on Parramatta FC at Melita Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Kick-off is at 3:00pm.

Australia’s first synthetic rugby league field

B

lacktown City Council has unveiled its $6 million synthetic rugby league field, the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said: “the field at Kellyville Ridge is an investment for our community.

“We are committed to transforming Blacktown into a sporting and active city by 2030.

“The synthetic surface allows for three times more play than the most advanced natural grass fields.

“It’s an all-weather field and with the sub-surface shock pad that has been installed, it’s softer to be tackled on and is consistently safe for play.”

The National Rugby League committed $600,000 to the project.

NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder said: “It will be wonderful to see rugby league players, parents, volunteers and officials throughout Western Sydney enjoying countless hours running around on one of the most innovative sports fields in Australia.”

Outdoor community fitness equipment is located adjacent to the field.

Mayor Bali said: “It’s in an ideal location for rugby league in Western Sydney.

“The field is located between the region’s two NRL clubs; the Parramatta Eels and the Penrith Panthers, and will be home to the St Patricks Junior

Rugby League Club and other teams from the Penrith and Districts Rugby League Association.

“This will be a well-utilised facility.”

› Stonecutters Ridge Climb Higher in Club of the Year Rankings

O

Stonecutters Ridge veteran golfer Brett Bellis in action during the WSRVGA Inter-Club event at Leonay GC. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

ne hundred and forty-two players greeted the starter at Leonay Golf Club on 24th July, participating in the Western Sydney Region Veteran Golfers Association (WSRVGA) Inter-Club competition.

Stonecutters Ridge GC had a strong team performance to finish second on the day with 145 points behind host club Leonay (151) and just one point ahead of Richmond GC on 144.

Allan Renshall and Greg Nethery (Stonecutters) finished runners-up in the 2BBB event, whilst clubmate Moe Hein won the Division Three Singles event.

The expected frost and early cold winds greeted the players prior to the shotgun start but the day

quickly turned remarkably warm, more like Autumn or Spring than the middle of Winter.

Following the day’s results, Richmond GC moved back into the outright lead for ‘Club of the Year’ on 727 points, ahead of Wallacia (2nd with 720), Stonecutters Ridge (3rd on a countback with 702) and Penrith (4th with 702).

The list of sponsors for the WSRVGA event included the Richmond Club, Guardian Funerals, Heartland Holden, OnePoint Health, Nepean River Belle, Drummond Golf, Property Central, Frasers Property, Nepean Valley Pure Water, Steric, Chem Tools and The 19th Golf Driving Range.

The next WSRVGA Inter-Club will be held at Wallacia GC on 31st August.

Western News

with MARK GEYER

Panthers prevail in what could be a season-defining game

15 15 Western News 3 August 2018 Issue 65

MG on the mark

SPORT

 Did that just happen?

T

alk about pulling a rabbit out of a hat, or even better, a Sea Eagle out of the sky.

Wow! If i didn’t see it with my own eyes I wouldn’t have believed you if you told me that Manly lead Penrith in their round 20 clash at Lotto Land last Saturday 24-6 with 12 minutes to play but Penrith would come from behind and win!!

What the??? But indeed they most definitely did.

In what was eerily looking like the demise of the Panther for season 2018, quickly turned into a sliding door moment that now has Anthony Griffin’s men back on track for some deep semi final action come September.

This is how the Houdini act unfolded.

Trailing 24-6 Josh Mansour went over in the 69th minute. In the 71st it was the skipper’s turn when Isaah Yeo surged over. A minute later after great lead up from Kikau and Cleary, Waqa Blake went over, then in the 74th minute Nathan Cleary sealed the deal when he went over after a Tommy Turbo fumble. 28-24 with 5 minutes to go.

Penrith held on in what could well be a season-defining performance. A loss has them scrambling for a semi final birth, a win puts them on 26 points and now guaranteed of finals action. The ‘cardiac kids’ now face Canberra on home turf this Sunday.

If you’re going make sure to take an aspirin - you’ll need it.

And another thing.

My great mate at Hertz Craig ‘Thommo’ Thompson is giving me his corporate

 Nathan Pentecost doing his best ‘that’s Gold”

box at Panthers Stadium for the Newcastle Knights home game on Saturday the 18th of August. If you want to join me check out the promo (below) and you could be one of 3 people (with a mate) who join me on the day. Hope to see you.

But wait there’s more...

Last week I was given the honour of becoming the ambassador for the Western Sydney Wheelchair Rugby League competition which is played out of the YMCA stadium in Hawkesbury. It’s an inclusive sport where ANYONE can play. I’ve played and it’s lots of fun. I could best describe it as Oztag in wheelchairs. If you think you’d like to give it a go give either Brett Clark 0481 008 215 or Nathan Pentecost 0419 463 930 a Buzz.

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

WIN *Terms and Conditions apply

A double pass for a corporate box experience with Mark Geyer*

Western News Friday, 3 August 2018

SPORT

Blacktown City secure a spot in the finals

By CONNER LOWE

A

n exceptional equaliser from Mason Versi has saved Blacktown City from defeat as they drew 1-1 against Rockdale City Suns at Lily Homes Stadium on Sunday.

The opening 45 minutes was difficult for both sides with strong winds making play difficult and limiting the amount of chances created.

Rockdale City came out firing in the opening period, creating multiple chances but failed to find a way past the Blacktown City keeper. Soon after Blacktown had a penalty appeal ignored by the referee when Versi was clipped and went down in the box.

Rockdale looked strong on the counter throughout the opening half but failed to capitalise on their opportunities, leaving Blacktown relieved to go in at the break at nil all.

Rockdale continued to push for the opening goal in the second half with some excellent football leading to multiple chances and were unlucky not to take the lead when Alameddine chipped the out

rushing keeper only to be denied by the post.

The pressure eventually paid off for Rockdale as they took the lead through Jonathan Grozdanovski in the 66th minute. It was great build up play from the Suns and a fantastic headed finish from Grozdanovski after a great ball in to the box.

Rockdale then had keeper Ante Covic to thank after multiple great saves keeping Rockdale in the lead as they entered the final 15 minutes of the game.

However, Covic couldn’t do anything to stop the equaliser from Versi after he linked up with Askew finishing exquisitely from a fantastic cross from the young City playmaker.

Blacktown almost stole the lead at the end of the game, but City striker Joey Gibbs failed to hit the target from inside the box.

Blacktown remain in fourth spot on the ladder, with Rockdale sitting four points behind in fifth place. With only two games remaining Blacktown have secured their finals spot with Rockdale hoping to secure theirs next week against Hakoah Sydney City East.