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By Keegan Thomson
LONG term Councillor, former Mayor of Blacktown City Council and fierce community advocate, Leo Kelly OAM has been laid to rest after a long battle with cancer. “Leo Kelly was a dedicated and proud advocate for Blacktown and the Council extends its sincere condolences to his wife Janet, their children John and Melissa, grandchildren Owen and James and the extended family,” said the Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali. In a statement the Mayor acknowledged Councillor Kelly’s long and prosperous tenure as a member of the Blacktown City Council. “Cr Kelly was Mayor of this City from 1985-87, 1990-91 and from 2004-2008 and also served as Vice-President (Metro) on the Local Government Association of NSW for some 15 years. “Respected for his passion for and commitment to the staff of the Council, Councillor Kelly would often say that ‘the staff are the ones who make things happen’,” Mayor Bali said. Cr Kelly represented Blacktown LGA Ward 2, which takes in the suburbs of Lalor Park, Glenwood, Kings Langley, Kings Park, Marayong and parts of Blacktown, Quakers Hill and Seven Hills. There will now be a by election in Ward 2 in the coming months. Being a Labor stalwart, his funeral, held on Tuesday, was attended by a list of local Labor Party
faces including Senator Sam Dastyari and federal MPs Ed Husic and Michelle Rowland. Mr Husic wrote on social media he was very saddened to hear about the passing of the Councillor. “Leo’s life of service includes almost 40 years as a councillor and six years as mayor. Leo was a strong advocate for the Blacktown region and will be greatly missed. Our condolences are with Leo’s family at this time,” Mr Husic said. Former State Premier, Nathan Rees, posted a heartfelt message on facebook saying he set the standards for how Councillors should perform. “Leo gave his heart and soul to Blacktown Council over many, many decades. Leo epitomised grassroots advocacy and engagement. His work throughout Lalor Park, and Blacktown generally, sets the benchmark for Councillors everywhere,” Mr Rees wrote. Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2003 for services to Local Government, Councillor Kelly played a pivotal role in the successful campaign for a university in western Sydney and the establishment of Nurragingy Reserve, which was a major project marking Australia’s bicentenary. Mayor Bali commended Cr Kelly on his never ending list of community programs and initiatives. “A long time chair of the City’s Arts Reference Advisory Committee, he was responsible for the establishment of Blacktown Arts Centre, which opened in 2002. “It was his motion to council, moved in 1996, that started the initiative and his deep passion for the
arts was further demonstrated by the creation of the Blacktown City Arts Prize, now in its 21st year. “He remained a passionate advocate of the arts and cultural activities of Blacktown City Council until his death,” Mayor Bali said. Cr Kelly passed away on January 23, surrounded by his family in Lalor Park, a place he’d called home since he was a boy. He was 74. He is survived by his wife Janet, son John, daughter Melissa and two grandchildren.
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3 Western News 3 February 2017 Issue 27
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Prospect
From the Editor’s Desk by Kerrie Davies IT has been a controversial first week for President Trump, to say the least, and everywhere you look be it on TV, in newspapers or social media there is footage of a protest springing up. It makes me wonder what these protesters hope to achieve? He’s in and that’s it. Hillary lost a demcratic election, that’s it, move on. Trump hasn’t even had a chance to get his feet wet in the job yet, who knows how it will turn out at this early stage? It’s hard to get your head around the sense behind a protest when a) it changes nothing and b) 20 people lay dead following a recent one. The most surprising thing I’ve seen is a group of 400-odd protesters in QLD. Any minute I’m sure there’ll be a newsflash across the globe: “President Trump has just heard that a bunch of Aussies don’t like him so he’s resigning!” Not bloody likely, so why waste their time? I can think of 400 better ways to waste my time. I’ve just returned from a 14 day tour of Vietnam and Cambodia. It seemed surreal that while people were protesting about a President that they just don’t happen to like, we were visiting the Killing Fields of Phnom Penh, Cambodia looking into the horrific mass graves of those killed at the hands of their former President, Pol Pot and his team. An estimated 3 million people were mercilessly killed under the cruel regime, on the probability of them simply not agreeing with his communist politics. It went even further than that, anybody educated (teachers, doctors etc) were executed without warning. Babies and children of educated persons were held by the feet, bashed against “the killing tree” and thrown into a pit. Seeing rows and rows of human skulls, arranged in age order on shelves, gives one some insight into what an evil President really is. A democratic government is a dream come true for these people. A bit of perspective always shows just how lucky we and the rest of the western world really are. And if you don’t agree, come to Cambodia with me and I’ll show you the product of actual evil. Peace out. Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au
Welcoming new interns Surviving Suicide
OUR local hospitals are welcoming some new interns this month, with the group of medical graduates set to undertake a year-long internship at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals. The 52 interns, including 11 from interstate and one from overseas, will rotate through the hospitals in 2017 – they will attend a two-week orientation program before starting compulsory terms in medicine, surgery and emergency.
The interns are part of the 141 medical graduates, starting their yearlong internship across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD). WSLHD board chair Richard Alcock said the interns would complete compulsory terms in medicine, surgery and emergency. “It’s a remarkable thing to start a career after the incredible study, effort and sacrifice the students have put in,” Mr Alcock said. “I wish all
of our interns well at the start of this challenging new journey.” NSW guarantees intern positions to all domestic medical graduates of NSW universities and provides internships to many graduates from interstate universities, and, where possible, international full-fee paying medical graduates. The interns will rotate through metropolitan, regional or rural hospitals, as well as GP practices.
‘A safe and therapeutic support group for people whose lives have been impacted by suicide’ Fortnightly FREE Support group at Hawkesbury House partnering with Western Sydney Suicide Prevention and Support Network Time 9.30am to 11.30am Hawkesbury House www.hawkesburyhouse.com 6 Christie Street Windsor The groups will meet on the following dates: 14th February 28th February 14th March 28th March 4th April 18th April 2nd May 16th May 30th May 13th June 27th June RSVP is appreciated on 02 4577 6454. Readers requiring support or information about suicide prevention can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
5 Western News 3 February 2017 Issue 27
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Western News 3 Febuary 2017 Issue 27
Aqua Learn to Swim spreads water safety message AQUA LEARN to Swim’s loveable mascot, Pip the Penguin, visited 20 pre-schoolers at Goodstart Early Learning in Oakhurst to spread the message on how to stay safe around water. The visit included a water safety talk by the Aqua Learn to Swim team, covering topics such as water safety around public pools, swimming between the flags at the beach and the importance of always swimming with an adult. Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali said “learning to swim is an important life skill that children of all ages should have the opportunity to develop.” “It’s something that should be considered as an essential skill, and is as important as learning how to drive a car,” said Mayor Bali. “With an alarming number of drownings occurring over the Christmas and New Year period, many of which were young children, the need for educating the community has never been more important. “Council is committed to working closely with local child care centres to further spread the water safety message, as well as getting Pip out and about in the community as the face of the Aqua Learn to Swim program.”
Goodstart Oakhurst Early Childhood Teacher, Julie JohnstonDoyle said educating young children in a fun way about the importance of water safety was a great initiative to bring to the centre. “As part of the programs we offer at Goodstart, our educators create learning environments and experiences for children that balance exploration and challenge in their play with an ongoing focus on safety
and safe play. With summer upon us, exploring the importance of water safety was something we were keen to introduce at the centre,” said Miss Johnston-Doyle. “We believe it is never too early to start teaching children the importance of water safety. We are very excited to be working with Aqua Learn to Swim, who are kindly giving their time to come and teach our youngsters about pool safety, fences, supervision and
the importance of learning to swim.” Aqua Learn to Swim runs at Council’s 5 Leisure & Aquatic Centres – Blacktown, Emerton, Mt Druitt, Riverstone and Stanhope. Places still available for Term 1 which commences on Monday 30 January 2017. For further information on Aqua Learn to Swim or to register your interest please contact your local centre.
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Seniors share unique stories By Keegan Thomson
THERE are millions of stories and anecdotes across Blacktown and those stories are being celebrated in a very special way. Senior citizens of Blacktown city will record their life stories as part of a new oral history project presented by Blacktown city libraries. The Mayor of Blacktown, Councillor Stephen Bali, said he was very excited to hear the incredible stories come to life. “Many of our senior residents have amazing life stories to share, from a former Archbishop of Port Moresby who travelled the world, to a lucky Rooty Hill resident who met astronaut Buzz Aldrin,” said Mayor of Blacktown City Councillor Stephen Bali. Libraries around Blacktown have partnered with aged care homes across the city to collect the life stories of older residents. At Our Lady of Consolation Aged Care Services in Rooty Hill, resident Tony Johnston said he was looking forward to recording his life story, including the time he met astronaut Buzz Aldrin. Mr Johnston bought tickets to a town hall event in Sydney in the
Alicia Filise from Our Lady of Consolation Aged Care Services, resident Tony Johnston and Blacktown City Libraries web librarian Timothy Ungaro.
1970s to meet Aldrin, one of the first men to walk on the moon. “I asked him ‘did you see the Great Wall of China from the moon?’ And he said ‘yes, I did’,” Mr Johnston said. “It was quite an experience.” There are many stories in the halls of Out Lady of Consolation, with Mr Johnston’s brush with fame only a drop in the pond. One fellow resident, Brian Barnes,
83, was the former Archbishop of Port Moresby from 1997 until his retirement in 2008. He became a member of the Order of Friars Minor in 1952 and a bishop of Aitape, in PNG, in 1987. The project entitled, Life Stories, is funded by a $17,800 State Government grant, which gives seniors an opportunity to record their life stories with a family member or
friend. Participants will receive a copy of their conversation so they can keep it, or share it with loved ones, with another copy to be stored in the archives at the Max Webber Library in Blacktown. Mayor Bali said Life Stories couldn’t have happened without the help and hard work of the staff from all libraries across Blacktown. “It’s a testament to the quality of our project and the work library staff put into the application that our initiative was chosen, and I am thrilled it has been awarded funding so that it can become a reality,” he said. The Life Stories project was inspired by Story Corps, a national oral history program in the United States. Life Stories will be trialled at eight aged care homes across Blacktown LGA over the next six months. If the trial is successful, council will expand the project to other organisations in the community so it can continue its mission of building a collection of local voices. So far, three aged care homes have confirmed their participation in the program: St Hedwig Village in Blacktown, Our Lady of Consolation in Rooty Hill and Adventist Aged Care in Kings Langley.
Miracle medals in mystery find By Keegan Thomson
ONLY a month into 2017 and Penrith has been delivered one great Australian mystery and one helluva story. Local removalist and pet controller, Jay Edwards and his team were gutting an abandoned building in Kingswood one afternoon when they came across the find of a century. Behind an old dusty and rusted out cupboard were four, century old British war medals. “We were cleaning out the unit and it was a dump,” Mr Edwards said. “We found the medals hidden behind the cabinetry.” Shocked at the discovery Mr Edwards put pictures of the medals up on facebook. He asked his mates if anyone knew whose medals they were. After a few days his story and the medals had gone viral with his post attracting hundreds of likes, shares and comments. Initially Mr Edwards though the medals were Australian war medals until he received an email from a gentleman in the motherland, Great
Britain, who claimed the medals belonged to his great uncle, Harry Willimott-Watson. “It has all be a little bit surreal,” Mr Edwards said. Neil Harris, the great nephew of Harry Willimott-Watson, spoke to Mr Edwards after it came out that he’d found these medals and has arranged
for one of his relatives to come pick up the medals in Penrith. “Someone from the UK will be in Australia, just out of pure coincidence, and I’m going to meet with them to hand over the war medals,” Mr Edwards said. Even though, through the power of the internet, Mr Edwards has been
able to track down the medal owner’s family there are still a number of questions simply bursting to be answered. Mr Harris gave some insight into the recipient of the medals, Mr Willimott-Watson, who died in 1950 and was buried in St Marys cemetery. The medals were from the British Navy and were from World War One, they’d been awarded to Mr Willimott-Watson for extraordinary efforts in the war. After the war Mr WillimottWatson moved to Australia and to western Sydney, but there isn’t much else known about him. What were the medals doing in an old abandoned unit block? How did they get there? What happened to Harry WillimottWatson and why did he decide to move to Australia after the war? Did he have family here and if so where are they now? Hopefully when Mr WillimottWatson’s British relative picks up the long lost medals some more answers can by found. We will keep on this story and will continue to update with any new information.
7 Nepean News 2 February 2017 Issue 193
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Western News 3 Febuary 2017 Issue 27
THE G SPOT
DOES anyone remember the song “everybody was Kung Fu Fighting”? I always think to myself, surely to God not everyone was Kung Fu fighting; there had to be a few in the toilet or at the queue at the bar. The song always makes me remember the early days in the clubs and pubs, when it was almost tradition to have an all-in-brawl at the end of a great night, the club managers would order us security people to start removing bar stools and anything of value at about 10.30pm in preparation for the males in a gorilla brawl. If you didn’t lose 20 glasses and (glass ashtrays in those days) on a Saturday night, then we would statistically place that down as an unsuccessful night. It was almost like the International Frisbee throwing championships to see how far a glass could go across the room. If there was half a beer in it then that was a bonus throw and 100 points. (If you didn’t spill any of course). There was some of the best windmill punching and hitting like nothing you had ever seen in your life. All we needed was to add Lycra and it would have been the latest “workout video” for drunks. The ironic thing was that at the end, people would all be hugging (after beating each other up) telling
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each other how much they “Wuv you, no I wuv you more” slobber slobber and then clear themselves out, staggering out like newlyweds. Jobs done! We would say, security (tick), club cleared (tick), three broken teeth and not one bar stool broken (tick). Ahh yes them’s was the days. Back in those days cops could legally moonlight as security guards and most worked on clubs and pubs doors, can I tell you, no one played up at those places (Hell no), violence was almost at zero (besides the off duty cops kicking the crap out of you) and people got just deserts if they played up. Would I have those days back again? Yes and no, possibly without the amount of corruption that went on, but the authority side of things I would have back in a heartbeat. I will clarify, with the old time hard cops not the fluffy brigade of today. It seems as the levels of violence are escalating the softer we are all becoming, ironic, almost bordering on stupidity. (No tick). Anyway, so now its toupee or not toupee this is the question, love him or hate him, Trump is there and he seems to be on everyone’s lips. I am successfully placing myself into a self-induced coma when people
start talking about it now, it’s really fun, you are in a morphine state but are able nod in agreement at the same time. To be frank, I do like leaders with gonads, which we do appear to lack a lot of representation in this nether region, however it’s going to be a “Watch this space” for me. I was waiting for the Earth to drop from the solar system after the election (As peoples T-shirts and banners said) but we are still here, so I guess we are still all okay. One has got to ask one’s self, are we really panicking for nothing? Or should we really move to the Red Planet? So what exactly is this article about you must be asking yourself? Well, it’s a Sunday, it’s hot, I have read all the crap on social media, drinking a coffee and decided to ponder the navel a bit, perhaps even pick fluff from it. Let’s just say this article is about reflection, deflection and enlightenment. The closest I will come to Kung Fu Fighting is when I walk into a spider web; I become the best martial artist in the world. So there you have it avid G Spotters, a quick review on nothing at all. Just like the Seinfeld series a show about nothing!
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Valentine’s Day: shower your honey with love! By Kerrie Davies
VALENTINE’S DAY is fast approaching - the most romantic day on the calendar. Many lovers will shower each other with gifts, hopefuls will choose the day to declare love to an often unaware conquest and others will agree to tie the knot. In a changing world where there’s some push to de-genderise just about everything, I’m going to risk all, bare my old-fashioned soul and declare that this day is one of utmost importance to the ladies! Uber-feminists might want to hang me from my bra straps, but I’m putting it out there that in general the female species yearns for love and to be shown love. Valentine’s Day represents a day of hope when there’s someone out there we fantasise will fall madly in love with us. Its the day of judgement for those fellas who’ve just started dating us. And for those in long-term relationships and happy marriages, it can be the day of ensuring we still feel loved. For troubled relationships, its the day of reckoning. But for the ladies who have no current love interest, it can be Single Person Awareness Day. (SPAD) If you’re in the loved-up category, its a good idea to be mindful of the feelings of those friends in the SPAD
phase, they probably don’t want to hear all about the perfect roses, perfect chocolates and perfect hand-written poems you received from your perfect boyfriend... 27 times. They’ll get it the first time you say it. And I have some tips for the lads, too. If you want a lady to know how you feel about her, take the punt and aim cupid’s arrow in her direction send her some flowers! The worst that can happen is you’ll be a few bucks out of pocket, and if the same spark isn’t felt by her, at least she’ll always refer
to you as “that sweet guy.” If you’re in a new relationship and wondering if it is too soon, I have one point to make. It is NEVER too soon. Married guys who think its all commercial BS - get off the platform on this one - steal some flowers out of the nearest garden and present them to her. Blokes who’ve not been the greatest partner they could have been - shell out a few bucks, get a bouquet and write some nice words in a card. A bit of sly cash and ten minutes worth of effort
could reverse a multitude of sins in one hit. Do it. And even though I think Valentines Day is a special day on many a female’s calendar, there’s definitely some guys out there who rate it too. So girls, if you’re dating a SNAG, married to a romantic or not been the best partner you could have been yourself, shower your honey with love and show them what they mean to you. Happy Valentines Day! (Hopefully my husband reads this, ps I love red roses)
Bright lights raise money By Keegan Thomson
A MOTHER and daughter pair from Colyton have raised over $3000 for local charity, Rosie’s Place, through a very bright initiative. Last year Nepean News spoke to Sharon and Ebony Peach, two community minded small business people, who set out to raise money through the use of their very bright and wonderfully luminescent Christmas lights. Across a number of weeks the pair managed to raise more than $3000 for local children’s charity, Rosie’s Place, thanks to their some 350,000 Christmas lights. Josene Perri, the Administration Manager at Rosie’s Place, said people like Sharon and Ebony help bridge their widening funding gaps. “Funding is always an issue for us so people like Sharon and Ebony are amazing. We’re so thankful for their support,” Ms Perri said. The funds raised by Sharon and Ebony will go into the production of a special children’s booklet published by Rosie’s Place.
Sharon and Ebony Peach decorated their home with some 350,000 lights. Photo: Kennedi Geyer.
“We have a booklet called, Popcorns and Jellybeans, it is a children’s activity booklet. It is about empowering kids and getting them to look at themselves in a positive way. “We want to help children recognise their hopes and dreams,” Ms Perri said. The booklet will pay tribute to Sharon and Ebony’s contributions to Rosie’s Place with a special mention inside.
“In the front we’re going to thank the efforts put in by Sharon and Ebony and their tireless contributions,” she said. Sharon Peach said she chose Rosie’s Place as her charity of choice because “it holds a special place in our heart”. Rosie’s Place focuses on helping children and teenagers who’ve been the subject of different forms of violence and trauma. They’ve been
operating in western Sydney for the last 30 years. Each Christmas Sharon and Ebony work together to raise money for Rosie’s Place through their brilliant Christmas light installations. Last year Ebony told us it took her nearly six weeks to set up all the lights. In 2016 the pair’s display went viral after Ebony shared their handy work on social media. After Sharon and Ebony handed over their raised funds, Sharon gave us a little insight into their 2017 Christmas set up. “It is going to be bigger than ever,” she said. “We have a sleigh that is so big and heavy that it took four men to take it off a truck.” It is fair to say Colyton will be a brighter suburb come Christmas 2017.
Blacktown hope to break haka record
Josene Perri, Ebony and Sharon Peach. Photo: Kennedi Geyer.
By Conner Lowe
WESTERN Sydney are hoping to break the haka record currently held by the French. The record breaking attempt will be staged at Blacktown Showground at 10:30am on Saturday, 4th February. Blacktown is calling on all of Sydney to help it set the Guinness World Record for staging the haka. The current haka record of 4,028 was set in France by Frenchy rugby fans in September 2014, toppling the previous record of 3,264 set in New Zealand during 2008. The widely known “Ka Mate” version of the haka will be performed, which has a link to Blacktown through its New Zealand sister city, Porirua, the birthplace of its author, the Maori warrior Te Rauparaha. Councillor Stephen Bali, Mayor of Blacktown City wants all of Sydney to partake in the event and help break the haka record. “It’s outrageous that the record for the haka should be held by a European country…Let’s bring the haka record back down under,” he said. “You don’t have to be a New Zealander to take part, and we will be coached by experts. “I issue a challenge for everyone in Sydney to be part of this world
record attempt...I’m thrilled for our community that we’ve got a haka that we can do together, all of us,” he said. Rawiri Ita, Chairman of Maori Wardens Australia, said the group was optimistic Blacktown could break the record, and was aiming for a target of 6,000 people.
“Even 1,000 people performing the haka will have the hairs on your neck standing up,” he said. “Whether we are successful or not in setting the record, the rendition of the haka on the day will be a powerful message, one of cultural identity. “We have always been passionate
about our culture - and never so more when we do the haka.” Mr Ita said the event was open to people of all ages and backgrounds, not just those of Maori descent. “The “Ka Mate” haka we will perform on the day is the same version that the New Zealand All Blacks perform, so it is well known. “We will also have plenty of Kiwis on the day to show everyone else how it is done,” he said. Registrations for the attempt open at 9:00am with each participant receiving an official wristband. Rehearsals begin from 9:30am. Blacktown City Council is the reporting agency for the Guinness Book of World Records, which has endorsed the attempt.The world record attempt is part of a full day of celebrations at the Showground where a range of cultural activities is planned including singing and dancing. Waitangi Day, named after Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed, commemorates a significant day in the history of New Zealand. It is observed as a public holiday each year on 6 February to celebrate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document, on that date in 1840. Waitangi Day Festival is at the Blacktown Showground from 10:00am to 4:00pm.
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10 Western News 3 Febuary 2017 Issue 27
St. Matthew’s Church Windsor celebrates 200 years
by Paul Wheeldon
O
N Saturday, 12th November 2016 at 4.00 pm the book, ‘St. Matthew’s Windsor – an Anglican Landmark celebrating 200 years’ was launched by Professor the Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO. The book, by Ian Jack and Jan Barley-Jack in conjunction with St. Matthew’s Anglican Church Windsor, has been produced to begin the Bicentennial Year of this famous church. A little after sunset on Saturday, the 11th day of October 1817, the cornerstone of St. Matthew’s Church was laid by Governor Macquarie, and after depositing the rim of a Spanish dollar, with the circular bit struck out of its middle (the currency of the Colony), which pass for six shillings and threepence sterling, His Excellency, in a very impressive tone of voice, said‘God prosper St. Matthew’s Church,’ gently striking the stone three times with a mason’s mallet; the same ceremony was performed severally by the whole of the gentlemen which accompanied His Excellency from the Government House to the spot. The cornerstone having been removed and the money stolen early in the evening in which it was deposited by the Governor, this evening, about the same time, the corner-stone was re-laid by His Excellency, and a dollar deposited underneath it by the Rev. Robert Cartwright,
Monday, 13th October 1817. This was witnessed by His Honour Lieut.Governor Erskine, of the 43rd Regiment, Major Antill, D. Allan, Esq., Commissary-General, Rev. Henry Fulton, William Cox, Esq, chief Magistrate of the Hawkesbury, Mr Surgeon Mileham, J.P., several gentlemen, and the most respectable inhabitants of Windsor. (1) Later the whole party retired to the Macquarie Arms Inn for supper, except Mr Cartwright. November, 1817. – The dollar deposited under the corner-stone of St. Matthew’s Church by the Rev. Mr Cartwright, was again stolen a few nights afterwards…. It is supposed that the corner-stone was thrown down each time and the money stolen by some of the indigent convicts employed by the Public Works in the town of Windsor. (1) It was not until finally on 18th December 1822 that the church was consecrated and opened for divine worship by the Rev. Samuel Marsden, assisted by the Rev. Messrs Cross, Cartwright and Hassall. St. Matthew’s is an enduring monument to Francis Greenway’s great talents and has been preserved in almost its original state. Reference: St. Matthew’s, Windsor, Parish Register, 1813-1825. Extracted from Bowd, D.G., Macquarie Country, A History of the Hawkesbury
Blacktown citizens rewarded for outstanding community work By Conner Lowe
B L A C K TO W N citizens rewarded for outstanding community work. Girl Guides volunteer leader Angela Ayton from Marayong has been named Blacktown City’s Citizen of the Year. “Mrs Ayton started her guiding career some 27 years ago in Marayong district when her daughters joined the local Brownie unit,” said the Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali. “She went on to lead the older girls in the senior guide unit for the Ettamogah division while also being an integral part of the district management team. “In addition to volunteering countless hours at fundraisers and working bees, she has provided invaluable mentoring to young leaders and to the many girls who have passed through her units, and have been the better for having known her.” Blacktown City’s Young Citizen of the Year, is Sanjana Muthukumar from Parklea. “Miss Muthukumar is an exemplary young leader who makes
many positive contributions to her community,” said Mayor Bali. “She is an active citizen, volunteering weekly at the Stanhope Library, the Adventist Aged Care facility and at The Children’s Hospital in Westmead where she spent over 100 hours in service last year. “A prefect at Girraween High School and a Gold Duke of Edinburgh leader, she participated in the Blacktown Relay for Life and
attended the International Women’s Day Conference at Parliament House. “Her perseverance and dedication is an inspiration for young people, and her efforts are commendable.” Blacktown City’s Community Event of the Year is the Anita Cobby 30th Anniversary Dinner. “The anniversary dinner to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Anita Cobby’s death was attended by
750 people, including NSW Governor David Hurley and former State Premier Mike Baird,” said Mayor Bali. “The event raised more than $189,000 for construction of a world-first residential care centre for family members of homicide victims, particularly children. “It was organised by retired Chief Inspector Gary Raymond and sponsored by the Blacktown Workers Club. “Anita’s parents, the late Garry and Grace Lynch, told Mr Raymond they always hoped that ‘something good would come out of something so bad’. “The generosity of those who organised and attended the event illustrates that yes, ‘something good is coming from something so bad’.” The award winners were announced by Mayor Bali at a special Australia Day ceremony held at Bowman Hall in Blacktown. “Congratulations to both Angela Ayton and Sanjana Muthukumar on winning these awards. Their achievements and commitment to the local community are a wonderful reflection of the great people we have in Blacktown City”, said Mayor Bali.
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Go bananas and see “the Monkees live again!” AFTER nine years performing the highly successful “The 3Bs Show” featuring the Bee Gees, Beatles and Beach Boys, we decided to look towards performing an additional show with a band that was just as successful in the sixties. The Monkees appealed to us, and along with their highly popular TV show, the Monkees were without doubt one of the most successful bands from the sixties with hits such as “Daydream Believer”, “I’m a Believer”, “Last Train to Clarksville” and “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone”, just to name a few. In 1967 the Monkees records even outsold The Beatles and The Rolling Stones combined!! The music really rocks, and yet maintains the subtleties and warmth of the Davy Jones ballads, along with the light hearted energy the Monkees are famous for. The Monkees were enhanced by many famous song writers that contributed to their repertoire. Among them are such legends as Neil Diamond, Carole King, Boyce & Hart and Nilsson. This explains the continued depth of appeal across the Australian continent for their music and why the music is still played frequently on classic radio stations from coast to coast. The music still lives in the hearts of the people from the era, and is renewed in the younger generation to the point where nearly everyone has heard of the Monkees, or at least knows some of their music. When the Monkees
is mentioned, it is surprising how many people brighten up at the thought of them. They inspire a happy carefree feeling.
This is a night to relive the hits of the Monkees with this easy going and fun loving band to bring back those happy carefree feelings. “The Monkees Live Again” are: Ron Gaydon: Lead singer and guitarist from the very popular “The 3Bs Show” for the last 10 years. Ron has taken on the vocals of Davy Jones, guitar and percussion with passion. Brett Slade: Drummer and vocalist for “The 3Bs Show” since September 2010, Brett has taken on the roll of Micky Dolenz with zest. Paul Dengate: Crazy Paul has been the sound guy for the 3Bs since the beginning. He has taken on the vocals of Michael Nesmith and looks after the bass guitar rhythm. Steve McLoughlin: Steve has worked in many tribute bands over the years, including more recently “The Billy Joel Tribute” and “A Tribute to the Doors”. Steve has taken on the roll of Peter Tork and looks after keyboard arrangements for the band. Steve teaches saxophone and brass and has added another dimension to the live music arrangements that help make this an exciting show to see. Steve also highlights on vocals in Peter’s send up song, “Auntie Griselda”. Playing at the Diamond Showroom at Workers Blacktown on Saturday, 25th February, 2017 at 8pm. Tickets $8 members; $12 visitors.
Opinion: Political Musical Chairs NSW style By Bart Bassett
WITH a new Premier and a new Cabinet in NSW I wish them well because we need a successful government for us all to benefit now and into the future. The pressing question now is will we have a new direction. There are few things to focus on regarding some new Ministerial titles and the statement by the Premier regarding the need to address housing affordability as well, is one big concern for western Sydney MPs especially the new Minister for WestConnex. I understand why the Premier has established a Minister for Counter Terrorism what I don’t understand is why it wouldn’t rest with the Police Minister rather than the Corrective Services Minister, it seems very odd. Whilst the Minister is purely the PR face for counter terrorism it does need legitimacy and for that to occur you need someone with the knowledge and professional reputation to give it the important recognition it deserves. For that to occur I strongly believe the next major job for the Premier is to do all she can to encourage Mr Nick Kaldas, the retired outstanding Assistant Police Commissioner, to apply for the Police Commissioner position as his knowledge and expertise in counter terrorism is second to none. Next major job is the housing affordability issue which we have been
constantly told by many leaders is about creating greater supply of land. As we have been highlighting and campaigning for in Western News, the answer to accessible jobs, investment and the relocation of government departments is access to great public transport. The way to create more affordable housing in western Sydney is to commit to a timetable to deliver that public transport. The connecting of the Sydney Metro Northwest to the South West Rail Link and onto Badgerys Creek is the catalyst that will facilitate these initiatives being successful and with the CEO of QANTAS stating this week that he wants to see Badgerys Creek Airport as the home of Jetstar it’s obvious that the government needs to commit to build the rail line as quickly as possible which will create
the investment opportunities western Sydney needs and deserves into the future. Then there is the issue that I discussed in last month’s column, the World Cup of Polo 2017. The Premier has said Local Government amalgamations are under review and the new Minister for Local Government Gabriel Upton has already shown her hand when she supported the anti-amalgamation protests some time back in her safe State seat in the eastern suburbs of Vaucluse. Everyone needs to remember that each Local Government area can make or break the Government’s overarching agenda depending on their own agenda. As outlined last month some past and present Hawkesbury City councillors have been trying to undermine the Polo World Cup to be held on the
Richmond Lowlands this year. That coordinated minority group has realised that most people see the World Cup as a benefit so therefore in the last week have changed their language to suggest they are not against the World Cup and all the international attention it will bring. They just want it run out of tents! In other words a second rate country show! This is an example of when the State Government needs to have the intestinal fortitude to step in and say a council doesn’t have the maturity to be the approval authority for a large international event which will bring important long term benefit for western Sydney. The Premier and the numerous Ministers responsible need to recognise early when a Council is acting unprofessionally and not in the interests of the long term economic benefits for western Sydney or the public image of NSW and take control of the approval process. Lastly, I feel for the new Minister for Western Sydney and Minister for WestConnex Stuart Ayers. He will have his work cut out convincing western Sydney residents that the reintroduction of tolls on the M4 as part of the WestConnex project is good for them. Labor will use the reintroduction of the tolls to target sitting Liberal MPs in the seats of Parramatta, Mulgoa and Penrith in the lead up to the 2019 NSW State election. Hold on it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
Tourists and Turtles Stopping for lunch
Turtle hatchling
By Ben Cranney
AFTER the Amazon, we went to the Galapagos Islands. If animals are your thing, it outshines the Amazon, but is considerably more expensive and a bit less personal. We spent a long time researching which islands to go to, as each has different animals and landscapes. But after going, it’s fair to say that none are a disappointment. The highlight was snorkelling with sea lions. From the moment we got off the plane, we’d seen plenty on land lounging around, having very
The Iguana Trail
awkward fights, and walking with less grace than a drunk on a tight rope. But in the water, they are one of the most elegant animals that I have ever seen. The pups and mums whizzed by, perhaps curious to see who had joined them, or to see if we’d play. And then a huge grey shape would hurtle past. On its second pass, I realised it was the bull sea lion. It moved with such grace and controlled power, I remember thinking ‘how could anything else but this be king of the seas?’ I also made sure to do nothing that it might take as a threat. The other animals provoked similar
awe. From the wisdom behind the face of the 100 year old turtles sitting patiently on the sea floor, to the size of the lizards lounging in the sun, the penguins diving from the rocks or the dolphins that escorted us as we boated from island to island. It was easy to see how an inquisitive mind might be inspired by this place to come up with the theory of evolution. And we could get so close to the animals, sometimes within a flipper’s length. Depending on the island, there are a number of watering holes to watch the sunset from, or get a cheap seafood meal, cooked on the side of the road
Seals on the beach
and eaten at makeshift tables. We also found a karaoke bar in a tin shed. Don’t tell anyone, but I apparently made ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams my own that night. Even if animals aren’t your thing, the natural beauty is captivating, from the sunsets, to Fernandina Caldera, which is a giant volcano crater that you can hike around, to little bays that feel like they should be in an oil painting. Or if you want to try a different continent with plenty of unique animals, try an African safari. I’ll share this one with you next time.
The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel The Other Side of the Coin I DO hope you all had a lovely Australia Day. I know I did as I became an Australian, something of which I am very proud. It was a very moving ceremony with some inspirational speeches and the thing that impressed me the most was the idea of starting afresh and going forward with courage and optimism. At my advanced age it made me feel that there was so much to do and look forward to. However, January is named after the Roman God Janus who had two faces, one looking to the future and the other to the past. What made me think back was that next Monday my old Daddy would have been ninety-seven. He was a great old boy, a larrikin whose facade of English Colonel hid the spirit of Sergeant Bilko. However, when he was sixty, he decided he was old and so became old and so for the next twenty odd years we were forever on tenterhooks as to whether he was about to fall off his perch. He encouraged this belief by unplugging the telephone whenever we went away so we thought something had happened to him and neighbours had to be called to investigate. He had had a difficult marriage as my mother was an unfortunate woman, but when the gin finally took hold and she began to lose her marbles, my
father was like a saint, to all intents and purposes looking after her like an angel. She used to complain that he was cruel to her, but based on his behaviour and the fact that she was not a very pleasant woman, the whole family ignored her and Daddy basked smugly in our approbation. A few weeks ago, I told you about my friend Stephen’s wonderful near death experience and how the Afterlife was so fantastic that he didn’t want to come back. Not so in Daddy’s case!
After a weekend of numerous falls and no submissions, our local GP said he should go into hospital for a few days to stabilise him. No panic! Can you imagine how shocked I was when the next morning the hospital called to say he was dying and would not last the day. His heart and kidneys had given out and we should get there as soon as possible. My daughter and I rushed to the hospital where we found him in a coma. The specialist took us to one side. “I’m afraid he’s going” he said. “He may
last another day but no more.” Lulu and I couldn’t believe it, but suddenly we heard from behind the curtains, “No, there’s no Mrs Hayman here. Get her off me. Save me.” The doctor said it was the morphine, but we knew different. We knew Mummy was after him! Against all odds, he came round magnificently and was resettled in a lovely nursing home, but over the next few months, we kept getting summoned as he was breathing his last and muttering “Get her off me.” The Matron even apologised and said that it had never happened before as they usually knew when the end was nigh. Eventually the time came, but once again he survived. I was in his room and even though he was unconscious I could feel his fear. I became aware of my grandparents and my aunt forming a protective shield around him. I took his hand and said, “It’s alright Daddy. There are only people here who love you.” An hour later, he died peacefully. So through the good offices of Gran & Co he was saved and Mummy didn’t get her revenge, but it is a bit of a lesson for us. Revenge is after all a dish best eaten cold. The Unintentional Medium is available from all good book stores and on line.
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Western News 3 Febuary 2017 Issue 27
FIND THE RIGHT HOME LOAN AND SAVE $1,000S OFF YOUR MORTGAGE! WHEN deciding on a home loan, the choice of whether to choose a packaged home loan or a basic home loan is suitable for you, it is important to assess whether the features offered in the package outweigh the overall costs. In recommending home loans bundled with other finance products or package home loans, you could save many tens of thousands over the 25-30 year life of a home loan according to new research from CANSTAR. The key savings factor in these package home loans is the discounted home loan interest rate which can vary significantly from the standard rate offered and from bank to bank. While the average rate for a standalone loan is 4.52%, variable rates can drop from 20 basis points for bundled loan with some finance products and
variable rates savings can increase up to 50 basis points when a package home loans is chosen. In some cases depending on loan size savings can be higher. These savings can add up to more than $30,000 to $40,000 for the 25year life of the loan for a typical $350,000 mortgage. In a package home loan which involves combining your home loan and other commonly-used financial products into one bundle, there are usually other fee and cost waivers for credit cards, transaction accounts, insurance, ATM charges etc contained within to increase savings. In return for packaging all the products together, the financial institution will charge you one annual fee of around $300/year to $400/year that covers it all, as opposed to paying
separate account-keeping fees or insurance premiums on each product. Finding a suitable package When deciding whether a package loan is suitable, you need to assess whether the features offered outweighed the overall costs. If you don’t require a whole suit of new products and prefer a basic product rather then paying an annual fee for products you may never use. Basic home loans don’t have all the bells and whistles but may prove to be a better solution as the variable rates offered are very competitive and may find this more affordable with only the features you need. You should do the numbers and compare features of the package loans like for like. Each financial institution have everyday banking products, transaction accounts, savings
accounts, insurance, but many of these features are all not always the same. The first step is to consider the annual fee for the package home loan and highlight any other fee waivers or discounts being offered. This process will help you work out if the numbers meet your situation. It can be difficult to understand all features on offer with the many different products from the many lenders. That’s why it’s important do the sums and make a like-for-like comparison to make sure that you’re getting the right features in your home loan. To get a better understanding speak to Alex Soncini at Wealthwiz Wealth Management for a free home loan review. Contact Alex Soncini on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@ welathwiz.com.au.
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CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Arrange by categories (8) 5 Refrained from harming (6) 9 Uses up (8) 10 Relating to the iris of the eye (6) 12 Approaches (5) 13 Sweet edible berry (9) 14 Split (6) 16 From Belgium (7) 19 Connote (7) 21 Vapors (6) 23 Unlawfully (9) 25 Not sooner (5) 26 The inside of a pants leg (6) 27 Not the long way around (8) 28 Console (6) 29 A sunken engraving (8)
solution 20/1/17
DOWN 1 Cyphering (6) 2 Attracting (9) 3 Outdoor storage buildings (5) 4 Something provided without charge (7) 6 Conic curves (9) 7 Detection device (5) 8 Rotting (8) 11 Bushback (4) 15 Trademark or signature (9) 17 The same (9) 18 Becomes bony (8) 20 Shout (4) 21 Winged monster (7) 22 A small cave (6) 24 Lariat (5) 25 Insect stage (5)
Ex-Socceroo signs for Wanderers By Conner Lowe
THE NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers have announced the signing of Ryan Griffiths until the end of the 2016/17 season. The talented talisman will join the club for the remainder of the Hyundai A-League season and the Wanderers third entry into the AFC Champions League. Signing from South China SS from the Hong Kong Premier League, the striker arrived to training to link up with his new team mates for the first time today. Speaking before his first session Griffiths said he was happy to join the club and ready to give 100 per cent. “It’s definitely exciting times and I was very excited to come here when Tony Popovic called me and asked if I was available and he was really enthusiastic to get me back,” said Griffiths. “That was something that showed me a lot of respect. I’ve heard a lot of good things about him as a coach. “I wanted to join the squad and come back and do well for Western Sydney in the ACL and the league and give 100 per cent that’s for sure,” he said.
someone who could play with the club for many years. However, Griffiths brings a lot of experience with him to the club and the Wanderers coaching staff believe that is what the team need to score more goals this season. The Wanderers have already released Kerem Bulut this season and with a history of strikers unable to impress in the No. 9 position, Griffiths will have to prove himself to the Wanderers fans. Griffiths will train for the first time today at Wanderers Blacktown base and will be eligible for the match against Wellington Phoenix this weekend.
With a wealth of experience playing in Asia and in Australia, most notably for Beijing Guoan and Newcastle Jets, Griffiths will add another threat to the Wanderers attack.
Doosan Bears beat hibernation at Blacktown International Sportspark
THERE is no hibernating for the Korean Major League Baseball team, the Doosan Bears, who have held their Spring Training camp for the second consecutive year at Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney this month. Based in South Korea, the Bears are the reigning 2016 Korean Baseball Organisation champions and will spend a month at the Sportspark preparing for the upcoming 2017 season. They will train at the Sportspark from Tuesday 31 January to Wednesday 22 February 2017. Doosan Bears are one of the most competitive baseball teams in Korea, claiming five titles and producing players that have played in Major league competitions in the USA and Japan.
“The Sportspark has continued to develop a strong reputation as a destination for international teams in the serious business of preparing for their players ahead of new seasons. Already this year, we have hosted 9 international teams across cricket, softball and baseball” said Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali, “I look forward to meeting with the Doosan Bears again this year, and watching one of the best baseball teams train ahead of the return of Baseball to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.” For more information, visit www.blacktownsportspark.com. au, or contact Baseball NSW on 02 9675 6872.
Wanderers fans will be hoping that Griffiths is the answer to their trouble in front of goal this season. Griffiths is 35-years-old and many fans believe the Wanderers should have signed
Player Profile: Ryan Griffiths Born: 21/08/1981 Nationality: Australian Position: Forward Senior Clubs Northern Spirit (1999-2002), Manly-Warringah (2002), Newcastle Jets (2002-2004), Naţional Bucureşti (2004-2006), Rapid Bucureşti (20062009), Liaoning (2007-2008) on loan, Beijing Guoan (2009) on loan, Beijing Guoan (2010), Newcastle Jets (20112013), Beijing Baxy (2013), Adelaide United (2014), Sarawak (2014-2015), South China (2016-2017)
East Coast Arabian Championships
Three competitors line up on Friday night for the judges. Photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)
By Noel Rowsell
THE East Coast Arabian Horse Championships were held in Sydney last week, at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre, Horsley Park. The Championships are an annual event, run by the NSW Arabian Horse Association, and were celebrating their thirtieth anniversary at this year’s event. Regarded as one of the most
prestigious and anticipated events on the Arabian Show calendar, five hundred horses were presented in three hundred classes, over four days of competition. Events started early each day and finished late at night for many of the competitors, in front of small but enthusiastic audiences. Saturday night was Finals Night and was the highlight of the week, with a sell-out crowd in attendance at the ‘black-tie’ affair.
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Oakhurst girl signs for Midland College By Noel Rowsell
PENRITH Panthers Youth League centre Ella Tofaeono (Oakhurst) enjoyed an extraordinary year in 2016, winning a premiership title with her Youth League Women’s team and taking out both the Best Defensive Player award and selection into the All-Star Five for that competition. Those awards were fitting recognition for Tofaeono, who was second in the Overall Point-Scoring Top Ten and first in two-point scoring during the outstanding season. Tofaeono subsequently won the Karen Dalton Junior Metro Female Player of the Year award, followed by selection in the NSW Under 20 Women’s team. The state selection was however nullified when Tofaeono ruptured her ACL, before undergoing surgery at the start of 2017. Her recovery is currently on track and has been boosted by a scholarship offer from Midlands College in the United States for the 2017/18 NCAA season.
Penrith Panthers Youth League centre Ella Tofaeono in action during the 2016 Youth League season. Photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)
Tofaeono will head to the States in August but will not be able to train or play until either December / January.
Her Junior before senior
plan is to attend the College for two seasons, hopefully moving on to a college for the next two
seasons, then back to Australia for the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) competition.