AdedicAted community volunteer, an inspiring First Nations youth leader, a passionate local environmental advocate and a vital flood recovery hub – have been recognised in this year’s Blacktown city Australia day Awards.
council recognised 4 outstanding recipients at a special ceremony held on Australia Day, attended by the NSW Governor, Her excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM congratulated the recipients of the City’s most prestigious awards and commended them for their outstanding contributions to their local community.
“this Australia day, we recognise the unwavering efforts of some of our City’s amazing individuals and organisations,” Mr Bleasdale said.
“Their contributions stretch far and wide and can be seen in education, health, fundraising, charitable and voluntary services, business, sport, the arts, and the environment
“These awards pay tribute to all their hard work, that has boosted the wellbeing and furthered the advancement of the greater Blacktown community.
“I also thank the incredible nominees for their tireless efforts in our community, and whose work will ensure Blacktown city continues to flourish into the future.”
The 2023 Blacktown City Australia Day Awards were awarded to:
Citizen of the Year - Yusra Zafar
Yusra Zafar has volunteered
with an array of organisations and groups – from cooking and cleaning in mosques during Ramadan prayer time, to teaching religion in public schools.
She is passionate about helping the less fortunate through community fundraising events including: dollars for Dignity for local flood victims, raising money for Pakistani flood victims and victims of tsunamis and earthquakes around the world.
She recently joined the Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association of NSW (MDAA) as both a volunteer and advocate to support people of all abilities achieve their goals.
Yusra is also passionate about helping victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. She has partnered with NSW Police to deliver awareness campaigns in her native language to educate new migrant members of the community on the effects of bullying and other abuse.
Young Citizen of the Year –Emma Hoskins
emma is an inspiring young citizen of Blacktown City who has contributed to her community in a variety of ways, through school, sport, charity and culture.
As a proud Wiradjuri, Gamillaraay girl living and learning on darug land, emma ensures that she shares her culture with her community by leading school ceremonies and assemblies, conducting Acknowledgement of Country, teaching dance, establishing a bush tucker garden and producing quality and award-winning Aboriginal artwork.
emma is a part of the Blacktown Youth Advisory committee where she enjoys collaborating with the youth of Blacktown city and regularly participates at formal council events.
emma is an all-round star student, athlete, community representative and cultural ambassador who is making her mark in the world.
Environmental Citizen of the Year – Melvin Gray through his involvement with the Rotary Club of Blacktown City, Melvin introduced the ‘Adopt a Road Campaign’ program to Blacktown city council 20 years ago.
This program brings the community together to voluntarily ‘adopt’ a road and take pride in the community by tidying it up and keeping it clean.
Nothing says ‘community pride’ more than a clean streetscape and the benefits this provides to the environment have been plentiful thanks to Melvin’s leadership with this initiative.
The North West Business Chamber was instrumental in securing support from public disaster agencies and Council in order to service the floodaffected people in Riverstone.
After experiencing 4 floods in 2 years, the vulnerable people living on the flood plain in Riverstone found themselves disengaged from services and public agencies.
The chamber managed to improve access to essential support for floodaffected households by successfully securing and hosting a recovery assistance point for the community.
The chamber also developed a donation and volunteer campaign, which generated $51,000 for people worst-affected by the disaster.
They hosted a flood pop up shop that became a community hub for volunteering, donations and community connection and their approach was recognised as best practice.
WeSteRN Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has celebrated the career of Penny Clark, Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) and Co-Clinical Lead for the Communicable Diseases Surveillance Team, as she retires from her post as a core member of the WSLHD family.
Penny has been a part of WSLHD since 1979, working as a General Nurse at Parramatta Hospital before moving to the Department Manager role for Infection Control at Blacktown Hospital in 2000.
She spent 12 years in this role before moving to the WSLHD Public Health Unit, where she served the community for 10 years.
During her career, Penny has worked at baby clinics, community and multicultural health settings in Fairfield, Cabramatta and Villawood, nursing positions at Residential
Aged Care Facilities (RACF), and even as a tutor at Western Sydney University.
Penny said “Providing comfort and care to patients at the end of their life has been one of the most memorable and important parts of my career. It has been a pleasure and an honour to meet and collaborate with so many wonderful people in the district during my career.
“I will miss the robust discussions, hugs and many laughs (and of course, the singing!).
“A workplace is never about the individual – thank you to all my team members for enriching my life,” she concluded. in retirement, Penny is taking up some volunteer opportunities in the RAcF and NdiS sector, participating in the Secret Garden project at Richmond, and has travel plans around Greece and Australia.
The Rooty hill & District Naval Association and the City of Blacktown RSL sub-Branch joined forces to celebrate WW2 veteran emanuel Micallef’s 100th Birthday. Supported by his family emanuel was treated to a 100th Birthday Party organised by the Naval Association and the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch.
This wonderful milestone was made more memorable with congratulation letters from his Majesty King Charles III, the Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese and the his excellency General the honourable David hurley AC DSC (Retd). emanuel’s birthday was a wonderful event showcasing what Veteran organizations can do. Seeing emanuel’s legacy of life and service is
important. But the best moments of the day was watching his family and friends support him.
The Rooty hill & District Naval Association and the City of Blacktown RSL sub-Branch started visiting Emanuel when they were notified by a nursing home, that emanuel was in the area. As a result, both the RSL and the Naval Association commenced regular visits. emanuel also holds another important legacy, he worked on the Snowy River Scheme and the Opera house. President of the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch Bradley Lawless said “Emanuel’s WWII service was selfless and brave. he served with distinction, and we enjoy the fruits of your service emanuel. Your service didn’t stop at the end of the War, every time we drive
past the opera house or the snowy river scheme we acknowledge your blood, sweat and tears are concreted in their foundations. Thank you for your service.”
emanuel (Leli) Micallef joined the Royal Navy and progressed to an able Seaman and Quartermaster on hMS Ploughboy a Drifter Class Minesweeper. hMS Ploughboy was severely damaged whilst clearing mines on the 1st of March 1941. The explosions caused by the mines resulted in the death of 4 of sailors and injured many others. emanuel, who was on the ship at the time, was lucky to survive. hMS Ploughboy was left in a dangerous condition and had to be beached to prevent her from sinking.
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By K E RRIE DAVIESThe Daily Telegraph ran a story this week flagging frightening expected closure rates of small businesses in NSW.
The newspaper stated that a survey conducted by Business NSW revealed a staggering 30 per cent of small businesses face closure if there’s no economic change in sight.
The closing down of nearly one third of our local small businesses would be nothing short of catastrophic. The economic, product and service loss would cripple our state. And that’s before we even begin to think of the job losses.
The weight that small business owners carry, as the backbone of our economy, is huge.
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And we should know, we are a small business too. And we survive on the support of local small businesses through advertising. So if small businesses crumble, unfortunately so does your local news among other business to business operations.
As small business owners we’ve collectively been through more tumbles than a thousand clothes dryers over the last few years. We’ve all had to tackle bushfires, floods, pandemics, restrictions and lockdowns head on. Thankfully there was some government help available at the worst times, but the truth is many slipped through the cracks of entitlement. So as we all emerge, many small businesses carry eye-watering debt. Many of us went backwards trying to juggle rent, business loans, wage gaps and all the other associated costs of keeping the doors open with little to no income. So now that we’ve weathered the storm so to speak, we face a dramatic rise in interest rates, electricity and general costs of living; it is a recipe for utter disaster.
We can’t all work for the government - we need small businesses to have a thriving society.
If you’ve never owned a small business, imagine for a second, what our community would look like if they all disappeared. No restaurants, retail shops, pubs or coffee shops. Kid’s entertainment centres - gone. Hairdressers, beauticians, dentists, optometrists, medical centres, chemists! Oh my as you go through the list it gets scarier and scarier.
If you’ve ever owned one you’ll know that as a small business owner you pretty much step off a cliff on a trapeze with no safety net beneath you. There’s no such thing as a sickie if your skills are required. There’s nobody to report to if the week’s trade means you got short-paid. And when the income levels are low, the one who needs to take the hit is you.
Running a small business is certainly not for the delicate. The beast you operate will absolutely challenge your strength, dedication, stamina and most of all your resilience.
And although the challenges are huge and constant, small business owners do it because we believe in what we offer and we love doing it, so the majority of us will stick at it even when the chips are down.
With a state election looming, writing policy that ensures 30 per cent of small businesses don’t slam their doors shut will be one of the biggest jobs for whoever will form government come the end of March. Dom Perrottet and Chris Minns, please do not take the massive amount of small business owners for granted.
We are watching and waiting to hear from you.
NSW Labor will open up Prospect Reservoir for recreational activities to give families in Western Sydney a place to swim and enjoy the outdoors.
Families in Western Sydney have very little access to open, safe and affordable water areas for recreation.
This contrast between the east and west of Sydney was particularly stark during the 2021 lockdowns when eastern parts of the city were easily able to access water within their 5km radius – white those in the west were subject to far tighter restrictions.
NSW Labor will conduct a rapid feasibility study in government to inform the best way to open Prospect Reservoir for swimming and non-motorised water craft, what amenities upgrades are required, as well as ensuring there are no impacts on water supply.
Prospect Reservoir will then be opened for use for swimming, recreation around the shore, kayaking and nonmotorised craft, and where possible a section available for fishing from the shore.
Prospect Reservoir is currently used as a supplementary source for Sydney’s water supply during drought, high demand times and when other parts of the system are undergoing maintenance.
South Australia, Queensland, and the ACT have all safely opened up water supply dams and reservoirs for recreation or fishing – and given how rare outdoor water areas are for the large parts of Sydney who don’t live on the coast, it’s about time NSW did the same.
The feasibility study will be completed in time to open the reservoir for the July school holidays, which will then be subject to a 12 month trial.
A NSW Labor Government will work with local governments to provide lifeguard services for the reservoir.
Chris Minns, NSW Labor Leader said: “Families in Western Sydney have limited access to safe
and affordable water recreation – for too many, it means time and tolls spent just to get to a beach.
“This announcement will provide a nearby spot for recreational water activities for families in Western Sydney.”
Greg Warren, NSW Shadow Minister for Western Sydney said:
“2021 reminded us of the stark contrast in access to amenities between Sydney’s east and west.
“I am so proud that NSW Labor is committing to opening up Prospect Reservoir for recreational use.”
Rose Jackson, NSW Shadow Minister for Water said:
“NSW Labor will improve access to water activities for families in Western Sydney, while ensuring both the safety of recreational users as well as our city’s drinking water.”
Hugh McDermott, Member for Prospect said: “Opening Prospect Reservoir for recreational swimming is a major win for our families.
I can’t wait to take my kids swimming in the Prospect Reservoir – it’s a beautiful lake we can all finally enjoy.”
Statement from The Mayor of Blacktown City Council, Tony Bleasdale OAM:
“Blacktown City Council has been advocating for around a decade for our community to have access to the Prospect Reservoir for passive activities like swimming and sailing. I welcome the announcement by Leader of the Opposition Chris Minns to explore the opening of the Reservoir. It is a major win for families and swimming groups in the Blacktown city Community.”
“Council supports access to the Reservoir; better swimming spaces out west are needed now. Council has been in conversation with community swimming groups like the Team ACU Blacktown City Swimming Club, they tell us they are hoping for more open water swimming spaces in their local area,” Mr Bleasdale said.
Parklea Correctional Officer Sue Price believes everyone deserves a second chance and is passionate about helping inmates achieve their goals and stay out of prison.
Sue is the External Leave Manager at Parklea Correctional Centre, which involves finding inmates work with businesses on the outside as part of their preparation for re-entering the community.
She is also the Manager for Area 4, the minimum security part of the prison, and her dual role enables her to have a significant impact on rehabilitating inmates whose time in custody is coming to an end.
Sue is among 25,000 people across Australia who manage offenders in prison and in the community who were celebrated on National Corrections Day, Friday 20 January. The annual event recognises their valuable contribution to keep the community safe and rehabilitate offenders.
Sue dreamed of being a prison officer when she was a teenager and joined as soon as she was old enough.
“I love working with people and doing something different every day and corrections offers that,” Sue said.
She stayed in corrections for 10 years and then started her own landscaping business after being a horticultural overseer at a prison, and then opened a café, as she loves coffee. But she missed being an officer, so she joined the Parklea team eight years ago.
Sue has found her niche as External Release Manager and said the program is like an employment agency.
Parklea inmates work in a variety of industries, such as warehousing and logistics, construction, laundry and tyre fitting. They get paid award wages, are able to save money, pay rent to the prison and support their family.
“Many employers see it as an opportunity to give someone a go who hasn’t had a chance in the past,” Sue said.
“The advantages for the employer is they know the inmate’s background, but don’t with people off the street, and the inmate will turn up every day and if they’re sick they’ll get a call from the prison letting them know.
“Inmates appreciate the opportunity, so they go the extra mile as they’ve been given another chance.
“The hope is the inmate will impress them and they stay on after they’re released.”
Sue said the program was an important part of prison progression as it not only prepared inmates for release but also showed them they could break the cycle of re-offending.
“It allows them to reintegrate, it teaches them independence, how to budget, contribute to their
family and prepares them for real life,” Sue said.
“Everyone expects them to fail, and they’re conscious of that, but the program supports them through it.
“As a society we need to recognise people need a second chance and having inmates in stable work is a big part of that.
“If a person has done everything they need to do to become a proper member of society, then we need to help them, as they can’t do it alone. It takes a team.”
Joe* has been part of Parklea’s external leave program for six months and works at a wrecking yard.
He said the program had helped him change the way he thought and acted.
“When you first come to gaol, all you get used to is gaol. Doing this gets you back to normal life,” Joe said.
“The officers trust you to go out and I don’t think about the gaol when I’m out or what I used to do any more.”
Joe said his work mates were very welcoming and didn’t judge him for being in prison.
“From day one they made me feel comfortable and treated me like a part of the team,” Joe said.
“No one is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes, but if people want to learn from it there are people who give us a go and don’t judge us.
“Sue helps us so much, especially the ones who want help.”
Joe has a job lined up driving trucks and a forklift when he gets out of prison this year.
“It was just stupid choices that brought me here, but this time I’m never coming back.”
Parklea Correctional Centre is operated by MTC Australia on behalf of Corrective Services NSW. *Name has been changed.
WESTERN Sydney University experts talk about back to school with the school term having commenced.
Associate Professor Dr Vincent Ho – Medicine and Academic Gastroenterologist, School of Medicine
associate Professor Dr Vincent Ho leads a Translational Gastroenterology Research program at the School of Medicine focusing on basic science and clinical research in the gut. He is available to speak about food hygiene and the risks of bacteria in school lunchboxes.
“During the summer heat bacteria responsible for food poisoning can rapidly multiply. A thin slice of a well-washed tomato with 100 bacteria at 8am could contain just over 26 million bacteria by 2pm on the same day. The proper packing of food, food preparation and personal hygiene practices particularly thorough handwashing are important in reducing the chance of foodborne illness to children.”
Dr Michelle Cull – Accounting and Financial Planning, School of Business
Dr Michelle Cull is the Associate Dean, Engagement in the School of Business at Western Sydney University and a leading academic in financial planning. Michelle is also co-editor of the Financial Planning Research Journal, Vice President International Relations for the Academy of Financial Services in the United States, and member of the Financial Planning Education Council. Michelle’s research focuses on financial inclusion and financial planning education.
“In preparation for the school year, it can help to
scope out a rough schedule of anticipated school, sports and creative activities for the school year, and what resources will be required. As part of the budgeting process, parents can look to maximise any government benefits available (for example sports and creative kids vouchers), shop around for the best deals, and collaborate with other parents in sharing resources (for example, trading different sized uniforms, sports and music equipment, or buying in bulk). Preparing a budget costs nothing but it can help parents spend less and give them a sense of control.”
Dr Joanne Orlando is a leading international expert in children’s uses of technology. Dr Orlando is available to speak about the relationship between children and their use of technology within school.
“There are some inconsistencies with the relationship between children and technology. Mobile phones are banned in schools, yet students are required to use technology throughout the day for learning. Similarly, there is concern students will cheat using AI, but these technologies are deliberately incorporated into the learning apps student use while at school. It is important to recognise technology is a part of daily life for children and we need to support them to manage these tools safely and wisely.”
Dr Frances Henshaw – Footwear and Footcare, School of Medicine
As an experienced podiatrist, researcher and scientist, Dr Frances Henshaw has observed first-
hand the consequences of poor footwear and footcare. Dr Henshaw engages with patients to uncover their problems and find novel, workable solutions.
“Good school shoes are essential for children as they provide the necessary support and protection for their developing feet. It is important to ensure that children’s school shoes are of good quality, fit properly, and are suitable for the child’s specific needs and activities. Importantly, check the fit regularly and make sure that shoes are replaced when little feet outgrow them.”
Professor Paola Escudero – Linguistics, MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development
As a professor in linguistics, Professor Paola Escudero can provide advice to culturally and linguistically diverse families of multilingual children starting at monolingual day care centres, pre-schools and primary school settings. She also has tips on how monolingual children can increase exposure to new languages and take advantage of the benefits of multilingualism.
“More than 300 languages are spoken in Australia, however more community support is needed for children to speak their home language or to learn a language other than English from early childhood education. By nurturing Australia’s little multilingual minds with increased opportunities to practice native languages, and learning a second language other than English, we can boost all children’s wellbeing, cognitive and social development during the early education years.”
aPPlICaTIoNS by Blacktown City Council to the NSW Government WestInvest Community Grants Program were successful in delivering funding to enhance and develop exciting new community facilities for local communities across Blacktown City.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale oaM said that the announcement by the NSW Treasurer of WestInvest funding for Council’s proposals will give projects that transform lives in communities and create jobs throughout Western Sydney.
Mayor Bleasdale said “Blacktown City is the biggest council area by population in NSW and the fastest growing. The NSW Government recognised the solutions offered by Council which will support community infrastructure and will provide support to people with economic and social disadvantage in our City.”
“Council will make sure we use these funds wisely to provide the
greatest benefit for our residents and Blacktown City,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
WestInvest funding has been granted for the following projects:
$25m for a new and expanded Police and Community youth Centres (PCyC) facility for Mount druitt and the broader community of Shalvey, lethbridge Park, Bidwell, Blackett, Willmot, Tregear and Whalan. The project will have numerous social benefits for the local community
by fostering health, inclusivity, and wellbeing for young people in the area.
$77m for the expansion and modernisation of the Blacktown aquatic Centre to create a modern leisure centre with high quality fitness facilities for the community.
$20m for a First Nations Community Centre at Mount druitt, that responds to aboriginal cultural values and provides a place for connection to Country.
$40m for a new leo Kelly Blacktown arts Centre, to meet the growing demand from the community, providing a state-of-the-art hub for local artists, creative communities and audiences of all ages.
$41m for the Mount druitt Swimming Centre that will modernise an ageing local facility to meet current and future demand for yearround swimming and learn to swim programs.
$36m for a new Seven Hills Community resource Hub, creating a focal point for government and non-government agencies to provide critical services to the whole community. The Hub will support all local residents through library and play spaces, meeting and activity areas, heat refuge and disaster recovery facilities.
already announced in late 2022 is a $34m funding boost from WestInvest for projects across the City, including a major transformation of the Mount druitt Town Centre.
79-year-old western Sydney local Shirley, who lives with a chronic lung condition, says her health and age were no barrier to participating in the NSW Health 10-week Healthy and active for life online program.
The Healthy and active for life online program is for people over 60 (or over 45 for aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who would like support in healthy lifestyle and gentle exercise.
Participants are supported with more ways to eat healthily, build strength, balance and fitness.
“The 10 online modules were interesting and I’m still doing the exercises from the book,” said Shirley.
With the help of Western Sydney local Health district (WSlHd)’s respiratory ambulatory Care Services (raCS) and Centre for Population Health’s Healthy ageing team, Shirley reinvigorated her social connections and physical activity via a weekly text messaging service, a
monthly newsletter and access to the Healthy and active for life online program.
While she has done exercise classes in the past, Shirley found she “learnt a few new exercises” through the program and particularly enjoyed the weekly phone calls from her phone coach lisa who she said “was amazing, calling me up and checking how I was going”.
“our phone coaches are trained health professionals who chat to participants about how they can use the information they are learning to make changes to their lifestyle,” said WSlHd Healthy ageing program officer, Elise Harding.
“To join the program, all you need is a small space at home to exercise, a device connected to the internet (i.e. computer or laptop), a phone and a medical clearance from your local doctor if you have certain medical conditions.”
The program will run throughout 2023 with start dates on 24 april, 17 July and 9 october if January is too soon to jump on board.
For more information about WSlHd active ageing programs, phone the WSlHd Healthy ageing team (ask for elise Harding, Monday – Thursday) on (02) 9840 3603.
If you have a chronic lung condition and need more information regarding the respiratory ambulatory Care Service contact 8890 9836 for referral information.
I have a few different medical conditions but I could still do the exercises and the program was adapted especially for me. And it’s not only for ladies, it’s for men as well.
“Blacktown City Council will deliver a new and expanded Police and Community Youth Centre (PCYC) at Shalvey Blacktown City Council will deliver an expanded and modernised Blacktown Aquatic Centre. Blacktown City Council will deliver a First Nations Community Centre at Mt Druitt.
A re-elected NSW liberal and Nationals Government will take a tougher stance on domestic violence by reviewing all sentences for domestic violence related offences and by making sweeping changes to the handling of cases within the judicial system.
Under this proposal, the Government will commission a full-scale review of all domestic violence related sentences. It will also undertake a feasibility study to establish a dedicated domestic and Family Violence court, fund a specialist domestic and Family Violence list across three local courts and fund a surge of an additional five magistrates to ensure cases are heard earlier.
Premier dominic Perrottet said the Government was taking a zero-tolerance stance to domestic violence by holding perpetrators to the highest account.
“We are cracking down on this abhorrent behaviour and sending a clear message to perpetrators that domestic violence will not be tolerated in our state,” Mr Perrottet said.
“this is about putting the safety of our people first, ensuring victim-survivors can get justice and that perpetrators are held to the highest account.
tHe NSW Police Force has unveiled an enhanced online reporting option to allow victims of sexual assault to provide information without having to take part in a formal police interview.
While police always encourage victims of any crime to make a formal report, it is acknowledged that for a number of reasons, victims of sexual assault often do not wish to speak about their experiences nor speak with police and go through the legal process.
the SArO is accessed through the online community Portal and is available in 12 languages, making the reporting option more accessible to victims.
this replaces the old process of printing and completing a 14-page document and emailing the State crime command’s Sex crimes Squad. the SArO questionnaire can be located on the NSW Police Force website: https://portal. police.nsw.gov.au/.../sexualassaultreporti...
“As well as reviewing sentences, we are also taking the first steps towards establishing a standalone court for domestic violence cases and will be fast tracking domestic violence cases to ensure no one falls through the cracks of our legal system.”
Attorney General Mark Speakman said the NSW Government would fund a temporary surge of five additional local court magistrates to help clear the case backlog.
“this funding will temporarily raise the local court bench to a record 154 magistrates to address the backlog of defended matters left following major interruptions caused by the cOVId-19 pandemic,” Mr Speakman said.
“With around 37 per cent of pending local court criminal hearings domestic violence related, this will significantly improve time to justice for some of the State’s most vulnerable people.”
Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said these reforms complement existing measures, including new and upgraded safe rooms and remote witness rooms in metropolitan and regional courts delivered by the NSW Government.
“Victim-survivors of domestic violence should not fall away from the journey of seeking justice because the process is too hard, drawn-out and complex,” Mrs Ward said.
“We know COVID-19 created a significant backlog in domestic violence cases being heard by the local court, with some victims waiting nine months or longer to have their case heard.
“this is why we will put additional resources into fast tracking domestic violence cases so victimsurvivors are not lost in the legal system.
“the NSW liberal and National Government will also explore the establishment of a specialist domestic violence court to simplify the judicial process and ensure that we do everything possible to limit the heavy emotional toll these cases can take on victims.”
this builds on the NSW liberal and National Government’s investment of more than $2 billion in 2022-23 to increase access to justice and further strengthen courts and frontline services. this review will commence as soon as possible if the NSW liberal and Nationals are re-elected, with the Sentencing council to be instructed to conduct the review.
BlAcktOWN city Football club (BcFc) have joined a campaign by Blacktown city council to win fairness in community facilities for the huge new growth areas in Blacktown city.
It is joining a call for the NSW Government to restore the ability of councils to build the facilities that communities want and need in new housing precincts. council is leading the campaign to address infrastructure backlogs over more than a decade in precincts which are absorbing the vast bulk of Sydney’s population growth.
“the NSW Government is piling hundreds of thousands of new residents, young and old, into new parts of Blacktown which have no community infrastructure whatsoever,” said Blacktown Mayor tony Bleasdale OAM.
Mr Bleasdale said the NSW Government had poured 100,000 new residents into ‘Growth Precincts’ in a decade and has plans for another 200,000 in over the next 20 years.
“Blacktown will soon be bigger than tasmania and the Act in population. All these people will be in neighbourhoods without libraries, community centres or swimming pools. existing facilities are at capacity and the State Government took away council’s ability to build any new ones.”
He was joined at an event at Blacktown city Sports centre by BcFc executive chairman Bob turner and Head of Football Mark crittenden.
“the Blacktown area is home to enormous sporting talent, with five current Socceroos either raised or nurtured within the Blacktown city Football club. Skills development needs to start at a young age so access to council provided sporting fields and training facilities is critical. Those facilities are not there today, and without action now, the problem will only get worse over time”, said Bob turner, chair of Blacktown city Fc
“It is vital that we build pathways to success for kids in the Western Suburbs of Sydney. At the moment they are simply not getting a fair deal. And it’s not only football that is suffering. I know through my association with Baseball and
Basketball that this affects a variety of sports,” he added.
In the past these facilities were paid for by levies on land rezoned for housing. When land is rezoned, its value goes up enormously, creating windfall gains for the landowner. A small part of that ‘lottery win’ used to be contributed to pay for facilities such as pools for the new communities.
No one was disadvantaged and the new housing precincts became great places to live with excellent facilities.
the NSW Government changed this in 2010 to cap the amount of levies raised – no matter how much the ‘windfall’ land value went up – and to prevent councils using levies for any buildings or community infrastructure.
“As a result, in Blacktown we have 100,000 new residents, another 200,000 planned, and a backlog of facilities like pools, libraries and leisure centres that is now over $525 million,” Mr Bleasdale said.
“Blacktown council has bought land for these facilities and made the plans but simply has no money to build them and IPArt does not allow for this expenditure in setting council’s rate cap.
“We want the NSW Government to fix this so our people can simply get the same facilities that people have all across the rest of Sydney, like the eastern Suburbs and North Shore.
“And if they won’t, we want the NSW Opposition under chris Minns to commit to doing it if labor wins the election in March.
“If they promise that, hundreds of thousands of Western Sydney residents will turn out in droves to support them,” Mr Bleasdale said.
“these are people who currently have no swimming pools in the hottest part of Sydney where summer temperatures are often high the 40s. they have no libraries. they have no community centres for social interaction and programs to support seniors.
“they are now demanding fairness and will elect a government which promises to deliver that,” Mr Bleasdale said.
Blacktown arts are thrilled to announce the winners of the 2022/23 Blacktown City Art Prize.
the overall prize winner is Peter Rush for his artwork Sightlines, The Blacktown Native Institution site. Standing here, it’s placeless, I felt erasure, ignorance (my own), indifference. the winning piece is a drawing of Blacktown native Institution on Richmond Road, representing a connection between past, present and future. Judges recognised that the artwork shows a connection to Darug history and culture and speaks to the history of the place.
the winning artwork was chosen from 71 finalists and comes with a prize of $15,000. It will also be acquired for the Blacktown city art collection.
Blacktown city Mayor tony Bleasdale oaM said: “I wish to congratulate Peter Rush on winning this prestigious art prize, which attracts entries from artists from all over australia.
the artworks that made it through to the final round of judging were of an incredibly high standard and I’m proud to say many of these pieces were from western Sydney artists.
For 27 years, this art prize has provided an important platform for artists to share, develop and enrich their creative practice. I congratulate all winners and finalists.”
This year the judges were excited to announce one Highly commended place to Connor Ovenden-Shaw for TRANSaction
the winner of the Aboriginal Artist Prize was awarded to Leanne Jones for her artwork Dinawan Ngarraarry - Emu Hunt. Highly Commended for the Aboriginal Artist Prize was given to Virginia Keft, The Colony on Show and Jayne Christian, Guwing Burragula Ngurrawa (Sunset on Country).
the winner of the Local Artist Prize was awarded to local artist Mina Lee, for her artwork Rousehill Farm. Highly Commended for the Local
Artist Prize was given to Justin (Jian hua) Qian, Totem and Mary Nguyen, Small Sketches
the Blacktown City Art Prize exhibition opened the Blacktown arts 2023 program at the leo kelly Blacktown arts centre.
the works span a range of styles and media including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and photo and mixed-media.
The independent judging panel comprising Venessa Possum (artist, cEo, Blue Mountains culture and Resource centre), Brett Adlington (cEo, Museums and Galleries nSw) and Fan Dongwang (local artist) commented that diverse and versatile styles were reflected amongst the selected finalists’ work which included a mix of emerging and established artists.
this year, Blacktown arts received 514 entries from across australia. Visitors can vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice Prize the winner will be announced in the final week of the exhibition.
ACROSS
1 Commonly liked (7)
5 Annoy (7)
9 A movement that attracts growing support (9)
10 Horned animal (5)
11 Not figurative (7)
12 One of New York’s baseball teams (7)
13 Libelled (9)
15 Play a guitar (5)
17 Cries (5)
19 Before today (9)
22 An avatar of Vishnu (7)
25 Exceed (7)
26 A mendicant preacher (5)
27 Favored (9)
28 Rational (7)
29 Grew out of (7)
dOwn
1 Small stones (7)
2 Pierce (9)
3 Moved down (7)
4 Steadily (9)
5 Small and insignificant (5)
6 Contracts (7)
7 Useful (5)
8 Bloom (7)
14 Comes across (9)
16 A message via wireless telegraphy (9)
17 Vigilant (7)
18 Ball-shaped (7)
20 Utmost (7)
21 Ceded (7)
23 The topping on a cake (5)
24 Dismay (5)
alongside the art Prize, Blacktown arts will be showcasing over 100 artworks from the 2022/23 Young Artist Prize kids and young people aged 3-14 years from Blacktown City have created artworks in response to the theme of Caring for Waterways the Blacktown City Art Prize and Young Artist Prize exhibition is open to the public until Friday, 17 February, 2023. Entry is free and all are welcome. solution
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
In 1908 a blushing bride named Emily Frances Luke married a dashing groom by the name of Albert Henry Stonestreet at the All Saints Church in Silverdale. Emily, born at Mamre in 1886 was the daughter of Elizabeth Ann Delaney (Luke) and Elizabeth’s first husband Robert Luke. Albert, born in 1882 was the son of James and Elizabeth Stonestreet (Walker). Albert and Emily had four children, the last one Albert Joseph was born in 1913. In January 1914 Emily, accompanied by her mother Elizabeth went into St Marys to register Albert Joseph at St Marys police station and about 6pm they started for home with her brother who drove the sulky and while Emily nursed her son Robert James who was born in 1912 her mother held Albert Joseph and about two miles along the Mamre Road Emily suddenly said to her mother that she was on fire and burning to death. She quickly handed Robert to her brother and her mother jumped out of the sulky with Albert Joseph and Emily stood up in the sulky and as soon as she did flames went up over her head and she jumped from the sulky and ran around. Her brother took off his coat and tried to put out the fire putting his coat around her and beating the flames but to no avail. Just then Mrs Baker and Mr Lambert came up in their vehicle and Mr Lambert did what he could with Emily laying down on the ground. Her mother rolled the sulky rug around her with assistance from the others and more people came up at that time but they could do nothing because all her clothing was burned off her. The whole thing happened so suddenly and quickly, Emily was wearing a thin print dress and flannelette petticoat and the bottom part of her dress caught alight first, then when she stood up the whole of her clothing burst into flames. The sulky caught on fire and the groceries were destroyed and her brother’s hand was also very burnt. Elizabeth said at the inquest at Penrith Court House that she did not know whether her son was smoking or not. He had a few drinks in St Marys but he was not drunk and was quite able to drive. On the way out of St Marys they were laughing and talking as they drove along when suddenly this occurrence happened and she could not say how the fire started or what caused it. She mentioned that Emily’s life was not insured and she possessed no property apart from her interest in the property Elizabeth lived on. next at the inquest Samuel Henry Luke said that he was a labourer and lived with his parents on Mamre Road and that Mrs Delaney was his mother and Emily Stonestreet was his sister. He remembered before leaving
St Marys about 6 pm he had two or three glasses of beer but that it was not sufficient to affect him and he was perfectly sober. When he got up in the sulky he was smoking and continued to for a distance along the road but said that he did not light a match after he got into the sulky. When they were about two miles along the road Emily called out that she was on fire and handed Robert to him and he got out on the opposite side and let the horse go and took off his coat and tried to put out the flames. His sister ran around for a moment and then laid down on the ground while we dragged the burning clothing off her. He said that the fire only lasted a few seconds and the clothing burned so easily and quickly that he got his hands and arm severely burnt trying to help put out the fire and his hands were very bad now and he would not be able to use them for at least another fortnight. He confirmed that he was not smoking when his sister called out she was on fire and that he had put the pipe in his pocket about a quarter of an hour before and they were travelling very slowly being about half an hour on the road. He said that the day had been a terribly hot one with a strong wind blowing. As soon as possible, Mrs Baker went to St Marys to contact Dr Bell who came and attended to his sister and ordered her immediate removal to the nepean Cottage Hospital. Mr Lambert and Emily’s brother took her quickly to the hospital where she was admitted and treated but she died. Constable John Joseph Walsh said at the inquest that he was stationed at St Marys when Emily Stonestreet called at the St Marys Police Station and filled in a form for registration of a birth at about 5pm and that she was dressed in extremely light dress material with the day being exceptionally hot with strong wind blowing and he knew nothing of the particulars of Emily’s death only when he had heard from the eye-witnesses. The whole thing seemed to have occurred so suddenly and quickly from a spark from the pipe of her brother that would account for the fire and fanned into flame by the strong wind blowing. He said that Emily appeared very delicate when he saw her. The finding from the Coroner at the inquest was that “Emily Frances Stonestreet at the Nepean Cottage Hospital in Penrith on the 10th January 1914 died from shock, the result of burns accidentally received on the same day at St Marys caused by a spark from the pipe of her brother.” Emily is buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery along with her husband Albert Henry Stonestreet who died in 1963 at nepean District Hospital.
PLAN to refinance before your fixed rate term ends.
Australian Borrowers have enjoyed a lengthy run of record low rates, and the past two years have seen plenty of homeowners lock into a fixed-rate loan. The borrowers who snapped up record low fixed interest rates are unsure where to turn now as their loans are due to expire.
Variable mortgage rates have skyrocketed following eight consecutive official cash rate rises since May, coupled with the impacts of loan serviceability and the rising cost-of-living.
The response from borrowers is that many are unsure and most likely will do nothing with regards to property over the next 12 months. New loan applications to purchase a property have declined while loan “refinancing” increased by 8.2 per cent to an all-time high of $19.5 billion for total housing.
Australians seem are unsure what lever to pull to try and insulate themselves and their families as economic conditions changed. There has been a dramatic shift in the proportion of family budgets now being eaten up by mortgage repayments and for most Australians this will increase as fixed interest loans expire and interest rates continue to rise.
If your fixed term is ending soon, now is the time to review your home loan, and look for a better deal. If you don’t do anything nearing the end of your fixed term (known in the industry as the “fixed rate cliff”), your home loan will usually revert to your lender’s standard variable rate.
Variable rates after the fixed rate ends tend to be much higher than usual. This is because lenders know that some people won’t be bothered to switch lenders at this point meaning that you end up paying for not reviewing your situation.
You may want to be loyal to your lender, but chances are your lender won’t reward that loyalty with its market-leading rate and won’t experience the gradual monthly increases the rest of the market has, instead they will be hit by a bus of $600-$1000 increase a month as their loan reverts to variable.
At this point you can sit on this rate for however long you like, but you may be able to get a more competitive interest rate if you look into your lender’s other options or refinance with a new lender which may have better deals.
Even a marginally lower interest rate could save you thousands of dollars over time, so don’t underestimate the importance of searching for a good deal. In saying this, consider the whole loan
product and associated fees and charges rather than just the interest rate.
Recent tougher lending standards by the financial institutions to issue loans which has been driven by regulators means more customers are likely to get knocked back. The reason typically, is because homeowners took out the loan before stricter lending rules applied.
Finance researchers have suggested that even if house prices drop 15 per cent as widely forecast, the rate rises have made life tougher overall for first-home buyers. That’s because lenders considering mortgage applications apply an assessment rate that is higher than the actual home loan rate for repayments, meaning a loan people could afford in May 2022 is now unaffordable in the lenders eyes.
So, for customers looking at switching products or lenders will need to reconsider how to do refinance, even though there are a number of other lenders in the market, refinancing can be an opportunity to review your situation and look for a better rate.
If you aren’t sure how to proceed after your fixed period ends, it might be a good idea to have a chat with Alex from Wealthwiz to discuss your options. We’re here to help.
Regional NSW has scored a hole in one with a bumper program of men’s and women’s golf events to be held from 2024 to 2026, thanks to a partnership between Golf NSW and the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the events, which include the Australian Women’s Classic and the Men’s and Women’s NSW Open Championships and regional qualifying events, would be a huge boost for regional NSW.
“This is a chance to showcase some of Australia’s leading golfers at some of the best courses across regional NSW,” Mr Toole said.
“These events will inject more money into our regional hotels, restaurants and small businesses and put more regional courses on the ‘must visit’ list of passionate golfers.”
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said NSW has more than 166,000 registered golfers and upwards of 370 courses, making it the perfect place to host major golf tournaments.
“Golf is seeing a huge surge in popularity at the moment, with people of all ages hitting the course for a round at their local club,” Mr Henskens said.
“NSW is Australia’s premier sporting state and securing these tournaments is another example of how the Liberal and Nationals Government is working to attract the best sporting events to NSW.”
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said this series of golf events highlights the commitment to building and securing a diverse events program across NSW to support the State’s economy.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is proud to drive a strong return for the thousands of businesses across the State by supporting local events which attract participants, officials and spectators to our regions,” Mr Franklin said.
“We expect that these 51 strategically placed golf events over three years will attract more than 16,000 visitors to the host regions, injecting an estimated $13.5 million into the regional NSW economy.”
Golf NSW CEO Stuart Fraser thanked the Liberal and Nationals Government for its support.
“Golf is as popular as ever and so the variety of tournaments we can deliver for our players is growing thanks to the support of our partners, in particular the NSW Government,” Mr Fraser said.
“It is an exciting era for us to enter this threeyear partnership and to plan our events schedule knowing that we will be supporting regional NSW and giving back to local communities.”
The Golf NSW major event calendar from 20242026 will include:
• Men’s NSW Open Championship (annual)
• Men’s NSW Open Regional qualifying events (x 6 annually)
• Men’s NSW Senior Open Championship (annual)
• Women’s NSW Open Championship (annual)
• Women’s NSW Open Regional qualifying events (x 6 annually)
• Australian Women’s Classic (annual)
• World Sand Greens Championship – Men & Women (annual)
dUNHeVeD GC hosted the annual South Creek Cup on Saturday 28th January, with 225 golfers teeing off on the day.
Spectacular summer weather conditions ensured competitors could appreciate the magnificent course, which has been under water on four
occasions in the past 2 years due to floods. The Green-keeping staff have proved up to the challenge, presenting the course on Saturday at its best, as befitting a Vardon event.
Michael Williams (Moore Park GC) shot a 4-under par 68 to win the Cup, 3 shots clear of Damion Miller on 71.
Adam Jaramillo (Dunheved GC) captured the Captain’s Cup (Best Nett) with a score of 68, 1 shot
ahead of Steve Andrews (Dunheved GC) on 69. Coby Carruthers (Dunheved) won the John Fearnley Cup (Best Junior Under 18) on 74, whilst Zachary Shaw (Dunheved) won the Colt prize (1824 years) on 96.
Grade winners were: A Grade - Andrew Carruthers (Dunheved) 70, B Grade - Chris Bonnici (Dunheved) 70, C Grade - Adam Wylie (Dunheved) 70 c/b, C2 Grade - Shaun Hinks (70).
By Noel Rowsell
THe 2023 Men’s and Women’s Major Pennant competitions teed off on Sunday, with nine western Sydney golf clubs competing this year in the Men’s divisions and one club in Division 1 Women.
It would prove to be a great opening round for the
district, with 6 wins from 7 games.
The results for the round were as follows, with each home team listed first.
MeN: Division 1 - Lynwood CC 4.5-2.5 over Penrith GC; Division 2 - Stonecutters Ridge GC 4.52.5 over Twin Creeks GC, Dunheved GC 5.5-1.5 over Cumberland CC, Division 3 - Springwood CC 6-1 over Marrickville GC, Richmond GC 5-2 over
Cabramatta GC, Wallacia CC 4-3 over Randwick GC; Division 4 - Glenmore Heritage Valley GC 5.5-1.5 over Bexley GC; Division 5 - Leonay GC v Kareela GC (not played - new draw being issued).
WOMeN: Division 1 - Bonnie Doon GC v Stonecutters Ridge GC (Result not to hand)
The same teams will each meet up again in Round 2, at the alternate venue.
Sydney Motorsport Park hosted the official Australian Superbike (ASBK) Championships Practice Week on the 1st-2nd February, featuring Michelin Supersport (inc Super Twins), Dunlop Supersport
300 - Yamaha Finance R3 Cup, Alpinestars Superbike and the stars of the future, the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup.
Practice for the junior riders began at 2pm, following a full schedule of morning events which includes a welcome to the team, a parents’ briefing, Tyre Change, Coaching, Technical - Motorcycle
Safety Checks and a Riders’ Briefing.
All groups involved in the 2-day event received 4 Practice sessions per day, wrapping up at 4.10pm on Thursday afternoon.
The first race meeting of the year will be held at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Victoria over the 24th26th February.
The following events are SMSP 24th-25th March, Queensland Raceway 28th-30th April, Hidden Valley Raceway, NT 16th-18th June, Morgan Park Raceway, QLD 14th-16th July, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit 27th-29th October, The Bend Motorsport Park, SA 1st-3rd December.
By Bo B Turner
DefenDing nSW football Champions, Blacktown City fC, are proud to announce a longterm partnership with Walker Corporation as their ‘Principal Partner’ for both the Senior Men and Senior Women.
A company that “lives for the challenge of transforming places,” the partnership is in line with the philosophy of Blacktown City to create a sporting icon for the city it represents.
“The Walker attitude of seeing an opportunity where others simply see a challenge, is the same vision we have to build on the reputation, history and culture Blacktown City has developed over our 70-year history,” said Blacktown executive Chairman Bob Turner.
“We could not ask for a better partner to support our future growth. The commitment of Walker to Western Sydney will not only stimulate the city of Blacktown, but their community spirit will lead to Blacktown City utilising its players and coaches to establish a free Schools development programme with a goal to spread the Blacktown City word and find the next Matilda or Socceroo,” added Turner.
Walker Corporation executive Chairman Lang Walker said his team is proud to continue its strong support for Western Sydney and its communities.
“Sport unites communities and that passion and drive from Blacktown fC and its fans to be the best, aligns with what we stand for at Walker,” Mr Walker said.
“Our goal is to help Western Sydney flourish with great communities and workplaces and to do that properly, it’s vital to invest in cultural, education and health outcomes across the region.”
At their season Launch on Wednesday night, Blacktown City also outlined their partnership with the new owners of Blacktown City Sports Centre, Momento Hospitality.
CeO of Momento, Marcello Colosimo, has wasted little time since acquiring Lily’s function Centre and Blacktown City’s home late last year. Renovations began immediately to revamp the facility to ‘The Star Hotel and event Centre’.
The Star will become the home for post-game celebrations and events for Blacktown City.
“We are excited to revamp both the function centre and stadium and with Blacktown City we have an ideal partner to profile both organisations,” stated Marcello Colosimo.
“Our philosophy is to give back to the community and together we have developed a grass Roots Training Programme to provide first class training for those not fortunate enough to participate in nPL or SAP Programmes. The goal is to identify potential talent and offer scholarships to the proven Blacktown City breeding ground through Momento,” Colosimo added.
in a further announcement, Momento has allowed Blacktown City to seek a naming Rights partner for their home ground. Blacktown City and Momento are delighted to announce that Landen Property group has agreed to a long term commitment for ‘Landen Stadium’.
With key projects throughout Western Sydney, in particular Blacktown, Landen follows a similar philosophy to Walker and Momento to build and give back to a community.
Blacktown City’s first home game for the 2023 season is Sunday, february 5th in a grand final replay against Manly. game time is 5pm. The Women commence their second season at the senior level at home on Sunday, March 12th, against Marconi.
“We are delighted to be able to announce three main partnerships prior to the opening round of the 2023 season,” said Chairman Turner. “Walker,
Momento Hospitalty and Landen Property group provide not only financial support for Blacktown City, but the credibility three mainstream business groups offer to the wider corporate community to get on Board,” Turner added. go Blacktown City!
Friday, 3 February 2023
In 2015, 8-year old Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge GC) was told ‘he was too small to be a caddy’ but he wisely ignored the advice, carrying the bag for professional Jason King in that year’s nSW Open.
Fast forward to 2023 and Kade has build a remarkable junior career in the Stonecutters Ridge GC Academy and the Jack newton Junior Golf (JnJG) Foundation.
16-year old Kade has also just enjoyed another remarkable week, playing in both the 2023 nSW Men’s Medal and the nSW Amateur Championship.
Kade shot 72/71 to finish in a tie for 20th position in the nSW Medal, thus qualifying for the elite Amateur Championship, which was played under match-play conditions and restricted to just 32 players.
He defeated Penrith GC’s Blade Gadd 4&3 in the Round of 32, then defeated Jeff Pullen (St Michael’s GC) at the 20th hole in the Round of 16.
Kade then faced 2022 nSW Amateur and 2022 nSW Open champion Harrison Crowe in the quarter finals and, after leading by 3 after the first 5 holes, subsequently fell 2&1 in a very tight, high quality contest.
Overall, a total of 15 men from western Sydney golf clubs had entered the nSW Medal, with Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC), Darcy
Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Blade Gadd and Kade all initially finishing in the top 36. Darcy would subsequently be eliminated in a playoff among a group of 10 players all locked together in 32nd place, with Jye Halls the lucky (and only) player to qualify from that group.
Chris Fan (Avondale GC) defeated Lincoln Morgan (Royal Queensland GC) to win the nSW Medal on the first playoff hole.
Abel Eduard (Kingston Heath GC, Vic) would go on to win the nSW Amateur title, defeating Harrison Crowe 3&1 in the Final.
