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Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

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Keep lunches cool as kids head back to school

s kids across the state begin the new school year, NSW Health is reminding parents and carers to make sure lunchboxes stay cool, fresh and healthy. NSW Health Director for Population Health and Strategic Programs, Megan Cobcroft, said kids need the right fuel to help set them up for a productive day and so parents and carers should take extra care to ensure the right kind of nourishment was provided to support learning and development. “Kids need to be fuelled and hydrated to learn and play at school,” Ms Cobcroft said. “Keeping lunchboxes cool is important to help foods stay fresh and appealing, and to stop them from spoiling, which can cause children to become unwell.

Use a cooler bag or “insulated lunch box with a

freezer brick or frozen bottle of water. This will help keep food fresh and delicious and doubles up as a cool drink. Megan Cobcroft

“

Ms Cobcroft said children get about a third of their daily food intake during the school day, so it was important to provide healthy options. “Incorporating healthy options such as wholegrain bread or wraps with lean meat, chicken, boiled eggs, cheese or falafel or even lentil patties are a good way to ensure school kids are getting a good balanced diet that encourages wellbeing,” Ms Cobcroft said.

“Kids love little vegetables that are easy to eat like carrot and celery sticks or cherry tomatoes. Small fruit such as grapes and strawberries or cut fruits like melon can be packed in small containers or snap lock bags and can be good value when in season.” Ms Cobcroft said while some packaged snacks can be convenient, they often contain too much sugar or salt and not enough healthy wholegrains. “Compare the Health Star Rating of snacks to choose

the healthiest option within a product category. A good rule of thumb is to look for at least 3.5 stars or more.” “It’s also important to throw away or compost any food that comes back home in their lunchbox and be sure to thoroughly wash and dry lunch boxes and drink bottles for the next day.” For help to pack a healthy lunchbox visit: www.healthyliving.nsw.gov.au/food/healthy-schoollunch-box

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hile COVID-19 restrictions resulted in the cancellation of many Australia Day events in Western Sydney, Blacktown City Council welcomed 157 new Australian citizens in ‘online’ citizenship ceremonies. Residents from 28 countries, from Syria to Sudan to the tiny Pacific territory of Tokelau, joined the online ceremonies to pledge their allegiance to Australia from the comfort of their own homes. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “Blacktown City has among the highest intake of immigrants and refugees in Australia and we are very proud that we are a multicultural City with a welcoming ‘open door policy’. “Blacktown City has a population of more than 405 thousand people representing more than 180 countries. Nearly 50 percent of our residents were born overseas and a great majority of them want to become, or have become, Australian citizens.” Three online ceremonies were held on Wednesday with Deputy Mayor Brad Bunting and Australia Day Ambassador, TV builder and gardener, Robert Palmer carrying out the official duties from the Blacktown City Council Administration Centre.

Birthday and citizenship celebrations for Tallawong resident, Sahil Kabra as he is presented with his citizenship certificate by Deputy Mayor Brad Bunting. They were joined by Sahil’s mother Tasneem (left), wife Shugufta and son, Amaan.

The Federal Member for Chifley Ed Husic, the Federal Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland, the Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali, the Member for Londonderry Prue Car, the Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla and Blacktown City Councillors Julie Griffiths and Livingston Chettipally, also joined the online ceremonies. Among those to be conferred with Australian citizenship was the Kaiber family of Mount Druitt. For father Charbel and sons Rawad, Raghed and Roy, the day had extra significance and marked the final step in the long journey from Syria to Lebanon and finally to Australia, as refugees.

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(L-R) Roy, Charbel and Rawad Kaiber at home in Mount Druitt, far from their war-torn Syrian homeland.

Fleeing their war-torn homeland, the Kaiber family witnessed the city of Damascus turned into a war zone and sought a new, safe life in Blacktown City, arriving here in August 2016. Overcoming all obstacles, the Kaibers have settled into their new life and have a shared love for Mount Druitt. “I am so happy to get my Australian citizenship today after a long journey of more than six years,” Charbel said. “When I moved to Australia, my English wasn’t good. I spoke Arabic and French. “But here I had the opportunity to improve my English in some courses and I now have certificates in English and also business administration.”

For one new citizen, the day marked a double celebration. Indian-born Tallawong resident, Sahil Kabra celebrated his 37th birthday on the day he pledged his allegiance to Australia. Sahil’s wife Shugufta and mother Tasneem also became Australian citizens as part of the online ceremonies. “It was always my dream as I was growing up in India, to come to Australia and raise a family. To become an Australian citizen on my birthday has made that dream come true,” Sahil said. Blacktown City Council will hold up to 12 citizenship ceremonies during 2022.

Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

More than 150 new citizens call Blacktown City home

Western News

Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 Sports Journalist: Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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From the Editor’s Desk By KeRRIE DAVIES

e all whine and complain at times. Some things are important and worthy of the uproar; others not so much. I was lucky enough to travel pre-covid to countries where people’s living conditions are very different to ours. As a nation we are mostly good-hearted, kind people, but I can’t help but notice there’s a sense of ‘entitlement’ in us compared to those who live in far less wealthy countries. When we’d visit Fiji we’d always meet up with a beautiful Fijian family who I’ve known for over 20 years. On one particular visit, their humble home in their village that had taken many hands over a year to build out of trees and other debris, had been flattened by a cyclone. “We are so very thankful to the Japanese government,” Bole, the father of the family (pronounced Bolly) told me. “When our village was flattened they supplied us with a tent to live in, they are very generous and kind hearted people.” As I looked at his beaming face and the smiles of the rest of his family (even the teenage kids - imagine that!) my imagination began to conjure up an image of an Aussie in the same situation, given a tent to live in. I could already picture my imaginary example’s head on A Current Affair. “What’s the government going to do about this?” he’d be yelling. “I’m living in a bloody tent!” Bole and I spoke recently about Covid-19, restrictions and vaccinations. Fiji experienced lockdown restrictions just as we did. But Bole didn’t stamp his feet and demand his sovereign rights; he pointed out the upsides, like families being brought closer together and people uniting to protect the vulnerable from the pandemic. When I asked him if he was vaccinated, he said he was not, but they were hoping a very good vaccine called Astra Zeneca from Australia would soon be available. Bole passed away last Saturday night from pneumonia complications, aged 52. Over the two decades I was lucky enough to know him, I never heard a single complaint pass his lips. He always had a smile on his face - he was just happy to be alive. Bole’s untimely death came as a huge shock to me this week, and it is a stark reminder that life is too short to sweat the small stuff. We really do live in the Lucky Country. There is so much to be grateful and appreciative of, if we can just shelve our entitled selves long enough to see it. Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

Council extends sympathy and help to Tongan community

lacktown City has extended a helping hand to the Tongan community in the wake of the devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami. “On behalf of Blacktown City Council, my fellow Councillors and all the people of our City, we send our deepest sympathies to all the members of the Tongan community, both here and in their homeland.” Tony Mayor Bleasdale OAM said. “We have a large Tongan community with nearly 3,500 Tongans calling Blacktown City home and each and every one of them have relatives and loved ones who have been effected by this tragedy. “Our Tongan community is always one of the first to step up when others are in need and the Tongan cultural, sporting and church groups are a vital part of Blacktown City’s diverse and multicultural identity. “Council stands ready to assist in any way we can and Council officers have been involved in discussions with our Tongan community leaders, community groups and charitable aid organisations to see how best we can all provide assistance.” Mayor Bleasdale said. Following those discussions, aid

agencies have requested that people don’t donate physical goods and instead donate financially to those agencies providing support on the ground in Tonga. • Red Cross • Care Australia • ADRA Australia • United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs For an explanation why physical goods should not be donated, go to: https://donateresponsibly.org/whathappens-donations

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Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

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Supporting inmates on release to reduce reoffending

eaving prison without a support network can be a daunting experience if you don’t have a place to live or a job to go to. Now a team of Throughcare coordinators at Parklea Correctional Centre are working with inmates to give them the best chance to succeed on the outside. Chris Allen, Emily Stone, Rachel Williams and Lidya Mikic are among 25,000 people across Australia who manage offenders in prison and in the community who will be celebrated on National Corrections Day, Friday 21 January. The annual event recognises their valuable contribution to keep the community safe and rehabilitate offenders. This year’s theme is Giving Back, and the Throughcare team are passionate about helping inmates change their lives and providing them with the tools they need to reach their true potential. Chris heads up the Throughcare team at Parklea, having worked for Corrective Services NSW for more than 20 years, firstly as an officer and then finally at a reintegration centre. “I wanted to do something more rewarding and when I worked at the reintegration centre with inmates about to be released, it was the first time I felt I was doing something meaningful,” Chris said. MTC-Broadspectrum’s Throughcare option is an innovative reintegration program and is a key part of its reducing reoffending strategy.

The program is free for inmates who have finished their sentence or are being released from Parklea on bail and need help finding accommodation, housing, employment, counselling and other support. Inmates are assigned a Throughcare Coordinator who works with them to ensure the necessary infrastructure and services are in place before their release and regularly checks in with them once they leave prison. The program began in July last year and the team has now assisted more than 50 inmates. Emily said part of her role was looking at what inmates found difficult to navigate since they were last released. “In the first two weeks after release they need a lot of support with things like finding work and understanding the Centrelink process, the things we take for granted,” Emily said. “Some people would definitely

be back in here if they didn’t have that support to help them with those things.” Chris said some inmates have spent long periods in prison and they find life on the outside very difficult. “It gets too hard and complex for some people, and they think it’s easier to be in gaol, but now they have someone to call for help and guidance. It’s early days, but there’s already signs that the program is working.” Chris believes it is possible to reduce reoffending if the right supports are there. “There is often pushback on trying new things, but unless you try things like this program, the reoffending numbers won’t change,” Chris said. “We give them hope and show them they’re not hopeless and we’re having some influence once they get back into the community.” Emily said some inmates had never

had anyone to listen to them or speak to them with respect. “I love this job because I believe change is possible. Every little thing we do over time plants a seed.” Rachel said the team had one common goal – to ensure inmates don’t return to prison. “Everyone makes bad choices, and a prison sentence shouldn’t define you. People should be able to move on with support and stop the cycle of reoffending,” Rachel said. “We want to empower them to be the best person they can be.” Lidya joined the team as she’s passionate about stopping inmates returning to prison. “We are showing them there is another life if they want it. The support we provide makes them independent and confident that they can do it.” Parklea Correctional Centre is operated by MTC-Broadspectrum on behalf of Corrective Services NSW.

COVID-19 booster shots now available at three months

SW vaccination clinics including Western Sydney Local Health District’s Granville Centre Vaccination Clinic and Blacktown Hospital Vaccination Clinic began offering COVID-19 booster vaccinations three months after people received their second dose from Friday, 21 January. The change from a four-month interval to three months means there are now 3.55 million people in NSW who can book in for their third dose of vaccine. Premier Dominic Perrottet said being triple vaccinated offers extra protection against the effects of the Omicron variant. “The advice is clear – getting boosted means there’s less chance you’ll get the virus and, if you do, the effects are generally much milder,” Mr Perrottet said. “That’s why we are offering more people the opportunity to get the booster sooner. I urge everyone who is eligible to get boosted to do so as soon as possible. This will help to protect our older population, as well as vulnerable

Janet Watson getting her COVID-19 booster at the Granville Centre Vaccination Clinic today.

members of the community.” Janet Watson got her COVID-19 booster vaccination at the Granville Centre Vaccination Clinic to protect herself and her family. Health Minister Brad Hazzard said there are more than 40 state-run vaccination clinics spread throughout NSW as well as mobile outreach locations that these clinics visit. “Along with public health safety measures including wearing masks

indoors, working from home where practicable, not singing and dancing and minimising the size of gatherings in homes, the other big protection is getting a booster vaccination. Being able to get that booster at 3 months after your second dose gives the opportunity to be much safer, much sooner,” Mr Hazzard said. “In addition to the state facilities opening at three months for boosters, individuals can still attend with their

GPs or pharmacies when the Federal Government authorises them to provide boosters at three months, in due course.” NSW Health Deputy Secretary Patient Experience and System Performance Susan Pearce, who leads the NSW Health vaccination rollout, said the change to the vaccine schedule in NSW will help people maintain a high level of protection against the COVID-19 virus. “As we face into the challenges brought of the Omicron variant, a booster dose will ensure people have increased immunity, and a lower risk of requiring hospital treatment,” Ms Pearce said. NSW Health has delivered a total of 440,681 third/booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines in support of the Federal Government’s vaccine program. NSW Health is contacting people who are registered in the NSW Health vaccination booking system with a reminder text message. NSW Health clinics offer Pfizer or Moderna vaccines to people aged 18 years and over.

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AFE NSW is partnering with major aged care providers in Western Sydney to train a new generation of workers amid a huge demand for skilled staff in within the sector. In mid-2021, a report by the Committee for Economic Development of Australia found that a staggering 400,000 new workers would be needed by 2050 to meet the demand for aged care services. For those contemplating a new career or lifestyle change, an aged care traineeship can offer a pathway into full-time employment in just 12 months with the completion of a nationally recognised Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) with TAFE NSW. Paul Sadler, CEO of peak industry body ACSA (Aged & Community Services Australia) said many services are currently struggling to employ the workers they need to take on new clients. “Australia’s aged care workforce is reaching a crisis point and this has been made substantially worse by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Sadler said. “Vocational education will play an essential role in addressing this acute workforce shortage, and TAFE NSW is at the forefront of providing the practical skills new workers need to care for older Australians.” Major aged care providers such as BaptistCare are now offering traineeships in partnership with TAFE NSW across their state-wide operations in a bid to attract more staff. “The message is simple: we need new workers and we are happy to train you,” BaptistCare Senior Learning and Development Consultant Kerry Martin said. “Traineeships in residential aged care and home care are ideal because new workers can start immediately and undertake on-the-job training while completing

on-the-job learning suits me and is far more beneficial than sitting in a classroom.” TAFE NSW aged care teacher Tanya Ziermann said the sector offered the rare combination of job satisfaction and security. “It’s a wonderful profession for compassionate people who want a new start or a career in which there is more flexibility to choose your hours,” Ms Ziermann said. “When you work in aged care you are making a real difference by helping someone retain dignity as they age. It’s very rewarding to help care for someone in those years and it is definitely more than just a job.” Explore hundreds of courses in aged care and other health-related industries at TAFE NSW. For more information visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

Tafe nsw traineeships help boost critical aged care workforce

their studies at TAFE NSW. Our trainees have the security of knowing they will graduate as qualified care workers with a guaranteed job. We encourage anyone with a caring nature to think seriously about a career in aged care.” BaptistCare trainee Rachel Murphy from St Helens Park works at South West Sydney Home Services. The 43-year-old said the traineeship gave her the flexibility to upskill professionally around her family commitments. “I’ve been working in aged for some time and I wanted to get a qualification. I have a family and a house, so being able to work and study at the same time was important for me,” Rachel said. “Doing a traineeship, you’re able to put into practise what you’re learning at TAFE NSW. I need to be doing the practical task to learn it correctly, so

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Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

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Nominate now for the 2022 Blacktown City Woman of the Year

ominations are now open for the 2022 Blacktown City Woman of the Year award. The annual award recognises the outstanding achievement of women within the local community through voluntary or paid work and is presented on International Women’s Day, 8 March. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale is encouraging people to nominate an inspiring woman in their community. “Blacktown City has scores of incredible women who make wonderful contributions to their community every single day,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “This Award celebrates the passionate, dedicated and inspiring women who live or work in our City, often without recognition. “Blacktown City Council is proud to celebrate these wonderful women on International Women’s Day and highlight the many achievements of women in Blacktown City.” The Award is open to women aged 16 years and over who currently live or work in the Blacktown Local Government Area. Nominations are encouraged for women who: have made an outstanding contribution to their local community, inspired others to contribute to their local community, risen above adversity to reach their goals, consistently demonstrated exceptional and progressive leadership, mentored and inspired other women and demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity. Chair of the Blacktown Women’s Advisory Committee, Councillor Julie Griffiths, said this year’s Award was a chance to recognise the tireless efforts made by women during an extremely challenging year. “There is no doubt that 2021 was a difficult year for us all, but thanks to the work of so many women, whether that be in frontline work or in volunteer roles, our community came together to tackle every challenge thrown our way,” Cr Griffiths said. “This Award celebrates this dedication and I urge everyone to nominate a woman they know for their

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM with 2021 Blacktown City Woman of the Year joint winners Rissa McInnes (left) and Harinder Kaur (right).

efforts during this challenging time.” Tireless volunteer Rissa McInnes and domestic violence advocate Harinder Kaur were joint winners of the Award in 2021. Rissa was recognised for her outstanding community fundraising work, which has raised more than $250,000 for local and international groups since 2013. For many years, Rissa has dedicated her time to the Ponds Lions Club, Blacktown City Lions Club, Philippine Community Council and Aguman Capampangan Australia. Harinder, who works at Dillwynia Correctional Centre, is a passionate crusader for women, especially those who have experienced domestic violence.

Along with her husband, she founded the Harman Foundation and has been instrumental in creating a new refuge, telephone support line and material aid services for women in need. International Women’s Day is a global event that commemorates women’s achievements and promotes women’s equality worldwide. This year’s theme is ‘Break the Bias’ and calls on communities, workplaces, schools and universities to fight for a gender equal world. Nominations close at noon on Friday, 18 February, 2022. To nominate, visit Council’s website: https:// www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Community/ Aw a r d s - s c h o l a r s h i p s - a n d - c o m p e t i t i o n s / Blacktown-City-Woman-of-the-Year-2022

Boosting budgets with before and after school care savings for families Parents and carers of children enrolled in all primary schools in NSW will benefit from a new $155 million program for Before and After School Care (BASC) services to provide greater support and access to BASC services. The $500 voucher will assist families who use BASC services by covering the parent gap fee component of their session fees. Premier Dominic Perrottet said BASC services were more important than ever as families retuned to work following the holidays. “It’s been a challenging past couple of years for parents of school-aged children. Many have had to juggle the demands of supervising their kids’ education at home while working remotely, or even foregoing paid work,” Mr Perrottet said. “These vouchers for before and after school care will help alleviate some of the financial pressures on NSW families and provide greater flexibility and more options for those who need to work.” Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said that both providers and users of BASC would benefit from this announcement. “These vouchers are all about providing affordable access to care for families, particularly after a tough two years that have disrupted access to school and BASC,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Every family with children at a NSW primary school is eligible for one voucher per child, which will provide each child with approximately 60 sessions of free BASC.” The NSW Department of Education has partnered with Service NSW to roll out the program, which will be delivered through Service NSW and will follow a similar premise to the current Dine and Discover Vouchers. Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said BASC providers will be able to register to redeem the vouchers from 7 February and parents will be able to apply for, and utilise, the vouchers from 28 February. “This is a win for families as they can apply for, store and redeem their new vouchers via the Service NSW app, similar to Dine & Discover and other vouchers like Active Kids and First Lap,” Mr Dominello said. “Eligible families will receive their vouchers in their app just like the Dine & Discover program with providers able to quickly scan the QR code on the spot or use the unique voucher code to redeem.” Providers and customers can register and apply online via a MyServiceNSW account, in the app, or by visiting their nearest Service Centre.

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WESTERN HISTORY

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

dwin James “Ted” Evans was born in Fakir.”) and was noted as having a beautiful delivery, March 1849 to parents James & Mary Evans quick rise from the pitch and, in the words of Lord (Colless). He was an Australian cricketer Harris, “an accuracy worthy of Alfred Shaw’”. who played in six Tests between 1881 and 1886. (Alfred Shaw was an eminent Victorian cricketer Born in Emu Plains he entered Newington College and rugby footballer, who bowled the first ball in at Silverwater in 1865 where he had Joseph Coates Test cricket and was the first to take five wickets in a as his mentor who was then a prominent member of Test innings). When Nepean played Lord Sheffield’s the Albert Club, reportedly the premier club of the Englishmen, some of the local players were William day”, Joseph was an important asset who taught at Peter Howell known as ‘Bill’ or ‘Farmer Bill’ the school from 1864 to 1872 and returning later as who would play for NSW and Australia, James Headmaster. He was a noted member of the ‘2nd Oatley Cleeve (whose father was Chief Magistrate Albert’s’ and reportedly a good all-rounder and leftat Penrith), would play for NSWvVictoria in an hand bowler. With cricket organised at Newington Intercolonial match in 1882. The earliest recorded as a club, he and other Masters could play for the Nepean District player to play First-class cricket in school, as could former students. Another prominent 1874 was Ted, and from 1874 to 1884 he was second cricketer to emerge from Newington in the 1860s only to C.T.B. Turner (‘The Terror’) and the feared other than Ted, was Tom Garrett who also played Fred Spofforth (Frederick Robert Spofforth known as for Australia. The College was founded on 16 July “The Demon Bowler” was arguably the Australian 1863 and established as a result of a growing view cricket team’s finest pace bowler of the 19th century in the Wesleyan Methodist Church that an institution among all Australian bowlers). Ted was a talented  Photo of Edwin Evans courtesy of higher than elementary school was needed in and popular all-rounder who promised much but Wikipedia website Sydney. Newington House was the former home of turned out to be a reluctant champion. A right-hand colonial merchant and landowner John Blaxland on the banks of the batsman and a right-arm fast-medium bowler, he had a fine off break Parramatta River at Silverwater. The College opened with 16 students and could bowl all day. When he joined NSW the team enjoyed a great aged between seven and sixteen and was predominately Wesleyan measure of success, mainly through his efforts. Though he had some but opened to the sons of parents of all religious denominations also fine performances he repeatedly turned down opportunities at the last functioning as the home for theological training for the Methodist moment to play Inter-colonial and International cricket, including Church in NSW until 1914. It is known from contemporary accounts several tours of England. He provided any number of reasons ranging that boys played cricket from the start of the school, the ‘green’ being from injury, family matters (he was the father of 16 children), pressure close to the main buildings. Much of the cricket played would have been of business and even seasickness. His employment as “Inspector of informal matches organised within the school, however, Newington Selections” that were settled on by farmers required him to visit country was soon fielding teams to play not only against other schools but areas and this was considered the major problem. He toured England also against local clubs. School opponents included Camden College a with the 1886 team but did not meet with great success. Sadly, when Congregational school in Newtown, St Mark’s at Macquarie Fields and called up for the national team Ted’s accuracy deserted him and he Calder House School in Redfern. Before leaving the college Ted had failed to make a serious impact. He was, in reality, considered past his established the reputation of being “the best colt of the year”, but he prime at 38 and afterwards he made a career as a professional kangaroo had a few subsequent opportunities for taking part in first-class matches shooter. Such was his contribution to the game that in 1921/22 the in the metropolitan district. Without that advantage at Newington, he Nepean Association organised a subscription fund to purchase a shield became one of their best all round man. Ted left Emu when he was to honour his memory. Since then, the ‘Evans Shield’ has been awarded about 18 years of age and went to Bungle Gully (in the Walgett district), continuously to the Premiers in the NDCA A Grade Competition. Ted where the family had acquired a station. Ted was a good pigeon shot, was married twice. In 1872 he married Harriett Elizabeth “Dolly” York one of the best in the State in fact. He was musically inclined, being at Emu Plains. She died at her residence at Glebe Point in April 1891 a good singer and a fair violinist. He was a splendid horseman and at the age of 39 years after an illness of several years and is buried at could play a good game of tennis, a game which at that time was not Emu Plains cemetery with their son James York Evans. Ted’s second nearly so generally played as it is now. He often visited this district after marriage in July 1893 was to Susannah Lees in Sydney. She died in he went to Bungle Gully. He was about 22 years of age when he first September 1944 in a Private Hospital in Waverly. Ted was in hospital played in intercolonial cricket and was an off spinner with an ability to in September 1902 suffering from an attack of pleurisy. In July 1921 he consistently land the ball wherever he wanted to and it was said that died in the local hospital in Walgett from the effects of a paralytic stroke he could knock over a single stump in an average of one delivery out aged 72 years and is buried in Walgett cemetery. of every two and had some success in Australian first-class cricket and Sources: Newington College Register of Past Students 1863-1998 always referred to as a most genuine cricketer. Lord Harris’s comment (Sydney, 1999), pp. 60. Victoria, Australia. 31 March 1900. p. 20. in 1878 was that “he had never played against a finer bowler than Ted. Retrieved 1 August 2021 – via National Library of Australia. Victoria, As a fieldsman he was magnificent and in batting he proved a hard nut Australia. 9 November 1912. p. 28 (Town Edition). Retrieved 1 August to crack, his defence being admirable.” Ted (known as “Corkscrew” 2021 – via National Library of Australia, Sydney Morning Herald (NSW though among his more intimate associates he was known as “The : 1842 - 1954), Monday 4 July 1921, page 10, Penrith Cricket Club.

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Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

One of the Old Time Greats

Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

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Blacktown City’s 2022 Australia Day Awards

Sue Hunter Lawrence

dedicated community advocate and volunteer, a correctional officer who is passionate about the environment, a five-year-old charity founder and a COVID-safe Christmas lunch for those in need, are the recipients of this year’s Blacktown City Australia Day Awards. 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 more than 50 incredible nominees for their tireless efforts in our community, and whose work will ensure Blacktown City continues to flourish into the future.” This year’s Awards presentation was held ‘online’ due to COVID-19 restrictions and was presided over by Deputy Mayor Brad Bunting. The 2022 Blacktown City Australia Day Awards were awarded to:

Bryleigh Sunshine Lavender Clarke

Citizen of the Year – Sue Hunter Lawrence Sue Hunter Lawrence is a passionate community advocate and volunteer, who dedicates countless hours volunteering in Riverstone and surrounding areas. During the devastating 2021 floods, Sue co-ordinated a Flood Relief Furniture and Non-Perishables drive for those affected. She has organised numerous community events to promote community spirit and support local business. Through the Riverstone Schofields Chamber of Commerce, Sue has been an avid supporter and promoter of local business, offering advice and helping advance the business network. Sue has supported many fundraising campaigns, including Dollars for Dignity for those less fortunate. Sue has a dream of a holistic plan for Riverstone and the North West Sector, incorporating green space and a town centre that would boost business opportunities and the community overall. Young Citizen of the Year – Bryleigh Sunshine Lavender Clarke At just 5 years of age, Bryleigh Sunshine Lavender Clarke has raised almost $3,000 over the past six months for different charities. Among these charities is the Luke Priddis Foundation, which supports families living with autism. Bryleigh is a junior finalist in the National Miss Australia Program

Sanjeev Kumar

and has also started her own charity ‘Sunny Girl’ where she hopes to “put a little sunshine in your day”. Bryleigh has donated toys, clothes, sheets, quilts, quilt covers and blankets to the Salvation Army and is in the process of selling some of her old clothes online, to help raise even more funds for the Luke Priddis foundation. In December, Bryleigh donated over $100 in groceries, which she paid for out of her own pocket money and shopped for herself, to give to the reverse Christmas Tree 12 days of Christmas appeal at the local Common Grounds Cafe in Lalor Park. Environmental Citizen of the Year – Sanjeev Kumar Sanjeev Kumar is a Horticulture Overseer at Parklea Correctional Centre with a passion to implement sustainable practices across the prison. In his work, Sanjeev teaches skills to inmates, so that they have a better chance of gaining employment upon their release, help reduce reoffending and leave a lasting environmental legacy beyond the prison walls. Sanjeev is passionate about teaching younger generations about the environment and has actively engaged local schools, offering saplings and other plants for them to use, and teaching students how to plant gardens and about the importance of green spaces for health, wellbeing, and sustainability Sanjeev has been innovative in his horticultural practices by cultivating a worm farm at the prison to ensure

organic material is saved from landfill, by using this waste to feed the worms and enrich the soil used in the edible gardens. Sanjeev has propagated and delivered almost 2 tonnes of salad mix produce to local charity Food Bank for distribution to those in need. Community Event of the Year – Mount Druitt Combined Churches Christmas Lunch Mount Druitt Combined Churches have held a Christmas Lunch event for the past 17 years, but, due to COVID-19, the event was in danger of being cancelled, leaving vulnerable people without company, food and nothing to celebrate. The Mount Druitt Combined Churches Christmas Lunch decided to change the concept in 2020 to ensure that no one missed out, and held a home delivery service instead. The volunteer team came together and supplied over 250 meals to the community. Complying with COVID restrictions, it was a simple knock on the door, a few words shared amongst each other and leaving with that customer knowing that someone cares about them. This was a well-coordinated event, keeping numbers in preparation and packing to a minimum, wearing masks and gloves and washing hands regularly. Drivers were supplied with masks, sanitiser and safety vests and were briefed on COVID-safe procedures.

Sydney Symphony for kids in Blacktown City The Sydney Symphony Orchestra will bring worldclass music to Blacktown City for a spectacular children’s event. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said Blacktown City Council, in collaboration with Blacktown Arts, was proud to partner with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra to present ‘A Music Adventure - Emily Who & the Sydney Symphony’. “This partnership with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra will provide a wonderful opportunity to bring world-class music and musicians to Blacktown City for children to enjoy,” Mr Bleasdale said. “This event will bring amazing musical talent to our own backyard and give our littlest musicians a chance to learn from some of the industry’s best.” Singer Emily Who and musicians of the Sydney

Photo: Nick Bowers

Symphony will combine their talents as children experience the sounds of a string quartet in an interactive musical mystery at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre. Children will learn about the violin, viola and cello

as they solve a series of fun musical clues. They will stretch up high on their tip-toes and bend down low, all while listening and moving to different music. The 30-minute concert is for children under 5 years of age and their parents. A Music Adventure – Emily Who and The Sydney Symphony Date: Saturday, 12 February, 2022 at 11 am Location: The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, 78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown. Tickets are $5 per person with all proceeds going to local charities. Entry is free for children 5 years and under. Book tickets here: www.eventbrite.com.au/ e/a-music-adventure-emily-who-the-sydneysymphony-tickets-228073543107

Western News

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

urbulent does not even begin to describe the recent resurgence of COVID so far. As a result of COVID-19 many thousands of Australians were affected in 2020 with changing employment conditions, reduced work hours and some unfortunate became unemployed. Both the state and federal governments have tried to minimise the economic effect of the new coronavirus variants in 2021 and as it sets in again for 2022 there is limited support for many Australians. People who are self-employed or contractor are in a unique situation, many experienced challenges when it came to taking out home loan application before coronavirus. Bank policies will continue to change as banks shift from helping existing customers to protecting their loan books with new customers. Considering all that has occurred, lending rules haven’t changed drastically for self-employed borrowers, however, lenders are requesting additional income documentation to ensure your business hasn’t been impacted by COVID. What documents are required? The requested documents may differ from lender to lender. Here is the list of documents that can assist you to speed up your loan process. • The last two years financials including your personal returns, company returns, business profit and loss statements and financial statements. • A Business Activity Statement (BAS) with

periods of the most recent financial statements to application date. Usually, a minimum of 2 quarters of statements are required. • Business bank statements. The bank statements need to show deposits evidencing consistent trading income. The statement must be no older than 14 days at the time of submitting the application and 6 months history is usually required. • An accountant prepared business projection for the next 12 months. The accountant letterhead or cover letter should have information on projected revenue, projected operating expenses and projected net profit. What are the high-risk industries? Lenders will be far less likely to rely on unstable income types in these industries, for example casual, contract, temporary, seasonal, commission, overtime or bonuses which may not be consistent into the future. Specific industries that were affected by the coronavirus the most are Retail, Tourism, Airlines, Hospitality and Entertainment. However, if you can provide a detailed explanation of consistency in income, along with the latest 3 months bank trading statements, annualised turnover and ensure the business is trading at the same level as the previous financial year, we might be able to help. Are low doc options still available for self employed borrowers? Yes, low doc home loan options are open still for

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self employed borrowers even during the COVID pandemic. However, due to the pandemic, many lenders have made a few adjustments in lending policy like limiting maximum loan to value ratio (LVR), reducing maximum loan size, etc. What are some tips to get approved as a selfemployed borrower? • Make sure your business is not adversely affected by COVID. • Have detailed business plans on how you are planning to sustain the business even during the pandemic. • Continue to Lodge BAS on time. • Make sure there is revenue flowing in your business banking statements. • Provide as much information as you can to your broker. Are you self employed and looking for a home loan? Wealthwiz can actively assist you in navigating your current situation. So, if you’ve been thinking about reassessing your finances, simplicity, flexibility and clarity are the essential ingredients for anyone who is self-employed or contractor and looking to apply for a home loan. Got a question? Call Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the home loan market for self-employed borrowers. Wealthwiz is here to help.

Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

How To Get Approved As Self Employed Borrower During COVID?

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Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

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Nominate a local sporting star in the Blacktown City Sports Awards

he Blacktown City Sports Awards are back again and Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM wants you to nominate a local sporting star. Nominations are now open for the prestigious annual awards which recognise the achievements of sports enthusiasts both on and off the field. “This year marks the 39th year of the Sports Awards, which have long celebrated the triumphs of our City’s sporting community,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “Blacktown City has a proud sporting history and is the sporting capital of Western Sydney. “Our City is home to many wonderful athletes of all ages and abilities, as well as amazing coaches, volunteers, officials and administrators who dedicate hours of their time to their teams and clubs. “These awards pay tribute to these groups and individuals across 10 categories, including Sportsperson of the Year, Junior Sportsperson of the Year, Sports Official of the Year (Junior and Senior), Coach of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Team of the Year, Club of the Year, Administrator of the Year and the Mayoral Shield. “I encourage everyone to nominate a sporting hero they know in these highly-anticipated awards.” Nominations are now open for the April 2021 April 2022 period, with more than $9000 in cash prizes to be won. Nominations close in April and a presentation for all finalists and nominees will be held in June. Award Categories Sportsperson of the Year - This award recognises athletes who have achieved outstanding results in respect to performance/s at a national or international level during the 2021/22 season.

Blacktown City Sportsperson of the Year in 2021, Koralee Catlett, centre, pictured with Deputy Mayor Brad Bunting, left, and President of Swimming Australia, Kieren Perkins OAM.

Junior Sportsperson of the Year - This award recognises junior sport athletes who have achieved outstanding results in respect to performance/s at a national and/or international level during the 2021/22 competition season. The nominee must be younger than 17 years of age as of 1 April 2021. Senior Sports Official of the Year - This award recognises exceptional contributions made by a Senior Sports Official (umpires, referees or judges) in the 2021/22 competition season, with a particular focus on those committed to improving community sport through fairness, integrity and making sport more welcoming and inclusive. Junior Sports Official of the Year - This award recognises exceptional contributions made by a Junior Sports Official (umpires, referees or judges) in the 2021/22 competition season, with a particular focus on those committed to improving community

sport through fairness, integrity and making sport more welcoming and inclusive. The nominee must be younger than 17 years of age as of 1 April 2022. Coach of the Year - This award recognises the exceptional contribution made by a coach during 2021/22, either on or off the sporting field. Volunteer of the Year - This category recognises the exceptional contribution made by a volunteer to Blacktown City sport or active recreation in 2021/22 Team of the Year - This award recognises a team that has achieved outstanding results in respect to their performance at a state, national and/or international level during the 2021/22 competition season. Club of the Year - This award recognises a sporting club or organisation that has demonstrated a strong commitment to encourage and support participation in sport and active recreation including breaking down barriers that may be created by age, cultural diversity, ability, gender, religious belief or sexual orientation. Administrator of the Year - Open to residents and/or sporting/recreational administrators who preside over the administrative affairs of a Blacktown City-based club/association and who have served in an elected capacity for a period of no less than 3 years. Mayoral Shield - This award recognises an individual who has excelled at their club, has made an outstanding contribution to sport and is deemed to be an invaluable member of their club. To nominate, and for more details, visit the website: www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/ C o m m u n i t y / Aw a r d s - s c h o l a r s h i p s - a n d competitions/Blacktown-City-Sports-Awards

Tough start for local clubs in Major Pennant By Noel Rowsell

he first week of Major Pennant Golf has been a tough encounter for the majority of western Sydney clubs, with only Richmond GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC managing to secure wins. In Division 2, Stonecutters Ridge defeated Killara 5 games to 2, whilst in Division 3, Richmond defeated Woolooware 4.5 - 2.5.

One of the more impressive results on the weekend was the performance of Penrith’s Blade Gadd, who defeated the current Victorian Amateur, NSW Amateur and Australian Masters of the Amateurs champion Harrison Crowe. Penrith’s team matched it with the reigning Major Pennant champions all day but eventually fell just one game short of victory. The full list of results were: Division 1: New South Wales 5 2 over Twin Creeks; St Michaels

4 - 3 over Penrith; Division 2: Stonecutters Ridge 5 - 2 over Killara and Pennant Hills 5 - 2 over Dunheved; Division 3: Richmond 4.5 - 2.5 over Woolooware, Kogarah 4 - 3 over Springwood and Brighton Lakes 5.5 - 1.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley; Division 4: Northbridge 5.5 - 1.5 over Leonay and Campbelltown 5.5 - 1.5 over Wallacia. The second round features the same teams, meeting at the reverse venue/club.

Richmond GC Major Pennant player Daniel Ayre in action from 2021 - file photo by Noel Rowsell

Wanderers appoint Rudan Western Sydney Wanderers FC have appointed Mark Rudan as head coach of the club’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s team until the end of the 2021/22 season. The Western Sydney local started both his playing and coaching career in the region at National Premier League heavyweights Sydney United before stints coaching at Rockdale City Suns and Australia’s National U20s team. Rudan made his coaching debut in the A-Leagues in 2018 with Wellington Phoenix where he guided the club to a historic season, taking the Men’s team to nine matches undefeated as well as the Finals Series for the first time in three years. In 2019, Rudan was appointed the inaugural

coach of Western United where he was the head coach for two seasons, guiding the squad to the Finals in his first season at the club. Wanderers Chairman Paul Lederer was pleased with the appointment of Rudan. “We need to improve our standing, plain and simple,” said Mr Lederer. “This appointment was made to bring back a formidable mentality to our team, to stand up for our region and play with absolute determination to succeed. “Mark understands the domestic football landscape at all levels and breeds a winning culture. Not only is Mark a Western Sydney local but he has coached at all levels and understands what it takes

to represent our community. “We look forward to Mark achieving success with the Wanderers, and with what we believe is an exciting squad. We encourage our members and fans to get behind our team and support them in our upcoming matches, starting this Wednesday night against Perth Glory, at CommBank Stadium.” Wanderers head coach Mark Rudan said he was looking forward to the challenge. “As a Western Sydney local, I’m proud to be representing the region where my career and passion for football began. “We have high expectations here at the club and I’m eager to bring back the grit, intensity, fight and passion at the club.”

Western News

SPORT

By Bob Turner

t has taken 69 years, but 2022 is a significant year for Blacktown City FC with the launch of its first ever Senior Women’s team. The Board of Blacktown City FC made the decision in early 2021 to nominate a team to play in the NPL 2 Women’s competition. Blacktown City Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, began the immediate search for a ‘Women’s Technical Director and 1st Grade Coach’. In August 2021, Coach Crittenden and the Blacktown City Board announced the return of David O’Keefe (or Dok as he’s affectionately known) to fill the position and lead the club in an exciting new direction. Coach Crittenden said, “Dok has the full support of the club with all the same desires to compete at the highest level with the same energy as the men. I have said to the parents, we are on a fast train and jump on board for an exciting ride”. The Men’s programme has produced over 30 Socceroos in its 69 year history and we are looking to find the first woman who steps up to be the Club’s first Matilda”, he added. Dok has a history with Blacktown City and coached the Men’s U20 squads back in 2013 & 2014. Dok is excited at the opportunity to return to the Black and Red of Blacktown City and commenced almost immediately to build a solid squad for the season. The task for Dok is simple, build the Women’s programme to quickly match the Men’s reputation and advance to NPL 1 within three years. The Women’s World Cup in 2023 will be an absolute highlight on the Australian Sport calendar and Blacktown City FC will be doing all it can to do its part in building future Matildas! The Blacktown City FC home Stadium on Quinn Avenue in Seven Hills, is regarded as one of the best football grounds in Sydney. Building

David O’Keefe

of new change rooms under the main grandstand to accommodate the increase in women’s football is scheduled to be completed by November this year. The improvements to the Change rooms are possible through the NSW Office of Sport and the NSW Government’s ‘Greater Cities Sports Facilities Fund’. The announcement by Mark Taylor, State Member for Seven Hills, prior to Christmas was the best Christmas present Blacktown City FC could have received, especially since new amenities has been on the wish list of the club since the grandstand was erected over 20 years ago. The successful application for new changerooms will provide a huge boost in the development and recruitment of female players. David O’Keefe has over 30 years of football coaching under his belt and started his coaching journey back in 1990. His coaching experience has been divided by coaching boys, girls, men and women at all levels of the game inclusive of grass roots, school, state, NPL and national levels. David was offered and accepted a coaching

role at Barker College in 2009 with the key responsibility to coach the Girls 1sts team and to also develop and grow the profile of girl’s football program at the school. Having three daughters of his own, David found this a seamless transition and in the past 12 years the program has grown from 1 team to 6 teams and the 1st team remained undefeated ISA premiers and champions for eight successive seasons. More recently (January 2017) Dok was in the privileged position of coaching the Australian School Girls squad who created history by becoming the first school girls’ team to go through an overseas tour undefeated (8 games / 8 wins). Many of these players are now playing W-League and NPL respectively. This is a positive reflection on the excellent work Dok has done consistently over an extended period of time preparing young players for senior football. “My coaching philosophy has and continues to be about playing a high tempo and entertaining style of football allowing players to be creative and to express themselves with the

ball, whilst without the ball being disciplined and organized whereby every player understands their role within that team environment. I have extremely high expectations and standards and always strive to pass these same standards on to players and teams I coach, especially in semi- professional and professional environments” said O’Keefe. “This opportunity with BCFC is incredibly exciting and the challenge to be at the forefront of setting up and leading BCFC girl’s and women’s program for a club with such a rich and successful history is very humbling. To that end, I see this opportunity as a privileged position and a golden opportunity to extend all my collective coaching experience in an area that aligns well with my personal values, deep beliefs and my commitment to ongoing coaching, learning and education”, O’Keefe added. After two years of Covid restrictions, the Board and Coaching staff of Blacktown City FC will now look to the 2022 season with enthusiasm to continue building the reputation and momentum for a successful programme in both the Men and Women. The season launch for both Senior teams is scheduled to be held at Bowman Hall at the Blacktown City Council Chambers on Thursday, February 17th. As a special bonus, Blacktown City FC has just become a Diamond Member of the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber and to launch their membership and host Chamber members, the 17th will include a Business After 5 event for the Chamber. The goal is a full house on March 6th to open the 2022 NSW NPL 1 Men’s season against Rockdale. The theme for the year is “Bring it Home Blacktown” and the club is steadily building on its reputation and credibility. Go Blacktown City!

Season 2022 coming soon

Western News 4 February 2022 Issue 154

A First for Blacktown City!!

Western News Friday, 4 February 2022

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Carruthers captures South Creek Cup 263 golfers teed off in the 2022 South Creek Cup at Dunheved GC on Saturday 29th January. 16-year old Coby Carruthers has already been in good form this month and showed the field a clean pair of heels, shooting a fabulous 5-under score of 67 to win by two shots from his 2021 Major Pennant team-mate Daniel Ayre (69). Coby had a run of birdie, eagle, birdie, birdie from holes 14 to 17 on his back nine and had putts for eagles on every par 5 on the course. He finished with 7 birdies and 1 eagle on his final day as a 16-year old, turning 17 on Sunday and also making his debut in the Concord GC Major Pennant team. South Creek Cup: Coby Carruthers (+1) 67, Daniel Ayre (1) 69; John Fearnley Cup (Juniors under 18 years): Coby Carruthers (+1) 67; Colt winner: Mason Gounder (8) 80; Captain’s Cup (Nett): Kevin Bruton (11) 67 on a countback, Runner-up Craig Pritchard (23) 67 (c/b). The South Creek Cup is a Golf NSW Vardon Event and was open to male amateur golfers who held a current Australian or overseas equivalent handicap of 4 of lower. Dunheved Golf Club members on higher handicaps than 4 could compete on the day but were not eligible for Vardon prizes / points.

Coby Carruthers with the South Creek Cup perpetual trophy and with his two personal trophies from the event. Photos supplied.