Workers’ Sleepout raises $52,000-plus for Alice’s Support Services
ANOTHER wonderful grassroots Blacktown charity will gain precious extra funding for the year ahead, thanks to Workers Lifestyle Group’s CEO & Co Winter Sleepout.
So far, the Sleepout has raised more than $52,000 for Alice’s Support Services, which gives a helping hand to families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and experiencing mental health issues.
This year Alice’s has supported more than 150 women and their families.
More than 40 people, staff at WLG’s Workers Blacktown and Workers Sports clubs, sponsors and supporters, slept out on June 20 in the bitter cold to raise funds for Alice’s.
Manager Leanne McLachlan said the Sleepout proceeds will help Alice’s fund for its clients housing bonds, rental arrears, moving costs, household goods and mental health assistance.
“This additional support is crucial,
as our current funding limitations prevent us from providing all the services needed by our vulnerable clients.”
Each year, Workers chooses a
charity providing essential services to the Blacktown community to receive funding from the annual CEO & Co Sleepout. This year’s Sleepout is the fourth.
“We’re proud to be supporting Alice’s this year as they do amazing work through a holistic approach to resolving homelessness and mental health issues in our community,” said Workers’ chief executive Morgan Stewart.
“And we’re equally proud that so many Workers’ staff and friends in the business community turn out to support the Sleepout.”
The Workers Lifestyle Group clubs and their 55,000 members and staff help sustain more than 100 community organisations, charities, schools and sporting groups and the estimated value of its contribution is $3 million annually.
The sponsors of CEO & Co Winter Sleepout 2024 are Asahi Beverages, Balance My Books, Blacktown Ponds Lion Club, CFI | Commercial Facilities Integrated, Gold Security Management, Greenworx, MacTek Telecommunications, PAYCE Foundation, and Sunblest Cleaning.
A champion fighting against Domestic Violence
BY NOEL ROWSELL
JHAN Leach is the Executive Officer of the Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre (BWGHC) in Blacktown. She has undertaken a lifetime campaign to support women and girls who have been victims of Domestic Violence (DV).
Jhan recently spoke at the GLOW night at Sydney Zoo, where she detailed much of her own struggle with domestic violence and advised she is now in a happy, loving, kind relationship.
Jhan works tirelessly in the world of domestic violence, in a number of roles over the years, including her current position at the BWGHC, but also commits much of her spare time in honorary roles. These past roles have been as follows.
2020- Current -Committee Member Women’s Advisory Committee, Council Blacktown City Council.
2019- current- Committee Member Blacktown Domestic Violence Leadership Group. 2015- CurrentCommittee Member of The Blacktown Domestic Violence Forum.
2011-2014 - Committee Member of South Western Sydney Community Services Committee.
2009-2011 - Director, Dolores Women’s Refuge, Delvena Women and Children’s Refuge, Chairperson of Elsie Women and Children’s Refuge.
2009 - Invited by the Minister for Women Verity Firth as an expert on domestic violence and abuse to advise her consultants at Redfern Community Centre. Also invited by Dixie Gordon CEO of Mudgin Gal to speak at International Women’s Day event
at Belmore Park, where the Babana Aboriginal men’s group apologised to Aboriginal women for the domestic violence and abuse they’d perpetrated on women and children.
2007 - 2009 Board Member Redfern Legal Centre.
2005 - 2009 Executive Committee Member Inner Sydney Domestic Violence Committee. 2005 - 2008 Chairperson Phoebe House.
2002 - 2004 Eastern Area Domestic Violence Committee.
2000 - 2001 Women and Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol committee D V NSW.
1997 - 1999 Director Bondi Youth Accommodation, Bondi Junction.
1995 - 1998 Director Elsie Women and Children’s Refuge, Glebe.
Jhan has been the recipient of the following awards;
Woman of Western Sydney Community Award 2024
Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Award 2023
Blacktown Local Business Award 2023
Woman of the Year Blacktown 2022 Heart of the Community 2016 Woman of the Year Blacktown 2016 Nominated for the Pride of Australia Medal 2016
The Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre (BWGHC) is a community-based, non-profit women’s health centre, providing accessible health and well-being services for women and girls in Blacktown LGA, regardless of their income.
The peak body is Women’s Health NSW, and Blacktown is part of a network of 21 community-based Women’s Health Centres in NSW, which share similar values and objectives.
The BWGHC offers Information Workshops and Support Groups, including: Counselling & Casework, Western Sydney Community Legal Advice, Women’s Doctor & Nurse, Women’s Legal Services, Empowering Workshops, Yoga, Walking Group, Belly Dancing, Massage Therapy,
Art as Therapy, Naturopathy and Workshops, Dance Stretch and Tone, Scrap Journaling, Tai Chi, Oz Harvest.
NB: There is no on-site parking for visitors. Please contact the Centre prior to coming in to register for programs.
Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre, 6 Prince Street, Blacktown NSW 2148 Phone: 02 9831 2070 Email: info@ womensandgirls.org.au, Website: www.womensandgirls.org.au
Jhan Leach and participants in two of the programs undertaken at the BWGHC. Photos supplied
Workers Lifestyle Group were joined by Cr Bob Fitzgerald, Blacktown MLA Stephen Bali and the Alice’s Support Services team at the CEO and Co Sleepout.
Women dominate at Parklea graduation
PARKLEA Correctional Centre has welcomed 13 new officers, the majority of whom are women.
Parklea Governor Wayne Taylor said he was pleased to swear in the second class of graduates this year, meeting MTC Australia’s commitment to ongoing recruitment to ensure a safe, decent and secure facility.
“It is always an exciting day to welcome new officers into the corrections family, as I’ve found my 35 years in the industry to be a rewarding career and no day is the same,” Mr Taylor said.
“As an important public service, corrections provides a stable career with opportunities for advancement in the various areas that are essential to the running of a prison.
“Correctional officers play a vital role in keeping the community safe and help reduce reoffending, yet they are often overlooked, as they are not as visible as other frontline staff.
“Today enables us to shine a light on their work and thank them for taking this step to serve the community and make a positive impact on those in our care.”
Mr Taylor said the seven women and six men graduates were as diverse as the community they will serve, coming from various fields, different
cultural backgrounds and ranging in age from 19 to 42.
“The type of person attracted to becoming an officer has vastly changed over the years, with Parklea staff representing many different cultural backgrounds and 40 per cent of our workforce are women,” Mr Taylor said.
“The diversity of our custodial and non-custodial team enables us to work more effectively with inmates from similarly diverse cultures and backgrounds in what is often a challenging and dynamic environment.
“The Parklea team bring all these things together to make a difference by employing MTC’s decency and respect principles and BIONIC (Believe it or Not I Care) philosophy.
“I’m delighted to welcome our new officers into the Parklea family and I look forward to working with them.”
MTC Australia’s Initial Training Course is a rigorous 10-week training program, which covers subjects such as policies and procedures, deescalation and use of force tactics, mental health and general first aid.
Trainees also participate in simulated
search and emergency response exercises and weapons training.
MTC is recruiting for more officers now.
To apply to become a correctional officer, go to: www.mtctrains.com. au/careers/
Parklea has been operated by MTC Australia on behalf of Corrective Services NSW since 2019.
Western NEWS
Editor:
General Manager: Sales: Sales:
Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644
Bart Bassett 0412 955 745
Bart Bassett 0412 955 745
Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777
Distribution Map
Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web: Western News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.
A step in the right direction: Criminalising coercive control
ORKING as a journalist for nearly two decades, I have covered many stories of domestic violence and often written about the need to charge up our response to it.
Across the country, the horrors of physical abuse often dominate the headlines and spark our attention, but there’s also an insidious form of abuse that often goes unnoticed: coercive control. This form of domestic violence leaves no visible bruises but it scars its victims deeply, trapping them in a web of manipulation and fear.
Coercive control involves a range of behaviours designed to dominate, intimidate, and isolate a partner or former partner. It can be subtle and relentless, manifesting in ways that are hard to identify yet profoundly damaging. It is harrowing for those who have experienced or are experiencing it, and often has a horrendous impact on children and other family members.
I am really pleased that, starting this week, coercive control will be criminalised. This legislative change is a monumental step forward in the fight against domestic violence. Each case of domestic violence is unique, requiring a tailored approach rather than a cookie-cutter solution. I believe criminalising coercive control acknowledges this complexity and sends a powerful message: psychological abuse is as harmful as physical abuse and will not be tolerated.
And although each case will be entirely different to the next, it is a behaviour not hard to spot. Characters who engage in the big C’s will always have form. It is a repetitive pattern of conduct that they unleash to control and dominate others.
This change is not just a legal shift; it’s a societal one. I’m encouraged that it will serve as a warning to abusers: their actions are being scrutinised and will be punished. Coercive control is no longer hidden in the shadows; it is being brought into the light.
Start your nursing and midwifery career with NSW Health
GRADUATE
nurses and midwives are being encouraged to start their careers in Australia’s largest and busiest public health system, by applying to work for NSW Health.
Each year NSW Health runs GradStart, a state-wide recruitment process for graduate nurses and midwives.
Minister for Heath, Ryan Park said there are great personal and professional benefits to working in the public system.
“Our nurses and midwives are really at the heart of healthcare in our hospitals and health facilities, and I encourage graduate nurses and midwives to apply to join the NSW Health family,” Mr Park said.
“Beginning your career in the NSW public health system offers comprehensive professional development, variety, and ongoing training and support as you build your future in NSW Health.
“It also provides opportunities to work in different locations, and I hope graduates consider options in rural
Candidates also may be eligible for scholarships and study subsidies.
Applications for NSW Health’s 2025 GradStart intake are now open and close on 1 July 2024.
Students are eligible to apply if:
• They are completing a nursing or midwifery degree between 1 June 2024 and 31 May 2025
• Will meet all the requirements to be registered as a Registered Nurse or Registered Midwife with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
• Are an Australian Citizen or hold a visa that allows ongoing full-time employment in Australia.
More information on GradStart is available on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/gradstart
Celebrate First Nations cultures on Dharug Country at Rouse Hill Estate
NAIDOC Week (7–14 July) is always a time to celebrate First Nations cultures, history and achievements. This year’s theme, Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud, honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations cultures.
This year, Museums of History NSW is joining forces with Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural and Education Centre to bring you a day of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. The day will begin with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Colin
Locke and Smoking Ceremony by Uncle Wes Marne, followed by dance performances and workshops by the Khuna Family Dance Group.
The day’s program includes elders Uncle Wes and Uncle Colin in the yarning circle exploring more than a century of knowledge, culture and strength. Visitors can listen to didgeridoo performances and storytelling with Uncle Peter Williams and learn weaving techniques with Ngiyampaa and Guringai multidisciplinary artist Tarni Eastwood, owner of Nula Weaving
based on Dharug land. Guests can see how Brad Burrows creates traditional tools and drop in to Muru Mittigar to learn how to throw a boomerang, make art or check out Aboriginal art and artefacts while listening to some great yarns.
Drop-in activities all day from 10.30am include: weaving with Tarni Eastwood, wood carving with Brad Burrows and cultural activities with Muru Mittigar
Our friends from Rotary and the Country Women’s Association will be on hand to provide light refreshments and food.
WHAT: Celebrating NAIDOC Week at Rouse Hill Estate
WHEN: Sunday 14 July, 10am –4pm
WHERE: Rouse Hill Estate, 356 Annangrove Road, Rouse Hill
COST: FREE – registration essential
Richard Amery awarded Blacktown City Council Keys to the City
BY EDMOND ATALLA
IAM pleased to congratulate the Hon. Richard Amery, former Member of Parliament for Mount Druitt, who has been honoured with the prestigious Blacktown City Council “Keys to the City” award in recognition of his outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to our community.
The presentation ceremony, held on Wednesday, 26th June, was very well attended by esteemed members of the community, including the Mayor, Brad Bunting and Mr Amery’s supporters.
The late Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM strongly supported the nomination of Mr Amery.
This significant recognition is a testament to Richard’s exceptional contributions and ongoing commitment to our community. Receiving the keys to the city is not only a symbolic gesture but also a significant acknowledgment of the impact he has made.
Richard has long been an inspiration, serving over 31 years, firstly as the Member for Riverstone, a position he held for some seven years, and the remaining time as the NSW Member of Parliament for Mount Druitt, during which time he served as the Minister for Corrective Services, the Minister for Agriculture and the Minister for Land & Water Conservation.
Further, Richard also represented
and serviced the community in numerous community positions striving for positive outcomes for his beloved community. Richard has served as a member of the Archdiocese Council of Mount Druitt Hospital, the Rooty Hill School of Arts Management Committee and on the Board of Directors of Mount Druitt Hospital and
Rooty Hill High School.
Richard’s commitment has undoubtedly set a high standard for civic engagement and community involvement. It is individuals like Richard who make Mount Druitt a better place to live, work, and thrive. His passion for his community has been steadfast and I am positive
that his contributions have already had a lasting positive effect on our city.
This award is a recognition of his efforts which are deeply appreciated and celebrated by all who have the pleasure of knowing him.
I once again extend my heartfelt congratulations to Richard on this well-deserved honour.
MP
A 40 year campaign soon to take flight
BY NOEL ROWSELL
IN 1984, the Commonwealth government held a meeting in St Marys to discuss the possibility of a new airport in western Sydney. Legend of the Nepean David Trist AOM was the Bank Manager of the Commonwealth Bank in St Marys at that time and attended the meeting as a member of St Marys Chamber of Commerce.
Enthused by the opportunities an airport at Badgery’s Creek presented for employment and the Penrith district’s economy, David began a tireless journey of advocacy, consultation and lobbying that would continue for the next 40 years.
On Saturday 22nd June at the 4th Annual Open Day at the Western Sydney International Airport (NancyBird Walton), David was among 1,600 visitors who were transported around the site and shown how far the airport construction has come along.
This year’s Open Day welcomed the largest number of community members since the community days were launched in 2021, with approximately 4,000 people in total to attend over the four years. More than 70,000 people have visited the Experience Centre (which is open every week).
Western Sydney International Airport ‘fast facts’:
Currently, around half of the 3,500-strong team
working on the construction of WSI live locally in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
When the first stage of the airport opens, around 8,000 jobs are anticipated to be required across the 1,780-hectare airport precinct.
‘Learning’ workers, which include trainees, graduates, apprentices and workers training to upgrade their qualifications and skills, currently
account for 30 per cent of the workforce.
The airport has invested more than half a billion dollars with approximately 360 Western Sydney businesses since the start of construction in 2017.
As of June 2024, the construction of WSI is about 80% complete. It remains on time and on budget to welcome airlines and passengers in late 2026.
Cost of living relief measures began 1 July
GREENWAY MP Michelle Rowland said the Albanese Labor Government is providing vital cost of living relief for everyone from 1 July.
“The Government is helping Australians right now, while working to tackle inflation and deliver a Future Made in Australia,” Minister Rowland said.
From 1 July, the Government is delivering:
• A tax cut for every Australian taxpayer – including 93,000 in Greenway;
• $300 energy bill relief for every Australian
household, and $325 for small businesses;
• A freeze on the cost of PBS medicines for every Australian;
More funding to build more homes in every part of the country.
This comes on top of a third consecutive pay rise for 2.6 million workers, backed by this Government. It builds on cost of living measures the Government has already delivered, such as cheaper childcare, fee-free TAFE and the biggest investment ever in
expanding bulk-billing.
‘“I know that people in North West Sydney are under pressure right now,” said Minister Rowland.
“That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is delivering this help now, while delivering on our responsible economic plan to fight inflation and invest in future growth.
“I know there’s still more to do, and I’ll keep working every day to deliver for the people of Greenway.”
Blacktown City Council adopts a sustainable Budget
BLACKTOWN City Council, the biggest council in NSW, has adopted a balanced $758 million budget and operational plan for the 2024/25 financial year.
The new Budget provides a commitment by Council to delivering high quality community services and provides transformational infrastructure for our residents and businesses.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting said “Exciting facilities and services for our community are on the way after Councillors approved the Blacktown City Council budget. Our latest balanced Council budget will improve infrastructure such as footpaths, roads, parks, libraries and swimming pools, while providing new facilities to serve our growing population into the future.”
“With a raft of important new projects, including for roads and schools, funded in the recent NSW Budget for 2024/25, there is plenty of good news for our residents and businesses,” said Mayor Bunting.
Council is providing a number of important new projects.
Some highlights to note include:
1. road and footpath improvements across the City ($21.8 million)
2. drainage and stormwater infrastructure for the growing areas of Marsden Park, Riverstone and Rouse Hill ($10.2 million)
3. works to create the 20-hectare Ken Birdsey
Park at Schofields ($32 million). This will include playing fields, a playground, amenities building, shared paths and more
a Disability Sport Centre of Excellence ($15 million) at Blacktown International Sports Park.
Mayor Bunting said, “My thanks to everyone who participated in the public consultation and had their say on the Budget. Your views have helped guide decision-making by Council. I want to assure the community that the budget was carefully prepared with a view to Council’s long-term financial sustainability.”
Council is also working with the NSW Government to deliver Blacktown City’s next group of transformational infrastructure projects under the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
The Program will deliver:
A new Community Resource Hub in the heart of the Seven Hills town centre.
The revitalisation of the Mount Druitt Hub including the modernisation of the existing community centre and upgrades to the adjacent public space.
The modernisation of the Blacktown Aquatic Centre and Mount Druitt Swimming Centre.
A new and improved Police and Community Youth Centres (PCYC) facility at the existing Shalvey location.
A First Nations Cultural Hub in Mount Druitt, that is a new purpose-built, cultural healing centre for the Western Sydney First Nations community.
A new Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre that celebrates Blacktown City’s exciting arts scene, championing its diverse culture and enabling future generations to contribute and benefit from this new cultural space.
Council welcomes investment in Blacktown City by the Walker Corporation. Public consultation has demonstrated community support for the Blacktown Quarter project that will revitalise the Blacktown city centre, bringing thousands of jobs, and creating a catalyst for future investment in Blacktown City.
Mayor Bunting said, “Council’s sound financial management over many years has allowed us to handle several ongoing financial challenges, imposed by successive state government policies. These include restrictions on Council revenue due to NSW Government-imposed rate pegging and caps on levies from developers.”
“With a population of 435,000 across 54 suburbs, the future of our City lies in our hands. The Council’s budget initiatives are establishing the groundwork for our City’s future. This budget underscores the Council’s dedication to providing infrastructure and services in a manner that is efficient, effective, and sustainable,” Mayor Bunting said.
David Trist - 1982 and 2024. Photos supplied by Mark Pentecost.
Athletic talent celebrated at Blacktown City Sports Awards
SOME world-beating young athletes have been among those honoured at the 41st Blacktown City Sports Awards gala dinner.
Players, officials and volunteers were recognised for their achievements and contributions at the well-attended function at Bowman Hall, Blacktown, on Saturday.
Nicolas Diaz Ballas of Kellyville Ridge was named Sportsperson of the Year after he became a world champion in trampoline gymnastics.
Chelsea Gomez of Acacia Gardens claimed Female Junior Sportsperson of the Year for outstanding taekwondo achievements, whilst race walking talent Isaac Beacroft of Quakers Hill was named Male Junior Sportsperson of the Year.
Diesel Thompson of Minchinbury received Sportsperson of the Year (people with a disability) for his impressive swimming results and improvement.
There was a record number of nominations for the awards and Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was grateful for the community support.
“Blacktown City has an incredible array of sporting talent and I am pleased Council’s awards continue to be a highly valued way of recognising outstanding sportspeople,” he said.
“This is the sporting capital of Western Sydney and we are providing quality facilities and services to promote healthy lifestyles.
“Congratulations to the award winners and everyone who was nominated.
“I particularly want to thank our volunteers and officials. Without you, there would be no sport.”
Guest speaker and former Australian rugby league captain Brad Fittler also congratulated winners and nominees and encouraged young athletes to follow their dreams.
Blacktown City Sports Awards began in 1983 and receives more than 100 nominations each year.
Past recipients of the Sportsperson of the Year award include:
1. Footballer and Matildas representative Kyah Simon (2011)
2. Weightlifter and Paris Games Olympian Kyle Bruce (2023)
Nominations for next year’s award open on 1 July 2024.
For more information, see Blacktown City Sports AwardsBlacktown City (nsw.gov.au).
Isaac Beacroft (race walking) Male Junior Sportsperson of the
Gulsher Singh (athletics) Coach of the Year Glenwood
Nicole Masterson (football) Volunteer of the Year Eastern Creek
Darren Christopher (football) Sports Official of the Year (senior) Marsden Park
Natasha Mobb (softball) Sports Official of the Year (junior) Glenwood
U14 Boys CNSA Representative Softball Team Team of the Year Glenwood
Melanie Rafton (rugby league) Administrator of the Year Tallawong
Kings Langley Little Athletic Centre Club of the Year Kings Langley
Barry Jones OAM (rugby league) Mayoral Shield Minchinbury
Diesel Thompson (swimming) Sportsperson of the Year (people with a disability) Minchinbury
Westmead Hospital transforms for ‘mass casualty’ scenario with 150 staff involved in immersive training
FROM triaging hundreds of patients to media press conferences, Westmead Hospital has mobilised for an impressive exercise featuring over 150 staff simulating a crisis response.
Using the scenario of a nearby stadium collapse, teams were broken into 20 groups and spent a day running through the exercise to test system capacity, operations and response when faced with a disaster situation.
Known as ‘emergotrain’, this exercise is a Swedish disaster training tool which provides a chance to review mass casualty plans particularly following COVID. This event was the first to run in NSW since 2019 and took over six months of planning.
The day started with an all-in briefing at one of the lecture theatres in Westmead Hospital, outlining the details of the disaster (dubbed ‘Exercise
Janus’) which involved a stadium collapse and the assessment of preliminary impacts on the hospital.
Staff were then split into teams according to their function in the crisis, and separated to each of their departments in the Westmead hospital WECC.
This ranged from the hospital’s emergency operations centre (EOC) to departments representing areas like emergency, operating theatres, intensive care, pharmacy and radiology, with participants from a variety of specialties to simulate as closely as possible how a real-life disaster event would unfold.
Each team was equipped with a special phone line, packs containing details of the scenario and live updates were relayed back and forth to the EOC and clinical areas to recount new information which would impact proceedings, and resources required.
After several hours to let the exercise run its course for immediate reactions and establishment of workflows in this event, all participants reconvened to share key learnings from the practice.
Whether it was an increased need for communication between departments or a surplus of helpers that were identified by each group, these learnings helped to demonstrate how the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) community would rally in the event of a large-scale disaster.
The day was organised by Deputy Director of the Emergency Department at Westmead Hospital, Dr Kavita Varshney, and involved the assistance of over 40 instructors, medical umpires and runners to execute the detailed plans.
“Exercise Janus has provided us with a very unique opportunity to prepare for the worst case scenario and refine our strategy for mass casualty events in a controlled environment,” Kavita said.
“Seeing the enthusiasm and commitment of staff from all areas of the hospital was very rewarding, and I sincerely thank all who participated for their dedication to patient care.
“It speaks volumes of the staff at Westmead Hospital and the district that we can invest our time and energy into these training exercises and have such a positive outcome from this learning opportunity.”
The full list of winners below:
Nicolas Diaz Ballas (trampoline gymnastics) Sportsperson of the Year Kellyville Ridge
Year Quakers Hill
Chelsea Gomez (taekwondo) Female Junior Sportsperson of the Year Acacia Gardens
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting and Brad Fittler congratulate Sportsperson of the Year Nicolas Diaz Ballas.
Female Junior Sportsperson of the Year Chelsea Gomez
Sydney’s BIGGEST dinosaur event roars into Sydney Zoo these school holidays!
GET ready to step back in time as Sydney Zoo in Eastern Creek transforms into a prehistoric wonderland with the NEW Dinosaur Safari - this year, with double the dinos!
Starting from July 6th, Sydney Zoo’s 4,000 animals will be joined by an impressive array of life-size, moving, and roaring dinosaurs. Armed with your Safari map, you’ll discover all your
favourite beasts, from the giant T-Rex with its razor-sharp teeth and powerful presence, to the majestic Brachiosaurus with its towering neck and gentle demeanour, and the swift Velociraptor, known for its intelligence and agility.
Plus, explore many more incredible dinosaurs along the way.
The immersive Safari trail promises endless fun and surprises at every turn, letting your imagination run wild as
you explore a world where dinosaurs come to life before your eyes.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Don’t miss the NEW interactive Raptor show, running daily in the zoo’s amphitheatre. Get up close with the fierce yet captivating star of the show and be prepared to roar with delight.
For budding palaeontologists, the Dino Dig offers a chance to uncover hidden treasures. Brush away the sand to reveal dinosaur bones and experience the excitement of discovery firsthand –a perfect activity for curious minds and aspiring scientists.
Then, be sure to follow the footprints and snap a photo inside the jaws of a giant Megalodon to capture lasting memories.
Sydney Zoo’s Dinosaur Safari is FREE with your zoo entry ticket, making it the ultimate destination for families these school holidays. Kids’ tickets are just $19.99, parking is FREE, and so are kids under 3, offering incredible value for an adventure of prehistoric proportions.
Don’t miss out on Sydney’s BIGGEST dinosaur event at Sydney Zoo – on for a limited time only.
CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Gleaming (8)
Steel and brass, for example (6)
Renounce (8) 10. Groups of 8 (6)
Leaves (5)
Retinue (9)
Australian (6)
Young women (7) 19. List of names at the end of a movie (7) 21. Elaborate (6) 23. Tautness (9) 25. Chain link or barbed wire (5)
26. Preferences (6) 27. Constructing (8)
Select (6) 29. Sheets and blankets (8)
DOWN
Contraptions (6)
An establishment (9)
Fees (5)
4. Lack of sophistication (7)
6. Expulsion (9)
7. Sporting venue (5)
8. Apprehensiveness (8)
11. A distinct part (4)
15. Rapidity (9)
17. Annex (9)
18. Rapturous (8)
20. Spotted (4)
21. See (7)
22. Condescends (6)
24. Zest (5)
25. Confronted (5)
ALEX SONCINI
LCredit score calculations - what they mean for you?
ENDERS now have access to more information than ever about your credit history. In this article, we’ll break down what Comprehensive Credit Reporting is and the impact it might have.
What is Comprehensive Credit Reporting (CCR)?
Credit bureaus compile credit reports based on feedback about credit behaviour from banks and other credit providers. Credit reports contain a credit rating between zero and 1200 as a measure of creditworthiness.
CCR is the information that lenders can access via credit rating agencies about your clients’ credit history. The introduction of CCR changed the type of consumer credit information that can be collected and reported. Previously, Australia only had a negative credit reporting system but now this includes positive information.
This includes whether your clients’ have a mortgage, mortgage repayment history going back two years, credit card limits and repayment history, and repayment history on car or personal loans.
It has been mandatory since 2019 for the big four banks to use CCR
more fully and apply it when making credit assessments. It is still optional for smaller banks and other lenders however many are providing account information.
Who does this impact?
In short, this impacts all eligible consumer credit accounts. These are accounts which provide or can provide consumer credit such as home loans, personal loans, car loans, credit cards and overdrafts.
The consumer credit accounts include more than 80 per cent of all mortgages and credit cards in Australia which have been reported and the big four banks and lenders who have opted in must continue to keep the information up to date.
How does it impact you?
Those with good overall credit histories could eventually get a lower interest rate and those without may be charged a premium rate or find it more difficult to obtain credit.
It should increase competition leading to better deals on mortgages, personal and business loans in the long run.
The inclusion of ‘positive’ information can balance the ‘negative’ information previously reported.
It will provide greater transparency
on a borrower’s credit history and their ability to pay a loan.
Therefore, if you have a good credit history – paying down their mortgage, haven’t missed a payment on their car loan and their credit cards are under control – you might be able to demand a better deal on interest rates, or shop around armed with their data.
What can you do to ensure a strong credit report?
• Regularly review their credit report
• Report any errors
• Pay bills and make loan repayments on time
• Pay their credit card off in full each month
• Lower credit card limits
• Consider consolidating debt
• Limit credit enquiries, as frequent applications can look bad on your credit report
• Remove your name from utility bills if you move
• Be cautious about identity theft.
How to download a credit report?
Request a copy from a credit reporting body like Equifax, illion or Experian.
The good news is, there are situations where negative credit listings such as defaults and court
judgments can be removed from a credit file which will dramatically improve a credit score, however that’s another topic on its own.
The bottom line is a good credit score has never been more important as lenders are becoming more risk conscious and lending policies are getting tighter. Due to this I recommend everyone checks their credit score before applying for finance as no one likes nasty surprises.
To get a better understanding of your credit situation or get a copy of your credit report contact Alex Soncini at Wealthwiz for a free home loan review on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.
Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional fax or financial advice. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. For information about whether a loan may be suitable for you, call us on 0419 600 177.
Quakers Hill Community Centre upgrades
IMPORTANT work is now complete at the Quakers Hill Community Centre, providing new and improved lighting and repaired timber flooring.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting said, “These upgrades to this important community centre mean we can continue to provide the quality meeting spaces our local community deserves”.
Council’s community centres provide vital spaces for life-long
learning and social and cultural activities. Our Quakers Hill Community Centre is a popular space, well-used by local community members for a wide range of events including fitness classes, weddings, parties, prayer groups, meetings and concerts.
Mayor Bunting said, “We thank the NSW Government for funding these community centre upgrades through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program. The
NSW Government provided $34,815 in funding for this work for Quakers Hill.
Blacktown City Council maintains 40 neighbourhood and community centres to provide important gathering spaces for local communities. To help ensure the longevity and functionality of our community centres, the NSW Government has funded specific upgrades to several pieces
of community infrastructure within Blacktown City.
Council will continue work on a range of projects that are providing upgrades to existing community infrastructure throughout Blacktown City.
Teacher Edgar Fuller
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
EDGAR was born in June 1825 at Waltham Abbey, Epping Forest District, Essex, England and baptised at Dr Williams Library in London, England of Baptist faith. His father’s name was Thomas Fuller who married Elizabeth Marie Edwards. Edgar married Mary Anne Faithfull in May 1850. She was born in 1825 at Camberwell, the Borough of Southwark, Greater London. Edgar and Elizabeth arrived from Adelaide as steerage passengers into New South Wales in October 1850 on the ship “Jane Morrison”. In March 1855 Edgar obtained a Hawkers & Peddler’s Licence at Strawberry Hill. This area was part of a 70-acre land grant to John Palmer in 1794 and close to Sydney. In January 1856 Edgar signed a petition to elect James Martin Esq to represent the city of Sydney in the new Parliament, and in July 1860, now living at Castlereagh he signed a petition under the Municipal Act in Penrith not to make his locality into a municipality. In 1879, Edgar now living at Colyton asked for the first quarterly list of horse and cattle brands. In June 1880 in the “Appointments for Teacher at Colyton Public School”, his Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council was pleased to appoint Mr Edgar Fuller to the offices specified such appointments to take effect. He obtained a position as a teacher at Colyton Public School after a Teachers Character Reference from James Young & John Guild of St Marys. He was the first principal of the school and headmaster but between that time he was removed from Colyton to a teaching position at Dural Public school at an annual salary of £102 a year that was later cancelled and he returned to Colyton public school. It is said that he ran a private school for several years before the Government School system began and at that time he would send the boys out into the bush to gather wood that he would sell as a private means of income, even though the parents of the boys were paying him to educate their sons. In 1883 he stated that he was 58 years old and he was out of service from 1st May 1860 to 13th April, 1861. In a letter to the Postmaster General in July 1883 from Edgar saying, “On behalf of the people of this district, I beg to ask if you will be pleased to consider the advisability of establishing a Post Office here, this request is for Colyton”. In the will of James Davis in March 1889 of Mount Druitt, farm labourer deceased, the executors of the will were William Emert of Mount Druitt, fruit-grower and Edgar Fuller of the same place, Schoolmaster. Also in April the Minister had approved the recommendation that Edgar be allowed to retire from the service on 30th June 1889 and by August that year Edgar retired from the School and received a pension of £72 a year granted under the Civil Service Act of 1884, and teacher J D Miller takes his place coming from Burrill Public
school. His wife Mary Anne died at the age of 68 in July 1893. The Nepean Times obituary reads “Another old resident, Mrs Fuller (Nee: Faithfull) was the wife of the schoolmaster at the Colyton Public School. She was very much loved and respected all over the district and had been ailing for a very long time, suffering mainly from senile decay. Edgar died in June 1916 and lived to the ripe old age of 91 years and is buried with Mary in the churchyard of St Mary Magdalene church, St Marys. Photo of the grave at St Mary Magdalene cemetery from Ancestry online.
Sources: NSW State Archives website, Deceased Estates Index 1880-1958, Sydney Morning Herald, NSW Government Gazette, NSW School Teachers’ rolls 1869-1908 Volume 1, Ancestry family information, Nepean Times, Trove, NSW Unassisted Immigrant Passenger Lists, 1826-1922 for Fuller - Series 1291, Reports of vessels arrived (or Shipping reports) Reel 1277-1850 Jan 01-1850 Dec 29, NSW, Public Service Lists 1858-1960, registration of the Brands Act of 1856, Sydney, 18th June, 1880 - Department of Public Instruction, History of Mt Druitt NSW, The Nation Archives Post Office Files - Dated 1883 Filed B 79/12-Received 3rd July 1883, NSW Civil Service Colyton – Educational Dept. Teacher Public School. Classification 3a 1885. NSW Australia, Public Service Lists, 1858-1960.
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
Photo of the grave at St Mary Magdalene cemetery from Ancestry online.
Local teams set for Master Pennant Showdown
BY NOEL ROWSELL
PENRITH GC and Twin Creeks
CGC will recreate history this Sunday, when they meet at Liverpool GC at 8:15am, in the Division 2 Final of the 2024 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition.
These two clubs met in 2020, in the Final of the Division 2 Major Pennant competition, a historymaking day which resulted in a win to Twin Creeks but both teams winning promotion to Division 1 for 2021.
Fast forward to 2024 and the two clubs have both won promotion to Division 1 for Master Pennant but there will still be a prestigious title on the line when they match up on Sunday.
Penrith’s squad is Eric Banguis, John Bright, Denis Day, Jeff Gadd, Graeme Howland, Tony Hunter, Peter Morris, Duane Orth, Colin Stockley, Dale Turner, Scott Walker, and Robert Zadrevec, manager Danny Acret.
Twin Creek’s squad is Glenn Johnston, David McMillan, Ian Ashcroft, Greg Corben, Colin Gallen, Stephen Waite, John Glasheen, Tyrone Emtage, David Quirk, Michael Hogan.
In other qualification playoff matches, Monash defeated Stonecutters Ridge 6.5-1.5 in Division 1 and North Ryde defeated Richmond 4.5-3.5 in
Division 3.
Craig Baird won 3&2 and Andrew Moore was all square for Stonecutters Ridge.
Richmond and North Ryde turned on a nail-biter, with 3 matches squared, 3 won narrowly 2&1 and only 2 big wins - 1 to each club. Jason Moss won 5&4, Darren Adam won 2&1, Matt Horton was
all square, Richard Gerlach all square and Wayne Palmer all square for Richmond.
In the Relegation matches, Glenmore Heritage Valley fell 5.5-2.5 to The Coast and will drop to Division 3 in 2025, whilst Wallacia won 5-3 over Northbridge and will remain in Division 3 in 2025.
Local juniors to contest NSW Junior Championships
BY NOEL ROWSELL
SIXTEEN western Sydney juniors will contest the 2024 NSW Junior Golf Championships, over 9th -12th July, which will be played at Liverpool and Cabramatta Golf courses.
The NSW Junior Championships (both Boys and Girls Divisions) are open events and any player aged 12-17 Years who meets the Handicap Guidelines is eligible to register
Boy’s Maximum Handicaps per age group: 17
Years – 6; 16 Years – 9; 15 Years – 12; 14 Years – 15; 13 Years – 18; 12 Years – 21.
Girl’s Maximum Handicaps per age group: 17 Years – 10; 16 Years – 14; 15 Years -18; 14 Years –22; 13 Years – 26; 12 Years – 30.
The registered players from local golf clubs are: Jessica Fog, Riley Cleminson, Xavier Stamatakis, Nicole Son (Penrith GC), Annoushka Maikap, Sean Sammons, Jack Gillett, Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Luke Carruthers (Dunheved GC), Farmaan Dhillon (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC),
Other clubs represented are: Ti Fox, Chayse Thorpe (Concord GC), Darcy Mackay (The Australian GC).
There will be a cut following 36 holes, with the Top 100 Boys (plus ties) and all Girls qualifying to play the 3rd and 4th rounds. In addition to the Top 100 Boys and all Girls, a MINIMUM of 8 players from each of the Boy’s age divisions will also make the cut and qualify for the final 2 rounds.
Locals highly placed in NSWCHSSA Golf Championships
THE NSW CHSSA Golf Championships were held last week at The Coast and Moore Park golf courses. The event featured players from Combined High Schools (CHS), Combined Catholic Colleges (CCC) and Combined Independent Schools (CIS).
Jamie Smith (Australian Christian College, Marsden Park) and Michelle Bang (Marsden HS, Meadowbank) emerged victorious, dominating their respective divisions with outstanding performances.
Jamie clinched the win in the Boy’s division by 3 shots, finishing with a total score of 5-under-par after a stellar 6-under-par final round at The Coast GC on Day 3.
triumphed with a phenomenal 9-shot lead, finishing with a final score of 4-under-par after Wednesday’s 3rd round.
Stonecutters Ridge GC representative Michelle Yang (Cammeraygal HS) finished in a tie for 3rd place, ahead of former western Sydney local Camilla Kim in 5th, Annoushka Maikap (Our Lady of Mercy, Parramatta / Stonecutters Ridge
GC) 14th and Jordyn Deen (Australian Christian College, Marsden Park) 16th.
The top sixteen in both the Boys and Girls divisions qualified to play in the final round at The Coast GC on Thursday, with the Top 6 and 2 reserves in each division selected for the NSW All Schools team, which will play in the School Sports Australia Championship at Royal Canberra in August.
Jamie continued his outstanding form on Day 4, shooting a magnificent 63 (the lowest round of the tournament) for a total of 266, finishing 9 shots clear at the top of the qualifiers, ahead of Riley in 2nd on 275, Darcy 5th on 284, Chayse 8th on 289 and Blake 9th on 290. Jamie and Riley also finished 1st and 2nd respectively in the CIS standings, Darcy and Blake finished 1st and 2nd respectively in CCC, whilst Chayse was 4th in CHS.
Michelle Bang also continued to dominate in the Girls division, finishing 10 shots clear of the field, with Camilla 3rd with 288, Michelle Yang tied 8th on 300, Annoushka 14th on 312 and Jordyn 16th on 317.
Michelle Yang and Camilla finished 3rd and 4th respectively in CHS, whilst Jordyn finished 2nd in CIS.
Jamie, Riley, Darcy and Chayse (2nd reserve) were all chosen in the NSW Boy’s team, whilst former western Sydney junior, 13-year-old Camilla Kim, was chosen in the Girl’s team.
Richmond’s Darren Adam and Jason Moss. File pics by Noel Rowsell
FOR the record sixth time in Australia Cup history, Blacktown City FC has once again qualified for the Final 32 of the prestigious National competition. The stage is set for Blacktown City to represent our great city once again on the National stage. The Final 32 draw for the Australia Cup was announced last week and Blacktown City FC will host A League club Adelaide United at Landen Stadium on Wednesday, July 31st. Game time is set for 7:30pm and grandstand tickets are set to go on sale the first week of July. Check the Blacktown City FC website for further details.
The goal is to fill Landen Stadium as Blacktown City did in 2017 when the club beat Wellington and Central Coast in succession before losing to the Wanderers in front of 5,000 fans in a penalty shootout. Playing an A League side is always opportune for NPL 1 teams who get the chance to prove their ability. Two years ago, Blacktown lost a 1-0 Australia Cup thriller in Mudgee to the Central Coast Mariners in another major challenge to their more fancied opponents. The game will be ‘Live’ on Ten Play and could very well feature as the ‘Game of the Round’.
Heading up the Australia Cup campaign is Blacktown Head of Football, Mark Crittenden. Coaching the Senior Men since 2011, Critto last Saturday chocked up his 400th Game as the Senior Men’s coach. This is an amazing achievement in sport generally, and his winning record is one that has also maintained an ‘Old School’ culture that is the ambition of head coaches in all codes. Regarded as one of the best in the business, he has earned a reputation as a Coach who can bring out the best in talent and his winning record is testament to that.
Mark Crittenden started his association with Blacktown City back in 2004 coaching the Under 11’s. A few years later he oversaw the Under 15’s and one of his biggest decisions was to stick with his goalie – a fellow named Maty Ryan. Many around Mark commented that he should drop his young goalie, but Critto saw something special in the young lad. Going on to be the current Captain of the Socceroos, Maty Ryan is eternally grateful to his coach and the club for the opportunity he was given and recently spent hours with future Blacktown City Socceroo hopefuls.
Injuries have hit Blacktown City hard in their 2024 run to a playoff spot. In the last five weeks, Blacktown has uncharacteristically had three losses a draw and only one win. Blacktown still occupy the fifth playoff spot but hot on their heels are the West Sydney Wanderers, Wollongong Wolves and St George City who provided a major upset downing Blacktown 2-1 in Round 22 of the competition. Even worse the loss was on home ground at Landen Stadium.
With eight rounds remaining before the playoffs Rockdale are in the driver’s seat followed by Marconi, Apia and Sydney United. Blacktown are on the road the majority of July with the next crucial match on Sunday the 7th of July against main rivals Sydney United. Coach Crittenden will have to work some magic after the dismal performances against St George City and Rockdale in the last two home game losses. Next home game for Blacktown is the 28th of July against the West Sydney Wanderers. In only their third season of competition, Blacktown City Women are in eighth place on the ladder. In their last five games they have only had one loss and continue to improve on a weekly basis. Head of Women’s Football, Michael Hawthorne, said, “We continue to make great progress towards our goal to win the NPL 2 division and match our
Men in NPL 1 competition. This is only my first year with the Women and I am heartened by the desire and improvement we have demonstrated. Our Youth girls are all in the top four which plays well for our future”.
Wednesday, July 31st is a big moment for the city of Blacktown and Blacktown City! Buy your tickets early and Go Blacktown City!
Graham Crawhall, Maty Ryan with BCFC Juniors. Photos: Not24Get
Coach Critto with best mate and long-time Manager – Graham Crawhall.
Blacktown District features strongly in 2024 Sport NSW Awards
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE NSW Community Sports Awards were held at CommBank Stadium on Thursday night 20th June, recognising outstanding achievements and contributions to community sport in NSW.
The Blacktown and Hawkesbury districts both featured in the awards, with Colleen Brook (Wilberforce / Equestrian) and and Ronald Pollett (Tregear / Little Athletics) both receiving a Distinguished Long Service Award.
Football NSW (Glenwood) was a joint winner of the Inclusion Achievement Award of the Year and Blacktown City Council won the Local Council of the Year award.
Neil Holmes (Kingswood / Rowing) also won a Distinguished Long Service Award, whilst Gregory Smith (Cranebrook / Rowing) won the Community Official of the Year Award
Colleen Brook was honoured for her decades of dedicated and unselfish service to Equestrian, where she started teaching as a Junior Instructor in the late 1960’s.
As a Coach Educator, Colleen attended assessment days all over the country, and still helps every week with coach training. She coaches A Level 3, General, Showjumping and Eventing.
Ronald Pollett was honoured for his decades of dedicated and unselfish
service to Little Athletics. For over three decades, he has selflessly dedicated himself to the development
officials, and contributing to the growth and improvement of its programs.
Blacktown City Council is delivering more sports and recreation facilities than any other council in NSW including:
• The Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub (BEST), opened by Cathy Freeman OAM. BEST is a $100m nationally and internationally renowned facility which delivers research, health, rehabilitation, and performance outcomes for the community.
• The $15m Disability Sports Centre of Excellence will be delivered in partnership with the NSW Government serving seven Paralympic and adaptive sports, located within Blacktown International Sports Park.
• Supporting key partners and tenants such as Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT, construction has commenced on a 2-court extension of the indoor Kevin Betts Stadium
• Six new parks delivered, including sports grounds with community and State Sporting Organisations and five new play spaces delivered with community and Play Australia Council’s $273 million Western Sydney Infrastructure Grant projects also progressed including the new Mount Druitt PCYC, the refurbishment of two aquatic centres whilst $20m is being invested to improve recreational facilities, including Whalan Reserve Oval 2 - home of Blacktown City’s female cricket program.
Locals set to shine at Morgan Park in ASBK
ROUND 4 of the 2024 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), presented by Motul, will be held at Morgan Park Raceway, QLD over 12th-14th July and promises to be another thrilling display of motorcycle racing, with local western Sydney riders once again to be prominent in the standings.
Recent upgrades both on and and off the track to the Raceway have boosted the credentials of the venue, helping to further cement itself as a staple on the ASBK calendar.
The 12-turn layout is an absolute magnet for eyepopping battles across all the championship classes, from the premier Alpinestars Superbikes to the junior stars of tomorrow in the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup (OJC).
Elijah Andrew (Marayong), Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) and Zachary Russo (Sackville North) will all compete in the Oceania Junior Cup, William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise) will compete in the Australian Supersport 300, Jonathan (JJ) Nahlous (Glenwood), Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven), Jack Favelle (Cattai) will all compete in Michelin Supersport.
Andrew, Russo and Jordan are currently ranked
8th, 14th and 15th respectively in OJC, Hunt is ranked 20th in Supersport 300, Nahlous, Favelle and Farnsworth are ranked 1st, 2nd and 11th respectively in Supersport and Jake Passfield and Aaron Bennett are ranked 1st and 14th respectively in Superbike Masters, which is not competing at
Morgan Park. The Superbike Masters category is additionally broken up into classes, with Passfield ranked 1st in Period 6 Formula 1300cc and Bennett ranked 2nd in Period 5 Unlimited. Full race fields and results can be found on the www.computime.com.au website.
and success of the Mount Druitt Little Athletics Centre, officiating at countless events, mentoring fellow
