Western News 5 March 2021 by Nepean News

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Friday, 5 March 2021

ISSUE 130

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Uni Begins

A landmark for education in Western Sydney is being celebrated with the enrolment of the first students at Australian Catholic University’s Blacktown Campus. See page 9 for full story.

Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

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Hawkesbury Showgirl ready to reign 2021 ‘Hawkesbury Showgirl’ Eliza Babazogli has been wearing the crown for an extended reign, after initially being chosen for the 2020 role back in 2019. The arrival of Covid-19 resulted in the cancellation of the 2020 Hawkesbury Show, among many others around the country, so Eliza was asked to carry her crown through to 2021 and undertake the various commitments of the role this year. A Hawkesbury local, Eliza lives in Glossodia and has been involved in the Agricultural Industry since the age of 5, first showing horses at the Royal Easter Show as a 7-year old and being the proud recipient of an exhibitor’s National Title. Horses are a significant portion of her life, whilst partner Shannon is a cattle-man, working on his parent’s farm in Kurmond. Eliza will be working as an Ambassador for the Hawkesbury Show from 23rd-25th April. Being born and bred in the Agricultural world, Eliza has a passion for spreading the information on the Hawkesbury being the “Food Bowl” of Sydney. Prior to the Hawkesbury Show, Eliza and ‘Milton Showgirl’ (Emily Quinn) from this zone will head to the Royal Easter Show, from 1st-12th April, in a bid to also capture the title of Sydney Royal Showgirl. The candidates for Sydney Royal Showgirl have a full schedule of appearances every day of the Show, including a lunch at Government House, an Interview Day for all contenders, followed by a judging day for all contenders. Eliza will be highlighting her personal, local knowledge of the Agricultural industry, as well as a deep understanding of what is occurring in the industry on both a state and national level. Also on the busy schedule at the Royal Easter Show, Eliza will attend community events, meet local political leaders, business owners, livestock owners and exhibitors, to discuss their respective stories and experiences in the Agricultural industry. Judging at a local level takes place throughout the year at each of the participating local Show Societies, with the judging for Zone Finals being conducted in February/March of each year and the State Final during the Sydney Royal Easter Show. The contestants are judged on personality,

Emily Quinn (Milton Show Society) and Eliza Babazogli (Hawkesbury Showgirl) will both vie for the Royal Easter Showgirl title. Photo supplied.

confidence, ambition and life goals, general knowledge, rural knowledge, presentation and speech. Finalists are also asked to demonstrate knowledge of their local community and current affairs and apart from their potential ambassadorial qualities, contestants are also judged on their involvement in and experience of rural affairs. The winning Showgirl of each local Show Society is selected by a panel of three judges and remains Showgirl until the next year’s Show. She performs various tasks which could include opening a Show, public speaking throughout the year, presenting prizes for winners in agricultural events etc. Each local Show Society is a member of one of fourteen groups. Two groups combine to form one of seven Zones that make up the NSW area. In February/March of each year, Zone Finals are held in which each of the Zones select, from all the winners put forward by each of the individual Societies, a representative for the State Final. The Hawkesbury District has some the richest history in Australia, beginning with the original occupants the Darug and Darkinjung tribes. The Hawkesbury was the third settlement (1794) in Australia, after Sydney and Parramatta, Ebenezer Church (1809) is Australia’s oldest church and St

Matthew’s School (1835) is the oldest Catholic School in Australia. In 1891, the Hawkesbury campus was established as an agricultural college by the NSW Agricultural Society, the first Hawkesbury Agricultural Show was conducted at Clarendon in 1845 and the Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association formed in 1879. The earliest colonial farmers typically grew crops of maize, wheat and vegetables, with seed brought to the colony with the First Fleet. As stated by Eliza during our interview, the Hawkesbury District has long been termed Sydney’s Food Bowl. The first branch of the Bank of NSW (now Westpac) opened in Richmond in 1864, the Hawkesbury Agricultural College Rugby Union Football Club was founded in 1891 and Richmond Golf Course (1897) is believed to be the oldest golf club in Australia - which is still on it’s original site. Hawkesbury Race Club is the oldest established race club in Australia (1829), the Macquarie Arms Hotel (1815) in Windsor was the first licensed pub and John Tebbutt built the Tebbutt Observatory in Windsor in 1879. Tebbutt is recognised worldwide for his contribution to early pioneer astronomy.

Westmead Hospital emergency nurse gets first vaccine in western Sydney

housands of frontline workers at the greatest risk of potential exposure to COVID-19 have started to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination at Westmead Hospital as the rollout begins. The Westmead Vaccination Hub is one of the initial three vaccination hubs set up to provide the COVID-19 vaccine to the high priority groups in Phase 1a. Westmead Hospital emergency department nurse unit manager Dante Canete was the first to receive the jab from Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) this morning. “I’m happy to be part of the first group because I can lead by example, share my experience and encourage others to get the vaccine,” Mr Canete said. “This is for the entire world. Let us heal all together.” Work will continue as normal for the 48-yearold father of four, who has worked in Westmead Hospital’s emergency department for 19 years, including the designated area for suspected COVID-19 patients. “I am grateful to have an extra level of protection against COVID-19 and the roll out of the vaccine is

“Many staff from across the district have worked exceptionally hard to make this clinic possible and help protect Australians against a virus that has claimed so many lives around the world.” NSW Health is working closely with the Australian Government to implement a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccination program. For more information about COVID-19 vaccination in NSW, visit the NSW Health website.

Westmead Hospital ED nurse Dante Canete is all smiles after receiving his vaccine from authorised nurse immuniser Carly Hanington.

a really important milestone for my colleagues and I in the fight against the virus,” Mr Canete said. WSLHD Chief Executive Graeme Loy said the day was a momentous occasion in response to the pandemic. “We are extremely proud to be supporting Australia’s vaccine rollout in a significant capacity,” Mr Loy said.

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ulnerable residents will be able to seek shelter during heatwaves through a network of ‘heat refuges’ in an Australianfirst trial in Blacktown City. Blacktown City Council has approved the trial of ‘heat refuges’ – a network of Council and community-run air-conditioned venues where residents can go and be provided for during a significant heatwave event. Residents vulnerable to extreme heat include the elderly, people living with disability or chronic illnesses, and young children who do not have access to air conditioning. The network will initially include Council-owned venues (Lethbridge Park Community Centre, Tregear Community Centre, Whalan Community Centre, and Oakhurst Neighbourhood Centre) and community resources such as Blacktown Workers Club and Bidwill Uniting Church. The network will only be activated when the Bureau of Meteorology issues a ‘severe’ or ‘extreme’ heatwave warning. Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said the heat refuge trial was part of Council’s ongoing strategy to counter the effects of climate change. “Sydney overall averages 10 days a year where temperatures are above 35 degrees whereas Western Sydney averages 10 to 20 days a year of temperatures above 35 degrees,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “That figure is predicted to rise to between 15 to 30 extremely hot days by 2039 – this is a very concerning figure. “The goal of our heat refuge strategy is to make

sure the most vulnerable members of our community have a safe, local place they can go to on days of extreme heat.” Council plans to trial the heat refuge strategy on a small scale during the next heatwave and then add more venues if there is a demand within our community. Council was given grant funding of $54,500 by Resilience NSW through the Community Resilience Innovation Program to develop its heat refuge strategy. During a heatwave, the not-for-profit organisation Active Care Network will transport clients to the venues, while the trial also involves organisations including Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, and Settlement Services International. “We are so fortunate to have a network of

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

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Refuges to provide shelter during heatwaves

community stakeholders and venues joining Council in this important trial, and we thank them for their generosity and vision,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “Blacktown City Council has been a leader in urban environmental planning for decades and this trial is just one aspect of our ongoing commitment to addressing the many impacts of climate change on our community.” In February 2020, Council acknowledged a climate emergency requiring immediate action by all levels of government, and committed to a target of 100% renewable electricity for Council operations by 2025. Council also has a number of large-scale community tree planting programs aimed at reducing urban heat and is currently trialling heat reduced pavement reconstruction.

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Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

Office: (02) 9834 5579 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

hen we celebrate International Women’s Day each year I always like to look at how different the lives of Australian women are and how far we have come. I’d like to tell you a story about a married couple named Josie and Bill. It was Sydney in the mid 1960’s. Josie was a home maker, and Bill went to work. He also went to the pub. Every day. He’d burn a track from his daily routine, which was work, pub, then home. Josie didn’t have a driver’s licence so she didn’t get out much unless it was on foot. She spent most days waiting for Bill to come home, and she’d hear him singing all the way down from the top of the street. She’d stand outside the house so his intoxicated mind could process which place he lived in. Then she’d help his hefty frame through the door, help him bathe and in to bed, only to start the whole routine again the next day. Everyone in town loved Bill. He was a ‘top bloke to drink with, a true larrikin, so much fun to be around.’ But it wasn’t much fun for Josie. And in time it got worse. Bill would wake each morning and go straight to the fridge and pull out a longneck - and down the lot in one fell swoop. Josie confided to a neighbour how hopeless her life was with Bill. “Leave him,” the neighbour advised. Josie recoiled in horror. “I couldn’t! What would people think? They’d never accept me as a divorcee.” Feeling that she could never leave and change her life, Josie sunk deep in to depression. And late one night she took her own life. In the 1960s Bill was loved for being a bit of a lad. But Josie didn’t think she’d be accepted as a divorced woman. The story I’ve just told you is a true one. Josie and Bill were my grandparents. I feel extremely sad for my grandmother who was gone before I was born. But without knowing it, she gave me a gift. That gift is the strength to always stand up and speak up and to live by the motto of what’s good for the goose is also good for the gander. I thank her every day for that, as it has seen me through life. International Women’s Day is a great day to reflect and be thankful we live in this generation.

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Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

Schools set to benefit from the metro renewal program

ince the announcement of the Metro Renewal Program in November last year, schools have been invited to apply for renewal projects to improve their school facilities. Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly has welcomed the news that 5 schools in the Riverstone electorate will benefit as first recipients of the first round of funding, sharing $920,000 as follows: • Caddies Creek Public School - $150,000 for COLA, shade structures & walkways. • Glenwood High School $200,000 for Admin & Staff facilities upgrade. • John Palmer Public School $100,000 for playground upgrade. • Kellyville Ridge Public School $300,000 for COLA, shade structures & walkways. • Wyndham College (Nirimba Education Precinct) $170,000 for structural, fabric & building upgrade. The NSW Liberal Government’s $240 million Regional and Metro Renewal Programs are rolling out across the state with more than 790 schools set to benefit in the first round alone.

“I’m delighted that these 5 schools in the Riverstone electorate have had their projects funded by this new program, which will be undertaken in the next 18 months as part of the NSW Liberal Government’s economic stimulus package for NSW schools,” said Mr Conolly. The Metro Renewal Program will provide a government co-contribution of between 50 to 80 per cent for school infrastructure improvements to high priority schools in metropolitan areas. Projects may include new and upgraded covered outdoor learning areas, science facilities, toilet blocks, administration buildings and canteens.

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Celebrating women across the region, and the world

nternational Women’s Day has occurred for well over a century with the first gathering held in 1911. It is not country, group, nor organisation specific. No one government, NGO, charity, corporation, academic institution, women’s network, or media hub is solely responsible for International Women’s Day. The day belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist once explained: “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist, nor to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” So make International Women’s Day your day and do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women. The purpose of the International Women’s Day website is to support the supporters, and in doing so it provides a platform to help forge positive change for women.

Whether hosting an event, running a campaign, launching an initiative, reporting on achievement, donating

to a female-focused charity, or more - there are many ways groups and individuals can mark International

Women’s Day. Three central beliefs underpin and guide the purpose and provisions of the International Women’s Day website: • identifying, celebrating and increasing visibility of women’s achievements can help forge equality • strategic collaborations based on a foundation of shared purpose, trust and appreciation can impact positive change for women • worldwide awareness raising via meaningful narratives, resources and activity can help combat gender bias and discrimination to accelerate gender parity Do we still need an International Women’s Day? Yes! There’s no place for complacency. According to the World Economic Forum, sadly none of us will see gender parity in our lifetimes, and nor likely will many of our children. Gender parity will not be attained for almost a century. There’s urgent work to do - and we can all play a part.

New researchers set to improve health in western Sydney with Kickstarter grants

ung cancer, spinal pain and artificial intelligence are among the topics going under the microscope thanks to $80,000 in research grants distributed across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD). The ten ‘Kickstarter’ grants were funded by the WSLHD Research and Education Network and awarded to eight early-career researchers from Auburn, Blacktown and Westmead hospitals, drawn from allied health, medical and nursing disciplines. WSLHD executive director of research Professor Mark McLean said the grants are designed to enable clinicians to dedicate time toward research that will make a difference for patients. “This is an exciting time for health research in western Sydney, and it’s fantastic to see so many clinicians from a wide variety of backgrounds getting involved in research early in their careers,” Prof McLean said. “These start-up funds are a game changer as they enable staff to begin research that will potentially lead to a bigger project with serious investment.” Blacktown Hospital pharmacist Chin-Yen Yeo is among three allied health professionals to receive a Kickstarter grant this year. Her research will investigate the health literacy, perspectives and experiences of inpatients prescribed antibiotic therapy at Blacktown Hospital. “Antibiotics are high-risk medications which cause significant patient harm when used in error. Many consumers overestimate the benefits but underestimate the risk of harm from antibiotic use,” Chin-Yen said. “This is a research priority for

Auburn Community Dialysis Centre nurse unit manager Nelson Ubera with dialysis patient Sonia Shalala.

western Sydney, where English is not the first language for more than 50 per cent of the population. It’s a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with the Patient Experience and Consumer Engagement pillars to bridge the gaps in health literacy and patient safety. “It’s really fantastic that our district recognises the value of the allied health workforce in building research capacity at western Sydney. And it’s great to see so many allied health people with a passion for research and quality improvement.” Blacktown Hospital cardiologist Dr Henry Chen is using new imaging technology to study the impact of different components of cardiac dysfunction in heart failure, which disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. “For young specialists such as myself, the Kickstarter grant is an incredible opportunity to help me focus on my passion and to help all of us all to push the frontiers of our respective specialities,” Dr Chen said.

The eight funded projects are as follows: • Chin-Yen Yeo, pharmacy. A pharmacist-led study to explore the scope and appropriateness of antibiotic information communicated to inpatients at Blacktown Hospital. • Nada Bechara, podiatry. Studying whether vitamin C supplements improve the healing of foot ulcers and avoid the need for amputation.

• Katherine Maka, physiotherapy. Determining the usefulness of hospital patients completing their own preassessment summary when being treated for spinal pain. • Dr Jia Liu, medical oncology. Studying the effectiveness of using liquid biopsies to monitor for cancer recurrence in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy treatment for Stage III non-small-cell lung carcinoma (the most common form of lung cancer). • Dr Jocelyn Jiang, immunology. Studying other ways of detecting inflammation in the fluid found in the brain and spinal cord. • Dr Jacqueline Chen, endocrinology. Using artificial intelligence to detect vertebral fractures on chest x-rays ordered for other conditions. • Dr Henry Chen, cardiology. Using new imaging technology to study the impact of different components of cardiac dysfunction in heart failure. • Nelson Ubera, Auburn Community Dialysis Centre. Studying how cognitive function affects falls and fractures in patients receiving haemodialysis.

Blacktown Hospital Kickstarter grant recipients Dr Henry Chen, Dr Jocelyn Jiang, Nada Bechara and Chin-Yen Yeo.

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COVER STORY

landmark for education in Western Sydney is being celebrated with the enrolment of the first students at Australian Catholic University’s Blacktown Campus. Up to 700 undergraduate students will be enrolled this year to study at ACU Blacktown’s vertical campus in Main Street Blacktown. The first students to be enrolled were welcomed to the campus by Australian Catholic University ViceChancellor Professor Zlatko Skrbis and Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM. Professor Skrbis said; “This is a very exciting day for our University and for education in Western Sydney. ACU Blacktown is our third campus in Sydney and is situated in a region of exciting growth and development. “I’m delighted because so much planning, preparation and work has gone into setting up this campus. We’ve been really blessed with the collaboration and partnership that we have with Blacktown City Council. “But this is about students and I’m delighted to see such a large and diverse cohort of students here today. I can see their excitement, I can see that they feel that they have arrived at the right place, we are so excited to have them here.” Professor Skrbis said.

(L-R): Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, Nursing student Faith Edeko, Vice-Chancellor Professor Zlatko Skrbis, and high-performance sport student Oskar Stamiucha on the first student orientation day at ACU Blacktown.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale said; “This day has been more than 2 decades in the planning. “Up to 18 thousand students travel out of Blacktown City each day to study at university. But now students have the opportunity to study at one of Australia’s leading universities right here in Blacktown city centre. “It’s a game changer absolutely in terms of education for our city. No great city can grow without fantastic education opportunities and certainly ACU is now providing another level

of education right here in Blacktown City. “Council has been instrumental in welcoming ACU and we’re delighted that hundreds of our students can now look forward to getting a quality education without having to commute for hours across Sydney.” Faith Edeko from the Blacktown suburb of Colebee has enrolled in a nursing degree in the Health Sciences faculty. “As a Blacktown local, I really love how everything is interconnected.

There’s shopping centres, there’s the Max Webber Library nearby so I can do research and everything including the train station is easily accessible.” Champion swimmer, 18-year old Oskar Stamiucha completed his HSC at St Dominic’s college, Kingswood and is studying high-performance sport. “Swimming is my life at present and I eventually want a career in high-performance coaching. I’m also excited to see the plans for Council’s International Centre of Training Excellence. “I’m thrilled to be able to study in Western Sydney because I’m from Western Sydney and this campus is close by and convenient. I think it’s just really good for the community.” ACU Blacktown is offering degree courses in Education, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law and Business. ACU’s Blacktown Campus has been developed in partnership with Blacktown City Council and is named in honour of St Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of Sudan and of victims of slavery. Blacktown City is home to one of Australia’s largest Sudanese communities. The official opening and blessing of Australian Catholic University’s Saint Josephine Bakhita Campus, Blacktown will be held on 12 March.

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Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

First students officially welcomed to ACU Blacktown

Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

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Neurosurgery patient proud to be part of Westmead Hospital’s health history

etty Barakat made Westmead Hospital history last week when she became the first neurosurgery patient in the new operating theatres of the Central Acute Services Building (CASB). The Georges Hall resident, who underwent minor wrist surgery, was surprised to be part of Western Sydney’s important health story as the new hospital building opened its doors to the public. “It’s exciting to be part of the celebration here with the team,” Betty said. “It feels good to be involved in the hospital’s history and I’m glad to be able to have my wrist fixed in the new theatre. “This will give me something to talk about when I get older.” Sixteen new operating rooms will gradually open over the next few days in addition to the existing theatres to remain operational in the current hospital. The digitally-enhanced pods feature state-of-the-art technology and allow students to view operations without physically stepping into the room. Westmead Hospital perioperative

First neurosurgery patient Betty Barakat in the new CASB operating theatres.

services senior nurse manager LeeAnn McDonald said the staff were excited about the new rooms. “Today we will open two operating rooms and as a safety precaution, gradually open up more throughout the week,” Lee-Ann said. “The new theatres mark a major milestone in our 43-year history. But with plenty of training and practice in the new environment, we’re ready to go. “We currently perform more than 33,000 operations each year; we

anticipate this will increase to 40,000 surgeries annually with the additional rooms.” Westmead Hospital operating theatre registered nurses Lynda Nguyen, Beena Shaji and LeeAnn Sylvester agreed the new theatres reminded them of that “new car” feeling – it’s bright, light and has all the latest technology. Neurosurgeon Dr Kim Jun was proud his team was performing the first neurosurgery in the new hospital. “It’s like moving into a new house

and everything is brand new,” Dr Jun said. “Our experienced staff hasn’t changed. But now we’re in this amazing new facility. It’s fantastic! “The rooms are much bigger and as the technology evolves, we can do more complex cases.” The new operating theatres on Level 3 of the 14-level CASB mark the third Westmead Hospital service to enter the facility following the relocation of the emergency department last Wednesday and the central sterile services department on Friday. The CASB is the centrepiece of the more than $1 billion Westmead Redevelopment. As the biggest health infrastructure project in the state, it will revolutionise the Westmead Health Precinct and deliver an innovative, integrated facility that will continue to deliver high-quality healthcare for decades to come. The CASB will ultimately feature: • Two new emergency departments (one for adults and one for children) • 25 digital operating theatres • More than 300 modern patient bedrooms.

Nurse retires after 45 years

he Western Sydney Local Health District community health team will be a little quieter now after the retirement of beloved and long-serving nurse Jenny Jackson. After a 45-year career caring for the most vulnerable, Jenny has retired from Western Sydney Local Health District and plans to enjoy the time to declutter her house and smell the roses. The Integrated and Community Health clinical nurse educator started her career as a registered nurse at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children (now known as The Children’s Hospital at Westmead) in March 1976. In 1988, Jenny briefly joined Westmead Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit before venturing into the community health team in 1989, where she stayed for more than 30 years. “I’ve met many wonderful people over the years and will miss their friendship and support,” Jenny said. “It gives me great satisfaction and is a privilege and honour to know that I’ve made a difference in someone’s life – whether it be a patient or another staff member.” Over the course of her career, Jenny had the opportunity to work as a nurse in countries including

Scotland, England and Saudi Arabia. “When I worked overseas I worked in special and newborn care and paediatrics. Australian nurses were very highly thought of and it was a great experience,” Jenny said. During her time at WSLHD she has worked as a generalist community nurse, nurse unit manager, Child and Family Health clinical nurse consultant and StEPS Vision Screening Program project officer. In her role as clinical nurse educator she supported new nurses, coordinated student placements and education programs, and conducted manual handling and basic life support training exercises for nursing staff. “Working as a nurse, we are in a privileged position caring for people when they are at their most vulnerable, and I will miss this responsibility,” Jenny said. “I’m excited about this next stage in my life. It’s something I’ve worked towards and now it’s here and I plan to enjoy it.” Integrated and Community Health education coordinator Carol Denne said community health had benefitted from Jenny’s role in the team. “Jenny’s presence will be missed by all but

Jenny was presented with a certificate celebrating 30 years of service to WSLHD Integrated and Community Health.

particularly her colleagues in the education team”, Carol said. “Many staff have commented that they will miss her wonderful sense of humour, booming voice, lovely smile and delightful laugh which can be heard from afar.” We wish Jenny happy years ahead as she embarks on her retirement after decades of supporting staff and the clients across the district.

Prospect Highway Upgrade moves up national priority list The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the announcement by Infrastructure Australia to lift the Prospect Highway Upgrade to “priority project” status following a review of the project’s business case. “Blacktown is on the cusp of transforming into one of Australia’s great urban centres,” the Property Council’s Western Sydney Regional Director Ross Grove said today. “The local council has a bold vision for its CBD and is following through with action on the ground,

so sooner is definitely better when it comes to upgrading the key access roads like the Prospect Highway. “The current road is two lanes and a chore to drive on. Blacktown has experienced significant growth since the road was initially built and the corridor exists to enable widening in the future. “With the business case prepared, reviewed and given a ‘thumbs-up’ now is the time to build the road to the width the city needs, rather than what we presently have.

“As the key connection from the Blacktown CBD to the M4 this upgrade is a must-have to ensure the city reaches its potential.” The Infrastructure Priority List currently features 20 initiatives and projects of relevance to Western Sydney, and the most recent publication updates the status of the Prospect Highway upgrade and Picton Road to reflect the latest information. A copy of the updated Infrastructure Priority List can be found at www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/ infrastructure-priority-list

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estern Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has welcomed 85 graduate nurses and midwives across western Sydney hospitals and community services. The graduate nurses and midwives are part of the first intake for the year, joining a total of 300 graduates to join the District by May 2021. The nurses and midwives have commenced work at WSLHD as part of the 12-month Gradstart program, which includes clinical rotations and educational support for future specialisation and career development. WSLHD Nursing & Midwifery and Clinical Governance director Caroline Farmer welcomed the new graduates during the first orientation of the year. “These new graduate nurses and midwives will be an important addition to the Western Sydney, providing further support to our current staff who have continued to deliver quality health care during the challenges of 2020 and the year ahead,” Caroline said. “To all our new graduates, a sincere welcome. I hope that the learning and development opportunities in the upcoming months will support the strengthening of your clinical skills and knowledge, ensuring that as a valued member of our nursing and midwifery workforce that we continue to ensure a positive patient journey and the safety of our patients.” For registered nurse Paris McNaught, starting a career in Westmead Hospital is a big change. Paris grew up in Orange and used to work in the mining industry, driving trucks. “I have always wanted to become a nurse. I received a Certificate in Aged Care when I was still in high school and I also looked after my brother after his bike accident,” Paris said. “It is exciting to finally follow my dream. Moving to Sydney is a massive change for me, but I am looking forward to advancing my skills and learning. One day I hope to become a flight nurse.” Health Minister Brad Hazzard extended a warm welcome to the new nursing and midwifery recruits as they embark on their career with NSW Health. “These enthusiastic nursing and midwifery graduates join NSW Health at an historic moment, in the middle of an unprecedented pandemic,” Mr Hazzard said.

Nursing and Midwifery new graduates welcomed on their first day by Director of Nursing Kate Hackett

“They will have a unique opportunity to play a vital role in our extraordinary healthcare system as it continues to battle against the threat of COVID-19.” More than 54,000 nurses and midwives currently work in the NSW public health system, an increase of 24.7 per cent since 2011. The NSW Government has invested in a record

total 8,300 frontline health staff over four years, including an additional 5,000 nurses and midwives, including mental health and palliative care nurses. To be eligible for the Gradstart program, a candidate must complete a Bachelor of Nursing or Midwifery. For more information about the Gradstart program, visit: www.health.nsw.gov.au/ nursing/employment/Pages/recruit.aspx

Western Sydney’s Gradstart registered nurses. Left to right: Paris Manaught, Douglas Myers, Layla Manson, William Gauke, Georgia Clements

Westmead volunteers back in action and serving Western Sydney

estmead Hospital volunteers are gradually returning to the hospital after a year’s absence since the COVID-19 outbreak began in 2020. Buggy drivers and way-finders have been the first groups who have returned to the hospital, providing assistance to people accessing the Central Acute Services Building at Westmead Hospital. The volunteers will return throughout the year for safety reasons to allow their tasks to be reviewed and to check that COVID-19 safety plans are being followed. Westmead Hospital corporate services director Renata Melan said the dedicated volunteers have helped patients, visitors and staff for more than 40 years and have been really missed during their absence. “Their commitment and valuable contributions to the organisation has

Westmead Hospital volunteers Victor Calandruccio, Marilyn Calandruccio and Ben Westerbrink.

been unwavering and it’s lovely to welcome them back to Westmead Hospital” Renata said. Volunteer hospital guide Ben

Westerbrink who normally woke up at the crack of dawn for his volunteer duties found himself sleeping in during the COVID pandemic.

Providing directions and escorting people to their destinations is something that Ben really enjoys. When he was away from the hospital he spent his time working on the garden and even treated himself to a holiday once the COVID restrictions eased in November. “I’m delighted to be back at work because people are really friendly and appreciate what I do to help them,” Ben said. Westmead Hospital has a volunteer workforce of 80 people who provide more than 20 services to the wards and departments. Some services include assisting visitors in the Intensive Care Unit, basic administration duties, Justice of the Peace services and fundraising. If you are interested in volunteering at Westmead Hospital, send an email to WSLHD-WSTM-VOL@health. nsw.gov.au or call 02 8890 9046.

Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

300 nursing and midwifery graduates join Western Sydney

Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

Lance Skuthorp & the Skuthorp Family L ance Skuthorp Snr. was born at Kurrajong on the 15th December, 1870 and spent most of his life as a young man on the family property at Garah in northern N. S. W. He became a legend in his own lifetime, being a champion rodeo rider, a master horse trainer, a showman, a cattle drover, prize fighter, athlete, writer, and storyteller. He is acknowledged as having pioneered the rodeos and buck jumping shows that began in Australia in the late 1800s. He is featured in several exhibits in the Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach, Queensland, and also in the Australian Outback Heritage Book - “The Stockman”. He and the Skuthorp family are also featured throughout the Jenny Hicks book Cowboys, Roughriders and Rodeos. In 1896 he performed the first of two publicity stunts that made him famous throughout Australia. After backing himself for ₤200 and watched by a huge crowd, including cattle king Sidney Kidman, he borrowed a horse and repeated the poet Adam Lindsay Gordon’s feat of jumping a six foot fence and landing on a six foot ledge bordering on the edge of the Blue Lake of Mount Gambier. In 1906 ‘Bobs’ was recognised as the best buckjumper in Australia and it was claimed that no man could ride him. Lance took up the challenge and it became a much publicised event. The rivalry between the various rodeo shows enabled the publicity to continue for several weeks. The event was finally held in Rawson Place, Sydney and was attended by a crowd of more than 3,000 people, including the Governor of the day. Lance rode ‘Bobs’ to a standstill and in doing so, he became a legend, reportedly winning ₤1,000 in prize money and wagers. Most of the time Lance managed his own buckjumping shows, but he also worked with other shows like Wirths circus, riding buckjumpers in their lion cage. It has been said that Lance was a likeable rogue, who was rich one day and broke the next. When he sold ‘Snips’, a champion buckjumper for ₤700, he spent all the money there before heading back to the bush. This was a pattern he continued throughout his life, making a fortune, blowing it all, and then starting out again from scratch. In 1902 he and his friend Charlie Philpott, drove a mob of 6,000 fat bullocks from the Wave Hill station in the Northern Territory, a distance of more than a 1,000 miles to Burrandilla Station, near Charleville in Queensland. There were no roads to follow, no bores to water the cattle, and the droving trip over the Spinifex plains and red sand hills took more than twelve months to complete. Lance was more than 40 years old when he married a 16 year girl, Violet King, who was appearing in his show. Violet was a very capable horse rider who was riding buckjumping bullocks in 1911. They reared three very talented children - Madge b. 1913, Lance Jnr. b. 1915, and Violet b. 1919, with Madge becoming known as an

artist. The other two children followed in their parent’s footsteps, with Lance Jnr. becoming well known as a horseman, fighter, wrestler, writer and song writer, writing many of the songs made famous by Tex Morton. Violet also became a champion horsewoman. It was the children who added the “e” to their name Skuthorpe. In her book Cowboys, Roughriders and Rodeos Jenny Hicks provided the following information under the heading - ‘The Incomparable Skuthorpes’ “In 1926 the Skuthorpe family worked their show through the Victorian country towns then headed onto Adelaide. The crew included Lance and his wife Violet, children Madge, Lance Jnr. and Violet Jnr., fourteen riders, a cook and scores of hangers on. The group had a total of 136 horses, five buffaloes, eight mules, and three donkeys, and were able to manage thirty miles per day. They arrived in Adelaide broke and Lance put the bite on Sir Sidney Kidman for money to publicise the show. Opening day at Jubilee Oval saw 14,000 people turn up and the money flowed in. After a successful season they lived it up in Adelaide for six weeks until they’d spent all their profits and then moved on to Port Pirie and Broken Hill. After that the seemingly indefatigable Mrs. Skuthorpe decided that enough was enough and they bought a house at Riverstone, on the outskirts of Sydney. Lance leased his show to another showman and started a brick business. The business went bust when the depression hit so he got a job at the Riverstone meatworks. Although over 60 years of age, it was the first time in his life he had ever held a regular job. On the weekends the family still did the occasional show around the district. TO BE CONTINUED......

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Western News

local news

tate Labor MPs are demanding answers on Rouse Hill Hospital and claim that the Berejiklian Government is “refusing to explain why it’s failed to deliver the Rouse Hill Hospital, nearly six years since the project was first promised.” Opposition Leader Jodi McKay said residents in Sydney’s rapidly growing North-West were promised Rouse Hill Hospital at both the 2015 and 2019 elections. “Rouse Hill Hospital remains in planning limbo with little money allocated in the Budget. It was initially budgeted at $600 million, which was then halved to $300 million when it was re-announced. The Government hasn’t completed due diligence reporting on the site, meaning it’s unclear if the location at Windsor Road is even suitable for a hospital,” Ms McKay said in a statement. “The Liberal Government has failed to build Rouse Hill Hospital despite local health services being overwhelmed. Blacktown Hospital is ranked as the most stressed in NSW.” Ms McKay visited the proposed site with the Shadow Minister for Health Ryan Park, the Member for Londonderry Prue Car and the Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali.

Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

Labor: Where is Rouse Hill Hospital?

Steven Bali, Member for Blacktown, Jodi McKay, NSW Opposition Leader, Prue, Ryan Park, Shadow Health Minister and local residents.

“I have visited the area a number of times and understand the frustration the community is feeling,” Ms McKay said. “Families are moving to the outer suburbs of Sydney but the local infrastructure is years behind. The Government has failed to plan for growth in Sydney’s North West. This Government is all talk and no action. The Government must explain why it is taking so long to build the Rouse Hill Hospital. We must deliver the

local infrastructure communities need, when it’s needed.” Mr Park said NSW is in the midst of a healthcare crisis. “This delay has real consequences for people. Patients have suffered, and the families of patients have suffered because of the Berejiklian Government’s broken promise,” he said. Ms Car added, “If you make a promise it should be honoured. The Liberals have promised Rouse Hill

Hospital twice have but failed to even start building it. Families in North West Sydney simply can’t trust the Liberals anymore.” Mr Bali said people felt let down. “The Government continues to make promises to the North West it can’t deliver. Blacktown City is one the fastest growing areas in NSW but the services and infrastructure just aren’t keeping up. We’re sick of being let down by this Government,” he said.

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Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

Western News

Getting a home loan when you’re self-employed

elf-employed people don’t have it easy when they want to get a home loan. Many self-employed borrowers come up against the challenge of not being able to simply present payslips and tax returns to back up their loan applications. But this need not stop you buying your dream home and great product. Lenders often shy away from those who work for themselves who can’t hand over payslips and employment records. The self-employed don’t always offer the financial stability a lender looks for in a borrower to prove the ability to service a loan and as such, as a self-employed person applying for a home loan, you’ll need to provide bank statements, financial records and declarations from your accountant before most lenders will even consider you. Even then, there will be many questions to answer, you must still prove that your income outstrips your spending and you can service the loan. Getting this right is more than presenting a lender with a few quick sums on the back of a napkin; it can take a solid six to 12 months of preparation. The way we work here in Australia has really changed over the last 20 years. More people are working for themselves, self-employed, running small businesses or freelancing across various fields/industries doing more than one job or working different sorts of hours. It’s an area of work that entrepreneurial and self-employed women are a growing share of

the Australian workforce establishing their own businesses. * Women business owners currently account for over 34% of all Australian business operators. Where many women have unique business conditions mixing work and family commitments. People who are self-employed are in a unique situation when it comes to taking out home loans. As a guide, here’s what to look for when seeking a loan provider, and here’s how to get yourself in the best financial shape possible when applying. Be organised and informed about your finances If you’re self-employed and have fluctuating income, or you’re reliant on different sources of revenue, do your research to see what might be accepted by lenders as alternative forms of earnings, including revenue from rent, shares and other investments. It is also important to show some proof of savings, as well as a good credit history. Savings, both genuine and non-genuine, can be in the form of funds held in a bank account or in a term deposit for over six months. To support your application, the key is to be as organised and as diligent with your financial records as possible and have these documents available for at least up to six months. Ensure also that your BAS (Business Activity Statements), tax returns and financial records are accurate, up to date and paid in full.

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Plan for future lean periods The often-unpredictable nature of selfemployment means that downturns and lulls in income can and do occur, which can potentially impact loan repayments. To prevent falling behind on repayments and risking any penalties, when you’re shopping around for the right loan, it could be helpful to look for ones that allow flexible repayments. This can help ensure that you have the flexibility to make extra repayments during periods when your income is regular and pay the minimum during low income. Having a redraw facility to use money already repaid can be invaluable to self-employed borrowers. What to look out for in a lender Self-employed home loan applicants should look for lenders that offer flexibility, are understanding about an individual’s circumstances and the challenge of not being able to simply present payslips and tax returns. Whether the lender accepts alternative documentation for their application for credit approval. Simplicity, flexibility and clarity are the essential ingredients for anyone who is self-employed 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. * www.employment.gov.au/newsroom/statisticalsnapshot-women-australian-workforce

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Western News

SPORT

he Australian Wrestling Federation returns in 2021 for AWF Pro-Wrestling Reset at Blacktown Bowman Hall on Friday 12 March, for a massive professional wrestling extravaganza that will be the start of monthly fan friendly live events at Blacktown Bowman Hall and will set the stage for AWF’s 22nd Year of Pro-Wrestling Events! AWF Commissioner Matt Svenson commented: “The wait is finally over. The Australian Wrestling Federation will return to live events in 2021 after a forced break due to the pandemic. Our wrestlers are pumped, our team is ready. AWF Army of supporters, we are calling on you to come and support AWF Pro-Wrestling Reset at Blacktown and the follow up events. Make the trip to Blacktown each month. The events are going to present world class quality wrestling, that any fan young or old will be able to enjoy. This will be a monthly event that you will feel part of and not want to miss.” A massive AWF Pro-Wrestling

Reset event is planned, with AWF Championship Bouts Announced! - AWF Tag Team Title Bout: Mad Maxx (Chile) & Darius Vega Vs TNT (Blacktown local and world travelled professional) & Hell Yeah (C) - AWF Commonwealth Title Tables Bout: Abaddon Vs Whiskey Sixx (C) Plus other Attraction Bouts: Women’s Action: Nikki Poteet Vs Coby Starr

Nikki Poteet

- Heated Issues: The Outsider Vs Linstrom - Size Vs Speed: The Mauler Vs Aries - Newcomers First Impact: Torture & Trauma Services Vs Tobias Hemmingsworth Jr & Mystery Partner - Returning Talent Vs Seasoned Veteran: Matt Static Vs Shane Saw 7 Huge Bouts for over 2 hours of action! Expect surprises galore! Anything can and will happen! Stay tuned to the AWF Website at www.awfwrestling.com.au for interviews from wrestlers, and a special This Is AWF Wrestling Youtube episode in the lead up. Tickets are limited and selling now! Get your VIP Ringside Seats for $40, or First Release General Seats for $30 at www.awfwrestling.com.au Don’t miss the action and excitement of #awfreset #awfblacktown This will sell out! Get your group together, Book Now and be part of an awesome night of pro-wrestling for AWF Pro-Wrestling Reset!

What: AWF Pro-Wrestling Reset When: Friday 12 March, 2021 7:00pm Doors, 7:30pm Belltime Where: Blacktown Bowman Hall: 35 Campbell St, Blacktown, NSW Tickets LIMITED!: VIP Ringside: $40, First Release General: $30 Pre-Book at www.awfwrestling.com.au Pre-Booking Essential and Covid Safe check in on entry. All Ages Event - Merchandise, Food and Beverages On Sale on the Night Event Updates at the Discussion Section of the AWF ProWrestling Reset Facebook event and the AWF Website at www. awfwrestling.com.au AWF: Australia’s Destination for Pro-Wrestling #awfreset #awfblacktown #awfwrestling #awfnsw #AWF #thisisawfwrestling #australianprowrestling #aussiewrestling #prowrestling #prowrestlers

Finals Beckon for Major Pennant Clubs By Noel Rowsell

here were mixed results for local teams in the 2nd-last round of Men’s Major Pennant Golf last Sunday. In Division 1, newly-promoted Twin Creeks Golf & CC fell 6.5-0.5 to reigning champions St Michaels, which ends their pursuit of a playoff berth. It was a tough initiation for Twin Creeks, having to play the 2020 champions St Michaels in their Section, especially with St Michaels having won the Division 1 title 5 times in the past 10 years and 11 times since 1930. Also newly-promoted Penrith GC fell 4-3 to Monash and must defeat Monash at Penrith this Sunday, in an attempt to avoid the Relegation playoffs. Both Twin Creeks and Penrith will be hoping to draw strong crowds to

Chris Lawler (Penrith) and Chris McMillan (Twin Creeks) had a win and a draw respectively for their teams on the weekend. File photos by Noel Rowsell

their respective home courses this Sunday to inspire their teams to victory. In Division 2, Stonecutters Ridge GC’s 5-2 win over Glenmore Heritage Valley GC guarantees them the Section title and a playoff berth, irrespective of the result in the final round.

In Division 3, Dunheved GC grabbed a strong 4.5-2.5 home win over Wakehurst but will need to beat them again this Sunday, at Wakehurst, to secure the Section title and a place in the playoffs. Also in Division 3, Richmond GC defeated Antill Park GC 6.5-0.5 and

Springwood CC defeated Woolooware GC 6-1. Division 4 saw Leonay GC win 5-2 over Cammeray GC to remain at the top of Section 4 but they must defeat Cammeray in the City this Sunday to have a chance at securing the Section title and a place in the playoffs. Also in Division 4, Windsor lost 5-2 to Campbelltown GC and now must win this Sunday to avoid the Relegation playoffs. In Division 5, Wallacia Country Club won 5-2 over Barnwell Park but need to defeat them again this Sunday to capture the Section title and a playoff berth. In the Ladies Major Pennant competition, Penrith GC lost 3-2 to Lynwood CC in Division 2 and will finish in 2nd spot in their Section. In Division 1, Stonecutters Ridge GC lost 4.5-0.5 to The Australian GC and will play in the Relegation playoffs.

Western News 5 March 2021 Issue 130

Live pro-wrestling returns to Blacktown

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 5 March 2021

Pearce Reserve – new cricket pavilions opened

(L-R) Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths, Kings Langley Cricket Club President Paul Giumelli, Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland MP, Member for Seven Hills Mark Taylor MP and Councillor Kevin Gillies.

ne of the most attractive cricket grounds in Western Sydney has now got the amenities and club rooms to match, with the opening of pavilions adjoining the oval at Pearce Reserve, Kings Langley. Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, joined the Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP and the Member for Seven Hills, Mark Taylor MP, along with cricket officials and supporters at the official opening of the pavilions.

The $1.5 million project involved the construction of two new pavilions housing change rooms, store rooms, toilets, club rooms and a canteen. The project also incorporated upgraded spectator facilities, with raised and covered terraces, and tiered seating fronting the cricket oval. Blacktown City Council contributed more than $1.1 million towards the project with the NSW Government and NSW ICC T20 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund providing $100,000.

Kings Langley Cricket Club raised a further $75,000 towards the project. Mayor Bleasdale said; “The opening of the new pavilions is not only a landmark day for the Kings Langley Cricket Club, but also for the whole surrounding community. “The opening of the pavilions is the culmination of more than 15-years planning and construction which now sees Pearce Reserve include upgraded tennis courts, basketball courts, half courts, playgrounds, walking tracks and of course the picturesque cricket ground and training facilities. “I pay tribute to Greg Monaghan and all the members of the Pearce Reserve Park Committee who have worked closely with Council over the years to make Pearce Reserve one of the premier community sport and family

recreation areas in Western Sydney” Greg Monaghan said; “This has been a terrific long-term community program involving grant funding from the NSW and Federal governments, great support from our local MPs and massive financial, planning and construction assistance from Blacktown City Council. “But it has been members of the community and the Kings Langley Cricket Club that has really made this project happen with their continual support and enthusiasm.” Club President Paul Giumelli said; “Our club is one of the biggest district cricket clubs in Western Sydney, these new amenities will help us maintain high levels of success, provide the facilities our players deserve and attract new players.

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