Western News 8 December 2023 by Nepean News

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1800RESPECT garbage truck to spread awareness for support services. See page 3 for full story.

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

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Doonie finally gets a lift!

ECADES after the #GetDoonieALift campaign began, a major accessibility upgrade at Doonside Station has finally opened to the public. The lift was opened by Transport Minister Jo Haylen, Blacktown MP Stephen Bali and members of the community who campaigned to have lifts installed at the 143 year old station. The upgrade includes four new lifts connecting the station entrances to the existing footbridge and station platforms, and continuous canopy cover on both platforms. New stairs have been installed on Platforms 3 and 4 with upgrades to existing ramps, footbridges and stairs on Platforms 1 and 2, while the accessible pathways throughout the station precinct have been re-graded. There is also a family-accessible toilet, and new accessible parking spaces on Cross Street and School Parade. Bicycle hoops have been installed next to the Doonside Road and Cross Street station entrances and crucial safety enhancements have been made to CCTV and lighting. At the main entrance of Doonside Station on Cross Street, a new artwork showcases the cultural connection to the land on which Doonside Station sits - the Ancestral lands of the Wawarrawarri people of the Dharug Nation, also known as the Cockatoo People The NSW Government has funded this upgrade under the Transport Access Program, an initiative to provide a better experience for public transport passengers by delivering

accessible, modern, secure, and integrated infrastructure across the state. “It’s exciting to see the brand new infrastructure and 143 years of heritage come together at Doonside Station after a long community campaign,” said Transport Minister Jo Haylen. “This upgrade will boost passenger safety and convenience, while acknowledging the Dharug people with a beautiful mural at the main entrance to Doonside Station on Cross Street. “We’ve funded these upgrades to make sure our train stations meet the needs of passengers today and into the future, and promote sustainable and healthy modes of transport. “I want to thank the more than 400 workers who worked on upgrading the station for doing a wonderful job in

making it safer and more accessible, while honouring the area’s rich cultural heritage.” “The Transport Access Program is transforming stations across our state, ensuring everyone has safe, accessible access to our train stations. “The transformation of Doonside will ensure that commuters with disabilities, parents and passengers with luggage or bikes are able to make the most of our public transport network. “We’re expanding the benefits of this important program by investing an additional $300 million, to build even more accessible stations across the state.” “Blacktown LGA is home to the largest urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Australia,”

said Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali. “The Aboriginal artwork showcases the cultural connection to the land on which Doonside Station sits – the ancestral lands of the Wawarrawarri people of the Dharug Nation, also known as the Cockatoo People. “I want to thank the Doonside community for their strong advocacy and long-term campaign to achieve the upgrades at Doonside station. I thank your patience and understanding of all involved and we can celebrate together the fantastic upgrades, which I know we will enjoy for many years to come. “I know everybody involved in this project takes a lot of pride in their contribution and I am so appreciative of their fine work.”

Western NEWS

COVER STORY 3

800RESPECT – Australia’s national domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling and support service – has partnered with Blacktown City Council in NSW, in an innovative initiative where garbage trucks are used to promote social change. At the launch in Blacktown recently, a Council garbage truck wrapped with the message, ‘Violence and Abuse is never ok. 1800RESPECT can help’, was unveiled as part of the Council’s community support services awareness initiative. Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth praised the creative, yet important, campaign by Blacktown City Council. “The Government values its close collaboration with state, territory and local governments to reach people affected by family, domestic, and sexual violence in all corners of the community, no matter where they live,” Minister Rishworth said. “All levels of government must take action to end violence against women and children, and support those who are recovering and healing. “Through this campaign, Blacktown City Council is showing their dedication to raising awareness for family, domestic, and sexual violence support services and this

Deputy Mayor of Blacktown City Chris Quilkey, Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Justine Elliot, Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and representatives from 1800Respect, Telstra and Blacktown Women’s and Girls Health Centre.

message can be seen in suburban homes all across the council when the garbage truck drives by.” NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research reports show that in 2020 and 2021, Blacktown reported the highest number of incidents of domestic violence assaults in NSW. Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Justine Elliot, emphasised the importance of reaching people through crossgovernmental collaboration. “As Australia works to achieve our goal of ending gender-based violence in one generation, the Government must collaborate at all levels for new

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and fresh ideas to spread awareness,” Assistant Minister Elliot said. “Using a garbage truck is a simple way to promote critical support services that are nationally available to help people, including 1800RESPECT. “These trucks are at the doorstep of every household, at least once a week, and promote support services in a highly visible and accessible way.” Mayor of Blacktown City Tony Bleasdale OAM said the Council’s vehicles for social change program doubled as an important communication channel with local residents.

“It is my hope that the 1800RESPECT truck will be part of the process that inspires conversation and transformation. We want to help make our City a much safer place for our women and our children,” Mr Bleasdale said. “There is so much work still to be done in putting an end to domestic violence. The 1800RESPECT wrapping on the Council garbage truck is a unique way of communicating this vital message to our residents and visitors in Blacktown City.” The Australian Government has invested $2.3 billion across the 202223 and 2023-24 Budgets towards implementing the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032. Other organisations involved in Blacktown City Council’s garbage truck initiative include MensLine, Lifeline, Kids Helpline, QLife, and Dementia Australia. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family, domestic, or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au MensLine Australia Services are available if you are concerned about your wellbeing relationships, and behaviour on 1300 789 978 or by visiting www.mensline.org.au.

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

1800RESPECT garbage truck to spread awareness for support services

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Western NEWS 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

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(L to R) my son Kurtis Martin, Heather from Zonta, myself and my daughter in law Brooke.

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N Tuesday night, the Zonta Club of Nepean Valley hosted their Christmas party and awards night at Panthers. Among the inspirational award recipients, I was thrilled to be named myself, as the 2023 Woman of Initiative. Thank you, Zonta, for this incredible honour. I am very humbled that you would think of me for this award. I never thought I would receive something like this. I’m just so happy that through Nepean and Western News, I am in a position that has allowed me to showcase the incredible work that you all do. Thank you again for this meaningful acknowledgment.

With Clr Robin Cook, Penrith MP Karen McKeown and Mayor Todd Carney.

Honoured to be featured in the same space as these incredible women!

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NEWS 5 Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Santa riding on the Zig Zag Railway. Photo courtesy of Logan Spicer

Santa heading to Zig Zag Railway

ANTA Claus is returning to the historic Zig Zag Railway for the first time in more than a decade. On Sunday, December 17th, Santa will be inspecting the iconic locomotive on an early Christmas visit, to meet with children ahead of his busiest day of the year. Santa will arrive at Clarence Station, in Lithgow, to board the steam locomotive and ride through tunnels and across viaducts from 10:30am, before leaving for the North Pole to

prepare for his deliveries around the world. Visitors will ride Zig Zag with Santa, receive a small gift and can snap an iconic annual picture at the heritage site. Families and rail enthusiasts will also be able to round out 2023 on the rails, with Zig Zag to operate on News Year’s Eve. Tickets won’t last, with Zig Zag selling out every weekend since it reopened in April this year.

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Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

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Western Sydney Youth Expo provides inspiration, opportunities

UKRANIAN teenage girl forced by Russian bombing to flee her home on foot in freezing conditions, a former Taekwondo national champion and activist rushed out of Afghanistan due to threats from the Taliban, and an award-winning Year 12 student whose life was “shaped by the shadows of war” in Syria were three young speakers helping inspire and empower other migrant and refugee youths at the Youth Employment Expo in Fairfield last week. Despite the harrowing circumstances of their journeys to Australia and the challenges of moving to a new country, Nika Kovalenko, Roman Abasy and George Alkhoury said they chose to focus on the positives of their new lives, to embrace opportunities and to follow their dreams. Speaking to more than 70 fellow youths from a range of backgrounds and circumstances, they encouraged their audience to learn English, connect with others, view challenges as opportunities, and stay focused on their unique goals. George, who has just completed his HSC and been accepted into Western Sydney University (WSU) to study architectural engineering, said he felt like a stranger when he arrived in Australia in 2018, with the initial days “marked by language barriers, cultural adjustments, and the unfamiliar Australian way of life”. “It was hard to fit in and be accepted for who I am,” he said. “I had to learn fast and become resilient and adaptable. I faced moments of self-doubt. But I chose to view these challenges as an opportunity for growth. I knew if I could survive war in my homeland, I can overcome any challenges. “With the help of many people who were like mentors to me, these challenges became less overwhelming over time, and building relationships with others really helped.” George became a dedicated member of his school council and, through community engagement, mentorship and volunteering, has won a number of community awards, including the Fairfield City Mayor’s Youth Achievement Award in 2022 and 2023.

Nika, Roman and George helped inspire other migrant and refugee youths with their personal settlement stories.

Likewise, as a schoolgirl, Nika threw herself into volunteer work in Australia, becoming an integral member of the Ukranian community in Sydney, mentoring, teaching, and organising events and performing for a number of organisations, while designing weekly programs for community radio. Roman said in the early days of his settlement he took whatever opportunities were available to him, including work that he didn’t enjoy. But he never lost sight of his passion for sport, and he is now living his dream, working as a Sports Coordinator at Reclink Australia, offering free sports and recreational activities to vulnerable communities. The Youth Employment Expo – cohosted by Navitas Skilled Futures (NSF), Settlement Services International (SSI) and STARRTS (NSW Service for the Treatment and

Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors) – gave South West Sydney youths an opportunity to network and connect with each other, attend practical workshops for employability skill development, have fun at musical and movement health sessions, enjoy a healthy catered lunch and engage with relevant services, education providers and charities about future work and study options. Those represented included WSU, TAFE, Youth Linkers, Services Australia (Centrelink), Australian Retailers Association, White Box/Civik, Vinnies and Green Connect. There was bilingual support for all languages and volunteer students from NSF Liverpool. NSF Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Genevieve Lewis, said the expo was a pilot that would hopefully be repeated, depending on feedback from attendees, but it “appeared overwhelmingly positive”.

“The purpose of the day was to try to connect migrants and refugees aged 17 to 28 with opportunities for education and employment pathways, and to be inspired by each other,” she said. “All the panelists, workshops, and sessions were youth-led and youthfocused, dynamic and engaging, to really help young people get a taste of what they can do, and to realise there’s actually a lot of opportunities out there for them, and they can fulfil their dreams in Australia.” Genevieve said one of the key messages for attendees was not to feel rushed into decisions about their futures. “They are young and we want them to realise that the first thing they choose may not be what they’re going to be doing in five or even ten years’ time; that there are a lot of different options for them in terms of studying, part-time or full-time work, and university,” she said. “There were many organisations at the expo that we were able to connect the youths with, and who could talk to them about what they might do, short-term, mid-term, or long-term. So it was all about having that twoway engagement, asking them what sorts of goals and dreams they have, and as the inspirational youth speakers said, there are going to be challenges, but to see each challenge as an opportunity for growth. We want them to feel that there is hope and there are opportunities and choices. Yes, there’s going to be difficulties, but there are people to support them through those challenges and to help them live their best lives.”

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NEWS 9

LACKTOWN City Centre, along with local Police Stations have been “Knit Bombed” as part of an annual campaign to raise awareness of domestic and family violence in Blacktown City. More than 72 trees and 52 poles have been wrapped in hundreds of knitted and crocheted squares and flowers in the Blacktown City Council Knit Bomb Project - part of the United Nations Women’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Speaking at the Project launch, Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said: “The Knit Bomb Project is a vital part of Council’s commitment to raise awareness of the tragic impact that domestic violence has on our community.” “The number of domestic violence assaults across New South Wales has increased by nearly 9 per cent over the past 2 years. Sadly, women and children in Blacktown City continue to suffer at the hands of family members or former partners, with more than 2,000 incidents of domestic violence reported in the last 12-months.” “We are here today to say NO to domestic and family violence. Blacktown City Council is committed to working with our local police, emergency services and community organisations to put an end to this

Knit Bomb participants at the Yarn In, community knitters dedicating hours of their time creating the squares.

violence.” Mayor Bleasdale said. The fifth annual Knit Bomb Project, will see hundreds of knitted squares also adorning key landmarks in Mount Druitt and Lalor Park over the coming weeks. This year, Council is delighted to feature a metal mesh sculpture created by inmates at Parklea Correctional Centre depicting two parents, two children and a single woman. The sculptures have been “Knit Bombed” with colourful knitted squares, hearts and flowers. Parklea Correctional Centre

Governor Wayne Taylor said staff and inmates were delighted to be part to of this important community partnership and social awareness campaign. “We value our partnerships with Blacktown City Council and its Mayor Tony Bleasdale has been a great supporter of our inmates and the work we do to provide education and skills to assist in their rehabilitation.” “This Project also provides inmates with an opportunity to give back to the community and they should all feel very proud,” Mr Taylor said. The Knit Bomb Project is

spearheaded by Council’s Women’s Advisory Committee, with the Blacktown Library Knitting Group and more than 50 community knitters dedicating hours of their time creating the squares either at home or in organised “yarn ins”. Chairperson of the Women’s Advisory Committee Councillor Julie Griffiths AM said: “The Knit Bomb Project is part of our Council’s longstanding commitment in condemning domestic and family violence in Blacktown City, which unfortunately has the one of the highest incidences of reported domestic assault in NSW.” This year the Knit Bomb Project also features a striking display of artwork produced by inmates from the Dillwynia Correctional Centre, as well as a 1.5-metre-high ‘Knit Bombed’ butterfly created by the Blacktown Library Knitting Group. Members of the public are invited to tie a ribbon on the sculptures in the Village Green that binds them to a pledge to be an advocate for gender equity in our community and eliminate violence against women and girls. The global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence began on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on Human Rights Day on 10 December.

Parklea inmates create safe family for DV campaign

NMATES at Parklea Correctional Centre have again put their trade skills to good use, creating a family out of metal mesh to help raise awareness and promote discussion about domestic violence. The concept, developed in partnership with Blacktown City Council as part of its annual Knit Bomb Project, uses visually vibrant statements to say “no” to family and domestic violence. In previous years the inmates have constructed a tea pot and two cups and saucers to symbolise having a cuppa to start a conversation, as well as a tiny home from timber to represent a safe house. This year the inmates created life-sized sculptures out of metal that resemble two parents and two children. Correctional officers supervised six inmates who work in the prison’s metal shop to form the shapes by welding strips of metal together to create the sculptures, which measure 1.5 metres by 1.2 metres and 1.2m by 3m. The metal family was then “knit bombed” by the talented members of the Blacktown Library Knitting Group, overseen by Blacktown City Council’s Women’s Advisory Committee, who had knitted or crocheted squares in various colours and sizes and sewn them together. The sculptures will be on display at

the Village Green, next to Blacktown City Council Chambers, until midDecember. Other items, such as trees, light poles, posts, and benches around the area, have also been “knit bombed” to mark 16 days of activism against violence in November. Governor Wayne Taylor said staff and inmates were delighted that the council had again invited them to be part of this important community partnership and social awareness campaign. “We are proud to have been involved in a number of charitable projects with Blacktown City Council over the years. These include donating wooden toys and Indigenous artwork made by inmates to council-run childcare centres, as well as seedlings for the children to grow their own vegetables,” Mr Taylor said. “Our giant tea pot and teacups and wooden safe house received fantastic feedback and provided eye-catching conversation starters about domestic violence, while providing meaningful work for our inmates. “We value our partnerships with Blacktown City Council and its Mayor Tony Bleasdale has been a great supporter of our inmates and the work we do to provide education and skills to assist in their rehabilitation. “Our officers who train the inmates in the cabinet shop and metal shop have produced impressive and

L-R: Parklea Operational Manager Michael Pugsley, Parklea Governor Wayne Taylor, Mayor Tony Bleasdale and Councillor Julie Griffiths.

professional designs each year that are positive, visual symbols of ways we can overcome domestic violence. “It also provides inmates with an opportunity to give back to the community and they should all feel very proud.” Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said council was proud to continue an ongoing partnership with Parklea in making a colourful and powerful public statement against domestic and family violence. “Our hope is that we can improve the lives of women and girls in Western Sydney. We want to build

the conversation around this serious issue, and transform our city into a much safer place for women and our children,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “Sadly, in Blacktown City, women and children continue to suffer at the hands of family members or current or former partners, and the Knit Bomb Project is part of council’s commitment in raising awareness of this scourge on our community. “We were always delighted to have the support of Parklea inmates for the Knit Bomb Project, and I am delighted by the hard work and talent that goes into creating the pieces for display each year.”

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Blacktown City Council “Knit Bombs” domestic violence

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

NEWS

Western NEWS

Could a video game stamp out vaping? Western Sydney students share ideas at first Health Hackathon

TUDENTS from western Sydney recently spent two days immersed in a ‘Health Hackathon’ event at Westmead Hospital, developing campaigns to address key health issues and presenting these ideas to industry leaders. Western Sydney Local Health District’s (WSLHD) Prevention Education and Research Unit (PERU), in collaboration with the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program, the NSW Department of Education, and the NSW Ministry of Health, co-hosted the Health Hackathon at Westmead Hospital. The first joint project between NSW Health and Education departments, the event was innovative way to engage western Sydney’s young people in career opportunities, pathways, skill building while focusing on improving health. “We have engaged students to be able to come up with a campaign that addresses a health issue that matters to them in their school community.” Kym Rizzo Liu, Project Manager Prevention Education Research Unit (PERU) “This is an example of how, when kids lead things by themselves, they can come up with amazing ideas. “They feel empowered and then really want to make a difference in our schools.” Over two dozen students participated in the event, coming to Westmead Hospital from four local high

schools, including Colyton, Erskine Park, Model Farms, and Windsor High Schools. Students presented a range of ideas, such as a Fortnite based game which highlighted the negative effects vaping has on the character’s health and performance, as well as an interactive anime game, aimed at highlighting mental health struggles. The winners, a team from Model Farms High School, took inspiration from trending TikToks, creating a video with an anti-vape message, that

showed a bird’s-eye view of students dancing, walking away when one of them started to smoke a vape. “As students, we know what other students want to know,” one Model Farms High School student, and member of the winning team, said. You can read more about the event at https://thepulse.org.au/2023/11/15/futurehealth-innovators-western-sydney-studentstake-centre-stage-at-westmead-hospital-healthhackathon/

Macca’s opens a new restaurant in Stanhope Gardens, creating over 125 jobs McDonald’s Australia has opened a new restaurant in Stanhope Gardens (Shops 30 and 31, Stanhope Village Shopping Centre, 2 Sentry Drive, Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768), injecting over $2.1 million into the local economy and creating over 125 jobs across crew, barista, management and maintenance. This is part of McDonald’s national commitment to open 100 new restaurants and remodel half of its existing restaurants by the end of 2025, investing more than $1 billion into the economy and creating over 40,000 new jobs for Aussies. McDonald’s Stanhope Gardens is owned and operated by Licensee, Mark Halford, who joined McDonald’s as a Crew Member over 46 years ago and now employs over 1,100 members of the community across eight restaurants in the Blacktown, Hornsby Shire and The Hills Shire regions – Dural, Kellyville, Kellyville North,

Norwest Marketown, Norwest II, Rouse Hill, Rouse Hill Town Centre and Stanhope Gardens. Mr Halford said, “We are excited to open our doors on McDonald’s Stanhope Gardens and provide jobs, training and development opportunities for the local community. “The new restaurant will provide customers with a friendly and convenient place to access food and drinks, whether they’re popping in for a quick coffee or staying for lunch. “As a local business, we are proud to support local charities and groups that are important to our customers and people, including The Hills Grammar School Australian Business Week and Hills United Football Club. “We look forward to serving up our great tasting, great quality menu and providing feel good moments for our customers.” The new restaurant is fitted with modern décor

and features a dedicated partner delivery room and McCafe for customers to enjoy. As a key employer in the region, Mr Halford is committed to providing outstanding training and development opportunities for all employees. “McDonald’s invests millions of dollars into training and development initiatives each year, offering nationally recognised certifications in the food and retail sectors. “We are passionate about supporting the professional development of our people and providing workplace skills applicable to any career,” said Mr Halford. McDonald’s is currently hiring a variety of crew, barista, management and maintenance roles in restaurants across Blacktown. For more information or to apply for a role, please go to https://careers.mcdonalds.com.au

Half a million dollars to support Mount Druitt sports

OUNT DRUITT is one of several electorates the NSW Government is targeting through a program that installs life-saving defibrillators at sports facilities. The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program provides grants up to $3,000 to eligible sporting organisations towards the purchase of automated external defibrillators. The Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs in Mount Druitt. Applications close 24 February 2024, at 1:00PM. For further information on the Local Sports Defibrillator Program, visit: www.sport.nsw. gov.au/grants/local-sport-defibrillator-grantprogram

Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla said: “With more and more people of all ages participating in sport and active recreation across Mount Druitt it’s vital our local sporting organisations are equipped to respond to lifethreating emergencies. “The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program supports sports to install this equipment at local sports facilities, enabling them to respond in the worst-case scenario.” Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said: “Sport is a great leveller, and the NSW Government wants to ensure that people participating in sport in all areas of the State have access to this life-saving equipment. “The first few minutes following a cardiac arrest

are critical and access to a defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death. “This program ensures clubs are equipped to respond to these life-threatening emergencies.” Professor Jamie Vandenberg, Co-deputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, said: “Sudden cardiac death is rare, but it can strike anyone at any time, and when it does every minute counts. “If you have a sudden cardiac arrest outside of hospital you only have a one in 10 chance of survival. “Defibrillators save lives; we need more across NSW and in as many sporting clubs as possible. “We also need to ensure that players across all sporting codes know how to use a defibrillator to give their teammates the best chance of survival.”

Western NEWS

ENTERTAINMENT

LACKTOWN Arts and Blacktown City Council are presenting 2 major projects as part of the Sydney Festival 2024: Talking Posters: Garage Graphix 1981 - 1998 and Hive Festival, in partnership with the Art Gallery of New South Wales and in association with theatre maker and creative producer Claudia Chidiac. Touring exhibition Talking Posters: Garage Graphix 1981 – 1998 will be on display at Pier 2/3, Walsh Bay Precinct with a selection of screen-printed artworks, textiles and calendars alongside materials from the renowned ‘Garage’ in Mt Druitt in western Sydney. Curated by Nadia Odlum, and first presented at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre in 2022, Talking Posters reveals the role of artistic collaboration in giving voice to community concerns, expressed through the unique styles and typography from a pre-digital era of poster-making. The exhibition will be on display from 8 to 28 January 2024. Hive Festival is a celebration for children and families presented over 2 weekends at the Art Gallery of New South Wales on 13 and 14 January 2024 and at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre on 19 and 20 January 2024 between 10 am and 5 pm. Extended hours apply on Saturday 20 January. Visit The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre on the second weekend for 2 fun-filled days of hands-on art making, music, performance, and play. Collaborate on a gigantic cardboard-sculpture with designer and architect Noa Haim (Collective Paper Aesthetics), and get involved in the following programs and performances: • Share stories and learn a thing or 2 with First Nations Elders Uncle Wes Marne, Uncle Danny Eastwood and Uncle John Farrington. • Be inspired by our young artists

Noa Haim of Collective Paper Aesthetics HEART-board pyramid 2016, at 798 International Children’s Art Festival in Beijing. Photo by Wei Guo, and Garage Graphix: Making Art in Mt Druitt, 1986 Calendar page, 1986, screenprint on paper. Courtesy the artists.

with the 2024 Young Artist Prize exhibition and ceremony, and be taken on an exclusive ‘kids tour’ of the 2024 Blacktown City Art Prize exhibition. • Listen to Trains by The Kids, an app-based audio ‘train journey’ revealing exciting sounds and stories from several ‘stops’ between St James station and Blacktown station by Claudia Chidiac. Available from 13 to 20 January, Trains by The Kids is best enjoyed travelling between the 2 festival venues. • Join Ngiyampaa and Guringai artist Tarni Eastwood as she shares her passion and knowledge of traditional and contemporary weaving techniques with hand-dyed raffia from Nula Weaving. • Join western Sydney’s first disability-led artist collective We Are Studios for a range of accessible workshops and activities. • Go on musical adventure with children’s singer Emily Who and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. • Dance till you drop with World

Rhythms Unleashed by dancer and choreographer Lucky Lartey; a mesmerizing and culturally-rich performance that brings together vibrant rhythms and percussion traditions from across the globe. • Get excited for a live music program presented by Vyva Entertainment, featuring children’s favourites Zindzi (Play School) and the Zillionaires and more soon to be announced. The full 2-day program will be live closer to the event. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the participation by Blacktown Arts in the Sydney Festival is a wonderful opportunity for the talent in Blacktown City. “There are plenty of reasons for this Sydney Festival to feature Blacktown. We present the best of western Sydney - our arts scene is influenced by the many diverse communities which make Blacktown their home.” “Garage Graphix was a leader in community arts practice, based right here in Blacktown City, and its

legacy lives on today. The Garage, through dozens of important posters, spoke to the stories and concerns of local people. They really were crucial in shaping the identity of the western Sydney community,” Mayor Bleasdale said. Entry to both Talking Posters: Garage Graphix 1981 – 1998 and Hive Festival is free and suitable for all ages. For further information, see Sydney Festival and Blacktown Arts websites. Key information: Talking Posters: Garage Graphix 1981 – 1998 10 am to 9 pm, 8 to 28 January 2024 Poster House (The Thirsty Mile) Pier 2/3, Walsh Bay Precinct 15 Hickson Road, Dawes Point Hive Festival 9 am to 5 pm, 13 to 14 January 2024 Art Gallery of New South Wales Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 10 am to 5 pm, 19 January 2024 10 am to 8 pm, 20 January 2024 The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre 78 Flushcombe Rd, Blacktown

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Baffle (8) 5. Plot (6) 9. Consecrated (8) 10. Overrun (6) 12. Sickened (9) 13. Cowboy movie (5) 14. A swinging barrier to a room (4) 16. The end of a journey (7) 19. Terrified (7) 21. Assist (4) 24. Overweight (5) 25. Pure (9) 27. Welcome (6)

28. Dreadful (8) 29. Cerumen (6) 30. Wristband (8)

DOWN 1. Toward the rear (6) 2. Butternut (6) 3. Not tight (5) 4. Voter (7) 6. A wide hallway in a building (9) 7. Not compulsory (8) 8. Completely (8) 11. Inspiration (4) 15. Musical group (9)

solution 24/11/23

17. Antonym (8) 18. Undertaking (8) 20. Not our (4) 21. Not professional (7) 22. Emblem (6) 23. Second Coming (6) 26. The words of a song (5)

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Two major Western Sydney projects presented by Blacktown Arts in Sydney Festival 2024

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

WESTERN HISTORY

Western NEWS

Seven Hills Shopping Centre: one stop shopping

The birth of one stop shopping introduced a new level of consumerism to Australia in the 1960s. Primarily, the new concept emerged as a consequence of changing urban patterns whereby suburbs, remote from main centres, expanded to accommodate Australia’s growing population. Often the centres filled a need for shopping facilities and services not otherwise addressed, however, the one stop nature of the cluster precincts sometimes came at the expense of existing businesses. Seven Hills experienced such a period when a very modern shopping centre opened adjacent to the railway line at Seven Hills, in November 1960 to cope with the upsurge in population caused by Housing Commission development during the 1940s and 1950s. There is no doubt that the area benefitted from increased employment opportunities even though the one-stop centre may have disadvantaged existing business.

 Aerial view

N 1959 the Dumas Investment Company purchased the Seven Hills property once owned by Claude William Davis. Davis, a one-time fruit grower, operated a general and produce store on the land from approximately 1919, until his death, in 1959.1 Gordon Richard Dumas was the managing director of Dumas Investment Company that had plans to erect several more of the innovative shopping precincts at west Cabramatta and Bass Hill. 2 However, newspapers of that era indicate the cluster concept was controversial especially with proprietors of existing businesses in Cabramatta who feared loss of trade and financial ruin. Town planning legislation, politics and local outrage eventually triggered a Local Government Inquiry on the proposed centre proposal for a hotel, thirty shops, a good size supermarket and parking provision for 886 cars. The offer (by Dumas) to include a baby health centre and library in the Cabramatta development did not sway the Inquiry. Furthermore, a statement by Mr Dumas to the effect that shoppers would benefit from the clustered nature of the shops, fell on deaf ears. The Minister for Local Government (Mr. P.D. Hill) rejected the proposal.3 In contrast, it seems that the Seven Hills project was built with a minimum of fuss perhaps because the new centre offered a whole new level of retail sophistication as well as better employment opportunities for residents. However, a Woolworths advertisement illustrated that in the 1960s, openings for women were still limited. Woolworths advertised for an experienced mercery ‘man’ to take charge in its ‘magnificent new double-storey branch’ in Seven Hills Regional Shopping Centre. The ‘right man’ was guaranteed a good salary as well as ‘unequalled security’ and ‘golden opportunities’ with Group assurance.4 On the day Woolworths began recruiting staff, a line of hopeful residents (mostly women) stretched from the centre across to Artillery Crescent on the north side of the railway line. The open concept designed by Dutch-born architect, Franz Johann Zipfinger, was built on fourteen acres of land located on the south side of Seven Hills. Dumas used Zipfinger to design shopping centres at Berala and Ryde.5 The architect stated his designs were based on successful American plans modified to suit conditions in Australia.6 He endorsed

 Woolworths grocery store opposite a row of smaller shops

the notion that the busy housewife of the 1960s wanted to do her shopping quickly and conveniently within a single area rather than walk up and down the street.7 The cost of the Seven Hills project was £1.5 million and included a Woolworth’s grocery shop and a separate double-storey variety store, several smaller shops, a residential hotel and enough parking spaces for 1,200 cars. Reid Murray (NSW) Pty Ltd constructed the complex while G.G. Cleary Pty Ltd built the hotel with a public bar, which, at the time, was the second largest in Australia. The two-storey Woolworths variety store was less than successful and the Reid Murray group faced financial collapse in the mid-1960s. Continued next issue..... Supplied by Pamela Smith from Blacktown & District Historical Society

Jack Brook, The Seven Hills, A Village Divided, A Suburb United, Self-published, 2004, p. 64. 2 Biz, various dates. 3 Biz, 21.6.1961, p. 1. 4 Cumberland Argus, 12.10.1960, p. 19. 5 Biz, Close voting favours Cabramatta west centre, 7.9.1960. 6 Ibid. 7 Ibid. 1

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Western NEWS

REAL ESTATE 13

ALEX SONCINI

- the hidden danger potentially stopping you from owning your own home

ANY consumers are unaware of the negative impact that a buy now pay later service can have on their credit score and potential home loan applications and I’m seeing more consumers applying for a home loan having Buy Now Pay Later providers listed on the credit file. Since 2020, the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) sector in Australia has captivated many consumers especially the younger demographic by offering the allure of instant gratification. The convenience of quick finance has become a coveted global commodity, aligning itself with the likes of Uber, online calendars, and sleep tracking alarms. Prominent players in the BNPL arena, such as AfterPay and Zip Pay, have surged in popularity, flooding the market with their services. The Australia Buy Now Pay Later Market Report 2023, estimates that BNPL Payments are Expected to Grow to reach $14.241 Billion in 2023. Driven by a simple proposition whereby the Buy Now Pay Later provider pays the merchant on behalf of the customer, allowing the customer to obtain the goods or receive a service immediately while subsequently paying off the debt generally through instalments, Buy Now Pay Later presents a tempting offering. But as the sector’s breakneck growth continues, mortgage professionals are warning users, particularly in the younger demographic, to be cautious of overdoing it as this could risk effecting their chances of securing a home loan further down the track.

While these services can be helpful in a pinch, using them frequently doesn’t look good to a lender – it tells them you can’t budget your money well, which can understandably make you seem like a risky loan applicant. What many people don’t realise is that a bank assesses your borrowing power using your credit report and current debt – and they use your credit card or Afterpay limit, not your current balance. Essentially, they’re calculating your ability to repay a loan based on what your regular outgoings would be if these cards and accounts were maxed out. That can seriously affect how much you can borrow. The National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009 says lenders have to take steps to make sure borrowers can afford to repay. Afterpay and the like are exempt from such legislation, so there’s no way to tell whether the people paying late fees should or shouldn’t have been loaned the money in the first place. Recently, Australian regulators have been considering regulating BNPL firms like credit card providers as many consumers are facing financial hardship. The last 12 months has seen a surge in the cost of living affecting the consumers’ ability to repay BNPL loans. As we move into the Christmas period a spike in the usage of BNPL loans is expected by cash-constrained consumers. One has to ask, how many people can manage their money this way, there’s probably one per

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cent of people doing that and the rest of them are spending beyond their means. As a result, there may also be a stigma associated with using Buy Now Pay Later schemes rather than paying up-front and in-full and utilising this payment method may potentially send the wrong message to a bank. If a lender sees a ‘buy now pay later’ provider frequently on a client’s bank statements, that can trigger more questions about their spending behaviours and ultimately may mean they choose to decline the application. While the BNPL sector offers immediate rewards, it’s important to appropriately manage your expenses well in advance of applying for a home loan, that way you can show the bank that you can save and afford to service a mortgage when the time comes. I would much prefer to see my clients save for the item and demonstrate those good habits. If you are concerned about your level of expenditure or your ability to secure a home loan, a conversation with your mortgage broker could set you on the right path. Wealthwiz proudly helps many clients each year overcome all the red tape and barriers put in their way and if you need help with a loan or have any questions you can always have a one-on-one discussion. Just give Alex a call on 0419 600 177 and tell us about your situation. The more we learn, the better we can help.

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SPORT GIANTS and Western Sydney University launch sports management course

HE GIANTS and Western Sydney University have embarked on an exciting new initiative, joining forces to launch a new immersive sports management course. Delivered by The College at Western Sydney University, the Diploma in Business (Pathway to Sport Management) will provide students with realworld experience and insights into the dynamic world of sports management. Starting in term one of 2024, the special collaboration between the GIANTS and the University signifies a commitment to fostering the next generation of sports industry leaders by offering a comprehensive educational experience. As part of the course, students will have the opportunity to broaden their career prospects through a range of sport-oriented electives as well as spending regular time at the GIANTS’ headquarters, the VAILO Community Centre in Sydney Olympic Park. Participants will hear from sporting professionals and learn about the behind-the-scenes operations of a professional sporting organisation. With the ability to undertake practical, workready experience with the GIANTS, the diploma will give students the opportunity to gain a foot in the door to the competitive sporting industry. Successful completion of the Diploma is also a pathway into the second year of Western

Sydney University’s Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) program. Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University, Professor Barney Glover AO, said as an anchor institution in Western Sydney, the University is providing world-class education and real-world learning opportunities to its students. “Western Sydney University is proud to expand its partnership with the GIANTS, providing students with an exceptional and immersive educational experience that will develop their knowledge and understanding of the world of sports management,” said Professor Glover. Glenn Campbell, Chief Executive Officer at The College, said as Western Sydney University’s leading pathway provider, The College, provides

students with a direct route to a university degree. “Not only will the diploma provide those interested in a career in sports management an exclusive behind-the-scenes look and a pathway into a rewarding career in the sports industry, it’s a terrific way to gain real-world practical experience with a professional sports club, while gaining a high-quality qualification and pathway to further studies,” said Mr Campbell. GIANTS Chief Executive Officer David Matthews said providing educational opportunities to the Western Sydney community is embedded in the club’s culture. “Since the inception of the GIANTS, we’ve always been a club that focuses on enriching the lives of the Western Sydney community and we’re delighted to continue our partnership with Western Sydney University to bring to life this fantastic educational opportunity,” Mr Matthews said. “With the state-of-the-art teaching that the University provides, along with the unique access that we’ll provide to our people and facilities, we see this diploma as a fantastic opportunity to get inside the inner sanctum of a professional sporting organisation while also gaining invaluable knowledge for a career in the sports industry.” For more information, or to put forward an expression of interest, which is now open, visit the website. Applications close February 14, 2024.

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Buy Now Pay Later

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Western NEWS

SPORT

Stonecutters Ridge win Golf NSW Metro Junior Pennant BY NOEL ROWSELL

VER the past few months, Stonecutters Ridge GC (SRGC) junior members Savannah Webb, Annoushka Maikap, Marie Claire Domingo, Cooper Ison, Zayne Miencke, Aayush Verma, Sean Sammons and Jack Gillett have all represented the club in the Golf NSW Metropolitan Junior Pennant. Ranging in ages from 12 - 17 years old, these young players have attended weekly training with Ray Costello and Ryan Cadle, both members of SRGC Major Pennant and Eric Apperly Shield squads. “These young golfers (Ray and Ryan) have been instrumental in working with our juniors on their physical and mental approaches to matchplay and the game of golf in general,” said Stephanie Loudon, Marketing & Communication at SRGC.

(L-R) Zayne Miencke ,Cooper Ison, Annoushka Maikap, Marie Claire Domingo, Savannah Webb , Sean Sammons Aayush Verma, Jack Gillett

Matches during the Junior Pennant season were played against Pennant Hills, Castle Hill, Lynwood and North Ryde, with the following results: Pennant Hills at Castle Hill – 4/2 win,

Castle Hill at North Ryde – 4/2 win, Lynwood at Pennant Hills – 3.5/2.5 loss, North Ryde at Lynwood – 4/2 win; semi-final against Cromer GC at Dunheved GC featured a sudden

death playoff win on the 6th extra hole, after halving the six matches at 3-3. In the Final against Cronulla White, which was played at Lakeside Camden GC, the match saw Stonecutters prevail 3-2 to claim the Sydney Metro Junior Pennant for their first title in the competition’s 70-year history. “Our junior golfers have each had impressive wins, as well as hard fought losses, and have been always outstanding ambassadors for our club,” said Stephanie. “It has been a pleasure to work with these young golfers and their families. Their determination, sense of fair play and teamwork are a credit to them, as well as our club, as these are our future Men’s and Women’s Major Pennant players. “We wish them every success in the upcoming State Junior Pennant, where they will face off against three other divisions at Newcastle Golf Club on January 15, 2024.

Darcy Mackay captures 2023 Twin Creeks Cup BY NOEL ROWSELL

Darcy Mackay with the 2023 Twin Creeks Cup. Photo supplied

Action photo from 2023 Major Pennant. Photo by Noel Rowsell

IFTY-FOUR golfers from 37 different clubs teed up at Twin Creeks GC on Saturday 2nd December to contest the 2023 Twin Creeks Cup. With a handicap limit of 4.4 (visitors) and 10.0 (members), it was a highly talented field, with 16-year-old Twin Creeks resident and Golf Club member Darcy Mackay shooting a 3-under par 69 to capture this year’s title, ahead of Luke Arthur (Camden Valley Golf Resort), Matthew Dane (The Lakes GC), Bond Chan (The Lakes GC), John Fearnley (Dunheved GC), Chris McMillan (Twin Creeks GC), Chris Moreton (Twin Creeks GC), Jamie Smith (Monash CC), Stuart Nelson

Lynwood CC) and Jeremy White (Twin Creeks GC). Darcy was fortunate to be in a great group, playing alongside Jamie Smith (8th) and Blake Hodges (11th), which undoubtedly kept him focussed throughout his great round. It has been an excellent year for Darcy, who is also a member at Stonecutters Ridge GC and recently joined The Australian GC, where he plays as his local club. Darcy won the Stonecutters Ridge Club Championship and also finished runner-up at The Australian. He also played Major Pennant for Stonecutters Ridge this year, playing a major role within the team in its success in winning both the Division 2 Pennant Flag and also promotion to Division 1 for 2024.

Local players to contest JNJG Bonville Champions trophy BY NOEL ROWSELL

IFTY elite junior golfers from across Australia are currently on the NSW Mid North Coast, competing in the 2023 Bonville Champions Trophy. The final Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) Major of the 2023 calendar year, the event also doubles as the first JNJG Major of the 2023 - 2024 JNJG Tour Season, with the fifty qualifiers only a small percentage of the near one thousand players who attempted to qualify throughout the season. Modelled on the PGA Tour ‘Tournament of Champions’ Event in Hawaii, the winner of every JNJG Tour Event throughout the season

automatically qualified for the event, with the age division winners of the JNJG Major Events also securing direct qualification to the Champions Trophy. This year, players have qualified to play at Bonville GC from all over NSW, ACT, QLD, VIC and WA, with all qualifiers staying on0site at Bonville and being treated to some of the best hospitality of the year. Play got underway at 7:30am on Tuesday morning December 5, with the 72-hole tournament to be played over three days. Local players competing in the event are Ti Fox (Concord GC), Blake Hodges (New South Wales GC), Ryan Fletcher (Lynwood CC), Darcy Mackay (The Australian GC).

Ti Fox (Richmond) and Blake Hodges (Erskine Park) in action earlier this year. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Western NEWS

SPORT 15

BY BOB TURNER

S a member of the Blacktown Council Sport & Rec committee, we have been working with Super 6 High Performance to resurrect the Blacktown City Games. The result is the ‘2024 Super 6 Blacktown City Youth Games’ in conjunction with Blacktown City Council. The Council were keen to resurrect the Blacktown City Games and Super 6 High Performance has been given the green light by Council to make it happen. The Blacktown Council message is simple: Blacktown Council once again paves the way when it comes to community sport. Partnering with Super 6 High Performance to establish the Super 6 Blacktown City Youth Games, Blacktown will host a unique event that invites all young athletes from all sports across the city of Blacktown. Blacktown Council takes pride as a sporting city and the Youth Games epitomises that endeavour. Making the event more exciting, the Youth Games will be staged at the athletics facility at the World Class ‘Blacktown Exercise Science Technology’ Hub (B.E.S.T), opened on the 19th of November by Cathy Freeman. The Super 6 Youth

(L-R) Rugby League Legend and Super 6 Director - Luke Lewis; Blacktown Councillor Brad Bunting; Gridiron Australia CEO – Wade Kelly, Super 6 Chairman – Bob Turner; Super 6 Founder – Carl Jennings

Games will be a celebration of youth within the Blacktown community, with young athletes and volunteers united in a common cause to deliver an exceptional event that all of Blacktown can be proud of. Sign up now and be a part of the Blacktown/Super 6 Youth Games. Let the Games Begin! The ‘Super 6 Blacktown City Youth Games’ represent Blacktown Council’s next step in promoting young athletes across all sports and the benefit of the BEST facility. The Super 6 Youth Games philosophy developed by founder Carl Jennings is to empower youth through Physical and Mental training as well as build community through Council support and spirit - Website: https://s6hp.com.au/ Former ‘Carl’

believers like Luke Lewis and Petero Civoniceva are part of the Super 6 team. I was so impressed by Carl, and the Super 6 potential Nationally, I have accepted to join the team as Chairman. In my long sports career spanning 47 years, I have not witnessed a similar initiative focused on all sports and all levels of ability. We recently began to seek registrations from all schools and Junior sports in Blacktown. Promotion of the event will be in cooperation with Blacktown Council, all schools in the Blacktown LGA, all Junior sporting groups – in particular the sports affiliated with the Blacktown Sport and Recreation committee, media partners and charity partner BREED Australia. The minimum

target is 1,500 participants for the Preliminary stages. The Games will commence in March 2024 with the finals in May. All registered athletes will be supplied with a Super 6 training shirt and shorts, receive a free preparation booklet that includes a 6 week training program, a Mental Skills “Survive and Thrive” curriculum, and be invited to an orientation session to master the skills required. Participants will also be given ongoing support in relation to physical, mental and emotional development in line with the S6HP philosophy of supporting all young people within the community. One of the Youth Games six disciplines will be the introduction to throw an American Gridiron football for distance and accuracy. This will be highlighted as a talent Identification exercise to find Australia’s Quarterback for the Men & Women’s 2028 Flag Football Olympic Team. For a little extra information on Flag Football go to - ifaf.tv or https://ifaf.tv/ page/6488ace2cdebc107406e07c0 It is 5 on 5 and all about passing and catching a football. Gridiron Australia are proud to be a partner for the Youth Games. Thanks & Super 6 It!

Western News 8 December 2023 Issue 202

Blacktown City Youth Games 2024

2024 SEASON COMMENCES FOR MEN IN FEBRUARY & WOMEN IN MARCH LANDEN STADIUM 5 QUINN AVE, SEVEN HILLS ADULTS $15, UNDER 16 FREE.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND SHOW UP YOUR TOWN, YOUR TEAM.

Western NEWS Friday, 8 December 2023

SPORT

Local Associations win yearly Basketball Awards BY NOEL ROWSELL

WO local Basketball Associations have featured at the 2023 Basketball NSW Awards, with the City of Blacktown winning the Coaching Program of the Year (1,0013,000 members) and Denise Flores winning the Senior Volunteer of the Year award. The Hawkesbury Basketball Association also featured on the night, with Cleo Pickard winning the ‘Aussie Hoops Coach of the Year’ award. Hawkesbury Basketball Association (HBA) President Peter Herrmann said “Cleo is originally from North Carolina and came to Hawkesbury Basketball when her son Will started playing. “She soon took up coaching and has been doing so ever since. When Aussie Hoops was introduced by Basketball Australia (BA), Hawkesbury was one of the first associations to take it on, designed for young kids to learn skills and introduce them to basketball

Christine Nicholls & Cleo Pickard (right) with her award. Photo supplied by Hawkesbury Basketball

Denise Flores with the Coaching Program award. Photo supplied by City of Blacktown Basketball

before they play regular competitions at 10 years old. “We now have sessions of Aussie Hoops on both Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Cleo was its first coach and although we have increased the coaching staff since then, she is still actively coaching in that area, as well as doing School coaching, older skills

coaching and coaching our Youth league women. She also coaches a number of domestic teams, from U14 to U17, and is Hawkesbury’s Female Coaching Director. “As an aside, Cleo was also nominated for, and shortlisted, for Administrator of the Year (voluntary) for associations 1000-300 members.

She had a background in both HR and Finance in the Defence Dept and soon after she joined the board at Hawkesbury, she took over as Treasurer (now Financial director), at a time when the association was running close to the line, and soon turned things around there. Cleo is also our Competitions Coordinator for local competitions and our Junior delegate to BNSW for our rep teams.” HBA Secretary Stacey O’Toole said “Cleo is also one of our women’s basketball development officers and our sporting schools’ coach, travelling to even the most remote schools in the Hawkesbury like MacDonald Valley. “Cleo has coordinated endless gala days and fed many beginners into competition basketball. She is a Scoretable Level 2, one of our head coaches, a referee and a qualified referee Court Supervisor, volunteering many hours to the club. Administration as well, Junior League delegate for many years and BNSW liaison. Helps us to maintain a great working relationship with BNSW, assists BNSW Finals and preseason events.”