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Friday, 2 April 2021

ISSUE 132

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Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

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Flood evacuation route must be prioritised

lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has joined the call for the immediate prioritising of construction of the proposed $1.8 billion Castlereagh Freeway. Extreme flooding in Sydney’s northwest this week has highlighted the need for a major, safe evacuation route for residents in the fastdeveloping areas around Marsden Park, Schofields and Riverstone. “NSW Government planning policies have allowed rapid development with an extra 14-thousand homes and 40-thousand people moving into the area over the next 15 years.” Mayor Bleasdale said. “But at the same time, the Government has delayed building road and rail infrastructure including vital flood evacuation routes.” Mayor Bleasdale said. “We have Government agencies in disagreement, and it has put the safety of thousands of residents at risk.

Flooding in Bandon Rd, Vineyard.

“Infrastructure NSW has said that the Castlereagh Freeway evacuation route was not a state priority and not cost-effective, even though its own report in 2019 said there was insufficient road capacity (in the area) to safely evacuate the at-risk population in an extreme flood. “Transport for NSW has advised that the Castlereagh Freeway is currently not prioritised and,

therefore, no funds are available to undertake a business case. “However, Infrastructure Australia, the Federal Government’s key advisory body, has included the road on its high priority list. “At least NSW Planning Minister, Rob Stokes, has realised the potential flood risk by placing a pause on the approval of a number of developments in Marsden Park North and West

Schofields in the north west until the developers produce a better flood mitigation strategy. “All levels of Government must get together now to ensure the proper planning controls are put in place, and the proper infrastructure built to ensure the safety of the communities in our rapidly developing suburbs in the northwest growth areas.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Council to operate waste pickup in flood-damaged areas An extreme weather event, bringing 5 days of heavy rain and extensive flooding, has impacted much of the Sydney Basin and Blacktown City Council local government area. To assist with the clean-up efforts for the collection and dispose of waste, Blacktown City Council will be operating a curb-side pickup. Council assistance for flood-damaged areas Starting Saturday 27 March, Council will operate the curb-side pickup service for damaged goods and household furniture in flood-affected areas.

The following suburbs and streets will be visited by Council crews until the goods have been removed. • The Avenue at Walker Parade, Angus (formerly Riverstone) • Palmerston Rd and Simpson Hill Rd, Mount Druitt • Carnarvon Rd, Schofields/Riverstone, and Clark St and Riverstone Rd, Riverstone • Durham Rd, Kerry/Angus Rd, Townsend Rd, and Jersey Rd, Schofields

• White St, Riverstone Rd, Shanes Park Rd, South Creek Rd, and Eight Avenue Bridge, Shanes Park Residents will not need to book for this service. Council is aware there may be other areas requiring curb-side pickup. Residents in floodaffected areas can contact Council’s call centre with further questions on (02) 9839 6000. Normal waste services will not be affected Please note that the regular Council curb-side waste collection will operate as usual. Please book via Council website.

Have your say on commuter car park at Schofields Station

ransport for NSW is inviting public transport users and the community to provide feedback on updated plans for a proposed commuter car park at Schofields Station, which would provide approximately 700 additional parking spaces. The NSW government has identified vacant land to the northwest of Schofields Station as the proposed site for the carpark project, which is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s Commuter Car Park Program. “The proposed car park will make it more convenient to access public transport services at Schofields Station, with the aim to ease congestion on our roads,” said Kevin Conolly, Member for Riverstone. “Late last year we invited the community to provide feedback on the proposal. Since then, public feedback and discussions with the landowner have resulted in a change to the footprint and we are now seeking feedback on the revised concept design. “The new design would reduce the

maximum distance that a commuter would need to walk from their car to the platform”, said Mr Conolly. “As well as delivering the 700 space carpark, an additional NSW Government funded 60 space car park at Schofields is nearing completion, and will be open in the coming weeks. “I encourage everyone to view the revised proposal online and provide feedback at https://www.transport.

nsw.gov.au/schofields. Feedback received during the consultation period will be considered as part of the planning approval process.” Key features of the proposal include: • a new ground level commuter car park with approximately 700 additional parking spaces located on vacant land to the north-west of

Schofields Station • entry and exit to the new car park off Schofields Road and from Bridge Street, with access from Altrove Boulevard / Calder Street to come • dedicated accessible parking spaces • dedicated motorcycle parking bays • dedicated pathways connecting to the existing footpath along Bridge Street • Transport Park & Ride infrastructure (Opal operated boom gates) • CCTV, lighting, fencing and wayfinding signage for improved safety and security • landscaping within the car park. “The proposed carpark would not only deliver benefits for hundreds of commuters but will generate jobs in a range of fields including engineering, construction and administration roles,” Mr Conolly said. Subject to planning approval, construction of the car park at Schofields is expected to begin in mid-2021 and be opened to the public in mid-2022.

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t was just another day for Amara and her son Aihan as they walked through the doors at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope on Thursday 18 March. For 3-year old Aihan in particular, he was as excited as ever to get to his Little Kickers class. For Amara things were about to get much more exciting! There waiting in reception was Council’s Manager Key Venues, Kevin Jones, ready to greet the centre’s 15 millionth visitor. And it was Amara! As the 15 millionth visitor, Amara was congratulated with flowers, a merchandise pack, a free gym membership for her and her husband and a complimentary term of swim lessons for Aihan. Blacktown City Mayor, Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “It’s great to see Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope reach yet another remarkable milestone. “With the vast array of programs on offer and the wonderful Dennis Johnson

Branch Library sharing the facilities, this is truly a great asset for the local community” Mayor Bleasdale said. Since opening in February 2003, Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope has been a huge hit with the local and regional community. Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope is Council’s flagship leisure facility that offers a diverse range of programs and activities for the community and is also home to Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope. Since opening in 2003, Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope has become a feature of the local and regional community. With more than 20 community and industry awards, more than 2 million learn to swim enrolments and well over 250,000 exercise classes conducted, the facilities continue to attract visitors from far and wide. For information on Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope contact 9421 2600 or visit our website at www.blacktown.nsw. gov.au/blcs

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

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

15 million is a lucky number! I

(L to R): Little Kickers Blacktown & Districts Coach, Craig, Amara and son Aihan and Manager Key Venues, Kevin Jones.

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Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

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From the Editor’s Desk By BART BASSETT

irstly as a community we need to thank the enormous work performed by SES, other emergency services and general members of the public who went about supporting the community affected by the flooding. The flooding of the Hawkesbury and Nepean valley last week was yet another wake up call to not just government but the community in general that flood mitigation is urgently required. When Warragamba Dam was built it was built as a water storage facility not a mitigation dam and even to this day that is exactly what the operating procedure is for the dam, to keep it as full as possible to supply Sydney with quality potable water. The recent occurrences of east coast low weather system and Warragamba Dam at close to 100% has shown yet again that flooding and property loss is inevitable if a do nothing attitude continues. Prior to 1995, the Fahey Government and some senior Government Ministers were very responsible in planning to minimise the potential for a catastrophic flood in the Hawkesbury/ Nepean floodplain. Unfortunately during the election campaign Bob Carr committed not to raise the wall and built a spillway instead to protect the integrity of the dam wall and also constructed some flood evacuation routes to protect lives but it did nothing to help reduce property damage caused by flooding in the region. Then again, post-election 2011, another east coast low hit the Warragamba catchment area and the office of the new Premier Barry O’Farrell and full credit to him and his office they realised Sydney had dodged another flooding catastrophe and he instructed his office to immediately review the 1995 studies to assess the best possible flood mitigation investment for the Hawkesbury/Nepean floodplain. Whilst the planning process has progressed to raise the dam wall another 14 metres to be used only for flood mitigation it has been a very very slow progression. As usual ‘anti-everything’ groups have been looking for any reason to stop this important project. The raising of the dam wall will not stop every flood, but it will reduce the amount of floods that cause catastrophic damage and it will help lower the height of flooding on the floodplain. Surely now, following this most recent flood and the damage caused by it, those people opposed to the project can think about other people. Many have had their lives turned upside down and will again if nothing is done to mitigate flooding. The NSW Government needs to show real strength now and push ahead with raising the dam wall as quickly as possible, no more excuses and no more delays.

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he NSW Government has announced the site for the $300 million Rouse Hill Hospital, to be built on the north-eastern side of Windsor Road. Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the new site, located near Commercial Road, ensures ideal transport and road links for Western Sydney’s growing population. “I want to thank the local community for their patience as the experts have worked through a number of challenging obstacles to select a site which will offer the best outcome for the people of Rouse Hill and Western Sydney,” Mr Hazzard said. “I am thrilled to see us move to the next stage in delivering this vital health infrastructure project. The final site has better access and allows for more land use opportunities compared with the previously announced site, and allows us to better meet the future health needs of Western Sydney.” Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said the new hospital will be a tremendous asset for generations.

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

Final site selected for new Rouse Hill Hospital

“I am excited that we are still on track to get construction underway before the next election. To have a new hospital built in the right location is what our communities deserve,” Mr Conolly said. Member for Castle Hill Ray Williams said it would be a huge advantage for our patients, staff and carers to have good connectivity to the Rouse Hill Town Centre and a Sydney Metro station so close. “Good public transport and road access is essential. Not just for patients and their families but also for the thousands of staff who will get jobs at this new hospital,” Mr Williams said. The site acquisition process is underway and construction will start in this term of Government, prior to March 2023. The NSW Government has committed $10.7 billion in health infrastructure investment over four years. Since 2011, the NSW Government has completed more than 150 health capital projects across the state.

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Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

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Free app to help western Sydney with translated phrases for healthcare

onversations between healthcare providers, patients and carers in western Sydney will now be easier thanks to a new and free app to help culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. The CALD Assist app has more than 250 useful phrases translated into 10 of the most common community languages in NSW. Developed by clinicians, the healthcare-focused phrases are divided into nursing, allied health (such as physiotherapists) and COVID-19 categories with written and spoken options. The app will be particularly useful in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD), where around half of residents were born overseas and speak a language other than English at home. The phrases such as “are you cold?” and “you will need to self-isolate until you receive your COVID-19

The app contains more than 250 useful phrases in 10 languages for low-risk healthcare settings.

test result”, have been professionally translated into: • Arabic • Cantonese • Croatian • Greek

• Italian • Macedonian • Mandarin • Serbian • Spanish • Vietnamese

More languages are being considered for future updates to the app. Gordana Vasic, manager of the Health Care Interpreter Service at WSLHD, welcomed the new app while explaining it is not a replacement for interpreters. “When it comes to clinical conversations with patients who are not fluent in English or who are deaf, healthcare professionals must always engage professional healthcare interpreters,” Gordana said. “On the other hand, it is not always possible or practical to have interpreters present for basic, low risk communications. In those instances I strongly support the use of the CALD Assist app. “It will certainly improve the CALD patients’ experience, especially for inpatients. It will also enable our clinicians to have those regular basic care conversations with their patients, which are so crucial for patient centred care.”

Westmead’s world-class hospital officially opened

ore operating theatres, patient rooms and worldclass services, including two new Emergency Departments, are all part of Westmead Hospital’s new 14-storey clinical tower officially unveiled recently. Staff and services began relocating to the new hospital building in February, with both the adult and children’s Emergency Departments now open to the public. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the Central Acute Services Building is the centrepiece of the more than $1 billion Westmead Health Precinct. “This new state-of-the-art health

facility will serve Western Sydney’s health needs for generations to come, with world-class research and education capacity embedded on every floor,” Ms Berejiklian said. “The Westmead Health Precinct was fast-tracked under the NSW Government’s COVID-19 response and will include a range of integrated adult and children’s health services for the first time, including separate emergency departments.” Mr Hazzard said the collaboration between Westmead Hospital, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and the University of Sydney will mean patients receive cutting edge

treatment and care. “Westmead is a shining example of how to attract leading health staff and researchers to provide the very best healthcare to Western Sydney residents,” Mr Hazzard said. Member for Parramatta, Geoff Lee, said: “Western Sydney is expected to have a population of about 1.3 million people by 2031 so this is great news for the local community.” Member for Seven Hills Mark Taylor said: “The Westmead Hospital Upgrade is terrific for the local community. Further refurbishments are on track to be completed in 2022, delivering even more world-class

healthcare facilities for Western Sydney residents.” Key features of the new Central Acute Services Building include: • Two new emergency departments — one for adults and one for children; • 25 digital operating theatres; • More than 300 patient rooms; and • 1.5 floors for the University of Sydney to further integrate education, research and health services. In March 2019, the NSW Government announced an additional $619 million for Stage 2 of The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. This includes a new Paediatric Services Building and car parking.

Sleep is not for the weak – 50 percent of teens falling short of their full 8 hours

ave you ever thought that behaviour we casually dismiss as “teenage angst” — the moodiness, constant battles, sleeping all day, the reckless, impulsive or careless behaviour — is not a normal part of being a teen? New studies have revealed that approximately 50 per cent of Australians aged 16-17 are not getting enough sleep to meet national sleep guidelines, impacting on their mental, physical and emotional health. Whilst quality sleep at any age is important, the teenage years are a formative period meaning the brain and body experience significant development whilst they transition to adulthood. National Sleep Awareness Week ran from 14 – 21 March 2021 with the aim of helping you and your family members get a better night’s sleep. So how much sleep should kids and teenagers be getting? While sleep needs are unique to each person, the Australian National Guidelines recommend: Children under 3 months- 14 – 17 hours of good quality sleep Toddlers- 11 – 14 hours Children aged 6 to 13 years- 9 – 11 hours

Teenagers- 8 – 10 hours. WSLHD Population health deputy director Christine Newman, says that although sleep patterns may vary, it is crucial for children and adolescents to gain the adequate amount of sleep each night. “Not getting enough sleep or not sleeping well can affect how children learn and may lead to mood swings and behavioural problems,” Ms Newman said. “There is also strong evidence between not getting enough sleep and childhood overweight and obesity.

“Nurturing quality sleep habits for children from an early age is vital for a child’s physical health, brain function, emotional wellbeing, safety and ability to function day to day.” Ms Newman said parents and carers play an important role to help their children create positive, regular sleep habits early on and offered these tips to help nurture teens sleep: • Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day • Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed • Eat a healthy diet • Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, chocolate and energy drinks • Help your child wind down by reading a book or listening to soft music • Make sure the bedroom is suitable for sleep by having it dark and quiet Dr Chris Seton, a Paediatric and Adolescent sleep specialist from The Children’s Hospital at Westmead also shares tips to help children and teenagers set up healthy sleep habits in a series of helpful videos. For any help with adult sleep issues, contact the Westmead Hospital Sleep Clinic on (02) 8890 6797.

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lacktown City Council is inviting residents to ‘have their say’ in the development of Council’s new Cultural Plan, ‘Our Creative City’. Council’s Community Strategic Plan strives to provide a vibrant and inclusive community that provides cultural opportunities and community activities for all residents. Blacktown Arts is calling for residents to complete a survey on what creative and cultural experiences are important to them. Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, encouraged the Blacktown City community to take part in the ‘Our Creative City’ survey. “Blacktown City is one of the most diverse local areas in all of Australia, and we understand how important culture, connection, and creativity is to the vibrancy of our wonderful community,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “Whether it’s heading along to a cultural festival, watching a movie, getting stuck into a good book or playing an instrument, creativity and culture are part of everyone’s daily life. “Over the coming months as Council develops a new cultural plan, we need your help to imagine the future of Blacktown City as a creative city. “We want to hear from our residents about what creativity and culture means in their daily lives.”

Raging Waters is also offering the chance to win 1 of 5 double passes for a single day visit (2021-2022 season) to participants who enter the draw at the

completion of the survey. To have your say for the new Cultural Plan visit: www.blacktown.nsw.gov. au/Have-Your-Say/Our-Creative-City.

The survey will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. Feedback closes on Monday, April 12, 2021.

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Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

Community invited to have their say for new Cultural Plan

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

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Record COVID Safe check-ins and Blacktown business blitz preventing the spread

t’s been revealed the Service NSW app has been downloaded more than four million times and used for more than 117 million COVID Safe check-ins. With download numbers equal to approximately 75 per cent of NSW’s adult population, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the technology has been a game-changer in keeping the community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The app has not only provided an easy solution for businesses and customers for checking in, it importantly assists NSW Health and the contact tracing team in the event of an outbreak,” Ms Berejiklian said. While people are successfully using the app to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) and Blacktown City Council have provided COVID-19 education and guidance to Blacktown businesses as part of a COVID safety “blitz”. Specially trained environmental health officers recently visited more than 80 businesses including restaurants, cafés, beauty and massage parlours, and hairdressing salons over

WSLHD COVID Safety Inspection Team left to right Elka Tinker, Jeremy Asuit (kneeling) Jayden Coldwell Jackey, Sree Brahmapuram, Tamika Baloch and Kira Hofer.

two days. The “blitz team” worked with business owners to help them understand COVID-19 safety requirements. WSLHD Public Health Unit director

Dr Shopna Bag thanked businesses who are doing the right thing with their safety plans and following NSW Government advice. “There are five areas the ‘Blitz team’ looked at including having a current

COVID-19 Safety Plan – physical distancing measures, staff and customer wellbeing, record keeping, and hand hygiene,” said Dr Bag. “Some businesses are required to have completed a COVID Safety Plan under law, through Public Health Orders. Having an up-to-date COVID Safety Plan is the best way businesses can be sure they are applying the necessary COVID safety measures to protect their staff and patrons.” The two-day business blitz in Blacktown complemented previous education sessions and COVID Safe inspections conducted in the Cumberland Local Government Area (LGA) in late December 2020. COVID Safe inspections will continue in Western Sydney over the coming weeks. Local businesses can access a range of free COVID-19 resources from the Western Sydney COVID-19 Community Resources website here. WSLHD’s Environmental Health team can also assist businesses in Blacktown, Cumberland, Parramatta, and the Hills Shire LGAs with COVID-19 safety enquiries on 9840 3603.

Kathmandu was no easy trek for speech pathologist

Speech pathologists Prabha Dawadee (TUTH), Athena Chan and Anil Adhikary (TUTH)

enior speech pathologist Athena Chan has returned to western Sydney after spending a year establishing a clinic in the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu. Part of the Australian Volunteers Program, this opportunity of a lifetime enabled Athena to work as a speech pathologist at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH). “Volunteering in Nepal helped me step outside my comfort zone, think outside the box, build resilience and broadened my perspective on different cultures,” Athena said. “Adapting to life in Kathmandu was not easy. I didn’t speak the language and it was difficult adjusting to their healthcare system which had poor internal and external communications, shortage of healthcare professionals and limited resources.

“The skills I gained will help me in my WSLHD speech pathology role especially when I’m working with children and families from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.” Nepali people travel more than 14 hours to receive care at TUTH, one of Nepal’s major tertiary hospitals. Athena joined a team of local medical and allied health professionals to establish a dysphagia service for people who have difficulty swallowing. They also raised the awareness of speech pathology in the community, built capacity for more local speech pathologists to work at the hospital and improved the quality of health services. “My role as a senior clinical speech pathologist is to provide leadership,

Athena’s day hike in Nepal with the Himalayan mountains in the background.

team coordination and governance of our service to improve the health and developmental outcomes for children in our communities,” she said. “Being able to share my skills and knowledge and make a positive impact on the lives of others and advocate for speech pathology internationally was a great privilege.” Athena and the speech pathology team from TUTH also introduced the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative to Nepal. This initiative enables healthcare professionals to use correct, common terminology to describe food textures and drink thickness for people with swallowing difficulties. “We were able to educate

healthcare professionals, carers, families and patients with dysphagia on safe and appropriate food and fluid consistencies,” Athena said. “I will always cherish the extraordinary experiences I had and I’m humbled by the warm generosity of everyone I met in Nepal.” Athena travelled with her partner Kashi Samaraweera, a senior technical lead for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. He worked on a separate volunteer assignment with local government. The WSLHD Child and Family Speech Pathology team is responsible for the assessment and management of communication and feeding difficulties in children.

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estmead Hospital has elevated its elite trauma service with a dedicated ward to care for patients with multiple life-threatening injuries. Patients and staff moved to Level 8b of the new 14-storey Central Acute Services Building on Wednesday, March 3. Among them was Julia, flown to Westmead Hospital in February following a motorcycle crash that left her with multiple broken bones and internal injuries. “The care has been fantastic here. It’s been priceless, it’s just been phenomenal. They’ve been here all the time for me,” Julia said. “I’ve had teams and teams of doctors making sure that all of my injuries, all of my problems have all been solved each time. I’ve just got to ring a buzzer – even at 2 o’clock in the morning – and the nurses are here to help me. “I’ve been really lucky to be part of the first patients through the new trauma unit. It’s absolutely beautiful. The colours on the walls mean it’s quite calming, the room is big enough so everyone can get around it. “All the facilities are here for the staff to be able to help me, and the experience has been beautiful. There’s a beautiful view. It just makes me feel like I’m going to get better now.” Westmead Trauma Service cares for an average of 2,900 patients each year, including more than 500 with severe injuries. The leading causes of admission are falls (46%), road incidents (22%) and assaults (8.5%). Westmead Hospital head of trauma, Associate Professor Jeremy Hsu said the new ward would provide some of

The first patient in the Westmead CASB Trauma ward, Julia, who is recovering from a motorcycle accident.

the most comprehensive trauma care in Australia. “We have a whole team of dedicated staff with specialised skills for people with multiple injuries. This team of medical, nursing and allied health staff has to be across it all, from organ damage to muscular-skeletal injuries and neurological trauma,” Associate Professor Hsu said. “I remember first working on the plans for this unit in 2014, so it is very exciting to see it realised now in the best environment we could ask for.” Among the guests present for the first day of operation were retired Westmead trauma nurses Christine Read-Allsopp and Trish McDougall OAM. Christine was the first trauma nurse in Australasia and started the data collection at Westmead Hospital with a notebook and pencil. She was

the first and only nurse to receive the Gordon Trinca Medal from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Her research showed that only 30 per cent of Westmead’s trauma patients were coming in during business hours, which proved the catalyst for the first dedicated afterhours trauma service. “I’m very proud and privileged to have worked in trauma for 36 years and witnessed immense changes in that time. It’s been an amazing journey and wonderful to see the advancements in care,” Christine said. Trish was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her contributions to trauma. These included establishing a lifesaving new protocol for patients with serious bleeding, and including families and carers in the nurse rounds – an innovation later adopted by major US

hospitals. “Working in trauma requires ongoing education for the rest of your life. The situation can change in minutes. This new ward is real progress in recognising trauma is its own disease. This is a magnificent building and the staff know what they’re doing; they’re leading the way,” Trish said. “One thing you must never forget is that you are not just saving patients’ lives, you are giving them a life.” The trauma ward is the first inpatient unit to move into the new Central Acute Services Building (CASB), also known as K Block. Other successful moves so far include the emergency department, transit lounge, central sterilising services department, perioperative care, operating suites, and satellite services of medical imaging and pharmacy. The centrepiece of the $1 billionplus Westmead Redevelopment, the CASB will provide western Sydney with high-quality healthcare, research and educational facilities for decades to come. The new hospital will feature two new emergency departments – one for adults, one for children – more than 300 patient rooms, 25 digital operating theatres and a suite of other features. The Westmead Health Precinct is one of the largest health, education, research, innovation and training precincts in Australia, featuring four major hospitals, four world-leading medical research institutes, two university campuses and the largest research intensive pathology service in NSW.

Volunteers return to service at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals

lacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals volunteers are returning to work after a year’s absence due to the COVID-19 outbreak which began in 2020. Mount Druitt Hospital’s Kiosk and Gift Shop volunteers are just some of the 120 strong volunteer workforce who are back at the hospital ready to serve and sustain the local community. Wayfinding, Pink Ladies, ward helpers, courtesy desk, therapy dogs, cardiology and intensive care volunteers will come in scheduled intervals throughout March to ensure a COVID Safe return to service. Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals volunteer manager Colin Dent is thrilled volunteers are back as they have been instrumental in helping the patients, visitors and staff. “I’m looking forward to personally welcoming them back to work and meeting them for the first time,” Colin said. “I’ve heard from many staff that the volunteers have been sorely missed and they are looking forward to having them back on board.

Blacktown Hospital Intensive Care Unit Volunteer Sue Rome.

Mount Druitt Kiosk Volunteer Emily Jancek.

Mount Druitt Hospital Kiosk volunteer Emily Jancek is restocking the Kiosk shelves and is eager to open the shop. The Appin resident and mother-ofone works two days in the shop and is always available to step in and work extra shifts. “I’m glad to be back at the Kiosk,

it gets me out of the house doing something and giving back to the community,” Emily said. “It’s a huge weight off my shoulders knowing we’re coming back to work this month because I was getting really bored at home reading books and completing loads of puzzles!” Twelve volunteers help run the

hospital Kiosk and all proceeds made from sales are returned to the hospital to purchase medical equipment. “We are seeking more volunteers to help run the shop and we welcome people who can commit their time and energy to the hospital,” she said. Blacktown Hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU) volunteer Sue Rome has missed helping the department’s staff and patients and can’t wait to return to work for her fifth year of service. “I’d like to come back to work as soon as I can so I can help the staff and take some of the tasks off their hands,” Sue said. Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals have volunteers who provide more than 15 programs to the wards and departments. All volunteers undertake a safety and wellbeing check and their tasks will be reviewed to ensure COVID-19 safety plans are followed prior to their return. If you are interested in volunteering at Blacktown or Mount Druitt hospitals, send an email to colin. dent@health.nsw.gov.au

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

Westmead Hospital’s new dedicated trauma unit

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

WESTERN HISTORY

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The Railway Institute

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

he NSW Railway Institute was formally opened in March 1891 with the first building in Chalmers Street, Surry Hills and was added to the NSW State Heritage Register in April 1999. It can claim to setting an example for the interests of the Railway Staff in this part of the world, being the first and only Institution of its kind in the Commonwealth. Since then, others were founded on similar lines in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania. In the early years of the Institution social activities were more dominant than educational but it was not long before the needs of younger railway men became more insistent, and the Institute changed to provide training essential to the success of both the individual and the Department. The goal set was training the men for every position in the railway service. The rapid growth of the numbers of the staff emphasised the need for the training that widened the field of the Institute’s opportunities. During the life of the Institute the numbers employed in the service had doubled and the average number of new entrants was nearly 800 annually back then, all who had to be trained in the work they needed to do. A Committee was appointed to consider this and after careful deliberation they drew up a schedule of the subjects that were needed to be studied for every grade and calling within the railway department in NSW. In 1925 a banquet was held for the retired railway men in the Penrith Railway Institute by the employees of the railway. This banquet was possibly unique in the history of the railway, celebrating the retired railway men of the district who had so faithfully performed for many years. James Baker claimed to be the oldest guard in NSW with 40 years of railway service. Nearly 100 railway men attended after invitations had been issued to every retired railway man in the district. Mr H J Aubrey Vice-President of the Institution proposed the toast of the evening and spoke of the work performed by railway men in the early days, comparing it with the work of the men in 1925, pointing out that in the early years they did not have large engines or heavy loads and no regulations, but they had their difficulties just the same. There was no Westinghouse Air Brakes in those days. He spoke about the “Per Way men” (short for “permanent way men” who in the early days when the line was divided into sections, each section had its gang of men who were responsible for that section). He said that men worked 10 hours or more in all weather and for the miserable pittance of 6/- or 7/- a day wondering how they managed under these conditions to rear a family. Mr Primmer of the Per Way Depot spoke about the comparison with the early days of light engines, light loads and slow tables whereas in 1925 the heavy engine, heavy loads and fast tables were factors that counted heavily and increased Per Way men’s responsibility. James Baker presented the Institution with two pictures of the great railway smash at Emu Plains in January 1878, and he gave an account of the smash with the pictures being proof positive of the occasion. He said the accident happened when the up train collided with a down train at what was known as the foot of the Long Bank between Emu Plains and No. 1 Gate. The driver and fireman of the up train were both killed along with the assistant guard who was buried under the tender and the body not recovered until the next day. The driver and the fireman of the down train were terribly injured by a boiler explosion, one hurled up against the fence and the other badly scalded. He spoke about the early railway days remembering the first engines that crossed the Nepean River on the punt for construction work. James, born at Narellan in 1848 lived

 Q Theatre in the Railway Institute courtesy of Penrith Library

in High Street west Penrith. He died in Nepean District Hospital in October 1932 at the age of 84 and is buried in Penrith General cemetery. In 1926 Roland Jordan a railway driver retired after 41 years of service with a record of never having been connected with an accident. He was entertained at a large gathering of western railway men at Penrith’s Railway Institute and presented with several gifts, including a medal from the Engine drivers, Firemen and Cleaner’s Association being an active member, also Mr W H Vine, chargeman of the Penrith yards was leaving the service after 41 years of service and received several presentations. It seems that the old hall was being outdated when in 1939 the Railway Department put out tenders for the erection of a brick building for the Institute. The old place in Belmore Street was condemned with the site of the new building being nearby with entrance from Short Street closed to public traffic. The tender expired and Penrith Council adopted a recommendation by the inspector that a closing order be issued which ended the “old home.” The new one seemed to be in the distance but in April 1940 the work of erecting a hall was commenced. Railway Street was continued through to Belmore Street as it was less likely to become an important thoroughfare in the future, but it would be continued in the other direction to Henry Street. The opening of the new Penrith Railway Institute building was performed by the Chief Railway Commissioner Mr Hartigan. In March 1941 the hall was used as an old-time and jazz dance with the admission of 1/- that included supper. In May that year a farewell held in the Institute for railwayman Albert Stanley Ausburn who enlisted in the A.I.F. He received a beautifully initialled wallet. In 1976 a small performance group the “Q Theatre” led by Doreen Warburton moved to Penrith into the Railway Institute after playing to Sydney’s lunchtime audiences at Circular Quay since 1963. Against all warnings of “cultural suicide,” Doreen accepted Penrith Council’s offer of the Railway Institute building as their permanent home and the first production was “Lock Up Your Daughters” in March 1977. This move helped the Q Theatre to expand its facilities and repertoire and staged challenging and provocative work to packed enthusiastic audiences. The theatre helped young actors Judy Davis and Toni Collette begin their acting careers. In 2006 they were rehoused into the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre and that year the Railway Institute building was demolished to make way for the multi-story State Government office building. Sources: History of the NSW Railway Institute -Bob Ritchie 2015 online, Q theatre then and now, Nepean Times, Trove, Ancestry.

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Western News

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

f the interest rate on your home loan does not start with a two (2), you are probably being overcharged. The RBA last Tuesday, Melbourne Cup Day cut the cash rate by 0.15 per cent from 0.25 per cent, it lowered it to a level not seen in 30 years of documented history. Governor Philip Lowe, the head of the RBA said the 0.10 per cent cash rate is as low as it will go. The RBA had indicated previously the current low cash rate may not be increased for at least three years. Australia’s largest banks have refused to pass on the Reserve Bank’s emergency cash rate cut, denying thousands of borrowers the relief of lower mortgage repayments, according to a report by The Australian. Many of the Non-bank lenders have already announced they will pass on the full on the full cut to their borrowers. Governor Lowe said he would “expect and hope” for the cash rate reduction to be passed on to all borrowers. However, he also advised borrowers that they should be more active in negotiating with their lenders – or, if that does not work, take their business elsewhere.

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and there is a great deal of paperwork involved and put the notion of refinancing in the too hard basket. Choosing a home loan is a big deal, so it’s really important that you find the right loan that suits your individual needs. There is no reason to pay a high interest rate on your home loan and managing it closely could save you thousands of dollars a year. Being loyal to your lender is not a good reason to pay a higher rate or simply being lazy and timepoor, can also be offences punishable by a higher debt in the world of finance so now is the perfect time to know your numbers and make sure your home loan is competitive. Refinancing is certainly not as difficult as it used to be and Wealthwiz can guide you through the entire loan process. We do all the work for you and here to save you money while providing you with the important details on each lender, so you can be confident in your selection. To get a better understanding contact Alex at Wealthwiz for a free home loan review on 0419 600 177 or email at alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

If Your Mortgage Rate Does not Start With a 2, You’re Overpaying

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Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

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Western News

Bob Turner appointed Blacktown City Executive Chairman

mbitious National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s club Blacktown City have announced the appointment of one of Australia’s most recognisable and respected sports personalities in former NBL Basketball legendary coach Bob Turner as its new Executive Chairman, as part of the club’s new restructure. The 70-year-old organisation will see Turner as a major asset in a bid to recommence the club’s redevelopment, as the well-travelled sporting personality will be using all his expertise in taking the club to the next level. “When I weighed up the positives of the club’s history, its culture and reputation, the proven coaching reputation that Mark Crittenden has brought to the club and its home venue, which is one of the best facilities in Sydney, the ingredients were stacking up that the opportunity to capitalise and make a difference was a great one”, Turner said. “In addition, the last eleven years of my association with Blacktown, including my current role as Vice President of the Greater Blacktown Business Chamber, have opened my eyes to both the misunderstandings and the potential of the city. “Our name Blacktown City FC is ‘Priceless’ and critical to achieve the objectives of the new Board.” Joining Turner on the board will be former Blacktown City legend and business owner Luke Roodenburg, Chris Gafa, Steve Crawhall and Gina Moutzouris, while the club’s Head of Football Mark Crittenden will also assist with the new team. Steve Crawhall was eagerly looking forward to working alongside Turner in ensuring Blacktown City remained at the top of their game on and off the pitch. “It’s great to have Bob as part of the Blacktown City FC family. Blacktown City FC has a proud tradition of

Bob Turner Mayor having a kick - plus Board

success and we believe having Bob onboard will continue that success off the field, which will compliment all the work done from previous boards. “This is an excellent fit to the City of Blacktown and will compliment the current head of Football in Mark Crittenden.” Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale was delighted with the club’s major appointment. “If the new Board can achieve even half their goals in the next few years, the city of Blacktown will be the winner. “Bob has been a true advocate for Blacktown and his sporting history indicates he has the ability to achieve his goals for Blacktown City FC”. Deputy Mayor and Councillor for the ward Julie Griffiths also echoed Tony Bleasdale’s sentiments. “I am excited at the new direction of the organisation and the fact they are operating in my ward is great news. “I am an avid football coach and their future commitment to women’s football is music to my ears as well”. One of the most important ingredients for future success is the teams home venue and the club is grateful to Vince Camera of Lily Homes for his efforts to maintain

and improve the venue. Vince was a previous Blacktown City FC Director and has provided long term support to the club. He is fully behind the new move and will remain as an advisor to the Board. “My business interest must take precedence, but I believe in Blacktown City FC and the ambitious direction the new Board is heading,” Camera stated. Lily Homes Stadium has a current capacity of 6,000, and the end goal is to fill the stadium on a regular basis. Blacktown City FC proved that was possible when they played the Western Sydney Wanderers in the Quarter Finals of the FFA Cup back in 2017. They not only packed the stadium but almost pulled off a major upset after defeating the Central Coast Mariners the week before. The first priority of the new Board is to structure a firm financial operation for the long-term stability of the club. A focus on building attendance, corporate support, and acceptance from its home city, Blacktown, will be a priority. The goal of the board is to live up to its team name and become a ‘Top of Mind’ sporting organisation for Blacktown.

A healthy Blacktown City FC playing in front of full houses will not only be a Game Changer for the club but for the city itself to have a team they can proudly follow and call their own. The credentials of the on-field activity at Blacktown City FC are generally accepted by most in football to be first class and was another selling point for new Executive Chairman Bob Turner. “As a former professional Coach for many years, I have been impressed with the on-field activity, coaching and most importantly the culture that our Head of Football Mark Crittenden has developed in the club. The on-field culture, advancement of players and coaching staff are solid. “The new marketing and vision will aim to maximise the vast potential of the club”, Turner said. Football is a universal and global sport that ideally fits the multicultural demographic that is Blacktown. For Blacktown City FC the intention will be for the club to represent the city with pride and distinction. The principles of building a professional sporting team are similar for most team sports and include the team, a competition, a culture, a city for support, a home venue people want to go to, and a great deal of energy to ‘Sell’ the programme. The 70-year history of Blacktown City FC, its credible playing reputation and its culture through Head of Football are excellent starting points. Playing in the National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s competition with iconic teams such as the Marconi Stallions, Sydney United 58, Sydney Olympic, APIA Leichhardt and Wollongong Wolves to name a few, in one of the best home grounds in Sydney, add to the required ingredients, and now an enthusiastic Board will build on that history, culture and club name to generate a following in Blacktown.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Congressman (14) 10 Fruit or computer company (5) 11 A woman priest (9) 12 Unfathomable (7) 13 Accomplish (7) 14 Model of excellence (5) 16 Indigestion (9) 19 First (9) 20 Ascend (5) 22 Instigates (7) 25 Chattering (7) 27 Grease or oil (9) 28 Dissonant sound (5) 29 Abattoir (14)

down 2 An abnormal condition of the lungs (9) 3 Genus of rhubarb (5) 4 Burial chamber (9) 5 Nigerian monetary unit (5) 6 An appreciation of beauty or good taste (9) 7 A valley in France (5) 8 The time zone for New York (7) 9 Hunting expedition (6) 15 Comes with thunder (9) 17 Crocodile (9) 18 Heat, water and electricity (9) 19 Spears of frozen water (7) 21 Pleaded (6) 23 Asp (5) 24 Should or must (archaic) (5) 26 Type of drum (5)

solution 19/3/21

Western News

SPORT

trio of second-half goals has helped Blacktown City FC stun potential Premiership candidates Rockdale Ilinden FC 4-1 at Lily Homes Stadium on Sunday to once again assert themselves as a ‘dark horse’ in this season’s NPL NSW Men’s Title Challenge. It was a sensational return to form for Blacktown with the win breaking a two-game losing streak. Rockdale took an early lead but the home side found a spark from a Matthew Lewis moment of magic to make it 1-1 at the break. City turned it on after the break with goals to Mario Shabow, Carlos De Oliveira and Travis Major to ensure a well-earned win. Bright sunshine welcome both sides to Lily Homes Stadium for this contest. Rockdale Ilinden FC got off to a good start with Alec Urosevski having a chance in the opening 60 seconds which went wide. Grant Lynch tried to spark the Blacktown City FC side in return. The veteran weaved through the defence before he laid the pass to Suleyman Bangura whose effort was soft. Much of the positive work for Rockdale in the first half came through Urosevski and Mitchell Stamatellis. Both men combined for the opener. Stamatellis passed it wide for Urosevski to float one in off the crossbar for 1-nil. Again those two operated in tandem in the 18th minute. Stamatellis threaded through a precise ball for the striker whose prodded effort thumped against the post and away. Rockdale aimed to build on their early lead. Blacktown City FC found their way back into the contest through a moment of Lewis moment. The captain took a fabulous touch then thrashed the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-1. That goal woke the Blacktown City FC side up inside the final 15 minutes. Mario Shabow, Travis Major and Bangura had chances to put the home side in front. They were unable to find the net and the game headed to half-time level. Coming out of the break, both sides were much cagier in their approach. Chances were few and far between.

Blacktown City FC held the ball but were unable to find their way past Rockdale shot-stopper David Bradasevic. Rockdale looked to find a chance on the break. A furious break ended up with substitute Marie Gauthier ghosted into the box but he slid his effort wide of the post. Blacktown City FC found some joy as the clock ticked into the final 15 minutes. Travis Major rose highest to thump his header against the bar. The rebound fell to the feet of Mario Shabow who slotted home for 2-1. Not content to sit on their lead, Blacktown City FC continued to push forward and found a third goal. Substitute Carlos De Oliveira found the back of the net to bring the crowd at Lily Homes to their feet at 3-1. Blacktown City FC put the icing on the cake in stoppage time. Fan favourite Travis Major with some nice work inside the box and finished past a despairing Bradasevic to make it 4-1. Speaking afterwards victorious Blacktown City

FC coach Mark Crittenden was delighted that the side’s effort has turned into a result tonight: “We’ve been happy with how we have played the last few weeks and finally got a result. It was a funny first half then we dug deep and got a big result against a good side,” said Crittenden. “I was confident going into the game. I don’t think we’ve played poorly just haven’t been able to find the back of the net. We did that today and I am quite happy.” he finished. For Rockdale Ilinden coach Steve Zoric he was disappointed his side weren’t able to find the extra gear against Blacktown City as the 2020 Premiers were brought back down to earth by the hosts. “It was upsetting and disappointing. We started well [with the goal] and let them into the contest,” Zoric said. “They were eager and out enthused us tonight. It seemed like whatever changes we made weren’t working today. “Now it’s back to the training field to work on the small things which cost us.

Han Shoots Course Record to Claim Fox Hills Cup By Noel Rowsell

ichmond GC member James Han has shot a course record of 5-under par 64 to claim the Fox Hills Cup, 5 shots clear of joint runnersup Scott McGee (Liverpool GC) and Kreolin Moodley (Fox Hills). Han recorded 2 birdies and a bogey in his front nine of 33, then had 4 more birdies on the back nine for a score of 31 and an overall 64 to claim the course record. In the junior ranks, Kade Webber, Darcy Mackay and Savannah Webb (all from Stonecutters Ridge GC), along with Grace Lee (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC), have all performed well at the 2021 Peter O’Malley Junior Masters at Bathurst GC on 20th-21st March, finishing highly-ranked in their respective age divisions. Kade finished the 2-day tournament

Richmond GC’s James Han and his scorecard showing his new course record . Photos supplied by Fox Hills CC

with an impressive 5-over score of 147 to not only grab 2nd place in the ‘16 years and over’ age group but to also claim a share of 4th spot in the overall competition. Darcy shot a score of 13-over par of 155 to finish 2nd in the ‘12-13 years’ group and also in a tie for 13th in the

overall competition. Other local boys who competed included Jack Grieve (Dunheved GC) who finished tied for 16th in the ‘14/15 years’ age division and Ryan Cadle (Stonecutters Ridge), who finished tied for 19th in the ‘16 years and over’ division.

In the girls ranks, Savannah finished 3rd in the ‘Under 11’ Girls division, whilst Grace shot a 13-over score of 157 to finish 3rd in the ‘16 years and over’ division and tied for 9th in the overall competition.

Western News 2 April 2021 Issue 132

Blacktown City run rampant over Rockdale Ilinden

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 2 April 2021

Macpherson grabs another title at Concord

Troy Moses By Noel Rowsell

30-year old Victorian Bryden Macpherson has won his second Australian PGA title (the 2021 Golf Challenge NSW Open), which was held at Concord GC over the 25th-28th March. The Victorian held off all-comers for a title he compared in status and importance to his British Amateur Championship win back in 2011 and the biggest cheque of his career. Macpherson was always within reach of the lead during the final round and following an eagle on the 13th hole, hit the lead and would not relinquish it over the remaining 5 holes. “I honestly thought my chance was on the 12th hole, when I had a 12-footer for a little

Bryden Macpherson

2-shot swing, but luckily I got another chance on 13 and I took advantage,” Macpherson said. “I hadn’t really holed any long ones all week and I kept saying to myself that I’m due to hole one soon. It looked good the whole way.” “I didn’t seem to be reading putts very well. The best thing I could do was just stick in there and get lucky and some of the other guys will get nervous.” Rookie Elvis Smylie and Jack Thompson finished 3 shots behind Macpherson as joint runners-up. Local western Sydney professional Troy Moses had started the tournament relatively strongly with a 1-under par in round one but could not maintain that form on Friday, missing the cut for the weekend.

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