Blacktown News - April 2026

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AN evening for parents & children: The world of work is changing faster than ever, and for today’s young people, the path to a successful future is no longer a straight line. Careers of Today, presented by CathWest Innovation College at Mount Druitt and WEXPO on May 4 is a compelling and inspiring community evening for parents and school students to explore future career pathways together - with clarity, confidence and real-world insights. This is your chance to step beyond traditional thinking and discover the opportunities shaping the future workforce across key growth areas. Hear directly from industry experts, entrepreneurs and education leaders as they share. The evening will kick off with a panel of industry experts in key growth industries. More page 3.

Theme: Moments in Blacktown

Opens: Monday 9 March 2026

Closes: Friday 8 May 2026 For

Blacktown City

INAUGURAL MAYORAL

Photography Competition

Are you an aspiring photographer or simply enjoy photography as a weekend hobby?

Whether it’s a stunning sunset, a favourite local spot, a hidden gem, a community event or everyday life in our neighbourhoods, if it’s a photo taken in Blacktown City, we want to see it.

• The top 13 images will be featured in our 2027 Community Calendar, delivered to all households across Blacktown City. Winners will receive prizes and we will acknowledge social media handles or websites within the calendar.

• Photos must be taken within the Blacktown City local government area and be in landscape orientation.

• The competition is open to everyone, whether you live in Blacktown City or not!

This is your opportunity to showcase what makes Blacktown City vibrant, diverse and unique, while helping us celebrate and promote our community.

Submit your entry before Friday 8 May and show us what makes our city special. Only landscape images will be accepted.

To read the conditions of entry, or submit your photograph, visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/photocomp

Blacktown City Festival returns in 2026!

Blacktown City Festival is back and bigger than ever, with the whole month of May having something for everyone!

Old favourites Blacktown City Medieval Fayre, and Streets Alive and Parade Day will return, along with a whole list of exciting new events!

The full festival program will be available from 1 April at blacktown.nsw.gov.au/festival, with tickets available from 14 April.

Seven Hills Festival

Saturday 11 April from 10 am to 4 pm

Grantham Reserve, Mississippi Road, Seven Hills

Celebrate with your local community at the 2026 Seven Hills Festival at Grantham Reserve!

Join us for a fun-filled day of entertainment and activities for the whole family to enjoy including arts and craft stalls, food trucks and stalls, live stage performances, kids rides, workshops and displays.

Nursery Open Day

Saturday 18 April from 9 am to 2 pm

Blacktown City Council Nursery, Kent Street, Blacktown

Nursery open days are provided for residents who can’t pick up their annual allocation (2 plants per household, per residential year) during weekdays. Please note, these are not additional plant giveaways.

Residents can collect their 2 plants per property from a selection of native and exotic species. Nursery staff will be onsite to assist residents in selecting plants that will be appropriate for their garden. Proof of residency must be shown.

An evening for parents, children

THE world of work is changing faster than ever, and for today’s young people, the path to a successful future is no longer a straight line.

Careers of Today, presented by CathWest Innovation College at Mount Druitt and WEXPO on May 4 is a compelling and inspiring evening designed for parents and school students to explore future career pathways together - with clarity, confidence and real-world insights.

This is your chance to step beyond traditional thinking and discover the opportunities shaping the future workforce across key growth areas.

Hear directly from industry experts, entrepreneurs and education leaders as they share. The evening will kick off with a panel of industry experts in key growth industries including:

- AI & Technology: Kate Dodds.

- Australian Catholic University, Dr Valentine Mukuria.

- Construction: Darren Ingram, Clarendon Homes.

- Business Western Sydney (Tourism) David Borger.

- Early Childhood Education and Care, Jo Tapley.

- Health, Sophie Najjarin.

Moderator is Donna Davis MP, Member for Parramatta.

There will be an opportunity for questions and

answers to the panelists. Then parents and students will engage with industries, educational institutions & employers through an expo style. This an opportunity to ask more direct questions related to your child’s career interests.

With a dynamic panel and interactive expo-style format, families can ask questions, explore options

Tand engage in meaningful conversations about what comes next.

The event will spotlight high-growth sectors across Western Sydney, including tourism, construction, health, education, technology and AI - all offering exciting, future-focused career opportunities.

With over 150,000 businesses and one of Australia’s fastest-growing economies, Western Sydney is full of opportyunity and the time to explore it is now.

Careers of Today isn’t just about choosing a job. It’s about opening doors, expanding horizons and shaping a future full of opportunity.

Parents and students are encouraged to attend together for an evening of insight, inspiration and practical guidance. Secure your place today and start exploring what’s possible.

DETAILS

Date: Monday, 4 May 2026.

Venue: Novotel Sydney Parramatta, 350 Church Street, Parramatta.

Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

Panel forum: Commencing at: 4.15 pm.

Cost: $9.90 per family, including refreshments. Details and book: www.wexpo.com.au

New laws target high speed e-bikes

HE Road Transport Amendment (Non-registrable Motor Vehicles) Bill 2026 has been introduced to NSW Parliament, granting authorities power to seize and crush illegal e-bikes.

Targeting high-powered, throttle-operated devices behaving like motorbikes, the law aims to curb dangerous riding and rising injuries. Police and Transport officers will gain expanded enforcement

powers, supported by roadside dyno testing to detect bikes exceeding 25km/h limits. Based on Western Australia laws, NSW will also tighten regulations, including lower power limits and stricter stan-

dards. Authorities warn that non-compliant e-bikes—even if purchased unknowingly—can be confiscated permanently, urging parents and buyers to ensure devices meet legal requirements.

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ISSUE 61 | April 2026

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ECQ Outlet opens at Eastern Creek

FRASERS Property has opened ECQ Outlet at Eastern Creek Quarter

(ECQ) to become Greater Western Sydney’s newest dedicated outlet shopping destination, bringing the outlet experience closer to home for more than 1.2 million western Sydney residents.

The opening week featured a full lineup of events and activations, including a special ribbon-cutting to officially open the outlet at 9:30 am.

Across the week, guests enjoyed competitions, prizes and giveaways, an interactive photo booth, and a basket ball court activation where free throws unlock prizes, all set to the soundtrack of live DJ sets from ECQ Social - creating a vibrant program of experiences designed to bring the community together and mark the opening in style.

Shoppers can look forward to scoring incredible deals from some of Australia’s most loved brands. In an exciting first, ECQ Outlet will feature the largest ASICS outlet store in the country, making it a must-visit for runners, fitness fans and athleisure lovers alike.

Joining ASICS is a standout line-up of global and local favourites across all categories. These include Adidas, Fila, Puma, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hil-

figer, HOKA, Sketchers, New Balance, Country Road, Decjuba, Levi’s, 2XU, Miniso, La Cosmetique, Strand, Oroton, US Polo, Seafolly, Swarovski, Adairs, Sheridan and more. From performance sportswear and sneakers to everyday fashion, accessories, homewares and adventure gear, ECQ Outlet is set to be a one-stop destination for value-driven style.

A first for retail in NSW, Frasers Property worked with Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to develop the definition of ‘outlet retail at ECQ Outlet, which will see brands offer a minimum of 70% of

stock for sale discounted from its ordinary retail price or recommended retail price or stock manufactured specifically for outlet.

Another unique feature of ECQ Outlet is that the main thoroughfare has been designed with a generous width comparable to Sydney’s iconic Pitt Street Mall, creating a spacious, pedestrian-friendly environment that enhances the overall shopping experience.

With Sydney's newest outdoor dining and entertainment precinct, ECQ Outlet is also a place to sit back and relax in between shopping. Adding 18 new dining destinations spanning six distinct cuisines, nestled within an alfresco setting and vibrant community spaces. Offering a unique dining expe-

rience for the whole family, shoppers can enjoy a diverse mix of flavours from favourites like Iggy’s Frozen Bar, Kerbside Eatery, Café Capri and Flappy’s Fried Chicken.

For younger visitors, the precinct features iPlay, a dedicated kids’ play area designed for fun, adventure and safe exploration. Combined with the dining and retail offerings, ECQ Outlet delivers a complete family-friendly experience under one roof.

Strategically located at the intersection of the Great Western Highway and the M7 Motorway, the ECQ Outlet is accessible to customers from Greater Western Sydney and beyond.

Visit: www.easterncreekquarter.shopping/. Facebook: facebook.com/easterncreekquarter/

The Whitlams orchestrate a return

„ TONY BOSWORTH

ICONIC Australian band The Whitlams are bringing their signature blend of indie rock and orchestral grandeur to Western Sydney in May, teaming up with a specially assembled ensemble for a one-off performance at Rooty Hill’s Coliseum Theatre.

Frontman Tim Freedman said the upcoming show on May 2, billed as The Whitlams with Sydney Philharmonic, continues a long-running tradition of reimagining the band’s extensive catalogue with full orchestral backing - a concept that has evolved over more than two decades.

“We’ve played with over 20 different orchestras over the years,” Freedman said, noting that while the band has collaborated with major state ensembles such as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, this latest project takes a more bespoke approach.

Rather than working with an established orchestra, Freedman has assembled a group of leading Sydney-based classical musicians under the banner of the newly formed Sydney Philharmonic for the tour.

“It’s an orchestra that I’ve put together from the pool of great classical musicians in the Sydney area,” said Tim.

The ensemble has already per-

formed together in Newcastle, with the same conductor and most of the same players set to appear at Rooty Hill.

The origins of the idea date back to the early 2000s, when Richard Tognetti of the Australian Chamber Orchestra first suggested adapting some of The Whitlams’ songs for an orchestral setting. A 2004 commission in Perth marked the beginning of what has since become a recurring feature of the band’s live output.

Since then, the concept has expanded significantly.

“This is our fourth national tour with orchestras,” Freedman said. “And this is the most extensive we’ve done… we’re doing over 20 shows and going to

places like Newcastle and Toowoomba and of course Rooty Hill. So it’s expanding, which is exciting for us.”

Freedman said the orchestral arrangements have transformed many of the band’s songs beyond their original recordings. Early on, he took a hands-off approach, inviting composers to reinterpret the material. “They would come back with all these added melodies and textures,” he said. “That’s why the songs have sometimes changed so much from the album versions.”

The result is a dynamic live experience, with lesser-known tracks often undergoing the most dramatic reinvention, while hit songs are given a more expansive, “magnified” treatment.

The structure of the upcoming show reflects that balance. “The first half is quite atmospheric and poignant,” Freedman said. “And then the second half opens up and we play the hits and have some fun.”

For Tim Freedman, returning to Western Sydney carries added significance. “We used to play Western Sydney a lot around the turn of the century,” he said. “So I’m glad to be taking it back out there.”

The Rooty Hill performance is expected to draw both long-time fans and new audiences, as orchestral collaborations continue to broaden the reach of contemporary Australian music.

It’s a new school of thought

YOUNG people in Mount Druitt have a new opportunity to re-engage in education, with enrolments now open at a new school for students seeking a different way of learning and tailored support.

Life Without Barriers Education, a new fee-free school for students who have found the traditional school system challenging, is now taking enrolments at its Mount Druitt campus for students in years 7-to10.

Powered by Life Without Barriers, the non-government Special Assistance School is designed for students who have experienced some barriers in traditional school environments.

The new school encourages students to re-engage in education with flexible learning and a curriculum built to support their needs.

Supported by local PCYC facilities, Life Without Barriers Education offers small classes for young people in years 7, 8, 9 and 10 who have disengaged – or are at risk of disengaging - from traditional schooling and are seeking:

• Tailored support and interventions.

• More social and emotional support at school.

AUSTRALIAN Catholic University (ACU) has ranked number one in Australia and in the top 20 globally for theology in the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject, while ACU’s philosophy discipline was ranked in the nation’s

• A targeted literacy and numeracy education.

Life Without Barriers Education’s Executive Director of Education, Dale Murray, said every young person deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive and nurturing environment.

“In some cases, traditional schools just haven’t

top 10, entering the top 100 globally. In the Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies rankings, ACU jumped four places to number 18 in the world – its highest ever global ranking, and a milestone for academic excellence and global impact. ACU’s Philosophy

quite been the right fit for some students with complex social and emotional needs,” Mr Murray said.

“After all, our communities are diverse and no one model works for everyone. For students who need something different, we offer those students a learning community that supports their development and wellbeing.

“Our Mount Druitt campus will support around 15 students in a flexible learning environment built on respect, safety, participation, and belonging.”

Life Without Barriers Education has also opened campuses in Newcastle, Dubbo and Grafton, which are now open for business and taking a limited number of enrolments for 2026.

Under the leadership of Life Without Barriers Education principal Chris Harris, dedicated teachers and youth workers support students at each school campus.

“Many of the young people who are joining us haven’t stopped wanting to learn, they have just struggled to do so in environments that didn’t work for them,” Mr Harris said.

Visit: www.lwbe.edu.au

program made its first appearance in the prestigious rankings, debuting at number 9 in Australia, and within the top 51 – 100 universities worldwide. Faculty of Theology and Philosophy Executive Dean Professor Richard Colledge said that this

marked the fifth successive year that ACU had led the nation in the field of theology and religious studies. The QS World University Rankings by Subject are based on academic reputation, employer reputation and research citations.

DESIGNING BLACKTOWN’S CBD FOR THE FUTURE Community-led or imposed project?

„ STEPHEN BALI

IT’S obvious that today’s Blacktown Central Business District (CBD) does not suit or match the needs of an aspirational community.

Ours is a community which boasts one of the most multicultural communities in Australia (188 cultures); fast growing population that as a local government area will surpass the size of Tasmania by 2037; and economic activity measured by Gross Regional Product exceeding $26B making it larger than 78 (out of 218) countries in the world.

Designing and delivering a transformative CBD is complex and requires multidisciplinary framework to deliver connectivity, safety, environmental sustainable, educational, accommodation, entertainment and commercial needs that incorporate the aspirations and needs of future generations. Practical planning must be sensitively balanced incorporating Dharug culture and protecting local historically significant buildings.

As locals we see, live and deal with the challenges and real issues confronting us and that is why a community-lead revitalization of our CBD is needed and not one that is imposed on us.

Designing a new CBD is not just a matter of creating artistic imagery with a selling pitch espousing large numbers such as construction costs of $2B that will generate 4,500 jobs and $1B local economic growth. These figures sound great but are unaudited and may not be reflective of the real needs and aspirations of our community.

Soon councillors will be presented amendments to the Blacktown Devel-

opment Control Plan (BDCP) which set out the future requirements for parking, traffic, street planning, potential buildings and environmental considerations.

The draft BDCP has created three sub-precincts within the one Blacktown CBD. The first precinct is the Westpoint shopping precinct. The second is referred to as the Blacktown Quarter comprising the recent controversial sale of council land to Walker Corporation, Blacktown Workers Club and Colo Lane car park. The third precinct is the remaining CBD which is left to its own slow decaying orbit of discount shops and deteriorating buildings.

Council should bring together a cohesive BDCP strategy, to provide the impetus that developments will be assessed against, in delivering our masterplan objective.

Three precinct approach

The significance of the BDCP document cannot be understated as courts will be settling disputes between developers and council regarding scale, scope and parking requirements as specified in the plan.

The BDCP is a futuristic vision where future generations will be living in a CBD that we designed. Will they be truly happy with what we have planned in meeting their aspirations, or did the BDCP create lacklustre developments or questionable environments that no one wants to visit because our BDCP represented some vague, ill-considered document?

The draft BDCP focuses on the second precinct (the Blacktown Quarter) and ignores the rest; with radical changes to road networks and massive reductions to parking requirements.

How will a court interpret a dispute

between council (on behalf of the community) and a developer to delivery adequate parking spaces when the proposed BDCP identifies the minimum requirement to be zero?

Public consultation on BDCP took place at the same time as the proposed controversial council rate increase. There was no council led open community discussion.

Walker Corporation undertook ‘a select the box’ 4-minute online survey, some pop-up stalls, and encouraging feedback via the chance to win vouchers or food giveaways. Council undertook limited participation sessions where participants were forced to sign confidentiality agreements, or you could not participate.

Artist impressions and montages are presented to entice acceptance, but these images rarely reflect what is built.

In developing a CBD to match the aspirations of tomorrow, we need to consider a nighttime economic strategy; safety planning; enabling technology incorporating a smart city framework; identifying how heritage significant buildings can be incorporated into a modern CBD; where and how people will live; traffic and parking strategies.

Create opportunities

We need a community driven game changing transformative rethink of Blacktown CBD to meet and create future opportunities.

This is why we need insightful consultation and community led planning.

Blacktown Council has unfortunately rejected a collaborative and joint exercise approach with the State Government to design a city of the future in a similar manner as was undertaken with the new Bradfield City Centre Master

Plan, or the Barangaroo development precinct strategy.

The new Blacktown CBD must be designed so it is highly sustainable, incorporating an inclusive society with well thought-out town square, green corridors, our Dharug culture, water recycling initiatives and renewable energy solutions.

We need traffic and parking studies and holistic reports considering all elements to deliver a 22nd century metropolis.

I was proud, as mayor (2014-19), to lead Blacktown Council to be the first council in Australia to incorporate smart pole electric car recharging (2017) and introducing free CBD Wi-Fi access (2016); but we now need to consider embedding world-class digital infrastructure to support autonomous transport, smart buildings, and seamless connectivity.

We are not just building another western Sydney suburban town, we are creating a dynamic environment that will support a liveable, healthy, vibrant and inclusive city supported by jobs, innovation, and entertainment for generations to come.

We have a once-in-a-century opportunity to rebuild a city, leveraging world-class technology, sustainable urban design within the framework of accessibility regardless of your health, wealth or where you are from.

Stephen Bali is State Member for Blacktown and Parliamentary Secretary for Planning and Public Spaces. Have your say at Blacktown News Facebook page.

Patient safety in public hospitals

PATIENTS, families and carers across NSW are being encouraged to speak up through the new “Raise It” program, designed to improve patient safety in public hospitals.

Led by NSW Health, the initiative recognises that loved ones often notice early signs when a patient’s condition is worsening and empowers them to act quickly.

The program introduces a simple three-step process: talk to a nurse or doctor, ask for a Clinical Review if concerns remain, and call a new statewide hotline (1800 777 333) for immediate support from a senior health worker.

This streamlined approach replaces the former REACH program, aiming to provide clearer, faster escalation pathways.

“Raise It” was developed

following a review triggered by the 2024 death of Joe Massa, with input from healthcare professionals, stakeholders and families. It forms part of broader reforms, including hospital system reviews and strengthened patient care processes.

The program will be supported by a statewide awareness campaign, with information available in hospitals, translated into 16 languages, and tailored for Aboriginal communities. Health officials say the initiative strengthens collaboration between patients and clinicians, ensuring concerns are heard and acted on quickly.

Ultimately, “Raise It” aims to create a culture where speaking up is encouraged, helping deliver safer, more responsive care across NSW’s public health system.

Expert calls for free public transport

LEADING mental health advocate Professor Ian Hickie is urging the NSW Government to make public transport free, warning rising fuel costs and shortages risk pushing Australians back into isolation. He says barriers to

travel could disrupt daily routines, reduce social interaction and worsen mental health—echoing the impacts seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Research highlights the importance of consistent schedules, sleep patterns and social connection

for wellbeing. Free public transport, he argues, would help people stay connected to work, school and community, protecting mental health and preventing long-term social and psychological harm.

Community Connections March 2026

CEO Message

Elfa Moraitakis, CEO

Building Australia Through Inclusion, Not Division

In recent months I have spent a great deal of time listening to the diverse voices across Western Sydney. I am hearing anxiety about safety, fairness and belonging, but I am also hearing something else; a deep concern about the way migrants are once again being blamed for the pressures facing our country.

As someone who leads a multicultural organisation and as the daughter and granddaughter of migrants, I find it hard to stay silent on this. Migration is not Australia’s weakness. It is one of our greatest strategic advantages. Our future living standards depend on a strong workforce, new skills, innovation and the care economy that supports older Australians. Migration is what has helped this country age with dignity and stability. To suggest that shutting the door will somehow make Australia stronger is not only misleading but it risks making all of us worse off. But this debate is not just about economics. It is about who we are.

More than half of Australians were either born overseas or have a parent who was. Migration has shaped our society, our culture and our identity.

Western Sydney demonstrates this every daycommunities living, working and raising children together across cultures, languages and faiths.

When migrants are targeted in public debate, it is not abstract. It lands on real families. It lands on children who are told - directly or indirectly - that they do not quite belong and those wounds last far longer than a news cycle.

In my role, I see every day the determination of families who came here seeking safety, opportunity and a future for their children. I see the contributions they make not just economically, but socially and culturally. But I also see the risk when trust erodes. When people feel excluded or targeted they can only withdraw from civic life. That weakens not only social cohesion, but our democracy. Western Sydney is proof that diversity can work; not perfectly, but powerfully. Our task now is to protect that success, not undermine it. Australia’s future prosperity will not be secured by fear or division. It will be secured by courage. The courage to tell the truth about migration, to invest in inclusion, and to recognise that our diversity is not something to manage, but something to value. It is not a deficit but a strength.

I want to remain hopeful because every day I see communities choosing connection over division. And finally we need to realise that we cannot build Australia’s future by blaming the very people who are helping to build it.

We’re Hiring! Disability Support Workers

Join Our Team - Be the difference in someone’s life every day

Join us as a Disability Support Worker and make a difference daily. We offer: full training, flexible hours, competitive pay, and • a supportive team.

Click here to apply now or contact info@sydwestms.org.au or 9621-6633.

Know someone perfect for this role?

Please share this opportunity with them.

For International Women’s Day, the Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium (WSRSC) and SSI celebrated women’s strength from multicultural and refugee backgrounds in Western Sydney. The event focused on women’s voices, community leadership, and advocacy for fairer systems.

WSRSC highlighted stories from new arrivals and CALD communities, showing the power of collaboration in achieving gender equality and to balance the scales for women everywhere.

Exciting news for library visitors

„ BRAD BUNTING

IHAVE great news for the many people who visit Marsden Park Temporary Library – Council is opening the library more often.

Our community has fallen in love with the library and its children’s activities since it opened in 2024, and has asked for more.

I am pleased we can meet this request. The library has a new day of operation, Fridays, from 10 am to 6 pm.

Hours have been extended on Saturdays to 9 am to 2 pm, while Wednesday hours remain 10 am to 6 pm.

Marsden Park is Sydney’s second largest growth area and deserves a larger, full service library.

Council is unable to fund one because of 2012 legislation that restricts spending developer levy funds on community infrastructure.

I am making the case to the NSW Government that it is time to amend this rule so people can receive services they deserve.

Council is also working to secure funds for a larger, full service library.

Honouring the women of Blacktown City

I enjoyed congratulating Blacktown

City’s Woman of the Year as part of Council’s International Women’s Day celebrations in March.

SydWest Multicultural Services CEO Elfa Moraitakis received the honour for expanding the reach of the organisation. This is the second time Elfa has won this award, a credit to her commitment to our community.

I also congratulated Council staff winner Farideh Bahrami, Director of Kids’ Early Learning Seven Hills East Centre

Farideh is a mentor for colleagues and her leadership has played an important role in the centre exceeding the national quality standards rating.

I hope we can recognise the work of outstanding women in our community throughout the year and provide equal opportunity for recognition and reward.

Wishing you a peaceful Easter

We are almost one third of the way through the year and I would like to wish Blacktown News readers a happy and safe Easter break.

I hope you are able to spend time doing what you enjoy and be with those you love most.

The school holidays often lead many of us to go travelling and enjoy the great outdoors.

If you are driving, please keep to

the speed limit and don’t drive after drinking alcohol.

Let’s do our best to have an Easter holidays we all enjoy.

Statement in response SBS not to proceed with offices in Western Sydney

This outcome is disappointing for Blacktown City, and for the people of Western Sydney.

SBS should be in Western Sydney, and Blacktown City, with one of the most diverse communities in the country, would be a great home for such an important national institution.

Blacktown City is home to a vibrant

and growing community of 450,000 people speaking more than 180 languages.

We understand the budget pressures facing the Federal Government, and we are ready to work with the Minister on future opportunities to bring SBS to where it belongs, here in Western Sydney.

The fact the Government invested in exploring this proposal shows the case is there, and the case for a stronger national presence in Western Sydney remains clear. We see this as a ‘not now’ decision, not a ‘not ever’ decision.”

Meet our fluffiest arrival: 22.

The Chifley Community Media Project (CCMP) is student-driven media channel produced as a printed and digital newspaper, circulating throughout Western Sydney. This unique venture is produced in partnership with the Western Sydney Chifley Schools network and the Blacktown News, Blacktown’s leading local media source. All content is contributed by students of the Chifley Schools network and subject to professional editing and design standards. Submit feedback to info@accessnews.com.au

Edition 5 | April 2026 Online edition is hosted permanently at www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au

Community Media Project Expands

WESTERN Sydney's premier student - led news publishing initiative is expanding. The Bidwill Community project has evolved to now become the Chifley Community Media Project, talking in all five schools in the Western Sydney Chifley Network - Bidwill, Mount Druitt, Dunheved, Shalvey and Senior Campus. For the first time, students from five schools will be writing articles and taking photos about school activities, local people and initiatives and

submitting these for publication in a dedicated section, which is published quarterly in the Blacktown News. Each school has lent passionate support for this ground breaking project, making it unique in the Australian school education system. You'll find each school has its own dedicated section inside. We hope you enjoy reading the section as much we enjoyed putting it together.

Michael Walls, Group PublisherCommunity Broadcast Network.

Agriculture uplift at Bidwill Campus

„ BY LILLY SOWARD AND KYRA WATKINS-SWEET YEAR 10 AGRICULTURE STUDENTS

HAVE you been wondering what is being constructed at Chifley College, Bidwill school farm?

Bidwill was successful in applying for funding for an Agriculture building that houses a classroom, workshop and storage areas. The building is located over the exact same footprint as two old tin sheds that served as our main storage area for many decades.

Our school put in an application to the Federal Government’s - Schools Upgrade Fund Round 2, in December of 2023. The College was granted a total of $7M across the five campuses with Bidwill’s share of the funding bucket being $1.2M. Funding was formally announced by Minister Jason Claire and our local member Ed Husic mid-2024.

The real, on the ground, work commenced at the beginning of August. Just as the digging began, so did the rain, resulting in a few delays to construction.

But the weather was kind for most of the build and by the end of December the Department took “delivery” of our new facility. School staff were working hard over the Christmas break moving all of our equipment into its new home and preparing the new classroom, ready for the new year.

The building has a dedicated chemical store for fuels and farm chemicals and two general storerooms for the range of agricultural equipment used to teach Agriculture.

Our tractors are now stored out of the weather in a workshop that allows us to complete tasks under cover. Most importantly, we have a new classroom on the Ag site where we can link the practical and theory learning.

The school has also enhanced the building construction by funding a few changes on the farm site.

Our vegetable plot has been upgraded, with new raised garden beds and a new fence across the front of the plot. Over the past term we have worked hard at filling our new garden beds with a range of new vegetables and learning valuable skills along the way.

And our paddocks along Daniels Rd have been refenced. A solid gravel drive has been added to the central corridor that allows our cattle and

sheep solid footing during wet weather. We have also improved drainage in the stock yards and looked at improving the ground surfaces. As we move into

Autum and Winter, our stock is benefiting from a millet crop grown over the warmer months, with an additional 2 paddocks being prepared for winter oats and wheat.

Agriculture has been taught at Chifley Bidwill since its opening in 1977 and our school has gained a reputation for the high standard of agricultural education delivery.

The school has performed at the highest level in Apiary competition at Sydney Royal Show and regularly takes out champion trophies for produce and display at Penrith Show.

Our farm is also actively involved in providing quality produce like honey and vegetables to our local community. We have developed partnerships with our local Woolworth’s and second chance food providers to recycle green waste and encourage sustainability in agricultural development.

We look forward to many more year of Agricultural education supported by our new facilities.

Celebrating our Aboriginal Culture

„ BY ALLARIA COBBAN (YR 9), INDIANA MORRIS (YR8), KAMIRA TOWNEY (YR 9), SUMMER MORRIS (YR 9) AND HARMONY

AT Chifley College Bidwill Campus, there is a strong focus on the cultures of all our students. It is a cause for celebration and recognition, as the unique blend of backgrounds and beliefs combined make up the identity of our school and community.

Learning at our school takes place on Dharug land, where learning has happened for thousands of years.

Our connection to country and recognition of the culture each of our 195 Aboriginal students is easily to see in the murals, yarning circle, physical spaces and recognition in every classroom, event and celebration. Our school ensures that our every student feels valued and safe.

We are Aboriginal girls from various year groups who attend Bidwill Campus.

We are very lucky to have our

own cultural space, The Bunya Room, that we can go to.

It’s a place where we feel safe and comfortable, it’s a place that brings us together for sharing, caring and getting to know each other. We feel

safe and valued her at Bidwill.

The Bunya Room is open every day, before school, recess and lunch time. Its good to know that we can “have a feed” there if needed.

Most of us bring our own, but

enjoy sitting and eating together.

Bidwill Campus offers a lot of various and different programs such as Sista Speak, KARI, PCYC Fit for life and to learn Aboriginal Dance while learning the meaning of dance and the stories told through dance.

Some of us hop on the atttendace bus, a service run by Bidwill Campus and Bidwill Public School, which gets us to school in time for the Sista Sista roll call.

Being in roll call is important because its where we are marked “Present” for the day and given any information on the day’s activities and programs. We can have breakfast in the Bunya Room if we need to before we go to roll call.

Next term we’ll start working on new dances to perform at our NAIDOC assembly.

With upcoming events, some of us will be involved in an Oz Tag competition which is organised by Mt Druitt Police. While others will be involved with the UTS leadership program that runs throughout the rest of the year.

We are very fortunate as a school to be invited to a variety of culturally specific excursions and programs throughout the year, recognising and celebration our culture.

Multicultural Day at Chifley Bidwill

„ BY 2026 SCHOOL CAPTAINS: JEROME TAMALA & JANELLE MAPUILESUA

ON March 19 2026, Chifley College Bidwill Campus came alive with music and laughter as students, staff, families, and the wider community gathered to celebrate our annual Multicultural Day.

From the moment the gates opened, the school was packed full of energy and pride. Smiles everywhere. Students wore traditional clothing, families participated in activities, and the loud cheers from the community created a sense of belonging that was felt by everyone present.

Multicultural Day is more than just an event. It’s the one day every year where students from all different cultures are able to represent their cultures loud and proud. It’s a day to celebrate who we are, where we come from, and the diversity within our community.

Each performance, activity, laugh and smile told a story of connection and understanding. It served as a reminder to everyone that, even though we come from different backgrounds, we can come together as one to celebrate our similarities and differences without judgement.

Cultural Performances that Touched the Community

The performances throughout the day showcased the incredible talents of the students. From the graceful Samoan Siva to the Catchy Tongan faiva,

each act shared a story of pride, giving everyone a chance to watch in awe.

The East Timorese group took a different approach. Instead of dancing themselves, they decided to make it an interactive performance where anyone could dance no matter the skill level. What began as a small group of participants quickly grew as more students, staff, and community members joined in. Laughter and enjoyment filled the courts as everyone took a step and listened to the instructions of the East Timorese group.

The final Year 12 performance was especially powerful, concluding with a traditional Samoan Taupou performance led by Meline Tafili.

“ At that moment, it all became real. The practices, the arguing and the tireless perfecting all came together. I thought to myself, if we’re going to leave, let’s leave with a bang, and we did just that. I’m proud of our year group, I’ll definitely miss it but we did it!! - Anonymous Year 12 student.

Community Engagement: Strengthening Our Connections

Strong involvement from the wider community was a key playmaker in the success of this year's Multicultural day. Families, local groups, and community members didn’t just attend, they connected, participated and shared each other's cultures revealing the diversity within our school and community. It created an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone felt com fortable, valued and supported.

Walls were broken, barriers crumbled, and mutual respect and understanding was built.

From sharing traditional food and experiences, to participating in other cultural dances. The willingness to learn about other cultures added warmth, authenticity and unity.

Student Leadership and Dedication on Display

One of the most memorable aspects of Multicultural Day 2026 was the strong student support that helped to shape the event. This time around, the event was more student-led than ever before, highlighting the confidence in student capability and accountability. For the first time in four years, students took on the role of the MCs, leading the event with pride and energy. From their energetic and enthusiastic entrance dance to the zumba ice breaker,

Smiling faces. One, two, three jumps. Behind the scenes of each smiling kid was a remarkable student full of determination and dedication. Staying back after school, waking up early for morning practices, recess and lunch practices were sacrifices each student made. This level of commitment not only reflected their passion for their culture but also the respect they have for those organising the event and its importance.

Every performance on the day didn’t magically appear, it was the result of hard work. Their effort and determination paid off.

The Hard Work Behind the Celebration

Behind every smile and every performance was countless hours of planning and dedication. The Wellbeing Team, Demelza Peto, Lauren Parsons, and Samantha Micallef. Words can not express how tirelessly this team worked to support students, staff, and leaders, making sure the event ran smoothly. Equally important to the day's success was the Executive Team. Through countless meetings, approvals and crucial planning, they made decisions that shaped Multicultural Day. Without their support and leadership, the event wouldn’t have been possible. Their hard work behind the scenes created the base on which the day's celebration could be a success.

The 2026 School Leaders also showed huge dedication Alongside the Wellbeing Team, they organised practice times, helped students learn dances, and coordinated uniforms, and supported students during performances, all while managing their own Year 12 responsibilities.

Their leadership, patience, and care were present in every part of the day, making sure students felt confident, prepared, and included.

A Lasting Impact:

Multicultural day 2026 will forever be a day engraved not only in the memories of the leaving cohort but also those who experienced the day firsthand. It was more than just performances and celebrations, it was a reminder of the strength that comes from diversity and unity. Students were given the chance to express who they are with confidence, families were able to see their cultures represented with pride, and the school community came together in a way that truly reflected what Chifley College Bidwill Campus stands for.

Multicultural Day 2026 was not just a celebration of culture, but a celebration of belonging, leadership, and community.

It reminded everyone present that no matter our background, language, or culture, we all have a place within the school community. The pride shown on the day will continue to inspire future students, ensuring that the spirit of Multicultural Day lives on for years to come.

SHALVEY’S AGRICULTURE CLUB Our cows at the Easter Show

„ BY JELANI-LEE MATHIESON AND ALEXANDER WILLIAMS- YEAR 9

THE Chifley College Shalvey Campus’ Agriculture Club will be showcasing their cows at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The animals will be led by the talented and well-trained students from the Year 10 Agriculture elective class and the students in the school’s Agriculture Club.

This year, they are taking four cows from the 11 on the farm to the show. The four cows they will be taking, in order of size, are Vader, Vegas, Vesper and Vulcan.

What they generally do on the farm is not for everyone. There is a lot of cleaning, feeding, watering and grooming. There is shearing to be done when their hair gets too long, a weight management plan to adjust how much feed is needed to be fed to the cows based on their size, and did we mention cleaning?

Not only do they clean the animals, but the farm needs to be cleaned up from all the cow patties left everywhere. These are often 2-3 people jobs as the animal needs to be handled in a calm and respectful

way, while their needs are being tended to. These day-to day routines help the team with preparing for The Show.

There is a program to prepare nine months in advance, sending the cows to a feeding farm to help them to gain or lose weight, and adjusting their food to their specific needs.

Once at The Show, all entrants weigh and scan their cows in a betting area, and then fully wash the cows as there is a heavy amount of sawdust which sticks to them.

The cows are donned with fancy leather harnesses and brass chains, then sprayed with a special gloss to make their coat shinier, which helps the judges to see their muscle placement. This helps the judges identify which cows will produce the best cuts of meat and will be awarded a ribbon in their category.

Shalvey’s Agriculture Team all agree that the animals are very difficult to take care of before and after The Show as there are many logistics to consider getting the cow’s weight to the optimal level, putting them on a rigorous program and implementing all the elements to ensure the cows reach and maintain the weight. And this can all be set back when a cow gets sick as it messes it all up.

The Ag Farm at Chifley College Shalvey Campus used to have goats, but at the moment there are sheep, chicken and cows.

The sheep are very cautious compared to the goats. Mrs Mathieu, the Agriculture teacher, strongly recommends students join the Agricultural Team to come out and help take care of the animals.

She says it is not difficult to do, they mostly use pre-planning to feed animals based on how much they need and if you don’t mind the smell, the cleaning is relaxing and therapeutic after a long day of learning at school.

What the Chifley College Shalvey Campus Agriculture Club basically does is look after the animals’ health and the actual farm. They work with the animals by feeding them daily, grooming them and catering to the animals’ needs.

As a result, it helps with our student’s practical skills, independence with raising animals, improves their wellbeing and embraces their caring nature.

Isaac, a member of the Agriculture Club, said, “It’s fun to get outdoors and helps us appreciate where our food comes from. I like learning about what the world has given us to survive.”

Only a handful of students get the opportunity each year to be part of the Show Team. Let’s hope they seize the moo-ment and bring home a couple of blue ribbons. There is a lot at steak!

ALL’S WELL ON WEDNESDAYS There’s no winner or loser

„ BY AMBER LEHNER-CAIRNS, CASSANDRA KITCHEN AND EMMA HOLLAND

DURING Term 1 Chifley College Shalvey Campus held its first ‘Wellbeing Wednesday' session.

Wellbeing Wednesday consists of various sports like oz tag, table tennis, netball, handball, basketball and soccer.

It all started when Shalvey’s Wellbeing faculty sent out a survey to get a deeper dive on students' thoughts and opinions about what could change in their school regarding mental health. Ms Poullos, the Head Teacher of Wellbeing, developed the idea of ‘Wellbeing Wednesdays’ based on the students’ desire for extra activities during break time.

The purpose of Wellbeing Wednesdays is not only to have fun at break but also to strengthen the bond between teachers and students as well as building team spirit for our school.

Every week on Wednesday, a different teacher with a different strength in certain sports will run an activity during break time and encourage everyone to participate to the best of their best ability.

There is no experience, skill level or pre-requirements necessary, students can just turn and participate with their teachers and peers.

Wellbeing Wednesdays are also a good way to get kids active and improve their health and fitness outside of their class.

Teachers have commented on the benefit of the initiative for both students and staff as it gives students something to do during break times so they can get exercise without feeling excluded or judged.

It is a good way for students to clear their heads before class so they are more settled for learning, and it creates a calm space inside and outside of the classroom as not only are people making new connections and getting busy during break, but they are also getting rid of the extra energy that causes them to lose focus in class.

Wellbeing staff member, Tori, the Aboriginal Education Officer, offered her perspective on Wellbeing Wednesdays. “I think it's a good opportunity to bring students and staff together, build trust and blow off steam”.

Students who participated in the Wellbeing Wednesday netball session had only positive comments to say. Ruby, a Year 9 student, said, “I thought it was very fun, social and inclusive.”

Anahera and Waimarie from Year 9 agreed, “It was pretty fun but maybe next time to make it more fun, they could play music.”

The Wellbeing team took this feedback on board, and the next Wednesday, there was music being played while the students engaged in a game of basketball.

This concept is growing in numbers and popularity. New friendships are being formed each week and

Shalvey’s future is in safe hands

„ BY KELEISHA ASHTON AND MARY FITZGIBBON- YEAR 9

THIS term, students at Chifley College Shalvey Campus recently had their Year Eight and Nine Student Representative Council (SRC) elections where a selection of our finest Year 8 and 9 students stood up in front of their peers to bravely give a one-to-three minute speech, explaining why they would make a great leader and persuading the cohort to vote for them.

Afterwards, all students from Years 8 and 9 voted for their respective year group leaders who they believe fit the criteria as a safe, respectful learner.

To be eligible to be a part of the SRC at Chifley College Shalvey Campus, students must have no negative referrals for learning, behaviour, respect or safety, have excellent attendance and wear their uniform with pride. Students who fit these criteria had to fill out a self-nomination form which needed the signatures of two members of staff supporting their application.

Once completed the nominees were mentored by the Year 10 school leaders to help them write speeches to persuade the audience, explain the roles and responsibilities of the job and encourage them through the process.

At Chifley College Shalvey Campus students demonstrated school spirit in every way possible, and it was on display on Election Day with 14 speakers given the floor to address their peers.

The audience showed respect for their potential leaders by actively listening, keeping an open-mind and using their vote wisely to ensure their voice helped the most deserving candidate be elected.

This was pressed upon them by Ms Morrison, the SRC Co-ordinator at Chifley College Shalvey Campus, who explained the importance of

democracy and how individuals can use their vote to make changes to improve their lives, just like they will do once they are of legal voting age and have their say in Local, State and Federal elections in the future.

While every country’s democratic process has its own unique features, Chifley College Shalvey Campus’ SRC voting process mirrors the Australian Federal Electoral process by using the Preferential Voting System.

This voting system involves students marking a number from 1, their first choice, all the way up to the number of candidates in preferential order.

These are counted and votes are transferred between candidates according to the preferences until there are outright winners.

Once elected to the SRC, the representatives act as the official voice of the student body, serving as a vital bridge between students and school executives.

Their primary responsibility is to advocate for students’ needs while fostering a positive school culture through various initiatives and events.

Student voice in schools refers to students having a genuine, active role in the decision-making processes that affect them. They are listened to, valued, and actions are taken to create noticeable change.

Congratulations to the elected 2026 SRC representatives for Years 8 and 9 at Chifley College Shalvey Campus: Tania, Amani, Cohen, Riyansha Patricia, Keleisha, Cassandra, Mary, Hunter and Rachel.

The students and staff look forward to seeing you represent the school with pride, act as ambassadors and advocates for the student body, focus on building school spirit and ensuring that all student voices reach the school executive.

Meet our newest (and fluffiest) arrival!

STUDENTS across Dunheved Campus have been buzzing with excitement following the recent arrival of an adorable baby alpaca, born right here on the school farm.

Alpacas are fascinating animals that originate from South America. They are part of the camelid family, which also includes camels and llamas.

Domesticated around 6,000 to 7,000 years ago, alpacas have played a crucial role in supporting the economies of Andean communities. Today, there are an estimated 3.5 to 4 million alpacas worldwide.

Known for their calm and generally non-aggressive nature, alpacas are quiet, intelligent, and often quite curious. However, they can show defensive behaviours such as spitting, kicking, or biting—especially during feeding time, when protecting their young, or when asserting dominance within their group.

Their diet mainly consists of grass, hay, and high-quality, fibre-rich pellets.

On March 1st, one of our school alpacas, Sugar-Pie, gave birth to a healthy and very fluffy cria (baby alpaca). The newborn was named Kerry Al-Packer. Although students are still unsure whether Kerry is male or female, one thing is certain - this little alpaca has already captured the hearts of the entire school community and quickly become a much-loved member of campus life.

Kerry and Sugar-Pie live in a well-maintained enclosure measuring approximately 90 square metres, with fencing around 3 metres high.

The enclosure includes a large shed in the corner, providing a dry and safe place for the alpacas during bad weather. The ground is covered in grass, with a shade tree offering relief on hot days, and fresh water is always

PULSE ALIVE IS A NIGHT That you’ll never forget

THE moment you step into Pulse Alive, the atmosphere is electric. Music pulses through the air, light dances across the crowd, and excitement grows in every corner of the stadium.

It isn’t just an event; it is an experience that brings people together in a vibrant celebration of sound, color, and energy. The performances are lively and entertaining, keeping the audience engaged and eager for more.

One of the highlights of the night is definitely the food. From the very first bite, it is clear that every dish is prepared. There is a wide variety of food trucks available, and everything tastes absolutely mouth-watering, offering a variety of flavours that satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Whether it is sweet treats or savoury snacks, the food adds to the overall enjoyment and gives students from the choir and dance a chance to relax and recharge before the magnificent, energetic performance.

As the show begins, the stage lights up with dazzling colours and creative performances. The show is bright and entertaining, filled with impressive visuals

and energetic acts that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

The Massed Choir was truly astonishing, filling the venue with powerful and harmonious voices that give the entire audience goosebumps.

Their performance is made even more exciting by the dancers, who move in perfect sync with the sensitive and emotional voices of the choir in the background.

The combination of singing and dancing creates a dynamic and unforgettable show that captured everyone’s attention and emotions.

But what truly makes Pulse Alive unforgettable is the connection between the performers and audience. As the Mass Choir sings, their voices filled the venue with powerful, affective voices that carry deep emotion. It isn’t about hearing the music; it is about feeling it.

Each lyric seems to tell a story, and the meaning behind the song resonates with everyone listening.

The Dancers add another layer of expression, turning the sound into movement. Their performanc-

es were both graceful and powerful, visually bringing the music to life. Every step and gesture reflected the emotion of the songs, making it impossible to look away.

Looking around at the audience during the performance, you can see how deeply people are affected. Faces were lit not only by the stage lights but also by the energetic and emotional singing and dancing. Some were smiling, others looked thoughtful, and a few are clearly moved.

Everyone seems completely engaged and entertained; drawn into the moment. It was as if the crowd wasn’t just watching the performance but becoming part of it.

Pulse Alive shows that music is more than just sound. It carries meaning, emotion, and connection. Through the voices of the choir and the movement of the dancers, the event creates something truly powerful.

This is an extremely shared experience that brings the community together in a way that words alone can’t describe.

Liking our Soccer Social Club

„ BY TALYSHA JOHNSON - YR 9

Chifley College Dunheved Campus - Girls Soccer Team Captain

SOCCER Social Club is a community full of peers who are eager to show skills, get to know one another and play their favourite sport.

For me Soccer Social Club means a lot. Amazing teachers, peers, interests and a lot more. It also means to me that I have a welcoming club who can help not just me but others too.

When I first heard about the club, I decided to join it because it could improve my skills. Not only that but it also brings smiles to our faces.

In our sessions, Mr Prasad, Mr Rodriguez and Mr Milford do a warmup to get everyone ready for the session.

Next we do our stretches and then get into a circle and then we get asked a social question to connect

and get to know each other more. Then we go to the seats, and Mr Prasad arranges us into teams.

After that is finished, we play a game. After the game, we join into a huddle, everyone puts their hands in and we do our chant, Dunheved on 3.

What I mostly like about Soccer Social Club is my community. They support me in every way. Soccer Social Club also enhances my skills, fitness and confidence.

Not only that it builds my friendships with others. Soccer Social Club can do a lot for kids. It’s amazing and can also be good with your mental health, physical health and wellbeing. Every Monday is when it takes place. That's why Mondays shall and will always be my favourite day.

I personally love Soccer Social Club as it brings my true self out. I couldn’t be more grateful to participate in it. I am looking forward to future sessions for the rest of this year and next year in Year 10. Thank you for allowing me to write this.

Opportuntiy to develop new skills

„ BY MARTN ALHAZKA - YR 8

SOCCER Social Club is a place where people can connect and socialise through soccer.

To me, Soccer Social Club is more than just a club, it’s a second home. Every student is welcomed regardless of age, gender, race or skill level.

I joined Soccer Social Club because I love the sport in general and I saw it as an opportunity to have fun while developing my skills.

We usually do drills and stretching exercises for the first 10 to 15 minutes of the session. Then we split into two teams and play a game of soccer or we do a three team tournament for the rest of the session.

I like that they provide gear for the students who may not have them such as boots, shin pads and soccer socks.

I find that my soccer skills have enhanced since

joining Soccer Social Club, mainly as a defender and goalkeeper.

Soccer Social Club allows me to meet new people that might share the same interests as me.

I found out through the social question part of the session that other students also go for the same team as me, Up Liverpool!! Everyone in Soccer Social Club is friendly and cheers you on.

They praise you for good plays and don’t make fun of you for bad plays. I really enjoy Soccer Social Club and actually wish it ran for more days.

Overall, I feel as if Soccer Social Club really became a part of my life and who I am. I would like to thank Mr Prasad, Mr Rodriguez and Mr Milford for organising and running this club and for the efforts in planning the drills for each session.

If you enjoy soccer and want to build skills and make new friends, I don’t see a reason why not to join the club. Soccer Social Club is a positive part of my life.

Why I love Mindless Self Indulgence

„ BY SKYE

MINDLESS Self Indulgence is a punk rock electric band and was co-founded by James Uringer (his stage name is Jimmy Urine) and his brother Markus Uringer. It was co-founded back in 1997.

The people in the band were Jimmy (main singer), his brother Markus (lead guitarist) and Steve Montano (second guitarist) and Kitty (drummer).

The first album they made was, ‘Tight’ back on April 20th, 1999. The songs in the album are the same remastered songs in the ‘Tighter’ album, made on April 26th, 2011.

After a few years, Markus Eringer left the band and brought in Vanessa YT but in 2001 Vanessa left the band and brought in Lyn-Z.

This band is my personal favourite band, for their crazy, chaotic and awesome songs. I personally like the ‘IF’ album, which features the songs “Never Wanted to Dance” “Prescription” “Revenge” “Evening Wear” “On It” “Issues” “Lights Out” “Get It Up” “Animal” “Mastermind” “Money” “Pay For It” “Bomb This Track” “Due” and “Mark David Chapmen” which has 15 songs.

These songs are all posted on the Mindless Self Indulgence channel which you can listen to.

Jimmy Urine/James Urineger has dyspraxia. This means he can’t say things as well as others can. So that’s why in some songs he says things wrong or it doesn’t sound right.

In 2015, the band had their last live show and went on to their normal lives. However, back in 2024 on the MSI channel, there is an album known as the B-SIDES MSI album (I can’t list the songs, since one has a bad name and it would be out of order if I named them without that one song) which is remakes of their old songs from the 19s to the 20s.

It’s a VOL:1 so there is a lucky chance that we will

Tips to thrive to achieve at school

make others happy and helping yourself is what makes you useful. And those people help back.

IF you want to achieve at school, with all your best, here are the helpful tips you can get: Attendance, Study, Respectful, Helpful

Hi, I am Soap and I would love to help those who want to achieve their bests and use their skills at school.

To achieve at school, attendance is also another thing for you to do, so get to school every single day (no truant, no lateness and no absent).

Studying is good because you can get good grades. Study is the most important thing for school because you get smarter if you study and the more you do, they get easier on challenges, works, and exams, and the greater grades you get. (But they get harder)

Respectful is for everyone at school to earn their respects back. Especially outside of school (Family, Friends, and members). Respecting others comes back to you and respecting you comes back to the others. Being helpful is kindness. Helping others is what

Attendance

Attendance is when you go to school. You have to go to school if you want to get a better attendance. Being in class can help you learn, and being there can mark you being attended to class, in time.

Getting better attendance will get you better things like prizes or going to a fun excursion (85% or overall).

There is a minute time where you had to get in class in time before the time runs out. If you skip class, you get marked as absent (not here) or truant (not in class).

Study

Study helps your brain braining. At home and school, in life.

Studying at school and home, can help you shape your future.

Study is when you are doing homework and schoolwork, and you want to study something.

Study get you smart to know things and can help you get good grades from tasks, assessments, and exams at school.

Respectful

Respectful is when you respect the people and their cultures, properties, and personalities. Respectful is not one of bullying, swearing, and cyberbullying.

Respecting both teachers and students, can get you awarded for being respectful. Respect others and then they can respect you back.

Helpful

Helping others is kindness. Being helpful makes yourself useful and helping others can make it easier for each other to do stuff much easier.

Like for example: you help the people clean, do the work properly, and you help when they need help. When you help, it makes the other people feel happy, and when you finish helping them, they thank you and you feel good when you say “you’re welcome” or “no problem”.

Pulse Alive Practice

„ BY ABHISHEK AND CARLY

HI, my name is Abhishek, and I am from Chifley College Mount Druitt dance team.

This year CCMDC dance team has been practicing for a big collabo-

rative dance, music and drama show called “Pulse Alive” at Ken Wellerman Stadium. We have been practicing for over six weeks.

Two weeks before the dance show we had a rehearsal at Sydney Netball Stadium and we danced for over 10 hours.

From all our dance team we would like to thank our dance teacher Mrs. Spears, who has been making dreams come to reality.

Hi, my name is Carly and I am in Year 9. What I like about dance is that I get all different types of opportunities to see other schools and meet new

people, and do a sport that makes me feel the best of myself. For example, “Pulse Alive” is where all schools over Australia come and do a compound dance together. I love making memories with my friends. I love to dance and it lets me forget about all the problems around me.

UNKNOWN SHADOWS Who Was the Shadow on the Walls?

„ BY DREAM NGUYEN

“COMING on NSW, 7 News, online video proof has shown tapes of an unworldly creature roaming around at exactly 2:50 to 3:07am. What is it? Who is this creature? Well recordings of it have spread around the internet world and it still remains unknown. With a tall

figure’s shadow on the walls, it must be human because ghosts don’t exist! Or do they.. How about we have a talk with one of the witnesses that had truly seen it with their eyes”

“It is an honour to speak upon the spiralling and panicking situation of this ‘creature’ Mrs. Bradley. It seems to be that the creature of the night has people speculating on who it is. Some say it’s just a silly prank, others think

it might have descended from the Moon unknowingly. And after gathering opinions and my theories about it, from the recordings and what it’s supposed to look like, I figure it could be a lurking man or woman that has a murderous intent. Though it’s not that clear to see, there is a faint sharp object that kind of blends in with their hands making it hard to be visible. The creature was also seen to be holding

what it looks like to be a leg, a human leg. Although we have no confirmation, these are all just speculations so just be aware.”

“Thank you for your time Micheal Burwood and I appreciate your volunteering to talk about this internet mystery. Well that’s it for NSW, 7 News, stay safe and stay alerted. We will be back for more.”

That One Night, That One Fight

„ BY TOBY N. ROBERTSON

BEFORE you start reading this thriller,

I have some backstory.

Zora was an abused child from 3-12 years old, her step-dad Michael was killed (I think we know who that was). Ever since, she has been obsessed with murder, while having a growing crush on Liam. Zora always tries to kill in different ways every time.

First kill (step dad) - drowning.

Second (Elizabeth) - piercing heart.

Third (Zack) - blood loss/ stabbing.

Chapter 1: Elizabeth

The lock smashed against the wall with a loud bang. I pull out the knife and she goes pale.

“Why would you do this to me? Zora please.”

The knife plunges into her heart with a squelching noise as her face fills with pain.

“I have to.” I say with a blank expression.

A siren can be heard in the distance, and I book it for my car. A familiar smile across my face as I take off my mask and wonder. How did she know it was me?

Chapter 2

I run for my next class. Math is not my favorite, but I can handle it at least. Liam is in his regular seat and I sit next to him.

“Finally,” he says with sarcasm dripping from his voice.

“Look, I hate math too, but we can’t just leave the school,” I say, dread mixing in my voice as I look at the news.

“I saw it too, but why kill Eliz?”

“I don’t know, you’re turning into detective Liam again.”

“And you’re my handy deputy Zora-” Liam says as nostalgia grips his voice, until he is interrupted by Mrs. Johnson.

“Stop talking!” Mrs. Johnson practically screams after materialising out of God knows where.

Chapter 3: Zack

The baseball bat snapped in two looking like hundreds of little knives, as I stabbed it into his legs, then arms. He screams in pain, terror, and fear. The blood squelching under his convulsing body fills me with glee. I hear a familiar sound from his body, telling me that he is finally dead.

“Finally,” I whisper, my voice changer working perfectly. I stare at Zack’s dor-

mant body, his face is just a pile of guts, blood, and nightmares.

Chapter 4

I run inside and outside of my own house. Zack, Elizabeth, and Micheal run at me together. I scream and shout but they just keep coming at me.

“Run, run, run you can’t escape.” They come and come but I don’t stop. I trip and they surround me.

“You will get caught soon child. You cannot run forever.”

Chapter 5: Backstory

“Run Zora!” Mother says, her eyes drifting from surface to surface as a bang resounds inside the house.

“The pool, he is in the pool!” I say, fear running back into the end of my mind as I run towards the pool.

He is there facing away from me. I have an idea and untie my shoe lace, the fabric soft and swift. I slowly walk behind him and put the fabric around his neck, jump on him and force him underwater.

“AHH-.” Micheal screams, water filling his lungs silently, with gurgles coming from his drowning body. I feel his body convulsing and I smile wickedly.

Chapter 6: Caught

I open my room door, feeling the warmth outside vanish, replaced with a bone-chilling cold. The room is quiet, seemingly dormant from the living, but I can hear breathing coming from beside me, heavy and never stopping. I peer to my side and my eyes adjust to the darkness. A cooler is sitting there, not where I left it.

“Hello there, Zora.” My voice fills the room, filling me with dread. I look around and I realise, that it is my recording. I remember that I have headphones in and take them out.

“Liam.”

“Hey Zora.”

“Whatcha doin’?”

“Nothing, just thinking about this mask.” he fiddles with the mask, my mask. “Hmm, Zora are you the killer?”

“No. “ — “Yes.” — “No.” — “Yes.” — “NO!” — “Yes.” — “Fine, yes I am, I am the killer.” I shudder at saying it.

“Put your hands in the air where I can see them.”

A cop appears behind me, in front and all around me.

“Anything you say or do can and will be used against you.”

My heart sinks to my feet.

Are your kids bored again?

„ BY LILY KARP

TODAY I will tell you what to do in case of this incredibly serious event. Spending time with your kids is ESSENTIAL, unless you want them to grow up to be homeless and living on the streets, so be prepared to expect some fun bonding activities on this list!

Number One- Make a pillow fort with your kids. You can never ever go wrong with a pillow fort! Unless it collapses or something.

There are a lot of ways you can make one, but my favourite is by getting two chairs and hanging a blanket over them both to create a canopy. A preferred spot for this is in front of the TV, think about it; a pillow fort and movie night?! Sounds

totally awesome.

Number Two- Go to the park. A place where you can get your steps in and your kids can burn off all that energy that seems to appear out of nowhere. One of my favorite games to play at the park is the floor is lava. Your kids avoid touching the floor at all costs and you as the parent can be a very scary lava monster! Or you can join your kids and dodge the floor.

Number Three- Draw or color something together. This is perfect to let your kid’s imagination and creativity spark; this is how all future doctors start. The activity also helps you as well though! You get a priceless, stunning, gorgeous artwork that you can frame and hang on your wall for generations to come. All of your neighbors will be jealous.

Number Four- Cook/bake togeth-

er. Making food together is an amazing bonding experience and very memorable. You can make a traditional dish, bake delicious biscuits or just throw random stuff in your pantry together. Kids are more likely to try and enjoy new foods like vegetables if they help prepare them (hurray). Having a D.I.Y great British bake off at home is the most entertaining coming from my experience.

Number Five- Dance together Dancing is the best, play your favourite tunes and get down to the beat. Dancing releases endorphins (the thing that makes you happy) so you and your kid/s can have the time of your life just in the space of your living room. This also helps your kids get rid of all of their extra energy, also dancing is proven to help kids with their self esteem, balance, and overall health.

Dancing is way better than you would think.

Number Six- Next up, Balloon volleyball. Try and keep the balloon up in the air for as long as possible! Simple and fun. But maybe play this in an open space or somewhere where there isn't stuff you don't want to break. You tend to crash into a lot of stuff playing this game.

Number Seven- Write a story together. Sometimes colouring and drawing is just not fun, especially if you only have a lead pencil. So, write a story! You can play games to create the story. A game example is one where you start with something like “ deep in the forest” or “the small bear” and then you and your kid’s have to say one word each to continue the story and try to make the story make sense. Very fun and a bit more challenging game.

PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS: OUR STUDENTS Are SMASHING post-school goals

„ BY ABBIGAEL GOMM (YEAR 12) AND THOMAS HOUSTON (YEAR 12)

SENIOR Campus continues to strive for excellence in supporting our students into positive pathways beyond Year 12. Over the past three years, we have seen significant improvement in our post-school destination outcomes, with 58% of students moving into positive pathways in 2023, increasing to 92% in 2024, and reaching an impressive 95% in 2025.

This growth reflects our school’s strong focus on ensuring every student leaves with a clear plan for their future. We have also seen a major reduction in students with unknown or uncertain destinations, dropping from 42% in 2023 to just 5% in 2025.

At the same time, more of our students are successfully transitioning into university, employment, and vocational pathways, demonstrating our commitment to supporting a wide range of goals and helping all students find success beyond school. This progress is made possible thanks to the outstanding programs and initiatives we have available for our students to participate in.

This term, a group of our female students participated in the ongoing

Women in STEM university experience called “Girls 2 Graduates (G2G).”

The program is designed for female students in Years 11 and 12, especially those studying science subjects, to explore different aspects of STEM. Participants gained hands-on experience with experiments, taught experiments to younger students, and learned about science-based university courses such as Medical Science and Sport Science. Four Year 12 students - Abbigael G, Jalukshana T, Ridha S, and Jessica Ttook part.

Recently, they visited Chifley College Mount Druitt Campus to teach Year 8 students two science experiments and attended the G2G university camp, where they explored STEM courses and got a taste of university life. It was an exciting experience that helped them build confidence, teamwork skills, and a deeper understanding of STEM opportunities. The students would like to thank Danielle S (Head Teacher Maths/Science), who organised the G2G program for them.

In addition, a group of Year 12 students are participating in the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) U@ Uni Academy program. This program targets ATAR students and those planning to attend university, offering the chance to gain early entry offers into chosen courses while experiencing university life and learning to navigate campus facilities.

In Year 11, students attended a full

experience week where they explored courses such as Media, Education, and Health, and collaborated on projects with students from across NSW. They also visited the UTS campus in Sydney (near Central Station) to gain firsthand insight into university life and develop important skills.

Workshops held at Senior Campus by U@Uni Ambassadors further prepared them for the program’s activities. Many students are still actively participating and will complete the program over the next year.

Throughout the year, we run programs to support students from diverse backgrounds in exploring post-school pathways. These include the Western Sydney University Future Student Day, the Pathways to Dreaming program for Indigenous students, and the Pasifika Achievement to Higher Education program.

Through these initiatives, our students can explore university life, receive course guidance, and build confidence in planning their futures. These programs ensure that every student has the opportunity to find pathways that align with their goals, interests, and talents.

A number of our students are also involved in TAFE short courses and School-Based Apprenticeships or Traineeships. These programs provide practical skills and real-world experience, helping students gain qualifications while still at school. Many of

our students successfully complete these courses and traineeships each year, equipping themselves for future employment or further study as soon as they finish Year 12.

A special mention goes to Tommy K, our Head Teacher Careers and Transition, who helps us consider what pathways we want to pursue when we finish Year 12.

Last year, the Chifley College Senior Campus Careers and Transitions team, under Tommy’s leadership, won the 2025 Excellence in Careers & Transitions Team Award. This award recognises our Careers team for excellence in developing and implementing an outstanding Career Education & Development Program at our school.

GAME ON: SENIOR CAMPUS SETS The stage for sporting opportunities

„ BY LOSALINE SOAKAI (YEAR 12) AND LOGAN HAWKE (YEAR 12)

TERM 1 kicked off with plenty of excitement as students took to the courts and fields for basketball, volleyball, netball, and rugby league.

Every team has been keen to challenge themselves and represent Chifley College Senior Campus with pride. Our students and coaches have shown amazing commitment, attending training sessions in the mornings, during recess, and after school to get ready for games and tournaments.

These sessions not only improve fitness and skills but also give students a chance to connect with their coaches and teammates beyond the classroom.

Basketball Sports Report by Losaline and Logan

Recently, one of our basketball teams faced Pendle Hill High School in what players described as a challenging and exciting match. Although the game didn’t go our way, the team showed true Chifley Senior spirit with resilience and great sportsmanship. Sean, a team member, said, “We had a lot of respect for each other.” Despite the loss, Sean remains optimistic and deter-

mined, saying, “We’ll get them next time.”

Ali, another player, shared, “We had good team chemistry…the other team was pretty strong.” The players recognised their opponents as tough and skilled, but regardless of the result, they were proud to be part of the team. They bonded and made great memories together. Sean and Ali’s comments really reflect how much Senior Campus values sportsmanship, teamwork, and having fun.

Netball Fast5 Sports Report by Coach Elissa

The Schools Cup – Fast5, run by Netball NSW, was held on Wednesday 25th March at Netball Central. Year 11 and 12 students competed in a fast-paced, exciting format that tested skill, teamwork, and strategy. The competition was mixed, with teams allowed a maximum of three male players on court.

Fast5 Netball features five players per team, which allows greater court movement. Games are quicker than traditional netball, with immediate restarts after goals and rolling substitutions keeping the intensity high. Scoring is unique, with goals worth 1, 2, or 3 points depending on distance, and each team had a “Power Play” quarter where points were doubled. This format encouraged risk-taking and strategic play, making for an exciting and competitive event.

Chifley College Senior Campus has enjoyed great success in recent years in Fast5 Netball, and this year was one of their best yet. The team won each game in their pool, finishing top of their group. They started with a strong 22-15 win over Quakers Hill HS, followed by a comprehensive 32-5 victory against Plumpton HS. The third round saw a 17-11 win over Erskine Park HS, and the final match concluded with a dominant 32-4 victory over The Swish Kebabs.

Standout performances came from NSW State players Christian and Manu in the centre and accurate shooting in the circles, driving the team’s success, while Tatiana excelled in positioning, attacking play, and goal shooting. John-Paul and Dallas demonstrat-

ed versatility across Centre and Defence, and several Year 11 players - Aaliyah, Selena, Selupe, and Kylahna - made strong contributions in their first Fast5 competition. Azaria officiated as umpire, ensuring matches ran smoothly.

The team should be proud of their outstanding efforts and exemplary display of sportsmanship throughout the day.

Sport at Senior Campus

Sport plays a big role at Senior Campus, giving every student the chance to get involved and improve their skills. Throughout the year, students take part in a mix of individual and team sports including the SLR Rugby League Program, netball, volleyball, basketball, and many others. Whether you’re a skilled athlete or just starting out, Senior Campus values inclusivity, teamwork, resilience, and healthy competition. This welcoming approach helps students build confidence, make friends, and celebrate achievements, making everyone feel part of a supportive school community.

Our coaches are dedicated to helping students develop technical skills, foster positive attitudes, and create an environment where everyone feels encouraged to have a go, no matter their experience. Programs like these wouldn’t be possible without the passion and time our coaches give. Basketball is coached by Sam, Netball by Elissa, Rugby League by Robbie and Kevin S, and Volleyball by Kevin G - all doing a fantastic job. Our Sports Coordinator, John F, works tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure the school can offer such great sporting opportunities. Their leadership keeps every activity well organised, supported, and accessible to all.

Sport at Senior Campus builds belonging and school pride. Students are encouraged to cheer each other on and learn from every challenge, turning games and training into opportunities to improve. Thanks to the passion and support from both students and staff, Senior Campus continues to grow a positive sporting culture where everyone can shine. We’re all looking forward to more wins, personal bests, and awesome experiences as the year goes on.

SENIOR CAMPUS SRC SPREADS THE Love with Valentine’s Day fundraiser

„

BY YEAR 12 SRC STUDENTS

VALENTINES Day, celebrated each year on February 14, originated centuries ago and has become a global tradition. While its roots lie in stories of Saint Valentine and ancient Roman festivals, today it is recognised as a day to express love, friendship, and appreciation for those around us.

Beyond romantic gestures, Valentine’s Day encourages acts of kindness and positive connections - a message that we believe in.

To celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, the SRC (Student Representative Council) held a fundraising event. Students and staff purchased roses to share with friends and loved ones, creating a cheerful and thoughtful atmosphere that marked a highlight for the school community early in the term.

Behind the scenes, Rob P (Head Teacher Wellbeing) and Rickie F (Student Support Officer) went to the flower markets to select and buy the roses, en-

suring the freshest blooms for the fundraiser. Lisa K (Year Adviser), Rickie F, and Anna (Wellbeing Intern), together with the SRC, carefully placed the roses in plastic sleeves, preparing them for sale so each one would look its best.

In the lead-up to the event, SRC members worked collaboratively to prepare. Students took part in a working bee to create card tags for the roses, giving each a special, personal touch. The SRC set up a vibrant stall, creating a welcoming space where everyone was invited to buy a rose.

Both staff and students appreciated the opportunity to brighten someone’s day and be part of a meaningful, longstanding school tradition. The campaign encouraged inclusivity, welcoming all students to join in and fostering a strong sense of togetherness.

This fundraising initiative served multiple purposes. It gave us in the SRC a chance to take an active role in organising a school event while raising important funds for the Year 12 Formal later in the year. The SRC is dedicated to running activities that enhance

student life and have a positive impact on the wider school community.

Events like the Valentine’s Day provided us with the opportunity to develop valuable skills in organisation, teamwork, and customer service - skills that will benefit us in our future.

The Valentine’s Day fundraiser at Senior Campus has become an eagerly anticipated annual tradition. It not only celebrates a popular cultural event but also reinforces important values of compassion, teamwork, and school spirit.

The SRC and the wider Senior Campus community look forward to building on this success throughout the year, planning more creative and engaging opportunities for students to connect, contribute, and thrive.

Buying and Selling a Business MASTERCLASS

Do you know what your business is really worth?

Do you know how to sell or buy a business for the best price?

Whether you’re planning to sell your business in the next 1–5 years, looking to buy or simply want to understand how to sell or buy a business, this exclusive event on May 4 at Parramatta is designed for you.

Buying or selling a business is one of the biggest financial decisions we make. Getting it wrong can cost. We’ve partnered with Xcllusive Business Sales and Aspect Legal, two of Australia’s leading firms in business sales and advisory to deliver in-person, practical insights that you won’t find online.

At this engaging and informative event, you’ll learn:

• How businesses are valued and how to increase that.

• The biggest mistakes sellers make and how to avoid them.

• What buyers are really looking for - right now.

• Tips to prepare your business for sale before you go to market.

• How to value your business.

• Structuring deals, negotiations and timing for maximum value.

Our presenters incude:

Zoran Sarabaca Director

Xcllusive Business Brokers

Joanna Oakey Managing Partner Aspect Legal

Why attend?

This is not a generic seminar. It’s a practical, insider session delivered by professionals in a friendly environment who work in business sales and business improvement every day. You’ll walk away with:

• A clearer exit or acquisition roadmap.

• Smarter questions to ask advisors.

• Greater confidence in your next move.

Perfect for...

• Owners / managers of businesses of all sizes and stages.

• Entrepreneurs and investors looking to purchase or sell a business.

• Partners planning succession or exit.

• Advisors supporting SMEs.

HOW DO SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TRAP USERS

WHEN MANY WOULD RATHER LEAVE

NEW research shows social media platforms do not need to addict users to keep them – they just need to make leaving worse than staying Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok harm their users yet continue to grow because people feel compelled to stay, not because they are addicted, but because being off the network is even worse than being on it, according to UNSW Business School research.

The study, published in the Journal of Public Economics, found that social media platforms create "bad networks" – platforms where participation is harmful but opting out carries an even higher social cost. The UNSW Business School researchers showed that these networks are not hard to establish. In fact, a small number of early adopters is all it takes to trigger a cascade that drags in everyone else.

The study, Bad Networks, was co-authored by UNSW Business School’s Professor Robert Akerlof, Scientia Professor Richard Holden and Dr DJ Thornton, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Manos Institute for Cognitive Economics at UNSW Sydney. Using game-theoretic modelling, the researchers solved for the ‘Nash equilibrium’ – the point at which no individual has an incentive to change their decision, given what everyone else is doing, to show how networks that harm users form, grow and persist.

“The upsides of network effects have been widely studied and are well understood”, said Prof. Holden. “We wanted to better understand the dark side of networks.”

Bad networks

The researchers found that social media platforms are prone to becoming bad networks because they generate social media ‘rat races’ – competitions for likes, followers and public signals of status that deliver no collective benefit and may reduce wellbeing. The study showed that platforms have an incentive to intensify these competitive dynamics because doing so tends to increase network size, even at the expense of users.

"Amplifying the rat race boosts network size, which, while harmful to consumers, may benefit the platform," the paper stated.

Prof. Holden said that “when people are judged by their number of followers or likes, there is extreme pressure to post and to participate in the network to keep up with their peers. This is the very essence of a ‘rat race’.”

The Facebook Files and mounting legal action

Internal Meta research cited in the paper illustrates the problem. The company’s own analyses, as reported in the Wall Street Journal's coverage of the "Facebook Files", acknowledged that Instagram worsened body image issues for one in three teenage girls and that users themselves blamed the platform for increases in anxiety and depression. Despite this, participation persisted.

The question of what platforms knew about the harm they caused (and when) has since moved into the courts. A New Mexico jury recently ordered Meta to pay US$375 million after finding the company violated state consumer protection law by misleading users about the safety of its platforms

and failing to protect children from exploitation.

Shortly after, a Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google liable in a separate case, ruling that Instagram and YouTube were designed to addict young users, awarding US$6 million in damages to a woman who said she became hooked on the platforms as a child. Both companies said they disagreed with the verdicts and would appeal.

How instigators influence resistors

The study's model identified two user types. "Instigators" join early because they gain from visibility and status, "creating a snowball effect" that pressures others to follow. "Resistors" who dislike the platform eventually sign up because the social cost of staying away becomes too high. The researchers compared the dynamic to "parties that people do not wish to attend but feel obligated to go to when others are going."

“High-profile influencers on social media (people with lots of Instagram followers, for instance) are potential instigators. But so are influential people in more localised networks, such as on university campuses,” Prof. Holden explained.

Key dynamic

As part of the research, a survey of university students cited in the paper captured the dynamic. On average, students would need to be paid US$59 to get off TikTok for four weeks. Yet those same students said they would pay US$28 to have TikTok switched off for everyone – evidence that users are trapped on platforms they would collectively prefer to leave.

Between 2019 and 2021, Instagram ran an experiment hiding public "like" counts, with the stated aim "to make it less of a competition", according to other research cited in the paper. It found that removing visible likes reduced negative affect and loneliness among users – yet Instagram made the change optional rather than the default.

Can regulation fix harmful social media networks?

The paper also examined whether regulation could address the problem. The researchers found that Pigouvian taxes (charges designed to make users pay for the harm they impose on others) can work in some situations. But once a bad network is established, a tax calibrated to the harm each user causes may not dislodge it, because each individual user has almost no effect on the network's overall size.

As the paper noted: "Achieving the socially preferred outcome may require a more extreme policy – a tax high enough to destroy the bad equilibrium altogether, or an outright ban on the network – rather than merely correcting the marginal externality at the existing network size."

Australia's legislation banning social media for users under 16 was cited as an example of a targeted policy that removes the instigators needed to tip a peer network into harmful territory.

“Australia has been a world leader in age verification for social networks – though how effective that policy is, remains to be seen,’ Prof. Holden said. “The broader challenge is limiting bad networks through taxes on usage or directly on algorithms that cause harm to users

more agreed care beds welcome

AGEING Australia has welcomed the Albanese Government’s $115M investment to expand aged care beds, targeting key regions to ease hospital pressure. The funding supports faster delivery of new capacity, but leaders warn it falls short of demand. With Australia’s ageing population growing rapidly, far more beds are needed annually. The initiative is seen as a positive first step, but not a complete solution to the looming aged care shortfall.

move to protect retail workers

THE NSW Government will consult stakeholders on new measures to protect retail workers from violence, including proposed Workplace Protection Orders to ban offenders from stores. This builds on existing laws and a police-led retail crime strategy targeting repeat offenders. Since October 2025, hundreds have been charged and stolen goods recovered. The initiative is supported by industry collaboration and SafeWork NSW efforts to prevent workplace harassment and improve safety.

Impact of the social media ban

AUSTRALIA’S under-16 social media ban has reshaped family dynamics, reducing conflict for some parents by providing clear boundaries, while creating new tensions for others. Some children feel relief from online pressures, but others feel isolated, especially in marginalised groups. Tech-savvy teens are often bypassing restrictions, highlighting enforcement challenges. Experts say the law is a positive step, but lasting impact will depend on education, dialogue, and balancing protection with connection.

Support for travellers in conflict zones

TRAVEL insurers are providing 24/7 support to Australians affected by the Middle East conflict, including medical assistance and help with disruptions. Policies may be extended due to airport closures, and travellers are urged to contact insurers or lodge claims. While war-related losses are typically excluded, other claims remain covered. The Insurance Council of Australia has declared the conflict a Significant Event, coordinating industry, government, and response efforts.

Study reveals breast cancer triggers

A UNIVERSITY of Adelaide study found mechanical pressure helps early breast cancer cells grow and spread. Cells use a sensor called PIEZO1 to detect pressure, triggering pathways that increase growth and aggressiveness and create lasting “mechanical memory.” Blocking these pathways reduced tumour progression. High PIEZO1 levels are linked to poorer outcomes, highlighting pressure as a key cancer driver and a promising target for new treatments and early intervention strategies.

repair culture is growing fast

REPAIR culture is growing in Australia as people choose to fix rather than replace items, saving money, reducing waste and building skills. The WD-40 Company Repair Challenge 2026 encourages Australians to showcase repair projects, supporting sustainability and community connection. Backed by groups like Australian Men’s Shed Association and Repair Café, the movement promotes hands-on learning and social engagement, with repair seen as a practical way to combat rising consumption and strengthen local communities.

Detecting dementia early progress

THE Australian Dementia Network plans a pilot using digital cognitive and blood tests to improve early Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Targeting at-risk Australians, it aims to enable earlier treatment, delay disease progression and reduce costs. With dementia affecting over 400,000 Australians, the $6 million proposal could expand access, especially in regional areas, and address long wait times, offering major health and economic benefits nationwide.

Free law help group turns 25

LAWACCESS NSW is celebrating 25 years, having assisted 3.7 million people with free legal information and referrals. Demand continues to rise, with increasingly complex issues such as financial stress, housing and domestic violence. The service is adopting AI and digital tools to improve efficiency and access. In 2024–25, over 165,000 enquiries were handled, with a focus on expanding support and improving pathways to legal assistance.

prisons can’t surveil conversations

NSW prisons can no longer surveil conversations between inmates and lawyers after Parliament disallowed a regulation limiting protections. The move restores legal professional privilege, ensuring confidential access to legal advice. Concerns arose after an inquiry found prison staff misused monitored communications for intimidation. Greens MP Sue Higginson said the change protects vulnerable prisoners and upholds justice, amid criticism of government oversight and alleged unlawful surveillance practices.

Telling stories, celebrating success, inspiring all WISB is about progress. The stories that stem from the rich ecosystem of women growing in and succeeding in businesses across all sectors and all levels.

WWW.WOMNENINSMALLBUSINESS.AU

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/WOMENINSMALLBUSINESS

PAVING THE WAY FOR NORTH WEST

Road upgrades are on

„ MICHELLE ROWLAND

UPGRADING our local roads is es-

sential to keeping our community moving. It’s one of the issues residents often raise with me, and a priority I am committed to delivering.

North West Sydney is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, but for too long our road infrastructure has failed to keep pace. Families have been left spending more time in traffic and less time at home.

That’s why I’m proud that the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are getting on with the job of delivering the upgrades our community needs.

I have fought hard to secure over $1B in funding for major projects across our area, including Burdekin Road and Townson Road, Garfield Road East and West, Bandon Road, Richmond Road and Prospect Highway.

Works are now underway on the vital $720M Richmond Road upgrade.

Traffic modelling shows these upgrades will cut travel times by around 21% in the morning and 34% in the afternoon — real relief for local families. In addition, I secured funding for planning works on future upgrades along the corridor to The Driftway.

Separately, the Bandon Road up-

grade will deliver additional lanes, a new underpass to replace the busy rail crossing, and improved connections between Windsor Road and Richmond Road. Meanwhile, upgrades to Garfield Road West will increase capacity and improve safety, and Garfield Road East is being widened from two lanes to four between Riverstone and Box Hill. These are critical projects that will ease congestion, improve safety and

better connect our suburbs, and I will continue to keep the community updated as work progresses.

You may have also seen that the brand new, toll-free M12 motorway is now open, connecting Western Sydney to the new Western Sydney International Airport. This vital new motorway will support jobs, growth and connectivity across our region.

Working together, State and Federal

Labor are delivering the infrastructure Western Sydney needs — so you spend less time on the road, and more time with your family.

Michelle Rowland MP is the Federal Member for Greenway and Attorney-General of Australia. If you need assistance with any Federal issue, you can contact Michelle by phone on 02 9671 4780 or by email at Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au

Tax Debt Matters

IT’S NOT THE DEBT BUT THE DELAY There are paths through this

„ MICHAEL MOON

MOST businesses with ATO debt don't collapse because the number was too big. They collapse because they waited too long to do anything about it.

By the time they moved, the interest had compounded, the options had narrowed, and the window had closed.

That window is shorter than it's ever been.

I was presenting to a room of accountants and advisors last week. The question I kept getting asked was some version of the same thing: is it getting better or worse?

The honest answer is both.

Earlier this year a formal review examined how the ATO handles requests to waive interest on unpaid tax debt — the general interest charge, or GIC. The ATO accepted the findings and acted. As a result, there's now a clearer pathway to challenge a decision that went against you, but the bar to succeed hasn't dropped. If anything, the pro-

cess now requires a stronger written case than before. And enforcement hasn't paused while that takes effect.

The ATO is moving faster on recovery than it was two years ago. Letters that used to go unanswered for months are now getting follow-up within weeks.

Director Penalty Notices are being issued earlier in the process. The window between "we owe some tax" and "this is now a personal liability" has shortened. Most business owners don't know that window exists until it's already closing.

A DPN makes the debt personal. It doesn't matter what structure you're trading through. Once it's issued, your house is in the conversation. We're seeing more of them, and we're seeing them earlier.

Meanwhile the interest runs every day, including the days you're trying to sort it out. As of 1 April the GIC sits at 10.96% per annum, compounding daily. Since July last year it stopped being tax deductible. The deduction was worth roughly $15,000 on a $50,000 liability. That saving is gone. A business that owed $80,000 twelve months ago and has been managing it informally is

likely sitting closer to $89,000 today. The original debt didn't grow. The interest did.

Payday super lands 1 July. For businesses already carrying ATO debt, that's another cashflow hit on a fixed date. These pressures don't ease on their own.

The advisors in that room were worried. Not panicked. Worried. That's telling. They were worried because their clients aren't coming to them early enough. They hear about the ATO problem when the situation has already compounded, when options have narrowed, when the cost of fixing it has grown. The advice gap isn't knowledge. It's timing.

Here is what acting early looks like. You need a payment arrangement formalised, not informal. You need a remission application running alongside it, not instead of it. And you need someone who can tell you whether that application is strong enough to succeed — because the standard required hasn't changed just because the pathway has opened.

Delay isn't only failing to start. It's also failing to check.

Not all payment plans are equal.

A good one is built around your business, your cash cycle, and what you can actually keep up with and when structured properly, can run to three years. A not-so-good one is a cookie-cutter arrangement that was never really going to hold. When conditions shift, a plan can start to strain before anyone notices. With the rate up, deductibility gone, and payday super coming, now is the right moment to check whether yours still fits.

The businesses coming through this are treating it as a financial problem that needs specialist management. The ones that don't make it usually had the same information. They just waited.

Don't wait to find out which side of that line you're on. There are paths through this. They just get narrower the longer you wait.

Tax Debt Matters is a monthly column. Michael Moon is a Director at Tax Assure, a specialist tax debt negotiation firm. Tax Assure works on an assessment and engagement fee followed by a success fee based on interest and penalties actually remitted. Initial consults are obligation free. 1300 952 295 | www.taxassure.com.au

YOU CAN COUNT ME IN Launching number screening check

EVERY Year 1 NSW public school

student will be tested on essential mathematics skills as the NSW Labor Government rolls out the nation-leading number screening check from Term 2 this year.

The number screening check helps to identify students who are at risk of falling behind in mathematics, allowing teachers to provide targeted teaching and learning interventions for our youngest students.

The statewide roll out follows a successful two-year trial which has helped more than 7,000 students ensure they have the best possible chance at succeeding in mathematics.

Under a deal struck with the Commonwealth last year, the Government will make the number screening check available for all states and territories to use.

The number screening check complements the Year 1 phonics screening check, ensuring teachers have a comprehensive, early view of individual students’ progress in both literacy and numeracy.

The number and phonics screening checks form part of the Government’s work to improve education outcomes for all public-school students after years of

decline under the Liberals and Nationals.

The Government has overseen steady growth in NSW public schools’ phonics results, with nearly two-thirds of Year 1 students meeting the benchmark in 2025. Under the Liberals and Nationals, only around half of Year 1 students were meeting the expected benchmark in phonics.

The ongoing focus on improving academic outcomes extends to NAPLAN, with NSW now the leading state, ranking first or equal first across multiple year levels in writing, reading, grammar, and

numeracy.

These improved results follow the delivery of an election commitment to get more teachers in front of students.

With the abolishment of the Liberals and Nationals wages cap and making NSW teachers the best paid in the country, vacancies have been slashed to a 12-year low and halved the number of merged or cancelled classes.

The delivery of these commitments has been supported by an updated school curriculum and a deliberate shift to explicit teaching in NSW public

schools. This is giving teachers a stronger, more consistent understanding of what every student needs to learn effectively.

The Government is also delivering the largest school infrastructure investment in NSW history, including $9B in new schools and upgrades delivering 230 new and upgraded school projects, as well as delivering 100 new public preschools with 75 already under construction.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said: “Students’ early years of schooling are critical as they develop the foundational skills to set them up for longterm academic success.

“The number screening check helps teachers identify the students who need extra help early, ensuring they receive the right support immediately, and are better equipped for school and life.

“The Minns Labor Government is lifting students’ academic outcomes after the Liberals and Nationals presided over years of declining results and a teacher shortage crisis they ignored and denied.

“We’re getting on with the job of rebuilding public education to ensure every student in New South Wales reaches their full potential.”

Feel Relaxed and Refreshed on Vietnam’s Pure Shores

CAM Ranh is a destination where travellers can do as much or as little as they choose. The region’s stunning coastal scenery and laid-back ambiance are perfectly suited to “slow travel,” and guests can spend endless days soaking up the blissful beachside vibe.

ESC Spa is the world-class wellness centre at Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh where every ritual is designed to revive the body, mind and soul. Journeys begin with gentle

heat and delicate botanical scents at the aromatic floral sauna, before a purifying detox in the steam room melts away pent-up stress.

The Himalayan Salt Chamber releases mineral-rich particles to promote respiratory health, an Ice Grotto awakens the senses and boosts circulation, and private treatment rooms set the scene for signature Vietnamese spa therapies, inspired by ancient traditions and elevated with contemporary techniques. Yoga and

tai-chi classes, which are available either in a dedicated Yoga Studio or on the beach, help guests restore their equilibrium.

Adventurous travellers also have plenty of opportunities to head out and explore the natural world – above and beneath the waves. Nearby attractions such as Binh Hung Island reveal crystal-clear seas, while eco-conscious jungle hikes provide an exhilarating insight into the region’s ecology. Bike excursions along rural

pathways, kayak trips through lush mangroves and shimmering lagoons, and fishing tours are sure to satisfy visitors’ thirst for adventure.

Cam Ranh’s captivating culture can be experienced with visits to traditional craft villages, spiritual temples, or a trip to the Life Puppets theatre, where timeless folk tales are brought to life in dazzling shows, including string, shadow, and water puppets, contemporary dance and orchestral music.

with Emma Wilson

Immersive Activities to Inspire All Ages

WHAT makes Cam Ranh truly stand out is how safe it is for families. This secluded coastal region is blissfully quiet, without the busy traffic associated with Asia’s major cities, and the ocean air feels wonderfully fresh and pure.

At Radisson Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh, kids can make a splash and enjoy endless hours of fun at the Rain-

enjoy endless hours of fun in the sun.

The Splash Kids’ Club also provides plenty of toys, games, arts and crafts, and at Bai Dai Beach all ages can feel the spray of the ocean waves with a wide range of water sports.

For families who want to enjoy precious moments together, the resort has curated a series of exciting activities. A complimentary Vietnamese Cooking

beachfront

Alternatively, the Coffee Brique workshop is a hands-on session where guests can discover how used coffee can be sustainably transformed into eco-friendly briquettes, or ”coffee charcoal” – a low-carbon fuel

Experience Vietnam through hands-on culinary moments

and get a great night’s sleep in a choice of spacious connecting rooms and suites with sea views. For truly unforgettable vacations, the resort's spectacular one- and two-bedroom Beachfront Pool Villas are private sanctuaries of luxury with indoor and outdoor living

Iwith Emma Wilson

with Emma Wilson

DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF Vietnam’s Coastal Paradise

MAGINE strolling along a seemingly endless stretch of golden sand, lapped by azure seas, as local fishing boats bring home the catch of the day. Imagine exploring lush forests that resound with the calls of exotic wildlife, or diving down to vibrant coral reefs that teem with colourful fish. And imagine uncovering enchanting temples that bring more than 1,000 years of history to life.

All of these wonders – and many more – are waiting to be discovered in Cam Ranh.

Located in a less-visited corner of Vietnam’s central coast, Cam Ranh is home to a sparkling collection of natural and cultural jewels. Bai Dai Beach is a 10km-long shoreline where couples

and families can stroll and splash in the sea, while tropical fruit blooms in the orchards and gardens of Vietnam’s “mango capital,” and bustling markets burst with life and fresh produce, including succulent seafood.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Hon Ba Nature Reserve is a sanctuary where more than 250 types of animal – including endangered species – thrive amid the mountainous forests, history lovers are transported on a journey back in time to the ancient Champa Kingdom, and heritage seekers can visit traditional craft villages.

And yet, despite containing so many amazing attractions, Cam Ranh also retains a sense of blissful tranquillity, which feels a world away from South-

east Asia’s busy beach resorts. At Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh, guests have unparallelled opportunities to discover the destination with immersive activities, concierge-led experi-

ences, and independent tours. Nestled in gardens just footsteps from Bai Dai Beach, this is a haven of adventure for travellers who crave authentic and original encounters.

with Emma Wilson

with Emma Wilson

Savour the Flavours of Cam Ranh

CAM Ranh is a haven for foodies, with clear seas that teem with an abundance of seafood, including the famous local lobsters, and lush forests, farms and orchards where tropical fruit, fragrant herbs and aromatic spices thrive.

Nestled amid verdant gardens overlooking the ocean, Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh is playing a key role in positioning Cam Ranh on a global stage for food tourism. Outstanding international flavours can be savoured throughout the day at a choice of six restaurants and bars, from the modern international flavours at Sunrise, to tasty tapas and light bites at Cheers Bar, cool refreshments at The Lounge, and sunset cocktails at Waves Beach Bar.

Now, this award-winning resort is raising its epicurean reputation to even greater heights with the arrival of a highly-skilled Executive Chef, and a new fine dining concept at Blu Lobster, its signature seafront restaurant. Newly-appointed Executive Chef Andy Pham Xuan Cuong brings more than 30 years of expertise to the resort, having previously delighted diners at award-winning hotels, resorts and restaurants in China, Vietnam and the Middle East. At the heart of his philosophy lies a deep-rooted passion for Vietnamese produce and a profound respect for cultural authenticity and sustainability, and this guiding principle now shapes the evolution of Blu Lobster.

and fishing villages, Chef Andy sources the finest and freshest ingredients, including Cam Ranh lobster, hand-selected scallops, and Nha Trang black

grouper, which are infused with traditional Vietnamese flavours and elevated with modern cooking techniques.

Signature dishes include grilled lobster with lemongrass béarnaise fish sauce, Cam Lam mango salad with shrimp,

grilled cockles with onion, lemongrass & ginger, and wok-fried squid with Luk Lak sauce & herbs.

Chef Andy’s vision extends beyond the menu transformation, however.

From March until May, Radisson Blu

Resort Cam Ranh will host the World Flavor Festival – an immersive epicurean celebration that will showcase a wide range of global cuisines, with cooking classes, expert-led workshops, live performances, family activities and more.

Culinary enthusiasts also have plenty of opportunities to head out into the wider area and experience the local food scene, from tasting sizzling street food in Nha Trang, the vibrant seafront city just 30km from the resort, to witnessing how the “catch of the day” is brought ashore using time-honoured fishing methods.

So, whether guests are seeking a family vacation with plenty of inspiring activities for all ages, a couple’s wellness break or romantic retreat, or a culinary discovery to tantalise the taste buds, Cam Ranh is an idyllic destination for every occasion.

Getting There and Away

Cam Ranh may feel off the beaten track, but it is easily accessible. Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air and Jetstar all provide direct services between Australia and Vietnam, including flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. Seamless one-stop connections from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer access to Cam Ranh, and the country’s stress-free eVisa programme offers up to 90 days of travel.

Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh is located just 5km from Cam Ranh International Airport.

For more information and to discover the wonders of Cam Ranh, please visit www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/ radisson-blu-resort-cam-ranh

with Emma Wilson

New big thing in healthy living

HOUSED is the fabulous new phenomenon in healthy living, rolled out across Sydney and soon to the Central Coast with a fabulous flagship store in Macquarie Park.

Just moments from Macquarie University and Macquarie Centre, this wellness destination brings together fitness, recovery and community under one expansive, modern roof.

Floating in a perfectly heated 38°C magnesium pool is one of the simplest ways to reset both body and mind.

As you drift weightlessly, tight muscles release and the nervous system begins to slow. Follow it with a session in the sauna and the benefits multiply - improved circulation, deep relaxation and a moment of calm in an otherwise busy week.

Building small rituals like this into your routine can make it easier to stay on top of your health, supporting recovery, better sleep and overall wellbeing and access to this wellness centre at Housed is part of the top tier membership*.

Positioned perfectly for locals, professionals and students alike, open from 6am until late, Housed is designed to work around real life with a significant feature of Housed being the gym floor space. At 8,500sqm it is Australia’s largest and is set to reach 10,000 sqm with the addition of premium basketball courts during 2026.

Spanning two buildings, hundreds of pieces of equipment thoughtfully laid out and grouped by brand and function, there’s no frustrating wait times.

Everything feels intentional and well-considered, allowing members to move seamlessly through their sessions with plenty of room. There are also small private gym spaces, if you like being a bit more private.

Pilates House within Housed Macquarie Park is a destination in its own right. There are three dedicated studios, one focused entirely on pure mat Pilates and two fully equipped reformer rooms.

Whether you’re refining technique

or building strength, the modern studios offer multiple classes per day to fit in with your schedule.

One of the most striking spaces is the large, dedicated HYROX training zone, tapping into the global fitness phenomenon that continues to grow in popularity. Functional, high-intensity and performance-driven, this 560sqm space is designed for members who want to push boundaries in a structured environment.

The on-site café includes Toby’s Estate coffee and is open 6am to 3pm making it the perfect pre-workout stop or mid-morning reset. Sit indoors or outdoors on a Sydney sunny day or bring your laptop and chill here, it’s a great community hub space.

The health-focused smoothies on offer here are delicious and include traditional choices like Mango and Berry but Powerhouse and Lean Machine options packed with protein and carbs for members doing some serious workouts and healthful add-ons such as creatine, collagen, extra protein or L-carnitine are available.

*Membership tiers for Housed begin from $20 per week, with the top-tier $60 membership unlocking access to the impressive Wellness Centre, a recovery sanctuary that includes a large magnesium bath, cold plunge, sauna, red-light sauna and steam room. It’s the kind of space you’ll want to linger in long after your workout ends.

Central Coast Grand Opening Late April / Early May 2026. Keep your eye out for the grand opening of Housed in the Central Coast and don’t miss out on being one of the first 100 to sign up for a membership to collect your goody bag, complete with sweat towel, water bottle and lots of other treats in a cute tote bag. To get a free pass to try Housed for yourself head to www.housed.com.au

Sydney Fish Market’s new restaurant

TOUCHWOOD is the Sydney Fish Market’s new restaurant offering and is a great addition to the space. It’s a lovely, open-air restaurant with plenty of outside seating to watch the ferries, yacht and rowers pass by. Located on the quieter side of the Fish Markets, it overlooks the old Fish Market venue and CBD as well as the river and has THE most delicious fish-styled food options.

Touchwood’s menu celebrates the sea from lobster and mushroom poutine to a market plate of oysters and prawns.

The all-day menu is delicious, don’t miss the crab and XO butter crumpets, they are truly divine.

The fish and prawn cassoulet are equally delicious

and the fish and chips and fish burger is wonderful too. The restaurant owners are experienced foodies and very passionate about their food.

Touchwood is open from 8am and only just opened for dinners during February, that’s how new the venue is! The fish markets are easily accessible via the Wentworth Park light rail station on the L1 Dulwich Hill line, just a short stroll away and the trams are frequent.

Trick for young players: Fish market bathrooms are located downstairs in the car park plentiful, but noone knows they are there so there are queues out the door on the main floor – go downstairs!

Touchwood: Shop A2/1B Bridge Rd, +61 2 7813 8359 https//touchwoodsydney.com.au/

with Emma Wilson

Taiwan gallops into the light

„

EMMA WILSON

THINK Taiwan is just about computer chips and bubble tea?

Think again. This densely packed destination demonstrates how to honour a rich colonial past while boldly embracing a high-tech future. If you crave misty mountains and some of the tastiest food on the planet, this island belongs at the top of your bucket list.

I first saw Taiwan in the 1980s as a twelve year old, accompanying my father as he navigated the textile trade. My memories of Taipei then were a blur of rice paddies and roofs weighted by old tires, a budding energy met with big, welcoming smiles.

Forty years later, that energy has morphed into leading innovation in perfect harmony with the island's natural beauty. The streets are spotless, it’s incredibly safe, and yes, the garbage trucks really do sing. Towering over it all is Taipei 101. While US free-climber Alex Honnold recently scaled its exterior, I was more than happy just to take the high-speed lift to the 89th floor, watching the clouds drift by underneath.

This densely packed country is now possibly the world’s most modern metropolis!

Despite packing 23 million people into a space half the size of Tasmania, Taiwan remains a best kept secret. Nothing embodies this more than the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival. Forget simple paper lanterns. This is ancient folklore marrying high-tech. Imagine Disneyland’s scale, but with deeper spiritual ties.

The festival rotates cities annually, coinciding with the first full moon of the Lunar New Year. In 2026, Chiayi hosted the event in the southwest, a smooth 90 minute journey from Taipei via the HSR (High-Speed Rail), similar to Japan’s famous ‘bullet train’(Shinkansen) experience. As 2026 is the Year of the Horse, the atmosphere was charged with energy equating to speed, power, and success.

The centerpiece was a staggering 21-meter installation titled "Alishan, Veiled in Luminous Mist," a glowing tribute to the indigenous Tsou people.

This multisensory marvel blended pop-culture icons like Super Mario with local heritage. My highlight was the award-winning lanterns created by local school children, proving that even amidst 21st-century tech, the festival’s community heart remains intact.

As the festival lights up Chiayi, take note of the pro tips below:

Timing: Arrive by 5:00 PM as the lanterns flicker on at dusk. You’ll need several hours to explore the interactive installations and food markets.

Must Eat Treats: The festival aligns with strawberry season. Don't miss the strawberry mochis for a tart and sweet juicy bite. Also, seek out the famous Lukang steamed buns and scallion pancakes - the flavours are fabulous!

Avoid the Rush: Visit on a weeknight to avoid the heaviest crowds.

Looking ahead, the 2027 festival shifts to Miaoli, just 45 minutes from Taipei via the HSR. Start planning now!

The third night is on us

THE Pan Pacific Hotels Group has launched a Third Night On Us incentive, giving guests a complimentary third night when booking three consecutive nights in a Club Room or Suite. The Third night free offer is available to book from now until 28th April 2026 for stays until 30th April 2026. Experience the award-winning, luxurious Pan Pacific Melbourne, where breathtaking views of the city skyline and Yarra River meet exceptional comfort and service. Perfectly positioned in the South Wharf precinct, the hotel places guests at the heart of Melbourne’s premier dining, shopping and entertainment. With seamless access to the Melbourne Convention Centre and the city’s top attractions, Pan Pacific Melbourne offers an unforgettable base for both business and leisure in Australia’s fashion capital. Pan Pacific Melbourne Third Night On Us: From $337 per night (Pacific Club King room; minimum three-night stay with third night complimentary). More information about this amazing offer is https://www. panpacific.com/en/offers/third-night-on-us.html

THEY WILL KILL YOU - REVIEW

This film is wild! A blast of fun, and plenty of blood and gore to go around

„ JACOB RICHARSON

AWOMAN (Zazie Beetz) takes a job as a housekeep in an NYC highrise, unaware of the building’s history of disappearances. She soon realizes the community is shrouded in mystery. But the community soon realises that so is she.

They Will Kill You is such a surprise. If you’ve seen the trailer, you don’t even know the half of it yet. It’s the sort of movie that gets more out there as it goes along, and is best viewed with as little pre-information as possible.

Kirill Sokolov brings such a joyous energy to this wild film that you can’t help but be engaged throughout. The action is bloody and brilliant, the cinematography at times inspired, the plot unexpected. There are moments where this feels Wes Anderson-y, and then next minute someone’s foot will be cut in half with an axe. There are times when this feels like a Japanese samurai film, and then the main character punches her sister in the face and the cinema breaks into laughter.

Because this is also quite a funny film.

There are moments of great dialogue, and some great slapstick physical gags. Although they are muddled in among some fairly serviceable lines, particularly from the baddies who are constantly grousing with villain lines that could be from any film.

Zazie Beetz is a breath of fresh air, who brings the action, humour and pathos in everything she does. Patricia Arquette throws it to the walls with a deeply culty vibes film. And it’s fun to see Tom Felton and Heather Graham on the big screen again.

Ultimately, this is the sort of film that doesn’t overstay its welcome. At a tight 94 minutes, the film is already starting to drag just a touch. Sokolov has a good handle on when to wrap things up, and does so in a cathartic way that keeps things bloody up until the last minute.

This is the sort of film that is an absolute pleasure to watch, but not one to really challenge you. A hell of a lot of fun, if only a bit of fun.

They Will Kill You is a great time in the cinema, and worth the ticket price for the big screen shock and violence. A real blast, but not one overly elevated. THREE STARS

MEMORIES OF WONDERLAND

Demise of West’s first theme park

IT has been over 20 years since Australia’s Wonderland at Eastern Creek was demolished. Yet generations of people still remember it fondly.

Located on a sprawling site at the intersection of the M4 and Wallgrove Road, it brought theme park magic to Sydney’s western suburbs.

People of the west no longer had to make the long trek to Luna Park in the city. Wonderland opened 7 December 1985 and would become a victim of rising property values and ultimately, developer’s greed. Its location was vital as an industrial area, its fate sealed by the construction of the M7.

Wonderland, as it was more simply known, featured The Bush Beast, a massive timber roller coaster; The Demon, a smaller twisting coaster; Space Probe, the Bounty pirate ship, Hanna Barbera Land for the little ones, the Snowy River Rampage and a swathe of other attractions.

It was beautifully landscaped with trees and shrubs. There was a theatre for live children’s and music shows and a Gold Rush village, food stalls, game stalls, souvenir shops and more. And car parking was free.

In 1988 a waterpark, The Beach, was added, and this became very popular in the hot western suburbs in summer. So did the Five After Five policy, that is, five dollars admission after 5 o’clock. An Australian animal park was later added as well

In 1997 it was sold to a Malaysian company and began a slow decline. Hanna Barbera Land was closed off completely, and no new rides were added. The theatre was closed and the main restaurant also. Behind the scenes the new owners managed to have the land rezoned to industrial use.

Then they blamed every other event for the park’s demise, bushfires, the collapse of Ansett Airlines, the Asian

blamed everyone but their own mismanagement.

The park was closed in April 2004. Some of the rides were sold to theme parks overseas. Others were just demolished. The beau tiful landscaped gardens were simply bulldozed, as were most of the trees. Today the site is unrecognizable with its bulky goods warehouses, but at least the main street is named Wonderland Drive.

Today a new generation enjoy Raging Waters water park at Prospect. Let us hope it never suffers the same fate as Wonder land.

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