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Western News PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Friday, 16 March 2018

ISSUE 55

Check out our website www.wsnewsgroup.com

Who’s your fave? For the first time, Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is calling on the community to nominate an outstanding nurse or midwife for a People’s Choice Award as part of this year’s International Nurses & Midwives Day celebrations. More on p2.

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

COVER STORY

Western News

Who’s your favourite nurse or midwife?

or the first time, Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is calling on the community to nominate an outstanding nurse or midwife for a People’s Choice Award as part of this year’s International Nurses & Midwives Day celebrations. International Nurses & Midwives Day is an annual celebration for the whole community to acknowledge and applaud the crucial contribution nurses and midwives make to our health service. WSLHD executive director of nursing and midwifery and clinical governance Joanne Edwards said the People’s Choice award is an opportunity for everyone to reflect on the great experiences they’ve had with WSLHD nurses and midwives. “Each day nurses and midwives make a difference to the lives of patients, carers and their families,” Joanne said. “If you know a nurse or midwife who has made a difference to your life, the life of your family member, or you work alongside this person, consider nominating them.” The People’s Choice award winner will be recognised at WSLHD’s International Nurses and Midwives Day celebrations on Tuesday 8 May 2018. Submit your nomination by visiting thepulse.org.au or https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WSLHDPeoplesChoice The WSLHD nurse or midwife must work for a WSLHD facility (Auburn, Cumberland, Mount Druitt, Blacktown, Westmead hospitals or a WSLHD community centre). Patients, carers, family members or staff members are encouraged nominate. Voting closes Friday 6 April at 5pm.

St Joseph’s win Wanderers School of the Year

t Joseph’s Primary School in Schofields has been crowned the Wanderers School of the Year after taking out the 2018 version of the competition. Now in its third year, the Wanderers School of the Year is a points-based competition that encourages students to engage with Wanderers club and community programs centred on healthy lifestyles, education and football. St Joseph’s were the deserving champions

this year, coming out on top and earning the right to hold a massive Wanderers expo at the school. On Monday afternoon, the Wanderers Hyundai A-League squad together with some members of the Powerchair team visited St Joseph’s, where a number of activations were held throughout the day. St Joseph’s teacher Daniel Parnis said it was a special day for the school. “It’s a great opportunity for our school. A lot

of the kids love the Wanderers, we’ve got a lot of Members at our school,” said Parnis. “It’s great for those kids who don’t get an opportunity to go and see the Wanderers or meet their heroes. “When teams like the Wanderers come out, it’s fantastic because the kids get to meet their heroes, they get to see them beyond just being on the field, beyond being on their TV and see that they’re actually real people that they can aspire to be like.”

Western News

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By Keegan Thomson

WITHIN the next eight years western Sydney will undergo a transformative facelift which will see the region bursting with activity after the long awaited Western City Deal was revealed by the local, state and federal governments. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, State Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres and eight Mayors from across western Sydney ceremoniously signed the paperwork that aims to deliver jobs, education and infrastructure to all corners of the west. The three major pull outs from the Western City Deal include; the north south rail link, the Badgerys Creek Aerotropolis and the Western Parkland City Liveability Program. The north south rail link to run from Schofields to Badgerys Creek is something Blacktown Council has been lobbying for for many years but Stage 1 will only initially run between St Marys and the yet to be developed Badgerys Creek airport. It will be the only functioning rail line to the Badgerys Creek airport when it opens in 2026. Badgerys Creek Aerotropolis will be a growth centre, adjacent to the airport, that will include new jobs in defence industries, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, agribusiness and robotics. It is hoped a yet-to-be-named university campus will open up on site as well. The development of the Aerotropolis, and the other specialised airport based infrastructure, the government estimates there will be 200,000 jobs

created for people of western Sydney. The Prime Minister said the jobs that will be produced from the Aerotropolis will flow on to other areas. “It will create tens of thousands of jobs in the aviation, aerospace and defence industries, jobs that will flow into other sectors such as education, agribusiness, health, hospitality and retail,” Mr Turnbull said. “We see the potential for a STEM-focused university, vocational facilities and high schools, all with links to smart industry, growing inside the Aerotropolis.” The Liveability Program focuses on the environment and sustainable urban growth. The $150 million plan aims to make sure the urban sprawl that is synonymous with western Sydney

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

The Western City Deal a done deal

won’t continue as the region grows. The Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said the Liveability Program will be jointly funded by the NSW government, the local governments and the commonwealth government. “It’s co-contributed by the federal and the state governments to the tune of $60 million and the councils themselves are putting in $30 million,” Mr Ayres said. “It’s an example of all three tiers of government working together, not just in a planning sense, but also financially. Each of the councils want to make sure that they invest in the liveability of their local communities,” he said. The full effects of the City Deal are yet to be seen but on paper it looks like western Sydney is set to become a completely different place.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

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Prospect

From the Editor’s Desk By KeRRIE DAVIES

S many would know, sadly I lost my mother just before Christmas last year. While essentially she survived Lung Cancer following surgery, she passed away from a combination of health problems spearheaded by a horrible, dreadful thing with the acronym COPD, which in layman’s terms is basically emphysema. In the last year of her life she spent more time in hospital than out of it, and the hospital wards at Nepean - particularly the respiratory ward - were a real eye opener about the effects of smoking. Yes, yes I know not all people diagnosed with Lung Cancer are smokers or former smokers. But if you take a walk through that ward and have a bit of a chat with the guests staying in there, a common pattern does emerge. The vast majority of those suffering from various breathing-related illnesses including Pneumonia, COPD and Lung Cancer were... or are... smokers. If you’ve been smoking for a lot of years and witness this, chances are you’ll think “ahh well the damage is already done. It’s too late now.” I know this because I was in that group. I’d have dismissed the link like I did those pesky ads on TV because it’s “too late now.” I think the age-group to target is the teens. Forget the festering toe ads and the gangrene pics. How about walking kids through respiratory wards and let them see actual people relying on oxygen tanks to keep them alive. Let them hear the coughing, wheezing and choking. Show them the reality long before they will one day say “Ahh it’s too late now.” The patients I spoke to would have been more than happy to be part of a program that teaches impressionable teens the dangers of inhaling smoke. I think it’s something our governments should look into. Some things you see you can never un-see. For the record, it has been 79 days since I last smoked a bunger! Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Western News

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ederal Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP, has held a Greenway E-Safety Forum in Blacktown with the Australian e-Safety Commissioner, Julie Inman-Grant. The forum, held on Tuesday night at Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown, provided local parents, grandparents and teachers with valuable insights on safe online practices for children. The eSafety Commissioner covered the latest information about online threats and provided strategies for parents and teachers to use in talking to children and young people about online apps and activity. These strategies are designed help minimise the risk of cyberbullying, unwanted contact and other threats. “The digital age brings new opportunities for learning and communicating, but it also brings new challenges, especially for children. Promoting a safe environment for children online is incredibly important”, Federal Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland said. “It was very valuable for our local community to hear first-hand from the eSafety Commissioner and gain more understanding of the risks that young

Federal eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant presenting to the audience.

people can experience online,” Ms Rowland said. Any local residents who could not attend the forum, but would like a free copy of the eSafety Commissioner’s guide to online safety can contact Michelle Rowland’s office on 9671 4780 or at Michelle.Rowland.MP@ aph.gov.au to secure a copy.

Mr. Santo Passarello, Principal of Patrician Brothers’ College, Blacktown, Julie Inman Grant, Federal eSafety Commissioner and Michelle Rowland MP, Federal Member for Greenway.

Get creative for palliative care’s 20th birthday

o mark Mount Druitt Hospital supportive and palliative care unit’s 20th birthday on 19 June, the community is being invited to work together to create a mosaic masterpiece. The supportive and palliative care service provides care for adult patients over the course of their lifelimiting illness, as well as at the end of life. The unit was purpose-built on the grounds of Mount Druitt Hospital and officially opened in 1998. With the theme of ‘Healing in Nature’, patients, visitors, volunteers and staff are encouraged to celebrate the 20th birthday by participating in mosaic workshops to create artworks with guidance from local artist, Maryanne Rowley. The design will feature the unit’s logo with trees, flowers and birds surrounding it. The completed artwork will be unveiled during the unit’s 20th birthday celebrations on 22 June. It will then be permanently placed in the unit’s garden area. Palliative care volunteer manager Kylie Clark said the artistic commemoration piece will connect the local community with the unit. “We’re excited to be delivering a piece of history which can be enjoyed for many years to come,” Kylie said. Volunteers are invited to participate in upcoming workshops at the unit,

Mt Druitt Palliative care mosaic construction class. Left to right: Alison Yien Tee (Volunteer), Marianne Rowley (mosaic artist/instructor), Kylie Clark (Volunteer coordinator-paliative care), Cathy Birchall (Housing communities program-Bidwill uniting), Angie Vista (seated, blue polo shirt- Volunteer), Glenda Wright (volunteer coordinator, pal care), Maria Greenwood (volunteer), Lea Reeves (volunteer), Mary Vincent (volunteer), Debbie Duffel (volunteer), Katherine Dillingham (volunteer).

hosted by Bidwell Uniting. The first workshop was undertaken at the Supportive and Palliative Care Unit on Friday 9 March. Upcoming workshop dates are 15th, 22nd and 29th March, and 5th and 12th April from 9.30am to midday. Workshops are free with all material provided. Contact Kylie on 0427 70 596 for further information.

MARK YOUR DIARY ‘Roaring 20s Soiree’ party

When: From 6.30pm, Friday, 22 June 2018 Where: Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club, Luddenham Tickets: $65pp includes a buffet meal and entertainment. For enquiries, phone 9881 1695 or email Sonia.Hollands@health.nsw.gov.au

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

MP brings latest safety online info

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

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Western News

› Teens assaulted and robbed

Playgrounds set for upgrades

An investigating is underway after two teenage boys were assaulted and robbed last week. Police have been told two boys, aged 16 and 17, were in a carpark on White Hart Drive, Rouse Hill, just after 6pm on Friday when they were approached by four males. The 16-year-old boy was hit in the head, causing him to fall to the ground. Three of the males then assaulted the 17-year-old boy, who also fell to the ground, where the group continued to kick and punch him. A number of personal items including cash, mobile phones, shoes and jewellery were stolen from the two boys. The group fled the scene and were last seen running along White Heart Drive. About 8pm, both teenagers attended Castle Hill Police Station to report the incident. The pair were taken to Westmead Hospital for assessment of their injuries. Officers attached to The Hills Police Area Command have commenced inquiries into the incident.

Blacktown City Council is upgrading six playgrounds across the City as part of a $790,000 improvement project. The playgrounds are: • George Adler Reserve, Quakers Hill • Thomas Kelly Street Park, Lalor Park • Prospect Park, Prospect • Azzopardi Street Park, Glendenning • Doonside Heights Park, Doonside • Willmot Reserve, Willmot. Mayor of Blacktown City Stephen Bali said: “these seven playgrounds will provide valuable places for children of varying ages and abilities to play and learn”. “Playgrounds help bring the community together, improve our quality of life and allow for a range of skill development for our children. “Blacktown City recognises their importance by allocating funding to build new and improved play spaces for our community. “Construction work on the playgrounds is expected to begin in the coming months.” Mayor Bali said the community was consulted on the playground upgrades, with resident comments from completed online surveys informing the designs. “I thank everyone who had their say as part of the community consultation and worked with Council to ensure we designed the best play spaces possible,” he said.

An artist’s impressions of Prospect Park, Prospect. Source: Superplaygrounds.

An artist’s impression of Azzopardi Street Park, Glendenning. Source: Moduplay.

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Western News

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Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

Adopt a pet and change a life

ayor of Blacktown City Stephen Bali is encouraging animal lovers to adopt a pet from the Council’s Animal Holding Facility. Now the cat breeding season is well under way, Mayor Bali said there were a number of cats and kittens needing homes. “The number of cats coming into the AHF always increases at this time of year because their main breeding season runs from November to March,” he said. “We have about 20 cats and kittens ready for adoption right now, and there are more waiting in the wings to take their place. “I urge people thinking of getting a pet to seriously consider adopting from our Animal Holding Facility.” As well as cats and kittens, a litter of puppies is also ready for adoption. “Those choosing to take the step and adopt a four-legged friend will be spoilt for choice with the wide range of pets currently up for adoption,” Mayor Bali said. “But before coming in, we want you to be prepared to take care of the animal you decide to take home.” Mayor Bali said choosing to adopt a pet from the AHF is the ideal way

Mayor Stephen Bali and Animal Welfare Officer, Ildiko Szilagyi with the puppies up for adoption at the Animal Holding Facility.

to bring a furry friend into the family. “Not only will you get that fantastic feeling of knowing you have given an animal a new lease of life, but adopting a pet from the AHF will cost less than purchasing one from a pet shop or a breeder. “All animals for adoption at the AHF are available at very reasonable rates and all come with the complete package: they’re desexed, vaccinated,

vet health checked, microchipped and lifetime registered. “In addition, many come already trained and used to living with families, so you know you’ll get a happy, healthy pet.” Michelle Davis adopted a cat from the AHF recently and said she was thrilled with her decision. “We adopted ‘Tom’ after seeing his photo on the Facebook page and

falling in love with him,” she said. “We changed his name to Archibald Francis, aka Archie, and he is such a little cutie! “From the minute we brought him home he was so confident and sure of himself. He didn’t waste any time walking around our house and sussing out his spots. “He’s doing wonderfully and he is a very happy cat.”

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

local news

Western News

Blacktown’s diverse Women of the Year By Keegan Thomson

U D A N E S E r e f u g e e , international model and masters’ degree candidate Anyier Youl has been named the 2018 Blacktown Woman of the Year. Ms Youl, currently studying for a Masters of International Development in Refugees and Displacement at the University of NSW, works as a Youth Transition Support Worker with the Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) in Parramatta. A Blacktown local, she also has had success as a model, and is the first African woman to be featured on the cover of Lito Magazine. In accepting her award, Ms Youl said she was honoured to see so many diverse faces nominated for the award. “It never kicked in that the job that I do and what I do was recognised elsewhere, so when I got the phone call about the nomination it was a surprise,” Ms Youl said. “It gave me the motivation to really try to do well in the community and be the voice of young people and of refugees and [those from] migrant backgrounds who have moved to Australia with no English and no educational background. “To see the finalists that were nominated and to be the youngest one, I’m happy: it gives me the courage to do more and to inspire people,” she said.

Anyier Youl with Cr Julie Griffiths. Photo: Supplied.

Finalists in Blacktown’s Women of the Year awards included Harinder Kaur, Kylie Smith, Linda McDonald, Nalika Padmasena and Sonia Kalsi. Mrs Kaur started the Harman Foundation, with her husband, in 2013 after their son died in a motor vehicle accident. Her foundation aims to alleviate suffering in the multicultural community resulting from grief caused by uncontrollable events. Ms Smith is the founder of Embracing Arms, a not-for-profit community network organisation that offers support for women suffering from depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Currently they have over 500 members. Ms McDonald, a proud Indigenous

woman, coordinates the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) at a drop-in centre in Emerton, where anyone can come in for a yarn, participate in wellbeing programs and attend parenting groups. Ms Padmasena spent over a decade working as an anti-violence worker in the women’s health sector, implementing various innovative community education programs related to domestic violence, raising awareness in culturally and linguistically diverse communities in particular. Ms Kalsi works alongside families with young children who have recently migrated to Australia. The Kings Langley resident assists with case management for culturally and

linguistically diverse women who are referred by Blacktown Hospital because of complicated pregnancies or post-natal depression. Chairperson of the Women’s Advisory Committee, Councillor Julie Griffiths, said the council and the committee aims to further highlight the crucial role women play in Blacktown City. “We are a dynamic group of 20 women committed to providing a forum where issues and needs of women can be raised and discussed,” she said. “It’s with great pleasure that we present Anyier Youl with this award and to recognise the skills and progressive movements the nominees have achieved.”

› Emerton: two charged

Council workers get top nod

Two men have been charged over a string of break and enters, vehicle thefts, and other property related offences across the region. Police from Operation Countdown have been investigating the offences, which are alleged to have occurred from 10 February 2018 to 8 March 2018, in Hawkesbury, Blacktown, Mt Druitt and Nepean Police Area Commands. Following inquiries, about 7.10pm yesterday (Thursday 8 March 2018), police attended a home on Mendelssohn Avenue, Emerton, to arrest two men, aged 25 and 23. The men fled on foot. The younger man was arrested a short distance away and the older man was arrested about two hours later after several foot pursuits. The men were taken to Mt Druitt Police Station where the 25-year-old was charged with goods in custody, enter enclosed lands, and had three warrants executed. The 23-year-old was charged with aggravated break and enter, enter vehicle without consent of owner, enter enclosed lands, and detention application – arrest. They were both refused bail to appear at Mt Druitt Local Court. Operation Countdown is a North West Metropolitan Region initiative targeting property crime, including break and enter offences. Inquiries continue.

WO women who work for Blacktown Council have been awarded top honours at the NSW government Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government. Rae-Anne Young was given the award for Women in Traineeships or Apprenticeships in Metropolitan Councils award on the night and Carol Ashworth was given a high commendation for Non-Senior Staff Member in Metropolitan Council category. Minister for Local Government Gabrielle Upton and Minister for Women and MP for Mulgoa Tanya Davies joined this year’s winners at a ceremony at NSW Parliament House, to share their accomplishments and say ‘thank you’. The event was held in the Millicent PrestonStanley room of the NSW Parliament, named after the first woman elected to the Legislative Assembly in 1925. “The exceptional women recognised here today lead by example, not only in their workplaces but also in their communities and both are better for their contributions,’’ Ms Upton said. The awards were established in 2008 to recognise the outstanding efforts of women at the grassroots level of government in metropolitan and rural councils. Mrs Davies said the awards recognised women in leadership positions, those challenging the status quo in jobs such as engineering and, for

By Keegan Thomson

the first time this year, female trainees or apprentices. “The NSW Government is committed to striving for diversity and the promotion of careers in government and creating pathways for women once they get there,’’ Mrs Davies said. Mayor of Blacktown, and MP for Blacktown, Councillor Stephen Bali shone a light on the efforts of both Ms Young and Ms Ashworth. Cr Bali said it was great that Ms Young had been “singled out at the beginning of her professional career”. “She has been raising awareness of women’s health throughout all council staff, as well as raising awareness against violence towards women in her indigenous New Zealand community,” Cr Bali said. “Carol Ashworth is considered one of Australia’s leading community facility experts in what is often a male-dominated industry. “She was responsible for managing the design and delivery of a portfolio of $32 million worth of community buildings for the Council, which in turn won the 2016 UDIA Excellence in Government Leadership award for outstanding design and project management,” he said. It’s the second year in a row a Blacktown City Council staff member has taken out one of these awards. Last year electrician Marti Fletcher won the women in a non-traditional role category.

Western News

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ember for Riverstone, Mr Kevin Conolly MP hosted a visit by the NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian on Monday to see first-hand where a portion of the $52 million worth of construction works for schools in the Riverstone electorate will be used to upgrade Schofields Public School. The school is set to receive: • 26 brand new classrooms • new staff/admin area • new library • new amenities • upgraded canteen • new covered outdoor learning area (COLA). “I am delighted the Premier has taken a personal interest in seeing where these much needed funds will go towards meeting growing enrolment demand across the local area,” said Mr Conolly. The Premier and Mr Conolly met with the school principal, Colin Ross and students. Then they inspected the site where the new facilities will be built. “It is vitally important our local community has top-quality education resources for our students now and into the future and I’m pleased the NSW Government is delivering these resources” Mr Conolly said. ““NSW is in the midst of the biggest investment in public school infrastructure in the State’s history,” said Premier Berejiklian. “Schofields Public is one of more than 120 school building projects as part of the NSW Government’s record $4.2 billion investment in education over the next four years,” Premier Berejiklian said.

Proposed site plan of the upgrade to the Schofields Public School.

3D overview of the proposed upgrade to the Schofields Public School.

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

NSW Premier visits Schofields Public School

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

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Western News

Come rain, hail or shine

There are worse places to be stuck

Zeus’ temple through the zoom

Machu Picchu is down there somewhere By BEN CRANNEY

I passed through Athens recently. I was so excited, because it’s one of my favourite cities and I’d carefully planned my half day visit to cram in as much as possible. Turns out I had my decisions made for me. Just because it was a lowly 41 degrees, a ‘heatwave’, everything was shut.

They’d obviously never been to western Sydney in summer. I guess if I’m rational about it, it was a bit silly to be out in that temperature, risking heat stroke and eating piping hot gyros. But I wanted to see Zeus’ Temple again! I got there, and it was shut, and it got me thinking about the things that you experience because of events that are out of your control.

I’ve written about missing the sunrise over the top of Haleakala in Hawaii because of the mist, and missing the elephants in South Africa because the drought had forced them to look for food elsewhere. Sometimes, though, the weather spoils things, only to give you an unexpected and great memory. When sailing in the South Ionian sea, two meter swells and strong winds kept most of our flotilla in port. A couple of brave sailors went out to test their skills and a few hours later, one boat limped back in, struggling to keep course. The main sail was in tatters and the boom thrashed uncontrollably. My brother in law, a pirate in another life, put his rum down, powered out in the dingy and climbed aboard. With his knife between his teeth, he scaled the mast, cut the sail down and bought the boom under control. The deck now safe, he brought the boat in

before returning to his rum. Another time, we huddled at the top of Montana Picchu, the taller, lesser climbed mountain overlooking the Machu Picchu ruins. Wind and rain pounded us in a wallless hut, made worse from a lack of sleep from the 4am wakeup call. We waited for the sky to clear for the world class view. It didn’t. But we had fun, teeth chattering, while we whinged about the weather with new mates. Rough waves delayed our arrival to the Ko Phangan full moon party in Thailand, so our guides kept us entertained while running around holding exploding fireworks. Sleet kept me from paragliding in the Austrian Alps, but I got to explore the little mountain village instead. So keep an eye out for the unexpected experience. And thankfully, when I got to Ios, the weather was perfect. I’ll tell you about that another time.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel Sisters Under the Skin It doesn’t happen very often, but just occasionally I come across someone who loathes me at first sight. I don’t mean somebody who just doesn’t take a shine to me, I mean someone who is unbelievably hostile from the get go. I always think I am rather like a Golden Retriever. I bounce into a room, wagging my tail, grinning and eager to please and so when I come up against unbridled antagonism, I do tend to cower in a corner whimpering and not understanding why I have provoked such a reaction. I certainly don’t dwell on these matters, but one particular occasion does stick in my mind because it was related to my work. Back in my pre-David days, I was invited to a dinner party by some, as I thought, close friends. The evening started out reasonably well although one of the other guests was immediately quite confrontational towards me. Early on in the proceedings, it was mentioned that I was a clairvoyant. The lady fixed me with a gimlet glare. “For God’s sake, you don’t really believe in all that rot, do you?” Well obviously because that’s what I do. From that moment the knives were out. No matter what the subject we were discussing, she would turn to me and say, “Well, you wouldn’t understand. You’re only a clairvoyant.” I suppose I could have retaliated that she was only a housewife and that I was a highly qualified translator and interpretor, but it honestly didn’t seem worth the effort.

Since that time, I have found that people have rather mixed views about dealings with the Spirit World and so, very wrongly, I have sometimes been a little reluctant to get too involved. However, that is all changing now and it is quite amazing that once you start to talk about your beliefs, a lot of people are only too happy to be able to open up about their own experiences. Over the past few months, I have been asked by several people if I knew of a spiritual discussion group in the Hawkesbury. As I had never come across one, I had a word with my lovely friend Angelina and we decided that as there seemed to be a need , we should do something about it and so a

couple of weeks ago we had our first meeting of the Hawkesbury Spiritual Discussion Group at Ange’s fantastic Natural Therapies Centre* in Richmond. I think we were expecting one man and his dog to turn up, but the attendance was surprisingly good, especially for a first meeting. The main thing that came out of this was, if you will forgive the pun, the great lightening of spirit experienced by those present in being able to share their experiences. Our topic was The Role Spirit Plays in Our Lives and one by one the girls were opening up, usually preceded by the phrase, “Well, I’m not really psychic but…” Their stories were incredible and we all left with such a bond between us of having acknowledged the existence of the Spirit World and having had the opportunity for discussion between like-minded people. We need to talk about Spirit in order for them to help us and so we will continue to hold our discussion groups. The next one will be on Friday 13th April again at the Natural Therapies Centre. Check us out on Facebook and do join us. We need to have a voice and not be cowed by confrontation. We need to stand up for what we believe in. If only I had a time machine, I would certainly go back and put that “lady” in her place. *Hawkesbury Natural Therapies Centre, Level 1, 187 Windsor Street, Richmond. Tel: 4578 8868 The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

WESTERN HISTORY

The Story of Arthur Bristol (1808 – 1884) By Paul Wheeldon

the tropical north with the view to finding a large stream flowing northwards to the Gulf of Carpentaria, providing a transport corridor his time it was considered that would facilitate trade with Asia, notably “unsafe to send him back to the the sale of horses to India. Taken with them stockade”, so he was transferred were eight drays drawn by 80 bullocks, two to the Cockatoo Island iron gang where he detachable boats, 17 horses, three light carts, remained for the next two and a half years, 120 sheep and over a ton of food including labouring daily in irons under conditions concentrated soup, flour, ham, bacon, tea, every bit as harsh and as horrific as he sugar etc. They followed the Bogan river had ever experienced. This settlement beyond Nyngan and the limits of settlement, was established by Governor Gipps in but soon encountered “great distress from 1839 specifically for prisoners withdrawn want of water” and the death of many of the from Norfolk Island, and considered safe bullocks from thirst. An armed guard was because of its surrounding deep water. needed to protect their encampments from The prisoners here were engaged in the aboriginal attacks. During the early months of re-roofing of the guard house and soldiers’ 1846, with weather improving, they followed barracks, and in excavating and dressing the Macquarie, Darling, Narran and Balonne stone for new cells, a new wharf and new rivers northwards. At the Miranoa river a depot barracks. They also made carts, barrows, was established under Kennedy’s charge, while picks and shovels, buckets, bolts, nails Mitchell, with Bristol and nine others, explored and other assorted hardware. The inferior further northwards to the Belyando river and quality of the food, especially the meat and across the Tropic of Capricorn. Scouting bread, was a constant source of complaint westwards they then found a large stream and protest. Illnesses such as dysentery flowing north-westwards which Mitchell were rife. Frequent attempted escapes and  Jane Bristol jubilantly but wrongly assumed would provide attacks by prisoners on each other and a direct approach to the Gulf. He named it the Victoria, not knowing on their overseers invoked solitary confinement, floggings or heavy that it was a tributary of Coopers Creek, draining into Lake Eyre. It irons. was renamed the Barcoo by Kennedy during further explorations the In December 1843 approval was given for a remission of Bristol’s following year. Low in rations and believing his mission was done, two years and nine months sentence due to “having conducted Mitchell turned his party homewards, reaching Sydney by January himself with the utmost propriety since his arrival on the island”. 1847. Although the expedition failed in its primary objective, it did Consequently he was taken from Cockatoo Island and assigned serve to open up for pastoral occupation a large area of good land in to the engineers’ boat crews at Sydney. However, within a year he what is now central and southern Queensland. relapsed by absenting himself from duty, assaulting another person Mitchell had high praise for the conduct of the convicted men in his at Dodrey’s pub at Rushcutters Bay, and stealing eight pounds and a party and immediately recommended to Governor Fitzroy the award case of surgeon’s instruments. For this he was given 14 days solitary of a Conditional Pardon with a gratuity of one pound for each of confinement back on Cockatoo Island where articles of equipment them. Consequently Bristol was granted his Ticket of Leave (Bathurst were now being made for the planned expedition of exploration to district) in February 1847. The Conditional Pardon, having to be tropical Australia under the leadership of Surveyor-General, Sir processed by the British Colonial Office, took a little longer. It was Thomas Mitchell. A very significant stroke of good fortune then came granted in June 1848. Bristol’s way, when he was selected to accompany this exploring To be continued next issue.... party, probably because of his special skills as a boatman. He was References to this history have been obtained from State Records now 37 years old and, despite his ordeals, apparently in good health. NSW, BD&M’s and family records. Additionally I would like Mitchell’s party, with Edmund Kennedy second in command and 27 to thank Brad. Gorham, another descendant, who initiated this others (the majority of them convicts, including Bristol), left from massive search on Arthur Bristol’s life. Boree near Orange in December 1845. Their mission was to explore Continued from last issue...

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

CONVICT Extraordinaire

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

ENTERTAINMENT

Western News

Black comedy at Riverside By Keegan Thomson

MT DRUITT local has penned a smash hit theatre production for the Sydney Theatre Company called, Black is the New White, with the show coming to western Sydney for a select run of special performances. Nakkiah Lui, a Gamilaroi Torres Strait Islander woman, grew up in Mt Druitt and stars in the ABC TV series, Black Comedy. Ms Lui wrote the sold-out romantic comedy, Black is the New White which is coming to Parramatta’s Riverside Theatre from March 21 to March 24. It is exciting to see a western suburbs local bring her play back to its home. Black is the New White has been receiving rave reviews from the Sydney Morning Herald and the Daily Telegraph. Black is the New White follows the story of Charlotte Gibson, a lawyer with a brilliant career ahead of her. Her father Ray says she could be a prominent female Aboriginal TV commentator. But she has other ideas. First of all, it’s Christmas. Second of all, she’s in love. The thing is, her fiancé, Francis

Smith, is not what her family expected – he’s unemployed, he’s an experimental classical composer… and he’s white! Inviting him and his conservative parents to Christmas is a bold move that has all sorts of unintended consequences. Secrets are revealed, prejudices outed and old rivalries get sorted through. With a toe-tapping soundtrack and an array of brilliant, eccentric, loveable characters, this is a great night in the theatre and a thoroughly beguiling, and very Australian story. Directed by Sydney Theatre Company’s former Richard Wherrett Fellow, Paige Rattray, the cast also includes Tony Briggs, Luke Carroll, Geoff Morrell and Shari Sebbens, with set and costumes by former Resident Designer Renée Mulder. Black is the New White has four 8pm evening performances from March 21 to March 24 and a 2pm matinee on March 24. Tickets can be booked through https:// riversideparramatta.com.au/show/ black-is-the-new-white or by calling the box office 8839 3399. Head on over to the Western News facebook page for your chance to win a double pass to the opening night of Black is the New White.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Salve (8) 5 Bequeathed (6) 9 Thrashes (8) 10 Tame (6) 12 Parts of plants that are under the soil (5) 13 English and French, for example (9) 14 Published (6) 16 Urine container (7) 19 Winged monster (7) 21 Moves stealthily (6) 23 A formal party (9) 25 Blunder (5) 26 Induces vomiting (6) 27 Flying (8) 28 Name derived from the name of a person (6) 29 Working in a job (8)

solution 2/3/18

down 1 Exclaim (6) 2 Anxiously (9) 3 Fogs (5) 4 Goaded (7) 6 Immunize (9) 7 Telling untruths (5) 8 Chest of drawers (8) 11 Round handle (4) 15 Sadly (9) 17 Moral perversion (9) 18 Break the heart of (8) 20 Fastener of wood (4) 21 Reassert (7) 22 Decided innocence or guilt (6) 24 System of beliefs (5) 25 Make rotten (5)

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

Western News

Top ways to cut your expenses and increase your savings

s the key to saving a home deposit as simple as giving up smashed avo toast for breakfast? Well not quite, but spending less does make a difference. On top of a budget, a savings plan and strategies such as a high-interest savings account, an effective way to save is to reduce or eliminate expenses. Start by understanding your spend It can be easy to lose track of how you’re spending money, especially due to cashless payments and credit cards. Many online banking systems include tools to categorise debits and make a budget – take advantage of them. Or download an app that helps you track your personal expenses on the go, like ASIC’s TrackMySPEND. Find savings in the essentials Some costs can’t be avoided – but many everyday expenses can be reduced. For example you could: • Move in with your parents/ relatives, or move into a cheaper rental

or share house (short-term discomfort can pay off in the long term). • Implement tactics like meal planning, making grocery lists and buying in bulk to save money on food. Set aside a budget for eating out/takeaway and stick to it. • Shop around to reduce your regular bills – you may get better value if you switch, or tell current providers you intend to switch. Seek discounts for taking out multiple policies with one insurer. • Use the car less: take public transport; carpool with colleagues; or try walking or riding. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it all adds up to savings. Make sure you’re paying off debts or credit cards completely each month or as much as possible, to avoid the added expense of paying interest. Reduce common overspending If you spend excessively on things like buying clothes, going out or expensive hobbies, it may be unrealistic to cut the expense entirely.

Set a weekly or monthly limit and reduce that limit over time. A survey of more than 1000 Australians showed that 73 per cent have a problem with overspending. In particular, people tend to go overboard when Christmas rolls around. To reduce gift expenses, be like Santa: make a list (and a budget). Buy only planned items within your allocated budget – then stop! Ask your family for support; it’s easier to put a cap on gift values if everyone else does too. Another common way Aussies overspend is on holidays. Commonwealth Bank research reveals Aussies making costly mistake by not budgeting for holidays and shows that a third of holidaymakers spent more on their trip than planned. Do your research and set a daily budget. Costs that could be eliminated Look for opportunities to eliminate costs. Cancel unused services. Update your internet or mobile plans if you’re

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always paying for excess data. Ask yourself: are you really using that gym membership? Are you getting value from your subscriptions? Remember, every wasted dollar is money you could be spending on your own home. Talk to Wealthwiz who can organise a home loan health check to help you understand what your home loan options, borrowing capacity as well as guiding you through the process. To arrange a free home loan review contact Alex Soncini on 0419 600 177 or alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au.

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Western News

SPORT

defender’s shot being deflected into the side netting with Pasfield left unsighted and stranded. Blacktown City striker Joey Gibbs had a late chance with a free kick however it was comfortably saved by Pasfield. The Wolves goalkeeper wasn’t done however with an excellent save to stop a powerful Mallia shot late into the second half. With 15 minutes remaining Araujo saw his second booking of the afternoon for a reckless challenge. Having already been booked in the first half for a late tackle the midfielder earned himself an inevitable early shower. Blacktown then went into defensive mode with 10-men eliminating any chances the Wolves threw at them to maintain a draw and grab a point for the start of the season. Mark Crittenden, the Blacktown City Manager was happy with his side’s opening performance away from home. “I was really happy with the way we played to be fair,” he said. “I don’t think they created too many chances on goal, they certainly had a bit of possession but when you come down here it’s a big pitch with a lot of open space so I thought we set up well. “Probably the only thing we didn’t get today was a goal. I thought the boys did well towards the end with a oneman disadvantage and to still look for a winner with Pasfield pulling off a great save while we were down to ten.”

By CONNER LOWE

SUDOKU: EASY

WORD SEARCH

lacktown City went into their first match of the season against the Wollongong Wolves as favourites after dominating displays last season and a good preseason under their belt. The Wolves went into the match looking for their first win over Blacktown City since 2010. The match started off very even with the Wolves defence looking solid with former A-League star Nick Montgomery controlling the defence. Both sides had half chances to open the scoring within the opening half an hour but some excellent goal keeping from both ends resulted in a scoreless first half. Around the half hour mark Quivui Fowler created Wolves’ first quality chance of the match with a ball delicately floated over Blacktown City’s defence. Tashiro a former Kashima Antlers attacker controlled the ball well on his chest only to have his shot smothered by Tristan Prendergast. Both teams then struggled to make many opportunities from open play, leaving both teams relying on dead ball situations. The Wolves came the closest with Nozawa hitting the post from a free kick and Blacktown City also coming close with Pasfield forced into tipping over a strong shot from Mitch Mallia. The following corner found Giorgio Speranza on the edge of the box, with the

SOLUTION: 2 March

HEAD BRAIN

EYELIDS

NECK

CHEEKS

EYES

NOSE

CHIN

FOREHEAD

SCALP

EARS

HAIR

SKULL

EYEBROWS

LIPS

TEETH

EYELASHES

MOUTH

TONGUE

INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

Western News 16 March 2018 Issue 55

Blacktown City held by Wolves in season opener

Western News Friday, 16 March 2018

SPORT

Western Sydney Wanderers claim inaugural Sister Cities Shield

he pride of Blacktown is intact with the Western Sydney Wanderers claiming the inaugural Sister Cities Shield in their 4–1 win over Wellington Phoenix on Saturday. The scores teams were level at 1-1 at half time before the Wanderers dominated with three unanswered goals in the second half. The Wanderers win was a great win for their spiritual home in Blacktown City, with the Phoenix fighting hard on field for Porirua City, neighbours near of Wellington in New Zealand. Stephen Bali, the Mayor of Blacktown City was joined by Councillor Mike Tana, Mayor of Porirua, on the field to present the winning captain, Mark Bridge with the Shield. “The Sister Cities Shield is a great way to celebrate the 34-year relationship between Blacktown City and the great City of Porirua,” Stephen said. “The love and passion both cities have for sport is without question and was on show for all to see with a passionate and exciting game of football between the Wanderers and Phoenix.” “It is clear that both these clubs have a great appreciation for the support and relationship with their local cities and communities.” Mike Tana, the Mayor of Porirua enjoyed the good-hearted rivalry between the two cities which will stay on the football field. “Although we didn’t get to take home the Sister Cities Shield, both Blacktown and Porirua are winners off the field through the fantastic benefits that the Sister Cities partnership brings to both

Winning captain Mark Bridge presented with inaugural Sister Cities Shield: Credit Steve Christo. Left to Right: Western Sydney Wanderers FC Captain Mark Bridge, Mayor of Blacktown City Councillor Stephen Bali MP, Mayor of Porirua Councillor Mike Tana, Western Sydney Wanderers FC Board Member David Slade & Wellington Phoenix FC General Manager David Dome.

cities and will do for many years to come,” he said. Mayor Tana has also experienced the variety of Blacktown City’s sporting and leisure facilities during his visit, attending the AFL JLT Pre-Season

game between the GWS Giants and Sydney Swans at Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney and also a tour of Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope & Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope.