Western News 1 May 2026

Community marks next chapter of Blacktown’s city centre

HUNDREDS of local residents, workers and families gathered at the Village Green to mark the start of works on Blacktown Quarter, signalling a major step forward in the revitalisation of Blacktown’s city centre.

The Blacktown Community KickOff event, gave the community an opportunity to meet the team behind the project, view the latest plans and hear what’s ahead as site works get underway.

Delivered by Walker in partnership with Blacktown City Council, Blacktown Quarter will transform the city centre into a more connected, walkable and vibrant destination for Western Sydney.

Walker Group Executive of Development Jessica Jordan said the strong turnout reflected the community’s interest in the future of their city centre.

“This is a long-term investment in Blacktown’s future, and with community feedback shaping the Blacktown Quarter masterplan it was great to see so many people come down, ask questions and engage with the masterplan,” Ms Jordan said.

“Blacktown is growing quickly so

it’s exciting to see Blacktown Quarter move into the next phase of the project, creating new public spaces, better connections and more reasons for people to spend time in the city centre.”

Blacktown Mayor Brad Bunting said the project represents an important step forward for the city.

“This is exactly the kind of investment we want to see in Blacktown. Our city is growing quickly and Blacktown Quarter will help our city centre grow

as a place people want to spend time in, while supporting thousands of jobs and contributing nearly $1 billion a year to the local economy. This will be a terrific boost, and we think more investment is sure to follow.”

“It was great to see hundreds of residents, workers and local businesses take part in the Community KickOff. That level of interest shows how much people care about the future of our city centre, and it was a valuable opportunity for the community to see

the plans and speak directly with the team delivering the project.”

Attendees enjoyed complimentary food, family-friendly activities and a series of activations, including a football challenge with players from Blacktown City FC, whilst also speaking directly with the project team.

Blacktown Quarter will deliver new public spaces, improved connections and a mix of commercial, retail and community uses, supporting jobs and long-term economic growth in the region.

Early works are now underway, with further updates to be shared with the community as the project progresses.

Learn more and stay up to date with the latest project news via the project website: www.blacktownquarter. com.au/

Blacktown Festival Comedy Night

BLACKTOWN Festival Comedy Night is bringing a huge lineup of comedians to the stage for one unforgettable night of non-stop laughs.

This is your chance to catch some of Australia’s top comedy talent all in one place, including headline act Joe Avati, joined by a stellar lineup of comedians ready to bring the house down.

 Friday 8 May

 8.00 pm – 10.30 pm

 Tickets are on sale now, get in quick before they sell out!

 Blacktown Workers Club

Round up your friends and get ready for a night of big laughs… this one’s strictly 18+ and not to be missed!

To find out more visit, https:// shorturl.at/BNGQM

Local children share the Anzac spirit at hospital commemorations

LOCAL childcare centres joined Anzac Day commemorations in Western Sydney Local Health District and embodied the spirit of mateship, camaraderie and remembrance.

Hospital staff, patients and visitors paused to remember and reflect at Anzac Day commemorations at Auburn, Blacktown, Mount Druitt and Westmead Hospitals. Those who were able took a moment from their busy day to remember the 103,000 Australians who sacrificed their lives in our country’s name.

The National Day of Commemoration marks the day when Australian and New Zealand soldiers first landed on the shores of Gallipoli in 1915.

111 years on, and the spirit of Anzac lives on in the hospitals’ partnerships with the on-site childcare centres at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.

For 6 years, the Coolamon Cottage Childcare Centre at Blacktown has brought some of the centre’s older children to the hospital commemoration service to lay a wreath at the epitaph..

Alison Boston, Manager of Coolamon Cottage, said it’s a wonderful way for the children to engage with Anzac Day who may not be up to attending a dawn service.

The kids really enjoy it and it’s a great avenue for us to teach them about Australian history, sacrifice, bravery and mateship, Alison said.

“

She says it’s one of the ways the children interact with the concept of Anzac Day, through activities and of course, biscuits.

“We have several conversations and learning stations set up at the centre for children to engage with Anzac Day,” Alison said.

Inner Wheel Club of Blacktown City

 Welcomes new friends

 Empowers women

 Helps our community

At Mount Druitt, the children laid wreaths alongside District nurse and member of the Australian Defence Force, Lieutenant John Timotheus.

Gary Raymond is the Padre at the City of Blacktown RSL sub-branch and said the participation of the youngsters embodies the phrase ‘Lest we forget’.

For those who weren’t involved and don’t know about Anzac Day, we want to give them a memory about it, so they don’t forget, Gary said.

“

 Promotes international understanding

Our Club events for 2026 include: March

• Guest speaker from Girl Guides

• Blacktown Show lunches for volunteers

• Trivia with Baulkham Hills Club

• Blacktown Library cabinet display

• Friendship morning tea at Lakes of Cherrybrook April

• Hawkesbury Race Day

• Sydney Cord Blood Bank Tour Randwick

• Cord Blood Research coffee and walk Norwest Lake May

• Bunnings Blacktown BBQ

• Mother’s Day Stall Seven Hills

Contact us Email iiw.au.blacktowncity@gmail.com

He says the role of organisations and services across the country is to provide everyone in Australia a memory and connection with Anzac Day, regardless of whether they were born here or know someone who served.

“We all have busy lives but during the service, everyone stopped to remember,” Gary said.

More than two million people have served our country in conflicts, wars and peace operations since 1914.

James Nol is one of those, who served for 31 years in the Army and currently works at Blacktown Hospital as the Medical Imaging Operations Director.

He says it’s everyone’s role to ensure the lessons and pain of past wars aren’t forgotten.

Our job is to make sure Anzac Day stays alive in their minds, James said.

“

Western NEWS

Editor:

General Manager: Sales: Sales:

Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer:

Letters to the Editor: Web:

Distribution Map

Western News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy

FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644

Bart Bassett 0412 955 745

Bart Bassett 0412 955 745

Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777

Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202

Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893

Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown

nepeannews@aol.com

https://issuu.com/nepeannews

From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

ON May 10 we celebrate Mother’s Day. It is an opportunity to show our mums how much we love and appreciate everything that they do, and the unconditional love that comes with it.

Being a mum can sometimes be a thankless job. Children are quite often the source of a mother’s greatest joys but also the greatest heartaches.

A simple smile from her child can dazzle a mother’s world. A sharp word from the same child can shatter her heart.

As someone who has to face Mother’s Day without my mum, I hope you’ll allow me to give a gentle reminder to those of you who still have your mum here.

Make every single day with her count.

The pain of losing your mother is something that is so intense it is indescribable. We never really prepare for the enormity of losing a parent.

It is the loss of so many things; the security that mums provide as the person who loves you no matter what, warts and all. It is the loss of the person who is more interested in your life than anyone else on the planet. It is the loss of the bond you share that is stronger than any force in the universe.

It rips your heart out when the realisation hits that they are gone. Forever.

It is then that you begin to miss absolutely everything, even the annoying things. I’d give anything now to answer my phone to my mum nagging me about something. I’d now relish the opportunity to get up from relaxing to run some errand that is hard for her to do herself. And I’d give every material possession I have if I could exchange them for just one hug from her.

If you are lucky enough to still have your mum with you, start from this Mother’s Day forward to appreciate her every single day. Tell her you love her at every single opportunity.

When she needs assistance remember that when you were the little one needing help, she did it without question. When she nags you, see it for what it is and be glad of it - it is concern for the welfare of her greatest treasure, you. And remember that a smile or a snarl can make or break her day.

Happy Mother’s Day

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

In memory of Chris Quilkey

IT was with great sadness that we learned that former Blacktown City Deputy Mayor and Councillor Chris Quilkey has passed away.

First and foremost, our thoughts are with Chris’s family, friends and all those who knew him.

Chris was first elected to Blacktown City Council in 2016 and served for 2 terms, including as Deputy Mayor and, for a period, as Acting Mayor.

A resident of Quakers Hill, he served the community he loved with energy and commitment. An engaged and energetic presence at Council, he focused on representing residents and supporting the City during a period of growth.

Chris had a long record of public service. He worked in policy and legislative roles across the NSW public sector, including in Corrective Services NSW, the Crown Solicitor’s Office and the Attorney General’s Department.

He was also active locally as a junior sports coach and trainer.

Chris made a strong contribution to Council’s work through several committees, including as Chair of the Companion Animals Advisory Committee. He also represented Blacktown at a regional level through the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC).

A passionate advocate for Blacktown City, he believed strongly in the role of local government to improve people’s lives.

He recognised the diversity of our city and the importance of supporting a growing population.

He focused on practical improvements that mattered to residents, including local infrastructure such as bus shelters that support everyday life.

Those who worked with Chris knew him as someone who understood people. He valued the connections that bring a place like Blacktown City together and the role Council plays in supporting them.

He was loved by his community, and he loved it back.

He will be remembered for his service and his contribution to Blacktown City.

Opal overhaul gives a million concessions

ALMOST a million public transport passengers are getting a much more convenient way to claim their concession, pensioner or seniors fares - and their lower weekly cap - under a digital upgrade to the Opal network.

Concession Opal or Gold Senior/ Pensioner Opal fares can currently only be accessed by tapping on with a physical Opal concession card.

In many cases, those eligible to claim a concession fare are instead using contactless payments for the convenience and forgoing the discount.

Under changes announced by the Minns Labor Government, 40,000 TAFE students and apprentices, 130,000 university students and jobseekers and 800,000 seniors and pensioners, will soon be able link a credit or debit card to their travel concession to enjoy discounted fares using their phone, watch or digital device.

Modelling by Transport for NSW, predicts 70 per cent of TAFE and university students, apprentices and jobseekers will use contactless concessions and between 30-40 per cent of seniors and pensioners.

The upgrades will be rolled out gradually from 16 April.

Amid higher petrol prices and other cost-of-living pressures, there has been a recent spike in public transport patronage, and this upgrade will make it easier for seniors, pensioners and concessions to access the reduced fares they are entitled to claim.

Adult fares are capped at $50 weekly, Concessions and Child/Youth at $25, and a $2.50 daily cap is in place for Senior/Pensioner travellers – meaning

once you hit those caps, your trips are free.

On Fridays, weekends, public holidays and outside peak times, fares are 30 per cent cheaper on metro, train, bus and light rail services.

“This is a timely tech innovation that will make getting through the ticket gates or past the Opal reader that much more convenient for close to a million people and help them save on fares,” the Minister said.

a very real saving for passengers on our network. Adults don’t pay more than $50 a week, concession fares are capped at $25, and seniors don’t pay more than $2.50 a day – or $17.50 a week if they travel seven days a week.”

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said it is a practical change that will make a real difference to thousands of TAFE and university students and apprentices across NSW.

“When you’re studying, training or starting out in your career every dollar counts and this upgrade makes it easier to access the concessions people are entitled to,” Minister Whan said.

“Our government is focused on making life easier and more affordable for people gaining skills and training for the jobs of the future. This is a smart and modern reform that puts convenience and cost savings directly into the hands of students and apprentices.”

Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said it is an exciting upgrade that means Sydney will soon surpass other world cities like London, Paris and New York as leading the way in advanced contactless payment options for more passenger groups.

The upgrades are part of the NSW Government’s major public transport ticketing overhaul – Opal Next Gen. Minister for Transport John Graham said as cost-of-living pressures bite hard, and more people are using the public transport system.

“Our modelling suggests the majority of apprentices, university and TAFE students and jobseekers will switch to contactless concessions which shows the appetite out there for digital payments.

“The daily and weekly fare caps are

“It means 970,000 more passengers, including tertiary and TAFE students, trainees and apprentices, seniors, and pensioners will soon have the choice to tap into the ease of Contactless Concessions and ditch their physical Opal card, without losing their discount,” he said.

“We know plenty of our passengers still love their physical Opal card – and it’s not going anywhere. This is about giving people more options, so they can choose public transport more often.”

Feel the rhythm, soak up the sunshine at Vibes by the Lake

Tallawong students move into permanent site

THE Minns Labor Government states it is delivering on its promise to build world-class schools in Sydney’s growing suburbs, with the fast-tracked Tallawong Public School open in its brand new, permanent home.

This is one of 230 new schools, public preschools and major upgrades currently being delivered across NSW by the Minns Labor Government through a record $9 billion commitment to rebuild public education, including $3.9 billion for projects in western Sydney.

The new Tallawong Public School will accommodate 600 students, with 24 permanent classrooms, three support learning classrooms, a hall, library and canteen, sports court and play areas.

The opening of this permanent school will also enable the removal of 15 demountables at Riverstone Public School that were used as a temporary school which was fast tracked to address the demand for public education in the booming North West.

“The enrolment growth audit found that while the top 10 student growth areas were all located in Sydney’s North-West and South-West, the former government had neglected the needs of these booming communities, cramming local students into ever-

growing demountables,” the NSW Government stated in a press release.

“The Minns Labor Government is addressing this through the delivery of a historic number of new and upgraded schools recently delivered or on the way across Sydney’s North West, adding capacity for an additional 15,000 public school students in the region by 2028 which will see more than 160 demountables replaced with more than 700 permanent classrooms.”

Major projects recently delivered or on the way in Sydney’s north-west include:

• New high school in Tallawong

• New high school in Jordan Springs

• New public primary school and public preschool in Grantham Farm

• New Gables Public School and public preschool

• New Box Hill Public School and public preschool

• New Box Hill High School

• Schofields Public School – upgrade (delivered)

• Riverbank Public School – upgrade (delivered)

• The Ponds High School – upgrade

• Rouse Hill High School – upgrade

• Excelsior Public School – upgrade

These new and upgraded schools are in addition to school projects at Nirimba Fields and Melonba that were also fast-tracked to open early in

temporary facilities as part of the 2023 election commitment, with Melonba Public School opening in its permanent facilities at the start of 2025.

“The Government has also delivered the biggest pay rise in a generation to attract the best teachers and keep them in the classroom, resulting in teacher vacancies falling to the lowest level in 12 years, halving the number of merged and cancelled classes since being elected.

“This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to deliver better schools and more teachers to give our kids the world class education they deserve, right where they live.”

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said, “every child in this state deserves access to a world-class public school close to home which is exactly what we’re delivering through new and upgraded schools, as well as more teachers in our classrooms.”

“For too long, families in Sydney’s north-west were promised schools that never came despite thousands of new homes being built. We are changing that,” Mr Minns said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said it is a commitment to highquality education.

“The new permanent Tallawong Public School is not just bricks and mortar – it’s a commitment to every family in this community that they will

Local infrastructure grants in Mount Druitt

EXPRESSIONS of interest (EOIs) are officially open for the NSW’s Government’s Community Building Partnership (CBP) grants program, with $450,000 available for Mount Druitt.

The $41 million program ensures local organisations and councils across the state have the facilities to support more vibrant and inclusive communities. Not-for-profit community organisations and local councils are invited to complete an EOI for grants between $10,000 and $100,000 to bring local projects to life.

“In Mount Druitt, we are looking for projects that will help to strengthen community infrastructure and support multicultural communities and new migrants, including upgrades to community centres, places of worship

and cultural hubs,” Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla MP said.

“These grants will also focus on promoting healthy, active lifestyles through improved sporting and recreational facilities, as well as infrastructure for children, young people and people with disability. Projects that enhance community wellbeing, safety and resilience, such as accessibility improvements, lighting, shade and climate-responsive infrastructure, will also be supported.”

This year, the 2026 CBP grants round will use a two-stage application process, beginning with an expression of interest. Interested organisations and councils are encouraged to apply before EOIs close at 5pm on Friday, 8 May. Shortlisted EOIs will be contacted by the end of June 2026,

with successful grants to be awarded in early 2027.

“The Community Building Partnership program is designed to fund meaningful local projects in our community - things like refurbishing sports grounds and clubhouses, making community halls more accessible, or improving our public spaces, Mr Atalla said.

“With $450,000 available across Mount Druitt, this funding can help with facility upgrades, building works or new equipment that strengthens our local community. “I encourage not-forprofit community organisations with an idea to improve their community infrastructure to submit an expression of interest before 8 May.”

Since 2009, the CBP program has awarded more than $505 million

have access to high-quality education,” Ms Car said.

“We inherited an infrastructure backlog that left students crammed into demountables for years. We are hard at work to fix it, school by school, classroom by classroom, and communities like Tallawong are starting to see the results.”

Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby said families in Tallawong have waited a long time for a permanent public school here in this growing suburb, and today that wait is over.

“The enrolment growth audit conducted by the Minns Labor Government identified population growth in Tallawong as being more than three times the projected growth and highlighted the need for new school infrastructure in our area,” Mr Kirby said.

“This is a proud moment for our community and proof that when we invest in public education, we invest in the future of every child.”

Tallawong Public School Principal Julie Grennard was excited about the opening.

“As the foundation Principal of Tallawong Public School, it’s been a privilege to be a part of our school’s journey from the very start,” Ms Grennard said.

“I’m incredibly excited to reach this final milestone together as we transition into our new permanent home.”

to over 22,400 community projects across NSW. Local not-for-profit community organisations and councils are eligible to apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, with up to $450,000 allocated per electorate. For more information, visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw. gov.au/cbp

Catholic Care welcomes new government partnership to keep families together

CATHOLIC Care Western

Sydney and the Blue Mountains (WSBM) has welcomed the opportunity to continue its mission of supporting vulnerable children and families across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, with the expansion and extension of its partnership with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).

Catholic Care WSBM has been selected to deliver its comprehensive Families Together program - an important initiative focused on keeping children safe at home by strengthening family relationships and building long-term stability within local communities.

According to DCJ, the “primary objective of Family Preservation is to keep children safe at home with their families, and prevent removal, placement in out-of-home care (OOHC), and future contact with the child protection system. Family Preservation also aims to support children and families to achieve wider social benefits, including better educational attainment and improved health and wellbeing indicators.”

Catholic Care WSBM’s Families Together program plays a critical role in walking alongside families experiencing complex challenges across the rapidly growing and

multicultural communities of Western Sydney. The program provides early intervention, practical support, and compassionate care aimed at creating safe and nurturing environments where children and their families feel supported, can address concerns and reduce the number of children entering care.

“Our Families Together program

reflects a shared commitment between Catholic Care WSBM and DCJ to place children’s wellbeing at the centre, while recognising the dignity and potential of every family,” said Helen Emmerson, Managing Director of Catholic Care WSBM.

“Keeping families together safely has been our focus for the last few years, and I am pleased to expand

our services to the many people who require our help. Last year alone, we supported over 510 clients across our whole Family Services – most from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and First Nations families.

“There is a real need in the community, which is why Families Together will provide tailored, strengths-based support, helping families address immediate concerns while also building the skills and confidence needed for long-term stability,” she said.

Fr Fernando Montano, the Episcopal Vicar for Social Services, highlighted the strong alignment of the program with the Church’s mission in local communities.

“In Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, we see both incredible strength and real need within families. This program reflects the Church’s ongoing commitment to accompanying people in those moments of difficulty, and to ensuring that families are supported to grow in safety, dignity, and hope.”

The partnership with the DCJ is for another five years allowing for growth and stability of the Families Together program to ensure that children are supported to remain safe, connected, and nurtured within their homes.

Early works to begin on Bandon Rd

ACRITICAL upgrade will kick off next week at the Bandon Road and Riverstone Parade intersection near Vineyard train station.

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are jointly funding $150 million in planning and early works for the Bandon Road Upgrade, which is part of the North West Growth Centre Road Network Strategy.

The early works package includes a new car park with more than 70 spaces, upgraded bus stops, improved pedestrian access, lighting, and key safety improvements at the intersection to support future duplication.

The governments state these upgrades will make it safer and easier for locals to access Vineyard Station and move through the area.

“The works will support the delivery of a future upgrade of Bandon Road, to ease congestion and support the growth of new homes for families in the North West,” it was stated in a press release.

“The Bandon Road Upgrade, currently in planning with the $150 million in joint funding, envisages a new four-lane road, a new underpass below the railway line, shared pedestrian and cycle paths, improved flood evacuated routes and better connections for local communities.”

Federal Infrastructure, Transport,

Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King spoke of the investment.

“In partnership with the Minns Government we are investing in the future infrastructure needs of communities, like here in Sydney’s growing North West,” Minister King said.

“We want to ensure that people can get around efficiently and get home safely whether they’re walking, driving or taking public transport.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said this is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state.

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering the infrastructure Western Sydney needs and deserves - so families can spend less time in traffic and more time at home, getting where they need to go, safely and on time,”

Minister Atchison said.

“These early works are an important first step towards the future duplication of Bandon Road, which will become a critical arterial road connection in the North West.”

Federal Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland said commitments are being delivered on.

“These works are a clear sign that we are delivering on our commitment to upgrading local transport links, reducing congestion and building a better future for North West Sydney,” Ms Rowland said.

“The Albanese and Minns Labor governments are working together to ensure local residents can spend less time in traffic and more time with their families.”

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman said the start of early works at Bandon Road is a significant milestone for Hawkesbury

commuters who use Vineyard Station or travel this route.

“This marks a major step forward in delivering the infrastructure our growing region needs.”

State Member for Riverstone, Warren Kirby added that the upgrades are about making everyday life easier for people in our community.

“As Riverstone and Vineyard continue to grow, Bandon Road is becoming a key local link, and these early works will make a real difference to how people access the station and move around the area,” he said.

“This is the first tangible step towards duplicating Bandon Road and removing the Vineyard level crossing, making sure our infrastructure keeps pace with growth and delivers for the people who call this community home.”

WSI runway run / walk raises over $100,000 and counting

BY NOEL ROWSELL

OVER 20,000 people were at Western Sydney International on Sunday morning 26th April, participating in the WSI Runway Run/Walk.

Celebrating Australia’s most significant aviation project in more than 50 years, the public had unprecedented access for one day to the runway at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), in a historic event in support of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF).

Prior to the event, Mark Emerton, CEO of Elite Energy Events, said that Runway Run/Walk’s location ensured that it would be a unique community and sporting event and an equally important opportunity to help change the future for sick kids.

By registering for Runway Run/ Walk, participants were supporting Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, raising vital funds for Sydney’s world-class children’s hospitals (Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead), specialised care services (Bear Cottage and the Newborn and paediatric Emergency Transport Service) and Kids Research.

“Once aviation operations commence at Western Sydney International Airport, this level of community access will no longer be possible because it is a 24/7 international airport,” Mr Emerton said.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said the Runway Run/Walk would give runners and walkers special behind the scenes access to the airport’s brand new 3.7km runway, before it welcomes its first passengers and planes later this year.

“The countdown is well and truly on for WSI’s opening, but before that day comes, we’re excited to welcome in community members for this special sneak-peak at their new airport, where they’ll have the opportunity to run and walk on an international airport runway before the rubber really hits the road.

“And every entry fee will also lend a helping hand to Sydney Children’s

Hospitals Foundation that does incredible work supporting sick kids across our state, so every step you take will also be going toward that very worthy cause.”

Kristina Keneally, CEO at SCHF said “By taking part in the Runway Run/Walk, every participant will help support sick kids and their families across NSW, because a portion of every registration goes directly to supporting the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network — including our

two children’s hospitals at Westmead and Randwick.

“This is an extraordinary moment in NSW history, and by choosing to support SCHF, runners will leave a lasting impact for sick kids. By fundraising for SCHF, you help ensure every child has access to the healthcare they need, whenever and wherever they need it,” she said.

The Western Sydney International Airport course delivers one of the flattest, widest and fastest courses

in Australian history. It is purpose built for precision, scale and speed and Runway Run/Walk drew over 20,000 participants from across Sydney, including interstate runners, aviation enthusiasts and those seeking a truly unique sporting and historical experience.

Runway Run/Walk offered a 3.7 kilometre runway loop, offering multiple distances, including: Half Marathon, 14km, 7km and 4km events. At the time of writing, the event had raised well over $100,000 for the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation.

Railway Deaths

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

IN the early years of the railway, accidents among their employees were much higher than today. In January 1896 an accident happened to Railway Guard Frederick William Hainsworth. Fred was born in 1849 in Farnley, Yorkshire, England the son of William and Ann Hainsworth (Frankland). At the age of 25 in 1874 Fred was given an appointment for work at Leeds station for the Midland Railway Company. This Company was one of the largest in Britain in the early 20th century, He came to Australia as an unassisted immigrant on the ship ‘Elamang’ arriving at Sydney in March 1877 and was employed in the NSW Railway Department as a porter at Bathurst, also that same year he married Annie Devany at Quirindi (Orange) and they moved to Penrith in 1878 where Fred was employed as a guard on the railway here, where he was known as a good worker and was universally respected by both the Department and his fellow employees. Fred’s accident happened at Bathurst. Fred noticing the door of one of the train carriages was still open as the train started leaving the station, he went along the side and closed it but was caught by some of the bridge timber and wrenched off the train dropping onto the open bridge. He was taken to the hospital where his injuries besides a broken leg were numerous and mostly internal. He recovered consciousness before his death with Annie by his side the whole time. Fred was forty-seven years of age. His body was brought back to Penrith by train and he was buried in St Stephen’s Cemetery at Penrith. The funeral procession consisted of members of the Western Pioneer Lodge I.O.O.F., his fellow employees and the principal Officers of the Railway Department as well as several leading citizens, but it was not as large as it would have been due to the notification of his passing not reaching many of Fred’s old friends who did not know he had died until after he was buried. Annie was left with eight children, their ages ranging from about 19 to a baby. Fred’s life was insured for £200 and a comfortable family cottage in Belmore Street in Penrith. Another death of a well-known Emu Plains family man Henry James Cornell was accidentally killed on the railway line at Parramatta in April 1922. Henry was born at Emu Plains in June 1865 to William and Harriett Cornell (Farrant). In September 1896 at the age of 31 Henry married Christina Willis at the Holy Trinity Church Newtown (Erskineville). The family resided in Argyle Street at Parramatta and Henry had been engaged for some time as a ganger. Henry was working in the vicinity of Parramatta station and finishing work as usual at five o’clock, he went to the tool house and locked his tools away. Immediately after he set out along the railway line in the direction of his home and not far from the bridge spanning Church Street he was struck by the train from Richmond that was due at Parramatta about seven minutes past five and was thrown clear of the line. The train was immediately brought to a standstill and showed that Henry’s feet and legs were hanging over the embankment with the rest of his body on the pathway at the side of the line and when he was picked up he was pronounced dead. Although his flesh was not torn he had sustained terrible injuries and Henry’s body was conveyed to Parramatta Morgue. Just prior to the accident, Henry’s son was standing on the corner of Church and Argyle Street and he saw his father leave the western end of the railway bridge on his way home. Almost immediately after he learned that an accident had occurred, he raced to the spot fearing his father might be the victim. His fears, alas, were soon confirmed. Just how Henry happened to be on the line is not quite clear as a western bound train left Parramatta station three minutes past five and Henry walked up behind it but this train had passed the one

from Richmond near the bowling green and as the accident occurred a few yards from the bridge, Henry must have had a clear view of the line. The only solution is that Henry was deep in thought and crossed over or was already walking on the up-line unconscious of the train’s approach. Sometimes Henry would ride home with the assistant ganger on a railway tricycle but on this occasion the assistant ganger got away before the western train. At other times Henry was in the habit of walking along the line as he did on this ill-fated day. Although severely dented, Henry’s watch was still working when taken from his clothing by Constable Vogel. Henry had been in the railway service since he was sixteen years old and had been working around Parramatta for many years. It is stated that just prior to the fatality, Henry was in his usual good health and spirits. He was 56 years of age and was buried at Rookwood Cemetery in the Anglican section. The last sad accident in November 1924 was that of a young man from St Marys named Hilton Russell Francis who was killed at Penrith railway yard in a railway pit. Hilton was born at St Marys in 1895 to Harry and Alice Frances (Morrison) who were married in 1890 at Ashfield. Hilton was a casual worker assisting to elevate some coal, and for this purpose was standing in the pit with the upper portion of his body out of the pit and leaning across between the front and back wheels of a truck when the truck moved and crushed his arm and body and he died before he reached the hospital. The Coroner’s Report stated that Hilton, 28 years of age had “sustained spinal injuries accidently received through being crushed by a moving truck while working at the Railway Coal elevator at Penrith Railway”. Dr Higgins was in attendance and the Coroner was Mr Judges. Hilton is buried at St Mary Magdalene Anglican cemetery at St Marys. At that time, Hilton was the youngest son of his widowed mother Alice. Hilton’s dad Harry was an Alderman on St Marys Municipal Council in 1914 and the stepbrother of Mr R T Ball (Minister for Works). Harry worked in his younger days for the Bennett Brothers coachbuilding firm in St Mays and afterwards was employed by George T Bennett as a wheelwright where he was working at the time of his death from congestion of the lungs at the age of 48 years and is also buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery. The family lived in Putland Street at St Marys. Photo of the 1930’s Penrith Coal Loader courtesy of Australian Railway Historical Society.

Sources: Nepean Times, Trove, Ancestry, Find a Grave website, 1961 English Census, BDM Register (NSW),Sydney-Australia Cemetery Headstone Transcriptions (1837-2003),Sydney-Australia Anglican Parish Registers (1814-2011), Australia-Marriage Index (1788-1950),Coroners Index (1821-1937).

IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…

FIRST HOME BUYERS: 300,000 Australians Have Used It — How the Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme Works

MORE than 300,000 Australians have now bought a home using the government’s 5% Deposit Scheme — and in 2024–25 it supported more than one in three first home buyers nationally. Since October 2025, major changes have made it more accessible than at any point since it launched in 2020.

How It Works

Normally, buying with less than a 20% deposit means paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance — a cost that can run into tens of thousands of dollars. Under this scheme, the federal government acts as guarantor for up to 15% of the loan (18% for single parents), so you skip LMI entirely. You buy with a 5% deposit, the government covers the gap, and you save significantly at settlement.

What Changed in October 2025

Three major restrictions were lifted: income caps were removed entirely, waitlists were abolished with unlimited places now available, and property price caps were raised significantly — up to $1.5 million in Sydney and $950,000 in Melbourne. Joint applications are allowed with a partner, friend or family member, and single parents qualify with just 2% deposit.

Who Is Eligible?

For the first home buyer stream you generally need to:

• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident aged 18 or over

• Not have owned property in Australia in the last 10 years

• Plan to live in the property — the scheme is not available for investment properties

• Move in within six months of settlement and continue living there while the guarantee is active

• Purchase at or below the price cap for your suburb The Trap to Watch Getting approved is only part of the picture. The risk many first home buyers underestimate is overextending — high repayments combined with low equity can leave you dangerously exposed if your circumstances change. A rate movement, a job change, or an unexpected cost can push a stretched loan into serious difficulty.

At Wealthwiz, we assess this carefully with every client. Structuring your loan correctly from the start — with a realistic repayment level, a buffer, and a clear equity-building strategy — is what makes the difference between a home that builds your wealth and one that becomes a burden.

How

to Apply

Applications go through an approved Participating Lender — not directly to the government. A mortgage broker can compare lenders, check your eligibility, model your repayments against your actual budget, and guide the application. There are no fees to use the scheme itself.

At Wealthwiz, we believe the smartest move in a noisy, fast-moving environment is a human connection — someone who knows your situation, understands the market, and can cut through the noise to find what actually works for you. Technology is a tool. Advice is personal.

Call Alex, an MFAA accredited finance broker, today on 0419 600 177.

Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature. Opinions expressed are those of the author and should not be construed as specific financial or tax advice. The information is believed to be reliable at time of distribution, but Wealthwiz does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. Please seek appropriate professional advice for your individual circumstances.

WSAS athletes shine at Regional Academy Games

BY NOEL ROWSELL

ATHLETES

from the Western Sydney Academy of Sport delivered outstanding performances at the 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games, showcasing their strength, depth and determination. Held in Tamworth from April 17–19 and hosted by the Northern Inland Academy of Sport, on behalf of the Regional Academies of Sport network, the Games once again proved a standout event on the regional sporting calendar.

The event welcomed close to 1,000 athletes from across NSW, competing in basketball, golf, hockey, netball, triathlon and softball. Venues across the Tamworth region came alive as athletes represented all 11 Regional Academies of Sport, including Central Coast, Far West, Illawarra, Hunter, North Coast, Northern Inland, South East, South West Sydney, Southern, Western Region and Western Sydney, creating a vibrant celebration of regional sport.

Western Sydney athletes made their mark across multiple sports, highlighted by strong team performances and individual excellence.

In softball, the Western Sydney girls team were dominant throughout the competition, going undefeated and securing a commanding 12–0 victory over South West Sydney Academy of Sport in the grand final. The result crowns them back-to-back undefeated champions and reinforces their status as a premier program in the competition.

The boys softball team also delivered an impressive campaign, finishing runners-up after a thrilling grand final. In a closely contested match, the team showed resilience and determination, regaining the lead late before going down narrowly in

the final innings. The WSAS Softball program has 21 players, including eight from Penrith and seven from Blacktown.

Western Sydney’s success extended to triathlon, where the academy dominated the Junior Male category, claiming both first and second place. Isaac Chapman (Cranebrook) secured gold, followed closely by teammate Alexander Mackie (Glenmore Park).

Individual performances were also recognised in netball, with Aleigha Panuve (South Penrith) named Division One MVP and Francine Valentine (Blacktown) taking out Division Two MVP.

Martin Bullock, Regional Manager of the Western Sydney and South West Sydney Academy of Sport said the results were a testament to the dedication of athletes, coaches and support staff.

“These results reflect the hard work and commitment of our athletes and the strength of our programs across Western Sydney. To see our teams and individuals perform at such a high level on this stage is incredibly rewarding.”

Supersprints President Series event at

Coby Carruthers wins 17th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final

BY NOEL ROWSELL

21-YEAR-OLD Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC) has become the first-ever Australian player to win the Faldo Series Asia,

following a thrilling playoff victory over 20-year-old Yuki Hari (New Zealand) at Laguna Lang Co golf club, Vietnam.

Coby took the lead in the tournament on Day Two, following

a scintillating 8-under-par 63, to lead Yuki by two shots.

.Day Three provided cooler conditions, with Coby and Yuki subsequently lighting up the course to finish tied at 11-under-par, six shots

clear of the rest of the field.

Both players headed to a playoff on the Par 5, 18th hole, with Coby sinking a triumphant birdie to seal the win, claiming both the overall winner and U21 boys trophies.

Bikes and cars to thrill the fans at The

Bend

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Bend (SA) will host the third round of the Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK) on May 1-3.

Western Sydney fans will have plenty to watch, with JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) returning from testing in Barcelona to contest the SW-Motech Superbikes category, along with Jack Favelle (Cattai), whilst Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) will be keen

to maintain his current winning streak in Yamaha Supersport.

The Bend, officially opened in 2018, is one of the world’s premier circuits. The 18-turn international layout used in the ASBK Championship provides massive variety – blind turns, sweeping corners, hard braking zones and areas for maximum acceleration – which makes it anything but a walk in the park. It’s the degree of difficulty which makes it such a formidable challenge for riders and a bonanza for spectators.

Competing motorbike classes

include: SW-Motech Superbikes (2 races), Kawasaki Supersport / Next Gen (2 races), Race & Road Supersport 300 (3 races), bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup (3 races) and Yamaha R3 BLU CRU Asia Pacific Championship (2 races).

Current standings for western Sydney riders competing this weekend are:

SW-Motech Superbikes: JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) – 9th, Jack Favelle (Cattai) – 10th; Kawasaki Supersport: Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) – 1st; Race & Road

Supersport 300 – Zac Russo (Sackville North) – 14th, Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) - unranked; Yamaha R3 bLU cRU Asia- Pacific Championship – Xavier Curmi (Wallacia) – 6th, Adam Jordan (unranked)

As an added attraction to Motorsport fans, the bikes will be joined at The Bend by the four-wheel action of the 2026 Radical Cup Australia series (4 races). Last year’s Top Five drivers in the Radical Cup were Cooper Cutts, Peter Paddon, Bryce Moore, Chris Reindler and Ruairidh Avern.