Western News 23 January 2026

Residents irate at extended timeline for Wianamatta Parkway access

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE barricades at the Ropes Crossing entry point to Western Connector Road have been removed but residents will or have already quickly discovered it is still a ‘road to nowhere’.

Despite now being able to walk or ride along almost the entire length of the road (which becomes Wianamatta Parkway), the illusion of an access road to Jordan Springs finally being open to traffic is quickly dispelled when the roundabout at Armoury Road, Jordan Springs comes into view.

200-300 metres of undeveloped land still separates that intersection from the eastern end of Wianamatta Road, with the latest news filtering through to Jordan Springs residents that roadwork and bridgework is scheduled to now extend beyond December, 2026.

There is no better news regarding Cochrane Street, which runs off Wianamatta Parkway to connect with Links Road in the Dunheved Business Park.

This intersection also features undeveloped land between Cochrane Street and Links Road, and is reportedly not due for commencement of the roadwork, at that site, until the Wianamatta Parkway between Jordan Springs and Ropes Crossing is completed.

A Jordan Springs resident spoke to Nepean News and said, “There are currently two major issues affecting the community.”

“Firstly, the 6 year delay of the connector road being completed on the Penrith side by Lendlease. This is a major bushfire breach, for if there’s a fire to the west of the Tedbury Rd area that’s being fanned by 60kmh+ winds, the emergency bus lane (Leichardt Ave) is not an option for residents of Armoury Road / Corporal Avenue / Garrison Road, who can’t flee west but must flee east. That’s why it was a crucial part of the original DA.

“Secondly, there is the works on the sinking bridge / road area between Garrison Road and Armoury Road. At best this will be completed Dec 2026. Any delay, like the Northern Road / Greenwood Parkway debacle that was supposed to be finished in Sept 2025 but will be at least a year late, will have dire consequences, with the (Jordan Springs) High school opening in January 2027.

The resident said there were rumours on Facebook that the bulk earth works regarding the Connector Road will not be complete until Dec 2026, which they fear means there is no possible way that the Connector Road will be complete for the school’s opening. In short, that means students / parents from Ropes Crossing will need to make a 25 minute each way trip to take their students to school, instead of driving 90 seconds.

The resident said there is material labelled both ‘fit for use’ or ‘unsuitable for use’ stacked in the area needed to be rectified / turned into roadway.

“This includes materials such as grass. It appears a cause of the delay isn’t just subsidence but may indeed be the contamination pits that were alluded to decades ago by former workers at the ADF site. I have heard rumours of a road going from Infantry Road to the bridge to bypass this issue / area but these are unsubstantiated rumours. Therefore, the cost to rectify this issue must be extremely prohibitive.

“The Connector Road is accessible for all pedestrians and cyclists (just not cars) from the park in Jordan Springs, as well at the Ropes Crossing end. Technically, it is prohibited entry. This is why stolen cars frequently use the road as a burnout strip. The evidence is everywhere.”

A Lendlease spokesperson spoke to the Nepean News, stating, “We understand and share the urgency with the community to have this critical piece of infrastructure delivered as quickly as possible.

“We have appointed a contractor for the bulk earthworks, which will commence imminently. This is an important step forward in building the remaining section of the Connector Road.”

Another Jordan Springs resident has instigated a petition at www.change.org/p/one-road-isnot-enough-complete-the-connector-road-forjordan-springs-east

This petition states: “Residents of Jordan Springs East have waited many years for an additional access point into and out of the community. The long promised connector road (Winnamatta Parkway / East West Connector Road), intended to link Jordan Springs with St Marys North and Ropes Crossing, was originally expected to be delivered years ago. It remains incomplete, with no confirmed delivery date provided to residents.

As a result, the community continues to rely on a single road for entry and exit. This sole access route is now subject to major road and bridge works, increasing congestion, delays, and safety risks for residents, visitors, school traffic, and essential service providers.

Jordan Springs East is surrounded almost entirely by bushland. In the event of a bushfire, natural disaster, or medical emergency, there is currently no alternative evacuation route. Emergency services access may be significantly restricted, placing lives and property at risk. These risks are further compounded by the construction of Jordan Springs High School, which will significantly increase traffic in an area already constrained by limited infrastructure.

Completion of the connector road would deliver critical benefits by:

• Providing a vital second access and evacuation route

• Improving emergency services response capability

• Reducing congestion and improving road safety

• Cutting travel times to St Marys and creating a direct route

• Creating easier access to the new Western Sydney Metro system once completed

• Supporting current and future growth in the area

Despite its clear strategic importance and long standing commitments, the connector road remains unfinished, with ongoing delays and no transparent or publicly communicated construction timeline.

This is no longer an inconvenience. It is a public safety issue.

We call on Penrith Council, the NSW Government, and all responsible authorities to:

• Commit to the immediate commencement and completion of the connector road (Winnamatta Parkway)

• Deliver a guaranteed second access point for Jordan Springs East

• Publish clear and transparent infrastructure timelines

• Prioritise resident safety, emergency access, and evacuation planning

Excuses and delays have gone on far too long. Jordan Springs East residents are no longer asking for explanations. We are asking for action.”

NSW Government to increase hospital beds

THE NSW Government is one step closer to expanding Blacktown Hospital and increase beds, with a builder appointed to deliver the additional beds and services in late 2026, a year ahead of schedule.

As part of the $120 million investment to further upgrade Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, the project will provide expanded and contemporary acute inpatient capacity with a total of 60 additional beds across both Hospitals, relieving pressure and improving patient flow to support the hardworking hospital staff.

Bringing forward the delivery of these additional beds is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to better meeting the healthcare needs of the growing western Sydney community, while working closely with the Commonwealth to address growing bed block caused by aged care and NDIS patients stuck in public hospitals across NSW.

Building contractor, Icon has been awarded the contract following a competitive tender process and work is set to begin in the coming weeks. The 30 new beds will be added across existing wards within expansion zones at Blacktown Hospital.

Blacktown’s Emergency Department sees more than 64,000 patients each year, with emergency (triage category 2) patient presentations having doubled since 2015.

The bed expansion project at Blacktown Hospital will include new patient rooms, along with expanded clinical and non-clinical support service spaces.

Construction will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption, with hospital services remaining operational throughout the redevelopment.

A planning application was also lodged in late 2025 for additional beds at Mount Druitt Hospital. This project will increase medical and surgical capacity.

The NSW Government is investing in more staff, more hospitals and more beds with $1.3 billion of additional funding in the 2025-26 budget to support the delivery of health facilities and services across Western Sydney.

The additional beds for Blacktown Hospital come at a time when NSW grapples with a sharp increase in the number of patients unable to be safely discharged because they are waiting to access a Commonwealth aged care or National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) placement.

At Blacktown Hospital, this number has almost tripled in the year to October 2025, from 7 to 18 patients.

The NSW Government is working constructively with the Commonwealth Government to settle on a new National Health Reform Agreement to help address these challenges.

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Minister for Health Ryan Park said the government was delivering the additional beds that western Sydney needs and deserves.

“Labor is focused on delivering more hospitals and more beds, more quickly to lower wait times and better meet the health needs of the community – and we will do it without privatisation,” Minister Park said.

“With rates of bed block from NDIS and aged care patients at Blacktown Hospital more than doubling in 2025, these new beds will play a vital role in helping improve patient flow and relieving pressure on our emergency departments.

“We are having constructive conversations with the Federal Government and hopefully we can work through this with in an updated agreement soon.”

Member for Blacktown, Stephen Bali added, “There’s more work to do but getting these new beds online ahead of schedule will relieve pressure and improve the patient experience after the Liberals left Blacktown Hospital in disarray.”

Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla said he was delighted that the Minns Labor government has been able to deliver these additional beds earlier than planned. “With delays in NDIS and aged care placements increasing bed block at Blacktown Hospital this past year, these extra beds are absolutely crucial and will result in improved patient flow and will relieve pressure on our emergency department,” he said.

“Delivering them early will make a real difference for patients, families and staff across western Sydney.”

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

AUSTRALIA DAY

ONE of my favourite days on the calendar has always been Australia Day. I enjoy celebrating all things Australian. To me that means both celebrating and reflecting on our history.

I’m proud of our first nations people; their culture and their heritage.

I feel lucky that of all the places that they could have ended up, my own ancestors were shipped all the way to Australia. How fortunate!

I’m happy to roll out the welcome mat to those who’ve come from other countries and want to ‘haveago’ and make this land their home.

Australia Day should be an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come as well as everything we can be in future.

United as one.

Indigenous people, the offspring of European Settlers and those who’ve come here from other countries - all of us, as one, celebrating the great country we all call home. Wouldn’t it be great if we could just do that?

There’s always debate around this time. We have people who want to celebrate being Australian on the traditional day and not change that. We have people who hate the date as they see it as the start of British Invasion, and, as many Indigenous lives were lost, they see it as a day of mourning.

For quite a while now, being proudly Australian is somewhat clouded by debate over changing the date. Is it truly just a date that offends some and stops them from being loud and proud? Personally I don’t care what date it is, as long as it stays in summer.

Would those who shun the January 26 date be OK if it was a day or two either side of that day? Would those digging their heels in about keeping the date really care if were say, January 24 or January 28?

What will it take for us to get on with celebrating being Australian?

Crikey, let’s just get this sorted. Address it, discuss it, debate it then settle it. We are missing a great opportunity to unite and celebrate by allowing it to fester. If it is as simple as a date change, great! Pick a date either side of the 26th, whatever - just get on with it.

None of us has the power to change anything from the past. But collectively we have the power to design our future. What will it take to unite us all so that we can get on with celebrating the fact the we live in the greatest country in the world?

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

CHILDREN can try rock climbing, archery, ball sports and more free activities as part of Blacktown City Family SportsFest on Saturday 14 February.

Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope will offer a range of games to try, as well as animal encounters, face painting and a jumping castle, in a celebration of active lifestyles from 12 pm to 4 pm.

The pool will feature inflatables and free pool and gym entry will be available for those who collect a voucher from the Blacktown Key Venues stall in the stadium.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said being active was vital to building healthy, connected communities.

“Being active is good for the body

and mind, and brings people together,” he said.

“SportsFest makes it easier for our community to discover a new interest and keep moving.”

Sporting groups from across Blacktown City will have stalls at the event to offer information about joining and answer questions.

A special Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope membership offer will be available for visitors, including 10 per cent off and no joining fee.

SportsFest builds on the success of Blacktown City Council events including Aquafest and Activefest, continuing a commitment to accessible sport and recreation for all.

For more information about SportsFest, visit www. blacktownaquaticandsports.com.au

AUSSIE SLANG

Sun safe tips for Aus Day

AUSTRALIA DAY is a great opportunity to get out in the good old Aussie sunshine (fingers crossed - we have had some beautiful weather in the past) Protecting yourself and your little ones from the sun is more important than ever; even on cloudy days!

Sun exposure can add up quickly, so make sure you’re following these simple yet effective sun safety tips.

The 7-Teaspoon Rule – For fullbody sun protection, use 35ml (7 teaspoons) of sunscreen on your child’s skin. This ensures every exposed area is covered adequately.

Don’t Miss a Spot – Ears, feet, hands, and neck are often forgotten, but they’re just as vulnerable to sun

damage. Make sure these areas get the protection they need.

Sun Protection All Day – Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside and reapply every two hours to maintain coverage. Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can reach the skin.

Water & Sweat Awareness –Swimming, sweating, or toweldrying removes sunscreen faster. Reapply immediately after these activities to keep skin protected.

Make It a Daily Habit – Whether it’s sunny or overcast, adding sunscreen to your child’s morning routine is a great way to build lifelong sun safety habits.

Stay sun smart this summer and keep your little ones protected!

Good ole-fashioned Aussie lingo

With Australia Day coming up let’s have a bit of a gander at some old Aussie slang sayings that only true blue Aussies would understand!

› As flash as a rat with a gold tooth

› It beats a poke in the eye with a blunt stick

› He’s got a head like a beaten favourite

› Bangs like a dunny door in a hurricane

› She’s got a kangaroo loose in the top paddock

› He was grinning like a shot fox

› He’s as fat as a butcher’s dog

› Feeling as crook as Rookwood

› She’s up at a sparrow’s fart

› That’s about as rare as rocking horse poo

› Off like a bride’s nightie

› She’s done the Harold Holt

› She shot through like a Bondi tram

› He’s lower than a snake’s bum

› She can talk under water with a mouthful of marbles

Q: What is the difference between an Australian wedding and an Australian funeral?

A: One less drunk at the funeral

Q: Why do kangaroos hate rainy days?

A: Because their children play inside.

Old slang.. all but forgotten!

› Ya bloody scallywag! › He’s cactus

› How ya going Cobber? › Ken oath!

› On the blower › Hum dinger

› Stone the flamin crows › You pong!

› She’s the duck’s guts › Amber fluid

› Where’s me doovalacky? › Grouse!

› He’s come a gutzer › Within a coo-ee

› Big-noting yourself › Bonzer bloke

› Barrack for your team › Strewth

› London to a brick › Hoo-roo

Q: What did the necktie say to the Akubra Hat?

A: “You go on a head mate, I’ll just hang around.”

I was recently turned down on my application for an Australian green card, on account of my criminal record. Bit bloody ironic is it not?

› I’m so hungry I could I could eat a horse and chase its rider

› My throat feels like the scrapings from the Cockie’s cage

› As much use as an ashtray on a motorbike

› He’s as reliable as a two bob watch

› His language was so bad, he’d make a warfie blush

› Fits like a bum in a bucket

› She’s as thick as two short planks

› He’s so fat you’d need a cut lunch to get around him

The Royal Aero Club

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

IN October 1914, a group of young officers of the newly formed Australian Flying Corps met in Victoria. They decided that an Australian Aero club should be formed to be affiliated with the Royal Aero Club in London. The first President Major H.A. Petre was sent out from England to inaugurate a flying school for the Australian Government. Further development of the Clubs was delayed by World War I and in 1919 individual sections of the Australian Aero Club was formed in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. In March 1926 the national aero club movement was formalised under the name of the Australian Aero Club Federal Council and consisted of representatives of the Victorian and New South Wales Clubs only. In 1929 a new Constitution was adopted and the name changed to the Associated Aero Clubs. The primary object of the Clubs was initially to develop interest in flying throughout the Commonwealth, with particular attention paid to Aerial pageants, air races and public receptions for pioneer aviators at the end of historic flights. These were accompanied by flying displays and were well attended. As WW2 began to threaten in the 1930s, the Clubs began to realise their defence potential and they made strong representations to the Federal Government for financial assistance to support pilot training at a reasonable cost for the individual. When war finally broke out in 1939 several of the larger Clubs were turned into elementary flying training schools and provided the instructors, aircraft and ground maintenance facilities to train cadet pilots for the Royal Australian Air Force that allowed the RAAF to concentrate on intensive instructor training. In December 1945 while on a local flight a single engine aircraft went out of control and spun in between Prince Henry Hospital and Long Bay Gaol in south Sydney. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot Miss Betty Faux (30) an electrical worker of Kensington was killed in this aircraft rebuilt during the war by the Aero Club of NSW at Mascot when replacement aircrafts required desperate measures. The plane was based on the wreck of a Moth VHUHQ that was badly burnt in a hangar fire at Wagga in December 1939. The rebuilt aircraft was designated a DH.60GIII Moth Major that was originally built by De Haviland and flight tested in December 1943. It continued to fly with the RACNSW for almost exactly two years until the fatal crash. In 1948 the name changed to the Aero Club Federation of Australia and during 1960 the prefix ‘Royal’ was granted by Her Majesty and the present title adopted. In March 1954, Peter Williamson Eastaway (28-single) of Cremorne, a student pilot of the Bankstown Royal Aero Club died from the effects of injuries accidentally sustained when the Tiger Moth plane he was flying hit an electric high-tension wire stretched across the Nepean River and the plane fell into the river at Agnes Banks. Peter was taking his “A” class cross-country license test. At the inquest held at Penrith Court House, the District Coroner Mr N C Gardner CPS found that no blame was attached to the Club. Constable Ellis of Penrith said that he went to the Western bank of the Nepean River at Agnes Banks and saw an aeroplane submerged in the river close to that bank and saw Peter lying cold on a blanket on the riverside. Penrith Ambulance then took his body to Nepean District

Hospital where Dr Barrow examined Peter’s body at Penrith Morgue. He said that in his opinion, death was due to a fracture of the skull. Flying Instructor Tasman Herbert Dalton of the Royal Aero Club of NSW said that Peter was a student pilot and his flying experience was approximately 45 hours, made up of dual and solo flying, approximately 21 hours would have been the solo flying but before Peter could be tested as a pilot, he would have to have a minimum of 40 hours total flying. He said that Peter was to be tested for his licence the next day by him as he had supervised Peter’s flying instruction and from his experience he would say that Peter had shown sound average ability and that he was on the premises when the aircraft was ready for Peter to fly that day, but he did not see the actual departure. He also said that he had flown that aeroplane that morning and it was perfectly normal in operation and the course Peter was directed to fly on that day involved flying directly along the Nepean River and Peter was on his second cross-country solo flight. Eric Buhois Spooner an accountant of Wahroonga said that about 5.10 p.m. in March he was standing at the side of a house on the western bank of the Nepean River at Agnes Banks when he saw a yellow single-engine aeroplane travelling in a northerly direction and following the line of the Nepean River at about 160 to 200ft and it appeared to be running normally from the sound of the motor and was descending at an angle of about 20 degrees when it levelled out at about 60ft above the treetops and flew on that course for about 100 yards. Eric said he saw sparks coming from the front of the plane and he heard a screeching noise that he later learnt was the cables parting, and the left wing dropped pointing to the ground and the nose of the plane rose and he saw the plane falling but did not see it after it fell below the level of the trees. He ran in the direction of where the plane fell and located it near the western bank and he noticed that the cockpit was about two feet underwater but Peter was well under the water, he freed him from the cockpit and cut the straps but the shoulder straps were quite tight, and so tight that Eric had to put a little force on them in order to get the knife under and after he had freed Peter he was placed in a rowing boat and taken to shore. Stanley Lintott, a farmer residing at Springwood Road in Agnes Banks said he was sitting on the veranda of his home facing the Nepean River when he saw the plane fall into the river after hitting high tension wires. He rowed down with his brother to the plane and he was present when Eric Spooner released the pilot from it and helped to place Peter on the bank and said that he carried out artificial respiration in case that it was necessary. Peter’s parents George & Lillian of Holt Road, Cremorne were at the inquest when the coroner said the he was satisfied from evidence in this most unfortunate accident that all adequate steps had been taken by the Aero Club, both in the instruction of Peter and in the checking and preparation of the plane and that the aeroplane was in an airworthy condition and it was a most unfortunate happening that can only be ascribed to the failure of the pilot Peter to observe closely the instructions that he had been given. Peter’s funeral was at St Augustine’s Church, Neutral Bay and then to the Northern Suburbs Crematorium.

Sources: Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives- Ed Coates, Nepean Times

IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…

Calling all food vendors!

9 Surpassing the norm (7)

10 Effeminate (7)

11 Pet rodent (7)

12 Masts, spars and sails (7)

13 Midweek day (9)

15 Bloodsucking worm (5)

16 Refrain from doing something (7)

19 Lying in wait (7)

20 Confuse (5)

21 An abnormal condition of the lungs (9)

25 A supernatural spirit (7)

26 Gives information (7)

28 Hole in the nose (7)

29 Pricklings (7)

1 Shun (6)

2 Viewed as (6)

3 Enumerate (4)

4 Made a loud noise (6)

5 Treachery (8)

6 In an exceptional manner (10)

7 A disease caused by a lack of B1 (8)

8 Porcupine (8)

14 Primary (10)

16 Shard (8)

17 Incivility (8)

18 Remorsefully (8)

22 Reproduces with a press (6)

23 Spookily (6)

24 Evaluate (6)

27 Look after (4)

TNew Year, New Strategy: Navigating the 2026 “Interest Rate seesaw”

HE holiday decorations are packed away, and for many Australians, they’ve been replaced by a familiar guest: the post-Christmas “financial hangover.” If you’re currently staring at your credit card statements or Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) alerts while hearing whispers of changing interest rates, you aren’t alone.

As we step into late January 2026, the Australian economic landscape is shifting again. Here is what you need to know to stay ahead of the game.

The 2026 Reality Check: Where Do Rates Stand?

Unlike the predictions of a few years ago, we are entering 2026 with the official cash rate sitting at 3.60%. While there was relief when rates fell from their 4.35% peak, the conversation has changed.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is closely watching a recent “pick-up” in inflation, which hit 3.8% in late 2025. As of today many banks and experts are divided in opinion.

• The “Hike” Risk: Major banks including CBA are tipping a 0.25% rate increase as early as February

3rd, 2026, which would bring the cash rate to 3.85%.

• The “Hold” View: Other experts, including those at Westpac, believe the RBA will keep rates on an “extended hold” at 3.60% for the rest of 2026.

• The Bottom Line: The “cheap credit” era isn’t returning yet. Whether rates go up or stay steady, your mortgage remains your biggest household expense.

Did the “Christmas Spirit” Break the Budget?

Many Australians used credit facilities and BNPL products to cover holiday expenses. While these are marketed as “interest-free,” the hidden costs—late fees, account management charges, and the impact on your credit score—can quickly add up.

If you are feeling the pinch, now is the time to prioritise “Financial Fitness”:

1. Stop the Leak: Put the credit cards away and stick to debit or cash to avoid further debt.

2. The Priority List: Build a budget that puts your mortgage and essential bills at the top.

3. The Mortgage Review: With some banks already increasing fixed rates (some as high as 6.04%), waiting to “see what happens” could cost

SPORT

you thousands.

Why “Doing Nothing” Is a Strategy for Losing In 2025, national home values rose by roughly 8.6%, adding over $71,000 to the median Australian home value. While the market is cooling slightly in Sydney and Melbourne, cities like Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide are still seeing strong growth.

This means you likely have more equity in your home than you did a year ago. Even with the threat of a February rate hike, the mortgage market remains highly competitive. Lenders are hungry for quality borrowers, and your increased home value could be the key to unlocking a better deal.

Take Control of Your 2026

Don’t wait for a mid-year crisis to review your finances. Whether you are looking to consolidate holiday debt or want to ensure your home loan is still the “best fit” for a high-rate environment, professional guidance is essential.

Ready for a 2026 Financial Reset? Contact Alex Soncini at Wealthwiz for a professional home loan and financial health review.

The best on show at Avondale Amateur

SEVEN players from western Sydney have entered this year’s Avondale Amateur, regarded as one of the premier events on the Australian amateur golfing calendar.

Leading the highly-talented western Sydney contingent are Concord GC team-mates Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs), Ti Fox (Richmond) and Chayse Thorpe (Concord), along with Savanna Webb, Annoushka Maikap and NIhal Gaundar (Stonecutters Ridge GC) and Twin Creeks resident Darcy Mackay (The Australian GC). Former Quakers Hill resident Camilla Kim (The Australian GC) is also entered in the Women’s division.

The Avondale Amateur is an elite men’s and women’s amateur tournament, where men compete for the Avondale Medal and women compete for the Avondale Bowl. This year’s field is 168 players. The lowest handicap in the Medal division is +7.4, and players needed to be at +0.4 or better to make the field. In the Avondale Bowl, the lowest handicap is +5.4 and all players need to be off 3.0 or better to make the field.

The event is held over 72 holes stroke play and a cut is made, after 36 holes, to the top half of the field and

ties, in each event.

The 2026 tournament is a special event, as Avondale GC celebrates its Centenary year. The Avondale Bowl was established in 1951, and the Avondale Medal in 1961.

The events were played separately, until they were combined in 2017 to become the Avondale Amateur, which was subsequently included on the Australian National Ranking

and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) calendar in 2019.

In recent years, the Avondale Amateur has attracted a quality field, including many interstate and international players from New Zealand, Canada, England, Korea and Japan, as well as the top amateurs in Australia.

Previous participants include Min Woo Lee, Cameron Davis,

Harrison Endycott, (Champion in 2015 and 2016), Jed Morgan, David Micheluzzi, Harrison Crowe and Declan O’Donovan (Champion in 2024 and 2025) in the Men’s Medal. In the Women’s Bowl event, previous participants include Grace Kim (Champion 2020), Stephanie Kyriacou, Gabriela Ruffels, Kirsten Rudgeley (Champion 2022) and Ella Scaysbrook (Champion 2025).

Ti Fox record breaking win in Sydney Week of Golf

RICHMOND 17-year-old Ti

Fox (Concord GC) has scored an impressive four-shot victory in the 2026 Harvey Norman Sydney Week of Golf, finishing at a recordbreaking 19-under-par to hold off a fast-finishing Owen Brightman (Castle Hill CC).

Ti led by 21 shots at the start of the final day’s play but few could have anticipated the drama which would unfold during the fifth round, with

Brightman shooting a sensational score of 62 at Muirfield, the best round of the tournament, to enjoy a nine-shot swing and closing to within two shots of Ti at the 14th hole.

A birdie to Ti and a bogey to Owen on the 15th would however ultimately end Owen’s challenge, with Ti able to hold his advantage over the final three holes.

Evan Nguyen (NSW GC) finished in third, whilst the next best finishers from western Sydney were Jack Gillett in a tie for 33rd and Luke Carruthers in a tie for 42nd (both from Stonecutters Ridge GC).

Ti also won the 16/17 Years Boys title, whilst Jack and Luke were 6th and tied 11th respectively in the 14/15 Boys division.

The best western Sydney players in the Girls Division were Marie-Claire Domingo (Stonecutters Ridge GC) in a tie for 22nd, ahead of Nicole Son (Penrith GC) in a tie for 27th and Georgia Karagiannis (Stonecutters Ridge GC) in a tie for 33rd.

Marie-Claire also finished tied 6th in 16/17 Years Girls, Georgia 7th in 14/15 Years Girls and Nicole 14th in 12/13 Years Girls.

Major Pennant golf tees off in February

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 2026 Men’s Major Pennant golf competition tees off on 1st February, featuring 11 clubs from western Sydney, including Lynwood and Stonecutters Ridge (Division One), Fox Hills, Richmond, Penrith, Glenmore Heritage Valley and Twin Creeks (Division Two), Springwood and Dunheved (Division Three), Wallacia (Division Four) and Leonay (Division Five) in the Men’s Divisions and Stonecutters Ridge in Division One of the Women’s Division.

There are six home matches for the Men’s teams on the opening weekend, with Fox Hills hosting Richmond, Penrith hosting Oak Point (formerly Liverpool), Glenmore Heritage Valley hosting Oatlands, Twin Creeks hosting Cabramatta, Springwood hosting Bayview and Dunheved hosting Camden (Studley Park).

The Women’s Major Pennant is played at a Central venue each week, with Stonecutters Ridge the only western Sydney club playing and hosting Round Three on 1st March.

MEN’S TEAMS: Wallacia CC: Chris Holmes, Jason Jamieson, Paul Cheshire, Shawn Reitsma, Rob Walker, Matt Cheshire, Josue Paz, Justin Woodward, Paul Ritchie, Manager: Bob Flood, Asst Manager: Bruce Walker; Glenmore Heritage Valley GC: Troy Moses, Ben Michelmore, Chris Moreton, Steve Zingle, David Bishop, Andrew Robb, Matt Talley, Manager: Matt Mayers; Penrith GC: Dale Hughes, Josh Scott, Michael Elliott,

Blade Gadd, Ben Clements, Michael Organ, Dilshad Ali, Ryder Jerzyna, Kyle Armstrong; Leonay GC: Adam Brennen (c), Cal Curry,

Pete Homan, Michael Barton, Matt Brennan, Jake Thompson, Anthony Wright, Gary Oxford, Zac Lange; Dunheved GC: Craig Williams, Dillyn Burazin, Daren Bain, John Pagett, Dean Neill, Cain Fitzsimmons, Connor Hamilton, Joe Lozada, Albin Mezildzic, Manager Mark Sorridimi; Richmond GC: Trent McMillen (c), Matthew Finn, Michael Beehag, Thomas Chambers, Reggie Papps, Patrick Murphy, Zac Kirk, Hayden Carver, Damion Miller, Brent Caunter, Ian (Red) Davies; Twin Creeks GC: John Glasheen, James Tolomeo, Mitch Stevens, Jeremy White, Luke Kane, Taylor Williams, David Quirk, Brett Atkinson, Yugo Kawamura, Chris Ticehurst, Alex Radevski; Lynwood CC: Matt Nathan, Enzo Moon, Cody Mavin, Kolby Thurgood, Ozaya Algie, Jake Roeder, Ethan Treble; Fox Hills GC: Daki Falcon (c), Jamie Bingham, Marty Rajca, Jarrod Freeman, Joel Wheatley, Luke Shahmatov, Kreo Moodley, Nathan Annen, Keegan Phillips, Kevin Booth; Stonecutters Ridge GC: Daniel Beattie (c), Daniel Brooker, Kirk Buckley, Ryan Cadle, Nihal Gaundar, Jack Gillett, Mitch Norbis, Sean Sammons, Harrison Wilde, Luke Carruthers; Springwood CC: TBA

There are also several western Sydney residents playing in other Men’s teams, including: Concord GC: Coby Carruthers, Ti Fox, Chayse Thorpe, Kade Webber; The Australian GC: Darcy Mackay; NSW GC: Blake Hodges

WOMEN’S TEAM: Stonecutters Ridge GC: Savannah Webb, Sue Fairhurst, Annoushka Maikap, Lia Lavelle, Annabelle Elina, Georgia Karagianis, Marie Claire Domingo.

NSW wins U16 Australian Youth Challenge Baseball

BY NOEL ROWSELL

NSW has won gold in the Under 16 Division at the Australian Youth Challenge, defeating Victoria in a thrilling grand final. The NSW U18’s finished third in their division, taking home bronze behind VIC (gold) and WA (silver).

Noah Nash (Greater Western Warriors, St Marys) finished the U16 tournament with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and had a grand final game he will remember for a long time.

Nash had four hits, two RBI, a diving catch, two shutout innings pitched and a save, as he helped lead New South Wales to a dominant 12-1 victory.

The U16 western Sydney team members are Noah Nash (Greater Western Warriors, St Marys), Noah Rowley (Kings Langley), Cooper Smith (Rouse Hill), Jet Creamer (Quakers Hill) and Jack Drummond (Oakville).

The U18 western Sydney team members are Ben Sawyer, Ashton Kennedy, Bailey Richards,

Tristan Crynes, Tahlan Cavill (all from Blacktown Workers)

NSW U16 RESULTS: won 12-1 over NSW Country, won 10-3 over QLD, won 12-11 over VIC, won 15-5 over WA, lost 9-8 to SA, won 12-0 over ACT, won 16-1 over SA, lost 14-12 to VIC, won 8-3 over SA, won 12-1 over VIC.

NSW U18 RESULTS: won 9-1 over ACT, won 14-5 over QLD, lost 13-3 to VIC, won 14-8 over SA, lost 11-7 to WA, won 11-0 over NSW Country, lost 9-2 to VIC, won 3-2 over SA, lost 10-9 to VIC.

Liam Phillips enjoying life in US College basketball

BY NOEL ROWSELL

IN August 2024, Liam Phillips (Blacktown Storm) signed a letter of intent to play for USC Salkehatchie Men’s Basketball in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).

Phillips, a 6’5” (195.5cm), 165-pound (75kg) guard joined the program as the seventh Aussie to sign with Salkehatchie in the last two seasons under Head Coach Matt Lynch.

At that time, coach Lynch said, “We are really excited that Liam decided to join our program and add to the championship culture that is already in place. He is a three-level scorer that has a great feel for the game. His development over the next 365 days is something we are really excited about. As he continues to work in the weight room and every day in practice, he has an opportunity to turn himself into a really special player. He has great energy and was a ton of fun to recruit and build a relationship with. We can’t wait to get him on campus!”

“Liam is an athletic guard that can play both sides of the floor. A good awareness for the game makes him adaptable and dangerous,” said Liam’s’ long time Australian coach Goran Veg (Penrith). “He’s a mature, diligent, and responsible young man. It’s an honour and a privilege to have coached Liam, and I wish him the best in his endeavours in the States.”

Liam averaged 22 points in a tour to Texas playing against A5 and A6 high schools over 10 games. He is a NSW state champion and played in the Youth League competition for the Blacktown Storm, where he is a starter and major contributor.

Eighteen months on, Liam reflected upon his junior career and his selection to Salkehatchie.

“Growing up, I was always overlooked. Reaching puberty late caused me to continue to develop my skills before my body caught up. Due to this, I was

always overlooked for top teams, state teams etc, only making my first Division One representative team for the Blacktown Storm for bottom age u18’s,” Liam said.

“This constant overlooking allowed me to develop resilience and perseverance, which has allowed me to continue to develop into my senior and collegiate career. During Covid, I finally began to grow, this added size and athleticism and allowed my game to grow tremendously, combining with my growing skill level.

“In December 2023, after graduating, I went on tour to the US with “VENOA” under Coach Goran and Coach Hala. These two coaches have helped my career tremendously, mentoring and helping me develop as an athlete and as a man daily.

“Following this, I attended another tour in May 2024, where I played AAU in Georgia which is where I played in front of my current head coach, he liked what he saw and after numerous conversations offered me a scholarship.

“College Basketball in the US is a completely different lifestyle to back home, from my surrounding environment, the style of basketball, the level of play, it’s all so different. When I first arrived there was definitely an adjustment period, missing my family and my life back home but now being my second year, I’ve adapted to all these differences.

Liam is studying for an Associates of Business Marketing degree. When he moves on to a four-year college, he’ll receive the Bachelor’s Degree.

Jack Favelle fit and racing following race injuries

BY NOEL ROWSELL

JACK Favelle (Cattai) has made a successful return to racing, following his injuries from a racing crash in late-2025, finishing fourth in the Unlimited F1 category in Round Two of the St George Motorcycle Club Summer Night Series at Sydney Motorsport Park.

“Three months off the bike and what a perfect way to come back, with some racing with the St George MCC,” Jack said.

“The conditions were quite challenging, with the temperatures reaching 42 degrees. We were able to work really well with the team and specifically Anthony Quinn and move the bike forward every time I went out on track. I ended up finishing

the day really strong, with the bike feeling really solid.

“I’m really excited about being the Number One rider in the team this year and getting the opportunity to give everything I have to show what I can do!

“Thank you as always to @coach49, especially for really making me feel confident in my riding and giving me refinements to push further.”

Several other local riders from the Australian Superbikes (ASBK) series were in action on

the night, with Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) dominating the 600cc F1 category with two wins from two starts; JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) finishing third for the round in Unlimited F1; Zac Russo (Sackville North), Xavier Curmi (Wallacia) and Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) finishing seventh, eighth and twenty-third respectively in the Formula St George and Supersport 300cc/400cc category.

The full results from Round Two can be found at http://racing.natsoft.com.au/results/#2 Round Three will be held on 13-14th February.