Western News 31 October 2025

WSI Airport tests emergency protocols

WESTERN Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) commenced a two-day multi-agency emergency exercise this week, as part of the airport’s ongoing program to prepare for opening in the second half of 2026.

The exercise began on Tuesday and concluded on Wednesday, allowing WSI to test a full-scale aerodrome emergency response to a simulated aircraft incident.

The two-day program commenced just after 8am on Tuesday when a NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) 737 aircraft, operated by Coulson Aviation, landed on the WSI runway, which marked the beginning of the simulated exercise. This was the first time a 737 jet has landed at the new airport.

The purpose of the exercise was to rigorously test the airport’s preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities, in accordance with the WSI Aerodrome Emergency Plan (AEP) and ensure the airport meets CASA Certification processes required for the airport’s opening.

WSI’s operational staff alongside approximately 300 volunteers and emergency services partners from the NSW Police Force, Fire and Rescue NSW, RFS and NSW Ambulance, as well as federal agencies including Airservices Australia, the Australian Federal Police, and Australian Border Force all took part in the simulation, which involved approximately 50 emergency service vehicles.

WSI CEO Simon Hickey said this week’s exercise is another critical component of the airport’s ongoing trial program as the exciting countdown to opening in the second half of 2026 continues.

“This will be the most significant simulation we’ve carried out to date and it’s a positive opportunity for our airport staff and all first responders to test our collective resources, protocols and general preparedness in a safe, controlled environment,” he said.

“It also marks a significant milestone for Sydney’s new 24-hour airport, with our first 737 jet aircraft landing at WSI’s technologically enabled airfield – a big moment that included welcoming many community onlookers and media on site to capture the historic arrival.

“I thank the state and federal agencies for their close collaboration and the hundreds of community partners and local volunteers supporting the exercise, all of whom will help ensure WSI continues to put safety at the centre of everything we do as we prepare to welcome our first passengers next year.”

Peter Curran, Deputy CEO of

Airservices Australia said, “Airservices Australia is making a significant investment in people, infrastructure and technology to ensure we’ll be ready to provide primary emergency response capabilities to Western Sydney International Airport for the safety of aircrew and passengers.

“Our Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service will respond to an aircraft incident anywhere on the aerodrome within three minutes of the initial call.”

AFP Detective Superintendent Clinton Smith said, “Emergency exercises are invaluable opportunities for the AFP to prepare for policing operations once the airport opens in 2026. Today’s exercise enables our members to familiarise themselves with the operational environment, and to connect and form working relationships with front-line partners involved in the response to these emergency incidents.

“The AFP looks forward to overseeing the security and ensuring the safety of the travelling public at Western Sydney International Airport.”

Pink Up Blacktown High Tea

ORGANISER Councillor Julie Griffiths said the Blacktown Pink Up High Tea was an outstanding success.

Pink Up, an initiative that raises funds for the McGrath Foundation, is on every October and thanks to Cr Griffiths, Blacktown has joined in the efforts.

“Thank you to all our sponsors and thank you to Emma Willis for our boob cookies not one was left behind.

“Thank you to Blacktown City Lions, BKH, Blacktown Ponds Lions the Woodstock Hotel.

“Thank you to our Breast care Nurses and Breast Screening Panel.

“See you all next year.”

Diwali lights winners attract spectators, prizes after triumph

Bwith lights are drawing people from across Sydney to see the Blacktown City Diwali Lights Competition.

Creativity and messages of positivity adorn many homes as locals of South Asian heritage celebrate the Festival of Lights, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

One of the most popular locations has been Phantom Street in Nirimba Fields. These residents claimed the ‘Best Street’ title after telling the story of Diwali through their artistic designs.

Mayor Brad Bunting surveyed the entries and commended everyone who participated.

“Our community has embraced

this competition and you can see the smiles and conversations in the streets.

“Blacktown City is a better place for its diversity. We encourage people to share their cultural traditions so that we all might gain a better understanding of each other.”

Mayor Bunting will congratulate competition winners at a Council meeting this week. The winners share in $2,500 in prizes.

Blacktown City has a thriving South Asian community. People born in South Asian countries, particularly India, were the biggest migrant groups in Blacktown City in the 2021 Census.

The Blacktown City Diwali Lights Competition has been held since 2017

after Councillors put forward the idea to replicate the success of Council’s Blacktown City Christmas Lights Competition.

The people of Blacktown City come from more than 180 countries and Council supports many celebrations in honour of this diverse community. These events include a Mayoral Iftar reception, a Lunar New Year festival and Christmas celebrations.

Blacktown City’s cultural diversity is reflected by its leadership. There are 5 Councillors who have South Asian heritage.

The full list of winners is:

Overall City Winner

57 Hampton Crescent, Prospect

Overall City 2nd Place

24 Phantom Street, Nirimba Fields

Overall City 3rd Place

3 Rachael Place, Glenwood

Overall City 4th Place

4 Westway Avenue, Marsden Park

Overall City 5th Place

37 Coobowie Drive, The Ponds

Ward 1 Winner

37 Coobowie Drive, The Ponds

Ward 2 Winner

3 Rachael Place, Glenwood

Ward 3 Winner

57 Hampton Crescent, Prospect

Ward 4 Winner

24 Phantom Street, Nirimba Fields

Ward 5 Winner

4 Westway Avenue, Marsden Park

Best Rangoli

3 Rachael Place, Glenwood

Best Street

Phantom Street, Nirimba Fields

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From the Editor’s Desk

ABY KERRIE DAVIES

Lest We Forget: The Importance of Observing Remembrance Day

S we approach November 11, it is so important to take the time to pause, reflect, and remember the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.

Remembrance Day is not just another date on the calendar; it’s a day etched in our national identity. It presents a chance to honour the dedication and ultimate sacrifice of those who put their lives on the line so we could become the great and free nation we are today.

We live in times where so many events we have cherished are questioned or pooh-poohed. No matter how much our society evolves, our history should never be side-lined. Remembrance Day is more than wearing a poppy and observing a minute’s silence; it’s a collective acknowledgment of our history and the people who shaped it.

At 11am on November 11, we are given the opportunity to honour those who served in the line of duty, facing unimaginable hardship. This day is a reminder of their bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment to define our identity as a nation.

I urge everyone reading this to attend one of the services held locally this Remembrance Day. Stand with your neighbours, veterans, and the families of those who served and honour those who weren’t fortunate enough to return home.

It’s also a great opportunity to have a chat with a veteran. It is really important that the first-hand stories from our veterans don’t get lost in time, buried and never to be retold. If you have a connection to someone who served our country, take the time to listen to anything they’re willing to share.

And pass it on.

Whilst the historical detail and facts will always be available for future generations, the actual experiences of our veterans will not - unless we pass them on.

Lest We Forget.

The Seven Hills Toongabbie Wentworthville RSL sub-Branch will be holding their Remembrance Day Commemoration Service at the Seven Hills RSL on Tuesday 11 November, 2025. The Service will commence at 11am. At the conclusion of the Service those who attend the Service will be invited to attend the Club for a Luncheon. Seven

On November 11, 1918 at 11:00am sharp, the bells of all the churches in France began to ring in celebration that the war was finally over. Those 52 months, 1560 days of hell changed the world in every aspect with the demographic, geopolitical, economic, social and cultural that has opened wounds that would take a long time to heal.

By the time the war had ended it was estimated that nearly 10 million soldiers were killed.

When Armistice was signed in November 1918, 416 809 Australian had enlisted for service. 62,000 Australian were killed and almost 75,000 of the participating men who returned home had been deemed “Unfit for Service”.

Many local residents of the Seven Hills, Toongabbie and Wentworthville area took up the call. The names of those residents from these conflicts who never returned are etched in the Seven Hills, Toongabbie RSL Memorial Garden, Grantham Heritage Park War Memorial, the Toongabbie and Wentworthville Memorials.

Since WW1 our service personnel have died in the conflicts of World War 2, Korea, Malaya, Borneo, Vietnam and Afghanistan dash, they must not be forgotten.

Australia’s involvement in the war on terrorism and the dangers our servicemen and women who now have the responsibility to defend our country in the hour of need, we must always remember them, it is paramount that we remain committed to peace and always be prepared to defend our freedom and way of life.

New facilities for staff and students at Casuarina School

ON Thursday, the AttorneyGeneral and Federal Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland opened a new sensory garden at Casuarina School which will improve student educational outcomes for many years to come.

The project involved upgrading an outdoor sensory garden with new play and sporting facilities. The inclusion of a commissioned mural, created in collaboration with local Dharug Elders, also strengthens cultural connections and provides an ongoing learning resource.

The project was delivered with $600,000 in funding from the Albanese Government through the Schools Upgrade Fund Round 2.

More information about the Schools

Upgrade Fund Round 2 can be found at: www.education.gov.au/schoolsupgrade-fund

Attorney-General and Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland said, “A lot of work has gone into delivering the new outdoor sensory garden at Casuarina School in Riverstone, providing students with dedicated spaces to support their learning and engagement with teachers and peers.”

“The Albanese Government is committed to providing all schools with appropriate funding so that all students, including those at Casuarina School, get the best possible opportunity to support their education.”

“Every Australian child, no matter where they live, deserves to have the best school experience possible”.

Julia Bligh Johnston Remembrance Day 2025:

Lest We Forget

ON 11 November 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after four years of continuous warfare. With their armies retreating and close to collapse, German leaders signed an Armistice, bringing to an end the First World War. From the summer of 1918, the five divisions of the Australian Corps had been at the forefront of the allied advance to victory. Beginning with their stunning success at the battle of Hamel in July, they helped to turn the tide of the war at Amiens in August, followed by the capture of Mont St Quentin and Pèronne, and the breaching of German defences at the Hindenburg Line in September. By early October the exhausted Australians were withdrawn from battle. They had achieved a fighting reputation out of proportion to their numbers, but victory had come at a heavy cost. They suffered almost 48,000 casualties during 1918, including more than 12,000 dead.

In the four years of the war more than 330,000 Australians had served overseas, and more than 60,000 of them had died. The social effects of these losses cast a long shadow over the postwar decades.

Each year on this day we observe one minute’s silence at 11am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause to remember the sacrifice of those who have served and who are currently serving. We reflect upon their selfless and honourable service and extend this gratitude to their families and loved ones.

JULIA Bligh Johnston was a nursing sister from the Hawkesbury district in New South Wales, where she was born in 1861.

Julia grew up in an upper class family – her father was a magistrate, coroner and prominent in the local church.

She enjoyed a good education and was a professional nurse when she joined the first group of nurses from New South Wales to go to South Africa to serve in the Boer War. Most of these nurses were aged 25 – 41 and were single.

Julia and the other nurses worked under very challenging conditions. The hospital tents were crowded with sick and wounded soldiers.

The nurses had to cope with the smell of unwashed bodies, the presence of diseases and the confronting effects of those diseases upon the people being treated. The nurses struggled with limited medical supplies, making their work even more difficult.

Julia was awarded two service medals and she passed away in 1901. To read more visit https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/ resources/australian-women-war-service-courage-and-care

The Ode For the Fallen

THE Ode of Remembrance is a poem that is commonly recited at services to commemorate wartime sacrifice.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.

The Ode comes from For the Fallen, a poem by English poet and writer Laurence Binyon. The poem was first published in The Times on 21 September 1914. It was later published in the Winnowing Fan - Poems of the Great War.

By mid-September 1914, less than seven weeks after the outbreak of war, the British Expeditionary Force in France had already suffered severe casualties. Long lists of the dead and wounded appeared in British newspapers. It was against this background that Binyon wrote For the Fallen.

The Ode is the fourth stanza of the poem. The verse, which became the League Ode, was already used in association with Anzac Day commemoration services in Australia in 1921.

With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children

England mourns for her dead across the sea, Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of her spirit, Fallen in the cause of the free.

Solemn the drums thrill: Death august and royal Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres, There is music in the midst of desolation

And glory that shines upon our tears.

They went with songs to the battle, they were young, Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow, They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted, They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.

They mingle not with their laughing comrades again, They sit no more at familiar tables of home, They have no lot in our labour of the daytime, They sleep beyond England’s foam.

But where our desires and hopes profound, Felt as a well-spring that is hidden from sight, To the innermost heart of their own land they are known

As the stars are known to the night.

As the stars shall be bright when we are dust, Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain,

As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness,

To the end, to the end, they remain.

- Written by Robert Laurence Binyon (1869-1943)

251 Cumberland Place: A New Chapter at Redbank North Richmond

THERE’S never been a better time to make your move to Redbank North Richmond — because the next exciting chapter of this masterplanned community is officially underway. Civil works have now commenced at Cumberland Place, marking the beginning of a transformation that will soon see a beautiful new neighbourhood take shape in the heart of the Hawkesbury.

With the civil construction team now on-site, streets, services, and parkland connections are coming to life — setting the stage for what’s set to become one of the most sought-after addresses in the region. This milestone represents more than just progress; it’s the start of a lifestyle opportunity that blends space, nature, and convenience in perfect balance.

Every detail of Cumberland Place has been carefully planned to make it a standout release within the broader Redbank masterplanned community. Elevated and generously sized lots, ranging from 413m² to 891m², offer plenty of room to build your dream home and enjoy a sense of space rarely found in new developments. Selected lots capture sweeping views and prized north-east aspects — perfect for those who want a light-filled home and morning sunshine.

Just a short stroll from your doorstep, you’ll find Redbank Village — the brand-new retail and dining hub that’s already become a favourite meeting spot for locals. Parks, playgrounds, and walking trails weave throughout the estate, connecting every precinct and offering residents endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

And with only a 5% deposit required to secure your block, owning your piece of Redbank has never been easier.

Redbank North Richmond isn’t just another housing estate — it’s a community designed with purpose and vision. Inspired by the heritage and natural beauty of the Hawkesbury, Redbank has reimagined modern country living. From the moment you enter, the tree-lined streets, rolling parklands, and lakefront spaces tell a story of thoughtful design and genuine connection.

Over the past decade, Redbank has grown into a vibrant, welcoming neighbourhood — a place where families gather for outdoor movie nights, where kids ride their bikes along scenic paths, and where every park feels like an extension of your backyard. It’s a community where you don’t just live — you belong.

Cumberland Place continues this legacy, offering the next generation of residents the chance to experience what makes Redbank so special: open

space, strong community spirit, and a lifestyle surrounded by nature yet close to everything.

With 70% of the stage already sold, demand for Cumberland Place has been strong — and it’s easy to see why. As construction progresses and titles edge closer, opportunities to join this thriving community are becoming limited.

For those dreaming of a fresh start in one of North Richmond’s most desirable addresses, there’s no better time to act. Visit the Redbank Sales Display or contact the friendly team today to learn more about available lots and start planning your new beginning at Cumberland Place, Redbank North Richmond. Redbank North Richmond Sales Display

Shop 1, Redbank Village, 41D Yobarnie Avenue, North Richmond, NSW 2754

1300 289 733

Blacktown City Council opens new $15 million Disability Sports Centre

BLACKTOWN City Council has celebrated the official opening of the new Disability Sports Centre at Blacktown International Sports Park. This $15 million facility will transform access for people with disability to grassroots sport and community participation.

Developed in partnership with Disability Sports Australia and fully funded by the NSW Government’s Office of Sport, the centre is the first of its kind in Western Sydney.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the opening of the Centre reflects Council’s strong commitment to inclusion and diversity, and to helping the community be more active, more often.

“Being more active, more often is good for health, good for inclusion, and good for our whole community. This centre is about more than highperformance training. It’s about giving everyone the chance to get active, connect, and enjoy the benefits of sport.”

“By providing accessible courts, tailored amenities, and strong links with the Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub (BEST), the centre supports participation from grassroots through to elite levels. I thank the NSW Government and Disability Sports Australia for their support and look forward to seeing the lives it will change,” Mayor Bunting said.

At the opening the ribbon was cut by Paralympian Timothy Hodge.

It features two multipurpose courts, customised amenities, and fully accessible change rooms to support visitors balancing training with work, family, and study commitments.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the project was one of 12 in a $140 million program for facilities to improve talent identification and development.

“The Centre of Excellence Fund supports the development of integrated high-performance facilities and community facilities,” he said.

“Each centre of excellence features dedicated female programs and facilities to improve pathways for females as well as multi-purpose community facilities to enable the expansion of community programs and engagement.

“The opening of the new Disability Sports Centre of Excellence is a landmark day in NSW disability sports, and this facility will play a key role in Australia’s success at the Paralympic Games and World Championships.”

Improved pathways and public art, Timeflows, complement the new centre:

The Blacktown International Sports Park precinct has benefited from $1.6 million in grant funding through the NSW Government’s Metropolitan Greenspace Program for new pedestrian and cycle pathways and access across the sports park precinct.

The access upgrades include a shared pathway which connects to Charlie Bali Reserve, a shared pathway

and bridge across Angus Creek to better connect Rooty Hill Station with the Sports Park, and a stunning public artwork by local Dharug artist Shay Tobin, created in collaboration with Chris Fox and Michael Cohen.

The artwork, Timeflows, celebrates Dharug Country, exploring the history of land and water in and around Angus Creek through interwoven strands of time. Inspired by the ancient sedimentary landforms of the Cumberland Plain and the enduring connection of the Dharug people to Ngurra (Country), its sculptural forms rise from the ground like contours of the earth, symbolising layers of history and inviting reflection on the continuity of living culture in this place.

Council provided matching value for all of these projects which will help to encourage new users to access the new facilities within the sports precinct.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said improved access for pedestrians and cyclists will help the community to make the most of the new sports centre.

“The Minns Labor Government is matching housing growth and increased density with investments that create thriving communities.

“We’ve delivered better accessibility in parallel with the new Disability Sports Centre so the community can put the facility to good use from day one.”

Stephen Bali MP, Member for Blacktown and Parliamentary Secretary for Planning and Public Spaces, said this centre is a gamechanger for Western Sydney.

“As someone who has long championed Blacktown International

Sports Park, I’m proud to see this vision realised.

“The Disability Sports Centre will empower people with disability to participate, connect, and thrive in a space designed for everyone.”

A landmark facility for Western Sydney:

Disability Sports Australia, alongside Blacktown City Council, will guide the use of the new facility to ensure programs and activities uphold its purpose of providing people with disability clear pathways to participate across all levels of sport.

The Blacktown Disability Sports Centre is the latest addition to Blacktown International Sports Park, recognised as one of Australia’s premier sporting precincts and home to cricket, AFL, athletics, baseball, softball and football facilities used daily by the community.

About Disability Sports Australia: Disability Sports Australia (DSA) is a national non-profit, registered charity, and National Sporting Organisation for people with disability, dedicated to increasing participation in grassroots sport.

For over 60 years, DSA has been at the forefront of disability sport in Australia, starting with wheelchair sports and seeking to expand opportunities for people with disability across the country. Today, DSA is disability-agnostic, focusing on building the capability of sports organisations to ensure inclusive and accessible opportunities for people with disability.

Its goal is to raise awareness of the positive impact sport can have, remove barriers to participation, and build a future where sport is inclusive for all Australians.

The Story of the Blacktown Soldiers Memorial

IT was 1917 when a Notice of Motion was put to a meeting of Blacktown Shire Council: “That steps be taken to approach the ratepayers and residents of the Shire with a view to securing a subscription of one shilling from each for the purpose of erecting at the close of the war a suitable monument and roll of honour, bearing the names of all soldiers who have enlisted from the Blacktown Shire, such monument to be erected in the front of the Council Chambers.”

The motion was carried. It was then decided that the organising of the collection etc for the Memorial Fund be left in the hands of the councillors. Clr W A Lalor was appointed Secretary and Clr J C Page was appointed Treasurer. All monies collected were to be deposited in an account to be opened with the Blacktown Branch of the Government Savings Bank of NSW. The Clerk was also directed to secure designs and quotations for a small memorial tablet to be erected in the Council Chambers, to the memory of those of the Council’s own employees who were killed in action. Blacktown Shire in the early 1900s also covered Toongabbie, Wentworthville and part of Westmead.

by Jack Brook, Blacktown and District Historical Society

Throughout World War 1 (1914-1918) the councillors had on numerous occasions a vote of sympathy for family and relatives of those men killed in action. A letter of sympathy was sent to each bereaved family. On each occasion that a vote of sympathy was expressed at the Council meeting, every councillor stood as a show of respect for the departed soldier or soldiers.

Donations to the Shire Soldiers’ Memorial Fund were mounting in the Council office by the 6th February 1918, so much so that there was an urgent order to get it banked as soon as possible. Early in July, the Secretary of the Quakers Hill Progress Association had asked Council how the Memorial fund was to be utilised. The Association was informed that a general meeting of all ratepayers would be called to decide the matter. During the same month, it came to Council’s attention that before utilising the money collected, it was necessary to secure the Department of Repatriation’s approval to actually collect money for the fund. While awaiting a reply for approval, the Motor

Cycle Club of NSW sought permission to hold a “Patriotic Rate Meeting” between Blacktown and Prospect. Permission was granted on condition that the Club assumed full responsibility for any accidents occurring, and that proceeds go to the Blacktown Soldiers’ Memorial Fund.

When the reply arrived from the Department of Repatriation, Council received quite a shock because permission was refused to make further collections.

The Hon R B Orchard was contacted and he promised to make representations to Senator Miller to help resolve the matter.

In the meantime, good news arrived and at the Council meeting on the 18th November 1918 the following was expressed “...pleasure and thankfulness at the conclusion of hostilities and the great victory won by the Allies, and hoping that the world now sees an era of peace and prosperity.” The war was over. The Armistice had been signed by German plenipotentiaries (envoys) on 11 November 1918.

Permission to continue collecting money for the Memorial Fund must have been given because the Council Minutes dated 28 January 1919 state “That the Clerk draft a notice for issue with 1919 rate notices stating the amount of money in hand, and the fund will be closed on 1 May and that a meeting will then be called to decide what form the memorial will take.”

Finally after much controversy over the design and location of the memorial the unveiling took place on Saturday 1st May 1920 at the front of the Council Chambers and the day was blessed with lovely weather. Of about 300 soldiers belonging to the Shire, who had taken part in the Great War, 53 were killed. On the front portion of the pedestal was the following inscription “In memory of the Men of the Shire who fell in the Great War, 1914-1918. Lest We Forget.” Underneath were the words “Erected by the residents of the Blacktown Shire.” Then came the names of the 53 heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice.

The first Blacktown RSL Club was situated at the corner of George and Prince Streets. The present Club in Second Ave Blacktown is where the memorial is currently located today.

IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…

ALEX SONCINI

RRentvesting - enter the property market without sacrificing your current lifestyle

ISING property prices are making it tough for millennials to buy their dream home in prime locations. Many are forced to choose between sacrificing their inner-city lifestyle and homeownership.

For instance, purchasing a $1,000,000 apartment in Sydney with a 20% deposit and a loan amount of $800,000 at a 6% interest rate would result in monthly repayments of $5,164.00*. (*Principal and interest variable rate for an owner-occupied home over 25 years).

The average salary in Australia is approximately A$7,500 per month i.e. $90,000*1 annually before taxes, or A$5,857*2 after tax. This leaves approximately A$1,643 per month for living expenses.

Various sources place Sydney’s median household income in the range of about A$120,000 to A$160,000 a year, and as many are experiencing buying property is currently challenging in this market.

But fear not, there’s a strategy that lets you have your cake and eat it too: Rentvesting.

Rentvesting is a strategy where you buy an investment property in a more affordable area while continuing to rent in your preferred location. This strategy is gaining popularity among young adults due to the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional homeownership, you’re not tied down to a specific location, allowing you to enjoy the busy city life or

the charm of a beachside suburb.

With rentvesting, the rental income from your investment property can ideally cover your rent, making it a financially neutral proposition. This allows you to enjoy your current lifestyle without the extra burden of mortgage repayments.

More and more first-time buyers are embracing this approach. Instead of being confined to traditional homeownership, they’re building wealth by investing in affordable areas while renting in their desired location. Existing properties, rather than new ones, are often preferred due to their potential for higher capital growth.

However, it’s important to remember that rentvesting isn’t a magic bullet. Financial discipline is key. Focus on delayed gratification and living within your means. Avoid extravagant spending while building your portfolio.

While rentvesting offers a compelling path to property ownership, it’s not for everyone. It challenges the traditional notion of homeownership. Unlike the “Great Australian Dream” of owning a large house outright, rentvesting embraces strategic debt as a tool for wealth creation, provided you manage your budget effectively.

Consulting a financial advisor is essential if considering rentvesting, an expert can help you assess your financial situation and determine if this strategy aligns with your goals.

Contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177 for advice on optimizing your financial strategy that will allow you to maintain your current lifestyle.

Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional fax or financial advice. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. Lender terms and conditions apply, for more information please call us on 0419 600 177.

*1- Australian Bureau of Statistics

*2- ATO Simple Tax Calculator).

CROSSWORD

The Bend to host final Round of 2025 ASBK

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Bend’s prized slot as the final, high stakes Round in the mibike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) will continue into 2025, with the Tailem Bend-based circuit to host the Grand Finale from November 7-9.

The 2025 event will mark The Bend’s fifth year of bookmarking the ASBK Championship, in a period where the likes of Grand Prix riders

Jack Miller, Senna Agius and Joel Kelso have all competed, as well as Aussie world endurance champion

Josh Hook and German international Marcel Schrötter.

The 2025 Grand Finale will feature SW-Motech Superbikes, Kawasaki Supersport 600, Race and Road Supersport 300, ShopYamaha R3 Cup, BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup and Superbike Masters classes.

The Bend, officially opened in 2018, is one of the premier circuits in the world. The 18-turn international layout

used in the ASBK Championship provides a 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.

Western Sydney’s contingent of riders will all be hoping to impress in

the final event of the year, although JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) will be the only local contender in the Superbike category following the injury to Jack Favelle (Cattai) at One Raceway in Round Seven.

Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) will suit up in the Kawasaki Supersport, where he is ranked 6th for the Series, whilst Xavier Curmi (Wallacia) is placed just outside the Series leaders

in 5th spot in the BLU

Other western Sydney riders taking part in the action at The Bend include William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise), Elijah Andrew (Marayong) and Zac Russo (Sackville North), all competing in both the Road & Race Supersport 300 and ShopYamaha R3 Cup, whilst Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) will ride in the Oceania Junior Cup.

Legends of golf on show

THE Fidelity Capital Group Dave Crossman Memorial Legends Pro-Am was held at Springwood CC on Thursday 23rd October.

A field of 48 professional golfers were entered, including 2024 co-winner Richard Gilkey (USA).

Scott Ford (NSW) took out the tournament on a score of 2-under-par 67, one shot ahead of Nigel Lane (QLD) in 2nd place, with Martin Rogers (QLD), Richard Gilkey (USA), Peter Lonard (NSW) and Marcus Cain (QLD) all tied 3rd on even-Par.

The Blackheath GCC Legends Pro-Am followed on 24th October, with an allocation of 60 spots for professionals, including 2024 winner Peter Lonard.

Tim Elliott (VIC) won with a -3 65, ahead of Terry Price (QLD) and David Van Ralte (NSW) at -2 66 tied for 2nd, Scott Barr (WA), Christopher Taylor (QLD) and Ken Druce (NSW) tied 4th at -1 67 and Mark Boulton (VIC), Peter Lonard (NSW), Darryl Purchase (VIC) and Richard Gilkey (USA) tied 7th at Par 68.

The jewel in the crown will be the ‘Sharp Fit Solutions Australian PGA Seniors Championship, which will be held at Richmond GC over 7-9 November.

There will be 151 starters, including dual winners Andre Stolz (2024, 2020) and Peter Senior (2019, 2009), plus other past winners Jason Norris (2023), Guy Wall (2021) and David McKenzie (2017).

Multiple nominations for local club and riders

MOTORCYCLING NSW is excited to announce the finalists of the Road Race and Historic Road Race Rider of the Year Awards.

Blacktown Junior Mini Bike Club has been widely recognised in the awards, named as a Finalist in four separate categories, including Club of the Year, President/Chairperson of the Year (Matthew Stoneman), Administrator of the

Year (Teresa Catania) and Volunteer of the Year (Matthew Stoneham).

In other local nominations, JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) has been named as a Finalist in Open Male Rider of the Year, William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise) named as a Finalist in Junior Male Rider of the Year and Maree Kirby (Lower Blue Mts Motorcycle Club) as a Finalist in Volunteer of the Year.

The winner will be announced at the upcoming Motorcycling NSW Awards, to be held at Bankstown Sports Club on Saturday, November 15.

2025 Hawkesbury Canoe Classic

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 46th

Hawkesbury

Classic Paddle

will take place on 8th9th November. Organisers report an increase in paddler numbers over recent years with 215 paddlers registered so far. A new 31 km (Windsor to Sackville) version of the event has been introduced this year and 25 paddlers have signed up. 35 paddlers are in the mid-distance 65 km Windsor to Wisemans Ferry event and 155 paddlers are taking on the full 111 km “Classic” distance from Windsor to Mooney Mooney.

Along the 111km route, there will be 18 Safety Checkpoints (including the START and FINISH locations), so on average, a Safety Checkpoint every 5.8km along the length of the river.

Of the 18 checkpoints, there will be 11 land-based checkpoints and 7 checkpoints aboard vessels. These vessels, either hired or their use privately donated, will be crewed by Marine Rescue NSW personnel (Hawkesbury and Brisbane Water units), WICEN NSW personnel plus skippers and crew from Berowra

Waters Motor Yacht Club.

In addition to the checkpoints, the SES and Marine Rescue (Hawkesbury) will provide a further 12 vessels to carry out search and rescue and to control the car ferry crossings at Sackville, Lower Portland, Webbs Creek and Wisemans Ferry.

Over 280 volunteers will be working throughout the weekend, ensuring the smooth operation of the event and the safety of paddlers.

GPS trackers will again be used this year, having proved to be a resounding success with race officials and allowing family and friends of the paddlers to follow the event on their

electronic devices in many interstate and overseas locations.

The fastest craft down the river got to the Finish Line in 8 hrs 35 minutes elapsed time and the slowest craft finished with a time of 18 hrs 37 minutes. The ages of paddlers range from 18 year old Rhys Hibbert through to 80 year old Adrian Clayton. Both paddlers are taking on the 111 km Classic distance !

Each of the paddlers in this year’s event is required to raise a minimum of $200 and this will add to the nearly $4.5 million that has been raised previously for our principal beneficiary, Arrow Bone Marrow Transplant Foundation.

Even though the event keeps the local Hawkesbury residents off the river for a few hours on Saturday afternoon (3.00pm to sunset), with the exclusive use of the river between Macquarie Park, Freemans Reach and Sackville, the overwhelming response from the Hawkesbury business people and land-owners in 2024 was positive and they were thrilled to see the area returning to normal, post-COVID and floods.

This year’s event is sanctioned by Paddle Australia and receives sponsorship from Hawkesbury City Council, North Richmond and Richmond Bendigo Community Bank and Rotary Club of North Gosford.