Western News 6 February 2026

Western Sydney refugee who founded ‘factory’ of basketball talent named Blacktown City Citizen of the Year

ASOUTH Sudanese refugee who founded a basketball club that has engaged Western Sydney youth and produced talent for the Sydney Kings has been named Blacktown City’s Citizen of the Year.

Mr Mayor Chagai, the founder of the Savannah Pride club, was one of the winners at Blacktown City Council’s Australia Day Awards at Blacktown Civic Centre on Monday.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the winners, from a wide range of backgrounds, were recognised through the Blacktown City Australia Day Awards, which shine a spotlight on local people whose leadership and service have changed lives and helped shape the future of Blacktown and Western Sydney.

“Each of our winners has in their own way helped other people enjoy the gifts and freedoms we have in this country,” he said.

“The Blacktown City community is a great example of people from

different places and cultures who come together as Australians and lift each other up.”

Mr Chagai was born in wartorn South Sudan and discovered basketball in a Kenyan refugee camp before coming to Sydney.

A successful basketball coach, he has proven a mentor by encouraging academic achievement through his “No Study, No Play” policy and inclusivity regardless of background or skill level.

Savannah Pride has helped change lives and is an important part of the

PCYC Mount Druitt program.

Full list of Blacktown City Australia Day Award recipients

• Citizen of the Year - Mayor Chagai

• Senior Citizen of the Year - Kerri Meyer-Gleaves

Kerri has been a guide leader at Blacktown District Girl Guides for about 50 years. She has dedicated her time in assisting with Guides events and fundraisers, including domestic and international jamborees.

• Young Citizen of the YearJamison Dustin

A former Blacktown City Council Youth Ambassador, Jamison has helped give a voice to the young people of the area. As a member of the Australian Air League, City of Blacktown Squadron, Jamison was named Air League Federal Cadet of the Year.

• Environmental Citizen of the Year - Robert Kefford

Robert has been working for years improving the landscape and grounds of Duncan Park at Seven Hills. He dedicates most mornings to making the park a beautiful space that people and animals can enjoy.

• Community Group of the Year202 Blacktown Army Cadet Unit Run by volunteers, the unit prides itself on being one of the largest in Australia and instils national pride and discipline in young people.

• Community Event of the YearHindu Council of Australia

The Deepavali Festival at Blacktown Showground has gone from strength to strength and attracted about 20,000 people last year. It includes cultural performances, traditional cuisine and light displays.

Stronger conduct rules for schools, explicit ban on hate speech

ALL NSW school staff, including principals and school leaders, will be subject to strengthened conduct requirements that explicitly prohibit hate speech, under reforms to be announced today by the Minns Labor Government.

A NSW Government statement claimed that the changes close a clear gap in existing guidance, which does not adequately address the incitement of hate speech, and make unequivocally clear that engaging in hate speech will not be tolerated by any NSW school.

The changes will come into effect immediately and will apply across more than 3,000 government, independent and Catholic schools and will tighten the rules governing the conduct of all school staff, including school leaders.

Hate speech will be explicitly prohibited in the Codes of Conduct set out by all school sectors and will now apply to all members of school staff.

Premier Chris Minns said the changes to the rules follow the new hate speech legislation passed by both the state and Commonwealth governments and build on the Minns Labor Government’s recent legislation to strengthen laws against hate speech and hate crimes, making clear that there is no place

for extremism or vilification in our classrooms or our state.

A review into the process to assess a fit and proper person - the legal test required for school leadership - is currently underway to investigate if it is fit for purpose and whether the current standards meet community expectations.

Under the new arrangements, expectations

around acceptable conduct will be made clearer in the school registration manuals.

NESA is updating its rules in early Term 1, 2026, which will require all schools to prohibit hate speech in their Codes of Conduct for all people employed at the school.

“Until now, the rules haven’t been clear enough. Schools should be places where young people feel safe, respected and supported, not exposed to hate or extremism,” Premier Minns said.

“These changes make it absolutely clear that hate speech has no place in any NSW classroom, from any staff member, in any school and it gives the regulator clear guidelines to act.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the vast majority of principals and teachers in NSW schools do an incredible job and they are committed to our students and their education.

“These common-sense changes are about maintaining this high standard and giving parents peace of mind,” Ms Car said.

“When parents send their children to school in NSW, they can know they’re learning in a safe and supportive environment.”

Great Koala National Park a step closer

THE NSW Government is seeking community input to shape recreational opportunities in the proposed Great Koala National Park on the NSW Mid North Coast.

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on an election promise to create a Great Koala National Park, which will provide habitat for more than 100 threatened species, including more than 12,000 koalas and 36,000 greater gliders.

The Park will also create opportunities for better visitor experiences and recreation, boosting tourism

and local economies.

An online survey is now open on the NSW Have Your Say website to seek feedback on current use of the State Forests and reserves within the planned area of the park. They also want to hear from people who haven’t been to the region but might like to in the future.

The survey complements ongoing wider consultation with community groups who have so far provided more than 300 responses on what matters most to them when they visit these areas.

Input from 4WD clubs, mountain biking clubs, hiking/bushwalking clubs, archery and gun clubs, sporting car clubs, local government, environment groups and Aboriginal communities is already feeding into the planning for future management.

The Have Your Say survey is open from 7am today until Sunday, 1 March and is available online: www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/great-koalanational-park

More than 20,000 wellwishers to ring in Year of the Horse at Doonside celebrations

SPECTACULAR fireworks, lion dancing and a visit from the God of Wealth will be among the fun at Blacktown City’s Lunar New Year Celebrations at Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside, on 20 February.

More than 20,000 people are expected to welcome the Year of the Horse during five hours of free family

festivities in the picturesque Chang Lai

Yuan Chinese Gardens.

Spectators will have phones poised to photograph highlights such as lion performers dancing across the bridge, and dragon performers weaving their way through the crowds.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting encouraged everyone to come

Time running out to nominate candidates for Blacktown City Woman of the Year

JUST days remain to nominate women who have made outstanding contributions or inspired others for the honour of Blacktown City Woman of the Year.

Nominations are open until midnight on Thursday 12 February and Blacktown City Council will recognise finalists as part of its International Women’s Day breakfast on 9 March.

Mayor Brad Bunting encouraged people to nominate a woman who deserves recognition.

“I have met many women who do so much to help others and do not get the plaudits they deserve,” he said.

“These women don’t expect or ask for credit, but that should not stop us from showing how much we value them.

“The Blacktown City Woman of the Year award is one way we can say thank you and honour them with an accolade they have earned.”

People can nominate a woman they know via blacktown.nsw.gov.au/iwd The webpage contains awards criteria.

Oakhurst nurse Melissa Katoa was the 2025 recipient. She has volunteered her expertise to help single mothers and domestic violence victims.

Melissa has also used her involvement in church and the Pacific Islander community to assist women to live independently.

Council announces the Blacktown City Woman of the Year as part

and enjoy the occasion.

“We can all share in the basic premise of Lunar New Year, which is new beginnings, hope for the future, and coming together with those you love most,” he said.

“Our Lunar New Year Celebrations offer something for people of all ages, so come and enjoy the Year of the Horse with your neigh-bours.”

People born in the Year of the Horse are said to be strong and independent.

The Lunar New Year Celebrations program includes plenty for children. Activities include rides, kite painting, face painting, making oriental hats and Year of the Horse origami.

Celebrations begin at 4 pm, followed by the official opening and firecrackers at 7 pm, before the fireworks finale fills the night sky at 9 pm.

of celebrations in the week of International Women’s Day (8 March).

Communities around the world on International Women’s Day honour women’s contributions and advocate for gender equality.

Council’s breakfast on 9 March includes a guest speaker (to be announced) and is a great opportunity to meet and learn from like-minded women. The event is regularly booked out.

Council has celebrated its Women of the Year awards since 2008 as part of a wide-ranging program to encourage women and girls to achieve their dreams.

This includes working closely with social services groups to ensure safety and support, ongoing consultation with the Women’s Advisory Committee, and the annual Women’s Forum.

Lunar New Year Celebrations

When: 4 pm to 9 pm, Friday 20 February

Where: Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens, Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside

What: two stages of entertainment, cultural performances, children’s activities, fireworks finale

Entry: free

Details: 2026 Lunar New Year Celebrations - Blacktown City

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

Anita Cobby remembered 40 years on

IT has now been 40 years since the crime that shocked Australia and made Anita Cobby a household name for the saddest of reasons. We posted a story on Facebook that has been viewed almost 400,000 times confirming that it was truly a tragedy that shook our nation to its core.

I was a teenager when five loathsome creatures took the life of beautiful Anita, and, like everyone else old enough to remember this horrific crime, it is etched in my mind forever as a stark reminder that unspeakable evil does exist.

The brutality the 26-year-old nurse was subjected to devastated her family, reduced even the most hardened police officers to tears and broke the heart of a nation.

It was on February 2 in 1986 that Anita took that fateful walk from Blacktown station to her home. She usually called her father to pick her up, but on this night, the phone box was broken.

The five criminals stopped and she was pulled into the car. After torturing her in what must have been the most terrifying car ride, Anita was taken to a field in Prospect where she was systematically raped and tortured further, before finally having her throat cut by the ring-leader and left to die a lonely death.

News was first broadcasted into our loungerooms that the young nurse was missing. Then, the devastating news that she’d been found so brutally murdered.

Australia’s collective heart broke all the more when we saw Anita’s parents, Garry and Grace Lynch, who were so lovely and showed so much dignity throughout their ordeal. It hurt to see such sweet parents in unimaginable pain.

The details of what Anita was subjected to were revealed in an autopsy report. Many people including emergency services, journalists and political leaders set out to read the report – but found the circumstances so horrendous that they couldn’t finish it.

Once arrested, community outrage rose to a level never seen before in this country. The court appearances of the five men were always packed with members of a very angry public calling for their heads.

All five men, who had over 50 previous convictions between them, would be found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment, never to be released.

Anita’s parents endured the unimaginable, yet in the subsequent years focused on other families struggling to cope with homicide, establishing the Homicide Victims Group with Christine and Peter, the parents of Ebony Simpson.

Finding themselves to be members of a club nobody would ever want to be in, Anita’s parents endured the unimaginable, yet in the subsequent years focused on other families struggling to cope with homicide, establishing the Homicide Victims Group with Christine and Peter, the parents of Ebony Simpson. Garry and Grace have both passed away now.

Documentaries on Anita’s murder have aired over the years, and a book has been published called ‘Someone Else’s Daughter.’

Sadly the title came from a quote by Garry Lynch (Anita’s father) who said, “I could wish it was someone else’s daughter, but I can’t, can I? They would then have to go through what we’re going through.”

He was a very decent man. A stark contrast to his daughter’s brutal killers. RIP Anita Cobby. Never forgotten.

Return to work update

BY PRUE CAR MP

I’M pleased to share that I am returning to work tomorrow to kick off the new school year for 2026.

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me through what’s been a difficult seven months through my breast cancer journey.

I have been incredibly lucky to receive an amazing amount of love and support - from my husband Brad and our children, from my colleagues and from the community I am proud to represent.

Thank you to the incredible team at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. I’m in awe of what they do every single day.

Thank you to NSW Premier Chris Minns. Just as he has supported so many across NSW in tough times, he has supported me and my family every step of the way through this difficult period.

Thank you to my colleague Courtney Houssos, who stepped in and seamlessly became the Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Acting Minister for Western Sydney. Courtney has done a phenomenal job, and her steadfast support allowed me to focus on my recovery.

The experience of overcoming breast cancer has certainly changed me. What hasn’t changed is my unwavering commitment to deliver for the people of New South Wales, for the beautiful community I represent in Western Sydney, as well as continuing our nation-leading reform program in education across New South Wales.

I can’t wait to get back to work for the people of NSW. To my family and friends. To my colleagues.

To the wonderful doctors and nurses. Thank you so much.

NSW Health issues alert for measles

NSW Health is advising people to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case who was infectious whilst visiting locations in greater western Sydney.

The case has returned from Thailand, where there is an ongoing outbreak of measles.

People who attended the following locations should watch for symptoms of measles. These locations do not pose an ongoing risk.

- Priceline Pharmacy St Clair from 3:00pm to 4:00pm on Wednesday 14 January 2026. Please watch for symptoms until 2 February 2026.

- Nepean Hospital Emergency Department from 7:50pm on Friday 16 January 2026 to 7:40pm Saturday 17 January 2026. Please watch for symptoms until 5 February 2026.

For a full list of public exposure locations visit the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov. au/Infectious/measles/Pages/public-exposurelocations.aspx

Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Public Health Specialist, Dr Alvis Zibran, said anyone who visited the above locations at those times should monitor for symptoms.

“If symptoms develop, see your doctor or health service (including emergency department). Call ahead to let them know that you may have come into contact with measles, so you don’t spend time in waiting rooms with other patients,” Dr Zibran said.

“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, runny nose, sore eyes and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body.

“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it’s important for people who visited these locations to look out for symptoms for this period.”

Measles is a vaccine preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes.

“We want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough,” Dr Zibran said.

“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious.

“Anyone born after 1965 needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel, as

measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment.”

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, and is given free for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is also free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t already had two doses.

Children under the age of 12 months can have a dose of MMR up to six months early if they are travelling overseas. Parents should consult their GP.

People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age).

For more information on measles, view the measles fact sheet: www.health.nsw.gov.au/ infectious/factsheets/pages/measles_factsheet. aspx

If you, or a loved one, is experiencing measles symptoms, or have questions about measles, please call your GP or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

Star power lineup confirmed for 2026 Premier’s Gala Concerts

A GLITTERING lineup of performers are set to grace the stage for the NSW Seniors Festival Premier’s Gala Concerts at Darling Harbour.

Free tickets to the concerts, billed as a highlight of the Seniors Festival, will be available to all New South Wales Seniors. The theme for the 2026 NSW Seniors Festival is ‘Live life in colour’.

Internationally acclaimed talent Dami Im, celebrated singer Nathan Foley, beloved entertainer Jay Laga’aia, rising star Olivia Fox and powerhouse performer Tarryn Stokes will round out the lineup and deliver spectacular entertainment.

Four performances will be held at the TikTok Entertainment Centre Darling Harbour (formerly ICC Sydney Theatre) on 11 and 12 March at 11am and 2.45pm.

Concerts will be live streamed to ensure seniors unable to attend in person can still enjoy festivities.

Last year, the Premier’s Gala Concerts sold out with close to 32,000 tickets issued.

PREMIER’S GALA CONCERTS

Location: Tik Tok Entertainment Centre (formerly ICC Sydney Theatre), Darling Harbour

Dates: 11 and 12 March

Times: 11am and 2.45pm

The NSW Seniors Festival Expo will also be returning in 2026 with exhibitors offering services and support to seniors, including interactive workshops, food and fitness tips.

Free tickets for the Premier’s Gala Concerts will be available from 9am on 27 January 2026 at: https:// seniorsfestival.info/galaconcert

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“The Premier’s Gala Concerts always generate significant excitement from seniors across New South Wales and this year’s event is shaping up to be unforgettable.

“Older people in New South Wales make an outstanding contribution to our communities and these concerts are about giving back and valuing them.

“The Seniors Festival expo is only a stone’s throw away from the concerts, with exhibitors offering everything from health and travel information to hands-on activities, technology support, and creative workshops.”

Dami Im, performer said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of this year’s Premier’s Gala Concerts. The NSW Seniors Festival is such a special occasion, and I’m excited to perform for this beautiful audience. It’s going to be a wonderful couple of days filled with music, fun, and celebration!”

Jay Laga’aia, performer said:

“What an exciting time of the year! Seniors are such a valuable part of our community and it’s an honour to bring joy to so many at the Premier’s Gala Concerts. We’ve got amazing performers, a brilliant band, beautiful dancers, and more. I can’t wait to bring a little old school vibe to a beautiful gathering.”

Raise a puppy and change a life

ASSISTANCE Dogs Australia (ADA) is calling on residents to become fulltime puppy volunteers, helping raise the next generation of life-changing Assistance Dogs.

The not-for-profit organisation is seeking volunteers to provide a safe, stable and loving home for puppies from around 8-18 weeks of age until approximately 15 months. During this time, volunteers play a vital role in the puppy’s early development, socialisation and basic training before the dog progresses into formal Assistance Dog training.

The full-time volunteer role is best suited to people who work from home, are retired, or have flexible schedules, as puppies should not be left alone for long periods.

ADA Volunteer Program Manager, Kristie Worthy, said puppy volunteers were essential to the success of the organisation’s programs.

“Our volunteers play a vital role in every Assistance Dog journey. By opening their homes and their lives to a puppy, they help shape calm, confident dogs that will one day provide independence and support to someone who truly needs it,” Mrs Worthy said.

Puppy volunteers introduce their puppy to everyday home life, public environments and new experiences, all while being supported by ADA’s

experienced training team. All food, veterinary care, equipment and ongoing training support are provided by Assistance Dogs Australia. Prior experience with dogs is helpful but not essential.

“Assistance Dogs change lives, but they don’t get there on their own. Every Assistance Dog starts out as

a puppy, and every puppy needs a dedicated volunteer to guide them through those critical early months,” Mrs Worthy said.

By participating in the program, volunteers help create Assistance Dogs that go on to support Australians with physical disabilities, children and families with autism, and people

with post-traumatic stress disorder. Residents interested in becoming a puppy volunteer can find more information or register their interest by visiting: assistancedogs.org.au/ volunteer

If you would like to speak with ADA further regarding this, please give me a shout.

Expression of Interest released for new Civic and Administration Building

BLACKTOWN City Council has commenced the first stage of the delivery process for a new Civic and Administration Building in the Blacktown City Centre, calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from organisations with experience in major civic projects to help design and build the facility.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the EOI reflects the scale of growth the city is experiencing and the need for Council to plan.

“Blacktown City is growing at an extraordinary pace, with our population expected to exceed 600,000 residents in the coming decades – and our Council needs to keep up,” Mayor Bunting said.

“This Expression of Interest is about Council services. It’s about making sure Council has the capacity, facilities and flexibility needed to deliver our services, manage growth and meet community expectations into the future.”

The proposed Civic and Administration Building would bring together Council chambers, customer service facilities, civic and community spaces, and a modern workplace for Council staff within the Blacktown City Centre.

Mayor Bunting said a contemporary building was essential to supporting efficient service delivery for a growing city.

“A modern Civic and Administration Building is

about more than bricks and mortar,” he said.

“It’s about creating modern workplaces that help staff work together and serve the community better.”

The EOI is the first stage of a two-part procurement process and will help determine market interest ahead of a potential detailed Request for Tender.

Further information on the Expression of Interest process is available via the NSW Government’s procurement platform, buy.nsw.gov.au.

Hawkesbury City Council celebrates Australia Day Award winners

HAWKESBURY City Council has congratulated the nine winners of the 2026 Australia Day Awards at a ceremony at the Council’s chambers in Windsor last week.

The winners are:

Citizen of the Year Award: Bruce Earle

Young Citizen of the Year Award: Bailey Carle

Community Organisation of the Year Award: Barking with Bianca Sports Person of the Year Award x 2: Mackenzie Patterson Hollibone and Leanne Leach

Local Hero Award x 2: Helen Knobbs and Anne Marks

Environmental Award x 2: Stephen Brown and Kevin O’Connor

Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather said he was delighted to be recognising the incredible work undertaken by outstanding members of the Hawkesbury community.

“To be with all of you while you are honoured with an Australia Day Award is a great privilege. You are all people who care about your community and commit time and skill to the improvement of it. Today we recognise that,” Mayor Sheather said.

“Whether it’s by inspiring others, helping others or by sharing knowledge, your contribution is appreciated and is to be commended,”

Mayor Sheather said.

2026 Hawkesbury Australia Day Award winners

Citizen of the Year – Bruce Earle

This award is given to a person who has contributed significantly to the Hawkesbury, creating long-term benefits for our community, and who has demonstrated selflessness, commitment and involvement in the Hawkesbury.

Bruce Earle has been awarded this year’s Citizen of the Year Award for his long standing and impactful membership with the Freemans Reach Rural Fire Brigade.

Bruce has been a member of the brigade since he was 16 years old, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, father and mother. He has held almost every position at the brigade and has been Captain for almost 20 years.

In his time as Captain, Bruce has rebuilt the Freemans Reach Fire Brigade from a place of minimal membership to be a thriving, highly trained and cohesive group of firefighters that play a pivotal role in protecting the community during bushfire season. This was on display during the Gosper’s Mountain Fire, where Bruce led the Freemans Reach Brigade, while also stepping up into Divisional Commander Roles and coordinating the wider district’s response to the devastating fire.

Bruce is a natural leader, who is humble and whose passion for contributing to local Rural Fire

Brigades is infectious.

Young Citizen of the Year Award – Bailey Carle

This award is given to a person, 25 and under, who has contributed significantly to the Hawkesbury and has demonstrated selflessness, commitment, and involvement in activities in the Hawkesbury.

Bailey has overcome personal adversity to excel at the game he loves - basketball. Often playing well above his age group, Bailey plays basketball in the Hawkesbury 6 nights a week proudly wearing his mum’s number, 65.

Last year Bailey was selected to train and play basketball with youth teams in the USA, and he has once again been selected to return to the USA in 2026. Bailey is a great ambassador for basketball and for the Hawkesbury.

Community Organisation of the Year – Barking with Bianca

This award is awarded to a voluntary service or community group for their outstanding contribution to the wellbeing of the Hawkesbury community.

Barking with Bianca is a Doggy Day Care operating now for over 30 years.

Not only does this organisation provide pets with supervised play and socialisation in a safe environment, training, pet sitting and dog walking – they are also dedicated to community and charity work.

The organisation, through the owner Bianca, collects pet related donations and distributes them to people in need. They also partner with mental health and emotional support organisations, using therapy dogs to bring joy and emotional support to its members through interaction with animals.

Barking with Bianca also provides puppy therapy programs for vulnerable members of the community.

Sportsperson of the Year Award x 2 – Mackenzie Patterson

Hollibone and Leanne Leach

The sportsperson of the year is awarded to a committed sportsperson, team, coach or volunteer whose actions inspire and encourage others.

Mackenzie Patterson Hollibone

Mackenzie is a 19 year old professional athlete based in the Hawkesbury who has excelled at Showjumping. Mackenzie has received multiple awards for showjumping at state and national levels and is currently studying Veterinary Technology at university.

She now gives back to the equestrian community by volunteering at her local club, Sydney Showjumping.

Leanne Leach

Leanne has chalked up an incredible 53 years of service for the Hawkesbury City Netball Associations Representative Committee and the Riverstone Netball Club.

=Over her five decades of dedication to Hawkesbury netball, Leanne has been a constant presence whether it’s coaching or mentoring and supporting players, coaches and volunteers.

Leanne’s commitment strengthens the entire netball community and will leave a lasting legacy for Hawkesbury netball.

Environmental Award x 2 – Stephen Brown and Kevin O’Connor

The Environmental Award is awarded to an individual or group for their outstanding contribution and dedication to protect and enhance Hawkesbury’s natural environment.

Stephen and Kevin are Pitt Town’s gardening dream team, taking great pride in the presentation of their local community.

Both Stephen and Kevin regularly mow the entry and exit points of Pitt Town and other community areas, ensuring the community they love shines for locals and visitors.

Stephen and Kevin also generously give their time to maintain the lawns

and yards of community members who are unable to due to illness. They both serve as members of the Pitt Town Progress Association and in 2020 Stephen was given lifetime membership as acknowledgement of his service.

Local Hero Award x 2 – Helen Kobbs and Anne Marks

Our Local Hero Award goes to an individual that has shown outstanding dedication and contribution to one or more specific areas of the Hawkesbury through either voluntary services, expertise or community leadership that has led to the betterment of the quality of life of others.

Helen Knobbs

Helen has been volunteering at the Hawkesbury Community Kitchen for an incredible 35 years, devoting many hours - through rain, hail or sunshine - to cooking and serving thousands of meals to those in need.

Helen has been described as compassionate, selfless, a great mentor, and someone who always puts others before herself.

Anne Marks

Anne has received this award for her dedication to the macropod family, which includes kangaroos, wallabies, tree kangaroos, pademelons and other marsupials. Anne has been a member of Wires since 2018 and in this time has rescued, cared for, and managed almost 900 macropods.

In her work as a rescuer and carer, Anne identified patterns in the road crossing behaviour of kangaroos and started collecting data. Her research led to the installation of one kilometre of virtual fencing along Hawkesbury’s roads to improve Kangaroo and driver safety.

Anne continues to advocate at all levels of government for better lighting, virtual fencing and community education around macropods to further increase their safety and the safety of the community.

ESIDENTS across Blacktown City are invited to drop in and speak directly with the Mayor and local Councillors as Blacktown City Council continues its program of pop-up community forums across our city.

The forums are held in busy local shopping centres, making it easier for residents to ask questions, raise concerns and find information about what is happening in the city and in their community.

The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting, said the pop-up forums make it easier for residents to speak directly with their Mayor and Councillors without the need for appointments or formal meetings. These forums are about listening.”

Council staff will also be on hand to help record enquiries and ensure follow-up responses are provided.

The upcoming pop-up forums are:

Ward 2

Saturday 21 February

Outside Woolworths, Quakers Court, Quakers Hill

9.30am to 11.30am

Ward 1

Saturday 28 February

Outside McDonalds Stanhope Village 9am to 11am

Ward 5

Saturday 7 March

Near the entrance to Coles, Elara Village Shopping Centre

9.30am to 11.30am

Ward 3

Saturday 14 March

Outside Westpoint (station side near Chemist Warehouse)

2pm to 4pm

Ward 4

Saturday 21 March

Outside the Medical and Dental Centre, Rooty Hill Road North 9.30am to 11.30am

Residents are welcome to attend at any time during the session. No registration is required. For more information, visit blacktown. nsw.gov.au or follow Council’s social media channels.

Thomas Easterbrook

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

THOMAS was born in Devonport, England in 1781 to parents John & Elizabeth Easterbrook (Doidge). In August 1801 at the age of 20 Thomas married Mary Ann Coombe by banns at Buckland Monachorum in Devon. Mary Ann was born in 1785 at Saltash, Cornwall in England and had received a good education and Thomas had also received some education. He was a miller by trade, receiving an apprenticeship in his early years. In 1820 he appeared before the Devon Assizes at Exeter where he was accused of stealing and killing a ram sheep valued at 40/- from John Hyne at Charles, Plymouth. Physically Thomas was said to be 5’6’’ with grey eyes and black hair. His appearance at the Assizes he pleaded innocent but was found guilty and sentenced to be hanged that was later changed to transportation to Australia for life. In October Thomas sailed for Port Jackson aboard the convict ship “Prince of Orange”. Thomas joined the ship at Spithead in Portsmouth a few days before sailing. The male convicts came from all over England and Ireland, most were farm labourers or tradesmen such as blacksmiths, twine spinners and carpenters. At sea they were guarded by a detachment of soldiers of the 34th Regiment of the 17th Foot. The guards worked independently of the ship’s crew of 30 men. From Portsmouth and down the Atlantic into the roaring forties the ship sailed around the bottom of the globe to Australia and through the southern latitudes where symptoms of scurvy began to appear, but quickly went away with the use of lemon juice. They arrived at Sydney Cove in February 1821, but Thomas remained onboard for a further five days when he was transferred to a smaller vessel and travelled to Parramatta up the Parramatta River. He was among 20 men shipped to Parramatta that day, when Thomas and four of his shipmates were met by Hannibal Macarthur their new employer. In August 1815 the Macarthur’s purchased the “Vineyard” from Phillip Schaefer that was sitting on the north bank of the Parramatta River. As part of his business Macarthur owned and operated a large water mill that sat at the confluence of the Vineyard Creek and the Parramatta River. He provided a milling service for His Majesty’s Stores at Parramatta as well as grinding his own grain. Competent millers were in demand in the colony in the 1820’s and Thomas’ skills were to be put to good use. Thomas had been in Australia two years when in February 1823 at the recommendation of Hannibal Macarthur and the Governor Thomas Brisbane, Thomas was included in a “List of Applicants” to have their wives and families sent out to the colony at the expense of the Crown. At this time Mary Ann and their two youngest children, Abraham born in 1813 and Isaac born in 1820 were living at Stoke Demerel at Plymouth Dock. Mary Ann and the children appeared to have lived in that vicinity from the time of Thomas’ transportation. Their eldest son John stayed in England but later committed a crime that saw him convicted and sentenced to NSW. By the time Governor Brisbane’s list reached England on the ship “Surry” an arrangement for Mary’s passage made in 1823 had almost passed, but in December Mary Ann, Abraham and Isaac joined 53 other dependents of convicts aboard the ship “Brothers” at Portsmouth. The ship was a female convict transport and as well as the dependents it carried 89 female convicts. Many women were seasick for the first few days at sea but apart from stormy conditions in March 1824 the weather became very mild and the voyage relatively comfortable. After the long voyage down the Atlantic and across the southern ocean they finally reached Hobart where 50 of the female convicts disembarked and then

they sailed for Sydney Cove arriving in May. Mary Ann petitioned Sir Thomas Brisbane the Governor of the Colony for the release of her husband as it was common practice for convicts to be assigned to their wives once the families were reunited, and it would appear that Mary Ann left England with some such understanding, and she wrote: “Previous to my leaving London I was informed at Earl Bathurst’s Office that on my arrival in Australia my husband would be assigned to me and thereby have an opportunity of providing for me and my family”

The Colonial Secretary in turn wrote to Hannibal Macarthur at Vineyard Cottage in July 1825 asking him to discharge Thomas. Ten days later Macarthur replied saying that he was willing to discharge Thomas if he could be “provided with a man capable of taking his place”. The family then reunited at Parramatta and it was apparent that Thomas’ skills were in demand and his job secure. He was receiving a salary of £20 per year and was part of the large estate. Hannibal Macarthur had established a very comfortable estate at “Vineyard”, however he shared little of his wealth with his assigned servants. In a later letter to the Colonial Secretary, Mary Ann complained of her situation saying, “If I thought before I left my Country and my friends that I should have suffered so much poverty, I positively would never have made such a long voyage, notwithstanding the affection I bear my husband”. Thomas was finally given his independence and the family moved to Black Wattle Swamp in Sydney where he died in 1837 at the age of 56 and was buried in the Old Devonshire Street Cemetery. John was granted a ‘Certificate of Freedom’ in August 1831 and remained in Sydney until his death in April 1843 at the age of 40 and was buried with Thomas, but later the monuments were moved to the Bunnerong cemetery at Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park, Botany. Isaac married Ann Malady in February 1840 in Sydney and later around this time the family moved to Singleton where he died at Patrick Plains in July 1864 aged 48 and is buried at Whittingham Cemetery Singleton. Abraham left the Vineyard and moved to the Richmond area eventually becoming a miller at Pitt Town on the Hawkesbury River. He married Ann Miles at Richmond in 1835 and they later moved to Mulgoa. He died in October 1880 and is buried at St Thomas’ Church of England Cemetery. According to Ancestry’s Australian Death Records Mary Ann died in 1850 at the age of 65 at Mulgoa and is buried in St Thomas’ cemetery.

Sources: Australian Royalty website, Family Search (Mormon website), National Library of Australia, Trove, 1828 Census, Australian Marriage Index, Ancestry family information.

IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…

ALEX SONCINI

ATime to React – Home Loans and what to do in a Volatile Rate Environment

S we enter the first week of February 2026, Australia’s mortgage market is bracing for another pivotal moment. With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) set to announce its first interest rate decision of the year on Tuesday, borrowers and homeowners face renewed uncertainty. This article was written before the RBA meeting, and while markets widely expect a rate increase, even an unlikely decision to hold rates steady should prompt borrowers to review their financial position.

Rising Inflation Keeps Pressure on Rates

Inflation has remained stubbornly high, with the Consumer Price Index rising 3.8% in the 12 months to December 2025, up from 3.4% in November. The RBA’s preferred underlying measure — the trimmed mean — also increased to 3.3%, reinforcing concerns that price pressures are not easing quickly enough.

These hotterthanexpected figures have shifted expectations sharply. Economists across major banks and research groups now anticipate a 25basispoint rate hike at Tuesday’s meeting, lifting the cash rate from 3.60% to 3.85%.

Market Expectations Ahead of the RBA Meeting

All of Australia’s Big Four banks — CBA, ANZ, Westpac and NAB — now forecast at least one rate increase in February, with some expecting further tightening later in the year. NAB and RBC Capital

Markets even project multiple hikes if inflation remains persistent.

Financial markets are pricing in a high probability of a February increase, and many lenders have already lifted fixed rates in anticipation.

What This Means for Borrowers

Regardless of the RBA’s final decision on Tuesday, the message for borrowers is the same: Do not wait. Review your home loan position now.

Here’s why:

1. Higher repayments may be imminent

If the RBA raises the cash rate, variable mortgage rates will follow, increasing monthly repayments for millions of households.

2. Even if rates stay on hold, pressure remains The RBA has made it clear that it is “datadependent”

and will act again if inflation does not ease. A pause now does not mean relief is coming.

3. Borrowing capacity may tighten

Higher assessment rates reduce how much banks are willing to lend, affecting both new borrowers and those seeking topups.

4. Refinancing activity remains strong

With uncertainty rising, refinancing continues to surge as borrowers seek sharper rates and more flexible loan structures.

Why Reviewing Your Loan Now Matters

The mortgage market is highly competitive, with banks and nonbank lenders offering a wide range of products. A strategic review could help you:

• Reduce your interest rate

• Improve your loan structure

• Access better features (offset, redraw, fixed/ variable splits)

• Strengthen your financial resilience in a risingrate environment

Whether you’re refinancing or purchasing, taking action now can put you in a stronger position — especially if rates continue to rise through 2026. Get Expert Guidance

For a clearer understanding of your options, contact Alex Soncini at on 0419 600 177 or email to alex.soncini@wealthwiz.com.au

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. A method of painting using emulsions (7)

5. Photograph (7)

9. Tongue-in-cheek (9)

10. Assuredness (5)

11. Bon vivant (7)

12. Aerial (7)

13. Astonishment (9)

15. A thin coagulable body fluid (5)

17. Stalks (5)

19. Waterproofed canvas (9)

22. Unvarying (7)

25. Forsake (7)

26. Loamy deposit (5)

27. Draw (9)

28. Demolish (7)

29. Low-pitched (7)

DOWN

1. A crisp smooth lustrous fabric (7)

2. Plot (9)

3. Squeeze out (7)

4. Compensation for a wrong (9)

5. Noodles (5)

6. Uppercase (7)

7. Labor association (5)

8. Kind of facial hair (7)

14. A bad-tempered woman (9)

16. An extravagantly theatrical play (9)

17. Run-down (7)

18. A financial supporter (7)

20. Not professional (7)

21. Convent (7)

23. Concepts (5)

24. Sentimental (5)

PCRA Bridgestone Festival of Speed

THE Post Classic Racing Association of NSW (PCRA) is hosting

the ‘Bridgestone Festival of

at Sydney Motorsport Park this weekend 7th-8thFebruary.

The 40th Anniversary meeting will include all historic categories and capacities, Superbike Masters,

Local golfers contest NSW Amateur Match Play

SEVENTEEN western Sydney golfers contested the 2026 NSW Amateur Championships, with Richmond’s Ti Fox (Concord GC), Nihal Gaundar (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Twin Creeks’ Darcy Mackay (The Australian GC) and Jordan Springs’ Coby Carruthers (Concord GC) all finishing in the top 32 players in the NSW Medal to earn places in the Match Play Championships.

Coby was subsequently defeated in the Round of 32, Darcy and Nihal defeated in the Round of 16 but Ti played strongly to win through to the Round of 4 (semi-finals), before being narrowly defeated 2&1 by the eventual runner-up Adam Baillie (The Vines GC).

Darcy had finished tied second in the NSW Medal, one shot back from winner Jye Halls (NSW GC), whilst Ti finished one shot further back in fourth. Darcy also won the Champion of Champions title (representing Twin Creeks GC), finishing well ahead of 52 other club champions competing at the NSW Medal.

Darcy, Ti and Coby are all in action again this week in Western Australia, contesting the 2026 Australian Amateur Championships.

Nolan, Dave

Presidents Cup, sidecars, trade stands, Club displays, Historic Bike display, BBQ and 2025 Club Championship Award presentation on Saturday evening, celebrating PCRA’s 40th Anniversary, free camping for both competitors and officials, cheap camping for spectators (under 16 free).

Annandale Leichhardt Motorcycle

Club are proud and honoured to have worked with the Bayliss family and to remember the stalwarts of the sport with the introduction of the Stan, Barnie and Griz Bayliss Memorial Cup, which will be contested in the first Sidecar race on Saturday. The full race schedule is available on the Supersports of NSW Facebook page.

Exciting Autumn calendar of Polo

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 2026 Autumn Polo Calendar is live on the Polo NSW website and among the key Polo NSW tournaments are:

Polo NSW Women’s Championships – The Hawkesbury district will once again host the Polo NSW Women’s Championships, welcoming multiple teams and talented women players from around Australia and the world. Finals will be held on Thursday, 2 April

Australia vs France Women’s International - Following the

Women’s Championships, the highly-anticipated Women’s International will take place in the Hawkesbury Basin on Easter Sunday, 5 April. This is set to be a highlight of the season, so be sure to keep the date free for a match you won’t want to miss.

14-goal Morton CupThis tournament was originally held at Warwick Farm, from 1981 to 2000. Since then, it has moved to the Hawkesbury and runs across two exciting weeks, commencing 11 April, with Finals on Sunday 19th April, so mark your calendars for some exciting high-goal polo.

Round One of Motor Race Championship

ROUND One of the 2026 Motor Race Championships was held at Sydney Motorsport Park on Sunday, featuring Supersports, Clubmans, MX5 Cup, Excels and the Oztrack Super TT.

Competitors and fans were treated to a variety of weather conditions on the day, ranging from hot, dry conditions through to rain.

Round 1 of the 2026 Regulator Automation New South Wales Supersports Championship made history by being the first Motorsport Australia State Championship

competition to run on an MRA (Motor Racing Australia) promoted event, following MRA’s shift over to Motorsport Australia sanctioning.

Nick Kelly (Wolf Mistral) led in all three races to take out Class 2, whilst Zig Fuhrmeister (Radical SR3 XXR) led Class 1 with two wins and one second place, ahead of Mark Brame (Radical SR3) with a win, a second and a DNF, whilst Stephen Champion (Radical SR3 XXR) finished third in all three races and Shaun Hannah finished second in Race 1.

All results from the day can be found at: http://racing.natsoft.com.au/ results/#2