Western News 6 March 2026

Australian Army and Navy celebrate 125 years of service

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Australian Navy and Australian Army are commemorating 125 years of service, recognising the generations of sailors and soldiers who have served the nation with distinction.

This milestone celebrates the enduring values that define Australia’s service personnel and acknowledges the vital role both organisations continue to play in safeguarding Australia’s security, prosperity and national identity.

The Australian Navy and Australian Army formed on 1 March 1901, when the Australian colonial forces amalgamated following Federation. At the time, they were known as the

Commonwealth Naval Forces and Commonwealth Military Forces. Their current titles were officially granted in 1911 and 1980, respectively.

Since their establishment in 1901, Navy and Army have demonstrated exemplary service – protecting Australia’s borders, representing our national interests in peacetime, competition and war, and supporting communities at home in times of need whilst safeguarding Australia’s national security and regional prosperity.

This milestone recognises the generations of Australians who have answered the call to serve their nation – service made possible by the unwavering support of their families.

Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO, RAN said, “As we mark 125 years of our proud naval

history, this is an opportunity to honour the thousands of Australians who have chosen to serve. I extend my deepest gratitude to all who have served in our Navy for their commitment to protecting our national prosperity and regional security.

“For 125 years, sailors and soldiers from Australia’s Navy and Army have stood shoulder to shoulder serving our country, forming lasting bonds through shared sacrifice.”

Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, AO, DSC said, “For 125 years, the Australian Army has been a trusted national institution,

deeply connected to communities and committed to protecting Australia. I am incredibly proud of the work our soldiers do every day in the service of our nation. This milestone is about honouring the generations who have answered the call, and reaffirming our commitment to protect and support our communities today and into the future.

“In our 125th year, the Australian Navy and Australian Army will honour the past, present and future, recognising the rich history, enduring legacy and sacrifices of all who have served.”

Aqua Learn to Swim program hits enrolments milestone

BLACKTOWN Leisure Centre Stanhope is supporting about 5,000 learn-to-swim students, marking the highest enrolments level the centre has recorded in more than 5 years.

Across Council’s aquatic centres, enrolments currently sit at just over 7,000 students. Prior to the COVID pandemic restrictions, participation peaked at approximately 8,000 students across all centres, including 5,000 at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope.

The return to this level reflects strong demand across the community and the practical work involved in training and recruiting more swim teachers.

Aquatic facilities have had shortages of qualified swimming instructors in recent years, limiting the number of classes that could be delivered. In response, Blacktown City Council introduced a free in-house swim teacher training program to recruit and support new instructors, enabling more families to access learn-to-swim classes and

ensuring children can build essential water safety skills.

The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting, said the milestone was an important achievement for the community.

“Learning to swim is a critical life skill, and reaching 5,000 enrolments at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope reflects both strong participation and the dedication of our aquatic teams,” he said.

“Families understand the importance of water safety and confidence in the water.

“Council is proud to support programs that build those skills from early childhood through to adulthood.”

Data from the Royal Life Saving Society Australia has highlighted increasing pressure on public pools in fast-growing metropolitan communities, particularly in areas experiencing rapid population growth.

In Blacktown City, where population growth is significant and summer temperatures are often

higher than in many coastal parts of Sydney, access to affordable swimming lessons close to home becomes increasingly important.

With 5 public swimming centres serving a growing population of about 450,000 people across Blacktown City, enrolment numbers at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope reflect strong community commitment and the everyday reality of busy pools, full classes and sustained demand.

Upgrades for Mount Druitt Swimming Centre and Blacktown Aquatic Centre demonstrate the importance of planning aquatic infrastructure alongside growth, so children and adults can continue accessing lessons safely and close to home.

Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope’s Aqua Learn to Swim program forms part of Council’s broader commitment to water safety across its aquatic and leisure centres, supporting families at every stage of their swimming journey.

For more information, visit www.aqualearntoswim.com.au

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

LIFE for Australian women has transformed dramatically over the decades. Some of us have lived through that evolution, yet even we forget just how different things were until we are reminded.

The family roles and lives we lead today are quite a contrast to that of our parents.

For instance, my mother didn’t work for the first 15 years of my life, nor did she drive. With make up and hot rollers in her hair, she served up meat and three veg at precisely 6pm so it would be piping hot when Dad walked in the door.

By stark contrast, I work, I drive and my standard home-time dress code is pjamas and two inches of regrowth in my hair.

Greg and I share the cooking duties, and more often than not if it’s my turn we are getting Butter Chicken on Uber Eats.

It is hard to imagine, a world where women were not allowed to vote. And although we were leaders of sorts by being the second country to “allow” it (hello New Zealand #1) Aboriginal women weren’t allowed to until much later. On that note, Aboriginal men couldn’t either, but that’s another story for another day.

Women were once not allowed to open a bank account without their husband’s permission; they couldn’t take out loans or have access to their own savings.

My head hurts just typing this!

Far less women had jobs or an income, and prior to the contraceptive pill being introduced had little control of how their lives would unfold.

Did you know that ‘back in the day’ a female who enjoyed an alcoholic beverage would be sat in a “Ladies Lounge” at the pub because women were not allowed in the public bar?

My grandmother used to tell me about my grandfather courting her. Many of their “dates” consisted of her sitting in a tiny room of the pub knitting him a scarf, along with several other girlfriends doing the same, while the blokes they hoped to marry drank up a storm in the main bar.

Can you imagine!

Thank goodness those days are gone and International Women’s Day is a great time to reflect - because it is proof that change can and does happen..

Let’s hope we can harness some of the passion and drive that fuelled past progress. We need that same resolve to secure the changes still ahead; from stamping out domestic violence here in Australia to challenging the treatment of women in parts of the world where inequality remains entrenched.

ON International Women’s Day, Sunday, 8th March, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales will unveil a bronze plaque in Memory Park, Penrith, dedicated to women veterans who have served in war and peace.

The concept for a plaque dedicated to women veterans originated with a female veteran who noted the absence of recognition in many War Memorials.

Ms. Del Gaudry CSC approached the City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch for a grant, which was subsequently approved, making the concept a reality. The Vice President of the sub-Branch, Mr. John Fenton and the Executives of the Penrith sub-Branch have been very supportive of the service, assisting in many ways.

The Women Veterans of Western Sydney were delighted when the

NSW Governor agreed to unveil the plaque on International Women’s Day (IWD). Women veterans attend the regular catch ups from as far away as Lithgow, Wollondilly, Castle Hill and Bankstown. It is a wonderful way for women veterans to share stories and friendships across the three Services, and generations.

The findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide (RCDVS) found that exServing women were two and a half times more likely to die by suicide than the general population of women. Being recognised and connected is a way of demonstrating how we can all make a difference.

Location: Memory Park War Memorial, cnr Woodriff and High Streets, Penrith. Time: 10:00am. Dress: Uniform or business suit with Medals

For further details please contact Ms. Del Gaudry CSC, on 044 799 5487.

Record jump in bulk billing for Australians

THE Albanese Labor Government has released a statement stating that after their “historic investment, new data shows Australians can now access over 3,400 Medicare Bulk Billing Practices across the country.”

“The number continues to grow every week,” the statement read.

“Almost 1,300 of these practices were previously mixed billing. In Greenway, there are now 29 Medicare Bulk Billing Practices. Seven of these were previously mixed billing.

“In New South Wales the GP bulk billing rate is now 85.3 per cent. In just three months, the bulk billing rate for all Australians has jumped to 81.4 per cent nationwide.

“This is the largest quarterly jump in bulk billing in 20 years (outside of the COVID pandemic). For 16–64-year-olds, there has been a 6.9 percentage point increase in the bulk billing rate, the largest quarterly increase on record.

“Because of the Government’s delivery, approximately 96 per cent of Australians are now within a 20-minute drive of a registered Medicare Bulk Billing Practice. In October 2023, before the Albanese Government tripled the bulk billing incentive for GPs who bulk bill children under 16 and Commonwealth concession card holders, the bulk billing rate was 75.6 per cent.

“As a result of the 2023 changes, more than 9 in 10 visits for these patients are now bulk billed.

Australians can now find their closest Medicare Bulk Billing Practice at health.gov.au/bulk-billing.

This follows the Albanese Government’s historic $8.5 billion investment to strengthen Medicare. Since 1 November last year, bulk billing incentives are now paid to GPs for every patient they bulk bill and fully bulk billing practices also receive an additional payment.”

billing doctor right across the country including in Greenway.

More Australians are finding it easier to find a bulk billing doctor right across the country including in Greenway.

“Doctors and practices are moving back to bulk billing because it works for patients and it works for their practices.

“Bulk billing is the beating heart of Medicare and that’s what our Government is delivering.”

Attorney-General and Greenway MP Michelle Rowland said Labor is delivering more bulk billing right here in North West Sydney. a bulk

“Doctors and practices are moving back to bulk billing because it works for patients and it works for their practices,” Minister Rowland said.

“Bulk billing is the beating heart of Medicare and that’s what our Government is delivering.

“Our record investment to strengthen Medicare has already been a game changer, with more local practices switching to bulk billing since November 1 last year. “To get quality healthcare, all you should need is your Medicare card, not your credit card.”

A new challenge for Wianamatta Parkway road project

THE Wianamatta Road and Cochrane Street road constructions continue to provide an irritation to local residents and businesses in Ropes Crossing, Dunheved Business Park and Jordan Springs, with the final construction at the Jordan Springs entry still targeted for 2027.

In the interim, construction of the roundabout at Cochrane Street and Links Road in the Dunheved Business Park is surging ahead, with the

intersection likely to open in just a few months.

This presents an immediate dilemma for Penrith City Council and Blacktown City Council to resolve.

Once that roundabout is completed, traffic will travel quickly and efficiently between Ropes Crossing and Dunheved Business Park, vastly improving traffic flow for private and business vehicles and allowing many vehicles to avoid the ongoing congestion on Forrester Road, particularly at the Links Road / Forrester Road / Ropes Crossing Boulevard intersection.

However, a dilemma exists: Penrith

Council cannot consider opening the Cochrane Street roundabout until it receives advice from Blacktown Council regarding the access point in Ropes Crossing.

This particular entry point has previously opened on a few occasions but without through access to either Jordan Springs or Dunheved Business Park, the road quickly became a hot spot for illegal dumping.

A fully operational road between Ropes Crossing and Dunheved Business Park would provide the area with considerable traffic exposure, primarily during daylight hours.

The Nepean News contacted both Councils for comment.

A spokesperson for Penrith City Council said, “I’m still seeking an answer from the teams. They need to speak to their counterparts at Blacktown City Council, as the road in question is partly in their (Blacktown) LGA and partly in ours (Penrith). We need to ascertain their (Blacktown) intent, once the roundabout on our side of the boundary becomes operational in a few months’ time.”

We will advise readers when we receive advice from Blacktown City Council.

Blacktown City Family ActiveFest returns to Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton

BLACKTOWN City Council is continuing its commitment to helping residents be more active, more often, with the return of Blacktown City Family ActiveFest on Saturday 28 March at Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton.

Building on the success of Blacktown City Family SportsFest, ActiveFest has been designed to provide families with an afternoon of free and accessible opportunities to be active and connect with local sporting groups.

ActiveFest will run from 12 pm to 4 pm and feature a variety of family-friendly activities that encourage movement, play and participation, including a water slide, mini golf, interactive sporting stalls, face painting and a visit from Aqua Learn to Swim’s Pip the Penguin.

The Mayor of Blacktown City Brad Bunting said ActiveFest reflects Council’s focus on creating opportunities for people of all ages to stay active and connected.

“ActiveFest is about making it easy for families to be more active, more often,” Mayor Bunting said.

“It’s a chance for children and adults to try different activities, meet local sporting clubs and experience what Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton has to offer in a relaxed and welcoming environment.”

Local sporting groups from across Blacktown City will be on site to provide information, answer questions and help residents explore ways to stay active.

During ActiveFest, there will be free entry to the centre between 12 pm and 4 pm for visitors who collect a voucher from the Blacktown Key Venues stall in the stadium.

A special membership offer will also be available on the day, including 10 per cent off upfront memberships at Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton and no joining fee.

ActiveFest will also mark the first major community event since the installation of the new splash pad facility at Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton, made possible through funding from the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program, which is supporting improved community facilities across Blacktown City.

The community is encouraged to come along and enjoy a fun, inclusive afternoon that supports healthy and active lifestyles.

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

THIS April, whether you’re growing, shaping, colouring or styling your mullet, you’re helping put mental health front and centre.

A mullet turns heads, but its real power is the conversations it starts. Conversations that build understanding, compassion and support for Australians living with mental illness.

Mullets for Mental Health brings mates, families, workplaces and communities together to raise funds for world-leading mental health research at the Black Dog Institute, helping deliver education and digital support tools to the people who need them most.

Stand out from the crowd. Grow a mullet for mental health.

and

Shape. Grow. Let it flow.

your mullet off this April.

Farewell to Julie Cort - The Nurse who made a hospital feel like home

AFTER more than 40 years in nursing, former Mount Druitt Hospital Surgical Ward 2B Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) Julie Cort has said goodbye. Julie guided, taught, and supported generations of nurses.

Her nursing story began a long way from where she ended it.

In the late 1970s she trained as a hospital nurse at a time when nursing meant long shifts, tough conditions and learning everything the hard way.

She soon found herself in one of the most remote places imaginable — Cape York.

There were only two nurses, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service on the radio.

No backup. No shortcuts. Just courage, skill, and heart.

From there, Julie’s journey took her across some of Australia’s busiest hospitals.

She worked at Royal North Shore Hospital before joining Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals (BMDH), where she quickly became known not just for her expertise in orthopaedics, but for her calm voice, sharp knowledge, and genuine care for people.

In 2002, after a short time away,

Julie returned to Mount Druitt Hospital as NUM of Ward 2B.

For her, coming back wasn’t just a job move - it felt like coming home.

To me, Mount Druitt Hospital has the atmosphere and collegiality of a country hospital, but in the city. Everyone helps each other. Everyone says hello. It’s warm, comfortable, and safe, Julie said.

“

Over the years, Julie didn’t just manage a ward - she shaped it.

She mentored countless nurses, supported her team through the toughest shifts, and helped thousands of patients get back on their feet, literally and figuratively.

Her team became known for exceptional patient care, teamwork, and compassion - values she lived every day.

When it came time to say goodbye, even Julie who was known for her steady calm, struggled to hold back tears.

She thanked her colleagues, friends, and patients for shaping her journey, and shared simple advice that sums up her entire career.

“Just keep doing the best you can.”

Mount Druitt Hospital Acting Deputy Director of Nursing David Glastonbury described Julie’s legacy perfectly compassion, excellence, calmness - and a good sense of humour.

Now, instead of hospital corridors and ward rounds, Julie’s next adventure will be highways and horizons. She and her partner plan to travel around Australia in a caravan, with no plans to return home anytime soon.

Julie’s last day was in December 2025, but her impact will stay far longer - in the nurses she inspired, the patients she cared for, and the hospital that she helped make feel like a home.

Access to high potential and gifted education

EVERY public-school student in NSW can now access opportunities to pursue their talents and potential at their local school, with the ground-breaking Inspire program rolling out as part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to put high potential and gifted education (HPGE) offerings in every public school.

All public schools in NSW are now embedding HPGE in their teaching practices and co-curricular activities, with a range of new programs tailored to each school, such as enrichment streams, extension opportunities and STEM programs.

The fulfilment of the major policy commitment was announced by NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Prue Car at the SMH Schools Summit.

The Inspire program brings together all schools’ high potential and gifted offerings under one banner, shared on school websites, giving parents and carers easy access to information about the opportunities available at their local school.

Paired with an updated schoolfinder website, where schools are now proactively sharing their availability of places with local communities, parents can more easily plan their child’s schooling if they wish to

explore the option of a non-local school.

The rollout of the Inspire program is backed by targeted teacher professional development in gifted education which took place state-wide in 2025, to help ensure all students are challenged to achieve their full potential across academics, the arts, leadership and sport.

As part of its commitment, the Minns Labor Government is investing $100 million to develop state-of-theart learning facilities for students in 33 high schools selected as HPGE Partner Schools, eight of which completed upgrades for the start of the 2026 school year.

Under the Minns Labor Government’s Inspire program, new extension classes are being offered across comprehensive public high schools.

HPGE Extension Classes are now running in eight public high schools, with more schools to join the initiative next year. The schools were selected to address unmet demand for extension class offerings.

“This commitment to support students to reach their full potential is backed by a rebuilt teaching workforce, with vacancies dropping to a 12-year low following Labor’s historic wage rise and additional policies to reduce workload,” said

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car.

“We are determined to ensure our public schools are places of excellence, where all students can access opportunities to develop their talents and reach their full potential.

“The Inspire program ensures high potential and gifted students in NSW public schools are identified and their teachers are equipped to provide worldclass opportunities for these students to be challenged and pursue their talents.

“The Minns Labor Government is backing the roll-out of Inspire with our $100 million investment in infrastructure upgrades for 33 HPGE Partner Schools, with new extension classes also now in place in more public high schools.

“Importantly, teachers are receiving targeted training to deliver these opportunities in every school, something that can happen thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s wage reform which has seen vacancies shrink to a 12-year-low.

“Selective schools and opportunity classes are no longer the only public pathways for gifted students to pursue excellence. Parents, carers and the community will see high potential and gifted education in action in their local public schools.”

New Sydney Swans CEO kicks off 2026 season with first life-saving blood donation

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross Lifeblood and the Sydney Swans kicked off their 2026 partnership with a team donation day at Moore Park HQ, uniting again to inspire fans nationwide to donate blood and plasma.

This year’s season launch marks a special milestone, with newly appointed Sydney Swans CEO Matthew Pavlich making his first-ever blood donation, following senior coach Dean Cox’s first donation last year.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Lifeblood in 2026, and we’re looking forward to seeing our members and fans getting behind Lifeblood’s vital work again this season,” Pavlich said.

“Donating blood is a simple act that can help save lives, and I’m encouraging Swans fans to join me this season by booking a donation and becoming part of something meaningful.”

The partnership builds on the long-standing relationship between the Sydney Swans and Lifeblood, with the ‘Lifeblood of the Swans’ donor team formed in 2023, and a Lifeblood donor centre located inside the club’s Moore Park HQ. In that time, more than 24,000 collections have been made, saving over 73,000 lives.

Lifeblood CEO Stephen Cornelissen said the Swans have played a crucial role in sparking conversations about blood and plasma donation and encouraging people to take up the life-saving habit from the age of 18.

“Teamwork is just as important in blood donation as it is in sport, with 36 per cent of blood donations each year made as part of a Lifeblood team,” he said.

“With more than 110,000 new donors needed this year to meet increasing demand for donated blood and plasma, now is the perfect time to make an impact and be part of a life-saving community.

“Whether or not you’re part of a team like the ‘Lifeblood of the Swans’, every donation makes a life-saving difference to people who rely on donated blood in their lifetime – which is one in three Australians.”

More than 1.7 million donations are needed every year to meet the growing demand for blood and plasma products, so Lifeblood depends on thousands of donors every week to support patients across Australia.

“Every donation can help up to three people –from cancer patients to those involved in trauma, undergoing surgery, or living with immune conditions,” added Stephen.

Fans are encouraged to join the official Sydney Swans Lifeblood Team ‘Lifeblood of the Swans’ via the Lifeblood website and donate at least once throughout the AFL season. Whether at Lifeblood Moore Park Donor Centre inside Sydney Swans HQ or any Lifeblood centre nationwide, every donation counts.

To book your donation, call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the Lifeblood app.

Construction underway on Rouse Hill Hospital

THE Minns Labor Government, in partnership with the Albanese Government, is delivering the new public hospital which will provide world class, comprehensive, integrated health care to the growing region of north west Sydney now and into the future.

Located on the corner of Commercial and Windsor roads, close to the Rouse Hill Metro Station and Rouse Hill Town Centre, the new hospital is located at the heart of the community.

This week, construction is underway providing certainty to local families that the project is finally being delivered.

The new Rouse Hill Hospital, to be delivered by the Minns Labor Government, will include:

• an emergency department

• comprehensive birthing services including birthing rooms and a maternity inpatient unit

• inpatient beds and day surgery services

• short stay medical assessment services

• pathology, pharmacy and medical imaging services

• outpatient and ambulatory care services including paediatrics and renal dialysis

• virtual care and hospital in the home services

• prehabilitation, rehabilitation and lifestyle medicine.

The State Significant Development Application for main works construction was recently placed on exhibition and submissions are currently being assessed. This next stage of work is expected to begin this year, following formal planning approval.

The Rouse Hill Hospital forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to end Western Sydney’s infrastructure drought, delivering infrastructure and the essential services growing communities need, all at once.

The Minns Government’s 2025-26 NSW Budget included $3.4 billion of funding to support the delivery of health facilities and services across

Western Sydney including:

• an additional $700 million for the new Bankstown Hospital, increasing the total investment to $2 billion

• $120 million for additional beds for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals

Other projects in the Western Sydney region include upgrades at Nepean, Liverpool, Canterbury, Fairfield, Camden and Campbelltown hospitals, and the new Integrated Mental Health Complex at Westmead.

Lendlease has been engaged as the ECI contractor for Rouse Hill Hospital, following a competitive tender process.

For more information on the Rouse Hill Hospital project, visit: http://nsw.gov.au/rouse-hill-hospital

“For years, people in Rouse Hill and the north-west were told a hospital was coming. Today, construction is underway, and that gives this community the certainty it deserves,” Premier Chris Minns said.

“But this isn’t just about one hospital, it’s part of a much bigger shift in how we invest in Western Sydney.

“Communities here have grown fast, but without the hospitals, schools and essential services to match. We’re changing that by building the infrastructure communities were promised and delivering it properly.

“When we say we are going to do something we follow through, and Rouse Hill Hospital will transform the delivery of healthcare in one of the fastest growing regions in the country.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said every family in our community deserves access to world-class health care close to where they live.

“That is why we are delivering Rouse Hill hospital with the services they have been asking for,” Ms Car said.

“For 12 years the residents of North-West Sydney were neglected and ignored by the former Liberal National government who failed to deliver even the basic services for our community.

“Labor is building a better NSW, and together with our $1.5 billion investment in new and upgraded schools in North-West Sydney, we’re delivering infrastructure that puts Western Sydney communities first.”

“Today, we begin to rectify one of the single largest Liberal healthcare failures in our state’s history,” Minister for Health Ryan Park added.

“Because of the Liberals’ broken promises, Western Sydney has had an entire hospital missing for almost a decade.

“The Minns Labor Government will deliver Rouse Hill Hospital – and we will deliver it with an ED; with birthing suites; and we will protect it from Liberal privatisation.”

Federal Attorney General and Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland said the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are working together to provide world-class health services right here in North-West Sydney.

“I’m proud to have fought alongside the community to ensure this hospital opens with an emergency department, and full maternity services backed by $120 million in funding from the Albanese Government,” Ms Rowland said.

Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby said it is a huge moment for our community.

“People here have backed this hospital for years, and now we can finally see it becoming a reality,” Mr Kirby said.

“This is something our community has fought hard for.

“It means mums don’t have to travel across Sydney to give birth, and families can get emergency care close to where they live.”

Vegas! You wonderful beast!

AROUND mid December

I got a call from a bloke named Ryan Alexander from Premium Sports Events in Melbourne. Ryan was calling to see if I’d like to replace Darryl Brohman as ‘tour host’ for 90 people for the NRL in Las Vegas.

Darryl had recently been diagnosed with cancer and had to obviously pull the pin on traveling to Vegas in late February. I told Ryan to let me sleep on it. I spoke to my wife Meags about the offer and I told her that “I’ll go as long as you can come with me.” She said, “wow, do you think they’ll go with that?” I said I can ask. Ryan said, “no problem, I’ll book your flights.”

So off I went to the post office to renew my passport. We left Sydney at 2pm on Monday the 23rd of Feb and arrived at 5pm the same day in Las Vegas! I kept a little diary of my week in sin city and this is how it played out.

Monday - Arrived at the Luxor hotel just after 5pm.

Put our bags in our room and met the tour group. Great bunch of people who came from all parts of Australia. Had 4 or 5 Budweiser beers. Bed at 9pm, slept for 12 hours (for the first time I think ever) woke at 9am.

Tuesday - Grabbed brekky at Starbucks in our hotel and walked 2km over to Allegiant stadium. First glimpse you are just blown away by the sheer size of it. Elegantly monstrous is how I’d describe it. Walked back to the hotel to get ready for a night with the touring party at a reception centre at the Mandalay Bay Hotel which is next door to the Luxor. Had a 40 minute chat to the group about all things footy. Meags entertained the ladies of the tour, especially two couples from Alice Springs, one of which were Senator Jacinta Nampijimpa Price’s next door neighbours! More drinks with the crew then into bed around 11pm.

Wednesday - We headed down to Resorts World where most of the NRL teams and media were staying. We were blown away by all the NRL jerseys we saw along the way. Rugby League had definitely taken over Vegas! Recorded a new podcast with Mark Levy and Mark Riddell called Mark My Words! Got a cab home and got dressed to go to one of the most exclusive (and expensive) restaurants in Vegas, Lago at the Bellagio. Famous for its stunning views while eating and watching the fountains of Bellagio. For the 4 of us that went it cost us $1000 US! Great Italian feed, and honestly worth every cent.

Back to the hotel where our touring group had their own meeting place/ bar. Bed 1am.

Thursday - Set off for our 1 hour tour of Allegiant Stadium at 10:30 with the group. All I can say is WOOOOW! Everywhere you look at this state of the art stadium is just classy. It’s by far the best stadium I’ve ever been in. Finished in 2020 it’s the ‘creme da La creme’ of sports stadiums. From chillers in every seat for your drinks to a main dressing room that’s bigger than my house. So impressive. There is even a nightclub in the bloody thing that is active while the game is on. Amazing!

We dropped into Gordon Ramsay’s burger joint then to the bar to meet up with the group. Groundhog Day! Bed just after midnight.

Friday - quiet day. Meags went for a facial in the hotel while I went to hook up with the 2GB boys to do our Saturday show from Resorts World. 1-6pm Sydney time 5-11pm Vegas time. Back to the hotel around midnight, few night caps, bed at 2:30am. Ouch!

Saturday - game day! Walking to the stadium and seeing all the different jerseys and different chants was mesmerising. Was hard to believe that here we were in Las Vegas about

to watch the NRL! What an amazing spectacle we all witnessed. Back to the hotel where there was a sea of activity and also a sea of jerseys from the 6 teams who were being represented. Bed 3:30am another OUCH!

As I write this, it’s 7:30pm Vegas time. We leave tomorrow (Tuesday here) at midday via Dallas and get back into Sydney around midday on Thursday. What a time warp. But honestly, one of the best experiences of my life. So cool to be part of something so unique and amazing!

Here’s to Vegas in 2027!! My liver permitting hahahaha

Over 100 short-term closure orders issued to illegal tobacconists

NSW Health Inspectors have now issued 105 short-term closure orders since new laws strengthening tobacco and vaping control efforts came into effect in November 2025.

This news comes ahead of a further increase to the federal tobacco excise, driving concerns this will push more people to illicit market tobacco as the cost disparity between illegal and legal tobacco continues to grow.

Under the November 2025 laws, NSW Health supported by NSW Police make short-term closure orders of up to 90 days for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco without a licence.

In the past 10 days, 30 more stores

across the state, including in the Nepean and Blue Mountains areas have been shut down immediately for 90 days.

NSW Health inspectors seized approximately 700,000 illicit cigarettes and 3,900 illicit vapes while implementing the Closure Order at these 30 premises.

Further investigations will follow and additional enforcement action, including prosecution, may take place.

In mid-February, NSW Health took action to close a tobacco retailer in Rutherford for the second time after it was found to be in breach of a 90-day closure order for selling illicit tobacco and vapes.

A NSW Local Court can issue a long-term closure order of up to one year if it is satisfied that illicit tobacco or illegal vaping goods have been or are likely to be sold, or if tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products are sold or are likely to be sold without a licence.

The long-term closure orders are part of the NSW Government’s tough new laws to disrupt the supply of illicit tobacco and vaping goods across the state.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park said the recent closures should serve as a reminder for those people in the community who are doing the wrong thing that we are serious and they will be prosecuted.

“Now with the boost to the numbers of Inspectors on the ground, our work to disrupt the supply of these products is only going to ramp up to continuing protect public health across NSW,” Mr Park said.

“Our Inspectors actively monitor retailers, and if we find that you are continuing to sell these illicit products after being served a closure order, we will shut you down again and you will face further penalties.

“Despite the increase in the federal tobacco excise this week potentially bolstering the illicit market, we’re getting on with the job of cleaning up our communities and suburbs, doing our part to crack down on illicit tobacco.”

Colyton Public School

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District

Historical Society Inc.

THIS school is located on the Great Western Highway at Mt Druitt beginning in 1861 in Simpson Hill Road. In 1864 the school was transferred to another building and in 1883 the location of the school was moved to its present site. In 1900 the school received a new Principal named John Aston (Jnr). John was born at Bilston, Staffordshire in England in 1862. He married Jane Elizabeth Gutteridge in 1884 in Yorkshire and together with Ann Aston John’s mother they came to Australia on the “Abergeldie” arriving in Sydney where he entered the Department of Education and started to teach at Cobbora and a few years later at Coolah. Next posting was Ourimbah and his last was as Principal of Colyton Public School. In April 1894 Mr S. E. Lees officially opened a library in connection with the Colyton Public School. Those present included eighty or ninety scholars, Reverend A. C. Corlette, John King Lethbridge and a number of parents and friends of the scholars. Short addresses were given by Mr Lees, Reverend Corlette and Mr Lethbridge, each referring to the benefits to be derived from reading good and useful books and congratulating the scholars and Mr Miller the teacher for possessing such a splendid collection. Colyton being the first public school to establish a library in the Nepean District. There were some forty or fifty good useful books with the promise of Mr Miller for many more. In 1907 at the Rooty Hill School of Arts, John was presented with a handsome silver inkstand and pen and a razor strop by the residents of the district with the presentation made by James Angus. John was a talented painter who painted a portrait of a resident Mr L H Witts that he entered in the Archibald prize in 1938 but was unsuccessful, the winner being Nora Heysen the daughter of Sir Hans and Lady Selma Heysen. She was the youngest person to be awarded the Archibald Prize. John was also an inventor and built the first X-ray machine in the district that Dr Day used in his surgery on the highway in St Marys. He also developed his own photos in his dark room and had a “magic lantern” that entertained the local children with his glass slides. He dabbled with innovations using electricity and he made a machine to test local children’s reactions. In July 1908 Diphtheria reared its ugly head and a meeting of the Blacktown Shire Council saw several cases of diphtheria among the children attending the school and considered a recommendation that the school to be thoroughly disinfected and whitewashed. Also, in December that year, Collet Baker the son of Thomas Baker of Wentworthville met with a serious accident on the Western Road near the school when he was found lying unconscious by Miss Aston, daughter of John and taken to the Aston family home where everything possible was done for him. The doctor sent for and because of the serious nature of his condition, the doctor paid two home visits during the early hours of the morning. Messrs H Aston and W Page rode on their bicycles to Wentworthville to inform his parents of the accident. They were also informed his father was only three miles from St Marys with some cattle and this is where his son was riding to at the time he met with his accident. John and Mac Learmonth drove

to find his father who was staying for the night with his brother, and while he was proceeding towards Colyton, Thomas Baker’s horse fell but he escaped with only slight injuries. Mrs and Miss Aston and Mac Learmonth remained with Collet through the night where he recovered consciousness during the following day and was deemed fit to travel so he was moved to his parents’ residence where their Dr Bowman was waiting for him. It was said that he was progressing “very favourably”. In May 1909 a wellattended meeting of residents was held at the school for the purpose of forming a Committee to carry out celebrations in connection with Empire Day. Mr George Innes presided, and among those present were Mesdames Fuller and Davis, Misses Emmert, Page, Frost, Innes, Messrs T Dixon (secretary), John Aston, J Lix, J E Dodds, C Davison, J J Methven, J Dunne, H Talbot, W Adamson, R Methven and W Evans. It being resolved that these members should form the Committee. On the day patriotic songs were sung and exhibitions of physical exercises under the direction of Headmaster John. Patriotic addresses were delivered by several speakers. At eleven o’clock the children were marched to the flagpole where the union jack was hoisted and everyone singing “God Save the King” then the children marched to the picnic grounds for refreshments after which sporting games continued. In May 1913 the Centenary Celebrations for the crossing of the Blue Mountains proposed a chain of bonfires linked from the Canoblas at Orange to Prospect Hill and the proposal was being considered favourably by the head teachers and pupils of schools and had been asked to co-operate, and in reply to the first batch of requests were Mount Druitt and Colyton public schools who would be about the last link in the chain having signified their intention to set their end of the chain going. John retired from the school in 1925 and it was common in those days that an “illuminated address” was presented at the retirement of prominent people. In John’s case a group of citizens from the district arranged the address, together with a wallet of bank notes. This address is currently held by his granddaughter Mrs Betty Trist. The signatories on the address are - John Angus, W H Cruse, T Dixon, James Dunne, E Fuller, V Wainwright, G. Turner, J. Methven, R Methven, K Smith, J Smith and W Wallace. John attended St Mary Magdalene church and used shorthand to record the sermons so that he could study them at his leisure. John moved from the school residence on the Highway at Colyton with his wife Jane and their three children Harold, Nance and Nell to “Kimberworth” in Melbourne Street, Colyton/St Marys. The two-story home on Ropes Creek had a studio for his painting and photography interests where he painted the portraits of many local citizens for their family records. He died in St Marys in 1953 aged 91 years.

I wish to thank David and Betty Trist (Nee Cobcroft) for their generous loan of the family history from where most of this history page information comes from. Copy of Self Portrait by John Aston courtesy of the family.

Sources: Blacktown Memories website, Sydney Morning Herald, Evening News, Nepean Times, Lithgow Mercury.

IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…

THome Loans in the Age of AI: Why Your Broker’s ‘Actual Intelligence’ Still Wins

HE buzz around Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere, and the home loan industry is no exception. We have all seen the headlines promising instant approvals and effortless applications. While this new technology offers fantastic tools for speed and efficiency, it is vital for homeowners in Australia to know that when it comes to securing your family’s biggest asset, Actual Intelligence (AI)—the human kind—is what truly matters.

The Power of the AI Tool

Artificial Intelligence is currently providing various levels of assistance to your mortgage broker, but it is not a replacement. At its best, AI is a relentless administrator. It can streamline the application process, reduce approval time, and help with initial credit assessments. Think of it as a superfast digital filing clerk:

• Speed: AI handles the tedious task of sorting through thousands of data points and compiling standard forms quickly and accurately. This removes the administrative burden, freeing up your broker’s time to focus on you.

• Efficiency: From digital document collection to e-signatures, AI-driven tools transform the mechanics of the process, making it significantly less of a hassle.

For us at Wealthwiz, AI is an opportunity to

enhance our efficiency so we can spend more time on what counts: your financial goals and your peace of mind.

Actual Intelligence: The Human Core

Here is the critical difference: AI can process data, but it cannot understand context, empathy, or the nuances of negotiation. Every deal has a story— whether it is a family getting their kids into the property market, a local business owner buying their own premises, or an investor taking the next step toward financial freedom.

This is where a broker’s Actual Intelligence takes over:

• Solving Complex Problems: AI algorithms tend to be risk-averse, often resulting in conservative valuations and loan products that require a lower Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR). They can also be unintentionally biased against certain groups, such as the self-employed or those with unique income structures. A human broker knows which lender will look beyond the simple data to see your true financial picture.

• Empathy and Trust: The journey of a home loan rarely runs perfectly smoothly. In those moments, you need a human on your side who provides the persistence and empathy needed to get the right outcome for your specific needs. The true competitive edge is the trust and personalised advice.

Your broker provides the persistence and empathy needed to navigate the complex world of home loans and get the right outcome for your specific needs.

• Strategic Knowledge: Years of experience allow a broker to compare different loan products, negotiate with lenders, and adapt to changing situations—like a fluctuating market or shifting family needs—in ways an algorithm cannot.

The Smartest Move is a Human Connection

The future of home loans is not AI or a broker; it is AI as a tool in the hands of an experienced broker.

Technology gives us efficiency, but a skilled, accredited finance broker provides the freedom of choice and personal service that empowers you. They understand that a home loan isn’t just a transaction; it’s a foundation for your life.

For guidance tailored to your financial situation and objectives, contact Alex at Wealthwiz—an MFAA accredited finance broker—on 0419 600 177.

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 tax 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.

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 8 A gesture of farewell (4) 9 An ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure (5) 10 Shaft on which a wheel rotates (4)

11 Scream (6)

12 Type of synthetic rubber (8)

13 Designates beforehand (8)

15 Pierce on a stake (6)

17 Controversial (7)

19 Genius (slang) (7)

22 Gaelic (6) 24 Encouraged (8)

26 Force (8)

28 Degree or boundary (6)

30 Satisfy (4)

31 Made a mistake (5)

32 No (slang) (4)

Solemn promise (4)

Diverges (8) 3 Sleeveless jacket (6) 4 Pertaining to the most populous country (7) 5 Firing a projectile (8) 6 Persian governor (6)

7 Scheme (4)

14 Strange or spooky (5)

16 Rental agreement (5)

18 Encompasses (8)

20 Lifting (8)

21 Pistol (7)

23 Preferences (6)

25 Quick (6)

27 The back end (4)

29 Small sharp bites (4)

Savannah Webb finishes third in Silver Cup

BY NOEL ROWSELL

SAVANNAH Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished in third place in the 2026 NextGEN Silver Cup, held at New South Wales GC over 23-24th February.

Savannah shot rounds of 86, 74 and 81 to finish at +25, 17 shots behind runaway winner Zoe Arcus (Cromer GC) and three shots behind secondplaced Constance Wang (Avondale GC).

Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC) dominated the 2026 NextGEN NSW Cup, shooting rounds of 68, 70 and 67 (-11) to finish five shots ahead of Jye Halls (NSW GC).

Chayse Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC) also made the 36-hole cut, shooting rounds of 81, 77, and 77 to finish in 26th spot.

Rounds Four and Five of Men’s Major Pennant were held over the past two weekends. ROUND FOUR: Lynwood lost 6.5-0.5 to St Michael’s, Stonecutters Ridge won 4-3 over Bonnie Doon, Fox Hills lost 4-3 to Muirfield, Richmond lost 5-2 to Bankstown, Dunheved won 6-1 over Springwood. ROUND FIVE: Concord won 7-0 over Lynwood, Stonecutters 5.5-1.5 over Moore Park, Bankstown lost 4-3 to Fox Hills, Muirfield won 5-2 over Richmond, Bayview won 4.5-2.5 over Dunheved.

Women’s Major Pennant. ROUND THREE: Stonecutters Ridge drew 3.5-3.5 with New South Wales GC. ROUND FOUR: Stonecutters Ridge - Bye.

Farnsworth and Nahlous on the podium at Phillip Island

BY NOEL ROWSELL Sydney!!”

ROUND One of the 2026 Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK), was held at Phillip Island (VIC) over 19-22nd February.

JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) finished 6th, 10th and 2nd respectively in the three Superbike races, saving his absolute best for a fabulous ride in the final race of the weekend.

“Sign me up for more days like this,” JJ said. “Absolutely stoked to have taken my first ASBK - Australian Superbikes podium for the season today (Sunday). Simone must have had a premonition!

“The team worked really hard all weekend to resolve a couple of little issues we had at the start and I’m so happy to have been able to deliver this result for them in Race 3. Can’t wait for

JJ finished ranked 5th for both the Round and the Series, whilst Jack Favelle (Cattai) had race results of 10th, 10th and 8th to finish 9th for the Round and 10th for the Series (on a countback).

Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) had mechanical issues prior to Race One of Supersports and did not start, but showed his great form in the recent St George Motorcycle Club meeting wasn’t a fluke, recording a 2nd in Race Two (just 1.329 sec back), then dominating Race Three for his first race win of the season.

“All the highs and lows of racing in one day,” Jake said. “A mechanical failure on the warm up lap of Race 1 saw me side lined. My amazing team got my spare bike up and running for Race 2, where I finished 2nd in Class and was battling with the next gen bikes.

“Sunday’s done right! First ASBK -

Australian Superbikes Supersport race victory of the year. What a weekend. Thank you to my team for their fantastic work and to my amazing sponsors!”

Despite only running in two of the three races, Jake still finished highly ranked in 5th for both the Round and the Series.

Zac Russo (Sackville North) and Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) both raced in the Supersport 300 category. Zac had finishes of 18th, 19th and 13th to finish ranked 16th for both the Round and the Series, whilst Adam finished 28th, 29th and 27th and is currently ranked outside the Top 25.

Australian Women’s Polo team announced to play France

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Australian Polo Federation has announced the Australian Women’s Team selected to play against France in the International Match at Arunga Polo Club on Sunday 5 April.

Ashley Glennie – 4 Goals (Timor Polo Club, NSW), Anna Dowling – 4 Goals (Muddy Flats Polo Club, NSW), Phillipa FitzHenry – 4 Goals (Downs Polo Club, QLD), Indiana Bennetto (c) – 5 Goals (South East Queensland Polo Club, QLD), Reserve: Piper Trickett – 2 Goals (Windsor Polo Club, NSW), Team Coach: Aiden Nunn (South East Queensland Polo Club, QLD), Team Manager: Katie Edmeades (Windsor Polo Club, NSW).