WesternNews_26June2026

The Living Hub offers connection for people living with disability

PEOPLE living with dementia and hidden disabilities have a new place to find comfort and connection at The Living Hub at Max Webber Library, Blacktown.

The community space offers people and their carers a place to stimulate their minds and share their experiences in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Blacktown City Libraries worked with Dementia Australia to design The Living Hub sensitively and include items that may help prompt conversation and memories.

Examples are memory boxes of assorted objects, robotic therapy animals, reminiscence objects and a table of interactive games designed to stimulate the senses.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said The Living Hub was a response to community need.

“People living with hidden disabilities have been asking Council for a dedicated space where they can meet and be supported,” he said.

“The Living Hub provides that supportive space while keeping participants in the inclusive community atmosphere of the library.

“By welcoming people with hidden disabilities to our libraries, I hope we can raise awareness of dementia and other disabilities among our wider community.”

Dementia Australia Chief Executive Officer

Professor Tanya Buchanan said it’s important to create dementia-friendly spaces like the Living Hub, which are respectful, supportive and empowering.

“Bringing people together in a dementia-friendly space is important for reducing the risk of social isolation. It also creates opportunities for family members and carers to meet and share their experiences,” Prof Buchanan said.

“Congratulations to Blacktown City Council for opening The Living Hub and supporting people impacted by dementia.”

The Living Hub has regular walking and social groups to keep minds and bodies active, and there are plans for art and music therapy.

Blacktown City Libraries plans to offer programs like these across its branch network.

Anglicare is among those using the service for its clients.

Dementia Advisory Services Team Leader Vanessa Keane has been pleased with the outcomes.

“The Living Hub is a versatile, inclusive and low-stimulus space supporting a wide range of interactive uses,” she said.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to

utilise this new community space for our Dementia Advisory support groups.”

The Living Hub was made possible thanks to a Public Library Infrastructure Grant from the State Library of NSW.

Library staff also received training from Dementia Australia on better understanding the challenges of people living with the condition.

The Living Hub is part of the Blacktown City Disability Inclusion Action Plan, which commits Council to ensuring people have equal access to community services regardless of ability and background.

For dementia information and support, contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au

School holiday fun is back with Kidz Blitz!

GET ready for action-packed days full of fun, creativity and exciting activities these school holidays!

This July, kids can enjoy:

• special visits from some amazing animal friends

• our exciting Kidz Blitz Colour Run

• hands-on fun making delicious treats

• plus plenty more activities to keep everyone entertained!

Spots fill fast, so don’t miss out!

• Monday 6 July – Friday 17 July

To book now, visit https://shorturl. at/RvVag

Students’ bright ideas could help cool our suburbs

ASUSTAINABLE bus shelter

using solar energy to power services for commuters has been one of many inventive concepts produced by students at the Blacktown Big Ideas – Environment Challenge.

More than 170 high school students from schools across Blacktown City devised solutions to curb the effect of urban heat as part of the Blacktown City Council program at Bowman Hall this month.

University experts explained how sustainable design can limit heat effects, before students worked in teams and devised solutions.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting spoke to students about the need for innovative ideas to combat the increasing challenge of urban heat.

“Our young people will be the next generation of home owners in Blacktown City and directly affected by urban heat,” he said.

“But the bright ideas and enthusiasm I saw among the students gives me hope that we can create a cooler, sustainable future for our community.”

The solar powered bus shelter idea most impressed judges and was devised by four students from St John Paul II Catholic College.

In their pitch, the team outlined how a solar powered shelter could provide

services to waiting commuters, have plants and greenery for shade, and collect rainwater.

Teams at the Challenge used Lego to model solutions, sketched on paper, and drafted designs on laptops.

Finalists took to the stage and pitched their ideas to judges.

Students from the following schools participated: Blacktown Boys High School, Chifley College Bidwill Campus, Doonside Technology High School, Nagle College, St John XXIII Catholic College, St John Paul II Catholic College and Tyndale Christian School.

This was the fourth year of the Blacktown Big Ideas – Environment Challenge.

Council and education group Future Anything ran the event to foster awareness, understanding and innovative thinking about climate change and urban design among young people.

Council is playing its part in curbing the impact of urban heat through a number of forward-thinking programs.

This includes its award-winning multi-disciplinary study ‘The Risk of Not Planting Trees Along our Streets’, increased tree planting and use of canopy for shade, and advocating for lighter coloured roofs to reflect heat.

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

EOFY is here and as we wrap up our taxes for the financial year, here’s something to think about: if you can afford to, make a donation before June 30.

At just four years old, Izzy was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, a moment that turned her world upside down. Childhood play was abruptly replaced with hospital stays, painful treatments, and time away from her baby sister, Maisie. The joy of being a kid faded into feelings of isolation, as her family put everything on hold to support her through this challenging journey

In the midst of this turmoil, Captain Starlight brought something powerful: joy. Through dance parties and spontaneous birthday surprises, they infused Izzy’s days with laughter and joy, helping her reconnect with the carefree spirit of childhood.

“Fun and happiness have a very big impact… it made her hardest days easier,” said her mother, Kim. With the presence of Captain Starlight, Izzy found moments to look forward to, transforming her hospital experience into something a little brighter.

As tax time approaches, you can play a part in creating similar joyful moments for seriously ill children. Your taxdeductible donation before June 30 can help bring happiness when it’s needed most. Together, we can light up the lives of children like Izzy, ensuring they have the fun and joy they deserve during their toughest times.

Make a difference today: Support Captain Starlightvisit https://starlight.au

The return of the Hydro Express

BACK by popular demand, Transport Heritage NSW will run the popular Hydro Express from Central to Katoomba / Medlow Bath on both Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June.

Passengers will be able to join the train at Central (10:00am), Strathfield (10:12am), Westmead (10:30am) and Penrith (10:59am), travelling on the premium heritage rail day trips to enjoy a high tea experience at the Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath, or free time in Katoomba.

Unlike 2023, when two steam locomotives led the way, this time two vintage diesel locomotives will lead the train up the mountain.

Trainspotters will undoubtedly be at prime viewing locations as the Hydro Express travels through Western Sydney and the lower Blue Mountains on both days.

The return journey will see the Hydro Express arrive in Penrith at approximately 5:00pm and Westmead approximately 5:30 each day. Tickets were expected to sell out well in advance of the weekend.

State Budget’s focus is on “building a better NSW”

THE 2026-27 NSW Budget delivers costof-living relief now, whilst continuing to rebuild the essential services and economic strength NSW relies on.

Households are under severe pressure. Mortgages, rent, groceries and fuel costs are a constant challenge. This Budget is built on a simple principle: relief for today, reform for tomorrow. And discipline, always.

Three years of spending restraint have steadily brought the budget back towards balance. That work is what makes it possible to help families today – without privatisation and without an unfair wages cap.

Cost-of-living relief

Relief in this Budget is practical and immediate. At its core is a 12-month, $561.4 million Transport Affordability Package. This includes:

• $100 off private vehicle registration, worth $435.1 million across 4.4 million vehicles, with an $80 cut for motorcycles.

• Lowering the weekly toll cap from $60 to $50 for 2026-27, providing even more support for regular toll users.

• Opal fares held at 2025 prices for a year, for around 400,000 daily users.

On top of that:

• Toll administration fees will be scrapped from July. This will save at least $10 a notice, ending a charge that was in some cases twice the toll itself and cost motorists $60 million last year.

• $557.1 million for the Home Energy Saver program, providing interest-free loans and discounts.

• A $1,000 cost-of-living payment for more than 120,000 NSW Government employees, triggered because Sydney CPI growth exceeded 4 per cent between the March quarters of 2025 and 2026.

• A further 30,000 first home buyers are expected to benefit from the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme in 2026-27, with the average amount of assistance $20,400 each. This is on top of the 94,000 first home buyers helped since 1 July 2023. Rebuilding essential services

Health is the largest single commitment in this Budget. A historic $10.3 billion increase in

health funding over four years, delivered with the Australian Government, will recruit 9,000 more health workers and fund around 2,900 more planned surgeries a year.

“The Budget also delivers $11.9 billion for health infrastructure over four years, including funding 32 new and upgraded hospitals and 2,500 more beds and treatment spaces,” Treasurer Dail Mookhey said.

“Nurses and midwives received a record pay increase, the largest increase for registered nurses in more than twenty years, and the largest ever for enrolled nurses, backed by an additional $2.9 billion in this Budget to support the higher wages and improved conditions.

“The Government is also investing $470.1 million over 10 years to enhance emergency response and better protect communities by transferring the state’s rural firefighting fleet from councils to the NSW Rural Fire Service.”

Securing our future

The Budget backs the infrastructure, schools and skills the state needs for its future prosperity:

• $116.7 billion in infrastructure over four years, exceeding $30 billion in 2026-27, equating to expenditure of around $82.7 million a day.

• $9.2 billion for more than 260 new and upgraded schools, with more than a quarter in regional NSW.

• The NSW Government will invest $6.5 billion over 10 years for thousands of new electric buses and electric supported bus depots to reduce our reliance on foreign fuels, meet the needs of the growing community and underpin a revival of domestic bus manufacturing.

• $3.4 billion for skills and TAFE, including $233.2 million to upgrade TAFE campuses.

• $5.2 billion to build the water infrastructure that supports new housing across Western Sydney.

• $3.5 billion in additional funding for transport infrastructure and roads in Western Sydney.

The Budget result

“This year’s result reflects the global conditions facing NSW. Against a backdrop of higher fuel prices and ongoing uncertainty, a deficit of $2.3 billion is projected for 2026-27,” Mr Mookhey said.

“Despite this, support for households continues, as does investment in essential services.

“The Government has been able to provide this support because of the responsible decisions taken over the past three years to strengthen the state’s finances. We have put the Budget in a much stronger position by bringing spending growth under control.

“The former government recorded a $15.3 billion COVID-19 deficit in 2021-22 and a $10.6 billion post-COVID splurge in 2022-23.

“This Government brought expense growth down to 1.8 per cent last year and will hold it to an average of 2.7 per cent over the next four.

“The 2025-26 deficit has come in at $3.0 billion – a $102 million improvement on the 2025-26 HalfYearly Review, and around $400 million better than forecast at last year’s Budget.

“After the $2.3 billion deficit in 2026-27, the Budget then returns to a $1.1 billion surplus in 202728, the first since 2018-19.

It continues with surpluses of $1.8 billion and $1.9 billion in the two years after that.

Debt under control

“Gross debt will be $178.5 billion by June 2026, almost $10 billion below the $188.2 billion the state was on track for under the previous government. Lower debt saves around $400 million a year in interest: money for essential workers and services, not lenders.

“Real wages are growing again since March 2023, after falling over the previous government’s 12 years of wage caps.

“There is more work to do. But NSW is back on track, and this Budget keeps building a state working Australians can afford: relief for today, reform for tomorrow, discipline always – supporting families, securing our future.”

Independent regulator turning up the heat

TOUGHER new laws and a stronger regulator are helping improve child safety, lift standards and restore confidence in the early learning sector, according to the Minns Labor Government.

“Since the NSW Parliament passed nation-leading reforms last October and established the independent Early Learning Commission on 1 December 2025, new data shows the reforms are driving stronger compliance and enforcement across the sector,” a state government statement read.

Statistics for the period since the Commission was established show significant increases in monitoring visits, compliance actions, and suspensions compared to the same time last year.

This includes:

• Visits by Early Learning Commission officers increasing by 10 per cent to 4,837 services, of which

69 per cent were unannounced;

• Emergency action notices increasing by 233 per cent to 80;

• The number of providers cancelled increasing by more than 1000 per cent to 217.

The tougher regulatory environment is also driving poor-quality operators out of the sector at unprecedented rates, the government claims.

“During this period, the number of

applications by approved providers transferring their service approval increased by 141 per cent, with 70 services in NSW applying to transfer to a new operator - a strong indication that operators unwilling to meet higher standards are leaving the sector,” it stated in the press release.

In October last year, acting on the recommendations of an independent review into the sector, the Minns Labor Government introduced tougher penalties, greater transparency for parents, a ban on mobile phones in services, and stronger powers to suspend or prohibit providers and individuals.

Armed with these new powers, the independent regulator is weeding out substandard operators whilst maintaining access for families, with the total number of services across NSW remaining stable at around 6,200.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said parents should have confidence that when they drop their child off at an early learning service, their child will be safe.

“The regulatory regime we inherited was clearly not fit for purpose. The Minns Labor Government stepped in with nation-leading reforms that put child safety first, and other jurisdictions followed,” Ms Car said.

“We make no apologies for driving poor-quality operators out of the sector while supporting high-quality providers to expand. The NSW Early Learning Commission is doing its job - putting child safety first.

“Under the former Liberal-National Government, the sector was allowed to grow unchecked. We are taking action to lift standards, strengthen oversight and restore confidence for families.”

Rotary Club of Richmond donates $21k to local community groups

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Rotary Club of Richmond recently worked side-by-side with the Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association (HDAA) to manage the gates at the Hawkesbury Show, which was held on 24-26 April. Crowds took advantage of the excellent weather and thoroughly enjoyed the huge variety of vendors, exhibitions and displays throughout the three days.

For over 25 years, the Rotary Club of Richmond has supported local community groups and charities through funds raised at the Hawkesbury Show. These funds are raised through gate management, where a small percentage of ticket sales are calculated by the HDAA and presented to Rotary at the conclusion of the Show. As well, the Rotary Canteen seating (next to the Rotary Windmill) was funded, built and gifted to the HDAA, and is used on occasions to raise funds for the community.

This year $21,000 was distributed to the following groups: Richmond Riding for the Disabled, Hawkesbury Sister City Association, Hawkesbury Valley Men’s Shed, Oakville Scout Group, Glossodia Scout Group,

Richmond Ex-Serviceman’s Soccer, Kurrajong North Richmond Rotary, Windsor Rotary, Hawkesbury Inner wheel, Rouse Hill Men’s Shed, CWA Night Group, Richmond North Public School P&C and Richmond Golf Club Vets.

President of Richmond Rotary, Debbie Cooper was delighted by the result and invited representatives from all groups to attend a Rotary dinner meeting on Monday 1st June

to receive a Partnership Honour Certificate in appreciation of their support.

Each representative, spoke of their experiences at the Hawkesbury Show and what the fund raising meant to their organisations. “The managing of the gates and serving patrons in the Rotary canteen was a ‘non-stop’ and busy activity, which could not be done successfully without such community support,” Ms Cooper said.

‘This is the Rotary Ideal in action, seeking local community partners and helping them to raise much-needed funds for their organisations. It is so humbling to hear members of these groups explain what the fundraising will be used for, and the wonderful purpose-filled objectives that the funds will be targeted to, invariably, for the well-being of young people’.

The 2027 Hawkesbury Show is scheduled for 16-18 April.

Western Sydney’s Catholic Diocese Marks 40 Years of Growth, Diversity and Community Service

ALMOST a thousand people packed out St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta on Sunday 31 May to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Diocese of Parramatta, marking four decades of growth across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

The celebration brought together Church leaders, elected representatives, educators, community organisations, and parishioners young and old from across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains – many in brightly coloured traditional national costume, reflecting the Diocese’s contribution to one of Australia’s most diverse and rapidly expanding regions.

Among those attending was His Excellency Archbishop Charles Balvo, Apostolic Nuncio to Australia, in his final public appearance before retiring; Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, clergy and religious from across the Diocese and government leaders including the Hon Chris Bowen MP, the Hon Damien Tudehope MP, Donna Davies MP, Julia Finn MP and Parramatta Councillors.

Established on 8 April 1986 by Pope St John Paul II, the Diocese of Parramatta was created to serve Western Sydney’s rapidly growing population. Forty years later, the

Diocese spans seven local government areas, serves more than 322,000 Catholics and supports communities through 45 parishes, more than 80 schools, childcare centres, aged care services, chaplaincies, migrant support programs, outreach and welfare initiatives.

Bishop Vincent Long said the anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate not only the Church’s history

but also the people and communities that have shaped Western Sydney.

“Long before the Diocese was created, Parramatta was known as the Cradle of Catholicism in Australia. From our earliest colonial history, our faith took root and was nurtured by humble generations of Catholics.

“It is with pride that we can say Parramatta has set the tone for an inclusive, welcoming and courageous

Australia. Waves upon waves of refugees and migrants who have made their home here since the first settlement continue to attest to the best that this country can be. As you can see, we are the Church of new Australians, beginning with the sitting bishop himself.”

Today, the Diocese is Australia’s youngest and most multicultural Catholic diocese, representing more than 40 cultural communities and reflecting the extraordinary diversity of modern Western Sydney.

As Western Sydney continues to experience significant population growth and infrastructure investment, the Diocese remains focused on supporting families, young people, migrants, refugees and vulnerable communities throughout the region.

St Marys RSL sub-Branch – Supporting Veterans, their family and local school students

OUR local St Marys RSL sub-Branch continues to provide valuable support across the region, as it has done since first established in1929. Veterans and their family have always been a key concern for support, of course. In later years, the sub-Branch has worked hard to extend that support to all local schools so as to ensure that the next generation of leaders in our community is fully aware of the sacrifices made by our Defence Force members in protecting the Nation that we are all privileged to live in today.

Book Tributes to Schools

Over recent years, kind-hearted attendees at our Commemorative Services have laid Tributes in the form of books on Australian Military History.

St Marys Senior High School (via Librarian, Kerrie-Ann) kindly hosted the distribution of these books to local schools for use in their school Library.

Vice President Chris Ghalayini reminded school representatives of the many and varied ways in which our local St Marys RSL sub-Branch is available to assist schools in bringing our Nation’s military culture and

history to notice for students, thereby emphasising the significant value and protection that our Nation’s military provides the peoples of Australia.

Schools included St Marys Senior High, Mamre Anglican, Emmaus College, Cambridge Park High and Wollemi College. Teachers and students were then invited to choose a range of book titles for their school Library while enjoying a light lunch, compliments of our RSL sub-Branch.

Wellbeing Activities for Veterans and their Family

June has been a busy period for Veterans, their partners and family - and the same is available for July

(see the calendar below for July’s activities at St Marys).

Early in the month the Barefoot Bowls enjoyed a warm Friday morning on the green, although most had trouble closing in on that elusive little white one! Meanwhile, there was pretty-well record numbers at the Saturday morning Walk, with 29 on deck. The walk concluded with the usual delicious breakfast and chat - and thank you to the cooks! Then recently, our June Archery activity enjoyed a fine (sometimes very warm) morning at the Penrith City Archers, Werrington, with eighteen attending. Noah guided us through

an hour of challenge in our endeavour to strike the yellow Bull. Some were more successful than others!

The St Marys Veteran Wellbeing Program is jointly provided by the St Marys RSL sub-Branch and the St Marys Outpost Veteran Support Centre (“The Train”).

The activities are open to all Veterans and, for many of the activities, partners and/or children are equally welcome. [Note for the Archery, the minimum age is 8 year old.] Many activities are either costfree or require a small contribution for participants.

Interested veterans just need to contact the RSL sub-Branch or the Outpost Veteran Support Centre –refer to contact details in the Calendar below.

Trailblazing partnership with Legal Aid celebrated

FROM trailblazer to model of success, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital is celebrating ten years of partnership with Legal Aid NSW.

In 2016 Blacktown Hospital pioneered the first Health Justice Partnership in the state, creating a path for other hospitals to follow.

A decade on, more than 1,400 referrals have been made for the service from Blacktown Hospital with similar partnerships in place across the state in eight local health districts.

Anna Fainuu was one of the pioneering clinicians and is currently the Women and Children’s Health Social Work team leader at Blacktown Hospital.

“Having Legal Aid onsite allows us to directly support patients and connect them with legal advice they would not ordinarily access, particularly women and families from communities who face barriers to engaging with services in the community,” Anna said.

Anna worked with several members of Legal Aid to establish the partnership, initially with solicitor Ruth Pilkinton and later Emma

Zammit, the current solicitor providing the weekly clinic at Blacktown.

Anna said the partnership with Legal Aid is an important piece in improving the health of population, especially when their health is directly impacted through domestic violence.

Some women come in with debt because of relationship violence, or injuries due to domestic violence. They need housing, they need income, so that advocacy from a solicitor can keep these in place or get those started if they’ve stopped, Anna said. “ “

Katie Kelso, Executive Director of Family Law at Legal Aid, said having regular appointments at the hospital has given their organisation the capacity to build relationships through accessibility and availability.

“Our ability to support a family and support children to stay safely at home with their family is something we can all get behind,” Katie said.

“It has a huge impact on the functioning of families, and ultimately on the community and society as a whole,” Katie said.

Thanks to the sustained partnership across the decade, Katie says staff

have a high-level understanding of when an issue could be referred to Legal Aid.

“It’s meant a much greater understanding of how their clients are situated, and their issues, which means ultimately they’re going to have their health needs met and their associated legal needs met.

Acting Head of Social Work for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Peter Hogg, said he’s thrilled to see the hard work established a decade ago continuing to benefit patients today.

“Things come up, especially in emergencies, for patients and families that need to be addressed that may not have been addressed before, so having something on site means that they can get that advice straight away,” Peter said.

For more information about Legal Aid, head to www.legalaid.nsw.gov. au/ I’m proud Blacktown was the first hospital in New South Wales with a partnership with Legal Aid. “ “

Western Sydney Local Health District welcomes new Chief Executive

WESTERN Sydney Local Health District has welcomed Alison Zecchin as its new Chief Executive, commencing the role in June 2026.

Mrs Zecchin joins the district from Northern Sydney LHD, where she has served as General Manager of Royal North Shore Hospital for the past eight years. She brings more than 35 years’ experience in NSW Health, including senior nursing leadership roles.

During her career, Mrs Zecchin has overseen significant redevelopment and service planning projects, and driven improvements in patient flow, quality, safety and performance across complex health environments.

She will now lead one of the state’s largest health organisations, with more than 14,000 staff delivering care across five hospitals, a large mental health service, as well as community and outreach services supporting a population of more than 1.2 million people.

Western Sydney Local Health District Board Chair Loretta Di Mento said she was delighted to welcome Mrs Zecchin to the role.

“Throughout her career, Alison has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a strong commitment to patient-centred care, and a collaborative approach to working with clinicians, staff and community,” Ms Di Mento said.

“Alison is widely regarded as a thoughtful and authentic leader who builds strong teams, works effectively with clinicians and staff, and leads with integrity and purpose.

“The Board looks forward to working with Alison as she continues to partner with our staff,communities and stakeholders.”

Mrs Zecchin said the role represented a meaningful return to Western Sydney.

I began my career as a student nurse at Westmead Hospital and worked in Western Sydney for the first half of my career. I have many fond memories of my time here, she said. “ “

“I am excited to bring my passion for public health, patient safety and quality to this District, and to work alongside such a skilled, committed and diverse workforce.

“The services provided to the communities across Western Sydney are exceptional in both their scope and their impact, and this is something to be recognised and celebrated.”

Mrs Zecchin and the District’s Board also paid tribute to Amanda Larkin, thanking her for her leadership while acting as Chief Executive since July 2025.

CROSSWORD

Magnify: Live Arts 2026 applications open now!

MAGNIFY: Live Arts supports Western Sydney artists to develop new live projects.

Delivered by Blacktown Arts and Blacktown City Council, Magnify: Live Arts is a multi-form creative development and residency program for early-career Western Sydney artists developing new live works.

Blacktown Arts will support artists with their new live project idea by providing:

• financial support of up to $5,000

• mentoring by industry guests and the Blacktown Arts team

• one-week of residency space in Western Sydney in November.

Open to individuals and groups, the program encourages experimentation, collaboration and connection with fellow residents, guest mentors and the Blacktown Arts team.

The Mayor of Blacktown City Brad Bunting said: “Western Sydney is full of talented artists with bold ideas and strong stories to tell.

“Magnify: Live Arts gives early-career artists practical support to develop those ideas, work with mentors and create something new here in Blacktown.

“I encourage artists from Blacktown and across Western Sydney to apply, whether they are working in performance, dance, music, theatre or another form of live arts.”

Creatives across a range of live arts mediums are encouraged to apply.

This includes but is not limited to performance, dance, music composition and theatre.

The opportunity is open to all Western Sydney artists, with a focus on Blacktown City.

Applications close: Monday 29 June 2026, 11.59 pm

For more information visit: https:// blacktownarts.com.au/event/magnify-live-artsapplication/2026-06-03/

ACROSS

Viewed (8)

Collapsed (8)

In a vigorously passionate manner (7)

Financial maintenance (7)

Stocking (4)

In an illegal manner (9)

Cultural (6)

4 Butler’s fictitious paradise (7)

External (9)

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At an angle (8) 11 Object of worship (4) 15 Separation from others (9)

Directors (8)

18 The “runs” (8)

20 Shout (4)

21 A ten dollar bill (7)

22 Shoot for (6)

23 Words of a song (6)

26 Surpass (5)

Andrew Hardie McCulloch (Snr)

By Lyn Forde

HE was the epitome of the ruthless wheeler dealer in saleable land, who always had inside information. An anti-hero of the 1870s and 1880s. He was a solicitor, conveyancer, real estate speculator and pastoralist who practised in Sydney from 1867 until 1904. He was born in Scotland in September 1820 to Thomas and Sarah McCulloch (Nee: Allan) who married in February 1816 in Glasgow. His father Thomas was born in Scotland in 1787 and came out to Australia as a convict, convicted for 14 years on the “Speke” in December 1820. His occupation at the time of sentencing was “stocking maker” (or weaver) also at this time he was considered a respectable settler. Thomas was one of 19 “Scottish Radicals” transported as part of the trials for “high treason” in Scotland under a Special Commission held at Stirling in the year 1820. The ship arrived in Sydney in May 1821. The “Radical War”, also known as the Scottish Insurrection of 1820, was a week of strikes and unrest. The end of the Napoleonic Wars brought economic depression, and in 1816 some 40,000 people attended a meeting on Glasgow Green to demand a more representative Government to end the Corn laws that kept food prices high. The industrial revolution affected handlooms (weavers in particular) and unrest grew, despite attempts by the authorities to employ jobless men and open relief centres to relieve hardship. His wife Sarah came to Australia in November 1823 on the “Jupiter” with Andrew aged three and his brother Thomas (Jnr) thanks to the Government plan to re-join relatives. Thomas (Snr) was free and living in Clarence Street in Sydney. He was fully pardoned in August 1835 and went on to make a modest contribution to the colonies as a businessman and craftsman. He was also the great-great-grandfather of Eleanor Dark the author, who wrote “The Timeless Land” in 1941. Thomas died in March 1863 at the age of 75 years and is buried at St Johns’ Anglican Church cemetery in Ashfield. Andrew married Elizabeth Thompson Griffin in 1841. The Australian newspaper in 1844 states: - Andrew Hardie McCulloch of Elizabeth Street in Sydney in the colony of NSW, at present serving under articles of Clerkship to Mr George Allen of Elizabeth street in Sydney. This gentleman is one of the Attorneys of the Supreme Court of NSW. I do intend to apply to their Honours the Judges of the said Court on the last day of the next term, to be admitted an Attorney Solicitor and Proctor of the said court. When the O’Connell Estate at St Marys was being divided up, all but sixteen hectares was sold. In 1855 some of this land (eleven lots) was sold by mortgagees to Andrew, who in 1856 re-sold to Charles Hadley, George Hope, George Dempsey, James Cummins, Henry Nash and William Cummins. In 1858 Andrew was one of two Executors’ of John Tindale’s will that was being contested in the Supreme Court by Martyn & Schroder “Auctioneer & Commission Agents” who lost their case for the amount of over £558, and were ordered to return that amount or sufficient disposable property to the Estate, but they were made insolvent. Greater access to the Blue Mountains came when the railway was extended to Weatherboard (now called Wentworth Falls) and opened in July 1867. Sir Henry Parkes bought a large acreage at Faulconbridge in 1876. Sir James Martin, who was both a friend and ministerial associate of Parkes bought a total of 900 acres in 1876-7 between Faulconbridge and Linden and adjoining Parkes’ holdings. He re-sold some of it in October 1878

to Sir Alfred Stephen (Chief Justice of the Supreme Court) who built a wooden house, but in 1882 due to financial difficulties he sold the house and land to Andrew who purchased the parcel of land for £13,000. During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the owners of the properties on this estate were boasting some of the grandest gardens in NSW, developed with the guidance of the curator of the Sydney Botanic Gardens. The estate had a fascinating history created by some of Australia’s political, educational and social elite. Andrew’s “Eurama” house was originally referred to as “Weemala”, an Aboriginal word meaning an expansive view but later it changed to “Eurama Castle”, a Greek word with a similar meaning. The architect of Andrew’s estate was George Mansfield and the builder was Patrick (Paddy) Ryan who had constructed the stonework that was locally quarried. Andrew furnished his country house using the exclusive Sydney firm of Lyon Cottier and Co. The gardens and a tennis court and a dam wall constructed to create a lake were set out at this time. The property was sold in 1889 to John Cliff. None of the original estate survived due to bushfires early in the twentieth century. “Eurama” stood as a stone ruin, gutted by a bush fire in 1968. In August 2015 an attempt was made to sell off the property spanning 93.56ha now called the Eurama Castle Estate (a country-style house and tower) and made up of 15 lots that holds the remains of Eurama. The place called the “playground for the rich and famous of the time” had an asking price of $1 million. The auction advertisement of the uninhabitable ruin said that “despite the house being in ruins, there are standing slabs of its original sandstone walls and established trees wrap around it. A portion of the gully that met an ornamental lake used for small sail boats is still there and there are still two swimming pools there that were cut into sandstone as well as a man-made dam from possibly 100 years ago.” In November 2015 the property was sold for $1,225,000 to the Donghua Group under mortgagee instructions. Andrew (Snr) died in January 1905 aged 84 and Elizabeth died in 1888 at their residence “Tara”, Ocean Street at Woollahra and both are buried in a vault in the Anglican section of the Waverley cemetery at Bronte. His son also Andrew Hardie McCulloch (who was the grandfather of Eleanor Dark) died in 1947 in Mosman aged 88 years and is also buried in a vault near to his parents.

IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…

ALEX SONCINI

World Cup Prep and Your Home Loan: Why Now Is the Time to Get Ready

The cash rate has held at 4.35% — but a pause is not the same as being in the clear. Here’s why this is the moment to review your position.

WORLD Cup fever prompted me to write this article. Watching national squads in their final stretch of preparation — refining their fitness, studying conditions, and making sure every detail is covered before the tournament begins — it struck me how similar that mindset is to what borrowers should be doing with their home loan right now. The players who perform best are not scrambling to get ready once the tournament starts. They put the work in beforehand, while there is still time to make changes that matter.

Your home loan deserves that same attention. The Reserve Bank has just paused on rates — but a pause is not a guarantee that the pressure is over. It’s a window of time, and what you do with it now could matter more than what happens at the next decision.

Where Things Stand Right Now

The RBA held the cash rate steady at its June meeting, keeping it at 4.35% following three consecutive 25-basis-point increases earlier this year in February, March and May. That sequence of hikes has noticeably tightened financial conditions, and the Bank is now taking time to see how much of that tightening has flowed through the economy.

Inflation, however, remains a live concern. Underlying price pressures are still elevated, with RBA staff projecting inflation to stay above target until late 2027. Governor Michele Bullock has been clear that monetary policy remains “well placed to respond to developments” and that the Board will raise the cash rate further “if required.” Market expectations can shift quickly, but another increase before year’s end remains a possibility, with the

August decision likely to be watched closely by borrowers and economists alike.

In short: this is a pause, not a resolution. The next move could go either way.

Prepare Now, Not Under Pressure

Athletes don’t wait until the competition starts to get into shape — by then, it’s too late to make meaningful improvements. The same applies to your finances. Waiting until the next rate decision to review your loan means reacting under pressure, rather than acting on your own terms while you still have the choice.

Here’s what getting ahead of it looks like in practice:

• Review your current rate against what is available in the market today — competition between lenders remains strong, and many borrowers may be paying more than they need to, depending on their circumstances.

• Check your loan structure — offset accounts, redraw facilities, and fixed/variable splits can all be reviewed to see whether they still suit your needs.

• Stress-test your budget against a further rate rise, so a future increase is less likely to catch you off guard.

• Consider getting pre-approval sorted now if you are planning to buy, so you are not scrambling if conditions shift.

The Cost of Waiting

A delay in reviewing your position in a volatile rate environment may carry a real cost, often paid in unnecessary interest. With three rate rises already locked in this year and the possibility of more to come, even a modest improvement in your rate or structure could make a meaningful difference to your monthly repayments and long-term position, depending on your circumstances.

Refinancing activity has remained strong

throughout this cycle, as many borrowers look proactively for sharper rates and more flexible structures rather than waiting and hoping conditions improve on their own. Acting early can give you more time to compare options and make a considered decision.

Be Ready Before the Next Decision

The next RBA decision is due on 11 August. Whether that brings another increase, another hold, or eventually a cut, the borrowers in the strongest position will be the ones who used this pause to prepare — not the ones who waited to see what happens and reacted afterwards.

Whether you’re refinancing, buying, or simply unsure if your current loan still suits you, now is the time to review your position while you still have the room to do it on your own terms.

At WealthWiz, we believe the smartest move in a noisy, fast-moving environment is a human connection — someone who understands your situation, follows the market, and can help cut through the noise to identify options that may work for you. Technology is a tool. Advice is personal. Call Alex, an MFAA accredited finance broker, today on 0419 600 177.

A quick review today may help you make clearer decisions before conditions change again.

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. For information about whether a loan may be suitable for you, call us on 0419 600 177.

BY

Western NEWS

Friday, 26 June 2026

The Master Pennant and WGN Pennant

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE penultimate round of the 2026 Master Pennant was held on Sunday, with local golf clubs recording two wins, three draws and six losses. With just one round left to play, the Division and Relegation playoffs have become clearer. Wallacia has already secured a playoff berth in Division Four, thanks to an unbeaten run through Section Three. Chris Holmes, Kevin Chester, George Simpson and Martin Scicluna were also all undefeated during the regular season.

Division One: Section One –Cromer has wrapped up the title but second-placed Penrith needs a good result away from home next Sunday to avoid the Relegation playoffs. Section Three - Dunheved has edged away from Relegation worries but needs to win or tie at home against Asquith on Sunday; Section Four – Stonecutters Ridge should finish third, irrespective of results.

Division Two: Section OneSecond-placed Lynwood has an opportunity to win the title with a home win over leaders Bayview on Sunday. Section Two – Richmond

looks destined to finish fourth and will go to the Relegation playoffs.

Section Three- Springwood should finish second or third. Section Four –this Section is still a lottery, with Twin Creeks able to finish anywhere from first to fourth, depending upon results

from the final round.

Division Three: Section OneLeonay will finish second or third, Section Three – Glenmore Heritage Valley could mathematically finish first but needs to win at home and hope Bexley can overcome leaders

Campbelltown. Section Four – Fox Hills leads the Section and needs either a win or tie against Beverley Park to wrap up the title.

Division Four: Section ThreeWallacia has wrapped up the Section title and will advance to the playoffs.

Round Five Results (home teams listed first): Division One: Penrith 6-2 over Long Reef, Monash 7-1 over Stonecutters Ridge, Asquith drew 4-4 with Dunheved; Division Two: Bayview 5-3 over Lynwood, Lakeside 5.5-2.5 over Richmond, Oatlands 6-2 over Springwood, Twin Creeks tied 4-4 with Manly; Division Three: Massey Park tied 4-4 with Leonay, Roseville 5.5-2.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley, Beverley Park 6-2 over Fox Hills; Division Four: Rosnay lost 7-1 to Wallacia.

The final round of the Women’s Golf Nepean (WGN) Pennant was held on Monday 22nd June, with the following results. Leonay defeated Penrith 4-1, Lakeside defeated Camden 4-1, and Campbelltown defeated Richmond 3-2.

Next week’s round will be played at Campbelltown, with Penrith vs Lakeside (9:00am), Camden vs Richmond (9:30am) and Windsor vs Leonay (10:00am).

Local riders ready for final round of ASBK

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK) for 2026 will conclude at Queensland Raceway this weekend, June 26-28. The 3.126km circuit is a magnet for fierce braking duels and exceptionally close racing, promoting jaw-dropping action. Elevated mounds offer spectators an unrestricted view of the entire six-turn circuit.

Competing classes are: SWMOTECH Superbike (JJ Nahlous - Glenwood, Jack Favelle - Cattai), Kawasaki Supersport (Jake Farnsworth - Glenhaven), Kawasaki Supersport Next Gen, – RACE and ROAD Supersport 300 (Zac Russo – Sackville North), BLU CRU R3 Cup (Zac Russo – Sackville North), BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup and Superbike Masters (Jack Passfield –Bidwell).