KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH THE COMMUNITY
13 August 2014
2
Independent FORTNIGHTLY COMMUNITY NEWS
www.innerwestbusinessexpo.com
6 October 2011
www.burwoodscene.com.au
Dealing With Change
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6 October 2011
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Drummer back to the old beat Celebrating 60 years of Print Services
by Mitchell Jordan
WHEN Strathfield musician Ratheepan Rajkumar takes to the stage this month he’ll be coming full circle. As a child, the 33-year-old was sent off to piano lessons against his will.
Drummer-turnedkeyboardist, Ratheepan Rajkumar is busy practicing for Showcase with band member, Thiri Thiagarajah (right).
“At that time I didn’t know I was going to love music, it was more that my parents forced me into it,” he recalled. Ratheepan later developed a passion for music, though he chose drums as his instrument of choice. As one of the many performers who will take part in a celebration of South Asian Arts, Showcase 2014, Ratheepan, who performs in the band Eastern Empire, will join a group of friends known as Raddi and the Rowdies to play keyboard in an unplugged series of popular Tamil songs. “I’m returning to my skills after 17 years. It [keyboard] is something I haven’t done since I migrated here in 1994,” Ratheepan said. “Drums and keyboard are totally different: one’s percussion and the other’s melody. If I want to create my own music and tunes then I need to know about both, so it’s been a good chance to upgrade my knowledge.” The performance will also hold personal significance for Ratheepan, whose father passed away from cancer last year. “My dad bought me my first keyboard so this is like a personal tribute to him,” he said. His father was responsible for the family’s move from Sri Lanka, where Ratheepan was born, to Dubai and later Australia where he saw the chance for his children to gain a greater education. Dealing with his father’s death has not be easy for Ratheepan, who credits music as part of his healing. “Music and performing has been a saviour and kept me occupied,” he said. “I’m mentally at ease with music – it makes me feel good.” Showcase 2014 will be held at the Castle Hill RSL Club on Saturday 16 August. See www.facebook.com/showcaseyourculture
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Saturday 6th September 8:30pm $15 “Buddy’s Back is one of the most exciting shows to hit the Australian cabaret circuit in years.” Scot Robin who played the lead role in the smash hit musical “Buddy”, will perform over thirty of Buddy Holly’s hit songs including “That’ll Be The Day”, “Peggy Sue”, “Raining In My Heart”, “Rave On” and of course “Oh Boy!”.
Saturday 20th September 8:30pm $16 Tony Pantano is joined by vivacious vocalist Tina Petroni and the dazzling instrumentalist Paul Cincotta in an exceptional night of world class showmanship with rich musical heritage of Italian culture that is popular throughout the world.
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News
13 August 2014
T
HE ELECTORATES OF Reid (66km2) and Watson (42km2), which in general terms cover everything from Drummoyne to past Bankstown are in the top five most ethnically diverse in federal parliament, so it was no wonder that their elected representatives Craig Laundy (Liberal) and Tony Burke (ALP) spoke out early against changes to section 18c of the Racial Discrimination Act. It was Laundy who first came out loud and proud, taking on his own party – and there’s no doubt his
desk By Belinda Noonan
Multiculturalism: How far have we really come? colleagues listened. Burke then mounted a highly successfully Walk for Respect through Lakemba and a Pledge Against Race Hate Speech. Last week Tony Abbott made a “leadership call” in abandoning all changes to 18c. For those who only judge
a government’s performance on keeping each and every promise, I have this to say: Get Real. Good and bad things happen and an on-the-ball responsive government is what decision making and leadership should be about.
How could changes to the Racial Act be legislated while at the same time toughen terrorist/ism laws? It wouldn’t have made sense. The 2011 census shows that people of English/Australian background make up 40 percent of the Reid population, followed by Chinese, Italian, Korean and Lebanese. Sadly, only 118 Aboriginal people in total. Watson is similar. In talking to a prominent Strathfield business owner last week, whose telecommunications shop is ranked number five in Australia, I was shocked to hear that
90 percent of his customers are Korean and he is trying to expand the appeal of his business to “the Aussies”. He fears “it will take another two generations” for Australia to become truly multicultural. I was talking to a man who, as a ten-year-old, moved to Australia with his family, has had all his education here and now runs many businesses across Sydney employing dozens of people. We spoke about the challenges faced by migrants, especially if they move here as adults and the reticence of older Australians to be inclusive and/or by natural
inclination to stay with what they know and avoid something different. The change in the Strathfield town centre shopping area over the past few decades is probably a study case for these changes. At the end of our ‘fixing the world’ discussion we agreed that children and food are the best conduits for change. Having despaired a little over all the above, I also know that there are still cities in southern USA where black people live on one side of the bridge and white the other.
We welcome your Letter to the Editor, which must be supplied with your name, address and telephone number for verification purposes. The publisher takes no responsibility for views expressed in any Letter to the Editor.
Inside
Stitching funds together
@ SCHOOL JUST SAYIN’
Page 8, 9, 10 Page 11
FLOWER POWER FIGHT SPORT
Page 13 Page 15
John Sidoti, MP Drummoyne, showing off a Nuristani wedding dress, Troy Grant, NSW Minister for Photo: Saimi Jeong the Arts, and Margaret Gollan, President of the Embroiderers’ Guild NSW.
by Saimi Jeong
THE Embroiderers’ Guild NSW, based in Concord West, has raised over $912,000 towards their $1.6 million target to build a three-storey gallery. “Operated by volunteers, The Guild is an important part of the ongoing future and education of art, craft and design,” said Margaret Gollan, President of the Embroiderers’ Guild NSW. The new building will become the largest centre designed for study and research of embroidery and textiles in Australia. It will also provide facilities for exhibitions and opportunities to share skills and cultural heritage. “Rather than having pieces put in drawers, [the gallery] can actually exhibit them,” Member for Drummoyne John Sidoti said. Members of the Embroiderers’ Guild NSW – currently at 1,500 statewide – have access to workshops, courses, the Collection and the library at Queen Street.
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An independent fortnightly community newspaper. 100% family owned and operated. Published by Scene Newspapers next issue: Wednesday 27 August 2014 deadline: Wednesday 20 August 2014 Advertising: ads@burwoodscene.com.au Phone: 9715 2700 Fax: 9715 2007 Editorial: editor@burwoodscene.com.au Phone: 9715 2700 Fax: 9715 2007 Post: PO Box A187, Enfield South, NSW 2133 Editor: Belinda Noonan Deputy Editor: Mitchell Jordan Journalist: Sami Jeong Accounts: Aileen Soria Art Director: Kevin Robinson Sales Director: Robin Eggleton Printed by: Rural Press Burwood Scene Daily Online: Webmaster: Cameron Jelinek Burwood Scene is a registered trademark. All material appearing in this newspaper is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without the consent of the copyright holder. Delivered across four municipalities: Burwood, Strathfield, Canada Bay and Ashfield.
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News
13 August 2014
WWII pilot’s family found
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ORCHID SHOW RETURNS ORCHIDS are one of the world’s most popular and beautiful flowers and many homes have at least one because they are excellent in pots. This year’s winter show by the Western Suburbs Orchid Society will be held from August 21 to 24 at Ashfield Mall, presenting inner west residents with the opportunity to learn more about these fabulous flowers plus a chance to buy plants at bargain prices direct from the growers. The winter show is always spectacular and shoppers will see rare and exotic flowers, which are normally hidden away in glass houses. On display are award winning flowers from the skilled growers of Western Suburbs Orchid Society who
are rated amongst Australia’s best growers. One of the most popular features of the winter show is the beginners corner run by Carmen and Patti, two experienced growers who are always happy to chat about their knowledge and pass on tips learnt over many years of orchid growing. If you want to learn more about orchids, new members are always welcome at the monthly meetings of the Western Suburbs Orchid Society, held in the Uniting Church Hall in Carrington Avenue, Strathfield on the third Monday of every month at around 7.30pm. Visitors are also welcome. The winter show is on at Ashfield Mall from August 21 to 24 and open from 9am until close each day. See www.wsorchidsociety.com for more information.
20-yearold Ronald George Smith in 1944.
Judy Smith, the sister-in-law of Sergeant Ronald George Smith. by Belinda Noonan
ON SEPTEMBER 18, 1944 two young pilots took off from Broome in a RAAF Beaufighter and were listed as missing in action after they crashed into the ocean. With the plane missing off the coast of Broome, the bodies of the men were never recovered and the whereabouts of the plane remained a mystery until it was discovered in 2012 by amateur historians Dion Marinis and Jim Miles. The search began for the families of then Perth-based Sergeant Ronald Kerrigan and Strathfield/Burwood local, Sergeant Ronald George Smith who was just twenty years-of-age when the plane went down. Sergeant Kerrigan’s family was located in Perth soon after but the task to find Sergeant Smith’s family proved more difficult until an ABC documentary aired a few months ago, followed by a request to news outlets to assist. Within one hour of Burwood Scene hitting the streets on July 30, Croydon Park resident, Judy Smith called to say the missing pilot was her brother-in-law and
that her family had recently become aware that the plane had finally been found. “I felt very strange to see it on the ABC, and then to read about it in the paper,” Judy said. “It would have been marvellous if John had known that the plane was found. For the rest of the family, which is quite small, there is now closure.” Judy’s husband John, passed away ten years ago. He was seven years younger than his brother Ronald. “It was always a big thing in my husband’s life,” Judy said of her husband’s feelings about his brother. “I’m happy that the wreckage has been found and that there is closure.” “George and Henrietta Smith lived in Strathfield, where they raised their family and were members of the Methodist Church. John and I had three children and named our second son, who was born in 1964, after his lost uncle,” Judy explained. A memorial service will be held in Broome for the pilots and their families on September 18 – the 70th anniversary of the ill-fated mission. Judy will be attending with her son and his family.
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news YOUR News
13 August 2014
M AY O R ’ S M E S S A G E
FROM BURWOOD COUNCIL
Sandakan remembered
Follow me on Twitter: @johnfaker
E
very year our community gathers in front of the Sandakan Memorial to recognise one of the largest military atrocities in our nation’s history. In the final stages of World War II, Australian Prisoners of War were forced to march from Sandakan to Ranau on what would later be known as the Sandakan Death Marches. On Sunday, 3 August hundreds gathered around the Sandakan Memorial in Burwood Park to honour the 1,787 Australian Prisoners of War who never returned.
Burwood has a strong connection to the events that transpired in Sandakan during World War II with 23 men from our local area never returning home from the Death Marches. For the first time, a representative from Sandakan Municipal Council attended the moving ceremony. In 2012, Burwood and Sandakan Municipal Council officially became Sister Cities with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in Malaysia.
Members of the Burwood Lions Club
Students from Enfield Primary School planting trees
Local students show off their green thumb Students from Enfield Primary School, Croydon Park Public School, PLC Croydon and MLC Burwood took part in the event .
Get your 2P Prime Parking Permit
D
o you live in the Burwood LGA? You are now eligible to receive your 2P Prime Parking Permit for 2014/15.
C O N TA C T S
Please visit Council Chambers or call 9911 9911 for information on how to receive your permit.
C R J O H N FA K E R (Mayor) 9911 9916 mayor@burwood.nsw.gov.au C R TO N Y D O U E I H I
0437 970 499 tony.doueihi@burwood.nsw.gov.au
C R S A L LY D E A N S
0424 022 627 sally.deans@burwood.nsw.gov.au
C R L E S L E Y F U R N E AU X - CO O K
Celebrate 20 years of the Burwood Lions Club
P
lease join us at the Burwood Lions Mayoral Cocktail evening as we celebrate 20 years of the Burwood Lions Club.
The Club has been working closely with Council for many years at our numerous civic events to help raise money for various local charities.
C R J U S T I N TAU N TO N
0408 227 826 lesley.furneaux-cook@burwood.nsw. gov.au
0488 083 108 justin.taunton@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR GEORGE MANNAH
0425 691 838 ernest.wong@burwood.nsw.gov.au
0448 133 396 george.mannah@burwood.nsw.gov. au
CR ERNEST WONG
Burwood Council, Level 2, 1–17 Elsie Street, Burwood NSW 2134
9911 9911 www.burwood.nsw.gov.au
MEETINGS
A
touch of green has been added to Burwood with students from local schools helping Council plant trees for National Tree Day.
Date: Thursday, 28 August Time: 5.30pm – 7.30pm Location: Burwood Library and Community Hub RSVP: ea.mayor@burwood.nsw.gov.au or 9911 9916
Council Meeting 25 August 2014 at 6pm in Council Chambers
News
13 August 2014
Sunday
21 SeptembeR
BURWOOD PARK
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News
13 August 2014
The power of love
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Rock’s leading lady, Courtney Love, is returning to Australia this month. by Mitchell Jordan
SHE may have a reputation for her outrageous behaviour, but rock star Courtney Love does not like being called controversial. During both the mid-nineties when she lost her husband, Nirvana front man Kurt Cobain, to suicide and the early 2000s when a cocaine addiction wreaked havoc on both her personal and professional life, it appeared to many that Love was falling apart. Not so the Love of 2014. With the release of two new songs, an upcoming role in the TV series Sons of Anarchy and her first Australian tour since 1999, there is no doubt that Love is in fine form. Indeed, all it takes is a minute speaking to her on the phone to realise how far removed Love is from the cheap tabloid headlines that still plague her. “I’ve had a few law suits, but you know that was [me] not understanding social media, and it was not that controversial. Other than that there’s just been nothing about me that’s been too controversial,” Love said. Now 50, Love is acutely aware that, despite an unconventional
upbringing and years as an outsider, to many she is a role model – and idol – and appears keen to show that her wild days are behind her and should not be copied or looked upon as fit for imitating. “People affect people,” Love said. Any pigeon holing she receives may well be shaken when Love appears on TV screens as a school teacher in the up-coming seventh series of Sons of Anarchy. It’s no secret that Love has been looking to return to acting for some time and still holds a fondness for the role of Lady Macbeth, which she was set to play in a film adaptation that fell through. “You get attached, but good roles come and go,” she said, nominating the fictional Batman character, Harley Quinn, as one she’d be interested in, “but it’d have to be like a Tim Burton Batman.” In any case, Love doesn’t seem to hold the same fear of ageing which haunts many celebrities. “There are really good roles for people my age out there,” she said. Music, however, continues to be a constant in her life.
This year marked the release of Love’s first solo work since 2004, a double A-side, ‘You Know My Name’ and ‘Wedding Day.’ The latter track is three minutes and four seconds of visceral anger on par with her band Hole’s first album, Pretty on the Inside, (1991). Love revealed that the song was based on a failed romance – albeit one with a happy ending. “He stomped on my heart, I went through hell and we became really good friends,” she said. It might sound odd given the blood-curdling screams she unleashes at the end of the track, but as Love explained, straight-up love songs just aren’t her thing. “It’s always coming from some place of love, whether it’s a dented or a happy heart,” she said. Love may have changed as a person, but she still agrees with her lyrics, in particular a line from her band Hole’s album, Celebrity Skin, (1998) where she sang about changing the world with songs. “I’ve seen it done a few times, so it can happen, but it better be a damn good song,” she said. Courtney Love plays at the Enmore Theatre on 24 August.
Centenary call to help modern vets ON THE 100th anniversary of the start of the Great War, Victoria Cross recipient Keith Payne has launched Dollars for Diggers, a program to help modern veterans. “The 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Great War is an important milestone in Australia’s history,” said Mr Payne. “While we honour past generations for their service we also need to remember that many modern vets need our help right now.”
Mr Payne is an ambassador for Soldier On, the not-for-profit organisation that helps servicemen and women and government employees wounded in recent conflicts. “The goal for Dollars for Diggers is to raise $500,000 over the next four years. This will boost Soldier On’s ability to provide employment, education and rehabilitation services to wounded veterans and run programs to help their families.” People can contribute to Dollars for Diggers by donating
online or by purchasing from the Australia Great War Collection. This is a select range of commemorative items designed to help schools, associations and individuals interested in Australia’s military past, mark the Anzac Centenary which runs from 2014 to 2018. Ten percent of all proceeds from the Australia Great War collection goes directly to Dollars for Diggers. For details go to website: www.australiagreatwar.com.au
News
13 August 2014
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Burwood’s booming Sparqling restaurants
Staff from the Sparqle Group restaurant outside the recently opened Sparqling Mediterranean at 130 Burwood Road. by Belinda Noonan
IN A DIFFICULT climate for many high street-style retailers, the rising number of patrons to restaurants along Burwood Road may offer some comfort to surrounding businesses. Firas and Wael Haddad saw the potential in Burwood when they took over the Palm Breeze eight years ago. So much so that they opened Sparqling Pizza & Grill next door, and yet another this year, Sparqling Mediterranean – right next door again. “We could have gone elsewhere, and did look at other suburbs and locations but Burwood has more
potential to bring people from out of the area,” Firas Haddad explained. “We considered opening in Parramatta but Burwood is becoming a night-time destination for dinner, especially for families.” “Families used to go to Leichhardt for a meal but we are seeing increasing trade here,” he added. The three side-by-side restaurants, which employ over twenty staff, are smack bang in the heart of Burwood Road’s busy restaurant sector, just a few steps to Westfield, the cinema and Burwood Park. “It’s a triple treat for choice,” said Firas, who holds a degree in hospitality management. “It’s all
about the food. I love making it, eating it and getting ideas from overseas.” All three restaurants are BYO and have extensive indoor and outdoor seating in modern, welcoming decor but the menus are markedly different. Palm Breeze is described as ‘modern Australian’ with steaks, schnitzels, burgers and traditional Italian pizza. Sparqling Pizza & Grill features woodfired pizza and the new Sparqling Mediterranean has the only menu in Burwood that includes pastas and risottos, Lebanese Mezza platters, delicious ribs and combos, and seafood.
• INNER WEST EXPO
DEALING WITH CHANGE
THIS year’s Inner West Expo has attracted some of Australia’s best business minds who will provide valuable insights into meeting the challenges posed by the current business climate. Westpac Senior Economist Matthew Hassan leads the sessions off with an update on where the economy is headed. The keynote speaker is Paul Wallbank who will give his ‘Decoding the New Economy’ speech on what
impacts the future will have on your business and what you can do about it. Flying Penguin founder, Vicki Harding is delivering a case study on how her business recently adjusted to a multi-channel business model to deal with changing customer behaviour. Also on the agenda is a Panel Q & A and a marketing presentation. You can mix with other business
owners, make contacts and view the exhibition during the five-hour expo. INNER WEST BUSINESS EXPO Burwood Community Hub 2 Conder Street, Burwood Friday August 22, 9.30am until 2.45pm Delegates $33 (including light refreshments), Exhibitors $55 Bookings – www.innerwest businessexpo.com - or email: iwsbexpo@gmail.com or phone: 9335 2233
Sparqling Mediterranean is doing a roaring dinner trade but also worth checking out is their Mezza platter set lunch menu for $20 per person for a minimum of four people Monday to Friday. The scrumptious mezza platter includes lamb and chicken skewers, char-grilled kafta, hummus, vine leaves,
falafel, Loubyeh Bzeit (green beans in a Mediterranean tomato sauce), Arnabeet (cauliflower with tahini sauce), Fattoush (delicious salad) and chips. The lunch offer is perfect for a group because it caters so well for most dietary requirements. The Sparqle group of restaurants are open seven days a week from 11am.
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BACK TO SCHOOL 8
13 August 2014
@ SCHOOL Southern Cross triumph at Training Accessibility for all at Homebush Boys Awards FOUR former students from Southern Cross Catholic Vocational College in Burwood were awarded the annual Australian Student Vocational Prize. The prize winners, Laura Angeloni, Emily De Sousa, Eliza Moore and Daniel Sozou, completed Year 12 at Southern Cross last year were recently presented with the $2000 prize by Assistant Minister for Education, The Hon Sussan Ley MP. Eliza Moore said College staff were an integral part in the success of her hairdressing apprenticeship. “Attending Southern Cross was the best thing I have ever done and the extra-curricular opportunities offered to me to expand my skills would not be afforded to students at any other school,” she said.
@ SCHOOL
A 12-MONTH upgrading project costing $1.6million spells the end of inaccessibility for mobility-challenged students and staff at the one hundred year old Homebush Boys High School. Upgrade works included the installation of five lifts and ramps to provide access to 46 of 71 learning spaces including the library with its own dedicated lift. “Schools have to set standards that allow all students to receive the same education,” declared Principal Tim Jurd.
“Local children should be able to go to a local school.” Attending the official opening, Member for Reid Craig Laundy spoke to the students and staff on a personal level, outlining his own family’s determination to provide equal opportunity for his daughter who has impairment. “I just cannot tell you how good it is to open up these spaces (at Homebush Boys High) for those who have mobility issues or are disabled, or indeed – injured. “My family has been touched by disability and you want
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
your children to have access to communities,” Mr Laundy said. Teacher Annette Legge, who has a significant knee problem, emphasised the need for access everywhere. “We live in an age when all should have access to all public buildings and places,” she said. “Any student who enrols here will be able to enter every building and this ensures there is no discrimination of students. “The school is also now accessible for visitors – for everyone.”
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Back To Schoo l Eliza Moore makes the cut with her hairdressing skills.
To advertise call 9715 2700
Each of the four will use their prize money to further their careers in hairdressing, business services and hospitality. The 2014 NSW Training Awards also saw three students, Aaron Gage, Georgia Pinter, Gifty Saah and staff member, retail learning facilitator,
Maria Kahila, listed as regional finalists. Fellow Year 12 student, George Anastopoulos, was also shortlisted for the NSW Manufacturing & Engineering Trades Apprentice of the Year Award.
Back To Schoo l
Santa Sabina Prep for pre-kindergarten girls and boys
Year 7 students Suran Thiyagarajah and Darshan Neshabalan participate in the ribbon cutting ceremony with teacher Annette Legge, Veronica Kapsimali, Tim Jurd and Craig Laundy MP.
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@ SCHOOL
13 August 2014
New primary school in North Strathfield
Wests back online Students share in Gallipoli experience tutoring WESTS Ashfield Leagues has provided $10,500 in funding sponsorship of the online Your Tutor Program. For the past eight years, Wests have sponsored the program which is available through Ashfield Council’s website and helps students with their homework across a diverse range of topics and age groups. “I am delighted that this year Wests Ashfield Leagues have provided $10,500 in funding to ensure local students can access the online Your Tutor program,” said Ashfield Mayor, Lucille McKenna.
AS THE start-up Principal of the new Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School (OLA) in North Strathfield, Cathy Young is looking forward to a challenging twelve months. “It is such a privilege to be given this amazing opportunity,” Mrs Young said. “I know it is going to be such a busy time – but bring it on, I say.” OLA North Strathfield, located next to the railway station, is the Archdiocese of Sydney’s 150th school opens in 2015 and is c u r re nt l y a c c e pt i n g enrolment applications for Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2. “Learning doesn’t occur in a particular way or in a particular space, as we may have previously believed,” Mrs Young explained. “Learning can occur 24/7, anywhere, in any space – so at OLA we are creating learning environments to reflect this kind of thinking.”
In the past financial year, over 400 children have been helped under the program. Under the program, students from Year 4 - 12 can get help from expert live tutors to help them with their homework and assignments across a range of subjects including maths, English, science and study skills including essay writing and research. The Your Tutor program is free to use and runs from Monday to Friday from 4pm – 8pm. Students can log on by using their Library card.
$5000 to commemorate ANZACs
OLA North Strathfield Principal, Cathy Young with a young student.
Enrolling parents Sandra and John Sasso are excited After completing six that their son Marco will years as Principal at be in the first intake of neighbouring school St students. Ambrose Concord West, “When we had the Cathy spent two years working as the Head of interview with Mrs Young, Gifted Education at the we immediately knew that CEO Sydney. this was the school for our
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son Marco,” Mrs Sasso said. “After that one meeting, I immediately felt there was trust. My husband John and I believe that it will be an amazing school because of Cathy, and because of her ambition and her positive energy.”
THE NSW Government has announced that $5,000 will go to the City of Canada Bay as part of the Anzac Community Grants program, which aims to encourage multicultural communities and young people to take part in the Anzac spirit. “I am pleased to announce that students and migrants in the Drummoyne electorate will benefit from this
latest funding round to help commemorate and perpetuate the Anzac spirit,” said John Sidoti MP, Member for Drummoyne. The grant goes to City of Canada Bay’s “More than Just a Name, World War One Multimedia” project for 2014-15. Students will create a short video in workshops based on the personal story of a service man or woman connected to the local area.
A BALLOT has been opened for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to embark on the NSW G ov e r n m e nt’s 2 0 1 5 Gallipoli School Tour. Expressions of Interest (EOI) to enter the ballot are open until 27 August and can be submitted on the NSW Centenary of Anzac website. Schools can apply individually or in groups of up to four schools. Schools that are drawn in the ballot will conduct a local selection process,
with students enrolled in years 10, 11 and 12 be invited to submit a written or visual piece of work on a theme or topic related to the Centenary of Anzac. Shortlisted students will then be asked to present their work to a panel of school and community representatives and will be assessed on their suitability to represent NSW on the tour. To enter visit www. v e t e r a n s . n s w. g ov. au / centenary/gallipoli-2015school-tour
High school students speak up THE NEXT young Tony Abbott or Julia Gillard can show the House of Representatives what they’re made of in the My First Speech Competition. The nationwide competition is now open to all Australian secondary students enrolled in years 10 to 12. Students are being asked to imagine themselves as a newly elected MP and to write and present a three-minute speech about an issue they are passionate about. House of Representatives Speaker Bronwyn Bishop
said she looked forward to hearing more about the issues most important to young people across the country. “The My First Speech Competition is a great way for parliamentarians to connect with Australian students,” she said. “In the past the entries have been of very high quality and I look forward to seeing what students want to talk about this year.” E nt r i e s c l o s e 1 2 September. Visit www.aph.gov.au/ myfirstspeech
NEW CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Opening in North Strathfield 2015!
NORTH STRATHFIELD FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ENROL YOUR CHILD CONTACT US ON W www.olanorthstrathfield.catholic.edu.au E info@olanorthstrathfield.catholic.edu.au M 0455 059 348
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PLC Sydney is a school for girls from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, offering boarding from Year 7. The College aims to educate young women from the basis of a Christian world view to make a difference in a rapidly changing global society. We invite you to join us for an Information Session where you will have the opportunity to hear from the Principal, speak with key staff, listen to Year 12 students talk about their life at the College and take a tour of the facilities and grounds. To register please visit the ‘enrolments’ section of our website. (02) 9704 5666 enquiries@plc.nsw.edu.au Boundary Street, Croydon
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@ SCHOOL
13 August 2014
Olympic-sized pool for Summer Hill by Saimi Jeong
ANGRY locals had a meeting with local politicians on Thursday, July 31, to have their say about Trinity Grammar’s new aquatic centre, set to go in place of three residential houses knocked down by the school. Around 40 local residents met with Deputy Opposition Leader Linda Burney, Labor Candidate for Summer Hill Jo Haylen, Opposition spokesperson for Planning Luke Foley and Councillor Alex Lofts, to voice their concerns about the development’s impact on road safety, traffic congestion and noise pollution. “This is an inner-city area, we’ve got skinny little streets, there’s dozens of buses every morning and afternoon trying
to negotiate around cars… we’re just going to have a disaster,” said Adele Walsh, who lives on Prospect Road. Trinity Grammar used ‘complying development’ – NSW government planning codes – to bypass resident and council consultation and build the multimillion-dollar facilities. “It’s a process that leaves council out and leaves the community out,” said Ashfield Councillor Alex Lofts. “It’s about a large institution that has not consulted the community, w hich had developments sprung on them. State law has to change and the process has to change,” Councillor Lofts said. In 2008, the Land and Environment Court approved plans for a smaller, underground pool. The court ruling also
limited the number of students at the school to 1,500 because of impacts on the local community. Trinity went back to court to have this decision overturned and increase the student number by 200. Prospect Road resident Marilyn Wise described the current traffic conditions as “already chaotic” and fears an increase in vehicles will be more “dangerous for children”. Trinity Grammar Head Master Milton Cujes said the application to increase student numbers has been “thoroughly researched by independent consultants and endorsed by Council’s own officers”. “The School’s application… has been made subsequent to the development of its underground car park, which provides some 320 car parking spaces within
Resident backlash over Trinity Grammar’s new pool.
the School grounds,” Head Master Cujes said. Linda Burney believes “the community has every right to be outraged,” saying the aquatic centre will “change the area irreparably.”
“The construction that they’re putting in is not what they told the community… It’s just monstrous. It’s unbelievable.” Residents received letters from Trinity Grammar to notify them that the new infrastructure
plans were approved and construction would begin. Michael Farry, who lives in Victoria Square, described the planned pool as “a revenue raiser for the school, not just a school venture.” “I’m fearful of the end result.”
Performance Order on Strathfield Council LIFTS APPROVED FOR CROYDON STATION STRATHFIELD Council will have a temporary advisor in its midst appointed by the Department of Local Government following a ‘Public Interest Disclosure’ lodged with the Office of Local Government in June 2013. “On 27 May 2014, Council received a Notice of Intention to Issue a Performance Improvement Order (the Notice), concerning “serious deficiencies with Council’s internal control systems in the undertaking of procurement and tendering,” the report on council’s website states.
The details of the ‘Public Interest Disclosure’ are not known says the report but this action began a series of information requests and then investigations into Council’s internal processes. The Minister for Local Government, Paul Toole gave Strathfield Council 21 days to respond and required tabling of the Notice of the Intention and Draft Order at an open Council Meeting, which occurred at the August 5 Council meeting. In its report, Strathfield Council says the Minister referenced a Council
commissioned report from consultants SINC Solutions titled ‘Review of Procurement Services’ dated 17 March 2014 as evidence for the issue. SINC Solutions have since reviewed their findings, p a r t i c u l a r l y c ont r a c t or expenditures, after consideration of additional information and a validation process. The revised SINC Solutions report has been submitted to the Office of Local Government and supports Council’s assertion that there is no evidence of serious deficiencies in Council’s internal systems.
THE long running push for lifts at Croydon Station has been heard with a sudden announcement by NSW Transport Minister, Gladys Berejiklian on Friday August 8 that a major easy access upgrade including a new station concourse and lifts will be funded. “This multi-million dollar project will include three lifts, a new station concourse and stairs from Hennessy Street and Paisley Road,” Ms Berejiklian said. “As well as providing easy access to the station for the first time, the upgrade will include a boost to security, with new lighting and CCTV.
Ms Berejiklian said the upgrade is being delivered as part of the Government’s $770 million Transport Access Program, providing modern, accessible and integrated transport infrastructure where it’s needed most. The unexpected announcement was not included in a six station Western Sydney $150million fast-track package that includes Flemington Station announced the previous week. Mr Casuscelli welcomed the news and said it showed the NSW Government was listening to the community and was serious about improving access and facilities.
“The NSW Government is wasting no time on this project, with registrations of interest now open for a contractor to design and construct the upgrade. The community will be given a chance to view designs and plans for the project, and subject to planning approval, construction will begin next year,” he said. “The number of projects now underway at our railway stations in the Strathfield electorate is unprecedented. We have major upgrades at Flemington, Croydon and Concord West and major works at Strathfield and a station refresh at Burwood,” Mr Casuscelli said.
Meriden girls make their marks. Open Morning for new enrolments – Prep to Year 12 Thursday, 11 September 9am – 11am Tour the School and meet our Principal, teachers and students 11am
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www.meriden.nsw.edu.au
News
13 August 2014
Warm beds for winter at Exodus
Strathfield Cr Raj Datta and friends with Rev. Bill Crews and the Exodus Foundation in Ashfield. by Saimi Jeong
STRATHFIELD Councillor Raj Datta made a visit to the Exodus Foundation to show his support for their Winter Appeal.
members of our society… They need a lot of support this winter,” Councillor Raj Datta said. Based in Ashfield, the Foundation provides hot meals and showers for the homeless and disadvantaged, as well as counseling and crisis intervention, legal and financial
advice, and healthcare and dental services. “Right now, demand for these services has never been greater – many of the people we help simply cannot access mainstream services,” said Reverend Bill Crews, in an open letter of appeal for donations.
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Just sayin’…
By Mitchell Jordan
Mitchell@scenenewspapers.com.au
FLIGHT PATHS TO FEAR I WAS 26 when, after many sleepless nights, I decided to give up a full-time job and apartment in the city to see the world. I can remember a lot about those blissful months when the hardest thing was choosing what country to visit next, though I don’t remember feeling anything when – before buying a ticket – my travel agent informed me the best fare was with Malaysian Airlines. This year Malaysian Airlines has been on my mind a lot – more than Virgin America, the last airline I flew with which was so late I only just made my connecting flight home and had to wait another day for my luggage to be delivered. The perplexing disappearance of MH370 in March had all the hallmarks of a Dan Brown thriller, if only it wasn’t so tragically real. I can’t remember a time I’ve been so obsessed with the news, checking Google every few minutes and reading conspiracy theories too lurid and libellous to be repeated here. Five months later and I still find myself bewildered by the knowledge that a plane with 239 people can disappear into thin air. With respect for those who lost family and friends on the flight it seems to me a little odd that we have heard so very little from those connected to the Australian passengers. I would be so all-consumed with anger that more has not been done to find
the missing plane. Will the deep-water search slated for September reveal any clues? I hope so. After the atrocity that was MH17 the future of Malaysian Airlines now seems even more precarious. Of all the names and faces I saw, it was 25-year-old Sydney passenger, Jack O’Brien, who was returning from a seven-week European holiday with the same airline I had used that made me realise, once again, how lucky I am; though the response from Russia makes me think how lucky all Australians are to be in a country that is not occupied with blood-thirsty rebels who see innocent lives as no more than pawns in a ridiculous game of ownership. It has been heartening to meet with several younger generation Russians in Sydney who tell me that many people in their country do not agree with what is happening. No one will ever forget those who travelled on both Malaysian Airlines flights, and both tragedies will likely be in the mind of anyone who boards a plane to anywhere. Whichever way you look at the world, travel no longer seems as appealing compared to the safety of our own backyard. Mitchell Jordan is Deputy Editor at Burwood Scene.
Opal card dispute Flemington upgrade
“The Rev Bill Crews and the Exodus Foundation do a great job helping the less fortunate
moves to a fast track TRANSPORT Minister Gladys Berejiklian has announced that the major access upgrade at Flemington Station has been fast-tracked now that the scope of works has been completed. The upgrade includes new lifts, stairs, concourse and a pedestrian link bridge as part of the $150 million package for six Western Sydney train stations announced on July 31. “The upgrade is going to make a real difference for local public transport customers and local businesses who have been calling for this for so long,” said
Member for Strathfield, Charles Casuscelli. “The NSW Government recognises the importance of Flemington railway station not only to the local residents and businesses but also of the substantial numbers of visitors to Sydney Markets,” he added. The works will also include improved security with new CCTV and additional lighting. Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said the Flemington upgrade will be a huge boost for thousands of Western Sydney customers accessing Sydney
Markets, especially older people, people with a disability and parents with prams. The six Western Sydney stations that are earmarked for an upgrade under the $150million package are Penrith, Pendle Hill, Blacktown, Flemington, Wentworth Falls and Wentworthville. The final cost of the project at Flemington will be determined as part of the tender process that is now underway for all six Western Sydney stations. Construction is expected to begin in 2015.
by Saimi Jeong
OPAL CARDS are now sold at pop-up kiosks at Ashfield, Burwood and Strathfield stations, but the opposition has claimed the move makes no transport sense. “Designing a ticketing system where you can’t obtain a ticket from the staff at the train station lacks common sense and wastes taxpayers money,” Shadow Minister for Transport Penny Sharpe said. “The Minister [Gladys Berejiklian] has a team of professional and experienced staff on train stations across Sydney but she is refusing to allow them to do their job and provide service to their customers – instead… duplicating their roles,” she said.
The Greens spokesperson for Transport Mehreen Faruqi has argued the kiosks show a shift towards further privatisation of public transport. “It is very clear that this is a move to undermine public sector workers and give a private company and contractors a monopoly on selling the Opal Cards; already we have seen more than seventy public sector ticketing staff go,” Dr Faruqi said. Member for Strathfield Charles Casuscelli hit back at Labor and the Greens, pointing to “their abysmal record in contributing to this state’s transport challenges”. “Labor in Government couldn’t do it despite promises over 16 years and $100 million wasted, Gladys Berejiklian has done it in her first term of
Government,” Mr Casuscelli said. “The pop-up kiosks… are playing a key role in raising people’s awareness about Opal and the coming retirement of some old paper tickets on 1 September. This allows Sydney Trains staff to get on with the job of helping customers and selling paper tickets,” he said. Locals who travel at least five days a week have been enjoying free trips after eight paid journeys on the Opal system. “Once you’ve spent like $38 travel is free for the rest of the week… Bottom line, you’re gunna have to get one eventually,” said Ashfield resident Tanya Montuori, who works full time in the CBD. Opal cards for pensioners and students will be released later this year.
ADVERTISEMENT
Come and Mee t
Charles Casuscelli RFD MP Member for Strathfield
As a local grassroots Member of Parliament I am always keen to hear of issues that affect my local constituents. I will be holding a series of street stalls throughout the year in all parts of the electorate. Please feel free to contact my office. Please contact my office or come in: Shop 1/54 Burwood Road, Burwood NSW 2134 | P (02) 9747 1711 | F (02) 9747 6054 | E strathfield@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Charles Casuscelli RFD MP. This advertisement was produced using parliamentary entitlements.
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NEWS
13 August 2014
to Italy Canada Bay keeps clean Travel with Ferragosto TRADITIONAL Italian dancing, singing and performances will make audiences feel like they’ve travelled to Italy at this year’s Ferragosto Festival on Sunday, 17 August from 10am-4pm along Great North Road at Five Dock. “We are entering the 17th year of Ferragosto and there is so much Italian talent and activities, it’ll make festival-goers feel as though they have left Sydney and are enjoying a vibrant Sunday in Italy,” Mayor Tsirekas said. The party comes to life on Ferrafesta – the main stage – with performances by EuroLatino and continues at FerraMusica and FerraGiovani with all-day entertainment by home-grown entertainers that will get the festival moving with dance and music. S o a k up t he It a l i an atmosphere with a coffee, pastry, slice of pizza or an Italian film being shown throughout the day on Garfield Street. As a l w ay s , s t op by FerraPiazza, the traditional
Mayor Angelo Tsirekas accepts a Sustainable Cities Award
OFF THE SHELF
CANADA BAY Council’s Stop Litter in the Bay project has taken out top honours in the ‘Hey Tosser Litter Reduction Award’. Stop Litter in the Bay aims to reduce littering in Canada Bay and has all Council vehicles
featuring a sticker to remind people to keep the city clean. The projec t included community education, infrastructure upgrades in Cabarita Park, key litter chalk art messages along the bay, educational mosaic artwork in
SMALL BUSINESS AND GST
Date: Wednesday 20 August 2014 Time: 6:00pm - 7:15pm Tax information about your tax obligations as a small business owner.
LIFE CYCLES: THE TRUTH AND THE EVIDENCE
Wednesday 27 August 2014 6:00pm-7:30pm After years of research, author Neil Killion has written “The Life Cycles Revolution”. This is the first ever model for understanding our destiny and our potential based on the theory of 12 year cycles. Neil will demonstrate how people can do their own ‘life chart’ for career, relationship and family success in this fascinating talk. Book online through the What’s On section of the Library’s website www.library.burwood.nsw.gov.au or phone 9911-9999 All events are held at the Burwood Library and Community Hub 2 Conder Street, Burwood 2134
Cabarita Park created with the help of local school students, surveying and litter audits. “This project has successfully reduced litter in Cabarita Park – from BBQ litter, cigarette butts and general waste – and is a great example of what can
Italian square and enjoy the wine market or grab a picture posed as a pizza maker or gondolier. For the crafty, there are free Carnival Mask making workshops and for the soccer fans, there is a free street soccer game where you can choose your opponent and see who scores the most goals. In line with Canada Bay’s su st ai n abi l it y pro g r am , Ferragosto is plastic bag and polystyrene free. Bicycle parking is provided, as are water stations to refill water bottles. “I urge the community to help us in keeping the event environmentally friendly by riding your bike to Ferragosto and parking it for free and bringing your own reusable carry bag. “If you visit the Eco-Hub on the day and show your reusable bag or bike helmet, you could win a $100 voucher from a local bike store or the online eco store Biome,” Mayor Tsirekas said.
be accomplished when we work together,” Mayor Angelo Tsirekas said. The awards were announced at the Keep NSW Beautiful Awards held on Friday, July 18 at Concord Golf Course by City of Canada Bay.
FOOD WASTE NOT WANTED ANYMORE A $17,945 GRANT has been awarded to Canada Bay City Council, as part of a state-wide program to prevent thousands of tonnes of food being wasted. Council’s Waste Less, $ave More project, supported by Mirvac and the Pinnacle at Rhodes, will focus on reducing food waste from local businesses. This will include waste auditing, workshops and one-on-one sessions. The project is expected to divert up to 1.5 tonnes of rubbish from landfill a week. The Love Food Hate Waste grant was awarded under the Waste Less, Recycle More program and delivered by the Environment Protection Authority and the NSW Environmental Trust. The government aims to divert 75
per cent of all waste from landfill by 2021. Member for Drummoyne, John Sidoti, said food waste was a big part of this challenge. “Over the next four years, this initiative will transform the way we think about waste and how we manage it by shifting the emphasis from disposal to recovery for all types of waste,” he said. City of Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tsirekas said the program was another opportunity to work with local businesses to help them reduce waste and boost profits. “Wasted food leads to lower profits and reduced business viability. Food waste means businesses are discarding valuable resources and paying for its removal,” he added.
Ferragosto Festival on this Sunday, 14 August.
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News
13 August 2014
13
Pets the best medicine Flower Power appeals council decision
by Kristen Jordan
ANIMALS have been the greatest help in my fight against cancer. I was first diagnosed with melanoma in 2010 when I found a mole on my neck. After it was removed I thought I was in the clear, but it came back last year. More tests and scans showed I had a massive tumour my doctor said was like “a small soccer ball” on my ovary which meant going straight back to hospital for a four-hour operation. It left me with 25 staples in my stomach and a gruesome scar I still can’t bear to look at. For days I lay in the hospital bed hoping and praying that this was the last of my trouble. When I went back to Sydney to see my doctor at the Melanoma Institute she had some not-so-good news for me: the cancer was stage-four and had spread through my liver, spleen and bones. Now it’s reached my brain and I wear a wig. Most of my life has been spent outdoors with horses. I’ve competed in rodeos and equestrian events ever since I was a child and, prior to getting sick, I was working as a horse trainer. When I first returned home from hospital I would sit outside and talk to the horses: I couldn’t ride, but I could at least be near them. Not long after my diagnosis, I bought a pet dachshund, Cali. She has changed my life and made me happier. Nothing has been as good a therapy as my horses, but, unlike Cali, I can’t have them inside with me when I’m sad.
by Belinda Noonan
A girl’s best friend: Cali the dachshund keeps Kristen company.
I’d recommend that anyone who’s sick should have a pet because they make you feel less alone. A cure for cancer may never be found, but last year I was put on a new trial drug, tafinlar. If it wasn’t for this medication, I might not have made it this far. I’ve already had some amazing results: four of the 11 tumours in my brain have disappeared and the lesion in my liver has shrunk. Hope keeps me going. Doctors are always coming up with new things for all different types of cancers. Before I had cancer I took a lot of things for granted. Now, I’m grateful for even the smallest things like being able to walk my dog along the beach. I’m determined to live my life to the fullest and appreciate everything I’ve got – especially my animals. I hope we’ll both look after each other for a long time to come.
A Mum’s Message
WHEN it comes to determination it’s a case of
Daffodil Day 22 August
like-mother like-daughter for Kristen and her mum, Louise Wilson. Her daughter’s diagnosis may have turned Louise’s world upside down, though she insists that optimism is essential. “I’ve refused to think the worst,” she said. “It’s impossible to plan anything; you have to go day-to-day, but I’m so proud of how Kristen’s dealt with this. She’s the strongest person I know.” Being a single mother has made the journey all the more challenging, but when asked how she manages two jobs along with caring for her daughter, Louise replied: “You just do it. You find a way. You have to.” In the last year, Louise has spent more hours in emergency wards than she can remember. The sight of drug addicts and abusive alcoholics has both baffled and angered her, though she encourages other parents and carers to stay in high spirits. “Only think good thoughts because you can’t let cancer weigh you down,” she added.
Never say never, says Louise Wilson (right) with Kristen.
THE OWNERS of the Flower Power site have lodged their planning proposal to the NSW Department of Planning for review following Burwood Council’s rejection of the proposed development of 239 large scale dwellings. “The location of this business is not viable in the long term due to the conflict with the surrounding residential land uses and the issues previously raised by the community regarding truck movements, dust and noise. An alternate more suitable site will enable Flower Power to successfully service the local community,” Flower Power’s submission states. The local resident action committee rejected Flower Power’s assertion that the site is in conflict with its surroundings. “Clearly they are not ‘here to stay’ and shows clear contempt for the community by providing false assurances. In terms of their argument they conveniently forget that the site has been there for decades (preceding them) and is a historical part of the community and not something that conflicts with the surrounding areas,” a
“Sadly the decisions he took on behalf of Burwood Council in 2011 and 2012 have led to a situation where Croydon Park and Enfield residents may be forced to live with high density housing in their immediate neighbourhood as a direct result of Council’s desire to capitalise on its own land,” he said. A council spokesperson confirmed that council has “no plans to develop the Kingsbury Street depot,” with the mayor adding, “Burwood Council has no intention of leaving the Depot site and this is reflected in our new property strategy.” Mr Casuscelli advised Burwood Council to take whatever steps were necessary to protect the interests of residents. “Burwood Council cannot have its cake and eat it too. Burwood Council can move to reclassify the zoning of its Kingsbury Street depot adjacent to Flower Power from general residential to low density residential sending a strong message to developers that this precinct is not considered appropriate for three storey buildings,” he said. A Mayoral Minute will be raised on 25 August to investigate rezoning Council’s depot.
guided by any good practice framework.”
Along with members of NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure, Ashfield Council and the Landowners Association of Ashfield, the review lists meetings with three people from community groups comprising of heritage items or properties within conservation areas: Toula Chrisafis, on behalf of residents, Strathfield councillor Gulian Vaccari and James Phillips of Weir Phillips Architects.
LEP review draws ire by Mitchell Jordan
THE review findings of the controversial Ashfield LEP have not gone down well with Ashfield Mayor, Lucille McKenna. In February this year, former Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Brad Hazzard announced a review of Ashfield Council’s Local Environment Plan following local anger over the heritage-listing of their homes. Independent consultants, Shelley Penn and Helen Lardner were hired to undertake a review. The two completed a series of site inspections, meetings and consideration of documentation during March and April this year. Their review stated that Ashfield Council’s approach to community consultation “does not appear to have been
canterbury
Member for Strathfield, Charles Casuscelli, who was a driving force behind the review, said that the findings of the review validate the complaints of many people who came to see him in anger. “ The process adopted by Council was unfair and reckless,” he said. “Community opinion on the subject was largely ignored.” Ashfield Mayor, Lucille McKenna cast doubt over the number of residents who were angered by the first LEP.
“If this is representative of the community then I’m flabbergasted,” Ms McKenna said.
“It’s a very limited number of people who complained to Charles – somewhat powerful people, maybe,” she said.
Ms McKenna added that the review was currently being looked at, with a report being submitted to council in the coming weeks.
She also questioned the community consultation involved in the review.
“We’ll have a detailed response to the review then,” she said.
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spokesperson for the residents said. Burwood mayor, Cr John Faker is calling on the Planning Minister for residents to have their say. “I have written to the Minister for Planning and the Joint Regional Planning Panel calling on them to reject the planning proposal and requesting that residents are given the opportunity to present our community’s case during the review process,” says Burwood Mayor, Cr John Faker. Nearby residents have received a letter from Strathfield MP, Charles Casuscelli blaming a decision Cr Faker made “on behalf of Burwood Council” in 2011 and 2012 as the reason why Flower Power made its original proposal. “In November 2011 Mayor Faker wrote requesting NSW Government assistance rezoning Council’s Kingsbury Street Depot from light industrial to general residential. Mayor Faker was quite clear that the reason for seeking the rezoning was to enable the site to be sold off at a later time for redevelopment. It appears he has misled the community over Council’s true intention as for the long term use of this site,” Mr Casuscelli said in his letter.
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13 August 2014
Gun trafficking NO LET UP FOR crack down MAIL THEFT
WATER AGREEMENT Forty-two Sydney councils have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding between the councils and Sydney Water, committing each other to agreed timeframes, quality specifications and ongoing management practices for road and footpath restoration. The MOU aims to have restoration works completed within 90 days and repair works by a council or private contractor be undertaken on an agreed specification (including quality). A series of workshops are being conducted with the councils and Sydney Water to implement the agreements. • A software system is being developed for all participating councils to help track and monitor repair works • Increased sharing of information between councils and Sydney Water about planned works The Sydney Water Road Reserve Restoration Memorandum of Understanding will commence from the date of signing with each individual council. Media: Antonia Morrow (Minister Toole) 0419 468 235
THE Federal Government is set to bring in new legislation t arge t i ng g u n - rel ate d crimes that will implement minimum mandatory five year jail terms for illegal firearm trafficking. “The Australian Crime Commission estimates that there are 250,000 illicit ‘long arms’ and at least 10,000 illicit hand guns in Australia. Unfortunately, the people of western Sydney are all too aware of the prevalence of gun-related crime, with almost daily reports of firearms seizures, drive-by shootings and armed FREE TAX HELP robberies,” Member for Reid, Burwood Community Welfare Services are offering Craig Laundy MP said. a free tax help assistance program for those people Australia has often been who can’t afford to see an accountant or need lauded by US commentators, assistance with submitting their tax online. and indeed President Barack No area restrictions apply but the service is for Obama, for its tough gun individual simple tax only and must be for the laws, which John Howard 2013/14 financial year. brought into effect after the Port Arthur massacre. When: Tuesday afternoons Whilst the new How: Call 97441866 to book an appointment legislation targets the illegal Location: 2 Wyatt Avenue Burwood NSW firearms trade, regulations INNER WEST COUNSELLING SERVICE surrounding the ownership Face to face general counselling for individuals of firearms are in the hands over 18 years is available at Burwood Community of each state and territory. Welfare Services at 2 Wyatt Avenue, Burwood. No Following THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND DINE the Port Arthur area restrictions apply. Fees are on a sliding scale massacre in 1996, the depending on income and no one is turned away due National Firearms Agreement was made adopting common to limited finances. All counsellors are fully trained, standards across Australia for intern psychologists or social workers who give their the the possession and use of time voluntarily. firearms. Those resolutions Call 97441866 to book an appointment have subsequently been VIEW CLUB MEETING refined, and largely refer to Concord West VIEW Club will hold its Luncheon semi-automatic weapons, Meeting on Wednesday, August 27 at Burwood RSL. mandatory registration This month’s speaker will be ‘The Teapot Lady’, who for all firearms and a genuine reason for firearms will give a history on tea and also bring along some of ownership. her teapots. VIEW Club ladies help The Smith Family T h e w ay f i r e a r m s to educate children of struggling families. legislation has operated New members always welcome. historically in Australia and For enquiries call 9747 2829. continues to operate today,
HANDYMAN SERVICES
Vicki Staines from Canada reflects the constitutional by Mitchell Jordan Bay Council, along with a division of powers between representative from Burwood the C ommonwealth A RISE in mail theft and and the states. There is domestic violence has hit the Council both indicated that no express power over inner west, with crime figures more information is going out with the rates to make people firearms and ammunition for both on the increase. aware of their responsibilities to in the Commonwealth At last month’s Burwood and keep themselves safe. Constitution. Canada Bay Community Safety Credit cards and identity theft State and territory firearms Precinct Committee meeting it legislation regulate the was revealed that crime is down were listed as the cause. The police’s advice was to try and ownership, possession and overall. However, domestic prevent it, not to take care of assaults were up by nine per sale of firearms. and stealing from dwelling the symptoms after they occur. Commonwealth legislation cent (including mail theft) had risen Police admitted that they are de a ls on ly wit h t he by six per cent. Inspector James fighting an uphill battle when importation and exportation Deeley, crime manager, said that it comes to organisations that of firearms and cross-border when it came to mail theft, the send out these cards through the mail, as these cards get stolen trafficking of firearms. area was being hard hit. “This national approach Members of the meeting were and used in fraud matters. Plans for a CCTV system to illegal firearms means told of one specific incident that anyone caught in the where a woman left her keys in Breakfast Point was also illegal firearms trade will in her letterbox while she went announced at the meeting. The face mandatory minimum for a walk. She returned to find installation is a result of five new sentences of five years under the keys gone and someone had buildings and approximately 6000 new residents in the area. the new regime, sending a broken into her home. strong message that these types of crimes will no longer be tolerated,” Mr Laundy said. “Two tragic events in THE ANNUAL DAFFODIL 11am. Many local churches have Australia’s recent history Day church service to observe been notified and as in past had a significant impact on all those affected by cancer years, the service is expected to firearms laws in Australia. will again be held at St Anne’s be well attended to raise funds The first was the Port Anglican Church on Homebush for cancer charities. Arthur massacre on 28 Road on Tuesday, August 19 at April 1996 and the second was the handgun murders at the Monash University in October 2002. These events led to significant reforms for THE STRATHFIELD WEST beginners’ painting, guest both Commonwealth and Seniors Club is a friendly group speakers and social outings. Transport is provided on state and territory laws,” Mr that welcomes new members Laundy reflected. with a smile and a cuppa every request. “On July 21st, we The Commonwealth has Monday from 9am until 3pm had 35 people for a wonderful in July lunch at THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOPChristmas AND DINE also used its constitutional at Bates Street Community powers over interstate Centre in Homebush West (in Jessie’s Den in Homebush. The food and service was trade and commerce to Airey Park). fantastic,” said Pushpa. enact cross-border firearms They also offer a range of For more information call trafficking offences with a maximum penalty of 10 years activities including Tai Chi, Marlene on 9764 1037 or 0468 imprisonment or a fine of a knitting group, an exercise 390 270 or Pushpa on 9746 session, bingo, scrabble, 6633. $275 000, or both.
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NEWS
13 August 2014
15
Ashfield Councillor takes up Ambassador role for Asian Cup ASHFIELD Councillor Jeanette Wang has been appointed a Community Ambassador for the AFC Asian Cup, which Australia is hosting for the first time in January 2015. CEO of the 2015 Asian Cup Local Organising Committee Michael Brown said Ms Wang would join more than 200 other
leading Asian-Australians as Community Ambassadors for Asia’s largest sporting event. “Australia is home to people that have come from right across the Asian continent,” Mr Brown said. “We are encourag ing everyone to support the
Socceroos in January 2015, but also to support the country of their origin and to use the Asian Cup as an opportunity to celebrate their cultures.” “ We a r e a p p o i n t i n g community leaders like Jeanette Wang as Community Ambassadors for the Asian Cup and asking them to help make this event a cultural celebration for the 2.5 million people of Asian heritage living in Australia.”
to be part of an international sporting event.” The AFC Asian Cup will be the biggest football tournament Australia has ever hosted with sixteen football nations including FIFA World Cup teams like Japan, Korea and Iran
and also rising football nations, China and Iraq. Stadium attendances are expected to exceed 500,000 with a television audience exceeding 700 million across Asia and around the world.
AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015 will take place from January 9-31 in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Newcastle.
a disability between the ages of 14 and 26 years. DirtyFeet, a not-for-profit contemporary dance group run by artists, will present the workshops, supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW. “I love dance and it is a new experience for me engaging with
people and other activities,” said Melanie Magpayo, who participated in The Right Foot in 2013. “I had so much fun. It helped me socialise more.” Workshops will be held on September 13, 14, 20 and 21 from 10am-1.30pm at Bankstown Arts Centre.
The final will be held at Sydney Olympic Park.
Dance with your Right Foot
For Councillor Wang, who migrated to Australia from Beijing in 1992, the opportunity is about building relationships. “I’m very excited and happy to be an ambassador. The Asian Cup gives us an opportunity to enhance relationships through sport,” Cr Wang explained. “I’ve always been involved in sports like table tennis, basketball and played volleyball at university plus my son plays soccer for Sydney Boys High. I also act as an ambassador for the Summer Hill Cricket Club.” Cr Wang attended the Community Leaders meeting for the Asian Cup on August 11 and is planning an event in December to welcome the Chinese athletes.
Ambassador, Councillor Jeanette Wang with the coveted AFC Asian Cup.
“The Asian Cup is a great opportunity for Australians of Asian heritage to not only support football but celebrate the diverse range of cultures that are part of Australia today,” she said. “This is a rare opportunity
DirtyFeet dance workshop
FREE DANCE workshops for young people will be run by Sarah-Vyne Vassallo, who recently returned from abroad after being awarded a Winston Churchill Fellowship for excellence in integrated dance practice. The Right Foot workshops are open to people with and without
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BURWOOD SCENE
13 August 2014