MEDAL RECEIVED AFTER 80 YEARS FIRST LOOK AT EXPANDED HOSPITAL
BLACKTOWN’S BEST
This year’s Blacktown City Local Business Awards was a sensational spectacular that provided a fitting finale to the annual event. This year’s winners exchanged hugs while cheers filled the room as they made their way to the stage on Tuesday, 13th May. Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said the evening
was an exciting culmination to a successful awards program.
“The Local Business Awards recognise the vital role business people play in the lives of their communities,” he said. “The presentation evening not only sees the announcement of the category winners but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all the finalists. More inside.
Winners at this year’s Blacktown City Local Business Awards.
Blacktown City
Did you know you can divert up to 52% of your waste by separating your food and garden waste in the new green-lidded bin? What goes in the green-lidded bin?
You can now place the following items in your new food and garden organics bin:
• fruit and vegetable scraps
• meat, bones, and seafood
• eggshells and dairy products
• bread, cake, rice, and pasta
• loose tea leaves and coffee grounds
• leftovers
• grass clippings, flowers, and plants
• small branches and sticks (no longer than 100 cm and no wider than 20 cm).
Please remember: Only use the compostable liners provided by Council, certified to Australian Standard AS 4736, to collect your food waste. Regular plastic bags and other non-compostable materials cannot be used.
For more information, please visit: blacktown.nsw.gov.au/greenlid
Reconciliation Walk & Gathering
Saturday 7 June from 10 am to 1 pm
Dawson Mall, Cleeve Close, Mount Druitt
2025 marks the 28th anniversary of the Reconciliation Walk and Gathering at Dawson Mall in Mount Druitt.
There will be activities for the whole family including cultural entertainment, stalls and the annual reconciliation walk.
Riverstone Food Market
Saturday 7 June from 5 pm to 9 pm
Bambridge Lane, Riverstone
The Riverstone Food Market is back, welcoming our favourite food trucks and local entertainment, delicious food and free kids activities!
Parking is available at Riverstone Market Place.
Nursery Open Day
Saturday 14 June from 9 am to 1 pm
Have your say on our community strategic plan 2025 – 2050 and Council’s plans and budget for 2025/26
Blacktown City Council has updated its planning documents for the future wellbeing of the City.
We are seeking community feedback on the following:
• Community strategic plan 2025-2050 - Blacktown City, one community building a brighter future
• Delivery program 2025-2029 and Operational plan 2025/26 which also includes:
o Works improvement program 2025/26
o Goods and services pricing schedule 2025/26.
• Resourcing strategy 2025-2035 which includes:
o Long term financial plan 2025-2035
o Asset management strategy 2025-2035
o Workforce management strategy 2025-2029.
For more information and to make a submission visit, blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Have-Your-Say
Submissions will close on Tuesday 10 June 2025.
Exhibition points are also located at the Blacktown Administration Centre and all Council libraries.
Blacktown City Council Nursery, Kent Street, Blacktown
Nursery open days are provided for residents who can’t pick up their annual allocation (2 plants per household, per residential year) during weekdays. Please note, these are not additional plant giveaways.
Residents can collect their 2 plants per property from a selection of native and exotic species. Nursery staff will be onsite to assist residents in selecting plants that will be appropriate for their garden. Proof of residency must be shown.
Wellness by the water
Sunday 15 June from 8.30 am to 10.00 am
Nurragingy Reserve - waterfront, Colebee Centre, Knox Road, Doonside
Join us for a free waterside yoga session led by expert instructors from Dhamma Yoga, designed to inspire yogis of all skill levels.
Immerse yourself in nature and learn how we can work together to protect and conserve our local waterways.
New Blacktown breast screening clinic
THE NSW Government and BreastScreen NSW have opened a new screening clinic in Warwick Lane, Blacktown.
Located on the first of the new council building at 2 Warrick Lane, adjacent to the park and above a four-storey underground car park, the new clinic allows for easy access.
Screening for breast cancer saves lives and can be completed within 20-minute appointments enabling early detection of any breast changes.
Breast screening can detect lumps that are too small to see or feel. Modern screening machines can identify cancers as small as a grain of rice.
All radiographers at BreastScreen NSW are female and you don’t need a referral to attend. Simply phone 13 20
50 make an appointment with opening times weekdays from 9am to 4:30pm.
Only 50% of eligible women, aged from 50 to 74, have accessed the free screening
across Australia. Screening rates across Blacktown city are more dire with only 41% of eligible women; and even less for women from Hindu 39%, Arabic 36% or Mandarin 28% backgrounds.
Early detection of breast changes through screening technology is life changing and substantially increases the survival rates for people diagnosed with breast cancer.
The original clinic closed when Myer in Westpoint closed in April 2022 and was replaced by mobile vans for screening.
Stephen Bali MP, NSW Member for Blacktown, said: “Despite the presence of screening vans, the screening numbers were falling with cancer rates increasing across Blacktown City.”
“Women expressed their concern in attending a van for screening and asked for a permanent facility. We raised it with BreastScreen NSW and NSW Health Minister Ryan Park and a new permanent facility was established.”
The new modern screening facility has two state-of-the art digital mammograms, which are quicker and deliver improved imaging compared to older machines. Up to 56 tests can be performed daily and with the digital mammogram, the scan only takes 7-8 minutes. Catherine from Doonside was one of the first to check out the new facility. She said: “It is great to have a terrific facility so close to home where I was able to access screening with professional staff who put your mind at ease.”
M7 Motorway traffic changes at Rooty Hill
THERE will be changed traffic conditions along the M7 Motorway at Rooty Hill, during the King’s Birthday Long Weekend, between 8pm Saturday 7 June and 8am Monday 9 June 2025.
There will be temporary north-
bound and southbound right lane closures along the M7 Motorway near Angus Creek, Rooty Hill between Eastern Road and Woodstock Avenue for the M7 Motorway bridge concrete pour activities.
Operators of OSOM travelling under
a Notice must consult their relevant enforceable network map to confirm a suitable approved alternate route.
Class 2 vehicles will not be detoured and will remain on the M7 Motorway.
Vehicles travelling under a permit must not travel off the approved route
listed in their permit unless an updated permit is obtained from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
For the latest traffic updates across the network download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.
Premium land release coming soon
Set in one of the fastest growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master planned community of new homes, wide open spaces, exceptional new schools and expanding dining and retail precincts.
Premium land is scheduled to release soon and there’s a lot to fit every budget and lifestyle.
• Well positioned near the rapidly expanding Oran Park Town Centre
• Close proximity to award-winning parks, green spaces and waterways
• Easy build lots ranging from 300m 2 to 600m 2
Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer.
Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.
The new breast screening clinic at Blacktown.
Local businesses shine at gala event
THIS year’s Blacktown City Local Business Awards was a sensational spectacular that provided a fitting finale to the annual event.
This year’s winners exchanged hugs while cheers filled the room as they made their way to the stage on Tuesday, 13th May.
Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said the evening was an exciting culmination to a successful awards program.
“The Local Business Awards recognise the vital role business people play in the lives of their communities,” he said. “The presentation evening not only sees the announcement of the category winners but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all the finalists.
“We had a sell-out crowd that included our finalists, their families and staff, as well as our partners and local dignitaries who helped to present awards to the winners.”
Excitement filled the room as the finalists in each category were announced, complete with images on the big screen, followed by applause as the winners’ names were read out and they took to the stage to claim their trophies.
“The winners’ speeches are always heartfelt and emotional,” Mr Loe said. “This year was no exception.”
As official media partner for the Blacktown City Local Business Awards, the Blacktown News will publish a winners’ feature in our July edition, that commends all category winners from the presentation evening.
“Of course, the awards are only possibly with the ongoing support of our Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partners: Blacktown City Council, NOVA Employment, Black-
town Workers Club, and Westpoint Blacktown and Support Partners: Greater Blacktown Business Chamber, North West Business Chamber, Seven Hills Plaza, White Key Marketing, and Kings Langley Shopping Centre.
Mr Loe said, “their involvement proves their commitment to their community and the businesses that thrive there.”
Mr Loe also thanked Blacktown Workers Club for the high quality food
3,000 local families unite
WORKERS Lifestyle Group proudly hosted the GLOW Community Night at Sydney Zoo, welcoming over 3,000 local families for an unforgettable evening of lights, connection, and community strength.
This event held special significance, as many attendees were families affected by domestic and family violence, along with the volunteers and frontline workers who support them daily.
Complimentary tickets were provided to those impacted, ensuring they could enjoy a safe, inclusive and uplifting night out.
In addition to a stunning light-filled experience, GLOW became a platform for over 30 local support organisations to network and collaborate.
Among those in attendance were representatives from DV West, Harman Foundation, Top Blokes Foundation, Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre, Catholic Care, Alice’s Support Services, Graces Place, Saints Care, and SydWest Multicultural Services.
Support from local government added weight to the night’s purpose, with Blacktown Mayor Brad Bunting joining the evening in support of strengthening local responses to domestic and family violence.
Blacktown recorded over 2,000 domestic violence-related assault charges in 2024 alone, a sobering
Tand service it provided. “Thanks to them it was a five-star occasion,” he said.
“I would also like to acknowledge the remarkable talent who provided entertainment on the evening and our excellent Chris Ninni who kept the evening flowing smoothly.”
Businesses can register for the 2026 Local Business Awards at www.thebusinessawards. com.au
reminder of the urgent need for awareness, services, and community engagement.
Events like GLOW bring families together and — raise essential funds and awareness for the services working on the frontlines of this crisis.
Workers Lifestyle Group has long been a leader in supporting families impacted by domestic and family violence. The Group applauds the Fair Work Commission for mandating 10 days of paid domestic and family violence leave, effective from February 1 this year.
Workers Lifestyle Group implemented similar support well ahead of the national policy. In 2013, it introduced three days of Safe Family Support Leave, increasing this to 10 full days in 2017 — setting a benchmark in the industry.
Since 2021, Workers Lifestyle Group has committed $500,000 over five years to fund local domestic violence support services including:
• Blacktown Women’s and Girls’ Health Centre.
• Harman Foundation.
• Youth Insearch Foundation.
• Learning Links (Resilient Kids Program).
• Indian Crisis & Support Agency.
“We’ve always believed in standing with our staff and our community through both policy and action,” said Workers Lifestyle Group CEO Morgan Stewart
“But we also recognise that the work is far from over. That’s why we’ve committed half a million dollars to supporting frontline services, and why we continue hosting initiatives like GLOW to connect, uplift, and drive change.”
Workers Lifestyle Group has also committed $500,000 to a five-year campaign in partnership with Western Sydney Diabetes, further demonstrating its dedication to community health and wellbeing.
The GLOW event was a shining example of how community, compassion, and collaboration can come together to create something truly meaningful. Workers Lifestyle Group remains committed to supporting its people, members, and community through both proactive initiatives and long-term investment in change.
Number of NSW smokers is falling
HE number of people in NSW who smoke cigarettes has fallen to its lowest level on record according to new data published by NSW Health this World No Tobacco Day.
The 2024 Population Health Survey showed around only one in 10 adults (11 per cent) smoked daily or occasionally, a decline from 14 per cent in 2015.
to quit smoking and vaping to improve their health and quality of life.
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death and the second highest contributor to the burden of disease in Australia. This World No Tobacco Day, NSW Health is encouraging people
Data from Cancer Institute NSW shows people in NSW are seeking support to quit smoking and vaping, with more than 27,000 calls supported by telephone information and counselling service Quitline
in the past 12 months. More than 15,000 of these calls related to smoking and 5,000 calls were about vaping. While smoking rates have declined, rates of vaping remain high, with people aged 16-24 years having the highest rate of vaping of any age group (20 per cent).
Winners from this year’s Blacktown City Local Busines Awards.
VIPs at the event.
MEDAL PRESENTATION
80 YEARS LATER World War II veteran finally recognised
TOONGABBIE’S Henry
(Harry) Neal recently celebrated his 100th birthday.
However, celebrations started before his birthday as the 99-year-old Harry received his World War Two service medal, 80 years after he left the Army.
Harry’s son Jim found his father’s military paperwork
in a box when packing and moving, prior to selling his father’s house recently and was shocked to discover that his father had served on the Homefront.
Jim reached out to Ron Moore of the 2/2nd Australian Infantry Battalion descendants’ group who assisted with the delivery of Harry’s service
medal, fast tracked by the Department of Defence.
“Dad never told me he’d served” said Jim “It was a shock to us all”.
A big crowd assembled at Toongabbie Terrace Care Community to congratulate their mate Harry, as he was presented with his service medal by Bill Owen, also a veteran, and Chairperson of the Blacktown Spartans Football Club.
Harry Neal accepted his medal along with a souvenir medallion commemorating Kokoda, which was a gift to him from the 2/2nd Battalion group.
“I’m not special, I’m the same as everyone else in this room who loves our country” said Mr. Neal “I thank you all for this nice thing you have done for me today”
Mr Neal thanked everyone for their efforts, including Channel Nine’s Mark Burrows who dropped in with a cameraman to make sure more could share his story later in the day.
Supporters gather at Harry’s medal presentation.
WSU IS AT THE CROSSROADS
University financial crisis hits home
WESTERN Sydney University (WSU) is under siege from staff, students, unions, civic leaders and residents of Blacktown who are calling for more transparency regarding the future of Nirimba campus and the true nature of WSU finances.
Stephen Bali MP, NSW Member for Blacktown, said” “More is expected from our academic institutions that teach governance, integrity and financial management who are held up as pillars of our society rather than the spin or platitudes that they seem to be dishing out.”
WSU Vice Chancellor Williams is on record as saying: “Our worsening budget position means that Western will have insufficient revenue to cover our 2026 salary and other costs.”
Previously, the university announced over 400 job cuts as well as the closure of the Nirimba campus.
Community Public Sector Union Acting Branch Secretary Troy Wright said: “We really must question the financial governance of the leadership team.”
Vince Caughley, National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) NSW Secretary said the NTEU will ensure all staff receive their full entitlements.
How does a university teaching and researching in financial management
and re-engineering business processes to meet the challenges of a changing and complex environment find itself in financial chaos?
Publicly available data paints an interesting picture. Student numbers have steadily grown since 2010 and over the past 12 years from 40,257 (2012) to a high of 49,506 (2019) and recently settling to 47,197 which is significantly above the 14-year average of 44,856.
There is no evidence to support the university’s assertion that there has been a significant drop off in student
numbers.
The WSU Vice-Chancellor has also stated a substantial deterioration in the financial position. The past two years have resulted in losses, particularly in 2023 with a loss of $142.M but this can be offset by the profit announced in 2021 of $143.5M.
WSU last recorded loss was in 2004 and for 17 consecutive years delivered approximately $794M in profit. The idea for a not-for-profit institution is to build its financial reserves to deal with occasional years where losses are made.
Expenditures over the five years (2018-2022) averaged at $850M with the last reported year the expenditure escalated to $1.1B.
The blowout of approximately $250M can be attributed to a one-off asset write downs $60M; increases in borrowing costs $30M, depreciation $22M; and a $23M write off in a dispute with the Australian Tax Office.
Mr Bail said management needs to be held accountable for their actions as student numbers are falling (3%), the wages bill has increased by $45M (9%) and general expenses has substantially increase by $54M (20%).
“VC Prof George Williams cannot be blamed for the past questionable management decisions that has created the current financial chaos at the university, but he does own the proposed solutions. The careless mass sackings of staff and shutting down Nirimba campus will create an adverse reaction of our university as students will seek to go elsewhere.
“WSU is at the crossroads, they need to reconnect with the West or they will collapse and other universities will carve up Western Sydney for their profits. Western Sydney should not be seen as a cash cow but a land of opportunity to harness the energy to drive our society forward.”
ZEST Awards are Western Sydney’s premier platform for recognising and celebrating the achievements of the region’s community sector.
Venue
WEXPO 2025 will be hosted at Hall 5A at S
Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Austr For Exhibitors
Exhibitor Bump In: Tuesday 21st Oct – 3-5pm
Exhibitor Bump out: Thursday 23rd – 9am Workshops
Commencing at 9am and running ever y h with a 30-minute break in between Details announced soon.
Workshops require registration at ww w.wexpo.com.au
Event opens to the public at 8am, concludes 6pm.
Business
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FIRST LOOK AT EXPANDED HOSPITAL
60 more beds at Mt Druitt, Blacktown
THE Mount Druitt community is being provided with their first look at plans for the expanded Mount Druitt Hospital.
The NSW Government is investing $120M in the upgrade of Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals to provide expanded and contemporary acute medical and surgical capacity.
The project will include 60 additional beds across Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
The plans show the area for the planned upgrades, which will deliver modern health care facilities to service one of the country’s fastest-growing communities.
A mix of new and refurbished clinical areas and support spaces will form part of the redevelopment.
Welcoming and culturally inclusive spaces for consumers, staff, and visitors will be central to the planning and design process.
Staff, stakeholders, and the community will continue to be consulted as the project progresses.
Planning and design will continue throughout 2025, with construction timeframes to be finalised as part of planning and once a builder has been appointed.
Construction work will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption to clinical services, which will remain operational throughout the redevelopment.
The project will build on the $700M expansion of Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals completed in 2020 which has expanded capacity at both hospitals.
This included a new Emergency Department (ED), cancer centre, and inpatient facilities at Blacktown Hospital and additional renal dialysis and inpatient facilities at Mount Druitt Hospital.
The redevelopment is being delivered by Health
Infrastructure and Western Sydney Local Health District.
This redevelopment is part of the NSW Government’s delivery of more than $3B in hospital infrastructure across western Sydney, including:
• $1.3B for the New Bankstown Hospital.
• $550M for the Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment.
• $910M for the new Rouse Hill Hospital.
• $120M for additional treatment spaces for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
• $350M for the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment.
Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla said;
“I’m delighted to see continued investment in Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals to support our growing area. I, along with the community look forward to seeing this project take shape as the planning and design process progresses. “The Blacktown and Mount Druitt project is estimated to support approximately 200 direct jobs with the potential for supporting hundreds of indirect jobs.”
Graeme Loy, Chief Executive, Western Sydney Local Health District said the expansion will strengthen the services available to the people of Mount Druitt making a more specialised level of care available to the local community.
Drone view of Mt Druitt Hospital showing the area at far right to be redeveloped.
New food and garden waste service
BRAD BUNTING
IAM pleased to say the biggest waste service change in Blacktown City in more than 30 years is rolling out to eligible households from June.
Our community told us it was looking forward to the changes, which include a food and garden waste bin, and helping Blacktown City be more sustainable.
If you need help using the new service, Council is running an online chat on its website to make asking questions and receiving answers more convenient.
The online chat is available Monday to Friday, from 3.30 pm to 7.30 pm, via blacktown.nsw.gov.au/waste.
You can also find out more about waste service changes by calling our Customer Service Centre on 5300 6000, Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 4.30 pm.
New pools for Blacktown Aquatic Centre
I recently announced the biggest revamp for Blacktown Aquatic Centre in its 64-year history.
Council will provide a new indoor 50m pool, a
new indoor 25m learn to swim pool, and an upgrade of the outdoor 50m pool as part of wide-ranging improvements.
There will also be an extended splashpad that lets children safely enjoy the water, upgraded fitness rooms, a new caf? and foyer, inclusive amenities and more.
Work is anticipated to begin in 2026 and will take about 18 months.
BCouncil also recently announced the biggest upgrade in Mount Druitt Swimming Centre’s 50-year history, so it’s exciting times for swimmers.
The great news is these projects are not using ratepayer funds, as they have been funded by the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program.
You can find more about these upgrades on Council’s website.
Congratulations to our re-elected federal MPs
I was pleased to see our community rewarded our hardworking MPs in the federal election results.
Well done to the Member for McMahon Chris Bowen, the Member for Parramatta Andrew Charlton, the Member for Chifley Ed Husic and the Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland.
Council has a great relationship with our federal MPs and I know that together we can achieve more results for our community.
Brad Bunting is Mayor of Blacktown City. www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au
Council seeks partners for big projects
LACKTOWN City Council is calling on the construction industry to help deliver more than $600M in transformative infrastructure, with a formal Request for Tender (RFT) now open to establish a panel of qualified contractors.
The RFT, Contract C9/2025, will create a panel of Tier 1, Tier 2, and specialist construction partners to deliver
a suite of major civic and community infrastructure projects across the city over the next five years.
Mayor Brad Bunting said the program represents one of the most ambitious and well-prepared civic infrastructure agendas in Australia. Seven of the projects Council has funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants
Program.
Projects to be delivered include:
• A new PCYC and community hub at Mount Druitt.
• The revitalisation of Mount Druitt Town Centre’s public domain.
• Renewed aquatic centres at Blacktown and Mount Druitt.
• A First Nations Cultural Hub.
• The Seven Hills Community Re-
source Hub.
• An upgraded Blacktown Arts Centre.
• A new Civic Centre in the Blacktown CBD (pending Council decisions).
• A new Civic Office at Rooty Hill (pending Council decisions).
The RFT will close at 3.00pm on Wednesday, June 18 2025.
WE ARE A LOCAL CHILDRENS CHARITY SYDNEY
The Kids West is only one of the many children's charities in Australia. Its mission is to raise money for the childrens hospital fund, delivering much-needed equipment to the hospitals of western Sydney Over the course of 30+ years, Kids West has raised in excess of $7.2m and is one of the best Australian charities to suppor t dedicated countless hours to assisting a large number of organisations in improving the health and wellbeing of children throughout Western Sydney. Below are some of the other fantastic childrens charities Australia has in place As with any children's charity, it's best to do your research. Unfor tunately, there are organisations out there that take advantage of well-meaning souls and misappropriate funds Some organisations, as charitable as their intentions may be, cost a lot to run so your donations may not actually get to where you're intending them to go.
What to Consider When Making a Childrens Hospital Donation
Research the charity thoroughly BEFORE getting out your chequebook. (ACNC) is the national regulator of charities. The Australian Charities and Not For Pro t Commission
They oversee over 58,000 registered charities in Australia. We highly recommend checking out their charity register to see if the group you're looking to suppor t is approved to fundraise Check to see what the goals of the charity are Make sure they're transparent – they should be able to show you where the money goes. Reviewing their annual repor t should help you. It should be on their website. w w w.kidswest.org.au
Artist impression of the new Aquatic Centre.
WINTER WITH THE WHALES
Book a two-night stay at Paradise Resort Gold Coast between June and September and embark on a breathtaking whale watching cruise, included for every guest.
Witness the majestic giants of the ocean in their natural habitat, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary adventure –book your package today!
Visit: paradiseresort.com.au/special-offers/winterwhales-2025
A two-night package starts from just $679 per family and includes: 1 x Whale Watching Cruise with Sea World Cruises for every guest
✔ Continental Buffet Breakfast daily in Penguins Restaurant
✔ Unlimited use of the lagoon pool & waterpark
✔ A range of daily entertainment and activities
bizarre claims made for tax deductions
AS tax time nears, Chartered Accountants ANZ (CA ANZ) surveyed 180 tax professionals to uncover clients’ most questionable claims. Responses included salon haircuts justified by “hair growing during business hours,” gym memberships for DIY renovations, and Pilates machines for sore backs. Other dubious deductions involved tropical holidays, yachts, pet expenses, pools, school fees, and even engagement rings. CA ANZ warns Australians to avoid pushing boundaries, as the ATO won’t be amused by fraudulent or exaggerated claims.
Reality about coward-punch offenders
AMONASH-led study analysed 287 Coward Punch convictions (1990–2020), revealing most offenders were young males, with 65% of assaults in pub -
lic between 6 pm–6 am. NSW and Victoria saw 61% of cases, and 62% of offenders received prison terms. Alcohol was involved in 39% of cases. Researchers urge targeted prevention strategies, while campaigner Danny Green supports strong language to deter attacks. Legal responses vary, with specific laws in five states since 2008.
SuperBuys Warehouse is a proudly family-owned local business that has been serving our community since 2008. Our mission is simple: to provide customers with the lowest possible prices on trusted, everyday household brands.
We specialize in 100% authentic products, offering access to over 200 well-known brands across a wide range of categories. This allows us to consistently deliver unbeatable value – often surpassing the prices of larger, more established retailers. Our goal is to bring top-quality products to your doorstep quickly, efficiently, and affordably.
Research shows nurses are unprepared
NEW research from Charles Darwin University reveals Australian nurses are underprepared for disasters, despite responding to hundreds of events since 2019—roughly one every 10 days. Lead author Angela Sheedy says nurses, though highly skilled, often react rather than proactively manage crises like pandemics, terror attacks, or environmental contamination. With climate change and other modern risks increasing disaster frequency, Sheedy calls for mandatory all-hazards training in nursing education to strengthen resilience and improve community outcomes during emergencies.
Family opposes gender fluid education
FAMILY First has pledged to oppose what it calls “sexual and gender-fluid indoctrination” in childcare if elected in upcoming state elections. This follows reports of an Adelaide childcare centre introducing LGBTIQA+ topics to toddlers during IDAHOBIT. Family First argues such discussions should be left to parents and claims early education is being influenced by harmful ideology. The party is campaigning to protect parental rights, preserve childhood innocence, and challenge what it views as political overreach in the education system.
Pain relief eased by emotional processing
AUNSW and NeuRA study has found that improving emotional processing can significantly reduce chronic pain. The trial, led by Professor Sylvia Gustin and Dr Nell Norman-Nott, introduced a new eHealth therapy called Pain and Emotion Therapy. Delivered online to 89 participants, it helped reduce pain intensity by 10 points on a 100-point scale. The eight-session program teaches emotional regulation, with results showing lasting benefits. Researchers say this approach may revolutionise chronic pain treatment by targeting emotional health.
Rough sleeping numbers are bomming
NSW’s annual street count recorded 2,192 rough sleepers, up 8% from 2024. The largest increases were seen in Sydney, Inverell, Nambucca, Sutherland Shire, and Parramatta. Homelessness NSW warns services are overwhelming and unable to help all in need. CEO Dominique Rowe urges urgent investment in social housing and increased funding for support services. Nearly 68,000 people sought help last year, with many turned away, while over 64,000 households remain on the social housing waitlist.
Mon - Fri 9:30AM to 5 PM | Sat 9:30AM to 5 PM, CLOSE Sunday & Public Holidays
At SuperBuys Warehouse, outstanding customer service is at the core of everything we do. We’re dedicated to putting our customers first –ensuring you get exactly what you need at the best possible price, while also recognizing and rewarding the loyalty of our regular shoppers.
with Michelle Rowland
BUILDING A STRONGER EDUCATION SYSTEM Record investment in schools
MICHELLE ROWLAND
EDUCATION creates opportunity. It is fundamental to the jobs, productivity and prosperity of Australia’s future.
Every child has a right to a high-quality, accessible and affordable education regardless of their background or where they live.
The Albanese and Minns Labor governments are working together to build a stronger education system, with a focus on North West Sydney.
For more than a decade, families and students in our fast-growing region were ignored by the former NSW government. This is changing under Labor.
Labor is making record investments in public education, building new worldclass schools across Australia – and locally, in places like Grantham Farm.
The new primary school and co-located preschool announced by the Minns Government will support local families for generations to come.
This latest educational investment adds to the new and upgraded schools already being delivered in Tallawong, Box Hill, Rouse Hill, The Ponds and surrounds.
From early childhood learning, through to higher education, vocational skills and training, Labor is giving peo-
ple the strongest foundation for success.
The Albanese Government is building a universal early childhood education system where access to Child Care Subsidy is guaranteed, care is affordable, and workers are renumerated fairly.
Our Cheaper Child Care reforms have saved families around $4,400 on average and are giving parents and carers more choice to work or study to
earn more.
Fee-free TAFE places are skilling-up our future workforce and our HECS relief program will cut student debt by a further 20 per cent.
Delivering new schools and forward-looking meaningful educational policies happens when good Labor governments work together to build a better future for all.
Only Labor will ensure families in North West Sydney get access to worldclass education facilities – locally – that they want and deserve.
Michelle Rowland MP is the Federal Member for Greenway and Minister for Communications. If you need assistance with any Federal issue, you can contact Michelle by phone on 02 9671 4780 or by email at Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au
Artsist impression of the new Rouse Hill School.
HIDDEN GEMS OF BLACKTOWN SHOWGROUND
Our produce and community spirit
LES
TOD, BLACKTOWN NEWS HISTORY
WRITER
THE first Agricultural Show on Blacktown Showground was held in 1922. Prior to that, there had been a show at the School of Arts in 1920 on the Inglis saleyards in 1921.
In those times Blacktown was an area of market gardens, poultry and beef, wine, and known as the breadbasket of Sydney. Agricultural shows were very important events, showcasing an area’s produce and community spirit.
A typical Blacktown Show in those days included preserves, needlework, dogs, pigeons, poultry, caged birds, vegetables, fruit, fine arts, schoolwork, honey, flowers, trotting, wood chipping, side shows, rides, catering, horses and cattle, all ending with the Grand Parade. Sometimes there were also greasy pig catching.
Every year a Show Ball was held in the Blacktown School of Arts.
The humble little Testa Pavilion, also known as the Rotary Pavilion, was built by Aventino Testa in 1948, an Italian immigrant who lived in Third Avenue and had his own winery there.
He built the pavilion by hand, mostly by himself, using concrete blocks made in Lithgow and rendering them with bull ant nest gravel to give it the coarse exterior appearance it has today, making it quite unique.
He also built the Hicks Memorial Gates, which still stand near Richmond Road and were the original entrance to the Showground. Aventino was a bricklayer and could often be seen pedaling his bricks around Blacktown on his bicycle.
Hard working contributor
The Hicks Memorial Gates were built in 1940 as a tribute to the long serving president of the Agricultural Society, Joseph Hicks, who had passed away in 1939. Joseph’s wife, Ethel, also a hard-working contributor to the Society and the Show, was given life membership.
(This writer has submitted an application to Council to have both protected on the Blacktown Local Environment Plan, as they are the oldest remaining structures in the Showground precinct.)
The plant nursery sits on land owned by Council. It was originally owned by a German, Dr W A Westrum, who left Australia during World War 1 to help his motherland but never returned. His land was then seized as he was declared an enemy alien by the Commonwealth Government. The land was later sold to Council, which uses it as a plant nursery.
The gatekeeper’s cottage, previously known as Smith’s Cottage, was brought from a site in Campbell Street, said to be in the late 1950s when Bowman Hall was built there. In recent years it has been completely altered, although the timber frame was retained.
The original poultry pavilion was burnt down in 1949 and replaced by the building on the site today. For several years it bore a sign Blue Chequers, but the sign had come from an old dance hall in Marcel Crescent and gave the wrong impression that the hall had come from there also.
Over the years Blacktown City Council has added to the site, although the Showground ring remains Crown Land. The six Arts and Crafts huts were former military buildings, acquired by
Council from the army camp at Wallgrove, and shifted to the Showground in 1976. They were then refurbished and allocated to local community groups, which still occupy them today.
The Imperial Club, also known as the Band Hall, was built in 1969 and used also as a function room. It was located just off Richmond Road, where the car park is today. Many Blacktown people would remember attending weddings in the hall, which was demolished in 2015.
In November 1986 Pope John Paul II flew into the Showground by helicopter to visit the EPT site at Seven Hills. A memorial garden was built, just off Richmond Road, known as The Pope’s Garden, in memorial. Unfortunately, the plaque installed their names the wrong Pope, IE, Pope John II, as having visited the Showground.
First COVID testing station
Not much is known about the totem poles erected outside the huts. They were built in 1980, of clay taken from the PGH quarry, which is today the site of the suburb of Woodcroft.
Nobody would want to remember the Covid-19 testing station, which was added in late 2020 when the epidemic was raging and removed a few years later.
So many wonderful and community minded people have helped to make the Showground over the years, too many to name here, but Joseph and Ethel Hicks, Aventino Testa, Arthur Francis, Beryl and David Luck, Bernie Gallen and Jim Simpson worked tirelessly to make it what it is today.
The Showground and Francis Park have a significant cultural and social history that spans almost 200 years between them. In that history is a microcosm of the growth and development of Blacktown itself. Its childhood associations are an important part of our cultural memories.
Apart from sporting activities and agricultural shows, both the showground and park have both been used by local communities and will continue to do so in the future. Australians, British, European, Indian, New Zealand, Indigenous, all have been brought together in this place by the one sense of community and culture.
It is truly a multicultural place, a place of peace and tranquillity, and a place of shared community spirit and pride.
Footnote: The more detailed history of Francis Park and Blacktown Showground, researched by Lyn and Les Tod, can be read on-line on Blacktown Memories website.
1 What mountain range in NSW was formerly named the Carmarthen Hills?
2 Which artist was known for his ‘blue’ and ‘rose’ periods of work? 3 Into which body of water does the Dnieper River flow?
4 In which city would you find Red Square?
5 The Orange Free State is a former sovereign country within which modern nation?
6 In the famous performance company the Blue Man Group, how many ‘blue men’ appear on stage at one time?
7 Which musician made the 1984 album Purple Rain?
8 In which US state would you find Ivy League university Brown University?
9 Actor Betty White (pictured) is famous for playing Rose in which US sitcom?
10 Morganite is a gemstone of what colour?
(4) 3 Covering (4)
Be Prepared
in Western Sydney for Winter Illness
Western Sydney could be facing a challenging winter with COVID-19, influzena and other respiratory illnesses already on the rise.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent winter illness like COVID-19 and influenza.
More about the Flu Shot
The influenza vaccines are free under the National Immunisation Program for:
9 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
9 Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
9 Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
9 People aged 65 years or over
9 People aged 6 months or over who have medical conditions that mean they have a higher risk of getting serious disease:
- cardiac disease
- chronic respiratory conditions
- immunocompromising conditions
- haematological disorders
- chronic metabolic disorder
- chronic kidney disease
- chronic neurological condition
- long term aspirin therapy in children aged 5 to 10 years.
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
Go
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: THE FINAL RECKONING REVIEW
One again Tom Cruise saves the day
JACOB RICHARDSON
OVERLY long and a little messy, this final Mission Impossible is saved by the wild stunts and Tom Cruise’s irrepressible charm.
Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) must track down the Sevastopol submarine to get the source code to destroy the villainous AI called the Entity, before the world’s nuclear missiles are all fired indiscriminately.
Mission Impossible is always a pretty confusing outing, but The Final Reckoning may just be the most inaccessible yet. Laden with nearly a full hour of exposition up front (not counting the 2 hr plus lead in film Dead Reckoning, which this one continues the story of), to say that this movie has pacing issues is a gross understatement.
It also has undoubtedly the dullest villain of the entire series. There is no pizazz or interest in Gabriel, and Esai Morales plays him vastly OTT. Couple that with the Entity, a
vague rehash of other, better done AI villains in an age where this type of spectre feels old hat, and you have a ‘villain’ that cannot stack up to say, Sean Harris’ Solomon Lane, or Philip Seymour Hoffman’s Owen Davian. It makes for a pretty lacklustre affair. Then there are the side characters, who here feel too numerous and undercooked to
truly deliver anything compelling - and none of whom stack up to some of the series' prior elements. Those who have been here across more than just one outing feel strong, but the newcomers struggle to find their feet. Couple this with a swathe of plot points that appear and disappear with no explanation (why is Ving Rhames in a hospital bed?),
and you have a film that feels like a bit of a misfire.
Oh, and let’s not forget the cinematography, which is so close up and consistently rotating as to give you a bit of nausea.
The saving grace is what has always saved this franchise - Tom Cruise. He once again brings a vitality and life to Ethan Hunt that really cannot
be equaled. When he breaks into a full sprint to catch a plane, you believe he can do so; when he feels defeated, or successful, you do too.
And his stunt work is unrivalled. The stunt team here set up a few set pieces that vastly eclipse what was done in Dead Reckoning, and more importantly do so in a way that makes them feel EXTREMELY real. The sub sequence, and the plane sequence, have the ring of authenticity that so much stunt work in Hollywood these days doesn’t, and frankly it takes what could have been a complete failure of a film, and elevates it into a tense, heart pounding, emotional affair that will have you gripping the edge of your seat. That’s the sort of thing a great stunt team and a good leading man can do, and here it shows in spades.
The Final Reckoning is a fitting outro for this franchise and this character, once again having him shine in the foreground while you forget about the background. The stunts really suck you in - some of the best in the series.
Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning.
with Emma Wilson
Cosmopolitan stay in Sydney’s fastest growing city
BY JANE KINKADE
LUXURYstays, rich history, and world-class dining await in Sydney’s vibrant second CBD staying at the Skye Suites Hotel. Our base was a stylish two-bedroom apartment, offering all the comforts of modern luxury. Overlooking a stunning pool, spa, and inviting outdoor living space, the suite featured a full kitchen and laundry, perfect for longer stays or family getaways. High-end art books and thoughtfully curated magazines brought a cosmopolitan flair to the living areas, elevating the already polished vibe to the space. An Oasis in the City The pool area is a true highlight. Multiple lounge nooks tucked
Paway among manicured gardens, create private retreats for guests. The hotel is a five-minute stroll from the sprawling Westfield shopping centre, anchoring it firmly within Parramatta’s rapidly developing luxury precinct.
A Window into the Past
Located underneath Skye Suites is the Philip Ruddock Heritage Centre. During the site's development, workers unearthed remnants of a convict-era settlement, including the foundation of a historic pub and huts dating back to the early colonial days. Instead of bulldozing this archaeological treasure, the developers worked alongside local historians to preserve a respectful nod to Parramatta’s layered history and offer guests a tangible connection to Australia's colonial roots, right within the comfort of a luxury hotel. Don’t miss a visit.
A Night to Remember at Nick and Nora’s
This glamorous speakeasy-style bar perched on the hotel’s top floor.
A Dog-Friendly stay at Potts Point
ERCHED on the corner of the CBD, next door to the famous red and white striped Coke Sign is Hotel Indigo. This groovy refurbed hotel (2023), decorated in neon and entertainment themes is an easy stay to explore the local area, which is a perfect mix of residential townhouses and boutiques and the vibrant main strip of the Cross. Rooms are cool and decor in-keeping with the entertainment vibe. If you haven’t visited the Cross in a while, head to Kings Cross Hotel for
a drink, you’ll find a lovely, gentrified pub space filled with university students and young adults playing pool and drinking cocktails.
June Deal
Hotel Indigo has a NOMO (Night On My Own) package, available until 30 June. They encourage guests to ‘embrace me-time and be taken care of. The package includes breakfast and bubbles in bed and a 4pm late checkout (subject to availability), as well as
complimentary breakfast and Hydrogel Face Mask from Loops Beauty. Find out more at www.hotelindigo.com
Luc San Restaurant
Luke Mangan, the popular celebrity chef opened a French and Japanese casual restaurant adjacent to Hotel Indigo and the food is de-LISH. Try pork, sansho, apple and ginger skewers or chicken skewers with yuzu cream for starters. For mains share Market fish sashimi, Brooklyn Valley Sirloin
Channeling the elegance of the roaring 1920s, the venue offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching from Sydney’s skyline to the leafy Hills district beyond. Breakfast with a Twist Breakfast at The Shed, located right next to the hotel entrance, offered an equally satisfying experience. Middle Eastern influences subtly infused the menu, with hearty and healthy options to suit every palate. Feast at MISC. Located at the edge of Parramatta Park and surrounded by towering gum trees, MISC. evoked memories of Central Park’s Tavern on the Green with a distinctly Australian twist. The menu celebrated Parramatta’s multicultural soul, drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern and modern Australian cuisines.
with charred cabbage and tempura enoki. Do not miss the Yuzu and Chilli margarita - oh my! Banquet menu available. Corner Pennys Lane & Kings Cross Road, Potts Point info@luc-san. com.au.
Brooklyn Boy Bagels, Surry Hills
BY DAVE HAGAN
BATTLING torrential rain and tricky parking on Reservoir Street, we made it to Brooklyn Boy Bagels in Surry Hills around 8am to sample the New York style bagels, something totally foreign to me. The warm welcome from the staff instantly set a great tone. The menu was extensive but not overdone and amongst numerous great choices like Hoboken (hot sopressata, artichoke and capsicum), Pastrami Rueben (Swiss cheese sauerkraut and mustard) I ordered
the Big Benny bagel, stacked with two perfectly cooked sunny-side-up eggs, avocado, rocket, and a delicious hollandaise sauce. My partner went for the blueberry bagel with cream cheese, and we both got coffees—hot, strong, and served up fast. The bagels were standout, clearly boiled in true Brooklyn style, with a unique texture and flavour that felt traditional. Flavour was very different to what I’m accustomed to. Everything was spot-on, from efficient service to tasty food. I’d swing by again particularly as I love to try a couple of the other combinations. 74 Reservoir St Surry Hills. www.brooklynboy.com.au.
BY DAVE HAGAN
THE Park Regis City Centre hotel’s central location, directly opposite the new Gadigal train station makes access surprisingly easy and is a great spot to enjoy Vivid. The undercover parking is a major asset, allowing for a dry and seamless check-in and the front desk team has a warm, efficient manner with helpful local dining recommendations. Our room exceeded expectations—spacious and well laid out, featuring a luxurious oversized bed, a second lounge area with a sofa bed and extra tv. We didn’t experience the rooftop pool, though it appeared stunning, with panoramic views across Sydney. Vivid ends June 14th don’t miss out. Words: Dave Hagan.
To
parkregiscitycentre.com.au
Divide 8 Pizzeria
WORKING in St Leonards?
You’re in luck because Divide 8 Pizzeria has landed.
The newest project of Peter Augoustis, former director of Crust, former co-owner of Zeus Street Greek and current owner of Li’l Darlin and Jon Paul Partyka, former General Manager of Crust, offers super fresh ingredients and an extensive range of pizza and salad options to choose from and delicious
desserts. This is the pizzeria’s fourth location after Bronte, Gymea & Stanmore. Dine in, the pizzeria is cheerful and spacious with BYO licensing or take away. Divide 8 has ‘Dinner Sorted’ packages (any 2 common classic vegetarian or cheese ranges plus garlic bread and brownie bites) or ‘Feed Me Feast’ (the above PLUS chicken wings). Call ahead for pick up 02 8359 1910 Find them at 1/48 Albany St, St Leonards NSW 2065.
with Emma Wilson
Visit Nara, Japan’s ancient capital
FLY directly into Osaka International Airport and in under an hour by train, bus or taxi you’ll be in the ancient capital city of Nara. This was Japan’s first capital city (710 AD794 AD) and a hub for Buddhism. An important historical time when lots of great temples and structures were built and you can still see some standing today. Nara has 8 UNESCO-listed sites (protected due to cultural significance) and deer roam freely in the temple grounds, it’s very cool to see and it’s something quite rare to experience.
Top 5 things to see and do in Nara
1. Visit Todai-ji Temple & the Great Buddha This is the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue and the scale of timber gates and intricate architecture is incredible -it’s a must-see.
2. Nara Park Stroll around the grounds; hand feed the deer and enjoy the scenery. Meet cute baby deer between June to August when the mothers give birth.
3. Kasuga Taisha Shrine Known for thousands of bronze and stone lanterns, this shrine is set in the forest and is a photogenic spot.
4. Naramachi District Wander around this charming old merchant district’s narrow lanes, traditional wooden townhouses, shops, and caf?s.
5. Art at the Nara National Museum Enjoy this impressive collection of art, including sculptures and ceremonial objects.
Novotel Nara is your base to explore Nara
Brand new in September 2024, this is a hotel you may not want to leave, with its thoughtful focus on wellness and relaxation. Explore this hotel’s social hubs, separate areas that encourage guests to gather and relax. The social lounge bar is a welcoming spot for a cocktail or sink into a lounge and read one of the many lovely art or culture books available to guests. You will know you are in Nara, with aspects of Nara’s locality used decoratively such as ink brushes, green tea or Buddhist paintings, wall hangings and motifs.
Slow food is important here and Novotel Nara sources local suppliers for food ingredients and has its very own
pizza oven bringing out sizzling, fresh pizzas for dinner in Trattoria Ponte Nara (restaurant) with local Nara plum sake and beer available. Relax in the mineral-rich onsen baths, after using the equipment in the fitness centre (open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) followed by a session in the massage chairs - you might fall asleep you’ll be so relaxed!
Family Friendly
This exceptional hotel has 14 different room types that can fit from two to five guests, great news for travelling families. There is no need to leave the hotel for breakfast, lunch or dinner with the all-day dining offerings transforming from functional buffet breakfast, including excellent quality coffee to lunch and dinner. Note: the General Manager lived in New Zealand so he understands exactly what is important to foreign travellers - and good quality coffee is numero uno in the mornings.
Business travel
This is the perfect hotel for a conference or business travel with meeting facilities and plenty of separate hubs to meet and share ideas, including a lovely work lounge with couches and benches away from leisure travellers hubs. Thoughtfully created business touches include ‘telephone box’ private spaces to make business phone calls, an executive lounge on the 8th floor with its own cocktail hour, food and coffee and private booths for drinks and socialising and executive suite hotel rooms.
Rooftop City Views
What a way to end a conference, wedding or meeting watching the sun go down over this ancient capital from the outdoor rooftop terrace bar. Overlooking Nara city, including Todai Temple, this incredible place to enjoy a drink is also accessible if you’re staying on the executive level. With access to the executive lounge, you can enjoy exclusive drinks and food including barista made coffee.
Travelling in early April? Enjoy a spectacular explosion of colour as cherry blossoms dotted along the Saho river alongside the hotel burst into life. Visit www.novotelnara. com for more information or book your stay through all.accor.com
with Emma Wilson
Pan Pacific Melbourne: My pick for when next in town
BY EMMA WILSON, TRAVEL EDITOR
IF you are a savvy traveller and have ‘seen them all’, you have not experienced Pan Pacific Melbourne. The charm of this sophisticated city stay is the incredible city vista overlooking the Yarra River meandering through the city below.
Whether it’s the brilliant night gazing or sipping a coffee by the window, these oversized windows feel as indulgent as they are expansive, with night views of neon lights on skyscrapers, ferris wheels and festoon lights on cafes and eateries along the water. The artwork from the wow-factor warm and welcoming hotel lobby right through the hotel, gives the Pan Pacific Melbourne an air of cosmopolitan sophistication.
The Pacific Club Lounge
Pan Pacific hotels have a Pacific Club Lounge, which is a private all-inclusive bar and relaxation area and this lounge at Melbourne’s Pan Pacific is incredible. The food and drink choices are extremely extensive; the flower-filled lounge is massive with multiple rooms with lovely decor including black and white rugs on the timber floor.
On a sunny Melbourne day, enjoying a barista-made coffee and full breakfast overlooking the hustle and bustle below is an absolute treat. To access the lounge, you need to book a Pacific Club
Room or Suite to get lounge privileges which include daily champagne breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canap?s and cocktails, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks from the in-room minibar, and late check-out (subject to availability). Open Monday to Friday 6.30am-10pm, Sat, Sun and Public holidays 7am- 10pm. Children 12 and under are welcome until 5pm.
Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen
This high-ceiling, spacious timber restaurant, accessible through the hotel lobby is a wonderful spot for couples or large groups and looks out
onto the timber promenade outside. The Modern Australian menu has been thoughtfully constructed, brand new offerings focus on local and fresh produce. Delicious entrees include scallop, roasted cauliflower puree with prickled granny smiths. Slow-cooked Victorian pork belly with tendon puff or char-grilled octopus. Drool-worthy mains include Pan-fried Humpty Barramundi, Slow-cooked Victorian lamb shoulder, 300g Cape Grim Sirloin, 250g Wagyu Bavette. Kipfler potatoes, Duck Fat fries and Radicchio Salad as sides will keep you full and happy all day and night and is open till late with last call for orders at 9.30pm.
Shopping and What’s On
There is no need to leave a 5-minute walking radius of this hotel, everything is within easy reach including Sealife Melbourne and a late night or early morning brisk river walk is recommended. Right next door is the shopping hub for excellent outlet stores, Nike, Timberland, Fila, Calvin Klein, Coach, Guess and dozens more, open 10am to 6pm,
a welcome respite from chilly winter air outside if visiting in winter. A mere 50 metres across from the lobby is the Melbourne Convention Centre.
Travelling for Work?
If your travel takes you to the Melbourne Convention Centre, the Pan Pacific Melbourne is a 10 second walk across the road, it really couldn’t be easier if you’re there for an expo. There are some major events scheduled at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) during June and July 2025. ArchiBuild Expo 2025 (event for architects, designers, and builder event 12–14 June. Mind Body Spirit Festival (health, wellbeing, and natural therapies) 6–9 June 2025 Melbourne International EV AutoShow (the latest in electric vehicle technology) 27–29 June. Connecting Hydrogen APAC hydrogen energy market 17–18 July 2025. Australian International Furniture Fair & Decor + Design Show the latest in furniture and interior design 16–18 July 2025.Melbourne Career Expo 2025. Australia’s largest careers event, offering information on employment, education, and training opportunities. 25–27 July 2025.
Head to https://www.panpacific.com/ for info on how to book your next Melbourne stay.
Blacktown Netball goes to senior state titles
BLACKTOWN City Netball Association is proudly sending three competitive teams to represent the region at the prestigious 2025 Netball NSW HART Senior State Titles. The event will take place over the June Long Weekend at the Camden & District Netball Association courts.
Blacktown will be fielding an Opens Team, an Under 17s Team, and an Under 15s Team in the three-day tournament, which celebrates grassroots netball and forms an important part of the Netball NSW Pathway.
The teams will compete in the Championship division of each of these three age categories, the highest level played at the tournament. The teams from Blacktown City will have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills against the best players from around the State. Blacktown City has been working extremely hard in recent years to develop and foster local talent from an early age, with many of the players participating in our teams at Senior State Titles having started their netball journey at the Association.
The young, locals playing netball at Blacktown City are being given the opportunity to grow and develop in the game due to a continued investment by the administration and coaching bodies at Blacktown City. They are committed to providing focused, quality training programs for their young athletes.
Results in recent years at the junior level have been impressive and it is hoped that with this experience and more refined skills, the players competing at Senior State Titles will have continued success.
The HART Senior State Titles is one of the highlights on the netball calendar, featuring more than 220 teams, 3,500 registered players, and an estimated 7,000 spectators. It promises to be an action-packed weekend showcasing talent from across New South Wales.
The Blacktown teams have been preparing intensively since late 2024, participating in multiple net-
ball carnivals throughout the year in the lead-up to the tournament. Many of the players also participate in the Netball NSW Metro League Competition on a weekly basis. This long-term commitment and regular intense game play reflects the athletes’ determination to peak at the right time and proudly represent their local community on the state stage.
"We’re incredibly proud of our athletes and the hard work they've put in,” said a spokesperson for Blacktown City Netball Association. “They’ve shown tremendous commitment, and we’re excited to see them compete against the best in NSW."
The Association encourages the Blacktown community to head out to Camden and show their
support. “Come along and cheer on our athletes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness high-level grassroots netball and be part of an unforgettable weekend of sport.”
For more updates and results throughout the tournament, follow Blacktown City Netball Association on social media.
For more information on the season's events, teams, and how to get involved, you can contact the association via email at secretary@blacktownnetball.com.au, visit their website at www. blacktownnetball.com.au, or follow them on their Facebook page. Let us all contribute to making this season a remarkable celebration of sport and community spirit.
