Blacktown News - MARCH 2022

ISSUE 12 | MARCH 2022

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TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

WWW.GREATERBLACKTOWNNEWS.COM.AU

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PROPERTY RTY UPDATEE

GAME TIME

MICHELLE ROWLAND

Inside the bank of mum and dad: 16

B Blacktown FC is ready to go: 31

How Afghan women typify our diversity: 18

PET POWER Grant owes his life to mate Echo RANT Hews has a great reason to be inseparable from his best mate and savior, Echo the Maltese Terrier. You see, Echo saved Grant’s life when he fell into a diabetic coma and when Grant was admitted to Blacktown hospital, the pair were lost without each

other. And we all know the healing power of an animal, a power that should never be underestimated. The heartwarming story begins in late December when Grant was diagnosed with COVID-19 and other underlying health issues at the hospital. More: page 6.

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Keep up to date with the latest news in and around Blacktown!

Get your monthly community e-newsletter today.

blacktown.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

• • • • • • •

important community announcements upcoming events transformational projects school holiday activities community award programs competitions much, much more...

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

Blacktown City blacktown.nsw.gov.au

$

Blacktown

Snapshot

403,000 population

18.81 billion regional economy

4.6%

26,141

average economic growth

registered businesses

152,928 local jobs

What’s on Riverstone Night Markets Saturday 12 March from 5 pm – 9 pm Bambridge Lane, Riverstone We are excited to bring you the very first Riverstone Night Markets on 12th March.

The Bambridge Lane will come to life from 5 pm - 9 pm with live music by local artists as it hosts some of Sydney’s best food trucks and stalls as well as a dedicated street food and dessert section.

2021 Local Government Blood Challenge winners

Term 1 Open Studio

Our staff and the Blacktown City community are

Wednesdays and Thursdays until 7 April from 10.30 am – 1.00 pm

bloody legends!

Last week, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood presented Deputy Mayor Brad Bunting and Council staff with

This was an outstanding achievement, especially as last year’s challenge took place at the same time as Greater Sydney’s COVID-19 lockdown.

Congratulations to all our staff and community who

an award for our winning effort in the 2021 Local Government Blood Challenge.

took the time to donate blood, platelets and plasma

Last year, Council finished in first place for the fourth consecutive year, making 324 donations and saving

Australia Red Cross Lifeblood is in urgent need of donors. If you can, please book in to give blood

972 lives.

today at lifeblood.com.au.

to this important cause.

The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, 78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown Looking to rediscover or connect with your creativity?

The Blacktown Arts open studio provides a supportive place for you to begin and learn the basics or continue to develop your artistic voice.

Tickets are available at blacktownarts.com.au and cost $15 per session (plus booking fees).

Using cricket practice facilities in our parks and reserves Howzat?!?!

Our parks and facilities are to be shared respectfully and considerately by all members of the community.

Here’s a hat-trick of guidelines to follow when using the cricket practice facilities (cricket nets) across the city: • Be mindful of other park users and nearby neighbours.

• Only use the cricket nets after 8 am and during daylight hours.

• Have fun, but not at the expense of others.

By following these guidelines, we can all get the most out of parks, whether you’re a future cricket star, club player, casual park user or local community member.

Blacktown City Council acknowledges the Darug people as the traditional owners of the land on which Blacktown City was built.

Term 1 Kids Art Club Every Thursday until 7 April from 4 pm – 5 pm The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, 78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown After a number of sold out terms in 2021, local artists Mary Nguyen and Saqlain Binte Saleh return to deliver the very popular Kids Club.

This term, budding artists will be creating artworks inspired by the animal kingdom and the natural elements (fire, water, wind and earth).

Tickets are available at blacktownarts.com.au and cost $10 per session (plus booking fees).

Email us: council@blacktown.nsw.gov.au

Call us: 9839 6000

Visit us: 62 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown

Mail us: PO Box 63, Blacktown 2148

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

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Former Mayor Nicolaidis honoured LACKTOWN City Council has honoured former Mayor and Councillor George Nicolaidis OAM for his long and distinguished service with a ‘Key to the City’.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM presented the prestigious honour in the presence of George’s family, CEO Kerry Robinson, former Alderman George Perrin and Council staff.

“It’s not every day you meet somebody who has dedicated 32 years to their community like George did,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“It is important we recognise this magnificent contribution, as many people do not realise the sacrifice councillors make in Local Government.

“For more than three decades, George was driven by a passion and commitment to improving people’s lives in Blacktown City.

“A fierce advocate for Blacktown Municipal Council, as it was then known, George worked tirelessly to see local roads improved as well as ensure the region received essential infrastructure funding to match a growing population.

“I thank George for his incredible service and ongoing legacy.”

George was elected nine times to

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Council, serving from 1965-1983, 1987-1995 and 1999-2004. He served as Mayor from 1974-1976.

Born to Greek parents in Egypt, George migrated to Australia in 1949, at the age of 20, before moving to Colyton in the late 1950s.

In 1965, George made history as one of the first post-war immigrants to be elected to serve on a local council in Sydney.

During his time on Council, he argued to have all roads in the city curbed, guttered and sealed.

He also fought tirelessly for vital infrastructure funding to match the city’s ongoing population growth.

George was also a passionate member of the Rooty Hill Progress Association and Mount Druitt Historical Society, driven by a desire to preserve the city’s growth and heritage.

In 2013, he was recognised for his immense contribution with the Medal of the Order of Australia.

“This honour recognises and celebrates George’s incredible contribution to public life and it is a great privilege to bestow this honour,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM (left) presents the Key to the City to former Mayor and Councillor George Nicolaidis (front), with his wife Ping, and son, Theo.

Ombudsman’s appeal to bosses ATURE age workers can help ease forecast staff shortages this year which is great news for the over 50s struggling to find a job.

Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson is encouraging small and family businesses to welcome applications from all-ages when hiring staff this year.

With many small and family businesses struggling

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amid nation-wide staff shortages, Mr Billson said mature age employees could help ease the workload.

“Small and family businesses are eager to make the most of the summer months of trade, but finding staff is now their biggest issue,” Mr Billson said.

“Vacancies are at an all-time-high in the hospitality industry with more than 100,000 positions open across the country, particularly in tourism hotspots.

“That’s why I am encouraging small and family businesses to be age-inclusive when they advertise for people and really consider the many benefits that a mature worker can bring to the business.

“Age diversity is good for business. Older workers can elevate an entire workplace, with their knowledge, experience and transferrable skills forged over many years.”

FOR 2022 Come down to Woodcroft Quality Meats and enjoy the award winning sausages and burgers.

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

www.facebook.com/theblacktownnews www.instagram.com/communitybroadcastnetwork/

How to get The News The Blacktown News is available at strategic locations throughout Blacktown LGA. To find a location near you visit our website.

Digital edition Each edition of The Blacktown News can be viewed and downloaded in digitalf ormat at our ISSUU platform: www.issuu/communitybroadcastnetwork

Contacts Editorial michael@accessnews.com.au Admin and General info@greaterblacktownnews.com.au Editor Michael Walls michael@accessnews.com.au

Newsroom Travel Editor Dallas Sherringham dallas@accessnews.com.au

Advertising sales Graham Maughan graham@accessnews.com.au Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au

Administration Rebecca Swaleh rebecca@accessnews.com.au

Design and production Design2Pro, Words and Pixels.

Scan to read digital edition

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GRANT OWES HIS LIFE TO ECHO

www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au

ISSUE 12 | MARCH 2022

CoveR StorY

Healing power of pets RANT Hews has a great reason to be inseparable from his best mate and savior, Echo the Maltese Terrier.

You see, Echo saved Grant’s life when he fell into a diabetic coma and when Grant was admitted to Blacktown hospital, the pair were lost without each other.

And we all know the healing power of an animal, a power that should never be underestimated.

The heartwarming story begins in late December when Grant was diagnosed with COVID-19 and other underlying health issues at the hospital.

Echo is 16yo and is an animal-assisted therapy dog. He has been by Grant’s side since he was a pup.

The bond between the two of them is so strong that Echo doesn’t leave Grant’s side. When Grant fell into a diabetic coma, Echo alerted the family to his sudden deterioration in health.

So it’s no surprise that when Grant was admitted to Blacktown hospital, both Echo and his beloved owner were lost without each other.

Echo stopped eating and drinking, wouldn’t let anyone in Grant’s room and waited continually by the front door for his owner to return home. Grant also missed his best mate and required Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission on two occasions.

Once Grant’s condition improved and he was moved out of ICU, staff at Blacktown Hospital went above and beyond to reunite him with his beloved Echo.

“When Grant was moved to a ward, he received such a wonderful surprise when Echo jumped onto his hospital bed,” Nimeshkumar Patel, gastroenterology nurse unit manager for Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals said.

“Therapy dogs can really improve patient outcomes. I’ve seen it several times.

It’s nice that we’ve been able to facilitate Echo to come in for regular visits. It really makes Grant’s day.”

As a registered therapy dog, Echo received a special exemption to visit. He was washed before each visit and sat on a towel on Grant’s bed.

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ISSUE 12 | MARCH 2022

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

WWW.GREATERBLACK TOWNNEWS.COM

%ඔ ඉඋඓග඗ඟN PROPERRTY TY UPDATEE

GAME TIME

Inside the bank of mum and dad: 16

B Black town FC is ready to go: 31

P E T POW

.AU

MICHELLE ROWLAND How Afghan women typify our diversity: 18

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Grant owes his life to mate

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RANT Hews has a great reaso n to be inseparable from his best mate and savio r, Echo the Maltese Terrier. You see, Echo save d Grant’s life when he fell into a diabetic coma and when Grant was admitted to Blacktown hospital, the pair were lost without each

Keep up to date with the

latest news in and around

Get your monthly comm unity e-newsletter toda y.

blacktown.nsw.gov.au

/subscribe

Echo

other. And we all know the healing power of an anim al, a power that should neve r be underestimated. The heartwarming story begins in late December when Gran t was diagnosed with COVID-19 and other underlying healt h issues at the hospital. More : page 6.

Blacktown!

• important community announcements • upcoming events • transformational pro jects • school holiday activitie s • community award pro grams • competitions • much, much more...

Animal-assisted therapy dogs communicate through body language, helping their owners with various functions including communicating with other people.

Both Grant and Echo are now doing

well – Grant was still in hospital recovering and Echo was eating and drinking normally again, at the time of publishing.

Source: Western Sydney Health media

INDEX Support Partner The Blacktown News is the official media partner of Blacktown FC.

News .......................................... 3 Stephen Bali .............................. 7 Blacktown Workers .................... 8 News Extra .............................. 12 Property ................................... 16

Michelle Rowland .................... 18 Men's Health ............................ 19 Woemn's Health ...................... 20 Auto ......................................... 22 Games ..................................... 23

Travel ....................................... 24 Fitness ..................................... 26 Films ........................................ 27 Entertainment .......................... 30 Sport ........................................ 31

Local entertainment Watch locally made films. Stay up to date on infrastructure.

Watch profiles of regional leaders. www.netwerx.tv

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

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Julianna struggles to buy medicine  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM LCAKTOWN’S Julianna Heath battles to pay for her medications every month because of a steep increase in costs of the lifesaving scripts and the cost of living.

She is one of thousands of female patients in the region who struggle to buy medications and often have to go without, putting their life at risk as well as destroying their quality of life.

Julianna at 69 is on 11 medications and is under constant specialist care.

The medications are for blood pressure, severe reflux, asthma, restless legs, sever depression, back pain, shaking hands and severe migraines.

Julianna also has sleep apnea requiring

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masks to be updated and she has a cochlear implant which he a lot of ear infections, requiring constant specialist care.

She reaches her limit approximately in April for the free list but each fortnight she picks up the Webster packs and still has to pay a large sum most times of well over $100.

Julianna Heath.

“My husband I are both on medications which cannot be substituted for chemist brands,” Julianna said.

“We have constant specialist treatment and surgeries and that doesn’t leave us with a lot of our pension for other things.

Women are struggling to afford medicine,” she said

Her situation is backed up by new research which shows how much women are struggling to afford medicines for themselves and their families, with nearly a third or 32% of women 35 to 54 years old without a concession card saying they have found it difficult to pay for prescribed medicines in the past three years.

The new research conducted by independent research firm Insightfully on behalf of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia–community pharmacy’s peak body–has found that close to a third of middle income households -$60,000 to $100,000- without a concession card have found it difficult to afford medications on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

In the marginal electorates surveyed, 13% have gone without prescribed medicines because they could not afford them, with the voters of Flynn and Dobell most affected.

The research was undertaken during January, after the PBS co-payment for medicines automatically rose again on January 1, 2022, putting the patient contribution on track to hit almost $50 by the end of the decade.

National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia Professor Trent Twomey said many Australians were finding it harder to afford essential medicines.

“As community pharmacists, we are raising the alarm. When medicines become unaffordable, it means that there is no real universal access to the PBS which is the foundation of our health system,” Professor Twomey said.

Western Sydney businesses positive SURVEY of Western Sydney businesses showed a degree of optimism, though post-lockdown problems are still being fought.

Finding the right staff remains one of the main challenges facing small businesses, though more than half of respondents say they are “coping well” in the current environment.

The survey, conducted by the Chamber Alliance of Western Sydney (CAWS), shows that Western Sydney SMEs expect to resolve supply issues in the short to medium term and that perceptions on business profitability and sustainability were positive.

CAWS president Trevor Oldfield said one of the organisation’s aims was to provide accurate

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information on the health of SMEs to decision makers across Sydney.

“This information will promote more effective decision-making by business owners and government, service organisations and others interested in maintaining the future business health of the Greater West of Sydney,” Mr Oldfield saidl “True future growth and sustainability will be built on reality and sustainability.”

CAWS has designed the Western Sydney Business Index (WSBI) as a quarterly survey that aims to capture a snapshot of the current conditions and environment within which the businesses in Western Sydney are operating.

“Over time, it will provide indices that will

track and identify the long-term trends that are impacting the community,” Mr Oldfield said.

“Another survey in November will provide an even greater insight as we move forward.”

The survey showed: • 52 pc of respondents are confident their staffing needs will be adequate • 40 pc are confident in recruiting new staff • 58 pc are confident in the supply chain • 64 pc have implemented well-being solutions for staff • 56 pc are coping well For further information, contact CAWS president Trevor Oldfield on 0419 992 826

CAWS President, Trevor Oldfield; who is also President of the Greater Blacktown Chamber of Commerce.

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

RESIDENTS URGED TO CONTRIBUTE TO WESTINVEST

Blacktown’s share of $400M LACKTOWN Council is among local councils across Western and South-Western Sydney that are eligible for up to $400M in funding as part of the first wave of the $5B WestInvest program.

Residents will also be invited to put forward ideas for community enhancing projects ahead of the WestInvest program launch at the end of March, as part of a “Have Your Say” campaign.

The new $5B WestInvest program is made possible by the Government’s WestConnex asset recycling strategy, which will help fund and deliver transformational projects that will enhance communities and help create jobs throughout West and South-West Sydney.

A total of $2Bn will be reserved for high-priority community projects with an initial $400M directly allocated to 15 Western Sydney Local Government Areas to advance shovel-ready local projects.

The initial Local Government tranche will deliver immediate community benefit, with each local council eligible for between $20M and $35M, depending on population size.

The remaining $1.6B of the $2B community project fund will be allocated through a competitive round of grants open to non-government organisations, including community groups, not for profits, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, and local councils.

The $2B community project fund, including the Local Government tranche, is set to launch before the end of March

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Premier Dominic Perrottet.

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres.

for eight weeks, with successful projects expected to be determined by September.

The NSW Government will be consulting with local councils and other key stakeholders on the draft guidelines over the coming weeks to ensure WestInvest delivers the greatest community benefit.

A further $3B will be made available to NSW Government agencies to deliver transformational projects that are ready to go and will benefit local communities.The community is being invited to put forward ideas to help ensure the best projects are funded through the “Have Your Say” campaign.

WestInvest funding will be provided to build new and improved facilities that will deliver community benefit and help

turbocharge economic recovery across six areas: • Parks, urban spaces, and green space; • Enhancing community infrastructure such as local sporting grounds; • Modernising local schools; • Creating and enhancing arts and cultural facilities; • Revitalising high-streets; • Clearing local traffic.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the program would have the twin benefits of delivering new infrastructure and supporting jobs in one of the youngest, fastest-growing, and most diverse regions in the nation.

Free solar - savings up to $600 on electricity bills

“West and South-West Sydney are already incredible places to live, and this program will secure a brighter future for families and residents by helping build new and improved facilities,” Mr Perrottet said.

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the area was emerging strongly from the pandemic and WestInvest would help take the pivotal region to a new level.

“Western Sydney is one of the most diverse and dynamic economic centres in the world and WestInvest will support the region’s growth to make residents’ lives here truly exceptional,” Mr Ayres said.

Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman encouraged residents in Blacktown to submit suggestions. We want to support our rich and diverse communities in West and South-West Sydney in ways they want and need.”

The $5 billion Westinvest Fund is broken down as follows: • $3B for NSW Government agencies to deliver transformational projects; • $2B for high priority community projects; • $1.6B allocated to community groups, non-government organisations, and local councils; • $400M allocated directly to the 15 local councils.

The allocation of all $5B will be informed by the community “Have Your Say” process. More information at: www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/westinvest

Are you eligible for free solar?

The NSW Government is trialling a new way to assist people on low incomes with their power bills by installing free solar systems for up to 3,000 eligible households in place of their Low Income Household Rebate. This program aims to improve energy D൵RUGDELOLW\ E\ KHOSLQJ KRXVHKROGV XQORFN ORQJ WHUPV VDYLQJV RQ WKHLU HOHFWULFLW\ ELOOV :KLOH this means you will no longer receive the $285 annual rebate on your electricity bill, you could receive up to $600 in savings per year from your new solar system!

The program is only available to a limited number of households that live in the region and meet the eligibility criteria. When participating in this program households will receive a free, IXOO\ LQVWDOOHG N: VRODU V\VWHP LQ SODFH RI WKHLU /RZ ,QFRPH +RXVHKROG 5HEDWH SAE Group are the approved provider, designing and installing solar systems to eligible homes in your region.

To be eligible you must: Currently be receiving the Low Income Household Rebate Agree not to receive the rebate for ten years Own your own home Not already have a solar PV system

+ROG D YDOLG 3HQVLRQHU &RQFHVVLRQ &DUG RU D 'HSDUWPHQW RI 9HWHUDQ $൵DLUV Gold Card If you are not the registered homeowner, but your spouse is, you may be considered eligible collectively as a household $ N: V\VWHP LV GHVLJQHG WR JHQHUDWH DQ DYHUDJH RI NZK SHU GD\ ZKLFK ZLOO GHOLYHU electricity savings depending on each household’s energy consumption. Managing Director RI 6$( *URXS *OHQ $VKWRQ FRPPHQWV ³:H NQRZ HOHFWULFLW\ ELOOV FRQWLQXH WR SODFH D ORW RI SUHVVXUH RQ KRXVHKROGV DQG ZH DUH SOHDVHG WR EH ZRUNLQJ ZLWK WKH 16: *RYHUQPHQW WR KHOS ease the pressure on low income households.”

SAE Group are an Australian owned and operated organisation with over ten years’ experience in the solar industry. SAE Group are a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer, DQG KROG DFFUHGLWDWLRQV ,62 $6 1=6 IRU VDIHW\ DQG TXDOLW\ V\VWHPV 6DIHW\ LV SDUDPRXQW WR XV DQG LW RXU JRDO WR HQVXUH ZH SURYLGH TXDOLW\ VRODU V\VWHPV WR HOLJLEOH households that will deliver ongoing savings for many years to come.

Save up to $600 in electricity bills!

SAE Group is the approved provider, designing & installing solar systems for the NSW Government Solar for Low Income Households Trial.

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1300 18 20 50 www.saegroup.com.au

:DQW WR ¿QG RXW PRUH" 9LVLW KWWSV HQHUJ\VDYHU QVZ JRY DX VRODU ORZ LQFRPH KRXVHKROGV WR FKHFN \RXU HOLJLELOLW\ DQG DSSO\ RQOLQH RU YLVLW ZZZ VDHJURXS FRP DX RU FDOO XV RQ 7KH 6RODU IRU Low Income Household Trial is supported by the NSW Government.

Electricial Licences: QLD 72258, NSW 227562C

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW AT WORKERSCLUB.COM.AU OR FROM THE WELCOME DESK AT WORKERS BLACKTOWN

CELTIC BEAT SATURDAY 12 MARCH TICKETS $35 EACH

DUETS THE SHOW SATURDAY 26 MARCH $15 MEMBER $20 VISITOR

CHAMPAGNE WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY 30 MARCH $17 MEMBER $23 VISITOR

WORKERS BLACKTOWN 55 CAMPBELL STREET, BLACKTOWN 2148 CovidSafe regulations apply including limited seating.

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

DINNER THURSDAY 5PM - 8.30PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY 5PM -9PM DINE IN OR TAKEAWAY Available on

Located on level one, Workers Blacktown. town

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WEEKLY DRAWS EVERY FRIDAY ALL VENUES $2,000 cash up for grabs and an Express Ticket to the major draw

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

The mini beats on show at Westpoint Blacktown.

Mini beasts fly into Blacktown ESPOINT Shopping Centre has announced an exciting installation taking over the centre in March and April, exclusive to QIC centres.

National lightshow campaign, Mini Beasts, will fly into Blacktown from March \to 30 April 30, showcasing a range of interactive sculptures, bringing a fun and interactive experience to your next centre visit.

The Mini Beasts installation will feature four sculptures, or ‘beasts’ that

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represent four different native Australian insects.

Growing up to four metres and illuminated by neon lights, the sculptures will depict a Swallowtail Butterfly, Cicada, Neon Cuckoo Bee and an Australian Jumping Spider.

Each sculpture has an interactive element, with a sensor pad activated by close movement or touch, allowing the beasts to create movement and sound.

Visitors will also be able to see each

insect come to life in front of their eyes via an interactive augmented reality experience!

Each Mini Beast will be stationed at various locations around Westpoint, providing a fun exploration throughout different areas of the centre. Visitors can wander through the centre or explore the Level 4 Dining & Entertainment precinct on the hunt for the Mini Beasts.

For the perfect school holiday activity, to get the kids excited, there will also be a

digital competition on offer for customers at the centre.

For those who find and visit all four sculptures on display and scan a QR code at each, they can collect an instant insect-themed prize and will also be entered into the major prize draw to win a $500 Westpoint Gift Card.

To continue the family fun, Westpoint will also be hosting a series of fun insect-themed craft workshops for kids who visit the centre during the April School Holidays.

Werrington mixed-use project TOCKLAND is set to develop a new mixed-use precinct at the Werrington sites at the Penrith campus of Western Sydney University.

With Stockland entering a project delivery agreement with the university, the two parties have proposed a masterplan for the site which would see the Penrith campus transformed into a world-class precinct.

The 99-hectare site, sitting 5km out from the Penrith

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CBD, will be developed into a six-star green star urban neighbourhood, with new housing and over 18-hectares of open space.

“In partnership with Western Sydney University, this unique project aligns with our strategy and will enable us to bring to life a thriving community in a well-connected urban infill location,” said Tarun Gupta, managing director and CEO of Stockland.

The proposed development will include a large town centre to be fully integrated into the current campus facilities.

The project will also see a ‘living laboratory’ established for education, research and innovation, social connection, sustainability and exploration.

Source: Australian Property Journal. www.australianpropertyjournal.com.au

Better Foundation raises money for Blacktown and Mt Druitt Hospitals to provide lifesaving additional services and equipment for the people of Blacktown City.

Better Foundation is pleased to announce our media collaboration partnership with Blacktown News to provide monthly updates on Blacktown and Mt Druitt Hospitals.

The Community thanks all hospital staff for their dedicated service during the COVID pandemic.

Thank you!

Updates on the hospital and Gala Dinner Night on Saturday 19th March 2022 can be found on Better Foundation website: https://betterfoundation.org.au/

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

BLACKTOWN CITY SHOW

BLACKTOWN SHOWGROUND SATURDAY 12th & SUNDAY 13th MARCH

THE LONGEST RUNNING EVENT IN BLACKTOWN HISTORY Celebrating

the show’s

98

th

Anniversary

Blacktown is bouncing back so come and enjoy entertainment for the whole family Showbags, Carnival Rides, and a great variety of Food.

Visit the Arts & Crafts, Cooking, Photograph & Horticulture Pavilions.

Kids will enjoy the Animal Farm Nursery, Reptile Display, Prof. Wallace’s Puppet Theatre, and Joey Presto Magic Show.

Great stage entertainment on Saturday night featuring Elvis in Concert and Pop Country singer Shara Rose followed by the FMX KAO’s International Freestyle Team performing the most death defying entertaining stunt show ever seen in the country.

Finally the Blacktown City Councils Fireworks Spectacular.

Sunday features the “A Search for a Star Talent Quest” and the Car Show & Ute Muster.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE SHOW

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News Extra

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

SPECIAL REPORT: OUR PROBLEM WITH DIABETES

Fast food debate rages

“

 JADE HOBMAN OES Greater Blacktown have a problem with diabetes?

Looks like it, according to a swath of research done on our very own doorstep.

Research conducted at Blacktown Hospital in 2019 unveiled the difficult truth that the health and wellbeing of the City of Blacktown was inching ever closer to one in eight people being under serious threat.

100,000 diabetes blood tests were administered, as part of a Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) research initiative, on people passing through the Blacktown Hospital emergency department in 2019, which produced evidence of significant high blood sugar levels in much of the community.

Dr Tien-Ming Hng at the Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology at Blacktown Hospital said at the time that 48 per cent of people tested either had diabetes, or pre-diabetes issues.

“Of the 100,000 tests conducted, 30.5 percent, or 30,533 tests, revealed a result consistent with pre-diabetes, and 17.4 per cent, or 17,435 tests, revealed a result consistent with diabetes (type 1 or type 2),” Dr Hng told The Pulse in 2019.

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What is diabetes?

Diabetes Australia says the weighty and complex condition can affect the entire body, which can lead to some dire

A lot of people always talk about healthy living and that’s why I put the pressure onto Council to say, your policies say we are unhealthy, but why are you using your own land to put a KFC on, instead of a healthy food option.”

– Steve Bali. consequences. It has three different types, type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes–the fastest growing kind of diabetes in the nation, affecting thousands of pregnant women. When someone has it, their body can’t maintain healthy levels of glucose in the blood, which can cause a range of complications.

In a recent WSD year-in-review report, it said diabetes has gone from being a relatively uncommon disease in the early 1990s, to an issue that 1 in 10 Australians face, driven much by an increase in type 2 diabetes.

They said the increased disease and death burden have been seen in heart attacks, heart failure, strokes, kidney failure, foot amputations, liver disease and blindness.

Heloise Tolar from WSD talked plainly about the prevalence of the disease in Western Sydney, with the highest incidences centred in on Mt Druitt.

“In a nutshell, Western Sydney is a diabetes hotspot with disease rates higher than the NSW average,” Ms Tolar told the Greater Blacktown News. “If this 'hotspot' is not addressed, within a decade it will

cause an unsustainable economic and societal burden on the state's healthcare system.”

State Labor MP for Blacktown Stephen Bali said diabetes can often go undiagnosed and can cause havoc when it is not attended to in a timely manner.

“The problem with diabetes is that it just kind of sneaks up on you,” Mr Bali told the Blacktown News. “Your eyesight slowly fails, or some of the symptoms of diabetes is bad circulation, so the challenge is there.”

Continued on page 13

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Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale with NSW Labor leader Chris and with staff at Blackktown Workers Club.

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SW Labor leader, Chris Minns visited Blacktown Workers Club last week to express his support for the Blacktown businesses community. The leader’s visit comes as Blacktown Workers Club gears a special event on November up for 16 called Blacktown Bouncing Back (BBB)).

BBB is a collaborative project inform and educate teams created to Blacktown about adaption,in and around protection and redefining success as we progress from lockdown. “We need Western Sydney to bounce back as it is the heartbeat of New South Wales and the third economic zone in Australia,” largest Mr Minns said." MORE PAGE 3.

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LACKTOWN Hospital’s famous Olympian Dr Jana Pittman for a grueling survival challenge has swapped her stethoscope in the latest series of ‘SAS’ Jana’s roller coaster ride TV on the Seven Network. of triumph, defeat, failure and makes her ideal for the rigorous format of the show. success throughout her life one of the 18 celebrities The 38-year-old dual Olympian who will be subjected to is extreme physical and psychologica on the upcoming military-styl l testing e show.

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

13

consent authority for it is the Independent Planning Panel, not the Council.

“Council understands that despite planning approval for a KFC facility on the lot being given by an Independent Planning Panel, the development will not go ahead, and Council is not aware of any other interest on the site at present,” a Council spokesperson told the Greater Blacktown News.

But Mr Bali said that while Council is developing the land for commercial purposes, in partnership with the Western Sydney Wanderers, ‘Council as owner has the right of veto on what goes onto that land’.

Prevention and hope

Blacktown MP, Stephen Bali.

Continued from page 12

Fast food on tap Mr Bali said Blacktown Council made good inroads in diabetes prevention with a push to change the types of oils local food outlets used in cooking, and with their investment in the Blacktown International Sportspark precinct in Rooty Hill. But he said the impact of the many fast-food outlets in the Greater Blacktown area has had substantial health consequences on the region.

In a presentation he did for the Council last year, Mr Bali illustrated the stark differences between 13 of the most popular fast-food outlets in the Blacktown City Council with the Northern Beaches Council.

He said the Blacktown area, where the population now sits at around 400,000, had 104 of the fast-food outlets.

The Northern Beaches area, with about 274,000 people, had just 35. For instance, there are 23 McDonalds and 13 KFC outlets

in Blacktown, and 5 and 4 in the Northern Beaches respectively, and the list tells a similar story with others like Dominos and Red Rooster.

Mr Bali also questioned why the Council, who have been advocating for a healthier Blacktown, didn’t have a problem with plans that have been in the air for a KFC to be built on Council land at the Sportspark precinct–a place that is supposed to be addressing healthy living in the area.

A development application for a KFC to be constructed at the Sportspark on 100 Eastern Road, Rooty Hill was approved by the NSW-appointed Independent Planning Panel in December last year.

“A lot of people always talk about healthy living and that’s why I put the pressure onto Council to say, your policies say we are unhealthy, but why are you using your own land to put a KFC on, instead of a healthy food option,” Mr Bali told the Blacktown News.

The Council said they understood the KFC project was discontinuing, and the

The WSD year-in-review report said that diabetes is Australia’s largest disease burden, despite 80 per cent of it being preventable. And Mr Bali said smashing the potential onset of it can be as easy as getting a diabetes blood test done at your medical centre once a year–but said there’s a lot to be done to encourage lifestyle habit changes.

“It doesn’t take much to make small changes … starting up walking clubs, talking to schools and getting better programs, assessment and monitoring during students’ schooling life,” Mr Bali said.

“We need to raise awareness on health checks, so when you go to the doctor, just get a basic blood check-up–I did mine in November last year, which was the first one I had done in four years–if you allow your health to diminish too much, it’s a lot harder to get it back.”

Meanwhile, a documentary series aired on SBS last year raised hope for sufferers as science journalist Dr Michael Mosley claimed type 2 diabetes could not only be prevented but be reversed with diet. The series – Australia’s Health Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley–revealed Dr Mosley’s own struggles after being diagnosed and how he got his blood sugars back to normal sans medication.

KEYS TO PREVENTION Researchers are currently looking into how type 1 diabetes can be prevented, but there are evidence-based activities that can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, which include: • Maintaining a healthy weight • Regular physical activity • Making healthy food choices • Managing blood pressure • Managing cholesterol levels • Not smoking

Still, Diabetes Australia said there is currently no cure for diabetes, but those with it can live an enjoyable life by learning about it and how to effectively manage it–there is much support out there.

One service is the Get Healthy Service, which offers all NSW residents over 16 years free telephone health coaching with top qualified health professionals for up to six months. You can register online or call 1300 806 258, 800am to 800pm Monday to Friday.

Source: Diabetes Australia

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

MORE THAN JUST A SAUSAGE SIZZLE

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

15

WESTFIELD MT DRUITT EXPANSION

Next level entertainment area CENTRE Group, together with its joint venture partner Dexus Wholesale Property Fund, has opened the doors to Westfield Mt Druitt’s highly anticipated $55M rooftop dining, entertainment and lifestyle precinct.

Designed specifically for the Western Sydney community, the 6,500 sqm precinct takes the centre’s dining and lifestyle offering to the ‘next level’ with 15 new dining experiences, including; The Sporting Globe, TGI Fridays, Mad Mex, San Churro, Little Bangkok, ChaTime, Baskin Robbins and a large-scale Timezone.

Scentre Group Regional Centre Experience Manager, Danii Ashton said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming our customers and new retail partners to Westfield Mt Druitt’s brand-new rooftop dining, entertainment and lifestyle precinct.

“Our vision was to create a dynamic destination for the Mt Druitt community to come together and enjoy quality time with friends and family.

“This investment in Westfield Mt Druitt celebrates our connection to the local community and our commitment to delivering experiences that meet their needs and interests, now and into the future.

“We are incredibly proud of what we’ve delivered and have already seen a fantastic response in these first few hours from our customers.”

Opening day celebrations, including live entertainment, exclusive offers, giveaways will continue across the weekend.

For more information about Westfield Mt Druitt’s new rooftop dining and entertainment precinct or the schedule of events, please visit: www.westfield.com.au/ mtdruitt The next level line-up of new dining and entertainment experiences includes: • Timezone – Will feature over 75 of the latest and greatest arcade games, a Laser Tag arena, Spin Zone Bumper Cars tracks, bowling lanes, dedicated multi-purpose party rooms and a Winners Vault for prizes and redemptions.

• The Sporting Globe - A place where fans, fanatics, friends, and families can gather and celebrate their passion for sport.

• TGI Fridays - Serving up your favourite American dishes right off the grill, beer is always on tap and every day feels like a Friday at TGI Fridays • Enzo’s Cucina – Known for its unique atmosphere and prides itself on being a family-run restaurant making homemade Italian food from the freshest ingredients, in a cosy, family-friendly environment.

• Pappa Rich – Offering customers a taste of Malaysian culture and cuisine, whether through a plate of Nasi Lemak or a crunchy, buttery Roti Canai, all with a cup of Teh Tarik.

S

Opening of Westfeild Mt Druitt expansion.

• Slim’s Quality Burgers – A contemporary-classic burger offering inspired by 1950s and '60s Americana made only from the highest quality, locally source ingredients.

• Pho Master – Savour Vietnamese food that will combine many elements of culinary traditions.

• Lilong by Taste of Shanghai - Lilong brings you an authentic Shanghai community and street dining experience. It is all about lively, memorable round-thetable moments with friends and family.

• Mad Mex - Offering fresh, gourmet, made-to-order Baja Mexican dishes combined with quick

service, giving lovers of fresh Mexican fare a vibrant dine-in or take-away option.

• Little Bangkok – Serving up authentic and fabulous Thai street food along with more elaborate and complex restaurant-style dishes; as well as new and exciting combinations that are a union of traditional and contemporary techniques.

• Caffe and Co – All day breakfast and brunch spot serving up classic breakfast and lunch cafe fare.

• Baskin Robbins - The world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins® creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts

•

•

•

•

and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers.

Hero Sushi - Delicious sushi made fresh by Hero Sushi's talented team of chefs, trained by Japanese Sushi Chefs.

San Churro - A destination for friends to come together and share a sweet moment. Where every amigo is welcome to celebrate life, the Spanish way.

ChaTime - Australia's newest and most innovative bubble tea outlet; their delicious selection of iced teas is shaking up the game.

Pasha - The best quality of Turkish dishes, charming atmosphere, and truly unforgettable dining experience.

PROPERTY SHOWCASE 16

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

Got something to share? Send your property tips to info@greaterblacktownnews.com.au

APPLYING FOR A HOME LOAN

Bank of Mum and Dad risks How parents contribute Parents are now ranked as Australia’s ninth biggest mortgage lender while a whopping 60% of first-time buyers getting help from Mum and Dad.

And the generosity of the Bank of Mum and Dad could ironically be contributing to the current sky high prices which home buyers dread.

Executive Director of Loan Market Andrea McNaughton said Banks took into account the source of a deposit when you apply for a loan, even with Mum and Dad’s backing..

You have to demonstrate you have the track record and commitment to service the mortgage, Ms McNaughton said.

“If you can’t, as the purchaser, display a pattern or ability to meet ongoing repayments, a deposit – irrespective of where it’s sourced from – may not be enough to convince a lender that you’re a suitable mortgage candidate.”

 DALLAS SHERRINGHAM HE Bank of Dad and Mum is one of the biggest drivers of real estate sales in Western Sydney, but it is no guarantee of success when you apply for a home loan.

Parents are now ranked as Australia’s ninth biggest mortgage lender while a whopping 60% of first-time buyers getting help from Mum and Dad. The average contribution is around $100,000 which is enough for a deposit in many parts of Australia.

The total national contribution for the kids is $34bn which is greater than lenders like the Bank of Queensland, AMP, Heritage Bank, Beyond Bank and Greater Bank.

T

Seek advice “The Bank of Mum and Dad has shot to prominence in recent years as parents help their first home buyer children break into the property market.

“If your parents are helping out, there needs to be a clear stipulation on whether the deposit amount is a gift or a guarantee – there are major legal differences between the two, including liabilities for parents,” Ms Mc Naughton said.

“You should always seek legal advice before going down this road.”

She said as well as an acceptable deposit, lenders looked for several other criteria when assessing you for a mortgage.

“They will want to see that you have a pattern of stable employment. As a guide, most financial institutions are looking to see if you have been in your current job for at least six months to a year to approve a loan. And of course, they will be checking that you have the income that can afford to pay the mortgage.

A clean credit history, minimal debts and a good financial position overall is also taken into consideration.

“You should not have more than 7% of the property’s value tied up in unsecured debts such as personal loans and credit cards,” Ms McNaughton said.

Source: Loan Market, Savings.com.au

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ParramattA ParramattA T I M E S

ISSUE 17 | DECEMBER 2021

LO OUR CA CI L PA TY PE ’S R

DECEMBER 2021 | EDITION 128 APRIL 2021 Edition 120

Voice of Australia’s most progressive city

FUNDING

FILM REVIEWS

Chamber’s plan for arts sector: 4

Dune – 5 Stars.

The greatest movie of the decade: 26

EDUCATION

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WSABE 2021 celebrates hope, resilience de si in ARRAMATTA Chamber of Commerce found-

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2021, about 700 guests gathered at ATC, Rosehill immaculately dressed in theme ‘Back in Black’ with ed the Western Sydney Awards for Business Gardens to celebrate business excellence in the a touch of gold celebrating hope and resilience.

Excellence in 1990, affectionately known region. After what has been the most challenging The resilience of the business community in as WSABE. On Wednesday, November 24, period of our working lives, guests flowed, Western Sydney is second to none. More page 17.

World class health care New suburb named BradÀeld Family business in COVID How hope really works

Westmead Hospital’s new clinical tower oepns: 2

Govy ofÀcially names high tech city at Aerotropolis: 6

How many leveraged patience capital during COVID: 12

Feature on the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: 15

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T I M E S

MERRY CHRISTMAS

World ranking for WSU Business School: 8

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Thank you to all our readers and advertisers for your support during 2022 and we look forward to returning with some exciting new projects in 2022.

ITS beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the City of Parramatta with an assortment of fun Yuletide activities for people of all ages to enjoy. See page 12.

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

BEST GIFT SINCE THE OPERA HOUSE POWERHOUSE Parramatta CEO Lisa Havilah is more interested in the flood of excitement over the controversial $920M project than any flood-waters that may lap at its riverside approach. After the recent devastating rains that saw Parramatta River break its banks between the ferry wharf and the site of the museum, Ms Havilah is adamant that the building and its exhibits will not be affected.

FULL STORY PAGE 10

THIS EDITION

TALE OF TWO POOLS 160 YEARS A INSIDE

FTER a few hot summers for swimmers who loved Parramatta and w ÌîÿÓâî®þ±ÅÅ ßÓÓÅæ Ì æóđ â during their closures, relief is on the AUTO: SsangYong's mid-life update: 30 way. Just a day apart, the refurbished BUSINESS: Retailers reveal solutions: 34 Wentworthville pool opened and TRENDS: Is love passing you by?: 36 î® Ĝâæî æÓ ÿ æ îóâÌ ÓÌ î® spectacular Parramatta Aquatic N its 160 years as a local government area, Centre.

Parramatta certainly has grown up - all Both communities have the way to the sky. Four days after a ceremony commemorating declaration of been without a poolthe since 2017, the Parramatta as a municipality, Sydney’s burgeoning second city welcomed Premier Parramatta Memorial Pool demolished Dominic Perrottet to the “topping out” ceremony of the 225 metre 55 storey high 8 to make way forSquare, Bankwest Stadium Parramatta Square, which, with adjoining 4 and 6 Parramatta will house 9500 and the previous Holroyd Council NSW Government workers. More page 8. wanting to close the tired Wenty pool SALOVS: How hope really happens: 19

OF GROWTH

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rather than refurbish it. After a bit of æ óĖ îÿ Ì W ââ Ë îî ÓóÌ ±Å and the NSW Government on who would pay for its replacement, an agreement was reached on funding for the state-of-the-art aquatic centre. And in Wentworthville, a concerted community campaign and the Cumberland Council, saved the beloved pool with an upgrade. While Parramatta residents wait two years for their pool, they are welcome to dive to Wenty.

WSABE 2021 WRAP-UP

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48,000 Facebook followers Build your own resume Media support programs Multiple packages available

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Issue 1 | April 2021

EXCLUSIVE: Bob Turner on his new role at Blacktown FC.

MERRY CHRISTMAS Thank you to all our readers and advertisers for your support during 2021 and we look forward to returning with some exciting new initiatives in 2022.

WIN See page 4 for a chance to win a $150 dining voucher from Blacktown Workers Club.

Young people turning their lives around at BYSA.

Youth Needs Our Support

A

VITAL youth service in Blacktown is set to close after missing out on important State Government funding. The Blacktown Youth Support Association’s Youth HQ program helps young people at risk - those who have

been in trouble with the law or those who may be headed that way. But the service was told at the end of last year by the Department of Communities and Justice that they had missed out on funding, in favour of more “targeted” youth

programs. A letter from the Minister for Families and Communities Gareth Ward suggested that the BYSA seeks funding from other government departments such as education and sport.

FULL STORY 10

HIGHWAY UPGRADE T

WELCOME to the Blacktown NEWS

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ELCOME to Blacktown's NEW LOCAL media The News will be distributed across 110 strategic disAs one of the state’s fastest growing cities, Blacktown voice, The Blacktown News (BN). tribution points in the LGA. has undergone a signiĜcant transformation.

The Blacktown News is the much-anticipated It's population is set to rise from 400,000 to 540,000 Published in digital and print editions the Blacktown new and digital media brand that is set News residents byof 2036. ers maximum impact for next targeted advertising HEnewspaper troublesome Prospect Highway for a ođ $280M year on the 3.6km stretch highway, after the contract was covers Blacktown LGA with local news written by experiThe Blacktown News is the print and digital media opportunities and reach to Blacktown's diverse populaupgrade that will improve safety and travel times in Greater awarded to Fulton Hogan.

Federal Minister for Communications, enced journalists. resource that connects residents and visitors to the city’s tion.

Blacktown WesternONLY Sydney.

The blackspot been of championingUrban Infrastructure, Cities community, and the Arts Paul Fletcher the The Blacktown Newsand is Blacktown's printed diverse its progress, businesssaid opportunities Withhas a mission community and newspaper and is independently owned and managed lifestyle. business issues, the BN is a proud media partner of the given the green light thanks to a joint funding commitment project would deliver and improvements to travel times and safety for locally by a management team that has been working in We value your feedback. Go to www.greaterblackGreater Blacktown Chamber of Commerce, the Blacktown from thefor Australian and NSWs governments. Work willBusiness start early drivers, More 6. story.

Blacktown almost 20 years. townnews.com.au to page share your Local Awards and Blacktown FC. cyclists and pedestrians.

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ISSUE 9LO| CA DECEMBER 2021

Blacktown'ss LOCAL media voice Blacktown

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Snapshot

• important community announcements • upcoming events • transformational projects • school holiday activities • community award programs

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Contact us today for a conversation about your success plans: graham@accessnews.com.au

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CommenT with MICHELLE ROWLAND

Afghan women typify diversity  MICHELLE ROWLAND AST year I met with the inspiring Afghan Women On The Move (AWOTM) team at the fantastic local Afghan street food restaurant, Afghan Chapli, right here in Blacktown.

There, they had asked me what community space options there were for them to operate their organisation.

It prompted me to realise that grassroots organisations here would really benefit from cultural infrastructure to provide more multipurpose community space, because simply, there aren’t many spaces for community organisations here in Western Sydney.

Then, last week we came back together at Afghan Chapli — not just to indulge in the array of delicious, traditional food and tea they offer, but to talk solutions. Namely, Labor’s announcement to commission a feasibility study into the relocation of SBS HQ to Sydney’s West.

Western Sydney is one of Australia’s most diverse and fast-growing areas and SBS is Australia’s most diverse multilingual, multiplatform media organisations.

SBS is already focused on providing diverse, quality programming, so spaces alongside their headquarters have the potential to foster and strengthen community diversity and provide organisations like Afghan Women on the Move with the spaces to run their operations and create content.

As we emerge from the pandemic, it is also important to ensure we’re providing local jobs for local people here in Western Sydney.

It has been estimated that building a new SBS HQ in Western Sydney would create almost 400 construction jobs and generate $85 million for the Sydney economy.

When I discussed this with Maryam Zahid, Mujgan Tahery, Zainab Khavary, Anthea Green and Gul Rafiqi, they also believed that this relocation would benefit community organisations like theirs, especially ones that are just getting started.

Maryam, the Founder of Afghan Women on the Move said: “Because AWOTM

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Michelle Rowland meets with Afghan women.

Michelle Rowland MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR GREENWAY

Level 1, Suite 101C, 130 Main Street, Blacktown PO Box 8525, Blacktown NSW 2148 (02) 9671 4780 Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au www.michellerowland.com.au MRowlandMP Authorised by Michelle Rowland MP, Australian Labor Party, Suite 101C, Level 1, 130 Main Street, Blacktown NSW 2148

ISSUE 9 | December 2021

started from social media, we have no space to function. Now we have been lucky to find a room from Blacktown Council, which we are very thankful for. But you can't just work through social media in Zoom meetings, if you really want to bring the change.

So, I think that's how I see the importance of having a space through the relocation of SBS — to provide these community spaces for organisations like ours in Western Sydney.: Anthea, their Operations Manager said: “I think if SBS gets to Western Sydney, that's a wonderful opportunity to create a space alongside…that supports what they're trying to do without costing them a whole heap of money. I think it's a great support for local communities.”

Ultimately, our announcement is one that is focused on harnessing the cultural value we can offer in Western Sydney and ensuring that infrastructure like this can create local jobs and support our local community.

It is one step closer to creating a better future for all.

Michelle Rowland is Shadow Minister for Communications Federal Member for Greenway.

Visit: www.michellerowland.com.au

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

Men's Health

19

INACTION AND AVOIDANCE ARE THE SILENT KILLERS

The cost of doing nothing  MINDSET | MARCUS WHEAN The short and easy answer is that, at best, nothing changes, at worst, sometimes senseless tragedy is the consequence of not taking action.

HEN I work with clients as a psychologist they only know me as a psychologist. It is not just my perception of their thinking, but their actual perceptions of me, that I must have it ‘all together’, have no issues in my own life etc.

Truth is, I am human first, father second and psychologist is somewhere down the ladder in 3rd or 4th place.

I was most aware of clients’ perceptions of me when I had to cancel a week of appointments one week in March 2018. I had suffered a personal loss of someone close to me and attended the funeral that week.

On March 12, 2018 I received a call that would turn my life even more upside down than it was already. I was a bit over a year into being separated after 13 years with the mother of my children.

Separation is never easy, and we did a good of it for our kids. Yet the change and adjusting takes time. Until March 12 I was going ok. Work was good and was on the way to embracing my ‘new normal’.

Then, my phone rang: ”Marcus, ah, it's Dr xxxx, your appointment this Thursday with Dr xxxx has been cancelled, ah, Dr xxxx has died”. I remember this as if it was yesterday. Dr xxxx was my therapist and had been helping with my personal and professional development, also with navigating my new life as a single dad.

I was seeing him every week for three years. It was a profoundly positive and life-changing experience for me personally and helped immensely professionally. I was very sad, obviously, but sadness became trauma and tragedy when I found he

W

had not died of ‘natural causes’ but he had taken his own life.

Dr xxxx was someone I held in very high regard and esteem. He had been so wonderfully helpful to me and I still to this day I’m forever grateful for him. But behind the veil, my perceptions of him being an ‘expert’, was a man obviously fractured and broken, finally becoming overwhelmed by his unresolved emotions and psychological pain.

He took action I guess, but the most tragic kind. In fact, truly, and it saddens me to say, he failed to take meaningful action. But I get it. It is really difficult when you have depression.

From that experience, among other challenges I encountered over the next year or so, I fell into my own depression of sorts.

I had to work less with clients and even tried to start another different type of business hoping that something very different would help. It did not. Things got worse before they got better. But better they eventually did.

How? Why? One thing I have taken from Dr xxxx’s passing was: “That was the worst cost of doing nothing, the ultimate price…… and thus I must (and encourage others to) always take meaningful action, always!”

If there’s one thing that I would say about my character overall in my life, not only out of that tragedy, is I always take action.

When you take action, any action, you are one step closer to where you need to be: whether that be to closing or solving a problem, or one step closer to achieving a goal.

It’s an avoidable phenomenon Many of us share this core belief around failure and fearing it. There is truly no such thing when it comes to mental fitness, health and personal growth.

Inaction and avoidance are the silent and slow killers, not just physically but lead to needless misery, stress and anxiety; and yet avoidance of our problems comes so easily to us humans and maybe more so for us men.

Better to ignore the problem, bury it “she’ll be right” is absolutely an old school belief that has maybe led to many more men suffering needlessly.

I truly believe that many men’s mental issues and worse, suicides, are an avoidable phenomenon if as men we can realise that there is ALWAYS a course of action: 1. Talk to a friend, family member 2. Ring Lifeline or Mensline 3. Write down your goals or problems and set plans and work on them daily 4. See your GP and a psych or counsellor 5. Basic stuff too like have a balanced lifestyle, routine, exercise, be involved in a hobby (ideally one with other men or communities) 6. Reading, learning about self-help, practising self-care like meditation and relaxation exercises. 7. There is a tonne of self-help info on social media and Google.

If you struggle with stuff but don’t know where to go, join a group that does, subscribe to psychology and mental health sites. 8. Take action!!!

I truly get and understand that when in the thick of crises, it can be hard to see the forest for the trees. Taking action now, every day not just if you need it is critically important. I always say and maintain this philosophy that prevention is always better than intervention. And easier!

Whatever you take from this story or any others you’ve heard, change and addressing problems can be hard and challenging but not taking action is always harder for you, and for your loved ones.

Do it now. Ring that friend. Solve that problem, set that goal. See your GP. Go for a run. Whatever, it doesn’t matter – Just Do it Now! Marcus Whelan is a Registered Psychologist and Mental Fitness Coachwith 10+ years’ experience in private practice. He holds undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in psychology and education. Visit: www. marcuswhelanpsychology.com.au

Women's Health

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

I LIKE JUNK FOOD: IS THAT A PROBLEM?

Tips for managed moderation  ANNEKA FINN UNK food–food that doesn’t necessarily give our body’s much nutrition but is tasty and is used to celebrate important life events.

Junk food is rich in quickly digested sugars, salt and fat so its no wonder we enjoy it. As humans we are primed to enjoy the taste of these foods as millions of years ago they would have helped us survive.

The problem nowadays is that junk food is so readily available, it is easy to overconsume. Everywhere you look, drive and shop it is guarantee that junk food is available for purchase.

Junk foods are referred to by dietitians and health professionals as “discretionary foods”. Such foods include for example (but not limited to); biscuits, desserts, pastries, processed meats, ice-cream, confectionary, chips and soft drinks.

Problems occur when these foods contribute to most of an individual’s diet.

This is because they take the place of more nutritious foods. They are high in calories yet low in nutrition. Essentially there isn’t much room left for all the good stuff!

Considering that less than 5% of Australian adults eat the recommended five serves of vegetables per day I think its safe to say this; you liking junk food might not be a problem in isolation but the amount of junk food average Australians eat is!

So, what can we do about it? In my experience working with clients, we need to

“

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Instead of buying large tubs of ice-cream, visit the ice-creamery once a month for a real treat.”

take a practical approach to the situation.

Rather than focusing on removing things from your diet, focus on adding more of the good stuff!

While shopping ensure you purchase lost of healthy options including fresh cuts of meat, wholegrains, fruit and vegetables.

Limit purchasing discretionary foods in the first place so you stop bringing them into your home.

Once these foods are in the fridge or pantry then of course they are going to be eaten! Control your environment rather than relying on will-power.

Another strategy is to make the consumption of discretionary foods an ‘event’ instead of an ‘everyday occurrence’. Rather

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than purchasing cheap biscuits and cakes, bake something from scratch on the weekends.

Instead of buying large tubs of icecream, visit the ice-creamery once a month for a real ‘treat’. Junk food is still to be enjoyed but choosing the appropriate time, situation and amount is key.

One important aspect to consider when it comes to junk food is their environmental impact. In the last 10 years, the dairy and meat industry have copped a lot of criticism for their environmental impact.

This has seen the rise in popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets. A recent study conducted by the University of South Australia found that discretionary

foods contribute between 27-33% to the total food related greenhouse gas emissions. When we compare these figures to the greenhouse gas emissions of red meat (17.6%), chicken (11%) and dairy (10.5%) the incentive to reduce our intake of junk foods is overwhelming.

So next time you hit the grocery store or go to pick up something from the petrol station maybe think twice about your choices. If not for your own health, make a better choice for our environment.

We are all different and need an individualised approach to our nutrition and health.

Anneka Finn is an Accredited practicing dietitian & nutritionist.

Visit www.afinndiet.com anneka.dietitian@gmail.com

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

AMCHAM GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY SUMMIT

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22

AutO

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

Diesel ditched; 2.5-litre turbo-petrol model new entry point to G80 range  MATT BROGAN ENESIS has moved to all-petrol power for its 2022 G80 line-up with the 2.5-litre turbo-petrol variant taking over duties as the entry point to the range.

Now priced from $86,000 plus on-road costs, the G2.5 is $1224 dearer than it was in 2021, and like the range-topping G3.5, is offered in two trim grades, Sport and Sport Line priced at $6000 apiece.

Both G80 variants are further available with an upgraded Luxury Package for 2022.

As part of the optional package, the G80 now features driver and front passenger ergo motion seats, and a wireless phone charger for rear occupants.

Matte paint continues to add $2000 to the asking price.

“With new Sport and Sport Line variants and an enhanced Luxury Package, 2022 G80 builds on the model’s renowned Athletic Elegance,” Genesis Motors Australia CEO Ted Lee said. “(The) 2022 G80 gives every customer additional safety, style, and convenience features, to create an even more enticing sports luxury sedan package,” he added.

The rear-wheel drive G2.5 is powered by a 224kW/422Nm turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired to an eightspeed automatic transmission.

The chassis of the G80 G2.5 is suspended by Genesis’ Road Preview Electronically Controlled Suspension (ECS) while braking duties are enhanced by larger four-piston monobloc calipers on the front axle.

The newest G80 variant rides on fivespoke 19-inch alloy wheels in a Hyper Silver and is further differentiated by model-specific Sports exterior and interior styling.

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Meanwhile, the G3.5 continues to offer a 279kW/530Nm twin-turbocharged V6 with standard eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Priced from $102,000 (+$2224) plus on-road costs, the flagship variant is also equipped with rear-wheel steering – reducing the turning circle from 11.6 to 10.9m – an active road noise control system, a new Sport+ drive mode, and launch control, in addition to all the Sport Line features.

All 2022 G80 variants are further enhanced by the addition of an Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) system as part of an extensive standard safety package.

Both the G80 G2.5 and G3.5 are offered with a choice of 13 paint colours, eight upholstery choices in a selection of six colours, and with three trims in open pore real wood or Real Carbon (carbon-fibre).

Sport and Sport Line variants adopt a more aggressive appearance that opens with a unique front bumper, featuring enlarged lower intakes and air curtain inlets, and a dark chrome front grille with matching dark chrome exterior highlights.

There are also 20-inch Sport fivespoke alloy wheels with a dark grey finish and G-Matrix pattern, and black-painted monobloc front calipers.

G80 Sport and Sport Line variants further receive a redesigned rear bumper with side air vents and dual exhausts with Crest Grille-shaped finishers.

All Genesis petrol models are backed by a complimentary five-year/50,000km scheduled servicing plan and five-year/ unlimited-kilometre warranty, roadside assistance and Valet Service program.

2022 Genesis G80 pricing*: G2.5 $86,000 (+$1224) G3.5 $102,000 (+$2224) *Pricing excludes on-road costs.

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

Crosswords/Games

23

Solutions page 25

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Make judgments 5. Grownup efts 10. Marsh wader 14. Between tasks 15. Bird-related 16. Spike 17. Better writing?

18. Earth, in sci-fi fare 19. Hose annoyance 20. They're off the main drag 23. Valuable connections 24. Too weird 25. Ceilings 27. Nonfat advocate Jack 30. Big name in hotels 33. Asian ox 36. Hardly a striking individual 38. Farm machinery company 39. Bone under a watch 41. Road, in Quebec 42. Flight paths 43. Investigator's sources 45. Olympics sticker 47. Posed for pics, perhaps 48. Sees 50. Impersonate 53. Attack like a turtle 54. Up 57. Flock sound 59. Chuck Berry's medium 64. Military doctor's concern 66. Hullabaloo 67. Perimeter contents 68. Relish 69. Goggles 70. Wilderness retreats 71. Start to come and go?

72. Be around 73. Notable time periods

DOWN 1. Mint devices 2. Actor Murphy 3. Leave out, as a syllable 4. Coin takers 5. Gabs 6. At least once 7. It often comes down to this 8. Empty-vehicle weight 9. Clean and jerk alternative 10. Kind, derogatorily 11. Railings 12. Windows image 13. Collectors' goals 21. Taste, as wine 22. More than implied 26. Courtroom bargain 28. A lot?

29. Mousy color 31. Keiko of "Free Willy", for one 32. Home out on a limb 33. Popular season 34. Bar buys 35. Campers' burdens 37. "It's ___ a pleasure" 40. Resembling 44. Mark with a branding iron 46. Showing sincerity 49. Surgeon's request 51. Bounder 52. Vehement speech 55. More miffed 56. Tennis champ Dementieva 57. Bundle in the field 58. "Tosca" solo 60. Induce, in a way 61. Brown-skinned fruit 62. Expresses curiosity 63. "Bonny" belle 65. Call for attention

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TraveL

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

QUEST FOR ADVENTURE

Cruise stunning Kimberley Coast  JOHN NEWTON S an increasing number of upmarket small ships ply the stunning Kimberley coast, one of the first cruise vessels to explore the region has been spruced up to challenge the competition, Kimberley Quest, which has been cruising the Kimberley region for more than 25 years, has just completed an extensive refit for the start of the 2022 season.

Since 2019 when the new owners - Kimberley locals and long=time tourism operators, Bryce McGlashan and Sophie Thomas - bought the vessel, they’ve invested close to $2m on improvements.

Now Kimberley Quest, with its helipad and helicopter for touring, is ready for the new season featuring a range of cruises from four to 21 days with a maximum of 18 passengers for the next nine months. There are nine cabins – double, superior and exclusive flybridge.

The cruise schedule – from now until October – incorporates the northern Kimberley to take advantage of the end of the wet season and the running waterfalls and the southern Kimberley – from June to October – to experience the spring-fed waterholes.

Among the cruises exploring the unspoilt natural beauty of the Kimberley region is an eight-day ‘Northern Quest’ - which has cabins available, Departing Kununurra on May 10, the ship sails through the northern half of the Kimberley, from Wyndham to the Mitchell River, including a helicopter flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago and Mitchell Falls.

It’s priced at $12,350 per person.

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The boutique cruise company’s General Manager Clare Marquis said the last-minute availability was due to Western Australia’s ongoing border restrictions. “Our tour schedule is usually sold out many months in advance, so it usually requires much forward planning, but with the border opening delayed, we now have some availability,” she said.

Winner of several tourism awards, Kimberley Quest has a host of onboard facilities, including a helipad and helicopter for touring with options such as Horizontal Falls and Turtle Reef, King George Falls, Montgomery Falls and Prince Regent River.

And there’s a spa on the sundeck; an 11m, 20-passenger shaded fast boat for

excursions; three alfresco deck areas, including fully seated outside and an inside area; widescreen plasma TV and DVD, plus quality sound system inside and out; satellite phone and internet. Wifi is available for purchase, an extensive library with extensive Kimberley reference books, 24-hour tea and coffee facilities with expresso machine and two ice machines and complimentary laundry service.

Kimberley Quest, which is licensed for liquor sales, is designed to be a relaxing, luxe way to take in the spectacular sights of the region – unseen by most Australians.

For those wanting to get out and about, there are tender and fishing excursions, guided walks ancient rock art viewing, opportunities to swim in freshwater

holes and the chance to see humpback whales from July to September, as well as tours with the vessel’s experienced local naturalist, Tim Willing.

Three meals a day are prepared by onboard chefs offering, among other things, an array for fresh fish and other seafood.

Highest quality meats, freshly baked breads, along with some of the best local produce.

The cabins feature a spacious ensuite, small fridge, large viewing window, reading lights, individual split system air conditioning, wardrobe and shelf and large dressing mirror.

Bookings and enquiries: 08 9193 6131 or Kimberleyquest.com.au https://www.facebook. com/kimberleyquest

Games Solutions

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

25

TrendS

LOOKING FOR A NEW JOB IN 2022?

Most want to work from home

“

With an increasingly tightening labor market with heavily pronounced candidate shortages, salaries are now back to firstplace ranking, and are expected to remain up there in 2022.”

– Mark smith.

USSIE’S love affair with working from home will lead to one in four employees looking for a career change this year.

And we will be looking for an increase in salary at the same time according to people2people recruitment’s latest online polls.

The polls revealed the main drivers for those looking for new roles in 2022, with salary leading the way at 42.1%, followed by company culture 23%, workplace flexibility 19.7% and job security 15.1%.

Managing Director of people2people recruitment Mark Smith said the labor

A

market had been rapidly changing since March 2020 and work flexibility was previously the second biggest factor, after company culture.

“However, with an increasingly tightening labor market with heavily pronounced candidate shortages, salaries are now back to firstplace ranking, and are expected to remain up there in 2022.”

“With four in 10 employees looking to change jobs or career in 2022 and more being directly approached by other organisations due to candidate shortages, it is essential to make your staff feel valued and ensure they are aware of potential op-

portunities available to them within their organisation.”

Mr Smith’s advice for employers to navigate the post-Covid workplace includes: 1. Reinstate face-to-face check-ins with team members to assess where they are at and relay any concerns they may have.

2. Explore ways to convey your company culture at work and home offices, and share a 2022 plan highlighting any new initiatives and projects for the year ahead.

3. If it hasn’t been done yet, make sure you book your performance

and salary reviews this year or early January.

4. For those planning to return to the office full-time, ensure your workplace flexibility policy is reviewed and options are made available for the teams.

About people2people: • people2people is an Australasian recruitment company built on an established reputation for providing professional and personalised recruitment services since early 2005.

FitnesS

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

LOSE 3KG IN 3 WEEKS

Without going on a “diet”  FITNESS | ADAM SIMPSON OSING weight is a simple equation, but that does not make it easy. The chances are you have heard someone in the health and fitness industry mention “calories in vs calories out”.

This is the only way that weight loss can occur, however there are many methods or protocols that you can follow to reach a calorie deficit and get your unwanted body fat shifting.

I am not a huge advocate of giving people strict meal plans where they must follow every recipe and ingredient to the letter. In my opinion, I don’t think this is a realistic long-term solution for people to achieve results. However, if someone were to stick to something like this they would see great results.

Instead, I like to encourage people to make simple dietary changes to what they are currently already doing.

The idea being, that it should be easier to implement as there is no need to completely overhaul their current lifestyle. Which in turn should mean that they are more likely to stick to it long term and long-term consistency is the key.

I will list below some of the more common habits that I see people going wrong with. Identify, a few that resonate with you and make the change.

For the next three weeks I want you to implement some of these strategies and see what results you yield.

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1. Eating dessert too often – There is nothing wrong with enjoying a good dessert, but you don’t need to eat dessert every day of the week. Especially if you are someone with a weight loss goal. Cut it down to a couple of times a week and you will significantly reduce your total calories consumed.

2. Drinking too many calories – Whether it is alcohol, soft drinks, sugary juices or whatever. Drinking too many calories is an easy

weight to stifle your weight loss goals. Deliberately reduce your drinking days and again you will significantly reduce your total calories consumed. Try picking out 3 days a week where you drink 0 calories and opt for more water.

3. Skimping out on carbohydrates – Yes, reducing your carbohydrate intake is one way of reducing your total calories consumed, but often it doesn’t work very

well. Many people will reduce their carbohydrate intake for breakfast and lunch to then find they crash at 3pm and find themselves reaching for something sweet. Instead, have a portion of carbohydrates with every meal and avoid the afternoon energy slump.

4. Mindless eating – Calories in vs calories out is what truly matters, so be more mindful of everything you are eating, it all adds up. The extra little chocolates, biscuits and other little treats that we mindlessly eat all count. An extra 150 calories a day added up all week could mean the difference between losing or gaining weight.

5. Weekend blow outs – It can be easy to undo all of your hard work on a weekend by eating and drinking over the top. Your total calories for the week count, so be mindful and just don’t go overboard.

For many of you, implementing the above and just being more honest with yourself on how much you are really consuming will be enough to elicit a weight loss. Over the next 3 weeks, be mindful of your choices and I guarantee that you will start to see some weight shift.

Adam Simpson is lead trainer and founder at Repetitions Group fitness and Personal Training.

Visit: www.repetitionspt.com.au

FilM

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

27

Uncharted – 3 Stars A fun, fizzy action-adventure that disperses with an attempt at being anything other than a trashy popcorn flick.

ATHAN Drake (Tom Holland) is an amateur treasure hunter, who is headhunted by Sully (Mark Whalberg); a more experienced, but evidently ruthless collector of artifacts of historical significance.

Turns out they’re both looking for the same thing; a hoard of treasure, rumored to be worth more than $6B, amassed by the famous explorer Ferdinand Magellan and lost 500 years ago by the House of Moncada. But they’ve got competition.

Firstly, there’s Santiago Moncada himself (Antonio Banderas), who is looking to resurrect his family’s lost fortunes. Then, there’s his lethal assassin Braddock (Tati Gabrielle) and her goons, who have history with Sully. Finally, there’s Chole Frazer (Sophia Ali), an independent treasure hunter who won’t let the fizzing chemistry between her and Drake stand in the way of the gold.

Based on the famous video game series, Uncharted is a film that is all about heightened action, out there visuals, and zippy one-liners in a video game-esque itemitem-item-treasure quest structure.

One of the most impressive things going for this movie is it’s ability to avoid many of the pitfalls that historically have

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befallen video game adaptations. For one, it doesn’t try to cram too much lore into the piece; video games have hundreds of hours in which to develop that history and world-building, but movies have only 2 or 3.

Here, Uncharted dives right into the action, and avoids the exposition dumps of

some of its ilk. Further, the film fully embraces the absolutely gonzo action of video game series. This isn’t a gritty, dark, realized take–it’s fun, colorful, and energetic.

There is plenty of banter between the two leads, and Wahlberg and Holland make it feel lived in and real. This despite the fact

that they don’t really capture the personalities of the video game characters. Nevertheless, you’re likely to still find yourself laughing away throughout, with a number of genuinely funny gags.

Plot wise, the movie doesn’t digress too much with explaining its reasoning, nor the attempting to bring logic to the proceedings. Sometimes, as in National Treasure, the script is painstakingly tracked to real life events, to bring a sense of reality to the treasure hunt. At other times, endless time is spent trying to justify an out there treasure that has no basis in fact, often without success. Here, the creative team just doesn’t bother too much with all of that, and the movie is more fun for it.

To be fair, there are plenty of quibbles to be had with this film. Yes, it doesn’t remotely capture the games characters, or emotional pathos. Yes, the visuals at times are too comic-y, with the gold looking fake as hell. But ultimately, it’s the sort of turn your brain off film that is impossible to not have fun with.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

Cyrano – 3 Stars Dinklage gives a nuanced performance that, despite his inability to match his co-stars in singing talent, brings pathos and warmth to this tragic romance.

YRANO de Bergerac (Peter Dinklage), a military man with no social standing, is in love with Roxanne (Haley Bennett), the most beautiful woman in Paris. Despite being best friends since childhood, and having loved her for almost the same time, he harbors no confidence in his love with her having a future; primarily due to his physical stature.

His heart is broken when he finds that Roxanne has fallen in love at first sight with Christian (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), a man she has never spoken to, only seen.

As the leacherous De Guiche (Ben Mendelsohn) threatens to make Roxanne his bride, and Roxanne bids our titular hero to befriend her would-be love, Cyrano decides to help Christian win her heart by writing beautiful letters, in which Cyrano simultaneously pours out his own heart, while building Christian’s bonafides in Roxanne’s eyes. In the end, it’s a treacherous situation which can have only one conclusion.

The truth will out, but will it be Christian or Cyrano that Roxanne chooses (and then, only if she can disentangle herself from the villainous De Guiche).

Director Joe Wright has taken a bit of a critical drubbing in recent years, with his much-maligned Pan (which we kind

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of loved anyway) following the similarly disparaged Anna Karenina.

There was a recent bright spot with Darkest Hour, but The Woman In The Window, a COVID-impacted release that got shunted to Netflix for both the cinema landscape and the quality of the picture, further dented the ouevre of a man who burst out the gates with Pride & Prejudice and the brilliant Atonement.

One thing that cannot be said for Wright, however, is that he plays it safe.

Whether it’s the beautiful long take oneshot in Atonement, or the garish

colours of Pan, Wright swings for the fences with everything he makes, sometimes to his detriment. Cyrano, too, harkens back to a musicality of old, with a visual landscape that is gorgeous, artistic and at times OTT. There’s beauty and fantasy here for sure, but also mixed in with the grittiness we’ve come to expect from modern musical-to-screen adaptations.

The caked-on makeup of De Guiche at the theatre in the opening scene is reminiscent of the grimy realness of Les Miserables, while the overlaid triptych of faces as the three leads perform a song together in flickering candlelight feels more like The Phantom of the Opera. It’s a heady mix of old and new sensibilities, that gives way to a strange feeling of dullness at times, and sheer wonder at others.

From a performance perspective, Dinklage gives a nuanced, towering performance. Incredibly expressive with his face, the actor doesn’t shy away from conveying

the multitudinous emotions of his character in every action, gesture and expression.

His performance can’t be matched by any in the group of assembled co-stars, and he shines by comparison. At least, that is, until he starts to sing. His vocal tones certainly leave a lot to be desired, and when compared with the operatic rest of cast, he struggles to hold his own musically.

Plot-wise, the piece is crushing emotionally but engaging throughout. Interestingly, the action is quite intense and well put together, which for a musical is an achievement. Occasionally, the dancing and staging is also compelling, with Christian’s big first scene in the barracks being a standout. It’s a shame, however, that there isn’t more whimsy, more engaging and inspiring dancing, and a more ambitious visual aesthetic.

Particularly from a director who so frequently swings for the fences, there are moments here that feel too safe. Then, of course, there’s also plenty of moments when you wish it would speed along so that you don’t have to listen to Dinklage sing more.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

28

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

YOU CAN HELP THE SALVOS HELP OUR COMMUNITY! To support your local Salvos

SCAN AND DONATE

DirectorY

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

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EntertainmenT

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

Blacktown Night Markets are back and Riverstone Markets launched LACKTOWN City Mayor Tony Bleasdale has announced the long-awaited return of the Blacktown Night Markets and launch of the first ever Riverstone Night Markets.

The vibrant food markets will return to Blacktown Council’s calendar of events after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the first time, the Blacktown Night Markets will be held at the new Warrick Lane redevelopment in the heart of Blacktown’s CBD. “I invite everyone to come on down and celebrate the return of the Blacktown Night Markets in a brand-new location,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“I’m also excited to announce the launch of the Riverstone Night Markets, which I’m sure will be a fantastic event for the whole family.

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The Blacktown Night Markets are back after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Blacktown Night Markets will feature a full array of food trucks while the Riverstone Night Markets will add stalls and live music to the occasion.

“It’s great to have these markets back on in Blacktown City after what has been a challenging time for us all.

“Blacktown City is back open for business–so please come on down, support these vendors and soak up the atmosphere.”

For more details, visit the website: https://www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Events-and-activities

Blacktown Night Markets Thursday, 10 March 2022–5pm-9pm Warrick Lane Precinct, Warrick Lane, Blacktown

Riverstone Night Markets Saturday, 12 March 2022–5pm-9pm Bambridge Lane, Riverstone

David Williamson’s Third World Blues ENRY Lawson Theatre is proud to welcome you back to the theatre this month as it presents David Williamson’s Third World Blues.

Directed by Heather McGreal of Blaxland, Williamson revisits his early play Jugglers Three, set in Australia against the background of the Vietnam War and first performed in 1972.

Graham (Matthew Doherty of Petersham) is a conscript and has just returned from Vietnam, keen to see his wife, Keren (Amber-Mai Feeley of Westmead).

The reunion gets complicated when Keren’s lover Neville (Anthony Ashdown of Penrith) arrives, followed by Neville’s pregnant wife, Elizabeth (Diane Darlington of Glenmore Park).

On top of this domestic comedy comes Graham’s reverberating question about the need to stop the war and the politics of protest.

Making her directorial debut, McGreal said she first saw the play as Third World Blues in its first performance at the Opera House as a year 10 drama student and wanted to bring it to life.

“I fell in love with humanity of the characters, all so beautifully flawed and real,” she said.

“The play has no perfect hero or dastardly villain as each character encompasses both hero and villain in their own story.

“When I started to consider directing a show, this one came to mind as on that I would love to see alive again.”

The Cast

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Graham – Matthew Doherty (Petersham) Matthew studied performance at Western Sydney University and continued his studies at the Actor’s Centre Australia.

Since then he has appeared on stage in dozens of plays. He will be appearing in Glenbrook Players’ production of Cloud Street later in the year. He said Third World Blues is a “captivating play”, and is very excited to be part of such an incredible cast and production.

The cast of Third World Blues.

Preparations for the production began in 2020 with plans for a September performance but was only able to audition for parts in June 2021.

“The dedicated cast has worked through illness, lockdown, and doubt to bring this amazingly work of David Williamson to life,” she said.

“Seeing it brought to life on stage has shown me facets of characters I thought I knew so well. It’s a play that truly understands the complex nuance that is being human.”

Third World Blues will run from Friday March 4 to Saturday March 19 at the Henry Lawson Theatre, 144 Henry Lawson Avenue, Werrington County. Tickets $25 adult, $20 Concession/returned service men and women. Bookings: Henrylawsontheatre.com.au

Keren – Amber-Mai Feeley (Westmead) This is Amber-Mai’s first production with Henry Lawson Theatre, stepping onto the stage as Keren. Having just completed a Bachelor of Creative Arts at The Academy of Film, Theatre and Television, Amber-Mai is ecstatic to perform with such a talented cast in her first show post-graduation. Her recent production was William Shakespeare’s The Tempest at the Casula Powerhouse, Amber-Mai is excited to portray Keren in this production as the character is very different to her standard roles.

Neville – Anthony Ashdown Anthony hails from a long career as a dancer. Growing up in Penrith, he studied ballet under the loving hand of Jennifer Attrill. After graduating from the National Theatre Ballet School he went on to perform for the Melbourne Ballet Company before hitting the high seas with Norwegian Cruise Lines and the Jean Anne Ryan

production company. He has since gone on to direct his first production "The things I could never tell Steven".

Elizabeth – Diane Darlington (Glenmore Park) Dianne Darlington returns for her sixth role with the Henry Lawson Theatre as Elizabeth. She has also played woodwind instruments in the orchestra for both Penrith and Blue Mountains musical societies and is a saxophone player with Blue Mountains Concert Band.

Jamie – MJ Krivansky (Blue Mountains) Hatched many years ago in Sydney, then was moved west to the Blue Mountains as a DJ, MJ also dabbled in short films and learned how to breathe fire, since then, has been a suit character, commenced writing a book, been an extra in a web-based series and developed his his skills in audio and lighting. This is his first time treading the boards and we think you will love him!

Greg – Aurel Vasilescu (St Clair) Aurel was bitten by the stage bug after performing with Cumberland Gang Show in 2001, 2002 & 2003 appearing in many musicals and plays around Sydney as set construction/painting and photography work for community theatre groups. Aurel says “I hope that I’m able to do this for a while longer, as one of the great joys of community theatre is the friendships formed and being able to help our audiences forget what worries them for a while.”

ISSUE 12 | March 2022

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FINALLY….IT’S GAME TIME

Men are fired up and ready  BOB TURNER FTER a disappointing close to the 2021 season, Blacktown City FC Senior Men are fired up to get back on the field.

Leading the NPL 1 Men’s competition last year after 17 of 22 rounds, Covid put an end to the 2021 season as Football NSW made the call to terminate the season.

Kicking off the 2022 season in style, on Thursday, February 17, Blacktown City FC held its season launch at Bowman Hall, courtesy of Blacktown City Council.

It was a significant and historical evening with Blacktown City featuring its first Senior Women’s team to coincide with the Men’s 2022 season launch.

The two teams were welcomed by Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale, former Mayor, and now state member for Blacktown, Stephen Bali, Deputy Mayor Brad Bunting, Councillors Carol Israel and Julie Griffiths, as well as special guest MC, Stephanie Brantz.

The combination of the two teams enters a new era for Blacktown City FC. The Men’s program has earned a National reputation for developing young talent and always being competitive in the Football NSW NPL 1 Men’s competition.

It took 69 years, but in 2022 Blacktown City is fielding its first Senior Women’s team with a goal to match the men’s development credibility within three years.

An immediate enhancement for the women, was the announcement prior to Christmas by Mark Taylor, State Member for Seven Hills, that Blacktown City had been successful in their grant application for female changerooms under the main grandstand.

Senior Men’s Coach, Mark Crittenden has primed his team with an extensive pre-season schedule.

Commencing with a training camp in preparation for the FFA Cup qualifier against Central Coast Mariners last November, Coach Crittenden continued a rigorous training schedule including a total of 10 practice games, as he prepares for an extremely competitive 2022 season.

Blacktown City was victorious in all 10 games played against a mixed variety of opponents.

“I am very happy with our preparation and the intensity we have shown throughout the pre-season,” said Coach Crittenden.

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Launch of the 2022 season.

Returning Captain Matt Lewis added: “We have added experience with the return of Mitch Mallia and recruited young talent in Jordan Smylie from the Central Coast Mariners and Jake Trew from the Wanderers who have all fitted in well with the bulk of last year’s squad”.

The Men will kick off the season this Sunday, March 6, at home against Rock-

dale. Rockdale is touted as a Top Three finisher in the competition so the opening game of the season for Blacktown City will test the extensive pre-season work. Game time is 3pm with the Under 20’s at 1pm.

All home games will be played at the newly named Blacktown City Sports Centre (formerly Lily Homes Stadium) located at 5 Quinn Avenue, Seven Hills.

Blacktown City FC has taken over full operational control of their stadium, regarded as one of the most well-known and used stadiums in the country and are constantly making improvements to the ground and its facilities.

Bob Turner is Executive Chairman of Blacktown City FC. Visit www. blacktowncityfc.com.au

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ISSUE 12 | March 2022

How to choose a university course that’s right for you Some people just know what they want to study at university. They cruise through high school with a clear view of their pathway to a degree. But for many others, choosing the right course can seem like the impossible decision.

“I’ve had lots of conversations with students at subject selection evenings where they come in and say, ‘I have no idea what I want to do with my life’,” says Cara Vanzini, a careers advisor with Australian Catholic University’s (ACU’s) Careers and Employability.

So how do you find your dream course (let alone your dream job) if you don’t have a clue where to start?

“If someone has absolutely no idea what they want to do, one of the first questions I ask is, ‘What do you do in your spare time?’,” Cara says.

“I remember one girl just shrugging and saying, ‘I just spend time with my friends’. And I said to her, ‘Well, maybe you need to look at career choices where you are working with people’. We started identifying what some of those careers were, and her mum standing behind her said, ‘Oh, that’s the best advice we’ve had all year’.”

Finding your ideal degree might therefore be as simple as answering a few questions.

What are your interests? How do you like spending your time? What are you good at?

Which experiences have left a lasting impression?

Wise people will tell you that many of life’s big decisions aren’t just about what you want to do; they’re about who you want to be. That’s why it’s important to choose a career path that aligns with your passions, interests and values.

“We need to realise that we spend most of our lives at work, so we should focus on developing the skills and qualifications that allow us to enjoy what we do, and to feel good about it,” says Cara, who worked in ACU’s Equity Pathways program for five years before commencing with Careers and Employability in 2018.

It’s important to note that even those who do know what degree they want to pursue have to think about university entry requirements and prerequisites.

What if you have your heart set on a Bachelor of Laws or a Bachelor of Biomedical Science but you

don’t quite make the ATAR cut-off?

It’s always good to have a back-up plan, Cara says, but a lower ATAR than expected does not determine your endpoint.

Thankfully, universities like ACU provide alternative pathways and entry programs to help smooth the way to your chosen course.

For example, the Foundation Studies program at the Blacktown Campus provides you with another path into university if you haven’t got an ATAR, or your ATAR isn’t what you were hoping for. This fee-free program will prepare you for study at ACU by immersing you in university life while introducing you to a range of foundation units.

ACU has just introduced a raft of new diploma courses which are a great way to study before taking on a bachelor degree. There is also a helpful Pathway Finder tool to find out what pathway options are available for your chosen course.

If you successfully complete a pathway program, you may be able to gain credit towards your ACU degree, and in some cases, go straight into the second year of the program.

On the flipside, if you do excel in the ATAR, it’s best not to let anyone pressure you to enrol in a course with a high cut-off just because you can.

“I would really warn against forcing someone into a four-year degree just because their ATAR is high when their passion lies with something completely different,” Cara says.

“In the end, the ATAR is only reflective of how sought-after a course is, not necessarily the

quality of the course, or the prestige within the industry itself.”

To discuss the courses and pathway options available to you, ACU is running a webinar on 9 December and an online event on 21 January to help you decide what course to apply for.

Ready to explore your opportunities For more information: What to study at ACU: acu.edu.au/courses Information sessions: acu.edu.au/changeofpreference

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Study at ACU Blacktown yourfuture.acu.edu.au