SCREENX COMING TO BLACKTOWN
BLACKTOWN RATES RISE DEBATE
MOBILE MEDICS
STREET Side Medics (SSM), a not-for-profit, GP-led mobile medical service dedicated to people experiencing homelessness has launched in the Blacktown and North West regions. Located at Carevan Blacktown at Lalor Park Community Hall the SSM clinic will operate Tuesdays from 6.30pm - 8.30pm. Street Side Medics is the brainchild of 2022 Young Australian of the Year Dr Daniel Nour, providing free primary healthcare to vulnerable Australians via fully equipped and customised mobile medical units. More page 6.
Blacktown City
FOGO update - red-lidded bin swaps
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What you need to do:
• Wait to use the 140L red lidded bin, until we remove your 240L red lidded bin.
• Leave your 240L red lidded bin out on collection day until 3 pm.
For those who selected the small waste service, we’re swapping the 140L red-lidded bin to the 80L red-lidded bin from January 2026. Visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/delivery to see when your bin will be swapped out.
The delivery of the new food and garden waste bin follows the NSW Government mandate for councils to introduce a food and garden waste bin to households by 2030.
Blacktown City’s increasingly popular Diwali Lights Competition is back in 2025!
With up to $2500 in cash prizes are available for the best decorated properties across our City’s 5 Wards. Nominations close on Monday 13 October 2025 at 5 pm
We encourage all backgrounds of residents to get involved by decorating their home with lights.
To view the terms and conditions including judging dates, please visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/DiwaliLightsComp
Building a better community
Blacktown City Council is conducting a community consultation on a proposed Special Rate Variation — an increase above the standard annual rate cap, to keep up with rapid growth and ensure our services don’t fall behind.
For more information and to have your say, visit blacktown.nsw.gov.au/SRV
SCREENX coming soon to Blacktown
HOYTS Cinemas is bringing blockbuster experiences to the next level with the launch of SCREENX at Blacktown later this year.
SCREENX transforms the way guests experience films by taking key scenes beyond the main screen onto the side walls, expanding out into a 270-degree panoramic view that will make cinematic moments hit even harder.
Using multiple projectors, it blends a seamless image that fills the viewer’s peripheral vision, placing audiences in the centre of the story for a truly immersive cinematic experience. Key features of SCREENX at HOYTS include:
• Panoramic 270-degree visuals that extend the movie onto the auditorium’s left and right walls during scenes that require the audience’s full immersion;
• Exclusive visual elements produced in close collaboration with directors, filmmakers and studios;
• High-quality surround sound for complete sensory immersion.
HOYTS Group CEO & President Damian Keogh said the launch marks major step in the company’s commitment to innovation, quality and outstanding guest experiences.
“Today’s moviegoers want more than just a film, they want an immersive experience that transports them into the story,” Damian said.
“Whether it’s the spectacle of a
blockbuster, the thrill of a horror, or the joy of a family favourite, SCREENX offers an entirely new way to connect with the movie. Our guests will feel fully immersed as the action extends beyond the main screen.”
CJ 4DPLEX America President & CEO Don Savant said the company is thrilled to collaborate with HOYTS Cinemas to introduce their very first SCREENX auditoriums.
“A film is no longer bound to the main screen as stories grow beyond the frame of a traditional cinema. Together, this partnership will redefine the on-screen spectacle for HOYTS’ guests, bringing the world’s first multi-projection cinematic experience to more audiences worldwide,” Don said.
Blacktown already features Xtremescreen, D-BOX Motion Recliners and Daybeds.
The addition of SCREENX introduces another level of immersion, giving moviegoers even more ways to experience the big picture.
50 years for Mount Druitt Community Health Centre
MOUNT Druitt Community Health Centre is celebrating 50 years of service, a milestone which highlights the centre’s proud history of delivering care and support to Western Sydney communities. To mark a half century of provid-
ing services to the public, staff held a community event celebrating the centre’s past achievements and ongoing commitment to providing exceptional healthcare. The community health centre, otherwise known as the polyclinic, was the main medical
Kemps Creek Memorial Park
A peaceful place to honour and remember
centre in the area before the Mount Druitt Hospital opened in 1982. From an infant’s first checks at the antenatal clinic, to Child and Family health, Youth health and beyond, the centre has played a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of Mount
Located in Sydney’s west, Kemps Creek Memorial Park offers a serene setting with personalised options to suit every family and tradition.
› Traditional lawn and monumental graves
› Natural burial options in a tranquil bushland setting
Druitt residents and the broader Western Sydney Local Health District. Emond Atalla, Member for Mount Druitt said he is proud to be celebrating the Mount Druitt Community Health Centre’s incredible milestone with the local community.
› Cremation memorials and gardens
› Outdoor pavilion for services and family gatherings
› Monthly memorial Masses and Grief Care support
Experience compassionate service, flexible choices, and a setting that reflects the dignity your loved ones deserve.
Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.
Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.
You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money.
• Spacious, designer interiors
• Landscaped grounds
• Two to five-bedroom layouts
• Private porches and courtyards
• Family-friendly living areas
• Premium finishes and inclusions
• Tranquil locations
Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.
Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
Banksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Residences -
Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
STREET SIDE MEDICS LAUNCH LOCALLY Mobile medical service for vulnerable
STREET Side Medics, a notfor-profit, GP-led mobile medical service dedicated to people experiencing homelessness has launched locally to cover the Blacktown and North West regions.
Located at Carevan Blacktown at Lalor Park Community Hall the Street Side Medics clinic will operate every Tuesday from 6.30pm - 8.30pm.
Street Side Medics is the brainchild of 2022 Young Australian of the Year Dr Daniel Nour. Street Side Medics provides free primary healthcare to vulnerable Australians via fully equipped and customised mobile medical units which on a weekly basis visit areas with demographically high concentrations of people experiencing homelessness.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 Census [i], 1,601 people were experiencing homelessness in the Blacktown LGA, with the most common form being people living in “severely” crowded
low-income households.
“We’ve found the barriers to accessing services by people experiencing homelessness include a lack of awareness of available services, prohibitive costs, lack of transport, the level of documentation required, stigma and embarrassment, previous negative experiences and distrust.
“Street Side Medics provides a bulk billing service with only a Medicare payment, but for those without Medicare, or any other limitations preventing Medicare payment, we have a no-turn-away policy and will see all patients free of charge.”
A further 244 people were in supported accommodation,
The ABS data indicates that the Blacktown area also faces affordability pressures, with a median weekly household income of $1,424 (lower than the NSW average of $1,558), while median weekly rent was higher at $345 (compared to the NSW average of $340). Median monthly mortgage repayments were also above the state average, at $2,000 compared with $1,755.
Blacktown City Council’s 2024 population data shows
the LGA is one of the fastest growing in the state, with a population of 438,843 in 2024, which is an increase of 12,768 from the previous year. The unemployment rate remains above the NSW average, at 5.8 percent compared with 4.9 percent statewide.
Currently operating across NSW and Victoria with plans for national expansion, Street Side Medics runs in collaboration with existing food services, shelters and other homelessness-focussed service providers
at each of its clinic locations to help alleviate the burdens faced by vulnerable communities in accessing primary healthcare.
“With the support of our invaluable partners and volunteer medical practitioners, Street Side Medics can help. By providing our walk-in service at the same location weekly, our aim is to not only improve the catchment of patients but also, to build rapport with them as we attend to their healthcare concerns,” said Street Side Medics CEO Nic Brown.
General practice services provided by Street Side Medics include (but are not limited to): general health check-ups, chronic disease screening, acute infectious screening (including HIV, Hep C, Hep B, STI’s) immunisations, pathology services, diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, screening tests and Medicare care plans, nutritional advice, minor surgical procedures and referrals to appropriate medical specialists.
Visit: www.streetsidemedics.com.au.
Launch of the local SSM program.
OCTOBER SATURDAY 25TH
NewMayorDeputy for Blacktown
COUNCILLOR Carol Israel has become the new Deputy Mayor for Blacktown City Council.
Cr Israel, who lives in Woodcroft, was first elected to Council in 2016 and represents Ward 3.
Cr Israel said she was honoured to take on the role.
“I am proud to serve the people of Blacktown City. This is a vibrant, diverse and growing city, and I will continue to work to help shape its future, ensuring we have the facilities, open spaces and opportunities that every resident needs,” she said. Council acknowledged the contribution of outgoing Deputy Mayor Councillor Bob Fitzgerald, who served the city over the past 12 months.
Reducing e-bike fire risk on trains
TRAIN passengers and staff will be less at risk from lithium-ion battery fires because of a ban on converted e-bikes on the NSW rail network.
Converted e-bikes are defined as regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors. These have higher risk of electrical failure due and fire risk due to DIY installations, inadequate wiring and use of second-hand batteries and incompatible or poor-quality components.
Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be impacted, however Transport for NSW will monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely.
The decision will not apply to travel on concourses, lifts, escalators, or bike storage facilities outside of the fare gates. Riders passing through community access gates will not be impacted.
The growing popularity of e-bikes has meant a greater prevalence on our train network. Due to the risk of e-bike lithium-ion batteries igniting, and the additional risk posed by poorly made and modified devices, it will be illegal to take a converted e-bike on Sydney
Trains, NSW Trainlink and Metro services from November 1.
Carriage of a restricted converted e-bike would carry a penalty notice offence of $400 with a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units ($1,110).
This is comparable to the existing offence for carrying a petrol-powered device on a train or railway premises.
Ahead of the ban coming into effect, passengers are being asked not to bring any converted e-bikes on these services.
Transport has been moni-
CASTLEREAGH IMAGING
Now Open in Bungarribee: Castlereagh Imaging Expands to Blacktown region
We’re excited to announce the launch of Castlereagh Imaging’s newest location in Bungarribee — our twelfth practice across greater Sydney.
Conveniently situated opposite Blacktown International Sports Park, our Bungarribee site brings cutting-edge medical imaging even closer to the Rooty Hill and Blacktown communities.
This new opening reflects our continued commitment to making industry leading diagnostic services more accessible, wherever patients need them. Offering exceptional off street parking, our new practice features the latest in imaging technology — including digital X-ray, low-dose CT, high-resolution ultrasound, and an advanced 1.5T MRI scanner — delivering fast, accurate results to support better health outcomes for both patients and referring clinicians.
From routine scans to more complex diagnostics, our local Castlereagh Imaging team is dedicated to creating a supportive experience tailored to the unique needs of the local Rooty Hill and Blacktown communities.
toring the risk of lithium-ion fires after two recent e-bike fires including at Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike).
So far this year Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-micromobility related lithium-ion battery fires.
To support the ban of converted e-bikes on trains, Transport will provide additional training for staff, conduct hotspot blitzes, and increase public messaging about the fire risk of modified devices.
Leading our Bungarribee clinical team is Thomas Hanna, a highly experienced radiographer with deep ties in the local area. Thomas brings a passion for combining clinical excellence with personalised care, ensuring every patient receives the attention and expertise they deserve.
As part of the Sonic Healthcare family, Castlereagh Imaging is backed by a global network of trusted healthcare providers — all driven by shared values of quality, integrity, and compassionate care.
“We’re proud to open our doors in Bungarribee and bring advanced imaging services to Rooty Hill and Blacktown,” says Thomas Hanna, Chief Radiographer at Castlereagh Imaging Bungarribee. “This new practice is designed to deliver exceptional diagnostics in a welcoming, patient-first environment.”
The new Castlereagh Imaging practice at Bungarribee is now open and accepting appointment requests. To request an appointment online visit: https://www.casimaging.com.au/patients/request-an-appointment
An e-bike catches fire.
Council’s free swim teacher training
WITH Australia recording its highest number of drowning deaths since records began (National Drowning Report 2025), Blacktown Council is stepping up to improve water safety and create new jobs.
Since COVID-19, the number of qualified swim teachers across Australia has not kept pace with demand, leaving many families without access to swimming lessons.
To help address the shortage, Blacktown City Council has launched a free in-house training program that removes cost barriers and creates a pathway into the industry.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the program was about breaking down barriers.
B“This program is about saving lives and creating jobs. By removing the cost of training, we’re opening the door for more local people to start a rewarding career while helping more families access vital swim lessons,” Mayor Bunting said.
The program is designed using national competency standards.
While it is not formally accredited, graduates will have the skills and knowledge to complete a nationally recognised qualification with Royal Life Saving Society, Austswim or Swim Australia.
See more about Blacktown’s aquatic and leisure centres, www. blacktownaquaticandsports.com.au
Elara intersection works have started
LACKTOWN City Council has announced that construction has started on the intersection upgrade at Elara Boulevard and Northbourne Drive at Marsden Park.
This upgrade follows community consultation and continues the partnership between Blacktown City Council and Deputy Premier and Member for Londonderry, Prue Car.
Mayor of Blacktown City Brad Bunting said the new roundabout will deliver a new roundabout for to improve safety and traffic flow
for Marsden Park residents
“Local shoppers, families, and Aspire Village residents have all told me these changes will make a real difference. It is great to see work getting underway as we keep building better communities. Marsden Park is growing so quickly, and we need to make sure our roads are safe for everyone who move through this area each day,” Mayor Bunting said.
What is being delivered?
• A roundabout to calm traffic and improve pedestrian safety.
• Raised pedestrian crossings
away from the roundabout, installed in stages.
• Extended median islands to prevent illegal turns.
• Traffic calming measures including speed humps.
• Enlarged existing roundabouts on Elara Boulevard where required.
• A new raised pedestrian crossing on Elara Boulevard, west of the intersection with Allott Street.
• New bus stops on both sides of Elara Boulevard, along with parking restrictions on Parish Street’s western side.
• These improvements will sup-
port access to Elara Village Shopping Centre, Aspire Retirement Village, local schools, and sporting grounds.
NSW Deputy Premier and Member for Londonderry, Prue Car said: “This intersection was one of the biggest issues raised with me coming into government, and I thank residents for their tireless advocacy. I’m proud to be part of a government that is delivering better, safer roads for Marsden Park, and to be working closely with Blacktown City Council to make it happen.”
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SWR 99.9 FM –Loud, Live & Local!
OUR SPONSORS:
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Contact SWR 99.9 FM
The BCMP is a unique collaboration between Chifley College Bidwill Campus and the Blacktown News where students write and create a mainstream digital and print newspaper section that shares news about school life and the Bidwill local community. bidwill@accessnews.com.au
Edition 4 | October 2025
Online edition is hosted permanently at www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au
VICTOR CHANG AWARDS RECIPIENTS
Celebrating our love of science
BY SANDRA STEPHEN AND JULIUS JAN REYES
ON August 21 two Year 11 Bidwill students, Sandra Stephen and Julius Jan Reyes attended a Blacktown City Council event as recipients of the Victor Chang Science Award.
Established in 2004 in honour of pioneering cardiac surgeon Dr. Victor Chang, this award recognises talented young students with a passion for science.
The annual School Science Awards are organised by Blacktown City Council in partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute.
Their purpose is to encourage growth in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), inspiring students to pursue these disciplines at the tertiary level and beyond.
Our students attended the ceremony with their parents and grandparents, who expressed how proud they were and how this recognition would motivate their children to continue striving for academic success. Julius and Sandra were
interviewed about this tremendous achievement:
What is the Victor Chang School Science Award?
Sandra: “Victor Chang School Science Awards are given to students around Sydney and Australia who have done outstanding work in science. It’s also for commemorating Victor Chang himself. “
Julius: “Victor Chang did revolutionary work as a cardiologist / heart surgeon.”
Well, that leads me to the next question I was going to ask, which is, who was Dr Victor Chang?
Julius: “Well, if you just search up his name there's going to be a phrase which states that he was known as the most prominent doctor in the southern hemisphere. He was an amazing man, a hero who was tragically assassinated.”
Sandra: “I think someone like that who did heart transplants should be remembered, so it’s such an honour to receive this award.”
Why were you both nominated for this award?
Sandra: “I was nominated for the award for doing outstanding work in science. I don’t think it was for any one thing, but more for just being consistent over a long period of time. What I love about science is how we learn about the really deep questions, like how the universe works and how life came to Earth.”
Julius: “I'd like to think that teachers at the school nominated me because of the high grades that I got in Maths and Physics. Both subjects really go hand in hand and help each other.”
What are your goals for the future?
Julius: “I'd like to work in the field of engineering, although that’s extremely broad and I'm not really sure as to what exactly, right, as of the moment. Electrical engineering seems interesting to me.”
Sandra: “I want to be a nurse like my mum. Maybe I could become a registered nurse and then become an
educator later in life. I'm not doing a School Based Apprenticeship (SBAT) because I’m on a university ATAR pathway.”
This year’s ceremony was especially meaningful for our school, as Lochlan McRae, now a successful Physics teacher, once received the same award as one of our top Science students in 2009.
His journey is a powerful reminder of where a passion for STEM can lead. Today, Lochlan continues to inspire and nurture a new generation of students, fostering their interest and achievements in STEM.
In reflecting on his own experience of receiving the award, Mr McRae stated that “Receiving the Victor Chang School Science Award sparked my passion for science and showed me the power of discovery. It inspired me to pursue a career in teaching, so I could help ignite that same curiosity in others.”
This is a very proud and memorable moment for our school community, with the awards to also be recognised at our Annual Presentation Night at Evans Theatre, Penrith on December 9.
Congratulations to Tanveer & Jalukshana in Year 11 who recently received this prestigious Science award!
BIDWILL BLOKES BREAKFAST CARNIVAL Embracing our community of support
BY PERSAIYCE KIRIAU-PAULO
ON Thursday, September 4, Chifley College Bidwill Campus celebrated its premiere community event, Bidwill Blokes Breakfast as a way of celebrating Father’s Day. Principal, Nat Doidge articulated the importance of the event to our community, saying: “Bidwill Blokes Breakfast is an annual event at Chifley College Bidwill Campus where we recognise and celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, cousins and non-family male family members who care for us, mentor us and give us love. As we celebrate today we remember and honour these men who add so much to our lives and for whom without their help we could not do what we do; and for those sacrifices today especially we say thank you,” he said.
This year’s event was bigger and better than ever before, with a carnival atmosphere created through the addition of amusement park rides such as the Super Slide, Round Up, Sizzler, Mini Ferris wheel, Dodgem cars and ‘Hot Shots’ basketball hoop throwing prize game. The day, which has been celebrated for well over ten years now, also included traditional events such as rock climbing, wood carving, exercise equipment competition, go kart racing, karaoke, gift bags and tractor rides.
But behind all the fairy floss, popcorn, Dutch pancakes, soft serve ice cream and hot food provided by Big Big Aloha and Ray Rayz kitchen lie the genuine desire to make a difference for families in the area. Community and youth outreach services which provide vital support to people in need such as Talk 2 Me Bro, Hibiscus Care Australia, Top Blokes Foundation, Talanoa, Learning Ground, the Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW, the ADF and SES were all present to centre the focus of the event upon empowering local families to access resources which they may never have otherwise heard of.
A Bidwill HQ staff member recounted the story of one mother who used the occasion to reach out to her estranged brother “just to call to let him know that I love him” after three years without communication.
Talk 2 Me Bro, which has a stated goal of ending male suicide, were handing out free T shirts and genuinely reaching out to local men, offering support, guidance and a sympa thetic ear to any fathers, husbands, uncles and brothers who attended the event.
Kate Bridgford, Regional Coordinator of Top Blokes Foundation said: “Top Blokes is a charity that works directly with young men in schools, delivering three-to-six-month early intervention programs. We’ve previously partnered with Bidwill Chifley College, where we’ve mentored over three groups of boys - around 50 young men in total - help-
ing to build resilience, improve mental health, and strengthen important life skills. All of our programs are run by qualified youth workers who live and work within the local community.
“At the Bidwill Blokes Breakfast, we were proud to support the community and connect with the young people. We shared one of our key tools, the ALEC model - Ask, Listen, Encourage, Check-in, which helps spark meaningful conversations between mates and encourages young men to look out for one another’s mental health.
We also spoke with the boys about six simple but powerful ways to look after their physical and mental wellbeing: sleep, exercise, diet, hygiene, hydration and routine. These practical strategies are easy to put into place and can make a real difference day to day. Thanks again for having us it was a privilege to be involved!!”
Year 10 Bidwill student, Persaiyce Kiriau-Paulo said: “This was a very good experience, it was great seeing so many fathers here today. Not many schools in Mount Druitt get the opportunity to experience days like this. Just this year I participated in two wellbeing programs. The first one was called ‘Talk your walk’, which was about setting goals and showing us how to achieve them. The second one was ‘Make your mark’, which was all about empowering Pacific Islander students to have greater self-belief and pride in where we come from.”
Bidwill Blokes Breakfast has a proud tradition in the community as it has been occurring for over 10 years now and has grown from strength to strength. It is a centrepiece event for the school and is all about community engagement, inviting families in and making them feel welcome.
Scenes form Bidwill Blokes Breakfast.
NAIDOC DAY CELEBRATIONS AT BIDWILL Cultural heritage and emerging leaders
BY THE YEAR-8 MEDIA MANIA CLASS
ON August 14, students, staff, and community members at Chifley College Bidwill Campus celebrated NAIDOC Day to reflect on and honor the place of First Nations people in Australian culture. It’s an important part of the yearly calendar in Australia which takes place between August 5 and 12, with this year's theme being The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. The theme pays tribute to 50 years of NAIDOC week and highlights the rising strength and emerging leadership of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are continuing cultural traditions and shaping the future.
With approximately one third of our school student population identifying as being Aboriginal, it is a vital component of our core values, organised by a committee consisting of teachers Tegan Misdom, Bianca Beale, Krystal Te Tai, Kelly Foster, Lauren Parsons, Donovan Boney and Aboriginal Education Officer Aunty Marilyn Hill. MP for Chifley Ed Husic was also in attendance.
The commemoration started with lessons delivered in class throughout the school on the significance of the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, which was a continuation of a series of lessons which has been delivered in classes throughout the week.
A smoking ceremony followed, led by local Aboriginal elders, Uncle David and Uncle Norman to cleanse the area of bad spirits, as had been the traditional practice of the Dharag mob.
The first dance item was performed by students from Sista Speak, which is a school-based program for Aboriginal l and Torres Strait Islander girls in Australia that promotes self-esteem, cultural connection, leadership and community involvement by providing a safe and inclusive space to develop friendships, discuss relevant issues, and learn about First Nations history and cultures.
The dance depicted traditional women's roles of collecting, washing, and sharing bush foods.
The boys from Clontarf then performed a traditional hunting dance, accompanied by choir and dance students from Bidwill primary school, whilst Uncle Norman from Aboriginal band Yangkay played the didgeridoo.
Current NRL stars from the Cronulla Sharks, Hohepa and Niwhai Puru delivered a motivational speech about what their cultural heritage means to them, inspiring students to work hard, believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams. The Deadly Awards were presented to Aboriginal students who demonstrated outstanding achievement in cultural custodianship, leadership, academic and sporting pursuits.
Award recipients were for Deadly Learner - Corey Smedinga, Strong Spirit – Codi Taylor, Culture Keeper – Cooper McDeed, Community Champion – Jamilakye Young, Young Leader – Summer Morris, Deadly Creative – Bailey Thomas, Kierra Todhunter, Allaria Cobban, Taylor Mills, Janayla Smiley, On the Rise – Sharli Willie, Deadly female athlete – Ngaru O’Brien, Deadly male athlete – Stephen Eldering and finally, the two most prestigious awards representing students who exemplify this year's theme, Kamira Towney and Connor McWhinney.
Year 8 student and proud Wiradjuri and Dunghutti woman Kamira Towney delivered a passionate student address in which she encapsulated concepts of strength, vision, and legacy in terms of the next generation, stating that,
“Here at Chifley College, we are lucky. We have an Aboriginal Education Team who stand beside us, guiding us, creating opportunities, and making sure we feel culturally safe and proud every day. We have a Principal and school leaders who listen to our voices, celebrate our cultures and belive in our potential. To my fellow students: Let us use our strength to face challenges, our vision to plan big, and our legacy to inspire others. Let us show the world that the next generation is ready. Ready to lead, ready to achieve, and ready to carry the fire of culture forward. Because one day, the next generation will look back at us – and we will be their elders, their role models, their inspiration.”
Multiple external community and university pathway stalls provided great advice on the day, with food vendors, hospitality student catering and a free sausage sizzle for all accompanied by fun activities such as the roving NAIDOC portrait and the final of the oz tag NAIDOC Knockout, which was won convincingly by Year 10 over Year 12, five tries to two.
Staff member Donovan Boney expressed the broader significance of the event, saying: ”We honour the strength of First Nations people who have survived and thrived through generations of injustice, and who continue to lead with power and dignity. We acknowledge the vision of a more just and inclusive Australia – where truth-telling, equity and cultural safety are not just ideas, but values we live by in every space.”
Proud Bundjalung and Kamilaroi woman Bianca Beale, who was born and raised in Mt Druitt, summed up the occasion, saying: “I want to take a moment to thank and honour our Elders – those who have paved the way for us. Their culture, knowledge, and spirit have shaped who I am today. I carry that with me, and now I have the priviledge of passing it on to my daughter, and to the next generation standing proudly with us.”
Future initiatives will include a Welcome to Country sign posted at the front of the school which honours the memory of First Nations people whose lives were lost in the defense of their culture, which will be a fitting continuation of the deep respect that our school has towards advancing the cause of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia.
Scenes form NAIDOC Celebrations.
SHAPING ANTI-RACISM CONVERSATIONS Dealing with the real-life issues
BY CONNOR MCWHINNEY AND MIZACHRO KOKO
IT seems like wherever there are people, there is racism. People hating on each other because of the colour of their skin or differences of opinion due to cultural ignorance is an age-old aspect of humanity.
As members of the School Representative Council (SRC), Mizachro and I get to participate in extra-curricular activities which go some way towards shaping the direction of schools in our area.
As members of the Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG), that role is made even stronger. Last term we met as part of a broader anti- racism group with a view towards ending any hint of racism in Chifley College schools.
In attendance were Tom Moth, Director of Educational Leadership, Leanne Dunn, Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Ropes Crossing Public School, Jason Flood who is the Department of Education Anti-Racism Officer, plus an Anti-Racism Advisor.
We interviewed Tom Moth about his background, his job role and his passion for tackling the issue of racism head on.
Our first question is, which school did you go to?
I went to school at Castle Hill Public School, so in the Hills District, and then my secondary school was Epping Boys' High School.
What made you want to become the Director of Education?
The first step in that journey kind of was I wanted to be a teacher. I wanted to work with students. I wanted to help students to enjoy school, because I enjoyed school. When I went, I felt like I belonged and I felt like I was at my best, because I was learning about all sorts of different topics and life, and I felt like if I could help other young people to also enjoy school, then they would get good outcomes. And so, after being a teacher, (I was a primary school teacher) and then eventually a principal of a school, becoming a director, I think, was about being able to work across several schools and work with a larger group of wonderful school leaders, wonderful students, and others to have a bigger impact.
So, what was today's meeting about?
Today, we had 40 students from 20 schools in the Mount Druitt area talking about racism. We had an honest conversation about the fact that our schools, we like to think, are safe and inclusive places, and mostly they are. But from time to time, racism occurs, and we all have a role to play. To eliminate racism, as the director, as principals, as staff members in schools, but also as students in schools, we all have a role to play, so that all people, whether they be staff, students, community members, feel that they're treated respectfully and inclusively, no matter what their background, their home language, colour of the skin, and that we all find ways to really celebrate the diversity across all of the schools in this region.
And growing up, have you always wanted to become the director of education?
No, I think it just was something that, as I moved through my career, it became something that was an opportunity, and sometimes in life, opportunities arise, and you can say to yourself, it's the right time or it's the wrong time, and for me, when this opportunity came up, I felt like it was the right time. I like to think I'm enthusiastic, and I like to think that I've got some skills that can help schools to continue to improve, so that students' day-to-day learning experiences can improve.
What does your role involve?
I like to say that my role involves finding out what's happening really, really well at schools, and I find that out by talking to students, and when I find things that are working really, really well at one school, I can help other schools to implement programs or activities or ways of running the school that will also work well for them, and then on the flip side of that, sometimes I hear when things are not working so well, and because I've got this really privileged position, I'm very lucky and I work with lots of schools, if a school says to me, look, things could be better, often I'll know, because I get to work with lots of schools, I'll know ways that it could be improved, and I can connect schools up, and we can share ideas, and so we're stronger together.
How long have you been the Director of Education?
For three years, so it's only still a short
period of time, and I'm hoping to be the Director for quite a long time to come.
One of the outcomes of today’s meeting was that we created the role of an anti-racism officer for each of the five campuses. In terms of Bidwill, our amazing Technical Support Officer Stimon Mow heads up the position of Anti-racism contact Officer. As a man whose family emigrated here from Sudan, he stated that:
“I take on the role of Anti-Racism Contact Officer with a strong personal motivation shaped by my own experiences of racism as a student. These experiences have driven me to ensure that every young person at Chifley College Bidwill Campus feels valued, safe, and respected. I believe in the importance of building a school community where diversity is celebrated, and where all students can learn and thrive without fear of discrimination. As part of our wellbeing team, I am committed to being a supportive contact point for students and families, advocating for fairness, and working with staff to create an inclusive and respectful environment for all.”
We also sought out a student’s perspective on this important issue:
Could you please start by introducing yourself and letting us know why you are here today?
My name is Edward Hatfield, I'm from Chifley College, Dunheved Campus, and I'm a student that attended this Student Representative Council meeting for term two. I began to understand what this group is about and how we can help positively our network, and of course the state of New South Wales, and then understood how racism is really affecting our school, our culture, you know, the entire way we run the school and how we go about these issues. When we started talking about racism, we really realised that we don't have too many opportunities to speak out, to act, and to understand what's going on, so to be able to talk about that and realise that we need to do something, and we need to do something now.
What culture do you belong to?
Have you personally experienced racism firsthand?
I come from Australia but I'm also Aboriginal and have some Scottish and German heritage, so I've got a bit of a mixed background. But I feel like I'm definitely impacted by racism, in particular
with the Aboriginal side of who I am, you know, with the stolen generation, it's just so recent, and all of these racist things are still happening today, the exclusion and all this prejudice is still affecting me, it's still affecting my family, it's affecting my school.
What is an example of the type of racism that's been directed at you?
I'd definitely say, you know, bad words, like bad comments, jokes that aren't very nice in hindsight, but just come at me, whether they're gentle, whether they're obvious, whether they're subtle, anything from, oh look at his face, or look at his skin, or look at what they do, that sort of thing is where it really happens.
If you got the opportunity to, what would you do to stop racism from happening?
From my point of view, awareness is something that's really lacking, and then those programs to sort the issues out in themselves, so if I had the opportunity to be proactive as much as possible and get that done, I would go towards making people aware of what's happening, making people aware of how to sort out this issue, but then also making sure there are programs, workshops, reporting systems, and then punishments of course, so that way people know and people feel safe when they're talking about racism and violence.
Can I just ask one thing about, you're all on the student council for the school, but what is that more broadly? Is your role as an AECG representative?
We're here to bring out the voice of the people, so the students at every school, of everyone in the Mount Druitt network, and then when we go further up with those issues, we're talking about everyone in the state that's being educated by government schools. It gives everyone a voice to be heard, so what I'm getting out of it is we're trying to shape the school to be like a better place for everyone to feel safe, to feel like they belong somewhere, just to feel connected to where they are.
We are proud to represent our extremely culturally diverse school as ambassadors of anti-racism.
With pro-racist protests happening throughout Australia and abroad, sometimes it can feel like an uphill battle, but it’s one that we are deadly serious about at Bidwill.
Business backlash at rate hike
TONY BOSWORTH
BLACKTOWN City Council’s bid for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) has sparked opposition from local business owners and a former Mayor, with claims the increase will accelerate the decline of the struggling CBD and cripple small, family-run shops and restaurants.
While Council claims the increase is necessary to properly fund essential services and refresh community facilities, critics argue the proposal is fiscally irresponsible, noting Council holds $838 million in cash reserves while simultaneously seeking a substantial rate hike from ratepayers.
Blacktown Council has proposed a rate rise which, they say means most small businesses would see a phased increase of 15% in 2026/27 and 8.5% in 2027/28.
But local State MP and former Mayor Stephen Bali claims the true impact will be far greater due to sub-category rates and compounding effects. He calculates that the general business rate increase will result in a massive 66% rise for many local businesses over the next three years. He says big retailers will also be hard hit.
“This means the average shop in Blacktown CBD will pay over the next three years a sum-total of $15,242 additional rates,” Mr. Bali said, adding that annual rates will then be compounded at these higher new levels.
Long-time Blacktown business owner Steve Vella of Breakaway Travel, who also leases out several commercial properties to clients, is scathing of the plan, warning that the increase won't hit landlords but rather the small business tenants who hold the leases.
“This is going to hit whoever has signed a lease with a landlord... your hairdresser, your fish and chip shop, your little kebab shop. Those are your mums and dads,” Mr Vella said.
He described the Blacktown CBD as "dead" and the small businesses in it as being "on the precipice," teetering on the edge of failure.
He said more people would go and shop at Rouse Hill. Mr Vella highlighted the fragility of local commerce, citing an example of one restaurateur who he says will have to absorb an extra $65 a week solely from the rate increase.
The SRV, if approved by regulator IPART, is intended to raise extra revenue to maintain and run assets like roads and pools, but also to help fund a proposed $400M (Mr Bali says it will be nearer $600M) for two new council administrative buildings.
"The [Council] cash reserve right now, as of July 31, is $838M," Mr. Bali told Blacktown News. "So here
they are, $838M in the bank account, and they're saying to ratepayers, 'oh, we're broke, you need to give us more money.'"
The new buildings are proposed to be funded partially from the SRV, following the sale of the last Council headquarters to developer Walker Corp for just $40M.
Blacktown real estate agent Andrew Chrysanthou said the rate increase will impact the broader community and an already strained rental market.
“Rental rates will rise, there is no doubt about that, both residential and commercial,” Mr. Chrysanthou said, noting the rate hike is far greater than typical increases seen when interest rates climb.
The former Mayor underscored the difficulty facing retailers, pointing to a "shocking number of vacant shops in Blacktown CBD" and sales turnover that has yet to recover to pre-Covid levels.
A Council spokesperson defended the SRV, saying that even with the change, “Blacktown will remain one of the lowest-rated councils in metropolitan Sydney.”
The Council argues that businesses rely on the very services the SRV will maintain and improve, including “safe roads, reliable stormwater systems, clean public spaces and town centres that attract customers and investment”.
The Council maintains the SRV ensures the costs are "shared across the whole community" with full transparency on fund expenditure.
However, critics like Mr Vella remain unconvinced. He accuses council of trying to push through the plan without understanding the current hardship faced by local small businesses.
Learn more about rates proposal
BRAD BUNTING
IF you regularly read the Blacktown News, you may recall I let you know of Council’s financial challenges to maintain and deliver infrastructure and services and the proposal to apply to increase rates to meet those challenges.
To recap, a booming population needing greater support, as well as cost shifting from governments, means Council will be unable to fund the ser-
vices our community expects.
Yet there is a solution. Under the proposal, most residential ratepayers would see an increase of $3.29 per week for the 2026/27 financial year. This would ensure we have the parks, roads, footpaths and more our community deserves.
I believe this is the way to secure the future for Blacktown City.
I know many of you have questions. I want you to have the opportunity to be fully informed and have those questions answered.
Council is currently running a
comprehensive community consultation program to provide the facts and figures behind the proposal and share your thoughts.
You will have received letters in your mailbox, have opportunities to ask questions in person, and be able to learn more through the Have Your Say page on Council’s website.
The consultation program is spanning 42 days so everyone has time to learn more, have their questions answered and offer their thoughts.
An independent research study
will collect feedback. This will be reported to Council before any decision to apply to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
I encourage you to learn the facts and make up your own mind.
By having this conversation, I am confident we can achieve what is best for Blacktown City.
City.
New renewables hub for Blacktown
THE NSW Government is investing in the jobs of the future by delivering $28M to build a new Renewables Manufacturing Hub at Blacktown.
The new hub is expected to employ 143 full time workers over the lifetime of the project, creating the workforce that will make Western Sydney a key supplier to the renewable energy industry.
In addition to the $28M NSW Government grant to Sell & Parker to operate the hub, $38M will be co-invested by Sell & Parker, taking the total investment in the local area to $66M.
Sell & Parker is an Australian-owned company with a 60-year history in the steel industry and a strong track record in recycling and
of torque tubes, mounts and brackets for solar farms and 200 monopoles per year for transmission infrastructure. This investment strengthens NSW’s domestic industrial capability.
Once complete, the hub will produce 46,000 tonnes of competitively priced steel a year, backing local manufacturing and supporting homegrown innovation and jobs.
This funding has been awarded under the Renewable Manufacturing Construction Ready Stream of the NSW Government’s $480M Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative, which is helping local businesses scale up to meet the demand for renewable energy components and low-carbon products.
www.energy.nsw.gov.au/
Brad Bunting is Mayor of Blacktown
steel manufacturing. It has an existing facility in Smithfield. The hub will produce 780 turbine anchors for the wind sector, thousands
Admitting driving while distracted
NEW AAMI research reveals nine in 10 Australians admit to driving distracted, with 38% involved in an accident or near miss. Key distractions include smartphones (25%), adjusting music or GPS (60%), people-watching (40%), crash scenes (40%), and
eating (65%). Over a third cite cognitive distractions, while a quarter won’t change until facing direct consequences. To improve road safety, AAMI has launched the AAMI Driving Test (ADT), helping drivers assess and strengthen their skills.
more likely to experience increased work satisfaction over time. Researchers stress that workplace wellbeing must focus on holistic strategies - flexible work, mental health support, personal growth, and valuing life outside work - if employers want engaged, fulfilled staff. The study urges a people-first approach for lasting workplace satisfaction.
money to research brain cancers
ANEWCASTLE-led research team, led by Professor Matt Dun, has
detect AF early. Cardiologists stress early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can prevent debilitating AF-related strokes, reducing costs and saving lives. govt seeks EOI for
housing program
THE NSW Government has opened Expressions of Interest for its Pre-sale Finance Guarantee (PFG) program to accelerate housing construction in NSW. The five-year initiative will commit up to $1B billion in pre-sales by purchasing up to 50% of
Authorised by Chris Bowen MP, ALP, Fairfield West
CHEAPER HOME BATTERIES
MICHELLE ROWLAND
IMAGINE how much energy is needed to toast 420,000 slices of bread, display 42,000 hours of Netflix, or fully charge nearly 900,000 iPhones?
Well, this is how much energy has already been installed here in Greenway through the cheaper home batteries scheme.
Labor went to the election with a promise to make home batteries more affordable for Western Sydney households, and we are delivering on that commitment.
On July 1 our Cheaper Home Batteries program commenced and has since delivered over 50,000 installations across the country, including over 4,200 in Western Sydney.
The Cheaper Home Batteries program reduces the cost of a typical home battery installation by around 30% – a saving of roughly $4,000.
For households with existing rooftop solar, that delivers savings of up to $1,100 a year on power bills, while families installing new solar and battery systems can save up to $2,300 a year.
Locals in our community care about Australia’s clean energy future, but they also want to cut their power bills and reduce their reliance on the grid.
This program delivers both, and it’s been fantastic to see the strong uptake in
our area. In fact, the highest take-up of cheaper home batteries isn’t in inner cities, but in our outer suburbs and regional areas.
This is no surprise, with 10 times more solar rooftop panels in Blacktown than Bondi.
In the first half of 2025, rooftop solar accounted for 12.8% of Australia’s electricity generation – up from just 6% in 2020 – and our Government is working to expand access to cheaper and cleaner energy.
We’re investing $100M through the
Solar Banks program to provide shared solar systems for over 25,000 apartments and rental properties.
We’re also delivering upgrades to more than 100,000 social housing properties, including solar, batteries, and energy-efficiency improvements, lowering power bills for those who need it most.
Programs like these show that transitioning to clean energy doesn’t just protect our environment, it strengthens communities, helps household budgets, and empowers Australians to take con-
“Imagine how much energy is needed to fully charge 900,000 iPhones.”
trol of their energy future.
I am proud that our community in North West Sydney is leading the way, proving that sustainability and affordability can go hand in hand.
Michelle Rowland MP is the Federal Member for Greenway and Attorney-General of Australia. If you need assistance with any Federal issue, you can contact Michelle by phone on 02 9671 4780 or by email at Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au Michelle. Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au
WEXPO Main Event 2025 is held on October 22 at Sydney Showground during Small Business Month.
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WHO REMEMBERS THE SATURDAY MATINEE?
Days when we went to the movies
LES TOD, BLACKTOWN NEWS HISTORY WRITER
TODAY’S digital screen-stuck generation would find it hard to believe that once upon a time, there was a thing called the Saturday Matinee.
Most suburban and country theatres ran one. Blacktown’s Warrick Theatre always had one, and at the end of the school holidays, they added another, the Backto-School Matinee. As far as parents were concerned, the matinee gave them a chance to get rid of the kids for an afternoon and know they were in a safe environment.
As far as the kids were concerned, it was a massive social gathering, a chance to catch up with friends, discuss the latest episode of the cliffhanger serial, and gobble lollies.
The Saturday Matinee was, for decades, a children’s gala event. Today it is all but forgotten. Yet it was one of the most important (to children) events of the week, and if you missed it, you also missed the next episode of the serial, not to mention a number of cartoons.
The two main features were often westerns or comedies, with a sprinkle of science fiction films thrown in. If the main feature for the night screening was suitable,
it would also be shown at the matinee.
Next door to Blacktown Warrick was a fish and chip shop, which knew the exact time the interval came and had hot chips, wrapped in newspapers, lined up on the counter for sixpence [five cents].
One would have thought the theatre management would not want hot chips in the theatre, but they didn’t seem to mind. The smell of the hot chips wafting through the stalls was heaven – unless you didn’t have any.
I remember the anxious wait for the film “Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea”. It was talked about endlessly as we waited for Saturday, the posters perused outside the theatre and discussed as if it was a world event. The Warrick was packed out, as it was for most matinees. When interval was over – and so was the long wait – the 20th Century-Fox fanfare and searchlights were drowned out by a massive roar from inside the theatre that felt like it would crack the walls.
Westerns were popular, especially when the cavalry rode to the rescue and again the walls shuddered with the noise; and the comedies by Abbott and Costello and Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. And Walt Disney movies, which in those days were mostly documentaries, but also included live action
films like “Swiss Family Robinson”, were always popular.
But one Disney film, “Old Yeller”, a dog movie with a dreadful ending, traumatised a lot of kids at the time. Disney made a sequel, “Savage Sam”, but it did not do well at the box office, probably because the kids were smart enough not to be put through that emotional wringer again.
The Warrick had a long candy bar which was located in the long foyer alongside the theatre. The sight of hundreds of screaming, running kids when interval came out was a sight to terrify any adult, but the ladies there were used to it and patiently took the lolly orders – one penny of that, threepence worth of those, etc.
Back inside the theatre, if the kids were bored, Jaffas and Minties would become airborne by the dozens.
But the Warrick had an usherette who brooked no bad behaviour. She wore a very pungent perfume and even in the darkness you knew she was on patrol. If she found a miscreant she would remove him or her by the scruff of the neck and you were not allowed to return until the following week.
In those days, parents did not sue the theatre because their child had been thrown out. Parents knew for that to happen, the child had been at fault, and you
had to bear the consequences of missing the rest of the movie, and the jeers of your friends at school on Monday morning.
I once asked the owner what were the biggest films that caused turn-away crowds. He replied “The Ten Commandments”, Walt Disney’s “The Parent Trap”, and surprisingly, “Gorgo”, a monster movie which was an early example of saturation advertising on television, and filled theatre seats all over Sydney.
The queue for the “Gorgo” matinee went down Main Street towards the station, and they had to open the dress circle to cater for it.
Another indication that a matinee was screening were the bicycles. They were leaning on shopfronts all around the theatre, the footpath, and down the side lane as well.
While today’s generation might consider all this as strange, it was social cohesion for the children of Blacktown. They were not at school, they could be themselves, they could group with friends or relatives. They could yell at the bad guys and sometimes weep with sadness, depending on the film.
They could walk to the theatre, or ride a bike, or catch a bus. But they came together as a whole, and it was an important event in their weekly life in the years before mass media took over.
THE GRAND FINALE - REVIEW A joyous watch for series fans
BY JACOB RICHARDSON
MARY (Michelle Dockery) finds herself in the midst of a public scandal, and wonders whether her place among society has forever been tarnished. Meanwhile, her father, Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) struggles with the idea of letting go, and passing the mantle to Mary.
To throw everything into disarray, Lady Grantham’s (Elizabeth McGovern) brother Harold Levinson (Paul Giamatti) returns with a mysterious stranger Gus Sambrook (Alessandro Nivola), complicating things with money woes, and the family and servants plan a dinner with Guy Dexter (Dominic West) and Noel Coward (Arty Froushan) to try and win back Mary’s place among the town.
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is kind of like a really long episode of the show. But not one of the good or important episodes; more like a middle of the season, nothing really happens episode. That’s because, as far as can be discerned, this film has no arcs whatsoever.
Ostensibly the final chapter in the DA oeuvre, The Grand Finale endeavours to wrap up, in some way, shape
or form, the stories of this coterie of characters. And in many ways it does. There’s an ending that sees each of these staples of your TV and cinema screen find their resolution; be it transformation, retirement, commiseration or comfort.
But the film is curiously devoid of any real sense of finality because there is so little arc to any of these characters. The film is hamstrung by the fact that this plays out like a serial on TV, and so we get moments that mid-season might have enough impact to carry the 30 minutes, but on the big screen feel underwhelm-
ing. The final result is emotionality that feels less like a gut punch, and more like a cool wind somewhere off in the distance.
The cast is just as perfect in these roles as they have been for years, and the settings lose none of their grandeur. On the visual front, perhaps the only shame is that the film feels somewhat cheap on the big screen - although it can hardly be blamed for that, when it has to carry the visual cinematography tone and style from a TV show into a medium where the crisp clarity no longer feels like prestige period piece but rather cheap melodrama.
Ultimately, for the uninitiated, this film is going to be a completely baffling experience. Very little happens to justify a big screen presence, none of the characters are built up to care about in this single film, and the visuals feel out of place for the cinema. But this movie isn’t for the uninitiated, and these problems would likely be the same for anyone jumping into the new Avengers as their first Marvel experience, or catching Fast X as their first drag race with Dom and the family.
No, this movie is for the fans. And if you’re a Downton fan, what more could you ask for? All the favourites, back together on the big screen. The wonderful family manor home, resplendent in soft dappled sunset. Witty repartee, banter and the frolics, fancies and rules of this period of aristocracy.
Sure, the film misses something crucial in the loss of Dame Maggie Smith, but that doesn’t stop the thing that will make this a win for its audience - when the Downton Abbey theme plays, you can’t help but feel a familiar stirring in your heart.
Welcome back to Downton. If it’s for the last time, then those who love this series will find this a bittersweet, if satisfactory, ending to the saga. 3 Stars.
MY SPRING ROAD TRIP Through Southern NSW
BEAUTIFUL spring days, great boutique shopping and new experiences, all within a four and a half hour drive southwest of Sydney’s CBD. The Riverina towns of Junee, Temora and Coolamon are perfect for a few days away, don’t overthink it. Just book in your accommodation and get on the road.
Night One Junee
Roll out of Sydney and enjoy the scenic drive to Junee, heading straight for the historic Junee Hotel for a classic pub dinner and a chat with the locals. With renovated rooms and a very relaxed atmosphere, night one will set the tone for your whole trip (and this pub is moving to dog-friendly accommodation in 2026, take a note for future trips). In the morning, make your way to the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, a must-visit destination, a mix of decorate-your-own- chocolates, cafe for yummy meals, a lovely garden and live music.
Ready for Junee shopping?
Head to Studio on Sunshine, showcasing homemade products, art and homewares. Keen on antiques? Drop into RB Firman and Co for pieces from the Edwardian and Victorian era with a mix of Aussie, French and Aussie pieces. Or try your hand at Junee Junk Gypsies with their mix of old and new collectables. Stock up on 100% genuine sheepskin at Aussie Uggs or find gifts and homewares in
Country Meadows. Enjoy a delicious pub lunch at the Commercial Hotel or a light lunch in Cafe Ganmain before driving 40 minutes onto your next lovely town of Temora. This is hopping day done right.
Night Two Temora
There are amazing choices for accommodation in Temora to give you a feel for country life. Haberton House, a beautifully restored heritage building is ‘next-level gorgeousness’, decorated in all whites, oversized armchairs, stunning tapware and tile choices and a lovely backyard courtyard. SkyLodge Temora offers modern queen, king and family rooms right at Temora Aviation museum, which is a fun way to end the day. Three Ponds Estate has self-contained thoughtfully put together modern tiny homes to enjoy the sun going down in this fantastic part of the world. Wake up the next morning, grab a coffee and breakfast from Expresso House. Start your shopping across the road at A Little Rae of Sunshine for very cool gifts and clothes, shop sustainable fashion at Kindly, Darling or modern and antique home furnishings at Mabel Rose. Check out Tanza’s vibrant colours and prints before pointing the car west.
A scenic 30 minute drive away is Coolamon, a classic country town with a main street lined with heritage buildings that house cafes, homewares shops, boutiques and galleries. Enjoy lunch at the Coolamon Cheese Co and taste award-winning cheeses and purchase gourmet food items. Drop into Somerset Rose for jewellery and accessories, quirky artworks and ornaments at Echoes of Arbortree and gorgeous signature pieces at Fisher and Farmer. Stay at the stunning renovated Coolamon Pub, it’s the perfect place for a fantastic pub meal downstairs with the locals.
Night Three Coolamon
Sleep late and head to the Station Collective at Coolamon Railway for great coffee and brekkie. Grab some last minute indoor plants, gifts and pots at The Sill before taking your time to meander back to Sydney and beyond.
It’s fun to support regional economies, to talk to locals and learn how they live and work in towns that create our agricultural industry. This region’s paddocks turn a brilliant yellow during Canola flowering season of August and Sept, read about it in Outer Edge magazine, Canola Country (outeredgemagazine.com/go-wild-in-canolacountry). Take a few extra gourmet treats home, the holiday season is just around the corner.
with Emma Wilson
GO WILD AT AUSTRALIA’S Favourite Outdoors EXPO
ACROSS Gippsland’s rolling hills, a new culture is unfolding - one that blends food, lifestyle, and sustainability, turning ‘pest to plate’ and ‘field to fork’ into a way of life. And there’s a seat waiting for you at the table.
Join thousands of visitors at Australia's premier event for hunting, fishing, 4WDing, camping, and outdoor adven-
ture enthusiasts, the Wild Deer Expo.
For more than 10 years, the Wild Deer Expo has been the country’s favourite hunting and outdoors expo, showcasing the latest gear, expert-led workshops, live demos, and activities for the whole family.
Under new ownership, the Wild Deer Expo is returning to Lardner Park, Victoria, on October 11–12, drawing over
Internationally renowned game chef Jo Barrett - The Age Good Food Guide 2024 Chef of the Year and World’s 50 Next Pioneer - will give talks on cooking game meat, reducing waste, and starting hunting with no experience. Her latest project, ‘Wildpie,’ turns Australian wild game and invasive species into handcrafted pies, offering conscious consumers organic, free-range proteins that support national population management.
A new outdoor lifestyle:
10,000 visitors and up to 150 exhibitors in a vibrant celebration of the outdoors.
As the world urges us to unplug, step away from screens, and rethink our digital lives, be part of the quiet wave of Australians answering the call, by rediscovering the simple joy of reconnecting with the outdoors.
Field to fork experiences:
The Wild Deer Expo showcases how sustainable hunting and wildlife management translate directly into gourmet experiences. From “pest to plate” demonstrations to workshops on preparing venison in haute cuisine style, the expo celebrates a responsible, sustainable approach to food.
Among those headlining the expo include chef, game-harvester, and former co-host of SBS’s 'Gourmet Farmer' Ross O'Meara. With more than three decades of culinary experience and a passion for ethical, paddock-to-plate eating, Ross is a sought-after authority on game meat harvesting and sustainable food.
Beyond the kitchen, the expo immerses visitors in the great outdoors with exhibitors offering guided hunts, 4WD adventures, camping gear, and wildlife education.
The Wild Deer Expo brings together a powerhouse lineup of people and brands under one roof with industry legends like Rick Petersen, Karla Pound and “Muzza” from the TV series Alone, sharing their bushcraft skills alongside prominent names in the hunting and outdoors world. Whether you’re after cutting-edge gear, premium optics, backcountry apparel, the latest in outdoor tech, or just want to learn something new, you’ll find it here.
Local and sustainable focus:
The expo highlights the importance of local ecosystems, ethical sourcing, and culinary creativity, showcasing how outdoor enthusiasts can engage with food in a sustainable, mindful way.
This is your chance to explore, connect, and gear up for your next hunt or outdoor off-grid adventure.
Find out more at www.deerexpo.com.au
in Western Sydney Mental Health Matters
Mental health affects how we live, work, and connect. In Western Sydney, over half of residents report low psychological wellbeing¹—yet support is available, and help is always within reach.
Know the Signs
Look out for:
• Ongoing sadness or worry
• Trouble sleeping or eating
• Withdrawing from others
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to ask for help.
Support for Everyone
Free mental health services are available for:
• Young people
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• Culturally and linguistically diverse communities
• People leaving hospital care
• Those with complex or co-occurring needs
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
Find the Right Support
WentWest offers free services across five levels of care:
1. Self-help tools – apps, online programs
2. Low intensity – short-term counselling
3. Moderate intensit – face-to-face therapy
4. High intensity – complex mental health support
5. Specialist care – acute and hospital-linked services Start with your GP or call a mental health line. Mental health support is here for you—no matter your background, age, or situation. Reach out. Speak up. Support is just a call away. Learn more: wentwest.com.au/mentalhealth
NSW Mental Health Line
1800 011 511 (24/7)
Free advice and referrals from trained professionals.
Medicare Mental Health Line 1800 595 212 (Mon–Fri, 8:30am–5pm) Connect with local services and supports.
