LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS LAUNCHED
LOCAL DENTIST
CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
WORLD CLASS HOTEL
Oran Parks new entrainment hub opens
ORAN Park Hotel, South Western Sydney’s premier multi-million-dollar hospitality and entertainment precinct, is now open. Located in the vibrant heart of Oran Park, this expansive 7,500 sqm precinct, one of the largest in Australia, is set to become the Macarthur Region’s go-to destination for
world-class dining, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. Owned and operated by Momento Hospitality, Oran Park Hotel spans 3 levels, offering seven bars, an all-day bistro, a central open-air atrium, pizzeria, bottle shop, and an Asian-inspired rooftop bar.
ISSUE 28 | April 2023
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New Picton sports ground open
THE amenities extension at Picton Sports ground was officially opened on April 5 with ribbon cutting and a tour of the new facility.
Picton Rangers Football Club secured grant funding for the Wollondilly Shire Council facility upgrade totaling more than $3.2M. The amenities building is now three times the size of the original building.
Mayor Matt Gould said: “I’m excited to see this popular facility now complete and open for use by the current hirers Picton Rangers Football Club, Southwest Oztag and Tahmoor District Cricket Club.”
The Mayor expressed his
Rgratitude to Picton Rangers Football Club’s Andrew Merchant for securing the
grants through the 2019 Sports Election Commitment Program with the NSW Office
of Sport and the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grant through the Commonwealth Government, Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.
He said: “Projects such as this just wouldn’t happen without extra funding, so a huge thanks to Picton Rangers and the Australian and NSW Governments for their contribution.”
“The Federal Government funding under the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grant has contributed by providing space for emergency crews to do their important work during disasters. As you
may remember, Picton Sports ground was used during the Green Wattle fire in 2019/20 for aircraft to come and go and pilots to refuel and rest.”
“This is a great time to acknowledge the work the RFS and other emergency services do year in and year out to keep our community safe. Thank you.”
As well as creating space for emergency services, the upgrades have added home and away change rooms, a club room, improvements to the existing canteen, storage, referees’ rooms, a first aid room, an outdoor barbecue area and spectator seating.
Changed school zone times at Oran Park
OAD users are advised of changed school zone operational hours at St Benedict’s Catholic College and St Justin’s Catholic Parish Primary School, Oran Park from Thursday, April 17 2025.
Work will be carried out on Forestgrove Drive, Oran Park Drive, Catherine Park Drive,
Holllows Drive and Phillips Avenue.
The morning school zone operating hours will be between 7.30am to 9.30am on school days. The afternoon school zone operating hours between 2.30 to 4pm will not change.
Work will be completed over two-day shifts between
Thursday 17 April and Friday 9 May 2025, weather permitting.
Our work hours will be between Monday to Friday, 7am and 6pm. There will be no work between 7.30am to 9.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm to minimise impact to motorists and the school community during school zone hours. No work will be carried out
on Saturday or Sundays or over the Easter long weekend. Work activities will include replacing the existing school zone signage with new signs to reflect the school zone operating hours of 7.30am to 9.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm on school days and minor tree trimming to improve visibility of the school zone sign on Hollows
Drive.
There will be temporary traffic changes to make sure the work zone is safe. Lane closures and a 40km/h speed limit will be in place for the safety of our workers and motorists.
Traffic controllers will be on site to assist motorists and pedestrians.
Ribbon cutting with special guests and club members.
NEW HOSPITALITY HUB OPENS AT ORAN PARK Hotel one of Australia’s largest
ORAN Park Hotel, South Western Sydney's premier multi-million-dollar hospitality and entertainment precinct, is now open.
Located in the vibrant heart of Oran Park, this expansive 7,500 sqm precinct, one of the largest in Australia, is set to become the Macarthur Region's go-to destination for world-class dining, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences.
Owned and operated by Momento Hospitality, Oran Park Hotel spans 3 levels, offering seven bars, an all-day bistro, a central open-air atrium, pizzeria, bottle shop, and an Asian-inspired rooftop bar.
Beyond its dining offerings, the precinct also boasts two boutique cinemas, a grand ballroom with multiple function spaces, and an indoor kids’ play area. Sustainable amenities, including EV chargers, solar energy, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting, reinforce the venue’s commitment to a responsible and future-proof design.
Construction of Oran Park Hotel began in November 2021 and was completed in just over three years, with the project totaling over $50M.
Led by Sydney architecture firm Archibiosis Architects, in collaboration with builder Versatile Construction, the hotel’s design seamlessly blends with the local landscape, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of Oran
Park – a suburb that has evolved from farmland into one of the region’s most dynamic and rapidly growing areas.
Art plays a defining role in the venue’s character, with a hand painted racing mural in the Sports Bar celebrating Oran Park’s rich motorsport heritage.
Features include:
Ground Floor: The Atrium - located in the central courtyard anchored by a striking bottle tree, serves as the heart of the venue, allowing natural light to flood the space while reinforcing a connection to the environment. Raised areas with integrated bench seating, curved balconies, and ambient lighting create intimate outdoor spaces.
The Bistro - Open daily from 10am until late, the Bistro at Oran Park Hotel offers a diverse menu perfect for any
Introducing Macarthur
and carefully designed community spaces, Macarthur Memorial Park is an innovative, multidenominational memorial and parkland destination, designed to honour life, culture and community for generations to
occasion. Whether you're in the mood for small sharing plates, fresh salads, pub classics, or hearty mains like surf and turf, pastas, and pizzas, there's something for everyone.
The Sports Bar - The Sports Bar is the ultimate hub for catching up with mates, watching live sports, and enjoying great entertainment through out the week. With multiple screens showing all the major Australian and global sporting events—NRL, AFL, rugby, UFC, golf, ice hockey, basketball, soccer, motorsport, and more— you'll never miss a moment of the action.
Papi’s Pizzeria–Open daily from 11am to 1am, Papi’s Pizzeria serves up house- made Italian-style pizzas with a unique twist, ideal for both takeaway and casual dining in a retro- inspired setting. The nostalgic space fea tures playful interiors, highlighted by a bold contrast of reds and whites.
The Entertainment Lounge offers
a lively space for live music, dancing, and friendly games, with an atmosphere designed to match any social occasion.
First Floor: Oran Park Hotel features two boutique Cinemas on the first floor, offering an elevated cinematic experience. Each cinema, with a seating capacity of 40 guests, provides the perfect setting for private viewings, seminars, book launches, and other small events.
Rooftop: Jinja Rooftop Bar is the go-to destination for vibrant nights out, boasting stunning panoramic views of Oran Park and its surroundings. Open Thursday to Sunday, this Asian-inspired hotspot is full of energy, with bold velvet seating, stylish rattan weaves, and striking pink accents. The chic, adults-only terrace is ideal for cocktails and dumplings with friends all year round.
Visit: www.oranparkhotel. com.au
Papa’s Oizzeria and below.hotel chef Amilio Abouna.
Solar batteries in Camden soar
HOUSEHOLDS and businesses in Camden are among the 7,800 across NSW enjoying lower energy bills thanks to the strong early adoption of the NSW Government's household battery incentive, which delivers thousands of dollars off the cost of installation.
Since the incentive was launched in November, more than 7,800 batteries have been installed in homes and businesses across NSW.
That includes premises in and around Camden with 166 installations.
By using the incentive scheme, eligible homeowners and businesses get an upfront discount on the cost of battery installation through installers working with government-accredited suppliers.
The discount amount is related to the size of the battery, meaning larger batteries attract bigger discounts. For a typical household battery with 13.5 kilowatt-hours of capacity, this is a discount of more than $2000 on average and is available for both new and existing solar systems.
A typical household with an $1850 annual electricity bill can save around $1500 per year by installing solar
Cand a battery.
More than half of the 7,800 installations have taken place outside the Sydney Region. The scheme has reached more than 90% of all Local Government Areas in NSW, with more than 600 installers taking part across the state.
With more than one-third of NSW homes now equipped with rooftop solar systems, the ability to store this solar energy in batteries for later use offers significant benefits for household budgets and energy reliability.
The household battery incentive is part of the NSW Government’s Peak Demand Reduction Scheme, reducing peak electricity demand in NSW, maintaining grid stability during periods of high electricity demand and reducing the grid’s reliance on fossil fuels.
The NSW Government is delivering cost of living relief through $435 million in annual energy bill rebates, $200 million to support the roll-out of public EV charging stations and $175 million to make energy savings upgrades for 24,000 social housing homes.
Find out more information about the NSW Government's?household battery incentive program: https://www. energy.nsw.gov.au/households/rebates-grants-and-schemes/ household-energy-saving-upgrades/install-battery.
Member for Camden, Sally Quinnell said: “The battery incentive scheme is another great cost of living measure helping families in Camden. I encourage everyone in the Camden community to pursue the household battery incentive scheme for more sustainable and cost-effective living.”
Camden Council calls for community feedback
AMDEN Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of the Camden area, with the draft Camden Community Strategic Plan 2025–2040 and supporting documents now on public exhibition.
The draft documents were developed following extensive community engagement, with more than 1,700 people participating in surveys, pop-ups, workshops, forums and a design competition in late 2024.
Among the draft documents is the Draft Operational Plan 2025/26 and Budget. The
$730M draft budget will see the delivery of several new key projects and vital maintenance work continue across the Camden area.
We’re progressing major projects funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program. Work is underway on 11 significant projects totalling $132M, including the Camden Civic Centre Renewal and Upgrade, which will provide our area with an enhanced arts and cultural hub when it is completed in mid-2025.
Additionally, Council is advancing the
$23.1M John Street Public Domain Upgrade & Activation project. Stage one community consultation and research took place in June 2024. The next phase will translate the community input into concept designs, with further opportunities for community feedback to come.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said the community’s input is invaluable in shaping the vision for Camden’s future.
“This is a plan for the community, by the community,” Cr Cagney said.
“We’ve listened to what matters most to
residents, businesses and local organisations – and now we want to make sure we got it right. This is your chance to review the draft and have your say.”
The draft Community Strategic Plan outlines the long-term aspirations and priorities of the Camden Local Government Area (LGA), centred around five key directions –Welcoming, Liveable, Prosperous, Balanced and Leading.
Share your thoughts at www.yourvoice.camden. nsw.gov.au/csp-public-exhibition
Venue
WEXPO 2025 will be hosted at Hall 5A at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Australia.
For Exhibitors
Exhibitor Bump In: Tuesday 21st Oct – 3-5pm.
Exhibitor Bump out: Thursday 23rd – 9am – 3pm. Workshops
Commencing at 9am and running every hour with a 30-minute break in between. Details announced soon.
Workshops require registration at www.wexpo.com.au
Event opens to the public at 8am, concludes 6pm.
Local dentist celebrates over 50 Years
DR Nelson Yu-Zee Wu this week retired as a dentist at Ingleburn, where he ran his own practice for more than 50 years, starting in January 1975.
Dr Wu was born in Shanghai just after World War 2 and was lucky enough to be able to go to Hong Kong in 1955, where his family of eight lived in a housing commission one bedroom apartment.
As a teenager he migrated from Hong Kong alone 62 years ago on the merchant ship An-Shun in search of
Cbetter working opportunities after his school friend told him that Australia was a good place to be.
He attended a boarding school in Katoomba, then Sydney Boys High, and then put himself through Sydney University and went on to raise four children and have six grandchildren in Australia.
His dream as a young adult was to make sure all his children would have an easier life than him, that they would have stability, security and a chance at a good education, something he succeeded in
doing with his wife Mrs Lee Anne Wu.
He has treated generations of families in Ingleburn in his dental practice.
His skill, dedication, generosity, charisma, and sense of humour has contributed much to his community.
His wife, Lee Anne Wu, worked hard as a home maker to enable Dr Wu to have the amazing career he has had.
Congratulations Dr Nelson Yu-Zee Wu and Lee Anne Wu, and thank you for all you have done!
Call to upgrade Campbelltown Stadium
AMPBELLTOWN City Council is renewing its call for urgent investment from both the state and federal governments to upgrade Campbelltown Stadium, following ongoing advocacy efforts aimed at transforming the precinct into a premier sporting and events destination in Macarthur.
With the region continuing to grow rapidly, Campbelltown Stadium has the potential to become a key sporting hub for elite community sport, cultural events and economic development. Mayor of Campbelltown Darcy Lound said.
“The stadium is positioned perfectly in the heart of the Macarthur region, adjacent to Leumeah train station enabling ease of access for participants and spectators. However, significant infrastructure upgrades are required to bring the stadium in line with modern standards and meet the needs of a growing population.
Campbelltown Stadium plays host to several Wests’ Tigers NRL and NRLW games each year and is home to the Macarthur Bulls’ A-Leagues club. The venue hosts more than 50 events throughout the year, includ-
• Business & Work Visas
• Labour Agreements
• Training Visas (407)
• Partner Visas
• Parent Visas
• Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)
• Citizenship
ing local, state and national sporting championships along with community events.
Activity at Campbelltown Stadium is expected to increase further in the future with planning underway for the construction of a Sport and Health Centre of Excellence for junior pathways within the Leumeah stadium’s precinct.
Mayor Lound said the stadium upgrade is not only a long-standing priority for Council but also a crucial step in securing a thriving future for the local economy and community.
Ingleburn dentist, Nelson Yu-Zee Wu with his daughter, Justine Wu.
Mayor Darcy Lound.
Vote for your favourite business
THE CAMDEN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS RETURNS
Voting open for best business awards
THE Camden Local Business Awards is back, and founder Steve Loe has called on the community to nominate their favourite businesses.
Nominations for the 2025 Camden Local Business Awards opened on Monday, 7th April and will close on Tuesday, 6th May with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Monday, 7th July.
The Precedent Production Managing Director, who founded the awards four decades ago, said it was an opportuni-
ty for members of the community to encourage and show appreciation for outstanding providers of goods and services.
“Business owners, managers and staff work hard and often go above and beyond to help their clients and customers,” he said. “Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people, who are the backbone of our community.”
Voting for your favourite business is as simple as visiting the Local Business Awards website www.thebusines-
sawards.com.au.
Mr Loe said businesses could also self-nominate to show staff how much their efforts were valued.
The Camden Local Business Awards are made possible by the ongoing support of Major Partners: Camden Council and NOVA Employment, and Support Partner: White Key Marketing.
Mr Loe said the Awards Partners wanted to support the efforts of Camden businesses and acknowledge their important role in the community.
“The Awards are only possible because of the Awards Partners and their support,” he said.
The Macarther Advocate will provide updates on the progress of the Awards program and will also run a special Finalists Feature and Winners Feature.
For further information on the 2025 Camden Local Business Awards, call Precedent Productions on 8363 3333 or visit www. thebusinessawards.com.au.
VOTE FOR US CAMDEN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS
CATEGORY TOURISM & ACCOMODATION
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Vote for your favourite business
Macarthur Advocate s is again proud to support the Campbelltown Local Business Awards as media partner. Voting for the 2025 awards is now open - until May 6. To vote for your favourite business simply scan the QR code on the advertisement to be linked to the businesses’ voting
GO AHEAD – MAKE YOUR BARISTA’S DAY!
Voting now open for business awards
WE may not know their names, but the people behind the counter or desk, who make our coffee, fill our prescription, or style our hair often play an important part in our everyday lives.
That’s because they’re often the ones who listen sympathetically if we’re having a bad day, share our excitement when we have good news or just get our morning off to a good start with a smile and a coffee made just the way we like it.
Now is the chance for the Campbelltown community to recognise the baristas, pharmacists, hairdressers, and
countless others whose outstanding service makes a difference to our daily lives.
Nominations for the 2025 Campbelltown Local Business Awards opened on Monday, 7th April, and the hundreds of online nominations already received show that businesses in Campbelltown have many loyal and happy customers who appreciate their efforts.
“The Campbelltown community is always an enthusiastic supporter of the awards, which shows not only the high calibre of the businesses in this area, but the wonderful community spirit of those who live and work in
Campbelltown.”
“I encourage anyone who hasn’t already nominated a business that they feel is deserving of recognition, to jump online and do so. Nominating your favourite business is as simple as hopping onto the Awards’ website www.thebusinessawards.com.au and searching for the business you wish to nominate.”
Mr Loe said the Awards Partners wanted to support the efforts of Campbelltown businesses and acknowledge their important role in the community.
The Campbelltown Local Business Awards are made possible by the on-
going support of Major Partner: NOVA Employment, and Support Partners: Macarthur Square, Rosemeadow Marketplace, Campbelltown Mall, and White Key Marketing.
Nominations close on Tuesday, 6th May.
The Macarther Advocate will provide weekly updates on the progress of the Awards program and will also run a special Finalists Feature and Winners Feature.
For further information on the 2025 Campbelltown Local Business Awards, call Precedent Productions on 8363 3333 or visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
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Return and Earn returns $1.3B in refunds
NSW’s Return and Earn scheme has reached a major milestone, with 13 billion drink containers recycled since its 2017 launch - returning over $1.3B refunds to the community and raising $72M for charities. The program has saved water, energy, and cut emissions, reducing litter by 73%. With over 650 return points statewide, participation is strong, especially in regional areas. The scheme continues to support sustainability, community causes, and the circular economy, turning waste into valuable resources across NSW.
Anxiety disorders during, after pregnancy
RESEARCHERS from UNSW Sydney and the George Institute have launched a five-year study into perinatal intrusions - distressing, vivid thoughts of infant-related harm experienced by most women during and after pregnancy. Often misunderstood and under-researched, these thoughts can lead to anxiety disorders affecting both mother and infant. The study will explore biological, social, and cognitive factors, including hormone sensitivity, to identify those most at risk. The aim is to inform early interventions and improve perinatal mental health outcomes for mothers and their babies.
Aussie super surpasses UK and Canada
AUSTRALIA’S superannuation system is projected to become the world’s second largest by 2031, surpassing the UK and Canada, according to the Super Members Council. With $4.1 trillion in assets, the system is growing twice as fast as global peers, reducing reliance on the Age Pension and easing pressure on taxpayers. Key policy settings—universal coverage, compulsory contributions, and preservation until retirement - drive its success. A super fund delegation is in the US seeking global investment opportunities to grow members’ retirement savings further.
Sydney confirmed as host for NRL finals
SYDNEY has been confirmed as the host of the 2025 NRL and NRLW Grand Finals, to be held on Sunday 5 October at Accor Stadium. The deal cements Sydney’s status as the home of rugby league, where the Grand Final has traditionally been played. With strong fan interest and the sport’s expansion into global markets, the event will bring major economic and cultural benefits to NSW. It also highlights the city’s growing international profile in major sporting events.
Funds to address wheelchair taxi shortage
THE NSW Government has launched a $15M emergency funding package to address the critical shortage of wheelchair accessible taxis (WATs), which have declined by one-third since 2019. The package includes increased driver incentives, new grants for vehicle costs, and improved driver training. An interest-free loan scheme has also been expanded. This urgent response aims to restore access for people with disability, while a longer-term reform plan is being developed in consultation with the community to ensure sustainable transport services.
Mental health support for first responders
THE NSW Government has launched a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for first responders, now including forestry, national parks, and transport workers alongside traditional emergency services. The strategy outlines 15 priority actions to improve mental health support, with a focus on accessibility in regional areas. Measures include Psychological First Aid training, clinical care referrals, and peer-support services. This proactive approach ensures all first responders receive tailored, trauma-informed support throughout their careers, promoting long-term wellbeing and workforce sustainability.
Surge in rough sleeping in regional areas
ROUGH sleeping in Australia has surged 22% nationwide since 2020, with a 51% rise in NSWespecially in regional areas - due to a worsening housing crisis. More employed Australians are seeking help, and services are overwhelmed. Rising rents, limited social housing, and funding shortfalls are pushing more people into homelessness. Experts warn urgent action and investment in prevention and housing solutions are needed to address what is now a national homelessness emergency.
Better feedback from breast screening
FROM April 2025, BreastScreen NSW will begin informing women of their breast density to help assess breast cancer risk. Dense breast tissue can make cancer harder to detect on mammograms and is a known risk factor. The change won’t affect appointment times, and women with high density are encouraged to speak with their doctor. Mammograms remain the best screening method, especially for women aged 50–74, with earlier screening advised for Aboriginal women.
Govt invests in keeping youth on track
THE NSW Government is investing over $270,000 in a new partnership with the NRL and PCYC to tackle regional youth crime and build stronger communities. The program will engage young people through events featuring NRL stars, police, and PCYC staff, promoting mental health, fitness, and positive choices. It complements broader crime prevention efforts, including tougher laws and youth mentoring initiatives like Project Pathfinder, aiming to keep young people on track and enhance safety in regional NSW communities.
VAPE HONEYMOON UP IN SMOKE Changing laws around vaping
PERSONAL possession and use of vapes is not criminalised in Australia – yet.
But the situation for the manufacturers and retailers of vapes has changed as of July 2024, when the manufacture, supply and commercial possession of disposable single use vapes became unlawful.
While the tobacco wars continue in Melbourne, new criminal offences and civil penalty provisions now apply under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 as of July 2024.
Questions are being asked in some quarters about whether the rollout of the tougher laws has been properly handled.
“The government is
entitled to take such action against vapers as it sees fit but there is an obligation to make sure that people know about the changes in the law,” according to Sydney criminal law specialist Mathew Nott.
“At the moment, if you are not selling vapes out of a pharmacy, you are going to be selling vapes illegally.
“I would guarantee that you would not have to look too hard in certain parts of Sydney to find retailers unwittingly selling vapes simply because they are not aware of the change to the law.”
Vapes are battery-powered electronic cigarettes (e-cigarette) that contain nicotine and are used in place of smoking tobacco.
But the regulations state that until 30 September 2024, you will need a prescription.
However, from October 1, 2024, if you are 18 years or older you can purchase a vape from a pharmacy without a prescription. If you are under 18, you will still require a prescription subject to state and territory laws.
Under the Public Health (Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2023 amendments have also been made which have come into force from July this year.
These include plain packaging, flavours will be limited and the bans regarding tobacco advertisement will also apply to vapes.
What are the new penalties?
The penalties are set out in the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Act 2024. These reforms are targeting suppliers and manufacturers, not individuals.
This means that personal use of vapes that have been lawfully supplied and are less than the permitted quantities will not attract a criminal offence.
However, illegal suppliers will still face a range of consequences. This will differ based on the quantity of vape products.
The penalties include: Importing, manufacturing or supplying: Imprisonment of 7 years or $550, 000 or both.
Possessing as a retailer, less than commercial quantity: Imprisonment of 12 months or $55,000 or both. Possessing at least commercial quantity: Imprisonment of 2 years or $110,000 or both.
The commercial quantity from October 1, is nine vaping devices, 60 vaping accessories and 400mL of vaping substance. https:// www.tga.gov.au/sites/ default/files/2024-07/possession-and-supply-of-vaping-goods-in-australia-guidance.pdf
If you have found yourself in legal trouble regarding vape offences, contact Nott and Co Lawyers. www.nottandcolawyers.com.au
NEW Launched in Western Sydney Dementia Care Navigator Service
Western Sydney is home to over a million people, 53% of whom were born overseas, and 58% of whom speak a language other than English at home. With estimates that more than 436,000 Australians are living with dementia, and two-thirds of those living in community, it is crucial that people have access to free navigation tools to get the support they deserve.
WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network are funding the Dementia Care Navigator to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds navigate the health system and access the right support services whilst seeking a dementia diagnosis or following a diagnosis.
What is the Dementia Care Navigator?
The Dementia Care Navigator is designed to support people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to learn about dementia, seek a diagnosis, connect with service providers, and access services at all stages of the dementia journey.
Who can Access it?
The Dementia Care Navigator service is available in Blacktown, Cumberland, Parramatta, and The Hills Local Government areas. It aims to connect people who speak a language other than English to government-funded dementia care services and supports. The service offers group information sessions, ongoing one-on-one support, expert advice, and access to translated resources and interpretation services.
The Dementia Care Navigator service is available to:
9 Individuals who primarily speak English as a second language.
9 Those concerned about their memory.
9 People who suspect that someone they know may have dementia.
9 Individuals living with dementia, along with their carers and families.
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
How to access the Dementia Care Navigator Service:
For more information, to register, or to refer to the service, scan the QR code, visit www. dementia.org.au/get-support or call the National Dementia Helpline at 1800 100 500. Language assistance is available by calling 131 450.
Dementia Australia offers a wide range of resources for health professionals and community members, including The Dementia Guide available on their website.
WINTER TRAVELLING IN THE USA Utah has everything
STARGAZING, skiing, tobogganing, ice castle experience, interesting history and great dining. Make sure you put Utah on your radar as your next winter holiday. It is wonderful in all seasons but don’t miss Utah in the winter - it’s particularly special.
Go For the Snow
Park City Mountain Resort is the USA’s largest snow resort and is only 30-35 minutes by car, uber or shuttle bus from Salt Lake International Airport. Park City Mountain Resort has two mountain bases, Park City and the Canyons - and both offer slightly different experiences. The Canyons has a brand-new upmarket accommodation, shopping and dining precinct called The Pendry, with amazing Japanese and Mexican food and a new gondola being installed over summer ready for winter season 2025/26. This will whisk guests from right outside the Pendry precinct up to the Red Pine skiing area. At the Park City Mountain base side you can ski from the top of the resort all the way down to Park City’s historic Main Street. Here you can go shopping, eat lunch or grab a coffee and catch a chairlift back up, all just 5 metres from the front of your restaurant in the Main Street of the town. I can’t think of another snow resort where you can have this unique experience, and I have visited 100 snow resorts in the USA, Europe and America. Find out more about Park City skiing at www.skiutah.com
History
Park City has a colourful history as a mining town, back in the 19th and 20th centuries silver, lead and zinc were extracted from the mountains and consequently you can ski around on the mountain and still see remnants of mining equipment large and small from this era. As you ski around it’s fun to see mining themes in the daylodges when you stop for lunch or a drink, and you can sign up to get a tour, skiing around picturesque mining structures that sit with a backdrop of snow. Tours run every day at 10am and 12.30pm during the winter season and check the schedule for details www. parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/activities/winter-activities/historic-mountain-tours
Sundance Film Festival
Every January, Park City hosts the
Sundance Film Festival, an independent short film and documentary film festival that celebrates emerging talent and thought-provoking ideas in 11 categories over 11 days. Films are shown at different venues around Park City and the town comes alive with festival-goers dining, discussing, walking between different films and even throwing on the skis for a few laps at Park City Mountain. Head to www. festival.sundance.org/ for next year’s tickets, the festival runs from 22nd January to the 1st February 2026.
Food culture
Did you know Park City is well-known as a foodie destination? Walk along Main Street and enjoy the colourful street scene with bars, pubs and restaurants vying for your attention. Riverhorse on Main offers American fine dining with seasonal food and local ingredients. High West Distillery & Saloon serves American pub food and as the first legal distillery in Utah since the Prohibition era has a range of craft spirits and unique charm. The Farm, on the Canyons base side offers American farm to table meals and is a fun place
to sit outside on a sunny day. Midway Mercantile is a short drive from Park City Main street and a great American dining experience in a refurbished general store. It serves up locally sourced cuisine from fresh local ingredients and centres on a hearth-to-table family dining experience. www.parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/during-your-stay/dining
Activities Galore
Just 20 minutes down the road from Park City Main Street is an activities precinct that offers family snow tubing. Soldiers Hollow Nordic Center has the longest tubing lanes in Utah at 1200 feet (365 metres) long, so long you need a conveyor belt to get to the top. Sessions go for 2 hours, it is an experience suitable for Grandma as well as toddlers, dress warmly as this exciting ride is an outdoor experience.
Ice Castles
Is an all-ages activity best enjoyed at night when the sun goes down as purpose-built ice castles, sculptures and slides are lit up with neon lights and music. This activation is hand-built by 20 to 40 ice artists, and all 12,000 icicles are made by hand. It is across the road from the Soldier Hollow tubing activity and takes about an hour so if you plan ahead you can enjoy both before heading to
the Midway Mercantile for a warm meal. Don’t forget to book your activities and dining ahead.
Star gazing and Pitch Black Skies
Utah has several locations recognised as International Dark Sky Places, such as Antelope Island State Park, a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City, known for amazing night sky quality. It is worth experiencing if you have more time in the area and perhaps a couple of nights staying in Salt Lake City before or after your flight.
Easy Access
Utah is a very easy destination to get to with flights into Salt Lake City via a quick stopover in Los Angeles with many airlines to choose from. There are plenty of shuttle bus services available from Salt Lake City International Airport to get you from the airport to Park City and it’s best to reserve a seat in advance. Ubers are frequent and very reliable and once you’re in Park City, the free bus system will take you to both snow resort mountain bases, Main Street and Kimbell Junction if you enjoy outlet shopping. You really don’t need a car and using public transport is a fun and easy way to mix with locals and find out firsthand what live music, events and activities are, so don’t be shy to have a chat.
Explore more of Utah at www.visitutah.com.
Escape to the Mountains - Chalet Alpina, Jindabyne
Are you craving a mountain getaway?
Chalet Alpina is Jindabyne’s luxury family escape and is open
across Easter for autumn hikes, bike rides and fishing in Lake Jindabyne. Bring the family down and enjoy Thredbo’s Eas-
ter Adventure Festival in Thredbo with a treasure hunt, arts and crafts, rock climbing and face painting, Saturday 12 - Sunday 27 April, 2025. Winter bookings for Chalet Alpina are now open for the snow season, June 6th to late September. Chalet Alpina is in Jindabyne’s quiet Gippsland St, an easy stroll into town for after-skiing dinner and right across the road from the bus (winter schedule only) Jump online and reserve your room before you miss out. www.chaletalpina.com.au
Memphis, your music bucket-list
Soulful music attractions, cool and creative hotels, vibrant nightlife and some of the best BBQ in the world. These are just some of the reasons travellers should visit the Home of Blues, Soul & Rock’n’Roll.Now, there’s a range of new hotels and restaurants opening and fun events taking place in 2025 that make the destination a must-travel for Aussies.
• A recently opened Aloft Hotel in Downtown with a golf course and rooftop
• A refurbished haunted hotel
• New tiki-inspired cocktail bar and a fine dining venue
• Big celebrations around both Elvis Presley’s and B.B. King’s birthdays
• Summer festivals and rooftop parties that are a must during a trip to Memphis
DON’T MISS Elvis Presley’s 90th Birthday (January): The former home turned museum, Graceland puts on a series of events to celebrate the late King’s birthday, including a new exhibit with 90 curated artifacts available for the duration of 2025.
Explore more of Memphis: www.memphistravel.com
ASnow Action magazine relaunched
USTRALIA’S premier snow publication, in print for over 27 years is relaunching May 2025 with a fresh look and an increased focus on women as skiers, snowboarders, travellers and key family decision makers.
Editor Emma Wilson says: “I made this decision based on the needs of the families around me, including my own. We want to be able to decide which
destinations we’d like to take our babies, toddlers, teenagers and adult kids to, what gear and season passes to buy and we do not want the decisions to be made by just the males of the family. Gone are the days the guys go on a trip and the women stay at home - or just tag along just to ski alone all day. I’m bringing the wonderful world of snow sports up to speed to reflect what we want”.
Snow Action magazine will be available in newsagents across Australia from MidMay 2025. It will be in visitor show bags at the Sydney Snow Travel Expo at Darling Harbour’s International Convention Centre on Sunday 25 th May. Come along and discover over 70 snow destinations for your next snow trip.
