Macarthur Advocate March 2026

MACARTHUR’S TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS VOICE

WWW.MACARTHURADVOCATE.AU

March 2026

Macarthur

CHANGES IN ATO TAX DEBT INTEREST ALDI OPENS AT AEROTROPLOIS

JESSE’S DREAM

LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS LAUNCHED On track for success: Oran Park’s Jesse Mowczan.

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T 21, Oran Park’s Jesse Mowczan was on track to compete in wheelchair rugby at the Paris Paralympics. An extensive operation related to his disability set back his training, but he hasn’t let it stop him. Now back in the gym and training hard, Jesse is more determined than ever, with his next goal to complete the 2026 City2Surf. While living in the Blue Mountains, Jesse was eager to find a sport to pursue. Wheelchair basketball was the only option available, so he gave it a go, but the sport lacked the support he needed. It wasn’t until he tried wheelchair rugby at a local gala day that he found his calling and after playing at a camp in Menai with his brother, Jesse discovered his passion and has been committed to wheelchair rugby ever since. So what inspired him to chase the Paralympic dream? More inside.

Your guide to frailly friendly living.

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ISSUE 39 | March 2025 How to get Advocate The Macarthur Advocate is available at strategic locations throughout Blacktown LGA. To find a location near you visit our website.

Digital edition Each edition of The Macarthur Advocate can be viewed and downloaded in digitalf format at our ISSUU platform:

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

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Contacts Editorial info@macathuradvocate.au

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Admin and General info@macathuradvocate.au Editor Michael Walls michael@accessnews.com.au

Advertising sales Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au Linda Miller linda@accesnews.com.au

Free business support sessions at Camden.

Women in business: Cost of pushing too hard.

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Administration Rebecca Swaleh

PARENTOPIA: Experts urge more outdoor play.

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Support Partner Local Business Awards in Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly.

News..............................................3 Mental health ................................10 Business awards...........................13

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Our sister publication covers the high growth area of Sydney’s North West, bounded by Blacktown, Hills and Hawkesbury Councils, including: Kellyville Ridge, Marsden Park, Riverstone, Schfields, The Ponds, Plumpton, Stanhope, Collebee and more.

Local news voice for Sydney’s North West www.thenorthwestnews.au | www.facebook.com/thenorthwestnews/

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

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A WHEELCHAIR DOESN’T LIMIT JESSE….

Chasing his Paralympic dreams SASWATI MUKHERJEE

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On track for success

T 21, Oran Park’s Jesse Mowczan was on track to compete in wheelchair rugby at the Paris Paralympics.

An extensive operation related to his disability set back his training, but he hasn’t let it stop him. Now back in the gym and training hard, Jesse is more determined than ever. His next goal to complete the 2026 City2Surf in his wheelchair.

While living in the Blue Mountains, Jesse was eager to find a sport to pursue. Wheelchair basketball was the only option available, so he gave it a go, but the sport lacked the support he needed.

It wasn’t until he tried wheelchair rugby at a local gala day that he found the sport appealing.

After also playing at a camp in Menai with his brother, Jesse discovered his passion and has been committed to wheelchair rugby ever since.

So, what inspired him to chase the Paralympic dream?

“Just my passion for rugby and the idea of representing country and family – that would make me exceptionally proud,” said Jesse.

Wheelchair rugby is demanding and Jesse puts in plenty of hard work. A typical training week includes compulsory cardio, along with two or three gym and weight sessions.

Before a big game, he trains longer on weekends, with four to five hours on either Saturday or Sunday. In his free time, Jesse enjoys practising ball skills and playing tags with his younger brother.

Before any major competition, Jesse takes in some quiet time alone, either indoors or outside in the fresh air, to visualise success. He also prepares detailed game plans for the position he will play. “I make sure to focus on my diet, avoid junk food, eat plenty of protein and be conscious of the fuel I put in my body, while prioritising recovery,” he said.

Speaking of challenges, Jesse sayd that wheelchair rugby is highly skill-based and mastering those skills can be tough given the limited training time players have.

Outside of sport, Jesse enjoys training, exercising, and exploring new places — going somewhere he hasn’t been before. Beyond his sporting goals, he hopes to find meaningful work helping other people with a disability achieve their own fitness and sporting ambitions.

Jesse sees himself as an advocate for others with a disability and hopes others would look up to him as a role model to pursue their goals.

“My biggest inspiration and role model is my older brother, Mitchell. He played footy, and I always wanted to play alongside him and be like him.

But it’s not just about sport — he helps so many people in the community and is always giving back.

That’s something I would love to do too,” said Jesse.

This year, his main focus is completing the City2Surf in his wheelchair. “It’s my first time doing it, so I just want to know I can finish. Next time, I’ll aim to improve my time. It’s all about strategy, knowing when to push, when to pace yourself, and managing your energy and strength,” he said.

For now, his goal is the City2Surf, but he looks forward to trying other events later.

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Aldi to open at Aerotropolis

NEW billion-dollar Aldi Automated Distribution Centre has been approved in the Aerotropolis, continuing momentum and signalling growing global investment confidence in one of Western Sydney’s most strategically important precincts.

The innovative logistics hub, will be the size of 15 soccer fields and is expected to create around 3,700 construction jobs and 585 permanent local jobs, providing a major economic boost for Western Sydney.

Located beside the new Western Sydney Airport the global retail giant will be able to take advantage of incoming national and international freight to supply their more than 200 of its stores across the state.

Once built it will operate 24/7 with around 80 per cent of operations to be automated and rooftop solar panels, energy efficient design to help

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

Artist impression of the new complex.

the facility reach a goal of net-zero operations by 2035.

The Aldi project is the biggest distribution centre green lit in the Aerotropolis and the first state significant approval within the Ingham Property Group Master Plan area, which is a key Aerotropolis precinct designed for mixed‑use industrial, commercial and retail opportunities located adjacent to Bradfield City, Australia’s first new city in 100 years.

The recently released draft Sydney Plan outlines the long‑term vision for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and Bradfield City as a nationally significant centre for jobs, industry and global connectivity, anchored by Western Sydney International Airport and new city‑shaping infrastructure.

Since 2023 the Minns Labor Government have approved seven projects worth more than $1.9 billion in the Aerotropolis with a further 25 worth

more than $5.8 billion in the pipeline.

Approved State Significant Developments in the Aerotropolis, include the Bradfield City’s 2 Advanced Manufacturing Research Facilities and large-scale industrial estates such as the Elizabeth Enterprise Precinct and Barings Luddenham Industrial Estate.

Deputy Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said: “This billion-dollar investment will create more than 3,700 jobs and over 500 ongoing roles, a strong show of confidence in the potential of the Aerotropolis precinct.

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on our promise to grow Western Sydney by backing projects that create jobs, attract investment, and unlock opportunity.

“This project will further solidify Western Sydney as a critical hub of employment, industry, and innovation.”

New bus routes to start from July

OMMUTERS from Penrith through to Campbelltown now have a start date for five new permanent bus routes, with the NSW Government announcing the services to Western International Airport will commence on July 5. In uncertain times, families want confidence, security and a clear plan for the future and delivering the infrastructure

growing communities need is a central part of that plan. This $302.7M investment in the five new routes is part of an overall $362.7M investment allocated to new Western Sydney bus services by the Government since taking office. Starting three months ahead of passenger airline services, the routes from Penrith (790), Campbelltown (845), Liverpool (825

and 860) and Mount Druitt (772), will be begin connecting surrounding communities and businesses along with locals who work at the new airport in construction and freight. As Western Sydney continues to grow, these services will ensure local communities are connected to the jobs and economic opportunities created by the new airport.

As your local member for Camden,

I’m here to help.

SALLY QUINNELL MP

STATE MEMBER FOR CAMDEN

(02) 4655 3333 Camden@parliament.nsw.gov.au PO Box 1084 Narellan NSW 2567 sallyquinnell.au Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567

Authorised by Sally Quinnell MP, Shops G20/21 Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way, Narellan NSW 2567. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. August 2024.

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Scan the QR codes to explore a selection of our publications and projects and see how we bring community, commerce and content together to achieve results.

We welcome conversations with organisations and businesses looking to build visibility, strengthen reputation and unlock new opportunities through trusted local media and custom projects.

Let’s create something powerful together.

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

Council welcomes airport connection

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AMPBELLTOWN Council has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement of a $1B commitment to secure a new railway corridor connecting Sydney southwest residents to the new Western Sydney Airport.

This outcome comes after advocacy from Campbelltown and other local communities, who have long called for better transport infrastructure to support our region’s growth.

A new railway corridor will be crucial in linking Macarthur to the Bradfield Aerotropolis and beyond, fostering economic development, easing road congestion, and strengthening connectivity across Western Sydney.

“This commitment to invest is great news for our community and the wider region. We have been advocating for this connection for many years, and today’s announcement from the Prime Minister, The Hon. Anthony Albanese is a step towards making it a reality,” Mayor Cr Darcy Lound said.

“A dedicated rail corridor will ensure we can accommodate future population growth, create new economic opportunities, and provide our residents with better access to jobs, education, and essential services,” Cr Lound said.

“This is the first step in delivering the infrastructure our residents deserve. We will keep pushing for further investment and look forward

to future announcements on the planning, design, and construction phases of this transformative connection for our city.” Cr Lound said.

Free business support sessions at Camden

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AMDEN Council is offering free one-on-one business support sessions to help local businesses learn, grow and thrive. The initiative, which is a partnership with the Service NSW Business Bureau and supported by Sarina Russo Entrepreneurs, launched on March 12, and will be

held on the second Thursday of each month. The personalised one-hour sessions will connect Camden business owners with experienced business coaches and government support services. The sessions, delivered at Camden Council’s Administration Building, aim to strengthen business foun-

dations, identify growth opportunities, address key challenges and provide practical, tailored advice to help owners make informed decisions and plan for success. Businesses can book the free sessions up to three months in advance through the online booking platform. Visit www.camden.nsw.gov.au

AN UPDATE FROM OPPOSITION LEADER’S DESK

Discover Macarthur Memorial Park, Sydney’s newest cemetery Set across 113 hectares of tranquil parkland, Macarthur Memorial Park offers affordable burial options, with inclusive spaces for most beliefs and cultures.

On my first day as Opposition Leader, I spoke about the need to restore Australia’s standard of living and protect our way of life. Under Labor, inflation is higher than in any major advanced economy, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, France and Japan. As a result, interest rates have risen again when they were expected to fall.

Labor has been covering up the real crisis it has created in Australia’s energy system. With temporary energy rebates now expired, the latest figures reveal the true cost of Labor’s failed energy policies, with electricity prices rising 32 per cent in the past year.

When last in government, the Coalition delivered a comprehensive fuel security package. This included establishing a domestic fuel reserve through a Minimum Stockholding Obligation, safeguarding key transport fuel stocks, and increasing diesel stockholdings by 40 per cent from mid 2024.

It also supported long term domestic refining capability through the Fuel Security Services Payment and created a national Diesel Storage Program. Reports of potential fuel rationing are concerning, as energy and fuel costs flow into the price of groceries, freight and power bills. Australians were already paying too much for essential goods before the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

There is also extensive discussion about the unfolding situation in the region. The Iranian regime is authoritarian, antisemitic and deeply hostile. It seeks nuclear weapons, supports terrorism through its proxies, and has supplied weapons to Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. It has also been linked to terrorist activity on Australian soil.

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

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Changes in ATO tax debt interest MICHAEL MOON

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F you've got ATO debt, the interest on it is probably costing you more than you think. And the rules just changed.

The ATO charges interest on unpaid tax. It's called General Interest Charge and it runs every day, including the days you pay. Since July last year it stopped being tax-deductible. If your business owed $50,000 in GIC last year, the tax deduction meant the real cost was closer to $35,000. This year it costs $50,000. Same debt, 30% more expensive. And it's still compounding.

This has been building for years. The interest owed by Australian businesses has grown 185% in six years. The actual debt grew 94%. Of the $54.2 billion the ATO is chasing, 18 cents in every dollar is now interest. Six years ago it was 13 cents. For many businesses, interest has overtaken the original debt. That's part of what brought this review into being.

The shift became visible in late 2023. The ATO moved into collection mode. Refusal rates on remission applications increased — these are the formal requests businesses make to have GIC reduced or waived, sometimes completely.

The professional community noticed and complaints to the Ombudsman followed. Last week the Tax Ombudsman released its review. The ATO accepted all four recommendations. The Ombudsman will be monitoring implementation. But when you have tax debt, the one thing you don't have is time. So here is what changed, what it means, and what to do today.

A payment plan stops enforcement. It does not stop the interest. GIC compounds every day you are on the plan. The only way to reduce that cost is a remission application running alongside it. The

Michael Moon.

reconsideration pathway this review has opened is a genuine opportunity — for the first time a refused application is not the end of the road.

You can now ask for the decision to be looked at again on the basis that the criteria weren't applied correctly. No new evidence. No lawyers. No federal court. That last part matters more than it sounds.

Until now, your only avenue to challenge a refusal was a tribunal or court process most businesses couldn't afford or stomach.

This is a genuine change. If you got knocked back in the past 18 months and the full story wasn't put forward, it's worth another look.

Most businesses with ATO debt have grounds.

The question is whether the case is put together well enough to succeed.

But the door only opens if you knock on it correctly. The standard of application is the bottleneck.

The approval rates in the review sound good: 84% for large businesses, 75-77% for small. But those came

from 126,000 applications out of 19.7 million lodging taxpayers. Six in every thousand.

Those businesses were the ones who knew to apply in the first place, and in all likelihood had specialist help. The new pathway will only deliver those outcomes to businesses that bring the same level of preparation to it. Whether this produces real outcome change at volume is still an open question. Time will tell.

Most people think their accountant covers this. A good accountant might have five ATO debt cases on the go at any time. We run more than 150. That's not a dig. It's the difference between knowing the rules and knowing how they play out in practice. There's no case officer filling gaps anymore. What you submit is what gets assessed.

One in three businesses that defaulted on ATO debt were gone within six months. That is the CreditorWatch number across 19,439 companies. Not struggling. Gone. Getting to $100,000 is not hard.

GIC alone can double a debt in a few years without a payment arrangement in place. The ATO flags your debt to credit bureaus at $100,000. Most businesses don't know that until it happens. We start worrying at $70,000.

The door is open. The question is whether you can get through it. The businesses that do will have acted early, prepared properly, and worked with people who do this every day.

Don't wait to find out which side of that line you're on.

Michael Moon is a Director at Tax Assure, a specialist tax debt negotiation firm. Tax Assure works on an assessment and engagement fee followed by a success fee based on GIC and penalties actually remitted. Initial consults are obligation free.

1300 952 295 | taxassure.com.au

Start a conversation with someone who gets you Are you looking for support or worried about someone you care about? Call Medicare Mental Health and we’ll guide you to the right services and supports for your needs. Phone 1800 595 212.

Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.

The phone service is free for anyone seeking support and guidance, including family members and carers.

You can call the phone service between 8:30am to 5:00pm weekdays (excl. public holidays).

Save to your phone

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CWA calls for cancer support centre

EPRESENTATIVES of the Country Women’s Association Wollondilly Group has publicly called for support for the funding of a Cancer Treatment Centre at Bowral Hospital.

President Jennifer Woodwell said: “CWA advocates for public cancer patients in the Southern Highlands to receive treatment in Bowral.

“The population across the Southern Highlands has grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, and this growth is set to accelerate. Simultaneously, the dramatic expansion in South West Sydney particularly in Menangle Park, Wilton, and the Western Sydney Airport corridor means our residents will be competing for oncology services at already stretched hospitals in Campbelltown and Liverpool.”

“Despite increasing demand, Southern Highlands cancer patients are currently served by a small pub-

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

MP Judy Hannan with members of the CWA.

lic/private partnership clinic operating from a private hospital, supported only part-time by generalist

oncologists from Campbelltown.

“Many are still travelling long distances for diagnosis and treatment, some over 90 minutes each way, placing immense physical, emotional, and financial strain on patients and their families.”

Welcoming the request, Wollondilly MP Judy Hannan said: “I thank the Country Women’s Association for adding their voice to our call for a Cancer Treatment Centre at Bowral Hospital. I won’t rest until the centre is delivered so that we get the services to match the growth that we have received."

“The numbers we have don’t even count patients that are privately referred outside of the region. As an independent I get to lobby for what is needed, not what is politically easy and I look forward to working with the Government to get this vital service for Wollondilly and the Southern Highlands.”

Public school upgrades for Wollondilly

HE NSW Government is delivering new schools and vital infrastructure upgrades across the growing Wollondilly area to ensure local students have access to world-class public schools with excellent facilities and opportunities.

The school infrastructure includes brand new schools in Wilton, upgrades at Bowral High School and Picton High School to improve student opportunities and outcomes, and vital maintenance work to ensure existing schools provide a high-quality learning environment.

Bowral High School has recently celebrated the opening of their new industry-standard creative and performing arts centre, dubbed ‘The Theatre’, as part of a commitment to enhance high potential and gifted education (HPGE) opportunities for students.

The state-of-the-art performing arts space provides students opportunities to develop backstage skills, along with public-facing drama, dance, music, debating and movie making opportunities. ‘The Theatre’ is also available for public school students across the Southern Highlands region to use.

As part of the NSW Government’s commitment to provide HPGE opportunities at all NSW public schools, teachers at Bowral High School are receiving targeted training to ensure best use of the new performing arts centre.

The Bowral High School upgrade also includes visual arts and science classrooms, hospitality facilities fitted out to industry standard, wood and metal work rooms.

At Picton High School, a recent upgrade has transformed unworkable learning spaces delivered under the failed open-plan learning experiment

of the former Liberal National government into 26 state-of-the-art classrooms, as well as seven new staff and seminar rooms.

Construction is also underway on the new high school, public primary school and public preschool for the growing community of Wilton, with all three set to open Day 1, Term 1, 2027.

In addition to the new and upgraded schools, there are currently more than 15 maintenance and minor works projects underway in Wollondilly’s existing public schools to ensure students have a great environment to learn in.

Camden Local Business Awards Luanch 2026 13

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

CAMDEN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS RETURNS

Time for voting fast approaching

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HE Camden Local Business Awards Program is back, and it’s almost time for you to nominate your favourite business.

Nominations for the 2026 Camden Local Business Awards open on Monday, 6 April 2026 and will close on Tuesday, 5 May 2026 with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Monday, 6 July 2026.

For over four decades, the awards have shared success stories, inspired businesspeople, and united the local community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and founder of the Local Business Awards, Steve Loe said the program presents the opportunity for local businesses to be recognised for their hard work and celebrate their achievements.

“Many businesses have expressed over the years just how much it means to them to be nominated for an award and recognised for their efforts.”

Mr Loe encourages everyone in the community to cast their vote and show appreciation for the outstanding goods and services providers of Camden.

Last year’s gala event.

“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people, who are the backbone of our community”, said Mr Loe. Businessowners, now is the time to get involved – to register your business or update your profile for the awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au

The Camden Local Business Awards are made possible through the ongoing support of our Major Partners: Camden Council and NOVA Employment, and Support Partners: Bx Networking.

Mr Loe extends his thanks to the Awards Partners for their support and commitment to celebrating the achievements of local businesses in the

Camden community.

As our official Media Partner, Macarther Advocate will provide updates on the awards program and run a special finalists and winners feature.

For further information on the 2026 Camden Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au

Fire Meat Smoke — a father and son duo delivering bold, world-first biltong flavours in the heart of Camden and nationwide.

At Fire Meat Smoke, biltong is crafted the traditional way by father and son, Matt and JP. Using premium grass fed and grass finished beef sourced from Tasmania’s pristine pastures, every piece is carefully seasoned and air-dried.

While still at school, JP joined his dad in the process, learning the patience and pride behind the craft. Together they are continuing a tradition of producing wholesome, flavour rich biltong, a natural superfood made with care, family values, and a passion for honest food.

Dedicated to quality service, giving back to the community, and offering premium hormone-free, antibiotic-free meats in store as well as giving elite advice on your cook ups.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/firemeatsmoke Instagram: www.instagram.com/firemeatsmoke Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@firemeatsmoke Website: www.firemeatsmoke.com.au Matt Plotz Fire Meat Smoke 0427 836 620 Firemeatsmoke@gmail.com

FINALIST CAMDEN

VOTE FOR US

Find a local business that comes to you in person or remotely. From dentists to your door, removalists, trades, telehealth, food and more

www.bizfind.com.au

SCAN THE QR CODE TO VOTE FOR US IN THE CAMDEN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Campbelltown Local Business Awards Luanch 2026 19

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

CAMPBELLTOWN LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS RETURNS

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Be ready, voting opens soon

HE Campbelltown Local Business Awards is back, and it’s almost time for you to nominate your favourite business.

Nominations for the 2026 Campbelltown Local Business Awards open on Monday, 6 April 2026 and will close on Tuesday, 5 May 2026 with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Tuesday, 7 July 2026.

For over four decades, the awards have shared success stories, inspired businesspeople, and united the local community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and founder of the Local Business Awards, Steve Loe said the program presents the opportunity for local businesses to be recognised for their hard work and celebrate their achievements.

“Many businesses have expressed over the years just how much it means to them to be nominated for an award and recognised for their efforts.”

Mr Loe encourages everyone in the community to cast their vote and show appreciation for the outstanding goods and services providers of Campbelltown.

“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a

Last year’s gala event.

great way to thank these people, who are the backbone of our community”, said Mr Loe. Businessowners, now is the time to get involved – to register your business or update your profile for the awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au The Campbelltown Local Business Awards are made possible through the

ongoing support of our Major Partner: NOVA Employment, and Support Partners: Macarthur Square, Rosemeadow Marketplace, Campbelltown Mall, and Bx Networking.

Mr Loe extends his thanks to the Awards Partners for their support and commitment to celebrating the achievements of local businesses in the

Campbelltown community.

As our official Media Partner, Macarther Advocate will provide updates on the awards program and run a special finalists and winners feature.

For further information on the 2026 Campbelltown Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards. com.au

MENANGLE COUNTRY CLUB

COMBINING COUNTRY CHARM WITH ELEGANT SOPHISTICATION Designed with innovation our menu showcases locally sourced produce from Australian-owned suppliers to create awardwinning dining experiences that are ideal for sharing, celebrating, and relaxed dining with family and friends.

Scan the QR code to view the new menu!

Swim Experts are a private, boutique aquatic facility that is dedicated to delivering high-quality, child-focused programs led by highly qualified and experienced educators with backgrounds in education and childcare.

We specialise in:

I am a psychic medium and I offer readings to my clients. I give them clarity that their loved ones are with them and by their side.

I had 2 hip replacements over 2 years and I found it very hard to operate my business, but I have the best clients in the world, who always support my business. I had to restart my business a few times, and now I am not in pain, I can do longer readings.

I actually care for my clients and their wellbeing. I give them home work, you heard it, I designed a negative box so what that means is every thought that's negative, you put it in the box and don't give it a thought what so ever. I teach about manifesting eg: vision board - you set your attention, and it just reminds you to keep working on it and it eventually happens.

I really make a positive impact with my clients. I have been doing readings over 17 years now and I have 26k followers on my page.

I created my post and I take all my bookings. This is my passion, my lively hood.

I take emence pride in what I do.

I won the local business awards in 2021, when I had my shop in Tahmoor, now conducting my business from home. I am busier than ever before. I am so proud of how far I have come as a sole trader.

Everyone booked through my page Phone: 0451 456 516 https://www.facebook.com/share/182JCLfBbZ/ Scan to vote for me

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With small classes, personalised instruction, and a warm private facility, we focus on building confident swimmers and safer communities Swim Experts Unit 3/5 Merryvale Road, Minto NSW 2566 02 8747 0551 Info@swimexperts.com.au www.swimexperts.com.au

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SCAN TO VOTE

TraveL

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ISSUE 39 | March 2026

with Emma Wilson

Toki Bistro and Bar, North Sydney

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OR an alternative Friday night dining experience minus the trek into the CBD, Toki Bistro and Bar in North Sydney just might be your answer.

Right in the heart of the business precinct at 100 Miller Street, it is conveniently adjacent to the new Metro and North Sydney stations, offering a sanctuary away from the work week.

The restaurant is located inside of the Northpoint Tower, revitalised in 2018, where a dynamic retail and office space during the day transforms into an elegant dining quarter once the laptops and office doors are closed for the day.

Think soft lights, flowing curtains with talented and welcoming staff, mostly European, adding authenticity to the experience.

The cocktail program rivals Sydney’s best. I enjoyed the Quiet Flame, a delicious balanced blend of Mezcal, Bourbon, and beetroot syrup. Served theatrically under soft curls of smoke, work week dramas seem far away. /The menu is a clever example of French-Japanese fusion, marrying traditional European culinary technique with delicate flavours and impressive presentation. Our star starters were an aesthetic masterpiece: Stracciatella with onion jam and nectarines coupled with the

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Snow Crab toast that almost looked too good to eat!

The Murray Cod, paired with bright orange and fennel, was exceptionally tender, while the Lamb Rump with smoked macadamias offered

a rich, textured depth that delights your palate. Guillaume, our charismatic French waiter, politely guided us to better wine choices that didn’t disappoint.

Put Toki on your list of special

places to experience for top Sydney dining in North Sydney.

Toki Bistro & Bar, 100 Miller Street, North Sydney, +61 461 443 256 booking@toki. sydney

An intimate dining experience

ITH a laid-back coastal vibe enjoying views across the harbour at Rose Bay in Sydney, Rasa House is one of the coolest places to kick back and enjoy a specially curated cocktail while you leisurely choose any of their Asian inspired delights from the menu.

Rasa House has developed a strong and loyal following from ‘its locals’ as well as the more intrepid traveller with a culinary sense of adventure who pack this restaurant out 7 days a week.

Vinnay Matta, the charismatic owner of Rasa House, effortlessly engages with all his guests to ensure that their dining experience exceeds their expectations. He is adept at suggesting the right dishes for you to experience the depth and breadth of his east and southeast Asia culinary traditions.

With a range of exotic foods presented to perfection, Vinnay ensures that all tastes are catered for. The absolute stand out for me was his hibachi grilled satay chicken skewers!!

Delicious memories of the Lau Pa Sat hawker markets in Singapore immediately flooded through my head as soon as I bit into Vinnay’s version of this delicacy.

The friendly, professional service and attention to detail by the Rasa House team changed my thoughts from having “just a night out for dinner” to being fully immersed in an exotic food journey where I savoured the dietary delights from cultures embedded across Asia. Alyssa, our attentive team mem-

ber with her Nebraskan accent who has since made Australia home, made sure that we paired the right wine, chosen from their extensive international wine list, with our food choices. The result was a delight to our senses.

As a restaurant that can host an intimate dinner for two through to a full family gathering, all while overlooking Sydney Harbour, it has endeared itself to me as one that I will return to so I can continue my exotic food journey with Vinnay and his team.

Bookings: https://www.rasahouse.com.au/#bookings

Telling stories, celebrating success, inspiring all WISB is about progress. The stories that stem from the rich ecosystem of women growing in and succeeding in businesses across all sectors and all levels.

WWW.WOMNENINSMALLBUSINESS.AU WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/WOMENINSMALLBUSINESS

GOLDEN BROWS ACADEMY EXCELLING

SUCCESS FROM THE DAYS OF COVID

DELICIOUS CHOCOLATE TASTE OF AUSTRALIA

TraveL

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

23

with Emma Wilson

Wine Pairing, Greek Dining in The Rocks

F

OR one night only, The Rocks’ newest Greek taverna Jimmy’s Kitchen is hosting a special wine-pairing dinner bringing together traditional Greek dining and boutique Australian winemaking.

In collaboration with Small Forest Wines, the Upper Hunter label by acclaimed Japanese-born winemaker Atsuko Radcliffe, the $185pp ticketed experience will feature a four-course Greek menu paired with her small-batch wines, now newly listed at the venue.

Guests will enjoy pairings throughout the night including village-style spanakopita paired with Small Forest Verdelho 2022, Chargrilled Striploin Steak paired with Shiraz 2019 and smokey hot pita bread & fries w/ oregano & feta, alongside live Greek dancing, entertainment, and the warm, old-school hospitality Jimmy’s Kitchen has quickly become known for.

Founded in 2013, Small Forest Wines is the culmination of Radcliffe’s nearly four decades of experience across Australia, France and Japan, including her role as an International Wine Challenge judge in London -

an honour she has held annually since 2012.

Today, she produces small-batch wines that express the character of the Upper Hunter and are known for being vibrant, food-friendly, and easy to drink.

EVENT DETAILS: Date & time: Wednesday 11 March 2026, 6.30pm Price: $185 per person Address: Bay 9, 7-27 Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000

The world Is our oyster, women embracing adventure at any age TRAVEL EDITOR EMMA WILSON

F

OR a very long time indeed -women were expected to fade into the background once the days of ironing school uniforms and cleaning out lunch boxes were done.That era is over.

Today, women are not retreating instead, they’re stepping into new adventures. And no one shows this better

than Di Westaway OAM, founder of Coastrek and Wild Women on Top. Wild Women on Top was founded in 2004 by Di to connect and support women in the outdoors. Di launched Coastrek in 2009 as a team trekking challenge designed to inspire women to get outdoors, move their bodies and support each other while raising funds for charity.

What began as a simple idea of women walking spectacular coastal trails together has grown into a powerful movement that has raised tens of millions of dollars for organisations such as the Fred Hollows Foundation, funding vital programs to restore sight and improve health outcomes around the world.

A new grandmother now, Di admits that the older she gets, the more she finds fresh joy on the bike, ocean swimming or rock climbing on rock faces in Greece. As she ages, she’s not slowing down, she’s discovering honing her technique, getting better, and fully embracing the belief that the world truly opens up as we grow.

Di is a great example to mothers everywhere, cleaning squished bananas out of the bottom of school bags wondering if our best years are behind us. Equally, Di’s story isn’t just about her, it’s about what’s possible for all of

us. We need women like Di. Women who show us that there’s no age limit on adventure. Whether it’s walking, cycling, climbing or ocean swimming. Di’s journey reminds us all that the best discoveries are still ahead.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, pick up those trekking shoes, grab that bike, and remember that adventure doesn’t have an age limit. https://www.wildwomenontop.com/

24

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

BURNOUT OR BANK BALANCE?

Cost of pushing too hard KYLIE KING

Kylie King.

I

’M sure you can agree that burnout doesn’t happen overnight.

It creeps in slowly.

It starts with saying yes to one more client because you need the money. Or taking on one more project because you don’t want to miss the opportunity.

Or working one more night because that’s just what you do and even though you don’t have time, you’ll figure it out and keep going.

Until one day you realise, you’re exhausted… but you don’t stop or in some cases you don’t think you can stop.

Because the inbox is still full.

The clients still need you.

And the bills don’t pause just because you’re tired.

So you push through.

And I see this all the time in the ALIBI community. Strong, capable, incredible women who are carrying so much. Their business. Their family. Their clients. Their responsibilities. And somewhere in the middle of holding everything together, they stop checking in with themselves.

We tell ourselves it’s just a busy season. That it will calm down soon. That once we hit that next income goal, or finish that next project, we’ll finally rest.

But the finish line keeps moving.

What used to feel exciting starts to feel heavy. The thing you once loved starts to feel like pressure. You’re still showing up, still doing the work, but the spark

You can always make more money.

You can always rebuild momentum.

But when your health, your energy, and your wellbeing are gone, everything becomes harder.

I’ve seen women step back, take a breath, and come back stronger. Not because they pushed harder, but because they finally allowed themselves to stop.

Rest isn’t quitting. Rest is what allows you to keep going.

Because success isn’t just about building a profitable business. It’s about building a life that actually feels good to live.

Your business should support you - not consume you.

isn’t the same.

That there. That’s burnout.

And the scary part is, it often doesn’t look dramatic from the outside. Your business might still look successful. People might still be praising you. But inside, you’re tired in a way that sleep doesn’t fix.

Here’s the truth we don’t talk about enough: no bank balance is worth losing yourself over. And I know you know what I’m going to say but here is your sign to pay attention and remember:

So if you’re tired, listen to that. If your body is asking for a break, don’t ignore it. Taking a day off won’t make everything fall apart. In fact, it might be the very thing that holds everything together.

At the end of the day, your business needs you well.

Not just functioning. Not just surviving. But well.

Because the most valuable thing in your business was never the bank balance.

It was always you. And without you, there is no business.

Kylie King is a hypnotherapist, business and mindset mentor, and the founder of the ALIBI Awards, a national business awards program that celebrates women doing business their way. She believes every chapter of your journey deserves to be honoured. especially the ones that required the most courage.

Visit: www.alibiawards.com.au

Money Mavern

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

25

with Sheila Cabacungan

TOUGH LOVE CONVERSATIONS EVERY

Western Sydney Family Needs From spending with intention to money dates to early‑inheritance truth bombs — here’s the tough love Western Sydney families can’t afford to ignore.

SHEILA CABACUNGAN Over the past three episodes of Money Maven, one message has come through louder than anything else: the conversations we avoid in our households are often the ones costing us the most.

This month has been all about Tough Love Conversations — the honest, practical, sometimes uncomfortable money chats that every Western Sydney family needs to start having.

Spending With Intention (Not Influence) We began the series by stripping back the truth about how we’re spending — not just on big events like Valentine’s Day, but on the small habits that quietly drain our bank accounts.

This year, fewer Aussies bought Valentine’s gifts, but those who did spent with more intention. That shift is powerful.

The tough love here is simple: stop being loyal to bad deals. If your bank, telco, insurer or supermarket isn’t rewarding you, it’s time to switch.

Western Sydney households are

doing the heavy lifting in a cost‑of‑living crisis, and staying with brands that no longer offer value isn’t noble — it’s expensive.

For women, research shows carry more of the daily financial load, intentional spending is a game‑changer. When women align their spending with values rather than pressure or comparison, financial confidence grows, and stress eases.

Tough Love With Your Partner Next, we turned inward — into our relationships, where money is often the quiet tension simmering beneath the surface.

Healthy couples aren’t lucky; they’re intentional. They schedule money dates, communicate openly and share the mental and emotional load of run-

ning a household.

We talked openly about prenups and Binding Financial Agreements — not as predictions of failure, but as tools for fairness, clarity and respect.

Being “looked after” financially is not the same as being financially safe.

And for women in Western Sydney, who often experience career breaks, part‑time work and carer responsibilities transparency is essential protection.

Whether you combine accounts, keep them separate or run a hybrid system, the power comes from communication — not the structure itself.

Money Truths Across Generations Finally, we tackled the toughest conversation of all: early inheritance and what support between parents and adult children could actually look like.

It’s no secret that younger people are struggling with rent, mortgages and the rising cost of life. Parents want to help, but many are terrified of outliving their money — and with good reason.

Longer lifespans, healthcare costs and market uncertainty mean retirees need more financial security than ever before.

Tough love means this: Parents are not a bank.

Adult children aren’t falling short for needing support — but the help must be safe, sustainable and fair for everyone.

Families need clarity, not guilt.

Structure, not secrecy. Conversations, not assumptions. And women — who live longer and retire with less — need to be protected in this process, not pressured.

The Real Takeaway Tough love isn’t harsh. It’s honest, grounded and deeply caring.

The conversations you avoid today become the crises you face tomorrow.

And the families who thrive financially are the ones who talk early, talk often and talk openly.

So What Now? To dive deeper into these topics and learn how to start these conversations at home, listen to the full Tough Love Con‑ versations series on Money Maven.

The QR Code will take you straight to the Podcast page so make the time to listen.

Follow Money Maven with Sheila on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay connected and get practical tools made for the tradies, professionals and small‑business owners of Western Sydney.

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26

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

REVIEW: ADDITION REVIEW

There’s a little bit of heart in the formula for this Aussie-set rom-com JACOB RICHARDSON

G

RACE (Teresa Palmer) counts numbers incessantly, in an effort to hold her world together. But a chance encounter with Seamus (Joe Dempsie) leads her to take a chance on love; throwing her world upside down in the process.

Addition struggles to shake off, perhaps, the shackles of the nation in which it comes from.

There are little fingerprints that tell you it’s an Aussie film; an overly complicated plot with a raft of extraneous side characters, plenty of ‘inclusion’, and perhaps a touch too much in making it look amazing.

It’s when the makeup of Addition casts off these extra little elements and focuses on what it should be - a good rom-com - that it works best. here’s a lot of nuance and difficulty in this story, but the central conceit, of a woman with a mental illness that impedes, and ultimately implodes, her romantic life, is a strong one, and handled well. At least, up until that implosion. Teresa Palmer does an OK job in the lead, but Joe Dempsie as her erstwhile lover is far and away the standout.

And they have a good chemistry, aided by some wonderfully strong dialogue from Becca Johnstone and Toni Jordan’s script.

The problem with Addition - outside of the trap-

pings already identified - fundamentally comes down to the structure. Whereas one might imagine a typical structure where the romantic leads break up after some complication caused by Grace’s illness, but are brought back together again, this film tries to eschew that - to some extent - in favour of a more complex, interweaved storyline that never quite takes off.

While there is a complication, it feels incredibly rushed because of all of the disparate elements the filmmakers are trying to cram in here (including a Tesla apparition, a tragic backstory, and a niece discovering her sexuality).

When we should be rooting for Grace and Seamus

to put aside their differences and get back together, instead we’re treated to a rapid ‘fixing’ of Grace’s illness by a therapist in a deus ex machina way, a shoehorned in plot with Grace’s niece confiding her secrets in her, and a hurried makeup between the actual characters we care about. It’s too many numbers to add up to a satisfying film.

Which is a shame, because the back and forth banter, the meet cute, the challenges of their relationship and the genuine chemistry between the two actors in the lead relationship is really strong.

Some of these lines are laugh out loud funny, even for the jaded critic.

But spreading it so thin, because the screentime is being used for this ‘complex’ backstory, does a disservice to what we’re actually interested in here - how do two people find a way to make their love work in the face of such adversity?

There are great ideas captured here, and the film stands strong as a slightly more complex rom-com in a country that produces very few of those, but it is made all the more bittersweet to see it stumble in the third act, when the relationship it had started to build felt so strong; until it got distracted by other plot threads.

Addition never quite adds up to the sum of its parts. With a strong central romance and a standout performance from Joe Dempsie, the film nevertheless ties itself in knots to provide complexity and nuance it doesn’t need. 3 STARS.

E C I R P HALF

*

TUESDAYS

NOW AT EVENT CINEMAS Half price* tickets are exclusive to Cinebuzz members Not a member? It’s free and easy to join online at eventcinemas.com.au

*Valid for Cinebuzz members full priced Adult tickets.Online booking fees apply. T&Cs apply.

27

ISSUE 39 | March 2026

CONCERNING MYOPIA RATES AMONG CHILDREN

Experts urge more outdoor play

A

S we move into the 2026 school year, optometrists are encouraging parents to make outdoor play a priority for their children this school year with new data from Bupa Optical revealing that 27 per cent of Australian children who underwent an eye test last year were diagnosed with myopia.

Spending time outdoors has been proven to be beneficial for reducing myopia risk amongst children however outdoor play is on the decline with separate research noting that 50 per cent of kids reported not being allowed to play outside alone or with friends at various times. Additionally, a quarter of Aussie kids say they need improvement in the opportunities to play outside and hang out with friends.

Bupa Optical Optometrist Karen Makin said childhood myopia rates have been on the rise, especially in the years following the COVID pandemic, with fundamental changes to children’s lifestyles lingering well beyond lockdowns.

“We continue to see more and more parents coming in to report that their children have been having trouble in the classroom as a result of vision problems.

“While factors such as genetics play

a significant role in the development of myopia, the common thread amongst many of these new cases is more time in front of screens and less time spent playing outdoors in natural light, which improves contrast sensitivity, reduces eye fatigue, and stimulates dopamine release in the retina, which helps regulate eye growth,” Karen said.

A 2025 study from Macquarie University found secondary school students averaged around 9 hours daily on

Parentopia  Australia’s number one marketplace for products, services and resources for children, parents and families.

www.parentopia.au

screens, while primary students spent appriximatly 6 hours. This is despite Government recommendations that for young people aged 5–17 years, it is recommended they have no more than two hours of sedentary recreational screen time per day.

“While there is a growing trend towards more schoolwork being undertaken online or via devices, we are concerned that recreational time has followed suit, with time spent gaming,

on social media or watching entertainment on smart devices at the expense of time spent playing outside.

“While physical conditions are often easier for parents to spot, vision problems can be much harder to detect.

That’s why we recommend yearly eyetests for children ahead of the school year to ensure any issues are detected and addressed early,” Karen said.

Along with special purpose glasses and contact lenses to help control myopia progression, other ways Bupa Optometrists can treat myopia include through Orthokeratology. This is a form of vision correction where hard contact lenses are worn overnight while sleeping and are fitted such that they change the shape of the cornea, resulting in clear vision when the lenses are removed in the morning, as well as keeping the progression of myopia in check.

“But we would much prefer a child didn’t get to the stage of needing vision correction and myopia management, so send your children out into the backyard to play,” added Karen.

With cost-of-living pressures affecting many families, parents can rest assured that eye tests are bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders at Bupa Optical.

Discover new ideas, products and child friendly options across Australia.