Macarthur Advocate - May 2023

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New centres to service local mental health needs

TWO new Headspace centres will be established at Narellan and Edmondson Park next year to service the mental health needs of young people in the region. Headspace is a free to low-cost health service for young people aged 12 to 25. The centres provide support for young people with mild to moderate mental illness, including those associated with physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drugs and vocational and educational needs. Clients have access to a youth-friendly environment with experienced staff, including psychologists, counsellors, youth workers and doctors. More: page 3

Online retail grows

Boost in nursing graduates

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NEW HEADSPACE CENTRES FOR NARELLAN, EDMONDSON PARK

Mental health care boost

TWO new Headspace centres will be established at Narellan and Edmondson Park next year to service the mental health needs of young people in the region.

Headspace is a free to low-cost health service for young people aged 12 to 25.

The centres provide support for young people with mild to moderate mental illness, including those associated with physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drugs and vocational and educational needs.

Clients have access to a youth-friendly environment with experienced staff, including psychologists, counsellors, youth workers and doctors.

South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, known as SWSPHN, is funding Grand Pacific Health to establish the cen-

tres at Narellan and Edmondson Park.

Grand Pacific Health is a recognised health service provider which is currently the lead agency for seven Headspace centres across NSW, including a centre at Liverpool.

SWSPHN Acting Chief Executive Officer Kristen

Short said the centres offered unique services to young people which reflected the needs of their local community.

“Grand Pacific Health, with its experience in providing services tailored to the needs of diverse communities across the state, is well placed to establish and deliver our region’s two new centres,” she said.

“Headspace is a vital service, a ‘onestop-shop’ for young people and their families, designed not just for young people but with them.

“The Department of Health and Aged Care has heard the community’s

concerns and has addressed the gap in youth mental health supports in the South Western Sydney growth corridor with the provision of two new Headspace centres,” she said.

“SWSPHN is pleased to be able to facilitate and fund services like Headspace which improve access to mental health services in our region.”

To access the service, young people can drop into their local centre or phone the centre to make an appointment, without a doctor’s referral.

The Narellan and Edmondson Park headspace centres will complement other SWSPHN-funded youth specific mental health services including Headspace Campbelltown, Liverpool and Bankstown, as well as ReFrame in the Wollondilly and Wingecarribee Shires.

Minister halts premium increase

THE NSW Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis, has stepped in to save small businesses from being hit with an average 20 per cent insurance premium increase.

Minister Cotsis wrote to icare, the state’s workplace injury insurer,

directing it to limit average premium increase to 8 per cent in each of the next three financial years.

Minister Cotsis acknowledged this would still be tough on small businesses, but noted the an average increase was limited to 8 per cent in future years there was a lot more work ahead

Town Centre Living

Live at the Park

Oran Park has a new land release positioned less than 500m from the Town Centre!

O ran Park is constantly evolving, so now is the time to take advantage of everything this great community has to offer. Here’s what you can look forward to while living at the Park:

• A variety of schools and future tertiary institutions

• Multiple pre-school and day-care centres

• Pedestrian-friendly streets, creating easy access to amenities

• 160km of paths and cycleways for you to explore parklands, playgrounds and sporting fields

oranpark.com.au

to put downward pressure on any average increase.

The Minister warned against false hope, saying it would still take years to fix a decade of dysfunction in the state’s injured workers compensation system.

Incoming briefs received by the new government warn that the nominal

insurer is so seriously run down it will not regain financial sustainability without significant premium increases.

The briefings make clear that the primary reason for this is the previous government’s refusal to put in place adequate rate increases between 2014 and 2021.

• An award-winning skate park and splash park which includes flying foxes, table tennis tables, basketball courts, a ninja warrior course and a parkour course

• Oran Park Library

• Meeting friends and family at Oran Park’s major shopping centre, The Podium

• New dining experiences at the Oran Park Hotel, Atura Hotel and food precincts within The Podium

• State-of-the-art Leisure Centre which houses a 50m indoor Olympic pool, gym, four basketball courts, sauna and more

• Jobs close to home within the Town Centre and nearby Western Sydney International Airport

• World class fiber optic networks with high-speed internet

• An integrated health hub for your wellbeing needs

• Good public transport with a current rotation of buses and a future train station

• A fresh new start in a masterplanned community

Don’t miss out on the opportunity of securing a lot close to the Town Centre.

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ISSUE 5 | May

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Big increase in nursing graduates

ASIGNIFICANT increase in nursing and midwifery graduates is set to strengthen the public health system in western Sydney.

This year, 520 graduates will begin their careers in the Western Sydney Local Health District, marking a 137 increase from last year.

The graduates will be stationed at various hospitals, including Auburn, Blacktown, Mount Druitt, and Westmead, as well as other healthcare services.

The group consists of 500 graduate nurses and 20 graduate midwives.

NSW Premier Chris Minns and Health Minister Ryan Park celebrated International Nurses Day by

visiting Westmead Hospital to meet some of the new graduates.

This intake of 520 is part of a record-breaking number of over 3,600 graduate nurses and midwives across 130 public hospitals and health services in NSW this year.

The government aims to recruit more nurses and midwives to reduce wait times in emergency departments and for elective surgeries.

The graduates will receive support and gain valuable experience in a range of clinical settings.

The initiative is welcomed as a step towards improving patient care and supporting healthcare professionals in their lifelong careers.

Goodbye to VIP Lounges

THE State Government’s assault on problem gamblers begins in earnest this September with all gambling-related signage to be abolished.

The Government is taking the action to deliver on a key election commitment to reduce problem gambling, by moving to ban external signage such as ‘VIP Lounge’ from pubs and clubs across the state by September 1.

It was announced by the Minister for Racing and Gaming David Harris.

The Government’s action on VIP

signage comes after introducing legislation in the first sitting week of the new Parliament to ban clubs with pokies from donating to NSW political parties.

Pubs and clubs will be formally notified from next week that all external gambling-related signs, including fixed unilluminated awning signs to digital video displays, will need to be removed, altered, or concealed.

Liquor & Gaming NSW (L&GNSW) has developed a position paper which outlines its enforcement approach and

transition period. As part of this, venue operators have three months to remove all gaming related signage.

Where venues can demonstrate delays in removing their signage that are outside of their control, they will be afforded a further three months to comply. Following this period, a zero-tolerance approach will be adopted.

Names such as ‘VIP Room/VIP Lounge, Golden Room/Lounge, Players’ Room/Lounge Prosperity Room/ Lounge’ will be among names banned as well as images of dragons, coins or

lightning motifs.

The expectations for removal of signs will be applied in a staged manner, to afford venues the time to remove, switch off, conceal or otherwise change both static and electronic signage.

The Government will work with industry associations and venues across NSW during the transition period. The maximum penalty attributable for those who fail to remove their signs and breach the Act is 100 penalty units, or $11,000, per offence.

Get your blood pressure checked

CARDIOVASCULAR disease (CVD) is a major health issue in Australia, leading to the hospitalization of over 600,000 people annually.

World Hypertension Day, which was on May 17, aimed to increase awareness of the significance of knowing and maintaining a healthy blood pressure level.

About 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 worldwide suffer from high blood pressure, with 46% of adults unaware of their condition and only one in five having their blood pressure under control.

Blooms The Chemist, a leading community pharmacy network, supports their local communities by promoting

blood pressure monitoring and encouraging individuals to visit their pharmacy for a blood pressure test.

This initiative aims to combat low awareness rates, particularly in low to middle-income areas.

Blooms The Chemist provides free blood pressure evaluation tests as a core health service across their pharmacy network, aiming to prevent future health issues through early detection and intervention.

Greyhounds off to America

IN a historic partnership, retired Australian greyhounds will be sent to the United States to serve as companion animals for law enforcement officers.

The Pacific Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Greyhounds Australasia, Greyhound Racing NSW, and the US Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).

The FOP, with over 367,000 members across 3,000 lodges nationwide, aims to provide greyhounds as PTSD dogs and pets for its officers.

The initiative is inspired by successful programs in Australia with the Australian Federal Police Association and Police Association of NSW.

The partnership is seen as a merging of human and animal welfare, providing comfort to officers exposed to traumatic incidents. The initiative has attracted widespread support in the Australian greyhound industry.

Doctors back vaping crackdown

THE Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed support for the Albanese Government’s crackdown on vaping.

The Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, has announced measures to curb the e-cigarette black market, including restrictions on flavors and colors, pharmaceutical packaging, limits on nicotine concentrations and volumes, and a ban on single-use disposable products.

The RACGP President, Dr. Nicole Higgins, welcomed these actions and emphasized the need to protect young people from nicotine vaping.

She praised the $63M advertising campaign aimed at discouraging vaping

and smoking and highlighted the importance of limiting the appeal of vaping products, which often target children.

Dr Higgins also emphasized the RACGP’s willingness to collaborate with the government and promote vaping as a smoking cessation strategy under medical supervision.

She encouraged individuals to seek help from their GPs for various quitting options.

$7M for disadvantaged students

THE NSW Government has allocated over $7M to support disadvantaged students in vocational training.

The funding will remove the cap on needs-based loadings for Smart and Skilled approved training providers, benefiting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, students with disabilities, and the long-term unemployed.

Previously, providers could only receive one loading per enrolment, but the removal of the cap acknowledges that students may have multiple needs, allowing for additional loadings.

The decision is based on a report titled “Disadvantage, Disability, and Vocational Education and Training” commissioned by the NSW Department of Education, which found that disadvantaged students have a 15% lower completion rate.

TAFE NSW, known for training a higher proportion of disadvantaged students, will receive the majority of the additional funding.

The Department of Education will also establish a community of practice to share best practices and learnings among training providers.

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Servicing South Western Sydney

IN February 2023, funeral directors and staff of Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria attended the launch of the newest crematoria in metropolitan Sydney.

He state-of-the-art facilities at Kemps Creek Memorial Park, will help the not-for-profit organisation achieve its mission of caring for all in the community by providing affordable and high-quality death-care services.

Built by leading construction services company Paynter Dixon, the modern office and crematoria will provide Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria a contemporary and welcoming environment to meet with families to discuss their arrangements.

The facilities offer a private viewing room for those families who wish to reflect upon the life of their loved ones on site.

James Boyd, Executive Chairman of Paynter Dixon said “Paynter Dixon is privileged to partner with Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria in the delivery of world-class memorials and community destinations in Liverpool and Kemps Creek.

These visionary facilities and places are positioned to meet Sydney’s growing, multi-cultural community for generations to come. Looking ahead, the strength of

our continued partnership is founded on a shared commitment to quality and innovation.”

The attendees viewed a presentation by Armen Mikaelian, Head of New Business which showcased the new facilities at Kemps Creek, as well as a new chapel, café and condolence lounge at Liverpool

Cemetery. Mr Mikaelian believes these amenities will provide “an affordable cremation offering to all our customers and communities in greater western Sydney”, as well as alternatives for funerals and memorial services.

With 70 per cent of Australians choosing cremation over traditional burial, Syd-

ney Crematorium will offer the latest technology to service community members in favour of more environmental and economical options. As the end-to-end cremation process is solely managed by Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria, the organisation can effectively monitor each step of the operation unlike other commercial entities.

Greg Tucker, Regional Manager Cemetery Services said: “The launch of the Sydney Crematorium marks a significant and exciting expansion of the services delivered by Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria in one of the largest growth corridors in Sydney.”

The crematorium has been designed to deliver caring and respectful cremation services to every community. It also represents a significant investment in essential infrastructure by Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria for the people of western Sydney and greater Sydney alike. “

Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria recognised the critical shortage of burial space several years ago and is the only operator in Sydney that has secured new burial land with two DA approved cemeteries.

They include the 113ha Macarthur Memorial Park in the Campbelltown area and the 44ha Nepean Gardens in the Penrith area.

WESTS POWERING UP MACARTHUR LEAGUE Huge win for rugby league

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

THE future of Rugby League in the Macarthur region is in great hands with a boundless future judging by a recent event hosted by the Wests Group Macarthur in Campbelltown.

Wests made a $330,000 commitment to Macarthur Rugby League for 2023 and none other than NSW State of Origin coach Brad Fittler represented the NRL at the presentation.

It meant Wests Group Macarthur will continue to power the grassroots Rugby League conference across the Macarthur region with the execution of the $330,000 partnership agreement of the combined Wests Tigers Macarthur Junior Rugby League and Group 6 Rugby League conference for the upcoming 2023 season.

In its second year, the $330,000 commitment via the ClubGRANTS scheme will once again support 23 Clubs covering Liverpool, Campbelltown, Camden, Wollondilly and Wingecarribee LGA’S.

The conference comprised of more than 500 teams and 7000 players, continues to represent the largest financial commitment to any sporting code made by Wests Group Macarthur.

The funding prioritises cost relief to families with Insurance subsidies available for every participant, rebates offered on socks and shorts and the covering of referee fees to help alleviate registration and game day costs on families that are playing in Junior Rugby League. Funding also extends to projects that help promote positive Rugby League pathways.

This includes player development and volunteer training programs, marketing and promotion initiatives, special events

including gala days and finals series and sponsorship of the Andrew johns under 16’s and Laurie Daley Cup rep teams.

Not only does the partnership represent equivalent savings per family of $30 per participant, Wests also acts a backbone of the league through in-kind activity supporting meetings, events and the inclusion of Macarthur Rugby League within the Wests Sports Council.

Many positives

The Macarthur region is now the second largest grassroots Rugby League network in NSW -second only to Penrith-, with the vision of providing future growth opportunities and pathways to unearth the next Rugby League superstars.

Chairman of the Wests Tigers JRL Board Daniel Draper said: “The renewal of the Wests Group Macarthur funding is a huge

win for Rugby League in the region. Last season had many positives and 2023 is certainly looking bigger and better once again thanks to Wests Group Macarthur.”

Chairman of Group 6 Junior Rugby League, Mark Dooner said: “The support Wests Group Macarthur is giving Rugby League is evident in the continued rise of playing numbers across the region leading into the 2023 season. The partnership with Wests Group Macarthur plays a huge role in providing support for all competitions from our youngest players all the way through to our successful conference competitions.”

NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said he was grateful for the continued support from Wests Group Macarthur for one of the fastest-growing areas of Rugby League.

Chairman of Wests Group Macarthur Alan Buxton said: “Rugby League has been the beating heart of Wests Group Macar-

thur since inception in 1974. Being able to support the past, present, and future of the game within Macarthur is a privilege we take seriously and we are pleased to see the local conference continue to grow in 2023.”

At the heart of Western Suburbs League Club, the flagship venue in Wests Group portfolio, is a historic connection with Rugby League and the Group 6 Rugby League competition – with the club originally built to support Campbelltown’s oldest Rugby League team, the Campbelltown City Kangaroos with origins back to 1908.

And the region has a great track record of producing Rugby League talent including David Nofoaluma (Campbelltown Warriors), True Blues Ryan Hoffman (Campbelltown Collegians), Anthony Minichiello (East Valley United) from Macarthur as well as James Tedesco (Camden Rams) from Group 6.

Grew into property management

THREE Kings and a Queen started as Airbnb property management in 2018 by accident one of their Airbnb guests asked them to manage their property.

“We then grew into property management, then selling property projects all across Sydney and QLD and selling existing homes,” a Team Member said.

“We always strive for outstanding customer service and delighting our clients. We always strive to response quickly to our clients. Our products cater to all walks of lives and all kind of budgets in all the different locations.

“We have been able to help many clients in securing their property whether it’s for rent or for sale. We always strive to have the solutions to their problems to the best of our ability.

“We love to see that our clients were all

happy with our products and our service and we’re able to think outside the box to give strategies to our clients to meet their needs. Our happy clients invite us to their family events or to other events. Clients always calls us for advice before they make a move on what to do, property wise.

“We do shout outs to local businesses on Sundays on our social page and we’re also involved in our local church’s communities helping out

Off to a sizzling start

TWO Good Eggs -Macarthur is located at Camden Fruit Barn and has been

an instant success since it was launched in 2022.

The ‘two good eggs’ are owners Rachael and Steve and they won the Outstanding Café Award in the Camden Local Business Awards last year.

They have an awesome little team backing them up including Chloe, Adam, Cooper and Lawrence. And there are exciting things to come in 2023 according to Rachael and Steve who said: “watch this space”.

with what the church need helps with. The principal is part of the Parish Pastoral Leadership Council where they meet and plan to work on the parish’s long-term vision on a regular basis.

“The principal also trained the kids from year three to serve at the church, helped the church when she’s needed, serve at mass and participate in the young adults group.”

Website: www.threekingsandaqueen.com.au

It is described as a self-sufficient pop-up cafe that brews, grills, shakes and bakes. The cosy little cafe has outside and undercover seating, an enclosed children’s playground and animal feeding.

Opening Hours are Monday - Friday: 5:30am - 2:15pm and Saturday and& Sunday: 6:30am - 2:15pm

The Café is located at Camden Fruit Barn, 8 Macarthur Road, Elderslie.

Phone: 04077 55 829 | 0421 01 9272.

Email: hello@twogoodeggsmacarthur.net

Website: www.twogoodeggsmacarthur.com

Scan the QR Code to vote for Simply Divine Beauty in the Camden Local Business Awards

Simply Divine Beauty Shop 1, 42 Argyle st, Camden 0428470100

„

ONLINE RETAIL CONTINUES TO GROW Most have protection plans

DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

IF the pandemic taught business owners managers anything, it is to be prepared for anything.

Many learnt the lesson the hard way, but as they face a potential financial slump later this year 90% are prepared this time around.

New research reveals that two out of three Australian online retailers increased their revenue in 2022 despite inflation and rate rises, and nine out of 10 plan to invest more in their business to protect against current economic pressures.

These include expanding their product ranges, improving their customer experience online, and offering more delivery options.

The findings were derived from a survey of 200 online retailers by leading parcel delivery service CouriersPlease.

Business owners and senior decision makers across different retailer sizes - micro (one-15 employees), small (16-50 employees), medium (51-200 employees) and large (more than 200 employees) - were asked whether their revenue increased in 2022 and what investment plans they had to help protect their revenue this year.

Nine in 10 online retailers have at least one business investment plan this year, to help protect their business from lower consumer spending. A breakdown of their responses are as follows:

42% will expand their product range.

38% will improve their E-Commerce stores.

34% will invest in marketing.

31% will expand into new markets.

31% will implement new technology such as customer service chatbots, automated fulfilment in their warehouses to improve their customer service.

18% will introduce more delivery options.

15% will create a better returns or exchange processes.

Richard Thame, CEO at CouriersPlease said the results were encouraging and indicated online retailers’ commitment to their business growth.

“Online retailers are still enjoying the positive effects of the E-Commerce boom, and total revenue for the Australian market is forecasted to continue growing steadily year-on-year, with the market projected to reach US$35B by 2025,” he said.

“But the survey shows that retailers are not naïve to economic fluctuations and are acting now to prepare for potential future challenges.”

Micro businesses are most likely to neglect the need to invest in their business to generate sales in a tough economic period, with one fifth of this group admitting they will do nothing to hedge against an economic slowdown.

This was followed by only 10% of medium-sized businesses and four per cent of small businesses. Zero per cent of large businesses are willing to resign to fate in the event of economic turndown.

The proactive planning and resilience of these online retailers is exemplified by their positive results for 2022. Two-thirds (64%) of online retailers reported increased revenue in the last calendar year, despite inflation and increasing interest rates throughout 2022.

Just over a quarter 28% of respondents said their 2022 revenue remained the same as in 2021, and only eight per cent of online retailers reported lower revenue in the last calendar year.

A closer look at the data reveals 69 % of online retailers based in NSW reported a revenue increase in 2022,

closely followed by Victoria with 66%, then Queensland with 58%.

Given online retailers in these States are already planning ways to tackle recessionary impacts for the year ahead, it is arguable that NSW, Victorian and Queenslander online retailers will report another positive revenue year for 2023.

Larger retailers were more likely to have increased their revenue in 2022 from 2021 levels, chosen by an impressive 91% of large retailers, 68% of medium-sized retailers, 62%cent of small retailers and 53% per cent of micro retailers.

Similar proportions of micro, small and medium-sized retailers achieved the same levels of revenue in 2022 as in 2021, all between 30-32 per cent. This compares with just 5 per cent of large businesses whose revenue did not change in the same period.

Healthy Ageing:Backing Brain Health in Western Sydney

Dementia is an umbrella term for around 100 different disorders that affect the brain and cause a wide range of symptoms, including impacting people’s memory, decision-making, language, and behaviour. Dementia impacts each person differently, and can also cause changes in people’s physical health, wellbeing, social skills, and everyday functions. Despite common misconceptions, dementia is not a normal part of ageing and help is available for those affected.

Dementia in Australia

Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of death in Australian women1. There are approximately 401,300 people living with dementia in Australia and this is expected to rise to over 800,000 by 20582. Currently, two-thirds of people living with dementia live in the community3 Within residential aged care facilities, over two-thirds of residents have moderate to severe dementia4

Reducing Dementia Risks

Some risk factors for dementia cannot be changed, such as age, genetics and family history of dementia. However, other dementia risk factors can be modified through healthy lifestyle choices. Focussing on having a healthy brain is important for people of all ages, but especially those who are middle-aged and older. To optimise your brain health, have regular check-ups with your GP, ensure that you are a healthy weight, be physically active, have a healthy diet, reduce alcohol consumption, and quit smoking. Participating in social activities and brain stimulation exercises are also important ways to improve your brain health.

If you would like to improve your physical activity, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network proudly funds ‘Live Life, Get Active’ (LLGA) free classes across Western Sydney. For more information, visit wentwest.com.au/LLGA

1,2,3,4 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2023), Dementia in Australia, Summary, available from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/ reports/dementia/dementia-in-aus/contents/summary

Recognising the Signs of Dementia

If you are experiencing changes in your thinking or memory, it is important to speak with your GP. Your doctor needs to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms such as fatigue, stress, depression, infection, or nutrient deficiencies. In many cases, these can be treated or managed. If your GP does identify that you have dementia, early treatment can help slow the disease’s progression. Having an early diagnosis can help you to plan your future, including developing an Advance Care Directive to provide health care staff guidance about your preferences if you are ever unable to speak for yourself. You can call Advance Care Planning Australia on 1300 208 582 or visit bit.ly/advancecareplanning-nsw

The following are signs to speak with your doctor:

9 Difficulty remembering the day and date, or recent events

9 Trouble managing your finances

9 Problems with participating in or following conversations, especially in group settings

9 Loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed

Getting Help

Western Sydney Primary Health Network commissions the Care Finder program in Western Sydney to assist older people who would not be able to arrange services without intensive support and do not have family members or friends who can help. The service connects people with a ‘care finder’ who will meet them and ask questions to understand their situation. The care finder will then support them in working through the steps to address their needs.

Information on the Care Finder providers in Western Sydney is available at wentwest.com.au/carefinder

For clients with a new or ongoing diagnosis of Dementia, we commission Dementia Australia to provide ongoing counselling, support, and service navigation to clients, families and carer. Further information on this service, and the referral pathway, is available at wentwest.com.au/agedcare

WELCOME TO THE NEW WORLD OF CRUISING

Life onboard - post COVID

„

DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

MILLIONS of Australians cruise every year but in 2023 they are finding it’s a new world on the ocean waves as the post-COVID period takes hold.

I have just witnessed firsthand this new order of COVID protocols on a short cruise aboard PO’s megaship Pacific Adventure.

And straight up, let me say I was pleasantly surprised by the discovery that it was largely business as usual on board.

The biggest hurdle was actually preparing for and undertaking the tasks necessary to pass the COVID protocol prior to the cruise. This included full proof of COVID vaccines and a negative COVID test a couple of days before boarding,

P&O uses the Verifly system to register guests as COVID free, but I found it tricky to navigate at first. So, I printed out all my documents so that I had them in hand at embarkation…just in case.

Once on board, it was obvious that P&O took it very seriously with most staff wearing medical facemasks.

Most passengers didn’t wear facemasks, but I recommend you take them just in case, especially if you need to avoid COVID at all costs.

Pacific Adventure is a modern ship which was formerly Golden Princess. And let me say, it is the

best P&O ship I have ever sailed upon.

Anyone who has experienced one of these luxurious floating resorts as part of the Princess line will understand just how stunning they are.

It has four pools – one indoors and one adults only, stunning water slides, a breathtaking nightclub high above the rear deck and multiple dining options.

These include Luke’s Bar & Grill by Luke Mangan, The Dragon Lady Chinese restaurant, Angelo’s Italian, the Waterfront and 400 Gradi gourmet Pizza Restaurant.

The big COVID enforced change is the Pantry on Deck 14 which is first choice for passengers for breakfast and lunch.

It is now a full-service facility with the famous self-service smorgasbord style meals now dumped.

Pacific Adventure has whole decks dedicated to the new cruising ‘rage’--mini suites.

They are worth the extra fare cost being twice the size of a normal cabin including a double size deck.

Mini suite passengers even have their own breakfast venue known as the Byron Bay Beach Club. Here you get a full-service breakfast without the crowds.

Cruise Magazine has a 22-page Ultimate Guide to Pacific Adventure at: https://www.australiancruisemagazine. com.au/pacific-adventure.html

Above and right: aboard the Pacific Adventure.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3 - 4 Stars

The Guardians gang are back! Quill (Chris Pratt) is devastated by his loss of Gamora (Zoe Saldana), and the rest of the team are trying to hold it together.

When Adam Warlock (Will Poulter) throws Rocket (Bradley Cooper) into a coma, however, the team has to travel across the Galaxy to track down a piece of code to save the deadly racoon - in the process, discovering the horrors perpetrated on the animal, by the nefarious High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji).

The beauty of James Gunn’s work with Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3 (hereafter, GOTG3), is that he never shies away from the painful, tortuous and emotional.

Sure, the movie may be overstuffed. Sure, some of Rocket’s old friends will give you nightmares by virtue of their likeness to Toy Story characters that traumatized you as a kid. But ultimately, Gunn succeeds where so many directors of the past few MCU films have failed, by engaging honestly and authentically with the material.

There’s witty quips all around here, and Chris Pratt is mercifully back in the Star Lord box that he seems to have drifted from as a side character in recent adventures. But the star of the show is Rocket Racoon, and the character (and voice actor Bradley Cooper) do a fantastic job of grounding the film and tugging on the heart strings.

Visually, the film continues the trend of the GOTG films - expansive and panoramic space sequences, coupled with gorgeous set design, crazy characters,

and every colour imaginable. The music is also, as always with this franchise, on point; a hodgepodge of classic bangers.

All that said, the film is undoubtedly jam packed and does run long. It’s tough, at this stage of the MCU, to feel fresh and exciting again. At some point during this film, those familiar thoughts of ‘Oh,

I know what’s going to happen now’ pop up. The movie plays by the rules, despite its claims of breaking them, and that remains the ultimate stumbling block in this cinematic universe.

GOTG3 is a welcome return to quality entertainment from Marvel, but the fact

B - 4 Stars

it isn’t bad doesn’t mean it is close to as good, groundbreaking, or strong as the original.

A distinct lack of actual book references in this film.

The gang is back together again. This time, Vivian (Jane Fonda) is getting married, and Diane (Diane Keaton), Carol (Mary Steenburgen) and Sharon (Candice Bergen) take her to Italy for her bachelorette. There, they find stunning landscapes, oodles of prosecco, drama in a pair of dastardly porters, and romance - new, old and rekindled.

Look, this film is going to appeal to a certain type of person no matter how terrible it is. And it is objectively terrible. The plot is borderline nonexistent, t he jokes are the lowest of low hanging fruit, and the performances are borderline sleepwalking. Indeed, one of the funniest parts of this film is watching these characters suddenly break out into ‘tears’ - quotations needed, as the performance level here never allows for real tears, sounds that could really indicate tears, or indeed any change in facial expression.

The film also has a series of tremendously annoying habits. The first is that it insists on using predominantly

film quotes as dialogue for its character (contrary to the media referenced in the title), and having its characters immediately reference what film it came from.

Think nearly 2 hours of “Of all the gin joints. Casablanca.” The second gripe is that halfway through the film, Diane and Vivian just go stand on a balcony

and explain the plot of the previous half of the movie, and then literally say “I wonder what will happen next”. We get it. It’s a movie. Some things have happened. Some things have happened. Don’t pad the runtime with this.

Finally, and perhaps most frustratingly, Candice Bergen delivers a speech in prison that stops and starts more times than the ending of Return of the King.

The most important thing to remember though, is that none of this matters an ounce. The cinema we saw it in, full of people geared towards this exact sort of completely banal, inoffensive, afternoon content, absolutely loved it.

They roared with laughter at all the right moments, and to be fair probably shed a tear. If you loved the first movie, you’ll love this movie too.

THE MCU returns to its former prowess, with a fun, funny and emotionally powerful installment of our favorite wacky outer space heroes.

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

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

LOW IMPACT EXERCISE WITH MANY BENEFITS

Swim to your heart’s content

SWIMMING is a low-impact form of exercise that has numerous health benefits for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

Whether you are an experienced swimmer or just starting out, incorporating swimming into your fitness routine can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health.

In this article, we will explore some

Further specifications, including paint colours and pricing, offered for the NEW coupe-SUV

„ BY THE GO AUTO TERAM

HONDA Australia has this week confirmed pricing for its forthcoming ZR-V coupe-SUV, a model it says will slot between the HR-V (from $36,700 d/a) and next-generation CR-V (pricing TBA) in its SUV portfolio.

Priced from $40,200 drive-away, the ZR-V will be offered in four trim grades and with petrol and petrol-electric (hybrid) drivelines. The flagship e:HEV LX (hybrid) tops the range at $54,900 drive-away.

Honda says the range features various safety, interior and exterior specification details, but is holding information close to its chest until the model’s official launch on May 19.

Colour choices for the model include Crystal Black, Platinum Grey, Platinum Crystal Blue, Platinum White and Premium Crystal Garnet.

“The new Honda ZR-V offers optimal balance of fuel efficiency and dynamic performance, from day to day commuting in city and suburban environments, to weekend adventures on highways and winding coastal and country roads,” said Honda Australia in a statement.

“The petrol variants (VTi LX, VTi L & VTi X) feature the 1.5-litre VTEC turbocharged engine and the e:HEV LX sports a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-litre direct injection engine. Both systems deliver an impressive driving experience.”

Honda has previously confirmed the ZR-V will offer features that include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity via a 9.0-inch colour touchscreen, front and rear parking sensors and reversing camera, and LED headlights. However, it is not known if these features are standard across the board, or grade dependent.

Viewing overseas model specifications, it is understood the ZR-V will receive as standard safety equipment including AEB, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, though again it is not known how these features will be distributed across the Australian ZR-V line-up.

The Honda ZR-V will rival models including the Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX30 and Skoda Karoq, but offer its own, unique coupe-like proportions.

The ZR-V features a vertical grille which blends seamlessly with the bumper surround and is flanked by narrow, wide-set headlights like those found on the latest Civic and HR-V. Honda says the front of its latest SUV is meant to convey “highly sophisticated expression, yet with stature and a strong presence”.

With a widened stance, the rear of the body aims to add volume to the ZR-V’s proportions, the rear haunches and tailgate culminating in a smooth, upswept look that is neither as edgy as the HR-V, yet as stylised as many competitors’ coupe-SUV offerings.

Inside, the link between other new-generation Honda models is evident. The cabin of the ZR-V is spacious and open with an instrument panel that stretches out horizontally across the dashboard, and a well-presented array of functional elements finished with their own high-quality design.

Like the CR-V, the ZR-V features a high-deck centre control to separate the front seats and create individual zones for the driver and front-seat passenger.

The model also promises an elevated view of the road and a wide, horizontal field of vision thanks to drawn back A pillars and door-mounted wing mirrors, again like those of the Civic, HR-V and forthcoming CR-V.

AutO with JOHN MELLOR

The power of mindfulness

MINDFULLNESS is a powerful practice that has been gaining traction in recent years for its ability to reduce stress, increase focus, and improve overall well-being.

The practice of mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment, without judgment, and with a sense of curiosity and openness.

In this article, we will explore what mindfulness is and the benefits that can be gained from incorporating it into your daily life.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is an ancient practice that has been around for thousands of years, with roots in Buddhist meditation. It involves bringing your attention to the present moment, focusing on your thoughts, feelings, and sensations, without judging or trying to change them.

Mindfulness is not about stopping thoughts or emotions from arising, but rather about learning to observe them with an open mind and heart.

Mindfulness can be practiced in a variety of ways, including meditation, yoga, and mindful breathing exercises.

The key is to find a method that works for you and to make it a regular part of your routine.

Benefits of Mindfulness

The benefits of mindfulness are numerous and have been backed by research. Here are just a few of the many ways that mindfulness can improve your life:

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by helping people to become more aware of their thoughts and emotions.

By practicing mindfulness, you can learn to observe your thoughts without judgment and to let them go, rather than getting caught up in them. This can lead to a greater sense of calm and well-being.

Improves Focus and Attention

Mindfulness has also been shown to improve focus and attention. By training your mind to focus on the present moment, you can improve your ability to concentrate on tasks and to stay focused in the face of distractions.

Enhances Self-Awareness

Mindfulness can also enhance self-awareness, helping you to become more in tune with your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This can lead to greater self-understanding and a greater sense of control over your life.

Improves Sleep

Mindfulness has been shown to improve sleep by reducing stress and anxiety and by promoting relaxation. By practicing mindfulness before bed, you can help to calm your mind and prepare your body for sleep.

Boosts Immune System

There is also evidence to suggest that mindfulness can boost the immune system. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, mindfulness may help to improve the body's ability to fight off illness and disease.

Incorporating Mindfulness into Your Life

If you are interested in incorporating mindfulness into your life, there are many ways to get started. One of

the most popular methods is through mindfulness meditation, which involves sitting quietly and focusing on your breath or a specific object.

There are also many mindfulness apps and guided meditations available, which can make it easier to get started and to stay consistent with your practice.

Additionally, incorporating mindfulness into your daily activities, such as mindful eating or mindful walking, can help to bring greater awareness and presence to your life.

Conclusion

Mindfulness is a powerful practice that can bring numerous benefits to your life, including reduced stress, improved focus and attention, and enhanced self-awareness.

By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can experience greater well-being and a greater sense of control over your life.

Whether through meditation, yoga, or other mindful practices, mindfulness is a skill that can be developed and honed over time, leading to greater peace and happiness in your life.

at Blacktown Workers Club

puzzles

QUICK CROSSWORD

1. What is the most popular sport in Ethiopia?

2. What is the name of the children’s book written by Neil Gaiman (pictured), that features a boy named Bod?

3. Which Australian actress starred as Kate McGregor in Sea Patrol?

13 Job testimonials (10)

14 Establish in advance (9)

15 Flying machine (9)

17 Education (9)

21 Bird call (5)

23 very keen; ardent (4)

24 Descends underwater (5)

25 Ran away quickly (4)

SUDOKU

4. What type of government controls Lebanon?

5. What is the name of the new Los Angeles stadium that is home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers?

6. Which Ancient Roman goddess is the equivalent to the Greek Athena?

7. The first commercial CD release was a recording of waltzes by which composer?

8. Apia is the capital of which country?

9. Who created the T v series Gilmore Girls?

10. Which Middle Eastern country has been ruled by the Al Khalifa dynasty since 1783?

ACROSS

1 Grains

5 Pain

6 Pine (e.g.)

7 Fibrous plant

DOWN

1 Promise

2 Land area

3 Those people

4 Leak

WORD FIND No. 028

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

9-LETTER WORD No. 028

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Secret message:

ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

No. 037

16 Acclaimed 1994 crime film featuring characters Marsellus Wallace and Winston Wolfe (4,7)

17 Long-running English police drama set in the ’60s (9)

18 Aussie–American actress of the Netflix series Bloodline, Jacinda – (7)

5 L e TT e RS ACORN AROMA ASSET AVERT AWAIT AWAKE COMAS DIDNT

ACROSS

19 British historical fiction series based on Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories series of novels, The – Kingdom (4)

22 Aussie actress who starred in the TV series Damages, Rose – (5)

24 Oliver Stone’s 1991 political thriller (1,1,1)

26 Long-running Neighbours character played by Tom Oliver, – Carpenter (3)

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?

TT e RS

1 2012 film starring Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz and Alan Rickman (6)

5 He played Judas in the 2018 biblical drama Mary Magdalene, – Rahim  (5)

7 Actress and theatre director born in Ivanhoe, Victoria, – Blanchett (4)

OUSTS PANDA PIERS RADII

9 Aussie actress who won the third season of Dancing with the Stars, – Nicodemou (3)

10 2012–13 US military drama series (4,6)

12 English actor who died while filming Gladiator, Oliver – (4)

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations.

13 Star of Olympus Has Fallen and its sequels, –Eckhart (5)

Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

14 2012 Norwegian supernatural horror (5)

15 2018 Netflix horror film, The – House (4)

18 Winner of a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in Vice, Christian – (4)

20 Starred as Ted Taylor in Packed to the Rafters, Michael – (5)

27 Long-running Home and Away character played by Ray Meagher, – Stewart (3)

TRIAL VENUE WAKED WASPS

HERALDS NOWHERE STATION

SCHEDULE TRANSMIT

10 L e TT e RS

8 L e TT e RS

28 Popular US crime drama, Law & Order: Special Victims – (4)

RANGE REELS RESET SANER SASSY SEEDY SEWED SMALL STILL STONY TIDAL TILED TREAD

6 L e TT e RS

DERAIL ONSETS

29 Neo in the Matrix films, – Reeves (5)

GREENEST NEUROSES

30 2015 US found-footage horror thriller starring Ashley Benson (6)

DOWN

7 L e TT e RS ALBINOS AUDITOR CANYONS

2 Star of Big Eyes and Arrival, Amy – (5)

3 Actor who plays the lead character in the series Ozark, Jason – (7)

4 2013 British–Australian war film starring Colin Firth and Nicole Kidman (3,7,3)

5 Thriller starring Viggo Mortensen and Kirsten Dunst, The – Faces of January (3)

HIDDEN WORD

Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.

1 A square is a — with four sides

2 Something you put on an envelope

3 Sour fruit

4 Book that tells stories about Jesus

5 Someone who looks after kids, like Mary Poppins

6 Trimmed the grass

7 Thoughts, brainwaves

8 Side dish with mixed lettuce and dressing

e G

21 Australian actress also known by her rap name MC Dusk, – Cornish (5)

23 Comedy-drama starring Channing Tatum (pictured), Magic – (4)

A S I

25 Actor, playwright and filmmaker who played the titular character in Alex Cross (5,5)

T I

H R S

6 Name of the 1960s group of entertainers featuring Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, The – Pack (3)

7 Actor who played Bill in Tarantino’s Kill Bill films, David – (9)

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words –five reading across the grid and five reading down.

1. In what year was Thornton awarded an Order of Australia?

A. 2019

B. 2015

C. 2009

3. Besides Wentworth, Thornton starred in which prison drama?

A. Prisoner

B. Cop Shop

C. Matlock Police

8 The fifth and final film in the Dirty Harry series (3,4,4)

D. 2005

D. All of the above

NOTe: more than one solution may be possible

11 Star of Tammy and Hereditary, – Collette (4)

CHEMICALLY DIVINITIES S R T

14 1996 rom-com starring David Schwimmer and 11-down (3,10)

2. Which iconic Aussie film did she star in?

A. Strictly Ballroom

B. Muriel’s Wedding

C. The Man from Snowy River

D. All of the above

4. Who does Thornton play in Wentworth?

A. Sonia Stevens

B. Vera Bennett

C. Marie Winter

D. None of the above