SPRING FARM PARKWAY STAGE 2 PROGRESS
RESEARCH SHOWS CO-OP BENEFITS
LOCAL HERO
AFTER hosting her first Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in 2001, Kay was ready to pass on the mantle in the community after 15 years.
However, with no one else in the Camden community willing to fill the boots that were the size of her heart, Kay continued on, not wanting to leave a hole in the vital funds she had been able to contribute to support the work of the Cancer Council. Like all Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea hosts, Kay has a unique and personal connection to cancer that drove her to get involved with Cancer Council’s fundraiser. “In May 2000, my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 50, which then spread to her brain. That’s when I said to her daughters, ‘Why don’t we host an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea?’” More inside.
WEXPO LINE UP EXPANDS
ISSUE 29 | May 2023
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Spring Farm Parkway stage 2 progress
IN a major step for Spring Farm Parkway Stage 2, Jacobs Australia has been appointed to design the 3 kilometre east-west connection along with the Review of Environmental Factors report.
These elements will be used to develop a final business case from which construction funding will be determined.
Spring Farm Parkway Stage 2 is necessary to complete the key east-west link between the suburbs of Menangle Park and Spring Farm, realising a key corridor that was planned when the Spring Farm community was first established.
It will connect Camden Bypass, Hume Motorway and Menangle Road, along with providing improved access to residential and employment precincts in the Greater
RMacarthur Growth Area such as Spring Farm, Elderslie, Menangle Park, Mount Annan and Glen Alpine.
Providing an alternative to Narellan Road, also delivers direct access for freight trucks to the Southern Sydney Freight
Line terminal and shared pathways for pedestrians and cyclists.
The concept design and Review of Environmental Factors is expected to be released for public feedback in late 2026, with the final Business Case to be completed by early 2027. Detailed design and construction would follow, subject to final approvals and funding.
Once operational, Spring Farm Parkway is expected to divert around 30,000 cars per day from Narellan Road.
Jacobs Australia has had a depth of experience including involvement with projects such as WestConnex, the Pacific Highway Upgrade, NorthConnex and other important projects around the country.
For more information, go to www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ sfp2
Member for Campbelltown, Greg Warren MP said the appointment is an important step forward for our community, providing much needed accessibility for motorists, particularly in growth areas south of Campbelltown.
Member for Camden, Sally Quinnell MP said: “This project builds upon the success of Stage 1, helping to reduce congestion and improve accessibility for the people in Menangle Park and Spring Farm, while also working to support the growth the wider Camden electorate has been experiencing.
“I’m excited to see Stage 2 of the project progressing, and proud to be a part of a government working hard to ensure our Camden community has access to the infrastructure it has long been denied."
Changed traffic conditions at Menagle St
OAD users are advised of changed traffic conditions on Menangle Street between Colden Street and Matthews Lane, Picton between Tuesday 10 June and Sunday 22 June. Work will include griding off the
existing line marking. Workers will be on site for up to four-night shifts. The night shift work hours will be between 7pm and 5am, weather permitting. No work will be done on Friday or Saturday.
There will be temporary traffic impacts while work is completed. This includes temporary lane closures, and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h.
Please drive and ride to the conditions, keep to the speed limits and
follow the direction of traffic controllers and signs.
For the latest traffic updates across the network download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit www. livetraffic.com
Greg Warren MP, Sally Quinnell MP and Minister for Transport (and formerly Roads) John Graham at the Spring Farm Parkway Stage 1 site.
Research shows food co-op benefits
ACOMMUNITY-based food network operating across NSW and the ACT is helping people put fresh food on the table — and the impact is now backed by research.
A study from Western Sydney University and the University of Wollongong has found that Box Divvy — a people-powered food co-op with over 300 local Hubs — is linked to better diets and significantly lower rates of food insecurity among its members.
The research, published in the journal Appetite, surveyed more than 2,200 Box Divvy members and found:
· Food insecurity dropped by nearly half after
joining - from 51% of survey respondents down to 28% after joining.
· Rates of severe food insecurity — where people skip meals or go hungry — fell by more than half.
· People ate an average of 3.3 more serves of vegetables and 2.5 more serves of fruit each week.
· Those facing the most financial stress before joining Box Divvy saw the biggest improvements.
Box Divvy connects neighbours to order fresh, seasonal produce and pantry items — usually around 30% cheaper than supermarkets — and share it through a local Hub. There are no joining fees, just a regular commitment to order.
Hubs are run by local paid coordinators, known as Hubsters, making it a flexible income source for stayat-home parents, retirees and others.
“We created Box Divvy so people could eat well without breaking the bank,” said Anton van den Berg, co-founder of Box Divvy. “This study shows that community-led models like ours really do make a difference — financially, nutritionally, and emotionally.”
“Younger people, single-parent households and those on lower incomes were among the most food insecure before joining Box Divvy — and also the most likely to benefit,” said Dr Katherine Kent, lead author of the study. “That tells us that alternatives like Box Divvy are meeting a real need.”
Danielle Fraser, Box Divvy member from Leumeah said “Box Divvy helps my family keep healthy food on the table. With three kids I have to stick to a strict budget — and I’ve been constantly watching grocery prices go up. With Box Divvy, we get more fresh produce for less, and it lasts longer. We’ve had to change the way we eat a little — it’s less processed — but it’s better for us. It makes a big difference to both our health and the price of our weekly shop.”
The findings come as grocery costs continue to impact household budgets and ultra-processed foods become the fallback for many households trying to save. Researchers say co-ops like Box Divvy remain overlooked in Australia’s food and health policies, despite the evidence of their benefits.
Hospital service expansion welcomed
CAMDEN Council has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement it will establish a new renal dialysis unit at Camden Hospital, following the Council’s urgent call for necessary infrastructure investment as part of its advocacy campaign, The Time Is Now.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said the announcement was a significant step forward in improving access to life-saving treatment for the rapidly growing Camden community and a clear sign that the voices of local
Lresidents were being heard.
“We’re pleased to see the NSW Government investing in Camden Hospital to deliver services that are desperately needed by local residents. Being able to access renal dialysis treatment close to home will make a world of difference to so many families,” she said.
“However, while this announcement is a welcome step forward, it’s only the beginning. Camden’s population is growing rapidly and we must ensure Camden Hospital continues
to receive the investment it needs to meet the demands of today and tomorrow.”
“Council will continue to advocate for further investment in Camden Hospital, not only in renal services, but across the full range of clinical care our growing community needs,” Cr Cagney said.
The Time Is Now is Camden Council’s advocacy campaign calling for urgent investment from the State and Federal Governments into hospitals, schools, roads and public transport in the
Raby Indoor Cricket Centre now open
OCAL cricketers will now be able to enjoy a first-class indoor cricket facility following the opening of the new Raby Indoor Cricket Centre.
The $5.2M project includes six new lanes and nets, increasing the capacity of the Campbelltown-Camden District ‘Ghosts’ Cricket Club’s elite development programs while also providing state-of-the-art facilities for the wider community to use.
Mayor of Campbelltown Darcy
Lound cut the ribbon to officially open the new facility at a special ceremony today alongside Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty MP, Member for Camden Sally Quinnell MP Campbelltown-Camden District Club President Morris Iemma and Cricket Australia Head of Infrastructure Fiona Baxter.
“This new centre is a fantastic addition to the world-class facilities at Raby Sports Complex, ensuring local cricketers have the best opportunity possible to sharpen their
skills in an elite environment,” Cr Lound said.
“It is important that young local athletes have access to pathways that can help them achieve their dreams while also providing local residents with great facilities to enjoy,” he said.
Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said: “This centre is a big win for our community—supporting our local cricketers, from juniors to elite players, with local facilities they need to thrive. It's great to see
all levels of government working together to deliver real outcomes for South-West Sydney.”
As well as being used by the Ghosts for training and development, the facility will also be available to book for coaching sessions and casual hire later this year.
The project is funded by Council, the NSW Government through the NSW Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund and NSW ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund as well as Cricket Australia and Cricket NSW.
Mayor Ashlrigh Cagney.
Venue
WEXPO 2025 will be hosted at Hall 5A at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Australia.
For Exhibitors
Exhibitor Bump In: Tuesday 21st Oct – 3-5pm.
Exhibitor Bump out: Thursday 23rd – 9am – 3pm. Workshops
Commencing at 9am and running every hour with a 30-minute break in between. Details announced soon.
Workshops require registration at www.wexpo.com.au
Event opens to the public at 8am, concludes 6pm.
• Business & Work Visas
• Labour Agreements
• Training Visas (407)
• Partner Visas
• Parent Visas
• Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)
• Citizenship
CANCER COUNCIL’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA
Local legend Kay sets the regional standard
THE Cancer Council is encouraging Aussies to gather with their friends, family and workmates for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea–a chance to share a cuppa and a bite to eat while raising life-saving funds to make a difference for those impacted by cancer.
With one Australian diagnosed with cancer around every five minutes–the same length as an average tea break–Aussies can make a difference with every mugby registering for this year’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.
Cancer Council NSW Director of Marketing and Fundraising, Naomi Watson, said this year Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea was hoping to raise more than$16M to continue Cancer Council’s life-saving cancer research, prevention, advocacy and support programs.
“Since 1993, Australians have hosted tens of thousands of morning teas and raised over $200 million, helping to fund life-saving research and vital support for those affected by cancer,” Ms Watson said.
“With more than24,000 hosts participating each year, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea has cemented itself as one of the country’s most successful and beloved fundraisers.”
“From a laid-back picnic with friends to a large-scale workplace event, people can celebrate Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea their own way. No matter how your morning tea looks, it’s all about bringing people together in support of this important cause that impacts all of us. Tackling cancer takes all of us. Together, we can turn a simple morning tea into a powerful force for change. Join us this May and help raise the funds needed to fight cancer, one cup at a time,” Ms Watson said. Over the last 32years, the event has seen millions of Australians donate, fund-
raise, and support those affected by cancer.
Although Thursday 22ndMay is the official date to host a morning tea in support of Cancer Council–Aussies can host as an individual, community group or work place any time in May or June.
To get involved, register to host a Biggest Morning Tea today or donate at www.biggestmorningtea.com.au
If you or anyone you know has any questions about cancer or needs support, call Cancer Council on 1311 20
After hosting her first Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in 2001, Kay was ready to pass on the mantle in the community after 15 years. However, with no one else in the Camden community willing to fill the boots that were the size of her heart, Kay continued, not wanting to leave a hole in the vital funds she had been able to contribute to support the work of Cancer Council.
Like all Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea hosts, Kay has a unique and personal connection to cancer that drove her to get involved with Cancer Council’s fundraiser.
“In May 2000, my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 50, which then spread to her brain. That’s when I said to her daughters, ‘Why don’t we host an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea?’”
Kay’s nephew was also diagnosed with a very rare skin cancer and died at a young age. She also has a friend in remission who has received treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
From humble beginnings in 2001
At the first morning tea she hosted back in 2001, Kay recalls having 105 people come up her driveway, leading her to raise nearly $1,600.
“After the first year, everyone said to me ‘You’ve got to do this again!’. I had
Kay doing what she loves.
an awful lot of help, people were coming here at six in the morning bringing bread and sandwiches, pot plants and more for me to sell. I get so many people coming up to me even today saying ‘I remember you, I came to your first Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.’ Everyone seems to know who I am!”
Kay’s sister passed away in 2004, which is the reason for her commitment to continue to make a difference for all those who are affected by cancer.
“I keep coming back to host so I can help support cancer research. I look up in the sky every so often and think, If you hadn't got cancer, what would I be doing?”
25 years of hosting Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
Fast forward 25 years, and over $372,000 raised for Cancer Council across her involvement with Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Relay For Life and The March Charge, and donating half of the money she makes through selling her own jam in the community, 2025 will be Kay’s last morning tea, marking the end of an era in Camden.
With a quarter of a century worth of experience under her belt, Kay’s advice to others considering hosting their own Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is simple. “Get out there and raise money for a great cause.” she says, also calling out the invaluable support of the Camden community "So many people have just been so generous. People were walking up the driveway with all this food and would also leave so much stuff for us to sell or auction, so we’d host a garage sale the same week to raise more money for Cancer Council.”
Australian cancer facts and figures
One Australian is diagnosed with cancer approximately every five minutes, the length of an average tea break. Almost one in two Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85. It’s estimated that over 169,500 Australians were diagnosed with cancer last year–that’s more than 460per day. It’s estimated that over one million Australians have either survived a diagnosis or are currently living with cancer.
Ambulance ramping has doubled
AMBULANCE ramping in Australia has doubled in five years, with hospitals overwhelmed and patients suffering tragic delays, according to the AMA’s latest report.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen warned that under-resourcing, a lack of beds, and exit block are major issues, urging urgent action and a new National Health Reform Agreement. She called for more transparency in data reporting, highlighting the growing human and financial costs of the crisis.
New homes build at lowest levels
IN 2024, just 168,050 new homes began construction in Australia, the lowest level in over a decade, according to HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon. He warned that the loss of skilled workers to other sectors threatens future building capacity. Australia must build over 250,000 homes annually to meet housing targets. Reardon urged immediate government action to reduce taxes and fees, alongside long-term reforms in land supply, infrastructure, planning, and taxation.
Super should be paid on payday
THE Super Members Council is urging all political parties to prioritise passing payday super laws within the first 100 days of the new Parliament. The reforms will require super to be paid on payday, reducing $5B in annual unpaid super losses affecting 2.8 million Australians. CEO Misha Schubert stressed swift action is needed to ensure workers receive their legal entitlements. Proposed changes aim to ease implementation and support employers during the transition, ensuring a fairer super system.
Flexibility key to return to work
RETURNING to work can be challenging for parents, especially single parents and those living with disability or caring for a child with disability. Research shows flexible hours, part-time work, and
Hemp pushed as mainstream crop
THE NSW Government has released a draft Hemp Industry Development Plan for public comment, aiming to establish hemp as a mainstream, sustainable crop. The plan sets out a vision supported by four strategic objectives to guide industry growth and collaboration. Developed by the NSW Hemp Industry Taskforce, it identifies key opportunities to strengthen the sector. Public feedback is open until May 19, 2025 via the Have Your Say website.
childcare assistance are key to workforce participation. atWork Australia supports over 8,500 parents, helping more than 2,600 find jobs over the past year through training and tailored employment support. Success stories like Kong and Jack highlight the importance of flexibility, upskilling, and ongoing assistance in achieving sustainable employment.
Praise for treeclearing crackdown
LOCAL Government NSW has welcomed the NSW Government’s proposed crackdown on illegal tree and vegetation clearing, calling it a major win for councils, communities, and the environment. LGNSW President Mayor Phyllis Miller praised the plan for stronger penalties and
improved enforcement, saying it responds to years of council advocacy. Proposed reforms include higher fines, clearer policies, permit conditions for vegetation replacement, and powers to close loopholes and issue compliance orders.
Pregnant drivers and seatbelt risk
AMONASH University study found that while nearly all pregnant drivers in Australia wear seatbelts, only 41.4% position them correctly, risking maternal and foetal safety. Proper positioning requires the lap belt under the belly and the shoulder belt between the breasts. Most participants hadn’t received guidance on correct use, highlighting a major public health gap. Researchers call for
targeted education and better communication from healthcare providers to improve safety and recommend exploring vehicle and seatbelt design improvements.
Antidepressant is now on PBS
FROM May 1, Australians with treatment-resistant depression will gain affordable access to SPRAVATO® (esketamine), a nasal spray now listed on the PBS—the first new government-funded treatment for major depression in 30 years. Used with an oral antidepressant, it costs as little as $7.70 per dose. SPRAVATO offers hope to up to 30,000 people who haven’t responded to other medications, with treatment only available at certified clinics under medical supervision.
Australia’s number one marketplace for products, services and resources for children , parents and families.
HOW DRUG DEALERS USE SOCIAL MEDIA Innocent victims in suburbia
CRIMINALS running sophisticated
dial-a dealer drug supply rings are
luring suburban mums and dads into a life of crime using Snapchat.
People living innocent suburban lives in Sydney are being swept up in police operations while the masterminds stay protected behind a social media veil.
These unwitting foot soldiers face serious jail time, even if they have no prior criminal record.
“Drug suppliers like Snapchat as the message evaporates,” criminal solicitor, Mathew Nott, said.
“The drug masterminds post something like ‘Want to work out of home as a courier and earn $50 an hour’ to engage with unsuspecting people who are struggling to turn a dollar.
“In the era of Uber eats, people are open to this sort of dial a drug dealer concept.
“After a few exchanges on social media, the person arrives at the pickup location but instead of being given a legal package to deliver, they are given a few ounces of cocaine and a burner mobile phone.
“In that moment, with the promise of easy cash and thinking it is all low risk, they take the drugs and the phone and await the incoming messages
Twhich give them the addresses to drop the drugs off.”
At the end of the evening, the courier will be given a nominal fee per drug drop, perhaps as low as $50 per deal, depending on the type of drug.
Meanwhile, as the police swoop on the low-level courier, the masterminds of the scheme have changed addresses, changed phones, and hidden their identity on social media.
Drug related crime is exploding in NSW, according to police records.
Crime reported to police, or detected by police, relating to dealing or trafficking in cocaine has increased by 21%.
Importing drugs is up by 23.9% though the baseline offence count is low at 200 offences
Possession and/or use of other drugs is up by 11.5% with the number of criminal incidents high 6,501 counts.
Mr Nott said that getting caught up in a dial-a-dealer scheme could result in additional non-drug related charges
also being levelled by police.
“If apprehended, you can be expected to face the normal range of charges such as supply prohibited drug and possess prohibited drug,” Mr Nott said.
“However, you are also likely to be charged with offences such as knowingly deal with proceeds of crime which are related to the fact that, if you are acting as a courier, you are likely in possession of a bundle of cash arising out of the sale of the illegal drugs.”
NSW Police recently said during Strike Force Dolci investigations into the supply of drugs they uncovered a dial-a-dealer drug syndicate believed to be connected to an organised criminal network.
On 5 February, news broke that three men have been charged, including a key member of an organised crime group, over an alleged dial-a-dealer drug syndicate in Sydney's south west.
In Nov 2021, three people have been charged after almost $128,000 worth of cocaine was seized as part of police investigations into a 'dial-a-dealer' operation in Sydney.
If you have been charged with a drug offence, contact Nott and Co Lawyers on www. nottandcolaweyrs.com.au
Why legal cannabis is still illegal
HE law is out of step with society in NSW when it comes to driving with medical cannabis in your system.
If you drive with even the smallest detectable trace of cannabis in your system, you are going to be charged with a criminal offence under section 111 of the Road Transport Act.
Even if that cannabis has been prescribed by a GP and you have legally consumed it.
Yet across the border in the ACT, you can buy and smoke
cannabis legally.
In 2006, the NSW parliament criminalised drug driving.
Mobile drug tests became the police tool of enforcement.
At a roadside stop, police have the power to obtain a saliva sample from you using a swab stick, or a device that scrapes your tongue.
If caught, the maximum penalty for a first-time offender is $2200 with a 6-month licence disqualification period.
“The legislation is contro-
versial as you can be charged even if you are driving perfectly competently and the cannabis in your system has been legal prescribed by a GP,” criminal lawyer, Mathew Nott, said.
“The law has got to change to permit people people the opportunity to produce their cannabis prescriptions if stopped by police for a roadside test.
“If their only issue is a positive roadside test for traces of cannabis, they should be permitted to go on their way
rather than end up in court on a drug-related charge.”
In 2016, medicinal cannabis was introduced as a common form of medical treatment for a range of conditions such as body pains and anxiety.
The legislation as currently drafted fails to provide a defence for offenders who test positive for cannabis which is medicinally prescribed.
Early this year, drug driving was announced to be an absolute liability offence which makes it
even tougher if you are charged. This means that the defence of honest and reasonable mistake of fact is no longer available.
In the right circumstances, you can have your charge dismissed if you have been driving with legally prescribed cannabis in your system.
For expert advice from laweyrs with a track record in drug diving cases, Contact Nott and Co Lawyers for more a private discussion.
Be Prepared
in Western Sydney for Winter Illness
Western Sydney could be facing a challenging winter with COVID-19, influzena and other respiratory illnesses already on the rise.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent winter illness like COVID-19 and influenza.
More about the Flu Shot
The influenza vaccines are free under the National Immunisation Program for:
9 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
9 Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
9 Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
9 People aged 65 years or over
9 People aged 6 months or over who have medical conditions that mean they have a higher risk of getting serious disease:
- cardiac disease
- chronic respiratory conditions
- immunocompromising conditions
- haematological disorders
- chronic metabolic disorder
- chronic kidney disease
- chronic neurological condition
- long term aspirin therapy in children aged 5 to 10 years.
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
Go to healthdirect (www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-healthservices/all-services/influenza-flu-vaccine) or scan the
Explore the world of Ume (Plum)
JAPAN’S regionality is fun to explore and if you’ve bitten into an ume (Japanese plum) you may have some curiosity about them.
What are they and why are they so prominent in Japanese cuisine from breakfast to snacks to dinner? Sour, soft, pickled or sipped in liqueur form, there is a deep history attached to this culinary tradition and just a car ride or train ride from Osaka to Wakayama, Minabe in the Kii Peninsula, you can learn all about ume.
Base yourself at the Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa, one of the newest Grand Mercure Hotels added to the Accor portfolio and as the name suggests is a relaxing getaway from city hustle and bustle, with fabulous ocean and bay views including awe-inspiring sunsets and indoor-outdoor hotel onsens piped hot from under the earth.
There are 1200 households producing plums in Minabe, it’s a 400-yearold local family tradition and as you visit markets, stores and restaurants, regional pride in ume production is evident. Eighteen of these 1200 households are plum factories but just three producers produce liqueur, and the Grand Mercure staff can arrange a visit for you to a producer who has a farm,
household factory and produces sake. Plumity, run by 3rd generation plum producer, Arimoto Yohei, is just a few minutes from the Grand Mercure by car. Yohei is passionate about the growing, drying, fermenting process that results in a delightful array of delicious, bottled sake. Yohei explains the health benefits of ume, how ume is best enjoyed in Japan and takes you to his ume trees, drying trays and fermenting vats. Ume is reportedly rich in antioxidant nutri-
ents that is great for immune support and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Back at the Grand Mercure, Minabe, you can purchase ume liqueur from the hotel shop, and with new understanding you may enjoy every drop, even more - as you gaze across Chisato Beach. You may not want to leave the hotel, so relaxing is your stay - in between riding the hotel bicycles enjoying country air and expansive views, you can enjoy ume as part of delicious hotel buffet meals and the hotel’s signature com-
plimentary night cap - featuring - you guessed it- ume liquor and ume snacks.
To get to Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa, fly into the international gateway of Osaka, Kansai Airport and take the JR Limited Express Kuroshio from Shin-Osaka Station directly to Minabe Station and catch a 10–15-minute taxi to the hotel. Alternatively, hire a car and drive via the Hanwa Expressway, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Book your stay at all.accor.com
Refurb for Parramatta’s PARKROYAL
DHotel.
PARKROYAL Parramatta’s recently refurbished accommodation delivers a fresh take on hospitality in the heart of Sydney’s dynamic second city.
The newly updated guest rooms echo the spirit of Australia’s fastest-growing region. Soft neutral tones set a calm mood - think scribbly gum-patterned carpets and native flora-inspired wattle motifs that pay homage to the area’s rich heritage. Our Deluxe King Corner Room came with sweeping views of the World Heritage-listed Parramatta Park and the iconic Eels’ CommBank Stadium. It’s an ideal spot for early risers heading out for a jog or cycle—though a slower start is equally rewarding, especially with Water Dragons often seen basking by the riverbank.
Just steps from the hotel, Church Street buzzes with a global mix of restaurants that speak to the area’s multicultural flair. Mornings start strong with an impressive buffet breakfast complete with made-to-order
eggs, a pancake station, and fresh juices. Service is a standout—friendly, professional, and genuinely welcoming.
Bar 30, located beside the Lobby, serves an impressive array of signature cocktails and gourmet bites. The alfresco deck is perfect for a sunset drink before a show at the nearby Riverside Theatre. Equally, dining at Table 30 exceeded our expectations - highlights include the entree seared scallops, Spaghetti alla Chitarra with fresh tiger prawns and the indulgent Beef Top Wagyu Tajima Sirloin, grilled to perfection. For a relaxed Sunday
afternoon treat, don’t miss the Bottomless High Tea in the hotel’s Premium Club Lounge on Level 7, served from Noon to 2:30 pm— an elegant spread of sweet and savoury delights that won’t leave you disappointed. Kids are welcome, and complimentary parking makes it all the more convenient. With its prime location just 10 minutes from the train and RiverCat terminals, plus easy access via WestConnex, PARKROYAL Parramatta is ideal for a weekend escape or a luxe staycation.
www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-andresorts/pr-parramatta
Women solo travel stories
ISCOVER the Transformative Power of Going It Alone with Lonely Planet’s new book. Women Travel Solo is an exciting collection of 30 women sharing their inspiring stories of exploration and self-discovery. Read about these
fabulous women and find your next destination. Jessica Nabango, the first black woman to travel to every country around the world, shares her amazing story. Lorna Parkes discovers the way forward while pregnant in Morocco. Jessica Lockhart, Kiwi
based writer and Lonely Planet’s Destination Editor, Oceania, talks about being a solo LGBTQ+ traveller. Australian writer Sarah Reid shares her solo travel experiences in Bahrain. Jeannette Ceja shares how her trip to Spain helped her grow and celebrate herself. Dianne Saverin takes a solo 800km skijor trip to a remote hot spring in the Arctic. Women Travel Solo by Lonely Planet, $35.99 RRP ($39.99 NZD).
Parramatta Psarkroyal
The world of Japanese plums.
Treat yourself when in Melbourne
AREFINED retreat in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs, the PARKROYAL Monash effortlessly marries contemporary luxury with an inviting, relaxed atmosphere.
Throughout the property, curated local artwork by Gippsland artist Aidan Weichard adds a thoughtful layer of character—each piece a quiet floral nod to the creativity of the surrounding region. This Global Sustainable Tourism Council certified hotel is a real gem adjacent to Monash University, major commercial centres and Victorian tourism standouts Philip Island, Yarra Valley and the Dandanong ranges.
The design is modern and sophisticated, yet never cold—think clean lines, natural textures, and a calming palette that instantly puts you at ease. Room options cater to every kind of traveller, from plush king-bedded rooms to spacious suites with fold-out sofas ideal for families. For those requiring more flexibility, select rooms feature kitchenettes and laundry facilities—perfect for commuting executives or extended stays. Guests with accessibility needs, including those visiting nearby medical facilities, will find specially designed rooms that ensure both comfort and dignity.
Dining is a true highlight. Ginger, the in-house restaurant, offers an elegant yet approachable menu that celebrates both land and sea. Expect perfectly cooked steaks and a beautifully balanced array of pan-Asian dishes, with influences from Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, and Sri Lanka.
The breakfast buffet is equally generous, catering to all dietary
preferences—with everything from plant-based options to European-style cold cuts. If you prefer to explore options adjacent to the hotel, PARK ROYAL is part of the M-City development featuring a wide range of cafes and restaurants as well as new Woolworths.
Wellness is taken seriously at PARK ROYAL, with guests enjoying premium access to SNAP Fitness—a full-service gym that far exceeds the
standard hotel offering. Whether you’re squeezing in a pre-meeting workout or maintaining your routine while travelling, you’ll be well catered for. If you fancy a run or walk, the Monash University campus is close by and features nature trails and open space.
For events, the hotel delivers with polished sophistication. Its modular conference and event spaces are equipped with cutting-edge AV,
making it an ideal venue for corporate gatherings, weddings, and everything in between. The team at PARKROYAL are warm and friendly and swift to assist where needed, whether for a personal stay or helping you make a major event a big success.
Stylish, welcoming, and exceptionally well-appointed, this hotel is a standout destination for discerning travellers seeking understated luxury in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs.
Don’t miss Vivid, Sydney’s best-lit experience
Experience Vivid at Darling Harbour Vivid with family and friends between May 23 to June 14 in Sydney’s CBD. Stay at the Skye Suites right in the heart of the action (300 Kent Street) and just minutes away by foot, you will experience the ‘vibrant spectacle of light and creativity’ of 10+ light activations including a water show and an interactive playground of see-saws that watch you back among other incredible activations.
Don’t miss Tumbalong Nights, a free music program running all festival long. Grab dinner and drinks from the many easy offerings at Darling Harbour before an
easy stroll back to the hotel. Start your exciting Vivid evening at Skye Suites with a swim in the stunning indoor pool or relax in the spa while
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you in the pool. The Skye Suites has two-bedroom suites for your family or friends, rooms have a boutique design and layout that will make it difficult to leave the apartment - so gorgeous. Suites have an open plan style with kitchens or kitchenettes and an internal laundry. It’s a very easy Vivid staycation! The building itself is architecturally designed by award winning architect Koichi Takada, who won the award for excellence.
Skye also has studio rooms and onebedroom suites available if a couples stay is more your thing. Book now at https://skyesydney.com.au
