HILLS ACTS ON ASBESTOS REMOVAL
BOOST FOR CHILDREN WITH HEARING LOSS
MORE COMMUTER PARKING
THE NSW Government is investing $160M to add up to 1,200 new commuter parking spaces at Tallawong and Hills Showground Metro stations, addressing chronic overcrowding that has left both car parks full most mornings before 8am. The bulk of the funding will go
toward a new multi-storey car park at Tallawong, adding up to 1,100 spaces. The suburb is expected to see rapid growth, with more than 50,000 homes planned for the North-West Growth Area over the next 20 years. Image shows proposed new parking facilities at Tallawong. More inside.
Parentopia Australia’s number one marketplace for products, services and resources for children , parents and families.
ISSUE 13 | July 2026
How to get The News
The North West News is available at strategic locations throughout Sydney’s North West. To find a location near you visit our website.
Digital edition
Each edition of The North West News can be viewed and downloaded in digitalf ormat at our ISSUU platform: www.issuu/communitybroadcastnetwork
Contacts
Admin and General
info@thenorthwestnews.au
Editor Michael Walls michael@accessnews.com.au
Advertising
Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au
Linda Miller linda@accessnews.com.au
Platinum
The
Távula named restaurant partner
THE McCall Foundation has announced Távula as the café and restaurant partner for its new $55 million Community Hub in Box Hill.
Távula, meaning “table” in Italian, reflects a simple philosophy. No matter who you are or where you come from, there is always a seat at the table.
The Café/restaurant which will also feature a deli will be operated by hospitality couple Beth and Marcus Colosimo, who currently run two other local venues, Temptations and the Bird in the Hand in Pitt Town.
McCall Foundation CEO Belinda Colombrita said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to inclusion and community connection.
“After visiting Beth and Marcus’ other venues many times and talking through our vision for the Hub, it was clear we share the same belief in
creating a place where everyone feels welcome,” Ms Colombrita said.
“Their passion for hospitality,
along with delicious food and great coffee, makes them a wonderful fit.”
“Over the past five years we’ve
had the privilege of sharing our love for cooking, good food and building a strong sense of community,” Ms Colosimo said.
“That love comes from our late Nonna, whose home was always full of people, laughter and food. Everyone was welcome at her table.”
The McCall Community Hub will bring together McCall’s corporate services, allied health and community programs, alongside social and skills spaces, an aquatic centre and swim school, function areas and the new café/restaurant, “Távula.
Two state heritage listed buildings, Box Hill House and Nelson Hall, will also be activated as spaces for local businesses, exhibitions and community gatherings.
“Távula’s mission to bring people together over great food aligns beautifully with our vision for the Hub,” Ms Colombrita said.
Hawkesbury’s local events fund boost
HAWKESBURY City Council has secured a $500,000 NSW Government grant through the Permit/Plug/Play Program to boost its ability to host local events. The Hawkesbury
Streets: Activate and Celebrate project will deliver place activation works in Richmond and Windsor, including permanent and portable infrastructure, reusable traffic equipment, power bollards, and a
digital permit portal with pre-approved Traffic Management Plan templates. The upgrades aim to cut red tape and reduce time and costs for event organisers. Mayor Les Sheather welcomed the fund-
ing, thanking Transport for NSW, and said events help the city grow culturally, celebrate heritage and support economic growth while making it easier for local groups to hold events.
The Tavula cafe/restaurant
Boost for children with hearing loss
MORE than 1,000 children with cochlear implants across NSW will continue to receive specialised support each year under a $20.4M funding commitment announced in the NSW Government’s 2026-27 State Budget.
The investment will support two leading not-for-profit organisations, The Shepherd Centre and NextSense, which partner with NSW Health through the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network and John Hunter Children’s Hospital to provide essential care before and after cochlear implant surgery.
The funding will ensure children with hearing loss continue to receive services that are critical to helping them develop communication skills and reach important developmental milestones.
These include the initial activation, or “switch-on”, of the implant, ongoing programming and monitoring of devices, speech and language support, social
Jdevelopment programs and family education services.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said early diagnosis and surgery were only the beginning of the journey for children receiving cochlear implants.
“Children need specialist support before and after implantation to learn
how to interpret sound and fully benefit from this remarkable technology,” Mr Park said.
The investment complements the Statewide Infant Screening Hearing Program (SWISH), which screens every newborn in NSW for hearing loss. Since the program began in 2002, more than
two million babies have been tested, enabling early diagnosis and referral to specialist services.
NextSense President David Dinte AM said Australia was a global leader in cochlear implant technology, but long-term outcomes depended on quality support after surgery.
“When combined with high-quality early intervention, children can achieve incredible outcomes and require fewer hearing supports later in life,” he said.
The Shepherd Centre Chief Executive Officer Dr Aleisha Davis described the funding as a landmark investment that provides certainty for families.
“Cochlear implants can provide access to sound, but specialist care before and after surgery is what helps children develop communication skills and confidence,” Dr Davis said.
The funding forms part of the NSW Government’s record $10.3B increase in health spending over four years, aimed at expanding services and improving health outcomes across the state.
Free franchises on offer for 7-Eleven affected
IMS Group founder Jim Penman has launched a rescue package offering free franchises to 7-Eleven franchisees unfairly affected by the retailer's ongoing controversy. Jim's Group will cover franchise fees and establishment costs, with franchisees
able to choose from over 50 divisions, from lawn mowing to dog washing, or create a new one. Penman said he couldn't watch hardworking Australians lose their investments, criticising government inaction and the Franchising Code for failing to pro-
tect franchisees despite numerous industry reviews. He also proposed an independent annual franchisee survey and a public transparency register funded by franchisors. Affected 7-Eleven franchisees can contact Jim's Group at www.jims.net/contact-us/.
ADRIANA SOARS AT ECO PAGEANT
With North West in her heart
TONY BOSWORTH
ADRIANA Gravador has put Blacktown firmly on the global map after making Australian pageant history at the Miss Eco International 2026 competition in Egypt where she also helped shine an international spotlight on environmental sustainability.
The Qantas cabin crew member and Blacktown resident was crowned Miss Eco International Oceania and finished second runner-up overall at the prestigious international pageant in Alexandria, Egypt, competing against 50 other contestants from around the world.
The achievement marks Australia's highest-ever placing in the competition and the first time we’ve secured a double placement in the event’s history.
But for Ms Gravador, the success was about far more than beauty. Throughout the competition she promoted sustainable aviation through her environmental campaign, FlyEcoWithAdriana, encouraging communities to think about the future of environmentally responsible air travel and ways to offset aviation-generated carbon emissions.
"As someone who has grown up in Blacktown, I am incredibly proud to represent our community on the world stage," Ms Gravador told Blacktown News.
"I hope my journey demonstrates that local residents can make meaningful contributions internationally while remaining committed to giving back to the communities that shaped them."
Her advocacy has already taken her well beyond Australia's borders.
pageant, she also met with Australian consular representatives in Egypt and the Philippines, as well as the Egyptian Consulate in Australia, promoting Australian environmental leadership and strengthening international cooperation on sustainability.
Away from the pageant stage, Ms Gravador works as a Qantas short-haul cabin crew member and has represented both the airline and her local community through national and international campaigns.
Those collaborations have included projects with UNICEF, Cricket Australia, and Qantas’s international Explorer campaign.
Yet despite her growing international profile, Ms Gravador says Blacktown remains at the heart of everything she hopes to achieve.
“My vision for the future is to leverage this international title and platform to inspire meaningful change and create lasting opportunities to give back to my community,” she said.
"It would be an absolute dream to bring my #FlyEcoWithAdriana mangrove and tree-planting initiatives to Blacktown City Council, especially with the opening of the new Western Sydney International Airport right here in our own backyard."
Through #FlyEcoWithAdriana, she has led and taken part in environmental initiatives across Australia and the Philippines, including mangrove restoration projects, community clean-up events, recycling campaigns, environmental education programs and sustainability partnerships.
During her international travels for the beauty
Her Sustainable Aviation project, presented during the international competition, outlined practical ways communities can contribute to a greener aviation future while encouraging environmental responsibility through education and local participation.
Ms Gravador said she hopes her international success will inspire young people across Blacktown to pursue ambitious goals while remembering the importance of serving their local communities.
Adriana Gravador has put North West firmly on the global map.
More commuter parking coming
THE NSW Government is investing
$160M to add up to 1,200 new commuter parking spaces at Tallawong and Hills Showground Metro stations, addressing chronic overcrowding that has left both car parks full most mornings before 8am.
The bulk of the funding will go toward a new multi-storey car park at Tallawong, adding up to 1,100 spaces.
The suburb is expected to see rapid growth, with more than 50,000 homes planned for the North-West Growth Area over the next 20 years.
Hills Showground station will also get an extra storey added to its existing car park, delivering up to 100 additional spaces. Both upgrades will be folded into Transport's Park&Ride system, which offers commuters 18 hours of free parking daily when using public transport.
The government says the expansion reflects years of underinvestment in transport infrastructure as Sydney's northwest experienced sustained population growth without matching parking capacity to serve the M1 metro line.
Premier Chris Minns said parking at both stations was "at a premium every day," with commuters often left with no choice but to circle for a spot. He said the shortfall stemmed from a failure to build enough car parks to meet growing demand on the northwest metro line.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said commuters deserved better than starting their mornings hunting for parking, calling the investment part of the government's broader commitment to the region's infrastructure needs.
Transport Minister John Graham said the M1 metro had transformed travel for northwest residents who previously had limited public transport options, and described the new spaces as one part of a wider review of improvements planned for metro users.
Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby said the parking shortage was a message he heard constantly from constituents.
"The most common feedback is about the lack of parking at these stations," he said, adding that the government was more than doubling capacity to give commuters a better chance of finding a spot.
Federal Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland welcomed the announcement, saying local Labor representatives were responding directly to community concerns.
"We've heard the community's calls
for more parking at Tallawong Metro," she said, noting the new car park would more than double available spaces for local families.
She said that cutting the time commuters spend searching for parking would help get people to their destinations sooner.
The government has framed the parking expansion as one piece of a broader transport strategy for the region, alongside improvements to bus services, active transport options and metro capacity, as it works to keep pace with continued growth across northwest Sydney.
Hills welcomes free asbestos disposal trial
HILLS Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne has welcomed the NSW Government's new free asbestos disposal trial, launching in 2027, calling it a "huge win" for local households. She said she has campaigned for years for a new approach to asbestos disposal, having long pushed for the removal of the state's waste levy on asbestos taken to licensed facilities. She pointed out that one in three homes built
before 1990 may contain asbestos, since the material was once widely considered safe for construction use.
Dr Byrne warned that improperly handled or disposed of asbestos remains highly dangerous, capable of causing life-threatening illnesses such as lung cancer.
She said illegal dumping has been a persistent problem across The Hills for decades, and is often
difficult to police, with councils left to remove waste from public land when offenders cannot be traced.
The free pick-up service, she added, gives renovators and contractors a strong incentive to dispose of asbestos responsibly.
Council approval is generally still required for removal, alongside oversight from SafeWork NSW.
MP Warren Kirby.
Artist impression of the parking area at Hills Showground.
Magazine for thriving over-55s
AUSTRALIA’S growing over-55 population has inspired the launch of Seniors Best Living (SBL), a new lifestyle publication created in Western Sydney.
SBL is dedicated to celebrating healthy ageing, active living and the opportunities available to one of the nation's fastest-growing demographics.
Published by Community Broadcast Network (CBN) –publishers of the Blacktown News - SBL will provide readers with inspiring stories, expert advice and practical information covering travel, health, retirement living, finance, technology, lifestyle, community events and wellbeing.
The publication launches at a time when Australia's population is ageing faster than ever.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around one in six Australians is now aged 65 or over, with that proportion expected to grow to between 21 and 23 per cent of the population by 2066.
Workforce participation among older Australians has also increased significantly, reflecting a generation that is living longer, remaining active and continuing to contribute to their communities and the economy.
Research shows mature-aged entrepreneurs contribute more than $12B annually to the Australian economy through more than 380,000 businesses.
They also launch around 14,000 new businesses every year, making entrepreneurs aged 45 and over one of Austra-
lia's fastest-growing business groups.
Publisher Michael Walls said the publication had been created to reflect the changing face of ageing in Australia.
"Today's seniors are redefining what it means to grow older. They are travelling, volunteering, starting businesses, embracing technology, maintaining active lifestyles and making an enormous contribution to Australian society," Mr Walls said.
"Seniors Best Living is about celebrating this generation while providing trusted, practical information that engages our audience with good information and entertaining stories.
“We want to inspire our readers with positive stories, connect them with quality products and services, and create a publication that truly reflects modern senior living."
Produced in both print and digital formats, SBL will feature content on health, retirement villages, home care, finance, property, travel, leisure, technology, community initiatives and inspirational Australians who continue to make a difference later in life.
Mr Walls said the publication would become an important voice for Australia's ageing population while providing businesses with an effective platform to engage one of Australia’s most influential and financially significant consumer markets.
Visit: www.seniorsbestliving.au
TAccelerating the delivery of quality homes
HE NSW Government has launched an Expression of Interest inviting local and international manufacturers to establish or expand NSW facilities producing prefabricated building components and modular housing using Modern
Methods of Construction (MMC). The initiative aims to accelerate the delivery of high-quality homes, boost local manufacturing, strengthen supply chains and create skilled jobs. Government support may include funding, land and procure-
ment opportunities. The program follows almost $4M in housing innovation funding and a $1.6M investment in a new regulatory framework for prefabricated housing, with applications closing on 29 July 2026.
Students engaging with culture
MORE than 100 Western Sydney families will experience the magic of live theatre in July thanks to a community initiative by the Coliseum Theatre that is breaking down barriers to the arts.
Working with local schools, the Rooty Hill venue identified that many families in the area can’t access cultural experiences, with some relying on school Breakfast Club programs to ensure children start the day with a meal.
Motivated by the mission to assist, the Coliseum has partnered with Monkey Baa Theatre Company to bring the arts directly into local classrooms.
As part of the initiative, 160 students at Rooty Hill Public School took part in four fully subsidised theatre workshops led by Monkey Baa Artistic Director Eva Di Cesare.
Through puppetry, movement and performance, students were encouraged to explore their creativity in a fun, play-based environment.
"It was an absolute pleasure and privilege spending a day at Rooty Hill Public School running workshops with the students with some brilliant support from the teachers," Ms Di Cesare said.
"The students took up the tasks and games with creativity and incredible imagination. There is a spe-
cial spirit as you enter the school and I felt it throughout the day. Thank you to the Coliseum Theatre and all who made it happen."
The initiative has also enabled more than 100 families from Rooty Hill Public School and Plumpton West Public School to attend Monkey Baa Theatre Company's production of Where is the Green Sheep? at the Coliseum Theatre during the July school holidays.
Rooty Hill Public School Deputy Principal, Sue
TBridge said the experience had inspired students while making live theatre accessible for the broader school community.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Coliseum Theatre and the Monkey Baa team for bringing the magic of theatre into our school," Ms Bridge said.
"The interactive workshops sparked our students' creativity and imagination, and the generous gift of tickets for students and their families to attend the live performance of Where is the Green Sheep? made this fantastic experience accessible to our school community."
Coliseum Theatre General Manager Trish Charan said providing young people with opportunities to engage with the arts was a key priority.
"Creating a foundation for young people to experience the arts is one of the most important things we can do at the Coliseum," Ms Charan said.
"By nurturing curiosity and creativity early, we're helping build a future where every young person has the chance to discover the power of arts education and the joy of live performance."
Where is the Green Sheep? will be performed at the Coliseum Theatre, Rooty Hill, on 17 and 18 July. Tickets are still available. Visit: www.coliseumtheatre.com.au
Funds for better access to ADHD treatment
HE NSW Government will invest $11.7M in the 2026-27 Budget to improve access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment, including $1.5M to fund free GP assessments for up to 2,500 people aged six and over from early 2027.
The initiative could save families up to $1,500 a year in out-of-pocket costs. The package also includes funding to train more GPs as endorsed prescribers, provide specialist paediatric and psychiatry support, and improve access to allied
health services. Since ADHD reforms began, more than 1,400 GPs have joined the program, with over 15,000 patients accessing easier medication prescribing and more timely care across NSW.
Sue Bridge - Rooty Hill Public School, Eva Di Cesare – Monkey Baa Theatre Company, Trish Charan – Coliseum Theatre.
Grants open for community groups
AUSTRALIA Post is inviting eligible not-for-profit organisations across New South Wales to apply for Community Grants of up to $10,000 to support locally led projects that strengthen social connection and improve mental health and wellbeing. An additional $250,000 has been set aside for disaster-impacted communities. Since 2019, more than 530 grants have been awarded nationwide. Applications close at 11.59pm (AEST) on Monday, 6 July 2026, with successful applicants announced in September. Guidelines and applications are available via Australia Post Community Grants Program.
Doctors call for funding reforms
THE Australian Medical Association is calling for urgent reforms and increased funding to improve healthcare for Australians living in residential aged care. The AMA says funding shortfalls, regulatory barriers and poor digital integration are preventing GPs from providing regular care, leading to avoidable hospital admissions and poorer health outcomes. AMA President Danielle McMullen said a GP-led collaborative model, better funding, stronger digital systems and improved workforce support are needed to ensure aged care residents receive timely, coordinated healthcare.
New First Nations leaders confirmed
INDIGENOUS Business Australia (IBA) has strengthened First Nations and female representation on its board with the appointments of Bronwyn Dodd,
New website for dementia support
EMMA Heming Willis (pictured) has shared the emotional toll of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis with Frontotemporal dementia, telling the International Dementia Conference 2026 that her family received little guidance after the diagnosis, leaving them feeling isolated and uncertain. She launched the Australian support website www.raredementia.com.au, developed by HammondCare, to provide information and support for families living with rare dementias. The initiative also aims to raise awareness that dementia includes many conditions beyond Alzheimer’s disease, including FTD, which affects behaviour, personality and language rather than memory in its early stages.
Jessica Bulger and Krista Dunstan. The appointments bring the board to nine directors, including eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members and a female majority. The new directors bring expertise in banking, governance, Indigenous leadership, corporate affairs and international trade. IBA Chair Darren Godwell said the appointments reflect the organisation’s commitment to Indigenous economic empowerment, while Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy welcomed their leadership and experience.
Facts about higher airfare prices
RESEARCH from Adelaide University has found that rising jet fuel prices do not automatically lead to higher airfares. Published in
nary recruits are assessed based on gender identity for fitness testing, Mr Shelton argued the military should prioritise combat readiness, merit and national security over gender ideology. He also claimed current policies could affect interoperability with the United States under the AUKUS defence partnership.
Pharmacists say they can offer help
TResearch in Transportation Economics, the study shows airfare changes depend on the type of fuel price shock, airline pricing strategies, passenger demand and market competition. While fuel supply disruptions often have little immediate impact on domestic fares, economic growth and oil market uncertainty can affect different ticket classes in different ways. The findings could help shape airline pricing, fuel policy and sustainable aviation planning.
Combat readiness must be a priority
FAMILY First National Director Lyle Shelton has called on the Australian Defence Force to assess personnel according to biological sex rather than affirmed gender. Responding to reports that transgender and non-bi-
HE Pharmacy Guild of Australia says community pharmacies can play a vital role in improving men’s health by providing accessible, early intervention and ongoing care. Australians visit pharmacies every three weeks on average, creating opportunities to identify health issues before they worsen. With three in five men living with a chronic condition, the Guild says pharmacists can help manage physical and mental health concerns. New Movember training will equip pharmacists with the skills to better support men through trusted, community-based care.
Why red meat processors matter
RESEARCH by AMPC and CQUniversity has highlighted the wider social value red meat processors deliver to regional communities through jobs, training, school partnerships and career pathways. The study found these contributions are often undermeasured, despite growing consumer interest in industry transparency and positive impact. Examples include Australian Country Choice’s viewing platforms, which allow visitors to observe operations firsthand, and NH Foods Australia’s paid Schoolies Skills Starter program at Oakey, which has helped 172 students gain workplace skills and launch careers since 2006.
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
What is MyMedicare?
MyMedicare is a free and optional way to tell Medicare who your usual GP and clinic are.
Registering with your regular GP and general practice can help you stay healthier.
Delivering better healthcare
MICHELLE ROWLAND
ONE of the commitments Labor took to the Australian people at the last election was to strengthen Medicare, with a promise to deliver 137 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across the country.
I’m pleased to say we have now delivered on that promise.
With the recent opening of the final Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, every one of the 137 clinics we promised is now open and providing free healthcare to Australians.
These clinics treat urgent but not life-threatening illnesses and injuries, such as minor infections, cuts, sprains and fevers.
They are fully bulk billed, open seven days a week, and require no appointment. All you need is your Medicare card.
More than 3.1 million Australians have used Medicare Urgent Care Clinics since 2023, and with this final clinic, four out of five Australians now live within a 20-minute drive of a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic. Crucially, our Government has ensured these clinics are now a permanent part of Medicare.
Last year, I was proud to open our local Medicare Urgent Care Clinic at Rouse Hill Town Centre. Since then, I have spoken with many locals who have relied on the clinic to access timely treatment, without the need to wait for a GP appointment or travel to an emergency department.
If you have used the Rouse Hill clinic, I welcome
your feedback so we can help ensure these services continue to meet the needs of our community. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with my office.
These clinics are just one part of the Albanese Government’s broader investment in healthcare.
We are making a record investment in public hospitals, including the new Rouse Hill Hospital, now under construction.
We are also making life-changing medicines more affordable by listing additional treatments on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and reducing the maximum cost of PBS
medicines to $25 per script - the lowest they’ve been since 2004.
These investments are about ensuring every Aussie has access to high quality, affordable health care close to home.
This is what strengthening Medicare looks like, and that’s exactly what Labor is delivering.
Michelle Rowland MP is the Federal Member for Greenway and Attorney-General of Australia. If you need assistance with any Federal issue, you can contact Michelle by phone on 02 9671 4780 or by email at Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au
DETAILS OF THEIR LONG-AWAITED AUSTRALIAN TOUR Secret Garden launches Inspiration Forest
ACCLAIMED Norwegian-Irish musical duo Secret Garden has partnered with environmental charity Greening Australia to launch the Secret Garden Inspiration Forest, a new initiative combining the healing power of music with the restorative benefits of nature.
Announced on World Environment Day (5 June 2026), the partnership aims to inspire Australians to embrace environmental restoration, gratitude and community wellbeing through a shared vision of hope, connection and renewal.
The Inspiration Forest is founded on the belief that "music can heal people, while nature can heal the earth." Organisers hope the initiative will encourage Australians to recognise that meaningful change can begin with something as simple as a song, a tree or an act of gratitude.
For more than 30 years, Secret Garden has captivated audiences around the world with timeless compositions including You Raise Me Up, Song From A Secret Garden, The Promise, Nocturne and Sometimes When It Rains. Their music has become synonymous with hope, reflection and emotional healing, values that align closely with Greening Australia's mission to restore landscapes and strengthen communities. The launch coincides with Secret
Garden's first Australian tour in 22 years, with audiences invited to experience not only an evening of music but also become part of a broader movement celebrating environmental stewardship and personal reflection.
Benny Wang, Director of Wise N Rise Pty Ltd and Australian presenter of the tour, said the collaboration grew
from a shared commitment to making a positive difference.
"Secret Garden's music has always been about hope, healing and human connection. When we began speaking with Greening Australia, we realised we shared a common vision. Music has the power to heal people, and nature has the power to heal landscapes.
“The Inspiration Forest brings these two ideas together in a way that can create lasting impact beyond the concert hall," he said.
Greening Australia's Senior Lead –Marketing and Communications, Dominic de Stefani, said the organisation was pleased to support initiatives that encourage Australians to connect with nature and take positive environmental action.
The Inspiration Forest also complements the national Who Raised You Up? gratitude campaign, inspired by the global hit You Raise Me Up, encouraging people to reflect on the individuals, places and experiences that have shaped their lives.
Australian Tour Dates. Secret Garden: Live in Australia 2026 will visit five capital cities:
• Perth: Friday, 6 November.
• Sydney: Sunday, 8 November.
• Melbourne: Friday, 13 November.
• Adelaide: Saturday, 14 November.
• Brisbane: Sunday, 15 November. The Australian tour is presented with the honorary support of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Canberra. Tickets are now on sale through authorised ticketing outlets. Fans are encouraged to book early, with strong demand expected for the duo's first Australian performances in more than two decades.
ALIBI AWARDS GO REGIONAL IN 2026 It’s about women being seen
KYLIE KING
THIS year marks a huge milestone for the Australian Ladies in Business Initiative.
Not only are we celebrating five years of the ALIBI Awards, but for the very first time, we are taking our Awards Night regional, with Orange, NSW hosting this year’s event.
This wasn’t a decision I made lightly. For a long time, I’ve believed regional communities deserve more opportunities to host major events, attract visitors and showcase what they have to offer.
Too often, large-scale business events are centred around metropolitan areas and while there’s nothing wrong with that, I think regional Australia deserves its moment too.
I wanted 2026 to be different for us.
The ALIBI Awards has grown into a national platform celebrating women in business from every stage of the journey. We have entrants, finalists, sponsors and community members from all across Australia - not just Sydney or the major cities.
So the question became… why not go regional?
Why not create an event that not only celebrates women in business, but also brings real economic impact to a
regional community?
By taking the Awards to Orange, we’re creating opportunities beyond one evening of celebration. We’re bringing visitors into the region who will stay in local accommodation, dine at local restaurants, support local businesses and experience everything Orange has to offer.
That matters. But for me, this move is about more than economics. It’s also about recognition. Some of the most incredible
businesswomen I’ve met are based in regional communities. They are innovative, resilient, resourceful and deeply connected to the communities they serve.
Yet many of them operate with less visibility and fewer opportunities than their metro counterparts.
That needs to change. I want regional women in business to feel seen. I want them to know their stories matter.
And I want more people to
recognise that incredible businesses are being built everywhere - not just in city centres.
The ALIBI Awards have never simply been about trophies.
They’re about celebrating courage, growth, impact and the journey behind the business.
Taking the Awards regional feels like the natural next step in that journey.
It reflects what ALIBI stands forcommunity, connection, courage and creating opportunities for women in business no matter where they are located.
I’m incredibly excited for Orange to host this special milestone year and to welcome women in business from across Australia this October.
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
The Blacktown News is the media partner for the ALIBI Awards.
Travel
Emma Wilson
VISIT MANLY THIS WINTER
Invigorating walks, delightful dining
CATCH the Parramatta River Ferry (F3) from Parramatta Wharf to Circular Quay, a scenic journey of approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. At Circular Quay, transfer to the Manly Ferry from Wharf 2 or 3 for the 20–30 minutecrossing to Manly Wharf. Services operate regularly throughout the day, and the total journey takes around two hours, depending on your connection. Use an Opal card or contactless credit/debit card to tap on and off for both ferry services, making it a simple, car-free way to reach Manly.
The Gopher Brings Old-World Glamour To Manly. Jo and Ro tell us about the transformed iconic late night venue from Old Manly Boatshed site to the Gopher.
There is something delicious about walking down a dark timber staircase and not being entirely sure what you are about to find.
We left the lights of Manly Corso behind, descended past dark brown timber panelling and arrived in a room that felt like a friendly gentleman’s club with a pint of Guinness in hand and margaritas to boot.
Heavy exposed iron beams run across the ceiling. Inviting leather bench seats. Wool flannel stool covers and dark carpet alongside timber floors. The fit-out is old-world cigar-bar feel, it is warm and full of character.
At 6pm on a Friday night, the room was lively, a few football fans still enjoying themselves. Bob Marley playing in the background. Classic margarita in hand.
A couple of hours later, the crowd
transitions into a good mix of ages, locals, groups, couples and people settling in for the evening.
The atmosphere is one of The Gopher’s strongest cards. It has energy
U2, INXS, Elton John. The kind
of soundtrack that keeps the room
humming. Some of the crowd swayed. Most didn’t miss a belted-out version of Blister in the Sun
Thanks to a lovely maître d’ whose watchful eye scanned the room constantly, we were served some of the menu’s favourite dishes and after a couple of rounds of food, our bellies were elegantly full.
There was a Snowy Mountain trout dip with crisp bread that was an instant hit to a hungry mouth: smoky, salty, moreish and exactly the sort of thing you want in the middle of a table.
The spicy sausage roll was a standout - a little curry warmth running through it and pepper seeds scattered over the top. Rich, comforting and unapologetically tasty.
An Irish favourite, scotched egg in deep fried bread, fisherman’s pie with mash that felt properly hearty and the dish that lingered, the slow-cooked lamb medallions on mash. It fell apart on the fork and again in the mouth, soft, generous and deeply satisfying.
The Gopher is not trying to be a polished fine-diner or another airy coastal venue. Its appeal is in the descent, the darkness, the leather, the noise, the nostalgia and the feeling that you have stumbled into somewhere with a bit of pulse. We left with full bellies, music ringing in our ears, and the sense that Manly has gained something it needed, a lively late-night room with grit, charm and proper personality.
The Gopher is known for its live music program, with performances on most evenings and later sessions on Fridays and Saturdays. So if you're planning a weekend visit from Parramatta, it's an ideal stop for dinner and drinks before catching an evening ferry back to Circular Quay (and then a train to Parramatta if you're staying later than the last Parramatta River ferry).
Where to Stay
Collection - Overlooking Manly Beach, this premium beachfront hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool and easy access to The Corso and coastal walks.
• Peppers Manly Beach - Spacious apartment-style accommodation just moments from the sand, ideal for families and longer beach escapes.
• The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach –Contemporary studios and apartments opposite the beach, with pools and an unbeatable location near cafés, restaurants and Manly Wharf.
• Stay at Hotel Steyne - Boutique rooms above one of Manly's most iconic pubs, perfect for travellers wanting to stay in the heart of the action.
Shelly Beach Walk. The Shelly Beach Walk begins at Manly Surf Club, at the southern end of Manly Beach, and wraps gently around the coastline to Shelly Beach. Flat, easy and suitable for all ages, this popular 15-minute stroll delivers rock pools, glistening ocean views and plenty of salty air. While it can get busy, there is room for all. When you reach Shelly Beach, climb the headland for a beautiful lookout across the Northern Beaches, or settle in for coffee by the water. It is stunning at sunrise, golden in the afternoon and always full of life. Catch the Manly ferry from Circular Quay and make it a perfect half-day coastal escape. This is a wheelchair friendly walk.
The Spit to Manly Walk. Beginning
harbour walk winds through bushland, secluded beaches and Sydney Harbour National Park before finishing at vibrant Manly Wharf. Along the way you'll discover Aboriginal rock engravings, tranquil coves, native wildlife and spectacular harbour lookouts, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim or picnic. Allow around three to four hours to complete the walk at a relaxed pace, making it one of Sydney's most rewarding coastal experiences. It follows natural and manmade stairs and hills and is not wheelchair friendly. Manly to Freshwater Beach Walk Starting at Manly Surf Club, this 2km coastal walk follows the oceanfront north along Manly Beach before continuing to Freshwater Beach, where Australian surfing history began. The paved pathway offers uninterrupted ocean views, ocean pools, cafés and grassy picnic spots, making it ideal for families, casual walkers and anyone wanting a shorter seaside escape. Allow around 30-40 minutes one way, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee, swim or simply soak up the relaxed Northern Beaches atmosphere. Please note the Manly to Freshwater section of the walk is uphill and follows paved stairs. It is not good for wheelchair access.
without feeling chaotic. The acoustic solo session on stage leans into classics. Think
• Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery
beneath Spit Bridge, this iconic 10km
with Emma Wilson
MT BULLER IS CHEAPER THAN MANY Overseas snow holiday options
BY RHYLLA MORGAN, PHOTOS BY TONY HARRINGTON
IF you’ve dreamed of escaping to the alps for fresh snow, indulgent hot chocolate and the tinkle of sleigh bells on huskies – the good news is you can experience all of this with a one hour flight to Melbourne and a beautiful 3-hour drive through wine country.
Mt Buller is the most accessible alpine resort in Australia, and you don’t need a visa or jetlag to feel like you’ve had an international holiday.
There are also some savvy ways to get a mountain of value from your snow dollar – with a little planning and know-how.
Embrace off-peak. The snow season starts in June and stretches into early October, so look for deals in early winter and savings in Spring – which also has the added bonus of longer and sunnier days. Hello Aperol spritz on the balcony and getting a goggle tan!
Don’t forget mid-week which is consistently less busy and when you can find accommodation and lift passes significantly less expensive than weekends. At Mt Buller many accommodation venues offer Kids Stay Free deals in June and September.
Go online, and get in early. Like everything nowadays, it pays to plan ahead to snap up lift passes, accommodation and lock in lessons before you travel. Mt Buller has skiing for adults available from just $121 and kids (that’s all the way up to 18 years old at Mt Buller) can ski from just $73 a day.
Never skied before? Check out a First Timer lesson for adults from just $130. Planning to ski for a week? Check out the 6 Day Any Day pass which is terrific value and valid any day of the season.
Getting there. Mt Buller is a 3-hour easy drive from Melbourne and if you’d rather skip the driving there are even coach connections direct from the airport to the slopes. Travelling with friends? Jump in a minivan and car-pool to keep the fuel down and give you someone to play ‘I Spy’ with on the drive up.
Ways to stay. Mt Buller has over 8,000 beds all right up in a pretty alpine village. Most are just a short stroll to the ski slopes and the accessible village has free shuttle buses rolling around to make getting to and fro easy on sometimes weary ski legs!
You’ll find something for different budgets with luxe apartments, cosy hotels and affordable lodge accommodation options with shared facilities and usually a games room for the kids.
Australian skiing was built on the lodge culture which is still going strong – there is something great about sharing a huge pot of spaghetti around a long table, open fires and wild rounds of Uno before piling into bunk beds. Nights to remember. One of the magic parts of winter on Mt Buller are the Twilight sessionsv when dress ups and glow sticks are encouraged and you
lunches and a drink with a (seriously
village from 5 – 8.30pm on Wednesday and Saturday nights in July and August for just $37.
All the other things. Skiing and snowboarding is just part of a snow holiday so you’ll want to make time to fit in all the other activities on offer. Catch a movie at the cinema (yes, they have a popcorn machine), meet the huskies and go on a sled dog ride, bounce in the AirZone and scramble up the indoor climbing walls, book in a spa day at Breathtaker on High, look out for winter Olympians training in the resort, book in your own professional photo shoot, hit the shops with everything from ski stuff, fashion, souvenirs, art and even a fully stocked supermarket and discover the adventure of a snowshoe tour to catch the sunrise.
Eat a mountain of delicious food. Mt Buller has around 30+ places to warm up and savour delicious winter fare. You’ll be ready for a piping hot pasta, a crisp schnitzel or a mouthwatering degustation menu at one of the fine dining spots after a day on the slopes. There are also great spots on and off the slopes for long
stunning) view.
Other tips. if you are not a regular snow traveller ask around and borrow some gear from friends for the first trip and then buy if you get the bug. Borrow outerwear for your little ones, they’ll be out of it next year. Marketplace is your
friend for finding bargains and support your local shops who often have great gear on sale.
Watch the forecast in late season. Spring savings and deals are a thing and if there is late season snowfall you could score a last-minute trip with fresh snow for a serious saving.
Research, research, research. Book direct and bundle it all so there are no surprises. Only buy lift passes direct from Mt Buller as there are online scams. If it’s a lot cheaper it’s probably not real.
Don’t skimp on lessons – one of the best investments for beginners to start safely and enjoy the experience.
FLY – Tullamarine Airport has the best connections with coach services available although Avalon is not much further if you self-drive.
DRIVE – just 3 hours will have you seeing snow from Melbourne, although allow longer if you want to stop for coffees, chocolate tasting and more along the way.
can slide on Bourke Street run into the
with Emma Wilson
RELAXING VOCO GOSFORD IS More than a place to stay
SINCE opening, the new Voco Gosford has attracted plenty of attention. Kerri and husband Brett recently checked in for a night to experience it for themselves.
Rooms With a View
One of the first things we noticed from our room on the ninth floor was the outlook towards the waterfront and nearby Polytec Stadium. Wrap-around windows and a private balcony provided a unique perspective of Gosford.
The room itself felt warm and inviting, with modern furnishings, a comfortable king-sized bed and contemporary bathroom. A stylish tea and coffee station and calming colour palette created a space that was easy to settle in.
Key features
• Waterfront views.
• Private balcony.
• King-sized bed.
• Contemporary bathroom.
• Tea and coffee station.
Rooftop Dining at Astra
Just before sunset, we made our way to Astra on the 28th floor. The Japanese-inspired rooftop venue is one of the hotel’s standout features, with floor-toceiling windows overlooking Brisbane Water and the surrounding coastline.
Among the highlights from the menu was the Ora King Salmon, while the Fleur De Lotus was a standout from the signature cocktail list. For something a little different, The Gulf of Brisbane — Astra’s vibrant blue take on a margarita—pays tribute to the region and was as visually striking as it was enjoyable to drink.
Italian comfort at Paolo’s Dinner followed at Paolo’s Pizzeria on the ground floor. In contrast to Astra’s rooftop atmosphere, Paolo’s offers a relaxed, casual dining experience.
We started with Mushroom Arancini before moving on to Squid Ink Fettuccine with king prawns and Pappardelle with slow-cooked Wagyu brisket, porcini ragu and gremolata. Weekly specials included the Negroni di Paolo cocktail and a bottle of Riff Ramato Pinot Grigio from Italy’s
giving guests several options without needing to leave the hotel.
Breakfast done well
Breakfast at Saltfire Buffet featured an impressive selection of cold items, including prosciutto, smoked salmon, cheeses, fresh fruit and continental favourites. There was also a generous selection of pastries,
cereals and hot breakfast dishes, with eggs cooked to order.
Relax and recharge
Before checking out, we spent time at the fifthfloor pool, heated to 23 degrees and overlooking the Gosford waterfront. With in-pool seating, a beachstyle entry and plenty of lounge chairs, it’s an inviting space to unwind. The fifth floor is also home to the hotel’s gym and sauna.
Key features
• Heated outdoor pool.
• Sauna.
• Gym.
• Multiple dining venues.
• Rooftop bar.
• Waterfront location.
The verdict
What remained most memorable about our stay was not just the quality of the facilities, but the consistency of the service.
From check-in to breakfast, every staff member we encountered was friendly, professional and genuinely focused on making guests feel welcome. Combined with excellent dining, comfortable accommodation and impressive views, voco Gosford delivers an enjoyable stay that we’d happily recommend.
Visit: www.thearchibald.com.au
Winter is perfect time to rediscover Bondi
EMMA WILSON, CBN TRAVEL EDITOR
ITHOUGHT Bondi had no surprises left for me. I’m a Sydneysider, I’ve visited Bondi many times in my life and did a 6 month stint living in Bondi's backstreets back in my twenties.
Staying at Adina Bondi confirmed to me that you can think you know a place, but you can get to know it differently. Tucked discreetly among locals’ haunts in Hall Street, think yoga studios, surf art, and cozy eateries, this was Bondi through a resident’s lens. Adina’s pastel exterior gave way to a warm, timber-toned foyer, with a lap pool and jacuzzi beyond and a lovely garden, ready to laze the afternoon away. The two bedroom suite for my family felt like a home for beach-dwellers and I was bummed I wasn’t throwing a barbecue out on the roomy verandah, because it was ripe for it with the space, the outdoor table and the settee and cushions. The bedrooms are delightful with modern ensuites, living up to Adina’s vision for
stylish relaxed living.
A holiday at Bondi deserves a week, the closest holiday style I've experienced is previous trips to Noosa, in that you could duck and weave into dozens of little boutiques, grab an ice cream, browse for books or jump on a bicycle. This is without even hitting the
iconic main strip facing the ocean.
We enjoyed Sicilian fare for dinner, but the dining choices are endless. Dotted in this local area are local bars full of residents socialising, swapping stories and making life plans.
In the morning, we donned running shoes with our daughter and ran to Tamarama and back, stopping constantly to point out dolphins and take photos of the ocean, moody and beautiful.
Breakfast called for a full Aussie breakfast at Bills, with fresh orange juices and coffees. An unhurried casual breakfast, post-exercise is one of life’s finest pleasures.
Had we known the blueberry pancakes had a reputation of their own, we would have tried them, but we already promised ourselves to return to Bondi again, so Blueberries it will be.
For eClub members please go here www.tfehotels.com/en/ for some amazing winter deals.
Venezie region.
While exploring the property, we also discovered additional dining venues, including Archies,
The Death of Robin Hood - REVIEW
JACOB RICHARDSON
MOODY, compelling and absolutely gorgeous to watch (and pretty brutal in equal measure), Sarnoski has crafted a deeply absorbing film that needs to be seen on the big screen.
Robin Hood (Hugh Jackman) is grappling with the inner scars of his past life - the scars of crime, murder and more. But when he agrees to help Little John (Bill Skarsgard) rescue his daughter, he winds up gravely injured in a battle he thought would be his last.
While much of him longed for that glorious death in battle, he instead finds himself in the hands of Sister Brigid (Jodie Comer) who nurses him back to health, and perhaps gives him another chance at finding a death befitting the great Robin Hood.
Michael Sarnoski’s The Death of Robin Hood isn’t going to be for everyone. It’s a subtle, sometimes wordless piece, that dives in on the visuals and introspection more so than the blood, guts and swashbuckling gore of legend. But it’s all the better for it.
The film opens on a desolate scene. A young woman, traipsing across an inhospitable landscape, in search of a man who murdered her kin.
Around the only fire for miles, she
and Robin have a double meaning laden back and forth, and it leads to a brutal murder.
The screen itself seems cold with the depiction of the frosty landscape; the music slim but pulsating. I
t’s a perfect encapsulation of everything this movie is. It doesn’t take the time to baby you through the brutality of its action, or the inner monologue of its lead character. It shows you what
it can, what it wants to, and lets you figure out the rest.
Across the board, the cast is nothing short of spectacular. Bill Skarsgard is unrecognizable as Little John. Jodie Comer plays a saintly healer with a broken heart with nuance and humanity that never leaves her even in anger.
Murray Bartlett brings a wealth of pain, understanding and hope to his performance as a Leper - even with
only his eyes visible. But they all pale in comparison to Hugh Jackman, who has never been better.
The incomparable lined face of the man reveals deep wells of thought and emotion, alongside the occasional flick of his eyes, that do more to make this story work than any additional dialogue ever could.
But that’s not to say this is a soft film. This is a lot more brutal than you might be expecting. The action in the first half of this film is completely devastating; Sarnoski doesn’t shy away from what an actual fight to the death looks like.
And it will have you wincing and wanting more in equal measure. And its visual aplomb is matched by the incredible cinematography, and the gorgeous costume and set design.
Ultimately, the film ends with a whimper more than bang, but in that way it perfectly mirrors Robin’s own journey. Complex, nuanced, heart pumping and breaking in equal measure, this is a feast for the eyes and soul.
The Death of Robin Hood won’t be for everybody. But if you’re a fan of this sort of introspective period piece with stunning cinematography and a compelling lead performance, give it a chance in the dark of a cinema where it can envelope you as it should. FIVE STARS
The Australian Small Business Champion Awards originated in 199 9 as the NSW Small Business Champion of Champion Awards, which were successful in recognising outstanding businesses from NSW. In 2007, the program expanded to recognise the achievements of outstanding small businesses from across Australia, and the Aus tralian Small Business Champions Awards program was born. Developed and managed by Pre cedent Productions the Australian Small Business Champions Awards have grown into the flagship program recognising Australian Small Business excellence. Community Bro adcast Network (CBN) is a proud media partner of this prestigious event and produced th e souvenir magazine.
