HILLS PETITION CLOSES OFF
SEXTENDING
HAMBLEDON RD TO TALLAWONG
SAVERS OPENS AT MARSDEN PARK
TOP VOLUNTEER
T JOHN Ambulance first aid logistics officer Richard Bernecic from Quakers Hill has been named the 2025 Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year, for his work keeping the community safe and healthy across the region. Mr Bernecic was recognised as part of the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering to help promote and support volunteering across NSW. They are now in their 19th year and celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from a diverse range of organisations across the state. More: page 7.
WEXPO returns in 2025 at a new home
Wednesday, October 22
Winner, Richard Bernecic, centre.
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ISSUE 3 | September 2025
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Savers opens Marsden Park store
NOTH WEST Sydney’s secondhand shopping scene is about to get even bigger, with iconic global thrift retailer Savers® opening in Marsden Park.
The Marsden Park Thrift Superstore will open on August 21. Anchoring a brand-new retail development on Richmond Road, the store sits alongside local favourites El Jannah and Snap Fitness. Just minutes from Ikea and Costco, it’s ideally located to serve one of Sydney’s fastest-growing family communities.
The new store will offer thousands of unique items across clothing, homewares, accessories and more, the openings will deliver even more sustainable and affordable shopping options to Sydneysiders. Committed to making secondhand affordable and accessible, most items will be priced under $10 (as averaged across all categories).
Michael Fisher, Managing Director at Savers Australia, said the brand’s continued growth in NSW reflects a broader shift in how Australians are choosing to shop.
“We’re thrilled to be expanding our Thrift Proud® movement in Sydney, giving more people the oppor-
tunity to shop consciously, access affordable quality goods, and keep reusable items out of landfill,” said Mr Fisher.
The new store will mark the retailer's fifth Sydney location and come just over one year after its expansion into the NSW market.
“Entering New South Wales last year was a significant step for Savers, and the response from Sydney’s
Tthrift shoppers has been incredibly encouraging,” Mr Fisher added.
In keeping with Savers’ mission to make secondhand second nature, the new stores will contribute to the more than 9.1 million kilograms of reusable items diverted from landfills by the brand’s Australian network each year. Shopping secondhand also conserves water, reduces pollution, and minimises energy consumption, making it a simple yet impactful way for consumers to be part of the sustainable solution.
Savers also plays a vital role in supporting local communities through its not-for-profit partnerships. As a for-profit retailer, Savers purchases donated goods from its charity partners, helping fund critical community programs and services. Over the past five years (FY2020–2024), the brand has paid over $20M to its Australian not-for-profit partners.
The opening of the Marsden Park store will also create new job opportunities for locals who are passionate about sustainability, retail, and helping extend the life of quality goods.
Visit: www.savers.com.au.
Hills petition closes off
HE Hills Shire Council’s petition for better roads, more schools and more sports fields came to a close on September 5 after more than 20,000 concerned residents signed up. Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said: “Thanks to
the more than 20,000 concerned locals and stakeholders who signed the petition, “During the campaign, the following was announced – a $220M upgrade for Windsor Road, funding for infrastructure and a pop-up school for Box Hill, and more parking
for Kellyville Metro on a temporary basis. “While there’s more we need the Government to commit to, including the funding for 45 road upgrades and 40 sports fields as well as the construction of 14 new schools for The Hills, our campaign has hit a nerve.
“The Government is keen to herald the fact that they’re adding 600 classrooms across The Hills and North West Sydney but ask any parent at one of our public schools and they’ll tell you that’s nowhere near enough.” Visit: www.fairerhillsfuture.com.au
Construction begins on school upgrade
CONSTRUCTION is underway on a major upgrade at Rouse Hill High School, as part of the NSW Government’s work to rebuild public education and address enrolment demand in the growing North West region.
The multi-million-dollar upgrade includes a new two-storey building with 11 modern classrooms and two science labs, increasing the school’s capacity from 960 to 1200 students.
The upgrade to Rouse Hill High School is set to be complete and open to students and staff on Day 1, Term 1, 2027.
The upgrade forms part of the Government’s investment in public education, which is delivering a total of seven new and upgraded schools across the North West region.
The Government has also confirmed the site currently housing the Box Hill temporary schools has been acquired for a future permanent public school and preschool.
This will be in addition to the two new public primary schools, two new public preschools and a new high school currently being delivered in Box Hill and Gables, the first public schools
to be built in the suburbs.
The Minns Labor Government's 2025-26 Budget delivers a record $9B for school infrastructure across NSW, including $3.9B for new and upgraded schools in Western Sydney.
HIn addition, the Government is investing in almost 600 new permanent classrooms through new and upgraded schools in Sydney’s North West, with 240 classrooms in the Hills Shire alone, creating space for thousands more students across the community.
Hawkesbury pump-out unclear
AWEKSBURY residents relying on septic and sullage pump-out systems say they have been left without answers as Council presses ahead with plans to sell the city’s wastewater assets to Sydney Water. The proposed $171M trans-
fer—currently under discussion with the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) would see Sydney Water take over the McGraths Hill and South Windsor sewage treatment plants, along with the broader sewer network. But for the
hundreds of households in rural and semi-rural pockets of Hawkesbury such as Bowen Mountain and Kurrajong Heights who aren’t connected to the sewer and rely on fortnightly tank pump-outs, the future is far from clear. Currently, Hawkesbury
City Council manages pump-out services under a regulated schedule. Residents have questioned the necessity of fortnightly collections when tanks are not full, but they also recognize the value of a reliable, council-run service at a fixed price.
Australia’s leading media voice for Australia’s fastest growing region –Greater Western Sydney.
Western Sydney Express covers the people, projec ts and potential of our dynamic region.
Read the digital edition 24/7 and st stay up to date with the issues that matter in your area.
Artist impression of the new school.
Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.
Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.
You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money.
• Spacious, designer interiors
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Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.
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$10M TO EXTEND HAMBLEDON ROAD TO TALLAWONG Funds allocated to acquire land
WARREN KIRBY
FOR too long, families in North West
Sydney have carried the burden of rapid housing growth without the infrastructure to match.
For local families, this means less time stuck in traffic and more time to-gether at home.”
The former Liberal Government pushed thousands of new homes into our community but failed to deliver the roads, schools, and essential services local families need.
The failure to complete Hambledon Road into Tallawong is one of the clearest examples of that neglect.
That’s why I am proud the Minns Labor Government has committed $10M to acquire the land needed to finally extend Hambledon Road into Tallawong.
This is the first concrete step to fixing the missing link, giving Tallawong residents the direct connection to Schofields Road they should have had
years ago.
For local families, this means less time stuck in traffic and more time together at home.
This investment is part of Labor’s broader plan to
build better roads for the North West.
Together with the Federal Labor Government, we are funding upgrades that will make a real difference for our community: critical
Find a local business that comes to you in person or remotely. From dentists to your door, removalists, trades, telehealth, food and more
road infrastructure around the future Rouse Hill Hospital, upgrades along the Richmond Road Corridor, the duplication and future connection of Townson Road and Burdekin
Road in Schofields and long-overdue upgrades to Bandon Road and Garfield Road East and West.
The North West has done its bit and had its fair share of housing growth. This $10M investment is only the beginning, but it represents a decisive break from the inaction of the past.
I will keep working with Premier Chris Minns to ensure families across the North West get the roads and services they deserve.
Stay up-to-date and register for updates at warrenkirby.au/buildingbetter-roads
Warren Kirby
MP is NSW Member for Riverstone. Visit www. warrenkirby. au. The North West News is available via print and digital format and is published monthly. Visit www. thenorthwestnews. au Send us your feedback info@thenorthwestnews.au
MEETING CRISIS WITH COMPASSION Volunteers on a mission to help Quakers Hill first aider named 2025
Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the
Year
ST JOHN Ambulance first aid logistics officer Richard Bernecic form Quakers Hill has been named the 2025 Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year, for his work keeping the community safe and healthy across the region.
Mr Bernecic was recognised recently at St Marys Band Club as part of the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering to help promote and support volunteering across NSW.
They are now in their 19th year and celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from a diverse range of organisations across the state.
Recipients of other individual and team awards were also announced, including the inaugural Emergency Volunteer of the Year:
Outer Western Sydney Young Volunteers of the Year: Mikaylah Bater from Marayong and Hannah Cooper from Blacktown.
Joint award winners Mikaylah and Hannah began volunteering together at Riding for the Disabled Tall Timbers as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards program. They have continued to volunteer on a weekly basis as part of a program which provides a safe and supportive way for people living with disability to engage with their community and build new skills through horse riding.
Outer Western Sydney Adult Volunteer of the Year: Richard Bernecic from Quakers Hill.
Richard has given more than 2,000 hours of his time as a logistics officer and mentor to new volunteers at the State Operations and Blacktown Divisions of St John Ambulance. He helps prepare, maintain, and transport essential operational equipment, uniforms and medical kits for first aid responders at events and emergency incidents across Western Sydney and NSW.
Outer Western Sydney Senior Volunteer of the Year: Helen Knobbs from Riverstone.
Helen has volunteered every week for the past 35 years at the Hawkesbury Community Kitch-
en, helping to prepare, cook and serve meals to the homeless and people in need throughout the region. She has also served on the organisation’s board for the past decade and supported and mentored new volunteers and student volunteers undertaking their Duke of Edinburgh awards.
Outer Western Sydney Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Michael Edmonds from Cranebrook.
Michael’s volunteer work with the NSW Rural Fire Service is crucial to the safety and training of emergency service volunteers throughout the region. His meticulous methods and mentoring as an Equipment and Training Officer are matched by his commitment to emergency response to fires and road accidents, as well as public safety education for the wider community.
Outer Western Sydney Volunteer Team of the Year: Street Side MedicsBlacktown Volunteer Team.
The 26 members of the Blacktown Street Side Medics include nurses, paramedics, GPs, specialists and allied
health professionals who give their time each week, providing care for our most vulnerable people. Their streetbased healthcare delivery includes everything from basic check-ups and prescriptions to chronic disease management and minor procedures, across the region. The impact of their volunteering is immense, with many of their patients having gone without treatment for years. Their care improves the health of people without a home and is often a first step to other life-changing support.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said in difficult times, volunteers often come forward to meet a crisis with compassion.
“Volunteers are the quiet force, whether helping ease cost of living pressures, supporting those in crisis or responding on the front line of floods, fires and emergencies,” Ms Rygate said.
“Their dedication isn’t just admirable; it underpins a more resilient and compassionate society.
“These exceptional individuals give selflessly - often while juggling careers, study, and family life - yet they still choose to show up for others when it matters most.”
Helen Knobbs, right.
Mikaylah Bater from Marayong and Hannah Cooper from Blacktown.
Education for business and life success, delivered from real-world experience...
WEXPO is Western Sydney’s premier business expo - connecting professionals, entrepreneurs, managers and industry leaders through networking, exhibitors and growth opportunities.
WEXPO presenters and panels are selected for their real world experience and suspect matter expertise. You can reserve your FREE space at any of our 2025 panels or speakers via the QR codes.
AI in Action: Hype, Help or Hindrance?
AI is everywhere, but is it helping your business?
In this candid, no-fluff panel, four experts explore how small and midsize businesses can cut through the noise to make AI understandable, effective, and safe. From real-world use cases to navigating vendor hype, we’ll cover what makes AI worth the
Kate Dodd
Founder and Director Intent Strategy
Careen Matthews Humaneer
investment, when it adds complexity, and how to approach it without overhauling everything overnight. Expect grounded insights, practical tools for decision-making, and a clear-eyed look at AI’s possibilities and limitations in today’s business context. Panelists include:
WEXPO Panel: 9.30am- 10.15am
Olga Papageorgiou
Partner Oliver Wight Asia Pacific
John-Paul Costales
Founder Be Useful
How Western Sydney changed the World
Bernie Fehon managing partner at Fehon Strategy & Design is the founder of the Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Bernie will present on How Western Sydney Changed The World. He’ll share his journey of starting and growing one the world’s most successful charity movements – The CEO Sleepout - from Merrylands in Western Sydney some 20 years ago. On one of the coldest nights of the year, business, community, and government leaders sleep outdoors to experience a fraction of what
people without secure housing endure nightly. Participants commit to raising a minimum amount to support Vinnies’ services for those at risk of or experiencing homelessness. In 2025, the CEO Sleepout marked its 20th anniversary, raising over $8.3M nationally, with $2.5M contributed by NSW alone. Bernie’s concept has been adapted in many places throughout the world.
WEXPO Presentation: 10.30am- 11.15am
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
CashNO to CashFLOW – Business Growth and Performance Strategies
Too many business owners get stuck chasing revenue, without building the systems and structures that create profitable, sustainable, and saleable business assets. This session reframes that mindset— shifting the focus away from vanity metrics and profit-killing habits, toward active asset building and strategic business management. Absolutely zero talk about keeping the tax man happy or learning to love your numbers. It’s all about simple, fresh ideas you can use to design a business that grows
Farid Zaki Director ATP Accounting & Taxation Professionals
and performs financially - not one that survives on sheer passion and grit, leaving nothing in the tank, or in the bank. In this dynamic panel our experts will unpack how strong business process design, active performance visibility, good management and the right financial structure can turn any business into a valuable, scalable asset. Expect easy and practical insights, a few laughs, actionable strategies, zero death by spreadsheet, and a fresh take on what it really means to grow a business. Panelists include:
Tina Clark CEO / Finance Broker Auscorp
Finance
WEXPO Presentation: 11.30am- 12.15am
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Cate Kemp CEO/ Financial and Performance Coach, The Control Room
Bernie Fehon OAM
Trademark Expert shares Insider Tips for Success
As the general manager of Applied Marks, Binh Rey sure knows trademarks. When you protect your brand, you protect your future business value. That’s why trademarks and brand protection is not restricted to big or multi-national companies. Businesses of all sizes have the right to operate with security and without fear of infringement. With over 15 years of marketing industry
experience, 12 years of trademark industry experience, and over an impressive 1,500 trademarks filed, Binh is perfectly positioned to inform businesses of all sizes about trademark value and share insider details around the processes involved in securing your trademark.
WEXPO Presentation: 12.30am- 1.00pm
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Creating Social and Digital Marketing ROI in 2025
Presented by award-winning social media and digital marketing expert, George Hawwa from global social media agency, Attention Experts this session covers the fundamental changes that have developed that every marketer/business owner needs to know to perform and create ROI in their campaigns. From understanding the latest in algorithms, to the basic marketing formulas to execute a successful campaign, to creating ample opportunity for your organization, this workshop will also ensure that you are covered when it comes to understanding the major metrics to track and knowing what to report.
Also, being able to develop out of the box thinking not just with social media but also EDM, Google Ads and SEO. George is the founder and owner of global social media & digital agency Attention Experts, which was started in 2016 is today Australia’s most highly rated and awarded social media agency. He has worked on social media strategy, digital strategy, management and analysis across over 30 different industries with companies across the world.
WEXPO Presentation: 1.15pm- 2.00pm
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Binh Rey Trademark Expert
George Hawwa Attention Experts
The Fixers: From Stress to Strategy in Cash Flow, Tax Debt & Finance
When cash dries up, the right support can keep the doors open — or not. Most business owners only look at cash flow once the ATO comes knocking, the account dips, or creditors start chasing. By then, you’re reacting — not planning. At WEXPO 2025, we’re flipping that script. Join a practical, solutionfocused panel featuring three finance specialists who tackle business pressure daily — from tax debt and cash flow gaps to funding missteps.
Meet the Panel
Michael Moon Tax Debt Negotiator, Tax Assure
What You’ll Learn:
• How to take control of cash flow before it breaks.
• What most businesses get wrong about ATO debt — and how to avoid costly mistakes.
• How to reduce ATO debt (not just defer it).
• Why the wrong finance solution can make things worse.
• What works when cash is tight and pressure is rising. Come with questions. Leave with strategies you can use.
Renati Barel Finance Specialist, World Class Finance
WEXPO Panel: 2.15pm- 3.00pm
Jason Cantore Associate Director, Murchisons
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Grow Your Business with Smart Marketing and Grants
This panel delves into what works and what doesn’t in the world of modern marketing and advertising. Real strategies, real results — marketing that connect with your chosen community. Our panel will explore the
Sheila Cabacungan
Partnership expert, SWR 99.9 FM
Laura Hall Co-founder, Helio
value and effectiveness of social media, SEO traditional advertising and relationship driven campaigns in the context of being competitive and growing a strong and sustainable business. Panelists include:
WEXPO Panel: 3.15pm- 4.00pm
Christine Artis Director of the Funding and Grants Collective
Pulkit Agrawal
SEO Director and Founder of UR Digital
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
HOW A WESTERN SYDNEY SLEEPOUT CHANGED THE WORLD
One Night. Endless Impact
BY ARTHUR STANLEY*
IT began in Western Sydney 20 years ago and is now a worldwide movement, ensuring homelessness is merely a chapter rather than a whole story in the lives of so many people.
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout has raised almost $110M to help the homeless in Australia since an intrepid first group of business and community leaders joined Bernie Fehon in sleeping out in the stands of Stadium Australia in 2006.
Across the Blacktown LGA alone Vinnies supported 4,000 people and provided $230,000 in financial and material assistance, almost half coming in the form of housing assistance in the last financial year.
So inspiring has the movement become, the CEO Sleepout has been embraced by charities around the globe as a powerful and unique way to raise funds and awareness about the plight of those living without shelter, often because of severe personal trauma or unforeseen circumstances.
Bernie Fehon, OAM, a business powerhouse who is Managing Di rector at Fehon Strategy & Design and the Founder of the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, will offer unique insights into the rise of one the world’s most successful charity events as a Keynote Speaker at WEXPO 2025 at the Sydney Showground on October 22.
“The Vinnies CEO Sleepout has changed thousands of lives over the past two decades and contin ues to make a difference in how our communities understand homelessness,” says Fehon.
“It has moved the conversation of homelessness into the board rooms around Australia and indeed the world, and has led to many more of our community leaders making decisions that will assist with one of our society’s biggest challenges.”
Fehon feels it is fitting that he will be discussing the rise and rise of the Vinnies Sleepout at this year’s WEXPO event at Sydney Olympic Park, given the movement started right here 20 years ago.
Leading businesses
The novel idea of asking CEOs of our leading companies to experience what it’s like to sleep rough on the streets of Sydney in the middle of winter came as a result of Fehon being involved in the organising committee for Vinnies fund raising dinners.
“I remembering thinking it was a bit odd organising a banquet for the top end of town in support of people who can’t afford their next meal,” says Fehon.
“So I worked with a small group of people on the concept of the CEO Sleepout, where business and community leaders would seek sponsorship and commit to one night of their lives sleeping outside.
“We have found that when we get 300 or so business leaders together and give them the opportunity to listen first-hand to people who are homeless, a major shift occurs.
“Yes, it’s cold in the middle of winter, even though a good sleeping bag can help. Yes, it’s uncomfortable, but that may mean you wake up a few times during the night and have the opportunity to reflect on what it’s really like to be homeless.
“It’s clearly a very powerful experience for a lot of people who often have the means and the ability to make a difference in society. The CEOs who sign up and get involved with the Vinnies Sleepout all care... but I find that they care a little bit more after they experience it themselves and hear from those on the streets.”
Fehon has personally camped out on all 20 Sydney Vinnies CEO Sleepouts. He’s also slept out on the Nelson Mandela Bridge in Johannesburg, South Africa, and at Lord’s cricket ground in London as part of Sleepout UK, among other local community events.
Lot going on
“Clearly we haven’t changed the word completely – there is a lot going on out there –but I do know we have made a difference in the lives of many thousands of people, some of whom feared they would be homeless forever.”
Homelessness is a crisis that touches millions, yet many misunderstand its reality. It is often not sim-
ply a result of poor choices or lack of effort and often stems from domestic violence, severe personal trauma or unforeseen events.
“I’ve been inspired by young men and women who have told their stories of domestic violence – and equally moved by former business owners who have fallen on hard times and found themselves homeless,” says Fehon.
The smallest acts of kindness can mean the world to people who are vulnerable and the Vinnies CEO Sleepout movement stirs the innate nature of human desire to give back and develop a desire of helping others. It sheds light on this human tragedy and inspires compassion and empathy.
Fehon’s keynote address will be one of many highlights at the upcoming WEXPO event, which has become a leading connector of business and community leaders in its first three years.
Arthur Stanley is a senior journalist and former General Manager of Media & Communications at Stadium Australia. He is currently Managing Director of Elevate Communications & Publishing.
CEO Sleepout founder, Bernie Fehon.
Bernie and a fellow Sleepout participant.
Stopping the residential abuse
THE Australian Resident Accommodation Managers Association (ARAMA) has launched a campaign to address rising abuse within residential complexes. CEO Trevor Rawnsley said incidents of intimidation, verbal tirades, and even physical assaults are escalating in strata communities, affecting residents, committees, and managers. The campaign aims to create psychologically safe communities through education, policies, and a statement of intent promoting respect at meetings. Many managers support the ini-
Why many are cutting back travel
AUSTRALIANS are rethinking travel. An Insure&Go survey of 1,009 people found 66% will cut back or seek cheaper options, with 47% locking in airfare sales, 30% chasing bundled deals and 20% booking last-minute. While two-thirds prioritise price, many also value flexibility and inclusions like meals or tours. Domestic costs are rising too, with airfares up 13.7% and accommodation 5.3%. Insure&Go advises travellers not to compromise on insurance despite tighter budgets.
tiative, noting abuse comes from a minority but change is overdue.
Special paramedics finish training
THIRTY-one doctors in training and four trainee critical care paramedics have completed intensive training at NSW’s Aeromedical Crewing Excellence Centre. The program prepares teams for high-stakes missions, including helicopter rescues, water recovery, and complex trauma care. NSW Ambulance aeromedical teams, supported by 71 consultants and 38 registrars, respond to over 10,000 incidents annually. The training ensures world-class care across NSW, with many trainees seeking permanent positions in these highly specialised and life-saving roles.
Growing trend in funeral services
NEW research shows 63% of Australians are surprised funeral services remain unregulated, prompting the Australian Funeral Directors Association to rebrand as Funerals Australia and call for uniform standards. Australians prioritise ethics (88%), professional training (85%) and regulation (73%), but confidence in organising funerals is low (31%). Modern funerals are shifting from religious traditions to personalised celebrations, with trends including green burials, VR memorials and living funerals. The rebrand marks AFDA’s 90th year, reflecting evolving values and expectations.
Feedback on youth homelessness
AIHW data reveals 13,300 unaccompanied children aged 12–17 sought homelessness services in 2023–24, with 77% remaining homeless after support. Most are fleeing violence, abandonment or neglect, and 63% are girls. Disturbingly, 520 children known to services died over the past decade, with suicide the leading cause. Advocates say services lack resources and child-specific housing, urging urgent national action to protect vulnerable children from homelessness, trauma and preventable deaths.
teachers feeling the pressure
UNSW Sydney research reveals 90% of Australian teachers suffer severe stress, and nearly 70% say their workload is unmanageable. Surveying 5,000 teachers, the study found depression, anxiety and stress rates three times the national norm, driven by excessive administrative tasks. Poor mental health strongly links to intentions to leave, worsening teacher shortages. Researchers urge urgent reforms to cut non-essential workload, improve wellbeing monitoring, and invest in mental health support to retain educators and protect student outcomes.
Overdue surgeries have been cut
NSW has cut overdue surgeries by more than 6,000 since March and nearly 12,000 since March 2023, thanks to $186M in funding and a further $23M announced in the 2025-26 Budget. By June, overdue surgeries dropped to around 2,500, down from 8,500 in March. NSW now leads Australia with 85.3% of patients admitted within recommended timeframes. Same-day surgeries and governance reforms are improving access, sustainability, and patient experiences across the public health system.
Trever Rawnsley.
MICHELLE ROWLAND
EVERY child and young person deserves to grow up free from harm, with the care and support they need to reach their full potential.
As Attorney-General, I made clear that my top priority at my first meeting with my state and territory counterparts would be driving reform to the Working with Children Check (WWCC) system to close loopholes and strengthen protections.
That’s why I’m pleased that at my first meeting of the Standing Council of Attorneys-General I secured agreement from all states and territories to do exactly that - progressing ambitious reforms to keep our young people safe.
At the heart of these reforms are three major changes to ensure the WWCC system is stronger, more reliable and more consistent across the country.
Firstly, if someone is rejected for a WWCC in one state, they will be rejected everywhere – banned in one, banned in all.
We have also committed to a new national system that will monitor changes to criminal history of WWCC holders in near real-time. Finally, WWCC assessment frameworks will be stronger and more consistent nation-wide.
Together, these measures will significantly strengthen child safety, complementing the work led by the Education Minister, Jason Clare, to enhance outcomes in the early childhood education and care sector.
Ensuring the safety of our most vulnerable, particularly our young people is the foremost priority of any government, and it is one that the Albanese Government takes extremely seriously.
In recent weeks, like so many parents and families across Australia and
our community, I have been shaken by the horrific cases of alleged abuse in childcare centres.
When parents drop their little ones off, they should be able to do so with confidence that they will come home safe at the end of the day.
Successive governments have let Australians down, by failing to progress reforms to the WWCC system to ensure it is fit-for-purpose and keeps our young people safe. This ends now.
Working as a team, the Albanese
Government along with states and territories are committed to ensuring our children grow up safe from harm. There is no higher priority, and we will not rest until that is a reality for every Australian family.
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
with Michelle Rowland
Launched in Western Sydney Dementia Care Navigator Service
Western Sydney is home to over a million people, 53% of whom were born overseas, and 58% of whom speak a language other than English at home. With estimates that more than 436,000 Australians are living with dementia, and two-thirds of those living in community, it is crucial that people have access to free navigation tools to get the support they deserve.
WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network are funding the Dementia Care Navigator to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds navigate the health system and access the right support services whilst seeking a dementia diagnosis or following a diagnosis.
What is the Dementia Care Navigator?
The Dementia Care Navigator is designed to support people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to learn about dementia, seek a diagnosis, connect with service providers, and access services at all stages of the dementia journey.
Who can Access it?
The Dementia Care Navigator service is available in Blacktown, Cumberland, Parramatta, and The Hills Local Government areas. It aims to connect people who speak a language other than English to governmentfunded dementia care services and supports. The service offers group information sessions, ongoing one-on-one support, expert advice, and access to translated resources and interpretation services.
The Dementia Care Navigator service is available to:
9 Individuals who primarily speak English as a second language.
9 Those concerned about their memory.
9 People who suspect that someone they know may have dementia.
9 Individuals living with dementia, along with their carers and families.
How to access the Dementia Care Navigator Service:
For more information, to register, or to refer to the service, scan the QR code, visit www.dementia.org.au/get-support or call the National Dementia Helpline at 1800 100 500. Language assistance is available by calling 131 450.
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
Western Sydney Community Dementia Forum
This is a free event Friday 19th September 2025 9:00am - 2:00pm
9:00 - 9:30am Registration commences 9:30am Opening welcome 9:45am Dementia Care Navigator Irene Robinson 10:10am Geriatrican Dr Siu-Ming Yau
The Ballroom, Workers Blacktown 55 Campbell Street, Blacktown
Please register by Thursday 28 August 2025 via QR code or contact wslhd-das@health.nsw.gov.au or call 0434 568 775
10:30am Dementia Doula Monique Pockran 10:50am Morning tea 11:10am Carers lived experience Panel discussion 12:00pm Dementia services Laura Cunningham 12:30pm
Lunch & performance by Black Stallion Square Dance Club 2:00pm Forum concludes
TraveL
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
Inside Travel Group has been connecting people, places and culture for 25 years.
The case for a Cultural Adventure
Beyond the guidebook:
F
OR some, having time away to get lost somewhere completely new and different isn’t a nice-tohave: it’s a necessity.
A cultural adventure means going beyond the guidebook to experience the people, landscapes and food that make a country what it is.
Inside Travel Co-Founder and Director, Alastair Donnelly, says this style of experiential travel is all about encountering what is completely normal for locals, but like nothing visitors have ever seen before.
“Everybody loves to travel. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a day trip close to home or an overseas adventure – travel refreshes, inspires, strengthens relationships and provides fresh perspective.
“It’s a chance to put the day-today aside and experience life in a different way – even if that’s just for a short time – all while creating memories that last a lifetime.” Donnelly said.
Connect with local culture
It’s often the places and experiences travellers don’t expect that make a trip exceptional.
Inside Travel weaves the lesser-known into each trip – including those big, bucket-list sights, too. Whatever sparks curiosity about a country, each trip is
designed to emphasise what excites the traveller, offering a few surprises along the way.
Say a trip to Cambodia is on the cards, and history is the main draw. Visitors can connect with a team of conservationists to slip behind the scaffold at Angkor Wat, revealing how Cambodia’s emblematic
temple is more than a building: it’s a sculpture. Or, if the dream is to make kroeung to flavour Cambodian curries back home, Inside Travel knows just the cookery master who’ll be only too happy to share their craft.
Inside Travel: Get beneath the surface
For the past 25 years, B Corp
Certified Inside Travel – the team behind award-winning brands InsideJapan and InsideAsia – has lived and breathed travel to Japan and Asia. The company’s founding concept was not built around traditional tourism, but rather on a desire to share the places they loved with as many people as possible, through the lens of experience and connection. www.insidejapantours.com/au/
with Emma Wilson
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
with Emma Wilson
INSIDEJAPAN’S Small Group Travel Difference
Experience local life
INSIDEJAPAN, part of the award-winning Inside Travel Group and sister brand to InsideAsia, was founded on the belief that travel is all about connection with people, places and culture.
Richard Farmer, InsideJapan’s Group Tour Manager, says InsideJapan’s small group tours are focused on helping travellers experience a slice of local life.
“Our Insiders (tour leaders) are there to encourage and enable conversations between visitors and locals, proving insight so they can join in traditions and return home with stories that can’t be found in any guidebook,” Farmer said.
Why smaller is better
InsideJapan’s small group tours offer intimacy and flexibility that large tours cannot match, with a maximum of 14 travellers.
Smaller groups allow for quieter moments at temples, deeper discussions with local guides, and the ability to securely venture into the under-explored places that haven’t been touched by tourism.
The B Corp Certified operator has been pioneering travel to Japan for 25 years and continues to enable discovery in the unlikeliest of places.
Rather than days spent touring classic sites, travellers might be found learning about the delicate art of the tea ceremony with a local host, feeling the hush of ancient forests in rural Shikoku, or joining an impromptu festival procession that wasn’t on any itinerary.
One recent traveller, Elise from North Sydney, said her experience travelling with InsideJapan was incredibly eye-opening.
“I expected to see beautiful sights – and I did – but I did not expect to fall so deeply in love with Japan,” she said.
“It was the little moments along the way that all added up. Our Insider knew every shop owner, chef and artisan by name
–and that level of personal connection made every day special.
“We journeyed out to places where there were no tourists in sight. The locals were so curious, and one family spent a moment practising their English with us. It just felt so surreal.”
More on InsideJapans Small Group Tours: www.insidejapantours.com/ au/japan-small-group-tours/
Experience ‘Hidden Zen’: www. insidejapantours.com/au/selfguided-japan-holidays/i-hzen/ hidden-zen/
Combatting Overtourism
In response to the growing challenges of overtourism in Japan, InsideJapan has launched its under-tourism initiative – an overtourism strategy aimed at balancing visitor distribution, easing pressure on hotspots, and supporting more responsible travel. At the heart of the strategy is a focus on encouraging visitation to the under-visited regions of Yamaguchi, Nagasaki, Toyama, Nagoya and Aomori – locations spread across the north, central and south of mainland Honshu, as well as the southern island of Kyushu.
Working together with local regions, InsideJapan is helping travellers combine one or more of the locations into their cultural adventure trip in Japan – not just to combat overtourism, but to showcase the uniqueness of Japan’s culture through under-represented places and local communities.
Small group tours designed for intimacy, flexibility and meaningful cultural encounters.
Tokyo Station Conductor - Bullet Train
with Emma Wilson
with Emma Wilson
Reimagine Christmas: A Japanese Winter Wonderland
WHILE the festive season
Down Under means backyard BBQs and beach days, just a short flight away, Japan transforms into a winter wonderland.
To help travellers make the most of the season, InsideJapan has added its first-ever tour departures of its popular family-friendly Must-see Japan small group tour over the Christmas and New Year period.
Temples in the snow
Richard Farmer, InsideJapan’s Group Tour Manager, says the temples, mountains and bamboo forests that amaze visitors through the warmer months take on a whole new personality when the temperature drops and the snow falls.
“Winter in Japan is serene, spiritual and sacred – steam rises from bubbling natural springs, and the vibrant orange of Japan’s torii gates stands out brilliantly against the white snow,” Farmer said.
Quirky Christmas, sacred New Year
Christmas in Japan is quirky and fun – think fried chicken dinners and strawberry shortcake. Bright illuminations pop up across the country, temples are dusted with snow, and bamboo forests fall quiet.
However, it’s the New Year (Oshōgatsu) that really defines the season. On New Years, temple bells ring 108 times and shrines fill with locals offering their first prayers of the year, creating a peaceful and deeply cultural atmosphere.
For travellers, it’s a chance to step into a slower pace and soak up Japan’s winter calm, enjoy worldclass food, culture and scenery – all within easy reach of Australia.
Switch the season
Departures are available throughout December and early January, giving travellers the chance to celebrate Christmas, New Year,
or simply escape the heat for a switch of season – with no single supplement for solo travellers and 10% off for travellers under 18.
South Korea: Asia’s Rising Star
WHEN visitors first arrive in Seoul, they’re often struck by the dizzying mix of neon lights, centuries-old palaces, and the seemingly endless cross-collide of high-tech, ultra-traditional and ultra-trendy suburbs.
While K-pop, K-dramas and skincare innovations have captured the world’s curiosity, behind these cultural exports lies a nation rich in history, natural beauty, exuberant personality and inviting hospitality.
Soul of Korea Small Group Tour
For those wanting to truly immerse themselves in the country, InsideAsia’s Soul of Korea small group tour provides a 10-day journey through South Korea’s cultural highlights.
Designed by destination specialists, this tour is a way for visitors to discover the country’s ancient past, fast-moving modern culture and exceptional food, all in one trip.
Rebecca Barry, InsideAsia’s South Korea Product Designer, says this tour is an action-packed cultural adventure.
“One moment, travellers may be exploring the ceremonial courtyards of Gyeongbokgung Palace, imagining the footsteps of Joseon-era kings, and the next, watching a live K-pop street performance standing amongst a scrum of mega-fans,” Barry said.
“Highlights include wandering through the ancient streets Gyeongju and sleeping in a traditional hanok, sharing meals in family-run restaurants, visiting Jagalchi fish market (the largest in South Korea), and stopping to take part in whatever is new and trending.
“Food is the gateway to South Korea’s culture and travellers will dig into fried chicken and beer in a Seoul back street and share one of the nation’s best-known culinary exports – Korean BBQ –with the group.”
Insider knowledge
Tours are led on the ground by Insider tour leaders who have chosen South Korea as their home, and are fluent in both English and Korean, offering deep knowledge and insight into the destination.
The small group format, with a maximum of 14 travellers, creates an engaging experience, allowing for a greater sense of shared meaning and connection.
Must-see Japan www.insidejapantours.com/au/ japan-small-group-tours/i-msj/ must-see-japan/
Seasons of travel
The Soul of Korea tour departure dates have been carefully selected to maximise each distinct season.
• January-February: Experience Korea in all its wintery glory, with the chance to see a dusting of snow.
• M arch-April: The perfect time to enjoy cherry blossoms that rival Japan’s, blooming across the country.
• May-September: Warm temperatures and lush green landscapes make this a quieter season the prime-time to visit.
• Oc tober-November: Autumn leaves turn golden, painting the countryside in warm tones as the air begins to cool.
South Korea Tours www.insideasiatours.com/au/ south-korea/soul-of-korea
Oasaji morning service at Zenkoji – Experience on InsideJapan’s Japan Unmasked small group tour
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
with Emma Wilson
Christmas with a Southeast Asian Twist
I
N Southeast Asia, December traditions mix Catholic mass with Buddhist merit-making and lantern-lit riversides. In Vietnam, Christmas is widely celebrated –especially in the south.
Hoi An is a sea of lights. Ho Chi Minh City builds a tropical “winter wonderland” and locals haul Christmas trees across the city on mopeds. Bakeries sell Bûche de Noël (a legacy of French colonialism), and churches host packed midnight services. In Laos, wake early on New Year’s Day to give alms to monks –a spiritual reset for the year ahead. On a Mekong cruise, sail past floating villages and jungle temples, with Vietnamese cooking classes replacing turkey and trimmings.
Family adventure in Southeast Asia
From ethical elephant encounters to Vietnamese cooking competitions and even muddy rice fields, there’s plenty of family fun to be had in Southeast Asia. Here are some of the top experiences recommended by the InsideAsia experts:
Ms Hang’s cookery class, Hoi An (Vietnam)
For children who love messing up the kitchen at home, InsideAsia’s partner in Hoi An, runs a cookery class based around fun, food-focused challenges – from a herb treasure hunt to a spring roll showdown and a mystery pancake flavour challenge.
Angkor Zipline, Siem Reap (Cambodia)
Convincing teens and tweens to explore temples can be tricky –but throw in a ziplining adventure, and the game changes. There is also the chance to see gibbons in their natural habitat in a conservation-friendly way.
The Living Land Farming Experience, Luang Prabang (Laos)
If the family doesn’t mind getting their hands a bit dirty, a farming experience is a great mix of something fun and cultural. Depending on the time of year, guests can help plough, plant, harvest or thresh the rice – wearing a conical hat and going barefoot in the fields, as is the traditional way.
Our top Southeast Asia
Christmas Travel Ideas
Mekong Explorer: www.insideasiatours.com/ multi-country/tailormade-trips/ mke001/mekong-explorer
Vietnam’s Landscapes: www.insideasiatours.com/ vietnam/tailormade-trips/ vls001/vietnams-landscapes
Laos by Rail: www.insideasiatours.com/laos/ tailormade-trips/lbr001/laos-rail
Discover untouched Laos
OFTEN overlooked in favour of its bolder neighbours, landlocked Laos is full of culture, history and surprises – from highspeed rail to UNESCO towns and delicious culinary offerings.
Here are five things to know:
High-speed rail
Up until 2022, the only way to get around the country was in bumpy buses winding their way around unsealed mountain roads. Now, there is a highspeed train that travels between Vientiane and Luang Prabang at 160kmp/h, making it easier than ever to explore this fascinating place.
Remarkable cultural diversity
Laos has a population of around 7.6 million people, yet its home to 49 distinct ethnicities and 160 ethnic groups. Many have their own language, some without a written form. This diversity shapes the nation’s arts, textiles, cuisine and traditions.
Eat everything
Fans of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine will find familiar flavours here – and may be surprised to learn some dishes originated in Laos. Laab, the spicy minced meat ‘salad’ often found in Thailand, is a Lao national dish, as is papaya salad.
French influence
Between 1893 and 1953, Laos was under French rule. There is still a strong French influence in Laos, from its architecture to street names to food. Elegant white plastered art deco and art nouveau facades overlook street markets offering selections of delicious pastries.
Two capitals, one culture
While Vientiane is the recognised administrative capital, Luang Prabang further north is the country’s cultural hub. Until the 16th Century, it was also the capital. Today, this mountain town has UNESCO World Heritage status.
Top five Laos experiences
1. Ride the high-speed rail – Travel at 160km/h through stunning mountain scenery.
2. Sample authentic Lao cuisine – Try laab, papaya salad, and French-inspired pastries.
3. Cruise the Mekong – Sail past floating villages and jungle temples.
4. Step into history in Luang Prabang – Golden temples and French villas await.
5. Meet Laos’ many cultures – Every region offers new traditions, textiles and stories.
Mandalao Elephant Conservation in Laos
Kangaroo isn’t breaking any boundaries, but the roos are undeniably cute as hell
BY JACOB RICHARDSON
WHEN TV weatherman Chris Masterman (Ryan Corr) accidentally kills a dolphin, he is shunned by society. Desperate for his next gig, he returns to WA but finds himself stuck in the town of Silvergum when his car breaks down.
There, he meets Charlie (Lily Whiteley), a young indigenous girl who has recently lost her father, and who is pouring her heart into helping local kangaroos and joeys.
Chris, finding himself in possession of a young joey, forms a bond with Charlie and his new hopping companion, and they work together to rescue and rehabilitate a group of orphaned joeys in the Australian outback.
Directed by Kate Woods, Kangaroo is the sort of film that you can picture every twist and turn of right from the off. There’s nothing here that’s going to blow your socks off from a plot perspective, or indeed from a performance perspective, but it’s undeniably an easy watch.
Ryan Corr is fun as disgraced reporter Chris Masterman, and brings a heap of Sydney-side scumbaggery to the role that can be a lot of fun to watch. He’s ably matched by some of the side characters, particularly Rachel House as a surly bartender and Roy Billing as an out of place Rhodes Scholar with a penchant for fruity cocktails. It is odd that Deborah
Mailman never really registers much as Rosie, and Lily Whiteley isn’t great as Charlie, but neither drag too much on the tale once it gets going.
A big part of this film is the landscape, and the location, and Woods does a great job of making these a hero of the piece.
From the unique trappings of Silvergum in all its quaintness, to
the broad and dominating wide landscapes from drone and on sticks, the film brings to life some of the expanse of the Australian outback, but also does so in a way that feels like it’s a caring and welcoming place, not a hostile one.
The cinematography across the board is proficient, well-constructed and clean; technically excellent, if perhaps missing artistic flair.
But no matter the gripes with the film’s cliche plot or hamfisted dialogue (the latter of which plays a big part in this movie), the saving grace of this picture is the undeniably adorable joey Liz at the heart of it.
Across the board, the kangaroos in this movie are cute, but that lead joey will melt your heart. The way Woods builds Liz into the film, giving this adorable little creature a real personality and heart, is wonderful, and is worth the price of admission alone.
Kangaroo might have been the sort of clichedriven film to skirt by unnoticed, but its lead two legged hopping character, Liz the joey, makes sure this film has staying power 3.5 stars.
CLICK SMARTER, NOT HARDER
How AI is changing shopping habits
FROM bagging a bargain to tracking prices or matching the perfect lipstick to your skin tone, Aussies are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) as their new online shopping companion.
New research from PayPal Australia reveals nearly half of Australians (48%) are already using AI for online product search – rising to 66% for those under 45. Additionally, 78% of Australians expect AI shopping tools will become a mainstream part of online shopping in the future.
Many Australians see practical benefits and potential savings from using AI-powered shopping assistants. Price tracking and deal alerts are the most appealing features (38%), followed by summaries of reviews or user opinions (35%), order tracking (33%), and product comparisons (30%).
Features like AI-generated product summaries (24%), visual search (29%), augmented reality try-ons
(26%), and virtual walkthroughs for real estate or holidays (26%) are also gaining interest, particularly among younger Australians.
“Australians are rapidly embracing AI as a savvy shopping companion – one that makes finding the right product faster, easier and more personal. From surfacing the best deals to tailoring recommendations to your style and needs, AI is turning online shopping into a smarter, more intuitive experience,” says Cathy Jamieson,
Head of Consumer Research at PayPal Australia.
Smart tools, real benefits… still evolving
While AI offers many benefits, it’s still an emerging technology. Almost 6-in-10 Australians (59%) say they’ve received online shopping results from AI that were unexpected, or downright laughable. This is especially true for younger generations, with 81% of Gen Z and 69% of Millennials experiencing odd recommendations, compared to 50% of Gen X and
36% of Baby Boomers.
However, despite this, 3-in-5 Australians (61%) say they’d trust AI to make product recommendations and over half of Australians (53%) say they plan to use AI tools for online shopping within the next 12 months.
“The technology is still evolving and many of us are figuring out how to get the most out of it. The real power of AI lies in how you use it – clear, specific prompts can make a big difference. When used well, AI is a powerful way to save money, time and effort when you shop online. It’s about leaning to guide the AI, sticking to trusted platforms, and being prepared to refine your questions when the responses go a bit off track,” says Cathy.
Another area where Australians are engaging with AI in online shopping is through customer service and sales chatbots. 66% of Australians feel that when AI tries too hard to “be human”, it can come off as inauthentic or insincere.
Privacy and security matter
AI is becoming so seamlessly integrated into the shopping experience that 65% of Australians believe they’ve probably interacted with AI without knowing it.
That said, privacy and security are key concerns. 92% of Australians have at least one concern about using AI in online shopping, with the privacy and security of personal information being the top concern (64%).
Despite this, 57% of Australians say they are willing to share online shopping habits and preferences to better personalise AI shopping recommendations and reap the benefits of AI shopping assistance. However, 30% say they’d only engage with AI shopping solutions from brands or platforms they trust.
About the research.? Produced by PayPal Australia, based representative. Quotas and samples were set on turnover and location. The research was fielded from 14 –16 May 2025.
WHY FAILURE ISN’T FATAL We need to celebrate faceplants
KYLIE KING
LET’S be honest for a moment, being a business owner isn’t all incredible wins and Insta-worthy milestones.
Behind every “success story” are the bits we don’t always talk about and I like to call them – the faceplants. The faceplants are the moments that:
The launches flopped.
The ideas didn’t go to plan.
The nights you cried into your wine wondering if it’s all worth it.
Every day is a new day and after that emotional night, you get up, you shake it off and you have another go because here’s the thing: failure isn’t fatal. It doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for business, it just means you’re human and you’re learning. These faceplants are generally not spoken about because we’re taught to hide the messy stuff.
Put on the brave face.
Smooth it over.
Keep up appearances.
But those faceplants? Those moments we don’t speak about.
They’re often the best part of the story.
Every woman I know who’s built something amazing has stumbled
along the way. They didn’t succeed because they never failed, they succeeded because they kept going, they kept moving forward.
Think about it:
Oprah was told she wasn’t “fit for TV.”
Walt Disney was fired for having “no imagination.”
Imagine if they’d let those labels stick?
One of the things I love about our online community – Australian Ladies in Business Initiative Pty Ltd and our ALIBI Awards is that we don’t just celebrate the shiny wins. We honour every chapter.
The messy middles.
The detours.
The “what on earth was I thinking?” moments.
Because when we share those chapters, we give other women permission to do the same. At the end of the day, perfection doesn’t connect peopleauthenticity does.
What if instead of fearing failure, we expected it? Welcomed it, even? Because every time you faceplant, you get feedback you couldn’t have learned any other way. And honestly, some of the funniest, most powerful stories I hear in business come from those moments when nothing went to plan.
I’ve had plenty myself.
Events that didn’t sell.
Programs that fizzled.
Big dreams that belly flopped.
At the time, they stung. But looking back, they were the exact stepping stones I needed to get to where I am now. That’s why I am a firm believer that we need to celebrate our faceplants.
They show courage.
They show resilience.
And they show you’ve got the guts to keep showing up.
So, the next time something doesn’t work out, don’t label it the end.
Ask yourself: what did I learn, what’s next?
Then share it.
Own it.
Laugh about it.
Because failure isn’t fatal - it’s fuel.
And when we start celebrating our faceplants, not only do our businesses grow stronger… but so do we.
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
WANDER WOMEN ACADEMY BEARS FRUIT Champions in their inaugural season
JANAKAN SEEMAMPILLAI
THE Western Sydney Wanderers NPLW Academy have been crowned Football NSW Youth Club Champions in their inaugural season.
The U14s and U16s teams finished top of the table after the Home and Away season, while the U15s and U18s were runners-up. No less than 11 players across the Club’s junior teams were picked for the Junior Matildas or other national teams, while 24 players appeared at the Emerging Matildas Tournament.
For good measure, the U23s also came runner’s up in their competition. The First Grade team had their challenges, but finished the season with five wins.
The Red & Black’s Academy Techincal Director Geoff Abrahams was thrilled with the achievements in 2025.
“Our players and coaches have worked tirelessly this year, and their efforts have been rewarded with incredible improvement across every youth age group, and the successful results have been a bi-product of that” said Abrahams on the Club’s website.
“Beyond the results, it has been inspiring to see so many of our girls gain national team recognition and experience in tournaments like the Emerging Matildas.
“This first season has laid a strong foundation, and we are excited to continue building a world-class pathway for the next generation of Matildas.”
Abrahams also coaches the A-League Women’s team, who begin their new campaign next month.
Meanwhile, Nikkita Fazzari had the distinction of being the first player from the Wanderers’ Academy to win an A-Leagues contract, with the 17-year-old North West Sydney Koalas junior enjoying a stellar season in the NPLW.
Fazzari, who is a midfielder/winger, will take her place alongside club legends like Olivia Price, Danika Matos and Amy Harrison.
Abrahams was proud of Fazzari’s story.
“This is an exciting story for everyone involved in our Women’s and Girls Programs. Nikkita is the first of many that will progress from our academy to our A-Leagues squad,” he said.
“There will be a lot of proud academy coaches and staff, and I think everyone saw very early on the exciting talent that is Nikkita.
“She’s made steps throughout the NPL season and we think the timing is right to bring her into the A-Leagues set-up.
“She will be the first of a few players this season and many more in the future.”
Fazzari herself was beaming at the opportunity presented to her, speaking glowingly on the Club’s website about how the Academy program has developed her as a footballer.
“Coming through the Wanderers Girls Academy gave me the perfect foundation to grow as a player and a person. I was lucky enough to train alongside the A-League Women’s squad, and form day one, I was welcomed into a professional environment where I felt both supported and challenged,” said Fazzari.
“That experience (with the A-Leagues team) really cemented my goal. This is
where I want to be and I’m grateful for the opportunity to take this next step.
“This season, I’m focused on learning as much as I can from the experienced players around me and pushing myself both physically and mentally. I want to continue growing my game and contribute to the team.”
Fazzari will be hoping to help the Wander Women make finals for the first time since 2019-20, which is the only time in the Club’s history they have experienced post season action.
She pledged her commitment to the cause:
“To all the incredible Wanderers’ members and fans, your support makes me proud to play for this Club and I can’t wait to give everything for this badge.”
Wanderers champions: PHOTO care of WSW’s website.
