movies, live music, interactive art, jumping castles, kid’s workshops, outdoor games and activities are all part of the annual Family Movie Night series returning to Parramatta’s local parks yhis month. Families can enjoy a picnic and free screening of hit movies including Wicked, Despicable Me 4, IF, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and The Wild Robot with plenty of outdoor games, kid’s workshops and creative activities from 11-27 April. City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the Family Movie Nights were a great way to enjoy the school holidays without breaking the budget. More: page 4. WESTERN
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ISSUE 60 AprIl 2025
How to get The Times
The Parramatta Times is available throughout the Parramatta LGA at 80 strategic locations. To find a location near you visit our website.
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LEADING domestic violence organisation, Women’s Community Shelters (WCS) is struggling to keep up with demand as shelters are being forced to turn away at least one family a day, due to a lack of available accommodation.
WCS says the number of unassisted people grew by 19% compared to 12 months prior.
Parramatta women’s shelter manager Tania Smith says shelters are becoming bottlenecks for families with no place to go.
“We’ve seen a huge increase on demand at our shelter. There are women and families looking for help and we physically don’t have any room for them. On average, we would turn away at least one family a day.”
“It puts an enormous strain on our already struggling case workers because they’re ultimately the ones to make that decision of who can stay. As a result, even families in serious crisis are missing out. We’re noticing families are now staying longer in shelters due to the housing crisis and that’s creating even more problems.”
“In our shelter, we’re also seeing more referrals for women on temporary visas. They aren’t eligible for government payments and on top of experiencing domestic and family violence they’re often dealing with other traumas and that makes them incredibly vulnerable.”
WCS confirms that for every 100 women that were
Taccommodated in WCS shelters and transitional properties, 99 weren’t accommodated primarily due to no available accommodation.
Annabelle Daniel, CEO of Women’s Community Shelters, says: “It is simple: there is a lack of available accommodation. While Australians are facing a housing availability crisis, a housing affordability crisis and a construction crisis, women who are affected by domestic and family violence are at the nexus of all three.”
In 2024, WCS saw an increase in domestic and family violence as the main reason for clients turning to its ser-
vices, with now 70% of crisis shelter clients coming to WCS due to this.
Worryingly, the impact of the cost-of-living crisis that continues to grip Australians coupled with the ongoing housing affordability / supply crisis, has shown that there is a 13% increase in the number of women who are employed now seeking WCS’s support.
Annabelle Daniel says: “In NSW alone, we need another 170,000 safe ‘bed nights’ annually for the women and children who are turned away from crisis accommodation shelters. A bed in a supportive shelter can be the different between staying alive, or out of hospital.”
Even though there is a lack of available accommodation, in 2024 WCS was able to assist 2 in 3 women and children into safe and secure housing.
Annabelle Daniel adds: “A key strength of our community-led social franchise model is the local community connections that our case managers develop, which is underpinning these impressive housing outcomes.
“However, we need more available accommodation and more community support in order to help more women and children still fleeing domestic and family violence.”
Visit: www.womenscommunityshelters.org.au
NBC Sports Club merges with Doylo
HE popular NBC Sports Clubs at Northmead has amalgamated with the Central Coast’s Doyalson-Wyee RSL Club (The Doylo) to strengthen community and club Offerings
This strategic partnership creates a new chapter for both clubs, enhancing member benefits and securing a sustainable future for NBC.
The amalgamation is a significant
milestone that aligns with The Doylo’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and fostering vibrant social spaces.
By combining resources and expertise, the partnership will ensure that NBC continues to thrive while providing enhanced facilities, services, and experiences for all members and the wider Northmead community.
“We are excited to welcome NBC Sports club into The Doylo family,” said Darren Thornton, CEO of The Doylo.
“This amalgamation allows us to preserve NBC’s proud history while bringing new opportunities and improvements that will benefit members for years to come.”
NBC has long been a cherished institution in the Northmead community, providing a welcoming space for bowling
enthusiasts and social gatherings. Through this partnership, members can look forward to improved amenities, expanded event offerings, and a stronger support network within the club industry.
Both clubs will work together to ensure a smooth transition, prioritising open communication with members and maintaining the valued traditions that make NBC a beloved part of the community.
Set in one of the fastest growing LGAs in Australia, Oran Park is a thriving, peaceful, master planned community of new homes, wide open spaces, exceptional new schools and expanding dining and retail precincts.
Premium land is scheduled to release soon and there’s a lot to fit every budget and lifestyle.
• Well positioned near the rapidly expanding Oran Park Town Centre
• Close proximity to award-winning parks, green spaces and waterways
• Easy build lots ranging from 300m 2 to 600m 2
Visit the Sales Office today and discover all Oran Park has to offer.
Scan the QR code to register your interest to be informed about future land releases.
Safe place for DV victims.
Blockbusters in your local park
BLOCKBUSTER movies, live music, interactive art, jumping castles, kid’s workshops, outdoor games and activities are all part of the annual Family Movie Night series returning to Parramatta’s local parks next month.
Families can enjoy a picnic and free screening of hit movies including Wicked, Despicable Me 4, IF, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and The Wild Robot with plenty of outdoor games, kid’s workshops and creative activities from 11-27 April.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the Family Movie Nights were a great way to enjoy the school holidays without breaking the budget.
“It’s getting harder for families to find fun yet affordable things to do during the school holidays, so we’re making life easier by putting on these much-loved events for our community,” Cr Zaiter said.
“There’s plenty of family-friendly activities for all ages to enjoy, from arts
and craft workshops, live music and entertainment to sports games and even an obstacle course for our beloved pooches – the best thing is you won’t have to travel far.”
While families can pack a picnic basket and blanket, each site will also have pizza, popcorn, ice cream and coffee on offer for those who are looking forward to tasty treats from local food stalls.
Cr Zaiter said Parramatta is home to some of the best parks and open spaces in Western Sydney.
“We’re proud of our parks including the recently transformed F.S Garside Park that has multi-use sports courts, a BMX pump track, a new playground and nature play space and a flying fox,” Cr Zaiter said.
“This is about making sure everyone in our community has access to great facilities and affordable activities within our City.
“Come early, explore and enjoy all the activities, grab a bite and then relax as you enjoy a free movie screening under the stars.”
2025 Family Movie Nights
All movies below are rated PG, parental guidance is recommended.
• FRIDAY 11 APRIL – Binnalong Park, Old Toongabbie Wicked
• SATURDAY 12 APRIL – Doyle Ground, North Parramatta
• SUNDAY 13 APRIL – North Rocks Park, North Rocks Despicable Me 4
• SATURDAY 26 APRIL – West Epping Park, Epping The Wild Robot
• SUNDAY 27 APRIL – F.S Garside Park, Granville Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Events kick off from 4pm with movie screenings starting at sundown. For more information, visit atparramatta.com/family-movie-nights
Always popular: Family Movie Nights.
ALTERNATIVE CARLINGFORD SCHOOL’S IMPACT
Boost to student wellbeing and purpose
AN independent, alternative high school in Carlingford has boosted the wellbeing and purpose of students who have found that mainstream education was not the right fit for them, according to a new report.
The latest Gateway Community High Social Impact Report found that the school’s students experienced a 7% increase in wellbeing and 9% increase in purpose over one year. This was reflected in anonymised feedback provided by students:
“I feel much more accepted for who I am and I am able to connect with teachers and staff in a much better way than before at old schools,” said one student.
“I have learnt to build stronger social connections with those around me, improve my participation in class activities and develop additional coping mechanisms for when I need them, altering my wellbeing drastically,” said another student.
The report, delivered by independent researchers,
Huber Social, details the findings of a four-year longitudinal study comprising over 100 student surveys. It tracked 50 wellbeing indicators at two points - enrolment and when students exit the school.
The findings come as the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority reports1 that almost half a million children regularly skip school and 20% of teens drop out before year 12.
This makes student wellbeing more important than ever, says Theresa Collignon, Group CEO of Gateway Community High and Macquarie Community College:
“Wellbeing is an essential part of keeping students in school and engaged in education,” she says. “The data shows that our focus on small class sizes, inclusivity and highly tailored support, is improving student outcomes and positively influencing
the trajectory of their lives.”
Students reported a range of improvements to their holistic wellness and connection including 15% increases in hope, defined as believing good things will happen in their future, and also enjoyment of life and having fun.
Related Improvements in emotional intelligence (+12%) and help-seeking behaviour (+10%) indicate that students are building their resilience and how they connect with others. These factors are evidenced by increases in:
• Supportive relationships – having someone to talk to when feeling upset, angry or worried: +10%.
• Community connection – feeling part of a community: +10%.
• Affirming relationships – having people in their life who encourage and praise them +10%.
• Supportive friendships – having a strong friendship group +9%. These findings come in contrast to research by the Australian Council for
Educational Research, which showed that Australian2 students reported feeling less safe at school than the OECD average.
According to Ms Collignon: “Many students come to us after years of struggling with their sense of safety and belonging in large school enivronments. This can impact their ability to learn and achieve their academic potential. Our role is to empower these young adults to regain their confidence, self-belief and find belonging.”
Additional life experience that students honed at the school include self-discipline (+11%) and feeling one’s opinions are heard and respected (+10%).
Gateway Community High provides unique, inclusive and supportive learning environment for 80 students to achieve their Record of School Achievement (RoSA) and Stage 6 Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Visit: www.gatewaycommunityhigh. nsw.edu.au
SEEKING WITNESS TO MOTOR ACCIDENT ON 24th OCTOBER 2024
vehicle accident in the morning of 24 O c t o b e
Parramatta / Church Street exit ramp, w h e r e a
travelling eastbound, swerved to avoid a collision from a vehicle that merged into the rider's lane, which caused the rider to merge into the Church Street off ramp, hit the klemmfix barrier, and lose control of the motorbike causing the rider to collide with the rear end of a stationary grey Mercedes on the Church Street exit ramp causing significant injury, should contact Mr Thomas Felizzi C/- Carroll & O'Dea Lawyers, Level 18, 111 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000, PH: (02) 8226 7330 email: tfelizzi@codea.com.au
Venue
WEXPO 2025 will be hosted at Hall 5A at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Australia.
Commencing at 9am and running every hour with a 30-minute break in between. Details announced soon.
Workshops require registration at www.wexpo.com.au
Event opens to the public at 8am, concludes 6pm.
EMPOWERING THE COMMUNITY THROUGH EDUCATION
Meet Western Sydney’s “accidental educator”
SASWATI MUKHERJEE
SHE calls herself an accidental educator. Meet Theresa Collignon, the CEO of Macquarie Community College (MCC), Western Sydney s independent, not-for-profit community-based training provider and WEXPO exhibitor.
This year, the college celebrates 75 years of serving the community and it also marks 10 years of Theresa being at the helm of operations. With the College running operations at six different locations, she has been instrumental in driving the growth and success of the college, with passion and a lot of grit.
Setting the bar high in adult community education since their start in 1950, MCC prides itself in creating and providing affordable and inclusive learning opportunities catered to the needs of individuals, organisations and eventually communities. The College has seen a jump in the enrolment numbers year over year, reaching up to 3,500 students annually, under Theresa s able leadership.
The founding of Gateway Community High, a small, inclusive alternative high school has added yet another feather to her cap.
“I was intrigued and interested in
the adult community education sector and very engaged with the idea of shaping and implementing MCC s purpose, vision and values. My journey to the role started in the early 1990s after a career in product marketing when I became an ‘accidental educator – tutoring at university,” says Theresa.
By now, she has held either a management or governance role in the
gamut of education and training sectors – be it early childhood, the formative school years, higher education and even learning for seniors.
The Western Sydney connection
In her 10 years at MCC, Theresa says she has witnessed the big changes to places like Carlingford, Epping and Parramatta.
“The diverse backgrounds of our local residents along with development of transport options like the metro, the light rail and the roads – communities are not just houses and offices anymore – they need greater education options for all ages,” says Theresa adding that their main role to play in building
Continued on page 9
The MCC team.
the Carlingford and Western Sydney communities is to create learning opportunities in environments where everyone feels welcomed, respected and supported.
“So many of our mature-aged students have not been in a classroom for decades – and their schooling years may have been quite daunting or negative. We help them develop the confidence to set and achieve their learning goals,” says Theresa.
At MCC, the focus is on programs that support employment and social
inclusion - digital literacy and English language courses for migrants and highly regarded practical qualification training for careers in early childhood education and care, aged and disability care.
Overcoming challenges
Like most sectors, MCC s faceto-face class operations were deeply impacted during Covid times. The short-term ups ad downs in funding and government policies in the adult community education didn t help either.
“It is unlike every other sector of
• Business & Work Visas
• Labour Agreements
• Training Visas (407)
• Partner Visas
• Parent Visas
• Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)
• Citizenship
education, being subject to (mostly) annual and unpredictable levels of contestable funding,” says Theresa. Currently, the College has a team of 150 professionals working with them.
Expansion plans
As CEO, Theresa has led the development of MCC and implemented a series of Three -Year Strategic plans focussed primarily on outcomes, impact and long-term operating sustainability. The College is now kicking off the 2025-27 plan looking at stronger communities through learning and connection.
As a result of her perseverance, despite the challenges of Covid, the College has grown and changed significantly with regard to program offerings, student numbers, revenue, staffing, IT systems and campuses in the last six years.
“We have deepened and broadened our trusted relationships with government and grown our network of referral and delivery partners and supporters. We are united in our belief that quality, inclusive education and training changes lives for the better,” says Theresa stressing on the importance of collaboration.
The College hopes to grow in their areas of strength - foundational skills such as English and digital literacy, lifelong learning and VET qualifications in Greater Sydney and in virtual classrooms. MCC is also looking at establishing additional Gateway Community High campuses, for the 15–24-yearolds, over the next ten years.
Theresa’s personal journey
A FIRST-generation Australian, Theresa is the youngest of six siblings. Born to entrepreneurs, her parents migrated in 1951 from the Netherlands. They initially made Victoria home, then relocated to Sydney. A keen, early reader, Theresa went to a local Catholic primary school in Baulkham Hills till Year 3, then moved to St Patricks, eventually finishing her high school from OLMC, both in Parramatta. As a Rotary Exchange student, she lived with four different families in Canada, an experience which Theresa thinks greatly shaped her educational and intercultural learning journey. She then went on to complete a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) from UNSW and moved to England as a global product manager for Derwent pencils. Theresa returned to Australia and completed her Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) at the Australian Graduate School of Management at UNSW. “I am grateful and fortunate that I can work in a role that aligns with my values and I can make a difference. I have the solid foundations of wellbeing and curiosity from a positive family upbringing and ongoing support, plus great education, some fantastic challenging work experiences with terrific organisations, and the energy and health to keep going on,” signs off Theresa.
Driving change: Theresa Collignon.
Continued from page 8
Home Care Made Simple
return and Earn returns $1.3B in refunds
NSW’s Return and Earn scheme has reached a major milestone, with 13 billion drink containers recycled since its 2017 launch - returning over $1.3B refunds to the community and raising $72M for charities. The program has saved water, energy, and cut emissions, reducing litter by 73%. With over 650 return points statewide, participation is strong, especially in regional areas. The scheme continues to support sustainability, community causes, and the circular economy, turning waste into valuable resources across NSW.
Anxiety disorders during, after pregnancy
RESEARCHERS from UNSW Sydney and the George Institute have launched a five-year study into perinatal intrusions - distressing, vivid thoughts of infant-related harm experienced by most women during and after pregnancy. Often misunderstood and under-researched, these thoughts can lead to anxiety disorders affecting both mother and infant. The study will explore biological, social, and cognitive factors, including hormone sensitivity, to identify those most at risk. The aim is to inform early interventions and improve perinatal mental health outcomes for mothers and their babies.
Aussie super surpasses UK and Canada
AUSTRALIA’S superannuation system is projected to become the world’s second largest by 2031, surpassing the UK and Canada, according to the Super Members Council. With $4.1 trillion in assets, the system is growing twice as fast as global peers, reducing reliance on the Age Pension and easing pressure on taxpayers. Key policy settings—universal coverage, compulsory contributions, and preservation until retirement - drive its success. A super fund delegation is in the US seeking global investment opportunities to grow members’ retirement savings further.
Sydney confirmed as host for Nrl finals
SYDNEY has been confirmed as the host of the 2025 NRL and NRLW Grand Finals, to be held on Sunday 5 October at Accor Stadium. The deal cements Sydney’s status as the home of rugby league, where the Grand Final has traditionally been played. With strong fan interest and the sport’s expansion into global markets, the event will bring major economic and cultural benefits to NSW. It also highlights the city’s growing international profile in major sporting events.
Funds to address wheelchair taxi shortage
THE NSW Government has launched a $15M emergency funding package to address the critical shortage of wheelchair accessible taxis (WATs), which have declined by one-third since 2019. The package includes increased driver incentives, new grants for vehicle costs, and improved driver training. An interest-free loan scheme has also been expanded. This urgent response aims to restore access for people with disability, while a longer-term reform plan is being developed in consultation with the community to ensure sustainable transport services.
Mental health support for first responders
THE NSW Government has launched a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for first responders, now including forestry, national parks, and transport workers alongside traditional emergency services. The strategy outlines 15 priority actions to improve mental health support, with a focus on accessibility in regional areas. Measures include Psychological First Aid training, clinical care referrals, and peer-support services. This proactive approach ensures all first responders receive tailored, trauma-informed support throughout their careers, promoting long-term wellbeing and workforce sustainability.
Surge in rough sleeping in regional areas
ROUGH sleeping in Australia has surged 22% nationwide since 2020, with a 51% rise in NSW - especially in regional areas - due to a worsening housing crisis. More employed Australians are seeking help, and services are overwhelmed. Rising rents, limited social housing, and funding shortfalls are pushing more people into homelessness. Experts warn urgent action and investment in prevention and housing solutions are needed to address what is now a national homelessness emergency.
Better feedback from breast screening
FROM April 2025, BreastScreen NSW will begin informing women of their breast density to help assess breast cancer risk. Dense breast tissue can make cancer harder to detect on mammograms and is a known risk factor. The change won’t affect appointment times, and women with high density are encouraged to speak with their doctor. Mammograms remain the best screening method, especially for women aged 50–74, with earlier screening advised for Aboriginal women.
Govt invests in keeping youth on track
THE NSW Government is investing over $270,000 in a new partnership with the NRL and PCYC to tackle regional youth crime and build stronger communities. The program will engage young people through events featuring NRL stars, police, and PCYC staff, promoting mental health, fitness, and positive choices. It complements broader crime prevention efforts, including tougher laws and youth mentoring initiatives like Project Pathfinder, aiming to keep young people on track and enhance safety in regional NSW communities.
with Emma Wilson
WINTER TRAVELLING IN THE USA Utah has everything
STARGAZING, skiing, tobogganing, ice castle experience, interesting history and great dining. Make sure you put Utah on your radar as your next winter holiday. It is wonderful in all seasons but don’t miss Utah in the winter - it’s particularly special.
Go For the Snow
Park City Mountain Resort is the USA’s largest snow resort and is only 30-35 minutes by car, uber or shuttle bus from Salt Lake International Airport. Park City Mountain Resort has two mountain bases, Park City and the Canyons - and both offer slightly different experiences. The Canyons has a brand-new upmarket accommodation, shopping and dining precinct called The Pendry, with amazing Japanese and Mexican food and a new gondola being installed over summer ready for winter season 2025/26. This will whisk guests from right outside the Pendry precinct up to the Red Pine skiing area. At the Park City Mountain base side you can ski from the top of the resort all the way down to Park City’s historic Main Street. Here you can go shopping, eat lunch or grab a coffee and catch a chairlift back up, all just 5 metres from the front of your restaurant in the Main Street of the town. I can’t think of another snow resort where you can have this unique experience, and I have visited 100 snow resorts in the USA, Europe and America. Find out more about Park City skiing at www.skiutah.com
History
Park City has a colourful history as a mining town, back in the 19th and 20th centuries silver, lead and zinc were extracted from the mountains and consequently you can ski around on the mountain and still see remnants of mining equipment large and small from this era. As you ski around it’s fun to see mining themes in the daylodges when you stop for lunch or a drink, and you can sign up to get a tour, skiing around picturesque mining structures that sit with a backdrop of snow. Tours run every day at 10am and 12.30pm during the winter season and check the schedule for details www. parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/activities/winter-activities/historic-mountain-tours
Sundance Film Festival
Every January, Park City hosts the
Sundance Film Festival, an independent short film and documentary film festival that celebrates emerging talent and thought-provoking ideas in 11 categories over 11 days. Films are shown at different venues around Park City and the town comes alive with festival-goers dining, discussing, walking between different films and even throwing on the skis for a few laps at Park City Mountain. Head to www. festival.sundance.org/ for next year’s tickets, the festival runs from 22nd January to the 1st February 2026.
Food culture
Did you know Park City is well-known as a foodie destination? Walk along Main Street and enjoy the colourful street scene with bars, pubs and restaurants vying for your attention. Riverhorse on Main offers American fine dining with seasonal food and local ingredients. High West Distillery & Saloon serves American pub food and as the first legal distillery in Utah since the Prohibition era has a range of craft spirits and unique charm. The Farm, on the Canyons base side offers American farm to table meals and is a fun place
to sit outside on a sunny day. Midway Mercantile is a short drive from Park City Main street and a great American dining experience in a refurbished general store. It serves up locally sourced cuisine from fresh local ingredients and centres on a hearth-to-table family dining experience. www.parkcitymountain.com/explore-the-resort/during-your-stay/dining
Activities Galore
Just 20 minutes down the road from Park City Main Street is an activities precinct that offers family snow tubing. Soldiers Hollow Nordic Center has the longest tubing lanes in Utah at 1200 feet (365 metres) long, so long you need a conveyor belt to get to the top. Sessions go for 2 hours, it is an experience suitable for Grandma as well as toddlers, dress warmly as this exciting ride is an outdoor experience.
Ice Castles
Is an all-ages activity best enjoyed at night when the sun goes down as purpose-built ice castles, sculptures and slides are lit up with neon lights and music. This activation is hand-built by 20 to 40 ice artists, and all 12,000 icicles are made by hand. It is across the road from the Soldier Hollow tubing activity and takes about an hour so if you plan ahead you can enjoy both before heading to
the Midway Mercantile for a warm meal. Don’t forget to book your activities and dining ahead.
Star gazing and Pitch Black Skies
Utah has several locations recognised as International Dark Sky Places, such as Antelope Island State Park, a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City, known for amazing night sky quality. It is worth experiencing if you have more time in the area and perhaps a couple of nights staying in Salt Lake City before or after your flight.
Easy
Access
Utah is a very easy destination to get to with flights into Salt Lake City via a quick stopover in Los Angeles with many airlines to choose from. There are plenty of shuttle bus services available from Salt Lake City International Airport to get you from the airport to Park City and it’s best to reserve a seat in advance. Ubers are frequent and very reliable and once you’re in Park City, the free bus system will take you to both snow resort mountain bases, Main Street and Kimbell Junction if you enjoy outlet shopping. You really don’t need a car and using public transport is a fun and easy way to mix with locals and find out firsthand what live music, events and activities are, so don’t be shy to have a chat.
Explore more of Utah at www.visitutah.com.
with Emma Wilson
Escape to the Mountains - Chalet Alpina, Jindabyne
Are you craving a mountain getaway?
Chalet Alpina is Jindabyne’s luxury family escape and is open
across Easter for autumn hikes, bike rides and fishing in Lake Jindabyne. Bring the family down and enjoy Thredbo’s Eas-
ter Adventure Festival in Thredbo with a treasure hunt, arts and crafts, rock climbing and face painting, Saturday 12 - Sunday 27 April, 2025. Winter bookings for Chalet Alpina are now open for the snow season, June 6th to late September. Chalet Alpina is in Jindabyne’s quiet Gippsland St, an easy stroll into town for after-skiing dinner and right across the road from the bus (winter schedule only) Jump online and reserve your room before you miss out. www.chaletalpina.com.au
Memphis, your music bucket-list
Soulful music attractions, cool and creative hotels, vibrant nightlife and some of the best BBQ in the world. These are just some of the reasons travellers should visit the Home of Blues, Soul & Rock’n’Roll.Now, there’s a range of new hotels and restaurants opening and fun events taking place in 2025 that make the destination a must-travel for Aussies.
• A recently opened Aloft Hotel in Downtown with a golf course and rooftop
• A refurbished haunted hotel
• New tiki-inspired cocktail bar and a fine dining venue
• Big celebrations around both Elvis Presley’s and B.B. King’s birthdays
• Summer festivals and rooftop parties that are a must during a trip to Memphis
DON’T MISS Elvis Presley’s 90th Birthday (January): The former home turned museum, Graceland puts on a series of events to celebrate the late King’s birthday, including a new exhibit with 90 curated artifacts available for the duration of 2025.
Explore more of Memphis: www.memphistravel.com
ASnow Action magazine relaunched
USTRALIA’S premier snow publication, in print for over 27 years is relaunching May 2025 with a fresh look and an increased focus on women as skiers, snowboarders, travellers and key family decision makers.
Editor Emma Wilson says: “I made this decision based on the needs of the families around me, including my own. We want to be able to decide which
destinations we’d like to take our babies, toddlers, teenagers and adult kids to, what gear and season passes to buy and we do not want the decisions to be made by just the males of the family. Gone are the days the guys go on a trip and the women stay at home - or just tag along just to ski alone all day. I’m bringing the wonderful world of snow sports up to speed to reflect what we want”.
Snow Action magazine will be available in newsagents across Australia from MidMay 2025. It will be in visitor show bags at the Sydney Snow Travel Expo at Darling Harbour’s International Convention Centre on Sunday 25 th May. Come along and discover over 70 snow destinations for your next snow trip.
NEW 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 government-funded 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.
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
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.
Dementia Australia offers a wide range of resources for health professionals and community members, including The Dementia Guide available on their website.
VAPE HONEYMOON UP IN SMOKE
Changing laws around vaping
PERSONAL possession and use of vapes is not criminalised in Australia – yet.
But the situation for the manufacturers and retailers of vapes has changed as of July 2024, when the manufacture, supply and commercial possession of disposable single use vapes became unlawful.
While the tobacco wars continue in Melbourne, new criminal offences and civil penalty provisions now apply under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 as of July 2024.
Questions are being asked in some quarters about whether the rollout of the tougher laws has been properly handled.
“The government is entitled to take such action against vapers as it sees fit but there is an obligation to make sure that people know about the changes in the law,” according to Sydney criminal law specialist Mathew Nott.
“At the moment, if you are not selling vapes out of a pharmacy, you are going to be selling vapes illegally.
“I would guarantee that you would not have to look too
hard in certain parts of Sydney to find retailers unwittingly selling vapes simply because they are not aware of the change to the law.”
Vapes are battery-powered electronic cigarettes (e-cigarette) that contain nicotine and are used in place of smoking tobacco.
But the regulations state that until 30 September 2024, you will need a prescription. However, from October
1, 2024, if you are 18 years or older you can purchase a vape from a pharmacy without a prescription. If you are under 18, you will still require a prescription subject to state and territory laws.
Under the Public Health (Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2023 amendments have also been made which have come into force from July this year. These include plain packaging, flavours will be limited
and the bans regarding tobacco advertisement will also apply to vapes.
What are the new penalties?
The penalties are set out in the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Act 2024. These reforms are targeting suppliers and manufacturers, not individuals.
This means that personal
use of vapes that have been lawfully supplied and are less than the permitted quantities will not attract a criminal offence.
However, illegal suppliers will still face a range of consequences. This will differ based on the quantity of vape products.
The penalties include: Importing, manufacturing or supplying: Imprisonment of 7 years or $550, 000 or both. Possessing as a retailer, less than commercial quantity: Imprisonment of 12 months or $55,000 or both.
Possessing at least commercial quantity: Imprisonment of 2 years or $110,000 or both.
The commercial quantity from October 1, is nine vaping devices, 60 vaping accessories and 400mL of vaping substance. https://www.tga.gov. au/sites/default/files/2024-07/ possession-and-supply-of-vaping-goods-in-australia-guidance.pdf
If you have found yourself in legal trouble regarding vape offences, contact Nott and Co Lawyers. www.nottandcolawyers.com.au
