SAVE OUR HERITAGE CAMPAIGN
YOUNGSTERS SWAPPING SCREEN TIME
BUSINESS AWARDS LAUNCHED
TWINS FOR MOTHERS DAY
MOTHER’S Day is very real for Julia Jones who is a first-time mum to twins Oliver and Evelyn. The babies came early on May, April 24 (due 31st May). It’s a nice silver lining now as Julia gets to celebrate Mother’s Day with them! Julia is looking forward to going home and learning the true meaning of motherhood. They still have a few more days left in the Special Care Nursery at Westmead Private Hospital before they can go home. She is pictured with father Richard. Australians spend an estimated more than $900M on Mother’s Day each year, making it one of the country’s biggest retail events alongside Christmas and Easter.
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ISSUE 72 AprIl 2026
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Heritage Day at Parramatta North
PARRAMATTA locals and visitors
are invited to attend a celebration of history and culture at Heritage Day at Parramatta North on Saturday, 9 May 2026 from 9am to 3pm.
Heritage Day is a family-friendly event filled with free guided walking tours of sensitively restored heritage-listed buildings, a historical talk, live music, great food, market stalls, and children’s activities.
The day’s official program will begin at 10am with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by Jannawi Dance Clan, inviting people to the home of the Traditional Custodiansthe Burramada people of the Dharug Nation.
Walking tours of the Parramatta Girls’ Home and the Parramatta Female Factory will headline the program, featuring stories of the many lives woven together that have helped shape the story of Parramatta North. In the afternoon, Judith Dunn OAM will host a
historical talk about ‘Unknown Women Pioneers’.
Kids will love the free petting zoo, face painting, craft, and lawn games at Heritage Day. A variety of unique stalls will also offer thoughtful gifts, handmade goods, and special finds – perfect for celebrating Mum this Mother’s Day.
This event is part of the 2026 Aus-
tralian Heritage Festival, which runs from Friday 18 April to Sunday 18 May. Coordinated by the National Trust of Australia, it is the nation’s largest community-driven celebration of heritage. Heritage tours and historical talks are free and require pre-booking, with tickets allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. All tours and talks are
approximately 45 minutes long. Tickets are now available: https://events.humanitix.com/heritage-day-at-parramatta-north-2026
This year’s theme, "Change", invites communities to explore the stories that have influenced our communities, consider how each generation reinterprets Australia’s diverse cultural heritagebreathing new life into places, objects, and traditions of the past - and imagine where it can take us next.
Heritage Day at Parramatta North is being hosted by Property and Development NSW in partnership with Place Management NSW. With the Ngara Light Rail stop on the doorstep of the precinct, getting to and from the event has never been easier.
Parramatta North’s cultural precinct has been on the Australian National Heritage List since 2018, recognised for its outstanding heritage value to the nation as a place that demonstrates Australia’s social welfare history.
Reforms to fast track energy projects
THE NSW Government will introduce new legislation aimed at fast-tracking critical renewable energy projects as coal-fired power stations retire. The proposed law will allow the Energy Minister
to identify and prioritise key renewable generation, storage and network projects for streamlined approvals. Environmental, planning and community consultation requirements will remain in place, with projects
expected to demonstrate best-practice engagement with regional communities and landholders. Renewable energy currently supplies about 36 per cent of NSW electricity, with summer periods exceeding 80 per
cent renewable supply. The reforms will also strengthen community benefit-sharing arrangements, with more than $180 million already committed to host communities since late 2024.
ACENTRAL Coast author with deep roots in the Merrylands area will bring his passion for Malta to his old neighbourhood when he speaks about his latest crime thriller.
He will discuss his thriller called Deception under Maltese Skies and why Malta is a great setting for a novel at Merrylands Library on Thursday, May 21 May at 11am.
Sean Richardson, who grew up in Merrylands West before eventually settling on the Central Coast, says Malta’s unique character makes it an irresistible backdrop for novels, in particular, crime fiction and he is looking forward to returning to familiar territory for the talk.
“Malta sits at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and is renowned for its sunshine and fasci-
nating history but in the shadows, lurks present danger and a dark past,” he said.
Perched between Europe and
Africa, Malta’s layered history and vibrant culture gives Richardson a background for his stories of intrigue and deception.
Deception under Maltese Skies is a prequel to his debut novel The Maltese Web, and centres on his main character the determined investigator, Marica Debono in the aftermath of the Farrugia incident.
This talk will appeal to people who want to escape to an unusual location for mystery and intrigue, to those who may have a link to Malta and also to those who have never been.
It will be an experience that will have you adding Malta to your must visit travel destinations.
The event is on Thursday 21 May, 11am to noon. For more information, phone Merrylands Library on 8757 9065.
Author talks Malta crime thriller Weak passwords hackable in seconds
PEOPLE are being urged to strengthen and regularly update their passwords ahead of World Password Day, with ID Support
NSW warning that weak passwords can be hacked in seconds. Cybersecurity experts recommend changing passwords every three to four months
and using long, unpredictable passphrases with a mix of symbols, numbers and upper and lower-case letters. The agency says one in four Austra-
lians will experience some form of identity theft during their lifetime, highlighting the importance of strong online security habits.
Author Sean Richardson.
MP’S MISSION TO SAVE HERITAGE 6000 residents sign petition
TONY BOSWORTH
AGRASSROOTS petition by Parramatta Federal MP Andrew Charlton to protect key heritage sites in Parramatta has surged past 6000 signatures, signalling strong local opposition to a controversial development proposal and reigniting debate over how the city balances growth with preservation.
The campaign centres on getting Heritage listing for three buildings amid concerns that a planned housing development around historically significant sites could permanently alter Parramatta’s cultural landscape.
While recent revisions to the building proposal have eased some elements of the development, critics argue the core threat to heritage remains unresolved.
The mooted development’s revised plans for 2A Gregory Place in Harris Park see an original 483 dwelling plan cut to just over 320 terraces and apartments, potentially providing homes for between 600 to 800 people.
Building heights have also been reduced, including along the site’s boundaries where it connects with Hambledon Cottage and Experiment Farm Reserve, and with lower buildings planned adjacent to Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral, plus a new unobstructed view corridor from Hambledon Cottage to the Co-Cathedral.
But Mr Charlton said the petition’s rapid growth reflects a deeply held community commitment to preserving Parramatta’s identity and pushing back against the proposed development.
“The petition will stay live for the next few weeks, and it could reach 10,000 signatures - though honestly, the response we’ve already seen has exceeded what we expected,” he said.
“This is our largest campaign to date and thousands of people have already signed because they understand what’s at stake. These sites are irreplaceable, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.”
The MP added that heritage in Parramatta extends beyond individual
buildings to encompass the broader landscape and cultural meaning of the area.
“What locals are telling me is that heritage here isn’t confined to four walls - it’s the landscape, the sightlines, the feeling of what Parramatta has always been,” he said.
“For the Maronite community, those skylines surrounding Australia’s largest Maronite cathedral are sacred.”
Mr Charlton acknowledged Parramatta’s role in addressing housing demand, noting it already leads New South Wales in development approvals.
Pulling our weight
“Parramatta is pulling its weight on housing. We have the highest number of housing approvals in NSW, and I’m proud of that,” he said.
“But growth without memory is not progress. Locals want to see Parramatta grow, while staying true to its roots.”
The petition forms part of a broader push to secure National Heritage listing for three early colonial buildings in the area, a move supporters argue would provide stronger protections against future development pressures.
Parramatta heritage advocate Suzette Meade said such recognition would deliver both cultural and economic benefits.
“Protecting the integrity of Parramatta’s heritage through National Heritage listing isn’t just about the past, it’s
about the future,” she said.
“Recognition of these three early colonial buildings is smart economics. Cultural and heritage tourists are high-value visitors who spend more, stay longer, and contribute billions to Australia’s economy, and Parramatta is perfectly placed to benefit from this.”
The Heritage Council is currently assessing the sites, with Mr Charlton confirming he is working with Federal Heritage Minister Murray Watt to maintain momentum on the listing process.
Mr Charlton said his confidence in a
positive outcome rests firmly with the community.
“I draw my confidence from the community, not from anything I’ve done,” he said.
“The thousands of people who’ve signed this petition - the families, the Maronite community, the heritage advocates, the locals who’ve grown up in the area - they’re the ones making the case. And it’s a powerful one.”
Hambledon Cottage.
MP Andrew Charlton.
Garden area of Elizabeth Farm. Images courtesy Cheryl Bates - National Trust of Australia - Parramatta Branch.
Hambledon Cottage.
A major global cultural destination
POWERHOUSE Parramatta, one of the world’s most significant new cultural projects, is set to open in late 2026 on the banks of the Parramatta River, positioning Western Sydney as a major global cultural destination.
The 30,000sqm museum is the largest cultural infrastructure project built in Australia since the Sydney Opera House and has been designed by internationally acclaimed Franco-Japanese architects Moreau Kusunoki alongside Australian firm Genton.
The landmark development is the
first state cultural institution built in Western Sydney, one of the nation’s fastest-growing and most diverse regions.
Construction of the main building by delivery partner Lendlease is now complete, with exhibition installations and final public domain works underway ahead of opening.
Powerhouse Parramatta will showcase five major international exhibitions at launch, alongside innovative learning, industry and community programs designed to redefine the role of museums in contemporary life.
The museum includes one of Australia’s largest column-free exhibition spaces, spanning more than 2,000sqm with an 18-metre ceiling height. This area will host Task Eternal, an immersive exhibition exploring humanity’s fascination with flight and space exploration.
The museum will significantly expand public access to the renowned Powerhouse Collection of more than 500,000 objects, while also serving as a major education hub through the Lang Walker Family Academy.
The academy will offer immersive learning experiences, including overnight residencies for up to 10,000 secondary students annually from regional NSW and Western Sydney.
Powerhouse Parramatta will also feature 30 residential studios for artists, scientists and researchers to collaborate on programs and projects. A 200-seat Vitocco Kitchen will combine food science, technology and cultural storytelling through chef-led experiences and events.
A rooftop terrace overlooking Parramatta and the Sydney CBD will include Indigenous gardens, a greenhouse, an observatory with retractable roof and the ING Pavilion for public talks and workshops.
Sustainability is central to the
project, with the museum opening as a net-zero emissions facility from day one. It is the first public building in Australia and the first Western Sydney project to achieve a 6 Star Designed rating under the Green Building Council of Australia’s Green Star Buildings assessment tool.
Powerhouse Trust President David Borger described the project as a transformative investment for NSW and Western Sydney, while Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said the museum would create a dynamic cultural ecosystem bringing together industry, community, collections and ideas in new and evolving ways.
Powerhouse Parramatta is funded by the NSW Government and delivered by Infrastructure NSW in partnership with Lendlease and a range of supporting organisations and foundations.
Droe view of Parramatta Powerhouse.
Swapping screen time for face time
ANEW intergenerational initiative is launching at North Rocks Shopping Centre with a simple but powerful goal: to reduce loneliness and digital isolation by bringing teenagers and seniors together face to face.
The program, delivered by Youngster.co and hosted at North Rocks Shopping Centre, officially launches on Thursday, May 14 and will run fortnightly on Thursdays from 10 am to 12 pm.
It is designed to be far more than a tech help service. Instead of quick fixes or phone repairs, it creates a safe, welcoming space where generations can meet, learn from one another, and build meaningful human connection.
At a time when young people are often criticised for spending too much time online, this program turns that narrative on its head. Local teenagers are employed and trained to support older residents with everyday technology, while engaging in real conversations that benefit both age groups.
“We are proud to host this initia-
THE Australian Medical Association is urging tighter regulation of nicotine pouches, warning they risk repeating harms seen with vaping. In a sub-
tive at North Rocks Shopping Centre because it reflects the kind of community connection we want to support,” said Holly Bosco, Marketing Manager at North Rocks Shopping Centre.
“It gives seniors a welcoming place to get practical help, while also creating meaningful opportunities for young people to contribute, connect and grow.”
The program is built on reciprocity and shared value.
Participants receive practical help
with technology, but also gain something deeper: connection. Seniors are encouraged to share stories, life experience, and wisdom, reinforcing their sense of purpose and belonging in the community.
For young people the program provides paid work experience, confidence, employability skills, and a strong sense of contribution beyond the classroom.
“Loneliness affects both our oldest and youngest community members,”
said Tony Rothacker, CEO of Youngster. co.
“Technology is simply the icebreaker. What really matters is the human connection that follows. Seniors leave feeling listened to. Young people leave standing a little taller because they know they have made a difference.”
The community is invited to see this intergenerational connection in action at the official launch at North Rocks Shopping Centre.
Doctors warn against nicotine patches
mission to the Therapeutic Goods Administration, the AMA called for urgent action to close loopholes allowing unapproved products into the market. Report-
ed harms include gum irritation, nausea and high blood pressure, with some pouches delivering nicotine comparable to cigarettes. The AMA raised concerns
over youth-targeted marketing and online sales, and supports stronger national rules, enforcement, health warnings and packaging to address regulatory gaps.
Public Notice
event?
Uniting Venues North Parramatta o ers an idyllic conference and training venue, in park like grounds with native gardens adjacent to a bush reserve.
With state-of-the-art facilities including in-house audio visual, free Wi-Fi, onsite catering, accommodation, parking, unbeatable accessibility and convenience, Uniting Venues has everything you need to plan and run your next event, conference, or seminar. With exible spaces, the latest technology and a standout location, Uniting Venues North Parramatta is the place for your next event.
NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 12A OF THE REAL PROPERTY ACT 1900 OF INTENTION TO REMOVE MORTGAGE AC214316 IN FAVOUR OF STARR-BOWKETT STATEWIDE CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY NO.26 LIMITED
Application AW4072 by Paloma Lidis (Applicant) The above mentioned Application has been lodged by the Applicant on 2 April 2026. The Application is a Request to remove a mortgage in favour of Starr-Bowkett Statewide Co-Operative Society No.26 Limited, (Mortgage). The Mortgage is recorded against folio of the Register 1/SP12351 being 1/132 Railway St Granville NSW 2142. We are satisfied that the Application is in order and therefore we intend to register the Application and remove the Mortgage using the power available under section 32(6) of the Real Property Act 1900 unless, within 30 days of the date of this notice, a court order preventing us from registering the Application is lodged with our office: Date: 13th May 2026. Enquiries, quote ref: AW4072 MH LEG 6 Email: ldr@nswlrs.com.au
The Youngster.co program in action.
Historic Regent Theatre reopens
FOR years, the curtain on a once praised Sydney Theatre stayed closed.
Now, Greater Western Sydney’s iconic live entertainment venue, The Regent Theatre, is officially re-opening its doors.
After an extensive multi-million-dollar renovation, the heritage-listed art deco theatre is set to return to its former glory as a premier destination for live music, comedy and cinemapromising to inject new life into the community and beyond.
In a remarkable display of this overwhelming local support, the Official Re-Opening Show featured legendary Australian musician Ian Moss on Saturday, May 2, sold out in under an hour and three of the venue’s first four shows have all completely sold out, setting the stage for a thriving new era of live performance.
Established in 1935, The Regent The-
atre (Richmond) has been at the heart of entertaining locals in Hawkesbury and Greater Western Sydney for 90 years.
The venue holds a special place in Australian entertainment history, having once been famously purchased and restored by television legend Mike Walsh in 1976.
Following years of deterioration, The Regent was in danger of being lost for good.
But the new owners have stepped in to breathe new life into the theatre, lovingly undertaking a massive transformation, upgrading its state-of-the-art facilities to provide the best artist and guest experience.
"Greater Western Sydney is one of the fastest growing urban populations in the country," said Owner
Duncan MacKay.
"We’ve put our heart and soul into bringing The Regent Theatre back to life. It presents a quality new venue
Find a local business that comes to you in person or remotely. From dentists to your door, removalists, trades, telehealth, food and more
for a market that we understand is hungry for local, domestic and international touring entertainment. We can’t wait to welcome artists & fans."
The Official Re-Opening Weekend kicks off on Friday, May 1 with an electrifying performance by Sara Berki - one of the most exciting new artists in Australian Country Music, alongside her band, special guest C Golden Guitar winner William Alexander C Local Support Ellerie Rose. All part of Great Southern Nights 2026.
The venue's revitalisation brings a much-needed boost to Sydney's live music scene. The Regent Theatres impressive new key features, include:
• A licensed 700+ capacity in the Stalls and Dress Circle.
• Flexible Theatre (518 seated) or Concert Mode configurations with impeccable sight lines.
• Brand new Stage, Sound and Light-
ing, along with Cinema Digital Screen Projection.
• Artist-friendly Dressing Rooms, stage access, direct loading and parking.
• Licensed Bars in the Stalls and Dress Circle foyers, plus a service bar directly into the stalls.
• Fully air-conditioned spaces with high-speed internet.
The excitement extends well beyond the Opening Weekend, with an upcoming pipeline of talent slated for the region with other announced shows including the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Tour, Ben Lee, Kate Ceberano, The Robertson Brothers, Anh Do, Tim Freedman and many more close to being announced.
For more information on upcoming shows or to purchase tickets, visit www.theregentrichmond.com.au or follow @theregentrichmond on social media.
The refurblished Regent Theatre.
PARRAMATTA LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS RETURN Time to vote for your favourite
THE Parramatta Local Business Awards is back, and it’s almost time for you to nominate your favourite business.
Nominations for the 2026 Parramatta Local Business Awards open on Monday, 4 May 2026 and will close on Tuesday, 2 June 2026 with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Tuesday, 4 August 2026.
For over four decades, the awards have shared success stories, inspired businesspeople, and united the local community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and founder of the Local Business Awards, Steve Loe said the program presents the opportunity for local businesses to be recognised for their hard work and celebrate their achievements.
“Many businesses have expressed over the years just how much it means to them to be nominated for an award and recognised for their efforts.”
Mr Loe encourages everyone in the community to cast their vote and show appreciation for the outstanding goods and services providers of Parramatta.
“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people, who are the backbone of our community”, said Mr Loe.
Businessowners, now is the time to get involved – to register your business or update your profile for the awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
The Parramatta Local Business Awards are made possible through the ongoing support of our Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partner: NOVA Employment, and Support Partners: The Epping Club and Bx Networking.
Mr Loe extends his thanks to the Awards Partners for their support and commitment to celebrating the achievements of local businesses in the Parramatta community.
As our official Media Partner, Parramatta Times will provide updates on the Awards program and run
visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
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payment solution for pet insurance
RSPCA Pet Insurance has launched Direct2Vet, a free payment solution for clinics that allows claims to be processed in real time, so pet owners only pay the gap instead of full upfront costs. The system streamlines claims, reduces admin, and improves access to care. Research shows many Australians delay treatment due to cost, with one in five unable to afford emergencies. Direct2Vet aims to ease financial pressure, support vets, and improve treatment decisions.
Showering is now classified as care
AGEING Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to make showering free under the Support at Home program by classifying it as clinical care. Previously, older Australians paid 5–50% in contributions. CEO Tom Symondson said the change restores dignity and addresses concerns that costs led some
to reduce or skip showers. The move ensures better access to essential care and reflects community values around supporting older people.
Doctors launch vaccination campaign
THE Australian Medical Association has launched a national
“Have the jab chat” campaign urging Australians to consult
doctors about vaccination amid rising misinformation and falling immunisation rates. Coverage for key childhood vaccines has dropped below the 95% target. Dr Danielle McMullen said confusion, not access, is driving delays, with many turning to unreliable online sources.
property group reports a slowdown
THE Australian Property Institute reports a sharp confidence slowdown, with its Outlook Index dropping to 6.1 in Q2 2026 as interest rate rises weigh on sentiment. All states and sectors declined, though the market remains above neutral. Industrial property leads performance, while office and retail lag. Residential sentiment has fallen but remains supported by supply shortages.
prescription reforms saving money
THE NSW Government ADHD reforms are saving NSW families about $10M annually by allowing GPs to prescribe repeat medication, avoiding costly specialist visits. Around 10,000 people benefit from reduced fees and wait times, while easing pressure on specialists. Over 1,100 GPs are now authorised, many in regional areas, the reforms allowing more training to diagnose and treat ADHD.
Many Aussies still work while sick
ASURVEY by people2people Recruitment reveals many Australians still work while sick, driven by workload (30%) and guilt (35%), with 20% fearing judgment. Despite strong support for free workplace flu shots (81%), only 37% were vaccinated in the past year. Many employees feel uncomfortable taking sick leave, highlighting ongoing workplace
pressure and a gap between support for health measures and actual behaviour.
Crackdown on super for dental work
THE Australian Dental Association NSW has backed a joint crackdown by the Australian Taxation Office and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency on unethical schemes encouraging early super access for dental work. With $817.6M withdrawn in 2025, concerns include financial harm and poor treatment quality. Patients are urged to seek independent advice and understand risks.
One of five avoid prescriptions
THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia is urging the Federal Government to freeze PBS medicine prices until 2030 to keep prescriptions affordable. While costs were cut to $25 in 2026, saving patients over $50M, prices could rise again without action. The Guild warns higher costs lead to skipped treatments and poorer health, calling for certainty amid costof-living pressures. One in five Australians have avoided prescriptions due to cost.
Companies exposed to payment fraud
RESEARCH from Eftsure warns workplace hierarchy is exposing Australian organisations to payment fraud. Only 25% of employees feel comfortable questioning senior executives, while many lack awareness of fraud prevention tools. Cybercriminals exploit this pressure by impersonating leaders and manipulating approval processes. The findings highlight a gap between leadership understanding and frontline risk.
Telling stories, celebrating success, inspiring all WISB is about progress. The stories that stem from the rich ecosystem of women growing in and succeeding in businesses across all sectors and all levels.
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Tax Debt Matters
FUEL CRISIS AND YOUR ATO DEBT What it is and what it isn't
MICHAEL MOON
AN accountant rang me last week about a client in logistics. They'd seen the ATO's fuel crisis announcement and wanted to know if it would help.
The client's been carrying a debt for about 18 months and fuel costs have made it worse.
I said I can tell you what it is and I can tell you what it isn't. That's what this month's column is about.
Who is this for?
If you run a business in transport, construction, agriculture, logistics, or anything that moves goods, you've felt the fuel crisis already. The government has responded with a temporary cut to fuel excise and the ATO has announced a formal relief package for businesses carrying tax debt.
Before you do anything, here's what you need to know.
What the ATO has announced
From 1 April, businesses affected by fuel costs can apply for a tailored payment plan. No upfront payment, 36 monthly instalments, and possible remission of general interest charge if you meet the conditions. Applications are open until 30 June 2026.
Who qualifies
You need to meet four criteria. Your operating costs must have increased because of fuel, either di-
rectly or through your supply chain. You need to have a tax debt you can't currently service. You need to show that without the fuel price increase, you could have paid. And your lodgments need to be current, or you need to get them current within three months of starting any arrangement.
That last point is the one that catches people. If your lodgments aren't current, you're not eligible. That's the bit most people miss.
What it isn't
This isn't debt forgiveness and it isn't automatic. The ATO can't waive what you owe, and there's no guarantee your application will be approved. You apply, they assess it, and they decide whether to approve.
Worth knowing too: the terms being offered are what we'd normally negotiate for any business in hardship. Thirty-six months, no upfront payment. That's been available for a while. The fuel crisis label is new, but if you've worked with us before, you'll recognise the mechanics.
What to watch out for
To apply, you need to provide direct debit details. If the ATO doesn't approve your arrangement, they now have your bank account on file, and that's information they can use for enforcement action later. That's worth understanding before you fill in the form.
There's also a question about older debt. The ATO is talking about fuel impact on your current ability to pay. If the debt is two years old and predates the
crisis, it's unclear how they'll assess it. We're testing this with live cases right now.
What to do if this affects you
Get your lodgments current first. You won't get anywhere until that's done.
If you're carrying tax debt and fuel costs are adding to the pressure, don't go straight to the ATO without understanding your options. What you agree to now is what holds when enforcement returns to normal. We're happy to talk it through.
Next month I'll be covering payday super. Another change hitting 1 July that will compress cash flow and, for businesses already stretched, will create new ATO debt if they're not ready.
Michael Moon is a Director at Tax Assure, a specialist tax debt negotiation firm. Tax Assure works on an assessment and engagement fee followed by a success fee based on GIC and penalties actually remitted. Initial consults are obligation free. 1300 952 295 | www.taxassure.com.au
PARENT CONCERN OVER CONTACT SPORTS Technology monitoring grassroots sport
WORLD first Australian concussion-monitoring technology, once reserved for elite athletes, is now being rolled out across grassroots sport, bringing real-time impact tracking to suburban ovals and school grounds nationwide.
With concussion concerns continuing to rise, wearable technology is giving parents greater confidence in player safety.
HITIQ’s Proteqt smart mouthguard, worn like any standard mouthguard, features impact-monitoring sensors that detect and record head impacts in real time, equipping parents and coaches with objective data on both the frequency and severity of impacts.
Melbourne mother Eunilid, whose 12-year-old daughter Chloe plays junior AFL, said the technology has changed the way she approaches her child’s safety.
“I used to hold my breath every time Chloe went into a tackle. Now I get real-time data straight to my phone,” she said. “I know what’s happening, I know when to pull her off the field, and it’s taken away so much of the fear.”
Chloe said the mouthguard has given her greater confidence on the field.
“I love footy, but I used to worry about getting hit in the head. Now I feel safer because Mum and my coach can see what’s going on.”
The technology is gaining traction as concern about concussion in junior sport grows, with one in three parents reportedly choosing to keep their children out of contact sports due to fears of brain injury. Research also suggests a significant proportion of concussions in community sport may go undetected.
AFLW Best and Fairest winner Ebony
Marinoff, who has been announced as a Proteqt ambassador, said expanding access to the technology could be a major step forward for player safety.
Marinoff, the AFLW’s all-time record holder for tackles and disposals, is widely regarded as one of the competition’s toughest and most consistent players, regularly leading the league in contested play.
“I wear Proteqt at the elite level, so it’s great to see this technology becoming available to players at all levels of the game,” Marinoff said.
“Giving grassroots athletes access to the same tools used in the professional environment is a really positive step for the sport.”
HITIQ Chief Commercial Officer Damien Hawes said concussion remains one of the biggest challenges facing collision sports.
“There are so many impacts that happen that the naked eye can’t see, and the most dangerous ones are often the ones we miss,” Hawes said. “Proteqt flags higher-risk impacts in real time so players can be identified quickly and supported with the right follow-up.”
The technology assigns a “Damage Severity Index” score to each impact, helping identify incidents that may require medical attention and enabling more informed decisions on and off the field.
Hawes said the system fills a critical gap in community sport, where concussion is still largely identified through sideline observation.
Sport-related injuries account for more than half of all hospitalised concussions in Australian children aged 10 to 15, with Australian rules football responsible for a significant proportion.
Visit: www.hitiq.com
HARMS OF SEEKING AN AI SECOND OPINION How professionals and AI interact
ARECENT study published in Computers in Human Behavior has revealed that financial or travel advisors often feel offended when their clients use AI to obtain a second opinion and are less motivated to work with the clients down the track.
The research, conducted by the Monash Business School, in collaboration with MUMA College of Business at the University of South Florida, examined how professionals perceive and react to clients who consult AI-enabled advisors.
Rapid advances in artificial intelligence have enabled the rise of AI-enabled advisory tools. While these tools benefit decision-makers, they also introduce new competitive pressures for human advisors whose expertise they may complement or replace.
First author, Associate Professor Gerri Spassova, from the Department of Marketing, said learning that a client has sought AI advice decreases the focal advisor's motivation to work with that client.
Importantly, this effect persists even when clients use AI only for background information or as a complementary resource.
“Advisors view AI as substantially inferior to themselves; thus, being placed in the same category as an AI
system feels insulting and signals disrespect, undermining advisors' willingness to engage,” Associate Professor Spassova said.
An interesting question the research raises is whether this would change once AI becomes more acceptable.
“One can only speculate,” Associate Professor Spassova said. “My intuition is that the situation will not get much better. Firstly, because professional advisors’ jobs are on the line.
“Also, as AI gets better, it may threaten our sense of worth and self-regard, and so when clients defer to AI, it
would prompt advisors to question the value of their human contribution.”
Key findings:
• Seeking a second opinion from AI erodes advisors' motivation to work with the client.
• The effect persists when AI is consulted for initial or complementary information.
• Feeling offended, due to being equated with AI, explains the effect.
• Clients who consult AI may be seen as less competent and warm.
One way the researchers assessed this was by asking participants to imagine they worked for a travel agency, and
that a few months earlier, they spent an hour with a client who needed advice about a trip to North America, discussing travel packages and looking up flights and accommodation.
Half of the participants were then told that the client also saw another travel agent and ended up booking the trip through them; for the other half, the other travel agent was described as an AI travel agent.
Participants were then asked to imagine that a few months after the first encounter, they were asked by the same client to book a new trip.
Participants indicated they were less willing to spend time with the client if on the previous occasions they had booked the trip with an AI agent.
“Ultimately, we believe that at present it is better for clients not to disclose to their advisors that they consulted AI. And this may be particularly true for new client-advisor relationships, where the client has no track record of doing business with the advisor and where trust may not have been established yet,” Associate Professor Spassova said.
“The effect will probably be weaker if there is a long history of the client and the advisor working together (though even then the advisor may feel cheated).”
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Delisia, Zetland, drop in sometime!
DELLI Sia sits right in the middle of Zetland, and it’s the kind of place you could easily walk past but shouldn’t.
I was greeted by Lena on arrival, who struck that balance of being genuinely friendly without overdoing it. The service felt natural, which immediately makes you relax.
I ordered the Figaro, one of their signature paninis, and it was a good call. It’s generous without being over the top, and more importantly, it actually delivers on flavour.
There’s a bit going on, but it all works, nothing feels like it’s there for the sake of it. It’s clearly been thought through, not just assembled. Across the table, the Veggie Voyage looked just as good and is already on the list for next time.
One thing worth noting: the paninis are made off-site at a central kitchen. Sometimes that can go either way, but here it works, the bread had the right texture and everything tasted fresh. Coffee was a piccolo, done properly.
Smooth, balanced, no bitterness, exactly what you want alongside something rich. Deli Sia doesn’t try too hard, and that’s probably why it works.
Good food, good coffee, and service that feels like it comes from actual people. Zetland’s got no shortage of cafés, but this one’s worth your time.
Visit: www.delisia.au
Winter in Melbourne is indulgence
WINTER is a great time to go to the theatre and there are so many great things to see in Melbourne during May through to July 2026.
A great mix of blockbuster musicals with contemporary and experimental works. At the Comedy Theatre, SIX the Musical opens in July and this is a high-energy pop musical retelling the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives, delivered as a concert-style spectacle.
Nearby, the Regent Theatre hosts Pretty Woman The Musical from mid-July, a glamorous stage adaptation of the much-loved film.
Venues such as the Athenaeum Theatre and Capitol Theatre feature immersive and visually driven productions like Candlelight Hans Zimmer’s Best Works, a live, candlelit concert experience celebrating cinematic scores and Ballet of Lights Cinderella, a family-friendly reinterpretation of the classic fairytale using illuminated costumes and dance.
Why not surprise Mum with a memorable Mother’s Day celebration across the entire weekend?
Begin the festivities with an elegant dining experience at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins, where refined French-inspired hospitality meets breathtaking city views.
Indulge in a specially curated Mother’s Day High
Tea or a leisurely lunch at the hotel’s signature restaurant No35..
Extend the experience with a pre-theatre dinner before heading to an evening performance, or transform the occasion into a full Mother’s Day weekend escape, the perfect blend of culture, cuisine and cherished family moments in the heart of Melbourne’s theatre district.
Stay at the Hotel For The Arts for the full experience
Sofitel Melbourne On Collins is a luxury hotel located in Melbourne’s theatre district (up the Paris end of Collins Street) with several theatres located within very easy walking distance.
As a 5-star hotel in Melbourne’s CBD leaning heavily towards ‘theatre life’, it regularly pairs Q and A sessions, or displays regular Art Exhibitions which are changed every quarter.
Our current exhibition is Six Artists | Seven Days on the first floor. This is a luxury hotel with incredible city views, with rooms starting from level 36 and above.
Views from No 35 Restaurant overlook the river and out across the bay, it really is a lovely theatre
getaway for a night or two.
You can purchase a Stay and See package that bundles overnight accommodation, breakfast and tickets to a show.
Pre-Theatre Dining
Sofitel Melbourne On Collins’s No35 Restaurant is a dining experience that understands you need to eat reasonably quickly and be in your theatre seat within the hour.
The pre-theatre menu is delicious and sustainable and such a lovely spot to watch the sun go down and the city begins to twinkle.
Take the Whole Family
The Little Luxuries, Big Memories family package invites families to relax in a spacious Prestige Suite, complete with breakfast at No35 Restaurant, a charming Le Petit Prince activity pack for younger guests, an in-room family movie experience, a shared dessert delivered to your suite, children’s tailored bathrobes and the comfort of a leisurely late checkout, thoughtful touches designed to create last ing family memories.
with Emma Wilson
with Emma Wilson
Are you a history buff? Travel Taiwan
BY JANE KINKADE
BEYOND the iconic silhouette of Taipei 101 lies a landscape of colonial layers and deep spirituality. This five-day journey balances Taiwan’s fascinating history with its soul centred heritage, shifting from the political heart of Taipei to the ancient streets of Tainan.
Days 1–2: Taipei’s Colonial Layers
Taipei’s Colonial layers begin in Dadaocheng, where the scent of dried herbs and high mountain tea evokes the 19th century tea trade. Here, "old meets new" as traditional Chinese medicine shops sit alongside contemporary galleries and boutiques selling artisanal textiles and affordable traditional bags.
Trace Taipei’s history from the European maritime influence at Dadaocheng Wharf to the spiritual heart of the city, Longshan Temple. Here, the ritual of red, crescent shaped ‘moon blocks’ creates an atmo-
Japanese era buildings and culinary fusion around Yongkang Street before heading to the Chiang Kaishek Memorial Hall (now the "Freedom of Speech" pavilion). The Changing of the Guard occurs hourly (9:00 AM–5:00 PM) and remains a powerful reverent act of precision.
Conclude at the Hengshan Calligraphy Art Centre, where ancient scripts meet contemporary expression; from delicate scripts to robust strokes, it is the ideal serene space to reflect on your day’s highlights.
Day 3: Kaohsiung, The Path to Enlightenment
Travel south via High-Speed Rail (HSR) to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. A global leader in "Green Action," these grounds feature Taiwan’s larg est Buddhist botanical garden.
Walk the "Great Path to Buddhahood," flanked by eight towering pagodas, culminating at the 108 metre bronze Big Buddha.
• Lunch: Hi-Lai is highly recommended for delicious, plant-based Chinese cuisine.
• The Museum is open Mon–Fri 9–6; Sat/Sun 9–7 (Closed Tuesdays). Admission is free.
Day 4: Kaohsiung - Maritime History and Modern Revival
Visit the Former British Consulate at Takow. Perched on a hilltop, this red brick landmark offers a window into 19th century diplomacy. Enjoy the elegant teahouse at the summit before following the ancient consular trail down to the harbour.
Transition to the Pier-2 Art Centre, where abandoned warehouses are now a vibrant cultural hub. Dine at Fudopia for fresh seafood paired with sparkling tea. Afterward, stroll through the outdoor sculpture park to see the giant "Transform er" and sample Taiwan’s famous pineapple cake.
• Stay: Amnis Boutique
Hotel is a standout luxury choice. This art inspired hotel boasts curated works by The Alien Centre and sleek, modern rooms (Guests over 10 years only).
Day 5: Tainan – The Ancient Capital
Finally, head to Tainan, the island’s oldest city and culinary soul. Start at the Tainan Art Museum, housed in a former Japanese military building. Unlike "open space" galleries, works are showcased in individual rooms to preserve the original structure’s layout.
Visit Anping Fort, holding the relics of the 17th century Dutch "Fort Zeelandia." Nearby, the Anping Tree House is a "must-see”, a former salt warehouse overtaken by century old banyan roots, creates a living "industrial jungle."
Culinary Heritage: Tainan is the birthplace of
BRISBANE'S MID-WEEK STAY AT Pullman King George Square
BY JESS HAYES
LOCATION, location, location. Situated in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, the Pullman was a short stroll to Queen St Mall and Queens Plaza for Brisbane’s best boutique shopping, and to trains or ferry terminals to easily get around the city.
Check-in was a breeze with attentive reception staff greeting guests with a smile and were available to answer any queries.
Our room on the 13th floor had stunning views of Roma St Parklands, King George Square and City Hall.
We had a spacious room with all the features of a five-star hotel, including a king-sized bed, a lounge chair and a large desk for anyone on a work trip.
We were greeted with a bottle of champagne and a dessert offering and were impressed with the in-room coffee machine.
The hotel amenities included a gym and a rooftop infinity pool, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the pool or a workout.
I was pleased to discover the Tantara Thai massage + spa on the ground floor offering massages, facials and spa packages which left me feeling completely relaxed and refreshed.
Eats
The central location meant there were countless restaurants and cafes nearby, however it was hard to look past the in-house offerings. Sixteen Antlers Rooftop Bar is perched 16 floors above the Brisbane CBD with sweeping view of the city skyline and a perfect vantage point for sunset.
The happy hour cocktails and snacks were an added bonus. Looking out at the historic Brisbane City Hall Clocktower, this bar seemed like a popular spot for the after-work crowd, and was perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks, with the DJ providing the atmosphere.
This would also provide a perfect setting
for a rooftop party or corporate soiree. On the ground floor, the Goldfinch restaurant was the perfect spot for buffet breakfast, lunch or intimate dinner and provided excellent people watching.
The hanging roof garden provides an atrium feel, and the floor to ceiling windows allow us to watch the world go by outside while enjoying some seriously good food in this sophisticated sidewalk restaurant.
The Mediterranean menu had a distinctive native Aus-
tralian flair. For dinner the wagyu rump with mountain pepper berry jus and the pan seared barramundi with saltbush were excellent choices, followed by the dark chocolate mousse dessert with a raspberry coulis and Kakadu plum.
This restaurant would also be a great choice for any private functions.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or accommodation for a business trip, the Pullman makes it effortless and memorable.
Emma Wilson
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Amrum - The Review
Amrum is a slow film that explores the complexities of wartime life in Germany for everyday Germans far removed from the most famous atrocities, and the degrees of guilt and innocence in this far-removed community of complicity.
JACOB RICHARDSON
DIRECTED by Fatih Akin, whose usual work is a lot more provocative than this, Amrum was actually written by another famed German director - Hark Bohm.
fairytale-like quest from a young German boy Nanning (Jasper Billerbeck), who is living in the whaling community of Amrum during the last days of WWII, as a transplant from the mainland for safety reasons with his mother, siblings and aunt.
As the Third Reich falls, and his mother becomes almost comatose in her grief, he goes on a quest to find white bread, butter and honey to cheer her up.
Bohm fell ill before he could complete the film, so asked his friend Akin to step in and direct. And what we get is a film that alludes, more than interrogates, the complexities, nuances and controversies that are so clearly on display here.
quickly. About learning his parents are maybe not the good guys in this situation.
About suicide and death, Nazi retribution and the crumbling days of a villainous empire. But this film is happy to let those moments slide by as window dressing. Akin, unusually, seems reticence to really dig into any of it.
Instead, this plays as a piece more focussed on the journey of this young boy.
Some moments hit - like the eventual success Nanning finds, the moments of him wading with the bike through the water, or the elements of him listening to the radio or skinning a rabbit.
But many others don’t; in particular his unrelenting devotion to his mother, and a pseudo-relationship with two refugees who farewell him as he leaves the island.
Throughout it all, Akin builds a suite of sweeping inserts and interstitials that showcase intriguing life on the island; from smoked fish swinging in the breeze to big wide drone shots.
The island is undeniably beautiful, but some of the work here feels redundant. And through it all, a few famous faces appear - Diane Kruger and Matthias Schweighöfer, who both appear in remarkably brief performances.
Overall, Amrum is an intriguing moment in time to take a look at, and the central quest is a workable one that provides a strong structure.
But the realisation of this story never really feels compelling or revelatory. With a flatline of an emotional buildup, and an ending that feels somewhat unearned, Amrum ultimately fizzles.
Amrum is placid, content to observe its moment rather than interrogate it. 3 stars.
THE ROYAL CRICKETER’S ARMS
One of the last roadside hotels
BY HISTORY EDITOR, LES TOD
ONE of the last of the original roadside hotels that were located on the old Great Western Highway between Sydney and Bathurst, the Cricketer’s Arms is built on part of the original 2000 acre land grant to Robert Lethbridge, which he called “Flushcombe”
James Manning bought portion of this in 1877 and built the Cricketer’s Arms on the corner of what was the old highway and Flushcombe Road, facing Prospect Reservoir.
He also owned the land north to Lancelot Street, which he later sold to William Campbell, who built the magnificent mansion, “Flushcombe Turrets”. It is believed the Cricketer’s Arms opened in 1879.
It was described as a two storey brick and timber building with solid brick walls on the ground floor and timber walls on the upper floor, with dormer windows, a cellar under the bar, and a front verandah.
James Manning soon extended the building by erecting the Flushcombe Stores beside it, and built a racetrack and cricket pitch, which made the hotel very popular with locals.
The Stores were run by Manning and Neeve, another local family, and featured “lowest cash prices” in groceries, beef, boots, clothing and ironmongery. The hotel did well, partially because the Prospect Reservoir was then under construction with its hundreds of workers.
One can imagine locals spending a hot day playing cricket, having picnics
or watching the races, and of course partaking of refreshments at the hotel.
Win-win for hotel
And one could also make a purchase at the Flushcombe Stores. And visitors to the area could even take a room for the night. It was a win-win for the hotel.
When the reservoir was completed, business drastically declined and James Manning was forced to sell the hotel because of financial problems.
His daughter and son-in-law, E F Cooney, later bought it back and lived there for some years. After passing through further ownership, it became a tea room, having now been de-licensed.
The cricket pitch and racetrack gradually disappeared into the bush and the Flushcombe Stores were eventually pulled down.
In the late 1930s the old inn was sold to Ivan Posa and Ivan Segedin, and in 1941 to Posa himself. He conducted a market garden on the site, and used the inn as a residence for his family.
By that time nobody paid any attention to its history, it was just another old house on a local farm out in the bush.
Things changed drastically in 1963, when the entire site was purchased by Western Drive-in Theatre Pty Ltd, and the market garden was razed for a 700 car drive-in, one of Sydney’s largest, which opened later that year.
Thankfully the Cricketer’s Arms was not demolished, and became a caretaker’s cottage for the drive-in.
Heritage order placed
Eventually it stopped being used at all, and sat deteriorating and forgotten. When the old Great Western Highway was bypassed, few passing motorists now saw the old inn sitting on top of the hill, except those going to the drivein theatre, and they would have paid little attention to it in the darkness anyway.
As the years passed, the cottage was abandoned as the drive-in no longer
needed a caretaker, and it became vandalised and dilapidated.
Realising its importance, in 1989 the Department of Planning placed a heritage order on the building and bought the site because of its rarity as a Victorian era roadside inn.
In fact, it was the only remainder of the inns which had been located between Sydney and Penrith. Conservation and restoration work was carried out and then the hotel was put up for lease.
It has had a number of lessees since that time, but continues to function as a licensed hotel on its original site in the style of an old English pub. It became popular for its live music and trivia nights and is again being used for its original purpose.
The old winding section of the highway is now known as Reservoir Road, and the southern end of Flushcombe Road is now Cricketer’s Arms Road, having been bisected by the later highway by-pass.
Behind the inn, the Atura Hotel has been built, and the drive-in theatre also continues to operate, the last of its type in metropolitan Sydney, making the site a unique one in terms of cultural and social significance, with its links to the early Prospect farming district and the Manning and Neeves families.
The Cricketer’s Arms, a building itself of historical and social significance now approaching its 150th anniversary, is one of few remaining structures relating to the original Prospect village, which has entirely vanished except for the former post office and St Bartholomew’s Church and cemetery.
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