STEP INTO A FAIRY TALE
Event Details
THIS October, Parramatta’s historic Old Government House will transform into an enchanted realm as it hosts "Once Upon a Grimm Night," an immersive theatre experience that brings beloved fairy tales to life. Presented by Odyssey Theatre and supported by City of Parramatta Council, the production invites audiences to step into a world where the lines between story and reality blur, and adventure awaits at every turn. In "Once Upon a Grimm Night," you and other wayfarers have stumbled into the domain of the Narrator. Characters from Everafter are spilling into our realm, and the worlds are on the brink of collapse. Join the quest with Grimm Volkov to uncover the truth, brew potions, and delve into the unfinished stories of the Maiden and the Witch. You can expect a night of immersive storytelling in Australia’s oldest surviving public building, the World Heritage-listed Old Government House, where centuries of history meet the magic of fairy tales.
• Dates: October 3–25, 2025 (selected Fridays & Saturdays).
• Location: Old Government House, Parramatta.
• Tickets: www.odysseytheatre.com.au/once-upon-a-grimm-night- parramatta.
• Ages: Recommended [12+] (mild peril, low lighting, audience interaction)
The cast from Once Upon A Grimm Night.
www.parramattatimes.com.au www.facebook.com/parramattatimes www.linkedin/parramattatimes ISSUE
How
PARRAMATTA'S TRUSTED LOCAL MEDIA VOICE
Council wants a Roxy revival
CITY of Parramatta is calling on the NSW Government to invest in the revitalisation of Roxy Theatre and restore it to its full potential as a premier live music and entertainment venue in the heart of Western Sydney.
The Roxy Theatre is critical to Parramatta’s global vision to establish a vibrant hub for culture, nightlife and entertainment in the CBD with Civic Link and the future Metro West projects taking shape.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said Parramatta is becoming an epicentre of culture and creativity and a restored Roxy Theatre would boost Parramatta’s ability to attract and develop the next generation of performers.
“Now is the time to invest in the Roxy Theatre, it’s critical to our global transformation and vision of creating a thriving cultural precinct in our CBD,” Cr Zaiter said.
“Powerhouse Parramatta,
SRiverside Theatres and Civic Link are City-shaping projects already
in the pipeline so we’re calling on the NSW Government to back the revitalisation of this iconic Western Sydney venue.
“This is about celebrating our rich diversity and culture and making sure everyone in Western Sydney has the opportunity to experience the best performances and entertainment here in our City.
At a Council meeting on 11 August, Council approved the Lord Mayor writing to the NSW Government calling for them to explore the purchase and restoration of the Roxy Theatre as a live music and entertainment venue.
The Roxy Theatre, located on George Street in the CBD, is a state heritage-listed building and was once a cinema, theatre, nightclub and bar. The iconic venue has been closed since 2014.
SOP reaffirms green leadership
YDNEY Olympic Park is reaffirming its leadership in environmental excellence with the release of updated Environmental Guidelines—setting a
new framework for sustainable urban development in the suburb. Building on its legacy as the host of the world’s first “Green Games” in 2000, the draft guidelines will
or 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.
shape the Authority’s environmental and sustainability objectives in accordance with the SOPA Act. These comprehensive goals align with the strategic vision
of the draft Master Plan 2050 to produce practical and measurable outcomes that support climate resilience and long-term sustainability.
WE SUPPORT empowers individuals with disabilities, the aged and people of all ages in need of support to explore brighter future.
W WE SUPPORT delivers a comprehensive guide to providers working in Australia’s most dynamic and diverse region Greater Western Sydney and is published in four popular Western Sydney media brands each quarter.
Schools bonanza across Parramatta
THE NSW Government is continuing to deliver much needed new and upgraded schools, with major upgrades now underway at Dundas Public School.
The project will see all demountable classrooms – some of which have been in place for almost two decades – replaced with a new building featuring six classrooms, two multipurpose spaces, two learning commons, and a range of upgraded amenities.
Stephen Edwards Constructions has been appointed as the contractor for the upgrade, with works set to be complete by the end of 2026.
As part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to deliver for growing Western Sydney communities, projects are underway across the greater Parramatta area, including school upgrades, a new high school and new public preschools.
Once complete the 16 upgrade projects will see more than 200 demountables removed from schools in the Parramatta area and replaced with high-quality, permanent school facilities.
Projects include:
• Carlingford West Public School upgrade.
• Cumberland High School upgrade.
• Darcy Road Public School upgrade.
• Dundas Public School upgrade.
• Ermington West Public School upgrade and new public preschool.
• Girraween Public School upgrade.
• Melrose Park new high school.
• Melrose Park Public School redevelopment.
• Newington Public School upgrade.
• Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School upgrade.
• Northmead Public School upgrade.
• Oatlands Public School new public preschool.
• Parramatta East Public School upgrade.
• Rydalmere Public School upgrade.
• Rydalmere East Public School upgrade.
• Telopea Public School upgrade.
• Wentworth Point Public School upgrade (Stage 2).
• Westmead Public School upgrade.
These projects are part of the NSW Government’s
$3.9B investment in rebuilding public education across Western Sydney, ensuring growing communities have access to world-class education close to home.
This follows the government’s delivery of more teachers for children by reducing teacher vacancies by 61 per cent, resulting in the number of cancelled classes recorded in NSW nearly halving since the government took office.
Member for Parramatta Donna Davis said: “I’m proud that the Government is delivering real improvements for local families, delivering better schools and more teachers to give our kids the world-class education they deserve, right where they live. “This is a big win for our school communities in Parramatta.”
Changed traffic conditions at intersection
ROAD users are advised of changed traffic conditions at the Polding Street and Liverpool-Parramatta Transitway intersection, Prairiewood to carry out traffic light upgrades and install
CCTV. Work will take place for up to five nights between Tuesday 2 September and Sunday 14 September 2025, weather permitting. If required, we may work up to an additional three-night shifts during the
Rookwood Catholic Cemetery
A sacred place of rest for generations
same period. Work hours are from 8pm to 5am, Sunday to Thursday. No work will occur on Friday or Saturday nights. There will be temporary traffic changes while we complete this work. This includes lane clo-
For nearly 160 years, Rookwood Catholic Cemetery has been a place of peace, remembrance, and Catholic tradition - welcoming people of all faiths.
With landscaped grounds, historic chapels, and Sydney’s only Catholic crematorium, families can honour their loved ones with dignity and compassion.
sures and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h.
› Dedicated Catholic lawns and chapels
› Sydney’s only Catholic crematorium
› Memorial and inscription services now available, with easy arrangement through our office
Contact our friendly team to explore our burial, cremation and monumentation options all tailored to your family’s needs.
MP Donna Davis at the sod turning ceremony for Dundas Public School.
Smart parking comes to Parramatta
PARKING in Parramatta is now faster and stress-free, with the introduction of smart parking technology at Council’s three major car parks.
Parramatta Station, Justice Precinct and Eat Street car park stations now have number plate recognition, ticketless parking, real-time parking guidance, upgraded lighting and CCTV.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the upgrades were
For more details on the upgrades, visit www.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au.
Aabout providing a better customer experience.
“Ticketless parking means no more paper jams, tickets being inserted incorrectly and wasted time locating the ticket and, even worse, the stress of losing it,” Cr Zaiter said.
“Like Parramatta Square and PAC car parks, Licence Plate Recognition technology reads each vehicle’s number plate on entry and exit, records the time of stay and calculates the parking fee.
“This is just another part of Council’s Customer Experience Trans-
formation Plan designed to create a consistent and seamless customer experience across every channel, including accessing our car parks.”
Additionally, electric vehicle char-
Local man wins Lotto
PARRAMATTA man had no hesitation in deciding how he would best use his $2.5M prize from the weekend’s Saturday Lotto win – buying his and his wife’s dream home. The Sydney winner held one of the eight division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4605 on Saturday 6 September 2025. Each division one winning entry scored $2.5M. “It’s wonderful!” he cried when his win was confirmed by an official from The Lott. “We will buy our first home! We’ve been renting our entire lives. This is our dream coming true – no longer paying rent. “When
Public Notice and Registration of Interest
12 Grand Avenue Rosehill City of Parramatta Consultation for Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report
ACE Property Development Group Pty Ltd propose to redevelop a land parcel at 12 Grand Avenue in the City of Parramatta as a State Significant Development (SSD). SEARs to be issued for the project will require preparation of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR).
In accordance with the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents (DECCW 2010) individuals and groups are invited to register their interest to participate in the consultation and to be involved in the development of the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment report or the project.
ACE Rosehill Pty Ltd
Brent Winning E: bmwinning@claron.com.au or
Dominic Steele (DSCA) E: dsca@outlook.com.au
The registration period closes on 1 October 2025
The consultation period closes on 1 November 2025
I went to tell my wife, I first brought her a glass of water and a chair, and told her that there wasn’t anything wrong. She might have thought someone had died. “I said, ‘what’s your dream?’. She said, “my dream is to have our own home’. I then told her the dream has come true. Normally,
I only play Powerball, but I had a win and so decided to play Saturday Lotto. Across Australia, there were eight division one winning entries in Saturday Lotto draw 4605 – three each in New South Wales and Victoria, and one each in Queensland and Tasmania.
Public Notice and Registration of Interest Macquarie and Hunter Streets City of Parramatta Consultation for Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report
The SH Group propose to redevelop a land parcel in the City of Parramatta bounded by Macquarie Street and Hunter Street as a State Significant Development (SSD). SEARs to be issued for the project will require preparation of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR).
In accordance with the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents (DECCW 2010) individuals and groups are invited to register their interest to participate in the consultation and to be involved in the development of the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment report or the project.
Mathew Daniel Pacific Planning Property | Project Management | Planning E: mdaniel@pacificplanning.com.au or
Dominic Steele (DSCA) E: Dominic Steele dsca@outlook.com.au
The registration period closes on 1 October 2025
The consultation period closes on 1 November 2025
gers have been installed at Parramatta Station car park as more commuters switch to EV vehicles.
Plan your trip and find the best spot using our Parking Finder map.
Justice precinct parking station.
Rightsizing at the Right Time
ONE NIGHT ONLY
16th September 2025, 5pm – 8pm Visy Dior Hotel, Castle Hill.
Join Stockland Halcyon Gables and two of Australia’s most sought-after financial and well-being commentators for an inspiring evening of economic insights, lifestyle tips and real-life advice on your next chapter.
Design your next chapter with confidence — discover how to choose a home that suits your lifestyle today and into the future, make informed financial decisions that offer flexibility and freedom, and enjoy a simpler, more social way of living in a supportive, like-minded community.
Featuring
special guest speakers:
Dr. Darren Morton is an awardwinning lifestyle medicine expert who will inspire you with fun, practical tips for staying healthy, happy and active in your next chapter.
Michael Pascoe, a financial commentator with five decades of experience, brings wisdom, clarity and a touch of wit to the big questions about money, markets and the future.
Halcyon Gables
Discover exclusive townhome living in Oran Park.
Inviting you to enjoy the best of both worlds, Oran Park townhomes combine the space of a house with a backyard and the low-maintenance qualities of apartment living.
You can choose from an exceptional selection of architecturally designed townhomes located near all the town’s popular amenities and most loved attractions. Ideal for growing families, downsizers and couples, these distinctive residences offer excellent value-for-money.
• Spacious, designer interiors
• Landscaped grounds
• Two to five-bedroom layouts
• Private porches and courtyards
• Family-friendly living areas
• Premium finishes and inclusions
• Tranquil locations
Ready for you to move in, these elegant townhomes are curated for comfort and practicality. A beautiful lifestyle in one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs awaits.
Arena - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Circuit - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
Civic Collection - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes Banksia - Typical example of Oran Park townhomes
The Residences -
Typical example of Oran Park townhomes TOWNHOMES
SWR 99.9 FM –Loud, Live & Local!
OUR SPONSORS:
Your Voice. Your Community. Your Station. Sydney’s West has it's very own community radio station – broadcasting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from our studios in Blacktown Showground. Whether you're tuning in for music, local news, or diverse cultural programming, SWR brings the heartbeat of Sydney's West straight to your speakers. From Horsley Park to the heart of the city, our signal reaches across most of the Sydney metropolitan area –and our passion for community reaches even further. No experience? No problem! At SWR 99.9 FM, we believe everyone has a story to tell. That’s why we offer opportunities for anyone to start their own show. Whether you're into music, talkback, culture, or comedy – we’ll help you get on the air. Join us today and become part of a vibrant, creative community. Visit swr999.com.au to learn more and express your interest.
With years of experience in the voice-over industry, Nicole Senior has lent her voice to major campaigns for brands including (but not limited to) Aussie Broadband, Helloworld Travel, SumUp, Maxwell & Williams, The Salvation Army, Blackmores, 1800 GOT JUNK?, QV Skincare, TAS Police, and Melbourne Airport. Working remotely from her professional Studiobricks VO Edition voice booth, Nicole delivers clear, engaging performances tailored to each client’s tone and style. Beyond voiceovers, she writes, produces, and hosts podcasts, bringing together creative storytelling, technical precision, and a deep understanding of brand messaging. Her work reflects a blend of professionalism, warmth, and versatility –making her a trusted voice across radio, digital, and commercial platforms.
Contact SWR 99.9 FM
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Education for business and life success, delivered from real-world experience...
WEXPO is Western Sydney’s premier business expo - connecting professionals, entrepreneurs, managers and industry leaders through networking, exhibitors and growth opportunities.
WEXPO presenters and panels are selected for their real world experience and suspect matter expertise. You can reserve your FREE space at any of our 2025 panels or speakers via the QR codes.
AI in Action: Hype, Help or Hindrance?
AI is everywhere, but is it helping your business?
In this candid, no-fluff panel, four experts explore how small and midsize businesses can cut through the noise to make AI understandable, effective, and safe. From real-world use cases to navigating vendor hype, we’ll cover what makes AI worth the
Kate Dodd
Founder and Director Intent Strategy
Careen Matthews Humaneer
investment, when it adds complexity, and how to approach it without overhauling everything overnight. Expect grounded insights, practical tools for decision-making, and a clear-eyed look at AI’s possibilities and limitations in today’s business context. Panelists include:
WEXPO Panel: 9.30am- 10.15am
Olga Papageorgiou
Partner Oliver Wight Asia Pacific
John-Paul Costales
Founder Be Useful
How Western Sydney changed the World
Bernie Fehon managing partner at Fehon Strategy & Design is the founder of the Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Bernie will present on How Western Sydney Changed The World. He’ll share his journey of starting and growing one the world’s most successful charity movements – The CEO Sleepout - from Merrylands in Western Sydney some 20 years ago. On one of the coldest nights of the year, business, community, and government leaders sleep outdoors to experience a fraction of what
people without secure housing endure nightly. Participants commit to raising a minimum amount to support Vinnies’ services for those at risk of or experiencing homelessness. In 2025, the CEO Sleepout marked its 20th anniversary, raising over $8.3M nationally, with $2.5M contributed by NSW alone. Bernie’s concept has been adapted in many places throughout the world.
WEXPO Presentation: 10.30am- 11.15am
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
CashNO to CashFLOW – Business Growth and Performance Strategies
Too many business owners get stuck chasing revenue, without building the systems and structures that create profitable, sustainable, and saleable business assets. This session reframes that mindset— shifting the focus away from vanity metrics and profit-killing habits, toward active asset building and strategic business management. Absolutely zero talk about keeping the tax man happy or learning to love your numbers. It’s all about simple, fresh ideas you can use to design a business that grows
Farid Zaki Director ATP Accounting & Taxation Professionals
and performs financially - not one that survives on sheer passion and grit, leaving nothing in the tank, or in the bank. In this dynamic panel our experts will unpack how strong business process design, active performance visibility, good management and the right financial structure can turn any business into a valuable, scalable asset. Expect easy and practical insights, a few laughs, actionable strategies, zero death by spreadsheet, and a fresh take on what it really means to grow a business. Panelists include:
Tina Clark CEO / Finance Broker Auscorp
Finance
WEXPO Presentation: 11.30am- 12.15am
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Cate Kemp CEO/ Financial and Performance Coach, The Control Room
Bernie Fehon OAM
Trademark Expert shares Insider Tips for Success
As the general manager of Applied Marks, Binh Rey sure knows trademarks. When you protect your brand, you protect your future business value. That’s why trademarks and brand protection is not restricted to big or multi-national companies. Businesses of all sizes have the right to operate with security and without fear of infringement. With over 15 years of marketing industry
experience, 12 years of trademark industry experience, and over an impressive 1,500 trademarks filed, Binh is perfectly positioned to inform businesses of all sizes about trademark value and share insider details around the processes involved in securing your trademark.
WEXPO Presentation: 12.30am- 1.00pm
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Creating Social and Digital Marketing ROI in 2025
Presented by award-winning social media and digital marketing expert, George Hawwa from global social media agency, Attention Experts this session covers the fundamental changes that have developed that every marketer/business owner needs to know to perform and create ROI in their campaigns. From understanding the latest in algorithms, to the basic marketing formulas to execute a successful campaign, to creating ample opportunity for your organization, this workshop will also ensure that you are covered when it comes to understanding the major metrics to track and knowing what to report.
Also, being able to develop out of the box thinking not just with social media but also EDM, Google Ads and SEO. George is the founder and owner of global social media & digital agency Attention Experts, which was started in 2016 is today Australia’s most highly rated and awarded social media agency. He has worked on social media strategy, digital strategy, management and analysis across over 30 different industries with companies across the world.
WEXPO Presentation: 1.15pm- 2.00pm
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Binh Rey Trademark Expert
George Hawwa Attention Experts
The Fixers: From Stress to Strategy in Cash Flow, Tax Debt & Finance
When cash dries up, the right support can keep the doors open — or not. Most business owners only look at cash flow once the ATO comes knocking, the account dips, or creditors start chasing. By then, you’re reacting — not planning. At WEXPO 2025, we’re flipping that script. Join a practical, solutionfocused panel featuring three finance specialists who tackle business pressure daily — from tax debt and cash flow gaps to funding missteps.
Meet the Panel
Michael Moon Tax Debt Negotiator, Tax Assure
What You’ll Learn:
• How to take control of cash flow before it breaks.
• What most businesses get wrong about ATO debt — and how to avoid costly mistakes.
• How to reduce ATO debt (not just defer it).
• Why the wrong finance solution can make things worse.
• What works when cash is tight and pressure is rising. Come with questions. Leave with strategies you can use.
Renati Barel Finance Specialist, World Class Finance
WEXPO Panel: 2.15pm- 3.00pm
Jason Cantore Associate Director, Murchisons
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
Grow Your Business with Smart Marketing and Grants
This panel delves into what works and what doesn’t in the world of modern marketing and advertising. Real strategies, real results — marketing that connect with your chosen community. Our panel will explore the
Sheila Cabacungan
Partnership expert, SWR 99.9 FM
Laura Hall Co-founder, Helio
value and effectiveness of social media, SEO traditional advertising and relationship driven campaigns in the context of being competitive and growing a strong and sustainable business. Panelists include:
WEXPO Panel: 3.15pm- 4.00pm
Christine Artis Director of the Funding and Grants Collective
Pulkit Agrawal
SEO Director and Founder of UR Digital
This session is FREE but requires registration. Scan the QR code to reserve your place for this session.
LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS WINNERS
Parramatta’s best businesses
shine
THIS year’s Parramatta Local Business Awards was a sensational spectacular that provided a fitting finale to the annual event.
This year’s winners exchanged hugs while cheers filled the room as they made their way to the stage on Wednesday, 6th August.
Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said the evening was an exciting culmination to a successful awards program.
“The Local Business Awards recognise the vital role business people play in the lives of their communities,” he said. “The presentation evening not only sees the announcement of the category winners but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all the finalists.
“We had a sell-out crowd that included our finalists, their families and staff, as well as our partners and local dignitaries who helped to present awards to the winners.”
Excitement filled the room as the finalists in each category were announced, complete with images on the big screen, followed by applause as the winners’ names were read out and they took to the stage
to claim their trophies.
“The winners’ speeches are always heartfelt and emotional,” Mr Loe said. “This year was no exception.”
As official media partner for the Parramatta Local Business Awards, the Parramatta Times will publish a winners’ feature, that commends all category winners from the presentation evening.
“Of course, the awards are only possibly with the ongoing support of our Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partner: NOVA Employment and Support Partners: The Epping Club and White Key Marketing. Mr Loe said, “their involvement proves their commit ment to their community and the businesses that thrive there.”
Mr Loe also thanked The Epping Club for the high quality food and service it provided. “Thanks to them it was a five-star occasion,” he said.
“I would also like to acknowledge the remarkable talent who provided entertainment on the evening and our excellent MC Chris Ninni who kept the evening flowing smoothly.”
Businesses can register for the 2026 Local Business Awards at www.thebusinessawards. com.au
Our menu combines the vibrant flavours of Modern Australian cuisine with Mediterranean flair, using the best Australian produce from local growers who share our passion for quality, resulting in a unique and seasonally inspired dining experience. Designed for sharing without limits, our menu invites you to sit back and embark on a sensory journey throughout Modern Australia and the Mediterranean. Let our innovative and tantalizing dishes awaken your palate.
CAKE MANIA is all about making special cakes, and it doesn't matter what 'special' means to you. It could be a special occasion, some dietary requirements you may have, or anything else in between. Whatever you want, Cake Mania is more than happy to create the perfect pastry for you Cake Mania is all about making special cakes. Everything that we bake at Cake Mania is of restaurant quality and tastes like it came fresh from your nana's kitchen. We bake fresh to suit any occasion or dietary requirements. Our range of egg-less, sugar free, nut free and gluten free pastries.
• BIRTHADAY CAKES
• BABY SHOWER CAKES
• WEDDING CAKES
• GLUTEN FREE CAKES
• NOVELTY CAKES
• CUP CAKES
So you are looking for a pastry?
Searching high and low for something to make your occasion perfect? Unable to find what you're after because of a special requirement? No problem!
As a pastry chef with over twenty five years experience, I have narrowed down the baking of my pastries to a fine form. Everything that we bake at Cake Mania is of restaurant quality and tastes like it came fresh from your nana's kitchen. We bake fresh on site any occasion or dietary requirements. Our range of egg-less, sugar free, nut free, gluten free, dairy free and vegan cakes pastries retain the great taste of our standard products.
Stopping the residential abuse
THE Australian Resident Accommodation Managers Association (ARAMA) has launched a campaign to address rising abuse within residential complexes. CEO Trevor Rawnsley said incidents of intimidation, verbal tirades, and even physical assaults are escalating in strata communities, affecting residents, committees, and managers. The campaign aims to create psychologically safe communities through education, policies, and a statement of intent promoting respect at meetings. Many managers support the ini-
Why many are cutting back travel
AUSTRALIANS are rethinking travel. An Insure&Go survey of 1,009 people found 66% will cut back or seek cheaper options, with 47% locking in airfare sales, 30% chasing bundled deals and 20% booking last-minute. While two-thirds prioritise price, many also value flexibility and inclusions like meals or tours. Domestic costs are rising too, with airfares up 13.7% and accommodation 5.3%. Insure&Go advises travellers not to compromise on insurance despite tighter budgets.
tiative, noting abuse comes from a minority but change is overdue.
Special paramedics finish training
THIRTY-one doctors in training and four trainee critical care paramedics have completed intensive training at NSW’s Aeromedical Crewing Excellence Centre. The program prepares teams for high-stakes missions, including helicopter rescues, water recovery, and complex trauma care. NSW Ambulance aeromedical teams, supported by 71 consultants and 38 registrars, respond to over 10,000 incidents annually. The training ensures world-class care across NSW, with many trainees seeking permanent positions in these highly specialised and life-saving roles.
These boxes ship to over 10,000 postcodes around Australia, and come from one of our most popular farms. They meet the highest Farmer to Fridge standards of quality, packing and communication our farmers have to offer!
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Great Reviews
Growing trend in funeral services
NEW research shows 63% of Australians are surprised funeral services remain unregulated, prompting the Australian Funeral Directors Association to rebrand as Funerals Australia and call for uniform standards. Australians prioritise ethics (88%), professional training (85%) and regulation (73%), but confidence in organising funerals is low (31%). Modern funerals are shifting from religious traditions to personalised celebrations, with trends including green burials, VR memorials and living funerals. The rebrand marks AFDA’s 90th year, reflecting evolving values and expectations.
Feedback on youth homelessness
AIHW data reveals 13,300 unaccompanied children aged 12–17 sought homelessness services in 2023–24, with 77% remaining homeless after support. Most are fleeing violence, abandonment or neglect, and 63% are girls. Disturbingly, 520 children known to services died over the past decade, with suicide the leading cause. Advocates say services lack resources and child-specific housing, urging urgent national action to protect vulnerable children from homelessness, trauma and preventable deaths.
teachers feeling the pressure
UNSW Sydney research reveals 90% of Australian teachers suffer severe stress, and nearly 70% say their workload is unmanageable. Surveying 5,000 teachers, the study found depression, anxiety and stress rates three times the national norm, driven by excessive administrative tasks. Poor mental health strongly links to intentions to leave, worsening teacher shortages. Researchers urge urgent reforms to cut non-essential workload, improve wellbeing monitoring, and invest in mental health support to retain educators and protect student outcomes.
Overdue surgeries have been cut
NSW has cut overdue surgeries by more than 6,000 since March and nearly 12,000 since March 2023, thanks to $186M in funding and a further $23M announced in the 2025-26 Budget. By June, overdue surgeries dropped to around 2,500, down from 8,500 in March. NSW now leads Australia with 85.3% of patients admitted within recommended timeframes. Same-day surgeries and governance reforms are improving access, sustainability, and patient experiences across the public health system.
At Parramatta Health Centre, we love providing outstanding dental and eyecare to our wonderful customers in the Parramatta area. So we’re thrilled to be a winner at the Parramatta Local Business Awards for the 6th time!
For award-winning dental and eyecare, come and say hello at 60 Phillip Street Parramatta or book an appointment at teachershealth.com.au/parramatta. Everyone is welcome.
CLICK SMARTER, NOT HARDER
How AI is changing shopping habits
FROM bagging a bargain to tracking prices or matching the perfect lipstick to your skin tone, Aussies are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) as their new online shopping companion.
New research from PayPal Australia reveals nearly half of Australians (48%) are already using AI for online product search – rising to 66% for those under 45. Additionally, 78% of Australians expect AI shopping tools will become a mainstream part of online shopping in the future.
Many Australians see practical benefits and potential savings from using AI-powered shopping assistants. Price tracking and deal alerts are the most appealing features (38%), followed by summaries of reviews or user opinions (35%), order tracking (33%), and product comparisons (30%).
Features like AI-generated product summaries (24%), visual search (29%), augmented reality try-ons (26%), and virtual walk-throughs for real estate or holidays (26%) are also gaining interest, particu-
larly among younger Australians.
“Australians are rapidly embracing AI as a savvy shopping companion – one that makes finding the right product faster, easier and more personal. From surfacing the best deals to tailoring recommendations to your style and needs, AI is turning online shopping into a smarter, more intuitive experience,” says Cathy Jamieson, Head of Consumer Research at PayPal Australia.
Smart tools, real benefits… still evolving
While AI offers many benefits, it’s still an emerging technology. Almost 6-in-10 Australians (59%) say they’ve received online shopping results from AI that were unexpected, or downright laughable. This is especially true for younger generations, with 81% of Gen Z and 69% of Millennials experiencing odd recommendations, compared to 50% of Gen X and 36% of Baby Boomers.
However, despite this, 3-in5 Australians (61%) say they’d trust AI to make product recommendations and over half of Australians (53%) say they plan to use AI tools for online shopping within the next 12 months.
“The technology is still evolving and many of us are figuring out how to get the most out of it. The real power of AI lies in how you use it – clear, specific prompts can make a big difference. When used well, AI is a powerful way to save money, time and effort when you shop online. It’s about leaning to guide the AI, sticking to trusted platforms, and being prepared to refine your questions when the responses go a bit off track,” says Cathy.
Another area where Australians are engaging with AI in online shopping is through customer service and sales chatbots. 66% of Australians feel that when AI tries too hard to “be human”, it can come off as inauthentic or insincere.
Privacy and security matter
AI is becoming so seamlessly integrated into the shopping experience that 65% of Australians believe they’ve probably interacted with AI without knowing it.
That said, privacy and security are key concerns. 92% of Australians have at least one concern about using AI in online shopping, with the privacy and security of personal information being the top concern (64%).
Despite this, 57% of Australians say they are willing to share online shopping habits and preferences to better personalise AI shopping recommendations and reap the benefits of AI shopping assistance. However, 30% say they’d only engage with AI shopping solutions from brands or platforms they trust.
About the research.? Produced by PayPal Australia, based representative. Quotas and samples were set on turnover and location. The research was fielded from 14 –16 May 2025.
KANGAROO – THE REVIEW
Kangaroo isn’t breaking any boundaries, but the roos are undeniably cute as hell
BY JACOB RICHARDSON
WHEN TV weatherman Chris Masterman (Ryan Corr) accidentally kills a dolphin, he is shunned by society. Desperate for his next gig, he returns to WA but finds himself stuck in the town of Silvergum when his car breaks down.
There, he meets Charlie (Lily Whiteley), a young indigenous girl who has recently lost her father, and who is pouring her heart into helping local kangaroos and joeys.
Chris, finding himself in possession of a young joey, forms a bond with Charlie and his new hopping companion, and they work together to rescue and rehabilitate a group of orphaned joeys in the Australian outback.
Directed by Kate Woods, Kangaroo is the sort of film that you can picture every twist and turn of right from the off. There’s nothing here that’s going to blow your socks off from a plot perspective, or indeed from a performance perspective, but it’s undeniably an easy watch.
Ryan Corr is fun as disgraced reporter Chris Masterman, and brings a heap of Sydney-side scumbaggery to the role that can be a lot of fun to watch. He’s ably matched by some of the side characters, particularly Rachel House as a surly bartender and Roy Billing as an out of place Rhodes Scholar with a penchant for fruity cocktails. It is odd that Deborah
Mailman never really registers much as Rosie, and Lily Whiteley isn’t great as Charlie, but neither drag too much on the tale once it gets going.
A big part of this film is the landscape, and the location, and Woods does a great job of making these a hero of the piece.
From the unique trappings of Silvergum in all its quaintness, to
the broad and dominating wide landscapes from drone and on sticks, the film brings to life some of the expanse of the Australian outback, but also does so in a way that feels like it’s a caring and welcoming place, not a hostile one.
The cinematography across the board is proficient, well-constructed and clean; technically excellent, if perhaps missing artistic flair.
But no matter the gripes with the film’s cliche plot or hamfisted dialogue (the latter of which plays a big part in this movie), the saving grace of this picture is the undeniably adorable joey Liz at the heart of it.
Across the board, the kangaroos in this movie are cute, but that lead joey will melt your heart. The way Woods builds Liz into the film, giving this adorable little creature a real personality and heart, is wonderful, and is worth the price of admission alone.
Kangaroo might have been the sort of clichedriven film to skirt by unnoticed, but its lead two legged hopping character, Liz the joey, makes sure this film has staying power 3/5 stars.
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
Inside Travel Group has been connecting people, places and culture for 25 years.
The case for a Cultural Adventure
Beyond the guidebook:
F
OR some, having time away to get lost somewhere completely new and different isn’t a nice-tohave: it’s a necessity.
A cultural adventure means going beyond the guidebook to experience the people, landscapes and food that make a country what it is.
Inside Travel Co-Founder and Director, Alastair Donnelly, says this style of experiential travel is all about encountering what is completely normal for locals, but like nothing visitors have ever seen before.
“Everybody loves to travel. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a day trip close to home or an overseas adventure – travel refreshes, inspires, strengthens relationships and provides fresh perspective.
“It’s a chance to put the day-today aside and experience life in a different way – even if that’s just for a short time – all while creating memories that last a lifetime.” Donnelly said.
Connect with local culture
It’s often the places and experiences travellers don’t expect that make a trip exceptional.
Inside Travel weaves the lesser-known into each trip – including those big, bucket-list sights, too. Whatever sparks curiosity about a country, each trip is
designed to emphasise what excites the traveller, offering a few surprises along the way.
Say a trip to Cambodia is on the cards, and history is the main draw. Visitors can connect with a team of conservationists to slip behind the scaffold at Angkor Wat, revealing how Cambodia’s emblematic
temple is more than a building: it’s a sculpture. Or, if the dream is to make kroeung to flavour Cambodian curries back home, Inside Travel knows just the cookery master who’ll be only too happy to share their craft.
Inside Travel:
Get beneath the surface
For the past 25 years, B Corp
Certified Inside Travel – the team behind award-winning brands InsideJapan and InsideAsia – has lived and breathed travel to Japan and Asia. The company’s founding concept was not built around traditional tourism, but rather on a desire to share the places they loved with as many people as possible, through the lens of experience and connection.
www.insidejapantours.com/au/ www.insideasiatours.com/au
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
INSIDEJAPAN’S Small Group Travel Difference
Experience local life
INSIDEJAPAN, part of the award-winning Inside Travel Group and sister brand to InsideAsia, was founded on the belief that travel is all about connection with people, places and culture.
Richard Farmer, InsideJapan’s Group Tour Manager, says InsideJapan’s small group tours are focused on helping travellers experience a slice of local life.
“Our Insiders (tour leaders) are there to encourage and enable conversations between visitors and locals, proving insight so they can join in traditions and return home with stories that can’t be found in any guidebook,” Farmer said.
Why smaller is better
InsideJapan’s small group tours offer intimacy and flexibility that large tours cannot match, with a maximum of 14 travellers.
Smaller groups allow for quieter moments at temples, deeper discussions with local guides, and the ability to securely venture into the under-explored places that haven’t been touched by tourism.
The B Corp Certified operator has been pioneering travel to Japan for 25 years and continues to enable discovery in the unlikeliest of places.
Rather than days spent touring classic sites, travellers might be found learning about the delicate art of the tea ceremony with a local host, feeling the hush of ancient forests in rural Shikoku, or joining an impromptu festival procession that wasn’t on any itinerary.
One recent traveller, Elise from North Sydney, said her experience travelling with InsideJapan was incredibly eye-opening.
“I expected to see beautiful sights – and I did – but I did not expect to fall so deeply in love with Japan,” she said.
“It was the little moments along the way that all added up. Our Insider knew every shop owner, chef and artisan by name
–and that level of personal connection made every day special.
“We journeyed out to places where there were no tourists in sight. The locals were so curious, and one family spent a moment practising their English with us. It just felt so surreal.”
More on InsideJapans Small Group Tours: www.insidejapantours.com/ au/japan-small-group-tours/
Experience ‘Hidden Zen’: www. insidejapantours.com/au/selfguided-japan-holidays/i-hzen/ hidden-zen/
Combatting Overtourism
In response to the growing challenges of overtourism in Japan, InsideJapan has launched its under-tourism initiative – an overtourism strategy aimed at balancing visitor distribution, easing pressure on hotspots, and supporting more responsible travel. At the heart of the strategy is a focus on encouraging visitation to the under-visited regions of Yamaguchi, Nagasaki, Toyama, Nagoya and Aomori – locations spread across the north, central and south of mainland Honshu, as well as the southern island of Kyushu.
Working together with local regions, InsideJapan is helping travellers combine one or more of the locations into their cultural adventure trip in Japan – not just to combat overtourism, but to showcase the uniqueness of Japan’s culture through under-represented places and local communities.
Small group tours designed for intimacy, flexibility and meaningful cultural encounters.
Tokyo Station Conductor - Bullet Train
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
Reimagine Christmas: A Japanese Winter Wonderland
WHILE the festive season
Down Under means backyard BBQs and beach days, just a short flight away, Japan transforms into a winter wonderland.
To help travellers make the most of the season, InsideJapan has added its first-ever tour departures of its popular family-friendly Must-see Japan small group tour over the Christmas and New Year period.
Temples in the snow
Richard Farmer, InsideJapan’s Group Tour Manager, says the temples, mountains and bamboo forests that amaze visitors through the warmer months take on a whole new personality when the temperature drops and the snow falls.
“Winter in Japan is serene, spiritual and sacred – steam rises from bubbling natural springs, and the vibrant orange of Japan’s torii gates stands out brilliantly against the white snow,” Farmer said.
South
WQuirky Christmas, sacred New Year
Christmas in Japan is quirky and fun – think fried chicken dinners and strawberry shortcake. Bright illuminations pop up across the country, temples are dusted with snow, and bamboo forests fall quiet.
However, it’s the New Year (Oshōgatsu) that really defines the season. On New Years, temple bells ring 108 times and shrines fill with locals offering their first prayers of the year, creating a peaceful and deeply cultural atmosphere.
For travellers, it’s a chance to step into a slower pace and soak up Japan’s winter calm, enjoy worldclass food, culture and scenery – all within easy reach of Australia.
Switch the season
Departures are available throughout December and early January, giving travellers the chance to celebrate Christmas, New Year,
or simply escape the heat for a switch of season – with no single supplement for solo travellers and 10% off for travellers under 18.
Korea: Asia’s Rising Star
HEN visitors first arrive in Seoul, they’re often struck by the dizzying mix of neon lights, centuries-old palaces, and the seemingly endless cross-collide of high-tech, ultra-traditional and ultra-trendy suburbs.
While K-pop, K-dramas and skincare innovations have captured the world’s curiosity, behind these cultural exports lies a nation rich in history, natural beauty, exuberant personality and inviting hospitality.
Soul of Korea Small Group Tour
For those wanting to truly immerse themselves in the country, InsideAsia’s Soul of Korea small group tour provides a 10-day journey through South Korea’s cultural highlights.
Designed by destination specialists, this tour is a way for visitors to discover the country’s ancient past, fast-moving modern culture and exceptional food, all in one trip.
Rebecca Barry, InsideAsia’s South Korea Product Designer, says this tour is an action-packed cultural adventure.
“One moment, travellers may be exploring the ceremonial courtyards of Gyeongbokgung Palace, imagining the footsteps of Joseon-era kings, and the next, watching a live K-pop street performance standing amongst a scrum of mega-fans,” Barry said.
“Highlights include wandering through the ancient streets Gyeongju and sleeping in a traditional hanok, sharing meals in family-run restaurants, visiting Jagalchi fish market (the largest in South Korea), and stopping to take part in whatever is new and trending.
“Food is the gateway to South Korea’s culture and travellers will dig into fried chicken and beer in a Seoul back street and share one of the nation’s best-known culinary exports – Korean BBQ –with the group.”
Insider knowledge
Tours are led on the ground by Insider tour leaders who have chosen South Korea as their home, and are fluent in both English and Korean, offering deep knowledge and insight into the destination.
The small group format, with a maximum of 14 travellers, creates an engaging experience, allowing for a greater sense of shared meaning and connection.
Must-see Japan www.insidejapantours.com/au/ japan-small-group-tours/i-msj/ must-see-japan/
Seasons of travel
The Soul of Korea tour departure dates have been carefully selected to maximise each distinct season.
• January-February: Experience Korea in all its wintery glory, with the chance to see a dusting of snow.
• M arch-April: The perfect time to enjoy cherry blossoms that rival Japan’s, blooming across the country.
• May-September: Warm temperatures and lush green landscapes make this a quieter season the prime-time to visit.
• Oc tober-November: Autumn leaves turn golden, painting the countryside in warm tones as the air begins to cool.
South Korea Tours
www.insideasiatours.com/au/ south-korea/soul-of-korea
Oasaji morning service at Zenkoji – Experience on InsideJapan’s Japan Unmasked small group tour
Travel Well
with Emma Wilson
Christmas with a Southeast Asian Twist
IN Southeast Asia, December traditions mix Catholic mass with Buddhist merit-making and lantern-lit riversides. In Vietnam, Christmas is widely celebrated –especially in the south.
Hoi An is a sea of lights. Ho Chi Minh City builds a tropical “winter wonderland” and locals haul Christmas trees across the city on mopeds. Bakeries sell Bûche de Noël (a legacy of French colonialism), and churches host packed midnight services. In Laos, wake early on New Year’s Day to give alms to monks –a spiritual reset for the year ahead. On a Mekong cruise, sail past floating villages and jungle temples, with Vietnamese cooking classes replacing turkey and trimmings.
Family adventure in Southeast Asia
From ethical elephant encounters to Vietnamese cooking competitions and even muddy rice fields, there’s plenty of family fun to be had in Southeast Asia. Here are some of the top experiences recommended by the InsideAsia experts:
Ms Hang’s cookery class, Hoi An (Vietnam)
For children who love messing up the kitchen at home, InsideAsia’s partner in Hoi An, runs a cookery class based around fun, food-focused challenges – from a herb treasure hunt to a spring roll showdown and a mystery pancake flavour challenge.
Angkor Zipline, Siem Reap (Cambodia)
Convincing teens and tweens to explore temples can be tricky –but throw in a ziplining adventure, and the game changes. There is also the chance to see gibbons in their natural habitat in a conservation-friendly way.
The Living Land Farming Experience, Luang Prabang (Laos)
If the family doesn’t mind getting their hands a bit dirty, a farming experience is a great mix of something fun and cultural. Depending on the time of year, guests can help plough, plant, harvest or thresh the rice – wearing a conical hat and going barefoot in the fields, as is the traditional way.
Our top Southeast Asia
Christmas Travel Ideas
Mekong Explorer: www.insideasiatours.com/ multi-country/tailormade-trips/ mke001/mekong-explorer
Vietnam’s Landscapes: www.insideasiatours.com/ vietnam/tailormade-trips/ vls001/vietnams-landscapes
Laos by Rail: www.insideasiatours.com/laos/ tailormade-trips/lbr001/laos-rail
Discover untouched Laos
OFTEN overlooked in favour of its bolder neighbours, landlocked Laos is full of culture, history and surprises – from highspeed rail to UNESCO towns and delicious culinary offerings.
Here are five things to know:
High-speed rail
Up until 2022, the only way to get around the country was in bumpy buses winding their way around unsealed mountain roads. Now, there is a highspeed train that travels between Vientiane and Luang Prabang at 160kmp/h, making it easier than ever to explore this fascinating place.
Remarkable cultural diversity
Laos has a population of around 7.6 million people, yet its home to 49 distinct ethnicities and 160 ethnic groups. Many have their own language, some without a written form. This diversity shapes the nation’s arts, textiles, cuisine and traditions.
Eat everything
Fans of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine will find familiar flavours here – and may be surprised to learn some dishes originated in Laos. Laab, the spicy minced meat ‘salad’ often found in Thailand, is a Lao national dish, as is papaya salad.
French influence
Between 1893 and 1953, Laos was under French rule. There is still a strong French influence in Laos, from its architecture to street names to food. Elegant white plastered art deco and art nouveau facades overlook street markets offering selections of delicious pastries.
Two capitals, one culture
While Vientiane is the recognised administrative capital, Luang Prabang further north is the country’s cultural hub. Until the 16th Century, it was also the capital. Today, this mountain town has UNESCO World Heritage status.
Top five Laos experiences
1. Ride the high-speed rail – Travel at 160km/h through stunning mountain scenery.
2. Sample authentic Lao cuisine – Try laab, papaya salad, and French-inspired pastries.
3. Cruise the Mekong – Sail past floating villages and jungle temples.
4. Step into history in Luang Prabang – Golden temples and French villas await.
5. Meet Laos’ many cultures – Every region offers new traditions, textiles and stories.
Mandalao Elephant Conservation in Laos
Launched in Western Sydney Dementia Care Navigator Service
Western Sydney is home to over a million people, 53% of whom were born overseas, and 58% of whom speak a language other than English at home. With estimates that more than 436,000 Australians are living with dementia, and two-thirds of those living in community, it is crucial that people have access to free navigation tools to get the support they deserve.
WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network are funding the Dementia Care Navigator to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds navigate the health system and access the right support services whilst seeking a dementia diagnosis or following a diagnosis.
What is the Dementia Care Navigator?
The Dementia Care Navigator is designed to support people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to learn about dementia, seek a diagnosis, connect with service providers, and access services at all stages of the dementia journey.
Who can Access it?
The Dementia Care Navigator service is available in Blacktown, Cumberland, Parramatta, and The Hills Local Government areas. It aims to connect people who speak a language other than English to governmentfunded dementia care services and supports. The service offers group information sessions, ongoing one-on-one support, expert advice, and access to translated resources and interpretation services.
The Dementia Care Navigator service is available to:
9 Individuals who primarily speak English as a second language.
9 Those concerned about their memory.
9 People who suspect that someone they know may have dementia.
9 Individuals living with dementia, along with their carers and families.
How to access the Dementia Care Navigator Service:
For more information, to register, or to refer to the service, scan the QR code, visit www.dementia.org.au/get-support or call the National Dementia Helpline at 1800 100 500. Language assistance is available by calling 131 450.
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
Western Sydney Community Dementia Forum
This is a free event Friday 19th September 2025 9:00am - 2:00pm
9:00 - 9:30am Registration commences 9:30am Opening welcome 9:45am Dementia Care Navigator Irene Robinson 10:10am Geriatrican Dr Siu-Ming Yau
The Ballroom, Workers Blacktown 55 Campbell Street, Blacktown
Please register by Thursday 28 August 2025 via QR code or contact wslhd-das@health.nsw.gov.au or call 0434 568 775
10:30am Dementia Doula Monique Pockran 10:50am Morning tea 11:10am Carers lived experience Panel discussion 12:00pm Dementia services Laura Cunningham 12:30pm
Lunch & performance by Black Stallion Square Dance Club 2:00pm Forum concludes
