Parramatta Times - April 2021

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T I M E S

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Minister pushing for more women on Parramatta Council: 3

BEST GIFT SINCE THE OPERA HOUSE POWERHOUSE Parramatta CEO Lisa Havilah is more interested in the flood of excitement over the controversial $920M project than any flood-waters that may lap at its riverside approach. After the recent devastating rains that saw Parramatta River break its banks between the ferry wharf and the site of the museum, Ms Havilah is adamant that the building and its exhibits will not be affected.

FULL STORY PAGE 10

THIS EDITION

TALE OF TWO POOLS

A AUTO: SsangYong's mid-life update: 30 BUSINESS: Retailers reveal solutions: 34 TRENDS: Is love passing you by?: 36

SALVOS: How hope really happens: 19

FTER a few hot summers for swimmers who loved Parramatta and Wentworthville pools and suffered during their closures, relief is on the way. Just a day apart, the refurbished Wentworthville pool opened and the first sod was turned on the spectacular Parramatta Aquatic Centre. Both communities have been without a pool since 2017, the Parramatta Memorial Pool demolished to make way for Bankwest Stadium and the previous Holroyd Council wanting to close the tired Wenty pool

rather than refurbish it. After a bit of a scuffle between Parramatta Council and the NSW Government on who would pay for its replacement, an agreement was reached on funding for the state-of-the-art aquatic centre. And in Wentworthville, a concerted community campaign and the Cumberland Council, saved the beloved pool with an upgrade. While Parramatta residents wait two years for their pool, they are welcome to dive to Wenty.

FULL STORY PAGE 6

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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Liberals on recruiting drive for women Minister leading push to get more women on local councils In the lead-up to the September 4 local government election, there is a concerted push to recruit more Liberal women for Western Sydney councils, particularly Parramatta. Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne is playing an active role in this, aided by Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer. Parramatta has never had an endorsed Liberal female councillor.

 DI BARTOK HERE is a concerted push in the Liberal Party to get more of their women onto local councils, with Liberal Senator for Western Sydney Marise Payne playing a key role.

Ms Payne, who is Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, will be taking time out of her busy schedule to convince women to run for Western Sydney councils, notably Parramatta, in the September poll.

The current Parramatta Council has four women councillors, Deputy Lord Mayor Michelle Garrard from the Our Local Community party; council elder Lorraine Wearne, an Independent; and Labor’s Donna Davis and Patricia Prociv.

The Liberal Party has only officially endorsed candidates for local government since the early 90s and there has never been an endorsed Liberal female councillor at Parramatta.

Liberal Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer for one, wants that to change.

He has confirmed with the Parramatta Times that he is working closely with Marise Payne to “convince some Liberal

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Senator Marise Payne.

women to run for council in September”.

“It’s about time we changed the male domination of Parramatta Council,” Cr Dwyer told the Times.

“Women are 51 per cent of the population after all, and they bring a different perspective to all levels of government.”

One reason for success Cr Dwyer said the women on his council worked well, even if they were not in his Party.

“I would love to see Liberal women on this council,” he said.

One of the reasons Labor was more successful in fielding women was because “many come up through the unions”, with

Parramatta Lord Mayor, Bob Dwyer.

the Liberal Party lacking in that training ground, he said.

But part of the problem was that when Liberal women did put up their hands, they were further down the ticket than the male candidates.

That has to change, Cr Dwyer said.

In other words, if women want to run on a Liberal ticket, there have to be given the best chance of being elected.

Cr Dwyer has identified a number of women working in the community who would make good Liberal councillors–if only they were in the Party.

“Not all the women I have identified are in the Party, and that’s part of the task facing us,” he said.

A spokesman for Ms Payne confirmed that the Senator was keen to convince more women to run for all councils in Western Sydney but had a special focus on Parramatta.

Ms Payne will be commenting further in the coming months.

The elephant in the room, of course, is the current controversy of sexual harassment and discrimination that women face in the blokey world of politics.

The Times hopes to discuss that further with Senator Payne in the countdown to the council elections.

Cumberland Council has only two female councillors, Ola Hamed and Lisa Lake, both Labor.

Easier to recover items left on public transport USTOMERS now have a one-stop shop to recover items lost on public transport, with a new digital system launching to help reunite owners with items they thought were gone forever.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the Lost Property System will bring all transport modes onto one platform, making it easier for customers to submit lost enquiries.

“The Lost Property solution will use automatic matching to increase the likelihood of returning items to the owner. Ultimately, we will see a much more connected system

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so even if they have travelled across multiple modes of transport, the one enquiry can cover off their full journey, “said Mr Constance.

“Historically we have seen around 200 items per day left on our train network and a similar amount for buses. In a typical year we’re seeing around 200,000 items left on the public transport network. Only around 45 per cent of those enquiries get resolved.

The new system is now live and applies to all public transport across the Greater Sydney area and for all NSW TrainLink services.

Customers can submit an enquiry via

the Lost Property webform on www.transportnsw.info, Transport BOT and the Opal Travel app.

The Lost Property Office receives a wide range of items. Below are just a few interesting statistics regarding the amount of lost items received.

• More than 5,000 items are recorded on the lost property registry every month – that’s more than 60,000 items a year.

• Around 1,900 of these items per month are successfully returned to their owners.

• Close to 7,000 items that are unclaimed are sent to auction which occurs once a year.

• Around 2,000 pairs of glasses each year are donated from lost property.

• More than 200 working umbrellas were found on the Sydney Trains network last week alone.

• About 750 emails are received each week looking for lost property.

• The most common lost property items are wallets, mobile phones and Air pods.

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ISSUE 9 | APRIL 2021

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How to get The Times The Parramatta Times is available throughout the Parramatta LGA at 110 strategic locations. To find a location near you visit our website.

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Contacts Editorial: michael@parramattatimes.com.au Admin and General: info@parramattatimes.com.au Editor: Michael Walls michael@parramattatimes.com.au

The Times on the big screen THE Parramatta Times has attracted widespread support since launching back in September 2020. Parramatta’s premier local newspaper is published monthly and distributed across the Parramatta LGA. Recently we worked with

Newsroom News Editor: Di Bartok dibartok@yahoo.com.au News Reporter: Lawrence Machado lawrencemachado@yahoo.com News Reporter: Elizabeth Frias elizfrias@gmail.com Travel Editor: Dallas Sherringham dallas@accessnews.com.au

Experts available to appraise heirlooms

Advertising sales Graham Maughan graham@accessnews.com.au Julie Jackson julie@accessnews.com.au

Administration Rebecca Swaleh info@parramattatimes.com.au

the talented team at EI Media to support their expansion into Western Sydney. EI Media operate a Billboard Network, covering Western Sydney with huge LED billboards. Their goal is to make brands standout. They did a great job with the Parramatta Times!

Roadshow. Australian Unity has arranged a special complimentary valuation event featuring the expects from Lugosi Auctioneers. This is the chance of lifetime to get your appraisal done by the industry leaders.

Guests will have the opportunity to bring a maximum of two heirlooms for valuation on Wednesday, April 21 at Constitution Hill Retirement Community in Northmead.

Experts will be on hand from 11am to 3pm.

Bookings are essential, and the RSVP is April 19. Contact: Zuzana Nevidal on 1300 249 519 or email: znevidal@australianunity.com.au

Community events program IF you have ever wondered how much that precious family heirloom is really worth, well Australian Unity’s experts have the answer. It is amazing how many valuable treasures turn up in Australia, many of them handed down through the generations. We have all watched in awe at the items and values that turn up on shows like Antiques

Design and production Design2Pro, Words and Pixels.

Support Partner The Parramata Times is the official media partner of the Parramatta Chamber of Commerce.

CITY of Parramatta has relaunched its Community Events Grants Program.

Community groups can apply for a share of up to $70,000 to run low-cost or free events that will help attract visitors. This year, successful applicants will receive grants of up to $10,000. Apply by 5pm Friday 30 April.

Visit: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/community/grants/community-events-grants.

Disaster recovery payments CUMBERLAND and Parramatta residents can claim the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment if they have been affected by the recent storms and floods. Apply for the non-means tested payment of $1,000 for eligible adults and $400 for eligible children by calling 180 22 66.

3,110 new trees planted THE grounds of Westmead Hospital are set to become an urban woodland thanks to a partnership between the NSW Government, Greater Sydney Landcare Network and Landcare NSW. Westmead Hospital Chief Executive, Mr Graeme Loy joined Landcare NSW CEO, Dr Adrian Zammit and a team of volunteers to begin planting 3,110 trees for habitat and healing at the hospital site on April 7. Westmead Hospital Chief Executive Mr Graeme Loy said the new greenery will be a huge benefit to hospital staff and patients, wildlife and the wider community.

INDEX

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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Reflections of our Chamber President After three years Parramatta’s Schon Condon is handing over the baton  DI BARTOK CHON Condon finishes his threeyear term as president of Parramatta Chamber of Commerce happy with his work in promoting the interests of the business community of Sydney’s second CBD. He is particularly pleased that he and his board have lifted the profile of the chamber, so that it is consulted by governments, council and other organisations more than it has before.

“Sometimes we have been the only chamber invited to important decision-making meetings,” Mr Condon said.

So popular has Mr Condon been in the chamber, that the board was considering having him stay on for another year, but that would have required a change in the constitution.

At the moment, a president can serve only three years at a time but with Covid virtually wiping last year, there was a good enough reason to suggest that Mr Condon could do another year.

“I was pleased that the board thought of me sufficiently that they wanted me to stay another year,” Mr Condon said.

“We have achieved a lot but now it is time for me to concentrate on my business, because the job of president does take you away from your business and family.

“I am happy now to be part of the transition to another president.”

That new president will be decided at the annual general meeting of April 20.

Mr Condon said he was happy “to have a breather” but did not rule out running for the top job in three years’ time.

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Mr Condon runs Condon Associates, a financial advice company in the heart of Parramatta.

It is clear that he loves his city, and how it is growing, but is frustrated over lack of parking that affects, in particular, the Eat Street restaurants.

“If people can’t find parking in Parramatta when they come out to eat, we’re going to lose them to places like Blacktown, Norwest and other nearby centres with better parking,” Mr Condon said..

Best solution for parking “The loss of the David Jones and Horwood Pl carparks will be devastating for those businesses.”

He said the best solution would be having a large carpark on the outskirts of Parramatta, near the light rail to bring people into town.

Another bugbear is the lack of NBN in the CBD–an unbelievable scenario for a major city.

“We’re being told it will be Parramatta’s turn in six months’ time,” he said.

“Other places have had it for 10 years.

I can’t believe and can’t get a straight answer as to why we are getting it towards the end of the roll-out.”

He can only hope that after more major companies set up in Parramatta, the NBN will follow, though that has not helped businesses already there.

“Lack of the NBN has prevented some of the creative businesses, who need fast internet the most, from starting up in Parramatta,” he said.

One of Mr Condon’s greatest hopes is that Parramatta retain its character, with local businesses rather than off-shoots of businesses headquartered elsewhere.

Moving on after three years: Schon Condon.

He is pleased that businesses affected by people working from home seem to be bouncing back.

The ones that survived best are those that were innovative and delivering what people wanted, he said.

Mr Condon said he would remain an

active member of the Parramatta business community, keeping an eye on the city’s growth and promotion as the place to be for business, education and leisure.

“Parramatta has to be self-contained as a major CBD and not become a dormitory suburb,” he said.

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Drone view showing the location of the new Parramatta Pool.

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Parramatta MP, Geoff Lee with Parramatta Lortd Mayor, Bob Dwyer at the sod turning.

Building starts on new Parramatta Pool First sod turned for complex expected to complete by 2023 HERE are going to be some enjoyable summers coming up for residents of Parramatta and Cumberland council areas with work starting on the long-anticipated Parramatta Aquatic Centre and the reopening of a refurbished Wentworthville Pool.

In the same week that the first sod was turned on the $88.6M Parramatta pool complex, Wenty Pool reopened to much fanfare for swimmers that only a few years ago were facing complete closure of the old pool.

Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer was joined

by Parramatta State MP Dr Geoff Lee, and representatives from construction firm Lipman Construction at the Mays Hill site on Tuesday, May 30.

“This is a historic moment for the people of Parramatta, as work begins on one

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of the country’s best public aquatic and leisure centres in Australia’s best city,” Cr Dwyer said.

“We know the community has been eager to get back into the water, so I’m excited that City of Parramatta Council has teamed up with respected and experienced builder Lipman to ensure we deliver a first-class facility as soon as possible.”

Dr Lee said Parramatta is ready to dive into building the new aquatic centre and that this was the news that the community has been waiting for.

“Parramatta deserves a pool which caters for competition, learn-to-swim classes, recreation and relaxation. This aquatic centre will be the envy of communities all over the State. It will be a complex with versatility designed to meet the needs

of Parramatta now and in the future for decades to come,” Dr Lee said.

Expected to be completed in early 2023, the project is being co-funded by Council and the NSW Government, which is investing $38.5M from the Restart NSW Fund.

Council, on top of its initial commitment of $38.5M, is investing an extra $11.6M to increase the facility’s capacity and future-proof it to accommodate Parramatta's rapid growth.

The new 40,000 square metre aquatic and leisure centre has been designed to integrate seamlessly with the lush surrounds of Parramatta Park.

It will include a 10-lane, 50m outdoor pool; 25m indoor pool; indoor learn-toswim pool; indoor water playground; spa and sauna facilities; café; fitness centre;

multipurpose community rooms; and up to 200 parking spaces.

Solar panels will also be installed on sections of the centre’s roof, generating approximately 142,000 kilowatts of power annually, while more than 500 trees indigenous to the area will be planted.

“This is a once-in-a-generation project and we are making sure it goes the distance. We are investing more to meet the growing demands of our City,” Cr Dwyer said.

“This state-of-the art facility will be a place the people of Parramatta and Greater Sydney can enjoy for many years to come – whether to train, compete or simply to have fun with friends and family.”

The 60-year-old Parramatta Memorial Pool was controversially demolished in 2017 to make way for Bankwest Stadium.

As Wenty pool reopens after $12.4M upgrade  LAWRENCE MACHADO ESIDENTS are welcoming the re-opening of the impressive Wentworthville Memorial Swimming Centre, none more than 92-year-old Trevor Simpson, who was unable to swim since the pool closed in 2017.

However, Mr Simpson and other residents have time to use it until Anzac Day before it closes during the colder months, when numbers drop. It is to re-open during October's long weekend.

Mayor Steve Cristou officially opened the pool on Monday, March 29 in the presence of several councilors and the Federal MP for Prospect, Hugh McDermott, who had fought to save the pool.

The council spent $12.2M to upgrade the centre with a new pool, fully roofed changing rooms, children's area, a picnic spot and several shades being added.

There is a lift to allow people with disability use the 50m pool.

The mayor said the centre has been his priority since his election and he invited residents to use the centre, while their proposed swimming pool is being built.

“Our residents deserve facilities that are modern,” said Mayor Cristou, pointing out the council is looking to modernise pools across the LGA. Mr Simpson, a seventh dan jujitsu coach and a vice-president at Wenty Leagues, said he missed going to the pool because Parramatta's one was also closed.

“I have been living in Wentworthville since 1956 and have used the pool when it first opened in 1965,” said Mr Simpson, who was awarded an OAM for his services to the community.

“I really missed swimming and cannot wait to get back.”

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Trevor Simpson and wife, Marie.

Revamped Wenty Pool.

MPs supported the petition Mr Simpson and his wife of 47 years, Marie, were a part of the long community campaign to prevent the pool from being shut down by the previous council.

For Wentworthville schoolteacher Grant Hanson, the re-opening of the centre is the culmination of nearly a decade of campaigning for its survival, even spending nights distributing leaflets and posters to thousands of letter boxes in the community. He also left leaflets on the windscreens of vehicles.

“It was very frustrating but Granville MP Julia Finn took our petition to the State Parliament by after more than 10,000 signed it,” said Mr Hanson, who said he spent his own money on his relentless campaign.

Grant Hanson.

“I am happy to see it re-open because there were many plans from the council, including closing all the pools and opening one in Greystanes or upgrading the one at Merrylands to cater to all the residents.”

Mr McDermott and councillor Lisa Lake said they had campaigned to save the pool.

“We initially lost the fight before winning it because the previous council wanted to close it,” Mr McDermott said.

“It was run down and the upgrade will bring in young families and teach the residents how to swim to prevent the large number of drownings in western Sydney.”

The campaign was also supported

by Federal Parramatta MP Julie Owens and former Premier and Toongabbie MP Nathan Rees.

“The re-opening is great news for us because the council had a lot of representations by the residents to save it,” Cr Lake said. “The new change facilities, with roofs, are very welcome as this was one of the main things residents wanted.”

Wentworthville resident Robin Maine, who joined the centre when her son began swimming, praised the addition of the splash area and BBQ, saying it gives families more things to do.

There are also private cubicles for females, which councilor Suman Saha said will be beneficial to many Indian sub-continent women.

Belgravia Leisure will handle management of the centre. Centre details: https://wentworthvilleswimcentre.com.au/

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

The new Parramatta Escarpment Walk.

Parramatta escarpment boardwalk completed Pedestrians and cyclists can now enjoy 20km of off-road paths ILLIONS of pedestrians and cyclists can now enjoy more than 20km of continuous off-road paths along both sides of the Parramatta River with the completion of the new Escarpment Boardwalk.

The much-anticipated $18M project has been officially opened by City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer and Member for Parramatta Dr Geoff Lee. The impressive river-level path is a critical missing link in the Parramatta Valley Cycleway, connecting Parramatta Park to the burgeoning Melrose Park precinct and Sydney Olympic Park. Two new sets of stairs connecting the path to Stewart and Macarthur streets have also been installed.

“The new Escarpment Boardwalk is going to be a game-changer for the nearly two million people who use our riverside paths through the Parramatta CBD every year,” Cr Dwyer said.

“Since the pandemic hit, more pedestrians and cyclists than ever are accessing the Parramatta Valley Cycleway, so the opening

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of this vital link could not have come at a better time.

“The boardwalk and two new sets of stairs will halve the current travel distance, remove steep inclines, and avoid a number of road crossings – providing much safer access for all users, including students at Macarthur Girls High School.”

Located opposite the Parramatta Ferry Wharf, the project was co-funded by City of Parramatta Council and the NSW Government, through the Cycling Infrastructure Fund and Transport for NSW’s Active Transport Program.

Dr Geoff Lee said the State Government and Council have built Sydney’s best continuous pedestrian and cycleway along the Parramatta River, which includes the impressive over-water escarpment boardwalk.

“Residents will now have the opportunity to walk or ride to work from Parramatta CBD to Melrose Park without going on the road,” Dr Lee said.

The boardwalk is part of the multi-million-dollar transformation of Parramatta

Quay – the river gateway to Sydney’s Central City. This includes the redevelopment of Charles Street Square, the area adjacent to the wharf, which will have an improved riverfront walk, new garden terrace, and an amphitheatre with views over the Quay by the second half of 2022.

Facts about the project

• The boardwalk is three metres wide and nearly 500 metres long.

• It is made up of more than 250 pre-cast architectural elements, including 157 pre-cast decks., weighing several tonnes each, and 88 pre-cast beams.

• The path stands on 57 piles, which were constructed from barges on the river.

• It is designed to be submerged and withstand high-velocity floodwaters.

• More than 400 people worked on the project.

VIDEO: www.parramattatimes.com.au

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Powerhouse CEO dismisses flood concerns Contrary to “fake news” our museum will be a world class venue  DI BARTOK OWERHOUSE Parramatta CEO Lisa Havilah is more interested in the flood of excitement over the controversial $920M project than any flood-waters that may lap at its riverside approach.

After the recent devastating rains that saw Parramatta River break its banks between the ferry wharf and the site of the museum, Ms Havilah is adamant that the building and its exhibits will not be affected.

“The museum’s lower level is above the 1-in-1000 year level, so it is not affected at all,” Ms Havilah said in an interview with the Parramatta Times.

Fair enough, but what about the riverside pathway that leads from the RiverCat wharf to the museum, and presents another way for people to visit?

Would those days of torrential rain that sees the river flood and the RiverCat cancelled–not once in 1000 years but almost every year with our more frequent extreme weather events–make visiting the museum less attractive?

“No, it won’t take away the appeal of the museum being on that site as most people will travel by train,” Ms Havilah said.

“The museum will be five minutes from the Metro station and along the light rail route.

“And it will be open 24 hours, providing a great boost to Parramatta’s night-time economy.”

Powerhouse Parramatta was “the largest investment in a cultural facility by the NSW government since the Sydney Opera House”, she said.

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Artist impressions of the completed Powerhouse Museum and right, Lisa Havilah.

Strong public support Ms Havilah said, judging by people inquiring at the Powerhouse’s information centre in Parramatta Square, there was a groundswell of public support.

“There really is only a small minority against this project,” Ms Havilah said.

She said that, contrary to “fake news”, Powerhouse Parramatta would be a museum of applied arts and sciences in every sense of the word, with world-class exhibits reflecting local stories and scientific wonders.

There also would be accommodation for scientists and for school students from regional areas.

“It is a wonderful investment in Western Sydney, for people from far and wide to enjoy.”

As for the most controversial part of the project, the relocation of historic Willow Grove to an unannounced site, Ms Havilah is confident that job will “be done satisfactorily”.

Meanwhile, North Parramatta Residents Action Group has applied for a court injunction on demolition of Willow Grove pending a Land and Environment Court challenge.

The claim states that the environmental assessment failed to assess any feasible

alternatives to development including other sites.

The construction union, the CFMEU, has also placed a Green Ban on any demolition work on Willow Grove.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Last year's May Day.

May Day March comes to Parramatta HE streets of Parramatta will be running red on Saturday May 1 when the historic May Day March is held outside Sydney for the first time in its 100-plus year history.

The historic event is a traditional trade union rally and celebration of working-class struggle and pride. May Day marches are held throughout the world and were first held in Sydney in the early 1900s.

The Sydney march usually starts in Hyde Park and ends in the Domain, with various speakers entertaining the crowd.

Last year’s march was via Zoom due to Covid–and this year, tradition again will be broken with Parramatta being the setting.

And it is all because of the fight to save historic Willow Grove, the 1870’s Italianate villa set to be “relocated” to make way for the Powerhouse Parramatta.

The construction union, the CFMEU NSW, has declared a Green Ban on any demolition of Willow Grove, throwing its

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full support behind the community campaign to retain the building.

Bringing the May Day March to Parramatta is part of that campaign, CFMEU

secretary Darren Greenfield said.

The decision has the full backing of Unions NSW, with the usual May Day contingent expected to raise their banners

in Parramatta.

Mr Greenfield said that an exact route is yet to be announced, but the march will end at Willow Grove in Phillip St.

LAW & ORDER Man refused alcohol, then hits staff member ABOUT 7pm on Friday, March 19 a 66-year-old Parramatta man entered a grocery store located in North Parramatta where he selected a bottle of alcohol to purchase. The staff member at the counter refused to sell the alcohol believing the man to be intoxicated.

Another staff member approached and asked to check the male’s backpack.

The man became aggressive and hit the staff member in the face, causing his mouth to swell and bleed. The man has

been detained by witnesses until police arrived a short time later. The man was arrested and charged with assault. He is due to appear before the Paramatta Local Court on April 24, 2021.

Items fraudulently purchased with mobile phone account ON Thursday March 18, a Harris Park resident saw two new Apple iPads had been charged to her mobile phone account and sent to another address.

It was established that the resident’s spouse received a call about month pri-

or from a person claiming to be from the phone company, who stated they were entitled to a discount and asked them to provide information over the phone to verify their account details.

It would appear the information was then used to fraudulently purchase the items. Inquiries are continuing, but police want to again remind members of the public not to provide information over the phone without verifying the identity of the caller; particularly when the contact is unexpected or unsolicited.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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Blacktown Hospital Kickstarter grant recipients Chin-Yen Yeo, Dr Henry Chen, Nada Bechara and Dr Jocelyn Jiang.

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Auburn Community Dialysis Centre nurse unit manager Nelson Ubera with dialysis patient Sonia Shalala.

AI, lung cancer get funds boost  FROM WESTERN SYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT UNG cancer, spinal pain and artificial intelligence are among the topics going under the microscope thanks to $80,000 in research grants distributed

by Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

The ten ‘Kickstarter’ grants were funded by the WSLHD Research and Education Network and awarded to eight early-career researchers from Auburn, Blacktown and Westmead hospitals, drawn from allied health, medical and nursing disciplines.

WSLHD executive director of research Professor Mark McLean said the grants are designed to enable clinicians to dedicate time toward research that will make a difference for patients.

“This is an exciting time for health research in western Sydney, and it’s fantastic to see so many clinicians from a wide variety of backgrounds getting involved in research early in their careers,” Prof McLean said.

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“These start-up funds are a game changer as they enable staff to begin research that will potentially lead to a bigger project with serious investment.”

Blacktown Hospital pharmacist Chin-Yen Yeo is among three allied health professionals to receive a Kickstarter grant this year. Her research will investigate the health literacy, perspectives and experiences of inpatients prescribed antibiotic therapy at Blacktown hospital.

“Antibiotics are high-risk medications which cause significant patient harm when used in error. Many consumers overestimate the benefits but underestimate the risk of harm from antibiotic use,” Chin-Yen said.

“This is a research priority for western Sydney, where English is not the first language for more than 50 per cent of the population. It’s a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with the Patient Experience and Consumer Engagement pillars to bridge the gaps in health literacy and patient safety.

“It's really fantastic that our district recognises the value of the allied health workforce in building research capacity at western Sydney. And it’s great to see so

many allied health people with a passion for research and quality improvement.”

Blacktown Hospital cardiologist Dr Henry Chen is using new imaging technology to study the impact of different components of cardiac dysfunction in heart failure, which disproportionately affects vulnerable populations.

“For young specialists such as myself, the Kickstarter grant is an incredible opportunity to help me focus on my passion and to help all of us all to push the frontiers of our respective specialities,” Dr Chen said.

The eight funded projects are as follows:

• Chin-Yen Yeo, pharmacy. A pharmacist-led study to explore the scope and appropriateness of antibiotic information communicated to inpatients at Blacktown Hospital.

• Nada Bechara, podiatry. Studying whether vitamin C supplements improve the healing of foot ulcers and avoid the need for amputation.

• Katherine Maka, physiotherapy.

Determining the usefulness of hospital patients completing their own

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pre-assessment summary when being treated for spinal pain.

Dr Jia Liu, medical oncology.

Studying the effectiveness of using liquid biopsies to monitor for cancer recurrence in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy treatment for Stage III non-small-cell lung carcinoma (the most common form of lung cancer).

Dr Jocelyn Jiang, immunology.

Studying other ways of detecting inflammation in the fluid found in the brain and spinal cord.

Dr Jacqueline Chen, endocrinology. Using artificial intelligence to detect vertebral fractures on chest x-rays ordered for other conditions.

Dr Henry Chen, cardiology. Using new imaging technology to study the impact of different components of cardiac dysfunction in heart failure.

Nelson Ubera, Auburn Community Dialysis Centre. Studying how cognitive function affects falls and fractures in patients receiving haemodialysis.

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with COMMUNITY MIGRANT RESOURCE CENTRE

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Why diversity needs to be celebrated  PRISCELLA MABOR ICTOR Dominello, Customer Service Minister for NSW, has spoken of diversity and inclusion.

“Diversity shouldn’t just be tolerated, it needs to be celebrated. I am proud to celebrate the diversity of our great NSW state, it is arguably one of our greatest assets,” he said.

With that sentiment, it was fitting that Minister Dominello officially launched the Community Migrant Resource Centres’ new outreach office at Top Ryde Shopping Centre on March 25, a one stop shop to service the needs of multicultural and refugee communities throughout the Ryde LGA. The City of Ryde declared itself a Refugee Welcome Zone in April 2013 and CMRC broadened its geographical footprint soon after. “CMRC opened its first office in the area in 2014 and multicultural communities have been knocking on our door ever since”, says Melissa Monteiro CEO of CMRC. We have all emerged touched by events of 2020, the year where migration has become one of the first casualties of the global pandemic.

For over 300, 000 years humans have migrated thanks to a diversity of impulses (some desperate for resources, others inquiring intellectuals, while for others it was our sheer imperialist drive to conquer other territories and cultures ).

Today globalization is viewed more temperately, as feeding our need to share and learn from each other. And the digital revolution has afforded us the opportunity to share innovation at a speed never before seen.

While our migration story has been effectively in the deep freeze for over a year, it has allowed us a time of reflection to look around at our neighbours and conduct a more nuanced gaze at those who have enriched our communities over the years, and those who are newly arrived in search of opportunities for resettlement, acceptance and inclusion.

Ryde is a perfect place to track the migration wave of Sydney, and our state’s record on diversity, inclusion and entrepreneurship. It started as the third oldest European settlement in Australia after Sydney and Parramatta. Fertile soil saw the region grow into a fruit-growing mecca.

Apple orchards, were soon followed by orange, apricot and strawberry farms.

Who saw the potential for this market?

Migrants from Italy and Greece who had settled in the area in the 1920s.

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We have all emerged touched by events of 2020, the year where migration has become one of the first casualties of the global pandemic.”

– Melissa Monteriro.

The Italian story tells the story of many migrants. An early exodus of educated literati and professionals was spurred by persecution from Austria, suppressing free speech and curbing insurrection. While later migration, saw more economic levers at play.

Victor Dominello’s paternal grandparents actually settled in Ryde in the 1930s, where they established a market garden and opened a fruit shop in Eastwood.

Over the last seven years, CMRC has been supporting established Chinese and Korean communities, whilst welcoming newcomers to the area from Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Iran.

Hundreds of families and young people (many orphaned ) settled locally, after

being forced to flee their homelands due to armed conflict and persecution. CMRC staff provided that critical case work support during those all important first five years of arrival.

Since late 2016, it is now Armenian Syrian families who have settled in the area, as recipients of the special humanitarian allocation of 12, 000 visas for those fleeing the conflict in Syria and Iraq.

The stories of Ryde migration has been captured in a number of CMRC Photographic Exhibitions and Storytelling Projects held over the years. Restoration of dignity, sharing cultural intelligence and understanding diverse arts practices as a cornerstone to resettlement, is a hallmark

of the work that CMRC has undertaken in the social inclusion space.

While 2021 has underscored our basic human need for connectivity, it has also shone a light on systemic inequities for those such as refugees and asylum seekers.

Inclusion is about reducing inequality and calling out those who choose to create division and fuel prejudice.

CMRC’s Northern Region Program Manager Chrissie Ianssen and her team, are happy to share their plans for the next chapter in Ryde’s migration story.

Priscella Mabor is the Inclusion Strategy & Innovations Manager Community Migrant Resource Centre

Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation established in 1996.

CMRC is a leader in the provision of specialised support services to newly arrived migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants.

CMRC works within a community capacity building framework to encourage individuals and multicultural communities to identify and address their own issues.

It works in collaborative partnerships with a great number of agencies to provide services which have both an immediate and long term benefit for the community.

CMRC employs over 60 full time, part-time and casual multi-lingual staff.

Paramatta office Level 4, 1 Horwood Place Parramatta, NSW 2150 Ph: (02) 9687 9901 Monday – Friday: 9AM – 5PM

The Hills office

Community Hub Castle Towers Level 3, 6-14 Castle Street, Castle Hill, NSW 2154 Northern Region office

Shop 3030 Top Ryde City CNR Devlin And Blaxland Rd RYDE NSW 2112

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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with Geoff Lee MP

New images from Light Rail alignment FIRST look at the Parramatta Light Rail alignment has been revealed as the project gains momentum, with track work underway from Westmead to Carlingford.

Dr Geoff Lee, Member for Parramatta said the new artist impressions offer a glimpse of how Greater Parramatta will be revitalised by modern, frequent light rail.

“These artist impressions highlight how the light rail will integrate into the surrounding urban landscape, including a new cycling and walking path, and transform parts of Parramatta that have been crying out for attention for a very long time,” said Dr Lee. “We know construction work can be disruptive.

These images point to the light at the end of the tunnel and show it will be worth the wait.”

The artist impressions showcase a first look of the light rail at Westmead and the Cumberland Hospital Precinct. They also reveal the design of the alignment at Tramway Avenue where trams from the former Duck River tramway ran from 1883 to 1943; as well as new images of the alignment between Carlingford and Camellia, where the former T6 heavy rail line is being converted to light rail; and visions of ‘Eat Street’ – the dining precinct in the heart of Parramatta CBD. Dr Lee said the images reflect the level of community feedback that went into the design of the light rail network ahead of construction.

“These pictures tell the story of a modernised Parramatta of the future, where public transport is seamless and convenient - a vision for the community to look forward to when the Parramatta Light Rail opens in 2023,” said Dr Lee. More images of the alignment will be released in coming months.

The $2.4B Parramatta Light Rail will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia and is expected to open in 2023.

For more information, visit www.parramattalightrail.nsw.gov.au

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Light rail at Prince Alfred Square.

GEOFF LEE Delivering for 11 , 3

Light rail along James Ruse Drive Bridge.

Light rail along Lennox Bridge.

Geoff LEE MP

Member for Parramatta 02 9891 4722

parramatta@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Ground Floor, 60 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Light rail at Carlingford.

Authorised by Geoff Lee MP, Ground Floor, 60 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

WANDERING THE WARRUMBUNGLES App for little-known national treasure  DALLAS SHEWRRINGHAM HAVE always wondered why the Warrumbungle Ranges are not more famous.

They vault up out of the endless plains in north western NSW, providing an amazing sight from a distance and are even more amazing up close.

And when you are sitting in amongst them with dozens of kangaroos grazing away without a care in the world, it takes your breath away.

The trails within this park are outstanding. Shady walks along lazy creeks bubbling along followed by sudden vistas of dramatic landforms like the Breadknife and Belougery Split Rock.

I guess the lack of coverage is the fact that we have a nation with outstanding rock features like Uluru with modern five-star resorts, live shows, unique dining and an airport. The Warrumbungles have none of that…and that’s what makes it so special.

Pitch your tent or pull up your caravan and you become part of a landscape of whispering trees and brilliant nights.

In fact, the nights are so clear that the Warrumbungles is the home of an international observatory which is used by ‘star experts’ from around the world.

But it is the stunning landform that is the real star attraction.

Now visitors can now journey into an ancient volcano in Warrumbungle National Park with the help of a digital geotrail that provides a first-hand look at the molten lava, fire fountains and mud flows which once covered a large part of north west NSW up to 18 million years ago.

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The picturesque Warrumbungles.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the Warrumbungle geotrail included fascinating findings from a new scientific paper prepared by the Geological Survey of NSW and revealed for the first time, a detailed history of the region’s violent volcanic past.

Mr Barilaro said the trail could be easily downloaded through a user-friend-

ly mobile app and was one of five in a network of digital geotrails allowing visitors to experience some of the most spectacular landscapes regional NSW had to offer.

“Our geological scientists have uncovered the shape, size and lava flows of what we can determine was a shield volcano that existed after the dinosaurs became extinct and before humans walked

the earth and now people can experience it first-hand,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Thousands of visitors come to Warrumbungle each year to enjoy the site’s natural beauty and star gazing opportunities and through this new geotrail, we can now explore the remains of the huge volcano that gave rise to the local landscape.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Continued from page 16

Each trail is unique “There are trail options suited to a range of abilities including a self-drive tour, a leisurely stroll around what used to be the volcano’s main crater and an adventurous hike around the Grand High Tops Circuit with breathtaking views created by the volcano’s unique geology.”

Mr Barilaro said the NSW Government’s growing geotrail network would lift the lid on hundreds of millions of years of geological history behind the Warrumbungle Volcano, Newcastle and Port Macquarie coastlines, Mutawinji National Park and the Central Darling region in the west.

“We use handheld audio and visual guides in the world’s most famous museums and art galleries, and geotrails provide a similar experience accompanied by fresh air and unearthing facts about the rocks beneath our feet,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Each trail is unique, covering local geological highlights and historic and cultural facts that will intrigue families, encourage them to stay longer and spend with local businesses.”

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Visitors can install the GeoTours NSW app on iOS or Android phones and tablets to download the Warrumbungle Volcano, Newcastle and Port Macquarie geotrails.

About the NSW Geotrail network:

• Port Macquarie Coastline Geotrail, (launched in 2018) – shows rocks made by volcanoes, by microscopic marine creatures and by underwater gravity currents.

• Warrumbungle Volcano Geotrail – journey into an ancient volcano in Warrumbungle National Park where there is evidence of magma and what used to be the volcano’s main crater.

• Newcastle Coastline Geotrail – showcases how the Newcastle coastline has changed across 250 million years and includes facts about volcanoes, a fossilised ancient forest, as well as Australia’s split from New Zealand • Coming soon (within 12 months): • Central Darling Geotrail – includes Mungo, Kinchega and Paroo-Darling National Parks, taking visitors through geological history including an-

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cient dry lakebeds and fish fossils and details about Aboriginal culture • Mutawintji National Park Geotrail – journey through a 400 million-year-old seabed, learn about fossils and explore evidence of thousands of years of continuous Aboriginal occupancy and use of this rugged desert landscape.

CityscapeS

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr BOB DWYER

Celebrating recent local upgrades  BOB DWYER Parramatta Nights IT has been wonderful to see our community enjoy Council’s jam-packed Parramatta Nights program over the past couple of weeks. The Parramatta CBD will be filled with live music acts, open-air cinema, outdoor roller-skating rink, and carnival rides until Sunday, April 18.

All events are COVID-safe and ticketed.

Prices range from free to $10.

For more information and to book tickets, visit discoverparramatta.com/parramattanights

Council recognises the important role that seniors play in our community and these concerts are a wonderful opportunity for us all to celebrate NSW Seniors Festival in a COVID-safe way.

All residents and ratepayers 55 years and over within the Parramatta LGA are invited to reserve a spot for this free event.

For more information, visit: riversideparramatta.com.au/show/seniorsconcert/

Learn more and apply here: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/community/grants/ community-events-grants

Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer (centre) and Epping Ward Councillors Donna Davis (left) and Bill Tyrrell (right) officially opened the new playground at Edwin Ross Reserve in Carlingford.

Community Events Grants now open

Book tickets now for the City of Parramatta Seniors Festival Concerts.

Recent local upgrades

The Parramatta Nights events series is running until 18 April.

Free Seniors Festival Concerts I am looking forward to hosting the free Seniors Festival Concerts at Riverside Theatres on Monday 12 April.

Join me for a special ‘Salute to the ANZACs’ performance, showcasing the songs and stories from the World War I, World War II, and Vietnam War eras.

There have been some fantastic upgrades recently completed in our City. Last month, I was pleased to officially open the new $200,000 playground at Edwin Ross Reserve in Carlingford, alongside Epping Ward Councillors Bill Tyrrell and Donna Davis.

Next week, we will also be celebrating upgrades to John Wearn Reserve, Gallery Gardens and Dundas Park with a series of outdoor cinema nights running from 15 – 17 April. Find out more about each event and upgrade here: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/ family-fun-day-program

I am excited to announce that Council’s 2021 Community Events Grants program is now open for applications. Community groups and not-for-profits are invited to apply for a share of up to $70,000 in funding to run low-cost or free events that will help revitalise our City and attract new visitors.

It is fantastic that we can welcome back the diverse range of events that our great City is renowned for after a year of tough COVID-19 restrictions. Through this grants program, we hope to provide residents and visitors with more opportunities to connect and celebrate.

Previous events to receive funding include the Matsuri Japanese Festival, Little India Fair, Parramatta Pride Picnic, Fiji Day and Epping Carols in the Park.

If you’re organising a community event in Parramatta, I strongly encourage you to explore this grant offering. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 30 April.

Apply now for Council's Community Events Grants.

Project Update News Council publishes biannual Project Update News documents to provide our community with all of the latest information on projects happening in each ward across the Parramatta LGA. The first editions for 2021 are out now and you can read them here: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/wards/project-update-news

Council Meetings I am pleased that members of the public are once again able to attend Council Meetings in person, in line with the NSW Government’s easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Council Meetings are usually held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6.30pm. To learn more and watch Council Meetings online, please visit: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/councilmeetings You can also find my Lord Mayor’s message online on the City of Parramatta website: www.cityofparramatta.co/LMmessage Cr Bob Dwyer is the City of Parramatta Lord Mayor.

Proposed closure of Alfred Street to vehicular traffic north of River Road West, Rosehill In mid-2021, City of Parramatta is proposing to permanently close Alfred Street, north of River Road West in Rosehill to vehicular traffic for construction of the Alfred Street Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridge over the Parramatta River.

Written submissions are invited until 10am Thursday 6th May 2021. Please include your street address.

Submissions may be made: • Online at Council’s engagement portal qrco.de/alfred-street-bridge • By mail to PO Box 32 Parramatta NSW 2124, or • By email to transportplanning@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au A copy of the detailed plans is available online at qrco.de/alfred-street-bridge, via Council’s On Exhibition webpage cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/on-exhibition, and in hard copy at Parramatta library.

Any concerns and comments regarding the proposal will be considered and amendments (if required) made to the design as appropriate. The outcomes of consultation and a recommendation will be reported to the Parramatta Traffic Committee in May and in turn a subsequent Council meeting.

If you have any comments or enquires regarding the proposal, please forward submissions to the email address above or contact Council's Transport Planning Section on 9806 5632.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Message from Divisional Commander ear friend, Australians have been through a testing time recently, and while progress has been made, we still find ourselves in unfamiliar territory. The collective impact of the drought, bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated existing social issues like homelessness and financial hardship.

Countless Australians – some for the first time – have found themselves reaching out to The Salvation Army for support, and for many, the phrase “it can happen to anyone” has taken on new significance.

With unemployment, financial instability and serious impacts on mental and physical health being major issues, The Salvation Army is particularly concerned that more people are at risk of becoming homeless. We are now needed more than ever to ensure the harmful impacts of the pandemic will not have a long-lasting effect on the most vulnerable.

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While we continue to provide essential COVID-safe services to people at risk of, or experiencing homelessness, we know that the need has been steadily increasing.

Between April and December 2020, The Salvation Army’s Homelessness services assisted more than 27,000 people. For every one person you see homeless and sleeping rough, there are 13 more you don’t, making homelessness an ever-growing issue in Australia – one we are passionate about addressing.

This year we are asking the people of NSW to support the Red Shield Appeal and help those without a home find stability and security.

Please join us as together we can make a difference in the lives of Australians experiencing homelessness and leave no one in need.

Thank you and God bless, Lieutenant Colonel Miriam Gluyas NSW/ACT Divisional Commander The Salvation Army Australia

It’s raw: How hope really happens  ELIZABETH FRIAS VERY day at the new Parramatta Salvation Army, Major Kylie Collinson is stunned by raw stories of hardship faced by a section of people that is growing in her community.

“I need help to pay bills, I lost my job, I cannot afford to pay rent, I am sick and couldn’t work, my children need school uniform and shoes,” she said.

Most of us may not have experienced any of these predicaments. These are some of the reasons we mustn’t look the other way when volunteers are in our community in the month of May for the annual Red Shield Appeal.

In Western Sydney, Major Collinson says they hope to raise more than $310k to expand the Salvos’ community support programs to support people in times of crisis.

“While we are seeing disadvantaged families that regularly come for help, we also expect new people who have been put off work since the JobKeeper payment has been stopped to visit our centre at 426 Church Street,” Major Collinson said.

Based on the latest treasury data on JobKeeper recipients by postcode, the suburbs of Parramatta, Wentworthville, Granville and Westmead had 3,235 individuals on JobKeeper who ceased receiving income support from April.

Those currently receiving JobSeeker and youth allowance in the Parramatta electorate has increased to 15,488, according to the Australian Council on Social Services which is proposing an increase in the rate of unemployment benefits.

The Salvos are assisting stranded

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Each day, foreign students such as these ones pictured arrive to seek help at the Salvos on 426 Church St.

foreign students who had no way of going home since the pandemic and lost jobs by providing vouchers for food and groceries.

Woolworths has provided the Salvos with vouchers that can only be used for purchasing food and other grocery items, except alcohol and tobacco.

It varies from week to week but on average, as many as 60 come through the door daily to pick up Woolworths vouchers while the Salvo Assessment Line handles the bulk of phone calls for other types of help, Major Collinson said.

Those who have lost jobs are referred to the Salvos’ employment program, Employment Plus, to get the jobless back into the workforce or receive training to reskill for industries needing workforce.

Salvo community member Henry Laferla, 68, and Major Kylie Collinson reflect on the history of the Salvation Army depicted in the huge photo collage displayed in the foyer for all to see.

It’s a dramatic increase The Salvos Moneycare offers a free financial counselling service for individuals and families. This is available in 17 centres across Sydney.

In Western Sydney, at least 600 individual cases since last year are ongoing and are receiving support by ensuring they are being reconnected to work opportunities, receiving emergency relief and Centrelink entitlements, and learning skills how to repay their debts and manage their money for the longer term.

“We look closely at the person’s expenses and provide tips and options on reducing expenses where possible, and work on these priorities,” says Mita Mitra, Moneycare regional manager.

Those receiving JobSeeker or youth allowance of just over $44 a day under the new JobSeeker rate of $620 a fortnight would be finding it very hard to budget their money because housing rental alone takes up bulk of their weekly expenses.

The $250 a fortnight coronavirus supplement included in the JobSeeker allowance also ended in March.

“Much [of JobSeeker’s weekly budget] depend on rent which is the biggest cost so it will be very hard,” says Ms Mitra.

The Moneycare service does not provide loans but provide people experiencing financial hurdles with emergency assistance such as relief on paying energy and phone bills, Ms Mitra says.

To be able to assist more people, the Salvos’ new facilities at Parramatta are being re-purposed to raise funds from renting the spaces such as its community hall with commercial kitchen, conference room and office spaces.

“The monies we raise from renting these facilities within the new building will be used to give it back straight into helping the community and expand our services,” Major Collinson said.

“To be able to pass it onto services for the people in the community we are open to partnering with businesses and organisations in the area.”

To find out more about the Salvation Army in Parramatta, click on to https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/parramatta/ For opportunities to volunteer for the Red Shield Appeal in May please go to: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/get-involved/ red-shield-weekend/.

Major Kylie Collinson (right) and Salvo volunteer Jan Roberts (left) who has been a helping hand for decades serving up hot coffee and sweets to visitors at the new Salvo Café.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal 2021– Case for support HE Red Shield Appeal is The Salvation Army’s signature fundraising campaign and raises crucial funds for our vast network of social and community services.

The appeal is run over the months of April, May and June each year, with the Red Shield Doorknock traditionally being held on the last weekend in May (29-30 May 2021). Vulnerable Australians rely on these programs every day.

Our services range from providing shelter for the homeless, assisting families in crisis through practical support and financial counselling, to guiding people with addictions through to a clean, healthy lifestyle.

The Red Shield Appeal 2021 is seeking to raise funds and awareness around the many faces of homelessness who are often overlooked – those sleeping in cars, couch surfing or in unstable accommodation.

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Years of experience responding to crisis

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HE Salvation Army is a movement dedicated to walking alongside people experiencing hardship and injustice and we have been doing this in Australia for over 140 years.

Whether it is a large-scale crisis, like natural disaster, or an individual crisis, such as poor health, job loss, or addiction – we are there on the frontline providing

financial, practical and spiritual support.

Through simple actions like assisting someone with a roof over their head, or a warm meal and listening ear, we make a difference in people’s lives and we do this every day – right around Australia.

Without a home, a person’s ability to access and maintain employment, education, social networks and personal well-

being is severely tested. But as Australia’s largest provider of homelessness services, The Salvation Army is well-placed and experienced in addressing the needs of those at risk.

Our comprehensive wrap-around suite of services include accommodation, case management, advocacy, financial assistance, counselling, and meals, as well as

connection and referral to other specialist services.

Our goal is to raise $32M for this year’s Red Shield Appeal so we can continue to serve the most vulnerable in our communities. No matter how much you give, you will be helping fellow Australians facing hardship. Will you join us to give hope to those who need it most?

Homelessness services in Australia HE Salvation Army actively works to see an end to homelessness. To do this, we not only help those already experiencing homelessness, we also provide a support network that seeks to prevent people at risk from becoming homeless.

We deliver a vast range of services and programs throughout Australia that address the root causes of homelessness such as financial hardship, unemployment or underemployment, addiction, family and domestic violence, disasters and emergencies, and youth disengagement.

For those already experiencing homelessness, The Salvation Army offers secure accommodation and support services right across the country at over 1400 properties.

We provide crisis, transitional and long-term accommodation, refuges for women and their children, rooming houses and community housing. Our services and programs provide the wrap-around support necessary for people undergoing hardship to end the cycle of homelessness and disadvantage –but the need is great.

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The current social and economic climate has led to a steady increase in demand for homelessness services nationwide. According to government data: In the 2019-2020 financial year: • 290,500 people were assisted by homelessness services across the sector.

• 6 in 10 were at risk of homelessness.

• 4 in 10 were homeless.

• 100% increase in people seeking service in multiple sites.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Over the past 10 years, there has been a sharp rise in calls for help as well as costs in providing crisis accommodation.

On the frontline  ST. KILDA CRISIS SUPPORT SERVICES, MELBOURNE person can be in crisis at any time – not just during business hours – and when that happens, having access to a service that can provide safety and immediate care is vital.

The Salvation Army Crisis Support Services in St. Kilda incorporate the Crisis Contact Centre (CCC) – the only 24/7 statewide facility – and the Interim Support and Linkage Program (ISLP).

This service acts as a “safety net” within the current homelessness system, assisting and advocating for people in immediate crisis and who fall through the service gaps. This includes providing emergency

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accommodation assistance to people experiencing health and mental health issues and who have been discharged from hospital into homelessness; family violence risk assessment, safety planning, crisis accommodation and referral to family violence services; emergency accommodation assistance to young people; and travel assistance to safe accommodation.

“I wouldn’t wish this [homelessness] upon anyone, it’s been an absolute struggle… But I’m proud of what I’ve achieved with a bit of help. I have my place, I feel happier and I have a future now.”

- Lisa*, a 52-year-old woman supported out of homelessness and into stable accommodation through Crisis Support Services. *Names changed for privacy

Stories of homelessness  STREET2HOME, TASMANIA any people experiencing homelessness are living with significant trauma, which can lead to issues in trusting support and service providers. The Salvation Army’s Street2Home (S2H) in Hobart addresses that need.

The program helps people within the greater Hobart area who are experiencing primary homelessness. It provides swags, tents, sleeping bags, blankets, clothing and food for those who have nowhere to go. It also actively advocates to local and state governments to highlight the plight of those who are slipping through the gaps, this has resulted in an increase in the capacity of shelter accommodation across Tasmania.

Over the last few years, S2H has seen more single females and mothers with children escaping domestic violence. They are

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also seeing a younger cohort of people under eighteen who have not been seen previously.

Once a successful sheep farmer, 60-year-old Fred* became homeless due to illness and a succession of tragedies. When first contacted by the Salvos, Fred was living in his car. He had not been receiving any support for both his physical and emotional issues and in his own words, was at a “low ebb”.

FRED’S STORY Through continual engagement, Fred acknowledged he needed help. S2H linked him with a GP, a psychologist, and a room in private boarding.

Although he has come a long way, Fred still has a long journey ahead. And that is why we need your support – to ensure Fred and many others experiencing hardship like him can get the help they need to continue moving forward. *Name changed for privacy

At a glance, Street2Home: • 43% ^ – Helped 267 clients in 2019-2020 compared to 186 clients in 2018-2019 • 61% ^ – Received 6835 calls for help in 2019-2020 compared to 4230 in 2018-2019 • 18 – Actively managed approximately 18 cases each day in 2019-2020 • 23% ^ – Recorded an increase from 290 to 358 people sleeping rough in the last 12 months

• 5000 – Total incoming calls for assistance (FY19/20) • 4752 – People provided after-hours emergency accommodation (FY19/20) • 88% ^ – Increase in people needing emergency accommodation since 2010 • 32.4% ^ – Increase in total cost of providing emergency accommodation since 2010 • 266% ^ – Increase in emergency accommodation cost in FY 19/20 • $34,000 – Spent on emergency accommodation during FY19/20 • 165% ^ – Increase in crisis calls from single women with single men remaining the largest group accessing the service • 19% – Of after-hours care provided in FY19/20 was due to family violence

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

What is in need?

OUSING security has continually been on the decline across Australia.

Increasing house prices, long waiting lists for public housing and a lack of affordable rental properties have pushed many individuals and families – especially those on low incomes – to the brink.

Right now, for every person you can see who is homeless, there are 13 more that you can’t see. And this issue is only predicted to worsen due to the COVID-19 crisis.

As the country adapts to a new normal, with widespread job losses and financial instability, many Australians are facing hardship in ways no one could have foreseen.

The lifting of the moratorium on evictions and decreasing government payments is set to put undue financial pressure on the vulnerable and place them at greater risk of homelessness. And for many who were homeless before COVID-19 measures placed them in motel accommodation, a return to rough sleeping is inevitable.

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How you can help There are people hurting in every community across Australia, and the need for support is very real and extremely urgent.

In times like these, when the need is great, your support of the Red Shield Appeal can help us make a difference and give precious hope to the countless Australians doing it extremely tough.

With the pandemic clearly exposing and intensifying so many of these social issues, we have a great opportunity to see significant and long-lasting change around housing security. But there is a lot of work to be done in order to build on this momentum to end homelessness.

Your support provides the necessary resources to continue meeting vulnerable people at their point of need. Whether

through crisis accommodation or preventative programs and services, your support can help fill the gaps so that no one slips

through. The contribution you make has the power to transform countless lives for the better.

An end to homelessness is achievable, and the Salvos will continue to live and breathe this mission in our work with individuals and families experiencing hardship and crisis in communities across Australia.

We are strongly committed to walking alongside people in need, providing vital support to overcome crisis and see a pathway to life transformation. By contributing to the Red Shield Appeal, you can support the ongoing work of The Salvation Army in the face of this crisis.

Together, we can help end homelessness.

COMMITMENT TO RECONCILIATION The Salvation Army acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to elders both past and present. Our vision for reconciliation is to be a faith movement committed to equity, freedom and the righting of injustice.

SALVATIONARMY.ORG.AU To find out more please contact Major David Collinson - PR Secretary or Greg Donovan – Relationship Manager or email PRNSWACT@salvationarmy.org.au

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

“ I NEVER THOUGHT I’D BE HOMELESS.” Like many of us, Megan* never thought it would happen to her – she never imagined she would need to escape a violent relationship; she never imagined her own family would turn their backs on her; she never imagined she and her daughter would become homeless and have to live out of their car.

Right now, there are thousands of Australians like Megan* experiencing homelessness but going unnoticed. Couch surfing, living out of cars, staying in refuges or transitional housing and sleeping rough – they are often not represented in official statistics. In fact, for every person experiencing homelessness you can see, there are 13 more that you can’t see.

Together we can help stop the rise in homelessness.

Visit salvationarmy.org.au or scan the QR code *Name changed for privacy

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AW

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

2021 Parramatta Local Business Awards

ARDS MEDIA PARTNER

PRESENTED BY

Nominations for the 2021 Parramatta Local Business Awards open in June. Register your business today to be recognised! www.thebusinessawards.com.au

HistorY

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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My Cradle City dream for 2030 Local historian Gary John Carter, a little tongue in cheek, dreams about Parramatta’s future ATELINE July 2030: Destination NSW has listed Parramatta as one of the premier tourist attractors in the State.

It has a mountain of Heritage business success stories and tourist activities that have made Parramatta the place to be and visit in 2030.

Hop on the Light Rail, to the new North Parramatta precinct and visit the historic Female Factory. This place thrives with its diverse multicultural community, living in harmony with history, botanical gardens, cafes and interconnected walks and vibrant local industry.

Some think of it as the Smithsonian of Australia. Visitors and locals can now walk, or bike ride the Parramatta History trail, where they can visit museums, galleries and study centres dedicated to the Aborigines (the first Australians), the story of convicts, free settlers, and immigrants from all over the world.

There is a study centre for Aboriginal culture and local history situated on the tribal land grant site on the northeast quadrant of the North Parramatta precinct. This site abuts the newly developed native species compound, a favourite with our foreign tourists.

In the World Heritage 1821 Female Factory site, there are boutique breweries, timber and leather craft creations, cheese, chocolate and honey businesses, old trades like blacksmiths and cooking schools.

There are also movie studio sets, photo shops, a tea house and Café. In other restored heritage buildings, just outside the sandstone quarter, there is student accommodation and a new University medical faculty, plus many new software APP and Smart Tech start-ups.

They provide job start opportunities and enterprise for this new vibrant tourist and education economy.

Weekend markets in the 1821 Female Factory Yard just across the new access bridge from the World Heritage Parramatta Park, rivals the Sydney Rocks market. In the adjacent third-class convict quarters, witness a living holographic diorama’s of where we came from to the present.

This is a must-see attraction. For tourists there is also the Parramatta Gaol museum and its novel ‘Incarceration Motel’, a surreal and unique experience of being looked after by prison guards and prisoners in period dress. They also have ghost tours and a theatre restaurant. This North Parramatta precinct is an education, a job, a coffee, a chat, and a chance to succeed in a small business, it is all here.

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Our own world class choir Parramatta Park offers activities too; a punt boat ride from the Little Coogee to the Old Kings School Wharf, with a ‘First Fleet’ sailor as your river guide; or take a Segway, a bike ride, a horse, and carriage experience around the Park; From the Ferry Wharf take the Solar Train to Old Government House and the Tudor Gate Café. While in the Park go to the George Caley Botanical Gardens and the Glengarriff House Medical Museum, this is adjacent to the magnificently restored Wistaria gardens.

Visit the Amphitheatre on the Crescent, if you are lucky you may even catch a concert, opera, or a performance by Parramatta’s own world class choir.

Other walks include the River Trail, where you can stroll pass, or watch the EELS win, at the 30,000 seat Parramatta Stadium. See a show at the renovated Riverside Theatre, the entertainment centre,

opposite Parramatta’s futuristic hi-rise developments. Pass through the portals of one of the oldest bridges in Australia, the 1836 David Lennox Bridge.

See a wonderland of coloured fountains and sculptures of Aboriginal warriors and the egalitarian Governor Arthur Phillip.

This north CBD Riverside Park offers wetlands, turtle and eel ponds, children’s entertainment facilities and river view restaurants.

Here also is the now successfully redesigned, but controversial Museum of Applied Arts and Science and its Governor Brisbane Planetarium.

The wish was, for this whole site to be designed around our wonderful heritage buildings, the St Georges Terraces and Willow Grove house.

Take a stroll across the Parramatta Park Domain to the World Heritage Old Government House and catch the Heritage Bus to

some of Australia’s oldest Heritage sites, like Elizabeth Farm, Hambledon Cottage, then onto the CBD and visit the Lancer Barracks, Brislington Nursing Museum, and many other hidden history sites.

Experience cuisine from all over the world, in the restored and Famous Eat Street, or go to one of the many Night clubs or Cafes. See the Hi-rise Burramattagal Tower and the Glass House Civic centre and gallery at the Centenary Square site, opposite one of the oldest churches in Australia, Saint John’s Church.

Walk down Parramatta’s Business Highway (old George St), now renamed Mary Fitzroy Drive, from Australia’s largest legal district to the revamped Charles Street ferry wharf, and see actors dressed as British Red coats and convicts welcoming tourists to the Tourist and Business Capitol of Western Sydney, MY CRADLE CITY PARRAMATTA.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

EntertainmenT

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Movie goers enjoy the Bankwest Drive-In experience.

Sell out opening for Bankwest Drive-In T was a sell-out opening night on a perfect autumn evening at the Disney+ Drive-In at Bankwest Stadium recently.

The Stadium Drive-In was a hit community event in Western Sydney during COVID last year and it’s back bigger than ever in 2021, taking over the northern carpark for the next month.

Until April 29, the Western Sydney community will be able to watch a string of classic flicks from the comfort of their cars thanks to event promoter Pedestrian Group, working with the Bankwest Stadium team.

Fans can expect an exciting variety of films such as Deadpool, The Lion King, Jojo Rabbit, Aladdin, Titanic, The Greatest

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Showman Sing-Along, Romeo + Juliet, Pretty Woman, Moana Sing-Along and many more.

A new twist to the programming this autumn will see some fresh arrivals with the launch of Star – Disney+’s new general entertainment content brand.

Fans can expect an exciting variety of films such as Deadpool, The Lion King, Jojo Rabbit, Aladdin, Titanic, The Greatest Showman Sing-Along, Romeo + Juliet, Pretty Woman, Moana Sing-Along and many more.

Tickets are available for $45 per car.

Go to www.openaircinemas.com.au/ drive-in/sydney Bankwest Stadium CEO Daryl Kerry is

excited to welcome the wider community back to the Stadium.

“The Disney+ Drive-In was one of the truly unique event experiences of 2020 and we are delighted to have it back at Bankwest Stadium in 2021,” said Mr Kerry.

“Bankwest Stadium has quickly become part of the social fabric of Western Sydney and these events continue to show the venue as a valuable community asset.”

Rachel Tikey, Commercial Director of Pedestrian Group, said: “The continuation of Disney+ Drive-In is a testament to the success of the truly standout 'IRL' brand experiences that Pedestrian Group creates and we are delighted to have our partners Disney+ and Doordash onboard for this

second iteration of Disney+ Drive-In.” DoorDash has come on board as an exclusive food delivery partner, so ticket holders can satisfy their cravings by ordering their favourite cuisine straight to the comfort of their car.

Patrons are provided with a special code to be used on the DoorDash app to order their food, which is being delivered to the Stadium’s entry gate and collected

by Disney+ Drive-In staff and taken to the person who ordered.

Bankwest Stadium and Pedestrian Group/Openair Cinemas, in consultation with NSW Health, is operating with a commitment to a COVIDSafe environment under a full COVIDSafe Plan.

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE WESTERN SYDNEY

Published in Western Sydney Business Access | Parramatta Times | Blacktown News | www.westernpropertyguide.com.au

Parramatta CBD.

Spoilt for choice at Parramatta Swap Sydney harbor views for city river views  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM UYERS who once longed for a property with harbor views are now turning their aspirations to Parramatta and its outstanding choice of apartment living.

You can swap a harbor view for a river view and save yourself literally millions of dollars.

Recent auctions this year show everything from one bedroom “starters” to luxury penthouses and even a three storey ‘mansion in the sky’ have been available to cashed up bidders in the Parramatta area.

I reckon you can still find a bargain, although the market is constantly changing as Sydney undergoes another property boom.

A two-bedroom apartment in O’Reilly St recently sold for $452,000 while a two bedder in Harold St went for $570,000.

In Cowper St a two bed, two bath went for $465,000 and a similar property in Charles St fetched $620,000.

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So, if you can manage $500,00 to $600,000 you will buy yourself a nice apartment in a good building with at least one car space.

Three-bedroom properties are available around the $770,000 plus mark.

In North Parra’s Albert St one went for $740,000 with two bedrooms and two carparks and another very well-presented apartment in Bellevue St went for $705,000.

A good option North Parramatta is a good option, being within walking distance of the CBD, restaurants, the footy stadium and light rail.

One of the positive features of newer apartments in Parramatta compared to older areas of the inner city are the generous balconies which provide the opportunity for quality outdoor living. I discovered plenty of properties with great balconies in my research.

If you are an outdoors type person but love privacy, look for an apartment with views to the north or east if possible to avoid southerlies or the western sun.

However, if a free-standing cottage is more your idea of a great home, expect to pay a lot more. Even quite basic three bedders are going for around the $1.5m mark.

However, if you are spending that sort of money, get your bank to extend another $100,000 plus for a quality reno.

As free-standing cottages become rarer, their value will increase more in the long run, especially they are a heritage style design.

If you are new to the auction game, may I recommend that you attend a few auctions beforehand. It will give you an idea what you can buy in your price range at this exact moment in time.

While there are still agents who frame auction price expectations way lower than what the property eventually sells for, authorities are cracking down on this unscru-

“

North Parramatta is a good option, being within walking distance ofthe CBD, restaurants, the footy stadium and light rail.” pulous process. There have been a number of infringement fines for underquoting in NSW this year.

Inspectors attended 33 auctions and issued 14 infringement notices, so hopefully some agents will start to do the right thing and quote realistically.

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

100 BED WELLBEING HOTEL AT WESTMEAD

This could be the healthiest stay in Australia  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM ESTMEAD is gaining a new Travelodge Hotel which could prove to be the healthiest hotel in Australia.

The $100M health and wellbeing Travelodge Hotel at West Grove will have 100 rooms and will be closed to Westmead’s medical facilities.

It will be managed by Drill Pty Ltd Hotel at West Grove after signing a long-term management agreement with TFE Hotels.

The Travelodge will be located on the current Westmead Shopping Centre site at the gateway to Westmead’s Health and Innovation Precinct.

Drill chief executive Mark Hovey told leading web site Urban Developer the revised development application for the 2150sq m site would ensure West Grove provided the accommodation, infrastructure, retail and food and beverage services needed into the future.

“The hotel accommodation is a key component of West Grove. Drill are the first to introduce this option within the Westmead Health Precinct, so it fills an important gap within the overall district offering,” Mr Hovey said.

“At the moment, if you are family living outside of greater Sydney and your child or other family member is transferred to Westmead, your only options for hotel accommodation are 15 minutes away.

At West Grove you will be just metres away.”

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Travelodge Hotel Westmead - Exterior Day.

Travelodge Hotel Westmead - Precinct Courtyard at Night.

The Travelodge also features commercial space for healthcare businesses, specialists and co-working providers.

These include a Woolworths metro-style fresh food supermarket, a hawker style food court, a tavern, courtyard cafes, and specialist retail.

Electric car charging It will include 126 car spaces, along with end-of-trip facilities and electric vehicle charging stations.

Mr Hovey said West Grove would be a thoughtfully designed “oasis” for people

with loved ones receiving medical treatment.

Drill recently received approval for its revised plans for the 100-room health and wellbeing hotel, scaling back from a residential apartment component.

TFE Hotels’ chief executive Antony Ritch said TFE was proud to partner with Drill and introduce the Travelodge Hotels brand into Australia’s largest health and innovation precinct.

“Not only will the Travelodge Westmead debut a fresh new interior design with warm timber and earthy tones,” he said.

Shop 1035A Westpoint Blacktown 17 Patrick St Blacktown NSW 2148 and the phone number: 02 8814 9387.

“But, in partnership with the West Grove development, it will deliver longterm benefits as the thriving Westmead community continues to grow.”

Mr Ritch said the hotel would feature simple, stylish interiors throughout including the rooms, sixth level lobby, eatery and bar. One of West Grove’s central design features is a lush, landscaped courtyard space activated with restaurants, cafes and bars.

“West Grove is the future heart of the Westmead Health and Innovation Precinct for healthcare professionals as well as local and regional visitors,” Mr Hovey said.

Drill has started leasing West Grove’s healthcare space including a day surgery, large general practice and independent health consulting suites with Healthcare Property Group.

Construction of the multi-storey complex at West Grove is expected to start this year. The opening of West Grove is scheduled for Christmas 2022, with Travelodge Westmead opening early 2023.

Sources: The Urban Developer, Westmead Shopping Centre

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AutO

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

with JOHN MELLOR

Coming in for its mid-life update SsangYong gives Rexton generous power bump  CALLUM HUNTER ESPITE the ongoing uncertainty of the brand’s future, SsangYong Australia has launched its updated Rexton large SUV with the seven-seat family hauler being gifted new styling, more power and torque and increased standard equipment while the base EX trim has been dropped from the range.

As one would expect, dropping the previous range opener has driven the Rexton’s starting price up significantly from $39,990 driveaway to $47,990 with the now entry-level ELX rising in price by $1000 as part of the facelift – the flagship Ultimate has risen $2000 to now start from $54,990.

The most obvious change to the Rexton is its new aggressive front fascia with the whole arrangement centred around a completely redesigned grille and front apron.

New LED headlights and tweaked daytime running lights flank the grille in the top corners of the fascia with plenty of angles and sharp contours filling the rest of the space.

Changes have also been made at the rear with redesigned tail-lights and bumper which is now largely free of the typical black cladding found on SUVs with a set of integrated chrome exhaust tips poking through.

The rest of the Rexton’s body has been left untouched save for some updated alloy wheel designs on both the ELX and Ultimate while the interior has scored a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, overhead console and a redesigned gear lever.

Still powered by the familiar 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, SsangYong has bumped the Rexton’s peak power and torque figures by 15kW and 21Nm respectively with the mill now churning out a healthier 148kW/441Nm, putting it well and truly on par with its Japanese rivals.

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Made no impact To extract the most out of the updated engine, engineers have paired it with a new eight-speed automatic transmission – still featuring high and low-range – driving all four wheels via a selectable 4x4 system.

Fuel consumption has increased as a result of the extra grunt and new transmission combination, rising from a claimed 8.3 to 8.9 litres per 100km.

The extra shove has made no impact on the Rexton’s already class-leading braked towing capacity of 3500kg, however trailer sway control has been added to its list of standard equipment and safety gear.

On the ELX, customers score the aforementioned digital instrument cluster and redesigned gear lever as well as 18-inch alloy wheels, LED head-, fog- and tail-lights, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, TPU leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with power adjustment, heated rear seats, a leather steering wheel and cruise control.

The Ultimate steps things up considerably with 20-inch alloys, sunroof, powered tailgate, 360-degree camera, premium leather seats, heated leather steering wheel, wireless phone charging, rear zone air

conditioning, interior mood lighting, front touch sensing door handles and memory function for the driver’s seat and wing mirrors.

Standard safety gear on both variants consists of autonomous emergency braking with forward collision warning, blind spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, trailer sway control, driver’s knee airbag, tyre pressure monitoring and parking sensors front and rear while the range topper also picks up speed-sensitive steering.

The automatic locking rear differential has also been carried over on both variants.

Given it shares its ladder-frame chassis and the vast majority of its running gear with the Musso/Musso XLV pick-up, it should only be a matter of time before an updated version of the workhorse emerges brandishing a similar face and matching power outputs at the very least.

SsangYong has undergone ergone something of a resurgence so far this his year ending February with sales up 98.9 per compared to the same period last year (368 vs 185) with the Musso/Musso XLV doing the bulk of the heavy lifting (279).

The Rexton meanwhile has had a far more conservative start to the year with just 37 units sold (+5.7%).

2021 SsangYong Rexton driveaway ay pricing ELX (a) Ultimate (a)

$47,990 990 $54,990 990 0

AutO

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

31

with JOHN MELLOR

Alpina aims for the top as it debut its new 8 Series-based B8 Gran Coupe

 CALLUM HUNTER MW tuning specialist Alpina has turned its hand to the 8 Series Gran Coupe and come up with one of its most powerful models to date in the form of the new B8 Gran Coupe; a high-performance four-door coupe for those who want something a bit different to the established German heavyweights.

In classic Alpina style, the relation between the B8 and the M8 are clear for all to see with the bespoke tuning house only making the subtlest of styling changes to the elongated coupe with the biggest difference being its metallic green paint – Alpina Blue is also available.

As with all Alpina models, the brand has made some changes and applied its own unique engine mapping to the BMW powerplant, which in this case is the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 as found under the bonnet of both the B5 and XB7.

In M8 guise the bent-eight develops 460kW/750Nm; marginally more power than in the B8 (460kW vs 457kW) but far

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less torque with the latter developing an extra 50Nm (750Nm vs 800Nm).

As with its donor car, drive is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Performance-wise, the Alpina will sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds and push on to a top speed of 324km/h.

Mass of power Despite the mass of power and performance on hand, Alpina says the B8 will sip 11.9 litres of fuel per 100km on the combined cycle while emitting 270 grams of CO2.

Under the skin, the B8 Gran Coupe rides on Alpina’s tried and tested adaptive suspension system with the brand also adding its usual Comfort+ drive mode to the package to gift the B8 a more compliant ride than its BMW M counterpart.

Speed-sensitive four-wheel steering ensures a greater level of slow speed manoeuvrability with the rear axle counter-steering by up to 2.3 degrees before switching to provide enhanced stability at higher speeds by turning in the same direction as the front wheels.

Pirelli-sourced rubber encompasses the bespoke 21-inch alloy wheels, behind which peek out blue four-piston brake callipers courtesy of Brembo.

The four-pot grabbers act on Alpina’s own 395mm drilled front rotors and 398mm rear discs with the pads also coming from in-house.

Matching the exterior design, the cabin is also decidedly BMW save for a few Alpina touches here and there like the illuminated door sills, crystal glass iDrive Controller and the now familiar Walnut Anthracite high-gloss accents.

Standard equipment on the B8 is as expansive as it is on the M8 with highlights including heated multifunction sport seats, heated steering wheel, BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery, Harman Kardon surround sound system, BMW iDrive infotainment system and BMW Driving Assistant Professional.

According to Alpina, the first European deliveries of the B8 Gran Coupe will commence in July with the car flaunting a €161,200 ($A250,605) asking price.

GoAuto has contacted Alpina Australia for confirmation on the B8’s local timing.

FilM

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ISSUE 9 | April 2021

French Exit – 5 Stars Odd, charming and immensely lovable, French Exit is a triumph

rances Price (Michelle Pfeiffer) is a Manhattan socialite known as much for her acerbic wit and unusual antics as she is for the rumor that she murdered her late husband. Her expensive taste is challenged, however, when her inheritance dwindles to almost nothing.

Faced with the prospect of poverty, Frances sells what she can and ups and leaves the city, travelling with her son Malcolm (Lucas Hedges) and her cat to a friend’s apartment in Paris. There, she seems intent on whiling away what’s left of her inheritance before eventually killing herself when the money runs out.

Directed by Azazel Jacobs, French Exit is undoubtedly a polarising film. There’s no question this movie won’t be for everyone, with it’s slow pace, it’s ad hoc indulgence in the surreal and strange, and it’s Wes Anderson-esque humor.

At the same time, however, for every viewer who can’t stand it’s style, they’ll be another so in love with it as to forgive the storytelling flaws in favour of what is a cohesive and engaging vibe.

The most impressive thing about this film is without a doubt Pfeiffer’s performance. Acerbic, antagonistic, utterly classy, and truly aloof, Pfeiffer’s Frances Price is a blend of drug-addled swaying a

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la Jack Sparrow, Miranda Priestly-esque one liners, and a wardrobe that screams colour blocked French Fashion Week haul.

It’s a character one could be utterly obsessed with, and it is elevated by a performance from Pfeiffer that screams her talent from the rooftop–one that makes the Oscar snub a truly abhorrent occurrence.

Hedges performs admirably too, bringing an disquieting strangeness, stillness and acceptance to his character that counterbalances Frances’ wilder impulses. The rest of the cast then starts to take on less complex, more one-dimensional characters–Madame Reynard (Valerie Mahaffey) is the overbearing, lonely widower, Madeleine (Danielle Macdonald) is the strange, street urchin medium, and Susan (Imogen Poots) is the commitment-seeking adorer of Malcolm. Alas, all of their performances are entirely outstripped and overshadowed by Pfeiffer’s, for better or worse.

There’s a peculiar and intriguing colouring to the picture, and sense of cinematography, that almost begins to mimic some of Wes Anderson’s pieces.

That’s not a bad thing, because while the first 40 minutes of the film are relatively standard storywise, the back half of the

picture truly takes on an absurdist lens–a talking cat, and odd bunch dynamic in the flat, and the final stroll from Frances, all have Anderson-esque overtones. It is also an engagingly funny film, and there are genuine laugh out loud moments strewn throughout.

This isn’t a movie for everyone, but for those with the taste for great scriptwriting, a showstopping performance from

Michelle Pfeiffer, and slightly absurdist and witty comedy, this could be the movie of the year. French Exit is unapologetically niche, but undeniably a gorgeous, hilarious and engaging piece of cinema.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

FilM

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

33

Godzilla Vs Kong – 2 Stars Giant monsters fighting each other is let down by the hamfisted human stories interspersed throughout lene Andrews (Rebecca Hall) is a scientist in charge of working with King Kong.

They have him trapped on his island for his own safety, afraid that when Godzilla discovers there is another Titan on Earth, he will rip Kong to shreds.

Nathan Lind (Alexander Skarsgard), at the behest of an evil conglomerate led by Walter Simmons (Demian Bichir), convinces Ilene to bring Kong to Antarctica in pursuit of the Hollow Earth–a cavernous, monster-filled space in the middle of our Earth where Kong came from.

Their movement attracts the wrong kind of attention however, and it puts Godzilla on their tails. As Godzilla and Kong duke it out in the ocean, Madison Russell (Millie Bobby Brown), Bernie Hayes (Brian Tyree Henry) and Josh Valentine (Julian Dennison) are hot on the trail of a tech creation in Hong Kong– Mecha Godzilla is here, and draws the ire and rampage of both Titans.

The easiest thing to cover off about Godzilla vs Kong is what it does well–which is exactly what it says on the cover. The handful of fights between Godzilla and Kong in this film are great; giant spectacles that feel bodily, destructive and brutal.

There’s a lot of fun to be had despite the shaky physics, the ridiculous workarounds

I

to make Kong remotely a match for Godzilla, and the seemingly constantly shifting size. When these guys duke it out, it feels visceral, and you’re sitting up in your seat loving every second.

It’s a shame, then, that this movie takes 40 minutes to get to any of that. The craziest thing about this film is how insistent they are on slogging through the most laborious plotting and workarounds to get these two Titans to fight one another.

It feels like someone should have sat down with them at the start and just said “No one cares–make the monkey fight the lizard”. Instead, we get endless exposition about another evil tech company, massive logic leaps, a ridiculous C-plot around the Hollow Earth theory, and ever more garbage dumped on us. You’re slogging for most of the movie through something that, without the monster fights, would be unwatchable.

Then you’ve got the people. This franchise has always struggled with the human element of these stories–ever since the 2014 Godzilla. This film is another level though.

We don’t care one ounce about any of the characters here. Dennison is unwatchable, Tyree Henry is laden with one of the shittiest characters ever written (by someone who maybe once heard at a great distance what a podcast is).

Millie Bobby Brown eviscerates any acting bonafides her time on Stranger Things gave her, Eiza Gonzalez does nothing with the most cliche character of the film, and even Alexander Skarsgaard is phoning it in here. Only Rebecca Hall brings any credibility to her role, but then again it could just be that she seems competent when compared to an entire cast that seems to be coasting through in the lowest gear just for the paycheck.

Nothing can save this actioner from the bland betrayal of its human elements– not even these two Titans ripping each other apart. Godzilla Vs Kong is a disappointing romp.

Reviews by Jacob Richardson Creative Director | Film Focus www.filmfocusau.com

BusinesS

34

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Resilient retailers reveal solutions Survey reveals: Shopping industry to bounce back in 2021

Paul Roper, Chief Commercial Offcer at CP.

 DALLAS SHERINGHAM T’S no secret times have been the toughest on record for Parramatta’s bricks and mortar retail industry, but this sector has a proud history of bouncing back from the hardest of times.

Now retailers have revealed the solutions and support measures needed for the industry bounce back this year and beyond.

New research from a leading parcel delivery service reveals the solutions retailers believe will help the entire retail industry consolidate this year.

The findings come from an independent survey of 172 Australian retailers, commissioned by CouriersPlease (CP).

Paul Roper, Chief Commercial Officer at CP said the survey showed the retail industry had a long way to go to recovery, but the opportunity to get involved in online sales was an ideal way for a business to survive.

When CP asked retailers about their own recovery, a third said they would be able to recover to pre-pandemic levels between July and December this year.

I

Just a quarter revealed their recovery could be in July. A further 13% said their recovery would depend on restrictions lifting completely and 8% said recovery would take place after 2021.

CP then presented retailers with a list of potential solutions that could help the retail industry recover faster – including an extension of the JobKeeper scheme and tax incentives from the Government.

Make a choice CP asked retailers to choose what they think the industry needed to bounce back once social restrictions were removed. Respondents could choose multiple answers.

The majority of retailers at 42% believe an effective treatment or vaccine was needed, 34% said further Government assistance to help them pay employee salaries, such as an extension of the JobKeeper scheme; 27%t said tax incentives from the Government; and 17% believe further cashback incentives from the Government were necessary for the industry’s recovery.

One fifth of retailers said a recovery would require more cash for consumers to help boost their confidence.

Consumer confidence fell by 27% when social restrictions were enforced last year.

“The retail industry certainly has a long way to go to recovery,” Mr Roper said.

“While eCommerce has remained strong, many bricks and mortar retailers were forced to close their doors last year. The end of JobKeeper in March, a slow rollout of the NSW Government’s Dine and Discovery voucher scheme and continuing COVID cases across the country, including the recent spike in cases in Melbourne, are just a few of the factors that could lead to cautious consumer spending this year.

“I encourage these retailers to consider shifting to, or growing, their online or omnichannel offering as more Australians become comfortable with online shopping. A number of support measures remain at retailers’ disposal, including the SME Guarantee Scheme and the instant asset write-off scheme,” he said.

The full survey results, including breakdowns across organisation size and industries, can be found here: couriersplease.com.au/Portals/0/CP_Retail_Industry_White_Paper_230221.pdf

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Crosswords/Games Solutions page 36

35

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Point on the earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake 6. The man who invented the cube that became a world hit, Hungarian designer, Erno ...

9. First person to circumnavigate the world in a balloon, ... Fossett 10. New York World Series baseball team 11. China's ... Zedong 12. West African republic with Conakry as its capital and chief Atlantic port 13. Sweet sparkling wine from the Piedmont area of northern Italy 15. Soviet statesman, ... Gorbachev 16. Wave-riding 18. Geothermal springs 20. Moving ice mass (Aletsch is Europe's largest) 21. US president's country home, ... David 23. London monument that stands close to the site of the Tyburn gallows, ... Arch 24. Flightless Australian bird 27. An ancient Greek one would have competed naked!

28. UAE sheikhdom, Abu ...

29. Tennis champion, Monica ...

30. Jazz legend, Duke ...

DOWN 1. English racing town or sort of salts used as a purgative 2. Fast and furious sport involving a puck (3,6) 3. Florida swamp region 4. World champion ice dancers, Jayne ... and Christopher Dean 5. Paris boulevard leading to the Arc de Triomphe, Champs ...

6. Cricket scores 7. Dutch word for 'farmers' used to denote Afrikaans-speaking South Africans 8. American statesman noted for his efforts in establishing a cease-fire in Vietnam in 1973, Henry ...

14. Final battle at the end of the world or the movie starring Liv Tyler and Bruce Willis 15. CS Lewis Narnia tale, The ... Nephew (8'1) 17. Door-to-door (hawker) 19. Term for conjoined twins first used to describe Chang and Eng Bunker 20. Archangel generally depicted in art blowing the trumpet that will announce the second coming 22. Mausoleum Shah Jahan built to commemorate his wife, the Taj ...

25. Workers' body formed to safeguard salaries and conditions 26. Followers of Judaism

36

Games Solutions

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

TrendS

Is love passing you by?

The bad habits that may be ruining your love life  DALLAS SHERRINGHAM F you worry about love passing you by or your relationship has gone down the drain, the answer may be your own bad habits.

A million songs have been written about lost loves, broken hearts and cheating, but the three minutes of self-pity never explain why it all happened in the first place.

You see, negative self-talk and low self-esteem are two of the most common challenges people face when it comes to finding and holding on to love.

Never fear, help is here–renowned hypnotherapist Mark Stephens could be the answer to your ‘tragic’ love life.

He has developed practical techniques to help anyone, single or in a couple, break the bad habits of the past and attract healthy love into their lives.

By harnessing the power of the subconscious and changing deeply entrenched thought patterns, Mark’s hypnosis treatments can help:

I

1. Heal a broken heart.

2. Have a healthy, baggage-free relationship.

3. Attract the perfect partner.

Heal your own broken heart: “Having your heart broken can trigger a range of negative emotions, sometimes years later, that affect every part of your day-to-day life, including feelings of worthlessness, despair, self-blame, loneliness, insomnia, lack of appetite and binge eating,” Mark said.

“By accessing your subconscious, you can process your heartbreak, break those negative thoughts and behaviors and move on to live your best life.”

Mark’s top five tips for healing a broken heart are: 1. Crying: Do not underestimate the power of crying – it can be a powerful tool to help you process and move on from pain.

2. Gratitude: Practicing gratitude helps you appreciate what you have rather than focusing on what you don't have.

3. Self-love: Create positive experiences for yourself by changing the story running through your mind.

Tell yourself – ‘I am enough, I am worthy and I am loveable’.

4. Acceptance: Accepting the situation will help you let go of the pain attached to it.

5. Mindfulness: After a breakup, many people will continually

replay events over and again in their minds. Practicing mindfulness can help break this pattern, bringing your attention back to where you are and what you are doing in the present moment.

Leave your baggage at the door “Many people will unconsciously bring baggage from their last relationship into their new one, eroding it before it’s even properly begun. The key is to face the issues from your past, rather than fear them, look at them clearly and objectively and learn from them,” he said.

Mark’s top five tips for leaving your baggage at the door are: 1. Stop comparing: Break the habit of comparing your new relationship with your past one.

2. Clear emotional baggage: Learn to let go of your past so you can cre-

ate healthy space for your future.

3. Reset your thought patterns: Replace negative self-talk with positive self-reinforcement.

4. Invest in the relationship: Do this with acceptance, compassion and mutual support.

5. Meditate: Learn to think away the stress that causes those everyday conflicts.

Attract the right partner “The most important relationship is the one you have with yourself. Getting that relationship right first and not relying on others for your happiness is key to attracting the perfect partner”, Mark said.

Mark’s top three tips to attracting the right partner are: 1. Release the past: Through meditation and self-hypnosis, learn to let go of the negative emotions and

pain of previous relationships in order to create space for a healthy new one.

2. Positive self-talk: Be open to attracting a wonderful new partner and know that you deserve it.

3. Learn from past lessons: Rather than turning away from past relationship pain, look back objectively and consider what went wrong.

Use these insights to inform your choices about what you want in your next relationship and what don’t you want.

Mark has created a meditation and self-hypnosis app titled MindFree with hundreds of sessions to help users change negative thinking patterns, feel happier and make healthier choices. For more information on Mark’s hypnosis and meditation sessions visit www.mindfreeapp.com.

SporT

ISSUE 9 | April 2021

Above: The current Eels roster and below, Mitchell Moses.

Eels facing significant roster change ARRAMATTA workaholic lock Nathan Brown remains one of 16 unsigned players by the Eels for 2022.

The 28-year-old has been offered a two year, $600, 000, a season deal, $1.2M overall.

After weeks of negotiations, the Eels have withdrawn their contract offer, and discussions between Brown, his management, and the Eels, have reached a stalemate.

The Manly Sea Eagles and St George Illawarra Dragons, are keen to sign Brown.

Brown joined the Eels in 2017, after starting his NRL career with Wests Tigers in 2013 and then Souths in 2015.

So far, he has played 103 NRL games at three clubs.

With the Eels having 16 players unsigned and off contract there could be a significant roster change in 2022.

Star halfback Mitchell Moses is one of the off-contract players.

Moses is known to a major retention priority with the talented halfback wanting to remain an Eel.

P

Moses joined the club from Wests Tigers, three years ago.

While in recent days the Eels have denied interest in signing South Sydney centre Dane Gagai for next year.

Souths have told Gagai salary cap pressures will force him out of the club at the end of this year.

Gagai has played 206 NRL games and starred for Queensland at State of Origin level.

Parramatta need centres and Gagai fits the bill, with his speed and try scoring prowess.

With Michael Jennings facing suspension under the code's drug performance enhancement rules, he failed a drugs test last September, it has left the club, short on quality centre depth.

The Eels were unbeaten before their round 4 clash with Wests Tigers on Easter Monday at Stadium Australia, at Sydney Olympic Park.

In round five, the Eels face St George Illawarra Dragons, on Sunday, April 11, at 6.15pm, at Bankwest Stadium.

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